bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Am richtigen Ende gespart
Authors: Stiller Eileen
Published: March 2016

Leasingvarianten gibt es unzählige. Als besonders interessant gelten das „Operate Leasing”, das „Pay-per-Use” auch bei Sterilgütern sowie spezielle PPP-Leasingmodelle.
Vorsicht, Nebenwirkungen!
Authors: Gaede Kirsten
Published: March 2016

Pflegekräften fehlt die Zeit, Patienten zu beraten, auch fühlen sie sich im zunehmend arbeitsteiligeren Klinikalltag zerrieben. Die Studie „Berufsbilder im Gesundheitssektor” des IAT zeichnet ein düsteres Bild. Aber die Autoren bieten auch Lösungsvorschläge.
Qualität ist subjektiv
Authors: Kucera Martin
Published: March 2016

Klagen aus dem OP über Defizite in der Instrumentenaufbereitung können ein schlechtes wie ein gutes Zeichen sein. Entweder stimmt die Qualität nicht. Oder es existiert eine funktionierende Fehlerkultur. Die Wahrnehmungen beider Seiten gehen deutlich auseinander.
Spart Blut!
Authors: Bonnet Jens
Published: March 2016

Bluttransfusionen retten jeden Tag Leben, sind aber auch mit Risiken verbunden. Durch das 2013 gestartete klinische Projekt „Patient Blood Management (PBM)“ gelingt es Ärzten der Uniklinik Frankfurt, den Blutverbrauch deutlich zu senken und gleichzeitig die Patientensicherheit zu erhöhen. Ein Erfolg, der mit dem Lohfert-Preis 2014 belohnt wurde.
Abschied vom Feigenblatt
Authors: Ekkernkamp Axel
Published: March 2016

Der gesundheitspolitische Herbst ist geprägt von Reformen und Gesetzesinitiativen.
Outcome Instruments in Spinal Trauma Surgery: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Cutler Holt S. , Guzman Javier Z. , Connolly James , Al Maaieh Motasem , Skovrlj Branko , Cho Samuel K.
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Literature review.

Objective

To identify outcomes instruments used in spinal trauma surgery over the past decade, their frequency of use, and usage trends.

Methods

Five top orthopedic journals were reviewed from 2004 to 2013 for clinical studies of surgical intervention in spinal trauma that reported patient-reported outcome instruments use or neurologic function scale use. Publication year, level of evidence (LOE), and outcome instruments were collected for each article and analyzed.

Results

A total of 58 studies were identified. Among them, 26 named outcome instruments and 7 improvised questionnaires were utilized. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain was used most frequently (43.1%), followed by the Short Form 36 (34.5%), Frankel grade scale (25.9%), Oswestry Disability Index (20.7%) and American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (15.5%). LOE 4 was most common (37.9%), and eight LOE 1 studies were identified (10.3%).

Conclusions

The VAS pain scale is the most common outcome instrument used in spinal trauma. The scope of this outcome instrument is limited, and it may not be sufficient for discriminating between more and less effective treatments. A wide variety of functional measures are used, reflecting the need for a disease-specific instrument that accurately measures functional limitation in spinal trauma.
Tearing and surface preserving electron magnetohydrodynamic modes in a current layer
Authors: Gaur Gurudatt , Kaw Predhiman K.
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we have carried out linear and nonlinear analysis of tearing and surface preserving modes of two-dimensional electron magnetohydrodynamics. A linear analysis shows that the perturbations parallel to equilibrium magnetic field B0 (characteristic tangent hyperbolic spatial profile), driven by the current-gradients, lead to two different modes. The first mode is the tearing mode having a non-local behavior, which requires the null-line in the magnetic field profile. Whereas, the second mode is a surface preserving local mode, which does not require the null-line in the magnetic field. The quantity B0−B0″ should change sign for these modes to exist. In nonlinear simulations, for tearing case, we observe the formation of magnetic island at the null-line due to the reconnection of magnetic field lines. However, for surface preserving mode, a channel like structure is observed instead of the island structure.
Effect of simple solutes on the long range dipolar correlations in liquid water
Authors: Baul Upayan , Kanth J. Maruthi Pradeep , Anishetty Ramesh , Vemparala Satyavani
Published: March 2016

Intermolecular correlations in liquid water at ambient conditions have generally been characterized through short range density fluctuations described through the atomic pair distribution functions. Recent numerical and experimental results have suggested that such a description of order or structure in liquid water is incomplete and there exist considerably longer ranged orientational correlations in water that can be studied through dipolar correlations. In this study, using large scale classical, atomistic molecular dynamics simulations using TIP4P-Ew and TIP3P models of water, we show that salts such as sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium chloride (KCl), caesium chloride (CsCl), and magnesium chloride (MgCl2) have a long range effect on the dipolar correlations, which cannot be explained by the notion of structure making and breaking by dissolved ions. Observed effects are explained through orientational stratification of water molecules around ions and their long range coupling to the global hydrogen bond network by virtue of the sum rule for water. The observations for single hydrophilic solutes are contrasted with the same for a single methane (CH4) molecule. We observe that even a single small hydrophobe can result in enhancement of long range orientational correlations in liquid water, contrary to the case of dissolved ions, which have been observed to have a reducing effect. The observations from this study are discussed in the context of hydrophobic effect.
Modeling and characterization of partially inserted electrical connector faults
Authors: Tokgöz Çağatay , Dardona Sameh , Soldner Nicholas C. , Wheeler Kevin R.
Published: March 2016

Faults within electrical connectors are prominent in avionics systems due to improper installation, corrosion, aging, and strained harnesses. These faults usually start off as undetectable with existing inspection techniques and increase in magnitude during the component lifetime. Detection and modeling of these faults are significantly more challenging than hard failures such as open and short circuits. Hence, enabling the capability to locate and characterize the precursors of these faults is critical for timely preventive maintenance and mitigation well before hard failures occur. In this paper, an electrical connector model based on a two-level nonlinear least squares approach is proposed. The connector is first characterized as a transmission line, broken into key components such as the pin, socket, and connector halves. Then, the fact that the resonance frequencies of the connector shift as insertion depth changes from a fully inserted to a barely touching contact is exploited. The model precisely captures these shifts by varying only two length parameters. It is demonstrated that the model accurately characterizes a partially inserted connector.
Hydrodynamic growth and decay of planar shock waves
Authors: Piriz A. R. , Sun Y. B. , Tahir N. A.
Published: March 2016

A model for the hydrodynamic attenuation (growth and decay) of planar shocks is presented. The model is based on the approximate integration of the fluid conservation equations, and it does not require the heuristic assumptions used in some previous works. A key issue of the model is that the boundary condition on the piston surface is given by the retarded pressure, which takes into account the transit time of the sound waves between the piston and any position at the bulk of the shocked fluid. The model yields the shock pressure evolution for any given pressure pulse on the piston, as well as the evolution of the trajectories, velocities, and accelerations on the shock and piston surfaces. An asymptotic analytical solution is also found for the decay of the shock wave.
Fully variable elliptical phase retarder composed of two linear phase retarders
Authors: Yu Chih-Jen
Published: March 2016

In this study, a fully variable elliptical phase retarder was developed by combining a variable linear phase retarder and a half-wave plate. All three polarization parameters of the elliptical phase retarder (elliptical phase retardation γ, azimuth angle θ, and ellipticity angle ε) were adjustable. Experimental verification was performed by measuring the polarization parameters with a polarizer–sample–analyzer polarimeter. The polarization parameters were set to γ = 120°, ε = 15°, and θ = 20°. The measurement results, γ = 119.838° ± 0.006°, ε = 14.659° ± 0.002°, and θ = 20.084° ± 0.002°, agreed with theoretical prediction.
Thermal stability of the prominent compensating (AlZn–VZn) center in ZnO
Authors: Stehr J. E. , Chen W. M. , Svensson B. G. , Buyanova I. A.
Published: March 2016

Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy is used to investigate the thermal stability of the Aluminum–Zinc vacancy (AlZn–VZn) complex created in bulk single crystalline ZnO by room temperature electron irradiation with an energy of 1.2 MeV. Two different stages in the annealing process at 160 and 250 °C with apparent activation energies of EA1 = 1.5 ± 0.2 eV and EA2 = 1.9 ± 0.2 eV, respectively, are observed. The second stage leads to the complete annealing out of the (AlZn–VZn) complex and is accompanied by restoration of the concentration of the AlZn shallow donor centers to its initial value in as-grown (i.e., not irradiated) material. The obtained results prove that the (AlZn–VZn) complex is the dominant acceptor responsible for compensation of n-type-dopants in the studied Al-containing ZnO samples.
Analytic solutions of tunneling time through smooth barriers
Authors: Xiao Zhi , Huang Hai
Published: March 2016

In the discussion of temporary behaviors of quantum tunneling, people usually like to focus their attention on rectangular barrier with steep edges, or to deal with smooth barrier with semi-classical or even numerical calculations. Very few discussions on analytic solutions of tunneling through smooth barrier appear in the literature. In this paper, we provide two such examples, a semi-infinite long barrier V(x)=A2[1+tanh(x/a)] and a finite barrier V(x) = A sech2(x/a). To each barrier, we calculate the associated phase time and dwell time after obtaining the analytic solution. The results show that, different from rectangular barrier, phase time or dwell time does increase with the length parameter a controlling the effective extension of the barrier. More interestingly, for the finite barrier, phase time or dwell time exhibits a peak in k-space. A detailed analysis shows that this interesting behavior can be attributed to the strange tunneling probability Ts(k), i.e., Ts(k) displays a unit step function-like profile Θ(k − k0), especially when a is large, say, a ≫ 1/κ, 1/k. And k0≡mA/ħ is exactly where the peak appears in phase or dwell time k-spectrum. Thus only those particles with k in a very narrow interval around k0 are capable to dwell in the central region of the barrier sufficiently long.
Demonstration of a time-resolved x-ray scattering instrument utilizing the full-repetition rate of x-ray pulses at the Pohang Light Source
Authors: Jo Wonhyuk , Eom Intae , Landahl Eric C. , Lee Sooheyong , Yu Chung-Jong
Published: March 2016

We report on the development of a new experimental instrument for time-resolved x-ray scattering (TRXS) at the Pohang Light Source (PLS-II). It operates with a photon energy ranging from 5 to 18 keV. It is equipped with an amplified Ti:sappahire femtosecond laser, optical diagnostics, and laser beam delivery for pump-probe experiments. A high-speed single-element detector and high trigger-rate oscilloscope are used for rapid data acquisition. While this instrument is capable of measuring sub-nanosecond dynamics using standard laser pump/x-ray probe techniques, it also takes advantage of the dense 500 MHz standard fill pattern in the PLS-II storage ring to efficiently record nano-to-micro-second dynamics simultaneously. We demonstrate this capability by measuring both the (fast) impulsive strain and (slower) thermal recovery dynamics of a crystalline InSb sample following intense ultrafast laser excitation. Exploiting the full repetition rate of the storage ring results in a significant improvement in data collection rates compared to conventional bunch-tagging methods.
Efficient spin-filter and negative differential resistance behaviors in FeN4 embedded graphene nanoribbon device
Authors: Liu N. , Liu J. B. , Yao K. L. , Ni Y. , Wang S. L.
Published: March 2016

In this paper, we propose a new device of spintronics by embedding two FeN4 molecules into armchair graphene nanoribbon and sandwiching them between N-doped graphene nanoribbon electrodes. Our first-principle quantum transport calculations show that the device is a perfect spin filter with high spin-polarizations both in parallel configuration (PC) and antiparallel configuration (APC). Moreover, negative differential resistance phenomena are obtained for the spin-down current in PC, and the spin-up and spin-down currents in APC. These transport properties are explained by the bias-dependent evolution of molecular orbitals and the transmission spectra.
Magnetic tunnel junctions with monolayer hexagonal boron nitride tunnel barriers
Authors: Piquemal-Banci M. , Galceran R. , Caneva S. , Martin M.-B. , Weatherup R. S. , Kidambi P. R. , Bouzehouane K. , Xavier S. , Anane A. , Petroff F. , Fert A. , Robertson J. , Hofmann S. , Dlubak B. , Seneor P.
Published: March 2016

We report on the integration of atomically thin 2D insulating hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) tunnel barriers into Co/h-BN/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). The h-BN monolayer is directly grown by chemical vapor deposition on Fe. The Conductive Tip Atomic Force Microscopy (CT-AFM) measurements reveal the homogeneity of the tunnel behavior of our h-BN layers. As expected for tunneling, the resistance depends exponentially on the number of h-BN layers. The h-BN monolayer properties are also characterized through integration into complete MTJ devices. A Tunnel Magnetoresistance of up to 6% is observed for a MTJ based on a single atomically thin h-BN layer.
Advanced magneto-optical microscopy: Imaging from picoseconds to centimeters - imaging spin waves and temperature distributions (invited)
Authors: Urs Necdet Onur , Mozooni Babak , Mazalski Piotr , Kustov Mikhail , Hayes Patrick , Deldar Shayan , Quandt Eckhard , McCord Jeffrey
Published: March 2016

Recent developments in the observation of magnetic domains and domain walls by wide-field optical microscopy based on the magneto-optical Kerr, Faraday, Voigt, and Gradient effect are reviewed. Emphasis is given to the existence of higher order magneto-optical effects for advanced magnetic imaging. Fundamental concepts and advances in methodology are discussed that allow for imaging of magnetic domains on various length and time scales. Time-resolved imaging of electric field induced domain wall rotation is shown. Visualization of magnetization dynamics down to picosecond temporal resolution for the imaging of spin-waves and magneto-optical multi-effect domain imaging techniques for obtaining vectorial information are demonstrated. Beyond conventional domain imaging, the use of a magneto-optical indicator technique for local temperature sensing is shown.
Costs of paying higher prices for equivalent effects on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Authors: Karnon Jonathan , Edney Laura , Sorich Michael
Published: March 2016

Objective The aims of the present study were to illustrate and discuss the effects of the non-maintenance of equivalent prices when the comparators of pharmaceuticals listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule (PBS) on a cost-minimisation basis come off-patent and are subject to statutory price reductions, as well as further potential price reductions because of the effects of price disclosure. Methods Service use, benefits paid, and price data were analysed for a selected sample of pharmaceuticals recommended for listing on a cost-minimisation basis between 2008 and 2011, and their comparators, to estimate the cost savings to the PBS of maintaining equivalent prices. Results Potential cost savings for 12 pharmaceuticals, including alternative compounds and combination products across nine therapeutic groups, ranged from A$570 000 to A$40 million to April 2015. Potential savings increased significantly following recent amendments to the price disclosure process. Conclusions Potential savings from maintaining equivalent prices for all pharmaceuticals listed on the PBS on a cost-minimisation basis could be over A$500 million per year. Actions to reduce these costs can be taken within existing policy frameworks, but legislative and political barriers may need to be addressed to minimise these costs, which are incurred by the taxpayer for no additional benefit. What is known about the topic? Pharmaceuticals listed on the PBS must provide value for money. Many pharmaceuticals achieve this by demonstrating equal effectiveness to an already listed pharmaceutical and requesting the same price as this comparator; that is, listing on a cost-minimisation basis. When the comparator moves off-patent, the price of the still-patented pharmaceutical is protected, whereas the off-patent drug is subject to price disclosure and often steep price reductions. What does this paper add? This paper adds to recent evidence on the costs to government of paying different prices for two or more pharmaceuticals that are equally effective. Between 2008 and 2011, the direct comparators for 68 pharmaceuticals listed on a cost-minimisation basis have moved onto the price disclosure list. Across 12 of these listings, the potential cost savings in the 10 months to April 2015 were A$73 million. What are the implications for practitioners? The PBS costs the Australian government over A$9 billion per year. Annual savings over A$500 million per year could be achieved by maintaining cost-minimisation across equally effective pharmaceuticals. This would improve the efficiency of the PBS at no risk to patients. Legislation is required to remove the existing F1 and F2 categorisation of listed pharmaceuticals, but the proposed changes would remove the need for therapeutic group premiums and simplify the pricing of PBS items.
Home range of reintroduced Chinese water deer in Nanhui East Shoal Wildlife Sanctuary of Shanghai, China
Authors: He Xin , Chen Min , Zhang Endi
Published: March 2016

The Chinese water deer was once widely spread in Liaodong Peninsula, North China Plain and both banks of the Yangtze River and the Korean peninsula. Due to long-term environmental changes and influence of human development, its wild population in China has rapidly declined, both in abundance and distribution. As one of the native species in the history of Shanghai, Chinese water deer was introduced to Shanghai for captive breeding in 2006 and were released into the wild in 2010. The present study was conducted in Nanhui East Shoal Wildlife Sanctuary. The reintroduction of Chinese water deer was carried out separately in June and October 2010. So as to study the movement of the deer after release, 12 Chinese water deer (sex ratio 1 : 1) were tagged with radio-collars. We successfully used radio-telemetry to track 10 deer, and used the minimum convex polygon (MCP) and fixed kernel estimation (FKE) methods to calculate their home range. The results showed that using the MCP method, the mean home-range size of Chinese water deer was estimated to be 671 ha (range 245–1559 ha), while using the 95% FKE method, the mean was estimated to be 262 ha (range 43–435 ha). The mean home-range size of a buck was smaller than that of a doe by both MCP and FKE. The mean home-range size of an adult female was smaller than that of a subadult female. The largest seasonal home-range size (MCP, 275 ha) occurred during the winter of the first year, which then kept on shrinking in spring and summer. Home-range overlap was found among the home range of each individual. The mean overlap size was 303 ha. The mean overlap size was 135 ha in bucks, 422 ha in does and 270 ha between the buck and the doe. The study reflects that the seasonal food change is probably the main factor for the change of home-range size. Oestrus may also result in the enlargement of home range in winter. As an attempt to reintroduce large mammals to cities, we hope to provide useful experience for future wildlife management and conservation.
The case for pre-parturient selenium and iodine supplementation of ewes for improving lamb survival
Authors: Schmoelzl Sabine , Cowley Fran
Published: March 2016

Lamb survival is an issue of high relevance to the Australian sheep industry, as lamb-survival rates have direct bearing on overall reproductive performance of the sheep, and also constitute a main concern from an animal welfare perspective (Mellor and Stafford 2004). Both genetic and management factors play an important role in this complex issue (Hinch and Brien 2014). Ewe nutrition is of particular relevance as the intrauterine growth conditions prepare the lamb for the crucial transition to life outside the uterus. Effects of body condition of the ewe during various stages of the pregnancy have been investigated in detail, yet much less is known about the critical role of micronutrient provision to the ewe. Although several risk factors for selenium (Se) and iodine (I) subclinical deficiencies exist for sheep on pasture in Australia, determining micronutrient status in sheep or pasture is not straightforward. Several studies have separately found effects of Se and I supplementation on lamb survival. Studies investigating the interaction of Se and I supplementation have been few but results have demonstrated an interaction between Se and I. With increased twinning rates as a result of increased selection of numbers of lambs weaned, nutritional demands during pregnancy across flocks are increasing, and effects of micronutrients on lamb health and survival have greater impact. New opportunities in nutritional research are encouraging new studies into the effects of Se and I supplementation on lamb survival.
Mobilising fine sediment in a highly regulated upland snowmelt river using hydrological scaled experimental floods
Authors: Coleman Daniel , Williams Simon
Published: March 2016

Significant water diversion, flow variability, and the lack of high flow events can result in altered channel surfaces and morphology through the accumulation of fine sediments within the riverbed. Mitigation of this issue using environmental water often involves single large annual flushing floods as peak discharge is often regarded as the critical hydrological metric for river habitat recovery. We assess the performance of a hydrological scaled flow strategy of five intra-annual experimental floods to mobilise fine sediment below a large reservoir in the Snowy River, Australia. Suspended sediment was measured using a high frequency sampling regime; before, during and post-flood along a longitudinal gradient of 2.2, 24 and 92km. Substantial sediment loads and high peak total suspended solid (TSS) concentrations were produced by the five experimental floods. The first (61.7m3s–1) and fourth (largest at 148.5m3s–1) experimental floods were by far the most effective, producing more than 70% of the total sediment load at each site. The effectiveness of each experimental flood was related to the peak discharge rate, time since flood, and the magnitude increase from the previous event. This study illustrates how a hydrological scaled flood regime can produce effective fine sediment mobilisation within the channel of a highly regulated lotic system.
Provision of environmental flows promotes spawning of a nationally threatened diadromous fish
Authors: Koster W. M. , Amtstaetter F. , Dawson D. R. , Reich P. , Morrongiello J. R.
Published: March 2016

Detailed understanding of flow-ecology requirements for aquatic biota underpins the use of environmental flows as an effective restoration tool in regulated rivers. However, flow recommendations are often overly simplistic and insufficient to provide the necessary environmental requirements for these biota. This is often due to failure to gain and integrate information on individual species ecology and, by using coarse generalisations, about flow-ecology responses. To inform more effective delivery of environmental flows, we investigated spawning responses of the threatened Australian grayling (Prototroctes maraena) to environmental flows over 2 years in three coastal rivers. Spawning activity was highest during within-channel flow pulses, especially during periods of environmental flow delivery. Peak spawning occurred in late autumn and was positively related to flow duration. This result has important implications for environmental flows management in regions where water is scarce and there is potential conflict among multiple users because, for Australian grayling, it is not necessarily the volume of water released that is important, but how the flow is delivered. Our study demonstrated the importance of quantifying flow-ecology relationships via targeted monitoring and research so as to develop appropriate flow regimes, and should encourage managers to examine more critically the logic behind generalised environmental flow objectives.
Noise-driven growth rate gain in clonal cellular populations
Authors: Hashimoto Mikihiro , Nozoe Takashi , Nakaoka Hidenori , Okura Reiko , Akiyoshi Sayo , Kaneko Kunihiko , Kussell Edo , Wakamoto Yuichi
Published: March 2016

Significance

Differences between individuals exist even in the absence of genetic differences, e.g., in identical twins. Over the last decade, experiments have shown that even genetically identical microbes exhibit large cell-to-cell differences. In particular, the timing of cell division events is highly variable between single bacterial cells. The effect of this variability on long-term growth and survival of bacteria, however, remains elusive. Here, we present a striking finding showing that a bacterial population grows faster on average than its constituent cells. To explain this counterintuitive result, we present a mathematical model that precisely predicts our measurements. Furthermore, we show an empirical growth law that constrains the maximal growth rate of
Escherichia coli
.
Shipwreck rates reveal Caribbean tropical cyclone response to past radiative forcing
Authors: Trouet Valerie , Harley Grant L. , Domínguez-Delmás Marta
Published: March 2016

Significance

Twenty-first-century North Atlantic tropical cyclone (TC) projections are crucial for the development of adaptation and mitigation strategies, but they are subject to large uncertainties, particularly with respect to TC response to radiative forcing. We used a combination of tree-ring data and historical shipwreck data to show that TC activity in the Caribbean was distinctly suppressed during the Maunder Minimum (1645–1715 CE), a period when solar irradiance was severely reduced. This solar fingerprint on decadal-scale Caribbean TC variability implies modulation by a combination of basin-wide climatic phenomena. Our findings highlight the need to enhance our understanding of the response of atmospheric circulation patterns to radiative forcing and climate change to improve the skill of future TC projections.
Reduced interdecadal variability of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation under global warming
Authors: Cheng Jun , Liu Zhengyu , Zhang Shaoqing , Liu Wei , Dong Lina , Liu Peng , Li Hongli
Published: March 2016

Significance

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a key component of the climate system, and its interdecadal variability (IV) significantly modulates climate changes around the North Atlantic region and worldwide. We report a robust shortening in period and weakening in amplitude of AMOC-IV in response to future global warming, which may be contributed to by increased oceanic stratification and, in turn, speedup of Rossby wave propagation. This finding sheds light on the mechanism of AMOC-IV responses to varying background climatology and global warming and therefore should contribute significantly to our understanding and projection of future climate changes.
Focal expression of mutant huntingtin in the songbird basal ganglia disrupts cortico-basal ganglia networks and vocal sequences
Authors: Tanaka Masashi , Singh Alvarado Jonnathan , Murugan Malavika , Mooney Richard
Published: March 2016

Significance

Genetic mutations that impair basal ganglia (BG) function affect sequential movements, but the link between genotype, BG circuit dysfunction, and altered behavior remains unclear. Here, we found that viral expression of a genetic mutation that causes Huntington’s disease (HD) in a vocalization-related region of the songbird BG leads to the selective loss of striatal medium spiny neurons, abnormal temporal patterns of cortico-BG activity during vocalization, and highly unstable vocal sequences. Moreover, silencing activity in the cortical component of this circuit stabilized vocalizations, supporting the idea that the genetic mutation that causes HD affects complex motor sequences by altering temporal patterns of cortico-BG activity.
Discovery of a spawning ground reveals diverse migration strategies in Atlantic bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus)
Authors: Richardson David E. , Marancik Katrin E. , Guyon Jeffrey R. , Lutcavage Molly E. , Galuardi Benjamin , Lam Chi Hin , Walsh Harvey J. , Wildes Sharon , Yates Douglas A. , Hare Jonathan A.
Published: March 2016

Significance

We present unequivocal evidence that Atlantic bluefin tuna spawn in the Slope Sea, counter to the current assumption that the Gulf of Mexico and Mediterranean Sea are the exclusive spawning grounds. We also demonstrate that age at maturity of western bluefin tuna is currently overestimated, that this stock exhibits size-structured spawning migrations, and that migratory connections exist between western and eastern Atlantic spawning grounds. Atlantic bluefin tuna support a highly contentious international fishery, and our results present an alternate life history model to inform the management of this species. The implications of our work are most pronounced for western Atlantic bluefin tuna, which have a life history less vulnerable to overexploitation and extinction than is currently estimated.
Chile's private pension system at 35: impact and lessons
Authors: Borzutzky Silvia , Hyde Mark
Published: March 2016

This paper provides an analysis of Chile's 35 year experience with defined contribution, fully funded pensions and argues that this pension approach should not be emulated by countries seeking to reduce the state role in the provision of pensions. The paper shows that 35 years of privatized pensions have led to a massive accumulation and concentration of capital and profits in the hands of the pension fund administrators and insufficient and unequal pensions for the retirees. This legacy of the Pinochet dictatorship has experienced marginal reforms after the transition to democracy. However, those reforms have not altered the system's structure and have augmented the fiscal role as the state attempts to repair some the most damaging outcomes of the private pension scheme.
ARHGEF17 is an essential spindle assembly checkpoint factor that targets Mps1 to kinetochores
Authors: Isokane Mayumi , Walter Thomas , Mahen Robert , Nijmeijer Bianca , Hériché Jean-Karim , Miura Kota , Maffini Stefano , Ivanov Miroslav Penchev , Kitajima Tomoya S. , Peters Jan-Michael , Ellenberg Jan
Published: March 2016

To prevent genome instability, mitotic exit is delayed until all chromosomes are properly attached to the mitotic spindle by the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC). In this study, we characterized the function of ARHGEF17, identified in a genome-wide RNA interference screen for human mitosis genes. Through a series of quantitative imaging, biochemical, and biophysical experiments, we showed that ARHGEF17 is essential for SAC activity, because it is the major targeting factor that controls localization of the checkpoint kinase Mps1 to the kinetochore. This mitotic function is mediated by direct interaction of the central domain of ARHGEF17 with Mps1, which is autoregulated by the activity of Mps1 kinase, for which ARHGEF17 is a substrate. This mitosis-specific role is independent of ARHGEF17’s RhoGEF activity in interphase. Our study thus assigns a new mitotic function to ARHGEF17 and reveals the molecular mechanism for a key step in SAC establishment.
ARHGEF17 sets the timer for retention of Mps1 at kinetochores
Authors: Marquardt Joseph R. , Fisk Harold A.
Published: March 2016

The kinetochore-associated kinase Mps1 controls the spindle assembly checkpoint, but the regulation of its kinetochore recruitment and activity is unclear. In this issue, Isokane et al. (2016. J. Cell Biol. http://dx.doi.org/10.1083/jcb.201408089) show that interaction with and phosphorylation of its substrate, ARHGEF17, regulates Mps1 kinetochore retention, suggesting an autoregulated, timer-like mechanism.
Survival of the fattest
Authors: Short Ben
Published: March 2016

Lipid droplets regulate autophagy and cell survival by maintaining ER function in starving cells.
Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 mutations prime the all-trans retinoic acid myeloid differentiation pathway in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Boutzen Héléna , Saland Estelle , Larrue Clément , de Toni Fabienne , Gales Lara , Castelli Florence A. , Cathebas Mathilde , Zaghdoudi Sonia , Stuani Lucille , Kaoma Tony , Riscal Romain , Yang Guangli , Hirsch Pierre , David Marion , De Mas-Mansat Véronique , Delabesse Eric , Vallar Laurent , Delhommeau François , Jouanin Isabelle , Ouerfelli Ouathek , Le Cam Laurent , Linares Laetitia K. , Junot Christophe , Portais Jean-Charles , Vergez François , Récher Christian , Sarry Jean-Emmanuel
Published: March 2016

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is characterized by the accumulation of malignant blasts with impaired differentiation programs caused by recurrent mutations, such as the isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutations found in 15% of AML patients. These mutations result in the production of the oncometabolite (R)-2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG), leading to a hypermethylation phenotype that dysregulates hematopoietic differentiation. In this study, we identified mutant R132H IDH1-specific gene signatures regulated by key transcription factors, particularly CEBPα, involved in myeloid differentiation and retinoid responsiveness. We show that treatment with all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) at clinically achievable doses markedly enhanced terminal granulocytic differentiation in AML cell lines, primary patient samples, and a xenograft mouse model carrying mutant IDH1. Moreover, treatment with a cell-permeable form of 2-HG sensitized wild-type IDH1 AML cells to ATRA-induced myeloid differentiation, whereas inhibition of 2-HG production significantly reduced ATRA effects in mutant IDH1 cells. ATRA treatment specifically decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis of mutant IDH1 blasts in vitro. ATRA also reduced tumor burden of mutant IDH1 AML cells xenografted in NOD–Scid–IL2rγnull mice and markedly increased overall survival, revealing a potent antileukemic effect of ATRA in the presence of IDH1 mutation. This therapeutic strategy holds promise for this AML patient subgroup in future clinical studies.
Modelling the chemistry of star-forming filaments – I. H2 and CO chemistry
Authors: Seifried D. , Walch S.
Published: March 2016

We present simulations of star-forming filaments incorporating on of the largest chemical network used to date on-the-fly in a 3D-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulation. The network contains 37 chemical species and about 300 selected reaction rates. For this, we use the newly developed package krome (Grassi et al.). We combine the krome package with an algorithm which allows us to calculate the column density and attenuation of the interstellar radiation field necessary to properly model heating and ionization rates. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using such a complex chemical network in 3D-MHD simulations on modern supercomputers. We perform simulations with different strengths of the interstellar radiation field and the cosmic ray ionization rate. We find that, towards the centre of the filaments, there is gradual conversion of hydrogen from H to H2 as well as of C+ over C to CO. Moreover, we find a decrease of the dust temperature towards the centre of the filaments in agreement with recent HERSCHEL observations.
Suzaku Wide-band All-sky Monitor measurements of duration distributions of gamma-ray bursts
Authors: Ohmori Norisuke , Yamaoka Kazutaka , Ohno Masanori , Sugita Satoshi , Kinoshita Ryuuji , Nishioka Yusuke , Hurley Kevin , Hanabata Yoshitaka , Tashiro Makoto S. , Enomoto Junichi , Fujinuma Takeshi , Fukazawa Yasushi , Iwakiri Wataru , Kawano Takafumi , Kokubun Motohide , Makishima Kazuo , Matsuoka Shunsuke , Nagayoshi Tsutomu , Nakagawa Yujin E. , Nakaya Souhei , Nakazawa Kazuhiro , Takahashi Tadayuki , Takeda Sawako , Terada Yukikatsu , Urata Yuji , Yabe Seiya , Yasuda Tetsuya , Yamauchi Makoto
Published: March 2016

We report on the T90 and T50 duration distributions and their relations with spectral hardness using 1464 gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), which were observed by the Suzaku Wide-band All-sky Monitor (WAM) from 2005 August 4 to 2010 December 29. The duration distribution is clearly bimodal in three energy ranges (50–120, 120–250, and 250–550 keV), but is unclear in the 550–5000 keV range, probably because of the limited sample size. The WAM durations decrease with energy according to a power-law index of −0.058(−0.034, +0.033). The hardness–duration relation reveals the presence of short–hard and long–soft GRBs. The short:long event ratio tends to be higher with increasing energy. We compared the WAM distribution with ones measured by eight other GRB instruments. The WAM T90 distribution is very similar to those of INTEGRAL/SPI-ACS and Granat/PHEBUS, and least likely to match the Swift/BAT distribution. The WAM short:long event ratio (0.25:0.75) is much different from Swift/BAT (0.08:0.92), but is almost the same as CGRO/BATSE (0.25:0.75). To explain this difference for BAT, we examined three effects: BAT trigger types, energy dependence of the duration, and detection sensitivity differences between BAT and WAM. As a result, we found that the ratio difference could be explained mainly by energy dependence including soft extended emissions for short GRBs and much better sensitivity for BAT which can detect weak/long GRBs. The reason for the same short:long event ratio for BATSE and WAM was confirmed by calculation using the trigger efficiency curve.
Application of the Ghosh & Lamb relation to the spin-up/down behavior in the X-ray binary pulsar 4U 1626−67
Authors: Takagi Toshihiro , Mihara Tatehiro , Sugizaki Mutsumi , Makishima Kazuo , Morii Mikio
Published: March 2016

We analyzed continuous Monitor of All-sky X-ray Image/Gas Slit Camera (MAXI/GSC) data of the X-ray binary pulsar 4U 1626−67 from 2009 October to 2013 September, and determined the pulse period and the pulse-period derivative for every 60-d interval by the epoch folding method. The obtained periods are consistent with those provided by the Fermi/Gamma-ray Burst Monitor pulsar project. In all the 60-d intervals, the pulsar was observed to spin up, with the spin-up rate positively correlated with the 2–20 keV flux. We applied the accretion torque model proposed by Ghosh and Lamb (1979, ApJ, 234, 296) to the MAXI/GSC data, as well as the past data including both spin-up and spin-down phases. The “Ghosh & Lamb” relation was confirmed to successfully explain the observed relation between the spin-up/down rate and the flux. By comparing the model-predicted luminosity with the observed flux, the source distance was constrained as 5–13 kpc, which is consistent with that found by Chakrabarty (1998, ApJ, 492, 342). Conversely, if the source distance is assumed, the data can constrain the mass and radius of the neutron star, because the Ghosh & Lamb model depends on these parameters. We attempted this idea, and found that an assumed distance of, e.g., 10 kpc gives a mass in the range of 1.81–1.90 solar mass, and a radius of 11.4–11.5 km, although these results are still subject to considerable systematic uncertainties, other than distance.
Cancer versus FM radio polarization types
Authors: Hallberg Örjan
Published: March 2016

In 2002, a detailed analysis of skin melanoma in 289 Swedish municipalities showed a strong association with the number of horizontally polarized main FM transmitters covering a municipality. Basic antenna theory says that body-resonance and standing waves cannot appear above a metal spring mattress unless the electric field is horizontally polarized. To test the hypothesis that body-resonant radiation can cause increased cancer risk in other European countries, I collected and analysed reported data from 24 countries, among which six were using vertical polarization. The results showed a strong association between cancer risk and the use of horizontally polarized FM broadcasting radiation, whereas vertical polarization seemed to cause no health effects. This information should form the basis for initiating relevant corrective actions by responsible authorities.
Carotenoid intake from natural sources and colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies
Authors: Panic Nikola , Nedovic Darko , Pastorino Roberta , Boccia Stefania , Leoncini Emanuele
Published: March 2016

Carotenoid intake from natural sources has been hypothesized to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to systematically review the epidemiological evidence for the association between carotenoid intake from natural sources and CRC development. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies to investigate whether the intake of specific carotenoids from natural sources, as well as combined carotenoids, is associated with the risk of CRC overall and by anatomic subsite. A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE and Scopus databases was performed. Twenty-two articles were identified from the literature search, of which 16 were case–control studies and 6 were cohort studies. In the random-effects meta-analysis of case–control and cohort studies, we found no association between the intake of individual and total carotenoids and the risk of CRC overall and by anatomic subsite. Overall, our findings do not support a significant association between intake of specific carotenoids from dietary sources, as well as combined carotenoids, and the risk of CRC overall and by anatomic subsite.
Pyogenic granuloma in patients treated with selective BRAF inhibitors: another manifestation of paradoxical pathway activation
Authors: Henning Benjamin , Stieger Pascale , Kamarachev Jivko , Dummer Reinhard , Goldinger Simone M.
Published: March 2016

Cutaneous toxicities under therapy with selective BRAF inhibitors such as vemurafenib or encorafenib (LGX818) are frequent, including plantar hyperkeratosis, squamous cell carcinoma, and second primary melanoma. Pyogenic granuloma is a benign, rapidly growing, eruptive hemangioma that often bleeds and ulcerates. Common causes are mechanical trauma and cast immobilization, as well as multiple drugs such as retinoids and antineoplastic agents. However, the development of pyogenic granuloma under treatment with encorafenib (LGX818) has not yet been reported. These three cases might be further examples for paradoxical activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. We report three male patients with metastatic BRAFV600E-mutated melanoma who developed pyogenic granulomas 16, 10, and 12 weeks after treatment initiation with the selective BRAF inhibitors vemurafenib or encorafenib (LGX818). Except for one patient receiving retinoids, the clinical history for other frequent causes of pyogenic granuloma was negative. Pyogenic granulomas are not listed in the drugs investigator brochure but seem to be associated with selective BRAF inhibitors and might be a cutaneous phenomenon of paradoxical mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway activation. This correlation has to be confirmed by further observations.
Clinical Practice Recommendations for the Management and Prevention of Cisplatin-Induced Hearing Loss Using Pharmacogenetic Markers
Authors: Lee Jong W. , Pussegoda Kusala , Rassekh Shahrad R. , Monzon Jose G. , Liu Geoffrey , Hwang Soomi , Bhavsar Amit P. , Pritchard Sheila , Ross Colin J. , Amstutz Ursula , Carleton Bruce C. ,   the CPNDS Clinical Recommendations Group
Published: March 2016

Currently no pharmacogenomics-based criteria exist to guide clinicians in identifying individuals who are at risk of hearing loss from cisplatin-based chemotherapy. This review summarizes findings from pharmacogenomic studies that report genetic polymorphisms associated with cisplatin-induced hearing loss and aims to (1) provide up-to-date information on new developments in the field, (2) provide recommendations for the use of pharmacogenetic testing in the prevention, assessment, and management of cisplatin-induced hearing loss in children and adults, and (3) identify knowledge gaps to direct and prioritize future research. These practice recommendations for pharmacogenetic testing in the context of cisplatin-induced hearing loss reflect a review and evaluation of recent literature, and are designed to assist clinicians in providing optimal clinical care for patients receiving cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
Influence of Partial External Biliary Diversion on the Lipid Profile in Children With Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis
Authors: Jankowska Irena , Czubkowski Piotr , Wierzbicka Aldona , Pawłowska Joanna , Kaliciński Piotr , Socha Piotr
Published: March 2016

Objectives:

The concentration of bile acids is highly increased in progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC). Bile acids are the end products of cholesterol metabolism, and aid in the absorption of fat‐soluble vitamins and dietary fat. The aim of our study was to investigate lipid metabolism in patients with PFIC with focus on the effect of partial external biliary diversion (PEBD).

Methods:

In 26 patients with PFIC, who underwent PEBD surgery at the median age of 2.2 years (range: 0.4–16.6), we analyzed the concentrations of lipids and apolipoproteins both before and 6 months after PEBD. Patients were split into 2 groups according to the outcome of surgery (either “good” or “poor”), and were analyzed separately. A “good” result following surgery was defined as complete relief from pruritus, and normalization of total bilirubin (<1.0 mg/dL) and bile acid concentration in serum (<12 μmol/L).

Results:

We found abnormal lipid concentrations at baseline in all 26 patients: cholesterol was increased (>190 mg/dL) in 13 patients, phospholipids were increased (>250 mg/dL) in 5 patients, and triglyceride concentration was increased (>150 mg/dL) in 13 patients. After PEBD, the concentrations of plasma cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids decreased significantly, whereas, ApoA‐I and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations increased and the concentrations of apolipoprotein B, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol significantly decreased. PEBD had neither an effect on ApoE concentration nor on lecithin‐cholesterol acyl transferase activity. In the group with a “poor” outcome report following PEBD, total serum cholesterol concentration decreased significantly, and no effect on the concentrations of triglycerides and phospholipids were observed.

Conclusions:

Patients with PFIC present with a high risk of lipid disturbances. PEBD has a beneficial effect on lipid profile in the majority of cases.