bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temperature elevation measured in a tissue-mimicking phantom for transvaginal ultrasound at clinical settings
Authors: Miloro Piero , Martin Eleanor , Shaw Adam
Published: February 2017

Introduction

This paper reports the results of an audit to assess the possible thermal hazard associated with the clinical use of ultrasound scanners in UK Hospitals for transvaginal ultrasound imaging.

Methods

An anatomically relevant phantom composed of a block of agar-based tissue mimicking material with embedded thermal sensors was developed. Seventeen hospitals around the UK were visited and a total of 64 configurations were tested. A representative typical scanning protocol was adopted, which primarily used B-mode with 30 s periods of colour-flow and pulsed Doppler modes for both gynaecology and obstetrics pre-sets.

Results

The results confirmed that the highest temperature increase is always at the surface. The greatest temperature rise measured across all the systems was 3.6℃, with an average of 2.0℃ and 2.16℃ for gynaecology and obstetrics pre-sets, respectively. For some systems, the temperature increased rapidly when selecting one of the Doppler modes, so using them for longer than 30 s will in many cases lead to greater heating. It is also shown that, in agreement with previous studies, the displayed thermal index greatly underestimates the temperature rise, particularly close to the transducer face but even to distances approaching 2 cm.

Conclusions

Overall, the results of the audit for the temperature rise during transvaginal ultrasound at clinical settings fell within the limits indicated by the national and international standards, for the pre-sets tested and following a representative typical scanning protocol. Only selected pre-sets were tested and the scanner outputs were not maximised (for example by using zoom, greater depth or narrow sector angles). Consequently, higher temperatures than those measured can certainly be achieved.
Outbreak of vancomycin-resistant enterococcus on a haematology ward: management and control
Authors: García Martínez de Artola Diego , Castro Beatriz , Ramos María José , Díaz Cuevas Zaida , Lakhwani Sunil , Lecuona María
Published: February 2017

Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) infections and outbreaks are still infrequent in Spain. A six-month outbreak, which took place in a haematology ward, its control and management are described in this study. A total of 22 patients were colonised and two bloodstream infections occurred during this period. Even though there were two waves of new colonised patients, a multidisciplinary approach, quick interventions and enhanced infection control policies were required in order to control this outbreak.
Pilot Study of a Novel Application for Data Visualization in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Wong Jenise C. , Neinstein Aaron B. , Look Howard , Arbiter Brandon , Chokr Nora , Ross Cassie , Adi Saleh
Published: February 2017

Background:

A novel software application, Blip, was created to combine and display diabetes data from multiple devices in a uniform, user-friendly manner. The objective of this study was to test the usability of this application by adults and caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods:

Patients (n = 35) and caregivers of children with T1D (n = 30) using an insulin pump for >1 year ± CGM were given access to the software for 3 months. Diabetes management practices and the use of diabetes data were assessed at baseline and at study end, and feedback was gathered in a concluding questionnaire.

Results:

At baseline, 97% of participants agreed it was important for patients to know how to interpret glucose data. Most felt that clinicians and patients should share the tasks of reviewing data, finding patterns, and making changes to their insulin plans. However, despite valuing shared responsibility, at baseline, 43% of participants never downloaded pump data, and only 9% did so at least once per month. At study end, 72% downloaded data at least once during the 3-month study, and 38% downloaded at least once per month. Regarding the software application, participants liked the central repository of data and the user interface. Suggestions included providing tools for understanding and interpreting glucose patterns, an easier uploading process, and access with mobile devices.

Conclusions:

Collaboration between developers and researchers prompted iterative, rapid development of data visualization software and improvements in the uploading process and user interface, which facilitates clinical integration and future clinical studies.
A 57-Year-Old Man With Headache, Numbness, and Weakness
Authors: Snider Sam , Bhattacharyya Shamik
Published: February 2017

We present the case of a 57-year-old man with headache, numbness, and weakness. We review the differential diagnosis and discuss the relevant imaging. Once the diagnosis is evident, we review the natural history and evidence in support of each possible treatment.
Political learning by social engagement? Chances and risks for citizenship education
Authors: Wohnig Alexander
Published: February 2017

More and more programs of citizenship education in Germany (and other countries) tend to advance democratic citizenship through social learning in communities. A strong emphasis is put on social engagement to get young people involved in politics as well as to teach them participation. A qualitative analysis of selected German social learning programs shows that it is not given that students independently evaluate the political contexts of social problems. Nevertheless, these programs, which try to encourage democratic citizenship, are more characterized by behavioral goals and the aspiration to attain a prosocial attitude change than by aiming at democratic behavior. For an “activating state,” personal responsibility seems to be more important than critical analysis and truly political participation. This article attempts to shed light on key structural shortcomings and problems that are the origin of young people’s apolitical perceptions of community work and common practices of service learning. The goal is to develop a conception of citizenship education that leads from social to political learning.
A patient-centric approach to improving experience in urological cancer care
Authors: Flott Kelsey , Hounsome Luke , Vuik Sabine , Darzi Ara , Mayer Erik
Published: February 2017

Rationale:

Patient experience data are often reported at the provider level rather than the patient level, meaning that providers receive an aggregate score of all patient experience scores across their service. This inflates positivity and makes it difficult for providers to use patient experience scores to tailor improvements for patients within specific sites, wards or pathways. Patients have different priorities for their urological cancer care experience, and improvement programmes should take these differences into account. A more granular understanding of different patterns of patient experience will allow health care providers to focus their improvement strategies differently based on the needs of the patient groups that utilise their services.

Objective:

This study examines what groups exist within the urological cancer patient population, and what are their respective priorities for patient experience improvement.

Methods:

Using urological cancers as a case study, this paper uses data from the UK National Cancer Patient Experience Survey to segment the patient population based on their scores for 14 domains of experience. TwoStep cluster analyses were carried out on two groups of survey respondents: those who had an operation and those who did not. These analyses identified previously unknown clusters within the two populations. Profiles were created for each cluster based on a series of demographic variables, and a regression analysis was conducted to assess the significance of each demographic variable in determining cluster membership.

Results:

The TwoStep analysis yielded three clusters for both the operations and non-operations groups based on how patients experienced care: Positive, Middling and Negative. Gender, age, cancer type and income significantly influenced cluster membership: women, younger and more deprived patients were more prevalent in the Negative experience cluster.

Conclusion:

This more nuanced understanding of the patient population and the variation in their priorities for patient experience improvement is the first step to more patient-centric improvement. It will allow services to make more meaningful and individualised changes based on the voices of patients. This is a proof of concept that can be applied broadly in health care to more effectively deliver on the patient-centred agenda.
Non-transitional cell carcinoma only partly explains adverse survival outcomes in females with T1–T4 bladder cancer: A summary of UK epidemiological data
Authors: Ball Kathryn S , Hounsome Luke , Verne Julia , Kockelbergh Roger
Published: February 2017

Objective:

The objective of this article is to investigate why bladder cancer (BC) survival is worse in females using national cancer datasets.

Patients and methods:

All BC diagnoses since the year 2000 were identified from the National Cancer Data Repository (NCDR) using ICD-10 Code C67 (Bladder cancer T1–T4). Age-standardised relative survival rates for males and females diagnosed with BC between 2000 and 2010 were obtained from Public Health England.

Results:

Five-year relative survival of men with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) BC (Code C67) was 61%, but in females was significantly less at 52%. One in four female BC (27%) patients are non-TCC, proportionately far more compared to 1:6 (16%) non-TCC BC in males. Five-year relative survival in non-TCC BC subtypes was notably reduced to 23% in females compared to 35% in men. Only 47% of patients with non-TCC BC receive surgical treatment compared to 82% for all BC.

Conclusion:

Relative survival from non-TCC BC is significantly less than the overall survival from TCC BC. Female patients with invasive BC have a worse survival than men. This is partly explained by the proportionately higher incidence of non-TCC BC in females, but women with TCC BC also have worse outcomes so other factors must contribute. Female gender should be recognised as an adverse risk factor in BC survival and influence management decisions.
Cardiovascular outcomes in kidney cancer patients
Authors: Mensah Elsie Ellimah , Hounsome Luke , Verne Julia , Kockelbergh Roger , Mayer Erik
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

In the surgical management of small renal tumours, current guidelines recommend that partial nephrectomy should be the preferred option wherever possible. This is based on evidence suggesting improved quality of life outcomes, morbidity and mortality and equivalent oncological outcomes when compared with radical nephrectomy. Chronic kidney disease is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease and subsequent mortality. This study explored differences in cardiac-related events and co-morbidity, using linked registry data for patients undergoing radical or partial nephrectomy for T1 renal tumours.

Methods:

Data from the National Cancer Registration Service was searched to identify T1 renal cancer diagnoses between 1999 and 2012. This data was matched against hospital episode statistics to identify those patients who had undergone radical or partial nephrectomy between 1999 and 2013 using OPCS codes. Data was collected on cardiac-related admissions and deaths in nephrectomy patients. Equivalent data was also collected for the general population to allow age-standardized comparison. Charlson score was used as a proxy for pre-operative co-morbidity.

Results:

Radical/partial nephrectomy patients had a greater risk of cardiac-related admissions compared with the general population (relative risk (RR) 3.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.24–3.40), but with no increase in cardiac-related deaths (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.70–1.01). There was no difference in the admission risk, or death, comparing radical or partial nephrectomy for T1 renal tumours (RR 1.02, 95% CI 0.88–1.17) using ‘time to event’ analysis. There was no difference in the comorbidity index between radical nephrectomy and partial nephrectomy patients.

Conclusion:

The higher incidence of cardiac-related admissions seen for radical/partial nephrectomy patients may be explained by a higher proportion of patients with medical illnesses including cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, diabetes) undergoing renal imaging. The absence of a difference between the radical nephrectomy and partial nephrectomy groups supports the phenomenon of surgically-induced chronic kidney disease, which may not have the same morbidity implications as medically-induced chronic kidney disease.
Outcomes in urological cancer are strongly influenced by route to diagnosis
Authors: Douglas-Moore Jayne L , Hounsome Luke , Verne Julia , Kockelbergh Roger
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

The Routes to Diagnosis study has recorded data on new cancer diagnoses since 2006. The route to diagnosis of urological cancer influences outcomes and factors including gender, age and deprivation are implicated in affecting the way in which patients present.

Materials and methods:

Data were obtained from the National Cancer Intelligence Network Routes to Diagnosis study. Every new cancer case is assigned to one of eight routes of diagnosis, seven of which are applicable to urological cancers. Data from 2006 to 2013 are described in this report.

Results:

Two week wait is the most common route to diagnosis of bladder and testicular cancer compared to prostate, renal and penile malignancy in which routine general practitioner referral was the most common route. Two week wait referrals are associated with the best survival, and emergency presentations with the worst. Emergency presentation increases with advancing age but is also noted to be a significant route to diagnosis in patients less than 50 years. Bladder and renal cancer are more common in men but the route to diagnosis varies with gender. Increasing deprivation increases emergency presentation but has minimal effect on two week wait and routine general practitioner referrals.

Conclusion:

National data on the impact of route to diagnosis of urological malignancy have been described for the first time. The effect of age and gender on route to diagnosis and consequently cancer outcome has been noted. To enable earlier diagnosis attention must focus on extremes of age, patients with penile cancer and the most deprived patients.
Can experience overcome stereotypes in times of terror threat?
Authors: Holman Mirya R. , Merolla Jennifer L. , Zechmeister Elizabeth J.
Published: February 2017

Research on evaluations of leaders has frequently found that female leaders receive lower ratings in times of national security crisis. However, less is known about countervailing factors. We contend that partisanship and leadership experience in relevant domains are two factors that can counteract the negative effects of terrorist threat on evaluations of female political leaders. To test this expectation, we implemented a national study in 2012 containing terrorist threat and non-threat conditions, and then asked participants to evaluate political leaders. The results show that Republican leaders, including women, are unaffected by terrorist threat; in contrast, Democratic leaders are punished during times of terrorist threat, but this negative effect is smaller for then-Secretary of State Hillary Clinton compared to Nancy Pelosi, who lacks similar experience. In short, Republican partisanship is a strong countervailing factor, while leadership experience in national security more modestly countervails.
Can axial pain be helpful to determine surgical level in the multilevel cervical radiculopathy?
Authors: Suh Bo-Kyung , You Ki Han , Park Moon Soo
Published: February 2017

Spine surgeons are required to differentiate symptomatic cervical disc herniation with asymptomatic radiographic herniation. Although the dermatomal sensory dysfunction of upper extremity is the most important clue, axial pain including cervicogenic headache and parascapular pain may be helpful to find surgical target level. However, there is no review article about the axial pain originated from cervical spondylotic radiculopathy and relieved by surgical decompression. The purpose is to review the literatures about the axial pain, which can be utilized in determining target level to be decompressed in the patients with cervical radiculopathy at multiple levels. Cervicogenic headaches of suboccipital headaches, retro-orbital pain, retro-auricular pain, or temporal pain may be associated with C2, C3, and C4 radiculopathies. The pain around scapula may be associated with C5, C6, C7, and C8 radiculopathies. However, there is insufficient evidence to make recommendations for the use in clinical practice because they did not evaluate sensitivity and specificity.
Topical versus intravenous tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Meena Sanjay , Benazzo Francesco , Dwivedi Saumitra , Ghiara Matteo
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

The aim of this meta-analysis is to examine the efficacy and safety of intra-articular tranexamic acid (TXA) when compared to intravenous (IV) route.

Methods:

The literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). All randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of topical route and IV route of TXA administration were included.

Results:

Eight randomized clinical trials comprising of 857 patients were included in this analysis. We found no statistically significant difference in terms of total blood loss, drain output, transfusion requirement, thromboembolic complication, tourniquet time and surgical duration.

Conclusion:

Topical TXA has a similar efficacy to IV-TXA in reducing total blood loss, drain output, transfusion rate and haemoglobin drop without any increase in thromboembolic complications.
The risk of iatrogenic injury to anterior tibial artery variations during tibial nail distal interlocking
Authors: Fanter Nathan J , Inouye Sandra E , Beiser Christopher W
Published: February 2017

Introduction:

Tibial intramedullary nailing remains a common tibial fracture fixation method. Tibial nailing indications continue to expand. Neurovascular complications from tibial nailing have been described; however, the proximity of distal tibial locking bolts to the anterior tibial artery (ATA) variants has not.

Materials and Methods:

52 cadaveric legs were dissected identifying three common ATA variants. Each ATA variant received an intraluminal wire to facilitate fluoroscopic identification. Three different intramedullary tibial nails were inserted in each of the three ATA variant specimens. With fluoroscopy, the proximity of the distal locking holes of each tibial nail to the intraluminal wire representing the ATA variant course was measured.

Results:

Of the 40 measurements, the intraluminal wire was directly in the bolt insertional path in 8 of 40 (20%) and within 5 mm in 16 of 40 (40%). All specimens had the wire cross the locking bolt insertional path at least once in each of the nails. The ATA variant taking a more lateral course deep to the extensor digitorum longus and peroneus tertius to overlay the lateral malleolus had the highest occurrence of measurements less than 5 mm.

Conclusions:

The close proximity of tibial nail distal locking bolt holes to ATA variants presents a risk for iatrogenic vascular injury during insertion. The coronal locking bolts pose the greatest iatrogenic risk to the most laterally positioned ATA variant.
Fasciotomy closure techniques
Authors: Jauregui Julio J , Yarmis Samantha J , Tsai Justin , Onuoha Kemjika O , Illical Emmanuel , Paulino Carl B
Published: February 2017

We evaluated the risks and success rates of the three major techniques for compartment syndrome fasciotomy closure by reviewing all literature published to date. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we systematically evaluated the Medline (PubMed) database until July 2015, utilizing the Boolean search sting “compartment syndrome OR fasciotomy closure.” Two authors independently assessed all studies published in the literature to ensure validity of extracted data. The data was compiled into an electronic spreadsheet, and the wound closure rate with each technique was assessed utilizing a proportion random model effect. Success was defined as all wounds that could be closed without skin grafting, amputation, or death. The highest success rate was observed for dynamic dermatotraction and gradual suture approximation, whereas vacuum-assisted closure had the lowest complication rate.
Day-time variation of serum periostin in asthmatic adults treated with ICS/LABA and adults without asthma
Authors: Caswell-Smith Rachel , Cripps Terrianne , Charles Thom , Hosking Alexander , Handigol Meghana , Holweg Cecile , Matthews John , Holliday Mark , Maillot Corentin , Fingleton James , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard , Braithwaite Irene ,   On behalf of the Periostin Study Team
Published: February 2017

Background

We aimed to determine the effect of sampling time during the day on serum periostin levels in adult participants with and without asthma.

Methods

Serum periostin was measured at 2-h intervals from 0800 to 1800 h in 16 adult participants with stable asthma prescribed inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-agonist therapy, and in 16 otherwise healthy participants without asthma. Mixed linear models were used to compare time zero (08:00 h) with subsequent measurement time for serum periostin for both groups.

Results

In both asthma and non-asthma, the mean (SD) serum periostin levels continuously reduced during the day from 53.5 (13.6) ng/mL at 0800 h to 50.9 (13.4) ng/mL at 1800 h (difference log periostin −0.05, P ≤ 0.001) and 50.5 (13.0) ng/mL at 0800 h to 46.2 (11.5) ng/mL at 1800 h (difference log periostin −0.08, P ≤ 0.001) respectively.

Conclusions

Periostin values are higher in the morning compared with the afternoon in asthmatic and non-asthmatic adults. The small magnitude of the variation in serum periostin levels suggests that the time of day in which the serum periostin measurements are made is unlikely to influence treatment decisions if a specific serum periostin level is used to predict treatment responsiveness.

Trial registration Australia New Zealand Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000072617)
Complete genome sequence of Pseudomonas stutzeri strain RCH2 isolated from a Hexavalent Chromium [Cr(VI)] contaminated site
Authors: Chakraborty Romy , Woo Hannah , Dehal Paramvir , Walker Robert , Zemla Marcin , Auer Manfred , Goodwin Lynne A. , Kazakov Alexey , Novichkov Pavel , Arkin Adam P. , Hazen Terry C.
Published: February 2017

Hexavalent Chromium [Cr(VI)] is a widespread contaminant found in soil, sediment, and ground water in several DOE sites, including Hanford 100 H area. In order to stimulate microbially mediated reduction of Cr(VI) at this site, a poly-lactate hydrogen release compound was injected into the chromium contaminated aquifer. Targeted enrichment of dominant nitrate-reducing bacteria post injection resulted in the isolation of Pseudomonas stutzeri strain RCH2. P. stutzeri strain RCH2 was isolated using acetate as the electron donor and is a complete denitrifier. Experiments with anaerobic washed cell suspension of strain RCH2 revealed it could reduce Cr(VI) and Fe(III). The genome of strain RCH2 was sequenced using a combination of Illumina and 454 sequencing technologies and contained a circular chromosome of 4.6 Mb and three plasmids. Global genome comparisons of strain RCH2 with six other fully sequenced P. stutzeri strains revealed most genomic regions are conserved, however strain RCH2 has an additional 244 genes, some of which are involved in chemotaxis, Flp pilus biogenesis and pyruvate/2-oxogluturate complex formation.
Pore types, pore-network analysis, and pore quantification of the lacustrine shale-hydrocarbon system in the Late Triassic Yanchang Formation in the southeastern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Loucks Robert G. , Ruppel Stephen C. , Wang Xiangzeng , Ko Lucy , Peng Sheng , Zhang Tongwei , Rowe Harry D. , Smith Patrick
Published: February 2017

Continental Upper Triassic Yanchang “black shales” in the southeastern Ordos Basin have been proven to be unconventional gas reservoirs. Organic-matter-lean and organic-matter-rich argillaceous mudstones form reservoirs that were deposited in a deeper water lacustrine setting during lake highstands. In the stratified lake, the bottom waters were dysaerobic to anoxic. This low-energy and low-oxygen lake-bottom setting allowed types II and III organic matter to accumulate. Interbedded with the argillaceous mudstones are argillaceous arkosic siltstones deposited by gravity-flow processes. Rock samples from the Yanchang Chang 7–9 members are very immature mineralogically. Mineral grains are predominantly composed of relatively equal portions of quartz and feldspar. The high clay-mineral content, generally greater than 40%, has promoted extensive compaction of the sediments, permitting the ductile material to deform and occlude interparticle pores. Furthermore, this high clay-mineral content does not favor hydraulic fracturing of the mudstone reservoir. The pore network within the mudstones is dominated by intraparticle pores and a lesser abundance of organic-matter pores. Interparticle pores are rare. The mean Gas Research Institute (GRI) crushed-rock porosity is 4.2%. Because the pore network is dominated by poorly connected intraparticle pores, permeability is very low (the GRI-calculated geometric mean permeability = 9.9 nd). The dominance of intraparticle pores creates a very poor correlation between GRI porosity and GRI permeability. Several methods of porosity analysis (GRI crushed rock, nitrogen adsorption, and point count) were conducted on each samples, and the results were compared. There is no significant correlation between the three methods, implying that each method measures different pore sizes or types. There is also no relationship between the porosity and permeability and total organic carbon. Much of the mature (peak oil window) organic matter is nonporous, suggesting that it is of type III. Most of the organic-matter pores are in migrated solid bitumen. Overall, the samples analyzed have low porosity and permeability for mudrocks.
Geochemical evidence for oil and gas expulsion in Triassic lacustrine organic-rich mudstone, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Zhang Tongwei , Wang Xiangzeng , Zhang Jianfeng , Sun Xun , Milliken Kitty L. , Ruppel Stephen C. , Enriquez Daniel
Published: February 2017

Forty-six core samples were collected from a deep well that penetrated organic-rich layers of the Chang 7, 8, and 9 members of the Yanchang Formation (Fm) in the Ordos Basin. Tests for total organic content (TOC), Rock-Eval pyrolysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD) mineralogy, and molecular composition of gases released from rock crushing were conducted. Analytical results indicate that TOC and clay contents are elevated. The organic matter (OM)-rich mudstone in the Triassic Yanchang Fm suggests good-to-excellent source potential for oil generation. Its thermal maturity is in the oil window. Strong petroleum expulsion occurred from the upper part of the approximately 13 m (42.6 ft) thick Chang 7 member, and for the Chang 8 and Chang 9 members, resulting in low free oil and low methane ([Formula: see text]) concentration in these OM-rich intervals. A combination of sandstone and thin organic-rich mudstone layers is a perfect hybrid lithology stacking pattern for petroleum expulsion. The thickness for effective source rock, approximately 10–12 m (32.8–39.3 ft), varied with sandstone/mudstone lithology stacking pattern. In contrast, limited or no oil expulsion occurred in the lower part of Chang 7 member, a 25 m (82 ft) thick organic-rich interval, which is indicated by high free oil and high [Formula: see text] concentration. A [Formula: see text]-TOC plot can be used to differentiate generated gas, retained gas in OM-rich mudstones, and migrated gas in permeable sandstone beds. We have developed a conceptual model for petroleum expulsion from OM-rich thin versus OM-rich thick layers. Compaction and thermal volume expansion of oil generated from OM may play an important role in petroleum expulsion in OM-rich mudstones. The estimated petroleum expulsion efficiency is approximately 70% and 35% for thin and thick OM-rich mudstone layers, respectively. The redistributed OM in clay-dominated rock assemblage likely forms the preferred migration path to petroleum expulsion.
Ataxin-2 binding protein 1 is a context-specific positive regulator of Notch signaling during neurogenesis inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Shukla Jay Prakash , Deshpande Girish , Shashidhara L. S.
Published: February 2017

The role of Notch pathway during lateral inhibition underlying binary cell fate choice is extensively studied, although context-specificity that generates diverse outcomes is relatively less well understood. In the peripheral nervous system of Drosophila melanogaster, differential Notch signaling between cells of proneural cluster orchestrates sensory organ specification. Here we report functional analysis of Drosophila Ataxin2 binding protein1 (dA2BP1) during this process. It’s human orthologue A2BP1 is linked to type 2 Spinocerebellar ataxia and other complex neuronal disorders. Downregulation of dA2BP1 in the proneural cluster increases adult sensory bristle number whereas it’s over-expression results in loss of bristles. We show that dA2BP1 regulates sensory organ specification by potentiating Notch signaling. Supporting its direct involvement, the biochemical analysis shows that dA2BP1 is part of the Suppressor of Hairless (Su(H)) complex both in the presence and absence of Notch. However, in the absence of Notch signaling, the dA2BP1 interacting fraction of Su(H) does not associate with the repressor proteins, Groucho and CtBP. Based on these data we propose a model explaining requirement of dA2BP1 as a positive regulator of Notch, whose activity is context-specific.
Direct conversion of root primordium into shoot meristem relies on timing of stem cell niche development
Authors: Rosspopoff Olga , Chelysheva Liudmila , Saffar Julie , Lecorgne Lena , Gey Delphine , Caillieux Erwann , Colot Vincent , Roudier François , Hilson Pierre , Berthomé Richard , Da Costa Marco , Rech Philippe
Published: February 2017

To understand how the identity of an organ can be switched, we studied the transformation of lateral root primordia (LRP) into shoot meristems in Arabidopsis root segments. In this system, the cytokinin-induced conversion does not involve the formation of callus-like structures. Detailed analysis showed that the conversion sequence starts with a mitotic pause and is concomitant with the differential expression of regulators of root and shoot development. The conversion requires the presence of apical stem cells, and only LRP at stages VI or VII can be switched. It is engaged as soon as cell divisions resume because their position and orientation differ in the converting organ compared with the undisturbed emerging LRP. By alternating auxin and cytokinin treatments, we showed that the root and shoot organogenetic programs are remarkably plastic, as the status of the same plant stem cell niche can be reversed repeatedly within a set developmental window. Thus, the networks at play in the meristem of a root can morph in the span of a couple of cell division cycles into those of a shoot, and back, through transdifferentiation.
Self-organising aggregates of zebrafish retinal cells for investigating mechanisms of neural lamination
Authors: Eldred Megan K. , Charlton-Perkins Mark , Muresan Leila , Harris William A.
Published: February 2017

To investigate the cell-cell interactions necessary for the formation of retinal layers, we cultured dissociated zebrafish retinal progenitors in agarose microwells. Within these wells, the cells re-aggregated within hours, forming tight retinal organoids. Using a Spectrum of Fates zebrafish line, in which all different types of retinal neurons show distinct fluorescent spectra, we found that by 48 hours in culture, the retinal organoids acquire a distinct spatial organization, i.e. they became coarsely but clearly laminated. Retinal pigment epithelium cells were in the centre, photoreceptors and bipolar cells were next most central and amacrine cells and retinal ganglion cells were on the outside. Image analysis allowed us to derive quantitative measures of lamination, which we then used to find that Müller glia, but not RPE cells, are essential for this process.
A process engineering approach to increase organoid yield
Authors: Arora Natasha , Alsous Jasmin Imran , Guggenheim Jacob W. , Mak Michael , Munera Jorge , Wells James M. , Kamm Roger D. , Asada H. Harry , Shvartsman Stanislav Y. , Griffith Linda G.
Published: February 2017

Temporal manipulation of the in vitro environment and growth factors can direct differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into organoids, aggregates with multiple tissue-specific cell types and three-dimensional structure mimicking native organs. A mechanistic understanding of early organoid formation is essential for improving the robustness of these methods, which is necessary prior to use in drug development and regenerative medicine. We investigated intestinal organoid emergence, focusing on measurable parameters of hindgut spheroids, the intermediate step between definitive endoderm and mature organoids. We found that 13% of spheroids were pre-organoids that matured into intestinal organoids. Spheroids varied by several structural parameters: cell number, diameter, and morphology. Hypothesizing that diameter and the morphological feature of an inner mass were key parameters for spheroid maturation, we sorted spheroids using an automated micropipette aspiration and release system and monitored the cultures for organoid formation. We discovered that populations of spheroids with a diameter greater than 75 µm and an inner mass are enriched 1.5- and 3.8-fold for pre-organoids, respectively, thus providing rational guidelines towards establishing a robust protocol for high quality intestinal organoids.
A novel floor plate boundary defined by adjacentEn1andDbx1microdomains distinguishes midbrain dopamine and hypothalamic neurons
Authors: Nouri Navid , Awatramani Rajeshwar
Published: February 2017

The mesodiencephalic floor plate (mdFP) is the source of diverse neuron types. Yet, how this structure is compartmentalized has not been clearly elucidated. Here, we identify a novel boundary subdividing the mdFP into two microdomains, defined by Engrailed 1 (En1) and developing brain homeobox 1 (Dbx1). Utilizing simultaneous dual and intersectional fate mapping, we demonstrate that this boundary is precisely formed with minimal overlap between En1 and Dbx1 microdomains, unlike many other boundaries. We show that the En1 microdomain gives rise to dopaminergic (DA) neurons, while the Dbx1 microdomain gives rise to subthalamic (STN), premammillary (PM), and posterior hypothalamic (PH) populations. To determine if En1 is sufficient to induce DA neuron production beyond its normal limit, we generated a mouse strain to express En1 in the Dbx1 microdomain. In mutants, we observed ectopic production of DA neurons derived from the Dbx1 microdomain, at the expense of STN and PM populations. Our findings provide new insights into subdivisions in the mdFP, and will impact current strategies for the conversion of stem cells into DA neurons.
Efficient TALEN-mediated gene targeting of chicken primordial germ cells
Authors: Taylor Lorna , Carlson Daniel F. , Nandi Sunil , Sherman Adrian , Fahrenkrug Scott C. , McGrew Michael J.
Published: February 2017

In this work we use TALE nucleases (TALENs) to target a reporter construct to the DDX4 (vasa) locus in chicken primordial germ cells. Vasa is a key germ cell determinant in many animal species and is posited to control avian germ cell formation. We show that TALENs mediate homology directed repair of the DDX4 locus on the Z sex chromosome at high (8.1%) efficiencies. Large genetic deletions of 30kb encompassing the entire DDX4 locus were also created using a single TALEN pair. The targeted PGCs were germ line competent and were used to produce DDX4 null offspring. In DDX4 knockout chickens, PGCs are initially formed but are lost during meiosis in the developing ovary leading to adult female sterility. TALEN-mediated gene targeting in avian primordial germ cells is therefore an efficient process.
Theoretical Clarification of the Coexistence of Cl Effects on Au/TiO2: The Interaction between Au Clusters and the TiO2 Surface, and the Aggregation of Au Clusters on the TiO2 Surface
Authors: Tada Kohei , Koga Hiroaki , Hayashi Akihide , Kondo Yudai , Kawakami Takashi , Yamanaka Shusuke , Okumura Mitsutaka
Published: February 2017

Interactions between nanosized Au cluster models (Au rods, ribbons, and film) and rutile TiO2 (110) modeled surfaces (stoichiometric: sTiO2, reduced: rTiO2, and Cl-adsorbed: Cl-rTiO2) were determined using density functional theory. The Au–Au bonds are weakened and the Au–Ti bonds are strengthened because the oxygen defect sites in rTiO2 donate electrons to the nanosized Au models. These interactions suppress the aggregation of the nanosized Au models on the rTiO2 surface. However, Cl atoms are more strongly adsorbed at the oxygen defect site of rTiO2 than Au. The amount of transferred electrons from Cl-rTiO2 to the nanosized Au models is smaller than that of rTiO2. Notably, the Au/Cl-rTiO2 interactions are smaller than the Au/sTiO2 interactions in two- and three-dimensional Au clusters. Thus, Cl atom adsorption onto the oxygen defect site decreases the Au/TiO2 interaction, and the aggregation of the nanosized Au models easily proceeds on Cl-rTiO2. Hence, the Cl atom adsorption onto the oxygen defect site of the TiO2 surface can be assumed as a reason for the residual Cl enhancement of Au aggregation on the TiO2 surface during Au/TiO2 catalyst preparation.
Construção de hidrelétrica na Etiópia
Authors: Peçanha Filho Otacilio
Published: February 2017

O caso trata das negociações entre os governos da Etiópia, Egito e Sudão, a respeito dos possíveis impactos da construção em território etíope da hidrelétrica Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). O governo sudanês e o governo egípcio, sobretudo esse último, temem pelas possíveis consequências negativas da obra em seus países.
We commerce?
Authors: Morais Isabela Carvalho , Pereira Alana Deusilan Sester , Da Cunha Maria Alexandra Viegas Cortez
Published: February 2017

Paulo é o CEO de uma startup de e-commerce brasileira. Ele tem que lidar com uma situação difícil relacionada a uma proposta de compra da Mine. A empresa sob sua liderança está em crescimento e recebe ofertas que parecem irrecusáveis. Mas, como todo processo de fusão e aquisição, a oportunidade apresenta-se com fatores positivos e negativos. Este caso de ensino traz os prós e contras e as análises feitas pelo CEO para tomar essa importante decisão para o futuro de sua empresa.
Health care and social media: What patients really understand
Authors: Hoedebecke Kyle , Beaman Lindsey , Mugambi Joy , Shah Sanam , Mohasseb Marwa , Vetter Cheyanne , Yu Kim , Gergianaki Irini , Couvillon Emily
Published: February 2017

Background: Low health literacy is associated with decreased patient compliance and worse outcomes - with clinicians increasingly relying on printed materials to lower such risks. Yet, many of these documents exceed recommended comprehension levels. Furthermore, patients look increasingly to social media (SoMe) to answer healthcare questions. The character limits built into Twitter encourage users to publish small quantities of text, which are more accessible to patients with low health literacy. The present authors hypothesize that SoMe posts are written at lower grade levels than traditional medical sources, improving patient health literacy. Methods: The data sample consisted of the first 100 original tweets from three trending medical hashtags, leading to a total of 300 tweets. The Flesch-Kincaid Readability Formula (FKRF) was used to derive grade level of the tweets. Data was analyzed via descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The readability scores for the data sample had a mean grade level of 9.45. A notable 47.6% of tweets were above ninth grade reading level. An independent-sample t-test comparing FKRF mean scores of different hashtags found differences between the means of the following: #hearthealth versus #diabetes (t = 3.15, p = 0.002); #hearthealth versus #migraine (t = 0.09, p = 0.9); and #diabetes versus #migraine (t = 3.4, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Tweets from this data sample were written at a mean grade level of 9.45, signifying a level between the ninth and tenth grades. This is higher than desired, yet still better than traditional sources, which have been previously analyzed. Ultimately, those responsible for health care SoMe posts must continue to improve efforts to reach the recommended reading level (between the sixth and eighth grade), so as to ensure optimal comprehension of patients.
Lectotypification of five Linnaean names in Lonicera (Caprifoliaceae)
Authors: Ferrer-Gallego P. Pablo
Published: February 2017

The lectotypification of five Linnaean names in the genus Lonicera (L. alpigena, L. caerulea, L. dioica, L. nigra, L. tatarica) is discussed. The names are lectotypified using specimens preserved at LINN and UPS (Burser’s collection) herbaria.
Out‐of‐India dispersal of Paliurus (Rhamnaceae) indicated by combined molecular phylogenetic and fossil evidence
Authors: Chen Yong-Sheng , Meseguer Andrea S. , Godefroid Martin , Zhou Zhuo , Zhang Jian-Wen , Deng Tao , Kim Joo-Hwan , Nie Ze-Long , Liu Yu-Sheng (Christopher) , Sun Hang
Published: February 2017

Paliurus (Rhamnaceae) is a small genus with a narrow and disjunct distribution in East Asia and the Mediterranean. Fossil evidence from the Late Cretaceous to the present suggests it once had a broad geographic distribution, encompassing parts of India, North America, Asia, and Europe. To reconstruct the evolutionary history of Paliurus and understand the origin of the disjunction observed today in the Northern Hemisphere, phylogenetic and biogeographical reconstructions were performed based on ITS, trnL‐F, and rbcL sequences. Paliurus is shown to be a monophyletic genus, which could be divided into two clades as suggested by previous studies. Biogeographical inference integrated with fossil information indicates that the origin and dispersal pattern of the genus coincide with the “Out‐of‐India” hypothesis. The genus may have originated in India or other parts of Gondwana and then dispersed to East Asia after the collision of the Indian subcontinent with Eurasia, and to North America via the Bering land bridge. Paliurus appears to have reached the Mediterranean region in the late Oligocene following closure of the Turgai Strait. The uplift of the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau and the advent of drying and cooling climates during the Miocene may have fragmented the distribution of the genus, shaping the biogeographical patterns observed today. Paliurus populations in different regions either became extinct or adapted to changes in local ecological conditions following global climatic shifts through geological time.
Different speciation types meet in a Mediterranean genus: The biogeographic history ofCymbalaria(Plantaginaceae)
Authors: Carnicero Pau , Sáez Llorenç , Garcia-Jacas Núria , Galbany-Casals Mercè
Published: February 2017

Cymbalariacomprises ten species and six subspecies growing in rocky habitats in the Mediterranean Basin. Several features, such as the genus’ highly fragmented distribution as well as noticeable ecological differentiation between partially sympatric species and presence of ploidy barriers between species suggest the involvement of different speciation types in its evolution. The aims of this study were to test the monophyly ofCymbalariaand to reconstruct infrageneric phylogenetic relationships, to infer the genus’ biogeographic history by estimating divergence times and ancestral distribution areas of lineages, and to disentangle the role of different speciation types. To address these issues, we constructed a phylogeny with a complete taxon sampling based on ITS, 3′ETS,ndhFandrpl32‐trnLsequences. We used the nuclear ribosomal DNA data to produce a time‐calibrated phylogeny, which served as basis for estimating ploidy level evolution and biogeographic history.Cymbalariawas resolved as monophyletic. The genus originated ca. 4 Ma and three lineages segregated rapidly, one comprising solelyC. microcalyxsubsp.microcalyxand the other two corresponding to western and central‐eastern species, respectively. The main diversification events occurred after the onset of the Mediterranean climate and during Pleistocene climate oscillations. Both founder‐event speciation linked to long‐distance dispersal events and sympatric speciation were supported by the biogeographic analyses. In addition, at least two polyploid speciation events were inferred. Finally, conflicts between current taxonomy and the phylogeny at the species and subspecies level clearly show the need of more detailed integrative taxonomic studies.
Structure simulation of fiber-composite material made with use of different types of sheet semi-products
Authors: Кочешков Игорь , Kocheshkov Igor
Published: February 2017

Strength properties of fiber composites depend upon fiber location in them. The fiber location in composite is defined by the conditions of its production, for instance, by a type of sheet semi-product used. In spite of the significance of the factor mentioned above the mathematical methods describing the peculiarities of the structure of composites manufactured under different conditions are absent. That is why, the creation of simulators allowing the manifestation of an actual structure of fiber composites is of actual interest At the production of fiber composites made of different types of sheet semi-products the peculiarities of fiber location are defined by their random displacements from the initial ordered position in a semi-product. For the creation of structure simulators of such composites the approaches can be used which are contained in the simulation. In this work there is supposed an algorithm which allows reproducing the peculiarities of the structure of composites made of different types of sheet semi-products with the aid of simulation. The investigations carried out show that with the aid of the algorithm developed the structure close to an actual structure can be imitated. It is confirmed by experimental data. The fiber composite structure models formed with the aid of the simulation can be an initial base for the strength properties prognostication of material taking into account its structure.
5. Diabetes and renal function
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: February 2017

The number of people living with diabetes in the UK is at a record high. Around 4 million people are living with diabetes and an estimated 1.2-1.6 million are at risk of kidney disease as a result. Around 396 000-528 000 people will experience kidney failure. It is vital healthcare professionals play their part in enabling people with diabetes to maintain renal health.
From healthcare assistant to student nurse
Authors: Adair Fiona M
Published: February 2017

This article discusses research undertaken to investigate the journey that student nurses make who have previously worked as healthcare assistants (HCAs). It briefly identifies the research process, followed by in-depth discussion of one of the themes that emerged from the study: the difference between a student nurse and a healthcare assistant.

The author chose to explore this theme in depth because more and more HCAs are undertaking the undergraduate degree programme to become a registered nurse. This article should help to inform them of the changes in role they can expect before embarking on their career progression.