bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Magnetic Anisotropy by Lithography
Authors: Kim Si Nyeon , Nam Yoon Jae , Kim Yang Doo , Choi Jun Woo , Lee Heon , Lim Sang Ho
Published: May 2016

Artificial interface anisotropy is demonstrated in alternating Co/Pt and Co/Pd stripe patterns, providing a means of forming magnetic anisotropy using lithography. In-plane hysteresis loops measured along two principal directions are explained in depth by two competing shape and interface anisotropies, thus confirming the formation of interface anisotropy at the Co/Pt and Co/Pd interfaces of the stripe patterns. The measured interface anisotropy energies, which are in the range of 0.2–0.3 erg/cm2 for both stripes, are smaller than those observed in conventional multilayers, indicating a decrease in smoothness of the interfaces when formed by lithography. The demonstration of interface anisotropy in the Co/Pt and Co/Pd stripe patterns is of significant practical importance, because this setup makes it possible to form anisotropy using lithography and to modulate its strength by controlling the pattern width. Furthermore, this makes it possible to form more complex interface anisotropy by fabricating two-dimensional patterns. These artificial anisotropies are expected to open up new device applications such as multilevel bits using in-plane magnetoresistive thin-film structures.
Asymmetric dual catalysis via fragmentation of a single rhodium precursor complex
Authors: Song Liangliang , Gong Lei , Meggers Eric
Published: May 2016

A strategy for dual transition metal catalysis and organocatalysis is reported via disintegration of a single rhodium complex. Conveniently, the chiral-at-metal rhodium precatalyst can be synthesized in just two steps starting from rhodium trichloride without the need for any chromatography.
Synthesis and characterization of metallo-supramolecular polymers
Authors: Winter Andreas , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: May 2016

The basic concepts and synthetic strategies leading to metallo-supramolecular polymers as well as the scope and limitation in characterizing such materials are discussed in this review.
Iron-catalyzed addition/cyclization cascade of activated alkenes with alcohols: access to carbonyl substituted quinoline-2,4-diones
Authors: Wang Shi-Sheng , Fu Hong , Wang Guanlin , Sun Meng , Li Ya-Min
Published: May 2016

Iron-catalyzed radical addition/cyclization cascade of o-cyanoarylacrylamides with alcohols has been developed for the synthesis of carbonyl substituted quinoline-2,4(1H,3H)-diones.
Novel self-assembled natural graphite based composite anodes with improved kinetic properties in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Miao , Wang Zhoulu , Wang Aoning , Li Weishan , Liu Xiang , Fu Lijun , Huang Wei
Published: May 2016

Novel self-assembled natural graphite composites (SANGs) were prepared by the granulation of natural graphite and acrylonitrile/styrene copolymer (SAN) particles by a spray-drying and subsequent pyrolysis procedure.
Stellenwert ambulanter, gerätegestützter Trainingstherapie bei Atemwegs- und Lungenkrankheiten
Authors: Glöckl R. , Göhl O. , Spielmanns M. , Taube K. , Bock R. , Schultz K. , Worth H.
Published: May 2016

Die körperliche Trainingstherapie gilt als eine der wichtigsten Therapieoptionen für Patienten mit chronischen Atemwegs- und Lungenkrankheiten: Die Effekte des Ausdauer- und Krafttrainings auf Atemnot, körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit und Lebensqualität sind unbestritten. Dennoch wird die Trainingstherapie im ambulanten Bereich durch die Rahmenvereinbarungen der Bundesarbeitsgemeinschaft für Rehabilitation (BAR) limitiert: Nur der in Gruppen angeleitete Lungensport wird über längere Zeiträume von den Kostenträgern finanziert, das gerätegestützte Training bleibt ausgeschlossen, obwohl sich dessen herausragende Effizienz durch zahlreiche randomisiert kontrollierte Studien nachweisen lässt.

In diesem Übersichtsartikel werden neben der Methodik und den Effekten auch die aktuellen organisatorischen Strukturen einer ambulanten, gerätegestützten Trainingstherapie für Patienten mit chronischen Atemwegs- und Lungenkrankheiten in Deutschland aufgezeigt und kritisch diskutiert.
Using Simulation to Prepare Nursing Students for Professional Roles
Authors: Wittmann-Price Ruth A. , Price Sam W. , Graham Crystal , Wilson Linda
Published: May 2016

The current job market for nurses is variable and although there remains a projected shortage of nurses for the future, availability of entry-level positions has changed. This mixed-methods pilot study describes the successful use of simulated role-play to prepare senior nursing students (N = 66) for competitive job markets. The simulation laboratory was set up as a human resource department. The students and interviewers were evaluated by surveys. The majority of students rated the experience high for understanding interviews and assisting them with readiness for interviews. Qualitative results revealed themes of nervousness, confidence, and readiness. Interviewers also discussed student nervousness and the benefits of simulated interviews. These results affirmed that the overall learning outcome of the experience was positive and can assist in promoting professional role transition. The project will continue to be implemented, and it will be extended to graduate students in the future.
Crystal structure of the TK2203 protein fromThermococcus kodakarensis, a putative extradiol dioxygenase
Authors: Nishitani Yuichi , Simons Jan-Robert , Kanai Tamotsu , Atomi Haruyuki , Miki Kunio
Published: May 2016

The TK2203 protein from the hyperthermophilic archaeonThermococcus kodakarensisKOD1 (262 residues, 29 kDa) is a putative extradiol dioxygenase catalyzing the cleavage of C–C bonds in catechol derivatives. It contains three metal-binding residues, but has no significant sequence similarity to proteins for which structures have been determined. Here, the first crystal structure of the TK2203 protein was determined at 1.41 Å resolution to investigate its functional role. Structure analysis reveals that this protein shares the same fold and catalytic residues as other extradiol dioxygenases, strongly suggesting the same enzymatic activity. Furthermore, the important region contributing to substrate selectivity is discussed.
Structure of an ABC transporter solute-binding protein specific for the amino sugars glucosamine and galactosamine
Authors: Yadava Umesh , Vetting Matthew W. , Al Obaidi Nawar , Carter Michael S. , Gerlt John A. , Almo Steven C.
Published: May 2016

The uptake of exogenous solutes by prokaryotes is mediated by transport systems embedded in the plasma membrane. In many cases, a solute-binding protein (SBP) is utilized to bind ligands with high affinity and deliver them to the membrane-bound components responsible for translocation into the cytoplasm. In the present study, Avi_5305, anAgrobacterium vitisSBP belonging to Pfam13407, was screened by differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) and found to be stabilized by D-glucosamine and D-galactosamine. Avi_5305 is the first protein from Pfam13407 shown to be specific for amino sugars, and co-crystallization resulted in structures of Avi_5305 bound to D-glucosamine and D-galactosamine. Typical of Pfam13407, Avi_5305 consists of two α/β domains linked through a hinge region, with the ligand-binding site located in a cleft between the two domains. Comparisons withEscherichia coliribose-binding protein suggest that a cation–π interaction with Tyr168 provides the specificity for D-glucosamine/D-galactosamine over D-glucose/D-galactose.
High-resolution NMR structures of the domains ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeTho1
Authors: Jacobsen Julian O. B. , Allen Mark D. , Freund Stefan M. V. , Bycroft Mark
Published: May 2016

THO is a multi-protein complex involved in the formation of messenger ribonuclear particles (mRNPs) by coupling transcription with mRNA processing and export. THO is thought to be formed from five subunits, Tho2p, Hpr1p, Tex1p, Mft1p and Thp2p, and recent work has determined a low-resolution structure of the complex [Poulsenet al.(2014),PLoS One,9, e103470]. A number of additional proteins are thought to be involved in the formation of mRNP in yeast, including Tho1, which has been shown to bind RNAin vitroand is recruited to actively transcribed chromatinin vivoin a THO-complex and RNA-dependent manner. Tho1 is known to contain a SAP domain at the N-terminus, but the ability to suppress the expression defects of thehpr1Δ mutant of THO was shown to reside in the RNA-binding C-terminal region. In this study, high-resolution structures of both the N-terminal DNA-binding SAP domain and C-terminal RNA-binding domain have been determined.
Crystal structure and magnetic properties of LaCa0.143 (4)O0.857 (4)F0.143 (4)Bi0.857 (4)S2
Authors: Huang Rongtie , Zhang Hui , Wang Dong , Cai Chuanbing , Huang Fuqiang
Published: May 2016

The synthesis, structure, and magnetic properties of lithium dibarium calcium oxide fluoride disulfide are reported. LaCa0.143 (4)O0.857 (4)F0.143 (4)Bi0.857 (4)S2crystallizes in the tetragonal space groupP4/nmm. The structure exhibits disorder of the Ca2+and Bi3+cations, and the O2−and F−anions. The structure is composed of a stacking of [(O,F)2La2] layers and double [(Bi,Ca)S2] layers. Magnetic property measurements indicate a very small magnetization at 300 K and the existence of weak ferromagnetism at 2 K.
(E)-1-(Pyridin-4-yl)propan-1-one oxime
Authors: Eitel Michael , Schollmeyer Dieter , Koch Pierre
Published: May 2016

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C8H10N2O, contains two crystallographically independent molecules of slightly different conformation, which are linkedviaan intermolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond. The dihedral angle between the pyridine ring and the oxime plane of moleculeA[2.09 (19)°] is smaller than in moleculeB[16.50 (18)°].
Operational “problem” directors and environmental performance
Authors: Borhan Uddin Bhuiyan Md. , Hooks Jill
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The way in which a firm’s actions are perceived by others is driven by the individual values and ethics of directors (Ntim and Soobaroyen, 2013). The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of “problem” directors on the environmental performance of firms. The authors argue that if a board member has a tainted reputation, then environmental performance will be higher as the problem director seeks to rebuild his/her reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a sample of the top 500 US companies for 2010 and 2011 and an ordinary least square (OLS) model to capture the impact of “problem” directors on environmental performance. The authors use an independent measure of environmental performance which includes three categories: environmental impact, environmental management (green policies) and environmental reputation (which is affected by disclosure).

Findings

The findings of this paper show that the average environmental impact score is 53.32 per cent, the environmental management green policy score is 35.39 per cent and environmental reputation is 49.86 per cent. A firm which is operated by a problem director has a higher score for environmental management and environmental reputation than non-problem director-affiliated firms. Firms which are managed by a problem director(s) have lower scores for environmental impact than non-problem director-affiliated firms in the USA, indicating a higher level of emissions, water use, waste disposal, etc.

Practical implications

The authors posit that problem directors promote environmental performance as a means to enhance their reputation and divert attention from allegations of previous poor professional behaviour. Regulators and investors should interpret the environmental performance of a firm with caution when a problem director is on the board.

Originality/value

Prior research on the relationship between environmental performance and corporate governance has been based on board composition and characteristics. However, board decision-making reflects the professional experience and personal values of the directors. These factors have not been addressed in the literature to-date and, hence, form this paper’s contribution.
Attenuation modes from Vertical Seismic Profiling and sonic waveform in a carbonate reservoir, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Bouchaala F. , Ali M.Y. , Matsushima J.
Published: May 2016

In this study, we derived accurate and high‐resolution attenuation profiles using spectral ratio, centroid frequency shift, and seismic interferometry methods. We utilized high‐quality vertical seismic profiling and sonic waveform data acquired in a carbonate reservoir located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The scattering profile of vertical‐seismic‐profiling data contributes significantly to wave attenuation that can be explained by high heterogeneity of the carbonate rocks. The scattering profile also correlates well with the reservoir lithology and fractured zones imaged by the Formation MicroImager. A tar mat zone occurs within the lower part of Arab D reservoir. This zone corresponds with a decrease in scattering attenuation. The tar mat may have filled the pores and made this zone less heterogeneous. Therefore, a decrease in scattering attenuation can be considered a potential parameter for tar mat detection. After removing the scattering effect, nonphysical negative intrinsic attenuation values still exist at certain depths. The most probable explanation for this is the three‐dimensional scattering effect, which is not taken into account in this paper, and short‐period upgoing waves. Seismic interferometry is less sensitive to the remaining scattered upgoing wave, which is why seismic interferometry method shows fewer negative values than the spectral ratio and centroid frequency shift methods. Compared with vertical‐seismic‐profiling attenuation, scattering attenuation estimated from sonic waveforms recorded in the reservoir zones is insignificant, and the intrinsic attenuation is almost equivalent to the total attenuation. We attribute this underestimation of the scattering attenuation to the sparse spatial sampling of the sonic logging data at 0.1524 m, which is not sufficient to appropriately estimate the scattering effect in heterogeneous media. The cross‐plots between sonic attenuation and various petrophysical properties show slight dependence between the sonic attenuation and neutron porosity and resistivity in the reservoir zones. However, we can highlight from these plots two zones belonging to the Arab reservoirs. The lower zone corresponds to Arab D reservoir and displays higher sonic intrinsic attenuation than the upper zone (Arab A–C reservoirs) due to higher oil saturation. This highlights the sensitivity of the intrinsic attenuation to the oil saturation.
Amorphous nanosilica particles evoke vascular relaxation through PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling
Authors: Onodera Akira , Yayama Katsutoshi , Tanaka Atsushi , Morosawa Hideto , Furuta Takuya , Takeda Naoya , Kakiguchi Kisa , Yonemura Shigenobu , Yanagihara Itaru , Tsutsumi Yasuo , Kawai Yuichi
Published: May 2016

There have been several reported studies on the distribution and/or toxicity of nanosilica particles. However, the influence of these particles on blood vessels through which they are distributed is poorly understood. Hence, we investigated the effects of nano‐ and micromaterials on blood vessel shrinkage and relaxation. Nanosilica particles with diameters of 70 nm (nSP70) were used as the nanomaterial, and particles of 300 and 1000 nm (nSP300 and mSP1000, respectively) were used as micromaterials. A rat thoracic aorta was used as the test blood vessel. The nano‐ and micromaterials had no effect on vessel shrinkage. Of the nano‐ and micromaterials tested, only nSP70 strongly evoked vascular relaxation. Vascular relaxation evoked by nSP70 was almost completely inhibited by the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor wortmannin. In addition, the selective nitric oxide synthesis inhibitor NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester, which inhibits endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) downstream of PI3K signaling, inhibited vascular relaxation evoked by nSP70. In an analysis using bovine aortic endothelial cells (bAECs), nSP70 phosphorylated protein kinase B (AKT) and eNOS acted downstream of PI3K signaling. PI3K inhibition by wortmannin reduced AKT and eNOS phosphorylation. These results demonstrated that 70‐nm amorphous nanosilica particles evoked vascular relaxation through PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling. Moreover, it was suggested that nanomaterials, in general, control or disrupt vascular function by activating a known signal cascade.
Formation of Barium Zirconate Fibers for High‐Temperature Thermal Insulation Applications
Authors: Yuan Kangkang , Wang Xinqiang , Liu Hongjing , Feng Cong , Liu Benxue , Cai Ningning , Lin Xuejun , Zhu Luyi , Zhang Guanghui , Xu Dong
Published: May 2016

A simple and cost‐effective method was used for the fabrication of BaZrO3 (BZ) fiber. The crystallization of BZ fiber was a simultaneous process with the decomposition of BaCO3 which was formed during the pyrolysis process of the precursor fiber. The surface cracks of the fiber induced by the organic decomposition converted to grain boundaries during the grain growth at high temperatures. A simple model was used to describe the evolution mechanism of the transformation from surface cracks to grain boundaries. High‐temperature resistance test results show that the fiber brick can keep the high‐temperature stability at 1300°C with the density of about 0.23 g/cm3.
Selective Hearing: Physician‐Ownership and Physicians’ Response to New Evidence
Authors: Howard David H. , David Guy , Hockenberry Jason
Published: May 2016

Physicians, acting in their role as experts, are often faced with situations where they must trade off personal and patient welfare. Physicians’ incentives vary based on the organizational environment in which they practice. We use the publication of a major clinical trial, which found that a common knee operation does not improve outcomes for patients with osteoarthritis, as an “informational shock” to gauge the impact of physicians’ agency relationships on treatment decisions. Using a 100% sample of procedures in Florida from 1998 to 2010, we find that publication of the trial reduced procedure volume, but the magnitude of the decline was smaller in physician‐owned surgery centers. Incentives affected physicians’ reactions to evidence.
Identification and Characterization of Pothos latent virus Causing Necrotic Ringspots and Line Patterns on Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yuh‐Kun , Chang Yi‐Shan , Chao Hung‐Yu
Published: May 2016

Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) grown in screenhouses in Taiwan showed ringspots and concentric line patterns on leaves. A virus having isometric particles approximately 30–32 nm in diameter was isolated from affected lisianthus. Combined results of biological, cytological, serological, molecular and phylogenetic analyses show that the virus can be identified as Pothos latent virus (PoLV), genus Aureusvirus, family Tombusviridae. Inoculating the virus on non‐infected lisianthus plants reproduced the symptoms previously observed in the field. So, this is the first report of PoLV causing disease in lisianthus and the first report of the virus in Taiwan.
Production and Application of Syringomycin E as an Organic Fungicide Seed Protectant against Pythium Damping‐off
Authors: Kawasaki Yukie , Nischwitz Claudia , Grilley Michelle M. , Jones Justin , Brown Jason D. , Takemoto Jon Y.
Published: May 2016

Syringomycin E (SRE) is a cyclic lipodepsinonapeptide with potent antifungal activity and is produced by certain strains of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae. In this study, its potential as an organic‐compatible agrofungicide and vegetable seed treatment against the soilborne pathogen Pythium ultimum var. ultimum was examined. A variant of P. syringae pv. syringae strain B301D with enhanced SRE‐producing capabilities was isolated and grown in a bioreactor with SRE yields averaging 50 mg/l in 40 h. SRE was extracted and purified through a large‐scale chromatography system using organic‐compatible processes and reagents. The minimum concentrations of the purified product required to inhibit 50 and 90% of P. ultimum oospore germination were determined as 31.3 and 250 μg/ml, respectively. Drench treatment of cucumber seeds in P. ultimum‐infested potting medium (500 oospores/g) with 50 μg/ml SRE or water with no SRE resulted in 90.2 ± 4.5% and 65.7 ± 4.6% germination rates, respectively. Seed coating with 0.03% (w/w) SRE allowed 65.7 ± 4.6% seedlings to germinate on naturally infested soil while 100.0 ± 0.0% of non‐coated seeds were unable to germinate due to Pythium infection. Organic‐compatible and scalably produced SRE is potentially a novel organic fungicide seed protectant.
Fundamental problems with the cooperative breeding hypothesis. A reply to Burkart & van Schaik
Authors: Thornton A. , McAuliffe K. , Dall S. R. X. , Fernandez‐Duque E. , Garber P. A. , Young A. J.
Published: May 2016

The cooperative breeding hypothesis (CBH) states that cooperative breeding, a social system in which group members help to rear offspring that are not their own, has important socio‐cognitive consequences. Thornton & McAuliffe (2015; henceforth T&M) critiqued this idea on both conceptual and empirical grounds, arguing that there is no reason to predict that cooperative breeding should favour the evolution of enhanced social cognition or larger brains, nor any clear evidence that it does. In response to this critique, Burkart & van Schaik ( henceforth B&vS) attempt to clarify the causal logic of the CBH, revisit the data and raise the possibility that the hypothesis may only apply to primates. They concede that cooperative breeding is unlikely to generate selection pressures for enhanced socio‐cognitive abilities, but argue instead that the CBH operates purely through cooperative breeding reducing social or energetic constraints. Here, we argue that this revised hypothesis is also untenable because: (1) it cannot explain why resources so released would be allocated to cognitive traits per se rather than any other fitness‐related traits, (2) key assumptions are inconsistent with available evidence and (3) ambiguity regarding the predictions leaves it unclear what evidence would be required to falsify it. Ultimately, the absence of any compelling evidence that cooperative breeding is associated with elevated cognitive ability or large brains (indeed data suggest the opposite is true in non‐human primates) also casts doubt on the capacity of the CBH to explain variation in cognitive traits.
Aluminium effects on mechanical properties of cell wall analogues
Authors: McKenna Brigid A. , Wehr J. Bernhard , Mikkelsen Deirdre , Blamey F. Pax C. , Menzies Neal W.
Published: May 2016

Aluminium (Al) toxicity adversely impacts plant productivity in acid soils by restricting root growth and although several mechanisms are involved the physiological basis of decreased root elongation remains unclear. Understanding the primary mechanisms of Al rhizotoxicity is hindered due to the rapid effects of soluble Al on root growth and the close proximity of many cellular components within the cell wall, plasma membrane, cytosol and nucleus with which Al may react. To overcome some of these difficulties, we report on a novel method for investigating Al interactions with Komagataeibacter xylinus bacterial cellulose (BC)‐pectin composites as cell wall analogues. The growth of K. xylinus in the presence of various plant cell wall polysaccharides, such as pectin, has provided a unique in vitro model system with which to investigate the interactions of Al with plant cell wall polysaccharides. The BC‐pectin composites reacted in a similar way with Al as do plant cell walls, providing insights into the effects of Al on the mechanical properties of the BC‐pectin composites as cell wall analogues. Our findings indicated that there were no significant effects of Al (4–160 μM) on the tensile stress, tensile strain or Young's modulus of the composites. This finding was consistent with cellulose, not pectin, being the major load bearing component in BC‐pectin composites, as is also the case in plant cell walls.
Biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticle using fractioned cellular components from eukaryotic algae and cyanobacteria
Authors: Roychoudhury Piya , Bhattacharya Abhishek , Dasgupta Anjan , Pal Ruma
Published: May 2016

In the present investigation fractioned cellular components like intact pigment bearing thylakoids/chloroplasts, carotenoids, protein, polysaccharides were extracted from the cyanobacterium Anabaena sphaerica and green alga Chlorococcum infusionum. Each of these extracts was used separately in search for efficient reducing agents during gold nanoparticle (GNP) production in pro‐ and eukaryotic algal cell systems. The whole biomass and extracted compounds or cellular structures were exposed in 25 mg L−1 aqueous hydrogen tetrachloroaurate solutions separately at room temperature. Isolated viable chloroplasts from C. infusionum and thylakoids from A. sphaerica were found to be able to reduce gold ions. The protein extracts of both strains were also able to synthesize GNP at 4°C. Extracted polysaccharides of the two strains responded differently. Polysaccharides from A. sphaerica showed positive response in GNP synthesis, whereas no change was observed for C. infusionum. The carotenoids extracts from both strains acted like an efficient reducing agent. Initially the reducing efficiency of these extracted components was confirmed by the appearance of purple color in biomass or in experimental media. The GNPs, synthesized within the biomass were extracted by sonication with sodium citrate. The UV–vis spectroscopy of extracted purple colored suspensions and media showed the absorption bands at approximately 530–540 nm indicating a strong positive signal of GNP synthesis. Transmission electro n microscopy determined the size and shapes of the particles. The X‐ray diffraction study of the synthesized GNP revealed that the 2θ values appeared at 38.2°, 44.5°, 64.8° and 77.8°. Amongst all, isolated thylakoids and chloroplast showed only spherical GNP production with variable size range at pH 4. Monodisperse GNPs were also synthesized by isolated thylakoids and chloroplast at pH 9. A detailed morphological change of gold treated biomass was revealed employing scanning electron microscopy. The fluorescent property of gold loaded cells was studied by fluorescence microscopy.
Differential Antimicrobial Susceptibilities of Granulicatella adiacens and Abiotrophia defectiva
Authors: Mushtaq Ammara , Greenwood-Quaintance Kerryl E. , Cole Nicolynn C. , Kohner Peggy C. , Ihde Sherry M. , Strand Gregory J. , Harper Lance W. , Virk Abinash , Patel Robin
Published: May 2016

MICs of 25
Abiotrophia defectiva
and 109
Granulicatella adiacens
isolates were determined by broth microdilution. Using CLSI breakpoints, the susceptibilities of
A. defectiva
and
G. adiacens
isolates were, respectively, 24% and 34% to penicillin, 92% and 22% to ceftriaxone, 48% and 3% to cefepime, 72% and 87% to meropenem, 92% and 10% to cefotaxime, 100% and 97% to levofloxacin, 92% and 80% to clindamycin, and 24% and 50% to erythromycin. All isolates were susceptible to vancomycin. In the penicillin-susceptible subgroup, all
A. defectiva
isolates were susceptible to ceftriaxone; however, 62% of
G. adiacens
isolates were ceftriaxone nonsusceptible.
Quality measures for total ankle replacement, 30-day readmission and reoperation rates within 1 year of surgery: a data linkage study using the NJR data set
Authors: Zaidi Razi , Macgregor Alexander J , Goldberg Andy
Published: May 2016

Objective

To report on the rate of 30-day readmission and the rate of additional or revision surgery within 12 months following total ankle replacement (TAR).

Design

A data-linkage study of the UK National Joint Registry (NJR) data and Hospital Episodes Statistics (HES) database. These two databases were linked in a deterministic fashion. HES episodes 12 months following the index procedure were isolated and analysed. Logistic regression was used to model predictors of reoperation and revision for primary ankle replacement.

Participants

All patients who underwent primary and revision ankle replacements according to the NJR between February 2008 and February 2013.

Results

The rate of 30-day readmission following primary and revision ankle replacement was 2.2% and 1.3%, respectively. In the 12 months following primary and revision ankle replacements, the revision rate (where implants needed to be removed) was 1.2% with increased odds in those orthopaedic units preforming <20 ankle replacements per year and patients with a preoperative fixed equinus deformity. The reoperation other than revision (where implants were not removed) in the 12 months following primary and revision TARs was 6.6% and 9.3%, respectively. Rheumatoid arthritis, cemented prosthesis and high ASA grade significantly increased the odds of reoperation.

Conclusions

TAR has a 30-day readmission rate of 2.2%, which is similar to that of knee replacement but lower than that of total hip replacement. 6.6% of patients undergoing primary TAR require a reoperation within 12 months of the index procedure. Early revision rates are significantly higher in low-volume centres.
Prediction of Muscle Fatigue during Minimally Invasive Surgery Using Recurrence Quantification Analysis
Authors: Keshavarz Panahi Ali , Cho Sohyung
Published: May 2016

Due to its inherent complexity such as limited work volume and degree of freedom, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is ergonomically challenging to surgeons compared to traditional open surgery. Specifically, MIS can expose performing surgeons to excessive ergonomic risks including muscle fatigue that may lead to critical errors in surgical procedures. Therefore, detecting the vulnerable muscles and time-to-fatigue during MIS is of great importance in order to prevent these errors. The main goal of this study is to propose and test a novel measure that can be efficiently used to detect muscle fatigue. In this study, surface electromyography was used to record muscle activations of five subjects while they performed fifteen various laparoscopic operations. The muscle activation data was then reconstructed using recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) to detect possible signs of muscle fatigue on eight muscle groups (bicep, triceps, deltoid, and trapezius). The results showed that RQA detects the fatigue sign on bilateral trapezius at 47.5 minutes (average) and bilateral deltoid at 57.5 minutes after the start of operations. No sign of fatigue was detected for bicep and triceps muscles of any subject. According to the results, the proposed novel measure can be efficiently used to detect muscle fatigue and eventually improve the quality of MIS procedures with reducing errors that may result from overlooked muscle fatigue.
Traumatic Gallbladder Rupture Treated by Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Egawa Noriyuki , Ueda Junji , Hiraki Masatsugu , Ide Takao , Inoue Satoshi , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Noshiro Hirokazu
Published: May 2016

Gallbladder rupture due to blunt abdominal injury is rare. There are few reports of traumatic gallbladder injury, and it is commonly associated with other concomitant visceral injuries. Therefore, it is difficult to diagnose traumatic gallbladder rupture preoperatively when it is caused by blunt abdominal injury. We report a patient who underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy after an exact preoperative diagnosis of traumatic gallbladder rupture. A 43-year-old man was admitted to our hospital due to blunt abdominal trauma. The day after admission, abdominal pain and ascites increased and a muscular defense sign appeared. Percutaneous drainage of the ascites was performed, and the aspirated fluid was bloody and almost pure bile. He was diagnosed with gallbladder rupture by the cholangiography using the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography technique. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed safely, and he promptly recovered. If accumulated fluids contain bile, endoscopic cholangiography is useful not only to diagnose gallbladder injury but also to determine the therapeutic strategy.
Laparoscopic Distal Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Tumors: Does Size Matter?
Authors: Fernández-Cruz Laureano , Poves Ignasi , Pelegrina Amalia , Burdío Fernando , Sánchez-Cabus Santiago , Grande Luis
Published: May 2016

Background: Laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP) for large pancreatic tumors may require prolonged dissection, and this could be associated with increased operative time and intraoperative complications. Methods: From a total cohort of 190 consecutive patients undergoing LDP, 18 patients were found to have pancreatic tumors >5 cm and were included in the retrospective study of prospectively collected data. Three techniques were used to approach the splenic vessels: the superior pancreatic, the inferior supracolic and post-pancreatic transection. Results: Of these 18 patients, 13 were women and 5 were men, the median age was 68 years and their median tumor size 7 cm. Exocrine pancreatic malignancy was diagnosed in 8 patients, 6 patients had neuroendocrine pancreatic tumors and 4 patients cystic neoplasm. The median number of resected nodes was 14. R1 resections for exocrine pancreatic malignancies were found in 50% of patients. Morbidity (grade >II) was found in 16.6% of patients and 30 days mortality in 1 patient. Overall median survival was 50 months and 29 months for patients with exocrine pancreatic malignancies. Conclusions: LDP for large tumors, while technically demanding, is possible without additional morbidity and did not compromise short- and long-term oncological outcomes.
The Mesenteric Approach in Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Nakao Akimasa
Published: May 2016

Isolated pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is an ideal surgery for pancreatic head cancer. In cancer surgery, ‘isolated' means en bloc resection using a non-touch isolation technique. I have been developing isolated PD for pancreatic cancer since 1981. In this operation, the most important and first step is to use a mesenteric approach instead of Kocher's maneuver. The precise surgical techniques of the mesenteric approach are introduced in this paper.
A Review of Techniques for Closure of the Pancreatic Remnant following Distal Pancreatectomy
Authors: Kollár Dániel , Huszár Tamás , Pohárnok Zsolt , Cselovszky Éva , Oláh Attila
Published: May 2016

The prevalence of pancreatic diseases needing surgical intervention is continuously rising. Distal pancreatectomy is performed in the case of pathologies affecting the left side of the pancreas. More and more sophisticated surgical techniques have appeared and an increasing number of published articles discuss the possibilities for closure of the pancreatic remnant. However, the optimum solution is still under debate, as none of the examined techniques have been proven superior in reducing the incidence of the most common surgical complication, the formation of a postoperative pancreatic fistula (PF). Fistula rates have been stationary at 20-30% in the past decades despite the apparent advancement of medicine. This review presents a survey of the relevant articles examining different closure strategies and risk factors to reduce fistula formation rate. International medical publication database search and assessment was carried out to include the findings of studies investigating the efficacy of pancreatic remnant closure techniques to gain a clearer view on the complexity of pancreas fistulas. Emphasis is on indications for surgery, risk factors for postoperative fistula formation and strategies to seal the pancreatic remnant to avoid leakage. Findings suggest that careful patient selection, meticulous surgical techniques are equally important to reduce fistula rates. Ideal closure of the pancreatic remnant is still to be developed, as none of the widespread techniques (hand-sewn suture or staple closure) proved to be statistically significantly superior. Additional closure and covering methods (seromuscular patch, falciform ligament patch, pancreatico-enteric anastomosis, reinforced staplers, fibrin glue etc.) can have profitable effect but strong evidences are yet to come due to small case numbers. The recent introduction of standardized classification of PFs and future prospective randomized trials are more likely to be susceptible to determine if any of the standard or experimental closure techniques is more beneficial than the others.
Heated Humidified High-Flow Nasal Cannula for Weaning from Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in Preterm Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Soonsawad Sasivimon , Tongsawang Numtip , Nuntnarumit Pracha
Published: May 2016

Background: Heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) therapy has been widely used in preterm infants. However, evidence to support its use as a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) weaning method is still controversial. Objectives: We aimed to compare time to wean directly off CPAP vs. weaning by using HHHFNC. Methods: Infants with a gestational age (GA) of <32 weeks who met the predefined criteria for weaning off CPAP, i.e. with a CPAP of ≤6 cm H2O and a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) of ≤0.3 for at least 24 h, were randomly assigned to wean by using HHHFNC or wean directly from CPAP. In the HHHFNC group, flow rate was reduced by 1 liter/min every 24 h to 2-3 liters/min depending on body weight (i.e. < or ≥1,000 g), and then HHHFNC was discontinued. In the CPAP group, pressure was reduced by 1 cm H2O every 24 h until stable on CPAP 4 cm H2O and then discontinued. The primary outcome was the time it took to wean off the use of the CPAP or HHHFNC devices. Results: One-hundred and one infants were enrolled, 51 in the HHHFNC and 50 in the CPAP group. Both groups had similar demographics and respiratory conditions before enrollment. There was no difference in time to successfully wean between the 2 groups [median (IQR): 11 (4-21) days in the HHHFNC group vs. 11 (4-29) days in the CPAP group; p = 0.12]. There were no differences in morbidities or related complications. Infants in the HHHFNC group had significantly less nasal trauma (20 vs. 42%; p = 0.01). Conclusions: In our study, the time to wean off CPAP using HHHFNC was not different from when weaning directly from CPAP.
Type-Specific Identification of Genital Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women with Cytological Abnormality
Authors: Vargas Hernán , Sánchez Jenny P. , Guerrero Mónica L. , Ortiz Leider T. , Rodríguez Dayanne M. , Amaya Jairo , Diaz Liliana P. , Gómez Sandra L. , Golijow Carlos
Published: May 2016

Objectives: To estimate the frequency of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the genotype distribution of HPV among women with a Pap smear showing atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US) attending the Program for the Detection and Control of Cervical Cancer in Bogotá, Colombia. Study Design: Cervical samples from 200 women with an ASC-US Pap smear were analyzed for the presence of HPV DNA and genotype distribution using a commercial molecular technique (Linear Array®; Roche Molecular Systems, USA). Results: HPV infection was found in 140 women (70%). High-risk HPV types were present in 46.4% of the samples; 16.4% showed a low-risk HPV type, and 37.1% showed both. Of the positive samples, 42.9% were infected with a single viral genotype, whereas 57.1% exhibited multiple HPV infections. The most common HPV genotypes were HPV 16, 53, and 52 with a prevalence of 26.4, 16.4, and 13.6%, respectively. Conclusion: The epidemiological characterization of HPV infections described in this study might guide actions for epidemiological surveillance to strengthen the program in Bogotá and to develop appropriate HPV vaccination programs.
Recognition and Reception
Authors: Lim T. N. Timothy
Published: May 2016

Recognition and reception are integral conditions for moving churches towards a fuller realization of shared unity. This article brings the 2013 Joint Working Group text Reception and the Lutheran-Roman Catholic Commission on Unity’s 2013 report From Conflict To Communion into dialogue with the 2017 commemoration of the Reformation with Reformed Christianity, Anabaptists, Brethren, Evangelicals, and Pentecostals. This investigation takes as its backdrop the mutual recognition and reception of churches. The paper reviews recent documents with a view to applying the reception of the quincentenary vision among these churches.
Models for Multiscale Interactions. Part I: A Multicloud Model Parameterization
Authors: Khouider Boualem , Majda Andrew J.
Published: May 2016

In this chapter, a model parameterization for organized tropical convection and convectively coupled tropical waves is presented. The model is based on the main three cloud types, congestus, deep, and stratiform, that are observed to play an important role in the dynamics and morphology of tropical convective systems. The model is based on the self-similarity across scales of tropical convective systems and uses physically sound theory about the mutual interactions between the three cloud types and the environment. Both linear analysis and numerical simulations of convectively coupled waves and the Madden–Julian oscillation are discussed.
Multilingual Accommodation in Namibia
Authors: Stell Gerald , Dragojevic Marko
Published: May 2016

This study examined how six different ethnolinguistic groups in Windhoek, capital of Namibia, adjust their language use during intergroup encounters. Invoking communication accommodation theory, we predicted that relatively low-vitality groups (high-vitality groups) would be inclined towards linguistic convergence (maintenance), but that these general patterns would be moderated by prevailing sociocultural norms and each group’s language proficiency. These hypotheses were largely supported. Relatively low-vitality groups tended to linguistically converge (typically via lingua francas), whereas relatively high-vitality groups tended to engage in linguistic maintenance. This resulted in two distinct patterns of adjustment: (a) symmetrical accommodation in interactions involving groups of relatively equal vitality, typically consisting of mutual convergence to lingua francas or mutual maintenance of a shared heritage language and (b) asymmetrical accommodation in intergroup interactions involving groups of relatively unequal vitality, typically consisting of upward convergence among lower vitality groups, and maintenance among higher vitality groups.
Reading Rape Post Mathura
Authors: Sakhrani Monica
Published: May 2016

The article looks at the changes post the Mathura rape case. Over the years, the law relating to rape has undergone several changes, but the question remains: has the law really changed? I look at judgments of the Supreme Court of India to argue that the same judicial reasoning used in the Mathura rape case are still valid today and the construction of consent/ non consent remains a contentious issue as the changes in the law have failed to address the issue of difference between passive submission and consent as well as the medicalization of consent. The article argues that the reason why changes in law have not led to change in the conviction rate is because the amendments to the rape law do not move away from this circular discourse of consent and non-consent as it is set by the stranglehold of the very structure of legal discourse and the impossibility of having a successful law reform by moving away from such discourse. The answer I suggest is in looking at the law relating to consent in cases other than rape, that is, in property and contract which are based on mutuality of intent. The article concludes by stating that the rape law needs reconstitution with the woman as the subject of the law and not its object.
Stochastic thermal shock problem and study of wave propagation in the theory of generalized thermoelastic diffusion
Authors: Sherief Hany H , El-Maghraby Nasser M , Allam Allam A
Published: May 2016

A one-dimensional problem for a thermoelastic half-space is considered within the context of the theory of generalized thermoelastic diffusion with one relaxation time. The bounding surface is traction free and subjected to a time dependent thermal shock. Two types of boundary conditions are considered, deterministic and stochastic. A permeating substance is considered in contact with the bounding surface. Laplace transform technique is used to obtain the solution in the transformed domain by using a direct approach. Analysis of wave propagation in the medium is presented. The solution in the physical domain for temperature, displacement, stress, concentration and chemical potential are obtained in an approximate manner. Numerical results are carried out and represented graphically.
Imagined contact encourages prosocial behavior towards outgroup members
Authors: Meleady Rose , Seger Charles R.
Published: May 2016

Imagined contact is a relatively new technique designed to focus the accumulated knowledge of over 500 studies of intergroup contact into a simple and versatile prejudice-reduction intervention. While it is now clear that imagined contact can improve intergroup attitudes, its ability to change actual intergroup behavior is less well established. Some emerging findings provide cause for optimism with nonverbal, and unobtrusive measures of behavior. This paper extends this work by adopting methods from behavioral economics to examine more deliberative behavior. Participants believed they were playing a prisoner’s dilemma with an outgroup member. They could choose whether to cooperate or compete with the other player. In three studies, we provide reliable evidence that imagined contact (vs. control) successfully encouraged more prosocial, cooperative choices. In the third study we show that this effect is mediated by increased trust towards the outgroup member. The findings demonstrate that imagined contact interventions can have a tangible impact on volitional intergroup behaviors.
Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting for symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tsivgoulis Georgios , Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Magoufis Georgios , Kargiotis Odysseas , Papadimitropoulos Georgios , Vadikolias Konstantinos , Karapanayiotides Theodoros , Ellul John , Alexandrov Anne W. , Mitsias Panayiotis D. , Alexandrov Andrei V.
Published: May 2016

Objectives:

The cumulative safety and efficacy measures of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS) for secondary stroke prevention in patients with symptomatic intracranial arterial stenosis (sICAS) have not previously been evaluated using a meta-analytical approach.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and random effects meta-analysis of all available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the safety and efficacy of PTAS (in comparison with medical therapy) for sICAS.

Results:

Three RCTs (678 total patients) were included in the quantitative analysis. PTAS was associated with a higher risk of recurrent ischemic stroke in the territory of qualifying artery both within 30 days [risk ratio (RR) = 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–4.43] and 1 year (RR = 1.92, 95% CI 1.10–3.36). PTAS was also related to a higher risk of any ischemic stroke within 30 days from the index event (RR = 2.08, 95% CI 1.17–3.71). The risk for intracranial hemorrhage was found to be higher in PTAS patients both within 30 days (RR = 10.60, 95% CI 1.98–56.62) and 1 year (RR = 8.15, 95% CI 1.50–44.34). The composite outcome of any stroke or death within 1 year (RR = 2.29, 95% CI 1.13–4.66) and 2 years (RR = 1.52, 95% CI 1.04–2.21) was higher in PTAS than in medical therapy. PTAS was associated with a higher risk of any stroke or death within 2 years in the sICAS subgroup located in posterior circulation (RR = 2.37, 95% CI 1.27–4.42).

Conclusions:

PTAS is associated with adverse early and long-term outcomes and should not be recommended in patients with sICAS. Further research to identify subgroups of patients who could also serve as candidates for future interventional trials along with efforts to reduce procedure-related complications are needed.
Margaret MacMillan, The War that Ended Peace. How Europe Abandoned Peace for the First World War, Λονδίνο, Profile Books, 2013
Authors: ΛΕΜΟΝΙΔΟΥ ΕΛΛΗ
Published: May 2016

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