bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score: An Analysis of Reliability and Validity From the Spine Oncology Study Group
Authors: Fourney Daryl R. , Frangou Evan M. , Ryken Timothy C. , DiPaola Christian P. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Berven Sigurd H. , Bilsky Mark H. , Harrop James S. , Fehlings Michael G. , Boriani Stefano , Chou Dean , Schmidt Meic H. , Polly David W. , Biagini Roberto , Burch Shane , Dekutoski Mark B. , Ganju Aruna , Gerszten Peter C. , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Groff Michael W. , Liebsch Norbert J. , Mendel Ehud , Okuno Scott H. , Patel Shreyaskumar , Rhines Laurence D. , Rose Peter S. , Sciubba Daniel M. , Sundaresan Narayan , Tomita Katsuro , Varga Peter P. , Vialle Luiz R. , Vrionis Frank D. , Yamada Yoshiya , Fisher Charles G.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Standardized indications for treatment of tumor-related spinal instability are hampered by the lack of a valid and reliable classification system. The objective of this study was to determine the interobserver reliability, intraobserver reliability, and predictive validity of the Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score (SINS).

Methods

Clinical and radiographic data from 30 patients with spinal tumors were classified as stable, potentially unstable, and unstable by members of the Spine Oncology Study Group. The median category for each patient case (consensus opinion) was used as the gold standard for predictive validity testing. On two occasions at least 6 weeks apart, each rater also scored each patient using SINS. Each total score was converted into a three-category data field, with 0 to 6 as stable, 7 to 12 as potentially unstable, and 13 to 18 as unstable.

Results

The κ statistics for interobserver reliability were 0.790, 0.841, 0.244, 0.456, 0.462, and 0.492 for the fields of location, pain, bone quality, alignment, vertebral body collapse, and posterolateral involvement, respectively. The κ statistics for intraobserver reliability were 0.806, 0.859, 0.528, 0.614, 0.590, and 0.662 for the same respective fields. Intraclass correlation coefficients for inter- and intraobserver reliability of total SINS score were 0.846 (95% CI, 0.773 to 0.911) and 0.886 (95% CI, 0.868 to 0.902), respectively. The κ statistic for predictive validity was 0.712 (95% CI, 0.676 to 0.766).

Conclusion

SINS demonstrated near-perfect inter- and intraobserver reliability in determining three clinically relevant categories of stability. The sensitivity and specificity of SINS for potentially unstable or unstable lesions were 95.7% and 79.5%, respectively.
Occurrence of Multiple Subsequent Neoplasms in Long-Term Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Armstrong Gregory T. , Liu Wei , Leisenring Wendy , Yasui Yutaka , Hammond Sue , Bhatia Smita , Neglia Joseph P. , Stovall Marilyn , Srivastava Deokumar , Robison Leslie L.
Published: June 2011

Purpose

Childhood cancer survivors experience an increased incidence of subsequent neoplasms (SNs). Those surviving the first SN (SN1) remain at risk to develop multiple SNs. Because SNs are a common cause of late morbidity and mortality, characterization of rates of multiple SNs is needed.

Patients and Methods

In a total of 14,358 5-year survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed between 1970 and 1986, analyses were carried out among 1,382 survivors with an SN1. Cumulative incidence of second subsequent neoplasm (SN2), either malignant or benign, was calculated.

Results

A total of 1,382 survivors (9.6%) developed SN1, of whom 386 (27.9%) developed SN2. Of those with SN2, 153 (39.6%) developed more than two SNs. Cumulative incidence of SN2 was 46.9% (95% CI, 41.6% to 52.2%) at 20 years after SN1. The cumulative incidence of SN2 among radiation-exposed survivors was 41.3% (95% CI, 37.2% to 45.4%) at 15 years compared with 25.7% (95% CI, 16.5% to 34.9%) for those not treated with radiation. Radiation-exposed survivors who developed an SN1 of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) had a cumulative incidence of subsequent malignant neoplasm (SMN; ie, malignancies excluding NMSC) of 20.3% (95% CI, 13.0% to 27.6%) at 15 years compared with only 10.7% (95% CI, 7.2% to 14.2%) for those who were exposed to radiation and whose SN1 was an invasive SMN (excluding NMSC).

Conclusion

Multiple SNs are common among aging survivors of childhood cancer. SN1 of NMSC identifies a population at high risk for invasive SMN. Survivors not exposed to radiation who develop multiple SNs represent a population of interest for studying genetic susceptibility to neoplasia.
The cultural divide: exploring communication barriers between scientists and clinicians
Authors: Restifo Linda L. , Phelan Gerald R.
Published: June 2011

Despite remarkable advances in basic biomedical science that have led to improved patient care, there is a wide and persistent gap in the abilities of researchers and clinicians to understand and appreciate each other. In this Editorial, the authors, a scientist and a clinician, discuss the rift between practitioners of laboratory research and clinical medicine. Using their first-hand experience and numerous interviews throughout the United States, they explore the causes of this ‘cultural divide’. Members of both professions use advanced problem-solving skills and typically embark on their career paths with a deeply felt sense of purpose. Nonetheless, differences in classroom education, professional training environments, reward mechanisms and sources of drive contribute to obstacles that inhibit communication, mutual respect and productive collaboration. More than a sociological curiosity, the cultural divide is a significant barrier to the bench-to-bedside goals of translational medicine. Understanding its roots is the first step towards bridging the gap.
Strike Three: Discrimination, Incentives, and Evaluation
Authors: Parsons Christopher A , Sulaeman Johan , Yates Michael C , Hamermesh Daniel S
Published: June 2011

Major League Baseball umpires express their racial/ethnic prefer ences when they evaluate pitchers. Strikes are called less often if the umpire and pitcher do not match race/ethnicity, but mainly where there is little scrutiny of umpires. Pitchers understand the incentives and throw pitches that allow umpires less subjective judgment (e.g., fastballs over home plate) when they anticipate bias. These direct and indirect effects bias performance measures of minorities downward. The results suggest how discrimination alters discriminated groups' behavior generally. They imply that biases in measured productivity must be accounted for in generating measures of wage discrimination. (JEL J15, J31, J44, J71, L83)
Face Value
Authors: Eckel Catherine C , Petrie Ragan
Published: June 2011

People pay attention to the appearance of others, and personal characteristics can affect many types of decisions. We ask, is there informational value in a face in a situation where trust and reciprocity can increase earnings? We use a laboratory trust game experiment where subjects are unable to observe a counterpart, must observe a counterpart, or can pay to reveal a counterpart's photograph. Both senders and responders are willing to pay to observe the photos, and we show that behavior, earnings, and efficiency are affected. When subjects are “face to face,” efficiency is enhanced, and senders have higher earnings. (JEL D12, D83, Z13)
Asymmetric Information, Adverse Selection and Online Disclosure: The Case of eBay Motors
Authors: Lewis Gregory
Published: June 2011

Since Akerlof (1970), economists have understood the adverse selection problem that information asymmetries can create in used goods markets. The remarkable growth in online used goods auctions thus poses a puzzle. Part of the solution is that sellers voluntarily disclose their private information on the auction web page. This defines a precise contract -- to deliver the car shown for the closing price -- which helps protect the buyer from adverse selection. I test this theory using data from eBay Motors, finding that online disclosures are important price determinants, and that disclosure costs impact both the level of disclosure and prices. (JEL D44, D82, L81)
Conceptual metaphors in gesture
Authors: Chui Kawai
Published: June 2011

This study investigates metaphoric gestures in face-to-face conversation. It is found that gestures of this kind are mainly performed in the central gesture space with noticeable and discernable configurations, providing visible evidence for cross-domain cognitive mappings and the grounding of conceptual metaphors in people's recurrent bodily experiences and in what people habitually do in social and cultural practices. Moreover, whether metaphorical thinking is conveyed by gesture exclusively or along with metaphoric speech, the manual enactment of even conventional metaphors manifests dynamism in communicating metaphors. Metaphoric gestures can provide salient, additional information about the aspect of the conceptualization which is the speaker's focus of attention in real-time multimodal communication.
Does framing work? An empirical study of Simplifying Models for sustainable food production
Authors: Jaspaert Koen , Van de Velde Freek , Brône Geert , Feyaerts Kurt , Geeraerts Dirk
Published: June 2011

We investigate empirically whether framing in general, and the use of Simplifying Models as a framing tool in particular, has an effect on the way topics are cognitively construed. Existing studies on framing in linguistics have either been theoretical or descriptive. Going beyond such methodologically simple approaches, we use a more rigid test design involving the use of a control group, the construction of test conditions in which different Simplifying Models constitute the major source of variation, the inclusion of independent variables like age and prior knowledge of the subjects, and the use of linear and logistic regression analysis. Our results show that our more rigid methodological approach yields a more reliable image of the effect of Simplifying Models on the way in which people deal with information on a complex topic like sustainable food production. Fleshing out these effects further may in time lead to a better informed construction of communication on complex social topics.
Form and function in Irish child directed speech
Authors: Cameron-Faulkner Thea , Hickey Tina
Published: June 2011

In the present study we analyse a sample of Irish Child Directed Speech in terms of item-based constructions and the communicative intents which they express. The study is based on the speech of an Irish native speaker engaged in daily activities with her son (aged 1;9). The findings of the analyses indicate the high degree of lexical specificity attested in the sample; in total 35 item-based frames account for just under 70% of analysed utterances. In most cases there was a one-to-one relationship between item-based frame and communicative intent. However, of particular interest was the clustering of structurally related frames around specific functions. We propose that this relationship highlights the role of communicative intent in the organisation of structural linguistic knowledge.
A Compound Modulation Diffraction Grating
Authors: Li Jian-Long , Feng Guoying
Published: June 2011

A compound modulation diffraction grating is brought forward, and successful acting as a beam splitter. Compared with beam splitters made with this traditional single modulation grating, the beam splitter made with the compound modulated grating has some superiority on the error of optical parameters. And the model of the compound modulation diffraction grating can be applied to analysis the influence on diffraction efficiencies of the diffraction grating caused by the surface undulation.
High-Dose Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation of Preterm Infants: Respiratory and Allergy Outcomes
Authors: Manley Brett J. , Makrides Maria , Collins Carmel T. , McPhee Andrew J. , Gibson Robert A. , Ryan Philip , Sullivan Thomas R. , Davis Peter G. ,   for the DINO Steering Committee
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND:

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been associated with downregulation of inflammatory responses.

OBJECTIVE:

To report the effect of DHA supplementation on long-term atopic and respiratory outcomes in preterm infants.

METHODS:

This study is a multicenter, randomized controlled trial comparing the outcomes for preterm infants <33 weeks' gestation who consumed expressed breast milk from mothers taking either tuna oil (high-DHA diet) or soy oil (standard-DHA) capsules. Data collected included incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and parental reporting of atopic conditions over the first 18 months of life.

RESULTS:

Six hundred fifty-seven infants were enrolled (322 to high-DHA diet, 335 to standard), and 93.5% completed the 18-month follow-up. There was a reduction in BPD in boys (relative risk [RR]: 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.47–0.96]; P = .03) and in all infants with a birth weight of <1250 g (RR: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.57–0.98]; P = .04). There was no effect on duration of respiratory support, admission length, or home oxygen requirement. There was a reduction in reported hay fever in all infants in the high-DHA group at either 12 or 18 months (RR: 0.41 [95% CI: 0.18–0.91]; P = .03) and at either 12 or 18 months in boys (RR: 0.15 [0.03–0.64]; P = .01). There was no effect on asthma, eczema, or food allergy.

CONCLUSIONS:

DHA supplementation for infants of <33 weeks' gestation reduced the incidence of BPD in boys and in all infants with a birth weight of <1250 g and reduced the incidence of reported hay fever in boys at either 12 or 18 months.
Comparison of the World Health Organization Growth Velocity Standards With Existing US Reference Data
Authors: de Onis Mercedes , Siyam Amani , Borghi Elaine , Onyango Adelheid W. , Piwoz Ellen , Garza Cutberto
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

The goal of this study was to compare World Health Organization (WHO) growth velocity standards with reference data based on US children.

METHODS:

Comparisons were made between reference values for weight and length gains based on serial data from US children and the WHO child growth standards. We compared weight velocities for boys and girls for selected percentiles (5th, 25th, 50th, 75th, and 95th) for 1-month intervals from birth to 6 months, 2-month intervals up to 12 months, and 3-month intervals up to 24 months. For length, we compared 2-month intervals from birth to 6 months and 3-month intervals up to 24 months.

RESULTS:

WHO and US monthly weight increments were similar at the 5th percentile up to 3 months of age; values for other US percentiles were below the WHO percentiles ∼150 g on average. From 3 months onward, the US values converged to a narrow range of <100 g between estimated percentiles. Two- and 3-month weight gains showed similar variations. Differences between the WHO and US values were more pronounced at the lower end of the distribution. For length, medians were in closer agreement, but as occurred with weight, values at the outer US percentiles converged to a narrower range with increasing age compared with those of the WHO standards.

CONCLUSIONS:

There are important differences between the WHO standards and the reference values for growth velocity based on US data. The WHO values are a better tool for assessing growth velocity and making clinical decisions.
Parents' Experiences of Expanded Newborn Screening Evaluations
Authors: DeLuca Jane M. , Kearney Margaret H. , Norton Sally A. , Arnold Georgianne L.
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Abnormal results of newborn screening for common metabolic diseases are known to create substantial distress for parents. We explored parents' perceptions during diagnostic evaluations for newer disorders that are less well understood.

METHODS:

Thirty families completed 48 open-ended interviews before and/or after parents received confirmatory test results for their infants. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS:

Parents were shocked by the notification of the abnormal test result. Their urgent and often frustrating searches for information dominated the early phase of the screening process. Treatment center personnel were mainly informative and reassuring, but waiting for results exacerbated parents' distress. Equivocal results from diagnostic testing created uncertainties for parents regarding their infants' long-term health. After counseling, some parents reported inaccurate ideas about the disorders despite exposure to large amounts of information. Regardless of the challenges and anxieties of the evaluation, nearly every parent thought newborn screening was an important program for infant health.

CONCLUSIONS:

The evaluation of a newborn for an abnormal screening result was highly stressful for parents. To help reduce parents' distress, improvements in communications and clinical services are needed. Recommendations of useful Internet sites and discussions of this information may benefit parents. Tailoring counseling to meet the needs of culturally and educationally diverse families is needed. Families and infants with equivocal results are a new group of patients who merit comprehensive clinical follow-up.
Children, Adolescents, Obesity, and the Media
Authors: Strasburger Victor C. ,   Council on Communications and Media
Published: June 2011

This Policy Statement was retired March 2018.

Obesity has become a worldwide public health problem. Considerable research has shown that the media contribute to the development of child and adolescent obesity, although the exact mechanism remains unclear. Screen time may displace more active pursuits, advertising of junk food and fast food increases children's requests for those particular foods and products, snacking increases while watching TV or movies, and late-night screen time may interfere with getting adequate amounts of sleep, which is a known risk factor for obesity. Sufficient evidence exists to warrant a ban on junk-food or fast-food advertising in children's TV programming. Pediatricians need to ask 2 questions about media use at every well-child or well-adolescent visit: (1) How much screen time is being spent per day? and (2) Is there a TV set or Internet connection in the child's bedroom?
Protecting Children From Sexual Abuse by Health Care Providers
Authors: Christian Cindy W. , Feldman Kenneth W. ,   Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect
Published: June 2011

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed October 2014 and January 2020.

Sexual abuse or exploitation of children is never acceptable. Such behavior by health care providers is particularly concerning because of the trust that children and their families place on adults in the health care profession. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly endorses the social and moral prohibition against sexual abuse or exploitation of children by health care providers. The academy opposes any such sexual abuse or exploitation by providers, particularly by the academy's members. Health care providers should be trained to recognize and abide by appropriate provider-patient boundaries. Medical institutions should screen staff members for a history of child abuse issues, train them to respect and maintain appropriate boundaries, and establish policies and procedures to receive and investigate concerns about patient abuse. Each person has a responsibility to ensure the safety of children in health care settings and to scrupulously follow appropriate legal and ethical reporting and investigation procedures.
The Effect of a Non-negative Salinity Gradient on ASP Flood Performance
Authors: Levitt David B. , Chamerois Manuel , Bourrel Maurice , Gauer Pascal , Morel Danielle
Published: June 2011

Several decades of research have led to general acceptance that a negative salinity gradient represents the optimal injection strategy in surfactant-polymer (SP) and alkaline-surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding. However, in many situations, such as when formation brine salinity is low either naturally or due to extensive waterflooding, a classical, negative salinity gradient is not feasible. In this case, other options may include the retention of a negative gradient between the slug and drive, but with the allowance of type I formation brine salinity, or a "I-III-I" gradient. We investigate how this strategy will affect flood performance in respect to a classical, negative, or "II-III-I" gradient. Corefloods and 1-D simulations are used to compare the production profiles of the two, and additional simulations examine the difficulty in capturing the tradeoff between low interfacial tension and phase trapping near the transition between type I and type III phase behavior.
ANFIS-based approach to scour depth prediction at abutments in armored beds
Authors: Muzzammil Mohammad , Alam Javed
Published: June 2011

An accurate estimation of the maximum possible scour depth at bridge abutments is of paramount importance in decision-making for the safe abutment foundation depth and also for the degree of scour countermeasures to be implemented against excessive scouring. Most of the scour depth prediction formulae available in the literature have been developed based on the analysis of laboratory and field data using statistical methods such as the regression method (RM). The alternative approaches, such as artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), are generally preferred to provide better solutions in cases where the available data is incomplete or ambiguous in nature. In the present study, an attempt has, therefore, been made to develop the ANFIS model for the prediction of scour depth at the bridge abutments embedded in an armored bed and make the comparative study for the performance of ANFIS over RM and ANN in modeling the scour depth. It has been found that the ANFIS model performed best amongst all of these methods. The causative variables in raw form result in a more accurate prediction of the scour depth than that of their grouped form.
Extracting physical homogeneous regions out of irrigation networks using fuzzy clustering method: a case study for the Ghazvin canal irrigation network
Authors: Monem M. J. , Hashemy S. M.
Published: June 2011

Improving the current operation and maintenance activities is one of the main steps in achieving higher performance of irrigation networks. Improving the irrigation network management, influenced by different spatial and temporal parameters, is confronted with special difficulties. One of the controversial issues often faced by decision-makers is how to cope with the spatial diversity of irrigation systems. Homogeneous area detection out of the irrigation networks could improve the current management of networks. The idea behind this research is to present a quantitative benchmark for exploring the homogeneous areas with similar physical attributes out of the network region. Five physical attributes, such as length, capacity, number of intakes, number of conveyance structures and the covered irrigated area for each canal reach, are used for spatial clustering. Two fuzzy clustering algorithms, namely FCM and GK, are applied to the Ghazvin irrigation network. Using a clustering validity index, SC, shows that the GK algorithm is the more appropriate tool for clustering of the considered dataset. According to the results the optimal number of clusters for the Ghazvin irrigation project is derived as nine clusters and the irrigated district is classified into nine homogeneous areas. Physical homogeneous regions provide a context for better and easier decision-making.
Laminar pipe flow with time-dependent viscosity
Authors: Vardy Alan E. , Brown James M. B.
Published: June 2011

A general solution is obtained for laminar flow in axisymmetric pipes, allowing for prescribed timedependent viscosity and time-dependent pressure gradients. In both cases, the only restriction on the prescribed time dependence is that it must vary continuously; it is not necessary for rates of change to be continuous. The general solution is obtained using the Finite Hankel Transform method. This makes it possible to allow explicitly for time-dependent viscosity, but it does not permit the spatial dependence of viscosity. This contrasts with Laplace transforms, which allow spatial, but not general, temporal variations. The general solution is used to study a selection of particular flows chosen to illustrate distinct forms of physical behaviour and to demonstrate the ease with which solutions are obtained. The methodology is also applied to the simple case of constant (Newtonian) viscosity. In this case, it yields the same solutions as previously published methods, but it does so in a much simpler manner.
Evolutionary product unit based neural networks for hydrological time series analysis
Authors: Karunasingha Dulakshi S. K. , Jayawardena A. W. , Li W. K.
Published: June 2011

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are now widely used in many areas of science, medicine, finance and engineering. Analysis and prediction of time series of hydrological/and meteorological data is one such application. Problems that still exist in the application of ANN's are the lack of transparency and the expertise needed for training. An evolutionary algorithm-based method to train a type of neural networks called Product Units Based Neural Networks (PUNN) has been proposed in a 2006 study. This study investigates the applicability of this type of neural networks to hydrological time series prediction. The technique, with a few small changes to improve the performance, is applied to some benchmark time series as well as to a real hydrological time series for prediction. The results show that evolutionary PUNN produce more transparent models compared to widely used multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network models. It is also seen that training of PUNN models requires less expertise compared to MLPs.
MOPSO algorithm and its application in multipurpose multireservoir operations
Authors: Fallah-Mehdipour E. , Haddad O. Bozorg , Mariño M. A.
Published: June 2011

The main reason for applying evolutionary algorithms in multi-objective optimization problems is to obtain near-optimal nondominated solutions/Pareto fronts, from which decision-makers can choose a suitable solution. The efficiency of multi-objective optimization algorithms depends on the quality and quantity of Pareto fronts produced by them. To compare different Pareto fronts resulting from different algorithms, criteria are considered and applied in multi-objective problems. Each criterion denotes a characteristic of the Pareto front. Thus, ranking approaches are commonly used to evaluate different algorithms based on different criteria. This paper presents three multi-objective optimization methods based on the multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm. To evaluate these methods, bi-objective mathematical benchmark problems are considered. Results show that all proposed methods are successful in finding near-optimal Pareto fronts. A ranking method is used to compare the capability of the proposed methods and the best method for further study is suggested. Moreover, the nominated method is applied as an optimization tool in real multi-objective optimization problems in multireservoir system operations. A new technique in multi-objective optimization, called warm-up, based on the PSO algorithm is then applied to improve the quality of the Pareto front by single-objective search. Results show that the proposed technique is successful in finding an optimal Pareto front.
Pipe burst diagnostics using evidence theory
Authors: Bicik Josef , Kapelan Zoran , Makropoulos Christos , Savić Dragan A.
Published: June 2011

This paper presents a decision support methodology aimed at assisting Water Distribution System (WDS) operators in the timely location of pipe bursts. This will enable them to react more systematically and promptly. The information gathered from various data sources to help locate where a pipe burst might have occurred is frequently conflicting and imperfect. The methodology developed in this paper deals effectively with such information sources. The raw data collected in the field is first processed by means of several models, namely the pipe burst prediction model, the hydraulic model and the customer contacts model. The Dempster–Shafer Theory of Evidence is then used to combine the outputs of these models with the aim of increasing the certainty of determining the location of a pipe burst within a WDS. This new methodology has been applied to several semi-real case studies. The results obtained demonstrate that the method shows potential for locating the area of a pipe burst by capturing the varying credibility of the individual models based on their historical performance.
A practical protocol for calibration of nutrient removal wastewater treatment models
Authors: Mannina Giorgio , Cosenza Alida , Vanrolleghem Peter A. , Viviani Gaspare
Published: June 2011

Activated sludge models can be very useful for designing and managing wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). However, as with every model, they need to be calibrated for correct and reliable application. Activated sludge model calibration is still a crucial point that needs appropriate guidance. Indeed, although calibration protocols have been developed, the model calibration still represents the main bottleneck to modelling. This paper presents a procedure for the calibration of an activated sludge model based on a comprehensive sensitivity analysis and a novel step-wise Monte Carlo-based calibration of the subset of influential parameters. In the proposed procedure the complex calibration issue is tackled both by making a prior screening of the most influential model parameters and by simplifying the problem of finding the optimal parameter set by splitting the estimation task into steps. The key point of the proposed step-wise procedure is that calibration is undertaken for sub-groups of variables instead of solving a complex multi-objective function. Moreover, even with this step-wise approach parameter identifiability issues may occur, but this is dealt with by using the general likelihood uncertainty estimation (GLUE) method, that so far has rarely been used in the field of wastewater modelling. An example from a real case study illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed methodology. Particularly, a model was built for the simulation of the nutrient removal in a Bardenpho scheme plant. The model was successfully and efficiently calibrated to a large WWTP in Sicily.
Prediction of local scour depth at bridge piers under clear-water and live-bed conditions: comparison of literature formulae and artificial neural networks
Authors: Toth E. , Brandimarte L.
Published: June 2011

The scouring effect of the flowing water around bridge piers may undermine the stability of the structure, leading to extremely high direct and indirect costs and, in extreme cases, the loss of human lives. The use of Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models has been recently proposed in the literature for estimating the maximum scour depth around bridge piers: this study aims at further investigating the potentiality of the ANN approach and, in particular, at analysing the influence of the experimental setting (laboratory or field data) and of the sediment transport mode (clear water or live bed) on the prediction performances. A large database of both field and laboratory observations has been collected from the literature for predicting the maximum local scour depth as a function of a parsimonious set of variables characterizing the flow, the sediments and the pier. Neural networks with an increasing degree of specialization have been implemented – using different subsets of the calibration data in the training phase – and validated over an external validation dataset. The results confirm that the ANN scour depths' predictions outperform the estimates obtained by empirical formulae conventionally used in the literature and in the current engineering practice, and demonstrate the importance of taking into account the differences in the type of available data – laboratory or field data – and the sediment transport mode – clear water or live bed conditions.
Quantifying the economy of flow distribution in water supply looped networks
Authors: Martínez Jose Bienvenido
Published: June 2011

Optimization of water supply looped networks has attracted a great deal of attention from researchers for more than 30 years. As the classical water supply looped network optimization problem is mathematically non-convex and multimodal, the resulting solution of most approaches is uncertain in the sense of how close it is to the “best” solution. In many cases, this “best” or “global” solution is invoked and pursued only intuitively without a clear understanding of its meaning. This paper discusses what is involved in “global” solutions and the role that pipe flow distribution can play to deal with non-convexity and multimodality in a new context. The author has introduced this new context recently after formulating a new objective function capable of finding a looped network that can be economically more attractive than its related branched one. Therefore, the convenience of an approach dealing with flows and heads, as relevant decision variables, is encouraged in this paper and its advantages enumerated under the new concepts. The entropy approach is studied critically and an example is provided for comparison with the proposed approach.
Applications of chemically modified ordered mesoporous carbon as solid phase extraction sorbent for preconcentration of trace lead ion in water samples
Authors: Moradi S.E. , Baniamerian M.J.
Published: June 2011

Chemically modified ordered mesoporous carbon (COMC) was synthesized for
solid phase extraction (SPE) to the determination of Pb(II) in environmental
samples by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). The method
comprises the preconcentration of Pb(II) ions at buffered solutions onto 25
mg of ordered mesoporous carbon oxidized with concentrated HNO3. The elution
step is carried out with 2.2 mmol L?1 HNO3. At pH 5-6, the maximum
adsorption capacity of Pb(II) onto the COMC was 1.44 mmol g-1. The optimum
experimental parameters for preconcentration of lead, such as pH of the
sample, sample flow rate and volume, elution solution and interfering ions,
have been investigated. The limit of detection of the method was found to be
3.31 ng mL?1. The relative standard deviation for four preconcentration
experiments was found to be ?3% in this case. It was concluded that
mesoporous carbon packed cartridge coupled with FAAS was an excellent
alternative for the routine analysis of lead ion at trace level.
Temporal Trends in Recording of Diabetes on Death Certificates
Authors: McEwen Laura N. , Karter Andrew J. , Curb J. David , Marrero David G. , Crosson Jesse C. , Herman William H.
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency that diabetes is reported on death certificates of decedents with known diabetes and describe trends in reporting over 8 years.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Data were obtained from 11,927 participants with diabetes who were enrolled in Translating Research into Action for Diabetes, a multicenter prospective observational study of diabetes care in managed care. Data on decedents (N = 2,261) were obtained from the National Death Index from 1 January 2000 through 31 December 2007. The primary dependent variables were the presence of the ICD-10 codes for diabetes listed anywhere on the death certificate or as the underlying cause of death.

RESULTS

Diabetes was recorded on 41% of death certificates and as the underlying cause of death for 13% of decedents with diabetes. Diabetes was significantly more likely to be reported on the death certificate of decedents dying of cardiovascular disease than all other causes. There was a statistically significant trend of increased reporting of diabetes as the underlying cause of death over time (P < 0.001), which persisted after controlling for duration of diabetes at death. The increase in reporting of diabetes as the underlying cause of death was associated with a decrease in the reporting of cardiovascular disease as the underlying cause of death (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Death certificates continue to underestimate the prevalence of diabetes among decedents. The increase in reporting of diabetes as the underlying cause of death over the past 8 years will likely impact estimates of the burden of diabetes in the U.S.
A Prospective Study of Prepregnancy Dietary Iron Intake and Risk for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bowers Katherine , Yeung Edwina , Williams Michelle A. , Qi Lu , Tobias Deirdre K. , Hu Frank B. , Zhang Cuilin
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE

It is important to identify modifiable factors that may lower gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk. Dietary iron is of particular interest given that iron is a strong prooxidant, and high body iron levels can damage pancreatic β-cell function and impair glucose metabolism. The current study is to determine if prepregnancy dietary and supplemental iron intakes are associated with the risk of GDM.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective study was conducted among 13,475 women who reported a singleton pregnancy between 1991 and 2001 in the Nurses’ Health Study II. A total of 867 incident GDM cases were reported. Pooled logistic regression was used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of GDM by quintiles of iron intake controlling for dietary and nondietary risk factors.

RESULTS

Dietary heme iron intake was positively and significantly associated with GDM risk. After adjusting for age, BMI, and other risk factors, RRs (95% CIs) across increasing quintiles of heme iron were 1.0 (reference), 1.11 (0.87–1.43), 1.31 (1.03–1.68), 1.51 (1.17–1.93), and 1.58 (1.21–2.08), respectively (P for linear trend 0.0001). The multivariate adjusted RR for GDM associated with every 0.5-mg per day of increase in intake was 1.22 (1.10–1.36). No significant associations were observed between total dietary, nonheme, or supplemental iron intake and GDM risk.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that higher prepregnancy intake of dietary heme iron is associated with an increased GDM risk.
Geotechnical Characterization of Mined Clay from Appalachian Ohio: Challenges and Implications for the Clay Mining Industry
Authors: Moran Anthony R. , Hettiarachchi Hiroshan
Published: June 2011

Clayey soil found in coal mines in Appalachian Ohio is often sold to landfills for constructing Recompacted Soil Liners (RSL) in landfills. Since clayey soils possess low hydraulic conductivity, the suitability of mined clay for RSL in Ohio is first assessed by determining its clay content. When soil samples are tested in a laboratory, the same engineering properties are typically expected for the soils originated from the same source, provided that the testing techniques applied are standard, but mined clay from Appalachian Ohio has shown drastic differences in particle size distribution depending on the sampling and/or laboratory processing methods. Sometimes more than a 10 percent decrease in the clay content is observed in the samples collected at the stockpiles, compared to those collected through reverse circulation drilling. This discrepancy poses a challenge to geotechnical engineers who work on the prequalification process of RSL material as it can result in misleading estimates of the hydraulic conductivity of the samples. This paper describes a laboratory investigation conducted on mined clay from Appalachian Ohio to determine how and why the standard sampling and/or processing methods can affect the grain-size distributions. The variation in the clay content was determined to be due to heavy concentrations of shale fragments in the clayey soils. It was also concluded that, in order to obtain reliable grain size distributions from the samples collected at a stockpile of mined clay, the material needs to be processed using a soil grinder. Otherwise, the samples should be collected through drilling.
Reciprocal Roles of Angiotensin II and Angiotensin II Receptors Blockade (ARB) in Regulating Cbfa1/RANKL via cAMP Signaling Pathway: Possible Mechanism for Hypertension-Related Osteoporosis and Antagonistic Effect of ARB on Hypertension-Related Osteoporosis
Authors: Guan Xiao-Xu , Zhou Yi , Li Ji-Yao
Published: June 2011

Hypertension is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Animal and epidemiological studies demonstrate that high blood pressure is associated with increased calcium loss, elevated parathyroid hormone, and increased calcium movement from bone. However, the mechanism responsible for hypertension-related osteoporosis remains elusive. Recent epidemiological studies indicate the benefits of Angiotensin II Receptors Blockade (ARB) on decreasing fracture risks. Since receptors for angiotensin II, the targets of ARB, are expressed in both osteoblasts and osteoclasts, we postulated that angiotensin II plays an important role in hypertension-related osteoporosis. Cbfa1 and RANKL, the important factors for maintaining bone homeostasis and key mediators in controlling osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, are both regulated by cAMP-dependent signaling. Angiotensin II along with factors such as LDL, HDL, NO and homocysteine that are commonly altered both in hypertension and osteoporosis, can down-regulate the expression of Cbfa1 but up-regulate RANKL expression via the cAMP signaling pathway. We thus hypothesized that, by altering the ratio of Cbfa1/RANKL expression via the cAMP-dependent pathway, angiotensin II differently regulates osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation leading to enhanced bone resorption and reduced bone formation. Since ARB can antagonize the adverse effect of angiotensin II on bone by lowering cAMP levels and modifying other downstream targets, including LDL, HDL, NO and Cbfa1/RANKL, we propose the hypothesis that the antagonistic effects of ARB may also be exerted via cAMP signaling pathway.
A Novel Preparation Method for Camptothecin (CPT) Loaded Folic Acid Conjugated Dextran Tumor-Targeted Nanoparticles
Authors: Zu Yuangang , Wang Dan , Zhao Xiuhua , Jiang Ru , Zhang Qi , Zhao Dongmei , Li Yong , Zu Baishi , Sun Zhiqiang
Published: June 2011

In this study, folic-dextran-camptothecin (Fa-DEX-CPT) tumor-targeted nanoparticles were produced with a supercritical antisolvent (SAS) technique by using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a solvent and carbon dioxide as an antisolvent. A factorial design was used to reveal the effect of various process parameters on the mean particle size (MPS) and morphology of the particles formed. Under the optimum operation conditions, Fa-DEX-CPT nanoparticles with a MPS of 182.21 nm were obtained. Drug encapsulation efficiency and loading efficiency were 62.13% and 36.12%, respectively. It was found that the concentrations of the camptothecin (CPT) and dextran solution had a major influence upon morphology and shape of the final product. In addition, the samples were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) with the purpose of developing a suitable targeted drug delivery system for cancer chemotherapy.
Thermal Transition Properties of Hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae) and Ling (Genypterus blacodes) Skin Collagens: Implications for Processing
Authors: Hofman Kathleen Anne , Newberry Marcus
Published: June 2011

Hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae) and ling (Genypterus blacodes) are cold-water fish caught in New Zealand waters. Their skins are a major component of the post-processing waste stream. Valuable products could be developed from the skins, as they are primarily composed of collagen, which has many commercial applications. We prepared acid soluble collagens (ASC) from hoki and ling skins, and analyzed their thermal denaturation properties using a Rapid Visco™ Analyzer. At slower heating rates the denaturation temperature (TD) of hoki and ling collagens decreased. This result is consistent with the model of irreversible rate kinetics for the denaturation of collagen. We determined the effects of solvents that disrupt hydrogen bonding on ASC stability. Increasing concentrations of urea from 0.1 M to 1.0 M and acetic acid from 0.1 M to 0.5 M decreased TD. This resulted from the effects of these reagents on the hydrogen bonds that stabilize the collagen triple helix.
Enantioselective Addition of Allyltin Reagents to Amino Aldehydes Catalyzed with Bis(oxazolinyl)phenylrhodium(III) Aqua Complexes
Authors: Motoyama Yukihiro , Sakakura Takatoshi , Takemoto Toshihide , Shimozono Kayoko , Aoki Katsuyuki , Nishiyama Hisao
Published: June 2011

Bis(oxazolinyl)phenylrhodium(III) aqua complexes, (Phebox)RhX2(H2O) [X = Cl, Br], were found to be efficient Lewis acid catalysts for the enantioselective addition of allyl- and methallyltributyltin reagents to amino aldehydes. The reactions proceed smoothly in the presence of 5–10 mol % of (Phebox)RhX2(H2O) complex at ambient temperature to give the corresponding amino alcohols with modest to good enantioselectivity (up to 94% ee).
In Vitro Activity of Plant Extracts and Alkaloids against Clinical Isolates of Extended-Spectrum b-Lactamase (ESBL)-Producing Strains
Authors: Zuo Guo-Ying , Meng Fan-Yan , Han Jun , Hao Xiao-Yan , Wang Gen-Chun , Zhang Yun-Ling , Zhang Qing
Published: June 2011

The antibacterial activity of 80% ethanol extracts of 10 medicinal plants collected in Yunnan (Southwest China), was tested against clinical isolates of extended-spectrum b-lactamase (ESBL)-producing strains. Their MIC values ranged between 1.56–12.50 mg/mL. The most active plant extract was Chelidonium majus L. (MIC = 1.56 mg/mL). Two potent isoquinoline alkaloids, 8-hydroxydihydrosanguinarine and 8-hydroxydihydrochelerythrine, were identified as the major active principles through bioassay-guided fractionation and identification of the active ethyl acetate fraction from C. majus, with minimum MIC/MBC values of 15.63/62.50 mg/mL.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Activities of Novel Imidazo[2,1-b]-1,3,4-thiadiazoles
Authors: Atta Kamal F. M. , Farahat Omaima O.M. , Ahmed Alaa Z. A. , Marei Mohamed G.
Published: June 2011

2-Amino-5-(2-aryl-2H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazoles 2-4 have been synthesized by the reaction of 2-aryl-2H-1,2,3-triazole-4-carboxylic acids 1 with thiosemicarbazide. Their reaction with phenacyl (p-substituted phenacyl) bromides led to formation of the respective 6-aryl-2-(2-aryl-2H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)imidazo[2,1-b]-1,3,4-thiadiazoles 5. Reactivity of the latter fused ring towards reaction with different electrophilic reagents afforded the corresponding 5-substituted derivatives 6-8. The structure of the above compounds was confirmed from their spectral characteristics. Some of these compounds were found to possess slight to moderate activity against the microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.
Spectrophotometric Determination of Metoprolol Tartrate in Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms on Complex Formation with Cu(II)
Authors: Cesme Mustafa , Tarinc Derya , Golcu Aysegul
Published: June 2011

A new, simple, sensitive and accurate spectrophotometric method has been developed for the assay of metoprolol tartrate (MPT), which is based on the complexation of drug with copper(II) [Cu(II)] at pH 6.0, using Britton-Robinson buffer solution, to produce a blue adduct. The latter has a maximum absorbance at 675 nm and obeys Beer’s law within the concentration range 8.5-70 mg/mL. Regression analysis of the calibration data showed a good correlation coefficient (r = 0.998) with a limit of detection of 5.56 mg/mL. The proposed procedure has been successfully applied to the determination of this drug in its tablets. In addition, the spectral data and stability constant for the binuclear copper(II) complex of MPT (Cu2MPT2Cl2) have been reported.