bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental outcomes in children with congenital cerebellar malformations
Authors: Pinchefsky Elana F , Accogli Andrea , Shevell Michael I , Saint‐Martin Christine , Srour Myriam
Published: October 2018

Aim

Neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with congenital cerebellar malformations (CCMs) remain poorly defined. We aimed to assess whether specific neuroimaging features in CCM patients correlate with neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Method

Hospital records and neuroimaging of 67 children with CCMs were systematically reviewed. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess associations between specific imaging features and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Results

CCM categories were distributed as follows: 28 percent isolated vermis hypoplasia (n=19), 28 percent global cerebellar hypoplasia (n=19), 15 percent Dandy–Walker malformation (n=10), 13 percent pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH, n=9), 9 percent molar tooth malformation (n=6), 3 percent rhombencephalosynapsis (n=2), and 3 percent unilateral cerebellar malformation (n=2). Overall, 85 percent (55/65) of the cohort had global developmental delay (GDD). Intellectual disability was present in 61 percent (27/43) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in 12 percent (6/52). Adjusting for supratentorial malformations and presence of genetic findings, severe GDD was associated with cerebellar hypoplasia (p=0.049) and PCH (p=0.030), whereas children with vermis hypoplasia were less likely to have severe GDD (p=0.003). Presence of supratentorial abnormalities was not significantly associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcome but was associated with epilepsy.

Interpretation

Children with CCMs have high prevalence of neurodevelopmental deficits. Specific features on imaging can aid prognostication and establish early intervention strategies.

What this paper adds

Atypical long‐term neurodevelopmental outcome is very common in patients with congenital cerebellar malformations (CCMs).

Involvement of the brainstem and cerebellar hemispheres predicts more severe neurodevelopmental disability.

Most patients with vermis hypoplasia have language delay but are verbal.

Supratentorial abnormalities are not significantly associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcome but are associated with epilepsy.

Comorbidities are common in CCMs, especially ophthalmological issues in cerebellar hypoplasia and sensorineural hearing loss in pontocerebellar hypoplasia.
Environmental effects of ambient temperature and relative humidity on insulin pharmacodynamics in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Al‐Qaissi Ahmed , Papageorgiou Maria , Javed Zeeshan , Heise Tim , Rigby Alan S. , Garrett Andrew T. , Hepburn David , Kilpatrick Eric S. , Atkin Stephen L. , Sathyapalan Thozhukat
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study aimed to explore the effects of ambient temperature and relative humidity on insulin pharmacodynamics in adults with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and methods

A three‐way, cross‐over, randomised study was performed in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 10). The pharmacodynamics profile of a single dose of short‐acting insulin (insulin lispro) was investigated, using a controlled environmental chamber, under three environmental conditions: (a) temperature: 15°C and humidity: 10%; (b) temperature: 30°C and humidity: 10%; and (c) temperature: 30°C and humidity: 60%. A euglycaemic glucose clamp technique ensured constant blood glucose of 100 mg/dL (5.5 mmol/L). The following pharmacodynamic endpoints were calculated: maximum glucose infusion rate (GIRmax), time to GIRmax (tGIRmax), total area under the curve (AUC) for GIR from 0‐6 hours (AUCGIR.0‐6h), and partial AUCs (AUCGIR.0‐1h, AUCGIR.0‐2h and AUCGIR.2‐6h).

Results

Higher temperature (30°C) under 10% fixed humidity conditions resulted in greater GIRmax (P = 0.04) and a later tGIR.max (P = 0.049) compared to lower temperature (15°C). Humidity did not affect any pharmacodynamic parameter. When the combined effects of temperature and humidity were explored, tGIR.max (P = 0.008) occurred earlier, with a lower late insulin pharmacodynamic effect (AUCGIR.2‐6h; P = 0.017) at a temperature of 15°C and humidity of 10% compared to a temperature of 30°C and humidity of 60%.

Conclusions

High ambient temperature resulted in a greater insulin peak effect compared to low ambient temperature, with the contribution of high relative humidity apparent only at high ambient temperature. This suggests that patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are entering higher environmental temperatures, with or without high humidity, could experience more hypoglycaemic events.
Effect of switching from pioglitazone to the sodium glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor dapagliflozin on body weight and metabolism‐related factors in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: An open‐label, prospective, randomized, parallel‐group comparison trial
Authors: Cho Kyu Yong , Nakamura Akinobu , Omori Kazuno , Takase Takahiro , Miya Aika , Manda Naoki , Kurihara Yoshio , Aoki Shin , Atsumi Tatsuya , Miyoshi Hideaki
Published: October 2018

The effects of dapagliflozin (DAP) and pioglitazone (PIO) on body weight and glycaemic control were compared in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Seventy‐one patients on PIO were either switched to DAP (n = 36) at 5 mg per day or continued on PIO (n = 35). Primary endpoints were superiority of body weight loss and non‐inferiority of HbA1c level after 24 weeks with DAP. Body weight decrease was greater with DAP than with PIO (75.3 ± 14.9 to 71.3 ± 15.1 kg vs. 74.7 ± 13.8 to 75.2 ± 13.9 kg; P < 0.01). Change in the HbA1c level was comparable (P = 0.64). The level of N‐terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and urinary albumin : creatinine ratio (ACR) decreased only with DAP (NT‐proBNP, P < 0.01; ACR, P = 0.02), and the change in NT‐proBNP correlated negatively with baseline NT‐proBNP level (ρ = −0.68, P < 0.01) and log‐converted ACR (ρ = −0.35, P < 0.05). DAP promotes body weight loss in type 2 diabetes mellitus and may decrease fluid retention, thus reducing the occurrence of cardiovascular events.
THE LOCAL ECONOMIC IMPACT OF A LARGE RESEARCH UNIVERSITY: EVIDENCE FROM UC MERCED
Authors: Lee Jongkwan
Published: October 2018

In this paper, I estimate the short‐run economic effects of the opening of The University of California, Merced in 2005 by comparing Merced with a counterfactual constructed by the synthetic control method. During the period 2005–2014, the opening of the campus has increased local employment by 13%, mainly in nontraded industries, such as the service sector. These findings suggest that a large research university could bring immediate benefits to the local economy because of its large demand from students and employees. (JEL J24, O18, R11)
Strategies of Phytophthora infestans adaptation to local UV radiation conditions
Authors: Wu E‐Jiao , Wang Yan‐Ping , Shen Lin‐Lin , Yahuza Lurwanu , Tian Ji‐Chen , Yang Li‐Na , Shang Li‐Ping , Zhu Wen , Zhan Jiasui
Published: October 2018

Expected global changes in environmental conditions underline the need for a better understanding of genetic variation in ecological traits and their strategies of adaptation to the stresses. In this study, evolutionary mechanisms and processes of UV adaptation in plant pathogens were investigated by combining statistical genetics, physiological assays, and common garden experiment approaches in an assessment of the potato late blight pathogen, Phytophthora infestans, sampled from various geographic locations in China. We found spatial divergence caused by diversifying selection in UV tolerance among P. infestans populations. Local UV radiation was the driving force of selection as indicated by a positive correlation between UV tolerance in P. infestans populations and the altitude of collection sites. Plasticity accounted for 68% of population variation while heritability was negligible, suggesting temporary changes in gene expression and/or enzymatic activity play a more important role than permanent modification of gene structure in the evolution of UV adaptation. This adaptation strategy may explain the lack of fitness penalty observed in genotypes with higher UV tolerance.
Genetic mutations in Ca2+ signaling alter dendrite morphology and social approach in juvenile mice
Authors: Keil Kimberly P. , Sethi Sunjay , Wilson Machelle D. , Silverman Jill L. , Pessah Isaac N. , Lein Pamela J.
Published: October 2018

Dendritic morphology is a critical determinant of neuronal connectivity, and calcium signaling plays a predominant role in shaping dendrites. Altered dendritic morphology and genetic mutations in calcium signaling are both associated with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). In this study we tested the hypothesis that dendritic arborization and NDD‐relevant behavioral phenotypes are altered by human mutations that modulate calcium‐dependent signaling pathways implicated in NDDs. The dendritic morphology of pyramidal neurons in CA1 hippocampus and somatosensory cortex was quantified in Golgi‐stained brain sections from juvenile mice of both sexes expressing either a human gain‐of‐function mutation in ryanodine receptor 1 (T4826I‐RYR1), a human CGG repeat expansion (170‐200 CGG repeats) in the fragile X mental retardation gene 1 (FMR1 premutation), both mutations (double mutation; DM), or wildtype mice. In hippocampal neurons, increased dendritic arborization was observed in male T4826I‐RYR1 and, to a lesser extent, male FMR1 premutation neurons. Dendritic morphology of cortical neurons was altered in both sexes of FMR1 premutation and DM animals with the most pronounced differences seen in DM females. Genotype also impaired behavior, as assessed using the three‐chambered social approach test. The most striking lack of sociability was observed in DM male and female mice. In conclusion, mutations that alter the fidelity of calcium signaling enhance dendritic arborization in a brain region‐ and sex‐specific manner and impair social behavior in juvenile mice. The phenotypic outcomes of these mutations likely provide a susceptible biological substrate for additional environmental stressors that converge on calcium signaling to determine individual NDD risk.
Fermentation and chemical composition of Marandu grass ensiled with dehydrated brewery residue
Authors: de Jesus Ferreira Daniele , de Moura Zanine Anderson , de Paula Lana Rogério , de Souza Alexandre Lima , de Mattos Negrão Fagton , Geron Luiz J V , Parente Henrique N , de Oliveira Maia Parente Michelle , Pinho Ricardo M A
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate fermentation and chemical composition of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu silages treated with dehydrated brewery residue (DBR). Treatments consisted of five levels of DBR (0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 g/kg fresh matter basis). Buffering capacity, pH, and lactic acid concentration were quadratically affected (p < 0.05) by DBR levels. Losses by gases and effluents decreased linearly (p < 0.05) as the level of DBR was increased. Dry matter recovery increased linearly (p < 0.05). The addition of DBR did not affect (p > 0.05) chemical parameters, such as organic matter, ash, and water‐soluble carbohydrates in Marandu grass silage. The addition of DBR improved the fermentation profile and nutritive value of B. brizantha cv. Marandu. These effects were consistent with the inclusion of at least 200 g/kg of DBR.
Variations of the same? A sectoral analysis of the gender pay gap in Germany and Austria
Authors: Bergmann Nadja , Scheele Alexandra , Sorger Claudia
Published: October 2018

Germany and Austria are two countries with a comparably and persistently high gender pay gap. Further, both countries are classified as conservative welfare states where the male breadwinner model has been only partly modernized and strong corporatist structures shape working conditions. At the same time, welfare policy and provision are not only based on but also shape gender‐related norms, beliefs and assumptions that are virulent for job valuation and collective bargaining. Against this background the article analyses similarities and differences regarding the gender pay gap in Germany and Austria. While both countries show significant similarities regarding the causes for the gender pay gap, there are some differences regarding legislation and further policies with which the gender pay gap could be reduced. Arguing that the institutional framework strongly influences income opportunities for women and men, the article provides a sectoral analysis of the financial and insurance sector and the human health sector in both countries. Using qualitative data from a recent research project, it is argued that in the classification of a sector as ‘female’, the sectoral income level combined with different wage‐setting mechanisms have a crucial impact on wage inequalities between women and men.
SMART – Not Always Only “Stroke‐Like”
Authors: Haller Vanessa , Dashti David , Peters Nils
Published: October 2018

Stroke‐like migraine attacks after radiation therapy (SMART) is a syndrome observed in a delayed fashion in patients following brain radiation therapy. It is a rare but important differential diagnosis of migraine in these patients, often presenting with migraine‐like headache. In addition, there may be focal neurological deficits or seizures. In general, it is regarded as a reversible condition, therefore termed stroke‐like. Our case illustrates that there may also be ischemic stroke associated with SMART leading to an unfavorable course, even after prior remission.
The Future of Migraine Prevention
Authors: Cowan Robert P.
Published: October 2018

Barring unforeseen circumstances, we anticipate the arrival of the first mechanism‐specific class of molecules for migraine prevention in 2018. Despite many ground‐breaking advances in the field over the last several years, these agents, broadly identified as calcitonin gene‐related peptide‐based pharmaceuticals, have captured the imagination and attention of the lay press and much of the headache community. This paper will address the factors, both class‐specific and systems‐based, that are likely to affect the launch, access, compliance, and adherence related to this new class, as well as attempt to place these novel medications in context of the current state and anticipated changes in headache medicine.
Identification and characterization of HIV positive Ethiopian elite controllers in both Africa and Israel
Authors: Kiros YK , Elinav H , Gebreyesus A , Gebremeskel H , Azar J , Chemtob D , Abreha H , Elbirt D , Shahar E , Chowers M , Turner D , Grossman Z , Haile A , Sutton RE , Maayan SL , Wolday D
Published: October 2018

Objectives

HIV elite controllers (ECs) are a unique subgroup of HIV‐positive patients who are long‐term virologically suppressed in the absence of antiretroviral treatment (ART). The prevalence of this subgroup is estimated to be < 1%. Various cohorts of ECs have been described in developed countries, most of which have been demographically heterogeneous. The aim of this study was to identify ECs in two large African cohorts and to estimate their prevalence in a relatively genetically homogenous population.

Methods

We screened two cohorts of HIV‐positive Ethiopian patients. The first cohort resided in Mekelle, Ethiopia. The second was comprised of HIV‐positive Ethiopian immigrants in Israel. In the Mekelle cohort, ART‐naïve subjects with stable CD4 counts were prospectively screened using two measurements of viral load 6 months apart. Subjects were defined as ECs when both measurements were undetectable. In the Israeli cohort, subjects with consistently undetectable viral loads (mean of 17 viral load measurements/patient) and stable CD4 count > 500 cells/μL were defined as ECs.

Results

In the Mekelle cohort, 16 of 9515 patients (0.16%) fitted the definition of EC, whereas seven of 1160 (0.6%) in the Israeli cohort were identified as ECs (P = 0.011).

Conclusions

This is the first large‐scale screening for HIV‐positive ECs to be performed in entirely African cohorts. The overall prevalence of ECs is within the range of that previously described in developing countries. The significant difference in prevalence between the two cohorts of similar genetic background is probably a consequence of selection bias but warrants further investigation into possible environmental factors which may underlie the EC state.
South‐South Irregular Migration: The Impacts of China's Informal Gold Rush in Ghana
Authors: Botchwey Gabriel , Crawford Gordon , Loubere Nicholas , Lu Jixia
Published: October 2018

This article examines irregular South‐South migration from China to Ghana, and the role it played in transforming livelihoods and broader developmental landscapes. It looks at the entry of approximately 50,000 Chinese migrants into the informal small‐scale gold mining sector from 2008‐2013. These migrants mainly hailed from Shanglin County in Guangxi Province. In Ghana, they formed mutually beneficial relationships with local miners, both legal and illegal, introducing machinery that substantially increased gold production. However, the legal status of Chinese miners was particularly problematic as, by law, small‐scale mining is restricted to Ghanaian citizens. In mid‐2013, President Mahama established a military task force against illegal mining, resulting in the deportation of many Chinese miners. The article examines the experiences of both Chinese migrants and Ghanaian miners. Findings are that irregular migration into an informal sector had long‐lasting impacts and played a significant role in the transformation of economic, political, and physical landscapes in Ghana.
Effects and safety of atmospheric low‐temperature plasma on bacterial reduction in chronic wounds and wound size reduction: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Assadian Ojan , Ousey Karen J. , Daeschlein George , Kramer Axel , Parker Christina , Tanner Judith , Leaper David J.
Published: October 2018

The use of atmospheric low‐temperature plasma (AP) on chronic wounds and its effect on microbial bioburden in open wounds has not been explored with a systematic review and meta‐analysis. PRISMA guidelines were followed and PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, and CINAHL databases searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), which compared AP with no AP for the management of open, chronic wounds. The primary outcomes of reduction of bioburden or wound size were included. Meta‐analyses were performed; odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted and pooled in a random effects model.

Four RCTs investigated the effect of AP on chronic wound healing. Chronic wounds treated with AP did not show a significant improvement in healing (AP vs control: OR = 1.46; 95% CI = 0.89‐2.38; P = 0.13). Five further RCTs investigated the reduction of bioburden in wounds, but AP demonstrated no significant reduction of bioburden (AP vs control: OR = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.45‐1.62; P = 0.63). All nine RCTs recorded the presence of any severe adverse events (SAEs) in the 268 patients studied, with only one unrelated SAE identified in each group (AP vs control: OR = 1.00; 95% CI = 0.05‐19.96; P = 1.00). Use of AP in wound care is safe, but the retrieved evidence and meta‐analysis show that there is no clinical benefit of AP in chronic open wounds using currently available AP device settings.
Oncostatin M inhibits differentiation of rat stem Leydig cells in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Wang Yiyan , Xie Lubin , Tian Erpo , Li Xiaoheng , Wen Zina , Li Linchao , Chen Lanlan , Zhong Ying , Ge Ren‐Shan
Published: October 2018

Oncostatin M (OSM) is a pleiotropic cytokine within the interleukin six family of cytokines, which regulate cell growth and differentiation in a wide variety of biological systems. However, its action and underlying mechanisms on stem Leydig cell development are unclear. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether OSM affects the proliferation and differentiation of rat stem Leydig cells. We used a Leydig cell regeneration model in rat testis and a unique seminiferous tubule culture system after ethane dimethane sulfonate (EDS) treatment to assess the ability of OSM in the regulation of proliferation and differentiation of rat stem Leydig cells. Intratesticular injection of OSM (10 and 100 ng/testis) from post‐EDS day 14 to 28 blocked the regeneration of Leydig cells by reducing serum testosterone levels without affecting serum luteinizing hormone and follicle‐stimulating hormone levels. It also decreased the levels of Leydig cell‐specific mRNAs (Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1 and Hsd11b1) and their proteins by the RNA‐Seq and Western blotting analysis. OSM had no effect on the proliferative capacity of Leydig cells in vivo. In the seminiferous tubule culture system, OSM (0.1, 1, 10 and 100 ng/mL) inhibited the differentiation of stem Leydig cells by reducing medium testosterone levels and downregulating the expression of Leydig cell‐specific genes (Lhcgr, Star, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, Cyp17a1 and Hsd11b1) and their proteins. OSM‐mediated action was reversed by S3I‐201 (a STAT3 antagonist) or filgotinib (a JAK1 inhibitor). These data suggest that OSM is an inhibitory factor of rat stem Leydig cell development.
Effects of variation in resource acquisition during different stages of the life cycle on life‐history traits and trade‐offs in a burying beetle
Authors: Richardson Jon , Smiseth Per T.
Published: October 2018

Individual variation in resource acquisition should have consequences for life‐history traits and trade‐offs between them because such variation determines how many resources can be allocated to different life‐history functions, such as growth, survival and reproduction. Since resource acquisition can vary across an individual's life cycle, the consequences for life‐history traits and trade‐offs may depend on when during the life cycle resources are limited. We tested for differential and/or interactive effects of variation in resource acquisition in the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides. We designed an experiment in which individuals acquired high or low amounts of resources across three stages of the life cycle: larval development, prior to breeding and the onset of breeding in a fully crossed design. Resource acquisition during larval development and prior to breeding affected egg size and offspring survival, respectively. Meanwhile, resource acquisition at the onset of breeding affected size and number of both eggs and offspring. In addition, there were interactive effects between resource acquisition at different stages on egg size and offspring survival. However, only when females acquired few resources at the onset of breeding was there evidence for a trade‐off between offspring size and number. Our results demonstrate that individual variation in resource acquisition during different stages of the life cycle has important consequences for life‐history traits but limited effects on trade‐offs. This suggests that in species that acquire a fixed‐sized resource at the onset of breeding, the size of this resource has larger effects on life‐history trade‐offs than resources acquired at earlier stages.
Mathematical modeling of product melt flow in the molding channel of an extruding machine with meat filling feeding
Authors: Ostrikov Alexander N. , Shakhov Sergey V. , Ospanov Abdymanap A. , Muslimov Nurzhan Zh. , Timurbekova Aigul K. , Jumabekova Gulnara B. , Matevey Yesmurat Z.
Published: October 2018

Designing alternative food products that would be capable of replacing animal husbandry products while also providing the required amount of edible protein is an important task. It will provide food products for the wider population and reduce food shortage. The aim of this research is to present the product with a high content of animal fats and proteins by extruding animal products. This goal gives rise to the following stages: choosing the temperature zone to keep the process of protein denaturation within an acceptable framework and to preserve all nutrients in easy‐to‐consume forms. Thus, a mathematical model was constructed, which describes the melt flow of the vegetable–meat mixture in the first compression zone, the decompression‐extraction zone, and the second compression zone of a double‐screw‐conveyor extruding machine. The offered product allows the organism to receive its standard daily intake of edible protein, which improves the health of the population. This type of food is also the most cost‐effective replacement for meat products.
Near‐infrared light penetration depth analysis inside melon with thick peel by a novel strategy of slicing combining with least square fitting method
Authors: Xu Lu , Li Jiangbo , Zhang Dongyan
Published: October 2018

The light penetration depth in melon was explored by near‐infrared (NIR) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (500–1,100 nm) combining a novel strategy of slicing and least square fitting. The depths of peak wavelength and effective waveband (720–880 nm) based on three source‐detector distances (d = 10, 20, and 30 mm) were calculated and compared by least square fitting. The results indicated that the obtained depth were similar both slicing method and least square fitting. The depth values of melon fruits were 12.3, 14.9, and 19.0 mm for peak wavelength, and the depth value ranges were 11.7–12.4, 14.2–15.8, and 16.8–21.0 mm for the effective waveband of 720–880 nm when d was 10, 20, and 30 mm, respectively. The overall results demonstrated that least square fitting method could be accurately applied to calculate the light penetration depth inside melon and the depth value increased with increasement of d. And 20 mm source‐detector distance could be the optimal selection. This study can provide the valuable reference for development of spectral instrument used to effectively detect the internal quality of fruits, especially for fruits with thick peel.

Practical application

The light penetration depth in fruit tissues was very important for obtaining the more effective spectral information used to accurately and robustly assess the internal quality of fruits. Currently, there was no effective and rapid technology to measure the light penetration depth of fruits, especially fruits with thick peel. Hence, in this research, we provided a novel method of slicing and least square fitting to calculate the light penetration depth in melon based on different source‐detector distance. The result indicated that the proposed method could be applied to calculate the penetration depth in melon and provided a valuable reference to develop the spectral equipment.
Sources of contaminated flood sediments in a rural–urban catchment: Johnson Creek, Oregon
Authors: Chang Heejun , Allen Deonie , Morse Jennifer , Mainali Janardan
Published: October 2018

This study investigated the delivery of contaminated sediments to the channel network by urban drainage systems in Johnson Creek in Oregon, USA. Concentrations of five heavy metal concentrations measured in 136 samples collected from 37 stormwater outfalls and 99 bed sampling points were analysed. While concentrations of zinc, cadmium, and lead increased with distance downstream in Johnson Creek, this was not the case for chromium and copper. Zinc, copper, and cadmium concentrations in outfalls were significantly higher than those in the stream bed, indicating that stormwater runoff is responsible for delivering contaminated sediments to Johnson Creek. Zinc concentrations in outfalls were negatively associated with elevation and slope in the contributing subcatchment, and positively with impervious cover. However, no statistically significant relationships were found between the other heavy metal concentrations and subcatchment variables. These findings demonstrate that relationships between sediment‐related, heavy metal concentrations, and subcatchment characteristics in this heterogeneous, rural–urban catchment are more complex than those found in situations where land‐use is more segregated, questioning the applicability of commonly held assumptions regarding changes in the sources and delivery paths of flood‐related, sediment‐associated pollutants that accompany urbanisation.
Midwifery Professional Stress and Its Sources: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: Wright Erin M. , Matthai Maude Theo , Budhathoki Chakra
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Professionally‐related stress among midwives has been demonstrated in a global context to have deleterious effects on their professional, physical, and psychological health. Despite global interest in the subject, there has been no study about professional stress in a cohort of US midwives.

Methods

A convergent parallel mixed‐methods design was used. The Job‐Related Tension Index (JRTI) survey was administered to a self‐selected sample of certified nurse‐midwives and certified midwives in clinical practice in the United States via email solicitation of the American College of Nurse‐Midwives’ membership. A single qualitative open‐ended question was also included in the survey.

Results

A total of 644 midwives participated in this study. The mean (SD) score on the JRTI across all midwife participants was 38.3 (9.65); the possible range of scores was 15 to 75. Midwives who were biologically older and/or had practiced longer and who had higher levels of education were shown to have higher levels of job‐related tension. Those who believed their stress levels had negatively affected patient care showed higher job‐related tension scores than those who did not. Call hours did not significantly affect tension scores in this study sample. Nearly all midwives in the cohort (97.1%) had experienced traumatic birth. Seven themes were identified after content analysis. These included the following: I'm SO tired, conflict with colleagues, selling your midwifery soul, leaving midwifery, non‐respectful maternity care, balancing work and personal life, and medicolegal fears.

Discussion

Systems should recognize and validate midwives’ levels of work‐related tension and develop specific interventions to help alleviate it. Because of the size and racial homogeneity of the sample, further studies are recommended to identify stress levels and their contributing factors in a larger, more diverse population of midwives. Qualitative themes should be more fully explored to identify specific contributors to midwifery stress.
Combining functional traits, the environment and multiple surveys to understand semi‐arid tree distributions
Authors: Pollock Laura J. , Kelly Luke T. , Thomas Freya M. , Soe Paing , Morris William K. , White Matt , Vesk Peter A.
Published: October 2018

Questions

Relationships between species, their functional traits and environmental gradients can now be more fully understood with trait‐based multi‐species distribution models (trait‐SDMs). However, general patterns are yet to emerge from founding studies using these models, which are mostly case studies at a single scale. Here, we address the generality of trait–environment relations by asking whether these relationships hold for different sampling schemes, environmental variables and species sets.

Methods

We focus on the drought and fire‐resistant “mallee” eucalypts of a semi‐arid region of southeast Australia, which are likely to face new climates and disturbance regimes under global change. We use hierarchical regression modelling to test how trait–environment relationships change for two data sets representing an extensively collected, multipurpose data set and an intensively collected data set stratified along environmental gradients.

Results

Three functional traits (specific leaf area, maximum height and seed mass) explained a substantial portion of the occurrence of species along soil, water and climatic gradients, with the relationship between seed mass and soil type robust across all tests. Other trait–environment relationships changed depending on study design and species set, with soil and substrate variables more important relative to climate (precipitation) for the intensively sampled survey. Remotely sensed variables were good surrogates for some field‐based measures (soil type), but not others (land form: dune or swale). In particular, airborne soil radiometric data show promise as a spatially continuous substitute for soil texture.

Conclusions

Trait‐SDMs are a powerful tool for quantifying ecological interactions, but generalizations will only be possible when sample design, scale and environmental variables are carefully considered. We show that important ecological relationships can be diluted or missed entirely in broad scale trait–environment studies that rely on remotely sensed climate variables alone. Relationships that are robust to differences in study design, growth form and ecosystem (e.g., heavier seeds on sandy soil) are the most likely to reveal general ecological processes.
Genomic architecture of complex traits in loblolly pine
Authors: De La Torre Amanda R. , Puiu Daniela , Crepeau Marc W. , Stevens Kristian , Salzberg Steven L. , Langley Charles H. , Neale David B.
Published: October 2018

Dissecting the genetic and genomic architecture of complex traits is essential to understand the forces maintaining the variation in phenotypic traits of ecological and economical importance.

Whole‐genome resequencing data were used to generate high‐resolution polymorphic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and genotype individuals from common gardens across the loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) natural range. Genome‐wide associations were tested with a large phenotypic dataset comprising 409 variables including morphological traits (height, diameter, carbon isotope discrimination, pitch canker resistance), and molecular traits such as metabolites and expression of xylem development genes.

Our study identified 2335 new SNP × trait associations for the species, with many SNPs located in physical clusters in the genome of the species; and the genomic location of hotspots for metabolic × genotype associations.

We found a highly polygenic basis of quantitative inheritance, with significant differences in number, effects size, genomic location and frequency of alleles contributing to variation in phenotypes in the different traits. While mutation‐selection balance might be shaping the genetic variation in metabolic traits, balancing selection is more likely to shape the variation in expression of xylem development genes. Our work contributes to the study of complex traits in nonmodel plant species by identifying associations at a whole‐genome level.
Accessibility to food retailers and socio‐economic deprivation in urban New Zealand
Authors: Wiki Jesse , Kingham Simon , Campbell Malcolm
Published: October 2018

The spatial locations of food retailers are considered to be an influential aspect of population consumption patterns. Such contextual relationships are often related to socio‐economic deprivation, with disparities in accessibility having important implications. This study used Geographic Information Systems and an Enhanced Two‐Step Floating Catchment Area model of spatial accessibility to further understand such relationships within urban areas of New Zealand. Findings, while mixed, indicate that there is generally increased accessibility to all food retailers in highly deprived areas. Understanding these socio–spatial relationships in local environments has important implications for policy initiatives, health outcomes and sustainable development.
Red blood cell transfusion in acute pulmonary embolism – Reply
Authors: Wong Christopher , Kritharides Leonard , Ng Austin Chin Chwan
Published: October 2018

See Letter
A model of occupational choice, offshoring and immigration
Authors: Unel Bulent
Published: October 2018

This paper develops a two‐country model of offshoring and immigration with occupational choice and endogenous firm productivity. Individuals in Home choose to become entrepreneurs or workers, whereas those in Foreign can only be employed as workers. Entrepreneurs produce output using a fixed set of tasks that can be performed locally or abroad. The model predicts that pro‐immigration policies increase the number of entrepreneurs, raise productivity, and improve the aggregate welfare. It also predicts that lowering offshoring costs generates job polarization and welfare polarization, but improves the aggregate welfare.
Reference Income Effects in the Determination of Equivalence Scales Using Income Satisfaction Data
Authors: Borah Melanie , Keldenich Carina , Knabe Andreas
Published: October 2018

We estimate household equivalence scales, i.e. the needs of additional adults and children relative to a single adult, using income satisfaction data from the German Socio‐Economic Panel. We extend previous studies applying this approach by taking reference income into account. This allows separating needs‐based from reference effects in the determination of income satisfaction. We show that this adjustment helps to overcome a bias causing an overestimation of adults’ and an underestimation of children’s needs‐based equivalence weights. Our results indicate that controlling for income comparisons substantially increases children’s equivalence weight relative to that of adults.
The dynamics of conservative peakons in a family of U(1)‐invariant integrable equations of NLS‐Hirota type
Authors: Anco Stephen C. , Chang Xiangke , Szmigielski Jacek
Published: October 2018

The tri‐Hamiltonian splitting method applied to the Hirota hierarchy has yielded two U(1)‐invariant nonlinear Partial Differential Equations (PDEs) that admit peakons (nonsmooth solitons). In the present paper, these two peakon PDEs are generalized to a family of U(1)‐invariant peakon PDEs parameterized by the real projective line . All equations in this family are shown to possess conservative peakon solutions (whose Sobolev norm is time invariant). The Hamiltonian structure for the sector of conservative peakons is identified and the peakon Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) are shown to be Hamiltonian with respect to several Poisson structures. As the main result, it is shown that inverse spectral methods allow one to solve explicitly the dynamics of conservative peakons using explicit solutions to a certain interpolation problem. The graphs of multipeakon solutions confirm the existence of multipeakon breathers as well as asymptotic formation of pairs of two peakon bound states in the nonperiodic time domain.
Patients’ experiences of sexuality as a taboo subject in the Danish healthcare system: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Traumer Line , Jacobsen Michael Hviid , Laursen Birgitte Schantz
Published: October 2018

Background

Sexual dysfunction is common in patients diagnosed with cancer or chronic disease, having psychological, emotional and social ramifications. The consequences are ultimately significant impaired quality of life and reduced mental well‐being, and it therefore requires professional attention. However, evidence suggests that sexuality is a taboo subject in the healthcare system, as healthcare professionals and patients rarely initiate conversations on this subject.

Aim

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand how patients diagnosed with cancer or chronic disease experiencing sexual dysfunction experience sexuality as a taboo subject in the healthcare system.

Methods

Ten women diagnosed with cancer or chronic disease experiencing sexual dysfunction were recruited from the Sexological Centre in Aalborg, Denmark. Using an interview guide, semi‐structured interviews were conducted and a qualitative thematic analysis was performed.

Results

The analysis revealed that sexuality is a sensitive and taboo subject in the Danish healthcare system. Some patients initiated conversations about their sexuality, but felt rejected by healthcare professionals, who dismissed these initiatives, whereas other patients were reluctant to discuss sexuality, but did not experience healthcare professionals bringing up sexuality either. Despite these differences between patients’ experiences, sexuality constituted a taboo subject, as patients or healthcare professionals deliberately avoided discussing the patients’ sexuality‐related issues.

Conclusions

Communication about sexuality is essential for improving patients’ well‐being, and healthcare professionals should routinely address sexuality and sexual intimacy with patients diagnosed with cancer or chronic disease in order to break the taboo and accommodate patients’ needs.
Interactive thermal tissue reactions of 7‐MHz intense focused ultrasound and 1‐MHz and 6‐MHz radiofrequency on cadaveric skin
Authors: Kim Heesu , Ahn Keun Jae , Lee Sugun , Park Henry , Cho Sung Bin
Published: October 2018

Background

Intense focused ultrasound (IFU) and radiofrequency (RF) systems generate thermal tissue reactions in multiple zones in the skin, with the microscopic features thereof varying according to energy sources and treatment parameters.

Objective

To evaluate interactive thermal tissue reactions of IFU and RF in cadaveric skin.

Methods

Thermal reaction patterns generated by IFU, invasive bipolar RF, and non‐invasive monopolar RF treatments were analyzed in cadaveric skin of the inner thigh. Additionally, combination treatment, including IFU and invasive bipolar RF, IFU and non‐invasive monopolar RF, invasive bipolar RF and IFU, and non‐invasive monopolar RF and IFU, was delivered to cadaveric skin and microscopically evaluated.

Results

Combination treatment with 1.5‐mm IFU followed by 1.5‐mm invasive RF elicited multiple thermal injury zones of coagulation and ablation in the mid to lower dermis. Therein, IFU‐induced thermal reactions were indistinguishable from RF‐induced thermal reactions. Non‐invasive RF treatment on IFU‐pretreated cadaveric tissue specimens exhibited greater degrees of thermal injury, with wider and deeper penetration, compared to non‐invasive RF treatment alone. Furthermore, RF‐pretreated tissues showed marked differences in the patterns of IFU‐induced thermal tissue reactions.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that combination treatments with IFU and RF elicit various patterns of interactive thermal tissue reactions.
Impact of enhanced efficiency fertilizers on potato productivity in a temperate cropping system
Authors: Eyles A. , Ives S. , Hardie M. , Corkrey R. , Boersma M.
Published: October 2018

Nitrification inhibitors are intended to improve the productivity of agricultural crops; however, there are limited data available on the efficacy of this approach in potato crop production. A field experiment was carried out in temperate Australia to compare the effect of standard commercial fertilizer nitrogen (N) management with fertilizer treated with two nitrification inhibitors, 3,4‐dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP) and 1H‐1,2,4‐triazole and 3‐methylpyrazole (3MP+TZ) on potato productivity and soil N dynamics for three irrigation regimes. Despite evidence of increased soil ammonium () concentrations in the DMPP and 3MP+TZ treatments, crop yield and quality parameters (tuber number, average tuber size, potato‐specific gravity, three tuber size classes and grade yields) were similar across treatments. Further, DMPP and 3MP+TZ treatments did not reduce either the concentration or the flux of nitrate leached. These findings suggest that further research into the agronomic benefits of nitrification inhibitors for potatoes grown in cool temperate regions is needed.
A Call for Exploration of the Utilization of Structural Family Therapy with Adolescent Girls with Eating Disorders
Authors: Tadros Eman , Buza Rebecca , Podolski Christina , Strumbel Brooke
Published: October 2018

Eating disorders are extremely prevalent in the American society, particularly in the population of adolescent girls. Family dynamics have shown to have an effect on early development and symptom severity, identifying a necessity for early prevention and detection that can start in the home. In reviewing the literature, it has been found that treatment involving all family members can aid in symptom management of young girls who are struggling with eating disorders. This paper sheds light on the importance of implementing systemic treatment with adolescent girls. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the need for exploration of the utilization of structural family therapy (SFT) with this population. The authors recommend SFT to suit the varying needs of clients with an eating disorder and their overarching families.
A Teacher’s Will nor His Strategies, Guides Itself to Motivate the Learners’ Desires
Authors: Masuhay, Msmathed Edilmar P.
Published: October 2018

The teacher himself, not his motivational skills and his teaching strategies that guide his students to be more confident and aspired. As if this study relates to the life of teachers, the researcher with this recommends that every teacher should bear in mind that “the desired teacher is a leader that shall always keep the best means for his students.” The study interprets that Filipinos mathematicians’ in this generation are majority woman, and responsive young professionals, endowed with virtues of being a loner, enthusiast, and well mannered. Common sense indulged that students with positive virtues were practically easy to transform but delimit students with behavioral problems.
The challenge of distinguishing mechanical, electrical and piezoelectric losses
Authors: Wild Marcus , Bring Martin , Halvorsen Einar , Hoff Lars , Hjelmervik Karina
Published: October 2018

Understanding the energy loss in piezoelectric materials is of significant importance for manufacturers of acoustic transducers. The contributions to the power dissipation due to nonzero phase angles of the mechanical, electrical, and piezoelectric constants can be separated in the expression for power dissipation density. However, this division into separate contributions depends on the piezoelectric constitutive equation form used. Thus, it is problematic to identify any of the three terms with a specific physical domain, electric or mechanical, or to a coupling as is common in the discussion of loss in piezoelectric materials. Therefore, assumptions on the phase of the material constants based on this distinction could be erroneous and lead to incorrect piezoelectric models. This study demonstrates the challenge of distinguishing mechanical, electrical, and piezoelectric losses by investigating the power dissipation density and its contributions in a piezoelectric rod for all four piezoelectric constitutive equation forms.
Focus on Brand Choice: Assessing the Behavioral Response to Sponsorship-Linked Communication
Authors: Rumpf Christopher , Breuer Christoph
Published: October 2018

Current knowledge on the behavioral response to sponsorship is to a large degree based on field studies measuring self-reported purchase intentions. In an effort to provide more solid evidence for the impact of sponsorship-linked communication on brand choice behavior, a controlled lab study was carried out. A fictitious brand was created and virtually embedded into real sport broadcasts serving as stimulus clips. To measure the cognitive, affective, and behavioral outcomes, multiple methods such as eye tracking, a brand feeling scale, and a spontaneous choice test were applied. Compared with the control group, participants in the stimulus group were significantly more likely to choose the fictitious target brand. Moreover, the study finds that brand choice behavior is sensitive to changes in brand feelings. The results can be regarded as a next step in predicting the behavioral outcomes from sponsorship as the basis to calculate its financial return.
Improving the Diagnosis of Orthopedic Implant-Associated Infections: Optimizing the Use of Tools Already in the Box
Authors: Vasoo Shawn
Published: October 2018

With the increasing number of prosthetic joints replaced annually worldwide, orthopedic implant-associated infections (OIAI) present a considerable burden. Accurate diagnostics are required to optimize surgical and antimicrobial therapy.