bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renaissance of realism, a new stage of Europeanization, or both? Estonia, Finland and EU foreign policy
Authors: Raik Kristi
Published: December 2014

The relationship between EU foreign policy and national foreign policies of the member states is changing due to various factors: the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty in 2009 and subsequent creation of the European External Action Service (EEAS); the economic crisis in Europe; and shifts in the global balance of power. The article explores these new dynamics in light of two cases, Estonia and Finland. It examines why the two countries support further integration in the area of foreign policy and what determines the limits of their support, applying rationalist and constructivist approaches. From a rationalist perspective, Finland and Estonia view the EU and the EEAS as a means to pursue national interests and make diplomacy more cost-effective; these aspects have become more important due to the economic crisis and changes in the international context. At the same time both countries value the EU as a security community and a source of solidarity, which points to the importance of socialization, as conceptualized by constructivists. However, the predominance of national foreign policy identity and an instrumental approach to the EU leaves limited space for deeper socialization, in spite of the new mechanisms of socialization introduced by the EEAS.
Efficient antibacterial silver nanoparticles composite using lignin as a template
Authors: Zhong Jin-Feng , Xu Li , Qin Xiao-Li
Published: December 2014

Lignin was used as a template for the first time to in situ synthesize lignin-based silver nanoparticles composites using sodium borohydride or ascorbic acid as a reducing agent. The lignin-based silver nanoparticles composites were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy studies confirmed that silver nanoparticles with good dispersibility were well anchored onto the surface of lignin and the nanoparticles had pseudospherical shape with size mostly in 45–55 nm. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the composites was studied against E. coli. A headspace gas chromatographic technique was used to monitor the bacterial growth by measuring the CO2 released by the bacteria. The results showed that the lignin-based silver nanoparticles composites can be used as potential antimicrobial agents.
Neurenteric cyst presenting with stridor and dysphagia: case report and literature review
Authors: Visvanathan V , Crowther J , Taylor William
Published: December 2014

Objective

Neurenteric cysts are rare lesions that account for 0.7–1.3% of all spinal cord tumours. We report the first ever case of a neurenteric cyst presenting with stridor and dysphagia. A literature review on the presentation and management of these lesions is also included.

Methods

A MEDLINE search of articles using the terms ‘neurenteric cyst’, ‘intraspinal cyst’, ‘enterogenous cyst’, ‘intramedullary cyst’ along with diagnosis, presentation and management was performed. Suitable references from these articles were also reviewed.

Results

All published evidence on neurenteric cysts are either case series or case reports (level IV/V) with the largest case series reporting 23 patients from a single institution.

Conclusion

Neurenteric cysts are rare spinal cord lesions that usually present with focal neurological signs and managed within neurosurgical units. This is the first reported case of a neurenteric cyst presenting with upper aerodigestive tract symptoms warranting specialist ear, nose and throat input.
Diaosi as infrapolitics: scatological tropes, identity-making and cultural intimacy on China’s Internet
Authors: Yang Peidong , Tang Lijun , Wang Xuan
Published: December 2014

This article examines a recent bizarre phenomenon on China’s Internet – the enormous popularity of a scatological Chinese neologism called diaosi, which literally translates as ‘dick string’. Seeing the diaosi phenomenon as a case of ‘infrapolitics’, a space of nuanced discursive practices mediating overt online politics and benign online entertainment, we analyse the ways in which an infrapolitical practice such as the diaosi phenomenon fuses political critique, cultural processes of identity construction and meaning-making as well as cyber ritual communion. Specifically, we interpret the infrapolitics of diaosi as simultaneously an instantiation of a prevalent scatological online culture that defies hypernormalization, a collective identity-making that seeks to create critical social solidarity and a practice and politics of cultural intimacy.
Performing the Responsive and Committed Employee through the Sociomaterial Mangle of Connection
Authors: Symon Gillian , Pritchard Katrina
Published: December 2014

In the light of increasingly mobile and flexible work, maintaining connections to work is presented as vital. Various studies have sought to understand how these connections are experienced and managed, particularly through the use of smartphones. We take a new perspective on this practice by bringing together the conceptual fields of sociomateriality and identity work. Through the analysis of narratives produced by smartphone users in an engineering firm we argue that connection can be viewed as a sociomaterial assemblage that performs particular identities: being contactable and responsive; being involved and committed; and being in-demand and authoritative. Through this analysis we both elaborate the concept of connectivity at work and indicate how the material is implicated in identity performances.
Overcoming the Help-Seeker’s Dilemma: How Computer-Mediated Systems Encourage Employee Help-Seeking Initiation
Authors: Cleavenger Dean J. , Munyon Timothy P.
Published: December 2014

Helping processes are critical for organizations. Yet, research suggests that there are strong disincentives for employees to seek help from others. Drawing on self-presentation theory, this paper tested how computer-mediated communication may be used to stimulate a help-seeking response from workers. Subjects were placed in an induced-failure work scenario and provided with a computer-mediated channel with which to request help. By experimentally manipulating feedback, anonymity, and interdependence features of the work context, we then measured the length of time before subjects requested help. Eighty three percent of subjects initiated a request for help within the work period, and these help-seeking requests were made more quickly under strong helping norms, high goal interdependence, and high anonymity conditions rather than weak helping norms, low goal interdependence, and low anonymity conditions. The results provide new insights into the design of official communication channels intended to encourage employee help-seeking.
Making Sense of Sensemaking in Organization Studies
Authors: Brown Andrew D. , Colville Ian , Pye Annie
Published: December 2014

‘Sensemaking’ is an extraordinarily influential perspective with a substantial following among management and organization scholars interested in how people appropriate and enact their ‘realities’. Organization Studies has been and remains one of the principal outlets for work that seeks either to draw on or to extend our understanding of sensemaking practices in and around organizations. The contribution of this paper is fourfold. First, we review briefly what we understand by sensemaking and some key debates which fracture the field. Second, we attend critically to eight papers published previously in Organization Studies which we discuss in terms of five broad themes: (i) how sense is made through discourse; (ii) the politics from which social forms of sensemaking emerge and the power that is inherent in it; (iii) the intertwined and recursive nature of micro-macro sensemaking processes; (iv) the strong ties which bind sensemaking and identities; and (v) the role of sensemaking processes in decision making and change. Third, while not designed to be a review of extant literature, we discuss these themes with reference to other related work, notably that published in this journal. Finally, we raise for consideration a number of potentially generative topics for further empirical and theory-building research.
Perception of non-native consonant length contrast: The role of attention in phonetic processing
Authors: Porretta Vincent J , Tucker Benjamin V
Published: December 2014

The present investigation examines English speakers’ ability to identify and discriminate non-native consonant length contrast. Three groups (L1 English No-Instruction, L1 English Instruction, and L1 Finnish control) performed a speeded forced-choice identification task and a speeded AX discrimination task on Finnish non-words (e.g. /hupo/–/huppo/) which were manipulated for intervocalic consonant duration. The results indicate that basic information, focusing the participants’ attention on a particular contrast, assists novice listeners in processing a non-native contrast. We find support for a phonetic level of processing which is intermediate to non-linguistic acoustic processing and phonemic processing at which the phonetic cue of duration becomes significant. We interpret the results in relation to the Speech Learning Model (Flege 1995, 2003).
Rethinking Service Delivery for Students With Significant Learning Problems
Authors: Fuchs Douglas , Fuchs Lynn S.
Published: December 2014

Despite recent advances in the development of instructional interventions, many students with significant learning problems do not benefit from them. This includes 25% to 50% of students with learning disabilities (LD). In this article, we identify five limitations of current instructional programs that may help to explain students’ inadequate responsiveness. The first of these is that the instructional programs often fail to address the difficulty students experience when transitioning from the primary grades to the intermediate grades. Second, many of the programs lack sufficient comprehensiveness in the strategies or the skills they address. Third, they typically do not teach for transfer. Fourth, they do not adequately address the linguistic and cognitive limitations of many struggling students. Fifth, they do not make use of implementation features that can optimize the intensity of instruction. We describe these limitations and explain how researchers might modify their instructional programs to make them more effective for children with severe learning problems.
A new approach to determining the performance of superdisintegrants
Authors: Joshi Yogesh , Mastropietro David , Muppalaneni Srinath , Omidian Hossein
Published: December 2014

Superdisintegrants are used in some tablet formulations to improve water penetration and disintegration, leading to improved drug dissolution rates. The extremely fast speeds at which superdisintegrants perform their functions have made it difficult to evaluate differences in their disintegration properties. In this study, a novel technique was developed and explored to measure the swelling pressure of superdisintegrants under compressed conditions. The measurement of swelling pressure was chosen as it is not directly dependent on the mechanisms involved in tablet disintegration (swelling, wicking, and deformation). Three commercial superdisintegrants including Ac-Di-Sol® (internally crosslinked carboxymethylcellulose), Explotab® (internally crosslinked carboxymethylstarch), and Polyplasdone® XL (crosslinked polyvinylpyrrolidone) were evaluated using this technique as well as free swelling and videography. Swelling pressure was found to easily discern the differences among the superdisintegrants that the other methods could not. The swelling data were also found to be compatible with an equation used to describe water absorption behavior into hydrogels with derived factors being comparable to those observed experimentally. Therefore, an easy and effective method to evaluate the swelling behavior of superdisintegrants was obtained by combining the swelling model and the swelling pressures by this technique.
New methods of optimization of the flight profiles for performance database-modeled aircraft
Authors: Patrón Roberto S Félix , Berrou Yolène , Botez Ruxandra M
Published: December 2014

Researchers have been attempting to reduce aircraft fuel consumption for decades to minimize aviation’s emissions to the atmosphere. This article presents an algorithm which improves the trajectories created by a commercial flight management system. A complete analysis of the climb, cruise, and descent was performed and a genetic algorithm has been implemented to evaluate the effects of the possible changes to aircraft speeds and altitudes, as well as the influence of the wind vector on the lateral and vertical profiles, all to obtain the flight trajectory that most reduces the global flight fuel consumption.
Evaluation of Subcutaneous Phenobarbital Administration in Hospice Patients
Authors: Hosgood Jessica Richards , Kimbrel Jason M. , Protus Bridget McCrate , Grauer Phyllis A.
Published: December 2014

Phenobarbital is used in hospice and palliative care to treat refractory symptoms. In end-of-life care, Food and Drug Administration approved routes of administration may be unreasonable based on patients’ status. In these cases, phenobarbital may be administered subcutaneously for symptom management. However, according to the American Hospital Formulary Service, subcutaneous administration of commercially available injectable phenobarbital is cautioned due to possible skin reactions. This study evaluates the tolerability of phenobarbital administered subcutaneously. Of 69 patients and 774 distinct subcutaneous phenobarbital injections, 2 site reactions were recorded (2.9% of patients; 0.3% of injections). Both were mild, grade 1 reactions. Each patient continued to receive subcutaneous phenobarbital via newly placed ports with no additional reactions. Based on these findings, phenobarbital appears to be well tolerated when administered subcutaneously.
Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes in Caring for Older Adults With Advanced Illness Among Staff Members of Long-Term Care and Assisted Living Facilities
Authors: Cimino Nina M. , Lockman Kashelle , Grant Marian , McPherson Mary Lynn
Published: December 2014

In long-term care and assisted living facilities, many groups of health care professionals contribute to the work of the health care team. These staff members perform essential, direct patient care activities. An educational needs assessment was conducted to determine the learning needs and preferences of staff members related to providing care for patients with life-limiting illnesses. Staff members placed importance on understanding topics such as principles of palliative care, pain assessment, pain management, and nonpain symptom management. The majority of survey respondents were also interested in learning more about these topics. The results of this educational needs analysis suggest staff members would benefit from a course tailored to these identified educational needs and designed to overcome previously identified educational barriers.
Naloxegol
Authors: Leonard James , Baker Danial E.
Published: December 2014

Objective: To describe the effectiveness of naloxegol for the treatment of opioid-induced constipation (OIC) in chronic non–cancer pain patients. Data Sources: Citations in PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest were obtained. Reference lists from individual articles obtained were reviewed for additional sources. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language publications available as poster presentations, abstracts, and peer-reviewed articles ranging from preclinical to phase III trials and published between 2007 and September 14, 2014, were reviewed and summarized. Data Synthesis: Naloxegol was shown to be effective for increasing the average weekly number of spontaneous bowel movements (SBMs) in a single phase II trial enrolling 208 patients. Phase III trials (KODIAC-04/-05) enrolling a total of 1352 patients developed a new primary end point with a more strict responder criteria. This entailed a mean increase in SBMs, at least 3 SBMs per week, efficacy in 9 of 12 weeks, and efficacy in 3 of the final 4 weeks of the study period. Both groups receiving naloxegol 25 mg had significant improvement over the placebo group. The improvement was similar in patients who reported failure with laxatives in the past and regardless of daily opioid dose. A long-term trial (KODIAC-08) showed safety over 52 weeks. Conclusion: OIC affects many individuals treated with opioids for chronic non–cancer pain. Previous over-the-counter or prescription treatment options were limited by a lack of adequate and well-controlled studies, multiple daily dosing, or need for injections. Cost issues may limit therapy with naloxegol to select patients.
Radiographic Results After Hallux Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis for Hallux Varus
Authors: Geaney Lauren E. , Myerson Mark S.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Hallux metatarsophalangeal (MP) joint arthrodesis for hallux varus is generally reserved for severe deformity, failed surgery or the development of osteoarthritis. The purpose of this study was to determine the radiologic results of arthrodesis of the hallux MP joint following treatment for hallux varus. Our hypothesis was that in the process of correcting the hallux valgus angle, the 1-2 intermetatarsal angle (1-2 IMA) and hallux valgus angle (HVA) will be improved due to correction of the deforming forces.

Methods:

A retrospective review was performed on 26 patients with 29 feet that had symptomatic hallux varus deformities treated with arthrodesis of the hallux MP joint between September 1, 2002, and December 31, 2012. The 1-2 IMA and HVA were measured on the preoperative and most recent postoperative films and compared. Twenty-nine patients were followed with postoperative weight-bearing radiographs. Two were men and 24 were women. Twelve were performed on the right foot, 17 on the left, including 3 bilateral cases. Fourteen patients had concomitant procedures on the ipsilateral forefoot.

Results:

The average 1-2 IMA changed from 4.8 degrees to 8.4 degrees, a difference of 3.6 degrees ( P < .05), and the average HVA changed from −20.7 degrees to 8.1 degrees ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Our study showed that a hallux MP joint arthrodesis in patients with hallux varus resulted in a predictable increase in the 1-2 IMA.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Implementation of assisted repeated reading techniques for the incidental acquisition of novel foreign vocabulary
Authors: Liu Yeu-Ting , Todd Andrew Graeme
Published: December 2014

Although repeated reading – a pedagogical practice often involving phonological support in which learners revisit novel forms in context – has been extensively studied in terms of reading fluency and comprehension, little research has explored whether it promotes language acquisition. The current study, an attempt to fill this gap, found that without explicit instruction 80 Mandarin-speaking intermediate learners of Japanese as a foreign language were capable of recognizing nearly one novel foreign orthographic form in every three seeded in passages after one hour of repeated-reading-based practice. The study also shows that the efficacy of repeated reading was modulated by how the phonological practice was implemented (e.g. shadowing, time-lapse imitation, subvocalization) and whether the target vocabulary was encountered in the same or different contexts. Additionally, repeated reading was found to be more effective with target vocabulary that shares etymological roots with the learners’ L1. Pedagogical implications based on these findings are discussed in terms of how repeated-reading-based techniques should be best implemented for the most positive outcomes in terms of incidental foreign vocabulary acquisition.
Mechanical insufflation/exsufflation improves vital capacity in neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Stehling Florian , Bouikidis Anastasios , Schara Ulrike , Mellies Uwe
Published: December 2014

Inherited neuromuscular disorders inevitably result in severe lung volume restriction associated with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the long-term effects of the regular use of mechanical insufflation/exsufflation on the course of the vital capacity. This retrospective data analysis included 21 patients (16.1 ± 6.5 years) with neuromuscular disorders and severe lung volume restriction using nocturnal noninvasive ventilation. The patients were advised to regularly use the mechanical insufflation/exsufflation twice a day for 10 minutes applying sets of three insufflation/exsufflation breath via face mask irrespective of respiratory tract infection. Data on the course of vital capacity were collected 2 years prior and 2 years after the introduction of regular use of mechanical insufflation/exsufflation. Before the introduction of mechanical insufflation/exsufflation vital capacity decreased from 0.71 ± 0.38 L to 0.50 ± 0.24 L in the last year and from 0.88 ± 0.45 L to 0.71 ± 0.38 L in the next to last year. In the first year, after regular use of mechanical insufflation/exsufflation vital capacity significantly increased by 28% (from 0.50 L to 0.64 L)—after the second year the vital capacity increase remained stable (0.64 vs. 0.65 L). These data suggest that the regular use of mechanical insufflation/exsufflation improves vital capacity in patients with neuromuscular disorders and severe lung volume restriction.
School leaders’ gender strategies
Authors: Lumby Jacky
Published: December 2014

This article analyses interview data from 54 women school principals in South Africa to explore how women position their identities in relation to their gender, ethnicity and other characteristics. While grounded in their own context, the women’s strategies resonate with those of women in many parts of the world. Five strategies are discerned: transforming the value of low-status identities, asserting a valued identity, negating stigmatised characteristics, denying disadvantage, and accepting women's inferiority. It is suggested that each may bring benefit to the individual but may also further embed disadvantage: that women are caught in a web of discrimination. It is argued that we do not sufficiently understand the complexity and balance of positive and negative effects of individual positioning on principals’ lives and on wider structural change. The impact of action may not be captured by simplistic cause and effect analysis but appears to be both embedding sexism further and leveraging limited gains.
The impact of the economic crisis and austerity on the nursing and midwifery professions in the Republic of Ireland – ‘boom’, ‘bust’ and retrenchment
Authors: Wells John , White Mark
Published: December 2014

The year 2008 marked a profound crisis for Irish public services, with the economy moving from a state of ‘boom’ to ‘bust’. This economic context has significantly impacted on Irish nursing and midwifery. This paper outlines the profound changes that have taken place in the landscape of Irish nursing and midwifery, between 1997 and 2014 as a result. Firstly we outline the considerable changes that took place within the nursing and midwifery professions following the Government’s acceptance of the recommendations of the Commission on Nursing (Government of Ireland, 1998), including the introduction of a 4-year degree-level pre-registration training for all nurses, and the establishment of the Health Service Executive in 2005. We then describe the consequences of the austerity measures implemented by the Irish Government from 2009 to the present and their impact on the Irish nursing and midwifery professions. An employment moratorium, salary cuts, increased working hours and incentivised retirement schemes, combined with a restructuring of the hospital service and the potential restructuring of nurse education are discussed. These measures have been introduced at a time of increased public and professional consciousness of the impact on patient care of having nurses in the right place, in the right numbers and with the right skills set. It is argued that these restructuring measures will have a profound impact on the shape of Irish nursing into the future, though whether positive or negative is too early to tell.
Nursing leadership in the European landscape: influence, reality and politics
Authors: Gobbi Mary
Published: December 2014

Demonstrating the impact and effectiveness of nursing leadership, influence and power within the European space is a challenging endeavour. Using the example of the European Directive on Professional Qualifications (2005/36/EC) and its successor legislation (Modernised Directive 2013/55/EU), this paper reviews the collaborative strategies, drivers and leadership actions which have influenced the recent legislation, albeit without complete success. Looking to the future, it is argued that nursing will struggle to achieve further positive political outcomes until there is a more coherent, assertive and collaborative leadership at pan-European level. Given the complexity of the European ‘trilogue’, namely the co-decision powers and interactions between the European Parliament, Commission, and Council, it is essential that far-reaching and sustained network(s) of influence are established within each country, including prospective accession countries. A failure to co-ordinate, co-operate, strategically lobby, garner research evidence and argue for standards of education, practice, care and workforce conditions, could lead to significant threats to public protection and safety. Drawing upon the related historical and contemporary context, sources of contemporary leadership, ‘absent and strident voices’ and European Union (EU) policy drivers, recommendations for future leadership directions are proposed. Political engagement is crucial to enabling reforms for the next Directive revision.
‘The State we’re in’: nursing in the 21st Century – a view from Scotland
Authors: Smith Pam
Published: December 2014

In this paper I give a discursive view on the current state of nursing and the uniqueness of the Scottish context. After setting the historical and philosophical scene I begin in 2010 to ‘capture a moment in time’ during my first year in Scotland. I comment on my involvement in a conference on nursing narratives from speakers and delegates. I go on to describe the impact of Francis, policy and practice developments, NHS Scotland’s core values and the role of the Scottish Ombudsman in oversight and governance. I then address the role of research and development and the emergence of ‘alternative narratives’ associated with medical science, public health and Scotland as the ‘Living Lab’. I consider these narratives alongside the narratives of a caring and compassionate workforce to deliver high standards of safe, effective person-centred care to ensure ‘the people of Scotland lead longer, healthier lives’. This aspiration poses a particular challenge given Scotland’s position as ‘The Sick Man (and woman) of Europe’. I draw on these ‘alternative narratives’ to comment on their implications for nursing and midwifery. I conclude with a statement on the recent referendum for an independent Scotland and implications for the future.
Therapy for myeloproliferative neoplasms: when, which agent, and how?
Authors: Geyer Holly L. , Mesa Ruben A.
Published: December 2014

Myeloproliferative neoplasms, including polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia, and myelofibrosis (MF) (both primary and secondary), are recognized for their burdensome symptom profiles, life-threatening complications, and risk of progression to acute leukemia. Recent advancements in our ability to diagnose and prognosticate these clonal malignancies have paralleled the development of MPN-targeted therapies that have had a significant impact on disease burden and quality of life. Ruxolitinib has shown success in alleviating the symptomatic burden, reducing splenomegaly and improving quality of life in patients with MF. The role and clinical expectations of JAK2 inhibition continues to expand to a variety of investigational arenas. Clinical trials for patients with MF focus on new JAK inhibitors with potentially less myelosuppression (pacritinib) or even activity for anemia (momelotinib). Further efforts focus on combination trials (including a JAK inhibitor base) or targeting new pathways (ie, telomerase). Similarly, therapy for PV continues to evolve with phase 3 trials investigating optimal frontline therapy (hydroxyurea or IFN) and second-line therapy for hydroxyurea-refractory or intolerant PV with JAK inhibitors. In this chapter, we review the evolving data and role of JAK inhibition (alone or in combination) in the management of patients with MPNs.
Mechanism of action of tranexamic acid in bleeding trauma patients: an exploratory analysis of data from the CRASH-2 trial
Authors: Roberts Ian , Prieto-Merino David , Manno Daniela
Published: December 2014

Introduction

To investigate the mechanism of action of tranexamic acid (TXA) in bleeding trauma patients, we examined the timing of its effect on mortality. We hypothesised that if TXA reduces mortality by decreasing blood loss, its effect should be greatest on the day of the injury when bleeding is most profuse. However, if TXA reduces mortality via an anti-inflammatory mechanism its effect should be greater over the subsequent days.

Methods

Exploratory analysis, including per-protocol analyses, of data from the CRASH-2 trial, a randomised placebo controlled trial of the effect of TXA on mortality in 20,211 trauma patients with, or at risk of, significant bleeding. We examined hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals for all-cause mortality, deaths due to bleeding and non-bleeding deaths, according to the day since injury. The CRASH-2 trial is registered as ISRCTN86750102 and ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00375258.

Results

The effect of TXA on mortality is greatest for deaths occurring on the day of the injury (HR all-cause mortality = 0.83, 0.73 to 0.93). This survival benefit is only evident in patients in whom treatment is initiated within 3 hours of their injury (HR ≤3 hours = 0.78, 0.68 to 0.90; HR >3 hours = 1.02, 0.76 to 1.36). Initiation of TXA treatment within 3 hours of injury reduced the hazard of death due to bleeding on the day of the injury by 28% (HR = 0.72, 0.60 to 0.86). TXA treatment initiated beyond 3 hours of injury appeared to increase the hazard of death due to bleeding, although the estimates were imprecise.

Conclusions

Early administration of tranexamic acid appears to reduce mortality primarily by preventing exsanguination on the day of the injury.
Evidence for GC-biased gene conversion as a driver of between-lineage differences in avian base composition
Authors: Weber Claudia C , Boussau Bastien , Romiguier Jonathan , Jarvis Erich D , Ellegren Hans
Published: December 2014

Background

While effective population size (Ne) and life history traits such as generation time are known to impact substitution rates, their potential effects on base composition evolution are less well understood. GC content increases with decreasing body mass in mammals, consistent with recombination-associated GC biased gene conversion (gBGC) more strongly impacting these lineages. However, shifts in chromosomal architecture and recombination landscapes between species may complicate the interpretation of these results. In birds, interchromosomal rearrangements are rare and the recombination landscape is conserved, suggesting that this group is well suited to assess the impact of life history on base composition.

Results

Employing data from 45 newly and 3 previously sequenced avian genomes covering a broad range of taxa, we found that lineages with large populations and short generations exhibit higher GC content. The effect extends to both coding and non-coding sites, indicating that it is not due to selection on codon usage. Consistent with recombination driving base composition, GC content and heterogeneity were positively correlated with the rate of recombination. Moreover, we observed ongoing increases in GC in the majority of lineages.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence that gBGC may drive patterns of nucleotide composition in avian genomes and are consistent with more effective gBGC in large populations and a greater number of meioses per unit time; that is, a shorter generation time. Thus, in accord with theoretical predictions, base composition evolution is substantially modulated by species life history.
An evaluation of the brain distribution of [11C]GSK1034702, a muscarinic-1 (M1) positive allosteric modulator in the living human brain using positron emission tomography
Authors: Ridler Khanum , Cunningham Vincent , Huiban Mickael , Martarello Laurent , Pampols-Maso Sabina , Passchier Jan , Gunn Roger N , Searle Graham , Abi-Dargham Anissa , Slifstein Mark , Watson Jeanette , Laruelle Marc , Rabiner Eugenii A
Published: December 2014

Background

The ability to quantify the capacity of a central nervous system (CNS) drug to cross the human blood-brain barrier (BBB) provides valuable information for de-risking drug development of new molecules. Here, we present a study, where a suitable positron emission tomography (PET) ligand was not available for the evaluation of a potent muscarinic acetylcholine receptor type-1 (M1) allosteric agonist (GSK1034702) in the primate and human brain. Hence, direct radiolabelling of the novel molecule was performed and PET measurements were obtained and combined with in vitro equilibrium dialysis assays to enable assessment of BBB transport and estimation of the free brain concentration of GSK1034702 in vivo.

Methods

GSK1034702 was radiolabelled with 11C, and the brain distribution of [11C]GSK1034702 was investigated in two anaesthetised baboons and four healthy male humans. In humans, PET scans were performed (following intravenous injection of [11C]GSK1034702) at baseline and after a single oral 5-mg dose of GSK1034702. The in vitro brain and plasma protein binding of GSK1034702 was determined across a range of species using equilibrium dialysis.

Results

The distribution of [11C]GSK1034702 in the primate brain was homogenous and the whole brain partition coefficient (V
T) was 3.97. In contrast, there was mild regional heterogeneity for GSK1034702 in the human brain. Human whole brain V
T estimates (4.9) were in broad agreement with primate V
T and the f
P/f
ND ratio (3.97 and 2.63, respectively), consistent with transport by passive diffusion across the BBB.

Conclusion

In primate and human PET studies designed to evaluate the transport of a novel M1 allosteric agonist (GSK1034702) across the BBB, we have demonstrated good brain uptake and BBB passage consistent with passive diffusion or active influx. These studies discharged some of the perceived development risks for GSK1034702 and provided information to progress the molecule into the next stage of clinical development.

Trial registration

Clinical trial details: ‘Brain Uptake of GSK1034702: a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan Study.’; clinicaltrial.gov identifier: NCT00937846.
Cell segmentation and pipette identification for automated patch clamp recording
Authors: Yang Runhuai , Tam Chi Ho , Cheung Ka Lun , Wong Kai Chun , Xi Ning , Yang Jie , Lai King Wai Chiu
Published: December 2014

A visual-based approach for identifying living cells and performing the automated patch clamp recording was reported. Based on the image processing and blob detection algorithm, the vision-based method was developed for the detection and identification of biological cells and micropipette. The method was implemented in a micromanipulation system that enabled the identification of the boundary and the center of the target cell and separation from its neighboring cells. The method successfully identified a batch of neuroblastoma cells with the highest yield of 90%. The results demonstrated that the visual-based approach can be integrated to the micromanipulation system to automatically manipulate the patch pipette tip to the center of the target cell, and as a result, the whole-cell recording can be performed precisely and effectively.
Septin 9 negatively regulates ubiquitin-dependent downregulation of epidermal growth factor receptor
Authors: Diesenberg Katrin , Beerbaum Monika , Fink Uwe , Schmieder Peter , Krauss Michael
Published: December 2014

Septins constitute a family of GTP-binding proteins involved in a variety of biological processes. Several isoforms have been implicated in disease, but the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogenesis are poorly understood. Here we show that depletion of SEPT9 decreases surface levels of epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFRs) by enhancing receptor degradation. We identify a consensus motif within the SEPT9 aminoterminal domain that supports its association with the adaptor protein CIN85. We further show CIN85-SEPT9 to be localized exclusively to the plasma membrane, where SEPT9 is recruited to EGF-engaged receptors in a CIN85-dependent manner. Finally, we demonstrate that SEPT9 negatively regulates EGFR degradation by preventing association of the ubiquitin ligase Cbl with CIN85 resulting in reduced EGFR ubiquitination. Together, these data provide a mechanistic explanation how SEPT9, though acting exclusively at the plasma membrane, impairs sorting of EGFRs into the degradative pathway.
Characterization of the truncated hemoglobin THB1 from protein extracts of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Johnson Eric A. , Lecomte Juliette T.J.
Published: December 2014

Truncated hemoglobins (TrHbs) belong to the hemoglobin superfamily, but unlike their distant vertebrate relatives, little is known about their principal physiologic functions.  Several TrHbs have been studiedin vitrousing engineered recombinant peptides.  These efforts have resulted in a wealth of knowledge about the chemical properties of TrHbs and have generated interesting functional leads. However, questions persist as to how closely these engineered proteins mimic their counterparts within the native cell. In this report, we examined THB1, one of several TrHbs from the model organismChlamydomonas reinhardtii.The recombinant THB1 (rTHB1) has favorable solubility and stability properties and is an excellent candidate forin vitrocharacterization. Linking rTHB1 to thein vivoprotein is a critical step in understanding the physiologic function of this protein. Using a simplified three-step purification protocol, 3.5-L batches of algal culture were processed to isolate 50–60 μL fractions enriched in THB1. These fractions ofC. reinhardtiiproteins were then subjected to physical examination. Using gel mobility, optical absorbance and immunoreactivity, THB1 was identified in these enriched fractions and its presence correlated with that of a heme molecule. Mass spectrometry confirmed this cofactor to be a typebheme and revealed that the native protein contains a co-translational modification consistent with amino-terminal acetylation following initial methionine cleavage.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rand Graham K.
Published: December 2014

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor will be pleased to receive an email from those willing to review a book, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor.

The following books are reviewed in this issue of Interfaces, 44(6), November–December 2014: Improving Risk Analysis, Louis Anthony Cox, Jr.; Applying Analytics: A Practical Introduction, Evan S. Levine; Business Analytics: A Practioner’s Guide, Rahul Saxena and Anand Srinivasan; and Decision Aid Models for Disaster Management and Emergencies, Begoña Vitoriano, Javier Montero, and Da Ruan.
Book Reviews
Authors: Flanders Jane , Sandall Jane , Mander Rosemary
Published: December 2014

If its title is anything to go by, this sounds like the sort of book that should be on everyone's bookshelf. Its authors are well known academics, and the book has an excellent pedigree, having started life as an appendix to the textbook High Risk Pregnancy — Management Options by the same authors. However, midwives should approach the book with caution and may well find themselves disappointed with the content, much of which is of academic interest only. This is not to say that the book is of no use — the section on haematology, for example, is very comprehensive and well set out. However, much of the information contained in the book is based on studies too small to be meaningful. For example, I would particularly question the inclusion of a study on adrenocorticotrohpic hormone levels in pregnancy based on results obtained from only four women. A further detraction is that many of the values are presented in graphic rather than tabular form and, unfortunately, the graphs are too small and try to convey too much information to be easily read.
Letters
Authors: Plummer Anni , Sharp Deborah
Published: December 2014

In reply to Karen Johnsons's letter (Vol. 5(2) 1997, p.74), perhaps to obtain ‘true’ independency, we should take a step backwards. Learn from the past and ‘together’ establish a New Midwives Act. This would encompass all aspects of midwifery, from education, supervision, research and clinical and managerial practice.
Book Reviews
Authors: Sandall Jane
Published: December 2014

This book deals primarily with the century before the creation of the welfare state in Britain. It is the product of a selection of papers from a conference on gender, health and welfare that took place in 1993 in Oxford Brookes University.
Management of Resistant Lower Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: December 2014

Introduction:

Intravesical antibacterial administration is an option for the management of multidrug-resistant urinary tract infections.
Approach to the patient with acute abdominal pain
Authors: Praschkte Kathryn
Published: December 2014

The term ‘acute abdomen’ is generally understood to denote a serious, potentially fatal syndrome of which abdominal pain is a key component. An acute abdomen may be caused by a variety of underlying disease processes, many of which are potentially life-threatening. Veterinary surgeons managing such cases must be well versed in the appropriate diagnostic approach to facilitate appropriate therapy. A logical and efficient diagnostic approach is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment, be it medical, surgical or a combination of both. Definitive treatment may involve medical and/or surgical interventions.
Tranquilisation, anaesthesia and euthanasia in pet fish
Authors: Saint-Erne Nick
Published: December 2014

Many commonly used veterinary anaesthetics for small animals can also be used with pet fish. Treating tropical aquarium fish is not as hard as one might think, and tranquilising them prior to handling them for physical examinations and diagnostic tests makes the process easier. A number of surgical procedures have been performed on anaesthetised fish, especially with large species such as koi or fish on display in a public aquarium. Anaesthetising the fish prior to any surgical procedure is essential. Euthanasia of aquarium fish is sometimes necessary, and using an overdose of anaesthetic agents can make this process quick and painless. Anaesthetic agents can be added to the water, given orally or injected into the fish. This paper reviews the drugs, dosages and routes of administration used for tranquilisation, anaesthesia and euthanasia in aquatic veterinary medicine.
A non-scheduled patient who needs immediate surgery
Authors: Mirfin Sabrina , Hide Katie
Published: December 2014

In this personal account, the author explores the journey of a patient followed throughout their procedure. For the purposes of this paper, the patient will be refered to as ‘Charlie’ to protect patient confidentiality ( Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), 2012a ). The management of Charlie will be discussed and how his anaesthetic and surgical needs were assessed during an incision and drainage (I&D) of his right-breast abscess. The main focus will be the psychosocial care of Charlie.
Understanding eating disorders in young people
Authors: Burton Maddie
Published: December 2014

Maddie Burton outlines the causes of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, in children and young people
Diabetes-related grief and distress: recognition in practice
Authors: Phillips Anne
Published: December 2014

Diabetes-related grief and distress are often under-recognized. Anne Phillips explains the triggering factors for these conditions, and how practice nurses can help patients to deal with these feelings
Sparks in the Fog: Social and Economic Mechanisms as Enablers for Community Network Clouds
Authors: Khan Muhammad Amin , Freitag Felix
Published: December 2014

Internet and communication technologies have lowered the costs of enabling individuals and communities to collaborate together. This collaboration has provided new services like user-generated content and social computing, as evident from success stories like Wikipedia. Through collaboration, collectively built infrastructures like community wireless mesh networks where users provide the communication network, have also emerged. Community networks have demonstrated successful bandwidth sharing, but have not been able to extend their collective effort to other computing resources like storage and processing. The success of cloud computing has been enabled by economies of scale and the need for elastic, flexible and on-demand provisioning of computing services. The consolidation of today’s cloud technologies offers now the possibility of collectively built community clouds, building upon user-generated content and user-provided networks towards an ecosystem of cloud services. We explore in this paper how social and economic mechanisms can play a role in overcoming the barriers of voluntary resource provisioning in such community clouds, by analysing the costs involved in building these services and how they give value to the participants. We indicate socio-economic policies and how they can be implemented in community networks, to ease the uptake and ensure the sustainability of community clouds.
Multi-Agent Model based on Tabu Search for the Permutation Flow Shop Scheduling Problem
Authors: Bargaoui Hafewa , Belkahla Driss Olfa
Published: December 2014

The objective of this work is to present a distributed approach for the problem of finding a minimum makespan in the permutation flow shop scheduling problem. The problem is strongly NP-hard and its resolution optimally within a reasonable time is impossible. For these reasons we opted for a Multi-agent architecture based on cooperative behaviour allied with the Tabu Search meta-heuristic. The proposed model is composed of two classes of agents: Supervisor agent, responsible for generating the initial solution and containing the Tabu Search core, and Scheduler agents which are responsible for the satisfaction of the constraints under their jurisdiction and the evaluation of all the neighborhood solutions generated by the Supervisor agent. The proposed approach has been tested on different benchmarks data sets and results demonstrate that it reaches high-quality solutions.