bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomized trial of nutrition education added to internet-based information and exercise at the work place for weight loss in a racially diverse population of overweight women
Authors: Carnie A , Lin J , Aicher B , Leon B , Courville A B , Sebring N G , de Jesus J , DellaValle D M , Fitzpatrick B D , Zalos G , Powell-Wiley T M , Chen K Y , Cannon R O
Published: December 2013

Objective:

Obesity in the United States is highly prevalent, approaching 60% for black women. We investigated whether nutrition education sessions at the work place added to internet-based wellness information and exercise resources would facilitate weight and fat mass loss in a racially diverse population of overweight female employees.

Methods:

A total of 199 (average body mass index 33.9±6.3 kg m−2) nondiabetic women (57% black) at our institution were randomized to a 6-month program of either internet-based wellness information (WI) combined with dietitian-led nutrition education group sessions (GS) weekly for 3 months and then monthly with shift in emphasis to weight loss maintenance (n=99) or to WI alone (n=100). All were given access to exercise rooms convenient to their work site. Fat mass was measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Results:

WI+GS subjects lost more weight than WI subjects at 3 months (−2.2±2.8 vs −1.0±3.0 kg,P>0.001). Weight (−2.7±3.9 vs −2.0±3.9 kg) and fat mass (−2.2±3.1 vs −1.7±3.7 kg) loss at 6 months was significant for WI+GS and WI groups (bothP<0.001), but without significant difference between groups (bothP>0.10); 27% of the WI+GS group achieved ⩾5% loss of initial weight as did 18% of the WI group (P=0.180). Blacks and whites similarly completed the study (67 vs 74%,P=0.303), lost weight (−1.8±3.4 vs −3.3±5.2 kg,P=0.255) and fat mass (−1.6±2.7 vs −2.5±4.3 kg,P=0.532), and achieved ⩾5% loss of initial weight (21 vs 32%,P=0.189), irrespective of group assignment.

Conclusion:

Overweight women provided with internet-based wellness information and exercise resources at the work site lost weight and fat mass, with similar achievement by black and white women. Additional weight loss benefit of nutrition education sessions, apparent at 3 months, was lost by 6 months and may require special emphasis on subjects who fail to achieve weight loss goals to show continued value.
The synthesis and biological evaluation of mycobacterial p-hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives (p-HBADs)
Authors: Bourke Jean , Brereton Corinna F. , Gordon Stephen V. , Lavelle Ed C. , Scanlan Eoin M.
Published: December 2013

Synthetic p-hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives (p-HBADs) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis have the ability to suppress host immune response in vitro.
Role of public transport in accessibility to emergency dental care in Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Rocha Carla M. , Kruger Estie , McGuire Shane , Tennant Marc
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to develop a method for the analysis of the influence of public transport supply in a large city (Melbourne) on the access to emergency dental treatment. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools were used to associate the geographical distribution of patients (and their socioeconomic status) with accessibility (through public transport supply, i.e. bus, tram and/or train) to emergency dental care. The methodology used allowed analysis of the socioeconomic status of patient residential areas and both spatial location and supply frequency of public transport by using existing data from patient records, census and transport departments. In metropolitan Melbourne, a total of 13 784 patients met the inclusion criteria for the study sample, of which 95% (n = 13 077) were living within a 50 km radius of the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne. Low socioeconomic areas had a higher demand for dental emergency care in the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne. Public transport supply was similar across the various socioeconomic strata in the population, with 80% of patients having good access to public transport. However, when considering only high-frequency bus stops, the percentage of patients living within 400 m from a bus stop dropped to 65%. Despite this, the number of patients (adjusted to the population) coming from areas not supplied by public transport, and from areas with good or poor public transport supply, was similar. The methodology applied in the present study highlights the importance of evaluating not only the spatial distribution but also the frequency of public transport supply when studying access to services. This methodology can be extrapolated to other settings to identity transport/access patterns for a variety of services.
A Cluster of Methicillin-Susceptible Staphylococcus aureus Infections at a Rheumatology Practice, New York City, 2011
Authors: Drezner Kate , Antwi Mike , Del Rosso Paula , Dorsinville Marie , Kellner Pamela , Ackelsberg Joel
Published: December 2013

A cluster of 5 methicillin-susceptible Staphylococcus aureus infections occurred after administration of methylprednisolone acetate injections in a rheumatology practice. A site visit was conducted to inspect examination rooms, observe techniques, and review charts. The investigation revealed a pervasive lack of aseptic technique that led to multiple opportunities for medication contamination.
Settler skills and colonial development: the Huguenot wine‐makers in eighteenth‐century Dutch South Africa
Authors: Fourie Johan , von Fintel Dieter
Published: December 2013

The institutional literature emphasizes local conditions in explaining divergent colonial development. We posit that this view can be enriched by an important supply‐side cause: the skills with which the settlers arrive. The Huguenots who arrived at the Cape Colony in 1688/9, we argue, possessed skills different from those of the incumbent farmers, and this enabled them to become more productive wine‐makers. We demonstrate this by showing that this difference is explained by none of the standard factors of production, nor by any institutional differences between the French and the Dutch. We observe that a group of Huguenot descendants from wine‐producing regions maintained their advantage in wine‐making at the Cape over several generations. This disparity cannot be satisfactorily explained as resulting from first‐mover advantage or social capital. Specialized skills gave the Huguenots from wine‐producing regions a sustained competitive advantage. Our results show that colonial institutions are shaped not only by whether immigrants settle or not, which legal system they adopt, or their language, religion, or beliefs, but by the set of skills, knowledge, and experience brought from their country of origin. As such, cross‐country comparisons may blur much of the detail when we analyse the effect that settlers have on the destination country.
O‐Ring production on U.S. hog farms: joint choices of farm size, technology, and compensation
Authors: Yu Li , Orazem Peter F.
Published: December 2013

We hypothesize that hog production can be characterized by complementarities between new technologies, worker skills, and farms size. Such production processes are consistent with Kremer's O‐ring production theory in which a single mistake in any one of several complementary tasks in a firm's production process can lead to catastrophic failure of the product's value. In hog production, mistakes that introduce disease or pathogens into the production facility can cause a total loss of the herd. Consistent with predictions derived from the O‐ring theory, we provide evidence that the most skilled workers concentrate in the largest and most technologically advanced farms and are paid more than comparable workers on smaller farms. These findings suggest that worker skills, new technologies, and farm size are complements in production. The complementarities create returns to scale to large hog confinements, consistent with the dramatic increase in market share of very large farms over the past 20 years.
Five‐Year Experience With Mini‐Volume Priming in Infants ≤5 kg: Safety of Significantly Smaller Transfusion Volumes
Authors: Chang Hyoung Woo , Nam Jinhae , Cho Jae‐Hee , Lee Jeong‐Ryul , Kim Yong‐Jin , Kim Woong‐Han
Published: December 2013

Reducing the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) priming volume in congenital cardiac surgery is important because it is associated with fewer transfusions. This retrospective study was designed to compare safety and transfusion volumes between the mini‐volume priming (MP) and conventional priming (CP) methods. Between 2007 and 2012, congenital heart surgery using CPB was performed on 480 infants (≤5 kg): the MP method was used in 331 infants (MP group, 69.0%), and the CP method was used in 149 infants (CP group, 31.0%). In the MP group, narrow‐caliber (3/16″) tubing was used, and the pump heads were vertically aligned to shorten the tubing lengths. The smallest possible oxygenators and hemofilters were used, and vacuum drainage was applied. Ultrafiltration was vigorously applied during CPB to avoid excessive hemodilution. The mean age and body weight of the patients were 48 ± 41 (0–306) days and 3.8 ± 0.8 (1.3–5.0) kg, respectively. The total priming and transfusion volumes during CPB were lower in the MP group than in the CP group (141 ± 24 mL vs. 292 ± 50 mL, P < 0.001, and 82 ± 40 mL vs. 162 ± 82 mL, P < 0.001, respectively). In the MP group, the smallest priming volume was 110 mL. However, there was no significant difference in the lowest hematocrit level during CPB between the two groups (22 ± 3% vs. 22 ± 3%, P = 0.724). The incidence of postoperative neurological complications was not significantly different between the MP and CP groups (1.8% vs. 2.7%, P = 0.509). After adjustment for the Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery category, body surface area, and age, MP was not an independent risk factor of postoperative neurological complications or early mortality (P = 0.213 and P = 0.467, respectively). The MP method reduced the priming volume to approximately 140 mL without increasing the risk of morbidity or mortality in infants ≤5 kg. The total transfusion volume during CPB was reduced by 50% without compromising hematocrit levels. We recommend the use of mini‐volume priming, which is a safe and effective method for reducing transfusion volumes.
Temporal association as a prerequisite factor of valsartan‐induced lithium toxicity
Authors: Lazarczyk Maciej Jakub , Giannakopoulos Panteleimon
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Lithium is often the mood stabilizer of choice for the treatment of type I bipolar disorder. However, side effects as well as the narrow therapeutic dosing range often complicate its use. Lithium toxicity can be fatal and its serum level needs to be closely monitored, especially at the time of introduction and titration, or whenever combined with potentially interacting drugs, such as inhibitors of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE‐I) or angiotensin receptor 1 (AT1) blockers. ACE‐I and AT1 blockers can increase serum lithium levels, leading to acute lithium toxicity upon their introduction or titration.

Methods

Here, we report a case of lithium toxicity during concomitant treatment with valsartan, an AT1 blocker, in a patient who previously displayed a stable serum lithium level. The patient was observed for a few weeks and the serum lithium concentration was measured regularly.

Results

In contrast to previous reports, the toxicity in our patient occurred not upon introduction or titration of lithium or valsartan but after subtle modifications in daily dosing schedule for lithium. Just before the onset of toxicity, lithium had been split into two doses, whereby half of the lithium daily dose was administrated concomitantly with valsartan. We presumed that this combination had led to simultaneous concentration peaks of valsartan and lithium, promoting lithium retention within a sharp time window.

Conclusions

Our observation points to the need for caution not only during the introduction and titration of ACE‐I/AT1 blockers in lithium‐treated patients, but also whenever the temporal pattern of drug administration is modified.
An endoscopic test for bit‐induced nasopharyngeal asphyxia as a cause of exercise‐induced pulmonary haemorrhage in the horse
Authors: Cook W. R.
Published: December 2013

see also article by Lyle et al.
Serum interferon‐gamma‐inducible protein‐10 concentrations and IL28B genotype associated with responses to pegylated interferon plus ribavirin with and without telaprevir for chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Matsuura Kentaro , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Iijima Sayuki , Murakami Shuko , Fujiwara Kei , Orito Etsuro , Iio Etsuko , Endo Mio , Kusakabe Atsunori , Shinkai Noboru , Miyaki Tomokatsu , Nojiri Shunsuke , Joh Takashi , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: December 2013

Aim

Several studies have shown that high pretreatment concentrations of serum interferon‐γ‐inducible protein‐10 (IP‐10) are correlated with non‐response to pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) plus ribavirin (RBV) for chronic hepatitis C (CHC). However, there are few reports on their effect on the Asian population.

Methods

We enrolled 104 Japanese genotype 1 CHC individuals treated with PEG‐IFN/RBV and 45 with PEG‐IFN/RBV/telaprevir, and evaluated the impact of pretreatment serum IP‐10 concentrations on their virological responses.

Results

The pretreatment serum IP‐10 concentrations were not correlated with IL28B genotype. The receiver–operator curve analysis determined the cut‐off value of IP‐10 for predicting a sustained virological response (SVR) as 300 pg/mL. In multivariate analysis, the IL28B favorable genotype and IP‐10 concentration of less than 300 pg/mL were independent factors for predicting SVR. In a subgroup of patients with the IL28B favorable genotype, the SVR rate was higher in the patients with IP‐10 of less than 300 than in those with 300 pg/mL or more, whereas no patient with the IL28B unfavorable genotype and IP‐10 of 300 pg/mL or more achieved SVR. Among the patients treated with PEG‐IFN/RBV/telaprevir, low pretreatment concentrations of serum IP‐10 were associated with a very rapid virological response, defined as undetectable HCV RNA at week 2 after the start of therapy.

Conclusion

Pretreatment serum IP‐10 concentrations are associated with treatment efficacy in PEG‐IFN/RBV and with early viral kinetics of hepatitis C virus in PEG‐IFN/RBV/telaprevir therapy.
Morphotropic Phase Boundary in Solution‐Derived (Bi0.5Na0.5)1−xBaxTiO3 Thin Films: Part II Functional Properties and Phase Stability
Authors: Perez‐Rivero Armando , Ricote Jesus , Bretos Inigo , Calzada M. L. , de la Cruz Javier Pérez , Fernandes Jose R.A. , Jiménez Ricardo
Published: December 2013

The analysis of the functional properties (ferroelectric, dielectric, and piezoelectric) of chemical solution deposited thin films of the lead‐free (Bi0.5Na0.5)1−xBaxTiO3 (BNBT) solid solution prepared from solution precursors with and without Na+ and Bi3+ excesses has been performed in this work. At room temperature a nonergodic relaxor ferroelectric state has been found. The switched polarization of the films is not stable at room temperature, poor remnant polarization, associated with an enhancement of the induced domains randomization produced by the films constraints. The depolarization temperature for the switched polarization allowed us to build up a tentative phase diagram for these BNBT films. Both the better functional properties and the agreement of the depolarization temperature with the freezing temperature of the relaxor Volger–Fulcher behavior permit to locate the center of the morphotropic phase boundary region close to x = 0.055 in the stoichiometric films and x = 0.10 for the films with Na+ and Bi3+ excesses. Based on these results, the possible applications of these films are discussed.
A qualitative systematic review exploring lay understanding of cancer by adults without a cancer diagnosis
Authors: Balmer Claire , Griffiths Frances , Dunn Janet
Published: December 2013

Aim

To explore the lay understanding of cancer.

Background

Lay understanding of illness is shaped by social identity, personal biography and experience. It informs how ill health is defined, concerns are managed and interventions evaluated. An appreciation of lay understanding is therefore vital to enable relay of effective and appropriate health information to the public and care provision and support to patients.

Design

A qualitative systematic review using Thomas and Harden's (2008) approach to thematic synthesis.

Data sources

Key social science, nursing and medical databases, cancer organization websites for grey literature and a hand search of references retrieved from particularly relevant articles and journals.

Review methods

Thematic synthesis of eligible papers (studies on adults without a cancer diagnosis, generated from WHO‐defined ‘high‐income’ countries and published between 1990–2011). Only those focusing on the understanding of cancer, rather than screening or cancer genetics, were included.

Results

Six analytical themes were identified from 26 papers, generated from 25 studies. Explorations of the causes of cancer and interpretation of personal risk dominated the published work. These revealed a significant complexity in lay understanding. This review has also highlighted the need for additional work, particularly in gaining an understanding of the stigma and fear that surround cancer.

Conclusion

The themes identified by this review have the potential to inform the development of appropriate health promotion strategies and clinical services for those living with cancer and lead to a better understanding of problematic areas, such as late presentation, which continues to impede efforts to improve cancer survival.
INTERJURISDICTIONAL TAX COMPETITION IN CHINA
Authors: Liu Yongzheng , Martinez‐Vazquez Jorge
Published: December 2013

This paper aims to provide empirical evidence on the extent and possible channels of tax competition among provincial governments in China. Using a panel of provincial‐level data for 1993–2007, we find strong evidence of strategic tax interaction among provincial governments. Tax policy is approximated by average effective tax rates on foreign investment, taking into account the tax incentives available to foreign investors. In line with the predictions of the theoretical tax competition literature, we also highlight the impact of each province's characteristics (including its size and level of industrialization) on the strategic interaction with its neighbors. Finally, the paper explicitly identifies the establishment of development zones as an important conduit for tax competition among provinces.
VALUING THE “GREEN” AMENITIES IN A SPATIAL CONTEXT
Authors: Wu Wenjie , Dong Guanpeng
Published: December 2013

Despite extensive public infrastructure spending, little is known about the benefits of access to “green amenities” like parks within cities. This paper uses spatial econometric methods to estimate the value of proximity to parks using land markets in a Chinese megacity. Our research design captures mechanisms of spatial interaction effects and highlights the importance of avoiding the biases inherent in the traditional valuation approach. Our results suggest that land adjacent to parks is significantly valued by land developers and that these valuations are not distributed evenly over space. Our evidence provides support for considering locations in explaining the amenity value differentials that are grounded in the social, economic, and local contextual forces at stake.
Risk factors for mortality among human immunodeficiency virus‐exposed and unexposed infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit in Botswana
Authors: Zash Rebecca M , Ajose‐Popoola Olubunmi , Stordal Ketil , Souda Sajini , Ogwu Anthony , Dryden‐Peterson Scott , Powis Kathleen , Lockman Shahin , Makhema Joe , Essex Max , Shapiro Roger L
Published: December 2013

Aim

Newborns admitted to neonatal units (NNUs) in resource‐limited settings face a high risk of mortality, but the epidemiology of these deaths is poorly understood. We describe risk factors for NNU mortality in an area with high prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study of infants admitted to the NNU at a public referral hospital in Gaborone, Botswana. The primary outcome was neonatal death, defined as death within 28 days of a live delivery. Cox proportional hazard models were used to evaluate risk factors for mortality.

Results

From October 2008 to April 2009, 449 neonates were admitted to the NNU. Cumulative mortality was 24.5% (110/449). Factors associated with increased risk of death included lack of enteral feeding (hazard ratio (HR) 18.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 10.3, 34.2), gestational age <28 weeks (HR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1, 3.8) and Apgar score <7 at 10 min (HR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5, 4.2). Among 348 (78%) infants who were fed, there was no difference in mortality between infants who were breastfed compared with those who were formula fed or had mixed feeding (P = 0.76). There was no significant mortality difference by HIV exposure status; 35 (28%) of 128 HIV‐exposed infants died compared with 55 (21%) of 272 HIV‐unexposed infants (P = 0.19).

Conclusions

This study identified low Apgar scores, extreme prematurity and lack of enteral feeding as the most important risk factors for mortality in this NNU setting. HIV exposure and formula feeding were not significantly associated with death in neonates who were very ill.
Measles in a South African paediatric intensive care unit: Again!
Authors: Coetzee Saskia , Morrow Brenda M , Argent Andrew C
Published: December 2013

Aim

The aim of this study is to evaluate the outcomes of children with measles‐related disease (MRD) admitted to a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and the effect on PICU resources and elective surgery of a recent measles epidemic.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of all patients admitted to the PICU of Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa, with MRD from January to December 2010. Patient admission characteristics, duration of PICU admission and mortality were recorded. Costs were calculated using bed days utilised and estimated daily PICU admission cost.

Results

A total of 1274 children were admitted over the study period, 58 (4.6%) with MRD (median (interquartile range) age 7 (5–9) months). Pneumonia was the most common reason for admission (81%) and the main cause of mortality. Non‐MRD mortality was 8.8% compared with MRD mortality of 31% (P < 0.0001). Standardised mortality for non‐MRD was 0.7 versus 1.7 in MRD (P = 0.002). HIV comorbidity and being underweight for age were associated with increased mortality. Patients with MRD occupied 379 bed days with a median (interquartile range) duration of stay of 5.5 (3.0–9.0) days at an estimated overall cost of R4 813 300 (approximately $543 900). During the study period, 67 children booked for elective surgery, and 87 other referrals were refused PICU admission.

Conclusions

MRD was associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and substantial strain on scarce PICU resources.
Ecological and evolutionary implications of spatial heterogeneity during the off‐season for a wild plant pathogen
Authors: Tack Ayco J. M. , Laine Anna‐Liisa
Published: December 2013

While recent studies have elucidated many of the factors driving parasite dynamics during the growing season, the ecological and evolutionary dynamics during the off‐season (i.e. the period between growing seasons) remain largely unexplored.

We combined large‐scale surveys and detailed experiments to investigate the overwintering success of the specialist plant pathogenPodosphaera plantaginison its patchily distributed host plantPlantago lanceolatain the Åland Islands.

Twelve years of epidemiological data establish the off‐season as a crucial stage in pathogen metapopulation dynamics, withc. 40% of the populations going extinct during the off‐season. At the end of the growing season, we observed environmentally mediated variation in the production of resting structures, with major consequences for spring infection at spatial scales ranging from single individuals to populations within a metapopulation. Reciprocal transplant experiments further demonstrated that pathogen population of origin and overwintering site jointly shaped infection intensity in spring, with a weak signal of parasite adaptation to the local off‐season environment.

We conclude that environmentally mediated changes in the distribution and evolution of parasites during the off‐season are crucial for our understanding of host–parasite dynamics, with applied implications for combating parasites and diseases in agriculture, wildlife and human disease systems.
Three‐dimensional cephalometric analysis in orthodontics: a systematic review
Authors: Pittayapat P. , Limchaichana‐Bolstad N. , Willems G. , Jacobs R.
Published: December 2013

Structured Abstract

Context

The scientific evidence of 3D cephalometry in orthodontics has not been well established.

Objective

The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence for the diagnostic efficacy of 3D cephalometry in orthdontics, focusing on measurement accuracy and reproducibility of landmark identification.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane library (from beginning to March 13, 2012) were searched. Search terms included: cone‐beam computed tomography; tomography, spiral computed; imaging, three‐dimensional; orthodontics.

Study Selection

Two reviewers read the retrieved articles and selected relevant publications based on pre‐established inclusion criteria. The selected publications had to elucidate the hierarchical model of the efficacy of diagnostic imaging systems by Fryback and Thornbury.

Data Extraction

The data was then extracted according to two protocols, which were based on the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS) tool. Next, levels of evidence were categorized into 3 groups: low, moderate and high evidence.

Data Synthesis

571 publications were found by database search strategies and 50 additional studies by hand search. A total of 35 publications were included in this review.

Conclusions

Limited evidence for the diagnostic efficacy of 3D cephalometry was found. Only 6 studies met the criteria for a moderate level of evidence. Accordingly, this systematic review reveals that there is still need for methodologically standardized studies on 3D cephalometric analysis.
Exergy Analysis of Photovoltaic Panels-Coupled Solid Oxide Fuel Cell and Gas Turbine-Electrolyzer Hybrid System
Authors: Sadeghi Saber , Ameri Mehran
Published: December 2013

Exergy losses represent true losses of potential to generate a desired product, exergy efficiencies always provide a measure of approach to ideality, and the links between exergy and both economics and environmental impact can help develop improvements. In this study, PV-coupled Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) and Gas Turbine (GT)-electrolyzer hybrid power generation system is considered to determine the contribution of different hybrid system components in the total exergy loss. The number of panels, the power of SOFC–GT, and the power of electrolyzer can have different values. Therefore, to obtain the optimum combination from ecological, economical, and reliability points of view, a multi-objective optimization algorithm (PESA) is considered. This optimization method chooses a set of optimum solutions that is known as Pareto frontier. The exergy loss of some of these optimum solutions is compared with each other. The effect of panel angle and SOFC–GT fuel type on the hybrid system exergy loss is considered in this study. Also, the hybrid system exergy loss is determined in different months of the year to obtain the worst month from exergy loss view.
Diagnostic Uncertainties During Assessment of Serial Coronary Stenoses: An In Vitro Study
Authors: D’Souza Gavin A. , Peelukhana Srikara V. , Banerjee Rupak K.
Published: December 2013

Currently, the diagnosis of coronary stenosis is primarily based on the well-established functional diagnostic parameter, fractional flow reserve (FFR: ratio of pressures distal and proximal to a stenosis). The threshold of FFR has a “gray” zone of 0.75–0.80, below which further clinical intervention is recommended. An alternate diagnostic parameter, pressure drop coefficient (CDP: ratio of trans-stenotic pressure drop to the proximal dynamic pressure), developed based on fundamental fluid dynamics principles, has been suggested by our group. Additional serial stenosis, present downstream in a single vessel, reduces the hyperemic flow, Q˜h, and pressure drop, Δp˜, across an upstream stenosis. Such hemodynamic variations may alter the values of FFR and CDP of the upstream stenosis. Thus, in the presence of serial stenoses, there is a need to evaluate the possibility of misinterpretation of FFR and test the efficacy of CDP of individual stenoses. In-vitro experiments simulating physiologic conditions, along with human data, were used to evaluate nine combinations of serial stenoses. Different cases of upstream stenosis (mild: 64% area stenosis (AS) or 40% diameter stenosis (DS); intermediate: 80% AS or 55% DS; and severe: 90% AS or 68% DS) were tested under varying degrees of downstream stenosis (mild, intermediate, and severe). The pressure drop-flow rate characteristics of the serial stenoses combinations were evaluated for determining the effect of the downstream stenosis on the upstream stenosis. In general, Q˜h and Δp˜ across the upstream stenosis decreased when the downstream stenosis severity was increased. The FFR of the upstream mild, intermediate, and severe stenosis increased by a maximum of 3%, 13%, and 19%, respectively, when the downstream stenosis severity increased from mild to severe. The FFR of a stand-alone intermediate stenosis under a clinical setting is reported to be ∼0.72. In the presence of a downstream stenosis, the FFR values of the upstream intermediate stenosis were either within (0.77 for 80%–64% AS and 0.79 for 80%–80% AS) or above (0.88 for 80%–90% AS) the “gray” zone (0.75–0.80). This artificial increase in the FFR value within or above the “gray” zone for an upstream intermediate stenosis when in series with a clinically relevant downstream stenosis could lead to misinterpretation of functional stenosis severity. In contrast, a distinct range of CDP values was observed for each case of upstream stenosis (mild: 8–10; intermediate: 47–54; and severe: 130–155). The nonoverlapping range of CDP could better delineate the effect of the downstream stenosis from the upstream stenosis and allow for the accurate diagnosis of the functional severity of the upstream stenosis.
Geometric Effects on Stress Wave Propagation
Authors: Johnson K. L. , Trim M. W. , Horstemeyer M. F. , Lee N. , Williams L. N. , Liao J. , Rhee H. , Prabhu R.
Published: December 2013

The present study, through finite element simulations, shows the geometric effects of a bioinspired solid on pressure and impulse mitigation for an elastic, plastic, and viscoelastic material. Because of the bioinspired geometries, stress wave mitigation became apparent in a nonintuitive manner such that potential real-world applications in human protective gear designs are realizable. In nature, there are several toroidal designs that are employed for mitigating stress waves; examples include the hyoid bone on the back of a woodpecker's jaw that extends around the skull to its nose and a ram's horn. This study evaluates four different geometries with the same length and same initial cross-sectional diameter at the impact location in three-dimensional finite element analyses. The geometries in increasing complexity were the following: (1) a round cylinder, (2) a round cylinder that was tapered to a point, (3) a round cylinder that was spiraled in a two dimensional plane, and (4) a round cylinder that was tapered and spiraled in a two-dimensional plane. The results show that the tapered spiral geometry mitigated the greatest amount of pressure and impulse (approximately 98% mitigation) when compared to the cylinder regardless of material type (elastic, plastic, and viscoelastic) and regardless of input pressure signature. The specimen taper effectively mitigated the stress wave as a result of uniaxial deformational processes and an induced shear that arose from its geometry. Due to the decreasing cross-sectional area arising from the taper, the local uniaxial and shear stresses increased along the specimen length. The spiral induced even greater shear stresses that help mitigate the stress wave and also induced transverse displacements at the tip such that minimal wave reflections occurred. This phenomenon arose although only longitudinal waves were introduced as the initial boundary condition (BC). In nature, when shearing occurs within or between materials (friction), dissipation usually results helping the mitigation of the stress wave and is illustrated in this study with the taper and spiral geometries. The combined taper and spiral optimized stress wave mitigation in terms of the pressure and impulse; thus providing insight into the ram's horn design and woodpecker hyoid designs found in nature.
System for Observing Staff Promotion of Activity and Nutrition (SOSPAN)
Authors: Weaver R. Glenn , Beets Michael W. , Webster Collin , Huberty Jennifer
Published: December 2013

Background:

Frontline-staff are critical to achieving policies related to child physical activity and nutrition (PAaN) in out-of-school-time programs (OSTP). Recent policies call upon staff to demonstrate behaviors related to PAaN. Currently, no instrument exists to measure these behaviors. This study fills the gap between policy mandates and staff behaviors by describing the development of the System for Observing Staff Promotion of Activity and Nutrition (SOSPAN) in OSTP.

Methods:

SOSPAN items were aligned with existing OSTP policies. Reliability and validity data of SOSPAN were collected across 8 OSTP: 4 summer day camps and 4 afterschool programs. Validity of SOSPAN staff behaviors/management of PA was established using the percent of children active measured concurrently via direct observation.

Results:

A total of 6437 scans were performed. Interrater percent agreement ranged from 74%–99% across PAaN behaviors. Children’s activity was associated with staff facilitative behaviors/management, such as playing with the children and providing 2 or more activities for children to choose, while prohibitive behaviors/management, such as waiting in line were related to increased sedentary behavior. Staff nutrition behaviors were observed in less than 0.6% of scans.

Conclusion:

SOSPAN is a reliable and valid tool to assess staff behaviors/management of PAaN in OSTPs.
AC HOPPING CONDUCTION IN LIGHTLY DOPEDInPAT LOW TEMPERATURES
Authors: ABBOUDY S. , ALFARAMAWI K. , ABULNASR L.
Published: December 2013

In this paper, AC measurements on lightly doped n- InP were carried out as a function of temperature down to about 16 K and at frequencies in the range from 120 Hz up to 105Hz. The AC conductivity at low temperatures is of a single hopping nature following the universal law; σ(ω) ~ ωs, where the exponent, s, is temperature-independent. At relatively high temperatures (but still below the room temperature) the AC conductivity is of a multiple hopping nature.
On fractional differential systems of 3D Maxwell–Bloch type
Authors: Ivan Gheorghe
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we discuss the dynamical behavior of a family of fractional differential systems associated to 3D Maxwell–Bloch top system. The stability analysis of equilibrium states of the controlled fractional 3D Maxwell–Bloch top system is studied.
FUZZY C-MEANS IN FINDING SUBTYPES OF CANCERS IN CANCER DATABASE
Authors: KANNAN S. R. , RAMTHILAGAM S. , DEVI R. , HONG T. P.
Published: December 2013

Finding subtypes of cancer in breast cancer database is an extremely difficult task because of heavy noise by measurement error. Most of the recent clustering techniques for breast cancer database to achieve cancerous and noncancerous often weigh down the interpretability of the structure. Hence, this paper tries to find effective Fuzzy C-Means-based clustering techniques to identify the proper subtypes of cancer in breast cancer database. This paper obtains the objective function of effective Fuzzy C-Means clustering techniques by incorporating the kernel induced distance function, Renyi's entropy function, weighted distance measure and neighborhood terms-based spatial context. The effectiveness of the proposed methods are proved through the experimental works on Lung cancer database, IRIS dataset, Wine dataset, Checkerboard dataset, Time Series dataset and Yeast dataset. Finally, the proposed methods are implemented successfully to cluster the breast cancer database into cancerous and noncancerous. The clustering accuracy has been validated through error matrix and silhouette method.
THIANWAN'S ITERATION PROCEDURE FOR NONEXPANSIVE MAPPINGS IN CAT(0) SPACES
Authors: Ritika  , Rathee Savita
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we study the strong and Δ-convergence result for Thianwan's iteration procedure in the sense introduced by Laokul and Panyanak [Approximating fixed points of nonexpansive mappings in CAT(0) spaces, Int. J. Math. Anal.3(27) (2009) 1305–1315]. Our results are the extensions and generalizations of several recent results from the current literature.
Existence Results for a Coupled System of Nonlinear Fourth-Order Differential Equations
Authors: Samet Bessem
Published: December 2013

Sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence of solutions to a coupled system of nonlinear fourth-order differential equations.
Artificial Neural Network Model in Prediction of Meteorological Parameters during Premonsoon Thunderstorms
Authors: Litta A. J. , Mary Idicula Sumam , Mohanty U. C.
Published: December 2013

Forecasting thunderstorm is one of the most difficult tasks in weather prediction, due to their rather small spatial and temporal extension and the inherent nonlinearity of their dynamics and physics. Accurate forecasting of severe thunderstorms is critical for a large range of users in the community. In this paper, experiments are conducted with artificial neural network model to predict severe thunderstorms that occurred over Kolkata during May 3, 11, and 15, 2009, using thunderstorm affected meteorological parameters. The capabilities of six learning algorithms, namely, Step, Momentum, Conjugate Gradient, Quick Propagation, Levenberg-Marquardt, and Delta-Bar-Delta, in predicting thunderstorms and the usefulness for the advanced prediction were studied and their performances were evaluated by a number of statistical measures. The results indicate that Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm well predicted thunderstorm affected surface parameters and 1, 3, and 24 h advanced prediction models are able to predict hourly temperature and relative humidity adequately with sudden fall and rise during thunderstorm hour. This demonstrates its distinct capability and advantages in identifying meteorological time series comprising nonlinear characteristics. The developed model can be useful in decision making for meteorologists and others who work with real-time thunderstorm forecast.
Modeling Human Performance for Human–Robot Systems
Authors: Harriott Caroline E. , Adams Julie A.
Published: December 2013

Human performance plays an important role in system performance and is influenced by a wide set of internal, organizational, and environmental factors. Human–robot systems are being developed for a large number of domains, including in-home care, military deployments, emergency response, industrial robots, and therapeutic applications. Human performance modeling provides the opportunity to investigate multiple system prototypes and theories regarding human performance that can be further evaluated in human-in-the-loop experiments, to quickly adapt to rapidly changing robotic technology, and to represent human behavior in extreme conditions. Interacting with robots also influences human performance, and models of the human–robot system provide an avenue to investigate the impact on human performance that the human–robot teaming elicits. This chapter provides an overview of examples representing common methods for assessing human performance in human–robot systems. The topics are summarized in Table 3.2 and include a description of human performance modeling, a summary of commonly used human performance modeling tools, examples of human performance modeling with a focus on its application in human–robot systems, information regarding the validation of models, and guidelines for implementing human performance modeling techniques for robotics.
The genomic landscape of Waldenström macroglobulinemia is characterized by highly recurring MYD88 and WHIM-like CXCR4 mutations, and small somatic deletions associated with B-cell lymphomagenesis
Authors: Hunter Zachary R. , Xu Lian , Yang Guang , Zhou Yangsheng , Liu Xia , Cao Yang , Manning Robert J. , Tripsas Christina , Patterson Christopher J. , Sheehy Patricia , Treon Steven P.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

Highly recurring mutations are present in WM, including MYD88 L265P, warts, hypogammaglobulinemia, infection, and myelokathexis-syndrome–like mutations in CXCR4, and ARID1A. Small, previously undetected CNAs affecting B-cell regulatory genes are highly prevalent in WM.
Soliciting stakeholders’ views on the organization of child and adolescent mental health services: a system in trouble
Authors: Vandenbroeck Philippe , Dechenne Rachel , Becher Kim , Eyssen Maria , Van den Heede Koen
Published: December 2013

Background

Despite a high prevalence of mental health problems among children and adolescents Belgium, like many other Western countries, does not have a clear strategy for the organization of child and adolescent mental healthcare services (CAMHS).

Methods

This paper describes stakeholders’ views on the organization of CAMHS based on a qualitative study. Ten in-depth interviews with high profile stakeholders were complemented by roundtable discussions (n = 30).

Results

This diagnostic analysis illustrated that the system is in serious trouble characterized by fragmentation and compartmentalization.

Conclusion

The findings create a sense of urgency that should be used to initiate a system reform of the Belgian CAMHS system.
Characterization of FeCr and FeCoCr alloy coatings of carbon steels for marine environment applications
Authors: Antunes Fernando José , de Sá Brito Vinícius Ribeiro dos Santos , Bastos Ivan Napoleão , Costa Hector Reynaldo Meneses
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the adhesive strength results of FeCr and FeCoCr deposits produced by electric arc thermal spray process on carbon steel plates. Five chemical compositions were tested to give a large panel of possibility. Coatings were characterized by several methods to result in a performance screening. The main assessment of microstructural morphology was made by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical strength of coatings was evaluated by standard pull-off test. The corrosion resistance was analyzed in salt-spray test. The morphology of coatings exhibits characteristics of lamellar microstructures with incompletely melted particles together with a distribution of similarly oriented oxides. The adhesive strength of FeCoCr alloy coatings was higher amongst all studied conditions. All sealed conditions presented low corrosion in salt-spray exposure. Additionally, a new FeCoCr alloy was studied to reduce pores and microcracks that are frequently found in traditional FeCr and FeCrNi alloys. Based on the performed characterizations, the findings suggested that the FeCoCr deposition, with an epoxy sealing, is suitable to be used as an efficient coating of carbon steel in aggressive marine environments.
Continuous positive airway pressure and ventilation are more effective with a nasal mask than a full face mask in unconscious subjects: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Oto Jun , Li Qian , Kimball William R , Wang Jingping , Sabouri Abdolnabi S , Harrell Priscilla G , Kacmarek Robert M , Jiang Yandong
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Upper airway obstruction (UAO) is a major problem in unconscious subjects, making full face mask ventilation difficult. The mechanism of UAO in unconscious subjects shares many similarities with that of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially the hypotonic upper airway seen during rapid eye movement sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) via nasal mask is more effective at maintaining airway patency than a full face mask in patients with OSA. We hypothesized that CPAP via nasal mask and ventilation (nCPAP) would be more effective than full face mask CPAP and ventilation (FmCPAP) for unconscious subjects, and we tested our hypothesis during induction of general anesthesia for elective surgery.

Methods

In total, 73 adult subjects requiring general anesthesia were randomly assigned to one of four groups: nCPAP P0, nCPAP P5, FmCPAP P0, and FmCPAP P5, where P0 and P5 represent positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) 0 and 5 cm H2O applied prior to induction. After apnea, ventilation was initiated with pressure control ventilation at a peak inspiratory pressure over PEEP (PIP/PEEP) of 20/0, then 20/5, and finally 20/10 cm H2O, each applied for 1 min. At each pressure setting, expired tidal volume (Vte) was calculated by using a plethysmograph device.

Results

The rate of effective tidal volume (Vte > estimated anatomical dead space) was higher (87.9% vs. 21.9%; P<0.01) and the median Vte was larger (6.9 vs. 0 mL/kg; P<0.01) with nCPAP than with FmCPAP. Application of CPAP prior to induction of general anesthesia did not affect Vte in either approach (nCPAP pre- vs. post-; 7.9 vs. 5.8 mL/kg, P = 0.07) (FmCPAP pre- vs. post-; 0 vs. 0 mL/kg, P = 0.11).

Conclusions

nCPAP produced more effective tidal volume than FmCPAP in unconscious subjects.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01524614.
“Places Where I Forgot Things”
Authors: Waites Ian
Published: December 2013

George Shaw (1966–) is a British painter known for his meticulous depictions of Tile Hill in Coventry, a post–World War II council housing estate where Shaw lived from 1968 until the late 1980s. This article assesses Shaw's work as a product of a wider struggle between the idealistic principles of postwar council estate planning and the later negative social and aesthetic stereotyping of these estates. Next, it discusses how Shaw's paintings appear to cope with this struggle by “spectrally wavering” between a visualization of Tile Hill as remembered from his childhood and as it is in its present condition. Finally, Shaw's work is examined in relation to theories of autobiographical memory and childhood development to show how the postwar council estate had an indelible effect on the formation of Shaw's personal and cultural identity.