bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variable character and diverse origin of hybrid event beds in a sandy submarine fan system, Pennsylvanian Ross Sandstone Formation, western Ireland
Authors: Pierce Colm S. , Haughton Peter D. W. , Shannon Patrick M. , Pulham Andy J. , Barker Simon P. , Martinsen Ole J.
Published: August 2017

Hybrid event beds comprising both clean and mud‐rich sandstone are important components of many deep‐water systems and reflect the passage of turbulent sediment gravity flows with zones of clay‐damped or suppressed turbulence. ‘Behind‐outcrop’ cores from the Pennsylvanian deep‐water Ross Sandstone Formation reveal hybrid event beds with a wide range of expression in terms of relative abundance, character and inferred origin. Muddy hybrid event beds first appear in the underlying Clare Shale Formation where they are interpreted as the distal run‐out of the wakes to flows which deposited most of their sand up‐dip before transforming to fluid mud. These are overlain by unusually thick (up to 4·4 m), coarse sandy hybrid event beds (89% of the lowermost Ross Formation by thickness) that record deposition from outsized flows in which transformations were driven by both substrate entrainment in the body of the flow and clay fractionation in the wake. A switch to dominantly fine‐grained sand was accompanied initially by the arrest of turbulence‐damped, mud‐rich flows with evidence for transitional flow conditions and thick fluid mud caps. The mid and upper Ross Formation contain metre‐scale bed sets of hybrid event beds (21 to 14%, respectively) in (i) upward‐sandying bed set associations immediately beneath amalgamated sheet or channel elements; (ii) stacked thick‐bedded and thin‐bedded hybrid event bed‐dominated bed sets; (iii) associations of hybrid event bed‐dominated bed sets alternating with conventional turbidites; and (iv) rare outsized hybrid event beds. Hybrid event bed dominance in the lower Ross Formation may reflect significant initial disequilibrium, a bias towards large‐volume flows in distal sectors of the basin, extensive mud‐draped slopes and greater drop heights promoting erosion. Higher in the formation, hybrid event beds record local perturbations related to channel switching, lobe relocations and extension of channels across the fan surface. The Ross Sandstone Formation confirms that hybrid event beds can form in a variety of ways, even in the same system, and that different flow transformation mechanisms may operate even during the passage of a single flow.
Comparing soil physical properties from continuous conventional tillage with long‐term reduced tillage affected by one‐time inversion
Authors: Kuhwald M. , Blaschek M. , Brunotte J. , Duttmann R.
Published: August 2017

In addition to various positive aspects, long‐term reduced tillage may cause disadvantages such as increased weed pressure and soil compaction. Thus, single inversion tillage is customarily used for overcoming these drawbacks; however, the effects on the enhanced soil functions are unknown. The main objective of this study was therefore to assess whether improved soil physical properties following long‐term reduced tillage remain after one‐time inversion tillage by mouldboard plough. The study was undertaken on a silt loam field in Lower Saxony, Germany. Since 1996, this field has been subdivided into three treatments; one was managed conventionally using a mouldboard plough (CT), while on the others a chisel plough (RT1) and a disc harrow (RT2) were employed. In October 2014, the entire field was mouldboard ploughed. The following year, four field campaigns were conducted to compare the soil physical properties of the continuously conventional tilled plot with those affected by one‐time inversion tillage (RT1 and RT2). Dry bulk density (DBD), saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) and infiltration rate [K(h)] were analysed in untrafficked and trafficked areas in each plot. There were clear differences between CT and RT. At all sampling dates, both RT plots had higher Ks and K(h) compared with CT. These differences also occurred to some extent on the trafficked areas. This suggests that improved soil hydraulic properties remained after one‐time inversion tillage of a long‐term reduced tilled field. Thus, one‐time inversion tillage may offer a suitable measure for overcoming some of the main disadvantages associated with long‐term reduced tillage, while preserving the positive effects on soil physical properties.
Unsettling geographies of volunteering and development
Authors: Laurie Nina , Baillie Smith Matt
Published: August 2017

This article critically examines the geography of volunteering in relation to international development. We identify the investments involved in sustaining the North–South imaginaries that have come to dominate scholarship in this field and explore new ways of unsettling this geography. We draw together empirical material from five different research projects, conducted with distinct thematic and geographical foci over a six‐year timeframe. We do so in order to show how existing geographies of volunteering and development have produced fixed understandings of agency and experiences in diverse contexts, meanwhile side‐lining the temporalities associated with such fixings. We highlight how the continued privileging of northern mobilities, temporalities and biographies has segregated particular settings and types of volunteering and obscured other, often shared and sometimes co‐produced development processes, relationships and spaces. In developing a new approach, we first emphasise the importance of looking at the “hidden geometries” that shape the individual, institutional and organisational articulations that are central to the relationship between volunteering and development. Second, we introduce the idea of a flattened topography to level the emphasis on difference in the geographies associated with this relationship. We aim to make visible new volunteers and development actors as well as reveal different rhythms and routines of volunteering, and different identities, biographies and forms of career and life‐making connected with volunteering and development.
Diagnostic accuracy of pre‐treatment biopsy for grading cutaneous mast cell tumours in dogs
Authors: Shaw T. , Kudnig S. T. , Firestone S. M.
Published: August 2017

Mast cell tumours (MCTs) are common tumours of the canine skin, and are estimated to represent up to 20% of all skin tumours in dogs. Tumour grade has a major impact on the incidence of local recurrence and metastatic potential. In addition to helping the clinician with surgical planning, knowledge of the tumour grade also assists in proper prognostication and client education. For pre‐treatment biopsies to be useful, there must exist a high level of correlation between the histopathological grade obtained from the pre‐treatment biopsy and the actual histopathological grade from the excisional biopsy. The aim of this study was to determine concordance of tumour grade between various biopsy techniques (wedge, punch, needle core) and the “gold standard” excisional biopsy method. We found an overall concordance rate of 96% based on the Patnaik grading system, and an overall concordance rate of 92% based on the Kiupel grading system. The accuracy of the various biopsy techniques (wedge, punch and needle core) when compared with excisional biopsy was 92%, 100% and 100%, respectively, based on the Patnaik grading system, and 90%, 95% and 100%, respectively, based on the Kiupel grading system. Of the cases with discordant results, the pre‐treatment biopsies tended to underestimate the grade of the tumour. Based on these results, we conclude that pre‐treatment biopsies are sufficiently accurate for differentiating low‐grade from high‐grade MCTs, regardless of biopsy technique or tumour location.
Principles for ethical treatment decision‐making in veterinary oncology
Authors: Rohrer Bley C.
Published: August 2017

Many owners of companion animals with cancer are overwhelmed by having to choose the “right course of action.” With the aim of reducing the burden on owners who are forced to act as surrogates for their animals, this work discusses principles that apply to ethical treatment decision‐making for animal patients with cancer. Four principles frequently used for ethical decision‐making in human medicine will be considered for their potential applicability in veterinary medicine. As a result of these considerations, preliminary guidelines are presented, along which a decision‐making discussion can be held. The deliberate integration of the non‐maleficence and beneficence principles into the purely empirical facts of what is medically possible helps to maintain a moral perspective in specialized veterinary medicine. At the same time, such guidelines may contribute to individual decision‐making in a way that animal patients neither have to endure unnecessarily severe side effects, nor that they are euthanized prematurely.
Hematologic reference intervals for wild Black vultures (Coragyps atratus)
Authors: Barbara Jean C. A. , Ferreira Vivian L. , Guida Fernanda J. V. , Prioste Fabíola E. S. , Matushima Eliana R. , Raso Tânia F.
Published: August 2017

Background

The Black vulture (Coragyps atratus) is the most common species of vulture and is widespread in all America. The species feeds on rotting carcasses, and large groups are frequently seen in urban areas, concentrating especially on rubbish dumps. Although C atratus is a very common species in some areas, little is known about its health in the wild.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine hematologic RIs of wild adult Black vultures.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from 70 wild Black vultures captured in São Paulo, Brazil. Hematologic values were determined using conventional techniques applicable to birds. Reference intervals were determined using an Excel program with Reference Value Adviser (version 2.0).

Results

After statistical analysis, the following RIs were determined: HGB 8.5–12.5 g/dL, PCV 42.3–54.5%, MCV 203.2–402.6 fL, MCHC 17.4–26.2 g/dL, total solids 2.4–4.8 g/dL, RBC count 1.16–2.48 × 106/μL, WBC count 5.93–27.14 × 103/μL, heterophils 3.40–21.58 × 103/μL, lymphocytes 0.19–5.16 × 103/μL, eosinophils 0.0–3.07 × 103/μL, monocytes 0.0–1.49 × 103/μL, basophils 0.0–0.25 × 103/μL, and heterophil:lymphocyte ratio 1.3–36.9. Thrombocyte mean was 14.14 × 103/μL.

Conclusions

Baseline hematologic data obtained in this study provide RIs that will be useful given that few studies have been carried out on the health of New World vultures.
Robust Kalman Filtering for Discrete-Time Time-Varying Systems With Stochastic and Norm-Bounded Uncertainties
Authors: Abolhasani Mahdi , Rahmani Mehdi
Published: August 2017

In this paper, a new robust Kalman filter is proposed for discrete-time time-varying linear stochastic systems. The system under consideration is subject to stochastic and norm-bounded uncertainties in all matrices of the system model. In the proposed approach, the filter is first achieved by solving a stochastic min–max optimization problem. Next, we find an upper bound on the estimation error covariance, and then, by using a linear matrix inequality (LMI) optimization problem, unknown parameters of the filter are determined such that the obtained upper bound is minimized. Finally, two numerical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness and performance of the proposed filtering approach compared to the existing robust filters.
Distributed Bayesian Filter Using Measurement Dissemination for Multiple Unmanned Ground Vehicles With Dynamically Changing Interaction Topologies
Authors: Liu Chang , Eben Li Shengbo , Yang Diange , Karl Hedrick J.
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a novel distributed Bayesian filtering (DBF) method using measurement dissemination (MD) for multiple unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) with dynamically changing interaction topologies. Different from statistics dissemination (SD)-based algorithms that transmit posterior distributions or likelihood functions, this method relies on a full-in and full-out (FIFO) transmission protocol, which significantly reduces the transmission burden between each pair of UGVs. Each UGV only sends a communication buffer (CB) and a track list (TL) to its neighbors, in which the former contains a history of sensor measurements from all UGVs, and the latter is used to trim the redundant measurements in the CB to reduce communication overhead. It is proved that by using FIFO, each UGV can disseminate its measurements over the whole network within a finite time, and the FIFO-based DBF is able to achieve consistent estimation of the environment state. The effectiveness of this method is validated by comparing with the consensus-based distributed filter (CbDF) and the centralized filter (CF) in a multitarget tracking problem.
Probabilistic Data Association-Feedback Particle Filter for Multiple Target Tracking Applications
Authors: Yang Tao , Mehta Prashant G.
Published: August 2017

This paper is concerned with the problem of tracking single or multiple targets with multiple nontarget-specific observations (measurements). For such filtering problems with data association uncertainty, a novel feedback control-based particle filter algorithm is introduced. The algorithm is referred to as the probabilistic data association-feedback particle filter (PDA-FPF). The proposed filter is shown to represent a generalization—to the nonlinear non-Gaussian case—of the classical Kalman filter-based probabilistic data association filter (PDAF). One remarkable conclusion is that the proposed PDA-FPF algorithm retains the error-based feedback structure of the classical PDAF algorithm, even in the nonlinear non-Gaussian case. The theoretical results are illustrated with the aid of numerical examples motivated by multiple target tracking (MTT) applications.
Methodology for Computational Fluid Dynamic Validation for Medical Use: Application to Intracranial Aneurysm
Authors: Paliwal Nikhil , Damiano Robert J. , Varble Nicole A. , Tutino Vincent M. , Dou Zhongwang , Siddiqui Adnan H. , Meng Hui
Published: August 2017

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is a promising tool to aid in clinical diagnoses of cardiovascular diseases. However, it uses assumptions that simplify the complexities of the real cardiovascular flow. Due to high-stakes in the clinical setting, it is critical to calculate the effect of these assumptions in the CFD simulation results. However, existing CFD validation approaches do not quantify error in the simulation results due to the CFD solver’s modeling assumptions. Instead, they directly compare CFD simulation results against validation data. Thus, to quantify the accuracy of a CFD solver, we developed a validation methodology that calculates the CFD model error (arising from modeling assumptions). Our methodology identifies independent error sources in CFD and validation experiments, and calculates the model error by parsing out other sources of error inherent in simulation and experiments. To demonstrate the method, we simulated the flow field of a patient-specific intracranial aneurysm (IA) in the commercial CFD software star-ccm+. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) provided validation datasets for the flow field on two orthogonal planes. The average model error in the star-ccm+ solver was 5.63 ± 5.49% along the intersecting validation line of the orthogonal planes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that our validation method is superior to existing validation approaches by applying three representative existing validation techniques to our CFD and experimental dataset, and comparing the validation results. Our validation methodology offers a streamlined workflow to extract the “true” accuracy of a CFD solver.
A Simulation Method for Non-Gaussian Rough Surfaces Using Fast Fourier Transform and Translation Process Theory
Authors: Wang Yuechang , Liu Ying , Zhang Gaolong , Wang Yuming
Published: August 2017

The simulated rough surface with desired parameters is widely used as an input for the numerical simulation of tribological behavior such as the asperity contact, lubrication, and wear. In this study, a simulation method for generating non-Gaussian rough surfaces with desired autocorrelation function (ACF) and spatial statistical parameters, including skewness (Ssk) and kurtosis (Sku), was developed by combining the fast Fourier transform (FFT), translation process theory, and Johnson translator system. The proposed method was verified by several numerical examples and proved to be faster and more accurate than the previous methods used for the simulation of non-Gaussian rough surfaces. It is convenient to simulate the non-Gaussian rough surfaces with various types of ACFs and large autocorrelation lengths. The significance of this study is to provide an efficient and accurate method of non-Gaussian rough surfaces generation to numerically simulate the tribological behavior with desired rough surface parameters.
A Task-Driven Approach to Optimal Synthesis of Planar Four-Bar Linkages for Extended Burmester Problem
Authors: Deshpande Shrinath , Purwar Anurag
Published: August 2017

The classic Burmester problem is concerned with computing dimensions of planar four-bar linkages consisting of all revolute joints for five-pose problems. We define extended Burmester problem as the one where all types of planar four-bars consisting of dyads of type RR, PR, RP, or PP (R: revolute, P: prismatic) and their dimensions need to be computed for n-geometric constraints, where a geometric constraint is an algebraically expressed constraint on the pose, pivots, or something equivalent. In addition, we extend it to linear, nonlinear, exact, and approximate constraints. This extension also includes the problems when there is no solution to the classic Burmester problem, but designers would still like to design a four-bar that may come closest to capturing their intent. Machine designers often grapple with such problems while designing linkage systems where the constraints are of different varieties and usually imprecise. In this paper, we present (1) a unified approach for solving the extended Burmester problem by showing that all linear and nonlinear constraints can be handled in a unified way without resorting to special cases, (2) in the event of no or unsatisfactory solutions to the synthesis problem, certain constraints can be relaxed, and (3) such constraints can be approximately satisfied by minimizing the algebraic fitting error using Lagrange multiplier method. We present a new algorithm, which solves new problems including optimal approximate synthesis of Burmester problem with no exact solutions.
Dynamic Structural and Contact Modeling for a Silicon Hexapod Microrobot
Authors: Qu Jinhong , Choi Jongsoo , Oldham Kenn R.
Published: August 2017

This paper examines the dynamics of a type of silicon-based millimeter-scale hexapod, focusing on interaction between structural dynamics and ground contact forces. These microrobots, having a 5 mm × 2 mm footprint, are formed from silicon with integrated thin-film lead–zirconate–titanate (PZT) and high-aspect-ratio parylene-C polymer microactuation elements. The in-chip dynamics of the microrobots are measured when actuated with tethered electrical signal to characterize the resonant behavior of different parts of the robot and its piezoelectric actuation. Out-of-chip robot motion is then stimulated by external vibration after the robot has been detached from its silicon tethers, which removes access to external power but permits sustained translation over a surface. A dynamic model for robot and ground interaction is presented to explain robot locomotion in the vibrating field using the in-chip measurements of actuator dynamics and additional dynamic properties obtained from finite element analysis (FEA) and other design information. The model accounts for the microscale interaction between the robot and ground, for multiple resonances of the robot leg, and for rigid robot body motion of the robot chassis in five degrees-of-freedom. For each mode, the motions in vertical and lateral direction are coupled. Simulation of this dynamic model with the first three resonant modes (one predominantly lateral and two predominantly vertical) of each leg shows a good match with experimental results for the motion of the robot on a vibrating surface, and allows exploration of influence of small-scale forces such as adhesion on robot locomotion. Further predictions for future autonomous microrobot performance based on the dynamic phenomena observed are discussed.
On the Solutions of Interval Systems for Under-Constrained and Redundant Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Notash Leila
Published: August 2017

For under-constrained and redundant parallel manipulators, the actuator inputs are studied with bounded variations in parameters and data. Problem is formulated within the context of force analysis. Discrete and analytical methods for interval linear systems are presented, categorized, and implemented to identify the solution set, as well as the minimum 2-norm least-squares solution set. The notions of parameter dependency and solution subsets are considered. The hyperplanes that bound the solution in each orthant characterize the solution set of manipulators. While the parameterized form of the interval entries of the Jacobian matrix and wrench produce the minimum 2-norm least-squares solution for the under-constrained and over-constrained systems of real matrices and vectors within the interval Jacobian matrix and wrench vector, respectively. Example manipulators are used to present the application of methods for identifying the solution and minimum norm solution sets for actuator forces/torques.
Patterned films by atomic layer deposition using Parafilm as a mask
Authors: Zhang Chao , Kalliomäki Jesse , Leskelä Markku , Ritala Mikko
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a new method for depositing patterned films by atomic layer deposition (ALD) using Parafilm as a mask to block the film growth on selected areas of the substrate surface. This offers an easy and efficient method for large area patterning from the millimeter to even meter scale as needed, for example, for protecting contact areas in integrated circuits and microelectromechanical system devices and in preventing film growth on the backside of substrates. It is shown here that Parafilm can protect the substrate against Al2O3, TiO2, and Ir film growth effectively. However, outgassing from the Parafilm affects the film growth on the unmasked areas differently for the three materials. For Al2O3, there are no significant effects on the growth rate and film quality on the nonmasked areas and the thickness profiles next to the Parafilm masked areas are narrow. For TiO2 and Ir, by contrast, the thickness profiles are wider and outgassing also slows down the Ir growth. Energy dispersive x-ray analysis confirms that Ir does not grow on Parafilm. Al2O3 and TiO2 films do grow on Parafilm, but after the ALD process, the Parafilm can be peeled off easily with tweezers and the areas under the Parafilm mask are without any deposition.
Glia relay differentiation cues to coordinate neuronal development in
Drosophila
Authors: Fernandes Vilaiwan M. , Chen Zhenqing , Rossi Anthony M. , Zipfel Jaqueline , Desplan Claude
Published: August 2017

Wiring up the eye

During development, sensory systems must build topographic maps by connecting neurons at different levels within a circuit. Fernandes
et al.
now open a window into how the
Drosophila
eye develops these maps (see the Perspective by Isaacman-Beck and Clandinin). The authors show that glial cells that ensheath axons relay cues from photoreceptors to induce the differentiation of the photoreceptor target field—the so-called lamina neurons—in the
Drosophila
visual system. Thus, glia can play an instructive role in differentiation, helping to direct the spatiotemporal patterning of neurogenesis.

Science
, this issue p.
886
; see also p.
867
Structural basis of the redox switches in the NAD
+
-reducing soluble [NiFe]-hydrogenase
Authors: Shomura Y. , Taketa M. , Nakashima H. , Tai H. , Nakagawa H. , Ikeda Y. , Ishii M. , Igarashi Y. , Nishihara H. , Yoon K.-S. , Ogo S. , Hirota S. , Higuchi Y.
Published: August 2017

How a hydrogenase protects its active site

Hydrogen-metabolizing organisms use an [NiFe]-hydrogenase to catalyze hydrogen oxidation. One type of [NiFe]-hydrogenase, the NAD
+
-reducing soluble [NiFe]-hydrogenase (SH), couples reduction of NAD
+
to the oxidation of hydrogen. Shomura
et al.
solved the structure of SH from an H
2
-oxidizing bacterium in both the air-oxidized and the active reduced state. In the reduced state, the NiFe catalytic center in SH has the same ligand coordination as in other [NiFe]-hydrogenases. However, the air-oxidized active site has an unusual coordination geometry that would prevent O
2
from accessing the site and so may protect against irreversible oxidation.

Science
, this issue p.
928
A molecular dance to cleaner air
Authors: Janssens Ton V. W. , Vennestrøm Peter N. R.
Published: August 2017

Pairs of mobile copper ions intercept oxygen molecules in diesel-exhaust catalysts
Enzymes make light work of hydrocarbon production
Authors: Scrutton Nigel S.
Published: August 2017

An algal enzyme that uses visible light to catalyze hydrocarbon formation may find use in biotechnology
Howard Eichenbaum (1947–2017)
Authors: Hasselmo Michael , Stern Chantal
Published: August 2017

A neuroscientist who was fascinated by the nature and mechanisms of memory
Measuring and managing bias
Authors: Berg Jeremy
Published: August 2017

As someone who grew up with a mother who was a medical researcher, who has been married to a woman very active in scientific research for more than 30 years, and who has had many female colleagues and students, I was surprised when I first took a test to measure implicit gender bias and found that I have a strong automatic association between being male and being involved in science. We all carry a range of biases that are products of our culture and experiences or, in some cases, of outcomes that we desire. Fortunately, many such biases can be measured and, in some cases, effectively managed. A key is to first acknowledge their presence and then to take steps to minimize their influence on important decisions and results.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Use with Positive Blood Cultures: Methodology, Performance, and Optimization
Authors: Faron Matthew L. , Buchan Blake W. , Ledeboer Nathan A.
Published: August 2017

Early initiation of effective antibiotics for septic patients is essential for patient survival. Matrix-assisted desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has revolutionized clinical microbiology for isolate identification and has the possibility to impact how blood culture testing is performed. This review discusses the various uses of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification and susceptibility testing of positive blood cultures, the performance of these methods, and the outcomes involved with its implementation.
Population Diversity and Collective Interactions during Influenza Virus Infection
Authors: Brooke Christopher B.
Published: August 2017

Influenza A virus (IAV) continues to pose an enormous and unpredictable global public health threat, largely due to the continual evolution of escape from preexisting immunity and the potential for zoonotic emergence. Understanding how the unique genetic makeup and structure of IAV populations influences their transmission and evolution is essential for developing more-effective vaccines, therapeutics, and surveillance capabilities. Owing to their mutation-prone replicase and unique genome organization, IAV populations exhibit enormous amounts of diversity both in terms of sequence and functional gene content. Here, I review what is currently known about the genetic and genomic diversity present within IAV populations and how this diversity may shape the replicative and evolutionary dynamics of these viruses.
Lactoferricin Peptides Increase Macrophages' Capacity To Kill Mycobacterium avium
Authors: Silva Tânia , Moreira Ana C. , Nazmi Kamran , Moniz Tânia , Vale Nuno , Rangel Maria , Gomes Paula , Bolscher Jan G. M. , Rodrigues Pedro N. , Bastos Margarida , Gomes Maria Salomé
Published: August 2017

The genusMycobacteriumcomprises several pathogenic species, includingM. tuberculosis,M. leprae,M. avium, etc. Infections caused by these bacteria are particularly difficult to treat due to their intrinsic impermeability, low growth rate, and intracellular localization. Antimicrobial peptides are increasingly acknowledged as potential treatment tools, as they have a high spectrum of activity, low tendency to induce bacterial resistance, and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we show that peptides derived from bovine lactoferricin (LFcin) improve the antimicrobial activity of ethambutol againstMycobacterium aviumgrowing inside macrophages. Moreover, thed-enantiomer of a short version of lactoferricin containing amino acids 17 to 30 (d-LFcin17–30) causes intramacrophagic death ofM. aviumby increasing the formation of lysosomes and autophagosomes. This work opens the way to the use of lactoferricin-derived peptides to treat infections caused by mycobacteria and highlights important modulatory effects ofd-FLcin17–30 on macrophages, which may be useful under other conditions in which macrophage activation is needed.
Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV): recent effectiveness results from the USA and implications for LAIV programmes elsewhere
Authors: Pebody Richard , McMenamin Jim , Nohynek Hanna
Published: August 2017

The USA has a long-standing paediatric influenza vaccination programme, including use of live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV). Following US evidence of apparent lack of vaccine effectiveness (VE) of LAIV in 2015/2016, particularly against A(H1N1)pdm09, the USA suspended the use of LAIV in the 2016/2017 season. The UK introduced LAIV for children in 2013/2014 and Finland in 2015/2016. Both countries have since been closely monitoring programme performance. In 2015/2016, the UK and Finland, unlike the USA, found evidence of significant VE of LAIV against laboratory-confirmed influenza. Several studies, however, reported relatively lower VE of LAIV against A(H1N1)pdm09 infection compared with inactivated influenza vaccine, although not for A(H3N2) or B. The reasons for these apparent differences remain under investigation. Both the UK and Finland continue to recommend the use of LAIV in children for the 2017/2018 season and are intensifying further monitoring of their childhood programmes against a range of end-points.
Inequalities in the dental health needs and access to dental services among looked after children in Scotland: a population data linkage study
Authors: McMahon Alex D , Elliott Lawrie , Macpherson Lorna MD , Sharpe Katharine H , Connelly Graham , Milligan Ian , Wilson Philip , Clark David , King Albert , Wood Rachael , Conway David I
Published: August 2017

Background

There is limited evidence on the health needs and service access among children and young people who are looked after by the state. The aim of this study was to compare dental treatment needs and access to dental services (as an exemplar of wider health and well-being concerns) among children and young people who are looked after with the general child population.

Methods

Population data linkage study utilising national datasets of social work referrals for ‘looked after’ placements, the Scottish census of children in local authority schools, and national health service’s dental health and service datasets.

Results

633 204 children in publicly funded schools in Scotland during the academic year 2011/2012, of whom 10 927 (1.7%) were known to be looked after during that or a previous year (from 2007–2008). The children in the looked after children (LAC) group were more likely to have urgent dental treatment need at 5 years of age: 23%vs10% (n=209/16533), adjusted (for age, sex and area socioeconomic deprivation) OR 2.65 (95% CI 2.30 to 3.05); were less likely to attend a dentist regularly: 51%vs63% (n=5519/388934), 0.55 (0.53 to 0.58) and more likely to have teeth extracted under general anaesthesia: 9%vs5% (n=967/30253), 1.91 (1.78 to 2.04).

Conclusions

LAC are more likely to have dental treatment needs and less likely to access dental services even when accounting for sociodemographic factors. Greater efforts are required to integrate child social and healthcare for LAC and to develop preventive care pathways on entering and throughout their time in the care system.
Keratopigmentation with micronised mineral pigments: complications and outcomes in a series of 234 eyes
Authors: Alio Jorge L , Al-Shymali Olena , Amesty Maria A , Rodriguez Alejandra E
Published: August 2017

Aim

To report the complications observed in a consecutive large series of cases treated with keratopigmentation (KTP).

Methods

KTP was performed in 234 eyes of 204 patients for therapeutic and cosmetic reasons. From them, 50 eyes of 29 patients suffered complications. Different KTP techniques and three generations of pigments (GP) were used. The follow-up period ranged from 4 months to 12 years. Light sensitivity (LS), visual field (VF) limitations and MRI alterations were considered functional complications. Organic complications were described as change in colour, colour fading and neovascularisation.

Results

The percentage of complications was 12.82%. Most patients complained of LS (49%), then colour fading and change in colour (19%). Neovascularisation, VF limitations and MRI complications constituted 7%, 4% and 2%, respectively. Organic complications were observed with the previous GP but resolved with the latest third GP with CE mark certification (Conformité Européene). Although LS remained with the corneal-specific pigments, it gradually disappeared in most of the patients (81.81%) 6 months postoperatively.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge this is the first time a study systematically and comprehensively approaches and reports KTP complications. KTP with third GP provides better results and fewer complications than previous ones. It is a modern, minimally invasive technique that helps solve several functional ocular problems and improves cosmetic appearance of the patients. Dermatological pigments should not be used as they lead to complications; instead pigments specifically tested for the eye in terms of toxicity and teratogenicity should be used.
Framework legislation for non-communicable diseases: and for the Sustainable Development Goals?
Authors: Magnusson Roger S
Published: August 2017

‘Framework legislation’ refers to legislation that sets out structures for governance and accountability or other processes for guiding the decisions and actions taken by government or the executive. Framework legislation for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) provides the opportunity for countries to focus their political commitment, to set national targets, and a time-frame for achieving them, and to create cross-sectoral governance structures for the development and implementation of innovative policies. Although they extend well beyond NCDs, the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) create similar demands for effective national governance. A similar case might, therefore, be made for framework legislation for the health-related SDGs or for legislation to govern particular aspects, such as managing commercial relationships with the private sector or managing conflicts of interest. This article considers the possible benefits of framework legislation, including what issues might be appropriate for inclusion in a framework law. The absence of framework legislation should neither be seen as an excuse for inaction, nor is framework legislation a substitute for detailed regulation of areas such as sanitation and water quality, tobacco and alcohol control, food safety, essential medicines or poisons. The ultimate test for framework legislation will be its capacity to provide a catalyst for action and to accelerate progress towards national and global health goals.
Antenatal corticosteroids for women at risk of imminent preterm birth in low-resource countries: the case for equipoise and the need for efficacy trials
Authors: Vogel Joshua P , Oladapo Olufemi T , Pileggi-Castro Cynthia , Adejuyigbe Ebunoluwa A , Althabe Fernando , Ariff Shabina , Ayede Adejumoke Idowu , Baqui Abdullah H , Costello Anthony , Chikamata Davy M , Crowther Caroline , Fawole Bukola , Gibbons Luz , Jobe Alan H , Kapasa Monica Lulu , Kinuthia John , Kriplani Alka , Kuti Oluwafemi , Neilson James , Patterson Janna , Piaggio Gilda , Qureshi Rahat , Qureshi Zahida , Sankar Mari Jeeva , Stringer Jeffrey S A , Temmerman Marleen , Yunis Khalid , Bahl Rajiv , Metin Gülmezoglu A
Published: August 2017

The scientific basis for antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) for women at risk of preterm birth has rapidly changed in recent years. Two landmark trials—the Antenatal Corticosteroid Trial and the Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids Trial—have challenged the long-held assumptions on the comparative health benefits and harms regarding the use of ACS for preterm birth across all levels of care and contexts, including resource-limited settings. Researchers, clinicians, programme managers, policymakers and donors working in low-income and middle-income countries now face challenging questions of whether, where and how ACS can be used to optimise outcomes for both women and preterm newborns.

In this article, we briefly present an appraisal of the current evidence around ACS, how these findings informed WHO’s current recommendations on ACS use, and the knowledge gaps that have emerged in the light of new trial evidence. Critical considerations in the generalisability of the available evidence demonstrate that a true state of clinical equipoise exists for this treatment option in low-resource settings. An expert group convened by WHO concluded that there is a clear need for more efficacy trials of ACS in these settings to inform clinical practice.
PREDICT prioritisation study: establishing the research priorities of paediatric emergency medicine physicians in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Deane Heather Carol , Wilson Catherine L , Babl Franz E , Dalziel Stuart R , Cheek John Alexander , Craig Simon S , Oakley Ed , Borland Meredith , Cheng Nicholas G , Zhang Michael , Cotterell Elizabeth , Schuster Tibor , Krieser David
Published: August 2017

Background

The Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) performs multicentre research in Australia and New Zealand. Research priorities are difficult to determine, often relying on individual interests or prior work.

Objective

To identify the research priorities of paediatric emergency medicine (PEM) specialists working in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

Online surveys were administered in a two-stage, modified Delphi study. Eligible participants were PEM specialists (consultants and senior advanced trainees in PEM from 14 PREDICT sites). Participants submitted up to 3 of their most important research questions (survey 1). Responses were collated and refined, then a shortlist of refined questions was returned to participants for prioritisation (survey 2). A further prioritisation exercise was carried out at a PREDICT meeting using the Hanlon Process of Prioritisation. This determined the priorities of active researchers in PEM including an emphasis on the feasibility of a research question.

Results

One hundred and six of 254 (42%) eligible participants responded to survey 1 and 142/245 (58%) to survey 2. One hundred and sixty-eight (66%) took part in either or both surveys. Two hundred forty-six individual research questions were submitted in survey 1. Survey 2 established a prioritised list of 35 research questions. Priority topics from both the Delphi and Hanlon process included high flow oxygenation in intubation, fluid volume resuscitation in sepsis, imaging in cervical spine injury, intravenous therapy for asthma and vasopressor use in sepsis.

Conclusion

This prioritisation process has established a list of research questions, which will inform multicentre PEM research in Australia and New Zealand. It has also emphasised the importance of the translation of new knowledge.
Witnessing farm animal abuse during work experience
Authors: Lutter Henrietta
Published: August 2017

In the dilemma discussed in the July/August issue of In Practice, a school student had just gained a place in veterinary school. Before she goes, she does a six‐week work placement on a local dairy farm. While there, she sees the farm manager strike a steer five times on its head. The steer collapses and the farm manager begs the student not to report it (IP, July/August 2017, vol 39, pp 342‐343). Richard Brown says that the student has four options: to report the manager immediately; to tell the manager she won’t report, but then report once she has left the premises; tell the manager she will say nothing, but not return to the farm; or tell the manager she will say nothing and return the next day as normal. Brown thinks reporting the manager after the student has left is the best option, as there is no telling how the manager will react.
Veterinary care of small New World primates
Authors: Perpiñán David , Grífols Jordi , Bargalló Ferran
Published: August 2017

Although veterinarians are instrumental in discouraging the keeping of primates as pets, they also have a key role in the welfare and health of captive primates, by providing specialised veterinary care for these animals and advice to their owners. This article outlines the husbandry of New World monkeys in captivity, some common diseases and their treatments.
Economic insecurity during the Great Recession and metabolic, inflammatory and liver function biomarkers: analysis of the UK Household Longitudinal Study
Authors: Niedzwiedz Claire L , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal , Reeves Aaron , McKee Martin , Stuckler David
Published: August 2017

Background

Economic insecurity correlates with adverse health outcomes, but the biological pathways involved are not well understood. We examine how changes in economic insecurity relate to metabolic, inflammatory and liver function biomarkers.

Methods

Blood analyte data were taken from 6520 individuals (aged 25–59 years) participating in Understanding Society. Economic insecurity was measured using an indicator of subjective financial strain and by asking participants whether they had missed any bill, council tax, rent or mortgage payments in the past year. We investigated longitudinal changes in economic insecurity (remained secure, increase in economic insecurity, decrease in economic insecurity, remained insecure) and the accumulation of economic insecurity. Linear regression models were calculated for nine (logged) biomarker outcomes related to metabolic, inflammatory, liver and kidney function (as falsification tests), adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Compared with those who remained economically stable, people who experienced consistent economic insecurity (using both measures) had worsened levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, triglycerides, C reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen and glycated haemoglobin. Increased economic insecurity was associated with adverse levels of HDL-cholesterol (0.955, 95% CI 0.929 to 0.982), triglycerides (1.077, 95% CI 1.018 to 1.139) and CRP (1.114, 95% CI 1.012 to 1.227), using the measure of financial strain. Results for the other measure were generally consistent, apart from the higher levels of gamma-glutamyl transferase observed among those experiencing persistent insecurity (1.200, 95% CI 1.110 to 1.297).

Conclusion

Economic insecurity is associated with adverse metabolic and inflammatory biomarkers (particularly HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides and CRP), heightening risk for a range of health conditions.
Discrete fractional solutions of radial Schrödinger equation for Makarov potential
Authors: Ozturk Okkes
Published: August 2017

The fractional calculus that is a theory of integral and derivative with arbitrary order is an important subject of applied mathematics. This theory has extensive usage fields in science and engineering. Discrete mathematics, the study of finite structures, is one of the fastest growing areas in mathematics and optimization. Recently, many considerable scientific works were published on fractional calculus and discrete fractional calculus (DFC). The purpose of this paper is to obtain discrete fractional solutions of radial Schrödinger equation for Makarov potential by means of nabla DFC operator. Moreover, we introduce hypergeometric forms of these solutions.
Multi-Fidelity Modeling-Based Structural Reliability Analysis with the Boundary Element Method
Authors: Morse Llewellyn , Khodaei Zahra Sharif , Aliabadi M. H.
Published: August 2017

In this work, a method for the application of multi-fidelity modeling to the reliability analysis of 2D elastostatic structures using the boundary element method (BEM) is proposed. Reliability analyses were carried out on a rectangular plate with a center circular hole subjected to uniaxial tension using Monte Carlo simulations (MCS), the first-order reliability method (FORM), and the second-order reliability method (SORM). Two BEM models were investigated, a low-fidelity model (LFM) of 20 elements and a high-fidelity model (HFM) of 100 elements. The response of these models at several design points was used to create multi-fidelity models (MFMs) utilizing second-order polynomial response surfaces and their reliability, alongside that of the LFM and the HFM, was evaluated. Results show that the MFMs that directly called the LFM were significantly superior in terms of accuracy to the LFM, achieving very similar levels of accuracy to the HFM, while also being of similar computational cost to the LFM. These direct MFMs were found to provide good substitutes for the HFM for MCS, FORM, and SORM.
High-energy flood events recorded in the Mesoproterozoic Meall Dearg Formation, NW Scotland; their recognition and implications for the study of pre-vegetation alluvium
Authors: McMahon William J. , Davies Neil S.
Published: August 2017

The Mesoproterozoic–Neoproterozoic Torridonian Sandstone of NW Scotland has renewed sedimentological significance following recent advances in the understanding of pre-vegetation alluvium, as it is one of the most extensive and easily accessible successions of such strata worldwide. This paper presents the first modern sedimentological analysis of the unit's constituent Meall Dearg Formation (late Mesoproterozoic), recognizing a dominance of alluvial facies, with subordinate aeolian facies. Alluvial strata within the Meall Dearg Formation contain direct evidence for event deposition by high-energy floods, including the following: (1) widespread upper and transitional upper flow regime elements; (2) frequent stacking of successively lower flow regime elements; (3) common subcritical subaqueous dune fields with superimposed ripple marks; (4) occasional thin, desiccated mudstones; (5) evidence that microbial mats colonized substrates during intervals of sedimentary stasis. Together these strands of primary sedimentary geological evidence indicate that the alluvial deposition of the Meall Dearg Formation was typified by supercritical flows during high-energy floods, punctuated by prolonged intervals of sedimentary stasis. The preservation potential of all of the features was boosted by highly aggradational sedimentary conditions. These primary observations have implications for the ‘norm’ in pre-vegetation alluvium and confirm that, despite increasing recognition of diversity within Precambrian fluvial systems, classical pre-vegetation motifs of high-energy alluvial flood deposits preserved as ‘sheet-braided’ alluvium are still an archetypal sedimentary signature in some instances. Using supportive evidence from the Meall Dearg Formation, we recommend that the term ‘sheet-braided’ be used in inverted commas in future studies; this emphasizes the polygenetic depositional nature of the 20:1 width:thickness fluvial style, while maintaining the value of the term in the isolation of a key characteristic of pre-vegetation sedimentary architecture.