bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breeding programmes for smallholder sheep farming systems: II. Optimization of cooperative village breeding schemes
Authors: Gizaw S. , van Arendonk J.A.M. , Valle‐Zárate A. , Haile A. , Rischkowsky B. , Dessie T. , Mwai A.O.
Published: June 2014

A simulation study was conducted to optimize a cooperative village‐based sheep breeding scheme for Menz sheep of Ethiopia. Genetic gains and profits were estimated under nine levels of farmers' participation and three scenarios of controlled breeding achieved in the breeding programme, as well as under three cooperative flock sizes, ewe to ram mating ratios and durations of ram use for breeding. Under fully controlled breeding, that is, when there is no gene flow between participating (P) and non‐participating (NP) flocks, profits ranged from Birr 36.9 at 90% of participation to Birr 21.3 at 10% of participation. However, genetic progress was not affected adversely. When there was gene flow from the NP to P flocks, profits declined from Birr 28.6 to Birr −3.7 as participation declined from 90 to 10%. Under the two‐way gene flow model (i.e. when P and NP flocks are herded mixed in communal grazing areas), NP flocks benefited from the genetic gain achieved in the P flocks, but the benefits declined sharply when participation declined beyond 60%. Our results indicate that a cooperative breeding group can be established with as low as 600 breeding ewes mated at a ratio of 45 ewes to one ram, and the rams being used for breeding for a period of two years. This study showed that farmer cooperation is crucial to effect genetic improvement under smallholder low‐input sheep farming systems.
Initial Independent Outcomes from Focal Impulse and Rotor Modulation Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Multicenter FIRM Registry
Authors: MILLER JOHN M. , KOWAL ROBERT C. , SWARUP VIJAY , DAUBERT JAMES P. , DAOUD EMILE G. , DAY JOHN D. , ELLENBOGEN KENNETH A. , HUMMEL JOHN D. , BAYKANER TINA , KRUMMEN DAVID E. , NARAYAN SANJIV M. , REDDY VIVEK Y. , SHIVKUMAR KALYANAM , STEINBERG JONATHAN S. , WHEELAN KEVIN R.
Published: June 2014

Multicenter FIRM Registry for AF

Introduction

The success of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (AF) may be improved if stable AF sources identified by Focal Impulse and Rotor Mapping (FIRM) are also eliminated. The long‐term results of this approach are unclear outside the centers where FIRM was developed; thus, we assessed outcomes of FIRM‐guided AF ablation in the first cases at 10 experienced centers.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled n = 78 consecutive patients (61 ± 10 years) undergoing FIRM guided ablation for persistent (n = 48), longstanding persistent (n = 7), or paroxysmal (n = 23) AF. AF recordings from both atria with a 64‐pole basket catheter were analyzed using a novel mapping system (Rhythm ViewTM; Topera Inc., CA, USA). Identified rotors/focal sources were ablated, followed by PVI.

Results

Each institution recruited a median of 6 patients, each of whom showed 2.3 ± 0.9 AF rotors/focal sources in diverse locations. 25.3% of all sources were right atrial (RA), and 50.0% of patients had ≥1 RA source. Ablation of all sources required a total of 16.6 ± 11.7 minutes, followed by PVI. On >1 year follow‐up with a 3‐month blanking period, 1 patient lost to follow‐up (median time to 1st recurrence: 245 days, IQR 145–354), single‐procedure freedom from AF was 87.5% (patients without prior ablation; 35/40) and 80.5% (all patients; 62/77) and similar for persistent and paroxysmal AF (P = 0.89).

Conclusions

Elimination of patient‐specific AF rotors/focal sources produced freedom‐from‐AF of ≈80% at 1 year at centers new to FIRM. FIRM‐guided ablation has a rapid learning curve, yielding similar results to original FIRM reports in each center's first cases.
Randomized trial of autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells transplantation for hepatitis B virus cirrhosis: Regulation of Treg/Th17 cells
Authors: Xu Lanman , Gong Yuewen , Wang Benfu , Shi Keqing , Hou Yijun , Wang Liping , Lin Zuo , Han Yixiang , Lu Lu , Chen Dazhi , Lin Xiuli , Zeng Qiqiang , Feng Wenke , Chen Yongping
Published: June 2014

Background and Aim

Liver cirrhosis is one of the major consequences of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, and transplantation of autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (ABMSCs) is one of promising therapies for patients with HBV‐related liver cirrhosis (HBV‐LC). However, the mechanism is unclear. The aim of the current study was to explore the role of Treg/Th17 cells in ABMSCs transplantation in patients with HBV‐LC.

Methods

In this prospective study, 56 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to transplantation group and control group. After 24‐week follow‐up, 39 patients completed the study (20 cases in transplantation group and 19 cases in control group). The Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease scores, liver function, changes of Treg/Th17 cells, as well as related transcription factors and serum cytokines, were determined.

Results

Although patients in both groups showed significant improvement after Entecavir treatment, ABMSC transplantation further improved patients' liver function. Moreover, there was a significant increase in Treg cells and a marked decrease in Th17 cells in the transplantation group compared with control, leading to an increased Treg/Th17 ratio. Furthermore, mRNA levels of Treg‐related transcription factor (Foxp3) and Th17‐related transcription factor (RORγt) were increased and decreased, respectively. In addition, serum transforming growth factor‐β levels were significantly higher at early weeks of transplantation, while serum levels of interleukin‐17, tumor necrosis factor‐α, and interleukin‐6 were significantly lower in patients in the transplantation group compared with control.

Conclusion

ABMSCs transplantation was effective in improving liver function in patients with HBV‐LC, which was mediated, at least in part, through the regulation of Treg/Th17 cell balance.
Is Coal Fly Ash a Suitable Alkaline Resource for Manufacturing New Calcium Carbonate–based Cements? A Systems Analytical Evaluation
Authors: Achternbosch Matthias , Dewald Ulrich , Nieke Eberhard , Sardemann Gerhard
Published: June 2014

At present, the production of cement contributes approximately 8% to global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, whereas a further increase in the future is expected. To reduce these emissions, a prominent measure of the cement industry is to use materials such as coal fly ash (CFA) as a cement substitute, but the availability of qualified ash is limited. The development of “green cements” with lower CO2 emissions attracts attention within the cement industry and politics. Recently, a new invention for a calcium carbonate (CaCO3)‐based cement intends to use CFA as an alkaline resource during a manufacturing process based on CO2 mineralization converting anthropogenic CO2 into stable calcareous materials by using calcium‐bearing brines. In our systems analysis, we demonstrate that the alkalinity of CFA usable for mass production of cements is poor. The alkalinity of CFA primarily depends on the dissolution of free lime. For CO2 mineralization, the resulting alkalinity is just sufficient to precipitate the calcium supplied by the CFA itself, and the capacity of CO2 mineralization is low. Thus, CFA could only be used as a supplementary resource. Even at locations where exceptional calcium‐rich ash is available, very large amounts of ash must be processed. Globally, only a few million tonnes of calcium could be extracted in this way. Because qualified CFA is already used in the construction industry, the extraction of calcium from nonqualified, more polluted CFA is associated with a risk of unwanted environmental effects and implies an elaborated pollutant control.
Cervical screening and the aftermath of childhood sexual abuse: are clinical staff trained to recognise and manage the effect this has on their patients?
Authors: Walker Judith , Allan Helen T
Published: June 2014

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the training needs and awareness of childhood sexual abuse amongst clinical staff taking cervical screening samples in one inner city primary care trust.

Background

Studies exploring sexual abuse and nonparticipation in cervical screening have demonstrated that women can experience re‐traumatisation if care during examinations is insensitive to their particular needs.

Design

This was a mixed methods, service evaluation in three phases.

Methods

A literature review, a questionnaire to cervical screening staff in an inner city primary care trust and a focus group of four staff drawn from questionnaire respondents to explore themes raised in the questionnaire data.

Results

Data analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data showed that clinical staff underestimated the frequency of childhood sexual abuse although they were aware of the difficulties and reluctance some women experience undergoing gynaecological examinations. When women did disclose childhood sexual abuse or when staff suspected a history of childhood sexual abuse, staff reported feeling unsure of how they should proceed. There was no support or clinical supervision, and unmet training needs were identified.

Conclusions

Nurses expressed anxiety around the potential of the screening test to cause more harm than good and at their inability to provide more help than listening. Staff wanted support and further training after completing their cervical screening training course to assist in their provision of sensitive care to patients who have experienced childhood sexual abuse.

Relevance to clinical practice

Whilst our results cannot be generalised to a wider population, they may be meaningful for the community of cervical screening takers. We argue that screening staff require further training and professional support (clinical supervision) to increase their confidence when providing safe and sensitive practice for childhood sexual abuse survivors. If staff feel more confident and competent when responding to disclosure of childhood sexual abuse in screening situations, women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse might participate in the screening programme more readily.
Activism, Mobilisation and Political Engagement: Comparative Historical Perspectives
Authors: Rivett Gary
Published: June 2014

This editorial introduction discusses and explains the broader research context underpinning the essays, namely the Leverhulme Trust‐funded Research Network, “The Comparative History of Political Engagement in Western and African Societies”. It provides a brief overview of the intellectual background to the network's agenda, and, in particular, argues that comparative sociological approaches to the study of political engagement have left it inadequately historicized. The introduction then discusses the general theme of “Activism, mobilization and Political Engagement”, which all contributors to the international conference were asked to consider. It argues that these essays, when taken together, offer new comparative historical perspectives for investigations into the history of political engagement, providing highly suggestive points of departures for future research.
“Citizens at the Door”: Mobilising Against the Enemy in Civil War London
Authors: Leng Tom
Published: June 2014

This article considers how the image of the enemy was deployed by parliamentarian activists in civil war London. It focuses on the “malignant party” identified in parliamentary discourse as guilty of dividing crown and parliament and precipitating civil war. Endorsing the reality of this party became a means for activists to assert their status as those most “well‐affected” to parliament, and to legitimise their own political agency within the terms of parliamentary discourse. By learning to speak the language of parliament, these activists were able to participate in the construction of the parliamentary cause, and to shape its future.
Reversible Corpus Callosum Splenial Lesion Due to Steroid Therapy
Authors: Aksu Banu , Kurtcan Serpil , Alkan Alpay , Aralasmak Ayse , Oktem Faruk
Published: June 2014

Reversible corpus callosum splenial (CCS) lesions are rare findings and usually detected incidentally. We presented a case of 15‐year‐old boy with a diagnoses of nephrotic syndrome. He was referred for neuropsychiatric symptoms following dose reduction on steroid treatment. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a focal lesion in the CCS, hyperintense on T2 and FLAIR and hypointense on T1 images with diffusion restriction on apparent diffusion coefficient map. Follow‐up MRI 3 weeks later showed complete resolution of the lesion. It was probably result of focal intramyelinic edema due to excytotoxic mechanisms and/or arginine‐vasopressin release.
Emergence of resistant variants detected by ultra‐deep sequencing after asunaprevir and daclatasvir combination therapy in patients infected with hepatitis C virus genotype 1
Authors: Kosaka K. , Imamura M. , Hayes C. N. , Abe H. , Hiraga N. , Yoshimi S. , Murakami E. , Kawaoka T. , Tsuge M. , Aikata H. , Miki D. , Ochi H. , Matsui H. , Kanai A. , Inaba T. , Chayama K.
Published: June 2014

Daclatasvir (DCV) and asunaprevir (ASV) are NS5A and NS3 protease‐targeted antivirals respectively, currently under development for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We analysed the relationship between pre‐existing drug‐resistant variants and clinical outcome of the combination treatment with DCV and ASV. Ten patients with HCV genotype 1b were orally treated with a combination of ASV and DCV for 24 weeks. The frequencies of amino acid (aa) variants at NS3 aa positions 155, 156 and 168 and at NS5A aa31 and 93 before and after treatment were analysed by ultra‐deep sequencing. We established a minimum variant frequency threshold of 0.3% based on plasmid sequencing. Sustained virological response (SVR) was achieved in 8 out of 10 patients (80%), and relapse of HCV RNA after cessation of the treatment and viral breakthrough occurred in the other two patients. Pre‐existing DCV‐resistant variants (L31V/M and/or Y93H; 0.9–99.4%) were detected in three out of eight patients who achieved SVR. Pre‐existing DCV‐resistant variants were detected in a relapsed patient (L31M, Y93H) and in a patient with viral breakthrough (Y93H); however, no ASV‐resistant variants were detected. In these patients, HCV RNA rebounded with ASV‐ and DCV‐ double resistant variants (NS3 D168A/V plus NS5A L31M and Y93H). While pre‐existing DCV‐resistant variants might contribute to viral breakthrough in DCV and ASV combination therapy, the effectiveness of prediction of the outcome of therapy based on ultra‐deep sequence analysis of pre‐existing resistant variants appears limited.
Environmental factors influence nest excavation by foxes
Authors: Dawson S. J. , Adams P. J. , Huston R. M. , Fleming P. A.
Published: June 2014

Predation rates of freshwater turtle nests can vary markedly, suggesting that in addition to different suites of predators present, environmental factors (e.g. vegetation characteristics, distance to water/clearing and rainfall) also influence survival of turtle nests. Understanding the influence of environmental factors on nest success can aid turtle conservation through successful management of nesting habitat. This study simultaneously investigated the effect of multiple factors on artificial nest survivorship at a site where oblong turtles Chelodina colliei were present. Over a 12‐month period, we monitored the fate of 580 artificial nests installed as 145 nest‐sets, each having one of four treatments: (1) two chicken eggs (E) buried and the ground sprayed with water from a turtle pond (S) (E+S+), (2) two chicken eggs (E+S−), (3) nest sprayed (E−S+) and (4) hole dug and refilled (E−S−). Seven environmental factors were recorded for each site and nests. Nests were monitored for 2 months after installation, by which time, 46% of the nests had been excavated. Depredation rate was affected by both the presence of eggs (P < 0.001) and being sprayed with turtle pond water (P = 0.005); but we found that even 38% of empty nests (holes simply dug and refilled) were excavated. Nest excavation was more likely for more obvious nests located in areas with more sparse vegetation (P < 0.05) closer to the shoreline (P < 0.01). Excavation rates were highest immediately after installation, but continued for the duration of the monitoring period. The introduced red fox Vulpes vulpes was identified as the only predator observed on cameras for a subset of 60 nest‐sets. In conclusion, foxes use both visual and olfactory cues to locate nests, and environmental conditions at the nest site significantly influence the fate of the nests.
Straining Psychic and Social Sinew: Trauma among Adolescent Psychiatric Patients in New Mexico
Authors: Jenkins Janis H.
Published: June 2014

Drawing on data from a longitudinal study of 47 adolescents of diverse ethnic backgrounds hospitalized for psychiatric disorder in New Mexico, the article critically examines the relevance of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to address anthropological questions of how to define the problem. Factors include the utility/limitation of psychiatric diagnostic categories, the lived experience of severe distress, the socioeconomic and political conditions of suffering, and reciprocal relations between immediate and remote social institutions. I discuss the mental health care system for adolescents and present two case studies of young inpatients, emphasizing the need for dual specification of the conditions of trauma and the structure of experience. I argue for understanding patterns of abandonment that shape the raw existence of young people at both the personal and collective levels to apprehend their depth and durability.
Emotional well‐being of Vietnamese immigrant women during the transition to motherhood: A descriptive cohort study
Authors: Tsao Ying , Creedy Debra Kay , Gamble Jenny
Published: June 2014

This study investigated the health and well‐being of Vietnamese foreign brides recently immigrated to southern Taiwan. Forty‐four participants were recruited during pregnancy and 23 were followed‐up at six weeks post‐partum. Standardized measures completed during face‐to‐face interviews revealed high levels of life stress, poor general health, low social support, and difficulty caring for their infant amongst participants. Estimated prevalence of probable antenatal depression was 32%, and 26% for probable post‐partum depression using Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores of ≥ 13. Probable antenatal depression predicted postnatal depression. Pregnant immigrant women experienced a high level of difficult life circumstances and were significantly more likely to develop depressive symptoms after birth. Immigrant women with low social support during pregnancy were also more likely to report higher EPDS scores than well‐supported women. Given these results, prevention and intervention activities are needed to promote maternal psychological well‐being in disadvantaged women, especially immigrant brides.
Xeroderma Pigmentosum in the United Kingdom
Authors: Lehmann Alan R.
Published: June 2014

The seminal discovery by James Cleaver of defective DNA repair in xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) opened up an ever‐expanding field of DNA repair‐related disorders. In addition, it put XP on the map and has led to improved diagnosis, care and management of affected patients. In the United Kingdom, we recently established a multidisciplinary specialist clinic for XP patients. All XP patients in the United Kingdom are able to visit the clinic where they are examined and advised by a team of specialists with detailed knowledge of the different aspects of XP.
On the consequences of aluminium stress in rye: repression of two mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase mRNAs
Authors: Abd El‐Moneim D. , Contreras R. , Silva‐Navas J. , Gallego F. J. , Figueiras A. M. , Benito C.
Published: June 2014

Plants have developed several external and internal aluminium (Al) tolerance mechanisms. The external mechanism best characterised is the exudation of organic acids induced by Al. Rye (Secale cereale L.), one of the most Al‐tolerant cereal crops, secretes both citrate and malate from its roots in response to Al. However, the role of malate dehydrogenase (MDH) genes in Al‐induced stress has not been studied in rye. We have isolated the ScMDH1 and ScMDH2 genes, encoding two different mitochondrial MDH isozymes, in three Al‐tolerant rye cultivars (Ailés, Imperial and Petkus) and one sensitive inbred rye line (Riodeva). These genes, which have seven exons and six introns, were located on the 1R (ScMDH1) and 3RL (ScMDH2) chromosomes. Exon 1 of ScMDH1 and exon 7 of ScMDH2 were the most variable among the different ryes. The hypothetical proteins encoded by these genes were classified as putative mitochondrial MDH isoforms. The phylogenetic relationships obtained using both cDNA and protein sequences indicated that the ScMDH1 and ScMDH2 proteins are orthologous to mitochondrial MDH1 and MDH2 proteins of different Poaceae species. The expression studies of the ScMDH1 and ScMDH2 genes indicate that it is more intense in roots than in leaves. Moreover, the amount of their corresponding mRNAs in roots from plants treated and not treated with Al was higher in the tolerant cultivar Petkus than in the sensitive inbred line Riodeva. In addition, ScMDH1 and ScMDH2 mRNA levels decreased in response to Al stress (repressive behaviour) in the roots of both the tolerant Petkus and the sensitive line Riodeva.
Systemic Immunosuppression by Methylprednisolone and Pregnancy Rates in Goats Undergoing the Transfer of Cloned Embryos
Authors: Feltrin C , Cooper CA , Mohamad‐Fauzi N , Rodrigues VHV , Aguiar LH , Gaudencio‐Neto S , Martins LT , Calderón CEM , Morais AS , Carneiro IS , Almeida TM , Silva ING , Rodrigues JL , Maga EA , Murray JD , Libório AB , Bertolini LR , Bertolini M
Published: June 2014

Contents

The presence of the zona pellucida has been perceived as a requirement for the oviductal transfer of cloned embryos at early stages of development while protecting the embryo from an immune system response. We hypothesized that steroid hormone therapy could reduce a potential cellular immune response after the transfer of zona‐free cloned embryos into the oviduct of recipient female goats. In Experiment 1, seven does were used to study the systemic immunosuppressant effect of the methylprednisolone administration (for 3 days) on blood cell counts. Whole blood was collected prior to treatment with methyprednisolone and then on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 14, 21 and 28 after the first dose of methylprednisolone for the analysis of haematological parameters. Methylprednisolone treatment significantly reduced circulating white blood cells and neutrophils in comparison with pre‐treatment levels, demonstrating a systemic immunosuppressant effect. In Experiment 2, a group of 58 does were used as recipient females to study the effect of administration of methylprednisolone for 3 days on the establishment of pregnancies after the transfer of zona‐free cloned embryos into the oviducts. No effects on pregnancy rates on Day 30 were observed regarding the distinct treatment groups (control vs. methylprednisolone), the source of oocytes (in vivo‐ vs in vitro‐matured) or the presence or absence of the zona pellucida in embryos. In summary, methylprednisolone was effective at inducing a systemic immunosuppressed state in goats, but the treatment prior to embryo transfer did not affect pregnancy rates. Moreover, pregnancy rates were similar between zona‐free and zona‐intact goat cloned embryos.
Plant Recruitment and Soil Microbial Characteristics of Rehabilitation Seedings Following Wildfire in Northern Utah
Authors: Taylor Megan M. , Hild Ann L. , Shaw Nancy L. , Norton Urszula , Collier Timothy R.
Published: June 2014

One goal of post‐fire native species seeding is to increase plant community resistance to exotic weed invasions, yet few studies address the impacts of seeding on exotic annual establishment and persistence. In 2010 and 2011, we investigated the influence of seedings on exotic annuals and the underlying microbial communities. The wildfire site in northern Utah was formerly dominated by Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis, but burned in September 2008. Experimental seeding treatments were installed in November 2008 to examine strategies for establishing native species using two drills, hand broadcasts and different timing of seed applications (resulting in 13 seeding treatments). We collected aboveground biomass of invasive annuals (Halogeton glomeratus, Salsola kali, and Bromus tectorum), other volunteer plants from the extant seed bank, and seeded species from all treatments in the second and third years after fire. We sampled soils within microsites beneath native perennial bunchgrass and exotic annuals to characterize underlying soil microbial communities. High precipitation following seeding led to strong seedling establishment and we found few differences between seeding treatments established with either drill. All seeded treatments reduced exotic biomass by at least 90% relative to unseeded controls. Soil microbial communities (phospholipid fatty acid analysis), beneath B. tectorum, Poa secunda, and Pseudoroegneria spicata microsites differed little 3 years after fire. However, microbial abundance beneath P. spicata increased from June to July, suggesting that microbial communities beneath successful seedings can vary greatly within a single growing season.
A Note on the (Continued) Ability of the Yield Curve to Forecast Economic Downturns in South Africa
Authors: Botha Ferdi , Keeton Gavin
Published: June 2014

In 2002‐2003, the South African yield spread falsely signalled a downswing that never materialised. This paper provides two reasons for this false signal. First, while the Reserve Bank never actually officially declared the start of a downswing, by alternative measures a downswing did actually occur. It is this severe weakness in economic activity at that time that the yield curve pointed to. Second, short‐term interest rates in 2003 were higher than they should have been because of a mistake made in measuring consumer price inflation. Because South Africa had recently introduced an inflation‐targeting regime, policy interest rates were, as a result of this error, kept too high for too long. This policy mistake was rectified as soon as the error in the Consumer Price Index was discovered. Thus, the yield curve in 2003 pointed to the reality that short‐term interest rates were too high and risked pushing the economy into full blown recession. This is demonstrated by the fact that it was a fall in long bond interest rates that caused the yield spread to turn negative, indicating expectations that short‐term interest rates would need to be cut – as indeed they were.
Effect of game format on heart rate, activity profile, and player involvement in elite and recreational youth players
Authors: Randers M. B. , Andersen T. B. , Rasmussen L. S. , Larsen M. N. , Krustrup P.
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate activity profile, aerobic load, and player involvement in two game formats of recreational and elite youth football for two age groups. A total of 152 youth players participated, with 45 U10 players playing 5v5 and 8v8 games, and 41 U13 players playing 8v8 and 11v11 (20 min) games. Activity profile, heart rate (HR), and technical actions were measured during all games using 10 Hz GPS, video filming, and HR monitors. For U10, no difference was found in total distance covered (1754 ± 237 vs 1771 ± 314 m, P = 0.650, d = 0.06), whereas mean HR (174 ± 10 vs 168 ± 12 bpm, P = 0.001, d = 0.59) and number of technical actions (65.1 ± 24.0 vs 36.9 ± 20.4, P <  0.001, d = 1.27) were higher in 5v5 than in 8v8. For U13, lower total distance covered (1821 ± 325 vs 2038 ± 328 m, P < 0.001, d = 0.66) and higher number of technical actions (36.2 ± 14.9 vs 26.9 ± 14.1, P < 0.001, d = 0.64) were observed in 8v8 than in 11v11, with no difference in mean HR (170 ± 10 vs 171 ± 10 bpm, P = 0.679, d = 0.10). In conclusion, HR is high in youth football matches irrespective of the level of play and the game format. Playing with fewer players on smaller pitches results in minor changes to the physical loading but elevates the technical involvement of youth players both at elite level and recreational level.
Structural and functional cardiac adaptations to a 10‐week school‐based football intervention for 9–10‐year‐old children
Authors: Krustrup P. , Hansen P. R. , Nielsen C. M. , Larsen M. N. , Randers M. B. , Manniche V. , Hansen L. , Dvorak J. , Bangsbo J.
Published: June 2014

The present study investigated the cardiac effects of a 10‐week football training intervention for school children aged 9–10 years using comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography as a part of a larger ongoing study. A total of 97 pupils from four school classes were cluster‐randomized into a control group that maintained their usual activities (CON; two classes, n = 51, 21 boys and 30 girls) and a football training group that performed an additional 3 × 40 min of small‐sided football training per week (FT; two classes, n = 46, 23 boys and 23 girls). No baseline differences were observed in age, body composition, or echocardiographic variables between FT and CON. After the 10‐week intervention, left ventricular posterior wall diameter was increased in FT compared with CON [0.4 ± 0.7 vs −0.1 ± 0.6 (± SD) mm; P < 0.01] as was the interventricular septum thickness (0.2 ± 0.7 vs −0.2 ± 0.8 mm; P < 0.001). Global isovolumetric relaxation time increased more in FT than in CON (3.8 ± 10.4 vs −0.9 ± 6.6 ms, P < 0.05) while the change in ventricular systolic ejection fraction tended to be higher (1.4 ± 8.0 vs −1.1 ± 5.5%; P = 0.08). No changes were observed in resting heart rate or blood pressure. In conclusion, a short‐term, school‐based intervention comprising small‐sided football sessions resulted in significant structural and functional cardiac adaptations in pre‐adolescent children.
Powerblindness
Authors: Kurzman Charles , Ghoshal Rajesh , Gibson Kristin , Key Clinton , Roos Micah , Wells Amber
Published: June 2014

In the land of the blind, the one‐eyed man may be king. But positions of power may produce their own forms of blindness. This paper reviews multiple theoretical approaches to the concept of powerblindness and categorizes these literatures into five forms through which powerblindness operates: powerblind identity (failure to notice that one belongs to a privileged group), powerblind egalitarianism (belief that all groups are equal in power), powerblind hierarchy (emphasis on one's own subordinate position), powerblind exception (the claim that one is less privileged than others in one's group), and powerblind justification (belief that present‐day hierarchy is merited or inevitable). The paper identifies studies offering evidence for each, drawing on social‐psychological experiments, survey data, and qualitative research, suggesting that power and knowledge do not necessarily go hand in hand – some forms of knowledge about the social order may be more visible to people with less power than to people with more.
The Ideologically Colonized Metropole: Dutch Racism and Racist Denial
Authors: Weiner Melissa F.
Published: June 2014

Many in The Netherlands deny the existence of race and racism even as significant research strongly suggests otherwise. This paper synthesized existing literature to illuminate The Netherlands' unique form of racism, which is rooted in racial neoliberalism, anti‐racialism (i.e. the denial of race), racial Europeanization, and the particular Dutch history of colonial exploitation. This article summarizes existing scholarship addressing racism in wide array of social institutions in The Netherlands before addressing the historical roots of Dutch racism and how Dutch aphasia and racial Europeanization deny the links between contemporary and historical oppression before, finally, offering an explanation for this disconnect.
Bridging Immigration Research and Racial Formation Theory to Examine Contemporary Immigrant Identities
Authors: Cheng Yuching Julia
Published: June 2014

This article explores the potential for linking immigration research with racial formation theory to examine contemporary immigrant identities. The current literature is dominated by three paradigms (ethnicity, nationalism, and transnationalism) and five theoretical perspectives on immigrant identities (plain American, hyphenated American, panethnic American, nationality origin, and transnational). They are all flawed in their reductions of race to the concepts of ethnicity, nationality, and transnationality. Based on my reading of the existing research, I will argue that immigration researchers can benefit from using racial formation theory to explore immigrant identity due to its acknowledgment of the autonomous power of race. However, racial formation theory has been correctly challenged due to its high level of abstraction and lack of micro‐level analyses. Certain transnational migration studies have underscored the necessity to integrate national origin into racial formation theoretical frameworks. According to this transnational perspective, my conclusion is that immigrant families represent a logical starting point for conceptualizing the relationship between immigration and racial formation.
American Evangelicals and Conservative Politics: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Steensland Brian , Wright Eric L.
Published: June 2014

Since the late 1970s, American evangelicals have been a potent influence in conservative politics. Recent scholarship both refines and contextualizes some of the central themes found in the broader literature on evangelical politics. We first review key recent scholarship in American religious history. It shows that current patterns of evangelical conservatism are the product of historically contingent social forces and that political conservatism was never uniform among evangelicals. We then discuss recent scholarship on evangelicals' attitudes toward public issues. This work indicates that commitment to moral traditionalism on social issues is the dominant force animating evangelical political conservatism and that evangelicals remain distinctly Republican in their partisan voting despite economic and foreign policy commitments that are not as strongly aligned with Republican priorities. We then shift our focus to the dominant conservative movement of the moment: the Tea Party. We cite evidence that evangelicals and the Tea Party remain distinct in terms of constituents and issue priorities but that social concerns may be taking precedence over the economic concerns that birthed the movement. We conclude by discussing recent trends that suggest that a de‐alignment between evangelicalism and conservative politics may be underway.
Relational Work in Economic Sociology: A Review and Extension
Authors: García Alfredo
Published: June 2014

Understanding how economic transactions are constitutive in the development, maintenance, and solidification of relationships has been of particular importance for economic sociologists in recent years. Following the work of Viviana Zelizer, economic sociologists have expanded from a purely network‐based approach of analyzing economic action to consider how and in what ways relations shape economic life. This paper provides a review of Zelizer's relational view of economic activity and presents an extension to the theory. While scholars have successfully applied “relational work” to many areas of economic life, this paper asks whether one can use the theory to examine economic interactions between human and non‐human agents. The example of tithing in the Prosperity Gospel tradition is used in order to expand relational work to this realm.
Evidence‐Based Medicine or Cookbook Medicine? Addressing Concerns over the Standardization of Care
Authors: Knaapen Loes
Published: June 2014

Evidence‐based medicine (EBM), which advocates clinical decisions are based on evidence from medical research, has become an important ideal pursued in contemporary medicine. EBM relies on two key principles: the evidence hierarchy and clinical practice guidelines. Both principles have been fiercely criticized, and critics often invoke the term ‘Cookbook medicine’ to stress the dangers and limitations of EBM. This article reviews diverse critical literature on EBM by drawing on the newly proposed subfield of “Sociology of Standards.” It reframes the manifold critiques on EBM as concerns over the harm that standardization can bring about and demonstrates how empirical sociological studies have contributed to a better understanding of EBM's justificatory basis and regulatory impact. First, it discusses the ‘politics of Evidence’ inherent in EBM's epistemological basis, secondly, explores the actual ‘evidence‐base’ of its tools in practice, and third, addresses sociological debates on EBM's regulatory impact. In the concluding section, I argue that a ‘Sociology of Standards’ opens up new research avenues by allowing scholars to challenge – or at least empirically investigate – a host of dichotomies. By doing so, the role of the patient in EBM can be reframed to allow for more productive empirical investigations.
Partial Film Lubrication Characteristics of Inlet Zone in Cold Strip Rolling
Authors: Fu Kuo , Zang Yong , Gao Zhiying
Published: June 2014

According to the average flow Reynolds equation and rolling theory, a partial film lubrication model of inlet zone has been developed. The model mainly simulates and reflects the influence of surface topography on the inlet film thickness and inlet zone length. Based on the surface topography analysis, a method to judge the friction condition was proposed. All the calculation was conducted by a numerical method. The result shows that the transverse stripe increases the inlet film thickness and the inlet zone length, while the longitudinal stripe decreases them. The surface roughness will enhance this effect. The surface roughness and the stripe direction also have a significant influence on the contact area ratio and the distribution of stress and film thickness in work zone. Transverse stripe increases the lubricant film thickness and separates the roll and the sheet with a larger distance in work zone. It also decreases the contact area ratio, the pressure stress and friction stress of the work zone. Whereas longitudinal stripe decreases the film thickness and increases the contact area ratio, pressure stress and friction stress. The surface roughness increases the contact area ratio, pressure stress and friction stress.
Free Vibration of Moderately Thick Conical Shells Using a Higher Order Shear Deformable Theory
Authors: Firouz-Abadi R. D. , Rahmanian M. , Amabili M.
Published: June 2014

The present study considers the free vibration analysis of moderately thick conical shells based on the Novozhilov theory. The higher order governing equations of motion and the associate boundary conditions are obtained for the first time. Using the Frobenius method, exact base solutions are obtained in the form of power series via general recursive relations which can be applied for any arbitrary boundary conditions. The obtained results are compared with the literature and very good agreement (up to 4%) is achieved. A comprehensive parametric study is performed to provide an insight into the variation of the natural frequencies with respect to thickness, semivertex angle, circumferential wave numbers for clamped (C), and simply supported (SS) boundary conditions.
A Nondimensional Analysis to Characterize Thermomagnetic Convection of a Temperature Sensitive Magnetic Fluid in a Flow Loop
Authors: Karimi-Moghaddam Giti , Gould Richard D. , Bhattacharya Subhashish
Published: June 2014

This paper presents results from theoretical and numerical studies of a single-phase, temperature sensitive magnetic fluid operating under steady-state laminar flow conditions in a partially heated thermomagnetic circulation loop under the influence of an external magnetic field (created by a solenoid). A one-dimensional theoretical model has been developed using scaling arguments to characterize thermomagnetic circulation in this loop in terms of the geometric length scales, magnetic fluid properties, and the strength of the imposed magnetic field. In parallel to this theoretical analysis, supporting numerical simulations using Comsol Multiphysics simulation software have been undertaken to obtain data for use in this 1D model. Comparison between experimental data and numerical simulation results and also a grid sensitivity analysis was carried out to validate the numerical simulation. A correlation for the nondimensional heat transfer (Nusselt number) as a function of the appropriate magnetic Rayleigh number and a correlation for the mass flow rate based on the system's properties are developed.
Anisotropic Ta2O5 waveguide etching using inductively coupled plasma etching
Authors: Muttalib Muhammad Firdaus A. , Chen Ruiqi Y. , Pearce Stuart J. , Charlton Martin D. B.
Published: June 2014

Smooth and vertical sidewall profiles are required to create low loss rib and ridge waveguides for integrated optical device and solid state laser applications. In this work, inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching processes are developed to produce high quality low loss tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) waveguides. A mixture of C4F8 and O2 gas are used in combination with chromium (Cr) hard mask for this purpose. In this paper, the authors make a detailed investigation of the etch process parameter window. Effects of process parameters such as ICP power, platen power, gas flow, and chamber pressure on etch rate and sidewall slope angle are investigated. Chamber pressure is found to be a particularly important factor, which can be used to tune the sidewall slope angle and so prevent undercut.
Systematic study of the growth and morphology of vapor deposited porous polymer membranes
Authors: Seidel Scott , Gupta Malancha
Published: June 2014

In this paper, the authors systematically study the growth and morphology of porous polymer membranes fabricated via initiated chemical vapor deposition. The porous polymer membranes are formed by simultaneous solid monomer deposition and polymerization. The authors demonstrate that the solid monomer serves as both a porogen and a template for the polymerization, and therefore, the final structure of the membrane can be tuned by controlling the physical deposition of the monomer. The results show that the mass of the deposited monomer has a large dependence on the monomer flow rate and a small dependence on the substrate temperature, whereas the thickness has a large dependence on both parameters. The large dependence of the monomer thickness on the substrate temperature is due to significant differences in the morphologies, ranging from three-dimensional growth of pillared microstructures at low substrate temperatures to two-dimensional and weblike growth as the substrate temperature is increased. The authors also demonstrate that the location of membrane formation can be controlled by patterning the surface energy of the underlying substrate. These results can be used to fabricate polymer membranes of controllable morphology and thickness for a variety of applications in filtration, tissue scaffolding, and catalytic supports. In addition, the principles of the technique can be extended to other vapor phase polymerization and chemical vapor deposition processes.
Effects of Dance on Depression, Physical Function, and Disability in Underserved Adults
Authors: Murrock Carolyn J. , Graor Christine Heifner
Published: June 2014

This study documented the feasibility and immediate effects of a dance intervention two times per week for 12 weeks on depression, physical function, and disability in older, underserved adults. The one-group, pretest–posttest study had a convenience sample of 40 participants recruited from a federally subsidized apartment complex located in an economically depressed, inner-city neighborhood. Depression, physical function, and disability were measured at baseline and 12 weeks. Average age was 63 years (SD = 7.9), 92% were female, and 75% were African American. At baseline, participants reported increased depression (M = 20.0, SD = 12.4), decreased physical function (M = 56.6, SD = 10.9), and increased disability limitations (M = 65.7, SD = 14.9). At posttest, paired t tests showed that the dance intervention significantly decreased depression, t = 6.11, p < .001, and disability, t = −2.70, p = .014, and significantly increased physical function, t = -2.74, p = .013. The results indicate that the 12-week dance intervention may be an effective adjunct therapy to improve depression, disability, and physical function in underserved adults.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA Enables Noninvasive Diagnosis of Heart Transplant Rejection
Authors: De Vlaminck Iwijn , Valantine Hannah A. , Snyder Thomas M. , Strehl Calvin , Cohen Garrett , Luikart Helen , Neff Norma F. , Okamoto Jennifer , Bernstein Daniel , Weisshaar Dana , Quake Stephen R. , Khush Kiran K.
Published: June 2014

In a prospective cohort study of heart transplant recipients, sequencing-based quantification of donor-derived DNA in plasma of recipients noninvasively diagnosed transplant rejection.
Hexon Hypervariable Region-Modified Adenovirus Type 5 (Ad5) Vectors Display Reduced Hepatotoxicity but Induce T Lymphocyte Phenotypes Similar to Ad5 Vectors
Authors: Teigler Jeffrey E. , Penaloza-MacMaster Pablo , Obeng Rebecca , Provine Nicholas M. , Larocca Rafael A. , Borducchi Erica N. , Barouch Dan H.
Published: June 2014

Hexon modification of adenovirus type 5 (Ad5) vectors with the hypervariable regions (HVRs) of Ad48 has been shown to allow Ad5HVR48 vectors to circumvent the majority of the preexisting Ad5-neutralizing antibodies. However, it remains unclear whether modifying hexon HVRs impacts innate or adaptive immune responses elicited by this vector. In this study, we investigated the influence of the HVR substitution of Ad5 on innate and adaptive immune responses following vaccination. Ad5HVR48 displayed an intermediate level of innate immune cytokines and chemokines relative to those of Ad5 and Ad48, consistent with its chimeric nature. Hepatotoxicity was observed after Ad5 immunization but not after Ad5HVR48 or Ad48 immunization. However, the CD8
+
T-cell responses elicited by Ad5HVR48 vectors displayed a partially exhausted phenotype, as evidenced by the sustained expression of programmed death 1 (PD-1), decreased effector-to-central memory conversion, and reduced memory recall responses, similar to those elicited by Ad5 vectors and in contrast to those induced by Ad48 vectors. Taken together, these results indicate that although Ad5HVR48 largely bypasses preexisting Ad5 neutralizing antibodies and shows reduced hepatotoxicity compared to that of Ad5, it induces adaptive immune phenotypes that are functionally exhausted similar to those elicited by Ad5.