bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial Fuel Cells for Direct Electrical Energy Recovery from Urban Wastewaters
Authors: Capodaglio A. G. , Molognoni D. , Dallago E. , Liberale A. , Cella R. , Longoni P. , Pantaleoni L.
Published: December 2013

Application of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) to wastewater treatment for direct recovery of electric energy appears to provide a potentially attractive alternative to traditional treatment processes, in an optic of costs reduction, and tapping of sustainable energy sources that characterizes current trends in technology. This work focuses on a laboratory‐scale, air‐cathode, and single‐chamber MFC, with internal volume of 6.9 L, operating in batch mode. The MFC was fed with different types of substrates. This study evaluates the MFC behaviour, in terms of organic matter removal efficiency, which reached 86% (on average) with a hydraulic retention time of 150 hours. The MFC produced an average power density of 13.2 mW/m3, with a Coulombic efficiency ranging from 0.8 to 1.9%. The amount of data collected allowed an accurate analysis of the repeatability of MFC electrochemical behaviour, with regards to both COD removal kinetics and electric energy production.
Evidences Suggesting Involvement of Viruses in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gupta Kanupriya , Metgud Rashmi
Published: December 2013

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers and it constitutes a major health problem particularly in developing countries. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represents the most frequent of all oral neoplasms. Several risk factors have been well characterized to be associated with OSCC with substantial evidences. The etiology of OSCC is complex and involves many factors. The most clearly defined potential factors are smoking and alcohol, which substantially increase the risk of OSCC. However, despite this clear association, a substantial proportion of patients develop OSCC without exposure to them, emphasizing the role of other risk factors such as genetic susceptibility and oncogenic viruses. Some viruses are strongly associated with OSCC while the association of others is less frequent and may depend on cofactors for their carcinogenic effects. Therefore, the exact role of viruses must be evaluated with care in order to improve the diagnosis and treatment of OSCC. Although a viral association within a subset of OSCC has been shown, the molecular and histopathological characteristics of these tumors have yet to be clearly defined.
Processing and Characterization of Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia Foams for High-Temperature Applications
Authors: Herrera Ana María , Martins de Oliveira Amir Antônio , Novaes de Oliveira Antonio Pedro , Hotza Dachamir
Published: December 2013

In this work ceramic foams of 3 and 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (3YSZ and 8YSZ) were manufactured by the replication method using polystyrene-polyurethane foams with pore sizes in the 7–10 ppi range. A second coating was carried out on presintered foams in order to thicken struts and hinder microstructural defects. The produced ceramic foams were structurally and thermomechanically characterized. Samples recoated with 3YSZ presented the highest relative densities (0.2±0.1) which contributed to a better mechanical and thermal behavior.
Comparison of H2and NH3Treatments for Copper Interconnects
Authors: Chang Yu-Min , Leu Jihperng , Lin Bing-Hong , Wang Ying-Lung , Cheng Yi-Lung
Published: December 2013

The surface state, electrical, and reliability characteristics of copper (Cu) interconnects after ammonia (NH3) or hydrogen (H2) plasma treatment were investigated in this study. The experimental results show that H2plasma treatment has excellent Cu oxide removal efficiency, less impact on the formation of Cu hillocks, and less damage on low-dielectric constant (low-k) dielectrics in comparison to NH3plasma treatment. However, H2plasma treatment results in a higher leakage current between the Cu lines and shorter electromigration (EM) failure time due to a weaker adhesion strength at the Cu film interface. On the other hand, NH3plasma treatment without the sufficient treatment time would lead to an increased probability of delamination at the Cu/barrier layer interface since the Cu oxide layer can not be completely removed. As a result, extending NH3plasma treatment time can efficiently reduce the adhesion failure and enlarge EM resistance as well.
Electrodialysis of Phosphates in Industrial-Grade Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Machorro J. J. , Olvera J. C. , Larios A. , Hernández-Hernández H. M. , Alcantara-Garduño M. E. , Orozco G.
Published: December 2013

The objective of this research was to study the purification of industrial-grade phosphoric acid (P2O5) by conventional electrodialysis. The experiments were conducted using a three-compartment cell with anion and cation membranes, and industrial acid solution was introduced into the central compartment. The elemental analysis of the diluted solution indicated that the composition of magnesium, phosphates, and sodium was reduced in the central compartment. The ratios of the concentration of the ions and the phosphates were essentially unchanged by the process. Consequently, electrodialysis could not purify the acid in the central compartment, and the migration of phosphate ions to the anolyte produced a highly concentrated phosphoric acid solution containing sulfates and chlorides as impurities. However, the migration of the phosphate ions across the membrane consumed a large amount of energy. Detailed speciation diagrams were constructed in this study. These diagrams showed that metal-phosphate complexes were predominant in the industrial phosphoric acid solution. This result explains why the ratios of the concentrations of the ion metals and the phosphates did not change in the purification process. The energy consumed in the electrodialysis indicated that the metal-phosphate complexes were less mobile than the free-phosphate ions. The speciation diagrams explained the experimental results satisfactorily.
Activation of the NOTCH Pathway in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Sun Wenyue , Gaykalova Daria A. , Ochs Michael F. , Mambo Elizabeth , Arnaoutakis Demetri , Liu Yan , Loyo Myriam , Agrawal Nishant , Howard Jason , Li Ryan , Ahn Sun , Fertig Elana , Sidransky David , Houghton Jeffery , Buddavarapu Kalyan , Sanford Tiffany , Choudhary Ashish , Darden Will , Adai Alex , Latham Gary , Bishop Justin , Sharma Rajni , Westra William H. , Hennessey Patrick , Chung Christine H. , Califano Joseph A.
Published: December 2013

NOTCH1 mutations have been reported to occur in 10% to 15% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). To determine the significance of these mutations, we embarked upon a comprehensive study of NOTCH signaling in a cohort of 44 HNSCC tumors and 25 normal mucosal samples through a set of expression, copy number, methylation, and mutation analyses. Copy number increases were identified in NOTCH pathway genes, including the NOTCH ligand JAG1. Gene set analysis defined a differential expression of the NOTCH signaling pathway in HNSCC relative to normal tissues. Analysis of individual pathway-related genes revealed overexpression of ligands JAG1 and JAG2 and receptor NOTCH3. In 32% of the HNSCC examined, activation of the downstream NOTCH effectors HES1/HEY1 was documented. Notably, exomic sequencing identified 5 novel inactivating NOTCH1 mutations in 4 of the 37 tumors analyzed, with none of these tumors exhibiting HES1/HEY1 overexpression. Our results revealed a bimodal pattern of NOTCH pathway alterations in HNSCC, with a smaller subset exhibiting inactivating NOTCH1 receptor mutations but a larger subset exhibiting other NOTCH1 pathway alterations, including increases in expression or gene copy number of the receptor or ligands as well as downstream pathway activation. Our results imply that therapies that target the NOTCH pathway may be more widely suitable for HNSCC treatment than appreciated currently. Cancer Res; 74(4); 1091–104. ©2013 AACR.
Molecular Pathways: Response and Resistance to BRAF and MEK Inhibitors in BRAFV600E Tumors
Authors: Thakur Meghna Das , Stuart Darrin D.
Published: December 2013

The RAS–RAF–MEK (MAP–ERK kinase)–ERK (extracellular signal–regulated kinase) pathway plays a central role in driving proliferation, survival, and metastasis signals in tumor cells, and the prevalence of oncogenic mutations in RAS and BRAF and upstream nodes makes this pathway the focus of significant oncology drug development efforts. This focus has been justified by the recent success of BRAF and MEK inhibitors in prolonging the lives of patients with BRAFV600E/K-mutant melanoma. Although it is disappointing that cures are relatively rare, this should not detract from the value of these agents to patients with cancer and the opportunity they provide in allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of drug response and resistance. These insights have already provided the basis for the evaluation of alternative dosing regimens and combination therapies in patients with melanoma. Clin Cancer Res; 20(5); 1074–80. ©2013 AACR.
Rituximab in Previously Treated Primary Immune Thrombocytopenia Patients: Evaluation of Short- and Long-Term Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Santoro Cristina , Biondo Francesca , Baldacci Erminia , De Propris Maria Stefania , Guarini Anna , Paoloni Francesca , Foà Roberto , Mazzucconi Maria Gabriella
Published: December 2013

The anti-CD20 chimeric monoclonal antibody rituximab has been effectively used in the treatment of patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (pITP). We retrospectively evaluated 19 patients affected by pITP resistant to 2 or more lines of therapy who were treated with rituximab. Nine of the 19 patients showed an initial response (47.4%). The sustained response rate was 31.6% (6/19). The median follow-up of the patients was 53.2 months (range 9.2-92.9). Disease-free survival at 48 months was 62.2%. Following rituximab treatment, a proportion of patients (42%) recovered a normal B lymphocyte number. During the follow-up, no opportunistic or severe infectious complications were observed. These data confirm, over a long period of observation, the efficacy and safety of rituximab treatment in the management of patients with resistant pITP.
Validation Method of a Middle Ear Mechanical Model to Develop a Surgical Simulator
Authors: Kazmitcheff Guillaume , Miroir Mathieu , Nguyen Yann , Ferrary Evelyne , Sterkers Olivier , Cotin Stéphane , Duriez Christian , Grayeli Alexis Bozorg
Published: December 2013

Ossicular surgery requires a high dexterity for the manipulation of the fragile and small middle ear components. Currently, the only efficient technique for training residents in otological surgery is through the use of temporal bone specimens, where any existing surgical simulator does not provide useful feedback. The objective of this study was to develop a finite-element model of the human ossicular chain dedicated to surgical simulation and to propose a method to evaluate its behavior. A model was developed based on human middle ear micromagnetic resonance imaging. The mechanical parameters were determined according to published data. To assess its performance, the middle ear transfer function was analyzed. The robustness of our model and the influence of different middle ear components were also evaluated at low frequency by static force pressure simulations. The mechanical behavior of our model in nominal and pathological conditions was in good agreement with published human temporal bone measurements. We showed that the cochlea influences the transfer function only at high frequency and could be omitted from a surgical simulator. In addition, surgeons were able to manipulate the validated middle ear model with a real-time haptic feedback. The computational efficiency of our approach allowed real-time interactions, making it suitable for use in a training simulator.
Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant for Treatment of Patients with Persistent Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Dutra Medeiros Marco , Postorino Maurizio , Navarro Rafael , Garcia-Arumí José , Mateo Carlos , Corcóstegui Borja
Published: December 2013

Purpose: To report the 6-month anatomical and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) response after primary intravitreal dexamethasone implantation (Ozurdex®) in patients with refractory diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods: Retrospective review of the medical records of 58 patients with decreased visual acuity, due to refractory DME, who underwent a single injection of Ozurdex between November 2010 and January 2012, at the Instituto de Microcirurgia Ocular, Barcelona, Spain. Results: At baseline, the mean foveal thickness (FT) was 543.24 ± 156.51 μm. Mean (±SD) values of FT did decrease to 346.82 ± 123.74 μm at month 1 and 341.12 ± 129.64 μm at month 3. Data on the 6-month follow-up showed a mild increase to 420.16 ± 152.15 μm. All of the FT reduction outcomes were statistically significant, with respect to baseline data (p = 0.0001). The baseline BCVA data was 0.66 ± 0.36 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR). The mean BCVA improved to 0.52 ± 0.32 logMAR (p = 0.0001) and 0.44 ± 0.27 logMAR (p = 0.0001) after 1 and 3 months, respectively. At the last visit (6-month follow-up), the mean BCVA increased to 0.51 ± 0.31 logMAR (p = 0.0001). Conclusions: In this study, intravitreal treatment with a dexamethasone implant safely reduced DME and improved visual acuity in a difficult-to-treat patient population with long-standing refractory DME.
Should Omentectomy Be a Part of Surgical Staging in Patients with Endometrioid Adenocarcinoma of the Uterine Corpus?
Authors: Ulker Volkan , Tunca Aysun , Numanoglu Ceyhun , Akbayir Ozgur , Akyol Alpaslan , Erim Adnan , Ongut Cuneyt
Published: December 2013

Background: The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of omental metastasis in endometrioid adenocarcinoma and to correlate risk variables with this spread. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with endometrioid adenocarcinoma who underwent omentectomy in addition to staging laparotomy was performed. Results: Omental metastases were noted in 11 of the 322 patients with endometrioid adenocarcinoma (3.4%). Multivariate analyses showed that there was a significant correlation between omental metastasis and positive peritoneal cytology, adnexal involvement, and grade 3 tumor (p = 0.028, p = 0.001, and p = 0.01, respectively). There was no statistical relationship between omental metastasis and lymphovascular space involvement, deep myometrial invasion, and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.087, p = 0.97, and p = 0.92, respectively). Conclusion: Grade 3 endometrioid adenocarcinomas, especially those that are complicated by deep myometrial invasion, have a pattern of intra-abdominal spread similar to more aggressive endometrial cancers, with frequent involvement of the omentum. Overall, we conclude that 37.5% (3/8) of patients who had a grade 3 tumor and omental metastasis stage IV disease would have been missed if a staging operation similar to that employed for ovarian cancer had not been performed.
Alagille Syndrome Associated with Xerophthalmia
Authors: Moisseiev Elad , Cohen Shlomi , Dotan Gadi
Published: December 2013

Purpose: To report the occurrence of xerophthalmia and keratomalacia in a patient with Alagille syndrome. Methods: The patient's record and relevant literature were reviewed. Results: A 3-year-old boy with Alagille syndrome was examined at our institution due to severe bilateral ocular irritation. A corneal ulcer and keratomalacia were found in the right eye and severe dryness with corneal opacification was found in the left eye. He was treated with topical fortified antibiotics in the right eye, followed by amniotic membrane transplantation. Due to his systemic condition, characterized by severe cholestasis and intestinal malabsorption, a suspicion of vitamin A deficiency was raised and was later confirmed in serum analysis. Conclusion: This is the first report of xerophthalmia in a patient with Alagille syndrome. Vitamin A deficiency leading to xerophthalmia is common in developing countries; however, its occurrence in the West is rare, leading to a reduced awareness of this disorder amongst clinicians. Unusual eating habits, intestinal malabsorption and liver disease are possible causes for such a deficiency. The purpose of this case report is to raise awareness to the possibility of vitamin A deficiency in children with keratopathy, especially when associated with these disorders.
Thrombin generation using the calibrated automated thrombinoscope to assess reversibility of dabigatran and rivaroxaban
Authors: Thom James , Wood Alicia , Phillips Michael , Muhammad Shoaib , Baker Ross , Herrmann Richard
Published: December 2013

The new direct-acting anticoagulants such as dabigatran and rivaroxaban are usually not monitored but may be associated with haemorrhage, particularly where renal impairment occurs. They have no effective “antidotes”. We studied 17 patients receiving dabigatran 150 mg twice daily for non-valvular atrial fibrillation and 15 patients receiving rivaroxaban 10 mg daily for the prevention of deep venous thrombosis after hip or knee replacement surgery. We assessed the effect of these drugs on commonly used laboratory tests and Calibrated Automated Thrombogram (CAT) using plasma samples. We also assessed effects in fresh whole blood citrated patient samples using thromboelastography on the TEG and the ROTEM. The efficacy of nonspecific haemostatic agents prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC), Factor VIII Inhibitor By-passing Activity (FEIBA) and recombinant activated factor VII (rVIIa) were tested by reversal of abnormal thrombin generation using the CAT. Concentrations added ex vivo were chosen to reflect doses normally given in vivo. Dabigatran significantly increased the dynamic parameters of the TEG and ROTEM and the lag time of the CAT. It significantly reduced the endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) and reduced the peak height of the CAT. Rivaroxaban did not affect the TEG and ROTEM parameters but did increase the lag time and reduce ETP and peak height of the CAT. For both drugs, these parameters were significantly and meaningfully corrected by PCC and FEIBA and to a lesser but still significant extent by rFVIIa. These results may be useful in devising a reversal strategy in patients but clinical experience will be needed to verify them.
Cardiovascular Disease and Cognitive Decline in Postmenopausal Women: Results From the Women's Health Initiative Memory Study
Authors: Haring Bernhard , Leng Xiaoyan , Robinson Jennifer , Johnson Karen C. , Jackson Rebecca D. , Beyth Rebecca , Wactawski‐Wende Jean , von Ballmoos Moritz Wyler , Goveas Joseph S. , Kuller Lewis H. , Wassertheil‐Smoller Sylvia
Published: December 2013

Background

Data on cardiovascular diseases (
CVD
) and cognitive decline are conflicting. Our objective was to investigate if
CVD
is associated with an increased risk for cognitive decline and to examine whether hypertension, diabetes, or adiposity modify the effect of
CVD
on cognitive functioning.

Methods and Results

Prospective follow‐up of 6455 cognitively intact, postmenopausal women aged 65 to 79 years old enrolled in the
W
omen's
H
ealth
I
nitiative
M
emory
S
tudy (
WHIMS
).
CVD
was determined by self‐report. For cognitive decline, we assessed the incidence of mild cognitive impairment (
MCI
) or probable dementia (
PD
) via modified mini‐mental state examination (3 MS) score, neurocognitive, and neuropsychiatric examinations. The median follow‐up was 8.4 years. Women with
CVD
tended to be at increased risk for cognitive decline compared with those free of
CVD
(hazard ratio [
HR
], 1.29; 95%
CI
: 1.00, 1.67). Women with myocardial infarction or other vascular disease were at highest risk (
HR
, 2.10; 95%
CI
: 1.40, 3.15 or
HR
, 1.97; 95%
CI
: 1.34, 2.87). Angina pectoris was moderately associated with cognitive decline (
HR
1.45; 95%
CI
: 1.05, 2.01) whereas no significant relationships were found for atrial fibrillation or heart failure. Hypertension and diabetes increased the risk for cognitive decline in women without
CVD
. Diabetes tended to elevate the risk for
MCI
/
PD
in women with
CVD
. No significant trend was seen for adiposity.

Conclusions

CVD
is associated with cognitive decline in elderly postmenopausal women. Hypertension and diabetes, but not adiposity, are associated with a higher risk for cognitive decline. More research is warranted on the potential of
CVD
prevention for preserving cognitive functioning.
Effectiveness of Shared Leadership in Wikipedia
Authors: Zhu Haiyi , Kraut Robert E. , Kittur Aniket
Published: December 2013

Objective:

The objective of the paper is to understand leadership in an online community, specifically, Wikipedia.

Background:

Wikipedia successfully aggregates millions of volunteers’ efforts to create the largest encyclopedia in human history. Without formal employment contracts and monetary incentives, one significant question for Wikipedia is how it organizes individual members with differing goals, experience, and commitment to achieve a collective outcome. Rather than focusing on the role of the small set of people occupying a core leadership position, we propose a shared leadership model to explain the leadership in Wikipedia. Members mutually influence one another by exercising leadership behaviors, including rewarding, regulating, directing, and socializing one another.

Method:

We conducted a two-phase study to investigate how distinct types of leadership behaviors (transactional, aversive, directive, and person-focused), the legitimacy of the people who deliver the leadership, and the experience of the people who receive the leadership influence the effectiveness of shared leadership in Wikipedia.

Results:

Our results highlight the importance of shared leadership in Wikipedia and identify trade-offs in the effectiveness of different types of leadership behaviors. Aversive and directive leadership increased contribution to the focal task, whereas transactional and person-focused leadership increased general motivation. We also found important differences in how newcomers and experienced members responded to leadership behaviors from peers.

Application:

These findings extend shared leadership theories, contribute new insight into the important underlying mechanisms in Wikipedia, and have implications for practitioners who wish to design more effective and successful online communities.
Reducing stigma toward people with bipolar disorder: Impact of a filmed theatrical intervention based on a personal narrative
Authors: Hawke Lisa D , Michalak Erin E , Maxwell Victoria , Parikh Sagar V
Published: December 2013

Background:

Stigma toward people with bipolar disorder (BD) is pervasive and can have many negative repercussions. Common approaches to stigma reduction include education and intergroup contact. From this perspective, the Collaborative RESearch Team to study psychosocial issues in Bipolar Disorder (CREST.BD) and Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) partnered to develop an intervention to combat stigma. The result is a personal narrative intervention that combines contact, education and drama to educate audiences and dispel the myths that drive stigma.

Aim:

This study reports on the impact of the CREST.BD-CANMAT stigma-reduction intervention in filmed format.

Methods:

A sample of 137 participants was recruited to view the film, including health-care service providers, university students in a health-care-related course, people with BD and their friends and family members and the general public. Participants were evaluated for stigmatizing attitudes and the desire for social distance before and after the intervention and 1 month later.

Results:

For health-care service providers, the intervention was associated with statistically significant improvements in several categories of stigmatizing attitudes, with maintenance 1 month later. The impact was more modest for the other subsamples. Students demonstrated progressive, significant improvements in the desire for (less) social distance. Some improvements were observed among members of the BD community and the general public, but these were limited and eroded over time.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that a filmed dramatic intervention based on the lived experience of BD has statistically significant, sustainable stigma-reduction impacts for health-care service providers and more limited impacts for other target groups. This intervention can be considered an effective tool for use in stigma-reduction campaigns specifically targeting members of the health-care sector. Results are discussed in the context of multi-component stigma-reduction campaigns and the potential needs of target groups.
DSPP Contains an IRES Element Responsible for the Translation of Dentin Phosphophoryn
Authors: Zhang Y. , Song Y. , Ravindran S. , Gao Q. , Huang C.C. , Ramachandran A. , Kulkarni A. , George A.
Published: December 2013

The major phosphoprotein in dentin is the aspartic acid and serine-rich protein called dentin phosphophoryn (DPP). DPP appears to be synthesized as a part of a larger compound protein, dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP). DSPP has never been isolated or detected in dentin extracts. It is now evident that DSPP is a chimeric protein composed of 3 parts: dentin sialoprotein (DSP), DPP, and dentin glycoprotein (DGP). Previous reports have suggested that the BMP1 protease is responsible for processing DSPP. However, unequal amounts of these products are present in the dentin matrix. Here, we provide evidence for an internal ribosome entry site in the DSPP gene that directs the synthesis of DPP. This mechanism would account for unequal amounts of intracellular DSP and DPP. The internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) activity varied in different cell types, suggesting the presence of additional regulatory elements during the translational regulation of DPP. Further, we provide evidence that DPP is transported to the extracellular matrix (ECM) through exosomes. Using tissue recombination and lentivirus-mediated gain-of-function approaches, we also demonstrate that DPP is essential for the formation of well-defined tooth structures with mineralized dentin matrix.
Forensic evaluation of medical liability cases in general surgery
Authors: Moreira H , Magalhães T , Dinis-Oliveira RJ , Taveira-Gomes A
Published: December 2013

Although medical liability (disciplinary, civil and criminal) is increasingly becoming an issue, few studies exist, particularly from the perspective of forensic science, which demonstrate the extent to which medical malpractice occurs, or when it does, the reasons for it. Our aims were to evaluate the current situation concerning medical liability in general surgery (GS) in Portugal, the reasons for claims, and the forensic evaluations and conclusions, as well as the association between these issues and the judicial outcomes.

We analysed the Medico-Legal Council (CML) reports of the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Portugal related to GS during 2001–2010. The judicial outcomes of each case were requested from the Public Prosecutor Office (PPO) and the court. Alleged cases of medical liability in GS represented 11.2% of the total cases analysed by the CML. We estimated that in Portugal, 4:100,000 surgeries are subject to litigation. The majority of complaints were due to the patient’s death (75.4%), with laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgeries representing 55.2% of cases. In 76.1% of the cases, the CML believed that there was no violation of leges artis and in 55.2% of cases, no causal nexus was found between the medical practice and the alleged harm. The PPO prosecuted physicians in 6.4% of the cases and resulted in one conviction. Finally, the importance of the CML reports as a relevant technical-scientific tool for judicial decision was evident because these reports significantly ( p < 0.05) influenced the prosecutor’s decision, whether to prosecute or not.
Teach Like Lives Depend on It
Authors: Camangian Patrick Roz
Published: December 2013

This article analyzes teaching that begins with the realities, ideologies, and articulations of dispossessed youth of color to shift perceptions of cultural deficits into potential academic strengths that are also critical. Drawing on culturally relevant, critical pedagogical, and critical literacy theories to understand the educational needs of historically dispossessed cultural groups in the United States and propose a humanizing pedagogy, this article offers critical participatory teacher analysis that suggests this can be done by (a) agitating students politically, (b) arousing their critical curiosity, and (c) inspiring self and social transformation.
Direct measurement of piston friction of internal-combustion engines using the floating-liner principle
Authors: Gore Michael , Theaker Michael , Howell-Smith Sebastian , Rahnejat Homer , King Paul D
Published: December 2013

Piston–cylinder interactions account for a significant portion of frictional losses in an internal-combustion engine. This is mainly as the result of significant changes in the operating conditions (the load, the speed and the temperature) as well as the contact geometry and the encountered topography during a typical engine cycle. These changes alter the regime of lubrication which underlies the mechanisms of friction generation. The multi-variate interactive nature of the problem requires quite complex analyses which do not fully replicate the actual in-situ conditions. Therefore, there is a need for direct measurement of cyclic friction under controlled conditions. The paper describes the use of a novel floating-liner arrangement which is capable of direct measurement of friction, its transitory mechanisms, as well as determination of the regime of lubrication.
Rectal Chlamydia in heterosexual women: more questions than answers
Authors: Ding Alvin , Challenor Rachel
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to observe the proportion of concurrent rectal Chlamydia (RCt) infection in women who have cervical Chlamydia (CCt) and to observe whether there was any correlation with receptive anal intercourse (RAI). Untreated CCt-positive women were invited to take part. Women chose either to have a physician-collected or self-taken rectal swab. Treatment was then commenced. 17 samples were physician-collected and 80 were self-collected. 75/97 (77.3%, 95% Confidence Interval [95%CI] 69.0–85.7%) were RCt positive. 25/97 (25.8%, 95%CI 17.1–34.5%) reported RAI. There was no difference in the positivity rate whether RAI was reported (80%) or not (76%) ( P = 0.71); or whether swabs were physician-collected (65%) or self-taken (80%) ( P = 0.17). Only one of those with RCt reported rectal symptoms. One woman had concurrent gonococcal infection. 34/97 (35%) had a history of past sexually transmitted infections. Verified contact attendance was 0.52 and 72% of verified contacts were Chlamydia positive. Reported RAI may not be helpful in guiding RCt testing. RCt infection in women may be more prevalent than previously thought. We do not know whether RCt infections are clinically significant or whether they may act as a reservoir for re-infection. RCt infections in women require further study.
Alarming epidemics of human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus among injection drug users in the northwestern bordering state of Punjab, India: prevalence and correlates
Authors: Panda Samiran , Roy Tarun , Pahari Sobha , Mehraa Jyotiee , Sharma Neeraj , Singh Gagandeep , Singh Jasbir , Joseph Francis , Singh Sukhvinder , Sharma Narinder M
Published: December 2013

Summary

In this study 1155 injection drug users (IDUs) receiving targeted intervention in five cities of Punjab were surveyed; three cities (Amritsar, Taran-Taran, Batala) were in districts sharing an international border with Pakistan and the other two were Jalandhar and Ludhiana. Information on socio-demography, substance use and sexual practices were collected; blood samples were tested for biologic markers. HIV and HCV antibody (HCVAb) prevalences in injection drug users were 29 and 49%, respectively. Of the HCVAb-seroreactive IDUs, 33% had HIV as well. HIV prevalence in young IDUs (≤19 years), estimated as surrogate for HIV incidence, was high at 12% and HCVAb in this subgroup was 27%. Herpes simplex virus 2 antibody (IgG) was detected in 10% of IDUs; 2% had syphilis. Alcohol use prevalence was high and frequency of use concerning. In multivariate analyses, ‘city of residence closer to international border’ and ‘>1 year duration of injecting drugs were associated with HIV and HCVAb. Furthermore, ‘irregular supply of syringes and needles’ was associated with HCVAb seroreactive status of IDUs (adjusted odds ratio 1.7; 95% CI 1.3–2.3; P < 0.001), and ‘any genital disease symptom within the last year’ (adjusted odds ratio 2; 95% CI 1.4–2.9; P < 0.001) was associated with HIV infection. Alcohol and sexual risk reduction, strengthening of needle–syringe exchange, reducing injecting duration and clinical management of HIV, HCV and HIV/HCV co-infection appear as four core programme needs.
Choriocarcinoma-like tumor in a potbellied pig (Sus scrofa)
Authors: Hirata Akihiro , Miyazaki Aya , Sakai Hiroki , Imada Nanae , Kitani Ryohei , Nikami Hideki , Yanai Tokuma
Published: December 2013

A uterine tumor, with histological and immunohistochemical features consistent with those of human choriocarcinoma, was identified in a 10-year-old unmated female pot-bellied pig ( Sus scrofa). The tumor showed biphasic proliferation of cytotrophoblast-like cells and syncytiotrophoblast-like cells. Immunohistochemically, the syncytiotrophoblast-like cells were positive for human chorionic gonadotropin, and both types of cells were positive for cytokeratin and negative for vimentin, octamer-binding transcription factor 4, and α-fetoprotein. Because syncytiotrophoblasts are absent in the normal porcine placenta, the tumor was diagnosed as a choriocarcinoma-like tumor.
When Service Members With Traumatic Brain Injury Become Students
Authors: Helms Kimberly Turner , Libertz Daniel
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this paper is to explain which evidence-based interventions in study strategies have been successful in helping soldiers and veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) return to the classroom. Military leaders have specifically identified TBI as one of the signature injuries of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq with over a quarter of a million service members diagnosed with a TBI from 2000 to 2012. From the perspective of developmental education practitioners, this narrative examination reviews available research and government documentation to offer an understanding of TBI, effects of TBI on learning, and recommended approaches to provide these students the most beneficial learning experiences. The incorporation of effective learning strategies and appropriate instructional methods are critical in maximizing the learning outcomes of students with this kind of injury. Despite the attention that must be paid to each individual case, it may be beneficial to incorporate methods that have been proven successful, such as the use of graphic organizers and direct instruction.
Surviving Women’s Learning Experiences From the Tsunami in Aceh
Authors: Yan Fang Jane Teng , Yusof Qismullah
Published: December 2013

This study investigated surviving women’s learning experiences from the 2004 tsunami in Aceh. Women were the majority of casualties and the most vulnerable after the tsunami. Almost a decade later, we used a conceptual framework of experiential learning, critical reflection, and transformative learning to understand the surviving women’s ways of learning after the disaster. This paper highlights a qualitative study from a larger mixed methods study. Of the larger study’s 450 survey respondents, we interviewed 103 participants using a semi-structured interview protocol for 1 to 1.5 hr. From those participants, this paper highlights 13 women who articulated significant learning during their experience. The findings indicate the women learnt through reflection, talking, and feelings. Furthermore, their learning and reflection on life’s experiences enabled them to strike a balance and lead a better life. This study highlights that learning experiences in a critical life event can eventually result in a person’s changed behavior, attitudes, knowledge, beliefs, or skills.
The Effect of Behavioral Contracting on Preservice Elementary Teachers’ Performance Achievement on the Soprano Recorder
Authors: Egger John Okley , Springer D. Gregory , Gooding Lori F.
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of behavioral contracting on preservice elementary teachers’ performance achievement on the soprano recorder. Participants were elementary and special education majors ( N = 60) enrolled in an undergraduate elementary music methods course. The study used a withdrawal design (ABA) composed of 2-week baseline–contract–baseline phases. Participants performed an assigned excerpt on the soprano recorder at the conclusion of each phase, and the tempo and number of errors performed were scored as data points for each participant. Results showed that participants performed with significantly higher tempos and significantly fewer errors during the contracting phase. Following the contracting phase, participants’ performed tempo continued to increase even in the absence of the behavioral contract. These results are consistent with previous research suggesting that behavioral contracting does have a positive impact on students’ performance skills.
Beginning Music Teacher Mentor Practices
Authors: Conway Colleen
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this inquiry was to examine the current reflections of 13 experienced teachers on their past perceptions of mentoring as documented by Conway (2003a). Participants read the 2003 study and examined all data collected in 1999-2000, including journals, two questionnaires, individual interviews, focus group interviews, mentor interviews, and principal interviews. They then wrote an e-mail reflection on that reading and participated in an individual interview regarding their current perceptions on mentoring beginning music teachers. I sought to understand whether findings represented in the 2003 study were perceived to be still relevant today. In addition, I sought to uncover additional insights regarding mentoring that these participants could offer. Findings are presented in the following categories: (a) mentoring can be valuable for the mentor; (b) disagreement regarding who should mentor; and (c) new teachers must be proactive in finding answers to questions. Themes consistent with the 2003 findings include (a) a lack of consistency in mentor programs and teacher perceptions of value, (b) curricular concerns, (c) music teachers need music mentors, and (d) time for mentor–mentee interaction. Connections are made to past research, and suggestions for future research and mentoring practice are provided.
Examining Lesson Plan Use Among Instrumental Music Education Majors During Practice Teaching
Authors: Lane Jeremy S. , Talbert Matthew D.
Published: December 2013

Undergraduate instrumental music education majors ( N = 18) taught a series of 5-minute lessons to an ensemble of their peers. Investigators compared participants’ written lesson plans with activities demonstrated during teaching, and calculated frequencies and durations of teacher episodes, student episodes, and overall rates of pacing. Results suggest that although written plans tended to contain vague and nonspecific language, participants relied on their lesson plans during teaching in terms of general content. Analysis of teacher time use indicated that participants were able to significantly reduce teacher talk time and reduce latency time at the beginning of lessons. Findings are similar to previous research in some areas of time use but contrast with results of previous research in relation to participants’ reliance on lesson plans during teaching. The authors use these results to recommend deeper investigation into the nature of transfer of learned lesson-planning skills across various teaching contexts.
A Controlled, Comparative Study of a Fixed-Bearing Versus Mobile-Bearing Ankle Arthroplasty
Authors: Gaudot Fabrice , Colombier Jean-Alain , Bonnin Michel , Judet Thierry
Published: December 2013

Background:

Total ankle arthroplasty is available with fixed-bearing (FB) or mobile-bearing (MB) versions, and there is little consensus on the benefits and drawbacks of each type. This study aimed to compare clinical outcomes of statistically paired series of FB and MB versions of the same ankle prosthesis.

Methods:

The study was a multicenter retrospective comparison between 2 groups: the FB group of 33 consecutive Talaris cases and the MB group of 33 “paired” Salto cases, selected from a database of 313 consecutive cases to statistically match etiology, age, and preoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score. All patients were operated upon with the same operative technique and received identical pre- and postoperative clinical and radiographic assessments. The mean follow-up was 24 months for the FB group and 23 months for the MB group.

Results:

There was no statistical difference between results of the 2 groups in terms of accuracy of positioning, clinical and radiographic mobility, and morbidity. The most recent postoperative AOFAS scores were higher for the FB group than for the MB group ( P = .05). Radiolucent lines were observed in 4 FB patients versus 13 MB patients ( P = .02). Subchondral cysts were noted in 1 FB patient and in 8 MB patients ( P = .01).

Conclusion:

There was no notable difference in clinical performance of the FB and MB implants with the numbers available. This short-term study demonstrated that FB ankle arthroplasty had results equivalent to, if not better than, MB ankle arthroplasty. Longer follow-up is necessary to determine the success of this new generation of ankle arthroplasty.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective case control study.
Robot-assisted home hazard assessment for fall prevention: a feasibility study
Authors: Sadasivam Rajani S , Luger Tana M , Coley Heather L , Taylor Benjamin B , Padir Taskin , Ritchie Christine S , Houston Thomas K
Published: December 2013

Summary

We examined the feasibility of using a remotely manoeuverable robot to make home hazard assessments for fall prevention. We employed use-case simulations to compare robot assessments with in-person assessments. We screened the homes of nine elderly patients (aged 65 years or more) for fall risks using the HEROS screening assessment. We also assessed the participants' perspectives of the remotely-operated robot in a survey. The nine patients had a median Short Blessed Test score of 8 (interquartile range, IQR 2-20) and a median Life-Space Assessment score of 46 (IQR 27-75). Compared to the in-person assessment (mean = 4.2 hazards identified per participant), significantly more home hazards were perceived in the robot video assessment (mean = 7.0). Only two checklist items (adequate bedroom lighting and a clear path from bed to bathroom) had more than 60% agreement between in-person and robot video assessment. Participants were enthusiastic about the robot and did not think it violated their privacy. The study found little agreement between the in-person and robot video hazard assessments. However, it identified several research questions about how to best use remotely-operated robots.
Teledermatology in the diagnosis of melanoma
Authors: Karavan Mahsa , Compton Nicholas , Knezevich Stevan , Raugi Gregory , Kodama Samantha , Taylor Leslie , Reiber Gayle E
Published: December 2013

Summary

We conducted a retrospective chart review of US Veterans in the Pacific Northwest area to compute melanoma incidence and Breslow depth at diagnosis. We compared Veterans with access to teledermatology (TD) and those without (non-TD). We identified pathology-confirmed primary melanomas in Veterans who had had at least one encounter at a VA facility during a 3-year study period. The age-adjusted melanoma incidence for all, TD and non-TD Veterans was 36, 15 and 57 per 100,000, respectively. The mean Breslow depth was significantly greater in the TD group ( P = 0.03). Although a higher proportion of thin (Breslow depth ≤1 mm) TD melanomas were mitotically active, this difference was not significant. We also found that 180 (40%) of the non-TD (face-to-face) diagnosed melanomas were from Veterans living in areas where TD was available. This suggests that the higher melanoma incidence in the non-TD group was mainly due to under-utilization of TD services. The study demonstrated that the TD service was not fully utilized in the VISN20 region, although the reasons for this are not clear. Where TD was utilized it tended to diagnose more advanced melanomas with worse initial prognosis.
Accessibility, usability, and usefulness of a Web-based clinical decision support tool to enhance provider–patient communication around Self-management TO Prevent (STOP) Stroke
Authors: Anderson Jane A , Godwin Kyler M , Saleem Jason J , Russell Scott , Robinson Joshua J , Kimmel Barbara
Published: December 2013

This article reports redesign strategies identified to create a Web-based user-interface for the Self-management TO Prevent (STOP) Stroke Tool. Members of a Stroke Quality Improvement Network (N = 12) viewed a visualization video of a proposed prototype and provided feedback on implementation barriers/facilitators. Stroke-care providers (N = 10) tested the Web-based prototype in think-aloud sessions of simulated clinic visits. Participants’ dialogues were coded into themes. Access to comprehensive information and the automated features/systematized processes were the primary accessibility and usability facilitator themes. The need for training, time to complete the tool, and computer-centric care were identified as possible usability barriers. Patient accountability, reminders for best practice, goal-focused care, and communication/counseling themes indicate that the STOP Stroke Tool supports the paradigm of patient-centered care. The STOP Stroke Tool was found to prompt clinicians on secondary stroke-prevention clinical-practice guidelines, facilitate comprehensive documentation of evidence-based care, and support clinicians in providing patient-centered care through the shared decision-making process that occurred while using the action-planning/goal-setting feature of the tool.
Environmental benefits of using ground tyre rubber in new pneumatic formulations: A life cycle assessment approach
Authors: Daniela Angela La Rosa , Recca Giuseppe , Carbone Domenico , Battiato Salvatore , Latteri Alberta , Cozzo Gulia , Cicala Gianluca
Published: December 2013

Life cycle assessment methodology was applied as a tool to evaluate the real environmental benefit of using recycled waste tyres in mixture with virgin rubber. Styrene–isoprene–styrene rubber was mixed with different amounts of ground tyre rubber and vulcanised. Thermomechanical analysis (i.e. differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis) and dynamic mechanical thermal analysis were carried out in order to evaluate the compatibility of the rubber mixture and the chemical–physical properties of the vulcanised products. Experimental analysis results show that the addition of ground tyre rubber up to 50 phr does not sensibly affect the vulcanisation reaction, the wet skid resistance and the rolling resistance. Life cycle assessment results show that the main environmental impacts of the ground tyre rubber are associated to the use of virgin rubber (47.1%) and carbon black (34.3%) while the tyre grinding process contributes only for 4%. Because ground tyre rubber contains carbon black in its formulation, the substitution of virgin rubber with ground tyre rubber has double environmental benefits: to reduce the need of both amounts of virgin rubber and fresh carbon black in the new formulation.