bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reflux monitoring in children
Authors: Singendonk M. M. J. , Benninga M. A. , van Wijk M. P.
Published: September 2016

Recently, multichannel intraluminal impedance (MII) monitoring was added to the repertoire of tests to evaluate the (patho)physiology of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children. Its advantage above the sole monitoring of the esophageal pH lies in the ability of the detection of both acid and nonacidGERand to discern between liquid and gasGER. Currently, combined 24 h pH‐MIImonitoring is recommended for evaluation of gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD) and its relation to symptoms in infants and children, despite the lack of reference values in these age groups. There is new evidence in the current issue of this Journal supporting the role of pH‐MIImonitoring for the evaluation of children presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms suggestive ofGERDand the prediction of the presence of reflux esophagitis. However, several issues should be taken into account when performing pH‐MIIclinically.
The association between Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome—hypermobility type and gastrointestinal symptoms in university students: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Fikree A. , Aktar R. , Morris J. K. , Grahame R. , Knowles C. H. , Aziz Q.
Published: September 2016

Background

Patients with Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome—hypermobility type (EDS‐HT) have increased prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, particularly reflux and dyspepsia.EDS‐HTis associated with dysautonomia, psychopathology, and chronic pain which can be associated withGIsymptoms. The association betweenGIsymptoms andEDS‐HTin a ‘non‐patient’ population and the effect of the above‐mentioned factors has never been studied.

Methods

In a cross sectional study, a hypermobility questionnaire was used to screen university students; further clinical examination established the diagnosis ofEDS‐HT. Validated questionnaires assessed forGI, somatic, pain and autonomic symptoms, psychopathology and quality of life (QOL). These were compared in students with and withoutEDS‐HT; logistic regression analysis examined associations betweenEDS‐HT,GIsymptoms and other variables.

Key Results

Of 1998 students screened, 162 were included: 74EDS‐HT(21.0 years, 53% female) vs 88 Non‐EDS‐HT(21.5 years, 65% female). Compared to non‐EDS‐HTstudents,EDS‐HTstudents were more likely to have multipleGIsymptoms (41.9% vs 27.3%P=.05), particularly postprandial fullness (34.4% vs 15.9%,P=.01) and early satiety (32% vs 17%,P=.03), greater autonomic (P<.001) and somatic symptoms (P=.04) but not psychopathology (P>.8). The association betweenEDS‐HTand postprandial symptoms was dependent on autonomic factors but independent of pain and psychopathology. Pain‐relatedQOLscores were reduced in theEDS‐HTgroup (80 vs 90,P=.03).

Conclusions and Inferences

The previously described association betweenEDS‐HT, dyspepsia, pain and autonomic symptoms in patients is also present in non‐patient groups. Future studies are necessary to explore the etiological role of connective tissue inGIand extra intestinal symptoms.
Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction in children and adults: diagnosis and therapeutic options
Authors: Di Nardo G. , Di Lorenzo C. , Lauro A. , Stanghellini V. , Thapar N. , Karunaratne T. B. , Volta U. , De Giorgio R.
Published: September 2016

Background

Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction (CIPO) represents the most severe form of gastrointestinal dysmotility with debilitating and potentially lethal consequences. Symptoms can be non‐specific, and result in this condition being diagnosed incorrectly or too late with consequences for morbidity and even mortality.

Purpose

The present article aims to provide pediatric and adult gastroenterologists with an up to date review about clinical features, diagnosis and therapeutic options for CIPO. Although pediatric and adult CIPO share many clinical aspects distinctive features can be identified. There is no single diagnostic test or pathognomonic finding of CIPO, thus a stepwise approach including radiology, endoscopy, laboratory, manometry, and histopathology should be considered in the diagnostic work‐up. Treatment of patients with CIPO is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary effort with participation of appropriately experienced gastroenterologists, pathologists, dieticians, surgeons, psychologists, and other subspecialists based on the presence of comorbidities. Current treatment options invariably involve surgery and specialized nutritional support, especially in children. Medical therapies are mainly aimed to avoid complications such as sepsis or intestinal bacterial overgrowth and, where possible, restore intestinal propulsion. More efficacious therapeutic options are eagerly awaited for such difficult patients.
Recognizing young children with high potential: U‐STARS∼PLUS
Authors: Coleman Mary Ruth
Published: September 2016

Hands‐on science is the ideal platform for observing young children's ability to solve problems, think deeply, and use their creative ingenuity to explore the world around them. Science is naturally interesting and offers authentic reasons to read for information and use math skills to collect, compile, and analyze data. This chapter will share one approach to nurturing and recognizing young children with high‐potential: U‐STARS∼PLUS (Using Science, Talents, and Abilities to Recognize Students∼Promoting Learning for Underrepresented Students). Each of the five components (high‐end learning environments; teacher's observations of potential; engaging science activities; partnerships with parents; and capacity building for system change) will be explained. Concrete examples will be given for each area showing how it works and why it is important. Special attention will be paid to the needs of educationally vulnerable gifted children who remain underserved: racially, ethnically, and linguistically different; economically disadvantaged, and children who are twice exceptional (2e).
Prenatal diagnosis of Gaucher disease using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Yoshida Shinichiro , Kido Jun , Matsumoto Shirou , Momosaki Ken , Mitsubuchi Hiroshi , Shimazu Tomoyuki , Sugawara Keishin , Endo Fumio , Nakamura Kimitoshi
Published: September 2016

In the prenatal diagnosis of Gaucher disease (GD), glucocerebrosidase (GBA) activity is measured with fetal cells, and gene analysis is performed when pathogenic mutations in GBA are identified in advance. Herein is described prenatal diagnosis in a family in which two children had GD. Although prior genetic information for this GD family was not obtained, next‐generation sequencing (NGS) was carried out for this family because immediate prenatal diagnosis was necessary. Three mutations were identified in this GD family. The father had one mutation in intron 3 (IVS2 + 1), the mother had two mutations in exons 3 (I[‐20]V) and 5 (M85T), and child 1 had all three of these mutations; child 3 had none of these mutations. On NGS the present fetus (child 3) was not a carrier of GD‐related mutations. NGS may facilitate early detection and treatment before disease onset.
Trade Liberalisation and the Wage Skill Premium in Korean Manufacturing Plants: Do Plants’ R&D and Investment Matter?
Authors: Hahn Chin Hee , Choi Yong‐Seok
Published: September 2016

This paper examines the effects of output and input tariff reductions on within‐plant wage skill premium in Korean manufacturing plants. We find evidence that output tariff reduction interacts differently with plants’ R&D and investment behaviours, respectively, to affect wage skill premium. More specifically, output tariff reduction increases wage skill premium mostly in R&D‐performing plants while reducing it mostly in plants making positive facility investments. While there is weak evidence that input tariff reduction increases wage skill premium, no such interactive effects are found. One story behind our results is that, although both R&D and facility investments may respond to changes in profit opportunities due to output tariff reductions, R&D raises the relative demand for the skilled workers while facility investment, an activity of increasing production capacity, raises the relative demand for the unskilled workers.
Efficacy of Teaching the Gambee Suture Pattern Using Simulated Small Intestine versus Cadaveric Small Intestine
Authors: Caston Stephanie S. , Schleining Jennifer A. , Danielson Jared A. , Kersh Kevin D. , Reinertson Eric L.
Published: September 2016

Objective

To determine if instruction using simulated small intestine (SSI) is as effective as using cadaveric small intestine to teach the Gambee suture pattern to second year veterinary students.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized, blinded study.

Sample Population

Second year veterinary students (n=59).

Methods

Students were randomly assigned to groups using SSI or equine cadaver small intestine (CSI) to learn the Gambee suture pattern. The same educator, an experienced surgical instructor, instructed all students. Instruction consisted of verbal description of the technique with a schematic diagram followed by a demonstration. Students then practiced the technique with supervision and verbal feedback. One week later, 3 board certified surgeons experienced in surgical instruction evaluated each student suturing equine CSI and scored them using a rubric developed and validated for surgical skills assessment.

Results

Fifty‐nine students were enrolled (4 students were absent for the lab during which the assessment was performed; 55 students were available for evaluation). Of the 55 students evaluated, 26 were in the SSI group and 29 were in the CSI group. There was no significant difference between CSI and SSI groups in ability to perform the Gambee suture pattern using equine CSI 1 week following training.

Conclusion

SSI is as effective as equine cadaveric small intestine tissue to teach the Gambee suture pattern to second year veterinary students. If cadaver tissue is unavailable or undesirable, SSI could be used to instruct suture placement techniques.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Size, Knot Holding Capacity, and Knot Security of the Forwarder Knot Compared to Square and Surgeon's Knots Using Large Gauge Suture
Authors: Gillen Alex M. , Munsterman Amelia S. , Hanson R. Reid
Published: September 2016

Objective

To investigate the strength, size, and holding capacity of the self‐locking forwarder knot compared to surgeon's and square knots using large gauge suture.

Study design

In vitro mechanical study.

Study Population

Knotted suture.

Methods

Forwarder, surgeon's, and square knots were tested on a universal testing machine under linear tension using 2 and 3 USP polyglactin 910 and 2 USP polydioxanone. Knot holding capacity (KHC) and mode of failure were recorded and relative knot security (RKS) was calculated as a percentage of KHC. Knot volume and weight were assessed by digital micrometer and balance, respectively. ANOVA and post hoc testing were used tocompare strength between number of throws, suture, suture size, and knot type. P<.05 was considered significant.

Results

Forwarder knots had a higher KHC and RKS than surgeon's or square knots for all suture types and number of throws. No forwarder knots unraveled, but a proportion of square and surgeon's knots with <6 throws did unravel. Forwarder knots had a smaller volume and weight than surgeon's and square knots with equal number of throws. The forwarder knot of 4 throws using 3 USP polyglactin 910 had the highest KHC, RKS, and the smallest size and weight.

Conclusion

Forwarder knots may be an alternative for commencing continuous patterns in large gauge suture, without sacrificing knot integrity, but further in vivo and ex vivo testing is required to assess the effects of this sliding knot on tissue perfusion before clinical application.
Laparoscopic Evaluation of Umbilical Disorders in Calves
Authors: Robert Mickaël , Touzot‐Jourde Gwenola , Nikolayenkova‐Topie Olga , Cesbron Nora , Fellah Borhane , Tessier Caroline , Gauthier Olivier
Published: September 2016

Objective

To describe a laparoscopic technique for evaluating umbilical disorders in calves, including feasibility, visualization of umbilical structures, and related complications.

Study Design

Prospective clinical study.

Animals

Male calves (15 Holstein, 2 Montbeliard) with umbilical disorders (n=17).

Methods

Calves <2 months old with obvious umbilical disease were assessed by clinical examination and ultrasonography of the umbilical structures. Laparoscopic evaluation was performed in dorsal recumbency under subarachnoid lumbosacral anesthesia and sedation. An open insertion technique with short 60 mm cannulas was used after creating 2 portals 10 cm cranial to the umbilicus (one 5 cm left of midline for the laparoscope and one 5 cm right of midline as an instrument portal). After laparoscopy, abnormal tissues were resected by laparotomy during the same anesthetic period.

Results

Laparoscopic evaluation of umbilical structures was performed quickly (mean surgery time 7.1 ± 2.5 minutes). Umbilical structures could be completely visualized in all calves without intraoperative complications. In addition to abnormalities previously detected on ultrasound, laparoscopy enabled detection of adhesions 7 calves that were not suspected on ultrasound, as well as focal enlargements of the umbilical arteries and urachus close to the bladder in 5 calves. Laparoscopy failed to detect abnormalities observed with ultrasound or laparotomy in 4 calves, including small hernias and omphalitis.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic evaluation of umbilical structures was performed safely and quickly in young calves and allowed complete evaluation of intra‐abdominal umbilical structures and may, therefore, be a useful adjunct to physical examination and ultrasound to fully assess the abdomen in calves.
Conservative Management of Unilateral Fractures of the Mandibular Rami in Horses
Authors: Jansson Nicolai
Published: September 2016

Objective

To report the outcome of conservative management of unilateral fractures of the mandibular rami in horses.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

24 client‐owned horses with unilateral mandibular fractures

Methods

Medical records (January 2000–January 2014) of horses with unilateral mandibular ramus fractures were retrieved. Only conservatively managed horses with follow‐up information were included. Follow‐up information on clinical outcome was retrieved from the medical records (n=11) or obtained by telephone interviews with the owners or trainers (n=13).

Results

Twenty‐three horses (96%) returned to their previous or intended use and had no clinically evident masticatory or fracture healing‐related problems at the time of follow‐up. The owner of 1 horse (4%) reported it had tooth loosening, feed impaction, and masticatory problems.

Conclusion

Conservative management of unilateral fractures of the mandibular rami is a treatment option in horses.
Pathogenicity, host range and activities of a secondary metabolite and enzyme from Myrothecium roridum on water hyacinth from Thailand
Authors: Piyaboon Orawan , Pawongrat Ratchapol , Unartngam Jintana , Chinawong Sombat , Unartngam Arm
Published: September 2016

Leaf blight disease of water hyacinth was observed and collected from different geographical areas of Thailand. The disease is caused by a fungal pathogen that was identified as Myrothecium roridum by using its morphological characteristics. The most effective fungal strains were evaluated for pathogenicity on water hyacinth under greenhouse and natural conditions. Myrothecium roridum isolate, Kamphaeng Sean Campus (KKFC) 448, was found to be the most virulent. Different fungal formulations were evaluated for their level of control of water hyacinth. The results showed that spore suspensions with 10% palm oil or 1% Tween 20 caused a higher level of disease severity, compared to spores applied in water alone. The host range of KKFC 448 was evaluated by using 77 plant species that belong to 40 plant families. The fungus did not cause disease on 74 economically important plants but did produce disease signs on water hyacinth and two other aquatic weeds, duckweed and water lettuce. Leaf blight occurs on water hyacinth leaves after being treated with crude extracts of M. roridum and it was indicated that secondary metabolites were released from the fungal mycelia. Myrothecium roridum that was grown on boiled paddy rice produced β‐1,4‐exoglucanase, β‐1,4‐endoglucanase, β‐glucosidase, xylanase and pectinase more than Mroridum that was grown on potato dextrose agar. The results indicated that M. roridum is a pathogen of water hyacinth and the fungus is capable of producing different enzymatic activities on potato dextrose agar and boiled paddy rice, which might be important for infection.
Oral administration of antioxidants improves skin wound healing in diabetic mice
Authors: Pessoa Ana Flávia Marçal , Florim Juliana Costa , Rodrigues Hosana Gomes , Andrade‐Oliveira Vinicius , Teixeira Simone A. , Vitzel Kaio Fernando , Curi Rui , Saraiva Câmara Niels Olsen , Muscará Marcelo N. , Lamers Marcelo Lazzaron , Santos Marinilce Fagundes
Published: September 2016

Oxidative stress aggravates several long‐term complications in diabetes mellitus. We evaluated the effectiveness of the oral administration of antioxidants (vitamins E and C, 40 and 100 mg/kg b.w., respectively) on skin wound healing acceleration in alloxan‐induced diabetic mice. Mice were wounded 30 days after the induction of diabetes. Antioxidants were effective in preventing oxidative stress, as assessed by TBARS. The enzymes catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase were increased in diabetics on the 3rd day post‐wounding; catalase and glutathione peroxidase remained still augmented in diabetics after 14th day postwounding, and the treatment with vitamins restored their activities to control. After 3 days, diabetic mice showed lower infiltration of inflammatory cells (including CD11b+ and Ly6G+ cells) and reduced levels of KC, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐12 p40 when compared with control mice. The treatment restored cytokine levels. After 14 days, diabetic mice showed late wound closure, persistent inflammation and delayed reepithelialization, accompanied by an increase in MIG+/CD206− macrophages whereas CD206+/MIG− macrophages were decreased. Cytokines IL‐12p40, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and KC were increased and normal levels were restored after treatment with antioxidants. These results suggest that oxidative stress plays a major role in diabetic wound healing impairment and the oral administration of antioxidants improves healing by modulating inflammation and the antioxidant system with no effect on glycemia.
The Path-Independent M Integral Implies the Creep Closure of Englacial and Subglacial Channels
Authors: Meyer Colin R. , Hutchinson John W. , Rice James R.
Published: September 2016

Drainage channels are essential components of englacial and subglacial hydrologic systems. Here, we use the M integral, a path-independent integral of the equations of continuum mechanics for a class of media, to unify descriptions of creep closure under a variety of stress states surrounding drainage channels. The advantage of this approach is that the M integral around the hydrologic channels is identical to same integral evaluated in the far field. In this way, the creep closure on the channel wall can be determined as a function of the far-field loading, e.g., involving antiplane shear as well as overburden pressure. We start by analyzing the axisymmetric case and show that the Nye solution for the creep closure of the channels is implied by the path independence of the M integral. We then examine the effects of superimposing antiplane shear. We show that the creep closure of the channels acts as a perturbation in the far field, which we explore analytically and numerically. In this way, the creep closure of channels can be succinctly written in terms of the path-independent M integral, and understanding the variation with applied shear is useful for glacial hydrology models.
Generalized Radial Basis Function-Based High-Dimensional Model Representation Handling Existing Random Data
Authors: Liu Haitao , Wang Xiaofang , Xu Shengli
Published: September 2016

The radial basis function-based high-dimensional model representation (RBF–HDMR) is very promising as a metamodel for high dimensional costly simulation-based functions. But in the modeling procedure, it requires well-structured regular points sampled on cut lines and planes. In practice, we usually have some existing random points that do not lie on cut lines or planes. For this case, RBF–HDMR cannot utilize the information of these random points because of its inner regular sampling process. To utilize the existing random points, this article presents two strategies to build a generalized RBF–HDMR (GRBF–HDMR) model. The GRBF–HDMR model using the error model (EM) strategy, called GRBF–HDMREM, constructs an error RBF model based on the prediction errors at all the sampled points to improve the RBF–HDMR predictions. While the GRBF–HDMR model using the error allocation (EA) strategy, called GRBF–HDMREA, employs the virtual regular points projected from the random points and the estimated virtual responses to update the component RBF predictions, which thereafter improves the overall RBF–HDMR predictions. Numerical experiments on eight functions and an engineering example reveal that the error allocation strategy is more effective in utilizing the random data to improve the RBF–HDMR predictions, since it creates the virtual points that follow the sampling rule in RBF–HDMR and estimates the virtual responses accurately for most cases.
Thumb Configuration and Performance Evaluation for Dexterous Robotic Hand Design
Authors: Wang Hairong , Fan Shaowei , Liu Hong
Published: September 2016

The force and/or motion transmissibility and the analyticity of inverse kinematics for a thumb mechanism depend on thumb configuration. This paper presents a general framework for the thumb configuration and performance evaluation in the design of dexterous robotic hand. The thumb configuration is described by the functional analysis of human thumb, and the thumb of robotic hand is generalized into 15 configurations. A performance evaluation method is proposed based on kinetostatic and dynamic dexterity as well as workspace. The kinetostatic dexterity is based on a Jacobian matrix condition number (JMCN). A dynamic dexterity measure is presented via acceleration analysis, which keeps a clear geometric meaning. The proposed method is applied to evaluate the performance of three examples, which cover thumb configurations of most existing dexterous hands. Performance evaluation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Using these results and the proposed performance evaluation method, meaningful design principles are presented to guide the design of the thumb configuration.
Influence of hydrogen passivation on the luminescence of Si quantum dots embedded in Si3Nx
Authors: Cadogan Carolyn C. , Goncharova Lyudmila V. , Simpson Peter J. , Nguyen Peter H. , Wang Zhiqang Q. , Sham Tsun-Kong
Published: September 2016

Silicon quantum dots (Si-QDs) of various diameters were formed by annealing of Si-rich silicon nitride (Si3Nx) films synthesized using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. To investigate the effect of annealing temperature on the luminescence of this system, samples were annealed at temperatures from 400 to 1000 °C. Photoluminescence (PL), x-ray absorption near edge spectroscopy, elastic recoil detection, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy measurements were used for characterization. The authors found that luminescence originated from both quantum confinement effects (QCE) and defects, and that hydrogen passivation affects the PL intensity. For lower annealing temperatures, radiative recombination due to the QCE of the Si-QDs films was observed. For higher annealing temperatures (above 600 °C), desorption of hydrogen from the sample caused the PL intensity to decrease significantly. Si3Nx films with a lower Si content were less sensitive to this reduction in PL intensity after annealing at high temperatures (above 600 °C). Our results emphasize the importance of hydrogenation of the silicon nitride matrix if Si QDs are to be used in optoelectronic devices.
The relationship between basic audio quality and overall listening experience
Authors: Schoeffler Michael , Herre Jürgen
Published: September 2016

Basic audio quality (BAQ) is a well-known perceptual attribute, which is rated in various listening test methods to measure the performance of audio systems. Unfortunately, when it comes to purchasing audio systems, BAQ might not have a significant influence on the customers' buying decisions since other factors, like brand loyalty, might be more important. In contrast to BAQ, overall listening experience (OLE) is an affective attribute which incorporates all aspects that are important to an individual assessor, including his or her preference for music genre and audio quality. In this work, the relationship between BAQ and OLE is investigated in more detail. To this end, an experiment was carried out, in which participants rated the BAQ and the OLE of music excerpts with different timbral and spatial degradations. In a between-group-design procedure, participants were assigned into two groups, in each of which a different set of stimuli was rated. The results indicate that rating of both attributes, BAQ and OLE, leads to similar rankings, even if a different set of stimuli is rated. In contrast to the BAQ ratings, which were more influenced by timbral than spatial degradations, the OLE ratings were almost equally influenced by timbral and spatial degradations.
Analysis and control of multi-zone sound field reproduction using modal-domain approach
Authors: Zhang Wen , Abhayapala Thushara D. , Betlehem Terence , Fazi Filippo Maria
Published: September 2016

Multi-zone sound control aims to reproduce multiple sound fields independently and simultaneously over different spatial regions within the same space. This paper investigates the multi-zone sound control problem formulated in the modal domain using the Lagrange cost function and provides a modal-domain analysis of the problem. The Lagrange cost function is formulated to represent a quadratic objective of reproducing a desired sound field within the bright zone and with constraints on sound energy in the dark zone and global region. A fundamental problem in multi-zone reproduction is interzone sound interference, where based on the geometry of the sound zones and the desired sound field within the bright zone the achievable reproduction performance is limited. The modal-domain Lagrangian solution demonstrates the intrinsic ill-posedness of the problem, based on which a parameter, the coefficient of realisability, is developed to evaluate the reproduction limitation. The proposed reproduction method is based on controlling the interference between sound zones and sound leakage outside the sound zones, resulting in a suitable compromise between good bright zone performance and satisfactory dark zone performance. The performance of the proposed design is demonstrated through numerical simulations of two-zone reproduction in free-field and in reverberant environments.
Reconstructing the normal velocities of acoustic sources in noisy environments using a rigid microphone array
Authors: Xiang Shang , Jiang Weikang , Jiang Hao , Gao Jianzheng
Published: September 2016

An acoustic source identification technique with single layer pressure measurement is presented to reconstruct normal velocities of target sources in noisy environments. The theory for this reconstruction is developed from the inverse patch transfer functions method which is supposed to combine measurements of pressure and velocity on a surface surrounding the source. The rigid microphone array is called an acoustic mask, which is designed to obtain pressure on the Neumann boundary condition and realized by microphones flush mounted on the aluminum plate. The validity of the proposed method is demonstrated by giving the normal velocities of two baffled loudspeakers in a noisy environment in the simulation and experiment. Another experiment of a clamped steel plate is further presented to illustrate the ability of the acoustic mask to obtain the partial velocity field of interest without reconstruction of the whole source surface velocity. The accuracy of this technique is demonstrated by comparison with the accelerometer method.
Effects of Functional Training and Calf Stretching on Risk of Falls in Older People: A Pilot Study
Authors: do Rosario Jailton Thulher , da Fonseca Martins Natalia Santos , Peixinho Carolina Carneiro , Oliveira Liliam Fernandes
Published: September 2016

This study aimed to determine the effects of a functional training and ankle stretching program in triceps surae torque, passive stiffness index, and in the risk for fall indicators in older adults. Twenty women (73.4 ± 7.3 years) were allocated into an intervention or control group. The 12-week intervention consisted of functional training and calf stretching exercises performed twice a week. Measurements of peak passive and active torque, passive stiffness, maximum dorsiflexion angle, and indexes of risk for falls (Timed Up and Go, functional reach test, QuickScreen-test) were collected. There were no significant differences for all variables, except the maximum dorsiflexion angle, which increased in the intervention group from 33.78 ± 8.57° to 38.89 ± 7.52°. The exercise program was not sufficient to enhance performance on functional tests and decrease the risk for falls in older adults. The significant increase in the maximum dorsiflexion indicates a positive impact of stretching exercises.
The Role of Adherence in the Effects of a Mindfulness Intervention for Competitive Athletes: Changes in Mindfulness, Flow, Pessimism, and Anxiety
Authors: Scott-Hamilton John , Schutte Nicola S.
Published: September 2016

This study examined the role of degree of adherence in a mindfulness-based intervention on mindfulness, flow, sport anxiety, and sport-related pessimistic attributions in athletes. Twelve athletes participated in an 8-week mindfulness intervention which incorporated a mindfulness focus on movement training component. Participants completed baseline and posttest measures of mindfulness, flow, sport anxiety, and sport-related pessimistic attributions, and they filled out daily mindfulness-training logbooks documenting their frequency and duration of mindfulness practice. Participants were identified as either high adherence or low adherence with mindfulness-training based on a composite score of logbook practice records and workshop attendance. Athletes high in adherence, operationalized as following recommended practice of mindfulness exercises, showed significantly greater increases in mindfulness and aspects of flow, and significantly greater decreases in pessimism and anxiety than low adherence athletes. Greater increases in mindfulness from baseline to posttest were associated with greater increases in flow and greater decreases in pessimism. Increases in flow were associated with decreases in somatic anxiety and pessimism.
Benefits, Pressures, and Challenges of Leadership and Captaincy in the National Hockey League
Authors: Camiré Martin
Published: September 2016

Leadership is often formalized within sport through captaincy, but researchers have yet to examine the realities of captaincy at the highest level of professional competition. The current study examined the benefits, pressures, and challenges of leadership and captaincy in the National Hockey League (NHL). One captain of an NHL team participated in two in-depth interviews, providing thorough descriptions of his first-hand experiences as an NHL captain, including (a) the techniques he uses to manage his media obligations, (b) his role as a communication bridge between players and coaches, (c) the composition of his leadership group, and (d) examples of interactions that occur during player-only meetings. The transition to captaincy was considered an especially challenging and pressure-filled period. Practical implications for sport psychology consultants are discussed in terms of how they can assist captains of elite competitive teams in setting realistic expectations for their leadership role.
The local spiral structure of the Milky Way
Authors: Xu Ye , Reid Mark , Dame Thomas , Menten Karl , Sakai Nobuyuki , Li Jingjing , Brunthaler Andreas , Moscadelli Luca , Zhang Bo , Zheng Xingwu
Published: September 2016

Researchers have only recently begun to trace the spiral structure of our Galaxy, the Milky Way, and already find surprising results.
An Anthropocene map of genetic diversity
Authors: Miraldo Andreia , Li Sen , Borregaard Michael K. , Flórez-Rodríguez Alexander , Gopalakrishnan Shyam , Rizvanovic Mirnesa , Wang Zhiheng , Rahbek Carsten , Marske Katharine A. , Nogués-Bravo David
Published: September 2016

The Anthropocene is witnessing a loss of biodiversity, with well-documented declines in the diversity of ecosystems and species. For intraspecific genetic diversity, however, we lack even basic knowledge on its global distribution. We georeferenced 92,801 mitochondrial sequences for >4500 species of terrestrial mammals and amphibians, and found that genetic diversity is 27% higher in the tropics than in nontropical regions. Overall, habitats that are more affected by humans hold less genetic diversity than wilder regions, although results for mammals are sensitive to choice of genetic locus. Our study associates geographic coordinates with publicly available genetic sequences at a massive scale, yielding an opportunity to investigate both the drivers of this component of biodiversity and the genetic consequences of the anthropogenic modification of nature.
High-resolution lithosphere viscosity and dynamics revealed by magnetotelluric imaging
Authors: Liu Lijun , Hasterok Derrick
Published: September 2016

An accurate viscosity structure is critical to truthfully modeling lithosphere dynamics. Here, we report an attempt to infer the effective lithospheric viscosity from a high-resolution magnetotelluric (MT) survey across the western United States. The high sensitivity of MT fields to the presence of electrically conductive fluids makes it a promising proxy for determining mechanical strength variations throughout the lithosphere. We demonstrate how a viscosity structure, approximated from electrical resistivity, results in a geodynamic model that successfully predicts short-wavelength surface topography, lithospheric deformation, and mantle upwelling beneath recent volcanism. We further show that this viscosity is physically consistent with and better constrained than that derived from laboratory-based rheology. We conclude that MT imaging provides a practical observational constraint for quantifying the dynamic evolution of the continental lithosphere.
Growing pains for global monitoring of societal events
Authors: Wang Wei , Kennedy Ryan , Lazer David , Ramakrishnan Naren
Published: September 2016

Automated event coding raises promise and concerns
Cyclin A2 is an RNA binding protein that controls
Mre11
mRNA translation
Authors: Kanakkanthara Arun , Jeganathan Karthik B. , Limzerwala Jazeel F. , Baker Darren J. , Hamada Masakazu , Nam Hyun-Ja , van Deursen Willemijn H. , Hamada Naomi , Naylor Ryan M. , Becker Nicole A. , Davies Brian A. , van Ree Janine H. , Mer Georges , Shapiro Virginia S. , Maher L. James , Katzmann David J. , van Deursen Jan M.
Published: September 2016

Cyclin A2 activates the cyclin-dependent kinases Cdk1 and Cdk2 and is expressed at elevated levels from S phase until early mitosis. We found that mutant mice that cannot elevate cyclin A2 are chromosomally unstable and tumor-prone. Underlying the chromosomal instability is a failure to up-regulate the meiotic recombination 11 (Mre11) nuclease in S phase, which leads to impaired resolution of stalled replication forks, insufficient repair of double-stranded DNA breaks, and improper segregation of sister chromosomes. Unexpectedly, cyclin A2 controlled Mre11 abundance through a C-terminal RNA binding domain that selectively and directly binds
Mre11
transcripts to mediate polysome loading and translation. These data reveal cyclin A2 as a mechanistically diverse regulator of DNA replication combining multifaceted kinase-dependent functions with a kinase-independent, RNA binding–dependent role that ensures adequate repair of common replication errors.
Detecting structure in a protostellar disk
Authors: Rice Ken
Published: September 2016

Spiral structure may provide clues about the early stages of star and planet formation
Social memory goes viral
Authors: Saxena Kapil , Morris Richard G. M.
Published: September 2016

A precisely mapped brain network discriminates and remembers friends and strangers
Evaluation of Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization−Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Identification of Mycobacterium abscessus Subspecies According to Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Luo Liulin , Liu Weijia , Li Bing , Li Mengling , Huang Dongdong , Jing Linjie , Chen Huiping , Yang Jinghui , Yue Jun , Wang Fang , Chu Haiqing , Zhang Zhemin
Published: September 2016

This study was undertaken to evaluate the utility of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry with the Vitek MS Plus system for identifying
Mycobacterium abscessus
subspecies in order to facilitate more rapid and appropriate therapy. A total of 175 clinical
M. abscessus
strains were identified by whole-genome sequencing analysis: 139
Mycobacterium abscessus
subsp.
abscessus
and 36
Mycobacterium abscessus
subsp.
massiliense
. The research-use-only (RUO) Saramis Knowledge Base database v.4.12 was modified accordingly by adding 40
M. abscessus
subsp.
abscessus
and 19
M. abscessus
subsp.
massiliense
reference spectra to construct subspecies SuperSpectra. A blind test, used to validate the remaining 116 isolates, yielded 99.1% (
n
= 115) reliability and only 0.9% (
n
= 1) error for subspecies identification. Among the two subspecies SuperSpectra, two specific peaks were found for
M. abscessus
subsp.
abscessus
and four specific peaks were found for
M. abscessus
subsp.
massiliense
. Our study is the first to report differential peaks 3,354.4
m
/
z
and 6,711.1
m
/
z
, which were specific for
M. abscessus
subsp.
massiliense
. Our research demonstrates the capacity of the Vitek MS RUO Saramis Knowledge Base database to identify
M. abscessus
at the subspecies level. Moreover, it validates the potential ease and accuracy with which it can be incorporated into the IVD system for the identification of
M. abscessus
subspecies.
Acute Simian Varicella Virus Infection Causes Robust and Sustained Changes in Gene Expression in the Sensory Ganglia
Authors: Arnold Nicole , Girke Thomas , Sureshchandra Suhas , Messaoudi Ilhem
Published: September 2016

Primary infection with varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a neurotropic alphaherpesvirus, results in varicella. VZV establishes latency in the sensory ganglia and can reactivate later in life to cause herpes zoster. The relationship between VZV and its host during acute infection in the sensory ganglia is not well understood due to limited access to clinical specimens. Intrabronchial inoculation of rhesus macaques with simian varicella virus (SVV) recapitulates the hallmarks of VZV infection in humans. We leveraged this animal model to characterize the host-pathogen interactions in the ganglia during both acute and latent infection by measuring both viral and host transcriptomes on days postinfection (dpi) 3, 7, 10, 14, and 100. SVV DNA and transcripts were detected in sensory ganglia 3 dpi, before the appearance of rash. CD4 and CD8 T cells were also detected in the sensory ganglia 3 dpi. Moreover, lung-resident T cells isolated from the same animals 3 dpi also harbored SVV DNA and transcripts, suggesting that T cells may be responsible for trafficking SVV to the ganglia. Transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis showed that cessation of viral transcription 7 dpi coincides with a robust antiviral innate immune response in the ganglia. Interestingly, a significant number of genes that play a critical role in nervous system development and function remained downregulated into latency. These studies provide novel insights into host-pathogen interactions in the sensory ganglia during acute varicella and demonstrate that SVV infection results in profound and sustained changes in neuronal gene expression.

IMPORTANCE
Many aspects of VZV infection of sensory ganglia remain poorly understood, due to limited access to human specimens and the fact that VZV is strictly a human virus. Infection of rhesus macaques with simian varicella virus (SVV), a homolog of VZV, provides a robust model of the human disease. Using this model, we show that SVV reaches the ganglia early after infection, most likely by T cells, and that the induction of a robust innate immune response correlates with cessation of virus transcription. We also report significant changes in the expression of genes that play an important role in neuronal function. Importantly, these changes persist long after viral replication ceases. Given the homology between SVV and VZV, and the genetic and physiological similarities between rhesus macaques and humans, our results provide novel insight into the interactions between VZV and its human host and explain some of the neurological consequences of VZV infection.
The Splicing History of an mRNA Affects Its Level of Translation and Sensitivity to Cleavage by the Virion Host Shutoff Endonuclease during Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
Authors: Sadek Jouliana , Read G. Sullivan
Published: September 2016

During lytic herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, the virion host shutoff (Vhs) (UL41) endoribonuclease degrades many cellular and viral mRNAs. In uninfected cells, spliced mRNAs emerge into the cytoplasm bound by exon junction complexes (EJCs) and are translated several times more efficiently than unspliced mRNAs that have the same sequence but lack EJCs. Notably, most cellular mRNAs are spliced, whereas most HSV mRNAs are not. To examine the effect of splicing on gene expression during HSV infection, cells were transfected with plasmids harboring an unspliced renilla luciferase (RLuc) reporter mRNA or RLuc constructs with introns near the 5′ or 3′ end of the gene. After splicing of intron-containing transcripts, all three RLuc mRNAs had the same primary sequence. Upon infection in the presence of actinomycin D, spliced mRNAs were much less sensitive to degradation by copies of Vhs from infecting virions than were unspliced mRNAs. During productive infections (in the absence of drugs), RLuc was expressed at substantially higher levels from spliced than from unspliced mRNAs. Interestingly, the stimulatory effect of splicing on RLuc expression was significantly greater in infected than in uninfected cells. The translational stimulatory effect of an intron during HSV-1 infections could be replicated by artificially tethering various EJC components to an unspliced RLuc transcript. Thus, the splicing history of an mRNA, and the consequent presence or absence of EJCs, affects its level of translation and sensitivity to Vhs cleavage during lytic HSV infections.

IMPORTANCE
Most mammalian mRNAs are spliced. In contrast, of the more than 80 mRNAs harbored by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), only 5 are spliced. In addition, synthesis of the immediate early protein ICP27 causes partial inhibition of pre-mRNA splicing, with the resultant accumulation of both spliced and unspliced versions of some mRNAs in the cytoplasm. A common perception is that HSV-1 infection necessarily inhibits the expression of spliced mRNAs. In contrast, this study demonstrates two instances in which pre-mRNA splicing actually enhances the synthesis of proteins from mRNAs during HSV-1 infections. Specifically, splicing stabilized an mRNA against degradation by copies of the Vhs endoribonuclease from infecting virions and greatly enhanced the amount of protein synthesized from spliced mRNAs at late times after infection. The data suggest that splicing, and the resultant presence of exon junction complexes on an mRNA, may play an important role in gene expression during HSV-1 infections.
Altering the Anti-inflammatory Lipoxin Microenvironment: a New Insight into Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Pathogenesis
Authors: Chandrasekharan Jayashree A. , Huang Xiao M. , Hwang Alexander C. , Sharma-Walia Neelam
Published: September 2016

Lipoxins are host anti-inflammatory molecules that play a vital role in restoring tissue homeostasis. The efficacy of lipoxins and their analog epilipoxins in treating inflammation and its associated diseases has been well documented. Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) and primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) are two well-known inflammation related diseases caused by Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Controlling inflammation is one of the strategies adopted to treat KS and PEL, a primary motivation for exploring and evaluating the therapeutic potential of using lipoxins. This study documents how KSHV manipulates and downregulates the secretion of the anti-inflammatory lipoxin A4 in host cells and the viral factors involved in this process using
in vitro
KS and PEL cells as models. The presence of the lipoxin A4 receptor/formyl peptidyl receptor (ALX/FPR) in KS patient tissue sections and
in vitro
KS and PEL cell models offers a novel possibility for treating KS and PEL with lipoxins. Treating
de novo
KSHV-infected endothelial cells with lipoxin and epilipoxin creates an anti-inflammatory environment by decreasing the levels of NF-κB, AKT, ERK1/2, COX-2, and 5-lipoxygenase. Lipoxin treatment on CRISPR/CAS9 technology-mediated ALX/FPR gene deletion revealed the importance of the lipoxin receptor ALX for effective lipoxin signaling. A viral microRNA (miRNA) cluster was identified as the primary factor contributing to the downregulation of lipoxin A4 secretion in host cells. The KSHV miRNA cluster probably targets enzyme 15-lipoxygenase, which is involved in lipoxin A4 synthesis. This study provides a new insight into the potential treatment of KS and PEL using nature's own anti-inflammatory molecule, lipoxin.

IMPORTANCE
KSHV infection has been shown to upregulate several host proinflammatory factors, which aid in its survival and pathogenesis. The influence of KSHV infection on anti-inflammatory molecules is not well studied. Since current treatment methods for KS and PEL are fraught with unwanted side effects and low efficiency, the search for new therapeutics is therefore imperative. The use of nature's own molecule lipoxin as a drug is promising. This study opens up new domains in KSHV research focusing on how the virus modulates lipoxin secretion and warrants further investigation of the therapeutic potential of lipoxin using
in vitro
cell models for KS and PEL.