bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco-friendly indigo reduction using bokbunja (Rubus coreanus Miq.) sludge
Authors: Shin Younsook , Choi Min , Yoo Dong Il
Published: December 2014

The utilization of Bokbunja (Rubus coreanus) sludge as a source of reductant was investigated to develop an eco-friendly indigo dyeing process. Total sugar contents were 18.94 and 50.87% for ethanol and water extracts, respectively. The extract was effective to reduce indigo dye. Reduction of indigo was occured rapidly in the solution containing the extract and indigo dye in alkaline condition and it reached to the maximum color yield in one or two day. The reduction potential of the extract was stabilized between -550 mV and -600 mV depending on concentration of the extract. At higher concentration of the extract, reduction power was maintained stably for longer time and stronger color yield. It was confirmed that the Bokbunja sludge extract can be an eco-friendly and safe alternative to sodium dithionite as a reducing agent in indigo dyeing processes.
Water-based acrylic copolymer as an environment-friendly corrosion inhibitor onto carbon steel in 1 M H2SO4 in static and dynamic conditions
Authors: Dinmohammadi Hamid Reza , Davoodi Ali , Farzi Gholam Ali , Korojy Bahman
Published: December 2014

Background

The green corrosion inhibitors serve recently as a source of environmental friendly materials in the corrosive media. In present study, corrosion inhibitive performance of a new environment-friendly acrylic copolymer (methyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate/acrylic acid) on the mild steel in 1 M H2SO4solution in the quiescence and hydrodynamic conditions was investigated.

Methods

Corrosion studies was performed by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), quantum chemical calculations, optical microscopy and rotating disk electrode (RDE) techniques.

Results

Polarization experiment showed that the inhibition efficiency increased with increasing the inhibitor concentration and the inhibitor acted as mixed–type controls predominantly cathodic reaction in whole conditions. The thermodynamic calculations showed that the inhibitor obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The increase in the inhibitor concentration and immersion time had a positive effect on inhibition efficiency while temperature had a negative effect. In the hydrodynamic conditions in 600 ppm (optimum inhibitor concentration), the most efficiency was at 1500 rpm rotation speed which was attributed to the enhance mass transfer of inhibitor to the metal surface and then decreased through the high shear stress. Theoretical Density function theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the unshared pairs of electrons on oxygen atoms in functional groups such as OH, C=O and also π electrons in double bonds in structures of three monomers are suitable centers to adsorb. Finally, optical images showed that the presence of inhibitor decreased the corrosion attack sites on the surface.

Conclusions

Acrylic copolymer (methyl methacrylate/butyl acrylate/acrylic acid was synthesized and it is suitable inhibitor for mild steel in 1M H2SO4solution in static conditions and increasing its concentration increases its inhibition efficiency.
A Survey of Scholarly Literature Describing the Field of Bioinformatics Education and Bioinformatics Educational Research
Authors: Magana Alejandra J. , Taleyarkhan Manaz , Alvarado Daniela Rivera , Kane Michael , Springer John , Clase Kari
Published: December 2014

Bioinformatics education can be broadly defined as the teaching and learning of the use of computer and information technology, along with mathematical and statistical analysis for gathering, storing, analyzing, interpreting, and integrating data to solve biological problems. The recent surge of genomics, proteomics, and structural biology in the potential advancement of research and development in complex biomedical systems has created a need for an educated workforce in bioinformatics. However, effectively integrating bioinformatics education through formal and informal educational settings has been a challenge due in part to its cross-disciplinary nature. In this article, we seek to provide an overview of the state of bioinformatics education. This article identifies: 1) current approaches of bioinformatics education at the undergraduate and graduate levels; 2) the most common concepts and skills being taught in bioinformatics education; 3) pedagogical approaches and methods of delivery for conveying bioinformatics concepts and skills; and 4) assessment results on the impact of these programs, approaches, and methods in students’ attitudes or learning. Based on these findings, it is our goal to describe the landscape of scholarly work in this area and, as a result, identify opportunities and challenges in bioinformatics education.
A Central Support System Can Facilitate Implementation and Sustainability of a Classroom-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in Genomics
Authors: Lopatto David , Hauser Charles , Jones Christopher J. , Paetkau Don , Chandrasekaran Vidya , Dunbar David , MacKinnon Christy , Stamm Joyce , Alvarez Consuelo , Barnard Daron , Bedard James E. J. , Bednarski April E. , Bhalla Satish , Braverman John M. , Burg Martin , Chung Hui-Min , DeJong Randall J. , DiAngelo Justin R. , Du Chunguang , Eckdahl Todd T. , Emerson Julia , Frary Amy , Frohlich Donald , Goodman Anya L. , Gosser Yuying , Govind Shubha , Haberman Adam , Hark Amy T. , Hoogewerf Arlene , Johnson Diana , Kadlec Lisa , Kaehler Marian , Key S. Catherine Silver , Kokan Nighat P. , Kopp Olga R. , Kuleck Gary A. , Lopilato Jane , Martinez-Cruzado Juan C. , McNeil Gerard , Mel Stephanie , Nagengast Alexis , Overvoorde Paul J. , Parrish Susan , Preuss Mary L. , Reed Laura D. , Regisford E. Gloria , Revie Dennis , Robic Srebrenka , Roecklien-Canfield Jennifer A. , Rosenwald Anne G. , Rubin Michael R. , Saville Kenneth , Schroeder Stephanie , Sharif Karim A. , Shaw Mary , Skuse Gary , Smith Christopher D. , Smith Mary , Smith Sheryl T. , Spana Eric P. , Spratt Mary , Sreenivasan Aparna , Thompson Jeffrey S. , Wawersik Matthew , Wolyniak Michael J. , Youngblom James , Zhou Leming , Buhler Jeremy , Mardis Elaine , Leung Wilson , Shaffer Christopher D. , Threlfall Jennifer , Elgin Sarah C. R.
Published: December 2014

In their 2012 report, the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology advocated “replacing standard science laboratory courses with discovery-based research courses”—a challenging proposition that presents practical and pedagogical difficulties. In this paper, we describe our collective experiences working with the Genomics Education Partnership, a nationwide faculty consortium that aims to provide undergraduates with a research experience in genomics through a scheduled course (a classroom-based undergraduate research experience, or CURE). We examine the common barriers encountered in implementing a CURE, program elements of most value to faculty, ways in which a shared core support system can help, and the incentives for and rewards of establishing a CURE on our diverse campuses. While some of the barriers and rewards are specific to a research project utilizing a genomics approach, other lessons learned should be broadly applicable. We find that a central system that supports a shared investigation can mitigate some shortfalls in campus infrastructure (such as time for new curriculum development, availability of IT services) and provides collegial support for change. Our findings should be useful for designing similar supportive programs to facilitate change in the way we teach science for undergraduates.
Editorial: RSV: a new box of delights for an old enemy
Authors: Sabroe Ian , Dockrell David H , Culley Fiona J
Published: December 2014

Discussion on potential new therapies for respiratory syncytial virus.
Amplitude and phase versus angle for elastic wide-angle reflections in the τ‐p domain
Authors: Zhu Xinfa , McMechan George A.
Published: December 2014

Near- and postcritical spherical-wave reflections contain amplitude and phase variations with incident angle that are not predicted by plane-wave solutions. However, if a spherical wavefield is decomposed into plane waves by a time-intercept-slowness ([Formula: see text]) transform, then plane-wave reflection coefficients (the Zoeppritz) can be used as the basis of amplitude/phase versus angle analysis. The spherical-wave effects on reflection coefficients near the critical angle (in the time-offset domain) were decomposed by [Formula: see text] transformation into plane waves. Kinematic ray tracing linked the reflection angle at the target reflector and the apparent slowness at the surface receiver, which enabled extracting the amplitude/phase versus angle data at the reflector from the surface [Formula: see text] data. The most reliable inversion results were obtained by combining the extracted amplitudes and phases in a composite inversion for the elastic parameters below the target reflector.
A study of fuzzy c-means coupling for joint inversion, using seismic tomography and gravity data test scenarios
Authors: Carter-McAuslan Angela , Lelièvre Peter G. , Farquharson Colin G.
Published: December 2014

Joint inversion, the inversion of multiple geophysical data sets containing complementary information about the subsurface, has the potential to significantly improve inversion results by reducing the nonuniqueness of the inverse problem. One of the challenges of joint inversion is deciding how to couple the multiple physical property models. If a coupling approach is used that is inconsistent with the physical truth, then inversion artifacts can occur and may lead to incorrect interpretations. In this paper, we investigated the fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering approach to provide a lithological coupling of the seismic velocity and density models in joint 2D inversions of first-arrival traveltimes and gravity data. Even though this coupling approach has been used in previous works, recommendations for its effective use have not yet been developed. We conducted a suite of joint inversion tests on synthetic data generated from a geologically realistic model based on magmatic massive sulfide deposits. There is a known relationship between seismic velocity and density for the silicate rocks and sulfide minerals involved; this lithological relationship was used to design a clustered coupling strategy in the joint inversions. The tests we conducted clearly exhibited the benefits of joint inversion using FCM coupling. Our work revealed the effects of including inaccurate a priori physical property information. We also evaluated approaches to assess whether such inaccurate information may have been used.
A higher order perfectly matched layer formulation for finite-difference time-domain seismic wave modeling
Authors: Connolly David P. , Giannopoulos Antonios , Forde Michael C.
Published: December 2014

We have developed a higher order perfectly matched layer (PML) formulation to improve the absorption performance for finite-difference time-domain seismic modeling. First, we outlined a new unsplit “correction” approach, which allowed for traditional, first-order PMLs to be added directly to existing codes in a straightforward manner. Then, using this framework, we constructed a PML formulation that can be used to construct higher order PMLs of arbitrary order. The greater number of degrees of freedom associated with the higher order PML allow for enhanced flexibility of the PML stretching functions, thus potentially facilitating enhanced absorption performance. We found that the new approach can offer increased elastodynamic absorption, particularly for evanescent waves. We also discovered that the extra degrees of freedom associated with the higher order PML required careful optimization if enhanced absorption was to be achieved. Furthermore, these extra degrees of freedom increased the computational requirements in comparison with first-order schemes. We reached our formulations using one compact equation thus increasing the ease of implementation. Additionally, the formulations are based on a recursive integration approach that reduce PML memory requirements, and do not require special consideration for corner regions. We tested the new formulations to determine their ability to absorb body waves and surface waves. We also tested standard staggered grid stencils and rotated staggered grid stencils.
Hope, happiness and home treatment: a study into patient satisfaction with being treated at home
Authors: Hubbeling Dieneke , Bertram Robert
Published: December 2014

Aims and method

This study investigates patient satisfaction and levels of hope after receiving treatment from a home treatment team. It studies whether distributing questionnaires during the last visit increases the response rate, and explores whether patient satisfaction and levels of hope are associated with particular elements of the care received.

Results

Patients who answered the questionnaire tended to be satisfied. When forms were distributed during the last visit, the response rate increased to at least 64%. People with negative views were more likely to return the form by post. Patient satisfaction and levels of hope were associated with most elements of received care, and the resolution of problems was predictive of both satisfaction and increased hope in logistic regression.

Clinical implications

The distribution of service evaluation questionnaires during the last visit increased the response rate considerably. This study suggests that in order to improve services, it is important to focus on whether patients think their problems have been resolved.
Does a cluster always equal a cluster? Geographical variation of cluster populations
Authors: Morgan Josephine
Published: December 2014

Aims and method

To provide information regarding the extent to which the process of clustering using the mental health clustering tool captures the complexity of patient need across different geographical areas. Investigation was undertaken via a ‘deep dive’ into patient notes, with data collected on patients allocated to cluster 5, 8 or 13 in three different London boroughs.

Results

There is evidence for within-cluster differences between patients in different London boroughs in terms of various complexity factors. Further findings in relation to accuracy of clustering suggest some area-specific patterns in terms of clustering practice, raising the possibility that clinicians have different scoring thresholds in different areas.

Clinical implications

Complexity factors can affect resource use and therefore cost of service provision. In the case of a national tariff, providers of care to more complex patients may be placed at greater financial risk. It is therefore likely that some form of tariff adjustments will need to be introduced so as not to disadvantage patients and clinicians practising in areas of greater complexity.
“The Only Metaphor Left”: Colson Whitehead's Zone One and Zombie Narrative Form
Authors: Swanson Carl Joseph
Published: December 2014

This article explores Colson Whitehead's Zone One and the zombie narrative genre and outlines some of the ways each illuminates structural, generic, and aesthetic qualities in the other. Contrary to popular critical apologies, Zone One is largely a conventional zombie narrative that embraces the formal implications of the genre's tropes: notably the zombie figure itself, the barricade, and what this article calls soft and hard breaches. The zombie is a deconstructive and contagious anticharacter whose destabilizing role necessitates the construction of barricades that (1) protect the characters from infection and living death, (2) delineate a narrative space in which plot and character can develop, and (3) spatialize epistemological and aesthetic modes. Whereas hard breaches involve a narrative-threatening failure of diegetic barricades, the soft breach allows the zombie's destabilizing function to operate in the narrative space without posing a diegetic threat. Zone One's figures function similarly, as demonstrated by a formal and aesthetic analysis with specific regard to the novel's eponymous “survival space” and its constitutive barricade motif. Whitehead innovates in the genre by means of his own zombie contribution, the figure of the straggler, which facilitates more meditative thematic work than zombie narratives generally allow. This formal exploration of Zone One as a zombie narrative is meant to further zombie scholarship and to frame future critical work on the novel by contextualizing it in its genre.
Dismantling the Western: Film Noir's Defiance of Genre in No Country for Old Men
Authors: Mitchell Lee Clark
Published: December 2014

Cormac McCarthy's novel No Country for Old Men (2005), like Ethan Coen and Joel Coen's film adaptation (2007), poses two genres against one another, drawing on film noir techniques to defy what their Western materials seem to solicit. Fleeting gestures at wide-open landscape offer a teasing prospect soon abandoned; plush narrative embellishments and wide-angle shots (characteristic of the Western) are forsaken for clipped dialogue, spare descriptions, and intense close-ups, locking characters within themselves (characteristic of noir); and to intensify that effect, the film plays with an unusual series of overhead shots that immure figures in an unbreachable present that matches McCarthy's narrative configurations. As much as both the novelistic and the cinematic versions of No Country for Old Men initially might begin by encouraging a conventional Western reading, we soon find expectations sorely rebuffed. A tradition that had led to cumulative revisions of the classic Western now perversely has come to rest on sheer accident and senseless violence. The triumph of the Coens' adaptation lies in their having grasped how fully McCarthy's novel subverts Western conventions and in revealing via film noir techniques how much our desire for generic platitudes is at once misdirected and unavailing. While the Western refuses to remain dead, as the Coens' own version of True Grit (2010) reminds us, their earlier version of No Country confirms McCarthy's brilliant exposure of the skeletal twitchings in such traditional throwbacks.
Staging Transgender Solidarities at Bangalore's Queer Pride
Authors: Khubchandani Kareem
Published: December 2014

This essay analyzes narrative scenes and aesthetic choices in Because We Have a Voice Too, an activist play staged at Bangalore Pride 2012. By linking the experiences of hijras and transmen, the play enables solidarities across gender through an overarching critique of patriarchy. The connections made between FTM and MTF experiences evidences the challenges facing transmen, who are often left out of LGBT Indian discourses, and articulates hijra narratives within a specifically trans optic.
Problem of Consolidation of Legal Status of Personality in the Russian Legal System
Authors: Bayniyazova Zulfiya
Published: December 2014

The article investigates the issue of consolidation of an individual legal status in the Russian legal system. The author claims that at the present moment an individual legal status is not represented as a consolidated institution of the legal system, and the situation does not meet the needs of the legal life of the Russian society. In this connection the author suggests that a notion of “consolidated individual legal status” should be singled out in the legal science. The characteristics of consolidated individual legal status have been singled out and analyzed in the article. The author also looks into significance of consolidation of individual rights and liabilities. The author emphasizes that the value of the consolidated condition of individual rights and liabilities determines significance of the issue of consolidation of an individual legal status. The author pays close attention to the legal policy; the author claims that legal policy alongside with the legal system must be a phenomenon that fully guarantees legal self-realization of an individual, an opportunity to exercise their rights and freedoms. The author stresses the necessity of an individual legal status as a consolidated legal phenomenon, which is one of the priorities of the Russian legal system.
Ensuring Human Rights within European and Inter-American Integration (Comparative Analysis)
Authors: Gracheva Svetlana , Rafalyuk Elena
Published: December 2014

Human rights and freedoms and the guarantees of their security acquired the significance of the core values ​​of the legal process within the individual States and at the level of inter-state relationships. Integration processes and the creation of inter-state associations have had a significant impact on the development and effectiveness of systems to guarantee the rights and freedoms at the national, regional and global levels. Throughout the second half of the XX century, there is an active formation of systems of human rights protection in the various inter-state entities. The most ambitious of its distribution in space and effective in the context of the human right’s promotion are the European and Inter-American systems of human rights protection. The advantages of the regional human rights protection systems in comparison with the universal mechanisms to support them are: the availability of special territorial and legal space for human rights; the establishment of a list of standards for the protection of the rights and freedoms that are essential for the maintenance and sustainability of socio-cultural, political and economic ties within the appropriate space; the functioning of the interconnected competent supranational structures and institutions to provide within a specific territorial and legal environment protection of the rights and freedoms of the individuals. The protection of human rights is becoming a factor of the unification of the national legal order through the establishment of human rights standards within the legal space, covering a significant number of countries with common cultural, historical, political and legal traditions.
Re-admissions, re-operations and length of stay in hospital after aseptic revision knee replacement in Denmark
Authors: Lindberg-Larsen M. , Jørgensen C. C. , Bæk Hansen T. , Solgaard S. , Odgaard A. , Kehlet H.
Published: December 2014

We present detailed information about early morbidity after aseptic revision knee replacement from a nationwide study. All aseptic revision knee replacements undertaken between 1st October 2009 and 30th September 2011 were analysed using the Danish National Patient Registry with additional information from the Danish Knee Arthroplasty Registry. The 1218 revisions involving 1165 patients were subdivided into total revisions, large partial revisions, partial revisions and revisions of unicondylar replacements (UKR revisions). The mean age was 65.0 years (27 to 94) and the median length of hospital stay was four days (interquartile range: 3 to 5), with a 90 days re-admission rate of 9.9%, re-operation rate of 3.5% and mortality rate of 0.2%. The age ranges of 51 to 55 years (p = 0.018), 76 to 80 years (p < 0.001) and ≥ 81 years (p < 0.001) were related to an increased risk of re-admission. The age ranges of 76 to 80 years (p = 0.018) and the large partial revision subgroup (p = 0.073) were related to an increased risk of re-operation. The ages from 76 to 80 years (p < 0.001), age ≥ 81 years (p < 0.001) and surgical time > 120 min (p <  0.001) were related to increased length of hospital stay, whereas the use of a tourniquet (p = 0.008) and surgery in a low volume centre (p = 0.013) were related to shorter length of stay.

In conclusion, we found a similar incidence of early post-operative morbidity after aseptic knee revisions as has been reported after primary procedures. This suggests that a length of hospital stay ≤ four days and discharge home at that time is safe following aseptic knee revision surgery in Denmark.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1649–56.
Significant muscle damage after multiple revision total hip replacements through the direct lateral approach
Authors: von Roth P. , Abdel M. P. , Wauer F. , Winkler T. , Wassilew G. , Diederichs G. , Perka C.
Published: December 2014

Intact abductors of the hip play a crucial role in preventing limping and are known to be damaged through the direct lateral approach. The extent of trauma to the abductors after revision total hip replacement (THR) is unknown. The aim of this prospective study was to compare the pre- and post-operative status of the gluteus medius muscle after revision THR. We prospectively compared changes in the muscle and limping in 30 patients who were awaiting aseptic revision THR and 15 patients undergoing primary THR. The direct lateral approach as described by Hardinge was used for all patients. MRI scans of the gluteus medius and functional analyses were recorded pre-operatively and six months post-operatively. The overall mean fatty degeneration of the gluteus medius increased from 35.8% (1.1 to 98.8) pre-operatively to 41% (1.5 to 99.8) after multiple revision THRs (p = 0.03). There was a similar pattern after primary THR, but with considerably less muscle damage (p = 0.001), indicating progressive muscle damage. Despite an increased incidence of a positive Trendelenburg sign following revision surgery (p = 0.03) there was no relationship between the cumulative fatty degeneration in the gluteus medius and a positive Trendelenburg sign (p = 0.26). The changes associated with other surgical approaches to the hip warrant investigation.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1618–22.
The impact of diabetes on the short- to mid-term outcome of total ankle replacement
Authors: Choi W. J. , Lee J. S. , Lee M. , Park J. H. , Lee J. W.
Published: December 2014

We compared the clinical and radiographic results of total ankle replacement (TAR) performed in non-diabetic and diabetic patients. We identified 173 patients who underwent unilateral TAR between 2004 and 2011 with a minimum of two years’ follow-up. There were 88 male (50.9%) and 85 female (49.1%) patients with a mean age of 66 years (sd 7.9, 43 to 84). There were 43 diabetic patients, including 25 with controlled diabetes and 18 with uncontrolled diabetes, and 130 non-diabetic patients. The clinical data which were analysed included the Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS) and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, as well the incidence of peri-operative complications.

The mean AOS and AOFAS scores were significantly better in the non-diabetic group (p = 0.018 and p = 0.038, respectively). In all, nine TARs (21%) in the diabetic group had clinical failure at a mean follow-up of five years (24 to 109), which was significantly higher than the rate of failure of 15 (11.6%) in the non-diabetic group (p = 0.004). The uncontrolled diabetic subgroup had a significantly poorer outcome than the non-diabetic group (p = 0.02), and a higher rate of delayed wound healing.

The incidence of early-onset osteolysis was higher in the diabetic group than in the non-diabetic group (p = 0.02). These results suggest that diabetes mellitus, especially with poor glycaemic control, negatively affects the short- to mid-term outcome after TAR.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:1674–80.
Evaluation of the Instability Severity Index Score and the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index as predictors of failure following arthroscopic Bankart repair
Authors: Bouliane M. , Saliken D. , Beaupre L. A. , Silveira A. , Saraswat M. K. , Sheps D. M.
Published: December 2014

In this study we evaluated whether the Instability Severity Index Score (ISIS) and the Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) could detect those patients at risk of failure following arthroscopic Bankart repair. Between April 2008 and June 2010, the ISIS and WOSI were recorded pre-operatively in 110 patients (87 male, 79%) with a mean age of 25.1 years (16 to 61) who underwent this procedure for recurrent anterior glenohumeral instability.

A telephone interview was performed two-years post-operatively to determine whether patients had experienced a recurrent dislocation and whether they had returned to pre-injury activity levels. In all, six (5%) patients had an ISIS > 6 points (0 to 9). Of 100 (91%) patients available two years post-operatively, six (6%) had a recurrent dislocation, and 28 (28%) did not return to pre-injury activity. No patient who dislocated had an ISIS > 6 (p = 1.0). There was no difference in the mean pre-operative WOSI in those who had a re-dislocation and those who did not (p = 0.99). The pre-operative WOSI was significantly lower (p = 0.02) in those who did not return to pre-injury activity, whereas the ISIS was not associated with return to pre-injury activity (p = 0.13).

In conclusion, neither the pre-operative ISIS nor WOSI predicted recurrent dislocation within two years of arthroscopic Bankart repair. Patients with a lower pre-operative WOSI were less likely to return to pre-injury activity.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014; 96-B:1688–92.
The Dynamic Shear Modulus and Damping Ratio of Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Kurt Z. Nese , Akbulut Suat
Published: December 2014

Clay soils are very useful as liners in geotechnical structures such as landfill sites, dams, water channels, etc. Swelling is a common problem in clay liners, however. To better understand swelling properties, in the present study clay nanocomposites were produced by means of the sol gel method, using a hydrophobic clay, polymers (locust bean gum, latex, glycerine, vinyl acrylic copolymer), and rubber powder. The study focused on the swelling and dynamic properties (secant shear modulus and damping ratio) of the clay nanocomposites researched experimentally in laboratory conditions. The dynamic tests were conducted on samples compacted using two different compaction energy levels. The test results were compared with those of natural clay and hydrophobic organo-clay. The test results revealed that the damping ratios and secant shear modulus of clay nanocomposites without rubber (CNC) and with rubber (CNCr) that were compacted with both the E1 and E2 energy levels were increased and decreased, respectively. In addition, with increasing percentage of vinyl acrylic in nanoclay composites, the secant shear modulus values were decreased and damping ratio values were increased. Consequently, the test results found that the swelling and dynamic properties of clay nanocomposites can be optimized in order to attenuate the negative effects of dynamic loads on clay liners.
Peer Interactions and Friendship Opportunities Between Elementary Students With and Without Autism or Developmental Disability
Authors: Rossetti Zachary
Published: December 2014

This article describes a qualitative examination of the interactions between 2 students, 1 with autism and 1 with a developmental disability, and their peers without disabilities in 2 inclusive, public school elementary classrooms in the northeastern United States. Data were collected by naturalistic observation, semi-structured observation, and semi-structured interviews. Examining the quality and quantity of interactions, as well as the facilitating effects of educators, the goal was to identify conditions that support the development of friendship opportunities. The findings indicated that inclusive education and having classmates who accepted them were not enough to result in consistent friendship opportunities for the 2 focal students. Findings included (a) the identification of missed opportunities for educator intervention to support friendship opportunities, and (b) the success of several educator strategies to facilitate friendship opportunities. Implications and considerations to improve conditions to support friendship opportunities in inclusive elementary classrooms are shared.
Age of Persons Supported and Factors Predicting Intended Staff Turnover: A Comparative Study
Authors: Laws Carol Britton , Kolomer Stacey R. , Gallagher Megan J.
Published: December 2014

Community-based direct support professionals (DSPs) face a myriad of challenges on the job that are intensified by the complexities of supporting people with disabilities who are aging. The purpose of this study was to compare the variables of job stress/demand, empowerment/control, perceived organizational support, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and intent to turnover (identified as attitudinal antecedents to attrition), between DSPs who primarily support aging adults with an intellectual disability and those who support younger people. Ninety-seven DSPs completed an online survey. Results indicate that DSPs who support aging adults showed statistically lower empowerment/control than their peers. Data suggest that they are also at comparatively higher risk of attrition. Implications and recommendations for strengthening this workforce are shared.
Ventricular Tachycardia Associated with Radiation-Induced Cardiac Sarcoma
Authors: Beaty Elijah H. , Ballany Wassim , Trohman Richard G. , Madias Christopher
Published: December 2014

Cardiac tumors can lead to distinct electrocardiographic changes and ventricular arrhythmias. Benign and malignant cardiac tumors have been associated with ventricular tachycardia. When possible, benign tumors should be resected when ventricular arrhythmias are intractable. Chemotherapy can shrink malignant tumors and eliminate arrhythmias.

We report the case of a 52-year-old woman with breast sarcoma whom we diagnosed with myocardial metastasis after she presented with palpitations. The initial electrocardiogram revealed sinus rhythm with new right bundle branch block and ST-segment elevation in the anterior precordial leads. During telemetry, hemodynamically stable, sustained ventricular tachycardia with right ventricular localization was detected. Images showed a myocardial mass in the right ventricular free wall. Amiodarone suppressed the arrhythmia.

To our knowledge, this is the first report of ventricular tachycardia associated with radiation-induced undifferentiated sarcoma. We discuss the distinct electrocardiographic changes and ventricular arrhythmias that can be associated with cardiac tumors, and we review the relevant medical literature.
Benefits and Limitations of Multimodality Imaging in the Diagnosis of a Primary Cardiac Lymphoma
Authors: Nijjar Prabhjot Singh , Masri Sofia Carolina , Tamene Ashenafi , Kassahun Helina , Liao Kenneth , Valeti Uma
Published: December 2014

Primary cardiac tumors are far rarer than tumors metastatic to the heart. Angiosarcoma is the primary cardiac neoplasm most frequently detected; lymphomas constitute only 1% of primary cardiac tumors.

We present the case of a 55-year-old woman with a recently diagnosed intracardiac mass who was referred to our institution for consideration of urgent orthotopic heart transplantation. Initial images suggested an angiosarcoma; however, a biopsy specimen of the mass was diagnostic for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy rather than surgery, and she was asymptomatic 34 months later.

We use our patient's case to discuss the benefits and limitations of multiple imaging methods in the evaluation of cardiac masses. Certain features revealed by computed tomography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography can suggest a diagnosis of angiosarcoma rather than lymphoma. Cardiac magnetic resonance and positron emission tomography enable reliable distinction between benign and malignant tumors; however, the characteristics of different malignant tumors can overlap. Despite the great usefulness of multiple imaging methods for timely diagnosis, defining the extent of spread and the hemodynamic impact, and monitoring responses to treatment, we think that biopsy analysis is still warranted in order to obtain a correct histologic diagnosis in cases of suspected malignant cardiac tumors.
Internal Mammary Artery Graft Dissection: A Case-Based Retrospective Study and Brief Review
Authors: Khan Zeeshan , Latif Faisal , Dasari Tarun W.
Published: December 2014

The left internal mammary artery is the preferred graft for treating left anterior descending coronary artery disease. Dissection is a rare but grave sequela of internal mammary artery graft angiography. The available medical literature is scant, perhaps as a result of under-reporting.

We report a case in which dissection of the internal mammary artery graft occurred during diagnostic angiography, and we discuss its management. In addition, we review the available literature and provide a retrospective analysis of the data from our own catheterization laboratory. In our single-center analysis of 542 cases of selective internal mammary artery graft angiography, we found only the single case of internal mammary artery graft dissection (0.2%) that we report here. Our review of the literature revealed 7 reported cases of internal mammary artery graft dissection, 3 of which were iatrogenic. There were no identifiable risk factors for such dissection. After treatment with angioplasty and stenting, all patients had good outcomes during follow-up.
Aortic Valve Reconstruction with Use of Pericardial Leaflets in Adults with Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease: Early and Midterm Outcomes
Authors: Song Meong Gun , Yang Hyun Suk , Choi Jong Bum , Shin Je Kyoun , Chee Hyun Keun , Kim Jun Seok
Published: December 2014

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of adults with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease who underwent aortic valve reconstructive surgery (AVRS), consisting of replacement of the diseased BAV with 2 or 3 pericardial leaflets plus fixation of the sinotubular junction for accurate and constant leaflet coaptation. From December 2007 through April 2013, 135 consecutive patients (mean age, 49.2 ± 13.1 yr; 73.3% men) with symptomatic BAV disease underwent AVRS. Raphe was observed in 84 patients (62.2%), and the remaining 51 patients had pure BAV without raphe. A total of 122 patients (90.4%) underwent 3-leaflet reconstruction, and 13 (9.6%) underwent 2-leaflet reconstruction. Concomitant aortic wrapping with an artificial graft was performed in 63 patients (46.7%).

There were no in-hospital deaths and 2 late deaths (1.5%); 6 patients (4.4%) needed valve-related reoperation. The 5-year cumulative survival rate was 98% ± 1.5%, and freedom from valve-related reoperation at 5 years was 92.7% ± 3.6%. In the last available echocardiograms, aortic regurgitation was absent or trivial in 116 patients (85.9%), mild in 16 (11.9%), moderate in 2 (1.5%), and severe in one (0.7%). The mean aortic valve gradient was 10.2 ± 4.5 mmHg, and the mean aortic valve orifice area index was 1.3 ± 0.3 cm2/m2. The 3-leaflet technique resulted in lower valve gradients and greater valve areas than did the 2-leaflet technique. Thus, in patients with BAV, AVRS yielded satisfactory early and midterm results with low mortality rates and low reoperation risk after the initial procedure.
Anticoagulation with Bivalirudin during Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest in a Patient with Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Pericleous Agamemnon , Sadek Mostafa , Fitzmaurice Mary , Caldwell Constance , Natividad Kris , Plestis Konstadinos A.
Published: December 2014

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is a well-recognized complication of anticoagulation with heparin. We present the case of a patient with recent heparin-induced thrombocytopenia who subsequently needed surgery on an emergency basis for acute type A aortic dissection. This article reports the successful use of bivalirudin, a direct thrombin inhibitor, as an alternative to heparin throughout cardiopulmonary bypass and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. We contend that bivalirudin is a safe alternative to heparin when performing surgery for aortic dissection and should be considered as an option for use in patients who present with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.
Percutaneous Repair of Post-Myocardial Infarction Ventricular Septal Defect: Current Approaches and Future Perspectives
Authors: Baldasare Maria D. , Polyakov Mark , Laub Glenn W. , Costic Joseph T. , McCormick Daniel J. , Goldberg Sheldon
Published: December 2014

Post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect is a devastating complication of ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Although surgical intervention is considered the gold standard for treatment, it carries high morbidity and mortality rates. We present 2 cases that illustrate the application of percutaneous closure of a post-myocardial infarction ventricular septal defect: the first in a patient who had undergone prior surgical closure and then developed a new shunt, and the second as a bridge to definitive surgery in a critically ill patient.
Single Coronary Ostium in Right Coronary Sinus: Previously Unreported “One for All” Configuration
Authors: Njeim Mario , Nasr Youssef , Younes Mohamad , Song Thomas K. , Koenig Gerald C. , Nour Khaled
Published: December 2014

We report our identification of a single coronary ostium arising from the right coronary sinus of Valsalva, in a 63-year-old woman who presented with chest pain atypical of angina. Coronary angiograms showed that the left anterior descending coronary artery arose from a right ventricular branch and that the left circumflex coronary artery arose from a right posterolateral branch. Both arteries reconstituted themselves in a backward fashion from the apex to the base of the heart—a configuration that to our knowledge has not been reported. The patient was treated conservatively and reported no chest pain 24 months later.
Lean healthcare supply chain management: minimizing waste and costs
Authors: Machado Catia M L , Scavarda Annibal , Vaccaro Guilherme
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this research is to investigate the management models applied in the supply chain providing services in healthcare organizations, considering the lenses of lean. The aim of this is to develop a model of supply chain management focusing on the identification and minimization of waste, assisting in decision making and contributing to the quality of services and as a consequence the reduction of the costs involved in healthcare supply chain. The philosophies of continuous improvement and lean techniques have a role to play in helping healthcare to provide quality service and support to reduce costs in the current budget constraints. In the supply chain of hospitals the financial costs can be around 40% of its budget (MASOUMI et al. 2012; SOUZA et al., 2013). This article sheds light on the improvement in decision making and the effect of reducing costs in the healthcare supply chain. In this sense, the research intend to expand knowledge related to supply chain management in the area of provision of healthcare services through the use of the philosophy of continuous improvement and lean principles, helping healthcare to provide quality service within their current budget constraints.
Der Theatermann Otto Brahm ein widerwilliger Jude
Authors: Malkin Jeanette R.
Published: December 2014

In the history of modern theatre, Otto Brahm is canonized mainly as the founder of the Freie Bühne (1889), the first Naturalist stage in Germany, which – as a private society – produced censored plays by Ibsen and Hauptmann and opened the way for the general acceptance of socially-oriented contemporary plays on the German stage. Brahm began as an influential theatre critic who, throughout the 1880s, fought against the popular theatre which was dominated by the star-system and by French-influenced light comedies. Instead, he advocated those new plays – especially by Ibsen – that presented contemporary society in positivist detail and with a social-activist critique. Brahm maintained his faith and focus on such plays when he became director of the Berlin Deutsches Theater (1894–1904) and, later, of the Lessing-Theater (1904–1912). Throughout, he produced a quality of theatre that turned Berlin into a famous theatre capital. Brahm ’s Jewish identity has rarely been studied, mainly because Brahm himself left so little witness to it, despite the growing political and racial anti-Semitism that existed during his life. This identity, which at the time was always significant, played a considerable role both in his personal life and in his extraordinary career. This article traces this role, as well as Brahm’s complex relationship to his Judaism, with the goal of re-inscribing Brahm ’s history into a Jewish context.
Application of dimethyl N-cyanodithioiminocarbonate in synthesis of fused heterocycles and in biological chemistry
Authors: Elgemeie Galal H. , Mohamed Reham A.
Published: December 2014

The synthetic chemistry of dimethyl N-cyanodithioiminocarbonate is reviewed. The scope and limitation of the most important approaches are discussed.
On the application of the partition of unity method for nonlocal response of low-dimensional structures
Authors: Natarajan Sundararajan
Published: December 2014

The main objectives of the paper are to (1) present an overview of nonlocal integral elasticity and Aifantis gradient elasticity theory and (2) discuss the application of partition of unity methods to study the response of low-dimensional structures. We present different choices of approximation functions for gradient elasticity, namely Lagrange intepolants, moving least-squares approximants and non-uniform rational B-splines. Next, we employ these approximation functions to study the response of nanobeams based on Euler-Bernoulli and Timoshenko theories as well as to study nanoplates based on first-order shear deformation theory. The response of nanobeams and nanoplates is studied using Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory. The influence of the nonlocal parameter, the beam and the plate aspect ratio and the boundary conditions on the global response is numerically studied. The influence of a crack on the axial vibration and buckling characteristics of nanobeams is also numerically studied.
Boundary permeability: A parameter for linguistic typology
Authors: Berg Thomas
Published: December 2014

From the perspective of prototype theory, boundaries between categories can be more distinct or less so. This gradience is captured by the notion of boundary permeability which is applied to units (e.g., nouns vs. verbs), properties (e.g., count vs. mass), and levels (e.g., phonological vs. morphological).
Narrow presentational focus in Mexican Spanish: Experimental evidence
Authors: Hoot Bradley
Published: December 2014

It is most often claimed that in Spanish constituents in narrow presentational or information focus appear rightmost, where they also receive main sentence stress, while shifting the stress to the focus in its canonical position is infelicitous. Some, however, claim that Spanish in fact has recourse to both strategies for making the focus prominent, and some recent quantitative work has shown support for this alternative view. The present paper contributes to this debate by experimentally testing the realization of presentational focus in Mexican Spanish using an acceptability judgment task. The results of the experiment reveal that, for these speakers, focused constituents need not be rightmost and can in fact be stressed in non-final position, contra the consensus view. These findings expand the database on focus in Spanish and indicate that theories of the prosody/syntax interface may need to be revised, especially those theories that motivate discourse-related syntactic movement based on the requirements of the prosody.