bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual Basics for the Private Education Development in Ukraine: Problems of the Strategy Choice
Authors: Холод  , Kholod B. , Задоя  , Zadoya A.
Published: March 2014

Changes in conceptual foundations of the private education development in Ukraine over the last 20 years are examined. Private education development stages are identified (stages of establishment, extensive development, intensive development). Basic principles for working out strategies of private educational institutions are substantiated. Private educational institutions Should prepare themselves to work under conditions where they are to sell services, available fat the government educational institutions for free. The price-oriented competition is irrelevant as a core operational strategy. The main emphasize should be put on ensuring the high quality of education, conducive to the graduates employment. Better chances for success would gain those universities which instead of competing for the established educational products offer innovative educational services. Offering educational products which foreign students can be interested in, is a rather promising option. Thus it is necessary to develop English-language educational programs, validated by European universities and enabling to get double degree certificates. Modern mass production is based on marketing laws and principles and therefore it is advisable to consider marketing principles as guidelines in education reorganizing and as a conceptual basis for education development. Introduction of educational certificates would also help to improve equality of education in Ukraine.
Strategic Loyalty Reward in Dynamic Price Discrimination
Authors: Caillaud Bernard , De Nijs Romain
Published: March 2014

In a dynamic model with overlapping generations of consumers, we study duopolistic competition when firms can price discriminate, at each period, between their previous customers and the consumers that they have never served. Long-term contracts are not enforceable. In (Markov-perfect) equilibrium, one firm charges higher prices to its past customers than to its new customers, as past customers have revealed their strong preferences for the firm; the other firm, however, rewards its previous customers by charging lower prices to them than to its new customers. This loyalty reward strategy comes from the interplay between the firms’ usual incentive to extract surplus from consumers with revealed strong preferences and their incentives to acquire information and to recognize their young loyal customers. The result also relies on the firms’ inability a priori to tell different generations apart. It is the outcome of the unique equilibrium of a simplified two-period (or T-period) version of the game and holds with forward-looking consumers who are impatient enough.
An Image of Who We Might Become: Vision Communication, Possible Selves, and Vision Pursuit
Authors: Stam Daan , Lord Robert G. , Knippenberg Daan van , Wisse Barbara
Published: March 2014

We propose a model of vision communication that emphasizes the mediating role of follower collective possible selves—that is, self-conception in terms of what the collective (team, organization) which one is a member of may become in the future that can be held by individuals but can also be shared by multiple individuals. Our model is the first to provide an integrative account of how vision communication may stimulate the pursuit of the vision by individuals and collectives, and it complements and extends prior research in three important ways. First, in contrast to an earlier emphasis on the role of individual perceptions of the current self, our model puts perceptions of the future self at the forefront. It captures how vision communication can invite social sharedness of these perceptions, thus doing justice to visions’ nature as images of a future for the collective. Second, in contrast to earlier work on vision communication focusing on general indicators of leadership effectiveness, our model puts what is arguably the most important outcome for vision communication center stage: vision pursuit, the followers’ actions aimed at making the vision reality. We argue that the creation of collective possible selves by followers is crucial for vision communication because collective possible selves explain how vision communication relates to vision pursuit. Third, our model also addresses aspects of vision communication that may facilitate the processes through which visions become internalized as possible selves, and it captures the processes through which such possible selves become shared among members of a collective and lead to collective vision pursuit.
The Role of Writing in Distributed Collaboration
Authors: Fayard Anne-Laure , Metiu Anca
Published: March 2014

Distributed collaborations face significant dialogical challenges: sharing knowledge, questioning ideas, and developing new solutions. These challenges are often associated with collaborations' reliance on written communication such as emails and documents, which are not seen as conducive to the rich dialogues necessary for effective collaboration. However, numerous successful distributed collaborations exist despite their sometimes exclusive reliance on written communication. Based on a qualitative study of distributed collaboration in two contexts—an organization effectively coordinating work across two continents and a pair of scientists working together to develop a new theory—we examine how writing supports dialogue, and thus collaboration, among distant partners. Our analysis of the correspondences exchanged in these two historical distributed collaborations identifies four mechanisms of writing—objectifying, contextualizing, specifying, and reflecting—and shows how they support dialogue and so address the dialogical challenges involved in distributed collaboration. These findings are particularly relevant in our era of technology-mediated communication where even collaborations in colocated settings rely extensively on written communication. Our findings advance our understanding of fundamental aspects of distributed collaboration and propose to rethink the value of written communication in enacting dialogue and supporting collaboration at a distance.
Markets, government policy, and China's timber supply
Authors: Zhang Han , Buongiorno Joseph
Published: March 2014

China's domestic demand and exports of wood products are rising rapidly compared to domestic supply. The determinants of timber supply in China were investigated with panel data from 25 provinces from 1999 to 2009. The results indicated that Chinaâs timber supply had responded to both market forces, reflected by timber prices largely determined by world demand and supply, and to government policies expressed by production quotas and the tenure reform on collective forestland. The price elasticity of Chinaâs timber supply was estimated at 0.31Â±0.12. The inelastic response of production to the quota (0.20Â±0.02) suggested that government had a limited, though significant, control of timber supply. Other things being equal, the land tenure reform increased timber supply by 18Â±8 percent, where and when it had been implemented.
Anforderungen an die Softwareevolution in der Automatisierung des Maschinen- und Anlagenbaus
Authors: Vogel-Heuser Birgit , Folmer Jens , Legat Christoph
Published: March 2014

Die Evolution von Software in der Automatisierungstechnik im
Bereich des Maschinen- und Anlagenbaus ist stark mit der Evolution
der Mechanik und Elektrotechnik verbunden. Die Herausforderungen
an das Software Engineering zur Unterstützung dieser oft 15 bis 20
Jahre dauernden Entwicklung werden erläutert. Zur Detaillierung
wurden im Rahmen des DFG SPP 1593 ,,Design for Future – Managed
Software Evolution“ Demonstrators Szenarien entwickelt, an denen
neun SPP-Projekte ihre Ansätze erproben und evaluieren werden.
The use of phrasal verbs by French-speaking EFL learners. A constructional and collostructional corpus-based approach
Authors: Gilquin Gaëtanelle
Published: March 2014

This paper investigates the use of phrasal verbs by French-speaking foreign learners of English, using spoken and written learner corpus data and comparing them against similar data representing native English. It adopts a constructional approach, which distinguishes between three levels of analysis: the higher level of the phrasal verb ‘superconstruction’, the intermediate level of the structural patterns [V Prt], [V Prt OBJ] and [V OBJ Prt], and the lower level of lexically specified phrasal verbs. The approach is also collostructional in that it seeks to bring to light lexical associations at the constructional level. The results show that the difficulties that learners are known to have with phrasal verbs are mainly situated at the level of the superconstruction; at the lower levels of analysis (especially the intermediate one), on the other hand, learners seem to have largely internalised the main features of the constructions. More generally, the paper highlights the benefits of combining Construction Grammar and learner corpus research to gain insights into the L2 construction.
Milk-Coagulating Extract Produced from Solanum aethiopicum Shum Fruits: Multivariate Techniques of Preparation, Thermal Stability and Effect on Milk Solids Recovery in Curd
Authors: Guiama Valentin Désiré , Beka Robert Germain , Ngah Esther , Libouga David Gabriel , Vercaigne-Marko Dominique , Mbofung Carl Moses
Published: March 2014

This study investigated a novel procedure of Solanum aethiopicum Shum fruits extract (SASFE) preparation using multivariate experimental designs as factorial and Box–Behnken. The thermal stability of optimized extract as well as its influence on the milk solids in curd was determined. The results showed that extraction time, fruit maturity and pH did not affect significantly SASFE preparation, while the amount of fruits, extraction temperature and NaCl concentration of extractant had a significant effect (p < 0.05). The greatest coagulant index was obtained under the following conditions: 12.5% of fruits, 25°C of extraction temperature and 4% NaCl concentration of extractant. It was thermosensitive and exhibited optimum temperature at 50°C. There was no statistical difference between SASFE and calf rennet in terms of solids yield in curd, estimated yield and actual yield. On the basis of these results, SASFE can be used as a vegetable alternative to calf rennet.
Prediction of preeclampsia by placental protein 13 and background risk factors and its prevention by aspirin
Authors: Meiri Hamutal , Sammar Marei , Herzog Ayelet , Grimpel Yael-Inna , Fihaman Galina , Cohen Aliza , Kivity Vered , Sharabi-Nov Adi , Gonen Ron
Published: March 2014

Aim: Evaluation of placental protein 13 (PP13) and risk factors (RFs) as markers for predicting preeclampsia (PE) and use of aspirin for PE prevention.

Materials and methods: First-trimester pregnancy screening was based on having PP13 level ≤0.4 multiple of the median (MoM) and/or at least one major risk factor (RF) for PE. Management was by routine care or combined with daily treatment with 75 mg aspirin between 14 and 35 weeks of gestation.

Results: Of 820 deliveries, 63 women developed PE (7.7%). Median PP13 levels was 0.2MoM in the PE group compared with 0.83MoM among unaffected and 1.0MoM in unaffected not treated with aspirin (P<0.0001). Low PP13 was a better predictor for PE versus major RFs, particularly for young nuliparous. Combining low PP13 with RFs increased prediction accuracy. Mean arterial pressure (not included in the initial prediction), could add to prediction accuracy when combined with low PP13 and RFs. PE prevention by aspirin was most effective when the risk was determined by low PP13 alone, less effective for combining low PP13 with RFs, and ineffective when determined by RFs alone.

Conclusion: When PE risk is determined by low first trimester PP13 or by combined low PP13 and RFs, prevention with aspirin is warranted.
Surface Characterization of Electron Irradiated Polymer Brushes
Authors: Burkert Sina , Simon Frank , Pleul Dieter , Gohs Uwe , Stamm Manfred , Uhlmann Petra
Published: March 2014

Polymer brushes are representing a versatile tool to adjust and control
surface phenomena like wetting, adsorption and adhesion. Moreover, certain
complementary surface modification methods can support improving their
intended applications. A promising strategy is the combination of the
grafting-to method under initiator and solvent free conditions with an
additional electron-beam irradiation step which can lead to polymer brushes
with high-selective properties.

The experiments were focused on the investigation of the surface reactions
taking place during the dose-dependent irradiation of the thin polymer brush
layers with the aim to modify their properties. A comprehensive and detailed
study of the initiated functionalization reactions associated with their
influence on the alteration of surface properties of different homo and
binary polymer brush layers was performed using sensitive surface
characterization techniques such as XPS, contact angle measurements, and
ellipsometry.
Effects of Radiation on Nuclear Materials: 26th Volume
Authors: Kirk Mark , Lucon Enrico
Published: March 2014

Description

Featuring 10 symposium papers presented in Indianapolis, IN in June 2013. These papers have a rich history having evolved from five decades of tradition, from a symposium that has provided an international forum for the presentation of current research results, applications studies, and open discussion.

Papers on radiation effects in reactor pressure vessel steels dominated The Effects of Radiation on Nuclear Materials symposium. More than half of the contributions to these papers are from international, expert authors.

While a long-standing topic of research and practical interest to the nuclear engineering community, this topic retains its currency due the irreplaceability of the vessel and the critical role vessel safety calculations play in establishing the licensable life of the plant.
Characterization of Precipitates in 316 Stainless Steel Neutron-Irradiated at ∼390°C by the Combination of CDF-TEM, EF-TEM, and HR-TEM
Authors: Renault-Laborne Alexandra , Malaplate Joël , Pokor Cédric , Tanguy Benoît
Published: March 2014

In this work, the combination of Conventional Dark Field (CDF), Energy Filtered (EF), and High Resolution (HR) Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) enabled fine scale characterization of the precipitate microstructures in type 316 Stainless Steel (SS). This steel was irradiated beforehand in the Phénix fast reactor at a temperature of about 390°C and up to a dose of 39 dpa. Four types of precipitates were identified, namely M6C (η), M23C6 (τ), Ni3Si (γ′), and M6Ni17Si7 (G). The results emphasize the importance of establishing the correlation between the data obtained by various analysis methods, especially with the presence of nanoscale precipitates of different phases. Indeed, the electron diffraction patterns taken at the low index zone axis from different grains of the matrix showed that the low total diffracting volume of these precipitates makes their reflections relatively weak and the reflections arising from the different phases and variants are difficult to index. These weak and numerous reflections prevent full characterization of the different types of precipitates using only the technique of indexing of diffraction pattern. CDF-TEM enabled imaging of the morphology and the spatial distribution of different precipitates and determination of their density and size. Unlike the technique of energy dispersive spectroscopy of X-ray photons, EF-TEM is insensitive to the radioactivity of 316 SS. It can be routinely used to image the relative proportion of chemical species present in different phases and their relative spatial distribution around cavities also induced by irradiation. In spite of some disturbances in the lattice of precipitates related with this radiation, HR-TEM confirms the value of their lattice parameters given by electron diffraction patterns and the association of some precipitates with cavities observed by means of Conventional Bright Field-TEM and EF-TEM.
Opposite effects of 17-β estradiol and testosterone on mitochondrial biogenesis and adiponectin synthesis in white adipocytes
Authors: Capllonch-Amer Gabriela , Lladó Isabel , Proenza Ana M , García-Palmer Francisco J , Gianotti Magdalena
Published: March 2014

Sexual dimorphism has been found in both mitochondrial functionality and adiponectin expression in white adipose tissue, with female rats presenting more functional mitochondria than males and greater adiponectin expression. However, little is known about the role of sex hormones in this dimorphism. The aim was to elucidate the role of sex hormones in mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and in adiponectin synthesis in white adipocytes, and also to provide new evidence of the link between these processes. 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were differentiated and treated either with 17-β estradiol (E2; 10 nM), progesterone (Pg), testosterone (1 μM both), or a combination of Pg or testosterone with flutamide (FLT; 10 μM) or E2(1 μM). The markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and adiponectin expression were analyzed. E2induced mitochondrial proliferation and differentiation in 3T3-L1, although testosterone showed opposite effects. Pg treatment stimulated proliferation but impaired differentiation. In concerns mitochondrial dynamics, these hormones promoted fusion over fission. FLT treatment indicated that Pg elicits its effects on mitochondrial dynamics through the androgen receptor. E2coadministration with testosterone or Pg reversed its effects. In conclusion, our results show that E2induces stimulation of mitochondrial biogenesis in white adipocytesin vitro, especially in situations that imply an impairment of mitochondrial function, whereas testosterone would have opposite effects. Moreover, testosterone and Pg alter mitochondrial dynamics by promoting fusion over fission, while E2stimulates both processes. All these alterations run in parallel with changes in adiponectin expression, thus suggesting the existence of a link between mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics and adiponectin synthesis in white adipocytes.
Descriptive analysis of and overall survival after surgical treatment of lung metastases
Authors: Poletti Giana Balestro , Toro Ivan Felizardo Contrera , Alves Thais Ferreira , Miranda Eliana Cristina Martins , Seabra José Cláudio Teixeira , Mussi Ricardo Kalaf
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To describe demographic characteristics, surgical results, postoperative complications, and overall survival rates in surgically treated patients with lung metastases.METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of 119 patients who underwent a total of 154 lung metastasis resections between 1997 and 2011.RESULTS: Among the 119 patients, 68 (57.1%) were male and 108 (90.8%) were White. The median age was 52 years (range, 15-75 years). In this sample, 63 patients (52.9%) presented with comorbidities, the most common being systemic arterial hypertension (69.8%) and diabetes (19.0%). Primary colorectal tumors (47.9%) and musculoskeletal tumors (21.8%) were the main sites of origin of the metastases. Approximately 24% of the patients underwent more than one resection of the lesions, and 71% had adjuvant treatment prior to metastasectomy. The rate of lung metastasis recurrence was 19.3%, and the median disease-free interval was 23 months. The main surgical access used was thoracotomy (78%), and the most common approach was wedge resection with segmentectomy (51%). The rate of postoperative complications was 22%, and perioperative mortality was 1.9%. The overall survival rates at 12, 36, 60, and 120 months were 96%, 77%, 56%, and 39%, respectively. A Cox analysis confirmed that complications within the first 30 postoperative days were associated with poor prognosis (hazard ratio = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.09-3.06; p = 0.02).CONCLUSIONS: Surgical treatment of lung metastases is safe and effective, with good overall survival, especially in patients with fewer metastases.
Levels of physical activity and predictors of mortality in COPD
Authors: Nyssen Samantha Maria , Santos Júlia Gianjoppe dos , Barusso Marina Sallum , Oliveira Junior Antônio Delfino de , Lorenzo Valéria Amorim Pires Di , Jamami Mauricio
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To compare the Body mass index, airway Obstruction, Dyspnea, andExercise capacity (BODE) index scores and its individual components between COPD patients with and without severe physical inactivity, as well as to correlate the number of steps/day with scores of physical activity questionnaires, age, and the BODE index (including its components).METHODS: We included 30 patients, who were evaluated for body composition, pulmonary function (FEV1), perception of dyspnea (modified Medical Research Council scale), and exercise capacity (six-minute walk distance [6MWD]). The patients also completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), short version, and the modified Baecke questionnaire (mBQ). The level of physical activity was assessed by the number of steps/day (as determined by pedometer), using the cut-off of 4,580 steps/day to form two groups: no severe physical inactivity (SPI−) and severe physical inactivity (SPI+). We used the Mann-Whitney test or t-test, as well as Pearson's or Spearman's correlation tests, in the statistical analysis.RESULTS: In comparison with the SPI− group, the SPI+ group showed more advanced age, higher mBQ scores (leisure domain), lower 6MWD (in m and % of predicted), and lower IPAQ scores (metabolic equivalent-walk/week domain and total). The IPAQ scores showed weak correlations with steps/day (r = 0.399), age (r = −0.459), and 6MWD-in m (r = 0.446) and in % of predicted (r = 0.422).CONCLUSIONS: In our sample, the cut-off of 4,580 steps/day was not sensitive enough to identify differences between the groups when compared with the predictors of mortality. The IPAQ, short version score correlated with steps/day.
Barium swallow study in routine clinical practice: a prospective study in patients with chronic cough
Authors: Nin Carlos Shuler , Marchiori Edson , Irion Klaus Loureiro , Paludo Artur de Oliveira , Alves Giordano Rafael Tronco , Hochhegger Daniela Reis , Hochhegger Bruno
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To assess the routine use of barium swallow study in patients with chronic cough.METHODS: Between October of 2011 and March of 2012, 95 consecutive patients submitted to chest X-ray due to chronic cough (duration > 8 weeks) were included in the study. For study purposes, additional images were obtained immediately after the oral administration of 5 mL of a 5% barium sulfate suspension. Two radiologists systematically evaluated all of the images in order to identify any pathological changes. Fisher's exact test and the chi-square test for categorical data were used in the comparisons.RESULTS: The images taken immediately after barium swallow revealed significant pathological conditions that were potentially related to chronic cough in 12 (12.6%) of the 95 patients. These conditions, which included diaphragmatic hiatal hernia, esophageal neoplasm, achalasia, esophageal diverticulum, and abnormal esophageal dilatation, were not detected on the images taken without contrast. After appropriate treatment, the symptoms disappeared in 11 (91.6%) of the patients, whereas the treatment was ineffective in 1 (8.4%). We observed no complications related to barium swallow, such as contrast aspiration.CONCLUSIONS: Barium swallow improved the detection of significant radiographic findings related to chronic cough in 11.5% of patients. These initial findings suggest that the routine use of barium swallow can significantly increase the sensitivity of chest X-rays in the detection of chronic cough-related etiologies.
Immunohistochemical and morphometric evaluation of COX 1 and COX-2 in the remodeled lung in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and systemic sclerosis
Authors: Parra Edwin Roger , Lin Flavia , Martins Vanessa , Rangel Maristela Peres , Capelozzi Vera Luiza
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To study the expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in the remodeled lung in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients, correlating that expression with patient survival.METHODS: We examined open lung biopsy specimens from 24 SSc patients and 30 IPF patients, using normal lung tissue as a control. The histological patterns included fibrotic nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (NSIP) in SSc patients and usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) in IPF patients. We used immunohistochemistry and histomorphometry to evaluate the expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in alveolar septa, vessels, and bronchioles. We then correlated that expression with pulmonary function test results and evaluated its impact on patient survival.RESULTS: The expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in alveolar septa was significantly higher in IPF-UIP and SSc-NSIP lung tissue than in the control tissue. No difference was found between IPF-UIP and SSc-NSIP tissue regarding COX-1 and COX-2 expression. Multivariate analysis based on the Cox regression model showed that the factors associated with a low risk of death were younger age, high DLCO/alveolar volume, IPF, and high COX-1 expression in alveolar septa, whereas those associated with a high risk of death were advanced age, low DLCO/alveolar volume, SSc (with NSIP), and low COX-1 expression in alveolar septa.CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that strategies aimed at preventing low COX-1 synthesis will have a greater impact on SSc, whereas those aimed at preventing high COX-2 synthesis will have a greater impact on IPF. However, prospective randomized clinical trials are needed in order to confirm that.
CT densitovolumetry in children with obliterative bronchiolitis: correlation with clinical scores and pulmonary function test results
Authors: Mocelin Helena , Bueno Gilberto , Irion Klaus , Marchiori Edson , Sarria Edgar , Watte Guilherme , Hochhegger Bruno
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether air trapping (expressed as the percentage of air trapping relative to total lung volume [AT%]) correlates with clinical and functional parameters in children with obliterative bronchiolitis (OB).METHODS: CT scans of 19 children with OB were post-processed for AT% quantification with the use of a fixed threshold of −950 HU (AT%950) and of thresholds selected with the aid of density masks (AT%DM). Patients were divided into three groups by AT% severity. We examined AT% correlations with oxygen saturation (SO2) at rest, six-minute walk distance (6MWD), minimum SO2 during the six-minute walk test (6MWT_SO2), FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and clinical parameters.RESULTS: The 6MWD was longer in the patients with larger normal lung volumes (r = 0.53). We found that AT%950 showed significant correlations (before and after the exclusion of outliers, respectively) with the clinical score (r = 0.72; 0.80), FVC (r = 0.24; 0.59), FEV1 (r = −0.58; −0.67), and FEV1/FVC (r = −0.53; r = −0.62), as did AT%DM with the clinical score (r = 0.58; r = 0.63), SO2 at rest (r = −0.40; r = −0.61), 6MWT_SO2 (r = −0.24; r = −0.55), FVC (r = −0.44; r = −0.80), FEV1 (r = −0.65; r = −0.71), and FEV1/FVC (r = −0.41; r = −0.52).CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that AT% correlates significantly with clinical scores and pulmonary function test results in children with OB.
Assessment of regional lung ventilation by electrical impedance tomography in a patient with unilateral bronchial stenosis and a history of tuberculosis
Authors: Marinho Liégina Silveira , Sousa Nathalia Parente de , Barros Carlos Augusto Barbosa da Silveira , Matias Marcelo Silveira , Monteiro Luana Torres , Beraldo Marcelo do Amaral , Costa Eduardo Leite Vieira , Amato Marcelo Britto Passos , Holanda Marcelo Alcantara
Published: March 2014

Bronchial stenosis can impair regional lung ventilation by causing abnormal, asymmetric airflow limitation. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is an imaging technique that allows the assessment of regional lung ventilation and therefore complements the functional assessment of the lungs. We report the case of a patient with left unilateral bronchial stenosis and a history of tuberculosis, in whom regional lung ventilation was assessed by EIT. The EIT results were compared with those obtained by ventilation/perfusion radionuclide imaging. The patient was using nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Therefore, we studied the effects of postural changes and of the use of nasal CPAP. The EIT revealed heterogeneous distribution of regional lung ventilation, the ventilation being higher in the right lung, and this distribution was influenced by postural changes and CPAP use. The EIT assessment of regional lung ventilation produced results similar to those obtained with the radionuclide imaging technique and had the advantage of providing a dynamic evaluation without radiation exposure.
Reduction of differential column shortening by placing additional reinforcement
Authors: Kim Hansoo , Shin Seunghak
Published: March 2014

A method to reduce differential column shortening in reinforced concrete (RC) tall buildings by placing additional reinforcement at the columns is proposed. The axial stiffness of columns with greater shortening than adjacent columns connected through horizontal members should be increased to reduce differential column shortening. The axial stiffness of the columns can be effectively increased by placing additional reinforcement at the columns. Factors that affect the efficiency of reinforcement at reducing column shortening were investigated through single-column analysis, sensitivity analysis of a multi-storey column line and a comparison of three distribution schemes. A step-by-step method for the long-term analysis of RC structures is applied for the exact column shortening for any elapsed time. Based on the results, differential column shortening can be reduced in the design stage by placing additional reinforcement at the columns.
Relationships of Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Meditation Experience With Shame-Proneness
Authors: Woods Hannah , Proeve Michael
Published: March 2014

The tendency to experience shame or guilt is associated differentially with anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, with shame being associated with greater psychopathology. Recent interventions designed to decrease shame emphasize mindfulness or self-compassion. This study investigated correlational relationships of shame-proneness and guilt-proneness with mindfulness and with self-compassion in undergraduate participants. Shame-proneness was strongly negatively correlated with all facets of mindfulness and with self-compassion, whereas guilt-proneness was weakly positively correlated with self-compassion and some facets of mindfulness. Hierarchical regression analysis showed that shame-proneness was predicted by self-compassion but not by mindfulness. More frequent meditation was associated with greater mindfulness and self-compassion and lower shame-proneness but not guilt-proneness. Limitations of the study and implications of the findings for interventions to reduce shame are discussed.
Increasing Positive Outlook Partially Mediates the Effect of Empirically Supported Treatments on Depression Symptoms Among Adolescents
Authors: Jacobs Rachel H. , Becker Sara J. , Curry John F. , Silva Susan G. , Ginsburg Golda S. , Henry David B. , Reinecke Mark A.
Published: March 2014

Among adolescents there is evidence that cognitive change partially mediates the effect of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on depression outcome. However, prior studies have been limited by small samples, narrow measures of cognition, and failure to compare cognitive change following CBT to cognitive change following antidepressant medication. This study examined whether change in four cognitive constructs (cognitive distortions, cognitive avoidance, positive outlook, and solution-focused thinking) mediated change in depression severity in a sample of 291 adolescents who participated in the Treatment for Adolescents with Depression Study (TADS). TADS assessed the effects of CBT, fluoxetine, and their combination on depression severity. All three treatments were associated with change in the cognitive constructs and combination treatment produced the greatest change. Furthermore, change in the cognitive constructs partially mediated change in depression severity within all three treatments. Results implicated positive outlook as the construct most associated with change in depression severity over 36 weeks.
Conjugated Estrogen/Bazedoxifene Tablets for the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Vasomotor Symptoms Associated with Menopause
Authors: Mirkin Sebastian , Komm Barry , Pickar James H
Published: March 2014

Conjugated estrogen/bazedoxifene (CE/BZA) therapy represents a new, progestin-free treatment in the management of postmenopausal health. CE/BZA pairs CE with the selective estrogen receptor modulator, BZA. The rationale for the development of CE/BZA was that BZA, acting primarily as a selective estrogen receptor degrader in uterine and breast tissue, would sufficiently inhibit the proliferative effects of CE on the endometrium. The absence of a progestin would reduce the incidence of uterine bleeding, breast pain and increased breast density associated with progestin-containing hormone therapy. CE/BZA has been evaluated in five multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, and active-controlled Phase III trials known as the SMART trials. CE/BZA has been shown to maintain the established benefits of estrogen therapy for treatment of vasomotor symptoms and prevention of a loss in bone mineral density (bone mass), while minimizing certain estrogenic effects, particularly in the uterine endometrium and breast.
Parents' competence and social skills in siblings of disabled children
Authors: Cuzzocrea Francesca , Larcan Rosalba , Costa Sebastiano , Gazzano Chiara
Published: March 2014

In this study we aimed to determine whether or not the siblings of children with disabilities have more emotional (stress levels) and relational (parental education levels, family functioning levels, relational and behavioral problems of children while at school), problems than do their
peers. We selected 32 couples (16 with and 16 without children with low intellectual ability) and administered self-report questionnaires. Results confirmed the association between family characteristics and the emotional and relational difficulties of siblings of children with disabilities.
In our analysis of the relational experience of siblings, a significant difference emerged in comparison to their peers in families with nondisabled children.
Research on picosecond laser refurbishing method for reconditioning ceramic orthodontic brackets
Authors: Ling Chen , Ji Lingfei , Wu Yan , Li Jian , Yan Yinzhou , Bao Yong , Yang Kai
Published: March 2014

Laser refurbishment of hard, brittle ceramic orthodontic brackets using picosecond (ps) lasers is studied. High cleaning quality without residual adhesive on the bracket surface and with damage-free base material is achieved using a ps laser at 8.5 μJ/cm2 (average power 60 W, 3 mm spot size) for 6 s. A black spot is observed at the laser incidence position on the cleaned surface, which is carbon and silicon residue from resin thermal decomposition. No changes in strength occurred in the cleaned samples. Diffusion of the stress vibration caused by elastic waves generated by ultrashort high-frequency pulses is found to be the main cleaning mechanism.
Equity-Oriented Reform Amid Standards-Based Accountability
Authors: Trujillo Tina M. , Woulfin Sarah L.
Published: March 2014

Intermediary organizations increasingly provide support for schools serving marginalized students. Some attribute this trend to growing ideological support for market-based strategies to further the public good. This article investigates one intermediary that marketed equity-oriented instructional goals for schools serving high numbers of students of color and English Learners. Drawing on critical policy studies and political science, we analyze its behavior amid a high-stakes accountability environment, its reasons for adopting certain reforms, and the consequences for instruction. We use qualitative comparative analysis to show how policy forces shaped reforms and content in its schools, but not pedagogy specific to students of color or English Learners. We discuss the implications for the research on intermediaries and the democratic control of public education.
The rising psoas sign: an analysis of preoperative imaging characteristics of aborted minimally invasive lateral interbody fusions at L4–5
Authors: Voyadzis Jean-Marc , Felbaum Daniel , Rhee Jay
Published: March 2014

Minimally invasive lateral interbody fusion for the treatment of degenerative disc disease, spondylolisthesis, or scoliosis is becoming increasingly popular. The approach at L4–5 carries the highest risk of nerve injury given the proximity of the lumbar plexus and femoral nerve. The authors present 3 cases that were aborted during the approach because of pervasive electromyography responses throughout the L4–5 disc space. Preoperative imaging characteristics of psoas muscle anatomy in all 3 cases are analyzed and discussed. In all cases, the psoas muscle on axial views was rising away from the vertebral column as opposed to its typical location lateral to it. Preoperative evaluation of psoas muscle anatomy is important. A rising psoas muscle at L4–5 on axial imaging may complicate a lateral approach.
Five-year clinical and radiological results of combined anteroposterior stabilization of thoracolumbar fractures
Authors: Schnake Klaus John , Stavridis Stavros I. , Kandziora Frank
Published: March 2014

Object

Despite promising early clinical results, the long-term outcome of the use of expandable titanium cages to reconstruct the anterior column after traumatic burst fractures is still unknown. The purpose of this prospective study was to assess the clinical and radiological outcomes of the use of expandable titanium cages 5 years postoperatively.

Methods

Eighty patients with traumatic thoracolumbar burst fractures (T4–L5) underwent posterior stabilization followed by anterior corpectomy and reconstruction using expandable titanium cages with or without additional anterior plating. After 5 years, fusion was evaluated by means of plain radiographs and CT scans, and the patients' scores on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), their neurological status, and clinical results were assessed.

Results

Forty-five (56%) of the 80 patients could be examined after 5 years. There was a relatively high rate of complications related to thoracotomy (26%), but there were no complications directly related to the cages. Revision surgery was required in 1 case. The average postoperative loss of correction was only 2.4° due to minimal subsidence of the cages. No cage showed a radiolucent line or instability in flexion-extension views. Bony fusion, as assessed by CT scan, was achieved in 41 patients (91%). On clinical examination, 96% of all patients were ambulatory and showed minimal restriction of spinal range of motion; 71% did not need analgesic medication at all; and 67% were able to work. The average ODI score was 12. Thirty-one percent of patients complained of some kind of anterior approach–related complications.

Conclusions

Combined anteroposterior stabilization of thoracolumbar burst fractures with expandable titanium cages is a relative safe procedure with satisfactory radiological and clinical long-term outcome. High fusion rates can be achieved, with only minor loss of correction, typically occurring in the 1st year. However, open thoracotomy carries the risks of additional complications and development of post-thoracotomy syndrome.
Early experience with stent retrievers and comparison with previous-generation mechanical thrombectomy devices for acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Deshaies Eric M. , Singla Amit , Villwock Mark R. , Padalino David J. , Sharma Sameer , Swarnkar Amar
Published: March 2014

Object

There is limited information regarding patient outcomes following interventions for stroke during the window for endovascular therapy. Studies have suggested that recently approved stent retrievers are safer and more effective than earlier-generation thrombectomy devices. The authors compared cases in which the Solitaire-FR device was used to those in which a MERCI or Penumbra device was used.

Methods

This study is a single-center retrospective review of 102 consecutive cases of acute stroke in which patients were treated with mechanical thrombectomy devices between 2007 and 2013. Multivariate models, adjusted for confounding factors, were used to investigate functional independence (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2, and successful reperfusion (thrombolysis in cerebral infarction [TICI] score ≥ 2b).

Results

Thrombectomy device had a significant impact on functional independence (mRS score ≤ 2) at discharge from the hospital (p = 0.040). Solitaire-FR treatment resulted in significantly more patients being discharged as functionally independent in comparison with MERCI treatment (p = 0.016). A multivariate model found the use of Solitaire-FR to improve the odds of good clinical outcome in comparison with prior-generation devices (OR 6.283, 95% CI 1.785–22.119, p = 0.004). Additionally, the use of Solitaire-FR significantly increased the odds of successful reperfusion (OR 3.247, 95% CI 1.160–9.090, p = 0.025).

Conclusions

The stent retriever Solitaire-FR significantly improved the odds of functional independence and successful revascularization of the arterial tree. New interventional technology for stroke continues to mature, but randomized trials are needed to establish the actual benefit to specific patient populations.
Benefits and Challenges Associated with the Development of Forest-Based Bioenergy Projects in India: Results from an Expert Survey
Authors: Halder Pradipta , Arevalo Javier , Tahvanainen Liisa , Pelkonen Paavo
Published: March 2014

Development of energy systems, based on forest biomass, is a challenging issue in India. The study investigated perceptions of fifty-five Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers in relation to the potential benefits and challenges associated with the development of forest-based bioenergy (FBE) projects in India when they participated in two training programs in Finland during 2010. They generally agreed that development of FBE projects could have beneficial impacts on job creation, income generation, rural development, and restoring ecological degradation. They perceived lack of public acceptance and political support, impacts on biodiversity, and lack of technologies and infrastructure as the considerable challenges to the development of FBE projects in India. The study could provide some policy directions towards developing the FBE sector in India. It recommends conducting further studies to include a larger group of experts and other stakeholders to investigate the broader societal perceptions of FBE projects in India. In addition, the study also recommends building the capacity of the IFS officers so that they can play a key role from the government side for developing the FBE sector in the country.
Investigation of the Cooling and Thermal-Measuring System of a Compound-Structure Permanent-Magnet Synchronous Machine
Authors: Bai Jingang , Liu Yong , Sui Yi , Tong Chengde , Zhao Quanbin , Zhang Jiawei
Published: March 2014

The compound-structure permanent-magnet synchronous machine (CS-PMSM) is a power-split device which can enable the internal combustion engine (ICE) to operate at optimum efficiency during all driving conditions by controlling its torque and speed. However, the CS-PMSM has more serious temperature rise and heat dissipation problems than conventional permanent-magnet (PM) machines, especially when the CS-PMSM is running at low speed and under full load conditions. As the thermal resistance of double-layer air gaps is quite big, the hot spot proves to be in the inner winding rotor. To ensure the safe operation of the CS-PMSM, the use of forced-air and water cooling in the inner winding rotor are investigated. The study shows that the water cooling can provide a better cooling effect, but require a complicated mechanical structure. Considering the complexity of the high efficiency cooling system, a real-time temperature monitoring method is proposed and a temperature measuring system which can accurately measure the real-time temperature of multiple key points in the machine is developed to promptly adjust the operating and cooling conditions based on the measured temperature results. Finally, the temperature rise experiment of the CS-PMSM prototype is done and the simulation results are partly validated by the experimental data.
Cretaceous-Paleogene Dinoflagellate Biostratigraphy and the Age of the Clayton Formation, Southeastern Missouri, USA
Authors: Dastas Natalie , Chamberlain John , Garb Matthew
Published: March 2014

Sedimentary deposits in Stoddard County, southeastern Missouri, reveal a K-Pg transition sequence represented by the uppermost Maastrichtian Owl Creek Formation and the Paleocene Clayton Formation. The Clayton Formation is characterized by a basal fossiliferous coquinite that contains reworked late Maastrichtian macrofossils. Dinoflagellate biostratigraphy is used to determine the age of the coquinite layer and specifically whether or not it is an end-K tsunamite deposit resulting from the Chicxulub impact event. Results indicate a mixed assemblage of late Maastrichtian and early Danian dinocysts within the basal coquinite of the Clayton Formation. Maastrichtian dinocyst taxa identified are Riculacysta amplexa, Pierceites pentagonus, Phelodinium tricuspe and Dinogymnium sp. and dinocysts utilized as global indicators of the basal Danian, also present in the coquinite, consist of Senoniasphaera inornata, Carpatella cornuta, Damassadinium californicum, and Lanternosphaeridium reinhardtii. A gray mud occurring above the coquinite in the middle of the Clayton Formation contains the mid-Danian dinoflagellate Senegalinium iterlaaense. Collectively, these data suggest that the coquinite was deposited well after the K-Pg event but before the middle Danian. The mixed assemblage of Late Cretaceous and Paleocene dinocysts preserved in the coquinite weakens the hypothesis that it is an end-K tsunamite deposit and suggests instead that it may result from a long-term transgressive lag. We also extend the stratigraphic range of the Paleocene Senegalinium simplex downward into the uppermost Maastrichtian.
Development and Validation of a Questionnaire to Measure Serious and Common Quality of Life Issues for Patients Experiencing Small Bowel Obstructions
Authors: Rice Amanda , Wakefield Leslie , Patterson Kimberley , D'Avy Reed Evette , Wurn Belinda , Klingenberg Bernhard , King, III C. , Wurn Lawrence
Published: March 2014

A validated questionnaire to assess the impact of small bowel obstructions (SBO) on patients’ quality of life was developed and validated. The questionnaire included measurements for the impact on the patients’ quality of life in respect to diet, pain, gastrointestinal symptoms and daily life. The questionnaire was validated using 149 normal subjects. Chronbach alpha was 0.86. Test retest reliability was evaluated with 72 normal subjects, the correlation coefficient was 0.93. Discriminate validity was determined to be significant using the normal subject questionnaires and 10 questionnaires from subjects with recurrent SBO. Normative and level of impact for each measured domain were established using one standard deviation from the mean in the normal population and clinical relevance. This questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument to measure the impact of SBO on a patient’s quality of life related to recurrent SBOs; therefore establishing a mechanism to monitor and quantify changes in quality of life over time.