bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Replacement of Fast-Absorbing Biocomposite Anchors in Arthroscopic Shoulder Labral Repairs
Authors: Milewski Matthew D. , Diduch David R. , Hart Joseph M. , Tompkins Marc , Ma Shen-Ying , Gaskin Cree M.
Published: April 2012

Background: Newer generation biocomposite anchors are hypothesized to resorb more reliably and faster, while allowing for bone ingrowth and replacement.

Purpose: The purposes of this study were to (1) assess anchor resorption and bone ingrowth over time, (2) identify tunnel widening or potential reactions to the implants, (3) compare imaging findings for different sites of labral repair, and (4) determine patient subjective outcomes with the use of biocomposite anchors in glenoid labral repair.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: We enrolled 22 patients to participate in a 24-month outcomes study that included subjective and objective outcome assessments after glenoid labrum repair surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at 6 and 12 months to identify any potential reactions to implants. Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed at 12 and 24 months to determine anchor resorption and bone ingrowth. Sixteen patients and 47 anchors were available for follow-up at 24 months. An independent, fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologist read the scans. Subjective outcome scores measured at 24 months postoperatively included Simple Shoulder Test, Tegner activity scale, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder scores.

Results: No adverse events were reported with the use of biocomposite anchors at the end of the study period. At 12 and 24 months, respectively, CT scans demonstrated that an estimated 68% and 98% of combined anchor material had been absorbed, 56% and 78% of the anchor material had been replaced by soft tissue of variable density, and 9% and 20% of total anchor volume was replaced by bone. No obvious mechanical failure of the labral repairs was detected on nonarthrogram MRI. Three of the 47 anchors showed bone cyst formation. Tunnel widening (expansion beyond tunnel diameter of 3 mm; 2.9-mm drill hole utilized) was seen in 55% of the anchors but decreased between 12 and 24 months, consistent with bone replacement. Tunnel widening was seen more in anteroinferior and posterior glenoid anchor locations (84% and 57%, respectively) than in superior labral anchors (13%). Subjective outcome scores at 24 months for ASES and UCLA shoulder scores averaged 88 and 30, respectively. All but one patient were satisfied with their outcome at 24 months.

Conclusion: Our imaging evaluation indicates resorption of newer generation biocomposite anchors with progressive bone replacement at 12 and 24 months while maintaining acceptable subjective outcomes.
Anatomic Femoral Tunnel Drilling in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Tompkins Marc , Milewski Matthew D. , Brockmeier Stephen F. , Gaskin Cree M. , Hart Joseph M. , Miller Mark D.
Published: April 2012

Background: During anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, we have found that the femoral footprint can best be visualized from the anteromedial portal. Independent femoral tunnel drilling can then be performed through an accessory medial portal, medial and inferior to the standard anteromedial portal.

Purpose: To compare the accuracy of independent femoral tunnel placement relative to the ACL footprint using an accessory medial portal versus tunnel placement with a traditional transtibial technique.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Ten matched pairs of cadaveric knees were randomized such that within each pair, one knee underwent arthroscopic transtibial (TT) drilling, and the other underwent drilling through an accessory medial portal (AM). All knees underwent computed tomography (CT) both preoperatively and postoperatively with a technique optimized for ligament evaluation (80 keV with maximum mAs). Computed tomography was performed with a dual-energy scanner. Commercially available third-party software was used to fuse the preoperative and postoperative CT scans, allowing anatomic comparison of the ACL footprint to the drilled tunnel. The ACL footprint was marked in consensus by an orthopaedic surgeon and a musculoskeletal radiologist and then compared with the tunnel aperture after drilling. The percentage of tunnel aperture contained within the native footprint as well as the distance from the center of the tunnel aperture to the center of the footprint was measured.

Results: The AM technique placed 97.7% ± 5% of the tunnel within the native femoral footprint, significantly more than 61.2% ± 24% for the TT technique ( P = .001). The AM technique placed the center of the femoral tunnel 3.6 ± 1.2 mm from the center of the native footprint, significantly closer than 6.0 ± 1.9 mm for the TT technique ( P = .003).

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that use of an accessory medial portal will facilitate more accurate placement of the femoral tunnel in the native ACL femoral footprint.

Clinical Relevance: More accurate placement of the femoral tunnel in the native ACL femoral footprint should improve the ability to achieve more anatomic positioning of the ACL graft.
Increasing Early Protein Intake Is Associated With a Reduction in Insulin‐Treated Hyperglycemia in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Mahaveer Ajit , Grime Christopher , Morgan Colin
Published: April 2012

Background: Impaired early protein intake in very preterm infants contributes to early growth failure and may affect long‐term neurocognitive development. The authors have previously shown that a standardized concentrated neonatal parenteral nutrition (scNPN) formulation can improve the efficiency of early protein administration. They recognized that very early protein intake could be improved further by modifying the original scNPN regimen and starting PN within 4 hours. Aim: To demonstrate that the new scNPN regimen could improve very early protein intake in infants <29 weeks’ gestation without causing clinically important PN intolerance and complications. Methods: All eligible infants <29 weeks’ gestation, receiving the modified scNPN regimen and born between October 2009 and December 2010, were studied (group scNPN2). These were compared with previously studied infants, <29 weeks’ gestation and receiving the original scNPN regimen and born between June 2006 and December 2006 (group scNPN1). Infant details, actual nutrition intake, and metabolic/infection data were recorded. Results: Thirty‐eight infants <29 weeks’ gestation (group scNPN2) were compared with the 38 infants previously studied (group scNPN1). PN was started earlier in group scNPN2, leading to increased mean (95% confidence interval) total protein intake (first 7 days) of 15.3 (14.5–16.1) g/kg in group scNPN2 vs 11.8 (11.0–12.6) g/kg in group scNPN1. There were no differences in calorie, lipid, and carbohydrate intake. Infants receiving insulin for hyperglycemia fell from 20 (53%) in group scNPN1 to 10 (26%) in group scNPN2. Conclusion: Increasing early protein intake is associated with a reduction in insulin‐treated hyperglycemia in infants <29 weeks’ gestation.
Nutrition Intervention in the Critically Ill Cardiothoracic Patient
Authors: Cresci Gail , Hummell A. Christine , Raheem Sulieman Abdal , Cole Denise
Published: April 2012

Despite acute myocardial infarction and cardiac surgery accounting for 2 of the most common reasons patients are admitted to the intensive care unit, little attention and investigation have been directed specifically for these patients. This patient population therefore deserves special attention as they are often malnourished but require emergent interventions, making nutrition intervention challenging. This article reviews current medical interventions implemented in critically ill cardiothoracic patients and discusses evidence‐based nutrition therapy, including enteral and parenteral feeding, glycemic control, and antioxidant provision.
Protein‐Losing Enteropathy and the Fontan Operation
Authors: Johnson Jonathan N. , Driscoll David J. , O'Leary Patrick W.
Published: April 2012

Protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE) is a complex disorder characterized by enteric protein loss and often is associated with cardiovascular abnormalities, particularly those with elevated central venous pressure. The Fontan operation is a surgical procedure used to palliate patients with a functional single ventricle. Although the Fontan operation eliminates cyanosis and decreases the workload of the functionally single ventricle, it also elevates central venous pressure. This can result in hepatic and enteric congestion as well as PLE. Despite the universal elevation in central venous pressure, only a fraction of patients who have had a Fontan operation develop PLE. However, PLE is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Presenting signs and symptoms of PLE include abdominal bloating, diarrhea, edema, pleural effusions, ascites, and failure to thrive. In this review, the authors discuss the diagnosis and prevalence of PLE after the Fontan operation and review currently available therapeutic strategies.
The Uncertain Importance of Pay
Authors: Giancola Frank L.
Published: April 2012

The importance of pay to employees has been a controversial topic among compensation professionals for at least the past 40 years. It has received considerable attention from the best minds in academia and from respected HR consulting firms. In recent years, consultants’ survey research studies have contributed substantially to defining pay’s role in attracting, retaining and engaging certain employees. In some cases, their findings have contradicted the beliefs of scholars, which are rooted in the distant past. Further study is needed to establish the best method for learning how important pay is to employees and to determine the effect pay has on their motivation to work.
Endeavors in an Experimental Study on the Effectiveness of an Aftercare Program in the Netherlands
Authors: James Chrissy , Asscher Jessica J. , Dekovic Maja , Van der Laan Peter H. , Stams Geert Jan J. M.
Published: April 2012

This article addresses our endeavors and experiences conducting a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) to evaluate a promising aftercare intervention in the Netherlands. New Perspectives Aftercare Program (NPAP) is an intensive reentry program for serious juvenile and young adult offenders, aged 16 to 24, starting in the last phase of their detention or secure care and lasting for 9 months. Implementing the experimental study was a challenge, because it covered both the juvenile and adult justice system, with offenders receiving aftercare mandated under criminal and civil law, resulting in complex referral pathways complicating the system and moment of randomization. Other matters were related to resistance to random assignment and unforeseen conflicts between administrative and evaluation priorities of the different stakeholders, such as the city council and youth care organizations. Our experiences may be helpful to other researchers who encounter similar problems to fruitfully conduct experimental research in criminal justice settings.
Examining Urban Students’ Constructions of a STEM/Career Development Intervention Over Time
Authors: Blustein David L. , Barnett Michael , Mark Sheron , Depot Mark , Lovering Meghan , Lee Youjin , Hu Qin , Kim James , Backus Faedra , Dillon-Lieberman Kristin , DeBay Dennis
Published: April 2012

Using consensual qualitative research, the study examines urban high school students’ reactions to a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) enrichment/career development program, their resources and barriers, their perspectives on the impact of race and gender on their career development, and their overall views of work and their futures. The sample included nine students who participated in a semistructured interview at the end of the 2-week summer program and again 12–18 months later. The results indicate that the students continued to explore STEM fields after the summer program, reported increases in STEM knowledge, described strong identifications with their racial and gender-based identities, and identified relevant resources and barriers affecting their STEM education and career development. Suggestions for further research and program development are discussed, including the development of interventions to enhance the supportive elements of students’ relational and educational contexts.
Statistical characterization of cobalt–zinc ferrite doped with gadolinium ions
Authors: Hernández-Márquez Zaimara E , Blanco-Vicéns Nicole A , Urcia-Romero Silvana , Perales-Pérez Óscar , Cabrera-Ríos Mauricio
Published: April 2012

Development of new materials includes establishing relationships between their different components and the physical and chemical properties pertinent to a particular application. In this work, the relationship between several magnetic nanoproperties of cobalt–zinc ferrite as functions of the contents of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and gadolinium (Gd) are studied using statistically designed experiments. The results point towards the possibility of optimizing the material’s coercivity while leaving the rest of the properties statistically unaffected. This study helps to establish the material’s feasibility to be used in magneto-caloric applications.
Power-based control of an electric oil pump for an automatic-transmission-based hybrid electric vehicle
Authors: Kim Yeonho , Song Minseok , Kim Jonghyun , Lee Haksung , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: April 2012

A power-based control algorithm for an electric oil pump for a six-speed automatic-transmission-based hybrid electric vehicle was proposed. The new technology estimates the viscosity factor without having to measure the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid and controls the electric oil pump based on the required power. The viscosity factor was determined on a three-dimensional (3D) map by measuring the steady-state line pressure and the power and speed of the electric oil pump. Using the viscosity factor, the electric oil pump was controlled to supply the target line pressure according to the command power that was determined from the 3D viscosity factor–line pressure–power map. To save energy, multi-stage control was suggested which was based on low power, high power and medium power, according to the driving conditions of the vehicle. The test results showed that the proposed control method based on the electric oil pump power properly followed the target line pressure regardless of the change in the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid. In addition, when the line pressure changed owing to the additional flow rate consumption, e.g. during engine clutch engagement, the power-based control method easily followed the line pressure using only the target power, without needing to set the driving speed of the electric oil pump for each temperature. It was also found that control based on the electric oil pump power could save the driving power of the electric oil pump, unlike the situation with speed-based control, considering the product deviations.
Gas flow between coaxial tubes: Impedance to gas flow in an endotracheal tube increases with a catheter within
Authors: Magee Patrick T
Published: April 2012

The insertion of a suction catheter or a bronchoscope down an endotracheal tube increases the resistance to gas flow down the tube. The extent to which this occurs depends on the relative diameters of the endotracheal tube and the coaxially introduced catheter. This study utilises a laboratory model to quantify this effect, using a steady flow down an annulus between two tubes whose long axes lie co-axially. Two diameters of an endotracheal tube were modelled to represent flow down adult and neonatal endotracheal tubes; these were of internal diameter (do) 6.3 mm and 3.2 mm, and of length (L) 555 mm. A steady flow of air was generated to pass through the model ‘endotracheal’ tube. Flowrates were calculated to give Re of approximately 5000 for the larger endotracheal tube, and of approximately 1300 for the smaller. These values correspond to clinically appropriate flowrates in adult and neonatal patients, respectively. The pressure drop ΔPo down the endotracheal tube was measured initially without any obstruction, using a calibrated pressure transducer. Catheters of diameter (di) 0.8 mm, 1.6 mm, and 3.2 mm were introduced into the larger diameter endotracheal tube, while catheters of 0.8 mm and 1.6 mm were introduced into the smaller one, and flow was restored to its original value. The pressure drops ΔP down the endotracheal tubes were measured with the catheters introduced a length ‘x’ into the tube, to x = L/2 and to x = L. Results are compared with a theoretical calculation on the basis of laminar flow for concentric tubes. If a sampling tube or suction catheter is used down the length of an infant’s endotracheal tube, the results show that for most values of do/di, there is a significant rise in ΔP/ΔPo. Where a flexible bronchoscope is used down an endotracheal tube or a telescope down a rigid bronchoscope, the value of ΔP/ΔPo may also increase unacceptably where do/di is low. The results show that for equal do/di, and equal values of x, ΔP/ΔPo are lower for higher values of Re than for lower; and that for lower values of Re there is a more rapid increase in ΔP/ΔPo as x increases, than for higher Re, especially at low values of do/di. This result quantifiably confirms clinical experience; that care must be taken in introducing a catheter down a neonatal endotracheal tube. Deviation of these results from the theoretical calculation is less for the smaller Reynolds numbers and smaller values of do/di, because under these conditions the flow is more likely to be laminar, with a greater degree of concentricity.
Variation in the Incidence of Agitated Delirium During the Day in a Palliative Care Unit
Authors: Gonçalves Ferraz , Almeida Ana , Antunes Luís , Teixeira Sara , Pereira Sara , Edra Natércia
Published: April 2012

In the literature regarding delirium and agitation in palliative care, there are references of their worsening as the hours of the day flows from afternoon on, with an inversion of the awake–sleep cycle. We studied the frequency of the use of our protocol for the control of agitation. From June 18, 2007, to January 4, 2010, 27 (5.3%) patients from the 509 admitted were sedated intermittently 86 times, in strict compliance with the protocol, because of episodes of agitation. We verified that from 8 pm until 6 am, the number of observed cases clearly exceeds the expected cases, if the distribution was uniform. The reverse situation occurs in all other hours of the day. The chi-square goodness of fit test proves that the differences are statistically significant ( P < .001).
Antioxidant capacity and mineral contents of edible wild Australian mushrooms
Authors: Zeng X , Suwandi J , Fuller J , Doronila A , Ng K
Published: April 2012

Five selected edible wild Australian mushrooms, Morchella elata, Suillus luteus, Pleurotus eryngii, Cyttaria gunnii, and Flammulina velutipes, were evaluated for their antioxidant capacity and mineral contents. The antioxidant capacities of the methanolic extracts of the dried caps of the mushrooms were determined using a number of different chemical reactions in evaluating multi-mechanistic antioxidant activities. These included the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, ferric ion reducing antioxidant power, and ferrous ion chelating activity. Mineral contents of the dried caps of the mushrooms were also determined by inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy. The results indicated that these edible wild mushrooms have a high antioxidant capacity and all, except C. gunnii, have a high level of several essential micro-nutrients such as copper, magnesium, and zinc. It can be concluded that these edible wild mushrooms are good sources of nutritional antioxidants and a number of mineral elements.
Effects of hot air and freeze drying methods on antioxidant activity, colour and some nutritional characteristics of strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L) fruit
Authors: Orak HH , Aktas T , Yagar H , İsbilir S Selen , Ekinci N , Sahin F Hasturk
Published: April 2012

Antioxidant activity, colour and some nutritional properties of hot air and freeze-dried strawberry tree ( Arbutus unedo L.) fruits were investigated. Additionally, the effects of two pre-treatments, namely ethyl oleate and water blanching, were compared in terms of drying characteristics. For determination of antioxidant activities in ethanol extracts, two different analytical methods were used: 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity and β-carotene bleaching activity. As a result, the ethyl oleate pre-treatment shortened the drying time by hot air method and gave a higher 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging activity (82.16 ± 0.34%), total phenolic content (7.62 ± 1.09 µg GAE/g extract), ascorbic acid content (236.93 ± 20.14 mg/100 g), besides hydromethylfurfural was not observed. Freeze-dried fruits exhibited higher ascorbic acid content (368.63 ± 17.16 mg/100 g) than those fresh fruits (231.33 ± 19.51 mg/100 g) and nearly 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl activity (93.52 ± 0.41 %) to fresh fruits (94.03 ± 1.18%). Colour characteristics, sugar content and mineral contents of fruits were significantly affected by pre-treatments and drying methods ( p < 0.05). It is concluded that the drying of strawberry tree fruits should bring a valuable and attractive foodstuff to food industry due to the rich nutritional components, antioxidant activity and colour. Another conclusion from this study is that the freeze-drying is the best drying method to keep the nutritional value, antioxidant activity and sensory properties of fruits.
No Beneficial Effects of Adding Parent Training to Methylphenidate Treatment for ADHD + ODD/CD Children
Authors: Ercan Eyup Sabri , Ardic Ulku Akyol , Kutlu Ayse , Durak Sibel
Published: April 2012

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effect of methylphenidate (MPH) versus MPH + parent training in children with ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder/conduct disorder (ODD/CD) over a 12-month period. Method: After careful screening, 120 children diagnosed with ADHD + ODD/CD were included in the study. Treatment consisted of ongoing medication management for 12 months, with or without participation in a parent-training program beginning after the 1st month. Participants were not randomly assigned to treatment groups because of ethical, practical, and methodological reasons. Results: Data analyses revealed that mother–child relationship improvements and symptom severity did not benefit from parent training. Conclusion: The results of this study highlighted the positive role of MPH in ADHD. No significant effects were observed after the addition of parent training to MPH treatment. Clinicians should carefully follow patients’ improvements and titrate the MPH dosage during long-term treatment.
A National Epidemiological Study of Offending and Its Relationship With ADHD Symptoms and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Gudjonsson Gisli H. , Sigurdsson Jon Fridrik , Sigfusdottir Inga Dora , Young Susan
Published: April 2012

Objective: The objective was to disentangle the relationship between offending, ADHD, and comorbid risk factors. Method: A total of 11,388 students in further education completed a questionnaire, which measured nonviolent and violent delinquency, current ADHD symptoms, conduct disorder, substance use, association with delinquent peers, emotional lability, anger problems, violent attitudes, and low self-esteem. Results: The nonviolent and violent delinquency measures correlated significantly with all the predictor measures, with small to large effect sizes. Multiple regressions showed that after controlling for age and gender, ADHD contributed 8.2% and 8.8% to the variance in nonviolent and violent delinquency, respectively, but these effects were largely mediated by the comorbid measures, particularly substance use, association with delinquent peers, and conduct disorder. Conclusion: The relationship between ADHD symptoms and offending among young people is largely explained indirectly by comorbid factors. A key prevention is to address substance use problems and association with delinquent peers.
Consideration of Culture and Context in School-Wide Positive Behavior Support
Authors: Fallon Lindsay M. , O’Keeffe Breda V. , Sugai George
Published: April 2012

A review of the literature related to culture and student behavior reveals a number of interesting observations that are not surprising. First, culture is a difficult construct to define and has been defined variably over the years. Second, schools are becoming increasingly diverse, and evidence-based behavior management practices have been implemented with varied levels of integrity and varied outcomes. Third, students who spend more time outside the classroom because of disciplinary consequences are at increased risk for negative outcomes, such as diminished academic identity, deficient academic skills, and higher attrition. The school-wide positive behavior supports (SWPBS) framework has been implemented in numerous settings with student populations representing a variety of cultures. A literature review and concept article were developed concurrently and were found to inform each other. In this study, a review of existing literature on culturally and contextually relevant strategies for behavior management in schools was conducted. Based on this review, general recommendations are presented for practitioners, personnel preparers, policy makers, and researchers, especially, in the context of implementing SWPBS.
Taking an aesthetic risk in management education: Reflections on an artistic-aesthetic approach
Authors: Mack Kathy
Published: April 2012

This article responds to calls from the field of organizational aesthetics to study and represent sensible-aesthetic knowledge with artistic-aesthetic approaches. An artistic-aesthetic touchstone artifact engages the sensibilities of 54 MBA Organizational Behavior students as they take an aesthetic risk to enjoy exploring and re-presenting the aesthetic dimension of group organizational life. In the context of dominant business school pedagogic practices that tend to neglect aesthetics, student reflections reveal that the creative process itself is imbued with its own aesthetic value. This study contributes to artistic-aesthetic knowing at the group level of understanding. This paper also makes a contribution to the field of organizational aesthetics by extending its reach into management education practices. It is further suggested that an aesthetic inquiry into the aesthetics of management education is well worth the effort. In accordance with aesthetic criteria, this paper seeks to represent a plausible account of this management education journey.
Primary progressive multiple sclerosis developing in the context of young onset Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Sadnicka Anna , Sheerin Una-Marie , Kaplan Charles , Molloy Sophie , Muraro Paolo A
Published: April 2012

We report a patient with young onset Parkinson’s disease (PD) and a heterozygous point mutation in parkin (c.1000C>T; p.Arg334Cys). After 8 years he developed pyramidal signs and reinvestigation demonstrated MRI and laboratory findings supportive of a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) with a primary progressive (PP) clinical course. This is a previously un-described association of young onset PD with PPMS. Imaging clearly dates the occurrence of each disease as chronologically separate phenomena. There is not currently evidence for shared causation or pathogenesis between the two neurological disorders but we will follow with interest the emerging genetic characterization of parkin in both PD and MS.
Lexical access and vocabulary development in very young bilinguals
Authors: Poulin-Dubois Diane , Bialystok Ellen , Blaye Agnes , Polonia Alexandra , Yott Jessica
Published: April 2012

This study compares lexical access and expressive and receptive vocabulary development in monolingual and bilingual toddlers. More specifically, the link between vocabulary size, production of translation equivalents, and lexical access in bilingual infants was examined as well as the relationship between the Communicative Development Inventories and the Computerized Comprehension Task. Twenty-five bilingual and 18 monolingual infants aged 24 months participated in this study. The results revealed significant differences between monolingual and bilinguals’ expressive vocabulary size in L1 but similar total vocabularies. Performance on the Computerized Comprehension Task revealed no differences between the two groups on measures of both reaction time and accuracy, and a strong convergent validity of the Computerized Comprehension Task with the Communicative Development Inventories was observed for both groups. Bilinguals with a higher proportion of translation equivalents in their expressive vocabulary showed faster access to words in the Computerized Comprehension Task.
Carbon Dioxide and Volatile Organic Compounds Levels in Mosque in Hot Arid Climate
Authors: Al-Dabbous A. N. , Khan A. R. , Al-Rashidi M. S. , Awadi L.
Published: April 2012

The climatic conditions in Kuwait necessitate almost all buildings to be centrally air-conditioned with the latest HVAC system to provide the comfortable thermal environment for occupants. Mosques are used five times a day for a maximum time span of about half an hour or less for regular prayers. The study period was selected in the month of November when the ambient temperatures are moderate and cooling or heating is not required. The influence of natural draft through doors and other indoor/outdoor air exchange sites was examined for indoor air quality, degree of comfort, and different sorts of satisfaction during prayers. The indoor air quality is of major concern for mental, spiritual, and social satisfaction of the chaotic lifestyle of the present-day community. A weeklong study was conducted to measure temperature, humidity, carbon dioxide, and over 70 volatile organic compounds indoors and in the ambient air in the vicinity of the selected mosque.
Experimental study on dual-fuel compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion
Authors: Huang Zhen , Ji Libin , Han Dong , Yang Zheng , Lu Xingcai
Published: April 2012

This paper investigates the combustion and emission characteristics of dual-fuel compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion. n-heptane and oxygen-containing alcohols were chosen as the port-injection fuel and the in-cylinder direct-injection fuel, respectively. It is found that compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion with n-heptane port injection and alcohol direct injection exhibits a three-stage combustion process containing n-heptane low-temperature reactions, high-temperature reactions and alcohol combustion. The crank angle position at which 10% of the mass fraction is burned is mainly dominated by the fuel heat value per cycle of premixed fuel, and is advanced with increasing the fuel heat value per cycle of premixed fuel and premixed ratio. The crank angle position at which 50% of the mass fraction is burned shows remarkable sensitivity to the premixed ratio, and is advanced considerably as the premixed ratio and the fuel heat value per cycle of premixed fuel increase. Burn duration increases with increasing total fuel heat value per cycle and fuel heat value per cycle of directly injected fuel. The results show that compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion could successfully reach the full load of the prototype engine. The indicated thermal efficiency is very close to the prototype engine. However, their CO and hydrocarbon emissions are relatively higher. It is worth noting that compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion with alcohol direct injection can reduce nitrogen oxide and soot emissions simultaneously. Nitrogen oxide emissions can be reduced below 100 ppm, and smoke opacity is below 15% at the full-load ranges. Moreover, with increasing oxygen content of directly injected fuels, soot emission of compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion decreases. Ethanol direct injection could make compound homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion nearly smoke free at the full-load ranges.
Using obstacle detection to identify appropriate illuminances for lighting in residential roads
Authors: Fotios S , Cheal C
Published: April 2012

This paper uses data regarding detection of pavement obstacles to explore two approaches to establishing an appropriate illuminance for road lighting designed to meet the needs of pedestrians. A previous obstacle detection experiment was repeated using young observers under high pressure sodium (HPS) lighting. One approach was to identify whether there is a plateau-escarpment relationship between obstacle detection ability and illuminance – better detection with increasing light level until further increases bring little improvement: This suggested an appropriate illuminance of 5.7 lux. The second approach was to identify the size of an obstacle that a pedestrian should expect to be able to detect and the associated probability of detection: An obstacle of height 25 mm located 6 m ahead may require 1.8 lux to be detected with 95% probability.
Characterising the effective intensity of multiple-pulse flashing signal lights
Authors: Bullough JD , Skinner NP , Taranta RT
Published: April 2012

Flashing lights used in aviation signal applications can be characterised by the luminous intensity of a steady-burning signal light with the same visual effectiveness. Different formulae exist for calculating the effective intensity of flashing signal lights that use multiple brief pulses of light within each flash. The results of a laboratory study conducted to test these calculation methods revealed that a formulation based on the Blondel–Rey–Douglas effective intensity method was more predictive of judgments of overall visibility than a different formulation published in recent aviation authority guidance. A follow-up experiment yielded confirmation of these findings. Different aspects of visibility resulted in very different judgments, and the limitations of the effective intensity concept to characterise the visibility of a flashing light are also discussed.
Discomfort glare: What do we actually know?
Authors: Clear RD
Published: April 2012

Glare models were reviewed with an eye for missing conditions or inconsistencies. Ambiguities were found relating to when to use small source versus large source models and as to what constitutes a glare source in a complex scene. Also, there was surprisingly little information validating the assumed independence of the factors driving glare.

A barrier to progress in glare research is the lack of a standardized dependent measure of glare. The glare models were inverted so as to predict luminance and to compare model predictions against the 1949 Luckiesh and Guth data that form the basis of many of them. The models performed surprisingly poorly, particularly with regards to the luminance-size relationship and additivity. Evaluating glare in complex scenes may require fundamental changes to the form of the glare models.
Calculating the converted solar energy of sunlight in the LED hybrid light box lighting system
Authors: Sun W-S , Tsuei C-H , Kuo C-C
Published: April 2012

The converted solar energy of sunlight in the LED hybrid light box lighting system for indoor lighting is simulated and computed in this study. Sunlight is collected by a concentrator and split into visible and non-visible rays by a beam splitter. The visible rays pass through a light guide into a light box where they are mixed uniformly with the LED light, to provide uniform illumination. The non-visible rays are absorbed by a photovoltaic device to provide the electricity. We calculate the converted solar energy for our light box design and find that the energy saving is 2.6 times more than the power consumption of our indoor lighting.
Structuring the Calibration of Qualitative Data as Sets for Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)
Authors: Basurto Xavier , Speer Johanna
Published: April 2012

Most studies that apply qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) rely on macro-level data, but an increasing number of studies focus on units of analysis at the micro or meso level (i.e., households, firms, protected areas, communities, or local governments). For such studies, qualitative interview data are often the primary source of information. Yet, so far no procedure is available describing how to calibrate qualitative data as fuzzy sets. The authors propose a technique to do so and illustrate it using examples from a study of Guatemalan local governments. By spelling out the details of this important analytic step, the authors aim at contributing to the growing literature on best practice in QCA.
Tracking Fishing Activities of the Roviana Population in the Solomon Islands Using a Portable Global Positioning System Unit and a Heart Rate Monitor
Authors: Furusawa Takuro
Published: April 2012

In this article, I discuss the application of a portable global positioning system (GPS) receiver and a heart rate (HR) monitor for analyzing the fishing activities of the Roviana fisher-horticulturist population in the Solomon Islands. Each participant wore a portable GPS unit and a HR transmitter and recorder. Twelve trips relevant to fishing were recorded from departures to arrivals and analyzed in the context of time and space. The ratio of HR observed to the predicted maximal HR was the highest when subjects were fishing in the outer barrier reef drop edges, where they canoed continuously with little rest. The limitations of the HR monitor and/or GPS receiver were generally low for acquisition during diving activities, however, special precautions should be taken to minimize acquisition errors. This method is expected to contribute to a better understanding of human behavioral ecology and maritime anthropology.
The Feasibility of Potential NHL Markets Under the New Collective Bargaining Agreement
Authors: Poplawski Wade , O’Hara Michael
Published: April 2012

Changes in the National Hockey League (NHL) since the lost 2004-2005 season have led to speculation about the feasibility of smaller market teams under the new structure. Recently, the NHL announced the move of the Atlanta Thrashers to Winnipeg to resurrect the Jets franchise lost in 1996. But is there any evidence that small market teams can survive where they were previously unviable? The authors address this question using data for the seasons since the structural changes. The results suggest that the Winnipeg move is likely to be successful and that other small markets may be viable under the current setup.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Osmonov Damirbek , Özcan Kazım Serhan , Altay Servet , Erdinler Izzet , Yildirim Ersin , Türkkan Ceyhan , Çanga Yiğit , Alper Ahmet Taha , Çakmak Nazmiye , Gürkan Kadir
Published: April 2012

Aim: To evaluate the safety of pacemaker implantation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: We reviewed all cases admitted to our institution between January 2008 and June 2009, with symptomatic bradyarrhythmia for whom a permanent pacemaker was implanted. Beginning in June 2009, we prospectively collected data from all patients with the same diagnosis and procedure. Patients with a diagnosis of AD were included in the study. The risks and frequency of complications due to the pacemaker implantation were evaluated. Because of the older age of patients, they were divided into 2 groups to define the effect of age on complication rate. Group 1 consisted of patients aged <75 years, and group 2 consisted of those who are ≥75 years. Results: Among the 574 patients with permanent pacemaker, 20 patients (3.4%) had a diagnosis of AD. Three patients with an AD experienced a complication and all were in group 2. However, the rate of complication was not significant within groups ( P = 1.000). Reoperation was needed for all of them, and it was significantly higher in patients with AD than in patients without a concomitant disease ( P = .006). Patients in group 2 had 3 times higher rate of complication (21.4%) than those without an AD and aged ≥75 years (7.1%; P = .125). Conclusion: Pacemaker implantation may be of risk in patients with AD, especially in those aged ≥75 years.
The Influence of Alternative Scale Formats on the Generalizability of Data Obtained From Direct Behavior Rating Single-Item Scales (DBR-SIS)
Authors: Briesch Amy M. , Kilgus Stephen P. , Chafouleas Sandra M. , Riley-Tillman T. Chris , Christ Theodore J.
Published: April 2012

The current study served to extend previous research on scaling construction of Direct Behavior Rating (DBR) in order to explore the potential flexibility of DBR to fit various intervention contexts. One hundred ninety-eight undergraduate students viewed the same classroom footage but rated student behavior using one of eight randomly assigned scales (i.e., differed with regard to number of gradients, length of scale, discrete vs. continuous). Descriptively, mean ratings typically fell within the same scale gradient across conditions. Furthermore, results of generalizability analyses revealed negligible variance attributable to the facet of scale type or interaction terms involving this facet. Implications for DBR scale construction within the context of intervention-related decision making are presented and discussed.
Posterior Tibial Artery Cross-Leg Perforator Flap
Authors: Keklik Barış , Başaran Karaca , Yazar Sevgi , Meyzin Ibrahim , Güven Erdem , Kuvat Nuray , Kuvat Samet Vasfi
Published: April 2012

Lower extremity traumatic injuries with exposed vessels mandate prompt repair. Here the authors present a traumatic case in which a contralateral “septocutaneous tibialis posterior artery perforator”–based cross-leg flap was used to cover an open wound.
A Bayesian approach for unplanned sample sizes in phase II cancer clinical trials
Authors: Li Yimei , Mick Rosemarie , Heitjan Daniel F
Published: April 2012

Background Phase II cancer clinical trials commonly employ two-stage designs that incorporate a single interim analysis for lack of efficacy and are designed to achieve specified frequentist properties. The requirement to examine the outcome at a prespecified sample size (SS) can be problematic, because the attained SS often differs from the planned SS.

Purpose We propose to address unplanned SSs achieved at either stage by means of a Bayesian approach that approximately preserves the original design’s properties.

Methods Our approach translates the rejection rule of the original frequentist design into equivalent statements about the posterior distribution of the response rate and applies this Bayesian criterion to the analysis with any realized SS.

Results The results demonstrate that our approach approximately maintains operating characteristics of the original frequentist design including type I and type II error rates, probability of early termination, and expected SS under the null hypothesis.

Limitations Designs attained under this approach may not satisfy target limits for type I error rate and power.

Conclusions Our method offers a coherent analysis plan when the attained SS at either stage deviates from that specified in the original design. The price of its flexibility, in terms of erosion of the desired frequentist properties, is modest.
The Arabic version of the Parental Stressor Scale: psychometric properties and Jordanian parents’ stress during child admission to PICU
Authors: Yacoub Mohammed I. , Alkharabsheh Muna S. , Zaitoun Rasha S. Abu , Al-Atiat Ensherah K.
Published: April 2012

This paper presents an exploration of the validity and reliability of the translated Arabic version of the original English version of the Parental Stressor Scale: Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PSS: PICU) with a sample of Jordanian parents of children admitted to a paediatric intensive care unit. Three hundred and fifty parents were recruited to the study. The PSS: PICU was completed by parents within 15 minutes. Data were collected from parents ( N = 350) from different governmental, private and educational hospitals in Amman, Jordan. Subscales measuring stress from Child’s Appearance, Procedures, Sights and Sounds, Staff Communication, Staff Behavior, Parental Role, and Child’s Behavior and Emotions showed a range of responses and showed good internal consistency. Parents in this study perceived stress from various sources during their child’s hospitalisation. The dimensions ranked most stressful in the PICU were procedures (mean = 3.8, standard deviation, SD = 1.11), the child’s behaviors and emotions (mean = 3.72, SD = 1.04) and child’s appearance (mean = 3.71, SD = 0.75). The least listed stressful items were behaviors of professional staff in the unit (mean = 2.19, SD = 0.73), and staff communication in the unit (mean = 2.25, SD = 0.81). The reported elevated levels of parental stress underscores the importance of ongoing screening for factors impacting on psychological well-being and the inclusion of this information in education and counseling strategies in the inpatient settings. Consideration of areas of parent education regarding stressful ICU environment, and children’s behavioral and emotional reaction to hospitalisation could help reduce stress for Jordanian parents.
The role of MicroRNAs miR-200b and miR-200c in TLR4 signaling and NF-κB activation
Authors: Wendlandt Erik B , Graff Joel W , Gioannini Theresa L , McCaffrey Anton P , Wilson Mary E
Published: April 2012

Recognition of microbial products by members of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) family initiates intracellular signaling cascades that result in NF-κB activation and subsequent production of inflammatory cytokines. We explored the potential roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating TLR pathways. A target analysis approach to the TLR4 pathway adaptor molecules identified several putative targets of miR-200a, miR-200b and miR-200c. miRNA mimics were co-transfected with a NF-κB activity reporter plasmid into HEK293 cells stably expressing TLR4 (HEK293-TLR4). Mimics of both miR-200b and miR-200c, but not miR-200a, decreased NF-κB reporter activity in either untreated cells or in cells treated with endotoxin:MD2 as a TLR4 agonist. Transfection of HEK293-TLR4 cells with miR-200b or miR-200c significantly decreased expression of MyD88, whereas TLR4, IRAK-1 and TRAF-6 mRNAs were unaffected. When miR-200b or miR-200c mimics were transfected into the differentiated monocytic THP-1 cell line, the abundance of MyD88 transcripts, as well as LPS-induced expression of the pro-inflammatory molecules IL-6, CXCL9 and TNF-α were diminished. These data define miRNAs miR-200b and miR-200c as factors that modify the efficiency of TLR4 signaling through the MyD88-dependent pathway and can thus affect host innate defenses against microbial pathogens.