bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association Between Adverse Child Health, Psychological, Educational and Social Outcomes, and Nondependent Parental Substance: A Rapid Evidence Assessment
Authors: McGovern Ruth , Gilvarry Eilish , Addison Michelle , Alderson Hayley , Geijer-Simpson Emma , Lingam Raghu , Smart Debbie , Kaner Eileen
Published: May 2018

Background:

Between 5% and 30% of children in high-income countries live with a substance misusing parent, the majority of which is below dependent levels. However, little is understood about the impact of nondependent parental substance misuse upon children.

Methods:

We searched the international literature using rigorous systematic methods to identify studies examining parental substance misuse and adverse outcomes in children. The inclusion criteria were cross-sectional, longitudinal, case-control, and cohort studies; of children aged 0–18 years whose parents are high-risk substance misusers; reporting on their health, psychological, substance use, educational, and social outcomes.

Results:

We identified 36 papers (from 33 unique studies), most of which were assessed as being of medium to high methodological quality ( N= 28). Parental nondependent substance misuse was found to be associated with adversity in children, with strong evidence of an association with externalizing difficulties ( N = 7 papers, all finding an association) and substance use ( N = 23 papers, all finding an association) in adolescents and some evidence of adverse health outcomes in early childhood ( N = 6/8 papers finding an association). There is less evidence of an association between parental substance misuse and adverse educational and social outcomes. The body of evidence was largest for parental alcohol misuse, with research examining the impact of parental illicit drug use being limited.

Conclusion:

Methodological limitations restrict our ability to make causal inference. Nonetheless, the prevalence of adverse outcomes in children whose parents are nondependent substance misusers highlights the need for practitioners to intervene with this population before a parent has developed substance dependency.
Minimum-latency data aggregation scheduling based on multi-path routing structures under physical interference model
Authors: Liu Wenbin , Yang Bo , Chen Zhili
Published: May 2018

Minimum-Latency Aggregation Scheduling is a significant problem in wireless sensor networks. The key challenge is to find an effective solution to aggregate data from all sensors to the sink with minimum aggregation latency. In this article, we propose a novel data aggregation scheduling algorithm under the physical interference model. First, the algorithm partitions the network into square cells according to the communication range of a sensor. Second, a node is selected randomly as the aggregated node to receive the data from the other nodes in the same cell. Finally, a data aggregation tree, which consists of multiple disjoint paths, is constructed to aggregate data from all aggregated nodes to the sink. We empirically proved that the delay of the aggregation schedule generated by our algorithm is ( K+1)2Δ− K−1+2λ time-slots at most, where K is a constant depending on the sensors transmitting power, the signal-to-interference-plus-noise-ratio threshold, and the path-loss exponent; [Formula: see text] represents the maximal number of nodes in a cell; and [Formula: see text] denotes the number of cells at a row/column in a square network area. Simulation results also show that our algorithm achieves lower average latency than the previous works.
Addressing the Challenges Related to Transforming Qualitative Into Quantitative Data in Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: de Block Debora , Vis Barbara
Published: May 2018

The use of qualitative data has so far received relatively little attention in methodological discussions on qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). This article addresses this lacuna by discussing the challenges researchers face when transforming qualitative data into quantitative data in QCA. By reviewing 29 empirical studies using qualitative data for QCA, we explore common practices related to data calibration, data presentation, and sensitivity testing. Based on these three issues, we provide considerations when using qualitative data for QCA, which are relevant both for QCA scholars working with qualitative data and the wider mixed methods research community involved in quantitizing.
Low foreign language proficiency reduces optimism about the personal future
Authors: Oganian Yulia , Heekeren Hauke R , Korn Christoph W
Published: May 2018

Optimistic estimates about the personal future constitute one of the best-described and most-debated decision biases related to emotion. Nevertheless, it has been difficult to isolate manipulations that reduce optimistic estimates. Eliciting estimates in a foreign language is a promising candidate manipulation because foreign language use alters decision biases in scenarios with emotional components. Consequently, we tested whether foreign language use reduces optimistic estimates. In a laboratory experiment, participants ( n = 45) estimated their probability of experiencing life events either in their native language or a foreign language, in which they were highly proficient. We found no differences in these estimates or in the updating of these estimates after receiving feedback about the population baseline probability. Importantly, three online experiments with large sample sizes ( ns = 706, 530, and 473) showed that using a foreign language with low proficiency reduced comparative optimism. Participants in the online experiments had diverse proficiency levels and were matched on a variety of control metrics. Fine-grained analyses indicated that low proficiency weakens the coupling between probability estimates and rated arousal. Overall, our findings suggest that an important decision bias can be reduced when using a foreign language with low proficiency.
Print-sound regularities are more important than print-meaning regularities in the initial stages of learning to read: Response to Bowers & Bowers (2018)
Authors: Rastle Kathleen , Taylor J S H
Published: May 2018

We previously reported an artificial language learning study designed to compare methods of reading instruction that emphasise learning the relationship between spelling and sound versus learning the relationship between spelling and meaning. Behavioural and neural data supported emphasis on spelling-sound knowledge, and we therefore advocated use of phonics in the initial stages of learning to read. Bowers and Bowers argue that these conclusions are not justified because we (a) mischaracterised the English writing system and (b) mischaracterised the meaning-based instruction used in schools. In this article, we respond to the first point by showing that the novel words used previously were a good approximation to the types of written words that children are exposed to in the first year of reading instruction. We respond to the second point by showing that while enhancements to meaning-based instruction can assist pupils to infer the meanings of unfamiliar words, these methods actually disadvantage long-term learning of those words. We conclude by suggesting that reading instruction should be based on an understanding of the writing system, properly characterised across the trajectory of learning. This means emphasis on spelling-sound regularities in the initial stage of learning to read and increasing emphasis on spelling-meaning regularities as children gain greater experience with text.
Partition dependence in development: Are children’s decisions shaped by the arbitrary grouping of options?
Authors: Reichelson Sheri , Zax Alexandra , Patalano Andrea L , Barth Hilary C
Published: May 2018

The grouping of options into arbitrary categories influences adults’ decisions about allocating choices or resources among those options; this is called “partition dependence.” Partition dependence has been demonstrated in a wide range of contexts in adults and is often presented as a technique for designing choice architectures that nudge people towards better decisions. Whether children also make partition dependent decisions is unknown, as are potential patterns of developmental change. In this experiment ( N = 159), we examined whether children exhibit partition dependence using a novel resource allocation task. This novel task, distributing food tokens to zoo animals, did elicit partition dependence in our developmental sample. Both older children (ages 7-10 years) and younger children (ages 3-6 years) made partition dependent allocations, and younger children exhibited a larger partition dependence effect than did older children. This work provides the first evidence that children’s decisions, like adults’, are influenced by the arbitrary grouping of the options, and suggests that younger children may be more susceptible to this influence, at least in the context explored here.
The gap between here and there: Communication and information processes in the migration context of Syrian and Iraqi refugees on their way to Germany
Authors: Fiedler Anke
Published: May 2018

Set against the background of the so-called refugee crisis in Germany in 2015/16, this article asks about the subjective value that refugees give different sources of information and examines whether they were making informed decisions during the various stages of their transit. Between November 2015 and April 2016, four focus groups and 36 in-depth interviews were conducted with Syrian and Iraqi refugees, as well as interviews with Iraqi experts in the media and civil society sectors, based on the theoretical concepts of network and broadcast feedback developed by Bakewell and Jolivet. The results show that, unlike the mass media, personal network and narrowcast feedback were the most important sources of information for the study's participants. While most of the interviewees felt adequately informed both before and during their transit, it was mainly after the refugees arrived in Germany that they experienced a deficit of information.
Alosetron use in clinical practice: significant improvement in irritable bowel syndrome symptoms evaluated using the US Food and Drug Administration composite endpoint
Authors: Lacy Brian E. , Nicandro Jean Paul , Chuang Emil , Earnest David L.
Published: May 2018

Background:

Alosetron is approved to treat women with severe IBS and diarrhea (IBS-D) who have failed standard therapy. In our study, we aimed to evaluate alosetron efficacy using new US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endpoints and utilization in clinical practice.

Methods:

This prospective, open-label, multicenter, observational 12-week study evaluated women with severe IBS-D enrolled in the alosetron prescribing program. The coprimary FDA endpoints were changes from baseline in stool consistency and abdominal pain severity. Responders achieved a 30% decrease compared with baseline in weekly average of the worst abdominal pain in the past 24 h, and a 50% or greater reduction from baseline in the number of days/week with at least one stool of type 6 (mushy) or type 7 (watery) consistency. Secondary endpoints included changes from baseline in stool frequency, fecal urgency and fecal incontinence.

Results:

Enrolled patients ( n = 192) were primarily White (90.6%), with a mean age of 44.5 years. Patient and physician rating of IBS severity was between moderate and severe (85.9% concordance, Spearman coefficient 0.429, p < 0.0001). Alosetron 0.5 mg twice daily (82.8%) was the most common dosing regimen. A total of 152 alosetron-treated patients completed the study. Of 105 fully evaluable patients, 45% met the FDA composite endpoint responder criteria for ⩾50% of the study period. Improvements in all individual symptoms were statistically significant compared with baseline. There were no serious adverse events, cases of colonic ischemia, or complications of constipation.

Conclusion:

In a clinical practice setting study, alosetron demonstrated treatment success using a rigorous FDA composite endpoint and also improved multiple other IBS symptoms, including fecal urgency and incontinence in women with severe IBS-D [ ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01257477].
The effect of fake tan on hand hygiene practice
Authors: Melone Lynn , Price Lesley , Ness Valerie , Simpson Liz , MacDonald Jennifer , Reilly Jacqueline
Published: May 2018

Hand hygiene is the single most important measure in reducing the spread of infection. The aim of this study was to assess the uptake of fake tan in nursing students and evaluate the impact of wearing fake tan on hand hygiene training lotion removal during handwashing with soap and water. Of the 217 participants recruited, 21% wore fake tan. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between fake tan and non-fake tan wearers. Consequentially, no guidelines regarding the wearing of fake tan in clinical practice are currently required.
Serious subjects: A test of the seriousness technique to increase participant motivation in political science experiments
Authors: Bayram A. Burcu
Published: May 2018

A central concern for experimental studies is participant motivation, which is crucial for internal validity. When participants are not committed to the task, internal validity diminishes because responses might not be authentic. This study introduces and tests the seriousness technique as a method for increasing participant investment in political science experiments that use student samples. The seriousness technique aims at creating a sense of responsibility by telling students that their participation is important because science needs quality data. Results from a computer-assisted foreign policy decision-making experiment show that the seriousness technique increased the degree of information participants access during the foreign policy simulation and the time they spent on the study. These findings suggest that political scientists who use student samples in their experiments can nurture serious subjects by employing the seriousness technique. It is argued that the results should be of interest not only to experimentalists but also to all scholars who use human subjects, including survey researchers, in their research.
Bronchoscopic debulking of a feline tracheobronchial carcinoma and long-term outcome
Authors: Ruiz Marina Dominguez , Grant Jessica , Hernandez Juan
Published: May 2018

Case summary

This report describes a 10-year-old female spayed Russian Blue cat presented with a 5 month history of respiratory difficulty. Thoracic radiographs were suggestive of a central airway obstruction. Bronchoscopy revealed a broad-base mass in the region of the carina. Bronchoscopic debulking was performed using a urinary catheter. Histopathology confirmed the presence of a tracheobronchial carcinoma. Survival from diagnosis was 16 months (480 days), over which time the cat underwent three endoscopic debulking procedures in combination with doxorubicin chemotherapy.

Relevance and novel information

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a tracheobronchial carcinoma in a cat treated by endoscopic debulking with a urinary catheter and adjuvant chemotherapy with long-term survival time. A review of interventional bronchoscopy performed in humans and in veterinary medicine is described.
Investigating the origin and evolution of cerebral small vessel disease: The RUN DMC – InTENse study
Authors: ter Telgte Annemieke , Wiegertjes Kim , Tuladhar Anil M , Noz Marlies P , Marques José P , Gesierich Benno , Huebner Mathias , Mutsaerts Henk-Jan MM , Elias-Smale Suzette E , Beelen Marie-José , Ropele Stefan , Kessels Roy PC , Riksen Niels P , Klijn Catharina JM , Norris David G , Duering Marco , de Leeuw Frank-Erik
Published: May 2018

Background

Neuroimaging in older adults commonly reveals signs of cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). SVD is believed to be caused by chronic hypoperfusion based on animal models and longitudinal studies with inter-scan intervals of years. Recent imaging evidence, however, suggests a role for acute ischaemia, as indicated by incidental diffusion-weighted imaging lesions (DWI+ lesions), in the origin of SVD. Furthermore, it becomes increasingly recognised that focal SVD lesions likely affect the structure and function of brain areas remote from the original SVD lesion. However, the temporal dynamics of these events are largely unknown.

Aims

(1) To investigate the monthly incidence of DWI+ lesions in subjects with SVD; (2) to assess to which extent these lesions explain progression of SVD imaging markers; (3) to investigate their effects on cortical thickness, structural and functional connectivity and cognitive and motor performance; and (4) to investigate the potential role of the innate immune system in the pathophysiology of SVD.

Design/methods

The RUN DMC – InTENse study is a longitudinal observational study among 54 non-demented RUN DMC survivors with mild to severe SVD and no other presumed cause of ischaemia. We performed MRI assessments monthly during 10 consecutive months (totalling up to 10 scans per subject), complemented with clinical, motor and cognitive examinations.

Discussion

Our study will provide a better understanding of the role of DWI+ lesions in the pathophysiology of SVD and will further unravel the structural and functional consequences and clinical importance of these lesions, with an unprecedented temporal resolution. Understanding the role of acute, potentially ischaemic, processes in SVD may provide new strategies for therapies.
Electronic Cigarette Awareness, Use, and Perceptions among Cancer Patients
Authors: Buczek Erin J. , Harrington Kathleen F. , Hendricks Peter S. , Schmalbach Cecelia E.
Published: May 2018

Objective

Electronic cigarettes (e‐cigs) are an emerging trend, yet little is known about their use in the cancer population. The objectives of this study were (1) to describe characteristics of e‐cig use among cancer patients, (2) to define e‐cig advertising exposure, and (3) to characterize perceptions of traditional cigarettes versus e‐cigs.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Comprehensive cancer center.

Subjects and Methods

Inpatient, current smokers with a cancer diagnosis. E‐cig exposure and use were defined using descriptive statistics. Wilcoxon rank test was used to compare perceptions between e‐cigs and traditional cigarettes.

Results

A total of 979 patients were enrolled in the study; 39 cancer patients were identified. Most cancer patients were women (59%), with an average age of 53.3 years. Of the patients, 46.2% reported e‐cig use, most of which (88.9%) was “experimental or occasional.” The primary reason for e‐cig use was to aid smoking cessation (66.7%), alternative use in nonsmoking areas (22.2%), and “less risky” cigarette replacement (5.6%). The most common sources for e‐cig information were TV (76.9%), stores (48.7%), friends (35.9%), family (30.8%), and newspapers or magazines (12.8%). Compared with cigarettes, e‐cigs were viewed as posing a reduced health risk (P <. 001) and conferring a less negative social impression (P <. 001). They were also viewed as less likely to satisfy nicotine cravings (P =. 002), to relieve boredom (P =. 0005), to have a calming effect (P <. 001), and as tasting pleasant (P =. 006)

Conclusions

E‐cig use and advertising exposure are common among cancer patients. E‐cig use is perceived as healthier and more socially acceptable but less likely to produce a number of desired consequences of cigarette use.
Clinical symptoms and results of autonomic function testing overlap in spontaneous intracranial hypotension and postural tachycardia syndrome
Authors: Graf Nina , Fernandes Santos Ana Mafalda , Ulrich Christian T , Fung Christian , Raabe Andreas , Beck Jürgen , Z’Graggen Werner J
Published: May 2018

Background and purpose:

Orthostatic headache is a hallmark of patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) but may also occur in patients with postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS). Our aim was to compare the clinical symptoms and findings of autonomic function testing in patients with SIH and POTS.

Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of the clinical symptoms and findings of autonomic function testing, including sympathetic vasoconstrictor and parasympathetic cardiac function as well as head-up tilt in patients with SIH and POTS.

Results:

Nine patients with confirmed SIH and 48 with POTS (neuropathic N = 35, hyperadrenergic N = 5, deconditioned N = 8) were included. SIH patients experienced on average a shorter disease duration than patients with POTS. Orthostatic headache was present in all patients with SIH and 27% of patients with POTS. There was a broad overlap of other clinical symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. Screening autonomic function testing revealed normal sympathetic and parasympathetic function in all patients. All patients with SIH showed an excessive clinically symptomatic heart rate increase during standing, fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for POTS.

Conclusion:

Clinical symptoms and results of autonomic function testing overlap in SIH and POTS. Hence, patients with prominent orthostatic headache fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for POTS should also be evaluated for further testing of a spinal cerebrospinal fluid leak, in the absence of a history of lumbar puncture.
A CD19/CD3 bispecific antibody for effective immunotherapy of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the ibrutinib era
Authors: Robinson Hannah R. , Qi Junpeng , Cook Erika M. , Nichols Cydney , Dadashian Eman L. , Underbayev Chingiz , Herman Sarah E. M. , Saba Nakhle S. , Keyvanfar Keyvan , Sun Clare , Ahn Inhye E. , Baskar Sivasubramanian , Rader Christoph , Wiestner Adrian
Published: May 2018

Key Points

A CD19/CD3 single-chain Fv-Fc bsAb mediated potent killing of CLL cells by autologous T cells in vitro and in vivo. bsAb-mediated cytotoxicity was enhanced by prior therapy with ibrutinib and extended to ibrutinib-resistant disease.
An information-aware visualization for privacy-preserving accelerometer data sharing
Authors: Xiao Fengjun , Lu Mingming , Zhao Ying , Menasria Soumia , Meng Dan , Xie Shangsheng , Li Juncai , Li Chengzhi
Published: May 2018

In the age of big data, plenty of valuable sensing data have been shared to enhance scientific innovation. However, this may cause unexpected privacy leakage. Although numerous privacy preservation techniques, such as perturbation, encryption, and anonymization, have been proposed to conceal sensitive information, it is usually at the cost of the application utility. Moreover, most of the existing works did not distinguished the underlying factors, such as data features and sampling rate, which contribute differently to utility and privacy information implied in the shared data. To well balance the application utility and privacy leakage for data sharing, we utilize mutual information and visualization techniques to analyze the impact of the underlying factors on utility and privacy, respectively, and design an interactive visualization tool to help users identify the appropriate solution to achieve the objectives of high application utility and low privacy leakage simultaneously. To illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme and tool, accelerometer data collected from mobile devices have been adopted as an illustrative example. Experimental study has shown that feature selection and sampling frequency play dominant roles in reducing privacy leakage with much less reduction on utility, and the proposed visualization tool can effectively recommend the appropriate combination of features and sampling rates that can help users make decision on the trade-off between utility and privacy.
Geophysical helicopter-based magnetic methods for locating wells
Authors: Kaminski Vladislav , Hammack Richard W. , Harbert William , Veloski Garret A. , Sams James , Greg Hodges D.
Published: May 2018

We studied the problem of determining accurately the location of abandoned and sometimes undocumented wells and the challenging and increasingly important task related to subsurface reservoir integrity and regional economic development. We reviewed a variety of semiquantitative methods based on geophysical workflows, and we tested these with airborne magnetic data collected at two field sites. Our main conclusion is that airborne magnetic surveys represent a high-value tool to aid in the accurate determination of abandoned well locations and characteristics. At one site, two surveys were collected at slightly different altitudes to compare workflow robustness and allow the observed vertical magnetic gradient to be included in well detection workflows. We also investigated using focal zone anomaly statistics (using the magnetic field intensity and its first and second horizontal derivatives), analytic signal, tilt derivative, and calculated vertical gradient. In addition, we used a 3D inversion of a small subset of data to investigate the successful recovery of well-related magnetic susceptibility distribution and estimate subsurface well topology. The recovered magnetic susceptibility volume showed distinctive vertically elongated objects that correspond to known wells. Maximum likelihood estimation and confidence calculations were then applied to these data sets and indicated that high-confidence well locations could be determined and characterized using such airborne total magnetic data.
A hybrid solver based on the integral equation method and vector finite-element method for 3D controlled-source electromagnetic method modeling
Authors: Liu Rong , Guo Rongwen , Liu Jianxin , Ma Changying , Guo Zhenwei
Published: May 2018

The integral equation method (IEM) and differential equation methods have been widely applied to provide numerical solutions of the electromagnetic (EM) fields caused by inhomogeneity for the controlled-source EM method. IEM has a bounded computational domain and has been well-known for its efficiency, whereas differential equation methods are commonly used for complex geologic models. To use the advantages of the two types of approaches, a hybrid method is developed based on the combination of IEM and the edge-based finite-element method (vector FEM). In the hybrid scheme, Maxwell’s differential equations of the secondary electric fields in the frequency domain are derived for a volume with boundary placed slightly away from the inhomogeneity. The vector FEM is applied to solve Maxwell’s differential equations, and a system of linear equations for the secondary electric fields can be derived by the minimum theorem. The secondary electric fields on the boundary are represented by IEM in terms of the secondary electric fields inside the inhomogeneity. The linear equations from substituting the boundary values into the vector FEM linear equations then can be solved to obtain the secondary electric fields inside the inhomogeneity. The secondary electric fields at receivers are calculated by IEM based on the secondary electric field solutions inside the inhomogeneity. The hybrid algorithm is verified by comparison of simulated results with earlier works on canonical 3D disc models with a high accuracy. Numerical comparisons with two conventional IEMs demonstrate that the hybrid method is more accurate and efficient for high-conductivity contrast media.
Toward a Phenomenology of Luxury
Authors: Wiesing Lambert
Published: May 2018

The aim of this article is to introduce the idea of a phenomenology of luxury. The thesis is that luxury cannot be a characteristic of things or of actions, but that it arises through a private aesthetic experience, which can be identified as a functional equivalent to play as it is found in Friedrich Schiller. If an autonomous subject possesses something exaggeratedly, superfluously, or irrationally elaborate, and if that subject further experiences ownership as liberation from the forceful demands of goal-oriented rationality and utilitarian thinking, then that something is luxury.
Photostability of Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) in P3HT:Fullerene Films: Effects of Dispersed Structures of Fullerene Derivatives
Authors: Yamane Shogo , Suzuki Yasumasa , Mizukado Junji
Published: May 2018

The relationship between photostability and dispersed structures of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT):fullerene films was studied using atomic force microscopy and UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy. The films with higher dispersity showed better photostability. An evaluation method based on UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy was found to be promising to estimate the photostability of the films.
Establishment of a method for Lutzomyia longipalpis sand fly embryo microinjection: The first step towards potential novel control strategies for leishmaniasis
Authors: Jeffries Claire L. , Rogers Matthew E. , Walker Thomas
Published: May 2018

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne parasitic disease transmitted by sand flies that affects 1.3 million people across 98 countries, with limited control strategies due to the lack of an available vaccine and the emergence of insecticide resistance.  Novel control strategies that are being explored for mosquito-borne diseases, such as Wolbachia bacterial inhibition of pathogens and genetically modified insects (e.g. using CRISPR-Cas9 editing), rely on the ability to consistently inject embryos of the target species.  Here we present a novel method to obtain and inject preblastoderm sand fly embryos of the genus Lutzomyia (Lu.) longipalpis, the principle vector of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis in South America. The procedures required to obtain sufficiently young Lu. longipalpis colony embryos are described alongside a microinjection technique that permits rapid injection and minimal handling of small sand fly embryos post-injection. Using a strain of Wolbachia as a ‘marker’ for successful injection, our protocol produced early generation Wolbachia transinfected Lu. longipalpis lines, demonstrating its potential as the first step for use in novel applied strategies for sand fly control.
Report of the Nomenclature Committee for Algae: 18
Authors: McNeill John , Andersen Robert A.
Published: May 2018

The name Gelidium bipectinatum G. Furnari is recommended for conservation, the name Cyanospira G. Florenz. & al. is not recommended for conservation, and comments are made on the accepted proposal to conserve Scrippsiella Balech. A lectotype specimen was designated for Sphaerococcus pectinatus Mont.
Fit for life: improving nutrition in care home residents
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: May 2018

Ageing affects the appetite, in addition to that many care home residents live with swallowing problems, therefore malnutrition is a very real danger. Linda Nazarko discusses the causes and explains ways to prevent malnutrition
Raising awareness of mouth cancer in the care home
Authors: Hewson Victoria Louise
Published: May 2018

Oral hygiene is important for everyone, no matter their age. Victoria Louise Hewson discusses mouth cancer in the care home setting and advises on spotting early signs of mouth cancer and cancer prevention
Filling the gap when a senior employee leaves
Authors: Themistocleous Chloe
Published: May 2018

Every staff member is valuable, but when a senior employee decides to leave the business, it can be particularly hard to replace them. Chloe Themistocleous advises on the process directly after notice has been given and the handover period
Appeasing an angry family member with a complaint
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: May 2018

When it comes to the care of their loved one, emotions can run high with family members. Adam Bernstein advises how to calm down an angry complainant and discusses the potential underlying motives for their anger
Joining the elite: Willersley House achieves outstanding review
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: May 2018

An inspection from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) is not just a reason to worry, it can also be an opportunity for care home managers to show off their organisation. Helena Frankova discusses elite care homes and how to reach this status.
How to … organise a successful job interview
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: May 2018

With high staff turnover and a plethora of unfilled vacancies throughout the industry, recruitment is a returning issue in every care home. Adrian Ashurst talks about the best way to select candidates and to organise the recruitment process within the home.
EquineReview
Authors: Parker Russell
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

This edition of Equine Review considers papers on recovery scores in horses undergoing multiple anaesthetics, correction of moderate/severe angular limb deformity using a single transphyseal screw, and treatment of septic navicular bursitis.
Evaluation of Phytchemicals and Fluorescent Analysis of Roots, Leaves and Stem of Dryopteris chrysocoma (Christ) C. Chr.
Authors: Jahan Noor , Mehjabeen  , Ahmad Mansoor , Qureshi Mehmood , Mohammad Shafi , Ahmed Siddiqui Faheem
Published: May 2018

Dryopteris chrysocoma is male fern. It is widely distributed as ornamental plant. It is found in damp and moist areas and is common in high altitudes of Pakistan. The palnt has medicinal importance also as it has anthelmintic property. The present study is conducted to determine various phytochemicals present in roots, leaves and stem of D. chrysocoma. Various chemical tests as Lead acetate, Ferric chloride, Salwaski, Dragondroff’s, Liebermans Burchart, Molisch’s, Organic solvent, picric and tannic acids test were performed for the determination of chemical constituents. It showed presence of tannins, phenols and flavonoids, sterols, alkaloids, steroids and triterpenes, carbohydrates and proteins. For the standardization of plant material fluorescence analysis of powder of roots, leaves and stem was performed by treating powder with different chemicals and observing it at ordinary light and UV light at 254 and 366nm. That showed fluorescence and the presence of different chemicals. TLC analysis was performed that showed presence of certain constituents in the form of spots. HPLC and FTIR analysis was performed for identification of phytochemicals and their functional groups. These phytochemicals are responsible for medicinal activities as rhizome contains phloroglucinol derivatives of crude filicin that has vermifuge and abortifacient effects.
Micropropagation of some Sewa Oasis Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Cultivars Grown in Egypt
Authors: A. Ibrahim Ibrahim , F. Gabr Mahdia , I. Nasr Mahmoud , A. Hemeida Alaa , I. Diab Mohamed
Published: May 2018

Shoot tip and leaf primordial explants of Phoenix dactylifera L. cvs. (Sewi and Oshkingbeel) were cultured in modified MS medium supplemented with various combinations between different growth regulators cytokinins (2iP or BA) and Auxins (2, 4-D or NAA). Friable callus was produced from shoot tip and leaf primordial explants. The highest percentage of callus initiation was achieved on modified MS medium supplemented with 100 mg/L 2,4-D and 3 mg/L 2iP for shoot tip and leaf primordial explants. The highest percentage of embryogenic callus was achieved on modified MS medium supplemented with 10 mg/L 2,4-D, 5 mg/L NAA, 3 mg/L 2iP and 3.0 g/L activated charcoal which gave 87.5% and 75% for Sewi and Oshkingbeel cvs., respectively. Somatic embryos formation were obvious on modified MS medium plus 0.1 mg/L NAA which gave the highest average number (5.16, 4.94) for Sewi and Oshkingbeel, respectively after three subcultures. Greatest embryonic elongation resulted at 0.5 mg/L 2iP + 0.5 mg/L kinetin + 40 g/L sucrose in solid full strength MS medium. Also, the highest value of leaves number was shown on the same medium. The complete plantlets developed from individual embryos (5-10 cm) were transferred to rooting MS medium supplemented with 1 mg/L NAA with good growth in solid and liquid media. Rooted date palm plantlets from both cultivars were transferred to plastic pots (5cm diameter) containing peat-moss, sand and vermiculite at equal volume. Acclimatization percentage decreased gradually during four months in the first acclimatization stage. Date palm plantlets produced from the first acclimatization stage were transferred to plastic pots (20 cm diameter) containing peatmoss, washed sand and vermiculite at equal volume for more growth and development to be ready to cultivate in the field. Although survival percentage was low during the first acclimatization stage, it was very high in the second acclimatization stage and date palm survival percentage became constant after another six months with good growth.
Western Himalaya Trees Growth Study and its Association with Droughts in India: A Case Study
Authors: Ram Somaru , Borgaonkar H.P. , Nandargi S.S.
Published: May 2018

Tree ring-width index chronology based on a well replicated tree core samples from the western Himalaya showed significant positive relationship with standardized precipitation potential evapotranspiration (SPEI) and standardized soil index (SSI) during summer season (April-June). However, SSI that describes the drought index over the region is found more compatible with tree growth variations than SPEI in controlling the annual ring-width patterns. It shows high temporal stability with trees growth compared to SPEI. The results showed that the SSI which is an indicator of drought index has strong localized effects on patterns of annual tree growth and forest dynamic, working as booster in limiting of trees growth over western Himalaya.
Influence of Different Substrate on Nutrients in Lettuce
Authors: Slamic B. , Jug T.
Published: May 2018

The need for fast nitrogen releasing organic fertilizer, being allowable and economically accessible for organic farming is high. So authors have studied the growth of lettuce plants on different substrates (rock-wool, sheep wool and soil) and its influence on mineral content of lettuce plants grown in hydroponic system.
Regardless the fact that there were significant differences in the plant growth- seedlings in sheep wool grew faster, there were no significant difference in fresh weight at harvest, but faster growing plant had heavier dry weight of roots. Mineral contents didn’t show important consequences, although we would expect it at least for potassium. So we cannot conclude sheep wool is more efficient substrate than rock wool or soil, but considering the fact that plants grew faster in it with similar nutrients content, it still seems like an optimal choice.
Missed Work Due to Occupational Illness among Hispanic Horse Workers
Authors: Bush Ashley M. , Westneat Susan , Browning Steven R. , Swanberg Jennifer
Published: May 2018

Abstract. Occupational illnesses are inadequately reported for agriculture, an industry dominated by a vulnerable Hispanic population and high fatal and nonfatal injury rates. Work-related illnesses can contribute to missed work, caused by a combination of personal and work factors, with costs to the individual, employer, and society. To better understand agricultural occupational illnesses, 225 Hispanic horse workers were interviewed via community-based convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and log binomial regression modeling were used to: (1) describe the prevalence of missed work due to work-related illnesses among Hispanic horse workers, (2) examine work-related and personal factors associated with missed work, and (3) identify health symptoms and work-related characteristics potentially associated with missed work. Key findings reveal that having at least one child (PR = 1.71, 95% CI = 1.03, 2.84), having poor self-reported general health (PR = 0.72, 95% CI = 0.48, 1.08), experiencing stress during a typical workday (PR = 2.58, 95% CI = 1.25, 5.32), or spending less time with horses (PR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.15, 3.05) are significant predictors of missing work. Interventions can be designed to identify workers most susceptible to missing work and provide resources to reduce absenteeism. Future research should examine work-related illness in agricultural horse production, including personal and work-related factors, in order to diminish occupational health disparities among these workers, who are more likely to be employed in hazardous agricultural work. Keywords: Agriculture, Health disparities, Horse workers, Missed work, Occupational illness, Worker absenteeism.
Avaliação Hidroquímica e de Parâmetros Físico-Químicos de Qualidade das Águas Subterrâneas da Zona Urbana do Município de Sousa-PB
Authors: Gomes Mirelly Alexandre , Ramos Emanuel Victor Da Silva , Dos Santos Luís Carlos , Bitu Samuel Guedes , Gadelha Antonio José Ferreira
Published: May 2018

O semiárido do nordeste brasileiro tem sido castigado durante os últimos anos com uma estiagem prolongada caracterizada por precipitações irregulares e abaixo da média histórica para a região. Isso tem levado as populações a buscarem novas fontes de água para suprir suas necessidades. Uma das fontes mais procuradas são as águas subterrâneas. Foi o caso do município de Sousa no estado da Paraíba, que, por meio da prefeitura, promoveu a perfuração de diversos poços na zona urbana da cidade. No entanto, não foram feitos estudos hidroquímicos sobre a qualidade dessas águas. Neste sentido, este trabalho objetivou avaliar hidroquimicamente as águas subterrâneas de 13 poços da zona urbana do município de Sousa-PB no período de julho a dezembro de 2017. Foram avaliados os parâmetros pH, condutividade elétrica, carbonatos, bicarbonatos, cloretos, cálcio, magnésio, potássio e sódio. Verificou-se que as águas desses poços apresentam elevados teores de sólidos dissolvidos, tendo sido classificadas como sódico cloretadas e sódico bicarbonatadas. Com relação a um possível uso na agricultura, todas as amostras apresentaram um risco de salinização alto ou muito alto e um risco de sódio variando entre baixo e muito forte.
OPTIMALIZATION OF PHOTOREACTOR GEOMETRY FOR THE CULTIVATION OF CHLAMYDOMONAS REINHARDTII
Authors: Fekete Roman , Žáková Terézia , Gabrišová Ľudmila , Kotora Peter , Peciar Peter , Gahurová Dominika , Slaninová Miroslava
Published: May 2018

At the present time, a great attention is being paid to the use of algae. Algae can adapt to different conditions and can produce substances corresponding to responsible environments. The main problem in their cultivation is the design of a suitable photoreactor. It should create the optimal conditions for their growth, which is mainly dependent on the contact of the algae with the light. The intensity of the light depends on the hydrodynamic conditions in the photoreactor and on its geometry. This paper deals with the study of kinetics of growth and gross biomass yield of biomass in laboratory photobioreactors, respecting their geometrical similarity as a basis for a possible scale-up. An optimal ratio between biomass growth rate and its gross biomass yield as a function of the photoreactor geometry is searched. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii were used as the model organism.
QUASI-EXACTLY SOLVABLE SCHRÖDINGER EQUATIONS, SYMMETRIC POLYNOMIALS AND FUNCTIONAL BETHE ANSATZ METHOD
Authors: Quesne Christiane
Published: May 2018

For applications to quasi-exactly solvable Schrödinger equations in quantum mechanics, we consider the general conditions that have to be satisfied by the coefficients of a second-order differential equation with at most k + 1 singular points in order that this equation has particular solutions that are nth-degree polynomials. In a first approach, we show that such conditions involve k - 2 integration constants, which satisfy a system of linear equations whose coefficients can be written in terms of elementary symmetric polynomials in the polynomial solution roots whenver such roots are all real and distinct. In a second approach, we consider the functional Bethe ansatz method in its most general form under the same assumption. Comparing the two approaches, we prove that the above-mentioned k - 2 integration constants can be expressed as linear combinations of monomial symmetric polynomials in the roots, associated with partitions into no more than two parts. We illustrate these results by considering a quasi-exactly solvable extension of the Mathews-Lakshmanan nonlinear oscillator corresponding to k = 4.
CHIMNEY RESERVOIRS: UNIQUE TECHNICAL STRUCTURES FROM THE FIRST HALF OF THE 20TH CENTURY IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Vonka Martin , Kořínek Robert
Published: May 2018

In the past, various methods and technological systems were used to supply water on industrial and other sites. In the early 19th century, Professor Otto Intze invented a new form of water reservoir that could be installed in a tower tank or even on the body of a chimney. This gave rise to a structure that had never been seen before – a chimney reservoir. The advantages of this structure resulted in it quickly becoming very popular, especially in the country in which it originated, Germany. The structure spread from the German Empire into other countries, including Austria-Hungary. The first chimney reservoir on the Czech territory originated in the late 19th century, the last structure of this type was built in 1962. Although their history was short, more than sixty distinctive structures of this kind were built in the Czech lands, the twenty-one of which that have survived to the present day can be described as a unique industrial heritage. This article outlines the origin and evolution of different types of chimney reservoirs and describes the structural and technological designs used for such structures on the territory of what is now known as the Czech Republic.
Cooperation Between The Republic Of Serbia And European Union In The Period Of Opening Negotiations On Accession
Authors: Gavrilović Maja , Jocić Dragana Radenković
Published: May 2018

The negotiation act between Serbia and the European Union began on the basis of Article 49 of the EU Contract. The act and development of negotiations will be led by Serbia’s progress in the accession preparation, especially within the frame of economic and social convergence. The progress will be measured especially in meeting the Copenhagen criteria, as well as the requirements defined by the Stabilization and Association Agreement. Also, the accession implies accepting the institutional framework of the Union, known as acquis. Acquis special importance for Serbia as a candidate country have regarding economic issues and its jurisdiction. In this sense, it is of great importance to have an overview of facts presented in the paper, which relate to certain economic categories, primarily the movement of Gross domestic product and rate of (un)employment, as well as the steps that Serbia took on their way to the Union.
Optical characteristics of Douglas fir at various densities, grain directions and thicknesses investigated by near-infrared spatially resolved spectroscopy (NIR-SRS)
Authors: Ma Te , Schajer Gary , Inagaki Tetsuya , Pirouz Zarin , Tsuchikawa Satoru
Published: May 2018

A near-infrared spatially resolved spectroscopy (NIR-SRS) system, also called the hyperspectral imaging system, was applied in a line scanning model combined with a concentrated halogen light source (Ø 1 mm), and spatially resolved reflectance images of Douglas fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco] wood were obtained. The samples with various densities, grain directions and thicknesses were observed in the NIR range of 1000–1600 nm. Then, a nonlinear curve-fitting algorithm was applied based on the steady-state diffusion theory model to estimate the absorption coefficient (μa
), and reduced scattering coefficients (

μ
′

s

${\mu '_s}$

) both parallel and perpendicular to the grain direction at each measurement position. The absorption scattering coefficients at 1457 nm and two kinds of reduced scattering coefficients at 1002 nm were highly correlated with wood densities measured by an X-ray densitometer. The correlation coefficients were 0.953 and 0.987 for 3 mm and 5 mm samples, respectively, while three optical profiles were combined. It can be concluded that NIR-SRS is a fast and simple method for measuring the optical characteristics of softwood, although it has a non-homogeneous cellular structure. Sub-surface density and grain direction could be predicted with satisfactory accuracy based on a few key wavelengths without relying on multivariate statistical analysis.