bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future of the book and library creatively explored
Authors: Smith Charlie
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to contribute to discussion about the changing role of libraries and their collections, through discussing projects designed by architecture students.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper reflects on design projects produced by final-year students studying for an undergraduate degree in architecture. A project was set for a group of students to design a “Book Repository”. Each researched their own interpretation of what this might be, given contemporary issues such as increasing digitisation, falling numbers of library visitors, changing users’ needs and what they interpret as a future for books. This paper reviews a selection of the projects in the context of contemporary research, and discusses the book as a physical object, contemporary library design and the role of libraries as civic buildings.

Findings

– Despite being designed by digitally literate students, physical books are highly significant in every project; however, the cultural significance of the books is more important than the objects themselves. Also, the provision of spaces for the act of reading is notably absent. The relationship between the library and its context was a key theme for several projects, which explore innovative means through which to engage the public.

Originality/value

– Collectively these projects contribute to debate over the role of books and libraries in contemporary culture through the eyes of young designers. The paper will be of interest to those involved in the procurement and design of libraries.
Collections, selection, access
Authors: Soules Aline
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to review current strategies in collections, selection and the access libraries provide, to present scenarios that illustrate the roles libraries are beginning to play and to discuss viable strategies for libraries in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

– An extensive review of the literature was conducted to identify current strategies in collections and selection, and to explore innovations in access strategies that reveal future directions.

Findings

– Librarians are redefining collections and selection, implementing new strategies to provide information that is more relevant to today’s needs, focusing more intently on niche collections and experimenting in access strategies to market information and increase use.

Practical implications

– Libraries’ survival depends on re-thinking the philosophy and approach to collections, selection and access.

Social implications

– Libraries need this shift in thinking and approach to find their place in the new information world.

Originality/value

– The paper provides an overview of current thinking in collections, selection and access, prompts thought about new directions in this area and provides a forum for discussion.
Space development
Authors: L. H. Chan Diana , Spodick Edward
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this case study is to describe the space transformation of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Library (HKUST Library) into a learning commons and how learning activities have been substantially multiplied by engaging academic and supporting units. This experience is used to posit a number of anticipated directions for library space planning.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper focuses on the design elements of the learning commons and how these elements have created an effective platform for a variety of learning activities. It outlines an assessment study on how students liked the transformed space and viewed its added values.

Findings

– In the digital era, academic libraries can be transformed for new, effective and collaborative use. By integrating technology and flexible design, the new space excites existing scholars and attracts a broad range of new users. Students, faculty and administrators react positively to the new space, as it offers effective learning ambience. By engaging and co-creating with university partners, the new space functions as an active facilitator of learning – a hub that supports interaction and an effective platform to support pedagogy towards team projects, multimedia work and whole-person development. Future library spaces need to exhibit characteristics tailored to various user groups and their specific usage needs.

Originality/value

– The experience of the HKUST library will have broader implications for other academic libraries embracing their mission-critical nature and assets. It shows that libraries can embrace challenges in the digital and virtual world by creative and innovative use of their physical space.
Economic impact of the proposed Bangladesh–India FTA: potentials and realities
Authors: Kim Chanwahn , Masudur Rahman Mohammad , Arjuman Ara Laila
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential economic effects of the proposed Bangladesh-India free trade agreement (FTA).

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors have used the computable general equilibrium (CGE) analysis of Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) database. The analysis highlights the possible costs and benefits of the two nations within three different scenarios. Under Scenario I all bilateral import tariffs between Bangladesh and India are removed; Scenario II represents the setting where Bangladesh cuts its all tariffs by 75 and in Scenario III Bangladesh cuts tariffs by 50 percent. India cuts all their tariffs by 100 percent in all three scenarios.

Findings

– The findings indicate that India may gain more in terms of welfare and real GDP via the improved terms of trade while Bangladesh is going to have welfare loss, but if Bangladesh is able to make a preferential FTA like Scenario III with India its welfare, real GDP and exports will be increased substantially.

Originality/value

– This paper is the first-ever attempt to estimate the effect of the proposed Bangladesh-India FTA using CGE analysis of GTAP database version 7.
Volatility and cross correlations of stock markets in SAARC nations
Authors: Singhania Monica , Prakash Shachi
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine cross-correlation in stock returns of SAARC countries, conditional and unconditional volatility of stock markets and to test efficient market hypothesis (EMH).

Design/methodology/approach

– Stock indices of India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan are considered to serve as proxy for stock markets in SAARC countries. Data consist of daily closing price of stock indices from 2000 to 2011. Since preliminary testing indicated presence of serial autocorrelation and volatility clustering, family of GARCH models is selected.

Findings

– Results indicate presence of serial autocorrelation in stock market returns, implying dependence of current stock prices on stock prices of previous times and leads to rejection of EMH. Significant relationship between stock market returns and unconditional volatility indicates investors’ expectation of extra risk premium for exposing their portfolios to unexpected variations in stock markets. Cross-correlation revealed level of integration of South Asian economies with global market to be high.

Research limitations/implications

– Business cycles and other macroeconomic developments affect most companies and lead to unexplained relationships. The paper finds stock markets to exist at different levels of development as economic liberalization started at different points of time in SAARC countries.

Practical implications

– Correlation between stock indices of SAARC economies are found to be low which is in line with intra-regional trade being one of lowest as compared to other regional groups. Results point towards greater need for economic cooperation and integration between SAARC countries. Greater financial integration leads to development of markets and institutions, effective price discovery, higher savings and greater economic progress.

Originality/value

– The paper focuses on EMH and risk return relation for SAARC nations.
Night life in southern urbanMali: being aMuslimmaquisardin Bougouni
Authors: Chappatte André
Published: July 2014

Alcohol has been part of local culture in southwestMali since precolonial times. In the last century, whenIslam spread into the region, it became a‘haram’(forbidden) substance; therefore its consumption moved to the margins of society. Based on an ethnography of night life in discreet bars called‘maquis’where power, wealth, and alcohol become juxtaposed during the night in the small town of Bougouni, this article explores howMuslims handle their participation in forbidden activities fromwithina localMuslim community. Analysing the social significance of the darkness of the night in relation to a publicIslam based on sight, it illustrates how forbidden activities are handled through strategies of diurnal conformity and nocturnal discretion in urbanMali. Exploring the fact that aMuslim can at the same time be known as a respectable member of the local community and a suspected drinker during the night, this analysis aims to demonstrate that the interplay between display and secrecy is an important component of morality in urbanMali, while the wealth and power ofmͻgͻbaw(big men) often work as veils that cover their forbidden activities. Besides studying the waysMuslims strive to be pious, this article finally stresses the need to explore also the field ofharamas an integral part of aMuslim life so as to develop a humanly wider and more complete understanding ofIslam's relationship to contemporaryMuslim societies.
Death Due to Complications of Anhidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia
Authors: Ogden Emily , Schandl Cynthia , Tormos Lee Marie
Published: July 2014

Ectodermal dysplasia comprises a group of disorders affecting ectodermal tissues. Severity depends on the genetic aberration; hyperpyrexia secondary to absence of sweat glands is a common complication. Treatment is supportive. This case report describes a 1‐month, 27‐day‐old male infant with a diagnosis of X‐linked recessive anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. On the day of his death, his mother swaddled him in a blanket and placed him on the couch at 5:30 am. When she picked him up at 8:00 am, he was unresponsive. At the emergency department, his rectal temperature was 40°C. Postmortem blood culture was positive for group B streptococcus, a possible etiology for fever. It is vital to teach parents that close monitoring of children with ectodermal dysplasia is necessary, as an increase in body temperature can become life threatening.
Application of Kinect Gaming Sensor in Forensic Science
Authors: González‐Jorge Higinio , Zancajo Sandra , González‐Aguilera Diego , Arias Pedro
Published: July 2014

Kinect sensor appears as a low‐cost option for 3D modeling. This manuscript describes a methodology to test the applicability of Kinect to crime scenes. The methodology includes the comparison versus well‐established scanners (Faro and Trimble). The parameters used for the comparison are the quality in the fitting of primitives, a qualitative evaluation of facial data, the data quality for different ranges, and the accuracy in the measurement of different lengths. The results show that the Kinect noise level increases with range, from 5 mm at 1.5 m range to 15 mm at 3 m range. It is considered that for detail measurements the sensor must be placed close to the target. A general measurement of a sample crime scene was analyzed. Errors in length measurements are between 2% and 10% for 3 m range. The measurement range must be limited to c. 3 m.
Effect of surface stiffness on the neural control of stretch‐shortening cycle movements
Authors: Márquez G. , Morenilla L. , Taube W. , Fernández‐del‐Olmo M.
Published: July 2014

Aim

It is accepted that leg stiffness (Kleg) increases when surface stiffness decreases, and vice versa. However, little is known how the central nervous system fulfils this task. To understand the effect of surface stiffness on the neural control of stretch‐shortening cycle movements, this study aimed to compare modulation of spinal and corticospinal excitability at distinct phases after ground contact during two‐legged hopping when changing from solid to elastic ground.

Methods

Motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and H‐reflexes were elicited at the time of the short (SLR)‐, medium (MLR)‐ and long (LLR)‐latency responses of the soleus muscle (SOL) during two‐legged hopping on different stiffness surfaces, elastic and stiff.

Results

Soleus H‐reflexes during two‐legged hopping on the elastic surface were lower at SLR and larger at LLR than on the stiff surface (P < 0.05 for both comparisons). SOL MEP size was higher at the time of SLR during hopping on the elastic surface than on the stiff surface (P < 0.05) although the background EMG was similar.

Conclusion

It is argued that this phase‐specific adaptation in spinal reflex excitability is functionally relevant to adjust leg stiffness to optimally exploit the properties of the elastic surface. Thus, the increased corticospinal excitability on the elastic surface may reflect a more supraspinal control of the ankle muscles to compensate the decrease in reflexive stiffness at the beginning of touchdown and/or counteract the higher postural challenges associated with the elastic surface.
Characterisation and application of polyurethane copolymers grafted with photoluminescent dyes
Authors: Chung Yong Chan , Yang Kiseok , Choi Jae Won , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: July 2014

Photoluminescent dyes (aminofluorene, naphthalimide, naphtholbenzein, or phenosafranine) were grafted to polyurethane using an allophanate linkage. The photoluminescence properties and the shape recovery effects of polyurethane samples were investigated. The polyurethane was composed of 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenylisocyanate), poly(tetramethyleneglycol), and 1,4‐butanediol. The dyes were linked through an extra 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenylisocyanate) and the carbamate moiety of the polyurethane chains. Polyurethanes with various dye contents were characterised, and the shape recovery and photoluminescence properties were compared. In the case of the tensile mechanical properties, the highest maximum stress was 56 MPa, and the strain remained > 1500% for the entire series. The shape recovery improved as the test cycle was repeated, with up to 100% recovery being achieved, but shape retention decreased as the dye content increased. Finally, the photoluminescence of the polyurethanes was demonstrated by a luminescent light‐emission test, together with pH indication capability and the preparation of non‐woven fibre using the electrospinning method.
Palmoplantare Psoriasis im Erwerbsleben: Eine Fallserie aus der Praxis unter Berücksichtigung der S1‐Leitlinie zur berufsdermatologischen Begutachtung von Psoriasis
Authors: Angelovska Irena , Mahler Vera
Published: July 2014

Hintergrund

Anlagebedingte Erkrankungen stellen bei der berufsdermatologischen Begutachtung eine besondere Herausforderung dar. Es muss dabei exakt differenziert werden, ob die berufliche Tätigkeit in einem ursächlichen Zusammenhang steht oder ob der Spontanverlauf der Erkrankung im Vordergrund steht. In einer kürzlich erschienen S1‐Leitlinie wurden Begutachtungsempfehlungen zur Beurteilung von Psoriasis im Erwerbsleben konsentiert, die in der vorliegenden Arbeit an Gutachtenfällen aus der klinischen Praxis verdeutlicht werden.

Patienten und Methodik

129 Begutachtungsfälle der Hautklinik Universitätsklinikum Erlangen und Fälle aus der deutschen Rechtsprechung (recherchiert in etablierten juristischen Datenbanken) wurden bezüglich Psoriasisfällen und Anwendbarkeit der o. g. Begutachtungsempfehlungen untersucht.

Ergebnisse

Die o. g. Begutachtungsempfehlungen wurden in den sechs Gutachtenfällen der Klinik mit Psoriasis (3,6 %) eingesetzt. Die darauf basierenden gutachterlichen Beurteilungen wurden gemäß Bescheiden der zuständigen Berufsgenossenschaft uneingeschränkt anerkannt. Die Recherche nach Urteilen zu berufsbedingter Psoriasis in der deutschen Rechtsprechung erbrachte insgesamt vier Urteile, wobei in einem Fall die Psoriasis als Berufserkrankung nach BK 5101 anerkannt wurde.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Psoriasis der Hände stellt im Vergleich zum Handekzem eine seltenere Erkrankung dar. Nach der deutschen Rechtsordnung ist, wie in der vorliegenden Fallserie dargestellt, die Anerkennung einer anlagebedingten Erkrankung als Berufserkrankung nach BK 5101 möglich, wenn ein Berufsbezug hinreichend wahrscheinlich gemacht werden kann und die anderen Voraussetzungen der Berufskrankheitenverordnung erfüllt sind.
The effect of biomass harvesting on greenhouse gas emissions from a rewetted temperate fen
Authors: Günther Anke , Huth Vytas , Jurasinski Gerald , Glatzel Stephan
Published: July 2014

The growing demand for bioenergy increases pressure on peatlands. The novel strategy of wet peatlands agriculture (paludiculture) may permit the production of bioenergy from biomass while avoiding large greenhouse gas emissions as occur during conventional crop cultivation on drained peat soils. Herein, we present the first greenhouse gas balances of a simulated paludiculture to assess its suitability as a biomass source from a climatic perspective. In a rewetted peatland, we performed closed‐chamber measurements of carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide exchange in stands of the potential crops Phragmites australis, Typha latifolia, and Carex acutiformis for two consecutive years. To simulate harvest, the biomass of half of the measurement spots was removed once per year. Carbon dioxide exchange was close to neutral in all tested stands. The effect of biomass harvest on the carbon dioxide exchange differed between the 2 years. During the first and second year, methane emissions were 13–63 g m−2 a−1 and 2–5 g m−2 a−1, respectively. Nitrous oxide emissions lay below our detection limit. Net greenhouse gas balances in the study plots were close to being climate neutral during both years except for the Carex stand, which was a source of greenhouse gases in the first year (in CO2‐equivalents: 18 t ha−1 a−1). Fifteen years after rewetting the net greenhouse gas balance of the study site was similar to those of pristine fens. In addition, we did not find a significant short‐term effect of biomass harvest on net greenhouse gas balances. In our ecosystem, ~17 t ha−1 a−1 of CO2‐equivalent emissions are saved by rewetting compared to a drained state. Applying this figure to the fen area in northern Germany, emission savings of 2.8–8.5 Mt a−1 CO2‐equivalents could possibly be achieved by rewetting; this excludes additional savings by fossil fuel replacement.
A New Shift‐Share Method
Authors: Artige Lionel , van Neuss Leif
Published: July 2014

Shift‐share analysis is a decomposition technique widely used in regional studies to quantify an industry‐mix effect and a competitive effect on the growth of regional employment (or any other relevant variable) relative to the national average. This technique has always been subject to criticism for its lack of theoretical basis. This paper presents a critical assessment of the methods suggested by Dunn and Esteban‐Marquillas and proposes a new shift‐share method, which separates out the two effects unambiguously. By way of illustration, we provide an application to manufacturing employment in the Belgian provinces between 1995 and 2007.
Evaluating Parking Monetization as a Strategy for Subsidizing Major League Sports Facilities
Authors: Propheter Geoffrey , Hatch Megan E.
Published: July 2014

The public sector traditionally subsidizes construction of major league sports facilities with bonds. In 2012, the city of Sacramento, California, approved a parking monetization agreement to raise cash for a new arena, thereby potentially avoiding the risks of bond financing altogether. Though the subsidy proposal ultimately fell through, the increasing popularity of parking monetization suggests that it is only a matter of time before other local governments consider the approach. This paper evaluates the use of parking monetization as a financing strategy to construct major league sports facilities. While professional stadia are the primary focus, many of the criticisms apply to large public capital projects more generally. We conclude that parking monetization is a risky facility subsidization strategy and a poor alternative to traditional bond financing.
Rapid corticosteroid tapering: Important risk factor for type 1 autoimmune hepatitis relapse in Japan
Authors: Takahashi Atsushi , Ohira Hiromasa , Abe Kazumichi , Miyake Yasuhiro , Abe Masanori , Yamamoto Kazuhide , Suzuki Yoshiyuki , Onji Morikazu , Tsubouchi Hirohito ,   Intractable Liver and Biliary Diseases Study Group of Japan
Published: July 2014

Aim

Patients with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) sometimes relapse after immunosuppressive therapies are discontinued or sometimes even while they are still being administrated. Furthermore, relapse often occurs in the absence of AIH relapse risk factors. This study aimed to identify the frequency of relapse and to analyze the risk factors associated with relapse in type 1 AIH patients.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and therapeutic processes were assessed in 129 type 1 AIH patients.

Results

Relapse was identified in 39 (30.2%) type 1 AIH patients after alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level normalization. ALT levels significantly increased when corticosteroid treatment was initiated in relapsed patients compared with that in patients with sustained remission. The reduction dose and rate of corticosteroid taper were significantly increased in relapsed patients compared with those in sustained remission patients. Moreover, positive correlations were identified between the reduction dose/taper rate and initial corticosteroid dose, and ALT levels, total bilirubin levels and hepatitis activity. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the corticosteroid reduction rate as significantly associated with AIH relapse.

Conclusion

Corticosteroid reduction taper rate until ALT normalization is an important AIH relapse risk factor.
The anatomical relationship between the roots of mandibular second molars and the inferior alveolar nerve
Authors: Chong B. S. , Quinn A. , Pawar R. R. , Makdissi J. , Sidhu S. K.
Published: July 2014

Aim

To evaluate the anatomical relationship between the roots of mandibular second molars and the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) in relation to the risk of potential nerve injury during root canal treatment.

Methodology

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images from the patient record database at a dental hospital were selected. The anonymized CBCT images were reconstructed and examined in three planes (coronal, axial and sagittal) using 3D viewing software. The relationship between each root apex of mandibular second molars and the IAN was evaluated by measuring the horizontal and vertical distances from coronal CBCT sections, and the actual distance was then calculated mathematically using Pythagoras’ theorem.

Results

In 55% of the 272 mandibular second molar roots evaluated, from a total of 134 scans, the distance between the anatomical root apex and the IAN was ≤3 mm.

Conclusions

In over 50% of the cases evaluated, there was an intimate relationship between the roots of mandibular second molars and the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN). Therefore, root canal treatment of mandibular second molars may pose a more significant potential risk of IAN injury; necessary precautions should be exercised, and the prudent use of CBCT should be considered if an intimate relationship is suspected.
Severe cutaneous adverse reactions in a local hospital setting: a 5‐year retrospective study
Authors: Su Peiqi , Aw Chen Wee Derrick
Published: July 2014

Background

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCAR) are rare but important causes of morbidity and mortality. Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS), Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) are severe cutaneous drug reactions that can be potentially life threatening. Our study aims to look at the epidemiology of SCAR in the local setting in Singapore and the underlying characteristics of our patients that may influence the drug reaction seen.

Methods

Data was collected retrospectively from in‐patient records in the period of January 2007 to December 2011. We looked at several factors: (i) patient demographics including age, gender, ethnicity, comorbidities, (ii) culprit drug(s), (iii) latent period, (iv) drug reaction observed, (v) systemic complications, (vi) length of hospital stay, (vii) treatment given, and (viii) outcomes (mortality, morbidity).

Results

We collected data from 42 patients. The mean age of our patients was 51.8 years. Twenty‐nine (69%) of the patients had underlying comorbidities. The most common culprit drug group was antibiotics. SJS was the most common SCAR observed (54.8%), followed by acute generalized exanthematous pustolosis (AGEP; 24%), TEN (11.9%), and DRESS (2%). Sixteen patients (38.1%) had complications, and there was one reported death. There was a weak correlation (correlation coefficient 0.29, P value = 0.15, 95% CI = 2.07) between early steroid therapy and the length of stay.

Conclusions

Antibiotics are the most common culprit drugs. The most common SCAR observed in our study was SJS. Early initiation of steroids may lead to a more favorable outcome.
Psoriasis and comorbidities in a southern Brazilian population: a case–control study
Authors: Menegon Dóris B. , Pereira Ana G. , Camerin Anna C. , Cestari Tania
Published: July 2014

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic disease with worldwide prevalences of 0.6–4.8%. Its inherent chronic inflammatory component predisposes patients to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the associations of psoriasis with comorbidities and health risk factors such as smoking and alcohol intake, and to examine demographic differences in its occurrence in a southern Brazil population.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre between April 2009 and March 2011. The sample comprised 350 patients with psoriasis and 346 healthy control subjects. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire. Tobacco load and alcohol consumption per person were investigated. Physical examination included blood pressure, waist circumference (WC), and body mass index (BMI) calculation. Clinical evaluation investigated whether psoriasis was localized or widespread and the percentage of body surface area (BSA) affected.

Results

Psoriasis patients exhibited an increased WC (P < 0.01) and BMI (P = 0.01) and higher incidences of smoking (P < 0.01) and depression (P < 0.01) than control subjects. A comparison of patients with involvement of <20% and >20% of BSA revealed significant differences in prevalences of hypertension (P = 0.03) and diabetes (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated higher incidences of depression, increased WC, overweight, obesity, and smoking in psoriasis patients compared with controls. Patients with >20% of BSA affected were 1.69 times more likely to have hypertension and 2.9 times more likely to have diabetes. Healthcare providers should be alert to the increased cardiovascular risk and metabolic specificities of patients with psoriasis. Appropriate information on healthy lifestyle habits, including maintenance of a healthy weight and participation in physical exercise, and avoidance of alcohol and smoking are fundamental.
Prevalence and risk factors for skin diseases among antiretroviral‐naïve HIV‐infected pregnant women in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Shayo Grace A. , Moshiro Candida , Spiegelman Donna , Mugusi Ferdinand M. , Chalamilla Guerino , Msamanga Gernard , Hawkins Claudia , Fawzi Wafaie
Published: July 2014

Background

Reduced cell‐mediated immunity associated with pregnancy may cause a flaring or exacerbation of some skin conditions. Little is known about the magnitude of and risk factors for skin diseases among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected antiretroviral therapy‐naïve pregnant women.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study of 1078 HIV‐infected antiretroviral therapy‐naïve pregnant women was conducted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Skin diagnoses were mainly clinical. Log‐binomial regression models were used to explore factors associated with the outcomes.

Results

About 84% of the women were in World Health Organization (WHO) HIV stage I. Median CD4+ count was 405 × 106 cells/l. The prevalence of any skin disease was 18%. Fungal infections (11%), genital ulcers (7%), and viral infections (5%) were the most common skin conditions. Skin infections were 2.64 times more common in HIV stage III (95% CI 1.51–4.62) compared to stage I. Fungal infections were 1.77 times common among single, divorced, and widowed women than among married women (95% CI 1.16–2.69), 2.8 times common among women in HIV stage III (95% CI 1.18–6.64) compared to stage I. Genital ulcers were significantly more common among women whose source of income was their own compared with those who got full support from partners, and among WHO HIV stage III disease compared to stage I.

Conclusion

The burden of skin diseases was relatively low. Advanced HIV stage was associated with a range of skin conditions. CD4+ cell count was not related to skin infection prevalence.
Clinical differences between early‐ and late‐onset psoriasis in Thai patients
Authors: Chularojanamontri Leena , Kulthanan Kanokvalai , Suthipinittharm Puan , Jiamton Sukhum , Wongpraparut Chanisada , Silpa‐Archa Narumol , Tuchinda Papapit , Sirikuddta Wararat
Published: July 2014

Objectives

There is a paucity of data regarding clinical differences between early‐onset psoriasis (EOP) and late‐onset psoriasis (LOP) in Asian populations. This study aimed to investigate clinical differences between EOP (onset at the age of <40 years) and LOP (onset at the age of ≥40 years) in Thai patients.

Methods

From 2002 until 2008, staff and residents in the Department of Dermatology, Siriraj Hospital, were asked to complete a questionnaire detailing the age of onset, family history of psoriasis, comorbid diseases, clinical features, nail and joint involvement, and severity of psoriasis in all psoriasis patients. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi‐squared tests.

Results

A total of 1017 patients were enrolled. Of these, 663 (65.2%) patients had EOP and 354 (34.8%) had LOP. The mean ± standard deviation age of onset was 24.8 ± 8.7 years in the EOP group and 51.6 ± 9.6 years in the LOP group. The two most common comorbid diseases were hypertension and diabetes mellitus in both groups. Patients with EOP had a significantly higher likelihood of both a family history of disease and guttate psoriasis. Palmoplantar psoriasis was more commonly found in LOP patients. Nail and joint involvement and disease severity were not associated significantly with age of onset.

Conclusions

The present study supports the hypothesis that there are clinical differences between EOP and LOP in Asian populations.
Kava dermopathy in Fiji: an acquired ichthyosis?
Authors: Hannam Sarah , Murray Michael , Romani Lucia , Tuicakau Meciusela , J Whitfeld Margot
Published: July 2014

Kava dermopathy is a common cutaneous effect of regular or heavy use of Kava, a psychoactive beverage consumed widely throughout the Pacific. In Fiji in 2012, over 1000 study participants underwent full skin examination, and kava dermopathy was a common cutaneous finding. The clinical manifestations of kava dermopathy share similarities with the spectrum of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyoses, predominantly lamellar ichthyosis. The pathogenesis of Kava dermopathy may be associated with a functional defect in one or more cytochrome P450 enzymes implicated in epidermal integrity, thus mimicking the genetic defect as seen in lamellar ichthyosis type 3.
Association between an educational intervention and a reduction in inappropriate troponin testing in patients presenting to an adult emergency department
Authors: Scorgie R. , Nicholls G. M. , Jones P.
Published: July 2014

Background

High‐sensitivity troponin replaced the fourth generation assay at our institution in July 2010. Prior experience suggested that the number of positive tests with the new assay may double, and that many troponin requests were inappropriate.

Aim

Primarily, this study aims to design and measure the effect of an educational intervention to reduce the number of inappropriate troponin tests. Second, other objectives are to compare weekly totals of troponin tests before and after the intervention, to note patients with missed acute coronary syndrome (ACS) during the study period and to survey clinicians regarding their likely troponin ordering practices in certain clinical scenarios.

Methods

A staff survey informed the content of the educational intervention. Criteria for inappropriate testing were defined prior to the study. Retrospective notes review of pre‐and post‐intervention cohorts were used to determine the reduction in inappropriate troponin tests.

Results

Ninety‐six patients were in each cohort. The proportion of inappropriate tests fell from 43% (95% confidence interval (CI) 33–53) pre‐intervention to 22% (95% CI 14–31) post‐intervention, P = 0.002. Weekly total of troponin tests performed decreased from a mean of 298 (95% CI, 290–307) pre‐intervention to 244 (95% CI 232–255) post‐intervention, P < 0.001. No cases of missed ACS were found; all cause mortality was unchanged following the intervention.

Conclusion

Our educational intervention was associated with a reduction in inappropriate use of troponin tests and a reduction in the total number of tests requested, with no known missed ACS. Others faced with a change to a high‐sensitivity assay should consider a similar intervention.
Sentinel surveillance of influenza in Burkina Faso: identification of circulating strains during 2010–2012
Authors: Tarnagda Zékiba , Yougbaré Issaka , Ilboudo Abdoul K. , Kagoné Thérèse , Sanou Armel M. , Cissé Assana , Médah Isaïe , Yelbéogo Denis , Talla Nzussouo Ndahwouh
Published: July 2014

Background

Although influenza surveillance has recently been improved in some sub‐Saharan African countries, no information is yet available from Burkina Faso.

Objectives

Our study was the first to determine the prevalence of influenza viruses circulating in Burkina Faso through a sentinel surveillance system.

Methods

We conducted sentinel surveillance with oropharyngeal (OP) swabs collected from outpatients (1 month to 83 years) from six sites in Bobo‐Dioulasso and Ouagadougou, among patients meeting the WHO/CDC case definition for influenza‐like illness (ILI; fever ≥38°C, and cough and/or sore throat in the absence of other diagnosis) from July 2010 to May 2012. Influenza viruses were detected by real‐time RT‐PCR using CDC primers, probes, and protocols.

Results

The first three ILI cases were enrolled each day; of 881 outpatients with ILI enrolled and sampled, 58 (6·6%) tested positive for influenza viruses (29 influenza A and 29 influenza B). Among the influenza A viruses, 55·2% (16/29) were influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 and 44·8% (13/29) were seasonal A (H3N2). No cases of seasonal A/H1N1 were detected. Patients within 0–5 years and 6–14 years were the most affected, comprising 41·4% and 22·4% laboratory‐confirmed influenza cases, respectively. Influenza infections occurred during both the dry, dusty Harmattan months from November to March and the rainy season from June to October with peaks in January and August.

Conclusions

This surveillance was the first confirming the circulation of influenza A (H1N1)pdm09, A/H3N2, and influenza B viruses in humans in Burkina Faso.
A companionship between strangers – learning from fellow people with cancer in oncology wards
Authors: Andersen Lene Søndergård , Larsen Birte Hedegaard , Birkelund Regner
Published: July 2014

Aim

An identification and discussion of learning from experience among hospitalized people with cancer.

Background

A good deal of literature focuses on the fact that the needs of patients for information about their disease and treatment should be met by healthcare professionals. Less attention is given to the kind of information that can be provided by personal experience. Patient–patient interaction as a learning situation has not been identified in current research.

Design

The study methodology was qualitative and influenced by ethnography.

Method

A qualitative approach with participant observation and qualitative interviews was used. From a total of 85 observed people with cancer, ten men and ten women were interviewed in 2010–2011. Data were analysed using qualitative data analysis inspired by Ian Dey and structured using NVivo9.

Findings

The hospitalized patients learnt about life with cancer from sharing information and personal experiences with fellow patients. Information from fellow patients was complementary to information given by healthcare professionals. Sharing personal experiences led patients to oscillate between four general response stages: the response of fighting, the response of keeping hope, the response of non‐acceptance and the response of capitulation.

Conclusion

Learning from exchanges of experiences with fellow patients provided a better understanding about the disease and was valued because it was first‐hand knowledge. Patients’ personal experience of disease is an underused resource in nursing.
Relationship dimensions of the ‘Down syndrome advantage’
Authors: Mitchell D. B. , Hauser‐Cram P. , Crossman M. K.
Published: July 2014

Background

Some researchers have proposed an ‘advantage’ for parents of children with Down syndrome over parents of children with other intellectual disabilities, especially in relation to experiencing less parenting stress. Others have maintained that these differences are an artefact of demographic and related differences. This study extends the investigation of possible differences in dimensions of parenting stress and also examines whether differences exist in maternal and child contingent responsiveness during mother–child interaction in these two groups.

Method

Mothers of children with Down syndrome (n = 43) and undifferentiated developmental disabilities (n = 54) completed measures of children's adaptive functioning and behaviour problems, parenting stress and maternal social support. Observers rated the contingent interactions between mothers and children using the Nursing Child Assessment Teaching Scale.

Results

Once mother's age, education and social support as well as child adaptive functioning and behaviour problems were considered, neither parent nor child related parenting stress demonstrated an advantage for parents of children with Down syndrome. However, a ‘Down syndrome advantage’ was apparent for both maternal and child contingent responsiveness after accounting for maternal demographic and contextual variables and child attributes.

Conclusions

Children with Down syndrome and their mothers have more positive interactions than children with other developmental disabilities, both in terms of the responsiveness of mothers and of child responses contingent on maternal behaviour. These findings suggest that both children with Down syndrome themselves and their mothers are contributing to a Down syndrome advantage.
LeuO enhances butyrate‐induced virulence expression through a positive regulatory loop in enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli
Authors: Takao Miyuki , Yen Hilo , Tobe Toru
Published: July 2014

Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) causes bloody diarrhoea and other severe symptoms such as haemorrhagic uraemic syndrome. The expression of virulence genes on the locus for enterocyte effacement (LEE) and associated genes is regulated by a variety of factors, including transcriptional regulators and environmental signals. Butyrate, one of the major short‐chain fatty acids present in the intestine, enhances expression of LEE genes and flagella biosynthesis genes in EHEC O157:H7, resulting in increased bacterial adherence and motility. Here, we show that expression of the leuO gene, which encodes a LysR‐type transcriptional regulator, is enhanced by butyrate via Lrp, which is also necessary for butyrate‐induced responses of LEE genes. LeuO expression induces prolonged activation of the promoter of LEE1 operon, including the ler gene, as well as virulence mechanisms such as microcolony formation. Activation of the LEE1 promoter by LeuO depends on another regulator, called Pch. The response of the leuO promoter to butyrate requires two virulence regulators, Pch and Ler, in addition to Lrp. Pch, Ler and Lrp bind the upstream region of the leuO promoter. Thus, leuO is involved in butyrate‐enhanced expression of LEE genes through a positive feedback mechanism, but its expression and action on the LEE1 promoter are dependent on the virulence regulators Pch and Ler.
Pascal's Wager Today: Belief and the Gift of Existence
Authors: Hodge Joel
Published: July 2014

The enduring value of the Pascal's Wager is that, bypassing intractable debates over God's existence, it brings the question of God into a practical, existential focus. This essay seeks to re-examine this famous Wager for its possible application to the current context of widespread agnosticism and increasingly assertive atheism. The essay argues that if rightly contextualised the Wager reminds people to seriously address their need for meaningful commitments and to confront their mortality. Rather than focusing on winning and losing in the afterlife, the Wager in our modern context can serve to highlight how human life is structured according to meaning, giftedness and relationality. Revealing the gifted and finite nature of existence provides grounds for a discussion of ultimate meaning and God.
WILDLIFE RESERVES, POPULATIONS, AND HUNTING OUTCOME WITH SMART WILDLIFE
Authors: JENSEN FRANK , JACOBSEN JETTE BREDAHL , STRANGE NIELS , THORSEN BO JELLESMARK
Published: July 2014

We consider a hunting area and a wildlife reserve and answer the question: How does clever migration decision affect the social optimal and the private optimal hunting levels and population stocks? We analyze this in a model allowing for two‐way migration between hunting and reserve areas, where the populations’ migration decisions depend on both hunting pressure and relative population densities. In the social optimum a pure stress effect on the behavior of smart wildlife exists. This implies that the population level in the wildlife reserve tends to increase and the population level in the hunting area and hunting levels tend to decrease. On the other hand, the effect on stock tends to reduce the population in the wildlife reserve and increase the population in the hunting area and thereby also increase hunting. In the case of the private optimum, open‐access is assumed and we find that the same qualitative results arise when comparing a situation with and without stress effects, but of course at a higher level of hunting. We also show that when net social benefits of hunting dominate the net social benefits of populations, wildlife reserves are optimally placed in areas of low carrying capacity and vice versa.
Kidney and liver transplantation in children with fibrocystic liver–kidney disease: Data from the US Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients: 1990–2010
Authors: Wen Jessica W. , Furth Susan L. , Ruebner Rebecca L.
Published: July 2014

The natural history and survival of children with fibrocystic liver–kidney disease undergoing solid organ transplantation have infrequently been described. We report outcomes in a cohort of US children with fibrocystic liver–kidney disease receiving solid organ transplants over 20 yr. Retrospective cohort study of pediatric transplant recipients with diagnoses of fibrocystic liver–kidney disease from 1/1990 to 3/2010, using data from the SRTR. Subjects were categorized by the first transplanted organ: LT, KT, or SLK. Primary outcomes were death, re‐transplant, transplant of the alternate organ, or initiation of dialysis. Seven hundred and sixteen subjects were transplanted in this period. Median age at first transplant was 9.7 yr. Of the LT, 14 (19%) required a second liver transplant at median of 0.2 yr, and five (7%) required kidney transplant or dialysis at a median of 9.0 yr. Of the KT, 188 (31%) required a second kidney transplant or dialysis at a median of 5.9 yr. Twenty‐nine (5%) subsequently received liver transplant at a median of 6.0 yr. Among patients in this registry, far more children underwent kidney than liver transplants. The risk of subsequently needing transplantation of an alternate organ was low.
Cohesive Zone-Based Damage Evolution in Periodic Materials Via Finite-Volume Homogenization
Authors: Tu Wenqiong , Pindera Marek-Jerzy
Published: July 2014

The zeroth-order parametric finite-volume direct averaging micromechanics (FVDAM) theory is further extended in order to model the evolution of damage in periodic heterogeneous materials. Toward this end, displacement discontinuity functions are introduced into the formulation, which may represent cracks or traction-interfacial separation laws within a unified framework. The cohesive zone model (CZM) is then implemented to simulate progressive separation of adjacent phases or subdomains. The new capability is verified in the linear region upon comparison with an exact elasticity solution for an inclusion surrounded by a linear interface of zero thickness in an infinite matrix that obeys the same law as CZM before the onset of degradation. The extended theory's utility is then demonstrated by revisiting the classical fiber/matrix debonding phenomenon observed in SiC/Ti composites, illustrating its ability to accurately capture the mechanics of progressive interfacial degradation.
Radial Turbines Diagnosis in Turbocharging Application
Authors: Barelli L. , Bidini G. , Bonucci F.
Published: July 2014

The main purpose of this work is the development of a diagnostic procedure for radial turbines installed on internal combustion engine turbochargers. The study is part of a wider research activity regarding the development of diagnostic systems dedicated to cogenerative engine. The proposed procedure is able to formulate a judgment about the turbines efficiency through the real-time evaluation of an effective performance index, only on the basis of pressure measurements across the turbine. Such diagnostic procedure was developed in reference to experimental data gathered in two acquisition campaigns performed before and after a consistent maintenance intervention on engine turbines. The first part of the work approaches turbine failures issues, while in the second one experimental results are presented and analyzed. Finally, the study deals with the definition of some turbine health state indices and their test in reference to the experimental data cited above. A particular index was validated as useful to be implemented in a diagnostic procedure for detection of turbine degradation.
Mounting a thermocouple of type E onto a Cu single crystal for use in a magnetically sensitive environment below 77 K
Authors: Potzuweit Alexander , Schaffner Anuschka , Jänsch Heinz Julius
Published: July 2014

Type E thermocouples show magnetic effects at liquid nitrogen temperature and below. This may cause trouble in experiments that are sensitive to magnetic stray fields like nuclear magnetic resonance, photoemission or high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy. Here, a solution for the temperature measurement of a single crystal is presented. The authors weld a copper rod onto the back side of the single crystal, thereby relocating the sensitive sample from the thermocouple attachment position. They show that it is possible to measure the crystal temperature at the end of the rod while significantly reducing the ferromagnetic influence due to the increased distance.
MDM2-mediated degradation of SIRT6 phosphorylated by AKT1 promotes tumorigenesis and trastuzumab resistance in breast cancer
Authors: Thirumurthi Umadevi , Shen Jia , Xia Weiya , LaBaff Adam M. , Wei Yongkun , Li Chia-Wei , Chang Wei-Chao , Chen Chung-Hsuan , Lin Hui-Kuan , Yu Dihua , Hung Mien-Chie
Published: July 2014

Activating a deacetylase may overcome resistance to a receptor-targeted inhibitor in some breast cancer patients.