bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An exploration of risk for recurrent falls in two geriatric care settings
Authors: Tariq Humeira , Kloseck Marita , Crilly Richard G , Gutmanis Iris , Gibson Maggie
Published: October 2013

Background

Fall events were examined in two distinct geriatric populations to identify factors associated with repeat fallers, and to examine whether patients who use gait aids, specifically a walker, were more likely to experience repeat falls. Each unit already had a generic program for falls prevention in place.

Methods

Secondary data analysis was conducted on information collected during the pilot testing of a new quality assurance Incident Reporting Tool between October 2006 and September 2008. The study settings included an in-patient geriatric rehabilitation unit (GRU) and a long stay veterans’ unit (LSVU) in a rehabilitation and long-stay hospital in Ontario. Participants were two hundred and twenty three individuals, aged 65 years or older on these two units, who experienced one or more fall incidents during the study period.

Results

Logistic regression analyses showed that on the GRU age was significantly associated with repeat falls. On the LSVU first falls in the morning or late evening were associated with repeat falling. Walker as a gait aid listed at time of first fall was not associated with repeat falls.

Conclusions

This study suggests that different intervention may be necessary in different geriatric settings to identify, for secondary prevention, certain individuals for which the generic programs prove inadequate. Information collection with a specific focus on the issue of repeat falls may be necessary for greater insight.
Exogenous surfactant therapy in 2013: what is next? who, when and how should we treat newborn infants in the future?
Authors: Lopez Emmanuel , Gascoin Géraldine , Flamant Cyril , Merhi Mona , Tourneux Pierre , Baud Olivier ,   for the French Young Neonatologist Club
Published: October 2013

Background

Surfactant therapy is one of the few treatments that have dramatically changed clinical practice in neonatology. In addition to respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), surfactant deficiency is observed in many other clinical situations in term and preterm infants, raising several questions regarding the use of surfactant therapy.

Objectives

This review focuses on several points of interest, including some controversial or confusing topics being faced by clinicians together with emerging or innovative concepts and techniques, according to the state of the art and the published literature as of 2013. Surfactant therapy has primarily focused on RDS in the preterm newborn. However, whether this treatment would be of benefit to a more heterogeneous population of infants with lung diseases other than RDS needs to be determined. Early trials have highlighted the benefits of prophylactic surfactant administration to newborns judged to be at risk of developing RDS. In preterm newborns that have undergone prenatal lung maturation with steroids and early treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the criteria for surfactant administration, including the optimal time and the severity of RDS, are still under discussion. Tracheal intubation is no longer systematically done for surfactant administration to newborns. Alternative modes of surfactant administration, including minimally-invasive and aerosolized delivery, could thus allow this treatment to be used in cases of RDS in unstable preterm newborns, in whom the tracheal intubation procedure still poses an ethical and medical challenge.

Conclusion

The optimization of the uses and methods of surfactant administration will be one of the most important challenges in neonatal intensive care in the years to come.
Evaluation of drinking patterns and their impact on alcohol-related aggression: a national survey of adolescent behaviours
Authors: Siciliano Valeria , Mezzasalma Lorena , Lorenzoni Valentina , Pieroni Stefania , Molinaro Sabrina
Published: October 2013

Background

Although there have been a wide range of epidemiological studies examining the impact of patterns of alcohol consumption among adolescents, there remains considerable variability in both defining these patterns and the ability to comprehensively evaluate their relationship to behavioural patterns. This study explores a new procedure for defining and evaluating drinking patterns and integrating well-established indicators. The composite measure is then used to estimate the impact of these patterns on alcohol-related aggressive behaviour among Italian adolescents.

Methods

Data were collected as part of the 2011 European School Survey Project on Alcohol and other Drugs (ESPAD). A national sample of 14,199 students aged 15–19 years was collected using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire completed in a classroom setting. Drinking patterns were established using principal component analysis. Alcohol-related aggression was analysed as to its relationship to patterns of drinking, behaviour of friends towards alcohol use, substance use/abuse, school performance, family relationships and leisure activities.

Results

Several specific drinking patterns were identified: “Drinking to Excess” (DE), “Drinking with Intoxication” (DI) and “Drinking but Not to Excess” (DNE). A higher percentage of males were involved in alcohol-related aggression compared with females. In males, the DE and DI patterns significantly increased the likelihood of alcohol-related aggression, whereas the DNE pattern was negatively associated. Similar results were found in females, although the DI pattern was not significantly associated with alcohol-related aggression. Overall, cigarette smoking, illegal drug use, truancy, limited parental monitoring, frequent evenings spent outside of the home and peer influence associated strongly with alcohol-related aggression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that drinking patterns, as uniquely monitored with an integrated metric, can: 1) explain drinking habits better than commonly used indicators of alcohol use and 2) provide a better understanding of behavioural risks such as alcohol-related aggression. Environmental background also appears to strongly associate with this type of aggressive behaviour.
The health outcomes and costs of people attending an interdisciplinary chronic disease service in regional Australia: protocol for a longitudinal cohort investigation
Authors: Tyack Zephanie , Frakes Kerrie-Anne , Cornwell Petrea , Kuys Suzanne S , Barnett Adrian G , McPhail Steven M
Published: October 2013

Background

Rates of chronic disease are escalating around the world. To date health service evaluations have focused on interventions for single chronic diseases. However, evaluations of the effectiveness of new intervention strategies that target single chronic diseases as well as multimorbidity are required, particularly in areas outside major metropolitan centres where access to services, such as specialist care, is difficult and where the retention and recruitment of health professionals affects service provision.

Methods

This study is a longitudinal investigation with a baseline and three follow-up assessments comparing the health and health costs of people with chronic disease before and after intervention at a chronic disease clinic, in regional Australia. The clinic is led by students under the supervision of health professionals. The study will provide preliminary evidence regarding the effectiveness of the intervention, and evaluate the influence of a range of factors on the health outcomes and costs of the patients attending the clinic. Patients will be evaluated at baseline (intake to the service), and at 3-, 6-, and 12-months after intake to the service. Health will be measured using the SF-36 and health costs will be measured using government and medical record sources. The intervention involves students and health professionals from multiple professions working together to treat patients with programs that include education and exercise therapy programs for back pain, and Healthy Lifestyle programs; as well as individual consultations involving single professions.

Discussion

Understanding the effect of a range of factors on the health state and health costs of people attending an interdisciplinary clinic will inform health service provision for this clinical group and will determine which factors need to be controlled for in future observational studies. Preliminary evidence regarding changes in health and health costs associated with the intervention will be a platform for future clinical trials of intervention effectiveness. The results will be of interest to teams investigating new chronic disease programs particularly for people with multimorbidity, and in areas outside major metropolitan centres.

Trial registration

Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12611000724976
The effect of insecticide-treated bed nets on the incidence and prevalence of malaria in children in an area of unstable seasonal transmission in western Myanmar
Authors: Smithuis Frank M , Kyaw Moe Kyaw , Phe U Ohn , van der Broek Ingrid , Katterman Nina , Rogers Colin , Almeida Patrick , Kager Piet A , Stepniewska Kasia , Lubell Yoel , Simpson Julie A , White Nicholas J
Published: October 2013

Background

Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITN) reduce malaria morbidity and mortality consistently in Africa, but their benefits have been less consistent in Asia. This study’s objective was to evaluate the malaria protective efficacy of village-wide usage of ITN in Western Myanmar and estimate the cost-effectiveness of ITN compared with extending early diagnosis and treatment services.

Methods

A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in Rakhine State to assess the efficacy of ITNs in preventing malaria and anaemia in children and their secondary effects on nutrition and development. The data were aggregated for each village to obtain cluster-level infection rates. In total 8,175 children under 10 years of age were followed up for 10 months, which included the main malaria transmission period. The incidence and prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections, and the biting behaviour of Anopheles mosquitoes in the area were studied concurrently. The trial data along with costs for current recommended treatment practices were modelled to estimate the cost-effectiveness of ITNs compared with, or in addition to extending the coverage of early diagnosis and treatment services.

Results

In aggregate, malaria infections, spleen rates, haemoglobin concentrations, and weight for height, did not differ significantly during the study period between villages with and without ITNs, with a weighted mean difference of −2.6 P. falciparum episodes per 1,000 weeks at risk (95% Confidence Interval −7 to 1.8). In areas with a higher incidence of malaria there was some evidence ITN protective efficacy. The economic analysis indicated that, despite the uncertainty and variability in their protective efficacy in the different study sites, ITN could still be cost-effective, but not if they displaced funding for early diagnosis and effective treatment which is substantially more cost-effective.

Conclusion

In Western Myanmar deployment of ITNs did not provide consistent protection against malaria in children living in malaria endemic villages. Early diagnosis and effective treatment is a more cost effective malaria control strategy than deployment of ITNs in this area where the main vector bites early in the evening, often before people are protected by an ITN.
Predictors of continued HIV-risk behaviors among drug users in methadone maintenance therapy program in China—A prospective study
Authors: Chen Wen , Xia Yinghua , Hong Yan , Hall Brian J , Ling Li
Published: October 2013

Background

To examine the predictors of continued drug- and sex-related HIV-risk behaviors among drug users in methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) programs in China.

Methods

We followed a sample of 5,035 drug users enrolled for the first time in MMT programs at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months utilizing a longitudinal prospective study design. Drug users’ HIV-risk behaviors, MMT characteristics, and drug use, were assessed at all three waves using a structured interview and HIV/HCV status was assessed at baseline and 12-month follow-up using biological specimens.

Results

The point prevalence of HIV was 7.6% and 78.4% for HCV at baseline. Results of generalized linear mixed logistic regression models revealed that HIV-positive MMT clients were more likely to engage in drug injection (aOR = 1.70) and syringe sharing (aOR = 4.73). HCV-positive clients were more likely to inject drugs (aOR = 2.58), share syringes (aOR = 1.97), and have multiple sexual partners (aOR = 1.47). Adherence to MMT was the most significant predictor of reduced HIV-risk behaviors.

Conclusions

Our data confirmed the positive effects of MMT on HIV prevention and underscored the urgency for programs to reduce HIV risk in HIV- and HCV-positive clients. There is a pressing need to strengthen existing counseling services for HIV-positive drug users to reduce their drug-related risk behaviors and to provide counseling for HCV-positive drug users. Further studies are needed to explore interventions to address high dropout rates and low adherence among MMT clients.
Distribution and habitat characterization of the recently introduced invasive mosquito Aedes koreicus [Hulecoeteomyia koreica], a new potential vector and pest in north-eastern Italy
Authors: Montarsi Fabrizio , Martini Simone , Dal Pont Marco , Delai Nicola , Ferro Milone Nicola , Mazzucato Matteo , Soppelsa Fabio , Cazzola Luigi , Cazzin Stefania , Ravagnan Silvia , Ciocchetta Silvia , Russo Francesca , Capelli Gioia
Published: October 2013

Background

The container breeding species belonging to the genus Aedes (Meigen) are frequently recorded out of their place of origin. Invasive Aedes species are proven or potential vectors of important Arboviruses and their establishment in new areas pose a threat for human and animal health. A new species of exotic mosquito was recorded in 2011 in north-eastern Italy: Aedes (Finlaya) koreicus [Hulecoeteomyia koreica]. The aim of this study was to characterize the biology, the environment and the current distribution of this mosquito in north-eastern Italy. Morphological details useful to discriminate this species from other invasive Aedes mosquitoes are also given (see Additional files).

Methods

All possible breeding sites for larval development were monitored. In addition, ovitraps and traps for adults were used to collect eggs and adults. The mosquitoes (larvae and adults) were identified morphologically and molecularly. Environmental data and climatic variables during the period of mosquito activity (from April to October) were considered.

Results

Aedes koreicus was found in 37 municipalities (39.4%) and was detected in 40.2% of places and in 37.3% of larval habitats monitored, in a range of altitude from 173 to 1250 m.a.s.l.. Garden centres were the most common locations (66.7%), followed by streets/squares (57.1%), private gardens (46.4%) and cemeteries (21.1%) (p < 0.01). The main larval habitats were catch basins (48.5%) and artificial water containers (41.8%). As for Aedes albopictus [Stegomyia albopicta], ovitraps were attractive for adult females resulting in the higher rate of positivity (15/21; 71.4%) among breeding sites. The period of Ae. koreicus activity ranged from March 29 to October 29.

Conclusion

The species is clearly established in the area and is now overlapping with other vectors such as Ae. albopictus and colonizing areas over 800 m.a.s.l, not yet or sporadically reached by the tiger mosquito. The data collected are essential to assess the risk of colonization of other parts of Italy and Europe, as well as the risk of spreading of pathogens transmitted. These findings stress the importance of implementing entomological surveillance for early detection of invasive species, which is necessary for eradication or limitation of its further spread.
Th17 cells favor inflammatory responses while inhibiting type I collagen deposition by dermal fibroblasts: differential effects in healthy and systemic sclerosis fibroblasts
Authors: Brembilla Nicolò Costantino , Montanari Elisa , Truchetet Marie-Elise , Raschi Elena , Meroni Pierluigi , Chizzolini Carlo
Published: October 2013

Introduction

T helper (Th)-17 cells are increased in systemic sclerosis (SSc). We therefore assessed whether Th17 cells could modulate the inflammatory and fibrotic responses in dermal fibroblasts from healthy donors (HD) and SSc individuals.

Methods

Fibroblasts were obtained from 14 SSc and 8 HD skin biopsies. Th17 clones were generated from healthy peripheral blood upon enrichment of CC chemokine receptor (CCR)-4/CCR6/CD161 expressing cells. Their cytokine production was assessed by flow cytometry and multiplex beads immunoassay. Fibroblast production of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, interleukin (IL)-8, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, MMP-2 and type-I collagen was quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and radioimmunoassay (RIA), and changes in their transcription levels assessed by real-time PCR. Intracellular signals were dissected by western blot and the use of pharmacological inhibitors. IL-17A, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) blocking reagents were used to assess the specificity of the observed effects.

Results

IL-17A increased MCP-1, IL-8 and MMP-1 production in a dose-dependent manner while having no effect on type I collagen in HD and SSc fibroblasts both at protein and mRNA levels. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and p38 were preferentially involved in the induction of MCP-1 and IL-8, while MMP-1 was most dependent on c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). Supernatants of activated Th17 clones largely enhanced MCP-1, IL-8 and MMP-1 while strongly inhibiting collagen production. Of note, the production of MCP-1 and IL-8 was higher, while collagen inhibition was lower in SSc compared to HD fibroblasts. The Th17 clone supernatant effects were mostly dependent on additive/synergistic activities between IL-17A, TNF and in part IFN-γ. Importantly, the inhibition of type I collagen production induced by the Th17 clone supernatants was completely abrogated by blockade of IL-17A, TNF and IFN-γ mostly in SSc fibroblasts, revealing an intrinsic resistance to inhibitory signals in SSc.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that in vitro Th17 cells elicit pro-inflammatory responses while restraining collagen production. Thus, the increased Th17 cell number observed in SSc may impact on the inflammatory component of the disease simultaneously potentially providing a protective role against fibrosis.
The ZC3HC1 rs11556924 polymorphism is associated with increased carotid intima-media thickness in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: López-Mejías Raquel , Genre Fernanda , García-Bermúdez Mercedes , Corrales Alfonso , González-Juanatey Carlos , Llorca Javier , Miranda-Filloy José A , Rueda-Gotor Javier , Blanco Ricardo , Castañeda Santos , Martín Javier , González-Gay Miguel A
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex polygenic disease associated with chronic inflammation, accelerated atherosclerosis and increased cardiovascular (CV) mortality. A recent meta-analysis has described the ZC3HC1 rs11556924 polymorphism as one of the most important signals associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) in non-rheumatic Caucasian individuals. In this study we evaluated the potential association of this gene polymorphism with subclinical atherosclerosis assessed by the evaluation of carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in RA patients.

Methods

This study included 502 RA patients from Northern Spain. The ZC3HC1 rs11556924 polymorphism was genotyped with TaqMan single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping assays (C__31283062_10) in a 7900HT real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system. cIMT was also assessed in these patients by carotid ultrasonography (US) technology.

Results

RA patients carrying the TT genotype had significantly higher cIMT values than those homozygous for the CC genotype (mean ± standard deviation (SD): 0.76 ± 0.18 mm and mean ± SD: 0.71 ± 0.16 mm respectively; P = 0.03) even after adjusting the results for sex, age at the time of US study, follow-up time and traditional CV risk factors (P = 0.04) evidencing that the effect conferred by ZC3HC1 rs11556924 polymorphism is independent of the traditional CV risk factors.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that ZC3HC1 rs11556924 polymorphism is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis in RA.
Psychopathology and cognition in children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: Niarchou Maria , Zammit Stanley , van Goozen Stephanie H. M. , Thapar Anita , Tierling Hayley M. , Owen Michael J. , Van Den Bree Marianne B. M.
Published: October 2013

Background

Children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS) have been reported to have high rates of cognitive and psychiatric problems.

Aims

To establish the nature and prevalence of psychiatric disorder and neurocognitive impairment in children with 22q11.2DS and test whether risk of psychopathology is mediated by the children's intellectual impairment.

Method

Neurocognition and psychopathology were assessed in 80 children with 22q11.2DS (mean age 10.2 years, s.d. = 2.1) and 39 sibling controls (mean age 10.9 years, s.d. = 2.0).

Results

More than half (54%) of children with 22q11.2DS met diagnostic criteria for one or more DSM-IV-TR psychiatric disorder. These children had lower IQ (mean 76.8, s.d. = 13.0) than controls (mean 108.6, s.d. = 15.2) (P<0.001) and showed a range of neurocognitive impairments. Increased risk of psychopathology was not mediated by intellectual impairment.

Conclusions

22q11.2DS is not related to a specific psychiatric phenotype in children. Moreover, the deletion has largely independent effects on IQ and risk of psychopathology, indicating that psychopathology in 22q11.2DS is not a non-specific consequence of generalised cognitive impairment.
CAROTID ENDARTERECTOMY FOR ASYMPTOMATIC AND SYMPTOMATIC STENOSIS
Authors: Goldstein Larry B.
Published: October 2013

Extracranial carotid artery stenosis represents one of the potentially treatable causes of ischemic stroke. In addition to general risk factor management, carotid endarterectomy provides a specific prophylactic intervention aimed at decreasing the risk of stroke related to carotid artery disease. The potential benefit of the procedure is dependent on several factors, including the patient's symptom status. A basic knowledge of cerebrovascular anatomy is required to correctly interpret the symptoms and signs of carotid disease. Knowledge of test characteristics is necessary for determining an appropriate evaluation strategy, and an understanding of data regarding the benefits and risks of the procedure relevant to a specific patient is critical when deciding whether to recommend the procedure.
LIFESTYLE MODIFICATION, ANTIHYPERTENSIVES, AND CHOLESTEROL-LOWERING MEDICATION FOR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY STROKE PREVENTION
Authors: Ruland Sean D.
Published: October 2013

The adage "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" could never be truer than for stroke prevention. Acute stroke treatment (eg, thrombolysis) and stroke rehabilitation are not as effective for reducing the public health burden of stroke as is stroke prevention. Lifestyle changes may be important for stroke prevention, and modification of key risk factors for stroke can effectively reduce stroke incidence. Such measures may be cost-effective without producing serious adverse effects. Blood pressure control is paramount for hypertensive patients, and lipid-lowering agents should be employed when appropriate. Physicians need to actively educate patients regarding the benefits of healthy living and engage their participation in the monitoring and management of blood pressure and serum lipids.
Local cAMP signaling in disease at a glance
Authors: Gold Matthew G. , Gonen Tamir , Scott John D.
Published: October 2013

The second messenger cyclic AMP (cAMP) operates in discrete subcellular regions within which proteins that synthesize, break down or respond to the second messenger are precisely organized. A burgeoning knowledge of compartmentalized cAMP signaling is revealing how the local control of signaling enzyme activity impacts upon disease. The aim of this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster is to highlight how misregulation of local cyclic AMP signaling can have pathophysiological consequences. We first introduce the core molecular machinery for cAMP signaling, which includes the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA), and then consider the role of A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) in coordinating different cAMP-responsive proteins. The latter sections illustrate the emerging role of local cAMP signaling in four disease areas: cataracts, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Compensations for increased rotational inertia during human cutting turns
Authors: Qiao Mu , Brown Brian , Jindrich Devin L.
Published: October 2013

Locomotion in a complex environment is often not steady-state, but unsteady locomotion (stability and maneuverability) is not well understood. We investigated the strategies used by humans to perform sidestep cutting turns when running. Previous studies have argued that because humans have small yaw rotational moments of inertia relative to body mass, deceleratory forces in the initial velocity direction that occur during the turning step, or "braking" forces, could function to prevent body over-rotation during turns. We tested this hypothesis by increasing body rotational inertia and testing if braking forces during stance decreased. We recorded ground reaction force and body kinematics from seven participants performing 45° sidestep cutting turns and straight running at 5 levels of body rotational inertia, with increases up to 4-fold. Contrary to our prediction, braking forces remained consistent at different rotational inertias, facilitated by anticipatory changes to body rotational speed. Increasing inertia revealed that the opposing effects of several turning parameters including rotation due to symmetrical anterior-posterior forces result in a system that can compensate for 4-fold changes in rotational inertia with less than 50% changes to rotational velocity. These results suggest that in submaximal effort turning, legged systems may be robust to changes in morphological parameters, and that compensations can involve relatively minor adjustments between steps to change stance initial conditions.
An embryonic myosin converter domain influences Drosophila indirect flight muscle stretch activation, power generation and flight
Authors: Wang Qian , Newhard Christopher , Ramanath Seemanti , Sheppard Debra , Swank Douglas M.
Published: October 2013

Stretch activation (SA) is critical to the flight ability of insects powered by asynchronous, indirect flight muscles (IFM). An essential muscle protein component for SA and power generation is myosin. Which structural domains of myosin are significant for setting SA properties and power generation levels is poorly understood. We made use of Drosophila's transgenic techniques and unique single muscle myosin heavy chain gene to test the influence of the myosin converter domain on IFM SA and power generation. Replacing the endogenous converter with an embryonic version decreased SA tension and rate of SA tension generation. The changes in SA properties and myosin kinetics from the converter exchange caused power generation to drop to 10% of control fiber power when the optimal conditions for control fibers, 1% muscle length (ML) amplitude and 150 Hz oscillation frequency, were applied to fibers expressing the embryonic converter (IFI-EC). Optimizing conditions for IFI-EC fiber power production, doubling ML amplitude and decreasing oscillation frequency by 60%, improved power output to be 60% of optimized control fiber power. IFI-EC flies altered their aerodynamic flight characteristics to better match optimal fiber power generation conditions as wing beat frequency decreased and wing stroke amplitude increased. This enabled flight in spite of the drastic changes to fiber mechanical performance.
An algorithm to estimate unsteady and quasi-steady pressure fields from velocity field measurements
Authors: Dabiri John O. , Bose Sanjeeb , Gemmell Brad J. , Colin Sean P. , Costello John H.
Published: October 2013

We describe and characterize a method for estimating the pressure field corresponding to velocity field measurements, such as those obtained by using particle image velocimetry. The pressure gradient is estimated from a time series of velocity fields for unsteady calculations or from a single velocity field for quasi-steady calculations. The corresponding pressure field is determined based on median polling of several integration paths through the pressure gradient field in order to reduce the effect of measurement errors that accumulate along individual integration paths. Integration paths are restricted to the nodes of the measured velocity field, thereby eliminating the need for measurement interpolation during this step and significantly reducing the computational cost of the algorithm relative to previous approaches. The method is validated by using numerically-simulated flow past a stationary, two-dimensional bluff body and a computational model of a three-dimensional, self-propelled anguilliform swimmer to study the effects of spatial and temporal resolution, domain size, signal-to-noise ratio, and out of plane effects. Particle image velocimetry measurements of a freely-swimming jellyfish medusa and a freely-swimming lamprey are analyzed using the method to demonstrate the efficacy of the approach when applied to empirical data.
A kinematic model of Kármán gaiting in rainbow trout
Authors: Akanyeti Otar , Liao James C.
Published: October 2013

A mechanistic understanding how fishes swim in unsteady flows is challenging despite its prevalence in nature. Previous kinematic studies of fish Kármán gaiting in a vortex street behind a cylinder only report time-averaged measurements, precluding our ability to formally describe motions on a cycle-by-cycle basis. Here we present the first analytical model that describes the swimming kinematics of Kármán gaiting trout with 70% - 90% accuracy. We found that body bending kinematics can be modeled with a travelling wave equation, which has also been shown to accurately model freestream swimming kinematics. However, freestream swimming and Kármán gaiting are separated in the parameter space; the amplitude, wavelength and frequency values of the travelling wave equation are substantially different for each behavior. During Kármán gaiting, the wave is initiated at the body centre, which is 0.2 L (where L = total body length) further down the body compared to the initiation point in freestream swimming. The wave travels with a constant speed, which is higher than the nominal flow speed just as in freestream swimming. In addition to undulation, we observed that Kármán gaiting fish also exhibit substantial lateral translations and body rotations, which can constitute up to 75% of the behavior. These motions are periodic and their frequencies also match the vortex shedding frequency. There is an inverse correlation between head angle and body angle; when the body rotates in one direction, the head of the fish turns into the opposite direction. Our kinematic model reveals new information about how fish swim in vortical flows in real time and provides a platform to better understand effects of flow variations as well as the contribution of muscle activity during corrective motions.
Identifying Supply and Demand Elasticities of Agricultural Commodities: Implications for the US Ethanol Mandate
Authors: Roberts Michael J , Schlenker Wolfram
Published: October 2013

We present a new framework to identify supply elasticities of storable commodities where past shocks are used as exogenous price shifters. In the agricultural context, past yield shocks change inventory levels and futures prices of agricultural commodities. We use our estimated elasticities to evaluate the impact of the 2009 Renewable Fuel Standard on commodity prices, quantities, and food consumers' surplus for the four basic staples: corn, rice, soybeans, and wheat. Prices increase 20 percent if one-third of commodities used to produce ethanol are recycled as feedstock, with a positively skewed 95 percent confidence interval that ranges from 14 to 35 percent. (JEL Q11, Q16, Q42, Q48)
Análise de fluxo informacional de uma empresa do ramo alimentício de Rio Grande do Norte
Authors: Hekis Helio Roberto , Silva Bruno César Linhares da Costa , Ribeiro Ana Luiza Santos , Barbosa Raissa Targino Dantas , Silva Lana Viviane Linhares da Costa
Published: October 2013

O artigo tem como objetivo verificar a possibilidade de incrementar melhorias no fluxo informacional entre os setores comercial e de planejamento e controle da produção de uma empresa do ramo alimentício do Rio Grande do Norte para atendimento às demandas. O método de pesquisa foi baseado em pesquisas bibliográficas e descritivas, onde foram realizadas pesquisas, entrevistas e observações. Como resultados alcançados, propõe-se a adoção de “relatórios de cortes” a fim de atingir-se o atendimento da demanda disponível e otimizar o fluxo informacional entre os setores de PCP e comercial. Como resultados, percebe-se que através das melhorias propostas, os setores de PCP e vendas podem apresentar melhorias em termos de competitividade, qualidade e reciprocidade das decisões tomadas e implementadas, nos processos internos, nivelando as vendas de forma a atender a demanda oferecida. A pesquisa conclui que as organizações precisam gerir as informações de modo eficiente e eficaz, já que este é um insumo indispensável à sua sobrevivência. Assim precisam se preocupar com os processos de busca, produção, tratamento, armazenamento e disseminação das informações. Palavras-chaves: Fluxo informacional; Processo; Demanda; Capacidade.
Territorialidade em uma organização-cidade: o movimento quarteirão do soul
Authors: Coimbra Kary Emanuelle Reis , Saraiva Luiz Alex Silva
Published: October 2013

Nesse artigo objetiva-se analisar a territorialidade em uma organização-cidade. Em uma rua do centro de Belo Horizonte foi conduzida uma pesquisa exploratório-descritiva com base em observação sistemática e material iconográfico. Os principais resultados sugerem que, como um mesmo espaço pode abrigar vários lugares, a territorialidade é dinâmica, o que leva a encarar o lugar como uma construção social. As principais contribuições do estudo se relacionam a considerar as intervenções sociais no espaço urbano sob a ótica simbólica, devendo ser a cidade vista para além de seus limites físicos e geográficos, já que ela é o que o seu povo acredita, vivencia e (re)cria.
Domestic Violence: Firearm Seizures & Lethality Assessments: Enhancing the Police Response
Authors: Goralski Craig S.
Published: October 2013

Over the years, thousands of women have been murdered by their intimate partners. In response, innumerable preventative programmes and evaluative studies have been conducted to combat and mitigate the occurrences of this heinous crime. Nonetheless, a review of the literature reveals relatively few programmes and studies focused on the role of police in conducting structured assessments pertaining to the potential lethality for the individual circumstances of repeat victims of domestic abuse. In addition, firearm removal programmes also appear to be underutilised by police agencies. This paper offers recommendations for enhancing police procedures related to protecting women from the most severe forms of domestic violence, especially those involving firearms because they tend to be the most fatal. It is the position of this paper that law enforcement agencies should encourage officers to seize prohibited DV offender firearms as well as conduct some degree of risk assessment to help identify those women most at risk of serious bodily injury or death as a result of a DV attack. This paper also asserts that police officers should conduct some form of victim lethality assessment when responding to repeat domestic violence calls because these assessments are designed to detect certain conditions in a DV victim's environment that are indicative of a potential fatal outcome. In support of these positions, this paper reviews academic literature, scholarly studies, federal programmes, and at least one municipal law enforcement effort that employed firearm removal and lethality assessment. This paper concludes that such a programme can be effective in reducing domestic violence homicides. Research has demonstrated there are significant lethality indicators that may predict when certain women are more at risk of being killed by their abuser. In addition, danger assessments can enhance officers handling DV situations if they are given the additional tool of conducting these on-scene lethality assessments. With relatively little training, officers can be apprised of lethality indicators and be provided a list of questions that can direct their attention to the more lethal DV cases while simultaneously educating victims regarding their risk of a fatal outcome. If one life is saved, it would certainly be worth implementing such programmes.
Drivers of Export Segmentation Effectiveness and Their Impact on Export Performance
Authors: Diamantopoulos Adamantios , Ring Amata , Schlegelmilch Bodo B. , Doberer Eva
Published: October 2013

In recent years, export segmentation effectiveness has attracted increasing attention in academic literature. The current study acknowledges this construct's ability to capture the proximal outcomes of export segmentation efforts and contributes to the literature by investigating its key drivers and link to export performance. The results identify export segmentation commitment, export segmentation strategy, and number of segmentation bases used as the key drivers of export segmentation effectiveness. A segments-within-countries strategy proves the most promising choice because it affects all export segmentation dimensions, which, with the exception of cost reduction, are significantly linked to customer satisfaction, strategic export performance, and, ultimately, financial export performance. The findings also provide support for the sequential segmentation → targeting → positioning process and highlight the importance of managerial commitment to export segmentation when facing heterogeneous markets.
In Real Time: Exploring Nursing Students’ Learning during an International Experience
Authors: Afriyie Asenso Barbara , Reimer-Kirkham Sheryl , Astle Barbara
Published: October 2013

Nursing education has increasingly turned to international learning experiences to educate students who are globally minded and aware of social injustices in local and global communities. To date, research with international learning experiences has focused on the benefits for the students participating, after they have completed the international experience. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how nursing students learn during the international experience. The sample consisted of eight nursing students who enrolled in an international learning experience, and data were collected in “real time” in Zambia. The students were observed during learning activities and were interviewed three times. Three major themes emerged from the thematic analysis: expectations shaped students’ learning, engagement facilitated learning, and critical reflection enhanced learning. Implications are discussed, related to disrupting media representations of Africa that shape students’ expectations, and educational strategies for transformative learning and global citizenship.
Expression of manganese peroxidase by Lentinula edodes and Lentinula boryana in solid state and submerged system fermentation
Authors: HERMANN KATIA L. , COSTA ALESSANDRA , HELM CRISTIANE V. , LIMA EDSON A. DE , TAVARES LORENA B.B.
Published: October 2013

The production of ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass is referred as a second generation biofuel, whose processing is one of the most promising technologies under development. There are few available studies on the use of enzymes produced by fungi as active for the biodegradation of lignocellulosic biomass. However, the manganese peroxidase (MnP) enzyme presents high potential to degrade lignin and the basidiomycetes are the major producers of this oxidase. Thus, this study aimed at evaluating the ability of fungi Lentinula edodes and Lentinula boryana to produce this enzyme when cultivated in submerged fermentation system (SS) and also in solid-state fermentation system (SSF) containing Eucalyptus benthamii sawdust with or without corn cob meal. In the SS the greatest MnP expression occurred on the 25th day, being of 70 UI.L–1 for L. boryana and of 20 UI.L–1 for L. edodes. In the SSF, the best results were obtained on the 10th day for L. edodes, while for L. boryana it happened between the 20th and the 25th days, despite both species presented values close to 110 UI.L–1. Therefore, the results indicated that the studied fungi express the enzyme of interest and that its production is enhanced when cultivated in solid system.
Are leaf physiological traits related to leaf water isotopic enrichment in restinga woody species?
Authors: ROSADO BRUNO H.P. , MATTOS EDUARDO A. DE , STERNBERG LEONEL DA S.L.
Published: October 2013

During plant-transpiration, water molecules having the lighter stable isotopes of oxygen and hydrogen evaporate and diffuse at a faster rate through the stomata than molecules having the heavier isotopes, which cause isotopic enrichment of leaf water. Although previous models have assumed that leaf water is well-mixed and isotopically uniform, non-uniform stomatal closure, promoting different enrichments between cells, and different pools of water within leaves, due to morpho-physiological traits, might lead to inaccuracies in isotopic models predicting leaf water enrichment. We evaluate the role of leaf morpho-physiological traits on leaf water isotopic enrichment in woody species occurring in a coastal vegetation of Brazil known as restinga. Hydrogen and oxygen stable isotope values of soil, plant stem and leaf water and leaf traits were measured in six species from restinga vegetation during a drought and a wet period. Leaf water isotopic enrichment relative to stem water was more homogeneous among species during the drought in contrast to the wet period suggesting convergent responses to deal to temporal heterogeneity in water availability. Average leaf water isotopic enrichment relative to stem water during the drought period was highly correlated with relative apoplastic water content. We discuss this observation in the context of current models of leaf water isotopic enrichment as a function of the Péclet effect. We suggest that future studies should include relative apoplastic water content in isotopic models.
Synthesis of palladium-bidentate complex and its application in Sonogashira and Suzuki coupling reactions
Authors: Haddad Boumediene , Villemin Didier , Belarbi El-habib
Published: October 2013

A new palladium-bidentate complex [m-C6H4(CH2ImMe)2(PdCl2)] (III) was prepared in two steps. In the first step, [m-C6H4(CH2ImMeAgCl)2] (II) (Im = imidazole moiety) was obtained by reacting imidazolium salt [m-C6H4(CH2ImMe)2]Cl2 (I) (prepared by quaternisation of Nmethylimidazole with 1,3-bis(chloromethyl)benzene) and Ag2O in CH2Cl2. In the next step, treatment of (II) with Pd(CH3CN)2Cl2 afforded complex III which was evaluated for its catalytic activity for C-C bond-formation reactions by examining the coupling reaction of 3-iodoanisole with phenylacetylene in the Sonogashira reaction. In addition, 3-methoxybiphenyls were obtained with good to excellent yields by Suzuki coupling reactions of 3-iodoanisole with phenylboronic acids or phenylborates salts in the presence of this complex.
Variability in Diaphragm Motion During Normal Breathing, Assessed With B-Mode Ultrasound
Authors: Harper Caitlin J. , Shahgholi Leili , Cieslak Kathryn , Hellyer Nathan J. , Strommen Jeffrey A. , Boon Andrea J.
Published: October 2013

Study Design

Clinical measurement, cross-sectional.

Objectives

To establish a set of normal values for diaphragm thickening with tidal breathing in healthy subjects.

Background

Normal values for diaphragm contractility, as imaged sonographically, have not been described, despite the known role of the diaphragm in contributing to spinal stability. If the normal range of diaphragm contractility can be defined in a reliable manner, ultrasound has the potential to be used clinically and in research as a biofeedback tool to enhance diaphragm activation/contractility.

Methods

B-mode ultrasound was performed on 150 healthy subjects to visualize and measure hemi-diaphragm thickness on each side at resting inspiration and expiration. Primary outcome measures were hemi-diaphragm thickness and thickening ratio, stratified for age, gender, and body mass index. Interrater and intrarater reliability were also measured.

Results

Normal thickness of the diaphragm at rest ranged from 0.12 to 1.18 cm, with slightly greater thickness in men but no effect of age. Average ± SD change in thickness from resting expiration to resting inspiration was 20.0% ± 15.5% on the right and 23.5% ± 24.4% on the left; however, almost one third of healthy subjects had no to minimal diaphragm thickening with tidal breathing.

Conclusion

There is wide variability in the degree of diaphragm contractility during quiet breathing. B-mode ultrasound appears to be a reliable means of determining the contractility of the diaphragm, an important muscle in spinal stability. Further studies are needed to validate this imaging modality as a clinical tool in the neuromuscular re-education of the diaphragm to improve spinal stability in both healthy subjects and in patients with low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2013;43(12):927–931. Epub 11 October 2013. doi:10.2519/jospt.2013.4931
Long-Term Exercise Training for an Individual With Mixed Corticobasal Degeneration and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Features: 10-Year Case Report Follow-up
Authors: Steffen Teresa M. , Boeve Bradley F. , Petersen Cheryl M. , Dvorak Leah , Kantarci Kejal
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose

This case report describes the effects of long-term (10-year) participation in a community exercise program for a client with mixed features of corticobasal degeneration (CBD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The effects of exercise participation on both functional status and brain volume are described.

Case Description

A 60-year-old male dentist initially reported changes in gait and limb coordination. He received a diagnosis of atypical CBD at age 66 years; PSP was added at age 72 years. At age 70 years, the client began a therapist-led community group exercise program for people with Parkinson disease (PD). The program included trunk and lower extremity stretching and strengthening, upright balance and strengthening, and both forward and backward treadmill walking. The client participated twice weekly for 1 hour for 10 years and was reassessed in years 9 to 10.

Outcomes

Falls (self-reported weekly over the 10-year period of the study by the client and his wife) decreased from 1.9 falls per month in year 1 to 0.3 falls per month in year 10. Balance, walking endurance, and general mobility declined slightly. Gait speed (both comfortable and fast) declined; the client was unable to vary gait speed. Quantitative brain measurements indicated a slow rate of whole brain volume loss and ventricular expansion compared with clients with autopsy-proven CBD or PSP.

Discussion

This client has participated consistently in a regular group exercise program for 10 years. He has reduced fall frequency, maintained balance and endurance, and retained community ambulation using a walker. Combined with the slow rate of brain volume loss, this evidence supports the efficacy of a regular exercise program to prolong longevity and maintain function in people with CBD or PSP.