bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of excessive vacancies in transgranular stress corrosion cracking of pure copper
Authors: Aaltonen Pertti , Yagodzinskyy Yuriy , Saukkonen Tapio , Kilpeläinen Simo , Tuomisto Filip , Hänninen Hannu
Published: September 2015

The role of the excessive metal vacancy generation in transgranular stress corrosion cracking (TGSCC) of pure copper was studied in relation to crack initiation and growth mechanisms. Electrochemically polarized specimens were strained at room temperature in 0.3 m NaNO2 solution. Cation vacancy redistribution under applied anodic polarization took place at the p-n junction of the duplex Cu2O oxide film, resulting in cation vacancy transport in the p-type layer of the oxide to the metal substrate interface and in excessive metal vacancy accumulation in the metal substrate. The rapid initiation of TGSCC at room temperature in the cold-worked oxygen-free high-conductivity copper samples occurred during slow strain rate tests under anodic polarization in 0.3 m NaNO2 solution. The duplex Cu2O oxide film structure formed by cathodic deposition, before applying the anodic polarization, was characterized with X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy/electron backscatter diffraction/energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The redistribution of cation vacancies in the p-type oxide phase due to the anodic polarization and the metal vacancy accumulation in the copper substrate interface was studied by using positron annihilation spectroscopy.
U.S. Naval Aviation: operational airframe experience with combined environmental and mechanical loading
Authors: Nickerson William C.
Published: September 2015

Airframe structure is the core capability for all aviation operations, whether fixed or rotary wing, manned or unmanned, or ship-based or shore-based. Airframe materials are the underlying enabling technology for all air vehicle structures. Airframe maintainability is the primary availability and readiness driver for U.S. Naval Aviation. Traditionally, airframe structures are designed for immediate mechanical performance and loads-only structural response, and the degradation of properties over the life cycle and sustainment during operations are often an afterthought. Galvanic management and corrosion-resistant materials selection have never been done systematically as part of the structural analysis and lifing process. Additionally, the lack of true failure mechanism understanding of load path effects, crack initiation and growth behaviors, and nonuniform material response has often resulted in underdesign/overdesign, limits on new material insertion, costly life extension programs, and unexpected early in-service failures. Advances in structural and materials science for airframes offer significant opportunity for improvements in availability, readiness, reduced sustainment requirements, fatigue life enhancement, reduced weight and improved range, and enhanced design tools and standard practices. These science and technology advances would be realized in large part through the engineering and operational communities by facilitating mission profile-specific life prediction and operational requirement-tailored functionality, increasing operational readiness, reducing life-cycle costs, reducing logistics footprint, and lowering the maintenance burden on uniformed personnel. Durability can therefore be incorporated into the design and construction phase, where the largest return can be realized.
“Just Peace at War’s End: The jus post bellum Principles as National and Human Security Imperatives – Lessons of Iraq and Kosovo”
Authors: Rozpedowski Joanna K.
Published: September 2015

The contemporary period is characterized by intense scholarly, legal and socio-political debates about the conceptual framework, which ought to guide state responses to unmitigated violence resulting from protracted armed conflicts across the globe. The prevalence of military interventionist discourse in the media and governmental organizations necessitates further reflection on the international community’s legal obligations not only with respect to putting an end to violence, but holding aggressors of armed perpetrations individually accountable for political unrest, economic destabilization and loss of life as well as responsible for the reestablishment of social and political order on the ground, which are to ensure human security in the process of post-conflict nation-building. The analysis of two recent conflicts in Kosovo and Iraq will provide a critical foundation for the examination of international bodies’ and state actors’, such as the United Nations (in the case of Kosovo) and of the United States (in the case of Iraq), implementation of legal mechanisms by which the
Wood microfibril angle variation after drying
Authors: Lube Vinicius , Lazarescu Ciprian , Mansfield Shawn D. , Avramidis Stavros
Published: September 2015

The change of microfibril angle (MFA) in wood cell wall was assessed after drying at 60°C and 70°C to a target moisture content (MC) of 8% or 15%. Despite literature contradictions about the effect of drying on MFA, this study showed that drying increased significantly the MFA, possibly as a result of lateral deformation of cellulose microfibrils during water desorption from wood cell walls. Moreover, MFA increased when target MC decreased.
Stufendiagnostik zur Abklärung von krankhaften Veränderungen der Leukozyten
Authors: Diem Heinz , Nebe Thomas , Bettelheim Peter
Published: September 2015

Die maschinelle Analyse von Veränderungen der weißen Blutzellen ist zu einem Massenparameter geworden und wird durch Hämatologieautomaten mit hohem Probendurchsatz geleistet. Die nachfolgende Stufe einer mikroskopischen Analyse eines panoptisch gefärbten Blutausstrichs durch einen erfahrenen Untersucher ist arbeitsaufwändig und teuer bei unzureichender Vergütung. Jedoch ist sie wegweisend und entscheidet über teure Spezialanalysen wie Zytogenetik und Molekulargenetik. Der Strategie der Stufendiagnostik kommt daher an dieser Stelle eine besondere Bedeutung zu. Zu diesem Thema wird ein neuer Vorschlag unterbreitet.
Presepsin (sCD14-ST) as a biomarker of sepsis in clinical practice and in emergency department: a mini review
Authors: Erenler Ali Kemal , Yardan Turker
Published: September 2015

Presepsin is a 13-kDa protein that is a fragment of CD14 with truncated N-terminal, the receptor for lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/LPS-binding protein complexes. It is a novel marker being sought in many diseases such as sepsis, kidney failure, disseminated intravascular coagulation, etc. In this review, we aimed to clarify its utility in critical diseases and availability in critical care settings such as emergency departments and intensive care units.
The Impact of Recombination Hotspots on Genome Evolution of a Fungal Plant Pathogen
Authors: Croll Daniel , Lendenmann Mark H , Stewart Ethan , McDonald Bruce A
Published: September 2015

Recombination has an impact on genome evolution by maintaining chromosomal integrity, affecting the efficacy of selection, and increasing genetic variability in populations. Recombination rates are a key determinant of the coevolutionary dynamics between hosts and their pathogens. Historic recombination events created devastating new pathogens, but the impact of ongoing recombination in sexual pathogens is poorly understood. Many fungal pathogens of plants undergo regular sexual cycles, and sex is considered to be a major factor contributing to virulence. We generated a recombination map at kilobase-scale resolution for the haploid plant pathogenic fungus Zymoseptoria tritici. To account for intraspecific variation in recombination rates, we constructed genetic maps from two independent crosses. We localized a total of 10,287 crossover events in 441 progeny and found that recombination rates were highly heterogeneous within and among chromosomes. Recombination rates on large chromosomes were inversely correlated with chromosome length. Short accessory chromosomes often lacked evidence for crossovers between parental chromosomes. Recombination was concentrated in narrow hotspots that were preferentially located close to telomeres. Hotspots were only partially conserved between the two crosses, suggesting that hotspots are short-lived and may vary according to genomic background. Genes located in hotspot regions were enriched in genes encoding secreted proteins. Population resequencing showed that chromosomal regions with high recombination rates were strongly correlated with regions of low linkage disequilibrium. Hence, genes in pathogen recombination hotspots are likely to evolve faster in natural populations and may represent a greater threat to the host.
Reentry to Pediatric Residency After Global Health Experiences
Authors: Balmer Dorene F. , Marton Stephanie , Gillespie Susan L. , Schutze Gordon E. , Gill Anne
Published: September 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Although nonphysician reentry transitions have been characterized in literature, little is known about the reentry physicians in general, or residents in particular. We conducted a qualitative study to explore pediatric residents’ reentry, using reverse culture shock as a conceptual framework.

METHODS:

Eighteen pediatric residents who completed global health experiences in Africa (9 categorical residents with 1-month elective, 9 global child health residents with 12-month training) participated in interviews that included a card-sort to solicit emotional responses consistent with the conceptual framework. Data in the form of interview transcripts were coded and analyzed according to principles of grounded theory.

RESULTS:

All pediatric residents, despite variable time abroad, reported a range of emotional responses on reentry to residency. Global child health residents felt disconnection and frustration more intensely than categorical residents, whereas categorical residents felt invigoration more intensely than global child health residents. Although residents met with program leadership after their return, no resident described these meetings as a formal debriefing, and few described a deliberate strategy for processing emotions on reentry.

CONCLUSIONS:

Consistent with reverse culture shock, pediatric residents felt a range of emotions as they move toward a steady state of acculturating back into their residency program. Residency programs might consider creating safety nets to help cultivate support for residents when they reenter training.
Colorectal Cancer due to Constitutional Mismatch Repair Deficiency Mimicking Neurofibromatosis I
Authors: Urganci Nafiye , Genc Dildar Bahar , Kose Gulsen , Onal Zerrin , Vidin Ozge Ozdemir
Published: September 2015

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is an extremely rare tumor of childhood that can be associated with cancer predisposition syndromes. A patient with CRC related to constitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD) syndrome with features of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) is presented here. A 13-year-old boy was admitted for a 4-month history of diarrhea and rectal bleeding. The patient had extensive café au lait spots, freckling, and Lisch nodules. He fulfilled the NF-1 diagnostic criteria. Colonoscopy showed numerous polyps and a colorectal mass lesion, of which a biopsy revealed adenocarcinoma, an uncommon pathology associated with NF-1. High microsatellite instability and homozygous mutation of PMS2 gene in tumor tissue and blood lymphocytes, respectively, confirmed the diagnosis of CMMRD. Unfortunately, because family history related to CMMRD was negative, the parents denied the diagnosis and refused the therapy, and the patient was lost to follow-up. CMMRD is a rare cancer predisposition syndrome with phenotypical features resembling NF-1. The disease may be suspected in the setting of NF-1 features and CRC, high-grade brain tumors, or hematologic malignancies. Lack of family history related to CMMRD may be a major obstacle to convincing parents of the presence of an inherited disease in their progeny.
The Theory of the Earth Energy
Authors: Kivari Kristel
Published: September 2015

Using the concept of “implicit religion,” this article attempts to show how the broad field of vernacular ideas and practices, related to the “forces beyond,” provide an explanation for living in general. The idea that reality is shaped by an imperceptible “force” or “radiation,” which has an impact on human health and cognition, is the background for curiosity about dowsing practices. The discussions of early miners in Germany show the accommodation of vernacular practice within the framework of natural science and technology during the early modern period. A similar approach was also present at the end of the 1980s when the Baltic Dowsers’ Association formulated its activities, as seen in the collections of articles generated by their periodical conferences. The article concludes with an analysis of the formulation of vernacular truth about Earth energies alongside the material sciences, and presents the usage of such place legends and vernacular practices in the fringes of Academia.
The Dharma of Doctor Strange
Authors: Gruber Joel
Published: September 2015

In 1963, Stan Lee and Steve Ditko created a mystical comic book superhero named Doctor Strange. In the last fifty years, the character has appeared in hundreds of monthly serials, guest cameos, and graphic novels. In this article, I argue that the sequential panels of art, along with the narratives plotting Doctor Strange’s adventures, provide three different (but interrelated) histories of late twentieth-/early twenty-first century America. First, they document a visual history of a distinctly American pop-fascination with the “Orient,” and with Tibet in particular. Second, over the course of a half-century the comic serial maps the Americanization of quasi-occult and quasi-Buddhist practices. Third, the transformation of Doctor Strange, as an individual with hopes, fears, and an evolving worldview, provides insight into the implied but seldom expressed religiosity of generations of Buddhist studies scholars.
Implicit Religion, Explicit Religion and Attitude Toward Substances
Authors: Penny Gemma , Francis Leslie
Published: September 2015

A recent research tradition has employed Bailey’s (1997, 1998) notion of implicit religion to explore the ways in which Christian believing in the UK may be persisting in spite of declining levels of church attendance. Working within this framework the first aim of this study is to explore the prevalence of implicit religion, operationalized as attachment to traditional Christian rites of passage, among young people living within the UK. The second aim of this study, following the analytic model proposed by Francis (2013a, 2013b) exploring the psychological functions served by explicit religion and implicit religion, is to test the hypothesis that explicit religiosity (operationalized as church attendance) and implicit religiosity (operationalized as attachment to Christian rites of passage) are both associated with proscriptive attitudes toward substances among young people. Data provided by a sample of 12,252 13- to 15- year-old young people support this hypothesis.
Winter Wandering on Snow Shoes
Authors: Jirasek Ivo
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this article is to show the changes of understanding in participants’ mind maps, following the winter Outward Bound course in the Czech Republic. The two-week program includes walking on snow shoes in winter for 10 kilometers—more than 6 miles—every day, bivouacking in the open before sunset, collecting firewood, making preparations for food and sleep: all, of course, profane activities. Participants’ mind maps, however, show radical changes in their understanding of the Course (and probably changes in their understanding of life). Transcendence (a sign of spirituality) is made visible in some mind-maps. Such experience manifests some kind of pilgrimage experience, without of course a religious framework. Such a journey should therefore be classified as spiritual. Spirituality, which can be perceived not only as an aspect of religiosity, but as an individual’s way of existence, could be perceived as the central concept for such travelling. Authenticity and spirituality are basic terms for the right understanding of particular travellers’ modes of experience.
DIVERSITY OF WILD PALMS (ARECACEAE) IN THE REPUBLIC OF BENIN: FINDING THE GAPS IN THE NATIONAL INVENTORY COMBINING FIELD AND DIGITAL ACCESSIBLE KNOWLEDGE
Authors: Idohou Rodrigue , Arino Arturo , Assogbadjo Achille , Glele Kakai Romain , Sinsin Brice
Published: September 2015

Despite many efforts by researchers worldwide to assess the biodiversity of plant groups, many locations on Earth remain not well surveyed and data-deprivation biases often occur. Robust estimates of inventory completeness could help alleviate the problem. This study aimed at identifying areas representing gaps in current knowledge of African palms, with a focus on Benin (West Africa). We assessed the completeness of knowledge of African palms targeting geographical distance and climatic difference from well-known sites. Data derived from intensive fieldwork were combined with independent data available online. Completeness inventory indices were calculated and coupled with other criteria to decide on the extent of knowledge. Results showed a high overall value for inventory completeness, as well as an even distribution of well-known areas across the country. However, poorly-known areas were distinctly identified and correlated to remote locations with low accessibility. This study illustrates how biodiversity survey and inventory efforts can be guided by existing knowledge. We strongly recommend the combination of digital accessible knowledge and fieldwork, coupled with expert knowledge, to obtain a better picture of the completeness of the inventory in tropical ecosystems.
Потоки обучающихся в российской системе образования
Authors: Schugal Nikolay
Published: September 2015

Предлагается карта движения обучавшихся в системе образования РФ в 2008 г. Показаны потоки между основными уровнями образования, а также между системой образования и рынком труда. Карта может служить полезным инструментом для анализа структуры спроса по уровням образования, образовательных траекторий, а также для оценки потребностей системы образования в финансировании. Подробно анализируются источники информации, послужившие базой для разработки карты, их особенности и ограничения.
«Чутко отразить все требования революции»: советский университет в 1920–1930-е годы
Authors: Safronov Petr
Published: September 2015

Формирование советской университетской системы рассматривается с точки зрения поддерживавших и воспроизводивших ее языковых практик. Утверждается, что ядром данных практик являлся военно-мобилизационный и плановый дискурс, который обнаруживает значительную устойчивость на всем протяжении 1920?х и 1930?х годов. Широко используются неопубликованные материалы Архива МГУ и печатные издания того времени.
Рецензия на книгу по музыкальной педагогике Коган Г. «У врат мастерства». М.: Классика-XXI, 2004
Authors: Lapina Maria
Published: September 2015

Книга, написанная выдающимся пианистом и педагогом, доктором искусствоведения, рассматривается не только как учебник по музыке, но и как руководство для жизни.
Модели первичной профессиональной подготовки в современных экономиках
Authors: Vishnevskaya Nina
Published: September 2015

Рассмотрены основные институциональные особенности систем первичной профессиональной подготовки в координируемых и либеральных экономиках. Автор считает, что специфика институтов рынка труда стала одним из главных факторов, формирующих ту или иную модель профессиональной подготовки. Одно из главных направлений оценки этих моделей — насколько адекватны они вызовам современной экономики. Механизм предоставления образовательных услуг в отдельных странах определяется в первую очередь выбором источника финансирования, соотношением между общими и специальными знаниями, особенностями организации системы сертификации полученных знаний.
Multidisciplinary Treatment for Peri‐Implantitis: A 24‐Month Follow‐Up Case Report
Authors: Sapata Vítor Marques , de Souza André Barbisan , Sukekava Flávia , Villar Cristina Cunha , César Neto João Batista
Published: September 2015

Introduction: Although osseointegrated implants are a highly predictable and effective alternative in the rehabilitation of partially or totally edentulous patients, the prevalence of implant biologic complications has been rising. This report describes a case of peri‐implantitis involving multiple maxillary implants that was successfully treated by combining the removal of two implants, surgical debridement associated with implantoplasty of the remaining implants, and prosthetic design changes.

Case Presentation: A 50‐year‐old female patient with a fixed full‐arch implant‐supported maxillary prosthesis presented with chief complaints of halitosis and difficulty in maintaining proper oral hygiene. Based on clinical and radiographic findings, a diagnosis of peri‐implantitis was established. Two implants were removed because of advanced peri‐implant bone loss and inadequate prosthetic positioning. The remaining implants were treated with access surgery, removal of granulation tissue, and implantoplasty of the exposed implant threads. Three months after surgery, an O‐ring‐retained bar overdenture was delivered. At 6, 12, and 24 months after treatment completion, peri‐implant probing depths (PDs) were reduced significantly. None of the implants exhibited residual PDs >4 mm, bleeding on probing, or suppuration. Moreover, peri‐implant bone levels remained stable over time.

Conclusion: Surgical therapy combined with implantoplasty of the exposed threads and prosthetic design changes can be used successfully for treating peri‐implantitis.
Pelvic Fractures in Paediatric Polytrauma Patients: Classification, Concomitant Injuries and Early Mortality
Authors: Tosounidis Theodoros H , Sheikh Hassaan , Giannoudis Peter V
Published: September 2015

Purpose of this Study :

To review the characteristics, concomitant injuries and mortality in children with polytrauma and associated pelvic fractures treated in a Level-I Trauma Centre.

Materials and Methods :

Between December 2003 and November 2013, 49 children with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) of 16 or greater and a pelvic fracture met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated. The mortality, transfusion requirements and length of intensive care unit stay were correlated with the ISS, Abbreviated Injury Scale, concomitant limb and spine fractures, and type of pelvic ring injury (AO/OTA classification).

Results :

The mean ISS at presentation was 31.4 (range 16 to 57). 19 (38.7%) patients sustained a Type A, 27 (55.1%) a Type B and 3 (6.2%) a Type C injury. Head and face trauma was present in 33 (67.3%) cases. Blood transfusion during the resuscitation process was necessitated in six (12.2%) patients. Thirty-eight (77.5%) patients were managed non-operatively for their pelvic injuries. The mean duration of hospital stay was 23.9 days (range 1 to 146 days). In this cohort of polytrauma paediatric patients there were five (10.2%) mortalities (all suffered an associated head trauma ) within 30 days from the initial injury.

Conclusion:

Severe head injury and a high ISS are significantly associated with mortality in children with pelvic fractures. These patients have a high incidence of concomitant spine and chest injuries Hemorrhage due to pelvic injuries is rare. Severe head injuries predict a longer ICU stay in this population.
Detection and Occurrence of Indicator Organisms and Pathogens
Authors: Samhan Farag A. , Kronlein Maggie R. , Fakher Umama , Kronlein Cathrine , Stedtfeld Robert D. , Hashsham Syed A.
Published: September 2015

This review summarizes the literature pertaining to the occurrence and detection of indicator organisms and pathogens published during 2014. It is organized into the following sections: i) detection and quantification of fecal indicators and waterborne pathogens, ii) microbial source tracking (MST) using genotypic and phenotypic methods, iii) antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB), iv) live vs. dead cell differentiation methods, and v) next generation sequencing (NGS).
Wastewater Collection Systems
Authors: Vallabhaneni Srinivas
Published: September 2015

This chapter presents a review of the literature published in 2014 on topics relating to wastewater collection systems. It presents advances in noteworthy research and industry experiences selected from major literature sources. This review is divided into the following sections: sewer system planning; sewer condition assessment/rehabilitation; pump stations and system design; operation and maintenance; and regulatory issues/ integrated planning.
Biological Fixed Film
Authors: Kim Eun‐Sik , Liu Yang , Kim Jeung‐Bea , Chang Insoo , Choi Jeongdong
Published: September 2015

The review includes literatures published in the year of 2014 regarding the uses of biofilm and bioreactor to treat wastewater. Topics considered are: biofilm formation and factors that impact biofilm formation; extracellular polymeric substance from biofilms; biofilm consortia and quorum sensing; biofilm reactors and biofilm in bioelectrochemical systems.
Biosolids and Sludge Management
Authors: Brisolara Kari Fitzmorris , Qi Yinan
Published: September 2015

This review section covers journal articles and conference papers related to biosolids and sludge management that were published in 2014. The literature review has been divided into the following sections:  • Biosolids regulations and management issues;  • ;Biosolids characteristics, quality and measurement including microconstituents and pathogens;  • Sludge treatment technologies including pretreatment and sludge minimization, conditioning and dewatering, digestion, composting and innovative technologies;  • Disposal and reuse including combustion/ incineration, land application and non‐ agricultural use;  • Odor and air emissions; and  • Energy issues.
Modeling, Instrumentation, Automation, and Optimization of Water Resource Recovery Facilities
Authors: Sweeney Michael W. , Kabouris John C.
Published: September 2015

A review of the literature published in 2014 on topics relating to water resource recovery facilities (WRRF) in the areas of modeling, instrumentation, automation and optimization of wastewater treatment is presented. Note that WEF has adopted ‘WRRF’ replacing such previous terms as publicly owned treatment works, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), and other terms and officially instituted this change in its publications beginning in 2012. It is anticipated the replaced terms will remain in use by other publications and authors for some time. This review will strive to maintain consistency with this change but also avoid confusion where possible.
Distributed Treatment Systems
Authors: Zgonc David , Baideme Matthew
Published: September 2015

This section presents a review of the literature published in 2014 on topics relating to distributed treatment systems. This review is divided into the following sections with multiple subsections under each: constituent removal; treatment technologies; and planning and treatment system management.
Food‐Processing Wastes
Authors: Frenkel Val S. , Cummings Gregg A. , Maillacheruvu K.Y. , Tang Walter Z.
Published: September 2015

Literature published in 2014 and early 2015 related to food processing wastes treatment for industrial applications are reviewed. This review is a subsection of the Treatment Systems section of the annual Water Environment Federation literature review and covers the following food processing industries and applications: general, meat and poultry, fruits and vegetables, dairy and beverage, and miscellaneous treatment of food wastes.
Mixing and Transport
Authors: Chang Chein‐Chi , Chapman Tom , Dong Zhanfeng , Wei Li , You Shao‐Hong
Published: September 2015

This section covers research published during the calendar year 2014 on mixing and transport processes. The review covers mixing of anaerobic digesters, mixing of heat transfer, and environmental fate and transport.
Stream, Lake, and Reservoir Management
Authors: Chang Chein‐Chi , Wei Li , Cui Yubo , Dong Zhanfeng , You Shao‐Hong
Published: September 2015

This review on stream, lake, and reservoir management covers selected 2014 publications on the focus of the following sections:  • Biota  • Climate effect  • Models  • Remediation and restoration  • Reservoir operations  • Stream, Lake, and Reservoir Management  • Water quality
Substratum‐Associated Microbiota
Authors: Furey Paula C. , Liess Antonia
Published: September 2015

This review of literature on substratumassociated microbiota from 2014 highlights topics on benthic algae and bacteria from a range of aquatic environments, but focuses on freshwater habitats. Advances in pollution and toxin detection, assessment methods, and applications of new technologies are highlighted as are updates in taxonomy and systematics. Aspects of general ecology, water quality, nutrient cycling, trophic interactions, land use changes, biofuels, biofouling, and environmental challenges such as climate change, pollutants, tar sands and fracking, oil spills and nuisance blooms are presented.
Economics
Authors: Palley Paul D. , Parcero Miriam E.
Published: September 2015

A review of literature during calendar year 2014 focused on environmental policies and sustainable development, and economic policies. This review is divided into these sections: sustainable development, irrigation, ecosystems and water management, climate change and disaster risk management, economic growth, water supply policies, water consumption, water price regulation, and water price valuation.
Neuroenergetics of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Karelina Kate , Weil Zachary M
Published: September 2015

A subset of traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients exhibit cognitive deficits later in life which may be due to the underlying pathology associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) or chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The similarities between chronic traumatic encephalopathy and AD merit investigation of potentially similar mechanisms underlying the two diseases. Experimental and clinical studies of AD brains have revealed that insulin resistance links metabolic dysfunction to the neurodegeneration and cognitive deficits associated with AD. Recent work in experimental TBI has established that recovery is dependent on the return of normal brain metabolism and mounting evidence for a role of brain insulin in regulating central metabolism suggests that TBI, like AD, results in central insulin resistance. Here, we review the converging evidence from AD, TBI and diabetes research linking insulin insensitivity to neurodegeneration.
First and efficient synthesis of 4-[((3,4-dihydroxybenzoyl)-oxy)methyl]-phenyl-β-D-glucopyranoside, an antioxidant from Origanum vulgare
Authors: Li Yu-Wen , Ma Cui-Li
Published: September 2015

4-(3,4-Dihydroxybenzoyloxymethyl)phenyl-O-?-D-glucopyranoside (DBPG, 1 ), a
polyphenolic glycoside previously isolated from Oregano(Origanum vulgare
L.) in 0.08% isolated yield, was synthesized in five chemical steps with
41.4% overall yield. First,
4-(hydroxymethylphenyl)-2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-b-D-glucopyranoside 4 was
obtained in 53.2% yield by selective glycosylation of 4-hydroxybenzyl
alcohol 3 with 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-?-D-glucopyranosyl bromide 2 in a
mixture of chlorobenzene and aqueous CsOH using triethylbenzylammonium
chloride (TEBAC) as a phase transfer catalyst. Then, this product was
esterified with 3,4-diacetoxylbenzoyl chloride 7 to generate
4-(3,4-diacetoxybenzoyloxy-methyl) phenyl 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-b-D-glucopyranoside 8 in 95% yield. Finally,
selectively global deacetylation of 8 was performed in a mixture of
dibutyltin oxide and methanol under reflux to afford 1 in 94.8% yield.
Theoretical determination of the redox electrode potential of cyanidin
Authors: Andoni Mihaiela , Medeleanu Mihai , Ştefănuţ Mariana , Căta Adina , Ienaşcu Ioana , Tănasie Cristian , Pop Raluca
Published: September 2015

The electrode potential of cyanidin was determined both by experimental
(cyclic voltammetry) and theoretical methods, at HF/6-311G(d) level of
theory. An isodesmic reaction scheme, involving 1,2-benzoquinone as reference
molecules, has been proposed for the computation of electrode potential of
cyanidin. The results of the ab initio computations are in reasonable
agreement with available experimental measurements; the differences between
experiment and theory are within the range of 0.02-0.05V. Geometric
parameters of the six more stable conformers of cyanidin are computed, as
well as properties like atomic charges and contribution to the HOMO (Highest
Occupied Molecular Orbital) energies of each hydroxyl group of the cyanidin.
Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Corporate Governance and Reputation in Nepalese Commercial Banks
Authors: Chalise Mahananda
Published: September 2015

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been the subject of considerable investigation and debate for many years among both scholars and practitioners. Corporate social responsibility (CSR), corporate governance (CG) and corporate reputation (CR) influence the development of firms mostly. In this paper, a model of dynamic relations among CSR, corporate governance and corporate reputation was constructed in the theoretical framework of stakeholder. The model reflects that corporate reputation is formed in the dynamic relations between firms and corporate stakeholders, and corporate reputation is the synthesized result of corporate governance and CSR. For the purpose of testing the fitness of the model in Nepal, an empirical study is conducted on the relationship between corporate governance, CSR and corporate reputation. The result shows that good CSR has positive effect on banks reputation. It also indicates that CG and CR don't have significant relationship, but coefficient of the intervariable (CG*CSR) is significant and positive, which reflects that good corporate governance alone can't bring good reputation, but it can't when it comes with good social responsibility.The Journal of Development and Administrative Studies, Vol. 22, No. 1-2, pp. 27-36, 2014
Determinants of Informal Employment and Wage Differential in Nepal
Authors: Parajuli Resham Bahadur Thapa
Published: September 2015

Wage discrimination in formal and informal sectors is one of the pressing issues that might perpetuate uneven livelihood options and human capital formation at household level. This paper analyzes on what determines whether a person works in informal sector. It also gauzes the degree of wage discrimination in formal and informal sectors in Nepal using country representative labor force survey based cross-section data produced by ILO in 2008. It is found that the gender, geography, educational status, marital status, age of the employee and ethnicity of the employee definitely matter whether an individual works in informal or formal sector. These variables need to be considered while formulating social security policies. Since the wages for relatively educated workers are significantly low in informal sector than formal one, it demands a suitable policy intervention to check probable working poverty in Nepal.The Journal of Development and Administrative Studies, Vol. 22, No. 1-2, pp. 37-50, 2014
Smoking behavior of adolescents and their view towards government's ban on smoking in public places in Kathmandu
Authors: Dahal S , Subedi RK , Maharjan S , Maharjan J
Published: September 2015

Background: Several studies have reported that different forms of tobacco use are high in Nepal. However, information about factors affecting the cigarette smoking behavior of adolescents is inadequate. The objective of this study was to explore the cigarette smoking behavior of adolescents and to determine its association with their views towards cigarette smoking.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 394 adolescent students by using questionnaire method in 3 randomly selected colleges of Kathmandu district, Nepal. Data were analyzed by using bivariate and binary logistic regression analysis.Results: The study found that 22% of the students were ever smokers. Higher percentage of students receiving more amount of pocket money, having poor academic performance, having frequent dispute with teachers, having alcohol using and smoker family members were ever smokers. Multivariate analysis showed that students were more likely to be current smokers if they have positive views towards smoking and were less likely to be current smokers if they have negative view towards smoking (p<0.01).Conclusion: Reasons for smoking are many that create challenges for smoking control programs. Changing the views and imagery of adolescents’ towards cigarette smoking should also be considered while designing such programs.Nepal Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.3(2) 2014: 94-100
Design of Sustainable High-Volume Pavements Using Controlled Low-Strength Material from Native Soil
Authors: Bheemasetti Tejo V. , Pedarla Aravind , Puppala Anand J. , Acharya Raju
Published: September 2015

Long-term performance and durability of a pavement structure built on expansive soils are mainly dependent on the effective stabilization of the subgrade and the compaction techniques adopted during construction. Recent studies proved that the self-compacting, controlled low-strength materials acted as an effective bedding material for pipelines. A major portion of highways and low-volume traffic intersections are underlain by pipelines and other culvert structures. In this research study, an attempt was made to investigate the effectiveness of controlled low-strength material (CLSM) as a pavement subgrade material. For this study, CLSM mix designs were investigated by using native high-plasticity soil and Type 1 portland cement. From these mix designs, two high-performing mixes were selected on the basis of their setting time, flowability, and density. A series of resilient modulus tests and durability tests was conducted on the samples cast in the laboratory. Alternate wetting–drying cycles were conducted on laboratory cast specimens to address the long-term stability of the proposed mixtures. These test results were analyzed. A sustainable mix design is recommended for the design of high-traffic pavement roads. It was observed that Mix Design 2, with 10% cement, showed significant improvement in terms of strength and durability and thereby showed promise as a subgrade material for high-volume roads.
On the information leakage of differentially-private mechanisms
Authors: Alvim Mário S. , Andrés Miguel E. , Chatzikokolakis Konstantinos , Degano Pierpaolo , Palamidessi Catuscia
Published: September 2015

Abstract

Differential privacy aims at protecting the privacy of participants in statistical databases. Roughly, a mechanism satisfies differential privacy if the presence or value of a single individual in the database does not significantly change the likelihood of obtaining a certain answer to any statistical query posed by a data analyst. Differentially-private mechanisms are often oblivious: first the query is processed on the database to produce a true answer, and then this answer is adequately randomized before being reported to the data analyst. Ideally, a mechanism should minimize leakage – i.e., obfuscate as much as possible the link between reported answers and individuals’ data – while maximizing utility – i.e., report answers as similar as possible to the true ones. These two goals, however, are in conflict with each other, thus imposing a trade-off between privacy and utility.

In this paper we use quantitative information flow principles to analyze leakage and utility in oblivious differentially-private mechanisms. We introduce a technique that exploits graph symmetries of the adjacency relation on databases to derive bounds on the min-entropy leakage of the mechanism. We consider a notion of utility based on identity gain functions, which is closely related to min-entropy leakage, and we derive bounds for it. Finally, given some graph symmetries, we provide a mechanism that maximizes utility while preserving the required level of differential privacy.
Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase Producing Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are Emerging as Major Pathogens Responsible for Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Iqbal Sarwar , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Samad Tabassum , Ananna Mehruba Alam , Mitra Palash , Chowdhury Tufayel Ahmed
Published: September 2015

Background: Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae are two common organisms responsible for urinary tract infection (UTI) world-wide. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae are increasingly being reported as urinary isolates.Objectives: This study was aimed to describe the frequency of ESBL positive E. coli and K. pneumoniae causing UTI, associated risk factors and antibiotic sensitivity pattern of these organisms.Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in BIRDEM General Hospital from January 2014 to March 2014. One hundred consecutive culture positive UTI cases due to E. coli or K. pneumoniae infection, irrespective of ESBL positivity were purposively included in this study. UTI due to organisms other than E. coli and K. pneumoniae and culture negative cases were excluded from the study.Results: Total patients were 100, male were 21 and female 79. Mean age was 59.1 (range 19-81) years. Out of 100 patients, 96 were diabetic. Fever, vomiting, dysuria and increased urinary frequency were common symptoms. Among the 100 culture positive samples, E. coli were 84 and K. pneumoniae were 16. Forty eight (48/84, 57.1%) of E. coli and 10 (10/16, 62.5%) of K. pneumoniae were ESBL positive. Female patients, presence of diabetes mellitus (DM), long duration and poor control of DM, chronic kidney disease (CKD), renal stone and past history of UTI were significant risk factors for ESBL positivity. Amikacin, netilmycin and imipenem were among the most sensitive antibiotics.Conclusion: Two-thirds of the E. coli and K. pneumoniae in this study were ESBL positive. Female gender with poor control of DM, CKD and past history of UTI were significant risk factors for ESBL positivity. Aminoglycosides and carbapenems remain the drug of choice.Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 49-52
Managing Severe Malaria in the Era of Pre-elimination
Authors: Afroze Khalisa , Sayeed Abdullah Abu , Faiz M Abul
Published: September 2015

Severe malaria is a medical emergency mainly caused by falciparum parasite responsible for nearly 584,000 annual deaths globally in 2013.Most deaths in malaria happens in endemic countries before the patient reaches hospitals or within short period after admission; support of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for optimum treatment of severe malaria is not available in many endemic countries. WHO recommends confirmation of diagnosis by immunochromatographic rapid test or by blood film examination and for treatment to use artemisinin based combination treatment (ACT) for uncomplicated falciparum malaria and thus reduces the incidence of severe malaria. Treatment recommended for severe malaria is IV artesunate for at least 24 hours followed by full dose oral ACT on recovery of per os status. Early feeding in unconscious patient of severe malaria increases the possibility of aspiration pneumonia. A single dose of rectal artesunate reduces death by 25% when used at a community level as pre-referral treatment and completion of treatment follows after admission. Single dose of primaquine 0.25 mg/kg is recommended for reduction of transmission. District hospitals in high endemic area should have facility of dialysis and referral Medical College Hospital should have functional ICU for further reduction of malaria death.Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 57-59
Serum Procalcitonin Guided Antibiotic Therapy in Patients with Acute Exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Khanam Rawshan Arra , Haque Md Ashraful , Faruq Mohammad Omar
Published: September 2015

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a preventable and treatable, but progressive disease. Hospital admissions of patients with COPD are frequently due to acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD). AECOPD are very common, affecting about 20% of COPD patients. The bacterial infection plays an important role in the exacerbation of COPD patients. In addition, recent studies using molecular diagnostics indicate that a substantial proportion of AECOPD are associated with viral infection. Accurate methods to differentiate viral and bacterial respiratory infections to allow targeted antibiotic therapy would be beneficial. Acute phase reactants are capable of demonstrating the inflammation; however, they cannot be employed to make a difference between bacterial and nonbacterial causes of the inflammation. Recently, measurement of procalcitonin (PCT) levels appears to be useful in order to minimize this problem.Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 67-70
Acute Kidney Injury Following Ingestion of Averrhoa bilimbi Juice
Authors: Billah Md Mostarshid , Rahman Md Anisur , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Swarna Ayesha Tabassum , Mitra Palash , Chowdhury Tufayel Ahmed , Ananna Mehruba Alam , Samad Tabassum , Haque Wasim Md Mohosinul , Iqbal Sarwar , Mansur Md Abul
Published: September 2015

Bilimbi/belembu fruit belongs to the family of Oxalidacae, species Averrhoa bilimbi. Freshly prepared concentrated juice of bilimbi has very high oxalic acid content and consumption carries a high risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI) by deposition of calcium oxalate crystals in renal tubules. AKI due to Averrhoa bilimbi juice injestion is very rare. We report the case history of a 60-year-old hypertensive, dyslipidemic patient, with normal renal function, who ingested around 600ml of juice in fasting state for treating dyslipidemia. The patient developed AKI and required three sessions of hemodialysis. Her renal function returned to normal after five weeks.Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 71-73
Laparoscopic Repair of Bilateral Inguinal Hernia in Female - A Case Report
Authors: Mondal Samiron Kumar , Roy Sharmistha
Published: September 2015

Inguinal hernia is relatively uncommon in female, as compared to in males. The ratio of male to female is 6:11. The reason behind that is favorable stronger inguinal anatomy in females. This is a case of 59 years old lady presenting with pain in groin diagnosed as case of bilateral indirect inguinal hernia and was treated successfully by laparoscopic transabdominal pre-peritoneal (TAPP) hernioplastyBangladesh Crit Care J September 2015; 3 (2): 79-80
The Filmic Fugue of Ken Russell's Pop Goes the Easel
Authors: Wyver John
Published: September 2015

First broadcast as an episode of BBC Television's Monitor in 1962, Ken Russell's documentary film Pop Goes the Easel profiles four young artists: Pauline Boty, Peter Phillips, Derek Boshier and Peter Blake. With an exuberant and varied approach to filming, Pop Goes the Easel is a rich and revealing document of early Pop Art in London. This article situates the film within the context of television's engagement with the visual arts in the medium's first 25 years. It is argued that part of its significance within the tradition of the visual arts on television is its resistance to the determinations of an explanatory voice and that its achievement combines and develops approaches of photojournalism, documentary and art cinema from the mid and late 1950s. It is further proposed that Pop Goes the Easel is especially noteworthy for its finely tuned balancing of tensions between discourses traditionally understood as oppositional: the stasis of artworks versus the linear narrative of film; the indexical qualities of documentary versus the inventions of fiction; the mass-produced elements and images of popular culture versus the individual authorship and authority of high art; the abstracted rationality of critical discourse versus explosions of embodied sensuality; and the determinations and closure of a singular meaning versus polysemic openness.