bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ARKTISK DRAMA OG BIOSOFISK VITALISME: KNUT HAMSUNS DRAMATIKK I LYS AV SJELELIGE LANDSKAP
Authors: Arntzen Knut Ove
Published: April 2016

In this article I try to define arctic drama in a concrete and metaphorical way by touching upon the dramatic oeuvre of Knut Hamsun. In Play of Life Hamsun plays with nature and the polar as topos. The drama, situated in a small market town in the Nordland area of northern Norway, uses coastal nature and culture as a framework. Nature is a driving force in this pre-expressive drama where the mythical enlightens the inner and symbolic dimension of human actions and spiritual conditions. This article will also show how nature is used to reflect the inner world of the characters. I will end with a look into the northern-Norwegian identity, the authorship of Hamsun, and the biosophical dimensions studied by the philosopher Peter Wessel Zappfe.
HAMSUN I TROMSØ
Authors: Knutsen Nils Magne
Published: April 2016

Åpningstale
Metagenomic analysis of nitrogen and methane cycling in the Arabian Sea oxygen minimum zone
Authors: Lüke Claudia , Speth Daan R. , Kox Martine A.R. , Villanueva Laura , Jetten Mike S.M.
Published: April 2016

Oxygen minimum zones (OMZ) are areas in the global ocean where oxygen concentrations drop to below one percent. Low oxygen concentrations allow alternative respiration with nitrate and nitrite as electron acceptor to become prevalent in these areas, making them main contributors to oceanic nitrogen loss. The contribution of anammox and denitrification to nitrogen loss seems to vary in different OMZs. In the Arabian Sea, both processes were reported. Here, we performed a metagenomics study of the upper and core zone of the Arabian Sea OMZ, to provide a comprehensive overview of the genetic potential for nitrogen and methane cycling. We propose that aerobic ammonium oxidation is carried out by a diverse community ofThaumarchaeotain the upper zone of the OMZ, whereas a low diversity ofScalindua-like anammox bacteria contribute significantly to nitrogen loss in the core zone. Aerobic nitrite oxidation in the OMZ seems to be performed byNitrospina spp. and a novel lineage of nitrite oxidizing organisms that is present in roughly equal abundance asNitrospina. Dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (DNRA) can be carried out by yet unknown microorganisms harbouring a divergentnrfAgene. The metagenomes do not provide conclusive evidence for active methane cycling; however, a low abundance of novel alkane monooxygenase diversity was detected. Taken together, our approach confirmed the genomic potential for an active nitrogen cycle in the Arabian Sea and allowed detection of hitherto overlooked lineages of carbon and nitrogen cycle bacteria.
Pharmacokinetics of heroin and its metabolites in vitreous humor and blood in a living pig model
Authors: Gottås André , Arnestad Marianne , Halvorsen Per Steinar , Bachs Liliana C. , Høiseth Gudrun
Published: April 2016

Vitreous humor (VH) is an alternative matrix for drug analysis in forensic toxicology. However, little is known about the distribution of xenobiotics, such as opioids, into VH in living organisms. The aim of this study was to simultaneously measure heroin and metabolite concentrations in blood and VH after injection of heroin in a living pig model. Six pigs were under non-opioid anesthesia during the surgical operation and experiment. Ocular microdialysis was used to acquire dialysate from VH, and a venous catheter was used for blood sampling. Twenty milligrams of heroin was injected intravenously with subsequent sampling of blood and dialysate for 6 h. The samples were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Heroin was not detected in VH; 6-monoacetylmorphine (6-MAM) and morphine were first detected in VH after 60 min. The morphine concentration in VH thereafter increased throughout the experimental period. For 6-MAM, C
max was reached after 230 min in VH. In blood, 6-MAM reached C
max after 0.5 min, with a subsequent biphasic elimination phase. The blood and VH 6-MAM concentrations reached equilibrium after 2 h. In blood, morphine reached C
max after 4.3 min, with a subsequent slower elimination than 6-MAM. The blood and VH morphine concentrations were in equilibrium about 6 h after injection of heroin. In conclusion, both 6-MAM and morphine showed slow transport into VH; detection of 6-MAM in VH did not necessarily reflect a recent intake of heroin. Because postmortem changes are expected to be small in VH, these experimental results could assist the interpretation of heroin deaths.
Neurofibroma solitario en raíz cervical C7
Authors: Gordillo M.P.
Published: April 2016

Los neurofibromas (NF) son tumores que se originan en la vaina de los nervios periféricos. Son poco frecuentes (un 30% aproximadamente de todos los tumores nerviosos) pero tan solo un 1% afectan al plexo cervical supraclavicular. Su desarrollo es lento e insidioso y a menudo confundido con otras patologías como son las neuropatías por compresión o las tendinopatías.

Se presenta un caso localizado en la raíz C7 de una mujer de 48 años diagnosticada y tratada durante un año de tendinopatía de «De Quervain».
A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial of 6-Step vs 3-Step Hand Hygiene Technique in Acute Hospital Care in the United Kingdom
Authors: Reilly Jacqui S. , Price Lesley , Lang Sue , Robertson Chris , Cheater Francine , Skinner Kirsty , Chow Angela
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the microbiologic effectiveness of the World Health Organization’s 6-step and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 3-step hand hygiene techniques using alcohol-based handrub.

DESIGN

A parallel group randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

An acute care inner-city teaching hospital (Glasgow).

PARTICIPANTS

Doctors (n=42) and nurses (n=78) undertaking direct patient care.

INTERVENTION

Random 1:1 allocation of the 6-step (n=60) or the 3-step (n=60) technique.

RESULTS

The 6-step technique was microbiologically more effective at reducing the median log10 bacterial count. The 6-step technique reduced the count from 3.28 CFU/mL (95% CI, 3.11–3.38 CFU/mL) to 2.58 CFU/mL (2.08–2.93 CFU/mL), whereas the 3-step reduced it from 3.08 CFU/mL (2.977–3.27 CFU/mL) to 2.88 CFU/mL (−2.58 to 3.15 CFU/mL) (P=.02). However, the 6-step technique did not increase the total hand coverage area (98.8% vs 99.0%, P=.15) and required 15% (95% CI, 6%-24%) more time (42.50 seconds vs 35.0 seconds, P=.002). Total hand coverage was not related to the reduction in bacterial count.

CONCLUSIONS

Two techniques for hand hygiene using alcohol-based handrub are promoted in international guidance, the 6-step by the World Health Organization and 3-step by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The study provides the first evidence in a randomized controlled trial that the 6-step technique is superior, thus these international guidance documents should consider this evidence, as should healthcare organizations using the 3-step technique in practice.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;37:661–666
The Role of Nursing Homes in the Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance Over the Healthcare Network
Authors: van den Dool Carline , Haenen Anja , Leenstra Tjalling , Wallinga Jacco
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

Recerntly, the role of the healthcare network, defined as a set of hospitals linked by patient transfers, has been increasingly considered in the control of antimicrobial resistance. Here, we investigate the potential impact of nursing homes on the spread of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens across the healthcare network and its importance for control strategies.

METHODS

Based on patient transfer data, we designed a network model representing the Dutch healthcare system of hospitals and nursing homes. We simulated the spread of an antimicrobial-resistant pathogen across the healthcare network, and we modeled transmission within institutions using a stochastic susceptible–infected–susceptible (SIS) epidemic model. Transmission between institutions followed transfers. We identified the contribution of nursing homes to the dispersal of the pathogen by comparing simulations of the network with and without nursing homes.

RESULTS

Our results strongly suggest that nursing homes in the Netherlands have the potential to drive and sustain epidemics across the healthcare network. Even when the daily probability of transmission in nursing homes is much lower than in hospitals, transmission of resistance can be more effective because of the much longer length of stay of patients in nursing homes.

CONCLUSIONS

If an antimicrobial-resistant pathogen emerges that spreads easily within nursing homes, control efforts aimed at hospitals may no longer be effective in preventing nationwide outbreaks. It is important to consider nursing homes in planning regional and national infection control and in implementing surveillance systems that monitor the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2016;37:761–767
Large-eddy simulation and parameterization of buoyant plume dynamics in stratified flow
Authors: Yang Di , Chen Bicheng , Socolofsky Scott A. , Chamecki Marcelo , Meneveau Charles
Published: April 2016

Characteristics of laboratory-scale bubble-driven buoyant plumes in a stably stratified quiescent fluid are studied using large-eddy simulation (LES). As a bubble plume entrains stratified ambient water, its net buoyancy decreases due to the increasing density difference between the entrained and ambient fluids. A large fraction of the entrained fluid eventually detrains and falls along an annular outer plume from a height of maximum rise (peel height) to a neutral buoyancy level (trap height), during which less buoyant scalars (e.g. small droplets) are trapped and dispersed horizontally, forming quasi-horizontal intrusion layers. The inner/outer double-plume structure and the peel/intrusion process are found to be more distinct for cases with small bubble rise velocity, while weak and unstable when the slip velocity is large. LES results are averaged to generate distributions of mean velocity and turbulent fluxes. These distributions provide data for assessing the performance of previously developed closures used in one-dimensional integral plume models. In particular, the various LES cases considered in this study yield consistent behaviour for the entrainment coefficients for various plume cases. Furthermore, a new continuous peeling model is derived based on the insights obtained from LES results. Comparing to previous peeling models, the new model behaves in a more self-consistent manner, and it is expected to provide more reliable performance when applied in integral plume models.
WHENTHE ZIONIST IDEACAME TO BEIRUT: JUDAISM, CHRISTIANITY, AND THE PALESTINE LIBERATION ORGANIZATION'S TRANSLATION OF ZIONISM
Authors: Gribetz Jonathan Marc
Published: April 2016

In 1970, the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Research Center in Beirut published an Arabic translation ofThe Zionist Idea, an anthology of classic Zionist texts compiled originally by Arthur Hertzberg in 1959. This article compares how the two versions present the biographies and motivations of key Zionist ideologues. It suggests that, in contrast to Hertzberg, the PLO researchers tended to present Zionism, especially at its roots, as a Jewishreligiousmovement. Attempting to discern what might lie behind this conception of Zionism, the article considers the significance of the religious backgrounds of the leadership of the PLO Research Center and of those involved in the translation project. It argues that the researchers’ concern about the status of Christians as a religious minority among Palestinians and other Arabs and certain deeply rooted Christian ideas about the nature of Judaism may help account for the particular view of Zionism that the Research Center developed in its—and in the PLO's—foundational years.
PRAYER AND THE ISLAMIC REVIVAL: A TIMELY CHALLENGE
Authors: Rock-Singer Aaron
Published: April 2016

This article traces the emergence of the early afternoonẓuhrprayer as a key project of subject formation during the second half of the Anwar al-Sadat period (1976–81). Drawing on three Islamic magazines of differing ideological orientation (Muslim Brotherhood-Islamist, Salafi-Islamist, and state-sponsored), all containing letters to the editor and fatwa requests, it charts contestation among religious elites and the reception of their programmatic visions. Specifically, the article explores the performance of this daily prayer as a hybrid practice that disrupted the temporal and spatial claims of a state-sponsored bureaucratic order to produce national subjects within public schools and bureaucratic institutions, even as it reproduced the state's emphasis on temporal precision and social order. Based on these texts, this article challenges previous scholarly narratives that place Islamist projects of subject formation on the fringes of secularism and previous studies of Islamist mobilization that posit a separate social universe of Islamist activism.
INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN AGENCIES AND IRAQI MIGRATION IN PRECONFLICT SYRIA
Authors: Hoffmann Sophia
Published: April 2016

During the Iraqi refugee crisis of 2007–10, international humanitarian organizations appeared for the first time in the Syrian domestic arena. These aid providers interpreted the position of Iraqi refugees in Syria according to a liberal conception of state–citizen relations that did not accord with the Syrian government's actual approach to Iraqis. Guided by this liberal frame, humanitarian organizations introduced biopolitical programs into the Syrian domestic context. Through new forms of population management, they solicited forms of behavior from Iraqis that were different from those required by Syrian state authorities. Drawing on the concept of biopower and using ethnographic material drawn from long-term research in Damascus in 2009–10, this article sheds light on an important political development in Syria shortly before the outbreak of social unrest and on the social changes that international humanitarian aid may transport.
Punctuated Humanitarianism: Palestinian Life between the Catastrophic and the Cruddy
Authors: Feldman Ilana
Published: April 2016

With a more than sixty-seven-year displacement, the Palestinian refugee case is an extreme instance of a widespread phenomenon: the need for humanitarian organizations that are oriented toward emergency to respond to circumstances that are “protracted.” Humanitarian practice does change as needs on the ground change, but long-term need and displacement poses both definitional and practical challenges for this work. The broad trajectory of Palestinian refugee experience has moved from “crisis” to chronic needs—what Elizabeth Povinelli calls “cruddy” conditions. Povinelli specifically contrasts suffering that is “catastrophic, crisis-laden, and sublime” with that which is “ordinary, chronic, and cruddy.” Palestinians share experiences of poverty and immobility with others around the world who are part of what is sometimes referred to as the “precariat.” It is this sort of suffering, which often persists below the threshold of an “event,” that Povinelli terms cruddy.
A REPLY TO TIMUR KURAN
Authors: Yaycioğlu Ali
Published: April 2016

Scholars are justified in complaining that Ottoman studies, from its maturation in the 1950s until today, has been far too integrated into social science disciplines. Traditionally, political and economic history has dominated the field at the expense of cultural history, literary studies, and the history of art, architecture, and material culture. The recent juncture of social science concerns and the sensitivities of the humanities is a welcome but long overdue development. Social science disciplines have long held sway over the field, but scholars of Ottoman history have always exercised rigor and meticulous care in editing and publishing historical documents and literary texts. Editors often discuss the literary, philological, and codicological problems of historical documents in great detail, the conceptual universe in which the documents exist, and their limits and possibilities. Of course, “editing” often includes textual criticism, the conscientious work of transliteration, and, sometimes, translation. Despite numerous invaluable editions of archival and nonarchival material drawn from the Ottoman centuries, we still lack substantial statistical information and data to answer major questions that historians and social scientists have long asked. In this respect, what Timur Kuran (and his team) initiated marks an important step. They published a massive compilation of ten volumes of documents selected from the two qadi courts of Istanbul during the 17th century.
Evaluation of early maturing cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) germplasm for variation in phosphorus use efficiency and biological nitrogen fixation potential with indigenous rhizobial populations
Authors: ABAIDOO R. , DARE M. O. , KILLANI S. , OPOKU A.
Published: April 2016

Cowpea genotypes that efficiently utilize phosphorus (P) with high potential for biological nitrogen (N) fixation (BNF) are vital to sustainable cropping systems in West Africa. A total of 175 early maturing cowpea genotypes were evaluated in 2010 and 2011 for P use efficiency (PUE) and BNF with an indigenous rhizobial population at Shika in the Northern Guinea savanna of Nigeria. There were significant genotypic variations for all 11 variables measured. The P utilization index, percentage N derived from the atmosphere and total N fixed ranged between 2·10–4·67, 31·3–61·86% and 11·86–50 kg/ha, respectively. The 175 early maturing cowpea genotypes were divided into five categories using principal component analysis (PCA), whereby total N fixed was associated with N and P uptake and plant biomass yield. Complete linkage cluster analysis revealed a total of three distinctive clusters having remarkable correspondence with the PCA. Some genotypes were identified as potential candidates for further breeding programmes using high PUE genotypes with relatively high capacity for BNF and indigenous rhizobial populations.
Patterns of change in soil organic matter, physical properties and crop productivity under tillage practices and cropping systems in Bangladesh
Authors: ALAM MD. KHAIRUL , SALAHIN N. , ISLAM S. , BEGUM R. A. , HASANUZZAMAN M. , ISLAM M. S. , RAHMAN M. M.
Published: April 2016

Conservation agriculture (CA) is inadequately developed for rice-based cropping systems widely practiced in Bangladesh. The current drawback is the implementation of CA for all crops including rice (Oryza sativaL., ecotype ‘transplanted aman’ [T. aman]) to increase rice–wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) rotation productivity. It is important to identify the best combination of tillage types and cropping systems to achieve a high yield of component crops and improve soil health. Three tillage practices, assigned to main experimental plots [namely, zero tillage (ZT), conventional tillage using a rotary tiller (CT) and deep tillage using a chisel plough (DT)] and three different cropping systems, assigned to sub-plots [namely, WFT: wheat–fallow–T. aman, WMT: wheat–mungbean (Vigna radiataL. Wilczek)–T. aman and WDT: wheat–dhaincha (Sesbania rostrata)–T. aman], were tested. After 4 years, ZT under WDT and WMT significantly increased soil organic matter (SOM) at 0–150 mm depth, and these replicates also held the highest levels of total organic carbon. Soil organic carbon (C) increased at a rate of 1.17 and 1.14 t/ha/y in ZT under WDT and WMT, respectively, while CT and DT under WFT were almost unchanged. After 4 years, SOM build-up by the three-crop system (WDT and WMT) under ZT helped conserve soil moisture and improve other soil properties, such as reduction in soil strength and bulk density and increase plant available water content, thus maintaining an optimum soil water infiltration rate. Zero tillage under WMT and WDT showed significant improvements in root mass density of rice and wheat at increased soil depth. The WDT and WMT plots under DT consistently gave the highest yield followed by WDT and WMT under CT, in contrast with ZT under WMT or WDT, which showed the highest improvement in crop yields over the years. In summary, minimum soil disturbance together with incorporation of a legume/green manure crop into the rice–wheat system as well as the retention of their residues increased soil C status, improved soil properties and maximized grain yields.
Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism heritability of nicotine dependence as a multidimensional phenotype
Authors: Bidwell L. C. , Palmer R. H. C. , Brick L. , McGeary J. E. , Knopik V. S.
Published: April 2016

Background

Heritability estimates from twin studies of the multi-faceted phenotype of nicotine dependence (ND) range from moderate to high (31–60%), but vary substantially based on the specific ND-related construct examined. The current study estimated the aggregate role of common genetic variants on key ND constructs.

Method

Genomic-relationship-matrix restricted maximum likelihood (GREML) was used to decompose phenotypic variance across multiple ND indices using 796 125 polymorphisms from 2346 unrelated ‘lifetime ever smokers’ of European ancestry. Measures included DSM-IV ND and Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) summary measures and constituent constructs (e.g. withdrawal severity, tolerance, heaviness of smoking and time spent smoking). Exploratory and confirmatory factor models were used to describe the covariance structure across ND measures; resulting factor(s) were the subject(s) of GREML analyses.

Results

Factor models indicated highly correlated DSM-IV and FTND factors for ND (0.545, 95% confidence interval 0.50–0.60) that could be represented as a higher-order factor (NIC DEP). Additive genetic influence on NIC DEP was 33% (s.e. = 0.14, p = 0.009). Post-hoc analyses indicated moderate genetic effects on the DSM-IV (34%, s.e. = 0.14, p = 0.008) and FTND (26%, s.e. = 0.14, p = 0.032) factors, both of which were influenced by the same genetic effects (rG-SNP = 1.00, s.e. = 0.09, p < 0.00001).

Conclusions

Overall, common single nucleotide polymorphisms accounted for a large proportion of the genetic influences on ND-related phenotypes that have been observed in twin studies. Genetic contributions across distinct ND scales were largely influenced by shared genetic factors.
The supportive network: rural disadvantaged older people and ICT
Authors: BAKER STEVEN , WARBURTON JENI , HODGKIN SUZANNE , PASCAL JAN
Published: April 2016

The rapid development of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) is profoundly transforming the social order, into what Spanish sociologist Manuel Castells callsthe network society. Mobile technologies, such as smartphones and tablet computers, are perhaps the definitive tools of the network society; however, cultural and economic barriers exist that restrict access to these transformative tools and to the information networks in which they operate. One group that is particularly at risk is rural older people from disadvantaged backgrounds. This paper reports on one aspect of a larger action research project that involved working with a small group of rural, socially isolated older people with histories of homelessness and complex needs (N = 7) and their social workers. This paper focuses on the older participants who, having been provided tablet computers, were then supported to use the device in their homes over the course of eight months. Despite most participants having never used a computing device of any kind prior to the research project, findings suggested that participants gained confidence, independence and social engagement as a result of their ICT use. Results also highlighted that they experienced challenges in utilising ICT, specifically technical, economic and social barriers. Findings highlight the individual and structural issues that must be addressed to enable all citizens to participate fully in the network society.
Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals: 2014 Update
Authors: Marschall Jonas , Mermel Leonard A. , Fakih Mohamad , Hadaway Lynn , Kallen Alexander , O’Grady Naomi P. , Pettis Ann Marie , Rupp Mark E. , Sandora Thomas , Maragakis Lisa L. , Yokoe Deborah S.
Published: April 2016

Previously published guidelines are available that provide comprehensive recommendations for detecting and preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). The intent of this document is to highlight practical recommendations in a concise format designed to assist acute care hospitals in implementing and prioritizing their central line-associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) prevention efforts. This document updates “Strategies to Prevent Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Acute Care Hospitals,” published in 2008. This expert guidance document is sponsored by the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) and is the product of a collaborative effort led by SHEA, the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), the American Hospital Association (AHA), the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC), and The Joint Commission, with major contributions from representatives of a number of organizations and societies with content expertise. The list of endorsing and supporting organizations is presented in the introduction to the 2014 updates.
FREEDOM UNDER AN INDIFFERENT DICTATOR: INTENTIONALITY AND RESPONSIBILITY
Authors: Hindriks Frank
Published: April 2016

Freedom is often analysed in terms of the absence of intentionally imposed constraints. I defend the alternative view on which the relevant constraints are those for which some agent can be held morally responsible. I argue that this best captures the relation between freedom and respect. Berlin (1969) correctly points out that intentional restrictions exhibit ill will and hence are disrespectful. However, the same holds, I argue, for restrictions that are due to indifference. Berlin also observed that it would be counterintuitive if an agent could increase her freedom by changing her preferences. I criticize the argument that Dowding and Van Hees (2007, 2008) present according to which this observation counts in favour of explicating freedom in terms of intentionality.
IX.—Harmonic Riemannian Spaces
Authors: Copson E. T. , Ruse H. S.
Published: April 2016

In this paper we consider a new class of Riemannian spaces which arise in the theory of the solution of the tensor generalisation of Laplace's equation ∇2V = o. To obtain this generalisation Beltrami's second differential parameter is defined in terms of the metric

of the associated n-dimensional Riemannian space by the usual formulæ

where denotes the Christoffel symbol . The generalised Laplace's equation is then Δ2V = o. For simplicity the quadratic differential form (1.1) is taken to be positive definite, which involves no essential loss of generality.
Orofacial dyskinesia: caused by antidepressants?
Authors: Gool A.R. Van , Mast R.C. Van Der , Moleman P.
Published: April 2016

A case report is presented of a 72 year old woman, who has been treated for a depression with amitriptyline. During the treatment an orofacial dyskinesia develloped. Data in the literature concerning a possible link between the manifestation of orofacial dyskinesia and treatment with antidepressants were mainly found to be case reports. A closer study of the total in all of 25 case reports reveals that the antidepressant is often at most one of more possible determinants of the movement disorder. Particularly, it was frequently noted that patients were treated with other drugs or that the use of other drugs was not specified. A controverse exists in the literature whether or not a so called spontaneous orofacial dyskinesia is found in high frequency in elderly people. For clinical practice the advice is given that, in case an orofacial dyskinesia arises during antidepressant treatment, attention should be paid to other provoking factors in the first place.
Impact of an influenza vaccine educational programme on healthcare personnel
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ-FERNÁNDEZ R. , MARTÍNEZ-LÓPEZ A. B. , PÉREZ-MORENO J. , GONZÁLEZ-SÁNCHEZ M. I. , GONZÁLEZ-MARTÍNEZ F. , HERNÁNDEZ-SAMPELAYO T. , MEJIAS A.
Published: April 2016

Influenza vaccination has been shown to be the most effective preventive strategy to reduce influenza-related morbidity and mortality in high-risk groups. Despite healthcare personnel (HCP) being considered part of such high-risk groups, their vaccination coverage is low in Europe. In January 2012, we distributed an 18-question survey regarding influenza vaccination to HCP at Gregorio Marañon Paediatric Hospital, in Madrid, Spain. After we documented that only ~30% of HCP were vaccinated an educational programme was implemented in October 2012 before the next influenza season. In January 2013, the same survey delivered again to all HCP documented a significant increase in vaccination rates (from 30% to 40%, P = 0·007) mainly among physicians and for patients' protection. In summary we found that a simple and inexpensive educational programme significantly improved the uptake of influenza vaccination in HCP in our centre. Nevertheless, vaccination rates remained low, and broader and updated campaigns are needed to overcome perception barriers.
A Bound on the Number of Edges in Graphs Without an Even Cycle
Authors: BUKH BORIS , JIANG ZILIN
Published: April 2016

We show that, for each fixed k, an n-vertex graph not containing a cycle of length 2k has at most $80\sqrt{k\log k}\cdot n^{1+1/k}+O(n)$ edges.
Changing Pattern of Pediatric Maxillofacial Injuries at the Accident and Emergency Department of the University Teaching Hospital, Ibadan–A Four-Year Experience
Authors: Okoje Victoria N. , Alonge Temitope O. , Oluteye Olufemi A. , Denloye Obafunke O.
Published: April 2016

Introduction:

Maxillofacial injuries are common among polytraumatized patients, and in Nigeria, the incidence seems to be on the increase. This probably is related to the drive of industrialization and the increase in the number of road traffic accidents. Delays in attending to severe maxillofacial injuries can be grave because of concomitant injuries that can be life threatening.

Methods:

This is a prospective review of maxillofacial injuries in patients ≤16 years of age who were seen at the Accident and Emergency Department between October 2002 and December 2006. In all the patients, the accident and emergency physicians carried out initial resuscitation, and thereafter, they were referred to the maxillofacial unit on call.

Results:

A total of 611 patients with maxillofacial injuries were seen during the study period and of this, 134 (22%) were ≤16 years old. The male:female ratio was 1.1:1.0. Road traffic accident (RTA) was the most common etiological factor in 73 (54.5%) cases, while gunshot injuries accounted for 6 (4.4%) cases. Soft tissue lacerations were the most common maxillofacial injuries occurring in 90 (55.9%) cases; mandibular fractures were the most common bony injury in 17 (13.4%).

Conclusions:

The upsurge in maxillofacial gunshot injuries in the pediatric age group is alarming and this may be a reflection of the global changes (westernization and drug-related offenses like armed robberies) and the harsh economic conditions in this community.
Internally Displaced Persons
Authors: Leus Xavier , Wallace Jane , Loretti Alessandro
Published: April 2016

There were estimated to be over 20 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the end of 1999, a number that surpasses global estimates of refugees. Displacement exposes IDPs to new hazards and accrued vulnerability. These dynamics result in greater risk for the development of illness and death. Often, access of IDPs to health care and humanitarian assistance is excluded deliberately by conflicting parties. Furthermore, the arrival of IDPs into another community or region strains local health systems, and the host population ends up sharing the sufferings of the internally displaced. Health outcomes are dismaying.

From a health perspective, the best option is to avoid human displacement. WHO contributes to the prevention of displacement by working for sustainable development. Placing health high on the political agenda helps maintain stability, and thereby, reduce the likelihood for displacement.

Primary responsibility for assisting IDPs, irrespective of the cause, rests with the national government. However, where the government is unwilling or unable to provide the necessary aid, the international humanitarian community must step in, with WHO playing a major role in the health sector.

There is consensus among the partners of the World Health Organization (WHO) that, in emergencies, the WHO must: 1) take the lead in rapid health assessment, epidemiological and nutritional surveillance, epidemic preparedness, essential drugs management, control of communicable diseases, and physical and psychosocial rehabilitation; and 2) provide guidelines and advice on nutritional requirements and rehabilitation, immunisation, medical relief items, and reproductive health.

If the vital health needs of IDPs—security, food, water, shelter, sanitation and household items—are not satisfied, the provision of health services alone cannot save lives. Community participation is essential, and community participation implies bolstering the assets and capacities of the beneficiaries.
Consolidating Rural School Districts: Potential Savings and Effects on Student Achievement
Authors: Jacques Charles , Brorsen B. Wade , Richter Francisca G. C.
Published: April 2016

One frequently proposed policy is to consolidate rural school districts in order to save money by obtaining economies of size. The effects of school district size on both expenditures and standardized test scores are estimated for Oklahoma. Results indicate that economies of scale with respect to expenditures per student exist up to an average daily membership (ADM) of 965 students, but that as school districts become larger, tests scores decline. Even if savings in school district administration from consolidation are spent on instruction, state average test scores would decrease slightly. Thus, school district consolidation can reduce costs, but it will also reduce student learning.
Effectiveness of Integrated Pest Management Dissemination Techniques: A Case Study of Potato Farmers in Carchi, Ecuador
Authors: Mauceri Maria , Alwang Jeffrey , Norton George , Barrera Victor
Published: April 2016

Potato farmers in Ecuador rely on chemical inputs to manage pests and optimize yields. Integrated pest management techniques lower production costs, reduce pesticide exposure, and improve long-term agricultural sustainability. Public extension does not, however, exist in Ecuador, and cost-effective means of communicating complex messages to producers are needed. We analyze cost-effectiveness of alternative dissemination methods, including farmer field schools (FFS), field days, pamphlets, and word-of-mouth transmission. Field days and pamphlets have strong impacts on adoption, especially considering their low costs. FFS are effective, but expensive. Evidence also indicates significant diffusion from FFS to non-FFS farmers, indicating high complementarity across methods.
The delivery of health improvement information during radiotherapy treatment: a survey of UK therapy radiographers
Authors: Pattinson Laura , Jessop Anne
Published: April 2016

Introduction

The burden of lifestyle-associated disease is increasing with a preventative approach to health becoming more of a focus. Within the oncology setting, the importance of supporting patients with positive lifestyle changes post treatment is included within the recently developed recovery package and the contribution of therapeutic radiographers will be significant in the implementation of this.

Method

A 23-question survey tool was distributed via the online platform Survey Monkey. The questionnaire was promoted online through the Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR). All members of the SCoR had access to the questionnaire to allow for assessment of health improvement provision nationally. Quantitative and qualitative data were acquired and analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences, descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Results

Therapy radiographers recognise importance of health promotion. Highest levels of provision were observed with smoking cessation and lowest levels of provision observed on the topic of exercise. Key barriers identified were staff responsibility and lack of knowledge and training of therapy radiographers.

Discussion

Health improvement is part of the role of the therapy radiographer and is delivered within UK radiotherapy departments; however, there is scope to increase delivery with the identification and overcoming of barriers to provision.
Drain current transient and low-frequency dispersion characterizations in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs
Authors: Benvegnù Agostino , Bisi Davide , Laurent Sylvain , Meneghini Matteo , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Barataud Denis , Zanoni Enrico , Quere Raymond
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a detailed trap investigation based on combined pulsed I/V measurements, drain current transient (DCT) measurements and low-frequency dispersion measurements of transconductance (LF Y21) and output conductance (LF Y22). DCT characterization is carried out over a 7-decade time scale. LF Y21and Y22measurements are carried out over the frequency range from 100 Hz to 1 GHz. These combined measurements were performed at several temperatures for AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors under class AB bias condition and allowed the extraction of the activation energy (Ea) and the capture cross section (σc) of the identified traps. Extensive measurements of these characteristics as a function of device bias are reported in this work to understand the dynamic trap behavior. This paper demonstrated a correlation between LF small-signal (LF Y21and Y22) and large-signal voltage steps (DCT) results. These measurements allow identifying the same 0.64 eV deep level, attributed to a native defect of GaN, possibly located in the buffer layer.
Substrate-integrated waveguide filters based on mushroom-shaped resonators
Authors: Tomassoni Cristiano , Silvestri Lorenzo , Bozzi Maurizio , Perregrini Luca
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a new class of quasi-elliptic pass-band filters in substrate-integrated waveguide technology, which exhibits compact size and modular geometry. These filters are based on mushroom-shaped metallic resonators, and they can be easily implemented using a standard dual-layer printed circuit board manufacturing process. The presented filters exploit non-resonating modes to obtain coupling between non-adjacent nodes in the case of in-line geometry. The resulting structure is very compact and capable of transmission zeros. In this work, the singlet configuration is preliminarily investigated, and a parametric study is performed. The design of three-pole, four-pole, and higher-order filters is illustrated with examples and thoroughly discussed. A four-pole filter operating at the frequency of 4 GHz has been manufactured and experimentally verified, to validate the proposed technique.
Loneliness of Homosexual Male Students: Parental Bonding Attitude as a Moderating Factor
Authors: Chen I-Chieh
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this paper was to examine the relationships of homosexual male students at the senior high school level and their loneliness using parental bonding attitude as a moderating factor. An amount of 127 homosexual male senior high school students in Taiwan is studied. The Pearson correlation analysis and the hierarchical regression analysis are adapted to examine two proposed hypotheses. Based on the results, homosexual male senior high school students in both hyper-masculine and feminine gender roles are found to feel loneliness, but levels of loneliness of those who possess hyper-masculine gender role are relatively lower than those in a feminine role. In addition, the levels of loneliness of homosexual male senior high school students could be negatively affected by parental bonding attitudes (Care). Recommendations and suggestions for parents as well as teachers of homosexual senior high school male students and future studies are underscored at the end of this article.
How Do Climate Variations Affect the Width of the Tropics?
Authors: Davis Sean , Birner Thomas , Seidel Dian
Published: April 2016

The Width of the Tropics: Climate Variations and Their Impacts; Santa Fe, New Mexico, 27–31 July 2015
U.S.-Cuba Scientific Cooperation Revs Up
Authors: Kollipara Puneet
Published: April 2016

The administration has sought to promote scientific collaboration with Cuba by reducing restrictions on travel and equipment donations and forging research partnerships.
Eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow is promoted by protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2
Authors: Xia L-x , Hua W , Jin Y , Tian B-p , Qiu Z-w , Zhang C , Che L-q , Zhou H-b , Wu Y-f , Huang H-q , Lan F , Ke Y-h , Lee J J , Li W , Ying S-m , Chen Z-h , Shen H-h
Published: April 2016

SHP2 participates in multiple signaling events by mediating T-cell development and function, and regulates cytokine-dependent granulopoiesis. To explore whether and how SHP2 can regulate bone-marrow eosinophil differentiation, we investigate the contribution of SHP2 in the bone-marrow eosinophil development in allergic mice. Blockade of SHP2 function by SHP2 inhibitor PHPS-1 or conditional shp2 knockdown by adenovirus-inhibited bone-marrow-derived eosinophil differentiationin vitro, with no detectable effects on the apoptosis of eosinophils. Furthermore, SHP2 induced eosinophil differentiation via regulation of the extracellular signal-regulated kinase pathway. Myeloid shp2 conditional knockout mice (LysMcreshp2flox/flox) failed to induce eosinophilia as well as airway hyper-responsiveness. The SHP2 inhibitor PHPS-1 also alleviated eosinophilic airway inflammation and airway hyper-responsiveness, accompanied by significantly reduced levels of systemic eosinophils and eosinophil lineage-committed progenitors in allergic mice. We demonstrate that inhibition of eosinophil development is SHP2-dependent and SHP2 is sufficient to promote eosinophil formationin vivo. Our data reveal SHP2 as a critical regulator of eosinophil differentiation, and inhibition of SHP2 specifically in myeloid cells alleviates allergic airway inflammation.
Eiger-induced cell death relies on Rac1-dependent endocytosis
Authors: Ruan W , Srinivasan A , Lin S , Kara k-I , Barker P A
Published: April 2016

Signaling via tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) superfamily members regulates cellular life and death decisions. A subset of mammalian TNFR proteins, most notably the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), induces cell death through a pathway that requires activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNKs). However the receptor-proximal signaling events that mediate this remain unclear. Drosophila express a single tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand termed Eiger (Egr) that activates JNK-dependent cell death. We have exploited this model to identify phylogenetically conserved signaling events that allow Egr to induce JNK activation and cell death in vivo. Here we report that Rac1, a small GTPase, is specifically required in Egr-mediated cell death. rac1 loss of function blocks Egr-induced cell death, whereas Rac1 overexpression enhances Egr-induced killing. We identify Vav as a GEF for Rac1 in this pathway and demonstrate that dLRRK functions as a negative regulator of Rac1 that normally acts to constrain Egr-induced death. Thus dLRRK loss of function increases Egr-induced cell death in the fly. We further show that Rac1-dependent entry of Egr into early endosomes is a crucial prerequisite for JNK activation and for cell death and show that this entry requires the activity of Rab21 and Rab7. These findings reveal novel regulatory mechanisms that allow Rac1 to contribute to Egr-induced JNK activation and cell death.
3D replicon distributions arise from stochastic initiation and domino-like DNA replication progression
Authors: Löb D. , Lengert N. , Chagin V. O. , Reinhart M. , Casas-Delucchi C. S. , Cardoso M. C. , Drossel B.
Published: April 2016

DNA replication dynamics in cells from higher eukaryotes follows very complex but highly efficient mechanisms. However, the principles behind initiation of potential replication origins and emergence of typical patterns of nuclear replication sites remain unclear. Here, we propose a comprehensive model of DNA replication in human cells that is based on stochastic, proximity-induced replication initiation. Critical model features are: spontaneous stochastic firing of individual origins in euchromatin and facultative heterochromatin, inhibition of firing at distances below the size of chromatin loops and a domino-like effect by which replication forks induce firing of nearby origins. The model reproduces the empirical temporal and chromatin-related properties of DNA replication in human cells. We advance the one-dimensional DNA replication model to a spatial model by taking into account chromatin folding in the nucleus, and we are able to reproduce the spatial and temporal characteristics of the replication foci distribution throughout S-phase.
Omnivory in birds is a macroevolutionary sink
Authors: Burin Gustavo , Kissling W. Daniel , Guimarães Paulo R. , Şekercioğlu Çağan H. , Quental Tiago B.
Published: April 2016

Diet is commonly assumed to affect the evolution of species, but few studies have directly tested its effect at macroevolutionary scales. Here we use Bayesian models of trait-dependent diversification and a comprehensive dietary database of all birds worldwide to assess speciation and extinction dynamics of avian dietary guilds (carnivores, frugivores, granivores, herbivores, insectivores, nectarivores, omnivores and piscivores). Our results suggest that omnivory is associated with higher extinction rates and lower speciation rates than other guilds, and that overall net diversification is negative. Trait-dependent models, dietary similarity and network analyses show that transitions into omnivory occur at higher rates than into any other guild. We suggest that omnivory acts as macroevolutionary sink, where its ephemeral nature is retrieved through transitions from other guilds rather than from omnivore speciation. We propose that these dynamics result from competition within and among dietary guilds, influenced by the deep-time availability and predictability of food resources.
A systematic analysis of the role of GGDEF-EAL domain proteins in virulence and motility in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola
Authors: Wei Chao , Jiang Wendi , Zhao Mengran , Ling Junjie , Zeng Xin , Deng Jun , Jin Dongli , Dow John Maxwell , Sun Wenxian
Published: April 2016

The second messenger c-di-GMP is implicated in regulation of various aspects of the lifestyles and virulence of Gram-negative bacteria. Cyclic di-GMP is formed by diguanylate cyclases with a GGDEF domain and degraded by phosphodiesterases with either an EAL or HD-GYP domain. Proteins with tandem GGDEF-EAL domains occur in many bacteria, where they may be involved in c-di-GMP turnover or act as enzymatically-inactive c-di-GMP effectors. Here, we report a systematic study of the regulatory action of the eleven GGDEF-EAL proteins in Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola, an important rice pathogen causing bacterial leaf streak. Mutational analysis revealed that XOC_2335 and XOC_2393 positively regulate bacterial swimming motility, while XOC_2102, XOC_2393 and XOC_4190 negatively control sliding motility. The ΔXOC_2335/XOC_2393 mutant that had a higher intracellular c-di-GMP level than the wild type and the ΔXOC_4190 mutant exhibited reduced virulence to rice after pressure inoculation. In vitro purified XOC_4190 and XOC_2102 have little or no diguanylate cyclase or phosphodiesterase activity, which is consistent with unaltered c-di-GMP concentration in ΔXOC_4190. Nevertheless, both proteins can bind to c-di-GMP with high affinity, indicating a potential role as c-di-GMP effectors. Overall our findings advance understanding of c-di-GMP signaling and its links to virulence in an important rice pathogen.