bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitators and barriers to the implementation of motivational interviewing for bullying perpetration in school settings
Authors: Pennell Donna , Campbell Marilyn , Tangen Donna , Runions Kevin , Brooks Juliet , Cross Donna
Published: December 2018

Bullying is a perplexing and persistent problem with negative consequences for all involved. Schools are assigned considerable responsibility for the management of bullying because of its prevalence amongst youth. Despite considerable efforts over decades to curtail bullying through the use of anti‐bullying policies and other school‐based interventions, the rates of young people who frequently bully has not decreased significantly. Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a relational and affirming conversational method that strengthens an individual's motivation and commitment to change, overcoming ambivalence toward the problem. The aim of the current study was to provide preliminary insight into the feasibility of incorporating MI into student service repertoires for addressing bullying. Ten staff participants from six secondary schools, who had roles in bullying intervention within their respective schools, were offered training in MI and invited to use and monitor this method in their practice as an intervention for students who perpetrate bullying. Results indicated a number factors which influenced the uptake of MI in schools. Facilitators enabling the use of MI included practitioner's professional background, administrative support, training and implementation of MI. Barriers to the use of MI included time pressure and administrative expectations, school roles and system limitations, and preconceptions and the stigma of bullying.
Identification, characterization and field testing of Brassica napus mutants producing high‐oleic oils
Authors: Bai Shuangyi , Engelen Steven , Denolf Peter , Wallis James G. , Lynch Katherine , Bengtsson Jesse D. , Van Thournout Michel , Haesendonckx Boris , Browse John
Published: December 2018

Producing healthy, high‐oleic oils and eliminating trans‐fatty acids from foods are two goals that can be addressed by reducing activity of the oleate desaturase, FAD2, in oilseeds. However, it is essential to understand the consequences of reducing FAD2 activity on the metabolism, cell biology and physiology of oilseed crop plants. Here, we translate knowledge from studies of fad2 mutants in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) to investigate the limits of non‐GMO approaches to maximize oleic acid in the seed oil of canola (Brassica napus), a species that expresses three active FAD2 isozymes. A series of hypomorphic and null mutations in the FAD2.A5 isoform were characterized in yeast (Saccharomyes cerevisiae). Then, four of these were combined with null mutations in the other two isozymes, FAD2.C5 and FAD2.C1. The resulting mutant lines contained 71–87% oleic acid in their seed oil, compared with 62% in wild‐type controls. All the mutant lines grew well in a greenhouse, but in field experiments we observed a clear demarcation in plant performance. Mutant lines containing less than 80% oleate in the seed oil were indistinguishable from wild‐type controls in growth parameters and seed oil content. By contrast, lines with more than 80% oleate in the seed oil had significantly lower seedling establishment and vigor, delayed flowering and reduced plant height at maturity. These lines also had 7–11% reductions in seed oil content. Our results extend understanding of the B. napusFAD2 isozymes and define the practical limit to increasing oil oleate content in this crop species.
Resituating post‐phenomenological geographies: Deleuze, relations and the limits of objects
Authors: Roberts Tom
Published: December 2018

Post‐phenomenology has emerged as a diverse and conceptually challenging movement within human geography, one that is now positioned at the forefront of debates concerning the more‐than‐human constitution of social and cultural life. In recent years, these conversations have been further energised through the influence of various “object‐oriented ontologies” on post‐phenomenological thinking. By questioning the ontological primacy of the intentional subject, object‐oriented approaches have enabled geographers to problematise the anthropocentricism of phenomenology's Husserlian tradition. While sympathetic to the overall spirit of these endeavours, this paper takes issue with a significant and often unacknowledged constraint placed on post‐phenomenology by object‐oriented approaches: the reduction of reality to a collection of individuated terms. By merely replacing one kind of individual (subject) with another (object), object‐oriented ontology inherits an image of thought that remains profoundly phenomenological in its privileging of individuals over relations. Turning to the work of Gilles Deleuze, this paper strives to resituate geography's post‐phenomenological critique upstream of either subject or object, focusing instead on the distinction between relations and terms. For Deleuze, to think beyond phenomenological coordinates is to affirm the irreducibility of relations to individuated terms, whatever form these terms might take. Returning to his early work on Hume, the paper explores how Deleuze's invocation to think relations as such raises important questions in terms of how geographers situate the problem of post‐phenomenology within contemporary social research. I conclude by reflecting on the practical implications of these questions for thinking beyond objects, paying particular attention to three key themes within human geography: relationality, materiality and empiricism.
Absorption, translocation and metabolism of aminocyclopyrachlor in young plants of Ipomoea purpurea and Ipomoea triloba
Authors: Silva A F M , Silva G S , Mendes K F , Giraldeli A L , Tornisielo V L , Victoria Filho R
Published: December 2018

Members of the Convolvulaceae family are known to be sensitive to aminocyclopyrachlor, although little is known about the absorption, translocation and metabolism of the herbicide in these species of weed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the absorption, translocation and metabolism of 14C‐aminocyclopyrachlor in young plants of Ipomoea purpurea and Ipomoea triloba. Assessments were performed at 3, 6, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h after treatment (HAT) for the study of absorption and translocation. Metabolism was assessed at three time points (3, 24 and 72 HAT). In terms of absorption, was observed a difference between species at the 3 and 48 HAT time points, where I. purpurea had a higher absorption of 14C‐aminocyclopyrachlor. No differences were observed between species at any other time points. Of the total absorbed herbicide, 90.9% for I. purpurea and 91.8% for I. triloba were detected on the treated leaf. I. purpurea presented higher translocation to the leaf above the treated leaf, while I. triloba showed higher translocation to the lower leaves and roots. No increase in absorption of 14C‐aminocyclopyrachlor was observed above 24 HAT for I. purpurea and above 6 HAT for I. triloba, and translocation was low (<1%) for both species in all plant parts. This suggests that post‐emergence application of aminocyclopyrachlor cannot be effective for the control of I. purpurea and I. triloba and alternative approaches are required. Nevertheless, no 14C‐aminocyclopyrachlor metabolites were observed in the studied plants, which indicated sensitivity in I. purpurea and I. triloba to the herbicide.
Hepatitis E virus infection in swine workers: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Xiangyuan , Huang Yu , Wagner Abram L. , Chen Xiangxiang , Lu Yihan
Published: December 2018

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects both humans and animals. Swine has been confirmed to be the principal natural reservoir, which raises a concern that HEV infection would be substantially increasing among swine workers. The present study calculated the pooled prevalence of IgG antibodies against HEV among swine workers and the general population in previous cross‐sectional studies. We conducted a meta‐analysis comparing the prevalence of HEV infection between swine workers and the general population, including local residents, blood donors and non‐swine workers. Through searches in three databases (PubMed and OVID in English, and CNKI in Chinese) and after study selection, a total of 32 studies from 16 countries (from 1999 through 2018) were included in the meta‐analysis. A random‐effect model was employed in the study; an I 2 statistic assessed heterogeneity, and the Egger's test detected publication bias. The comparative prevalence of anti‐HEV IgG was pooled from the studies. Compared to the general population, the prevalence ratio (PR) for swine workers was estimated to be 1.52 (95% CI 1.38–1.76) with the I 2 being 71%. No publication bias was detected (p = 0.40). A subgroup analysis further indicated increased prevalence of anti‐HEV IgG in the swine workers in Asia (PR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.35–1.64), in Europe (PR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.49–2.50) and in all five swine‐related occupations, including swine farmers, butchers, meat processors, pork retailers and veterinarians (PR ranged between 1.19 and 1.75). In summary, swine workers have a relatively higher prevalence of past HEV infection, and this finding is true across swine‐related occupations, which confirms zoonotic transmission between swine and swine workers.
Heat acclimation does not affect maximal aerobic power in thermoneutral normoxic or hypoxic conditions
Authors: Sotiridis Alexandros , Debevec Tadej , Ciuha Urša , Eiken Ola , Mekjavic Igor B.
Published: December 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Controlled‐hyperthermia heat‐acclimation protocols induce an array of thermoregulatory and cardiovascular adaptations that facilitate exercise in hot conditions. We investigated whether this ergogenic potential can be transferred to thermoneutral normoxic or hypoxic exercise conditions.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We showed that heat acclimation did not affect maximal cardiac output or maximal aerobic power in thermoneutral normoxic or hypoxic conditions. Heat acclimation augmented the sweating response in thermoneutral normoxic conditions. The cross‐adaptation theory, according to which heat acclimation could facilitate hypoxic exercise capacity, is not supported by our data.

Heat acclimation (HA) mitigates heat‐induced decrements in maximal aerobic power () and augments exercise thermoregulatory responses in the heat. Whether this beneficial effect of HA is observed in hypoxic or thermoneutral conditions remains unresolved. We explored the effects of HA on cardiorespiratory and thermoregulatory responses to exercise in normoxic, hypoxic and hot conditions. Twelve men [ 54.7(standard deviation 5.7) ml kg−1 min−1] participated in a HA protocol consisting of 10 daily 90‐min controlled‐hyperthermia (target rectal temperature, Tre = 38.5°C) exercise sessions. Before and after HA, we determined in thermoneutral normoxic (NOR), thermoneutral hypoxic (fractional inspired O2 = 13.5%; HYP) and hot (35°C, 50% relative humidity; HE) conditions in a randomized and counterbalanced order. Preceding each maximal cycling test, a 30‐min steady‐state exercise bout at 40% of the NOR peak power output was used to evaluate thermoregulatory responses. Heat acclimation induced the expected adaptations in HE: reduced Tre and submaximal heart rate, enhanced sweating response and expanded plasma volume. However, HA did not affect or maximal cardiac output (P = 0.61). The peak power output was increased post‐HA in NOR (P < 0.001) and HE (P < 0.001) by 41 ± 21 and 26 ± 22 W, respectively, but not in HYP (P = 0.14). Gross mechanical efficiency was higher (P = 0.004), whereas resting Tre and sweating thresholds were lower (P < 0.01) post‐HA across environments. Nevertheless, the gain of the sweating response decreased (P = 0.05) in HYP. In conclusion, our data do not support a beneficial cross‐over effect of HA on in normoxic or hypoxic conditions.
Closed-Form Coordinate-Free Decompositions of the Two-Dimensional Strain and Stress for Modeling Tension–Compression Dissymmetry
Authors: He Q.-C. , Shao Q.
Published: December 2018

The modeling of the different mechanical behaviors of brittle and quasi-brittle materials in tension and compression leads to partitioning of the strain (or stress) tensor into a positive part and a negative part. In this study, applying a recently proposed general method to the two-dimensional (2D) strain and stress tensors, closed-form coordinate-free expressions are obtained for their decompositions which are orthogonal in the sense of an inner product where the forth-order elastic stiffness or compliance acts as a metric. The orthogonal decompositions are given analytically and explicitly for all possible 2D elastic symmetries, i.e., isotropic, orthotropic, square, and totally anisotropic elastic materials. These results can be directly used, for example, in developing phase field methods for modeling and simulating the fracture of isotropic and anisotropic brittle and quasi-brittle materials.
Air Ventilation and Comfort in Railway Vehicles Operating in Ventilation Mode
Authors: Iranzo Alfredo , Salva José Antonio , Guerra José , Barea Gonzalo , Pino Francisco Javier
Published: December 2018

This paper presents a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis of the air and temperature distribution in a representative railway vehicle, with the objective of evaluating passengers' thermal comfort. The CFD model developed is featuring the wagon geometry in detail including air diffusers geometry, passengers, and luminaires. A set of different scenarios are studied, covering occupancy levels, state of the doors and windows (open/closed), inlet temperature, and air diffuser design. The results show a clear influence of the air supply system and design geometry on comfort, as local velocities well above 1 m/s were obtained for the original design. A new diffuser design proposed clearly improved the velocity field distribution enhancing passengers' thermal comfort. Exhaust vents are also presenting high velocities, which are significantly reduced down to 2 m/s when windows are open. It is observed that thermal comfort is not appropriate when air inlet temperature is conditioned to 19 °C, especially for the original diffuser design.
Evaluation Method for Seismic Fatigue Damage of Plant Pipeline
Authors: Inada Fumio , Sakai Michiya , Morita Ryo , Tamura Ichiro , Matsuura Shin-ichi , Saito Kiyoshi , Ohtori Yasuki
Published: December 2018

Although acceleration and cumulative absolute velocity (CAV) are used as seismic indexes, their relationship with the damage mechanism is not yet understood. In this paper, a simplified evaluation method for seismic fatigue damage, which can be used as a seismic index for screening, is derived from the stress amplitude obtained from CAV for one cycle in accordance with the velocity criterion in ASME Operation and Maintenance of Nuclear Power Plants 2012, and the linear cumulative damage due to fatigue can be obtained from the linear cumulative damage rule. To verify the performance of the method, the vibration response of a cantilever pipe is calculated for four earthquake waves, and the cumulative fatigue damage is evaluated using the rain flow method. The result is in good agreement with the value obtained by the method based on the relative response. When the response spectrum obtained by the evaluation method is considered, the value obtained by the evaluation method has a peak at the peak frequency of the ground motion, and the value decreases with increasing natural frequency above the peak frequency. A higher peak frequency of the base leads to a higher value obtained by the evaluation method.
Simultaneous Discrete Topology Optimization of Ply Orientation and Thickness for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic-Laminated Structures
Authors: Wu Chi , Gao Yunkai , Fang Jianguang , Lund Erik , Li Qing
Published: December 2018

This study developed a discrete topology optimization procedure for the simultaneous design of ply orientation and thickness for carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP)-laminated structures. A gradient-based discrete material and thickness optimization (DMTO) algorithm was developed by using casting-based explicit parameterization to suppress the intermediate void across the thickness of the laminate. A benchmark problem was first studied to compare the DMTO approach with the sequential three-phase design method using the free size, ply thickness, and stacking sequence of the laminates. Following this, the DMTO approach was applied to a practical design problem featuring a CFRP-laminated engine hood by minimizing overall compliance subject to volume-related and functional constraints under multiple load cases. To verify the optimized design, a prototype of the CFRP engine hood was created for experimental tests. The results showed that the simultaneous discrete topology optimization of ply orientation and thickness was an effective approach for the design of CFRP-laminated structures.
Designing for Trust: Understanding the Role of Agent Gender and Location on User Perceptions of Trust in Home Automation
Authors: Damen Nicole , Toh Christine
Published: December 2018

Although trust can have a positively mediating effect on information technology adoption and usage, the concept has not been extensively investigated in the home automation field. Therefore, this work is aimed at exploring the role of agent location and the gender of the agent's voice on users' perception of trust toward automation through two experimental studies (N = 8 and N = 20) and a web-based smart lock simulation. Explicit trust behavior was captured using directly observable behaviors and decisions, while implicit trust behavior was captured using detailed click-level user behaviors with the smart lock simulation as a proxy for reaction time. The results show that users displayed more explicit trusting behavior toward the system when it displayed design characteristics that were stereotype congruent (female-home and male-office) compared to stereotype incongruent systems (male-home and female-office). These results show that users carry over the social expectations and roles encountered in human-to-human relationships to interactions with simulated automated agents. These findings empirically demonstrate the influence of design characteristics on the formation of trust relationships between users and automated devices and provide a foundation for future research geared at critically examining our evolving relationship with technology.
Three-Dimensional Analysis of Scapular Kinematics During Arm Elevation in Baseball Players With Scapular Dyskinesis: Comparison of Dominant and Nondominant Arms
Authors: Park Jin-Young , Kim Junhyun , Seo Beom Ho , Yu Ho Dong , Sim Ju Hyun , Lee Jae Hyung , Oh Kyung Soo , Chung Seok Won
Published: December 2018

Background: The knowledge of 3-dimensional scapular kinematics is essential for understanding the pathological lesions of the shoulder and elbow in throwing athletes. Many studies about alterations of the resting scapular position, dynamic scapular motion, or scapular dyskinesis (SD) have been conducted, yet none of them have identified a consistent pattern of altered scapular kinematics in throwing athletes. Hypothesis/Purpose: To analyze the 3-dimensional scapular kinematics of dominant and nondominant arms in baseball players with a pathological condition of the shoulder or elbow. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Bilateral scapular positions, consisting of upward rotation (UR), superior translation (ST), internal rotation (IR), protraction (PRO), and anterior tilting (AT) with an arm at rest and at 150° forward elevation, were measured among 319 baseball players with SD using 3-dimensional computed tomography. Angular values of scapula were compared between dominant and nondominant arms with statistical analysis. Level of Evidence: Level III, diagnostic study. Results: The scapular position of dominant arms showed significantly more AT, less ST at rest and more UR and IR and less ST, PRO, and AT at 150° full forward elevation compared with the nondominant arms. The magnitude of mean change of UR, IR, PRO, and AT during arm elevation increased significantly between the paired arms (P value: UR, ST, PRO, and AT: <.001 and IR: .001). Conclusion: When compared with the nondominant arms, UR, AT, and PRO with the arm at 150° forward elevation of dominant symptomatic arms in baseball players tilted toward positive compensation, whereas IR altered toward negative decompensation. In addition, the angular increment of the scapula increased significantly in dominant symptomatic arms compared with the nondominant arms.
The Effects of Instruction Exercises on Performance and Kinetic Factors Associated With Lower-Extremity Injury in Landing After Volleyball Blocks
Authors: Rostami Anis , Letafatkar Amir , Gokeler Alli , Khaleghi Tazji Mehdi
Published: December 2018

Context: Female volleyball players are more predisposed to anterior cruciate ligament injury in comparison with their male counterparts. Recent research on anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention strategies has shown the positive results of adopting the external focus (EF) of attention in sports. Objective: To determine the effect of 6-week EF instruction exercises on performance and kinetic factors associated with lower-extremity injury in landing after the volleyball blocks of female athletes. Design: Pretest and posttest control study. Setting: University research laboratory. Participants: Thirty-two female volleyball players (18–24 y old) from the same team randomly divided into experimental (n = 16) and control (n = 16) groups. Intervention: The experimental group performed a 6-week exercise program with EF instructions. The control group continued its regular volleyball team schedule. Main Outcome Measures: To assess function, single-leg triple hop test for distance was used. A force plate was used to evaluate kinetic variables including vertical ground reaction forces, the rate of loading, and dynamic postural stability index. All data were assessed at baseline and after the intervention. Results: There was a significant increase in single-leg triple hop test (P < .05) and in the first and second peak ground reaction force, rate of loadings, dynamic postural stability index (P < .05). Conclusion: According to the results of this study, anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention programs should incorporate EF instruction exercises to enhance the kinetics and to increase athletes’ functional performance.
Roller Massage: Difference in Knee Joint Range of Motion and Pain Perception Among Experienced and Nonexperienced Individuals After Following a Prescribed Program
Authors: Cheatham Scott W. , Stull Kyle R.
Published: December 2018

Context:Roller massage (RM) is a popular myofascial intervention. To date, no research has investigated the effects of RM on experienced and nonexperienced individuals and if there are differences between a prescribed RM program and a self-preferred program.Objective:The main objective was to measure the effects of a prescribed RM program with a foam roller on knee passive range of motion (ROM) and pressure pain threshold (PPT) among experienced and nonexperienced individuals. A secondary objective was to determine if there are differences between a prescribed RM program and a self-preferred program in experienced individuals.Design:Pretest and posttest observational study.Setting:University kinesiology laboratory.Participants:A total of 60 healthy adults (age = 26 [5.3] y) were allocated into 3 groups of 20 subjects: experienced, nonexperienced, and control. The experienced and nonexperienced groups followed a prescribed 2-minute RM intervention. The control group did their own 2-minute self-preferred program.Main Outcome Measures:Knee passive ROM and PPT.Results:For the experienced and nonexperienced, the between-group analysis revealed a statistically significant difference for ROM and PPT (P < .001). Within-group analysis revealed a posttest knee passive ROM increase of 8° for experienced and 7° for the nonexperienced. For PPT, there was a posttest increase of 180 kPa for the experienced and 169 kPa for the nonexperienced. For the prescribed versus self-preferred program, the between-group analysis (experienced vs control) revealed a statistically significant difference (P < .001). The within-group analysis revealed a posttest knee passive ROM increase of 8° for the prescribed and 5° for the self-preferred program. For PPT, there was a posttest increase of 180 kPa for the prescribed program and 137 kPa for the self-preferred program.Conclusion:These findings suggest that experienced and nonexperienced individuals have similar responses to a prescribed RM program. A prescribed RM program may produce better outcomes than a self-preferred program.
Exploring Children/Adolescents With Visual Impairments’ Physical Literacy: A Preliminary Investigation of Autonomous Motivation
Authors: Brian Ali , De Meester An , Klavina Aija , Irwin J. Megan , Taunton Sally , Pennell Adam , Lieberman Lauren J.
Published: December 2018

Physical literacy refers to the confidence, competence, motivation, knowledge, and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities throughout the lifespan. Little is known regarding the physical literacy of children/adolescents with visual impairments (VIs). Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of autonomous motivation in children/adolescents with VI (N = 41) from Latvia and the United States. A secondary aim was to explore differential effects of the country regarding all variables of interest. Methods: Within this preliminary investigation, levels of perceived motor competence, competence satisfaction, and autonomous motivation were captured in children/adolescents with VI located in Latvia and the United States. Results: Competence satisfaction and perceived motor competence significantly predicted autonomous motivation regardless of location. Significant differences regarding country occurred for competence satisfaction and autonomous motivation. Discussion/Conclusion: Implications for cultivating physical literacy for children/adolescents with VI involve strategies for physical educators focusing on fostering motivation.
An IncR Plasmid Harbored by a Hypervirulent Carbapenem-Resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Strain Possesses Five Tandem Repeats of the
bla
KPC-2
::NTE
KPC
-Id Fragment
Authors: Dong Ning , Liu Lizhang , Zhang Rong , Chen Kaichao , Xie Miaomiao , Chan Edward Wai Chi , Chen Sheng
Published: December 2018

Completed sequences of three plasmids from a carbapenem-resistant hypervirulent
Klebsiella pneumoniae
isolate, SH9, were obtained. In addition to the pLVPK-like virulence-conferring plasmid (pVir-CR-HvKP_SH9), the two multidrug-resistant plasmids (pKPC-CR-HvKP4_SH9 and pCTX-M-CR-HvKP4_SH9) were predicted to originate from a single pKPC-CR-HvKP4-like multireplicon plasmid through homologous recombination.
Spreading Patterns of NDM-Producing
Enterobacteriaceae
in Clinical and Environmental Settings in Yangon, Myanmar
Authors: Sugawara Yo , Akeda Yukihiro , Hagiya Hideharu , Sakamoto Noriko , Takeuchi Dan , Shanmugakani Rathina Kumar , Motooka Daisuke , Nishi Isao , Zin Khwar Nyo , Aye Mya Mya , Myint Thuzar , Tomono Kazunori , Hamada Shigeyuki
Published: December 2018

The spread of carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
(CPE), contributing to widespread carbapenem resistance, has become a global concern. However, the specific dissemination patterns of carbapenemase genes have not been intensively investigated in developing countries, including Myanmar, where NDM-type carbapenemases are spreading in clinical settings.
A Novel, Multiple-Antigen Pneumococcal Vaccine Protects against LethalStreptococcus pneumoniaeChallenge
Authors: Chan Win-Yan , Entwisle Claire , Ercoli Giuseppe , Ramos-Sevillano Elise , McIlgorm Ann , Cecchini Paola , Bailey Christopher , Lam Oliver , Whiting Gail , Green Nicola , Goldblatt David , Wheeler Jun X. , Brown Jeremy S.
Published: December 2018

Current vaccination againstStreptococcus pneumoniaeuses vaccines based on capsular polysaccharides from selected serotypes and has led to nonvaccine serotype replacement disease. We have investigated an alternative serotype-independent approach, using multiple-antigen vaccines (MAV) prepared fromS. pneumoniaeTIGR4 lysates enriched for surface proteins by a chromatography step after culture under conditions that induce expression of heat shock proteins (Hsp; thought to be immune adjuvants).
Edwardsiella piscicida
Enters Nonphagocytic Cells via a Macropinocytosis-Involved Hybrid Mechanism
Authors: Hu Tianjian , Zhang Lingzhi , Wang Wei , Yang Dahai , Xiao Jingfan , Zhang Yuanxing , Liu Xiaohong , Liu Qin
Published: December 2018

Bacterial internalization is the first step in breaking through the host cell defense. Therefore, studying the mechanism of bacterial internalization improves the understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of bacteria. In this study, the internalization process on nonphagocytic cells by
Edwardsiella piscicida
was evaluated. Our results showed that
E. piscicida
can be internalized into nonphagocytic cells via macropinocytosis and caveolin-mediated endocytosis, and that cholesterol and dynamin are involved in this process. These results reveal a new method for inhibiting
E. piscicida
infection, providing a foundation for further studies of bacterial pathogenicity.
Exonuclease III (XthA) Enforces
In Vivo
DNA Cloning of Escherichia coli To Create Cohesive Ends
Authors: Nozaki Shingo , Niki Hironori
Published: December 2018

Cloning of a DNA fragment into a vector is one of the fundamental techniques in recombinant DNA technology. Recently, an
in vitro
recombination system for DNA cloning was shown to enable the joining of multiple DNA fragments at once. Interestingly,
E. coli
potentially assembles multiple linear DNA fragments that are introduced into the cell. Improved protocols for this
in vivo
cloning have realized a high level of usability, comparable to that by
in vitro
recombination reactions. However, the mechanism of
in vivo
cloning is highly controversial. Here, we clarified the fundamental mechanism underlying
in vivo
cloning and also constructed a strain that was optimized for
in vivo
cloning. Additionally, we streamlined the procedure of
in vivo
cloning by using a single microcentrifuge tube.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Differential Serodiagnosis between Zika and Dengue Viral Infections
Authors: Chao Day-Yu , Whitney Matthew T. , Davis Brent S. , Medina Freddy A. , Munoz Jorge L. , Chang Gwong-Jen J.
Published: December 2018

Diagnostic testing for Zika virus (ZIKV) or dengue virus (DENV) infection can be accomplished by a nucleic acid detection method; however, a negative result does not exclude infection due to the low virus titer during infection depending on the timing of sample collection. Therefore, a ZIKV- or DENV-specific serological assay is essential for the accurate diagnosis of patients and to mitigate potential severe health outcomes.
Intellectual engagement and cognitive ability in later life (the “use it or lose it” conjecture): longitudinal, prospective study
Authors: Staff Roger T , Hogan Michael J , Williams Daniel S , Whalley L J
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To examine the association between intellectual engagement and cognitive ability in later life, and determine whether the maintenance of intellectual engagement will offset age related cognitive decline.

Design

Longitudinal, prospective, observational study.

Setting

Non-clinical volunteers in late middle age (all born in 1936) living independently in northeast Scotland.

Participants

Sample of 498 volunteers who had taken part in the Scottish Mental Health Survey of 1947, from one birth year (1936).

Main outcome measures

Cognitive ability and trajectory of cognitive decline in later life. Typical intellectual engagement was measured by a questionnaire, and repeated cognitive measurements of information processing speed and verbal memory were obtained over a 15 year period (recording more than 1200 longitudinal data points for each cognitive test).

Results

Intellectual engagement was significantly associated with level of cognitive performance in later life, with each point on a 24 point scale accounting for 0.97 standardised cognitive performance (IQ-like) score, for processing speed and 0.71 points for memory (both P<0.05). Engagement in problem solving activities had the largest association with life course cognitive gains, with each point accounting for 0.43 standardised cognitive performance score, for processing speed and 0.36 points for memory (both P<0.05). However, engagement did not influence the trajectory of age related decline in cognitive performance. Engagement in intellectual stimulating activities was associated with early life ability, with correlations between engagement and childhood ability and education being 0.35 and 0.22, respectively (both P<0.01).

Conclusion

These results show that self reported engagement is not associated with the trajectory of cognitive decline in late life, but is associated with the acquisition of ability during the life course. Overall, findings suggest that high performing adults engage and those that engage more being protected from relative decline.
Conceptualising paediatric health disparities: a metanarrative systematic review and unified conceptual framework
Authors: Ridgeway Jennifer L , Wang Zhen , Finney Rutten Lila J , van Ryn Michelle , Griffin Joan M , Murad M Hassan , Asiedu Gladys B , Egginton Jason S , Beebe Timothy J
Published: December 2018

Objective

There exists a paucity of work in the development and testing of theoretical models specific to childhood health disparities even though they have been linked to the prevalence of adult health disparities including high rates of chronic disease. We conducted a systematic review and thematic analysis of existing models of health disparities specific to children to inform development of a unified conceptual framework.

Methods

We systematically reviewed articles reporting theoretical or explanatory models of disparities on a range of outcomes related to child health. We searched Ovid Medline In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and Scopus (database inception to 9 July 2015). A metanarrative approach guided the analysis process.

Results

A total of 48 studies presenting 48 models were included. This systematic review found multiple models but no consensus on one approach. However, we did discover a fair amount of overlap, such that the 48 models reviewed converged into the unified conceptual framework. The majority of models included factors in three domains: individual characteristics and behaviours (88%), healthcare providers and systems (63%), and environment/community (56%), . Only 38% of models included factors in the health and public policies domain.

Conclusions

A disease-agnostic unified conceptual framework may inform integration of existing knowledge of child health disparities and guide future research. This multilevel framework can focus attention among clinical, basic and social science research on the relationships between policy, social factors, health systems and the physical environment that impact children's health outcomes.
Effect of single family rooms for preterm infants on neurodevelopment: study protocol for a systematic review
Authors: van Veenendaal Nicole R , van der Schoor Sophie R D , Limpens Jacqueline , van Kempen Anne A M W , van Goudoever Johannes B
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Preterm infants are at an increased risk for neurodevelopmental delay. They have to endure many stressors in early life, including parent-infant separation, noise and painful procedures during hospitalisation in the highly technological environment of the modern neonatal ward. Currently, a shift is being noticed in the architectural design of neonatal wards towards single family rooms instead of the common open bay units. The influence of the hospital environment on health and specifically neurodevelopment in this vulnerable patient population remains under discussion.

Objectives

To assess the effect of single family rooms during hospitalisation primarily on neurodevelopment in preterm infants. Secondary outcome measures will be neonatal (ie, breastfeeding rates, sepsis, growth during hospital stay, length of hospital stay) and parental (ie, parental stress, satisfaction, participation, presence and self-efficacy).

Methods and analysis

The PRISMA-P 2015 (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses for Protocols 2015) 17 items checklist was used for the generation of the protocol for this review. The following PICO was formulated: Population: preterm infants with need of hospitalisation in the neonatal ward; Intervention: single family rooms; Comparison: standard neonatal care in open bay units; Outcome: neurodevelopmental outcome of infants from 9 months onwards. If at least two studies, with low or moderate risk of bias, suitable for inclusion are found a meta-analysis will be performed. If quantitative synthesis is not appropriate the data will be presented descriptively.

Dissemination plans

This will be the first review, systematically assessing the effect of single family rooms on neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants. Clinical practice could possibly be optimised to ameliorate neurodevelopment in this vulnerable patient population based on these insights. This systematic review will be published in an international peer-reviewed journal.

Registration

We registered this systematic review protocol with the PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) on 2 November 2016 (registration number: CRD42016050643).

Ethics

We will use data from patients enrolled in studies and/or trials already approved by the relevant ethical committees and therefore this systematic review requires no further permissions.
Early prediction of physical activity level 1 year after stroke: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Olsson Ola A , Persson Hanna C , Alt Murphy Margit , Sunnerhagen Katharina S
Published: December 2018

Objective

To investigate which variables present prior and early after stroke may have an impact on the level of physical activity (PA) 1 year poststroke.

Design

Prospective longitudinal cohort and logistic regression analysis.

Setting

Stroke Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Participants

117 individuals as part of the Stroke Arm Longitudinal Study (SALGOT) admitted to the stroke unit during a period of 18 months were consecutively recruited. The inclusion criteria were: first-time stroke, impaired upper extremity function, admitted to the stroke unit within 3 days since onset, local residency and ≥18 years old. The exclusion criteria were: upper extremity condition or severe multi-impairment prior to stroke, short life expectancy and non-Swedish speaking. 77 participants followed up at 1 year poststroke were included in the analysis.

Primary outcome

PA level 1 year after stroke was assessed using a 6-level Saltin-Grimby Scale, which was first dichotomised into mostly inactive or mostly active and second into low or moderate/high level of PA.

Results

Being mostly inactive 1 year after stroke could be predicted by age at stroke onset (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.13, p=0.041), functional dependency at discharge (OR 7.01, 95% CI 1.73 to 28.43, p=0.006) and prestroke PA (OR 7.46, 95% CI 1.51 to 36.82, p=0.014). Having a low level of PA 1 year after stroke could be predicted by age at stroke onset (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.21, p<0.001) and functional dependency at discharge (OR 3.62, 95% CI 1.09 to 12.04, p=0.036).

Conclusions

Previous low level of PA, older age and functional dependency all provided value in predicting low PA 1 year after stroke. These results indicate that age and simple clinical evaluations early after stroke may be useful to help clinicians identify persons at risk of being insufficiently active after stroke. Further research is needed to clarify if these findings may apply to the large population of stroke survivors.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01115348).
Interprofessional online learning for primary healthcare: findings from a scoping review
Authors: Reeves Scott , Fletcher Simon , McLoughlin Clodagh , Yim Alastair , Patel Kunal D
Published: December 2018

Objectives

This article presents the findings from a scoping review which explored the nature of interprofessional online learning in primary healthcare. The review was informed by the following questions: What is the nature of evidence on online postgraduate education for primary healthcare interprofessional teams? What learning approaches and study methods are used in this context? What is the range of reported outcomes for primary healthcare learners, their organisations and the care they deliver to patients/clients?

Setting

The review explored the global literature on interprofessional online learning in primary healthcare settings.

Results

The review found that the 23 included studies employed a range of different e-learning methods with contrasting course durations, use of theory, participant mix, approaches to accreditation and assessment of learning. Most of the included studies reported outcomes associated with learner reactions and positive changes in participant attitudes/perceptions and improvement in knowledge/skills as a result of engagement in an e-learning course. In contrast, fewer studies reported changes in participant behaviours, changes in organisational practice and improvements to patients/clients.

Conclusions

A number of educational, methodological and outcome implications are be offered. E-learning can enhance an education experience, support development, ease time constraints, overcome geographic limitations and can offer greater flexibility. However, it can also contribute to the isolation of learners and its benefits can be negated by technical problems.
Implementing a multi-modal support service model for the family caregivers of persons with age-related macular degeneration: a study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Gopinath Bamini , Craig Ashley , Kifley Annette , Liew Gerald , Bloffwitch Jaye , Vu Kim Van , Joachim Nichole , Cummins Rob , Heraghty Julie , Broady Timothy , Hayes Alison , Mitchell Paul
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness and low vision among older adults. Previous research shows a high prevalence of distress and disruption to the lifestyle of family caregivers of persons with late AMD. This supports existing evidence that caregivers are ‘hidden patients’ at risk of poor health outcomes. There is ample scope for improving the support available to caregivers, and further research should be undertaken into developing services that are tailored to the requirements of family caregivers of persons with AMD. This study aims to implement and evaluate an innovative, multi-modal support service programme that aims to empower family caregivers by improving their coping strategies, enhancing hopeful feelings such as self-efficacy and helping them make the most of available sources of social and financial support.

Methods and analysis

A randomised controlled trial consisting of 360 caregiver–patient pairs (180 in each of the intervention and wait-list control groups). The intervention group will receive the following: (1) mail-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy designed to improve psychological adjustment and adaptive coping skills; (2) telephone-delivered group counselling sessions allowing caregivers to explore the impacts of caring and share their experiences; and (3) education on available community services/resources, financial benefits and respite services. The cognitive behavioural therapy embedded in this programme is the best evaluated and widely used psychosocial intervention. The primary outcome is a reduction in caregiver burden. Secondary outcomes include improvements in caregiver mental well-being, quality of life, fatigue and self-efficacy. Economic analysis will inform whether this intervention is cost-effective and if it is feasible to roll out this service on a larger scale.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the University of Sydney human research ethics committee. Study findings will be disseminated via presentations at national/international conferences and peer-reviewed journal articles.

Trial registration number

The trial registration number is ACTRN12616001461482; pre-results.
Pathways and cost-effectiveness of routine lung cancer inpatient care in rural Anhui, China: a retrospective cohort study protocol
Authors: Shen XingRong , Diao MengJie , Lu ManMan , Feng Rui , Zhang PanPan , Jiang Tao , Wang DeBin
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Routine inpatient care (RIC) for patients with cancer forms various pathways of clinical procedures. Although most individual procedures comprising the pathways have been tested via clinical trials, little is known about the collective cost and effectiveness of the pathways as a whole. This study aims at exploring RIC pathways for patients with lung cancer from rural Anhui, China, and their determinants and economic impacts.

Methods and analysis

The study adopts a retrospective cohort design and proceeds in five steps. Step 1 defines the four main categories of study variables, including clinical procedures, direct cost and effectiveness of procedures, and factors affecting use of these procedures and their cost and effectiveness. Step 2 selects a cohort of 5000 patients with lung cancer diagnosed between 1 July 2015 and 30 June 2016 from rural Anhui by clustered random sampling. Step 3 retrieves the records of all the inpatient care episodes due to lung cancer and extracts data about RIC procedures, proximate variables (eg, Karnofsky Performance Status, Lung Function Score) of patient outcomes and related factors (eg, stage of cancer, age, gender), by two independent clinician researchers using a web-based form. Step 4 estimates the direct cost of each of the RIC procedures using micro-costing and collects data about ultimate patient outcomes (survival and progression-free survival) through a follow-up survey of patients and/or their close relatives. Step 5 analyses the data collected and explores pathways of RIC procedures and their relations with patient outcomes, costs, cost:effect ratios, and a whole range of clinical and sociodemographic factors using multivariate regression and path models.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by an authorised ethics committee of Anhui Medical University (reference number: 20170312). Findings from the study will be disseminated through conventional academic routes such as peer-reviewed publications and presentations at regional, national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN25595562.