bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemotherapy Drug Response to the L858R‐induced Conformational Change of EGFR Activation Loop in Lung Cancer
Authors: Ding Xi , Liu Xingcai , Song Xiaoyun , Yao Jun
Published: September 2016

Oncogenic L858R mutation of human epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) confers constitutive activation to the kinase and is frequently observed in the pathological process of metastatic lung cancer. Selective inhibition of EGFRL858R mutant over wild‐type EGFR (EGFRWT) has been established as an attractive target for cancer chemotherapy. Here, we performed long‐term molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to reconstruct the complete dynamics trajectory of L858R‐induced conformational change in EGFR activation loop (A‐loop). It was found that the mutation considerably destabilizes A‐loop in Src‐like inactive conformation and promotes the loop conversion to DFG‐in active form. Electrostatic force is primarily responsible for the conversion and stabilization upon the mutation. Binding free energy analysis revealed that Gefitinib exhibits strong selectivity for mutant over wild‐type kinases. The A‐loop conformation, but not L858R mutation, directly determines inhibitor affinity; the mutation can indirectly influence inhibitor binding via regulation of A‐loop conformation. Subsequently, chemical similarity searching was carried out with the structural sketch of Gefitinib against a large library of drug/lead‐like compounds, from which two hits were identified to have high selectivity for EGFRL858R over EGFRW; they can potently inhibit the kinase mutant with IC50 values at nanomolar level. The selectivity is primarily originated from hydrogen bond interactions of inhibitor ligands with mutant but not with wild type due to the A‐loop conformational difference.
Protein profile of seminal plasma and functionality of spermatozoa during the reproductive season in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Shaliutina‐Kolešová Anna , Kotas Petr , Štěrba Jan , Rodina Marek , Dzyuba Borys , Cosson Jacky , Linhart Otomar
Published: September 2016

The purpose of the study was to analyze seminal plasma composition, sperm production, and sperm motility over the course of the spawning season in the common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). The highest mean percent of motile sperm (carp, 98.3 ± 1.6%; rainbow trout, 92.8 ± 5.6%) and highest spermatozoon velocity (carp, 286.3 ± 7.8 μm sec−1; rainbow trout, 245.3 ± 8.3 μm sec−1) were observed in the middle phase of the spawning period, at 5 sec post‐activation. Sperm volume and concentration increased in the early spawning period, then decreased significantly toward the end of the season in both species. Seminal plasma osmolality was 262–270 mOsmol kg−1 from carp and 232–248 mOsmol kg−1 from rainbow trout, with little variation over the spawning period. Protein concentration in carp seminal plasma was stable throughout the reproductive season, whereas the highest protein level (2.1 ± 0.3 mg mL−1) in rainbow trout was observed in the middle phase of the spawning period. Seminal plasma composition in both species was analyzed using two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis combined with mass spectrometry. Thirteen differentially expressed protein spots in carp seminal plasma and sixteen spots in rainbow trout seminal plasma varied over the course of the reproductive season. The unique proteins identified are involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis, sperm motility, maintenance of sperm membrane lipid stability, and antioxidant protection. These results provide a deeper understanding of the role of fish seminal plasma proteins as well as a list of novel markers of sperm quality. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 968–982, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EXTENDING THE VALIDITY OF THE FAMILY INVOLVEMENT QUESTIONNAIRE–SHORT FORM FOR CULTURALLY AND LINGUISTICALLY DIVERSE FAMILIES FROM LOW‐INCOME BACKGROUNDS
Authors: Bulotsky‐Shearer Rebecca J. , Bouza Johayra , Bichay Krystal , Fernandez Veronica A. , Gaona Hernandez Patricia
Published: September 2016

The construct validity of the Family Involvement Questionnaire–Short Form (FIQ‐SF) was examined in an independent sample of ethnically and linguistically diverse low‐income families (N = 498) enrolled in an urban Head Start program in the Southeast. A series of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses replicated the three‐factor structure identified in initial validation studies with Northeast samples: home‐school conferencing, home‐based involvement, and school‐based involvement. Findings from multiple group confirmatory factor analyses provided evidence that the three‐factor structure was invariant across family ethnicity. multivariate analyses of variance also confirmed hypothesized mean differences on FIQ‐SF dimension scores across family demographic variables such as caregiver ethnicity, primary home language, caregiver education, employment, and marital status. Findings replicate and extend prior construct validity evidence to support the use of the FIQ‐SF by early childhood education programs such as Head Start serving diverse families from low‐income backgrounds. Implications for future research, practice, and policy applications in early childhood are discussed.
Improvement of kesterite solar cell performance by solution synthesized MoO3 interfacial layer
Authors: Ranjbar Samaneh , Brammertz Guy , Vermang Bart , Hadipour Afshin , Cong Shuren , Suganuma Katsuaki , Schnabel Thomas , Meuris Marc , da Cunha A. F. , Poortmans Jef
Published: September 2016

In this study, an ultra‐thin MoO3 layer synthesized by a solution‐based technique is introduced as a promising interfacial layer to improve the performance of kesterite Cu2ZnSnSe4 (CZTSe) solar cell. Solar cells with 10 nm of MoO3 between Mo rear contact and CZTSe had larger minority carrier life time and open‐circuit voltage compared to the reference solar cells. Temperature dependent current density–voltage measurement indicated that the activation energy (EA) of the main recombination is higher (∼ 837 meV) in solar cells with MoO3 layer, as compared to conventional solar cells where EA ∼ 770 meV, indicating reduced interface recombination. A best efficiency of 7.1% was achieved for a SLG/Mo/MoO3/CZTSe/CdS/TCO solar cell compared to the reference solar cell SLG/Mo/CZTSe/CdS/TCO for which 5.9% efficiency was achieved.
Well–dispersed assembled porphyrin nanorods on graphene for the enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: La Duong Duc , Rananaware Anushri , Salimimarand Mina , Bhosale Sheshanath V.
Published: September 2016

In this study, we report a facile synthetic protocol for the fabrication of well‐dispered porphyrin nanorods on the surface of graphene nanoplates (GNPs) by surfactant‐assisted self assembly of tetrakis (4‐carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP). The formation and crystalisation of GNPs‐supported TCPP nanorods were successfully characterized by SEM, XRD, FTIR, UV‐vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The assembled TCPP nanorods with a 50 nm diameter and ∼250 nm in length are well distributed on the GNPs and was confirmed by electron microscopy i.e SEM and TEM. The resulted hybrid material shows enhanced visible‐light photocatalytic activity compared to free standing TCPP nanorods toward the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). In addition, the photodegradation mechanism of RhB when using GNPs‐supported TCPP nanorods catalyst is also proposed.
Concise Review: Organ Engineering: Design, Technology, and Integration
Authors: Kaushik Gaurav , Leijten Jeroen , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: September 2016

Engineering complex tissues and whole organs has the potential to dramatically impact translational medicine in several avenues. Organ engineering is a discipline that integrates biological knowledge of embryological development, anatomy, physiology, and cellular interactions with enabling technologies including biocompatible biomaterials and biofabrication platforms such as three-dimensional bioprinting. When engineering complex tissues and organs, core design principles must be taken into account, such as the structure-function relationship, biochemical signaling, mechanics, gradients, and spatial constraints. Technological advances in biomaterials, biofabrication, and biomedical imaging allow for in vitro control of these factors to recreate in vivo phenomena. Finally, organ engineering emerges as an integration of biological design and technical rigor. An overall workflow for organ engineering and guiding technology to advance biology as well as a perspective on necessary future iterations in the field is discussed.
The Prospect of Infrastructure Public‐Private Partnerships in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities
Authors: Biygautane Mhamed , Hodge Graeme , Gerber Paula
Published: September 2016

This article examines the prospect of using infrastructure public‐private partnerships (PPPs) within Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar in light of the drastic drop in oil prices since mid‐2014. It argues that, while PPPs appear to be a strategic policy option for the three Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states to tackle growing fiscal deficits, these states are constrained by numerous governance‐related, administrative, and regulatory challenges that make PPPs problematic. Effective implementation of the inherently complex and contractual PPP policy requires addressing the existing institutional, economic, bureaucratic, and cultural constraints within these three states. This article concludes with recommendations to mitigate these challenges, that require serious political will and sufficient time to yield positive results, and to attract international investors and contractors to the Gulf region. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
LASSO vector autoregression structures for very short‐term wind power forecasting
Authors: Cavalcante Laura , Bessa Ricardo J. , Reis Marisa , Browell Jethro
Published: September 2016

The deployment of smart grids and renewable energy dispatch centers motivates the development of forecasting techniques that take advantage of near real‐time measurements collected from geographically distributed sensors. This paper describes a forecasting methodology that explores a set of different sparse structures for the vector autoregression (VAR) model using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) framework. The alternating direction method of multipliers is applied to fit the different LASSO‐VAR variants and create a scalable forecasting method supported by parallel computing and fast convergence, which can be used by system operators and renewable power plant operators. A test case with 66 wind power plants is used to show the improvement in forecasting skill from exploring distributed sparse structures. The proposed solution outperformed the conventional autoregressive and vector autoregressive models, as well as a sparse VAR model from the state of the art. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collective Review of the Status of Rapid Sequence Intubation Drugs of Choice in Trauma in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Settings (Prehospital, Emergency Department and Operating Room Setting)
Authors: Pillay Leressè , Hardcastle Timothy
Published: September 2016

Introduction

Establishing a definitive airway in order to ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation is an important aspect of resuscitation of the polytrauma patient.

Aim

To review the relevant literature that compares the different drugs used for rapid sequence intubation (RSI) of trauma patients, specifically reviewing: premedication, induction agents and neuromuscular blocking agents across the prehospital, emergency department and operating room setting, and to present the best practices based on the reviewed evidence.

Method

A literature review of rapid sequence intubation in the trauma population was carried out, specifically comparison of the drugs used (induction agent, neuromuscular blocking drugs and adjuncts).

Discussion

Studies involving the comparison of drugs used in RSI in, specifically, the trauma patient are sparse. The majority of studies have compared induction agents, etomidate, ketamine and propofol, as well as the neuromuscular blocking agents, succinylcholine and rocuronium.

Conclusion

There currently exists great variation in the practice of RSI; however, in trauma the RSI armamentarium is limited to agents that maintain hemodynamic stability, provide adequate intubating conditions in the shortest time period and do not have detrimental effects on cerebral perfusion pressure. Further, multicenter randomized controlled studies to confirm the benefits of the currently used agents in trauma are required.
Hydrotrope‐Induced Enhancement of Room Temperature Surface Activity for High Krafft Point Fluorinated Surfactants
Authors: Zhou Hong‐Tao , Xing Hang , Wu Bo‐Wan , Cao An‐Qing , Xiao Jin‐Xin
Published: September 2016

Potassium perfluorooctane sulfonate (KPFOS) and sodium perfluorooctane sulfonate (NaPFOS) exhibit poor surface activities in aqueous solution at room temperature because of their high Krafft points. In this work, we attempted to increase the solubility of KPFOS and NaPFOS and consequently improve their surface activities at room temperature with sodium p‐methylbenzene sulfonate (BS) and urea, which are typical hydrotropes in industrial applications. The effects of BS and urea on the surface tension of the aqueous solutions of KPFOS and NaPFOS were investigated at 25 °C. When the hydrotropes were added, the effectiveness of KPFOS and NaPFOS in surface tension reduction was greatly enhanced and KPFOS showed higher efficiency in surface tension reduction than NaPFOS. On the other hand, BS had much stronger ability than urea to reduce the surface tension of KPFOS and NaPFOS in water. In particular, with the assistance of BS the minimum surface tension of KPFOS approached 19 mN/m at 25 °C. It was worth noting that in the presence of BS, the surface tension of an apparently “saturated” solution (i.e., with coexisting surfactant solid) continuously decreased with increasing surfactant concentration. This behavior was ascribed to enrichment of branched PFOS isomers in aqueous phase with the assistance of BS, as evidenced by high‐resolution 19F NMR. Hydrotropes were able to recover the inherent character of KPFOS and NaPFOS as highly surface‐active fluorinated surfactants by increasing the solubility of branched isomers. This is an easy way to enhance the effectiveness in surface tension reduction at room temperature for fluorinated surfactants with high Krafft points.
Verfahren der GIS-Modellierung von Erreichbarkeiten für Schlaganfallversorgungszentren
Authors: Rauch Sebastian , Rauh Jürgen
Published: September 2016

The methodologically-oriented paper presents a method for modeling supply areas and accessibility of stroke units in Germany with the use of geographic information systems (GIS). Based on OpenStreetMap-data vector routing based catchment areas of stroke units are analysed and blended with vector-based demographic data at a spatially disaggregated level. A modeling of temporal accessibility with rescue vehicles resulted in isochrone-maps. The intersection of these maps with high-resolution demographic attributed data offers different analysis options. These are demonstrated in a case study from Lower Franconia, which is to outline the potential of the method for the spatial planning of stroke units. An application of the method to other medical institutions or the intersection with other thematic attribute data is possible.
Brief report: Factor structure of parenting behaviour in early adolescence
Authors: Spithoven Annette W.M. , Bijttebier Patricia , Van Leeuwen Karla , Goossens Luc
Published: September 2016

Researchers have traditionally relied on a tripartite model of parenting behaviour, consisting of the dimensions parental support, psychological control, and behavioural control. However, some scholars have argued to distinguish two dimensions of behavioural control, namely reactive control and proactive control. In line with earlier work, the current study found empirical evidence for these distinct behavioural control dimensions. In addition, the study showed that the four parenting dimensions of parental support, psychological control, reactive control, and proactive control were differentially related to peer‐related loneliness as well as parent‐related loneliness. Thereby, the current study does not only provide empirical evidence for the distinction between various parenting dimensions, but also shows the utility of this differentiation.
Case report: Deep neck abscess and mediastinitis with exposed carotid sheath treated with vacuum assisted closure
Authors: de Oca Durán Edgar Montes , Medina Marco Aurelio Rendón , Ayala Alondra Ruelas , Ortiz Jorge Arturo Rojas
Published: September 2016

Abstract

Background

We present a deep neck infection associated with mediastinitis treated with VAC therapy. In this case we encountered exposure of the carotid sheath, and protected with GELFOAM® (Pfizer®) sponge and ACTICOAT FLEX 3® (Smith&Nephew®), as an alternative to petroleum gauze.

Case summary

A 29-year-old female with deep neck abscess and mediastinitis involving carotid sheath. Treated with VAC therapy, right thoracotomy and left thoracoscopy with decortication. During the VAC changes carotid sheath was covered by a layer of Gelfoam® and Acticoat flex3®. A total of 3 changes were performed with direct wound closure with no evidence of vascular direct injury.

Conclusion

The present case demonstrates that alternative dressing choices such as GELFOAM® and ACTICOAT FLEX3® can potentially be used instead of the classic petroleum gauze for Negative Pressure Therapy for wounds with exposed vessels. More prospective randomized trials should be performed to ensure this proposal safety. We believe that the microporous layer decreases the direct negative pressure in the vessels. We did not find complications related to this treatment, but we cannot assume they are nonexistent.

Highlights
Soft Tissue Chondroma—Result of Surgery in a Local Hospital and Review of the Literature
Authors: John Lo Chi-Yin , Fu-Keung Ip , Tak-Chuen Wong , Priscilla Leung Oi-Yee , Wai-Leuk Tsang
Published: September 2016

Background/Purpose

This was a retrospective case series that aimed to study the clinical features and results of surgery for soft tissue chondroma, which is a benign extraskeletal cartilage tumour.

Methods

Ten patients with a histological diagnosis of soft tissue chondroma were recruited between 2001 and 2012. Tumours involved the hand and wrist (n = 4), foot (n = 3), popliteal fossa (n = 2), and deltoid (n = 1).

Results

The most common complaints were progressive enlargement of the size of the mass (50%) and pain (50%). Radiographs showed calcified soft tissue mass in 90% of cases. Marginal excision was performed. The mean follow-up duration was 27.6 months. There was one suspected recurrence case with a mass over the index finger. Surgical re-excision was performed and the second histological diagnosis was bizarre parosteal osteochondromatous proliferation. At final follow-up, nine out of ten cases were symptom free. One patient had residual finger joint stiffness and deformity.

Conclusion

The results of marginal excisions for soft tissue chondroma is satisfactory with low complication and recurrence rates.
Interpretation of shallow electrical resistivity images of faults: tectonophysical approach
Authors: Seminsky K.Zh. , Zaripov R.M. , Olenchenko V.V.
Published: September 2016

A new approach to interpretation of shallow electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data discussed for the case of the Olkhon area (western Baikal region) stems from tectonophysical ideas of faulting phases and deformation levels in rocks. The deformation levels, identified statistically from ERT responses, constrain fault boundaries and subboundaries associated with the formation of main and subsidiary fault planes. Information of this kind creates a basis for solving various fundamental and applied problems of tectonics, mineral exploration, and engineering geology.
Phase-induced polarization method based on processing noise signals of the natural electromagnetic field of the Earth
Authors: Shaidurov G.Ya. , Potylitsyn V.S. , Kudinov D.S.
Published: September 2016

The paper deals with the physical fundamentals of the phase geoelectric method of induced polarization (IP) based on the extraction of information from the natural electromagnetic field of the Earth (NEMFE) in the frequency range 0.1–20.0 Hz. Scientific and technical justification is provided for the differential measurement circuit parameters of the NEMFE and the algorithm of processing of the received signals with the calculation of the IP coefficient, assuming the identity of the field characteristics in two receiving lines. The method consists in recording random noise signals from two adjacent receiving electrical dipoles with simultaneous memorizing of the amplitudes and their automatic equalization. Then the difference between the signals is calculated, with subsequent energy normalization. The presented theoretical fundamentals for the calculation of the IP coefficient of the NEMFE and the processing algorithm were tested in laboratory experiments. Under the assumption of the complete identity of the medium beneath the receiving dipoles, the IP coefficient was 0.01–0.03, due to the error in the elemental base of the analog input path. The paper also presents the results of field experiments on the Samson iron deposit in the Republic of Khakassia. The experimental work confirmed the effect of IP on the NEMFE in the anomalous area and showed that the results are consistent with theoretical and laboratory predictions and the data obtained using a KEP-M pulse system. It is concluded that this method can be used to detect productive anomalies and has an advantage of eliminating artificial sources of excitation of geologic sections.
On large deviation rates for sums associated with Galton‒Watson processes
Authors: He Hui
Published: September 2016

Given a supercritical Galton‒Watson process {Zn} and a positive sequence {εn}, we study the limiting behaviors of ℙ(SZn/Zn≥εn) with sums Sn of independent and identically distributed random variables Xi and m=𝔼[Z1]. We assume that we are in the Schröder case with 𝔼Z1 log Z1<∞ and X1 is in the domain of attraction of an α-stable law with 0<α<2. As a by-product, when Z1 is subexponentially distributed, we further obtain the convergence rate of Zn+1/Zn to m as n→∞.
Do Missing Domain Scores Compromise the Validity of the Quality of Life Inventory?
Authors: Thomas M. D. , McGrath A. , Skilbeck C. E.
Published: September 2016

Background and aims: The Quality of Life Inventory (QOLI, Frisch, 1994) manual states that in most cases QOLI total scores are invalid when two or more of the 16-domain scores are missing. The current study aimed to investigate this guideline.

Methods: Two samples were utilised consisting of 259 community-dwelling adults and 144 adults surveyed 12 months following traumatic brain injury (TBI). First, the domains of the QOLI were regressed against Quality of Life Index (QLI) total scores. Second, a series of Receiver Operator Curve analyses systematically investigated the sensitivity of QOLI scores in detecting depression, as identified by the HADS and DASS.

Results: The final model predicting QLI scores comprised seven of the 16-QOLI domains, R2 = .57, and accounted for equivalent variance to the full 16-domain model, R2 = .59. With as few as seven domains, the sensitivity of QOLI scores in identifying participants with depression was very good and equivalent to the complete 16-QOLI domain total score (>76%). Similar results were observed when these analyses were replicated within the sample with TBI.

Conclusions: These findings showed the QOLI was more robust to missing domain scores than the current validity guidelines stated in the scale's manual suggest. Future research could determine the core domains of the QOLI in a range of samples including adolescents and specific clinical groups.
Energy Conservation and the Promotion ofLegionella pneumophilaGrowth: The Probable Role of Heat Exchangers in a Nosocomial Outbreak
Authors: Bédard Emilie , Lévesque Simon , Martin Philippe , Pinsonneault Linda , Paranjape Kiran , Lalancette Cindy , Dolcé Charles-Éric , Villion Manuela , Valiquette Louis , Faucher Sébastien P. , Prévost Michèle
Published: September 2016

OBJECTIVE

To determine the source of aLegionella pneumophilaserogroup 5 nosocomial outbreak and the role of the heat exchanger installed on the hot water system within the previous year.

SETTING

A 400-bed tertiary care university hospital in Sherbrooke, Canada.

METHODS

Hot water samples were collected and cultured forL. pneumophilafrom 25 taps (baths and sinks) within wing A and 9 taps in wing B. Biofilm (5) and 2 L water samples (3) were collected within the heat exchangers forL. pneumophilaculture and detection of protists. Sequence-based typing was performed on strain DNA extracts and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns were analyzed.

RESULTS

Following 2 cases of hospital-acquired legionellosis, the hot water system investigation revealed a large proportion ofL. pneumophilaserogroup 5 positive taps (22/25 in wing A and 5/9 in wing B). High positivity was also detected in the heat exchanger of wing A in water samples (3/3) and swabs from the heat exchanger (4/5). The outbreak genotyping investigation identified the hot water system as the source of infections. Genotyping results revealed that all isolated environmental strains harbored the same related pulsed-field gel electrophoresis pattern and sequence-based type.

CONCLUSIONS

Two cases of hospital-acquired legionellosis occurred in the year following the installation of a heat exchanger to preheat hospital hot water. No cases were reported previously, although the sameL. pneumophilastrain was isolated from the hot water system in 1995. The heat exchanger promotedL. pneumophilagrowth and may have contributed to confirmed clinical cases.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol.2016;1475–1480
Sensor Configuration Optimizing in Modal Identification by Siege ant Colony Algorithm
Authors: Feng S. , Jia J.-Q. , Zhang J.-C.
Published: September 2016

Proper monitor planning is a vital component of structural health monitoring (SHM) project. An extremely important part of the monitor planning is the placement of sensors, usually in the form of acceleration sensors. For the placement of three-dimensional acceleration sensors, the state of practice is to select the sensor configuration by previous experiences. However, this results in a waste of many sensors. A novel method called siege ant colony algorithm (SAC) is proposed in this paper. This method is built on the previous ant colony optimization (ACO) in the direction of improving efficiency and accuracy when applied to optimal sensor placement (OSP) problems in large-scale structure monitoring. This method is applied and compared with standard approaches using the Hanjiang transmission tower.
Experimental Study of Concrete Aging Effect on the Contact Force and Contact Time During the Impact Interaction of an Elastic Rod with a Viscoelastic Beam
Authors: Popov I. I. , Chang T.-P. , Rossikhin Yu. A. , Shitikova M. V.
Published: September 2016

In the present paper, the low-velocity impact of an elastic rod with a flat end upon a viscoelastic Timoshenko type beam has been considered. Viscoelastic properties of the beam out of the contact zone are described by the standard linear solid model with integer derivatives, while inside this zone they are governed by the fractional derivative standard linear solid model. The contact force for a concrete target has been defined experimentally at the concrete age of 7, 14, 28, 56, and 91 days. It has been found that an average maximum of the contact force increases with concrete age, whereas the contact duration decreases. Moreover, the most remarkable changes of both, contact force and contact time, occur at the concrete age earlier than 14 days, after that the rate of changes slows down. Experimental results have a good coincidence with theoretical expectations.
Precursor motion to iceberg calving at Jakobshavn Isbræ, Greenland, observed with terrestrial radar interferometry
Authors: XIE SURUI , DIXON TIMOTHY H. , VOYTENKO DENIS , HOLLAND DAVID M. , HOLLAND DENISE , ZHENG TIANTIAN
Published: September 2016

Time-varying elevations near the calving front of Jakobshavn Isbræ, Greenland were observed with a terrestrial radar interferometer (TRI) in June 2015. An ice block with surface dimensions of 1370 m × 290 m calved on 10 June. TRI-generated time series show that ice elevation near the calving front began to increase 65 h prior to the event, and can be fit with a simple block rotation model. We hypothesize that subsurface melting at the base of the floating terminus breaks the gravity-buoyancy equilibrium, leading to slow subsidence and rotation of the block, and its eventual failure.
Cisnerospira(Brachiopoda, Spiriferinida), an atypical Early Jurassic spire bearer from the Subbetic Zone (SE Spain) and its significance
Authors: Baeza-Carratalá José Francisco , Manceñido Miguel Oscar , García Joral Fernando
Published: September 2016

The order Spiriferinida represented a significant group whose extinction is linked to the early Toarcian mass extinction event. The genusCisnerospiraManceñido, 2004, conspicuous representative of this group in the Early Jurassic of the western Tethys, is analyzed from a systematic standpoint, grounded mainly on evidence from the Subbetic domain, and its initial diagnosis is revised accordingly. A definitive suprageneric position within the subfamily Paralaballinae is formally proposed in the light of new data herein provided. Both external and internal diagnostic features and the generic and intraspecific variability are described through the analysis of theCisnerospiraspecies recorded in the easternmost Subbetic area, i.e.,Cisnerospira adscendens(Deslongchamps, 1858), C. aff.adscendens, C. angulata(Oppel, 1861), andC.?sylvia(Gemmellaro,1882). In addition, their interrelation with other records from several Tethyan basins is addressed, and the generic spectrum has been extended to include several species with high morphological affinity. This characterization thus contributes to clarify certain ambiguities in the systematics of the spiriferinids, which entails a complex taxonomy mainly based on the external features, where the ribbing pattern was given foremost classificatory value due to the lack of more reliable generic diagnostic criteria. Furthemore, a morphofunctional analysis performed inCisnerospirareveals a presumable epibenthonic libero-sessile way of life, and two alternative adaptive strategies are discussed: resting on and/or sticking in substrates with different degree of consolidation, providing a significant hydrodynamic stability to the shell.
An annotated bibliography of Arabic and Berber in Libya
Authors: Benkato Adam , Pereira Christophe
Published: September 2016

The Libyan varieties of both Arabic and Berber are among the least researched in their respective fields. In order to facilitate the study of these varieties, we present an annotated bibliography of all relevant research that could be identified up until the middle of 2016. With this, we aim to identify both the gaps in current and the possibilities for future research. Studies are grouped into Arabic and Berber sections, and subgrouped according to region. For Arabic, dialects of Tripoli and western regions, Benghazi and eastern regions, Fezzan and southern regions, as well as Jewish dialects, are treated. For Berber, varieties of Zwara, the Nafusa mountains, Sokna and El-Foqaha, and Awjila, and Tuareg are treated. Short introductions highlighting the most important studies precede bibliographic references and brief comments are given when of interest.
Maintenance of ionic gradients and tissue hydration in the intertidal sea cucumberHolothuria griseaunder hypo- and hyper-salinity challenges
Authors: Castellano Giovanna C. , Santos Ivonete Aparecida , Freire Carolina A.
Published: September 2016

Echinoderms are exclusively marine, osmoconformer invertebrates. Their distribution patterns are strongly influenced by salinity. Nevertheless, several species of the phylum inhabit the challenging intertidal zone, characterized by steep and fast salinity fluctuations. This study evaluated the response of coelomic fluid ionic concentrations (sodium, chloride, magnesium and potassium) of the intertidal sea cucumberHolothuria griseato hypo- and hypersaline challenges. A stepwise protocol was performed for the whole animal exposure to both anisosmotic conditions: from 35 to 15 psu along 8 h, and from 35 to 45 psu along 6 h, to simulate intertidal conditions. Tissue water regulation by the longitudinal muscle, oesophagus and posterior intestine was also evaluated, upon hypo- and hyper-osmotic shocks of 20 and 50% of intensity with respect to the isosmotic control. Ionic gradients were observed between coelomic fluid and external water, mainly for potassium and magnesium, but also sodium, and in a greater extent under hyposaline conditions than under hypersaline exposure. Consistently,H. griseashows retracted tube feet in 15 psu, but a more relaxed appearance and exposed tube feet in 45 psu. In addition,H. griseashowed greater capacity for tissue water maintenance during hyper- than in hyposmotic conditions.Holothuria griseashows an avoidance behaviour in low salinity (thus sustaining ionic gradients), preventing its tissues from intense swelling. This strategy allows it to dwell in the intertidal region.
Shturman Albanov: a new Russian icebreaking tanker
Authors: Barr William
Published: September 2016

On 26 October 2015 the keel was laid for a remarkable new tanker at the Samsung Heavy Industries Shipyard, in Geoje, South Korea, the order having been placed by Sovcomflot, which operates the largest tanker fleet in Russia (Unicom Management Services (Cyprus) Ltd. 2015). The vessel was launched on 20 February 1916 and was named Shturman Albanov (Fig. 1). It is a shallow-draft icebreaking tanker of 42000 dwt (Unicom Management Services (Cyprus) Ltd. 2016) with a length of 249 m and the unusually large breadth for its tonnage, of 34 m, and a loaded draft of 9.5 m. Its ice-class is Arc7. Propelled by two 11 MW azipods (Fig. 2) (Sergey Frank, CEO of Sovcomflot, personal communication, July 2016) Shturman Albanov is capable of a speed of 14 knots. The azipods give it great manoeuverability and the capability of breaking ice up to 1.4 m thick when going ahead and 1.8 m thick when going astern. Registered in St. Petersburg and described as a shuttle tanker, it is designed specifically to haul oil from the Vorota Arktika (Gates of the Arctic) terminal near Mys Kamennyy, the terminal for Gazpromneft's Novoportovskoye field (Sergey Frank, CEO of Sovcmflot, personal communication, July 2016). The terminal is located on the east side of the Yamal Poluostrov, that is on the west shore of southern Obskaya Guba. This water-body is only about 10 m deep in places, which explains the need for a shallow-draft vessel, and for its unusually great breadth, in order to achieve maximum capacity. Another feature dictated by the shallow depths is that it is a bow-loading vessel. It will transport the oil year-round, west via Yuogorskiy Shar or Karskiye Vorota and across the Barents Sea to Murmansk where it will transfer its cargo to the storage tanker Umba. The delivery date for Shturman Albanov was 30 July (Staalesen 2016). In fact delivery and the naming ceremony took place on 20 July at Pusan, South Korea. The ship's captain is Vyacheslav Gafurov (Sergey Frank, CEO of Sovcomflot, personal communication, July 2016).
Emotional intelligence and non-social cognition in schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder
Authors: Frajo-Apor B. , Kemmler G. , Pardeller S. , Plass T. , Mühlbacher M. , Welte A.-S. , Fleischhacker W. W. , Hofer A.
Published: September 2016

Background

The different patterns of Emotional Intelligence (EI) deficits in schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder are are not yet well understood. This study compares EI levels among these groups and highlights the potential impact of non-social cognition on EI.

Method

Fifty-eight schizophrenia and 60 bipolar outpatients were investigated using the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) and the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia (BACS). Analyses of covariance were performed with adjustment for the BACS composite score.

Results

Compared to bipolar subjects, schizophrenia patients showed significantly lower levels in both EI and non-social cognition. After adjustment for the BACS composite score, the difference in EI was lost. The mediation analysis revealed that differences between schizophrenia and bipolar patients in strategic EI are almost fully attributable to the mediating effect of non-social cognition.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that in both schizophrenia and bipolar patients EI is strongly influenced by non-social cognitive functioning. This has to be taken into account when interpreting MSCEIT data in comparative studies in serious mental illness and emphasizes the importance of cognitive remediation.
Saturated Subgraphs of the Hypercube
Authors: JOHNSON J. ROBERT , PINTO TREVOR
Published: September 2016

We say a graph is (Qn,Qm)-saturatedif it is a maximalQm-free subgraph of then-dimensional hypercubeQn. A graph is said to be (Qn,Qm)-semi-saturatedif it is a subgraph ofQnand adding any edge forms a new copy ofQm. The minimum number of edges a (Qn,Qm)-saturated graph (respectively (Qn,Qm)-semi-saturated graph) can have is denoted by sat(Qn,Qm) (respectivelys-sat(Qn,Qm)). We prove that$$ \begin{linenomath} \lim_{n\to\infty}\ffrac{\sat(Q_n,Q_m)}{e(Q_n)}=0, \end{linenomath}$$for fixedm, disproving a conjecture of Santolupo that, whenm=2, this limit is 1/4. Further, we show by a different method that sat(Qn,Q2)=O(2n), and thats-sat(Qn,Qm)=O(2n), for fixedm. We also prove the lower bound$$ \begin{linenomath} \ssat(Q_n,Q_m)\geq \ffrac{m+1}{2}\cdot 2^n, \end{linenomath}$$thus determining sat(Qn,Q2) to within a constant factor, and discuss some further questions.
eHealth literacy and preferences for eHealth resources in parents of children with complex CHD
Authors: Kasparian Nadine A. , Lieu Nathan , Winlaw David S. , Cole Andrew , Kirk Edwin , Sholler Gary F.
Published: September 2016

Introduction

This study aimed to (a) examine eHealth literacy, beliefs, and behaviours in parents of children with complex CHD, and (b) identify parents’ preferences for the content, format, features, and functions of eHealth resources for CHD.

Materials and methods

Families (n=198) of children born between 2008 and 2011 and diagnosed with CHD requiring surgery were mailed a survey assessing a range of variables including eHealth literacy, beliefs, and behaviours as well as preferences for the format, functions, features, and content of eHealth resources for CHD.

Results

A total of 132 parents (83 mothers, 49 fathers) completed the survey (response rate: 50%). Mothers (96%) were more likely to access eHealth resources than fathers (83%, χ2=6.74, p=0.009). Despite high eHealth resource use, eHealth literacy was relatively low, with results demonstrating considerable and widespread gaps in awareness of, access to, and communication about eHealth resources. Over 50% of parents reported that decisions regarding their child’s healthcare were influenced, to some extent, by web-based resources. Barriers to doctor–patient communication about eHealth included limited consultation time and concern about doctors’ disapproval. Participants demonstrated a strong desire for “eHealth prescriptions” from their child’s healthcare team, and perceived a wide range of eHealth topics as highly important, including treatment-related complications as well as physical, cognitive, and emotional development in children with CHD.

Discussion

Results suggest a need for stronger, more proactive partnerships between clinicians, researchers, educators, technologists, and patients and families to bring about meaningful innovations in the development and implementation of eHealth interventions in paediatric cardiology.
Prehospital Emergency Medical Services Departure Interval: Does Patient Age Matter?
Authors: Schnegg Bruno , Pasquier Mathieu , Carron Pierre-Nicolas , Yersin Bertrand , Dami Fabrice
Published: September 2016

Introduction

The concept of response time with minimal interval is intimately related to the practice of emergency medicine. The factors influencing this time interval are poorly understood.

Problem

In a process of improvement of response time, the impact of the patient’s age on ambulance departure intervals was investigated.

Method

This was a 3-year observational study. Departure intervals of ambulances, according to age of patients, were analyzed and a multivariate analysis, according to time of day and suspected medical problem, was performed.

Results

A total of 44,113 missions were included, 2,417 (5.5%) in the pediatric group. Mean departure delay for the adult group was 152.9 seconds, whereas it was 149.3 seconds for the pediatric group (P=.018).

Conclusion

A statistically significant departure interval difference between missions for children and adults was found. The difference, however, probably was not significant from a clinical point of view (four seconds).

SchneggB,PasquierM,CarronPN,YersinB,DamiF.Prehospital Emergency Medical Services departure interval: does patient age matter?Prehosp Disaster Med.2016;31(6):608–613.
Preserving Agricultural Land with Farmland Assessment: New Jersey as a Case Study
Authors: Parks Peter J. , Quimio Wilma Rose H.
Published: September 2016

A conceptual model links agricultural profits, capital gains, interest rates, and property taxes to the sale of agricultural land by profit-maximizing owners. The model motivates an empirical analysis of New Jersey data from 1949 to 1990. Results suggest that nonagricultural considerations may overpower the economic incentives provided by such policies as farmland assessment. Consequently, alternative policies (e.g., purchase of development rights and land use zoning) may be needed to sustain agriculture in rapidly urbanizing areas.
Challenges and Issues in the Next Decade: A Proactive Role for Agricultural and Resource Economists
Authors: Armbruster Walter J.
Published: September 2016

Economic and environmental challenges in the global economy raise significant issues that require public policy and private sector attention over the next decade. Price volatility, invasive species, sustainable biofuels production, and climate change all affect our agricultural and resource base and its future. Agricultural and resource economists must provide analyses of public policy and private sector strategies based on innovative research that integrates insights across disciplinary boundaries. Proactive communication of the results to decision makers can make a difference in how these important societal issues are addressed and help to shape the future.
Payments under the Average Crop Revenue Program: Implications for Government Costs and Producer Preferences
Authors: Cooper Joseph
Published: September 2016

This paper develops a stochastic model for comparing payments to U.S. corn producers under the U.S. Senate's Average Crop Revenue Program (ACR) versus payments under the price-based marketing loan benefit and countercyclical payment programs. Using this model, the paper examines the sensitivity of the density function for payments to changes in expected price levels. We also assess the impact of the choice of yield aggregation used in the ACR payment rate on the mean and variance of farm returns. We find that ACR payments lower the producer's coefficient of variation of total revenue more than does the price-based support, although ACR may not raise mean revenue as much. While corn farmers in the heartland states might still prefer to receive the traditional forms of support when prices are low relative to statutory loan rates and target prices, this outcome is not necessarily the case for farmers in peripheral production regions.
Preferential Trading Arrangements in Western Hemisphere Countries
Authors: Krissoff Barry , Sharples Jerry
Published: September 2016

Many countries of the Western Hemisphere in recent years have shown interest in participating in preferential trading arrangements (PTA) in anticipation of expanding exports. Results in this paper show that export expansion depends upon the type of agreement that is formed and who else is participating. Trade of two agricultural commodities are examined; wheat, and fruit and vegetable juices. Five PTAs are examined, each including the United States and one or more Western Hemisphere countries.
Nonradial Technical Efficiency and Chemical Input Use in Agriculture
Authors: Fernandez-Cornejo Jorge
Published: September 2016

Radial and nonradial measures of technical efficiency are calculated empirically for Florida vegetable farms using DEA (data envelopment analysis) techniques. Use of the nonradial measures to calculate overuse of chemical inputs by inefficient farmers is demonstrated and the potential for reduced environmental loading of pesticides and fertilizers by improving efficiency is evaluated.
Farm-Level Evaluation of Alternative Policy Approaches to Reduce Nitrate Leaching from Midwest Agriculture
Authors: Swinton Scott M. , Clark David S.
Published: September 2016

Policies to reduce nitrate leaching are evaluated using a mixed integer linear programming model of a representative Michigan cash grain farm. At spring 1993 prices, elimination of the current deficiency payment program is found to be more efficient at reducing leaching than a nitrogen input tax, a tax credit on biologically fixed nitrogen, a rotation payment, or obligatory use of the Integrated Farm Management Program Option (IFMPO). However, elimination of the deficiency payment program would significantly reduce farm income. Modeling risk management and nitrate leaching dynamics are useful extensions of this research, as is estimating the benefits from averting nitrate leaching.
Determinants of Farmer-to-Consumer Direct Market Visits by Type of Facility: A Logit Analysis
Authors: Govindasamy Ramu , Nayga Rodolfo M.
Published: September 2016

This study identifies several socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of individuals who visited farmer-to-consumer direct markets in New Jersey. The analysis was performed for each type of direct marketing facility: pick-your-own farms, roadside stands, farmers’ markets, and direct farm markets. Logit analysis results indicate that various factors affect visitation to each type of facility. Factors examined include consumer's consumption and variety of fruits and vegetables, price expectation, purpose of buying, age, sex, education, race, income, urbanization, and presence of home garden.
Economic and Water Quality Impacts of Reducing Nitrogen and Pesticide Use in Agriculture
Authors: Randhir Timothy O. , Lee John G.
Published: September 2016

A multiyear regional risk programming model was used in evaluating the impacts of different environmental policies on cropping systems, input use, nonpoint source pollution, farm income, and risk. A direct expected utility maximizing problem (DEMP) objective with a Von Neuman Morgenstern utility function was used in deriving optimal cropping systems. A biophysical simulation model provided input for the optimization. Three types of policies—taxing, regulating the aggregate, and regulating the per acre level—were studied for two farm inputs—nitrogen and atrazine. It was observed that policies had varied and multiple cross-effects on pollutant loads, farm income, and risk. This information is crucial in developing successful policies toward improving water quality. If an appropriate input policy is chosen, both targeted and nontargeted pollutant loads can be managed. The three policies varied in their effects on pollutant loads and involved tradeoffs in water quality and economic attributes.