bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-Esteem and Self-Efficacy as Predictors of Attrition in Associate Degree Nursing Students
Authors: Peterson-Graziose Virginia , Bryer Jennifer , Nikolaidou Maria
Published: May 2013

There is a serious and growing shortage of nurses in the United States, and the high rate of student attrition from nursing programs has further added to this problem. The challenge for schools of nursing is to recruit increased numbers of qualified candidates into their programs and to determine ways to decrease the rate of student attrition. The purpose of this study was to determine whether self-esteem, self-efficacy, and life stressors were significantly related to student attrition in first-semester associate degree nursing students. A descriptive correlational design and nonprobability convenience sample of first-semester associate degree nursing students was used. Data were gathered using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Holmes and Rahe Social Readjustment Rating Scale. Findings indicated that self-esteem was significantly associated with student attrition. Results from this study provide the basis for targeted interventions designed to decrease student attrition rates in associate degree nursing programs. [
J Nurs Educ.
2013;52(6):351–354.]
Remote Laboratories - A Cloud Based Model for Teleoperation of Real Laboratories
Authors: Markan CM , Gupta Satendra , Mittal Sajal , Kumar Goutam
Published: May 2013

Remote Triggered Labs provides access to real experiments without time and location restrictions with necessary guidance required to perform experiments. Remote Triggered (RT) Labs have emerged as an alternative to real laboratories and have shifted the past pedagogy from student-centric to teaching-centric approach. Over the past decade several RT experiments have emerged in different parts of the world including those developed under Govt. of Indiaâ??s National Mission on Education through ICT as part of Right to Education (RTE) Program and various approaches have been implemented as to reinforce the use of Remote Labs in higher education. However, as the technology to build RT labs evolves there is a growing concern to adapt methodologies for developing scalable models of RT labs and introducing innovative ideas such as collaborative plans among universities within the RT labs framework. In this paper we propose a cloud based architecture for Remote Triggered Laboratory for Analog Communication. Cloud based models with their various characteristics e.g. - scalability, low cost and maintenance etc. provides several advantages to RT labs. Advanced web technologies are implemented to build up interface for teleoperation of high end instrumentation utilized in RT labs with interactive GUI design frameworks to deliver RT labs in a user friendly and more convenient environment.
Adaptive Control of a Non-Cylindrical Tank
Authors: Nippert Charles , Coburn Rebecca , Shea Brendan , Roth Michael , Harrell Clinton , Owusu Edward
Published: May 2013

A conical tank in which the diameter changes with the tank height, allows the use of feedback control used in complex nonlinear systems, such as adaptive control. This project modified an existing system of two interacting tanks by inserting a removable solid cone into one of the tanks. This modification created two new nonlinear configurations, one of which had a discontinuity. Optimal controller settings at different depths of liquid were found by minimizing the integral of the absolute error (IAE). These settings were used by an adaptive PID controller at a different settings, comparing the results to a conventional PID tuned to that setting.
Design and Verification of On-Line Monitoring & Controlling System of Tensioner
Authors: Mingjie Li , Menglan Duan , Li Lin , Junliang Zhang , Mao Ye , Guangming Cheng
Published: May 2013

Tensioner for deep water pipe-laying vessel is a type of engineering equipment that is applied in sub-sea pipeline laying. Based on the designed tensioner body for S-lay vessel, with the capacity of 200t and can meet the requirements of 3000m water-depth pipe-laying, the corresponding monitoring and controlling system need to be designed. Firstly, the programs of on-line monitoring and controlling system are proposed, and then the software and hardware of the system are designed. In addition, the man-machine interaction interface of the system is developed. This research could provide the guidance for the design of the on-line monitoring and controlling system of 200t tensioner. The test is carried out to verify the functions of the designed on-line monitoring& controlling system. The test results show that the designed system is reliable and also have good maneuverability.
Ground‐penetrating radar investigation inside a karstified limestone reservoir
Authors: Sénéchal Guy , Rousset Dominique , Gaffet Stéphane
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we present ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) investigations performed along a 3.7 km long tunnel located inside a lower Cretaceous limestone massif of south‐eastern France. This fractured massif is mainly characterized by water circulation and karstic structures. This kind of geological formation contains a large part of the fresh underground water resources of the world and is also considered as an analogue of Middle East oil reservoirs. Since tunnel walls are covered by thick reinforced concrete, direct geological observations are impossible.

After some preliminary tests, the entire tunnel was investigated using 250 MHz shielded antennas. Data are generally of very good quality, with reflection time up to 400 ns (down to 18 m under the tunnel floor with a velocity of 9 cm/ns). We correlate the GPR signal along the tunnel with surface geological observations: the upper part of the investigated formation (Bedoulian) displays prominent stratigraphic reflectors while the lower part (Barremian) does not. Numerous diffractions are observed in both formations and can be related to karstic features.

These investigations allow to better constrain the geological context along the tunnel, necessary for future hydrogeological studies. We conclude that this tunnel offers a unique opportunity of performing GPR measurements within a karstified limestone massif.
Geophysical assessment and geotechnical investigation of quick‐clay landslides – a Swedish case study
Authors: Malehmir Alireza , Bastani Mehrdad , Krawczyk Charlotte M. , Gurk Marcus , Ismail Nazli , Polom Ulrich , Perss Lena
Published: May 2013

We present a preliminary assessment of the potential utility of various geophysical measurements carried out over a quick‐clay landslide site in south‐west Sweden. The multidisciplinary approach includes active P‐ and S‐wave seismic investigations, including 2D and 3D reflection and refraction surveys, passive single and 3C seismic surveys, electrical resistivity tomography and electromagnetic surveys including controlled‐source and radio‐magnetotellurics, ground‐penetrating radar and potential field studies. The P‐wave and particularly S‐wave reflection seismic data show a high‐resolution image of bedrock topography and the stratigraphy of a 100 m thick sequence of sediments that lies on top, which include lightly consolidated quick‐clays. Of particular interest is the identification of a layer of relatively coarse‐grained material between 10–20 m below the ground surface. Geotechnical investigations indicate that most but not all quick‐clays at the site are located above this layer. Further studies are required to determine the importance of their relationship and whether the coarse‐grained layer may have had a role in triggering quick‐clay landslides in the region. Geoelectrical and electromagnetic methods provide high‐resolution images of the unconsolidated subsurface and particularly the normal and leached clays. Radio‐magnetotelluric methods proved valuable near the river where traditional geoelectrical methods failed to provide sufficient depth coverage. The study shows that geophysical data are able to image major subsurface structures associated with quick‐clay landslides.
T Cell Costimulation with Anti-CD137 Monoclonal Antibodies Is Mediated by K63–Polyubiquitin-Dependent Signals from Endosomes
Authors: Martinez-Forero Ivan , Azpilikueta Arantza , Bolaños-Mateo Elixabet , Nistal-Villan Estanislao , Palazon Asis , Teijeira Alvaro , Perez-Chacon Gema , Morales-Kastresana Aizea , Murillo Oihana , Jure-Kunkel Maria , Zapata Juan M. , Melero Ignacio
Published: May 2013

Agonist anti-CD137 (4-1BB) mAbs enhance CD8-mediated antitumor immunity. Agonist anti-human CD137 mAbs binding to four distinct epitopes on the CD137 glycoprotein costimulated T cell activation irrespective of the engaged epitope or its interference with CD137L binding. CD137 perturbation with all these agonist mAbs resulted in Ag and Ab internalization toward an endosomal vesicular compartment. Internalization was observed in activated T lymphocytes from humans and mice, not only in culture but also in Ab-injected living animals. These in vivo experiments were carried out upon systemic i.v. injections with anti-CD137 mAbs and showed CD137 internalization in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and in activated human T cells transferred to immunodeficient mice. Efficient CD137 internalization required K63 polyubiquitination and endocytosed CD137-containing vesicles recruited TNFR-associated factor (TRAF) 2 and were decorated with K63 polyubiquitins. CD137 stimulation activates NF-κB through a K63-linked polyubiquitination-dependent route, and CD137-associated TRAF2 becomes K63 polyubiquitinated. Consistent with a role for TRAF2 in CD137 signaling, transgenic mice functionally deficient in TRAF2 showed delayed immunotherapeutic activity of anti-CD137 mAbs. As a whole, these findings advance our knowledge of the mechanisms of action of anti-CD137 immunostimulatory mAbs such as those currently undergoing clinical trials in cancer patients.
Identification of TMEM131L as a Novel Regulator of Thymocyte Proliferation in Humans
Authors: Maharzi Nesrine , Parietti Véronique , Nelson Elisabeth , Denti Simona , Robledo-Sarmiento Macarena , Setterblad Niclas , Parcelier Aude , Pla Marika , Sigaux François , Gluckman Jean Claude , Canque Bruno
Published: May 2013

In this study, we identify transmembrane protein 131–like (TMEM131L) as a novel regulator of thymocyte proliferation and demonstrate that it corresponds to a not as yet reported inhibitor of Wnt signaling. Short hairpin RNA–mediated silencing of TMEM131L in human CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors, which were then grafted in NOD-SCID/IL-2rγnull mice, resulted in both thymocyte hyperproliferation and multiple pre– and post–β-selection intrathymic developmental defects. Consistent with deregulated Wnt signaling, TMEM131L-deficient thymocytes expressed Wnt target genes at abnormally high levels, and they displayed both constitutive phosphorylation of Wnt coreceptor LRP6 and β-catenin intranuclear accumulation. Using T cell factor reporter assays, we found that membrane-associated TMEM131L inhibited canonical Wnt/β-catenin signaling at the LRP6 coreceptor level. Whereas membrane-associated TMEM131L did not affect LRP6 expression under basal conditions, it triggered lysosome-dependent degradation of its active phosphorylated form following Wnt activation. Genetic mapping showed that phosphorylated LRP6 degradation did not depend on TMEM131L cytoplasmic part but rather on a conserved extracellular domain proximal to the membrane. Collectively, these data indicate that, during thymopoiesis, stage-specific surface translocation of TMEM131L may regulate immature single-positive thymocyte proliferation arrest by acting through mixed Wnt-dependent and -independent mechanisms.
Epidemiology of Schistosomiasis in Two High-Risk Communities of South Côte d'Ivoire with Particular Emphasis on Pre-School–Aged Children
Authors: Coulibaly Jean T. , N'Gbesso Yves K. , N'Guessan Nicaise A. , Winkler Mirko S. , Utzinger Jürg , N'Goran Eliézer K.
Published: May 2013

Schistosomiasis control efforts mainly target school–aged children. We studied the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in two high-risk communities in south Côte d'Ivoire, placing particular emphasis on pre-school–aged children. We used a suite of diagnostic techniques, including Kato–Katz, urine filtration, reagent strips, and urine circulating cathodic antigen cassettes. Risk factors for schistosomiasis were determined by focus group discussions and a structured questionnaire. The prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni in the two study villages among the pre-school–aged children (age < 6 years) was 20.9% and 25.0%, whereas several-fold higher prevalences were found in school–aged children (58.7–68.4%) and adolescents/adults (59.5–61.7%). The prevalence of S. haematobium in the three age groups was 5.9–17.3%, 10.9–18.4%, and 3.8–21.3%, respectively. Most participants had light-intensity infections. Mothers' occupations and older siblings play important roles in the epidemiology of schistosomiasis in pre-schoolers. In the current epidemiologic settings, more attention is warranted on pre-school–aged children and adolescents/adults for successful schistosomiasis control.
Rapid Re-Infection with Soil-Transmitted Helminths after Triple-Dose Albendazole Treatment of School-Aged Children in Yunnan, People's Republic of China
Authors: Yap Peiling , Du Zun-Wei , Wu Fang-Wei , Jiang Jin-Yong , Chen Ran , Zhou Xiao-Nong , Hattendorf Jan , Utzinger Jürg , Steinmann Peter
Published: May 2013

Post-treatment soil-transmitted helminth re-infection patterns were studied as part of a randomized controlled trial among school-aged children from an ethnic minority group in Yunnan province, People's Republic of China. Children with a soil-transmitted helminth infection (N = 194) were randomly assigned to triple-dose albendazole or placebo and their infection status monitored over a 6-month period using the Kato-Katz and Baermann techniques. Baseline prevalence of Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm, and Strongyloides stercoralis were 94.5%, 93.3%, 61.3%, and 3.1%, respectively, with more than half of the participants harboring triple-species infections. For the intervention group (N = 99), the 1-month post-treatment cure rates were 96.7%, 91.5%, and 19.6% for hookworm, A. lumbricoides, and T. trichiura, respectively. Egg reduction rates were above 88% for all three species. Rapid re-infection with A. lumbricoides was observed: the prevalence 4 and 6 months post-treatment was 75.8% and 83.8%, respectively. Re-infection with hookworm and T. trichiura was considerably slower.
Transmission of Onchocerca volvulus Continues in Nyagak-Bondo Focus of Northwestern Uganda after 18 Years of a Single Dose of Annual Treatment with Ivermectin
Authors: Katabarwa Moses N. , Lakwo Tom , Habomugisha Peace , Agunyo Stella , Byamukama Edson , Oguttu David , Tukesiga Ephraim , Unoba Dickson , Dramuke Patrick , Onapa Ambrose , Tukahebwa Edridah M. , Lwamafa Dennis , Walsh Frank , Unnasch Thomas R.
Published: May 2013

The objective of the study was to determine whether annual ivermectin treatment in the Nyagak-Bondo onchocerciasis focus could safely be withdrawn. Baseline skin snip microfilariae (mf) and nodule prevalence data from six communities were compared with data collected in the 2011 follow-up in seven communities. Follow-up mf data in 607 adults and 145 children were compared with baseline (300 adults and 58 children). Flies collected in 2011were dissected, and poolscreen analysis was applied to ascertain transmission. Nodule prevalence in adults dropped from 81.7% to 11.0% (P < 0.0001), and mf prevalence dropped from 97.0% to 23.2% (P < 0.0001). In children, mf prevalence decreased from 79.3% to 14.1% (P < 0.0001). Parous and infection rates of 401 flies that were dissected were 52.9% and 1.5%, respectively, whereas the infective rate on flies examination by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was 1.92% and annual transmission potential was 26.9. Stopping ivermectin treatment may result in onchocerciasis recrudescence.
Laboratory and Field Evaluation of a New Rapid Test for Detecting Wuchereria bancrofti Antigen in Human Blood
Authors: Weil Gary J. , Curtis Kurt C. , Fakoli Lawrence , Fischer Kerstin , Gankpala Lincoln , Lammie Patrick J. , Majewski Andrew C. , Pelletreau Sonia , Won Kimberly Y. , Bolay Fatorma K. , Fischer Peter U.
Published: May 2013

Global Program to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) guidelines call for using filarial antigen testing to identify endemic areas that require mass drug administration (MDA) and for post-MDA surveillance. We compared a new filarial antigen test (the Alere Filariasis Test Strip) with the reference BinaxNOW Filariasis card test that has been used by the GPELF for more than 10 years. Laboratory testing of 227 archived serum or plasma samples showed that the two tests had similar high rates of sensitivity and specificity and > 99% agreement. However, the test strip detected 26.5% more people with filarial antigenemia (124/503 versus 98/503) and had better test result stability than the card test in a field study conducted in a filariasis-endemic area in Liberia. Based on its increased sensitivity and other practical advantages, we believe that the test strip represents a major step forward that will be welcomed by the GPELF and the filariasis research community.
The Development of Client-Centredness in Student Occupational Therapists
Authors: Ripat Jacquie , Wener Pamela , Dobinson Kendra
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

While the occupational therapy profession emphasizes the importance of a client-centred approach, the student perspective on development of client-centredness has been absent in the research literature. The purpose of this grounded theory study was to gain an understanding of occupational therapy students' perceptions of the curricular and practice experiences that contributed to their client-centred development.

Method:

Study participants were recruited from three cohorts (n = 29) of an entry-level Canadian occupational therapy programme: students from two separate years of an occupational therapy programme, and graduates from the programme who were 1 year into practice. Researchers conducted six focus groups using a semi-structured interview guide; focus group transcripts were reviewed to develop a coding scheme. Emergent categories were collapsed to develop overarching themes.

Findings:

Six developmental themes were constructed: Internalizing client-centredness; Relationship building; Who is the client?; Systems influences; Academic/practice discrepancy; and Power and control. Each theme was of greater or lesser emphasis at different points, and participants revisited and expanded upon themes throughout their academic programme.

Conclusion:

Academic and placement educators can use the findings of the study to understand how student occupational therapists develop client-centredness. Educators can use this understanding to implement strategies to intentionally foster client-centred development in students at opportune times.
Factors That Influence the Occupational Engagement of Older Adults with Low Vision: A Scoping Review
Authors: McGrath Colleen E , Rudman Debbie Laliberte
Published: May 2013

Introduction:

Prior research has provided occupational therapists with an understanding of the negative impact of low vision on self care, leisure and productivity. In order to guide future low-vision rehabilitation services, an understanding of the factors that influence the occupational engagement of older adults with age-related vision loss (ARVL) is also needed.

Method:

A scoping review of the literature was conducted in order to identify those factors that have been shown to influence the occupational engagement of older adults with ARVL, and to identify future research needs.

Findings:

As identified in this scoping review, five types of factors were shown to influence occupational engagement for older adults with ARVL including: demographic variables, emotional components, behavioural components, diagnostic components, and environmental aspects.

Conclusion:

Although findings pertaining to personal factors can inform practice, few studies explored the influence of environmental factors on occupational engagement. Given that occupation is a result of person-environment transactions, it is important that future research more fully explores environmental influences in order to enable occupational therapists to deliver services that optimize the occupational performance of seniors with ARVL.
Quantifying tracer transport in the tropical lower stratosphere using WACCM
Authors: Abalos M. , Randel W. J. , Kinnison D. E. , Serrano E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The zonal mean transport of ozone and carbon monoxide (CO) near the tropical tropopause is investigated using the Whole-Atmosphere Community Climate Model version 4 (WACCM4). The variability in temperature, ozone and CO in the model shows good agreement with satellite and balloon observations. Modeled temperature and tracers exhibit large and closely coupled annual cycles in the tropical lower stratosphere, as in the observations. The thermodynamic and tracer budgets in the model are analyzed based on the Transformed Eulerian Mean (TEM) framework on log-pressure coordinates and also using the isentropic formulation. Results show that the coupled seasonal cycles are mainly forced by tropical upwelling over altitudes with large vertical tracer gradients, in agreement with previous observational studies. The model also allows explicit calculation of eddy transport terms, which make an important contribution to ozone tendencies in the tropical lower stratosphere. The character of the eddy fluxes changes with altitude. At higher levels (~2 km above the cold point tropopause), isentropic eddy transport occurs during winter and spring in each hemisphere in the sub-tropics, associated with transient Rossby waves acting on strong background latitudinal gradients. At lower altitudes, close to the tropical tropopause, there is a maximum in horizontal eddy transport during boreal summer associated with the Asian monsoon anticyclone. Sub-seasonal variability in ozone and CO, tied to fluctuations in temperature, is primarily driven by transient tropical upwelling. In isentropic coordinates, the overall tracer budgets are similar to the log-pressure results, highlighting cross-isentropic mean advection as the main term in the balance. However, in isentropic coordinates the tracer variability is largely reduced on both seasonal and sub-seasonal timescales, because the tracer and temperature fluctuations are highly correlated (as a response to upwelling).
A framework for global river flood risk assessments
Authors: Winsemius H. C. , Van Beek L. P. H. , Jongman B. , Ward P. J. , Bouwman A.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. There is an increasing need for strategic global assessments of flood risks in current and future conditions. In this paper, we propose a framework for global flood risk assessment for river floods, which can be applied in current conditions, as well as in future conditions due to climate and socio-economic changes. The framework's goal is to establish flood hazard and impact estimates at a high enough resolution to allow for their combination into a risk estimate, which can be used for strategic global flood risk assessments. The framework estimates hazard at a resolution of ~ 1 km2 using global forcing datasets of the current (or in scenario mode, future) climate, a global hydrological model, a global flood-routing model, and more importantly, an inundation downscaling routine. The second component of the framework combines hazard with flood impact models at the same resolution (e.g. damage, affected GDP, and affected population) to establish indicators for flood risk (e.g. annual expected damage, affected GDP, and affected population). The framework has been applied using the global hydrological model PCR-GLOBWB, which includes an optional global flood routing model DynRout, combined with scenarios from the Integrated Model to Assess the Global Environment (IMAGE). We performed downscaling of the hazard probability distributions to 1 km2 resolution with a new downscaling algorithm, applied on Bangladesh as a first case study application area. We demonstrate the risk assessment approach in Bangladesh based on GDP per capita data, population, and land use maps for 2010 and 2050. Validation of the hazard estimates has been performed using the Dartmouth Flood Observatory database. This was done by comparing a high return period flood with the maximum observed extent, as well as by comparing a time series of a single event with Dartmouth imagery of the event. Validation of modelled damage estimates was performed using observed damage estimates from the EM-DAT database and World Bank sources. We discuss and show sensitivities of the estimated risks with regard to the use of different climate input sets, decisions made in the downscaling algorithm, and different approaches to establish impact models.
Evaluation of numerical weather prediction model precipitation forecasts for short-term streamflow forecasting purpose
Authors: Shrestha D. L. , Robertson D. E. , Wang Q. J. , Pagano T. C. , Hapuarachchi H. A. P.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The quality of precipitation forecasts from four Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models is evaluated over the Ovens catchment in Southeast Australia. Precipitation forecasts are compared with observed precipitation at point and catchment scales and at different temporal resolutions. The four models evaluated are the Australian Community Climate Earth-System Simulator (ACCESS) including ACCESS-G with a 80 km resolution, ACCESS-R 37.5 km, ACCESS-A 12 km, and ACCESS-VT 5 km. The skill of the NWP precipitation forecasts varies considerably between rain gauging stations. In general, high spatial resolution (ACCESS-A and ACCESS-VT) and regional (ACCESS-R) NWP models overestimate precipitation in dry, low elevation areas and underestimate in wet, high elevation areas. The global model (ACCESS-G) consistently underestimates the precipitation at all stations and the bias increases with station elevation. The skill varies with forecast lead time and, in general, it decreases with the increasing lead time. When evaluated at finer spatial and temporal resolution (e.g. 5 km, hourly), the precipitation forecasts appear to have very little skill. There is moderate skill at short lead times when the forecasts are averaged up to daily and/or catchment scale. The precipitation forecasts fail to produce a diurnal cycle shown in observed precipitation. Significant sampling uncertainty in the skill scores suggests that more data are required to get a reliable evaluation of the forecasts. The non-smooth decay of skill with forecast lead time can be attributed to diurnal cycle in the observation and sampling uncertainty. Future work is planned to assess the benefits of using the NWP rainfall forecasts for short-term streamflow forecasting. Our findings here suggest that it is necessary to remove the systematic biases in rainfall forecasts, particularly those from low resolution models, before the rainfall forecasts can be used for streamflow forecasting.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 Gene Mutations Screening In Sporadic Breast Cancer Patients In Kazakhstan.
Authors: Akilzhanova Ainur R. , Nyshanbekkyzy Bagdat , Nurkina Zhannur M. , Shtephanov Ivan I. , Makishev Abay K. , Adylkhanov Tasbolat A. , Rakhypbekov Tolebay K. , Ramanculov Erlan M. , Momynaliev Kuvat T.
Published: May 2013

Background: A large number of distinct mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have been reported worldwide, but little is known regarding the role of these inherited susceptibility genes in breast cancer risk among Kazakhstan women.Aim: To evaluate the role of BRCA1/2 mutations in Kazakhstan women presenting with sporadic breast cancer.Methods: We investigated the distribution and nature of polymorphisms in BRCA1 and BRCA2 entire coding regions in 156 Kazakhstan sporadic breast cancer cases and 112 age-matched controls using automatic direct sequencing.Results: We identified 22 distinct variants, including 16 missense mutations and 6 polymorphisms in BRCA1/2 genes. In BRCA1, 9 missense mutations and 3 synonymous polymorphisms were observed. In BRCA2, 7 missense mutations and 3 polymorphisms were detected. There was a higher prevalence of observed mutations in Caucasian breast cancer cases compared to Asian cases (p<0.05); higher frequencies of sequence variants were observed in Asian controls. No recurrent or founder mutations were observed in BRCA1/2 genes. There were no statistically significant differences in age at diagnosis, tumor histology, size of tumor, and lymph node involvement between women with breast cancer with or without the BRCA sequence alterations.Conclusions:Considering the majority of breast cancer cases are sporadic, the present study will be helpful in the evaluation of the need for the genetic screening of BRCA1/2 mutations and reliable genetic counseling for Kazakhstan sporadic breast cancer patients. Evaluation of common polymorphisms and mutations and breast cancer risk in families with genetic predisposition to breast cancer is ongoing in another current investigation.
Parotid Duct Foreign Body in a Dog Diagnosed with CT
Authors: Goldsworthy Silas J. , Burton Carolyn , Guilherme Sergio
Published: May 2013

A 12 mo old castrated male German shorthaired pointer was referred with a 3 mo history of a recurrent left-sided facial swelling. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) combined with a positive contrast sialogram revealed the presence of a thick-walled dilated region of the left parotid duct and a normal appearance of the parotid gland. The affected parotid duct, complete with grass seed foreign body, was surgically removed under general anesthesia, and the parotid duct was ligated leaving the parotid gland in situ. Twelve mo later, the dog was doing well with no reported complications.
Iatrogenic Tumor Seeding After Ureteral Stenting in a Dog with Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Hosoya Kenji , Takagi Satoshi , Okumura Masahiro
Published: May 2013

A 5 yr old castrated male miniature dachshund presented with clinical signs attributable to carcinoma involving the bladder neck and prostate. On day 84 following diagnosis, the dog developed bilateral ureteral obstruction and ureteral stenting was attempted. The stents were inserted in a normograde fashion via percutaneous puncture of the dilated renal pelvises. Two wk later, the dog developed nodules at both sites of renocentesis. En block resection of the masses was performed, and histologic examination confirmed that the masses were urothelial carcinoma, likely caused by iatrogenic tumor seeding. Ureteral stenting is a useful technique to relieve malignant ureteral obstruction; however, risk of iatrogenic tumor seeding must be considered.
Arthroscopic Assessment for Patellar Injuries and Novel Suture Repair of Patellar Fracture in a CatS
Authors: Cusack Lara , Johnson Matthew
Published: May 2013

A 4 yr old spayed female domestic shorthair was evaluated for an acute, nonweight-bearing, left hind limb lameness. Following 2 wk of conservative management without clinical improvement, the patient was referred for further examination. The stifle was palpably enlarged with suspected periarticular fibrosis. Radiographs showed a lateral longitudinal patellar fracture as well as a medial patellar luxation. Arthroscopic examination of the stifle and repair of the patellar fracture and luxation were performed with an excellent clinical outcome. Nine weeks postoperatively, the owners reported that the cat was using the leg normally inside, and re-examination revealed no pain or crepitus with manipulation of the limb. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported use of arthroscopy as a diagnostic tool and of suture reduction for fracture repair in the management of feline patellar injury.
Fire‐Flow Tests Help Protect Lives and Property
Authors: Hurley Lynn
Published: May 2013

To determine the best way to fight a fire and what equipment to use, firefighters must know how much water is available. Fire‐flow tests provide the answers.
Making Wastewater Systems Smarter
Authors: Boulos Paul F.
Published: May 2013

The US wastewater infrastructure is aging. One solution ‐ using smart water networks to optimize system performance ‐ is helping utility operators become more proactive in sewer collection‐system management and control.
Radiation Induced Decoloration of Reactive Dye in PVA Films for Film Dosimetry
Authors: Shaheen Akhtar  , Taqmeem Hussain  , Aamir Shahzad  , Qamar-ul-Islam  , Muhammad Yousuf Hussain  , Nasim Akhtar
Published: May 2013

The investigation of film dosimeters made from polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films dyed with methyl orange (MO) to enable their use in high dose radiation processing applications was studied. The dosimetric change in these films at pre and post irradiation was studied spectrophotometrically. Radiolytic bleaching was observed in PVA aided films exposed with Cs137 γ-source in dose range of 100-200kGy. The effects of pH, dye concentration and film thickness on the radiation response of the film dosimeters were discussed. The stability of MO-PVA films before and after exposure of radiation was also examined at ambient temperature and was found to be higher for long times at pre and post irradiation stages.
Dantin et l’âge de la métacritique
Authors: Lacroix Michel
Published: May 2013

Avec le foisonnement de recueils d’essais critiques, entre 1928 et 1937, un retournement du commentaire littéraire sur lui-même s’opère, qui entraîne une remise en question de la critique et de ses fondements. L’analyse de cette « métacritique » effectuée dans cet article met en lumière le conflit entre trois logiques distinctes, trois « modèles » de critique et de socialisation : ceux de l’École, des médias et des réseaux. Or, un des acteurs clés de ce tournant critique, du passage vers la contestation des maîtres, fut Louis Dantin. Par sa trajectoire, son rapport aux oeuvres et sa correspondance, ce dernier incarna alors, pour plusieurs de ses pairs, l’idéal d’une amitié critique, exigeante et franche.
Perceptions des frères et des soeurs adultes d’une personne présentant une déficience intellectuelle sur leurs relations mutuelles dans la famille, leurs projets de vie et le soutien souhaité
Authors: Villeneuve Mariane , Goupil Georgette , Gascon Hubert
Published: May 2013

Peu d’études examinent les relations dans la fratrie adulte lorsqu’un membre de la famille présente une déficience intellectuelle (DI). Cette étude a pour objectif d’explorer les perceptions des frères et des soeurs adultes d’une personne présentant une DI sur l’influence de cette personne à l’égard de leurs projets de vie. Elle vise aussi à décrire les perceptions des fratries sur les comportements et les habiletés de la personne présentant une DI, leurs perceptions des relations fraternelles dans la famille et le soutien désiré dans ce contexte. Treize frères et soeurs adultes d’une personne ayant une DI ont répondu, en entrevue, à un questionnaire validé par des experts. L’analyse révèle que les participants s’impliquent dans la vie familiale, en regard de la déficience, en soutenant leurs parents et la personne présentant une DI. Enfin, plusieurs mentionnent que la déficience de leur frère ou de leur soeur influence leurs projets de vie, surtout aux plans de l’orientation professionnelle, du lieu de résidence futur et de l’éducation de leurs enfants. La conclusion présente des recommandations cliniques quant aux mesures de soutien destinées aux familles.
La résolution de problèmes des parents d’enfants ayant une déficience intellectuelle
Authors: Tremblay Natasha , Lachance Lise , Côté Alain , Richer Louis
Published: May 2013

Les études concernant le stress et la santé psychologique des parents d’enfants ayant une déficience intellectuelle ont donné lieu à des résultats contradictoires quant aux différences intersexes. La présente recherche compare les mères et les pères d’enfants ayant une déficience intellectuelle à l’égard de leur stress parental, de leur détresse, de leur bien-être et de leur habileté à résoudre des problèmes. L’échantillon comprend 111 mères et 88 pères ayant complété un questionnaire auto-administré. Les résultats montrent que les différences entre les parents tendent à disparaître lorsque des facteurs contextuels sont considérés. Toutefois, l’orientation négative à l’égard des problèmes se révèle une dimension importante dans l’adaptation des parents face au stress, car elle est reliée à leur santé psychologique. Il pourrait donc s’agir d’une cible d’intervention à privilégier.
Structure of a pore-blocking toxin in complex with a eukaryotic voltage-dependent K+ channel
Authors: Banerjee Anirban , Lee Alice , Campbell Ernest , MacKinnon Roderick
Published: May 2013

Pore-blocking toxins inhibit voltage-dependent K+ channels (Kv channels) by plugging the ion-conduction pathway. We have solved the crystal structure of paddle chimera, a Kv channel in complex with charybdotoxin (CTX), a pore-blocking toxin. The toxin binds to the extracellular pore entryway without producing discernable alteration of the selectivity filter structure and is oriented to project its Lys27 into the pore. The most extracellular K+ binding site (S1) is devoid of K+ electron-density when wild-type CTX is bound, but K+ density is present to some extent in a Lys27Met mutant. In crystals with Cs+ replacing K+, S1 electron-density is present even in the presence of Lys27, a finding compatible with the differential effects of Cs+ vs K+ on CTX affinity for the channel. Together, these results show that CTX binds to a K+ channel in a lock and key manner and interacts directly with conducting ions inside the selectivity filter.
The scorpion toxin and the potassium channel
Authors: Swartz Kenton J
Published: May 2013

The structure of a complex containing a toxin bound to a potassium ion channel has been solved for the first time, revealing how scorpions have designed toxins that can recognize and target the filter that controls the movement of potassium ions through these channels.
Long‐distance induced tremor observed off western Canada
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: May 2013

Using seismic observations made near the Queen Charlotte Margin (QCM), a seismically active region off the western coast of Canada, Aiken et al. add to the growing body of research on how large earthquakes can cause tectonic plates to slip half way around the world. Reaching north from the intersection of the Juan de Fuca ridge, the Cascadia subduction zone, and the Queen Charlotte Fault, QCM underlies the islands of Haida Gwaii and was the site of a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in October 2012. Drawing on seismic readings collected from 1990 to 2012 and using a database of major worldwide earthquakes, the authors identified three earthquakes that induced tremors in QCM: the 2002 magnitude 7.9 Denali earthquake, the 2004 magnitude 9.2 Sumatra quake, and the 2011 magnitude 9.1 Tohoku earthquake. The authors observed the induction not of conventional earthquakes but of deep tectonic tremors, slips of tectonic plates with epicenters located far beneath the surface.
Indirect adaptive fuzzy control for input and output constrained nonlinear systems using a barrier Lyapunov function
Authors: Li Yongming , Li Tieshan , Jing Xingjian
Published: May 2013

In this paper, a novel indirect adaptive fuzzy controller is proposed for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with input and output constrains. To address output and input constraints, a barrier Lyapunov function and an auxiliary design system are employed, respectively. The proposed approach is explored by employing fuzzy logic systems to tackle unknown nonlinear functions and combining the adaptive backstepping technique with adaptive fuzzy control design. Especially, the number of the online learning parameters are reduced to 2n in the closed‐loop system. It is proved that the proposed control approach can guarantee that all the signals in the closed‐loop system are bounded, and the input and output constraints are circumvented simultaneously. A numerical example with comparisons is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terahertz Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances in Coaxial Microcavities
Authors: Withayachumnankul Withawat , Shah Charan Manish , Fumeaux Christophe , Kaltenecker Korbinian , Walther Markus , Fischer Bernd M. , Abbott Derek , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath
Published: May 2013

Coaxial microcavities etched into the surface of a doped silicon substrate are shown to support localized surface plasmon resonances at terahertz frequencies. The underlying mechanism involves coupling freely propagating terahertz waves with surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), which propagate in a coaxial mode along the cavity walls in the axial direction. A Fabry–Pérot resonance is built up when the SPP wavenumber appropriately relates to the cavity depth. Owing to the Ohmic loss of the silicon at terahertz frequencies, the energy of the resonating SPPs is largely dissipated, leading to a modified reflection spectrum. Strong field enhancement is observed inside the cavities at resonance. The theoretical analysis is supported by numerical and experimental results. This study is a promising pathway for development of terahertz devices with applications in the areas of photonic integrated circuits, molecular sensing, and subwavelength imaging.
Two cases of hepatic adenomas in patients with wolf‐hirschhorn syndrome: A new rare complication?
Authors: Prunotto Giulia , Cianci Paola , Cereda Anna , Scatigno Agnese , Fossati Chiara , Maitz Silvia , Biondi Andrea , Selicorni Angelo
Published: May 2013

Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is a rare microdeletion syndrome associated with a characteristic facial appearance, failure to thrive, psychomotor delays, and various major malformations of internal organs; many medical complications have been described (feeding difficulties, epilepsy, hearing problems). Benign or malignant oncologic problems are not a typical feature of the natural history of these patients. We report on two patients with WHS patients in whom hepatic adenoma (HA) were diagnosed during adolescence. The clinical evolution of liver involvement was different between the two. We discuss the possibility of considering HA as a rare medical problem in the follow‐up of WHS patients. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“If it helps …” the use of microarray technology in prenatal testing: Patient and partners reflections
Authors: Hillman Sarah C. , Skelton John , Quinlan‐Jones Elizabeth , Wilson Amie , Kilby Mark D.
Published: May 2013

The objective was to gain insight into the experiences of women and their partners diagnosed with a fetal abnormality on prenatal ultrasound examination and receiving genetic testing including microarray. Twenty‐five semi‐structured interviews were performed with women +/− their partners after receiving the results of prenatal genetic testing. Framework analysis was performed to elicit themes and subthemes. Five main themes were recognized; diagnosis, genetic testing, family and support, reflections of the treatment received and emotions. Our results showed that women recall being told about QFPCR for trisomy 13, 18, and 21 but often no further testing. Women expected the conventional karyotype and microarray result would be normal following a normal QFPCR result. There were frequent misconceptions by couples regarding aspects of counseling/testing. Communication of variants of unknown (clinical) significance (VOUS) presents a particularly difficult challenge. Good clear communication by health care professionals is paramount. When counseling women and their partners for fetal chromosomal testing it should be reinforced that although the most common, trisomy 13, 18, and 21 only account for some of the chromosomal changes resulting in abnormal scan findings. Couples should have literature to take home summarizing scan anomalies and reinforcing information about genetic testing. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuroimaging predictors of brain amyloidosis in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Tosun Duygu , Joshi Sarang , Weiner Michael W.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To identify a neuroimaging signature predictive of brain amyloidosis as a screening tool to identify individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) that are most likely to have high levels of brain amyloidosis or to be amyloid‐free.

Methods

The prediction model cohort included 62 MCI subjects screened with structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 11C‐labeled Pittsburgh compound B positron emission tomography (PET). We identified an anatomical shape variation‐based neuroimaging predictor of brain amyloidosis and defined a structural MRI‐based brain amyloidosis score (sMRI‐BAS). Amyloid beta positivity (Aβ+) predictive power of sMRI‐BAS was validated on an independent cohort of 153 MCI patients with cerebrospinal fluid Aβ1–42 biomarker data but no amyloid PET scans. We compared the Aβ+ predictive power of sMRI‐BAS to those of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype and hippocampal volume, the 2 most relevant candidate biomarkers for the prediction of brain amyloidosis.

Results

Anatomical shape variations predictive of brain amyloidosis in MCI embraced a characteristic spatial pattern known for high vulnerability to Alzheimer disease pathology, including the medial temporal lobe, temporal–parietal association cortices, posterior cingulate, precuneus, hippocampus, amygdala, caudate, and fornix/stria terminals. Aβ+ prediction performance of sMRI‐BAS and ApoE genotype jointly was significantly better than the performance of each predictor separately (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.88 vs AUC = 0.70 and AUC = 0.81, respectively) with >90% sensitivity and specificity at 20% false‐positive rate and false‐negative rate thresholds. Performance of hippocampal volume as an independent predictor of brain amyloidosis in MCI was only marginally better than random chance (AUC = 0.56).

Interpretation

As one of the first attempts to use an imaging technique that does not require amyloid‐specific radioligands for identification of individuals with brain amyloidosis, our findings could lead to development of multidisciplinary/multimodality brain amyloidosis biomarkers that are reliable, minimally invasive, and widely available. Ann Neurol 2013;74:188–198
Are patterns of cortical hyperexcitability altered in catamenial epilepsy?
Authors: Badawy Radwa A. B. , Vogrin Simon J. , Lai Alan , Cook Mark J.
Published: May 2013

Objective

We used transcranial magnetic stimulation to determine menstrual cycle‐related changes in cortical excitability in women with and without catamenial epilepsy and investigated whether these changes differed between ovulatory and anovulatory cohorts.

Methods

Healthy nonepilepsy women and women with generalized and focal epilepsy were investigated during ovulatory (n = 11, 46, and 43, respectively) and anovulatory (n = 9, 42, and 41) cycles. Patients were divided based on seizure pattern into catamenial (C1 = perimenstrual, C2 = periovulatory, C3 = luteal seizure exacerbation), noncatamenial, and seizure free. Cortical excitability was assessed using motor threshold (MT) and paired pulse stimulation at short (2–15 milliseconds) and long (100–300 milliseconds) interstimulus intervals twice, at the (1) late follicular and (2) mid luteal phases of the menstrual cycle.

Results

In controls, cortical excitability was greatest in the follicular study, where intracortical facilitation was increased (p < 0.05). The opposite was seen in women with epilepsy, where intracortical facilitation was greatest and intracortical inhibition was least in the luteal studies (p < 0.05). There were no differences between the ovulatory and anovulatory groups in any of the cohorts. No changes were observed in MT.

Interpretation

Nonhormonal factors are involved in the cyclicity of cortical excitability across the menstrual cycle. Normal menstrual cycle variations in cortical excitability are altered in a similar pattern in ovulatory and anovulatory women with epilepsy regardless of seizure patterns. The underlying neural changes associated with epilepsy may alter responses to sex hormones. This may be an important underlying mechanism for catamenial seizure clustering. Ann Neurol 2013;74:743–757