bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Applicability of Traditional Protection Methods to Lines Emanating from VSC-HVDC Interconnectors and a Novel Protection Principle
Authors: Xue Shimin , Yang Jingyue , Chen Yanxia , Wang Cunping , Shi Zhe , Cui Miao , Li Botong
Published: May 2016

Voltage source converter (VSC)-based high voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) interconnectors can realize accurate and fast control of power transmission among AC networks, and provide emergency power support for AC networks. VSC-HVDC interconnectors bring exclusive fault characteristics to AC networks, thus influencing the performance of traditional protections. Since fault characteristics are related to the control schemes of interconnectors, a fault ride-through (FRT) strategy which is applicable to the interconnector operating characteristic of working in four quadrants and capable of eliminating negative-sequence currents under unbalanced fault conditions is proposed first. Then, the additional terms of measured impedances of distance relays caused by fault resistances are derived using a symmetrical component method. Theoretical analysis shows the output currents of interconnectors are controllable after faults, which may cause malfunctions in distance protections installed on lines emanating from interconnectors under the effect of fault resistances. Pilot protection is also inapplicable to lines emanating from interconnectors. Furthermore, a novel pilot protection principle based on the ratio between phase currents and the ratio between negative-sequence currents flowing through both sides is proposed for lines emanating from the interconnectors whose control scheme aims at eliminating negative-sequence currents. The validity of theoretical analysis and the protection principle is verified by PSCAD/EMTDC simulations.
Electrical Market Management Considering Power System Constraints in Smart Distribution Grids
Authors: Astero Poria , Choi Bong
Published: May 2016

Rising demand, climate change, growing fuel costs, outdated power system infrastructures, and new power generation technologies have made renewable distribution generators very attractive in recent years. Because of the increasing penetration level of renewable energy sources in addition to the growth of new electrical demand sectors, such as electrical vehicles, the power system may face serious problems and challenges in the near future. A revolutionary new power grid system, called smart grid, has been developed as a solution to these problems. The smart grid, equipped with modern communication and computation infrastructures, can coordinate different parts of the power system to enhance energy efficiency, reliability, and quality, while decreasing the energy cost. Since conventional distribution networks lack smart infrastructures, much research has been recently done in the distribution part of the smart grid, called smart distribution grid (SDG). This paper surveys contemporary literature in SDG from the perspective of the electricity market in addition to power system considerations. For this purpose, this paper reviews current demand side management methods, supply side management methods, and electrical vehicle charging and discharging techniques in SDG and also discusses their drawbacks. We also present future research directions to tackle new and existing challenges in the SDG.
Application of a Diffuser Structure to Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines
Authors: Watanabe Koichi , Takahashi Shuhei , Ohya Yuji
Published: May 2016

The effects of using a wind acceleration device (wind lens) with vertical-axis wind turbines in wind tunnel experiments were examined. A wind lens consists of a diffuser and flanges, and this study investigated the optimum parameters of their configuration with regard to the power augmentation of the turbines. The wind lens with a flat-panel-type diffuser demonstrated power augmentation by a factor of 2.0 compared with an open wind turbine. An increase from 5° to 20° in the semi-open angle of the diffuser made it possible to generate a 30% high power output over a wide range of tip speed ratios. On that basis, an optimum semi-open angle was determined. For the flat-panel-type diffuser, a recommended diffuser length is the half of the throat width, and its semi-open angle is 20°.The inlet enhanced power augmentation over a wide range of tip speed ratios. The optimum location for the wind lens in the streamwise direction was aligned with the center of the vertical-axis wind turbines. The diffuser with a curved surface was more effective regarding power augmentation than flat-panel-type diffusers. The wind lens with a curved surface diffuser demonstrated power augmentation by a factor of about 2.1 compared with an open wind turbine. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that a two-bladed wind turbine with symmetric NACA0024-type airfoils was most suitable for the incorporation of a wind lens to generate higher power output.
Weight Gain Prevention among Midlife Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial to Address Needs Related to the Physical and Social Environment
Authors: Perry Courtney , Degeneffe Dennis , Davey Cynthia , Kollannoor-Samuel Grace , Reicks Marla
Published: May 2016

Women tend to gain weight at midlife (40–60 years) increasing risk of obesity-related chronic diseases. Within specific eating occasions, needs related to the physical and social environment may result in less healthy eating behavior, which can lead to weight gain over time. The purpose of this study was to determine if a dietitian-delivered nutrition counseling intervention tailored to eating occasion needs could improve diet and prevent weight gain among midlife women over two years. A randomized controlled trial was conducted with healthy midlife women (n = 354) in one U.S. metropolitan area. The intervention group (n = 185) received ten hours of individual nutrition counseling from dietitians over six months, while women in a control group (n = 169) received no counseling. Measured height, weight and waist circumference, and dietary intakes were collected at baseline and every six months over two years. Mixed linear models were used to test for intervention effect on change in outcome variables over time. Dietary intakes of fruit, reduced/low-fat dairy foods and refined grains were significantly improved over time in the intervention compared to control group. However, the intervention had no effect on weight over time (p = 0.48). Nutrition counseling tailored to address eating occasion needs improved self-reported diet but did not significantly affect weight change.
Lessons from the Bone Chapter of the Malaysian Aging Men Study
Authors: Chin Kok-Yong , Wan Ngah Wan , Ima-Nirwana Soelaiman
Published: May 2016

Male osteoporosis in Malaysia is a largely neglected problem. Therefore, a bone health study in men using quantitative ultrasonometry was launched as part of the Malaysian Aging Men Study in 2009–2012. This review aimed to summarize the findings of the aforementioned bone health study. The study examined the bone health of Chinese and Malaysian men aged 20 years and above living in Kuala Lumpur using a quantitative ultrasound device. Participants answered a questionnaire on their demographic details and physical activity status. Body anthropometry of the participants was measured and their blood collected for biochemical analysis. Results showed that a significant proportion of the Malaysian Chinese and Malay men had suboptimal bone health indicated by calcaneal speed of sound and vitamin D status. Age-related decline of the calcaneal speed of sound in these men was gradual and biphasic without ethnic difference. Body anthropometry such as height, weight, body mass index, and body fat percentage contributed to the variation of the calcaneal speed of sound in Malaysian men. Age-related changes in testosterone, insulin-like growth factor 1, and thyroid stimulating hormone also influenced the calcaneal speed of sound in these men. This study serves as a reminder that male osteoporosis in Malaysia should be an issue of concern. It is also a basis for a more comprehensive study on bone health in men in the future.
Relevance of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Cell Signaling in Liver Cold Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Folch-Puy Emma , Panisello Arnau , Oliva Joan , Lopez Alexandre , Castro Benítez Carlos , Adam René , Roselló-Catafau Joan
Published: May 2016

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is involved in calcium homeostasis, protein folding and lipid biosynthesis. Perturbations in its normal functions lead to a condition called endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). This can be triggered by many physiopathological conditions such as alcoholic steatohepatitis, insulin resistance or ischemia-reperfusion injury. The cell reacts to ERS by initiating a defensive process known as the unfolded protein response (UPR), which comprises cellular mechanisms for adaptation and the safeguarding of cell survival or, in cases of excessively severe stress, for the initiation of the cell death program. Recent experimental data suggest the involvement of ERS in ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) of the liver graft, which has been considered as one of major problems influencing outcome after liver transplantation. The purpose of this review is to summarize updated data on the molecular mechanisms of ERS/UPR and the consequences of this pathology, focusing specifically on solid organ preservation and liver transplantation models. We will also discuss the potential role of ERS, beyond the simple adaptive response and the regulation of cell death, in the modification of cell functional properties and phenotypic changes.
Influence of Composition on the Environmental Impact of a Cast Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Gómez Patricia , Elduque Daniel , Sarasa Judith , Pina Carmelo , Javierre Carlos
Published: May 2016

The influence of alloy composition on the environmental impact of the production of six aluminum casting alloys (Al Si12Cu1(Fe), Al Si5Mg, Al Si9Cu3Zn3Fe, Al Si10Mg(Fe), Al Si9Cu3(Fe)(Zn) and Al Si9) has been analyzed. In order to perform a more precise environmental impact calculation, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with ReCiPe Endpoint methodology has been used, with the EcoInvent v3 AlMg3 aluminum alloy dataset as a reference. This dataset has been updated with the material composition ranges of the mentioned alloys. The balanced, maximum and minimum environmental impact values have been obtained. In general, the overall impact of the studied aluminum alloys varies from 5.98 × 10−1 pts to 1.09 pts per kg, depending on the alloy composition. In the analysis of maximum and minimum environmental impact, the alloy that has the highest uncertainty is AlSi9Cu3(Fe)(Zn), with a range of ±9%. The elements that contribute the most to increase its impact are Copper and Tin. The environmental impact of a specific case, an LED luminaire housing made out of an Al Si12Cu1(Fe) cast alloy, has been studied, showing the importance of considering the composition. Significant differences with the standard datasets that are currently available in EcoInvent v3 have been found.
Exploitable Lipids and Fatty Acids in the Invasive Oyster Crassostrea gigas on the French Atlantic Coast
Authors: Dagorn Flore , Couzinet-Mossion Aurélie , Kendel Melha , Beninger Peter , Rabesaotra Vony , Barnathan Gilles , Wielgosz-Collin Gaëtane
Published: May 2016

Economic exploitation is one means to offset the cost of controlling invasive species, such as the introduced Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas Thunberg) on the French Atlantic coast. Total lipid and phospholipid (PL) fatty acids (FAs) and sterols were examined in an invasive population of C. gigas in Bourgneuf Bay, France, over four successive seasons, with a view to identify possible sources of exploitable substances. The total lipid level (% dry weight) varied from 7.1% (winter) to 8.6% (spring). Of this, PLs accounted for 28.1% (spring) to 50.4% (winter). Phosphatidylcholine was the dominant PL throughout the year (up to 74% of total PLs in winter). Plasmalogens were identified throughout the year as a series of eleven dimethylacetals (DMAs) with chain lengths between C16 and C20 (up to 14.5% of PL FAs + DMAs in winter). Thirty-seven FAs were identified in the PL FAs. Eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5n-3 EPA/7.53% to 14.5%) and docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3 DHA/5.51% to 9.5%) were the dominant polyunsaturated FAs in all seasons. Two non-methylene-interrupted dienoic (NMID) FAs were identified in all seasons: 7,13-docosadienoic and 7,15-docosadienoic acids, the latter being present at relatively high levels (up to 9.6% in winter). Twenty free sterols were identified, including cholesterol at 29.9% of the sterol mixture and about 33% of phytosterols. C. gigas tissues thus contained exploitable lipids for health benefits or as a potential source of high-quality commercial lecithin.
A Study of Digging Productivity of an Electric Rope Shovel for Different Operators
Authors: Babaei Khorzoughi Mohammad , Hall Robert
Published: May 2016

A performance monitoring study of an electric rope shovel operating in an open pit coal mine was conducted. As the mining industry moves toward higher productivity, profitability and predictability, the need for more reliable, productive and efficient mining shovels increases. Consequently, it is critical to study the productivity of these machines and to understand the effect of different operational parameters on that. In this paper a clustering analysis is performed to classify shovel digging effort and behaviour based on digging energy, dig time and payload per pass. Then the influence of the operator on the digging efficiency and productivity of the machine is analyzed with a focus on operator technique during digging. A statistical analysis is conducted on different cycle time components (dig time, swing time, return time) for different operators. In addition to time components, swing and return angles as well as loading rate and mucking rate are observed and analyzed. The results of this study help to understand the effect of different operators on the digging productivity of the shovel and then to set the best operator practice.
Current Status of Bioinks for Micro-Extrusion-Based 3D Bioprinting
Authors: Panwar Amit , Tan Lay
Published: May 2016

Recent developments in 3D printing technologies and design have been nothing short of spectacular. Parallel to this, development of bioinks has also emerged as an active research area with almost unlimited possibilities. Many bioinks have been developed for various cells types, but bioinks currently used for 3D printing still have challenges and limitations. Bioink development is significant due to two major objectives. The first objective is to provide growth- and function-supportive bioinks to the cells for their proper organization and eventual function and the second objective is to minimize the effect of printing on cell viability, without compromising the resolution shape and stability of the construct. Here, we will address the current status and challenges of bioinks for 3D printing of tissue constructs for in vitro and in vivo applications.
HDAC Inhibition in Vascular Endothelial Cells Regulates the Expression of ncRNAs
Authors: Rafehi Haloom , El-Osta Assam
Published: May 2016

While clinical and pre-clinical trials indicate efficacy of histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors in disease mediated by dynamic lysine modification, the impact on the expression of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigate high throughput RNA sequencing data derived from primary human endothelial cells stimulated with HDAC inhibitors suberanilohydroxamic acid (SAHA) and Trichostatin A (TSA). We observe robust regulation of ncRNA expression. Integration of gene expression data with histone 3 lysine 9 and 14 acetylation (H3K9/14ac) and histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) datasets identified complex and class-specific expression of ncRNAs. We show that EP300 target genes are subject to histone deacetylation at their promoter following HDAC inhibition. This deacetylation drives suppression of protein-coding genes. However, long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) regulated by EP300 are activated following HDAC inhibition, despite histone deacetylation. This increased expression was driven by increased H3K4me3 at the gene promoter. For example, elevated promoter H3K4me3 increased lincRNA MALAT1 expression despite broad EP300-associated histone deacetylation. In conclusion, we show that HDAC inhibitors regulate the expression of ncRNA by complex and class-specific epigenetic mechanisms.
A Vision for Open Cyber-Scholarly Infrastructures
Authors: Thanos Costantino
Published: May 2016

The characteristics of modern science, i.e., data-intensive, multidisciplinary, open, and heavily dependent on Internet technologies, entail the creation of a linked scholarly record that is online and open. Instrumental in making this vision happen is the development of the next generation of Open Cyber-Scholarly Infrastructures (OCIs), i.e., enablers of an open, evolvable, and extensible scholarly ecosystem. The paper delineates the evolving scenario of the modern scholarly record and describes the functionality of future OCIs as well as the radical changes in scholarly practices including new reading, learning, and information-seeking practices enabled by OCIs.
A Concept Analysis of Spiritual Care Based on Islamic Sources
Authors: Marzband Rahmatollah , Hosseini Seyed , Hamzehgardeshi Zeinab
Published: May 2016

The cultural and religious resources of every community influence the definition of spiritual care. This paper discusses a concept analysis of spiritual care in an Islamic context. The Quran, narrations (Shie’h) and commentarial books were searched, for information data. The data was used to provide a comprehensive definition of the concept of spiritual care from Islamic literature. We identified the attributes, antecedents and consequences of spiritual care according to Roger’s concept analysis approach. The review of the Islamic text showed that spiritual care is a series of spiritual skills or competencies that help patients to achieve excellent life. It is grouped into categories and has numerous positive effects on patients and caregivers. This study will be useful to Muslim clinicians and nurse educators as they strive to understand and incorporate spiritual care within their practice for Muslim patients.
Synchronous OEIC Integrating Receiver for Optically Reconfigurable Gate Arrays
Authors: Sánchez-Azqueta Carlos , Goll Bernhard , Celma Santiago , Zimmermann Horst
Published: May 2016

A monolithically integrated optoelectronic receiver with a low-capacitance on-chip pin photodiode is presented. The receiver is fabricated in a 0.35 μm opto-CMOS process fed at 3.3 V and due to the highly effective integrated pin photodiode it operates at μW. A regenerative latch acting as a sense amplifier leads in addition to a low electrical power consumption. At 400 Mbit/s, sensitivities of −26.0 dBm and −25.5 dBm are achieved, respectively, for λ = 635 nm and λ = 675 nm (BER = 10−9 ) with an energy efficiency of 2 pJ/bit.
Vertaling, wezen en teleurstelling
Authors: Bloemen Henri , Segers Winibert
Published: May 2016

This is a story in three movements. In the first movement we take our distances from the traditional discourse on translation, a discourse that continually avoids the real subject, translation. The second movement is a movement towards the text, towards the original Dans un mois dans un an and the translation Over een maand over een jaar ; despite the temptations of the outside, we try to stay within the topic. The second movement ends in a disappointment. In the third and last movement we wonder how we can deal with that disappointment.
Prolegomena tot een nieuwe conceptie van vertaalbaarheid
Authors: Van Egdom Gys-Walt
Published: May 2016

De vraag naar de mogelijkheid van vertaling houdt de gemoederen al honderden jaren bezig. In dit artikel wordt er getoond hoe bovengenoemde vraag zich verhoudt tot de vraag naar het wezen van de vertaling zelf. Een uitgebreide, doch reductionistische weergave van de twee meest fundamentele vertaaltheoretische discours toont duidelijk aan dat ons theoretisch inzicht in het vertalen sterk is veranderd in de loop van de eeuwen : des te holistischer onze kijk op taal wordt, des te meer worden we gedwongen om de atomische dimensies in ogenschouw te nemen en te problematiseren. Aan de hand van een case study, waarbij het ‘ universeel vertaalbare’

Altazor (Vicente Huidobro) als onderzoeksobject wordt gebruikt, zal er hier worden gepoogd om de vraag naar het wezen en de mogelijkheid van het vertalen op een andere manier te stellen. Door de vertaling(en) van Altazor te betrekken wordt het spanningsveld tussen theorie en praktijk duidelijk getoond.
Tussen de torens van Babel en Eiffel: Vicente Huidobro en het droombeeld van universele vertaalbaarheid
Authors: Devos Piet
Published: May 2016

The Chilean avant-garde poet Vicente Huidobro (1893-1948) considered his poetic images to be universally translatable. This paper delves into the cultural-historical origins of this claim to universal translatability, and pays attention to Huidobro’s attempt to bring it into practice. The first section concerns Huidobro’s poetics, the so-called ‘ Creacionismo’, which describes the poet as a seer who, by means of his images, uncovers new facts and unsuspected aspects of reality. According to Huidobro, such images would have a similar effect in every language, as he assumed human thought to be visual innature. In the second part of the article, Huidobro’s assumption of the visual character of thought is being related to the influence of, particularly, Henri Bergson who called thought cinematographic and, more in general, of the rise of film during that period. It turns out in the third section that it was however hard to realize this theory on universally translatable images. When in 1916 Huidobro emigrated to Paris and had to translate his poems into French, words appeared to lack universal transparency and to be charged with context-bound connotations. This translation experience urged Huidobro to critically reflect upon the visual and universal implications of his poetics.
FIRST LIGHT: MeV ASTROPHYSICS FROM THE MOON
Authors: Miller Richard S. , Lawrence David J.
Published: May 2016

We report evidence of the first astrophysical source detected from the Moon at MeV energies. Our detection of Cygnus X-1 is a validation of a new investigative paradigm in which the lunar environment is intrinsic to the detection approach: the Lunar Occultation Technique (LOT). NASA’s Lunar Prospector mission served as a proxy for a dedicated LOT-based mission. The characteristic signature of temporal modulation, generated by repeated lunar occultations and encoded within acquired gamma-ray data (0.5–9 MeV), is consistent with an unambiguous detection of Cygnus X-1 at 5.4σ significance. Source localization and long-term monitoring capabilities of the LOT are also demonstrated. This “first light” detection verifies the basic tenets of the LOT methodology, reinforces its feasibility as an alternative astronomical detection paradigm for nuclear astrophysics investigations, and is an illustration of the fundamental benefits of the Moon as a platform for science.
The Role of Linguistic Modification in Nursing Education
Authors: Moore Brenda S. , Clark Michele C.
Published: May 2016

Background:

English-as-a-second-language (ESL) nursing students fail to graduate from programs at alarming rates. For many of these students, academic failure results from poor performance on multiple choice examinations, which frequently contain linguistic errors. A remedy for these errors is to linguistically modify examination questions. This study assessed the effects of linguistic modification on examination scores.

Method:

Scores of ESL and non-ESL nursing students were compared on an experimental multiple choice examination and a control examination.

Results:

After exclusion, 67 ESL and 252 non-ESL students completed the experimental examination; 68 ESL and 257 non-ESL students completed the control examination.

Conclusion:

Both ESL and non-ESL students scored higher on the experimental examination than on the control examination. For ESL students, the increase in observed means between the experimental and control examination was 0.6%; for non-ESL students, the increase was 0.48%. [
J Nurs Educ.
2016;55(6):309–315.]
Myectomy of the Extraocular Muscles Without Reattachment as a Surgical Treatment for Horizontal Nystagmus
Authors: Lingua Robert W. , Liu Catherine Y. , Gerling Amanda , Zhang Zina , Nalbandian Angèle
Published: May 2016

Purpose:

To report the comparative clinical findings for two nystagmus procedures in two consecutive case series: the Sinskey anterior extirpation procedure (SAEP) and a modification, myectomy without reattachment (MWR).

Methods:

Twenty consecutive patients underwent the SAEP and 19 underwent MWR. The SAEP is a snare-assisted unmeasured deep myectomy, whereas MWR is a measured myectomy at posterior Tenon's fascia. All patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic and orthoptic examination with infrared videonystagmography. Binocular best corrected visual acuity, nystagmus amplitude, alignment, and versions outcomes were measured.

Results:

The highest percentage of patients experiencing two or more lines of improvement in distance and near acuity was in the SAEP group, who were younger than 10 years and had no ocular comorbidity (100%). Distance and near acuity improved at least one line in 71% and 86% of patients in the SAEP group and 72% and 61% in the MWR group, respectively. In both groups, patients younger than 10 years had the best acuity gains. Average nystagmus amplitude was reduced 76.3% (SAEP) and 68% (MWR). Horizontal versions were more compromised in the SAEP group and one patient experienced intraoperative orbital bleeding. Patients requiring reoperation for strabismus numbered 5 of 20 (20%) in the SAEP and 3 of 19 (16%) in the MWR groups.

Conclusions:

Similar to SAEP, the MWR procedure reduces nystagmus amplitudes and improves visual acuity but with less limitation of versions, risk of intraoperative bleeding, and risk of postoperative strabismus. Data suggest that early surgery (for patients younger than 10 years) can have a greater beneficial effect on postoperative visual acuity.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2016;53(3):156–166.]
Balanced Energy Consumption Approach Based on Ant Colony in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Alam Sahabul , De Debashis
Published: May 2016

Now a days Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) have grown rapidly due to advancement of information technology. Sensor nodes are deployed over the field for collecting useful information. Sensor nodes have limited battery power and bandwidth. As a result it is critical for planning energy efficient protocols in WSNs. It is necessary to transfer and gather information in optimized way to reduce the energy dissipation. Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) is already proved to be better technique to optimize the network routing protocols in WSNs. Ant based routing can have significant role to extend the network life time and balance energy consumption in WSNs. In this chapter wireless sensor network architecture, routing factors of wireless sensor networks, computational intelligence technique, ant colony algorithm and ant colony based balanced energy consumption approaches in wireless sensor network have been discussed.
Optimized Energy Aware VM Provisioning in Green Cloud Based on Cuckoo Search with Levy Flight
Authors: Mondal Md. Ashifuddin , Deb Tamal
Published: May 2016

This chapter proposed a nature inspired energy aware VM provisioning technique in cloud computing to minimize the power consumption by the resources while providing negotiable Quality of Services (QoS). Data centers hosting different cloud application consume huge amount electrical energy which leads to a higher operational cost for service provider and makes an adverse effect in environment in terms of co2 emission. Green cloud computing can provide the solutions by optimum use of electrical energy in data center without degrading the Quality of Service (QoS). The proposed technique works in three phases: firstly consumer's service request validation is done with respect to Service Level Agreement. Then move to VM placement phase. Lastly VM placement optimization is done in order to minimize the power consumption by physical host. This chapter use Cuckoo search for optimization technique. The performance of proposed approach is validates by conducting series of evaluation using CloudSim framework
Zero new HIV infections: Mission impossible with current perceptions of young adults in Vhembe District regarding condom use
Authors: Mavhandu-Mudzusi Azwihangwisi H.
Published: May 2016

Background: Millennium Development Goal (MDG) number 6, target 6A focuses on halting and reversing the spread of HIV by 2015. South Africa is amongst the 189 countries that are involved in trying to meet the MDGs. In order to try and achieve this goal, South Africa, through its HIV and AIDS, STI and TB strategic plans has adopted the United Nations vision of ‘Zeros’, which include zero new HIV infections by the year 2015. One of the key interventions for achieving this is improvement in access to condoms.Aim: This article reports on perceptions of Vhembe District young adults regarding condom use.Setting: This study was conducted in one of the rural clinics in Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province: South Africa.Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional design approach was followed. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 372 young adults who came for healthcare services at one of the clinics in Vhembe District.Results: The findings indicated that there is a relationship between positive perceptions toward condom use and actual condom use. People who have positive attitudes toward condoms are also more likely to use them. In contrast, people with a negative attitude towards condoms are less likely to use them during sexual intercourse. Negative attitudes of health care providers were found to be a barrier that prevents sexually active individuals to access condoms in primary health care facilities.Conclusion: With current peceptions towards condom use, Zero new HIV infection will never be achieved. The researcher recommends development of strategies for promoting access and correct use of condoms.Keywords: Condom use, perception, young adults
Best practice guidelines for the use of the assessment centre method in South Africa (5th edition)
Authors: Meiring Deon , Buckett Anne
Published: May 2016

Orientation: Assessment Centres (ACs) have a long and successful track record in South Africa when used for selection and development purposes. The popularity of the approach is mainly attributable to the ACs’ numerous strengths, which include the perceived fairness, practical utility and strong associations with on-the-job performance. To maintain the integrity of the AC, it is important for practitioners and decision makers to apply the method in a consistent and standardised manner.Research purpose: The purpose of the report is to provide practitioners and decision makers with practical guidelines and concrete procedures when using ACs as part of the organisation’s human resource management strategy. Motivation for the study: The past decade has seen significant advances in the science and practice of ACs. Now in its fifth edition, the revised Guidelines seek to provide important information to practitioners and decision makers on a number of factors when used in conjunction with the AC method, namely, technology, validation, legislation, ethics and culture.Main findings: The Guidelines provide specific suggestions and recommendations for using technology as part of the manner of delivery. Issues of culture, diversity and representation are also discussed. New features of the Guidelines include more concrete guidance on how to conduct a validation study as well as unpacking several ethical dilemmas that practitioners may encounter. Of critical importance is a position statement on the use of ACs in relation to new legislation (Employment Equity Amendment Act, Section 8, clause d) pertaining to psychometric testing.Practical/managerial implications: The Guidelines serve as a benchmark of best practice for practitioners and decision makers who intend on, or are currently, using ACs in their organisations.Contribution/value-add: In the absence of formal standards governing the use of ACs in South Africa, the Guidelines provide an important step towards establishing standardisation in the use of the AC method. The Guidelines provide (1) guidance to industrial and organisational psychologists, organisational consultants, human resource management specialists, generalists and the Department of Labour, and others designing and conducting ACs; (2) information to managers deciding whether to introduce AC methods; (3) instructions to assessors taking part in the AC; (4) guidance on the use of technology and navigating diverse cultural contexts; and (5) a reference for professionals on best practice considerations in the use of the AC method.
The role of intraoperative scrape cytology in vertebroplasty
Authors: Inuganti Renuka Venkata , Mettu Rami Reddy , Surath Harsha Vardhan , Surath Amarnath
Published: May 2016

Aims:

To assess the adequacy of intraoperative scrape cytology during percutaneous vertebroplasty by correlating results with corresponding histopathology.

Settings and Design:

Vertebroplasty is a procedure increasingly used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures. The history and presentation of osteoporotic fractures are straightforward, but difficulty arises in differentiating infective from neoplastic lesions, especially in cases where the magnetic resonance imaging is equivocal. The procedure involves injection of polymethyl methacrylate (bone cement) into the pathological vertebral body and gives dramatic pain relief. It is indicated in osteoporotic and neoplastic lesions but contraindicated in infections. Hence, intraoperative evaluation of a specimen is essential to aid in the decision of performing vertebroplasty.

Subjects and Methods:

A total of 128 patients with vertebral lesions underwent core biopsy and scrape cytology from June 2006 to June 2015. Based on the findings of cytological examination, malignant lesions were subjected to vertebroplasty. In lesions with infective etiology, vertebroplasty was abandoned and antibiotic or antituberculous therapy started.

Results:

The overall diagnostic accuracy of scrape cytology was excellent with 97.58% cases correlating with the final histopathological diagnosis. Specificity was 100%, positive predictive value was 100% and negative predictive value was 33.33%.

Conclusion:

Scrape cytology is a simple, rapid, accurate cytodiagnostic technique and should be routinely utilized in vertebral lesions for intraoperative consultation and decision making during vertebroplasty.
Mobile Health (mHealth) Services and Online Health Educators
Authors: Anshari Muhammad , Almunawar Mohammad Nabil
Published: May 2016

Mobile technology enables health-care organizations to extend health-care services by providing a suitable environment to achieve mobile health (mHealth) goals, making some health-care services accessible anywhere and anytime. Introducing mHealth could change the business processes in delivering services to patients. mHealth could empower patients as it becomes necessary for them to become involved in the health-care processes related to them. This includes the ability for patients to manage their personal information and interact with health-care staff as well as among patients themselves. The study proposes a new position to supervise mHealth services: the online health educator (OHE). The OHE should be occupied by special health-care staffs who are trained in managing online services. A survey was conducted in Brunei and Indonesia to discover the roles of OHE in managing mHealth services, followed by a focus group discussion with participants who interacted with OHE in a real online health scenario. Data analysis showed that OHE could improve patients’ confidence and satisfaction in health-care services.
Differences among Branded Hyaluronic Acids in Italy, Part 1: Data from In Vitro and Animal Studies and Instructions for Use
Authors: Migliore A. , Bizzi E. , De Lucia O. , Sedie A. Delle , Bentivegna M. , Mahmoud Asmaa , Foti C.
Published: May 2016

Background

The use of hyaluronic acid (HA) for intra-articular (IA) injection is widespread around the world for patients affected by osteoarthritis.

AIM

The aim of this study is to identify scientific evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies supporting the use of IA HAs marketed in Italy We also evaluated the accuracy of indications and contraindications reported in the leaflets of such HAs compared with the available scientific evidence.

Materials and Methods

An extensive literature search was performed to identify all in vitro and in vivo model studies reporting on the effects of various HAs marketed in Italy for IA use. Data reported in the leaflets of different HA-based products for IA use were extracted and analyzed alongside evidence from in vitro and in vivo model studies.

Results

Nine in vitro studies and 11 studies on animal models were examined. Comparing results with what is reported in the leaflets of HAs marketed in Italy, it was observed that many branded formulations are introduced in the market without any reporting of basic scientific evidence. Only 12.82% and 17.95% of branded products had been shown to be effective with scientific evidence from in vitro and in vivo studies, respectively. The rationale of use of these products is based on their nature, as if a class effect existed such that all HAs would yield similar effects.

Conclusions

Data on HAs deriving from in vitro and in vivo studies are scarce and relate to only a small percentage of products marketed in Italy. Many indications and contraindications are arbitrarily reported in Italian HA leaflets without the support of scientific evidence. Larger and brand-specific studies are necessary and should be reported in the leaflets to guide clinicians in making an appropriate choice regarding HA-based IA therapy.
La política cultural en Italia y las innovaciones del siglo XXI
Authors: Niglio Olimpia
Published: May 2016

Este artículo analiza el desarrollo de la política cultural en Italia desde las primeras experiencias del siglo XVI hasta principios del siglo XXI con la reforma institucional por el Ministro Darío Franceschini. En el país pre-unitario fueron muy importantes las contribuciones de los diferentes gobernadores locales que han impuesto políticas de conservación para evitar la dispersión de las obras de arte. Después de la unidad de Italia (1861) las leyes de tutela del patrimonio nacional han contribuido a encaminar importantes iniciativas que se han desarrollado concretamente sólo al final del siglo XX. Son grandes las novedades institucionales y normativas activadas en el siglo XXI, y en esta contribución proponemos algunoss importantes hechos de reflexión y de profundización.
Editorial núm. 16
Authors: Villalonga Dobón Cristina
Published: May 2016

Sin resumen
Atypical Sensory Modulation and Psychological Distress in the General Population
Authors: Bar-Shalita Tami , Cermak Sharon A.
Published: May 2016

OBJECTIVE. Atypical sensory modulation (ASM) is characterized by over- or underresponsiveness to sensory stimuli in one or more sensory systems. Faulty sensory information processing could result in anxiety. Because the relation between ASM and psychological distress has not been examined, we explored psychological distress and ASM in the general population.

METHOD. A community-based sample of 204 adults (105 men; mean age = 27.4 yr, standard deviation = 3.71) completed the Sensory Responsiveness Questionnaire—Intensity Scale (SRQ–IS; Bar-Shalita, Seltzer, Vatine, Yochman, & Parush, 2009); the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI; Derogatis & Coons, 1993); and the Short Form—36 Health Survey, Version 2 (SF–36; Ware, Kosinski, & Gandek, 2005).

RESULTS. The ASM group displayed considerably more distress symptoms than the comparison group. Multivariate linear regression showed SRQ–IS and SF–36 scores as significant predictors of BSI score (r = .64).

CONCLUSION. ASM may be a risk factor for developing other mental health concerns.
Consistency and quality assessment of the Metop-A/IASI and Metop-B/IASI operational trace gas products (O3, CO, N2O, CH4, and CO2) in the subtropical North Atlantic
Authors: García Omaira Elena , Sepúlveda Eliezer , Schneider Matthias , Hase Frank , August Thomas , Blumenstock Thomas , Kühl Sven , Munro Rosemary , Gómez-Peláez Ángel Jesús , Hultberg Tim , Redondas Alberto , Barthlott Sabine , Wiegele Andreas , González Yenny , Sanromá Esther
Published: May 2016

Abstract. This paper presents the tools and methodology for performing a routine comprehensive monitoring of consistency and quality of IASI (Infrared Atmospheric Sounding Interferometer) trace gas Level 2 (L2) products (O3, CO, N2O, CH4, and CO2) generated at EUMETSAT (European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites) using ground-based observations at the Izaña Atmospheric Observatory (IZO, Tenerife). As a demonstration the period 2010–2014 was analysed, covering the version 5 of the IASI L2 processor. Firstly, we assess the consistency between the total column (TC) observations from the IASI sensors on board the EUMETSAT Metop-A and Metop-B meteorological satellites (IASI-A and IASI-B respectively) in the subtropical North Atlantic region during the first 2 years of IASI-B operations (2012–2014). By analysing different timescales, we probe the daily and annual consistency of the variability observed by IASI-A and IASI-B and thereby assess the suitability of IASI-B for continuation of the IASI-A time series. The continuous intercomparison of both IASI sensors also offers important diagnostics for identifying inconsistencies between the data records and for documenting their temporal stability. Once the consistency of IASI sensors is documented we estimate the overall accuracy of all the IASI trace gas TC products by comparing to coincident ground-based Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTS) measurements performed at IZO from 2010 to 2014. The IASI L2 products reproduce the ground-based FTS observations well at the longest temporal scales, i.e. annual cycles and long-term trends for all the trace gases considered (Pearson correlation coefficient, R, larger than 0.95 and 0.75 for long-term trends and annual cycles respectively) with the exception of CO2. For CO2 acceptable agreement is only achieved for long-term trends (R ∼ 0.70). The differences observed between IASI and FTS observations can be in part attributed to the different vertical sensitivities of the two remote sensing instruments and also to the degree of maturity of the IASI products: O3 and CO are pre-operational, while N2O, CH4, and CO2 are, for the period covered by this study, aspirational products only and are not considered mature. Regarding shorter timescales (single or daily measurements), only the O3 product seems to show good sensitivity to actual atmospheric variations (R ∼ 0.80), while the CO product is only moderately sensitive (R ∼ 0.50). For the remainder of the trace gases, further improvements would be required to capture the day-to-day real atmospheric variability.
Evaluation of the Plant–Craig stochastic convection scheme (v2.0) in the ensemble forecasting system MOGREPS-R (24 km) based on the Unified Model (v7.3)
Authors: Keane Richard J. , Plant Robert S. , Tennant Warren J.
Published: May 2016

Abstract. The Plant–Craig stochastic convection parameterization (version 2.0) is implemented in the Met Office Regional Ensemble Prediction System (MOGREPS-R) and is assessed in comparison with the standard convection scheme with a simple stochastic scheme only, from random parameter variation. A set of 34 ensemble forecasts, each with 24 members, is considered, over the month of July 2009. Deterministic and probabilistic measures of the precipitation forecasts are assessed. The Plant–Craig parameterization is found to improve probabilistic forecast measures, particularly the results for lower precipitation thresholds. The impact on deterministic forecasts at the grid scale is neutral, although the Plant–Craig scheme does deliver improvements when forecasts are made over larger areas. The improvements found are greater in conditions of relatively weak synoptic forcing, for which convective precipitation is likely to be less predictable.
Multiresponse modeling of an unsaturated zone isotope tracer experiment at the Landscape Evolution Observatory
Authors: Scudeler Carlotta , Pangle Luke , Pasetto Damiano , Niu Guo-Yue , Volkmann Till , Paniconi Claudio , Putti Mario , Troch Peter
Published: May 2016

Abstract. This paper explores the challenges of model parameterization and process representation when simulating multiple hydrologic responses from a highly controlled unsaturated flow and transport experiment with a physically-based model. The experiment, conducted at the Landscape Evolution Observatory (LEO), involved alternate injections of water and deuterium enriched water into an initially very dry hillslope. The multivariate observations included point measures of water content and tracer concentration in the soil, total storage within the hillslope, and integrated fluxes of water and solute through the seepage face. The simulations were performed with a three-dimensional finite element model that solves the Richards and advection-dispersion equations. Integrated flow, integrated transport, distributed flow, and distributed transport responses were successively analyzed, with parameterization choices at each step supported by standard model performance metrics. In the first steps of our analysis, where seepage face flow, water storage, and average concentration at the seepage face were the target responses, an adequate match between measured and simulated variables was obtained using a simple parameterization consistent with that from a prior flow-only experiment at LEO. When passing to the distributed responses, it was necessary to introduce heterogeneity to additional soil hydraulic parameters to obtain an adequate match for the point-scale flow response. Augmented heterogeneity also improved the match against point measures of tracer concentration, although model performance here was considerably poorer. This suggests that still greater complexity is needed in the model parameterization, or that there may be gaps in process representation for simulating solute transport phenomena in very dry soils.
High-temperature stable indium oxide photonic crystals: transducer material for optical and resistive gas sensing
Authors: Amrehn Sabrina , Wu Xia , Wagner Thorsten
Published: May 2016

Abstract. Indium oxide (In2O3) inverse opal is a promising new transducer material for resistive and optical gas sensors. The periodically ordered and highly accessible pores of the inverse opal allow the design of resistive sensors with characteristics independent of structure limitations, such as diffusion effects or limited conductivity due to constricted crosslinking. Additionally the photonic properties caused by the inverse opal structure can be utilized to read out the sensors' electronical state by optical methods. Typically semiconducting sensors are operated at high temperatures (> 300 °C). To maintain a good thermal stability of the transducer material during operation is a minimum requirement. We present results on the synthesis and investigation of the structural stability of the In2O3 inverse opal structure up to a temperature of 550 °C (limit of substrate material). As will be shown, their optical properties are maintained with only slight shifts of the photonic band gaps which can be explained by the results from the structural characterization using X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy combined with optical simulations.