bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Six Sigma Approach to Water Savings
Authors: Cairns Ryland , Macpherson Michael
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this paper is to explore the potential of a six sigma approach to reducing water losses through a combination of water efficiency and leak detection on a private distribution system. The paper takes the form of a case study that investigates the implementation of water reduction strategy across an estate with 26 miles of potable water pipe and over 200 facilities. This incorporates methods developed in the water industry such as water loss reduction and water demand management. The paper demonstrates that large water savings could be made through adoption of a six sigma approach. The approach has the potential to be applied to a wide range of situations including sites with limited technology. This case study provides a useful source for Facilities Managers involved in the management of utilities to determine suitable water saving approaches and strategies for large estates with private water distribution networks.
Nursing students’ perception of safety in clinical settings: From the quality and safety officer
Authors: Cooper Elizabeth E.
Published: May 2017

Teaching methods to improve the safety of care for patients has been a priority for nurse educators. This article discusses the student nurses’ use of error reporting tools in the clinical setting, revealing study results completed by the Quality and Safety Officer in a School of Nursing and Health Professions. The aim was to report on the use of safety tools and the perception of safety issues in clinical settings identified by 121 prelicensure baccalaureate nursing students. Responses suggest that it is challenging for nursing students to report errors and near miss events. Barriers exist for the nursing student. The survey reveals difficulty in reporting but discloses that safety for the patient continues to be a primary concern for the nursing student.
Tobacco smoking among nursing students in Saudi Arabia: A descriptive correlational study
Authors: Abu Raddaha Ahmad H. , Al-Sabeely Amirat A. , Mohamed Heba M. , Aldossary Eid H.
Published: May 2017

Background and objectives: Tobacco smoking is a global epidemic and health threat that continues to increase. Nursing students primarily develop their professional roles toward smoking cessation during their academic nursing education.  We assessed prevalence and behavioral patterns of tobacco smoking among nursing students. Along with nature of education received on tobacco smoking cessation, we sought to explore their knowledge, attitudes and beliefs toward tobacco smoking.Methods: Using convenience sampling, a descriptive correlational research design was used. Subjects were undergraduate students from a public university located in Alriyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. A standardized self-administered questionnaire, the Global Health Professional Student Survey, was utilized.Results: Eighty-four percent reported not smoking tobacco throughout their lifetime (i.e., never smokers), while the remaining were former smokers. Although 11.7% indicated that they had received formal training on tobacco-smoking cessation, more former smokers reported receiving such formal training than never smokers (25% vs. 9.3%, χ2 = 4.04, df = 1, p = .04). Students who were in third year of program, who thought that a smoker who quits smoking tobacco products would avoid/decrease serious health problems, and who stated that tobacco smoking never been allowed inside their living homes while children were present were more likely be never smokers.Conclusions: Adding training modules on smoking cessation to undergraduate nursing program curricula is highly suggested. Considering our unique findings on the effect of smoking status on the attitudes and beliefs toward smoking among nursing students when planning and implementing training modules seems beneficial. Future research is recommended to explore the lived experiences and consequences of smoking behavior among former smokers group.
Number theory vs. Hungarian highschool textbooks
Authors: Csányi Petra , Fábián Kata , Szabó Csaba , Szabó Zsanett , Vásárhelyi Éva
Published: May 2017

According to the Hungarian National Curriculum the proof of the irrationality of √2 is considered in grade 10. We analyze the standard proofs from the textbooks and give some mathematical arguments that those reasonings are neither appropriate nor sufficient. We suggest that the proof should involve the fundamental theorem of arithmetic.
Regula falsi in lower secondary school education
Authors: Fülöp Zsolt
Published: May 2017

The aim of this paper is to offer some possible ways of solving word problems in lower secondary school education. Many studies have shown that pupils in lower secondary school education (age 13-14) encounter difficulties with learning algebra. Therefore they mainly use arithmetical and numerical checking methods to solve word problems. By numerical checking methods we mean guess-and-check and trial-anderror. We will give a detailed presentation of the false position method. In our opinion this method is useful in the loweer secondary school educational processes, especially to reduce the great number of random trial-and-error problem solving attempts among the primary school pupils. We will also show the results of some problem solving activities among 19 grade 8 pupils at our school. We analysed their problem solving strategies and compared our findings with the results of other research works.
Comparing various functions of the divisors of an integer in different residue classes
Authors: Kézér Ildikó
Published: May 2017

The main goal of this paper is to investigate some problems related to the distribution of the divisors of a number in different residue classes. We study these questions modulo 3, and use mostly just elementary number theory. In some special cases, we demonstrate how this problem is related to other fields of maths, especially to combinatorics. Since the author is also a secondary school teacher, we use elementary methods that can be discussed in secondary school, mainly within the framework of group study sessions or in special maths classes. We do think that the investigation of these types of questions can motivate children to find their own way to create their own questions, and to get a deeper insight into problem solving by these experimentations.
A Note on the Structure of Roller Coaster Permutations
Authors: Adamczak William
Published: May 2017

In this paper we consider the structure of a special class of permutations known as roller coaster permutations, first introduced by Ahmed & Snevily (2013). A roller coaster permutation is described as, a permutation that maximizes the total switches from ascending to descending, or visa versa, for the permutation as well as all of its subpermutations, simultaneously. This paper looks at the structure of these permutations, particularly the alternating structure, what the entires of these permutations can look like, we then introduce a notion of a condition stronger than alternating that we shall refer to as recursively alternating.
La producción de agua desalinizada en las regiones de Murcia y Valencia. Balance de un recurso alternativo con luces y sombras
Authors: Morote Seguido Álvaro Francisco , Rico Amorós Antonio Manuel , Moltó Mantero Enrique
Published: May 2017

El litoral de las regiones de Murcia y Valencia ha sufrido grandes transformaciones territoriales durante las últimas décadas, debido a la fuerte expansión de las funciones residenciales, turísticas y de servicios. El Plan Hidrológico Nacional (2001) y, en mayor medida, el Programa A.G.U.A. (2004) apostaron por la desalinización de agua marina a gran escala para garantizar demandas urbanas, turísticas e incluso agrícolas. La paralización de los planes urbanísticos provocada por la crisis financiera (2007), unida a la tendencia de reducción del consumo de agua potable de la última década, evidencian una capacidad de producción de agua desalinizada muy superior a las necesidades del momento presente. Esta investigación revisa la situación actual de la desalinización de agua marina y salobre continental en las regiones de Murcia y Valencia, hace balance de sus ventajas e inconvenientes y plantea una discusión en torno al papel que puede desempeñar esta fuente no convencional como recurso estratégico y de futuro para garantizar demandas urbano-turísticas y agrícolas, principalmente durante situaciones de sequía.
Características espaciales y cambios recientes en las aldeas periurbanas de «La tribu de las hormigas» en Beijing: Los casos de estudio de Tangjialing y Shigezhuang
Authors: Gu Chaolin , Sheng Mingjie , Hu Lingqian
Published: May 2017

En relación con el proceso de urbanización de China, desde el año 2000, se ha prestado atención principalmente a dos grupos sociales. Uno está constituido por la segunda generación de trabajadores agrícolas migrantes y otro, por los graduados universitarios de bajos ingresos, conocido como «La tribu de las hormigas» («The ant tribe»). En los últimos años, las condiciones de supervivencia en las megalópolis chinas de los segundos han empeorado. Por eso, como estrategia de supervivencia, muchos de ellos optan por residir en viviendas más asequibles, aunque de calidad inferior, en los pueblos o aldeas periurbanas y no en las ciudades, cada vez más caras y polarizadas. Este trabajo analiza las características espaciales y los cambios registrados en las aldeas periurbanas de «La tribu de las hormigas» de Tangjialing y Shigezhuang, en Beijing. En primer lugar, el artículo describe las características espaciales de los graduados de bajos ingresos que proceden principalmente de zonas rurales, tienen un nivel de educación alto y adoptan modos de vida urbanos. En segundo lugar, el artículo analiza los efectos socioespaciales y los cambios recientes surgidos a raíz de la reconstrucción de las aldeas periurbanas. A partir de estos análisis, se demostrará que los jóvenes titulados de bajos ingresos son desplazados hacia áreas periurbanas más pobres y alejadas, por el proceso de revalorización residencial de los suburbios.
De la inmigración a la «diversidad»: Para una reflexión sobre términos, categorías y problemáticas de análisis
Authors: Cohen Amselem Arón
Published: May 2017

Un decenio de inmigración masiva, inusitadamente acelerada y de las más variadas procedencias geográficas, ha aportado nueva diversidad a la población española. Una acepción «étnica» de este término, arraigada en ámbitos norteamericanos y anglosajones, se ha ido precisando con creciente nitidez en los análisis de la inmigración realizados por las ciencias sociales de Europa y de España. A través de palabras y de categorías, se expresan problemáticas de estudio y modos de abordarlos. Tomando como referentes trabajos recientes sobre distribuciones territoriales de la inmigración en España, particularmente en entornos urbanos y metropolitanos, este artículo propone una discusión de enfoques, denominaciones y clasificaciones que sitúan el punto de mira en un tipo específico de «diferencia» poblacional: sus criterios, sus modus operandi y sus elecciones, así como algunas de sus implicaciones. Las percepciones sociales de las migraciones (inmigración y emigración), además de los contextos y las condiciones de estas, son componentes indispensables del debate planteado.
Amenós, Joan (2015). El mito legal de la ciudad compacta
Authors: Nel·lo i Colom Oriol
Published: May 2017

Amenós, Joan (2015) El mito legal de la ciudad compacta Bellaterra: Servei de Publicacions de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 167 p.ISBN 978-84-490-5674-1
Greene, Ricardo (ed.) (2014). Ciudad Fritanga
Authors: Trimano Luciana Geraldine
Published: May 2017

Greene, Ricardo (ed.) (2014) Ciudad Fritanga Santiago de Chile: Bifurcaciones, 205 p. ISBN 9569501006
Why occupy République? Redefining French citizenship from a Parisian square
Authors: Hancock Claire
Published: May 2017

This paper discusses the recent occupation of the place de la République of Paris by the Nuit Debout movement, working with the assumption that it casts light on the shortcomings of French republican citizenship. Starting with the premise that space matters, it examines the major redevelopment project that the square underwent between 2008 and 2013, reflecting on the possible relation with the gentrification of the Eastern neighbourhoods of Paris. The paper then draws on what is known of the participants in the Nuit Debout movement to question its attempts, but ultimate failure, to fully include figures that were alien to the archetype of the French citizen, women, and people of colour. Despite efforts made to overcome the centralized nature of the movement and to reach out to the concerns of working-class peripheral neighbourhoods, the highly symbolic and central space of the place de la République spatially embodied the exclusionary nature, and violence, of the French public sphere.
Challenges and solutions in speech-language pathology service delivery across Australia and Canada
Authors: Lim Jacqueline , McCabe Patricia , Purcell Alison
Published: May 2017

Background, aims and objectives: This study aimed to compare the perception of barriers to service delivery among speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in Canada and Australia and the extent to which they used parent or carer training to overcome these barriers.  Methods: Participants were 81 Australian and 63 Canadian SLPs who completed an online survey. Questions comprised open ended and forced choice questions with some ranking of questions also required. Chi-square analyses were conducted comparing Canadian and Australian SLPs.  Results: Few differences existed among the respondents. Respondents overwhelmingly selected “not enough speech-language pathology positions to meet demand” as their main barrier. This barrier along with “parents/carer’s lack of knowledge about the need for speech-language pathology”, “lack of parent/carer engagement” and “lack of awareness of role of speech-language pathologist” were the principal barriers. Training parents and carers to conduct therapy at home was the most used strategy among both Canadian and Australian SLPs.  Discussion: The finding that the SLPs perceive low engagement from parents both in the training sessions and when working with their child may suggest that there is a need for speech-language pathologists to determine more effective ways to train and engage parents and carers.  Conclusion: More research into the efficacy of parent or carer training across a wider range of speech-language pathology practice areas and across a more diverse range of parents or carers needs to be undertaken.
Evaluation of patient satisfaction with HIV/AIDS care and treatment: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ahmed Syed Imran , Ramach Ashvinni , Ahmadi Keivan , Hasan Syed Shahzad , Lee Christopher KC
Published: May 2017

Background, aims and objectives: Patient experience influences the adherence to therapy and achievement of treatment outcomes, supplementing traditional indicators such as care processes and survival outcomes. This study aimed to examine the effect of relationship with healthcare providers on patient satisfaction.  Methods: A cross-sectional study carried out at an HIV outpatient clinic from August 2013 to October 2013. Patients were interviewed using a questionnaire adapted and contextualised from an online database. The questionnaire covered aspects related to healthcare providers’ attitude and knowledge, clinic services, patient autonomy and dignity, characteristics of healthcare providers as well as the sociodemographic backgrounds of the participants. A R® program for statistical computing was used for data analysis. Results: Satisfaction with healthcare providers and respect for patient autonomy contributed the most to overall patient satisfaction, influencing 35% of the observed variance in patient responses. Clinic services and independent characteristics of healthcare providers also had minor roles in influencing patient experience. Social components outweighed clinical components in terms of sociodemographic influence on perceived quality of care. Education levels (p ≤ 0.05) and employment status (p ≤ 0.1) were significant determinants of patient experience; however, they were the only two sociodemographics associated with patient satisfaction. Other social and all clinical factors were not significantly associated with patient experience. Conclusion: Relationship with healthcare providers as well as the degree to which patient autonomy is maintained are the most important determinant of patient satisfaction. Overall, social components have more prominent roles in influencing patient satisfaction compared to clinical components.
Is having a trusting doctor-patient relationship better for patients’ health?
Authors: Birkhäuer Johanna , Gaab Jens , Calnan Michael
Published: May 2017

Is having a trusting doctor-patient relationship better for patients’ health?
Tortonian teleost otoliths from northern Italy: taxonomic synthesis and stratigraphic significance
Authors: Lin Chien-Hsiang , Brzobohatý Rotislav , Nolf Dirk , Girone Angela
Published: May 2017

The Tortonian fish otoliths of northern Italy have been studied for more than a century and represent one of the best known otolith-based teleost faunas in the Miocene of the Mediterranean Basin. Yet with the growing knowledge on Recent otoliths, an updated taxonomic overview of this fauna is needed. Moreover, new material from hemipelagic Tortonian marls sampled at nine localities is described herein, revealing 109 taxa of which 88 are recognised at species level. Four of these are new: Coryphaenoides biobtusus sp. nov., “Merluccius” rattazzii sp. nov., Neobythites auriculatus sp. nov. and Lesueurigobius stironensis sp. nov. The compilation of previously studied and newly acquired material revealed a total of 118 nominal Tortonian species. At generic level, the fauna is characterised by many modern forms; more than 90% can be assigned to present day genera. At species level, however, more than half of the represented taxa are extinct. Based on the fossil otolith record, the Tortonian fauna of the Mediterranean is most similar to that of the Langhian (Badenian) of the Central Paratethys by sharing many extinct Miocene species, but it is also very close to that of the Pliocene Mediterranean, by sharing many modern Atlantic-Mediterranean forms. The Tortonian fauna is further characterised by many species that are apparently confined to the upper Miocene, resulting in a unique combination of its taxonomic composition.
Pathology of Chronic Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis What Is It? What Are the Diagnostic Criteria? Why Do We Care?
Authors: Churg Andrew , Bilawich AnaMaria , Wright Joanne L.
Published: May 2017

Context.—

Chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP) has emerged from obscurity during the past 15 years and is now recognized as a very common form of fibrosing interstitial pneumonia but one that is frequently misdiagnosed both clinically and on surgical lung biopsy as usual interstitial pneumonia/idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (UIP/IPF) or fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia.

Objective.—

To review the pathologic features of CHP.

Data Sources.—

Clinical, pathology, and radiology literature were used.

Conclusions.—

Upper lobe–predominant fibrosis and/or air-trapping on computed tomography scan are features of CHP but not UIP/IPF; however, radiologic separation is possible in only about 50% of cases. Morphologically, CHP sometimes mimics UIP/IPF, but CHP often shows isolated foci of peribronchiolar (centrilobular) fibrosis, frequently associated with fibroblast foci, and in CHP, fibrosis may bridge from the centrilobular region to another bronchiole, an interlobular septum, or the pleura (“bridging fibrosis”). This set of findings is uncommon in UIP/IPF. In addition, CHP may produce a picture of fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia. Although giant cells/granulomas are usually present in subacute hypersensitivity pneumonitis, they are much less frequently found in CHP, and their absence does not contradict the diagnosis. This diagnostic separation is clinically important because CHP is treated differently than UIP/IPF is (immunosuppressive agents versus antifibrotic agents); further, there are some data to suggest that removing the patient from antigen exposure improves outcome, and there is evidence that patients with CHP have a much better survival prognosis after lung transplantation than do patients with UIP/IPF. In most cases, accurate diagnosis of CHP requires consultation among clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists.
Analysis of Water Infrastructure for Midsize and Large Cities with Declining Populations
Authors: Thomas Swati Sheladia , Iott Susan
Published: May 2017

A recent gao report describes the infrastructure challenges in us cities where populations have declined since 1980.
The dynamic three-dimensional organization of the diploid yeast genome
Authors: Kim Seungsoo , Liachko Ivan , Brickner Donna G , Cook Kate , Noble William S , Brickner Jason H , Shendure Jay , Dunham Maitreya J
Published: May 2017

The budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is a long-standing model for the three-dimensional organization of eukaryotic genomes. However, even in this well-studied model, it is unclear how homolog pairing in diploids or environmental conditions influence overall genome organization. Here, we performed high-throughput chromosome conformation capture on diverged Saccharomyces hybrid diploids to obtain the first global view of chromosome conformation in diploid yeasts. After controlling for the Rabl-like orientation using a polymer model, we observe significant homolog proximity that increases in saturated culture conditions. Surprisingly, we observe a localized increase in homologous interactions between the HAS1-TDA1 alleles specifically under galactose induction and saturated growth. This pairing is accompanied by relocalization to the nuclear periphery and requires Nup2, suggesting a role for nuclear pore complexes. Together, these results reveal that the diploid yeast genome has a dynamic and complex 3D organization.
APOL1 renal risk variants have contrasting resistance and susceptibility associations with African trypanosomiasis
Authors: Cooper Anneli , Ilboudo Hamidou , Alibu V Pius , Ravel Sophie , Enyaru John , Weir William , Noyes Harry , Capewell Paul , Camara Mamadou , Milet Jacqueline , Jamonneau Vincent , Camara Oumou , Matovu Enock , Bucheton Bruno , MacLeod Annette
Published: May 2017

Reduced susceptibility to infectious disease can increase the frequency of otherwise deleterious alleles. In populations of African ancestry, two apolipoprotein-L1 (APOL1) variants with a recessive kidney disease risk, named G1 and G2, occur at high frequency. APOL1 is a trypanolytic protein that confers innate resistance to most African trypanosomes, but not Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense or T.b. gambiense, which cause human African trypanosomiasis. In this case-control study, we test the prevailing hypothesis that these APOL1 variants reduce trypanosomiasis susceptibility, resulting in their positive selection in sub-Saharan Africa. We demonstrate a five-fold dominant protective association for G2 against T.b. rhodesiense infection. Furthermore, we report unpredicted strong opposing associations with T.b. gambiense disease outcome. G2 associates with faster progression of T.b. gambiense trypanosomiasis, while G1 associates with asymptomatic carriage and undetectable parasitemia. These results implicate both forms of human African trypanosomiasis in the selection and persistence of otherwise detrimental APOL1 kidney disease variants.
Downregulation of miR‐199a/b‐5p is associated with GCNT2 induction upon epithelial–mesenchymal transition in colon cancer
Authors: Chao Chia‐Chun , Wu Po‐Han , Huang Hsiang‐Chi , Chung Hsiao‐Yu , Chou Yu‐Chi , Cai Bi‐He , Kannagi Reiji
Published: May 2017

β‐1,6‐N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferase 2 (GCNT2), which encodes a key glycosyltransferase for blood group I antigen synthesis, is induced upon epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Our results indicate that GCNT2 is upregulated upon EMT induced with epidermal growth factor and basic FGF in cultured human colon cancer cells. GCNT2 knockdown or overexpression decreases or increases, respectively, malignancy‐related characteristics of colon cancer cells and I antigen levels. MiR‐199a/b‐5p is markedly downregulated upon EMT in colon cancer cells. Here, we find that miR‐199a/b‐5p consistently regulates GCNT2 expression in reporter assays and that it binds directly to the GCNT2 3′ untranslated region intracellularly in RNA‐induced silencing complex‐trap assays. Overexpression of miR‐199a/b‐5p decreases GCNT2 expression and suppresses I antigen production. Based on these findings, we propose that miR‐199a/b‐5p regulates GCNT2 and I antigen expression in colon cancer cells undergoing EMT.
Real‐time monitoring of nutrients in the Changjiang Estuary reveals short‐term nutrient‐algal bloom dynamics
Authors: Wang Kui , Chen Jianfang , Ni Xiaobo , Zeng Dingyong , Li Dewang , Jin Haiyan , Glibert Patricia M. , Qiu Wenxian , Huang Daji
Published: May 2017

The Changjiang Estuary is a large‐river estuary ecosystem in the East China Sea, and its plume, the Changjiang Diluted Water (CDW), transports a large mass of nutrients (
 + 
,
,
) to the shelf sea, leading to substantial eutrophication; the CDW also supports high primary production. However, relationships between nutrient delivery and phytoplankton responses have been difficult to establish, as many nutrient delivery events and algal blooms are episodic, and the CDW may expand or become detached with changing winds. To study the relationship between nutrient delivery events, algal blooms and estuarine metabolism dynamics, a buoy system was deployed in the CDW from 9 September to 10 October 2013, with measurements of chlorophyll a and dissolved nutrients. Day‐to‐day nutrient increases covaried with salinity decreases, regulated by both the spring‐neap tidal cycle and wind events. Several specific nutrient injection periods were detected, each followed by nutrient drawdown and chlorophyll a accumulation (algal blooms). Each algal bloom had its own unique pattern of nutrient uptake based on change in nutrient ratios (ΔN:ΔP; ΔN:ΔSi) and appeared to be dominated by different algal groups. These events occurred under weak wind and stable hydrodynamic conditions. Ecosystem metabolism based on net community production (NCP) showed that the upper estuarine ecosystem was autotrophic when chlorophyll a accumulated, but heterotrophic when wind‐induced mixing strengthened, and upwelling brought organic‐rich water to the near surface. In spite of several short‐lived algal blooms, the average NCPdaily was negative during the observation period, indicating a net source of CO2 to the atmosphere.
Dense water formation in the north‐western Mediterranean area during HyMeX‐SOP2 in 1/36° ocean simulations: Ocean‐atmosphere coupling impact
Authors: Lebeaupin Brossier Cindy , Léger Fabien , Giordani Hervé , Beuvier Jonathan , Bouin Marie‐Noëlle , Ducrocq Véronique , Fourrié Nadia
Published: May 2017

The north‐western Mediterranean Sea is a key location for the thermohaline circulation of the basin. The area is characterized by intense air‐sea exchanges favored by the succession of strong northerly and north‐westerly wind situations (mistral and tramontane) in autumn and winter. Such meteorological conditions lead to significant evaporation and ocean heat loss that are well known as the main triggering factor for the Dense Water Formation (DWF) and winter deep convection episodes. During the HyMeX second field campaign (SOP2, 1 February to 15 March 2013), several platforms were deployed in the area in order to document the DWF and the ocean deep convection, as the air‐sea interface conditions. This study investigates the role of the ocean‐atmosphere coupling on DWF during winter 2012–2013. The coupled system, based on the NEMO‐WMED36 ocean model (1/36° resolution) and the AROME‐WMED atmospheric model (2.5 km resolution), was run during 2 months covering the SOP2 and is compared to an ocean‐only simulation forced by AROME‐WMED real‐time forecasts and to observations collected in the north‐western Mediterranean area during the HyMeX SOP2. The comparison shows small differences in terms of net heat, water, and momentum fluxes. On average, DWF is slightly sensitive to air‐sea coupling. However, fine‐scale ocean processes, such as shelf DWF and export or eddies and fronts at the rim of the convective patch, are significantly modified. The wind‐current interactions constitute an efficient coupled process at fine scale, acting as a turbulence propagating vectors, producing large mixing and convection at the rim of the convective patch.
Seasonal and interannual variability in along‐slope oceanic properties off the US West Coast: Inferences from a high‐resolution regional model
Authors: Kurapov A. L. , Pelland N. A. , Rudnick D. L.
Published: May 2017

A 6 year, 2009–2014 simulation using a 2 km horizontal resolution ocean circulation model of the Northeast Pacific coast is analyzed with focus on seasonal and interannual variability in along‐slope subsurface oceanic properties. Specifically, the fields are sampled on the isopycnal surface
kg m−3 that is found between depths of 150 and 300 m below the ocean surface over the continental slope. The fields analyzed include the depth
, temperature
, along‐slope current
, and the average potential vorticity PV between
26.5 and 26.25 kg m−3. Each field is averaged in the cross‐shore direction over the continental slope and presented as a function of the alongshore coordinate and time. The seasonal cycle in
shows a coherent upwelling‐downwelling pattern from Mexico to Canada propagating to the north with a speed of 0.5 m s−1. The anomalously deep (
m)
displacement in spring‐summer 2014 is forced by the southern boundary condition at 24°N as a manifestation of an emerging strong El Niño. The seasonal cycle in
is most pronounced between 36°N and 53°N indicating that subarctic waters are replaced by warmer Californian waters in summer with the speed close 0.15 m s−1, which is consistent with earlier estimates of the undercurrent speed and also present
analyses. The seasonal patterns and anomalies in
and
find confirmation in available long‐term glider and shipborne observations. The PV seasonality over the slope is qualitatively different to the south and north of the southern edge of Heceta Bank (43.9°N).
Mechanism of Na‐Ion Storage in Hard Carbon Anodes Revealed by Heteroatom Doping
Authors: Li Zhifei , Bommier Clement , Chong Zhi Sen , Jian Zelang , Surta Todd Wesley , Wang Xingfeng , Xing Zhenyu , Neuefeind Joerg C. , Stickle William F. , Dolgos Michelle , Greaney P. Alex , Ji Xiulei
Published: May 2017

Hard carbon is the leading candidate anode for commercialization of Na‐ion batteries. Hard carbon has a unique local atomic structure, which is composed of nanodomains of layered rumpled sheets that have short‐range local order resembling graphene within each layer, but complete disorder along the c‐axis between layers. A primary challenge holding back the development of Na‐ion batteries is that a complete understanding of the structure–capacity correlations of Na‐ion storage in hard carbon has remained elusive. This article presents two key discoveries: first, the characteristics of hard carbons structure can be modified systematically by heteroatom doping, and second, that these structural changes greatly affect Na‐ion storage properties, which reveals the mechanisms for Na storage in hard carbon. Specifically, via P or S doping, the interlayer spacing is dilated, which extends the low‐voltage plateau capacity, while increasing the defect concentrations with P or B doping leads to higher sloping sodiation capacity. The combined experimental studies and first principles calculations reveal that it is the Na‐ion‐defect binding that corresponds to the sloping capacity, while the Na intercalation between graphenic layers causes the low‐potential plateau capacity. The understanding suggests a new design principle of hard carbon anode: more reversibly binding defects and dilated turbostratic domains, given that the specific surface area is maintained low.
Heart assist devices and their impact on arterial Doppler: When the waveform appears flat or serrated
Authors: Wang Yi
Published: May 2017

Objective

The purpose of this article was to review the principal mechanisms of three types of heart assist devices, to explore their haemodynamic impacts on spectral Doppler and to discuss the associated challenges in diagnostic ultrasound.

Conclusion

Heart assist devices are used in patients with advanced heart failure as bridge to transplantation or destination therapy. The arterial Doppler waveform features can be altered after the implantation of the devices. A continuous‐flow device converts the arterial waveform into a venous‐like waveform with a mean velocity that can be used in stenosis evaluation. When the pulsatile device produces extra pulses between the natural heartbeats, together they produce serrated arterial waveforms. When the pulsatile device serves as the only pumping source, the arterial waveforms are similar to the natural ones. Colour Doppler features are maintained despite all the spectral Doppler changes. These devices can affect both ultrasound scanning and interpretation. Therefore, it is essential to understand the principal mechanisms of these devices and their haemodynamic impacts so that an accurate ultrasound diagnosis can be made.
Intranasal distribution and clearance of thermoreversible gel in an animal model
Authors: Choi Ji Eun , Kim Ki Ryung , Noh Yangseop , Chung Won‐Ho , Cho Yang‐Sun , Chung Seung‐Kyu , Dhong Hun‐Jong , Kim Hyo Yeol
Published: May 2017

Background

Poloxamer 407 (P407) has been investigated for an intranasal drug delivery system. However, there is little known about the distribution and clearance of intranasally applied P407. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the distribution and clearance time of P407 in an animal model.

Methods

Five male pigs were administered the experimental solution (18% of P407 with 0.01% of fluorescein) and the control solution (normal saline with 0.01% of fluorescein) into their right and left nasal cavity, respectively. For quantitative analysis, endoscopic images of each nasal cavity were taken immediately and at 10, 20, 30, and 60 minutes after intranasal administration.

Results

The experimental group showed a significantly wider distribution of fluorescein than the control group at 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The experimental group also showed a significantly higher mean intensity of fluorescein than the control group at 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The mean intensity in the control group was significantly decreased during 30 minutes but the mean intensity in the experimental group was significantly decreased during 60 minutes.

Conclusion

A substantial amount of P407 remained in the nasal cavity for at least 30 minutes post‐application.
Computational fluid dynamics evaluation of posterior septectomy as a viable treatment option for large septal perforations
Authors: Otto Bradley A. , Li Chengyu , Farag Alexander A. , Bush Benjamin , Krebs Jillian P. , Hutcheson Ryan D. , Kim Kanghyun , Deshpande Bhakthi , Zhao Kai
Published: May 2017

Background

Numerous surgical techniques exist to treat nasal septal perforation (NSP). The surgical closure of large NSPs (>2 cm) is still challenging. Posterior septectomy has been reported as a simple alternative to treat large NSP, yet its mechanisms for symptom relief are not clear, and if failed, its consequence cannot be easily reversed.

Methods

Ten NSP patients were recruited: 5 underwent posterior septectomy and 5 underwent conventional flap or button repair. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulated the nasal aerodynamics based on computed tomography (CT) scans. All patients had preoperative CT; however, only 4 had postoperative CT: 2 underwent posterior septectomy and the other 2 underwent flap repair. We examined surgical outcomes and the nasal airflow features among the 2 treatment options.

Results

Both groups of patients had good outcomes based on chart review. Patients undergoing septectomy had significantly larger perforation size (2.32 ± 0.87 vs 1.21 ± 0.60 cm), higher flow rate across the perforation (47.8 ± 28.6 vs 18.3 ± 12.2 mL/second), and higher wall shear stress (WSS) along the posterior perforation margin (1.39 ± 0.52 vs 1.15 ± 0.58 Pa). The posterior WSS significantly correlated with crossover flow velocity (r = 0.77, p = 0.009) and was reduced by almost 67% postseptectomy, and by 29% postrepair.

Conclusion

This is the first CFD analysis on an NSP patient cohort. NSP resulted in flow disturbance and increased WSS that potentially led to symptomatology. The removal of high stress points along the posterior margin may explain why posterior septectomy can be an effective treatment option. Aerodynamic abnormalities, in addition to perforation size and location, could serve as basis for future treatment decisions.
Die Kohlenmonoxid‐Dehydrogenase reduziert Cyanat zu Cyanid
Authors: Ciaccafava Alexandre , Tombolelli Daria , Domnik Lilith , Jeoung Jae‐Hun , Dobbek Holger , Mroginski Maria‐Andrea , Zebger Ingo , Hildebrandt Peter
Published: May 2017

Die Kohlenmonoxid‐Dehydrogenase (CODH) hat eine hohe Umweltrelevanz aufgrund ihrer Fähigkeit, CO2 biokatalytisch zu reduzieren. Trotz intensiver Bemühungen in den vergangenen Jahrzehnten ist der katalytische Mechanismus der CODH noch nicht vollständig aufgeklärt. In einer spektroskopischen und theoretischen Studie präsentieren wir nun erste Beweise für eine Reduktion von Cyanat (NCO−) zu Cyanid (CN−) am C‐Cluster. Das Addukt bleibt am katalytischen Zentrum gebunden und bildet den so genannten CN−‐inhibierten Zustand. Interessanterweise findet diese Umwandlung nicht in Kristallen von CODHIICh statt, was anhand des Fehlens der entsprechenden CN‐Streckschwingungsbanden belegt werden kann. Die Transformation von NCO−, eines Inhibitors des Cred2‐Zustands der CODH, könnte den CO2‐Umsatz nachahmen und auf diese Weise neue Perspektiven für die Aufklärung des genauen katalytischen Mechanismus der CODH bieten.
Enantioselective Nickel‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Allylic Alkenylations Enabled by Reversible Alkenylnickel E/Z Isomerization
Authors: Yap Connor , Lenagh‐Snow Gabriel M. J. , Karad Somnath Narayan , Lewis William , Diorazio Louis J. , Lam Hon Wai
Published: May 2017

Enantioselective nickel‐catalyzed arylative cyclizations of substrates containing a Z‐allylic phosphate tethered to an alkyne are described. These reactions give multisubstituted chiral aza‐ and carbocycles, and are initiated by the addition of an arylboronic acid to the alkyne, followed by cyclization of the resulting alkenylnickel species onto the allylic phosphate. The reversible E/Z isomerization of the alkenylnickel species is essential for the success of the reactions.
Layer‐by‐layer modification of porous polybenzoxazine with silver nanoparticles for enhanced CO2 storage
Authors: Manmuanpom Nicharat , Dubas Stephan Thierry , Wongkasemjit Sujitra , Chaisuwan Thanyalak
Published: May 2017

Polybenzoxazine (PBZ) xerogels have been synthesized via quasi solventless method and coated with silver nanoparticles using the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) deposition method. After coating, the samples were carbonized at 800 °C to obtain high surface area porous carbon materials to be used for CO2 storage. Evidences of the successful LbL deposition of the coating was provided by ultraviolet–visible and attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the silver nanoparticles top layer was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Results showed that the samples coated with silver nanoparticles displayed an increased CO2 capacity from 3.02 to 3.39 mmol g−1 when compared with the plain carbon PBZ. The LbL method for the modification of the pore surface in porous PBZ is simple and allows the facile tuning of the inner PBZ pore's surface chemistry with metallic nanoparticles that could be enhanced CO2 storage capacity. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45097.
Brief Report: Deficiency of Complement 1r Subcomponent in Early‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: The Role of Disease‐Modifying Alleles in a Monogenic Disease
Authors: Demirkaya Erkan , Zhou Qing , Smith Carolyne K. , Ombrello Michael J. , Deuitch Natalie , Tsai Wanxia L. , Hoffmann Patrycja , Remmers Elaine F. , Takeuchi Masaki , Park Yong Hwan , Chae JaeJin , Barut Kenan , Simsek Dogan , Adrovic Amra , Sahin Sezgin , Caliskan Salim , Chandrasekharappa Settara C. , Hasni Sarfaraz A. , Ombrello Amanda K. , Gadina Massimo , Kastner Daniel L. , Kaplan Mariana J. , Kasapcopur Ozgur , Aksentijevich Ivona
Published: May 2017

Objective

To identify a genetic cause of early‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a large consanguineous family from Turkey and to study the mechanisms of the disease.

Methods

We performed whole‐exome sequencing and single‐nucleotide polymorphism array genotyping in family members with and without SLE. Protein and gene expression, cytokine profile, neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, and presence of low‐density granulocytes were evaluated in patient primary cells and serum samples.

Results

We identified a novel, homozygous, loss‐of‐function mutation (p.Pro445Leufs*11) in the C1R gene. Using the Sanger method of DNA sequencing in 14 family members, we confirmed the presence of the mutation in 4 patients with SLE and in an asymptomatic 9‐year‐old girl. Complement levels were low in sera from patients with truncated C1r protein. Two siblings with SLE who were available for detailed evaluation exhibited strong type I interferon (IFN) inflammatory signatures despite their disease being clinically inactive at the time of sampling. The type I IFN transcriptional signature in the patients’ blood correlated with disease expressivity, whereas the neutrophil signature in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was likely associated with disease severity. The female patient with SLE with the most severe phenotype presented with a stronger neutrophil signature, defined by enhanced NET formation and the presence of low‐density granulocytes. Analysis of exome data for modifying alleles suggested enrichment of common SLE‐associated variants in the more severely affected patients. Lupus‐associated HLA alleles or HLA haplotypes were not shared among the 4 affected subjects.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed a novel high‐penetrance mutation in C1R as the cause of monogenic SLE. Disease expressivity in this family appears to be influenced by additional common and rare genetic variants.
Unprovoked seizures in multiple sclerosis: Why are they rare?
Authors: Kavčič Anamarija , Hofmann Werner E.
Published: May 2017

Introduction

The frequency of seizures in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) ranges from 1.5% to 7.8% and is considerably more common than chance events. The etiopathogenesis of seizures in MS is still poorly understood.

Method

A review of the literature on seizures and MS using PubMed.

Results

Cortical gray matter involvement appears to be an all‐too‐common pathological finding in MS to play a primary role in the pathogenesis of seizures in MS patients. There is no clear relationship between seizures and the severity of MS. In approximately 10% of cases, a seizure is actually an initial neurological symptom of MS.

Conclusion

Searching for coherence in the occurrence of unprovoked seizures in MS directs attention to the dichotomy in MS pathology characterized by a complex intertwining of neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative processes. The appearance (or nonappearance) of seizures in MS in relation to disease activity and disease progression indicates a distinct clinical phenotype of MS that opens up new perspectives in MS research.
The Role of Gas in Determining Image Quality and Resolution During In Situ Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Experiments
Authors: Zhu Yuanyuan , Browning Nigel D.
Published: May 2017

As gas–solid heterogeneous catalytic reactions are molecular in nature, a full mechanistic understanding of the process requires atomic‐scale characterization under realistic operating conditions. Although atomic resolution imaging has become routine in modern high‐vacuum (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM), both image quality and resolution nominally degrade on introduction of the reaction gases. In this work, we systematically assess the effects of different gases at various pressures on the quality and resolution of images obtained at room temperature in the annular dark field STEM imaging mode by using a differentially pumped (DP) gas cell. This imaging mode is largely free from inelastic scattering effects induced by the presence of gases and retains good imaging properties over a wide range of gas mass/pressures. We demonstrate the application of ESTEM with atomic resolution images for a complex oxide alkane oxidation catalyst MoVNbTeOx (M1) immersed in light and heavy gas environments.
A Fe/Mn‐Based Prussian Blue Analogue as a K‐Rich Cathode Material for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Jiang Xi , Zhang Tianran , Yang Liuqing , Li Guochun , Lee Jim Yang
Published: May 2017

The reversible intercalation of K+ into graphite has spurred interest in new rechargeable battery chemistries based on potassium ions. The viability of commercializing potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) is critically dependent on the availability of pre‐potassiated cathode materials, and the compatibility between the electrolyte and electrode components; which have yet to be fully explored. Herein, we report a Fe and Mn based K‐rich Prussian Blue analogue, which can be used as the cathode of rechargeable KIBs to deliver 115 mAh/g of discharge capacity with two voltage plateaus at 3.9 and 4.1 V vs. K+/K in an electrolyte with fluoroethylene carbonate additive. In half‐cell studies, the cyclability of this Prussian Blue analogue was found to depend on the formation of a passivation layer on the anode and the decomposition of the active electrode material at the cathode. This study demonstrates the importance of electrode−electrolyte compatibility in the development of new rechargeable battery chemistries, especially when the evaluation is based on half‐cell studies where potassium metal is used.
A surface molecularly imprinted polymer as chiral stationary phase for chiral separation of 1,1′‐binaphthalene‐2‐naphthol racemates
Authors: Dong Hongxing , Zhang Danxia , Lin Hailong , Wang Yudan , Liu Lijia , Zheng Meixia , Li Xiaobo , Zhang Chunhong , Li Junqing , Zhang Peng , So Juhyok
Published: May 2017

Acrylamide (AM) was copolymerized with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA) in the presence of (R)‐1,1′‐binaphthalene‐2‐naphthol (BINOL) as the template molecules on the surface of silica gel by a free radical polymerization to produce a chiral stationary phase based on the surface molecularly imprinted polymer (SMIP‐CSP). The SMIP‐CSP showed a much better separation factor (α = 4.28) than the CSP based on the molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP‐CSP) without coating on the silica gel (α = 1.96) during the chiral separation of BINOL enantiomers by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The influence of the pretreatment temperature and the content of the template molecule ((R)‐BINOL) of the SMIP‐CSP, and the mobile phase composition on the separation of the racemic BINOL were systematically investigated.