bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Evaluation of the Density Ratio Effects on the Cooling Performance of a Combined Slot/Effusion Combustor Cooling System
Authors: Andreini Antonio , Caciolli Gianluca , Facchini Bruno , Tarchi Lorenzo
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of coolant-to-mainstream density ratio on a real engine cooling scheme of a combustor liner composed of a slot injection and an effusion array with a central dilution hole. Measurements of heat transfer coefficient and adiabatic effectiveness were performed by means of steady-state thermochromic liquid crystals technique; experimental results were used to estimate, through a 1D thermal procedure, the Net Heat Flux Reduction and the overall effectiveness in realistic engine working conditions. To reproduce a representative value of combustor coolant-to-mainstream density ratio, tests were carried out feeding the cooling system with carbon dioxide, while air was used in the main channel; to highlight the effects of density ratio, tests were replicated using air both as coolant and as mainstream and results were compared. Experiments were carried out imposing values of effusion blowing and velocity ratios within a range of typical modern engine working conditions. Results point out the influence of density ratio on film cooling performance, suggesting that velocity ratio is the driving parameter for the heat transfer phenomena; on the other hand, the adiabatic effectiveness is less sensitive to the cooling flow parameters, especially at the higher blowing/velocity ratios.
Propolis Modifies Collagen Types I and III Accumulation in the Matrix of Burnt Tissue
Authors: Olczyk Pawel , Wisowski Grzegorz , Komosinska-Vassev Katarzyna , Stojko Jerzy , Klimek Katarzyna , Olczyk Monika , Kozma Ewa M.
Published: May 2013

Wound healing represents an interactive process which requires highly organized activity of various cells, synthesizing cytokines, growth factors, and collagen. Collagen types I and III, serving as structural and regulatory molecules, play pivotal roles during wound healing. The aim of this study was to compare the propolis and silver sulfadiazine therapeutic efficacy throughout the quantitative and qualitative assessment of collagen types I and III accumulation in the matrix of burnt tissues. Burn wounds were inflicted on pigs, chosen for the evaluation of wound repair because of many similarities between pig and human skin. Isolated collagen types I and III were estimated by the surface plasmon resonance method with a subsequent collagenous quantification using electrophoretic and densitometric analyses. Propolis burn treatment led to enhanced collagens and its components expression, especially during the initial stage of the study. Less expressed changes were observed after silver sulfadiazine (AgSD) application. AgSD and, with a smaller intensity, propolis stimulated accumulation of collagenous degradation products. The assessed propolis therapeutic efficacy, throughout quantitatively and qualitatively analyses of collagen types I and III expression and degradation in wounds matrix, may indicate that apitherapeutic agent can generate favorable biochemical environment supporting reepithelization.
Adaptive Synchronization for Two Different Stochastic Chaotic Systems with Unknown Parameters via a Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Wang Zengyun , Huang Lihong , Yang Xuxin , Lu Dingyang
Published: May 2013

This paper investigates the problem of synchronization for two different stochastic chaotic systems with unknown parameters and uncertain terms. The main work of this paper consists of the following aspects. Firstly, based on the Lyapunov theory in stochastic differential equations and the theory of sliding mode control, we propose a simple sliding surface and discuss the occurrence of the sliding motion. Secondly, we design an adaptive sliding mode controller to realize the asymptotical synchronization in mean squares. Thirdly, we design an adaptive sliding mode controller to realize the almost surely synchronization. Finally, the designed adaptive sliding mode controllers are used to achieve synchronization between two pairs of different stochastic chaos systems (Lorenz-Chen and Chen-Lu) in the presence of the uncertainties and unknown parameters. Numerical simulations are given to demonstrate the robustness and efficiency of the proposed robust adaptive sliding mode controller.
Salmonella entericaSerotype Choleraesuis Infection of the Knee and Femur in a Nonbacteremic Diabetic Patient
Authors: Sy Alexander M. , Sandhu Jagbir , Lenox Theodore
Published: May 2013

Osteoarticular infections caused bySalmonellaare rare. The rates of osteomyelitis and septic arthritis due toSalmonellaare estimated to be less than 1% and 0.1%-0.2%, respectively (Kato et al., 2012).Salmonella entericaserotype Choleraesuis is anontyphoidal Salmonella, highly pathogenic in humans, usually causing septicemic disease with little or no intestinal involvement. Serotype Choleraesuis accounts for a small percentage of published studies ofSalmonellainfections in the United States. It is not commonly reported in joint fluid and bones in contrast to serotype Enteritidis and Typhi, where a considerable number of cases have been published. Chen et al. in Taiwan found that 21% of bacteremic patients with this infection subsequently develop focal infections such as septic arthritis, pneumonia, peritonitis, and cutaneous abscess (Chen et al., 1999, Chiu et al., 2004). In contrast, our patient presented with localized osteoarticular infection withSalmonella enterica serotype Cholerasuis, but without evidence of bacteremia.
Ataxia and Encephalitis in a Young Adult with EBV Mononucleosis: A Case Report
Authors: Hussain Rashid S. , Hussain Naaz A.
Published: May 2013

Neurological manifestations of mononucleosis are extremely rare, occurring in about 1% of all cases. However, when they occur, appropriate treatment must be undertaken to ensure appropriate symptomatic management and reduce morbidity. We present the case of a 25-year-old graduate student with weeklong complaints of fever, sore throat, fatigue, nausea, and “dizziness.” She later developed increased sleep requirements, ataxia, vertigo, and nystagmus with a positive EBV IgM titer confirming acute infectious mononucleosis. The patient was clinically diagnosed with EBV-associated cerebellitis and encephalitis, displaying neurological and psychiatric impairment commonly seen in postconcussion syndrome. MRI showed no acute changes. She was started on valacyclovir and a prednisone taper, recovering by the end of twelve weeks. Though corticosteroids and acyclovir are not recommended therapy in patients presenting with EBV-associated ataxia, clinicians may want to keep a low threshold to start these medications in case more serious neurological sequelae develop.
Developing an Appropriate Digital Hearing Aid for Low‐Resource Countries: A Case Study
Authors: Israsena P. , Isaradisaikul S. , Noymai A. , Boonyanukul S. , Hemakom A. , Chinnarat C. , Navacharoen N. , Lekagul S.
Published: May 2013

This paper reviews the development process and discusses the key findings which resulted from our multidisciplinary research team′s effort to develop an alternative digital hearing suitable for low‐resource countries such as Thailand. A cost‐effective, fully programmable digital hearing aid, with its specifications benchmarking against WHO′s recommendations, was systematically designed, engineered, and tested. Clinically it had undergone a full clinical trial that employed the outcome measurement protocol adopted from the APHAB, the first time implemented in Thai language. Results indicated that using the hearing aid improves user’s satisfaction in terms of ease of communication, background noises, and reverberation, with clear benefit after 3 and 6 months, confirming its efficacy. In terms of engineering, the hearing aid also proved to be robust, passing all the designated tests. As the technology has successfully been transferred to a local company for the production phase, we also discuss other challenges that may arise before the device can be introduced into the market.
Serum Antioxidative Enzymes Levels and Oxidative Stress Products in Age-Related Cataract Patients
Authors: Chang Dong , Zhang Xuefei , Rong Shengzhong , Sha Qian , Liu Peipei , Han Tao , Pan Hongzhi
Published: May 2013

Purpose. To investigate the activity of antioxidative enzymes and the products of oxidative stress in patients with age-related cataracts and compare the findings with those in healthy control subjects.Method. Sixty patients with age-related cataract and sixty healthy controls of matched age and gender were included in this study. Serum samples were obtained to detect the antioxidative enzymes of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and oxidation degradation products of malondialdehyde (MDA), 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE), conjugated diene (CD), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), protein carbonyl (PC), and 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG).Results. Serum SOD, GSH-Px, and CAT activities in cataract group were significantly decreased as compared to the control subjects (P<0.05). The levels of MDA, 4-HNE, and CD in cataract patients were significantly higher than those in the control subjects (P<0.05,P<0.01). Cataract patients had higher levels of 8-OHdG, AOPP, and PC with respect to the comparative group of normal subjects (P<0.01). And there was no statistical significance in concentration of antioxidative enzymes and oxidative stress products in patients with different subtype cataract.Conclusions. Oxidative stress is an important risk factor in the development of age-related cataract, and augmentation of the antioxidant defence systems may be of benefit to prevent or delay cataractogenesis.
Electrochemical Sensor for o‐Nitrophenol Based on β‐Cyclodextrin Functionalized Graphene Nanosheets
Authors: Liu Jinlong , Chen Yihong , Guo Yujing , Yang Fengling , Cheng Fangqin
Published: May 2013

An electrochemical sensor for the quantification of o‐nitrophenol (o‐NP) has been developed based on the β‐cyclodextrin functionalized graphene nanosheets modified glassy carbon electrode (CD‐GNs/GCE). The results indicated that CD‐GNs showed good electrochemical behavior to the redox of o‐NP which is attributed to the combination of the excellent properties of graphene and cyclodextrin. The peak currents possess a linear relationship with the concentration of o‐NP in the range of 5–400 μM. The detection limit of o‐NP reached to 0.3 μM on the basis of the signal‐to‐noise characteristics (S/N = 3). The peak potentials for the reversible redox waves are not affected by other nitrophenol isomers (m, p‐NP), illustrating good selectivity. Furthermore, the developed electrochemical sensor exhibited good stability and reproducibility for the detection of o‐NP and could be used to determine o‐NP in real water sample.
Integrating Greenhouse Gas Emissions Costs in Lifecycle Loss Evaluations: A Case Study for Transmission Lines
Authors: Lazari Antonis L. , Charalambous Charalambos A.
Published: May 2013

Considering the investment volume in the electrical energy infrastructure and the increasing awareness for global warming and climate change, this paper aims to deliver an enhanced transmission line losses evaluation method that integrates true environment financial figures. The enormous volume of transmission lines utilized in power systems across the world provides a considerable potential for energy savings by adopting the idea of “energy-efficient transmission lines.” In this paper the total owning cost (TOC) formula with built-in environmental components is used to assess the relative economic benefit of a high-first-cost, low-loss transmission line unit versus one with a lower first cost and higher losses. The proposed methodology is applied on the Cyprus Power System, by incorporating true financial data and system characteristics.
A Nonclairvoyant Real-Time Scheduler for Ambient Energy Harvesting Sensors
Authors: El Ghor Hussein , Chetto Maryline , Hage Chehade Rafic
Published: May 2013

Ambient energy harvesting also known as energy scavenging is the process where energy is obtained from the environment, converted, and stored to power small devices such as wireless sensors. We present a variant of EDF scheduling algorithm called EH-EDF (Energy Harvesting-Earliest Deadline First). Decisions are taken at run-time without having prior knowledge about the future energy production and task characteristics. We gauge the performance of EH-EDF by means of simulations in order to show its benefits. We evaluate and compare several variants of EH-EDF in terms of percentage of feasible task sets. Metrics such as average length of the idle times are also considered. Simulations tend to demonstrate that no online scheduler can reach optimality in a real-time energy harvesting environment.
DNA Based Identification and Phylogenetic Characterisation of Endophytic and Saprobic Fungi from Antidesma madagascariense, a Medicinal Plant in Mauritius
Authors: Jeewon Rajesh , Ittoo Jayesh , Mahadeb Devendra , Jaufeerally-Fakim Yasmina , Wang Hong-Kai , Liu Ai-Rong
Published: May 2013

Endophytes are fungi associated with plants without causing symptoms, and they are quite diverse and have enormous potential for production of important secondary metabolites for the pharmaceutical industry. In this study, we report for the first time fungi (both endophytes and saprobes) from Antidesma madagascariense, a medicinal plant in Mauritius, in view of identifying potential candidates for screening of fungi for pharmaceutical importance. In addition the phylogenetic placement of fungi recovered from leaves samples was investigated based on rDNA sequence analysis. Most commonly isolated fungi were related to Aspergillus, Guignardia, Fusarium, Penicillium, Pestalotiopsis, and Trichoderma. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that fungi recovered belong to 5 different fungal lineages (Hypocreaceae, Trichocomaceae, Nectriaceae, Xylariaceae, and Botryosphaeriaceae). DNA data from the ITS regions were reliable in classification of all recovered isolates up to genus level, but identification to an exact species name was not possible at this stage. Despite criticisms pertaining to the use of ITS sequence data in molecular systematics, our approach here provides an opportunity to justify the reliability of ITS sequence data for possible identification and discovering of evolutionary scenarios among isolates that do not sporulate under cultural conditions.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties of the Essential Oil and Extracts of Zanthoxylum alatum Grown in North‐Western Himalaya
Authors: Guleria Sanjay , Tiku A. K. , Koul Apurva , Gupta Sahil , Singh Gurjinder , Razdan V. K.
Published: May 2013

The essential oil obtained from the fresh leaves of Zanthoxylum alatum was analysed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Fourteen components were identified, and linalool (30.58%), 2‐decanone (20.85%), β‐fenchol (9.43%), 2‐tridecanone (8.86%), β‐phellandrene (5.99%), Sabinene (4.82%), and α‐pinene (4.11%) were the main components. The EO and methanolic extract of Z. alatum exhibited potent antifungal activity against Alternaria alternata, Alternaria brassicae, and Curvularia lunata. The EO also showed significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Further, antimicrobial constituents of the EO were isolated by bioautography and preparative thin layer chromatography (PTLC) and identified as β‐fenchol and linalool using GC/MS analysis. In addition to this, the free radical scavenging activity and antioxidant potential of EO and methanolic extract/fractions of Z. alatum were also investigated using in vitro assays including scavenging ability against DPPH•, reducing power and chelating ability on Fe2+ ions. Our results demonstrate that Z. alatum could be used as a resource of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds which may find applications in food and pesticide industries.
Treatment of Periprosthetic Infections: An Economic Analysis
Authors: Hernández-Vaquero Daniel , Fernández-Fairen Mariano , Torres Ana , Menzie Ann M. , Fernández-Carreira José Manuel , Murcia-Mazon Antonio , Guerado Enrique , Merzthal Luis
Published: May 2013

This review summarizes the existing economic literature, assesses the value of current data, and presents procedures that are the less costly and more effective options for the treatment of periprosthetic infections of knee and hip. Optimizing antibiotic use in the prevention and treatment of
periprosthetic infection, combined with systemic and behavioral changes in the operating room, the detection and treatment of high‐risk patient groups, as well as the rational management of the existing infection by using the different procedures according to each particular case, could allow for improved outcomes and lead to the highest quality of life for patients and the lowest economic impact. Nevertheless, the costeffectiveness of different interventions to treat periprosthetic infections remains unclear.
Comparative Study of Gamma Radiation Effects on Solar Cells, Photodiodes, and Phototransistors
Authors: Nikolić Dejan , Stanković Koviljka , Timotijević Ljubinko , Rajović Zoran , Vujisić Miloš
Published: May 2013

This paper presents the behavior of various optoelectronic devices after gamma irradiation. A number of PIN photodiodes, phototransistors, and solar panels have been exposed to gamma irradiation. Several types of photodiodes and phototransistors were used in the experiment.I-Vcharacteristics (current dependance on voltage) of these devices have been measured before and after irradiation. The process of annealing has also been observed. A comparative analysis of measurement results has been performed in order to determine the reliability of optoelectronic devices in radiation environments.
Visualization of the Meridian System Based on Biomedical Information about Acupuncture Treatment
Authors: Lee In-Seon , Lee Soon-Ho , Kim Song-Yi , Lee Hyejung , Park Hi-Joon , Chae Younbyoung
Published: May 2013

The origin of the concept of the meridian system is closely connected with the treatment effects of acupuncture, and it serves as an empirical reference system in the clinical setting. Understanding the meridian channels would be a first step in enhancing the clinical efficacy of acupuncture treatment. To understand the relationship between the location of the disease and the sites of relevant acupoints, we investigated acupuncture treatment regimens for low-back pain in 37 clinical studies. We found that the most frequently used acupoints in the treatment of low-back pain were BL23 (51%), BL25 (43%), BL24 (32%), BL40 (32%), BL60 (32%), GB30 (32%), BL26 (28%), BL32 (28%), and GB34 (21%). For the example of low-back pain, we visualized the biomedical information (frequency rates) about acupuncture treatment on the meridians of a three-dimensional (3D) model of the human body. We found that both local and distal acupoints were used to treat low-back pain in clinical trials based on the meridian theory. We suggest a new model for the visualization of a data-driven 3D meridian system of biomedical information about the meridians and acupoints. These findings may be helpful in understanding the meridian system and revealing the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment.
Higher Integrability of Weak Solutions to a Class of Double Obstacle Systems
Authors: Hu Zhenhua , Zhou Shuqing
Published: May 2013

We first introduce double obstacle systems associated with the second-order quasilinear elliptic differential equationdiv(A(x,∇u))=div f(x,u), whereA(x,∇u),f(x,u)are twon×Nmatrices satisfying certain conditions presented in the context, then investigate the local and global higher integrability of weak solutions to the double obstacle systems, and finally generalize the results of the double obstacle problems to the double obstacle systems.
Book Reviews
Authors: Anceaux J.C. , Fokker A.A. , Josselin de Jong P.E. , Arndt Paul , Uhlenbeck E.M. , Zoetmulder P.J.
Published: May 2013

- J.C. Anceaux, A.A. Fokker, Inleiding tot de studie van de Indonesische syntaxis.
Uitg. J.B. Wolters, Groningen - Djakarta 1951. X, 242 pp. - P.E. de Josselin de Jong,
Paul Arndt, Religion auf Ostflores, Adonare und Solor (Studia Instituti Anthropos Vol.
I, Wien-Mödling 1951). - E.M. Uhlenbeck, P.J. Zoetmulder, De taal van het Adiparwa,
Verhandelingen v/h Kon. Bat. Gen. van Kunsten en Wetenschappen, deel LXXIX, Bandung
1950.
Crop Wind Energy Experiment (CWEX): Observations of Surface-Layer, Boundary Layer, and Mesoscale Interactions with a Wind Farm
Authors: Rajewski Daniel A. , Takle Eugene S. , Lundquist Julie K. , Oncley Steven , Prueger John H. , Horst Thomas W. , Rhodes Michael E. , Pfeiffer Richard , Hatfield Jerry L. , Spoth Kristopher K. , Doorenbos Russell K.
Published: May 2013

Perturbations of mean and turbulent wind characteristics by large wind turbines modify fluxes between the vegetated surface and the lower boundary layer. While simulations have suggested that wind farms could significantly change surface fluxes of heat, momentum, momentum, moisture, and CO2 over hundreds of square kilometers, little observational evidence exists to test these predictions. Quantifying the influences of the “turbine layer” is necessary to quantify how surface fluxes are modified and to better forecast energy production by a wind farm. Changes in fluxes are particularly important in regions of intensely managed agriculture where crop growth and yield are highly dependent on subtle changes in moisture, heat, and CO2. Furthermore, speculations abound about the possible mesoscale consequences of boundary layer changes that are produced by wind farms. To address the lack of observations to answer these questions, we developed the Crop Wind Energy Experiment (CWEX) as a multiagency, multiuniversity field program in central Iowa. Throughout the summer of 2010, surface fluxes were documented within a wind farm test site and a 2-week deployment of a vertically pointing lidar quantified wind profiles. In 2011, we expanded measurements at the site by deploying six flux stations and two wind-profiling lidars to document turbine wakes. The results provide valuable insights into the exchanges over a surface that has been modified by wind turbines and a basis for a more comprehensive measurement program planned for the summer in 2014.
Eastern Pacific Emitted Aerosol Cloud Experiment
Authors: Russell Lynn M. , Sorooshian Armin , Seinfeld John H. , Albrecht Bruce A. , Nenes Athanasios , Ahlm Lars , Chen Yi-Chun , Coggon Matthew , Craven Jill S. , Flagan Richard C. , Frossard Amanda A. , Jonsson Haflidi , Jung Eunsil , Lin Jack J. , Metcalf Andrew R. , Modini Robin , Mülmenstädt Johannes , Roberts Greg , Shingler Taylor , Song Siwon , Wang Zhen , Wonaschütz Anna
Published: May 2013

Aerosol–cloud–radiation interactions are widely held to be the largest single source of uncertainty in climate model projections of future radiative forcing due to increasing anthropogenic emissions. The underlying causes of this uncertainty among modeled predictions of climate are the gaps in our fundamental understanding of cloud processes. There has been significant progress with both observations and models in addressing these important questions but quantifying them correctly is nontrivial, thus limiting our ability to represent them in global climate models. The Eastern Pacific Emitted Aerosol Cloud Experiment (E-PEACE) 2011 was a targeted aircraft campaign with embedded modeling studies, using the Center for Interdisciplinary Remotely-Piloted Aircraft Studies (CIRPAS) Twin Otter aircraft and the research vessel Point Sur in July and August 2011 off the central coast of California, with a full payload of instruments to measure particle and cloud number, mass, composition, and water uptake distributions. EPEACE used three emitted particle sources to separate particle-induced feedbacks from dynamical variability, namely 1) shipboard smoke-generated particles with 0.05–1-μm diameters (which produced tracks measured by satellite and had drop composition characteristic of organic smoke), 2) combustion particles from container ships with 0.05–0.2-μm diameters (which were measured in a variety of conditions with droplets containing both organic and sulfate components), and 3) aircraft-based milled salt particles with 3–5-μm diameters (which showed enhanced drizzle rates in some clouds). The aircraft observations were consistent with past large-eddy simulations of deeper clouds in ship tracks and aerosol– cloud parcel modeling of cloud drop number and composition, providing quantitative constraints on aerosol effects on warm-cloud microphysics.
Synergistic Interactions between Urban Heat Islands and Heat Waves: The Impact in Cities Is Larger than the Sum of Its Parts
Authors: Li Dan , Bou-Zeid Elie
Published: May 2013

Cities are well known to be hotter than the rural areas that surround them; this phenomenon is called the urban heat island. Heat waves are excessively hot periods during which the air temperatures of both urban and rural areas increase significantly. However, whether urban and rural temperatures respond in the same way to heat waves remains a critical unanswered question. In this study, a combination of observational and modeling analyses indicates synergies between urban heat islands and heat waves. That is, not only do heat waves increase the ambient temperatures, but they also intensify the difference between urban and rural temperatures. As a result, the added heat stress in cities will be even higher than the sum of the background urban heat island effect and the heat wave effect. Results presented here also attribute this added impact of heat waves on urban areas to the lack of surface moisture in urban areas and the low wind speed associated with heat waves. Given that heat waves are projected to become more frequent and that urban populations are substantially increasing, these findings underline the serious heat-related health risks facing urban residents in the twenty-first century. Adaptation and mitigation strategies will require joint efforts to reinvent the city, allowing for more green spaces and lesser disruption of the natural water cycle.
A Revised Conceptual Model of the Tropical Marine Boundary Layer. Part III: Bragg Scattering Layer Statistical Properties
Authors: Davison Jennifer L. , Rauber Robert M. , Di Girolamo Larry , LeMone Margaret A.
Published: May 2013

This paper examines the structure and variability of the moisture field in the tropical marine boundary layer (TMBL) as defined by Bragg scattering layers (BSLs) observed with S-band radar. Typically, four to five BSLs were present in the TMBL, including the transition layer at the top of the surface-based mixed layer. The transition-layer depth (~350 m) exhibited a weak diurnal cycle because of changes in the mixed-layer depth. BSLs and the “clear” layers between them each had a median thickness of about 350 m and a lifetime over the radar of 8.4 h, with about 25% having lifetimes longer than 20 h. More (fewer) BSLs were present when surface winds had a more southerly (northerly) component. Both BSLs and clear layers increased in depth with increasing rain rates, with the rainiest days producing layers that were about 100 m thicker than those on the driest days. The analyses imply that the relative humidity (RH) field in the TMBL exhibits layering on scales observable by radar. Satellite and wind profiler measurements show that the layered RH structure is related, at least in part, to detraining cloudy air.

Based on analyses in this series of papers, a revised conceptual model of the TMBL is presented that emphasizes moisture variability and incorporates multiple moist and dry layers and a higher TMBL top. The model is supported by comparing BSL tops with satellite-derived cloud tops. This comparison suggests that the layered RH structure is related, in part, to cloud detrainment at preferred altitudes within the TMBL. The potential ramifications of this change in TMBL conceptualization on modeling of the TMBL are discussed.
Michael Ondaatje’s Divisadero as rhizomic novel
Authors: Concilio Carmelina
Published: May 2013

Michael Ondaatje’s novel Divisadero (2007) can be considered a global novel — although it resists certain aspects of globalization — not only because it stages a variety of geographies, from Nevada and California to Southern France, but also because it portrays orphans, displaced subjects, gypsies, all characterized by a nomadic existence and ideology. In particular, Anna, the American protagonist, retraces the biography of a French writer, Lucien Segura, which causes her eventually to embody and write through Colette, the well-known French feminist writer. It is particularly the genre of the fictional biography that translates the death of the author (Segura) into an autobiography (Anna’s own life story) through which Colette’s own autobiographical path surfaces as a ghostly ancestor. The international scenario also encompasses the Second World War as well as the Gulf Wars and the novel balances the right to oblivion with the importance of memory to retrieve the past. This essay is aimed at illustrating how nomadism and cosmopolitanism remain central paradigms in Ondaatje’s global narrative and how they become embedded in the genre of the fictional biography.
Educational Intervention Reduces Complications and Rehospitalizations After Heart Surgery
Authors: Fredericks Suzanne , Yau Terrence
Published: May 2013

The effectiveness of in-hospital self-care patient education, delivered to patients following heart surgery, is questionable, as evidence indicates individuals are not able to absorb and/or retain information at this time. In the absence of adequate instruction, individuals will not have the relevant information to engage in specific self-care behaviors, resulting in the onset of complications and/or hospital readmissions. The purpose of this pilot study was to collect preliminary evidence to demonstrate the impact of an individualized education intervention given above and beyond usual care, delivered, at two points in time, following hospital discharge. A randomized controlled trial was used in which 34 patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Chi-square analyses to examine differences between groups on complications and hospital readmission rates were conducted. Findings point to the impact of the intervention in reducing the number of hospital readmissions and complications at 3 months following hospital discharge.
2012 European guideline on the diagnosis and treatment of gonorrhoea in adults
Authors: Bignell C , Unemo M ,   The European STI Guidelines Editorial Board, Radcliffe Keith , Jensen Jørgen Skov , Babayan Karen , Barton Simon , Cusini Marco , Gomberg Mikhail , Janier Michel , Khotenashvili Lali , Moi Harald , Neumann Martino , Patel Raj , Ross Jonathan , Sherrard Jackie , Tiplica George-Sorin , Unemo Magnus , Van De Laar Marita , Van Der Willem
Published: May 2013

Gonorrhoea is a major public health concern globally. Of particularly grave concern is that resistance to the extended-spectrum cephalosporins has emerged during the most recent years. This guideline provides recommendations regarding the diagnosis and treatment of gonorrhoea in Europe. Compared to the outdated 2009 European gonorrhoea guideline, this 2012 European gonorrhoea guideline provides up-to-date guidance on, broader indications for testing and treatment of gonorrhoea; the introduction of dual antimicrobial therapy (ceftriaxone 500 mg and azithromycin 2 g) for uncomplicated gonorrhoea when the antimicrobial sensitivity is unknown; recommendation of test of cure in all gonorrhoea cases to ensure eradication of infection and identify emerging resistance; and recommendations to identify, verify and report failures with recommended treatment regimens. Optimisations of the testing, diagnostics, antimicrobial treatment and follow-up of gonorrhoea patients are crucial in controlling the emergent spread of cephalosporin-resistant and multidrug-resistant gonorrhoea.
Economic accountability and strategic calibration
Authors: Burden Barry C
Published: May 2013

I argue that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) of Japan employed a strategy to prevent unpopular prime ministers from tainting the party’s image. Time-series analyses of public opinion data from 1960 to 2006 show that national economic performance had modest effects on prime minister support ratings and no effects on LDP ratings. When prime minister ratings fall below party ratings, cabinets are more likely to be reshuffled and prime ministers to be replaced to avoid having the cabinet’s negative image ‘rub off’ on the LDP. Although electoral rules, culture, and other factors surely play a role in sustaining the LDP, I show for the first time that the party manages its cabinet personnel strategically to maintain support.
Paid carers’ experiences of caring for mechanically ventilated children at home
Authors: Maddox Christina , Pontin David
Published: May 2013

UK survival rates for long-term mechanically ventilated children have increased and paid carers are trained to care for them at home, however there is limited literature on carers' training needs and experience of sharing care. Using a qualitative abductive design, we purposively sampled experienced carers to generate data via diaries, semi-structured interviews, and researcher reflexive notes. Research ethics approval was granted from NHS and University committees. Five analytical themes emerged - Parent as expert; Role definition tensions; Training and Continuing Learning Needs; Mixed Emotions; Support Mechanisms highlighting the challenges of working in family homes for carers and their associated learning needs. Further work on preparing carers to share feelings with parents, using burnout prevention techniques, and building confidence is suggested. Carers highlight the lack of clinical supervision during their night-working hours. One solution may be to provide access to registered nurse support when working out-of-office hours.
Non-medical out-of-pocket expenses incurred by families during their child’s hospitalization
Authors: DiFazio Rachel L , Vessey Judith A
Published: May 2013

Little is known about the nonmedical out of pocket expenses (NOOPEs) incurred by families of hospitalized children. The purpose of this study is to help nurses, other healthcare providers, hospital administrators, and policymakers better understand the NOOPEs incurred by families during their child’s hospitalization. Parents of children (n = 50) who underwent orthopedic surgery at a major tertiary-care children’s hospital reported all NOOPEs incurred during their child’s hospitalization. Descriptive statistics and univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data. The total NOOPEs ranged from $17.00 to $4745.00 (M = $736.21) per hospitalization, with 2096 missed hours from work. Length of stay, gross family income, distance from the hospital, and Hollingshead score are significant predictors of expenses (F-ratio = 732.88, p < 0.001). Hospitalization is associated with numerous NOOPEs. Future research needs to investigate the total array of expenses to families.
Do parents of obese children use ineffective parenting strategies?
Authors: Morawska Alina , West Felicity
Published: May 2013

Research has shown mixed findings about the relationship between parenting style and child lifestyle outcomes. This paper describes a cross-sectional study that aimed to clarify the relationship between ineffective parenting and childhood obesity by using multiple measures of child and family functioning. Sixty-two families with an obese child (aged four to 11 years) were matched with 62 families with a healthy weight child on key sociodemographic variables. Significant differences were found on several measures, including general parenting style, domain-specific parenting practices, and parenting self-efficacy ( d = .53 to 1.96). Parents of obese children were more likely to use permissive and coercive discipline techniques, and to lack confidence in managing children’s lifestyle behaviour. In contrast, parents of healthy weight children were more likely to implement specific strategies for promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Mothers’ expectations and other factors affecting breastfeeding at six months in Greece
Authors: Bouras Georgios , Mexi-Bourna Panagioula , Bournas Nicolaos , Christodoulou Christos , Daskalaki Anna , Tasiopoulou Ioanna , Poulios Antonios
Published: May 2013

The objective of this study is to determine the factors influencing breastfeeding duration in Greece. A total of 145 women were interviewed, on the third day post-partum. Women were followed up by telephone interviews at three and six months post-partum. Chi-square test and binomial sequential logistic regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Results from this study show that baby-friendly hospital, antenatal courses, mother’s perception of her capability to successfully breastfeed her infant, mother’s intention to breastfeed for a duration of six months or more, mother’s and father’s education level, introduction of complementary foods or fluids, caesarean delivery, smoking and ethnicity were significantly associated with the duration of breastfeeding. In conclusion, additional antenatal and postnatal framework is necessary. Mothers’ prediction of the duration of breastfeeding is an additional tool for identification of women with a high probability for early weaning.
Are low income patients receiving the benefits of electronic health records? A statewide survey
Authors: Butler Matthew J , Harootunian Gevork , Johnson William G
Published: May 2013

There are concerns that physicians serving low-income, Medicaid patients, in the United States are less likely to adopt electronic health records and, if so, that Medicaid patients will be denied the benefits from electronic health record use. This study seeks to determine whether physicians treating Medicaid patients were less likely to have adopted electronic health records. Physician surveys completed during physicians’ license renewal process in Arizona were merged with the physician licensing data and Medicaid administrative claims data. Survey responses were received from 50.7 percent (6,780 out of 13,380) of all physicians practicing in Arizona. Physician survey responses were used to identify whether the physician used electronic health records and the degree to which the physician exchanged electronic health records with other health-care providers. Medicaid claims data were used to identify which physicians provided health care to Medicaid beneficiaries. The primary outcome of interest was whether Medicaid providers were more or less likely to have adopted electronic health records. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate average marginal effects. In multivariate analysis, physicians with 20 or more Medicaid patients during the survey cycle were 4.1 percent more likely to use an electronic health record and 5.2 percent more likely to be able to transmit electronic health records to at least one health-care provider outside of their practice. These effects increase in magnitude when the analysis is restricted to solo practice physicians This is the first study to find a pro-Medicaid gap in electronic health record adoption suggesting that the low income patients served by Arizona’s Health Care Cost Containment System are not at a disadvantage with regard to electronic health record access and that Arizona’s model of promoting electronic health record adoption merits further study.
Factors associated with change in Internet usage of Swedish older adults (2004–2010)
Authors: Berner Jessica S , Rennemark Mikael , Jogréus Claes , Berglund Johan
Published: May 2013

The increased reliance on Internet use in social functions has presumably left out a part of the population: the oldest-older adults. These are people who have not kept themselves up to date with the technological developments for various reasons. There are, however, exceptions from whom we have something to learn. This study investigates the older people in Sweden who started to use the Internet over a period of 6 years. Cognition, extraversion, openness, functional disability, household economy, sex, age and education were investigated in relation to starting to use the Internet. A chi-square test, Spearman correlation and a logistic regression analysis were conducted. It was found that higher cognition, being male and being between the ages of 60 and 80 years were determining factors in starting to use the Internet for the Swedish older adult. Our results indicate that the oldest-older adults are slow to adapt to using the Internet and more attention should be paid on how to support this group.
Improving major amputation rates in the multicomplex diabetic foot patient: focus on the severity of peripheral arterial disease
Authors: Brechow Andrej , Slesaczeck Torsten , Münch Dirk , Nanning Thomas , Paetzold Hartmut , Schwanebeck Uta , Bornstein Stefan , Weck Matthias
Published: May 2013

Objective:

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), as well as diabetic neuropathy, is a risk factor for the development of diabetic foot ulcers. The aim of this study was to evaluate differences and predictors of outcome parameters in patients with diabetic foot by stratifying these subjects according to the severity of PAD.

Research design and methods:

In a prospective study, patients with new diabetic foot ulcers have been treated and investigated by structured healthcare. Subjects were recruited between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2007. All study participants underwent a 2-year follow-up observation period. The patients underwent a standardized examination and classification of their foot ulcers according to a modification of the University of Texas Wound Classification System. The severity of PAD was estimated by measurement of the ankle brachial index (ABI) and the continuous wave Doppler flow curve into undisturbed perfusion (0.9 < ABI < 1.3), compensated perfusion (0.5 < ABI < 0.9), decompensated perfusion (ABI < 0.5) and medial arterial calcification.

Results:

A total of 678 patients with diabetic foot were consecutively included into the study (69% male, mean age 66.3 ± 11.0 years, mean diabetes duration 15.8 ± 10.2 years). Major amputations (above the ankle) were performed in 4.7% of the patients. 22.1% of these subjects had decompensated PAD. These subjects had delayed ulcer healing, higher risk for major amputation [odds ratio (OR) 7.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.8–21.2, p < 0.001] and mortality (OR 4.9, 95 % CI 1.1–22.1, p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

This prospective study shows that the severity of PAD significantly influences the outcome of diabetic foot ulcers regarding to wound healing, major amputation and mortality.
Managing School Safety in Thailand
Authors: Srichai Pachernwaat , Yodmongkol Pitipong , Sureephong Pradorn , Meksamoot Komsak
Published: May 2013

Child injuries are replacing infectious disease as the leading cause of mortality in developing countries. As school is one of the environments where children spend significant time during their formative years, school safety should be effectively managed, promoted, and prioritized. In Thailand however, school safety is considered to be of low priority compared with other educational issues, lacking effective policy, and with schools struggling to justify safety costs. This article proposes a novel application of lean thinking to control the cost, bureaucracy, and waste associated with managing and administering a safe school. Through a case study in northern Thailand, one primary school’s current safety scenario is reviewed with regard to people, finance, and operations, before applying a lean framework to improve the handling of safety suggestions. Results show significant capacity to improve the management of school safety, along with management implications and potential to expand the framework beyond Thailand.
Positive selection of mC46-expressing CD4+ T cells and maintenance of virus specific immunity in a primate AIDS model
Authors: Younan Patrick M. , Polacino Patricia , Kowalski John P. , Peterson Christopher W. , Maurice Nicholas J. , Williams Nathaniel P. , Ho On , Trobridge Grant D. , Von Laer Dorothee , Prlic Martin , Beard Brian C. , DeRosa Stephen , Hu Shiu-Lok , Kiem Hans-Peter
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Stem cell gene therapy results in enhanced virus-specific immunity and recovery of CD4+ T cells in a nonhuman primate model of AIDS. Gene therapy–mediated protection of stem cells results in a disease state similar to that observed in long-term nonprogressors.
Identifying Mendelian disease genes with the Variant Effect Scoring Tool
Authors: Carter Hannah , Douville Christopher , Stenson Peter D , Cooper David N , Karchin Rachel
Published: May 2013

Background

Whole exome sequencing studies identify hundreds to thousands of rare protein coding variants of ambiguous significance for human health. Computational tools are needed to accelerate the identification of specific variants and genes that contribute to human disease.

Results

We have developed the Variant Effect Scoring Tool (VEST), a supervised machine learning-based classifier, to prioritize rare missense variants with likely involvement in human disease. The VEST classifier training set comprised ~ 45,000 disease mutations from the latest Human Gene Mutation Database release and another ~45,000 high frequency (allele frequency>1%) putatively neutral missense variants from the Exome Sequencing Project. VEST outperforms some of the most popular methods for prioritizing missense variants in carefully designed holdout benchmarking experiments (VEST ROC AUC = 0.91, PolyPhen2 ROC AUC = 0.86, SIFT4.0 ROC AUC = 0.84). VEST estimates variant score p-values against a null distribution of VEST scores for neutral variants not included in the VEST training set. These p-values can be aggregated at the gene level across multiple disease exomes to rank genes for probable disease involvement. We tested the ability of an aggregate VEST gene score to identify candidate Mendelian disease genes, based on whole-exome sequencing of a small number of disease cases. We used whole-exome data for two Mendelian disorders for which the causal gene is known. Considering only genes that contained variants in all cases, the VEST gene score ranked dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) number 2 of 2253 genes in four cases of Miller syndrome, and myosin-3 (MYH3) number 2 of 2313 genes in three cases of Freeman Sheldon syndrome.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the potential power gain of aggregating bioinformatics variant scores into gene-level scores and the general utility of bioinformatics in assisting the search for disease genes in large-scale exome sequencing studies. VEST is available as a stand-alone software package athttp://wiki.chasmsoftware.organd is hosted by the CRAVAT web server athttp://www.cravat.us