bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of local knowledge towards urban agroforestry as a sustainable approach on climate change adaptation
Authors: Irisha Jim Ilham Jasmin , Esa Norizan
Published: June 2018

A crucial role in climate change adaptation is the one that should be played by cities. These are major contributors to climate change as well as most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. As urban population in cities increases, so does the greenhouse gas emissions. Urbanisation and the growth of cities continues at great speed, and today the global urban population has increased nine fold since 100 years ago. Though presented with current challenges and threats such as environmental degradation, urban poverty and food security, urban density could create a better quality of life and a lower carbon footprint by innovative approach and more efficient infrastructure planning. Creative solutions are implemented as part of the sustainability component of an integrated, climate resilient city, which comprises of fundamental aspects such as food, water, energy and transport. Application of local knowledge on agroforestry can be utilized in an urban setting, and has positive impacts on a microclimate scale, such as reduces impact of higher rainfall, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and reduces vulnerability on the urban poor. Urban agroforestry largely contributes to sustainable urban food production opportunities, and encompasses four main fields of practice, including agroecology, urban forestry, urban agriculture and permaculture. This paper examines the local knowledge of agroforestry and how the local knowledge can be transferred into practice in an urban setting, thus providing a sustainable approach towards climate change adaptation in cities.
Tropical Wetland Valuation: An influence of local knowledge in Malay traditional ecosystem for human well-being
Authors: Mastura Rosli Farah , Salleh Anizah , Fadhlullah Widad , Hakimi Ibrahim Mahamad , Esa Norizan
Published: June 2018

Tropical wetlands are among the most productive ecosystems on earth which provide vital services and consist of various types of plant and animal communities that live in the water and on land. However, this golden area is one of the most undervalued ecosystems and the awareness on protecting the areas is still lacking among communities. The aim of this study was to review the wetland services in a tropical climate which functions to complete the ecosystem. In particular, this study will i) explore the values of wetland ecosystem towards human well-being in tropical culture and ii) to design a complete wetland ecosystem with respect to the local knowledge in a tropical climate. This study indicates that the new millennium of ecosystem services provided by tropical wetland has been disaggregated into provisioning of goods; regulating services, cultural development and supporting the process by considering the influence of Malay traditional wetland. Therefore, a complete tropical ecosystem is designed by imitating the natural wetland for societal well-being.
Authentication of a selected medicinal plants using DNA barcoding technique
Authors: Che Husin Che Nasriyyah , Md. Naim Darlina , Ahmad Mardiana Idayu
Published: June 2018

Plants are valuable source of a medicine and have long being used to cure various ailments. However, the efficacy of drugs derived from plant depends on the reliable identification of correct plants. To avoids the usage of incorrect plant that can cause poisoning, a reliable method than morphological characteristic is required. DNA barcoding technique have shown to be an efficient tool for species identification by using a short fragment of the genomic DNA and has been used widely in molecular plant taxonomy for authentication of medicinal plants species. Thus, the goal of this study was to use DNA barcoding technique to discriminate medicinal plants. DNA samples were extracted from twenty medicinal plants, chosen based on their therapeutic efficacy and were used as templates. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) gene was selected to be the best molecular marker for identification purposes. The efficiency of the amplification by polymerase chain reaction was sending for sequencing and species identification was performed using MEGA6. Our findings show that DNA barcoding is an efficient tool for plants identification. This study revealed that medicinal plant and their closely related species can be distinguished by using DNA barcoding technique with ITS2 region as it is an efficient marker and potential DNA marker for authentication of selected plants.
Adaptability to Settlement Pattern and Choice of Subsistence Activities: Emergence of Material Culture within the Saribas Malay in Betong, Sarawak
Authors: Sahari Faridah , Durin Anna , Hasan Rahah , Ahmad Zaidi Adruce Shahren , Abdul Rahman Shahri
Published: June 2018

Despite many job opportunities in the market and the challenges they have to face, some minority of the Saribas Malay community in Betong, Sarawak is still maintaining traditional subsistence activities in food production based on the nipah tree (locally known as apong) such as gula apong, garam apong cuka apong, jarik mayang, air sadap and the sago tree (locally known as mulong) produce, lemantak. This research examines the choice of subsistence strategies and settlement pattern of the Malay community who inhabit the Saribas region. Through the in-depth interview and participant observation, the finding suggested that reliance on a river as the main highway to connect them to the other parts of Sarawak and river as a source of marine resources determine the choice of linear settlement pattern along the river. The results also suggest that river terrestrial resources; apong and mulong accessibility and abundance availability that influence the community in continuing the traditional subsistence activities (apong and mulong based food production) related to those flora source. As such, the assemblage of material culture that exist within the Saribas Malay community is the representation and manifestation of their choice of settlement pattern and subsistence activities.
Community restructuring and sociocultural interaction identity of orang laut (kuala) in the state of Johor
Authors: Syafiqha Mohd. Sayuti Maryam , Azman Awang Pawi Awang , Omar Jamilah
Published: June 2018

This study will look at how this process occurs among the Orang Laut (Kuala) in Johor. This study was carried out to analyse the restructuring of the community and the identification of indigeneous ethnic (Orang Laut) socialcultural interactions in Rengit, Minyak Beku and Kota Masai Johor. In particular, the study will involve aspects of the sociocultural life of the Orang Kuala Rengit, Minyak Beku and Kota Masai Johor, which include languages, economic activities, customs, and practices that are still practiced and things that have been modified in accordance with the factors around them. Analysing the process of adaptation is done closely by relating the process of interactions within groups, local communities, government agencies and the adaptation patterns that occurred. Besides that, the sustainability and the preservation of ethnic cultures of Orang Kuala in the social system as a whole and their impact on the development of the structure of community are examined. Qualitative method is used assisted by other study materials obtained such as field work, observation, ethnographic which are reinforced with library research such as documents and other materials related. This paper will cover the restructuring process by explaining the concepts, books and previous research reviewed by the researcher.
Functions and Uses of the Sarawak Malay Proverbs
Authors: bin Abang Muhi Abang Patdeli
Published: June 2018

Proverbs are the integral part of spiritual treasures of the culture and language of the people, the age-old wisdom and skills used by them. Proverbs are also an interesting pieces of popular wisdom and tradition belonging to any culture, which help us to foreground the values a shared beliefs held by a speech community. By applying Sperber and Wilson’s Relevance Theory, this dissertation research aims to analyze the functions and uses of Sarawak Malays’ proverbs which up to now received very little attention amongst the local researchers. Besides, the application of this theory has successfully explains how the proverbs allow the speaker to express his or her intentions, feelings and insights in an implicit way and tacit manner. The findings demonstrate that the main functions of the Sarawak Malays’ proverbs are criticism, advice, warning, educating, sarcasm and insinuation which also reflect the wisdoms and wits of the Sarawak Malays. This research also offered an explanation of how the often ironical, metaphorical and figurative nature of the proverbs significantly affects their understanding. In addition, I have also studied the use of ellipsis in the familiar proverbs as well as found out the existence of various types of proverbs amongst the Sarawak Malays’ community. Ultimately, the conclusions of the research are to attain a better comprehension of the functions and uses of the Sarawak Malays’ proverbs
Die Bedeutung der intraoperativen optischen Kohärenztomografie (MI-OCT) bei der Behandlung von Hornhautdystrophien
Authors: Siebelmann Sebastian , Matthaei Mario , Heindl Ludwig , Bachmann Björn , Cursiefen Claus
Published: June 2018

Hintergrund Die chirurgische Behandlung von Hornhautdystrophien entwickelt sich mit zunehmender Anwendung von lamellären Techniken der Hornhauttransplantation rasant weiter. War vor einigen Jahren noch die penetrierende Keratoplastik der Goldstandard zur Therapie einer Vielzahl von Dystrophien, so können heutzutage selektiv die betroffenen Schichten der Hornhaut ersetzt oder mittels Lasertechnik abladiert werden. Einen besonderen Stellenwert nimmt für diese Verfahren die optische Kohärenztomografie ein, die neuerdings auch in Operationsmikroskope integriert sein kann (MI-OCT).

Methoden Literaturübersicht aus PubMed und Google.scholar.de ergänzt mit eigenen Bildgebungsdaten.

Ergebnisse Die MI-OCT ermöglicht das intraoperative Echtzeit-Monitoring unterschiedlicher ophthalmochirurgischer Prozeduren wie der tiefen, anterioren lamellären Keratoplastik, der Descemet-Membran-Endothel-Keratoplastik (DMEK), aber auch minimalinvasiver Verfahren wie der phototherapeutischen Keratektomie (PTK). Darüber hinaus ermöglicht sie eine Evaluation der Hornhaut wie auch der Vorderkammer, insbesondere in Situationen einer getrübten Hornhaut.

Schlussfolgerung Die mikroskopintegrierte intraoperative optische Kohärenztomografie (MI-OCT) stellt eine sinnvolle Ergänzung zum normalen Operationsmikroskop dar. Sie ist insbesondere bei bereits stark getrübten Hornhäuten dem alleinigen Operationsmikroskop überlegen und stellt gerade bei neuartigen lamellären Transplantationsverfahren eine sinnvolle Ergänzung dar. Randomisierte prospektive Studien sind nötig, um die erhöhte Sicherheit und gesteigerte Effektivität durch den Einsatz der MI-OCT bei verschiedenen Indikationen zu belegen.
Wissenschaftliches Schreiben
Authors: Bagusche Stefan , Karstens Sven
Published: June 2018

Hintergrund Wer seine Forschungsergebnisse zu einem Fachzeitschriftenaufsatz zusammenfassen möchte, muss eine Reihe von Vorgaben zur inhaltlichen, formalen und stilistischen Gestaltung des Manuskripts beachten.

Ziel Der 3. Teil der Ratgeberserie zum wissenschaftlichen Schreiben stellt einige dieser Anforderungen und Regeln vor. Ihre Einhaltung soll sicherstellen, dass die Textinhalte leicht nachzuvollziehen und zu prüfen sind.

Methode Auf ausgewählte Literatur rückgreifend und ausgehend von einem normativen Modell werden zunächst die Möglichkeiten umrissen, den Basistext eines Fachartikels zu strukturieren und mit Inhalten zu füllen. Anschließend werden gängige Gestaltungsregeln für die Elemente des Paratextes wie Titel oder Abstract aufgelistet. Abgerundet wird die Ausführung mit Tipps zum Schreibstil und Erstellungsprozess.

Ergebnisse Die an Aufbau, Inhalt und Formulierung eines Manuskripts gestellten Anforderungen sind kein Selbstzweck, sondern lassen sich dem wissenschaftlichen Programm unterordnen, gemeinschaftlich wahre und gehaltvolle Aussagen über Ausschnitte der Wirklichkeit zu finden.

Schlussfolgerung Um die Chancen auf die Veröffentlichung eines Manuskripts zu erhöhen, gilt es, sich mit den von Seiten der Verlage und der wissenschaftlichen Gemeinschaft für Fachtexte entwickelten und eingeführten Standards vertraut zu machen.
Psychological Symptoms and Well-Being After Treatment for Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Velema Marieke , Terlouw Jannie , de Nooijer Aline , Nijkamp Marjan , Jacobs Nele , Deinum Jaap
Published: June 2018

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is an increasingly identified cause of secondary hypertension. PA can be caused by an aldosterone-producing adenoma or by bilateral adrenal hyperplasia, generally treated by adrenalectomy or mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, respectively. Recent studies suggest that PA is associated with more psychological symptoms and lower levels of well-being. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associations between subtype of PA and psychological symptoms and well-being after specific treatment. We analyzed the outcomes of the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form and the Symptom Checklist in 160 patients (mean age 57 years; 74.3% males) with PA, comparing the scores for psychological symptoms and well-being between both subtypes of PA. Additionally, we performed subgroup analyses based on gender, age, time since initiation of treatment, and co-morbidity. Moreover, we compared the results with published norm scores. Mean follow-up after adrenalectomy or start of medication was four years and two months. Depressive symptoms, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive thoughts and well-being did not differ between subtypes of PA. Subgroup analysis did not reveal any differences, except for women with bilateral adrenal hyperplasia who scored higher on the anxiety subscale than women after adrenalectomy. Compared to the general population, patients with treated PA reported more psychological symptoms. In contrast, well-being did not differ significantly from norm scores. Subtype and treatment of PA were no important determinants of psychological symptoms and well-being on the long-term. We suggest that physicians should be alert for psychological symptoms, as these were more frequently present in patients with PA.
A Risk Score Model for Evaluation and Management of Patients with Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Zhang Yongwen , Meng Fanrong , Hong Lianqing , Chu Lanfang
Published: June 2018

The study is aimed to establish a simplified and practical tool for analyzing thyroid nodules. A novel risk score model was designed, risk factors including patient history, patient characteristics, physical examination, symptoms of compression, thyroid function, ultrasonography (US) of thyroid and cervical lymph nodes were evaluated and classified into high risk factors, intermediate risk factors, and low risk factors. A total of 243 thyroid nodules in 162 patients were assessed with risk score system and Thyroid Imaging-Reporting and Data System (TI-RADS). The diagnostic performance of risk score system and TI-RADS was compared. The accuracy in the diagnosis of thyroid nodules was 89.3% for risk score system, 74.9% for TI-RADS respectively. The specificity, accuracy and positive predictive value (PPV) of risk score system were significantly higher than the TI-RADS system (χ2=26.287, 17.151, 11.983; p <0.05), statistically significant differences were not observed in the sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV) between the risk score system and TI-RADS (χ2=1.276, 0.290; p>0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) for risk score diagnosis system was 0.963, standard error 0.014, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.934–0.991, the AUC for TI-RADS diagnosis system was 0.912 with standard error 0.021, 95% CI=0.871–0.953, the AUC for risk score system was significantly different from that of TI-RADS (Z=2.02; p <0.05). Risk score model is a reliable, simplified and cost-effective diagnostic tool used in diagnosis of thyroid cancer. The higher the score is, the higher the risk of malignancy will be.
In-vitro Equilibrium Phosphate Binding Study of Sevelamer Carbonate by UV-Vis Spectrophotometry
Authors: Prasaja Budi , Syabani M. , Sari Endah , Chilmi Uci , Cahyaningsih Prawitasari , Kosasih Theresia
Published: June 2018

Sevelamer carbonate is a cross-linked polymeric amine; it is the active ingredient in Renvela® tablets. US FDA provides recommendation for demonstrating bioequivalence for the development of a generic product of sevelamer carbonte using in-vitro equilibrium binding study. A simple UV-vis spectrophotometry method was developed and validated for quantification of free phosphate to determine the binding parameter constant of sevelamer. The method validation demonstrated the specificity, limit of quantification, accuracy and precision of measurements. The validated method has been successfully used to analyze samples in in-vitro equilibrium binding study for demonstrating bioequivalence.
Endoscopic-Assisted Radial Forearm Free Flap Harvest: A Novel Technique to Reduce Donor Site Morbidity
Authors: Van Kouwenberg Emily , Yan Alan , Patel Ashit , McLaughlin Rick , Northrup Patricia , Cintron Melanie , Agag Richard
Published: June 2018

Background The radial forearm free flap (RFFF) remains a workhorse flap but can have significant donor site morbidity. The authors developed a novel technique for endoscopic-assisted RFFF (ERFFF) harvest and hypothesized improved donor site morbidity.

Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted evaluating patients who underwent ERFFF or RFFF by a single surgeon for head and neck reconstruction between November 2011 and July 2016; outcomes and complications were compared. A telephone survey was conducted to assess patient satisfaction with donor site appearance and function.

Results Twenty-seven ERFFF and 13 RFFF harvests were performed. The cephalic vein was less commonly incorporated in ERFFF patients compared with RFFF patients (3.70 and 38.46%, respectively, p = 0.0095). ERFFF patients had lower rates of wound healing complications (0% vs. 15.38%, p = 0.10) and perfusion-related complications than RFFF patients (3.70% vs. 23.08%, p = 0.092). Fewer ERFFF patients reported a desire for a more normal appearance (42.86% vs. 71.43%, p = 0.361). The ERFFF group had a higher functional score (64.29% vs. 44.44%, p = 0.101), reporting lower rates of associated discomfort (35.71% vs. 85.71%, p = 0.063). None of the differences in rates of complications or patient-reported outcomes between the groups reached statistical significance.

Conclusion ERFFF is safe and effective alternative to RFFF, with similar operative time, similar pedicle safety, and elimination of the lengthy forearm incision. Unnecessary cephalic vein dissection can be avoided with endoscopic visualization of the venae comitantes. Further research with a larger sample size and better standardization is needed to assess effects on donor-site morbidity.
The Effect of Macroglobulins and their Dissociation Units on Release of Platelet Factor 3
Authors: Pachter M. R , Johnson S. A , Basinski D. H
Published: June 2018

The effect of the macroglobulins on the release of platelet factor 3 has been reviewed (Fig. 3). It has been shown that dissociation units of native macro-globulins fail to exert any deleterious effect upon platelets. Evidence is presented to support the theory that molecular size is of paramount importance in preventing platelet factor 3 release.
The Part Played by Platelets in the Formation of an Efficient Hemostatic Plug
Authors: Roskam J , Hugues J , Bounameaux Y , Salmon J
Published: June 2018

The arrest of bleeding from small arteries or veins depends on the formation of a hemostatic plug made of platelets. In spite of recent information on the conditions required for platelet adhesion to various foreign surfaces, little is known about the precise mechanism of platelet adhesion to the lips of the vessel wound. The effectiveness of the hemostatic plug is due to the viscous metamorphosis of the agglutinated platelets.
Aminosäuren in normalen menschlichen Thrombozyten
Authors: Gerok Wolfgang , Gross Rudolf
Published: June 2018

Durch Eluationschromatographie an Ionenaustauschern wurden 6 AS-Gruppen und die Iminosäure Prolin in Thrombozyten quantitativ bestimmt. Der größte molare Anteil der AS entfällt auf die Gruppe der Monoaminodicarbon-säuren. Thrombozyten enthalten in hoher Konzentration Taurin.
Standardisierter Computer-basiert-organisierter Report des EEG (SCORE) – Eine strukturierende Form der EEG-Befundung
Authors: Schmitt F , Aurlien H , Brøgger J , Hirsch L , Schomer D , Trinka E , Pressler R , Wennberg R , Visser G , Eisermann M , Diehl B , Lesser R , Kaplan P , The Tich S , Lee J , Martins-da-Silva A , Stefan H , Neufeld M , Rubboli G , Fabricius M , Gardella E , Terney D , Meritam P , Eichele T , Asano E , Cox F , van Emde Boas W , Mameniskiene R , Marusic P , Zárubová J , Rosén I , Fuglsang-Frederiksen A , Ikeda A , MacDonald D , Terada K , Ugawa Y , Zhou D , Herman S , Beniczky S
Published: June 2018

Eine 2013 von der „International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology“ gegründete Taskforce hat eine international konsensfähige EEG-Terminologie entwickelt. Im Folgenden soll das Resultat – die 2. Version des Standardized Computer-based Organized Reporting of EEG (SCORE) - vorgestellt werden. Die Terminologie wurde im Rahmen eines Softwarepaketes (SCORE-EEG) in der klinischen Praxis an über 12.000 EEGs getestet. Die Auswahl der Begriffe ist kontextabhängig: die initiale Auswahl bestimmt, welche weiteren Auswahlmöglichkeiten zur Verfügung stehen. Im Verlauf wird automatisch ein Befund erstellt und dessen Einzelmerkmale in eine Datenbank eingespeist. SCORE verfügt über Module spezifisch für die Befundung epileptischer Anfälle, sowie charakteristischer neonataler und intensivmedizinische EEG-Merkmale. SCORE ist nicht nur ein nützliches Werkzeug im ambulanten, klinischen und wissenschaftlichen Setting, es erleichtert auch Qualitätssicherung, Datenaustausch und die EEG-Aus und Weiterbildung.
Poverty and mental health: the work of the female sanitary inspectors in Bradford (c. 1901–1912)
Authors: Dale Pamela
Published: June 2018

Although there are many excellent studies of the work of pioneer women public health officers, few accounts dwell on mental health issues or discuss any relationship that such staff might have understood to exist between poverty and mental health in the early twentieth century. This is a remarkable omission considering that social and feminist historians have highlighted the problems created by the way early practitioners sought to manage poverty and arguably the poor. Drawing on records created by Female Sanitary Inspectors (FSIs) in Bradford, this study chronicles distressing economic and social conditions but also reveals encounters between the staff and people experiencing mental health problems and mental health crises. The ways in which the FSIs chose to both make and deny links between the abject poverty witnessed in the slum districts and cases of mental disorder forms an important strand to the analysis that follows. Interestingly, it is the well-being of the staff that emerges as a persistent and even over-riding concern.
FMR study of interlayer exchange coupling in FeCoB|Ta|FeCoB trilayers with in-plane anisotropy
Authors: McKinnon Tommy , Omelchenko Pavlo , Heinrich Bret , Girt Erol
Published: June 2018

In this work, we present a detailed ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) study of two FeCoB layers coupled across a Ta spacer. The structures of studied samples are FM1/Ta(d)/FM2 where FM1 is a magnetic layer composed of Fe/FeCoB, FM2 is a magnetic layer composed of FeCoB/NiFe, d is the thickness of the Ta layer in nm, and d is varied from 0.375 nm to 4 nm. The FeCoB within FM1 is strongly coupled to high saturation magnetization Fe, and the FeCoB in FM2 is strongly coupled to lower saturation magnetization NiFe in order to separate the FMR resonance positions of these two layers. This is required to determine the strength of interlayer exchange coupling (J) between FM1 and FM2. We solved a system of coupled Landau Lifshitz Gilbert equations, representing the coupled magnetic layers FM1 and FM2, and used it to fit the FMR data and determine J, magnetic anisotropy, Gilbert damping, and g-factor of each magnetic layer as a function of Ta spacer layer thickness and annealing temperature. This study reveals that the dependence of the coupling strength on the Ta thickness is the same for non-annealed samples and for those annealed at 200 °C: the coupling drops to 0 above approximately 0.475 nm and increases rapidly below 0.45 nm. For samples annealed at 300 °C coupling begins to increase below approximately 0.7 nm. It is found that the coupling between FM1 and FM2 for non-annealed samples goes to zero for a Ta thickness two times less than the spin diffusion length.
Ultra-flexible and robust transparent electrodes by embedding silver nanowires into polyimide matrix
Authors: Zhao Rong Rong , Yu Ming Shi , Wang Guan Cheng , Liu Wei , Chen Tong Lai
Published: June 2018

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) percolated films have been extensively considered as promising candidates for alternative transparent electrodes. However, due to their high surface roughness, poor adhesion and thermal stability, their practical use in transparent conducting film application is still heavily limited. In this paper, we report ultra-flexible transparent electrodes by imbedding AgNWs into polyimide (PI) thin films to achieve smooth surface, pronounced thermal stability, and high adhesion. Besides the excellent electrical conductivity of about 7-13Ω/□ in sheet resistance, the obtained AgNWs/PI films have excellent transparency and mechanical resilience due to the intrinsic physical and chemical properties of PI organic polymer. By embedding AgNWs into PI, the surface roughness of AgNWs percolated films can be reduced from 39.5 nm to 6 nm (RMS values), and the adhesion of AgNWs to PI is greatly enhanced if compared to the case of only AgNWs onto glass or plastic substrates. Additionally, the AgNWs/PI films show extraordinary stability in terms of electrical conductivity after the arbitrary twisting and thermal heating test, respectively, which are demonstrated by the electrical-thermal measurements via thermal IR imaging.
Propagation and detection of RF-modulated electron and X-ray beams in air
Authors: Harris J. R. , Harris C. N. , Miller R. B. , Myers N. T.
Published: June 2018

Electron beams produced in RF linear accelerators will naturally be modulated at the RF frequency. Here we report measurements of the RF harmonic content of a 21.6 MeV electron beam coasting in air, as well as the RF harmonic content of x-rays produced from that electron beam, and the effects of these modulated electron and x-ray beams on several fast detection systems. The RF fundamental and its higher harmonics were found to be impressed onto the x-rays generated from the electron beam, and the response of an RF waveguide to passage of the modulated x-ray signal indicated that this harmonic content was also impressed onto the secondary electrons produced by the passage of the x-rays through the waveguide. An unexpected, interference-like effect was observed, which was particularly prominent in the case of the waveguide when struck by the modulated x-rays. The participation of secondary electrons produced by passage of the x-rays through the x-ray converter upstream of the waveguide was ruled out as a significant contributor to this effect.
Particle image diffusometry: Resolving diffusion coefficient field from microscopy movie data without particle tracking
Authors: Hanasaki Itsuo , Ooi Yuto
Published: June 2018

We propose a technique to evaluate the field of diffusion coefficient for particle dispersion where the Brownian motion is heterogeneous in space and single particle tracking (SPT) analysis is hindered by high concentration of the particles and/or their small size. We realize this “particle image diffusometry” by the principle of the differential dynamic microscopy (DDM). We extend the DDM by introducing the automated objective decision of the scaling regime itself. Label-free evaluation of spatially non-uniform diffusion coefficients without SPT is useful in the diverse applications including crystal nucleation and glass transition where non-invasive observation is desired.
New Insights into Adsorption Behaviour of NH3 Molecules on Small (SiO2)n (n=2–7) Clusters Through Systematic Analysis of Structural and Topological Properties
Authors: Niu Wen-Xia , Gao Tao , Zhang Hong , Li Peng
Published: June 2018

The adsorption of NH3 molecules on (SiO2)n (n = 2–7) clusters was explored using various theoretical methods. The stable structures, interaction energies, and bonding properties for the various methods were evaluated in detail. Reactivity analysis and optimization results showed that a single NH3 molecule preferentially adheres to the Si atom at the edge of the clusters. It was also observed that the energy gap and hardness of the complexes decreased with an increase in the number of NH3 molecules. Topological, electron localization function, and atoms-in-molecules analyses were performed to investigate the bonding characteristics of these complexes. In addition, the results of this study were compared with those obtained for a similar system (H2O molecules adsorbed onto SiO2 clusters), and the similarities and differences between the two systems were discussed.
Spatiotemporal variation of aluminium and micro- and macronutrients in the soil solution of a coniferous forest after low-intensity prescribed surface fires
Authors: Näthe Kerstin , Levia Delphis F. , Tischer Alexander , Potthast Karin , Michalzik Beate
Published: June 2018

Even though the functioning of nutrient-poor forest ecosystems strongly depends on the cycling of various elements, rather little is known about the effects of fires on the fluxes of Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P and S. Solution fluxes at three different soil depths (organic (O) layer, upper mineral soil (A) and lower mineral soil (B) horizon) were measured every 2 weeks with free-draining lysimeters before and after low-intensity prescribed surface fires in a Scots pine forest in Germany. Measurements of element content in pre-fire litterfall and soil were also conducted. Linear mixed-effect modelling revealed that low-intensity fires caused a short-term (<3 months) increase of element fluxes from the O layer and a medium-term (3–8 months) increase from the A horizon. This solute flush was followed by retention processes in the B horizon, except for S, Ca and Mg, which were removed from the soil system, probably because anion exchange sites favoured dissolved organic carbon over SO42−, and because Ca2+ and Mg2+ partially maintained the charge balance. Our findings indicated that fires affected nutrient-poor soil systems by causing a short-and medium-term element translocation from the O layer into the B horizon, which functioned as a retaining soil horizon by reducing the losses of important elements.
ClusterScan: simple and generalistic identification of genomic clusters
Authors: Volpe Massimiliano , Miralto Marco , Gustincich Stefano , Sanges Remo
Published: June 2018

Studies on gene clusters proved to be an excellent source of information to understand genomes evolution and identifying specific metabolic pathways or gene families. Improvements in sequencing methods have resulted in a large increase of sequenced genomes for which cluster annotation could be performed and standardized. Currently available programs are developed to search for specific cluster types and none of them is suitable for a broad range of user-based choices. We have developed ClusterScan which allows identifying clusters of any kind of feature simply based on their genomic coordinates and user-defined categorical annotations.

Availability and implementation

The tool is written in Python, distributed under the GNU General Public License (GPL) and available on Github at http://bit.ly/ClusterScan or as Docker image at sangeslab/clusterscan: latest. It is supported through a mailing-list on http://bit.ly/ClusterScanSupport.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Challenges to fisheries advice and management due to stock recovery
Authors: van Gemert Rob , Andersen Ken H
Published: June 2018

During the 20th century, many large-bodied fish stocks suffered from unsustainable fishing pressure. Now, signs of recovery are appearing among previously overfished large-bodied fish stocks. This new situation raises the question of whether current fisheries advice and management procedures, which were devised and optimized for depleted stocks, are well-suited for the management of recovered stocks. We highlight two challenges for fisheries advice and management: First, recovered stocks are more likely to show density-dependent growth. We show how the appearance of density-dependent growth will make reference points calculated with current procedures inaccurate. Optimal exploitation of recovered large-bodied fish stocks will therefore require accounting for density-dependent growth. Second, we show how a biomass increase of large-bodied piscivorous fish will lead to a reverse trophic cascade, where their increased predation mortality on forage fish reduces forage fish productivity and abundance. The resulting decrease in maximum sustainable yield of forage fish stocks could lead to conflicts between forage and large-piscivore fisheries. Avoiding such conflicts requires that choices are made between the exploitation of interacting fish stocks. Failure to account for the changed ecological state of recovered stocks risks creating new obstacles to sustainable fisheries management.
Logical Mistakes, Logical Aliens, and the Laws of Kant’s Pure General Logic
Authors: Nunez Tyke
Published: June 2018

There are two ways interpreters have tended to understand the nature of the laws of Kant’s pure general logic. On the first, these laws are unconditional norms for how we ought to think, and will govern anything that counts as thinking. On the second, these laws are formal criteria for being a thought, and violating them makes a putative thought not a thought. These traditions are in tension, in so far as the first depends on the possibility of thoughts that violate these laws, and the second makes violation impossible. In this essay I develop an interpretation of Kant’s pure general logic that overcomes this tension. It accounts for the possibility of logical mistakes, as the first tradition does, while still establishing the absolute impossibility of logical aliens, as the second tradition does. I then argue that the formalist insight that illogical exercises of the understanding are not alternative ways coherent thoughts could have been, but are mere confusions, is fundamental for achieving a proper understanding of the absolute normativity of the laws of pure general logic.
Polyvalent Detection of Members of the Genus Potyvirus by Molecular Hybridization Using a Genus-Probe
Authors: Sánchez-Navarro Jesús A. , Cooper Christopher N. , Pallás Vicente
Published: June 2018

The use of a unique riboprobe named polyprobe, carrying partial sequences of different plant viruses or viroids fused in tandem, has permitted the polyvalent detection of up to 10 different pathogens by using a nonradioactive molecular hybridization procedure. In the present analysis, we have developed a unique polyprobe with the capacity to detect all members of the genus Potyvirus, which we have named genus-probe. To do this, we have exploited the capacity of the molecular hybridization assay to cross-hybridize with related sequences by reducing the hybridization temperature. We observed that sequences showing a percentage similarity of 68% or higher could be detected with the same probe by hybridizing at 50 to 55°C, with a detection limit of picograms of viral RNA comparable to the specific individual probes. According to this, we developed several polyvalent polyprobes, containing three, five, or seven different 500-nucleotide fragments of a conserved region of the NIb gene. The polyprobe carrying seven different conserved regions was able to detect all the 32 potyviruses assayed in the present work with no signal in the healthy tissue, indicating the potential capacity of the polyprobe to detect all described, and probably uncharacterized, potyviruses being then considered as a genus-probe. The use of this technology in routine diagnosis not only for Potyvirus but also to other viral genera is discussed.
Canis familiaris tissues are characterized by different profiles of cytokinins typical of the tRNA degradation pathway
Authors: Seegobin Mark , Kisiala Anna , Noble Adam , Kaplan David , Brunetti Craig , Emery R. J. Neil
Published: June 2018

Cytokinins (CKs) are a group of phytohormones essential to plant growth and development. The presence of these N6‐modified adenine derivatives has also been documented in other groups of organisms, including bacteria, fungi, and insects. Thus far, however, only a single CK, N6‐(Δ2‐isopentenyl) adenine‐9‐riboside (iPR), has been identified in mammals. In plants, the nucleotide form of isopentenyladenine [iPR (mono/di/tri)phosphate (iPRP)] is the first form of CK synthesized, and it is further modified to produce other CK types. To determine whether a similar biosynthesis pathway exists in mammals, we tested for the presence of 27 CKs in a wide selection of canine organs using HPLC electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry. Seven forms of CK were detected in the majority of the analyzed samples, including iPR, iPRP, cis‐zeatin‐9‐riboside, cis‐zeatin‐9‐riboside‐5′ (mono/di/tri)phosphate, 2‐methylthio‐N6‐isopentenyladenine, 2‐methylthio‐N6‐isopentenyladenosine, and 2‐methylthiozeatin. Total CK concentrations ranged from 1.96 pmol/g fresh weight (adrenal glands) to 1.40 × 103 pmol/g fresh weight (thyroid). The results of this study provide evidence that mammalian cells, like plant cells, can synthesize and process a diverse set of CKs including cis‐ and methylthiol‐type CKs.—Seegobin, M., Kisiala, A., Noble, A., Kaplan, D., Brunetti, C., Emery, R. J. N. Canis familiaris tissues are characterized by different profiles of cytokinins typical of tRNA degradation pathway. FASEB J. 32, 6575–6581 (2018). www.fasebj.org
Using “Breakout Boxes” for Pharmacology Review
Authors: Berndt Jodi Lisbeth
Published: June 2018

The “Breakout Boxes” activity is an interactive teaching strategy in which students work in teams to solve puzzles. By unlocking boxes that hold additional clues for opening more boxes, students eventually solve the puzzle. The aim of this study was to gain insight on student perceptions of the use of Breakout Boxes as an active learning strategy in nursing education and determine if it should be used in future courses. Thirty-nine students who participated in the Breakout Boxes activity agreed that the use of the strategy was fun and suggested that it be used in future courses.
A Scoping Review of Transitions, Stress, and Adaptation Among Emerging Adults
Authors: Hanna Kathleen M. , Kaiser Katherine Laux , Brown Sara G. , Campbell-Grossman Christie , Fial Alissa , Ford Amy , Hudson Diane B. , Keating-Lefler Rebecca , Keeler Heidi , Moore Tiffany A. , Nelson Audrey E. , Pelish Peggy , Wilhelm Susan
Published: June 2018

This scoping review examined research on transitions among emerging adults, 18- to 30-year-olds, to identify designs, populations, frameworks, transition types, and transition outcomes. A librarian conducted the search, yielding 2067 articles. Using predefined criteria, teams screened abstracts and reviewed articles, with 82% to 100% interrater agreement. Data from the final 160 articles were placed in evidence tables and summarized. Most frequently, the studies had exploratory-descriptive designs (69%), nondiagnosed samples (58%), no theoretical frameworks (58%), developmental transitions (34%), and health-related behavior outcomes (34%). This transition research is in an early stage of knowledge development and would benefit from further theory development.
Prevalence and Natural Course of Transverse Ligament of the Atlas Calcification in Asymptomatic Healthy Individuals
Authors: Anno Masato , Oshima Yasushi , Taniguchi Yuki , Matsubayashi Yoshitaka , Kato So , Soma Kazuhito , Oka Hiroyuki , Hayashi Naoto , Tanaka Sakae
Published: June 2018

Study Design.

A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and natural course of calcification of the transverse ligament of the atlas (TLA) in healthy subjects and to investigate the relationship between the calcified lesion and clinical factors.

Summary of Background Data.

The prevalence and etiology of TLA calcification in healthy individuals remain uncertain.

Methods.

We enrolled 1136 participants undergoing computed tomography (CT) scans in their routine medical checkups. The calcified lesion of the TLA was classified into two types: type 1, thin calcifications (<2 mm) and type 2, curvilinear lesions (>2 mm). We evaluated the natural course of the lesion and compared each clinical variable among subjects with and without TLA calcifications after adjusting for age and sex using propensity score matching techniques.

Results.

TLA calcification was present in 40 participants (3.5%; 31 males and 9 females; mean age, 65.3 years), and the frequency increased with age (P = 0.001). Both types 1 and 2 calcifications were observed in 26 (65%) and 14 cases (35%), with mean ages of 63.0 and 69.4 years (P = 0.033), respectively. Of these, 37 (93%) underwent another medical checkup afterward, and the morphological changes were further assessed. Five cases (14%) showed enlargement [one case (4%) in type 1vs. four cases (33%) in type 2], whereas six cases (16%) had disappearance or decrease [six cases (24%) in type 1vs. 0 cases in type 2, which was statistically significant (P = 0.019)]. A one-to-one propensity score matching analysis revealed no significant differences in clinical variables among subjects with and without TLA calcifications.

Conclusion.

The prevalence of the TLA calcification was not rare in normal subjects. Our results suggest that the calcified lesion could be morphologically changed on a yearly basis and may be associated with the normal aging process.

Level of Evidence:3
Vertebral Augmentation is Superior to Nonoperative Care at Reducing Lower Back Pain for Symptomatic Osteoporotic Compression Fractures
Authors: Pourtaheri Sina , Luo William , Cui Christina , Garfin Steven
Published: June 2018

Study Design:

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective:

This study’s goal was to (i) assess the clinical outcomes with and without vertebral augmentation (VA) for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) with versus without correlating signs and symptoms; and (ii) acute (symptoms <3 mo duration) and subacute VCFs (3–6 mo duration) versus chronic VCFs (>6 mo).

Summary of Background Data:

Previously, a randomized controlled trial in the New England Journal of Medicine concluded that vertebroplasty for osteoporotic VCFs provided no clinical benefit over sham surgery. However, the VCFs examined had no clinical correlation with symptom, physical examination, or imaging (magnetic resonance imaging/bone scan) findings. Nonetheless, the randomized controlled trial resulted in a reduction in VA performed in the United States. Currently, no consensus exists on VA versus nonoperative care for symptomatic VCFs (SVFs).

Materials and Methods:

A literature search was conducted for studies on VA and conservative management for VCFs. Meta-analysis was performed using the random-effects model. The primary outcome was improvement in lower back pain visual analog score. SVFs were defined as radiographic VCF with clinical correlation. Radiographic-alone VCF (RVF) was defined as radiographic VCF without clinical correlation.

Results:

Thirteen studies totaling 1467 patients with minimum 6-month follow-up were found. Pain reduction was greater with VA over conservative management for SVFs (P<0.000001) and equivalent for RVFs (P=0.22). Subanalysis for acute/subacute SVFs and chronic SVFs showed that VA was superior to nonoperative care (P=0.0009 and 0.04, respectively). No difference was observed in outcomes between VA and nonoperative care for chronic RVF (P=0.22).

Conclusions:

VA is superior to nonoperative care in reducing lower back pain for osteoporotic VCFs with correlating signs and symptoms. VA had no benefit over nonoperative care for chronic VCFs that lacked clinical correlation. Lower back pain has many etiologies and patients should be clinically assessed before recommending VA.
Periadnexal Nerve Hyperplasia: A Reactive Histopathological Feature and an Incidental Finding After Surgical Excision and Scar Formation
Authors: Lobato-Berezo Alejandro , Moreno-Romero Juan Antonio , Campoy-Sánchez Antonio , Pujol Ramon M. , Pérez-Muñoz Noelia , Fernández-Figueras María Teresa
Published: June 2018

Cutaneous nerve hyperplasia is characterized by the presence of increased and hypertrophic myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers in the dermis. We report a case of periadnexal nerve hyperplasia as an asymptomatic and infrequent reactive histopathological change, with no associated risk of malignancy that can be seen in scars, in patients with no syndromic stigmata.
“Pigmented Extramammary Paget Disease”—A Potential Mimicker of Malignant Melanoma and a Pitfall in Diagnosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kiavash Katrin , Kim Steve , Thompson Andrew D.
Published: June 2018

Extramammary Paget disease (EMPD) is a rare intraepithelial carcinoma and an uncommon variant of Paget disease affecting areas of the apocrine-rich skin of the perineum, vulva, and less commonly, axilla. Women in their sixth to eighth decades are commonly affected. It is exceedingly rare for EMPD to present on the face, chest, abdomen, or other nonapocrine sites and even more unusual for EMPD to present as a pigmented lesion. The relationship between Paget cells in pigmented extramammary Paget disease (PEMPD) and reactive proliferation and colonization by melanocytes has been poorly explored. The relevance of this rare entity resides in its potential to be misdiagnosed clinically and histopathologically as malignant melanoma in situ. Therefore, application of a panel of immunostains and careful analysis and interpretation of these findings are essential to arrive at the correct diagnosis. We report a new case of PEMPD on a nonapocrine site. The specimen was examined by routine microscopy including hematoxylin and eosin stain as well as immunostains. Histologic examination revealed characteristic features of PEMPD confirmed with immunohistochemical stains.
Supportive Care Nursing Clinical Protocol Incorporates Holism in a Public Acute Care Hospital
Authors: Srivali Teal Jutara , Rutledge Dana N. , Robertson Sue , Cruz Eve
Published: June 2018

The Supportive Care Nursing Clinical Protocol (SCNCP) was developed to guide holistic nursing care for seriously ill hospitalized patients. The SCNCP uses national guidelines and evidence-based interventions as its foundation. Seriously ill patients may require palliative care, which is synonymous with supportive care. Acute care nurses may not be proficient in providing holistic supportive care for patients with life-limiting illness. At a 670-bed public acute care hospital, palliative care consultation requires a physician order and palliation may arrive late in an illness. Independent nursing interventions can contribute to the alleviation of suffering. Evidence-based interventions used in the SCNCP include using computer applications for breathing exercise (relaxation and mindfulness), topical applications for alleviating thirst, and hand-held fans for dyspnea. The SCNCP is projected for implementation (Spring 2017). The SCNCP will be evaluated for effectiveness after 6 months of implementation. Key indicators for successful implementation include increased nursing knowledge of supportive care and the frequency of protocol implementation as evidenced in the electronic health record. Eventually, the SCNCP will be implemented as the standard for supportive care of the seriously ill for all hospitals in the health system network.