bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lead apatites: structural variations among Pb5(BO4)3Cl with B = P (pyromorphite), As (mimetite) and V (vanadinite)
Authors: Antao Sytle M. , Dhaliwal Inayat
Published: December 2017

The crystal structure of four Pb apatite samples, Pb5(BO4)3Cl, was refined with synchrotron high-resolution powder X-ray diffraction data, Rietveld refinements, space group P63/m and Z = 2. For this isotypic series, B = P5+ is pyromorphite, B = As5+ is mimetite and B = V5+ is vanadinite. The ionic radius for As5+ (0.355 Å) is similar to that of V5+ (0.335 Å), and this is twice as large as that for P5+ (0.170 Å). However, the c unit-cell parameter for mimetite is surprisingly different from that of vanadinite, although their unit-cell volumes, V, are almost equal to each other. No explanation was available for this peculiar c-axis value for mimetite. Structural parameters such as average 〈B—O〉 [4], 〈Pb1—O9〉 [9] and 〈Pb2—O6Cl2〉 [8] distances increase linearly with V (the coordination numbers for the cations are given in square brackets). Mimetite has a short Pb2—O1 distance, so the O1 oxygen atom interacts with the 6s
2 lone-pair electrons of the Pb2+ cation that causes the Cl—Cl distance (= c/2) to increase to the largest value in the series because of repulsion, which causes the c-axis to increase anomalously. Although Pb apatite minerals occur naturally in ore deposits, they are also formed as scaly deposits in lead water pipes that give rise to lead in tap water, as was found recently in Flint, Michigan, USA. It is important to identify Pb-containing phases in water-pipe deposits.
DA+ data acquisition and analysis software at the Swiss Light Source macromolecular crystallography beamlines
Authors: Wojdyla Justyna Aleksandra , Kaminski Jakub W. , Panepucci Ezequiel , Ebner Simon , Wang Xiaoqiang , Gabadinho Jose , Wang Meitian
Published: December 2017

Data acquisition software is an essential component of modern macromolecular crystallography (MX) beamlines, enabling efficient use of beam time at synchrotron facilities. Developed at the Paul Scherrer Institute, the DA+ data acquisition software is implemented at all three Swiss Light Source (SLS) MX beamlines. DA+ consists of distributed services and components written in Python and Java, which communicate via messaging and streaming technologies. The major components of DA+ are the user interface, acquisition engine, online processing and database. Immediate data quality feedback is achieved with distributed automatic data analysis routines. The software architecture enables exploration of the full potential of the latest instrumentation at the SLS MX beamlines, such as the SmarGon goniometer and the EIGER X 16M detector, and development of new data collection methods.
Chloridobis(ethane-1,2-diamine)(4H-1,2,4-triazole-κN1)cobalt(III) dichloride
Authors: AaminaNaaz Y. , Thirumurugan S. , Venkatesh D. , Anbalagan K. , SubbiahPandi A.
Published: December 2017

In the title complex, [CoIIICl(C2H8N2)2(C2H3N3)]Cl2, the CoIIIion has a distorted octahedral environment. It is surrounded by four N atoms in the equatorial plane, with another N atom and a Cl atom occupying the axial positions. Both five-membered Co—N—C—C—N rings adopt a twist conformation. The Co—N bond lengths range from 1.941 (2) to 1.954 (1) Å, while the Co—Cl bond length is 2.257 (1) Å. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...N, N—H...Cl and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds. Dimers are formed by N—H...Cl hydrogen-bonding interactions between amine H-atom donors and chloride ions resulting in anR42(8) ring motif. These dimers are further connected in a head-to-tail fashionviaN—H...Cl and C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds. All the interactions together combine to link the molecules into a three-dimensional framework.
Policy elements for twenty-first century African mining
Authors: Cawood Frederick Thomas
Published: December 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to interpret current global events to extrapolate the issues of twenty-first century for consideration by African mining policy and decision-makers.

Design/methodology/approach

The high-level mining issues are identified to assess what lies ahead for the twenty-first century. Some of these require innovation, called beacons for twenty-first-century mining in this paper, so that decision-makers can consider policy instruments and management strategies to craft a more desirable future for governments and companies, without affecting other stakeholders negatively.

Findings

It is proposed that African mining should consider three cross-cutting elements as subsets for the existing policy themes and management decisions, namely, broad benefit, mine sustainability and business improvement. Digital technologies have the potential to significantly support the three elements for fast-tracking Africa’s sustainable economic development.

Research limitations/implications

Although the findings can be applied to most of the developing world, the focus of this paper is on the African mining industry.

Practical implications

Practical considerations for policymakers in Africa.

Originality/value

This paper includes novel/original policy considerations that have the potential to become cross-cutting elements for the existing policy themes of the Africa Mining Vision.
A wireless passive pressure sensor based on aperture coupled microstrip patch antenna
Authors: Guo YanJie , Tan QiuLin , Lu Fei , Wu GuoZhu , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to present a novel wireless passive pressure sensor based on an aperture coupled microstrip patch antenna embedded with an air cavity for pressure measurement.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the sensitive membrane deformed when pressure was applied on the surface of the sensor and the relative permittivity of the mixed substrate changed, resulting in a change in the center frequency of the microstrip antenna. The size of the pressure sensor is determined by theoretical calculation and software simulation. Then, the sensor is fabricated separately as three layers using printed circuit board technology and glued together at last. The pressure test of the sensor is carried out in a sealed metal tank.

Findings

The extracted resonant frequency was found to monotonically shift from 2.219 to 1.974 GHz when the pressure varied from 0 to 300 kPa, leading to an average absolute sensitivity of 0.817 MHz/kPa.

Research limitations/implications

This pressure sensor proposed here is mainly to verify the feasibility of this wireless passive maneuvering structure, and when the base material of this structure is replaced with some high-temperature-resistant material, the sensor can be used to measure the pressure inside the aircraft engine.

Originality/value

The sensor structure proposed here can be used to test the pressure in a high-temperature environment when the base material is replaced with some high-temperature-resistant material.
Energy-aware localization algorithm for Ocean Internet of Things
Authors: Guo Ying , Han Qinghe , Wang Jinxin , Yu Xu
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Localization is one of the critical issues in Ocean Internet of Things (OITs). The existing research results of localization in OITs are very limited. It poses many challenges due to the difficulty of deploy beacon accurately, the difficulty of transmission distance estimation in harsh ocean environment and the underwater node mobility. This paper aims to provide a novel localization algorithm to solve these problems.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes the ship with accurate position as a beacon, analyzes the relationship between underwater energy attenuation and node distance and takes them into OITs localization algorithm design. Then, it studies the movement regulation of underwater nodes in the action of ocean current, and designs an Energy-aware Localization Algorithm (ELA) for OITs.

Findings

Proposing an ELA. ELA takes the ship with accurate position information as a beacon to solve the problem of beacon deployment. ELA does not need to calculate the information transmission distance which solves the problem of distance estimation. It takes underwater node movement regulation into computation to solve the problem of node mobility.

Originality value

This paper provides an ELA based on the relationship between propagation energy attenuation and node distance for OITs. It solves the problem of localization in dynamic underwater networks.
Glomerular Filtration Rate and Initiation of Dialysis
Authors: Escoli Rachele , Luz Ivan , Santos Paulo , Vila Lobos Ana
Published: December 2017

The proportion of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) initiating dialysis at higher glomerular filtration rate (GFR) has increased over the past decade. Recent data suggest that it may be associated with increased mortality. The goal of this analysis was to compare survival outcomes in patients with early and late start dialysis. We performed a retrospective analysis of hemodialysis (HD) incident patients from 1 January 2010 to 30 September 2014. Patients were classified into two groups by estimated GFR at dialysis initiation (eGFR ≥10: early start and <10 mL/min per 1.73m2: late start). Logistic regression was used to evaluate factors associated with early and late dialysis start, and Kaplan–Meier graphs and Cox regression models in survival analysis. In this total incident population (N = 235), 42 patients had an early dialysis start. Compared with the group with an eGFR of <10 mL/min per 1.73 m2 at dialysis start, a Cox model showed an incremental increase in mortality associated with earlier dialysis start (P = 0.027). Independent factors (P < 0.05) associated with mortality in the multivariable Cox model in early dialysis start were: hypertension (HR 9.32, CI: 1.34–17.87), diabetes (HR 1.8, CI: 0.4–13.2) and albumin <3.5 g/dL (HR 1.5, CI: 0.8–6.2). Older patients (HR 0.084, CI: 0.008–0.863) with low phosphorus levels (HR 0.02, CI: 0.0–0.527) also had statistically significant results, although they showed a reduced risk of mortality. Early dialysis initiation was associated with an increased mortality risk, arguing against aggressive early dialysis initiation based primarily on eGFR alone.
Impact of Moderate Alcohol Discontinuation on Insulin Action and Secretion in Latinos With and Without Hepatitis C
Authors: Uribe Lindsay A. , Bacchetti Peter , Gelman Nicholas , Burchard Esteban , Fitch Mark , Hellerstein Marc , Khalili Mandana
Published: December 2017

Background

Insulin resistance (IR) is associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV), and Latinos are both at risk of IR and are disproportionately affected by HCV. Moderate alcohol consumption improves insulin sensitivity and may modify HCV‐associated IR. We investigated the impact of moderate alcohol discontinuation on insulin sensitivity and secretion in Latinos using direct measurements.

Methods

Twenty‐five nondiabetic, noncirrhotic Latino adults without (n = 17) or with (n = 8) HCV underwent 3‐day metabolic assessment before and after prescription of 6 weeks of moderate alcohol discontinuation. Peripheral IR was measured via steady‐state plasma glucose (SSPG) and hepatic IR using endogenous glucose production during a 2‐step 240‐minute insulin suppression test. Insulin secretion was measured using graded glucose infusion test.

Results

Baseline mean age was 46 ± 11 years, 63% male, 29% had HCV, and mean body mass index was 27 ± 4 kg/m2. Compared to non‐HCV, HCV patients had a higher median SSPG (132 vs. 98.8 mg/dl, p = 1.0), hepatic IR (13.5 vs. 11.3, p = 0.24), and insulin secretion rate (ISR‐AUC, 1,290 vs. 1,250 pmol/min, p = 0.98). After confirmed alcohol discontinuation, hepatic IR was the only parameter that changed significantly (increased, mean change 2.6 ± 4.8, p = 0.02). Higher baseline alanine aminotransferase (ALT) was also associated with a greater change in hepatic IR (average 4.0 points/ALT doubling, p = 0.004), and HCV was associated with a lesser change (average −7.3 points, p = 0.002), independent of ALT.

Conclusions

Short‐term moderate alcohol discontinuation adversely impacted hepatic IR in Latinos which was influenced by level of ALT at baseline independent of etiology. Although reduction in ALT through weight loss and HCV eradication remains a priority in improving IR, the observed nonharmful effect of moderate alcohol use represents a potentially confounding variable that warrants further study.
Private and public consumption across generations in Australia
Authors: Rice James M , Temple Jeromey B , McDonald Peter F
Published: December 2017

Objective

To investigate intergenerational equity in consumption using the Australian National Transfer Accounts (NTA).

Methods

Australian NTA estimates of consumption were used to investigate disparities in consumption between people of different ages and generations in Australia between 1981–1982 and 2009–2010.

Results

There is a clear patterning of consumption by age, with the distribution by age of consumption funded by the private sector being very different to that of consumption funded by the public sector. Australians have achieved notable equality in total consumption among people between the ages of 20 and 75 years. Substantial disparities exist, however, between different generations, with earlier generations experiencing lower levels of total consumption in real terms at particular ages than later generations.

Conclusion

An accurate picture of intergenerational equity in consumption requires consideration of both cohorts and cross sections, as well as consumption funded by both the public and the private sectors.
Strategies for the prevention of airway complications – a narrative review
Authors: Cook T. M.
Published: December 2017

Despite being infrequent, complications of airway management remain an important contributor to morbidity and mortality during anaesthesia and care of the critically ill. Developments in the last three decades have made anaesthesia safer, and this has been mirrored in the equipment and techniques available for airway management. Modern technology including novel oxygenation modalities, widespread availability of capnography, second‐generation supraglottic airway devices and videolaryngoscopy provide the tools to make airway management safer still. However, technology will only take safety so far, and non‐technical aspects of airway management are critically important for communication and decision making during airway crises, acknowledging a ‘cannot intubate, cannot oxygenate’ situation and transitioning to emergency front of neck airway. Randomised controlled trials provide little useful information about safety in this setting, and data from registries and databases are likely to be of more value. This narrative review focuses on recent evidence in this area.
Multispectral image analysis in Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease
Authors: Huang Guo , Peng Junchao , Ye Zi , Kijlstra Aize , Zhang Donglei , Yang Peizeng
Published: December 2017

Purpose

To investigate fundus abnormalities in Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease by a noninvasive tool, multispectral imaging (MSI).

Methods

A total of 77 patients with VKH and 163 healthy controls were enrolled between January and April 2015. The MSI findings were evaluated in combination with fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), optical coherent tomography (OCT) and fundus photography (FP). Additionally, we compared extent of exposure of choroidal blood vessels between patients with VKH and healthy controls to evaluate retinal transmission function.

Results

A number of features could be recognized by MSI which included (i) general depigmentation, (ii) clumping of pigment and (iii) macular depigmentation and/or hyperpigmentation. The percentages of these three abnormalities discovered by MSI in 52 inactive VKH patients with a duration of more than 2 months in VKH were 67.3%, 75% and 84.6% respectively, which were all significantly higher than those detected by FFA, OCT or FP (p = 0.0398, p < 0.0001). Our study showed that MSI detected a higher percentages of these four abnormalities in patients with sunset glow fundus than in patients without this phenomenon (p = 0.0492, p < 0.0001). Additionally, at the same wavelength (590 nm), exposure of choroidal blood vessels in inactive patients was stronger than in healthy controls and active patients (p < 0.01, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results show that MSI is a sensitive noninvasive method to investigate the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in VKH disease. It is more likely to detect RPE abnormalities with MSI than when using FFA, OCT or FP. Retinal transmission function in inactive patients is stronger than that observed in active patients or healthy controls.
Biogeographic variability of coastal perennial grasslands at the European scale
Authors: Del Vecchio S. , Fantinato E. , Janssen J.A.M. , Bioret F. , Acosta A. , Prisco I. , Tzonev R. , Marcenò C. , Rodwell J. , Buffa G.
Published: December 2017

Question

Coastal environments have often been described as azonal. While this characteristic is clear for the foredune system, it seems less evident for more inland fixed dunes, which host habitats of major conservation concern, whose features seem to be more related to local climatic conditions. We hypothesized that, unlike other coastal habitats, dune perennial grasslands differ floristically and structurally across their European range and that patterns of variation are linked to the corresponding climate.

Location

European coasts (Atlantic Ocean, Baltic, Mediterranean, Black Sea).

Methods

We used a large data set of phytosociological relevés, representative of coastal grasslands throughout their European range. The role of climatic variables (temperature, precipitation and continentality) in determining the variability in species composition and vegetation structure (by means of life forms) was investigated through CCA, DCA and GLM. The degree of concentration of species occurrences within groups was calculated through the Phi coefficient.

Results

Through multivariate analyses we identified seven major types of coastal grassland, corresponding to different geographic areas. The groups significantly differed in their climatic envelope, as well as in their species composition and community structure.

Conclusion

Our results confirm the hypothesis that coastal dune perennial grasslands are subjected to local climate, which exerts significant effects on both floristic composition and community structure. As a consequence, coastal grasslands are particularly prone to the effect of possible climate change, which may alter species composition and distribution, and lead to shifts in the distribution of native plant communities.
The 2008 Wall Street Crash: A Failed Organizational Response to Complexity
Authors: Herbert Richard H.
Published: December 2017

In the period since the 2008 Wall Street crash, little consensus has emerged on its causes or actions to prevent a recurrence. Our capability for rational decision making was overwhelmed. Viewing the entire financial system as a huge, richly interconnected organization suggests that its structure and associated management practices are suited for a far simpler environment. An organization that is large relative to its environment and sufficiently complex to require the coordination of specialized expertise cannot function by enabling decision makers to respond only to local demands. The resulting inability to recognize critical interdependencies and the nature of their risk makes periodic catastrophic failure likely. Specifically, compartmentalization of information, influence, and reward creates a myopic decision environment in which individual decision makers are unlikely to make effective or ethical decisions. Useful criteria for evaluating solutions can be suggested by considering the interaction of two factors: limited human information processing capability and the effect of motivation on information processing. Taken together, they suggest that human information processing is both limited and opportunistic. We cannot process all information available and the information selected for processing narrows to that needed to achieve salient rewards. Because of this, the organization's reward practices and their effect on motivation are a critical variable. Large financial rewards contingent upon short term, local, simplistic measures inevitably narrow the focus of decision maker's attention to a small part of the system. In contrast, dominant intrinsic motivation is rooted in awareness of, and responsibility for, broader outcomes. Each type of motivation differs in its requirements for sharing of information, influence, and reward. These, in turn, determine the adaptability of the organization to complexity and change. While this has significant ethical implications, its logic rests on the limitations of human information processing and motivation. Aligning human motivation and information flow to the demands of a complex, turbulent financial environment is the challenge we must meet to prevent further cataclysms.
The impressive contribution of Canadian economists to fiscal federalism theory and policy
Authors: Boadway Robin , Cuff Katherine
Published: December 2017

The study of fiscal federalism has been central to the research of Canadian economists since the Rowell–Sirois Report. To mark the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Canadian Economics Association, it is fitting to take stock of their contributions. We focus on the period since 1982 and emphasize the main scholarly publications of an inclusive array of Canadian economists and economists in Canadian universities. Our attention is devoted to applications in the context of federal and provincial governments, setting aside related issues in municipal government finance. We briefly discuss instances where the fiscal federalism literature has informed policy debates including through policy research institutes, government commissions and international organizations.
Expression profile analysis of long non‐coding RNA in acute myeloid leukemia by microarray and bioinformatics
Authors: Feng Yuandong , Shen Ying , Chen Hongli , Wang Xiaman , Zhang Ru , Peng Yue , Lei Xiaoru , Liu Tian , Liu Jing , Gu Liufang , Wang Fangxia , Yang Yun , Bai Ju , Wang Jianli , Zhao Wanhong , He Aili
Published: December 2017

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts longer than 200 nt that are involved in tumorigenesis and play a key role in cancer progression. To determine whether lncRNAs are involved in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), we analyzed the expression profile of lncRNAs and mRNAs in AML. Five pairs of AML patients and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) controls were screened by microarray. Through coexpression analysis, differently expressed transcripts were divided into modules, and lncRNAs were functionally annotated. We further analyzed the clinical significance of crucial lncRNAs from modules in public data. Finally, the expression of three lncRNAs, RP11‐222K16.2, AC092580.4, and RP11‐305O.6, were validated in newly diagnosed AML, AML relapse, and IDA patient groups by quantitative RT‐PCR, which may be associated with AML patients’ overall survival. Further analysis showed that RP11‐222K16.2 might affect the differentiation of natural killer cells, and promote the immunized evasion of AML by regulating Eomesodermin expression. Analysis of this study revealed that dysregulated lncRNAs and mRNAs in AML vs IDA controls could affect the immune system and hematopoietic cell differentiation. The biological functions of those lncRNAs need to be further validated.
Listening for Safe Places: Networks of Playing and Chalcedon in Disaster Pastoral Care
Authors: Johannessen‐Henry Christine Tind
Published: December 2017

Disaster pastoral care operates in diverse contexts, which may challenge clergy responders in ecclesiological meaning‐making of their practices of care. This article argues that pastoral care may be imagined as part of a larger “network” of caring acts understood as a collective, multiple care practice. Such practice reflects deep‐rooted movements described in psychoanalytical theory as playing, and the christological idea of communication of properties. Therein, spiritual “safe places” can be seen to emerge, even in the midst of traumatic events.
Positive Loss and Tragic Memory: On the Preservation of Community
Authors: Gregersen Niels Henrik
Published: December 2017

Theologies of disaster have to recognize exceptional disasters in the framework of a general human exposure to vulnerability, while engaging in the formation of human and religious resilience. Resilience is about “bouncing back and forward” in and through precautionary and self‐adaptive responses to disasters. Drawing up a distinction between personal tragedies and socially shared disasters, the basic argument is that the reconnection of disrupted communities lies at the center of both tragedy and disaster. This article describes a post‐secular theology of tragedy and disaster that mainly stays in a vernacular language, referring to basic assumptions of the gospel while refraining from using the heavier repertoires of Christian doctrine.
Mourning, Melancholy, and Humor: Psychotheology in Freud and Söderblom1
Authors: Sigurdson Ola
Published: December 2017

This article aims at exploring the means for and hope of overcoming trauma, that is, violent emotional shock, through the use of humor and theology in conjunction. Both humor and the experience of the hope of some kind of redemption are ways of transcending the given. But is such overcoming possible without illusion or escapism? These issues are explored through the psychotheological perspectives on humor in the psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud and the Swedish archbishop and theologian Nathan Söderblom.
Embodying Confident Agency: Luther's “Three Estates” as a Resource for Virtue Theory
Authors: Herman Stewart W.
Published: December 2017

Martin Luther's social writings (volumes 44–47 in the American edition) provide a robust account of human agency that might help Lutheran social ethics address contemporary crises of confidence. When Luther addresses concrete moral issues, he enriches his two‐kingdoms frame with a focus on particular social roles such as ruler, merchant, soldier, parent, etc. This (often tacit) “three‐estates” approach creates room for a distinctly Lutheran contribution to contemporary virtue theory by focusing on the functions served by particular social roles more than on individual self‐chosen pathways of moral improvement. It also supports a prophetic affirmation of vocation against the contemporary breakdown of expectations and confidence in social roles.
Young Adults and Their Finances: An International Comparative Study on Applied Financial Literacy
Authors: Oehler Andreas , Horn Matthias , Wendt Stefan , Reisch Lucia A. , Walker Thomas J.
Published: December 2017

Recent years have brought a gradual shift of responsibility for pension provisions, financial planning, health care and various insurances from governmental institutions and firms to individuals. To tackle this challenge, individuals need applied financial literacy and not merely theoretical knowledge about financial products and mechanisms that does not reflect real‐life situations. We survey 448 business students in Canada, Denmark, Germany and Iceland to examine how financial literacy is expressed in their financial portfolios. We contrast these findings with the respondents' own expectations and needs. The results show that most respondents exhibit good financial literacy as well as a realistic assessment of risk and return and their impact on (financial) well‐being.
The Graduating European Dentist—Domain IV: Dentistry in Society
Authors: Gallagher J. , Field J. C.
Published: December 2017

This position paper outlines the areas of competence and learning outcomes of “The Graduating European Dentist” that specifically relates to Dentistry in Society. In addition to treating individual patients, a Dentist must be able to focus on promoting health, monitoring interventions and implementing effective strategies of care at community and population levels. This necessarily involves understanding population demography and health trends, engaging with health policy and promoting health. A Dentist must also understand population demography and health trends, in the context of the healthcare system within which they work.
Functional morphology of the sting apparatus of the spider wasp Cryptocheilus versicolor (Scopoli, 1763) (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae)
Authors: Kumpanenko Alexander S. , Gladun Dmytro V.
Published: December 2017

The females of the spider wasps (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) hunt spiders to provision their larvae. The genital structures of pompilid females are modified in a sting that is used for paralyzing the prey (spiders) and defense. The skeleto‐muscular structure of the sting apparatus of a typical representative of the family (Cryptocheilus versicolor) is examined. The shape of sclerites, their relative positions and articulations are described. Some morphological adaptations are described for the first time. The wide anal arc of the tergum IX provides a stiff support for the muscles that move the valvulae. The resilin structures in the areas of articulation support the work of muscles and in some cases replace them. The 1st valvulae form a venom duct along their entire length, which provides the delivery of the venom to a specific point. An unpaired flap in the venom duct provides a dose of venom in the sting. This mechanism probably enhances the speed and accuracy of the wasp's sting movements. Functions of muscles and interactions of the structures of the sting apparatus of C. versicolor are discussed.
Dinámicas Ocultas: Culture and Psy‐Sociality in Mexican Family Constellations Therapy
Authors: Duncan Whitney L.
Published: December 2017

This article takes the ethnographic case of Family Constellations therapy in Oaxaca, Mexico, to demonstrate how a nonnative therapeutic practice articulates with local cultural frameworks to foster novel forms of therapeutic experience and sociality. Family Constellations in Oaxaca promotes particular forms of what I call “psy‐sociality,” or sociality generated by globalizing psy concepts, diagnoses, and practices, which produce new sites for self‐work and subject‐formation, but also for jointly processing social suffering, familial conflict, and psychological distress in culturally salient ways. First, participantssocializein a structured way that promotes embodied connection to others. Second, participants aresocializedinto gendered ways of speaking, knowing, interpreting, and acting upon the self and the family. Finally, participants are also given explicit guidance forhow to confront current sociofamilial conflictswith which they are grappling. In the process, participants localize this foreign therapy according to the context of present‐day Mexico.  [healing, globalization, family, sociality, self, Mexico]

Este artículo toma el caso etnográfico de la terapia de Constelaciones Familiares en Oaxaca, México, para demostrar cómo una práctica terapéutica no originaria del lugar se articula con marcos culturales locales para fomentar nuevas formas de sociabilidad y experiencia terapéutica. La terapia de Constelaciones Familiares en Oaxaca promueve formas particulares de lo que yo llamo “psicosocialidad”, o socialidad generada por la globalización de conceptos, diagnósticos y prácticas psicológicas que producen nuevos escenarios para el trabajo con uno mismo y la formación de sujetos, pero también para procesar de manera conjunta el sufrimiento social, los conflictos familiares y la angustia psicológica en formas culturalmente notables. En primer lugar, los participantessocializanen una forma estructurada que promueve la conexión corporal con otros. En segundo lugar, los participantes sonsocializadosa través de maneras de hablar, conocer, interpretar y actuar con respecto a sí mismos y a la familia relacionadas con el género. Por último, los participantes también reciben instrucciones explícitas sobrecómo confrontar conflictos sociofamiliares actualescon los que están lidiando. En el proceso, los participantes adaptan esta terapia extranjera al contexto del México actual.
Structural characterisation and immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides isolated from Dendrobium aphyllum
Authors: Liu Huifan , Ma Juanjuan , Gong Fan , Wei Fashan , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Wu Hui
Published: December 2017

A crude polysaccharide extract of Dendrobium aphyllum (cDAP, yield 38.15 ± 0.20%) was generated. The D. aphyllum polysaccharide (DAP, Mw 471.586 kDa), purified by DEAE‐Sepharose and Sephadex‐G200 Fast Flow, was composed of mannose (71.3%) and glucose (28.7%), according to GC–MS analysis. Its backbone was composed of β‐d‐mannopyranose and β‐d‐glucopyranose residues, as revealed by infrared spectroscopic analysis. Its glycosidic bond was mainly 1, 4‐linked, and the O‐acetyl groups were mainly linked to mannose residues, according to periodate oxidation and Smith degradation analysis. The DAP units polymerised into a filiform‐shaped spatial pattern, as characterised by atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. DAP treatment enhanced cytokine secretion (nitric oxide, interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α) and pinocytic and phagocytic capacities of RAW 264.7 mouse macrophages. The complement receptor 3 and mannose receptor were identified to be the receptors of DAP on RAW 264.7 cells, indicating that the Akt/mTOR/MAPK and IKK/nuclear factor‐ĸB pathways could be involved in DAP‐activated immunomodulation.
Development of antimicrobial gummy candies with addition of bovine colostrum, essential oils and probiotics
Authors: Bartkiene Elena , Ruzauskas Modestas , Lele Vita , Zavistanaviciute Paulina , Bernatoniene Jurga , Jakstas Valdas , Ivanauskas Liudas , Zadeike Daiva , Klupsaite Dovile , Viskelis Pranas , Bendoraitiene Joana , Navikaite‐Snipaitiene Vesta , Juodeikiene Grazina
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to develop antimicrobial properties of gummy candies based on bovine colostrum (BC), essential oils (EOs), lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains and their combinations. In addition, the heteropolysaccharide (agar), as a multifunctional polymer, was used for the antimicrobial candies preparation. The antimicrobial activities of BC, EOs (C. reticulata L., Eugenia caryophyllata, C. paradisi L., Thymus vulgaris), LAB strains (Lactobacillus plantarum LUHS135 and Lactobacillus paracasei LUHS244) and their combinations against pathogenic bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Streptococcus mutans) were investigated. The highest antimicrobial activities were demonstrated by Thymus vulgaris and Eugenia caryophyllata EOs and their emulsions (12%), and the best formulation of components for antimicrobial gummy candies production would incorporate the BC fermented with L. paracasei LUHS244 in combination with Thymus vulgaris or Eugenia caryophyllata EOs, which inhibited growth of all the tested pathogenic microorganisms (except Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Gummy candies formula consisting of the fermented BC (up to 3%) and thyme EO (up to 0.2%) with mandarin or grapefruit EOs (up to 0.2%) for taste‐masking, allowed obtaining good texture and high overall acceptability products containing desirable antimicrobials, thus antimicrobial gummy candies could be consumer preferred form of nutraceuticals.
Brexit, Trump, and Christ's Call to Discipleship
Authors: Ross Kenneth R.
Published: December 2017

In March 2018 the World Council of Churches will convene a Conference on World Mission and Evangelism at Arusha in Tanzania to address the theme “Moving in the Spirit: Called to Transforming Discipleship.” The verbs in the title give an important clue as to its meaning. It suggests an understanding of faith that is dynamic and relevant, provoking challenge and engendering change. This article seeks to sketch salient aspects of the contemporary global context that invite such transformative engagement. We are living through a time of rapid change in the “Overton window” – the acceptable range of beliefs and values in a culture at any particular time. This is illustrated by examining populist politics; fake news, post‐truth and alternative facts; the new age of xenophobia and racism; inequality and justice; and the earth at stake. Behind the forces driving the change in values are powerful vested interests that will not take kindly to being challenged. Discipleship is going to be costly. Deep personal transformation will shape agents of change who bring hope to a deeply troubled world. Disciples are called to carry their cross, yet at the same time, and no less fundamentally, they discover the source of infinite joy.
Pondering “The Mission of the Orthodox Church in Today's World”: A Protestant Missiological Reflection
Authors: Bargár Pavol
Published: December 2017

The article explores “The Mission of the Orthodox Church in Today's World” (MOCT), one of the six official documents issued by the Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church that took place on the island of Crete in 2016. It is the first official Orthodox statement on mission ever published. The aim of the present article is to offer a reflection of MOCT from a Protestant missiological perspective. The article argues that MOCT interprets mission as the service of the church to the world, motivated by love. It goes on to discuss six major thematic areas of the statement, namely, the dignity of the human person; freedom and responsibility; peace and justice; peace and the aversion of war; the attitude of the church toward discrimination; and the mission of the Orthodox Church as a witness of love through service. The article seeks to provide a constructive critique of MOCT, assessing both its weaknesses and its assets. It concludes by saying that despite certain theological question marks, the new Orthodox mission document represents an invaluable contribution to the ecumenical discussion on mission and evangelism.
US Secretary of Commerce Makes Case for Extra Census Funds
Authors: Tarran Brian
Published: December 2017

Wilbur Ross raises cost estimate for 2020 Census to $15.6 billion and asks for $187 million more this fiscal year
Making Sense of Multiple Extreme Weather Events
Authors: Winter Hugo
Published: December 2017

Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria caused widespread destruction and left many dead. Hugo Winter describes recent work that may help us better understand and prepare for future storms
Big Money's Big Mistake
Authors: Wilmott Paul , Orrell David
Published: December 2017

In an extract from their book, The Money Formula, Paul Wilmott and David Orrell explain how investment strategies based on stock correlations mislead money managers into believing they have risk under control
Survival study of treatment adherence by patients given oral oxibutynin for hyperhidrosis
Authors: Millán‐Cayetano J.F. , del Boz J. , García‐Montero P. , García‐Harana C. , Rivas Ruiz F. , de Troya‐Martín M.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

In recent years, increasing use has been made of oral anticholinergics such as oxybutynin for the management of hyperhidrosis. The primary aim of this study is to determine the variables associated with adherence to this treatment, and secondarily to obtain data on its effectiveness, safety and adverse effects.

Material and methods

This is a prospective study of patients with hyperhidrosis, at any location, receiving treatment with oral oxybutynin in the period 2007–2016. Epidemiological variables, treatment details, effectiveness and adverse effects were recorded. Effectiveness was determined according to the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS) at baseline, at 3 and 12 months and in successive visits. A descriptive analysis was performed, and Cox's bivariate and multivariate regressions were calculated to determine the variables associated with treatment adherence.

Results

A total of 201 patients (140 women) with a mean age of 34 years were included. The mean initial HDSS score was 3.8, and the median follow‐up period was 29 months. At 3 months, 84.57% of the patients had responded to treatment (excellent response: 72.94%), but adverse effects were reported by 68.2%. At 12 months, 54.23% had responded (excellent response: 79.82%), with adverse effects in 75.2%. The main variable associated with greater adherence was affected areas: palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The following variables were associated with poorer adherence: onset of hyperhidrosis in adolescence, failure to provide an incrementally increasing, individualized dose, initial HDSS score of 3 and partial initial response. The multivariate analysis confirmed the association between the onset of hyperhidrosis during adolescence, the failure to provide a progressively increasing dose and palmar affectation.

Discussion

This study was conducted to identify the variables associated with adherence to treatment by hyperhidrosis patients treated with oral oxybutynin. This information would facilitate selection of patients for this treatment and enhance our understanding of the biological behaviour of such anticholinergics when used to treat hyperhidrosis.
Skin injuries and joint contractures of the upper extremities in Rett syndrome
Authors: Hirano D. , Taniguchi T.
Published: December 2017

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and type of skin injuries and joint contractures of the upper extremities in individuals with Rett syndrome.

Methods

In 2016, a questionnaire regarding skin injuries and joint contractures was sent to 1016 directors of schools for special needs education and 204 directors of departments of rehabilitation [consisting of 130 facilities for persons with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID), 73 wards for patients with SMID, and the National Hospital Organisation and National Centre Hospital, National Centre of Neurology and Psychiatry] in Japan. Descriptive statistics were used to indicate frequency in each question.

Results

Information was acquired from 216 cases (3–53 years old) with Rett syndrome. Skin injuries and joint contractures of the upper extremities were observed in 41% and 49% of individuals with Rett syndrome, respectively. Most of the skin injuries were observed on the hands (19%) and fingers (29%). The incidence of skin injuries was not affected by age or disease severity. Many joint contractures were observed in the shoulder (33%) and elbow (29%) joints. Joint contractures tended to occur in individuals aged over 10 years or with severe locomotor impairment.

Conclusion

Almost half of the Rett syndrome subjects assessed in the present study had skin injuries and joint contractures. Especially, the incidence of joint contractures was affected by age and disease severity. Thus, it is important that medical staff attempt to prevent the occurrence of skin injuries and joint contractures in this patient population.
What Influences Shooter Bias? The Effects of Suspect Race, Neighborhood, and Clothing on Decisions to Shoot
Authors: Kahn Kimberly Barsamian , Davies Paul G.
Published: December 2017

Police shooting deaths of unarmed Blacks and African Americans led to psychological research on the influence of racial stereotypes on decisions to shoot, an effect called shooter bias. This article investigates how contextual cues signaling threat or safety interact with the race of the target to moderate shooter bias. Across two experimental studies using a first person shooter task, participants viewed Black or White male targets who held either a neutral (wallet or cellphone) or dangerous (gun) object. Study 1 manipulated the perceived safety or threat associated with the neighborhood context these shooting decisions occurred in, and Study 2 manipulated the perceived safety or threat associated with the targets’ clothing. Participants made quick decisions to “shoot” or “not shoot” the presented target, with error rates serving as the dependent variable. Across both studies, results confirmed that racial bias in shooting decisions against Blacks was present in perceived threatening neighborhoods and in perceived threatening clothing, and it was reduced in perceived safe neighborhoods and when wearing perceived safe clothing. Results help to identify contextual factors that may lead to mistaken shooting decisions, which can be used to improve police training and decision making to reduce bias.
Killing Fields: Explaining Police Violence against Persons of Color
Authors: Jones James M.
Published: December 2017

This concluding article situates the police violence against persons of color in an historical context, suggesting that the current wave of killings replicates historical trends. A social science explanation is proposed to better understand the antecedents and consequences of police violence. A major strength of the articles in this volume is their delineation of causes of police violence and their consequences. The underlying and recurring explanation for police violence is stereotypical racial attitudes and their behavioral consequences. Effects of police violence extend beyond immediate victims to include communities of color. Comparisons with European police suggest that while lethal actions by police in Europe are far fewer, patterns of brutality and its justification mirror the U.S. context. The problem of police violence against persons of color is multidimensional and complex. This article concludes that there is no easy overarching solution or “fix” to this violence. Rather, each facet must be carefully examined—as this volume has done—and approaches focused on causes and consequences of specific problems should be developed and pursued.
Fish catch and fishing practices in the Nam Theun 2 Reservoir and watershed (Lao PDR)
Authors: Cottet Maud , Visser Theodorus A. M.
Published: December 2017

A fish catch and fishing practice monitoring survey were conducted from 2008 to 2014 in villages adjacent to the Nam Theun 2 Reservoir and its upstream tributaries. The reservoir fisheries exhibited – the three expected phases following impoundment (i.e. trophic upsurge, trophic depletion and stabilization, respectively). This study focused on assessing fish catches and fishing practices from communities living next to the reservoir, and those living upstream of the reservoir, over these phases, and to identify factors that could influence total fish catch. The fish catch appeared to be higher among communities located next to the reservoir, compared to communities living in upstream areas. Fish catches in the upstream tributaries remained relatively stable after impoundment, with a slight increase in the average catch. The reservoir exhibited a low fish yield, compared to similar reservoirs, which could be linked to its oligotrophic status. The majority of the total catch biomass of the reservoir was comprised primarily of two species (i.e. Oreochromis niloticus; Hampala macrolepidota) since a stabilization of the catches was observed. Reservoir fisheries appeared to be mainly driven by hydrological factors, specifically the influence of the rainy season peak. The results of this study indicated no over‐exploitation of fisheries occurred overall, although the fishery resource is still fragile. Fishing activities are known to occur in protected zones (productive areas with large inundated habitat areas), with higher annual total catch being observed during periods of poor enforcement of these zones. As fisheries have become an important income source for villagers living along the NT2 Reservoir, regulation and adequate management of the reservoir are recommended to maintain the reservoir fisheries as a sustainable activity.