bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knee Septic Arthritis after Arthroscopy: Incidence, Risk Factors, Functional Outcome, and Infection Eradication Rate
Authors: Balato G. , Di Donato S. , Ascione T. , D'Addona A. , Smeraglia F. , Di Vico G. , Rosa D.
Published: July 2017

Purpose Septic knee arthritis following arthroscopy is a rare but dreaded complication. Definition and management of knee deep infections are quite discussed in literature. In this review, literature regarding infections after knee arthroscopy is analyzed highlighting the incidence, causative bacteria, risk factors as well as clinical outcomes.

Methods We performed a review of the literature matching the following key words: “septic arthritis” OR “infection” AND “arthroscopy” AND “knee.” Knee arthroscopic procedures, such as debridement, meniscectomy, meniscus repair, synovectomy, microfracture, and lateral release, were considered. Complex procedures, such as ligament reconstruction, fractures, or complex cartilage repair techniques, were not included.

Results Thirteen studies were included in this review. Incidence of infection ranged from 0.009 to 1.1% in patients undergoing simple arthroscopic procedures. Staphylococci are the most commonly isolated organisms from postarthroscopy infection. Use of intraoperative intra-articular steroids, smoking, obesity, male sex, diabetes, number of procedures performed during surgery, time of surgery, and tourniquet time of more than 60 minutes have been certified as risk factors for knee infection.

Conclusion Postarthroscopy septic arthritis of the knee causes significant morbidity, usually requiring readmission to the hospital, at least one additional operation, and prolonged antibiotic therapy, both intravenous and oral. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are associated with a high success rate.

Level of Evidence Level IV, systematic review of I-IV studies.
Accuracy of Coracoid Bone Graft Placement: Open versus Arthroscopic Latarjet
Authors: Russo Adriano , Grasso Andrea , Arrighi Annalisa , Pistorio Angela , Molfetta Luigi
Published: July 2017

Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of the coracoid bone graft placement with the open Latarjet-Patte and arthroscopic Latarjet (arthro-Latarjet) procedures in the treatment of anterior instability of the shoulder.

Methods Forty-six patients affected by anterior shoulder instability were divided into two groups. In group A (n = 25), patients were operated by arthroscopic Latarjet (arthro-Latarjet) procedure and in group B (n = 21), patients were operated by open Latarjet-Patte procedure. Instrumental investigation was based on three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) at a minimum 1-year follow-up. Graft placement and integration, divergence and posterior protrusion of the screws, and glenohumeral osteoarthritis were considered as outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed with chi-square or Fisher's exact test. Significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results Positioning of the coracoid graft proved to be optimal in 76% (19/25) of patients of group A and in 100% (21/21) of patients of group B (Fisher's exact test, p = 0.025). Screw placement with respect to the glenoid surface showed a posterior divergence in 44% (11/25) of patients in group A and in 24% (5/21) of patients in group B (p = 0.15). Posterior protrusion of screw was observed in 76% (19/25) of patients in group A and 71.4% (15/21) of patients in group B (p = 0.73). Graft integration was present in 76% (19/25) of patients in group A and 85.7% (18/21) of patients in group B (Fisher's exact test, p = 0.48). Mild signs of glenohumeral osteoarthritis were observed in 12% (3/25) of patients in group A and 28.6% (6/21) of patients in group B (Fisher's exact test, p = 0.26).

Conclusion Patients operated with open Latarjet-Patte procedure showed better results than those of the arthro-Latarjet group in reference to the positioning of the graft on the coronal plane (p = 0.025). No significant differences between the groups were observed for graft integration, divergence of the screws, posterior protrusion of the screws, and osteoarthritis.

Level of Evidence Level II, nonrandomized prospective comparative study.
Waugh's Syndrome: Report of Two Children with Intussusception
Authors: Khan Yousuf , Yadav Sunil , Elkholy Ashraf
Published: July 2017

Waugh's syndrome (WS) is the rare association of intussusception and intestinal malrotation. We present two such cases in a 5-month-old infant and a 9-year-old girl. Both patients presented with intussusception and were diagnosed with malrotation during workup and surgical exploration. We conclude that the possibility of intestinal malrotation must be taken into consideration while managing children with intussusception.
Transcranial Electrical Brain Stimulation
Authors: Reis Janine , Fritsch Brita
Published: July 2017

Transcranial electrical brain stimulation using weak direct current (tDCS) or alternating current (tACS) is being increasingly used in clinical and experimental settings to improve cognitive and motor functions in healthy subjects as well as neurological patients. This review focuses on the therapeutic value of transcranial direct current stimulation for neurorehabilitation and provides an overview of studies addressing motor and non-motor symptoms after stroke, disorders of attention and consciousness as well as Parkinson’s disease.
Modern Imaging in Neurooncology
Authors: Straube Christoph , Bette Stefanie , Pyka Thomas , Einhellig Heike , Zimmer Claus , Schwaiger Markus , Combs Stephanie
Published: July 2017

Imaging of intracranial neoplasms has significantly changed over the past two decades. This overview discusses the current state of diagnostic imaging for the three most common tumor types, namely gliomas, metastases and meningiomas, and describes the underlying technical principles as well as their application in diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up.
Nutzenbewertung für Untersuchungs- und Behandlungsmethoden mit Medizinprodukten hoher Klassen: Die Abwägung von Patientennutzen, Evidenz und Zugang
Authors: Mühlbacher Axel , Juhnke Christin
Published: July 2017

Die Einführung des § 137 h SGB V durch das GKV-VSG zielt auf die Nutzenbewertung von Untersuchungs- und Behandlungsmethoden mit Medizinprodukten der Klasse IIb und III. Zukünftig wird die Entscheidung über die Erstattungsfähigkeit durch hohe Anforderungen an die Dokumentation von Nutzen und Schaden gekennzeichnet sein. Zielsetzung der Nutzenbewertung ist die Operationalisierung des Patientennutzens. Auf Basis einer vergleichenden Feststellung des Nutzens kann eine rationale Entscheidung durch die Regulierungsbehörden ermöglicht werden. Das Verfahren der Nutzenbewertung sollte transparente Entscheidungsprozesse garantieren und die dem Verfahren zugrundeliegenden medizinischen und gesundheitsökonomischen Grundlagen sollten dokumentiert werden. Grundsätzlich kann die Nutzenbewertung in 3 Phasen unterteilt werden: Messen von kausalen Effekten einer Intervention, Bewertung der gemessenen Effekte und Entscheidung über die Erstattungsfähigkeit auf Basis der Aggregation eines Gesamtnutzens. Um den Besonderheiten von Medizinprodukten in diesem Prozess zu begegnen, stellen adaptive Studiendesigns, MCDA und die adaptive Nutzenbewertung im Zusammenspiel ein zukunftsfähiges Konzept für einen schnellen Zugang von Patienten zu innovativen Behandlungsmethoden bei hoher Qualität und Sicherheit dar.
A new composite measure of colonoscopy: the Performance Indicator of Colonic Intubation (PICI)
Authors: Valori Roland , Damery Sarah , Gavin Daniel , Anderson John , Donnelly Mark , Williams J. , Swarbrick Edwin
Published: July 2017

Background and study aim Cecal intubation rate (CIR) is an established performance indicator of colonoscopy. In some patients, cecal intubation with acceptable tolerance is only achieved with additional sedation. This study proposes a composite Performance Indicator of Colonic Intubation (PICI), which combines CIR, comfort, and sedation.

Methods Data from 20 085 colonoscopies reported in the 2011 UK national audit were analyzed. PICI was defined as the percentage of procedures achieving cecal intubation with median dose (2 mg) of midazolam or less, and nurse-assessed comfort score of 1 – 3/5. Multivariate logistic regression analysis evaluated possible associations between PICI and patient, unit, colonoscopist, and diagnostic factors.

Results PICI was achieved in 54.1 % of procedures. PICI identified factors affecting performance more frequently than single measures such as CIR and polyp detection, or CIR + comfort alone. Older age, male sex, adequate bowel preparation, and a positive fecal occult blood test as indication were associated with a higher PICI. Unit accreditation, the presence of magnetic imagers in the unit, greater annual volume, fewer years’ experience, and higher training/trainer status were associated with higher PICI rates. Procedures in which PICI was achieved were associated with significantly higher polyp detection rates than when PICI was not achieved.

Conclusions PICI provides a simpler picture of performance of colonoscopic intubation than separate measures of CIR, comfort, and sedation. It is associated with more factors that are amenable to change that might improve performance and with higher likelihood of polyp detection. It is proposed that PICI becomes the key performance indicator for intubation of the colon in colonoscopy quality improvement initiatives.
Fine tuning classical and quantum molecular dynamics using a generalized Langevin equation
Authors: Rossi Mariana , Kapil Venkat , Ceriotti Michele
Published: July 2017

Generalized Langevin Equation (GLE) thermostats have been used very effectively as a tool to manipulate and optimize the sampling of thermodynamic ensembles and the associated static properties. Here we show that a similar, exquisite level of control can be achieved for the dynamical properties computed from thermostatted trajectories. We develop quantitative measures of the disturbance induced by the GLE to the Hamiltonian dynamics of a harmonic oscillator, and show that these analytical results accurately predict the behavior of strongly anharmonic systems. We also show that it is possible to correct, to a significant extent, the effects of the GLE term onto the corresponding microcanonical dynamics, which puts on more solid grounds the use of non-equilibrium Langevin dynamics to approximate quantum nuclear effects and could help improve the prediction of dynamical quantities from techniques that use a Langevin term to stabilize dynamics. Finally we address the use of thermostats in the context of approximate path-integral-based models of quantum nuclear dynamics. We demonstrate that a custom-tailored GLE can alleviate some of the artifacts associated with these techniques, improving the quality of results for the modeling of vibrational dynamics of molecules, liquids, and solids.
Study of non-equilibrium thermal transport in Ge2Sb2Te5 thin films under ultrafast laser excitation using a photo-excited carrier integrated semiconductor model
Authors: Wang Y. H. , Liu F. R. , Li W. Q. , Fan T. , Yang J. F. , Wang Z. M. , Liu F. , Sun N. X.
Published: July 2017

A two-temperature semiconductor model was used to investigate the non-equilibrium thermal transport in Ge2Sb2Te5 thin films caused by an ultrashort laser pulse ranging from atto- to nanoseconds. In the model, photo-excited carriers were considered based on the semiconductor absorbing mechanism. As a general rule, shorter laser pulses led to shorter equilibration time between carrier and lattice systems. However, a minimum time to reach the thermal equilibrium (about 80 ps) was obtained for both the attosecond and femtosecond laser pulses, which was mainly determined by material properties instead of the pulse width. The carrier density had a strong influence on the temperatures of both the carrier and lattice systems, and photo-excited carriers played an important role in the first 40 ps under the attosecond and femtosecond laser irradiations. Besides, the ambipolar diffusion effect significantly reduced the density of free carriers and then extended the crystallization and amorphization times of Ge2Sb2Te5.
Quasi-additive estimates on the Hamiltonian for the one-dimensional long range Ising model
Authors: Littin Jorge , Picco Pierre
Published: July 2017

In this work, we study the problem of getting quasi-additive bounds for the Hamiltonian of the long range Ising model, when the two-body interaction term decays proportionally to 1d2−α, α∈(0,1). We revisit the paper by Cassandro et al. [J. Math. Phys. 46, 053305 (2005)] where they extend to the case α∈[0,ln3ln2−1) the result of the existence of a phase transition by using a Peierls argument given by Fröhlich and Spencer [Commun. Math. Phys. 84, 87–101 (1982)] for α=0. The main arguments of Cassandro et al. [J. Math. Phys. 46, 053305 (2005)] are based in a quasi-additive decomposition of the Hamiltonian in terms of hierarchical structures called triangles and contours, which are related to the original definition of contours introduced by Fröhlich and Spencer [Commun. Math. Phys. 84, 87–101 (1982)]. In this work, we study the existence of a quasi-additive decomposition of the Hamiltonian in terms of the contours defined in the work of Cassandro et al. [J. Math. Phys. 46, 053305 (2005)]. The most relevant result obtained is Theorem 4.3 where we show that there is a quasi-additive decomposition for the Hamiltonian in terms of contours when α∈[0,1) but not in terms of triangles. The fact that it cannot be a quasi-additive bound in terms of triangles lead to a very interesting maximization problem whose maximizer is related to a discrete Cantor set. As a consequence of the quasi-additive bounds, we prove that we can generalise the [Cassandro et al., J. Math. Phys. 46, 053305 (2005)] result, that is, a Peierls argument, to the whole interval α∈[0,1). We also state here the result of Cassandro et al. [Commun. Math. Phys. 327, 951–991 (2014)] about cluster expansions which implies that Theorem 2.4 that concerns interfaces and Theorem 2.5 that concerns n point truncated correlation functions in Cassandro et al. [Commun. Math. Phys. 327, 951–991 (2014)] are valid for all α∈[0,1) instead of only α∈[0,ln3ln2−1).
Recovery of a supersonic turbulent boundary layer after an expansion corner
Authors: Sun Ming-bo , Hu Zhiwei , Sandham Neil D.
Published: July 2017

Supersonic turbulent flows at Mach 2.7 over expansion corners with deflection angles of 0° (flat plate), 2°, and 4° have been studied using direct numerical simulation. Distributions of skin friction, pressure, velocity, and boundary layer growth show that the turbulent boundary layer experiences a recovery from a non-equilibrium to an equilibrium state downstream of the expansion corner. Analysis of velocity profiles indicates that the streamwise velocity undergoes a reduction in the near-wall region even though the velocity in the core part of the boundary layer is accelerated after the expansion corner. Growth of the boundary layer was evaluated and a higher shape factor was found in the expansion cases. Turbulence was found to be mostly suppressed downstream of the corner, and throughout the recovery region, even though turbulence is regenerated in the near-wall region. The expansion ramp increases the near-wall streak spacing compared to a flat plate, and turbulent kinetic energy profiles and budgets exhibit a characteristic two-layer structure. Near-wall turbulence recovers to a balance between the local production and dissipation equilibrium more quickly in the inner layer than in the outer layer. The two-layer structure is due to a history effect of turbulence decay in the outer part of the boundary layer downstream of the expansion corner, with limited momentum and energy exchange between the inner layer and the main stream.
Lower bounds on the moduli of three-dimensional Coulomb-Dirac operators via fractional Laplacians with applications
Authors: Morozov Sergey , Müller David
Published: July 2017

For ν∈[0,1], let Dν be the distinguished self-adjoint realisation of the three-dimensional Coulomb-Dirac operator −iα⋅∇−ν|⋅|−1. For ν∈[0,1), we prove the lower bound of the form |Dν|⩾Cν−Δ, where Cν is found explicitly and is better than in all previous studies on the topic. In the critical case ν=1, we prove that for every λ∈[0,1), there exists Kλ>0 such that the estimate |D1|⩾Kλaλ−1(−Δ)λ∕2−a−1 holds for all a>0. As applications, we extend the range of coupling constants in the proof of the stability of the relativistic electron-positron field and obtain Cwickel-Lieb-Rozenblum and Lieb-Thirring type estimates on the negative eigenvalues of perturbed projected massless Coulomb-Dirac operators in the Furry picture. We also study the existence of a virtual level at zero for such projected operators.
Vibrational self-consistent field theory using optimized curvilinear coordinates
Authors: Bulik Ireneusz W. , Frisch Michael J. , Vaccaro Patrick H.
Published: July 2017

A vibrational SCF model is presented in which the functions forming the single-mode functions in the product wavefunction are expressed in terms of internal coordinates and the coordinates used for each mode are optimized variationally. This model involves no approximations to the kinetic energy operator and does not require a Taylor-series expansion of the potential. The non-linear optimization of coordinates is found to give much better product wavefunctions than the limited variations considered in most previous applications of SCF methods to vibrational problems. The approach is tested using published potential energy surfaces for water, ammonia, and formaldehyde. Variational flexibility allowed in the current ansätze results in excellent zero-point energies expressed through single-product states and accurate fundamental transition frequencies realized by short configuration-interaction expansions. Fully variational optimization of single-product states for excited vibrational levels also is discussed. The highlighted methodology constitutes an excellent starting point for more sophisticated treatments, as the bulk characteristics of many-mode coupling are accounted for efficiently in terms of compact wavefunctions (as evident from the accurate prediction of transition frequencies).
Image potential states from the van der Waals density functional
Authors: Hamada Ikutaro , Hamamoto Yuji , Morikawa Yoshitada
Published: July 2017

The image potential state is one of the fundamental surface electronic states and has a great relevance to many surface phenomena, but its accurate description is a great challenge for the semilocal density functional. Here, we use the nonlocal van der Waals density functional to describe the image potential states of graphene, graphite, and carbon nanotubes. We found that although it does not yield the correct image potential outside the surface, the van der Waals density functional improves the description of image potential states because of the nonlocal correlation potential. Our study demonstrates the usefulness of the van der Waals density functional to study the surface electronic properties.
Stability estimate for an inverse problem for the Schrödinger equation in a magnetic field with time-dependent coefficient
Authors: Ben Aïcha Ibtissem
Published: July 2017

We study the stability issue in the inverse problem of determining the magnetic field and the time-dependent electric potential appearing in the Schrödinger equation, from boundary observations. We prove in dimension 3 or greater that the knowledge of the Dirichlet-to-Neumann map stably determines the magnetic field and the electric potential.
Time-asymptotic interactions of two ensembles of Cucker-Smale flocking particles
Authors: Ha Seung-Yeal , Ko Dongnam , Zhang Xiongtao , Zhang Yinglong
Published: July 2017

We study the time-asymptotic interactions of two ensembles of Cucker-Smale flocking particles. For this, we use a coupled hydrodynamic Cucker-Smale system and discuss two frameworks, leading to mono-cluster and bi-cluster flockings asymptotically depending on initial configurations, coupling strengths, and the far-field decay property of communication weights. Under the proposed two frameworks, we show that mono-cluster and bi-cluster flockings emerge asymptotically exponentially fast and algebraically slow, respectively. Our asymptotic analysis uses the Lyapunov functional approach and a Lagrangian formulation of the coupled system.
Efficient local-orbitals based method for ultrafast dynamics
Authors: Boleininger Max , Horsfield Andrew P.
Published: July 2017

Computer simulations are invaluable for the study of ultrafast phenomena, as they allow us to directly access the electron dynamics. We present an efficient method for simulating the evolution of electrons in molecules under the influence of time-dependent electric fields, based on the Gaussian tight binding model. This model improves upon standard self-charge-consistent tight binding by the inclusion of polarizable orbitals and a self-consistent description of charge multipoles. Using the examples of bithiophene, terthiophene, and tetrathiophene, we show that this model produces electrostatic, electrodynamic, and explicitly time-dependent properties in strong agreement with density-functional theory, but at a small fraction of the cost.
Distant exchange interactions in Cd1−xMnxS from magnetization steps method
Authors: Gratens X. , Chitta V.
Published: July 2017

Three new distant neighbor (DN) antiferromagnetic exchange constants have been measured in wurtzite Cd1–xMnxS (x = 0.0087 and x = 0.0278) using the magnetization steps method in the millikelvin regime. The second (J(2)), third (J(3)), and fourth (J(4)) largest exchange constants (after the two first neighbor exchange interactions J1 and J1′) have been measured. The results are J(2) = 300 ± 10 mK, J(3) = 173 ± 10 mK, and J(4) = 55 ± 10 mK. No significant change of the exchange constant values has been observed as a function of the Mn concentration. The mapping of the DN exchange interactions has been investigated within a sphere of radius 2 times the nearest neighbors distance. The only way to identify the J constants was using the number coordination Zn of the different DN classes: J(2) is associated to DN classes with Zn = 6, J(3) with Zn = 12, and J(4) is ascribed to a group of three DN classes with J values around J(4). The magnitude of the J constants is not in agreement with theoretical predictions of the monotonic decrease of the exchange constant with increasing distance. The present results are similar to those obtained for Cd1–xMnxSe but are different from the ones obtained for Zn1–xMnxO. The present work confirms the long-range character of the DN exchange interactions in the wurtzite type Mn-based II-VI diluted magnetic semiconductors.
Large array fabrication of high performance monolayer MoS2 photodetectors
Authors: Yore Alexander E. , Smithe Kirby K. H. , Jha Sauraj , Ray Kyle , Pop Eric , Newaz A. K. M.
Published: July 2017

Large array fabrication of high quality photodetectors derived from synthetically grown monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides is highly desired and important for a wide range of nanophotonic applications. We present here large array fabrication of monolayer MoS2 photodetectors on sapphire substrates through an efficient process, which includes growing large scale monolayer MoS2 via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and multi-step optical lithography for device patterning and high quality metal electrode fabrication. In every measured device, we observed the following universal features: (i) negligible dark current (Idark≤10 fA), (ii) sharp peaks in photocurrent at ∼1.9 eV and ∼2.1 eV attributable to the optical transitions due to band edge excitons, and (iii) a rapid onset of photocurrent above ∼2.5 eV peaked at ∼2.9 eV due to an excitonic absorption originating from the van Hove singularity of MoS2. We observe a low (≤300%) device-to-device variation of photoresponsivity. Furthermore, we observe a very fast DC time response of ∼0.5 ms, which is two orders of magnitude faster than other reported CVD grown 1L-MoS2 based photodetectors. The combination of large-array device fabrication, high sensitivity, and high speed offers great potential for applications in photonics.
Domain structures in circular ferroelectric nano-islands with charged defects: A Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Chen D. P. , Zhang Y. , Zhang X. M. , Lin L. , Yan Z. B. , Gao X. S. , Liu J.-M.
Published: July 2017

The pattern evolution of striped and vortex domain structures in circular ferroelectric nano-islands with in-plane polarization and charged defects is investigated using the Monte Carlo simulation based on the Landau-Devonshire phenomenological theory. The domain structures of islands undergoing different annealing processes are compared. Given embedded charge carriers at the center of islands, the domain patterns would be markedly affected as a result of the competition and balance between the electrostatic charge energy and other free energy terms in the Landau-Devonshire phenomenological theory. The symmetry of islands with different sizes and charge quantities is also analyzed. The present work provides a simple explanation of a variety of ferroelectric nano-islands and proposes an alternative promising approach to tune the domain structures and symmetry for the applications of nano-sized ferroelectric devices.
Blue light hazard performance comparison of phosphor-converted LED sources with red quantum dots and red phosphor
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Xie Bin , Yu Xingjian , Luo Xiaobing , Zhang Tao , Liu Shishen , Yu Zhihua , Liu Li , Jin Xing
Published: July 2017

In this study, the blue light hazard performances of phosphor converted-light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) with red phosphor and red quantum dots (QDs) were compared and analyzed by spectral optimization, which boosts the minimum attainable blue light hazard efficiency of radiation (BLHER) at high values of color rendering index (CRI) and luminous efficacy of radiation (LER) when the correlated color temperature (CCT) value changes from 1800 to 7800 K. It is found that the minimal BLHER value increases with the increase in the CCT value, and the minimal BLHER values of the two spectral models are nearly the same. Note that the QDs' model has advantages at CCT coverage under the same constraints of CRI and LER. Then, the relationships between minimal BLHER, CRI, CCT, and LER of pc-LEDs with QDs' model were analyzed. It is found that the minimal BLHER values are nearly the same when the CRI value changes from 50 to 90. Therefore, the influence of CRI on minimal BLHER is insignificant. Minimal BLHER increases with the increase in the LER value from 240 to 360 lm/W.
Are mangroves in Victoria (south-eastern Australia) already responding to climate change?
Authors: Boon Paul I.
Published: July 2017

The distribution and productivity of mangroves is directly affected by a wide range of climatic drivers, including temperature, frost, rainfall, evaporation and storm activity, which, in turn, influence a suite of secondary drivers, including changes in freshwater run-off and sediment supply, groundwater dynamics and inter-species competitiveness. The highest-latitude expression of mangroves globally is at Millers Landing, Victoria (38°45′S), and because the vigour and productivity of mangroves across much of Victoria is thought to be limited by low winter temperatures and the incidence and severity of frosts, it is likely that mangroves will be among the first plant communities to be affected by climate change in coastal south-eastern Australia. An increase in plant vigour is likely, but there are almost no historical data with which to compare current rates of primary production. An extension of mangroves to higher latitudes on the mainland is impossible because of the geomorphology of the land that lies further to the south. Small-scale changes in distribution, including the progressive encroachment of mangroves into coastal saltmarsh, are likely to be among the clearest indications of the response of mangroves to a warming climate. Increased effort into tracking changes in mangrove vigour, productivity and distribution is clearly warranted.
Bilingualism effects in Basque Subject Pronoun Expression
Authors: Rodríguez-Ordóñez Itxaso , Sainzmaza-Lecanda Lorena
Published: July 2017

TheInterface Hypothesis(IH) (Sorace, 2011;Sorace & Filiaci, 2006;Sorace & Serratrice, 2009) proposes that structures involving an interface between syntax and other modules are less likely to be fully acquired. Whereas some studies have found evidence in favor of theIH(Michnowicz, 2015), others have reported that adult 2L1 and L2 speakers of differing proficiencies are equally efficient in acquiring the pragmatic constraints conditioning Subject Pronoun Expression (SPE) (Carvalho & Bessett, 2015;Prada-Pérez, 2015). In light of these contradictory results, this study tests theIHby exploring the acquisition of Basque SPE using naturally-occurring speech from 25 Basque-Spanish bilinguals. Results show that Basque L2-learners are responsive to discourse-pragmatic constraints. In fact, L2-Basque SPE is conditioned by a more complex set of constraints than native Basque SPE, for which we propose that L2 SPE results from a process ofcomplexification(Dahl, 2004), triggered by transfer effects from Spanish.
Botany and physiology.
Authors: Biddle A. J.
Published: July 2017

All legume crops benefit from the symbiotic relationship with Rhizobium which ensures a sufficient supply of nitrate through fixation to maintain growth and development of the mature crop. In agricultural systems, this supply of nitrogen is environmentally beneficial by reducing the crop's requirement for inorganic nitrogen application and also benefits a following crop, which is able to utilize the nitrogen residue left in the soil after harvest. This chapter describes the germination, vegetative growth, root development, flowering and pod development of peas, faba bean and Phaseolus beans. The botany and physiology of peas and Vicia beans is similar, though the natural weakness of pea stems is contrasted with the more erect habit of the stiffer-stemmed bean. Pea flowers are self-fertile, whilst pollination by insects vastly improves productivity in Vicia faba. Phaseolus beans are very varied in their growth habit and development and this variation provides a wide range of adapted types for both fresh pod and dry bean harvest.
Agronomy of peas and beans.
Authors: Biddle A. J.
Published: July 2017

Peas and beans have specific requirements for successful crop establishment, growth and yield of high-quality produce. Whilst there are many similarities in agronomy, particularly between peas and Vicia faba, the requirements for Phaseolus beans are not too dissimilar. The successful management of crops is dependent on a number of factors, including the use of high-quality seed, providing a suitable location and soil conditions for sowing and the supply of adequate nutrients and moisture to maintain growth. In addition, crops must be protected from weed competition and pests and diseases. This chapter discusses the seed establishment, plant population, sowing rate and date, as well as nutrient and water requirements of peas, V. faba and Phaseolus. Although peas and beans have little requirement for the addition of nitrogen fertilizer, the use of inoculants for crops grown in soils with an absence of rhizobia is a further consideration. Peas and beans are very drought sensitive and water requirements and applications either by natural means or by irrigation can be critical.
Management of weeds.
Authors: Biddle A. J.
Published: July 2017

This chapter discusses weed management in large-seeded legumes such as peas, faba beans and Phaseolus beans, using herbicides, cultural, and biological control methods. The armoury of chemical aids to control weeds in peas and beans is very small and the number of active ingredients for effective selective weed control is not likely to increase. This is now leading to an increased reliance on cultural methods of weed reduction and increasing innovations in management techniques.
Almond harvesting.
Authors: Carbó J. L. E. , Connell J. H.
Published: July 2017

This chapter focuses on almond optimal harvesting time, which may be defined as the stage when a very high percentage of fruits remain on the limbs, when kernels are of high quality and when the crop is ready to be harvested by the appropriate machine. The traditional harvesting systems in the Mediterranean region are described, including concepts related to the different harvest operations. The traditional harvesting systems use two approaches: ground picking and knocking down. The three main harvesting steps that must be considered are discussed: ground preparation, picking up nuts that have fallen to the ground and harvesting nuts from the tree. Controlling harvesting costs is essential in all almond-producing countries to keep almond growing profitable and to meet increasing demands in the future. A high level of mechanization using the best machinery for the conditions is essential, and cultivars and cultural practices must continually improve to keep orchards competitive.
Sensitivity analysis in poro-elastic and poro-visco-elastic models with respect to boundary data
Authors: Banks H. , Bekele-Maxwell K. , Bociu L. , Noorman M. , Guidoboni G.
Published: July 2017

In this article we consider poro-elastic and poro-visco-elastic models inspired by problems in medicine and biology, and we perform sensitivity analysis on the solutions of these fluid-solid mixture problems with respect to the imposed boundary data, which are the main drivers of the system. Moreover, we compare the results obtained in the elastic case vs. visco-elastic case, as it is known that structural viscosity of biological tissues decreases with age and disease. Sensitivity analysis is the first step towards optimization and control problems associated with these models, which is our ultimate goal.
Neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface: dryness, pain, and itch
Authors: Andersen Hjalte H. , Yosipovitch Gil , Galor Anat
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

This review aims to describe the recent findings on epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface, with a focus on potential similarities between sensations of dry eye, pain and itch.

Recent findings

A narrative review of the literature was undertaken. Key references from research in dry eye, neuropathic symptoms of the ocular surface, ocular pain and itch, as well as general references on itch and pain neurobiology were included. Recent findings suggest aspects of dry eye, chronic ocular pain and itch symptomatology are driven by neuropathic pain mechanisms involving peripheral and central sensitization processes.

Ocular dryness, pain, and itch are prevalent complaints with several of shared features. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that peripheral and central neuronal sensitization processes are involved in generating and maintaining ocular sensory symptoms. Research is warranted on the epidemiology of ocular sensations, molecular mechanisms involved in nociception and pruriception in the eye, electrophysiological alterations in animal models of eye conditions, and therapeutic modalities that can alleviate unpleasant ocular sensations.
Reducing catheter-associated urinary tract infections in the ICU
Authors: Sampathkumar Priya
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Patients in the ICU are at higher risk for catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) due to more frequent use of catheters and lower threshold for obtaining urine cultures. This review provides a summary of CAUTI reduction strategies that are specific to the intensive care setting.

Recent findings

The surveillance definition for CAUTI is imprecise and measures catheter-associated bacteriuria rather than true infection. Alternatives have been proposed, but CAUTI rates measured by this definition are currently required to be reported to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and high CAUTI rates can result in financial penalties. Although CAUTI may not directly result in significant patient harm, it has several indirect patient safety implications and CAUTI reduction has several benefits. Various bundles have been successful at reducing CAUTI both in individual institutions and on larger scales such as healthcare networks and entire states.

CAUTI reduction is possible in the ICU through a combination of reduced catheter usage, improved catheter care and stewardship of urine cultures.
Novel therapeutic approaches for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Tanhehco Yvette C. , Arepally Gowthami , Metjian Ara
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura is an immune-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy caused by antibodies to ADAMTS13 (A DisintegrinAndMetalloproteinase with aThromboSpondin type 1 motif, member13). Standard treatment with therapeutic plasma exchange and immunosuppression with steroids results in high remission and low mortality rates. However, a number of patients remain refractory to frontline therapy and/or experience multiple relapses. This study reviews emerging therapies for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.

Recent findings

Studies indicate that reducing anti-ADAMTS13 antibody levels through B-cell depletion or proteasome inhibition is effective for the management of refractory disease. Preliminary reports examining anti-CD20 therapy for the treatment of initial disease or as maintenance therapy for seropositive patients suggest the addition of immunosuppression in other disease phases may delay relapse. Exciting developments in targeted therapies to von Willebrand Factor and recombinant ADAMTS13 hold promise for transforming disease management.

Approximately half of patients diagnosed with acquired thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura experience refractory and/or relapsing disease. For these patients, a hematologic remission may be an insufficient therapeutic goal. With recent developments, it is now possible to envision a multifaceted approach targeting disease mechanisms that may dramatically improve outcomes for this otherwise debilitating disease.
Assessing the Transition Intervention Needs of Young Adults With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Klostermann Natalie R. , McAlpine Laura , Wine Eytan , Goodman Karen J. , Kroeker Karen I.
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

The transition of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients from pediatric to adult care can be challenging. Developing an effective transition intervention requires assessing the current transition experience for potential improvements, determining preferred content and format, and assessing patients’ transition skills.

Methods:

This mixed‐methods study of 20 transitioned IBD patients (ages 17–20 years) used semistructured interviews and validated assessments of self‐management/self‐advocacy and IBD knowledge. Interviews were analyzed thematically. Assessment scores were compared with published reference data by estimating proportion or mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:

The concept of a transition intervention was well‐received by participants. Preferred content centered on medications, disease and what to expect. Preferred ways to acquire knowledge were one‐on‐one instruction, handouts, and websites. Identified themes were “individualized and multifaceted,” “teach about transition,” and “support the shift in responsibility.” Among participants, 95% did not achieve 90% mastery of transition skills (0.6% higher [95% CI −10.7% to 9.5%] than the reference estimate) and the mean knowledge score was 15.15 (3.86 [95% CI 2.27 to 5.45] points higher than the reference estimate).

Conclusions:

We have identified preferred intervention formats and content as well as skill areas to target for improvement. As a result of this work, we will design a website intervention pertaining to identified themes.
Gender Difference in Cancer Patients’ Adherence to Analgesics and Related Outcomes of Pain Management
Authors: Chou Pi-Ling , Fang Su-Ying , Sun Jia-Ling , Rau Kun-Ming , Lee Bih-O
Published: July 2017

Background:

Males and females have significant differences in certain medical outcomes. However, little research has explored the gender differences in cancer patient perceptions of analgesics, the relationship between gender and analgesic adherence, or the effectiveness of pain management.

Objective:

The objectives of this study were to compare gender differences associated with hesitancy to use analgesics, analgesic adherence, or pain management effectiveness and to examine whether gender can precisely predict analgesic adherence.

Methods:

The study was conducted in the outpatient oncology department of a medical center in Taiwan. A descriptive and cross-sectional design was used. The study samples were collected from 362 cancer patients. The participants completed the short version of the Barriers Questionnaire–Taiwan, the Morisky Analgesics Adherence Measure–Taiwan version, the Brief Pain Inventory–Chinese version, the Pain Management Index, and a demographic and disease questionnaire.

Results:

The pain intensity and hesitancy to use analgesics scores were significantly higher among females than among males. The Pain Management Index results indicated that a larger percentage of males had adequate pain management. In addition, being male was a significant predictor of higher analgesic adherence (odds ratio, 1.93; P < .05).

Conclusions:

Gender could precisely predict cancer patients’ medication adherence. Women experienced significantly greater pain than did men but also had more hesitancy to use analgesics, lower adherence, and inadequate pain management.

Implications for Practice:

Healthcare professionals should consider women as a high-risk group for inadequate pain control. It is crucial for health providers to consider the gender discrepancy when attempting to improve cancer pain management.
Pilot Study of a Communication Coaching Telephone Intervention for Lung Cancer Caregivers
Authors: Wittenberg Elaine , Ferrell Betty , Koczywas Marianna , Del Ferraro Catherine , Ruel Nora H.
Published: July 2017

Background:

Family caregivers are a key communication source for nurses, and there is a need to provide communication skill building for caregivers.

Objective:

A pilot study was conducted to determine feasibility and use of a communication coaching telephone intervention aimed at improving caregiver confidence in communication and reducing psychological distress.

Methods:

A printed communication guide for caregivers and a 1-time communication coaching call delivered by a research nurse were provided to caregivers. Recruitment and attrition, implementation and content of coaching calls, caregiver outcomes, and satisfaction with intervention were analyzed.

Results:

Twenty caregivers were recruited across 4 cohorts—diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and end of life—with recruitment greater than 70%. Caregiver calls averaged 37 minutes, and most caregivers reported communication challenges with family members. Caregiver action plans revealed a need to develop communication skills to ask for help and share information. Caregivers reported satisfaction with the print guide, and 90% of caregivers followed through with their action plan, with 80% reporting that the action plan worked. Caregiver confidence in communication with healthcare providers was improved, except for caregivers of cancer survivors.

Conclusions:

Recruitment and attrition rates demonstrate feasibility of the intervention. Caregivers reported that the communication coaching telephone intervention was considered valuable and they were able to implement a communication action plan with others.

Implications for Practice:

Lessons were learned about intervention content, namely, that nurses can help caregivers learn communication strategies for asking for help, sharing cancer information, and initiating self-care.
Native or promiscuous? Analyzing putative dimethylsulfoniopropionate lyases using a substrate proofing approach
Authors: Lei Lei , Cherukuri Kesava Phaneendra , Meltzer Diana , Alcolombri Uria , Tawfik Dan S.
Published: July 2017

Enzyme promiscuity is widely spread. Foremost, within superfamilies, the native function of one enzyme is typically observed as promiscuous activity in related enzymes. The native function usually exhibits high catalytic efficiency while promiscuous activities are weak, but this is not always the case. Thus, for certain enzymes it remains questionable whether their currently known activity is native or promiscuous. Dimethylsulfon-iopropionate (DMSP) is an abundant marine metabolite cleaved via β-elimination to release dimethylsulfide (DMS). Eight different gene families have been identified as putative DMSP lyases, 5 of them belonging to the same superfamily (cupin-DLL; see the accompanying paper). Some of these enzymes exhibit very low activity, but this can be due to suboptimal folding or reaction conditions. We developed a substrate profiling approach with the aim of distinguishing native DMSP lyases from enzymes that promiscuously act as DMSP lyases. In a native DMSP lyase, relatively small changes in the structure of DMSP should induce significant activity drops. We thus profiled substrate selectivity by systematically modifying DMSP while retaining reactivity. Three enzymes that exhibit the highest activity with DMSP also exhibited high sensitivity to perturbation of DMSP’s structure (Alma, DddY, and DddL). The two enzymes with the weakest DMSP lyase activity also showed the highest crossreactivity (DddQ, DddP). Combined with other indications, it appears that the DMSP lyase activity of DddQ and DddP is promiscuous although their native function remains unknown. Systematic substrate profiling could help identify and assign potential DMSP lyases, and possibly applied to other enzymes.

Abbreviations

DMSP, dimethylsulfoniopropionate; DMS, dimethylsulfide; cupin-DLL, cupin DMSP lyase and lyase-like.

Funding

Financial support by the Estate of Mark Scher, and the Sasson & Marjorie Peress Philanthropic Fund, are gratefully acknowledged. D.S.T. is the Nella and Leon Benoziyo Professor of Biochemistry.
Enrichment of the HIV reservoir in CD32+ CD4 T cells occurs early in blood and tissue
Authors: Martin Genevieve E , Pace Matthew , Thornhill John P , Phetsouphanh Chansavath , Meyerowitz Jodi , Gossez Morgane , Hopkins Emily , Brown Helen , Robinson Nicola , Olejniczak Natalia , Ramjee Gita , Kaleebu Pontiano , Porter Kholoud , Willberg Christian , Klenerman Paul , Nwokolo Nneka , Fox Julie , Fidler Sarah , Frater John
Published: July 2017

The Fc receptor CD32 has been proposed as a marker for CD4 T cells latently infected with HIV. We demonstrate that enrichment for HIV DNA in CD32+ CD4 T cells can be found early in infection in both tissue and blood. However, we find no evidence for a correlation between CD32 expression on CD4 T cells and either HIV DNA levels or time to rebound viraemia following treatment interruption. CD32+ CD4 T cells have a more differentiated memory phenotype, and high levels of expression of immune checkpoint receptors PD-1, Tim-3 and TIGIT as well as the activation marker, HLA DR. There was no difference in the phenotype or frequency of CD32 expressing cells prior to or after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy, or compared with healthy controls, suggesting that preferential infection or survival, rather than up-regulation, may be responsible for the observed enrichment of proviral HIV DNA in CD32+ CD4 T cells.
Temperature-dependent thermal properties of Ru/C multilayers
Authors: Yan Shuai , Jiang Hui , Wang Hua , He Yan , Li Aiguo , Zheng Yi , Dong Zhaohui , Tian Naxi
Published: July 2017

Multilayers made of Ru/C are the most promising candidates when working in the energy region 8–20 keV. The stability of its thermal properties, including thermal expansion and thermal conduction, needs to be considered for monochromator or focusing components. Ru/C multilayers with periodic thicknesses of 3, 4 and 5 nm were investigated in situ by grazing-incidence X-ray reflectometry and diffuse scattering in order to study their thermal expansion characteristics as a function of annealing temperature up to 400°C. The thermal conductivity of multilayers with the same structure was also measured by the transient hot-wire method and compared with bulk values.