bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of thyroid hormone on cardiac function following orthotopic heart transplantation in piglets
Authors: Kumar T. K. Susheel , Mathis Craig , Sathanandam Shyam , Zurakowski David , Subramanian Saradha , Allen Jerry , Solimine Michael , Berrios Lindsay , Jackson Scott , Landers Mark , Sullivan Ryan , Barnett Stacey , Rayburn Mark , Loftis Christopher , Price Lauren , Tansey James B. , Hoskoppal Deepthi , Knott‐Craig Christopher
Published: July 2017

Studies in adult HT have demonstrated improved cardiac function in the recipient following administration of T3 to the donor. The purpose of this experiment was to assess the effects of T3 on the function of the immature donor heart following HT in a piglet model. A total of 32 piglets were divided into 16 donors and 16 recipients. Following creation of brain death, half of the donor piglets were randomized to receive three doses of T3 (0.2 μg/kg) along with hydrocortisone (1 mg/kg). The donor hearts were then transplanted into the recipient piglets on CPB. Duration of survival off CPB, inotrope score, and EF of heart following CPB were evaluated. There were no differences between the two groups in age, weight, pre‐brain death EF, T3 levels, and CPB times. Post‐CPB survival times were inversely related to the ischemic times in both groups (Pearson r=−0.80, P<.001), and this relationship was not influenced by T3. There was no difference in inotrope score, EF, or biochemical assessment between the two groups. Administration of T3 in combination with hydrocortisone to the brain‐dead donor confers no beneficial effect on myocardial function or survival following HT in a piglet model.
Mediation Analysis for Count and Zero-Inflated Count Data Without Sequential Ignorability and its Application in Dental Studies
Authors: Guo Zijian , Small Dylan S. , Gansky Stuart A. , Cheng Jing
Published: July 2017

Mediation analysis seeks to understand the mechanism by which a treatment affects an outcome. Count or zero-inflated count outcomes are common in many studies in which mediation analysis is of interest. For example, in dental studies, outcomes such as the number of decayed, missing and filled teeth are typically zero inflated. Existing mediation analysis approaches for count data often assume sequential ignorability of the mediator. This is often not plausible because the mediator is not randomized so unmeasured confounders are associated with the mediator and the outcome. We develop causal methods based on instrumental variable approaches for mediation analysis for count data possibly with many 0s that do not require the assumption of sequential ignorability. We first define the direct and indirect effect ratios for those data, and then we propose estimating equations and use empirical likelihood to estimate the direct and indirect effects consistently. A sensitivity analysis is proposed for violations of the instrumental variables exclusion restriction assumption. Simulation studies demonstrate that our method works well for different types of outcome under various settings. Our method is applied to a randomized dental caries prevention trial and a study of the effect of a massive flood in Bangladesh on children's diarrhoea.
Palaeoenvironmental and diagenetic reconstruction of a closed‐lacustrine carbonate system – the challenging marginal setting of the Miocene Ries Crater Lake (Germany)
Authors: Christ Nicolas , Maerz Sven , Kutschera Edgar , Kwiecien Ola , Mutti Maria
Published: July 2017

Chemostratigraphic studies on lacustrine sedimentary sequences provide essential insights on past cyclic climatic events, on their repetition and prediction through time. Diagenetic overprint of primary features often hinders the use of such studies for palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. Here the potential of integrated geochemical and petrographic methods is evaluated to record freshwater to saline oscillations within the ancient marginal lacustrine carbonates of the Miocene Ries Crater Lake (Germany). This area is critical because it represents the transition from shoreline to proximal domains of a hydrologically closed system, affected by recurrent emergent events, representing the boundaries of successive sedimentary cycles. Chemostratigraphy targets shifts related to subaerial exposure and/or climatic fluctuations. Methods combine facies changes with δ13C–δ18O chemostratigraphy from matrix carbonates across five closely spaced, temporally equivalent stratigraphic sections. Isotope composition of ostracod shells, gastropods and cements is provided for comparison. Cathodoluminescence and back‐scatter electron microscopy were performed to discriminate primary (syn‐)depositional, from secondary diagenetic features. Meteoric diagenesis is expressed by substantial early dissolution and dark blue luminescent sparry cements carrying negative δ13C and δ18O. Sedimentary cycles are not correlated by isotope chemostratigraphy. Both matrix δ13C and δ18O range from ca −7·5 to +4·0‰ and show clear positive covariance (R = 0·97) whose nature differs from that of previous basin‐oriented studies on the lake: negative values are here unconnected to original freshwater lacustrine conditions but reflect extensive meteoric diagenesis, while positive values probably represent primary saline lake water chemistry. Noisy geochemical curves relate to heterogeneities in (primary) porosity, resulting in selective carbonate diagenesis. This study exemplifies that ancient lacustrine carbonates, despite extensive meteoric weathering, are able to retain key information for both palaeoenvironmental reconstruction and the understanding of diagenetic processes in relation to those primary conditions. Also, it emphasizes the limitation of chemostratigraphy in fossil carbonates, and specifically in settings that are sensitive for the preservation of primary environmental signals, such as lake margins prone to meteoric diagenesis.
Design and Stability Analysis of an Integral Time-Delay Feedback Control Combined With an Open-Loop Control for an Infinitely Variable Transmission System
Authors: Wang X. F. , Zhu W. D.
Published: July 2017

The kinematic model of an infinitely variable transmission (IVT) is introduced, and the nonlinear differential equation for the dynamic model of the IVT system with a permanent magnetic direct current (DC) motor and a magnetic brake is derived. To make the average of the input speed converge to a desired constant for any input power and output load, an integral time-delay feedback control combined with an open-loop control is used to adjust the speed ratio of the IVT. The speed ratio for the open-loop control is obtained by a modified incremental harmonic balance (IHB) method. Existence and convergence of a periodic solution are proved under a condition for parameters of the IVT system, and uniqueness of the periodic solution is proved by converting the nonlinear differential equation to a new differential equation that is Lipchitz in the dependent variable and piecewise continuous in the independent variable. A time-delay variable that is an approximation of the average of the input speed is used as the feedback to control the changing rate of the speed ratio. The IVT system with the time-delay control variable can be converted to a distributed-parameter system. Thus, the spectral Tau method is used to design the time-delay feedback control so that the IVT system is locally exponentially stable. The static error from the open-loop control is eliminated; the feedback control variable with time-delay is smoother than that without time-delay, which yields a lower control effort and more robust control design, since the time-delay variable that acts as a low-pass filter reduces the effect of the instantaneous change of the IVT system.
Relationships Between Model Estimates and Actual Match-Performance Indices in Professional Australian Footballers During an In-Season Macrocycle
Authors: Graham Stuart R. , Cormack Stuart , Parfitt Gaynor , Eston Roger
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To assess and compare the validity of internal and external Australian football (AF) training-load measures for predicting match exercise intensity (MEI/min) and player-rank score (PRScore) using a variable dose-response model. Methods: A cohort of 25 professional AF players (23 ± 3 y, 188.3 ± 7.2 cm, 87.7 ± 8.4 kg) completed a 24-wk in-season macrocycle. In-season internal training and match load were quantified using session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) and external load from satellite and accelerometer data. Using a training-impulse (TRIMP) calculation, external load (au) was represented as distance (TRIMPDist), distance ≥4.16 m/s (TRIMPHSDist), and PlayerLoad (TRIMPPL). In-season training load, MEI/min, and PRScore were applied to a variable dose-response model, which provided estimates of MEI/min and PRScore. Predicted MEI/min and PRScore were correlated with actual measures from each match. The magnitude of the difference between MEI/min and PRScore estimates for each model input and the difference between the precision of internal and external load measures to predict MEI/min and PRScore were calculated using the effect size ± 90% confidence interval (CI). Results: Estimates of MEI/min demonstrated very large associations with actual MEI/min (r, 90% CI) (eg, TRIMPDist .76 ± .13, and sRPESkills .73 ± .14). Estimates of PRScore demonstrated associations of large magnitude with actual PRScore using the same inputs. Precision of actual MEI/min was lowest using sRPE compared with (ES ± 90% CI) TRIMPDist, −.67 ± .34, and TRIMPPL, −.91 ± .39. There were trivial and unclear differences in the precision of PRScore estimates between TRIMP and sRPE inputs. Conclusions: Dose-response models from multiple training-load inputs can predict within-individual variation of MEI/min and PRScore. Internal and external training-input methods exhibited comparable predictive power.
A nanosecond time-resolved XFEL analysis of structural changes associated with CO release from cytochrome c oxidase
Authors: Shimada Atsuhiro , Kubo Minoru , Baba Seiki , Yamashita Keitaro , Hirata Kunio , Ueno Go , Nomura Takashi , Kimura Tetsunari , Shinzawa-Itoh Kyoko , Baba Junpei , Hatano Keita , Eto Yuki , Miyamoto Akari , Murakami Hironori , Kumasaka Takashi , Owada Shigeki , Tono Kensuke , Yabashi Makina , Yamaguchi Yoshihiro , Yanagisawa Sachiko , Sakaguchi Miyuki , Ogura Takashi , Komiya Ryo , Yan Jiwang , Yamashita Eiki , Yamamoto Masaki , Ago Hideo , Yoshikawa Shinya , Tsukihara Tomitake
Published: July 2017

XFEL and IR analyses suggest that O
2
bound at Cu
B
blocks proton backflow for unidirectional H
+
transport by water channel closure.
Fluorinated h-BN as a magnetic semiconductor
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sruthi , Das Deya , Samanta Atanu , de los Reyes Carlos A. , Deng Liangzi , Alemany Lawrence B. , Weldeghiorghis Thomas K. , Khabashesku Valery N. , Kochat Vidya , Jin Zehua , Sudeep Parambath M. , Martí Angel A. , Chu Ching-Wu , Roy Ajit , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Singh Abhishek K. , Ajayan Pulickel M.
Published: July 2017

A strategic approach toward functionalization can change properties: effect of the “oxidizer of oxygen” on hexagonal boron nitride.
Specificity of Subtilin-Mediated Activation of Histidine Kinase SpaK
Authors: Geiger Christoph , Spieß Tobias , Korn Sophie Marianne , Kötter Peter , Entian Karl-Dieter
Published: July 2017

Autoinduction via two-component systems is a widespread regulatory mechanism that senses environmental and metabolic changes. Although the lantibiotics nisin and subtilin are closely related and share the same lanthionine ring structure, they autoinduce their biosynthesis in a highly specific manner. Subtilin activates only the two-component system SpaRK of
Bacillus subtilis
, whereas nisin activates solely the two-component system NisRK of
Lactococcus lactis
. To identify components that determine the specificity of subtilin autoinduction, several variants of the respective lantibiotics were analyzed for their autoinductive capacities. Here, we show that amino acid position 20 is crucial for SpaK activation, as an engineered nisin molecule with phenylalanine at position 20 (nisin N20F) was able to activate SpaK in a specific manner. In combination with the N-terminal tryptophan of subtilin (nisin I1W/N20F), SpaK autoinduction reached almost the level of subtilin-mediated autoinduction. Furthermore, the overall structure of subtilin is also important for its association with the histidine kinase. The destruction of the second lanthionine ring (subtilin C11A, ring B), as well as mutations that interfere with the flexibility of the hinge region located between lanthionine rings C and D (subtilin L21P/Q22P), abolished SpaK autoinduction. Although the C-terminal part of subtilin is needed for efficient SpaK autoinduction, the destruction of lanthionine rings D and E had no measurable impact. Based on these findings, a model for the interaction of subtilin with histidine kinase SpaK was established.

IMPORTANCE
Although two-component systems are important regulatory systems that sense environmental changes, very little information on the molecular mechanism of sensing or the interaction of the sensor with its respective kinase is available. The strong specificity of linear lantibiotics such as subtilin and nisin for their respective kinases provides an excellent model system to unravel the structural needs of these lantibiotics for activating histidine kinases in a specific manner. More than that, the biosyntheses of lantibiotics are autoinduced via two-component systems. Therefore, an understanding of their interactions with histidine kinases is needed for the biosynthesis of newly engineered peptide antibiotics. Using a
Bacillus subtilis
-based reporter system, we were able to identify the molecular constraints that are necessary for specific SpaK activation and to provide SpaK specificity to nisin with just two point mutations.
Syndromic congenital diarrhoea: new SPINT2 mutation identified in the UAE
Authors: Bou Chaaya Solange , Eason Julian D , Ofoegbu Bibian N
Published: July 2017

We are reporting a new mutation in the SPINT2 gene (c.443G>A (p. Arg148His)) that explains the association of choanal atresia with congenital sodium diarrhoea (CSD) in an Emirati family in the Middle East. To our knowledge, this mutation is neither listed in a mutation database nor described in the literature. Similar to other patients with CSD associated with SPINT2, this child remains dependent on parenteral nutrition for fluids and nutritional support resulting in failure to thrive. The determination of the molecular basis of syndromic CSD will facilitate prenatal and postnatal diagnosis of patients and will contribute to counselling of affected families, especially in areas like the UAE where consanguineous marriages are not uncommon.
Solitary fibrous tumour: a rare tumour of the pleural cavity
Authors: Bar-Haim Ronit , Gavrilov Alexe , Samokhvalov Alexander , Altman Edward
Published: July 2017

Solitary fibrous tumours are a rare group of tumours that originate from connective tissues such as the pleura and mediastinum. When growing within the thoracic cavity these tumours exert pressure on vital organs and large vessels. We have successfully operated on two patients with large solitary fibrous tumours and managed the pathophysiological changes manifested as superior vena cava syndrome resulting from these tumours.
A motivational interview intervention delivered at home to improve the oral health literacy and reduce the morbidity of Chilean disadvantaged families: a study protocol for a community trial
Authors: Cartes-Velasquez Ricardo , Araya Carlos , Flores Raúl , Luengo Luis , Castillo Francisca , Bustos Alex
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Oral health education/promotion interventions have been identified as cost-efficient tools to improve the oral health of the population. These interventions are regularly made in contexts where the target population is captive, for example, in health centres. In Chile, there are no oral health interventions delivered at home.

Methods and analysis

This community trial covers two disadvantaged urban areas in the province of Concepción. Both sectors have public preschool education coverage with a traditional programme (TP) to promote oral health. The intervention will comprise four to six visits by dental hygienists trained in the delivery of a standardised oral health promotion programme using motivational interviewing (MI) at home. The experimental group will receive TP and MI, while the control group will receive only TP. If a positive and significant effect of MI is found, this will be administered to the control group. For a 50% reduction in the incidence of caries, a sample size of 120 preschoolers per group is estimated. Data will be gathered on demographic and socioeconomic variables; oral health outcomes using WHO oral health indicators (the prevalence and severity of caries, periodontal disease, dentofacial anomalies and oral hygiene); the oral health literacy of caregivers, measured by the Rapid Estimation of Adult Literacy in Dentistry and the Oral Health Literacy Instrument, both validated for the Chilean population. Assessments will take place at baseline and at 12-month follow-up.

Ethics and dissemination

The university bioethics committee approved this study (EI/21/2014). We will submit the trial’s results for presentation at international scientific meetings and to peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12615000450516.
Being normal, not vulnerable: case study of a 2-day residential programme for young adults with cancer
Authors: Martins Ana , Taylor Rachel M , Morgan Sue , Fern Lorna A
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To identify and describe the outcomes and facilitating processes of participation at ‘Find Your Sense of Tumour’ (FYSOT), a 2-day residential programme/conference for young people with cancer, from the perspective of professionals attending and patient representatives.

Design

Case study.

Setting

Observation of the ‘Find Your Sense of Tumour’ over 18s residential programme and face-to-face interviews in hospital and phone interviews.

Participants

Twenty-six participants — 19 professionals from hospitals across the UK who accompanied young people to FYSOT; 3 programme organisers; and 4 young people from the programme steering committee.

Methods

Participant observation and semistructured interviews.

Results

This process evaluation of an educational, social and peer-to-peer support residential weekend for young people with cancer identified key outcomes for young people — positive attitudes (increased sociability, confidence), belonging (feeling accepted, understood), recreation (trying new activities, having fun) and increased knowledge (balance between educational talks and interactions with other young people); and three overarching facilitating processes — being with other young people, the professionals accompanying young people to the event for support and guidance, and the conference/intentional programming. Being in a safe, relaxed and fun environment with other young people facilitates the development of peer support networks and increases young people’s confidence and knowledge. Although the focus of the residential programme is on young people, interviewees acknowledge the impact of attending on professionals’ motivation, learning and changes in practice.

Conclusions

This study has extended our understanding of the role of residential programmes by identifying outcomes and facilitating mechanisms. We have shown that residential programmes have an important role in providing participants with social, emotional and informational support, as well as play an important role in redefining normality. Longitudinal quantitative and qualitative research is needed to optimise outcomes and design and implement quality programmes that support young people’s development.
Feeding styles, parenting styles and snacking behaviour in children attending primary schools in multiethnic neighbourhoods: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Lu , van de Gaar Vivian M , Jansen Wilma , Mieloo Cathelijne L , van Grieken Amy , Raat Hein
Published: July 2017

Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether feeding styles and parenting styles are associated with children’s unhealthy snacking behaviour and whether the associations differ according to children’s ethnic background.

Method

Cross-sectional data from the population-based ‘Water Campaign’ study were used. Parents (n=644) of primary school children (6–13 years) completed a questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, feeding style dimensions (‘control over eating’, ‘emotional feeding’, ‘encouragement to eat’ and ‘instrumental feeding’), parenting style dimensions (‘involvement’ and ‘strictness’) and children’s unhealthy snacking behaviour. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine whether feeding styles and parenting styles were associated with children’s unhealthy snacking behaviour.

Result

Overall, children whose parents had a higher extent of ‘control over eating’ had a lower odds of eating unhealthy snacks more than once per day (OR, 0.57; 95% CI 0.42 to 0.76). Further stratified analysis showed that ‘control over eating’ was associated with less unhealthy snacking behaviour only in children with a Dutch (OR, 0.37; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.68) or a Moroccan/Turkish (OR, 0.44; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.77) ethnic background. ‘Encouragement to eat’ was associated with a lower odds of eating unhealthy snacks every day in children with a Dutch ethnic background only (OR, 0.48; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.90). ‘Instrumental feeding’ was associated with a higher odds of eating unhealthy snacks more than once a day in children with a Moroccan/Turkish ethnic background only (OR, 1.43; 95% CI 1.01 to 2.04).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that ‘control over eating’ may be associated with less unhealthy snack consumption in children. The associations of feeding styles and parenting styles with children’s unhealthy snacking behaviour differed between children with different ethnic backgrounds.
Trends and factors in human immunodeficiency virus and/or hepatitis C virus testing and infection among injection drug users newly entering methadone maintenance treatment in Guangdong Province, China 2006-2013: a consecutive cross sectional study
Authors: Liu Yin , Liu Yu , Zou Xia , Chen Wen , Ling Li
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To assess trends and related factors in HIV and/or hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody testing and infection among injection drug users (IDUs) newly entering methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in Guangdong Province, China.

Method

Consecutive cross sectional surveys were conducted in 14 MMT clinics from July 2006 to December 2013 in Guangdong Province, China. IDUs were excluded if they were re-enrolled or referred from other MMT clinics. Trend tests were used to examine HIV and/or HCV testing and infection, sociodemographic characteristics, drug use related behaviours and the past 3 month sexual behaviours on enrolment. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify correlates of HIV and/or HCV testing and infection.

Results

7539 IDUs with an average age of 35.6±6.2 years were newly enrolled with a history of injection for an average of 11.8±4.9 years. The average frequency of injection before enrolment had been increasing. HIV, HCV and HIV/HCV dual testing increased from 2006 to 2013 (ptrend<0.001). However, all three types of infections remained stable (ptrend>0.05) until reaching a peak in 2011, excluding the first year. Associating with fellow drug users 1–4 times during the past month, injecting for 15+ years and having multiple sexual partners during the past 3 months predicted higher percentages for HIV and/or HCV testing (p<0.05), while those injecting 4+ times per day in the past month and those who had ever shared needles were less likely to take both tests (p<0.05). Having multiple sexual partners, a longer duration of injection drug use and sharing needles or sharing more frequently were major risk factors for HIV, HCV and HIV/HCV co-infection (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The prevalence of HIV and HCV were high and quite stable among new IDU entrants in MMT. Publicising MMT, routine screening, and behavioural and structural interventions is needed.
Lag time for retinoblastoma in the UK revisited: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Posner Marcus , Jaulim Adil , Vasalaki Marina , Rantell Khadija , Sagoo Mandeep S , Reddy M Ashwin
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To explore current delays in diagnosis of retinoblastoma (Rb) and effect on outcome with comparison to a study from the 1990s.

Setting

Primary, secondary, tertiary care: majority from South of England.

Participants

A retrospective analysis of 93 new referrals of sporadic (non-familial) Rb to a specialist Rb unit in London, UK from January 2006 to February 2014.

Primary and secondary outcomes

International Intraocular Retinoblastoma Classification, lag times including parental delay and healthcare professional delay, patients requiring enucleation and requirement of adjuvant chemotherapy postenucleation (high-risk Rb).

Results

During the study period, 29% presented via accident and emergency (A&E). The median referral time from symptom onset to visiting primary care (PC) was 28 days and PC to ophthalmologist 3 days (range 0–181 days). The median time from local ophthalmologist to the Rb Unit was 6 days (0–33). No significant correlation was found between delay and International Classification of Retinoblastoma grade (p>0.05) or between postenucleation adjuvant chemotherapy and enucleation groups (p>0.05). Less enucleations (60%) are being performed compared with the previous study (81%) (p=0.0015).

Conclusions

Parents are attending A&E more compared with the 1990s and this may reflect the effect of public awareness campaigns. More eyes are being salvaged despite a similar number of children requiring adjuvant chemotherapy. High-risk Rb and Group E eyes do not correlate with increased lag time in the UK. Other determinants such as tumour biology may be more relevant.
Let’s Talk about Children Evaluation (LTCE) study in northern Finland: a multiple group ecological study of children’s health promotion activities with a municipal and time-trend design
Authors: Kujala Veikko , Jokinen Jaana , Ebeling Hanna , Pohjola Anneli
Published: July 2017

Introduction

Making change towards child and family-based and coordinated services is critical to improve quality, outcomes and value. The Let’s Talk about Children (LTC) approach, which consists of brief psychoeducational discussions with parents of kindergarten-aged and school-aged children, has been launched as a municipality-specific programme in the Council of Oulu Region. The aim of this paper is to present a protocol of an ecological study evaluating the group-specific effects of an intervention about LTC activities in a geographically defined population. The programme is designed to promote children’s socioemotional well-being.

Methods and analysis

A quasi-experimental ecological study protocol is implemented to evaluate whether systematic LTC practices improve children’s well-being. A multi-informant setting covers 30 municipalities in northern Finland and involves all the municipal teachers, social and healthcare workers. In each municipality, a Local Management Team is responsible for implementing the LTC programme and collecting the annual data of LTC discussions and network meetings. The outcome data are retrieved from child welfare statistics and hospital registers. The population data, child welfare statistics and referrals to hospitals was retrieved at baseline (2014), and will be retrieved annually. Furthermore, the annual data of LTC discussions and network meetings will be collected of the years 2015–2018.

Ethics and dissemination

The study design has been approved by the management of the Oulu University Hospital in accordance with the guidelines given by The Regional Ethics Committee of the Northern Ostrobothnia Hospital District in Oulu, Finland. All data are treated and implemented according to national data security laws. Study findings will be disseminated to provincial and municipal partners, collaborative community groups and the research and development community. The Let’s Talk about Children Evaluation study databases will guide future regional development action and policies.
Examining the effectiveness of parental strategies to overcome bedwetting: an observational cohort study
Authors: Grzeda Mariusz T , Heron Jon , Tilling Kate , Wright Anne , Joinson Carol
Published: July 2017

Objective

To examine whether a range of common strategies used by parents to overcome bedwetting in 7½-year-old children (including lifting, restricting drinks before bedtime, regular daytime toilet trips, rewards, showing displeasure and using protection pants) are effective in reducing the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

General community.

Participants

The starting sample included 1258 children (66.7% boys and 33.2% girls) who were still bedwetting at 7½ years.

Outcome measure

Risk of bedwetting at 9½ years.

Results

Using propensity score-based methods, we found that two of the parental strategies used at 7½ years were associated with an increased risk of bedwetting at 9½ years, after adjusting the model for child and family variables and other parental strategies: lifting (risk difference=0.106 (95% CI 0.009 to 0.202), ie, there is a 10.6% (0.9% to 20.2%) increase in risk of bedwetting at 9½ years among children whose parents used lifting compared with children whose parents did not use this strategy) and restricting drinks before bedtime (0.123 (0.021 to 0.226)). The effect of using the other parental strategies was in either direction (an increase or decrease in the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years), for example, showing displeasure (−0.052 (−0.214 to 0.110)). When we re-analysed the data using multivariable regression analysis, the results were mostly consistent with the propensity score-based methods.

Conclusion

These findings provide evidence that common strategies used to overcome bedwetting in 7½-year-olds are not effective in reducing the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years. Parents should be encouraged to seek professional advice for their child’s bedwetting rather than persisting with strategies that may be ineffective.
Longitudinal qualitative study describing family physicians’ experiences with attempting to integrate physical activity prescriptions in their practice: ‘It’s not easy to change habits’
Authors: Bélanger Mathieu , Phillips Emily Wolfe , O’Rielly Connor , Mallet Bertin , Aubé Shane , Doucet Marylène , Couturier Jonathan , Mallet Maxime , Martin Jessica , Gaudet Christine , Murphy Nathalie , Brunet Jennifer
Published: July 2017

Objective

Physical activity (PA) prescriptions provided by family physicians can promote PA participation among patients, but few physicians regularly write PA prescriptions. The objective of this study was to describe family physicians’ experiences of trying to implement written PA prescriptions into their practice.

Design

Longitudinal qualitative study where participants were interviewed four times during a 12-month period. After the first interview, they were provided with PA prescription pads. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Setting

Family medicine clinics in New Brunswick, Canada.

Participants

Family physicians (n=11) with no prior experience writing PA prescriptions, but who expressed interest in changing their practice to implement written PA prescriptions.

Results

Initially, participants exhibited confidence in their ability to write PA prescriptions in the future and intended to write prescriptions. However, data from the follow-up interviews indicated that the rate of implementation was lower than anticipated by participants and prescriptions were not part of their regular practice. Two themes emerged as factors explaining the gap between their intentions and behaviours: (1) uncertainty about the effectiveness of written PA prescription, and (2) practical concerns (eg, changing well-established habits, time constraints, systemic institutional barriers).

Conclusion

It may be effective to increase awareness among family physicians about the effectiveness of writing PA prescriptions and address barriers related to how their practice is organised in order to promote written PA prescription rates.
A review and comparison of three neuronavigation systems for minimally invasive intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation
Authors: Chartrain Alexander G , Kellner Christopher P , Fargen Kyle M , Spiotta Alejandro M , Chesler David A , Fiorella David , Mocco J
Published: July 2017

Advances in stereotactic navigation technology have helped to improve the ease, reliability, and workflow of neurosurgical intraoperative navigation. These advances have also allowed novel, minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques to emerge. Minimally invasive techniques for intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) evacuation, including endoscopic evacuation and passive catheter drainage, are notable examples, and as these gain support in the literature and their use expands, stereotactic navigation will take on an increasingly important and central role. Each neurosurgical navigation system has unique characteristics. Operators may find that certain aspects are more important than others, depending on the environment in which the evacuation is performed and operator preferences. This review will describe the characteristics of three popular stereotactic neuronavigation systems and compare their advantages and disadvantages as they relate to minimally invasive ICH evacuation.
Risk factors for and outcomes of intraprocedural rupture during endovascular treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Kawabata Shuhei , Imamura Hirotoshi , Adachi Hidemitsu , Tani Shoichi , Tokunaga So , Funatsu Takayuki , Suzuki Keita , Sakai Nobuyuki
Published: July 2017

Background and purpose

The risk factors for intraprocedural rupture (IPR) of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) and the outcomes of IPR itself are unclear. This study was performed to identify the independent risk factors for and outcomes of IPR.

Materials and methods

We retrospectively evaluated the medical records and radiologic data of 1375 patients (1406 UIAs) who underwent coil embolization from January 2001 to October 2016.

Results

IPR occurred in 20 aneurysms of 20 patients (1.4%). Univariate analyses showed that the rate of IPR was significantly higher in the treatment of aneurysms with a small dome size, aneurysms in the anterior communicating artery (AcomA) (6.6%), and patients with a medical history of dyslipidemia. Multivariate analyses showed that a small dome size and aneurysms in the AcomA were independently associated with IPR (p=0.0096 and p=0.0001, respectively). IPR induced by a microcatheter was associated with a higher risk of severe subarachnoid hemorrhage than other causes of IPR (57% vs 0%, respectively). Thromboembolic complications occurred in seven (35%) patients with IPR. Six (30%) patients required external ventricular drainage placement after developing symptoms of acute hydrocephalus. The overall morbidity and mortality rates from IPR were 0.22% and 0.15%, respectively.

Conclusions

Aneurysms in the AcomA and with a small dome size are likely to be risk factors for IPR. IPR induced by microcatheters can result in poor outcomes. The rate of IPR-associated thromboembolic complications is high, and IPR itself is associated with acute hydrocephalus. If managed appropriately, however, most patients with IPR can survive without neurological deterioration.
Evaluation of dynamic passing gap acceptance on two-lane highways using field data
Authors: Hassein Udai , Diachuk Maksym , Easa Said
Published: July 2017

Gap availability is an important element of safe passing on two-lane highways. Time gaps are used to determine passing behaviour based on human factors. In this paper, the decision whether to accept or reject an available passing gap is modelled using logistic regression technique that included driver characteristics (age and experience) and the gap size. Field studies were conducted to collect experimental data regarding passing driver behaviour. The data were collected using dual camera Car DVRs and a GPS data logger device that records the instantaneous speed and position of the three vehicles involved in the passing maneuver: passing vehicle, impeding vehicle, and opposing vehicle. Regression models that include driver age and gender (required as input to the gap acceptance model) were established for initial passing time, starting gap, ending gap, and time to collision. The gap acceptance model was implemented in Simulink and the results revealed that driver characteristics significantly affect gap acceptance decisions.
Specific plasma oxylipins increase the odds of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Caligiuri Stephanie P.B. , Aukema Harold M. , Ravandi Amir , Lavallée Renée , Guzman Randy , Pierce Grant N.
Published: July 2017

Oxylipins and fatty acids may be novel therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease. The objective was to determine if plasma oxylipins or fatty acids can influence the odds of cardiovascular/cerebrovascular events. In 98 patients (25 female, 73 male) with peripheral artery disease, the prevalence of transient ischemic attacks, cerebrovascular accidents, stable angina, and acute coronary syndrome was n = 16, 10, 16, and 24, respectively. Risk factors such as being male, diagnosed hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia were not associated with events. Plasma fatty acids and oxylipins were analyzed with gas chromatography and HPLC-MS/MS, respectively. None of 24 fatty acids quantified were associated with events. In contrast, 39 plasma oxylipins were quantified, and 8 were significantly associated with events. These 8 oxylipins are known regulators of vascular tone. For example, every 1 unit increase in Thromboxane B2/Prostaglandin F1α and every 1 nmol/L increase in plasma 16-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, thromboxane B2, or 11,12-dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (DiHETrE) increased the odds of having had ≥2 events versus no event (p < 0.05). The greatest predictor was plasma 8,9-DiHETrE, which increased the odds of acute coronary syndrome by 92-fold. In conclusion, specific oxylipins were highly associated with clinical events and may represent specific biomarkers and (or) therapeutic targets of cardiovascular disease.
One-electron propagation in Fermi, Pasta, Ulam disordered chains with Gaussian acoustic pulse pumping
Authors: Silva L. D. da , dos Santos J. L. L. , Ranciaro Neto A. , Sales M. O. , de Moura F. A. B. F.
Published: July 2017

In this work, we consider a one-electron moving on a Fermi, Pasta, Ulam disordered chain under effect of electron–phonon interaction and a Gaussian acoustic pulse pumping. We describe electronic dynamics using quantum mechanics formalism and the nonlinear atomic vibrations using standard classical physics. Solving numerical equations related to coupled quantum/classical behavior of this system, we study electronic propagation properties. Our calculations suggest that the acoustic pumping associated with the electron–lattice interaction promote a sub-diffusive electronic dynamics.
Search for lepton flavor violation at future lepton colliders
Authors: Cho Gi-Chol , Shimo Hanako
Published: July 2017

Lepton flavor violating (LFV) processes, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text]), via four-Fermi contact interactions at future International Linear Collider (ILC) are studied. Taking account of previous experimental results of LFV processes [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], we find that the upper limits on the LFV parameters for [Formula: see text] could be improved at the ILC experiment using the polarized electron beam. The improvement of the upper limits could be nearly an order of magnitude as compared to previous ones.
Incompressible hydrodynamic approximation with viscous heating to the Boltzmann equation
Authors: Guo Yan , Liu Shuangqian
Published: July 2017

The incompressible Navier–Stokes–Fourier (INSF) system with viscous heating was first derived from the Boltzmann equation in the form of the diffusive scaling by Bardos–Levermore–Ukai–Yang [Kinetic equations: Fluid dynamical limits and viscous heating, Bull. Inst. Math. Acad. Sin.[Formula: see text] 3 (2008) 1–49]. The purpose of this paper is to justify such an incompressible hydrodynamic approximation to the Boltzmann equation in [Formula: see text] setting in a periodic box. Based on an odd–even expansion of the solution with respect to the microscopic velocity, the diffusive coefficients are determined by the INSF system with viscous heating and the super-Burnett functions. More importantly, the remainder of the expansion is proven to decay exponentially in time via an [Formula: see text] approach on the condition that the initial data satisfies the mass, momentum and energy conversation laws.
Surfactant-Free Synthesis of PdPt/rGO for the Alkaline Ethanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Peng Meiling , Wang Tao , Jiang Zhenzhen , Wang Sheng
Published: July 2017

In this work, a synthesis method of residue-free PdPt nanodendrites on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is reported. Using UV light as an energy trigger and methanol as the reducing agent, PdPt nanodendrites are synthesized with clean, residue-free surfaces (e.g., surfactant and polymer). In comparison with commercial Pd/C and Pt/C catalysts, the as-prepared PdPt nanodendrites on rGO have a large electrochemically active surface area, enhanced catalytic activity, high stability, and tolerance toward the ethanol oxidation reaction in alkaline media. Among the nanodendrite composites prepared, those containing a Pd:Pt ratio of 1:2 on rGO exhibit the best stability and durability, and their mass activity is 2.0 and 2.4 times greater than those of commercial Pt/C and Pd/C catalysts, respectively. This strategy presents an environmentally friendly way to fabricate other noble metal catalysts with improved catalytic activity and stability for use in direct alcohol fuel cells.
Late Palaeozoic and Mesozoic evolution of the Amu Darya Basin (Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan)
Authors: Brunet Marie-Françoise , Ershov Andrey V. , Korotaev Maxim V. , Melikhov Vladislav N. , Barrier Eric , Mordvintsev Dmitriy O. , Sidorova Irina P.
Published: July 2017

The Amu Darya Basin (ADB) has been studied primarily for its important hydrocarbon reserves and to a lesser extent for its geodynamic evolution. The ADB is located on the SE portion of the Turan Platform, between the sutures of the Turkestan and Palaeo-Tethys oceans, which closed during the Late Palaeozoic and Early Mesozoic, respectively. Blocks and island arcs accreted to Eurasia during the Palaeozoic form a poorly defined, heterogeneous basement underlying the ADB. They played an important role in shaping its composite structure into variously orientated sub-basins and highs. In this paper, depth–structure and isopach maps, and regional cross-sections, are analysed to unravel the location and origin of the main structural elements and to characterize the subsidence evolution of the ADB. The main tectonic events leading to the formation and evolution of the ADB took place: (1) in the Late Palaeozoic–Early Triassic (back-arc, rollback and extension/strike-slip); (2) from the Middle Triassic to the Triassic–Jurassic boundary (Eo-Cimmerian collision of Gondwana-derived continental blocks with Eurasia); and (3) during the Early–Middle Jurassic (post-collision extensional event). The last part of this evolution reflects shortening and flexure due to Cenozoic collisions to the south. Palaeotectonic maps are used to relate these events to the geodynamics of the Tethyan domain.
Treatment of Knee Osteochondral Lesions Using a Novel Clot of Autologous Plasma Rich in Growth Factors Mixed with Healthy Hyaline Cartilage Chips and Intra-Articular Injection of PRGF
Authors: Cugat Ramón , Alentorn-Geli Eduard , Steinbacher Gilbert , Álvarez-Díaz Pedro , Cuscó Xavier , Seijas Roberto , Barastegui David , Navarro Jordi , Laiz Patricia , García-Balletbó Montserrat
Published: July 2017

Knee cartilage or osteochondral lesions are common and challenging injuries. To date, most symptomatic lesions warrant surgical treatment. We present two cases of patients with knee osteochondral defects treated with a one-step surgical procedure consisting of an autologous-based matrix composed of healthy hyaline cartilage chips, mixed plasma poor-rich in platelets clot, and plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF). Both patients returned to playing soccer at the preinjury activity level and demonstrated excellent defect filling in both magnetic resonance imaging and second-look arthroscopy (in one of them). The use of a clot of autologous plasma poor in platelets with healthy hyaline cartilage chips and intra-articular injection of plasma rich in platelets is an effective, easy, and cheap option to treat knee cartilage injuries in young and athletic patients.
Prevalence of Subclinical Mastitis and Distribution of Pathogens in Dairy Farms of Rubavu and Nyabihu Districts, Rwanda
Authors: Mpatswenumugabo J. P. , Bebora L. C. , Gitao G. C. , Mobegi V. A. , Iraguha B. , Kamana O. , Shumbusho B.
Published: July 2017

A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2016 to January 2017 in Rubavu and Nyabihu districts, Western Rwanda, aiming at estimating the prevalence of subclinical mastitis (SCM) and identifying its causative bacteria. Management practices and milking procedures were recorded through a questionnaire. 123 crossbreed milking cows from 13 dairy farms were randomly selected and screened for SCM using California Mastitis Test (CMT). Composite CMT positive milk samples were processed for bacterial isolation and identification. The overall SCM prevalence at cow level was 50.4%. 68 bacterial isolates were identified by morphological and biochemical characteristics. They included, Coagulase Negative Staphylococci (51.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (20.6%), Streptococcus species (10.3%), Bacillus species (10.3%), Streptococcus agalactiae (5.8%), and Escherichia coli (1.5%). About 67.1% of the farmers checked for mastitis; of these, 58.9% relied on clinical signs and only 6.8% screened with CMT. Only 5.5% and 2.7% of the farmers tried to control mastitis using dry cow therapy and teat dips, respectively. Thus, to reduce the prevalence of SCM, farmers in the study area need to be trained on good milking practices, including regular use of teat dips, application of dry cow therapy, and SCM screening. This will improve their sales and their financial status.
The Improved Generalized tanh-coth Method Applied to Sixth-Order Solitary Wave Equation
Authors: Torvattanabun M. , Simmapim J. , Saennuad D. , Somaumchan T.
Published: July 2017

The improved generalized tanh-coth method is used in nonlinear sixth-order solitary wave equation. This method is a powerful and advantageous mathematical tool for establishing abundant new traveling wave solutions of nonlinear partial differential equations. The new exact solutions consisted of trigonometric functions solutions, hyperbolic functions solutions, exponential functions solutions, and rational functions solutions. The numerical results were obtained with the aid of Maple.