bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of Cerebral Vasculopathy by Transcranial Doppler in Children With Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Paschoal Joelma Karin Sagica Fernandes , Paschoal Fernando Mendes , de Lima Fernanda Teresa , Pinho Ricardo Silva , Vilanova Luiz Celso Pereira , Bor-Seng-Shu Edson , Masruha Marcelo Rodrigues
Published: July 2015

Neurofibromatosis type 1 is characterized by nerve sheath neurofibromas associated with a number of additional clinical features, including cerebrovascular disease. The aim of this study was to use transcranial Doppler as a screening method for identifying cerebral vasculopathy in children with neurofibromatosis type 1. Forty children with neurofibromatosis type 1, aged 5 to 18 years old, were examined by transcranial Doppler. Patients presenting with hemodynamic features of arterial stenosis/occlusion on transcranial Doppler underwent magnetic resonance angiography to confirm the findings. Magnetic resonance angiography was performed on 4 children who exhibited a transcranial Doppler hemodynamic pattern indicative of cerebral vasculopathy. Among these cases, 2 presented internal carotid artery stenosis/occlusion, 1 had bilateral middle cerebral artery stenosis, and 1 presented a normal magnetic resonance angiography result. Transcranial Doppler can be used routinely in the investigation of cerebrovascular disease in neurofibromatosis type 1 patients, where magnetic resonance angiography can be subsequently applied to confirm the diagnosis, further contributing to the prevention of cerebrovascular events.
Experimental study of a cooling scheme for a turbine blade trailing edge
Authors: Beniaiche Ahmed , Ghenaiet Adel , Carcasci Carlo , Pievarolli Marco , Facchini Bruno
Published: July 2015

The gas turbine blade trailing edge (TE) is one of the critical parts requiring complex cooling schemes to maintain the metal temperature at a level consistent with the blade life span. In this paper, the non-intrusive thermochromic liquid crystal (TLC) technique was used to measure the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) in an innovative cooling scheme of the TE of a rotating blade. For this purpose, a scaled model 30:1 was designed to reproduce a wedge shaped discharging TE composed of seven enlarged pedestals. For the two ribbed configurations and for closed and open tip, the average Nusselt number is correlated as a function of Reynolds number from 10,000 to 40,000, Prandtl number, Rossby number varied up to 0.15 and a fraction of blade height. The derived correlations may serve to assess the cooling effectiveness of a blade TE in a real gas turbine application.
Treatment with cucurbitacin B alone and in combination with gefitinib induces cell cycle inhibition and apoptosis via EGFR and JAK/STAT pathway in human colorectal cancer cell lines
Authors: Yar Saglam AS , Alp E , Elmazoglu Z , Menevse S
Published: July 2015

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) associated with signaling pathways, such as Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), plays an important role in colorectal cancers (CRCs). Gefitinib (Gef) is an orally active inhibitor targeting the adenosine tri phosphate-binding domain of EGFR, and cucurbitacin B (CuB) is a selective inhibitor of JAK/STAT signaling with potent antitumor activity via suppression of STAT3 phosphorylation, but the underlying mechanism is not clear. We aimed to investigate the apoptotic and antiproliferative effects of CuB as a single agent and in combination with Gef on both HT-29 and HCT-116 cell lines. Cell proliferation, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis were evaluated using viability assay, fluorescent microscopy, cytotoxicity assay, proliferation, DNA fragmentation, and cleaved caspase 3 levels. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression of relevant genes and proteins including antiapoptotic, proapoptotic, and cell cycle regulation. EGFR, phosphorylated EGFR (pEGFR), STAT3, and pSTAT3 proteins were evalutaed with Western blot analysis. Our results showed that, compared to CuB alone, CuB plus Gef treatment caused a significant growth and cell cycle inhibition and induced apoptosis in both cell lines. Also CuB plus Gef treatment decreased DNA synthesis rate more effectively than CuB alone. Treatment with CuB alone and in combination with Gef decreased the expression levels of B-Cell CLL/Lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), BCL2-like 1 (BCL2L1), cyclin D1, pSTAT3, and pEGFR and increased the expression levels of Bcl-2-like protein 4, Bcl-2 homologous antagonist/killer, Bcl-2-associated death promoter, Bcl-2-like protein 11, and p27kip1 levels. Our results suggest that treatment with CuB alone and more likely in combination with Gef may be a considerable alternative therapeutic approach for CRC, at least in vitro.
Rate of Family Violence Among Patients With Schizophrenia in Japan
Authors: Kageyama Masako , Yokoyama Keiko , Nagata Satoko , Kita Sachiko , Nakamura Yukako , Kobayashi Sayaka , Solomon Phyllis
Published: July 2015

Family violence is a serious concern in the era of deinstitutionalization in Japan. Consequently, we aimed to clarify the rate of family violence among patients with schizophrenia, and differences by sex and relationship to the patient. We asked households belonging to a family group association to complete a self-administered mail survey. Of 350 households that responded, data for 302 were analyzed. The rate of violence toward any family member was 60.9% over the lifetime and 27.2% in the past year. Order of lifetime rates for family members from highest to lowest was 51.0% for mothers, 47.0% for fathers, 30.7% for younger sisters, 23.8% for spouses, 19.5% for younger brothers, 18.2% for older sisters, 17.1% for older brothers, and none for children. Younger sisters were more likely to be victims compared to other siblings. Fathers and older brothers were likely to be victims when patients were male.
Analytical validation of a high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T assay in horses
Authors: Van Der Vekens Nicky , van Dievoet Marie-Astrid , De Puydt Hendrik , Decloedt Annelies , Ven Sofie , De Clercq Dominique , Deprez Piet , van Loon Gunther
Published: July 2015

Although cardiac troponin T (cTnT) assays have been used to detect myocardial damage in horses, a cTnT assay has not been analytically validated, to our knowledge. The aims of this study were to estimate the precision of a high-sensitivity cTnT assay in horses and determine the effect of hemolysis on the measured cTnT concentration. Serum samples from horses were mixed in 3 different pools. Pool 1 consisted of samples from 3 healthy horses, pool 2 from 6 horses with heart failure or atypical myopathy, and pool 3 from 10 horses with atypical myopathy. The within- and between-run coefficients of variation were determined for each pool. Pools 2 and 3 were diluted to estimate linearity. To study the influence of sample hemolysis, serum was collected from 4 horses with a high cTnT concentration, in which hemolysis was mechanically induced. In addition, ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid blood tubes were collected from 3 other horses, from which hemolysate was prepared and added to plasma at different concentrations. The within- and between-run coefficients of variation of all pools were <10%, and a good linearity was found. Three out of 4 hemolyzed serum samples had a decreased serum cTnT concentration. Plasma samples with a high hemolysis index showed a negative interference, resulting in a lower cTnT concentration. Results of the high-sensitivity cTnT assay were highly reproducible. Because samples from horses with musculoskeletal damage were included, further studies should test the possible cross-reactivity between troponin T of musculoskeletal and cardiac origin before the assay can be used in equine clinical practice.
European interlaboratory comparison of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) real-time RT-PCR detection in experimental and field samples
Authors: Schulz Claudia , van der Poel Wim H. M. , Ponsart Claire , Cay Ann Brigitte , Steinbach Falko , Zientara Stéphan , Beer Martin , Hoffmann Bernd
Published: July 2015

Molecular methods for the detection of Schmallenberg virus (SBV) RNA were rapidly developed after the emergence of this novel orthobunyavirus in Europe. The SBV epizootic wave has declined, but infectious SBV in SBV RNA–positive semen remains a possible risk for the distribution of SBV. However, the abilities of SBV molecular detection methods used at European laboratories have not yet been assessed, to our knowledge. The performances of extraction and real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) methods used at 27 German and 17 other European laboratories for SBV RNA detection in the matrices of whole blood, serum, tissue homogenate, RNA eluates, and bovine semen were evaluated in 2 interlaboratory trials with special emphasis on semen extraction methods. For reliable detection of viral genome in bovine semen samples, highly effective extraction methods are essential to cope with the potential inhibitory effects of semen components on PCR results. All methods used by the 44 laboratories were sufficiently robust to detect SBV RNA with high diagnostic sensitivity (100%) and specificity (95.8%) in all matrices, except semen. The trials demonstrated that the published recommended semen extraction methods (Hoffmann et al. 2013) and a combination of TRIzol LS with an alternative extraction kit have a considerably higher diagnostic sensitivity to detect SBV RNA in semen up to a detection limit of Cq ≤35 compared to other extraction methods used. A thorough validation of extraction methods with standardized semen batches is essential before their use for SBV RNA detection in bovine semen.
Coordinate expression of cytokeratins 7 and 14, vimentin, and Bcl-2 in canine cutaneous epithelial tumors and cysts
Authors: Pieper Jason B. , Stern Adam W. , LeClerc Suzette M. , Campbell Karen L.
Published: July 2015

Forty-seven canine cutaneous epithelial tumors and cysts were examined to determine coordinate expression of cytokeratins 7 (CK7) and 14 (CK14), vimentin, and Bcl-2 using commercially available antibodies. Within non-affected normal skin adjacent to tumors or cysts, CK7 expression was observed in luminal cells in apocrine glands; CK14 expression was observed in the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, basal layer of outer root sheath, sebaceous glands, and myoepithelial cells of apocrine glands; vimentin expression was observed in dermal papilla and scattered non-epithelial cells within the epidermis; and Bcl-2 expression was observed in scattered non-epithelial cells in the epidermis and some apocrine glands. The pattern of expression of CK7 and CK14 in cases of adenocarcinoma of the apocrine gland of the anal sac (CK7+/CK14–) and hepatoid gland tumors (CK7–/CK14+) may prove useful for diagnostic purposes. Loss of expression of CK14 and vimentin, identifying myoepithelial cells, was observed in apocrine and ceruminous adenocarcinomas. Differences in patterns of expression of Bcl-2 were observed between infundibular keratinizing acanthomas compared to trichoepitheliomas.
Causal Mediation Analysis
Authors: Keele Luke
Published: July 2015

In policy evaluations, interest may focus on why a particular treatment works. One tool for understanding why treatments work is causal mediation analysis. In this essay, I focus on the assumptions needed to estimate mediation effects. I show that there is no “gold standard” method for the identification of causal mediation effects. In particular, mediation effects will always have the character of estimates from observational data since they are generally subject to a specific form of confounding. Additionally, I demonstrate how randomization of the mediator and instrumental variables methods lead to fundamentally different quantities than causal mediation analyses. I also review recent work that discusses how the assumptions of mediation analyses differ when there is treatment noncompliance or when there are multiple mediators. Throughout, I motivate concepts using path diagrams and an example of a classroom intervention designed to increase test scores.
Effects of a Stress-Management Program for Inpatients With Mental Disorders
Authors: Klainin-Yobas Piyanee , Ignacio Jeanette , He Hong-Gu , Lau Ying , Ngooi Bi Xia , Koh Soo Quee David
Published: July 2015

Stress-management interventions have been integrated into treatments for people with mental disorders. Nevertheless, most studies on these interventions have been conducted on patients with schizophrenia in Western countries, and limited studies have used objective measurements of stress. We developed a group-based, four-session stress-management (S-Manage) program for people with mental disorders, consisting of two major components: psychoeducation and relaxation practice. This single-group, pretest–posttest, quasi-experimental study was undertaken to test the initial effects and determine the effect sizes of the program. A convenience sample of 55 inpatients were recruited from a mental health ward at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Self-report questionnaires and physiological measures of stress (skin temperature and salivary immunoglobulin A [SIgA]) were used for data collection. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and repeated-measures analysis of variance. Most participants were Singaporean, female, single, and employed. Diagnoses included schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and mixed diagnoses. All received standard care provided by the hospital. Participants had significant reductions in objective stress, measured by skin temperature (effect size = 0.54) and SIgA (effect size = 0.16), and subjective stress (effect size = 0.16) as well as improved psychological health (effect size = 0.40) in response to the intervention. This study provides preliminary evidence to support the positive effects of the S-Manage program on people with mental disorders. Future studies should further test the efficacy of the program using more rigorous methods such as randomized controlled trial and multicenter study.
A 12-Year Experience With Chimney and Periscope Grafts for Treatment of Type I Endoleaks
Authors: Montelione Nunzio , Pecoraro Felice , Puippe Gilbert , Chaykovska Lyubov , Rancic Zoran , Pfammatter Thomas , Mayer Dieter , Amann-Vesti Beatrice , Husmann Marc J. , Veith Frank J. , Mangialardi Nicola , Lachat Mario
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To evaluate the midterm outcomes of chimney and/or periscope grafts (CPGs) in patients presenting type I endoleak after a previous endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: Between June 2002 and April 2014, 24 consecutive patients (mean age 73.9±9.2 years; 23 men) presenting a type I endoleak were addressed with CPGs to extend the proximal and/or distal landing zone and to maintain side branch perfusion. Indication for treatment was a type Ia endoleak in 23 (96%) patients and a type Ib endoleak in one. Median interval from the previous EVAR to endoleak treatment with CPGs was 52.2±48.9 months (range 0.2–179). All patients had proximal/distal landing zones precluding any standard endovascular reintervention. Measured outcomes included technical success and perioperative mortality and morbidity. Technical success was defined as a procedure completed as intended, with no secondary procedures within 30 days. Midterm outcomes included survival, CPG patency, endoleaks, and freedom from reintervention. Results: Technical success was 96%; a single patient required an additional procedure to seal a recurrent type Ia endoleak. Intraoperative revascularization of all 55 target vessels (2.3/patient) with CPGs was successful. One (4%) patient died within 30 days. Estimated survival at 12, 24, and 36 months was 83%; estimated CPG patency at the same intervals was 94%. Over a mean follow-up of 23.4±29 months, 6 (25%) reinterventions were performed; of these, 4 were secondary to type I endoleak. Aneurysm diameters reduced from 88.3±26 to 85.5±33 mm (p=0.49) over the mean follow-up. Conclusion: The CPG technique is a safe and effective tool for treatment of type I endoleak after previous EVAR. The CPG technique is feasible even in nonelective patients, with excellent outcomes in terms of patency. Close imaging follow-up is warranted to rule out recurrent or de novo endoleaks.
Implantation of an Iliac Branch Device After EVAR via a Femoral Approach Using a Steerable Sheath
Authors: Oberhuber Alexander , Duran Mansur , Ertaş Neslihan , Simon Florian , Schelzig Hubert
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To describe a contralateral femoral approach for iliac branch device implantation using a steerable sheath in the setting of an existing bifurcated stent-graft. Technique: The method is demonstrated in an 80-year-old man who developed a 4-cm iliac aneurysm 3 years after implantation of an Endurant bifurcated stent-graft. Both femoral arteries were cannulated after surgical cutdown. The steerable sheath was advanced from the contralateral side over the neobifurcation of the bifurcated stent-graft. A 0.014-inch Roadrunner wire was used as a through-and-through wire to stabilize the curve of the sheath and to get proper push. The bridging stent-graft for the iliac branch was advanced over this sheath to seal the iliac aneurysm. During the entire procedure, the sheath was stable over the neobifurcation without pulling it down. Conclusion: The contralateral femoral approach for iliac branch graft implantation is feasible in cases with an extant bifurcated stent-graft using a steerable sheath and a through-and-through wire.
Immediate Change in Suprarenal Neck Angulation After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Georgakarakos Efstratios , Ioannou Christos V. , Trellopoulos George , Kontopodis Nikolaos , Papachristodoulou Athanasia , Torsello Giovanni , Bisdas Theodosios
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To compare the immediate suprarenal neck angulation change between the Ovation stent-graft, with its inflatable sealing rings, and a stent-graft with a conventional sealing mechanism. Methods: A case-control study was conducted in which 30 consecutive patients (mean age 67 years; all men) with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) treated with the Ovation stent-graft (group O) were retrospectively compared with 24 patients (mean age 77 years; all men) contemporaneously treated with the Endurant stent-graft (group E) at 3 high-volume tertiary vascular centers. The variables recorded were the aortic neck length, preoperative and postoperative angulation, minimum and maximum diameters of the infrarenal neck, as well as the maximum AAA diameter. All patients had undergone preoperative and postoperative (within 30 days) computed tomographic angiography. Multiple regression analysis compared the relative contribution to neck angulation change of each geometric parameter and the type of endograft. Data are presented as the mean ± standard deviation. Results: The mean preoperative suprarenal neck angulation in group O was 23.2°±18.0° compared with 23.8°±22.9° in group E ( t test, p=0.91). The neck lengths were 29.2±14.6 and 23.2±11.0 mm in groups O and E, respectively (p=0.1). Similarly, the minimum and maximum neck diameters were 22.4±2.6 and 25±3.5 mm, respectively, in group O vs 23.3±3.6 mm and 27.0±5.7 mm, respectively, in group E (p=0.3 and 0.12, respectively). The maximum transverse diameters of the AAA in the 2 groups were comparable, that is, 57.0±9.0 mm in group O vs 53.2±11.1 mm in group E (p=0.17). The Ovation stent-graft caused greater decrease in the aortic neck angulation postoperatively compared with the Endurant device (13.2°±16.1° vs 6.1°±5.9°, p=0.04). Multiple regression analysis revealed that preoperative neck angulation (β coefficient 0.37, p<0.001) and the type of endograft (β coefficient −7.91, p=0.01) had significant influence on the postoperative neck angulation change. The intraclass correlation coefficient ranged from 0.951 to 0.990 for the preoperative measurements and from 0.911 to 0.999 for the postoperative measurements for each examiner or the total of estimates at the measurement time points. Conclusion: The Ovation stent-graft induces greater postoperative reduction in the AAA neck angulation compared to an endograft with stent-supported graft seal. Expanded research to infrarenal angle as well to greater angles and correlation to clinical events is justified.
Laser Atherectomy for Treatment of Femoropopliteal In-Stent Restenosis
Authors: Armstrong Ehrin J. , Thiruvoipati Thejasvi , Tanganyika Kundai , Singh Gagan D. , Laird John R.
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To investigate if laser atherectomy with adjunctive balloon angioplasty can improve endovascular treatment outcomes for femoropopliteal in-stent restenosis (ISR). Methods: A dual center study included 135 symptomatic patients (mean age 71 years; 76 men) who underwent endovascular treatment of femoropopliteal ISR between 2006 and 2013. Of these, 54 (40%) were treated with laser atherectomy and the remaining 81 patients with balloon angioplasty alone. Angiographic images were reviewed for lesion morphology and characteristics, TransAtlantic InterSociety Consensus (TASC) II classification, and distal runoff. Class I ISR was defined as focal lesions ≤50 mm, class II ISR as lesions >50 mm, and class III ISR as stent total occlusion. Recurrent ISR was determined by a peak systolic velocity ratio >2.4 by duplex ultrasound. Results: Patients treated with laser atherectomy had longer mean ISR lesion length (222 vs 114 mm, p<0.001) and more class III ISR (69% vs 20%, p=0.001). There was no association between laser atherectomy and rates of recurrent restenosis or occlusion for patients with class I/II ISR, but there was a significantly lower rate of target lesion revascularization at 2 years among patients treated with laser atherectomy (14% vs 44%, p=0.05). In comparison, patients with class III ISR treated with laser atherectomy had lower rates of recurrent restenosis at 1 year (54% vs 91%, p=0.05) and 2 years (69% vs 100%, p=0.05). Patients with class III ISR treated with laser atherectomy also had lower rates of recurrent in-stent occlusion at 2-year follow-up (33% vs 71%, p=0.04). Conclusion: When used to treat complex ISR, including in-stent occlusions, laser atherectomy with adjunctive balloon angioplasty may be associated with improved patency.
Endovascular Repair of Saccular Ascending Aortic Aneurysm After Orthotopic Heart Transplantation Using an Investigational Zenith Ascend Stent-Graft
Authors: Oderich Gustavo S. , Pochettino Alberto , Mendes Bernardo C. , Roeder Blayne , Pulido Juan , Gloviczki Peter
Published: July 2015

Purpose: To report the use of an investigational stent-graft to treat an ascending aortic aneurysm in a patient with a heart transplant. Case Report: A 48-year-old man presented with a 3.5×1.5-cm saccular aneurysm in the mid anterior ascending aorta, abutting the sternum. The patient’s history was notable for placement of a left ventricular assist device followed by orthotopic heart transplantation 2 years prior to treat end-stage familial dilated cardiomyopathy. Under compassionate use, a custom-designed ascending aortic stent-graft (Zenith Ascend) was successfully delivered via an 18-F system and deployed just distal to the origin of the left main coronary artery under pulmonary artery catheter–guided rapid ventricular pacing. The patient was discharged the next day, and 6-month follow-up was unremarkable. Imaging at 5 months showed an excluded aneurysm sac with no endoleak or migration. Conclusion: The ideal ascending aortic stent-graft should be low profile, conformable to the arch anatomy, with short tip delivery system and a stepwise deployment mechanism that allows precise placement relative to the ostia of the coronary arteries and the innominate artery. This case illustrates the advancement of endovascular techniques to the most challenging segment of the aorta to decrease morbidity and mortality in high-risk patients.
Thermal protection retention of fire protective clothing after repeated flash fire exposure
Authors: Wang Min , Li Jun
Published: July 2015

Fire protective clothing worn by the emergency responders may be exposed to intensive heat condition time and time again during a firefighting work. In this research, the level of thermal protection retained by the fire protective clothing after repeated exposures to flash fire was investigated from bench-scale test to full-scale test. A thermal protective performance tester and an instrumented manikin with a transverse motion system device which was capable of simulating the action of running across the flame were used for the exposure test. Physical properties (mass, thickness, thermal shrinkage, tear strength) and thermal protective property of the test specimens were examined after each exposure. The results showed that repeated heat exposures resulted in continuous decrease of mechanical performance of the fabrics. The thermal protective performance of fabrics with good thermal dimensional stability such as polybenzimidazole/Kevlar and flame resistant cotton decreased after exposure. For the fabrics with severe thermal shrinkage such as Nomex IIIA and polysulfonamide, the thermal protective performance was improved due to the increase of fabric thickness induced by thermal shrinkage. However, this positive effect of thermal shrinkage diminished in the manikin test as it decreased the air gap size between the garment and flame manikin. The thermal protective property of Nomex IIIA garment exhibited continuous decrease after repeated exposures. This study was expected to provide new sights for the performance evaluation and application of fire protective clothing.
Emergency Preparedness Plan
Authors: Randolph Susan A.
Published: July 2015

Although some disasters can be predicted, others may occur without much warning. The occupational and environmental health nurse should be involved in all aspects of an emergency response plan.
In vitro-generated MDSCs prevent murine GVHD by inducing type 2 T cells without disabling antitumor cytotoxicity
Authors: Messmann Joanna J. , Reisser Tanja , Leithäuser Frank , Lutz Manfred B. , Debatin Klaus-Michael , Strauss Gudrun
Published: July 2015

Key Points

MDSC treatment prevents GVHD by skewing T cells toward type 2 T cells. MDSCs proliferate in vivo, suppress independent of major histocompatibility complex class I expression, and do not impair allogeneic T-cell homing and the graft-versus-tumor effect.
A Database for the Experimental Study of Earthquake-Induced Liquefaction and Lateral Spreading in Sands
Authors: Abdoun Tarek , El-Sekelly Waleed , Dobry Ricardo , Thevanayagam Sabanayagam , Gonzalez Marcelo
Published: July 2015

Centrifuge and large-scale testing in geotechnical engineering are very useful tools for modeling soil behavior under different loading conditions, particularly under earthquake loading. The paper presents an extensive database of nine centrifuge and large-scale liquefaction experiments performed both at the geotechnical centrifuge testing facility at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) and the large-scale testing facility at the University at Buffalo (UB). The database described herein was generated using the NEEShub online DataStore tool under the name “CENSEIS: Centrifuge and Large (Full)-Scale Modeling of Seismic Pore Pressures in Sands” (DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4231/D3GF0MX4F ). The paper discusses the tools and materials used in the experiments along with an explanation of each item in the database. Sample analyses are also presented in the paper to give an insight on the capabilities of the database for numerical and analytical applications. The paper is concluded with some possible applications along with tips and limitations of the database.
Seismic Hazard and Loss Analysis for Spatially Distributed Infrastructure in Christchurch, New Zealand
Authors: Manzour Hasan , Davidson Rachel A. , Horspool Nick , Nozick Linda K.
Published: July 2015

The new Extended Optimization-Based Probabilistic Scenario method produces a small set of probabilistic ground motion maps to represent the seismic hazard for analysis of spatially distributed infrastructure. We applied the method to Christchurch, New Zealand, including a sensitivity analysis of key user-specified parameters. A set of just 124 ground motion maps were able to match the hazard curves based on a million-year Monte Carlo simulation with no error at the four selected return periods, mean spatial correlation errors of 0.03, and average error in the residential loss exceedance curves of 2.1%. This enormous computational savings in the hazard has substantial implications for regional-scale, policy decisions affecting lifelines or building inventories since it can allow many more downstream analyses and/or doing them using more sophisticated, computationally intensive methods. The method is robust, offering many equally good solutions and it can be solved using free open source optimization solvers.
Seismic Performance of WUF-W Moment Connections According to Access Hole Geometries
Authors: Han Sang Whan , Jung Jin , Ha Sung Jin
Published: July 2015

The welded unreinforced flange-welded web (WUF-W) moment connection is an all-welded moment connection, which is one of the prequalified connections for the special moment frame (SMF) specified in AISC 358-10. However, previous experimental studies reported that WUF-W connections with a beam depth of 890 mm failed as a result of brittle beam flange fracture and did not satisfy the requirement for the SMF connection specified in AISC 341-10. In this study, a finite element analysis (FEA) was conducted to investigate the cause of the brittle failure in the WUF-W connection. This study observed that the brittle failure occurred in WUF-W connections was mainly attributed to the access hole geometry. This study proposed the improved access hole geometry to prevent brittle failure from WUF-W connections. To verify the analysis results, this study conducted an experimental test using one WUF-W connection specimen with an improved access hole geometry.
Projected Clinical, Resource Use, and Fiscal Impacts of Implementing Low-Dose Computed Tomography Lung Cancer Screening in Medicare
Authors: Roth Joshua A. , Sullivan Sean D. , Goulart Bernardo H.L. , Ravelo Arliene , Sanderson Joanna C. , Ramsey Scott D.
Published: July 2015

Low-dose CT screening is expected to increase lung cancer diagnoses, shift stage at diagnosis toward earlier stages, and increase Medicare expenditures over a 5-year time horizon.
Baseline Estimates of Adherence to American Society of Clinical Oncology/American Board of Internal Medicine Choosing Wisely Initiative Among Patients With Cancer Enrolled With a Large Regional Commercial Health Insurer
Authors: Ramsey Scott D. , Fedorenko Catherine , Chauhan Rakesh , McGee Richard , Lyman Gary H. , Kreizenbeck Karma , Bansal Aasthaa
Published: July 2015

A structured approach to evaluating adherence and cost impact is needed before developing programs that are aimed at improving adherence to the American Society of Clinical Oncology Choosing Wisely measures.
“Write It Down Like You Told Me”: Transparent Records and My Oncology Practice
Authors: Martin Daniel B.
Published: July 2015

The author concludes that providing all the information a patient can choose to use in an accessible format facilitates better communication and collaboration between patients and their providers.
Choosing Treatments on the Basis of Cost: Can Clinicians Opt for Less Expensive Treatments?
Authors: Reddy Prabashni , Blouin Gayle C. , Yeh Yu-Chen , Burstein Harold J.
Published: July 2015

Providers, payers, health systems, and other stakeholders need to continue to question the incremental value of new therapies.
Inpatient Hematology-Oncology Rotation Is Associated With a Decreased Interest in Pursuing an Oncology Career Among Internal Medicine Residents
Authors: McFarland Daniel C. , Holland Jimmie , Holcombe Randall F.
Published: July 2015

An inpatient hematology-oncology ward rotation does not lead to increased interest and, for some residents, may lead to decreased interest in the field.
Predictors of Long-Term Quality of Life for Survivors of Stage II/III Rectal Cancer in the Cancer Care Outcomes Research and Surveillance Consortium
Authors: Charlton Mary E. , Stitzenberg Karyn B. , Lin Chi , Schlichting Jennifer A. , Halfdanarson Thorvardur R. , Juarez Grelda Yazmin , Pendergast Jane F. , Chrischilles Elizabeth A. , Wallace Robert B.
Published: July 2015

Neoadjuvant treatment may result in better quality of life and functional status 1 year after diagnosis.
Iron Supplementation Associated With Loss of Phenotype in Autosomal Dominant Hypophosphatemic Rickets
Authors: Kapelari Klaus , Köhle Julia , Kotzot Dieter , Högler Wolfgang
Published: July 2015

Context:

Autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR) is the only hereditary disorder of renal phosphate wasting in which patients may regain the ability to conserve phosphate. Low iron status plays a role in the pathophysiology of ADHR.

Objective:

This study reports of a girl with ADHR, iron deficiency, and a paternal history of hypophosphatemic rickets that resolved without treatment. The girl's biochemical phenotype resolved with iron supplementation.

Subjects:

A 26-month-old girl presented with typical features of hypophosphatemic rickets, short stature (79 cm; −2.82 SDS), and iron deficiency. Treatment with elemental phosphorus and calcitriol improved her biochemical profile and resolved the rickets. The girl's father had presented with rickets at age 11 months but never received medication. His final height was reduced (154.3 cm; −3.51 SDS), he had undergone corrective leg surgery and had an adult normal phosphate, fibroblast growth factor 23, and iron status. Father and daughter were found to have a heterozygous mutation in exon 3 of the FGF23 gene (c.536G>A, p.Arg179Gln), confirming ADHR.

Intervention:

Withdrawal of rickets medication was attempted off and on iron supplementation.

Results:

Withdrawal of rickets medication in the girl was unsuccessful in the presence of low-normal serum iron levels at age 5.6 years but was later successful in the presence of high-normal serum iron levels following high-dose iron supplementation.

Conclusions:

We report an association between iron supplementation and a complete loss of biochemical ADHR phenotype, allowing withdrawal of rickets medication. Experience from this case suggests that reduction and withdrawal of rickets medication should be attempted only after iron status has been optimized.
The generation and characterization of novelCol1a1FRT-Cre-ER-T2-FRTandCol1a1FRT-STOP-FRT-Cre-ER-T2mice for sequential mutagenesis
Authors: Zhang Minsi , Kirsch David G.
Published: July 2015

Novel genetically engineered mouse models using the Cre-loxP or the Flp-FRT systems have generated useful reagents to manipulate the mouse genome in a temporally-regulated and tissue specific manner. By incorporating a constitutive Cre driver line into a mouse model in which FRT-regulated genes in other cells types are regulated by Flp-FRT recombinase, gene expression can be manipulated simultaneously in separate tissue compartments. This application of dual recombinase technology can be used to dissect the role of stromal cells in tumor development and cancer therapy. Generating mice in which Cre-ERT2 is expressed under Flp-FRT-mediated regulation would enable step-wise manipulation of the mouse genome using dual recombinase technology. Such next-generation mouse models would enable sequential mutagenesis to better model cancer and define genes required for tumor maintenance. Here, we generated novel genetically engineered mice that activate or delete Cre-ERT2 in response to Flp recombinase. To potentially utilize the large number of Cre-loxP regulated transgenic alleles that have already been targeted into the Rosa26 locus, such as different reporters and mutant genes, we targeted the two novel Cre-ERT2 alleles into the endogenous Col1a1 locus for ubiquitous expression. In the Col1a1FRT-Cre-ER-T2-FRT mice, Flp deletes Cre-ERT2, so that Cre-ERT2 is only expressed in cells which have never expressed Flp. In contrast, in the Col1a1FRT-STOP-FRT-Cre-ER-T2 mice, Flp removes the STOP cassette to allow Cre-ERT2 expression so that Cre-ERT2 is only expressed in cells that previously expressed Flp. These two new novel mouse strains will be complementary to each other and will enable the exploration of complex biological questions in development, normal tissue homeostasis, and cancer.
Electrochemical Performances of Zinc Oxide Electrodes Coated with Layered Double Hydroxides in Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Lee You-Shin , Miyazaki Kohei , Fukutsuka Tomokazu , Abe Takeshi
Published: July 2015

We introduced a coating layer of Mg-Al-based layered double hydroxides (Mg-Al LDHs) on zinc oxide composite electrodes, and investigated its effects on the charge–discharge performance as a zinc negative electrode in alkaline solutions. The coating layer with Mg-Al LDHs successfully improved the discharge capacities and suppressed the shape change of electrodes after continuous charge–discharge cycles.
Single Figure Publications: Towards a novel alternative format for scholarly communication
Authors: Do Long , Mobley William
Published: July 2015

The single figure publication is a novel, efficient format by which to communicate scholarly advances. It will serve as a forerunner of the nano-publication, a modular unit of information critical for machine-driven data aggregation and knowledge integration.
Demanda por futebol no Brasil e na Inglaterra
Authors: Lima Benevides Bruno Ítalo , Dos Santos Sandra Maria , De Aquino Cabral Augusto Cézar , Ribeiro Renata Aquino , De Souza Holt Natália Louisa
Published: July 2015

A indústria do futebol compreende uma gama de setores, visando adquirir insumos, transformá-los em produtos e distribuí-los. Considerando a cadeia produtiva do futebol, este estudo busca identificar fatores determinantes da demanda por jogos no Brasil e Inglaterra. Foram utilizados dados secundários a partir do IBGE, do Office for National Statistics (ONS), da CBF, Puri Consultoria, da BBC Sports Survey e do site Worldfootball. A pesquisa faz uma análise a partir dos 380 jogos ocorridos na temporada de 2013, tanto no Brasil quanto na Inglaterra. Para estimação da equação de demanda, usou-se o método de Mínimo Quadrado de Dois Estágios. O modelo teve como variável dependente o público pagante nos estádios. Os resultados evidenciaram que fatores econômicos e estruturais e qualidade da partida mostraram-se significantes para explicar a demanda no Brasil e Inglaterra. Destaca-se ainda que clubes ingleses são mais eficientes no que diz respeito a formar preços.
Periódicos e rankings de periódicos em Administração
Authors: Ferreira Manuel Portugal
Published: July 2015

Publicar é essencial para os pesquisadores e as universidades, e publicar em periódicos internacionais com revisão pelos pares e ranqueados é, pelo menos, uma ambição crescente dos pesquisadores brasileiros em Administração. Os rankings de periódicos são relevantes para os pesquisadores, universidades, agências reguladoras e instituições financiadoras. Os rankings de periódicos são usados diretamente na avaliação da qualidade dos artigos científicos dos pesquisadores e, indiretamente, contribuem para a avaliação da atratividade de uma universidade, ou programa, para estudantes, professores, reguladores e financiadores. Apesar de amplamente usados e informalmente debatidos, poucos pesquisadores conhecem os rankings, suas implicações e o que realmente significam. Neste artigo discuto algumas facetas dos rankings de periódicos em Administração, incluindo a sua utilidade, apresento alguns rankings, e debato problemas no sistema. Se os rankings de periódicos cada vez mais orientam os esforços dos pesquisadores, é necessário um debate mais alargado que incida sobre seus sistemas, virtudes e disfunções. Este debate permitirá, por um lado, desmistificar e, por outro, esclarecer à comunidade e, especialmente, aos menos conhecedores da importância de avaliar os periódicos antes de submeter suas pesquisas.
Modern Online Education in Russia: Problems And Prospects
Authors: Пронин  , Pronin E. , Положенцева  , Polozhentseva I.
Published: July 2015

Distance learning is not currently developed. Distance

learning needs wide dissemination, especially during the economic

crisis.
Influence of Activity Change on the Result of Training: Computer Modelling
Authors: Майер  , Mayer Robert
Published: July 2015

Three-component model of training Is studied considering that: 1) acquired knowledge can be divided into three categories according to the rate of forgetting; 2) speed of knowledge increase while training is proportional to working capacity of the pupil; 3) on activity change the working capacity of the pupil quickly increases andreaches its maximum, then slowly decreases.The offered imitation model of training allows proving that educational activity change rises average working capacity of the pupil and results of training.
Convergence Analysis for Distributionally Robust Optimization and Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Sun Hailin , Xu Huifu
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we study distributionally robust optimization approaches for a one-stage stochastic minimization problem, where the true distribution of the underlying random variables is unknown but it is possible to construct a set of probability distributions, which contains the true distribution and optimal decision is taken on the basis of the worst-possible distribution from that set. We consider the case when the distributional set (which is also known as the ambiguity set) varies and its impact on the optimal value and the optimal solutions. A typical example is when the ambiguity set is constructed through samples and we need to look into the impact of increasing the sample size. The analysis provides a unified framework for convergence of some problems where the ambiguity set is approximated in a process with increasing information on uncertainty and extends the classical convergence analysis in stochastic programming. The discussion is extended briefly to a stochastic Nash equilibrium problem where each player takes a robust action on the basis of the worst subjective expected objective values.
Parametric Forecasting and Stochastic Programming Models for Call-Center Workforce Scheduling
Authors: Gans Noah , Shen Haipeng , Zhou Yong-Pin , Korolev Nikolay , McCord Alan , Ristock Herbert
Published: July 2015

We develop and test an integrated forecasting and stochastic programming approach to workforce management in call centers. We first demonstrate that parametric forecasts, discretized using Gaussian quadrature, can be used to drive stochastic programs whose results are stable with relatively small numbers of scenarios. We then extend our approach to include forecast updates and two-stage stochastic programs with recourse and provide a general modeling framework for which recent, related models are special cases. In our formulations, the inclusion of multiple arrival-rate scenarios allows call centers to meet long-run average quality-of-service targets, and the use of recourse actions helps them to lower long-run average costs. Experiments with two large sets of call-center data highlight the complementary nature of these elements.
Państwowa Komisja Wyborcza w roku 1989
Authors: Zoll Andrzej
Published: July 2015

Można postawić tezę, że wybory z 4 czerwca 1989 r. miały dla przyszłości Polski znaczenie zasadnicze. Porozumienie zawarte przy Okrągłym Stole umożliwiało opozycji demokratycznej jedynie obecność w parlamencie i tym samym kontrolę aparatu władzy. Miało też przerzucić na opozycję część odpowiedzialności za państwo. Wynik wyborów spowodował, że obóz komunistyczny musiał władzę oddać w ręce dotychczasowej opozycji. W artykule przedstawiono wysiłki przedstawicieli Komitetu Obywatelskiego w Państwowej Komisji Wyborczej zmierzające do zabezpieczenia rzetelności wyborów. Jest to jednocześnie obraz powstawania w Polsce prawa wyborczego charakteryzującego demokratyczne państwo oraz tworzenia się kultury prawnej społeczeństwa.
Wyzwania dla Polski – 25 lat po odzyskaniu suwerenności
Authors: Kuźniar Roman
Published: July 2015

Ćwierćwiecze polskiej suwerenności – od upadku komunizmu – było sukcesem Polski zarówno w sferze przemian wewnętrznych, gospodarczych i politycznych, jak i sferze jej polityki zagranicznej i osiągniętej pozycji międzynarodowej. Osiągnięcia nie eliminują wyzwań. Żaden naród w żadnym momencie swego istnienia nie jest od nich wolny. Wśród wyzwań wewnętrznych, przed którymi stoi Polska, autor wymienia zapewnienie funkcjonalności systemu politycznego, europeizację Polski w sensie europejskich standardów życia społecznego oraz powstrzymanie zapaści demograficznej. Do europejskich wyzwań Polski autor zalicza przede wszystkim włączenie się do strefy euro, która staje się twardym rdzeniem integracji europejskiej. Ponadto ważna będzie jej aktywność na rzecz takiego kształtu instytucjonalnego i tożsamości UE, która zapewni jej witalność i zdolność do wpływania na jej otoczenie. Wreszcie, Polska musi zabiegać o europejski charakter Europy Wschodniej, która jest częścią jej historii i geopolitycznego sąsiedztwa.
Realizacja idei społecznej gospodarki rynkowej w polskim ustroju pracy
Authors: Skąpski Michał
Published: July 2015

Społeczna gospodarka rynkowa od początku zainicjowanych w 1989 r. w Polsce przemian politycznych i gospodarczych była modelem gospodarczym stanowiącym cel podjętej transformacji. W 1997 r. ten typ gospodarki stał się normatywną podstawą ustroju, na podstawie treści art. 20 nowej Konstytytucji.Upływ ćwierćwiecza przemian upoważnia do analizy efektów transformacji i porównania obowiązującej treści regulacji prawnej w dziedzinie zatrudnienia oraz praktyki rynku pracy do modelowych założeń ustroju społecznej gospodarki rynkowej.Stosunki społeczne regulowane przez zbiorowe prawo pracy, a więc aktywność związków zawodowych i organizacji pracodawców, negocjacje zbiorowe i tworzenie źródeł autonomicznego prawa pracy są w Polsce dziedzinami najbardziej odległymi od założeń społecznej gospodarki rynkowej. Zakładają one powstawanie partnerstwa społecznego, upodmiotowienie i włączenie załóg zakładów w dialog z pracodawcami dotyczący sytuacji zakładu, rozwiązywanie problemów w drodze negocjacji zbiorowych, których efektem będzie uchwalanie aktów autonomicznego prawa pracy. Te pozytywne zjawiska mają w Polsce nadal marginalne znaczenie.W artykule wskazano także problemy z realizacją idei społecznej gospodarki rynkowej w normach o praktyce indywidualnego prawa pracy. Tendencje legislacyjne ostatnich lat eksponują raczej dążenie do ekonomicznej efektywności przedsiębiorstw, także kosztem statusu pracowników, a nie typowe dla omawianego modelu gospodarki zrównoważone uwzględnianie potrzeb wszystkich podmiotów zaangażowanych działanie zakładu pracy.Mimo szacunku dla osiągnięć transformacji, która dokonała się w Polsce po 1989 r., trzeba wskazać na konieczność dążenia do pełnej realizacji założeń ustrojowych ustanowionych w art. 20 Konstytucji.