bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late stage definitive endodermal differentiation can be defined by Daf1 expression
Authors: Ogaki Soichiro , Omori Hisayoshi , Morooka Mayu , Shiraki Nobuaki , Ishida Seiichi , Kume Shoen
Published: May 2016

Background

Definitive endoderm (DE) gives rise to the respiratory apparatus and digestive tract. Sox17 and Cxcr4 are useful markers of the DE. Previously, we identified a novel DE marker, Decay accelerating factor 1(Daf1/CD55), by identifying DE specific genes from the expression profile of DE derived from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) by microarray analysis, and in situ hybridization of early embryos. Daf1 is expressed in a subpopulation of E-cadherin + Cxcr4+ DE cells. The characteristics of the Daf1-expressing cells during DE differentiation has not been examined.

Results

In this report, we utilized the ESC differentiation system to examine the characteristics of Daf1-expressing DE cells. We found that Daf1 expression could discriminate late DE from early DE. Early DE cells are Daf1-negative (DE-) and late DE cells are Daf1-positive (DE+). We also found that Daf1+ late DE cells show low proliferative and low cell matrix adhesive characteristics. Furthermore, the purified SOX17low early DE cells gave rise to Daf1+ Sox17high late DE cells.

Conclusion

Daf1-expressing late definitive endoderm proliferates slowly and show low adhesive capacity.
A multi-technique approach, based on mobile/portable laser instruments, for the in situ pigment characterization of stone sculptures on the island of Crete dating from Venetian and Ottoman period
Authors: Papliaka Zoi Eirini , Philippidis Aggelos , Siozos Panayiotis , Vakondiou Maria , Melessanaki Kristalia , Anglos Demetrios
Published: June 2016

A versatile analytical methodology is presented, that combines the application of two mobile laser-based analytical techniques, Raman microscopy and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), for the analysis of materials in historical and archaeological objects and monuments. In the present study, the proposed methodology was employed in the context of analytical campaigns aiming to investigate paint materials used on the island of Crete during the Venetian and Ottoman periods, thirteenth to nineteenth century CE. The first series of campaigns were conducted at the Historical Museum of Crete, Heraklion, Greece, and provided for the first time compositional data concerning the pigment palette used for painting Ottoman sculpture in Crete. In the second series, campaigns were performed outdoors for studying pigments in the sculptured door frames of two small medieval churches situated at rural locations in the greater Heraklion area. Raman and LIBS analyses gather complementary compositional data, molecular and elemental respectively, which, taken jointly, enable, in most cases, identification of pigments and accessory materials in paint layers, providing also stratigraphic information. With both instruments, measurements are performed directly on the surface of the objects or monuments, with no need for any sampling or sample preparation and thus analytical studies can be conducted rapidly and routinely in the context of a museum setting, a conservation laboratory or even outdoors. A standardized procedure that facilitates data collection and interpretation, interdisciplinary cooperation and presentation of results is adopted that optimizes the overall efficiency of the analytical campaigns.
Improved Student Learning through a Faculty Learning Community: How Faculty Collaboration Transformed a Large-Enrollment Course from Lecture to Student Centered
Authors: Elliott Emily R. , Reason Robert D. , Coffman Clark R. , Gangloff Eric J. , Raker Jeffrey R. , Powell-Coffman Jo Anne , Ogilvie Craig A.
Published: June 2016

Undergraduate introductory biology courses are changing based on our growing understanding of how students learn and rapid scientific advancement in the biological sciences. At Iowa State University, faculty instructors are transforming a second-semester large-enrollment introductory biology course to include active learning within the lecture setting. To support this change, we set up a faculty learning community (FLC) in which instructors develop new pedagogies, adapt active-learning strategies to large courses, discuss challenges and progress, critique and revise classroom interventions, and share materials. We present data on how the collaborative work of the FLC led to increased implementation of active-learning strategies and a concurrent improvement in student learning. Interestingly, student learning gains correlate with the percentage of classroom time spent in active-learning modes. Furthermore, student attitudes toward learning biology are weakly positively correlated with these learning gains. At our institution, the FLC framework serves as an agent of iterative emergent change, resulting in the creation of a more student-centered course that better supports learning.
Reverse time imaging of ground-penetrating radar and SH-seismic data including the effects of wave loss
Authors: Zhu Tieyuan , Carcione José M. , Botelho Marco A. B.
Published: June 2016

The presence of wave loss (velocity dispersion and attenuation in lossy media) degrades the resolution of migrated images by distorting the phase and amplitude of the signal. These effects have to be mitigated to improve resolution. We have developed a technique to perform reverse time migration of ground-penetrating radar and SH-seismic data in lossy media, suitable for engineering and seismic applications. The method is based on the solution of the transverse magnetic (TM) Maxwell equation, which in view of the acoustic-electromagnetic analogy, is mathematically equivalent to the SH-wave equation, where attenuation is described by the Maxwell mechanical model. Attenuation compensation is performed by reversing the sign of the diffusion term (first-order time derivative). In this manner, the TM equation has the same wave-velocity dependence with frequency (same velocity-dispersion behavior) but opposite attenuation, i.e., compensating for attenuation effects when back propagating. We have solved the equations numerically with a direct grid method by using the Fourier pseudospectral operator for computing the spatial derivatives, and we used an explicit staggered second-order finite-difference approximation for computing the time derivative. Four applications illustrated the potential of the algorithm. The migrated image by correcting for attenuation loss is able to improve the illumination of the target reflectors. This migration is found to be particularly useful to balance the overall image amplitude by illuminating shadow zones. Under the assumption of low-loss media (e.g., [Formula: see text]) and thicknesses comparable with or smaller than the skin depth, the attenuation-compensated migration is stable.
Effect of chemical diagenesis on pore pressure in argillaceous sediment
Authors: Dutta Nader C.
Published: May 2016

I present a model of pore pressure for argillaceous sediment that integrates the well-known undercompaction mechanism with the lesser-known chemical diagenesis mechanism. The model is based on a generalized compaction model, first-order chemical rate theory and Arrhenius rate equation, and a simple thermal-history model. The parameters of this model (activation energy, E, and the pre-exponential factor, A) are obtained from published X-ray diffraction data. I also present models for bulk density and velocity of sediment that are guided by rock-physics principles. I also discuss the relation between the current model and the Bowers model, which noted the importance of the thermal mechanisms in the context of pore-pressure prediction.
Cardiac Tissue Injury and Remodeling Is Dependent Upon MR Regulation of Activation Pathways in Cardiac Tissue Macrophages
Authors: Shen Jimmy Z. , Morgan James , Tesch Greg H. , Rickard Amanda J. , Chrissobolis Sophocles , Drummond Grant R. , Fuller Peter J. , Young Morag J.
Published: June 2016

Macrophage mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) signaling is an important mediator of cardiac tissue inflammation and fibrosis. The goal of the present study was to determine the cellular mechanisms of MR signaling in macrophages that promote cardiac tissue injury and remodeling. We sought to identify specific markers of MR signaling in isolated tissue macrophages (cardiac, aortic) vs splenic mononuclear cells from wild-type and myeloid MR-null mice given vehicle/salt or deoxycorticosterone (DOC)/salt for 8 weeks. Cardiac tissue fibrosis in response to 8 weeks of DOC/salt treatment was found in the hearts from wild-type but not myeloid MR-null mice. This was associated with an increased expression of the profibrotic markers TGF-β1 and matrix metalloproteinase-12 and type 1 inflammatory markers TNFα and chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand-9 in cardiac macrophages. Differential expression of immunomodulatory M2-like markers (eg, arginase-1, macrophage scavenger receptor 1) was dependent on the tissue location of wild-type and MR-null macrophages. Finally, intact MR signaling is required for the phosphorylation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase in response to a proinflammatory stimulus in bone marrow monocytes/macrophages in culture. These data suggest that the activation of the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase pathway in macrophages after a tissue injury and inflammatory stimuli in the DOC/salt model is MR dependent and regulates the transcription of downstream profibrotic factors, which may represent potential therapeutic targets in heart failure patients.
Morphology, Biochemistry, and Pathophysiology of MENX-Related Pheochromocytoma Recapitulate the Clinical Features
Authors: Wiedemann Tobias , Peitzsch Mirko , Qin Nan , Neff Frauke , Ehrhart-Bornstein Monika , Eisenhofer Graeme , Pellegata Natalia S.
Published: June 2016

Pheochromocytomas (PCCs) are tumors arising from neural crest-derived chromaffin cells. There are currently few animal models of PCC that recapitulate the key features of human tumors. Because such models may be useful for investigations of molecular pathomechanisms and development of novel therapeutic interventions, we characterized a spontaneous animal model (multiple endocrine neoplasia [MENX] rats) that develops endogenous PCCs with complete penetrance. Urine was longitudinally collected from wild-type (wt) and MENX-affected (mutant) rats and outputs of catecholamines and their O-methylated metabolites determined by mass spectrometry. Adrenal catecholamine contents, cellular ultrastructure, and expression of phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase, which converts norepinephrine to epinephrine, were also determined in wt and mutant rats. Blood pressure was longitudinally measured and end-organ pathology assessed. Compared with wt rats, mutant animals showed age-dependent increases in urinary outputs of norepinephrine (P = .0079) and normetanephrine (P = .0014) that correlated in time with development of tumor nodules, increases in blood pressure, and development of hypertension-related end-organ pathology. Development of tumor nodules, which lacked expression of N-methyltransferase, occurred on a background of adrenal medullary morphological and biochemical changes occurring as early as 1 month of age and involving increased adrenal medullary concentrations of dense cored vesicles, tissue contents of both norepinephrine and epinephrine, and urinary outputs of metanephrine, the metabolite of epinephrine. Taken together, MENX-affected rats share several biochemical and pathophysiological features with PCC patients. This model thus provides a suitable platform to study the pathogenesis of PCC for preclinical translational studies aimed at the development of novel therapies for aggressive forms of human tumors.
MCT8 Deficiency in Male Mice Mitigates the Phenotypic Abnormalities Associated With the Absence of a Functional Type 3 Deiodinase
Authors: Stohn J. Patrizia , Martinez M. Elena , Matoin Kassey , Morte Beatriz , Bernal Juan , Galton Valerie Anne , St. Germain Donald , Hernandez Arturo
Published: June 2016

Mice deficient in the type 3 deiodinase (D3KO mice) manifest impaired clearance of thyroid hormone (TH), leading to elevated levels of TH action during development. This alteration causes reduced neonatal viability, growth retardation, and central hypothyroidism. Here we examined how these phenotypes are affected by a deficiency in the monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8), which is a major contributor to the transport of the active thyroid hormone, T3, into the cell. MCT8 deficiency eliminated the neonatal lethality of type 3 deiodinase (D3)-deficient mice and significantly ameliorated their growth retardation. Double-mutant newborn mice exhibited similar peripheral thyrotoxicosis and increased brain expression of T3-dependent genes as mice with D3 deficiency only. Later in neonatal life and adulthood, double-mutant mice manifested central and peripheral TH status similar to mice with single MCT8 deficiency, with low serum T4, elevated serum TSH and T3, and decreased T3-dependent gene expression in the hypothalamus. In double-mutant adult mice, both thyroid gland size and the hypothyroidism-induced rise in TSH were greater than those in mice with single D3 deficiency but less than those in mice with MCT8 deficiency alone. Our results demonstrate that the marked phenotypic abnormalities observed in the D3-deficient mouse, including perinatal mortality, growth retardation, and central hypothyroidism in adult animals, require expression of MCT8, confirming the interdependent relationship between the TH transport into cells and the deiodination processes.
Evidence for Ligand-Independent Activation of Hippocampal Estrogen Receptor-α by IGF-1 in Hippocampus of Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Grissom Elin M. , Daniel Jill M.
Published: June 2016

In the absence of ovarian estrogens, increased levels of estrogen receptor (ER)α in the hippocampus are associated with improvements in cognition. In vitro evidence indicates that under conditions of low estrogen, growth factors, including Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), can activate ERα and regulate ERα-mediated transcription through mechanisms that likely involve modification of phosphorylation sites on the receptor. The goal of the current work was to investigate a role for IGF-1 in ligand-independent activation of ERα in the hippocampus of female rats. Ovariectomized rats received a single intracerebroventricular infusion of IGF-1 and hippocampi were collected 1 or 24 hours later. After 1 h, IGF-1 increased hippocampal levels of phosphorylated ERα at serine 118 (S118) as revealed by Western blotting. Coimmunoprecipitation revealed that at 1 hour after infusion, IGF-1 increased association between ERα and steroid receptor coactivator 1, a histone acetyltransferase that increases transcriptional activity of phosphorylated ERα. IGF-1 infusion increased levels of the ERα-regulated proteins ERα, choline acetyltransferase, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the hippocampus 24 hours after infusion. Results indicate that IGF-1 activates ERα in ligand-independent manner in the hippocampus via phosphorylation at S118 resulting in increased association of ERα with steroid receptor coactivator 1 and elevation of ER-regulated proteins. To our knowledge, these data are the first in vivo evidence of ligand-independent actions of ERα and provide a mechanism by which ERα can impact memory in the absence of ovarian estrogens.
mTORC1 Signaling Contributes to Drinking But Not Blood Pressure Responses to Brain Angiotensin II
Authors: Muta Kenjiro , Morgan Donald A. , Grobe Justin L. , Sigmund Curt D. , Rahmouni Kamal
Published: June 2016

Mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) is a molecular node that couples extracellular cues to a wide range of cellular events controlling various physiological processes. Here, we identified mTORC1 signaling as a critical mediator of angiotensin II (Ang II) action in the brain. In neuronal GT1–7 cells, we show that Ang II stimulates neuronal mTORC1 signaling in an Ang II type 1 receptor-dependent manner. In mice, a single intracerebroventricular (ICV) injection or chronic sc infusion of Ang II activated mTORC1 signaling in the subfornical organ, a critical brain region in cardiovascular control and fluid balance. Moreover, transgenic sRA mice with brain-specific overproduction of Ang II displayed increased mTORC1 signaling in the subfornical organ. To test the functional role of brain mTORC1 in mediating the action of Ang II, we examined the consequence of mTORC1 inhibition with rapamycin on Ang II-induced increase in water intake and arterial pressure. ICV pretreatment with rapamycin blocked ICV Ang II-mediated increases in the frequency, duration, and amount of water intake but did not interfere with the pressor response evoked by Ang II. In addition, ICV delivery of rapamycin significantly reduced polydipsia, but not hypertension, of sRA mice. These results demonstrate that mTORC1 is a novel downstream pathway of Ang II type 1 receptor signaling in the brain and selectively mediates the effect of Ang II on drinking behavior.
Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine Guidelines on Preoperative Screening and Assessment of Adult Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Chung Frances , Memtsoudis Stavros G. , Ramachandran Satya Krishna , Nagappa Mahesh , Opperer Mathias , Cozowicz Crispiana , Patrawala Sara , Lam David , Kumar Anjana , Joshi Girish P. , Fleetham John , Ayas Najib , Collop Nancy , Doufas Anthony G. , Eikermann Matthias , Englesakis Marina , Gali Bhargavi , Gay Peter , Hernandez Adrian V. , Kaw Roop , Kezirian Eric J. , Malhotra Atul , Mokhlesi Babak , Parthasarathy Sairam , Stierer Tracey , Wappler Frank , Hillman David R. , Auckley Dennis
Published: June 2016

The purpose of the Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine guideline on preoperative screening and assessment of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is to present recommendations based on the available clinical evidence on the topic where possible. As very few well-performed randomized studies in this field of perioperative care are available, most of the recommendations were developed by experts in the field through consensus processes involving utilization of evidence grading to indicate the level of evidence upon which recommendations were based. This guideline may not be appropriate for all clinical situations and all patients. The decision whether to follow these recommendations must be made by a responsible physician on an individual basis. Protocols should be developed by individual institutions taking into account the patients’ conditions, extent of interventions and available resources. This practice guideline is not intended to define standards of care or represent absolute requirements for patient care. The adherence to these guidelines cannot in any way guarantee successful outcomes and is rather meant to help individuals and institutions formulate plans to better deal with the challenges posed by perioperative patients with OSA. These recommendations reflect the current state of knowledge and its interpretation by a group of experts in the field at the time of publication. While these guidelines will be periodically updated, new information that becomes available between updates should be taken into account. Deviations in practice from guidelines may be justifiable and such deviations should not be interpreted as a basis for claims of negligence.
Blister Aneurysms of the Internal Carotid Artery: Microsurgical Results and Management Strategy
Authors: Owen Christopher M. , Montemurro Nicola , Lawton Michael T.
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND: Blister aneurysms of the supraclinoid internal carotid artery (ICA) are challenging lesions with high intraoperative rupture rates and significant morbidity. An optimal treatment strategy for these aneurysms has not been established.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze treatment strategy, operative techniques, and outcomes in a consecutive 17-year series of ICA blister aneurysms treated microsurgically.

METHODS: Seventeen patients underwent blister aneurysm treatment with direct clipping, bypass and trapping, or clip-reinforced wrapping.

RESULTS: Twelve aneurysms (71%) were treated with direct surgical clipping. Three patients required bypass: 1 superficial temporal artery to middle cerebral artery bypass, 1 external carotid artery to middle cerebral artery bypass, and 1 ICA to middle cerebral artery bypass. One patient was treated with clip-reinforced wrapping. Initial treatment strategy was enacted 71% of the time. Intraoperative rupture occurred in 7 patients (41%), doubling the rate of a poor outcome (57% vs 30% for patients with and without intraoperative rupture, respectively). Severe vasospasm developed in 9 of 16 patients (56%). Twelve patients (65%) were improved or unchanged after treatment, and 10 patients (59%) had good outcomes (modified Rankin Scale scores of 1 or 2).

CONCLUSION: ICA blister aneurysms can be cautiously explored and treated with direct clipping as the first-line technique in the majority of cases. Complete trapping of the parent artery with temporary clips and placing permanent clip blades along normal arterial walls enables clipping that avoids intraoperative aneurysm rupture. Trapping/bypass is used as the second-line treatment, maintaining a low threshold for bypass with extensive or friable pathology of the carotid wall and in patients with incomplete circles of Willis.
Effects of high temperatures on threatened estuarine fishes during periods of extreme drought
Authors: Jeffries Ken M. , Connon Richard E. , Davis Brittany E. , Komoroske Lisa M. , Britton Monica T. , Sommer Ted , Todgham Anne E. , Fangue Nann A.
Published: June 2016

Climate change and associated increases in water temperatures may impact physiological performance in ectotherms and exacerbate endangered species declines. We used an integrative approach to assess the impact of elevated water temperature on two fishes of immediate conservation concern in a large estuary system, the threatened longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) and endangered delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus). Abundances have reached record lows in California, USA, and these populations are at imminent risk of extirpation. California is currently impacted by a severe drought, resulting in high water temperatures, conditions that will become more common as a result of climate change. We exposed fish to environmentally relevant temperatures (14°C and 20°C) and used RNA sequencing to examine the transcriptome-wide responses to elevated water temperature in both species. Consistent with having a lower temperature tolerance, longfin smelt exhibited a pronounced cellular stress response, with an upregulation of heat shock proteins, after exposure to 20°C that was not observed in delta smelt. We detected an increase in metabolic rate in delta smelt at 20°C and increased expression of genes involved in metabolic processes and protein synthesis, patterns not observed in longfin smelt. Through examination of responses across multiple levels of biological organization, and by linking these responses to habitat distributions in the wild, we demonstrate that longfin smelt may be more susceptible than delta smelt to increases in temperatures, and they have little room to tolerate future warming in California. Understanding the species-specific physiological responses of sensitive species to environmental stressors is crucial for conservation efforts and managing aquatic systems globally.
Technique and outcome of post-mastectomy adjuvant chest wall radiotherapy—the role of tissue-equivalent bolus in reducing risk of local recurrence
Authors: Turner Jennifer Y , Zeniou Anthi , Williams Amanda , Jyothirmayi Rema
Published: June 2016

Objective:

Adjuvant chest wall radiotherapy is used in patients with high-risk histological features post-mastectomy to reduce the risk of locoregional recurrence. Treatment can be given with or without a tissue-equivalent bolus to increase skin surface dose. The additional benefit of using a bolus remains unclear; however, it is known to be associated with a higher incidence of skin toxicity. This study compared chest wall recurrence and skin toxicity in patients treated with and without a bolus.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study reviewed 314 consecutive patients who received chest wall radiotherapy between 2005 and 2010. Data were collected on histological, demographic and treatment parameters and on the incidence and grade of acute skin reactions. Treatment outcomes analyzed included chest wall recurrence, disease-free survival and overall survival (OS).

Results:

101 patients received treatment with a bolus; 213 patients received treatment without a bolus. A significantly higher incidence of acute skin toxicity was seen in the bolus treatment group (p = 0.002). One patient treated with a bolus developed chest wall recurrence compared with four patients treated without a bolus. No statistically significant difference could be shown between the two groups. 66 (21%) patients had metastatic relapse. Median time to relapse was 29.5 months and OS was 76% in both treatment groups.

Conclusion:

No statistically significant difference in chest wall recurrence can be demonstrated between patients treated with and without a bolus.

Advances in knowledge:

This study is consistent with limited previous literature and invites further evaluation of the role of a bolus in post-mastectomy chest wall radiotherapy, especially considering the increased toxicity that the use of a bolus generates.
Repairable Stocking and Expediting in a Fluctuating Demand Environment: Optimal Policy and Heuristics
Authors: Arts Joachim , Basten Rob , Van Houtum Geert-Jan
Published: June 2016

We consider a single stock-point for a repairable item facing Markov modulated Poisson demand. Repair of failed parts may be expedited at an additional cost to receive a shorter lead time. Demand that cannot be filled immediately is backordered and penalized. The manager decides on the number of spare repairables to purchase and on the expediting policy. We characterize the optimal expediting policy using a Markov decision process formulation and provide closed-form necessary and sufficient conditions that determine whether the optimal policy is a type of threshold policy or a no-expediting policy. We derive further asymptotic results as demand fluctuates arbitrarily slowly. In this regime, the cost of this system can be written as a weighted average of costs for systems facing Poisson demand. These asymptotics are leveraged to show that approximating Markov modulated Poisson demand by stationary Poisson demand can lead to arbitrarily poor results. We propose two heuristics based on our analytical results, and numerical tests show good performance with average optimality gaps of 0.11% and 0.33% respectively. Naive heuristics that ignore demand fluctuations have average optimality gaps of more than 11%. This shows that there is great value in leveraging knowledge about demand fluctuations in making repairable expediting and stocking decisions.
Admission screening for active tuberculosis: A verbal screening project in an acute setting
Authors: de Burgh Jane , Abiona Stella , Jamie Komeh Mohammed , Cotton Louise , Perkins Sam
Published: May 2016

People who attend mental health services have more risk factors for tuberculosis (TB) than the general population. Currently, TB-specific screening is not part of the admission process in mental health services in South East London, an area with particularly high TB prevalence. The authors evaluated the effectiveness of verbal screening in identifying clients in an acute setting who may have active disease.
Recent publications on the therapeutic conversation
Authors: Koch Hugh
Published: May 2016

Psychological therapy techniques and issues are discussed, in the context of four recent publications on therapeutic conversation. The importance of effective communication skills and awareness of the interview environment is stressed
Smoking cessation and healthy weight management
Authors: Nugent Simon , Duckworth Isobel
Published: May 2016

People with mental illness die up to 25 years earlier than the general population commonly as the result of non-communicable diseases, such as cancers, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease. The aetiology of these diseases is often associated with smoking and being overweight. This article reviews how nurses working in mental health services can support their patients to address these often neglected physical health issues. As part of a placement with a public health team, the first author reviewed available literature on smoking and weight management relating to people with mental illness. In addition, interviews about physical health inequalities were held with a local mental health service provider, and local smoking cessation and weight management services. Nurses are in an ideal position to motivate patients to tackle their physical health problems through effectively implemented smoking cessation and weight management interventions. These should be tailored for individual needs and be provided for patients in both community and hospital settings. Two good practice guides have also been developed to support nurses help their patients address smoking and unhealthy weight.
Technical pros and cons
Authors: Gouldsboro Julia
Published: May 2016

We live in a world that is ever more dependent on technology, and we must accept that the children we teach are growing up with increasing technical experience, but its use should always be in context.
Don't lose your marbles
Authors: Harries Judith
Published: May 2016

The fifth article in a series that will explore traditional games takes a look at a game that is almost as old as time itself, one played in Ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire, it is a playground favourite – Marbles!
El mundo rural ante la desamortización general. Los modelos de la España interior (Ciudad Real, 1855-1910)
Authors: Del Valle Calzado Ángel Ramón
Published: May 2016

Este estudio expone parte de los resultados de una investigación sobre la Desamortización General en la provincia de Ciudad Real, en la que las ventas alcanzaron un volumen considerable y, por lo tanto, tuvieron un impacto significativo. Se fundamenta en la consulta de un amplio abanico de fuentes (expedientes de subastas, protocolos, boletines de venta, libros de hacienda, censos electorales…) y en una metodología que intenta equilibrar los aspectos puramente cuantitativos con los cualitativos, siempre bajo la necesaria premisa de la construcción de modelos teóricos en base a comparativas con lo sucedido tanto a nivel regional como nacional. Se persigue principalmente revelar qué grupos sociales adquirieron bienes, valorar las transformaciones sociales que ello supuso y evaluar la participación del mundo rural, especialmente de aquellos sectores vinculados a la tierra, en la desamortización. Y todo ello con dos objetivos: establecer un modelo encuadrado en la España interior y evaluar el papel de la desamortización en el proceso de formación de las élites agrarias en la España del siglo xix y en la posible vinculación entre desamortización y caciquismo. En todo caso se debe subrayar que el resultado de nuestra investigación establece un modelo peculiar, incluso dentro del contexto geográfico regional, que permiten superar visiones e interpretaciones clásicas.
Otxarkoaga, un caso de Poblado Dirigido en Bilbao. De la chabola a la marginación urbana en el desarrollismo franquista
Authors: López Simón Iñigo
Published: May 2016

Otxarkoaga ha sido uno de los barrios más castigados de Bilbao desde su creación hasta el día de hoy. La pobreza, la marginalidad, el abandono institucional y las deficiencias estructurales han sido parte del día a día del barrio desde su construcción en la década de los 60 del pasado siglo. A pesar de esta realidad, la construcción del barrio fue utilizada como una símbolo del avance económico y social que vivía España durante la época desarrollista. Frente a un país donde se estaba dando un afianzamiento de la clase media y de la sociedad de consumo, encontramos barrios nuevos como Otxarkoaga, en los que se busca el alojamiento masivo de la mano de obra sin cualificar y que muestran evidente deficiencias urbanísticas. El objetivo del presente texto es dilucidar las causas de la condición marginal del barrio en los diversos aspectos referidos a su origen histórico.
Pragmática de la desinformación. Un estudio del leak de Prism a través de las reacciones de los gobiernos de Estados Unidos, Alemania y Venezuela
Authors: Romero-Rodríguez Luis M. , López-Muñoz Manuel
Published: May 2016

En este trabajo se exponen las técnicas de desinformación más comunes que se evidencian en el leak sobre el proyecto Prism de la NSA y sus inmediatas reacciones por parte de los gobiernos de Estados Unidos, Alemania y Venezuela. Para lograr este objetivo, se ha realizado un análisis cualitativo de base interpretativa al discurso de los mandatarios de los tres países, a través de las informaciones recogidas en medios digitales, mediante la localización, criba especializada, métodos de criterio de fuentes y selección aleatoria por metodología de semana construida. Los resultados evidencian el uso de al menos 11 estratagemas de desinformación.
Religious Leaders And Peace Building: The Role of Tuan Guru and Pedanda in Conflict Resolution in Lombok – Indonesia
Authors: Suprapto S
Published: June 2016

In some situations where the state is too weak to gain trust from the people, religious leaders have a significant role in maintaining social harmony. In many cases of the social unrest as what happened in Lombok, Tuan Guru and Pedanda played important roles in building a peaceful condition. Tuan Guru and Pedanda with their authorities have vital influences in calming down their Muslim and Hindu communities respectively. With their own ways, they were able to localize conflict issues, so much so that the social conflicts did not escalate to become greater massive riot. This article describes a number of efforts made by Tuan Guru and Pedanda  to establish peace in Lombok, such as: calming down the followers; localizing issue to reduce mass panic; reminding members of the family or community to resist social prejudice; socializing religious teachings especially the need to forge harmony; promoting “Semeton Sasak and Batur Bali” as a value of brotherhood among Balinese-Hindu and Sasaknese-Muslim; creating social sanctions against those who violated the agreements among communities; and improving the effectiveness of customary law known as awik-awik.[Pemimpin atau tokoh agama memiliki peran signifikan dalam merawat harmoni social, terutama di saat negara kurang memperoleh kepercayaan dari rakyat. Dalam sejumlah kasus kerusuhan social yang terjadi Lombok, Tuan Guru dan Pedanda memainkan peran penting dalam menciptakan kedamaian. Dengan otoritas mereka, Tuan Guru dan Pedanda mampu menenangkan massa. Dengan caranya sendiri, mereka mampu melokalisasi isu, sehingga eskalasi konflik tidak meluas menjadi kerusuhan yang massif. Artikel ini mendeskripsikan sejumlah upaya yang dikembangkan oleh Tuan Guru dan Pedanda dalam rangka bina damai di Lombok, seperti menenangkan jamaah; melokalisasi isu konflik agar massa tidak panic; mengingatkan keluraga atau anggota komunitas untuk menahan diri; mensosialisasikan nilai-nilai harmoni dalam agama, mempromosikan konsep “Semeton Sasak and Batur Bali” sebagai sebuah nilai persaudaraan antara orang Hindu-Bali dan Sasak-Muslim; menciptakan sanksi sosial bagi mereka yang melanggar kesepakatan bersama; dan meningkatkan efektifitas hukum adat yang dikenal dengan sebutan awik-awik.]
Chronic Eosinophilic Pneumonia with Subpleural Curvilinear Shadow
Authors: Kagohashi Katsunori , Ohara Gen , Kurishima Koichi , Kawaguchi Mio , Nakayama Hidetsugu , Ishikawa Hiroichi , Satoh Hiroaki
Published: May 2016

We report a rare case of chronic eosinophilic pneumonia with subpleural curvilinear shadow. CT scan showed a patchy consolidation in the bilateral upper lungs. In addition, subpleural curvilinear shadow was found in the bilateral upper lungs. A bronchoalveolar lavage obtained from the right middle lobe showed 25 % eosinophils. Although very rare, we should therefore keep in mind that patients, who have patchy consolidation with areas of subpleural curvilinear shadow in the bilateral upper lungs, may have chronic eosinophilic pneumonia.
An intercultural analysis of the use of hedging by Chinese and Anglophone academic English writers
Authors: Chen Chenghui , Jun Zhang Lawrence
Published: June 2016

Due to the dominance of English as the international language of scientific communication, second language (L2) academic writers with different first languages (L1s) need to enhance their L2 pragmatic competence and make rhetorical and stylistic accommodations to publish their academic work in English-medium journals. Hedging strategies, among other things, are one of the important indicators of L2 pragmatic competence in academic writing. With Crompton’s taxonomy of hedges as the conceptual framework and by referring to the interview findings, we built two purpose-driven corpora and analysed the use of the hedging devices in the conclusion section of applied linguistics research articles written in English by Chinese and Anglophone scholars from intercultural perspectives. We attempted to answer an overarching question: “To what extent did the two groups of academic writers differ in hedging?” Results indicate that: 1) overall, Anglophone academic English writers used more hedges than their Chinese counterparts; 2) Chinese and Anglophone writers did not show statistically significant differences in the frequency of using most of the categories of hedges except for only one subcategory (namely, the “I/we+non-factive verb” structure); 3) both groups showed a similar pattern in the choice of various categories of hedges; 4) there were differences in linguistic expressions between the two groups in the use of hedging. These results are discussed in relation to intercultural rhetoric and L2 academic writer pragmatic competence.
Gasoline and Diesel Tax Incidence: The 2003 Washington State Nickel Funding Package
Authors: Silvia Louis , Taylor Christopher T.
Published: June 2016

This paper considers a previously unexamined increase in excise taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel that were part of Washington State’s Nickel Funding Package of 2003. We fail to reject full pass-through of the amount of the tax increase to retail prices in both products. We find no significant sensitivity of retail pass-through to station locations relative to state borders or to retail competitive conditions as measured by local station density. The expansion of hypermarkets in Washington State during the period was a confounding factor in estimating tax pass-through effects.
Solid lipid nanoparticles encapsulating a fluorescent marker (coumarin 6) and antimalarials – artemether and lumefantrine: evaluation of cellular uptake and antimalarial activity
Authors: Attama Anthony A. , Kenechukwu Franklin C. , Onuigbo Ebele B. , Nnamani Petra O. , Obitte Nicholas , Finke Jahn H. , Pretor Sascha , Müller-Goymann Christel C.
Published: June 2016

Artemisinins, the mainstay in the treatment of malaria today, are used in combination with other antimalarials to forestall resistance, as artemisinin-combination therapies. In line with the World Health Organization’s recommendation in that respect, solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) were formulated to encapsulate two antimalarial drugs — artemether and lumefantrine. The nanoparticles were evaluated for size and solid state properties. Caco-2 cells were used to investigate the ability of the SLN to deliver its payload at the absorptive interface of the gastrointestinal tract. Mice heart endothelial cells (MHEC) were also used as marker cells to assess cellular uptake of coumarin 6 from the SLN with imaging by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CSLM). In vivo antimalarial activity was done using a standard suppressive protocol. The results of this study revealed different crystal properties for artemether and lumefantrine, which affected their solubility in the lipid matrix and thus, loading in the lipid nanoparticles. The particles of the SLN were within the range of 150 nm–500 nm with varied polydispersity indices. Wide angle X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the presence of particles of solid nature. Cellular uptake studies indicated uptake of coumarin 6 from the coumarin 6-labeled SLN. In vivo antimalarial studies indicated high clearance of parasitemia with minimal effect on hematological parameters tested.
Radio-nanomaterials for biomedical applications: state of the art
Authors: Lu Weifei , Hong Hao , Cai Weibo
Published: June 2016

The incorporation of radioactive isotope(s) into conventional nanomaterials can bring extra properties which are not possessed by original materials. The resulting radioactive nanomaterials (radio-nanomaterials), with added physical/chemical properties, can be used as important tools for different biomedical applications. In this review, our goal is to provide an up-to-date overview on these applications using radio-nanomaterials. The first section illustrates the utilization of radio-nanomaterials for understanding of in vivo kinetics of their parent nanomaterials. In the second section, we focus on two primary applications of radio-nanomaterials: imaging and therapeutic delivery. With various methods being used to form radio-nanomaterials, they can be used for positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and multimodal imaging. Therapeutic isotopes-loading radio-nanomaterials can possess selective killing efficacy of diseased cells (e.g. tumor cells) and can provide promises for certain isotopes which are not able to be used in a conventional manner. The successful and versatile biomedical applications of radio-nanomaterials warrants further investigations of those materials and their optimizations can pave the way to future imaging guidable, personalized treatments in patients.
Incidences between points and generalized spheres over finite fields and related problems
Authors: Phuong Nguyen D. , Thang Pham , Vinh Le A.
Published: June 2016

Let

𝔽
q

${\mathbb{F}_{q}}$

be a finite field of q elements, where q is a large odd prime power and

Q
=

a
1

⁢

x
1

c
1

+
⋯
+

a
d

⁢

x
d

c
d

∈

𝔽
q

⁢

[

x
1

,
…
,

x
d

]

,

${Q=a_{1}x_{1}^{c_{1}}+\cdots+a_{d}x_{d}^{c_{d}}\in\mathbb{F}_{q}[x_{1},\ldots,%
x_{d}]},$

where

2
≤

c
i

≤
N

${2\leq c_{i}\leq N}$

,

gcd
⁡

(

c
i

,
q
)

=
1

${\gcd(c_{i},q)=1}$

, and

a
i

∈

𝔽
q

${a_{i}\in\mathbb{F}_{q}}$

for all

1
≤
i
≤
d

${1\leq i\leq d}$

. A Q
-sphere is a set of the form

{

𝒙
∈

𝔽
q
d

∣

Q
⁢

(

𝒙
-
𝒃

)

=
r

}

,

${\bigl{\{}\boldsymbol{x}\in\mathbb{F}_{q}^{d}\mid Q(\boldsymbol{x}-\boldsymbol%
{b})=r\bigr{\}}},$

where

𝒃
∈

𝔽
q
d

,

r
∈

𝔽
q

${\boldsymbol{b}\in\mathbb{F}_{q}^{d},r\in\mathbb{F}_{q}}$

. We prove bounds on the number of incidences between a point set

𝒫

${{{\mathcal{P}}}}$

and a Q-sphere set

𝒮

${{{\mathcal{S}}}}$

, denoted by

I
⁢

(
𝒫
,
𝒮
)

${I({{\mathcal{P}}},{{\mathcal{S}}})}$

, as the following:

|

I
⁢

(
𝒫
,
𝒮
)

-

|
𝒫
|

⁢

|
𝒮
|

q

|

≤

q

d
/
2

⁢

|
𝒫
|

⁢

|
𝒮
|

.

$\Biggl{|}I({{\mathcal{P}}},{{\mathcal{S}}})-\frac{|{{\mathcal{P}}}||{{\mathcal%
{S}}}|}{q}\Biggr{|}\leq q^{d/2}\sqrt{|{{\mathcal{P}}}||{{\mathcal{S}}}|}.$

We also give a version of this estimate over finite cyclic rings

ℤ
/
q

⁢
ℤ

${\mathbb{Z}/q\mathbb{Z}}$

, where q is an odd integer. As a consequence of the above bounds, we give an estimate for the pinned distance problem and a bound on the number of incidences between a random point set and a random Q-sphere set in

𝔽
q
d

${\mathbb{F}_{q}^{d}}$

. We also study the finite field analogues of some combinatorial geometry problems, namely, the number of generalized isosceles triangles, and the existence of a large subset without repeated generalized distances.
A New Method for Setting Calculation Sequence of Directional Relay Protection in Multi-Loop Networks
Authors: Haijun Xiong , Qi Zhang
Published: June 2016

Workload of relay protection setting calculation in multi-loop networks may be reduced effectively by optimization setting calculation sequences. A new method of setting calculation sequences of directional distance relay protection in multi-loop networks based on minimum broken nodes cost vector (MBNCV) was proposed to solve the problem experienced in current methods. Existing methods based on minimum breakpoint set (MBPS) lead to more break edges when untying the loops in dependent relationships of relays leading to possibly more iterative calculation workloads in setting calculations. A model driven approach based on behavior trees (BT) was presented to improve adaptability of similar problems. After extending the BT model by adding real-time system characters, timed BT was derived and the dependency relationship in multi-loop networks was then modeled. The model was translated into communication sequence process (CSP) models and an optimization setting calculation sequence in multi-loop networks was finally calculated by tools. A 5-nodes multi-loop network was applied as an example to demonstrate effectiveness of the modeling and calculation method. Several examples were then calculated with results indicating the method effectively reduces the number of forced broken edges for protection setting calculation in multi-loop networks.
Crystal structure of 5-methoxy-N′-[(3Z)-5-chloro-1-(4-fluorobenzyl)-2-oxo-1,2-dihydro-3H-indol-3-ylidene]-1H-indole-2-carbohydrazide-DMSO (1/1), C25H18ClFN4O3 · C2H6OS
Authors: Haress Nadia G. , Ghabbour Hazem A. , Almutairi Maha S. , Fun Hoong-Kun , Attia Mohamed I.
Published: June 2016

C25H18ClFN4O3 · C2H6OS, monoclinic, P21 (No. 4), a = 6.0486(2) Å, b = 17.4704(7) Å, c = 11.9215(4) Å, β = 96.327(1)°, V = 1252.09(8) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0476, wR
ref
(F
2
) = 0.1004, T = 100 K.
Governing Civil Society in Nigeria and Zimbabwe: A Question of Policy Process and Non-State Actors’ Involvement
Authors: Chikoto-Schultz Grace , Uzochukwu Kelechi
Published: June 2016

Sovereign nations have the right to regulate the activities and operations of civil society organizations (CSOs) within their jurisdiction. The nature of official policy controls bears important implications for the breath and health of associational life, to the degree that they are relaxed, restrictive, or intrusive. Since nations in Africa have often been seen to subvert the growth and impact of CSOs, this article traces the policy controls that govern CSOs in Nigeria and Zimbabwe. Within the context of policy change, the article employs the Advocacy Coalition Framework in an effort to trace the policy process in these two countries. It particularly focuses on CSOs-focused policies and on clarifying the role and influence of non-state actors. Although political elites continue to dominate the policy process, non-state actors increasingly permeate the process through various formal and informal strategies, including the use of venues and influencing public opinion. Overall, CSOs-focused policies reflect distorted beliefs originating from the West’s preoccupations with a homogeneous, governance-focused African civil society.
Price discovery in the markets for credit risk: a Markov switching approach
Authors: Dimpfl Thomas , Peter Franziska J.
Published: May 2016

We examine price discovery in the Credit Default Swap and corporate bond market. Using a Markov switching framework enables us to analyze the dynamic behavior of the information shares during tranquil and crisis periods. The results show that price discovery takes place mostly on the CDS market. The importance of the CDS market even increases during the more volatile crisis periods. According to a cross sectional analysis liquidity is the main determinant of a market’s contribution to price discovery. During the crisis period, however, we also find a positive link between leverage and CDS market information shares. Overall the results indicate that price discovery measures and their determinants change during tranquil and crisis periods, which emphasizes the importance of more flexible frameworks, such as Markov switching models.