bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational modeling of shear deformation and failure of nanoscale hydrated calcium silicate hydrate in cement paste: Calcium silicate hydrate Jennite
Authors: Rivas Murillo John S , Mohamed Ahmed , Hodo Wayne , Mohan Ram V , Rajendran A , Valisetty R
Published: December 2015

Calcium silicate hydrate Jennite is a molecular structure commonly accepted as a representation of the complex calcium silicate hydrate gel formed during the hydration of typical Portland cement. In this paper, the behavior of nanoscale calcium silicate hydrate Jennite under shear deformation was investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. Computational samples representing the nanoscale structure of calcium silicate hydrate Jennite were subjected to shear deformation in order to investigate not only their mechanical properties but also their deformation behavior. The simulation results indicated that the nanoscale calcium silicate hydrate Jennite under shear deformation displays a linear elastic behavior up to shear stress of approximately 1.0 GPa, and shear deformation of about 0.08 radians, after which point yielding and plastic deformation occurs. The shear modulus determined from the simulations was 11.2 ± 0.7 GPa. The deformation-induced displacements in molecular structures were analyzed dividing the system in regions representing calcium oxide layers. The displacement/deformation of the layers of calcium oxide forming the structure of nanoscale calcium silicate hydrate Jennite was analyzed. The non-linear stress–strain behavior in the molecular structure was attributed to a non-linear increase in the displacement due to sliding of the calcium oxide layers on top of each other with higher shearing. These results support the idea that by controlling the chemical reactions, the tailored morphologies can be used to increase the interlinking between the calcium oxide layers, thus minimizing the shearing of the layers and leading to molecular structures that can withstand larger deformation and have improved failure behavior.
Deconsolidation of Public-Safety Agencies Providing Police and Fire Services
Authors: Wilson Jeremy M. , Grammich Clifford A.
Published: December 2015

In recent years, a growing number of communities have consolidated their police and fire agencies into a single “public-service” agency. Consolidation has appealed to communities seeking to achieve efficiency and cost-effectiveness, but resistance has arisen from organized labor and firefighters. Some communities have even begun to abandon the model. Exploring the reasons for disbanding can help cities considering the public-safety model determine whether it is right for them. Such analysis can also help cities that have already adopted the model understand what may cause it to falter. In this work, we analyze six case studies of public-safety agencies, chosen for their diversity in geography, date of consolidation and deconsolidation, form of consolidation, and other community characteristics. We explore their reasons for consolidation and deconsolidation in the context of broader police organizational research, particularly that regarding organizational theory, change, and performance. We place our findings in the context of structural contingency and institutional theories of organization, finding both to explain many of the reasons these organizations consolidated but later deconsolidated.
Improving Follow-Up Adherence in a Primary Eye Care Setting
Authors: Callinan Catherine E. , Kenney Brianna , Hark Lisa A. , Murchison Ann P. , Dai Yang , Leiby Benjamin E. , Mayro Eileen L. , Bilson Joseph , Haller Julia A.
Published: December 2015

Lack of patient adherence with eye appointments can decrease ocular outcomes. This prospective, randomized, single-blinded controlled study assessed the effectiveness of multiple interventions in improving follow-up adherence to recommended eye appointments. Patients due for follow-up appointments were randomly assigned to usual care, automated intervention, or personal intervention. Automated-intervention patients and personal-intervention patients received a call one month prior to the recommended follow-up date, and a mailed appointment reminder letter. The call was automated for automated-intervention patients and personalized for personal-intervention patients. The primary outcome was adherence to the follow-up appointment. The secondary outcome was rate of appointment scheduling. Patients in the personal-intervention group had greater adherence to follow-up recommendations (38%) than patients in the usual care group (28%) and the automated-intervention group (30%). Personal intervention significantly increased appointment scheduling (51%) over usual care (32%) and automated intervention (36%). These results support systems-level changes to improve patient follow-up adherence in urban primary eye care settings.
Adaptive Interventions and SMART Designs
Authors: Kidwell Kelley M. , Hyde Luke W.
Published: December 2015

Heterogeneity between and within people necessitates the need for sequential personalized interventions to optimize individual outcomes. Personalized or adaptive interventions (AIs) are relevant for diseases and maladaptive behavioral trajectories when one intervention is not curative and success of a subsequent intervention may depend on individual characteristics or response. AIs may be applied to medical settings and to investigate best prevention, education, and community-based practices. AIs can begin with low-cost or low-burden interventions and followed with intensified or alternative interventions for those who need it most. AIs that guide practice over the course of a disease, program, or school year can be investigated through sequential multiple assignment randomized trials (SMARTs). To promote the use of SMARTs, we provide a hypothetical SMART in a Head Start program to address child behavior problems. We describe the advantages and limitations of SMARTs, particularly as they may be applied to the field of evaluation.
A general vibration theory for constrained layer damping-treated thick sandwich structures
Authors: Huang Shyh-Chin , Tsai Chao-Yang , Liou Chiou-Lin
Published: December 2015

The vibration equations of a thick sandwich structure with a viscoelastic material core were derived. The host layer was assumed thick and the top layer could be thin or thick. This type of structures may apply to various cases and the particular application for which it fit is that of constrained layer damping treatment for vibration attenuating. The governing differential equations contained nine displacements for thick–thick surface layers. For cases of thin–thick, the number of displacement was significantly reduced to only five, which were one transverse displacement, two in-plane displacements, and two layer rotation angles, all associated with the host layer. The derived theory was general, and it could be not only specialized for many commonly seen structures such as beams, plates, and cylindrical shells but also degenerated into one- or two-layer structures. Specialization for a sandwich cylindrical shell was extensively illustrated, and numerical results of natural frequencies and damping were compared to those of thin shell theory. How each layer's thickness influenced the frequency and damping of the sandwich shell were particularly discussed.
Big data, organizational learning, and sensemaking: Theorizing interpretive challenges under conditions of dynamic complexity
Authors: Calvard Thomas Stephen
Published: December 2015

In this conceptual article, the relations between sensemaking, learning, and big data in organizations are explored. The availability and usage of big data by organizations is an issue of emerging importance, raising new and old themes for diverse commentators and researchers to investigate. Drawing on sensemaking, learning, and complexity perspectives, this article highlights four key challenges to be addressed if organizations are to engage the phenomenon of big data effectively and reflexively: responding to the dynamic complexity of big data in terms of “simplexity,” analyzing big data using interdisciplinary processes, responsible reflection on ideologies of learning and knowledge production when handling big data, and mutually aligning sensemaking with big data topics to map domains of application. This article concludes with additional implications arising from considering sensemaking in conjunction with big data analytics as a critical way of understanding unique aspects of learning and technology in the 21st century.
Reducing the circadian input from self-luminous devices using hardware filters and software applications
Authors: Escofet J , Bará S
Published: December 2015

The widespread use of self-luminous devices at nighttime (cell-phones, computers, and tablets) raises some reasonable concerns regarding their effects on human physiology. Light at night is a known circadian disruptor, particularly at short visible wavelengths, and it seems advisable to have practical tools for tailoring the spectral radiance of these displays. We analyse two possible strategies to achieve this goal, using hardware filters or software applications. Overall, software applications seem to offer, at the present time, the best trade-offs for controlling the light spectra emitted by existing devices. We submit that such tools should be included as a standard feature on any self-luminous device and that their default settings should be established according to the best available knowledge on the circadian effects of light.
Texas Nurse Staffing Trends Before and After Mandated Nurse Staffing Committees
Authors: Jones Terry , Heui Bae Sung , Murry Nicole , Hamilton Patti
Published: December 2015

This article describes the evolution of mandated nurse staffing committees in Texas from 2002 to 2009 and presents a study that analyzed nurse staffing trends in Texas using a secondary analysis of hospital staffing data ( N = 313 hospitals) from 2000 to 2012 obtained from the American Hospital Association Annual Survey. Nurse staffing patterns based on three staffing variables for registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs), and total licensed nurses were identified: full-time equivalents per 1,000 adjusted patient days, productive hours per adjusted patient day, and RN skill mix. Similar to national trends between 2000 and 2012, most Texas hospitals experienced an increase in RN and total nurse staffing, decrease in LVN staffing, and an increase in RN skill mix. The magnitude of total nurse staffing changes in Texas (5% increase) was smaller than national trends (13.6% increase). Texas's small, rural, government hospitals and those with the highest preregulation staffing levels experienced the least change in staffing between 2000 and 2012: median change of 0 to .13 full-time equivalents per 1,000 adjusted patient days and median change in productive hours per patient day of 0 to .23. The varying effects of staffing committees in different organizational contexts should be considered in future staffing legislative proposals and other policy initiatives.
Public Support for Sale
Authors: Miller Susan M.
Published: December 2015

Federal agencies award thousands of grants and contracts each year. Although we have considerable insight into the implications of these expenditures for politicians, we know little about their consequences for agencies. I develop a theory that links agency spending in citizens’ states to their support of agency performance, with the expectation that this relationship is conditioned by citizen–agency ideological congruence. I contend that agency spending serves as an information shortcut for citizens when evaluating agencies because it is often visible in a way that other agency activities, such as regulatory decisions, are not. When a citizen fundamentally supports the policies and projects an agency is funding, the positive effect of spending may be enhanced. I find support for these expectations. This article contributes to our understanding of the ways in which expenditures shape opinion toward agencies, which is important given the significance of public sentiment for an agency’s political survival.
Feline paraneoplastic alopecia associated with metastasising intestinal carcinoma
Authors: Grandt Lisa-Maria , Roethig Anja , Schroeder Sabrina , Koehler Kernt , Langenstein Judith , Thom Nina , Neiger Reto
Published: December 2015

Case summary

A 10-year-old male neutered British Shorthair cat was presented with a 6 month history of lethargy, weight loss and alopecia. Clinical examination revealed widespread alopecia of the ventral abdomen and hindlimbs. The skin in these areas was smooth and shiny and hairs could be easily epilated. Spontaneous pruritus was observed. Cytological examination of superficial impression smears showed a severe Malassezia species dermatitis and pyoderma. Ectoparasites could not be detected and no sign of dermatophytosis was visible in trichograms and Wood’s lamp analysis. Abdominal ultrasound found a focally thickened wall of the large intestine and multiple nodules in the liver. Fine-needle aspirates from lymph nodes, liver and altered colonic wall were consistent with an undifferentiated malignant neoplasia. The cat was euthanased at the owners’ request, owing to potential neoplasia with metastatic spread. At necropsy a metastasising carcinoma of the colonic wall was found, as well as a paraneoplastic alopecia.

Relevance and novel information

Feline paraneoplastic alopecia has been reported in association with pancreatic carcinoma, bile duct carcinoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as with neuroendocrine pancreatic carcinoma and hepatosplenic plasma cell tumour. This is the first reported case of feline paraneoplastic alopecia associated with a colon carcinoma.
Mitochondrial group I and group II introns in the sponge orders Agelasida and Axinellida
Authors: Huchon Dorothée , Szitenberg Amir , Shefer Sigal , Ilan Micha , Feldstein Tamar
Published: December 2015

Background

Self-splicing introns are present in the mitochondria of members of most eukaryotic lineages. They are divided into Group I and Group II introns, according to their secondary structure and splicing mechanism. Being rare in animals, self-splicing introns were only described in a few sponges, cnidarians, placozoans and one annelid species. In sponges, three types of mitochondrial Group I introns were previously described in two demosponge families (Tetillidae, and Aplysinellidae) and in the homoscleromorph family Plakinidae. These three introns differ in their insertion site, secondary structure and in the sequence of the LAGLIDADG gene they encode. Notably, no group II introns have been previously described in sponges.

Results

We report here the presence of mitochondrial introns in the cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene of three additional sponge species from three different families: Agelas oroides (Agelasidae, Agelasida), Cymbaxinella
p
verrucosa (Hymerhabdiidae, Agelasida) and Axinella polypoides (Axinellidae, Axinellida). We show, for the first time, that sponges can also harbour Group II introns in their COI gene, whose presence in animals’ mitochondria has so far been described in only two phyla, Placozoa and Annelida. Surprisingly, two different Group II introns were discovered in the COI gene of C. verrucosa. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the Group II introns present in C. verrucosa are related to red algae (Rhodophyta) introns.

Conclusions

The differences found among intron secondary structures and the phylogenetic inferences support the hypothesis that the introns originated from independent horizontal gene transfer events. Our results thus suggest that self-splicing introns are more diverse in the mitochondrial genome of sponges than previously anticipated.
Transplantation of hESC-derived hepatocytes protects mice from liver injury
Authors: Tolosa Laia , Caron Jérôme , Hannoun Zara , Antoni Marc , López Silvia , Burks Deborah , Castell Jose Vicente , Weber Anne , Gomez-Lechon Maria-Jose , Dubart-Kupperschmitt Anne
Published: December 2015

Background

Hepatic cell therapy has become a viable alternative to liver transplantation for life-threatening liver diseases. However, the supply of human hepatocytes is limited due to the shortage of suitable donor organs required to isolate high-quality cells. Human pluripotent stem cells reflect a potential renewable source for generating functional hepatocytes. However, most differentiation protocols use undefined matrices or factors of animal origin; as such, the resulting hepatocytes are not Good Manufacturing Practice compliant. Moreover, the preclinical studies employed to assess safety and function of human embryonic stem cell (hESC)-derived hepatocytes are generally limited to immunodeficient mice. In the present study, we evaluate the generation of hepatocytes under defined conditions using a European hESC line (VAL9) which was derived under animal-free conditions. The function capacity of VAL9-derived hepatocytes was assessed by transplantation into mice with acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure, a clinically relevant model.

Methods

We developed a protocol that successfully differentiates hESCs into bipotent hepatic progenitors under defined conditions, without the use of chromatin modifiers such as dimethyl sulphoxide. These progenitors can be cryopreserved and are able to generate both committed precursors of cholangiocytes and neonate-like hepatocytes.

Results

Thirty days post-differentiation, hESCs expressed hepatocyte-specific markers such as asialoglycoprotein receptor and hepatic nuclear factors including HNF4α. The cells exhibited properties of mature hepatocytes such as urea secretion and UGT1A1 and cytochrome P450 activities. When transplanted into mice with acetaminophen-induced acute liver failure, a model of liver damage, the VAL9-derived hepatocytes efficiently engrafted and proliferated, repopulating up to 10 % of the liver. In these transplanted livers, we observed a significant decrease of liver transaminases and found no evidence of tumourigenicity. Thus, VAL9-derived hepatocytes were able to rescue hepatic function in acetaminophen-treated animals.

Conclusions

Our study reveals an efficient protocol for differentiating VAL9 hESCs to neonatal hepatocytes which are then able to repopulate livers in vivo without tumour induction. The human hepatocytes are able to rescue liver function in mice with acetaminophen-induced acute toxicity. These results provide proof-of-concept that replacement therapies using hESC-derived hepatocytes are effective for treating liver diseases.
Ototoxicity of acetic acid on the guinea pig cochlea
Authors: Yamano Takafumi , Higuchi Hitomi , Nakagawa Takashi , Morizono Tetsuo
Published: December 2015

Background

To evaluate the ototoxicity of acetic acid solutions.

Methods

Compound action potentials (CAPs) of the eighth nerve were measured in guinea pigs before and after the application of acetic acid in the middle ear cavity. The pH values of the acetic acid solutions were pH 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0, and the application times were 30 min, 24 h, and 1 week.

Results

Acetic acid solution (pH 3.0, N = 3) for 30 min caused no significant elevation in CAP threshold at 4 kHz, but a significant elevation in the threshold was noted for 8 kHz and clicks. Acetic acid solutions (pH 4.0  N = 6, 5.0  N = 5) for 30 min caused no significant elevation in CAP. Acetic acid solution (pH 4.0) for 24 h ( N = 5) caused significant elevations of the CAP threshold for 8 kHz, 4 kHz, and for clicks. Acetic acid (pH 5.0) for 24 h ( N = 3) caused a significant elevation of the CAP threshold for 4 kHz, but not for 8 kHz or clicks. Acetic acid (pH 5.0) for 1 week ( N = 3) caused a small but significant elevation CAP the threshold for 8 kHz and 4 kHz tone bursts, but no significant change was noted for clicks.

Conclusions

We found a significant toxic effect of acetic acid in guinea pigs on eighth-nerve compound action potentials when the pH was 5.0 or lower. Clearly, the stronger the acidity, and longer the exposure time, the more the CAP threshold was elevated.
At the Bedside: Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) as targets for biomarkers and therapies in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Barnado April , Crofford Leslie J , Oates Jim C
Published: December 2015

Neutrophil extracellular traps are associated with a unique form of cell death distinct from apoptosis or necrosis, whereby invading microbes are trapped and killed. Neutrophil extracellular traps can contribute to autoimmunity by exposing autoantigens, inducing IFN-α production, and activating the complement system. The association of neutrophil extracellular traps with autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus, will be reviewed. Increased neutrophil extracellular trap formation is seen in psoriasis, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Neutrophil extracellular traps may promote thrombus formation in antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. In systemic lupus erythematosus, increased neutrophil extracellular trap formation is associated with increased disease activity and renal disease, suggesting that neutrophil extracellular traps could be a disease activity marker. Neutrophil extracellular traps can damage and kill endothelial cells and promote inflammation in atherosclerotic plaques, which may contribute to accelerated atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus. As neutrophil extracellular traps induce IFN-α production, measuring neutrophil extracellular traps may estimate IFN-α levels and identify which systemic lupus erythematosus patients have elevated levels and may be more likely to respond to emerging anti-IFN-α therapies. In addition to anti-IFN-α therapies, other novel agents, such as N-acetyl-cysteine, DNase I, and peptidylarginine deiminase inhibitor 4, target neutrophil extracellular traps. Neutrophil extracellular traps offer insight into the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and provide promise in developing disease markers and novel therapeutic agents in systemic lupus erythematosus. Priority areas for basic research based on clinical research insights will be identified, specifically the potential role of neutrophil extracellular traps as a biomarker and therapeutic target in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Aberrant TGFβ Signaling Contributes to Altered Trophoblast Differentiation in Preeclampsia
Authors: Xu Jing , Sivasubramaniyam Tharini , Yinon Yoav , Tagliaferro Andrea , Ray Jocelyn , Nevo Ori , Post Martin , Caniggia Isabella
Published: December 2015

TGFβ has been implicated in preeclampsia, but its intracellular signaling via phosphorylated mothers against decapentaplegic (SMADs) and SMAD-independent proteins in the placenta remains elusive. Here we show that TGFβ receptor-regulated SMAD2 was activated (Ser465/467 phosphorylation) in syncytiotrophoblast and proliferating extravillous trophoblast cells of first-trimester placenta, whereas inhibitory SMAD7 located primarily to cytotrophoblast cells. SMAD2 phosphorylation decreased with advancing gestation, whereas SMAD7 expression increased and shifted to syncytiotrophoblasts toward term. Additionally, we found that the TGFβ SMAD-independent signaling via partitioning defective protein 6 (PARD6)/Smad ubiquitylation regulatory factor was activated at approximately 10–12 weeks of gestation in cytotrophoblast and extravillous trophoblast cells comprising the anchoring column. Placentae from early-onset, but not late-onset, preeclampsia exhibited elevated SMAD2 phosphorylation and SMAD7 levels. Whereas PARD6 expression increased and SMURF1 levels decreased in preeclamptic placentae, their association increased. SMAD2 phosphorylation by TGFβ in villous explants and BeWo cells resulted in a reduction of Glial cell missing-1 (GCM1) and fusogenic protein syncytin-1 while increasing cell cycle regulators cyclin E-1 (CCNE1) and cyclin-dependent kinase 4. SMAD7 abrogated the proliferative effects of TGFβ. CCNE1 levels were increased in preeclamptic placentae, whereas GCM1 was markedly reduced. In addition, TGFβ treatment increased the association of PARD6 and SMURF1 and down-regulated Ras homolog gene family, member A (RHOA) GTPase in JEG3 cells. In a wound assay, TGFβ treatment increased the association of PARD6 and SMURF1 and triggered JEG3 cell migration through increased cellular protrusions. Taken together, our data indicate that TGFβ signaling via both SMAD2/7 and PARD6/SMURF1 pathways plays a role in trophoblast growth and differentiation. Altered SMAD regulation of GCM1 and CCNE1 and aberrant expression/activation of PARD6/SMURF1 may contribute to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia by affecting cellular pathways associated with this disorder.
Regeneration in the Pituitary After Cell-Ablation Injury: Time-Related Aspects and Molecular Analysis
Authors: Willems Christophe , Fu Qiuli , Roose Heleen , Mertens Freya , Cox Benoit , Chen Jianghai , Vankelecom Hugo
Published: December 2015

We recently showed that the mouse pituitary holds regenerative competence. Young-adult GHCre/iDTR mice, expressing diphtheria toxin (DT) receptor in GH-producing cells, regenerate the GH+ cells, as ablated by 3-day DT treatment (3DT), up to 60% after 5 months. The pituitary's stem cells participate in this restoration process. Here, we characterized this regenerative capacity in relation to age and recovery period and started to search for underlying molecular mechanisms. Extending the recovery period (up to 19 mo) does not result in higher regeneration levels. In addition, the regenerative competence disappears at older age, coinciding with a reduction in pituitary stem cell number and fitness. Surprisingly, prolonging DT treatment of young-adult mice to 10 days (10DT) completely blocks the regeneration, although the stem cell compartment still reacts by promptly expanding, and retains in vitro stem cell functionality. To obtain a first broad view on molecular grounds underlying reparative capacity and/or failure, the stem cell-clustering side population was analyzed by whole-genome expression analysis. A number of stemness factors and components of embryonic, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, growth factor and Hippo pathways are higher expressed in the stem cell-clustering side population of the regenerating pituitary (after 3DT) when compared with the basal gland and to the nonregenerating pituitary (after 10DT). Together, the regenerative capacity of the pituitary is limited both in age-related terms and final efficacy, and appears to rely on stem cell-associated pathway activation. Dissection of the molecular profiles may eventually identify targets to induce or boost regeneration in situations of (injury-related) pituitary deficiency.
Minimally Invasive Transpalpebral Endoscopic-Assisted Amygdalohippocampectomy
Authors: Mandel Mauricio , Figueiredo Eberval Gadelha , Mandel Suzana Abramovicz , Tutihashi Rafael , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: December 2015

BACKGROUND: Although anterior temporal lobectomy may be a definitive surgical treatment for epileptic patients with mesial temporal sclerosis, it often results in verbal, visual, and cognitive dysfunction. Studies have consistently reported the advantages of selective procedures compared with a standard anterior temporal lobectomy, mainly in terms of neuropsychological outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a new technique to perform a selective amygdalohippocampectomy (SAH) through a transpalpebral approach with endoscopic assistance.

METHODS: A mini fronto-orbitozygomatic craniotomy through an eyelid incision was performed in 8 patients. Both a microscope and neuroendoscope were used in the surgeries. An anterior SAH was performed in 5 patients who had the diagnosis of temporal lobe epilepsy with mesial temporal sclerosis. One patient had a mesial temporal lesion suggesting a ganglioglioma. Two patients presented mesial temporal cavernomas with seizures originating from the temporal lobe.

RESULTS: The anterior approach allowed removal of the amygdala and hippocampus. The image-guided system and postoperative evaluation confirmed that the amygdala may be accessed and completely removed through this route. The hippocampus was partially resected. All patients have discontinued medication with no more epileptic seizures. The patients with cavernomas and ganglioglioma also had their lesions completely removed. One-year follow-up has shown no visible scars.

CONCLUSION: The anterior route for SAH is a rational and direct approach to the mesial temporal lobe. Anterior SAH is a safe, less invasive procedure that provides early identification of critical vascular and neural structures in the basal cisterns. The transpalpebral approach provides a satisfactory cosmetic outcome.
Typification of the Linnaean name Doronicum bellidiastrum (Asteraceae)
Authors: Iamonico Duilio , Hjertson Mats
Published: December 2015

A lectotype is designated for the Linnaean name Doronicum bellidiastrum using material from LINN.
Strategies to implement the recommendations of the Francis report
Authors: Birch Lucy
Published: December 2015

This article discusses some of the challenges managers and leaders face, when implementing changes based on the recommendations set out by The Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry, which encouraged staff to report concerns and implement stronger leadership. Challenges to these recommendations will be explored, including the current organisational culture within the NHS and effective interprofessional working. Managerial strategies to combat these challenges will be discussed, including the use of standardised guidelines, clinical supervision and annual appraisals. Furthermore, positive leadership strategies to overcomes these challenges will be analysed, including leadership styles, desired characteristics and training programmes available to health professionals. This article proposes positive strategies for organisations and individual health professionals to implement changes to enhance quality of care.
Educational programmes: Saving money in healthcare
Authors: Zafiropoulos George
Published: December 2015

The Six Sigma methodology was used in a district general hospital to assess the effect of quality in the introduction of an educational programme following a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis, with the goal to improve and control the hospital's budget by limiting unnecessary admissions. Pareto analysis was carried out on these findings. The resulting data were analysed indicating that the use of the Six Sigma methodology was favoured—the Six Sigma value increased from 1.2 to 3.9 producing a 99.07% yield (initial yield was 86.62%). In conclusion, this study argues that the Six Sigma methodology is an acceptable tool which can be used to improve the performance of a hospital department. It is also improves the effectiveness and performance of health workers without compromising patient safety or the quality of the service. It also helps in meeting the goals of all stakeholders and reduce the hospital's expenditure, thus saving public money from the yearly budget.
The dorso–ventro debate: in search of empirical evidence
Authors: Brown Joe , Gillespie Mark , Chard Simon
Published: December 2015

Identification of safe injections sites is a skill practised routinely by nurses, which, as with all nursing practice, is informed by empirical evidence. Despite this, discussion as to whether the dorsogluteal site should be eradicated from nursing practice in favour of the ventrogluteal site shows no sign of abating. Review of commonly cited evidence in this debate aimed to identify the validity of excluding the dorsogluteal site in favour of the ventrogluteal site by investigating the empirical evidence, which routinely informs this decision. Empirical evidence suggests a case to exclude the dorsogluteal site for children under age 10 for fear of damaging the sciatic nerve, but not so for adults. Recommendations are made for conclusive research into the viability of the dorsogluteal site and an authoritative decision based on empirical evidence, not hearsay, with regard to its continuance or eradication from nursing practice.
NHS generic project: response from the wound care community
Authors: Kerr Anthony , Guest Julian F , Vowden Peter ,   Wound Care Alliance Trustees, White Richard , Bowen Graham ,   Surgical Dressing Manufacturers Association, Iversen C , Anderson Richard
Published: December 2015

This series of letters outlines the response from MA Healthcare, key opinion leaders and industry to the news that the Government is planning to introduce a generic project for wound dressings
Improving and protecting standards of care in England
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: December 2015

Emeritus professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses the launch of the latest Care Quality Commission report, which describes the state of health care and adult social care in England during the period 2014/15
Calling into question the NHS approach to patient safety
Authors: Tingle John
Published: December 2015

In a two-part column John Tingle discusses the Health Foundation's recent report on changing the NHS approach to patient safety. Part one looks at the first part of the report: the case for change
Latest developments
Authors: Webb Penny
Published: December 2015

Send your letters, news stories or latest developments to: The Editor, Child Care, St Jude's Church, Dulwich Road, Herne Hill, London, SE24 0PB email: childcare@markallengroup.com
What we need to know
Authors: Webb Penny
Published: December 2015

The government is constantly telling us that we must promote school readiness, but what does this mean and what must children ‘know’ at each stage of their learning journey?
Treating eczema in the older person in primary care
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: December 2015

Nurse prescribers are in a good position to notice the skin changes of elderly people under their care. Patients with eczema problems should be advised to avoid drying the skin, to moisturize the skin with emollients, and, where necessary, to use topical corticosteroids to calm eczematous flare-ups. Nurse prescribers should also treat bacterial infections accompanying eczema, but in severe cases medical advice and/or hospital admission should be considered.
Staff and patient views on nurse prescribing in the urgent-care setting
Authors: Armstrong Amanda
Published: December 2015

This article focuses on nurse prescribing in the urgent-care setting in a busy hospital over a 2-day period. Using the Ritchie and Spencer framework, the views of patients, emergency nurse practitioners, an independent nurse prescriber, a medical consultant and a pharmacist were analysed. All respondents were positive about nurse prescribing, although there were concerns over increased workloads for prescribing nurses. Patients were comfortable accepting prescriptions from nurses and were pleased with the speed of the service. The senior doctor saw the expansion of the nurse's role as a logical progression for senior specialist nurses working in urgent care.
Otiorhynchus (Tecutinus) lefkaoriensis sp. nov. from Crete, Greece (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Entiminae)
Authors: Germann Christoph , Colonnelli Enzo
Published: December 2015

Otiorhynchus (Tecutinus) lefkaoriensis sp. nov. from the Lefka Ori mountains in Chania province of Crete Island is described and illustrated. The new species belongs in the kindermanni Stierlin, 1861 species group and represents the first certain discovery of a member of the subgenus Tecutinus Reitter, 1912 outside Western Asia.
Classes of generalized Weingarten surfaces in the Euclidean 3-space
Authors: Dias Diogo G. , Corro Armando M. V.
Published: December 2015

We present surfaces with prescribed normal Gaussmap. These surfaces are obtained as the envelope of a sphere congruencewhere the other envelope is contained in a plane. We introduce classes of surfaces that generalize linear Weingarten surfaces, where the coefficients are functions that depend on the support function and the distance function from a fixed point (in short, DSGW-surfaces). The linear Weingarten surfaces, Appell’s surfaces and Tzitzeica’s surfaces are all DSGW-surfaces. From them we obtain new classes of DSGWsurfaces applying inversions, dilatations and parallel surfaces. For a special class of DSGW-surfaces, which is invariant under dilatations and inversions, we obtain a Weierstrass type representation (in short, EDSG Wsurfaces). As applications we classify the EDSGW-surfaces of rotation and present a 2-parameter family of complete cyclic EDSGW-surfaces with an isolated singularity and foliated by non-parallel planes.
Solar Drying Kinetics of Cass Ava Slices in a Mixed Flow Dryer
Authors: Dairo Olawale Usman , Aderinlewo Adewole Ayobami , Adeosun Olayemi Johnson , Ola Ibukun Adekola , Salaudeen Tolulope
Published: December 2015

Drying characteristics of cassava slices was investigated in a mixed mode natural convection solar dryer to obtain a suitable mathematical model describing the drying. The average drying chamber temperature was between 34 ±2 °C and 50 ±1.8 °C, while 10 commonly used thin layer drying models were used for drying curve modelling. Coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) were used to determine the models performances. The drying curve of cassava slices showed a reduction of moisture content with increased drying time in the solar dryer, and the variation of moisture ratio exponentially decreased with increased drying time. The Midilli and Logarithmic models showed better fit to the experimental drying data of cassava slices. As compared with other models tested, there were no significant differences (p >0.05) in the R2 values obtained for the Midilli and Logarithmic models; hence, the Logarithmic model was preferable because of the lower RMSE. The diffusion mechanism could be used to describe the drying of cassava slices that was found to be in the falling rate period. A diffusion coefficient (Deff) of 1.22 × 10-8 m2 s-1 was obtained, which was within the established standard for food products.
The use of outlier detection methods in the log-normal distribution for the identification of atypical varietal experiments
Authors: Kornacki Andrzej , Bochniak Andrzej
Published: December 2015

In this study the Akaike information criterion for detecting outliers in a log-normal distribution is used. Theoretical results were applied to the identification of atypical varietal trials. This is an alternative to the tolerance interval method. Detection of outliers with the help of the Akaike information criterion represents an alternative to the method of testing hypotheses. This approach does not depend on the level of significance adopted by the investigator. It also does not lead to the masking effect of outliers.
Current mode sigma-delta modulator designed with the help of transistor’s size optimization tool
Authors: Śniatała P. , Naumowicz M. , Handkiewicz A. , Szczęsny S. , Melo J.L.A. de , Paulino N. , Goes J.
Published: December 2015

The paper presents a second order current mode sigma-delta modulator designed with the help of a new elaborated tool to optimize the transistor sizes. The circuit is composed of two continuous time loop filters, a current comparator and a one bit DAC with a current output. The resulting circuit, designed in a 65 nm 1.2 V CMOS technology, has a bandwidth of 2 MHz for a clock frequency of 250 MHz. The electrical simulation results show that it achieves a maximum signal-to-noise-plus-distortion ratio (SNDR) of 53.6 dB while dissipating 93 μW, which corresponds to an efficiency of 59.7 fJ/conv. The fully current mode structure makes the circuit suitable to be applied in a current mode signal processing like biosensors or image pixels arrays.
Discretization of data using Boolean transformations and information theory based evaluation criteria
Authors: Jankowski C. , Reda D. , Mańkowski M. , Borowik G.
Published: December 2015

Discretization is one of the most important parts of decision table preprocessing. Transforming continuous values of attributes into discrete intervals influences further analysis using data mining methods. In particular, the accuracy of generated predictions is highly dependent on the quality of discretization. The paper contains a description of three new heuristic algorithms for discretization of numeric data, based on Boolean reasoning. Additionally, an entropy-based evaluation of discretization is introduced to compare the results of the proposed algorithms with the results of leading university software for data analysis. Considering the discretization as a data compression method, the average compression ratio achieved for databases examined in the paper is 8.02 while maintaining the consistency of databases at 100%.
The average time complexity of probabilistic algorithms for finding generators in finite cyclic groups
Authors: Adamski T. , Nowakowski W.
Published: December 2015

Generators of finite cyclic groups play important role in many cryptographic algorithms like public key ciphers, digital signatures, entity identification and key agreement algorithms. The above kinds of cryptographic algorithms are crucial for all secure communication in computer networks and secure information processing (in particular in mobile services, banking and electronic administration). In the paper, proofs of correctness of two probabilistic algorithms (for finding generators of finite cyclic groups and primitive roots) are given along with assessment of their average time computational complexity.
Updating the Nomographical Diagrams for Dimensioning the Beams
Authors: Pop Maria T.
Published: December 2015

In order to reduce the time period needed for structures design it is strongly recommended to use nomographical diagrams. The base for formation and updating the nomographical diagrams, stands on the charts presented by different technical publications. The updated charts use the same algorithm and calculation elements as the former diagrams in accordance to the latest prescriptions and European standards. The result consists in a chart, having the same properties, similar with the nomogragraphical diagrams already in us. As a general conclusion, even in our days, the nomographical diagrams are very easy to use. Taking into consideration the value of the moment it’s easy to find out the necessary reinforcement area and vice-verse, having the reinforcement area you can find out the capable moment. It still remains a useful opportunity for pre-sizing and designs the reinforced concrete sections.
Variscan thrusting in I- and S-type granitic rocks of the Tribeč Mountains, Western Carpathians (Slovakia): evidence from mineral compositions and monazite dating
Authors: Broska Igor , Petrík Igor
Published: December 2015

The Tribeč granitic core (Tatric Superunit, Western Carpathians, Slovakia) is formed by Devonian/Lower Carboniferous, calc-alkaline I- and S-type granitic rocks and their altered equivalents, which provide a rare opportunity to study the Variscan magmatic, post-magmatic and tectonic evolution. The calculatedP-T-Xpath of I-type granitic rocks, based on Fe-Ti oxides, hornblende, titanite and mica-bearing equilibria, illustrates changes in redox evolution. There is a transition from magmatic stage atTca. 800–850 °C and moderate oxygen fugacity (FMQ buffer) to an oxidation event at 600 °C between HM and NNO up to the oxidation peak at 480 °C and HM buffer, to the final reduction at ca. 470 °C at ΔNN= 3.3. Thus, the post-magmatic Variscan history recorded in I-type tonalites shows at early stage pronounced oxidation and low temperature shift back to reduction. The S-type granites originated at temperature 700–750 °C at lower water activity and temperature. TheP-Tconditions of mineral reactions in altered granitoids at Variscan time (both I and S-types) correspond to greenschist facies involving formation of secondary biotite. The Tribeč granite pluton recently shows horizontal and vertical zoning: from the west side toward the east S-type granodiorites replace I-type tonalites and these medium/coarse-grained granitoids are vertically overlain by their altered equivalents in greenschist facies. Along the Tribeč mountain ridge, younger undeformed leucocratic granite dykes in age 342±4.4 Ma cut these metasomatically altered granitic rocks and thus post-date the alteration process. The overlaying sheet of the altered granites is in a low-angle superposition on undeformed granitoids and forms “a granite duplex” within Alpine Tatric Superunit, which resulted from a syn-collisional Variscan thrusting event and melt formation ~340 Ma. The process of alteration may have been responsible for shifting the oxidation trend to the observed partial reduction.
A review of magnetostratigraphic results from the Tithonian–Berriasian of Nordvik (Siberia) and possible biostratigraphic constraints
Authors: Schnabl Petr , Pruner Petr , Wimbledon William A.P.
Published: December 2015

In this contribution we examine and discuss recently published magnetostratigraphic data from the Nordvik section (north Siberia) around the Tithonian–Berriasian (J/K) boundary, with a special emphasis on calibration with biostratigraphy and the reliability of both the fossil and magnetic records, as well as sedimentation rates. Specifically, we discuss original new interpretations by Bragin et al. (2013) and the commentary on that work by Guzhikov (2013). We consider some limitations of the Nordvik section, and conclude that the base of M18r, because it is in a condensed part of the sequence, makes a poor contender for precise long-range correlation. We discuss the lack of ammonites at several magnetozone boundaries, and whether the bases of the local zones of Craspedites taimyrensis and Arctoteuthis tehamaensis can be used to bracket the correlative horizon of Calpionella alpina, a widespread marker in the middle of M19n.2n in Tethys.
Cable-Stayed Cantilever Structures As An Expat Of Unique Application In The Construction Of A Building Located In Seismic Area – An Author’s Project Of Multifunctional Building In Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: Grębowski K. , Werdon M.
Published: December 2015

The article presents numerical simulations for the modelling of seismic impact on the structure of unique cantilever cablestayed structure with the application of two methods. The Response Spectrum method, in which a spectrum of the structure’s responses to an earthquake’s impact is generated, and the Accelerogram method, in which we generate dynamic load in the form of a diagram of the connection between acceleration and time for the actual readings during a real earthquake. Both methods have been presented for the El Centro earthquake spectrum. This unique application of a cantilever cablestayed structure in public buildings will allow to assess the safety of this kind of load-bearing system in areas of increased risk of seismic activity. Cantilever cablestayed structures have so far never been designed or analyzed on seismically active areas. Based on numerical simulation we determined the effect of stiffness of load-bearing lines on the increase of stresses and displacements at cable stays joint with the end of the cantilever part of a building.
The Importance Of The Law Of The Wall
Authors: Mandal B.C. , Mazumdar H.P.
Published: December 2015

This paper reports some results of turbulent boundary layer computation. The calculation is made assuming that law of the wall is valid throughout the boundary layer. Simple relations are proposed for friction for a smooth pipe and a flat plate at zero incidence. The results are compared with recent measurements. Encouraging results are obtained for both the cases of flows.