bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative study of the relationships between residents and nursing homes nurses
Authors: Palacios‐Ceña Domingo , Losa‐Iglesias Marta Elena , Gómez‐Calero Cristina , Cachón‐Pérez José Miguel , Brea‐Rivero Miguel , Fernández‐de‐las‐Peñas César
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore the relationships between residents and nurses in Spanish nursing homes.

Background

The nurses are one of the elements conditioning the life of the nursing home resident, influencing sense of security and mediating the relationships among residents.

Design

A qualitative phenomenological approach was applied.

Methods

An initial purposeful sampling of Spanish residents from nursing homes in the southern area of Madrid was conducted. The study included nursing home residents, aged 60 and over, with no cognitive impairment and who were able to communicate verbally in Spanish. Data were collected using unstructured and semi‐structured interviews, researcher field notes, and personal diaries and letters from the residents. Data collection was concluded once theoretical saturation was reached, and data were analysed using the Giorgi proposal.

Results

Two main themes emerged: (1) ‘meeting the nursing home nurses,’ residents interact with nurses and establish relationships with them. The relationship is perceived as positive yet distant, and at times it is difficult to establish a closer relationship; and (2) ‘managing relationships with the nursing home nurses,’ residents learn to manage their relationships with the nurses, acquiring new behaviours to get closer to them, avoiding confrontations and helping each other.

Conclusions

Residents manage their relationships with nurses using multiple behavioural strategies. They perceive these adjustments as necessary to facilitate daily life or avoid problems and/or confrontations. Deepening the relationships between residents and nurses could improve the management of nursing homes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Dialogue and active listening with residents must be incorporated into the daily nursing care. It should be given the same attention to all residents, with special attention to residents with cognitive and functional difficulties.
Coronary heart disease patients transitioning to a normal life: perspectives and stages identified through a grounded theory approach
Authors: Najafi Ghezeljeh Tahereh , Yadavar Nikravesh Mansoureh , Emami Azita
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore how Iranian patients with coronary heart disease experience their lives.

Background

Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death in Iran and worldwide. Understanding qualitatively how patients experience the acute and postacute stages of this chronic condition is essential knowledge for minimising the negative consequences of coronary heart disease.

Design

Qualitative study using grounded theory for the data analysis.

Methods

Data for this study were collected through individual qualitative interviews with 24 patients with coronary heart disease, conducted between January 2009 and January 2011. Patients with angina pectoris were selected for participation through purposive sampling, and sample size was determined by data saturation. Data analysis began with initial coding and continued with focused coding. Categories were determined, and the core category was subsequently developed and finalised.

Results

The main categories of the transition from acute phase to a modified or ‘new normal’ life were: (1) Loss of normal life. Experiencing emotions and consequences of illness; (2) Coming to terms. Using coping strategies; (3) Recreating normal life. Healthcare providers must correctly recognise the stages of transition patients navigate while coping with coronary heart disease to support and educate them appropriately throughout these stages.

Conclusion

Patients with coronary heart disease lose their normal lives and must work towards recreating a revised life using coping strategies that enable them to come to terms with their situations.

Relevance to clinical practice

By understanding Iranian patients' experiences, healthcare providers and especially nurses can use the information to support and educate patients with coronary heart disease on how to more effectively deal with their illness and its consequences.
Student‐recruited samples in organizational research: A review, analysis, and guidelines for future research
Authors: Wheeler Anthony R. , Shanine Kristen K. , Leon Matthew R. , Whitman Marilyn V.
Published: November 2013

Student‐recruited sampling, a technique involving the use of student recruiters to find participants on behalf of a researcher, has been increasingly used in organizational research; yet there has been little attempt to understand its implications for the conclusions scholars draw from research. In this study, we meta‐analyse studies of engagement and perceptions of politics in order to examine whether student‐recruited sampling leads to samples that differ from other samples and whether those differences result in different observed relationships between variables. We found that student‐recruited samples were not substantively demographically different from non‐student‐recruited samples. Further, we found few differences in the observed correlations of student‐recruited samples compared with non‐student‐recruited samples; the differences found would not lead to different practical conclusions from the findings. We discuss the implications of these results for future studies and provide guidance for researchers, reviewers, and editors regarding the use of student‐recruited samples in organizational research.

Practitioner points

The type of sample used can lead to over‐ or under‐representation of demographic characteristics with the sample, which has unknown affects on analyses of data.

Student‐recruited samples may lead to smaller effect sizes of observed statistical relationships.
Suppression of mast cell activity contributes to the osteoprotective effect of an herbal formula containing Herba Epimedii, Fructus Ligustri Lucidi and Fructus Psoraleae
Authors: Chan Ben Chung Lap , Lee Hoi Ying , Siu Wing Sum , Yip Kwok Ho , Ko Chun Hay , Lau Clara Bik San , Leung Ping Chung , Lau Hang Yung Alaster
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Mast cells are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis as their number is increased in osteoporotic bones. Herba Epimedii, Fructus Ligustri Lucidi and Fructus Psoraleae are three Chinese herbs traditionally for tonifying the ‘kidney system’ and a herbal formula (ELP) containing the respective herbs at the weight ratio of 5 : 4 : 1 was shown to prevent osteoporosis. This study evaluated if suppression of mast cell accumulation and activity contribute to the anti-osteoporotic action of ELP.

Methods

The herbs were boiled under reflux to produce the aqueous extract that was further concentrated under reduced pressure and lyophilized. An in-vivo rat osteoporosis model using hind limb unloading was employed for studying the accumulation of mast cells. The human mast cell line, LAD2, was employed to evaluate the mast cell modulating action of ELP.

Key findings

Mast cell number in the tibiae of hind limb unloaded rats increased significantly during the course of osteoporosis. ELP treatment (10 g/kg/day) prevented both osteoporosis and mast cell accumulation in these rats. Furthermore, ELP significantly inhibited histamine and tumour necrosis factor-α release from LAD2 cells.

Conclusion

Mast cells contributed to hormone independent osteoporosis. The suppression of mast cell accumulation and activation may contribute to the anti-osteoporotic action of ELP.
Simpson's Method of Discs for Measurement of Echocardiographic End‐Diastolic and End‐Systolic Left Ventricular Volumes: Breed‐Specific Reference Ranges in Boxer Dogs
Authors: Smets P. , Daminet S. , Wess G.
Published: November 2013

Background

Boxer dogs are predisposed to congenital and adult onset cardiac diseases. Breed‐specific reference values for M‐mode and Doppler echocardiographic measurements previously have been established. Left ventricular (LV) end‐systolic (ESV) and end‐diastolic volumes (EDV) can be measured by M‐mode or two‐dimensional methods, such as Simpson's method of discs (SMOD). Reference ranges for SMOD‐derived LV volumes are lacking.

Objectives

To determine reference intervals for EDV and ESV in Boxer dogs.

Animals

Previously collected data from 85 healthy Boxers (37 males and 48 females) were used for analysis.

Methods

Simpson's method of discs‐derived EDV and ESV were measured using offline analysis by 1 observer, in both the right parasternal and the left apical views. Measurements were compared between both views and between male and female dogs using a t‐test. Reference intervals were established using the mean + 2 × SD.

Results

Measurements obtained from both views showed good agreement, and mean EDVI and ESVI, indexed to body surface area (BSA), were calculated. Reference intervals were 49–93 mL/m² for EDVI, and 22–50 mL/m² for ESVI. EDV and ESV were significantly higher in males compared with females, when indexing to BSA, but not when indexing to body weight.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

The upper limit for ESVI exceeds the previously suggested cut‐off of 30 mL/m² for detection of systolic dysfunction. The reference intervals generated in this study should be useful clinically in the assessment of LV size and function in Boxer dogs.
Emissions Trading with Non‐signatories in a Climate Agreement—an Analysis of Coalition Stability
Authors: Lessmann Kai , Marschinski Robert , Finus Michael , Kornek Ulrike , Edenhofer Ottmar
Published: October 2013

We investigate how different designs of carbon offset mechanisms, like theKyotoProtocol'sCleanDevelopmentMechanism (CDM), affect the success of self‐enforcing climate treaties. In a game‐theoretic numerical model of coalition formation we find that participation in the agreement is negatively affected when strategic behavior and free‐rider incentives matter. This does not change when selling targets restrict credit supply. Substantially higher participation emerges when the treaty restricts its signatories not to use the gains from credit trading to lower their emission caps. Despite the high sensitivity of participation to differentCDMdesign, we find that global welfare levels achieved in various equilibria are remarkably similar.
The phytotoxic activity of the cerato‐platanin BcSpl1 resides in a two‐peptide motif on the protein surface
Authors: Frías Marcos , Brito Nélida , González Mario , González Celedonio
Published: November 2013

Cerato‐platanin family proteins are secreted and have been found in both the fungal cell wall and the extracellular medium. They elicit defence responses in a variety of plants and have been proposed to be perceived as pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by the plant immune system, although, in the case of the necrotroph Botrytis cinerea, the cerato‐platanin BcSpl1 contributes to fungal virulence instead of plant resistance. In this study, we report that BcSpl1, which was previously found in the secretome as an abundant protein, is even more abundant in the fungal cell wall. By fusion to green fluorescent protein (GFP), we also show that BcSpl1 associates with the plant plasma membrane causing rapid morphological changes at the cellular level, such as the disorganization of chloroplasts, prior to macroscopic necrosis in the treated tissue. By a combination of serial deletion studies, synthetic peptides and chimeric proteins, we mapped the eliciting activity to a two‐peptide motif in the protein surface. The expression of a chimeric protein displaying this motif in B. cinerea mutants lacking BcSpl1 undoubtedly showed that the motif is responsible for the contribution of BcSpl1 to virulence.
Analysis of the transcriptome of Hirschmanniella oryzae to explore potential survival strategies and host–nematode interactions
Authors: Bauters Lander , Haegeman Annelies , Kyndt Tina , Gheysen Godelieve
Published: November 2013

The rice root nematode Hirschmanniella oryzae is the most abundant plant‐parasitic nematode in flooded rice fields and is distributed world‐wide. Although it is economically less important than sedentary nematodes, it can cause severe yield reductions and economic losses in specific environmental conditions. No transcriptome data for this genus were available until now. We have performed 454 sequencing on a mixed life stages population to gain an insight into nematode–plant interactions and nematode survival strategies. The results of two assembly strategies were combined to reduce the redundancy of the data, generating a final dataset of 21 360 contigs. The data were screened for putative plant cell wall‐modifying proteins, which facilitate nematode migration through host roots. A β‐mannanase, previously not reported in nematodes, was detected in the dataset. The data were screened for putative effector proteins that may alter the host defence mechanism. Two enzymes, chorismate mutase and isochorismatase, thought to be involved in the salicyclic acid pathway, were identified. Experimental treatments of H. oryzae with artificial seawater showed that late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins and SXP/RAL‐2 are induced, suggesting that these proteins are involved in the process of anhydrobiosis. The newly generated data can highlight potential differences between sedentary and migratory nematodes, and will be useful in the further study of host–nematode interactions and the developmental biology of this nematode.
Limited genetic variability and phenotypic plasticity detected for cavitation resistance in a Mediterranean pine
Authors: Lamy Jean‐Baptiste , Delzon Sylvain , Bouche Pauline S. , Alia Ricardo , Vendramin Giovanni Giuseppe , Cochard Hervé , Plomion Christophe
Published: November 2013

Resistance to cavitation is a major determinant of plant survival under severe drought and can be used to quantify species adaptive potential. Interspecific variation in this key trait is well defined in woody species, but intraspecific variation (level and structure) resulting from standing genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity has never been determined.

Combining for the first time in situ characterization of natural populations and two reciprocal common gardens in dry and wet sites, we estimated variance components (phenotypic, genetic, environmental, and genetic × environmental) of cavitation resistance based on 513 genotypes of a Mediterranean pine, Pinus pinaster.

Despite the selected populations being climatically contrasted, phenotypic plasticity in resistance to cavitation remained low and was essentially attributed to family level. Between‐population variation in cavitation resistance for both phenotypic and genetic variation was limited.

These results strongly suggest that cavitation resistance is buffered against genetic and to a lesser extent environmental variation (canalization) in maritime pine. Consequently, in a drier world, the increasing drought tolerance of Pinus species might be severely constrained by the low level of cavitation resistance variation, resulting in a large‐scale loss of productivity.
Life histories of hosts and pathogens predict patterns in tropical fungal plant diseases
Authors: García‐Guzmán Graciela , Heil Martin
Published: October 2013

Plant pathogens affect the fitness of their hosts and maintain biodiversity. However, we lack theories to predict the type and intensity of infections in wild plants. Here we demonstrate using fungal pathogens of tropical plants that an examination of the life histories of hosts and pathogens can reveal general patterns in their interactions. Fungal infections were more commonly reported for light‐demanding than for shade‐tolerant species and for evergreen rather than for deciduous hosts. Both patterns are consistent with classical defence theory, which predicts lower resistance in fast‐growing species and suggests that the deciduous habit can reduce enemy populations. In our literature survey, necrotrophs were found mainly to infect shade‐tolerant woody species whereas biotrophs dominated in light‐demanding herbaceous hosts. Far‐red signalling and its inhibitory effects on jasmonic acid signalling are likely to explain this phenomenon. Multiple changes between the necrotrophic and the symptomless endophytic lifestyle at the ecological and evolutionary scale indicate that endophytes should be considered when trying to understand large‐scale patterns in the fungal infections of plants. Combining knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of pathogen resistance with classical defence theory enables the formulation of testable predictions concerning general patterns in the infections of wild plants by fungal pathogens.

Contents

Summary
1106

I.
Plant pathogens in tropical ecosystems
1107

II.
Questions and patterns
1109

III.
Pathogens as destructors and constructors
1109

IV.
Questions and patterns
1110

V.
Endophytes as a reservoir of necrotrophic pathogens?
1111

VI.
Plant resistance to necrotrophs and biotrophs
1111

VII.
Plant defence theory
1113

VIII.
General patterns in fungal infections of tropical plants
1114

IX.
Explaining patterns
1114

X.
Conclusions and outlook
1116

Acknowledgements
1117

References
1117
The novel allele of the LhMYB12 gene is involved in splatter‐type spot formation on the flower tepals of Asiatic hybrid lilies (Lilium spp.)
Authors: Yamagishi Masumi , Toda Shinya , Tasaki Keisuke
Published: November 2013

Many angiosperm families develop spatially regulated anthocyanin spots on their flowers. The Asiatic hybrid lily (Lilium spp.) cv ‘Latvia’ develops splatter‐type spots on its tepals. The splatters arise simply from the deposition of anthocyanin pigments in the tepal epidermis.

To determine how splatter development was regulated, we analysed the transcription of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes, and isolated and characterized an R2R3‐MYB gene specific to splatter pigmentation.

All anthocyanin biosynthesis genes were expressed in splatter‐containing regions of tepals, but not in other regions, indicating that splatter pigmentation is caused by the transcriptional regulation of biosynthesis genes. Previously characterized LhMYB12 regulators were not involved in splatter pigmentation, but, instead, a new allele of the LhMYB12 gene, LhMYB12‐Lat, isolated in this study, contributed to splatter development. In ‘Latvia’ and other lily plants expressing splatters, LhMYB12‐Lat was preferentially transcribed in the splatter‐containing region of tepals. Progeny segregation analysis showed that LhMYB12‐Lat genotype and splatter phenotype were co‐segregated among the F1 population, indicating that LhMYB12‐Lat determines the presence or absence of splatters.

LhMYB12‐Lat contributes to splatter development, but not to full‐tepal pigmentation and raised spot pigmentation. As a result of its unique sequences and different transcription profiles, this new allele of LhMYB12 should be a novel R2R3‐MYB specifically associating with splatter spot development.
The LOSS OF APOMEIOSIS (LOA) locus in Hieracium praealtum can function independently of the associated large‐scale repetitive chromosomal structure
Authors: Kotani Yoshiko , Henderson Steven T. , Suzuki Go , Johnson Susan D. , Okada Takashi , Siddons Hayley , Mukai Yasuhiko , Koltunow Anna M. G.
Published: November 2013

Apomixis or asexual seed formation in Hieracium praealtum (Asteraceae) is controlled by two independent dominant loci. One of these, the LOSS OF APOMEIOSIS (LOA) locus, controls apomixis initiation, mitotic embryo sac formation (apospory) and suppression of the sexual pathway. The LOA locus is found near the end of a hemizygous chromosome surrounded by extensive repeats extending along the chromosome arm. Similar apomixis‐carrying chromosome structures have been found in some apomictic grasses, suggesting that the extensive repetitive sequences may be functionally relevant to apomixis.

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to examine chromosomes of apomeiosis deletion mutants and rare recombinants in the critical LOA region arising from a cross between sexual Hieracium pilosella and apomictic H. praealtum.

The combined analyses of aposporous and nonaposporous recombinant progeny and chromosomal karyotypes were used to determine that the functional LOA locus can be genetically separated from the very extensive repeat regions found on the LOA‐carrying chromosome.

The large‐scale repetitive sequences associated with the LOA locus in H. praealtum are not essential for apospory or suppression of sexual megasporogenesis (female meiosis).
Is phosphorus intake that exceeds dietary requirements a risk factor in bone health?
Authors: Calvo Mona S. , Tucker Katherine L.
Published: November 2013

Phosphorus intake in excess of the nutrient needs of healthy adults is thought to disrupt hormonal regulation of phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), and vitamin D, contributing to impaired peak bone mass, bone resorption, and greater risk of fracture. Elevation of extracellular phosphorus due to excessive intake is thought to be the main stimulus disrupting phosphorus homeostasis in healthy individuals, as it is in renal disease even when intake is modest. If high serum phosphorus is the critical link to the effect of high phosphorus intake on bone health, the issue could be addressed through epidemiologic or dietary studies. However, several confounding factors, including problems estimating accurate phosphorus intake, the influence of a low dietary Ca:P ratio, the acidic nature of phosphorus, the rapid rate of absorption and greater phosphorus bioavailability from processed food such as cola drinks, and circadian fluctuation in serum phosphorus, make this question difficult to address using conventional study designs. These confounding factors are considered in this review, exploring whether phosphorus intake exceeding nutrient needs in healthy individuals disrupts phosphorus regulation and negatively affects bone accretion or loss. Specific attention is given to phosphorus intake from processed foods rich in phosphorus additives, which significantly contribute to phosphorus intake.
Prevalence of choroidal naevi using scanning laser ophthalmoscope
Authors: Gordon‐Shaag Ariela , Barnard Simon , Millodot Michel , Gantz Liat , Chiche Gabrielle , Vanessa Elbaz , Ruth Wolff , Pinchasov Rima , Gosman Zoya , Simchi Merav , Koslowe Kenneth , Shneor Einat
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of choroidal naevi in a healthy population using an ultra‐wide scanning laser ophthalmoscope which can capture up to a 200° field of view of the retina, without pupil dilation.

Methods

Subjects were recruited from a college population. Each subject underwent an eye examination that included retinal and choroidal imaging using the Optos scanning laser ophthalmoscope and completed a self‐administered questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate regression analysis were performed to identify associated factors with choroidal naevi.

Results

The Optomap images of 406 participants (mean age 23.5 ± 4.4) were analysed. Thirty‐nine subjects (10%) presented with at least one naevus in one eye, and multiple naevi were observed unilaterally in eight subjects. Drusen were noted in only one eye. The mean naevus diameter was 2.38 mm (±2.07). Prevalence was not associated with either eye colour, time spent outdoors, visual impairment, or ethnic group, but was significantly associated with male gender (OR 2.41, p = 0.009), blond/red hair colour (OR 2.42, p = 0.037), skin that neither burns nor tans (OR 2.8, p = 0.02) and habitual sunglasses use (OR 0.33, p = 0.002).

Conclusions

A higher prevalence of choroidal naevi was detected in this college population compared to other population‐based studies. This is likely due to the use of an ultra‐wide field scanning laser ophthalmoscope which provides up to 200° of the fundus. The naevi were associated with several factors.
Xmrk‐induced melanoma progression is affected by Sdf1 signals through Cxcr7
Authors: Liedtke Daniel , Erhard Isabell , Abe Keiko , Furutani‐Seiki Makoto , Kondoh Hisato , Schartl Manfred
Published: November 2013

Chemokine signals mediated by Sdf1/Cxcl12 through the chemokine receptor Cxcr4 are thought to play an instructive role in tumor migration and organ‐specific metastasis. We have used a small aquarium fish model to contribute to a better understanding of how the course of melanoma development is influenced by Sdf1 signals in vivo. We studied oncogene‐induced skin tumor appearance and progression in the transgenic medaka (Oryzias latipes) melanoma model. Similar to humans, invasive medaka melanomas show increased levels of sdf1, cxcr4, and cxcr7 gene expression. Stable transgenic fish lines overexpressing sdf1 exclusively in pigment cells showed a reduction in melanoma appearance and progression. Remarkably, diminished levels of functional Cxcr7, but not of Cxcr4b, resulted in strongly reduced melanoma invasiveness and a repression of melanoma. Our results thereby indicate that Sdf1 signals via Cxcr7 are able to constrain melanoma growth in vivo and that these signals influence tumor outcome.
Mental disorders that exacerbated due to the Fukushima disaster, a complex radioactive contamination disaster
Authors: Matsumoto Junya , Kunii Yasuto , Wada Akira , Mashiko Hirobumi , Yabe Hirooki , Niwa Shin‐ichi
Published: November 2013

Aim

The Fukushima disaster was caused by an earthquake that occurred on 11 March 2011. Following the serious damage caused by the earthquake and the subsequent tsunami, radioactive contamination occurred because of the meltdown accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant. We investigated what mental disorders were likely to become exacerbated under these conditions.

Methods

We surveyed psychiatric outpatients at Fukushima Medical University Hospital for 1 month (31 days) from the day of the earthquake (March–April 2011).

Results

The survey revealed that bipolar I disorder was most likely to become exacerbated under the conditions and that the exacerbation exhibited was more likely to involve manic switches than depression.

Conclusion

On the basis of the results of our study, particular care must be taken to follow up bipolar I disorder patients after a natural disaster. Our results also suggested the possible origin of bipolar I disorder.
Effects of enuresis nocturna on parents of affected children: Case–control study
Authors: Tanrıverdi Mehmet Halis , Palancı Yılmaz , Yılmaz Ahmet , Penbegül Necmettin , Bez Yasin , Dağgülli Mansur
Published: November 2013

Background

Enuresis nocturna (EN) is a chronic medical disorder that may cause a parent to question their parenting ability and contribute to an inability to perform the parental role. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of EN on the relationship between parents, and the effect of mood changes in the couples on the children.

Methods

Forty children with EN (group 1) were enrolled in the study, and 44 consecutive healthy children (group 2) were randomly selected from the same school. The clinical diagnosis for the patient group was based on a careful history. Spielberg's State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) were applied to all parents, and the answers were recorded.

Results

STAI scores differed between the mothers in the two groups in terms of trait anxiety, while significant differences between the fathers in terms of both state and trait anxiety were observed. The BDI scores were similar between the two groups. The scores of dyadic consensus were lower in the mothers, while the affectional expression scores were lower in the EN study group fathers compared with controls. The total DAS scores were significantly lower in the parents of the children with EN.

Conclusion

The parents of children with EN seem to experience increased levels of anxiety. Their desire to continue the marital relationship, the overall quality of their marital relationship and their comfort as a family may also be negatively affected by having a child with EN.
Glycated nail proteins: a new approach for detecting diabetes in developing countries
Authors: Kishabongo Antoine Sadiki , Katchunga Philippe , Van Aken Elisabeth H. , Speeckaert Marijn M. , Lagniau Sabrina , Husein Dashty , Taes Youri E. , Delanghe Joris R.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To assess glycation of nail proteins as a tool in the diagnosis of diabetes.

Methods

Glycation of nail proteins was assessed using a modified photometric nitroblue tetrazolium‐based assay, which provides information about average glucose values of the last 6–9 months. Analysis is possible on 10 mg of nail clippings with a within‐run coefficient of variation (CV) of 11%. The analyte is extremely stable. The reference range for glycated nail protein (0.55–3.60 μmol/g nail) increases upon ageing.

Results

In diabetics (n = 112), values for glycated nail protein are significantly higher (median: 4.07 μmol/g nail, IQR: 2.37–6.89 μmol/g nail, P < 0.0001) than in non‐diabetics (n = 116). ROC analysis shows an AUC of 0.848 (specificity 93.1%; sensitivity 68.9%).

Conclusion

This affordable method is a simple alternative for diagnosing diabetes in remote areas as the pre‐analytical phase (including all processes from the time a laboratory request is made by a physician until the sample is ready for testing) is extremely robust.
Hemolytic anemia after ingestion of the natural hair dye Lawsonia inermis (henna) in a dog
Authors: Jardes Daniel J. , Ross Linda A. , Markovich Jessica E.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To describe the clinical presentation and case management of a dog that developed hemolytic anemia and evidence of renal tubular dysfunction after ingestion of a natural hair dye containing Lawsonia inermis (henna). To review cases of henna toxicity reported in the human literature.

Case Summary

An 8‐year‐old female spayed Border Collie was presented 5 days after ingestion of a box of natural hair dye. The dog was showing signs of lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness. A serum biochemistry profile, complete blood count, and urinalysis demonstrated evidence of renal tubular dysfunction and a regenerative anemia without spherocytosis. The dog was treated with a transfusion of packed RBCs and IV fluids, resulting in significant clinical improvement. Repeat diagnostics showed resolution of the anemia and no lasting evidence of tubular dysfunction.

New or Unique Information Provided

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case in the veterinary literature of toxicity following ingestion of Lawsonia inermis (henna). Henna ingestion was associated with the development of hemolytic anemia and acute kidney injury.
Integrating preventive and curative non‐chemical weed control strategies for concrete block pavements
Authors: De Cauwer B , Fagot M , Beeldens A , Boonen E , Bulcke R , Reheul D
Published: October 2013

Reduction in herbicide use in non‐agricultural areas is being imposed by a growing number of governments, triggering the development of alternative strategies for weed prevention and control. This study aimed to determine the weed preventive abilities of different paving types, the required treatment frequency of non‐chemical weed control scenarios on these pavements and the associated weed species composition. A test parking area, constructed with four concrete paving types, was sown with a mixture of dominant weed species. Six scenarios with repeated use of a single weed control method (brushing with waste removal, hot air, selective application of hot water and three scenarios with flaming) and two scenarios with alternating use of brushes and hot air were applied to control the weeds during two growing seasons. Treatments were applied at well‐defined intervention moments, based upon weed development. Over 2 years, the paving types differed in weed coverage (up to a fourfold difference) and required varying treatment frequency (up to a 11‐fold difference) with lowest values for pavings with porous pavers. Within most paving types, up to 28% lower treatment frequencies were found for selective application of hot water, as compared with all other single method scenarios. Shifts in weed composition occurred in plots treated repeatedly with the same technique. Paving type determined the chances for the establishment of different weed species and alternating non‐chemical control methods with different modes of action offered the best opportunity to keep weeds under control.
Effect of Impact Angle on Slurry Erosion Behavior and Mechanisms of Carburized AISI 5117 Steel
Authors: Abd-Elrhman Y. M. , Abouel-Kasem A. , Emara K. M. , Ahmed S. M.
Published: October 2013

The paper reports the influence of carburizing on the slurry erosion behavior of AISI 5117 steel using a whirling-arm rig. The microstructure and hardness profile of the surface layer of carburized steel were investigated. For characterizing the slurry damage process and for better understanding of material removal at different angles, scanning electron microscope (SEM) images at different locations on eroded surface using stepwise erosion combined with relocation SEM were presented. The study is also focused on studying the erosion wear resistance properties of AISI 5117 steel after carburizing at different impact angles. The tests were carried out with particle concentration of 1 wt. %, and the impact velocity of slurry stream was 15 m/s. Silica sand has a nominal size range of 250 – 355 μm was used as an erodent. The results showed that, carburizing process of steel increased the erosion resistance and hardness compared with untreated material for all impact angles. The erosion resistance of AISI 5117 steel increases by 75%, 61%, 33%, 10% at an impact angle of 30 deg, 45 deg, 60 deg, and 90 deg, respectively, as result of carburizing, i.e., the effectiveness of carburizing was the highest at low impact angles. Treated and untreated specimens behaved as ductile material, and the maximum mass loss appeared at impact angle of 45 deg. Plough grooves and cutting lips appeared for acute impact angle, but the material extrusions were for normal impact angles. The erosion traces were wider and deeper for untreated specimens comparing by the shallower and superficial ones for the carburized specimens. Chipping of the former impact sites by subsequent impact particles plays an important role in developing erosion.
A New Approach for Studying Cavitation in Lubrication
Authors: Almqvist Andreas , Fabricius John , Larsson Roland , Wall Peter
Published: October 2013

The underlying theory, in this paper, is based on clear physical arguments related to conservation of mass flow and considers both incompressible and compressible fluids. The result of the mathematical modeling is a system of equations with two unknowns, which are related to the hydrodynamic pressure and the degree of saturation of the fluid. Discretization of the system leads to a linear complementarity problem (LCP), which easily can be solved numerically with readily available standard methods and an implementation of a model problem in matlab code is made available for the reader of the paper. The model and the associated numerical solution method have significant advantages over today's most frequently used cavitation algorithms, which are based on Elrod–Adams pioneering work.
Mild Hybridization via Electrification of the Air System: Electrically Assisted and Variable Geometry Turbocharging Impact on an Off-Road Diesel Engine
Authors: Terdich Nicola , Martinez-Botas Ricardo F. , Romagnoli Alessandro , Pesiridis Apostolos
Published: October 2013

Electric turbocharger assistance consists in incorporating an electric motor/generator within the turbocharger bearing housing to form a mild hybrid system without altering other mechanical parts of the engine. This makes it an ideal and economical short-to-medium-term solution for the reduction of CO2 emissions. The scope of the paper is to assess the improvements in engine energy efficiency and transient response correlated to the hybridization of the air system. To achieve this, an electrically assisted turbocharger with a variable geometry turbine has been compared to a similar, not hybridized system over step changes of engine load. The variable geometry turbine has been controlled to provide different levels of initial boost, including one optimized for efficiency, and to change its flow capacity during the transient. The engine modeled is a 7-liter, 6-cylinder diesel engine with a power output of over 200 kW and a sub-10-kW turbocharger electric assistance power. To improve the accuracy of the model, the turbocharger turbine has been experimentally characterized by means of a unique testing facility available at Imperial College and the data has been extrapolated by means of a turbine meanline model. Optimization of the engine boost to minimize pumping losses has shown a reduction in brake-specific fuel consumption up to 4.2%. By applying electric turbocharger assistance, it has been possible to recover the loss in engine transient response of the efficiency-optimized system, as it causes a reduction in engine speed drop of 71%–86% and of 79%–94% in engine speed recovery time. When electric assistance is present in the turbocharger, actuating the turbine vanes to assist transient response has not produced the desired result but only a decrement in energy efficiency. If the variable geometry turbine is opened during transients, an improvement in specific energy efficiency with negligible decrement in engine transient performances has been achieved.
Porous Silicon-Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Complexes and Impact on Negative Contrast Enhancement in MRI
Authors: Lundquist Charles M. , Loo Christopher H. , Mack Aaron , Gu Jianhua , Bankson Jim A. , Serda Rita E.
Published: November 2013

Purpose: Encapsulation of contrast agent within a nanoporous matrix has been shown to enhance contrast performance. Previous investigators have shown an up to 40-fold increase in T1 image contrast enhancement of gadolinium with encapsulation in carbon nanotubes. In this study we examined silicon encapsulation as a means of contrast enhancement in superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) using a particle-agarose phantom. Methods: 1μm discoidal pSi particles were loaded with 30 nm SPIONs through capillary action. Loaded particle preparations along with free SPION controls were homogeneously distributed within an agarose substrate and imaged using a 7-tesla small-bore MRI. ICP-AES was used to determine the concentration of free elemental iron in sample preparations. Results: Silicon encapsulation of 30nm SPIONs did not result in a clinically significant enhancement of negative contrast (T2 and T2*) in MRI. However, it is unclear the extent to which limited diffusion of water protons, both through silicon encapsulation and the use of an agarose substrate, counteracts the theoretical increase in relaxivity due to aggregation.
Seismic/acoustic detection of ground and air traffic for unattended ground sensor technology
Authors: Herdic Peter C. , Houston Brian H. , Frank Phillip A. , Baden Robert M.
Published: October 2013

Human footfall and vehicle traffic create surface waves in soil media that can easily be detected by seismic sensors. Field measurement data have been acquired with a triaxial geophone at several experimental sites. The in-plane-surface wave components dominate the response and decay at a rate of approximately 1/R, where R is distance. This decay rate is due to the combined effect of spreading (1/sqrt(R)) and damping losses in the soil. Further, the detection range is dependent upon the level of environmental noise, soil compliance, moisture content, and topography. Human detection was achieved in rural environments at distances up to ∼30–40 m, and vehicle detection was possible at much greater distances. Seismic signals due to aircraft are small when compared to the acoustic signature. Ground-based microphone measurements clearly show the blade passage frequency tones of propeller airplanes and the broader band signature of turbojet aircraft. Time- and frequency-domain signal-processing methods for the detection and identification will also be introduced. These experimental results will be discussed with particular emphasis placed on wave phenomenon, detection and identification algorithms, and the related physics.
Microbubble spectroscopy of ultrasound contrast agents
Authors: van der Meer Sander , Dollet Benjamin , Chin Chien T. , Bouakaz Ayache , Voormolen Marco , de Jong Nico , Versluis Michel , Lohse Detlef
Published: October 2013

We present a new optical characterization of the behavior of single ultrasound contrast bubbles. The method consists of insonifying individual bubbles several times successively sweeping the applied frequency and recording movies of the bubble response up to 25 million frames per second with an ultra-high-speed camera operated in a segmented mode. The method, termed microbubble spectroscopy, enables one to reconstruct a resonance curve of the oscillating bubble in a single run. We analyze the data through a linearized model for coated bubbles. The results confirm the significant influence of the shell on the bubble dynamics: shell elasticity increases the resonance frequency by about 50%, and shell viscosity is responsible for about 70% of the total damping. The obtained value for shell elasticity is in quantitative agreement with previously reported values. The shell viscosity decreases significantly with the dilatation rate, revealing the nonlinear behavior of the phospholipid coating.
Acoustic travel-time tomography of temperature and wind velocity fields in the atmosphere
Authors: Ostashev Vladimir E. , Vecherin Sergey N. , Wilson D. Keith , Ziemann Astrid , Barth Manuela , Arnold Klaus
Published: October 2013

Acoustic tomography of the atmosphere allows one to reconstruct (estimate) temperature and wind velocity fields in the atmosphere and to monitor the evolution of these turbulent fields in time. In the present paper, we report on a progress in construction of a state-of-the-art array for acoustic tomography of the atmosphere, which will allow us to measure travel times of sound propagation between different pairs of sources and receivers within a few meters above the ground. Using these travel times, the turbulent fields will then be reconstructed using different inversion algorithms. The array is being built at the Boulder Atmospheric Observatory, CO, in a collaborative effort between several organizations in the U.S. Furthermore, we discuss several inverse algorithms for estimation of the turbulent fields, including recently developed time-dependent stochastic inversion. Finally, some of these algorithms were used to reconstruct temperature and wind velocity fields in indoor and outdoor tomography experiments carried out by scientists from the Institute of Meteorology, University of Leipzig, Germany. Examples of the reconstructed fields are given. [Work supported by ARO, Grants DAAD19-03-1-0104 and W911NF-06-1-0007.]
Rainfall estimation using SORFED (SOund Recording For EDucation)
Authors: Lezamiz Lucas B.
Published: October 2013

Underwater sound provides an abundance of information about the environment, both natural and man-made. Using an underwater hydrophone and a webcam above the water’s surface, the SORFED website gathers and stores ambient noise from Lake Union 24 hours a day, 30 days at a time. Users can explore the sound signatures of different weather events and human activity on the lake by listening to audio clips side by side with video from the webcam. This website was used as the primary tool for teaching high school students in Seattle how to estimate rainfall by listening to underwater noise. Students worked in teams to calibrate underwater noise to rain rate, then used this relationship to estimate rain rate as a function of time on other days based on the noise level recorded in the lake. Total rainfall was then found by integration. Using similar techniques, students can explore other topics including shipping rate estimation, human behavior and activity, signal-to-noise ratio, and concepts in differentiation and integration.
Variability of field-based hearing protection device attenuation measurements
Authors: Neitzel Richard , Somers Sebrina , Seixas Noah
Published: October 2013

HPD attenuation is highly dependent on individual-specific fit. Prediction of an individual’s attenuation depends on measurement system accuracy and attenuation variability due to HPD refitting. This study compared attenuation measurements from two systems [one real-ear-attenuation-at-threshold (REAT) and the other microphone-in-real-ear (MIRE)] on workers using two earplugs (foam and custom-molded). Workers’ perceptions of the earplugs were also evaluated. Individual’s attenuation results were summarized as personal attenuation ratings (PARs). Variability in PARs from between-subject, between-day, and within-day differences was used to determine the lower confidence limit, or uncertainty factor (UF), of an individual’s attenuation. The custom-molded earplug PARs achieved a higher percentage of labeled attenuation than did the foam earplug with both test systems, and also had higher overall acceptance among workers. MIRE PAR levels were lower than REAT levels for both earplugs, but the relationship between the two test systems was highly variable. The MIRE system had lower within-day variability than the REAT system. One individual’s MIRE results were highly influential; removal of these results greatly reduced the UF for the custom-molded earplug/MIRE combination. UFs ranged from 8.8 to 13.5 dB. These findings highlight the importance of evaluating variability in individuals’ HPD attenuation, rather than relying on single measurements.
Auditory grammar: The event construction model and spoken language
Authors: Nakajima Yoshitaka
Published: October 2013

Several auditory illusions are accounted for by using the event construction model as presented by Nakajima et al. (2000) in order to explain the gap transfer illusion. In this model, the perceptual system detects and processes onsets and offsets of sounds as if they were independent elements. Temporal edges of sounds and their perceptual attributes are combined to construct auditory events obeying the proximity principle in time and frequency. For example, the onset and offset of a Chinese syllable belonging physically to different tones can be combined if close enough in time and frequency. The listener often hears a syllable with a lexical tone resulting from this illusory connection. Illusory attribution of perceptual features also occurs in nonspeech tones. One demonstration where only an offset of a glide is presented shows the mechanism; a very short illusory tone with no physical counterpart is perceived. Probably, the perceptual system looks for an onset to connect with the offset, but fails and is forced to restore an onset. Our attempts to connect this model to speech perception and pitch perception are presented along with some novel demonstrations. [Work supported by JSPS and 21st Century COE, Kyushu University.]