bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alk1 controls arterial endothelial cell migration in lumenized vessels
Authors: Rochon Elizabeth R. , Menon Prahlad G. , Roman Beth L.
Published: June 2016

Heterozygous loss of the arterial-specific TGF-β type I receptor, activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), causes hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). HHT is characterized by development of fragile, direct connections between arteries and veins, or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). However, how decreased ALK1 signaling leads to AVMs is unknown. To understand the cellular missteps that cause AVMs, we assessed endothelial cell behavior in alk1-deficient zebrafish embryos, which develop cranial AVMs. Our data demonstrate that alk1 loss has no effect on arterial endothelial cell proliferation but alters arterial endothelial cell migration within lumenized vessels. In wild type embryos, alk1-positive cranial arterial endothelial cells generally migrate toward the heart, against the direction of blood flow, with some cells incorporating into endocardium. In alk1-deficient embryos, migration against flow is dampened and migration in the direction of flow is enhanced. Altered migration results in decreased endothelial cell number in arterial segments proximal to the heart and increased endothelial cell number in arterial segments distal to the heart. We speculate that the consequent increase in distal arterial caliber and hemodynamic load precipitates the flow-dependent development of downstream AVMs.
Pins is not required for spindle orientation in the Drosophila wing disc
Authors: Bergstralh Dan T. , Lovegrove Holly E. , Kujawiak Izabela , Dawney Nicole S. , Zhu Jinwei , Cooper Samantha , Zhang Rongguang , St Johnston Daniel
Published: June 2016

In animal cells, mitotic spindles are oriented by the dynein/dynactin motor complex, which exerts a pulling force on astral microtubules. Dynein/dynactin localization depends on Mud/NUMA, which is typically recruited to the cortex by Pins/LGN. In Drosophila neuroblasts, the Inscuteable/Baz/Par-6/aPKC complex recruits Pins apically to induce vertical spindle orientation, whereas in epithelial cells, Dlg recruits Pins laterally to orient the spindle horizontally. Here we investigate division orientation in the Drosophila imaginal wing disc epithelium. Live imaging reveals that spindle angles vary widely during prometaphase and metaphase, and therefore do not reliably predict division orientation. This finding prompted us to re-examine mutants that have been reported to disrupt division orientation in this tissue. Loss of Mud/NUMA misorients divisions, but Inscuteable expression and aPKC, dlg and pins mutants have no effect. Furthermore, Mud localizes to the apical-lateral cortex of the wing epithelium independently of both Pins and cell cycle stage. Thus, Pins is not required in the wing disc because there are parallel mechanisms for Mud localization and hence spindle orientation, making it a more robust system than other epithelia.
A unique stylopod patterning mechanism by Shox2 controlled osteogenesis
Authors: Ye Wenduo , Song Yingnan , Huang Zhen , Osterwalder Marco , Ljubojevic Anja , Xu Jue , Bobick Brent , Abassah-Oppong Samuel , Ruan Ningsheng , Shamby Ross , Yu Diankun , Zhang Lu , Cai Chen-Leng , Visel Axel , Zhang Yanding , Cobb John , Chen YiPing
Published: June 2016

Vertebrate appendage patterning is programmed by Hox-TALE factors-bound regulatory elements. However, it remains enigmatic which cell lineages are commissioned by Hox-TALE factors to generate regional specific pattern and whether other Hox-TALE co-factors exist. In this study, we investigated the transcriptional mechanisms controlled by the Shox2 transcriptional regulator in limb patterning. Harnessing an osteogenic lineage-specific Shox2 inactivation approach we show that despite widespread Shox2 expression in multiple cell lineages, lack of the stylopod observed upon Shox2 deficiency is a specific result of Shox2 loss of function in the osteogenic lineage. ChIP-Seq revealed robust interaction of Shox2 with cis-regulatory enhancers clustering around skeletogenic genes that are also bound by Hox-TALE factors, supporting a lineage autonomous function of Shox2 in osteogenic lineage fate determination and skeleton patterning. Pbx ChIP-Seq further allowed the genome-wide identification of cis-regulatory modules exhibiting co-occupancy of Pbx, Meis, and Shox2 transcriptional regulators. Integrative analysis of ChIP-Seq and RNA-Seq data and transgenic enhancer assays indicate that Shox2 patterns the stylopod as a repressor via interaction with enhancers active in the proximal limb mesenchyme and antagonizes the repressive function of TALE factors in osteogenesis.
pH Control in a Urease-catalyzed Reaction Using Weak-base Beads as Polymer-supported Buffer Agents
Authors: Li Wenzhao , Li Yongsheng , Yang Zhiqiang , Xu Chunhua
Published: June 2016

To reduce phosphorus waste water from phosphate buffers, we utilized weak-base beads as eco-friendly and reusable buffer agents for the pH control of urease-catalyzed reactions.
Multiple determinants of splicing repression activity in the polypyrimidine tract binding proteins, PTBP1 and PTBP2
Authors: Keppetipola Niroshika M. , Yeom Kyu-Hyeon , Hernandez Adrian L. , Bui Tessa , Sharma Shalini , Black Douglas L.
Published: June 2016

Most human genes generate multiple protein isoforms through alternative pre-mRNA splicing, but the mechanisms controlling alternative splicing choices by RNA binding proteins are not well understood. These proteins can have multiple paralogs expressed in different cell types and exhibiting different splicing activities on target exons. We examined the paralogous polypyrimidine tract binding proteins PTBP1 and PTBP2 to understand how PTBP1 can exhibit greater splicing repression activity on certain exons. Using both an in vivo coexpression assay and an in vitro splicing assay, we show that PTBP1 is more repressive than PTBP2 per unit protein on a target exon. Constructing chimeras of PTBP1 and 2 to determine amino acid features that contribute to their differential activity, we find that multiple segments of PTBP1 increase the repressive activity of PTBP2. Notably, when either RRM1 of PTBP2 or the linker peptide separating RRM2 and RRM3 are replaced with the equivalent PTBP1 sequences, the resulting chimeras are highly active for splicing repression. These segments are distinct from the known region of interaction for the PTBP1 cofactors Raver1 and Matrin3 in RRM2. We find that RRM2 of PTBP1 also increases the repression activity of an otherwise PTBP2 sequence, and that this is potentially explained by stronger binding by Raver1. These results indicate that multiple features over the length of the two proteins affect their ability to repress an exon.
The role of genetic factors and pre- and perinatal influences in the etiology of autism spectrum disorders – indications for genetic referral
Authors: Rybakowski Filip , Chojnicka Izabela , Dziechciarz Piotr , Horvath Andrea , Janas-Kozik Małgorzata , Jeziorek Anetta , Pisula Ewa , Piwowarczyk Anna , Słopień Agnieszka , Sykut-Cegielska Joanna , Szajewska Hanna , Szczałuba Krzysztof , Szymańska Krystyna , Waligórska Anna , Wojciechowska Aneta , Wroniszewski Michał , Dunajska Anna
Published: June 2016

Zaburzenia ze spektrum autyzmu (Autism Spectrum Disorders- ASD) są spowodowane zaburzeniami wczesnych faz rozwoju ośrodkowego układu nerwowego i zwykle są rozpoznawane w pierwszych latach życia. Pomimo wspólnych cech takich jak upośledzenie rozwoju społeczno-komunikacyjnego oraz stereotypowe zachowania posiadają zróżnicowany przebieg i obraz kliniczny. Do najważniejszych czynników etiologicznych należą geny i czynniki środowiskowe działające w okresie prenatalnym, perinatalnym i noworodkowym. Wskazuje się na rolę rzadko występujących wariantów genetycznych o dużej sile oddziaływania np. zmienności liczby powtórzeń w genach odpowiedzialnych za architekturę synaps i połączeń międzysynaptycznych. Postuluje się również udział występujących często wariantów o niewielkiej sile oddziaływania, w tym m.in. polimorfizmów w genach kodujących białka układu peptydów prospołecznych – oksytocyny i wazopresyny. Spośród środowiskowych czynników ryzyka wymienia się szkodliwe oddziaływania w czasie ciąży i porodu, choć do tej pory nie potwierdzono ich swoistego znaczenia, a niekiedy wskazuje się, że również niektóre z nich mogą wynikać pierwotnie z przyczyn genetycznych. W niektórych przypadkach, zwłaszcza z zaburzeniami towarzyszącymi– niepełnosprawnością intelektualną, padaczką i dysmorfiami- wskazuje się na celowość szczegółowej diagnostyki molekularnej, która obecnie może przyczynić się do wykrycia genetycznego podłoża zaburzenia w około 20% przypadków.
Prevalence and consequences of insomnia in pediatric population.
Authors: Kaczor Magda , Skalski Michał
Published: June 2016

Bezsenność coraz powszechniej dotyka pacjentów w populacji pediatrycznej. Od ponad dekady rangę i powszechność problemu zaczęli dostrzegać specjaliści zajmujący się dziećmi i młodzieżą. W przeprowadzonym niedawno badaniu zapytano lekarzy, członków American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, o ich doświadczenie z pacjentami cierpiącymi na trudności ze snem. Ankietowani podali, że bezsenność jest poważnym problemem u 1/3 zgłaszających się pacjentów, a co czwarty z nich wymaga leczenia farmakologicznego [1].
W wielu badaniach u ludzi dorosłych potwierdzono znaczenie snu zarówno w funkcjonowaniu poznawczym, emocjonalnym, społecznym, jak i biologicznym. Prawidłowy sen odgrywa zasadnicze znaczenie w profilaktyce wielu chorób m.in. otyłości, cukrzycy, nadciśnienia tętniczego, zawałów serca, udarów mózgu [2]. Ze względu na coraz częstsze występowanie problemu u dzieci i młodzieży zaczęto zwracać uwagę na krótko- i długoterminowe konsekwencje bezsenności u dzieci. Celem poniższej pracy jest zebranie dostępnych danych dotyczących rozpowszechnienia oraz następstw przewlekłej bezsenności w populacji poniżej 18 roku życia.
Talbot's Death as Passion Play in Shakespeare's 1 Henry VI
Authors: Warrick John A.
Published: June 2016

This article examines the death of John Talbot in Shakespeare’s 1 Henry VI against late medieval passion plays. It argues that Shakespeare adapted common features of medieval pageants, and particularly those representing Christ’s crucifixion, harrowing of hell, and resurrection, to enhance the tragic impact of his secular history play. Finally, it theorizes Talbot’s secular martyrdom in relation to developments unique to the reformation of saintly devotion and the imitatio Christi in Elizabethan England.
Laura Estill. Dramatic Extracts in Seventeenth-Century English Manuscripts: Watching, Reading, Changing Plays. Lanham: University of Delaware Press, 2015. Pp xxviii, 254.
Authors: Bruster Douglas
Published: June 2016

This review considers Laura Estill. Dramatic Extracts in Seventeenth-Century English Manuscripts: Watching, Reading, Changing Plays. Lanham: University of Delaware Press, 2015. Pp xxviii, 254. 
Anne Lancashire and David J. Parkinson (eds). Civic London to 1558. 3 vols. Cambridge: Records of Early English Drama/D.S. Brewer, 2015. Pp 1795.
Authors: Hill Tracey
Published: June 2016

This review considers Anne Lancashire and David J. Parkinson (eds). Civic London to 1558. 3 vols. Cambridge: Records of Early English Drama/D.S. Brewer, 2015. Pp 1795.
Charlotte Scott. Shakespeare’s Nature: From Cultivation to Culture. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2014. Pp 257.
Authors: O'Malley Sarah
Published: June 2016

This review considers Charlotte Scott. Shakespeare’s Nature: From Cultivation to Culture. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2014. Pp 257.
A atividade física voluntária e seus efeitos sobre a neurogênese hipocampal em roedores adultos – Uma revisão de literatura
Authors: Bavaresco Anelise
Published: June 2016

Esta revisão objetivou sistematizar as informações sobre a atividade física voluntária em roda de correr e sua relação com a neurogênese hipocampal na fase adulta. A pesquisa foi realizada na base de dados eletrônica US National Library of Medicine (PubMED). Foram incluídos artigos originais que abordassem o uso de roedores e a corrida voluntária como modelo de exercício; que relatassem a ocorrência de neurogênese hipocampal na fase adulta; publicados nos últimos cinco anos; disponíveis na íntegra; em inglês ou português. Foram excluídos: artigos de revisão; que abordassem a neurogênese humana; que se utilizassem de outros modelos de exercício físico; que não obedecessem aos critérios de inclusão. A busca eletrônica identificou 28 artigos relevantes, dos quais três não analisaram a ocorrência de neurogênese hipocampal e três não avaliaram a ocorrência da neurogênese na fase adulta, sendo então excluídos e restando 22 publicações. Os estudos avaliaram um total de 16 espécies diferentes de roedores, com predominância da linhagem de camundongos C57BL/6. O tempo de exposição à roda de corrida variou entre três dias e seis meses. Em conclusão, fatores como diferenças genéticas,  neurotrofinas e a relação com o desenvolvimento de um comportamento ansioso interferem na expressão da neurogênese hipocampal na fase adulta após a atividade física voluntária. Essas evidências servem para nortear novos estudos a fim de melhor elucidar os mecanismos pelos quais esses fenômenos ocorrem, contudo, é indubitável o benefício que a prática regular de exercício físico, pode trazer aos indivíduos com neuropatologias.
Comparison of physical fitness in elderly submitted to different physical exercise interventions
Authors: Campos Leonardo , Nakamura Priscila , Kokubun Eduardo
Published: June 2016

The objective was to investigate the influence of two types of physical exercise intervention on elderly individuals’ physical fitness. The study included 17 older adults with a mean age of 65.8 years (± 2.88), divided into two groups: Programa de Exercícios Físicos em Unidades de Saúde (PEFUS – Physical Exercise Program in Health Units, n = 8) and Adapted Volleyball (n = 9). PEFUS classes were held three times a week and lasted 90 minutes, including strength, aerobic endurance, agility, coordination and balance exercises. Adapted Volleyball classes were performed two times per week and lasted 120 minutes, divided into skill volleyball exercises and game. For the evaluation of physical skills (strength, agility, coordination and flexibility), the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) set of tests was performed. All participants were assessed at the baseline and after three months of interventions. Statistical analysis was performed using factorial ANOVA through SPSS, version 17.0, and a significance level p <0.05. Motor coordination showed significant improvements after three months of interventions, decreasing from 11.7 ± 2.3 to 10.1 ± 1.6 seconds for Adapted Volleyball and from 15.8 ± 3.3 to 12.0 ± 3.5 seconds for PEFUS (p <0.05). Regarding strength endurance, there was a group-moment interaction (p <0.05) and the PEFUS group showed an increase in this variable after intervention. The interventions are beneficial to the physical fitness of elderly individuals, because they increase or maintain such fitness after these interventions.
Midwives' experiences of helping women struggling to breastfeed
Authors: Lawton Kath
Published: June 2016

Background:

Breastfeeding is accepted as the optimum way to nourish babies. It is established that women need informed support from midwives, but the focus of previous research has been predominantly on women's experiences, rather than that of midwives.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to explore midwives' experiences of helping women who were struggling to breastfeed.

Methods:

A qualitative methodology was selected using a phenomenological approach. Some 5 midwives were purposefully recruited and data was collected using semi-structured interviews. Following transcription, data was analysed using Colaizzi's (1978) framework of analysis.

Findings:

Three themes emerged describing midwives' experiences: time poverty, the impact of being ‘with women’, and professional integrity.

Conclusions:

The study revealed that breastfeeding has an emotional impact on midwives. Not being able to spend the time they felt the women needed affected the midwives. With reports of an increasing shortage of midwives, there is concern that time poverty may increase, leading to a greater sense of professional dissatisfaction.
McDonaldisation: does it affect you as an HCA or AP?
Authors: Mobeen Junaid , Hayes Catherine , Fulton John
Published: June 2016

Establishing the factors resultant from the regulation of healthcare assistant (HCA) practice will be the ongoing focus of research for several years. One of the most obvious, from a sociological perspective, is the concept of ‘McDonaldisation’. Since bureaucratic management styles dominate in the National Health Service (NHS), there is relevance to considering the impact of the theory to practice for HCAs, at a time of distinct strategic and emergent change for the role of the HCA in relation to political and legislative drivers, such as the Care Certificate.

This article makes accessible and explores the impact of McDonaldisation on the role of the HCA and the identity of this huge sector of the healthcare workforce in hospital and community settings. By presenting both positive and negative aspects of McDonaldisation, core recommendations are made, based on the potential of HCAs as an often undervalued and overlooked sector of the healthcare sector to further develop.

The article first outlines what McDonaldisation is, for those HCAs who may not be familiar with the term, and encourages reasoned debate about what bureaucracy and change might potentially mean in practice, in terms of positive and negative impact.

The article concludes with recommendations for the implementation of McDonaldisation, where possible positive impacts can be identified. It provides a critical lens for HCAs in circumstances where McDonaldisation could have a potentially negative or constraining impact on HCA practice.
Use of closed-system drug transfer devices in the handling and administration of MABs
Authors: Meade Elizabeth
Published: June 2016

There is a lack of research and consensus on the long-term risks of occupational exposure to monoclonal antibodies. There is, however, some risk to health professionals who are involved in their preparation and administration. This article discusses the use of closed-system drug transfer devices to minimise exposure, and touches on the importance of aseptic techniques, personal protective equipment, and appropriate education and training for health professionals
Staying safe on Beep Beep Day
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: June 2016

The government has asked early years settings to promote British values; these lend themselves to activities that will help children to stay safe around roads and vehicles.
A sumptuous taste of summer
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: June 2016

This sweet, healthy and easy to grow fruit is always an instant hit. In this article, we share some tips for growing, harvesting and cooking strawberries, and of course, eating them!
Respond to behaviour
Authors: Martland Rebecca
Published: June 2016

In the May issue we looked at how we can understand children's behaviour in light of popular theories; in this follow-up, we look at how adults can appropriately respond.
This stag is all bark and no bite
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: June 2016

This is the second in a series that explores the lives of different insects that live in the woods, parks and gardens of the UK. This month we explore the world of stag beetles.
Gardening together works better
Authors: Ward Sue
Published: June 2016

In the second of a series of extracts from The Early Years Gardening Handbook by Sue Ward (Practical Pre-School Books) we look at how we can involve children in planning.
Reconsideration of iodine in wound irrigation: the effects on Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation
Authors: Kanno E. , Tanno H. , Suzuki A. , Kamimatsuno R. , Tachi M.
Published: June 2016

Objective:

Chronic skin wounds are usually colonised with bacteria and subsequent infection may develop. Topical antiseptics are commonly used to control bacterial colonisation. The topical antiseptic, 1% polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine (PVP-I), that is used on chronic open skin wounds remains controversial in the clinical setting because of its cytotoxicity. Here, we tested 1% PVP-I solution against saline to determine if it reduces bacterial count on the wound surface and within the tissue that may lead to wound reduction.

Method:

Open wounds that were created on the backs of Sprague Dawley rats were inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa at the wound surface. Wounds were kept covered except for wound irrigation, two days post-wounding, wounds were irrigated daily using a 10ml syringe and spray tip.

Results:

Our results indicate that 1% PVP-I irrigation resulted in a reduced bacterial count on the wound surface and within the tissue compared with saline irrigation. The 1% PVP-I irrigation promoted wound re-epithelialisation compared with saline irrigation, but it did not reach significance.

Conclusion:

These results indicated that irrigation with 1% PVP-I was an effective way to reduce bacterial count on the wound surface, and allow the wound to progress to healing.

Declaration of interest:

This work was supported in part by a Grant-in-aid for Scientific Research (B) (21390476) and a Grant-in-aid for Scientific Research (C) (25463284) from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan. The authors state no financial conflict of interest.
Novel biodegradable hydrogel sponge containing curcumin and honey for wound healing
Authors: Momin M. , Kurhade S. , Khanekar P. , Mhatre S.
Published: June 2016

Objective:

To develop and evaluate a biodegradable superporous hydrogel based wound healing composite of chitosan and alginate incorporated with curcumin and honey.

Method:

A 32 factorial design was adopted to optimise the honey-curcumin hydrogel composite sponge (CHS). Sodium alginate and chitosan were dissolved in deionised water and 1% aqueous acetic acid solution at room temperature, respectively. Ethanolic solution of curcumin was poured into the chitosan solution followed by an addition of sodium alginate solution. In situ polymerisation was carried out by adding acrylamide base components to the polymeric solution of curcumin. Finally, honey was added with slow stirring and a sponge was cast on a glass surface by solvent evaporation at 45ºC. The produced sponge was assessed for swelling capacity, moisture loss, tensile strength, biocompatibility, bioadhesion, biodegradation, drug diffusion and wound healing properties. The morphology of CHS was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results:

The optimised CHS demonstrated a high swelling capacity (111.05 ± 05%), tensile strength (4323gm/mm2 ), in vitro drug diffusion (75.03 ± 3.59%/20days), bioadhesion (20 ± 0.2mg force) and ability of water vapour transmission. A rapid induction of tissue granulation and re-epithelialisation was observed. Time to complete healing (94.14 ± 1.04% wound contraction) was 7 ± 2 days.

Conclusion:

This study has shown that honey-curcumin hydrogel composite sponge can be formulated by a simple mixing and in situ polymerisation method. The hydrogel base provided a dry wound bed due to excellent fluid absorption capacity. Chitosan and honey contributed to effective faster wound healing. We recommend further clinical studies of the soft sponge wound healing composite for diabetic foot or pressure ulcers.

Declaration of interest:

The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
Research roundup: June 2016
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: June 2016

In brief

The UK probably underestimates the prevalence of medical errors, which might now be the third leading cause of death in the USA Prescriptions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder drugs increased by almost 800% between 2000 and 2015 Varenicline and bupropion do not seem to increase the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse events compared to nicotine patches or placebo; varenicline is more effective at helping patients quit than placebo, nicotine patches and bupropion Some studies associate sulfonylureas with cardiovascular events, but a new meta-analysis is reassuring
Pharmacological options for encouraging smokers to quit
Authors: Bostock-Cox Beverley
Published: June 2016

This article discusses the evidence-based pharmacological interventions for smoking cessation, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), varenicline and bupropion. Regimens should be tailored to fit the individual patient, bearing in mind the level of addiction, previous attempts to quit smoking, and personal circumstances and preferences. The article also presents approaches to behavioural change in smoking cessation. Prescribers should deliver individualised care, particularly when caring for patients in at-risk groups, such as those with poor mental health or women who are pregnant. Health professionals should also be aware of the increasing popularity of hookah (shisha pipe) smoking, which is just as dangerous as regular smoking, and e-cigarettes, which, although they may be a useful tool to quit smoking, should not be seen as long-term alternatives to standard cigarettes.
Introducing nurse independent and supplementary prescribing to Jersey
Authors: McMahon Martin , White Geoff
Published: June 2016

Around the world countries are introducing nurse independent and supplementary prescribing in response to increased socioeconomic and political demands. The introduction of non-medical prescribing in Jersey has been challenging but worthwhile. Non-medical prescribing, as in other countries, is seen as a safe and effective method of delivering patient care that provides significant cost savings; however, non-medical prescribers' powers and roles differ across the countries that have taken up the practice. This article documents the States of Jersey's journey from commissioning and the implementation of non-medical prescribing, to now.
Management and prevention of problems in ageing skin
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: June 2016

The integrity of an older person's skin changes over time, as part of the natural ageing process. Jean Watkins discusses how early recognition and management of these changes may help to reduce or avert some of the problems that ageing skin can cause
Identifying and managing constipation in older people
Authors: Lee Amanda
Published: June 2016

Constipation is a preventable condition, but one that can require complex intervention if not identified and managed early. Amanda Lee considers why elderly residents are at an increased risk and the warning signs to look out for
Case law: an extra-long working week?
Authors: Stevens Mark
Published: June 2016

Can you legally ask care home workers to work an 84-hour week, under current EU legislation? Employment lawyer, Mark Stevens, provides a 2015 case study of a Court of Justice of the European Free Trade Association States (EFTA Court) ruling
Identification of growth hormone gene variation in exon region at Indonesian Local Cattle based on PCR-SSCP method
Authors: RAHMATULLAH SURYA NUR , JAKARIA JAKARIA , NOOR RONNY R
Published: June 2016

Rahmatullah SN, Jakaria, Noor RR. 2016. Identification of growth hormone gene variation in exon region at Indonesian Local Cattle based on PCR-SSCP method. Biodiversitas 17: 492-497. The aim of this study was to identify the polymorphisms of the growth hormone gene (GH) of Indonesian local cattle as well as two exotic cattle, as the outside group, using polymerase chain reaction and single strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP) and using five primers DNA to identify polymorphism of GH gene. Twenty DNA samples of each Indonesian local cattle, consists of Bali, Pesisir, Madura and Katingan, and ten DNA samples of Simmental and Limousine cattle were used. The results showed that the polymorphism of the GH gene was found in three exons which are exon 1, 2 and 5 for Indonesian local cattle except for the Bali and Madura cattle that showed polymorphism was only at exon 2. Bali and Madura cattle also showed monomorphism in exon 3 and 4. On the other hand, the exotic breed showed the polymorphism in all exons, except for exon 2 in Simmental cattle which was found to be monomorphic.
Alive or dead? Face to face with contemporary dance
Authors: Claid Emilyn
Published: June 2016

At a time when artists are questioning twenty-first-century dance for its contemporary-ness, this writing exposes a tension that plays across differing choreographic processes – a tension that suggests a widening rift between letting go into collaborative uncertainty and the creation of single authored productions of spectacle. I suggest that a move away from spectacle in the United Kingdom is exacerbated by various wider themes such as practice as research, somatics, digital technology and neo-liberalism, all of which have deeply affected artists’ performance processes. Particular emphasis is given to how shifts in institutionally driven dance training and education are affecting performance, and the writing draws attention to what artists might have in common across the divide – a passionate engagement with how we communicate what we do with others.
ChIP and Chips: Introducing the WormPharm for correlative studies employing pharmacology and genome-wide analyses in C. elegans
Authors: H. Doh Jung , B. Moore Andrew , Çelen İrem , T. Moore Michael , R. Sabanayagam Chandran
Published: June 2016

We present the WormPharm, an automated microfluidic platform that utilizes an axenic medium to culture C. elegans. The WormPharm is capable of sustaining C elegans for extended periods, while recording worm development and growth with high temporal resolution ranging from seconds to minutes over several days to months. We demonstrate the utility of the device to monitor C. elegans growth in the presence of varying doses of nicotine and alcohol. Furthermore, we show that C. elegans cultured in the WormPharm are amendable for high-throughput genomic assays, i.e. chromatin-immunoprecipitation followed by next generation sequencing, and confirm that nematodes grown in monoxenic and axenic cultures exhibit genetic modifications that correlate with observed phenotypes. The WormPharm is a powerful tool for analyzing the effects of chemical, nutritional and environmental variations on organism level responses in conjunction with genome-wide changes in C. elegans.
Editorial 32(2): From Tinkering to Systemic Change
Authors: Heinrich Eva , Henderson Michael , Dalgarno Barney
Published: June 2016

We applaud the work in educational technology innovation and research that adds to our understanding of how technologies can improve the teaching and learning experience within well-defined learning systems. However, we also see a potential for critical research around digital technologies in relation to higher education as a system. In this edutorial ee encourage researchers to report on empirical studies or rigorously supported conceptual work that fundamentally reconceptualises teaching in higher education and critically questions existing configurations.
Centralised Biological Therapy Registry for Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis – Overview and Methodology
Authors: Sutka R , Pec J , Pecova T
Published: June 2016

The introduction of new pharmacotherapy entities in the last decade accentuate the necessity to set up treatment guidelines based on real life evidence. Randomized controlled trials remain golden standard of a research. Data derived from studies aiming on daily clinical practice should bring needed, added value. Disease prevalence growth, due to increased life expectancy, better diagnostic procedures and earlier medical intervention, as well as ever growing demand for highly priced, sophistically produced drugs put stress on healthcare budgets even in developed countries. Large databases commonly called - therapy registries are implemented to collect data on therapy effectivity in terms of effectiveness, safety and patient long-term on therapy survival. Registries importance rose together with biological therapies introduction. New in class molecules entered the market conditionally being obliged to provide additional e.g. safety data. Such procedures require involvement of many different professionals, e.g. physicians, professional medical bodies, IT experts, database administrators, statisticians and government institutions. Paper based, followed by computer based forms were distributed among physicians to collect these data. eHealth technologies provide physicians with centralized, more intuitive applications. The particularities of different diagnosis caused great variations within each specific registry launched. Important information was missing since they were pointed out as optional and many were redundant causing frustration among physicians due to inadequate administrative workload. The main objective of this work was to set up the therapy registry standards and procedures. Methodology of „ideal“ moderate to severe plaque psoriasis biology therapy registry development, introduction, administration and evaluation was prepared to assist any government institution or professional body when planning registry deployment. Electronic application based on widely used MS Excel platform was developed and installed in the biological therapy centers as a standalone application for the pilot use.
Theoretical study of substituent effects on the geometry and strain enthalpy in [2,2]paracyclophanes
Authors: Michalík Martin , Poliak Peter , Lukeš Vladimír
Published: June 2016

The substituent effect on the geometry and strain enthalpy of [2,2]paracyclophane is theoretically investigated by density functional theory. Gas-phase calculations were performed for twenty distinct electron donating and electron withdrawing substituents. The largest out-of-plane distortion of phenyl rings is exhibited by —SCN and —CF3 groups. On the other hand, —OH, —CH3 and —F groups show the minimal deformation. The strain enthalpy for unsubstituted [2,2]paracyclophane associated with repulsive forces between phenyl units reached up to 118.5 kJ mol−1. Any substitution causes increase of the strain enthalpy value proportionally to the absolute values of Hammett para-substituent constants. Two separate linear dependences with similar slopes were obtained for monosubstituted as well as double symmetrically substituted derivatives.
Heavy metals determination using various in situ bismuth film modified carbon-based electrodes
Authors: Sochr Jozef , Machková Martina , Machyňák Ľubomír , Čacho František , Švorc Ľubomír
Published: June 2016

The proposed work deals with the utilization of three carbon-based electrode substrates such as boron-doped diamond, glassy carbon and carbon paste for the preparation of in situ bismuth film modified electrodes. Such modified electrodes were subsequently used for the differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetric determination of heavy metal cations (Zn2+, Cd2+ and Pb2+) individually and simultaneously using similar experimental conditions (0.1 mol l−1 acetic buffer solution of pH 4.5 as supporting electrolyte with the addition of 0.1 mmol l−1 Bi3+, deposition potential of −1.4 V and deposition time of 120 s). The results showed that the modification step mostly enhanced the deposition and stripping process of studied cations when compared to the bare electrode substrates. A boron-doped diamond electrode was selected as the substrate for modification and the procedure was applied to the real sample analysis including water sample (certified reference material) and wastewater sample. Using the standard addition method the concentrations of particular heavy metals were quantified and the determined values were in a good agreement with those obtained by the reference method — high resolution atomic absorption spectroscopy with electrothermal atomisation and continual radiation source. This fact highlights that the developed in situ bismuth film modified boron-doped diamond electrode is a suitable electrochemical sensor to be applied to routine analysis of water samples containing heavy metals.
Immobilization of urease enzyme on nanoceria modifies secondary and tertiary protein structures
Authors: Al-Hakeim Hussein Kadhem , Khudhair Muneer Kadhem , Grulke Eric Anderson
Published: June 2016

Urease catalyzes the hydrolysis of urea to form ammonia and carbon dioxide. The increase in pH from the urease reaction causes a broad range of deleterious effects. Nanoceria (cerium oxide) possesses unique chemical properties under a redox reaction. This study investigated the synthesis of nanoceria via a hydrothermal method and determined its interaction with urease enzyme.

Transmission electron microscopy results showed a cubic-figured nanoceria with a size of ~15 nm. Urease was immobilized on nanoceria through adsorption. The maximum velocity (V
max) and Michaelis constant (K
m) of the free urease and urease immobilized on nanoceria decreased after interaction with nanoceria, and the Lineweaver-Burk plot showed an uncompetitive inhibition. The thermodynamic study of the adsorption process showed an endothermic reaction. The interaction changed the secondary and tertiary structures of urease as demonstrated by the circular dichroism study (the decrease in both α- and β-structure percentages). The fluorescence study revealed a change in the tertiary structure. The FTIR for the nanoceria—urease complex showed no changes in the covalent bonds, which indicated the involvement of physical forces in the interaction between urease and nanoceria.
Comparing Transformation Possibilities of Topological Functioning Model and BPMN in the Context of Model Driven Architecture
Authors: Solomencevs Artūrs
Published: June 2016

The approach called “Topological Functioning Model for Software Engineering” (TFM4SE) applies the Topological Functioning Model (TFM) for modelling the business system in the context of Model Driven Architecture. TFM is a mathematically formal computation independent model (CIM). TFM4SE is compared to an approach that uses BPMN as a CIM. The comparison focuses on CIM modelling and on transformation to UML Sequence diagram on the platform independent (PIM) level. The results show the advantages and drawbacks the formalism of TFM brings into the development.
Introduction to Lean Canvas Transformation Models and Metrics in Software Testing
Authors: Nidagundi Padmaraj , Novickis Leonids
Published: June 2016

Software plays a key role nowadays in all fields, from simple up to cutting-edge technologies and most of technology devices now work on software. Software development verification and validation have become very important to produce the high quality software according to business stakeholder requirements. Different software development methodologies have given a new dimension for software testing. In traditional waterfall software development software testing has approached the end point and begins with resource planning, a test plan is designed and test criteria are defined for acceptance testing. In this process most of test plan is well documented and it leads towards the time-consuming processes. For the modern software development methodology such as agile where long test processes and documentations are not followed strictly due to small iteration of software development and testing, lean canvas transformation models can be a solution. This paper provides a new dimension to find out the possibilities of adopting the lean transformation models and metrics in the software test plan to simplify the test process for further use of these test metrics on canvas.
Multi-UAV Flight using Virtual Structure Combined with Behavioral Approach
Authors: Kownacki Cezary
Published: June 2016

Implementations of multi-UAV systems can be divided mainly into two different approaches, centralised system that synchronises positions of each vehicle by a ground station and an autonomous system based on decentralised control, which offers more flexibility and independence. Decentralisation of multi-UAV control entails the need for information sharing between all vehicles, what in some cases could be problematic due to a significant amount of data to be sent over the wireless network. To improve the reliability and the throughput of information sharing inside the formation of UAVs, this paper proposes an approach that combines virtual structure with a leader and two flocking behaviours. Each UAV has assigned different virtual migration point referenced to the leader's position which is simultaneously the origin of a formation reference frame. All migration points create together a virtual rigid structure. Each vehicle uses local behaviours of cohesion and repulsion respectively, to track its own assigned point in the structure and to avoid a collision with the previous UAV in the structure. To calculate parameters of local behaviours, each UAV should know position and attitude of the leader to define the formation reference frame and also the actual position of the previous UAV in the structure. Hence, information sharing can be based on a chain of local peer-to-peer communication between two consecutive vehicles in the structure. In such solution, the information about the leader could be sequentially transmitted from one UAV to another. Numerical simulations were prepared and carried out to verify the effectiveness of the presented approach. Trajectories recorded during those simulations show collective, coherence and collision-free flights of the formation created with five UAVs.
The Use of Spectral Method for Fatigue Life Assessment for Non-Gaussian Random Loads
Authors: Niesłony Adam , Böhm Michał , Łagoda Tadeusz , Cianetti Filippo
Published: June 2016

The well-known problem with the fatigue lifetime assessment of non-Gaussian loading signals with the use of spectral method has been presented in the paper. A correction factors that transform the non-Gaussian signal into an equivalent Gaussian signal proposed by Bracessi et al. (2009) has been used for the purpose of lifetime calculations together with Palmgren-Miner Hypothesis. The calculations have been performed for the 10HNAP steel under random non-Gaussian load with four dominating frequencies. The signal has been generated on the test stand SHM250 for random tension-compression tests. The results with zero and non-zero mean stresses have been used to calculate the fatigue life with the frequency domain method based on Dirlik’s model and with a time domain method with the use of the rainflow cycle counting algorithm. The obtained calculation results have been compared with experimental results.
Influence of Corrugation Depth on Lateral Stability of Cold-Formed Steel Beams of Corrugated Webs
Authors: Ungureanu Viorel , Dubina Dan
Published: June 2016

The beams of thin corrugated web afford a significant weight reduction compared with hot-rolled or welded ones. In the initial solutions, the flanges are made of flat plates, welded to the sinusoidal web sheet, requiring a specific welding technology. A new solution is proposed by the authors, in which the beam is composed by a web of trapezoidal cold-formed steel sheet and flanges of back-to-back lipped channel sections. For connecting flanges to the web self-drilling screws are used. The paper summarizes the experimental and numerical investigations carried out at the CEMSIG Research Centre (www.ct.upt.ro/centre/cemsig/) of the Politehnica University of Timisoara and, at the end, presents the influence of corrugation depth of web on the lateral stability of the beams.
The Parameter Correlation of Acoustic Emission and High-Frequency Vibrations in the Assessment Process of the Operating State of the Technical System
Authors: Baron Petr , Dobránsky Jozef , Pollák Martin , Kočiško Marek , Cmorej Tomáš
Published: June 2016

The article describes application of selected methods of technical diagnostics for assessing the operating status of precision gearboxes. Within the confines of experimental measurements in the field of physical metallurgy materials of diagnosed system were being examined while taking into account the process of degradation of material properties during operation of monitored gearboxes. Measurements and collecting of dynamic data were realized on 4 selected gearboxes where a high-frequency vibrations and acoustic emission (noise) measurements were carried out. Retrieved values were subsequently used for mutual correlation and verification of applied methods. Results of both selected methods underlined unsatisfactory operation status with 3 inspected gearboxes. Measured values were identified as being above suggested caution limit of Alarm 2, representing a level of danger.
Direct Current and Pulsed Direct Current Plasma Nitriding of Ferrous Materials a Critical Review
Authors: Łępicka Magdalena , Grądzka-Dahlke Małgorzata
Published: June 2016

Nowadays, the improvement of ferrous materials performance is a problem of high interest. One of well-known wear- and corrosion properties improving technique is plasma nitriding, in which elemental nitrogen is introduced to the surface of a metal part for subsequent diffusion into the material. As a result, a compound, “white” layer and a diffusion zone are formed at the detail’s surface. Most of the authors positively describe the effects of surface ion nitiding. On the other hand, there are also reports on adverse effects of direct current and pulsed direct current plasma nitriding on ferrous materials performance. Therefore, an attempt to provide comprehensive summary on direct current and pulsed direct current ion nitriding and its influence on ferrous materials’ mechanical and corrosion properties has been made. According to the results, some of the technique drawbacks are hard to avoid in mass production.
Harnack inequality for non-divergence structure semi-linear elliptic equations
Authors: Mohammed Ahmed , Porru Giovanni
Published: June 2016

In this paper we establish a Harnack inequality for non-negative solutions ofL⁢u=f⁢(u){Lu=f(u)}whereLis a non-divergence structure uniformly elliptic operator andfis a non-decreasing function that satisfies an appropriate growth conditions at infinity.
A Note on the Sign-Changing Solutions for a Double Critical Hardy–Sobolev–Maz’ya Problem
Authors: Wang Chunhua , Yang Jing
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we investigate the following double critical Hardy–Sobolev–Maz’ya problem:

{

-

Δ
⁢
u

=

μ
⁢

|
u
|

2
*

⁢

(
t
)

-
2

⁢
u

|
y
|

t

+

|
u
|

2
*

⁢

(
s
)

-
2

⁢
u

|
y
|

s

+

a
⁢

(
x
)

⁢
u

in
⁢
Ω

,

u
=
0

on
⁢

∂
⁡
Ω

,

$\left\{\begin{aligned} &\displaystyle{-}\Delta u=\mu\frac{|u|^{2^{*}(t)-2}u}{|% y|^{t}}+\frac{|u|^{2^{*}(s)-2}u}{|y|^{s}}+a(x)u&&\displaystyle\text{in }\Omega% ,\\ &\displaystyle u=0&&\displaystyle\text{on }\partial\Omega,\end{aligned}\right.$

where

μ
≥
0

${\mu\geq 0}$

,

a
⁢

(
x
)

>
0

${a(x)>0}$

,

2
*

⁢

(
t
)

=

2
⁢

(

N
-
t

)

N
-
2

${2^{*}(t)=\frac{2(N-t)}{N-2}}$

,

2
*

⁢

(
s
)

=

2
⁢

(

N
-
s

)

N
-
2

${2^{*}(s)=\frac{2(N-s)}{N-2}}$

,

0
≤
t
<
s
<
2

${0\leq t<s<2}$

,

x
=

(
y
,
z
)

∈

ℝ
k

×

ℝ

N
-
k

${x=(y,z)\in\mathbb{R}^{k}\times\mathbb{R}^{N-k}}$

,

2
≤
k
<
N

,

(
0
,

z
*

)

∈

Ω
¯

$2\leq k<N,(0,z^{*})\in\bar{\Omega}$

and Ω is an open bounded domain in

ℝ
N

${\mathbb{R}^{N}}$

. By applying an abstract theorem presented in [42], we prove that if

N
>

6
+
t

${N>6+t}$

when

μ
>
0

,

${\mu>0,}$

and

N
>

6
+
s

${N>6+s}$

when

μ
=
0

,

${\mu=0,}$

and Ω satisfies some geometric conditions, then the above problem has infinitely many sign-changing solutions. The main tool is to estimate the Morse indices of these nodal solutions.