bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist as Clinician and Advocate in a Primary Health Care Clinic
Authors: DeFlon Sarah
Published: August 2012

The clinical nurse specialist (CNS) functions as an expert clinician to disseminate knowledge and apply evidence-based practice in his or her role. The framework of CNS practice competencies (patient, nurse, and system) reflects an opportunity to advocate for disadvantaged and underserved populations when providing care. Strategies, techniques, and tools to advance CNS practice in the primary care setting are discussed.
Partnering in Interprofessional Education to Design Simulation Programs to Promote Collaboration and Patient Safety
Authors: Norsen Lisa , Spillane Linda L.
Published: August 2012

Interprofessional education (IPE) using simulation strategies is a rewarding way to promote teamwork and interprofessional collaboration. The benefits of collaboration far outweigh the challenges that arise from differences in educational culture and scheduling logistics.
Using Patient Satisfaction as a Basis for Reimbursement: Political, Financial, and Philosophical Implications
Authors: Zamora Debra
Published: August 2012

Patient satisfaction has always been important; however, basing monetary value on patients ‘perceptions is causing a strenuous debate in health care. Hospital administrators and providers alike are scrambling to implement measures to improve patients ‘experiences of care and avoid cuts in revenue.
Exploring the Sleep Experience of Hospitalized Adult Patients
Authors: Hultman Todd , Bulette Coakley Amanda , Donahue Annese Christine , Bouvier Sharon
Published: August 2012

Interruptions in sleep for hospitalized patients have been correlated with decreases in immune function, changes in mental status, and increased stress levels. The purpose of this study was to explore patients ‘perceptions of their sleep experiences during hospitalization. Structured interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of patients who had spent three consecutive nights in the hospital. Data was analyzed by content analysis; three themes emerged from the data. The findings from this pilot study will lead to further research in nursing practice as it relates to supporting sleep and rest in hospitalized patients.
Partnering with those We Serve: Using Experiential Learning Activities to Support Community Nursing Practice
Authors: Fries Kathleen , Stewart Julie G.
Published: August 2012

The concept of community is multidimensional and may include geographical boundaries and/or the shared interests of its members. Community nursing practice involves nurses, patients, and families who collaborate to address health issues and to promote positive health initiatives. Informed by community health theorists, experiential learning activities provide the structure to promote partnering in community nursing practice to achieve outcomes that benefit those who serve and those who are served.
“I Am the Professor of Myself”: How Our Patients and Their Loved Ones Become Our Teachers and Models
Authors: Savett Laurence A.
Published: August 2012

As health care professionals, we commit ourselves to lifelong learning. In that quest, wise professionals know that our patients and their loved ones become our most important teachers.

In no uncertain terms my new patient, who also was a long-standing friend, challenged me and put me in my place as I continually urged her to change her previous antihypertensive medicines that just weren't working. Finally closing the discussion as she declined to make a change, she said, “Larry, I am the professor of myself.”
Assessing characteristic time and space scales of in-sewer processes by analysis of one year of continuous in-sewer monitoring data
Authors: Schilperoort R. P. S. , Dirksen J. , Langeveld J. G. , Clemens F. H. L. R.
Published: August 2012

Long-term and high-frequency in-sewer monitoring opens up a broad range of possibilities to study (influences on) water quantity and quality variations. Using data from the Eindhoven wastewater system in The Netherlands both dry weather flow and wet weather flow situations have been studied. For approximately 160 dry weather days mean diurnal variations of flow and pollutant concentrations have been derived. For wet weather situations (≈ 40 storm events) peak load factors have been studied. Generally, peak load factors for all considered pollutant parameters are larger than one. Peak load factors for particulate matter are larger than for dissolved constituents. Also, the smallest catchment area consistently shows the largest mean peak factors and vice versa.
Removal of organic micro-pollutants from solid waste landfill leachate in membrane bioreactor operated without excess sludge discharge
Authors: Boonyaroj V. , Chiemchaisri C. , Chiemchaisri W. , Yamamoto K.
Published: August 2012

Two-stage membrane bioreactor (MBR) system was applied to the treatment of landfill leachate from a solid waste disposal site in Thailand. The first stage anoxic reactor was equipped with an inclined tube module for sludge separation. It was followed by an aerobic stage with a hollow fiber membrane module for solid liquid separation. Mixed liquor sludge from the aerobic reactor was re-circulated back to anoxic reactor in order to maintain constant mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentration in the aerobic reactor. The removal of micro-pollutants from landfill leachate along the treatment period of 300 days was monitored. The results indicated that two-stage MBRs could remove biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and NH4+ by 97, 87 and 91% at steady operating condition. Meanwhile organic micro-pollutant removals were 50–76%. The removal efficiencies varied according to the hydrophobic characteristic of compounds but they were improved during long-term MBR operation without sludge discharge.
Assessing flood vulnerability using a rule-based fuzzy system
Authors: Yazdi J. , Neyshabouri S. A. A. S.
Published: August 2012

Population growth and urbanization in the last decades have increased the vulnerability of properties and societies in flood-prone areas. Vulnerability analysis is one of the main factors used to determine the necessary measures of flood risk reduction in floodplains. At present, the vulnerability of natural disasters is analyzed by defining the various physical and social indices. This study presents a model based on a fuzzy rule-based system to address various ambiguities and uncertainties from natural variability, and human knowledge and preferences in vulnerability analysis. The proposed method is applied for a small watershed as a case study and the obtained results are compared with one of the index approaches. Both approaches present the same ranking for the sub-basin's vulnerability in the watershed. Finally, using the scores of vulnerability in different sub-basins, a vulnerability map of the watershed is presented.
Removal of hydrogen sulfide using palygorskite in a fixed bed adsorber
Authors: Higuchi T. , Zhang Q. , Sekine M. , Imai T. , Yamamoto K.
Published: August 2012

This work describes the use of a novel palygorskite, a type of magnesium aluminium silicate clay possessing a high specific surface area and pore surface activity, as a low cost and highly efficient adsorbent for hydrogen sulfide (H2S) removal. Adsorption of H2S on palygorskite pretreated with acid or base was investigated in a fixed bed adsorber. The samples after base pretreatment had better dynamic adsorption performances than raw material and samples pretreated with acid. The H2S adsorption capacity decreased with an increase in inlet H2S concentration. This can be interpreted by the fact that H2S adsorption on the surface of palygorskite is chemisorption. The adsorption capacity increased from 25 to 50 °C, then decreased from 50 to 100 °C, which indicates that chemisorption took place and its better reaction temperature was around 50 °C.
A risk-based approach to improve monitoring and performance of remote waste stabilisation ponds
Authors: Sweeney D. G. , Louey-Gung J. , Dysart A.
Published: August 2012

A cost-effective risk-based system was developed for assessing the performance and potential environmental impact of a large number of geographically dispersed pond systems, where cost and logistical issues prevent direct monitoring. In the process, a range of risk functions were calculated for each site to take into account pond performance, receiving environment, influent quality, surrounding land use and system size. Pond performance was estimated using traditional design equations, including Monte Carlo analysis to account for uncertainty in boundary conditions. The calculation of combined risk functions for all systems enabled the quantitative ranking of systems, which can be used to prioritise limited sampling resources.
Comparison of aluminum alloy welding characteristics with 1 kW CO and CO2 lasers
Authors: Mehmetli Bülent A. , Takahashi Kunimitsu , Sato Shunichi
Published: August 2012

Welding characteristics of various aluminum alloys (A1100, A2017, A5083, A6063, A7N01) are investigated with CW CO and CO2 lasers near 1 kW power level. The beam characteristics of both lasers at the welding point are similar, so that a comparison can be made of the effect of the wavelength difference. The welding characteristics are assessed by measuring the size of the weld bead. It is found that the threshold power between heat-conduction and deep-penetration type welds is lower for the CO laser. This effect is attributed to the higher Fresnel absorption on the material surface at shorter wavelength. Simple reflectivity experiments which measured the strength of the reflected laser beam from the material surface confirmed this. For both laser types, the threshold power also depends upon the thermal conductivity of the alloy. The operating power level is relatively low compared to most common welding conditions, so no difference between gas types is observed because of low-temperature plasma. The lower threshold power needed for deep-penetration welds with the CO laser may be exploited for high-speed welding of thin-sheet metals with high reflectivity and high thermal conductivity, such as aluminum or copper alloys.
Laser technology at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Authors: Simpson Marc L. , Miller John C. , Lowndes Doug H.
Published: August 2012

Researchers at the Department of Energy (DOE) facilities at Oak Ridge perform a variety of basic and applied research involving lasers and laser technology. One of the major strengths at Oak Ridge is the combination of core capabilities in optical materials, optical diagnostics, and sensors. Communities benefiting from these core capabilities include environmental, biomedical, and industrial sponsors. Industry can interact with Oak Ridge in a variety of ways: with Cooperative Research and Development Agreements (CRADAs), through Work for Others (WFO) programs, and as User Center participants. Oak Ridge is also active in sponsoring workshops and symposia for industrial participants like the Optical Diagnostics in Manufacturing and Process Control symposium held in December 1993. In this paper, an overview of a selection of laser technologies residing at Oak Ridge is provided. Examples of the application of these technologies are given as well as overviews of several on-going CRADAs with industrial partners.
Enhancement of adhesion in coated steels through excimer laser surfacing
Authors: Olfert M. , Mueller R. E. , Duley W. , North T. , Hood J. , Sakai D.
Published: August 2012

Galvanize and galvanneal steel sheet are used extensively by the automotive industry. Through a process of excimer laser surface treatment, we have succeeded in significantly enhancing the adhesion characteristics of these coated steels. Preliminary adhesion tests have been carried out via simple ‘T’ peel testing, using a hot melt nylon resin as the adhesive substrate. The peel test results indicate that, for particular processing conditions, enhanced adhesion exceeding the cohesive strength of the nylon adhesive can be obtained. The results of peel testing are augmented using scanning electron microscopy and profilometry data to correlate adhesion characteristics with surface topography.
High power calibration of commercial power meters using an NIST-traceable secondary standard
Authors: Lander Michael L. , Bagford John O. , Seibert Daniel B. , Hull Robert J.
Published: August 2012

For the past 19 years, the Laser Hardened Materials Evaluation Laboratory (LHMEL), located at Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, has maintained a number of calibrated high energy power measurement devices capable of measuring CO2 powers up to 150 kW. These devices, calibrated annually to the National Institute for Standards & Technology (NIST) high energy standard calorimeters, serve as secondary standards for in-house calibration of LHMEL's commercial power heads and calorimeters. Recent discussions with academic and industrial laser users have identified an industry need for traceable calibration sources above the 1 kW level. This paper describes the methods used to calibrate LHMEL's commercial power measurement devices using the LHMEL secondary standards and also describes the process by which other laser users can access these same calibration capabilities to confirm the accuracy of their own power heads and calorimeters. The LHMEL calibration capability offers academic and industrial laser users the opportunity to economically calibrate existing power measurement devices on demand to an NIST-traceable secondary standard. The method described has been applied to calibrate systems up to 100 kW while maintaining measurement accuracies to within ±6.3%.
Parametric studies of cutting zircaloy-2 sheets with a laser beam
Authors: Ghosh Swati , Badgujar B. P. , Goswami G. L.
Published: August 2012

The highly reactive and pyrophoric nature of zirconium alloys limits the use of conventional thermal sources (e.g., plasma arc cutting, oxygen flame cutting, etc.) for the cutting and drilling of these alloys. In this context, a highly coherent laser beam provides a good alternative for the cutting and drilling. In the present paper, laser beam cutting of zircaloy-2 sheets of 1.1 mm and 0.74 mm thickness is performed using a 300 W average power pulsed Nd:YAG laser. Pulse energy, pulse repetition rate, nozzle gap, gas pressure and cutting speed were varied to give different laser cutting conditions. Metallographic study of the cut surfaces showed the presence of transformed beta phase in the heat affected zone (HAZ) near the cut surface. The microhardness value across the cut surface was also measured. It showed a gradual increase in microhardness from the base metal (160 VHN) towards the HAZ having a maximum value of 365 VHN. The results of parametric studies of the cutting indicated that, with proper selection of process parameters, very narrow cuts can be easily made in zircaloy-2 using a pulsed Nd:YAG laser with a saving in material and at a much faster rate than alternative processes such as plasma arc cutting and oxygen flame cutting.
Diode-pumped Nd:YAG laser for precision laser machining
Authors: Machan Jason , Valley Marcy , Holleman Gerry , Mitchell Marc , Burchman Dave , Zamel Jim , Harpole George , Injeyan Hagop , Marabella Len
Published: August 2012

Results are presented on a high power, diode-pumped, pulsed Nd:YAG laser for precision laser machining. The laser is an unstable resonator with a graded reflectivity outcoupler, generating a beam with excellent beam quality. The gain medium is a single zig-zag slab, pumped symmetrically by diode arrays. The use of diode arrays minimizes the thermal loading on the slab, and the zig-zag path averages thermal distortions in the zig-zag dimension. Measurements of beam divergence as a function of diode duty-cycle will be presented. Available pulse formats will also be discussed. To date, the laser has produced 720 W at 20% diode duty-cycle with a stable cavity and 550 W at 20% duty cycle with an unstable cavity in close agreement with model predictions. The beam divergence has been measured to be 1.7 times diffraction-limited at 20% duty cycle. The laser has been operated with pulse lengths from 20 μs to 1 ms and is being used to obtain laser processing data, with some results shown.
Filtration of the fumes generated by industrial CO2 laser cutting
Authors: Powell J. , Haferkamp H. , Bach F. W. , Seebaum D. , Hampe A.
Published: August 2012

This paper reviews the subject of fume filtration in the context of industrial laser cutting. Self-cleaning or surface filtration can be used to good effect when cutting metals. The clean exhaust air from such a filter can be recycled into the workplace with an obvious saving on heating bills. Fumes generated during non-metal cutting are a great deal more difficult to filter and recycling of the air is not possible.
Understanding high-power fiber-optic laser beam delivery
Authors: Hunter Boyd V. , Leong Keng H. , Miller Carl B. , Golden James F. , Glesias Robert D. , Laverty Patrick J.
Published: August 2012

Fiber-optic beam delivery is commonly used in industrial laser systems. This article examines the conditions for the optimal propagation of high power beams through optical fibers. Beam quality effects by step and gradient index fibers of different lengths are considered. The differences between the diverging beam from a fiber and the beam at focus and on the fiber face are illustrated. Estimates are provided of the worst-case beam quality to be expected from fibers. Guidelines are also provided for the selection of beam delivery components based on the limitations of the optical system and the tasks to be performed.
Control and optimization of the laser cladding process using matrix cameras and image processing
Authors: Meriaudeau F. , Truchetet F.
Published: August 2012

The laser cladding process, which consists of adding a melted powder on to a substrate in order to improve or change the behavior of the material against corrosion or fatigue, involves many parameters. In order to produce good tracks some of these parameters need to be controlled during the process. We present a low cost system using two charge coupled device (CCD) matrix cameras. One camera provides surface temperature measurements while the other gives information about the powder distribution or geometric characteristics of the tracks. The surface temperature enables us — by use of the Beer–Lambert Law — to detect variations in the mass feed rate. Using such a system we are able to detect fluctuation of 2–3 g min−1 in the mass flow rate. The other camera gives us information related to the powder distribution, a simple algorithm applied to the data acquired from the CCD matrix camera allows us to see very weak fluctuations within both gas fluxes (carriage or protection gas). During the process, this camera is also used to perform geometric measurements. The height and the width of the track are obtained in real time and enable the operator to obtain information related to the process parameters such as the speed of processing or the mass flow rate. We show the result of our system that allows enhancement of the efficiency of the laser cladding process. The conclusion is dedicated to a summary of the presented works and future expectations for this technique.
Academic Discussions
Authors: Elizabeth Tracy , Ross Anderson Trisha L. , Snow Elana H. , Selman Robert L.
Published: August 2012

This article describes the structure of academic discussions during the implementation of a literacy curriculum in the upper elementary grades. The authors examine the quality of academic discussion, using existing discourse analysis frameworks designed to evaluate varying attributes of classroom discourse. To integrate the overlapping qualities of these models with researchers’ descriptions of effective discussion into a single instrument, the authors propose a matrix that (1) moves from a present/absent analytic tendency to a continuum-based model and (2) captures both social and cognitive facets of quality academic discourse. The authors conclude with a discussion of how this matrix could serve to align teachers’ and researchers’ identification of quality academic discussion and the process by which users could measure improvement in students’ discourse skills over time.
Négociation et co-construction du sens en français langueétrangère (FLE) lors d’une immersion dans un environnement virtuel d’apprentissage (EVA)
Authors: Mroz Aurore
Published: August 2012

Résumé:

Cette étude a visé à l’exploration des compétences critiques développées et acquises par un groupe d’apprenants américains en français langue étrangère (FLE) de niveau intermédiaire, dans le cadre d’une expérience pédagogique d’immersion dans un environnement virtuel d’apprentissage (EVA), où les étudiants avaient pour objectif la résolution d’un problème complexe de manière coopérative. L’étude s’est concentrée sur le concept de négociation et de co-construction du sens comme phénomène paradigmatique de compétences critiques émergentes chez les apprenants en langue étrangère, et visait d’abord à évaluer la nature des schémas discursifs du discours produit par les apprenants au cours de leurs interactions par chat dans l’EVA, afin de sonder ce que ces schémas indiquaient de la qualité des compétences critiques de ces apprenants. Par ailleurs, cette étude visait à explorer le point de vue des apprenants dans la perception qu’ils ont eu de l’impact de l’immersion dans l’EVA sur le développement de leurs compétences critiques en français, pour mieux informer l’utilisation qui doit être faite des EVA dans les cours de langue étrangère. Cette étude a été basée sur un protocole méthodologique mixte de recherche, favorisant la complémentarité de données quantitatives et qualitatives pour permettre une validité et une crédibilité accrues des résultats.
A Density Functional Theory Study on the Deformation Behaviors of Fe-Si-B Metallic Glasses
Authors: Zheng Guang-Ping
Published: August 2012

Density functional theory has been employed to investigate the deformation behaviors of glassy Fe-Si-B model systems prepared by ab initio molecular dynamics. The atomistic deformation defects which are closely related to the local dilation volumes or excess volumes and unstable bonding have been systematically analyzed. It has been found that the icosahedral structures are relatively stable under shear deformation until fracture occurs. Plastic flow is indicated by interruption of percolating icosahedral structures, caused by unstable Fe-Si bonding of p-s hybridization in nature.
An Efficient Total Synthesis of a Potent Anti-Inflammatory Agent, Benzocamphorin F, and Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity
Authors: Liao Yu-Ren , Kuo Ping-Chung , Liang Jun-Weil , Shen Yuh-Chiang , Wu Tian-Shung
Published: August 2012

A naturally occurring enynyl-benzenoid, benzocamphorin F (1), from the edible fungus Taiwanofungus camphoratus (Antrodia camphorata) was characterized by comprehensive spectral analysis. It displays anti-inflammatory bioactivity and is valuable for further biological studies. The present study is the first total synthesis of benzocamphorin F and the developed strategy described is a more efficient procedure that allowe the large-scale production of benzocamphorin F for further research of the biological activity both in vitro and in vivo.
The Role of Free Radicals in the Aging Brain and Parkinson’s Disease: Convergence and Parallelism
Authors: Kumar Hemant , Lim Hyung-Woo , More Sandeep Vasant , Kim Byung-Wook , Koppula Sushruta , Kim In Su , Choi Dong-Kug
Published: August 2012

Free radical production and their targeted action on biomolecules have roles in aging and age-related disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). There is an age-associated increase in oxidative damage to the brain, and aging is considered a risk factor for PD. Dopaminergic neurons show linear fallout of 5–10% per decade with aging; however, the rate and intensity of neuronal loss in patients with PD is more marked than that of aging. Here, we enumerate the common link between aging and PD at the cellular level with special reference to oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Oxidative damage includes mitochondrial dysfunction, dopamine auto-oxidation, α-synuclein aggregation, glial cell activation, alterations in calcium signaling, and excess free iron. Moreover, neurons encounter more oxidative stress as a counteracting mechanism with advancing age does not function properly. Alterations in transcriptional activity of various pathways, including nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, glycogen synthase kinase 3β, mitogen activated protein kinase, nuclear factor kappa B, and reduced activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione with aging might be correlated with the increased incidence of PD.
Plant Calcium Content: Ready to Remodel
Authors: Yang Jian , Punshon Tracy , Guerinot Mary Lou , Hirschi Kendal D.
Published: August 2012

By identifying the relationship between calcium location in the plant cell and nutrient bioavailability, the plant characteristics leading to maximal calcium absorption by humans can be identified. Knowledge of plant cellular and molecular targets controlling calcium location in plants is emerging. These insights should allow for better strategies for increasing the nutritional content of foods. In particular, the use of preparation-free elemental imaging technologies such as synchrotron X-ray fluorescence (SXRF) microscopy in plant biology may allow researchers to understand the relationship between subcellular location and nutrient bioavailability. These approaches may lead to better strategies for altering the location of calcium within the plant to maximize its absorption from fruits and vegetables. These modified foods could be part of a diet for children and adults identified as at-risk for low calcium intake or absorption with the ultimate goal of decreasing the incidence and severity of inadequate bone mineralization.
Real Time Voltage and Current Phase Shift Analyzer for Power Saving Applications
Authors: Krejcar Ondrej , Frischer Robert
Published: August 2012

Nowadays, high importance is given to low energy devices (such as refrigerators, deep-freezers, washing machines, pumps, etc.) that are able to produce reactive power in power lines which can be optimized (reduced). Reactive power is the main component which overloads power lines and brings excessive thermal stress to conductors. If the reactive power is optimized, it can significantly lower the electricity consumption (from 10 to 30%—varies between countries). This paper will examine and discuss the development of a measuring device for analyzing reactive power. However, the main problem is the precise real time measurement of the input and output voltage and current. Such quality measurement is needed to allow adequate action intervention (feedback which reduces or fully compensates reactive power). Several other issues, such as the accuracy and measurement speed, must be examined while designing this device. The price and the size of the final product need to remain low as they are the two important parameters of this solution.
Development and Application of Integrated Optical Sensors for Intense E-Field Measurement
Authors: Zeng Rong , Wang Bo , Niu Ben , Yu Zhanqing
Published: August 2012

The measurement of intense E-fields is a fundamental need in various research areas. Integrated optical E-field sensors (IOESs) have important advantages and are potentially suitable for intense E-field detection. This paper comprehensively reviews the development and applications of several types of IOESs over the last 30 years, including the Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI), coupler interferometer (CI) and common path interferometer (CPI). The features of the different types of IOESs are compared, showing that the MZI has higher sensitivity, the CI has a controllable optical bias, and the CPI has better temperature stability. More specifically, the improvement work of applying IOESs to intense E-field measurement is illustrated. Finally, typical uses of IOESs in the measurement of intense E-fields are demonstrated, including application areas such as E-fields with different frequency ranges in high-voltage engineering, simulated nuclear electromagnetic pulse in high-power electromagnetic pulses, and ion-accelerating field in high-energy physics.
Predominance of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus -ST88 and new ST1797 causing wound infection and abscesses
Authors: Moremi Nyambura , Mshana Stephen E , Kamugisha Erasmus , Kataraihya Johannes , Tappe Dennis , Vogel Ulrich , Lyamuya Eligius F , Claus Heike
Published: August 2012

Introduction: Although there has been a worldwide emergence and spread of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), little is known about the molecular epidemiology of MRSA in Tanzania. Methodology: In this study, we characterized MRSA strains isolated from clinical specimens at the Bugando Medical Centre, Tanzania, between January and December 2008. Of 160 S. aureus isolates from 600 clinical specimens, 24 (15%) were found to be MRSA. Besides molecular screening for the Panton Valentine leukocidin (PVL) genes by PCR, MRSA strains were further characterized by Multi-Locus Sequence Typing (MLST) and spa typing. Results: Despite considerable genetic diversity, the spa types t690 (29.1%) and t7231 (41.6%), as well as the sequence types (ST) 88 (54.2%) and 1797 (29.1%), were dominant among clinical isolates. The PVL genes were detected in 4 isolates; of these, 3 were found in ST 88 and one in ST1820. Resistance to erythromycin, clindamicin, gentamicin, tetracycline and co-trimoxazole was found in 45.8%, 62.5%, 41.6%, 45.8% and 50% of the strains, respectively. Conclusion: We present the first thorough typing of MRSA at a Tanzanian hospital.  Despite considerable genetic diversity, ST88 was dominant among clinical isolates at the Bugando Medical Centre. Active and standardized surveillance of nosocomial MRSA infection should be conducted in the future to analyse the infection and transmission rates and implement effective control measures.
Dual Degree Partnership in Nursing: An Innovative Undergraduate Educational Model
Authors: Bastable Susan B. , Markowitz Marianne
Published: August 2012

We report the success of a unique articulation Dual Degree Partnership in Nursing (DDPN) model. The process used to establish and implement this approach is described. Unlike typical 2+2 agreements between associate degree (AD) and bachelor degree (BS) nursing education programs, the DDPN is designed with a 1+2+1 sequence. Intended to attract high school students, this model provides the opportunity to earn two degrees (AD and BS) while experiencing a 4-year campus living and learning environment. This configuration was accomplished without compromising the integrity of either of the established programs. After collecting data over the past 6 years, this model demonstrates popularity with the traditional-aged student, as well as success from an academic perspective. Statistics on retention, graduation, and NCLEX® pass rates indicate the feasibility and success of the model. Based on the findings, the potential for replication is promising for other colleges interested in a similar collaboration.
Home Environmental Hazard Education for Undergraduate and Prelicensure Nursing Students
Authors: Polivka Barbara J. , Chaudry Rosemary Valedes , Mac Crawford J.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a Healthy Homes education module for undergraduate and prelicensure nursing students. The education module, which is based on the National Center for Healthy Housing’s framework for Healthy Homes, was developed, implemented, and evaluated in three phases. Phase 1 included nine Web-based recorded lectures on the Healthy Homes principles and on home assessment and referral. In the next phase, a Healthy Homes clinical laboratory simulation (home visit scenario and four rooms of an apartment) was created. Phase 3 involved piloting home visits by students who, under the supervision of a clinical instructor, conducted Healthy Homes assessments of clients living in two low-income subsidized housing sites. Using a pretest–posttest format, students’ knowledge of Healthy Homes concepts significantly increased after completing the Phase 1 Web-based lectures. Student evaluations, which were collected after each phase, were consistently positive.
Research in Nursing Education: State of the Science
Authors: Broome Marion E. , Ironside Pamela M. , McNelis Angela M.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the educational research currently conducted in U.S. schools of nursing. In this article, we describe the results from a small sample of schools of nursing (
N
= 21) and report the prevalence, type and level of funding for educational research, perceived barriers to developing and conducting rigorous programs of educational research in nursing, and support required. The respondents reported conducting primarily descriptive studies, most of which were underfunded, as well as a variety of barriers to conducting programs of educational research. The findings from this study provide some initial insights into the state of nursing education science in the United States. Despite the small sample, the findings affirm the paucity of research in nursing education and that the discipline must attend to the developmental needs of nurse researchers who study phenomena related to nursing education.
Dutch Children's Perspectives on the Constructs of the Child Occupational Self-Assessment (COSA)
Authors: ten Velden Marjon , Couldrick Lorna , Kinébanian Astrid , Sadlo Gaynor
Published: August 2012

The claim for the Child Occupational Self-Assessment (COSA) is that children may share their sense of competence for, and value of, everyday occupations. To establish whether self-report items meet their purpose, assurances regarding construct validity depend not only on quantitative methodology but also on qualitative methods. This study aimed to reveal how Dutch children with special needs interpret the translated American COSA items, and whether their answers fit the intended meaning. Six 8- to 12-year-old Dutch children with special needs participated in the research. Data were collected via the Three-Step Test-Interview (cognitive interviewing) and analyzed using the constant comparative method. Results showed variations in children's interpretation, discrepancies between scores and stories, and translation inaccuracies. These data can be used to improve the Dutch COSA. Cognitive interviewing enhances both the construct validity of this self-assessment and the collaborative process of reasoning, decision making, and goal setting with a child during self-assessment.
ICOS-Expressing CD4 T Cells Induced via TLR4 in the Nasal Mucosa Are Capable of Inhibiting Experimental Allergic Asthma
Authors: Shalaby Karim H. , Jo Taisuke , Nakada Emily , Allard-Coutu Alexandra , Tsuchiya Kimitake , Hirota Nobuaki , Qureshi Salman T. , Maghni Karim , Rioux Clément R. , Martin James G.
Published: August 2012

Modulation of adaptive immune responses via the innate immune pattern recognition receptors, such as the TLRs, is an emerging strategy for vaccine development. We investigated whether nasal rather than intrapulmonary application of Protollin, a mucosal adjuvant composed of TLR2 and TLR4 ligands, is sufficient to elicit protection against murine allergic lower airway disease. Wild-type, Tlr2−/−, or Tlr4−/− BALB/c mice were sensitized to a birch pollen allergen extract (BPEx), then received either intranasal or intrapulmonary administrations of Protollin or Protollin admixed with BPEx, followed by consecutive daily BPEx challenges. Nasal application of Protollin or Protollin admixed with BPEx was sufficient to inhibit allergic lower airway disease with minimal collateral lung inflammation. Inhibition was dependent on TLR4 and was associated with the induction of ICOS in cells of the nasal mucosa and on both CD4+Foxp3+ and CD4+Foxp3− T cells of the draining lymph nodes (LNs), as well as their recruitment to the lungs. Adoptive transfer of cervical LN CD4+ICOS+, but not CD4+ICOS−, cells inhibited BPEx-induced airway hyperresponsiveness and bronchoalveolar lavage eosinophilia. Thus, our data indicate that expansion of resident ICOS-expressing CD4+ T cells of the cervical LNs by nasal mucosal TLR4 stimulation may inhibit the development of allergic lower airway disease in mice.
Dupuytren's Contracture in AlabamaHFEHemochromatosis Probands
Authors: Barton James C. , Barton J. Clayborn
Published: August 2012

Background

Dupuytren's contracture (DC) and HFE hemochromatosis occur in some of the same at-risk populations and present with similar comorbid conditions.

Methods

We estimated DC prevalence in two cohorts of white Alabama hemochromatosis probands (294 C282Y homozygotes, 67 C282Y/H63D compound heterozygotes) in a retrospective study. We performed logistic regressions on DC using the following independent variables: age, body mass index, heavy ethanol consumption, serum ferritin, elevated serum AST/ALT, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and diabetes.

Results

One man and two women with C282Y homozygosity had DC (prevalence 1.02%; 95% CI 0.35%–2.96%). A man with C282Y/H63D had DC (prevalence 1.49%; 95% CI 0.26%–7.98%). DC occurred as an autosomal dominant trait in his kinship. In regression analyses, no single variable predicted DC. We observed no new DC cases after the diagnosis of hemochromatosis (mean follow-up 12.9 ± 7.5 years (1 SD), and 9.0 ±5.1 years, respectively).

Conclusions

Our prevalence estimates of DC in white Alabama hemochromatosis probands are similar to those found in the white US population cohorts. DC risk was unrelated to the variables we studied.
Experimental and modeled UV erythemal irradiance under overcast conditions: the role of cloud optical depth
Authors: Antón M. , Alados-Arboledas L. , Guerrero-Rascado J. L. , Costa M. J. , Chiu J. C. , Olmo F.J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. This paper evaluates the relationship between the cloud modification factor (CMF) in the ultraviolet erythemal range and the cloud optical depth (COD) retrieved from the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) "cloud mode" algorithm under overcast cloudy conditions (confirmed with sky images) at Granada (Spain). Empirical CMF showed a clear exponential dependence on experimental COD values, decreasing approximately from 0.7 for COD = 10 to 0.25 for COD = 50. In addition, these COD measurements were used as input in the LibRadtran radiative transfer code allowing the simulation of CMF values for the selected overcast cases. The modeled CMF exhibited a dependence on COD similar to the empirical CMF, but modeled values present a strong underestimation with respect to the empirical factors (mean bias of 22%). To explain this high bias, an exhaustive comparison between modeled and experimental UV erythemal irradiance (UVER) data was performed. This exercise revealed that a significant part of the bias (~8%) may be related to code's overestimation of the experimental data for clear-sky conditions. The rest of the bias (~14%) may be attributed to the substantial underestimation of modeled UVER with respect to experimental UVER under overcast conditions, although the correlation between both dataset was high (R2 ~0.93). A sensitive test showed that the main responsible for that underestimation is the experimental AERONET COD used as input in the simulations, which has been retrieved from zenith radiances in the visible range. In this sense, effective COD in the erythemal interval were derived from an iteration procedure based on searching the best match between modeled and experimental UVER values for each selected overcast case. These effective COD values were smaller than AERONET COD data in about 80% of the overcast cases with a mean relative difference of 22%.
Variability of the Brewer-Dobson circulation's meridional and vertical branch using Aura/MLS water vapor
Authors: Flury T. , Wu D. L. , Read W. G.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. We use Aura/MLS stratospheric water vapor measurements to infer interannual variations in the speed of the Brewer-Dobson circulation (BDC) from 2004 to 2011. Stratospheric water vapor (H2O) is utilized as a tracer for dynamics and we follow its path along the vertical and meridional branch of the BDC from the tropics to mid-latitudes. We correlate one year time series of H2O in the lower stratosphere at two subsequent altitude levels (68 hPa, ~18.8 km and 56 hPa, ~19.9 km at the Equator) and determine the time lag for best correlation. The same calculation is made on the horizontal on the 100 hPa (~16.6 km) level by correlating the H2O time series at the Equator with the ones at 40° N and 40° S. From these lag coefficients we derive the vertical and horizontal speeds of the BDC in the tropics and extra-tropics respectively. We observe a clear interannual variability of the vertical and horizontal branch. The variability reflects signatures of the Quasi Biennial Oscillation (QBO). Our measurements confirm the QBO meridional circulation anomalies and show that the speed variations in the two branches of the BDC are out of phase and fairly well anti-correlated. Maximum ascent rates are found during the QBO easterly phase. We also find that the transport towards the Northern Hemisphere (NH) is on the average two times faster than to the Southern Hemisphere (SH) with a mean speed of 1.15 m s−1 at 100 hPa. Furthermore, the speed towards the NH shows much more variability with an amplitude of about 21% whilst the speed towards the SH varies by only 10%. An amplitude of 21% is also observed in the variability of the ascent rate at the Equator which is on the average 0.2 mm s−1 and hence about 5000 times slower than the meridional branch.
Long-term continuous atmospheric CO2 measurements at Baring Head, New Zealand
Authors: Brailsford G. W. , Stephens B. B. , Gomez A. J. , Riedel K. , Mikaloff Fletcher S. E. , Nichol S. E. , Manning M. R.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. We present a 39-yr record of continuous atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) observations made at Baring Head, New Zealand using a succession of infrared analyser instruments. We include descriptions of the in situ instrumentation, calibration procedures, intercomparison efforts, and data-filtering methods. Located on the southern coast of the North Island, Baring Head is exposed to extended periods of strong air flow from the south with minimal terrestrial influence resulting in low CO2 variability. The site is therefore well suited for sampling air masses that are representative of the Southern Ocean region. Instrumental precision is better than 0.015 ppm (1-σ) on 1-Hz values and comparisons to over 600 co-located flask samples, as well as laboratory based flask and cylinder comparison exercises, suggests that over recent decades compatibility with respect to the Scripps Institute of Oceanography (SIO) and World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) CO2 scales has been 0.3 ppm or better.
Emission-factor uncertainties in maritime transport in the Strait of Gibraltar, Spain
Authors: Moreno-Gutiérrez J. , Durán-Grados V. , Uriondo Z. , Ángel Llamas J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. A reliable and up-to-date maritime emission inventory is essential for atmospheric scientists quantifying the impact of shipping. The objective of this study is to estimate the atmospheric emissions of SO2, NOx, CO2 and PM10 by international merchant shipping in 2007 in the Strait of Gibraltar, Spain, including the Algeciras Bay by two methods. Two methods (both bottom-up) have been used in this study: 1. Establishing engine power-based emission factors (g kWh−1, EPA) or the mass of pollutant per work performed by the engine for each of the relevant components of the exhaust gas from diesel engines and power for each ship. 2. Establishing fuel-based emission factors (kg emitted/t of fuel) or mass of pollutant per mass of combusted fuel for each of the relevant components of the exhaust gas and a fuel-consumption inventory (IMO). In both methods, the means to estimate engine power and fuel-consumption inventories are the same. The exhaust from boilers and incinerators is regarded as a small contributor and excluded. In total, an estimated average of 1 389 111.05 t of CO2, 23 083.09 t of SO2, 32 005.63 t of NOx and 2972 t of PM10 were emitted from January 2007 until December 2007 by international and domestic shipping. The estimated total fuel consumption amounts to 437 405.84 t. The major differences between the estimates generated by the two methods are for NOx (16% in certain cases) and CO (up to 23%). A total difference for all compounds of 3038 t (approximately 2%) has been found between the two methods but it is not areasonable estimate of uncertainty. Therefore, the results for both methods may be considered acceptable because the actual uncontrolled deviations appear in the changes in emission factors that occur for a given engine with age. These deviations are often difficult to quantify and depend on individual shipboard service and maintenance routines. Emission factors for CO and NOx are not constant and depend on engine condition. For example, tests conducted by the authors of this paper demonstrate that when an engine operates under normal in-service conditions, the emissions are within limits. However, with a small fault in injection timing, the NOx emission exceeds the limits (30% higher value in some cases). A fault in the maintenance of the injection nozzles increases the CO emission (15% higher value in some cases).
Global stratospheric aerosol extinction profile retrievals from SCIAMACHY limb-scatter observations
Authors: Ernst F. , von Savigny C. , Rozanov A. , Rozanov V. , Eichmann K.-U. , Brinkhoff L. A. , Bovensmann H. , Burrows J. P.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Stratospheric aerosol extinction profiles are retrieved from SCIAMACHY/Envisat limb-scatter observations in the visible spectral range. The retrieval algorithm is based on a colour-index approach using the normalized limb-radiance profiles at 470 nm and 750 nm wavelength. The optimal estimation approach in combination with the radiative transfer model SCIATRAN is employed for the retrievals. This study presents a detailed description of the retrieval algorithm, and a sensitivity analysis investigating the impact of the most important parameters that affect the aerosol extinction profile retrieval accuracy. It is found that the parameter with the largest impact is surface albedo, particularly for SCIAMACHY observations in the Southern Hemisphere where the error in stratospheric aerosol extinction can be up to 50% if the surface albedo is not well known. The effect of errors in the assumed ozone and neutral density profiles on the aerosol profile retrievals is with generally less than 6% relatively small. The aerosol extinction profiles retrieved from SCIAMACHY are compared with co-located SAGE II solar occultation measurements of stratospheric aerosol extinction during the period 2003–2005. The mean aerosol extinction profiles averaged over all co-locations agree to within 20% between 15 and 35 km altitude. However, larger differences are observed at specific latitudes.