bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender differences in neural correlates of stress‐induced anxiety
Authors: Seo Dongju , Ahluwalia Aneesha , Potenza Marc N. , Sinha Rajita
Published: November 2016

Although gender differences have been identified as a crucial factor for understanding stress‐related anxiety and associated clinical disorders, the neural mechanisms underlying these differences remain unclear. To explore gender differences in the neural correlates of stress‐induced anxiety, the current study used functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine brain responses in 96 healthy men and women with commensurable levels of trait anxiety as they engaged in a personalized guided imagery paradigm to provoke stress and neutral‐relaxing experiences. During the task, a significant gender main effect emerged, with men displaying greater responses in the caudate, cingulate gyrus, midbrain, thalamus, and cerebellum. In contrast, women showed greater responses in the posterior insula, temporal gyrus, and occipital lobe. Additionally, a significant anxiety ratings × gender interaction from whole‐brain regression analyses was observed in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, left inferior parietal lobe, left temporal gyrus, occipital gyrus, and cerebellum (P < 0.05, whole‐brain family‐wise error corrected), with positive associations between activity in these regions and stress‐induced anxiety in women, but negative associations in men, indicating that men and women differentially use neural resources when experiencing stress‐induced anxiety. The findings suggest that in response to stress, there is a greater use of the medial prefrontal–parietal cortices in experiencing subjective anxiety in women, while decreased use of this circuit was associated with increased subjective anxiety states in men. The current study has implications for understanding gender‐specific differences in stress‐induced anxiety and vulnerability to stress‐related clinical disorders, and for developing more effective treatment strategies tailored to each gender. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sex differences in hippocampal area CA3 pyramidal cells
Authors: Scharfman Helen E. , MacLusky Neil J.
Published: November 2016

Numerous studies have demonstrated differences between males and females in hippocampal structure, function, and plasticity. There also are many studies about the different predisposition of a males and females for disorders where the hippocampus plays an important role. Many of these reports focus on area CA1, but other subfields are also very important, and unlikely to be the same as area CA1 based on what is known. Here we review basic studies of male and female structure, function, and plasticity of area CA3 pyramidal cells of adult rats. The data suggest that the CA3 pyramidal cells of males and females are distinct in structure, function, and plasticity. These sex differences cannot be simply explained by the effects of circulating gonadal hormones. This view agrees with previous studies showing that there are substantial sex differences in the brain that cannot be normalized by removing the gonads and depleting peripheral gonadal hormones. Implications of these comparisons for understanding sex differences in hippocampal function and dysfunction are discussed. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new definition of sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis undergoing liver transplantation
Authors: Golse Nicolas , Bucur Petru Octav , Ciacio Oriana , Pittau Gabriella , Sa Cunha Antonio , Adam René , Castaing Denis , Antonini Teresa , Coilly Audrey , Samuel Didier , Cherqui Daniel , Vibert Eric
Published: November 2016

Although sarcopenia is a common complication of cirrhosis, its diagnosis remains nonconsensual: computed tomography (CT) scan determinations vary and no cutoff values have been established in cirrhotic populations undergoing liver transplantation (LT). Our aim was to compare the accuracy of the most widely used measurement techniques and to establish useful cutoffs in the setting of LT. From the 440 patients transplanted between January 2008 and May 2011 in our tertiary center, we selected 256 patients with cirrhosis for whom a recent CT scan was available during the 4 months prior to LT. We measured different muscle indexes: psoas muscle area (PMA), PMA normalized by height or body surface area (BSA), and the third lumbar vertebra skeletal muscle index (L3SMI). Receiver operating characteristic curves were evaluated and prognostic factors for post‐LT 1‐year survival were then analyzed. PMA offered better accuracy (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.753) than L3SMI (AUC = 0.707) and PMA/BSA (AUC = 0.732), and the same accuracy as PMA/squared height. So, for its accuracy and simplicity of use, the PMA index was used for the remainder of the analysis and to define sarcopenia. In men, the better cutoff value for PMA was 1561 mm2 (Se = 94%, Sp = 57%), whereas in women, it was 1464 mm2 (Se = 52%, Sp = 91%). A PMA lower than these values defined sarcopenia in patients with cirrhosis awaiting LT. One‐ and 5‐year overall survival rates were significantly poorer in the sarcopenic group (n = 57) than in the nonsarcopenic group (n = 199), at 59% versus 94% and 54% versus 80%, respectively (P < 0.001). In conclusion, pre‐LT PMA is a simple tool to assess sarcopenia. We established sex‐specific cutoff values (1561 mm2 in men, 1464 mm2 in women) in a cirrhotic population and showed that 1‐year survival was significantly poorer in sarcopenic patients. Liver Transplantation 23 143–154 2017 AASLD
Cell Microencapsulation by Droplet Microfluidic Templating
Authors: Rossow Torsten , Lienemann Philipp S. , Mooney David J.
Published: November 2016

Microgels are hydrogel particles with micro‐scale dimensions in the range of 10–1000 µm. They have gained particular importance for cell microencapsulation, because they allow for highly specific creation of a myriad of discrete and miniaturized mimics of the three‐dimensional natural extracellular matrix of tissues. This trend article highlights and critically reviews current droplet‐based microfluidic approaches for the formation of such cell‐laden microgels. It addresses the technical issues of particle formation, the most common polymers used for microgel preparation, and the different types of polymer crosslinking. Furthermore, remaining technical challenges in the field are discussed and perspectives for further development and potential future applications are provided.

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Needleless Electrohydrodynamic Cojetting of Bicompartmental Particles and Fibers from an Extended Fluid Interface
Authors: Jordahl Jacob H. , Ramcharan Stacy , Gregory Jason V. , Lahann Joerg
Published: November 2016

Electrohydrodynamic cojetting can result in fibers (electrospinning) and particles (electrospraying) with complex, bicompartmental architectures. An important consideration for application of bicompartmental particles and fibers is the limited throughput derived from the use of parallel capillaries, which require laminar flow to form a multifluidic interface. Here, a novel synthesis approach that takes advantage of an extended bicompartmental fluid interface formed at the sharp edge of a 2D plate is reported. Upon application of an electrical potential to the plate, several electrified fluid jets form spontaneously. Depending on the processing conditions, either bicompartmental particles or fibers with well‐defined architectures are prepared. Importantly, this needleless process yields production rates that are more than 30 times higher than those of conventional needle‐based techniques. Fiber properties, such as morphology or size, are independent of the flow rate, indicating that this process is physically self‐regulating by adjusting the number of jets ejecting from the extended fluid interface. The needleless preparation of bicompartmental particles and fibers is an important technological breakthrough that can enable further advances ranging from drug delivery and tissue engineering to industrial applications.

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The new face of isotopic NMR at natural abundance
Authors: Jézéquel Tangi , Joubert Valentin , Giraudeau Patrick , Remaud Gérald S. , Akoka Serge
Published: November 2016

The most widely used method for isotope analysis at natural abundance is isotope ratio monitoring by Mass Spectrometry (irm‐MS) which provides bulk isotopic composition in 2H, 13C, 15N, 18O or 34S. However, in the 1980s, the direct access to Site‐specific Natural Isotope Fractionation by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (SNIF‐NMRTM) was immediately recognized as a powerful technique to authenticate the origin of natural or synthetic products. The initial – and still most popular – application consisted in detecting the chaptalization of wines by irm‐2H NMR. The approach has been extended to a wide range of methodologies over the last decade, paving the way to a wide range of applications, not only in the field of authentication but also to study metabolism. In particular, the emerging irm‐13C NMR approach delivers direct access to position‐specific 13C isotope content at natural abundance. After highlighting the application scope of irm‐NMR (2H and 13C), this article describes the major improvements which made possible to reach the required accuracy of 1‰ (0.1%) in irm‐13C NMR. The last part of the manuscript summarizes the different steps to perform isotope analysis as a function of the sample properties (concentration, peak overlap) and the kind of targeted isotopic information (authentication, affiliation). Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Blending issues and stakeholders: in pursuit of the elusive synergy
Authors: Mahon John F. , Heugens Pursey P.M.A.R. , McGowan Richard A.
Published: November 2016

Two separate frameworks have existed for the analysis of social predicaments in which businesses play a role: issues management and stakeholder management. In this paper, we argue that the chasm dividing these two literatures is artificial, and potentially obstructive to the advancement of our knowledge of the position of business in contemporary societies. The position we take in the present paper is that all social predicaments have an issues side as well as a stakeholder side and that a dual focus on both issues and stakeholders is therefore essential to understanding the evolution of these predicaments and crucial to managerial dealings with these issues. We present an integrative co‐evolutionary framework, explaining the dynamics between issues and stakeholders in all consecutive stages of a predicament's evolution. The framework proposes a new way of thinking about issues and stakeholders, as such facilitates a deeper understanding of how the social environment of business is constituted, and offers new insights for the practical management of issues and stakeholders.
Bronchiolitis Score of Sant Joan de Déu: BROSJOD Score, validation and usefulness
Authors: Balaguer Mònica , Alejandre Carme , Vila David , Esteban Elisabeth , Carrasco Josep L. , Cambra Francisco José , Jordan Iolanda
Published: November 2016

Objective

To validate the bronchiolitis score of Sant Joan de Déu (BROSJOD) and to examine the previously defined scoring cutoff. Patients and Methods: Prospective, observational study. BROSJOD scoring was done by two independent physicians (at admission, 24 and 48 hr). Internal consistency of the score was assessed using Cronbach's α. To determine inter‐rater reliability, the concordance correlation coefficient estimated as an intraclass correlation coefficient (CCC) and limits of agreement estimated as the 90% total deviation index (TDI) were estimated. An expert opinion was used to classify patients according to clinical severity. A validity analysis was conducted comparing the 3‐level classification score to that expert opinion. Volume under the surface (VUS), predictive values, and probability of correct classification (PCC) were measured to assess discriminant validity. Results: About 112 patients were recruited, 62 of them (55.4%) males. Median age: 52.5 days (IQR: 32.75–115.25). The admission Cronbach's α was 0.77 (CI95%: 0.71; 0.82) and at 24 hr it was 0.65 (CI95%: 0.48; 0.7). The inter‐rater reliability analysis was: CCC at admission 0.96 (95%CI 0.94–0.97), at 24 h 0.77 (95%CI 0.65–0.86), and at 48 hr 0.94 (95%CI 0.94–0.97); TDI 90%: 1.6, 2.9, and 1.57, respectively. The discriminant validity at admission: VUS of 0.8 (95%CI 0.70–0.90), at 24 h 0.92 (95%CI 0.85–0.99), and at 48 hr 0.93 (95%CI 0.87–0.99). The predictive values and PCC values were within 38–100% depending on the level of clinical severity. Conclusion: There is a high inter‐rater reliability, showing the BROSJOD score to be reliable and valid, even when different observers apply it. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:533–539. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Uniform multicommodity flows in the hypercube with random edge‐capacities
Authors: McDiarmid Colin , Scott Alex , Withers Paul
Published: November 2016

We give two results for multicommodity flows in the d‐dimensional hypercube with independent random edge‐capacities distributed like a random variable C where . Firstly, with high probability as , the network can support simultaneous multicommodity flows of volume close to between all antipodal vertex pairs. Secondly, with high probability, the network can support simultaneous multicommodity flows of volume close to between all vertex pairs. Both results are best possible. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 50, 437–463, 2017
Online Ramsey games for more than two colors
Authors: Noever Andreas
Published: November 2016

Consider the following one‐player game played on an initially empty graph with n vertices. At each stage a randomly selected new edge is added and the player must immediately color the edge with one of r available colors. Her objective is to color as many edges as possible without creating a monochromatic copy of a fixed graph F. We use container and sparse regularity techniques to prove a tight upper bound on the typical duration of this game with an arbitrary, but fixed, number of colors for a family of 2‐balanced graphs. The bound confirms a conjecture of Marciniszyn, Spöhel and Steger and yields the first tight result for online graph avoidance games with more than two colors. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 50, 464–492, 2017
Impurity‐Induced Electrocatalysis: Unpredicted Enhancement Effect of Ammonia Impurity Towards Formic Acid Electro‐Oxidation
Authors: El‐Nagar Gumaa A. , Roth Christina
Published: November 2016

This study addresses a noteworthy unexpected enhancement of the direct oxidation pathway of formic acid (FA) to CO2 at Pt nanoparticle‐modified GC (nano‐Pt/GC) electrode in the presence of ppm amounts of ammonia associated with suppressing the poisoning dehydration pathway of FA to CO, for the first time. This is reflected by a significant increase of the current intensity of the direct oxidation peak (Ipd) simultaneously with a significant decrease of the indirect oxidation peak current (Ipind) in the presence of a minute amount of ammonia compared to that observed in its absence. For instance, the ratio Ipd/Ipind increases from 0.2 in the absence of ammonia to 9.5 in the presence of 30 ppm of ammonia (i. e., 45 times higher) indicating that the direct pathway became the dominant oxidation pathway in the presence of ammonia. Ammonia is believed to favor the direct formic acid oxidation (FAO) to CO2 as it impedes the formation of CO by disturbing the geometry of Pt sites, which is necessary for CO adsorption as evident from CO stripping experiment (i. e., prevents non‐Faradic dissociation of FA). Additionally, it might induce the CH‐down adsorption orientation of FA thus favoring FAO directly to CO2 as evident from DFT calculations.
Chlorinated 2‐hydroxynaphthalenoxazolines: Synthesis, Reaction Mechanism and Fluorescence Properties
Authors: Barbeiro Cristiane S. , Vasconcelos Stanley N. S. , Zukerman‐Schpector Júlio , Caracelli Ignez , Pimenta Daniel C. , Rodrigues Ana Clara B. , Fernandes André S. , Correra Thiago C. , Bastos Erick L. , Stefani Hélio A.
Published: November 2016

A chlorinated 2‐HNO (2‐hydroxynaphthalenoxazoline) was synthesized by an ultrasound‐assisted coupling reaction between 1‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthoic acid and L‐threonine followed by simultaneous halogenation and cyclization with inversion of configuration using excess SOCl2. Further functionalization of 2‐HNO led to a small library of slightly fluorescent amides or esters in 55–81 % yields. Quantum chemical calculations combined with high‐resolution mass spectrometry analysis were used to rationalize the mechanism of reaction, and the formation of SCl3+ as an electrophile is proposed.
Generation of Integration‐Free Induced Neurons Using Graphene Oxide‐Polyethylenimine
Authors: Baek Soonbong , Oh Jaesur , Song Juhyun , Choi Hwan , Yoo Junsang , Park Gui‐Yeon , Han Jin , Chang Yujung , Park Hanseul , Kim Hongwon , Cho Ssang‐Goo , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Jongpil
Published: November 2016

Direct conversion of somatic cells into induced neurons (iNs) without inducing pluripotency has great therapeutic potential for treating central nervous system diseases. Reprogramming of somatic cells to iNs requires the introduction of several factors that drive cell‐fate conversion, and viruses are commonly used to deliver these factors into somatic cells. However, novel gene‐delivery systems that do not integrate transgenes into the genome are required to generate iNs for safe human clinical applications. In this study, it is investigated whether graphene oxide‐polyethylenimine (GO‐PEI) complexes are an efficient and safe system for messenger RNA delivery for direct reprogramming of iNs. The GO‐PEI complexes show low cytotoxicity, high delivery efficiency, and directly converted fibroblasts into iNs without integrating factors into the genome. Moreover, in vivo transduction of reprogramming factors into the brain with GO‐PEI complexes facilitates the production of iNs that alleviated Parkinson's disease symptoms in a mouse model. Thus, the GO‐PEI delivery system may be used to safely obtain iNs and could be used to develop direct cell reprogramming‐based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Ferritin Protein Regulates the Degradation of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Volatron Jeanne , Carn Florent , Kolosnjaj‐Tabi Jelena , Javed Yasir , Vuong Quoc Lam , Gossuin Yves , Ménager Christine , Luciani Nathalie , Charron Gaëlle , Hémadi Miryana , Alloyeau Damien , Gazeau Florence
Published: November 2016

Proteins implicated in iron homeostasis are assumed to be also involved in the cellular processing of iron oxide nanoparticles. In this work, the role of an endogenous iron storage protein—namely the ferritin—is examined in the remediation and biodegradation of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. Previous in vivo studies suggest the intracellular transfer of the iron ions released during the degradation of nanoparticles to endogenous protein cages within lysosomal compartments. Here, the capacity of ferritin cages to accommodate and store the degradation products of nanoparticles is investigated in vitro in the physiological acidic environment of the lysosomes. Moreover, it is questioned whether ferritin proteins can play an active role in the degradation of the nanoparticles. The magnetic, colloidal, and structural follow‐up of iron oxide nanoparticles and proteins in lysosome‐like medium confirms the efficient remediation of potentially harmful iron ions generated by nanoparticles within ferritins. The presence of ferritins, however, delays the degradation of particles due to a complex colloidal behavior of the mixture in acidic medium. This study exemplifies the important implications of intracellular proteins in processes of degradation and metabolization of iron oxide nanoparticles.
The Formation of Calcified Nanospherites during Micropetrosis Represents a Unique Mineralization Mechanism in Aged Human Bone
Authors: Milovanovic Petar , Zimmermann Elizabeth A. , vom Scheidt Annika , Hoffmann Björn , Sarau George , Yorgan Timur , Schweizer Michaela , Amling Michael , Christiansen Silke , Busse Björn
Published: November 2016

Osteocytes—the central regulators of bone remodeling—are enclosed in a network of microcavities (lacunae) and nanocanals (canaliculi) pervading the mineralized bone. In a hitherto obscure process related to aging and disease, local plugs in the lacuno‐canalicular network disrupt cellular communication and impede bone homeostasis. By utilizing a suite of high‐resolution imaging and physics‐based techniques, it is shown here that the local plugs develop by accumulation and fusion of calcified nanospherites in lacunae and canaliculi (micropetrosis). Two distinctive nanospherites phenotypes are found to originate from different osteocytic elements. A substantial deviation in the spherites' composition in comparison to mineralized bone further suggests a mineralization process unlike regular bone mineralization. Clearly, mineralization of osteocyte lacunae qualifies as a strong marker for degrading bone material quality in skeletal aging. The understanding of micropetrosis may guide future therapeutics toward preserving osteocyte viability to maintain mechanical competence and fracture resistance of bone in elderly individuals.
Regulation of Injury-Induced Ovarian Regeneration by Activation of Oogonial Stem Cells
Authors: Erler Piril , Sweeney Alexandra , Monaghan James R.
Published: November 2016

Some animals have the ability to generate large numbers of oocytes throughout life. This raises the question whether persistent adult germline stem cell populations drive continuous oogenesis and whether they are capable of mounting a regenerative response after injury. Here we demonstrate the presence of adult oogonial stem cells (OSCs) in the adult axolotl salamander ovary and show that ovarian injury induces OSC activation and functional regeneration of the ovaries to reproductive capability. Cells that have morphological similarities to germ cells were identified in the developing and adult ovaries via histological analysis. Genes involved in germ cell maintenance including Vasa, Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, Bmp15, Piwil1, Piwil2, Dazl, and Lhx8 were expressed in the presumptive OSCs. Colocalization of Vasa protein with H3 mitotic marker showed that both oogonial and spermatogonial adult stem cells were mitotically active. Providing evidence of stemness and viability of adult OSCs, enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) adult OSCs grafted into white juvenile host gonads gave rise to EGFP OSCs, and oocytes. Last, the axolotl ovaries completely regenerated after partial ovariectomy injury. During regeneration, OSC activation resulted in rapid differentiation into new oocytes, which was demonstrated by Vasa+/BrdU+ coexpression. Furthermore, follicle cell proliferation promoted follicle maturation during ovarian regeneration. Overall, these results show that adult oogenesis occurs via proliferation of endogenous OSCs in a tetrapod and mediates ovarian regeneration. This study lays the foundations to elucidate mechanisms of ovarian regeneration that will assist regenerative medicine in treating premature ovarian failure and reduced fertility.
Examining the Paths from Export Strategic Orientations to Export Performance: The Mediating Role of Export Resource Transformation Capability
Authors: Boso Nathaniel , Annan Jonathan , Adeleye Ifedapo , Iheanachor Nkemdilim , Narteh Bedman
Published: November 2016

Export strategic orientation research suggests that export entrepreneurial orientation (EO) and market orientation (MO) directly affect export performance. Based on the dynamic capability theory, this study hypothesizes that export resource transformation capability is an intervening factor that helps explain how EO and MO, individually and jointly, impact export performance. Using archival and survey data from small and medium‐sized exporters in the United Kingdom and Nigeria, the study finds that export resource transformation capability partially mediates the individual effects of EO and MO on export performance in both samples. Results further show that export resource transformation capability does not mediate the joint effect of EO and MO on export performance. The findings help provide a more complete understanding of how export strategic orientations might be related to export performance. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pentagonal Bismuth Antiprisms with Endohedral Palladium or Platinum Atoms by Low‐Temperature Syntheses
Authors: Groh Matthias F. , Wolff Alexander , Wahl Bernhard , Rasche Bertold , Gebauer Paul , Ruck Michael
Published: November 2016

We present the syntheses, crystal structures, and properties of five metal‐rich salts containing the Bi104+ pentagonal antiprism with an endohedral palladium or, for the first time, platinum atom. Tetragonal [Pt@Bi10](AlBr4)4 [P42/n at 296(1) K; P4 at 150(2) K] was obtained by reacting platinum, bismuth, and bismuth tribromide in [BMIm]Br·4.1AlBr3 at 140 °C (BMIm = 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium). Monoclinic [Pt@Bi10](AlBr4)2(Al2Br7)2 [P21/n] occurs as by‐product. The two corresponding palladium compounds result from the dissolution of Bi16PdCl22 in [BMIm]Br·4.1AlBr3. [Pd@Bi10](AlBr4)4 [P42/n] adopts a disordered structure homeotypic to its platinum analog. [Pd@Bi10](AlBr4)2(Al2Br7)2 [P21/n] is isostructural to [Pt@Bi10](AlBr4)2(Al2Br7)2. In all structures, the [M@Bi10]4+ cations are well separated by the bromido‐aluminate anions with inter‐cluster Bi···Bi distances longer than 520 pm. This is not the case in [Pd@Bi10][Bi2Sn6Cl22], which crystallized from a tin‐containing melt of the metals and BiCl3. In its monoclinic structure [P21/c], the cluster cations are arranged in chains along [001] with an inter‐cluster distance of only 357 pm. Despite further structural evidence, DFT‐based quantum chemical analysis gave no hint on inter‐cluster bonding. According to the calculated band structure as well as resistivity and magnetic susceptibility measurements, the black compound is a diamagnetic semiconductor.
Impact of Safe Distance on Long‐Term Outcome After Surgical Therapy of Alveolar Echinococcosis
Authors: Hillenbrand Andreas , Gruener Beate , Kratzer Wolfgang , Kern Peter , Graeter Tilmann , Barth Thomas F. , Buttenschoen Klaus , Henne‐Bruns Doris
Published: November 2016

Introduction

In humans, alveolar echinococcosis (AE) is a serious helminthic disease. Additionally to a long‐term medical treatment, in all suitable cases a complete surgical resection with a 20‐mm safe distance (minimal distance of larval tissue to resection margin) is recommended. We analyzed the influence of the safe distance and the effect of the postoperative anthelmintic prophylaxis on the long‐term outcome of patients who underwent surgery with curative intent.

Objective

Ninety‐two operated patients were evaluated regarding the safe distance, the duration of medical therapy with benzimidazole derivates, and the further course of AE.

Results

Median follow‐up after surgical procedure was 8.3 years. Twelve patients had a safe distance of 20 mm or more, 16 patients between 10 and 19 mm, 21 patients between 1 and 10 mm, and 10 patients 1 mm. In a further 33 patients, the affected liver was resected without any safe distance. Recurrence of AE was seen in 15 patients between 4 months and 24 years after initial operation. Safe distances of patients with recurrent disease were: 13 × no safe distance, one patient with 1‐mm and one patient with 13‐mm safe distance. In all patients except one with recurrent AE, postoperative therapy with benzimidazole derivates was stopped.

Conclusion

A safe distance of at least 1 mm in combination with medical anthelmintic treatment continuing for two years might offer a good chance of being disease‐free long term, but the exact period of medical treatment needed is not defined. The therapy regime should be determined through an interdisciplinary approach in specialized centers.
Methylophilaceae and Hyphomicrobium as target taxonomic groups in monitoring the function of methanol-fed denitrification biofilters in municipal wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Rissanen Antti J , Ojala Anne , Fred Tommi , Toivonen Jyrki , Tiirola Marja
Published: November 2016

Molecular monitoring of bacterial communities can explain and predict the stability of bioprocesses in varying physicochemical conditions. To study methanol-fed denitrification biofilters of municipal wastewater treatment plants, bacterial communities of two full-scale biofilters were compared through fingerprinting and sequencing of the 16S rRNA genes. Additionally, 16S rRNA gene fingerprinting was used for 10-week temporal monitoring of the bacterial community in one of the biofilters. Combining the data with previous study results, the family Methylophilaceae and genus Hyphomicrobium were determined as suitable target groups for monitoring. An increase in the relative abundance of Hyphomicrobium-related biomarkers occurred simultaneously with increases in water flow, NOx  − load, and methanol addition, as well as a higher denitrification rate, although the dominating biomarkers linked to Methylophilaceae showed an opposite pattern. The results indicate that during increased loading, stability of the bioprocess is maintained by selection of more efficient denitrifier populations, and this progress can be analyzed using simple molecular fingerprinting.
Investigation of the physicochemical and biological properties of proline‐based surfactants in single and mixed surfactant systems
Authors: Joondan Nausheen , Caumul Prakashanand , Jhaumeer‐Laulloo Sabina
Published: November 2016

A series of surfactants derived from l‐Proline, the free amine esters, the ester hydrochlorides and the quaternary ammonium compounds with varying chain lengths (C8–C14) were synthesised. The physicochemical and biological properties were determined in both single and sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) mixed systems with a view of enhancing the properties of the individual surfactants as potential ingredients in detergent formulations. The mode of action of the proline surfactants were investigated by their ability to form mixed micelles with the phospholipid 1,2‐dimyristoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphatidylcholine (DMPC). The presence of a quaternary ammonium moiety and an increase in alkyl chain length were found to enhance the antibacterial activity of the proline QUAT derivatives. The SDS‐C14 QUAT mixed system displayed good antibacterial activity with optimum activity at mole fractions αQUAT: 0.4 and 0.6. The antibacterial activity of the mixed system was found to be governed by the monomers rather than the micelles. The SDS‐C14 QUAT mixed system also showed moderate irritancy which makes them potential candidates as detergents.
Complementing Traditional Diplomacy: Regional and Local Authorities Going International
Authors: Terruso Filippo
Published: November 2016

Regional and local authorities already promote their own policies and actions in the international arena for humanitarian, political, commercial, cultural and institutional reasons. From cross-border to decentralised cooperation, under the concept of City diplomacy, local authorities often move independently and actively, both in the international arena and in the EU's decision-making processes. They act during conflicts, providing peace-building and dialogue opportunities, and take action in post-conflict regions or regions in need. This form of diplomacy complements traditional diplomacy and is mostly activated when the latter is frozen or required to remain low profile for contingent, political reasons. These new actors, with strong devolved powers at home and strong political leadership, deserve more attention from international players such as the European Commission and some of the United Nations’ agencies. The current scheme of international cooperation is overly rigid. There is a need for more flexibility so that support—including financial support—can be better targeted to meet specific needs. This could lead to regional and local actors becoming direct recipients of international financial support for planning and running decentralised or bottom-up forms of cooperation, partnership and political dialogue.
Role of Groundwater Protection Planning in Groundwater Governance: A Case Study from North India
Authors: Singhal D. C. , Sharma V. K. , Tungaria Manish
Published: November 2016

In the present case study, impact of urbanization and industrial development on the shallow groundwater regime of Saharanpur town of Uttar Pradesh in India is examined with the aim of planning groundwater protection for better governance. The hazardous physicochemical and bacteriological parameters and heavy metals detected in the shallow aquifer include harmful pathogens like fecal coliforms, heavy metals like cadmium, chromium, nitrates and sulphates. An assessment of ground water vulnerability using the well known DRASTIC method has confirmed that the shallow groundwater in some central and southern localities of Saharanpur town fall in the medium risk zones. Further, using field data of 32 electrical resistivity soundings, the protective capacity of the unconfined aquifer is assessed in terms of a ‘total longitudinal conductance’ of the semi-pervious to impervious sediments overlying the unconfined aquifer. However, some areas aligned along a northwest-southeast and in the western parts of the town seem to have relatively higher protective capacity against infiltrating waste pollutants. A ground water protection planning map prepared by combining the DRASTIC map and the ‘potentially hazardous pollutants’ map has brought out the need to install eleven new groundwater quality monitoring wells in the town at locations near the line sources and point sources of pollution. This approach can be readily employed by the decision makers in framing sound guidelines for groundwater protection and governance.
Assessment of Groundwater Potential Zone Using Remote Sensing, GIS and Multi Criteria Decision Analysis Techniques
Authors: Jhariya D. C. , Kumar Tarun , Gobinath M. , Diwan Prabhat , Kishore Nawal
Published: November 2016

The sustainable development and management of groundwater resource needs quantitative assessment, based on scientific principle and recent techniques. In the present study, groundwater potential zone is being determined using remote sensing, Geographical Information System (GIS) and Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) techniques using various thematic layers viz. geomorphology, geology, drainage density, slope, rainfall, soil texture, groundwater depth, soil depth, lineament and land use/land cover. The Analytic Hierarchy Approach (AHP) is used to determine the weights of various themes for identifying the groundwater potential zone based on weights assignment and normalization with respect to the relative contribution of the different themes to groundwater occurrence. Finally, obtained groundwater potential zones were classified into five categories, viz. low, medium, medium-high, high and very high potential zone. The result depicts the groundwater potential zone in the study area and found to be helpful in better development and management planning of groundwater resource.
A Comparative Performance of Least-Square Method and Very Fast Simulated Annealing Global Optimization Method for Interpretation of Self-Potential Anomaly over 2-D Inclined Sheet Type Structure
Authors: Biswas Arkoprovo
Published: November 2016

Inversion of self-potential anomaly for 2-D inclined sheets of infinite horizontal extent has been studied. Least-square inversion and very fast simulated annealing global optimization has been used to model the five parameters of self potential anomaly. The method of least square and very fast simulated annealing global optimization method is compared and analyzed. Very fast simulated annealing can model the noisy and field data of self potential anomaly very precisely than linear inversion technique. However, time taken by very fast simulated annealing inversion is larger than linearized inversion. The comparative analysis has been done on synthetic data (noise free and noisy) and two field data from Bavarian woods anomaly, Germany and Surda anomaly, India to show the efficacy of both the methods. The estimated parameters were compared with those from previous studies using various global optimization algorithms, mainly neural network, genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization on the same field data sets. It can be concluded that the global optimization algorithms considered in this study were able to yield compatible solutions with those from least-square methods. The present global optimization method is in good agreement with the other global optimization methods in terms of results and computation time.
Assessment of Textural Variational Pattern and Electrical Conduction of Economic and Accessible Quaternary Hydrolithofacies via Geoelectric and Laboratory Methods in SE Nigeria: A Case Study of Select Locations in Akwa Ibom State
Authors: George Nyakno J. , Akpan Anthony E. , Ekanem Aniekan M.
Published: November 2016

Textural variational pattern of economic and accessible Quaternary aquifer repositories and its conductivity in the south-eastern Nigeria have been assessed through the integration of vertical electrical sounding and laboratory measurements. The results have shown the lithological attributes, pore-water and amount of residual clay minerals in the assumed clean sand; mechanism of charge fixation at the fluid - surface interface; intricate geometry of pores and pore channels; formation’s ability to transmit pore-water and cation exchange capacity.The connections of electrical and hydraulic properties and their distributions have been established. The average interface conductivity contributed by residual clay minerals in assumed clean sands of the aquifer repositories in the study area have been estimated as 30μS/m. Intrinsic average porosity and formation factor have been respectively deduced as 12% and 14.75. Comparing the simulated aquifer formation factor obtained from the observed porosity data with the observed aquifer formation factor, indicates the that study area has 0.5 ≤ a ≤ 0.8 pore geometry factor and 1.5 ≤ m ≤ 2.0 cementation factor as the best fitting values. The interrelations between aquifer parameters have been established through different plots and the aquifer have been empirically proved to be associated with residual clay minerals as the interface conductivity Cq is not equal to zero. The wide ranges of parameters estimated are an indication of variations in grain size. The estimated intrinsic average porosity, formation factor and the average BQv are viable in characterizing the aquifer flow dynamics and contaminant modelling in the associated aquifer sands For low pore geometry factors a (0.2) and low cementation factor m (0.5) the formation factor remains fairly constant. However, marked variability is noticed at higher a (1.0) and m (2.5). Despite the observed variability in formation factors at the indicated porosities, the spatial or geometrical spread of the formation factor remains unchanged in the aquifer units. The Tables for geoelectric and petrophysical parameters and the associated mathematical models generated in this study can be used for groundwater contaminant modelling and simulation of pore space parameters with reasonable accuracy.
The Merits of Universal Scholarships: Benefit-Cost Evidence from the Kalamazoo Promise
Authors: Bartik Timothy J. , Hershbein Brad , Lachowska Marta
Published: November 2016

As higher education costs rise, many communities have begun to adopt their own financial aid strategy: place-based scholarships for students graduating from the local school district. In this paper, we examine the benefits and costs of the Kalamazoo Promise, one of the more universal and more generous place-based scholarships. Building upon estimates of the program’s heterogeneous effects on degree attainment, scholarship cost data, and projections of future earnings by education, we examine the Promise’s benefit-cost ratios for students differentiated by income, race, and gender. Although the average rate of return of the program is 11%, rates of return vary greatly by group. The Promise has high returns for both low-income and non-low-income groups, for non-Whites, and for women, while benefit assumptions matter more for Whites and men. Our results show that universal scholarships can reach many students and have a high rate of return, particularly for places with a high percentage of African American students. They also highlight the importance of disaggregating benefits and costs by subgroup when performing benefit-cost analysis when the treatment is heterogeneous.
Determining Criteria to Evaluate Outcomes of Businesses’ Provision of Remedy: Applying a Human Rights-Based Approach
Authors: THOMPSON Benjamin
Published: November 2016

The UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (GPs) expect businesses to participate in operational-level, non-judicial mechanisms to address the grievances of communities affected by their activities. While there is guidance on operational-level grievance mechanisms as to what constitutes an effective process, inquiries into the effectiveness of outcomes have been met with less success. This article identifies three key incongruities within the GPs regarding effective outcomes: (1) the broader interpretation of remedy within the Remedy Pillar compared to the Respect Pillar; (2) the novelty of enforcing human rights through dialogue and engagement as opposed to adjudication; and (3) the difficulty in reconciling objective human rights standards with the subjective preferences of the parties. It then aims to resolve these issues by applying a human rights-based approach: examining how empowerment of communities can act as the founding basis for understanding whether an outcome is effective. It concludes by examining the working of the Porgera Mine mechanism from this perspective.
A 5 year retrospective study of emergency department use in Northwest Ontario: a measure of mental health and addictions needs
Authors: Matsumoto Cai-lei , O’Driscoll Terry , Lawrance Jennifer , Jakubow Andre , Madden Sharen , Kelly Len
Published: November 2016

Objective

The main objective of this study was to understand the five-year trend in total emergency department (ED) visits, frequency of use, and diagnoses and disposition of patients. Since the region has experienced a profound increase in opioid use disorder since 2009, we were particularly interested in changes in the volume of mental health and addiction (MHA) ED presentations.

Methods

Retrospective aggregate data analysis of ED visits to the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre 2010-2014.

Results

ED visit volume increased 29% over the five-year study period, while MHA ED visits increased 73%. The admission rate remained stable at 6.9% of ED visits. Five-year trends in clinically grouped diagnostic categories identified respiratory, MHA, and abdominal/pelvic complaints as the three most common ED presentations. In 2014, MHA presentations accounted for 10.3% of ED visits, 8.7% of admissions, and 20.0% of inter-hospital transfers.

Conclusion

The dramatic increase in MHA ED visits mirrors the opioid epidemic the region is experiencing. MHA may soon become the commonest ED presentation. If reasons for ED visits serve as a proxy for unmet outpatient needs, increased efforts at developing community MHA services and addressing the related social determinants of health are required.
Frequency of Use of Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs by Nurses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Boyce John M. , Polgreen Philip M. , Monsalve Mauricio , Macinga David R. , Arbogast James W.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Recently, the US Food and Drug Administration requested that a “maximal use” trial be conducted to ensure the safety of frequent use of alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs) by healthcare workers.

OBJECTIVE

To establish how frequently volunteers should be exposed to ABHR during a maximal use trial.

DESIGN

Retrospective review of literature and analysis of 2 recent studies that utilized hand hygiene electronic compliance monitoring (ECM) systems.

METHODS

We reviewed PubMed for articles published between 1970 and December 31, 2015, containing the terms hand washing, hand hygiene, hand hygiene compliance, and alcohol-based hand rubs. Article titles, abstracts, or text were reviewed to determine whether the frequency of ABHR use by healthcare workers was reported. Two studies using hand hygiene ECM systems were reviewed to determine how frequently nurses used ABHR per shift and per hour.

RESULTS

Of 3,487 citations reviewed, only 10 reported how frequently individual healthcare workers used ABHR per shift or per hour. Very conservative estimates of the frequency of ABHR use were reported owing to shortcomings of the methods utilized. The greatest frequency of ABHR use was recorded by an ECM system in a medical intensive care unit. In 95% of nursing shifts, individual nurses used ABHR 141 times or less per shift, and 15 times or less per hour.

CONCLUSIONS

Hand hygiene ECM systems established that the frequency of exposure to ABHRs varies substantially among nurses. Our findings should be useful in designing how frequently individuals should be exposed to ABHR during a maximal use trial.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:189–195
Establishing a physical health monitoring service for patients on depot antipsychotic medication
Authors: Gill M. , McKenna K. , McCauley M. , Gulzar M.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Patients with major mental illness are recognised to be at risk of premature death for a multitude of reasons. This initiative aimed to improve the physical health monitoring of patients prescribed depot antipsychotic medication in a catchment area of ~36 000 in Ireland.

Objectives

International best practice recommends monitoring of blood tests, physical parameters such as weight, BMI, waist circumference and blood pressure, and side effects of patients prescribed antipsychotic medication. A clinic was established to target these interventions.

Methods

A cohort of patients receiving antipsychotics in long-acting injectable form was chosen. A twice-yearly, multidisciplinary health monitoring clinic was established. Evaluation involved an audit of medical records which measured the proportion of those attending the clinic who had blood test monitoring and physical parameters recorded.

Results

Before the clinic’s implementation, 30% of patients had evidence of some blood test monitoring, 9% had evidence of complete blood testing and one patient had evidence of physical health parameters having been recorded. One year after the implementation 78% of patients had evidence of some blood test monitoring, 61% had evidence of full blood test monitoring and 100% had evidence of physical parameters recorded.

Conclusions

The clinic was positively received by patients, and led to improved teamwork. Recommendations include organising concurrent psychiatric and phlebotomy clinics so that patients may avail of psychiatric review and blood testing at a single appointment. As a result of the increased focus on physical health monitoring, a similar project is planned to target all patients prescribed antipsychotics.