bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terrain Modelling from Feature Primitives
Authors: Génevaux Jean‐David , Galin Eric , Peytavie Adrien , Guérin Eric , Briquet Cyril , Grosbellet François , Benes Bedrich
Published: May 2015

We introduce a compact hierarchical procedural model that combines feature‐based primitives to describe complex terrains with varying level of detail. Our model is inspired by skeletal implicit surfaces and defines the terrain elevation function by using a construction tree. Leaves represent terrain features and they are generic parametrized skeletal primitives, such as mountains, ridges, valleys, rivers, lakes or roads. Inner nodes combine the leaves and subtrees by carving, blending or warping operators. The elevation of the terrain at a given point is evaluated by traversing the tree and by combining the contributions of the primitives. The definition of the tree leaves and operators guarantees that the resulting elevation function is Lipschitz, which speeds up the sphere tracing used to render the terrain. Our model is compact and allows for the creation of large terrains with a high level o detail using a reduced set of primitives. We show the creation of different kinds of landscapes and demonstrate that our model allows to efficiently control the shape and distribution of landform features.
Neural underpinnings of the ‘agent brain’: new evidence from transcranial direct current stimulation
Authors: Cavazzana Annachiara , Penolazzi Barbara , Begliomini Chiara , Bisiacchi Patrizia Silvia
Published: May 2015

Intentional binding (IB) refers to the temporal compression between a voluntary action and its sensory effect, and it is considered an implicit measure of sense of agency (SoA), that is, the capacity to control one's own actions. IB has been thoroughly studied from a behavioural point of view but only few studies have investigated its neural underpinnings, always using the same two paradigms. Although providing evidence that the supplementary motor complex is involved, findings are still too scarce to draw definitive conclusions. The aim of the present study was to establish a causal relationship between the pre‐supplementary motor area (pre‐SMA), known for its key role in action planning and initiation, and IB by means of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Participants underwent anodal, cathodal and sham control stimulations during three separate sessions (Experiment I). Subsequently, they underwent the same stimulation protocol (Experiment II) using as control a region potentially involved in the processing of the sensory effects of voluntary action (i.e., the right primary auditory cortex for the auditory effects of action). A significant reduction in IB was found only after stimulation of the pre‐SMA, which supports the causal contribution of this prefrontal area in the perceived linkage between action and its effects. As SoA could be disrupted in many psychiatric and neurological diseases, these results have direct clinical relevance as tDCS could be successfully used in this domain in virtue of the promising advantages it offers for rehabilitation.
Anthropogenic ecosystem fragmentation drives shared and unique patterns of sexual signal divergence among three species of Bahamian mosquitofish
Authors: Giery Sean T. , Layman Craig A. , Langerhans R. Brian
Published: May 2015

When confronted with similar environmental challenges, different organisms can exhibit dissimilar phenotypic responses. Therefore, understanding patterns of phenotypic divergence for closely related species requires considering distinct evolutionary histories. Here, we investigated how a common form of human‐induced environmental alteration, habitat fragmentation, may drive phenotypic divergence among three closely related species of Bahamian mosquitofish (Gambusia spp.). Focusing on one phenotypic trait (male coloration), having a priori predictions of divergence, we tested whether populations persisting in fragmented habitats differed from those inhabiting unfragmented habitats and examined the consistency of the pattern across species. Species exhibited both shared and unique patterns of phenotypic divergence between the two types of habitats, with shared patterns representing the stronger effect. For all species, populations in fragmented habitats had fewer dorsal‐fin spots. In contrast, the magnitude and trajectory of divergence in dorsal‐fin color, a sexually selected trait, differed among species. We identified fragmentation‐mediated increased turbidity as a possible driver of these trait shifts. These results suggest that even closely related species can exhibit diverse phenotypic responses when encountering similar human‐mediated selection regimes. This element of unpredictability complicates forecasting the phenotypic responses of wild organisms faced with anthropogenic change – an important component of biological conservation and ecosystem management.
Mechanical performance of AA6181 refill friction spot welds under Lap shear tensile loading
Authors: Rosendo T. , Tier M. , Mazzaferro J. , Mazzaferro C. , Strohaecker T. R. , Dos Santos J. F.
Published: May 2015

This study investigates the fracture behaviour of refill friction spot welding welds under shear tensile loading. Overlap joints of 6181‐T4 aluminium were produced in 1.7‐mm sheets by varying the rotational speed from 1900 to 2900 rpm and the welding time from 2 to 3.4 s while keeping the plunge depth constant at 1.75 mm. After shear tensile tests, the samples were analysed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The strength of the weld and its ductile/brittle behaviour are associated with the nucleation, growth and propagation of two types of cracks: circumferential cracks and annular cracks. Welds produced with longer welding times (≥3 s) and slower rotational speeds (1900 rpm) had higher strengths, low scattering and high energy absorption prior to failure, while welds produced with short welding times (2 to 2.4 s) resulted in poor joints, especially when they also used high rotational speeds.
Invertebrate community dynamics and insect emergence in response to pool drying in a temporary river
Authors: Drummond Laura R. , McIntosh Angus R. , Larned Scott T.
Published: May 2015

Previous studies of invertebrate responses to hydrological disconnection from the flow and drying have focussed on habitats with long hydroperiods (dry slowly after disconnection, i.e. months to years). We focus here on the effects of short hydroperiods (dry rapidly after disconnection, i.e. hours to days) on river invertebrate communities and insect emergence.

We used natural scour pools in an alluvial river to measure changes in the invertebrate benthos and insect emergence during a 5‐month drought. The scour pools represented a gradient of hydroperiods (time from disconnection to complete water loss). We monitored water level and physicochemical conditions continuously. Benthic invertebrates on the bottom of each pool and aquatic insects that emerged from the surface of each pool as aerial adults were sampled at 1‐ to 7‐day intervals during connected, disconnected and dry periods. We used the data on water level to group the pools into quick‐drying and slow‐drying hydroperiod classes.

Community structure changed as pools disconnected and dried. The densities of larval Diptera were higher in the connected period than in the disconnected period, while those of larval Ephemeroptera and Trichoptera pupae were higher in the disconnected period. Taxon richness was higher in quick‐drying than in slow‐drying pools. Shannon–Wiener diversity increased as water level decreased in slow‐drying pools, but there was no detectable effect of water level on diversity in quick‐drying pools.

Total emergence of aquatic insects increased with decreasing water level in the scour pools. However, emergence rates (individuals per day) of Ephemeroptera and the numerically dominant genus Deleatidium decreased with declining water level.

Some aquatic insects did not complete development in quick‐drying pools. Benthic invertebrates that persisted in pools until complete drying were dominated by taxa with desiccation‐resistance traits.
The influence of surface soil physicochemistry on the edaphic bacterial communities in contrasting terrain types of theCentralNamibDesert
Authors: Gombeer S. , Ramond J.‐B. , Eckardt F. D. , Seely M. , Cowan D. A.
Published: May 2015

Notwithstanding, the severe environmental conditions, deserts harbour a high diversity of adapted micro‐organisms. In such oligotrophic environments, soil physicochemical characteristics play an important role in shaping indigenous microbial communities. This study investigates the edaphic bacterial communities of three contrasting desert terrain types (gravel plains, sand dunes and ephemeral rivers) with different surface geologies in the Central Namib Desert. For each site, we evaluated surface soil physicochemistries and used explorative T‐RFLPmethodology to get an indication of bacterial community diversities. While grain size was an important parameter in separating the three terrain types physicochemically and specific surface soil types could be distinguished, the desert edaphic bacterial communities displayed a high level of local spatial heterogeneity. Ten variables contributed significantly (P < 0.05) to the variance in the T‐RFLPdata sets: fine silt, medium and fine sand content,pH, S, Na, Zn, Al, V and Fe concentrations, and 40% of the total variance could be explained by these constraining variables. The results suggest that local physicochemical conditions play a significant role in shaping the bacterial structures in the Central Namib Desert and stress the importance of recording a wide variety of environmental descriptors to comprehensively assess the role of edaphic parameters in shaping microbial communities.
Does the growth response of woody plants to elevated CO2 increase with temperature? A model‐oriented meta‐analysis
Authors: Baig Sofia , Medlyn Belinda E. , Mercado Lina M. , Zaehle Sönke
Published: May 2015

The temperature dependence of the reaction kinetics of the Rubisco enzyme implies that, at the level of a chloroplast, the response of photosynthesis to rising atmospheric CO2 concentration (Ca) will increase with increasing air temperature. Vegetation models incorporating this interaction predict that the response of net primary productivity (NPP) to elevated CO2 (eCa) will increase with rising temperature and will be substantially larger in warm tropical forests than in cold boreal forests. We tested these model predictions against evidence from eCa experiments by carrying out two meta‐analyses. Firstly, we tested for an interaction effect on growth responses in factorial eCa × temperature experiments. This analysis showed a positive, but nonsignificant interaction effect (95% CI for above‐ground biomass response = −0.8, 18.0%) between eCa and temperature. Secondly, we tested field‐based eCa experiments on woody plants across the globe for a relationship between the eCa effect on plant biomass and mean annual temperature (MAT). This second analysis showed a positive but nonsignificant correlation between the eCa response and MAT. The magnitude of the interactions between CO2 and temperature found in both meta‐analyses were consistent with model predictions, even though both analyses gave nonsignificant results. Thus, we conclude that it is not possible to distinguish between the competing hypotheses of no interaction vs. an interaction based on Rubisco kinetics from the available experimental database. Experiments in a wider range of temperature zones are required. Until such experimental data are available, model predictions should aim to incorporate uncertainty about this interaction.
Quantification of glypican 3, β‐catenin and claudin‐1 protein expression in hepatoblastoma and paediatric hepatocellular carcinoma by colour deconvolution
Authors: Zhou Shengmei , Parham David M , Yung Evan , Pattengale Paul , Wang Larry
Published: May 2015

Aims

To identify an immunohistochemical panel for paediatric malignant epithelial liver tumours.

Methods and results

Forty‐five hepatoblastomas (HBs), 13 paediatric hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) and two hepatocellular malignant neoplasms not otherwise specified (NOS) were chosen for immunohistochemical staining of glypican 3 (GPC3), β‐catenin, claudin‐1, delta‐like protein (DLK), and forkhead box protein G1 (FOXG1). Immunostaining was quantitatively analysed with NIH imagej software coupled with colour deconvolution. Different subtypes of HB and HCC showed distinct staining patterns of GPC3, β‐catenin, and claudin‐1. Moreover, GPC3, β‐catenin and claudin‐1 all showed higher expression in classic HCC and embryonal HB than in fetal HB; GPC3 showed complete negativity in small‐cell undifferentiated (SCU) HB and fibrolamellar HCC (FLC); β‐catenin showed the strongest expression in SCU HB but the weakest expression in FLC. A panel of these three immunomarkers was useful for the diagnosis of hepatocellular malignant neoplasms NOS. The expression of DLK and FOXG1 was inconstant among fetal and embryonal HB and classic HCC.

Conclusions

A panel of GPC3, β‐catenin and claudin‐1 is helpful for differentiating HB subtypes and distinguishing HB from HCC.
Water‐resistant sunscreens for skin protection: an in vivo approach to the two sources of sunscreen failure to maintain UV protection on consumer skin
Authors: Puccetti G.
Published: May 2015

Synopsis

Objectives

The water resistance of sunscreen products has taken more importance for the UV protection of consumers involved in water activities and sports. The present work introduces a new in vivo approach to measure the water resistance of sunscreens on the actual skin of subjects, which can be easily applied to salt, chlorine and tap waters. The stress sources of sunscreen films on skin originate from two phenomena: high surface tension stress as the skin transits through the air/water interface and water diffusion into the film immersed in bulk water.

Methods

The water resistance of sunscreen products is measured on the forearms of subjects by means of a new layered water bath approach that physically separates both stresses. Tape strips are subsequently taken and analysed for UV‐A and UV‐B optical densities via (1) imaging for remaining filters and (2) in vitro SPF absorption spectra.

Results

Water‐resistant sunscreens generally perform well when immersed in bulk water even subjected to agitation, but they show a wide range of performances when considering their behaviour at the air/water interface. The differences are more pronounced in salt water than tap water.

Conclusions

The results confirm 2 stress origins in sunscreen exposure to water: interfacial surface tension and bulk water diffusion. Polymers bring improvements to the resistance of sunscreens to bulk water but show wide latitude in performances when subject to the water surface tension stress. Globally, a higher loss of filters is observed in the UV‐A than in the UV‐B, which is attributed to more UV‐A filter loss or degradation and thus resulting in a decreased protection in the UV‐A.
Correlation between methyl anthranilate level and percentage of pollen in Spanish citrus honey
Authors: Juan‐Borrás Marisol , Periche Angela , Domenech Eva , Escriche Isabel
Published: May 2015

The common level of methyl anthranilate (MA) in Spanish citrus honey and the correlation between this compound and the percentage of citrus pollen (sometimes underrepresented) are evaluated. The MA analysis methodology was validated before analysing the honeys (harvested in 2011 and 2012), which were characterised by pollen, MA, hydroxymethylfurfural, electrical conductivity, moisture and colour. Pollen ranged 1–88% and MA 0.5–5.9 mg kg−1, and there was no quantitative correlation between both. However, significant correlations with moderate Pearson coefficients were observed: MA/electrical conductivity (−0.678); MA/colour (−0.559); pollen/electrical conductivity (−0.553); and pollen/colour (−0.556). 89.2% of samples from 2011 and 95.4% from 2012 had the required level of citrus pollen (at least 10%), although only 53.5% and 61.4%, respectively, had the commercially required level of MA (2 mg kg−1). Only about half of the samples satisfied both parameters. The MA value should be recommended only when the honey has an unexpectedly low percentage of citrus pollen, and after assessing organoleptic and physicochemical parameters.
Does Where I Live Affect Whether I Apply? The Contextual Determinants of Applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
Authors: Wong Tom K. , García Angela S.
Published: May 2015

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides temporary relief from deportation and legal work authorization for eligible undocumented youth in the United States. This study investigates the factors that help or hinder undocumented youth in applying for DACA. We focus on contexts of reception to understand the determinants of DACA applications, as studies of previous legalization programs indicate that the communities in which immigrants live help shape application decisions. Our analysis shows that more immigrant-serving organizations in a state translate into more applications, that DACA implementation rates are not statistically significantly lower in states with hostile policy climates, and that socioeconomic factors are most significantly related to DACA applications. In identifying the collective factors that influence applying to DACA, we demonstrate that the structural opportunities and barriers present in receiving locales shape undocumented youths’ decisions to regularize their immigration status, which has significant implications for their resulting incorporation trajectories.
Migration Decisions, Acculturation, and Overweight among Asian and Latino Immigrant Adults in the United States
Authors: Gorman Bridget K. , Novoa Cynthia , Kimbro Rachel Tolbert
Published: May 2015

Using the 2002–2003 National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS), we examine relationships between acculturation, migration decisions, and overweight among Latino and Asian immigrants. Pooled logistic regression models showed no evidence that acculturation and migration decisions were related to overweight among Asians, but models for Latinos indicated that aspects of acculturation (duration of US residence and English proficiency) and migration decisions (moving to find a job) were significantly associated with overweight status. However, interaction models also highlighted the gendered nature of the acculturation–weight relationship, such that country-of-origin ties can have different implications for the overweight status of male and female immigrants.
The Immigrant Advantage in Adolescent Educational Expectations
Authors: Feliciano Cynthia , Lanuza Yader R.
Published: May 2015

Previous research has shown uniquely high expectations among children of immigrants. However, existing studies have not focused on why children of immigrants have an expectations advantage over their native-born counterparts or if this has changed over time. This study shows that an immigrant advantage in graduate school expectations persists among adolescent children of immigrants today. Regression analyses reveal that this advantage is largely explained by higher parental expectations, greater interest in school, and foreign language use in early childhood. We argue that these factors can be conceptualized as forms of cultural capital stemming from unique aspects of the immigrant experience that are common across immigrant families.
The Relationships of Coping, Negative Thinking, Life Satisfaction, Social Support, and Selected Demographics With Anxiety of Young Adult College Students
Authors: Mahmoud Jihan S. R. , Staten Ruth “Topsy” , Lennie Terry A. , Hall Lynne A.
Published: May 2015

Problem

Understanding young adults' anxiety requires applying a multidimensional approach to assess the psychosocial, behavioral, and cognitive aspects of this phenomenon.

Methods

A hypothesized model of the relationships among coping style, thinking style, life satisfaction, social support, and selected demographics and anxiety among college students was tested using path analysis. A total of 257 undergraduate students aged 18–24 years completed an online survey. The independent variables were measured using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Brief Students' Multidimensional Life Satisfaction Scale, the Brief COPE Inventory, the Positive Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire, and the Cognition Checklist‐Anxiety. The outcome, anxiety, was measured using the Anxiety subscale of the 21‐item Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale.

Findings

Only negative thinking and maladaptive coping had a direct relationship with anxiety. Negative thinking was the strongest predictor of both maladaptive coping and anxiety.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that helping undergraduates manage their anxiety by reducing their negative thinking is critical. Designing and testing interventions to decrease negative thinking in college students is recommended for future research.
Executive Pay, Innovation, and Risk‐Taking
Authors: Laux Volker
Published: May 2015

This paper analyzes the optimal equity pay mix in a setting in which executives face career concerns and must be motivated to search for innovative investment ideas and to make appropriate decisions regarding whether to pursue the uncovered idea. I show that, depending on the value of the firm's potential growth opportunities and the CEO's concern about being fired, the CEO is either tempted to overinvest in risky ideas (excessive risk‐taking) or underinvest in risky ideas (excessive conservatism). The optimal pay package consists of stock options, to encourage the discovery of innovative ideas, and either restricted stock, to combat excessive risk‐taking, or severance pay, to combat excessive conservatism. The model provides new empirical predictions relating executive pay arrangements to the importance of innovation and career concerns and analyzes how the change in the economic environment caused by the current financial crisis might change the optimal mix of stock options, restricted stock, and severance pay.
Unbundling Technology Adoption and tfp at the Firm Level: Do Intangibles Matter?
Authors: Battisti Michele , Belloc Filippo , Del Gatto Massimo
Published: May 2015

We use a panel of European firms to investigate the relationship between intangible assets and productivity. We distinguish between total factor productivity (tfp) and technology adoption, whereas standard estimations consider only a notion of productivity that conflates the two effects. Although we are unable to address simultaneity, we allow for the existence of multiple technologies within sectors through a mixture model approach. We find that intangible assets have nonnegligible effects that both push firms toward better technologies (technology adoption effects) and allow for more efficient exploitation of a given technology (tfp effects).
Epitheliocystis in lake trout Salvelinus namaycush (Walbaum) is associated with a β‐proteobacteria
Authors: Contador E , Methner P , Ryerse I , Huber P , Lillie B N , Frasca S , Lumsden J S
Published: May 2015

Lake trout Salvelinus namaycush (Walbaum) raised for stocking experienced yearly (2011–13) winter epizootics of epitheliocystis. Affected fish were dispersed on the bottom of the tank, had decreased feed and fright response, and mortality often reached 40%. Peak mortality occurred within 3 weeks of the appearance of clinical signs, and outbreaks typically lasted 6 weeks. Affected fish had no gross lesions but histologically had branchial epithelial necrosis and lamellar hyperplasia, with small to large numbers of scattered epithelial cells containing 10‐ to 20‐μm inclusions. A longitudinal study was undertaken of one annual outbreak, and lamellar hyperplasia was most closely associated with mortality. The number of inclusions was statistically greater (P < 0.05) before and during peak mortality, but inclusions were present in low numbers before clinical signs occurred. Results of histochemical staining, immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy supported the presence of a β‐proteobacteria rather than a Chlamydiales bacterium within inclusions. PCR primers to identify Chlamydiales did not give consistent results. However, the use of universal 16S rDNA bacterial primers in conjunction with laser capture microdissection of inclusions demonstrated that a β‐proteobacteria was consistently associated with affected gills and is more likely the cause of the disease in lake trout.
Nature and Extent of External‐Cause Deaths of Nursing Home Residents in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Ibrahim Joseph E. , Murphy Briony J. , Bugeja Lyndal , Ranson David
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To describe the nature and extent of external‐cause deaths of residents of nursing homes in Victoria, Australia.

Design

A retrospective cohort study of all decedents using routinely collected data contained within the National Coronial Information System.

Setting

Accredited nursing homes in Victoria.

Participants

Nursing home residents who had died from external causes and whose deaths were reported to the Coroners Court between July 1, 2000, and December 31, 2012.

Measurements

Basic descriptive analysis was conducted to measure frequencies and proportion of exposures within each outcome group, and rates were calculated using population data.

Results

One thousand two hundred ninety‐six external cause deaths of nursing home residents were identified. Deaths were due to falls (n = 1,155, 89.1%), choking (n = 89, 6.9%), suicide (n = 17, 1.3%), complications of clinical care (n = 8, 0.6%) and resident‐on‐resident assault (n = 7, 0.5%). Deaths occurred more frequently in women (n = 814, 62.8%), in keeping with the sex distribution in nursing homes, and residents aged 85 and older (n = 923, 71.2%). The number of inquests held to investigate a death as a matter of public interest was small (n = 24, 1.9%).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of nursing home resident deaths are from external causes and are potentially preventable. A shift in community attitudes is required toward an understanding that premature death of a resident from injury is not a natural part of life.
Cyclic fatigue of two different single files with varying kinematics in a simulated double‐curved canal
Authors: Neelakantan Prasanna , Reddy Pallavi , Gutmann James L.
Published: May 2015

Objective

To evaluate and compare the cyclic fatigue of a rotary (One Shape) and reciprocating (Reciproc) single file system in a simulated S‐shaped canal in static and dynamic models.

Methods

The instruments (n = 50 per instrument) were tested in a custom‐made device under static (n = 25) and dynamic loads (n = 25) to determine the number of cycles to fracture (NCF). The length of the fractured segments was also measured. Cyclic fatigue data were analyzed by one‐way analysis of variance and Tukey honestly significantly different tests, while the data recorded for the fractured fragment lengths were compared using Student's t‐test with the level of significance set at 0.05.

Results

The fatigue life of Reciproc was significantly higher in the static (coronal curvature: 717.60 ± 45.32 NCF; apical curvature: 621.80 ± 60.15 NCF) and dynamic models (coronal curvature: 972.40 ± 54.30 NCF, apical curvature: 897.70 ± 47.10 NCF) as compared with One Shape (P < 0.05). The fatigue life was significantly prolonged in the dynamic model for Reciproc (P < 0.05) as compared to One Shape (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of the present study showed that the single file reciprocating system (Reciproc) had a longer fatigue life than the single file rotary system (One Shape).
Industrial Ecosystems and Food Webs: An Expansion and Update of Existing Data for Eco‐Industrial Parks and Understanding the Ecological Food Webs They Wish to Mimic
Authors: Layton Astrid , Bras Bert , Weissburg Marc
Published: May 2015

Cyclical industrial networks are becoming highly desirable for their efficient use of resources and capital. Progress toward this ideal can be enhanced by mimicking the structure of naturally sustainable ecological food webs (FWs). The structures of cyclic industrial networks, sometimes known as eco‐industrial parks (EIPs), are compared to FWs using a variety of important structural ecological parameters. This comparison uses a comprehensive data set of 144 FWs that provides a more ecologically correct understanding of how FWs are organized than previous efforts. In conjunction, an expanded data set of 48 EIPs gives new insights into similarities and differences between the two network types. The new information shows that, at best, current EIPs are most similar to those FWs that lack the components that create a biologically desirable cyclical structure. We propose that FWs collected from 1993 onward should be used in comparisons with EIPs, given that these networks are much more likely to include important network functions that directly affect the structure. We also propose that the metrics used in an ecological analysis of EIPs be calculated from an FW matrix, as opposed to a community matrix, which, to this point, has been widely used. These new insights into the design of ecologically inspired industrial networks clarify the path toward superior material and energy cycling for environmental and financial success.
Aberration‐corrected STEM for atomic‐resolution imaging and analysis
Authors: KRIVANEK O.L. , LOVEJOY T.C. , DELLBY N.
Published: May 2015

Aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopes are able to form electron beams smaller than 100 pm, which is about half the size of an average atom. Probing materials with such beams leads to atomic‐resolution images, electron energy loss and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra obtained from single atomic columns and even single atoms, and atomic‐resolution elemental maps. We review briefly how such electron beams came about, and show examples of applications. We also summarize recent developments that are propelling aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopes in new directions, such as complete control of geometric aberration up to fifth order, and ultra‐high‐energy resolution EELS that is allowing vibrational spectroscopy to be carried out in the electron microscope.
Finding privacy from a public death: a qualitative exploration of how a dedicated space for end‐of‐life care in an acute hospital impacts on dying patients and their families
Authors: Slatyer Susan , Pienaar Catherine , Williams Anne M. , Proctor Karen , Hewitt Laura
Published: May 2015

Aims and objectives

To explore the experiences and perceptions of hospital staff caring for dying patients in a dedicated patient/family room (named Lotus Room).

Background

Dying in hospital is a common outcome for people across the world. However, noise and activity in acute environments present barriers to quality end‐of‐life care. This is of concern because care provided to dying patients has been shown to affect both the patients and the bereaved families.

Design

A qualitative descriptive approach was used.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 multidisciplinary staff and seven families provided information through an investigator‐developed instrument.

Results

Qualitative data analysis generated three categories describing: Dying in an hospital; The Lotus Room; and the Outcomes for patients and families. The Lotus Room was seen as a large, private and, ultimately, safe space for patients and families within the public hospital environment. Family feedback supported staff perspectives that the Lotus Room facilitated family presence and communication.

Conclusions

The privacy afforded by the Lotus Room within this acute hospital provided benefits for the dying patients and grieving families. Improved outcomes included a peaceful death for patients, which may have assisted the family with their bereavement.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study provides evidence of how the physical environment can address well‐established barriers to quality end‐of‐life care in acute hospitals.
Nurses' views regarding implementing advance care planning for older people: a systematic review and synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Ke Li‐Shan , Huang Xiaoyan , O'Connor Margaret , Lee Susan
Published: May 2015

Aims and objectives

To explore nurses' views regarding implementing advance care planning for older people.

Background

Advance care planning is recommended as a way for older people to discuss their future care with family members and health professionals. Nurses play key roles in the process of advance care planning, including ensuring that patients are informed of their rights and that decisions are known to, and respected by, the health care team. Thus, understanding of nurses' experiences and perspectives regarding implementing advance care planning for older people is a significant topic for review.

Design

Qualitative meta‐synthesis.

Methods

Four databases including CINAHL plus, Medline [EBSCOhost], EMBASE, and PsycINFO were searched, and 1844 articles were initially screened. Finally, 18 articles were critically appraised and a thematic synthesis was undertaken.

Results

Four themes were identified regarding implementation of advance care planning: perceived disadvantages and advantages of advance directives; nurses' responsibility and roles; facilitators and barriers; and nurses' needs and recommendations. Nurses felt that advance directives provided more advantages than disadvantages. Nurses generally believed that they were well positioned to engage in advance care planning conversations. Nurses perceived barriers relating to older people, families, environment, time, culture, cost, language and knowledge of health care teams with regard to advance care planning. In nurses' needs, education and support were highlighted.

Conclusions

This study provides useful knowledge for implementing advance care planning through illustrating nurses' experiences and perspectives. The results showed that nurses were more concerned about barriers in relation to working environment, teamwork, time and knowledge of health care team members than older people's characteristics, when implementing advance care planning.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings provide nurses and administrators with information to develop related policies and education. Additionally, the appointment of nurses to formal roles related to advance care planning is appropriate and warranted.
Structural Brain Changes in Early‐Onset Alzheimer's Disease Subjects Using the LONI Pipeline Environment
Authors: Moon Seok Woo , Dinov Ivo D. , Hobel Sam , Zamanyan Alen , Choi Young Chil , Shi Ran , Thompson Paul M. , Toga Arthur W. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This study investigates 36 subjects aged 55‐65 from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) database to expand our knowledge of early‐onset (EO) Alzheimer's Disease (EO‐AD) using neuroimaging biomarkers.

METHODS

Nine of the subjects had EO‐AD, and 27 had EO mild cognitive impairment (EO‐MCI). The structural ADNI data were parcellated using BrainParser, and the 15 most discriminating neuroimaging markers between the two cohorts were extracted using the Global Shape Analysis (GSA) Pipeline workflow. Then the Local Shape Analysis (LSA) Pipeline workflow was used to conduct local (per‐vertex) post‐hoc statistical analyses of the shape differences based on the participants’ diagnoses (EO‐MCI+EO‐AD). Tensor‐based Morphometry (TBM) and multivariate regression models were used to identify the significance of the structural brain differences based on the participants’ diagnoses.

RESULTS

The significant between‐group regional differences using GSA were found in 15 neuroimaging markers. The results of the LSA analysis workflow were based on the subject diagnosis, age, years of education, apolipoprotein E (ε4), Mini‐Mental State Examination, visiting times, and logical memory as regressors. All the variables had significant effects on the regional shape measures. Some of these effects survived the false discovery rate (FDR) correction. Similarly, the TBM analysis showed significant effects on the Jacobian displacement vector fields, but these effects were reduced after FDR correction.

CONCLUSIONS

These results may explain some of the differences between EO‐AD and EO‐MCI, and some of the characteristics of the EO cognitive impairment subjects.
SELF‐REPORTED MEDICATION ADHERENCE IN PATIENTS WITH END‐STAGE KIDNEY DISEASE UNDERGOING ONLINE‐HAEMODIAFILTRATION
Authors: Amado Leonilde , Ferreira Nuno , Miranda Vasco , Meireles Patricia , Povera Verónica , Ferreira Ricardo , Fazendeiro‐Matos João , Teixeira Laetitia , Paúl Constança , Santos‐Silva Alice , Costa Elísio
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Non‐adherence to therapeutic regimens is a recognised problem in the dialysis population that compromises the opportunity to achieve maximum treatment effect and, therefore, might lead to increased morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of self‐reported medication non‐adherence in patients with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) undergoing online‐haemodiafiltration (OL‐HDF), as well as to evaluate the factors that could affect medication adherence.

Patients and methods

We evaluated 122 patients with ESKD undergoing OL‐HDF. Patients' reported medication adherence was measured by the Measure Treatment Adherence (MTS) scale. Social support was evaluated by the abbreviated Lubben Social Network Scale (LSNS); depression status by the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Socio‐demographic, co‐morbidity and clinical data were also evaluated.

Results

Our results showed that 10.7% of patients with ESKD perceived themselves as non‐adherent to medication. When two groups of patients (adherent and non‐adherents) were compared, significantly higher levels of triglycerides, and higher diastolic and systolic blood pressure were found in the non‐adherent group. Significant correlations were found between the MTS score, and diastolic blood pressure, age and GDS score. Multiple regression analysis identified age and the GDS score as independent variables significantly associated with the MTS score.

Conclusions

Non‐adherence to therapeutic regimens in patients with ESKD is associated with higher levels of triglycerides and higher blood pressure and are, therefore, at a higher cardiovascular risk. Moreover, we found that age and depression status are important variables in non‐adherence to therapeutic regimens.
Use of cannabis in severe childhood epilepsy and child protection considerations
Authors: Yap Megan , Easterbrook Laura , Connors Jan , Koopmans Laura
Published: May 2015

The use of medical cannabis in chronic illness is increasingly investigated, yet little is known about its use in paediatric populations. As child protection clinicians are often asked to provide advice around whether parents' actions to give medical cannabis to their chronically ill child constitutes harm or risk of harm, a review of the evidence base is required. This systematic review explores the use of cannabis‐derived products in children with seizure disorders. While a reduction in seizure activity was observed in some children, included studies were poorly designed and too small to extrapolate reliable conclusions about clinical use. Due to the lack of high‐quality evidence, the use of cannabis‐derived products is currently not recommended in children with seizure disorders. However, in assessing risk and harm to subject children by child protection physicians in Australia with existing State and Territory legislation, evaluation must occur on a case‐to‐case basis with each instance considered on its individual merits. Clinical trials addressing drug efficacy and long‐term safety of cannabis‐derived products are required.
Dwarf tapeworm (Hymenolepis nana): Characteristics in the Northern Territory 2002–2013
Authors: Willcocks Briony , McAuliffe Gary N , Baird Robert W
Published: May 2015

Aim

Review of dwarf tapeworm (Hymenolepis nana) presentations to Northern Territory (NT) Government health‐care facilities over 12 years. We postulated H. nana infections would remain unchanged despite the introduction of deworming programmes as H. nana is not eradicated with albendazole treatment.

Methods

A retrospective observational analysis of consecutive microbiologically confirmed cases of H. nana identified by NT Government health‐care facilities between 2002 and 2013.

Results

Four hundred sixty‐one episodes of H. nana infection were identified over the 12‐year period from 68 387 faecal samples. Infections were overwhelmingly in young children with a median age of patients being 3.0 years (interquartile range 2.25–4.67). Patients were predominantly Indigenous (98.9%, P = 0.001) and infections occurred across the entire NT. Infections were associated with anaemia (18.2%) and eosinophilia (39.6%). The annual prevalence of NT Government health‐care facility diagnosed H. nana infection remains relatively constant from 6.9 {4.8–9.0 (confidence interval (CI))} cases per 10 000 Indigenous population in 2002, compared with 6.6 (4.7–8.4 CI) cases per 10 000 Indigenous population in 2013. Infection rates in Indigenous children <5 years of age were: 46.1 (16.4–75.8 CI) cases/10 000 in 2002, compared with 44.3 (15.3–73.3 CI) cases/10 000 Indigenous population in 2013.

Conclusion

H. nana is the most frequently identified cestode (tapeworm) in NT Government health‐care facilities. H. nana remains endemic throughout the NT, predominantly infecting Indigenous children less than 5 years of age.
Childhood hepatitis C virus infection: An Australian national surveillance study of incident cases over five years
Authors: Raynes‐Greenow Camille , Polis Suzanne , Elliott Elizabeth , Hardikar Winita , Kesson Alison , Kaldor John , Jones Cheryl A
Published: May 2015

Aim

An estimated 1.1% of Australian adults are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Many develop chronic liver disease, and some develop liver failure or hepatocellular carcinoma. HCV infection in Australian children is poorly defined. We aimed to determine the reported incidence, clinical and epidemiological features of newly diagnosed HCV infection in Australian children presenting to paediatricians.

Methods

We undertook prospective active national surveillance, using the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit, of incident HCV cases in children aged <15 years between 1st January 2003, and 31st December 2007.

Results

There were 45 confirmed cases of newly diagnosed HCV infection over five years (<1 per 100 000 children aged <15 years per year). Median age at diagnosis was 2.9 years. Positive maternal HCV serostatus was the most frequent reported risk factor for HCV infection in children (40/45). Three children (all aged > 14), were exposed through their own IV drug use. No children were co‐infected with HIV and only one child was co‐infected with HBV. All children were asymptomatic at diagnosis, although many had minor elevations in liver transaminases. Many clinicians reported difficulties with follow‐up.

Conclusions

Childhood HCV infection is uncommon in Australia, although our data likely underestimate the incidence. Only a small number of children aged <18 months was identified, despite known perinatal exposure. Opportunistic investigation of children at risk for HCV, improved education regarding vertical transmission for health care providers, and increased coordination of childhood HCV services are required to improve recognition and management of children with HCV.
Candida species bloodstream infections in hospitalised children: A 10‐year experience
Authors: Chan Shannon , Baley Elizabeth D , Hossain Jobayer , Di Pentima M Cecilia
Published: May 2015

In a 10‐year retrospective study we assessed the epidemiology of candidemia and the association between the presence and removal of indwelling central venous catheters, antifungal use and clinical outcomes among hospitalised children. Demographic and clinical information were retrieved from the electronic medical records. One hundred six episodes of candidemia were identified in 83 unique patients. Candida parapsilosis was the most prevalent (52%) species, followed by C. albicans (25%). Non‐oncologic children receiving fluconazole within 30 days of developing candidemia were most likely to develop C. parapsilosis infection (40%, P = 0.006), independent of total parenteral nutrition (odds ratio (OR) 2.5, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.6–11, P = 0.3). Crude mortality rate was 12% and significantly higher for children less than 2 years (OR: 6.7, 95% CI: 1.9–23, P = 0.003), and those infected with C. lusitaniae (OR: 9, 95% CI: 1.6–51, P = 0.02). The aggregate use of antifungal agents decreased overtime (χ2: 16.7, P < 0.0001). Fluconazole remained the most common antifungal agent used during the study.
The Influence of Organizational and National Culture on New Product Performance
Authors: Eisend Martin , Evanschitzky Heiner , Gilliland David I.
Published: May 2015

The authors conduct a meta‐analysis on the combined influence of organizational and national culture on new product performance. For this purpose, they refer to the effectiveness of value congruency and develop a conceptual model describing the fit between organizational culture types as suggested by the competing values framework and national culture, as described by Hofstede's cultural dimensions. The meta‐analysis is based on 489 effect sizes taken from 123 manuscripts. The findings show that organizations with a market culture show the highest new product performance, while hierarchy‐type organizations show the lowest performance. The influence of national culture variables supports the effect of value congruency, and shows that in individualistic cultures the impact of a clan culture decreases, the impact of an adhocracy culture type decreases with uncertainty avoidance, and the influence of a hierarchy culture type increases with power distance. The superior effect of a market culture type can be matched by other organizational orientations, but in particular national cultures only. The combined findings underline the importance for firms that seek to improve the success rate of new products on international markets to consider the fit of a national culture with a firm's organizational culture.
Could a trace mineral deficiency be associated with congenital chondrodystrophy of unknown origin (CCUO) in beef cattle in Australia?
Authors: White P. J.
Published: May 2015

Congenital chondrodystrophy of unknown origin (CCUO) has been reported in beef cattle worldwide. A trace mineral deficiency in pregnant dams has been suggested as causing the deformities seen in CCUO calves. An extended outbreak of CCUO in Australia between 2002 and 2009 provided an opportunity to examine the pattern of trace mineral status in gestating cows and the effect of parenteral trace mineral supplementation on a herd at risk of CCUO calves. A property with a strong history of CCUO was identified from a previous case–control study. A randomly selected sample of multiparous (8 to 10 years old) Angus and Angus cross cows (n = 20) was assigned to control (no injection) or supplement group given three injections at the recommended dose rate of chelated mineral supplement (Mn, Zn, Cu and Se) at 6‐week intervals in mid‐ to late gestation. Liver biopsies were performed to measure liver Mn, Zn, Cu and Fe at each injection time and 1 month post‐calving. Pasture samples were also collected for analysis. Supplemented cows had higher liver Cu levels compared to control cows (p < 0.001), but there was no difference between supplement and control cows for liver Zn, Fe or Mn. Liver Cu (p < 0.001), Fe (p < 0.001) and Zn (p < 0.001) fell during gestation and liver Mn increased after calving (p < 0.001). Three cows from the control group and two from the supplement group had liver zinc levels below the normal values at the end of the trial. Two cows from the control group and one from the treatment group gave birth to cows with signs of CCUO including superior brachygnathia. All cows except one from the control group had rough dry coats with excessive dander. The role of trace mineral status in the birth of CCUO calves, especially the role of zinc deficiency, requires further investigation.