bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
1-[2-(2-Methoxyphenylamino)ethylamino]-3-(naphthalene-1- yloxy)propan-2-ol May Be a Promising Anticancer Drug
Authors: Nishizaki Tomoyuki , Kanno Takeshi , Tsuchiya Ayako , Kaku Yoshiko , Shimizu Tadashi , Tanaka Akito
Published: December 2014

We have originally synthesized the naftopidil analogue 1-[2-(2-methoxyphenylamino)ethylamino]-3-(naphthalene-1-yloxy)propan-2-ol (HUHS 1015) as a new anticancer drug. HUHS1015 induces cell death in a wide variety of human cancer cell lines originated from malignant pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer, hepatoma, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, prostate cancer, and renal cancer. HUHS1015-induced cell death includes necrosis (necroptosis) and apoptosis, and the underlying mechanism differs depending upon cancer cell types. HUHS1015 effectively suppresses tumor growth in mice inoculated with NCI-H2052, MKN45, or CW2 cells, with a potential similar to or higher than that of currently used anticancer drugs. Here we show how HUHS1015 might offer brilliant hope for cancer therapy.
Evaluation of Radiometric Performance for the Thermal Infrared Sensor Onboard Landsat 8
Authors: Ren Huazhong , Du Chen , Liu Rongyuan , Qin Qiming , Meng Jinjie , Li Zhao-Liang , Yan Guangjian
Published: December 2014

The radiometric performance of remotely-sensed images is important for the applications of such data in monitoring land surface, ocean and atmospheric status. One requirement placed on the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS) onboard Landsat 8 was that the noise-equivalent change in temperature (NEΔT) should be ≤0.4 K at 300 K for its two thermal infrared bands. In order to optimize the use of TIRS data, this study investigated the on-orbit NEΔT of the TIRS two bands from a scene-based method using clear-sky images over uniform ground surfaces, including lake, deep ocean, snow, desert and Gobi, as well as dense vegetation. Results showed that the NEΔTs of the two bands were 0.051 and 0.06 K at 300 K, which exceeded the design specification by an order of magnitude. The effect of NEΔT on the land surface temperature (LST) retrieval using a split window algorithm was discussed, and the estimated NEΔT could contribute only 3.5% to the final LST error in theory, whereas the required NEΔT could contribute up to 26.4%. Low NEΔT could improve the application of TIRS images. However, efforts are needed in the future to remove the effects of unwanted stray light that appears in the current TIRS images.
Moving Target Tracking through Distributed Clustering in Directional Sensor Networks
Authors: Enayet Asma , Razzaque Md. , Hassan Mohammad , Almogren Ahmad , Alamri Atif
Published: December 2014

The problem of moving target tracking in directional sensor networks (DSNs) introduces new research challenges, including optimal selection of sensing and communication sectors of the directional sensor nodes, determination of the precise location of the target and an energy-efficient data collection mechanism. Existing solutions allow individual sensor nodes to detect the target’s location through collaboration among neighboring nodes, where most of the sensors are activated and communicate with the sink. Therefore, they incur much overhead, loss of energy and reduced target tracking accuracy. In this paper, we have proposed a clustering algorithm, where distributed cluster heads coordinate their member nodes in optimizing the active sensing and communication directions of the nodes, precisely determining the target location by aggregating reported sensing data from multiple nodes and transferring the resultant location information to the sink. Thus, the proposed target tracking mechanism minimizes the sensing redundancy and maximizes the number of sleeping nodes in the network. We have also investigated the dynamic approach of activating sleeping nodes on-demand so that the moving target tracking accuracy can be enhanced while maximizing the network lifetime. We have carried out our extensive simulations in ns-3, and the results show that the proposed mechanism achieves higher performance compared to the state-of-the-art works.
A Smart City Application: A Fully Controlled Street Lighting Isle Based on Raspberry-Pi Card, a ZigBee Sensor Network and WiMAX
Authors: Leccese Fabio , Cagnetti Marco , Trinca Daniele
Published: December 2014

A smart city application has been realized and tested. It is a fully remote controlled isle of lamp posts based on new technologies. It has been designed and organized in different hierarchical layers, which perform local activities to physically control the lamp posts and transmit information with another for remote control. Locally, each lamp post uses an electronic card for management and a ZigBee tlc network transmits data to a central control unit, which manages the whole isle. The central unit is realized with a Raspberry-Pi control card due to its good computing performance at very low price. Finally, a WiMAX connection was tested and used to remotely control the smart grid, thus overcoming the distance limitations of commercial Wi-Fi networks. The isle has been realized and tested for some months in the field.
Fabrication of a PMN-PT Single Crystal-Based Transcranial Doppler Transducer and the Power Regulation of Its Detection System
Authors: Yue Qingwen , Liu Dongxu , Wang Wei , Di Wenning , Lin Di , Wang Xi'an , Luo Haosu
Published: December 2014

Doppler sonographic measurement of flow velocity in the basal cerebral arteries through the intact skull was developed using a pulsed Doppler technique and 2 MHz emitting frequency. Relaxor-based ferroelectric single crystals Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) were chosen to be the piezoelectric transducer material due to their ultrahigh piezoelectric coefficients, high electromechanical coupling coefficients and low dielectric loss. The pulse-echo response of the transducer was measured using the conventional pulse-echo method in a water bath at room temperature. The −6 dB bandwidth of the transducer is 68.4% and the sensitivity is −17.4 dB. In order to get a good match between transducer and detection system, different transmission powers have been regulated by changing the impedance of the transmitting electric circuit. In the middle cerebral artery (MCA) measurement photograph results, as the transmission power is increasing, the detection results become clearer and clearer. A comparison at the same transmission power for different transducers shows that the detection photograph obtained by the crystal transducer was clearer than that obtained with a commercial transducer, which should make it easier for doctors to find the cerebral arteries.
An Electrochemical Microsensor Based on a AuNPs-Modified Microband Array Electrode for Phosphate Determination in Fresh Water Samples
Authors: Wang Fangfang , Tong Jianhua , Li Yang , Bian Chao , Sun Jizhou , Xia Shanhong
Published: December 2014

This work describes the fabrication, characterization, and application of a gold microband array electrode (MAE) for the determination of phosphate in fresh water samples. The working principle of this MAE is based on the reduction of a molybdophosphate complex using the linear sweep voltammetric (LSV) method. The calibration of this microsensor was performed with standard phosphate solutions prepared with KH2PO4 and pH adjusted to 1.0. The microsensor consists of a platinum counter electrode, a gold MAE as working electrode, and an Ag/AgCl electrode as reference electrode. The microelectrode chips were fabricated by the Micro Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) technique. To improve the sensitivity, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were electrodeposited on the working electrode. With a linear range from 0.02 to 0.50 mg P/L, the sensitivity of the unmodified microsensor is 2.40 µA per (mg P/L) (R2 = 0.99) and that of the AuNPs-modified microsensor is 7.66 µA per (mg P/L) (R2 = 0.99). The experimental results showed that AuNPs-modified microelectrode had better sensitivity and a larger current response than the unmodified microelectrode.
An Architecture for Measuring Joint Angles Using a Long Period Fiber Grating-Based Sensor
Authors: Perez-Ramirez Carlos , Almanza-Ojeda Dora , Guerrero-Tavares Jesus , Mendoza-Galindo Francisco , Estudillo-Ayala Julian , Ibarra-Manzano Mario
Published: December 2014

The implementation of signal filters in a real-time form requires a tradeoff between computation resources and the system performance. Therefore, taking advantage of low lag response and the reduced consumption of resources, in this article, the Recursive Least Square (RLS) algorithm is used to filter a signal acquired from a fiber-optics-based sensor. In particular, a Long-Period Fiber Grating (LPFG) sensor is used to measure the bending movement of a finger. After that, the Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) technique allows us to classify the corresponding finger position along the motion range. For these measures to help in the development of an autonomous robotic hand, the proposed technique can be straightforwardly implemented on real time platforms such as Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or Digital Signal Processors (DSP). Different angle measurements of the finger’s motion are carried out by the prototype and a detailed analysis of the system performance is presented.
Robust Huber-Based Iterated Divided Difference Filtering with Application to Cooperative Localization of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Gao Wei , Liu Yalong , Xu Bo
Published: December 2014

A new algorithm called Huber-based iterated divided difference filtering (HIDDF) is derived and applied to cooperative localization of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) supported by a single surface leader. The position states are estimated using acoustic range measurements relative to the leader, in which some disadvantages such as weak observability, large initial error and contaminated measurements with outliers are inherent. By integrating both merits of iterated divided difference filtering (IDDF) and Huber’s M-estimation methodology, the new filtering method could not only achieve more accurate estimation and faster convergence contrast to standard divided difference filtering (DDF) in conditions of weak observability and large initial error, but also exhibit robustness with respect to outlier measurements, for which the standard IDDF would exhibit severe degradation in estimation accuracy. The correctness as well as validity of the algorithm is demonstrated through experiment results.
Let the Weakest Link Go! Empirical Explorations on the Relative Importance of Weak and Strong Ties on Social Networking Sites
Authors: Krämer Nicole , Rösner Leonie , Eimler Sabrina , Winter Stephan , Neubaum German
Published: December 2014

Theoretical approaches as well as empirical results in the area of social capital accumulation on social networking sites suggest that weak ties/bridging versus strong ties/bonding social capital should be distinguished and that while bonding social capital is connected to emotional support, bridging social capital entails the provision of information. Additionally, recent studies imply the notion that weak ties/bridging social capital are gaining increasing importance in today’s social media environments. By means of a survey (N = 317) we challenged these presuppositions by assessing the social support functions that are ascribed to three different types of contacts from participants’ network (weak, medium, or strong tie). In contrast to theoretical assumptions, we do not find that weak ties are experienced to supply informational support whereas strong ties first and foremost provide emotional support. Instead we find that within social networking sites, strong ties are perceived to provide both emotional and informational support and weak ties are perceived as less important than recent literature assumes.
Can Health and Environmental Concerns Meet in Food Choices?
Authors: Cavaliere Alessia , Ricci Elena , Solesin Matteo , Banterle Alessandro
Published: December 2014

The objective of the study is to analyze if there is a relationship between health and environmental sustainability concerns in food choices. We used data of 300 Italian consumers collected through a vis-à-vis survey. We performed cross-tabulations and chi-square tests for a selected set of variables measuring both types of concerns, segmenting the sample by age, gender and education. Our results suggest that the association between health and environmental concerns is often statistically significant, though we observe a high variable specificity of the associations. Socio-demographic conditions seem to play a role in determining the association between the two concerns, with middle-aged and/or highly-educated respondents showing a stronger association between health and environmental concerns.
Synthesis of divalent ligands of β-thio- and β-N-galactopyranosides and related lactosides and their evaluation as substrates and inhibitors of Trypanosoma cruzi trans-sialidase
Authors: Cano María Emilia , Agusti Rosalía , Cagnoni Alejandro J , Tesoriero María Florencia , Kovensky José , Uhrig María Laura , de Lederkremer Rosa M
Published: December 2014

In this work we describe the synthesis of mono- and divalent β-N- and β-S-galactopyranosides and related lactosides built on sugar scaffolds and their evaluation as substrates and inhibitors of the Trypanosoma cruzi trans-sialidase (TcTS). This enzyme catalyzes the transfer of sialic acid from an oligosaccharidic donor in the host, to parasite βGalp terminal units and it has been demonstrated that it plays an important role in the infection. Herein, the enzyme was also tested as a tool for the chemoenzymatic synthesis of sialic acid containing glycoclusters. The transfer reaction of sialic acid was performed using a recombinant TcTS and 3’-sialyllactose as sialic acid donor, in the presence of the acceptor having βGalp non reducing ends. The products were analyzed by high performance anion exchange chromatography with pulse amperometric detection (HPAEC-PAD). The ability of the different S-linked and N-linked glycosides to inhibit the sialic acid transfer reaction from 3’-sialyllactose to the natural substrate N-acetyllactosamine, was also studied. Most of the substrates behaved as good acceptors and moderate competitive inhibitors. A di-N-lactoside showed to be the strongest competitive inhibitor among the compounds tested (70% inhibition at equimolar concentration). The usefulness of the enzymatic trans-sialylation for the preparation of sialylated ligands was assessed by performing a preparative sialylation of a divalent substrate, which afforded the monosialylated compound as main product, together with the disialylated glycocluster.
CREATIVITY AND AESTHETIC APPLIED TO ECOLOGICAL EDUCATION / KŪRYBIŠKUMAS IR ESTETIKA EKOLOGINĖJE EDUKACIJOJE
Authors: Juzefovič Agnieška
Published: December 2014

The present research attempts to reveal how ecological (environmental) education could be conveyed through aesthetic, visual art and various creative projects. Over a long time philosophers had developed the implementation of art as a powerful tool of education. Writers, painters themselves also quite often understood their mission as a didactical one which may support and improve system of education of their time. The author will exhibit various reasons why creative education performed with the help of arts were supportive to a cultivation of ecological skills. Different aspects of Chinese thought, particularly Daoism, are presented through their potential usability for contemporary creative education of ecological topics. The author also highlights some limits and difficulties of using Chinese philosophical ideas for contemporary Western culture. Finally various creative projects used in raising ecological awareness are analyzed on their efficiency for education.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje nagrinėjama, kokiais aspektais ekologinė edukacija gali būti vykdoma pasitelkus estetiką, vizualiuosius menus ir įvairius kūrybinius projektus. Jau prieš daugelį šimtmečių filosofai bei pedagogikos teoretikai pastebėjo ir pabrėžė, kad menas yra galingas edukacinis įrankis. Rašytojai, dailininkai taip pat neretai jausdavosi turintys didaktinę misiją ir siekė plėtoti bei tobulinti savo laikmečio edukacinę sistemą. Straipsnyje nagrinėjamos įvairios priežastys, lemiančios, kad kūrybinė edukacija vykdoma pasitelkus įvairius menus ir geba efektyviai formuoti ekologinius įgūdžius. Taip pat nagrinėjami įvairūs kinų mąstymo tradicijų aspektai, daugiausia dėmesio sutelkiant ties daoizmo mąstymo tradicija, kuri gali būti sėkmingai panaudojama kūrybiškai taikant ekologinę edukaciją. Autorė atskleidžia kai kuriuos pavojus bei ribotumus, su kuriais susiduriama bandant kinų mąstymo tradicijose plėtojamas interpretacijas pritaikyti dabartinei Vakarų kultūrai. Taip pat parodoma, kaip įvairūs kūrybiniai projektai taikomi ugdant ekologinį žmonių sąmoningumą, svarstoma, kokios priežastys lemia jų populiarumą ir sėkmingumą.

Reikšminiai žodžiai: estetika, kūrybinė edukacija, daoizmas, ekologinė edukacija, aplinka, vizualieji menai, Vakarų filosofija.
Les médecins grands et beaux sont-ils plus souvent perçus comme de « grands » médecins ?
Authors: Macé Serge , Wolff François-Charles
Published: December 2014

Objectif : Examiner dans quelle mesure les caractéristiques physiques telles que la taille, la corpulence et l’apparence physique des médecins traitants sont corrélées à la confiance que leur portent leurs patients, le degré auquel ils suivent leur prescription et l’évaluation qu’ils font de leur compétence. Méthode : Enquête par questionnaire auprès de 1161 jeunes adultes (âge moyen = 20,1 ans). Résultats : La confiance des patients, le degré auquel ils suivent leurs prescriptions et la compétence qu’ils attribuent à leur médecin traitant sont corrélés positivement avec sa taille et sa beauté physique, mais négativement avec son âge et sa corpulence. Le sexe du médecin n’a pas d’incidence sur le jugement.
Valorisation d'un parcours de soins : entre difficultés et alternatives
Authors: Chkair Sihame , Bouvet Sophie , Daurès Jean-Pierre , Landais Paul , Castelli Christel
Published: December 2014

L’évolution démographique, les maladies chroniques en constante augmentation, l’organisation sous-optimale de la prise en charge des patients ont conduit à une hausse substantielle des dépenses de santé. Le système de santé doit nécessairement s’adapter pour prendre en compte ces évolutions dans un contexte de budget contraint. Une des réformes consiste en la nécessité de mettre en place un parcours de soins organisé et coordonné autour du médecin traitant qui orientera le patient vers un parcours efficient, limitant ainsi la surconsommation de soins inutiles. Le sujet fait débat sur son périmètre, son contenu et ses modalités organisationnelles. L’objectif de ce travail est de proposer une méthodologie permettant de définir une tarification par parcours comme outil de régulation. Pour cela, en introduction nous revenons sur le contexte français et international du parcours de soins. Une réflexion autour du périmètre et du contenu de celui-ci est ensuite proposée afin d’en estimer le coût puis d’établir une tarification par parcours. Un exemple de modélisation du parcours de soins dans le cas du diagnostic du cancer de la prostate est présenté à titre illustratif.
De la T2A à HPST : quelle contribution du contrôle de gestion au pilotage de la performance ? Étude de cas d'un CHU
Authors: Dos Santos Catherine , Mousli Morad , Randriamiarana Joëlle
Published: December 2014

Les différentes réformes de l’hôpital public ces dernières années ont modifié aussi bien la perception de la notion de performance que la logique de fixation et de mise en œuvre des objectifs opérationnels. Attendu que la littérature portant sur l’évolution du contrôle de gestion des établissements hospitaliers a abordé les changements de paradigmes principalement sous l’angle à la fois systémique et instrumental, l’article cherchera à la comprendre également du point de vue de ses missions et du rôle des contrôleurs. Il s’articule autour d’une enquête conduite dans un centre hospitalier universitaire. Les résultats soulignent les changements de finalités de la fonction contrôle de gestion autour d’une organisation et de rôles spécifiques de dimension cybernétique plus idoines à l’exercice d’une fonction de pilotage de la performance. Cependant, l’aide à la mise en œuvre des objectifs semble mal assumée par le contrôle de gestion, en particulier en raison de l’absence d’outils soulignant l’importance du rôle attribué aux contrôleurs dans leur relation avec les chefs de pôles.
Bovine colostrum supplementation optimises earnings, performance and recovery in racing Thoroughbreds
Authors: Fenger C.K. , Tobin T. , Casey P.J. , Roualdes E.A. , Langemeier J.L. , Haines D.M.
Published: December 2014

Bovine colostrum (BC) is the first milk produced by cows after calving and contains numerous beneficial substances for the immunity and development of the newborn calf. Because of the growth and immune factors in BC, it has become an attractive supplement for use by athletes to support immunity and health during athletic performance. In order to evaluate the effects of oral BC supplementation on equine athletes, this study evaluated the earnings, performance, recovery and incidence of upper respiratory infections (URTI) in racing horses. The study design was a randomized cross-over racing performance study. 21 horses in race training were randomly assigned to train and compete with or without BC supplementation. After each horse competed in three races, it was crossed over to the other group, allowed a three week washout period, and then competed in three additional races. Horses in public training stables of 3 participating trainers were used. Race performance as determined by earnings, Bloodstock Research Information System (BRIS) speed figures, recovery as determined by number of days between races and incidence of upper respiratory tract disease was recorded. 11 horses completed the study. There was no effect of the order of BC supplementation on the measured variables. Horses on BC supplementation earned $ 2,088 more purse money per race, than when unsupplemented (P=0.016), and ran an average of 5 BRIS speed points higher (P=0.03). Horses returned to racing on average 7.5 days faster (16.9 days vs 24.4 days, P=0.048). There were no URTI among the horses on BC supplementation and two infections while not on BC supplementation (z-test, P=0.11). Statistical analysis showed that horses recovered more quickly, earned three times more money and raced better as judged by BRIS scores while competing with BC supplementation. BC supplemented horses also experienced fewer URTI, although this effect was not significant.
Nursing Clinical Faculty Revisited: The Benefits of Developing Staff Nurses as Clinical Scholars
Authors: Kowalski Karren , Horner Marianne , Carroll Kimberly , Center Deborah , Foss Katherine , Jarrett Sara , Kane Lee Ann
Published: December 2014

One of the major contributing factors to the nursing shortage in Colorado and nationally is a scarcity of clinical faculty required to prepare new nurses. This article describes an innovative, collaborative project that purposefully prepares staff nurses to assume the role of clinical scholar. Although there are several models that have sought to make clinically expert nurses available as teaching faculty, the breadth and scope of the described project with its multiple partners is unique. In the first year of this grant, the identified goals were achieved. In addition, there have been significant serendipitous outcomes.
Distance Education and the Integration of E-learning in a Graduate Program
Authors: Lewis Peter A. , Price Susan
Published: December 2014

Historically, distance education consisted of a combination of face-to-face blocks of time and surface mailed packages. However, advances in information technology literacy and the abundance of personal computers has placed e-learning in increased demand. The authors describe the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the blending of e-learning with face-to-face education in the postgraduate nursing forum. Experiences of this particular student group are also discussed.
Outcome Evaluation: Does Continuing Education Make a Difference?
Authors: Bell Dorothy F. , Pestka Elizabeth , Forsyth Diane
Published: December 2014

This article describes how an outcome evaluation model was used for a 1-day continuing education conference focusing on genomics implications for nursing practice. Findings from this evaluation process are described, including results from subjects who participated in surveys prior to the conference (
n
= 119), immediately after the conference (
n
= 119), and 3 months after the conference (
n
= 59). Significant differences in overall genomics knowledge were measured before and immediately after the conference and these gains were maintained 3 months following the conference. There also was evidence that the conference participants used the information gained through continuing education to transform their nursing practice. This model can be used to evaluate continuing education, especially with newer knowledge such as genomics.
Information Technology Integration in Higher Education: A Novel Approach for Impact Assessment
Authors: Al-Alwani Abdulkareem
Published: December 2014

In the current technological world of Information services, academic systems are also in the process of adapting information technology solutions. Information systems vary for different applications and specifically in academia domain, a range of information systems are available for different institutions worldwide. Integration of e-learning can optimize implementation of computer-based and computer-assisted educational processes at all levels. Therefore it is imperative to assess and evaluate integration of these information systems because they have serious impact on e-learning processes. In this study an instrument survey is presented for evaluating integration of information technology systems and practices in an educational environment. Survey is constructed using descriptive questions related to information technology tools to assess qualitative impact and usage of such tools. Critical feedback, analysis and suggestions from 25 educationists played a pivotal role in finalizing proposed survey questionnaire. A subsequent test evaluation by teachers and students is also carried out to assess adequate utilization of information systems in Yanbu University College. The results showed that feedback using this survey can help in identifying technological gaps and facilitate effective integration of information technology in an educational environment. Survey instrument proposed in this research can greatly enhance integration of IT tools as it can identify shortcomings by collecting statistical data from feedback of both faculty and students. Solution to these problems is deterministic and can be easily implemented to optimize overall performance of e-learning systems.
Transmedia Storytelling and the Creation of a Converging Space of Educational Practices
Authors: Rodrigues Patrícia , Bidarra José
Published: December 2014

As the media landscape evolves, educators are tapping into learning opportunities that meet the needs of 21st century learners. This paper provides an entry point to a relevant social problem related to education with Transmedia Storytelling, a story that crosses multiple forms of media, and each delivers a unique or specific contribution to the story experience. This study aims to contribute to the development and application of Transmedia Storytelling in educational settings. For this purpose a set of frameworks and educational models were selected based on research that points to the widespread use of transmedia learning experiences that are authentic, engaging, immersive, as well as support the development of new literacies. Ultimately, we attempt to demonstrate how the creation of a transmedia learning environment will allow the learner to develop and thrive in the digital age.
Long-Term Monitoring of Endangered Laysan Ducks: Index Validation and Population Estimates 1998–2012
Authors: Reynolds Michelle H. , Courtot Karen N. , Brinck Kevin W. , Rehkemper Cynthia L. , Hatfield Jeff S.
Published: December 2014

Monitoring endangered wildlife is essential to assessing management or recovery objectives and learning about population status. We tested assumptions of a population index for endangered Laysan duck (or teal; Anas laysanensis) monitored using mark–resight methods on Laysan Island, Hawai'i. We marked 723 Laysan ducks between 1998 and 2009 and identified seasonal surveys through 2012 that met accuracy and precision criteria for estimating population abundance. Our results provide a 15-y time series of seasonal population estimates at Laysan Island. We found differences in detection among seasons and how observed counts related to population estimates. The highest counts and the strongest relationship between count and population estimates occurred in autumn (September–November). The best autumn surveys yielded population abundance estimates that ranged from 674 (95% CI = 619–730) in 2003 to 339 (95% CI = 265–413) in 2012. A population decline of 42% was observed between 2010 and 2012 after consecutive storms and Japan's Tōhoku earthquake-generated tsunami in 2011. Our results show positive correlations between the seasonal maximum counts and population estimates from the same date, and support the use of standardized bimonthly counts of unmarked birds as a valid index to monitor trends among years within a season at Laysan Island.
Just a crush? Contamination of archaeological samples by different grinding media
Authors: Ten Bruggencate Rachel E. , Fayek Mostafa , Milne Brooke , Park Robert W. , Stenton Douglas R.
Published: December 2014

A chert cobble from an archaeological quarry on southern Baffin Island, Canada, was divided and crushed using five different methods: i) agate mortar and pestle, ii) stainless steel shatterbox, iii) tungsten carbide shatterbox, iv) alumina ceramic shatterbox, and v) zirconia ceramic shatterbox. Powders produced by each method were submitted for acid digestion and analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The trace element results indicate that different crushing media can contribute significant trace element contamination to chert during the grinding process. These results demonstrate the need for an informed approach to the selection of sample preparation methods when submitting archaeological samples for solution or pellet based geochemical analysis.
Lorazepam provocation test in purported schizophrenia with lack of treatment response
Authors: Berg John E.
Published: December 2014

Some patients with severe mental disorders are refractory to psychotherapeutic or psychopharmacological interventions. We present a patient who at the age of 19 developed several schizophrenia - suspect symptoms. Soon inexplicable general seizures where observed. He was treated with antipsychotics, but had two bouts of malignant neuroleptic syndrome. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) gave some symptom relief and he continued on maintenance ECT for years with weekly intervals. Interruption of this treatment pattern rapidly increased symptom load. After seven years a lorazepam provocation test was performed as he had a new relapse after 3 weeks without ECT. In the ensuing hours his aggressiveness and nonsense speaking rapidly diminished. Kahlbaums observation of seizures as part of a catatonia was not understood in this case. The publication of the new DSM-V diagnosis of catatonia may hopefully reduce the probability of treating a patient for schizophrenia for years without access to a more targeted medication and ECT plan.
PREVALENCE OF ALPHA THALASSEMIA IN MICROCYTIC ANEMIA: A TERTIARY CARE EXPERIENCE FROM NORTH INDIA
Authors: Sharma Monica , Pandey Sanjay , Ranjan Ravi , Seth Tulika , Saxena Renu
Published: December 2014

IntroductionCases with microcytosis not responding adequately to iron supplementation are diagnostic dilemma and have been reported to harbor alpha (α) thalassemia mutations. The aim of this study was to identify and determine the common α globin gene deletions in cases with  microcytic anemia.Methods Fifty four patients selected (22 females and 32 males) had microcytic anemia (MCV < 80 fl, Hemoglobin Hb <12gm/dl) with raised TRBC (> 5M/mm3) but normal HbHPLC. They had either low or normal Transferrin Saturation (TS). Gap-PCR for four common a-gene deletions (-a3.7, -a4.2, - -aSA and --aSEA) was done.Results Out of the total fifty four microcytic anemia cases nineteen (35.2%) were found to have  a gene mutations; Three homozygous and sixteen heterozygous  cases of chiefly -a3.7 deletions, a single case of -- a SA  were noted  ; but no -a4.2 and –SEA  mutations  were found.Conclusion In India a gene mutations may be much more than what has been documented and its presence should be considered as a causes of relentless microcytic anemia not responding to iron. It can confound iron deficiency anemia hence its coexistence should be sought  even in the face of low iron stores in subjects who respond incompletely to iron supplementation. Since no RBC indices or a discriminant function can identify its presence only molecular studies commonly using  Gap PCR for common α thalassemia deletions mutation including – α SA need to be done for their detection.
Soul and body: Transcending the dialectical intellectual legacy of the West with an integral biblical view?
Authors: Strauss Danie
Published: December 2014

Greek philosophy informed the Medieval dualistic understanding of ‘body’ and ‘soul’, which continued to influence modern Humanism and Christian views during and after the Middle Ages. These fluctuating conceptions express the directing role of dialectical basic motives. It was mainly the Greek motive of matter and form which directed the thought of Plato and Aristotle, resulting in a dualistic view of the relationship between a so-called material body and rational soul. At the Council of Vienne (1312), the Aristotelian-Thomistic doctrine of the soul as the substantial form of the body was adopted. Within Protestant circles, the‘two-substances’ view caused a distinction between a (temporal) material body and an (eternal) rational soul (see article 7 of the Swiss Confessio Helvetica Posterior and the Westminster Confession Chapter 4, paragraph 2). Dooyeweerd shows how modern philosophy has received its deepest motivation from the dialectical motive of nature and freedom, which informed the development from Descartes up to Gould and Jaspers. Finally, in the last sections, the main contours of a biblically informed view are articulated with reference to the centrality of the human I-ness, to the theory of enkaptic interlacements and to the problem of supra-temporality.Siel en liggaam: Is dit moontlik om die dialektiese intellektuele erfenis van die Westevanuit ‘n integrale bybelse siening te bowe te kom? Die Griekse filosofie vorm die agtergrond van die Middeleeuse dualistiese verstaan van ‘liggaam’ en ‘siel’ wat op sy beurt die moderne Humanisme en latere Christelike opvattinge beïnvloed het – almal in die greep van dialektiese grondmotiewe. Dit was hoofsaaklik die Griekse basiese vorm-materie-motief wat die dualistiese siening van ’n materie-liggaam en ’n redelike siel tot gevolg gehad het, soos dit in die denke van Plato en Aristoteles beslag gekry het. By die Konsilie van Wenen (1312) is die Aristotelies-Thomistiese leerstuk van die siel as substansiële vorm van die liggaam aanvaar. In Protestantse kringe het die ‘twee substansies’-siening tot die onderskeiding tussen ’n (tydelike) materie-liggaam en ’n (ewige) redelike siel (vgl. artikel 7 van die Switserse Confessio Helvetica Posterior en die Westminster Confession Hoofstuk 4, paragraaf 2) aanleiding gegee. Dooyeweerd toon aan hoedanig die moderne filosofie sy diepste motivering vanuit die dialektiese grondmotief van natuur en vryheid ontvang, wat rigting sou gee aan diedialektiese ontwikkeling vanaf Descartes tot en met Gould en Jaspers. Aan die einde word die hoof-kontoere van ’n bybels-geïnspireerde siening geartikuleer, met verwysing na die sentrale posisie van die menslike selfheid, na die teorie van enkaptiese struktuurvervlegting en na die probleem van bo-tydelikheid.
Effects of resting perennial pastures during the sensitive pre-dormancy period in western Manitoba: Pasture productivity and beef cattle performance
Authors: Durunna Obioha N. , Baron Vern , Scott Shannon L. , Robins Clayton , Khakbazan Mohammad , Block Hushton C.
Published: December 2014

Durunna, O. N., Baron, V., Scott, S. L., Robins, C., Khakbazan, M. and Block, H. C. 2015. Effects of resting perennial pastures during the sensitive pre-dormancy period in western Manitoba: Pasture productivity and beef cattle performance. Can. J. Anim. Sci. 95: 129–141. The objective of this experiment was to determine whether avoiding grazing during the sensitive pre-dormancy period (ca. 6 wk prior to a dormancy-inducing frost) would improve forage production, stand quality, alfalfa persistence and animal productivity in perennial pastures. There were two pasture species (PS), alfalfa–grass (AG) or grass (G), and three grazing phases. Phase I was conventional rotational grazing of all AG and G sections. In Phase II, one half of AG and G was rotationally grazed (conventional treatment, CT) while the other half was not (rested treatment, RT). Resting AG and G in Phase II required transferring RT animals to swath-graze early-seeded cereals. In Phase III, RT animals that swath-grazed in Phase II were moved to graze the rested sections of the pastures while those that grazed the unrested sections (CT animals) were transferred to swath-graze late-seeded cereals. There was no PS (P>0.05) or rest period (P>0.13) effect on total forage yield, carrying capacity, forage disappearance and forage residues. There was no effect (P>0.13) of resting on botanical composition or yield in AG. The current study did not observe significant benefits of resting on pasture yield, botanical composition or animal performance.
Using Standardized Patients to Teach Point-of-Care Ultrasound-Guided Physical Examination Skills to Internal Medicine Residents
Authors: Skalski Joseph H. , Elrashidi Muhamad , Reed Darcy A. , McDonald Furman S. , Bhagra Anjali
Published: December 2014

Background

Point-of-care (POC) ultrasound has been shown to improve procedural outcomes and physical examination accuracy in multiple settings. There are limited data regarding the optimal way to train nonradiologists in POC ultrasound. This is a primary barrier to more widespread use of ultrasound in the physical examination.

Objective

We created a workshop to instruct postgraduate year (PGY)-2 and PGY-3 internal medicine residents in POC ultrasound imaging of the abdominal aorta and kidneys.

Methods

A half-day simulation center workshop was created to review ultrasound operations and teach residents to independently obtain ultrasound images of the abdominal aorta and kidneys on standardized patients with normal anatomy. The workshop incorporated didactic instruction and hands-on ultrasound practice in small groups. Each resident's ability to independently obtain ultrasound images was assessed using a preworkshop and postworkshop skills examination with a standardized patient. Resident knowledge and attitudes toward POC ultrasound were also assessed using a preworkshop and postworkshop test and survey.

Results

A total of 58 residents completed the workshop, and 84% were able to independently obtain high-quality images of the abdominal aorta and kidney after workshop completion, compared with 16% on the preworkshop test. Residents demonstrated a statistically significant increase in their self-reported confidence with ultrasound operation and image acquisition.

Conclusions

Training using standardized patients can prepare residents to independently obtain POC ultrasound images of the aorta and kidneys. Training resulted in increased resident confidence with POC ultrasound and self-reported likelihood of future use.
Medicine in 2035: Selected Insights From ACGME's Scenario Planning
Authors: J. Nasca Thomas , W. Thomas Charles
Published: December 2014

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has the responsibility for overseeing the preparation of future physician specialists and subspecialists to serve the American public. To ensure ACGME's ability to adapt and sustain its accreditation activities in a future marked by significant uncertainty, its administration and board of directors embarked on a planning process that would frame its strategic actions in support of this responsibility. We describe the scenario planning process, and report key insights that resulted from it. We also discuss in greater depth a subset of those insights, which challenge certain conventional truths, call for new collaborative directions for the ACGME, and reaffirm the importance of professionalism in service of the public across all future scenarios evaluated.
Pharmacological and toxicological profile of opioid-treated, chronic low back pain patients entering a mindfulness intervention randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zgierska, MD, PhD Aleksandra , Wallace, PharmD, BCACP Margaret L. , Burzinski, MS Cindy A. , Cox, BS Jennifer , Backonja, MD Miroslav
Published: December 2014

Objective: Refractory chronic low back pain (CLBP) often leads to treatment with long-term opioids. Our goal was to describe the pharmaco-toxicological profile of opioid-treated CLBP patients and identify potential areas for care optimization.Design: Cross-sectional analysis.Setting: Outpatient primary care.Participants: CLBP patients prescribed ≥ 30 mg/d of morphine-equivalent dose (MED) for ≥3 months.Outcome Measures: Self-reported clinical, medication (verified) and substance use, and urine drug testing (UDT) data were collected.Results: Participants (N = 35) were 51.8 ± 9.7 years old, 80 percent female with CLBP for 14.2 ± 10.1 years, treated with opioids for 7.9 ± 5.7 years, with severe disability (Oswestry Disability Index score: 66.7 ± 11.4), and average pain score of 5.6 ± 1.5 (0-10 rating scale). Participants reported using tobacco (N = 14), alcohol (N = 9) and illicit drugs or unprescribed medications (N = 10). On average, participants took 13.4 ± 6.8 daily medications, including 4.7 ± 1.8 pain-modulating and 4.7 ± 2.0 sedating medications. Among prescribed opioids, 57.1 percent were long-acting and 91.4 percent were short-acting, with a total of 144.5 ± 127.8 mg/d of MED. Sixteen participants were prescribed benzodiazepines and/or zolpidem/zaleplon. Fifteen participants had UDT positive for illicit drugs or unprescribed medications; in addition, eight tested positive for alcohol and 19 for cotinine. Compared to those with negative UDTs, those with positive UDTs (N = 15) received lower daily “total” and “extended release” opioid doses, and were more likely to test positive for cotinine (p < 0.05).Conclusions: Study findings corroborate existing evidence for high medication burden and high likelihood of substance misuse among opioid-treated CLBP patients. Further research is needed to help understand causality and ways to optimize care and clinical outcomes.
Appendix: Educational gaps among healthcare providers: An institution needs assessment to improve pain management for postsurgical patients
Authors: González-Fernández Marlís , Aboumatar Hanan , Conti Deena , Patel Amit M. , Purvin Michael A. , Hanna Marie
Published: December 2014

Objective: Nurses should be educated in pain management because they are more likely than other healthcare professionals to educate patients about their pain. The authors sought to identify the knowledge gaps in postoperative pain management among postsurgical nursing staff and the existence of institutional policies and educational programs to support them in delivering optimal pain management services.

Setting: Academic hospital.

Participants: Two hundred seventy-seven registered nurses, nurse practitioners, nurse managers, physician assistants, and other health professionals.

Interventions: Nurses participated in an online, anonymous survey that consisted of 43 questions in two broad categories: (1) knowledge and attitudes about pain management and (2) institutional pain management and assessment. 

Main Outcome Measure: Knowledge base of surgical nursing staff regarding postoperative pain management.Results: The overall mean knowledge score was 44.84 percent, with the highest percent of correct answers in the cancer pain category (54.03 percent). Recognition of signs and symptoms of pain had the lowest correct response rate (40.91 percent). Forty-nine percent of respondents reported that pain management protocols tailored to the specific population treated were available, 42 percent reported that patient pain education was always performed, 29 percent reported that they received regular training about pain management, and 17 percent had access to national pain management guidelines.

Conclusion: The survey results demonstrate general gaps in pain management knowledge among nurses, particularly in recognizing signs and symptoms of pain. This work may guide the development of programs that improve postoperative pain management by increasing the frequency of nurses' pain education and improving the availability of pain-related policies and protocols.
A multicenter, 12-month, open-label, single-arm safety study of oxycodone-hydrochloride/naltrexone-hydrochloride extended-release capsules (ALO-02) in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic noncancer pain
Authors: Arora, MD Samir , Setnik, PhD Beatrice , Drass, MD Michael , Hudson, MD John D. , Clemmer, MS Ray , Meisner, PharmD Paul , Pixton, MS Glenn C. , Goli, MD Veeraindar , Sommerville, MD Kenneth W.
Published: December 2014

Objective: To evaluate the long-term safety of oxycodone-hydrochloride and sequestered naltrexone-hydrochloride (ALO-02) administered for up to 12 months.Design: Open-label, single-arm safety study.Setting: Thirty-two US research centers (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01428583). Patients: Three hundred ninety-five adults (opioid experienced and opioid naïve) with moderate-to-severe chronic noncancer pain (CNCP). Interventions: Open-label, oral ALO-02 capsules, daily dose ranging from 20 to 160 mg oxycodone for up to 12 months.Main outcome measures: Number and type of adverse events (AEs) and drug-related AEs, including assessments of withdrawal (Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale; COWS), pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and aberrant behaviors (Current Opioid Misuse Measure).Results: A total of 193 (48.9 percent) patients received ALO-02 for ≥181 days and 105 (26.6 percent) patients for ≥361 days. The most common treatment-emergent AEs were nausea (25.3 percent), constipation (21.3 percent), vomiting (13.9 percent), and headache (11.6 percent). The most common drug-related AEs were constipation (18.0 percent), nausea (14.9 percent), somnolence (8.4 percent), fatigue (6.8 percent), dizziness (5.6 percent), and vomiting (5.1 percent). A majority of patients (86.6 percent) had a maximum COWS total score below the level for mild withdrawal symptoms at every visit throughout the study. Pain severity scores as measured by the short Form of the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI-SF) decreased over time.Conclusions: Repeat dosing of ALO-02 for up to 12 months is safe and well tolerated in a CNCP population of both opioid-experienced and opioid-naïve patients. ALO-02 demonstrated a safety profile consistent with extended-release opioids and the expected analgesic efficacy. The addition of sequestered naltrexone had no significant clinical effect on patients when taken as directed.