bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality suffers with lack of funds
Authors: Louise  , Lederman Noam
Published: July 2017

Louise and Noam Lederman state that the continued lack of resources and funding made available by the current government will have serious implications for, and will harm, early years and primary education.
Commitments must be upheld
Authors: Lawson Deborah
Published: July 2017

Once again, we are in a time of change, with new ministers tackling a backlog of policy decisions that either need urgent amendment or have yet to be implemented. While the funding issue also remains.
Castles of the imagination
Authors: Chapman Ailsa
Published: July 2017

We resume our series of articles that look at the possibilities for play and learning inherent in certain popular and common early years resources and materials – this month, we look at small world scenarios.
This is more than half-full
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: July 2017

The sixth in a series that is exploring practical activities for introducing mathematical learning and language using everyday resources and junk materials – this month, we explore using bottles.
Coins are a rich resource
Authors: Chalmers Debbie
Published: July 2017

Children know that money is important to adults and love to handle it. Both paper and coin-based currency can be wonderful resources, providing many rich and varied opportunities for both play and learning.
Water boosts the brain
Authors: Clarke Jenni
Published: July 2017

Jenni Clarke explores ways to promote healthy habits in the early years. This month's article looks at practical ways you can encourage young children to hydrate with regular and appropriate drinks.
Getting ready to go out
Authors: Hammond Paula
Published: July 2017

We continue our series focusing on Personal, social, and emotional development with activities designed to get children into the habit of self-analysis – this month, how to get dressed and what things to wear.
Nutrition to start the day
Authors: Revel Edwina , Leach Georgia
Published: July 2017

Breakfast is a great opportunity to provide children with essential energy and nutrients that their bodies need to help them function effectively; a good start to the morning benefits learning and development.
Never say die: death euphemisms, misunderstandings and their implications for practice
Authors: Rawlings Deborah , Tieman Jennifer J , Sanderson Christine , Parker Deborah , Miller-Lewis Lauren
Published: July 2017

Background:

A Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on death and dying was conducted to open the dialogue around death and dying. In one activity, participants were asked to engage with language and to think of alternative words (or euphemisms) that are used to describe death.

Aim:

To reflect from a nursing perspective how language enables and sometimes disguises important messages and conversations.

Methods:

Four hundred and seventy one participants provided 3053 euphemisms.

Findings:

Euphemisms were varied, with many providing commentary on their purpose and use.

Discussion:

As a society we have become quite creative in the use of euphemisms, but need to be mindful of misunderstandings and misinterpretations which can cause embarrassment and distress in clinical situations.

Conclusion:

This paper describes some of the euphemisms that were provided, examining why they are used and how their use can be easily misconstrued in daily life and in clinical practice.
Experiences of patient-family caregiver dyads in palliative care during hospital-to-home transition process
Authors: Rocío López , Rojas Edier Arias , González Mabel Carrillo , Carreño Sonia , Diana Cárdenas , Gómez Olga
Published: July 2017

Background:

there are many people with advanced cancer who are cared for in the community, though little is known about patients' and family members' lived experiences during discharge from hospital to home.

Objectives:

to describe the experiences of the patient-family caregiver dyad during the transition from hospital to home at a National Cancer Institute in Colombia.

Methods:

a descriptive phenomenological approach was taken for this study.

Results:

Forty-one nominal codes emerged, comprising seven themes that describe the experience of the individual in palliative care and their family caregiver during the transition from hospital to home care.

Conclusions:

the patient-family caregiver dyad have to deal with symptoms while being confronted with the prognosis and progression of the disease at home. The economic costs in acquiring supplies needed for proper care provision are considerable. In addition there are administrative fees from consultations and accessing the health services. Emotional and spiritual support for the dyad is required.
Palliative care and nursing support for patients experiencing dyspnoea
Authors: Sugimura Ayumi , Ando Shoko , Tamakoshi Koji
Published: July 2017

To investigate the association between the type of support provided by nurses for dyspnoea and palliative care practice in Japan, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted in 2015. Of the 535 questionnaires sent to nurses working at 22 designated cancer hospitals, 344 were returned. The questionnaire assessed the demographic characteristics of the nurses, nursing support for dyspnoea, and palliative care practice measured by the ‘Palliative care self-reported practices scale’. Multivariate analysis showed that the domains of palliative care practice influenced the provision of nursing support for patients with dyspnoea. In conclusion, palliative care practice is important for supporting patients with dyspnoea, and nurses should possess the requisite knowledge and skills to deliver this care appropriately.
Politics and palliative care: Burkina Faso
Authors: Smyth Dion
Published: July 2017

Dion Smyth's review of palliative nursing on the internet
Does orthopaedic surgery improve quality of life and function in patients with mucopolysaccharidoses?
Authors: Williams N. , Challoumas D. , Eastwood D. M.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare lysosomal storage disorders associated with involvement of multiple organs along with a generalised skeletal dysplasia. Both haematopoetic stem cell transplant and enzyme replacement therapy have improved the outlook for patients while surgery remains high-risk and there is little information on clinical or functional outcome to justify many of the surgical procedures performed. This paper aims to summarise the orthopaedic surgical procedures in MPS patients for which quality of life (QoL) and functional data are available and to describe additional QoL and functional measurement tools of relevance to the assessment of orthopaedic outcomes in MPS.

Methods

We reviewed the available literature to look for reported outcomes of orthopaedic surgery to lower and upper limbs and the spine. In addition, we describe the general and MPS-specific health measures that might be of relevance to the orthopaedic surgeon.

Results

There is some evidence in the literature that orthopaedic surgery may improve QoL and function in some specific aspects of the MPS condition (in relation to genu valgum, carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger digits); however, the literature is sparse and consists of level 4/5 studies only. Further studies of these conditions should include QoL and functional assessment in order to confirm or refute these reports. In other areas (spine and hip), outcomes are judged largely on radiographic appearances with little clinical correlation and short follow-up; however, one long-term study of function following hip dysplasia surgery suggests poor outcomes. Anaesthetic morbidity/mortality is not insignificant in these complex patients with multi-organ involvement. Careful assessment is required, particularly when there is neurological involvement.

Conclusions

Orthopaedic surgeons involved with MPS patients should be encouraged to use and report measures of QoL and function with respect to musculoskeletal manifestations and response to surgery, recognising that such assessments in these complex and challenging patients may require a multidisciplinary approach.
Vertical Integration Smooths Innovation Diffusion
Authors: Filippini Luigi , Vergari Cecilia
Published: July 2017

Does vertical integration of an input innovator with a downstream firm entail innovation foreclosure? We study the licensing incentives of an independent input producer owning a patented product innovation which allows the downstream firms to improve the quality of their final goods. We consider two-part tariff contracts for both outside and incumbent innovators. We find that the incumbent innovator has always the incentive to license its innovation to the rival firm so that under vertical integration complete technology diffusion takes place. In contrast, the external patent holder may prefer exclusive licensing depending on the innovation size as well as on the set of allowed contracts. As a result vertical integration does not entail innovation foreclosure, rather it facilitates innovation diffusion with respect to vertical separation. As for the profitability, the vertical integration with either downstream firm is always privately profitable and it is welfare improving for large innovations: this implies that not all profitable mergers should be rejected.
Stochastic Logistic Model of the Global Financial Leverage
Authors: Smirnov Alexander D.
Published: July 2017

Debt, as one of basic human relations, has profound effects on economic growth. Debt accumulation in the global economy was modeled by the stochastic logistic equation reflecting causality between leverage and its rate of change. The model, identifying interactions and feedbacks in aggregate behaviour of creditors and borrowers, addressed various issues of macrofinancial stability. Qualitatively diverse patterns, including the Wicksellian (normal) market, the Minsky financial bubbles and the Fisherian debt-deflation, were discerned by appropriate combinations of rates of return, spreads and leverage. The Kolmogorov-Fokker-Plank equation was used to find out the stationary gamma distribution of leverage that was instrumental for the evaluation of appropriate failure and survival functions. Two patterns corresponding to different forms of a stationary gamma distribution were recognized in the long run leverage dynamics and were simulated as scenarios of a possible system evolution. In particular, empirically parameterized asymptotical distribution indicated excessive leverage and unsustainable global debt accumulation. It underlined the necessity of comprehensive reforms aiming to decrease uncertainty, debt and leverage. Assuming these reforms were successfully implemented, global leverage distributions would have converged in the long run to a peaked gamma distribution with the mode identical to the anchor leverage. The latter corresponded to a balanced long run debt demand and supply, hence to fairly evaluated financial assets fully collateralized by real resources. A particular case of macrofinancial Tobin’s q-coefficients following the Ornstein-Ulenbeck process was studied to evaluate a reasonable range of squeezing the bloated world finance. The model was verified on data published by the IMF in Global Financial Stability Reports for the period 2003–2013.
Uncovering the Behavioral Implications of the Rational Addiction Assertion
Authors: Caputo Michael R
Published: July 2017

The consumption functions in Becker and Murphy's (1988) rational addiction theory are subjected to an extensive comparative dynamics analysis. They are shown to be intrinsically characterized by a symmetric and positive semidefinite matrix of generalized Slutsky-like terms. In contrast, the typical comparative dynamics expressions, comprised of the individual partial derivatives of the consumption functions with respect to the parameters and state variables, do not possess refutable implications under the basic assumptions of the theory. Only with additional sufficiently strong assumptions, of which some are identified here, can they be signed.
Gracilaria coppejansii sp. nov. (Gracilariales, Rhodophyta), a new flattened species from the Andaman coast of southern Thailand
Authors: Muangmai Narongrit , Lewmanomont Khanjanapaj , Prathep Anchana , Terada Ryuta , Zuccarello Giuseppe C.
Published: July 2017

Studies of the taxonomy and diversity of flattened
Integrated Palm Biomass Supply Chain toward Sustainable Management
Authors: How B S , Lam H L
Published: July 2017

Sustainable biomass supply chain management (SBSCM) problem is a multi-objective optimisation (MOO) problem since the objectives of each sustainability dimension and (or) each components under a same sustainability dimension can be conflicting. It is unlikely to have a single solution that could simultaneously satisfy all objectives. Therefore, achieving optimum for one objective requires compromise of other objectives. Several approaches have been developed to solve MOO problems. The simplest way reported from the academicians is to transform MOO problem into single objective optimisation (SOO) problem by converting all objectives into a similar form of objectives. However, converting environmental impacts into economic form might produce sub-optimal solution as the optimal result is highly dependent on the magnitude of the penalty cost. This paper presents a systematic approach which integrates both economic and environmental concerns in the supply chain by using the concept of analytic hierarchy process (AHP). Instead of merely focusing on carbon emission, this paper incorporates other environmental indicators as well, i. e., global warming potential (GWP), ozone depletion potential (ODP), acidification potential (AP), photochemical ozone creation potential (POCP), nutrification potential (NP), aquatic toxicity potential (ATP), terrestrial toxicity potential (TTP), abiotic depletion potential (ADP), water footprint and land footprint. On top of that, this paper also proposes a graphical illustration method to present the sustainability performance of the results. Both economic sustainability and environmental sustainability are expressed in a vector form. With the aid of this graphical representation, the tendency of the process towards each sustainability dimension can be clearly seen. A case study in Johor state is used to demonstrate the proposed method and a palm biomass supply chain with high sustainability performance (

λ

S
C
M

${\lambda ^{SCM}}$

= 0.8437) is synthesised in this paper.
Using Electrospun Scaffolds to Promote Macrophage Phenotypic Modulation and Support Wound Healing
Authors: Hixon Katherine R. , Dunn Andrew J. , Flores Reynaldo , Minden-Birkenmaier Benjamin A. , Kalaf Emily A. Growney , Shornick Laurie P. , Sell Scott A.
Published: July 2017

The development of pressure ulcers in spinal cord injury patients is extremely common, often requiring extensive surgical procedures. Macrophages (MACs) play a crucial role in the innate immune system, contributing to wound healing and overall regeneration. MACs have been found to possess the potential to be activated by external factors from their M0 inactive state to an M1 proinflammatory or M2 regenerative state. This study conducted a comprehensive evaluation of MAC phenotype in response to electrospun scaffolds of varying material fiber/pore diameter, fiber stiffness, and +/− inclusion of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Generally, itwas found that the addition of PRP resulted in decreased pore size, where 5 silk fibroin (SF) had the stiffest fibers. Furthermore, PRP scaffolds demonstrated an increased production of VEGF and chemotaxis. The polycaprolactone (PCL) and SF scaffolds had the largest cell infiltration and proliferation. Overall, it was found that 5% SF had both ideal fiber and pore structure, allowing for cell infiltration further enhanced by the presence of PRP. Additionally, this scaffold led to a reasonable production of VEGF while still allowing fibroblast proliferation to occur. These results suggest that such a scaffold could provide an off-the-shelf product capable of modifying the local MAC response.
Small Donor Empowerment Depends on the Details: Comparing Matching Fund Programs in New York and Los Angeles
Authors: Malbin Michael J. , Parrott Michael
Published: July 2017

Political campaigns have long been financed by people with well above average incomes, but the balance has tilted dramatically since the Supreme Court’s 2010 decision in Citizens United v. FEC. A number of jurisdictions have been looking to rebalance the incentives through new (or updated) public financing programs. Much of the discussion about their potential effects, however, has been sweepingly generic. But we know that these programs do differ from each other and have good reason to expect that “success” or “failure” will depend both on their goals and the programs’ details. This article focuses on one type of program that has become a model in recent years. Until recently New York City was the only jurisdiction with a multiple matching system explicitly designed to increase the role of small donors.Previous studies noted apparent successes, but it has been difficult to feel comfortable with only one jurisdiction to test. After Los Angeles revised its system in 2013, serious comparisons became possible. This article finds that New York City’s campaign finance matching fund program increased the number, proportional role, and diversity of small donors in city council elections but that the Los Angeles program was substantially less effective. The findings were confirmed through a difference-in-differences procedure that tested each city council over time against state legislative districts representing the same geographical space. A series of explanations relating to the programs’ details were tested, leading us to conclude that the policy details were affecting the results. The results were also different in both cities for mayoral and city council candidates. This suggests alterations may be needed if one were to consider the model for offices with larger constituencies, such as Governor or the US Congress. Finally, the article concludes with a discussion of major arguments for and against increasing small donor participation as a goal for public policy.
Postdiluvian? The Effects of Outside Group Spending on Senate Elections After Citizens United and Speechnow.org v. FEC
Authors: Chaturvedi Neilan S. , Holloway Coleen
Published: July 2017

In 2010, the Supreme Court’s decision on Citizens United v. FEC, fueled public outcry about the growth of the cost of the political campaign and the influx of outside money in the form of independent expenditures. President Barack Obama seemed to agree with this speculation calling independent expenditures, “dark money” that “pulls our politics into the gutter” [Obama, Barack. 2015. “The Citizens United Decision was Wrong.” (Press Release). Retrieved from https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/01/21/statement-president.]. Indeed, signs pointing to the increase in the cost of campaigns are correct, as 2014 saw the most expensive congressional elections in history. In this paper, we examine the effects of outside group spending on Senate races in 2010, 2012, and 2014. We find that outside group spending does play a significant, though small role in determining the vote share of a candidate. We also find that outside group spending in support of a candidate is generally more effective than outside group spending against a candidate, especially for the incumbent. Still, outside group expenditures pale in comparison to campaign expenditures for the challenger in terms of overall effect.
Cooperative Media Spending in Senate Campaigns Post-Citizens United
Authors: Miller Kenneth M.
Published: July 2017

Outside groups now represent a major voice in US Senate campaigns, but it remains unclear to what degree outside groups are independent actors or are simply performing the same role once filled almost entirely by the parties. This article investigates whether independent groups distribute media expenditures in ways that mirror the objectives of parties, or if divergent interests cause independent groups to allocate these funds differently. Using a large original dataset of media spending in Senate campaigns from 2010 through 2014, this study specifies how a seat-maximizing strategy will go beyond simply directing money to the most competitive contests; that within similarly competitive races outside groups spend more on media when the candidates spend less. The observed pattern of outside group resource allocation reveals that outside group activity in the aggregate is consistent with the seat-maximizing strategy expected from parties, but one subgroup of outsiders, issue-based independent groups, are less sensitive to these considerations.
The Rhetorical Psychology of Trumpism: Threat, Absolutism, and the Absolutist Threat
Authors: Marietta Morgan , Farley Tyler , Cote Tyler , Murphy Paul
Published: July 2017

Conventional wisdom suggests that Donald Trump’s rhetoric – aggressive, insulting, often offensive – would be counterproductive to electoral success. We argue that Trump’s surprising victories in both the primary and general campaigns were partly due to the positive effects of his appeals grounded in the intersection of threat and absolutism. The content of Trump’s rhetoric focused on threats to personal safety (terrorism), personal status (economic decline), and group status (immigration). The style of Trump’s rhetoric was absolutist, emphasizing non-negotiable boundaries and moral outrage at their violation. Previous research has shown perceived threat to motivate political participation and absolutist rhetoric to bolster impressions of positive character traits. Trump employed these two rhetorical psychologies simultaneously, melding threat and absolutism into the absolutist threat as an effective rhetorical strategy. Analysis of Trump’s debate language and Twitter rhetoric, as well as original data from political elites at the Republican National Convention and ordinary voters at rallies in New Hampshire confirm the unconventional efficacy of Trump’s rhetorical approach.
Health Reform in the Trump Era: Will Politics Unmake Policy?
Authors: Kelly Andrew S.
Published: July 2017

Donald J. Trump’s unexpected victory in the 2016 presidential election cast a long shadow over the American welfare state. With continued Republican control of the House and Senate, Trump’s occupancy of the Oval Office removed a critical constraint on Republican efforts to dismantle key Democratic social policy achievements—both old and new. Despite the absence of these important institutional veto-points, the policies that were first identified and targeted by Republicans during the Trump era have proved to be more robust than many observers and policymakers initially believed. By applying the theoretical insights and methodological tools of American Political Development, this article explores how long-running policy processes have altered the political landscape in often underappreciated ways to narrow the prospects for large-scale policy reform. More specifically, this article examines the political dynamics of Medicare and the Affordable Care Act in the early days of the Trump administration. The pressures exerted on both programs by an unpredictable president and unified Republican control of Congress provides a unique opportunity to differentiate between and assess the prospects for policy sustainability and policy stability.
The Anti-Analytic Presidency Revisited
Authors: Rocco Philip
Published: July 2017

In his first months as president, Donald Trump has demonstrated an unprecedented aversion to expert-oriented decision making. This essay examines how Trump’s presidency exposes tensions in what Skowronek and Orren (2016) refer to as the “policy state”, especially within institutions that produce expert analyses of presidential action. While an absence of policy expertise has hampered Trump’s agenda, his administration has also taken steps to discredit unfavorable analyses, subvert rules requiring the use of objective analysis, and construct new institutions to promote ‘alternative facts’. By deepening public division and distrust, such activities may restructure the political environment in which the Trump presidency itself is judged.
Repurposing the Administrative State
Authors: Callen Zachary
Published: July 2017

In this essay, President Donald Trump’s policies are evaluated in terms of their impact on American federalism. Rather than producing an era of significant devolution, the paper argues that the Trump administration will primarily result in very typical policy changes to American federalism. In particular, the Trump administration will redirect state resources away from policy areas that undercut Trump’s political agenda while placing more support behind programs that advance the president’s agenda. The one significant change that the Trump administration could bring about is an even greater centralization of political power in the executive, perhaps to a degree that undermines the traditional checks and balances of American federalism.
Tissue kallikrein-related peptidase 4 (KLK4), a novel biomarker in triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Yang Feng , Aubele Michaela , Walch Axel , Gross Eva , Napieralski Rudolf , Zhao Shuo , Ahmed Nancy , Kiechle Marion , Reuning Ute , Dorn Julia , Sweep Fred , Magdolen Viktor , Schmitt Manfred
Published: July 2017

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), lacking the steroid hormone receptors ER and PR and the oncoprotein HER2, is characterized by its aggressive pattern and insensitivity to endocrine and HER2-directed therapy. Human kallikrein-related peptidases KLK1-15 provide a rich source of serine protease-type biomarkers associated with tumor growth and cancer progression for a variety of malignant diseases. In this study, recombinant KLK4 protein was generated and affinity-purified KLK4-directed polyclonal antibody pAb587 established to allow localization of KLK4 protein expression in tumor cell lines and archived formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded TNBC tumor tissue specimens. For this, KLK4 protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry in primary tumor tissue sections (tissue microarrays) of 188 TNBC patients, mainly treated with anthracycline- or CMF-based polychemotherapy. KLK4 protein is localized in the cytoplasm of tumor and stroma cells. In this patient cohort, elevated stroma cell KLK4 expression, but not tumor cell KLK4 expression, is predictive for poor disease-free survival by univariate analysis (hazard ratio: 2.26,p=0.001) and multivariable analysis (hazard ratio: 2.12,p<0.01). Likewise, univariate analysis revealed a trend for statistical significance of elevated KLK4 stroma cell expression for overall survival of TNBC patients as well.
Digital communications and social media use in surgery: how to maximize communication in the digital age
Authors: Karpeh Martin S. , Bryczkowski Sarah
Published: July 2017

Communication among patients, colleagues, and staff in healthcare has changed dramatically in the last decade. Digital technology and social media sites have allowed instantaneous access to information. The potential for information technology to improve access to healthcare, enhance the quality, and lower the cost is significant. Text messaging, tweeting, chatting, and blogging are rapidly replacing e-mail as the preferred means of communication in healthcare. This review will highlight how digital technology is changing the way surgeons communicate with colleagues and patients as well as provide some guidance as to how to avoid some of the pitfalls and problems that this form of communication can bring.
On the interpretation of the indentation size effect (ISE) through gradient theory for Vickers and Berkovich indenters
Authors: Kampouris Asterios K. , Konstantinidis Avraam A.
Published: July 2017

The so-called indentation size effect (ISE) observed mainly in nanoindentation measurements with prismatic tips, is theoretically modeled in this article with the use of gradient theory. It is shown that the ISE, i.e. the dependence of the calculated hardness value on the indentation depth, is rather an artifact of the geometry of the tip used, than a phenomenon related to the material tested. The model predictions are compared with nanoindentation measurements of Al specimens.
The role of ultrasound in the prediction of birth weight discordance in twin pregnancies: are we there yet?
Authors: Neves Ana Raquel , Nunes Filipa , Branco Miguel , Almeida Maria do Céu , Santos Silva Isabel
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To analyze the accuracy of ultrasound prediction of birth weight discordance (BWD) and the influence of chorionicity and fetal growth restriction (FGR) on ultrasound performance.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 176 twin pregnancies at a Portuguese tertiary center, between 2008 and 2014. Last ultrasound biometry was recorded. Cases with delivery before 24 weeks, fetal malformations, interval between last ultrasound and deliver >3 weeks, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and monoamniotic pregnancies were excluded. The accuracy of prediction of BWD was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve (AUC).

Results:

BWD ≥20% was present in 21.6% of twin pregnancies. EBW had the best predictive performance for BWD (AUC 0.838, 95%CI 0.760–0.916), with a negative predictive value of 86.9% and a positive predictive value of 51.3%. Chorionicity did not influence ultrasound performance. None of the biometric variables analyzed was predictive of BWD in pregnancies without FGR.

Conclusion:

The accuracy of ultrasound in the prediction of BWD is limited, particularly in pregnancies without fetal growth restriction. Clinical decisions should not rely on BWD alone.
Periodic array-based substrates for surface-enhanced infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Mayerhöfer Thomas G. , Popp Jürgen
Published: July 2017

At the beginning of the 1980s, the first reports of surface-enhanced infrared spectroscopy (SEIRS) surfaced. Probably due to signal-enhancement factors of only 101to 103, which are modest compared to those of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), SEIRS did not reach the same significance up to date. However, taking the compared to Raman scattering much larger cross-sections of infrared absorptions and the enhancement factors together, SEIRS reaches about the same sensitivity for molecular species on a surface in terms of the cross-sections as SERS and, due to the complementary nature of both techniques, can valuably augment information gained by SERS. For the first 20 years since its discovery, SEIRS relied completely on metal island films, fabricated by either vapor or electrochemical deposition. The resulting films showed a strong variance concerning their structure, which was essentially random. Therefore, the increase in the corresponding signal-enhancement factors of these structures stagnated in the last years. In the very same years, however, the development of periodic array-based substrates helped SEIRS to gather momentum. This development was supported by technological progress concerning electromagnetic field solvers, which help to understand plasmonic properties and allow targeted design. In addition, the strong progress concerning modern fabrication methods allowed to implement these designs into practice. The aim of this contribution is to critically review the development of these engineered surfaces for SEIRS, to compare the different approaches with regard to their performance where possible, and report further gain of knowledge around and in relation to these structures.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[aqua-(μ
2-hexamethylenetetramine-κ
2
N:N′)-bis(2,6-difluorobenzoato-κ
2
O:O′)cadmium(II)]monohydrate, C20H22CdF4N4O6
Authors: Hou-Qun Yuan , Wen-Min Wang , Chang-Gan Huang , Wei Xiao , Guang-Ming Bao
Published: July 2017

C20H22CdF4N4O6, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 7.475(3) Å, b = 12.246(5) Å, c = 24.615(11) Å, V =2253.0(17) Å3, Z = 4, R
gt(F) = 0.0245, wR
ref(F
2) = 0.0706, T = 296(2) K.
Age-dependance of pteridines in the malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Edalat Hamideh , Akhoundi Mohammad , Basseri Hamidreza
Published: July 2017

Determining the accurate age of malaria vectors is crucial to measure the risk of malaria transmission. A group of fluorescent chemicals derived from a pyrimidine-pyrazine ring structure known as pteridines from the head, thorax and whole body of adult female Anopheles stephensi were identified and evaluated as a tool for chronological and physiological age determination of malaria vectors. The female mosquitoes were collected from an insectary colony at an interval of every 5 days, up to 30 days, and the pteridines of head, thorax and whole body were detected fluorometrically by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) using excitation and emission wavelengths of 365 and 455 nm, respectively. In addition, alteration of the pteridines compounds was compared between blood and sugar fed mosquito groups. Although four pteridines including pterin-6-carboxylic acid, biopterin, xanthopterin and isoxanthopterin were detected, some of them were absent in the head or thorax of mosquitoes. Levels of all four pteridines were similarly decreased in a linear manner throughout 30 days. No significant difference in alteration of pteridine compounds was observed between the two groups of blood or sugar fed mosquitoes. This result indicates that diet has a little effect on pteridines alteration. Age determination based on pteridines, as an age-grading technique, could be used for field collected mosquitoes, which have either sugar or blood meal. In addition, analyzing total pteridine fluorescence from only whole body could be a convenient method to estimate the age.
Avoid Drug Incompatibilities: Clinical Context in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Authors: Flamein Florence , Storme Laurent , Maiguy-Foinard Aurélie , Perez Maxime , Décaudin Bertrand , Masse Morgane , Genay Stéphanie , Odou Pascal
Published: July 2017

The administration of several intravenous products on the same catheter is a very common situation in neonatology, where the stakes are high and the dangers sometimes unknown to clinicians. A large number of factors are involved in this administration, directly related to the installation of the infusion line. Moreover, the therapeutics used are often limited, and excluding classic “Marketing Authorization”. Some of these products may prove to be incompatible and thus lose their effectiveness, or even generate particles that are likely to be administered to the patient. We must be aware of these risks in order to optimize the prescription and administration of these intravenous products, especially as we treat fragile and immature patients. The aim of this work is to review the literature on the subject for the prescribers of neonatology units.
Ethanol as an Antifungal Treatment for Silver Gelatin Prints: Implementation Methods Evaluation
Authors: Lucas Chloé , Déniel Franck , Dantigny Philippe
Published: July 2017

This study deals with mold damaged photographic gelatin disinfection methods. The goal of the study is to determine a suitable method to apply a solution of deionized water and absolute ethanol (30:70 v/v) mixture in order to obtain a biocide effect on four fungal strains: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Chaetomium globosum and Penicillium brevicompactum. Three implementations were tested: solvent chamber, direct contact and direct contact followed by a mechanical removal. Different treatment times were tested for each method. The deionized water and absolute ethanol mixture, applied for two hours in a solvent chamber, succeeded in inactivating the four tested fungal strains.
Combining Theory, Model, and Experiment to Explain How Intrinsic Theta Rhythms Are Generated in anIn VitroWhole Hippocampus Preparation without Oscillatory Inputs
Authors: Ferguson Katie A. , Chatzikalymniou Alexandra P. , Skinner Frances K.
Published: July 2017

Scientists have observed local field potential theta rhythms (3–12 Hz) in the hippocampus for decades, but understanding the mechanisms underlying their generation is complicated by their diversity in pharmacological and frequency profiles. In addition, interactions with other brain structures and oscillatory drives to the hippocampus during distinct brain states has made it difficult to identify hippocampus-specific properties directly involved in theta generation. To overcome this, we develop cellular-based network models using a whole hippocampusin vitropreparation that spontaneously generates theta rhythms. Building on theoretical and computational analyses, we find that spike frequency adaptation and postinhibitory rebound constitute a basis for theta generation in large, minimally connected CA1 pyramidal (PYR) cell network models with fast-firing parvalbumin-positive (PV+) inhibitory cells. Sparse firing of PYR cells and large excitatory currents onto PV+cells are present as in experiments. The particular theta frequency is more controlled by PYR-to-PV+cell interactions rather than PV+-to-PYR cell interactions. We identify two scenarios by which theta rhythms can emerge, and they can be differentiated by the ratio of excitatory to inhibitory currents to PV+cells, but not to PYR cells. Only one of the scenarios is consistent with data from the whole hippocampus preparation, which leads to the prediction that the connection probability from PV+to PYR cells needs to be larger than from PYR to PV+cells. Our models can serve as a platform on which to build and develop an understanding ofin vivotheta generation.
“Commercially Sensitive” Environmental Data: A Case Study of Oil Seep Claims for the Old Harry Prospect in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada
Authors: Bourgault Daniel , Tremblay Hugo , Schloss Irene R. , Plante Steve , Archambault Philippe
Published: July 2017

We expose the difficulties we encountered to obtain from industry environmental information that is crucial for impact studies and decision-making related to the potential development of offshore oil and gas in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Canada. This case concerns the information disseminated by the oil company Corridor Resources that there are six persistent, natural oil seeps emanating from the flanks of the Old Harry geological structure in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. According to Corridor, these seeps rise through the water column and appear at the sea surface directly above the prospect, forming permanent oil slicks visible from satellite imagery. Corridor believes this is an indication that the Old Harry prospect contains oil. While this information might be credible, it has been impossible for us to verify its accuracy because the sources are kept secret under the argument of “commercially sensitive.” Yet, such information about the possible presence of natural oil and its sources is essential to obtain and to verify in order to construct a reliable baseline initial state against which any new man-made oil contribution resulting from eventual oil and gas development could be compared with, and impacts on the marine environment, ecosystem, and people be then truly assessed. We describe the legal, economic, and political contexts in which withholding this information might happen, and we take a critical look at its impact on scientific research as well as on decision-making in society.
The role of the tumour microenvironment in immunotherapy
Authors: Gasser Stephan , Lim Lina H K , Cheung Florence S G
Published: July 2017

Recent success in immunomodulating strategies in lung cancer and melanoma has prompted much enthusiasm in their potential to treat other advanced solid malignancies. However, their applications have shown variable success and are even ineffective against some tumours. The efficiency of immunotherapies relies on an immunogenic tumour microenvironment. The current field of cancer immunology has focused on understanding the interaction of cancer and host immune cells to break the state of immune tolerance and explain how molecular patterns of cytokines and chemokines affect tumour progression. Here, we review our current knowledge of how inherent properties of tumours and their different tumour microenvironments affect therapeutic outcome. We also discuss insights into recent multimodal therapeutic approaches that target tumour immune evasion and suppression to restore anti-tumour immunity.
Trans-ancestry Fine Mapping and Molecular Assays Identify Regulatory Variants at the ANGPTL8 HDL-C GWAS Locus
Authors: Cannon Maren E , Duan Qing , Wu Ying , Zeynalzadeh Monica , Xu Zheng , Kangas Antti J , Soininen Pasi , Ala-Korpela Mika , Civelek Mete , Lusis Aldons J , Kuusisto Johanna , Collins Francis S , Boehnke Michael , Tang Hua , Laakso Markku , Li Yun , Mohlke Karen L
Published: July 2017

Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified variants associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) located in or near the ANGPTL8 gene. Given the extensive sharing of GWAS loci across populations, we hypothesized that at least one shared variant at this locus affects HDL-C. The HDL-C–associated variants are coincident with expression quantitative trait loci for ANGPTL8 and DOCK6 in subcutaneous adipose tissue; however, only ANGPTL8 expression levels are associated with HDL-C levels. We identified a 400-bp promoter region of ANGPTL8 and enhancer regions within 5 kb that contribute to regulating expression in liver and adipose. To identify variants functionally responsible for the HDL-C association, we performed fine-mapping analyses and selected 13 candidate variants that overlap putative regulatory regions to test for allelic differences in regulatory function. Of these variants, rs12463177-G increased transcriptional activity (1.5-fold, P = 0.004) and showed differential protein binding. Six additional variants (rs17699089, rs200788077, rs56322906, rs3760782, rs737337, and rs3745683) showed evidence of allelic differences in transcriptional activity and/or protein binding. Taken together, these data suggest a regulatory mechanism at the ANGPTL8 HDL-C GWAS locus involving tissue-selective expression and at least one functional variant.
A Functional Link Between Bir1 and the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Ctf19 Kinetochore Complex Revealed Through Quantitative Fitness Analysis
Authors: Makrantoni Vasso , Ciesiolka Adam , Lawless Conor , Fernius Josefin , Marston Adele , Lydall David , Stark Michael J R
Published: July 2017

The chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) is a key regulator of eukaryotic cell division, consisting of the protein kinase Aurora B/Ipl1 in association with its activator (INCENP/Sli15) and two additional proteins (Survivin/Bir1 and Borealin/Nbl1). Here, we report a genome-wide genetic interaction screen in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using the bir1-17 mutant, identifying through quantitative fitness analysis deletion mutations that act as enhancers and suppressors. Gene knockouts affecting the Ctf19 kinetochore complex were identified as the strongest enhancers of bir1-17, while mutations affecting the large ribosomal subunit or the mRNA nonsense-mediated decay pathway caused strong phenotypic suppression. Thus, cells lacking a functional Ctf19 complex become highly dependent on Bir1 function and vice versa. The negative genetic interaction profiles of bir1-17 and the cohesin mutant mcd1-1 showed considerable overlap, underlining the strong functional connection between sister chromatid cohesion and chromosome biorientation. Loss of some Ctf19 components, such as Iml3 or Chl4, impacted differentially on bir1-17 compared with mutations affecting other CPC components: despite the synthetic lethality shown by either iml3∆ or chl4∆ in combination with bir1-17, neither gene knockout showed any genetic interaction with either ipl1-321 or sli15-3. Our data therefore imply a specific functional connection between the Ctf19 complex and Bir1 that is not shared with Ipl1.
Stress-Induced Sleep After Exposure to Ultraviolet Light Is Promoted by p53 inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: DeBardeleben Hilary K , Lopes Lindsey E , Nessel Mark P , Raizen David M
Published: July 2017

The conservation of sleep among animals suggests that this behavior serves an important adaptive function; however, a unifying function for and genetic.....

Stress-induced sleep (SIS) in Caenorhabditis elegans is important for restoration of cellular homeostasis and is a useful model to study the function and regulation of sleep. SIS is triggered when epidermal growth factor (EGF) activates the ALA neuron, which then releases neuropeptides to promote sleep. To further understand this behavior, we established a new model of SIS using irradiation by ultraviolet C (UVC) light. While UVC irradiation requires ALA signaling and leads to a sleep state similar to that induced by heat and other stressors, it does not induce the proteostatic stress seen with heat exposure. Based on the known genotoxic effects of UVC irradiation, we tested two genes, atl-1 and cep-1, which encode proteins that act in the DNA damage response pathway. Loss-of-function mutants of atl-1 had no defect in UVC-induced SIS but a partial loss-of-function mutant of cep-1, gk138, had decreased movement quiescence following UVC irradiation. Germline ablation experiments and tissue-specific RNA interference experiments showed that cep-1 is required somatically in neurons for its effect on SIS. The cep-1(gk138) mutant suppressed body movement quiescence controlled by EGF, indicating that CEP-1 acts downstream or in parallel to ALA activation to promote quiescence in response to ultraviolet light.
Transferencia de dorsal ancho para el tratamiento de las lesiones masivas e irreparables del manguito rotador. [Latissimus dorsi transfer for treatment of massive and irreparable rotator cuff injuries.]
Authors: Zaidenberg Carlos Rodolfo , Zaidenberg Ezequiel Ernesto , Pastrana Martin Jose , Francisco Federico
Published: July 2017

 

Introducción: Las rupturas masivas e irreparables del manguito rotador (PSMR) crónicas progresan hacia la pérdida de la rotación externa y finalmente a la migración hacia superior de la cabeza humeral. El objetivo del trabajo es realizar una valoración clínico-radiológica de pacientes con rupturas masivas PSMR tratadas con transferencia del dorsal ancho.

Materiales y métodos: Criterios de inclusión: 1) menor de 70 años 2) lesión masiva postero-superior del manguito rotador  3) Perdida de fuerza en rotación externa y abducción 4) resonancia magnética mostrando retracción grado III-IV de Patte 5) tratados con transferencia del dorsal ancho y 6) seguimiento mayor a 2 años. Se excluyeron pacientes con artrosis glenohumeral avanzada asociada (Hamada III-IV-V). Se valoró la movilidad y la fuerza en abducción. Además se registraron la Escala Visual Analoga (EVA) para el dolor y la escala de Constant-Murley. Se analizaron radiograficamente la  distancia acromio-humeral y el grado de artropatia. Se registraron las complicaciones y necesidad de reoperación.

Resultados: Diez y siete pacientes fueron incluidos. Doce varones y 5 mujeres. La edad promedio fue de 54 años (34-65). El seguimiento promedio de 46  meses (24-71).

La movilidad promedio en flexión fue de 53º, en abducción de 50º y en rotación externa de 19º. La fuerza en abducción una ganancia promedio de 1,4 kg.

El EVA posoperatoria mejoró 5,1 puntos respecto del preoperatorio promedio. La escala de Constant-Murley de 75,6 (63,4-80,7) al final del seguimiento.

Conclusión: La transferencia del dorsal ancho para las lesiones PSMR mostró mejoras en el rango de movilidad, fuerza, alivio del dolor y función del hombro.