bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity analysis of the noise-induced oscillatory multistability in Higgins model of glycolysis
Authors: Ryashko Lev
Published: March 2018

A phenomenon of the noise-induced oscillatory multistability in glycolysis is studied. As a basic deterministic skeleton, we consider the two-dimensional Higgins model. The noise-induced generation of mixed-mode stochastic oscillations is studied in various parametric zones. Probabilistic mechanisms of the stochastic excitability of equilibria and noise-induced splitting of randomly forced cycles are analysed by the stochastic sensitivity function technique. A parametric zone of supersensitive Canard-type cycles is localized and studied in detail. It is shown that the generation of mixed-mode stochastic oscillations is accompanied by the noise-induced transitions from order to chaos.
Crises, noise, and tipping in the Hassell population model
Authors: Bashkirtseva Irina
Published: March 2018

We consider a problem of the analysis of the noise-induced tipping in population systems. To study this phenomenon, we use Hassell-type system with Allee effect as a conceptual model. A mathematical investigation of the tipping is connected with the analysis of the crisis bifurcations, both boundary and interior. In the parametric study of the abrupt changes in dynamics related to the noise-induced extinction and transition from order to chaos, the stochastic sensitivity function technique and confidence domains are used. The effectiveness of the suggested approach to detect early warnings of critical stochastic transitions is demonstrated.
Terahertz VRT spectroscopy of the water hexamer-d12 prism: Dramatic enhancement of bifurcation tunneling upon librational excitation
Authors: Cole William T. S. , Farrell James D. , Sheikh Akber A. , Yönder Öezlem , Fellers Raymond S. , Viant Mark R. , Wales David J. , Saykally Richard J.
Published: March 2018

Using diode laser vibration-rotation-tunneling spectroscopy near 15 Thz (500 cm−1), we have measured and assigned 142 transitions to three a-type librational subbands of the water hexamer-d12 prism. These subbands reveal dramatically enhanced (ca. 1000×) tunneling splittings relative to the ground state. This enhancement is in agreement with that observed for the water dimer, trimer, and pentamer in this same frequency region. The water prism tunneling motion has been predicted to potentially describe the motions of water in interfacial and confined environments; hence, the results presented here indicate that excitation of librational vibrations has a significant impact on the hydrogen bond dynamics in these macroscopic environments.
Note: Making tens of centimeter long uniform microfluidic channels using commercial glass pipette
Authors: Ou Neil , Lee Huang-Ming , Wu Jong-Ching
Published: March 2018

Producing microchannels with diameters between 10 and 20 μm and with lengths in the tens of centimeters is reported. The method can be modified to obtain diameters as narrow as 350 nm. Length-to-diameter aspect ratios that surpass 104 can be produced for a fraction of current production costs. The controllable channel is produced by applying a flame to the narrow end of a commercial pipette that is made from a soda-lime silicate. In combination with a pulling mechanism, applying heat to the composite material lengthens the pipette in a highly uniform way. Given that the materials and methods in this research are cost-effective when compared to femtosecond laser micromachining on 2D silicon-based surfaces, further research into producing microchannels from soda-lime silicates may revolutionize access to 3D controllable microchannels.
Research on cylindrical resonators’ damping asymmetry trimming method utilizing damping characteristic of piezoelectric electrodes
Authors: Sun Jiangkun , Tang Hong , Wu Yulie , Xi Xiang , Zhang Yongmeng , Wu Xuezhong
Published: March 2018

The damping asymmetry of cylindrical resonators is one of the major sources which result in the gyroscope’s drift. In this paper, a new approach for trimming the damping asymmetry of cylindrical resonators is proposed. The damping asymmetry trimming model is established to analyze the additional damping’s influences. Furthermore, piezoelectric electrodes’ effects on the cylindrical resonator’s damping characteristic are figured out through the finite element simulation. The procedures of this trimming method are also summarized based on theoretical analysis. At last, these theoretical analysis and simulation results are utilized to compensate the damping asymmetry of cylindrical resonators and the procedures of this trimming method are also summarized. Experiments are also implemented to verify this trimming method.
Evaporation-induced monolayer compression improves droplet interface bilayer formation using unsaturated lipids
Authors: Venkatesan Guru A. , Taylor Graham J. , Basham Colin M. , Brady Nathan G. , Collier C. Patrick , Sarles Stephen A.
Published: March 2018

In this article, we report on a new experimental methodology to enable reliable formation of droplet interface bilayer (DIB) model membranes with two types of unsaturated lipids that have proven difficult for creating stable DIBs. Through the implementation of a simple evaporation technique to condition the spontaneously assembled lipid monolayer around each droplet, we increased the success rates of DIB formation for two distinct unsaturated lipids, namely 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DOPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), from less than 10% to near 100%. Separately, using a pendant drop tensiometer, we learned that: (a) DOPC and POPC monolayers do not spontaneously assemble into their tightest possible configurations at an oil-water interface, and (b) reducing the surface area of a water droplet coated with a partially packed monolayer leads to a more tightly packed monolayer with an interfacial tension lower than that achieved by spontaneous assembly alone. We also estimated from Langmuir compression isotherms obtained for both lipids that the brief droplet evaporation procedure prior to DIB formation resulted in a 6%–16% reduction in area per lipid for DOPC and POPC, respectively. Finally, the increased success rates of formation for DOPC and POPC DIBs enabled quantitative characterization of unsaturated lipid membrane properties including electrical resistance, rupture potential, and specific capacitance.
On limitations of laser-induced fluorescence diagnostics for xenon ion velocity distribution function measurements in Hall thrusters
Authors: Romadanov I. , Raitses Y. , Diallo A. , Hara K. , Kaganovich I. D. , Smolyakov A.
Published: March 2018

Hall thruster operation is characterized by strong breathing oscillations of the discharge current, the plasma density, the temperature, and the electric field. Probe- and laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) diagnostics were used to measure temporal variations of plasma parameters and the xenon ion velocity distribution function (IVDF) in the near-field plasma plume in regimes with moderate (<18%) external modulations of applied DC discharge voltage at the frequency of the breathing mode. It was shown that the LIF signal collapses while the ion density at the same location is finite. The proposed explanation for this surprising result is based on a strong dependence of the excitation cross-section of metastables on the electron temperature. For large amplitudes of oscillations, the electron temperature at the minimum enters the region of very low cross-section (for the excitation of the xenon ions); thus, significantly reducing the production of metastable ions. Because the residence time of ions in the channel is generally shorter than the time scale of breathing oscillations, the density of the excited ions outside the thruster is low and they cannot be detected. In the range of temperature of oscillations, the ionization cross-section of xenon atoms remains sufficiently large to sustain the discharge. This finding suggests that the commonly used LIF diagnostic of xenon IVDF can be subject to large uncertainties in the regimes with significant oscillations of the electron temperature, or other plasma parameters.
Communication: Gas-phase structural isomer identification by Coulomb explosion of aligned molecules
Authors: Burt Michael , Amini Kasra , Lee Jason W. L. , Christiansen Lars , Johansen Rasmus R. , Kobayashi Yuki , Pickering James D. , Vallance Claire , Brouard Mark , Stapelfeldt Henrik
Published: March 2018

The gas-phase structures of four difluoroiodobenzene and two dihydroxybromobenzene isomers were identified by correlating the emission angles of atomic fragment ions created, following femtosecond laser-induced Coulomb explosion. The structural determinations were facilitated by confining the most polarizable axis of each molecule to the detection plane prior to the Coulomb explosion event using one-dimensional laser-induced adiabatic alignment. For a molecular target consisting of two difluoroiodobenzene isomers, each constituent structure could additionally be singled out and distinguished.
Computational model of gamma irradiation room at ININ
Authors: Rodríguez-Romo Suemi , Patlan-Cardoso Fernando , Ibáñez-Orozco Oscar , Vergara Martínez Francisco Javier
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we present a model of the gamma irradiation room at the National Institute of Nuclear Research (ININ is its acronym in Spanish) in Mexico to improve the use of physics in dosimetry for human protection. We deal with air-filled ionization chambers and scientific computing made in house and framed in both the GEANT4 scheme and our analytical approach to characterize the irradiation room. This room is the only secondary dosimetry facility in Mexico. Our aim is to optimize its experimental designs, facilities, and industrial applications of physical radiation. The computational results provided by our model are supported by all the known experimental data regarding the performance of the ININ gamma irradiation room and allow us to predict the values of the main variables related to this fully enclosed space to within an acceptable margin of error.
Soil erosion analysis by RUSLE and sediment yield models using remote sensing and GIS in Kelantan state, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Anees M. T. , Abdullah K. , Nawawi M. N. M. , Norulaini N. A. N. , Syakir M. I. , Omar A. K. M.
Published: March 2018

The present study used pixel-based soil erosion analysis through Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and a sediment yield model. The main motive of this study is to find soil erosion probability zones and accordingly prioritise watersheds using remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques in Kelantan state, Peninsular Malaysia. The catchment was divided into 82 watersheds and soil loss of the catchment was calculated. Soil loss and sediment yield were divided into five categories ranging from very low to very high. Maximum area of the very high soil-loss category was observed in uncultivated land and the maximum area of very low soil-loss category was in forest. Soil erosion probability zones were also divided into five categories in which 36.1% of the area experienced zero soil erosion and 20.1% and 17.8% represented very high and high probability zones respectively. The maximum very high and high probability zones were 61.6% and 28.5% of the watershed area respectively. Prioritisation was according to the area covered by very high and high soil erosion probability zones, which showed that out of 82 watersheds, two had the very high and high priority categories respectively. The overall results indicate that high rainfall and agricultural activities enhanced the soil erosion rate on steep slopes in the catchment. Pixel-based soil erosion analysis through remote sensing and GIS was a very effective tool in finding accurate causes of soil erosion. Furthermore, it was suggested that agricultural activities and deforestation should be stopped on steep slopes because of their contribution in increasing soil erosion.
Modeling environmentally mediated rotavirus transmission: The role of temperature and hydrologic factors
Authors: Kraay Alicia N. M. , Brouwer Andrew F. , Lin Nan , Collender Philip A. , Remais Justin V. , Eisenberg Joseph N. S.
Published: March 2018

Significance

Although rotavirus persists in water and its incidence varies with temperature, the potential role of waterborne transmission in explaining the observed seasonal pattern in low-income countries in the tropics has thus far been neglected. Our analysis suggests that water can affect incidence for larger communities that draw water from slow-moving or stagnant sources and is likely most important in cooler seasons. Water can also spread outbreaks between communities, even when environmental transmission cannot sustain outbreaks. Our model may help explain temperature–incidence associations found in prior meta-analyses in the tropics, where humidity is high year-round, and shows that the effect of temperature on risk depends on local hydrologic conditions. These findings help explain why the effect of temperature might be context specific.
Post‐activation potentiation (PAP) in endurance sports: A review
Authors: Boullosa Daniel , Del Rosso Sebastian , Behm David G. , Foster Carl
Published: March 2018

While there is strong support of the usefulness of post‐activation potentiation (PAP) phenomenon in power demanding sports, the role that PAP could play in endurance sports has received less attention. The aim of this review is to present evidence for a better understanding of PAP in endurance athletes; and to discuss the physiological basis and methodological aspects necessary for better practices and designing further studies. A search for relevant articles on PAP and endurance trained athletes was carried out using Medline and ISI Web of Knowledge databases. Twenty‐two studies were included in the review. The current evidence suggests the possible influence of PAP for performance enhancement after appropriate conditioning activities during warm up. Evaluation of PAP responses during testing, training and competition may be also important for athletes monitoring. There are many unresolved questions about the optimum load parameters for benefiting from PAP in both training and competition; and the role that PAP may exert for optimal performance while interacting with central and peripheral factors associated with muscle fatigue. Further studies should elucidate the association between PAP responses and long‐term adaptations in endurance athletes.
Physiological implications of preparing for a natural male bodybuilding competition
Authors: Mitchell Lachlan , Slater Gary , Hackett Daniel , Johnson Nathan , O'connor Helen
Published: March 2018

This study aimed to describe the body composition and physiological changes which take place during the in‐season and recovery periods of a group of natural bodybuilders. Natural male bodybuilders (n = 9) were assessed 16 (PRE16), 8 (PRE8), and 1 (PRE1) week(s) before, and 4 (POST4) weeks after a bodybuilding competition. Assessments included body composition, resting metabolic rate (RMR), serum hormones, and 7‐day weighed food and training diaries. Change in parameters was assessed using repeated‐measures analysis of variance. Dietary protein intake remained high throughout the study period (2.8–3.1 g kg−1 d−1). Fat mass (FM) was significantly reduced from PRE16 to PRE1 (8.8 ± 3.1 vs. 5.3 ± 2.4 kg, P < .01). There was a small decrease in lean mass (LM) from PRE8 to PRE1 (71.8 ± 9.1 vs. 70.9 ± 9.1 kg, P < .05). No changes in RMR were observed (P > .05). Large reductions in total and free testosterone (16.4 ± 4.4 vs. 10.1 ± 3.6 nmol L−1, P < .05; 229.3 ± 72.4 vs. 116.8 ± 76.9 pmol L−1, P < .05), and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) (27.0 ± 7.7 vs. 19.9 ± 7.6 nmol L−1, P < .05) occurred between PRE16 and PRE1. LM and IGF‐1 increased from PRE1 to POST4 (70.9 ± 9.1 vs. 72.5 ± 8.5 kg, P < .05; 19.9 ± 7.6 vs. 25.4 ± 9.3 nmol L−1, P < .05). Despite substantial reductions in FM, participants maintained almost all of their LM. The reduction in anabolic hormone concentration is likely attributable to the prolonged negative energy balance, despite a high dietary protein intake.
Issues and challenges of teaching communicative English in professional institutions: the case of northern India
Authors: Srishti Richa
Published: March 2018

The present article focuses on the issues and challenges related to teaching and learning Communicative English in Engineering and other professional institutions (tier-2 and tier-3 cities) in the northern belt of India. It attempts to explore various problems faced by the teachers as well as the students. It also examines the ongoing efforts to develop English communication skills of the students. The L1, L2, and L3 scenario has been discussed in detail. Bilingualism and multilingualism are investigated further. It also offers feasible solutions for making English teaching and learning more effective. Though the article only considers the northern belt, it can be applied to other belts too, provided the socioeconomic conditions are similar.
The Evaluation Method of the Lightning Strike on Transmission Lines Aiming at Power Grid Reliability
Authors: Wen Jianfeng , Wu Jianwei , Huang Liandong , Geng Yinan , Yu zhanqing
Published: March 2018

Lightning protection of power system focuses on reducing the flashover rate, only distinguishing by the voltage level, without considering the functional differences between the transmission lines, and being lack of analysis the effect on the reliability of power grid. This will lead lightning protection design of general transmission lines is surplus but insufficient for key lines. In order to solve this problem, the analysis method of lightning striking on transmission lines for power grid reliability is given. Full wave process theory is used to analyze the lightning back striking; the leader propagation model is used to describe the process of shielding failure of transmission lines. The index of power grid reliability is introduced and the effect of transmission line fault on the reliability of power system is discussed in detail.
anexVis: visual analytics framework for analysis of RNA expression
Authors: Tran Diem-Trang , Zhang Tian , Stutsman Ryan , Might Matthew , Desai Umesh R , Kuberan Balagurunathan
Published: March 2018

Although RNA expression data are accumulating at a remarkable speed, gaining insights from them still requires laborious analyses, which hinder many biological and biomedical researchers. This report introduces a visual analytics framework that applies several well-known visualization techniques to leverage understanding of an RNA expression dataset. Our analyses on glycosaminoglycan-related genes have demonstrated the broad application of this tool, anexVis (analysis of RNA expression), to advance the understanding of tissue-specific glycosaminoglycan regulation and functions, and potentially other biological pathways.

Availability and implementation

The application is accessible at https://anexvis.chpc.utah.edu/, source codes deposited on GitHub.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
A177 BIRTH COHORT SCREENING FOR HEPATITIS C IN AN OUTPATIENT ENDOSCOPY UNIT: A PILOT STUDY
Authors: Rai M , Lowe C , McKay J , Joyce L , Hookey L , Flemming J A
Published: March 2018

Background

Chronic hepatitis C (HCV) is a curable asymptomatic infection that can progress to liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma if left untreated. The Canadian Liver Foundation (CLF) recommends one-time HCV screening in all Canadians born from 1945–1975. A large proportion of outpatient endoscopic procedures are for colon cancer screening in this birth cohort providing an opportunity for HCV screening and linkage to HCV care.

Aims

We aimed to assess the feasibility of developing a targeted birth-cohort HCV screening program in the outpatient endoscopy setting.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study of patients born from 1945–1975 presenting to the outpatient endoscopy unit at Hotel Dieu Hospital in Kingston, Ontario in September, 2016. Patients were scheduled for upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, and/or sigmoidoscopy. All patients were given written information on HCV and the CLF recommendation of birth-cohort screening. Patients were then asked to complete a short survey regarding previous HCV screening and acceptance of being screened during their endoscopy visit.

Results

During a 30 day period, 95% (223/235) of eligible patients completed the survey. The cohort was 53% female with a median age of 59 years (IQR 52–66 years). 83% had either never been screened or were unaware of their HCV status. Overall, 87% of participants would be accepting of HCV screening during their endoscopy visit, 9% would not accept screening and 4% stated they were unsure. These results suggest that almost 2,000 patients could be targeted for HCV screening in the endoscopy unit annually.

Conclusions

Most patients born from 1945–1975 presenting for outpatient endoscopy have not been screened for HCV but are accepting of screening during their procedural visit. This identifies a target population for the development of an HCV screening program to increase HCV identification and facilitate linkage to HCV care.

Funding Agencies

None
A328 FACTORS PREDICTIVE OF MALIGNANCY IN PATIENTS WITH BILIARY BRUSHINGS OBTAINED BY ERCP
Authors: Kulai T , Arnason T , Filter E , Gruchy S E
Published: March 2018

Aims

Biliary brushings for cytology obtained during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are the most commonly used method of evaluating patients with biliary strictures for potential underlying malignancy. Patients generally proceed to a pancreatoduodenectomy if there is concern for pancreatic or peripancreatic neoplasm and the patient is an operable candidate. Some patients undergo pancreatoduodenectomy for what is eventually determined to be benign disease. We sought to analyze ERCP brushings to determine predictive factors for malignancy at our centre and whether brushing results influenced decision for pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

Retrospective review was conducted on adult patients who underwent ERCP with biliary duct brushings for cytology at the QEII Health Sciences Centre in Halifax, NS, from 2013–2014. Bile duct brushing cytology reports were identified by electronic search of hospital pathology archives (Cerner Millenium, Cerner, Kansas City, MO). Information on gender, age, symptoms, biliary stricture location and endoscopic impression, presence of pancreatic mass, cytologic impression of brushings, CA 19-9 level, CEA level, surgical intervention and clinical outcome was collected. Abnormal cytology was defined as samples reported as suggestive of malignancy or positive for malignant cells. Basic descriptive statistics and qualitative analysis were performed.

Results

A total of 185 ERCP patients had biliary brushings for cytology during the study time period. Patients who received biliary brushings were more likely to be between ages 60 to 79 (56%) with a mean age of 66. Presenting symptoms included elevated liver enzymes (82%), jaundice (75%) and pain (48%). Location of biliary stricture, age and gender were not associated with abnormal cytology results. Endoscopic impression of the biliary stricture was malignant in 53% of cases and associated with increased likelihood of abnormal cytology (39/92; p < 0.001). Pancreatic mass on imaging, seen in 38%, was associated with abnormal cytology (25/69, p = 0.001). Elevated CEA, but not CA 19-9, was associated with abnormal cytology (13/23; p = 0.008). Patients who received a pancreatoduodenectomy were not more likely to have abnormal cytology (5/18, p = 0.051). Patients eventually diagnosed with malignancy were more likely to have abnormal cytology on biliary brushing (49/120, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Age, gender, location of stricture and elevated CA 19-9 were not associated with abnormal cytology suggestive of malignancy. The presence of a pancreatic mass, elevated CEA and eventual diagnosis of cancer were associated with abnormal cytology. Patients who received a pancreatoduodenectomy were not more likely to have abnormal cytology, which may reflect the scarcity of surgical candidates due to advanced disease at diagnosis.

Funding Agencies

None
Electrocochleography Results in Patients With Bilateral Vestibular Paresis and Sound- or Pressure-Induced Horizontal Nystagmus
Authors: Heidenreich Katherine D. , Pitts Crystal M. , Angster Kristen , Zajac Trevor , Havard Shaleta , Melendez Tori L. , Kileny Paul R.
Published: March 2018

Objective:

To describe the electrocochleography (ECochG) findings in patients with bilateral vestibular paresis and sound- and/or pressure-induced horizontal nystagmus.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Setting:

Tertiary care center.

Patients:

Three adult patients with bilateral vestibular paresis and sound- and/or pressure-induced horizontal nystagmus were evaluated from 2012 to 2016.

Main Outcome Measure:

All patients underwent ECochG, vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) testing, bithermal caloric testing, rotary chair testing, audiometric testing, and temporal bone computed tomography (CT). For ECochG, the summating potential (SP) to action potential (AP) ratio was determined.

Results:

All patients had normal temporal bone CT, reduced caloric responses bilaterally, decreased gain on rotary chair, and abnormal ECochG. For two subjects, the SP/AP was elevated bilaterally. One subject had unilateral SP/AP elevation. Cervical VEMPs were present in all subjects, but at reduced thresholds in two subjects.

Conclusion:

SP/AP elevation was found in all three patients with the syndrome of bilateral vestibular paresis and/or sound- or pressure-induced horizontal nystagmus. As the etiology of this syndrome remains unclear, understanding the basis for abnormal ECochG may shed insight into the pathophysiology of this condition.
Leadership Influence
Authors: Shillam Casey R. , MacLean Lola
Published: March 2018

As the largest segment of the health care workforce, nurses have the greatest potential for advancing systems and services to improve health care delivery in the United States. This article presents a framework for nurse administrators to use in developing direct care nurses in their leadership influence competency as a means of increasing their advocacy potential. A systematic review resulted in establishing a nurse leadership influence framework based on the Kouzes and Posner leadership model. The framework includes leadership competencies by nursing professional organizations and was validated by 2 national nurse leader focus groups. Nurse administrators have the opportunity to adopt an evidence-based leadership influence framework to ensure development of advocacy competency in direct care nurses. The impact of nurse administrators systematically adopting a standardized leadership influence framework will result in setting a strong foundation for nurse advocacy. Successful long-term impacts will result in nurses skillfully integrating leadership influence and advocacy into all aspects of daily practice.
Addressing Social Determinants of Health Through Advocacy
Authors: Persaud Sabita
Published: March 2018

The social determinants of health (SDOH) are receiving increased attention due to their influence on health disparities, health outcomes, and overall quality of life. Nurse leaders must take an active role in advocating for strategies that address these important issues. The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to SDOH. A sample of 107 registered nurses completed the SDOH survey. Findings revealed that nurses experience personal discomfort and anticipate patient discomfort related to addressing the SDOH in their practice. They also voice a lack of skill, lack of time, and a dependency on other professionals to address these issues. The findings highlight the need for nurse leaders to advocate for nurses and those they care for through policy development, collaboration, and education. Based on the findings of this study, multiple strategies for nurse leaders serving as advocates are presented.
Advocating for Nursing Research
Authors: Drenkard Karen , Morris Teresa
Published: March 2018

The National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) has a Friends group. This organization, the Friends of the National Institute of Nursing Research (FNINR), has been in place for over 20 years. It serves as a bold voice to communicate the impact of NINR's work to elevate nursing science, improve lives, while advancing the nation's health. FNINR's mission is to provide resources to support nursing research and advance the mission of the NINR. In 2013, the FNINR led the creation, development, and growth of an Ambassadors Program. The Ambassador Program is a group of committed individuals who are willing to serve as advocates of the NINR. Chosen through an application process reviewed by the FNINR Advocacy Committee of the FNINR Board, these selected Ambassadors work to influence Congress and advocate for the goals and visions of the NINR. This designation was initially limited to an elite group, and peer networking and communication was built into the program. The goal of the FNINR Ambassadors Program is to extend the reach of advocacy efforts for improving the funding and knowledge about the NINR. Thirty ambassadors across the country are working to expand knowledge and educate stakeholders about the impact of nursing science on the health of the country. This article describes the process the FNINR conducted to develop the Ambassadors Program, and the outcomes associated with this program.
Advocacy
Authors: O'Connor Mary
Published: March 2018

Advocacy is a core competency of the nurse, and especially the nurse leader. It is a multidimensional concept that requires knowledge, experience, self-confidence, and above all, courage. This article describes and illustrates the perspectives of nursing administration graduate students, as they depict advocacy in many relationships. These include advocacy for the patient, family, self, community, organization, profession, and society. The themes that emerged from narratives written by these nurse leaders were the development of courage and the finding of their voices. Stories demonstrate participants' courage to speak up despite feeling conflicted due to issues of autonomy, moral distress, or fear of retribution. Implications for nurse administrators to support advocacy at all levels are presented.
Anatomic Considerations for Temporomandibular Joint Vascularized Composite Allotransplantation
Authors: Khavanin Nima , Davidson Edward H. , Lee Diana Y. , Byrne Patrick , Dorafshar Amir H.
Published: March 2018

Concomitant temporomandibular joint (TMJ) transplantation is an obvious advancement in the reconstructive armamentarium for face transplantation in scenarios involving TMJ ankylosis. This study investigates the fidelity of mandibular morphology and explores the feasibility of bilateral mandibular condyle transfer in facial vascularized composite allotransplantation. Geometric analysis was performed on 100 skeletally mature maxillofacial computed tomography scans. Exclusion criteria included mandibular trauma and dentoalveolar disease. Parameters measured were posterior height, ramus tilt, anterior height, intercondylar widths, condyle height, coronoid height, interglenoid distances, symphyseal and gonial angles, condyle and glenoid volumes, and condyle shapes. Parameters were compared by gender and ethnicity using χ
2, independent sample t tests, and one-way ANOVA. Correlation with age was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficients. Bilateral measurements were compared using paired-sample t tests. Mean intercondylar width was 102.5 mm (SD 7.0 mm), anterior height 21.5 mm (5.5), and posterior height 65.3 mm (7.7), Males demonstrate larger geometric parameters, for example, intercondylar width (4 mm mean difference, P = 0.005), anterior height (2.3 mm, P = 0.032), posterior height (5 mm, P = 0.001). Asians demonstrated statistically larger intercondylar width (8 mm difference to Caucasians, P < 0.001). Increased age was associated with greater anterior height, gonial angle, and symphyseal angle; decreased glenoid height; and change in condyle shape. Despite significant disparity of laterality measurements within individuals, posterior height, glenoid, and condyle volumes are equivalent. Mandibular morphology is highly variable. However, transplantation of a facial allograft including the mandible and bilateral condyles is technically and anatomically feasible in patients with concomitant TMJ pathology.
Disruption of the GDP-mannose synthesis pathway in Streptomyces coelicolor results in antibiotic hyper-susceptible phenotypes
Authors: Howlett Robert , Anttonen Katri , Read Nicholas , Smith Margaret C. M.
Published: March 2018

Actinomycete bacteria use polyprenol phosphate mannose as a lipid linked sugar donor for extra-cytoplasmic glycosyl transferases that transfer mannose to cell envelope polymers, including glycoproteins and glycolipids. We showed recently that strains of Streptomyces coelicolor with mutations in the gene ppm1 encoding polyprenol phosphate mannose synthase were both resistant to phage φC31 and have greatly increased susceptibility to antibiotics that mostly act on cell wall biogenesis. Here we show that mutations in the genes encoding enzymes that act upstream of Ppm1 in the polyprenol phosphate mannose synthesis pathway can also confer phage resistance and antibiotic hyper-susceptibility. GDP-mannose is a substrate for Ppm1 and is synthesised by GDP-mannose pyrophosphorylase (GMP; ManC) which uses GTP and mannose-1-phosphate as substrates. Phosphomannomutase (PMM; ManB) converts mannose-6-phosphate to mannose-1-phosphate. S. coelicolor strains with knocked down GMP activity or with a mutation in sco3028 encoding PMM acquire phenotypes that resemble those of the ppm1
- mutants i.e. φC31 resistant and susceptible to antibiotics. Differences in the phenotypes of the strains were observed, however. While the ppm1
- strains have a small colony phenotype, the sco3028 :: Tn5062 mutants had an extremely small colony phenotype indicative of an even greater growth defect. Moreover we were unable to generate a strain in which GMP activity encoded by sco3039 and sco4238 is completely knocked out, indicating that GMP is also an important enzyme for growth. Possibly GDP-mannose is at a metabolic branch point that supplies alternative nucleotide sugar donors.
Sequence Characterization of Glutamate Receptor Genes of Rat a Vertebrate and Arabidopsis Thaliana a Plant
Authors: Sengupta Antara , Choudhury Pabitra Pal , Chakraborty Subhadip
Published: March 2018

iGluR gene family of a vertebrate, Rat and AtGLR gene family of a plant, Arabidopsis thaliana [4] perform some common functionalities in neuro-transmission, which have been compared quantitatively. Our attempt is based on the chemical properties of amino acids [6, 7, 8] comprising the primary protein sequences of the aforesaid genes. 19 AtGLR genes of length varying from 808 amino acid (aa) to 1039 aa and 16 iGluR genes length varying from 902aa to 1482 aa have been taken as data sets. Thus, we detected the commonalities (conserved elements) during the long evolution of plants and animals from a common ancestor [4]. Eight different conserved regions have been found based on individual amino acids. Two different conserved regions are also found, which are based on chemical groups of amino acids. We have tried too to find different possible patterns which are common throughout the data set taken. 9 such patterns have been found with size varying from 2 to 5 amino acids at different regions in each primary protein sequences. Phylogenetic trees of AtGLR and iGluR families have also been constructed. This approach is likely to shed light on the long course of evolution.
Prediction of the yielding behaviour of ductile porous materials through computational homogenization
Authors: Pinto Carvalho Rodrigo , Rodrigues Lopes Igor A. , Andrade Pires Francisco M.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to predict the yield locus of porous ductile materials, evaluate the impact of void geometry and compare the computational results with existing analytical models.

Design/methodology/approach

A computational homogenization strategy for the definition of the elasto-plastic transition is proposed. Representative volume elements (RVEs) containing single-centred ellipsoidal voids are analysed using three-dimensional finite element models under the geometrically non-linear hypothesis of finite strains. Yield curves are obtained by means of systematic analysis of RVEs considering different kinematical models: linear boundary displacements (upper bound), boundary displacement fluctuation periodicity and uniform boundary traction (lower bound).

Findings

The influence of void geometry is captured and the reduction in the material strength is observed. Analytical models usually overestimate the impact of void geometry on the yield locus.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an alternative criterion for porous ductile materials and assesses the accuracy of analytical models through the simulation of three-dimensional finite element models under geometrically non-linear hypothesis.
Income Inequality in New Zealand, 1935–2014
Authors: Creedy John , Gemmell Norman , Nguyen Loc
Published: March 2018

Trends in income inequality are increasingly being discussed by economists and policy makers. In New Zealand, income inequality indices increased during the late 1980s and early 1990s, with limited change thereafter. But little is known about the levels and changes of such indices over prior decades. Based on previously unexplored data from Statistics New Zealand Official Yearbooks and Inland Revenue, this article reports estimates for the Gini index of income inequality for New Zealand from the mid‐1930s to the present. Comparisons with estimates for Australia for 1942–2001 reveal some remarkable commonalities.
Measuring Uncertainty and Its Impact on a Small Open Economy
Authors: Greig Lucy , Rice Amy , Vehbi Tugrul , Wong Benjamin
Published: March 2018

We study the effect of uncertainty in New Zealand, a small open economy, by considering global and New Zealand‐specific uncertainty proxies, including several US‐ and global‐centric measures and two novel New Zealand‐specific uncertainty proxies constructed using surveys of New Zealand firms and professional forecasters. We study the effect of uncertainty on a set of New Zealand macroeconomic variables. While all of the uncertainty proxies contain valuable information to understand macroeconomic fluctuations in New Zealand, a simple SVAR analysis suggests that global uncertainty is more important than domestic uncertainty in driving the New Zealand business cycle. The implications of uncertainty for monetary policy largely depend on how heightened uncertainty interacts with monetary policy objectives.
Connectivity of Streams and Wetlands to Downstream Waters: An Integrated Systems Framework
Authors: Leibowitz Scott G. , Wigington Parker J. , Schofield Kate A. , Alexander Laurie C. , Vanderhoof Melanie K. , Golden Heather E.
Published: March 2018

Interest in connectivity has increased in the aquatic sciences, partly because of its relevance to the Clean Water Act. This paper has two objectives: (1) provide a framework to understand hydrological, chemical, and biological connectivity, focusing on how headwater streams and wetlands connect to and contribute to rivers; and (2) briefly review methods to quantify hydrological and chemical connectivity. Streams and wetlands affect river structure and function by altering material and biological fluxes to the river; this depends on two factors: (1) functions within streams and wetlands that affect material fluxes; and (2) connectivity (or isolation) from streams and wetlands to rivers that allows (or prevents) material transport between systems. Connectivity can be described in terms of frequency, magnitude, duration, timing, and rate of change. It results from physical characteristics of a system, e.g., climate, soils, geology, topography, and the spatial distribution of aquatic components. Biological connectivity is also affected by traits and behavior of the biota. Connectivity can be altered by human impacts, often in complex ways. Because of variability in these factors, connectivity is not constant but varies over time and space. Connectivity can be quantified with field‐based methods, modeling, and remote sensing. Further studies using these methods are needed to classify and quantify connectivity of aquatic ecosystems and to understand how impacts affect connectivity.
LISTEN. LEARN. LIBERATE
Authors: CABLE DAN
Published: March 2018

Successful leadership involves giving employees the scope to explore, experiment and improve. It's not about control, says Dan Cable
TIME FOR A BRAVE NEW WORLD
Authors: IBARRA HERMINIA
Published: March 2018

Don't sit around thinking about what kind of leader you would like to be, says Herminia Ibarra – take action
RETURN OF THE DINOSAURS
Authors: HOULDER DOMINIC , NANDKISHORE NANDU , SARKAR SAYAN
Published: March 2018

They're big, they're old and they're out of fashion – but don't write off the long–established corporate giants, say Dominic Houlder, Nandu Nandkishore and Sayan Sarkar
LET'S KILL LEADERSHIP
Authors: GODDARD JULES
Published: March 2018

We are conditioned to be led by others, says Jules Goddard. That's dangerous. We should learn independence.
Oligodendrocyte morphology in the developing brain of the African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus, Waterhouse): Histology, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy
Authors: Olude M. A. , Bello S. T. , Mustapha O. A. , Olopade F. E. , Plendl J. , Ihunwo A. O. , Olopade J. O.
Published: March 2018

Oligodendrocyte and myelin‐related studies have been pivotal in understanding disruption of central nervous system (CNS) myelin through injury, toxicological, pathological degeneration or genetic intervention. The African giant rat (AGR) has been postulated as an indigenous wild‐type model within the African context. This work thus describes oligodendrocyte morphologies and myelin components of the developing African giant rat brain using histological, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural techniques. Five types, precursor‐progenitor oligodendrocytes, pre‐oligodendrocytes, immature oligodendrocytes, mature non‐myelinating oligodendrocytes and mature myelinating oligodendrocytes, were identified. The first four types were observed in neonates while juvenile and adult AGR had predominantly mature myelinating oligodendrocytes with evidence of myelin sheath deposition. All cell types identified showed positive CNPase‐positive immunosignalling across all age groups. This suggests CNPase as a suitable, sensitive and reliable biomarker for studying CNS neurodegenerative/demyelinating disorders in the AGR. This baseline study has given detailed insight into the morphology of oligodendrocytes and myelin in the AGR. It may be useful for anatomical studies and detection of alterations in neurocellular profile of oligodendrocytes and myelin in the AGR in real‐life or in experimental models.
The distribution and heterogeneity of mast cells in tongue from five different avian species
Authors: Ertugrul T. , Tutuncu S. , Kabak M. , Onuk B.
Published: March 2018

This study was conducted with the aim of determining the morphology, distribution and heterogeneity of mast cells in the tongues of seagull (Larus fuscus), common buzzard (Buteo buteo), goose (Anser anser), white stork (Ciconia ciconia) and Gerze rooster. The study used five samples of tongue material from each of the healthy adult avian species. The samples were fixed in 10% neutral‐buffered formalin (NBF) solution, then, after routine tissue follow‐up, the samples blocked with paraplast. Cross‐sections with 5–6 μm of thickness were stained with the 0.5% toluidine blue and alcian blue/safranin O (AB/SO). In all five avian species, it was found that the mast cells were in different sizes and round, oval or spindle‐shaped based on their place of distribution. Mast cell numbers were determined in stained with toluidine blue, examined ×40 objectives in a 1 mm2 area. It was observed that mast cell density in subepithelial lamina propria and microscopic papilla was higher in the tongues of all species. Mast cell distribution and heterogeneity varied through the tongue, and there were more mast cells in the dorsal side of the tongue than the ventral side. The highest amount of mast cells was found in the tongue of the Gerze rooster among all five species. In the tongue cross‐sections stained with the combined method of alcian blue/safranin O (AB/SO), the mast cells were stained as AB (+), SO (+) and AB/SO (+) (mixed).
Accuracy of near‐patient vs. inbuilt spirometry for monitoring tidal volumes in an in‐vitro paediatric lung model
Authors: Morgenroth S. , Thomas J. , Cannizzaro V. , Weiss M. , Schmidt A. R.
Published: March 2018

Spirometric monitoring provides precise measurement and delivery of tidal volumes within a narrow range, which is essential for lung‐protective strategies that aim to reduce morbidity and mortality in mechanically‐ventilated patients. Conventional anaesthesia ventilators include inbuilt spirometry to monitor inspiratory and expiratory tidal volumes. The GE Aisys CS2 anaesthesia ventilator allows additional near‐patient spirometry via a sensor interposed between the proximal end of the tracheal tube and the respiratory tubing. Near‐patient and inbuilt spirometry of two different GE Aisys CS2 anaesthesia ventilators were compared in an in‐vitro study. Assessments were made of accuracy and variability in inspiratory and expiratory tidal volume measurements during ventilation of six simulated paediatric lung models using the ASL 5000 test lung. A total of 9240 breaths were recorded and analysed. Differences between inspiratory tidal volumes measured with near‐patient and inbuilt spirometry were most significant in the newborn setting (p < 0.001), and became less significant with increasing age and weight. During expiration, tidal volume measurements with near‐patient spirometry were consistently more accurate than with inbuilt spirometry for all lung models (p < 0.001). Overall, the variability in measured tidal volumes decreased with increasing tidal volumes, and was smaller with near‐patient than with inbuilt spirometry. The variability in measured tidal volumes was higher during expiration, especially with inbuilt spirometry. In conclusion, the present in‐vitro study shows that measurements with near‐patient spirometry are more accurate and less variable than with inbuilt spirometry. Differences between measurement methods were most significant in the smallest patients. We therefore recommend near‐patient spirometry, especially for neonatal and paediatric patients.
An Approximate Joint Model for Multiple Paired Longitudinal Outcomes and Time-to-Event Data
Authors: Elmi Angelo F. , Grantz Katherine L. , Albert Paul S.
Published: March 2018

Joint modeling of multivariate paired longitudinal data and time-to-event data presents computational challenges that supersede full likelihood estimation due to the large dimensional random effects vector needed to capture correlation due to clustering with respect to pairs, subjects, and outcomes. We propose an alternative, computationally simpler approach to estimation of complex shared parameter models where missing data is imputed based on the Posterior Predictive Distribution from a Conditional Linear Model (CLM) approximation. Existing methods for complete data are then implemented to obtain estimates of the event time model parameters. Our method is applied to examine the effects of discordant growth in anthropometric measures of longitudinal fetal growth in twin fetuses and the timing of birth. Simulation results are presented to show that our method performs relatively well with moderate measurement errors under certain CLM approximations.