bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Laboratory measurements of ‘porosity‐free’ intrinsic Vp and Vs in an olivine gabbro of the Oman ophiolite: Implication for interpretation of the seismic structure of lower oceanic crust
Authors: Saito Satoshi , Ishikawa Masahiro , Arima Makoto , Tatsumi Yoshiyuki 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIn order to determine ‘porosity‐free’ intrinsic ultrasonic compressional (Vp) and shear wave (Vs) velocities and Vp/Vs of an olivine gabbro from the Oman ophiolite, we developed a new experimental system using a piston‐cylinder type high‐pressure apparatus. The new system allowed us to measure velocities at pressures ranging from 0.20 to 1.00 GPa and at temperatures up to 300°C for Vp and 400°C for Vs. At room temperature, the Vp and Vp/Vs increase rapidly with pressure up to 0.40 GPa, while between 0.45 and 1.00 GPa the increase is more gradual. The change in increasing rate is attributed to closure of porosity at pressures above 0.45 GPa. Based on the linear regression of data obtained at higher pressures (0.45–1.00 GPa) and extrapolation to the lower pressures, combined with temperature derivatives of velocities of the sample measured at 1.00 GPa, we determined the intrinsic Vp and Vs of the sample as a function of pressure (P, in GPa) and temperature (T, in °C). The intrinsic velocities can be expressed as Vp (km/s) = 7.004 + 0.096 × P − 0.00015 × T, and Vs (km/s) = 3.827 + 0.007 × P − 0.00008 × T. We evaluated the intrinsic Vp and Vs of the olivine gabbro at oceanic crustal conditions and compared them with a velocity depth‐profile of the borehole seismic observatory WP‐2 area in the northwestern Pacific Basin. Although the intrinsic Vp (∼7.0 km/s) and Vs (∼3.8 km/s) for the olivine gabbro studied are comparable to those of seismic layer 3 in the WP‐2 area, the estimated vertical gradients of intrinsic velocities are significantly smaller than those reported from layer 3. These results suggest that velocity profiles of layer 3 in the WP‐2 area may reflect the presence of a minor porosity in lower oceanic crust, which closes with increasing depth and/or continuous changes in mineralogy of layer 3 rocks.
A novel technique for simultaneous whole‐body and multi‐organ decellularization: umbilical artery catheterization as a perfusion‐based method in a sheep foetus model
Authors: Kajbafzadeh Abdol‐Mohammad , Khorramirouz Reza , Akbarzadeh Aram , Sabetkish Shabnam , Sabetkish Nastaran , Saadat Paria , Tehrani Mona 
Published: May 2015

SummaryThe aim of this study was to develop a method to generate multi‐organ acellular matrices. Using a foetal sheep model have developed a method of systemic pulsatile perfusion via the umbilical artery which allows for simultaneous multi‐organ decellularization. Twenty sheep foetuses were systemically perfused with Triton X‐100 and sodium dodecyl sulphate. Following completion of the whole‐body decellularization, multiple biopsy samples were taken from different parts of 21 organs to ascertain complete cell component removal in the preserved extracellular matrices. Both the natural and decellularized organs were subjected to several examinations. The samples were obtained from the skin, eye, ear, nose, throat, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary, musculoskeletal, central nervous and peripheral nervous systems. The histological results depicted well‐preserved extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity and intact vascular structures, without any evidence of residual cellular materials, in all decellularized bioscaffolds. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and biochemical properties remained intact, similar to their age‐matched native counterparts. Preservation of the collagen structure was evaluated by a hydroxyproline assay. Dense organs such as bone and muscle were also completely decellularized, with a preserved ECM structure. Thus, as shown in this study, several organs and different tissues were decellularized using a perfusion‐based method, which has not been previously accomplished. Given the technical challenges that exist for the efficient generation of biological scaffolds, the current results may pave the way for obtaining a variety of decellularized scaffolds from a single donor. In this study, there have been unique responses to the single acellularization protocol in foetuses, which may reflect the homogeneity of tissues and organs in the developing foetal body.
Up in smoke: demarketing and consumer smoking cessation
Authors: White Christopher J. , Thomas Harrison 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe concept of demarketing refers to the use of marketing techniques to reduce or eliminate demand for a product or service. A review of the demarketing literature relating to health and specifically antismoking initiatives indicated that, while research on this topic exists, much of it is not grounded in an acceptable attitudinal or behavioural theory. After determining the importance placed by a sample of 18–24‐year olds on nine demarketing initiatives, two dimensions were identified that best explained this construct. Items within these dimensions were summed and averaged to form single variables, which were then used to form the attitudinal component of the Model of Goal Directed Behaviour. The findings showed that two of these variables – one that captured product packaging aspects and another that consisted of place and price items – significantly influenced the desire to quit and indirectly influenced the intention to quit. Anticipated positive emotions, frequency of quitting attempts and perceived control over quitting also positively influenced the desire and/or intention to quit. The article concludes with a discussion that interprets these findings from a theoretical and practical perspective and suggests directions for future research.
Long‐term follow‐up and epidemiological trends in patients with pretibial myxedema: an 11‐year study from a tertiary care center in northern India
Authors: Sendhil Kumaran Muthu , Dutta Pinaki , Sakia Uma , Dogra Sunil 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIntroductionPretibial myxedema (PTM) is a rare manifestation of Graves' disease. There is paucity of data regarding long‐term follow‐up and response to treatment in PTM.Materials and methodsRetrospective study wherein 30 patients of PTM presenting during 2001–2011 attending dermatology and endocrinology outpatient departments were analyzed.ResultsAmong 30 patients with PTM, 12 were males and 18 females with a ratio of 1 : 1.5 males/females. Four morphological forms were identified: plaques (18 patients), diffuse non‐pitting edema of both lower legs (five), nodules (five), and elephantiasis lesions (two). Eighty percent were diagnosed with hyperthyroidism before the development of dermopathy. Twenty‐six patients presented with ophthalmopathy. Fourteen patients with plaque had an excellent response to topical clobetasol propionate ointment and attained complete resolution by 3.6 years. Out of 16 patients treated with combination therapy, which included nine treated with topical corticosteroids/intralesional triamcinolone and seven treated with oral, intralesional, and topical corticosteroids, nine attained complete resolution in the lesions by 3.4 years, and none relapsed anytime during four years of post‐treatment follow‐up. However, the remaining patients (elephantiasis and diffuse forms) failed to achieve complete resolution.ConclusionsPlaques and nodules are common variants with a favorable clinical response to topical and intralesional corticosteroid; elephantine and diffuse forms responded poorly to therapy. Studies analyzing larger cohorts of patients with PTM and their long‐term follow‐up are limited, hence more such studies are required.
Regulation on Migrant Workers’ Employment in the Israeli Construction Sector
Authors: Ida Yoram , Talit Gal 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThis article deals with a reform in the regulation on employment of migrant workers which was implemented in the Israeli construction industry from 2005. This corporations‐based arrangement replaced a restrictive employment arrangement which tied the employee to a specific employer. The new regulation of work conditions and wages, coupled with a significant reduction in the number of work permits issued to construction, has improved work conditions and wages paid to migrant workers, and made their employment less attractive to employers. The reform also included elements designed to reduce the illegal employment phenomenon and to encourage migrant workers to leave the country at the end of their contracts. However, the new arrangement still restricted the mobility of migrant workers to some extent and had negative consequences such as a significant rise in the broker fees demanded of workers.
A Conversation with Jack Kalbfleisch and Jerry Lawless
Authors: Wild Chris J. 
Published: May 2015

SummaryHalf a century ago, two 18‐year‐olds arrive at university, are randomly paired as chemistry lab partners and become fast friends. Their careers and even family lives entwine, and both go on to join the pantheon of Canada's great statisticians. This all begins at a time when North American university education, and access to it, is growing explosively. It begins at a small start‐up university, an upstart start‐up that eschews conventional wisdom, finds a way to mine a seam of the brightest high school students and innovates—catching important waves and becoming a mathematical sciences powerhouse. In this interview, we explore these stories and some lessons that might be learned from them. Unfortunately lurking variables confound the easily implemented ‘put them in chemistry class in random pairs’ as a prescription for producing top‐flight statisticians.
Rapid Preparation of SiC Fibers Using a Curing Route of Electron Irradiation in a Low Oxygen Concentration Atmosphere
Authors: Su Zhiming , Zhang Litong , Li Yongcai , Li Siwei , Chen Lifu 
Published: May 2015

Polycarbosilane (PCS) fiber was irradiated by electron beam at low dose in a flowing N2/O2 mixture with O2 concentration of 1%. After the pyrolysis of the irradiated precursor fibers, SiC fibers with high strength of 2.4 GPa were obtained. Microstructural evolutions of the resultant fibers were explored. It was found that during the irradiation, free radicals were formed in the PCS and were oxidized by oxygen as Si–OH groups. The Si–OH groups then transformed into Si–O–Si linkage and resulted in further cross‐linking of the PCS during pyrolysis. A remarkable structure gradient along the fiber diameter was formed under the coupled effects of irradiation and oxidation. The content of oxygen decreased from the fiber surface to the core, whereas the crystallinity of β‐SiC increased in the same direction. The electrical resistivity of the as‐prepared ceramic fiber was 80.7 Ω cm, showing good potential for being as electromagnetic wave absorber.
The current status of theory evaluation in nursing
Authors: Im Eun‐Ok 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAimsTo identify the current status of theory evaluation in nursing and provide directions for theory evaluation for future development of theoretical bases of nursing discipline.BackgroundTheory evaluation is an essential component in development of nursing knowledge, which is a critical element in development of nursing discipline. Despite earlier significant efforts for theory evaluation in nursing, a recent decline in the number of theory evaluation articles was noted and there have been few updates on theory evaluation in nursing.DesignDiscussion paper.Data sourcesA total of 58 articles published from 2003–2014 were retrieved through searches using the PUBMED, PsyInfo and CINAHL. The articles were sorted by the area of evaluation and analysed to identify themes reflecting the theory evaluation process.Implications for nursingDiverse ways of theory evaluation need to be continuously used in future theory evaluation efforts.ConclusionSix themes reflecting the theory evaluation process were identified: (a) rarely using existing theory evaluation criteria; (b) evaluating specifics; (c) using various statistical analysis methods; (d) developing instruments; (e) adopting in practice and education; and (f) evaluating mainly middle‐range theories and situation‐specific theories.
Operationalisation of quality of life for adults with severe disabilities
Authors: Gómez L. E. , Arias B. , Verdugo M. Á. , Tassé M. J. , Brown I. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractBackgroundThe operationalisation of quality of life for people with more severe disabilities has been acknowledged in the published research for more than two decades. This study aims to contribute to our knowledge and understanding of the quality of life of adults with severe disabilities by developing a set of quality of life indicators appropriate to this population using a Delphi method and the eight‐domain conceptual model proposed by Schalock & Verdugo ().MethodThe participating panel in the Delphi method included 12 experts who evaluated each proposed item according to four criteria: suitability, importance, observability and sensitivity. Descriptive analyses were used to select the best items in each of the four rounds of this Delphi study, as well as examining the coefficients of concordance that were calculated for the final pool of items.ResultsThe four rounds of the Delphi study resulted in a final pool of 118 items (91 that were considered valid in the first round plus 27 items proposed, reformulated or discussed in the following rounds). Importance and sensitivity were the criteria that received the highest and lowest ratings, respectively, but also the ones that had the highest and lowest mean coefficients of concordance. Experts showed the strongest agreement for items related to material well‐being, while the weakest was found for items related to personal development.ConclusionsThis study further contributes to our understanding of how to operationalise and measure quality of life in adults with severe disabilities. The item pool generated may prove helpful in the development of instruments for the measurement of quality of life‐related outcomes in this population.
Incorporating a Primary Care Practicum in Midwifery Education
Authors: Kessler Julia Lange , Phillippi Julia C. 
Published: May 2015

IntroductionThere is a shortage of primary care providers in the United States. As more individuals obtain health insurance coverage with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, the number seeking care will increase dramatically. Both the Institute of Medicine and the American College of Nurse‐Midwives state that certified nurse‐midwives and certified midwives should function at their full scope of practice, which includes primary care services as delineated by the Core Competencies for Basic Midwifery Practice. Nonetheless, the percentage of midwives who self‐identify as primary care providers is decreasing. Dedicated primary care educational experiences may increase student confidence and encourage the incorporation of primary care into midwifery practice after graduation.MethodsMidwifery students in 2 cohorts completed questionnaires before and after a dedicated primary care practicum to study changes in the perceived level of confidence in primary care provision. The students in cohort A participated in 45 hours of primary care clinical time, whereas the students in cohort B participated in 88 hours of primary care clinical time. Postclinical focus groups provided qualitative data on student perceptions and attitudes about the clinical experience. Student responses were coded by cohort and analyzed using qualitative descriptive analysis.ResultsSeventeen midwifery students from 2 cohorts completed questionnaires. Students in both cohorts reported increased perceived confidence in almost all primary care domains.DiscussionParticipation in a dedicated primary care clinical rotation increased student‐perceived confidence in primary care practice. The inclusion of designated primary care clinical education in nurse‐midwifery education may contribute to meeting the national need for primary care providers. This article is part of a special series of articles that address midwifery innovations in clinical practice, education, interprofessional collaboration, health policy, and global health.
Improving executive function using transcranial infrared laser stimulation
Authors: Blanco Nathaniel J. , Maddox W. Todd , Gonzalez‐Lima Francisco 
Published: May 2015

Transcranial infrared laser stimulation is a new non‐invasive form of low‐level light therapy that may have a wide range of neuropsychological applications. It entails using low‐power and high‐energy‐density infrared light from lasers to increase metabolic energy. Preclinical work showed that this intervention can increase cortical metabolic energy, thereby improving frontal cortex‐based memory function in rats. Barrett and Gonzalez‐Lima (2013, Neuroscience, 230, 13) discovered that transcranial laser stimulation can enhance sustained attention and short‐term memory in humans. We extend this line of work to executive function. Specifically, we ask whether transcranial laser stimulation enhances performance in the Wisconsin Card Sorting Task that is considered the gold standard of executive function and is compromised in normal ageing and a number of neuropsychological disorders. We used a laser of a specific wavelength (1,064 nm) that photostimulates cytochrome oxidase – the enzyme catalysing oxygen consumption for metabolic energy production. Increased cytochrome oxidase activity is considered the primary mechanism of action of this intervention. Participants who received laser treatment made fewer errors and showed improved set‐shifting ability relative to placebo controls. These results suggest that transcranial laser stimulation improves executive function and may have exciting potential for treating or preventing deficits resulting from neuropsychological disorders or normal ageing.
The innervation of the zebrafish pharyngeal jaws and teeth
Authors: Crucke Jeroen , Van de Kelft Annelore , Huysseune Ann 
Published: May 2015

AbstractZebrafish (Danio rerio) teeth are increasingly used as a model to study odontogenesis in non‐mammalians. Using serial semi‐thin section histology and immunohistochemistry, the nerves innervating the pharyngeal jaws and teeth have been identified. The last pair of branchial arches, which are non‐gill bearing but which carry the teeth, are innervated by an internal branch of a post‐trematic ramus of the vagal nerve. Another, external, branch is probably responsible for the motor innervation of the branchiomeric musculature. Nerve fibres appear in the pulp cavity of the teeth only late during cytodifferentiation, and are therefore likely not involved in early steps of tooth formation. The precise role of the nervous system during continuous tooth replacement remains to be determined. Nonetheless, this study provides the necessary morphological background information to address this question.
Experience of fetoscopic laser photocoagulation and cord transection for twin‐reversed arterial perfusion sequence
Authors: Takano Mayumi , Murata Susumu , Fujiwara Michihisa , Hirata Hiroko , Nakata Masahiko 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAimThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of fetoscopic laser photocoagulation of placental communicating vessels or umbilical cord for twin‐reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence.Material and MethodsWe report a retrospective case series of all cases of TRAP sequence identified from 2006 to 2014 at out institutions. Fetoscopic laser photocoagulation of placental arterioarterial and venovenous anastomoses was performed in diamniotic twins, and in cases of monoamniotic twins we performed laser photocoagulation and transection of the umbilical cord of the acardiac twin to prevent cord entanglement. Pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were estimated.ResultsTen cases were included in the study. The median gestational age at procedure was 21.3 weeks (range, 16.7–27.3 weeks). All cases completed the procedure. Two cases were treated with laser photocoagulation and transection of the umbilical cord of the acardiac twin. No major immediate complications were noted. Preterm rupture of membranes occurred in four cases (40%). One case resulted in miscarriage. The other fetuses were delivered alive. Median gestational age at delivery was 35.4 weeks (range, 25.6–42.0 weeks). Median interval of treatment to delivery was 85 days (range, 43–153 days). Five out four infants were delivered preterm. The overall neonatal survival was 9/10.ConclusionThis case series demonstrated favorable outcome, and fetoscopic laser photocoagulation seems to be a useful treatment for TRAP sequence. In particular, transection of the umbilical cord is effective to prevent cord entanglement of monoamniotic twins.
Change in Chemical Composition of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Essential Oil Caused by Alfalfa mosaic virus
Authors: Bruni Renato , Bellardi Maria Grazia , Parrella Giuseppe 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe effects of Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) infection on essential oil (EO) content and composition of a Sweet Basil cv. Gigante di Napoli were evaluated. A 10‐fold lower extraction yield from infected plants was observed, suggesting that morphological alterations induced by the disease may affect abundance and efficacy of secretive tissues. Organoleptic properties and thus quality of EO were severely affected and EO composition resulted severely altered, with a great increase in sesquiterpenes (from 72.8 to 19.8%) and a decrease in both monoterpenes (from 35 to 11%) and phenylpropanoids (from 44.5 to 15.8%, despite a slight increase in eugenol). Such report is indicative of possible direct or indirect metabolic consequences of AMV in a commercially important species like Ocimum basilicum is. The possible consequences of linalool and trans‐β‐farnesene content changes on the dispersion of viruliferous aphids are also examined and discussed.
Occurrence of Charcoal Rot Caused by Macrophomina phaseolina, an Emerging Disease of Adzuki Bean in China
Authors: Sun Suli , Wang Xiaoming , Zhu Zhendong , Wang Bin , Wang Meng 
Published: May 2015

AbstractAdzuki bean (Vigna angularis) is an important legume crop in China. Soil‐borne charcoal rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid is an important and devastating disease of many crops including legumes. During late August and early September, 2014, symptoms similar to charcoal rot were observed on adzuki bean plants in Yulin City of Shanxi Province, and Fangshan County of Beijing, China. This study was conducted to determine the causal agent of the emerging disease on adzuki bean. Four fungal isolates were obtained and identified as M. phaseolina based on morphological and molecular characteristics, including species‐specific primer detection and sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. The resulting sequences showed 99% identity with more than 60 M. phaseolina strains from diverse hosts. The virulence on adzuki bean was verified using pathogenicity tests, producing symptoms similar to those observed in the fields. To our knowledge, this is the first report of M. phaseolina causing charcoal rot on adzuki bean.