bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choosing bottled over tapped: drinking water in the Dominican Republic
Authors: McLennan John D.
Published: March 2015

While not designated as an improved drinking water source, bottled water is increasingly used by households in low- and middle-income countries as families strive to obtain perceived safer drinking water. The Dominican Republic has high levels of bottled water use despite high levels of piped water access. This study aimed to identify household characteristics that are associated with choosing bottled over tapped drinking water in the Dominican Republic through further examination of data available from a nationally representative Demographic and Healthy Survey from 2007. Among households reporting tapped water as their primary non-drinking water source, 59.6% identified bottled water as their principal drinking water source in comparison with 24.7% identifying tapped water. Greater wealth explained the largest amount of variance in bottled over tapped drinking water. Other hypothesized variables related to choosing bottled over tapped included residence in more urban settings, having a young child in the household, having fewer persons in the household, and a head of household who is female, younger and with higher education. Nationally, representative data which include components investigating perceptions about drinking water and actual quality of drinking water are required to further understand this phenomenon and its impact.
Modelling the fill rate of pit latrines in Ifakara, Tanzania
Authors: Todman Lindsay C. , van Eekert Miriam H. A. , Templeton Michael R. , Hardy (née Kelly) Marie , Gibson Walter T. , Torondel Belen , Abdelahi Faraji , Ensink Jeroen H. J.
Published: March 2015

A model of the rate at which pit latrines fill was developed and compared with actual fill rates measured in latrines in Ifakara, Tanzania. Model parameters were derived primarily from data collected during the field study in Tanzania, with one fitted parameter. Although the model did not accurately simulate the fill rate of individual pits, it provided a good simulation of the average fill rate of the pits and aided the identification of pits that were performing poorly. Laboratory experiments conducted on samples of sludge from the pits were used to identify the average hydrolysis constant for biodegradation of the organic material. The average hydrolysis constant (0.046 day−1) was higher than that identified in another modelling study (0.0015 day−1), conducted in South Africa. The higher hydrolysis constant provided a simulation of the profile of volatile solids with lower root mean square error in 17/24 of the pits, however, for the other pits a lower hydrolysis constant was more appropriate. A sensitivity study of the model indicated that the pit fill rates were particularly sensitive to the parameter that quantified water accumulation in the pit, as such quantifying water flow through the pit is a priority for future research.
Development of improved low-cost ceramic water filters for viral removal in the Haitian context
Authors: Guerrero-Latorre L. , Rusiñol M. , Hundesa A. , Garcia-Valles M. , Martinez S. , Joseph O. , Bofill-Mas S. , Girones R.
Published: March 2015

Household-based water treatment (HWT) is increasingly being promoted to improve water quality and, therefore, health status in low-income countries. Ceramic water filters (CWFs) are used in many regions as sustainable HWT and have been proven to meet World Health Organization (WHO) microbiological performance targets for bacterial removal (2–4 log); however, the described viral removal efficiencies are insufficient to significantly reduce the associated risk of viral infection. With the objective of improving the viral removal efficiencies of ceramic water filters, new prototypes with different oxide compositions and firing atmospheres have been developed and evaluated. For removal efficiencies human adenoviruses, MS2 bacteriophage and Escherichia coli were quantified in all prototypes. A new model of CWF that was fired in a reductive atmosphere presented virus and bacteria removal efficiencies greater than 3.0 log and 2.5 log, respectively, which would fulfill the viral targets that are recommended by the WHO. Ceramic characterization of the selected filters, which were fired in a reductive atmosphere, showed that a larger specific surface area than those of control filters and higher fraction of a positive Z-potential fraction are the most likely explanations for this increase in virus removal.
A multidimensional measurement of the health impact of community-based water treatment systems in Uganda
Authors: Deal Jeffery L. , Massa Henry , Check Kristen , Naaktgeboren Christiana , Malone Alyson M. , Rozelle Jeffrey
Published: March 2015

Using a unique combination of ethnographic methods, healthcare facility chart reviews, and individual waterborne parasite tests, the health impacts of providing water treatment systems for communities in Uganda are compared to the impact measured using identical water technology and similar research methods in Honduras. While self-reported diarrhea rates improved in the Ugandan test communities when compared to controls, no significant impact was detected in any of the other measures. This contrasts sharply with findings in Honduras where all measures demonstrated statistically significant improvement after installation of identical water treatment systems. Ongoing ethnographic work reveals that knowledge of waterborne pathogens was universal in both Uganda and Honduras while practices related to water consumption varied greatly. Additional factors effecting these outcomes will be discussed.
The Pathophysiology of Antiphospholipid Syndrome
Authors: Sada Pablo Ruiz , Cohen Hannah , Isenberg David
Published: March 2015

Advances in our knowledge of the pathogenic mechanisms of antiphospholipid syndrome have been achieved in the past few years. Apart from the well-known role of anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies, complement, endocrine and genetic factors and a variety of other molecules are now under investigation. These new approaches should lead to novel explanations and potential new treatment options.
Coagulopathy in trauma
Authors: Stefanovic Branislava , Stefanovic Branislav , Doklestic Krstina , Bumbasirevic Vesna , Karamarkovic Aleksandar , Jovanovic Bojan , Jozic Irena , Loncar Zlatibor
Published: March 2015

Trauma is still a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the
contemporary community, particularly in population younger than 40 years of
age. Recent studies have offered new knowledge on the central role of
coagulopathy in traumatized people. Massive hemorrhage is a cause of death in
severely traumatized people in 40% of cases, and the control of bleeding is a
special challenge in the developed and verified coagulopathy. After severe
trauma, massive hemorrhage is very often the consequence of associated
surgical and coagulopathic bleeding. Massive blood loss diminishes the
capacity of coagulation system, resulting in coagulopathy even in patients
whose hemostasis before the injury has been within physiological limits.
Unraveling the Black Box of Cost Behavior: An Empirical Investigation of Risk Drivers, Managerial Resource Procurement, and Cost Elasticity
Authors: Holzhacker Martin , Krishnan Ranjani , Mahlendorf Matthias D.
Published: March 2015

This paper extends prior literature on cost behavior by providing insights into how firms achieve changes to cost structure in response to two important risk drivers, i.e., demand uncertainty and financial risk. Using theory from labor economics, supply-chain management, and finance, we posit that demand uncertainty and financial risk influence cost management activities. Specifically, we argue that firms are likely to alter resource procurement choices to increase cost elasticity in response to these two risk drivers. We use data from California hospitals that allow for the calibration of three distinct resource procurement choices that increase cost elasticity: outsourcing, leasing of equipment, and hiring contract labor. Mediation analysis using 2,202 hospital year observations indicates that both demand uncertainty and financial risk influence cost elasticity. Importantly, these effects are mediated by the three aforementioned resource procurement choices. Overall, our findings support the view that firms make procurement choices to manage the risk associated with cost structures.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are publicly available from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (see: http://www.oshpd.ca.gov/).

JEL Classifications: I18; M41.
Cuspal Flexure and Extent of Cure of a Bulk-fill Flowable Base Composite
Authors: Francis AV , Braxton AD , Ahmad W , Tantbirojn D , Simon JF , Versluis A
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To investigate a bulk-fill flowable base composite (Surefil SDR Flow) in terms of cuspal flexure and cure when used in incremental or bulk techniques.

Methods

Mesio-occluso-distal cavities (4 mm deep, 4 mm wide) were prepared in 24 extracted molars. The slot-shaped cavities were etched, bonded, and restored in 1) two 2-mm increments Esthet-X HD (control), 2) two 2-mm increments Surefil SDR Flow, or 3) 4-mm bulk Surefil SDR Flow (N=8). The teeth were digitized after preparation (baseline) and restoration and were precisely aligned to calculate cuspal flexure. Restored teeth were placed in fuchsin dye for 16 hours to determine occlusal bond integrity from dye penetration. Extent of cure was assessed by hardness at 0.5-mm increments through the restoration depth. Results were analyzed with analysis of variance and Student-Newman-Keuls post hoc tests (α=0.05).

Results

Surefil SDR Flow, either incrementally or bulk filled, demonstrated significantly less cuspal flexure than Esthet-X HD. Dye penetration was less than 3% of cavity wall height and was not statistically different among groups. The hardness of Surefil SDR Flow did not change throughout the depth for both incrementally and bulk filled restorations; the hardness of Esthet-X HD was statistically significantly lower at the bottom of each increment than at the top.

Conclusions

Filling in bulk or increments made no significant difference in marginal bond quality or cuspal flexure for the bulk-fill composite. However, the bulk-fill composite caused less cuspal flexure than the incrementally placed conventional composite. The bulk-fill composite cured all the way through (4 mm), whereas the conventional composite had lower cure at the bottom of each increment.
Influence of Chopstick Size on Taste Evaluations
Authors: Lin Hung-Ming , Lin Chien-Huang , Hung Hui-Hsi
Published: March 2015

This study explored the influence of the length of chopsticks on taste evaluations. Participants ( N = 78; M age = 21.1 yr., SD = 3.8) reported a greater liking for their food and higher purchase intentions when using long rather than short chopsticks. Findings also indicated that the long (vs short) chopsticks caused people to slow down when eating, resulting in greater eating duration and a higher number of mouthfuls. The findings of this study provide insights on research into the role of tableware in food intake.
Calcareous pine forests on Gotland, their typology and main soil properties/ Gotlandi kaltsifi ilsed männikud; nende tüpoloogia ja muldade peamised omadused
Authors: Paal Jaanus , Rajandu Elle
Published: March 2015

The calcareous pine forests have one of the highest species diversity among the forest communities in northern Europe. We analysed their classification structure and the relationship with principal environmental variables on Gotland Island, South East Sweden. There were 14 species recorded in the tree layer, 60 species in the shrub layer, including 18 species of tree saplings, 273 species in the field layer and 80 species in the moss layer. The former classifications of the Gotland’s calcareous pine forests are conducted too coarsely or without statistical justification of established community types. In the current study the stands were classified into four community types, 1) Arctostaphylos uva-ursi-Tortella tortuosa type, 2) Brachypodium sylvaticum-Rhytidiadelphus triquetrus type, 3) Carex montana-Scleropodium purum type and, 4) Geranium sanguineum-Scleropodium purum type. All these community types have significantly different species content and they are mutually distinct also by numerous considered environmental variables. The species variation in the shrub, field and moss layers was related primarily with three rather strongly correlated variables: tree layer height, abundance of Picea abies (L.) H.Karst. and soil humus horizon depth. Soils were mainly the Sceletic Regosols or Calcaric Gleyic Regosols, but also Rendzic Leptosols.
Changes of monoterpenes in stem of Chinese white pine (Pinus armandi) saplings following treatment with Methyl Jasmonate
Authors: Pham Thanh , Chen Hui , Zhang Ranran , Dai Lulu , Vu Thiquynhtrang
Published: March 2015

The Chinese white pine beetle (Dendroctonus armandi Tsai and Li) is the causal organism for the colossal death of the Chinese white pine (Pinus armandi Fr). We investigated the change of monoterpenes in the stem pholem and xylem in P. armandi saplings at 4 days, 8 days, and 30 days after treatment using treatment (MeJa + Tween-20 and Tween-20 as control) and untreated. GC-MS analysis found that the total monoterpene concentrations in the pholem and xylem in MeJa-treated saplings increased significantly compared with control or untreated saplings. Additionally, the proportions of β-pinene in the stem pholem, β-myrcene in the stem xylem, and limonene + β-phellandrene in both pholem and xylem of MeJa-treated saplings were increased significantly compared with control or untreated saplings. Based on our results, we suggest that by increasing the total concentration of monoterpene and the concentrations of β-myrcene, β-pinene and limonene + β-phellandrene maybe play an important defensive role against insect pests in P. armandi defense.
Arbutin and decrease of potentially toxic substances generated in human blood neutrophils
Authors: Pečivová Jana , Nosáľ Radomír , Sviteková Klára , Mačičková Tatiana
Published: March 2015

Neutrophils, highly motile phagocytic cells, constitute the first line of host defense and simultaneously they are considered to be central cells of chronic inflammation. In combination with standard therapeutic procedures, natural substances are gaining interest as an option for enhancing the effectiveness of treatment of inflammatory diseases. We investigated the effect of arbutin and carvedilol and of their combination on 4β-phorbol-12β-myristate-13α-acetate- stimulated functions of human isolated neutrophils. Cells were preincubated with the drugs tested and subsequently stimulated. Superoxide (with or without blood platelets, in the rate close to physiological conditions [1:50]) and HOCl generation, elastase and myeloperoxidase release were determined spectrophotometrically and phospholipase D activation spectrofluorometrically. The combined effect of arbutin and carvedilol was found to be more effective than the effect of each compound alone. Our study provided evidence supporting the potential beneficial effect of arbutin alone or in combination with carvedilol in diminishing tissue damage by decreasing phospholipase D, myeloperoxidase and elastase activity and by attenuating the generation of superoxide and the subsequently derived reactive oxygen species. The presented data indicate the ability of arbutin to suppress the onset and progression of inflammation
Hemostatic effect and distribution of new rhThrombin formulations in rats
Authors: Kochan Jan , Schmidtová Ľudmila , Sadloňová Irina , Murányi Andrej
Published: March 2015

Recombinant human thrombin (rhThrombin) is a potential hemostatic alternative to bovine and human plasma-derived thrombin. Hemostatic, liver regeneration effect and plasma concentrations of rhThrombin (SCILL) tested in the form of solution and hydrogels (thermo-sensitive poloxamer gel and carbomer gel; hameln rds) were evaluated. In the bleeding model, rhThrombin was applied locally on the bleeding site. The time to hemostasis was measured. The rhThrombin in liquid form as well as the thermo-sensitive gel forming formulation significantly reduced the bleeding time in comparison to saline. In the regeneration model, a cut in the form “V” was made on the liver and rhThrombin in both formulations was applied at defined concentrations to the wound for 5 min. The rats survived 1, 3 and 5 days after the injury and treatment. Histological examination showed better results in the group treated with rh Thrombin gel in comparison to the liquid form - solution; differences were insignificant. Low [125I]-rhThrombin radioactivity was evaluated in plasma after topical application (solution and both hydrogels) at hemostatic effective doses to partial hepatectomy in rats. Locally applied rh Thrombin on the rat damaged liver tissue never reached pharmacologically active systemic levels. The plasmatic levels and the content of this active protein in injured liver tissue were lower after application of its hydrogels versus solution
Appropriate CFD Turbulence Model for Improving Indoor Air Quality of Ventilated Spaces
Authors: Teodosiu Cătălin , Ilie Viorel , Teodosiu Raluca
Published: March 2015

Accurate assessment of air-flow in ventilated spaces is of major importance for achieving healthy and comfortable indoor environment conditions. The CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) technique is nowadays one of the most used approaches in order to improve the indoor air quality in ventilated environments. Nevertheless, CFD has still two main challenges: turbulence modeling and experimental validation. As a result, the objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of different turbulence models potentially appropriate for the prediction of indoor airflow. Accordingly, results obtained with 6 turbulence models (standard k-ε model, RNG k-ε model, realizable k-ε model, LRN SST k-ω model, transition SST k-ω model and low Reynolds Stress-ω model) are thoroughly validated based on detailed experimental data. The configuration taken into account in this work corresponds to isothermal and anisothermal airflows produced by mixing ventilation systems in small enclosures at low room air changes per hour. In general, the transition SST k-ω model shows the better overall behavior in comparison with measurement values. Consequently, the application of this turbulence model is appropriate for air flows in ventilated spaces, being an interesting option to more sophisticated LES (Large Eddy Simulation) models as it requires less computational resources.
Dysphagia in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (Gerd)
Authors: Grivcheva-Stardelova Kalina , Popova-Jovanova Rozalinda , Deriban Gjorgji , Joksimovic Nenad , Zdravkovska Milka
Published: March 2015

Introduction. Dysphagia is considered an alarm symptom, raising the question of stricture or malignancy. We sought to determine the prevalence and severity of dysphagia and correlation with severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease and its response to therapy.

Methods. A total of 642 patients with endoscopically confirmed erosive esophagitis (Los Angeles grades AD). Esophagitis was classified as mild (grade A or B) or severe (grade C or D).

Results. At baseline, of 642 patients 37% had dysphagia, 43% had severe esophagitis, and 35% mild esophagitis (odds ratio, 1.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-1.51, p<0.001). Dysphagia resolved in 73% of patients after 4 weeks of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment. Resolution of dysphagia was associated with a mean healing rate of 87% acrossall treatments. Seventeen percent of patients reported persistent dysphagia, and in these patients the healing rates were decreased significantly (mean 72%; p<0.0001).

Conclusions. Dysphagia is common in patients with erosive esophagitis but is not a reliable clinical predictor of severe erosive esophagitis. Dysphagia resolved with PPI therapy in most cases, but persistent dysphagia may indicate failed healing.
Clinical Outcomes of Three Different Modes of Femoral Hamstring Graft Fixation in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Kostov Hristijan , Kaftandziev Igor , Arsovski Oliver , Kostova Elena , Gavrilovski Andrej
Published: March 2015

Introduction. There are various methods of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction of which the two main choices in autograft reconstruction involve the use of the bone-patella tendon-bone or hamstring graft. Femoral fixation can be divided into three main types: cortical suspensory devices such as Endobutton (Smith & Nephew, Arthrex), interference screws, and femoral transfixation devices such as Transfix (Arthrex) and Rigidfix (Depuy-Mitek). The aim of this study was to compare the clinical outcome between Rigidfix, Transfix and Endobutton devices for soft tissue femoral fixation in primary ACL reconstruction using the autogenous hamstring graft.

Methods. We conducted our study in 48 patients admitted to our clinic, University Traumatology Clinic, Clinical Center "Mother Teresa", Skopje for ACL reconstruction from September 2009 to May 2013. The patients with ACL reconstruction were assigned as Rigidfix group (n=28), the second patients to Transfix group (n=13) and the third to Endobutton group (n=7). MRI of the knee joint was done prior to surgery. A data sheet, containing demographic data, examination findings and Tegner & Lysholm score, was completed for each patient.

Results. Tegner & Lysholm the average scores before surgery were 2.52 and 34.75 (p>0.05). Six month after arthroscopy, the average value of Tegner and Lysholm scores in patients with ACL reconstruction was 8.37 and 89.08. Comparison among them showed that the operative mode of Endobutton femoral fixation had the highest level of the Lysholm score.

Conclusions. Endobutton (Tight rope-RT) yielded a better outcome compared to the other two modes of femoral fixation in terms of instant stability of the graft and the general results.
From Overdecentralization to Overcentralization ? Hungarian Experience in Handling the Crisis at the Local Level
Authors: Gellén Márton
Published: March 2015

This paper provides a polemic interpretation of recent Hungarian public-administration reforms compared to the opinions that can be found in international scientific literature. The divergence of the various interpretations stems from the different perspectives on the historic context of the development path of the Hungarian municipal administration during the pre- and post-regime change period. The differences in the interpretation of the achievements of the regime change determine whether one would suggest a minor correction or a total replacement - if given the possibility. After briefly describing the public-administration legacy of the communist past and of the post-communist decades, the article delves into the analysis of the financial unsustainability of the highly decentralized local-government system. The analysis builds on the findings of international financiers that operate as policy- transfer powerhouses, as well. Bursting financial tensions led to Hungary’s loan agreement with the IMF in 1996. Although the loan was paid back by 1998, internal systemic inefficiencies stemming from the uneasy compromises of the regime change still had their corroding effect, although vulnerable finances were veiled by occasional conjunctures in the domestic and international economy. In the year 2008, the country became virtually insolvent and again applied for an IMF loan. The IMF itself formulated certain measures to increase the efficiency of the overdecentralized local-government system. Unlike its predecessor, the government that stepped into power in 2010 had the political power to launch systemic corrections in the local-government system. The reforms contained a trade-off : the majority of local competences in exchange for fiscally consolidating local governments. This is labeled as a trade-off between efficiency and democracy by certain authors. It is a fact that the overdecentralized form of local public administration was inefficient and unsustainable. Now there is an opportunity to test whether an overcentralized public administration would be efficient.
An ongoing measles outbreak in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, 2014 to 2015
Authors: Hukic M , Ravlija J , Karakas S , Mulaomerovic M , Dedeic Ljubovic A , Salimović-Besic I , Seremet M , Ahmetagic S , Comor A , Feric E
Published: March 2015

Between January 2014 and the beginning of February 2015, the Federal Institute of Public Health in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina has reported 3,804 measles cases. Notable transmission has been observed in three Central Bosnia Canton municipalities: Bugojno, Fojnica and Travnik. Most cases were unvaccinated 2,680 (70%) or of unknown vaccination status 755 (20%). Health authorities have been checking vaccination records and performing necessary prevention measures. The epidemic is still ongoing.
Down the Rabbit Hole
Authors: Butler Christopher
Published: March 2015

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v16i0.12221       HYDRO Nepal Journal of Water Energy and Environment  Issue. 16, 2015, January Page: 34-35 Upload date: March 1, 2015
Personality Profile
Authors: Pradhan Bhubanesh Kumar
Published: March 2015

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v16i0.12225            HYDRO Nepal  Journal of Water Energy and Environment Issue. 16, 2015, January Page: 46-47 Upload date: March 1, 2015
Mr. Radhesh Pant granted an interview to Mr. Bhai Raja Manandhar, Managing Editor, Hydro Nepal Journal. The interview in its entirety is presented.
Authors: Pant Radhesh
Published: March 2015

Not Available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v16i0.12226            HYDRO Nepal  Journal of Water Energy and Environment Issue. 16, 2015, January Page: 48-51 Upload date: March 1, 2015
Evaluating Driver and Pedestrian Behaviors at Enhanced, Multilane, Midblock Pedestrian Crossings
Authors: Foster Nick , Monsere Christopher M. , Carlos Katherine
Published: March 2015

This study examined driver and pedestrian behaviors at two enhanced midblock pedestrian crossings in Portland, Oregon. One crossing was at a five-lane arterial with a posted speed of 35 mph and featured eight rectangular rapid flash beacon (RRFB) assemblies and a narrow median refuge. The other crossing was at a suburban arterial with a posted speed of 40 mph, four travel lanes, and a two-way left-turn lane. The crossing was enhanced with four RRFB assemblies and a median island with a Z-crossing, or Danish offset, designed to encourage pedestrians to face oncoming traffic before they completed the second stage of their crossing. Approximately 62 h of video was collected at the two locations. A total of 351 pedestrian crossings were analyzed for driver compliance (yielding) rates, pedestrian activation rates, pedestrian delay, and conflict avoidance maneuvers. The suburban arterial crossing was also evaluated to determine its effectiveness at diverting pedestrians to cross at the crossing instead of away from the crosswalk, as well as pedestrian compliance with the Z-crossing. The study found that average driver yield rates at both sites were slightly greater than 90% when the RRFB was activated, consistent with previous studies. RRFB actuation rates ranged from 83% to more than 90%. The results also showed that approximately 52% of all crossings at the marked crosswalk at the second location were made by diverted pedestrians and that the enhanced crossing captured about 82% of all crossings near the crosswalk. Finally, approximately 52% of the pedestrians who used the crosswalk followed the Z-crossing pattern through the median.
Walking Behaviors by Trip Purposes
Authors: Hatamzadeh Yaser , Habibian Meeghat , Khodaii Ali
Published: March 2015

Increases in motorized trips and declines in individuals’ physical activity have become major challenges for many communities. Many studies have investigated the public health, economic, environmental, transportation, and other benefits of promoting nonmotorized modes of transportation. Studies have suggested a range of policies to be considered by policy makers. A significant portion of the transportation literature is made up of studies that have focused on a single-purpose trip. The present research investigated and compared walking behaviors for a diverse range of trip purposes, including work, study, and shopping trips. A series of behavioral choice models was introduced with a range of explanatory variables, including individual, household, travel, and environmental variables. Of the individual variables, age and gender were found to be significantly related to walking. The results showed that seniors were more likely to walk for work trips. Females were more interested in walking during work and shopping trips; however, females were less active during trips for study purposes. The results showed that individuals who had a car in the household were less motivated to walk for the investigated trip purposes. Time of day was also found to be effective in the decision to walk for various trip purposes. Another significant factor was travel distance, which had diverse effects on walking in all models.
Closed-Course Study of Driver Detection of Pedestrians beyond Flashing Beacons within Sign Assembly
Authors: Fitzpatrick Kay , Robertson James , Avelar Raul
Published: March 2015

This study evaluated the effect of yellow rapid flashing beacon characteristics on the ability to detect objects located behind a sign during a closed-course driving study sponsored by FHWA. For the analysis focusing on object detection distance, the results indicated that certain study assemblies were associated with shorter object detection distances. During the day, the object detection distance was shorter for objects behind an assembly with two rectangular beacons below the sign (R-B), as opposed to other beacon arrangements, such as two rectangular beacons above the sign and two circular beacons below or above the sign. At night, the detection distance to an object was shorter behind an assembly with R-B when compared with an assembly with two 12-in. circular beacons below the sign. These findings indicated that characteristics of the R-B, such as the light intensity or the location of the beacons, might negatively affect the driver's ability to see an object. For the analysis focusing on the accuracy of detecting objects, which considered the number of objects missed by the participants, the location of the beacons (above or below the sign) was significant during the day but not at night. During the day, participants were less likely to miss an object when the beacons were above the sign.
Evaluation of Interactions between Buses and Bicycles at Stops
Authors: Zhao De , Wang Wei , Zheng Yuan , Ji Yanjie , Wang Wenfu , Hu Xiaojian
Published: March 2015

Buses and bicycles that share lanes interfere with each other, especially at bus stops. The primary objective of this study was to develop quantitative approaches to analyze interactions between buses and bicycles at bus stops. Field investigations were conducted at four types of bus stops in China. Observed data were used to test the significance of differences in bicycle speeds, and a model was proposed to predict the number of meeting events between buses and bicycles. Results indicate that bicycle speeds are influenced significantly when a bicyclist meets a bus at a bus stop where both vehicle types share the same lane. Setting strips to separate bus and bicycle movement trajectories can reduce or eliminate the impact on efficiency and safety. The number of meeting events between buses and bicycles can be used to characterize the level of service of this facility shared by buses and bicycles. The proposed model achieved relatively accurate prediction for the number of meeting events. The findings can contribute to a quantitative understanding of the effects on buses and bicycles at stops and to an evaluation of this facility shared by buses and bicycles.
Modeling the Impacts of Bicycle Facilities on Work and Recreational Bike Trips in Los Angeles County, California
Authors: Stinson Monique A. , Porter Christopher D. , Proussaloglou Kimon E. , Calix Robert , Chu Chaushie
Published: March 2015

Metropolitan planning organizations and other planning agencies increasingly are asked to evaluate proposed bicycle facilities and to select the most promising facilities for funding. The objective was to develop models of utilitarian and recreational bicycling and to implement these models in a unified geographic information system–based framework that the Los Angeles County, California, Metropolitan Transportation Authority could use for planning purposes. Statistical models that evaluate bicycling to work and bicycling for recreation were estimated and implemented in the framework. A logistic regression model was used to estimate bicycle-to-work mode share at the level of census tracts or traffic analysis zones. Furthermore, a pair of disaggregate models was estimated to evaluate bicycle trips made for recreation. The bicycle-to-work model estimation generated parameter estimates that were consistent with previous literature and added to the literature by demonstrating the importance of well-connected and accessible bicycle networks for utilitarian bicycling. The recreational models provide a new way to estimate the impacts of bicycle facilities on leisure or fitness-based bicycle trips. Like the work trip model, the recreational bicycling models show the importance of proximity to trails and the impact of distance as a barrier to reaching the nearest trails on the decision to bicycle for recreation.
Electric Bikes in North America
Authors: MacArthur John , Dill Jennifer , Person Mark
Published: March 2015

The research described in this paper was conducted in part to understand whether different bicycling technology–-in this case, electric-assist bicycles (e-bikes)–-could reduce barriers to bicycling such as trip distance, topography, time, and rider effort. If so, this technology may result in more bike trips and longer bike trips and may increase the diversity of people bicycling, including people with disabilities or chronic injuries. An e-bike typically resembles a standard pedal bicycle with the addition of a rechargeable battery and electric motor to assist with propulsion. To address these aims, an online survey was conducted of existing e-bike users, who were surveyed about their purchase and use decisions. Responses from 553 e-bike users across North America were analyzed. Results suggest that e-bikes enable users to bike more often, to travel longer distances, and to carry more cargo with them. Additionally, e-bikes allow people who otherwise would not be able to bike (because of physical limitations or proximity to locations) the ability to bike with electric assist.
Microsurgical anatomy of the arterial basket of the conus medullaris
Authors: Martirosyan Nikolay L. , Kalani M. Yashar S. , Lemole G. Michael , Spetzler Robert F. , Preul Mark C. , Theodore Nicholas
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

The arterial basket of the conus medullaris (ABCM) consists of 1 or 2 arteries arising from the anterior spinal artery (ASA) and circumferentially connecting the ASA and the posterior spinal arteries (PSAs). The arterial basket can be involved in arteriovenous fistulas and arteriovenous malformations of the conus. In this article, the authors describe the microsurgical anatomy of the ABCM with emphasis on its morphometric parameters and important role in the intrinsic blood supply of the conus medullaris.

METHODS

The authors performed microsurgical dissections on 16 formalin-fixed human spinal cords harvested within 24 hours of death. The course, diameter, and branching angles of the arteries comprising the ABCM were then identified and measured. In addition, histological sections were obtained to identify perforating vessels arising from the ABCM.

RESULTS

The ASA tapers as it nears the conus medullaris (mean preconus diameter 0.7 ± 0.12 mm vs mean conus diameter 0.38 ± 0.08 mm). The ASA forms an anastomotic basket with the posterior spinal artery (PSA) via anastomotic branches. In most of the specimens (n= 13, 81.3%), bilateral arteries formed connections between the ASA and PSA. However, in the remaining specimens (n= 3, 18.7%), a unilateral right-sided anastomotic artery was identified. The mean diameter of the right ABCM branch was 0.49 ± 0.13 mm, and the mean diameter of the left branch was 0.53 ± 0.14 mm. The mean branching angles of the arteries forming the anastomotic basket were 95.9° ± 36.6° and 90° ± 34.3° for the right- and left-sided arteries, respectively. In cases of bilateral arterial anastomoses between the ASA and PSA, the mean distance between the origins of the arteries was 4.5 ± 3.3 mm. Histological analysis revealed numerous perforating vessels supplying tissue of the conus medullaris.

CONCLUSIONS

The ABCM is a critical anastomotic connection between the ASA and PSA, which play an important role in the intrinsic blood supply of the conus medullaris. The ABCM provides an important compensatory function in the blood supply of the spinal cord. Its involvement in conus medullaris vascular malformations makes it a critical anatomical structure.
Grade 2 meningioma and radiosurgery
Authors: Aboukais Rabih , Zairi Fahed , Lejeune Jean-Paul , Le Rhun Emile , Vermandel Maximilien , Blond Serge , Devos Patrick , Reyns Nicolas
Published: March 2015

OBJECT

World Health Organization Grade 2 meningiomas are aggressive tumors associated with a high recurrence rate leading to repeated surgical procedures, which can seriously worsen a patient's neurological status. Although radiosurgery is an increasingly popular technique, its role in the management of Grade 2 meningiomas has yet to be defined. In this study the authors aimed to evaluate radiosurgery in achieving control of proven tumor progression occurring after resection of Grade 2 meningioma.

METHODS

This retrospective study included consecutive patients who, between 2000 and 2012, had undergone radiosurgery for radiologically proven progression of a previously surgically treated Grade 2 meningioma.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were eligible for analysis. There were 9 men and 18 women with a mean age of 59 years. The mean radiation dose was 15.2 Gy (range 12–21 Gy), and the mean target volume was 5.4 cm3(range 0.194–14.2 cm3). Thirty-four radiosurgical procedures were performed in the 27 patients. The mean progression-free survival after radiosurgery was 32.4 months among those with progression in a target irradiated volume and 26.4 months among those with progression in any intracranial meninges. With a mean follow-up of 56.4 months (range 12–108 months), the 12-, 24-, and 36-month actuarial local control rates for all patients were 75%, 52%, and 40%, respectively, and the regional control rates were 75%, 48%, and 33%. A single case of transient hemiparesis completely resolved without sequelae.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiosurgery appears to be a safe and effective treatment for the local control of delayed progression after resection of a Grade 2 meningioma. Higher radiation doses similar to those applied for malignant tumors should be recommended when possible.
Streamlining deep brain stimulation surgery by reversing the staging order
Authors: van Horne Craig G. , Vaughan Scott W. , Massari Carla , Bennett Michael , Asfahani Wissam S. Z. , Quintero Jorge E. , Gerhardt Greg A.
Published: March 2015

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is approved for several clinical indications; however, the sequencing of DBS surgery and the timeline for implementing stimulation therapy are not standardized. In over 140 cases so far, the authors have reversed the sequencing for staged implantation of DBS systems that was conducive to minimizing patient anxiety and discomfort while providing the opportunity to shorten the time between implantation and programming for therapeutic management of symptoms. Stage I was performed with the patient under general anesthesia and consisted of implantation of the pulse generator and lead extensions and placement of the bur holes. Stage II was completed 1–7 days later, using only local anesthesia, and included stereotactic frame-based microelectrode recordings, semi-microstimulation and macrostimulation, and testing and placement of the stimulating electrodes. Stage I lasted approximately 90 minutes, whereas Stage II lasted approximately 230 minutes. All patients tolerated the procedures and received a complete implanted system. Deep brain stimulation therapy was typically initiated on the same day as lead implantation. When sequencing was reversed and bur holes were placed during the first stage while a patient was under general anesthesia, the patient was able to tolerate the second awake stage and was able to begin stimulation therapy within 48 hours of the second stage.
Dr. Arvid Lindau and discovery of von Hippel-Lindau disease
Authors: Huntoon Kristin , Oldfield Edward H. , Lonser Russell R.
Published: March 2015

Arvid Lindau, MD, PhD, consolidated the disparate array of benign and malignant visceral and nervous system lesions into the neoplastic syndrome known as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. Based on this pioneering work, Dr. Lindau was awarded both a Rockefeller fellowship to work in Dr. Harvey Cushing's laboratory in Boston, Massachusetts, and the Lennmalm Prize. While working in Dr. Cushing's laboratory, Dr. Lindau continued his study of CNS hemangioblastomas. His work with Dr. Cushing led to their lifelong friendship and scientific collaboration. In this paper the authors describe Arvid Lindau's pioneering work in nervous system tumor pathology, his relationship to Dr. Cushing, and his role in advancing neurological surgery and research in Europe.
‘Some Abstract Socialistic Ideal or Principle’: British Reactions to New Zealand's 1938 Social Security Act
Authors: Bryder Linda , Stewart John
Published: March 2015

This article, utilising British and New Zealand primary sources, examines the impact of New Zealand's 1938 Social Security Act on British health care reform. The Act, brought in by the Dominion's first Labour government, sought to socialize health care. It was opposed by most New Zealand and British doctors, organised by the British Medical Association in both countries; but supported by the political left in both New Zealand and Britain. This episode is neglected in the historiography of Britain's National Health Service but what happened in New Zealand significantly shaped British thinking about health care reform in the late 1930s and 1940s.
From Bargaining Solutions to Claims Rules: A Proportional Approach
Authors: Giménez-Gómez José-Manuel , Osório António , Peris Josep
Published: March 2015

Agents involved in a conflicting claims problem may be concerned with the proportion of their claims that is satisfied, or with the total amount they get. In order to relate both perspectives, we associate to each conflicting claims problem a bargaining-in-proportions set. Then, we obtain a correspondence between classical bargaining solutions and usual claims rules. In particular, we show that the constrained equal losses, the truncated constrained equal losses and the contested garment (Babylonian Talmud) rules can be obtained throughout the Nash bargaining solution.
Response to Huang et al. Comments on Lu et al. Association between Self-Reported Global Sleep Status and Prevalence of Hypertension in Chinese Adults: Data from Kailuan Community. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2015, 12, 488–503
Authors: Lu Kai , Ding Rongjing , Tang Qin , Chen Jia , Wang Li , Wang Changying , Wu Shouling , Hu Dayi
Published: March 2015

We thank Huang et al. [1] for their interest in reading our article and their time in writing their comments on our work [2]. Our response to their concerns are as follows:[...]
Correction: Xie, H.; et al. 3D QSAR Studies, Pharmacophore Modeling and Virtual Screening on a Series of Steroidal Aromatase Inhibitors. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2014, 15, 20927–20947
Authors: Xie Huiding , Qiu Kaixiong , Xie Xiaoguang
Published: March 2015

A number of sentences in the first paragraph of the introduction of [28] were copied verbatim from [21,22,25,29]. Although [21,22,25] were cited in the text, [29] was omitted and it was not made sufficiently clear that direct quotations were used. The authors wish to apologize to the authors of [21,22,25,29] and to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience.[...]
Valuation of Ecosystem Services from Wetlands Mitigation in the United States
Authors: Adusumilli Naveen
Published: March 2015

Section 404 of the U.S. Clean Water Act includes most wetlands in its jurisdiction and requires wetland mitigation to compensate for permitted wetland losses. These mitigation wetlands can provide ecosystem services similar to original wetlands if properly constructed. Improvement of wetland monitoring requirements coupled with economic assessment is critical for effective implementation of the mitigation policy. The economic assessment when left out of evaluation of mitigation policy could result in mitigation wetlands being given too little weight in policy decisions. Under the assumption that mitigation requirements reported in the Army Corps permit files represent actual wetland creation, ecosystem services value is estimated using a wetland benefit‑function transfer approach. Wetland mitigation requirements during 2010–2012 recorded in the Army Corps permit files is used for the analysis. The results indicate that cumulative ecosystem services value per acre per year is in the range of $5000 to $70,000, which translates to a nationwide annual aggregate benefit of $2.7 billion. Given the history of the ecosystem services not fully captured nor adequately quantified, the current analysis is an initial step in understanding the value of wetland mitigation.
Anticancer Activity of Sea Cucumber Triterpene Glycosides
Authors: Aminin Dmitry , Menchinskaya Ekaterina , Pisliagin Evgeny , Silchenko Alexandra , Avilov Sergey , Kalinin Vladimir
Published: March 2015

Triterpene glycosides are characteristic secondary metabolites of sea cucumbers (Holothurioidea, Echinodermata). They have hemolytic, cytotoxic, antifungal, and other biological activities caused by membranotropic action. These natural products suppress the proliferation of various human tumor cell lines in vitro and, more importantly, intraperitoneal administration in rodents of solutions of some sea cucumber triterpene glycosides significantly reduces both tumor burden and metastasis. The anticancer molecular mechanisms include the induction of tumor cell apoptosis through the activation of intracellular caspase cell death pathways, arrest of the cell cycle at S or G2/M phases, influence on nuclear factors, NF-κB, and up-down regulation of certain cellular receptors and enzymes participating in cancerogenesis, such as EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), Akt (protein kinase B), ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinases), FAK (focal adhesion kinase), MMP-9 (matrix metalloproteinase-9) and others. Administration of some glycosides leads to a reduction of cancer cell adhesion, suppression of cell migration and tube formation in those cells, suppression of angiogenesis, inhibition of cell proliferation, colony formation and tumor invasion. As a result, marked growth inhibition of tumors occurs in vitro and in vivo. Some holothurian triterpene glycosides have the potential to be used as P-gp mediated MDR reversal agents in combined therapy with standard cytostatics.