bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combustion synthesis of C/MgAl2O4 composite powders using magnesium oxalate as carbon source
Authors: Lv Lihua , Xiao Guoqing , Ding Donghai , Ren Yun , Yang Shoulei , Yang Pan , Hou Xing
Published: October 2018

In order to solve the bottleneck problems including uniform distribution, and oxidation resistance of nano carbons in oxide ceramics, C/MgAl2O4 composite powders were prepared with MgC2O4·2H2O, MgO2, Al2O3, and Al as raw materials via combustion method under argon atmosphere. The maximum adding amount of MgC2O4·2H2O is 34.34 wt%. The phase compositions and microstructures of combustion products were characterized through X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM)/EDX, and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed that the phases of products are mainly composed of MgAl2O4 and carbon. The prepared MgAl2O4 has granular and rod‐like morphologies, and the free carbon (1.172 wt%) exists between particles of MgAl2O4. Moreover, the addition of FeC2O4 as catalyst in raw materials ratio would be beneficial for improving crystallization of in situ carbon generated in the products. The oxidation activation energy of the prepared C/MgAl2O4 composite powders was calculated as 143.01 kJ/mol which was 22.17% higher than that of carbon black/MgAl2O4 powders (117.06 kJ/mol), suggesting that the C/MgAl2O4 composite powders prepared by combustion synthesis have excellent oxidation resistance.
A climate for evidence‐based practice implementation in the patient‐centred medical home
Authors: Sklar Marisa , Hatch Melissa R. , Aarons Gregory A.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

The patient‐centred medical home (PCMH) is an important part of health care reform. While there is hope, the PCMH model can facilitate the provision of higher quality care, the extent to which organizational climate within the PCMH supports the implementation of evidence‐based practices (EBPs) is unknown. Identifying and addressing factors that facilitate implementation and use of EBPs within the PCMH are crucial for improving the health and health care of the United States.

Methods

This study used mixed methods to assess EBP implementation climate (ie, the extent to which organizational members perceive that the adoption and use of EBPs is expected, supported, and rewarded) and attitudes about EBPs in two PCMH clinics.

Results

Staff and physicians from two Rhode Island PCMHs, the Family Care Centre (FCC; n = 39) and Internal Medicine Clinic (IMC; n = 21), participated in this study. Results identified differences between FCC and IMC with regard to attitudes toward EBPs and implementation climate. Compared with the IMC, FCC staff and physicians reported significantly more positive attitudes toward EBPs and greater willingness to adopt EBPs. FCC staff and physicians reported significantly greater educational support for EBPs than IMC staff and physicians. Analysis of in‐depth interviews revealed themes regarding attitudes toward EBPs. Most physicians reported valuing EBPs, although a number of barriers to EBP use were identified including time pressure, disjointed coordination of services, complexity of patients' presenting health concerns, and patient choice.

Conclusions

Understanding factors that facilitate EBP implementation in the PCMH is important given widespread adoption of the PCMH model. Barriers to EBP implementation in the PCMH must be addressed for the sustainable implementation of EBP in the PCMH. Improving implementation climate may be an effective strategy to aid in creating an organizational context conducive to consideration and use of EBPs.
Translation into Portuguese, adaptation, and validity assessment of the food safety climate self‐assessment tool
Authors: Martins Werner Souza , de Campos Leite Ana Beatriz , de Carvalho Balian Simone
Published: October 2018

The aims of this study were to translate into Portuguese, adapt, and test the reliability, internal consistency, conceptual equivalence, and validity of the food safety climate self‐assessment tool. Translation and back translation were performed to test the reliability, internal consistency, conceptual equivalence, and validity of the translated instrument. The process of translating and adapting the tool was completed successfully, and the Portuguese version developed in the present study was confirmed to be similar to the original tool.

Practical applications

The food safety climate self‐assessment tool translated and adapted to promote the evaluation of the food safety climate in the food industry from Portuguese language countries. This tool should be used by industry managers or owners to know the perception and the culture of food safety among the workers.
Nonimplant, Nonadhesive Overlay Approach to Retain a Partial Auricular Prosthesis
Authors: Raghuvanshi Snehkiran , Chand Pooran , Singh Saumyendra V , Aggarwal Himanshi , Arya Deeksha
Published: October 2018

Partial auricular prosthesis fabrication presents a more complex challenge than complete ear fabrication, with added aspects of merging/camouflaging a larger prosthetic marginal area, pattern try‐in, and compromised retention. Better alternatives are excision of the remnant ear to make an implant‐retained complete ear prosthesis or surgical reconstruction of the missing ear portion. Both need additional surgery/ies and expenses, neither of which may be acceptable to the patient. This report describes a prosthesis fabrication approach for such patients. This approach does not require implants or adhesives for retention. Issues of marginal camouflage and pattern trial were also addressed satisfactorily.
Resource selection in reintroduced lions and the influence of intergroup interactions
Authors: Yiu S. W. , Karczmarski L. , Parrini F. , Keith M.
Published: October 2018

Optimal resource selection is crucial for maximising fitness and survival. Animals introduced to a new area need time to explore the environment, which could result in a time lag before optimal selection occurs. Furthermore, intra‐specific interactions (particularly in territorial species) also play a role in shaping resource selection patterns, with weaker individuals being displaced from optimal resources. We assessed within‐home range habitat selection of lions (Panthera leo) introduced to a South African wildlife reserve, to examine changes in their resource selection patterns across 3 years from the time of introduction, and the effect of intra‐specific interactions on these selection patterns. After initial exploration, lions selected low altitudes and flat slopes that facilitate movement, high tree densities that provide cover and refuge, and areas close to water sources and flood plains that have high prey density. Responses to human disturbances differed between males and females, with males being more tolerant to high densities of roads and buildings. These patterns were however disrupted by deaths due to intergroup conflicts and by introductions of new individuals, with the dominant groups remaining within favourable resources and subordinate groups shifting to suboptimal resources. Our findings support the spatio‐temporal dynamic nature of habitat selection processes for reintroduced large carnivores and emphasize the role of intra‐specific interactions in influencing the landscape determinants of habitat selection.
A Bifidobacterial pilus‐associated protein promotes colonic epithelial proliferation
Authors: O'Connell Motherway Mary , Houston Aileen , O’Callaghan Grace , Reunanen Justus , O’Brien Frances , O’Driscoll Tara , Casey Patrick G. , de Vos Willem M. , van Sinderen Douwe , Shanahan Fergus
Published: October 2018

Development of the human gut microbiota commences at birth, with certain bifidobacterial species representing dominant and early colonisers of the newborn gastrointestinal tract. The molecular basis of Bifidobacterium colonisation, persistence and presumed communication with the host has remained obscure. We previously identified tight adherence (Tad) pili from Bifidobacterium breve UCC2003 as an essential colonisation factor. Here, we demonstrate that bifidobacterial Tad pili also promote in vivo colonic epithelial proliferation. A significant increase in cell proliferation was detectable 5 days postadministration of B. breve UCC2003. Using advanced functional genomic approaches, bacterial strains either (a) producing the Tad2003 pili or (b) lacking the TadE or TadF pseudopilins were created. Analysis of the ability of these mutant strains to promote epithelial cell proliferation in vivo demonstrated that the pilin subunit, TadE, is the bifidobacterial molecule responsible for this proliferation response. These findings were confirmed in vitro using purified TadE protein. Our data imply that bifidobacterial Tad pili may contribute to the maturation of the naïve gut in early life through the production of a specific scaffold of extracellular protein structures, which stimulate growth of the neonatal mucosa.
On The Content and Character of Pain Experience
Authors: Gray Richard
Published: October 2018

Tracking representationalism explains the negative affective character of pain, and its capacity to motivate action, by reference to the representation of the badness for us of bodily damage. I argue that there is a more fitting instantiation of the tracking relation – the badness for us of extremely intense stimuli – and use this to motivate a non‐reductive approach to the negative affective character of pain. The view of pain proposed here is supported by consideration of three related topics: the pain caused when the body is damaged, reparative pain and the messenger‐shooting objection to tracking representationalism.
Organized Crime in Michoacán: Rent‐Seeking Activities in the Avocado Export Market
Authors: Ornelas Ruth G.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this article is to contribute to the existing measurements on extortions by organized crime and assess the impact of this predatory activity on economic growth. Extortions should be evaluated beyond the number of reported crimes to understand how much money is drained away from the legal economy. To set the stage I first analyze the illegal activities carried out by organized crime groups in the Mexican state of Michoacán during 2001‐14. Within this context this article presents a case study of extortions in the avocado legal export market. Specifically, this article shows how the criminal organization, the Knights Templar (KT), extracted rents from this legal market, what was the estimated magnitude of that rent, how tangential was this source of revenue to organized crime, and what was the adverse impact of these extortions of the KT on the economy of Michoacán by looking at the performance of the main macroeconomic variables.
Socioeconomic Development and Party System Fragmentation Cross‐Nationally
Authors: Raymond Christopher
Published: October 2018

The literature examining the number of parties cross‐nationally has focused extensively on the impact of electoral systems; the study of social cleavages is, by comparison, less well developed. While a sizeable body of research has examined the effects of ethnic and other measures of diversity, other cleavages have received less attention. This article focuses on the impact of socioeconomic development—reflecting class and urban‐rural cleavages—on party system fragmentation. Examining a large cross‐national dataset, the analysis shows that, in line with the expectations of social cleavage theory and independently of other social cleavage variables, socioeconomic development is associated with higher levels of party system fragmentation.
“Patriotism à la Carte”: Perceived Legitimacy of Collective Guilt and Collective Pride as Motivators for Political Behavior
Authors: White II Mark H. , Branscombe Nyla R.
Published: October 2018

Intergroup emotions motivate behavior, yet little is known about how people perceive these emotional experiences in others. In three experiments (Ns = 109, 179, 246), we show that U.S. citizens believe collective guilt is an illegitimate emotional motivator for ingroup political behavior, while collective pride is legitimate. This differential legitimacy is due to the perception that collective guilt violates the norm of group interest, while collective pride adheres to it; those who believe ingroup interests are more important than outgroups’ exhibited this illegitimacy gap. The perception that the intergroup emotion promoted ingroup entitativity mediated the relationship between emotion (pride vs. guilt) and legitimacy; this relationship was especially strong for those high in the belief in the norm of group interest. Collective guilt can have prosocial consequences, yet the perception that it is illegitimate may hinder such consequences from being realized.
Effect of EGF on expression and localization of maturation‐promoting factor, mitogen‐activated protein kinase, p34cdc2 and cyclin B during different culture periods on in vitro maturation of canine oocytes
Authors: Pereira Leda Maria C. , Bersano Paulo Ricardo O. , Rocha Danilo D. , Lopes Maria Denise
Published: October 2018

Contents

This study aimed to investigate the localization of MPF, MAPK, p34cdc2 and cyclin B1 proteins, before and after treatment with EGF during different moments of oocyte maturation. The ovaries obtained from 350 domestic dogs were aseptically isolated, immersed in physiological solution and transported at 4°C. In the laboratory, the ovaries were sectioned for the release of cumulus–oocyte complexes. Cumulus–oocyte complexes were selected and divided into treatment groups with and without EGF and cultured for 24, 48 and 72 hr. Immunofluorescence was used for the detection and the localization of MAPK, MPF, p34cdc2 and cyclin B1 proteins. We observed that the expression and localization of MPF, MAPK, p34cdc2 and cyclin B1 proteins are associated with meiosis resumption and cell cycle progression, and that EGF influences cell signalling pathways by promoting alterations in the localization of these proteins, improving the acquisition of oocyte competence. This is the first report of the localization of crucial proteins for meiosis progression in domestic dogs and identification of the expression and localization of proteins for cell cycle progression performed in this study represented a step of great importance to elucidate the mechanisms involved in the meiosis block in domestic dogs, allowing the advance in this research area.
Effect of presence or absence of antibiotics and use of modified single layer centrifugation on bacteria in pony stallion semen
Authors: Al‐Kass Ziyad , Spergser Joachim , Aurich Christine , Kuhl Juliane , Schmidt Kathrin , Morrell Jane M.
Published: October 2018

Contents

Bacteria contaminate semen during collection and handling. The objective of this study was to identify the bacteria in pony stallion semen, the effects of antibiotics included in commercial semen extenders (lincomycin and spectinomycin) and the effect of modified single layer centrifugation (MSLC), on bacterial load. Ejaculates from six pony stallions, 3 ejaculates per animal, were extended in EquiPlus extender either with or without antibiotics. Aliquots were processed by MSLC to form four treatment groups: control and MSLC with antibiotics (CA and SA, respectively) and control and MSLC without antibiotics (CW and SW, respectively). Bacteriological examinations were carried out within 2 hr. Thirty‐one species of bacteria were isolated from one or more ejaculates, with Corynebacterium spp. being the most frequently detected. Corynebacterium spp. were present in all ejaculates. The MSLC resulted in a significantly lower total bacterial count than controls (CA vs. SA, p < 0.001; CW vs. SW, p < 0.0001).
Ultrasonic Lamb wave‐based debonding monitoring of advanced honeycomb sandwich composite structures
Authors: Sikdar Shirsendu , Ostachowicz Wiesław
Published: October 2018

Honeycomb sandwich composites are extensively used in military shelters, aerospace structures, ground transportation structures, auto‐racing bodies, ship panels, and other special purpose structures requiring lightweight construction materials. But debondings at the face‐sheet‐to‐core junctions frequently occur due to the variable operating and loading conditions, which may menace the safety and overall integrity of the structural assembly. This paper aims to effectively identify such hidden debonding regions in these advanced structures, using Lamb wave‐based monitoring technique. A semianalytical analysis of Lamb wave dispersion in a healthy sandwich structure is carried out to identify various Lamb modes and to study their propagation phenomenon. A combined finite element‐based simulation and experimental analysis of Lamb wave propagation in sandwich panels (healthy and with debonding) are then carried out using piezoelectric transducer networks. It is observed that the presence of debonding significantly reduces the propagating Lamb wave mode amplitudes. A debonding detection algorithm, which uses the differential changes in Lamb mode amplitudes, is applied to efficiently identify single and multiple debonding regions in the structure.
Information Sampling, Judgment, and the Environment: Application to the Effect of Popularity on Evaluations
Authors: Le Mens Gaël , Denrell Jerker , Kovács Balázs , Karaman Hülya
Published: October 2018

If people avoid alternatives they dislike, a negative evaluative bias emerges because errors of under‐evaluation are unlikely to be corrected. Prior work that analyzed this mechanism has shown that when the social environment exposes people to avoided alternatives (i.e., it makes them resample them), then evaluations can become systematically more positive. In this paper, we clarify the conditions under which this happens. By analyzing a simple learning model, we show that whether additional exposures induced by the social environment lead to more positive or more negative evaluations depends on how prior evaluations and the social environment interact in driving resampling. We apply these insights to the study of the effect of popularity on evaluations. We show theoretically that increased popularity leads to more positive evaluations when popularity mainly increases the chances of resampling for individuals with low current evaluations. Data on repeat stays at hotels are consistent with this condition: The popularity of a hotel mainly impacts the chances of a repeat stay for individuals with low satisfaction scores. Our results illustrate how a sampling approach can help to explain when and why people tend to like popular alternatives. They also shed new light on the polarization of attitudes across social groups.
Excess Real Interest Rates and the Inflation Targeting Regime in Brazil: Monetary Policy Ineffectiveness and Rentiers’ Interests
Authors: Filho Fernando Ferrari , Milan Marcelo
Published: October 2018

Brazil has had, since the middle 1990s, one of the highest real interest rates in the world, yet not one of the lowest inflation rates. By the end of that decade, an inflation targeting regime (ITR) was introduced. Real interest rates have remained extremely high for international standards, while macroeconomic performance has been dismal on the same grounds. This article argues that these results can be explained by, among others reasons, pressures from the rentiers to frame monetary policy in a way to sustain very high interest earnings in a context where inflation is not very sensitive to monetary policy instruments. Under the ITR, the interest rate seems to have been kept above what would be required to maintain low inflation under normal conditions (even if one assumes a demand-pull inflation, which is not necessarily the case), with a potentially negative impact on growth and employment. This is interpreted as an indicator of monetary policy ineffectiveness. On the empirical ground, this article compares interest rate, inflation, unemployment, and real output growth for Brazil with both ITR and non-ITR countries selected by judgment sampling.
3 A`s of Reflexive Design Thinking in Architecture
Authors: Onal Gokce Ketizmen
Published: October 2018

The present study intends to discuss reflexive design thinking in architecture with respect to the interactions between three main dimensions and with the aim to disclose the interrogative considerations in architecture; the identical features, in various actions and contexts. The main objective is to uncover new connections and new potentials that are equally essential in architectural thinking, the inquiry through theory construction and the connection to practice, as well as the basic attitude of initiating thinking on iterative possibilities.Within this scope, the present study develops a reflexive design approach in architecture, by layering the theoretical and practical dimensions, taking creative generation and transformation into consideration. Accordingly, the whole structure of the value systems is accepted as reflexive architectural thinking that is formed by three dimensions: Architect, Action, Artifact. These contents, accepted as the main subjects of research approach, are each evaluated in the light of knowledge systems and conditions. The present study utilizes this research perspective in order to analyze and discuss the basic dimensions of design thinking in a reflexive way, through presenting a discourse on its meanings, context and contents. Therefore, the present study an attempt in architectural design-based research to develop a reflexive methodology for re-interpreting and re-formulating the relation between theory and practice.
Precise control of ion and radical production using electron beam generated plasmas
Authors: Boris David R. , Walton Scott G.
Published: October 2018

Precise control over both the relative and absolute flux of plasma species as well as their energy deposition at surfaces is critical to enabling the plasma processing of materials with atomic layer precision. In addition to the need for low damage, the complex device structures proposed for next generation nanoelectronics will also require control over radical to ion ratio. Electron beam generated plasmas are capable of generating a wide range of charged particle densities (109–1012 cm−3), while maintaining low electron temperatures (0.1–1.0 eV) and in reactive gas backgrounds, a relatively low radical production rate compared to discharges. These characteristics provide the ability to precisely control both the ion energy at adjacent surfaces and the ion to radical flux ratio. The latter capability is realized by coupling an electron beam generated plasma with an auxiliary plasma source designed to promote radical production. In this work, optical emission spectroscopy and Langmuir probe measurements are combined to measure the positive ion and fluorine atom densities in electron beam generated Ar/SF6 plasmas coupled to a remote, inductively coupled plasma source operating in the same environment. The results indicate that the approach can be used to independently control the positive ion and F radical densities such that the ion to radical density ratio can be varied over a range of 2–3 orders of magnitude.
A call to arms: Unifying the fight against resistance
Authors: Kaushansky Alexis , Hedstrom Lizbeth , Goldman Aaron , Singh Juswinder , Yang Priscilla L. , Rathod Pradipsinh K. , Cynamon Michael , Wodarz Dominik , Mahadevan Daruka , Tomaras Andrew , Navia Manuel A. , Schiffer Celia A.
Published: October 2018

Collaborative, cross-disciplinary research may rapidly advance the fight against drug resistance.
A Transcriptomics Approach To Unveiling the Mechanisms of
In Vitro
Evolution towards Fluconazole Resistance of a
Candida glabrata
Clinical Isolate
Authors: Cavalheiro Mafalda , Costa Catarina , Silva-Dias Ana , Miranda Isabel M. , Wang Can , Pais Pedro , Pinto Sandra N. , Mil-Homens Dalila , Sato-Okamoto Michiyo , Takahashi-Nakaguchi Azusa , Silva Raquel M. , Mira Nuno P. , Fialho Arsénio M. , Chibana Hiroji , Rodrigues Acácio G. , Butler Geraldine , Teixeira Miguel C.
Published: October 2018

Candida glabrata
is an emerging fungal pathogen. Its increased prevalence is associated with its ability to rapidly develop antifungal drug resistance, particularly to azoles.
The Reaction Mechanism of Metallo-β-Lactamases Is Tuned by the Conformation of an Active-Site Mobile Loop
Authors: Palacios Antonela R. , Mojica María F. , Giannini Estefanía , Taracila Magdalena A. , Bethel Christopher R. , Alzari Pedro M. , Otero Lisandro H. , Klinke Sebastián , Llarrull Leticia I. , Bonomo Robert A. , Vila Alejandro J.
Published: October 2018

Carbapenems are “last resort” β-lactam antibiotics used to treat serious and life-threatening health care-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Unfortunately, the worldwide spread of genes coding for carbapenemases among these bacteria is threatening these life-saving drugs.
Yersinia pseudotuberculosisExploits CD209 Receptors for Promoting Host Dissemination and Infection
Authors: He Ying-Xia , Ye Cheng-Lin , Zhang Pei , Li Qiao , Park Chae Gyu , Yang Kun , Jiang Ling-Yu , Lv Yin , Ying Xiao-Ling , Ding Hong-Hui , Huang Hong-Ping , Mambwe Tembo John , Li An-Yi , Cheng Bing , Zhang Shu-Sheng , Zheng Guo-Xing , Chen Shi-Yun , Li Wei , Xia Lian-Xu , Kan Biao , Wang Xin , Jing Huai-Qi , Yang Rui-Fu , Peng Hua , Fu Yang-Xin , Klena John D. , Skurnik Mikael , Chen Tie
Published: October 2018

Yersinia pseudotuberculosisis a Gram-negative enteropathogen and causes gastrointestinal infections. It disseminates from gut to mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), spleen, and liver of infected humans and animals.
Extracellular Acidic pH Inhibits Acetate Consumption by Decreasing Gene Transcription of the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle and the Glyoxylate Shunt
Authors: Orr James S. , Christensen David G. , Wolfe Alan J. , Rao Christopher V.
Published: October 2018

Many microorganisms produce fermentation products during aerobic growth on sugars. One of the best-known examples is the production of acetate by
Escherichia coli
during aerobic growth on sugars. In
E. coli
, acetate production is reversible: once the cells consume the available sugar, they can consume the acetate previously produced during aerobic fermentation. We found that pH affects the reversibility of acetate production. When the cells produce significant acetate during growth in acidic environments, they are unable to consume it. Unconsumed acetate may accumulate in the cell and inhibit the expression of pathways required for acetate catabolism. These findings demonstrate how acetate alters cell metabolism; they also may be useful for the design of aerobic fermentation processes.
Transcriptional Heterogeneity of
Cryptococcus gattii
VGII Compared with Non-VGII Lineages Underpins Key Pathogenicity Pathways
Authors: Farrer Rhys A. , Ford Christopher B. , Rhodes Johanna , Delorey Toni , May Robin C. , Fisher Matthew C. , Cloutman-Green Elaine , Balloux Francois , Cuomo Christina A.
Published: October 2018

The transcriptional profiles of related pathogens and their responses to host-induced stresses underpin their pathogenicity. Expression differences between related pathogens during host interaction can indicate when and how these genes contribute to virulence, ultimately informing new and improved treatment strategies for those diseases. In this paper, we compare the transcriptional profiles of five isolates representing four lineages of
C. gattii
in rich media. Our analyses identified key processes, including those involving cell capsule, ergosterol production, and melanin, that are differentially expressed between lineages, and we found that VGII has the most distinct profile in terms of numbers of differentially expressed genes. All lineages have also undergone subfunctionalization for several paralogs, including capsule biosynthesis and attachment genes. Most genes appeared downregulated during coincubation with macrophages, with the largest decrease observed for capsule attachment genes, which appeared to be coordinated with a stress response, as all lineages also upregulated oxidative stress response genes. Furthermore, VGII upregulated many genes that are linked to ergosterol biosynthesis and switched from expression of the laccase
LAC1
to expression of
LAC2 ex vivo
. Finally, we saw a pronounced increase in the FosB/Jun/Egr1 regulatory proteins at early time points in bone marrow-derived macrophages, marking a role in the host response to
C. gattii
. This work highlights the dynamic roles of key
C. gattii
virulence genes in response to macrophages.
Immune Modulatory Potential of Anti-idiotype Antibodies as a Surrogate of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Antigen
Authors: Naveed Ahsan , Rahman Sajjad Ur , Arshad Muhammad Imran , Aslam Bilal
Published: October 2018

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a contagious viral disease of animals. Multiple serotypes and antigenic variation in the viral genome are probably the factors that reduce control of the disease. Currently, the vaccines employed against FMD use killed virus. The inactivation or killing of the virus makes it less immunogenic and reduces its immunoprophylactic potential. To cope with this situation, the present study was designed, anti-idiotype FMD virus antigen was prepared, and the immunogenic potential of the antigen was compared to that of commercial killed-virus vaccines. The overall results showed that a persistent and strong immune response occurred with anti-idiotype FMD virus antigen. Thus, anti-idiotype FMD virus antigen may serve as a potential surrogate of FMD virus vaccines.
Environmental, behavioural and multicomponent interventions to reduce adults' sitting time: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Peachey Melissa M , Richardson Julie , V Tang Ada , Dal-Bello Haas Vanina , Gravesande Janelle
Published: October 2018

Objective

To examine the overall effectiveness of interventions for reducing adult sedentary behaviour and to directly compare environmental, behavioural and multicomponent interventions.

Design

Intervention systematic review with meta-analysis.

Data sources

Ovid PsycINFO, Ovid MEDLINE, EBSCOHost CINAHL, EBSCOHost SPORTDiscus and PubMed were searched from inception to 26 July 2017.

Eligibility criteria

Trials including randomised controlled trials, quasi-randomised, cluster-randomised, parallel group, prepost, factorial and crossover trials where the primary aim was to change the sedentary behaviour of healthy adults assessed by self-report (eg, questionnaires, logs) or objective measures (eg, accelerometry).

Results

Thirty-eight trials of 5983 participants published between 2003 and 2017 were included in the qualitative synthesis; 35 studies were included in the quantitative analysis (meta-analysis). The pooled effect was a significant reduction in daily sitting time of −30.37 min/day (95% CI −40.86 to −19.89) favouring the intervention group. Reductions in sitting time were similar between workplace (−29.96 min/day; 95% CI −44.05 to –15.87) and other settings (−30.47 min/day; 95% CI −44.68 to –16.26), which included community, domestic and recreational environments. Environmental interventions had the largest reduction in daily sitting time (−40.59 min/day; 95% CI −61.65 to –19.53), followed by multicomponent (−35.53 min/day; 95% CI −57.27 to –13.79) and behavioural (−23.87 min/day; 95% CI −37.24 to –10.49) interventions.

Conclusion

Interventions targeting adult sedentary behaviour reduced daily sitting time by an average of 30 min/day, which was likely clinically meaningful.
Feasibility and safety of targeting the anterior superior iliac spine to perform a bone marrow procedure: a prospective, clinical study
Authors: Reed Loius J , Attarian Shirin , Olson Todd R , Singh Shashi , Shestopalov Alexander , Friedman Ellen W
Published: October 2018

Aims

The bone marrow procedure (BMP) has been performed worldwide for years. Nonetheless, no generally accepted standards or guidelines for the performance of the BMP exist. Recent studies suggested that the lateral angulation technique (LAT), targeting the anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS) after penetration of the posterior superior iliac spine, yields longer biopsy cores and is safer for patients. We assessed the feasibility and safety of targeting the ASIS in the prone and lateral decubitus positions.

Methods

We first observed the BMP needle tracks on cadavers. Our cadaver study revealed that the LAT is feasible and safe but requires different operator techniques. Next, we studied 25 adult haematology patients undergoing elective BMP via the LAT approach. Patients returned 5 days after the BMP for a haemoglobin assessment, pain questionnaire and low-dose non-contract CT.

Results

8% of patients reported persistent pain. No fall in haemoglobin and no pelvic haematomas or neurovascular injuries were detected. 88% of BMPs were successfully accomplished by targeting the ASIS. 12% required a back-up traditional angulation technique (TAT), directing the needle straight in, perpendicular to the coronal plane of the back. All three demonstrated inadvertent, but asymptomatic, penetration of the sacrum. Biopsy lengths were compared with a historical TAT control demonstrating that specimens obtained by LAT are significantly longer. Imaging studies showed that a seven-degree change in needle direction can convert a TAT to a LAT.

Conclusion

The LAT approach is feasible, safe and more productive than the TAT, and may be the preferred standard for training haematologists.

Trial registration number

NCT02524613.
Heated tobacco products likely appeal to adolescents and young adults
Authors: McKelvey Karma , Popova Lucy , Kim Minji , Chaffee Benjamin W , Vijayaraghavan Maya , Ling Pamela , Halpern-Felsher Bonnie
Published: October 2018

Background

Beginning in the 1960s in the USA and globally since 1998, tobacco companies have beenaggressively promoting heated tobacco products (HTP). In 2016, Philip Morris International (PMI) applied to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeking authorisation to market their IQOS HTP system and flavoured ‘HeatSticks’ in the USA as a modified-risk tobacco product (MRTP).

Methods

We systematically evaluated the publicly available data PMI submitted to FDA in its MRTP application to determine whether PMI’s IQOS product meets the US Tobacco Control Act’s standard for MRTP claims. We examined whether PMI provided sufficient data showing tobacco users will not initiate with IQOS, that youth will not misperceive the MRTP-related claims being made concerning IQOS, and how youth perceive health risks associated with IQOS.

Results

PMI’s own studies failed to provide evidence that youth, including non-users and former users, will not find IQOS appealing, will not initiate use of IQOS and will not perceive these products as risk-free. Further, PMI did not refer to independent studies conducted among adolescents which could influence their conclusions. Finally, their studies suffered from design and implementation flaws and cannot be relied on to support the proffered claims.

Conclusion

PMI’s own data and available evidence from scientific studies conducted independent of the tobacco industry regarding how novel tobacco products are currently being marketed suggest that introduction of IQOS will result in adolescent and young adult non-users initiating tobacco use with IQOS and could also increase poly-use of IQOS along with other tobacco products.
Nutrient content and viscosity of Saskatchewan-grown pulses in relation to their cooking quality
Authors: Abdel-Aal El-Sayed M. , Ragaee Sanaa , Rabalski Iwona , Warkentin Tom , Vandenberg Albert
Published: October 2018

Pulses are staple foods that are gaining recognition as sources of non-gluten proteins, slow digestible starch, and dietary fiber. Several factors contribute to the cooking quality of pulses including genetics, environment, and their interactions. In this study, four cultivars each of faba bean, lentil, and pea were evaluated for nutrient content, flour viscosity measured by a rapid visco analyzer, and acid and alkaline extract viscosity determined by a cone-plate viscometer. These properties were analyzed in relation to seed hydration and firmness of cooked pulses measured by a texture analyzer to better understand their relationships with and contribution to pulse cooking quality. Pea had the lowest protein (18.7%–22.3%) and highest starch (43.0%–46.3%) followed by lentil (protein 25.1%–26.7%, starch 38.4%–45.5%) and finally faba bean (protein 26.5%–29.2%, starch 38.4%–41.8%). Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed among cultivars within each crop in hydration capacity and firmness of cooked seeds. Rapid visco analyzer viscosity of pulse flours showed significant differences (P < 0.05) among crops and cultivars, and was significantly correlated with firmness. Firmness was significantly correlated with protein and ash content. The results suggest that firmness of cooked pulses is significantly influenced by seed components and starch behavior during heating, indicating the importance of viscosity in determining the cooking quality of pulses.
Modeling of multiphysics coupling and performance analysis of V-shaped electrothermal microactuator
Authors: Wang Zhenlu , Zhang Jiue , Tong Changhong
Published: October 2018

Electrothermal microactuators have a very promising future in MEMS applications since they can generate large displacement and force with low actuating voltages and small device areas. In this paper, a temperature distribution and unload displacement model of a V-shaped electrothermal microactuator are presented. In order to prove the accuracy of the model, finite element analysis (FEA) and experimental results are provided for comparison. The results of temperature profile and unload displacement output, which are from the model calculation, FEA and experimental test, agree well with each other. It gives an indirect proof that the model is correct and FEA calculation is practicable. It can be shown that the shape of the actuator has no effect on the maximum temperature, and the unload displacement and output force depend on the beam length and inclined angle of the actuator.
Crystal structure and microwave dielectric characteristics of Zr-substituted Ni0.5Ti0.5NbO4 ceramic
Authors: Wu Mengjuan , Chen Jundan , Zhang Yingchun
Published: October 2018

Ni[Formula: see text](Ti[Formula: see text]Zrx)NbO4 microwave dielectric ceramics were prepared via the conventional solid-state reaction route. The phase transitions and microstructure were analyzed using X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. For [Formula: see text], the Ni[Formula: see text](Ti[Formula: see text]Zrx)NbO4 ceramics exhibited coexistence of rutile and wolframite phase. The microwave dielectric properties were strongly related to the density, sintering condition, and chemical composition of samples. The Zr-substitution could inhibit the abnormal grain growth effectively which reduced the ceramic dielectric loss. When [Formula: see text] increased from 0 to 0.3, the [Formula: see text] values of Ni[Formula: see text](Ti[Formula: see text]Zrx)NbO4 ceramics increased from 7294[Formula: see text]GHz to 21798[Formula: see text]GHz, but the second phase caused the decrease of dielectric constant to 35.73. For Ni[Formula: see text](Ti[Formula: see text]Zr[Formula: see text]NbO4 ceramics, [Formula: see text] can be achieved when [Formula: see text].
BiFeO3-BaTiO3: A new generation of lead-free electroceramics
Authors: Wang Dawei , Wang Ge , Murakami Shunsuke , Fan Zhongming , Feteira Antonio , Zhou Di , Sun Shikuan , Zhao Quanliang , Reaney Ian M.
Published: October 2018

Lead-based electroceramics such as Pb(Zr.Ti)O3 (PZT) and its derivatives have excellent piezoelectric, pyroelectric and energy storage properties and can be used in a wide range of applications. Potential lead-free replacements for PZT such as potassium sodium niobate (KNN) and sodium bismuth titanate (NBT) have a much more limited range of useful properties and have been optimized primarily for piezoelectric applications. Here, we review the initial results on a new generation of lead-free electroceramics based on BiFeO3-BaTiO3 (BF-BT) highlighting the essential crystal chemistry that permits a wide range of functional properties. We demonstrate that with the appropriate dopants and heat treatment, BF-BT can be used to fabricate commercially viable ceramics for applications, ranging from sensors, multilayer actuators, capacitors and high-density energy storage devices. We also assess the potential of BF-BT-based ceramics for electrocaloric and pyroelectric applications.
A Universal Tree Balancing Theorem
Authors: Ganardi Moses , Lohrey Markus
Published: October 2018

We present a general framework for balancing expressions (terms) in the form of so-called tree straight-line programs. The latter can be seen as circuits over the free term algebra extended by contexts (terms with a hole) and the operations, which insert terms/contexts into contexts. In Ref. [16], it was shown that one can compute for a given term of sizenin logspace a tree straight-line program of depthO(logn) and sizeO(n/ logn). In the present article, it is shown that the conversion can be done in DLOGTIME-uniform TC0. This allows reducing the term evaluation problem over an arbitrary algebra A to the term evaluation problem over a derived two-sorted algebraF(A). Three applications are presented: (i) an alternative proof for a recent result by Krebs et al. [25] on the expression evaluation problem is given; (ii) it is shown that expressions for an arbitrary (possibly non-commutative) semiring can be transformed in DLOGTIME-uniform TC0into equivalent circuits of logarithmic depth and sizeO(n/ logn); and, (iii) a corresponding result for regular expressions is shown.
Characteristics and Outcomes of 79 Patients with an Insulinoma: A Nationwide Retrospective Study in Finland
Authors: Peltola Elina , Hannula Päivi , Huhtala Heini , Metso Saara , Kiviniemi Ulla , Vornanen Martine , Sand Juhani , Laukkarinen Johanna , Tiikkainen Mirja , Schalin-Jäntti Camilla , Arola Johanna , Sirén Jukka , Piiroinen Antti , Soinio Minna , Nuutila Pirjo , Söderström Mirva , Hämäläinen Hanna , Moilanen Leena , Laaksonen David , Pirinen Elina , Sundelin Fia , Ebeling Tapani , Salmela Pasi , Mäkinen Markus J. , Jaatinen Pia
Published: October 2018

Objective. Insulinomas are rare pancreatic tumours. Population-based data on their incidence, clinical picture, diagnosis, and treatment are almost nonexistent. The aim of this study was to clarify these aspects in a nationwide cohort of insulinoma patients diagnosed during three decades. Design and Methods. Retrospective analysis on all adult patients diagnosed with insulinoma in Finland during 1980–2010. Results. Seventy-nine patients were diagnosed with insulinoma over the research period. The median follow-up from diagnosis to last control visit was one (min 0, max 31) year. The incidence increased from 0.5/million/year in the 1980s to 0.9/million/year in the 2000s (p=0.002). The median diagnostic delay was 13 months and did not change over the study period. The mean age at diagnosis was 52 (SD 16) years. The overall imaging sensitivity improved from 39% in the 1980s to 98% in the 2000s (p<0.001). Seventy-one (90%) of the patients underwent surgery with a curative aim, two (3%) had palliative surgery, and 6 (8%) were inoperable. There were no significant differences in the types of surgical procedures between the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s; tumour enucleations comprised 43% of the operations, distal pancreatic resections 45%, and pancreaticoduodenectomies 12%, over the whole study period. Of the patients who underwent surgery with a curative aim, 89% had a full recovery. Postoperative complications occurred in half of the patients, but postoperative mortality was rare. Conclusions. The incidence of insulinomas has increased during the past three decades. Despite the improved diagnostic options, diagnostic delay has remained unchanged. To shorten the delay, clinicians should be informed and alert to consider the possibility of hypoglycemia and insulinoma, when symptomatic attacks are investigated in different sectors of the healthcare system. Developing the surgical treatment is another major target, in order to lower the overall complication rate, without compromising the high cure rate of insulinomas.
Effect of the Composition of CAD/CAM Composite Blocks on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Alamoush Rasha A. , Silikas Nick , Salim Nesreen A. , Al-Nasrawi Suhad , Satterthwaite Julian D.
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the composition of CAD/CAM blocks on their mechanical properties. Nine different CAD/CAM blocks, enamel and dentine, were tested. Sixteen samples of each material were separated for Vickers microhardness test (n=6, 5 readings per specimen), nanohardness test (n=6, 5 readings per specimen), filler weight (n=3), and SEM imaging (n=1). Data were statistically analysed using one-way ANOVA. Vita Mark II ceramic showed significantly higher values of hardness (in both nano- and microscale) and elastic modulus (6.83 GPa, 502 kg/mm2, and 47.7 GPa), respectively, than other materials. CAD/CAM composite blocks showed comparable values of hardness and elastic modulus to those of dentine but lower than those of enamel and ceramics. SEM images highlighted different filler-matrix microstructure of CAD/CAM composite blocks. It was concluded that (1) hardness and elastic moduli are positively correlated with ceramic filler percentage and microstructure and (2) CAD/CAM composite materials have comparable hardness and elastic moduli to tooth structure.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Probiotics on Cytokine Profiles
Authors: Azad Md. Abul Kalam , Sarker Manobendro , Wan Dan
Published: October 2018

Probiotics confer immunological protection to the host through the regulation, stimulation, and modulation of immune responses. Researchers have shifted their attention to better understand the immunomodulatory effects of probiotics, which have the potential to prevent or alleviate certain pathologies for which proper medical treatment is as yet unavailable. It has been scientifically established that immune cells (T- and B-cells) mediate adaptive immunity and confer immunological protection by developing pathogen-specific memory. However, this review is intended to present the recent studies on immunomodulatory effects of probiotics. In the early section of this review, concepts of probiotics and common probiotic strains are focused on. On a priority basis, the immune system, along with mucosal immunity in the human body, is discussed in this study. It has been summarized that a number of species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium exert vital roles in innate immunity by increasing the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells and phagocytosis of macrophages and mediate adaptive immunity by interacting with enterocytes and dendritic, Th1, Th2, and Treg cells. Finally, immunomodulatory effects of probiotics on proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production in different animal models have been extensively reviewed in this paper. Therefore, isolating new probiotic strains and investigating their immunomodulatory effects on cytokine profiles in humans remain a topical issue.
Extensive Macular Atrophy with Pseudodrusen Imaged with OCT Angiography
Authors: Kovach Jaclyn L.
Published: October 2018

This report describes the first case of extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen (EMAP) imaged with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). A 58-year-old Caucasian man presented with decreased central vision in both eyes. Fundus examination showed large areas of macular atrophy centered on the fovea surrounded by diffuse reticular pseudodrusen. Spectral domain OCT (SDOCT) revealed outer retinal and choriocapillaris atrophy. OCTA demonstrated marked absence of choriocapillaris flow. Extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen is a rare clinical entity and a new extreme phenotype of macular degenerations that could shed more light on the role of pseudodrusen and choriocapillaris compromise in the pathogenesis of AMD.