bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperative Control of Regenerative Braking and Antilock Braking for a Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Authors: Yin Guodong , Jin XianJian
Published: November 2013

A new cooperative braking control strategy (CBCS) is proposed for a parallel hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) with both a regenerative braking system and an antilock braking system (ABS) to achieve improved braking performance and energy regeneration. The braking system of the vehicle is based on a new method of HEV braking torque distribution that makes the antilock braking system work together with the regenerative braking system harmoniously. In the cooperative braking control strategy, a sliding mode controller (SMC) for ABS is designed to maintain the wheel slip within an optimal range by adjusting the hydraulic braking torque continuously; to reduce the chattering in SMC, a boundary-layer method with moderate tuning of a saturation function is also investigated; based on the wheel slip ratio, battery state of charge (SOC), and the motor speed, a fuzzy logic control strategy (FLC) is applied to adjust the regenerative braking torque dynamically. In order to evaluate the performance of the cooperative braking control strategy, the braking system model of a hybrid electric vehicle is built in MATLAB/SIMULINK. It is found from the simulation that the cooperative braking control strategy suggested in this paper provides satisfactory braking performance, passenger comfort, and high regenerative efficiency.
Davey‐Stewartson Equation with Fractional Coordinate Derivatives
Authors: Jafari H. , Sayevand K. , Khan Yasir , Nazari M.
Published: November 2013

We have used the homotopy analysis method (HAM) to obtain solution of Davey‐Stewartson equations
of fractional order. The fractional derivative is described in the Caputo sense. The results obtained by this method have
been compared with the exact solutions. Stability and convergence of the proposed approach is investigated. The effects of
fractional derivatives for the systems under consideration are discussed. Furthermore, comparisons indicate that there is a very good agreement between the solutions of homotopy analysis method and the exact solutions in terms of accuracy.
Axillary Block as the Sole Anesthetic for Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Placement in an Infant with Goldenhar Syndrome
Authors: Bernardo-Ocampo Ma. Carmen
Published: November 2013

The use of peripheral nerve block as the sole anesthetic in infants is not very common. Studies have demonstrated that ultrasound guided (USG) peripheral nerve block is associated with higher overall success rate when compared with nerve stimulation (Rubin et al., 2009, and Gelfand et al., 2011). Described below is a medically complex infant who had an USG axillary brachial plexus block for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) placement.
Recent Progress in Chemically Bonded Phosphate Ceramics
Authors: Wagh Arun S.
Published: November 2013

Chemically bonded phosphate ceramics have made an excellent progress in the last 10 years and are poised to be one of the major inorganic room-temperature setting materials for nuclear, structural, dental, and prosthetic applications. They are also poised to be the first inorganic industrial coatings for fire and corrosion protection applications. In 2004 the author in his book,Chemically Bonded Phosphate Ceramics, presented general theory, compositions, methods of fabrication, and preliminary commercial products that appeared in the market ten years ago. This paper reviews that background and presents advances of last ten years with an emphasis on the recent applications in the nuclear field.
Numerical Study on Several Stabilized Finite Element Methods for the Steady Incompressible Flow Problem with Damping
Authors: Wu Jilian , Huang Pengzhan , Feng Xinlong
Published: November 2013

We discuss several stabilized finite element methods, which are penalty, regular, multiscale enrichment, and local Gauss integration method, for the steady incompressible flow problem with damping based on the lowest equal-order finite element space pair. Then we give the numerical comparisons between them in three numerical examples which show that the local Gauss integration method has good stability, efficiency, and accuracy properties and it is better than the others for the steady incompressible flow problem with damping on the whole. However, to our surprise, the regular method spends less CPU-time and has better accuracy properties by using Crout solver.
Interleukin-30 Expression in Prostate Cancer and Its Draining Lymph Nodes Correlates with Advanced Grade and Stage
Authors: Di Meo Serena , Airoldi Irma , Sorrentino Carlo , Zorzoli Alessia , Esposito Silvia , Di Carlo Emma
Published: November 2013

Purpose: The interleukin (IL)-27 cytokine subunit p28, also called IL-30, has been recognized as a novel immunoregulatory mediator endowed with its own functions. These are currently the subject of discussion in immunology, but completely unexplored in cancer biology. We set out to investigate the role of IL-30 in prostate carcinogenesis and its effects on human prostate cancer (hPCa) cells.

Experimental Design: IL-30 expression, as visualized by immunohistochemistry and real-time reverse transcriptase PCR on prostate and draining lymph nodes from 125 patients with prostate cancer, was correlated with clinicopathologic data. IL-30 regulation of hPCa cell viability and expression of selected gene clusters was tested by flow cytometry and PCR array.

Results: IL-30, absent in normal prostatic epithelia, was expressed by cancerous epithelia with Gleason ≥ 7% of 21.3% of prostate cancer stage I to III and 40.9% of prostate cancer stage IV. IL-30 expression by tumor infiltrating leukocytes (T-ILK) was higher in stage IV that in stage I to III prostate cancer (P = 0.0006) or in control tissue (P = 0.0011). IL-30 expression in prostate draining lymph nodes (LN)-ILK was higher in stage IV than in stage I to III prostate cancer (P = 0.0031) or in control nodes (P = 0.0023). The main IL-30 sources were identified as CD68+ macrophages, CD33+/CD11b+ myeloid cells, and CD14+ monocytes. In vitro, IL-30 stimulated proliferation of hPCa cells and also downregulated CCL16/LEC, TNFSF14/LIGHT, chemokine-like factor (CKLF), and particularly CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 3 (CMTM3) and greatly upregulated ChemR23/CMKLR.

Conclusions: We provide the first evidence that IL-30 is implicated in prostate cancer progression because (i) its expression by prostate cancer or T- and LN-ILK correlates with advanced disease grade and stage; and (ii) IL-30 exerts protumor activity in hPCa cells. Clin Cancer Res; 20(3); 585–94. ©2013 AACR.
Time to Hospital Admission and Start of Treatment in Patients with Ischemic Stroke in Northern Italy and Predictors of Delay
Authors: Vidale Simone , Beghi Ettore , Gerardi Francesca , De Piazza Claudio , Proserpio Silvia , Arnaboldi Marco , Bezzi Giacomo , Bono Giorgio , Grampa Giampiero , Guidotti Mario , Perrone Patrizia , Porazzi Daniele , Zarcone Davide , Zoli Alberto , Agostoni Elio ,   on behalf of Northern Lombardy Emergency Stroke Study Group
Published: November 2013

Background and Purpose: Early treatment (i.e. thrombolysis) is crucial for a successful care of ischemic stroke. In the management of stroke, two phases are crucial: the pre-hospital and the in-hospital interval. This work investigated factors influencing pre- and in-hospital delay in a large geographic area of Northern Italy. Methods: Enrolled were patients presenting with ischemic stroke in four administrative districts of Northern Italy (Como, Lecco, Sondrio and Varese) over a 4-month period. Pre-hospital time and in-hospital time with single management steps were recorded prospectively. Age, gender, recruiting hospital, EMS transport and triage codes, clinical severity and thrombolytic treatment were also recorded. Univariate and multivariate analysis of factors predicting pre- and in-hospital delay were performed. Results: Median pre-hospital time and in-hospital time were, respectively, 120 min (interquartile range, IQR 62-271) and 150 min (IQR 80-214). Pre-hospital time was halved in patients hospitalized via EMS (p < 0.001) and clinically more severe (p < 0.001). At multivariate analysis, transport code was associated with delay at any time (p < 0.05). Conclusions: EMS use and transport code predicted treatment delay in patients with ischemic stroke. A more intensive use of EMS and high urgency codes could help increase the number of stroke patients treated appropriately.
Seminal Vesicle Invasion: Accuracy and Analysis of Infiltration Patterns with High-Spatial Resolution T2-Weighted Sequences on Endorectal Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Roethke M. , Kaufmann S. , Kniess M. , Ketelsen D. , Claussen C.D. , Schlemmer H.P. , Stenzl A. , Schilling D.
Published: November 2013

Objective: To evaluate the accuracy of high-spatial resolution T2-weighted endorectal magnetic resonance imaging (eMRI) for detection and pattern depiction of seminal vesicle invasion (SVI) in patients with prostate cancer (PCa). Methods: 376 patients were included who underwent eMRI for staging before radical open prostatectomy at 1.5 T with an endorectal coil. Statistical accuracy for detection of SVI was calculated. MR images of patients with SVI were further evaluated by two radiologists according to the classification by Wheeler and Ohori. Results: In the cohort, 35 patients had SVI after histopathological evaluation of the prostatectomy specimen (stage pT3b). Sensitivity and specificity for detection of SVI were 48.6 and 97.7%, respectively. Negative and positive predictive values and overall accuracy were 94.9, 68.0, and 93.1%, respectively. Infiltration pattern analysis showed that type I invasion was most common with 48.6 followed by type IIa (31.4%) and IIb (20%). Type III was not present. There was no statistical significant difference between the three groups regarding Gleason score, age, and prostate-specific antigen level. Conclusions: eMRI with high-spatial resolution T2-weighted imaging is accurate for assessment of SVI. Depiction of different infiltration types of SVI is feasible. By adding information about the extent of SVI, diagnostic reporting and risk stratification could be improved.
The Effect of Rate Reduction on Signaling Prosodic Contrasts in Dysarthria
Authors: Patel Rupal , Connaghan Kathryn P. , Campellone Pamela J.
Published: November 2013

Background/Aims: To understand how reducing speaking rate alters prosodic contrasts in speakers with dysarthria (DYS) and healthy controls (HC). Methods: Seven male speakers with DYS (mean age = 34.9) and 7 age- and sex-matched HC (mean age = 36.9) produced identical phrases with affirmative (A), contrastive stress (CS) or question (Q) intonation at habitual and slow rate within a naturalistic game. Relative (word-to-word) changes in peak fundamental frequency (F0), intensity, and duration were compared across conditions, groups, and rates. Results: For some contrasts, rate reduction differentially affected the speaking groups, with HC exaggerating and speakers with DYS dampening some prosodic cues. Rate reduction diminished the Q contrast for both groups, with reduced peak F0 differences for HC and reduced word duration differences for HC and with DYS speakers. Slow rate also resulted in decreased lengthening of the final word for all three contrasts, thereby diminishing the Q contrast while exaggerating the CS and A contrasts. Conclusion: Although slow rate may improve segmental intelligibility, it may inadvertently dampen prosodic contrasts for some DYS speakers, thereby impacting communication effectiveness and naturalness. Implications for designing interventions that balance trade-offs between prosodic modulation and segmental clarity are discussed.
A Low-Dose β1-Blocker Effectively and Safely Slows the Heart Rate in Patients with Acute Decompensated Heart Failure and Rapid Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kobayashi Shigeki , Murakami Wakako , Myoren Takeki , Tateishi Hiroki , Okuda Shinichi , Doi Masahiro , Nao Tomoko , Wada Yasuaki , Matsuzaki Masunori , Yano Masafumi
Published: November 2013

Objective: Recently, we reported that low-dose landiolol (1.5 µg·kg-1·min-1), an ultra-short-acting β-blocker, safely decreased the heart rate (HR) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and sinus tachycardia, thereby improving cardiac function. We investigated whether low-dose landiolol effectively decreased the HR in ADHF patients with rapid atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: We enrolled 23 ADHF patients with rapid AF (HR ≥120 beats·min-1 and New York Heart Association class III-IV) and systolic heart failure (SHF: n = 12) or diastolic heart failure (DHF: n = 11) who received conventional therapy with diuretics, vasodilators, and/or low-dose inotropes. They were administered continuous intravenous infusion of low-dose landiolol (1.0-2.0 µg·kg-1·min-1), and their electrocardiograms and blood pressures were monitored for 24 h thereafter. Results: Two hours after starting landiolol, the HR was reduced significantly (22%), without a reduction in blood pressure, and remained constant thereafter. The HR reduction 2 h after landiolol administration was significantly greater in the DHF group than in the SHF group. No incidence of hypotension was recorded. Conclusions: Digitalis or amiodarone is currently recommended for HR control in ADHF patients with rapid AF. Our results showed that continuous infusion of low-dose landiolol may also be useful as first-line therapy in these patients.
Prognostic Value of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging Measurements Corrected for Age and Sex in Idiopathic Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Swift Andrew J. , Rajaram Smitha , Campbell Michael J. , Hurdman Judith , Thomas Steve , Capener Dave , Elliot Charlie , Condliffe Robin , Wild Jim M. , Kiely David G.
Published: November 2013

Background—

There are limited data on the prognostic value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance measurements in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, with no studies investigating the impact of correction of cardiovascular magnetic resonance indices for age and sex on prognostic value.

Methods and Results—

Consecutive patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging at 1.5T. Steady-state free precession cardiac volumes and mass measurements were corrected for age, sex, and body surface area according to reference data and prognostic significance assessed. A total of 80 patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension were identified, and 23 patients died during the mean follow-up of 32±14 months. Corrected for age, sex, and body surface area, right ventricular end-systolic volume (
P
=0.004) strongly predicted mortality, independent of World Health Organization functional class, mean right atrial pressure, cardiac index, and mixed venous oxygen saturations.

Conclusions—

Consideration should be given to correcting cardiovascular magnetic resonance measures for age, sex, and body surface area, particularly given the changing demographics of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension. Corrected right ventricular end-systolic volume is a strong prognostic marker in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, independent of invasively derived measurements, mean right atrial pressure cardiac index, and mixed venous oxygen saturations.
Multicenter, Randomized Trial of Quantitative Pretest Probability to Reduce Unnecessary Medical Radiation Exposure in Emergency Department Patients With Chest Pain and Dyspnea
Authors: Kline Jeffrey A. , Jones Alan E. , Shapiro Nathan I. , Hernandez Jackeline , Hogg Melanie M. , Troyer Jennifer , Nelson R. Darrel
Published: November 2013

Background—

Use of pretest probability can reduce unnecessary testing. We hypothesize that quantitative pretest probability, linked to evidence-based management strategies, can reduce unnecessary radiation exposure and cost in low-risk patients with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndrome and pulmonary embolism.

Methods and Results—

This was a prospective, 4-center, randomized controlled trial of decision support effectiveness. Subjects were adults with chest pain and dyspnea, nondiagnostic ECGs, and no obvious diagnosis. The clinician provided data needed to compute pretest probabilities from a Web-based system. Clinicians randomized to the intervention group received the pretest probability estimates for both acute coronary syndrome and pulmonary embolism and suggested clinical actions designed to lower radiation exposure and cost. The control group received nothing. Patients were followed for 90 days. The primary outcome and sample size of 550 was predicated on a significant reduction in the proportion of healthy patients exposed to >5 mSv chest radiation. A total of 550 patients were randomized, and 541 had complete data. The proportion with >5 mSv to the chest and no significant cardiopulmonary diagnosis within 90 days was reduced from 33% to 25% (
P
=0.038). The intervention group had significantly lower median chest radiation exposure (0.06 versus 0.34 mSv;
P
=0.037, Mann–Whitney
U
test) and lower median costs ($934 versus $1275;
P
=0.018) for medical care. Adverse events occurred in 16% of controls and 11% in the intervention group (
P
=0.06).

Conclusions—

Provision of pretest probability and prescriptive advice reduced radiation exposure and cost of care in low-risk ambulatory patients with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome and pulmonary embolism.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01059500.
Effect of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning on Platelet Activation and Reactivity Induced by Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Stazi Alessandra , Scalone Giancarla , Laurito Marianna , Milo Maria , Pelargonio Gemma , Narducci Maria Lucia , Parrinello Rossella , Figliozzi Stefano , Bencardino Gianluigi , Perna Francesco , Lanza Gaetano A. , Crea Filippo
Published: November 2013

Background—

Radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation has been associated with some risk of thromboembolic events. Previous studies showed that preventive short episodes of forearm ischemia (remote ischemic preconditioning [IPC]) reduce exercise-induced platelet reactivity. In this study, we assessed whether remote IPC has any effect on platelet activation induced by radiofrequency ablation of atrial fibrillation.

Methods and Results—

We randomized 19 patients (age, 54.7±11 years; 17 male) undergoing radiofrequency catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation to receive remote IPC or sham intermittent forearm ischemia (control subjects) before the procedure. Blood venous samples were collected before and after remote IPC/sham ischemia, at the end of the ablation procedure, and 24 hours later. Platelet activation and reactivity were assessed by flow cytometry by measuring monocyte-platelet aggregate formation, platelet CD41 in the monocyte-platelet aggregate gate, and platelet CD41 and CD62 in the platelet gate in the absence and presence of ADP stimulation. At baseline, there were no differences between groups in platelet variables. Radiofrequency ablation induced platelet activation in both groups, which persisted after 24 hours. However, compared with control subjects, remote IPC patients showed a lower increase in all platelet variables, including monocyte-platelet aggregate formation (
P
<0.0001), CD41 in the monocyte-platelet aggregate gate (
P
=0.002), and CD41 (
P
<0.0001) and CD62 (
P
=0.002) in the platelet gate. Compared with control subjects, remote IPC was also associated with a significantly lower ADP-induced increase in all platelet markers.

Conclusions—

Our data show that remote IPC before radiofrequency catheter ablation for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation significantly reduces the increased platelet activation and reactivity associated with the procedure.
Growing Impact of Restenosis on the Surgical Treatment of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Jones Douglas W. , Schanzer Andres , Zhao Yuanyuan , MacKenzie Todd A. , Nolan Brian W. , Conte Michael S. , Goodney Philip P. ,   The Vascular Study Group of New England
Published: November 2013

Background

Patients with peripheral arterial disease often experience treatment failure from restenosis at the site of a prior peripheral endovascular intervention (
PVI
) or lower extremity bypass (
LEB
). The impact of these treatment failures on the utilization and outcomes of secondary interventions is poorly understood.

Methods and Results

In our regional vascular quality improvement collaborative, we compared 2350 patients undergoing primary infrainguinal
LEB
with 1154 patients undergoing secondary infrainguinal
LEB
(
LEB
performed after previous revascularization in the index limb) between 2003 and 2011. The proportion of patients undergoing secondary
LEB
increased by 72% during the study period (22% of all
LEBs
in 2003 to 38% in 2011,
P
<0.001). In‐hospital outcomes, such as myocardial infarction, death, and amputation, were similar between primary and secondary
LEB
groups. However, in both crude and propensity‐weighted analyses, secondary
LEB
was associated with significantly inferior 1‐year outcomes, including major adverse limb event‐free survival (composite of death, new bypass graft, surgical bypass graft revision, thrombectomy/thrombolysis, or above‐ankle amputation; Secondary LEB MALE‐free survival = 61.6% vs primary LEB MALE‐free survival = 67.5%,
P
=0.002) and reintervention or amputation‐free survival (composite of death, reintervention, or above‐ankle amputation; Secondary LEB RAO‐free survival = 58.9% vs Primary LEB RAO‐free survival 64.1%,
P
=0.003). Inferior outcomes for secondary
LEB
were observed regardless of the prior failed treatment type (
PVI
or
LEB
).

Conclusions

In an era of increasing utilization of
PVI
, a growing proportion of patients undergo
LEB
in the setting of a prior failed
PVI
or surgical bypass. When caring for patients with
peripheral arterial disease
, physicians should recognize that first treatment failure (
PVI
or
LEB
) affects the success of subsequent revascularizations.
Immanence and Infidelity: Fifteen Ways to Leave Badiou
Authors: Weiner Andrew Stefan
Published: November 2013

This essay analyzes the recent book Fifteen Ways to Leave Badiou, produced by the Egyptian curator Bassam El Baroni for the Alexandria Contemporary Arts Forum (ACAF). For the project, which was carried out in 2011, concurrent with the events of the Arab Spring, El Baroni invited a group of artists from the Middle East to produce works responding to Alain Badiou's text “Fifteen Theses on Contemporary Art”. The essay has three objectives, the first of which is to situate Fifteen Ways… relative to the ongoing encounter between contemporary global art and Western philosophy. Next, it considers how the works in the project can be said to stage an immanent critique of Badiou's aesthetic theory. Lastly, the essay examines the book within the context of the popular uprisings of 2011.
Redefinition of the millipede subgenus Megaphyllum sensu stricto Verhoeff, 1894 and neotype designation for Megaphyllum austriacum (Latzel, 1884) (Myriapoda: Diplopoda: Julida: Julidae)
Authors: LAZÁNYI ESZTER , VAGALINSKI BOYAN
Published: November 2013

Megaphyllum sensu stricto, i.e. the nominotypical subgenus of the very complicated genus Megaphyllum Verhoeff, 1894, is redefined on the basis of examination of type and non-type material and literature data. Four species-groups including twenty species in all are listed, and the identity of M. austriacum (C. L. Koch, 1838) is clarified with a proposal of neotype designation under ICZN Article 75.6. in order to stabilize the current usage of the name. Prevailing usage of M. silvaticum (Verhoeff, 1898) syn. nov. (nomen protectum) over the senior synonym M. nigrescens (Latzel, 1884) (nomen oblitum) is maintained under ICZN Article 23.9. M. banaticum (Verhoeff, 1899) is syn. nov. of M. erythronotum (Latzel, 1884) comb. nov., M. bosniense cotinophilum (Loksa, 1962) syn. nov. of M. bosniense bosniense (Verhoeff, 1897) and M. transsylvanicum transdanubicum (Loksa, 1962) syn. nov. of M. transsylvanicum transsylvanicum (Verhoeff, 1897). M. unilineatum (C. L. Koch, 1838) is new to the fauna of Turkey.
A new, prairie-restricted species of Anacampsis Curtis (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) from Illinois
Authors: HARRISON TERRY L. , BERENBAUM MAY R.
Published: November 2013

Anacampsis wikeri (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), new species, is described. The larva of A. wikeri feeds on leaves of a prairie legume, leadplant, Amorpha canescens (Fabaceae). The moth is univoltine, with mature larvae occurring in late May; adults are active from early June into summer and autumn, while overwintering throughout the winter months. The adult of A. wikeri is externally very similar to that of another legume-feeding species, Anacampsis psoraliella. Sight identification of adults of these two species, especially of unreared individuals originating in the multi-state area of the Midwest in which their respective larval hostplants are sympatric, therefore is rendered problematic. Larval host plant specificity and adult genital morphology, however, allow unequivocal diagnosis. These characters are discussed, and male and female genitalia are illustrated for both species.
Systematics, phylogeny and biology of a new genus of Lithocolletinae (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) associated with Cistaceae
Authors: DE PRINS JURATE , DAVIS DONALD R. , DE CONINCK ELIANE , SOHN JAE-CHEON , TRIBERTI PAOLO
Published: November 2013

The gracillariid genus Triberta gen. nov. (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae: Lithocolletinae Stainton, 1854) is described to accommodate two species formerly assigned to the genus Phyllonorycter Hübner, 1822: Triberta helianthemella (Herrich-Schäffer, 1861) comb. nov. and T. cistifoliella (Groschke, 1944) comb. nov. Triberta cistifoliella bona sp. is restored from synonymy based on morphological characters. The new genus is biologically associated with the plant family Cistaceae of the order Malvales and is endemic to the Palaearctics. Our molecular analysis of eleven nuclear genes failed to unambiguously place Triberta in the lithocolletine phylogeny, but revealed that this genus is distinct from either clade Phyllonorycter + Cremastobombycia and Cameraria. The distinctiveness of Triberta is also supported by inferred traits in wing venation, micro morphology of the last instar larva, pupa, genital morphology of the adult and life history. A key to the species of Triberta is provided. The interspecific homogeneity in external morphology, coupled with minor differences in genital traits, an apparent narrow specialization on Cistaceae host plants, restricted geographical range and molecular evidence based on multi-nuclear genes jointly suggest that the generic diversification of Triberta is a relatively old phenomenon and driven strongly by host selection.
Potential Vorticity Dynamics of Tropical Instability Vortices
Authors: Holmes Ryan M. , Thomas Leif N. , Thompson LuAnne , Darr David
Published: November 2013

Tropical instability vortices (TIVs) in the equatorial Pacific exhibit energetic horizontal and vertical circulation characterized by regions of high Rossby number and low Richardson number. Their strong anticyclonic vorticity and vertical shear can influence the broader-scale circulation by driving lateral mixing and vertical exchange between the ocean surface and interior. The authors use a set of nested high-resolution simulations of the equatorial Pacific, with a finest grid size of 3 km, to examine the vortex dynamics associated with TIV core water formation. TIV cores are characterized by low values of the Ertel potential vorticity (PV) as the relative vorticity is anticyclonic with magnitude comparable to the local Coriolis parameter. A study of the variation of PV and other scalars along Lagrangian fluid parcel tracks entering the TIVs shows that the low-PV water in their cores is a mix of Equatorial Undercurrent (EUC) water and North Equatorial Counter Current (NECC) water. The EUC water is characterized by strong horizontal vorticity, and thus, the baroclinic component of the PV is nonnegligible and acts as a source for the anticyclonic vorticity of TIVs. This horizontal vorticity is tilted by an ageostrophic secondary circulation associated with strain-induced frontogenesis that tends to form along the path of the EUC water that enters the vortex. Frontogenesis disrupts the cyclogeostrophic balance of the frontal flow and drives differential vertical motions across the front. These results emphasize the role of submesoscale physics in the equatorial region, which are active when both the Rossby and Richardson numbers are O(1).
Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-I Ratio and Apolipoprotein B
Authors: Schmidt Caroline , Bergström Göran
Published: November 2013

We investigated whether serum concentrations of apolipoprotein (apo) B and apoA-I and the apoB/apoA-I ratio provided predictive information on myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic stroke during 13 years of follow-up in a group of initially clinically healthy 58-year-old men, free from previous cardiovascular disease, diabetes, other established disease, or treatment with cardiovascular drugs. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the apoB/apoA-I ratio and apoB were significant and independent determinants of MI (exponentiation of the B coefficient [Exp(β)] 3.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6-6.3, P = .001, Exp(β) 2.8, 95% CI 1.1-7.7, P = .045, respectively). The area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve as a relative measure of test efficiency was highest and significant for both apoB/apoA-I ratio and apoB (area under the curve = 0.75, P < .001). In conclusion, the apoB/apoA-I ratio and apoB are independent risk factors for MI and has the highest efficiencies for predicting MI in initially healthy middle-aged men.
High impact child abuse may predict risk of elevated suicidality during antidepressant initiation
Authors: Singh Ajeet B , Bousman Chad A , Ng Chee H , Berk Michael
Published: November 2013

Background:

Concerns have emerged that initiation of an antidepressant can lead to or exacerbate suicidality. If those more at risk could be identified prior to treatment, treatment risk benefit analysis and patient risk management could be assisted.

Aims:

This study investigated the role of child abuse and ongoing emotional impact from abuse on the risk of suicidality during the first week of treatment with an antidepressant. The patient sample for this study was drawn from one site of a larger pharmacogenetic study. The hypothesis was that subjects with high impact child abuse would have greater elevation of suicidality during the first week of antidepressant treatment.

Methods:

Fifty-one subjects were initiated on either venlafaxine (VEN) or escitalopram (ESC) for major depressive disorder (MDD) and had pre-treatment suicidality assayed with the reasons for living scale (RFLS), which was repeated after one week of treatment. Several clinical, demographic and genotype variables were controlled for. The 15-item Impact of Event Scale (IES-15) was administered to subjects reporting abuse to dichotomise the abuse group into low and high (IES-15 ≥ 26) impact groups for sub-analysis as per the scales validated rating guidelines.

Results:

Subjects reporting no child abuse exposure were less likely to have increased suicidality during the first week of antidepressant treatment (7.6%) compared to subjects with low impact abuse (38.5%, p = 0.041) and high impact abuse (58.3%, p = 0.009). Only high impact abuse predicted increased suicidality after adjustment for potential confounders such as depression severity (OR = 31.5, 95% CI = 1.3 to 748.7, p = 0.03).

Conclusions:

If these findings are replicated in larger samples, child abuse history could become an important element of assessing risk benefit balance when initiating antidepressants and may help guide the level of patient review needed during antidepressant initiation.
Improvisational Practices in Elementary General Music Classrooms
Authors: Gruenhagen Lisa M. , Whitcomb Rachel
Published: November 2013

Despite historic and ongoing support for the inclusion of improvisation in the elementary general music curriculum, music educators consistently report challenges with implementation of improvisational activities in their classes. This study was designed to examine (a) the extent to which improvisational activities were occurring in the participants’ elementary general music classrooms, (b) the nature of these improvisational activities, and (c) participants’ perceptions of the quality of their students’ improvisations. The most common improvisational activities reported by these teachers were question-and-answer singing, improvising on unpitched and pitched percussion instruments, and improvising rhythmic patterns using instruments. Analysis of their reflections on these activities revealed three broad themes: (a) process, practice, and experience, (b) sequencing, scaffolding, and modeling in instruction; and (c) collaboration, reflection, and creation. These teachers stated they were most interested in the quality of the improvisational process rather than with the product and indicated that sequencing was crucial in the instruction of improvisation. While some put less importance and priority on improvisation, the majority perceived it as necessary to the development of students’ musical skills, as an important way for students to show musical understanding, and as an empowering creative process that produces independent thinkers and musicians.
Still a target: Sexual diversity and power of caring
Authors: Konishi Chiaki , Saewyc Elizabeth
Published: November 2013

This study examined the link between victimization and sexual orientation and how this link contributes to social-emotional health, extending to school-related outcomes among adolescents. Of additional interest was whether having caring adult support was a protective factor in reducing the risk for high levels of distress or enhancing positive aspects of life experiences. Participants included 27,245 students (14,114 girls) in grades 7 to 12 in Western Canada. Results of logistic regression revealed that Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual youth who had experiences of being victimized were at greatest risk for social-emotional and school-related problems, including educational aspiration and activity engagement. Our results also showed that having caring support from a parent or teacher significantly contributed to reducing the likelihood of experiencing social-emotional and educational difficulties even among victimized sexual minority students as well as heterosexual youth.
From Education and Health for All by 2000 to the Collapse of the Social Services Sector in Zimbabwe, 1980–2008
Authors: Mlambo A.S.
Published: November 2013

After having earned international accolades for its pro-people policies in the 1980s, especially in the provision of health and education services, the Zimbabwean government then presided over the progressive decay and near collapse of the very same sectors, despite continuously presenting itself as a people’s government. This article investigates the factors accounting for this decline and its impact on the Zimbabwean society.
The Elite Factor in Sub-Saharan Africa’s Development
Authors: Karinge Sarah
Published: November 2013

A plethora of strategies and initiatives have been proposed to address the development deficits in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the resulting analyses have failed to converge on the actual causes of these shortfalls and to identify optimum solutions. As a result, disparities between the rich and poor have widened. According to scholarly works on development practice, journal and newspaper articles, as well as primary sources, part of the problem lies with the elite groups that are involved in the task of spearheading development. This article discusses some elements of the classic elite theory and the structural– functional theory of stratification, and suggests that a more robust role for communication has enabled stakeholders to participate in agenda-setting for development, subsequently ushering in a new class.
Measuring complexity in neurological rehabilitation: the Oxford Case Complexity Assessment Measure (OCCAM)
Authors: Troigros Odile , Béjot Yannick , Rodriguez Patricia Marquez , Shoaib Farhat , Ellis Henrietta , Wade Derick
Published: November 2013

Objective:

To investigate validity and reliability of a new measure of case complexity, the Oxford Case Complexity Assessment Measure (OCCAM).

Design:

Data collection on inpatients and outpatients attending for rehabilitation. In subsets, repeat assessments were undertaken two weeks apart, by clinicians unaware of initial data, and on admission and on discharge from inpatient rehabilitation.

Setting:

Specialist neurological rehabilitation service.

Subjects:

Patients receiving rehabilitation after acute onset disability.

Interventions:

Assessment by clinical staff as part of routine care.

Measures:

OCCAM, the INTERMED, Rehabilitation Complexity Scale – Extended (RCS-E), clinical judgement of complexity (0–10 numerical rating scale), length of stay and discharge destination (for inpatients).

Results:

For the OCCAM, the Cronbach’s α coefficient was 0.69 and item-total correlations were moderate to high except for pathology and time. The correlation coefficients with OCCAM were: INTERMED (ρ = 0.694), RCS-E (ρ = 0.736), and team judgement (ρ = 0.796). Inter-rater agreement was excellent (Weighted κ = 0.95). Correlation between admission and discharge scores was ρ = 0.917. Test–retest agreement was good (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.86). Higher mean admission scores were associated with prolonged stays (38.6 ± 12.2 versus 32.9 ± 13.7, P = 0.04) and failure to return home (48.0 ± 13.7 versus mean 32.1 ± 10.7, P < 0.001). The optimal cut-off of OCCAM to detect patients not discharged home was ≥ 34, with corresponding sensitivity and specificity of 84.6% and 62.8%, respectively.

Conclusions:

This preliminary evidence suggests that the OCCAM may measure case complexity reliably, and may predict rehabilitation resource used and outcome. Further research is warranted.
Various complications of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for hepatic tumors: radiologic findings and technical tips
Authors: Kwon Heon-Ju , Kim Pyo Nyun , Byun Jae Ho , Kim Kyoung Won , Won Hyung Jin , Shin Yong Moon , Lee Moon-Gyu
Published: November 2013

Radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective treatment for primary and secondary liver malignancies and has a low complication rate; however, there are various radiofrequency ablation-related complications which can occur from the thorax to the pelvis. Although most of these complications are usually minor and self-limited, they may become fatal if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. It is important for radiologists performing radiofrequency ablation to have a perspective regarding the possible radiofrequency ablation-related complications and their risk factors as well as the radiologic findings for their timely detection and increase of the treatment efficacy, and thereby encouraging the use of the radiofrequency ablation technique. This article illustrates the various imaging features of common and rare radiofrequency ablation-related complications as well as offers technical tips in order to avoid these complications.
The Effect of a Hypoglycemia Treatment Protocol on Glycemic Variability in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Arnold Patrick , Paxton Renee Alexander , McNorton Kelly , Szpunar Susan , Edwin Stephanie B.
Published: November 2013

Introduction:

Hypoglycemia and glucose variability are independently associated with increased mortality in septic, surgical, and mixed intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Treatment of hypoglycemia with dextrose 50% can overcorrect blood glucose levels and increase glucose variability. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of a hypoglycemia treatment protocol focused on minimizing glucose variability in critically ill patients.

Methods:

This retrospective analysis was conducted at a 772-bed community teaching hospital in Detroit, Michigan. A standardized nursing-driven hypoglycemia treatment protocol specific to critically ill patients was implemented. Glucose variability, amount of dextrose administered, subsequent glucose monitoring, hypoglycemia recurrence, and mortality were compared between pre- and postprotocol groups.

Results:

The coefficient of variability of blood glucose in the postprotocol group (n = 53) was decreased compared with the preprotocol group (n = 52), 40.9% versus 49.3%, respectively ( P = .048). Dextrose usage was significantly reduced between groups (21.2 g preprotocol vs 11.5 g postprotocol; P < .001). The time to first blood glucose check was 36 minutes after protocol implementation compared to 61 minutes before the protocol ( P = .003). Finally, the incidence of continued hypoglycemia following dextrose administration and ICU mortality was similar between groups.

Conclusions:

Implementation of the hypoglycemia treatment protocol described led to a reduction in glucose variability, while still providing a safe and effective way to manage hypoglycemia in critically ill patients.
Internet Addiction and Its Relationship to Chronotype and Personality in a Turkish University Student Sample
Authors: Randler Christoph , Horzum Mehmet Barış , Vollmer Christian
Published: November 2013

This study sought to investigate whether Internet addiction (IA) is associated with age, gender, BIG-5 personality, and chronotype in a Turkish university student sample. Six hundred and sixteen students filled out a set of questionnaires. We here report—to our knowledge for the first time—an association between IA and chronotype. Evening types and males had higher IA scores than others. Furthermore, agreeable and conscientious students reported lower IA. No consistent relationship was observed between students’ IA scores and openness to experience, extraversion, and neuroticism. We conclude that evening types may be more prone to IA than morning-oriented persons because eveningness is related to personality styles that foster Internet addiction.
A Simulation of Rule-Breaking Behavior in Public Places
Authors: Deguchi Takuhiko
Published: November 2013

A computer simulation based on both game theory and the cellular automaton model was conducted to investigate the effects of individuals’ interactions and certain conditions on the spread of rule-breaking behavior in public places. Four decision matrices representing obedient, deviant, conforming, and contrary principles were prepared experimentally. The ratio of these principles ranged from 1:2:3:4 to 4:3:2:1 (obedient:deviant:conforming:contrary). There were a total of 24 data sets with each data set composed of 10 decision matrices. In addition to these 24 data sets, the ratio 1:1:1:1 was prepared. This data set was composed of four decision matrices. The results indicated that rule-breaking behavior spreads under the following conditions: (A) when people act according to both individual factors (e.g., their attitudes) and situational factors (e.g., their neighbors’ behavior); (B) when there are more deviant people than obedient people; (C) when the intensity of rule-breaking behavior is higher than that of rule-obeying behavior. Condition A is an important factor. If conditions B or C are satisfied, the spread of rule-breaking behavior does not occur necessarily. At a certain probability threshold, rule-breaking behavior spreads sharply when people act based on individual factors (e.g., their attitudes); the spread of such behavior cannot be attributed solely to situational factors (e.g., neighbors' behavior). There is only a fine line between rule breaking and obeying near the probability threshold.
Burnout
Authors: Dishon-Berkovits Miriam
Published: November 2013

The current research builds on conservation of resources theory as a theoretical framework to examine the relationship between work–family and the three dimensions of job burnout: emotional exhaustion, cynicism (depersonalization), and reduced personal accomplishment. A study involving 292 employed women from multiple organizations assessed cross-domain (CD) compensation—a new component of work–family enhancement (Wiese, Seiger, Schmid, & Freund, 2010)—referring to the focus of one’s attention on positive experiences in the work domain that helps to deal with negative experiences in the family domain. Key findings reveal that CD compensation acts as a resource by reducing each facet of job burnout. Work–family conflict—a demand—contributes to various dimensions of job burnout. The effects of these variables were additive rather than interactive. Theoretical implications as well as applied recommendations for employees, career consultants, and organizations are discussed.
Application of ultrasound-assisted emulsification microextraction for simultaneous determination of aminophenol isomers in human urine, hair dye, and water samples using high-performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Asghari Alireza , Fazl-Karimi Hamidreza , Barfi Behruz , Rajabi Maryam , Daneshfar Ali
Published: November 2013

Aminophenol isomers (2-, 3-, and 4-aminophenols) are typically classified as industrial pollutants with genotoxic and mutagenic effects due to their easy penetration through the skin and membranes of human, animals, and plants. In the present study, a simple and efficient ultrasound-assisted emulsification microextraction procedure coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector was developed for preconcentration and determination of these compounds in human fluid and environmental water samples. Effective parameters (such as type and volume of extraction solvent, pH and ionic strength of sample, and ultrasonication and centrifuging time) were investigated and optimized. Under optimum conditions (including sample volume: 5 mL; extraction solvent: chloroform, 80 µL; pH: 6.5; without salt addition; ultrasonication: 3.5 min; and centrifuging time: 3 min, 5000 rpm min−1), the enrichment factors and limits of detection were ranged from 42 to 51 and 0.028 to 0.112 µg mL−1, respectively. Once optimized, analytical performance of the method was studied in terms of linearity (0.085–157 µg mL−1, r2 > 0.998), accuracy (recovery = 88.6– 101.7%), and precision (repeatability: intraday precision < 3.98%, and interday precision < 5.12%). Finally, applicability of the method was evaluated by the extraction and determination of these compounds in human urine, hair dye, and real water samples.
Cytotoxicity evaluation of dentin contacting materials with dentin barrier test device using erbium-doped yttrium, aluminum, and garnet laser-treated dentin
Authors: Ülker HE , Ülker M , Botsalı MS , Dündar A , Acar H
Published: November 2013

Objectives:

The effect of dentin contacting materials on three-dimensional cultures of pulp-derived cells was evaluated in a dentin barrier test device using erbium-doped yttrium, aluminum, and garnet (Er:YAG) laser-treated dentin.

Methods:

The test materials (iBond®, G-Bond™, and Vitrebond™) were applied on laser-treated or untreated dentin discs. After 24 h of exposure with perfusion of the test chamber, cell survival was evaluated by enzyme activity and related to a nontoxic control material. The mean values of control tissues were set to represent 100% viability. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U test.

Results:

Vitrebond was the most toxic material for both laser-treated and untreated dentin. On untreated dentin, G-bond was cytotoxic to the pulp-derived cells ( p < 0.05), and iBond was similar to the negative control group ( p > 0.05). However, G-Bond and iBond were not cytotoxic when they were applied to Er:YAG laser-treated dentin ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Er:YAG laser treatment of dentin may protect the pulp cells from toxic substances of dentin contacting restorative materials; however, this effect is material related. Taking into consideration the limitations of this in vitro study, the Er:YAG laser treatment of dentin before restoration might be an option for decreasing the cytotoxic effects of the dental materials. Further research is required for clinical applications.