bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marinobufagenin and left ventricular mass in young adults: The African-PREDICT study
Authors: Strauss Michél , Smith Wayne , Kruger Ruan , Wei Wen , Fedorova Olga V , Schutte Aletta E
Published: July 2018

Background

The endogenous steroidal inhibitor of sodium–potassium-dependent adenosine triphosphate and natriuretic hormone, marinobufagenin, plays a physiological role in ionic homeostasis. Animal models suggest that elevated marinobufagenin adversely associates with cardiac and renal, structural and functional alterations. It remains uncertain whether marinobufagenin relates to the early stages of target organ damage development, especially in young adults without cardiovascular disease. We therefore explored whether elevated 24-hour urinary marinobufagenin excretion was related to indices of subclinical target organ damage in young healthy adults.

Design

This cross-sectional study included 711 participants from the African-PREDICT study (black 51%, men 42%, 24.8 ± 3.02 years).

Methods

We assessed cardiac geometry and function by two-dimensional echocardiography and pulse wave Doppler imaging. 24-Hour urinary marinobufagenin and sodium excretion were measured, and the estimated glomerular filtration rate determined.

Results

Across marinobufagenin excretion quartiles, left ventricular mass ( P < 0.001), end diastolic volume ( P < 0.001), stroke volume ( P = 0.004) and sodium excretion ( P < 0.001) were higher within the fourth compared with the first quartile. Partial regression analyses indicated that left ventricular mass ( r = 0.08, P = 0.043), end diastolic volume ( r = 0.10, P = 0.010) and stroke volume ( r = 0.09, P = 0.022) were positively related to marinobufagenin excretion. In multivariate-adjusted regression analysis, left ventricular mass associated positively with marinobufagenin excretion only in the highest marinobufagenin excretion quartile (adjusted R2 = 0.20; β = 0.15; P = 0.043). This relationship between left ventricular mass and marinobufagenin excretion was evident in women (adjusted R2 = 0.06; β = 0.127; P = 0.015) but not in men (adjusted R2 = 0.06; β = 0.007; P = 0.92).

Conclusions

Left ventricular mass positively and independently associates with marinobufagenin excretion in young healthy adults with excessively high marinobufagenin excretion. Women may be more sensitive to the effects of marinobufagenin on early structural cardiac changes.
Human adult HSCs can be discriminated from lineage-committed HPCs by the expression of endomucin
Authors: Reckzeh Kristian , Kizilkaya Hüsün , Helbo Alexandra Søgaard , Alrich Montserrat Estruch , Deslauriers André Gundersen , Grover Amit , Rapin Nicolas , Asmar Fazila , Grønbæk Kirsten , Porse Bo , Borregaard Niels , Vestweber Dietmar , Nerlov Claus , Theilgaard-Mönch Kim
Published: July 2018

Key Points

EMCN is a novel marker of human HSCs. EMCN is a more specific marker of HSCs than CD34 as it can discriminate HSCs from lineage-committed HPCs.
Adaptation and testing of an assessment for mental health and alcohol use problems among conflict-affected adults in Ukraine
Authors: Doty Benjamin , Haroz Emily E. , Singh Namrita S. , Bogdanov Sergiy , Bass Judith K. , Murray Laura K. , Callaway Karis L. , Bolton Paul A.
Published: July 2018

Background

In Ukraine, a large number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and veterans experience social and psychological problems as a result of the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Our purpose was to develop reliable and valid instruments to screen for common mental health and alcohol use problems in these populations.

Methods

We used a three-step process of instrument adaptation and testing. The instrument—the Mental Health Assessment Inventory (MHAI)—combines adapted standard screeners with items derived locally in Ukraine. A validity study was conducted using a sample of 153 adults (54% male) ages 18 years and older. All participants in the sample were IDPs or veterans living in or near the major urban areas of Kyiv and Zaporizhia. Reliability testing (internal consistency, test-retest) and validity testing (construct, criterion) of the MHAI were conducted using classical test theory. After initial testing, we used Item Response Theory (IRT) to shorten and further refine the instrument.

Results

The MHAI showed good internal consistency and test-retest reliability for the main outcomes: depression (α = 0.94; r = .84), post-traumatic stress (PTS; α = 0.97; r = 0.87), anxiety (α = 0.90; r = 0.80), and alcohol use (α = 0.86; r = 0.91). There was good evidence of convergent construct validity among the scales for depression, PTS, and anxiety, but not for alcohol use. Item Response Theory (IRT) analysis supported use of shortened versions of the scales for depression, PTS, and anxiety, as they retained comparable psychometric properties to the full scales of the MHAI.

Conclusion

The findings support the reliability and validity of the assessment—the MHAI—for screening of common mental health problems among Ukrainian IDPs and veterans. Use of IRT shortened the instrument to improve practicality and potential sustainability.
Clinical and Genomic Characterization of Treatment-Emergent Small-Cell Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer: A Multi-institutional Prospective Study
Authors: Aggarwal Rahul , Huang Jiaoti , Alumkal Joshi J. , Zhang Li , Feng Felix Y. , Thomas George V. , Weinstein Alana S. , Friedl Verena , Zhang Can , Witte Owen N. , Lloyd Paul , Gleave Martin , Evans Christopher P. , Youngren Jack , Beer Tomasz M. , Rettig Matthew , Wong Christopher K. , True Lawrence , Foye Adam , Playdle Denise , Ryan Charles J. , Lara Primo , Chi Kim N. , Uzunangelov Vlado , Sokolov Artem , Newton Yulia , Beltran Himisha , Demichelis Francesca , Rubin Mark A. , Stuart Joshua M. , Small Eric J.
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The prevalence and features of treatment-emergent small-cell neuroendocrine prostate cancer (t-SCNC) are not well characterized in the era of modern androgen receptor (AR)–targeting therapy. We sought to characterize the clinical and genomic features of t-SCNC in a multi-institutional prospective study.

Methods

Patients with progressive, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) underwent metastatic tumor biopsy and were followed for survival. Metastatic biopsy specimens underwent independent, blinded pathology review along with RNA/DNA sequencing.

Results

A total of 202 consecutive patients were enrolled. One hundred forty-eight (73%) had prior disease progression on abiraterone and/or enzalutamide. The biopsy evaluable rate was 79%. The overall incidence of t-SCNC detection was 17%. AR amplification and protein expression were present in 67% and 75%, respectively, of t-SCNC biopsy specimens. t-SCNC was detected at similar proportions in bone, node, and visceral organ biopsy specimens. Genomic alterations in the DNA repair pathway were nearly mutually exclusive with t-SCNC differentiation ( P = .035). Detection of t-SCNC was associated with shortened overall survival among patients with prior AR-targeting therapy for mCRPC (hazard ratio, 2.02; 95% CI, 1.07 to 3.82). Unsupervised hierarchical clustering of the transcriptome identified a small-cell–like cluster that further enriched for adverse survival outcomes (hazard ratio, 3.00; 95% CI, 1.25 to 7.19). A t-SCNC transcriptional signature was developed and validated in multiple external data sets with > 90% accuracy. Multiple transcriptional regulators of t-SCNC were identified, including the pancreatic neuroendocrine marker PDX1.

Conclusion

t-SCNC is present in nearly one fifth of patients with mCRPC and is associated with shortened survival. The near-mutual exclusivity with DNA repair alterations suggests t-SCNC may be a distinct subset of mCRPC. Transcriptional profiling facilitates the identification of t-SCNC and novel therapeutic targets.
Anesthesia for Pygopagus Conjoined Twins During Single-Twin and Simultaneous Pneumoperitoneum: A Case Report
Authors: Sara John-Paul , Kydes Ashley , Pryjdun Olena , Jacoby Michael , McBride Whitney , Pandya Samir , Barst Samuel
Published: July 2018

We present the case of the first stage of separation of 9-month-old pygopagus conjoined twins who demonstrated minimal shared vasculature on preoperative imaging and no cross-sedation or cross-neuromuscular blockade during separate inductions of anesthesia. Laparoscopy was implemented in 1 twin at a time, then in both twins simultaneously. Despite insufflation of a single-twin’s abdomen, both twins demonstrated hypercapnia and signs of a concomitant respiratory acidosis because of carbon dioxide diffusion through a shared peritoneal membrane. This is the first documented case of simultaneous laparoscopy-induced pneumoperitoneum in pygopagus conjoined twins.
Fiberoptic-Guided Use of an Airway Exchange Catheter During Exchange of a Kinked King LTS-D Laryngeal Tube for an Endotracheal Tube: A Case Report
Authors: Kelm Diana J. , Zhu Xun , Diedrich Daniel A. , Ritter Matthew J. , Gajic Ognjen
Published: July 2018

The use of supraglottic airway devices such as the King LTS-D laryngeal tube has increased in the prehospital setting because of their relative ease of successful insertion, even in the hands of inexperienced providers. However, these devices have their own associated complications. In patients with a known or suspected difficult airway, supraglottic airway device exchanges should occur under controlled conditions using an airway exchange catheter, preferably under direct visualization with a flexible fiberoptic bronchoscope. We report unanticipated difficulties with supraglottic airway exchange caused by a kinked King LTS-D laryngeal tube.
Ultrasound Imaging of the Inferior Vena Cava to Confirm Correct Guidewire Placement After Femoral Venous Cannulation in Critically Ill Neonates: A Case Report
Authors: G. N. Chennakeshavallu , Gadhinglajkar Shrinivas V. , Babu Saravana , Sreedhar Rupa , Kori Nandish M. , Kiran Molli
Published: July 2018

Ultrasound-guided femoral venous cannulation is frequently performed in neonates. Identification of femoral vessels under ultrasound navigation is unreliable and time consuming in hemodynamically unstable neonates with feeble femoral arterial pulse. Confirming the guidewire placement in a femoral vein is a crucial step for preventing inadvertent femoral artery dilation, which may be a challenging task in an emergency situation. We describe 2 incidents wherein guidewires placed via femoral veins in neonates were detected in the inferior vena cava on abdominal ultrasound. We advocate abdominal inferior vena cava imaging to confirm the correct placement of a guidewire placed via femoral vein in emergency situations.
Continuous Pectoral Fascia Blocks for Postoperative Analgesia After Median Sternotomy: A Case Report
Authors: Richard Alyce M. , Bain Sarah E. , Nikravan Sara , Lilley Ryan R. , Velamoor Gautam R. , Flaherty James M. , Hanson Neil A.
Published: July 2018

We report a novel case of a patient who presented for aortic valve replacement via median sternotomy. Bilateral continuous pectoral fascia blocks were placed to provide postoperative analgesia. Both numerical rating scale pain scores and opioid consumption after surgery were suggestive of analgesic benefit.
Anaphylactic Reactions to Native and Light-Exposed Sugammadex Suggested by Basophil Activation Test: A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Yamada Takashige , Suzuki Takeshi , Murase Reiko , Nagata Hiromasa , Kosugi Shizuko
Published: July 2018

We describe 2 patients who developed anaphylactic shock after sugammadex administration during anesthesia. Both had no history of prior sugammadex administration. The serum tryptase concentrations were elevated after the allergic reaction. Basophil activation testing 1 month after the events was positive for sugammadex in 1 patient, and negative in the other. However, it was positive for light-exposed sugammadex solution in both patients, suggesting a possible allergic reaction to a denatured compound of sugammadex generated by light exposure of the sugammadex solution.
Development of an Objective Structured Clinical Examination Using the American Board of Anesthesiology Content Outline for the Objective Structured Clinical Examination Component of the APPLIED Certification Examination
Authors: Tanaka Pedro , Adriano Aileen , Ngai Lynn , Park Yoon Soo , Marty Adrian , Wakatsuki Shin , Brun Carlos , Harrison Kyle , Bushell Erin , Thomsen Jakob Louis Demant , Wen Louise , Painter Christopher , Chen Marianne , Macario Alex
Published: July 2018

The goal of this study was to use the American Board of Anesthesiology Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) content outline as a blueprint to develop and administer a 9-station mock OSCE with station-specific checklists to senior residents (n = 14). The G- and Ф-coefficient reliability estimates were 0.76 and 0.61, respectively. Residents judged the scenarios as either extremely or somewhat realistic (88%). It is feasible to develop and administer a mock OSCE with rigorous psychometric characteristics.
General Anesthetic Management of a Child With Horseshoe Lung and Left Lung Hypoplasia for Cheiloplasty: A Case Report
Authors: Sato(Boku) Aiji , Morita Maki , Ota Haruko , Kamimura Yuji , Ito Hidekazu , So MinHye , Tamura Tetsuya , Kako Eisuke , Harada Jun , Sobue Kazuya
Published: July 2018

Horseshoe lung is an extremely rare congenital malformation in which the right and left lungs are fused due to stenosis of the lung parenchyma. In anesthetic management, it is important to avoid hypoxemia and hypercapnia caused by a decline in lung capacity and functional residual capacity. A 3-year-old boy with horseshoe lung and left lung hypoplasia was scheduled to undergo cheiloplasty. Regarding respiratory management, to prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia, we avoided intraoperative peripheral airway obstruction with positive end-expiratory pressure, set a long inspiratory phase time for sufficient alveolar expansion, and maintained sufficient gas exchange in lungs with low reserve capacity.
Combined Superficial and Deep Serratus Plane Block With Bupivacaine, Dexamethasone, and Clonidine in the Treatment of a Patient With Postmastectomy Pain Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Maranto Christopher J. , Strickland Natalie R. , Goree Johnathan H.
Published: July 2018

Postmastectomy pain syndrome poses a significant treatment challenge. We present the case of a 42-year-old woman who presented to our pain clinic with a 16-month history of postmastectomy pain. We performed a combined superficial and deep serratus plane block using bupivacaine, dexamethasone, and clonidine. At 1-month follow-up, the patient had 100% pain relief. At 2-month follow-up, her pain was 5/10. The block was repeated with the same drugs at 3 months with similar pain relief. This case illustrates the utility of a combined superficial and deep serratus plane block in postmastectomy pain syndrome with a possible benefit from added dexamethasone and clonidine.
In Situ Cold Perfusion of the Liver on Cardiopulmonary Bypass: Coagulopathy and Its Correction: A Case Report
Authors: Haque Mohammed , Van Rensburg Adriaan , McCluskey Stuart , Meineri Massimiliano , Parotto Matteo
Published: July 2018

We report a case of profound coagulopathy after the dual insult of cold in-situ perfusion of the liver and cardiopulmonary bypass in a patient undergoing complex hepatobiliary and cardiovascular surgery. Management of this coagulopathy with conventional blood products was hindered by elevated venous pressures, thought to contribute to persistent bleeding and risked liver and right ventricular dysfunction, necessitating a change in strategy. Anesthesiologists should consider fluid-restrictive strategies to correct coagulopathy in combined liver and cardiac surgery.
Anesthetic Considerations for a Patient With Chronic Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Datta Resham , Panchamia Jason K.
Published: July 2018

Systemic capillary leak syndrome (SCLS) is an idiopathic vascular hyperpermeability that leads to profound hypotension, hypoalbuminemia, and hemoconcentration. Sixty years since its inauguration into literature, SCLS is still elusive, underdiagnosed, and profoundly dangerous. Few authors have documented anesthetic implications of classical acute SCLS, a form with complete recovery between exacerbations. However, minimal information is available about chronic SCLS, continuous generalized edema with or without exacerbations. Both forms are postulated to have similar pathogenesis, yet clinical differences are noteworthy, warranting variations in perioperative management. We present a patient with chronic SCLS who underwent general and regional anesthesia for elective surgery.
Anesthetic Considerations for Ivor-Lewis Esophagectomy in a Patient With Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: A Case Report
Authors: Yang Phillip F. , Links David J. R. , Petrovski Johnny
Published: July 2018

Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), also known as familial spastic paraparesis or Strümpell-Lorrain disease, is a rare group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive spastic weakness in the lower limbs due to axonal degeneration of the corticospinal tracts. We describe the anesthetic management of a 52-year-old man with HSP who underwent an Ivor-Lewis esophagectomy for esophageal adenocarcinoma. This is the first report in the literature describing the anesthetic management of a patient with HSP successfully undergoing complex thoracoabdominal surgery. Key to the provision of postoperative analgesia was the intraoperative placement of catheters in the right thoracic paravertebral space and retro-rectus plane for continuous infusion of ropivacaine 0.2% for 3 days, as well as a fentanyl patient-controlled analgesia for 7 days.
Exchange Autotransfusion for Rapid Correction of Hyperkalemia During Liver Transplantation: A Case Report
Authors: Yoon Uzung , Gerney Garrett , Hsu George , Elia Elia , Kang Yoogoo
Published: July 2018

A 46-year-old woman with alcoholic cirrhosis and hepatorenal syndrome requiring hemodialysis presented with hyperkalemia (5.5 mEq/L) immediately before liver transplantation. For correction of hyperkalemia, an exchange transfusion began by removing her blood into an autotransfusion system to wash out noncellular components while maintaining normovolemia. Additionally, she received washed homologous red blood cells, insulin, and glucose to minimize or reduce the degree of hyperkalemia. Serum potassium level decreased to 4.0 mEq/L within 3 hours and was 5.0 mEq/L 30 seconds after reperfusion of the grafted liver. Postreperfusion syndrome was not observed. In summary, exchange transfusion was used successfully for rapid correction of hyperkalemia, showing the value of its application in liver transplantation.
TOR signaling in plants: conservation and innovation
Authors: Shi Lin , Wu Yue , Sheen Jen
Published: July 2018

Target of rapamycin (TOR) is an evolutionarily conserved protein kinase that plays a central role in both plants and animals, despite their distinct developmental programs and survival strategies. Indeed, TOR integrates nutrient, energy, hormone, growth factor and environmental inputs to control proliferation, growth and metabolism in diverse multicellular organisms. Here, we compare the molecular composition, upstream regulators and downstream signaling relays of TOR complexes in plants and animals. We also explore and discuss the pivotal functions of TOR signaling in basic cellular processes, such as translation, cell division and stem/progenitor cell regulation during plant development.
The effects of obesity on skeletal muscle contractile function
Authors: Tallis Jason , James Rob S. , Seebacher Frank
Published: July 2018

Obesity can cause a decline in contractile function of skeletal muscle, thereby reducing mobility and promoting obesity-associated health risks. We reviewed the literature to establish the current state-of-knowledge of how obesity affects skeletal muscle contraction and relaxation. At a cellular level, the dominant effects of obesity are disrupted calcium signalling and 5′-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity. As a result, there is a shift from slow to fast muscle fibre types. Decreased AMPK activity promotes the class II histone deacetylase (HDAC)-mediated inhibition of the myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2). MEF2 promotes slow fibre type expression, and its activity is stimulated by the calcium-dependent phosphatase calcineurin. Obesity-induced attenuation of calcium signalling via its effects on calcineurin, as well as on adiponectin and actinin affects excitation–contraction coupling and excitation–transcription coupling in the myocyte. These molecular changes affect muscle contractile function and phenotype, and thereby in vivo and in vitro muscle performance. In vivo, obesity can increase the absolute force and power produced by increasing the demand on weight-supporting muscle. However, when normalised to body mass, muscle performance of obese individuals is reduced. Isolated muscle preparations show that obesity often leads to a decrease in force produced per muscle cross-sectional area, and power produced per muscle mass. Obesity and ageing have similar physiological consequences. The synergistic effects of obesity and ageing on muscle function may exacerbate morbidity and mortality. Important future research directions include determining: the relationship between time course of weight gain and changes in muscle function; the relative effects of weight gain and high-fat diet feeding per se; the effects of obesity on muscle function during ageing; and if the effects of obesity on muscle function are reversible.
Phenotypic plasticity of Drosophila suzukii wing to developmental temperature: implications for flight
Authors: Fraimout Antoine , Jacquemart Pauline , Villarroel Bruno , Aponte David J. , Decamps Thierry , Herrel Anthony , Cornette Raphaël , Debat Vincent
Published: July 2018

Phenotypic plasticity has been proposed as a mechanism that facilitates the success of biological invasions. In order to test the hypothesis of an adaptive role for plasticity in invasions, particular attention should be paid to the relationship between the focal plastic trait, the environmental stimulus and the functional importance of the trait. The Drosophila wing is particularly amenable to experimental studies of phenotypic plasticity. Wing morphology is known for its plastic variation under different experimental temperatures, but this plasticity has rarely been investigated in a functional context of flight. Here, we investigate the effect of temperature on wing morphology and flight in the invasive pest species Drosophila suzukii. Although the rapid invasion of both Europe and North America was most likely facilitated by human activities, D. suzukii is also expected to disperse actively. By quantifying wing morphology and individual flight trajectories of flies raised under different temperatures, we tested whether (1) invasive populations of D. suzukii show higher phenotypic plasticity than their native counterparts, and (2) wing plasticity affects flight parameters. Developmental temperature was found to affect both wing morphology and flight parameters (in particular speed and acceleration), leaving open the possibility of an adaptive value for wing plasticity. Our results show no difference in phenotypic plasticity between invasive and native populations, rejecting a role for wing plasticity in the invasion success.
ΚΑΛΛΙΕΡΓΕΙΑ ΤΟΥ ΙΟΥ ΤΗΣ ΠΑΝΩΛΟΥΣ ΤΩΝ ΧΟΙΡΩΝ ΕΠΙ ΚΥΤΤΑΡΟΚΑΛΛΙΕΡΓΗΜΑΤΩΝ ΜΕ ΕΜΦΑΝΙΣΙΝ ΚΥΤΤΟΠΑΘΟΛΟΓΙΚΟΥ ΦΑΙΝΟΜΕΝΟΥ
Authors: ΜΕΝΑΣΕ Ι. , ΣΤΟΦΟΡΟΣ ΕΥΘ. , BALDUCCI D.
Published: July 2018

NO ABSTRACT AVAILABLE
Recent advances in understanding body weight homeostasis in humans
Authors: Müller Manfred J. , Geisler Corinna , Heymsfield Steven B. , Bosy-Westphal Anja
Published: July 2018

Presently, control of body weight is assumed to exist, but there is no consensus framework of body weight homeostasis. Three different models have been proposed, with a “set point” suggesting (i) a more or less tight and (ii) symmetric or asymmetric biological control of body weight resulting from feedback loops from peripheral organs and tissues (e.g. leptin secreted from adipose tissue) to a central control system within the hypothalamus. Alternatively, a “settling point” rather than a set point reflects metabolic adaptations to energy imbalance without any need for feedback control. Finally, the “dual intervention point” model combines both paradigms with two set points and a settling point between them. In humans, observational studies on large populations do not provide consistent evidence for a biological control of body weight, which, if it exists, may be overridden by the influences of the obesogenic environment and culture on personal behavior and experiences. To re-address the issue of body weight homeostasis, there is a need for targeted protocols based on sound concepts, e.g. lean rather than overweight subjects should be investigated before, during, and after weight loss and weight regain. In addition, improved methods and a multi-level–multi-systemic approach are needed to address the associations (i) between masses of individual body components and (ii) between masses and metabolic functions in the contexts of neurohumoral control and systemic effects. In the future, simplifications and the use of crude and non-biological phenotypes (i.e. body mass index and waist circumference) should be avoided. Since changes in body weight follow the mismatch between tightly controlled energy expenditure at loosely controlled energy intake, control (or even a set point) is more likely to be about energy expenditure rather than about body weight itself.
OM Forum—New Opportunities for Operations Management Research in Sustainability
Authors: Agrawal Vishal V. , Atasu Atalay , Van Wassenhove Luk N.
Published: July 2018

Operations management (OM) research has made several important contributions to environmental sustainability over the last two decades. In this article, we point to a new opportunity on the horizon—the circular economy movement, which is gaining significant traction in practice. We introduce the concept and highlight the building blocks behind it. We also explain why this trend in practice can provide an opportunity for the OM community. To do so, we describe four companies that have been positioned as prime examples of implementing the circular economy concept and discuss the operational challenges faced by them. We draw on them to identify several promising and open questions for OM research and explain why an operations perspective is critical in this context.
Crowdsourced Delivery—A Dynamic Pickup and Delivery Problem with Ad Hoc Drivers
Authors: Arslan Alp M. , Agatz Niels , Kroon Leo , Zuidwijk Rob
Published: July 2018

The trend toward shorter delivery lead times reduces operational efficiency and increases transportation costs for Internet retailers. However, mobile technology creates new opportunities to organize the last mile. In this paper, we study the concept of crowdsourced delivery that aims to use excess capacity on journeys that already take place. We consider a service platform that automatically creates matches between parcel delivery tasks and ad hoc drivers. The platform also operates a fleet of dedicated vehicles to serve the tasks that cannot be served by the ad hoc drivers. The matching of tasks, drivers, and dedicated vehicles in real time gives rise to a new variant of the dynamic pickup and delivery problem. We propose a rolling horizon framework and develop an exact solution approach to solve the matching problem each time new information becomes available. To investigate the potential benefit of crowdsourced delivery, we conduct a wide range of computational experiments. The experiments provide insights into the viability of crowdsourced delivery under various assumptions about the behavior of the ad hoc drivers. The results suggest that the use of ad hoc drivers has the potential to make the last mile more cost-efficient and can provide system-wide vehicle-mile savings up to 37% compared to a traditional delivery system with dedicated vehicles.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2017.0803 .
The importance of relationships in international collaborations
Authors: Rosser Elizabeth
Published: July 2018

Elizabeth Rosser, Acting Executive Dean, Bournemouth University, considers the human aspects of global partnerships and the sense of belonging that comes with actively engaging with others in the profession
Celebrating the contribution of nurses to policy and practice development
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: July 2018

Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses the contribution that nurses have made to policy and practice since the inception of the NHS 70 years ago
Making online life safer for pupils
Authors: Feuchtwang Anna
Published: July 2018

How should teachers' work in the classroom act alongside legislation to ensure children can enjoy a safer internet? Anna Feuchtwang discusses
The influence of the smartphone: Part 6
Authors: Thornton Stephanie
Published: July 2018

Smartphones are changing the cultural influences on children's development. In the final part of her six-part series, Dr Stephanie Thornton considers the links between smartphone use and teenagers' health
Building a whole-school approach to essential skills
Authors: Ravenscroft Tom
Published: July 2018

Tom Ravenscroft looks at how schools can adopt a whole-school approach to essential skills while still meeting curriculum demands
Learning the risks of porn
Authors: Phipps Sam
Published: July 2018

Teenagers are increasingly getting addicted to internet pornography, with dire effects in and out of the classroom. An Edinburgh-based charity is tackling the issue with pilot lessons in four secondaries. Sam Phipps explains
Effective support staff CPD
Authors: Cunningham Maria
Published: July 2018

Many schools neglect CPD for pupil-facing support staff, despite the clear impact it could have on student outcomes. Maria Cunningham advises
The endophytic bacteria producing IAA (Indole Acetic Acid) in Arachis hypogaea
Authors: HERLINA LINA , PUKAN KRISPINUS KEDATI , MUSTIKANINGTYAS DEWI
Published: July 2018

Herlina L, Pukan KK, Mustikaningtyas D. 2017. The endophytic bacteria producing IAA (Indole Acetic Acid) in Arachis hypogaea. Cell Bio Dev 1: 31-35. Endophytic bacteria are bacteria living in plant tissue and forming colony without harms the host. Every cormophyte, plants that have a stem and root, may contain some endophytic bacteria which can produce biological compounds or secondary metabolites. The objective of the study was to obtain endophytic bacteria isolates from peanut plants (Arachis hypogaea) at three locations, and to test in vitro the ability of endophytic bacteria isolates for producing IAA, and also to analyze IAA on the growth and development of mungbean plants. The study was carried out in three stages; the first was the isolation of endophytic bacteria from the leaves, stems, and roots; the second was the test of in vitro endophytic bacteria isolates to know the ability of IAA production. IAA assay was measured by using a spectrophotometer with a wavelength of 535 nm, and the third was the introduction of IAA-producing endophytic bacteria in mungbean. The parameters observed were the length of sprouts and the number of lateral roots. The results showed that 16 isolates were selected based on IAA-producing ability. The isolates could produce different IAA with different morphological characteristics. After the fourth day of incubation, the highest and the lowest of IAA amount were 69.68 (mg L-1) and 8.50 (mg L-1) respectively. Isolates that produce high IAA levels are applied to mungbeans, it affects the number of lateral roots but it does not have effect on the length of the sprouts. DM and K1K1 isolates have the effect of increasing lateral root formation and are expected to be potential sources of bioactive metabolites.
Ant Community in Neotropical Agrosystems: A Four-Year Study in Conventional and No-Tillage Systems
Authors: Fernandes Wedson Desidério , Lange Denise , Pereira Janser Moura , Raizer Josué
Published: July 2018

Studies comparing agricultural practices that maintain a better quality and a healthy soil fauna consider the no-tillage farming as the most effective practice when compared to other planting techniques. In order to evaluate the influence of the no-tillage and conventional tillage methods (with and without manipulation of the soil before planting, respectively) on ant communities, we monitored two areas with these two types of practice (conventional and no-tillage) over the period of four years. We collected ants once per month along 10 transects randomly distributed using three pitfall traps in each area. In addition, we collected the dead plant biomass present at each point sampled as a parameter for measuring the environmental complexity of the areas. In total, we captured 27,480 individuals belonging to 26 species in the no-tillage area and 24,570 individuals belonging to 24 species in the conventional tillage area. The generalised linear model analysis showed that the no-tillage system had the highest abundance of individuals, as well as richness and diversity of species, during most of the study period, as compared to conventional tillage areas. We also found a significant positive correlation between species richness and dead plant biomass. Thus, it is possible to infer that the no-tillage area is a more complex environment with a greater diversity of ants and, therefore, a more sustainable agrosystem as compared to conventional tillage areas.
Neotropical Swarm-Founding Wasps (Vespidae: Polistinae: Epiponini) Accept Expelled Queens in Case of Queen Loss
Authors: Chavarria-Pizarro Laura , Silva Marjorie , Noll Fernando Barbosa
Published: July 2018

In the Epiponini, queen number declines through colony cycle, becausesome queens are expelled from colonies. Here we demonstratethat Epiponini wasps may accept expelled queens in situations ofqueenlessness. One colony of Protopolybia exigua was observed at theUniversity of São Paulo in Brazil; and another of Metapolybia docilis wasobserved at La Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica. Queen removaltests were performed to study workers’ acceptance of expelled queensand queens from other colonies. In P. exigua, the experimental queenelimination caused a change in the workers’ behavior, ranging fromaggressive expulsion of non-selected queens to re-acceptance. In M.docilis workers were willing to accept queens from other colonies afterqueen elimination. Our results indicate that because of a decrease inworkers aggressiveness during the colony cycle, workers may acceptexpelled queens (even foreign ones, in experimental situations) in orderto ensure colony survival.
Children in jobless households across Europe: evidence on the association with medium- and long-term outcomes
Authors: Macmillan Lindsey , Gregg Paul , Jerrim John , Shure Nikki
Published: July 2018

The proportion of children living in a jobless household is a key indicator of social exclusion across Europe. Yet there is little evidence on the extent to which this measure of childhood deprivation is associated with later life outcomes. We use two harmonised cross-national data sources to consider the association between children experiencing jobless households and three medium- and longterm outcomes for the first time: education, adult joblessness and adult poverty. We find evidence of large penalties across all three outcomes in some countries while in other countries there are no longer-term associations with this indicator of social exclusion.
Arquitectura y videojuegos Escenarios reales para entornos virtuales
Authors: Cabeza González Manuel , López Yeste José Ramón
Published: July 2018

La mejora tecnológica que en las últimas décadas ha experimentado la industria de los videojuegos, ha propiciado la utilización de escenarios cada vez más realistas que, por su similitud con el entorno representado, consiguen llamar de manera más efectiva la atención del usuario, a la vez que garantizan una profunda inmersión del mismo en el juego. En este acercamiento a la realidad arquitectónica de los escenarios utilizados en los videojuegos, el empleo de modelos virtuales obtenidos a partir de levantamientos arquitectónicos llevados a cabo con las últimas tecnologías, como son el escáner láser o la fotogrametría, permite llegar al máximo de la fidelidad con el modelo original. Este modelo tridimensional es construido a partir de millones de medidas de la realidad (nubes de puntos) y si la precisión configurada en los equipos de medición es lo suficientemente alta y disponemos de información de color, estas nubes de puntos ya pueden considerarse una representación virtual realista del objeto. Con un posterior procesamiento de los datos se consiguen superficies texturizadas, generadas como una Red Irregular Triangulada. Esta superficie texturizada permite realizar al modelo digital numerosos estudios de diversa naturaleza, además de ser mucho más apta para visualizaciones realistas que la nube de puntos original. Esta nueva representación digital de la realidad, propia del registro del Patrimonio Arquitectónico, con un procesamiento adecuado de los datos puede ser utilizada como matriz ideal para la creación de escenarios virtuales en el diseño de videojuegos que a su vez, con los correspondientes algoritmos de reconversión, pueden ser enfocados al estudio de las dinámicas urbanas por posibilitar la recogida y procesado de datos de un gran número de usuarios que facilitan un trabajo de campo inabordable de otra manera por razones tanto temporales como económicas.
Learning from the Past: Reflecting on the Maya-ICBG Controversy in the Classroom
Authors: Shebitz Daniela , Oviedo Angela
Published: July 2018

In the 1990s, the Maya-ICBG (International Cooperative Biodiversity Group) was one of the major bioprospecting projects in Chiapas, Mexico and was designed to incorporate traditional knowledge into pharmaceutical research. The researchers had hopes of benefiting Indigenous communities economically and technologically while conserving plants and traditional knowledge. Unfortunately, the project experienced local and international opposition who accused the project of exploiting Indigenous people and privatizing their knowledge. We present a teaching module in the form of an interrupted case study in which participants learn about the ethnobotanical study that shifted from one of promise to one of controversy. The history of the development of the case study over the past decade is told from both a faculty and a student perspective. The purpose of this perspective article and of our case study in general is to bring the conversation of ethics to the forefront of ethnobiology. Although the Maya-ICBG project was brought to a close in 2001, the case study is still relevant in both a historical context and as a means to discuss ethics and Prior Informed Consent.
Calculation Of Pressure Rise And Energy Of Hot Gases Due To High Energy Arcing Faults In The Metal-clad Switchgear
Authors: Iwata M. , Miyagi T. , Goda Y. , Shirai K.
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the 3-D CFD calculation results of the pressure rise due to the High Energy Arcing Faults (HEAFs) in the metal-clad switchgears. The calculations were performed considering the came-oﬀ of the roof panel that was observed in the arc tests. The calculated pressure development approximately agreed with the measured one. Furthermore, the energy of hot gases exhausted from the broken roof panel was calculated to investigate the thermal eﬀect of hot gases.
Application Of Rf (13.56 MHz) Arc Discharge For Plasma Chemical Conversion Of Volatile Fluorides
Authors: Kornev R. A. , Sennikov P. G. , Nazarov V. V.
Published: July 2018

The report discusses the use of a new type of plasma source of hydrogen plasma based on a RF (13.56 MHz) arc discharge of atmospheric pressure between two electrodes. This discharge was used for hydrogen reduction of the tetrafluorides of silicon, boron and molybdenum. As a result of the studies, the main regularities of the hydrogen reduction process were established and the main synthesized products were determined. Samples of carbides of silicon, boron and molybdenum were prepared.
From Nursery Rhymes to Nationhood: Children’s Literature and the Construction of Canadian Identity by Elizabeth A. Galway
Authors: Lee Jon D.
Published: July 2018

Focusing on children’s literature from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, From Nursery Rhymes to Nationhood provides scholars of folklore, literature and history with a much-needed text that examines the role children’s literature played in forming Canadian national identity. As a whole, the book is well-written and free of academic jargon, and Galway, using 115 primary sources (i.e. 19th and 20th century children’s literature) and at least twice as many secondary sources (largely contemporary academic texts from various disciplines, including history and English), details well the many themes and ideals that permeated children’s literature in this formative era.
Optimizing the Localization of Distributed PV Products in the Distribution Network with regard to Uncertainty of Sun Radiation
Authors: Tajik Reza
Published: July 2018

Since the widespread and complexity of traditional networks, this paper is attempted to reduce the uncertainty in sun radiation by appropriate and optimal location of distributed PV products, and the efficiency of electrical energy is
increased. So, this work in term of type of method is an applied one in which fundamental research results are used to
improve and perfect the patterns and methods. The data collection tool in this paper is done in a library method.
Therefore, the information from books, dissertations, articles, previous practical databases and IEEE's library
distribution network model has been extracted to complete the evaluation of the theoretical framework of the study.
Also, optimization was performed with the aid of MATLAB software to increase the efficiency of solar cell production
power in the output. By doing so, the best place for solar panels is achieved due to the uncertainty of sun radiation
and finally, the power output using panels can be analyzed. In addition, it was found that the current and as a result,
the power generated by a PV unit is depended on radiation and its intensity. After that, through comparing different
points in power generation, a relative coefficient is obtained for placement of PV unit.
A Proposed Approach to De-speckle an Ultrasound Image using Anisotropic Filter by Generating Diffusion Tensor
Authors: Chauhan Poonam , Kaushik Vikas
Published: July 2018

Ultrasound imaging is a technique that is used to diagnose the diseases in medical field using radiology. US (ultrasound) imaging is a non -invasive technique and used for imaging of internal structure of the body without any kind of penetration which helps to identify the diseases that have probability and tissues. Many kinds of noises present in US images but the presence of speckle noise is a big challenge since last few years in biomedical field. Sometimes speckle noise becomes the part of information and vice-versa. So it becomes hard to find the disease for doctors. There are many de-speckled filters available for de-noising. This paper gives a proposed approach to de-speckled the US image using anisotropic diffusion filter by calculating the different numerical values like SSIM (structural similarity index), SNR (signal to noise ratio), MSE (mean square error), PSNR (peak signal to noise ratio), which results in coherence enhancement The proposed technique provides better and improved edge and coherence enhancement in ultrasound image data.
Present Practices in Design of Rubblemound Breakwaters for Coastal Harbours-A Review
Authors: Kudale Apurva M. , Sohon V. S. , Patil B. M. , Mahalingaiah A. V.
Published: July 2018

Harbour is defined as a place on a body of water that provides protection for the variety of ships from the coastal environmental parameters like waves, wind, tides and currents etc. Breakwaters are typically required for the harbours to provide desired tranquillity and protection for the ships approaching and mooring in the harbour. The harbour layout, the length and alignment of protective breakwater are decided through hydraulic model studies. Flexible rubblemound breakwater is the most commonly used type of breakwater. The hydraulic design of the breakwater structure is evolved through empirical methods and hydraulic model tests. Present methodology and model techniques used to design the cross-sections of rubblemound breakwaters are reviewed and illustrated with a case study of design of breakwaters for fisheries harbour. Suggestions are given to improve and optimize the design. Provision of a wider toe-berm and use of armour units with higher stability, significantly reduces the cost of rubblemound breakwater.
Haragei – bastion japońskości
Authors: Żeromska Estera
Published: July 2018

Haragei – bastion japońskości
Clarification of the term “normal material” used for standard atomic weights (IUPAC Technical Report)
Authors: Coplen Tyler B. , Holden Norman E. , Wieser Michael E. , Böhlke John Karl
Published: July 2018

The standard atomic weights of the elements apply to normal materials. Since 1984, the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights (Commission) has defined a normal material as:

“The material is a reasonably possible source for this element or its compounds in commerce, for industry or science; the material is not itself studied for some extraordinary anomaly and its isotopic composition has not been modified significantly in a geologically brief period.”

The term “a geologically brief period” in this definition is confusing, and confusion can be reduced by revising this definition to the following, which was accepted by the Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights at its meeting in Groningen, Netherlands in September 2017:

“Normal materials include all substances, except (1) those subjected to substantial deliberate, undisclosed, or inadvertent artificial isotopic modification, (2) extraterrestrial materials, and (3) isotopically anomalous specimens, such as natural nuclear reactor products from Oklo (Gabon) or other unique occurrences.”
Fear of losing Christianity in the Middle East. Remarks on extremism, genocide, mercy and youth from persecuted areas
Authors: Guzik Paulina
Published: July 2018

Terrorist attacks in Europe and the Middle East in July 2016 spread horror and fear throughout the world. Istanbul, Baghdad, Nice, Munich, Saint Etienne-du-Rouvray – only to name the most quoted in the media. Terror organisations such as Daesh, especially in the Middle East, were and are taking a heavy toll not only on people’s lives but also on their personal and collective identity, only to mention the very recent attack on the Egiptian mosque in November 2017 leaving over 300 people dead and hundrends injured. It proves that terrorists target all religious groups, including Muslims, nevertheless Christians are among the most suffering religious groups in the region. Physical violence is a major issue for Human Rights groups, but wiping out cultures and traditions with millenary roots is not a smaller challenge for the international community. However, Middle Eastern Christians, especially those of the young generation, have not lost all hope. It is true that some of them left Iraq and Syria, but many stay, hoping for a return to their homes, universities, jobs and businesses. This study aims to show the scale of persecution on Christians in the Middle East and their current legal status, but also tries to impart ideas for preserving Christianity in the region, based on the attitude of young Middle-Eastern Christians towards the issue.