bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic diversity and population structure of Sorghum mosaic virus infecting Saccharum spp. hybrids
Authors: Luo Q. , Ahmad K. , Fu H.‐Y. , Wang J.‐D. , Chen R.‐K. , Gao S.‐J.
Published: July 2016

Sugarcane mosaic disease is widespread in many countries and has been identified to be caused by Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV) and Sugarcane streak mosaic virus (SCSMV). Viral surveys of SCMV, SrMV and SCSMV were performed from 104 leaf samples of Saccharum spp. hybrid growing in China and two leaf samples in Myanmar. Sorghum mosaic virus was a major causal agent for sugarcane mosaic disease in China whereby 72.1% (75/104) of samples had SrMV infection alone, 6.7% (7/104) were mixed with SCMV and 17.3% (18/104) were mixed with SCSMV. Sugarcane streak mosaic virus infection alone occurred in 3.8% (4/104) of samples, but no single infections were observed for SCMV. Two viruses (SrMV and SCSMV) were detected in sugarcane mosaic samples in Myanmar. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that all of the SrMV isolates were clustered into three major lineages encompassing six phylogroups/genotypes based on the CP sequences (825 nucleotides) of 113 Chinese and 2 Burmese isolates from this study and 73 isolates reported worldwide. Six clearly distinct SrMV phylogroups (G1–G6) were formed and shared 74.3–94.1% nucleotide identity and 84.7–98.1% amino acid identity of CP sequences. SrMV‐G5 was identified to be new distinct phylogroup that was restricted to the Fujian and Guangxi provinces. The unique SrMV‐G6 phylogroup only occurred in Yunnan province. Insertion/deletion mutations, negative selection and frequent gene flow are factors driving the genetic evolution and population structure of SrMV in China.
Comparison of Four Views to Single‐view Ultrasound Protocols to Identify Clinically Significant Pneumothorax
Authors: Helland Gregg , Gaspari Romolo , Licciardo Samuel , Sanseverino Alexandra , Torres Ulises , Emhoff Timothy , Blehar David
Published: July 2016

Objective

Ultrasound (US) has been shown to be effective at identifying a pneumothorax (PTX); however, the additional value of adding multiple views has not been studied. Single‐ and four‐view protocols have both been described in the literature. The objective of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy of single‐view versus four‐view lung US to detect clinically significant PTX in trauma patients.

Methods

This was a randomized, prospective trial on trauma patients. Adult patients with acute traumatic injury undergoing computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest were eligible for enrollment. Patients were randomized to a single view or four views of each hemithorax prior to any imaging. USs were performed and interpreted by credentialed physicians using a 7.5‐Mhz linear array transducer on a portable US machine with digital clips recorded for later review. Attending radiologist interpretation of the chest CT was reviewed for presence or absence of PTX with descriptions of small foci of air or minimal PTX categorized as clinically insignificant.

Results

A total of 260 patients were enrolled over a 2‐year period. A total of 139 patients received a single view of each chest wall and 121 patients received four views. There were a total of 49 patients that had a PTX (19%), and 29 of these were clinically significant (11%). In diagnosis of any PTX, both single‐view and four‐view techniques showed poor sensitivity (54.2 and 68%) but high specificity (99 and 98%). For clinically significant PTX, single‐view US demonstrated a sensitivity of 93% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 64.1% to 99.6%) and a specificity of 99.2% (95% CI = 95.5% to 99.9%), with sensitivity of 93.3% (95% CI = 66% to 99.7%) and specificity of 98% (95% CI = 92.1% to 99.7%) for four views.

Conclusions

Single‐view and four‐view chest wall USs demonstrate comparable sensitivity and specificity for PTX. The additional time to obtain four views should be weighed against the absence of additional diagnostic yield over a single view when using US to identify a clinically significant PTX.
Viewpoint survey of mental health service users’ experiences of discrimination in England 2008–2014
Authors: Corker E. , Hamilton S. , Robinson E. , Cotney J. , Pinfold V. , Rose D. , Thornicroft G. , Henderson C.
Published: July 2016

Objective

Discrimination reported by mental health service users in England is high. The study aims to determine changes in mental health‐related discrimination from 2008 to 2014.

Methods

Samples of mental health service users were interviewed from 2008 to 2014 using the Discrimination and Stigma Scale version 12. Social capital in terms of access to social resources is a marker of discrimination in terms of effects on social connections, and so from 2011, social capital also measured using the Resource Generator‐UK.

Results

Fewer participants reported discrimination in one or more life areas in 2014 compared to 2008 (OR: 0.58, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.94 P = 0.03). A weighted multiple regression model found a decrease in overall discrimination in 2014 compared to 2008 (mean difference: −13.55, 95% CI: −17.32 to −9.78, P < 0.001). There was not a consistent in discrimination decline between each year. No differences in access to social resources were found.

Conclusions

Discrimination has fallen significantly over 2008–2014, although there was not a consistent decline between years. There is no evidence that social capital has increased.
Qualitative analysis of mental health service users’ reported experiences of discrimination
Authors: Hamilton S. , Pinfold V. , Cotney J. , Couperthwaite L. , Matthews J. , Barret K. , Warren S. , Corker E. , Rose D. , Thornicroft G. , Henderson C.
Published: July 2016

Objective

To better understand mental health service users’ experiences of stigma and discrimination in different settings.

Method

An annual telephone survey of people with a mental health diagnosis conducted to evaluate the Time to Change antistigma campaign in England. Of 985 people who participated in 2013, 84 took part in a qualitative interview which was audio recorded. Of these, 50 interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed to explore accounts of discrimination. We analysed common types of behaviour; motivations ascribed to the discriminators; expectations of what fair treatment would have been; and the impact of discrimination on participants.

Results

Discrimination was most common in five contexts: welfare benefits, mental health care, physical health care, family and friends. Participants often found it hard to assess whether a behaviour was discriminatory or not. Lack of support, whether by public services or by friends and family, was often experienced as discrimination, reflecting an expectation that positive behaviours and reasonable adjustments should be offered in response to mental health needs.

Conclusion

The impact of discrimination across different settings was often perceived by participants as aggravating their mental health, and there is thus a need to treat discrimination as a health issue, not just a social justice issue.
Reducing stigma in high school youth
Authors: Koller M. , Stuart H.
Published: July 2016

Objective

We evaluated 21 contact‐based education interventions in 5047 Canadian high school students and identified student characteristics associated with success.

Methods

We used a one‐group pretest/posttest design with standardized instruments to measure changes in behavioural intent. Variability across interventions was assessed using meta‐analysis, and a mixed‐effects logistic regression was used to identify student characteristics.

Results

Interventions were heterogeneous (I2 = 62.4%) but generally successful. The odds of getting an A grade was 2.57 times greater on the posttest than the pretest (95% CI = 2.18, 3.03). Males were less likely to achieve a passing score overall; however, males who self‐disclosed a mental illness were more likely to pass. Three percent of students experienced a large drop in social acceptance following the intervention. These were more likely to be male [OR = 1.5 (95% CI = 1.0, 2.1)].

Conclusion

Contact‐based education is a promising practice for reducing stigma in high school students, although the field would benefit from fidelity criteria to reduce variation across interventions. Males and females react differently to antistigma programming; particularly those with self‐reported mental illnesses and a small proportion may become more intolerant.
Individuals hospitalized with acute mania have increased exposure to antimicrobial medications
Authors: Yolken Robert , Adamos Maria , Katsafanas Emily , Khushalani Sunil , Origoni Andrea , Savage Christina , Schweinfurth Lucy , Stallings Cassie , Sweeney Kevin , Dickerson Faith
Published: July 2016

Objectives

We have preciously documented that many individuals with acute mania have immune activation. However, the sources of immune activation have not been identified. We investigated whether individuals hospitalized with acute mania have evidence of bacterial infections as determined by the prescription of systemic antimicrobial agents.

Methods

We assessed the recent prescription of systemic antimicrobial medications and the site of presumed bacterial infection in 234 individuals hospitalized for acute mania in either an inpatient unit or a day hospital. We also assessed individuals hospitalized for other psychiatric disorders (n=368) and controls (n=555). We employed logistic regression models to compare the rates of antibiotic prescription in individuals with the different diagnoses, employing demographic variables as covariates.

Results

We found that individuals hospitalized with acute mania had a substantially increased rate of recent antimicrobial prescription, defined as exposure within three days of ascertainment (adjusted odds ratio=5.5, 95% confidence interval: 2.2–14.1, P<.0002). Overall, a total of 18 of the 234 (7.7%) individuals hospitalized for acute mania were prescribed antibiotics as opposed to seven of 555 (1.3%) controls. The prescription of antibiotics was associated with being on an inpatient unit as opposed to being in the day hospital, and having increased mania symptom severity but not with other clinical ratings, demographic variables, or psychiatric medications. Hospitalization for other psychiatric disorders was not associated with the recent prescription of antimicrobial medications. The urinary tract was the most common site of infection in women, while the respiratory tract and mucosal surfaces were the most common sites in men.

Conclusions

Individuals hospitalized with acute mania have a markedly increased rate of bacterial infections, as evidenced by the recent prescription of antimicrobial agents. The prevention and effective treatment of bacterial infections may be important interventions for the management of individuals with mania.
Altruism predicts mating success in humans
Authors: Arnocky Steven , Piché Tina , Albert Graham , Ouellette Danielle , Barclay Pat
Published: July 2016

In order for non‐kin altruism to evolve, altruists must receive fitness benefits for their actions that outweigh the costs. Several researchers have suggested that altruism is a costly signal of desirable qualities, such that it could have evolved by sexual selection. In two studies, we show that altruism is broadly linked with mating success. In Study 1, participants who scored higher on a self‐report altruism measure reported they were more desirable to the opposite sex, as well as reported having more sex partners, more casual sex partners, and having sex more often within relationships. Sex moderated some of these relationships, such that altruism mattered more for men's number of lifetime and casual sex partners. In Study 2, participants who were willing to donate potential monetary winnings (in a modified dictator dilemma) reported having more lifetime sex partners, more casual sex partners, and more sex partners over the past year. Men who were willing to donate also reported having more lifetime dating partners. Furthermore, these patterns persisted, even when controlling for narcissism, Big Five personality traits, and socially desirable responding. These results suggest that altruists have higher mating success than non‐altruists and support the hypothesis that altruism is a sexually selected costly signal of difficult‐to‐observe qualities.
Visual Quantification of the Circle of Willis: An Automated Identification and Standardized Representation
Authors: Miao H. , Mistelbauer G. , Našel C. , Gröller M. E.
Published: July 2016

This paper presents a method for the visual quantification of cerebral arteries, known as the Circle of Willis (CoW). It is an arterial structure with the responsibility of supplying the brain with blood, however, dysfunctions can lead to strokes. The diagnosis of such a time‐critical/urgent event depends on the expertise of radiologists and the applied software tools. They use basic display methods of the volumetric data without any support of advanced image processing and visualization techniques. The goal of this paper is to present an automated method for the standardized description of cerebral arteries in stroke patients in order to provide an overview of the CoW's configuration. This novel representation provides visual indications of problematic areas as well as straightforward comparisons between multiple patients. Additionally, we offer a pipeline for extracting the CoW from Time‐of‐Flight Magnetic Resonance Angiography (TOF‐MRA) data sets together with an enumeration technique for labelling the arterial segments by detecting the main supplying arteries of the CoW. We evaluated the feasibility of our visual quantification approach in a study of 63 TOF‐MRA data sets and compared our findings to those of three radiologists. The obtained results demonstrate that our proposed techniques are effective in detecting the arteries and visually capturing the overall configuration of the CoW.
Occupational contact urticaria caused by food – a systematic clinical review
Authors: Lukács Judit , Schliemann Sibylle , Elsner Peter
Published: July 2016

Food industry workers are at increased risk for occupational contact urticaria (CU). There are many foodstuffs that have been reported to cause occupational CU, including seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruits. The aim of this review is to summarize all reported occupational cases of CU in the food industry. This is a systematic review based on a MEDLINE search of articles in English and German and a manual search, between 1990 and 2014, to summarize the case reports and case series of occupational CU in the food industry. Many different foodstuffs have been implicated in CU. Occupational CU has been reported in many different occupations, mostly in individuals dealing with seafood, meat, vegetables, and fruits, such as chefs, cooks, bakers, butchers, slaughterhouse workers, and fish‐factory workers. Foodstuffs that commonly induce occupational protein contact dermatitis include fish, seafood, meats, vegetables, and fruits. Food handlers may acquire CU resulting from occupational exposures. The prognosis varies widely. The diagnosis of immunological CU is based on the clinical history and on a positive prick test with the suspected substance and/or measurement of specific IgE.
A novel technique of introducing the mesh at the distal dissection while performing laparoscopic ventral rectopexy
Authors: Tsunoda A. , Takahashi T. , Ohta T. , Kusanagi H.
Published: July 2016

Aim

Laparoscopic ventral rectopexy (LVR) is considered an effective treatment for rectal prolapse and/or rectoanal intussusception. After the dissection of the rectovaginal septum down to the pelvic floor, a strip of mesh is introduced and should be secured as distally as possible. We have developed a novel technique of introducing the mesh at the distal dissection.

Method

A nylon thread with straight needle was passed through the posterior wall of vagina at the distal extent of the dissection, which was caught in the abdominal cavity and fixed at the end of the mesh extracorporeally. The mesh was then introduced, pulled toward the pelvic floor and settled at the pierced site by the perineal operator.

Results

Sixty‐eight female patients underwent LVR using this technique. There were no intra‐operative and postoperative mesh‐related complications. The mean distance from the vaginal ostium to the point of passing a nylon thread through the posterior wall of the vagina was 2 cm. Postoperative proctography showed the anatomical correction in 47 of the 48 patients who were examined.

Conclusion

The surgeon can confirm that the mesh is introduced and secured at the distal dissection by using this technique while performing LVR.
International Migration Policies: Should They Be A New G20 Topic?
Authors: Goldstein Andrea , Venturini Alessandra
Published: July 2016

International migration should be a core subject for global governance, given its transnational nature, and yet it is its “ugly duckling” and the global community has shied away from taking any concrete action to regulate cross‐border flows of people, at least until 2015, when the refugee crisis in the Mediterranean prompted Turkey to include migration in the Antalya agenda. It is unlikely that the international community will move beyond the current consensus based on humanitarian principles and recognize that the free flow of people is a right, on the same level as trade and capital liberalization. At the same time, much of the criticism of migration policies is misplaced: efforts should be focused on improving the implementation of existing policies and fine‐tune these policies in relation to entrance and integration, preferably in cooperation with the country of origin. The G20 should play a leading role in facilitating such coordination, also taking into account the increasing importance of South–South migration (such as the migration of Chinese citizens to Africa).
Diabetes and depression in Denmark 1996–2010: national data stratified by occupational status and annual income
Authors: Cleal B. , Panton U. H. , Willaing I. , Holt R. I. G.
Published: July 2016

Aims

To assess the socio‐economic distribution of comorbid depression and diabetes among the Danish workforce using national registry data.

Methods

Using national registers, all eligible Danish adults aged 18–59 years on 1 January 1996 were followed until 31 December 2010. Diabetes status was obtained from the Danish National Diabetes Register and information on purchase of prescription antidepressants from the Register of Medicinal Product Statistics. Data were also obtained on people's occupational status and gross annual income. The people included in the study were stratified according to their highest occupational group during the study period. Annual incomes were adjusted to 2013 levels and, using the distribution of the study population's incomes, we stratified participants into income quintiles.

Results

A total of 3 434 420 individuals met the inclusion criteria at baseline, with 98 006 developing diabetes during follow‐up. There were 603 498 new prescriptions of antidepressants during follow‐up; 19 849 (20.3%) among people with diabetes and 583 649 (17.5%) among those without. People with diabetes in all income quintiles (risk ratio 1.65; 95% CI 1.62–1.67) and all occupational groups (risk ratio 1.70; 95% CI 1.68– 1.73) had a significantly elevated risk compared with the general population. Risk ratios were significantly higher among the lowest occupational groups and income quintiles.

Conclusion

Our results provide robust data underlining the associations between diabetes, depression and socio‐economic status. They highlight and encourage further focus on the issue of comorbid diabetes and depression, particularly among the most disadvantaged.
Comparing macroecological patterns across continents: evolution of climatic niche breadth in varanid lizards
Authors: Lin Long‐Hui , Wiens John J.
Published: July 2016

Macroecological analyses often test hypotheses at the global scale, or among more closely related species in a single region (e.g. continent). Here, we test several hypotheses about climatic niche widths among relatively closely related species that occur across multiple continents, and compare patterns within and across continents to see if they differ. We focus on the lizard genus Varanus (monitor lizards), which occurs in diverse environments in Africa, Asia, and Australia. We address three main questions. 1) How do climatic niche breadths of species on a given niche axis change based on the position of species along that niche axis? (E.g. are species that occur in more extreme environments more narrowly specialized for those conditions?) 2) Are there trade‐offs in niche breadths on temperature and precipitation axes among species, or are niche widths on different axes positively related? 3) Is variation in niche breadths among species explained primarily by within‐locality seasonal variation, or by differences in climatic conditions among localities across the species range? We generate a new time‐calibrated phylogeny for Varanus and test these hypotheses within and between continents using climatic data and phylogenetic methods. Our results show that patterns on each continent often parallel each other and global patterns. However, in many other cases, the strength of relationships can change dramatically among closely related species on different continents. Overall, we found that: 1) species in warmer environments have narrower temperature niche breadths, but there is no relationship between precipitation niche breadth and niche position; 2) temperature and precipitation niche breadths tend to be positively related among species, rather than showing trade‐offs; and 3) within‐locality seasonal variation explains most variation in climatic niche breadths. Some of these results are concordant with previous studies (in amphibians and North American lizards), and might represent general macroecological patterns.
Comparative use of side and main channels by small‐bodied fish in a large, unimpounded river
Authors: Reinhold Ann Marie , Bramblett Robert G. , Zale Alexander V. , Roberts David W. , Poole Geoffrey C.
Published: July 2016

Ecological theory and field studies suggest that lateral floodplain connectivity and habitat heterogeneity provided by side channels impart favourable habitat conditions for lotic fishes, especially fluvial fishes dependent on large patches of shallow, slow velocity habitats for some portion of their life cycle. However, anthropogenic modification of large, temperate floodplain rivers has led to extensive channel simplification and side‐channel loss. Highly modified rivers consist of simplified channels in contracted, less dynamic floodplains.

Most research examining the seasonal importance of side channels for fish assemblages in large rivers has been carried out in heavily modified rivers, where side‐channel extents are substantially reduced from pre‐settlement times, and has often overlooked small‐bodied fishes. Inferences about the ecological importance of side channels for small‐bodied fishes in large rivers can be ascertained only from investigations of large rivers with largely intact floodplains. The Yellowstone River, our study area, is a rare example of one such river.

We targeted small‐bodied fishes and compared their habitat use in side and main channels in two geomorphically distinct types of river bends during early and late snowmelt runoff, and autumn base flow. Species compositions of side and main channels differed throughout hydroperiods concurrent with the seasonal redistribution of the availability of shallow, slow current‐velocity habitats. More species of fish used side channels than main channels during runoff. Additionally, catch rates of small fishes were generally greater in side channels than in main channels and quantitative assemblage compositions differed between channel types during runoff, but not during base flow. Presence of and access to diverse habitats facilitated the development and persistence of diverse fish assemblages in our study area.

Physical dissimilarities between side and main channels may have differentially structured the side‐ and main‐channel fish assemblages during runoff. Patches of shallow, slow current‐velocity (SSCV) habitats in side channels were larger and had slightly slower water velocities than SSCV habitat patches in main channels during runoff, but not during base flow.

Our findings establish a baseline importance of side channels to riverine fishes in a large, temperate river without heavy anthropogenic modification. Establishing this baseline contributes to basic fluvial ecology and provides empirical justification for restoration efforts that reconnect large rivers with their floodplains.
Moral Matters: De‐Romanticising Worker Agency and Charting Future Directions for Labour Geography
Authors: Hastings Thomas
Published: July 2016

The rise of labour geography over the last 20 years has ensured that labour politics, worker rights and employment‐related struggles have remained strong themes in economic geography. This article provides an updated review of labour geography's development, charting its expansion from an early focus on organised spatial ‘resistance’ at a range of scales, to a more varied project incorporating a wider range of analytical and empirical inquiries. Despite this progression the paper suggests that work is still needed to address a gap in moral considerations within labour geography as a whole. Specifically a moral economy approach is offered as a means of explaining the decision‐making processes/rationales behind worker actions in the context of particular struggles. This includes a necessary focus on less celebratory, ethical or successful forms of coping with labour market challenges on the part of workers than have typically been discussed in the case studies of labour geography.
Psychological predictors of participation in screening for cognitive impairment among community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Harada Kazuhiro , Lee Sangyoon , Shimada Hiroyuki , Lee Sungchul , Bae Seongryu , Anan Yuya , Harada Kenji , Suzuki Takao
Published: July 2016

Aim

Detecting cognitive impairment in the earlier stages is important for preventing or delaying dementia. To develop intervention strategies that promote screening for cognitive impairment, it is essential to identify the modifiable predictors for participation in screening. The present study examined whether participation in screening for cognitive impairment was predicted by the constructs of the health belief model, dementia worry and behavioral intentions to undergo screening among older adults.

Methods

The study used a prospective design. After a baseline questionnaire survey, participation in screening for cognitive impairment was followed for 6 months (n = 10 023). Participation in the screening, constructs of the health belief model (perceived susceptibility to dementia, perceived severity of dementia, perceived benefits of screening, perceived barriers to screening), dementia worry, behavioral intentions and demographic factors were measured.

Results

A path analysis showed that the behavioral intention to undergo screening (path coefficient = 0.29) directly predicted participation in screening for cognitive impairment, whereas other psychological and demographic factors did not directly predict participation. The behavioral intention was explained by the perceived benefits of screening (path coefficient = 0.51), perceived barriers to screening (path coefficient = −0.19) and perceived susceptibility to dementia (path coefficient = 0.16).

Conclusions

Participation in screening for cognitive impairment was positively predicted by higher behavioral intention to undergo screening. In turn, this behavioral intention was mainly predicted by the perceived benefits of screening among older adults. These findings suggest that emphasizing the perceived benefits and encouraging behavioral intentions might promote participation in screening for cognitive impairment. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2017; 17: 1197–1204.
Mass Fractions of Forty‐Six Major and Trace Elements, Including Rare Earth Elements, in Sediment and Soil Reference Materials Used in Environmental Studies
Authors: Fiket Željka , Mikac Nevenka , Kniewald Goran
Published: July 2016

Development of new techniques, enabling simultaneous determination of large numbers of elements in environmental samples, can force analysts to use certified reference materials that do not contain all the elements of interest. In this paper, the mass fractions of forty‐six major and trace elements, including rare earth elements (REE), are presented in one soil (NCS DC 77302 also known as GBW 07410) and five sediment (Metranal‐1, IAEA 405, MESS‐3, NCS DC 73309 also known as GBW 07311 and NCS DC 75301 also known as GBW 07314) certified reference materials determined by high resolution inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. The selected certified materials represent a spectrum of geological matrices often analysed in environmental studies. Measured elements include certified elements, elements listed with information values as well as new elements absent from certificates, including REEs and some other elements. REE + Y mass fractions in the river sediment reference material Metranal‐1 are reported for the first time. The results obtained are in agreement with available certified or information values.
Possible effects of ingested lead gunshot on populations of ducks wintering in the UK
Authors: Green Rhys E. , Pain Deborah J.
Published: July 2016

Although the use of lead ammunition for shooting wildfowl and/or over listed wetlands in the UK has been banned, c. 70% of ducks shot in England (the only UK country with compliance monitoring) are still shot with lead and the proportion of ducks found dead with signs of lead poisoning from ingested gunshot has not declined significantly since the ban. However, there is little quantitative evidence of the impacts of additional mortality from lead poisoning on duck populations. For the eight duck species that winter in freshwater habitats in the UK, we found that inter‐specific variation in mean population growth rate during the period 1990/1991 to 2013/2014 was significantly negatively correlated with two independent measures of the prevalence of ingested lead gunshot in the UK and Europe. This relationship was found for a wide range of different periods over which population growth was estimated, and also for annual growth rates in the period 1966/1967 to 2013/2014, derived from smoothed population trajectories. These findings support the hypothesis that ingested lead gunshot might affect population trend. An alternative hypothesis, that migratory short‐stopping driven by climate change affected trends in numbers of ducks wintering in the UK, was not supported by simple or partial correlation results. The possible impact of ingested lead gunshot on the Common Pochard Aythya ferina, a species listed as globally threatened, is of special concern.
Response surface analysis and extrusion process optimisation of maize–mungbean‐based instant weaning food
Authors: Ali Salim , Singh Baljit , Sharma Savita
Published: July 2016

This study was conducted to produce high‐quality weaning food from easily available and low‐cost raw materials by extrusion technology. Weaning mix was developed using extrudates of maize (Zea mays) and mungbean (Vigna radiata) flour with a twin‐screw extruder. Experiments were designed using three independent variables [feed moisture (12.6–19.4%), screw speed (349–601 rpm) and barrel temperature (108–192 °C)] and five dependent variables (specific mechanical energy, bulk density, water absorption index, water solubility index and degree of gelatinisation) at five levels of central composite rotatable design (CCRD). Optimisation results indicated that feed moisture of 14.33%, screw speed of 524 rpm and barrel temperature of 174 °C would produce maize–mungbean extrudates of preferable functional properties. The optimised weaning mix contained maize–mungbean extrudates 40%, skim milk powder 35% and sugar 25% (w/w). The nutrient content of the weaning mix was in accordance with the standards specified by PFA, (2004) with high protein and starch digestibility.
Developmental hemostasis: laboratory and clinical implications
Authors: Toulon P.
Published: July 2016

The pediatric hemostatic balance, which is different from that in adults, is an evolving process as the hemostatic system changes and matures throughout the time from fetal to adult life, particularly in the first months of life. The concept of developmental hemostasis was confirmed by several studies evaluating different patients’ population in various technical conditions. All these studies demonstrated that, at birth, the plasma levels of most coagulation factors were around half that found in adults, the preterm newborns having lower levels than full‐term newborns. Adult values were usually reached between a few months of age and up to above 16 years for specific parameters. If the global trends are consistent across the studies, differences in absolute values could be demonstrated that are likely due to differences in the reagents and/or the instruments used. Accordingly, it is recommended by the Perinatal and Pediatric Haemostasis Subcommittee of the Scientific and Standardization Committee of theISTHfor each laboratory to define the age‐dependent reference ranges using its own technical condition. The understanding of that concept of developmental hemostasis, which is now universally accepted, is critical to ensure optimal prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of thrombotic and hemorrhagic diseases in children. Actually, developmental hemostasis could affect the interaction between anticoagulant drugs and the coagulation system and so explain in part the discrepancy between anticoagulation in adults and in children. Finally, developmental hemostasis could probably provide a protective mechanism for neonates and children, contributing to the decreased risk of thrombosis and/or bleeding in these age‐groups.
Fiix‐prothrombin time monitoring improves warfarin anticoagulation outcome in atrial fibrillation: a systematic review of randomized trials comparing Fiix‐warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants to standard PT‐warfarin
Authors: Onundarson P. T. , Arnar D. O. , Lund S. H. , Gudmundsdottir B. R. , Francis C. W. , Indridason O. S.
Published: July 2016

Background

Monitoring warfarin with Fiix‐prothrombin time (Fiix‐PT), which is only affected by coagulation factors II and X, stabilizes anticoagulation and reduces thromboembolism compared to PT/INR monitoring. We compared outcome in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients treated with Fiix‐warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), or PT‐warfarin.

Methods

A systematic efficacy and safety assessment by retrieving data from the Fiix trial and the four major phase III DOAC trials in NVAF. Prespecified outcomes included stroke and systemic embolism (SSE), SSE and myocardial infarction (MI), major bleeding (MB), composite major vascular events (SSEMI and MB; CMVE), and deaths. We calculated relative risk, 95% CI, and 95% confidence limits (CL) for each outcome and performed meta‐analysis using fixed‐ and random‐effects modeling.

Results

There were 613 and 628 observation years with Fiix‐warfarin and PT‐warfarin in the Fiix trial, and 70 628 and 57 962 with DOACs and PT‐warfarin in DOAC trials. Populations were comparable although death rates were lower in the Fiix trial. Compared to pooled PT‐warfarin, Fiix‐warfarin reduced SSE (RR 0.54;95% CI 0.26–1.10/95% CL <1.00), SSEMI (0.51;0.26–0.99/<0.90), MB (RR 0.63;0.37–1.07/<0.99), and CMVE (RR 0.66;0.43–1.00/<0.94). Vascular death was lower (RR 0.13;0.04–0.47/<0.42). Compared to pooled DOACs, Fiix‐warfarin consistently had lower point estimates for the RR for efficacy and safety, but only significant for lower death rates (vascular death RR 0.14;0.04–0.49/<0.43). Meta‐analysis comparing Fiix‐warfarin and DOACs with PT‐warfarin consistently found Fiix‐warfarin to have the lowest point estimates for efficacy.

Conclusion

Monitoring warfarin with Fiix‐PT reduces risk of vascular events in NVAF patients as much as DOACs. Warfarin monitored with Fiix‐PT is an improved anticoagulant.
Not the end, my friend: Labour, the referendum result and the challenges that remain
Authors: Curtice John
Published: July 2016

Demographic divisions lay at the heart of the referendum vote, John Curtice shows, with stark lines between Labour's working‐class and middle‐class support. There may be little evidence that Corbyn was to blame for Remain's loss, he says, but that campaign nonetheless failed to address the underlying concerns of a big part of its electorate.
Push, don't nudge: How progressives should use the state to advance social change
Authors: McCarthy Helen
Published: July 2016

Helen McCarthy explores the synergies that exist between strong policy reforms and softer ‘nudge’ approaches to attitudinal change. As in the case of same‐sex marriages, she says, governmental action can at once both reflect and entrench shifts in social norms and behaviours.
Schottky–Richardson, Poole–Frenkel, and Space Charge Limited Current Mechanisms in M‐Type Sr(MnTi)xFe(12‐2x)O19 Ferrite
Authors: Singh Charanjeet , Narang Sukhleen Bindra , Jaroszewski Maciej , Bhikan Vikas , Kaur Pawandeep
Published: July 2016

The Static Current Density–Electric Field characteristics of Sr(MnTi)xFe(12‐2x)O19 ferrite compositions (x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0) have been investigated from 4.15 to 36.30 kV/m at room temperature. Ohmic and nonohmic regions are observed at low and high field regimes. The various models, governing nonlinear conduction, are discussed qualitatively in terms of Space charge limited current (SCLC), Ionic hopping, Poole–Frenkel, Schottky–Richardson, and Fowler–Nordheim mechanisms. The results depict Child‐Langmuir type SCLC in the investigated compositions.
Effects of Processing Parameters on the Deposition of Yttria Partially Stabilized Zirconia Coating During Suspension Plasma Spray
Authors: Chen Xiaolong , Kuroda Seiji , Ohnuki Takuma , Araki Hiroshi , Watanabe Makoto , Sakka Yoshio
Published: July 2016

The process–microstructure relationship in suspension plasma spray (SPS) of yttria partially stabilized zirconia (YSZ) has been studied experimentally. An ethanol‐based suspension with a powder loading of 25 wt% was plasma sprayed with radial injection under four different plasma conditions, to examine the effects of plasma gas composition (Ar/He ratio), secondary gas (Ar/He and Ar/H2), and the nozzle diameter of the plasma gun. The suspension feeding rate was optimized firstly and coatings were prepared for microstructural observation. Capturing of in‐flight particles into water as well as collection of splats formed on heated flat metal substrates were utilized in order to better understand the more complicated intermediate process steps in SPS. It was found that a plasma jet with higher momentum allowed a higher suspension flow rate and both columnar and deep vertically cracked structure could be created depending on the plasma parameters as well as the substrate surface roughness.
Precipitation and Optical Properties of CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots in Phosphate Glasses
Authors: Ai Bing , Liu Chao , Wang Jing , Xie Jun , Han Jianjun , Zhao Xiujian
Published: July 2016

CsPbBr3 quantum dots were precipitated in phosphate glasses through heat treatment. Controlled formation of CsPbBr3 quantum dots was realized by adjustment of heat‐treatment conditions. Absorption and photoluminescence spectra of CsPbBr3 quantum dots were tuned from 432 to 521 nm. Upon ultraviolet or blue light excitation, efficient photoluminescence from these CsPbBr3 quantum dots doped phosphate glasses was observed.
Associations between the parent–child relationship and adolescent self‐worth: a genetically informed study of twin parents and their adolescent children
Authors: McAdams Tom A. , Rijsdijk Fruhling V. , Narusyte Jurgita , Ganiban Jody M. , Reiss David , Spotts Erica , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Lichtenstein Paul , Eley Thalia C.
Published: July 2016

Background

Low self‐worth during adolescence predicts a range of emotional and behavioural problems. As such, identifying potential sources of influence on self‐worth is important. Aspects of the parent–child relationship are often associated with adolescent self‐worth but to date it is unclear whether such associations may be attributable to familial confounding (e.g. genetic relatedness). We set out to clarify the nature of relationships between parental expressed affection and adolescent self‐worth, and parent–child closeness and adolescent self‐worth.

Methods

We used data from the Twin and Offspring Study in Sweden, a children‐of‐twins sample comprising 909 adult twin pairs with adolescent children. Using these data we were able to apply structural equation models with which we could examine whether associations remained after accounting for genetic transmission.

Results

Results demonstrated that parent–child closeness and parental‐expressed affection were both phenotypically associated with adolescent self‐worth. Associations could not be attributed to genetic relatedness between parent and child.

Conclusions

Parent–child closeness and parental affection are associated with adolescent self‐worth above and beyond effects attributable to genetic relatedness. Data were cross‐sectional, so the direction of effects cannot be confirmed but findings support the notion that positive parent–child relationships increase adolescent self‐worth.
Neuropeptide Y expression in primary cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Pérez Tato B. , Juarranz Á. , Nájera L. , Mihm M.C. , Fernández P. , Gilaberte Y. , González S.
Published: July 2016

Background

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is involved in the carcinogenesis of different tumours, especially neural crest‐derived tumours.

Objective

The aim of our study is to investigate the expression of NPY on melanoma and its relation with prognostic histological parameters and survival.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of two independent series, with a total of 79 primary melanomas, diagnosed in two independent University Hospitals in Spain, from January 2000 to December 2004.

Results

We found a significant higher expression of NPY on superficial spreading melanoma and lentigo maligna (40%) (P = 0.030). Thinner tumours were associated with higher NPY expression (Clark level, P = 0.003; Breslow level, P = 0.012). Melanomas with low NPY expression were associated with intense cell proliferation (Ki‐67, P = 0.034), high density of peritumoral mast cell infiltrates (P = 0.033) and low E‐cadherin expression (P = 0.031). Melanomas with high NPY expression exhibited significant differences in terms of relapse time (median: 114 vs. 68 months, P = 0.008) and overall survival (114 vs. 74 months, P = 0.004).

Conclusion

High expression of NPY was associated with better prognostic histological parameters, low peritumoral mast cells density, presence of adhesion proteins and better outcome.
Nonablative fractional laser treatment for the skin in the eye area – clinical and cutometric analysis
Authors: Augustyniak Anna , Rotsztejn Helena
Published: July 2016

Objective

The purpose of the research was to evaluate skin elasticity and reduction in the aging eye area using a 1410‐nm nonablative fractional laser treatment, cutometric measurements and photographic documentation.

Material and methods

This study included 24 patients (21 women, three men), aged 33–50 years (the average age was 44.6) with Fitzpatrick skin type II and III. They received five successive treatment sessions with a 1410‐nm nonablative fractional laser in 2‐week intervals. Biomechanical properties of the skin were measured by using Cutometer (Courage+Khazaka electronic). Measurements of skin elasticity were made in three places of the eye area. A photographic documentation was used to compare changes after the series of treatment sessions. Additionally, the patients filled in a survey in which they were asked to make a self‐evaluation of the administered procedure.

Results

Cutometric analysis showed a significant improvement of skin elasticity. Changes in the measurements of R2 and R6 parameters indicate that the statistical significance level is mostly P < 0.0001 for the differences in the measurements. The analysis of clinical results of the therapy, using photographic documentation, showed a 47% decrease in the quantity and depth of wrinkles in the eye area.

Conclusions

A 1410‐nm nonablative fractional laser treatment seems to be an effective method aiming at reducing wrinkles in the eye area and improving tightness. Cutometric measurements provide invaluable help in the objective evaluation of the anti‐aging treatment and the photographic documentation is an excellent addition to the clinical analysis.
Linking educational diversity and team performance: Team communication quality and innovation team climate matter
Authors: Valls Víctor , González‐Romá Vicente , Tomás Inés
Published: July 2016

This study examines the influence of education level diversity on team communication quality and team performance. Specifically, we propose a moderated mediation model with team communication quality as a mediator in the relationship between education level diversity and team performance, and with innovation team climate as a moderator in this mediated relationship. The study sample consisted of 57 bank branches, and a lagged design with three data‐collection points was implemented. The results obtained showed that, as expected, innovation team climate moderated the relationship between education level diversity and team communication quality, as well as the indirect effect linking education level diversity, team communication quality, and team performance.

Practitioner points

This study informs team managers about the contingent influence of education level diversity on work teams' functioning that should be taken into account when forming and managing teams composed of individuals with different levels of formal education.

Education level diversity was found to influence team communication quality and performance positively when the level of innovation team climate was high, but negatively when it was low. Therefore, team managers should foster innovation climates in teams with members who have different levels of education.

The aforementioned influence of education level diversity was transmitted through intrateam communication quality. Therefore, team managers should enhance the latter variable within educationally diverse teams.
Posaconazole Pharmacokinetics in Healthy Cats after Oral and Intravenous Administration
Authors: Mawby D.I. , Whittemore J.C. , Fowler L.E. , Papich M.G.
Published: July 2016

Background

Posaconazole is the most active available azole antifungal drug, but absorption and pharmacokinetics are not available to guide dosing regimens in cats.

Objective

To determine the pharmacokinetics of posaconazole in cats given anIVsolution andPOsuspension.

Animals

Six healthy, adult research cats.

Methods

After a 12‐hour fast, each cat received 15 mg/kg of posaconazolePOsuspension with food. Four cats also received 3 mg/kgIVposaconazole after a 7‐day washout period. Plasma was collected at predetermined intervals for analysis using high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Concentration data were analyzed using a 2‐compartment pharmacokinetic analysis forIVadministration data and a 1‐compartment analysis with first‐order input forPOadministration data using Phoenix®software.

Results

AfterIVdosing, volume of distribution (VSS) was 1.9 (0.3) L/kg (mean, standard deviation), terminal half‐life (T½) was 57.7 (28.4) hours, and clearance was 28.1 (17.3)mL/kg/h. AfterPOdosing, peak concentration (CMAX) was 1.2 (0.5) μg/mLandT½was 38.1 (15.0) hours. Bioavailability ofPOsuspension was 15.9% (8.6). No adverse effects were observed with either route of administration.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Despite lowPOabsorption, these data allow for simulation ofPOdosage regimens that could be explored in clinical studies. Two regimens can be considered to maintain targeted trough concentrations of 0.5–0.7 μg/mLas extrapolated from studies in humans: (1) 30 mg/kgPOloading dose followed by 15 mg/kg q48h, or (2) 15 mg/kgPOloading dose followed by 7.5 mg/kg q24h.