bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, implementation and reporting strategies to reduce the instance and impact of missing patient-reported outcome (PRO) data: a systematic review
Authors: Mercieca-Bebber Rebecca , Palmer Michael J , Brundage Michael , Calvert Melanie , Stockler Martin R , King Madeleine T
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) provide important information about the impact of treatment from the patients' perspective. However, missing PRO data may compromise the interpretability and value of the findings. We aimed to report: (1) a non-technical summary of problems caused by missing PRO data; and (2) a systematic review by collating strategies to: (A) minimise rates of missing PRO data, and (B) facilitate transparent interpretation and reporting of missing PRO data in clinical research. Our systematic review does not address statistical handling of missing PRO data.

Data sources

MEDLINE and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases (inception to 31 March 2015), and citing articles and reference lists from relevant sources.

Eligibility criteria

English articles providing recommendations for reducing missing PRO data rates, or strategies to facilitate transparent interpretation and reporting of missing PRO data were included.

Methods

2 reviewers independently screened articles against eligibility criteria. Discrepancies were resolved with the research team. Recommendations were extracted and coded according to framework synthesis.

Results

117 sources (55% discussion papers, 26% original research) met the eligibility criteria. Design and methodological strategies for reducing rates of missing PRO data included: incorporating PRO-specific information into the protocol; carefully designing PRO assessment schedules and defining termination rules; minimising patient burden; appointing a PRO coordinator; PRO-specific training for staff; ensuring PRO studies are adequately resourced; and continuous quality assurance. Strategies for transparent interpretation and reporting of missing PRO data include utilising auxiliary data to inform analysis; transparently reporting baseline PRO scores, rates and reasons for missing data; and methods for handling missing PRO data.

Conclusions

The instance of missing PRO data and its potential to bias clinical research can be minimised by implementing thoughtful design, rigorous methodology and transparent reporting strategies. All members of the research team have a responsibility in implementing such strategies.
Biomechanical factors associated with the development of tibiofemoral knee osteoarthritis: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: van Tunen Joyce A C , Dell'Isola Andrea , Juhl Carsten , Dekker Joost , Steultjens Martijn , Lund Hans
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Altered biomechanics, increased joint loading and tissue damage, might be related in a vicious cycle within the development of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). We have defined biomechanical factors as joint-related factors that interact with the forces, moments and kinematics in and around a synovial joint. Although a number of studies and systematic reviews have been performed to assess the association of various factors with the development of KOA, a comprehensive overview focusing on biomechanical factors that are associated with the development of KOA is not available. The aim of this review is (1) to identify biomechanical factors that are associated with (the development of) KOA and (2) to identify the impact of other relevant risk factors on this association.

Methods and analysis

Cohort, cross-sectional and case–control studies investigating the association of a biomechanical factor with (the development of) KOA will be included. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus will be searched from their inception until August 2015. 2 reviewers will independently screen articles obtained by the search for eligibility, extract data and score risk of bias. Quality of evidence will be evaluated. Meta-analysis using random effects model will be applied in each of the biomechanical factors, if possible.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review and meta-analysis does not require ethical approval. The results of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be disseminated through publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at (inter)national conferences.

Trial registration number

CRD42015025092.
Incidence of adverse events in paediatric procedural sedation in the emergency department: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bellolio M Fernanda , Puls Henrique A , Anderson Jana L , Gilani Waqas I , Murad M Hassan , Barrionuevo Patricia , Erwin Patricia J , Wang Zhen , Hess Erik P
Published: June 2016

Objective and design

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the incidence of adverse events in the emergency department (ED) during procedural sedation in the paediatric population. Randomised controlled trials and observational studies from the past 10 years were included. We adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Setting

ED.

Participants

Children.

Interventions

Procedural sedation.

Outcomes

Adverse events like vomiting, agitation, hypoxia and apnoea. Meta-analysis was performed with random-effects model and reported as incidence rates with 95% CIs.

Results

A total of 1177 studies were retrieved for screening and 258 were selected for full-text review. 41 studies reporting on 13 883 procedural sedations in 13 876 children (≤18 years) were included. The most common adverse events (all reported per 1000 sedations) were: vomiting 55.5 (CI 45.2 to 65.8), agitation 17.9 (CI 12.2 to 23.7), hypoxia 14.8 (CI 10.2 to 19.3) and apnoea 7.1 (CI 3.2 to 11.0). The need to intervene with either bag valve mask, oral airway or positive pressure ventilation occurred in 5.0 per 1000 sedations (CI 2.3 to 7.6). The incidences of severe respiratory events were: 34 cases of laryngospasm among 8687 sedations (2.9 per 1000 sedations, CI 1.1 to 4.7; absolute rate 3.9 per 1000 sedations), 4 intubations among 9136 sedations and 0 cases of aspiration among 3326 sedations. 33 of the 34 cases of laryngospasm occurred in patients who received ketamine.

Conclusions

Serious adverse respiratory events are very rare in paediatric procedural sedation in the ED. Emesis and agitation are the most frequent adverse events. Hypoxia, a late indicator of respiratory depression, occurs in 1.5% of sedations. Laryngospasm, though rare, happens most frequently with ketamine. The results of this study provide quantitative risk estimates to facilitate shared decision-making, risk communication, informed consent and resource allocation in children undergoing procedural sedation in the ED.
Identifying risk factors for progression to critical care admission and death among individuals with acute pancreatitis: a record linkage analysis of Scottish healthcare databases
Authors: Mole Damian J , Gungabissoon Usha , Johnston Philip , Cochrane Lynda , Hopkins Leanne , Wyper Grant M A , Skouras Christos , Dibben Chris , Sullivan Frank , Morris Andrew , Ward Hester J T , Lawton Andrew M , Donnan Peter T
Published: June 2016

Objectives

Acute pancreatitis (AP) can initiate systemic complications that require support in critical care (CC). Our objective was to use the unified national health record to define the epidemiology of AP in Scotland, with a specific focus on deterministic and prognostic factors for CC admission in AP.

Setting

Health boards in Scotland (n=4).

Participants

We included all individuals in a retrospective observational cohort with at least one episode of AP (ICD10 code K85) occurring in Scotland from 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2012. 3340 individuals were coded as AP.

Methods

Data from 16 sources, spanning general practice, community prescribing, Accident and Emergency attendances, hospital in-patient, CC and mortality registries, were linked by a unique patient identifier in a national safe haven. Logistic regression and gamma models were used to define independent predictive factors for severe AP (sAP) requiring CC admission or leading to death.

Results

2053 individuals (61.5% (95% CI 59.8% to 63.2%)) met the definition for true AP (tAP). 368 patients (17.9% of tAP (95% CI 16.2% to 19.6%)) were admitted to CC. Predictors of sAP were pre-existing angina or hypertension, hypocalcaemia and age 30–39 years, if type 2 diabetes mellitus was present. The risk of sAP was lower in patients with multiple previous episodes of AP. In-hospital mortality in tAP was 5.0% (95% CI 4.1% to 5.9%) overall and 21.7% (95% CI 19.9% to 23.5%) in those with tAP necessitating CC admission.

Conclusions

National record-linkage analysis of routinely collected data constitutes a powerful resource to model CC admission and prognosticate death during AP. Mortality in patients with AP who require CC admission remains high.
Protocol for the Electroencephalography Guidance of Anesthesia to Alleviate Geriatric Syndromes (ENGAGES) study: a pragmatic, randomised clinical trial
Authors: Wildes T S , Winter A C , Maybrier H R , Mickle A M , Lenze E J , Stark S , Lin N , Inouye S K , Schmitt E M , McKinnon S L , Muench M R , Murphy M R , Upadhyayula R T , Fritz B A , Escallier K E , Apakama G P , Emmert D A , Graetz T J , Stevens T W , Palanca B J , Hueneke R L , Melby S , Torres B , Leung J , Jacobsohn E , Avidan M S
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Postoperative delirium, arbitrarily defined as occurring within 5 days of surgery, affects up to 50% of patients older than 60 after a major operation. This geriatric syndrome is associated with longer intensive care unit and hospital stay, readmission, persistent cognitive deterioration and mortality. No effective preventive methods have been identified, but preliminary evidence suggests that EEG monitoring during general anaesthesia, by facilitating reduced anaesthetic exposure and EEG suppression, might decrease incident postoperative delirium. This study hypothesises that EEG-guidance of anaesthetic administration prevents postoperative delirium and downstream sequelae, including falls and decreased quality of life.

Methods and analysis

This is a 1232 patient, block-randomised, double-blinded, comparative effectiveness trial. Patients older than 60, undergoing volatile agent-based general anaesthesia for major surgery, are eligible. Patients are randomised to 1 of 2 anaesthetic approaches. One group receives general anaesthesia with clinicians blinded to EEG monitoring. The other group receives EEG-guidance of anaesthetic agent administration. The outcomes of postoperative delirium (≤5 days), falls at 1 and 12 months and health-related quality of life at 1 and 12 months will be compared between groups. Postoperative delirium is assessed with the confusion assessment method, falls with ProFaNE consensus questions and quality of life with the Veteran's RAND 12-item Health Survey. The intention-to-treat principle will be followed for all analyses. Differences between groups will be presented with 95% CIs and will be considered statistically significant at a two-sided p<0.05.

Ethics and dissemination

Electroencephalography Guidance of Anesthesia to Alleviate Geriatric Syndromes (ENGAGES) is approved by the ethics board at Washington University. Recruitment began in January 2015. Dissemination plans include presentations at scientific conferences, scientific publications, internet-based educational materials and mass media.

Trial registration number

NCT02241655; Pre-results.
Community-based perceptions of emergency care in Zambian communities lacking formalised emergency medicine systems
Authors: Broccoli Morgan C , Cunningham Charmaine , Twomey Michele , Wallis Lee A
Published: June 2016

Background

In Zambia, an increasing burden of acute illness and injury emphasised the necessity of strengthening the national emergency care system.

Objective

The objective of this study was to identify critical interventions necessary to improve the Zambian emergency care system by determining the current pattern of emergency care delivery as experienced by members of the community, identifying the barriers faced when trying to access emergency care and gathering community-generated solutions to improve emergency care in their setting.

Methods

We used a qualitative research methodology to conduct focus groups with community members and healthcare providers in three Zambian provinces. Twenty-one community focus groups with 183 total participants were conducted overall, split equally between the provinces. An additional six focus groups were conducted with Zambian healthcare providers. Data were coded, aggregated and analysed using the content analysis approach.

Results

Community members in Zambia experience a wide range of medical emergencies. There is substantial reliance on family members and neighbours for assistance, commonly with transportation. Community-identified and provider-identified barriers to emergency care included transportation, healthcare provider deficiencies, lack of community knowledge, the national referral system and police protocols.

Conclusions

Creating community education initiatives, strengthening the formal prehospital emergency care system, implementing triage in healthcare facilities and training healthcare providers in emergency care were community-identified and provider-identified solutions for improving access to emergency care.
Cost–benefit analysis of fall injuries prevented by a programme of home modifications: a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Keall Michael D , Pierse Nevil , Howden-Chapman Philippa , Guria Jagadish , Cunningham Chris W , Baker Michael G
Published: June 2016

Background

Injuries due to falls in the home impose a huge social and economic cost on society. We have previously found important safety benefits of home modifications such as handrails for steps and stairs, grab rails for bathrooms, outside lighting, edging for outside steps and slip-resistant surfacing for outside areas such as decks. Here we assess the economic benefits of these modifications.

Methods

Using a single-blinded cluster randomised controlled trial, we analysed insurance payments for medically treated home fall injuries as recorded by the national injury insurer. The benefits in terms of the value of disability adjusted life years (DALYs) averted and social costs of injuries saved were extrapolated to a national level and compared with the costs of the intervention.

Results

An intention-to-treat analysis was carried out. Injury costs per time exposed to the modified homes compared with the unmodified homes showed a reduction in the costs of home fall injuries of 33% (95% CI 5% to 49%). The social benefits of injuries prevented were estimated to be at least six times the costs of the intervention. The benefit–cost ratio can be at least doubled for older people and increased by 60% for those with a prior history of fall injuries.

Conclusions

This is the first randomised controlled trial to examine the benefits of home modification for reducing fall injury costs in the general population. The results show a convincing economic justification for undertaking relatively low-cost home repairs and installing safety features to prevent falls.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12609000779279.
Decomposing change in China's suicide rate, 1990–2010: ageing and urbanisation
Authors: Sha Feng , Yip Paul S F , Law Yik Wa
Published: June 2016

Objective

The study empirically quantifies the contributions of age composition and urbanisation to changes in the suicide rate in China over the periods 1990–2000 and 2000–2010.

Methods

A decompositional method was used to quantify the absolute and relative contributions of the age structure; the age-specific proportion of the urban population and the suicide rate of each age-specific, gender-specific and urban/rural cohort to the overall suicide rates in the two 10-year intervals.

Results

In the period between 1990 and 2000, a significant decline in the suicide rate among younger age groups (especially young rural women) was identified as the main driving force of the downward trend in the overall suicide rate. In 2000–2010, the rate of decline in suicide was predominantly explained by the drop in the suicide rate among all age groups in rural areas, with the exception of those aged over 80. The positive impact of urbanisation on the decline of the suicide rate has gradually diminished relative to the earlier period.

Conclusion

As the positive impact of urbanisation on suicide rates is diminishing, further urbanisation and rapid change in society may induce stress and adjustment problems that are not conducive to the promotion of well-being. Furthermore, as China is facing the prospects of slower economic growth and a rapidly ageing population, suicides among older adults may also be elevated, particularly among those in rural areas with insufficient healthcare and social support. In order to maintain the decreasing trend of suicide in China, it is important for the Chinese government to pay more attention to the mental well-being of the population and to mitigate the stress of urban life and to provide timely support to older adults especially in rural areas.
Do health checks for adults with intellectual disability reduce emergency hospital admissions? Evaluation of a natural experiment
Authors: Carey Iain M , Hosking Fay J , Harris Tess , DeWilde Stephen , Beighton Carole , Shah Sunil M , Cook Derek G
Published: June 2016

Background

Annual health checks for adults with intellectual disability (ID) have been incentivised by National Health Service (NHS) England since 2009, but it is unclear what impact they have had on important health outcomes such as emergency hospitalisation.

Methods

An evaluation of a ‘natural experiment’, incorporating practice and individual-level designs, to assess the effectiveness of health checks for adults with ID in reducing emergency hospital admissions using a large English primary care database. For practices, changes in admission rates for adults with ID between 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 were compared in 126 fully participating versus 68 non-participating practices. For individuals, changes in admission rates before and after the first health check for 7487 adults with ID were compared with 46 408 age-sex-practice matched controls. Incident rate ratios (IRRs) comparing changes in admission rates are presented for: all emergency, preventable emergency (for ambulatory care sensitive conditions (ACSCs)) and elective emergency.

Results

Practices with high health check participation showed no change in emergency admission rate among patients with ID over time compared with non-participating practices (IRR=0.97, 95% CI 0.78 to 1.19), but emergency admissions for ACSCs did fall (IRR=0.74, 0.58 to 0.95). Among individuals with ID, health checks had no effect on overall emergency admissions compared with controls (IRR=0.96, 0.87 to 1.07), although there was a relative reduction in emergency admissions for ACSCs (IRR=0.82, 0.69 to 0.99). Elective admissions showed no change with health checks in either analysis.

Conclusions

Annual health checks in primary care for adults with ID did not alter overall emergency admissions, but they appeared influential in reducing preventable emergency admissions.
Factors associated with successful revascularization using the aspiration component of ADAPT in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Mascitelli Justin R , Kellner Christopher P , Oravec Chesney S , De Leacy Reade A , Oermann Eric K , Yaeger Kurt , Paramasivam Srinivasan , Fifi Johanna T , Mocco J
Published: June 2016

Introduction

ADAPT (a direct aspiration first pass technique) has been shown to be fast, cost-effective, and associated with excellent angiographic and clinical outcomes in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Objective

To identify any and all preoperative factors that are associated with successful revascularization using aspiration alone.

Methods

A retrospective review of 76 patients with AIS treated with thrombectomy was carried out. Cohort 1 included cases in which aspiration alone was successful (Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction 2b or 3). Cohort 2 included cases in which aspiration was unsuccessful or could not be performed despite an attempt.

Results

There was no difference between cohorts in gender, race, medications, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score, IV tissue plasminogen activator, site or side of the occlusion, dense vessel sign, aortic arch type, severe stenosis, clot length, operator years of experience, and guide/aspiration catheters used. Patients in cohort 1 were on average younger (66.5 vs 74.1 years, p=0.025). There was a trend for more patients in cohort 2 to have atrial fibrillation/arrhythmias (62.5% vs 45.5%, p=0.168) and have a cardiogenic stroke etiology (78.1% vs 56.8%, p=0.086). There was also a trend for more reverse curves (2.3 vs 1.7, p=0.107), larger vessel diameter (3.26 mm vs 2.88 mm, p=0.184), larger vessel-to-catheter ratio (2.09 vs 1.87, p=0.192), and worse clot burden score (5.38 vs 6.68, p=0.104) in cohort 2.

Conclusions

Aspiration success was associated with younger age. Our findings suggest that ADAPT can be used for the vast majority of patients but it may be beneficial to use a different method first in the elderly.
Does body mass index (BMI) influence the Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score in axial spondyloarthritis?
Authors: Rubio Vargas Roxana , van den Berg Rosaline , van Lunteren Miranda , Ez-Zaitouni Zineb , Bakker Pauline A C , Dagfinrud Hanne , Ramonda Roberta , Landewé Robert , Molenaar Esmeralda , van Gaalen Floris A , van der Heijde Désirée
Published: June 2016

Objective

Obesity is associated with elevated C reactive protein (CRP) levels. The Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score (ASDAS) combines patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and CRP. We evaluated the effect of body mass index (BMI) on CRP and on ASDAS, and studied if ASDAS can be used in obese axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) patients to assess disease activity.

Methods

Baseline data of patients with chronic back pain of short duration included in the SPondyloArthritis Caught Early (SPACE) cohort were used. Collected data included BMI and ASDAS. Patients were classified according to the ASAS axSpA classification criteria and BMI (overweight ≥25 and obese ≥30). Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed to assess the relation between BMI and ASDAS. Linear regression models were performed to assess if age or gender were effect modifiers in the relation between BMI and CRP, and between BMI and ASDAS.

Results

In total, 428 patients were analysed (n=168 axSpA; n=260 no-axSpA). The mean age was 31.1 years, 36.9% were male, 26.4% were overweight and 13.3% obese, median CRP was 3 mg/L and the mean ASDAS was 2.6. Gender was the only factor modifying the relationship between BMI and CRP as BMI had an influence on CRP only in females (β=0.35; p<0.001). Correlations between BMI and CRP or PROs were generally weak, and only significant for CRP in female patients. BMI was not related to ASDAS in axSpA patients.

Conclusions

ASDAS is not affected by BMI in axSpA patients. Therefore, based on our data it is not necessary to take BMI in consideration when assessing disease activity using ASDAS in axSpA patients.
Effets stimulateurs des oligogalacturonates sur l'excrétion de polysaccharides acides par la suspension cellulaire de Silène
Authors: Marga Françoise , Priem Bernard , Morvan Henri
Published: June 2016

The composition and the acidity of the exopolysaccharides excreted into the medium of suspension-cultured white campion cells (Silene alba (Miller) E.H.L. Krause) in presence of oligogalacturonates changed during the first hours after transfer into a new medium. The early increase in acidic polysaccharide secretion in the presence of oligogalacturonates fell quickly during the course of the culture cycle. This effect increased with the degree of polymerization of oligomers..The rapid nature of this response and the influence of size suggests a physicochemical mechanism. Furthermore, cell growth was partially inhibited by the oligogalacturonates. Key words: oligogalacturonates, cell growth, exopolysaccharides, Silene alba, suspension-cultured cells.
A survey of mycorrhizal plants on Truelove Lowland, Devon Island, N.W.T., Canada
Authors: Bledsoe C. , Klein P. , Bliss L. C.
Published: June 2016

Although mycorrhizal associations are commonly found on roots of most plant species, little is known about the presence or absence of mycorrhizae in arctic regions. In the Canadian High Arctic, roots of 55 herbaceous and woody plant species were examined for mycorrhizae during the summers of 1987 and 1988 on Devon Island, N.W.T. Ectomycorrhizal associations were found on roots of Salix arctica, Dryas integrifolia, and Potentilla hyparctica; ericoid mycorrhizae formed on Cassiope tetragona and Vaccinium uliginosum. Ectomycorrhizal roots were often covered with black hyphae resembling the fungus Cenococcum geophilum; sclerotia characteristic of this fungus were found in soil extracts. Plants expected to have endomycorrhizal associations were apparently nonmycorrhizal in the traditional sense, since no arbuscules, vesicles, or pelotons were found on any roots during two field seasons. Although extensive fungal hyphae were often present on and within roots, these hyphae could not be conclusively identified as endomycorrhizal. Some dark, septate hyphae were present; their function, although unknown, may be beneficial to the host. In a series of greenhouse bioassays using arctic soils, no endomycorrhizal associations developed on test plants. Spores of vesicular–arbuscular fungi were not found in soil extracts. Thus in this survey, only ectomycorrhizal associations were observed, suggesting that the cold, dry winter and cold, wet summer climates in this area of the High Arctic severely limit formation of endomycorrhizae. Key words: roots, fungi, ectomycorrhizae, endomycorrhizae, arctic.
Ultrastructural studies on the cleistothecial development of Emericellopsis microspora (Eurotiales, Ascomycetes)
Authors: Wu Chi-Guang , Kimbrough James W.
Published: June 2016

Cytological development of ascocarps in Emericellopsis is described. Intertwined hyphae initiate ascocarp primordia in the center of which enlarged ascogonial cells occur. Walls between the central cells disintegrate, resulting in an enlarged, multinucleate cell from which ascogenous cells emerge. Cell walls are reconstituted and repetitious croziers (pleurorhynque type) develop into chains of asci that mature in consecutive order. Ascosporogenesis is very similar to that in other filamentous ascomycetes. Ascogonial formation, ascocarp development, and the ascogenous system are compared with Ascosphaera and Monascus. Centrum development in Emericellopsis is very similar to that in these genera, and in this respect somewhat sets them apart from other ascomycetes. Key words: Monascus, Ascosphaera, Plectomycetes, cytological development, crazier, ascogenesis, ascal chain, ascosporogenesis, cell fusion, centrum.
Organization of the Niagara Escarpment cliff community. II. Characterization of the physical environment
Authors: Bartlett R. M. , Matthes-Sears U. , Larson D. W.
Published: June 2016

In cliff-edge forests along the Niagara Escarpment, an array of species, including Thuja occidentals, is restricted to the cliff edge while different species, including Acer saccharum, are increasingly dominant away from the cliff on the plateau. This paper presents detailed analyses of 13 components of the physical environment, measured over an 18-month period, as they change across the plateau and towards the cliff edge. Statistically significant differences between the cliff-edge habitat and the adjacent deciduous forest were found in most of the 13 variables, and the results indicate a strong environmental gradient between the cliff edge and deciduous forest habitats. Lower and more rapidly fluctuating soil moisture levels combined with low photosynthetically active radiation at the cliff edge suggest that conditions there are frequently more severe for plants than in the deciduous forest in summer. Additionally, the cliff edge was snow free during the winter and the soils were frozen for a more protracted period than the deciduous forest soils. Soil and litter depths decreased significantly from the deciduous forest toward the cliff edge. The effects of these differences are discussed with reference to the characteristics of species that dominate the deciduous and coniferous cliff-edge zones. Key words: cliff, gradient, Thuja occidentalis, Acer saccharum, microclimate, Niagara Escarpment.
Morphometric studies of the Euphorbia esula group (Euphorbiaceae) in North America
Authors: Crompton C. W. , Stahevitch A. E. , Wojtas W. A.
Published: June 2016

Leafy spurge and cypress spurge are important weeds of pastures and unimproved rangeland in western and eastern North America, respectively. Taxonomists disagree as to whether leafy spurge is a single variable species or an aggregate of two or more species. Morphometric techniques (clustering by incremental sum of squares and principal coordinate analysis) were used to analyze relationships in leafy spurge and its allies. On the basis of studying 26 morphological characters found in 200 collections representing 32 putative taxa, we concluded that in North America only four species should be recognized, namely, Euphorbia agraria Bieb., Euphorbia cyparissias L., Euphorbia esula L., and Euphorbia ×pseudoesula Schur. A key to these taxa is provided. No authentic material of Euphorbia lucida Waldst. & Kitt. and Euphorbia salicifolia Host was found from this continent in the collections we examined.
Comportement in vitro de bourgeons axillaires de type indéterminé du palmier dattier (Phoenix dactylifera)
Authors: Bouguedoura Nadia , Michaux-Ferrière Nicole , Bompar Jean-Louis
Published: June 2016

Indeterminate axillary buds excised from young offshoots of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) developed into flowering or vegetative buds when cultured under different in vitro conditions. Floral induction was observed in explants cultured in the dark on Murashige and Skoog's medium supplemented with 50 g∙L−1 of sucrose and several auxins and cytokinins in a ratio favouring the auxins. In contrast, vegetative buds were obtained from explants cultured under a 16-h photoperiod on Murashige and Skoog's medium supplemented with 30 g∙L−1 of sucrose and 1 mg∙L−1 of indolebutyric acid. The results showed that numerous vegetative meristems can be produced from indeterminate buds cultured in vitro. The results also confirmed the observations made during an in vivo study of flowering and vegetative bud development. The importance of the nutritional contribution of the leaves surrounding the flowering buds was pointed out. Key words: Phoenix dactylifera, axillary buds, indeterminate buds, in vitro culture, floral state, vegetative state, morphogenesis.
Cryptosphaeria canker on Populus tremuloides in Minnesota
Authors: Juzwik J. , French D. W.
Published: June 2016

Cryptosphaeria cankers were found on living Populus tremuloides in Afton and Cloquet, Minnesota. Typical cankers were produced on 25 of 26 trees inoculated with a Cryptosphaeria lignyota isolate from Afton. Four trees were killed by the fungus within 45 months of inoculation. The fungus was recovered from extensively discolored portions of the sapwood. Key words: trembling aspen, Cryptosphaeria lignyota.
Large-scale successive boulder impacts on a rigid barrier shielded by gabions
Authors: Ng C.W.W. , Choi C.E. , Su A.Y. , Kwan J.S.H. , Lam C.
Published: June 2016

Debris flows occur in multiple surges. Boulders entrained within the flow have been reported to incapacitate structures within its flow path. Single-layer cushions, such as gabions, are often installed to shield debris-resisting barriers from boulder impact. However, most relevant works only focus on single impact and the performance of gabions subjected to successive loading is still not well understood. A new large-scale pendulum facility was established to induce impact energy of up to 70 kJ on an instrumented rigid barrier shielded by 1 m thick gabions. The response of the gabions under six successive impacts was investigated. Results show that the peak boulder impact force given by the Hertz equation is at least four times the measured values. The recommended load-reduction factor (Kc) used in practice can be reduced by a factor of two. After six successive impacts at an energy level of 70 kJ, the transmitted force increases by up to 40%. Based on the Swiss guidelines, a 13% increase of gabion thickness is required when successive impacts are concerned. The results presented in this paper will be useful for practitioners designing rigid barriers.
Behavior of braced excavation supported by panels of deep mixing columns
Authors: Ignat Razvan , Baker Sadek , Liedberg Sven , Larsson Stefan
Published: June 2016

This paper describes the instrumentation, execution and performance of two full-scale tests where a braced steel sheet pile wall interacting with rows of overlapping dry deep mixing columns was excavated and then loaded to failure. The purpose of these tests was to provide knowledge of the behavior of deep mixing column rows located in the passive zone and interacting with a retaining structure. Both tests were extensively instrumented on the active as well as on the passive side of the retaining structure. In both conducted tests a stability failure of the retaining structure occurred, resulting in heave at the bottom of the excavation and large settlements of the ground surface behind the sheet pile wall. For a spacing between lime-cement (LC)-panels of 3.0 m, a very brittle failure developed suddenly in the clay between the panels with small deformations prior to failure. In the second test, with a spacing of 1.5 m between LC-panels, the failure developed in the LC-panels as well as in the clay between the panels. Even if a similar failure mechanism developed, measured horizontal displacements, horizontal stresses, and pore pressure response prior to failure differed between the tests.
A review of techniques for detecting Huanglongbing (greening) in citrus
Authors: Arredondo Valdés Roberto , Delgado Ortiz Juan C. , Beltrán Beache Mariana , Anguiano Cabello Julia , Cerna Chávez Ernesto , Rodríguez Pagaza Yolanda , Ochoa Fuentes Yisa M.
Published: June 2016

Huanglongbing (HLB) is the most destructive disease of citrus worldwide. Monitoring of health and detection of diseases in trees is critical for sustainable agriculture. HLB symptoms are virtually the same wherever the disease occurs. The disease is caused by Candidatus Liberibacter spp., vectored by the psyllids Diaphorina citri Kuwayama and Trioza erytreae. Electron microscopy was the first technique used for HLB detection. Nowadays, scientists are working on the development of new techniques for a rapid HLB detection, as there is no sensor commercially accessible for real-time assessment of health conditions in trees. Currently, the most widely used mechanism for monitoring HLB is exploration, which is an expensive, labor-intensive, and time-consuming process. Molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction are used for the identification of HLB disease, which requires detailed sampling and processing procedures. Furthermore, investigations are ongoing in spectroscopic and imaging techniques, profiling of plant volatile organic compounds, and isothermal amplification. This study recognizes the need for developing a rapid, cost-effective, and reliable health-monitoring sensor that would facilitate advancements in HLB disease detection. This paper compares the benefits and limitations of these potential methods for HLB detection.
The potential to regain organic carbon in degraded soils: A boundary line approach
Authors: VandenBygaart A.J.
Published: June 2016

There is a physical limit to the storage capacity of soil organic carbon (SOC) that is dependent on fine particles in arable soils. Here, it is demonstrated that a ceiling of SOC storage can be identified utilizing a boundary line approach relating SOC to the clay fraction of soils in Ontario. The method can determine the deficit of SOC to establish the potential to regain SOC and ameliorate eroded landscape positions.
Coarse-graining the input of education and R&D in China
Authors: Ren Zhuo-Ming , Kong Yixiu
Published: June 2016

Coarse-grained analysis enhances our understanding of complex processes such as physical procedures, economic complexity. We collect the data sets from 31 regions of China in terms of the gross regional domestic product (GRDP) and the expense invested in Education and R&D between 1998 and 2013, then employ the coarse-grained method to analyze the causal direction according to the cross-section data with time-series information. Specifically, the empirical results suggest that the share of the GRDP invested in Education and R&D in large time scale reveals a dynamical process due to economic complexity, but limits around to base lines.
A study of dynamical equations for non-minimally coupled scalar field using Noether symmetric approach
Authors: Dutta Sourav , Panja Madan Mohan , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: June 2016

Non-minimally coupled scalar field cosmology has been studied in this work within the framework of Einstein gravity. In the background of homogeneous and isotropic Friedmann–Lemaitre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) spacetime non-minimally coupled scalar field having self-interacting potential is taken as the source of the matter content. The constraint of imposing Noether symmetry on the Lagrangian of the system not only determines the infinitesimal generator (the symmetry vector) but also the coupling function and the self-interacting potential for the scalar field. By choosing appropriately a point transformation in the augmented space, one of the transformed variables is cyclic for the Lagrangian. Finally, using constants of motion, the solutions are analyzed.
A note on graded polynomial identities for tensor products by the Grassmann algebra in positive characteristic
Authors: Centrone Lucio , da Silva Viviane Ribeiro Tomaz
Published: June 2016

Let [Formula: see text] be a finite abelian group. As a consequence of the results of Di Vincenzo and Nardozza, we have that the generators of the [Formula: see text]-ideal of [Formula: see text]-graded identities of a [Formula: see text]-graded algebra in characteristic 0 and the generators of the [Formula: see text]-ideal of [Formula: see text]-graded identities of its tensor product by the infinite-dimensional Grassmann algebra [Formula: see text] endowed with the canonical grading have pairly the same degree. In this paper, we deal with [Formula: see text]-graded identities of [Formula: see text] over an infinite field of characteristic [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text] endowed with a specific [Formula: see text]-grading. We find identities of degree [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] while the maximal degree of a generator of the [Formula: see text]-graded identities of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we find a basis of the [Formula: see text]-graded identities of [Formula: see text] and also a basis of multihomogeneous polynomials for the relatively free algebra. Finally, we compute the [Formula: see text]-graded Gelfand–Kirillov (GK) dimension of [Formula: see text].
An AHP-Topsis Integrated Model for Selecting the Most Appropriate Tomography Equipment
Authors: Barrios Miguel Angel Ortiz , De Felice Fabio , Negrete Kevin Parra , Romero Brandon Aleman , Arenas Adriana Yaruro , Petrillo Antonella
Published: June 2016

Selecting a suitable Multi Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) method is a crucial step in selecting appropriate medical equipment. The aim of the research is to define the most appropriate tomography equipment through the integration of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. A hybrid model is presented. The AHP is used to define the weights of each criterion and sub-criterion through qualitative comparisons. Then, TOPSIS is used to evaluate the purchase options. This research provides decision makers with a scientific and rigorous decision support system useful in strategic and complex decision. A numerical example is also presented.
Variable Differently Implicational Inference for R- and S-Implications
Authors: Tang Yiming , Ren Fuji
Published: June 2016

As a generalization of the compositional rule of inference (CRI) algorithm and the fully implicational algorithm, the differently implicational algorithm of fuzzy inference not only inherit the advantages of the fully implicational algorithm, but also has stronger practicability. Then, the variable differently implicational algorithm was proposed to make the current differently implicational algorithms compose a united whole. In this paper, the variable differently implicational algorithm is further researched focusing on the fuzzy modus tollens (FMT) problem. The differently implicational principle for FMT is improved. Moreover, the unified solutions of the variable differently implicational algorithm for FMT are accomplished for R- and S-implications. Following that, as an important index of fuzzy inference, the continuity of this algorithm is analyzed for main R- and S-implications, in which excellent performance is obtained. Finally, its optimal solutions as well as inference examples are provided for several specific R- and S-implications.
Thermal geometric discords in a two-qutrit system
Authors: Yuan Ya-Li , Hou Xi-Wen
Published: June 2016

The investigation of quantum discord has mostly focused on two-qubit systems due to the complicated minimization involved in quantum discord for high-dimensional states. In this work, three geometric discords are studied for the thermal state in a two-qutrit system with various couplings, external magnetic fields, and temperatures as well, where the entanglement measured in terms of the generalized negativity is calculated for reference. It is shown that three geometric discords are more robust against temperature and magnetic field than the entanglement negativity. However, all four quantities exhibit a similar behavior at lower temperature and weak magnetic field. Remarkably, three geometric discords at finite temperature reveal the phenomenon of double sudden changes at different magnetic fields while the negativity does not. Moreover, the hierarchy among three discords is discussed. Those adjustable discords with the varied coupling, temperature, and magnetic field are useful for the understanding of quantum correlations in high-dimensional states and quantum information processing.
LONG-RUN DYNAMICS BETWEEN PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE LENGTH AND INNOVATION PERFORMANCE IN MANUFACTURING
Authors: PLEWA MARKUS
Published: June 2016

Changes in the duration of product life cycles (PLCs) have been identified as a driving factor for increasing the speed of new product development (NPD). However, the facilitating potential of increasing the speed to market of new products regarding their success has been subject to extensive debate. In this paper, we shed light on the long-run dynamics between PLC and key innovation performance indicators. A large secondary data set allows us to investigate long-run within-company differences. We observe significantly shrinking PLC on the one hand and significantly increasing NPD speed on the other. A change in the length of the PLC is positively linked to changes in time to market (Ttmarket) and time to volume. Also, we confirm a positive empirical relationship between shorter Ttmarket and quicker implementation of targeted quality and productivity. However, we cannot confirm a positive relationship between shorter Ttmarket and shorter time to break-even of investments.
Gaussian fluctuations of eigenvalues of random Hermitian matrices associated with fixed and varying weights
Authors: Lubinsky D. S.
Published: June 2016

We investigate fluctuations of eigenvalues in the bulk for random Hermitian matrices associated with (i) a fixed weight on a compact interval, (ii) an exponential weight on a possibly unbounded interval and (iii) varying exponential weights. In particular, we show that the normalized difference between the [Formula: see text]th eigenvalue in the bulk, and the [Formula: see text]th zero of an appropriate orthogonal polynomial, is normally distributed in the bulk. This generalizes earlier work of Gustavsson and Zhang.
Effects of Oxidative Stress on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Biology
Authors: Denu Ryan A. , Hematti Peiman
Published: June 2016

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells present in most fetal and adult tissues. Ex vivo culture‐expanded MSCs are being investigated for tissue repair and immune modulation, but their full clinical potential is far from realization. Here we review the role of oxidative stress in MSC biology, as their longevity and functions are affected by oxidative stress. In general, increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibit MSC proliferation, increase senescence, enhance adipogenic but reduce osteogenic differentiation, and inhibit MSC immunomodulation. Furthermore, aging, senescence, and oxidative stress reduce their ex vivo expansion, which is critical for their clinical applications. Modulation of sirtuin expression and activity may represent a method to reduce oxidative stress in MSCs. These findings have important implications in the clinical utility of MSCs for degenerative and immunological based conditions. Further study of oxidative stress in MSCs is imperative in order to enhance MSC ex vivo expansion and in vivo engraftment, function, and longevity.
Refreshing Sleep and Sleep Continuity Determine Perceived Sleep Quality
Authors: Libman Eva , Fichten Catherine , Creti Laura , Conrod Kerry , Tran Dieu-Ly , Grad Roland , Jorgensen Mary , Amsel Rhonda , Rizzo Dorrie , Baltzan Marc , Pavilanis Alan , Bailes Sally
Published: June 2016

Sleep quality is a construct often measured, employed as an outcome criterion for therapeutic success, but never defined. In two studies we examined appraised good and poor sleep quality in three groups: a control group, individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, and those with insomnia disorder. In Study 1 we used qualitative methodology to examine good and poor sleep quality in 121 individuals. In Study 2 we examined sleep quality in 171 individuals who had not participated in Study 1 and evaluated correlates and predictors of sleep quality. Across all six samples and both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the daytime experience of feeling refreshed (nonrefreshed) in the morning and the nighttime experience of good (impaired) sleep continuity characterized perceived good and poor sleep. Our results clarify sleep quality as a construct and identify refreshing sleep and sleep continuity as potential clinical and research outcome measures.