bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric ammonia alters lipid metabolism‐related genes in the livers of broilers (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Sa R. N. , Xing H. , Luan S. J. , Sun Y. B. , Sun C. Y. , Zhang H. F.
Published: December 2017

Atmospheric ammonia in animal housing is reported to have adverse effects on livestock performance and animal health. Previous experiments have found that 75 ppm ammonia reduced the production performance and altered body fat distribution quality of broilers. In this study, we examined the body fat distribution, serum metabolites and lipid metabolism gene expression of broiler exposed to ammonia. A total of 400 chickens were randomly allocated to four groups with four replicates and received ammonia treatments at 0, 25, 50 and 75 ppm, respectively, for 3 weeks. The average daily feed intake and weight gain were decreased when broiler was exposed to ammonia concentration exceeding 50 ppm (p < .05). The increased abdominal fat and reduced thickness of subcutaneous adipose were found in broilers of 75 ppm group (p < .05). When ammonia exceeded 50 ppm, the content of fat in breast muscle of broiler was increased, and when ammonia was higher than 25 ppm, the fat in liver was increased (p < .05). It showed that the fat content in liver was a sensitive index for broilers exposed to ammonia. Furthermore, ammonia exposure had no significant effect on total cholesterol and triglyceride in serum, but significantly increased the relative mRNA expression of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (p = .046) and malic enzyme in liver (p = .038), which indicated that ammonia exposure may increase the de novo fat synthesis in liver. In addition, ammonia increased the high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = .02) and activity of hepatic lipase in serum (p < .001), which indicated that ammonia exposure may improve the transportation of cholesterol to liver. To conclude, our results indicated that ammonia exposure might increase the de novo fat synthesis in liver and increased the transportation of cholesterol to liver. In addition, the concentration of ammonia in poultry house should be limited lower than 25 ppm based on the variation of hepatic fat content.
Kinetics of solutes and particles of different size in the digestive tract of cattle of 0.5–10 years of age, and relationships with methane production
Authors: Grandl F. , Schwarm A. , Ortmann S. , Furger M. , Kreuzer M. , Clauss M.
Published: December 2017

The digestive physiology of cattle is characterised by comparatively long digesta mean retention times (MRTs), a particle sorting mechanism (difference in MRTs of large vs. small particles) and a distinct digesta washing (difference in MRTs between particles and fluids) in the reticulorumen (RR). How these processes mature during ontogeny, and how they link to other digestion characteristics and methane production, is largely unknown. We used a set of passage markers (Co‐EDTA for fluids and hay particles of 2, 5 and 8 mm length mordanted with Cr, La and Ce, respectively) to measure MRTs in 12 heifers (0.5–2.1 years; hay only) and two groups of 15 lactating cows (2.4–10.0 years; forage‐only vs. forage‐concentrate diet). The MRTs differed between markers (Co < Cr < La < Ce) and were longer in heifers than cows, consistent with the lower feed intake in heifers. MRTs were mostly similar between cow groups and increased with age. Digesta washing was not affected by group, age, feed intake and number of chews per unit of feed. The degree of digesta washing was not related to CH4 measures. Particle sorting was more prominent in cows than heifers but did not differ between cow groups or change with age in cows. This could be the consequence of the abrupt increase in intake from heifers to cows at a time when gut capacity is not yet fully developed; particle sorting might then clear smaller particles from the RR sooner allowing a higher intake. Surprisingly, CH4 yield per ingested feed did not correlate with MRTs, and CH4 yield per unit of digested fibre decreased with increasing MRTs and with increasing fibre digestibility. As this pattern occurred in heifers and both cow groups, it appeared independent of age, indicating a mechanism that has not been described in the literature so far and requires further investigation.
Effect of competition and landscape characteristics on mesocarnivore cohabitation in badger setts
Authors: Tammeleht E. , Kuuspu M.
Published: December 2017

Mesocarnivores are becoming increasingly influential in ecosystems due to the ongoing loss of large carnivores. However, interactions within mesocarnivore communities remain poorly understood. We studied how competitive coexistence influences cohabitation of badgers (Meles meles) with other European mesocarnivores, and badger habitat selection at sett site and sett environ scales (within a 700 m radius buffer). We used data on the location and use of 234 badger setts in a 39 000 km2 area of mainland Estonia (Northern Europe) to assess the importance of sett occupancy by badgers, the regional abundance of other mesocarnivores (fox/raccoon dog), bedrock complex and landscape in explaining the presence of other mesocarnivores at badger setts. We also compared data from observed setts and random locations to study sett site selection. Setts where foxes or raccoon dogs were present had a lower proportion of active badger entrances and were more likely to be found in forests of agricultural areas, compared with setts where these species were absent. Sett locations tended to occur more frequently in older meso‐ and eutrophic forests on sandy soils. Badgers tended to avoid human infrastructure at sett locations and in the sett environ when selecting sett locations. Our results reveal the influence of habitat fragmentation and competitive relationships on cohabitation between terrestrial carnivores.
Arterialized collateral capillaries progress from nonreactive to capable of increasing perfusion in an ischemic arteriolar tree
Authors: Gouin Kenneth H. , Hellstrom Sara K. , Clegg Lindsay E. , Cutts Josh , Mac Gabhann Feilim , Cardinal Trevor R.
Published: December 2017

Objective

CCA, outward remodeling of capillaries that anastomose 2 arteriolar trees with different parent feed arteries, may represent a therapeutic target for patients who lack collaterals. ACCs can reperfuse an ischemic tree, but their functional capacity is unknown. Therefore, we determined whether ACCs mature into resistance vessels that regulate blood flow following arterial occlusion.

Methods

We ligated the lateral spinotrapezius feed artery in Balb/C mice, which induces CCA. At days 7 and 21 following occlusion, we measured vasodilation of ACCs using intravital microscopy and blood flow in the ischemic tree using LSF. We determined the presence of ACCs and neurovascular alignment with immunofluorescence.

Results

At day 7, ACCs do not vasodilate following muscle contraction and have reduced responses to endothelial‐ and smooth muscle‐dependent agents. By day 21, ACCs exhibit normal vasodilation, accompanied by normalized increases in relative blood flow to the ischemic zone. Although functioning as resistance vessels by regulating blood flow, ACCs do not appear to be innervated.

Conclusions

ACCs mature into resistance vessels that regulate blood flow to the downstream tissue. Therefore, induction of mature ACCs may be a target for reducing ischemia in patients who lack collateral networks.
Tinea faciei in a central Portuguese hospital: A 9‐year survey
Authors: Borges Ana , Brasileiro Ana , Galhardas Célia , Apetato Margarida
Published: December 2017

Tinea faciei is a relatively uncommon dermatophytosis that affects the glabrous skin of the face. The aim of this study was to analyse the epidemiologic, clinical and mycological features of tinea faciei cases diagnosed at the Dermatology and Venereology Department of Hospital Santo António dos Capuchos (Lisbon, Portugal). Consecutive cases diagnosed between 2008 and 2016 were studied retrospectively. A total of 72 tinea faciei cases have been diagnosed, involving 37 male and 35 female, aged between 8 months and 86 years. The majority were observed in patients younger than 12 years of age (59.72%). Anthropophilic isolates (mainly Microsporum audouinii, Trichophyton soudanense and Trichophyton rubrum) accounted for 75.7% of the identified dermatophytes. One quarter of the patients were also affected by dermatophytosis in other areas, such as the scalp. Only 10 cases were previously treated with topical steroids due to misdiagnosis. Most patients were treated with topical and systemic antifungal therapy with total resolution of skin lesions, without relapse or side effects. In contrast to other European studies, anthropophilic dermatophytes were the main causative agents of tinea faciei. As previously described to tinea capitis, this result is probably due to changes in the epidemiology of dermatophytes worldwide.
Cryptococcosis and cryptococcal meningitis: New predictors and clinical outcomes at a United States academic medical centre
Authors: Kashef Hamadani Bahar H. , Franco‐Paredes Carlos , McCollister Bruce , Shapiro Leland , Beckham J. David , Henao‐Martínez Andrés F.
Published: December 2017

As the diagnosis of cryptococcosis is challenging in low‐prevalence settings, uncovering predictive factors can improve early diagnosis and timely treatment. The aim of the study was to relate clinical outcomes to predictive variables for the presence of cryptococcosis. A retrospective case‐control study matched by collection date, age and gender at a 1:2 ratio (55 cases and 112 controls) was performed in case patients diagnosed with Cryptococcus infection at the University of Colorado Hospital between 2000 and 2017 (n = 167). A bivariate and a forward, stepwise multivariable logistic regression model were performed to identify predictors of cryptococcosis infection. In an adjusted multivariable model, cryptococcal infection was significantly associated with the presence of respiratory symptoms, hyponatremia, lung disease or corticosteroids. Additionally, cryptococcal meningitis was associated with headaches, corticosteroids or increased CSF protein. Conversely, a reduced risk of cryptococcosis was associated with hypertension or peripheral monocytosis. Cryptococcal meningitis leads to subsequent hearing impairment (16% vs 4% (control), P = .013), muscle weakness (40% vs 20%, P = .021), cognitive deficits (33% vs 6%, P = .0001) or any adverse outcome (84% vs 29%, P = .0001). We uncovered novel clinical predictors for the presence of cryptococcal infection or cryptococcal meningitis. This study in patients at a low‐prevalence US medical centre underscores the importance of early diagnosis in this population.
Development of a modified swallowing screening tool to manage post‐extubation dysphagia
Authors: Christensen Martin , Trapl Michaela
Published: December 2017

Post‐extubation dysphagia is a condition that is becoming a growing concern. The condition occurs in 3–62% of extubated patients and can be related to mixed aetiologies, such as neuromuscular impairment, critical illness and laryngeal damage. The risk factors for developing dysphagia in critically ill patients are under‐diagnosed and perhaps underestimated. Recent studies recommend the implementation of a standardized swallowing screen to prevent aspiration and decrease pneumonia rate and mortality. The aim of this quality improvement initiative was the development of a bedside swallowing screening tool to assess effective swallowing post‐endotracheal extubation. Post‐extubation dysphagia can result in a delay in re‐feeding, with the potential for malnutrition as well as overt and covert aspiration if swallowing is not effectively screened. It is apparent that ICU nurses commence the initial screen for swallowing in the absence of an evidence base of care. A review of current local and international practice guidelines excludes the process of an effective swallowing screen of the extubated patient. Previously, a referral to speech and language therapists would be required to assess swallowing only after an initial review by the ICU medical team. This often leads to delays if the referral is made outside normal working practice, such as weekends or evenings. The initial development of a swallowing screening tool is the first step to promoting a nurse‐led/‐initiated bedside swallow screening tool that will enhance patient care and patient safety. There is growing body of evidence regarding the incidence of post‐extubation dysphagia. Currently, there are very few recognized bedside swallowing screening tools to identify patients at risk. The most serious complication associated with post‐extubation dysphagia is aspiration pneumonia, which is the leading cause of nosocomial infection in the critically ill patient.
Uncertainty and the Great Recession
Authors: Born Benjamin , Breuer Sebastian , Elstner Steffen
Published: December 2017

Has heightened uncertainty been a major contributor to the Great Recession and the slow recovery in the United States? To answer this question, we identify exogenous changes in six uncertainty proxies and quantify their contributions to GDP growth and the unemployment rate. The answer is no. In total we find that increased macroeconomic and financial uncertainty can explain up to 10% of the drop in GDP at the height of the recession and up to 0.6 percentage points of the increased unemployment rates in 2009 through 2011. Our calculations further suggest that only a minor part of the rise in popular uncertainty measures during the Great Recession was driven by exogenous uncertainty shocks.
Role of ultrasound guided epidural anesthesia for lower limb surgery in children with previously repaired meningomyelocele
Authors: Ponde Vrushali C. , Bedekar Vinit V. , Chavan Dilip , Gursale Anuya , Shah Dipal
Published: December 2017

Background

Children that have had a meningomyelocele repair often present for hip and bilateral lower limb surgeries. Due to vertebral, epidural, and nerve root abnormalities, placement of epidural catheter is difficult.

Aims

We aim to describe the potential role of ultrasound in delineating the most appropriate intervertebral space for central neuroaxial blocks in these patients.

Methods

Twelve children with previous meningomyelocele repair, in the age group of 6‐12 years posted for hip or bilateral lower limb surgeries were included. After induction of anesthesia, an ultrasound scan was done with the patient in the left lateral position. The central neuroaxial block was performed in the most appropriate intervertebral space seen on transverse scan of spine. These patients were studied with regard to visibility of the osseous framework of the spine, the anterior and posterior dural complexes, ease of insertion of catheter, evidence of dural puncture, and possibility of identification of the extent of peri‐incisional fibrosis.

Results

One case required 2 attempts. There was no evidence of dural puncture. We could confirm the soft tissue shadow, the osseous framework, and the anterior and posterior dural complexes in all 12 patients. Ultrasonography guided in selecting the most appropriate space for epidural catheter placement.

Conclusion

Ultrasound guidance aids in identification of normal intervertebral space and explicitly shows the abnormal space. It can be used as an aid to differentiate between normal and abnormal space in post‐meningomyelocele repair.
Relationship between anxious temperament and harm avoidance in medical students and staff
Authors: Shirahama Masanao , Terao Takeshi , Ishii Nobuyoshi , Hatano Koji , Hirakawa Hirofumi , Kohno Kentaro
Published: December 2017

Aim

In order to resolve the equivocal relationship between anxious temperament rated by the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego‐Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS‐A) and harm avoidance rated by the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), the present study aimed to investigate whether the anxious temperament scale and the harm avoidance scale are significantly associated with adjustment of relevant factors. Our hypothesis was that anxious temperament might be associated with harm avoidance.

Methods

From the database of our previous studies, the data of 111 healthy subjects who had both TCI and TEMPS‐A scores were extracted for the present study. Two multiple regression analyses were performed: one to predict variance in anxious temperament scores without and with harm avoidance scores, and relevant factors; and another to predict variance in harm avoidance scores without and with anxious temperament scores, and relevant factors.

Results

Anxious temperament was significantly and positively associated with depressive temperament, irritable temperament, and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression whereas harm avoidance was significantly and negatively associated with hyperthymic temperament, novelty seeking, persistence, and self‐directedness, although both were significantly and positively associated with each other.

Conclusion

These findings support our hypothesis and suggest that anxious temperament may have ‘depressive proneness’ whereas harm avoidance may have ‘passive proneness.’
Application of a modified diabetes prevention program with adolescents
Authors: Geria Kimberly , Beitz Janice M.
Published: December 2017

Objective

The purpose of this study was to increase type 2 diabetes (T2DM) awareness and decrease T2DM risk factors by examining effectiveness of a modified version of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) with adolescents.

Design and Sample

A quasi‐experimental one‐group, pretest/posttest design was used to determine impact of the modified DPP on adolescents. Study intervention was incorporated into the health education curriculum at a public charter school and implemented over 11 weeks. Study sample included primarily African‐American and Hispanic adolescents (N = 101) aged 13–18 attending the public charter school in a New Jersey urban community.

Measures

Instrumentation included valid, reliable measures of self‐efficacy for healthy eating, physical activity, food knowledge, and healthy food choices. Participants’ pretest/posttest waist circumference and body mass index (BMI) were collected.

Results

Outcomes revealed significant (p < .001) increase in participants’ food knowledge, self‐efficacy for choosing healthy foods and performing physical activity, healthy food choices, and amount of weekly aerobic exercise. Reductions in BMI and waist circumference were statistically significant (p < .05).

Conclusions

A modified DPP adapted for adolescents’ learning needs lowered risk for T2DM. Implications for clinical practice, education, and research are posed.
Participation of delta annexin A3 in the ribosomal protein S19 C‐terminus‐dependent inhibitory mechanism of the neutrophil C5a receptor through delta lactoferrin
Authors: Yamanegi Koji , Yamada Naoko , Nakasho Keiji , Nishiura Hiroshi
Published: December 2017

Although C5a receptor (C5aR) interacting with its agonist C5a promotes acute inflammation during the initiation phase, the roles of the recycling C5aR during the resolution phase are still unclear. We found that C5aR interacted with its antagonist/agonist ribosomal protein S19 (RP S19) polymer or a RP S19 polymer functional analogue S‐tagged C5a/RP S19, which connects an RP S19 C‐terminus (IAGQVAAANKKH) to the S‐tagged C5a C‐terminus, promoted acute inflammation at the resolution phase via an activation of the apoptosis‐inducing transcription factor delta lactoferrin (δLf) in neutrophils and the membrane mobilizing factor full‐length annexin A3 (ANXA3) in macrophages. To confirm the antagonistic system of the recycling C5aR, S‐tagged δLf‐coupled BrCN‐activated Sepharose 4B beads were incubated with cytoplasmic proteins and identified a neutrophil‐specific δANXA3 via pull‐down experiments. The S‐tagged C5a/RP S19‐induced agonistic functions in macrophage‐like cells that were differentiated from human promyelocytic leukemia HL‐60 cells by phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13‐acetate were suppressed by δLf and δANXA3 co‐overexpression. δANXA3 seems to participate in the antagonistic system of the neutrophil C5aR involving IAGQVAAANKKH and δLf. Most likely, δANXA3 works as antagonist for the recycling C5aR on neutrophils during the resolution phase of acute inflammation.
Big Data Analytics in Operations Management
Authors: Choi Tsan‐Ming , Wallace Stein W. , Wang Yulan
Published: December 2017

Big data analytics is critical in modern operations management (OM). In this study, we first explore the existing big data‐related analytics techniques, and identify their strengths, weaknesses as well as major functionalities. We then discuss various big data analytics strategies to overcome the respective computational and data challenges. After that, we examine the literature and reveal how different types of big data methods (techniques, strategies, and architectures) can be applied to different OM topical areas, namely forecasting, inventory management, revenue management and marketing, transportation management, supply chain management, and risk analysis. We also investigate via case studies the real‐world applications of big data analytics in top branded enterprises. Finally, we conclude the study with a discussion of future research.
Implementing ecological intensification in fish farming: definition and principles from contrasting experiences
Authors: Aubin Joël , Callier Myriam , Rey‐Valette Hélène , Mathé Syndhia , Wilfart Aurélie , Legendre Marc , Slembrouck Jacques , Caruso Domenico , Chia Eduardo , Masson Gérard , Blancheton Jean Paul , Ediwarman  , Haryadi Joni , Prihadi Tri Heru , de Matos Casaca Jorge , Tamassia Sergio T.J. , Tocqueville Aurélien , Fontaine Pascal
Published: December 2017

Ecological intensification is a new concept in agriculture that addresses the double challenge of maintaining a level of production sufficient to support needs of human populations and respecting the environment in order to conserve the natural world and human quality of life. This article adapts this concept to fish farming using agroecological principles and the ecosystem services framework. The method was developed from the study of published literature and applications at four study sites chosen for their differences in production intensity: polyculture ponds in France, integrated pig and pond polyculture in Brazil, the culture of striped catfish in Indonesia and a recirculating salmon aquaculture system in France. The study of stakeholders’ perceptions of ecosystem services combined with environmental assessment through Life Cycle Assessment and Emergy accounting allowed development of an assessment tool that was used as a basis for co‐building evolution scenarios. From this experience, ecological intensification of aquaculture was defined as the use of ecological processes and functions to increase productivity, strengthen ecosystem services and decrease disservices. It is based on aquaecosystem and biodiversity management and the use of local and traditional knowledge. Expected consequences for farming systems consist of greater autonomy, efficiency and better integration into their surrounding territories. Ecological intensification requires territorial governance and helps improve it from a sustainable development perspective.
Rural–urban human capital disparity and skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China
Authors: Pi Jiancai , Zhang Pengqing
Published: December 2017

This paper builds three‐sector general equilibrium models to investigate how a shrink of rural–urban human capital disparity generates an impact on skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China. In the basic model where the urban skilled sector and the urban unskilled sector have no upstream and downstream linkage, we find that the wage inequality will be narrowed down if the urban skilled sector is more capital intensive than the urban unskilled sector. To capture the characteristic of China's state capitalism, we build an extended model where the urban skilled sector acts as an upstream industry for the urban unskilled sector, and find that the wage inequality will be reduced if the substitution elasticity of unskilled labor and intermediate product in the urban unskilled sector is large enough. When we consider the factual characteristics of the Chinese economy, our models predict that a shrink of rural–urban human capital disparity will be helpful to reduce the skilled–unskilled wage inequality in China.
Systemic Risks Spillovers and Interdependence among Stock Markets: International Evidence with Covar‐Copulas
Authors: Boako Gideon , Alagidede Paul
Published: December 2017

Empirical studies have provided ample evidence on the potential benefits of international diversification with portfolios that consist of both domestic and foreign assets. This coupled with sudden and periodic crashes in global and developed equity markets have stimulated the interest of investors to diversify across markets that have the potential to provide decorrelation with global markets during turbulent periods. At the same time, international diversification may intensify cross‐border listing of stocks with its antecedent implication of shocks transmission. The above have engendered renewed interest among researchers to explore the dependence levels and spillover effects of shocks among emerging and developed equity markets. This paper examines tail dependence structure and (extreme) systemic risks spillover effects among international equity markets using advanced econometric techniques that underpin the modelling of asset returns. We find evidence of low positive significant dependencies between all African markets and their developed counterparts, except for Egypt. Although no evidence of spillover effects to the markets in Africa was found, both unidirectional and bi‐directional causality between some African and developed equity markets is found, albeit with differences. We are unable to ascribe the dynamics in the causality structure to level of market integration. It is inferred that the degree of individual local markets interdependence with developed counterparts may reflect the relative size, liquidity and degree of foreign investors' participation.
Towards a theorization of the relationship between poverty and family
Authors: Daly Mary
Published: December 2017

This article aims to contribute to theorizing and research about the processes and relationships connecting families and poverty. The aim is to undertake a thought exercise to identify possible relationships and interactions between family and poverty. In existing poverty research practice, a simplified view of both individuals and families is presupposed by, first, the reduction of family to household; and, second, treating the household as nothing more than a unit size and composition. Drawing from existing research on both poverty and families in everyday life, the article offers two core insights. First, it suggests that poverty scholarship needs to take specific account of the processes of resource and income transformation that are associated with family living. Second, these processes are not necessarily functional or confined to the material, but encompass normative and moral agency associated with family membership. Both act to mediate poverty‐related and other outcomes. The article also suggests some conceptual and methodological refinements to take these issues forward in future research.
Mitochondrial DNA multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction inhibition assay for quality control of pathogen inactivation by ultraviolet C light in platelet concentrates
Authors: Kim Sinyoung , Handke Wiebke , Gravemann Ute , Döscher Andrea , Brixner Veronika , Müller Thomas H. , Seltsam Axel
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Several ultraviolet (UV) light‐based pathogen inactivation (PI) technologies for platelet (PLT) products have been developed or are under development. Upon implementation of PI technologies, quality control measures are required to ensure consistent efficiency of the treatment process. Previous reports showed that amotosalen/UVA and riboflavin/UV‐based PI technologies induce modifications of the PLT‐derived mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) that can be detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) inhibition assays. In this study, we sought to establish a PCR inhibition assay to document the impact of ultraviolet C (UVC) treatment with the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system on the mitochondrial genome in PLT concentrates (PCs).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A multiplex real‐time PCR inhibition assay with simultaneous short‐amplicon (143 bp) and long‐amplicon (794 bp) amplification was developed to detect mtDNA modifications in PLTs after UVC treatment. Assay performance was tested in UVC‐treated and untreated, plasma‐reduced pooled PCs, and apheresis PCs and challenged using PCs manufactured for a clinical trial under routine‐like conditions.

RESULTS

UVC illumination of PLTs resulted in dose‐dependent inhibition of mtDNA amplification for the larger amplicon. Amplification of the shorter amplicon was not affected by UVC treatment. Evaluation of 283 blinded apheresis and pooled PLT samples from routine‐like PC production resulted in prediction of UVC treatment status with 100% accuracy.

CONCLUSION

The proposed dual‐amplicon size real‐time mtDNA PCR assay effectively detects nucleic acid damage induced by UVC illumination of PLTs and could be useful as an informative indicator of PI quality of the THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets system.
Financial vulnerability and export dynamics
Authors: Jaud Melise , Kiendrebeogo Youssouf , Véganzonès‐Varoudakis Marie‐Ange
Published: December 2017

This paper examines the implication of financial shocks on firms’ export dynamics in developing economies. To address this question, we use the Exporter Dynamics Dataset, which contains new data on the microstructure of exports for 34 developing countries between 1997 and 2011, and investigate how exporter behaviour is affected by financial crises. We find that financial crises in both the origin and destination countries have a large negative effect on firm, product and destination dynamics, particularly in industries dependent on external finance. Financial crises make the costs of exporting more difficult to meet and in turn reduce firms’ ability to start exporting, introduce new products and sell to new destinations. We also find that the impact of financial crises is less pronounced in exporting countries with relatively more open capital accounts, suggesting that portfolio inflows may be a good substitute for underdeveloped domestic financial markets.
Doramectin in the treatment of generalized demodicosis
Authors: Cordero Alberto M. , Quek Simon , Mueller Ralf S.
Published: December 2017

Background

Generalized demodicosis is a common disease in dogs and doramectin has been reported as a successful treatment. Different treatment protocols using doramectin have not been previously evaluated.

Objective

To evaluate whether oral administration of doramectin twice a week is more effective than administration by subcutaneous injection once a week.

Animals

Twenty nine privately owned dogs affected with generalized demodicosis.

Methods

Dogs randomly received one of two treatments. Sixteen dogs were treated with 600 μg/kg doramectin by subcutaneous injection once a week and 13 dogs received 600 μg/kg doramectin by oral administration twice a week.

Results

The mean age of affected dogs was 2.8 and 2.6 years (P= 0.587) and the mean mite number detected at the initial evaluation was 201 and 287 (P= 0.04), respectively, for each group. The mean time to achieve negative skin scrapings was 13 and 12 weeks, respectively (P= 0.955). Adult‐onset demodicosis affected five of 16 and two of 13 dogs, respectively (P= 0.662). The success rate for treatment was 13 of 16 (81%) of dogs receiving subcutaneous injections once a week and 12 of 13 (92%) dogs receiving oral dosaging twice a week. (P= 0.691). Four dogs did not achieve disease remission. In the 12 month follow‐up period, one dog that had received the once a week protocol relapsed after eight weeks of treatment withdrawal. Adverse effects were not observed in any dog.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, oral administration of doramectin twice a week does not achieve a more rapid resolution of canine generalized demodicosis than administration by subcutaneous injection once a week. The treatment success rate was the same for both protocols.
Clinical signs, imaging findings, and outcome in twelve cats with internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia
Authors: Hamzianpour Negar , Lam Richard , Tetas Roser , Beltran Elsa
Published: December 2017

Objective

To retrospectively evaluate the clinical signs, imaging findings, and outcome of feline internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed from 2008 to 2015. Inclusion criteria included cats that presented with internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia, underwent diagnostic imaging, and had follow‐up information available.

Results

Twelve cases of feline internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia were identified. Nine cats were unilaterally affected, and three cats were bilaterally affected. Affected cats had a median age of 10.54 years (range 5.75 to 13.17), and both sexes of varying breeds were affected (nine males; three females). Clinical signs including abnormal mental status (n = 9; 75%) and additional neurologic abnormalities (n = 10; 83%) were observed. Magnetic resonance imaging and/or computed tomography (MRI/CT) of the head were performed in ten cats, revealing a mass lesion in all cases with varying locations. Multicentric lymphoma was diagnosed in two cats via abdominal ultrasound and cytology. All twelve cats were euthanized due to deterioration of clinical signs and/or quality‐of‐life concerns. Median time from diagnosis to euthanasia was 3.5 days (range 0 to 80 days).

Conclusions

Feline internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia rarely presents as the sole clinical sign in a referral hospital. Advanced imaging (MRI/CT) may be necessary to reach a definitive diagnosis in these cases. However, abdominal ultrasound would be advocated in cats with systemic clinical signs as a less expensive and less invasive diagnostic test to further investigate the possible etiology of internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia prior to advanced imaging. Feline cases with internal ophthalmoparesis/ophthalmoplegia associated with other intracranial signs and/or systemic clinical signs have a poor prognosis.
Examining the Pre- and Post-Competition State Anxiety Levels of Sportswomen of the Dutch Women's Volleyball National Team
Authors: Şekeroğlu Mustafa Önder
Published: December 2017

This study was planned and conducted in order to examine the pre- and post-competition state anxiety levels of sportswomen of the Dutch women's volleyball national team. This descriptive study aimed at identifying the pre- and post-competition state anxiety levels of sportswomen of the Dutch women's volleyball national team is in the general survey model. The "Competitive State Anxiety Inventory-2" (CSAI-2) consisting of 27 questions, developed by Martens, Burton, Vealey, Bump and Smith (1990) was applied to the 14 sportswomen voluntarily participating in the study. The anxiety inventory comprises the cognitive, somatic and self-confidence sub-factors. Each factor consists of 9 items. The Cronbach Alpha Internal Consistency coefficient was found as 0.91 in Cognitive Anxiety, 0.62 in Physical Anxiety, and 0.95 in Self-Confidence. According to the study conducted, comparing the pre- and post-competition anxiety levels of the sportswomen of the women's national volleyball team, a significant difference was found in cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety and self- confidence anxiety levels of p<0,05. In anxiety levels according to years of practicing sports, a significant difference at a level of p<0,05 was found in pre-competitive somatic anxiety.
Analysing the Correlations between Primary School Teachers’ Teaching Styles and Their Critical Thinking Disposition
Authors: Şen Özgür
Published: December 2017

This study aims to analyse the correlations between teaching styles primary school teachers prefer to use and their critical thinking disposition. The research was conducted with the participation of 380 primary school teachers teaching in schools located in Ankara. The study employs relational survey model. In this study “Teaching Styles Inventory” was used to determine the teaching styles preferences of primary school teachers and in order to define their critical thinking dispositions the scale of “Critical Thinking Disposition” was used. Descriptive statistic one way variance analysis (ANOVA) was used in the analysis of the data. It was found in conclusion that the teaching style the participating teachers preferred most was delegator-facilitator-expert style of teaching. Besides, significant correlations were found between primary school teachers’ preference of teaching styles and their critical thinking disposition.
A Generalized Analytical Model for Joule Heating of Segmented Wires
Authors: Balakrishnan Vivekananthan , Dinh Toan , Phan Hoang-Phuong , Dao Dzung Viet , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: December 2017

This paper presents an analytical solution for the Joule heating problem of a segmented wire made of two materials with different properties and suspended as a bridge across two fixed ends. The paper first establishes the one-dimensional (1D) governing equations of the steady-state temperature distribution along the wire with the consideration of heat conduction and free-heat convection phenomena. The temperature coefficient of resistance of the constructing materials and the dimension of the each segmented wires were also taken into account to obtain analytical solution of the temperature. COMSOL numerical solutions were also obtained for initial validation. Experimental studies were carried out using copper and nichrome wires, where the temperature distribution was monitored using an IR thermal camera. The data showed a good agreement between experimental data and the analytical data, validating our model for the design and development of thermal sensors based on multisegmented structures.
A New Approach for the Mitigating of Flow Maldistribution in Parallel Microchannel Heat Sink
Authors: Kumar Ritunesh , Singh Gurjeet , Mikielewicz Dariusz
Published: December 2017

The problem of flow maldistribution is very critical in microchannel heat sinks (MCHS). It induces temperature nonuniformity, which may ultimately lead to the breakdown of associated system. In the present communication, a novel approach for the mitigation of flow maldistribution problem in parallel MCHS has been proposed using variable width microchannels. Numerical simulation of copper made parallel MCHS consisting of 25 channels has been carried out for the conventional design (CD) and the proposed design (PD). It is observed that the PD reduces flow maldistribution by 93.7%, which facilitated in effective uniform cooling across the entire projected area of MCHS. Temperature fluctuation at fluid–solid interface is reduced by 4.3 °C, whereas maximum and average temperatures of microchannels projected area are reduced by 2.3 °C and 1.1 °C, respectively. PD is suitable in alleviating flow maldistribution problem for the extended range of off design conditions.
Quality assessment of nutrition coverage in the media: a 6-week survey of five popular UK newspapers
Authors: Kininmonth Alice R , Jamil Nafeesa , Almatrouk Nasser , Evans Charlotte E L
Published: December 2017

Objectives

To investigate the quality of nutrition articles in popular national daily newspapers in the UK and to identify important predictors of article quality.

Setting

Newspapers are a primary source of nutrition information for the public.

Design

Newspaper articles were collected on 6 days of the week (excluding Sunday) for 6 weeks in summer 2014. Predictors included food type and health outcome, size of article, whether the journalist was named and day of the week.

Outcome measures

A validated quality assessment tool was used to assess each article, with a minimum possible score of −12 and a maximum score of 17. Newspapers were checked in duplicate for relevant articles. The association of each predictor on article quality score was analysed adjusting for remaining predictors. A logistic regression model was implemented with quality score as the binary outcome, categorised as poor (score less than zero) or satisfactory (score of zero or more).

Results

Over 6 weeks, 141 nutrition articles were included across the five newspapers. The median quality score was 2 (IQR −2–6), and 44 (31%) articles were poor quality. There was no substantial variation in quality of reporting between newspapers once other factors such as anonymous publishing, health outcome, aspect of diet covered and day of the week were taken into account. Particularly low-quality scores were obtained for anonymously published articles with no named journalist, articles that focused on obesity and articles that reported on high fat and processed foods.

Conclusions

The general public are regularly exposed to poor quality information in newspapers about what to eat to promote health, particularly articles reporting on obesity. Journalists, researchers, university press officers and scientific journals need to work together more closely to ensure clear, consistent nutrition messages are communicated to the public in an engaging way.
Systematic evidence review of rates and burden of harm of intravenous admixture drug preparation errors in healthcare settings
Authors: Hedlund Nancy , Beer Idal , Hoppe-Tichy Torsten , Trbovich Patricia
Published: December 2017

Objective

To examine published evidence on intravenous admixture preparation errors (IAPEs) in healthcare settings.

Methods

Searches were conducted in three electronic databases (January 2005 to April 2017). Publications reporting rates of IAPEs and error types were reviewed and categorised into the following groups: component errors, dose/calculation errors, aseptic technique errors and composite errors. The methodological rigour of each study was assessed using the Hawker method.

Results

Of the 34 articles that met inclusion criteria, 28 reported the site of IAPEs: central pharmacies (n=8), nursing wards (n=14), both settings (n=4) and other sites (n=3). Using the Hawker criteria, 14% of the articles were of good quality, 74% were of fair quality and 12% were of poor quality. Error types and reported rates varied substantially, including wrong drug (~0% to 4.7%), wrong diluent solution (0% to 49.0%), wrong label (0% to 99.0%), wrong dose (0% to 32.6%), wrong concentration (0.3% to 88.6%), wrong diluent volume (0.06% to 49.0%) and inadequate aseptic technique (0% to 92.7%)%). Four studies directly compared incidence by preparation site and/or method, finding error incidence to be lower for doses prepared within a central pharmacy versus the nursing ward and lower for automated preparation versus manual preparation. Although eight studies (24%) reported ≥1 errors with the potential to cause patient harm, no study directly linked IAPE occurrences to specific adverse patient outcomes.

Conclusions

The available data suggest a need to continue to optimise the intravenous preparation process, focus on improving preparation workflow, design and implement preventive strategies, train staff on optimal admixture protocols and implement standardisation. Future research should focus on the development of consistent error subtype definitions, standardised reporting methodology and reliable, reproducible methods to track and link risk factors with the burden of harm associated with these errors.
Association of individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic status with physical activity and screen time in seventh-grade boys and girls in Berlin, Germany: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Krist Lilian , Bürger Christin , Ströbele-Benschop Nanette , Roll Stephanie , Lotz Fabian , Rieckmann Nina , Müller-Nordhorn Jacqueline , Willich Stefan N , Müller-Riemenschneider Falk
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Few studies have explored the impact of neighbourhood socioeconomic status (SES) on health behaviours in youths in Germany. Our aim was to investigate the association of individual and neighbourhood SES with physical activity (PA) and screen time (ST) in students aged 12–13 years in Berlin.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Secondary schools (high schools and integrated secondary schools) in Berlin, Germany.

Participants

A total of 2586 students aged 12–13 years (seventh grade).

Main outcome measures

Sociodemographics, anthropometric data and health behaviours were assessed by self-report during classes. Primary outcome was the association of individual and neighbourhood SES with meeting daily PA and exceeding daily ST recommendations. Students’ characteristics were described with means or percentages. Comparisons were performed using generalised linear mixed model yielding ORs with 95% CIs.

Results

Mean (±SD) age was 12.5±0.5 years, 50.5% were girls and 34.1% had a migrant background. When adjusting for individual covariates, associations of low versus high individual SES were 0.85 (0.48; 1.52) for PA and 2.08 (1.26; 3.43) for ST. Associations of low versus high neighbourhood SES were 1.76 (1.12; 2.75) for PA and 1.54 (1.10; 2.17) for ST. After additional adjustment for school type and school neighbourhood SES, associations comparing low versus high individual and neighbourhood SES were attenuated for PA (individual SES 0.74 (0.41; 1.33) and neighbourhood SES 1.51 (0.93; 2.46)) and ST (individual SES 1.88 (1.12; 3.14) and neighbourhood SES 1.40(0.98; 2.00).

Conclusions

Lower individual and neighbourhood SES were associated with higher ST. Lower neighbourhood but not individual SES was associated with higher PA. After consideration of school type and school neighbourhood SES associations were attenuated and became insignificant for the relationship between neighbourhood SES, PA and ST. Further research is warranted to unravel the complex relationships between individual SES, neighbourhood SES and school environment to develop more targeted health promotion strategies in the future.