bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Proposed European Public Prosecutor’s Office – from a Trojan Horse to a White Elephant?
Authors: CSÚRI András
Published: May 2016

The concept of a European prosecution service operating within a single legal area as proposed by the 1997 Corpus Juris study aimed to tackle impediments to the prosecution of budgetary fraud cases in the transnational context. Subsequent compromises shifted the focus of negotiations from creating a European prosecution service with uniform powers to the integration thereof into the divergent national legal systems. This paper analyses relevant documents up to the draft endorsed by the 2015 Luxembourg Presidency and concludes that the scene is set for autonomous and binding Union decisions to prosecute budgetary fraud at national level. Nonetheless, the low-level of Europeanisation coupled with an increasingly complex model and no real scheme to tackle the fragmentation of national criminal laws fail to enable effective and consistent prosecutions of EU budgetary fraud.
ALMOST ALL PRIMES HAVE A MULTIPLE OF SMALL HAMMING WEIGHT
Authors: ELSHOLTZ CHRISTIAN
Published: May 2016

We improve recent results of Bourgain and Shparlinski to show that, for almost all primes$p$, there is a multiple$mp$that can be written in binary as$$\begin{eqnarray}mp=1+2^{m_{1}}+\cdots +2^{m_{k}},\quad 1\leq m_{1}<\cdots <m_{k},\end{eqnarray}$$with$k=6$(corresponding to Hamming weight seven). We also prove that there are infinitely many primes$p$with a multiplicative subgroup$A=\langle g\rangle \subset \mathbb{F}_{p}^{\ast }$, for some$g\in \{2,3,5\}$, of size$|A|\gg p/(\log p)^{3}$, where the sum–product set$A\cdot A+A\cdot A$does not cover$\mathbb{F}_{p}$completely.
Mangrove sponges from Bangka Island (North Sulawesi, Indonesia) with the description of a new species
Authors: Calcinai Barbara , Bastari Azzurra , Makapedua Daisy M. , Cerrano Carlo
Published: May 2016

Mangroves create unique ecological environments, furnishing a habitat opportunity for many species. The majority of published information on mangrove sponges comes from the Caribbean while few data are available from Indo-Pacific mangrove sponges. In general, species diversity of sponges in mangroves is lower than adjacent subtidal habitats in both the Caribbean and Indo-Pacific. The aim of this study is to report the first data about sponge species diversity of two mangrove forests from Bangka Island (North Sulawesi, Indonesia) and to describe a new sponge species associated with the mangroves. The survey found 19 species, belonging to 11 families and 15 genera; the samples were collected on mangrove trunks, on the roots or on the surrounding bottom. The majority of the species are typical of coral reef but two of them have been previously found only in lagoons or in mangrove habitats. These new data enlarge our knowledge about Indonesian sponges diversity and suggest the urgency to consider Indonesian mangroves as an important but underestimated element in coral reef ecological dynamics.
Re-description ofLysirude channeri(Decapoda Crustacea: Raninidae) from Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean
Authors: Rozario Jenson Victor , Benjamin Diana , Jose Deepak , Harikrishnan M. , Prabhakaran MP. , Shanis C.P.R. , Sreedhar U. , Cubelio Sherine Sonia , Kurup B. Madhusoodhana
Published: May 2016

Frog crabs (Family Raninidae) are cryptic, burying marine brachyuran crabs adapted for inhabiting soft and sandy bottoms across a wide bathymetric range of tropical to low-latitude temperate regions. The present account encompasses re-description ofLysirude channerifrom a depth range of 614–655 m in Bay of Bengal, India. Morphological examination of 76 specimens agreed with earlier type descriptions in having two antero-lateral spines, but this contradicts with the specimens from the South China Sea and off the Philippines. In addition, some specimens from the present study revealed the presence of two carpal spines instead of one described before. However, the genetic congruency of the collected specimens were inferred by developing molecular marker viz. mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) gene sequences, representing the first molecular data forLysirude channeri. Phylogram and genetic distance data (up to 0.60%) justified the genetic congruency ofLysirude channerias well as the interspecific divergence (up to 15.2%) betweenLysirude channeriandLyreidus brevifrons. Hence, the present study provides complete morphological and molecular data for re-describing the frog crabLysirude channeriand also delineates its speciation from other related brachyuran crabs.
The pathogenesis of bornaviral diseases in mammals
Authors: Tizard Ian , Ball Judith , Stoica George , Payne Susan
Published: May 2016

Natural bornavirus infections and their resulting diseases are largely restricted to horses and sheep in Central Europe. The disease also occurs naturally in cats, and can be induced experimentally in laboratory rodents and numerous other mammals. Borna disease virus-1 (BoDV-1), the cause of most cases of mammalian Borna disease, is a negative-stranded RNA virus that replicates within the nucleus of target cells. It causes severe, often lethal, encephalitis in susceptible species. Recent events, especially the discovery of numerous new species of bornaviruses in birds and a report of an acute, lethal bornaviral encephalitis in humans, apparently acquired from squirrels, have revived interest in this remarkable family of viruses. The clinical manifestations of the bornaviral diseases are highly variable. Thus, in addition to acute lethal encephalitis, they can cause persistent neurologic disease associated with diverse behavioral changes. They also cause a severe retinitis resulting in blindness. In this review, we discuss both the pathological lesions observed in mammalian bornaviral disease and the complex pathogenesis of the neurologic disease. Thus infected neurons may be destroyed by T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity. They may die as a result of excessive inflammatory cytokine release from microglia. They may also die as a result of a ‘glutaminergic storm’ due to a failure of infected astrocytes to regulate brain glutamate levels.
Medikamenteneinnahme optimieren bei Patienten mit chronischen Lebererkrankungen
Authors: Lacher Stefanie , Rusch Silvia , Staudacher Diana , Spirig Rebecca
Published: May 2016

Zusammenfassung. Hintergrund: Non-Adhärenz bei Patient(inn)en mit chronischen Lebererkrankungen kann zu einer Krankheitsverschlechterung führen und sogar tödliche Folgen haben. Zugleich verursacht mangelnde Medikamentenadhärenz enorme Kosten. Es ist bekannt, dass Angehörige die Einnahme von Medikamenten positiv beeinflussen können. Ziel: Ziel der vorliegenden Projektarbeit war, für das Akutspital-Setting eine Arbeitsanweisung zu erstellen, welche die Medikamentenadhärenz bei dieser Patientengruppe regelt und Angehörige miteinbezieht. Methode: Das Projektteam orientierte sich an den Prinzipien der partizipatorischen Aktionsforschung. Eine systematische Literaturrecherche diente dazu, adhärenzfördernde Interventionen zu identifizieren und zu beurteilen. Ergebnisse: Auf der Grundlage von Forschungsergebnissen, Patientenerfahrungen aus der Literatur, pflegerischer Expertise und unter Berücksichtigung des lokalen Kontextes entstand eine Arbeitsanweisung, die folgende Interventionen enthält: Bedürfnisgerechtes Informieren von Patient(inn)en und Angehörigen, Aufbau einer tragfähigen Beziehung der Betroffenen und Angehörigen zum Fachpersonal, gelingende Kommunikation, Erinnerungshilfen und Integration der Medikamenteneinnahme in den Alltag. Schlussfolgerungen: Die Arbeitsanweisung dient dazu, diese Interventionen im Spitalalltag einzusetzen, um eine optimale Adhärenz zu gewährleisten.
A pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyridine-fused pyrimidine based novel fluorophore and its bioapplication to probing lipid droplets
Authors: Kim Heejun , Jo Ala , Ha Jaeyoung , Lee Youngjun , Hwang Yoon Soo , Park Seung Bum
Published: May 2016

Pyrimidine-containing novel organic fluorophores were discovered and successively applied to monitor the lipid droplets in live cellular systems.
From FOX-7 to H-FOX to insensitive energetic materials with hypergolic properties
Authors: Srinivas Dharavath , Mitchell Lauren A. , Parrish Damon A. , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: May 2016

Nitrogen/halogen-rich derivatives of FOX-7 (1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethene), and H-FOX (1-hydrazinyl-2,2-dinitroethenamine) have been synthesized, characterized and found to exhibit energetic and hypergolic properties.
Dual-responsive aggregation-induced emission-active supramolecular nanoparticles for gene delivery and bioimaging
Authors: Dong Ruijiao , Ravinathan Screenath P. , Xue Lizhe , Li Nan , Zhang Yingjian , Zhou Linzhu , Cao Chengxi , Zhu Xinyuan
Published: May 2016

Dual-responsive aggregation-induced emission-active supramolecular nanoparticles exhibit a unique morphological transition with fluorescence variation, further achieving efficient gene delivery and bioimaging.
Following the steps of a reaction by direct imaging of many individual molecules
Authors: van Vörden Dennis , Wortmann Ben , Schmidt Nico , Lange Manfred , Robles Roberto , Brendel Lothar , Bobisch Christian A. , Möller Rolf
Published: May 2016

Upon heating FeOEP-Cl reacts to FeTBP in many individual steps. STM can be used to distinguish the individual intermediate states and in combination with numerical simulations the reaction rates and activation energies can be calculated.
Enhanced copper-mediated 18F-fluorination of aryl boronic esters provides eight radiotracers for PET applications
Authors: Preshlock Sean , Calderwood Samuel , Verhoog Stefan , Tredwell Matthew , Huiban Mickael , Hienzsch Antje , Gruber Stefan , Wilson Thomas C. , Taylor Nicholas J. , Cailly Thomas , Schedler Michael , Collier Thomas Lee , Passchier Jan , Smits René , Mollitor Jan , Hoepping Alexander , Mueller Marco , Genicot Christophe , Mercier Joël , Gouverneur Véronique
Published: May 2016

Eight clinically relevant radiotracers were isolated applying a Cu-mediated non-carrier added nucleophilic 18F-fluorination of arylboronic ester precursors.
A Z-scheme photocatalyst constructed with an yttrium–tantalum oxynitride and a binuclear Ru(ii) complex for visible-light CO2 reduction
Authors: Muraoka Kanemichi , Kumagai Hiromu , Eguchi Miharu , Ishitani Osamu , Maeda Kazuhiko
Published: May 2016

A hybrid photocatalyst composed of an yttrium–tantalum oxynitride (with a 2.1 eV band gap) and a binuclear Ru(ii) complex containing both photosensitizing and catalytic units was capable of reducing CO2 to HCOOH with very high selectivity (>99%) under visible light (>400 nm) irradiation.
Non-coordinating anions assemble cyanine amphiphiles into ultra-small fluorescent nanoparticles
Authors: Shulov Ievgen , Arntz Youri , Mély Yves , Pivovarenko Vasyl G. , Klymchenko Andrey S.
Published: May 2016

A non-coordinating anion, fluorinated tetraphenylborate, assembles specially designed cationic cyanine amphiphiles into 7–8 nm fluorescent nanoparticles that are >40-fold brighter than a single cyanine dye.
The equilibrium molecular structures of 2-deoxyribose and fructose by the semiexperimental mixed estimation method and coupled-cluster computations
Authors: Vogt Natalja , Demaison Jean , Cocinero Emilio J. , Écija Patricia , Lesarri Alberto , Rudolph Heinz Dieter , Vogt Jürgen
Published: May 2016

The mixed estimation method yields very accurate equilibrium structures, as observed in deoxyribose and fructose.
Synthesis, structure and geometrically frustrated magnetism of the layered oxide-stannide compounds Fe(Fe3−xMnx)Si2Sn7O16
Authors: Allison M. C. , Avdeev M. , Schmid S. , Liu S. , Söhnel T. , Ling C. D.
Published: May 2016

Fe4Si2Sn7O16 has a unique crystal structure that contains alternating layers of Fe2+ ions octahedrally coordinated by O (oxide layer) and Sn (stannide layer), bridged by SiO4 tetrahedra.
Well-defined palladium(0) complexes bearing N-heterocyclic carbene and phosphine moieties: efficient catalytic applications in the Mizoroki–Heck reaction and direct C–H functionalization
Authors: Lee Jhen-Yi , Shen Jiun-Shian , Tzeng Ru-Jiun , Lu I-Chen , Lii Jenn-Huei , Hu Ching-Han , Lee Hon Man
Published: May 2016

A well-defined palladium(0) complex with a phosphine-functionalized N-heterocyclic carbene ligand was prepared and shown to be inefficient in catalyzing Mizoroki–Heck coupling and direct C–H functionalization reactions.
Self-assembly of a unique 3d/4f heterometallic square prismatic box-like coordination cage
Authors: Li Li , Zhang Yingjie , Avdeev Maxim , Lindoy Leonard F. , Harman David G. , Zheng Rongkun , Cheng Zhenxiang , Aldrich-Wright Janice R. , Li Feng
Published: May 2016

A unique, slightly distorted square prismatic, box-like coordination cage of type [Cu6Dy8L8(MeOH)8(H2O)6](NO3)12·χsolvent has been synthesized via the supramolecular assembly between a non-centrosymmetric Dy(iii) metalloligand and Cu(ii) nitrate.
Synthesis and self-assembly of DNA–chromophore hybrid amphiphiles
Authors: Albert Shine K. , Golla Murali , Thelu Hari Veera Prasad , Krishnan Nithiyanandan , Deepak Perapaka , Varghese Reji
Published: May 2016

DNA based amphiphiles are synthesized through a modular “click” chemistry approach, and the DNA–chromophore hybrid amphiphiles undergo amphiphilicity-driven self-assembly into vesicular or micellar nanostructures having a DNA shell and functional core.
Trifunctional organolithium initiator for living anionic polymerization in hydrocarbon solvents in the absence of polar additives
Authors: Theodosopoulos George V. , Hurley Christopher M. , Mays Jimmy W. , Sakellariou Georgios , Baskaran Durairaj
Published: May 2016

Synthesis of well-defined three-arm star homopolymers of polystyrene and polyisoprene with a novel trifunctional anionic initiator in hydrocarbon solvents without the addition of polar additives.
Coordination chemistry of pyrazine derivatives analogues of PZA: design, synthesis, characterization and biological activity
Authors: Ogryzek Małgorzata , Chylewska Agnieszka , Królicka Aleksandra , Banasiuk Rafał , Turecka Katarzyna , Lesiak Dorota , Nidzworski Dawid , Makowski Mariusz
Published: May 2016

A novel Ru(iii) complexes were synthesized and characterized. Their stabilities were discussed in terms of aqueous and MeCN solutions. Antimicrobial properties of complexes studied were characterized against reference strains of bacteria and yeast.
Some general aspects of ion interactions with the channel pore
Authors: Arulsamy Andrew Das
Published: May 2016

Microscopic mechanism for cation selectivity in three different ion channels is proposed using ionization energy theory supported by experimental data.
Exploring the mastery of French students in using basic notions of the language of chemistry
Authors: Canac Sophie , Kermen Isabelle
Published: May 2016

Learning chemistry includes learning the language of chemistry (names, formulae, symbols, and chemical equations) which has to be done in connection with the other areas of chemical knowledge. In this study we investigate how French students understand and use names (of chemical species and common mixtures) and chemical formulae. We set a paper and pencil test composed of open-ended and multiple choice questions (5 questions in total) to students (N= 603) who have been learning chemistry for 2 years (age 14) and others for up to 7 years (age 19, first year university). For all grade levels we found that the students have great difficulties understanding notions introduced right from the first two years of chemistry teaching. The scientific name opposed to a common name does not seem to be a relevant tool used by the students to classify chemical species and mixtures. They struggle to decode a chemical formula out of the context of a chemical equation and fail to decode them in that context. The students surveyed are not able to correctly associate with a name or a formula, both macroscopic (a pure substance or a mixture) and microscopic (an atom or a molecule) criteria. They seem to have mainly a microscopic reading of the names and the chemical formulae. Therefore we think that the language of chemistry could be a source of trouble for the learning of the notion of substance. These results confirm the need to offer teachers new didactical tools to develop the teaching of the language of chemistry.
Liquid contacting as a method to study photovoltaic properties of PbS quantum dot solids
Authors: Dereviankin V. A. , Johansson E.
Published: May 2016

Semiconductor/liquid junctions can help better understand the photovoltage “potential” of PbS QD solids.
A wearable piezocapacitive pressure sensor with a single layer of silver nanowire-based elastomeric composite electrodes
Authors: You Banseok , Han Chul Jong , Kim Youngmin , Ju Byeong-Kwon , Kim Jong-Woong
Published: May 2016

A new approach to the fabrication of a transparent, stretchable and pressure-sensitive capacitor was developed by employing a single layer of Ag nanowire-based electrodes and a transparent, stretchable polymer.
Nonporous MOF-derived dopant-free mesoporous carbon as an efficient metal-free electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction
Authors: Wang Xin , Li Xingyue , Ouyang Canbin , Li Zhen , Dou Shuo , Ma Zhaoling , Tao Li , Huo Jia , Wang Shuangyin
Published: May 2016

Dopant-/metal-free mesoporous carbon has been prepared from nonporous MOFs, which is highly efficient for the electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). The excellent ORR activity is attributed to both high specific surface area and mesoporous structure.
Coherence specific signal detection via chiral pump-probe spectroscopy
Authors: Holdaway David I. H. , Collini Elisabetta , Olaya-Castro Alexandra
Published: May 2016

We examine transient circular dichroism (TRCD) spectroscopy as a technique to investigate signatures of exciton coherence dynamics under the influence of structured vibrational environments. We consider a pump-probe configuration with a linearly polarized pump and a circularly polarized probe, with a variable angle Î¸ between the two directions of propagation. In our theoretical formalism the signal is decomposed in chiral and achiral doorway and window functions. Using this formalism, we show that the chiral doorway component, which beats during the population time, can be isolated by comparing signals with different values of Î¸. As in the majority of time-resolved pump-probe spectroscopy, the overall TRCD response shows signatures of both excited and ground state dynamics. However, we demonstrate that the chiral doorway function has only a weak ground state contribution, which can generally be neglected if an impulsive pump pulse is used. These findings suggest that the pump-probe configuration of optical TRCD in the impulsive limit has the potential to unambiguously probe quantum coherence beating in the excited state. We present numerical results for theoretical signals in an example dimer system.
High precision tilt stage as a key element to a universal test mirror for characterization and calibration of slope measuring instruments
Authors: Yashchuk Valeriy V. , Artemiev Nikolay A. , Centers Gary , Chaubard Arthur , Geckeler Ralf D. , Lacey Ian , Marth Harry , McKinney Wayne R. , Noll Tino , Siewert Frank , Winter Mathias , Zeschke Thomas
Published: May 2016

The ultimate performance of surface slope metrology instrumentation, such as long trace profilers and auto-collimator based deflectometers, is limited by systematic errors that are increased when the entire angular range is used for metrology of significantly curved optics. At the ALS X-Ray Optics Laboratory, in collaboration with the HZB/BESSY-II and PTB (Germany) metrology teams, we are working on a calibration method for deflectometers, based on a concept of a universal test mirror (UTM) [V. V. Yashchuk et al., Proc. SPIE 6704, 67040A (2007)]. Potentially, the UTM method provides high performance calibration and accounts for peculiarities of the optics under test (e.g., slope distribution) and the experimental arrangement (e.g., the distance between the sensor and the optic under test). At the same time, the UTM calibration method is inherently universal, applicable to a variety of optics and experimental arrangements. In this work, we present the results of tests with a key component of the UTM system, a custom high precision tilt stage, which has been recently developed in collaboration with Physik Instrumente, GmbH. The tests have demonstrated high performance of the stage and its capability (after additional calibration) to provide angular calibration of surface slope measuring profilers over the entire instrumental dynamic range with absolute accuracy better than 30 nrad. The details of the stage design and tests are presented. We also discuss the foundation of the UTM method and calibration algorithm, as well as the possible design of a full scale UTM system.
Entropy power inequalities for qudits
Authors: Audenaert Koenraad , Datta Nilanjana , Ozols Maris
Published: May 2016

Shannon’s entropy power inequality (EPI) can be viewed as a statement of concavity of an entropic function of a continuous random variable under a scaled addition rule: f(a X+1−a Y)≥af(X)+(1−a)f(Y)∀ a∈[0,1]. Here, X and Y are continuous random variables and the function f is either the differential entropy or the entropy power. König and Smith [IEEE Trans. Inf. Theory 60(3), 1536–1548 (2014)] and De Palma, Mari, and Giovannetti [Nat. Photonics 8(12), 958–964 (2014)] obtained quantum analogues of these inequalities for continuous-variable quantum systems, where X and Y are replaced by bosonic fields and the addition rule is the action of a beam splitter with transmissivity a on those fields. In this paper, we similarly establish a class of EPI analogues for d-level quantum systems (i.e., qudits). The underlying addition rule for which these inequalities hold is given by a quantum channel that depends on the parameter a ∈ [0, 1] and acts like a finite-dimensional analogue of a beam splitter with transmissivity a, converting a two-qudit product state into a single qudit state. We refer to this channel as a partial swap channel because of the particular way its output interpolates between the states of the two qudits in the input as a is changed from zero to one. We obtain analogues of Shannon’s EPI, not only for the von Neumann entropy and the entropy power for the output of such channels, but also for a much larger class of functions. This class includes the Rényi entropies and the subentropy. We also prove a qudit analogue of the entropy photon number inequality (EPnI). Finally, for the subclass of partial swap channels for which one of the qudit states in the input is fixed, our EPIs and EPnI yield lower bounds on the minimum output entropy and upper bounds on the Holevo capacity.
Template Polymerization of Acrylamide in Ethanol/Water Mixtures
Authors: Dong Jie , Yue Xiang'an , He Jie
Published: May 2016

Irregular hollow polyacrylamide (PAAm) particles with the mean diameter varying from 125 to 413 nm were prepared in ethanol/water mixtures by template polymerization using polyvinyl butyral (PVB) microspheres as the template and 2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as the initiator. The influence of the solvent composition, monomer concentration, and template concentration on the yield, molecular weight, and particle size of PAAm were investigated. Decreasing the volume ratio of ethanol to water or increasing the monomer concentration can increase the yield, molecular weight, and particle size of PAAm. The monomer concentration threshold for coagulum-free polymerization is 6 % (w/v). Although the PVB concentration does not show significant influence on the yield, molecular weight, and particle size of PAAm, keeping the PVB concentration between 0.1 and 0.3 % (w/v) is the key to forming PVB microspheres. The formation of PAAm particles is discussed based on transmission electron microscopy results, it is concluded that the shrinkage and dehydration on hollow PAAm particles, which is caused by the removal of templates, results in the formation of micro-sized irregular hollow PAAm particles.
The use of herpetofauna and cultural values to identify priority conservation forests on Malaita, Solomon Islands.
Authors: Pollard Edgar , Brodie Gilianne , Thaman Randy , Morrison Clare
Published: May 2016

Due to limited financial and technical resources, there is a pressing need to identify priority areas and strategies
for conservation globally. This study aims to prioritize important forest areas for conservation on the island of Malaita,
Solomon Islands. Five different forest types were sampled to quantify biodiversity using the species richness of frogs
and lizards (herpetofauna) as a biological indicator of conservation status. Unlogged coastal, unlogged lowland and
unlogged upland forests have minimal disturbance whereas logged lowland forests and plantation teak forests are heavily
disturbed. Subsequently, the effects of human modification on forest systems are also quantified based on anthropogenic
disturbance. Interviews with local community members were conducted to gather associated local traditional knowledge
on the cultural importance of frogs, lizards and forest habitats. Prioritization methods based on species richness, species
uniqueness, cultural importance and threatened status are used to identify key forest areas. The four main results
found are: 1) unlogged lowland forests have the greatest biodiversity value, 2) unlogged lowland forests also have the
highest cultural value based on local uses, 3) logged lowland forests are biologically important, and 4) unlogged coastal
forests and unlogged lowland forests are under the greatest threat from anthropogenic activities. Based on these results,
the conservation of unlogged lowland forests on Malaita should be prioritized. These results also highlight the importance
of combining biological sampling with cultural information to improve the efficiency and long-term success of conservation
actions.
Beyond Baby Steps
Authors: Geltman Elizabeth Glass , Gill Gunwant , Jovanovic Miriam
Published: May 2016

This study evaluated the impact of Executive Order (EO) 12898 to advance environmental justice. We conducted a review evaluating the frequency and effective use of EO 12898 since execution with particular focus following President Obama's Plan EJ 2014. We found that both EO 12898 and Plan EJ 2104 had little, if any, impact on federal regulatory decision making. To the extent federal agencies discussed EO 12898, most did so in boilerplate rhetoric that satisfied compliance but was devoid of detailed thought or analysis. In the 21st year, with the exception of the Environmental Protection Agency, very little federal regulatory activity included references to EO 12898.
Diabetic dyslipidaemia
Authors: Soran Handrean , Schofield Jonathan D. , Adam Safwaan , Durrington Paul N.
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

The purpose is to discuss recent developments in the understanding of lipoprotein metabolism in diabetes, the cardiovascular risk associated with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, recently published guidelines on the management of this risk, concerns over the use of statin treatment in diabetes, and other therapeutic options.

Recent findings

Diabetic dyslipidaemia can be gross with massive hypertriglyceridemia, or subtle with a lipid profile which would be regarded as normal in a nondiabetic patient, but which hides underlying increases in atherogenic subfractions of LDL (e.g., small dense LDL, glycated LDL) and remnant lipoproteins. Statins can decrease these without the clinician being aware from routine biochemistry. In type 2 diabetes, HDL cholesterol levels are often reduced, whereas in type 1, insulin can raise HDL, but its antiatherogenic properties are compromised. Dyslipidaemia and hypertension predate the onset of glycaemia of diabetic proportions (metabolic syndrome). Obese people can thus die of diabetes before they develop it. Obesity should be prevented and treated. Statins decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease in diabetes or metabolic syndrome regardless of whether glycaemia worsens.

One unassailable truth is that statin therapy is beneficial and should rarely, if ever, be withheld.
Diagnosis and management of hair loss in children
Authors: Castelo-Soccio Leslie
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

Hair loss is common in infants and children and the ability to distinguish why a child is losing hair enables providers to distinguish hair loss that is related to infection, autoimmune conditions, nutrition, medications, trauma/traction, or underlying genetic disorders such as ectodermal dysplasias. Making these distinctions leads to best management and guidance for patients and their families.

Recent findings

Careful physical examination of the hair, scalp, skin, and nails coupled with dermoscopy or trichoscopy, or both, can yield more accurate and faster diagnosis. Biopsy is rarely needed in children for hair loss conditions.

Hair loss, particularly on the scalp, can affect all ages and can impact patients socially and emotionally. The majority of hair loss in children is nonscarring. Diagnosis begins with a good history, including personal and family history, medication use, a thorough physical examination, and use of dermoscopy or trichoscopy, or both. With these, providers can begin to divide hair loss into congenital vs. acquired, and then further subdivide into focal vs. diffuse and scarring vs. nonscarring. Secondary change, including scale and erythema, can further help with diagnosis.
Is There a Cosmetic Advantage to Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgical Techniques Over Standard Laparoscopic Surgery? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Evans Luke , Manley Kate
Published: May 2016

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery represents an evolution of minimally invasive techniques, but has been a controversial development. A cosmetic advantage is stated by many authors, but has not been found to be universally present or even of considerable importance by patients. This systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrates that there is a cosmetic advantage of the technique regardless of the operation type. The treatment effect in terms of cosmetic improvement is of the order of 0.63.
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding (LAGB) Plus Anterior Fundoplication Versus LAGB Alone: A Prospective Comparative Study
Authors: Pilone Vincenzo , Vitiello Antonio , Monda Angela , Giglio Francesco , Forestieri Pietro
Published: May 2016

Background:

Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is a well-established and effective bariatric procedure, whose outcomes can be compromised by the slippage and the following removal of the band; the association between LAGB and gastric plication has recently been proved as a successful treatment for morbid obesity. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to compare weight loss and slippage rate between LAGB and LAGB plus anterior fundoplication.

Methods:

From January 2012 to May 2012, a total of 40 patients were allocated to undergo either LAGB (group A, n=20) or LAGB plus anterior fundoplication (group B, n=20). Data on the operative time, complications, hospital stay, total weight loss percentage (%TWL), percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL), and improvement of comorbidities were collected at 6, 12, and 36 months of follow-up.

Results:

All procedures were completed laparoscopically, and no significant difference of mean operative time was found between the 2 groups. The mean hospital stay was longer in group B than in group A (2.3±0.8 vs. 1.4±0.7 d, P<0.005). Greater weight loss was found in group B rather than in group A at 6, 12, and 36 months. Obesity related comorbidities improved in both groups. Number of band regulations and slippage rate were lower in group B.

Conclusions:

Our experience shows that 36 months after surgery LAGB plus anterior fundoplication increases weight loss and reduces the slippage rate.
Cognitive interventions in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: emerging mechanisms and role of imaging
Authors: Vemuri Prashanthi , Fields Julie , Peter Jessica , Klöppel Stefan
Published: May 2016

Purpose of review

There has been recent debate about the lack of compelling scientific evidence on the efficacy of cognitive interventions. The goal of this study is to review the current state of cognitive interventions in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, present emerging mechanisms, and discuss the role of imaging in designing effective intervention strategies.

Recent findings

Cognitive interventions appear to be promising in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Although feasibility has been shown in mild cognitive impairment, early Alzheimer's disease, and mild to moderate Parkinson's disease, studies to investigate long-term efficacy and mechanisms underlying these interventions are still needed.

There is a need to conduct scientifically rigorous studies to validate the efficacy of cognitive intervention trials. Future studies will greatly benefit from including longitudinal imaging in their study design. Imaging can be used to demonstrate the efficacy and mechanisms by measuring brain changes over the intervention period. Imaging can also be used to determine biological and disease-related factors that may influence the treatment response, that is, the effect modifiers. Consideration of effect modifiers will allow us to measure the treatment response in biomarkers and cognition with greater sensitivity and also aid in designing trials that will lead to better patient outcomes.
Global analysis of transcriptionally engaged yeast RNA polymerase III reveals extended tRNA transcripts
Authors: Turowski Tomasz W. , Leśniewska Ewa , Delan-Forino Clementine , Sayou Camille , Boguta Magdalena , Tollervey David
Published: May 2016

RNA polymerase III (RNAPIII) synthesizes a range of highly abundant small stable RNAs, principally pre-tRNAs. Here we report the genome-wide analysis of nascent transcripts attached to RNAPIII under permissive and restrictive growth conditions. This revealed strikingly uneven polymerase distributions across transcription units, generally with a predominant 5′ peak. This peak was higher for more heavily transcribed genes, suggesting that initiation site clearance is rate-limiting during RNAPIII transcription. Down-regulation of RNAPIII transcription under stress conditions was found to be uneven; a subset of tRNA genes showed low response to nutrient shift or loss of the major transcription regulator Maf1, suggesting potential “housekeeping” roles. Many tRNA genes were found to generate long, 3′-extended forms due to read-through of the canonical poly(U) terminators. The degree of read-through was anti-correlated with the density of U-residues in the nascent tRNA, and multiple, functional terminators can be located far downstream. The steady-state levels of 3′-extended pre-tRNA transcripts are low, apparently due to targeting by the nuclear surveillance machinery, especially the RNA binding protein Nab2, cofactors for the nuclear exosome, and the 5′-exonuclease Rat1.
Identifying and managing risks involved in the transition to the EU nZEB decree
Authors: Kantola Mikko , Saari Arto
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the risks and challenges related to the change in building construction projects to the European Union (EU) zero-energy building (nZEB) decree in the year 2020. Another goal was to create solutions to those risks and challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

A workshop method was chosen to gather up-to-date information from the construction cluster in Finland.

Findings

In the workshop, the main concern was the level of knowledge and know-how with all the parties working with construction projects. As an answer to this challenge, serious and substantial education in the organisations and competence requirements for designers and piloting as much as possible in the next few years was offered. Commissioning consultant was also seen as vital for nZEB project. Tight schedules and unfit project delivery systems were also seen as a risk for nZEB projects. However, modern project delivery systems were seen to be problematic in practice even if they were functional in theory.

Originality/value

The results of the workshop are valuable for all parties working with building construction projects in Finland and the whole EU area.
User engagement in social media – an explorative study of Swedish fashion brands
Authors: Geissinger Andrea , Laurell Christofer
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to add to the literature by exploring how curvilinear manifestations of user engagement can be explained in the setting of fashion-oriented social media.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study analyses how ten Swedish fashion brands have been integrated in expressions of user engagement in social media. In total, a material of 11,173 user-generated contents from different types of social media applications over a period of 12 weeks was collected and analysed.

Findings

– The results of this paper show that user engagement fluctuates considerably over time in social media. It also shows that the degree of engagement varies between different forms of social media applications.

Originality/value

– This study contributes to the literature on fashion marketing and user engagement by adding empirical support for the suggestion that expressions of engagement found in social media are curvilinear in their nature. It also concludes that highly involved and engaged users, instead of being brand activists, tend to be variety seekers in the studied setting that when taken together represents an emerging managerial challenge for the fashion industry and particularly fashion firms.
Inspiration sources for Australian fast fashion design: tapping into consumer desire
Authors: Payne Alice
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify both the inspiration sources used by fast fashion designers and ways the designers sort information from the sources during the product development process.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a qualitative study, drawing on semi-structured interviews conducted with the members of the in-house design teams of three Australian fast fashion companies.

Findings

– Australian fast fashion designers rely on a combination of trend data, sales data, product analysis, and travel for design development ideas. The designers then use the consensus and embodiment methods to interpret and synthesise information from those inspiration sources.

Research limitations/implications

– The empirical data used in the analysis were limited by interviewing fashion designers within only three Australian companies.

Originality/value

– This research augments knowledge of fast fashion product development, in particular designers’ methods and approaches to product design within a volatile and competitive market.
Credit risk signals in CDS market vs agency ratings
Authors: Jacobs Jr Michael , Karagozoglu Ahmet K. , Layish Dina Naples
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This research aims to model the relationship between the credit risk signals in the credit default swap (CDS) market and agency credit ratings, and determines the factors that help explain the variation in such signals.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive analysis of the differences in the relative credit risk assessments of CDS-based risk signals and agency ratings is provided. It is shown that the divergence between credit risk signals in the CDS market and agency ratings is explained by factors which the rating agencies may consider differently than credit market participants.

Findings

The results suggest that agency credit ratings of relative riskiness of a reference entity do not always correspond with assessments by CDS spreads, as the price of risk is a function of additional macro and micro factors that can be explained using statistical analysis.

Originality/value

This research is unique in modeling the relationship between the credit risk assessments of the CDS market and the agency ratings, which to the best of the authors' knowledge has not been analyzed before in terms of their agreement and the level of discrepancy between them. This model can be used by investors in debt instruments that are not explicitly CDSs or which have illiquid CDS contracts, to replicate market-based, point-in-time credit risk signals. Based on both market-based and firm-specific factors in this model, the results can be used to augment through-the-cycle credit risk assessments, analyze issues surrounding the pricing of CDSs and examine the policies of credit rating agencies.
Two distinct Ras genes from Puccinia striiformis exhibit differential roles in rust pathogenicity and cell death
Authors: Cheng Yulin , Wang Wumei , Yao Juanni , Huang Lili , Voegele Ralf T. , Wang Xiaojie , Kang Zhensheng
Published: May 2016

Ras genes have been shown to regulate a variety of cellular processes in higher eukaryotes. However, much less is known about their function(s) in fungi, especially plant pathogenic fungi. Here, we report the identification and functional analysis of Ras genes from Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), an important fungal pathogen in wheat production worldwide. Pst contains two Ras genes, PsRas1 and PsRas2, which share 48.6% similarity at the protein level and fall into two different phylogenetic clades. Both PsRas1 and PsRas2 have conserved protein sequences among different Pst isolates, but exhibit different transcript profiles during Pst infection. Silencing of PsRas1 or PsRas2 indicates that PsRas2 but not PsRas1 contributes significantly to rust pathogenicity. However, overexpression of PsRas1, but not PsRas2, promotes cell death in yeast and plants. Further studies show that all conserved domains of Ras GTPases in PsRas1 are needed to induce this cell death. In plants, PsRas1‐triggered cell death shows similar characteristics as plant hypersensitive response. Our findings suggest that PsRas1 and PsRas2 take over different functions in rust pathogenicity and cell death, thus facilitating the understanding of cell death, pathogenic mechanisms of plant pathogenic fungi and the search for novel pathogen control strategies.
Parent–child interaction: Does parental language matter?
Authors: Menashe Atara , Atzaba‐Poria Naama
Published: May 2016

Although parental language and behaviour have been widely investigated, few studies have examined their unique and interactive contribution to the parent–child relationship. The current study explores how parental behaviour (sensitivity and non‐intrusiveness) and the use of parental language (exploring and control languages) correlate with parent–child dyadic mutuality. Specifically, we investigated the following questions: (1) ‘Is parental language associated with parent–child dyadic mutuality above and beyond parental behaviour?’ (2) ‘Does parental language moderate the links between parental behaviour and the parent–child dyadic mutuality?’ (3) ‘Do these differences vary between mothers and fathers?’ The sample included 65 children (Mage = 1.97 years, SD = 0.86) and their parents. We observed parental behaviour, parent–child dyadic mutuality, and the type of parental language used during videotaped in‐home observations. The results indicated that parental language and behaviours are distinct components of the parent–child interaction. Parents who used higher levels of exploring language showed higher levels of parent–child dyadic mutuality, even when accounting for parental behaviour. Use of controlling language, however, was not found to be related to the parent–child dyadic mutuality. Different moderation models were found for mothers and fathers. These results highlight the need to distinguish parental language and behaviour when assessing their contribution to the parent–child relationship.
Antidepressant‐like Effects of ZBH2012001, a Novel Potent Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
Authors: Fan Qiong‐Yin , Xue Rui , Li Ying , Zhang Ting‐Ting , He Xin‐Hua , Fan Shi‐Yong , Li Yun‐Feng , Zhong Bo‐Hua , Zhang You‐Zhi , Li Jin
Published: May 2016

Aims

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antidepressant‐like effects of ZBH2012001, a novel potential serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).

Methods

Competitive binding assays, calcium flow, and cAMP detection methods were used to determine the affinity of ZBH2012001 for serotonin transporters (SERTs) and norepinephrine transporters (NETs), as well as its selectivity over dopamine transporters (DATs) and 16 other G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) or iron channels. The antidepressant‐like effects of ZBH2012001 were determined using the tail suspension test, forced swim test, and learned helplessness paradigm. The pharmacokinetics and acute toxicity of ZBH2012001 were also assessed.

Results

ZBH2012001 exhibited a moderate affinity to SERTs and NETs (Ki values were 35.3 ± 2.86 and 225 ± 26.0 nM, respectively); it had no effects on the DATs or the 16 other GPCRs or iron channels. Data from behavioral tests indicated that ZBH2012001 exhibited superior antidepressant‐like effects compared with duloxetine (one of the most used SNRIs) in the three depression models. The pharmacokinetic evaluation of ZBH2012001 indicated that the absolute bioavailability value was 60.5%, and the acute toxicity test indicated that LD50 of ZBH2012001 was 346 mg/kg.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that ZBH2012001 is a novel SNRI with superior antidepressant‐like effects, lower acute toxicity and a better pharmacokinetic profile compared with duloxetine. Thus, ZBH2012001 may have potential therapeutic effects in depression disorders.
Development of synaptic networks in the mouse vagal pathway revealed by optical mapping with a voltage‐sensitive dye
Authors: Momose‐Sato Yoko , Sato Katsushige
Published: May 2016

The central issue in developmental neuroscience is when and how neural synaptic networks are established and become functional within the central nervous system (CNS). Investigations of the neural network organization have been hampered because conventional electrophysiological means have some technical limitations. In this study, the multiple‐site optical recording technique with a voltage‐sensitive dye was employed to survey the developmental organization of the vagal system in the mouse embryo. Stimulation of the vagus nerve in E11–E14 mouse embryos elicited optical responses in areas corresponding to the vagal sensory and motor nuclei. Postsynaptic responses in the first‐order sensory nucleus, the nucleus of the tractus solitarius (NTS), were identified from E11, suggesting that sensory information becomes transferred to the brain at this stage. In addition to the NTS, optical responses were identified in the rostral and contralateral brainstem regions, which corresponded to second/higher order nuclei of the vagus nerve including the parabrachial nucleus (PBN). Postsynaptic responses in the second/higher‐order nuclei were detected from E12, suggesting that polysynaptic networks were functional at this stage. We discuss the results of our optical mapping, comparing them with previous findings obtained in the chick and rat embryos, and suggest some fundamental principles in the functional organization of synaptic networks in the embryonic brain.