bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USO DE RÚBRICAS PARA LA EVALUACIÓN DE TEXTOS ACADÉMICOS: UN DESAFÍO EN LA ENSEÑANZA DE ENFERMERÍA.
Authors: Riquelme Hernández Giselle , Pérez Acuña Claudia , Aedo Carreño Vivian
Published: August 2024

Introducción: Tanto la enseñanza de la escritura como la forma en que se evalúa constituyen un desafío importante en educación superior. La utilización de estrategias evaluativas permite remediar las carencias en habilidades de escritura, al ser no solo un recurso de evaluación exhaustivo y didáctico, sino que también, una guía para el desarrollo del texto en sí mismo. Objetivo: Desarrollar metodologías evaluativas para mejorar los aspectos de forma y contenido en la escritura de textos académicos en Enfermería. Metodología: el proyecto contó de tres fases que contemplaron la construcción de dos instrumentos (fase 1), su aplicación en un texto académico y respectivos ajustes (fase 2), y la evaluación de dicha aplicación (fase 3). Resultados: se obtuvieron dos rúbricas de tipo analíticas conformadas por los ítems de FORMA (aspectos de escritura) y CONTENIDO (aspectos de investigación), las que fueron aplicadas tres veces al texto para evaluar su progreso, observándose mejoras en la calificación global, en coherencia y cohesión en FORMA, y marco teórico, resultados y metodología, en CONTENIDO. Discusión: el uso de rúbricas analíticas son una herramienta muy útil a la hora de evaluar textos académicos. Son instrumentos sumamente completos pues miran el proceso como un todo, actuando no solo como una instancia evaluativa, sino que también formadora para el estudiantado, a la vez que se configuran como una guía para el desarrollo de la escritura.
TEORÍA DEL AFRONTAMIENTO CONSCIENTE Y AUTOCONCIENCIA ADAPTATIVA EN LAS MUJERES EN RECLUSIÓN
Authors: Mateo-Crisostomo Yadira , López Cisneros Manuel , Contreras- de- la -Fuente Hilda Saray , Aguilar Zavala Herlinda , Hernández Ramírez Griselda
Published: August 2024

OBJETIVO: desarrollar una Teoría de Afrontamiento Consciente y Autoconciencia Adaptativa en Mujeres en Reclusión, como fundamento teórico para el estudio de investigación, el cual fue derivado del Modelo de Adaptación de Callista Roy. METODOLOGÍA: Para realizar el proceso de derivación teórica, se utilizó la metodología de Jaqueline Fawcett, la cual consta de 5 pasos: 1. la identificación de conceptos, en este paso abarca el nombre del modelo conceptual; 2.Clasificación de los conceptos, es aplicable solamente a los conceptos de la teoría de alcance intermedio o de rango medio;3. Identificación y clasificación de las proposiciones, que se realiza conforme a las propiedades de observabilidad y variabilidad del fenómeno; 4. El ordenamiento jerárquico de las proposiciones, es decir, la organización de las proposiciones jerárquicamente según su nivel de abstracción; y, 5. La construcción de diagramas, la formalización de una Estructura Teórico-Conceptual-Empírico. DESARROLLO: se definieron los cuatros conceptos principales de la teoría como el estrés percibido, respuestas emocionales, afrontamiento consciente y la autoconciencia adaptativa en las mujeres en reclusión. CONCLUSIÓN: el desarrollo de una derivación teórica basada en el modelo de adaptación de Callista Roy para la Teoría del afrontamiento consciente y la autoconciencia adaptativa es importante, ya que permite una comprensión más profunda de cómo las mujeres en reclusión pueden adaptarse y enfrentar los desafíos que enfrentan en su entorno carcelario.
Entre la escasez y la inundación, Renovación del borde río: caso de la comuna de La Calera
Authors:   , Guadalupe Mendoza Milagros Soledad
Published: August 2024

Esta investigación analiza la ruptura de la relación ciudad-río, en un contexto de vulnerabilidad hídrica, debido principalmente al cambio climático y la alta demanda hídrica en Chile. Se busca indagar sobre las causas de la escasez e inundación del río Aconcagua, y como esto afecta a los asentamientos urbanos próximos a su cauce, haciendo un énfasis en los bordes fluviales. En este contexto de estrés hídrico de la cuenca del Aconcagua, se escoge como caso de estudio a la ciudad de la Calera, por su condición de sequía con 15 decretos de escasez de agua actuales, y por su ubicación geográfica, siendo la única ciudad atravesada por el río en la cuenca, lo cual la hace más vulnerable a inundaciones históricamente. El objetivo de la investigación es buscar diversas estrategias proyectuales, que contribuyan a mitigar el riesgo de posibles inundaciones y reducir la escasez del río. Un proyecto de renovación urbana en el borde río de la ciudad de La Calera, puede reestructurar el borde a modo de reactivar la relación socioespacial ciudad-río.
Exploring Super-Chandrasekhar Supernova SN2007if with radiative transfer code TARDIS
Authors:   , Silva Beyer Joaquín
Published: August 2024

Super-Chandrasekhar Supernovae (SNe) are a peculiar case of Type Ia SNthat show very high luminosities, slow light-curve evolution, and low expan-sion velocities, consistent with progenitor masses over the Chandrasekharlimit (≳ 1.4M⊙). SN 2007if is one of those events, with a still unknownexplosion scenario. Its early spectra are smooth and near featureless, butat later epochs, they seem to morph into a normal Type Ia. I exploredits spectra with radiative transfer code TARDIS, using three models, con-sidering the envelope interaction and the violent merger hypotheses. Thebest model, based on the envelope interaction scenario, resulted in a verygood match for early epochs, and a better match in the later epochs than theother models. I performed abundance tomography and adapted its chemicalstructure, resulting in my model 07if-tail. While it had a good agree-ment with the observed low velocities and some lines, many still featuredtoo deep absorption profiles, and the lines suggested a lower temperaturethan the overall continuum. I found that SN2007if probably lacks S and hasno Fe on its outer regions. In order to explain SN2007if’s light curve andspectra, a secondary source of continuum brightness is needed. My findingssupport the scenario of a WD-WD slow merger, forming a CO envelope thatinteracts with the explosion’s ejecta.
Crowding the Pond? Technological Change Under Search Frictions
Authors:   ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile. Instituto de Economía, Camino Pérez Nicolás de
Published: August 2024

In this thesis, I investigate the recent evolution of employment under a framework of noncompetitive labor markets. First, I show that “routine biased technological change” has seemingly not had any impact on the task content of jobs for higher skilled workers in the US. It also had different effects among high- school graduates and dropouts, with the first being displaced out of manual and cognitive routine occupations, and the latter being displaced only from manual routine occupations. A labor market semi-directed search model can explain the differing trends of employment for differently skilled workers. The differences are explained mainly by an extra-skill congestion effect, which amplifies the effect of changes in demand on the job finding probabilities for lower skilled workers. This framework also allows me to study the hypothesis of crowding out of low- skill workers by high-skill workers in the labor market. I find some evidence of this mechanism, although its effect appears to be small and less important than the effects of changes in labor demand.
Uso de cuestiones socio científicas en el aula de ciencias mediante reportes de investigaciones científicas chilenas para fortalecer la argumentación en estudiantes de enseñanza media
Authors:   , Nahuelcura Lobos Roxana
Published: August 2024

La ciencia estudia los fenómenos naturales y comunica sus hallazgos mediante la argumentación. Existen autores que han evidenciado el rol de la argumentación en la enseñanza de las ciencias como el desarrollo del pensamiento crítico, la alfabetización científica y competencias de pensamiento científico.En esta investigación se evaluaron argumentos relacionados con el tema de cambio climático en estudiantes de 3° medio de la asignatura de ciencias para la ciudadanía. Se propone como oportunidad de mejora el diseño de una secuencia didáctica basada en el análisis de reportes científicos chilenos con la finalidad de dar contexto al cambio climático en chile y fortalecer la habilidad de argumentación escolar. Las respuestas fueron evaluadas con el modelo TAP y una rubrica de calidad de los elementos de la argumentación. Los resultados evidencian que a medida que avanzan en las actividades de la secuencia, los argumentos se fortalecen utilizando la mayoría de los elementos y sofisticando su calidad hasta un nivel avanzado. Las estudiantes evidencian un logro en el aprendizaje de los contenidos relacionados al cambio climático y a la estructura de sus argumentos, se proyecta continuar con el diseño de la secuencia incluyendo otros elementos de la argumentación y fortaleciendo la habilidad en el uso de datos y refutación.
Afrontamiento diádico, tipos de estresores y etapa del ciclo de vida en personas que están en una relación de pareja en Chile
Authors:   , Rodríguez Labarca Macarena del Pilar
Published: August 2024

La relación entre estrés y afrontamiento diádico (A.D) es área de gran desarrollo, existiendo amplia evidencia sobre su relevancia en la calidad y bienestar de las relaciones de parejas. Los desafíos en este campo son el poder estudiar la evolución y cambios que puede enfrentar el A.D a través del tiempo, considerando el ciclo de vida y sus particularidades contextuales. En este contexto, la presenta investigación se ha planteado poder establecer la relación entre estresores externos e internos y el A.D considerando la etapa de vida de las personas. Se trabajó con datos secundarios proyecto Fondecyt, considerando una muestra de 394 personas, definiéndose tres etapas de vida a estudiar. Se utilizó un diseño de investigación no experimental, transversal y correlacional, Los resultados indican que las personas en pareja con hijos en infancia temprana, presentan mayores niveles de estrés, tanto interno como externo a la relación, siendo el estrés interno el de mayor influencia en las parejas en todas las etapas. En consideración a la relación entre A.D y estrés según etapa del ciclo de vida, los resultados dan cuenta que la etapa de vida no modera la relación entre variables, observándose una relación inversa entre el estrés y afrontamiento diádico, existiendo un A.D menor en etapas posteriores de vida, cuando se cuenta con hijos mayores y mayor tiempo de relación.
Molhabilidade de chapas de titânio utilizado em implantes de prótese craniana em superfícies tratadas com o processo de foto-funcionalização
Authors: Santos Ricardo Luiz dos , Castelan Jovani , Daleffe Anderson , Casagrande Henrique Cechinel
Published: August 2024

A ciência humana busca melhorar seus métodos de aplicação e equipamentos constantemente, onde visa aprimorar a qualidade de vida presente e futura. Uma maneira de aumentar o conforto humano é através de implantes, possibilitando que pessoas com deficiências físicas, sejam congênitas ou adquiridas ao longo da vida, desfrutem de uma rotina mais simples e natural. Dessa forma, estuda-se e aplica-se o desenvolvimento de um equipamento capaz de melhorar a compatibilidade entre metal e corpo humano. Utiliza-se a foto-funcionalização em chapas de titânio para melhorar a capacidade de hidrofilicidade deste material. Assim sendo, através de inovação e tecnologia, foi utilizado o processo de estampagem incremental para fabricar uma prótese craniana. Visto que, após a etapa de conformação mecânica, com auxílio de programação numérica, a chapa de titânio necessita passar por um tratamento térmico de alívio de tensões, devido ao fator elástico, fenômeno presente nos metais. Logo após tratamento térmico com temperatura de 595 °C, conforme indicado na literatura, chapas de titânio foram submetidas à exposição Ultravioleta (UV), o que apresentou resultado de um material super hidrofílico, com ângulo de contato em 0°, o que indica boa aderência entre sólido (titânio) e líquido (fluído corporal). No entanto, a chapa que não passou por tratamento térmico, ou de UV, apresentou ângulo de contato de 94°, caracterizando um material hidrofóbico, ou seja, possui menor adesão entre líquido e sólido. Portanto, a união entre o processo de estampagem incremental e a técnica de foto-funcionalização, obtiveram resultados positivos, facilitando a fabricação e o implante de próteses.
Association for Yield and Yield Related Traits in an RIL Population of Green Gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilezek)
Authors: Anuradha CH. , Salman Mohd Abdus Subhan
Published: August 2024

Background: Green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek), a significant annual legume, is a member of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Papilionoideae, and genus Vigna. Despite its importance, large-scale cultivation of green gram faces limitations due to various biotic and abiotic constraints. To address this challenge, our research is focused on the development of green gram genotypes with broader adaptability, enhanced genetic variability, and high-yielding potential. This involves a comprehensive study of the nature and magnitude of associations among yield and related traits to facilitate more effective and sustainable production practices.
Methods: The present investigation was carried out at the experimental plots of Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), College farm, College of Agriculture, Hyderabad (TS). The present experiment was conducted to determine correlation and path analysis among morphological traits and their contribution towards yield among the F6 Recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in green gram.
Results: Correlation estimate revealed that number of pods cluster-1, the Number of clusters plant-1, the Number of pods plant-1, Seed yield plant-1, plant height (cm), seed weight (g), and pod length (cm) showed a maximum direct contribution to seed yield both phenotypically and genotypically. Path analysis revealed that the parameters demonstrating a significant positive direct impact include days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of branches plant-1 and number of clusters plant-1. The RILs for each character examined showed considerable variability.
Conclusion: The green gram improvement program will benefit from a selection strategy that focuses on traits with a significant direct impact and a positive correlation with seed yield.
Integrating Circular Economy Principles in Urban Development for Sustainable Cities in Nigeria: Lessons from Global and Local Case Studies
Authors: Grace Ejims, , Adib Ibrahim, , Olere Ijasan,
Published: August 2024

Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, faces significant urbanization challenges including waste management, resource scarcity, and environmental degradation. This paper explores the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles in urban development to foster sustainable cities in Nigeria. By examining case studies and best practices from global and local perspectives, including insights from Lebanon's experiences amid its economic crisis, the paper provides strategic recommendations for policymakers, urban planners, and stakeholders to implement CE principles effectively in Nigerian urban contexts. Lebanon's strategic adaptation of CE principles, particularly in response to its severe economic and energy crises, demonstrates the potential for CE to enhance economic resilience and sustainability under challenging conditions. This experience offers critical lessons for Nigeria, as it also faces similar urbanization and sustainability challenges.
A Systematic Review of Mentorship for Early Career Teachers in Rural Appalachia: Addressing Challenges and Promoting Student Success
Authors: Nikoi Catherine
Published: August 2024

Aims: This study explores the mentorship of Early Career Teachers (ECTs) and its impact on student success in Appalachia, Ohio, by systematically reviewing existing literature. The critical role of mentorship in the professional development and retention of ECTs in rural educational settings is examined.
Conceptual Framework: Situated Learning Theory (SLT) was adopted to guide the investigation into the challenges faced by ECTs in rural Appalachia and the significance of structured mentorship programs.
Methodology: This study employs a systematic literature review approach, analyzing findings from existing research on the mentorship of ECTs. A rigorous search, selection, and synthesis of relevant studies were conducted to identify key themes and patterns.
Results: The study revealed significant challenges for ECTs in Appalachia, including professional isolation, lack of resources, and socio-economic barriers. Structured mentorship programs were found to be crucial in enhancing ECTs’ instructional practices, resilience, and professional growth. The bi-directional benefits of mentorship were highlighted, showing positive impacts on both teachers and students.
Conclusion: Effective mentorship is essential for the retention and professional development of ECTs in rural Appalachia. Comprehensive mentorship programs can significantly improve educational outcomes, reduce teacher attrition, and foster a supportive learning environment. Educational leaders and policymakers should prioritize tailored mentorship programs to address the unique challenges of rural settings. Additionally, investing in professional development and increasing access to resources for ECTs are essential for their sustained success and resilience.
Relation between Mindfulness and Post-Earthquake Trauma Levels of Students Who Take and Don’t Take Folk Dance Lesson
Authors: Ekiz Meryem Altun
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between mindfulness and post-earthquake trauma levels of sports sciences faculty students who take and don’t take folk dance lesson. Mixed models was used both qualitative and quantitative approaches.  A total of 94 students, 35 women and 59 men, studying at the faculty of sports sciences, participated in this study. Data were collected using the Mindfulness Scale and the Post-Earthquake Trauma Level Determination Scale. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test and Pearson correlation analysis were applied to analyze the data. According to the research results, it was seen that the students were traumatized at a "high" level according to the scores they received from the PETLDS. A significant difference was observed in favor of the students who took folk dance lessons in the affective dimension, one of the sub-dimensions of the post-earthquake trauma scale, in terms of whether the students took folk dance lessons or not and gender variables. It was determined that there was a significant negative relationship between mindfulness scores and post-earthquake trauma scores. Accordingly, it can be said that if university students' mindfulness scores increase, their post-earthquake trauma scores will decrease.
Larvicidal and Synergistic Properties of Fixed Oils Derived from Plants and their Capacity to inhibit Pupation and Emergence of Malaria Vector (Anopheles gambiae)
Authors: Mano Elias , Belem Moumini , Wangrawa Dimitri W. , Traoré Alphonse , Guelbeogo Moussa W. , Zongo Soumanaba , Zida Adama , Maiga Hamidou , Sow Bazoumana B.D. , Namountougou Moussa , Diabaté Abdoulaye
Published: August 2024

Malaria vectors have evolved resistance to almost all WHO-recommended insecticides, which compromises vector control. This study aimed to evaluate the insecticidal activity of four doses of fixed oils from Jatropha curcas and Ricinus communis on Anopheles gambiae in western Burkina Faso. Biological tests of susceptibility to oil doses were carried out on two populations of the An. gambiae complex from August to October 2022 using the WHO standard protocol. The synergistic or antagonistic effects of the extracts’ combinations were evaluated by comparing “sums of effects” to “effects of sums” according to the WHO protocol. R software enabled probit and ANOVA analyses. All oils showed larvicidal activity on susceptible strains of An. gambiae, Kisumu. The LC50 of the combination of the two oils was lower (54.09±1.03 ppm), followed by the oil of J. curcas (58.8±1.03 ppm) and that of R. communis (139.0±1.04 ppm) on the field strain of An. gambiae. J. curcas oil was more toxic on both strains, leading to 100% mortality at 48h and 72h of exposure. Synergistic insecticidal effects after 24h and additive effects after 48h of the combined oil at 50 and 150 ppm resulted in 41.75% to 91.66% mortality of larvae and reduced pupation from 2.66% to 0.00% and reduced the emergence of An. gambiae from 1.16 to 0.00%. J. curcas and R. communis’ oils contain linalool, tannins, alkaloids, saponins, and terpenes. Applying J. curcas or R. communis oil or a combined oil at 50 and 150 ppm as a spray could constitute an effective strategy for integrated control of An. gambiae mosquitoes.
Using Biochemical and Growth Parameters to Assess Soybean Yield Potential
Authors: Sachin  , V.H. Ashvathama , Naidu G. K. , B.O. Kiran
Published: August 2024

This study, conducted in 2022 at the All India Coordinated Research Project on Soybean Dharwad, aimed to evaluate the yield potential of ten soybean genotypes, including three checks, using biochemical and growth parameters. Employing a randomized block design, the study assessed variations in chlorophyll content, which was highest in genotypes DLSb 3, DSb 34, and DSb 23. Significant differences among genotypes were observed in absolute growth rate (AGR), crop growth rate (CGR), relative growth rate (RGR), and net assimilation rate (NAR). Notably, DSb 34 and DLSb 5 exhibited the highest AGR and CGR at 60-90 days after sowing (DAS), while RGR was most pronounced in DSb 39 at 30-60 DAS. NAR peaked at 60-90 DAS, with DLSb 1 showing the highest values. Yield component analysis identified DLSb 5 and DSb 34 as the top-yielding genotypes, with significant variations in the number of pods per plant among the genotypes. These findings highlight key traits for breeding higher-yielding soybean varieties and offer valuable insights for future research and practical applications in crop improvement.”
Nano Urea Fertilization in Sweet Corn Using Leaf Colour Chart and Its Effect on Nitrogen Use Efficiency
Authors: Muchhadiya R. M. , Kumawat P. D. , Sakarvadia H. L. , Lakhani S. H. , Ninama A. R.
Published: August 2024

Broad based blanket recommendations of fertilizer nitrogen (N) in field may end up with lower N use efficiency because of large field-to field variability of soil N. At the identical time, crop should not suffer from the deficiency of N. Nitrogen fertilizer must be applied only when necessary and must be based on the crop’s nitrogen status. So, keeping in view the significance of N on productivity, a field experiment was conducted during summer seasons of 2022 and 2023 on medium black calcareous soil at Junagadh (Gujarat) to study nano urea fertilization in sweet corn using leaf colour chart (LCC) and its effect on nitrogen use efficiency. Ten treatments comprising 40 kg N as basal (through DAP and urea) + 40 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS (days after sowing) + 40 kg N through urea at 40-45 DAS (T1), 40 kg N as basal + 40 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + two foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% (4 ml/l water) when LCC ≤ 4 (T2), 40 kg N as basal + 30 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + three foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T3), 40 kg N as basal + 20 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + four foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T4), 40 kg N as basal + 20 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + three foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T5), 40 kg N as basal + 10 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + four foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T6), 40 kg N as basal + 10 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + three foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T7), 40 kg N as basal + four foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T8), 40 kg N as basal + three foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 (T9) and control (without N application) (T10) in Randomized Block Design with three replications. Recommended dose of 60 kg P2O5 and 60 kg K2O/ha were applied uniformly to all the plots as basal application. The experimental results revealed that 40 kg N as basal + 40 kg N through urea at 25-30 DAS + two foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% when LCC ≤ 4 recorded significantly the highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by cob and fodder and their total uptake by sweet corn, which remained at par with T3 and T1. Significantly maximum available nitrogen in soil after harvest of sweet corn was noted with T1, which remained at par with T2, T3 and T4. It can be concluded that nano urea fertilization in sweet corn using leaf colour chart ultimately resulted in improved nitrogen use efficiency, which also sustained the fertility of medium black calcareous soil.
PSMA PET/CT with Glu-urea-Lys-(Ahx)-[68Ga(HBED-CC)] versus 3D CT volumetric lymph node assessment in recurrent prostate cancer
Authors: Giesel Frederik L. , Fiedler H. , Stefanova M. , Sterzing F. , Rius M. , Kopka K. , Moltz J. H. , Afshar-Oromieh A. , Choyke P. L. , Haberkorn U. , Kratochwil C.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

PET/CT with the PSMA ligand is a powerful new method for the early detection of nodal metastases in patients with biochemical relapse. The purpose of this retrospective investigation was to evaluate the volume and dimensions of nodes identified by Glu-urea-Lys-(Ahx)-[68Ga(HBED-CC)] (68Ga-PSMA-11) in the setting of recurrent prostate cancer.

Methods

All PET/CT images were acquired 60 ± 10 min after intravenous injection of 68Ga-PSMA-11 (mean dose 176 MBq). In 21 patients with recurrent prostate cancer and rising PSA, 49 PSMA-positive lymph nodes were identified. Using semiautomated lymph node segmentation software, node volume and short-axis and long-axis dimensions were measured and compared with the maximum standardized uptake values (SUVmax). Round nodes greater than or equal to 8 mm were considered positive by morphological criteria alone. The percentage of nodes identified by elevated SUVmax but not by conventional morphological criteria was determined.

Results

The mean volume of 68Ga-PSMA-11-positive nodes was 0.5 ml (range 0.2 – 2.3 ml), and the mean short-axis diameter was 5.8 mm (range 2.4 – 13.3 mm). In 7 patients (33.3 %) with 31 PSMA-positive nodes only 11 (36 %) were morphologically positive based on diameters >8 mm on CT. In the remaining 14 patients (66.7 %), 18 (37 %) of PSMA positive lymph nodes had short-axis diameters <8 mm with a mean short-axis diameter of 5.0 mm (range 2.4 – 7.9 mm). Thus, in this population, 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT detected nodal recurrence in two-thirds of patients who would have been missed using conventional morphological criteria.

Conclusion

68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/CT is more sensitive than CT based 3D volumetric lymph node evaluation in determining the node status of patients with recurrent prostate cancer, and is a promising method of restaging prostate cancers in this setting.
Assessing Trauma Care Capabilities of the Health Centers in Northern Ghana
Authors: Tabiri Stephen , Nicks Bret A. , Dykstra Richard , Hiestand Brian , Hildreth Amy
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Traffic‐related injury is a major and increasing cause of global mortality, especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). However, trauma systems, personnel, resources, and infrastructure are frequently insufficient to meet the needs of the population in this at‐risk population in LMICs. In addition, these resources are not uniformly distributed, coordinated, nor well described within most countries. Trauma care resources have not previously been characterized in the Northern Region of Ghana.

Methods

We performed uniform site evaluations and interviews at 92 hospitals in Northern Ghana. Trauma systems, material resources, and human resources were quantified. Equipment was characterized as available in the Emergency Department (ED), in the hospital only, or unavailable. Hospitals were categorized as primary, district, or referral.

Results

Forty‐two primary hospitals, 48 district hospitals, 3 regional hospitals, and 1 teaching hospital were surveyed. Over 95 % of hospitals reported having no training or systems for the care of injured patients. Substantial clinical equipment deficits were found at most primary hospitals. In over 90 % of these hospitals, the majority of circulation and monitoring, airway and breathing, and diagnostic imagining resources were not available. Equipment was also frequently unavailable at district and regional hospitals. When available, these resources were infrequently present in the ED.

Conclusions

Although resources may be unavoidably constrained, there are substantial opportunities to improve the systematic management of trauma care and improve the education of the medical providers regarding care of injured patients in the region studied.
Elimination of formate production in Clostridium thermocellum
Authors: Rydzak Thomas , Lynd Lee R , Guss Adam M
Published: July 2015

The ability of Clostridium thermocellum to rapidly degrade cellulose and ferment resulting hydrolysis products into ethanol makes it a promising platform organism for cellulosic biofuel production via consolidated bioprocessing. Currently, however, ethanol yield is far below theoretical maximum due to branched product pathways that divert carbon and electrons towards formate, H2, lactate, acetate, and secreted amino acids. To redirect carbon and electron flux away from formate, genes encoding pyruvate:formate lyase (pflB) and PFL-activating enzyme (pflA) were deleted. Formate production in the resulting Δpfl strain was eliminated and acetate production decreased by 50 % on both complex and defined medium. The growth rate of the Δpfl strain decreased by 2.9-fold on defined medium and biphasic growth was observed on complex medium. Supplementation of defined medium with 2 mM formate restored Δpfl growth rate to 80 % of the parent strain. The role of pfl in metabolic engineering strategies and C1 metabolism is discussed.
The Effect of Neighborhood Recorded Crime on Fear: Does Neighborhood Social Context Matter?
Authors: Pearson Amber L. , Breetzke Gregory , Ivory Vivienne
Published: July 2015

A number of individual and neighborhood‐level factors may influence the relationship between recorded crime in one’s neighborhood and fear of crime. Understanding these factors may assist in reducing fear, which has been associated with poorer physical and mental health. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the effect of recorded crime rates on fear differs based on the neighborhood social context (social fragmentation) using hierarchical regression modelling, with separate analyses by crime type. Recorded crimes (2008–2010) and national (New Zealand) survey data were used. Higher crime in a neighborhood was associated with higher fear of crime, with only small effect size differences in feelings of fear by recorded type of crime. However, when stratified, the associations between violent and drug/alcohol crimes and fear of crime were larger for those living in highly fragmented neighborhoods compared with less fragmented neighborhoods. Efforts to alleviate fear of crime should focus on the broader neighborhood social context in which these feelings are espoused.
Basophilia and megakaryoblastic differentiation in a case of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Sreedharanunni Sreejesh , Kumar Narender , Prakash Gaurav
Published: July 2015

Basophilia is commonly associated with chronic myelogenous leukemia, notably in the accelerated phase or during blast crisis. It is also associated with other myeloproliferative neoplasms. However, its association with acute leukemia is very rare and is described in association with acute basophilic leukemia and few acute myeloid leukemias (AMLs) with recurrent genetic abnormalities such as t(6;9)(p23;q34). Herein, we describe the morphological features and discuss the differential diagnosis of a case of AML with the blasts showing previously unreported unusual combination of megakaryoblastic and basophilic differentiation along with peripheral blood and bone marrow basophilia.
RISK MARGIN QUANTILE FUNCTION VIA PARAMETRIC AND NON-PARAMETRIC BAYESIAN APPROACHES
Authors: Dong Alice X.D. , Chan Jennifer S.K. , Peters Gareth W.
Published: July 2015

We develop quantile functions from regression models in order to derive risk margin and to evaluate capital in non-life insurance applications. By utilizing the entire range of conditional quantile functions, especially higher quantile levels, we detail how quantile regression is capable of providing an accurate estimation of risk margin and an overview of implied capital based on the historical volatility of a general insurers loss portfolio. Two modeling frameworks are considered based around parametric and non-parametric regression models which we develop specifically in this insurance setting. In the parametric framework, quantile functions are derived using several distributions including the flexible generalized beta (GB2) distribution family, asymmetric Laplace (AL) distribution and power-Pareto (PP) distribution. In these parametric model based quantile regressions, we detail two basic formulations. The first involves embedding the quantile regression loss function from the nonparameteric setting into the argument of the kernel of a parametric data likelihood model, this is well known to naturally lead to the AL parametric model case. The second formulation we utilize in the parametric setting adopts an alternative quantile regression formulation in which we assume a structural expression for the regression trend and volatility functions which act to modify a base quantile function in order to produce the conditional data quantile function. This second approach allows a range of flexible parametric models to be considered with different tail behaviors. We demonstrate how to perform estimation of the resulting parametric models under a Bayesian regression framework. To achieve this, we design Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling strategies for the resulting Bayesian posterior quantile regression models. In the non-parametric framework, we construct quantile functions by minimizing an asymmetrically weighted loss function and estimate the parameters under the AL proxy distribution to resemble the minimization process. This quantile regression model is contrasted to the parametric AL mean regression model and both are expressed as a scale mixture of uniform distributions to facilitate efficient implementation. The models are extended to adopt dynamic mean, variance and skewness and applied to analyze two real loss reserve data sets to perform inference and discuss interesting features of quantile regression for risk margin calculations.
Frequency domain and time domain analysis of thermoacoustic oscillations with wave-based acoustics
Authors: Orchini A. , Illingworth S. J. , Juniper M. P.
Published: July 2015

Many thermoacoustic systems exhibit rich nonlinear behaviour. Recent studies show that this nonlinear dynamics can be well captured by low-order time domain models that couple a level set kinematic model for a laminar flame, the $G$-equation, with a state-space realization of the linearized acoustic equations. However, so far the $G$-equation has been coupled only with straight ducts with uniform mean acoustic properties, which is a simplistic configuration. In this study, we incorporate a wave-based model of the acoustic network, containing area and temperature variations and frequency-dependent boundary conditions. We cast the linear acoustics into state-space form using a different approach from that in the existing literature. We then use this state-space form to investigate the stability of the thermoacoustic system, both in the frequency and time domains, using the flame position as a control parameter. We observe frequency-locked, quasiperiodic and chaotic oscillations. We identify the location of Neimark–Sacker bifurcations with Floquet theory. We also find the Ruelle–Takens–Newhouse route to chaos with nonlinear time series analysis techniques. We highlight important differences between the nonlinear response predicted by the frequency domain and the time domain methods. This reveals deficiencies with the frequency domain technique, which is commonly used in academic and industrial studies of thermoacoustic systems. We then demonstrate a more accurate approach based on continuation analysis applied to time domain techniques.
Energy allocation during the maturation of adults in a long-lived insect: implications for dispersal and reproduction
Authors: David G. , Giffard B. , van Halder I. , Piou D. , Jactel H.
Published: July 2015

Energy allocation strategies have been widely documented in insects and were formalized in the context of the reproduction process by the terms ‘capital breeder’ and ‘income breeder’. We propose here the extension of this framework to dispersal ability, with the concepts of ‘capital disperser’ and ‘income disperser’, and explore the trade-off in resource allocation between dispersal and reproduction. We hypothesized that flight capacity was sex-dependent, due to a trade-off in energy allocation between dispersal and egg production in females. We usedMonochamus galloprovincialisas model organism, a long-lived beetle which is the European vector of the pine wood nematode. We estimated the flight capacity with a flight mill and used the number of mature eggs as a proxy for the investment in reproduction. We used the ratio between dry weights of the thorax and the abdomen to investigate the trade-off. The probability of flying increased with the adult weight at emergence, but was not dependent on insect age or sex. Flight distance increased with age in individuals but did not differ between sexes. It was also positively associated with energy allocation to thorax reserves, which increased with age. In females, the abdomen weight and the number of eggs also increase with age with no negative effect on flight capacity, indicating a lack of trade-off. This long-lived beetle has a complex strategy of energy allocation, being a ‘capital disperser’ in terms of flight ability, an ‘income disperser’ in terms of flight performance and an ‘income breeder’ in terms of egg production.
Effect of otitis media with effusion on cochlear implant surgery: technical difficulties, post-operative complications and outcome
Authors: Alzoubi F , Odat H , Nuseir A , Al Omari A , Al-Zuraiqi B
Published: July 2015

Objective:

This study evaluated the complications and outcomes of cochlear implantation in patients who had otitis media with effusion at the time of surgery.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review study was performed of 87 consecutive paediatric patients (age range 22 months to 10 years, mean 4.8 years) who underwent successful cochlear implantation, with follow-up periods of 5–6 years. All patients had unilateral implants, with eight on the left side. All devices were activated two weeks after implantation. The effect of the middle-ear condition on the procedure, post-operative complications and outcome were evaluated.

Results:

Unilateral ears of 17 otitis media with effusion patients were implanted with some surgical difficulties but no long-term post-operative complications.

Conclusion:

For children admitted for cochlear implantation who are subsequently found to have otitis media with effusion, surgeons should be aware of possible surgical difficulties. Greater intra-operative risks should be anticipated and more surgical time allowed for cochlear implantation in these patients.
Conservation of the black-crested gibbon in China
Authors: Bleisch William , Nan Chen
Published: July 2015

The black-crested gibbon is believed to be endangered throughout its range in China and northern Vietnam, where much of the original forest has been destroyed. The only reserves known to have substantial populations are the Ailao Mountain and Wuliang Mountain Natural Protected Areas in Yunnan Province, China, which together may have 1500 of an estimated total of 3500 black-crested gibbons in protected areas in China. Although they are probably the best protected, the gibbon populations of both reserves have been badly depleted by deforestation and hunting. Recent reports that roads will be constructed through the centres of the reserves, and that gold has been discovered in one of them, increase concern. The Ministry of Forestry has started new conservation measures, but further action is required.
Distinguishing bipolar from unipolar depression: the importance of clinical symptoms and illness features
Authors: Leonpacher A. K. , Liebers D. , Pirooznia M. , Jancic D. , MacKinnon D. F. , Mondimore F. M. , Schweizer B. , Potash J. B. , Zandi P. P. ,   NIMH Genetics Initiative Bipolar Disorder Consortium,   GenRED Consortium, Goes F. S.
Published: July 2015

Background

Distinguishing bipolar disorder (BP) from major depressive disorder (MDD) has important relevance for prognosis and treatment. Prior studies have identified clinical features that differ between these two diseases but have been limited by heterogeneity and lack of replication. We sought to identify depression-related features that distinguish BP from MDD in large samples with replication.

Method

Using a large, opportunistically ascertained collection of subjects with BP and MDD we selected 34 depression-related clinical features to test across the diagnostic categories in an initial discovery dataset consisting of 1228 subjects (386 BPI, 158 BPII and 684 MDD). Features significantly associated with BP were tested in an independent sample of 1000 BPI cases and 1000 MDD cases for classifying ability in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

Seven clinical features showed significant association with BPI compared with MDD: delusions, psychomotor retardation, incapacitation, greater number of mixed symptoms, greater number of episodes, shorter episode length, and a history of experiencing a high after depression treatment. ROC analyses of a model including these seven factors showed significant evidence for discrimination between BPI and MDD in an independent dataset (area under the curve = 0.83). Only two features (number of mixed symptoms, and feeling high after an antidepressant) showed an association with BPII versus MDD.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that clinical features distinguishing depression in BPI versus MDD have important classification potential for clinical practice, and should also be incorporated as ‘baseline’ features in the evaluation of novel diagnostic biomarkers.
Introducing a two temperature plasma ignition in inertial confined targets under the effect of relativistic shock waves: The case of DT and pB11
Authors: Eliezer Shalom , Henis Zohar , Nissim Noaz , Pinhasi Shirly Vinikman , Martinez Val José Maria
Published: July 2015

A criterion for a two temperature plasma nuclear fusion ignition is derived by using a common model. In particular, deuterium-tritium (DT) and proton–boron11 (pB11) are considered for pre-compressed plasma. The ignition criterion is described by a surface in the three-dimensional space defined by the electron and ion temperatures Te, Ti, and the plasma density times the hot spot dimension, ρ·R. The appropriate fusion ion temperatures Ti are larger than 10 keV for DT and 150 keV for pB11. The required value of ρ·R for pB11 ignition is larger by a factor of 50 or more than for DT, depending on the electron temperature. Furthermore, our ignition criterion obtained here for pB11 fusion is practically impossible for equal electron and ion temperatures. In this paper it is suggested to use a two temperature laser induced shock wave in the intermediate domain between relativistic and non-relativistic shock waves. The laser parameters required for fast ignition are calculated. In particular, we find that for DT case one needs a 3 kJ/1 ps laser to ignite a pre-compressed target at about 600 g/cm3. For pB11 ignition it is necessary to use more than three orders of magnitude of laser energy for the same laser pulse duration.
Modelling Collision Potentials in Port Anchorages: Application of the Navigational Traffic Conflict Technique (NTCT)
Authors: Debnath Ashim Kumar , Chin Hoong Chor
Published: July 2015

Despite the extent of works done on modelling port water collisions, not much research effort has been devoted to modelling collisions at port anchorages. This paper aims to fill this important gap in the literature by applying the Navigation Traffic Conflict Technique (NTCT) to measuring the collision potentials in anchorages and for examining the factors contributing to collisions. Building on the principles of the NTCT, a collision potential measurement model and a collision potential prediction model were developed. These models were illustrated by using vessel movement data of the anchorages in Singapore port waters. Results showed that the measured collision potentials are in close agreement with those perceived by harbour pilots. Higher collision potentials were found in anchorages attached to the shoreline and international fairways, but not at those attached to confined water. Higher operating speeds, larger numbers of isolated danger marks and day conditions were associated with reduction in the collision potentials.
Did AIDS mortality decrease the number of lifetime sexual partners in Kenya: an ecological analysis?
Authors: KENYON C. R. , SCHWARTZ I. , BUYZE J.
Published: July 2015

We assessed if there has been a decline in the median number of reported lifetime sexual partners in Kenya following the AIDS epidemic. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare the median and interquartile range (IQR) of the number of lifetime sexual partners for men aged 20–54 years in the 1993 and 2008 Kenyan Demographic Health Surveys. The median number of sexual partners in 1993 increased rapidly to 10 partners reported at age 30 years then plateaued at this level. In 2008, the median number of sexual partners plateaued at around half the value of the 1993 plateau. The median number of lifetime sexual partners for men aged 20–54 years declined from 10 (IQR 4-20) in 1993 to 3 (IQR 2-7) in 2008 (P< 0·001). This decline could be due to a combination of the effects of AIDS mortality and a misreporting bias.
Non-invasive assessment of endothelial function in children with obesity and lipid disorders
Authors: Hudgins Lisa C. , Annavajjhala Vidhya , Kovanlikaya Arzu , Frank Maura D. , Solomon Aliza , Parker Thomas S. , Cooper Rubin S.
Published: July 2015

Background

Digital tonometry is designed to non-invasively screen for endothelial dysfunction by the detection of impaired flow-induced reactive hyperaemia in the fingertip. We determined whether digital reactive hyperaemia correlated with risk factors for atherosclerosis in two groups of children at increased risk for endothelial dysfunction.

Methods

A total of 15 obese children and 23 non-obese, dyslipidaemic children, 8–21 years of age, were enrolled, and their medical histories, anthropometric measurements, carotid wall thickness by means of ultrasonography, and fasting blood samples for cardiovascular risk factors were obtained. The standard endoPAT index of digital reactive hyperaemia was modified to reflect the true peak response or the integrated response of the entire post-occlusion period. In each group, age, sex, pubertal status, carotid wall thickness, and multiple cardiovascular risk factors were tested as predictors of endothelial dysfunction.

Results

In the non-obese, dyslipidaemic group, but not in the obese group, both indices strongly correlated with height (r=0.55, p=0.007, by peak response) followed by weight, waist circumference, and age. In both groups, neither index of reactive hyperaemia significantly correlated with any other cardiovascular risk factor.

Conclusions

Contrary to the known age-related increase in atherosclerosis, digital reactive hyperaemia increased with age and its correlates in non-obese, dyslipidaemic children and was not related to other cardiovascular risk factors in either group. The reason for the lack of this relationship with age in obese children is unknown. The age-dependent physiology of digital microvascular reactivity and the endothelium-independent factors controlling the peak hyperaemic response need further study in children with a wide age range.