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Cyclic dimeric adenosine monophosphate (c‐di‐AMP) has been well studied in bacteria, including those of the genus Streptococcus, since the first recognition of this dinucleotide in 2008. Streptococci possess a sole diadenylate cyclase, CdaA, and distinct c‐di‐AMP phosphodiesterases. Interestingly, cdaA is required for viability of some streptococcal species but not all when streptococci are grown in standard laboratory media. Bacteria of this genus also have distinct c‐di‐AMP effector proteins, diverse c‐di‐AMP‐signaling pathways, and subsequent biological outcomes. In streptococci, c‐di‐AMP may influence bacterial growth, morphology, biofilm formation, competence program, drug resistance, and bacterial pathogenesis. c‐di‐AMP secreted by streptococci has also been shown to interact with the mammalian host and induces immune responses including type I interferon production. In this review, we summarize the reported c‐di‐AMP networks in seven species of the genus Streptococcus, which cause diverse clinical manifestations, and propose future perspectives to investigate the signaling molecule in these streptococcal pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The majority of allied health services are delivered by small, private practices in the primary care setting with limited government funding. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdowns these practices were subject to the same health orders as any other private business with only 'essential services' permitted to remain open. Research aim: We set out to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and associated public health measures, on the financial viability of private allied health practices. Methods: Thirteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with primary care allied health practice owners and managers in Sydney. Data were analysed thematically. Findings: All of the interviewees reported experiencing the stress of balancing precarious finances caused by reduced and/or fluctuating patient demand. Patients' reluctance to seek care was compounded by ambiguity around whether allied health services were 'essential'. Manual therapies were particularly vulnerable to financial stress because their capacity to transition to telehealth and access to government funding were limited. Conversely, psychologists reported demand for their services exceeded what they could provide. Study implications: The findings are indicative of primary care allied health's peripheral status in Australia's primary care landscape. Greater priority to the funding and integration of primary care allied health is needed in primary care policy. What is known about the topic? Most allied health services in Australia are delivered by small, private practices in the primary care setting with limited government funding. What does this paper add? The findings indicate that allied health has a peripheral status in Australia's primary care landscape. What are the implications for practitioners? Greater priority to the funding and integration of allied health is needed in primary care policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community health workers (CHWs) have reported a paucity of farmworker-specific education materials for use during health outreach to farmworkers. To improve our understanding of the availability of topically and culturally relevant health education materials for farmworkers, we identified 15 key health topics to examine across four major online health information services: MedlinePlus.gov, Migrant Clinicians Network, National Agricultural Safety Database, and National Center for Farmworker Health. We established inter-coder reliability and conducted coding for health education materials by topic and identified the percentage of materials specifically designed for farmworkers. The availability of materials ranged from, on the low end, accessing clinic services, having one health education material total across all four online services, to alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, having 50 materials across the four online services. Online health information services ranged from 0.6% of the materials designed specifically for farmworkers (MedlinePlus.gov) to 42.9% (Migrant Clinicians Network). The findings from this study underscore the need to support community-based projects centering CHWs' roles as advocates and facilitators to develop educational materials for farmworker health outreach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cuscuta gronovii species complex (sensu lato, s.l.) is a North American group of species that belong to C. sect. Oxycarpae of subgenus Grammica. Members of C. gronovii s.l. are often associated with riparian or wet habitats, and their delimitation has been problematic historically. DNA sequences from multiple plastid and nuclear ribosomal non-coding regions were used to reconstruct evolutionary relationships among taxa. Molecular phylogeny supported the resurrection of C. saururi, a taxon that has been treated either as C. gronovii var. latiflora or a nomenclatural synonym of C. gronovii var. gronovii. Cuscuta saururi was inferred to be sister to C. cephalanthi, but the relationships among the rest of taxa, although forming a clade with moderate support, remained largely unresolved. Thus, the species limits of C. gronovii s.l. aggregate were also comprehensively investigated through a morphometric study. Plants with 4-merous flowers from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Canada, which were previously thought to be C. cephalanthi, were described as a new species, C. acadiana. Cuscuta acadiana, although fertile and producing abundant seeds, is unusual in that the majority of its pollen grains intergrade from zonocolpate, syncolpate, or pantocolpate, with variously shaped or twisted ectoapertures. Cuscuta gronovii var. calyptrata, a widely accepted but virtually unknown taxon, was typified and included in all the analyses. Cuscuta umbrosa was treated as a variety of C. gronovii (var. curta), and C. rostrata was maintained as a species. An identification key, detailed descriptions, illustrations, and a summary of geographical distribution, ecology, and conservation status were provided for all the members of C. gronovii s.l. The only taxon of this species complex found to be weedy, especially in cranberries, was C. gronovii var. gronovii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aboriginal participatory action research (APAR) has an ethical focus that corrects the imbalances of colonisation through participation and shared decision-making to position people, place, and intention at the centre of research. APAR supports researchers to respond to the community's local rhythms and culture. APAR supports researchers to respond to the community's local rhythms and culture. First Nations scholars and their allies do this in a way that decolonises mainstream approaches in research to disrupt its cherished ideals and endeavours. How these knowledges are co-created and translated is also critically scrutinised. We are a team of intercultural researchers working with community and mainstream health service providers to improve service access, responsiveness, and Aboriginal client outcomes. Our article begins with an overview of the APAR literature and pays homage to the decolonising scholarship that champions Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing. We present a research program where Aboriginal Elders, as cultural guides, hold the research through storying and cultural experiences that have deepened relationships between services and the local Aboriginal community. We conclude with implications of a community-led engagement framework underpinned by a relational methodology that reflects the nuances of knowledge translation through a co-creation of new knowledge and knowledge exchange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of general practice in delivering Australia's coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine, and the impact on practice finances and workforce. Methods: Eighteen semi-structured interviews with owners and practice managers of general practices in Greater Sydney between June and August 2021 were conducted. Results: Practices reported early enthusiasm for the vaccine rollout and engaged in large-scale staffing and infrastructure adaptations to manage increased vaccination workload. Although some practices reported increased income related to vaccination, nearly all reported increased costs. Lack of timely and transparent communication between primary care and policymakers was a major concern for practices. Conclusions: The success of Australia's COVID-19 vaccine rollout relied on the goodwill of general practices. Participation in the COVID-19 vaccine rollout resulted in increased stress, increased administration workload, and reduced financial viability for many practices. What is known about the topic? Most of Australia's general practices participated in the COVID-19 vaccination program. What does this paper add? Practices rapidly managed large-scale adaptation and capital costs to participate in the vaccine program. Practices reported increased patient activity, administrative workload and stress, and most reported worsening financial position through the vaccine rollout. What are the implications for practitioners? The COVID-19 vaccine program may have long-term impacts on primary care finances and workforce, and on the willingness of practices to participate in future reform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explain how the Primary Health Network commissioning model works, and factors likely to affect its success. Methods: The study focuses on the delivery of primary healthcare services by one Primary Health Network (PHN) in Australia. The qualitative case study is informed by a desk top review, interviews (n = 49) and observations with key stakeholders involved in commissioning and delivering primary healthcare services in the region. Results: The study provides several insights about the PHN model. First, conceptually, the PHN commissioning model is well suited to identifying and meeting local primary healthcare priorities, bringing together a range of stakeholders involved in healthcare provision. Second, although primary healthcare services are difficult to specify and measure, PHN staff use their content knowledge and experience, and relationships with providers and the community, to design services that meet the needs of consumers. Third, the success of this model may be undermined by short funding cycles and short lead-times, a focus on national rather than local priorities, and continual reductions in operational funding. This may result in more procedural forms of contract management, which may mean that changes in service need, provision and quality go unnoticed. Conclusions: This study shows that although clever in design, the PHN model may not meet its full potential. Given continual changes to the model, including funding, further independent research should be undertaken to understand how PHNs adjust and whether services continue to meet the needs of the local community. What is known about the topic? Primary Health Networks commission a range of services. Little is known about how the commissioning model works and what enables its success. What does this paper add? While elements of an effective model exist, this paper finds that the its effectiveness is contingent on stability, funding cycles, and sufficient resources to manage contracts. What are the implications for practitioners? This paper identifies the risks to the effective implementation of commissioning and how they may be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in multiple changes in the delivery of general practice services. In response to the threat of the pandemic and in order to keep their businesses safe and viable, general practices have rapidly moved to new models of care, embraced Medicare-funded telehealth and responded to uncertain availability of personal protective equipment with innovation. These changes have shown the adaptability of general practice, helped keep patients and practice staff safe, and undoubtedly reduced community transmission and mortality. The pandemic, and the response to it, has emphasised the potential dangers of existing fragmentation within the Australian health system, and is affecting the viability of general practice. These impacts on primary care highlight the need for improved integration of health services, should inform future pandemic planning, and guide the development of Australia's long-term national health plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Introduction of effective systemic therapies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has demonstrated survival benefit. However, chemotherapy remains underutilized in these patients. We sought to investigate the implications of disparities on the trends in utilization of chemotherapy. Methods: A retrospective study using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database identified patients who underwent surgical resection for PDAC from 1998 to 2014. Clinicopathologic, demographic, racial, and geographical factors were analyzed to assess associations with receipt of chemotherapy and disease-specific survival. Results: A total of 15,585 patients were included in the study. A majority (N = 9953, 63.9%) received chemotherapy. Factors associated with poorer odds of receiving chemotherapy included older age (p < 0.001), African-American race (p = 0.003), and living in the Southwest region of the USA (p < 0.001). Married patients were at higher odds of receiving chemotherapy (all p < 0.001). Receipt of chemotherapy was independently associated with improved disease-specific survival (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Receipt of chemotherapy results in an improved survival in patients with resected PDAC. Demographic, racial, and geographic factors influence the rate of receipt of chemotherapy. Despite prior reports, these trends have not changed over the recent decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the neural bases for perceptual-cognitive superiority in a soccer anticipation task using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Thirty-nine participants lay in an MRI scanner while performing a video-based task in which they predicted an oncoming opponent's movements. Video clips were occluded at four time points, and participants were grouped according to in-task performance. Early occlusion reduced prediction accuracy significantly for all participants, as did the opponent's execution of a deceptive maneuver; however, high-skill participants were significantly more accurate than their low-skill counterparts under deceptive conditions. This perceptual-cognitive superiority was associated with greater activation of cortical and subcortical structures involved in executive function and oculomotor control. The contributions of the present findings to an existing neural model of anticipation in sport are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the neural bases for perceptual-cognitive superiority in a soccer anticipation task using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Thirty-nine participants lay in an MRI scanner while performing a video-based task in which they predicted an oncoming opponent's movements. Video clips were occluded at four time points, and participants were grouped according to in-task performance. Early occlusion reduced prediction accuracy significantly for all participants, as did the opponent's execution of a deceptive maneuver; however, high-skill participants were significantly more accurate than their low-skill counterparts under deceptive conditions. This perceptual-cognitive superiority was associated with greater activation of cortical and subcortical structures involved in executive function and oculomotor control. The contributions of the present findings to an existing neural model of anticipation in sport are highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: During the last decade, the use of mobile electroencephalography (EEG) devices has furthered understanding of the mechanisms that underlie psychophysical and affective responses during the execution of gross movements (e.g. walking and cycling). Such devices can also be used to shed new light on the mechanisms that underlie attention allocation, fatigue-related symptoms, emotional reactions, and behavioural outcomes associated with physical activity programmes. This advancement could, potentially, herald a new era for the field of sport and exercise psychology, wherein researchers will be able to investigate athletic performance and exercise behaviour from a different perspective. Objective: In this review, we explore some of the most recent approaches used to measure electrical activity in the brain during exercise. Practical recommendations: We provide an overview of the practical issues that researchers face in this field, such as dealing with artefacts elicited by body and cable movements and how to process the biological signal. We also review methods that researchers can employ to prevent electrical artefacts from compromising the fidelity of data. We make a case for assessing psychological and psychobiological parameters in tandem with EEG in order to arrive at a fuller understanding of exercise-related phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Solid pseudopapillary tumors (SPTs) are rare, benign tumors of the pancreas that present as heterogeneous masses. We sought to evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes of surgical resected SPTs. Patients managed via initial surveillance were compared to those who underwent upfront resection.Methods: A prospectively maintained institutional database was used to identify patients who underwent surgical resection for a SPT between 1988 and 2018. Data on clinicopathological features and outcomes were collected and analyzed.Results: Seventy-eight patients underwent surgical resection for SPT during the study period. The mean age was 34.0 ± 14.6 years and a majority were female (N = 67, 85.9%) and white (N = 46, 58.9%). Thirty patients (37.9%) were diagnosed incidentally. Imaging-based presumed diagnosis was SPT in 49 patients (62.8%). A majority were located in the body or tail of the pancreas (N = 47, 60.3%), and 48 patients (61.5%) underwent a distal pancreatectomy. The median tumor size was 4.0 cm (IQR, 3.0-6.0), nodal disease was present in three patients (3.9%), and R0 resection was performed in all patients. No difference was observed in clinicopathological features and outcomes between patients who were initially managed via surveillance and those who underwent upfront resection. None of the patients under surveillance had nodal disease or metastasis at the time of resection; however, one of them developed recurrence of disease 95.1 months after resection. At a median follow-up of 36.1 months (IQR, 8.1-62.1), 77 (%) patients were alive and one patient (1.3%) had a recurrence of disease at 95.1 months after resection and subsequently died due to disease.Conclusions: SPTs are rare pancreatic tumors that are diagnosed most frequently in young females. While a majority are benign and have an indolent course, malignant behavior has been observed. Surgical resection can result in exceptional outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Improvement in imaging has resulted in frequent diagnosis of benign and premalignant pancreatic tumors. Pancreatic nerve sheath (PNS) tumors are one of the rarest pancreatic tumors. Literature on PNS is limited and their biology is poorly understood. Here, we report the largest series of PNS tumors to date and review the literature to evaluate the current data available on PNS tumors.Methods: An institutional database was used to identify patients who underwent resection for PNS tumors. Clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes of these patients were reported. Furthermore, a review of literature was performed.Results: From January 1994 through December 2016, seven patients underwent resection for PNS tumors. The median age was 57.7 years (IQR, 44.9-61.9) and the sex was approximately equally distributed (male = 4; 57.1%). Three (42.9%) patients were diagnosed incidentally and six (85.7%) were misdiagnosed as having other pancreatic tumors. The median tumor size was 2.1 (IQR 1.8-3.0) cm and six (85.7%) had no nodal disease. At a median follow-up of 15.5 (IQR 13.7-49.3) months, six patients were alive without evidence of disease and one patient was lost to follow-up. The literature review identified 49 studies reporting 54 patients with PNS tumors. Forty-six were misdiagnosed as having other pancreatic tumors. The median tumor size was 3.6 (range 1-20) cm, nodal disease was present in six patients (22.2%), and no patient had distant metastatic disease. At the time of last follow-up, all patients were free of disease.Conclusion: This is the largest single institution series on PNS tumors reported to date. These tumors are rare and are often misdiagnosed, given their radiological characteristics. PNS tumors have a benign course of disease and surgical resection results in favorable long-term outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people are more likely to experience mental health issues or end their life by suicide than non‐Aboriginal youth, but are less likely to access mental health services for support. Systemic change is required if mainstream youth mental health services are to be relevant and culturally secure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Methods: Building Bridges (2017‐2019) is a three‐year participatory action research project being conducted in partnership with the Nyoongar community and three mainstream youth mental health services in Perth, Western Australia. The project involves Nyoongar Elders and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people working directly with senior management and key staff of youth mental health services to co‐design, implement and evaluate a framework for systems change. The aim of the project is to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people's engagement with services and improve mental health outcomes for young people and their families. Results: This paper outlines the engagement process that underpinned the first phase of the project. Our research methods are premised by an investment in establishing safe spaces for the Elders, young people and service staff to engage in open, honest dialogue. We present two key activities that illustrate this process of building trust and deepening understanding, namely: spending time "On Country" and engaging in a "storying" process. Conclusions: Building Bridges demonstrates the centrality of trusting relationships for systemic change and the way in which meaningful engagement is at the core of both the process and the outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to concerns over the effects of oil production activities on groundwater quality in California, chemical, isotopic, dissolved gas and age-dating tracers were analyzed in samples collected from public-supply wells and produced-water sites in the Fruitvale oil field (FVOF). A combination of newly collected and historical data was used to determine whether oil formation fluids have mixed with groundwater used for public supply and what the potential pathways for the migration of oil formation fluids into groundwater may be. Stable isotopes of water (δ2H and δ18O) and age dating (3H, 3He trit , SF 6 and 14C) tracers in groundwater samples were consistent with the Kern River being the main source of recharge to aquifers. The distribution of major ion concentrations and pH with distance from the Kern River indicate that natural processes were the primary controls on groundwater salinity. Two of 14 groundwater samples had δ13C-DIC values (−2.4 to +1.9 per mil) consistent with mixtures of <1 to about 9 percent oil-field water. Concentrations of TDS in groundwater samples were generally much lower (129–1,200 milligrams per liter (mg/l), median 216 mg/l) than produced water samples (586–24,930 mg/l, median 2,717 mg/l), suggesting that any mixing of oil-field water with groundwater has not significantly affected groundwater salinity. Trace concentrations of thermogenic methane were detected in three groundwater samples that did not have dissolved inorganic or isotopic indicators consistent with mixing of oil-field water, suggesting that stray gases may have migrated from the subsurface via preferential pathways such as leaky well bores into groundwater aquifers. Low concentrations of petroleum hydrocarbons were detected in samples that also contained anthropogenic VOCs and components of post- and pre-1950s recharge, indicating that petroleum hydrocarbons could have come from subsurface and/or surface sources. Overall, the results of this study indicated that groundwater currently used for public supply in the FVOF was of good quality with little, if any, effects from oil production activities. This may be due in part to the relatively rapid flushing of the aquifer system by recharge from the Kern River. • Groundwater quality in an aquifer used for public supply in proximity to oil production. • Compiled historical data and collected new groundwater and produced water samples. • Age dating, isotopic and chemical tracers used to determine mixing between groundwater and oil formation fluids. • Effects from oil production activities on groundwater quality appear to be minimal. • Long term oil production has not adversely impacted groundwater quality perhaps due in part to rapid recharge from surface water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Lifejacket wear is strongly correlated to increased survivability of incidents. • Increased fatality rates are associated with winter months and colder seas. • Incidents involving scuba diving and angling from shore have high fatality rates. • Man overboard is the most serious type of vessel incident. Abstract Drowning and fatalities at sea are a large concern globally. In the UK, many sea rescues are performed by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, and this study investigates 6 years' worth of their rescue data to better understand causation of drowning and what makes an incident at sea high risk. A Poisson model is applied to numerous factors recorded as part of each rescue, including environmental conditions (visibility, sea state, etc.), lifejacket wear, and response times for rescue. Increased lifejacket wear is shown to be significantly correlated with lower fatality rates across all spectrum of activities. Survivability among those casualties wearing life jackets was 94%. A seasonal signal is clearly present, with a higher proportion of life at risk incidents occurring during winter months, and a higher than predicted number of fatalities during this time. The analysis identifies high risk groups of beach/sea users, with one of the most at risk being people fishing from shore. Incident survivability is shown to decrease at different rates per activity, as time to rescue increases. This study provides clear evidence that a co-ordinated approach to sea safety is required, and suggests that increased lifejacket wear among coastal and marine users would have a dramatic effect on reducing the number of drowning related deaths each year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Approximately, 20% of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma have resectable disease at diagnosis. Given improvements in locoregional and systemic therapies, some patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC) can now undergo successful resection. The outcomes of patients with BRPC after neoadjuvant therapy remain unclear.Methods: A prospectively maintained single-institution database was utilized to identify patients with BRPC who were managed at the Johns Hopkins Pancreas Multidisciplinary Clinic (PMDC) between 2013 and 2016. BRPC was defined as any tumor that presented with radiographic evidence of the involvement of the portal vein (PV) or superior mesenteric vein (SMV) that was deemed to be technically resectable (with or without the need for reconstruction), or the abutment (< 180° involvement) of the common hepatic artery (CHA) or superior mesenteric artery (SMA), in the absence of involvement of the celiac axis (CA). We collected data on treatment, the course of the disease, resection rate, and survival.Results: Of the 866 patients evaluated at the PMDC during the study period, 151 (17.5%) were staged as BRPC. Ninety-six patients (63.6%) underwent resection. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was administered to 142 patients (94.0%), while 78 patients (51.7%) received radiation therapy in the neoadjuvant setting. The median overall survival from the date of diagnosis, of resected BRPC patients, was 28.8 months compared to 14.5 months in those who did not (p < 0.001). Factors associated with increased chance of surgical resection included lower ECOG performance status (p = 0.011) and neck location of the tumor (p = 0.001). Forty-seven patients with BRPC (31.1%) demonstrated progression of disease; surgical resection was attempted and aborted in 12 patients (7.9%). Eight patients (5.3%) were unable to tolerate chemotherapy; six had disease progression and two did not want to pursue surgery. Lastly, four patients (3.3%) were conditionally unresectable due to medical comorbidities at the time of diagnosis due to comorbidities and failed to improve their status and subsequently had progression of the disease.Conclusion: After initial management, 31.1% of patients with BRPC have progression of disease, while 63.6% of all patients successfully undergo resection, which was associated with improved survival. Factors associated with increased likelihood of surgical resection include lower ECOG performance status and tumor location in the neck. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PCGF2 encodes the polycomb group ring finger 2 protein, a transcriptional repressor involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and embryogenesis. PCGF2 is a component of the polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1), a multiprotein complex which controls gene silencing through histone modification and chromatin remodelling. We report the phenotypic characterization of 13 patients (11 unrelated individuals and a pair of monozygotic twins) with missense mutations in PCGF2. All the mutations affected the same highly conserved proline in PCGF2 and were de novo , excepting maternal mosaicism in one. The patients demonstrated a recognizable facial gestalt, intellectual disability, feeding problems, impaired growth, and a range of brain, cardiovascular, and skeletal abnormalities. Computer structural modeling suggests the substitutions alter an N-terminal loop of PCGF2 critical for histone biding. Mutant PCGF2 may have dominant-negative effects, sequestering PRC1 components into complexes that lack the ability to interact efficiently with histones. These findings demonstrate the important role of PCGF2 in human development and confirm that heterozygous substitutions of the Pro65 residue of PCGF2 cause a recognizable syndrome characterized by distinctive craniofacial, neurological, cardiovascular, and skeletal features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated strategies of health promotion at the municipal level are receiving particular attention in public health policy and practice in Germany. These strategies are intended to provide a coordinated approach to health promotion during the entire lifespan, with a particular focus on vulnerable communities. They are also intended to be participatory in both their design and implementation, involving all sectors of the social welfare, educational and healthcare systems, civil society, and the general public. PartKommPlus—German Research Consortium for Healthy Communities is examining such strategies using participatory forms of research. The goal is to determine how participation can best be planned and implemented and what effects this participation has. In this article the work of PartKommPlus from the first funding phase (2015–2018) will be described with particular attention to the lessons learned and the forms of impact which are being considered as part of the participatory research process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image guided drug delivery using imageable thermosensitive liposomes (iTSLs) and high intensity focused ultrasound (FUS or HIFU) has attracted interest as a novel and non-invasive route to targeted delivery of anti-cancer therapeutics. FUS-induced hyperthermia is used as an externally applied “trigger” for the release of a drug cargo from within thermosensitive drug carriers. It is suggested that sub-ablative hyperthermia significantly modifies the permeability of tumour vasculature and enhances nanoparticle uptake. Here we describe the preparation and use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and near infrared fluorescence (NIRF) labelled thermosensitive liposomes for imaging and tracking of biodistribution and drug release in a murine cancer model. We prepared iTSLs to encapsulate topotecan (Hycamtin®), a chemotherapeutic agent which when released in tumours can be monitored by an increase in its intrinsic drug fluorescence. FUS was applied using feedback via subcutaneously placed fine-wire thermocouples to maintain and monitor hyperthermic temperatures. iTSL accumulation was detected within tumours using NIRF imaging immediately after liposome administration. Mild FUS-induced hyperthermia (3 min at 42 °C, 30 min post i.v. administration) greatly enhanced iTSLs uptake. A co-localised enhancement of topotecan fluorescence emission was also observed immediately after application of FUS indicating rapid triggered drug release. The phenomena of increased iTSL accumulation and concomitant topotecan release appeared to be amplified by a second mild hyperthermia treatment applied one hour after the first. MRI in vivo also confirmed enhanced iTSLs uptake due to the FUS treatments. Our imaging results indicate the effects of hyperthermia on the uptake of carriers and drug. FUS-induced hyperthermia combined with real time imaging could be used as a tool for tumour targeted drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An MEMS reconfigurable broadband pixelated patch antenna is introduced for conformal applications, such as in aircrafts or vehicles. The proposed design considers structural fiberglass composite, Rohacell foam, structural epoxy, ultrathin graphite fibers, and conductive epoxy to be the materials of choice. A nonconventional method of MEMS switch installation is developed and used, which requires connecting the MEMS chips to the antenna or feed traces using very small amounts of conductive epoxy and then curing the specimen in an oven. The proposed fabrication and assembly process is a low temperature process and is not limited in terms of specimen size. The proposed reconfigurable antenna has three reconfiguration states that allow it to operate from 1.13 to 1.7 GHz with 3–7 dBi gain, excellent radiation patterns, and low cross polarization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanism of polycation cytotoxicity and the relationship to polymer molecular weight is poorly understood. To gain an insight into this important phenomenon a range of newly synthesised uniform (near monodisperse) linear polyethylenimines, commercially available poly( l -lysine)s and two commonly used PEI-based transfectants (broad 22 kDa linear and 25 kDa branched) were tested for their cytotoxicity against the A549 human lung carcinoma cell line. Cell membrane damage assays (LDH release) and cell viability assays (MTT) showed a strong relationship to dose and polymer molecular weight, and increasing incubation times revealed that even supposedly “non-toxic” low molecular weight polymers still damage cell membranes. The newly proposed mechanism of cell membrane damage is acid catalysed hydrolysis of lipidic phosphoester bonds, which was supported by observations of the hydrolysis of DOPC liposomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to compare event-related potentials (ERPs) to different transitions between emotional and neutral facial expressions. The stimuli contained a single transition between two different images of the same face, giving a strong impression of changing expression though apparent motion whilst eliminating change in irrelevant stimulus variables such as image contrast or identity. Stimuli were calibrated for intensity, valence and perceived emotion category and only trials where the target emotion was correctly identified were included. In the first experiment, a magnification change (zoom) was a control condition. Transitions from neutral to angry expressions produced a more negative N1 with longer peak latency, and more positive P2 than did an increase in magnification. Critically, response to neutral following angry, relative to neutral following magnified, showed a generally more negative ERP with a delayed N1 peak and reduced P2 amplitude. In the second experiment, comparison of neutral-happy and neutral-frightened transitions showed significantly different ERPs to emotional expression change. Responses to the reversed direction of a transition (happy-neutral and frightened-neutral) were much reduced. Unlike the comparison of angry-neutral with magnified-neutral, there were minimal differences in the responses to neutral following happy and neutral following frightened. The results demonstrate in a young adult sample the directionality of responses to facial expression dynamics, and suggest a separation of neural mechanisms for detecting expression changes and magnification changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Image guided drug delivery has gained significant attention during the last few years. Labelling nanoparticles or macromolecules and monitoring their fate in the body provides information that can be used to modulate their biodistribution and improve their pharmacokinetics. In this study we label antibodies and monitor their distribution in the tumours post intravenous injection. Using Focused Ultrasound (FUS, a non-invasive method of hyperthermia) we increase the tumour temperature to 42 °C for a short period of time (3–5 min) and we observe an increased accumulation of labelled antibody. Repetition of focused ultrasound induced hyperthermic treatment increased still further the accumulation of the antibodies in the tumour. This treatment also augmented the accumulation of other macromolecules non-specific to the tumour, such as IgG and albumin. These effects may be used to enhance the therapeutic efficiency of antibodies and/or targeted nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the study on the effect of serum collection tube on steroid hormone stability. It states that the study used two tube types and collected serum samples from healthy volunteers. It notes the progressive and statistically significant decrease in androstenedione concentration from D0 to d5. It suggest the use of plain serum collection tubes to optimize conditions and lessen pre-analytical error.

Objective:Mental health clinicians have struggled to recognise the need to understand an Aboriginal worldview and how human interactions are shaped bysocial relationshipsin kin-based societies. This paper considers the findings of Looking Forward Project, a participatory action research study aimed at investigating the serious disconnection between mental health and drug and alcohol service providers and Aboriginal families living in Perth, Western Australia. Method:Our research methods and knowledge exchange were premised on theshared storytellingbetween Aboriginal Elders, researchers, senior management and clinicians. Study participants included eighteen local Elders and approximately seventy staff across eleven mental health and drug and alcohol organisations, over four years. Elders have been the primary drivers of the research design. This paper is shaped by the storying process. Results:The study revealed the lack of trust between service providers and Aboriginal families is predominantly due to the lack of understanding by service providers of the criticaldifference in social relationships.The lack of trust creates a barrier to accessing services and compromises the quality of response by services. Humility, inquisitiveness and openness are essential qualities for meaningful engagement and sustainable relationships. Discussion:The rebuilding of trust requires the development of meaningful relationships in order to break down the barriers so as to increase access and develop culturally secure responses by services. When clinicians adopt these essential qualities they will develop a reflective practice that enables them to be more adaptable in their work with Aboriginal clients and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last decade has seen a series of advances in the field of liquid chromatography that have resulted in improvements for many clinical diagnostic services. These innovations have included the expansion of superficially porous particle columns, new or improved stationary phase options, and user-friendly multiple-channel high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) instrument options that allow sequential analysis -- a boon for low- and moderate-throughput laboratories with limited hardware. As a result, diagnostic services are able to offer faster turnaround times and measure analytes in patient types and disease states that were previously problematic. This article presents examples of the impact these innovations have had in a number of hospital settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of ice and snow on road pavement surfaces is a recurring problem, creating hazardous driving conditions, restricting public mobility as well as having adverse economic effects. It would be desirable to develop new and improved ways of modifying the pavement surface, to prevent or at least delay the build-up of ice and to weaken the pavement-ice bond, and making the ice which forms easier to remove. This development could lead to economic, environmental and safety benefits for winter service providers and road users. This paper describes how environmental scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the mechanism by which de-icing chemicals, added as a filler replacement to bituminous materials, can be transferred to the pavement surface. The paper assesses the potential for chemical modifications to reduce the adhesion between ice and the pavement surface by means of work of adhesion calculations, based on surface energy parameters and a new physical ice bond test. The paper also examines the influence that the chemical modifications have on the durability of the pavement surface course. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Judicial elections have been controversial for many years. The debate surrounding them has heightened as spending in judicial elections has increased in recent years. Critics of judicial elections fear that the electoral process compromises judicial impartiality and independence. Supporters argue that such fears are overblown and that democratically elected judiciaries are superior to ones appointed by other branches of government. Some states have attempted to regulate judicial elections in order to preserve the appearance and reality of judicial impartiality. In particular, states have sought to limit the content of judicial candidates' speech during elections. Until recently, the Court has not favored such efforts. However, in Williams-Yulee v. Florida Bar, the Court for the first time upheld a state's regulation on judicial candidates' speech during an election, holding that Florida's ban on direct financial solicitation from a judicial candidate does not violate the First Amendment. This Comment argues that, while preserving the appearance and reality of judicial impartiality is necessary to ensure a respected and just judiciary, the Court should not have allowed Florida's ban on direct campaign solicitation by judicial candidates to stand. This Comment argues that the ban violates the First Amendment and that the Court's holding runs against long-standing principles of freedom of speech in elections. Further, this Comment argues that states should appoint their judiciaries. However, such reform is politically unlikely, and therefore states should at least consider reforming their judicial recusal procedures to improve the appearance and reality of judicial impartiality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), in 918 wells sampled throughout California between 2004 and 2012 by the Groundwater Ambient Monitoring and Assessment-Priority Basin Project (GAMA-PBP) ranged from less than the study reporting limit of 1 microgram per liter (μg/L) to 32 μg/L. Statewide, Cr(VI) was reported in 31 percent of wells and equaled or exceeded the recently established (2014) California Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Cr(VI) of 10 μg/L in 4 percent of wells. Cr(VI) data collected for regulatory purposes overestimated Cr(VI) occurrence compared to spatially-distributed GAMA-PBP data. Ninety percent of chromium was present as Cr(VI), which was detected more frequently and at higher concentrations in alkaline (pH ≥ 8), oxic water; and more frequently in agricultural and urban land uses compared to native land uses. Chemical, isotopic (tritium and carbon-14), and noble-gas data show high Cr(VI) in water from wells in alluvial aquifers in the southern California deserts result from long groundwater-residence times and geochemical reactions such as silicate weathering that increase pH, while oxic conditions persist. High Cr(VI) in water from wells in alluvial aquifers along the west-side of the Central Valley results from high-chromium in source rock eroded to form those aquifers, and areal recharge processes (including irrigation return) that can mobilize chromium from the unsaturated zone. Cr(VI) co-occurred with oxyanions having similar chemistry, including vanadium, selenium, and uranium. Cr(VI) was positively correlated with nitrate, consistent with increased concentrations in areas of agricultural land use and mobilization of chromium from the unsaturated zone by irrigation return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A significant limitation in the operational utility of handheld and backpack radioisotope identifiers (RIIDs) is the inability of their onboard algorithms to accurately and reliably identify the isotopic sources of the measured gamma-ray energy spectrum. A possible solution is to move the spectral analysis computations to an external device, the cloud, where significantly greater capabilities are available. The implementation and demonstration of a prototype cloud-based RIID analysis system have shown this type of system to be feasible with currently available communication and computational technology. A system study has shown that the potential user community could derive significant benefits from an appropriately implemented cloud-based analysis system and has identified the design and operational characteristics required by the users and stakeholders for such a system. A general description of the hardware and software necessary to implement reliable cloud-based analysis, the value of the cloud expressed by the user community, and the aspects of the cloud implemented in the demonstrations are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decreases of up to 50% in the moistureuptake of polycyanuratenetworks based on 2,2-bis(4-cyanatophenyl)propane (BADCy) and 1,1-bis(4-cyanatophenyl)ethane(LECy) were observed when analogous networks containing a single methylgroup ortho- to each aryl–cyanurate linkagewere prepared by reduction and acid-catalyzed coupling of salicylicacid followed by treatment with cyanogen bromide and subsequent cyclotrimerization.The differences in water uptake were observed despite similar decreasesin packing fraction as conversion proceeded in all networks studied.Conversely, the presence or absence of methyl groups at arylene bridges,remote from the cyanurate oxygen, had no influence on water uptake.Vitrification during cure had little effect on either free volumedevelopment or moisture uptake. These results confirm that sterichindrance from ortho-methyl groups inhibits absorptionof water presumably by decreasing the thermodynamic favorability ofsterically permitted interaction with the cyanurate oxygen. A furtherexamination of the effect of two different catalysts, 2 parts perhundred of a 30:1 by weight mixture of nonylphenol and copper(II)acetylacetonate and 500 ppm of dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL), comparedto analogous uncatalyzed networks, showed that hydrolytic stabilitywas dramatically affected by catalyst choice, while thermochemicalstability was also impacted. These results provide important insightsinto the mechanisms that determine structure–property relationshipsin polycyanurate networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solubility controls on vanadium (V) in groundwater were studied due to concerns over possible harmful health effects of ingesting V in drinking water. Vanadium concentrations in the northeastern San Joaquin Valley ranged from <3 μg/L to 70 μg/L with a median of 21 μg/L. Concentrations of V were highest in samples collected from oxic groundwater (49% > 25 μg/L) and lowest in samples collected from anoxic groundwater (70% < 0.8 μg/L). In oxic groundwater, speciation modeling (SM) using PHREEQC predicted that V exists primarily as the oxyanion H 2 VO 4 − . Adsorption/desorption reactions with mineral surfaces and associated oxide coatings were indicated as the primary solubility control of V 5+ oxyanions in groundwater. Environmental data showed that V concentrations in oxic groundwater generally increased with increasing groundwater pH. However, data from adsorption isotherm experiments indicated that small variations in pH (7.4–8.2) were not likely as an important a factor as the inherent adsorption capacity of oxide assemblages coating the surface of mineral grains. In suboxic groundwater, accurate SM modeling was difficult since Eh measurements of source water were not measured in this study. Vanadium concentrations in suboxic groundwater decreased with increasing pH indicating that V may exist as an oxycationic species [e.g. V(OH) 3 + ]. Vanadium may complex with dissolved inorganic and organic ligands under suboxic conditions, which could alter the adsorption behavior of V in groundwater. Speciation modeling did not predict the existence of V-inorganic ligand complexes and organic ligands were not collected as part of this study. More work is needed to determine processes governing V solubility under suboxic groundwater conditions. Under anoxic groundwater conditions, SM predicts that aqueous V exists as the uncharged V(OH) 3 molecule. However, exceedingly low V concentrations show that V is sparingly soluble in anoxic conditions. Results indicated that V may be precipitating as V 3+ - or mixed V 3+ /Fe 3+ -oxides in anoxic groundwater, which is consistent with results of a previous study. The fact that V appears insoluble in anoxic (Fe reducing) redox conditions indicates that the behavior of V is different than arsenic (As) in aquifer systems where the reductive dissolution of Fe-oxides with As adsorbed to the surface is a well-documented mechanism for increasing As concentrations in groundwater. This hypothesis is supported by the relation of V to As concentrations in oxic versus anoxic redox conditions. Sequential extraction procedures (SEP) applied to aquifer material showed that the greatest amount of V was recovered by the nitric acid (HNO 3 ) extract (37–71%), followed by the oxalate-ascorbic acid extract (19–60%) and the oxalate extract (3–14%). These results indicate that V was not associated with the solid phase as an easily exchangeable fraction. Although the total amount of V recovered was greatest for the HNO 3 extract that targets V adsorbed to sorption sites of crystalline Al, Fe and Mn oxides, the greatest V saturation of sorption sites appeared to occur on the amorphous and poorly crystalline oxide solid phases targeted by the oxalate and oxalate-ascorbic acid extracts respectively. Adsorption isotherm experiments showed no correlation between V sorption and any of the fractions identified by the SEP. This lack of correlation indicates the application of an SEP alone is not adequate to estimate the sorption characteristics of V in an aquifer system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the experiments was to analyse the spatial cueing effects of the movements of soccer players executing normal and deceptive (step-over) turns with the ball. Stimuli comprised normal resolution or point-light video clips of soccer players dribbling a football towards the observer then turning right or left with the ball. Clips were curtailed before or on the turn (−160, −80, 0 or +80 ms) to examine the time course of direction prediction and spatial cueing effects. Participants were divided into higher-skilled (HS) and lower-skilled (LS) groups according to soccer experience. In experiment 1, accuracy on full video clips was higher than on point-light but results followed the same overall pattern. Both HS and LS groups correctly identified direction on normal moves at all occlusion levels. For deceptive moves, LS participants were significantly worse than chance and HS participants were somewhat more accurate but nevertheless substantially impaired. In experiment 2, point-light clips were used to cue a lateral target. HS and LS groups showed faster reaction times to targets that were congruent with the direction of normal turns, and to targets incongruent with the direction of deceptive turns. The reversed cueing by deceptive moves coincided with earlier kinematic events than cueing by normal moves. It is concluded that the body kinematics of soccer players generate spatial cueing effects when viewed from an opponent's perspective. This could create a reaction time advantage when anticipating the direction of a normal move. A deceptive move is designed to turn this cueing advantage into a disadvantage. Acting on the basis of advance information, the presence of deceptive moves primes responses in the wrong direction, which may be only partly mitigated by delaying a response until veridical cues emerge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The methodology employed for the thermal design and margins assessment of the Mars Science Laboratory aeroshell thermal protection system is reviewed. A new thermal margins policy was developed in the course of this work that provides additional rigor over previous methods. Because of a late change of thermal protection materials from the heritage super lightweight ablator 561V to phenolic impregnated carbon ablator, the design of the heat shield followed a nontraditional path in which the flight thickness was selected based on a mass (rather than thermal) limit. The material switch was followed by detailed thermal analyses that demonstrated that the baselined thickness was sufficient to provide adequate thermal protection to the vehicle without violating design requirements during a 3- sigma worst-case entry condition. The backshell material thickness was also finalized before the thermal sizing was completed, and the resulting analysis showed that there was more than sufficient material on the backshell. The parachute cone cover and backshell interface plate were the only major thermal protection system elements that followed a standard design process. Thermal sizing was performed for acreage and special features on the cone cover and interface plate, and the hardware was manufactured according to those analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Here we report on the synthesis of a synthetic, stable biotin-c10-AppCH2ppA conjugate involving an unusual Cannizzaro reaction step. This conjugate is used to bind prospective Ap4A binding proteins from Escherichia coli bacterial cell lyzates. Following binding, identities of these proteins are then determined smoothly by a process of magnetic bio-panning and electrospray mass spectrometry. Protein hits appear to be a definitive set of stress protein related targets. While this hit list may not be exclusive, and may vary with the nature of sampling conditions and organism status, nevertheless hits do appear to correspond with bona fide Ap4A-binding proteins. Therefore these hits represent a sound basis on which to construct new hypotheses concerning the cellular importance of Ap4A to bacterial cells and the potential biological significance of Ap4A-protein binding interactions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Recombinant Escherichia coli lysyl-tRNA synthase (LysU) has been previously utilised in the production of stabile, synthetic diadenosine polyphosphate (Ap n A) analogues. Here we report on the extended use of a new recombinant histidine residue-tagged LysU as a tool for highly controlled phosphate phosphate bond formation between nucleotides, avoiding the need for complex protecting group chemistries. Resulting high yielding tandem LysU-based biosynthetic–synthetic/synthetic–biosynthetic strategies emerge for the preparation of varieties of Ap n A analogues directly from inexpensive natural nucleotides and nucleosides. Analogues so formed make a useful small library with which to probe Ap n A activities in vitro and in vivo leading to the discovery of new, potentially potent biopharmaceuticals active against chronic pain and other chronic, high-burden disease states. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article discusses writers William Faulkner and philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Topics discussed include short story "A Bear Hunt" by Faulkner, game theory and Rousseau's theory of stag hunt. Further, other topics which includes majoritarian hunters, social cohesion and oppression is also mentioned.

A growing body of research provides evidence of the link between nurse-to-patient ratios (NTPRs) and skill mix with adverse patient outcomes. This paper reports an investigation into nurse staffing patterns, skill mix and patient movement in critical care units in NSW, Australia. A 'snapshot' of staffing patterns and patient movement over 1 week in October 2012 was obtained by use of a cross-sectional design using retrospective survey and administrative data. A wide variation was found in NTPRs, skill mix and the number of nursing staff vacancies in coronary care and high dependency units. These variations suggest that the quality of patient care may vary between facilities in New South Wales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A growing body of research provides evidence of the link between nurse-to-patient ratios (NTPRs) and skill mix with adverse patient outcomes. This paper reports an investigation into nurse staffing patterns, skill mix and patient movement in critical care units in NSW, Australia. A 'snapshot' of staffing patterns and patient movement over 1 week in October 2012 was obtained by use of a cross-sectional design using retrospective survey and administrative data. A wide variation was found in NTPRs, skill mix and the number of nursing staff vacancies in coronary care and high dependency units. These variations suggest that the quality of patient care may vary between facilities in New South Wales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While biological motion refers to both face and body movements, little is known about the visual perception of facial motion. We therefore examined alpha wave suppression as a reduction in power is thought to reflect visual activity, in addition to attentional reorienting and memory processes. Nineteen neurologically healthy adults were tested on their ability to discriminate between successive facial motion captures. These animations exhibited both rigid and non-rigid facial motion, as well as speech expressions. The structural and surface appearance of these facial animations did not differ, thus participants decisions were based solely on differences in facial movements. Upright, orientation-inverted and luminance-inverted facial stimuli were compared. At occipital and parieto-occipital regions, upright facial motion evoked a transient increase in alpha which was then followed by a significant reduction. This finding is discussed in terms of neural efficiency, gating mechanisms and neural synchronization. Moreover, there was no difference in the amount of alpha suppression evoked by each facial stimulus at occipital regions, suggesting early visual processing remains unaffected by manipulation paradigms. However, upright facial motion evoked greater suppression at parieto-occipital sites, and did so in the shortest latency. Increased activity within this region may reflect higher attentional reorienting to natural facial motion but also involvement of areas associated with the visual control of body effectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ERP experiments were conducted to analyze the underlying neural events when chess players make simple judgments of a board position. Fourteen expert players and 14 age-matched novices viewed, for each of four tasks, 128 unique positions on a mini (4 × 4) chess board each presented for 0.5 s. The tasks were to respond: (a) if white king was in check, (b) if black knight was present, (c) if white king was not in check, and (d) if no black knight was present. Experts showed an enhanced N2 with check targets and a larger P3 with knight targets, relative to novices. Expert-novice differences in posterior N2 began as early as 240 ms on check-related searches. Results were consistent with the view that prolonged N2 components reflect matching of current perceptual input to memory, and thus are sensitive to experts' superior pattern recognition and memory retrieval of chunks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cavitation cloud forms when a high-pressure water jet is submerged in a tank of quiescent water. The water jet is formed as high-pressure nitrogen forces a fixed-volume column of water through a nozzle. The diameter and exit velocity of the water jet affect the behavior and geometry of the resulting cavitation. The relationships between the Reynolds number of the flow and the measured cloud geometry, propagation distance, pulsation frequency, and front velocity are presented. The distance a cloud propagated increased by 30 % when the diameter of the jet was doubled from 1.0 to 2.0 mm. Additionally, the longitudinal cross-sectional area and propagation distance increase with increasing Reynolds number, while the frequency at which the jet pulsed from the nozzle was found to decrease with an increase in Reynolds number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In September 2009, the University of Iowa Libraries embarked on an experiment with patron-driven acquisition (PDA) of e-books with ebrary and YBR. An e-book-only PDA plan was initiated, entirely unmediated and with instantaneous access to the content. MARC records were loaded for each title, determined by our YBP approval profile and other limitations, for a total of 12,000 PDA records. Usage, cost, subject, and publisher data were analyzed for 850 purchased PDA e-books and thousands of other ebrary subscription titles. Results indicate that PDA can be a useful and effective tool for meeting user needs and building the local collection, but the role of PDA in the library's collection management program presents challenges as well as opportunities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses MS Lansdowne 436, an early medieval English manuscript held by the British Library, and argues that it consists of two distinct works which were later bound into one volume. The content of the manuscript, which contains a collection of lives of English saints and a history of English kings, kingdoms, and bishops beginning with the Anglo-Saxon period and ending in the seventh century, is examined. The author also argues that the two works were combined in the 15th century at Romsey Abbey in southern England.