bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and seasonal variations of aerosols over China from two decades of multi-satellite observations. Part I: ATSR (1995–2011) and MODIS C6.1 (2000–2017)
Authors: Sogacheva Larisa , de Leeuw Gerrit , Rodriguez Edith , Kolmonen Pekka , Georgoulias Aristeidis K. , Alexandri Georgia , Kourtidis Konstantinos , Proestakis Emmanouil , Marinou Eleni , Amiridis Vassilis , Xue Yong , van der A Ronald J.
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Aerosol optical depth (AOD) patterns and interannual and seasonal variations over China are discussed based on the AOD retrieved from the Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (ATSR-2, 1995–2002), the Advanced ATSR (AATSR, 2002–2012) (together ATSR) and the Moderate Resolution Imaging spectrometer (MODIS) aboard the Terra satellite (2000–2017). The AOD products used were the ATSR Dual View (ADV) v2.31 AOD and MODIS/Terra Collection 6.1 (C6.1) merged dark target (DT) and deep blue (DB) AOD product. Together these data sets provide an AOD time series for 23 years, from 1995 to 2017. Differences between the MODIS C6.1 and C6 AOD products with respect to AOD coverage and validation with Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) over China are briefly discussed, showing better validation results for C6.1: the correlation coefficient has increased from 0.9 in C6 to 0.92 in C6.1; bias has been slightly lowered from 0.007 to 0.006. ADV and MODIS AOD validation results show similar high correlation with AERONET AOD (0.88 and 0.92, respectively), while the corresponding bias is positive for MODIS (0.06) and negative for ADV (−0.07). Validation of the AOD products in similar conditions, when ATSR and MODIS/Terra overpasses are within 90 minutes from each other and when both ADV and MODIS retrieve AOD, show that ADV performs better than MODIS in autumn, while MODIS performs slightly better in spring and summer. In winter, both ADV and MODIS underestimate AERONET AOD. Similar AOD patterns are observed by ADV and MODIS in annual and seasonal aggregates. ADV-MODIS difference maps show that MODIS AOD is generally higher than that from ADV. During the period 1995–2006, AOD was increasing in the SE of China. Between 2006 and 2011, AOD was not changing much, showing minor minima in 2008–2009. From 2011 onward, AOD is decreasing in the SE of China. Both ADV and MODIS show similar seasonal AOD behavior. The spring AOD maxima in the south is shifting from spring to summer along the eastern coast in the direction to the north. Similar patterns exist in year-to-year ADV and MODIS annual AOD tendencies in the overlapping period. The agreement between sensors in year-to-year AOD changes is quite good. The large AOD differences exist between regions, for both sensors. The consistency between ATSR and MODIS as regards the AOD tendencies in the overlapping period is rather strong in summer, autumn and overall for the yearly average, while in winter and spring, when there is a difference in coverage between the two instruments, the agreement in the AOD tendencies is lower.
No Robust Evidence of Future Changes in Major Stratospheric
Sudden Warmings: A Multi-model Assessment from CCMI
Authors: Ayarzagüena Blanca , Polvani Lorenzo M. , Langematz Ulrike , Akiyoshi Hideharu , Bekki Slimane , Butchart Neal , Dameris Martin , Deushi Makoto , Hardiman Steven C. , Jöckel Patrick , Klekociuk Andrew , Marchand Marion , Michou Martine , Morgenstern Olaf , O'Connor Fiona M. , Oman Luke D. , Plummer David A. , Revell Laura , Rozanov Eugene , Saint-Martin David , Scinocca John , Stenke Andrea , Stone Kane , Yamashita Yousuke , Yoshida Kohei , Zeng Guang
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Major mid-winter stratospheric sudden warmings (SSWs) are the largest instance of wintertime variability in the Arctic stratosphere. Because SSWs are able to cause significant surface weather anomalies on intra-seasonal time scales, several previous studies have focused on their potential future change, as might be induced by anthropogenic forcings. However, a wide range of results have been reported, from a future increase in the frequency of SSWs to an actual decrease. Several factors might explain these contradictory results, notably the use of different metrics for the identification of SSWs, and the impact of large climatological biases in single-model studies. To bring some clarity, we here revisit the question of future SSWs changes, using an identical set of metrics applied consistently across 12 different models participating in the Chemistry Climate Model Initiative. Our analysis reveals that no statistically significant change in the frequency of SSWs will occur over the 21st century, irrespective of the metric used for the identification of the event. Changes in other SSWs characteristics, such as their duration and the tropospheric forcing, are also assessed: again, we find no evidence of future changes over the 21st century.
Influence of photochemical aging on light absorption of atmospheric black carbon and aerosol single scattering albedo
Authors: Xu Xuezhe , Zhao Weixiong , Qian Xiaodong , Wang Shuo , Fang Bo , Zhang Qilei , Zhang Weijun , Venables Dean S. , Chen Weidong , Huang Yong , Deng Xueliang , Wu Biwen , Lin Xinfeng , Zhao Sen , Tong Yingxiang
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Coating enhancement of black carbon (BC) light absorption (Eabs) is a large uncertainty in modelling direct radiative forcing (DRF) by BC. Reported Eabs values after atmospheric aging vary widely and the mechanisms responsible for enhancing BC absorption remain elusive. Here, we report on the direct field measurement of size-resolved mixing state, Eabs and aerosol single scattering albedo (SSA) at λ = 532 nm at a rural site in East China from June to July 2016. Strong diurnal variability of Eabs, SSA, and Ox (Ox = NO2 + O3, a proxy for atmospheric photochemical aging) was observed. A three-stage absorption enhancement process for collapsed semispherical to fully compact spherical morphology BC with photochemical aging was suggested. For Ox below 35 ppbv, Eabs increased slowly with Ox mixing ratio and ranged from 2.0 to 2.2 (with a growth rate of ~ 0.03 ppbv−1). Eabs was stable (Eabs = 2.26 ± 0.06) between 35 to 50 ppbv Ox. Thirdly, for Ox levels above 50 ppbv, Eabs grew rapidly from 2.3 to 2.8 (at a growth rate of ~ 0.18 ppbv−1). A method that combined Eabs and SSA was developed to retrieve the fraction contribution of BC absorption (fBC), lensing driven enhancement (fLens), as well as the fractional contribution of coating absorption (fraction absorption contribution (fShell), the coated shell diameter (DShell) and the imaginary part of the complex refractive index (CRI) of the shell (kShell)). Parameterization of Eabs and SSA captures much of the influence of BC coating and the particle absorption, and provides a plausible new method to better constrain the contribution of BC to the DRF. In our measurements at this site, the absorption amplification depended mainly on the coating thickness and the absorption of coating materials. The lensing driven enhancement was reduced by light absorption of the shell. Our observations highlight the crucial role of photochemical processes in modifying the absorption of BC-containing particles. One implication of these findings is that the contribution of light-absorbing organic compounds (Brown carbon, BrC) at longer aging time should be included in climate models.
A new approach for GNSS tomography from a few GNSS stations
Authors: Ding Nan , Zhang Shubi , Wu Suqin , Wang Xiaoming , Kealy Allison , Zhang Kefei
Published: March 2018

Abstract. The determination of the distribution of water vapor in the atmosphere plays an important role in the atmospheric monitoring. Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) tomography can be used to construct 3D distribution of water vapor over the field covered by a GNSS network with high temporal and spatial resolutions. In current tomographic approaches, a pre-set fixed rectangular field that roughly covers the area of the distribution of the GNSS signals on the top plane of the tomographic field is commonly used for all tomographic epochs. Due to too many unknown parameters needing to be estimated, the accuracy of the tomographic solution degrades. Another issue of these approaches is their unsuitability for GNSS networks with a few stations as the shape of the field covered by the GNSS signals is in fact roughly an upside-down cone rather than the rectangular cube as the pre-set. In this study, a new approach for determination of tomographic fields fitting the real distribution of GNSS signals on different tomographic planes at different tomographic epochs and also for discretization of the tomographic fields based on the perimeter of the tomographic boundary on the plane and meshing techniques is proposed. The new approach was tested using three stations from the Hong Kong GNSS network and validated by comparing the tomographic results against radiosonde data from King's Park Meteorological Station (HKKP) during the one month period of May, 2015. Results indicated that the new approach is feasible for a three-station GNSS network tomography. This is significant due to the fact that the conventional approaches cannot even solve a few stations network tomography.
Small spatial variability in methane emission measured from a wet patterned boreal bog
Authors: Korrensalo Aino , Männistö Elisa , Alekseychik Pavel , Mammarella Ivan , Rinne Janne , Vesala Timo , Tuittila Eeva-Stiina
Published: March 2018

Abstract. We measured methane fluxes of a patterned bog situated in
Siikaneva in southern Finland from six different plant community types in
three growing seasons (2012–2014) using the static chamber method with
chamber exposure of 35 min. A mixed-effects model was applied to quantify
the effect of the controlling factors on the methane flux. The plant community types differed from each other in their water level,
species composition, total leaf area (LAITOT) and leaf area of
aerenchymatous plant species (LAIAER). Methane emissions ranged
from −309 to 1254 mg m−2 d−1. Although methane fluxes
increased with increasing peat temperature, LAITOT and
LAIAER, they had no correlation with water table or with plant
community type. The only exception was higher fluxes from hummocks and high
lawns than from high hummocks and bare peat surfaces in 2013 and from bare
peat surfaces than from high hummocks in 2014. Chamber fluxes upscaled to
ecosystem level for the peak season were of the same magnitude as the fluxes
measured with the eddy covariance (EC) technique. In 2012 and in August 2014
there was a good agreement between the two methods; in 2013 and in July 2014,
the chamber fluxes were higher than the EC fluxes. Net fluxes to soil, indicating higher methane oxidation than production, were
detected every year and in all community types. Our results underline the
importance of both LAIAER and LAITOT in controlling
methane fluxes and indicate the need for automatized chambers to reliably capture
localized events to support the more robust EC method.
New insights into the use of stable water isotopes at the northern Antarctic Peninsula as a tool for regional climate studies
Authors: Fernandoy Francisco , Tetzner Dieter , Meyer Hanno , Gacitúa Guisella , Hoffmann Kirstin , Falk Ulrike , Lambert Fabrice , MacDonell Shelley
Published: March 2018

Abstract. Due to recent atmospheric and oceanic warming, the Antarctic Peninsula is one of the most challenging regions of Antarctica to understand in terms of both local- and regional-scale climate signals. Steep topography and a lack of long-term and in situ meteorological observations complicate the extrapolation of existing climate models to the sub-regional scale. Therefore, new techniques must be developed to better understand processes operating in the region. Isotope signals are traditionally related mainly to atmospheric conditions, but a detailed analysis of individual components can give new insight into oceanic and atmospheric processes. This paper aims to use new isotopic records collected from snow and firn cores in conjunction with existing meteorological and oceanic datasets to determine changes at the climatic scale in the northern extent of the Antarctic Peninsula. In particular, a discernible effect of sea ice cover on local temperatures and the expression of climatic modes, especially the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), is demonstrated. In years with a large sea ice extension in winter (negative SAM anomaly), an inversion layer in the lower troposphere develops at the coastal zone. Therefore, an isotope–temperature relationship (δ–T) valid for all periods cannot be obtained, and instead the δ–T depends on the seasonal variability of oceanic conditions. Comparatively, transitional seasons (autumn and spring) have a consistent isotope–temperature gradient of +0.69 ‰ °C−1. As shown by firn core analysis, the near-surface temperature in the northern-most portion of the Antarctic Peninsula shows a decreasing trend (−0.33 °C year−1) between 2008 and 2014. In addition, the deuterium excess (dexcess) is demonstrated to be a reliable indicator of seasonal oceanic conditions, and therefore suitable to improve a firn age model based on seasonal dexcess variability. The annual accumulation rate in this region is highly variable, ranging between 1060 and 2470 kg m−2 year−1 from 2008 to 2014. The combination of isotopic and meteorological data in areas where data exist is key to reconstruct climatic conditions with a high temporal resolution in polar regions where no direct observations exist.
Diversidade de plantas em quintais quilombolas, conhecimento local sobre uso e cultivo de pimentas na Amazônia Oriental, Brasil
Authors: Pereira Luciano Araujo , Lima-Barbosa Jackson Rodrigo de , Almeida Mara Zélia de , Guimarães Elsie Franklin
Published: March 2018

Quintais florestais são áreas ao redor das casas, usadas de forma consorciada, combinando espécies arbóreas lenhosas com cultivos agrícolas e/ou animais. Sua principal função é produzir alimen­tos para o consumo familiar. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a diversidade e o conhecimento sobre o uso e cultivo de plantas em quintais florestais, com destaque às pimentas no estado do Amapá. A pesquisa foi realizada por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas com 16 especialistas em pimentas em seus respectivos quintais, utilizando a técnica turnê-guiada em quatro localidades da Área de Proteção Ambiental do Rio Curiaú. O material coletado foi processado através do método usual em taxonomia e a diversidade dos quintais verificada pelo Índice de Shannon-Wiener. Foram registrados 5.141 indivíduos, de 64 famílias, 130 gêneros e 155 espécies; nove táxons de pimentas em 21 nomes populares per­tencentes às famílias Solanaceae e Piperaceae. Curiaú de Fora e Curiaú de Dentro apresentaram maior riqueza e Curiaú de Fora apresentou a maior diversidade de espécies. Os especialistas demonstraram conhecer e usar as espécies cultivadas como medicinal, alimentar, comercial, ritualístico, dentre outros, em especial Capsicum frutescens L. Os quintais apresentam-se como uma estratégia viável para a con­servação e manutenção da diversidade local.
A vegetação palustre da região dos “Alagados do Vale”, Vila Velha, Espírito Santo
Authors: Valadares Rodrigo Theófilo , Koski Diogo Andrade , Martins Márcio Lacerda Lopes
Published: March 2018

Apresentamos a vegetação palustre encontrada na região dos Alagados do Vale, Vila Velha, Espírito Santo. Indivíduos férteis foram coletados em caminhadas assistemáticas ao longo das áreas permanentemente alagadas e em poças temporárias. Foram encontradas 23 famílias e 36 espécies, sendo Cyperaceae a família mais representativa, com sete espécies, seguida por Asteraceae, Poaceae e Rubiaceae, com três espécies cada uma. Apesar de a área apresentar histórico envolvendo extração irregular de areia e queimadas periódicas, ainda preserva considerável riqueza de espécies palustres relacionadas para a região Centro-Sul do Espírito Santo.
The effect of a state health care consent law on patient care in hospitals: A survey of physicians
Authors: Comer Amber R. , Gaffney Margaret , Stone Cynthia , Torke Alexia
Published: March 2018

Objective: When a patient cannot make medical decisions for him or herself, and has not appointed a healthcare representative, default state healthcare consent laws determine who is able to make healthcare decisions for the patient. The narrow construction of some state laws leaves many patients in situations where the closest person to the patient does not qualify as a representative under the law, or where the patient has too many representatives and a consensus cannot be reached on the patient’s medical care.Methods: In order to determine how state healthcare consent laws affect patient care in hospitals, a survey of 412 Indiana physicians was conducted.Results: The data shows 53.8% of physicians experienced a delay in patient care because they were unable to identify a legally appropriate health care representative. Almost half (46.01%) of physicians experienced delay of patient care due to the inability to identify a final decision maker when disputes arose between multiple legal representatives.Conclusions: The results of this study have important implications for hospital administrators as a delay in patient care can be costly and unnecessarily utilizes hospital resources. Additionally, the results of this study have important implications for the status of state surrogate decision making laws. Amending state laws to include more potential surrogates, has the potential to minimize delays in patient care and ensure that appropriate surrogates are making medical care decisions for patients without the undue burden of court intervention.
Effect of concept mapping on problem solving skills, competence in clinical setting and knowledge among undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Abd El-Hay Seham A. , El Mezayen Samira E. , Ahmed Rasha E.
Published: March 2018

Background and objective: Concept mapping is a powerful instructional tool in the clinical settings that improves competency of undergraduate nursing students in interprets situations, problem solving, decision making and critical thinking in different circumstances. Also enable them to provide optimal comprehensive care for clients. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of concept mapping on problem solving skills, competence in the clinical settings and knowledge among undergraduate nursing students.Methods: Design and Setting: A quasi-experimental design was used and data were collected from Medical & Surgical Nursing Department and Community Health Nursing Department labs in the Faculty of Nursing, Tanta University. Sample: Random sample of 60 undergraduate nursing students which are selected by using simple random method who are divided into; thirty students from second year and thirty students from fourth year. Tools: Four tools were used for data collection: Tool (I): Structure questionnaire sheet to assess students’ knowledge regarding concept mapping, Tool (II): Case study rubric for assessing concept map, Tool (III): Problem solving skills assessment sheet and Tool (IV): Perception of students about using of concept map.Results: As a result of this research, there were significant improvements among students knowledge about concept map, simulation case study rubric and problem solving skills, in addition to more than three quarter from students had positive perceptions regarding application of concept mapping in the clinical settings.Conclusions and recommendation: Based on the findings of the study, there were significant improvement in the score of knowledge, simulation case study rubric and problem solving skills post application of concept mapping in the clinical setting. Therefore, it is necessary to improve wide-spreading of concept map training guidelines for large number of undergraduate nursing students at the level of the nursing faculties.
Ability of Children with Learning Disabilities and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder to Recognize Feelings from Facial Expressions and Body Language
Authors: Girli Alev , Doğmaz Sıla
Published: March 2018

In this study, children with learning disability (LD) were compared with children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD) in terms of identifying emotions from photographs with certain face and body expressions. The sampleconsisted of a total of 82 children aged 7-19 years living in Izmir in Turkey. A total of 6 separate sets of slides,consisting of black and white photographs, were used to assess participants’ ability to identify feelings – 3 sets forfacial expressions, and 3 sets for body language. There were 20 photographs on the face slides and 38 photographson the body language slides. The results of the nonparametric Mann Whitney-U test showed no significant differencebetween the total scores that children received from each of the face and body language slide sets. It was observedthat the children with LD usually looked at the whole photo, while the children with ASD focused especially aroundthe mouth to describe feelings. The results that were obtained were discussed in the context of the literature, andsuggestions were presented.
Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of English Linguistics, Vol. 8, No. 2
Authors: Xu Diana
Published: March 2018

Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of English Linguistics, Vol. 8, No. 2, 2018.
The Analysis of Phytoplankton Abundance Using Weibull Distribution (A Case Study in the Coastal Area of East Yapen in the Regency of Yapen Islands, Papua)
Authors: Indrayani Ervina , Dimara Lisiard , Paiki Kalvin , Reba Felix
Published: March 2018

The coastal waters of East Yapen is one of the spawning sites and areas of care for marine biota in Papua. Because of its very open location, it is widely used by human activities such as fishing, residential, industrial and cruise lines. This indirectly affects the balance of coastal waters condition of East Yapen that impact on the existence of marine biota, especially phytoplankton. Phytoplanktons have a very important role because phytoplankton is the primary producer in the food chain as a link to higher tropical levels. Therefore, special studies are needed such as looking at the distribution of phytoplankton abundance at each site. The data analysis uses the American Public Health Association (APHA), Geo-statistical data, and Chi Square. Then, the distribution parameters are estimated using the Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) method.The obtained parameters are used to describe the cumulative probability and survival of phytoplankton distribution. Samples are taken from fifteen sampling points. The form parameter of the phytoplankton abundance data is 3.9844 and the scale parameter is 79.929. So phytoplankton is the most widely spread in the 15th location, followed by the 6th location. While phytoplankton is at least in the 8th location.The results showthat the highest phytoplankton abundance composition is Bacillariophyceae (50%) and the lowest is Phyrrophyceae (9%) and Cyanophceae. The research is expected to provide an overview of the fertility rate of East Yapen Coastal Waters in particular and Yapen Islands regency in general.
Applications of Pell Polynomials in Rings
Authors: TASYURDU Yasemin , ÇiFÇi Devran , DEVECi Ömür
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we study the Pell polynomials according to modulo mwhere $X^2=2x+1$ and various properties of these sequences are obtained. Also, Pell polynomials to the ring of complex numbers was defined. We define the Pell Polynomial-type orbits $P_（α,β){^R}(x)={X_i}$ where R be a 2-generator ring and (α,β) is a generating pair of the ring. Furthermore, we obtain the periods of the Pell Polynomial-type orbits P_（α,β){^R}(x) in finite 2-generator rings of order P{^2}.
In silico ADME in drug design – enhancing the impact
Authors: Winiwarter Susanne , Ahlberg Ernst , Watson Edmund , Oprisiu Ioana , Mogemark Mickael , Noeske Tobias , Greene Nigel
Published: March 2018

Each year the pharmaceutical industry makes thousands of compounds, many of which do not meet the desired efficacy or pharmacokinetic properties, describing the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME) behavior. Parameters such as lipophilicity, solubility and metabolic stability can be measured in high throughput in vitro assays. However, a compound needs to be synthesized in order to be tested. In silico models for these endpoints exist, although with varying quality. Such models can be used before synthesis and, together with a potency estimation, influence the decision to make a compound. In practice, it appears that often only one or two predicted properties are considered prior to synthesis, usually including a prediction of lipophilicity. While it is important to use all information when deciding which compound to make, it is somewhat challenging to combine multiple predictions unambiguously. This work investigates the possibility of combining in silico ADME predictions to define the minimum required potency for a specified human dose with sufficient confidence. Using a set of drug discovery compounds,in silico predictions were utilized to compare the relative ranking based on minimum potency calculation with the outcomes from the selection of lead compounds. The approach was also tested on a set of marketed drugs and the influence of the input parameters investigated.
Feasibility of the estimation of octanol-water distribution coefficients of acidic drugs by microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography
Authors: Fernández-Pumarega Alejandro , Amézqueta Susana , Fuguet Elisabet , Rosés Martí
Published: March 2018

Previous studies have shown that a microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography (MEEKC) system can estimate the logarithm of the octanol-water partition coefficient (log Po/w) of neutral solutes. In the present work, the applicability of the method to partially and fully ionized acids has been evaluated. Naproxen, a monoprotic acid, has been used as test solute. The retention factor (k) of this compound has been measured in MEEKC at several values of pH and the retention factor-pH profile has been established. As log Po/w correlates with log kMEEKC for neutral compounds, this correlation has been used to estimate the logarithm of the octanol-water partition coefficient of the neutral (log Po/w(HA)), and the fully ionized (log P o/w(A-)) forms of naproxen. Then, the logarithm of the octanol-water distribution coefficient (log Do/w) of the partially ionized form of the acid has been estimated. The comparison of the estimated values with the ones obtained experimentally using the classical procedures, such as the shake-flask method, shows differences under 0.4 log Do/w units either if the acid is partially ionized or in its neutral form in the most part of the pH range. However, the method overestimates the log Do/w of the highly (>99.5 %) or fully ionized form of naproxen.
Special issue devoted to the 6th IAPC Meeting: joint events comprising 6th World conference on physico-chemical methods in drug discovery and development and 3rd World conference on ADMET and DMPK
Authors: Tam Kin , Mandić Zoran
Published: March 2018

Editorial IAPC-6 Meeting
Prosthetic treatment of a pre-school patient with ectodermal dysplasia – case report
Authors: Kuźniarski Amadeusz , Chmiel Grzegorz , Więckiewicz Włodzimierz
Published: March 2018

The treatment of patients with ectodermal dysplasia in pre-school age is a troublesome process and requires a unique approach towards patient’s needs. Ectodermal dysplasia typically affects skin, hair, nail, skin glands and teeth. The characteristics of the condition include rare and thin hair on the head, sweating disorders and tooth agenesis (oligodontia or hipodontia). The treatment of juvenile patients is depending on the number of teeth and their condition. It’s begin with the multi-professional consultation, which leads to settling a combined restorative, surgical, orthodontic and prosthetic treatment. On the account of accruing malformations appearing in the patient’s appearance, the undertaking of fast interdisciplinary treatment - including the prosthetic treatment - can have key prominence not only in improving patient’s health condition, reinforcing the correct development and correction in the stomatognathic system but also in gaining acceptance in a peer group. Dissertation depicts the case of a prosthetic treatment process of a three-year-old boy with ectodermal displasia and showing contact allergy to nickel. Presented difficulties in performing medical procedures and effect of the treatment obtained with dentures.
Valuing new technologies
Authors: Carlsson Katarina Steen
Published: March 2018

Published: December 2017.
Getting value today and incentivising for the future: Pharmaceutical development and healthcare policies
Authors: Johannesen Kasper Munk , Henriksson Martin
Published: March 2018

To manage the challenge of limited healthcare resources and unlimited demand for healthcare, decision makers utilise a variety of demand side policies, such as health technology appraisals and international reference pricing to regulate price and utilisation. By controlling price and utilisation demand side policies determine the earnings potential, and hence the incentives to invest in research and development (R&D) of new technologies. However, the impact of demand side policies on R&D incentives is seldom formally assessed.Based on the key assumption that intellectual property rights, i.e. patents, and expected rent are key drivers of pharmaceutical R&D, this work outlines a framework illustrating the link between demand side policies and pharmaceutical R&D incentives. By analysing how policies impact expected rent and consumer surplus, the framework is used to understand how commonly used demand side policies (including timing and length of reimbursement process, international reference pricing, parallel trade, and sequential adoption into clinical practice) may influence R&D incentives.The analysis demonstrates that delayed reimbursement decisions as well as sequential adoption into clinical practise may in fact reduce both expected rent and consumer surplus. It is also demonstrated how international reference pricing is likely to increase consumer surplus at the expense of lower rent and thus lower R&D incentives.Although this work illustrates the importance of considering how demand side policies may impact long-term R&D incentives, it is important to note that the purpose has not been to prescribe which demand side policies should be utilised or how. Rather, the main contribution is to illustrate the need for a structured approach to the analysis of the complex, and at times highly politicised question of how demand side policies ultimately influence population health, both in the short and in the long term.
A revision of the genus Pochytoides Berland & Millot, 1941 (Araneae: Salticidae), with descriptions of six new species
Authors: Wanda Wesołowska
Published: March 2018

The concept of the jumping spider genus Pochytoides Berland & Millot, 1941 is reviewed, based on the examination of described and undescribed species. Pochytoides is elevated from the subgeneric to the generic rank and a short diagnosis and description of the genus are presented. Redescriptions or descriptions of all species are provided together with a key to the species. Two new combinations are proposed: Pochytoides perezi (Berland & Millot, 1941) comb. nov. and P. poissoni (Berland & Millot, 1941) comb. nov. (both from Pochyta). Pochyta remyi Berland & Millot, 1941 originally placed in the subgenus Pochytoides is excluded; new combination Thiratoscirtus remyi (Berland & Millot, 1941) comb. nov. is proposed for it (but its generic status is uncertain). Six new species are described: Pochytoides monticola sp. nov., P. obstipa sp. nov., P. lamottei sp. nov., P. patellaris sp. nov., P. securis sp. nov. and P. spiniger sp. nov. The genus has a West African distribution.
Indledning
Authors: Baunvig Katrine Frøkjær , Lundager Jensen Hans J.
Published: March 2018

Indledning til RvT 67 og til tema "de (halv-)glemte 'helte"
Effects of the 2016 El Niño on the Galapagos artisanal coastal fin-fish fishery
Authors: Marin Jarrin Jose R , Salinas-de-León Pelayo
Published: March 2018

El Niño events heavily influence physical characteristics in the Tropical Eastern Pacific and lead to a decrease in nutrient and phytoplankton concentrations and to variation in the composition of the marine trophic chain. However, El Niño events can also provide an opportunity to evaluate the possible effects climate change may have on marine ecosystems. The Galapagos Marine Reserve coastal fin-fish fishery supports approximately 400 fishers that target species that include benthic/demersal predatory fish such as the endemic Galapagos whitespotted sandbass (Paralabrax albomaculatus), the regional endemic sailfin grouper (Mycteroperca olfax) and mottled scorpion fish (Pontinus clemensi), and the misty grouper (Hyporthodon mystacinus). The first two species are listed as vulnerable and endangered, respectively, on the IUCN red list of threatened species. Despite their potential effects on the biota, at present it is unclear how El Niño events influence artisanal fin-fish fisheries in the Galapagos. To study the impacts of El Niño events on the fishery, numerical percentage catch composition at the largest dock in Santa Cruz Island was recorded during March and April 2013, 2014 and 2016 and compared. Compositions were significantly different between 2016 and both 2013 and 2014, but not between 2013 and 2014. These differences appear to have been due to the appearance of uncommon demersal/benthic predatory fish such as Grape eye seabass (Hemilutjanus macrophthalmos) and Pacific dog snapper (Lutjanus novemfasciatus). Size frequency distributions also varied, with significantly larger sizes of several species observed in 2016 when compared to 2013 or 2014. These changes in catch composition and size may be a product of a reduction in nutrient concentration and primary production that led to an increase in water clarity and decrease in prey biomass that forced these benthic fish species to change their feeding behavior and strike at baits that usually would not be easily detected. Because of the conservative life history many of these benthic predatory fish exhibit and the absence of any form of management for fish species in the GMR, El Niño events may have profound effects on their populations due to the elimination of the largest individuals. Management actions, such as size and catch limits and closures, directed at reducing the impact of the fishery on these important fish populations in the near- (El Niños) and long-term (climate change) future should be encouraged.
Cytokine receptor-Eb1 interaction couples cell polarity and fate during asymmetric cell division
Authors: Chen Cuie , Cummings Ryan , Mordovanakis Aghapi , Hunt Alan J , Mayer Michael , Sept David , Yamashita Yukiko M
Published: March 2018

Asymmetric stem cell division is a critical mechanism for balancing self-renewal and differentiation. Adult stem cells often orient their mitotic spindle to place one daughter inside the niche and the other outside of it to achieve asymmetric division. It remains unknown whether and how the niche may direct division orientation. Here we discover a novel and evolutionary conserved mechanism that couples cell polarity to cell fate. We show that the cytokine receptor homolog Dome, acting downstream of the niche-derived ligand Upd, directly binds to the microtubule-binding protein Eb1 to regulate spindle orientation in Drosophila male germline stem cells (GSCs). Dome’s role in spindle orientation is entirely separable from its known function in self-renewal mediated by the JAK-STAT pathway. We propose that integration of two functions (cell polarity and fate) in a single receptor is a key mechanism to ensure an asymmetric outcome following cell division.
Spontaneous dormancy protects Trypanosoma cruzi during extended drug exposure
Authors: Sánchez-Valdéz Fernando J , Padilla Angel , Wang Wei , Orr Dylan , Tarleton Rick L
Published: March 2018

The ability of the Chagas disease agent Trypanosoma cruzi to resist extended in vivo exposure to highly effective trypanocidal compounds prompted us to explore the potential for dormancy and its contribution to failed drug treatments in this infection. We document the development of non-proliferating intracellular amastigotes in vivo and in vitro in the absence of drug treatment. Non-proliferative amastigotes ultimately converted to trypomastigotes and established infections in new host cells. Most significantly, dormant amastigotes were uniquely resistant to extended drug treatment in vivo and in vitro and could re-establish a flourishing infection after as many as 30 days of drug exposure. These results demonstrate a dormancy state in T. cruzi that accounts for the failure of highly cytotoxic compounds to completely resolve the infection. The ability of T. cruzi to establish dormancy throws into question current methods for identifying curative drugs but also suggests alternative therapeutic approaches.
Educational Intervention in a Medically Underserved Area
Authors: Atance Joel , Mickalis Morgan , Kincade Brianna
Published: March 2018

Context

Medical students from rural and medically underserved areas (MUAs) are more likely than their peers to practice medicine in rural areas and MUAs. However, students from MUAs are also more likely to face socioeconomic barriers to a career in medicine.

Objective

To determine whether a week-long summer enrichment experience (SEE) at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas could successfully teach high school students from MUAs basic biomedical concepts and foster an interest in medicine and the health sciences.

Methods

The SEE program is open to high school students in the Spartanburg, South Carolina, area. The program includes interactive lectures, laboratories, demonstrations on gross anatomy prosections, demonstrations on medical simulation models, tours of emergency vehicles, an introduction to osteopathic manipulative medicine, and student-led research projects. Participants were asked to complete a 15-question quiz that assessed their knowledge of basic biomedical concepts and a 10-question survey that assessed their attitudes toward careers in medicine and health sciences. Both the quiz and the survey were completed on both the first and final days of the program. The data were analyzed using paired t tests.

Results

Participant knowledge of basic biomedical concepts, as determined by the quiz scores, increased after completion of the program (9.1 average correct answers vs 12.6 average correct answers) (P<.001). Participant attitude toward medicine and the health sciences improved in 9 of the 10 items surveyed after completion of the program (P<.05).

Conclusions

Participant knowledge of basic biomedical concepts and their knowledge of and interest in careers in the health sciences improved after completing the SEE program. These findings suggest that educational interventions for high school students could help to develop primary care physicians for rural areas and MUAs and that there is a role for osteopathic medical schools to nurture these students as early as possible.
Female harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) behavioral response to playbacks of underwater male acoustic advertisement displays
Authors: Matthews Leanna P. , Blades Brittany , Parks Susan E.
Published: March 2018

During the breeding season, male harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) make underwater acoustic displays using vocalizations known as roars. These roars have been shown to function in territory establishment in some breeding areas and have been hypothesized to be important for female choice, but the function of these sounds remains unresolved. This study consisted of a series of playback experiments in which captive female harbor seals were exposed to recordings of male roars to determine if females respond to recordings of male vocalizations and whether or not they respond differently to roars from categories with different acoustic characteristics. The categories included roars with characteristics of dominant males (longest duration, lowest frequency), subordinate males (shortest duration, highest frequency), combinations of call parameters from dominant and subordinate males (long duration, high frequency and short duration, low frequency), and control playbacks of water noise and water noise with tonal signals in the same frequency range as male signals. Results indicate that overall females have a significantly higher level of response to playbacks that imitate male vocalizations when compared to control playbacks of water noise. Specifically, there was a higher level of response to playbacks representing dominant male vocalization when compared to the control playbacks. For most individuals, there was a greater response to playbacks representing dominant male vocalizations compared to playbacks representing subordinate male vocalizations; however, there was no statistical difference between those two playback types. Additionally, there was no difference between the playbacks of call parameter combinations and the controls. Investigating female preference for male harbor seal vocalizations is a critical step in understanding the harbor seal mating system and further studies expanding on this captive study will help shed light on this important issue.
Postcranial skeletal anatomy of the holotype and referred specimens ofBuitreraptor gonzalezorumMakovicky, Apesteguía and Agnolín 2005 (Theropoda, Dromaeosauridae), from the Late Cretaceous of Patagonia
Authors: Gianechini Federico A. , Makovicky Peter J. , Apesteguía Sebastián , Cerda Ignacio
Published: March 2018

Here we provide a detailed description of the postcranial skeleton of the holotype and referred specimens ofBuitreraptor gonzalezorum. This taxon was recovered as an unenlagiine dromaeosaurid in several recent phylogenetic studies and is the best represented Gondwanan dromaeosaurid discovered to date. It was preliminarily described in a brief article, but a detailed account of its osteology is emerging in recent works. The holotype is the most complete specimen yet found, so an exhaustive description of it provides much valuable anatomical information. The holotype and referred specimens preserve the axial skeleton, pectoral and pelvic girdles, and both fore- and hindlimbs. Diagnostic postcranial characters of this taxon include: anterior cervical centra exceeding the posterior limit of neural arch; eighth and ninth cervical vertebral centra with lateroventral tubercles; pneumatic foramina only in anteriormost dorsals; middle and posterior caudal centra with a complex of shallow ridges on lateral surfaces; pneumatic furcula with two pneumatic foramina on the ventral surface; scapular blade transversely expanded at mid-length; well-projected flexor process on distal end of the humerus; dorsal rim of the ilium laterally everted; and concave dorsal rim of the postacetabular iliac blade. A paleohistological study of limb bones shows that the holotype represents an earlier ontogenetic stage than one of the referred specimens (MPCA 238), which correlates with the fusion of the last sacral vertebra to the rest of the sacrum in MPCA 238. A revised phylogenetic analysis recoveredBuitreraptoras an unenlagiine dromaeosaurid, in agreement with previous works. The phylogenetic implications of the unenlagiine synapomorphies and other characters, such as the specialized pedal digit II and the distal ginglymus on metatarsal II, are discussed within the evolutionary framework of Paraves.
Two distinct glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenases in glycolysis and gluconeogenesis in the archaeon Haloferax volcanii
Authors: Tästensen Julia‐Beate , Schönheit Peter
Published: March 2018

The halophilic archaeon Haloferax volcanii degrades glucose via the semiphosphorylative Entner‐Doudoroff pathway and can also grow on gluconeogenic substrates. Here, the enzymes catalysing the conversion of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate (GAP) to 3‐phosphoglycerate were analysed. The genome contains the genes gapI and gapII encoding two putative GAP dehydrogenases, and pgk encoding phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK). We show that gapI is functionally involved in sugar catabolism, whereas gapII is involved in gluconeogenesis. For pgk, an amphibolic function is indicated. This is the first report of the functional involvement of a phosphorylating glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and PGK in sugar catabolism in archaea. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that the catabolic gapI from H. volcanii is acquired from bacteria via lateral genetransfer, whereas the anabolic gapII as well as pgk are of archaeal origin.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa rhamnolipid induces fibrillation of human α‐synuclein and modulates its effect on biofilm formation
Authors: Andersen Kell K. , Vad Brian S. , Kjær Lars , Tolker‐Nielsen Tim , Christiansen Gunna , Otzen Daniel E.
Published: March 2018

The Parkinson's disease‐associated protein α‐synuclein (αSN) is natively unfolded but its structure can be modulated by membranes and surfactants. The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) produces and secretes the biosurfactant rhamnolipid (RL) which modulates bacterial biofilm. Here, we show that monomeric RL enhances the ability of αSN to permeabilize membranes, while micellar RL rapidly induces protein β‐sheet structure with a worm‐like fibrillary appearance, which cannot seed RL‐free fibrillation but transforms into linear fibrils faster than αSN fibrillating on its own. Exposure to αSN reduces the degree of biofilm formation by PA unless RL is present. Our data suggest that RL interactions with αSN may affect both αSN aggregation and cell toxicity, potentially implicating microbiomic metabolites in the origin and propagation of Parkinson's disease.
Y‐Mars: An Astrobiological Analogue of Martian Mudstone
Authors: Stevens Adam H. , Steer Elizabeth , McDonald Alison , Amador Elena S. , Cockell Charles S.
Published: March 2018

NASA's Mars Science Laboratory mission has collected evidence of a long‐lasting habitable environment in the Sheepbed sediments of Gale Crater on Mars. The geochemistry of this mudstone suggests that the lake filling the crater in Mars' past had a neutral pH and low salinity and contained elements and redox couples required by life. We produced a geochemical analogue to the Sheepbed mudstone by mixing a collection of its primary minerals to match the X‐Ray diffraction data from Mars Science Laboratory. Here we describe the production of the Y‐Mars (Yellowknife‐Mars) analogue and characterize its properties, including the presence of background carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur. We highlight some of the unavoidable issues involved in making analogues, especially for astrobiological applications. The Y‐Mars analogue has a number of applications for astrobiological research, but more analogues are required to properly represent the diversity of Martian sedimentary contexts.