bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formal model of earthquake disaster mitigation and management system
Authors: Zafar Nazir Ahmad , Afzaal Hamra
Published: September 2017

Wireless sensor and actors networks (WSANs) have become an important research area due to its large number of applications in safety, security and mission-critical systems. Natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods have distressing effects on human lives, economy and environment particularly in the developing countries due to their high population and lack of infrastructure. Earthquake is one of the major such disasters which causes a huge loss in terms of deaths, environment damages and loss of property because of its unpredictable nature. There exists much work on earthquake prediction, disaster mitigation and management but mostly is based on simulation and testing techniques which have certain limitations. Formal methods are mathematical approaches which assure correctness of systems to overcome limitations of simulation and testing techniques. That is why a formal system of earthquake disaster mitigation and management using formal methods and WSANs is proposed. Sensors and actors are deployed in the earthquakes vulnerable areas in the form of subnets which increase energy efficiency of the network as the processing becomes localized at a subnet level. Firstly, graph theory is used to represent subnet-based model which is then transformed into a formal model. Vienna Development Method-Specification Language (VDM-SL) is used to describe and prove correctness of the formal specification. The developed specification is then validated and verified through VDM-SL Toolbox facilities by analyzing the pre/post conditions and invariants over the formal system.
Ecological risk assessment and health safety speculation during color fastness properties enhancement of natural dyed cotton through metallic mordants
Authors: Repon Md. Reazuddin , Islam M. Tauhidul , Mamun Md. Abdullah Al
Published: September 2017

Variety and durability of color are presumed as key constrains of natural dyes. So, this study attempts to investigate the effect of metallic mordants on the color fastness properties of ecologically dyed cotton fabric using banana floral stem sap. Color difference was measured in terms of hue (ΔH*), chroma (ΔL*) and value (ΔC*) difference. Metal ions in residual mordanting bath, dyeing wastewater and level of trace metals in the finished fabric surface were accessed to justify the environmental safety and speculate the health risk respectively. Pre-mordanted specimens were dyed at 100 °C for 60 min. Optical properties of extracted sap were observed by UV visible spectroscopy. Dye fixation with fiber was determined by FTIR-ATR spectra. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was employed to determine the trace metals in finished fabric. Effect of metallic mordants were calculated in terms of color fastness to wash, water, perspiration, rubbing and light for estimating the color durability. Except light fastness property almost all color fastness values were 4/5, i.e. very good. Light fastness properties were improved for mordanting action with metallic salts. The level of trace metals in finished fabric were within the safe zone.
P- and S-decomposition in anisotropic media with localized low-rank approximations
Authors: Wang Wenlong , Hua Biaolong , McMechan George A. , Duquet Bertrand
Published: September 2017

We have developed a P- and S-wave decomposition algorithm based on windowed Fourier transforms and a localized low-rank approximation with improved scalability and efficiency for anisotropic wavefields. The model and wavefield are divided into rectangular blocks that do not have to be geologically constrained; low-rank approximations and P- and S-decomposition are performed separately in each block. An overlap-add method reduces artifacts at block boundaries caused by Fourier transforms at wavefield truncations; limited communication is required between blocks. Localization allows a lower rank to be used than global low-rank approximations while maintaining the same quality of decomposition. The algorithm is scalable, making P- and S-decomposition possible in complicated 3D models. Tests with 2D and 3D synthetic data indicate good P- and S-decomposition results.
Ground Motion Intensity Measures for Rocking Building Systems
Authors: Shokrabadi Mehrdad , Burton Henry V.
Published: September 2017

This paper investigates the effectiveness of various ground motion intensity measures (IMs) in estimating the structural response of two types of rocking systems: (a) a controlled rocking steel braced frame system with self-centering action and (b) a rocking spine system for reinforced concrete infill frames. The IMs are evaluated based on the dispersion in engineering demand parameter (EDP) predictions (efficiency) and the sensitivity of the conditional distributions of EDPs to the distributions of the magnitudes, distances and spectral shape parameter (ε) of ground motion records (sufficiency). The EDPs include maximum transient and residual story drifts and peak floor accelerations. The spectral acceleration averaged over a range of periods (Sa avg) is most effective for predicting transient and residual drift demands and peak ground acceleration (PGA) is generally the best predictor of peak floor accelerations. The proximity of the frequency range most affecting an EDP to that best reflected in an IM is found to be a good indicator of the performance of that IM.
Parapets, Politics, and Making a Difference: Lessons from Christchurch
Authors: Brower Ann
Published: September 2017

At 12:51 on 22 February 2011, 12 people died beside me. The parapet and facade of an unreinforced masonry building on the main street of Christchurch, New Zealand, crushed the bus that I was riding. I'm the only one left, the lucky 13th. My leg, my hand, and my soul will never be the same. I broke more bones than the surgeons were willing to count, spent two months in the hospital, and most of a year off work. I walked, slept, and dreamed in a fog for four years. It cost half a million dollars to save my left leg. I treasure that leg, scars and all, but still feel the earthquake in every step.

In this opinion paper, I share my story—from the earthquake, to the Bright Light, to the Dark Place, to the hospital, to the Dalai Lama, to the halls of Parliament. I also share the story of a nation coming to grips with its home on the Ring of Fire. The story ends on 8 May 2016, when Parliament passed the new Building Act, complete with a ministerially titled “Brower Amendment” that halved the remediation time for unreinforced masonry parapets and other falling hazards. I conclude with the lessons I've learned on making a difference.
Phase III, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Trial of Motesanib (AMG-706) in Combination With Paclitaxel and Carboplatin in East Asian Patients With Advanced Nonsquamous Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kubota Kaoru , Yoshioka Hiroshige , Oshita Fumihiro , Hida Toyoaki , Yoh Kiyotaka , Hayashi Hidetoshi , Kato Terufumi , Kaneda Hiroyasu , Yamada Kazuhiko , Tanaka Hiroshi , Ichinose Yukito , Park Keunchil , Cho Eun Kyung , Lee Kyung-Hee , Lin Chih-Bin , Yang James Chih-Hsin , Hara Kaori , Asato Takayuki , Nakagawa Kazuhiko
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study determined whether motesanib improved progression-free survival (PFS) compared with placebo in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin (P/C) in East Asian patients with stage IV/recurrent nonsquamous non–small-cell lung cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive oral motesanib 125 mg or placebo once daily plus paclitaxel 200 mg/m2 IV and carboplatin area under the concentration-time curve 6 mg/mL ⋅ min IV for up to six 3-week cycles. Random assignment was stratified by epidermal growth factor receptor status, region, and weight loss in the 6 months before assignment. The primary end point was PFS, the key secondary end point was overall survival, and other secondary end points were objective response rate, time to tumor response, duration of response, and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Four hundred one patients were assigned to receive motesanib plus P/C (n = 197) or placebo plus P/C (n = 204). Median PFS was 6.1 v 5.6 months for motesanib versus placebo (stratified log-rank test P = .0825; stratified hazard ratio, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.64 to 1.03; P = .0820); median overall survival was not reached versus 21.6 months ( P = .5514). In secondary analyses, the objective response rate was 60.1% v 41.6% ( P < .001); median time to tumor response, 1.4 v 1.6 months, and median duration of response, 5.3 v 4.1 months. Incidence of grade ≥ 3 AEs (86.7% v 67.6%) and AEs that led to drug discontinuation (32.7% v 14.2%) were higher with motesanib than with placebo. AEs reported more frequently with motesanib were GI disorders, hypertension, and gallbladder related.

Conclusion

Motesanib plus P/C did not significantly improve PFS versus placebo plus P/C in East Asian patients with stage IV/recurrent nonsquamous non–small-cell lung cancer.
Nonoperative Management and Novel Imaging for Posterior Circumflex Humeral Artery Injury in Volleyball
Authors: van de Pol Daan , Planken R. Nils , Terpstra Aart , Pannekoek-Hekman Marja , Kuijer P. Paul F.M. , Maas Mario
Published: September 2017

We report on a 34-yr-old male elite volleyball player with symptomatic emboli in the spiking hand from a partially thrombosed aneurysm of the posterior circumflex humeral artery (PCHA) in his dominant shoulder. At initial diagnosis and follow-up, a combination of time-resolved and high-resolution steady state contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) enabled detailed visualization of: (1) emboli that were not detectable by vascular ultrasound; and (2) the PCHA aneurysm, including compression during abduction and external rotation (ABER provocation). At 15-month follow-up, including forced cessation of volleyball activities over the preceding 9 months, the PCHA aneurysm remained unchanged. Central filling defects in the palmar arch and digital arteries resolved over time and affected arterial vessel segments showed postthrombotic changes. Digital blood pressure values improved substantially and almost normalized during follow-up. In conclusion, this case report is the first to show promising results of nonoperative management for a vascular shoulder overuse injury in a professional volleyball player as an alternative to invasive therapeutic options.
The integration site of the APP transgene in the J20 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tosh Justin L. , Rickman Matthew , Rhymes Ellie , Norona Frances E. , Clayton Emma , Mucke Lennart , Isaacs Adrian M. , Fisher Elizabeth M.C. , Wiseman Frances K.
Published: September 2017

Background: Transgenic animal models are a widely used and powerful tool to investigate human disease and develop therapeutic interventions. Making a transgenic mouse involves random integration of exogenous DNA into the host genome that can have the effect of disrupting endogenous gene expression. The J20 mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a transgenic overexpresser of human APP with familial AD mutations and has been extensively utilised in preclinical studies and our aim was to determine the genomic location of the J20 transgene insertion.

Methods: We used a combination of breeding strategy and Targeted Locus Amplification with deep sequencing to identify the insertion site of the J20 transgene array. To assess RNA and protein expression of Zbtb20, we used qRT-PCR and Western Blotting.

Results: We demonstrate that the J20 transgene construct has inserted within the genetic locus of endogenous mouse gene Zbtb20 on chromosome 16 in an array, disrupting expression of mRNA from this gene in adult hippocampal tissue, while expression of Zbtb20 protein remains unchanged. We note that the endogenous mouse App gene also lies on chromosome 16, although 42 Mb from the Zbtb20 locus.

Conclusions: These data will be useful for future studies utilising this popular model of AD, particularly those investigating gene interactions between the J20 APP transgene and other genes present on Mmu16 in the mouse.
Magnitude of Potentially Inappropriate Thrombophilia Testing in the Inpatient Hospital Setting
Authors: Mou Eric , Kwang Henry , Hom Jason , Shieh Lisa , Kumar Andre , Richman Ilana , Berube Caroline
Published: September 2017

Laboratory costs of thrombophilia testing exceed an estimated $650 million (in US dollars) annually. Quantifying the prevalence and financial impact of potentially inappropriate testing in the inpatient hospital setting represents an integral component of the effort to reduce healthcare expenditures. We conducted a retrospective analysis of our electronic medical record to evaluate 2 years' worth of inpatient thrombophilia testing measured against preformulated appropriateness criteria. Cost data were obtained from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2016 Clinical Laboratory Fee Schedule. Of the 1817 orders analyzed, 777 (42.7%) were potentially inappropriate, with an associated cost of $40,422. The tests most frequently inappropriately ordered were Factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene mutation, protein C and S activity levels, antithrombin activity levels, and the lupus anticoagulant. Potentially inappropriate thrombophilia testing is common and costly. These data demonstrate a need for institution‐wide changes in order to reduce unnecessary expenditures and improve patient care.
Does Local Access to Finance Matter? Evidence from U.S. Oil and Natural Gas Shale Booms
Authors: Gilje Erik P.
Published: September 2017

I exploit exogenous changes in local credit supply from shale discoveries to identify where and when local access to finance is economically important for firms. I find that the real effects of a credit supply shock are linked to local lending market characteristics. Changes in local credit supply have significant real effects in lending markets dominated by small banks, while there is no effect in other markets. These results suggest that small banks, which do not benefit from deep internal capital markets, face economically meaningful frictions in accessing external interbank markets to fund loans. The effect in other markets, which have large multimarket banks, indicates that these markets are not as dependent on local funding sources for lending. These findings illustrate the important role that the internal capital markets of banks have on real outcomes.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2017.2818 .

This paper was accepted by Amit Seru, finance.
Generalized Conjugate Gradient Methods for ℓ1 Regularized Convex Quadratic Programming with Finite Convergence
Authors: Lu Zhaosong , Chen Xiaojun
Published: September 2017

The conjugate gradient (CG) method is an efficient iterative method for solving large-scale strongly convex quadratic programming (QP). In this paper, we propose some generalized CG (GCG) methods for solving the ℓ1-regularized (possibly not strongly) convex QP that terminate at an optimal solution in a finite number of iterations. At each iteration, our methods first identify a face of an orthant and then either perform an exact line search along the direction of the negative projected minimum-norm subgradient of the objective function or execute a CG subroutine that conducts a sequence of CG iterations until a CG iterate crosses the boundary of this face or an approximate minimizer of over this face or a subface is found. We determine which type of step should be taken by comparing the magnitude of some components of the minimum-norm subgradient of the objective function to that of its rest components. Our analysis on finite convergence of these methods makes use of an error bound result and some key properties of the aforementioned exact line search and the CG subroutine. We also show that the proposed methods are capable of finding an approximate solution of the problem by allowing some inexactness on the execution of the CG subroutine. The overall arithmetic operation cost of our GCG methods for finding an ϵ-optimal solution depends on ϵ in O(log(1/ϵ)), which is superior to the accelerated proximal gradient method (Beck and Teboulle [Beck A, Teboulle M (2009) A fast iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm for linear inverse problems. SIAM J. Imaging Sci. 2(1):183–202], Nesterov [Nesterov Yu (2013) Gradient methods for minimizing composite functions. Math. Program. 140(1):125–161]) that depends on ϵ in [Formula: see text]. In addition, our GCG methods can be extended straightforwardly to solve box-constrained convex QP with finite convergence. Numerical results demonstrate that our methods are very favorable for solving ill-conditioned problems.
Hay vs haylage
Authors: Mitchell Briony
Published: September 2017

Briony Mitchell MSc RNutr. of Practical Equine Nutrition explains the differences
Arthroscopy – a valuable diagnostic tool
Authors: Roberts Colin
Published: September 2017

Dr Colin Roberts, equine veterinary consultant, University of Cambridge, outlines the procedure and how it has evolved to be the sophisticated technique it is today
Laminitis: early warnings
Authors: Watson Rebecca
Published: September 2017

In this first, of a two part series, Rebecca Watson looks at the different causes of laminitis and the early warning signs of which owners should be aware
Atypical myopathy
Authors: Newton Richard
Published: September 2017

Dr Richard Newton Head of Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance at the Animal Health Trust discusses what we should know about this invariably fatal disease
Rumenocentesis: a useful technique for diagnosis and monitoring of rumen health in cattle
Authors: Atkinson Owen
Published: September 2017

Rumenocentesis is the collection of rumen fluid by percutaneous needle aspiration, under local anaesthetic. It can be done in any ruminant, but is usually reserved for dairy herds, where the monitoring of rumen pH and other rumen health parameters can be particularly valuable. The most easily measurable rumen fluid characteristics include pH and visual (microscopical) assessments of protozoa population. Careful animal selection and skilled interpretation of findings are necessary to reach sound conclusions.

Management decisions can be based on rumenocentesis findings alone, but preferably other herd health and performance information is used alongside rumen fluid results. Rumen fluid examination allows a more holistic approach to be taken for dairy cow nutrition, considering, as it does, the response of the rumen microbiome to the diet which is being fed.
Liver fluke infections in cattle and sheep
Authors: Forbes Andrew
Published: September 2017

The trematode, Fasciola hepatica, is a cosmopolitan parasite of temperate regions that can infect a wide variety of wild and domestic mammalian species, including man. Host-responses differ amongst different species and this article focuses on the contrast between cattle and sheep, the two classes of livestock in which fasciolosis assumes the greatest economic importance. In the sheep, acute fasciolosis resulting from parenchymal damage to the liver and haemorrhage caused by migrating juvenile flukes is a severe and potentially fatal disease. In contrast, the parenchymal stages have limited effects in cattle and the acute form of the disease is extremely rare. Though there is no evidence for a functional, acquired immune response to Fasciola hepatica, cattle provide a less hospitable environment, probably due to the profound changes in parasitised bile ducts, which render them as unsuitable habitats for feeding fluke. Consequently, in untreated cattle, many liver fluke die within 18 months of infection, though some can survive for 2 years or more. In the sheep, essentially, the fluke can live as long as the sheep; up to 11 years has been reported. These differences lead to the need for different treatment approaches in cattle and sheep with respect to juvenile fluke, but do also provide some opportunities for novel control approaches, based on the relative tolerance of cattle and their ability to limit parasitic damage to the liver parenchyma.
Abnormalities of the mare's ovaries
Authors: Trundell David
Published: September 2017

Throughout the breeding season the equine reproductive veterinarian may be faced with abnormalities of the ovary that will reduce the reproductive fitness of the mare. Having a thorough understanding of these pathologies will allow the clinician to provide prognosis and treatment plans to the owner. Important equine ovarian pathologies are reviewed, including ultrasound findings, diagnosis, treatment and effect on reproductive performance, as well as differential diagnosis. These pathologies include haemorrhagic anovulatory follicles (HAFs) and tumours of the ovary. The article will also review new diagnostic markers for certain tumours, such as anti-mullerian hormone in the diagnosis of granulosa cell tumours.
EquineReview
Authors: Rendle David
Published: September 2017

Introduction:

This edition of Equine Review considers papers on atypical myopathy, relaparotomy, recurrent uveitis, oral rifampicin and vouse blood samples.
Make your practice dementia friendly
Authors: McNamara George
Published: September 2017

General practitioners have a crucial role to play in diagnosing and managing dementia. Here, George McNamara shows how to meet the need of those patients
No laughing matter
Authors: Tisdale Richenda
Published: September 2017

The sudden death of comedian Robin Williams put depression and suicide in the spotlight earlier this year. How well does your practice manage mental health?
It's a family affair
Authors: Buxton Sarah
Published: September 2017

There is often a lot of confusion over whether employees are entitled to time off for antenatal appointments. Sarah Buxton clarifies the who, what, where and whens
Defrosting staff pay
Authors: Gransby James
Published: September 2017

James Gransby has some tips on spreading some pre-Christmas cheer
Three wise memos
Authors: Wells Sheila
Published: September 2017

Sheila Wells gift-wraps some important festive advice – especially for all practice managers
Joined-up care
Authors: Biscuit Jules
Published: September 2017

If team-based care is the most effective way to control hypertension, surely we should use this approach for all health care needs?
A warm reception
Authors: Wells Sheila
Published: September 2017

By helping the front desk to identify patients with mental health concerns, you help your patients, too. Sheila Wells explains
Life in a modern world
Authors: Barresi Ros
Published: September 2017

Ros Barresi considers how best to overcome mental health with non-invasive interventions
Bad news for night owls
Authors: Thorp Jim
Published: September 2017

With new research suggesting a lack of sleep could heighten the risk of diabetes and obesity, therapist Jim Thorp says modern lifestyles may be putting people's health at risk
Tidy desk, tidy mind
Authors: Buxton Sarah
Published: September 2017

It's so easy to overlook the basic necessities, isn't it? But make sure you don't get caught out
Handy hints
Authors: Allen Rebecca
Published: September 2017

Rebecca Allen discusses five key focus areas for easy compliance
Spinning plates
Authors: Hogg Pauline
Published: September 2017

Specialist medical accountant Pauline Hogg offers her top tips on prioritising the financials for new or hard-pressed practice managers
The perfect New Year resolution
Authors: Martin David
Published: September 2017

Succession planning – a long-term strategy and the elephant in the room
Good tidings we bring…
Authors: Baker Joy , Grech Jean
Published: September 2017

It's that time of year again so, how best to deliver – and receive with good grace the oft-dreaded gift of the annual appraisal?
Digital direction
Authors: Byrne Josie
Published: September 2017

How technology can drive effective primary healthcare
Eyes in the field
Authors: Sullivan JF
Published: September 2017

Can we deliver superior healthcare remotely with wearables and communication technology?
Destination: Low risk
Authors: Taylor Charlotte
Published: September 2017

There's been a change to the journey towards obtaining consent - and it affects GPs. Here, we map out the risks so you're not derailed
Sink or swim?
Authors: Solanki Puja
Published: September 2017

Solicitor Puja Solanki throws you a lifeline to guide you through the choppy waters of retirement planning
The ‘Sticking Plaster’ Culture
Authors: Barresi Ros
Published: September 2017

Can integrated care cure the ills of a ‘quick fix’ culture? Complementary therapist Ros Barresi considers a preventative approach
Best of both worlds
Authors: Wayte Jennifer
Published: September 2017

Jennifer Wayte, president of the Federation of Holistic Therapists and a complementary therapy practitioner and trainer, provides an introduction to massage
Food as fuel
Authors: Barresi Ros
Published: September 2017

Ros Barresi considers a balanced future for food
March on diabetes
Authors: Allton Peter
Published: September 2017

A look at a new book by podiatrist Peter Allton that aims to helps patients understand the importance of good foot health
Office workers do it best standing up
Authors: Bissett Julie
Published: September 2017

Modern living is killing us – so, it's about time we stood up for our health, writes Julie Bissett
Keeping it lean
Authors: Green Tim
Published: September 2017

Practice website specialist Tim Green offers tips on creating a website for time-poor patients
Smoke and mirrors
Authors: Sibbald Janice
Published: September 2017

Employment law adviser Janice Sibbald urges practices to clarify e-cigarette policy
A more peaceful working life
Authors: Jones-Tinsley Lisa
Published: September 2017

Lisa Jones-Tinsley used to feel stressed when life suddenly became difficult, but not anymore. She shares her experience of transactional analysis
Have you lost your inner ‘Bridget Jones’?
Authors: Heaven Pen
Published: September 2017

As a practice manager, diaries and calendars – on paper, on wall planners or online – rule your working life. But, penning your thoughts in a private diary can prove a stressbuster in a life ruled by busy appointment books
Managing change
Authors: Atkin Amanda
Published: September 2017

Amanda Atkin considers how best to avoid disharmony among your staff, confusion in your patients and chaos in the practice
Healthcare on tap?
Authors: Dillon James
Published: September 2017

Much has been made of the need to enhance access to primary care of late, not least by politicians posturing over topics such as seven-day access to GP appointments. Here, James Dillon considers better routes to access
A hub of activity
Authors: Coker Tim
Published: September 2017

Dr Tim Coker looks at a dynamic digital approach to solving the appointment crisis
Death
Authors: Kay Annabel
Published: September 2017

Annabel Kay looks at new directives that may help to lessen the pain of losing a loved one
Strictly confidential
Authors: Austen Nick
Published: September 2017

Compliance with data protection legislation needs to be a high priority for GP practices, writes legal healthcare specialist Nick Austen
A giant leap!
Authors: Biscuit Jules
Published: September 2017

Lifestyle interventions can cover a gap in healthcare but it may require a push from you to get patients over the first hurdle
Fun-filled sobriety
Authors: Ballard Jackie
Published: September 2017

Could taking a month off from alcohol lead to a turning point in the spiralling cost to our health and the NHS purse?
Beware employment law minefield
Authors: Dennett Erica
Published: September 2017

CGP practices need to have clear policies in place and must follow the correct procedures when disciplining a member of staff, writes Erica Dennett, an employment specialist at law firm Cripps.
Making wishes
Authors: Lewis Anne
Published: September 2017

The law allows us to choose who can make decisions for us if we lose the capacity to make decisions ourselves. Anne Lewis outlines the various documents your practice may come across
Get a snapshot!
Authors: Leung Steve
Published: September 2017

Facts and trends of the GP locum market
Bully tactics
Authors: Kingsley Joan , Paterson Sue
Published: September 2017

Joan Kingsley and Dr Sue Paterson investigate bullying and fear in healthcare
Are you on the ball?
Authors: Martin David
Published: September 2017

Are you sure all your staff are enrolled in a pension scheme?
Got that sinking feeling at work?
Authors: Bharwaney Geetu
Published: September 2017

You're not alone, according to experts…
Are you all working your socks off?
Authors: Biscuit Jules
Published: September 2017

The number of people working more than 48 hours a week has increased by 15% in five years, according to new analysis from the TUC
Next steps for integrated care
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: September 2017

The National Audit Office is clear that progress towards integrated health and social care has been too slow and is at significant risk. Helena Frankova examines the barriers to achieving the goal of a financially sustainable health and care system by 2020
Gender identity services: Are you doing enough?
Authors: Hancock Dave
Published: September 2017

There is a requirement for all general practice staff who deal with patients, whether in face-to-face or administrative roles, to have an understanding of issues of concern to transgender patients. Dave Hancock examines what those responsibilities involve
Decision support technology
Authors: Bonis Peter AL
Published: September 2017

What is the best way to help GPs in today's highly challenging environment? Technology may provide an answer in the form of clinical decision support, says Peter AL Bonis
The national flu vaccination plan
Authors: Cornforth Amber
Published: September 2017

There can be a tendency to underestimate the impact of influenza, although it needs to be recognised as one of the biggest winter pressures in the NHS, says Amber Cornforth
The practice manager guide to accounts. Part 2: Expenditure
Authors: Lowe Hilary
Published: September 2017

In the second of a two-part guide, Hilary Lowe explains the different types of outgoings for GP practices and how to keep control of costs
General practice and the health economy
Authors: McKenzie Scott
Published: September 2017

Clinical commissioning groups are an easy target for criticism, but not all of it is justified, says Scott McKenzie of BW Medical Accountants
Coaching to improve attainment
Authors: Burnage Steve
Published: September 2017

In a new regular series, Steve Burnage talks us through CPD ideas that can be adapted for your school. He will offer a template for a 45-minute workshop, with free handouts and slides available on our website. His first article looks at running a workshop focused on coaching
Making time to stop self-harm
Authors: Sullivan Karen
Published: September 2017

Self-harm among young people is on the rise, with potentially devastating consequences. Karen Sullivan looks at the statistics and suggests what role schools can play to tackle this danger
Tackling challenging behaviour
Authors: Stanley Julian
Published: September 2017

Challenging behaviour is one of the most difficult problems that teachers can face. Julian Stanley offers some practical advice and support
Start as you mean to go on…
Authors: Trafford Bernard
Published: September 2017

As the new academic year begins, what priorities should school leaders focus on in the coming weeks? Experienced former headteacher Dr Bernard Trafford advises
Rubén Darío y su homenaje a Paul Verlaine
Authors: Fernández Teodosio
Published: September 2017

Al morir Paul Verlaine, a principios de 1896, Rubén Darío escribió el famoso “Responso” incluido después en su libro Prosas profanas y otros poemas. Con la intención de expresar sus deseos de paz para el cuerpo y el espíritu del admirado poeta fallecido, Darío elaboró una de sus creaciones más complejas, conjugando las referencias a la cultura grecolatina con las imágenes en las que él mismo había plasmado su visión de los escritores y artistas decadentes o malditos, los “raros” que por entonces ejercían sobre él una atracción irresistible y atormentada a la vez.
Écfrasis de ida y vuelta: monólogo dramático y culturalismo en «Trébol», de Rubén Darío
Authors: Jacobo Egea Alejandro
Published: September 2017

De los numerosos homenajes que Rubén Darío compuso a lo largo de su trayectoria poética, uno de los que más subversivamente ha sido tratado por la crítica es «Trébol», palabra en la que aparecen agrupados tres sonetos donde el poeta nicaragüense realizó su particular veneración a las figuras de Velázquez y Góngora. En este trabajo se lleva a cabo un estudio sobre la técnica y el procedimiento de composición poética utilizada en estos textos, así como su análisis estilístico, para finalizar con el replanteamiento de una cuestión polémica: el posible gongorismo de Rubén Darío en dichos sonetos.
El «Poema del otoño», de Rubén Darío, consolación de la poesía
Authors: López Alfonso Francisco José
Published: September 2017

El trabajo insiste en el carácter fundacional de la obra de Darío en la poesía hispana debido, entre otras razones, a su poética especialmente dialogante. Poesía humanamente docta y erudita, el «Poema del otoño» pretende otorgar consuelo ante la idea de la muerte. En un contexto secularizado, Darío busca dar cuerpo a un nuevo absoluto, un arte que venza tiempo y espacio. La consolatio asume el tópico del carpe diem, pues el goce de la carne, como la contemplación de la belleza del mundo, como el placer del canto, no solo son experiencias sensibles, sino también simbólicas, que permiten intuir o recordar el orden íntegro y armónico del universo.
«La larva»: una incursión dariana en el cuento sobrenatural
Authors: Riesgo Ferran
Published: September 2017

«La larva» es uno de los cuentos de Rubén Darío que suele clasificarse como fantástico. Aunque poco estudiado, este relato breve condensa diversas tradiciones literarias, referencias mitológicas, material autobiográfico y algunos de los rasgos más señalados de la escritura del poeta. El trabajo propone un recorrido por las fuentes textuales y temáticas que nutren al texto, así como un análisis actualizado a partir de su condición de «cuento sobrenatural», confrontándolo al mismo tiempo con otros ejemplos parejos de la prosa de Darío. La revisión del relato destaca aspectos que a menudo han quedado en penumbra, y expone un nivel de complejidad que habitualmente se escamotea a los relatos de este tenor.
La «Epístola a la señora de Leopoldo Lugones» de Rubén Darío, desmitificación poética del Modernismo
Authors: Ruiz Barrionuevo Carmen
Published: September 2017

La «Epístola A la señora de Leopoldo Lugones», que aparece incluida en El canto errante (1907), es una obra que evidencia la maestría poética de Rubén Darío. Distribuida en siete apartados no puede entenderse sin el contexto biográfico del autor y su necesidad de realizar unas confidencias irónicas acerca de su propia vida inserta en el proceso de modernización del siglo XX. Por ello se propone un análisis de sus apartados y su disposición atendiendo a desvelar todas las referencias geográficas y vitales que recorren dos continentes para recalar en la isla de Mallorca. Se atiende también a la estructura métrica del poema que parte de la utilización del verso alejandrino para convertirlo en vehículo de una poesía dialogante y conversacional que sin duda representa una transición hacia la poesía posterior.
A novel heterozygous mutation in POU1F1 is associated with combined pituitary hormone deficiency
Authors: Gavrilova Anna E. , Nagaeva Elena V. , Rebrova Olga Y. , Shiryaeva Tatiana Y. , Tiulpakov Anatoly N. , Peterkova Valentina A.
Published: September 2017

Mutations in the POU1F1 gene (OMIM#613038) are a rare case of combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD), which is characterized by deficiency of growth hormone, TSH, and prolactin. Brain mri reveals hypoplasia of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. The prevalence of this disease has not been fully studied, but it is reported that the incidence of mutations in the POU1F1 gene in patients with CPHD from nonrelated marriages is 3—7%, reaching 25—52% among familial cases. Both the autosomal dominant and the autosomal recessive inheritance patterns are possible. More than 30 mutations in POU1F1 have been described in patients with CPHD. One child in the family had a pronounced delay in physical and psychomotor development, characteristic signs of dysmorphogenesis, an extremely low IGF-1 level, low levels of ft4 and prolactin, and a normal cortisol level. Molecular genetic testing revealed a heterozygous mutation c.500a> g: p.q167r in the POU1F1 gene. This mutation has never been previously described. The patient showed a good response to the recombinant GH (rhGH) therapy.
Hypopituitarism due to mutation in the PROP1 gene in association with the 47,XYY karyotype and autosomal dominant atrioventricular septal defect: two case reports
Authors: Gubaeva Dilyara N. , Orlova Elizaveta M. , Pankratova Maria S. , Vorontsov Alexander V. , Kareva Maria А.
Published: September 2017

Application of genetic analysis in clinical practice enables identifying a combination of two rare diseases in one patient. We report two cases of patients with hypopituitarism due to PROP1 gene mutations in combination with the 47,XYY karyotype (case 1) and autosomal dominant partial atrioventricular septal defect (case 2). These clinical cases clearly demonstrate that several rare diseases can be present in one patient. The morphology of the pituitary gland has specific features in patients with a PROP1 gene mutation: signal inversion on T1- and T2-weighted images, as well as changes in size of the pituitary gland over time. In case of short stature, the hormonal evidence of secondary hypopituitarism, low IGF-1 levels, and specific morphological features observed in MRI images, we recommended carrying out molecular genetic analysis of the PROP1 gene without conducting growth hormone stimulation test.
Insulin autoimmune syndrome: a rare cause of hypoglycemia. The case report of the syndrome in pediatric practice
Authors: Kuznetsova Elena S. , Pilipenko Oxana V. , Melikyan Maria А.
Published: September 2017

Insulin autoimmune syndrome (IAS) is characterized by spontaneous hypoglycemia accompanied by an increased insulin level and presence of insulin autoantibodies while no exogenous insulin was used. This disorder is the third leading cause of hypoglycemia in Southeastern Asia. The disorder develops in individuals with a genetic predisposition, mostly after they had administered drugs containing a sulfhydryl moiety, such as methimazole, penicillin g, etc. The syndrome is typical of adults and extremely rare among children. We report the case of developing IAS in a 3.5-year-old Caucasian girl, possibly induced by pyritinol therapy.
Iznik or Paris? Imitations of Ottoman Pottery in the Collection of the West Bohemian Museum in Pilsen
Authors: Mleziva Jindřich
Published: September 2017

The article focuses on imitations of Asian craftsmanship, manufactured during the 19th century and found in the West Bohemian Museum in Pilsen collection. The collection was created at the end of the 19th century. During that period the museum acquired both original Asian products and products manufactured in Europe under the influence of Asian art. In some cases, however, it happened that objects acquired for the collection a hundred years previously were later thought to be Asian originals. The Pilsen ewer is described in accounts records as a teapot made according to a Persian model. Although in the past it was confused with original work, today objects like this are an indication of the influence that Ottoman ceramics had not only on ceramics production in the second half of the 19th century Europe, and a reflection of the interest in and considerable popularity of Middle Eastern and Oriental arts and crafts in Europe.
“Father and Mother”: Tantric Couples in the Collection of the Náprstek Museum and the History of the Collection Description
Authors: Heroldová Helena
Published: September 2017

The first part of the study is devoted to the history of scholarly description of the Tibetan and Mongolian Collection in the Naprstek Museum, namely to the work of Lumir Jisl (1921-1969). The second part focuses on the iconography of Tantric couples on small votive Buddhist paintings from Mongolia.
Does the foveal shape influence the image formation in human eyes?
Authors: Frey Katharina , Zimmerling Beatrice , Scheibe Patrick , Rauscher Franziska G. , Reichenbach Andreas , Francke Mike , Brunner Robert
Published: September 2017

In human eyes, the maximum visual acuity correlates locally with the fovea, a shallow depression in the retina. Previous examinations have been reduced to simple geometrical fovea models derived from postmortem preparations and considering only a few superficial ray propagation aspects. In the current study, an extended and realistic analysis of ray-optical simulations for a comprehensive anatomical realistic eye model for the anterior part and realistic aspherical human foveal topographical profiles deduced from in vivo optical coherence tomography (OCT) are presented, and the refractive index step at the transition from vitreous to retinal tissue is taken into account. The optical effect of a commonly shaped (averaged) and an extraordinarily shaped foveal pit were both compared to the analysis of an assumed pure spherical boundary layer. The influence of the aperture size, wavelength, and incident angle on the spot size and shape, as well as the axial focal and lateral centroid position is investigated, and a lateral displacement of about 2 μm and an axial shift of the best focal position of less than 4 μm are found. These findings indicate only small optical effects that are laterally in the range of inter-receptor distances and axially less than the photoreceptor outer segment dimension.
The Soul and Personal Identity in Early Stoicism: Two Theories?
Authors: Celkyte Aiste
Published: September 2017

This paper is dedicated to exploring the alleged difference between Cleanthes’ and Chrysippus’ accounts of the post-mortal survival of the souls and the conceptions of personal identity that these accounts underpin. I argue that while Cleanthes conceptualised the personal identity as grounded in the rational soul, Chrysippus conceptualised it as the being an embodied rational soul. I also suggest that this difference between the two early Stoics might have been due to his metaphysical commitments arising from his response to the Growing Argument put forth by the Academics rather than the critique of his teacher.
Addendum to Finite decomposition complexity and the integral Novikov conjecture for higher algebraic K-theory
(J. reine angew. Math. 694 (2014), 129–178)
Authors: Ramras Daniel A. , Tessera Romain , Yu Guoliang
Published: September 2017

We supply an argument that was missing from the proof of the main result of the article “Finite decomposition complexity and the integral Novikov conjecture for higher algebraic K-theory” [7]. The argument is essentially formal, and does not affect the strategy of the proof.
Wear-dependent specific coefficients in a mechanistic model for turning of nickel-based superalloy with ceramic tools
Authors: López de Lacalle Luis Norberto , Urbicain Pelayo Gorka , Fernández-Valdivielso Asier , Alvarez Alvaro , González Haizea
Published: September 2017

Difficult to cut materials such as nickel and titanium alloys are used in the aeronautical industry, the former alloys due to its heat-resistant behavior and the latter for the low weight - high strength ratio. Ceramic tools made out alumina with reinforce SiC whiskers are a choice in turning for roughing and semifinishing workpiece stages. Wear rate is high in the machining of these alloys, and consequently cutting forces tends to increase along one operation.

This paper establishes the cutting force relation between work-piece and tool in the turning of such difficult-to-cut alloys by means of a mechanistic cutting force model that considers the tool wear effect. The cutting force model demonstrates the force sensitivity to the cutting engagement parameters (ap, f) when using ceramic inserts and wear is considered.

Wear is introduced through a cutting time factor, being useful in real conditions taking into account that wear quickly appears in alloys machining. A good accuracy in the cutting force model coefficients is the key issue for an accurate prediction of turning forces, which could be used as criteria for tool replacement or as input for chatter or other models.
海峡两岸立法语言中 “的” 字句式与 “者” 字句式对比研究
Authors: 玉华 邹
Published: September 2017

海峡两岸立法语言都常用列举式，大陆《刑法》最常用且典型的列举式是“的” 字句式，台湾地区《刑法》最常用且典型的列举式是 “者” 字句式。大陆《刑法》“的” 字句式的列举项是 “的” 字结构，台湾地区《刑法》“者” 字句式的列举项是 “者” 字结构。“的” 字句式脱胎于 “者” 字句式。立法语言中的 “者” 字句式来自黄遵宪对日本《旧刑法》的翻译。
Optimization and Kinetics Evaluation of Bachmann Process for RDX Synthesis
Authors: Jadhav Pandurang M. , Prasanth Hima , Pandey Raj K. , Shinde Ujwala R. , Desai Shashikant A.
Published: September 2017

1,3,5-Trinitro-1,3,5-triazacyclohexane (RDX) is one of the high explosives extensively used for various military and civil applications. RDX is predominantly used in warheads, the most advanced solid propellants for guns and rockets and in plastic bonded explosives for improving performance characteristics. Thus the increasing demand of RDX necessitates study on reaction engineering and reactor stability in view of enhancement of safety as well as productivity. In present study, Bachmann process has been studied in detail for understanding role of reagents, time and temperature on reaction yield. Reaction rates of RDX and side products have been evaluated at various temperatures using continuous flow technique. Second order reaction was found sensitive towards temperature and concentrations of nitric acid and acetic anhydride. Higher magnitude of activation energy was evaluated for side products (25.2 kcal/mol) than RDX (18.71 kcal/mol). Optimum temperature of reaction has been obtained on profiling its progression at various reaction rates and temperature. Further, reactor stability analysis has been carried out to identify the safe operation conditions for this highly exothermic reaction. Effect of coolant flow rate and temperature as well as feed temperature has been analyzed on heat removal rate to obtain the safe regime of reaction. The information related to maximization of RDX formation and safe design of continuous process has been presented in manuscript.
Online Teaching Efficacy: A Product of Professional Development and Ongoing Support
Authors: Richter Sally , Idleman Lynda
Published: September 2017

The purpose of the pilot study was to investigate the perceptions of online teaching efficacy of nursing faculty who teach courses in which 51% or more of the content is offered online. Bandura’s psychological construct of self-efficacy served as the conceptual framework. The research survey was administered to nursing faculty in a state university system located in the southeastern United States of America, plus two private universities. The Michigan Nurse Educator’s Sense of Efficacy for Online Teaching Scale, which contains 32 items that measure how nurse educators judge their current capabilities for teaching online nursing courses, was used to gather data. Overall, the scores reflected that faculty perceived themselves as quite a bit efficacious on a scale that ranged from 1 to 9. As nursing educators received more support in designing and implementing online courses, their efficacy increased. It is critical that faculty are supported on an ongoing basis to increase and develop online teaching skills in order to teach high-quality courses in online programs. Faculty members must also be recognized for their work, time, and commitment required to be effective online educators. The findings of this study revealed those participants who had a number of professional development supports and release time to develop online courses have a greater sense of efficacy.