bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes and cardiometabolic risk factors in Cambodia: Results from two screening studies
Authors: Wagner Julie , Naranjo Diana , Khun Touch , Seng Serey , Horn Ien S. , Suttiratana Sakinah C. , Keuky Lim
Published: May 2017

Background

Despite growing attention to diabetes throughout Asia, data from Southeast Asia are limited. This article reports rates of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity in Cambodia.

Methods

Two studies were conducted across different regions of Cambodia: (i) a 2012 screening study across urban, semi‐urban, and rural areas that used point‐of‐care capillary glucose for determination of diabetes (n = 13 997); and (ii) a 2005 epidemiological study with random selection from two main urban areas that used oral glucose tolerance tests for determination of diabetes (n = 1863). Blood pressure and anthropometrics were also measured.

Results

In the screening study, rates of diabetes were significantly higher in urban than rural sites, with intermediate rates in semi‐urban areas. There was a significant dose–response effect for urbanicity on overweight, obesity, and waist:hip ratio, with higher rates for urban versus semi‐urban and for semi‐urban versus rural locales. Rural sites had the lowest rates of hypertension, followed by urban and semi‐urban sites. Among people who screened positive for diabetes, there was a dose–response effect for urbanicity on undiagnosed diabetes; rates of previously undiagnosed diabetes were lowest in urban (51%), followed by semi‐urban (55%) and rural (67%) locales. Rural participants reported the highest rates of smoking and alcohol use. In the urban epidemiological study, prevalence rates of diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance were approximately 10%, indicating a prevalence of total glucose intolerance of approximately 20%.

Conclusions

In Cambodia, diabetes rates are high among urban residents and undiagnosed diabetes is highest among rural residents. A country‐wide public health response is urgently needed; as development continues, rates of diabetes are expected to rise.
β‐Cell function in postmenopausal women with isolated post‐challenge hyperglycemia
Authors: Hwu Chii‐Min , Lin Yi‐Chun , Lin Kuan‐Hung
Published: May 2017

Background

Isolated post‐challenge hyperglycemia (IPH) is an early stage of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with fasting glucose <126 mg/dL and 2‐h glucose ≥200 mg/dL. Observations of insulin secretion profile in subjects with IPH may provide an insight into the pathogenesis of T2DM in older women.

Methods

We recruited 555 naturally postmenopausal women without a history of T2DM to the present study. All participants received a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test to determine whether they had IPH. General linear models were used to compare differences in glucose metabolism among subjects.

Results

Early phase insulin responses to oral glucose were significantly decreased in women with IPH versus those with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and normal glucose tolerance (geometric mean [95% confidence interval] insulinogenic index 61 [54–79] vs 90 [83–97] and 105 [96–116], respectively;
P
 < 0.0001). In addition, there were significant decreases in late‐phase insulin release as metabolic status shifted from normal glucose tolerance to IGT to IPH. In the present cohort, the relative contribution of early insulin secretion to 2‐h glucose was no longer significant (
P
 = 0.15) after multiple factors, including indicators of insulin resistance and late‐phase insulin release, were entered into the regression model simultaneously.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that postmenopausal women with IPH are characterized by impaired β‐cell function. There were significant decreases in early and late‐phase insulin release as glucose intolerance escalated. Disturbance in β‐cell function seems to be an important factor associated with early T2DM in postmenopausal women.
Impact of Hospital “Best Practice” Mandates on Prescription Opioid Dispensing After an Emergency Department Visit
Authors: Sun Benjamin C. , Lupulescu‐Mann Nicoleta , Charlesworth Christina J. , Kim Hyunjee , Hartung Daniel M. , Deyo Richard A. , John McConnell K.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Washington State mandated seven hospital “best practices” in July 2012, several of which may affect emergency department (ED) opioid prescribing and provide a policy template for addressing the opioid prescription epidemic. We tested the hypothesis that the mandates would reduce opioid dispensing after an ED visit. We further assessed for a selective effect in patients with prior risky or chronic opioid use.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, observational analysis of ED visits by Medicaid fee‐for‐service beneficiaries in Washington State, between July 1, 2011, and June 30, 2013. We used an interrupted time‐series design to control for temporal trends and patient characteristics. The primary outcome was any opioid dispensing within 3 days after an ED visit. The secondary outcome was total morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) dispensed within 3 days.

Results

We analyzed 266,614 ED visits. Mandates were associated with a small reduction in opioid dispensing after an ED visit (–1.5%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = –2.8% to –0.15%). The mandates were associated with decreased opioid dispensing in 42,496 ED visits by patients with prior risky opioid use behavior (–4.7%, 95% CI = –7.1% to –2.3%) and in 20,238 visits by patients with chronic opioid use (–3.6%, 95% CI = –5.6% to –1.7%). Mandates were not associated with reductions in MMEs per dispense in the overall cohort or in either subgroup.

Conclusions

Washington State best practice mandates were associated with small but nonselective reductions in opioid prescribing rates. States should focus on alternative policies to further reduce opioid dispensing in subgroups of high‐risk and chronic users.
Altered secretion of Sertoli cells hormones in 2‐year‐old prepubertal cryptorchid boys: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hamdi S. M. , Almont T. , Galinier P. , Mieusset R. , Thonneau P.
Published: May 2017

In cryptorchid boys, failures in germ cell development have been clearly established. Some studies reported some abnormalities in Sertoli cells morphology but the results regarding their endocrine secretion remain controversial. To compare testicular hormone levels in young boys with and without cryptorchidism, we performed a cross‐sectional hospital‐based study. From surgery appointment records, we identified a case group of boys with unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism and a control group undergoing dental care, minor osteoarticular or dermal surgery. Blood samples were withdrawn during the surgical procedure to perform testosterone, inhibin B and anti‐müllerian hormone (AMH) immunoassays. We included 27 cryptorchid boys and 27 controls aged of 26.6 vs. 24.2 months, respectively (p = 0.172) far from the post‐natal mini‐puberty and the corresponding hormonal surges. Age‐adjusted AMH and inhibin B levels were significantly lower in cryptorchid than in control boys (AMH: 87 ng/mL vs. 135 ng/mL; p = 0.009, inhibin B: 97 pg/mL vs. 133 pg/mL; p = 0.019, respectively). Moreover, AMH and inhibin B levels were significantly lower in the bilateral cryptorchid subgroup, being 50% lower than in the controls (p = 0.011 and 0.019, respectively) and while both hormones levels were independent in controls, they became strongly correlated in bilateral cryptorchid boys (R² = 0.75, p = 0.001). In addition, testosterone levels were still detectable in some boys, with significantly lower levels in cryptorchid group than in controls. Overall, 2‐year‐old cryptorchid patients presented a simultaneous and significant drop in AMH and inhibin B levels, suggesting a functional defect of Sertoli cells. This deficiency appeared more pronounced in bilateral cryptorchidism and thus, regarding the pivotal role of Sertoli cells in germ cell development, it may explain the compromised fertility found later in men born with such a malformation.
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of the anticancer activity of 2‐amino‐aryl‐7‐aryl‐benzoxazole compounds
Authors: Khajondetchairit Patcharaporn , Phuangsawai Oraphan , Suphakun Praphasri , Rattanabunyong Siriruk , Choowongkomon Kiattawee , Gleeson Matthew Paul
Published: May 2017

A series of 2‐amino‐aryl‐7‐aryl‐benzoxazole derivatives have been designed, synthesized, and evaluated as anticancer agents. Fourteen of the compounds exhibited cytotoxic effects toward human A549 lung cancer cells. We found 12l was the most potent with an EC50 of 0.4 μm, equivalent to the anticancer drug doxorubicin, but had low selectivity following cross screening in monkey kidney Vero cells. Eight of the most potent or most selective compounds were further profiled in additional cell lines (MCF7, NCI‐H187, and KB) to better understand their cytotoxic activity. Only compound 12l had a measurable EC50 in a single cell line (3.3 μm in the KB cell line). Taken together, this data suggest the series as a whole display specific cytotoxicity toward A549 cells. Cheminformatics searches pointed to JAK2 as a possible target. A subset of compounds assayed at this target showed IC50s ranging from 10 to 0.08 μm; however, no clear correlation between JAK2 potency and A549 cytotoxicity was observed.
IDENTITY MANAGEMENT: WORKER INDEPENDENCE AND DISCRIMINATION AGAINST GAY MEN
Authors: Martell Michael E.
Published: May 2017

I build on a growing literature documenting wage differentials for gay men by showing that the wage differential gay men experience varies significantly across occupations with different levels of worker independence. The penalty is smallest in management and professional occupations, which involve a high level of worker independence. It is largest in service occupations, which include a lower level of independence. This distribution of earnings penalties is consistent with discrimination being the source of the gay wage penalty. The results support the conjecture that higher levels of independence allow gay men to more successfully manage the disclosure of sexual orientation and mediate the negative effects of discrimination. (JELJ3, J7, J15)
Diagnostic efficacy of cell block and immunocytochemistry in the diagnosis of a rare case of tumour‐to‐tumour metastasis
Authors: Garg R. , Koshy A. , Rajwanshi A.
Published: May 2017

The first reported case of breast cancer metastasis to a primary thyroid tumour diagnosed on FNAC and confirmed with immunocytochemistry, reinforcing the benefits and usefulness of cell blocks.
Breaking up sedentary time with seated upper body activity can regulate metabolic health in obese high‐risk adults: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: McCarthy Matthew , Edwardson Charlotte L. , Davies Melanie J. , Henson Joseph , Rowlands Alex , King James A. , Bodicoat Danielle H. , Khunti Kamlesh , Yates Thomas
Published: May 2017

Aims

To investigate the impact of performing short bouts of seated upper body activity on postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels during prolonged sitting.

Methods

Participants undertook two 7.5‐hour experimental conditions in randomized order: (1) prolonged sitting only and (2) sitting, interspersed with 5 minutes of seated arm ergometry every 30 minutes. Blood samples were obtained while fasting and throughout the postprandial period after ingestion of two standardized meals. The incremental area under the curve (iAUC) was calculated for glucose and insulin throughout each experimental condition. A paired samples t‐test was used to assess the difference in iAUC data between conditions for glucose (primary outcome) and insulin (secondary outcome).

Results

Thirteen obese adults (7 women, 6 men; mean ± standard deviation [s.d.] age: 66 ± 6 years; body mass index 33.8 ± 3.8 kg/m2) completed this investigation. Compared with the prolonged sitting‐only condition, the implementation of seated arm ergometry every 30 minutes significantly reduced mean blood glucose iAUC (from 7.4 mmol/L/h [95% confidence interval {CI} 5.2, 9.5] to 3.1 mmol/L/h [95% CI 1.3, 5.0]; P = .001). Significant reductions in mean insulin iAUC (from 696 mU/L/h [95% CI 359, 1032] to 554 mU/L/h [95% CI 298, 811]; P = .047) were also observed.

Conclusion

Performing short bouts of arm ergometry during prolonged sitting attenuated postprandial glycaemia despite maintaining a seated posture. This may have clinical significance for those with weight‐bearing difficulty who may struggle with postural change.
Anglo‐American trade costs during the first era of globalization: the contribution of a bilateral tariff series†
Authors: Varian Brian D.
Published: May 2017

Previous scholarship has suggested that British trade was generally unaffected by foreign tariffs during the period from 1870 to 1913. This article focuses specifically on Anglo‐American trade, which was the largest bilateral flow of trade during the first era of globalization, and finds that tariffs were the sole intertemporal determinant of Anglo‐American trade costs. However, the determinacy of tariffs for Anglo‐American trade costs only becomes apparent when the tariff variable incorporates a measure of the bilateral American tariff toward Britain, which this article reconstructs. The article concludes by claiming that Anglo‐American trade represents a major qualification to any emerging consensus that foreign tariffs were of minor significance to the trade of late nineteenth‐century Britain.
Lasting improvement of medication‐overuse headache after brief intervention – a long‐term follow‐up in primary care
Authors: Kristoffersen E. S. , Straand J. , Russell M. B. , Lundqvist C.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

Withdrawal therapy improves the headache situation for many patients with medication‐overuse headache (MOH), but relapses are common. The objective was to assess the long‐term effectiveness of a general practitioner conducted brief intervention (BI) for MOH.

Methods

Sixty MOH patients initially participating in a blinded cluster‐randomized controlled trial evaluating BI versus business as usual (BAU) were followed up for 16 months. Follow‐up was open after 6 months. Headache and medication days per month were evaluated in three groups: BI early (BI throughout the study, n = 24), BI late (initial BAU, then cross‐over to BI, n = 22) and BAU throughout the study (n = 14).

Results

Fifty‐five of 60 initially included patients completed the follow‐up. The mean change over 16 months’ observation in the BI early group was a reduction of 8.4 (5.4–11.4) headache and 13.5 (9.6–17.3) medication days per month. The relapse rate into medication overuse was 8.3%. Patients in the BI late group also improved significantly after a BI. BAU showed no significant improvement.

Conclusions

Treatment for MOH in primary care through a BI is a simple intervention with lasting effects and low relapse rate. This approach may be a logical first step in MOH treatment, and referral should generally be reserved for primary care non‐responders.
European Academy of Neurology/European Association for Palliative Care Taskforce on Neurology Consensus recommendations on palliative care for patients with chronic and progressive neurological disease – acceptability for Belgian neurologists
Authors: Vanopdenbosch L. J. , Maes E. , Oliver D. J.
Published: May 2017

Background and purpose

A Consensus document on palliative care and neurology has made recommendations on the care of people with chronic and progressive neurological disease. This study aimed to investigate whether these recommendations are understood by, acceptable to and used in practice by neurologists in Belgium.

Methods

An online survey was undertaken of 100 neurologists in Belgium, asking for their opinion on all of the recommendations in the Consensus document.

Results

Sixty‐four of the neurologists replied. Overall, they expressed support for the recommendations, in particular open communication with patients, open assessment of patient and family needs, and discussion of dying. There was less understanding of the role of palliative care in the implementation of palliative care early in disease progression and the role of palliative care multidisciplinary teams.

Conclusions

The survey shows that many of the recommendations in the European Academy of Neurology/European Association for Palliative Care Taskforce on Neurology Consensus document are understood by neurologists, and several are now seen as part of normal clinical practice. However, there is still a need to develop a more collaborative approach between neurology and palliative care services, for the benefit of patients and families.
Influence of turning parameters on the high‐temperature fatigue performance of Inconel 718 superalloy
Authors: Galatolo R. , Fanteria D.
Published: May 2017

The safety‐critical rotating parts of aircraft engines are mainly designed using experimental material data, based on standard specimens and procedures, while few data are available on the effect of manufacturing anomalies on fatigue life. In this context, the paper investigates the effects of different machining parameters on the high‐temperature fatigue resistance of Inconel 718 superalloy specimens, cut from engine disk forgings, machined by turning on a vertical lathe. An unconventional specimen was designed in order to have the machining marks aligned with the fatigue loading axis, so to reproduce the hoop stresses in engine disks. For the test campaign, three machining parameters were chosen (depth of cut, cutting speed and insert wear) that typically may generate non‐geometrical anomalies. A correlation has been found between the machining parameters, the residual stresses, the surface roughness, and the distorted and amorphous layer thicknesses. Correlations of such data with fatigue life are also presented and discussed.
Morphology of the female reproductive system of three dorippid crabs (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Dorippidae) and the role of accessory cuticle structures associated with seminal receptacles
Authors: Vehof Juliane , Scholtz Gerhard , Becker Carola
Published: May 2017

The reproductive systems of crabs reveal characters of considerable importance for the understanding of brachyuran phylogeny and evolution. The Dorippoidea show several plesiomorphic characters within Eubrachyura and similarities to podotreme crabs. Hence, they are often considered as an early diverging lineage, sometimes even as the sister group to all remaining eubrachyurans. Due to their role as prime candidates for putative plesiomorphic characters of the reproductive system of the Eubrachyura, we compared the morphology of the vaginae, seminal receptacles, and ovaries of three dorippid species using histological methods, micro‐computed tomography, and 3‐D reconstructions. Despite the putative phylogenetic position of dorippids, the female reproductive system shows features that are regarded as derived characters in eubrachyurans, including a concave vagina and a ventral‐type seminal receptacle. In contrast to other eubrachyurans, the oviduct does not enter the seminal receptacle directly but through specific cuticular valves. The female reproductive systems of Dorippe sinica and Dorippe quadridens are remarkable in further aspects. The seminal receptacles of both species are completely cuticle‐lined and have accessory sperm storage structures, the bursae. Our findings on the morphology of the female reproductive system of dorippids with its unique combination of basal, derived, and new characters challenges the prevailing hypothesis on the evolution of sperm storage organs in Eubrachyura.
Reproduction of Jun‐red glazes with nano‐sized copper oxide
Authors: Zhu Congxu , Wang Yabing , Lu Qiang , Zhao Hongxiao , Zhu Xuliang , Fa Wenjun , Zheng Zhi
Published: May 2017

Nano sized copper oxide was firstly employed for producing Jun‐red glazes. A series of Jun‐red glazes were prepared by adjusting the copper oxide nanoparticle content and the valance state of elemental copper in the glaze matrix. The coloring and microstructure of each glaze was investigated by spectrophotometer, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer, and transmission electron microscope. Under reducing conditions, the red glaze color gradually darkens with increasing CuO content from 0.5 to 1.0 wt%. Interestingly, the coloring of the samples fired under reducing atmosphere turned to be green‐blue, when the content of nanosized CuO was increased to 1.5 wt%. We also found that increased CuO content increases the size of phase separation in the glazes. As comparison, the coloring of samples fired without nanosized CuO are slightly blue under reducing atmosphere, which is attributed to the structural color generated owing to the Rayleigh scattering. Red color of the Jun glazes may arise from elemental copper nanoparticles. The current research utilizing modern nanotechnology provides a new insight into both the “furnace transmutation” and “color regulating” of the ancient Jun‐red glazes.
Joint evolution of differential seed dispersal and self‐fertilization
Authors: Iritani R. , Cheptou P.‐O.
Published: May 2017

Differential seed dispersal, in which selfed and outcrossed seeds possess different dispersal propensities, represents a potentially important individual‐level association. A variety of traits can mediate differential seed dispersal, including inflorescence and seed size variation. However, how natural selection shapes such associations is poorly known. Here, we developed theoretical models for the evolution of mating system and differential seed dispersal in metapopulations, incorporating heterogeneous pollination, dispersal cost, cost of outcrossing and environment‐dependent inbreeding depression. We considered three models. In the ‘fixed dispersal model’, only selfing rate is allowed to evolve. In the ‘fixed selfing model’, in which selfing is fixed but differential seed dispersal can evolve, we showed that natural selection favours a higher, equal or lower dispersal rate for selfed seeds to that for outcrossed seeds. However, in the ‘joint evolution model’, in which selfing and dispersal can evolve together, evolution necessarily leads to higher or equal dispersal rate for selfed seeds compared to that for outcrossed. Further comparison revealed that outcrossed seed dispersal is selected against by the evolution of mixed mating or selfing, whereas the evolution of selfed seed dispersal undergoes independent processes. We discuss the adaptive significance and constraints for mating system/dispersal association.
HP30‐2, a mitochondrial PRAT protein for import of signal sequence‐less precursor proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rossig Claudia , Gray John , Valdes Oscar , Rustgi Sachin , von Wettstein Diter , Reinbothe Christiane , Reinbothe Steffen
Published: May 2017

Chloroplasts and mitochondria contain a family of putative preprotein and amino acid transporters designated PRAT. Here, we analyzed the role of two previously characterized PRAT protein family members, encoded by At3g49560 (HP30) and At5g24650 (HP30‐2), in planta using a combination of genetic, cell biological and biochemical approaches. Expression studies and green fluorescent protein tagging identified HP30‐2 both in chloroplasts and mitochondria, whereas HP30 was located exclusively in chloroplasts. Biochemical evidence was obtained for an association of mitochondrial HP30‐2 with two distinct protein complexes, one containing the inner membrane translocase TIM22 and the other containing an alternative NAD(P)H dehydrogenase subunit (NDC1) implicated in a respiratory complex 1‐like electron transport chain. Through its association with TIM22, HP30‐2 is involved in the uptake of carrier proteins and other, hydrophobic membrane proteins lacking cleavable NH2‐terminal presequences, whereas HP30‐2's interaction with NDC1 may permit controlling mitochondrial biogenesis and activity.
Influence of packaging and product information on consumer perception of cosmetic creams—A case study
Authors: Gámbaro Adriana , Roascio Antonella , Boinbaser Lucía , Parente Emma
Published: May 2017

The influence of packaging and packaging elements on consumer perception of cosmetic creams was studied. Two groups, each consisting of 100 respondents, rated five face skin care creams (one of which was imported) and evaluated the unpackaged and the packaged product, respectively. Respondents rated each sample in terms of overall liking and provided a description of sample attributes by means of a check‐all‐that‐apply (CATA) question. Packaging elements like product composition, product information, and brand image influenced both overall liking ratings and the choice of attributes used by respondents to describe the samples. Interestingly, the sheer presence of certain packaging elements elicited mention of a greater number of attributes, which were not always claimed on the packaging. These results clearly suggest a stimulating effect of packaging on the perception of consumers.

Practical applications

This work provides information about the importance of packaging in consumers' perception of cosmetic creams. Packaging may provide information that leads consumers to focus on certain sensory attributes of products (such as odor and texture) even when these are not claimed explicitly. The choice of packaging elements can lead to either an improved or an impoverished appraisal of a cream's attributes and ultimately determine its commercial acceptability.
Phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of Candida albicans isolates from bloodstream and mucosal infections
Authors: Mandelblat Marina , Frenkel Michael , Abbey Darren , Ben Ami Ronen , Berman Judith , Segal Esther
Published: May 2017

The interaction of Candida albicans with the host is of a complex nature involving fungal factors and host's response. In this study, we concentrated on the phenotypic expression of virulence attributes and genotypic characteristics of C. albicans isolates from two distinct clinical entities of candidiasis—blood stream and vaginal infections, and the possible role of these factors. Hence, we conducted a comparative in vitro assessment of virulence characteristics, including adhesion to epithelial cells and HaCat cell line, biofilm formation, aspartic proteinases and phospholipase activity of 20 C. albicans isolates from patients with C. albicans bloodstream infection and 22 isolates from patients with C. albicans vaginitis. Further, we studied the epigenetic phenotypic switching of the strains and their ploidy, by flow cytometry and CHEF techniques. These studies indicated that although no overall differentiation between the isolates of the two groups (bloodstream infection and vaginitis) could be demonstrated, several characteristics were more specific to one of the groups than the other. While the strains from vaginal infection had higher capacity to adhere, the strains from patients with bloodstream infection had higher activity of phospholipase. Differences were also noted in phenotypic switching, with the strains from bloodstream infection revealing primarily the “white” type colonies, known to be more virulent, and had higher DNA content. This study is unique considering the concurrent comparison of isolates from different clinical entities, at the phenotypic and genotypic level.
The clinical significance of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction and hypercontractile esophagus in high resolution esophageal manometry
Authors: Schupack D. , Katzka D. A. , Geno D. M. , Ravi K.
Published: May 2017

Background

Although major manometric abnormalities, the significance of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) and hypercontractile esophagus (HE) is poorly understood. We sought to determine long term outcomes for EGJOO and HE.

Methods

High‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) studies conducted from 5/30/2012 to 8/1/2014 consistent with EGJOO and HE and normal studies from 5/30/12 to 11/1/12 were identified. Standardized follow up was conducted with a phone survey utilizing the impact dysphagia questionnaire (IDQ‐10).

Key Results

56 EGJOO, 40 HE patients and 33 controls were identified. Structural evaluation with EGD and esophagram did not differ among groups. Use of opiates in EGJOO (P<.05) and of anticholinergics in EGJOO and HE patients was more prevalent than in controls (P<.005). Dysphagia was more common in EGJOO (P<.05) and chest pain more common in HE (P<.005) at presentation. While HE patients were more likely to be symptomatic (P<.05), the majority of EGJOO and HE patients overall were asymptomatic at a mean 2.8 years follow up without medical or procedural intervention in the majority (72.5%). Symptom persistence at follow up was predicted by maximum distal contractile integral (DCI) and IRP in both EGJOO and HE (P<.05).

Conclusions & Inferences

The majority of patients with EGJOO and HE appear to have a benign clinical course similar to controls in the absence of specific treatment. However, the combination of abnormal IRP and DCI in both HE and EGJOO appears to discriminate an important subset of patients who may benefit from treatment. Further refinement of manometric criteria may therefore provide more useful clinical definitions of EGJOO and HE.
Practice Patterns of Dermatologists in the Pediatric Contact Dermatitis Registry
Authors: Jacob Sharon E. , Lipp Michael B. , Suh Eric , Goldenberg Alina
Published: May 2017

Background/Objectives

U.S. adults and children are equally likely to have allergic contact dermatitis. Historically the narrow geographic location of data‐reporting providers has quantitatively and qualitatively limited the pediatric contact dermatitis data. The Pediatric Contact Dermatitis Registry was used to evaluate self‐identified pediatric patch test providers within the United States with regard to demographic characteristics, geographic location, and practice patterns.

Methods

A wide range of U.S. providers were invited to join the registry by completing a secure online 11‐question registration survey.

Results

There were 252 respondents from 50 states and the District of Columbia; 28.6% were pediatric dermatologists and members of the Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD), and 38% were members of the American Contact Dermatitis Society. The cumulative range of pediatric patch‐test evaluations performed each year was 1,726 to 4,613 children. SPD members had a significantly greater likelihood of performing a commercially available patch test (odds ratio 7.14 [95% confidence interval 5.11, 9.97], p < .001) than those who were not SPD members. SPD members also had significantly lower odds of performing North American Contact Dermatitis Group standard tests than nonmembers.

Conclusions

The frequency of patch test evaluations in children is significantly underreported. This study provides insight into the practice patterns of various providers who are patch testing children and makes recommendations for evidence‐based modifications regarding these practices. Limitations of the study include survey responder selection bias and small sample size.
Acral Plexiform Palisaded Encapsulated Neuromas as the Initial Cutaneous Manifestation of Cowden Syndrome
Authors: Harris Elizabeth , Mir Adnan
Published: May 2017

Cowden syndrome (CS) is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis associated with characteristic mucocutaneous findings of facial trichilemmomas, palmoplantar keratoses, sclerotic fibromas, and oral papillomas. Mucocutaneous neuromas have also been reported in association with CS. We describe a patient with CS whose sole cutaneous finding was palisaded encapsulated neuromas (PENs) with a plexiform growth pattern in an acral location. Along with previous reports, this case suggests that acral plexiform PENs may be an early, highly specific finding in CS and highlights the importance of screening these patients for PTEN mutation.
Astaxanthin as feed supplement in aquatic animals
Authors: Lim Keng Chin , Yusoff Fatimah Md. , Shariff Mohamed , Kamarudin Mohd Salleh
Published: May 2017

Astaxanthin is a high value keto‐carotenoid pigment renowned for its commercial application in various industries comprising aquaculture, food, cosmetic, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical. Among the verified bio‐resources of astaxanthin are red yeast Phaffia rhodozyma and green alga Haematococcus pluvialis. The supreme antioxidant property of astaxanthin reveals its tremendous potential to offer manifold health benefits among aquatic animals which is a key driving factor triggering the upsurge in global demand for the pigment. Numerous scientific researches devoted over a number of years have persistently demonstrated the instrumental role of astaxanthin in targeting several animal health conditions. This review article evaluates the current best available evidence to judge the beneficial usage of astaxanthin in aquaculture industry. Most apparent is the profound effect on pigmentation, where astaxanthin is frequently utilized as an additive in formulated diets to boost and improve the coloration of many aquatic animal species, and subsequently product quality and price. Moreover, the wide range of other physiological benefits that this biological pigment confers to these animals is also presented which include various improvements in survival, growth performance, reproductive capacity, stress tolerance, disease resistance and immune‐related gene expression.
Armeggerie, wedding chests and battles in fifteenth‐century Florence
Authors: Nethersole Scott
Published: May 2017

In fifteenth‐century Florence, poets, composers and furniture painters all represented battles in their work. Staged battles, in the form of armeggerie, were also played out on the streets and in the squares of the Renaissance city. This article examines what links these bellicose representations, by paying particular attention to festival battles and cassone frontals. It considers two case studies: an armeggeria organized by Bartolomeo Benci in honour of Marietta Strozzi in 1464, and a pair of wedding chests ordered to celebrated the marriage of Piero Vettori to Caterina Rucellai around the same date. It concludes that battaglie encoded socio‐political alliances and that they were all understood as representational, whether painted or performed.
Genetic signatures coupled with lineage shift characterise endemic evolution of Dengue virus serotype 2 during 2015 outbreak in Delhi, India
Authors: Choudhary Manish Chandra , Gupta Ekta , Sharma Shvetank , Hasnain Nadeem , Agarwala Pragya
Published: May 2017

Objective

In 2015, New Delhi witnessed a massive outbreak of Dengue virus (DENV) resulting in high morbidity and mortality. We report the molecular characterisation of the dominant circulatingDENVstrain to understand its evolution and dispersal.

Materials and methods

DENVinfections were diagnosed by detection of IgM/NS1 antigen, and serotyping was performed by C‐PrMPCR. Envelope gene was amplified, and variation(s) in envelope gene were analysed. Phylogenetic tree construction, time‐based phylogeny and origin ofDENVwere analysed. Site‐specific selection pressure of envelope gene variants was analysed.

Results

ConfirmedDENVinfection was observed in 11.34% (32 of 282) cases, whilePCRpositivity for C‐PrM region was observed in 54.16% (13 of 24) ofNS1 antigen‐positive cases. All samples belonged to serotype 2 and cosmopolitan genotype. Phylogenetic analysis using envelope gene revealed segregation of cosmopolitan genotype strains into specific lineages. The Indian strains clustered separately forming a distinct monophyletic lineage (lineageIII) with a signature amino acid substitution viz., I162V and R288K. Selection pressure analysis revealed that 215D, 288R and 304K were positively selected sites. The rate of nucleotide substitution was 6.93 × 10−4substitutions site‐1 year‐1 with time to most common ancestor was around 10 years withJX475906 (Hyderabad strain) andJN030345 (Singapore strain) as its most probable ancestor.

Conclusion

We observed evolution of a distinct lineage ofDENV‐2 strains on the Indian subcontinent with possible changes in endemic circulating dengue strains that might give rise to more pathogenic strains.
Index case finding facilitates identification and linkage to care of children and young persons living with HIV/AIDS in Malawi
Authors: Ahmed Saeed , Sabelli Rachael A. , Simon Katie , Rosenberg Nora E. , Kavuta Elijah , Harawa Mwelura , Dick Spencer , Linzie Frank , Kazembe Peter N. , Kim Maria H.
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Evaluation of a novel index case finding and linkage‐to‐care programme to identify and link HIV‐infected children (1–15 years) and young persons (>15–24 years) to care.

Methods

HIV‐infected patients enrolled in HIV services were screened and those who reported untested household members (index cases) were offered home‐ or facility‐based HIV testing and counselling (HTC) of their household by a community health worker (CHW). HIV‐infected household members identified were enrolled in a follow‐up programme offering home and facility‐based follow‐up by CHWs.

Results

Of the 1567 patients enrolled in HIV services, 1030 (65.7%) were screened and 461 (44.8%) identified as index cases; 93.5% consented to HIV testing of their households and of those, 279 (64.7%) reported an untested child or young person. CHWs tested 711 children and young persons, newly diagnosed 28 HIV‐infected persons (yield 4.0%; 95% CI: 2.7–5.6), and identified an additional two HIV‐infected persons not enrolled in care. Of the 30 HIV‐infected persons identified, 23 (76.6%) were linked to HIV services; 18 of the 20 eligible for ART (90.0%) were initiated. Median time (IQR) from identification to enrolment into HIV services was 4 days (1–8) and from identification to ART start was 6 days (1–8).

Conclusions

Almost half of HIV‐infected patients enrolled in treatment services had untested household members, many of whom were children and young persons. Index case finding, coupled with home‐based testing and tracked follow‐up, is acceptable, feasible and facilitates the identification and timely linkage to care of HIV‐infected children and young persons.
Re-directing Climate Change and Terrorism by Allying Classical with Quantum Neural Computing
Authors: Cassella Antonio
Published: May 2017

Before the turn of the 21st century, terrorism and climate change may cause the breakdown of civilization. The cause of this advancing upheaval is the disparity between scientific ascent and social descent. This paper explores the social values hidden in sacred texts and artistic masterpieces through a debatable view of an impaired capacity for renewing familiar reality in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as an impaired ability to preserve shared beliefs in Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders (SSD). The author posits that we will overcome the challenges unleashed by fundamentalism and global warming if we bolster the alliance of a) our quantum capacity for renovating shared knowledge with our classical ability to preserve it and of b) our appreciation of beauty with a humanistic use of science.
A Developmental Study on Evaluating the Performance of Preschool Education Institution Teachers with 360 Degree Feedback
Authors: Dagal Asude Balaban , Zembat Rengin
Published: May 2017

In accordance with the subject of this research, three different scales to measure preschool teachers’ performances with respect to school principals’, parents’ and children’s point of view were developed for the research. 51 principals, 893 parents and 256 children participated in the research.“Teacher Performance Evaluation Scale – Administrators’ Form” (TPESAF), “Teacher Performance Evaluation Scale – Parents’ Form” (TPESPF) and “Teacher Performance Evaluation Scale – Children’s Form” (TPESCF) are the scales that were prepared and used by the researcher. The data obtained were analysed by “SPSS 13 for Windows”. The main results of the research are as follows: Research, an exploratory factor analysis was carried out for each of the scales developed. In order to show the validity of the scales, the overall and sub-test content validity analysis and differentiation power of the (TPESAF), (TPESPF) and (TPESCF) were calculated. Following the factor analysis which gave the scales their final shape, statistical reliability analysis was carried out. In this study, Cronbach Alpha coefficients of the (TPESAF), (TPESPF) and (TPESCF) and their sub-tests’ means and standard deviations were calculated. Furthermore the test re-test reliability analysis was carried out. The scales were found to be reliable according to the reliability analysis (Cronbach Alpha Coefficients of Principal’s Form: 0,94, Parents’ Scale: 0,93, Children’s Scale: 0,84).
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Smith Robert
Published: May 2017

Journal of Education and Training Studies (JETS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JETS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 6Adrienne Barnes, Florida State University, USAAngelina Wilson, North-West University, South AfricaAntónio Calha, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, PortugalArlene Kent-Wilkinson, University of Saskatchewan, CanadaCarmen Pérez-Sabater, Universitat Poltècnica de València, SpainDilek Sevimli, Cukurova University, TurkeyDonna Smith, The Open University, UKEnisa Mede, Bahcesehir University, TurkeyGökhan Arastaman, Hacettepe University, TurkeyHilmi Demirkaya, Akdeniz University, TurkeyHülya Aslan Efe, Dicle Üniversitesi, TurkeyIoannis Syrmpas, University of Thessaly, GreeceKun-Hsi Liao, Taiwan Shoufu University, TaiwanLaima Kyburiene, Kaunas University of Applied Sciences, LithuaniaLorna T. Enerva, Polytechnic University of the Philippines, PhilippinesMehmet Akif Ziyagil, Mersin University, TurkeyMehmet Güllü, İnonu University, TurkeyMetin Argan, Anadolu University, TurkeyMuhammad Qasim Ali, Institute of Social Sciences, PakistanMu-hsuan Chou, Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages, TaiwanMustafa Cin, Giresun University, TurkeyNiveen M. Zayed, MENA College of Management, JordanPirkko Siklander, University of Lapland, FinlandRui Manuel Carreteiro, National Institute of Psychology and Neurosciences, PortugalSabri Kaya, TurkeySadia Batool, Preston University Islamabad, PakistanSait Akbaşli, Hacettepe University, TurkeySarthou Nerina Fernanda, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, ArgentinaSerdar Orhan, Fırat University, TurkeySerkan Boyraz, Aksaray Üniversitesi, TurkeyStamatis Papadakis, University of Crete, GreeceYoung Mudavanhu,University of Exeter, UKRobert SmithEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Journal of Education and Training StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://jets.redfame.com
Statistical Properties of Round, Square, and Elliptic Jets at Low and Moderate Reynolds Numbers
Authors: Aleyasin Seyed Sobhan , Tachie Mark Francis , Koupriyanov Mikhail
Published: May 2017

An experimental study was conducted to investigate the effect of nozzle geometries on the statistical properties of free orifice jets at low and moderate Reynolds numbers. The studied cross sections were round, square, and ellipses with aspect ratios of 2 and 3. For each jet, detailed velocity measurements were made using a particle image velocimetry (PIV) system at Reynolds numbers of 2500 and 17,000. The results showed that at both Reynolds numbers, the elliptic jets had relatively higher velocity decay and jet spreading; however, the nozzle geometry effects were more pronounced at Re = 17,000 than at Re = 2500. Analysis of the swirling strength revealed that the rotational motions induced by vortices within the minor planes of the elliptic jets were stronger than observed in the major planes, square and round jets which were consistent with the relatively higher spreading observed in the minor planes. It was observed that the streamwise locations of the switchover points were independent of Reynolds number but are a strong function of aspect ratio. Based on the present results and those documented in the literature, a linear correlation was proposed for the location of axis-switching in orifice jets. Due to the axis-switching phenomena, a sign change was observed in the distribution of the Reynolds shear stress in the major planes of the elliptic jets. This results in the existence of regions with negative eddy viscosity in the near field regions, an observation that has an important implication for the predictive capabilities of standard eddy viscosity models.
Development of Highly Efficient Combined Polishing Method for Single-Crystal Silicon Carbide
Authors: Kurita Tsuneo , Miyake Koji , Kawata Kenji , Ashida Kiwamu , Kato Tomohisa
Published: May 2017

The aim of this research is to develop a combined polishing technology for single-crystal silicon carbide (SiC) wafers, which is known to be difficult to process due to its high hardness. This paper proposes a combined polishing method based on converting SiC into a material with a relatively low hardness and then polishing this material using abrasive particles with a higher hardness. An electrochemical technique was tried to reduce the hardness of SiC. The effectiveness of the combined technique is experimentally demonstrated. In addition, the temporal changes of the thickness of SiO2 layer and the relationship between the electrochemical machining current and the thickness of SiO2 layer are shown.
A Time-Delayed Hyperchaotic System Composed of Multiscroll Attractors With Multiple Positive Lyapunov Exponents
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Chunhua , Zhou Ling
Published: May 2017

The paper proposes a time-delayed hyperchaotic system composed of multiscroll attractors with multiple positive Lyapunov exponents (LEs), which are described by a three-order nonlinear retarded type delay differential equation (DDE). The dynamical characteristics of the time-delayed system are far more complicated than those of the original system without time delay. The three-order time-delayed system not only generates hyperchaotic attractors with multiscroll but also has multiple positive LEs. We observe that the number of positive LEs increases with increasing time delay. Through numerical simulations, the time-delayed system exhibits a larger number of scrolls than the original system without time delay. Moreover, different numbers of scrolls with variable delay and coexistence of multiple attractors with a variable number of scrolls are also observed in the time-delayed system. Finally, we setup electronic circuit of the proposed system, and make Pspice simulations to it. The Pspice simulation results agree well with the numerical results.
Modeling and Analysis of a Precise Multibeam Flexural Pivot
Authors: Hongzhe Zhao , Dong Han , Shusheng Bi
Published: May 2017

The center shift, a common problem existing in rotating flexural pivots, is diminished in a multibeam flexural pivot by the internal interaction among these beams. The objectives of this paper are to develop a model for this flexural pivot and to analyze the interaction. First, the calculus of variations with a Lagrange multiplier is exploited to develop the model based on energy approach. Then, the properties of a conservative system are utilized to analyze the constraint characteristics of these beams, and two different load sequences are taken into account to formulate the rotating stiffness of the flexural pivot. The three methods that are used to develop the same model are compared to show their respective advantages, and the analysis of the internal constraints offers several significant qualitative and quantitative design insights. Furthermore, the circular arc motion is expanded to the elliptic arc motion, and an approximate replacement is therefore presented. Furthermore, the circular arc motion is expanded to the elliptic arc motion, and an approximate replacement is therefore presented.