bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatic Fasting-Induced PPARα Activity Does Not Depend on Essential Fatty Acids
Authors: Polizzi Arnaud , Fouché Edwin , Ducheix Simon , Lasserre Frédéric , Marmugi Alice , Mselli-Lakhal Laila , Loiseau Nicolas , Wahli Walter , Guillou Hervé , Montagner Alexandra
Published: September 2016

The liver plays a central role in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism, which is highly sensitive to transcriptional responses to nutrients and hormones. Transcription factors involved in this process include nuclear hormone receptors. One such receptor, PPARα, which is highly expressed in the liver and activated by a variety of fatty acids, is a critical regulator of hepatic fatty acid catabolism during fasting. The present study compared the influence of dietary fatty acids and fasting on hepatic PPARα-dependent responses. Pparα−/− male mice and their wild-type controls were fed diets containing different fatty acids for 10 weeks prior to being subjected to fasting or normal feeding. In line with the role of PPARα in sensing dietary fatty acids, changes in chronic dietary fat consumption influenced liver damage during fasting. The changes were particularly marked in mice fed diets lacking essential fatty acids. However, fasting, rather than specific dietary fatty acids, induced acute PPARα activity in the liver. Taken together, the data imply that the potent signalling involved in triggering PPARα activity during fasting does not rely on essential fatty acid-derived ligand.
Autoimmunity and Cytokine Imbalance in Inherited Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Guez Sophie , Orenti Annalisa , Tadini Gianluca , Scuvera Giulietta , Corti Laura , Scala Alessia , Biganzoli Elia , Berti Emilio , Principi Nicola
Published: September 2016

In order to evaluate the serum anti-skin autoantibodies and cytokine concentrations in patients with different epidermolysis bullosa (EB) types and severity, 42 EB patients and 38 controls were enrolled. Serum anti-skin antibodies were significantly higher in the patients than in the controls (p = 0.008, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001 for desmoglein 1 (DSG1) desmoglein 3 (DSG3), bullous pemphigoid 180 (BP180), BP230 and type VII collagen (COL7), respectively). The same trend was observed for interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-β, and interferon-γ (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.008, p < 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Increases in anti-skin antibodies and cytokine concentrations were higher in patients with recessive dystrophic EB than in those with different types of EB, in generalized cases than in localized ones, and in patients with higher Birmingham Epidermolysis Bullosa Severity (BEBS) scores than in those with a lower score. The BEBS score was directly correlated with BP180, BP230, COL7 (p = 0.015, p = 0.008 and p < 0.001, respectively) and IL-6 (p = 0.03), whereas IL-6 appeared significantly associated with DSG1, DSG3, BP180, BP230 and COL7 (p = 0.015, p = 0.023, p = 0.023, p = 0.015 and p = 0.005, respectively). This study showed that autoimmunity and inflammatory responses are frequently activated in EB, mainly in severe forms, suggesting the use of immunosuppressive drugs or biologicals that are active against pro-inflammatory cytokines to reduce clinical signs and symptoms of disease.
Extracts of Magnolia Species-Induced Prevention of Diabetic Complications: A Brief Review
Authors: Zhao Xuezhong , Li Fengsheng , Sun Wanqing , Gao Ling , Kim Ki , Kim Kyoung , Cai Lu , Zhang Zhiguo , Zheng Yang
Published: September 2016

Diabetic complications are the major cause of mortality for the patients with diabetes. Oxidative stress and inflammation have been recognized as important contributors for the development of many diabetic complications, such as diabetic nephropathy, hepatopathy, cardiomyopathy, and other cardiovascular diseases. Several studies have established the anti-inflammatory and oxidative roles of bioactive constituents in Magnolia bark, which has been widely used in the traditional herbal medicines in Chinese society. These findings have attracted various scientists to investigate the effect of bioactive constituents in Magnolia bark on diabetic complications. The aim of this review is to present a systematic overview of bioactive constituents in Magnolia bark that induce the prevention of obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and diabetic complications, including cardiovascular, liver, and kidney.
Fabrication and Mechanical Characterization of Hydrogel Infused Network Silk Scaffolds
Authors: Kundanati Lakshminath , Singh Saket , Mandal Biman , Murthy Tejas , Gundiah Namrata , Pugno Nicola
Published: September 2016

Development and characterization of porous scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is of great importance. In recent times, silk scaffolds were developed and successfully tested in tissue engineering and drug release applications. We developed a novel composite scaffold by mechanical infusion of silk hydrogel matrix into a highly porous network silk scaffold. The mechanical behaviour of these scaffolds was thoroughly examined for their possible use in load bearing applications. Firstly, unconfined compression experiments show that the denser composite scaffolds displayed significant enhancement in the elastic modulus as compared to either of the components. This effect was examined and further explained with the help of foam mechanics principles. Secondly, results from confined compression experiments that resemble loading of cartilage in confinement, showed nonlinear material responses for all scaffolds. Finally, the confined creep experiments were performed to calculate the hydraulic permeability of the scaffolds using soil mechanics principles. Our results show that composite scaffolds with some modifications can be a potential candidate for use of cartilage like applications. We hope such approaches help in developing novel scaffolds for tissue engineering by providing an understanding of the mechanics and can further be used to develop graded scaffolds by targeted infusion in specific regions.
How to Start with a Clean Crop: Biopesticide Dips Reduce Populations of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) on Greenhouse Poinsettia Propagative Cuttings
Authors: Buitenhuis Rosemarije , Brownbridge Michael , Brommit Angela , Saito Taro , Murphy Graeme
Published: September 2016

(1) Global movement of propagative plant material is a major pathway for introduction of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) into poinsettia greenhouses. Starting a poinsettia crop with high pest numbers disrupts otherwise successful biological control programs and widespread resistance of B. tabaci against pesticides is limiting growers’ options to control this pest; (2) This study investigated the use of several biopesticides (mineral oil, insecticidal soap, Beauveria bassiana, Isaria fumosorosea, Steinernema feltiae) and combinations of these products as immersion treatments (cutting dips) to control B. tabaci on poinsettia cuttings. In addition, phytotoxicity risks of these treatments on poinsettia cuttings, and effects of treatment residues on mortality of commercial whitefly parasitoids (Eretmocerus eremicus and Encarsia formosa) were determined; (3) Mineral oil (0.1% v/v) and insecticidal soap (0.5%) + B. bassiana (1.25 g/L) were the most effective treatments; only 31% and 29%, respectively, of the treated B. tabaci survived on infested poinsettia cuttings and B. tabaci populations were lowest in these treatments after eight weeks. Phytotoxicity risks of these treatments were acceptable, and dip residues had little effect on survival of either parasitoid, and are considered highly compatible; (4) Use of poinsettia cutting dips will allow growers to knock-down B. tabaci populations to a point where they can be managed successfully thereafter with existing biocontrol strategies.
Synthesis and Characterization of Types A and B Gelatin Methacryloyl for Bioink Applications
Authors: Lee Bae , Lum Nathaniel , Seow Li , Lim Pei , Tan Lay
Published: September 2016

Gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) has been increasingly considered as an important bioink material due to its tailorable mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and ability to be photopolymerized in situ as well as printability. GelMA can be classified into two types: type A GelMA (a product from acid treatment) and type B GelMA (a product from alkali treatment). In current literature, there is little research on the comparison of type A GelMA and type B GelMA in terms of synthesis, rheological properties, and printability for bioink applications. Here, we report the synthesis, rheological properties, and printability of types A and B GelMA. Types A and B GelMA samples with different degrees of substitution (DS) were prepared in a controllable manner by a time-lapse loading method of methacrylic anhydride (MAA) and different feed ratios of MAA to gelatin. Type B GelMA tended to have a slightly higher DS compared to type A GelMA, especially in a lower feed ratio of MAA to gelatin. All the type A and type B GelMA solutions with different DS exhibited shear thinning behaviours at 37 °C. However, only GelMA with a high DS had an easy-to-extrude feature at room temperature. The cell-laden printed constructs of types A and B GelMA at 20% w/v showed around 75% cell viability.
Glass Forming Ability and Corrosion Resistance of Zr-Cu-Ni-Al-Ag Bulk Metallic Glass
Authors: Zhou Wei , Zhang Caiwei , Sheng Minqi , Hou Jixin
Published: September 2016

Zr70−xCu12.5Ni10Al7.5Agx (x = 0–10) bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) have been prepared by copper mold casting. The glass-forming ability (GFA) and corrosion behavior of Zr-based BMGs have been investigated. It is found that the GFA of Zr-based BMGs first increases and then decreases with the increase of the Ag content, and the best glass former is Zr65Cu12.5Ni10Al7.5Ag5 with the maximum thickness of the glass phase region of 4.3 mm. The corrosion resistance is, however, found to be worsened with the increase of the Ag content. The mechanisms for the enhancement of GFA and the deterioration of corrosion resistance in the alloys are discussed.
Effects of Sanguis Draconis on Perforator Flap Survival in Rats
Authors: Zhang Yang , Cai Xiaobing , Shen Lifeng , Huang Xiaowen , Wang Xuping , Lan Yinan , Shou Dan
Published: September 2016

Sanguis draconis, a resin known to improve blood circulation, relieve pain, stimulate tissue regeneration, and heal wounds, is widely used in clinical practice. In this study, we prepared an ethanol extract of sanguis draconis (EESD) containing 75.08 mg/g of dracorhodin. The experiment was carried out on 20 rats that were divided into two groups, a control group (n = 10) and an EESD group (n = 10). All the rats underwent a perforator flap surgery, after which post-operative abdominal compressions of EESD were given to the EESD group for seven days, while the control group received saline. Flap survival percentages were determined after seven days, and were found to be significantly higher in the EESD group than in the control group. Results of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) showed that perforator flaps in the EESD group had higher perfusion values than those of the control group. The flap tissues were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, followed by immunohistochemical evaluation. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression and micro-vessel development markedly increased in the EESD group, while malondialdehyde (MDA) levels decreased. This is the first study to investigate the effect of sanguis draconis on perforator flap survival. Our results demonstrate that sanguis draconis can improve perforator flap survival in rats by promoting microvessel regeneration and blood perfusion.
Improvement of Peptide-Based Tumor Immunotherapy Using pH-Sensitive Fusogenic Polymer-Modified Liposomes
Authors: Yoshizaki Yuta , Yuba Eiji , Komatsu Toshihiro , Udaka Keiko , Harada Atsushi , Kono Kenji
Published: September 2016

To establish peptide vaccine-based cancer immunotherapy, we investigated the improvement of antigenic peptides by encapsulation with pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-modified liposomes for induction of antigen-specific immunity. The liposomes were prepared by modification of egg yolk phosphatidylcholine and l-dioleoyl phosphatidylethanolamine with 3-methyl-glutarylated hyperbranched poly(glycidol) (MGlu-HPG) and were loaded with antigenic peptides derived from ovalbumin (OVA) OVA-I (SIINFEKL), and OVA-II (PSISQAVHAAHAEINEAPβA), which bind, respectively, to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and class II molecules on dendritic cell (DCs). The peptide-loaded liposomes were taken up efficiently by DCs. The peptides were delivered into their cytosol. Administration of OVA-I-loaded MGlu-HPG-modified liposomes to mice bearing OVA-expressing E.G7-OVA tumors induced the activation of OVA-specific CTLs much more efficiently than the administration of free OVA-I peptide did. Mice strongly rejected E.G7-OVA cells after immunization with OVA-I peptide-loaded MGlu-HPG liposomes, although mice treated with free OVA-I peptide only slightly rejected the cells. Furthermore, efficient suppression of tumor volume was observed when tumor-bearing mice were immunized with OVA-I-peptide-loaded liposomes. Immunization with OVA-II-loaded MGlu-HPG-modified liposomes exhibited much lower tumor-suppressive effects. Results indicate that MGlu-HPG liposomes might be useful for improvement of CTL-inducing peptides for efficient cancer immunotherapy.
Antiprotozoal and Antiglycation Activities of Sesquiterpene Coumarins from Ferula narthex Exudate
Authors: Amin Adnan , Tuenter Emmy , Cos Paul , Maes Louis , Exarchou Vassiliki , Apers Sandra , Pieters Luc
Published: September 2016

The exudate of Ferula narthex Boiss. (Apiaceae) is widely used in the Indian subcontinent as a spice and because of its health effects. Six sesquiterpene coumarins have been isolated from this exudate: feselol, ligupersin A, asacoumarin A, 8′-O-acetyl-asacoumarin A, 10′R-karatavacinol and 10′R-acetyl-karatavacinol. Based on its use in infectious and diabetic conditions, the isolated constituents were evaluated for antimicrobial and antiglycation activities. Some compounds showed activity against protozoal parasites, asacoumarin A being the most active one against Plasmodium falciparum K1 (IC50 1.3 μM). With regard to antiglycation activity, in the BSA-glucose test, ligupersin A displayed the highest activity (IC50 0.41 mM), being more active than the positive control aminiguanidine (IC50 1.75 mM). In the BSA-MGO assay, the highest activity was shown by 8′-O-acetyl-asacoumarin A (IC50 1.03 mM), being less active than aminoguanidine (IC50 0.15 mM). Hence, the antiglycation activity of the isolated constituents was due to both oxidative and non-oxidative modes of inhibition.
Metal Criticality Determination for Australia, the US, and the Planet—Comparing 2008 and 2012 Results
Authors: Ciacci Luca , Nuss Philip , Reck Barbara , Werner T. , Graedel T.
Published: September 2016

Episodic supply shortages of metals and unsettling predictions of potential supply constraints in the future have led to a series of recent criticality evaluations. This study applies a consistent criticality methodology to the United States, Australia, and to the global level for both 2008 and 2012. It is the first time that criticality assessments are presented for Australia, a country that contrasts with the United States in terms of its mineral deposits and metal use characteristics. We use the Yale criticality methodology, which measures Supply Risk (SR), Environmental Implications (EI), and Vulnerability to Supply Restriction (VSR) to derive criticality assessments for five major metals (Al, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn) and for indium (In). We find only modest changes in SR between 2008 and 2012 at both country and global levels; these changes are due to revisions in resource estimates. At the country level, Australia’s VSR for Ni, Cu, and Zn is 23%–33% lower than that for the United States, largely because of Australia’s abundant domestic resources. At the global level, SR is much higher for In, Ni, Cu, and Zn than for Al and Fe as a consequence of SR’s longer time horizon and anticipated supply/demand constraints. The results emphasize the dynamic nature of criticality and its variance between countries and among metals.
Caveats Concerning the Use of SRTM DEM Version 4.1 (CGIAR-CSI)
Authors: Merryman Boncori John
Published: September 2016

This paper provides some recommendations concerning the use of version 4.1 of the near-global 3 arcsec Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Digital Elevation Model (DEM) distributed by the Consortium for Spatial Information (CGIAR-CSI). This product is considered by most users to be a void-filled version of the finished grade NASA SRTM DEM. However, in non-void areas, these DEMs can exhibit relative geolocation shifts and spatially correlated elevation differences up to tens of meters, the location and extent of which depends on the geographical location and on the download mirror of the version 4.1 product. Such differences are found to be partly due to changes introduced by NASA SRTM version 2.1, with respect to NASA SRTM version 2.0, on which CGIAR-CSI version 4.1 is based, and partly to processing and/or annotation errors affecting the CGIAR-CSI version 4.1 DEMs.
Micro-Doppler Signal Time-Frequency Algorithm Based on STFRFT
Authors: Pang Cunsuo , Han Yan , Hou Huiling , Liu Shengheng , Zhang Nan
Published: September 2016

This paper proposes a time-frequency algorithm based on short-time fractional order Fourier transformation (STFRFT) for identification of a complicated movement targets. This algorithm, consisting of a STFRFT order-changing and quick selection method, is effective in reducing the computation load. A multi-order STFRFT time-frequency algorithm is also developed that makes use of the time-frequency feature of each micro-Doppler component signal. This algorithm improves the estimation accuracy of time-frequency curve fitting through multi-order matching. Finally, experiment data were used to demonstrate STFRFT’s performance in micro-Doppler time-frequency analysis. The results validated the higher estimate accuracy of the proposed algorithm. It may be applied to an LFM (Linear frequency modulated) pulse radar, SAR (Synthetic aperture radar), or ISAR (Inverse synthetic aperture radar), for improving the probability of target recognition.
Real-Time Performance of Mechatronic PZT Module Using Active Vibration Feedback Control
Authors: Aggogeri Francesco , Borboni Alberto , Merlo Angelo , Pellegrini Nicola , Ricatto  Raffaele
Published: September 2016

This paper proposes an innovative mechatronic piezo-actuated module to control vibrations in modern machine tools. Vibrations represent one of the main issues that seriously compromise the quality of the workpiece. The active vibration control (AVC) device is composed of a host part integrated with sensors and actuators synchronized by a regulator; it is able to make a self-assessment and adjust to alterations in the environment. In particular, an innovative smart actuator has been designed and developed to satisfy machining requirements during active vibration control. This study presents the mechatronic model based on the kinematic and dynamic analysis of the AVC device. To ensure a real time performance, a H2-LQG controller has been developed and validated by simulations involving a machine tool, PZT actuator and controller models. The Hardware in the Loop (HIL) architecture is adopted to control and attenuate the vibrations. A set of experimental tests has been performed to validate the AVC module on a commercial machine tool. The feasibility of the real time vibration damping is demonstrated and the simulation accuracy is evaluated.
A Human Serum-Based Enzyme-Free Continuous Glucose Monitoring Technique Using a Needle-Type Bio-Layer Interference Sensor
Authors: Seo Dongmin , Paek Sung-Ho , Oh Sangwoo , Seo Sungkyu , Paek Se-Hwan
Published: September 2016

The incidence of diabetes is continually increasing, and by 2030, it is expected to have increased by 69% and 20% in underdeveloped and developed countries, respectively. Therefore, glucose sensors are likely to remain in high demand in medical device markets. For the current study, we developed a needle-type bio-layer interference (BLI) sensor that can continuously monitor glucose levels. Using dialysis procedures, we were able to obtain hypoglycemic samples from commercial human serum. These dialysis-derived samples, alongside samples of normal human serum were used to evaluate the utility of the sensor for the detection of the clinical interest range of glucose concentrations (70–200 mg/dL), revealing high system performance for a wide glycemic state range (45–500 mg/dL). Reversibility and reproducibility were also tested over a range of time spans. Combined with existing BLI system technology, this sensor holds great promise for use as a wearable online continuous glucose monitoring system for patients in a hospital setting.
Magnetic Particles Coupled to Disposable Screen Printed Transducers for Electrochemical Biosensing
Authors: Yáñez-Sedeño Paloma , Campuzano Susana , Pingarrón José
Published: September 2016

Ultrasensitive biosensing is currently a growing demand that has led to the development of numerous strategies for signal amplification. In this context, the unique properties of magnetic particles; both of nano- and micro-size dimensions; have proved to be promising materials to be coupled with disposable electrodes for the design of cost-effective electrochemical affinity biosensing platforms. This review addresses, through discussion of selected examples, the way that nano- and micro-magnetic particles (MNPs and MMPs; respectively) have contributed significantly to the development of electrochemical affinity biosensors, including immuno-, DNA, aptamer and other affinity modes. Different aspects such as type of magnetic particles, assay formats, detection techniques, sensitivity, applicability and other relevant characteristics are discussed. Research opportunities and future development trends in this field are also considered.
Design of a Piezoelectric Accelerometer with High Sensitivity and Low Transverse Effect
Authors: Tian Bian , Liu Hanyue , Yang Ning , Zhao Yulong , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: September 2016

In order to meet the requirements of cable fault detection, a new structure of piezoelectric accelerometer was designed and analyzed in detail. The structure was composed of a seismic mass, two sensitive beams, and two added beams. Then, simulations including the maximum stress, natural frequency, and output voltage were carried out. Moreover, comparisons with traditional structures of piezoelectric accelerometer were made. To verify which vibration mode is the dominant one on the acceleration and the space between the mass and glass, mode analysis and deflection analysis were carried out. Fabricated on an n-type single crystal silicon wafer, the sensor chips were wire-bonged to printed circuit boards (PCBs) and simply packaged for experiments. Finally, a vibration test was conducted. The results show that the proposed piezoelectric accelerometer has high sensitivity, low resonance frequency, and low transverse effect.
HOW ARE PUBLIC SPACES SUSTAINING CULTURAL IDENTITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF CHINA’S INCREASINGLY GLOBALLY FOCUSED URBAN DEVELOPMENTS: USING A CASE STUDY OF PUTUO IN SHANGHAI
Authors: Choi Hee Sun (Sunny)
Published: September 2016

This paper explores what it means for a public space to embody the city within rapid urban change in contemporary urban development and how a space can accomplish this by embracing the culture of the city, its people and its places, using the particular case of Putuo, Shanghai in China. The paper employs mapping and empirical surveys to learn how the local community use the act of communal dance in everyday public spaces of this neighborhood, and seeks not to ﬁnd generalizable rules for how humans comprehend a city, but instead to better understand how local inhabitants and their chosen activities can influence their built environment. The findings from this emphasize the importance to identify how public spaces can help to define cities with China’s emerging global presence, whilst addressing the ways in which local needs and perspectives can be preserved.
THE CHALLENGES OF PLANNING AND DESIGNING URBAN GREEN NETWORKS IN SCANDINAVIAN AND CHINESE CITIES
Authors: Xiu Na , Ignatieva Maria , Bosch Cecil Konijnendijk van den
Published: September 2016

During the 20th century, a variety of concepts were developed aimed to provide frameworks for green space planning and design in urban areas. Both China and Scandinavia represent important experience in green space planning and management. However, none of the current concepts is generated based on the explicit combination of both a Western and Eastern context. In this paper, based on the analysis of various green space planning concepts and their development, a novel “hybrid’ approach is introduced. This “Green Network’ concept focuses on green and blue connectivity in urban areas and comprises the network of green spaces and the surface water system within and around settlements. The concept offers a platform for integrating best practices from Scandinavian and Chinese open space planning and can provide a guiding tool for sustainable urban development.
THE PROBLEMS OF HIGH-RISE CONSTRUCTION IN ST. PETERSBURG
Authors: Lavrov Leonid , Perov Fedor
Published: September 2016

St. Petersburg’s strict limit on building height existed until the 1960s. A small loosening of restrictions occurred only at the end of the 19th century, which formed the “horizontal” silhouette of the city with a few spire accents, domes and factory chimneys. In the USSR during the 1960s, a multi-storey building system began to develop. As this inclusive unification spread throughout Leningrad, 9-storey, 12-storey, 16-storey residential buildings became widespread. The population’s attitude to them was quite critical. When Russia became a market economy country, St. Petersburg began to actively feel the influence of globalization in the architectural and construction industries. A consequence of the development of new technologies has become the mass construction of residential buildings that are 22–25 floors in height (including buildings closely located to the historical center). Fire safety issues were discovered, and problems concerning soil conditions were uncovered. The high buildings’ influence on the protected center landscapes were very negatively received by citizens. In spite of the approved building regulations, there are many problematic situations; for example, the project of a 400-meter skyscraper next to the monument of Smolniy Cathedral provoked many debates in the city.
PLASMA-FIELD COUPLING AT SMALL LENGTH SCALES IN SOLAR WIND NEAR 1 au
Authors: Livadiotis G. , Desai M. I.
Published: September 2016

In collisionless plasmas such as the solar wind, the coupling between plasma constituents and the embedded magnetic field occurs on various temporal and spatial scales, and is primarily responsible for the transfer of energy between waves and particles. Recently, it was shown that the transfer of energy between solar wind plasma particles and waves is governed by a new and unique relationship: the ratio between the magnetosonic energy and the plasma frequency is constant, E
ms/ω
pl ∼ ℏ*. This paper examines the variability and substantial departure of this ratio from ℏ* observed at ∼1 au, which is caused by a dispersion of fast magnetosonic (FMS) waves. In contrast to the efficiently transferred energy in the fast solar wind, the lower efficiency of the slow solar wind can be caused by this dispersion, whose relation and characteristics are derived and studied. In summary, we show that (i) the ratio E
ms/ω
pl transitions continuously from the slow to the fast solar wind, tending toward the constant ℏ*; (ii) the transition is more efficient for larger thermal, Alfvén, or FMS speeds; (iii) the fast solar wind is almost dispersionless, characterized by quasi-constant values of the FMS speed, while the slow wind is subject to dispersion that is less effective for larger wind or magnetosonic speeds; and (iv) the constant ℏ* is estimated with the best known precision, ℏ* ≈ (1.160 ± 0.083) × 10−22 Js.
A COMPARISON OF FLARE FORECASTING METHODS. I. RESULTS FROM THE “ALL-CLEAR” WORKSHOP
Authors: Barnes G. , Leka K. D. , Schrijver C. J. , Colak T. , Qahwaji R. , Ashamari O. W. , Yuan Y. , Zhang J. , McAteer R. T. J. , Bloomfield D. S. , Higgins P. A. , Gallagher P. T. , Falconer D. A. , Georgoulis M. K. , Wheatland M. S. , Balch C. , Dunn T. , Wagner E. L.
Published: September 2016

Solar flares produce radiation that can have an almost immediate effect on the near-Earth environment, making it crucial to forecast flares in order to mitigate their negative effects. The number of published approaches to flare forecasting using photospheric magnetic field observations has proliferated, with varying claims about how well each works. Because of the different analysis techniques and data sets used, it is essentially impossible to compare the results from the literature. This problem is exacerbated by the low event rates of large solar flares. The challenges of forecasting rare events have long been recognized in the meteorology community, but have yet to be fully acknowledged by the space weather community. During the interagency workshop on “all clear” forecasts held in Boulder, CO in 2009, the performance of a number of existing algorithms was compared on common data sets, specifically line-of-sight magnetic field and continuum intensity images from the Michelson Doppler Imager, with consistent definitions of what constitutes an event. We demonstrate the importance of making such systematic comparisons, and of using standard verification statistics to determine what constitutes a good prediction scheme. When a comparison was made in this fashion, no one method clearly outperformed all others, which may in part be due to the strong correlations among the parameters used by different methods to characterize an active region. For M-class flares and above, the set of methods tends toward a weakly positive skill score (as measured with several distinct metrics), with no participating method proving substantially better than climatological forecasts.
HOW AGN JETS HEAT THE INTRACLUSTER MEDIUM—INSIGHTS FROM HYDRODYNAMIC SIMULATIONS
Authors: Karen Yang H.-Y. , Reynolds Christopher S.
Published: September 2016

Feedback from active galactic nuclei (AGNs) is believed to prevent catastrophic cooling in galaxy clusters. However, how the feedback energy is transformed into heat, and how the AGN jets heat the intracluster medium (ICM) isotropically, still remain elusive. In this work, we gain insights into the relative importance of different heating mechanisms using three-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations including cold gas accretion and momentum-driven jet feedback, which are the most successful models to date in terms of reproducing the properties of cool cores. We find that there is net heating within two “jet cones” (within ∼30° from the axis of jet precession) where the ICM gains entropy by shock heating and mixing with the hot thermal gas within bubbles. Outside the jet cones, the ambient gas is heated by weak shocks, but not enough to overcome radiative cooling, therefore, forming a “reduced” cooling flow. Consequently, the cluster core is in a process of “gentle circulation” over billions of years. Within the jet cones, there is significant adiabatic cooling as the gas is uplifted by buoyantly rising bubbles; outside the cones, energy is supplied by the inflow of already-heated gas from the jet cones as well as adiabatic compression as the gas moves toward the center. In other words, the fluid dynamics self-adjusts such that it compensates and transports the heat provided by the AGN, and hence no fine-tuning of the heating profile of any process is necessary. Throughout the cluster evolution, turbulent energy is only at the percent level compared to gas thermal energy, and thus turbulent heating is not the main source of heating in our simulation.
Current Telerehabilitation Research With Older Adults at Home: An Integrative Review
Authors: Reeder Blaine , Chung Jane , Stevens-Lapsley Jennifer
Published: September 2016

Increased demand for in-home rehabilitation services for older adults may be met through telerehabilitation information and communication technologies. The current article reports the results of an integrative literature review summarizing current in-home telerehabilitation research with older adults. Nine studies from 2006–2015 are included. Six studies employed a remote therapist using real-time video. Three studies used text- or web-based messaging and electronic surveys. Six studies relied on dial-up Internet service and the remaining three studies used broad-band Internet connections. Future research should address (a) in-home and wearable sensing technologies to monitor health and (b) mobile devices, such as tablet computers, to collect patient self-reports. Interoperable platforms are needed to integrate disparate devices and support continuity of care across post-acute care settings. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 42
(10), 15–20.]
Development and Testing of the Healthy Work Environment Inventory: A Reliable Tool for Assessing Work Environment Health and Satisfaction
Authors: Clark Cynthia M. , Sattler Victoria P. , Barbosa-Leiker Celestina
Published: September 2016

Background:

Fostering healthy work environments that enhance job satisfaction and reflect high levels of employee engagement and productivity is imperative for all organizations. This is especially true for health care organizations where unhealthy work conditions can lead to poor patient outcomes.

Method:

A convenience sample of 520 nursing faculty and practice-based nurses in the United States participated in a study to test the psychometric properties of the Healthy Work Environment Inventory (HWEI).

Results:

A factor analysis and other reliability analyses support the use of the HWEI as a valid and reliable instrument to measure perceptions of work environment health.

Conclusion:

The HWEI is a 20-item psychometrically sound instrument to measure perceptions of the health of the work environment. It may be completed either as an individual exercise or by all members of a team to compare perceptions of work environment health, to determine areas of strength and improvement, and to form the basis for interviewing. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(10):555–562.]
Use of iPads to Decrease Faculty Workload
Authors: Tidwell Sarah , Hess Kari , Peek Gina
Published: September 2016

Background:

Multiple faculty were present during a simulation for competency assessments of students, thus creating an increased workload and fatigue. Faculty used technology to reduce the workload and maintain interrater reliability, at little to no cost.

Method:

The use of high-fidelity simulators, tablet computers, and a university video platform were used to record student competency assessments. One faculty member could perform the assessment, but other course faculty could review the results.

Results:

Seventy-four competency assessments were recorded, and faculty determined that the tablet provided a viable and inexpensive method to record the competency assessments. The ability for faculty to review the recordings helped in maintaining rater and interrater reliability and a method for student remediation. Time spent in the competency assessment, especially during evening hours, was decreased.

Conclusion:

A tablet computer and video platform provided an inexpensive method to reduce faculty contact hours and maintain interrater reliability. It also provided a valuable method to allow students to review their own performance for remediation. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2016;55(10):590–591.]
Development and Implementation of an Advanced Therapeutic Communication Course: An Interprofessional Collaboration
Authors: Schwind Jasna K. , McCay Elizabeth , Metersky Kateryna , Martin Jennifer
Published: September 2016

Background:

Interprofessional education and practice have been gaining recognition during the past decade. However, little has been written on person-centered care (PCC) within interprofessional practice and how it could be taught to interprofessional learners.

Method:

A key element of PCC is therapeutic communication. Consequently, a group of interprofessional faculty innovated a graduate-level elective course on advanced therapeutic communication where interprofessional learners together explore PCC within interprofessional care. The course curriculum is underpinned by mindfulness in education, nonviolent communication, and reflective writing. Various teaching– learning strategies, including creative self-expression, are also used.

Results:

The created competencies and conceptual framework may be used by other educators in creating a similar interprofessional course. Interprofessional learners gained a deeper and broader understanding of PCC in interprofessional care.

Conclusion:

On the basis of this undertaking, the faculty gained a deeper appreciation for interprofessional collaboration in the development of innovative educational methodologies that advance interprofessional teamwork in education and professional practice. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(10):592–597.]
Management of Pediatric Aphakic Glaucoma With Vitrectomy and Tube Shunts
Authors: Elshatory Yasser M. , Gauger Elizabeth H. , Kwon Young H. , Alward Wallace L. M. , Boldt H. Culver , Russell Stephen R. , Mahajan Vinit B.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To review the impact of vitrectomy and tube shunts on mean intraocular pressure (IOP) and number of glaucoma medications in pediatric aphakic glaucoma.

Methods:

A retrospective review of pediatric patients who underwent combined vitrectomy and glaucoma tube shunt surgery for aphakic glaucoma was conducted. Inclusion criteria were: age 18 years or younger, diagnosis of aphakic glaucoma, preoperative IOP data, and postoperative IOP data for at least 6 months. Mean IOP lowering at 1 year, number of glaucoma medications at 1 year, and surgical complications, including tube occlusion in the postoperative period, were noted.

Results:

The mean ± standard deviation preoperative IOP was 33.9 ± 10.6 mm Hg (range: 18 to 57 mm Hg) with a mean of three topical IOP-lowering medications. A total of 5 (36%) Ahmed and 9 (64%) Baerveldt tube shunts were placed. One of the Baerveldt tube shunt procedures was combined with revision of a traumatically dislocated tube. The mean IOP at 12 months postoperatively was 16.6 ± 5.8 mm Hg (range: 6 to 28 mm Hg;
P
< .01,
t
= 3.74,
df
= 13) with a mean of 2.3 glaucoma medications. There were no cases of tube occlusion, corneal decompensation, endophthalmitis, or retinal detachment over the 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusions:

Combined vitrectomy and placement of a glaucoma tube shunt can be safe and effective in lowering IOP based on mean IOP values and number of glaucoma medications at 1 year.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2016;53(6):339–343.]
Visual, Topographic, and Pachymetric Effects of Pediatric Corneal Collagen Cross-linking
Authors: Toprak Ibrahim , Yaylali Volkan , Yildirim Cem
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To evaluate the effects of pediatric corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) on corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), maximum keratometry (Kmax), and other Scheimpflug imaging system parameters during 2 years of follow-up.

Methods:

The records of 29 eyes of 29 pediatric patients who underwent unilateral CXL treatment for progressive keratoconus were reviewed. Changes in CDVA, Kmax, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, anterior chamber angle, pupil-center pachymetry, apical pachymetry, thinnest pachymetry, corneal volume, and topographic indices (index of surface variance [ISV], index of vertical asymmetry [IVA], index of height asymmetry [IHA], keratoconus index [KI], center keratoconus index [CKI], index of height decentration [IHD], and minimum radius of curvature [Rmin]) were analyzed among baseline and 1 and 2 years after the CXL treatment.

Results:

Mean CDVA and Kmax significantly improved from baseline at 1 year (−0.17 logMAR,
P
< .0001; −1.18 diopters [D],
P
= .012, respectively) and 2 years (−0.21 logMAR,
P
< .0001; −1.40 D,
P
= .001, respectively) after the CXL treatment. Anterior chamber parameters, corneal thicknesses, and corneal volume remained unchanged during the period following CXL (
P
> .05). Five of the seven Scheimpflug topographic indices (including ISV, KI, CKI, IHD, and Rmin) showed significant improvement after CXL between baseline and 2 years (
P
< .05).

Conclusions:

In pediatric patients with progressive keratoconus, CXL appears to be effective in improving CDVA, Kmax, and corneal topographic irregularity at 2 years' follow-up. However, long-term effects of CXL should be tested by further studies in pediatric keratoconus.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2017;54(2):84–89.]
Driving in Early-Stage Alzheimer's Disease: An Integrative Review of the Literature
Authors: Davis Rebecca L. , Ohman Jennifer M.
Published: September 2016

One of the most difficult decisions for individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) is when to stop driving. Because driving is a fundamental activity linked to socialization, independent functioning, and well-being, making the decision to stop driving is not easy. Cognitive decline in older adults can lead to getting lost while driving, difficulty detecting and avoiding hazards, as well as increased errors while driving due to compromised judgment and difficulty in making decisions. The purpose of the current literature review was to synthesize evidence regarding how individuals with early-stage AD, their families, and providers make determinations about driving safety, interventions to increase driving safety, and methods to assist cessation and coping for individuals with early-stage AD. The evidence shows that changes in driving ability start early and progress throughout the trajectory of AD. Some individuals with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage AD may be safe to drive for a period of time. Support groups aimed at helping with the transition have been shown to be helpful for individuals who stop driving. Research and practice must support interventions to help individuals maintain safety while driving, as well as cope with driving cessation.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2017; 10(2):86–100.]
Inner-product spaces for quantitative analysis of eyes and other optical systems
Authors: Harris William F. , Evans Tanya , Van Gool Radboud D.
Published: September 2016

Because dioptric power matrices of thin systems constitute a (three-dimensional) inner-product space, it is possible to define distances and angles in the space and so do quantitative analyses on dioptric power for thin systems. That includes astigmatic corneal powers and refractive errors. The purpose of this study is to generalise to thick systems. The paper begins with the ray transference of a system. Two 10-dimensional inner-product spaces are devised for the holistic quantitative analysis of the linear optical character of optical systems. One is based on the point characteristic and the other on the angle characteristic; the first has distances with the physical dimension L−1 and the second has the physical dimension L. A numerical example calculates the locations, distances from the origin and angles subtended at the origin in the 10-dimensional space for two arbitrary astigmatic eyes.
Oorsprong van die drievoudige struktuur van die Heidelbergse Kategismus
Authors: Dreyer Wim , Van Rensburg Antionette Janse
Published: September 2016

The Heidelberg Catechism was one of many catechisms that originated during the 16th-centuryReformation. It is also known that the authors of the Heidelberg Catechism made use of existingcatechisms. The content of 16th-century catechisms consisted mainly of the Decalogue, theApostolicum and the Lord’s Prayer. The Heidelberg Catechism starts with the famousintroduction, dealing with man’s only comfort, and in three sections with knowledge of our sinand misery, knowledge of our deliverance, and knowledge of how we should be grateful forour deliverance. This contribution points out that the threefold structure of the HeidelbergCatechism is not unique, but appeared in different ways in different catechisms of prominent16th-century reformers. It is also argued that the Heidelberg Catechism should be read againstLutheran and Calvinistic backgrounds. Finally, it is shown that the Heidelberg Catechismarticulated the basic Christian faith in such a beautiful and poignant manner that it stood thetest of time as a catechism and confession.
Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of the Gallbladder Detected on Fluorine 18-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography
Authors: Fakhri Asif Ali , Rodrigue Paul David , Fakhri Amena Fatima
Published: September 2016

Extramedullary plasmacytoma is rare in patients with diagnosed multiple myeloma. Soft tissue plasmacytoma of the gallbladder is particularly uncommon and has been described in only a handful of cases. Diagnosis of gallbladder plasmacytoma with fluorine 18-fluorodeoxyglucose (F18-FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) has not previously been reported. We present a 65-year-old female with a history of multiple myeloma who underwent a restaging F18-FDG-PET/CT which showed a focal area of hypermetabolic activity, corresponding to a nodular lesion within the posterior gallbladder wall. The patient underwent successful cholecystectomy, with surgical pathology revealing gallbladder plasmacytoma. A follow-up scan was negative for active malignancy. This is a novel case of gallbladder plasmacytoma diagnosed on whole-body F18-FDG PET/CT – thus demonstrating the clinical value of this imaging modality in staging, restaging, and surveillance for patients with multiple myeloma.
Arabian Red Sea coastal soils as potential mineral dust sources
Authors: Jish Prakash P. , Stenchikov Georgiy , Tao Weichun , Yapici Tahir , Warsama Bashir , Engelbrecht Johann P.
Published: September 2016

Abstract. Both Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and Spinning Enhanced Visible and InfraRed Imager (SEVIRI) satellite observations suggest that the narrow heterogeneous Red Sea coastal region is a frequent source of airborne dust that, because of its proximity, directly affects the Red Sea and coastal urban centers. The potential of soils to be suspended as airborne mineral dust depends largely on soil texture, moisture content and particle size distributions. Airborne dust inevitably carries the mineralogical and chemical signature of a parent soil. The existing soil databases are too coarse to resolve the small but important coastal region. The purpose of this study is to better characterize the mineralogical, chemical and physical properties of soils from the Arabian Red Sea coastal plain, which in turn will help to improve assessment of dust effects on the Red Sea, land environmental systems and urban centers. Thirteen surface soils from the hot-spot areas of windblown mineral dust along the Red Sea coastal plain were sampled for analysis. Analytical methods included optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), ion chromatography (IC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and laser particle size analysis (LPSA). We found that the Red Sea coastal soils contain major components of quartz and feldspar, as well as lesser but variable amounts of amphibole, pyroxene, carbonate, clays and micas, with traces of gypsum, halite, chlorite, epidote and oxides. The range of minerals in the soil samples was ascribed to the variety of igneous and metamorphic provenance rocks of the Arabian Shield forming the escarpment to the east of the Red Sea coastal plain. The analysis revealed that the samples contain compounds of nitrogen, phosphorus and iron that are essential nutrients to marine life. The analytical results from this study will provide a valuable input into dust emission models used in climate, marine ecology and air quality studies.