bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced studies on synthesis and cure reaction of fluorinated epoxy resin
Authors: Damian Celina Maria , Vulcan Maria Adina , Zaharia Anamaria , Zaharia Cătălin , Vasile Eugeniu , Iovu Horia
Published: December 2015

Fluorinated epoxy resins (FERs) were extensively studied for applications in electronic packaging, optical waveguides, and antifouling coatings. This research focuses on the synthesis and characterization of FER following a polycondensation reaction between fluorinated bisphenol and epichlorohydrin. Cure reaction was monitored using dispersive Raman spectroscopy and by calculation of the oxirane groups conversion. After one short postcuring stage, the decomposition temperatures of fluoroepoxy showed increased values with 28–35°C for the samples cured at 50°C. The resultant materials showed excellent fracture morphology, while the presence of fluorine was revealed by energy-dispersive X-ray and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic techniques. Hydrophobic surface was evidenced through the surface energy resulted from contact angle measurements.
Tool path generation for ultra-precision polishing of freeform optical surfaces in an off-axis three-mirror imaging system
Authors: Huang Dengpeng , Zhang Lei , Ji Shijun , Zhao Ji
Published: December 2015

The optical performance of the off-axis three-mirror imaging system can be greatly improved using freeform surfaces. This article focuses on the polishing of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror in an off-axis three-mirror imaging system. The primary mirror and tertiary mirror are fabricated on one monolithic substrate and described by non-uniform rational B-spline–based freeform surfaces. The separated and integrated polishing strategies are presented for polishing the two mirrors on the four-axis computer numerical control polishing platform. A tool path generation approach is proposed for polishing of the non-uniform rational B-spline–based freeform surface. Three kinds of the tool paths are given for ultra-precision polishing of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror with the freeform surfaces. The concentric circle path and the approximately concentric circle path are generated for polishing two mirrors separately, while the spiral path is calculated for integrated polishing of two mirrors simultaneously. The polishing tool posture along the planned tool paths is also analyzed. The ultra-precision polishing experiments of the primary mirror and tertiary mirror on the four-axis computer numerical control polishing platform are performed to verify the proposed approach for tool path generation.
Numerical investigation of a mono-tube damper with a shim stack
Authors: Bell D , Beale RG
Published: December 2015

The objective of this paper is to investigate the operation of a mono-tube damper through the application of Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis to the piston and flows through a series of flexible shims which cover exits of the piston orifices. The shims and orifices combine to form a system of variable area flow paths of the damper in parallel with the permanent bleed orifices. Shim stack stiffness characteristics were obtained using experimental and Finite Element techniques. The deflection characteristics were non-linear and were highly dependent upon small gaps present between shims and the restraining bodies. With the nature of the shim deflection being highly complex the computational fluid dynamics models investigated the shim deflection using a global uniform displacement method and also a more representative displacement based upon the finite element shim modelling. It was observed that the global displacement models allowed radially inward flow to establish and also overpredicted pressure drops. Finite element analysis of the shims allowed accurate representation of flow paths to be simulated which closely matched experimental and mathematical predictions. The computational fluid dynamics analyses showed that the discharge velocity for the global shim offset is greater than that from a variable shim deflection calculation. The damper pressure drop is highly dependent upon the shape of the flow path formed by the shim deflection. The presence of sharp direction changes through the piston and valve assembly leads to increased damping rates and piston pressure drops.
Beyond Faces and Expertise
Authors: Zhao Mintao , Bülthoff Heinrich H. , Bülthoff Isabelle
Published: December 2015

Holistic processing—the tendency to perceive objects as indecomposable wholes—has long been viewed as a process specific to faces or objects of expertise. Although current theories differ in what causes holistic processing, they share a fundamental constraint for its generalization: Nonface objects cannot elicit facelike holistic processing in the absence of expertise. Contrary to this prevailing view, here we show that line patterns with salient Gestalt information (i.e., connectedness, closure, and continuity between parts) can be processed as holistically as faces without any training. Moreover, weakening the saliency of Gestalt information in these patterns reduced holistic processing of them, which indicates that Gestalt information plays a crucial role in holistic processing. Therefore, holistic processing can be achieved not only via a top-down route based on expertise, but also via a bottom-up route relying merely on object-based information. The finding that facelike holistic processing can extend beyond the domains of faces and objects of expertise poses a challenge to current dominant theories.
The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form: Evidence for Reliability and Construct Validity in a Sample of Community-Dwelling Italian Adolescents
Authors: Fossati Andrea , Somma Antonella , Borroni Serena , Markon Kristian E. , Krueger Robert F.
Published: December 2015

To assess the reliability and construct validity of the Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form (PID-5-BF) among adolescents, 877 Italian high school students were administered the PID-5-BF. Participants were administered also the Measure of Disordered Personality Functioning (MDPF) as a criterion measure. In the full sample, Cronbach’s alpha values for the PID-5-BF scales ranged from .59 (Detachment) to .77 (Psychoticism); in addition, all PID-5-BF scales showed mean interitem correlation values in the .22 to .40 range. Cronbach’s alpha values for the PID-5-BF total score was .83 (mean interitem r = .16). Although 2-month test–retest reliability could be assessed only in a small ( n = 42) subsample of participants, all PID-5-BF scale scores showed adequate temporal stability, as indexed by intraclass r values ranging from .78 (Negative Affectivity) to .97 (Detachment), all ps <.001. Exploratory structural equation modeling analyses provided at least moderate support for the a priori model of PID-5-BF items. Multiple regression analyses showed that PID-5-BF scales predicted a nonnegligible amount of variance in MDPF Non-Cooperativeness, adjusted R2 = .17, p < .001, and Non-Coping scales, adjusted R2 = .32, p < .001. Similarly, the PID-5-BF total score was a significant predictor of both MDPF Non-Coping, and Non-Cooperativeness scales.
Large amplitude free vibration of nanotube-reinforced composite doubly curved panels resting on elastic foundations in thermal environments
Authors: Shen Hui-Shen , He X-Q
Published: December 2015

A large amplitude vibration analysis is presented for nanocomposite doubly curved panels resting on elastic foundations in thermal environments. The doubly curved nanocomposite panels are studied with the consideration of different types of distributions of uniaxial aligned single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). The material properties of the functionally graded carbon nanotube-reinforced composites (FG-CNTRCs) are assumed to be graded in the thickness direction according to linear distributions of the volume fraction of CNTs and are estimated through a micromechanical model. The motion equations are based on a higher order shear deformation theory and von Kármán strain-displacement relationships. The thermal effects are also included and the material properties of CNTRCs are assumed to be temperature-dependent. The motion equations are solved by a two-step perturbation approach to determine the nonlinear frequencies of the CNTRC doubly curved panel. The numerical illustrations cover small- and large-amplitude vibration characteristics of CNTRC doubly curved panels resting on Pasternak elastic foundations. The present solutions also highlight the effects of CNT volume fraction, temperature variation, foundation stiffness, panel curvature ratio as well as in-plane boundary conditions on the nonlinear free vibration behaviors of CNTRC doubly curved panels.
The Face of Civility
Authors: Johnson Amber
Published: December 2015

Hypermodal pedagogy is a form of instruction that incorporates multiple modes of media, technology, and physical performance that link to course material and virtual spaces. In this essay and accompanying website, Amber Johnson explains the utility of hypermodal pedagogy, how it fosters civic engagement, and showcases student work across two courses, Photojournalism and Communication, Culture & Identity.
Assemblages and Swing-Arounds
Authors: Guttorm Hanna Ellen
Published: December 2015

This article, this porous writing, illustrates (and not) some parts of the becoming of the PhD thesis of the author. The PhD and this writing discuss and challenge research writing and arguing, and fumble and experiment toward something slightly new, open-ended and nothing-easy-or-needed-to-explain-or-understand. This writing/entanglement includes/materializes within poems, or movements-toward-poems, and love letters, as well as digressions, and steps “back and forth.” This is done in playful (and serious) joy with poststructural, postqualitative, and (new) materialist theories. This is (and is not) also a response to Professor Graham Badley’s welcome response to the author’s earlier article. One, not-yet/ever-solved, and/but-always-new question remains: What to think about/with the subjectivity of the writer/researcher, thus who/what is writing?
Merkel Cell Carcinoma With Gastric Metastasis and Review of Literature
Authors: Hu Zishuo Ian , Schuster Jessica A. , Kudelka Andrzej P. , Huston Tara L.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, highly aggressive cutaneous neoplasm, with a propensity for recurrence and metastasis. Very few cases of metastases to the gastrointestinal tract have been reported in the medical literature.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to report a case of MCC metastasizing to the stomach, its clinical presentation, and its management.

Methods:

A PubMed search was made using the following search terms: “Merkel cell carcinoma,” “gastric,” and “metastasis.”

Results:

The investigators report a case of MCC metastatic to the stomach presenting with melena, syncope, early satiety, increasing fatigue, and unintentional weight loss. The other known cases of gastrointestinal metastasis of MCC are summarized and critically reviewed.

Conclusions:

Although MCC spreading to the stomach is exceedingly rare, because of MCC’s high recurrence rate and metastatic potential, it should be considered in patients with histories of MCC presenting with recent weight loss, early satiety, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Nurturing travel and tourism enterprises for economic growth and competitiveness
Authors: Camilleri Mark Anthony
Published: December 2015

Small and medium-sized enterprises are often constrained by their size and limited resources. They can find themselves in an equity gap where they may find it difficult to raise capital for their business. Consequently, this contribution involves a content analysis of specific European Union policies and instruments that are aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in accessing finance. Moreover, it also presents a short case study of a tourism start-up that has raised its capital requirements through crowdfunding. This research sheds light on practitioner-oriented tools that can ultimately foster a climate for job creation, economic growth and competitiveness among small and medium-sized enterprises in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Retailing religion: Guided tours and guide narratives in Hindu pilgrimage
Authors: Aukland Knut
Published: December 2015

This study investigates guided tours and guide narratives in the context of Hindu pilgrimage in Rishikesh and Haridwar, two pilgrimage towns in Northern India. Combining participant observation with analysis of audio-recorded guide narratives, it finds that the overall structure of the guided tours, combined with a variety of narratives and rhetorical devises, promotes the benefits and uses of religious objects. Cooperating with retailers of religious goods, guides are retailing religion as they combine and coordinate commercial and religious interests in their tours. Conceptualising pilgrimage and tourism as two separate domains, it is argued that tourist guides and their guided tours have become an integral part of Hindu pilgrimage and its operation in contemporary India.
Student Partnerships to Build Organizational Capacity
Authors: Hutchinson Carole , Hyden Christel
Published: December 2015

Public health organizations—whether community-based nonprofits, centers affiliated with a university, or some other entity—can benefit greatly from partnering with students to build capacity and grow in a variety of ways. However, there are many issues to consider before taking on students as interns or volunteers. These include realistic considerations of supervisory time and effort, determining if you can actually match student skills with organizational programming not to mention legal requirements based on federal and state laws. This article provides a detailed overview of steps that organizations interested in partnering with students should follow once determining that taking on a student or multiple students is viable. These include issues around time lines, scheduling, the student selection process, supervising, ongoing mentoring, as well as expectations after the practicum or volunteer experience has ended.
Bridging the Science-Practice Gap in Obesity Treatment
Authors: Johnston Craig A. , Moreno Jennette P.
Published: December 2015

The number of putative causes of obesity continues to increase at a rapid rate. As science identifies novel causes of obesity, innovations in the treatment of obesity also evolve. These innovations have important implications for clinical practice; however, a gap exists between research and the clinical application of research. Practical considerations about how to address this gap between research and practice are discussed.
Data analysis methods for assessing palliative care interventions in one-group pre–post studies
Authors: Ioroi Takeshi , Kakuma Tatsuyuki , Sakashita Akihiro , Miki Yuki , Ohtagaki Kanako , Fujiwara Yuka , Utsubo Yuko , Nishimura Yoshihiro , Hirai Midori
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

Studies of palliative care are often performed using single-arm pre–post study designs that lack causal inference. Thus, in this study, we propose a novel data analysis approach that incorporates risk factors from single-arm studies instead of using paired t-tests to assess intervention effects.

Methods:

Physical, psychological and social evaluations of eligible cancer inpatients were conducted by a hospital-based palliative care team. Quality of life was assessed at baseline and after 7 days of symptomatic treatment using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C15-PAL. Among 35 patients, 9 were discharged within 1 week and 26 were included in analyses. Structural equation models with observed measurements were applied to estimate direct and indirect intervention effects and simultaneously consider risk factors.

Results:

Parameters were estimated using full models that included associations among covariates and reduced models that excluded covariates with small effects. The total effect was calculated as the sum of intervention and covariate effects and was equal to the mean of the difference (0.513) between pre- and post-intervention quality of life (reduced model intervention effect, 14.749; 95% confidence intervals, −4.407 and 33.905; p = 0.131; covariate effect, −14.236; 95% confidence interval, −33.708 and 5.236; p = 0.152).

Conclusion:

Using the present analytical method for single-arm pre–post study designs, factors that modulate effects of interventions were modelled, and intervention and covariate effects were distinguished based on structural equation model.
Intergenerational Solidarity in the Workplace
Authors: Barabaschi Barbara
Published: December 2015

Starting from the main criticalities that young and old people meet in contemporary labor markets, this article analyses the principle of solidarity between generations at work, in light of a multidisciplinary (especially sociological) literature. This offers different conceptual lenses for understanding complex relationships in workplaces. They provide different ways to understand micro-level interpersonal relations and macro-level structural forces and the interactions between them, arriving to define which kind of solidarity may be realistically proposed in contemporary labor markets. Then, intergenerational relations are briefly collocated in European Union debate aiming to promote a cohesive society. In the second part, four country cases are presented to demonstrate how the matter of intergenerational relations has influenced recent labor reforms. Following van der Veen, Yerkes, and Achterberg, who found differences in the choice of justice principles and in the level of solidarity preferred by social groups living in different welfare regimes, to reduce the complexity of the analysis, countries belonging to the same welfare regime have been chosen. Finally, measures presented are critically discussed in the more general context of European labor market and social welfare crisis.
The Effect of a Social Stories Intervention on the Social Skills of Male Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Golzari Fatemeh , Hemati Alamdarloo Ghorban , Moradi Shahram
Published: December 2015

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of a social stories intervention on the social skills of male students with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). The sample included 30 male students with ASD who were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to an experimental group ( n = 15) or a control group ( n = 15). The social skills of both groups were assessed pre- and post-test using Stone and colleagues’ Social Skills Scale (which included subscales for understanding/perspective-taking, initiating interactions, responding to interactions, and maintaining interactions). The experimental group participated in 16 sessions of social stories training, while the control group did not. Overall, the results showed that the social stories intervention improved the social skills of the children with ASD in the experimental group compared with the control group. The effects of the social stories intervention were mostly evident in the subscales for understanding/perspective-taking, initiating interactions, and maintaining interactions with others. The social stories intervention had no effect on the subscale assessing ability to respond to others. The study findings emphasize the effectiveness of the social stories intervention in improving the social skills of children with ASD, which may be used by teachers, parents, or professionals who work with such children.
Collaborative Assessment for Employment Planning
Authors: Stevenson Bradley S. , Fowler Catherine H.
Published: December 2015

As the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act (WIOA) is implemented across the nation, special education and vocational rehabilitation professionals will need to increase their level of collaboration. One area of potential collaboration is assessment—transition assessment for the field of special education and the discovery process for adult service providers. The purpose of this article is to describe both processes, highlighting similarities and differences, and make recommendations for practice.
A time-varying wavelet extraction using local similarity
Authors: Yong-Shou Dai , Rong-Rong Wang , Chuang Li , Peng Zhang , Yong-Cheng Tan
Published: December 2015

Seismic wavelet extraction is an integral part of high-resolution seismic analysis. However, most extraction methods ignore the time-varying characteristic of wavelets introduced by attenuation, scattering, and other physical processes during propagation. We have developed a time-varying wavelet extraction method based on local similarity. This method estimates the amplitude spectra by spectral modeling in the time-frequency domain. We estimated the phase of each spectrum in two steps: First, the phase range was estimated by the bispectrum of the high-order cumulants, and then the phase spectrum at every point was extracted with additional local similarity optimization. The extracted nonstationary wavelet improved the resolution of the wavelet estimation in the adjacent layers. We have determined the practicability and reliability of the proposed method using a numerical simulation, and we have compared the results of this method with those of the adaptive segmentation method.
Excess Maternal Fructose Consumption Increases Fetal Loss and Impairs Endometrial Decidualization in Mice
Authors: Saben Jessica L. , Asghar Zeenat , Rhee Julie S. , Drury Andrea , Scheaffer Suzanne , Moley Kelle H.
Published: December 2015

The most significant increase in metabolic syndrome over the previous decade occurred in women of reproductive age, which is alarming given that metabolic syndrome is associated with reproductive problems including subfertility and early pregnancy loss. Individuals with metabolic syndrome often consume excess fructose, and several studies have concluded that excess fructose intake contributes to metabolic syndrome development. Here, we examined the effects of increased fructose consumption on pregnancy outcomes in mice. Female mice fed a high-fructose diet (HFrD) for 6 weeks developed glucose intolerance and mild fatty liver but did not develop other prominent features of metabolic syndrome such as weight gain, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia. Upon mating, HFrD-exposed mice had lower pregnancy rates and smaller litters at midgestation than chow-fed controls. To explain this phenomenon, we performed artificial decidualization experiments and found that HFrD consumption impaired decidualization. This appeared to be due to decreased circulating progesterone as exogenous progesterone administration rescued decidualization. Furthermore, HFrD intake was associated with decreased bone morphogenetic protein 2 expression and signaling, both of which were restored by exogenous progesterone. Finally, expression of forkhead box O1 and superoxide dismutase 2 [Mn] proteins were decreased in the uteri of HFrD-fed mice, suggesting that HFrD consumption promotes a prooxidative environment in the endometrium. In summary, these data suggest that excess fructose consumption impairs murine fertility by decreasing steroid hormone synthesis and promoting an adverse uterine environment.
Identification of RNF168 as a PML nuclear body regulator
Authors: Shire Kathy , Wong Andrew I. , Tatham Michael H. , Anderson Oliver F. , Ripsman David , Gulstene Stephanie , Moffat Jason , Hay Ronald T. , Frappier Lori
Published: December 2015

Promyelocytic leukemia (PML) protein forms the basis of PML nuclear bodies (PML NBs), which control many important processes. We have screened an shRNA library targeting ubiquitin pathway proteins for effects on PML NBs, and identified RNF8 and RNF168 DNA-damage response proteins as negative regulators of PML NBs. Additional studies confirmed that depletion of either RNF8 or RNF168 increased the levels of PML NBs and proteins, whereas overexpression induced loss of PML NBs. RNF168 partially localized to PML NBs through its UMI/MIU1 ubiquitin-interacting region and associated with NBs formed by any PML isoform. The association of RNF168 with PML NBs resulted in increased ubiquitylation and SUMO2 modification of PML. In addition, RNF168 was found to associate with proteins modified by SUMO2 and/or SUMO3 in a manner dependent on its ubiquitin-binding sequences, suggesting that hybrid SUMO–ubiquitin chains can be bound. In vitro assays confirmed that RNF168, preferentially, binds hybrid SUMO2–K63 ubiquitin chains compared with K63–ubiquitin chains or individual SUMO2. Our study identified previously unrecognized roles for RNF8 and RNF168 in the regulation of PML, and a so far unknown preference of RNF168 for hybrid SUMO–ubiquitin chains.
Interaction between MyRIP and the actin cytoskeleton regulates Weibel–Palade body trafficking and exocytosis
Authors: Conte Ianina L. , Hellen Nicola , Bierings Ruben , Mashanov Gregory I. , Manneville Jean-Baptiste , Kiskin Nikolai I. , Hannah Matthew J. , Molloy Justin E. , Carter Tom
Published: December 2015

Weibel–Palade body (WPB)–actin interactions are essential for the trafficking and secretion of von Willebrand factor; however, the molecular basis for this interaction remains poorly defined. Myosin Va (MyoVa or MYO5A) is recruited to WPBs by a Rab27A–MyRIP complex and is thought to be the prime mediator of actin binding, but direct MyRIP–actin interactions can also occur. To evaluate the specific contribution of MyRIP–actin and MyRIP–MyoVa binding in WPB trafficking and Ca2+-driven exocytosis, we used EGFP–MyRIP point mutants with disrupted MyoVa and/or actin binding and high-speed live-cell fluorescence microscopy. We now show that the ability of MyRIP to restrict WPB movement depends upon its actin-binding rather than its MyoVa-binding properties. We also show that, although the role of MyRIP in Ca2+-driven exocytosis requires both MyoVa- and actin-binding potential, it is the latter that plays a dominant role. In view of these results and together with the analysis of actin disruption or stabilisation experiments, we propose that the role of MyRIP in regulating WPB trafficking and exocytosis is mediated largely through its interaction with actin rather than with MyoVa.
Haemoglobin degradation underpins the sensitivity of early ring stage Plasmodium falciparum to artemisinins
Authors: Xie Stanley C. , Dogovski Con , Hanssen Eric , Chiu Francis , Yang Tuo , Crespo Maria P. , Stafford Che , Batinovic Steven , Teguh Silvia , Charman Susan , Klonis Nectarios , Tilley Leann
Published: December 2015

Current first-line artemisinin antimalarials are threatened by the emergence of resistant Plasmodium falciparum. Decreased sensitivity is evident in the initial (early ring) stage of intraerythrocytic development, making it critical to understand the action of artemisinins at this stage. We examined the roles of iron and haem in artemisinin activation in early rings using iron chelators and a specific haemoglobinase inhibitor (E64d). Quantitative modelling of the antagonism accounted for its complex dependence on chemical features of the artemisinins and on the drug exposure time, and showed that almost all artemisinin activity in early rings (>80%) is due to haem-mediated activation. The surprising implication that haemoglobin uptake and digestion is active in early rings is supported by identification of active haemoglobinases (falcipains) at this stage. Genetic down-modulation of the expression of the two main cysteine protease haemoglobinases, falcipains 2 and 3, renders early ring stage parasites resistant to artemisinins. This confirms the important role of haemoglobin-degrading falcipains in artemisinin activation, and shows that changes in the rate of artemisinin activation could mediate high-level artemisinin resistance.
Special: Theme of Clean Coal How Policy Strategies Affect Clean Coal Technology Innovation in China? A Patent-Based Approach
Authors: Li Ke , Lin Boqiang , Liu Xiying
Published: December 2015

Achieving coal usage by low-carbon ways through clean technologies could be one of the possible ways to meet the rapid growth of China's energy demand, and also mitigate the environmental deterioration. This paper first presented the important role of coal in China's energy system and the environmental issues caused by coal consumption, and then analyzed the development status of clean coal technologies (CCTs) in China. Then, a structural VAR model is adopted to assess the impacts of coal price, R&D activities and GDP/emissions shocks on CCTs. The results indicate that the unexpected coal price shock and R&D shock could increase the ratio of clean coal patents to energy patents in short term, while a GDP/emissions shock has an opposite effect. However, these effects are not long lasting. Finally, suggestions about coal price and government funds for R&D activities are given so as to promote development of CCTs in China.
Multiple protein–protein interactions converging on the Prp38 protein during activation of the human spliceosome
Authors: Schütze Tonio , Ulrich Alexander K.C. , Apelt Luise , Will Cindy L. , Bartlick Natascha , Seeger Martin , Weber Gert , Lührmann Reinhard , Stelzl Ulrich , Wahl Markus C.
Published: December 2015

Spliceosomal Prp38 proteins contain a conserved amino-terminal domain, but only higher eukaryotic orthologs also harbor a carboxy-terminal RS domain, a hallmark of splicing regulatory SR proteins. We show by crystal structure analysis that the amino-terminal domain of human Prp38 is organized around three pairs of antiparallel α-helices and lacks similarities to RNA-binding domains found in canonical SR proteins. Instead, yeast two-hybrid analyses suggest that the amino-terminal domain is a versatile protein–protein interaction hub that possibly binds 12 other spliceosomal proteins, most of which are recruited at the same stage as Prp38. By quantitative, alanine surface-scanning two-hybrid screens and biochemical analyses we delineated four distinct interfaces on the Prp38 amino-terminal domain. In vitro interaction assays using recombinant proteins showed that Prp38 can bind at least two proteins simultaneously via two different interfaces. Addition of excess Prp38 amino-terminal domain to in vitro splicing assays, but not of an interaction-deficient mutant, stalled splicing at a precatalytic stage. Our results show that human Prp38 is an unusual SR protein, whose amino-terminal domain is a multi-interface protein–protein interaction platform that might organize the relative positioning of other proteins during splicing.
Regulation of IL-10 and IL-12 production and function in macrophages and dendritic cells
Authors: Ma Xiaojing , Yan Wenjun , Zheng Hua , Du Qinglin , Zhang Lixing , Ban Yi , Li Na , Wei Fang
Published: December 2015

Interleukin-10 and Interleukin-12 are produced primarily by pathogen-activated antigen-presenting cells, particularly macrophages and dendritic cells. IL-10 and IL-12 play very important immunoregulatory roles in host defense and immune homeostasis. Being anti- and pro-inflammatory in nature, respectively, their functions are antagonistically opposing. A comprehensive and in-depth understanding of their immunological properties and signaling mechanisms will help develop better clinical intervention strategies in therapy for a wide range of human disorders. Here, we provide an update on some emerging concepts, controversies, unanswered questions, and opinions regarding the immune signaling of IL-10 and IL-12.
Recent Advances in Preventing Adverse Reactions to Transfusion
Authors: Rogers Thomas S , Fung Mark K , Harm Sarah K
Published: December 2015

The spectrum of adverse reactions to blood product transfusion ranges from a benign clinical course to serious morbidity and mortality.  There have been many advances in technologies and transfusion strategies to decrease the risk of adverse reactions. Our aim is to address a few of the advancements in increasing the safety of the blood supply, specifically pathogen reduction technologies, bacterial contamination risk reduction, and transfusion associated acute lung injury risk mitigation strategies.
The manufacture of filtered cannabis cigarettes: uniform particle distribution and combustion properties for consistent cannabinoid delivery
Authors: Cranford Jason A. , Cooper Donald C.
Published: December 2015

Here we describe a manufacturing process for the production of commercial filtered Cranfords cannabis cigarettes (CN). Unlike production of filtered tobacco cigarettes, standardization in the manufacture of cannabinoid containing cigarettes is lacking. The numerous cannabis strains with variable cannabinoid content, differences in cultivation methods and variability in assembly associated with hand-rolled cannabis cigarettes makes consistent cannabinoid inhalation dosing challenging. To address the growing need for standardization in the manufacture of cannabis cigarettes we developed a process for the production of filtered CN using machine-rolled tobacco cigarette equipment. The processed CN packing density, particle size distribution and curing procedures were designed to produce filtered CN that were identical in appearance and qualitatively similar in combustion properties to market-leading filtered commercial tobacco cigarettes. Quality control procedures were implemented to assure consistency in the manufacturing process and minimize variability associated with cigarette production such as inconsistencies in packing density, particle size, and combustion rate of mainstream smoke. Passive inverted smoldering assessment indicated that CN cigarettes burned at a faster rate compared to commercial filtered tobacco cigarettes of similar density. Overall, it is expected that machine-rolled standardized cannabis cigarettes with control over filler particle sizes, packing density and smoldering rates will contribute to making inhalation dosing of cannabis cigarettes more effective for therapeutic use.
Obesity: a growing threat to liver health
Authors: Williams Bronwen , Clayton Michelle , Bosanquet Joanne
Published: December 2015

Obesity is a major contributing factor to the burden of liver disease. Consequently, approximately 50% of overweight or obese people will have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with 15–20% also developing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which is known to cause liver cirrhosis. Rates of obesity in the UK vary according to region and are affected by socioeconomic status, ethnicity and lifestyle choices. Obesity is usually attributed to overeating, dietary choices and lack of physical exercise; however certain groups may have a genetic disposition for the development of NAFLD. NAFLD is poorly recognised and there should be an index of suspicion in all individuals who have obesity (particularly abdominal), type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or features of metabolic syndrome. NAFLD is now a disease affecting both adults and children. As such it is even more important for nurses to strengthen their roles as health educators to tackle this growing epidemic, not only for this generation, but also for the next, to ensure liver health is at the top of our health promotion and education agenda.
Take a shine to it
Authors: Williams Brenda
Published: December 2015

Brenda Williams’ poem is the perfect invitation for children to explore all things shiny. Use it to foster their skills of observation and help them to represent their own ideas through reflections and collage.
Heat: The cold facts
Authors: White Hilary
Published: December 2015

Temperature awareness is an essential part of human survival. Help children develop their understanding and refine their thermic sense through activities exploring heat and cold.
What's in a box?
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: December 2015

This is the final article of a series on 3D shapes, focusing on cubes and cuboids. The following creative activities will help children use mixed media to explore their characteristics.
Showing your teeth
Authors: Hampshire Viv
Published: December 2015

Reducing tooth decay in children is one of the major public health priorities. Help children to develop their self-care skills with stories and activities that focus on looking after their teeth.
Territorialidad cooperativa y campesina del Movimiento de los trabajadores rurales Sin Tierra (MST) de Brasil
Authors: Ortiz Pérez Samuel
Published: December 2015

En enero de 1984, en el municipio de Cascavel, situado en la región más occidental del estado de Paraná (Brasil), se constituyó formalmente el Movimiento de los trabajadores rurales Sin Tierra, el MST. Su relevancia geográfica, histórica, económica y social queda cristalizada en su dinámica de territorialización, protagonizada por los asentamientos de reforma agraria, las cooperativas de producción y comercialización, y sus agroindustrias, así como por sus escuelas de formación. Se potencia con todo ello la defensa y viabilidad de una agricultura familiar y campesina, asentada en la práctica de la agroecología. El devenir de este proceso conforma un fenómeno geográfico de extraordinaria magnitud hacia la producción de una alternativa social y espacial.
La riada del Turia de 1731. Una aproximación a la literatura de la catástrofe
Authors: Faus Prieto Alfredo
Published: December 2015

Los sucesos naturales de carácter extraordinario que se han sucedido a lo largo de la historia han dejado tras de sí un gran legado documental. Fenómenos como los terremotos, las erupciones volcánicas, las sequías, las plagas, etc. han constituido desde siempre un motivo de preocupación para las poblaciones expuestas y una ocasión para desatar la imaginación de los cronistas. En el caso de la ciudad de Valencia, ningún fenómeno natural ha influido tanto en su historia como las avenidas recurrentes del río Turia. Una de ellas, la riada extraordinaria de septiembre de 1731, quedó registrada en documentos de todo tipo que pueden englobarse bajo la denominación común de literatura de la catástrofe. En este artículo se analizan cuatro relaciones impresas del suceso y dos dietarios personales manuscritos, en un intento de ampliar los datos conocidos del desastre y, sobre todo, de enmarcarlo en el contexto social y político en el que tuvo lugar.
El proyecto del Canal del Algar de Francisco Morell: una iniciativa temprana del regeneracionismo hidráulico en Alicante
Authors: Romero Pastor Antonio José
Published: December 2015

Por sus características climáticas, en la región mediterránea del sureste han tenido históricamente destacado protagonismo las obras y proyectos hidráulicos. La hegemonía que mantiene la actividad agrícola en España, aún en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX, por el retraso en la adopción de los modelos industriales, favoreció, al amparo de un incipiente liberalismo, modelos de crecimiento económico de corte agrarista en los que el regadío y las obras hidráulicas fueron elementos destacados. En la provincia de Alicante, el proyecto del Canal del Algar del arquitecto valenciano Francisco Morell es un ejemplo. El presente artículo trata de justificar cómo, en Alicante, y favorecido por este contexto, aparece en 1866 el Proyecto de un canal de riego que anticipa, en muchos de sus planteamientos y propuestas, la ideología del movimiento regeneracionista.
Interactions between soil water conditions and forest stands in boreal forests with implications for ditch network maintenance
Authors: Sikström Ulf , Hökkä Hannu
Published: December 2015

At sites with either peat or mineral soils in large areas of boreal forests, high soil-water contents hamper tree growth and drainage can significantly increase growth. Hence, areas covering about 15 Ã 10 ha of northern peatlands and wet mineral soils have been drained for forestry purposes. Usually ditches gradually deteriorate, thus reducing their functionality as drains, and ditch-network maintenance (DNM) might be needed to maintain stand growth rates enabled by the original ditching. This article reviews current knowledge on establishing the need for DNM in boreal forest stands, subsequent growth responses, and the financial outcome of the activity. The issues covered in the review are: (i) ditching, changes in ditches over time and the need for DNM; (ii) interactions between soil water and both stand properties and stand management; (iii) ground-water level (GWL) and tree growth responses to DNM; and (iv) financial viability of DNM. Conclusions about the current understanding of issues related to DNM are drawn and implications for DNM in practice are summarized. Finally, gaps in knowledge are identified and research needs are suggested.6
Causes of tax evasion in Tunisia: a survey study
Authors: NEIFAR Souhir
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this paper is to examine the causes of tax evasion in Tunisia. The paper uses the survey methodology. We use a sample of 101 participants divided into three major groups: business students’ participants, medicine students’ participants and other students’ participants. The results show that medicine students’ participants are more opposed to tax evasion than the other participants (business and others). We find also that women are more opposed to such a behavior.

While our research unprecedentedly deals with the motivations tax evasion in Tunisia, other researchers have examined this issue analyzing other contexts. The addition of other statements to this survey will enrich the list of causes of tax evasion; other economical and sociological variables will be taken into account. Our findings can be valuable to both researchers and Tunisian regulators. For researchers, this research helps to understand the motivations of tax evasion in the Tunisian context. As far as regulators are concerned, this research highlights the reduction of the tax rates as possible cure.
Causes of tax evasion in Tunisia: a survey study
Influence of pH modifiers on the dissolution and stability of hydrochlorothiazide in the bi- and three-layer tablets
Authors: Blatnik Sandra Urek , Dreu Rok , Srčič Stanko
Published: December 2015

During the past few years, the studies of bi- and multi-layered tablets increased due to the consumption of several different drugs per day by a patient and requests for appropriate patient compliance. The demographic shift toward older population increases the use of combination therapy as polypharmacy. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), as a model drug, is most commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, congestive heart failure and as a diuretic. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of the local environment on dissolution and stability behaviour of HCTZ in fixed multilayered tablet combinations, which are commonly used in polypharmacy. For this purposes, three different systems were introduced: (i) two conventional tablets (HCTZ and pH modifying placebo), (ii) 2-layer tablets (HCTZ, pH modifying placebo) and (iii) 3-layer tablets (HCTZ, barrier and pH modifying placebo). Disintegration of tablets, dissolution of HCTZ from tablets and HCTZ related substances were monitored for all systems. Results showed that there was a significant difference between dissolution profiles of the conventional two-tablet system (HCTZ tablet and pH modifying tablet) and the 2-layer and 3-layer tablets, which include the pH modifying layer. In the case of the conventional two-tablets system, 85 % of HCTZ was dissolved in less than 15 minutes. The dissolution profiles of HCTZ from 2-layered and 3-layered tablets showed a decrease in the dissolution rate. In addition, during the stability studies, it has been confirmed that the typical degradation product of HCTZ is formed, impurity B (4-amino-6-chloro-1,3-benzenedisulfonamide), which implies formation of formaldehyde as hydrolytic impurity not reported in the Ph. Eur. (16). Both impurities are particularly raised in 2-layered tablets with alkaline and neutral placebo layers. Stability of HCTZ was improved in the case of the 3-layer tablet, where the intermediate separation layer of glycerol monostearate was present. It is presumed that the HCTZ dissolution rate was decreased due to formation of non-soluble substances as a result of HCTZ degradation in the presence of alkaline layer.
Nitrones: not only extraordinary spin traps, but also good nitric oxide sources in vivo
Authors: Croitoru Mircea Dumitru , Petkes Hermina Iulia , Fülöp Ibolya , Cotârlan Remus , Şerban Oana Elena , Dogaru Titica Maria , Gâz Florea Şerban Andrei , Tőkés Béla , Majdik Cornelia
Published: December 2015

Free radicals are involved in the development of reperfusion injuries. Using a spin trap, the intensity of such lesions can be reduced. Nitrones (effective in vivo spin traps) were tried in this work as in vivo nitric oxide donors. Nitrite and nitrate concentration values (rabbit blood) were used as biomarkers of nitric oxide production. Most nitrones did not increase plasma concentrations of nitrite and nitrate; on the contrary, reduced plasma concentrations of these indicators were noted. However, glyoxal isopropyldinitrone, in a dose of 50 mg kg-1, was highly effective in increasing nitric oxide production. At the same time, nitrones do not react with hepatic homogenates, proving that the release of nitric oxide takes place in the tissues and is not related to hepatic metabolism. Before using nitrones in vivo, they were tested in vitro for the ability to release nitric oxide following a reaction with the hydroxyl radical.
Modulation of brain glutamate dehydrogenase as a tool for controlling seizures
Authors: Rasgado Lourdes A. Vega , Reyes Guillermo Ceballos , Díaz Fernando Vega
Published: December 2015

Glutamate (Glu) is a major excitatory neurotransmitter involved in epilepsy. Glu is synthesized by glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH, E.C. 1.4.1.3) and dysfunction of the enzymatic activity of GDH is associated with brain pathologies. The main goal of this work is to establish the role of GDH in the effects of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) such as valproate (VALP), diazepam (DIAZ) and diphenylhydantoin (DPH) and its repercussions on oxygen consumption. Oxidative deamination of Glu and reductive amination of aketoglutarate (αK) in mice brain were investigated. Our results show that AEDs decrease GDH activity and oxygen consumption in vitro. In ex vivo experiments, AEDs increased GDH activity but decreased oxygen consumption during Glu oxidative deamination. VALP and DPH reversed the increase in reductive amination of αK caused by the chemoconvulsant pentylenetetrazol. These results suggest that AEDs act by modulating brain GDH activity, which in turn decreased oxygen consumption. GDH represents an important regulation point of neuronal excitability, and modulation of its activity represents a potential target for metabolic treatment of epilepsy and for the development of new AEDs.
Facile heterocyclic synthesis and antimicrobial activity of polysubstituted and condensed pyrazolopyranopyrimidine and pyrazolopyranotriazine derivatives
Authors: Hafez Hend N. , Alshammari Abdulrahman G. , El-Gazzar Abdel-Rhman B. A.
Published: December 2015

Reaction of 6-amino-3-methyl-4-(substituted phenyl)-1,4- dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole-5-carbonitrile (1) with triethylorthoformate followed by treatment with hydrazine hydrate, formic acid, acetic acid, phenylisocyanate, ammonium thiocyanate and formamide afforded the corresponding pyranopyrimidine derivatives 2-6. Cyclocondensation of 1 with cyclohexanone afforded pyrazolopyranoquinoline 7. One-pot process of diazotation and de-diazochlorination of 1 afforded pyrazolopyranotriazine derivative 8, which upon treatment with secondary amines afforded 9 and 10a- c. Condensation of 2 with aromatic aldehyde gave the corresponding Schiff bases 11a,b, the oxidative cyclization of the hydrazone with appropriate oxidant afforded 11-(4- fluorophenyl))- 2-(4-substituted phenyl)-10-methyl-8,11-dihydropyrazolo-[ 4’,3’:5,6]pyrano[3,2-e][1,2,4]triazolo[1,5-c]pyrimidines (12a,b). Structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by spectral data and elemental analysis. All synthesized compounds were evaluated for antibacterial and antifungal activities compared to norfloxacin and fluconazole as standard drugs. Compounds 9, 10c, 12a and 15 were found to be the most potent antibacterial agents, with activity equal to that of norfloxacin. On the other hand, compound 5 exhibited higher antifungal activity compared to fluconazole.