bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unusual Phenotype of the Brownell-Oppenheimer Variant of Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
Authors: Lamichhane Dronacharya ,   Department of Neurology, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (UIHC), 2RCP, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
Published: March 2016

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is a rare, transmissible, neurodegenerative disease caused by conformationally changed abnormal prion protein. Most patients present with cognitive impairment, myoclonus, ataxia, visual impairment alone or in combination. Patients who present with ataxia only at the onset are said to have Brownell-Oppenheimer variant of the disease. However, here we present a case where visual symptoms preceded the clinical presentation and hallucinations accompanied the ataxia at the onset of the disease.
Feeding in the NICU: A Perspective from a Craniosacral Therapist
Authors: Quraishy Karyn
Published: March 2016

Abstract

Completing full feedings is a requirement for discharge for babies in the NICU. Interaction between the nerves and the muscles of the jaw, tongue, and the soft palate is required for functional sucking and swallowing. Jaw misalignment, compressed nerves, and misshapen heads can interfere with these interactions and create feeding difficulties. Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a noninvasive manual therapy that is perfect for the fragile population in the NICU. CST can be used as a treatment modality to release fascial restrictions that are affecting the structures involved in feeding, thereby improving feeding outcomes.
Starostne razlike in razlike med spoloma v agresivnosti slovenskih učencev in dijakov
Authors: Kozina Ana
Published: March 2016

V raziskavi smo preučevali razlike v agresivnosti med spoloma in med različnimi starostnimi skupinami na vzorcih slovenskih učencev in dijakov. Zajeti so bili trije reprezentativni vzorci: mlajši učenci (učenci 4. razreda osnovne šole), starejši učenci (učenci 8. razreda osnovne šole) ter dijaki (dijaki 4. letnikov programov splošne mature). Analize so temeljile na rezultatih lestvice agresivnosti LA, ki meri splošno agresivnost in štiri specifične vrste agresivnosti: telesna agresivnost (TA), besedna agresivnost (BA), notranja agresivnost (NA) in agresivnost v odnosu do avtoritete (AA). Z dvosmerno analizo variance smo ugotovili pomemben učinek spremenljivk spola, starosti ter pomembne učinke interakcije obeh spremenljivk (spol in starost) na agresivnost učencev in dijakov. Ugotovili smo pomembne razlike med spoloma v skupini starejših učencev in v skupini mlajših učencev, ne pa tudi dijakov. Učenci, tako starejši kot mlajši, so bili bolj agresivni v primerjavi z učenkami. Starejši učenci so bili v primerjavi z mlajšimi učenci bolj besedno agresivni, bolj telesno agresivni, bolj notranje agresivni in bolj agresivni v odnosu do avtoritete. Dijaki so bili v primerjavi z obema skupinama učencev manj telesno agresivni, manj besedno agresivni, bolj notranje agresivni, v agresivnosti v odnosu do avtoritete pa so se nahajali med obema skupinama učencev. Vzorec razlik med različnimi skupinami je skladen z izsledki strokovne literature, ki ugotavljajo višjo agresivnost pri moškem spolu in različne razvojne poti za različne vrste agresivnosti, kar so potrdili tudi naši podatki. Raziskava je podala pomembne primerjave agresivnosti na slovenskih vzorcih in obenem odprla nova raziskovalna vprašanja, vezana predvsem na merjenje in preverjanje bolj posrednih oblik agresivnosti, ki so značilnejše za ženski spol in dijake.
Prilagoditvene spretnosti
Authors: Stropnik Staša , Kodrič Jana
Published: March 2016

Prilagoditvene spretnosti predstavljajo konceptualne, socialne in praktične spretnosti, ki se jih ljudje naučimo, da lahko delujemo v vsakodnevnem življenju. Vključujejo posameznikovo sposobnost zadovoljevanja vsakodnevnih potreb ob upoštevanju zahtev okolja. Dobro razvite prilagoditvene spretnosti se kažejo pri posameznikovi neodvisnosti v različnih okoljih, nizke prilagoditvene spretnosti pa se povezujejo s posameznikovo nesamostojnostjo in večjo potrebo po nadzoru in pomoči pri vsakodnevnih nalogah. Pogosto se ocenjevanje prilagoditvenih spretnosti povezuje z ocenjevanjem motnje v duševnem razvoju, saj diagnoza motnja v duševnem razvoju poleg nižjih dosežkov pri standardiziranih preizkusih spoznavnih sposobnosti vključuje tudi pomembne primanjkljaje prilagoditvenih spretnostih. Ocenjevanje prilagoditvenih spretnosti je del standardne ocenjevalne baterije pri otrocih in odraslih, ki imajo različne težave, motnje ali zmanjšane zmožnosti, ki vplivajo na njihovo vsakodnevno funkcioniranje. V prispevku so predstavljeni tudi psihometrični pripomočki, ki se najpogosteje uporabljajo za ocenjevanje prilagoditvenih spretnosti in značilnosti prilagoditvenih spretnosti pri posameznih kliničnih skupinah.
Dialog s sanjami – Fenomenološka raziskava
Authors: Lah Alja , Kordeš Urban
Published: March 2016

Osnovni cilj raziskave je bil preveriti, kako se spreminjajo vsebina, dinamika in doživljanje sanj, če vanje usmerimo pozornost. Hkrati nas je zanimalo, kako se sanjske vsebine odzivajo na trenutne življenjske okoliščine, predvsem na teoretska pričakovanja sanjalca. Namen raziskave je bilo kvalitativno razumevanje fenomena z očmi tistih, ki so ga doživeli. Zaradi tega je bila kot metodološko orodje izbrana multipla (primerjalna) fenomenološka študija primera. Osem udeležencev smo spremljali v razdobju štirih mesecev, od tega so se drugo polovico časa s sanjami intenzivno ukvarjali. Razdeljeni so bili v tri skupine - glede na interpretacijsko shemo, ki je bila udeležencem predstavljena. Poleg transkriptov fenomenoloških intervjujev so bili analizirani tudi sanjski dnevniki, ki so jih udeleženci vodili ves čas raziskave. Rezultati raziskave se skladajo s Friedmanovo hipotezo o "dialogu s sanjami": med sanjami in budnim življenjem poteka dvosmerna izmenjava. Pri udeležencih se je pokazalo, da se sanje spreminjajo skladno s pričakovanji sanjalca in njegovimi teoretskimi predstavami. Udeleženci so poročali tudi o vplivu v obratno smer, torej sanj na mišljenje in vedenje. Povečanje pozornosti na sanje je pri udeležencih poleg intenzitete in tipa sanj spremenilo tudi njihovo pomenskost. Med drugim so rezultati pokazali, da je narasel delež eksistencialnih in transcendentalnih sanj na račun vsakdanjih sanj.
Psihometrične značilnosti slovenske priredbe revidirane verzije generičnega vprašalnika Indeks poklicnega stresa (RG-OSI)
Authors: Sedlar Nataša , Sočan Gregor , Šprah Lilijana
Published: March 2016

Revidirana verzija generičnega vprašalnika Indeks poklicnega stresa (Occupational Stress Index; RG-OSI) temelji na kognitivno-ergonomskem pristopu, ki poklicni stres analizira z vidika obremenitev na kognitivne procese zaposlenih. Model je strukturiran kot dvodimenzionalna matrika, znotraj katere je vsak element točkovan z vrednostmi od 0 do 2 (včasih z vmesnimi vrednostmi 0,5, 1,5 ali 1,75), ki so določene kot nelinearne kombinacije več kriterijev iz različnih postavk. Ker uporabljen način točkovanja v psihološkem merjenju ni pogost, smo v naši študiji želeli preveriti njegovo ustreznost in zbrati nekaj informacij o veljavnosti slovenske priredbe vprašalnika. Vprašalnik je izpolnilo 349 slovenskih zaposlenih iz različnih poklicnih skupin. Podatke smo analizirali s korespondenčno analizo, klasično analizo zanesljivosti in postavk, ter analizo TOP (teorije odgovora na postavko). Rezultati korespondenčne analize kažejo, da se kategorije odgovorov na posameznih spremenljivkah pogosto ne razvrščajo po velikosti. V nadaljevanju smo na podlagi analize zanesljivosti razvili kratko verzijo vprašalnika in zbrali nekaj podatkov o njeni veljavnosti. Raziskava kaže, da psihometrične značilnosti opisanega načina točkovanja v psihološkem merjenju niso najbolj ustrezne.
Napovedniki zadovoljstva v partnerskem odnosu pri moških in ženskah
Authors: Zager Kocjan Gaja , Avsec Andreja
Published: March 2016

V raziskavi nas je zanimalo, ali se moški in ženske razlikujejo v tem, kaj jim je pomembno v partnerskem odnosu, in od česa je odvisno njihovo zadovoljstvo v tem odnosu. Predhodne raziskave le redko poročajo o pomembnih razlikah med spoloma v različnih napovednikih partnerskega zadovoljstva. Do podobnih ugotovitev smo prišli tudi v naši raziskavi, kjer smo med napovednike zadovoljstva vključili navezanost v odnosu, samospoštovanje in partnerjevo socialno oporo. V raziskavi je sodelovalo 200 udeležencev (od tega 63,5 % žensk), ki so izpolnili vprašalnik Doživljanje odnosov z bližnjimi ECR-RS, Vprašalnik kakovosti odnosa QRI, Lestvico zadovoljstva s partnerskim odnosom RSS ter enopostavčno mero samospoštovanja. Pri obeh spolih je bil pomemben pozitiven napovednik zadovoljstva s partnerskim odnosom samospoštovanje, pomembni negativni napovedniki pa so bili izogibanje in anksioznost v odnosu ter konfliktnost odnosa. Med spoloma ni bilo statistično pomembnih razlik. Naši rezultati so skladni z ugotovitvami predhodnih raziskav, ki le redko poročajo o večjih razlikah med spoloma v različnih napovednikih.
Doživljanje stresa in izgorelosti, povezanih z delom z učenci s posebnimi potrebami pri učiteljih v osnovni šoli
Authors: Košir Katja , Licardo Marta , Tement Sara , Habe Katarina
Published: March 2016

Namen raziskave je bil preveriti napovedno vrednost nekaterih značilnosti delovnega mesta osnovnošolskih učiteljev za doživljanje poklicnega stresa in izgorelosti. Značilnosti delovnega mesta so bile v raziskavi opredeljene kot zahteve in viri, ki smo jih nadalje delile na splošne in na specifične, vezane na delo z učenci s posebnimi potrebami. Preverjale smo, ali spremenljivke, povezane z delom z učenci s posebnimi potrebami, pojasnijo dodaten delež variance v doživljanju stresa in izgorelosti, ki ga ni mogoče pojasniti s splošnimi značilnostmi delovnega mesta. V raziskavi so sodelovali osnovnošolski učitelji iz vseh dvanajstih regij v Sloveniji; število sodelujočih variira od 439 do 886. Rezultati kažejo, da specifične značilnosti delovnega mesta samostojno napovedujejo pomemben del variance stresa, emocionalne izčrpanosti in depersonalizacije. Splošne delovne obremenitve in specifična delovna obremenjenost z učenci s posebnimi potrebami predstavljata najbolj stabilna napovednika vseh treh proučevanih kriterijev. Na osnovi ugotovitev predlagamo tudi nekatere ukrepe za zmanjšanje stopnje doživljanja stresa ter za učinkovitejše spoprijemanje z njim.
Odnos med ustvarjalnostjo in igralnim materialom v kontekstu simbolne igre
Authors: Fric Jekovec Jelka , Bucik Valentin
Published: March 2016

Ker se v simbolni igri odvijajo številni razvojni procesi na spoznavnem, čustvenem in socialnem področju, naj bi bila prav simbolna igra prostor, kjer otrok razvija svoje potenciale, med drugim tudi ustvarjalnost. Namen raziskave je bil proučiti odnos med ustvarjalnostjo otroka v zgodnjem otroštvu in različnimi vrstami igralnega materiala z vidika simbolne igre. 59 otrok, starih med pet in šest let, je pred pričetkom in po končani deseti igralni seansi izpolnilo Preizkus ustvarjalnega mišljenja TCT-DP. Med igralnimi seansami se je vsak otrok samostojno igral z eno od šestih vrst igrač, ki so se med seboj razlikovale v treh dimenzijah: strukturiranosti, realističnosti in kompleksnosti. Pričakovali smo, da se bo mera ustvarjalnosti zvišala pri vseh otrocih, vendar različno glede na vrsto igralnega materiala, s katerim so se otroci igrali. Rezultati so pokazali, da razlike v meri ustvarjalnosti med obema merjenjema niso bile statistično pomembne, zato ne moremo sklepati, da je različen igralni material pomembno prispeval k razliki v meri ustvarjalnosti, pokazal pa se je majhen porast mere ustvarjalnosti pri skupini otrok, ki je imela v igralnih seansah na voljo nizko strukturiran, nizko realističen in nizko kompleksen igralni material, kar je podobno, kot kažejo izsledki nekaterih drugih, primerljivih raziskav.
Vpliv različnih motečih dražljajev na prostorski delovni spomin
Authors: Starc Martina , Repovš Grega
Published: March 2016

Varovanje informacij pred različnimi motnjami je ključno za optimalno delovanje delovnega spomina. V študiji smo preverili, kako prisotnost motečih dražljajev vpliva na prostorski delovni spomin. Primerjali smo vpliv motečih dražljajev, ki izstopajo zaradi podobnosti tarčnim dražljajem ali zaradi negativne čustvene nasičenosti. Preverili smo vpliv na natančnost visoko ločljivih predstav, kot tudi na vpliv prostorskih kategorij, ter natančneje opredelili ne le obstoj, temveč tudi smer motečega vpliva (proti ali stran od motnje). Udeleženci (n = 25, 8 moških, 19–31 let) so si morali zapomniti natančen položaj prikazane premešane slike in ga po premoru obnoviti z igralno palico. V nekaterih poskusih je bila v času premora prikazana dodatna moteča slika (premešana, nevtralna ali negativna). Merili smo razpršenost odgovorov (kótnih napak) ter usmerjene premike proti prototipnim kótom (45°) in proti položaju motečih dražljajev. Prisotnost motečih dražljajev ni vplivala na razpršenost odgovorov, zmanjšala pa je težnjo udeležencev, da odgovore premikajo proti prototipnim kótom. Različne vrste slik se v tem učinku niso razlikovale. V nasprotju s pričakovanji so udeleženci odmikali svoje odgovore stran od položaja motečih slik; ta učinek je bil bolj izrazit pri negativnih slikah. Udeleženci pri reševanju naloge prostorskega delovnega spomina najverjetneje poleg natančnega pomnjenja položaja in vzdrževanja pozornosti na mestu dražljaja strateško uporabljajo tudi informacijo o pripadnosti prostorskim kategorijam (kvadrantom) ter informacijo o položaju motečega dražljaja. Odbojni učinek motečega dražljaja najverjetneje izhaja iz inhibicije njegovega položaja in kaže na potrebo po dopolnitvi računskih modelov prostorskega delovnega spomina ter upoštevanju različnih strategij uporabe delovnega spomina.
Policijska zaslišanja skozi prizmo znanosti
Authors: Areh Igor
Published: March 2016

Za pridobivanje informacij od človeških virov se uporablja več pristopov, ki se med seboj razlikujejo v teoretičnih temeljih, ciljih, izvedbi in etični sprejemljivosti. V članku sta kritično predstavljena in primerjana dva prevladujoča pristopa zasliševanj osumljencev, ki ju uporabljajo v policiji. Starejši in prevladujoč zasliševalski pristop je osredotočen na pridobivanje obremenilnih izjav ali priznanj s strani osumljencev, kar nevarno dviguje verjetnost pridobitve izsiljenega priznanja. Zaradi tega se ta pristop imenuje obtožilni ali prisilni, saj osumljence sili k priznanju. Novejši zasliševalski pristop, imenovan preiskovalni intervju, je osredotočen na pridobivanje točnih informacij, s katerimi policija išče dokaze za izločitev ali obdolžitev osumljenca. Verjetnost za obdolžitev in obsodbo nedolžne osebe je tako manjša, saj so osumljenci manj izpostavljeni psihičnim pritiskom. V primerjavi s prisilnim zasliševalskim pristopom je pristop zbiranja informacij etično bolj sprejemljiv, ima znanstvene temelje, omogoča pridobivanje bolj točnih informacij, pri preiskovanju kaznivih dejanj pa je vsaj toliko učinkovit kot prisilni pristop. V preiskovalno intervjuvanje so vgrajena predvsem spoznanja s področja socialne psihologije. Analiza prisilnih zasliševalskih modelov kaže, da so brez znanstveno-teoretičnih temeljev in so tako zasnovani predvsem na nepreverjenih zdravorazumskih domnevah strokovnih avtoritet. V vsesplošno bolj razvitih državah se prisilni model umika modelu zbiranja informacij, kar je povezano s praktičnim uveljavljanjem visokih standardov varovanja človekovih pravic in z ozaveščenostjo strokovne, akademske ter laične javnosti o tveganjih povezanih s prisilnimi zasliševalskimi metodami.
Publicação científica na sociedade: correlação dos temas Ecologia Industrial e APLs
Authors: Saraceni Adriana Valélia , Andrade Júnior Pedro Paulo de , Resende Luis Mauricio Martins de
Published: March 2016

Os Arranjos Produtivos Locais desempenham um papel importante para o desenvolvimento de cidades e regiões, e, a Ecologia Industrial é uma área de pesquisa emergente no campo científico, no desenvolvimento regional sustentável e em soluções no desenvolvimento da produção e da sociedade. Este trabalho teve como objetivo central verificar, publicação científica entre Ecologia Industrial e Arranjos Produtivos Locais na sociedade acadêmica, disponibilizadas nas bases Capes e Scielo, com vistas em identificar a evolução do tema e a relação entre eles. Assim identifica a evolução do tema em âmbito social e científico. Para atingir a proposta, realizou-se como procedimento metodológico uma revisão da literatura baseada na bibliometria. Para a aplicação do estudo, foram utilizadas fases do instrumento ProKnow-C. As palavras-chave foram pesquisadas em inglês e português, entre os anos de 2000 a 2011. Os resultados obtidos por meio dos procedimentos metodológicos utilizados apontaram que o campo da Ecologia Industrial e sua relação com Arranjos Produtivos Locais ainda é profícuo de estudos. No entanto, observou-se uma ascendência de estudos que correlacionam os temas. Diante das verificações iniciais, percebe-se interesse por parte das publicações e dos pesquisadores em aprofundar suas questões de pesquisa nessa área. O presente trabalho identificou ainda novas palavras-chave e oportunidades de pesquisa a serem aprofundadas, possibilitando a continuidade dos estudos voltados para o desenvolvimento regional, social e sustentável.
Usability Improvement based on Hierarchical Task Analysis (Case Study on i-Caring)
Authors: Muttaqy Muhammad Zafif , Kurniati Angelina Prima , A.W Yanuar Firdaus
Published: March 2016

i-Caring (IT Telkom i-Gracias Collaboration and e-learning) is an LMS (Learning Management System)-based e-learning integrated in i-Gracias own by IT Telkom Bandung. This application is being used to facilitate the implementation of learning activities supporting the face-to-face discussion in class. I-Caring supports some functionalities, such as instructional material storage, assignment, quizzes, and communication through chats and forum. But the great functionalities are not supported by an interactive interface, which is not comply to QUIM (Quality in Use Integrated Measurement) standard. This paper explains our research results of evaluation and recommendation process. This research is using Hierarchical Task Analysis (HTA) which has some indicators to analyze the behavior of a sample lecturers and students which are randomly selected. Based on the questionnaires answers, we analyze the relations of each points on HTA principles using SPSS Statistics 20 tools. The recommendations are then formulated to improve i-Gracias user interface quality.
Thermal Analysis of the Tibial Cement Interface with Modern Cementing Technique
Authors: Vertullo Christopher J. , Zbrojkiewicz David , Vizesi Frank , Walsh William R.
Published: March 2016

Background:

The major cause of cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty (TKA) failure is aseptic loosening of the tibial component necessitating revision surgery. Recently, multiple techniques have been described to maximize cement penetration depth and density in the proximal tibia during TKA to potentially avoid early loosening. While cement polymerisation is an exothermic reaction, minimal investigation into the proximal tibial thermal safety margin during cement polymerisation has been undertaken. In animal models osseous injury occurs at temperatures greater than 47 °C when applied for one minute. The aim of this study was to investigate the cement bone interface temperatures in TKA using modern tibial cementing techniques with a cadaveric tibial tray model.

Methods:

Eight adult cadavers were obtained with the proximal tibial surface prepared by a fellowship trained arthroplasty surgeon. Third generation cementation techniques were used and temperatures during cement polymerization on cadaveric knee arthroplasty models were recorded using thermocouples.

Results:

The results showed that no tibial cement temperature exceeded 44 °C for more than 1 minute. Two of the eight cadaveric tibias recorded maximum temperatures greater than 44 °C for 55 seconds and 33 seconds, just less than the 60 seconds reported to cause thermal injury. Average maximum polymerization temperatures did not correlate with deeper cement penetration or tray material. Maximum mantle temperatures were not statistically different between metal and all polyethylene tibial trays.

Conclusion:

Our investigation suggests that modern cementing techniques result in maximum mantle temperatures that are less than previously recorded temperatures required to cause thermal osseous injury, although this thermal injury safety margin is quite narrow at an average of 4.95 °C (95% confidence interval ± 4.31).
Analysis of reconstructive methods in surgical treatment of nasal skin defects
Authors: Jovic Marko , Dimitrijevic Milovan , Dimitrijevic Ana , Stojkovic Goran
Published: March 2016

Background/Aim. Surgeons often face with the problem when selecting a reconstructive method for nasal skin defects. The aim of this study was to determine functional and aesthetic character-istics of different reconstructive methods used for skin defects in different regions of the nose. Methods. The study involved 44 patients with basocellular carcinoma in nasal area. The nasal skin was divided into four subunits: the tip, the alar lobules, the side-walls and the dorsum. The average skin defect size was 10 mm in diameter. Local flaps and full thickness skin grafts were used in the study. We analyzed the functional and esthetic results of dif-ferent reconstructive methods used for nasal defects in different regions of the nose 12 months after the surgery. Results. The study shows that different reconstructive methods produce dif-ferent functional and esthetic results in the same nasal subunits and that the same reconstructive method produces different re-sults in different nasal subunits. Conclusions. Estimation the postoperative functional and esthetic characteristics of different reconstructive methods is one of the basic preconditions of suc-cessful reconstruction.
Synthesis, Characterisation and Biological Screening of Some 2-Substituted Benzimidazole Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Shaaban Mohammed Abed-Elrahman , Kamal Aliaa Mohammed , Teba Heba El-Sayed
Published: March 2016

Twenty two new polycyclic compounds containing a 2-substituted benzimidazole core were synthesised, characterised and evaluated in vitro against the three most widespread cancers. Seven compounds showed outstanding antitumor activity towards breast, lung or central nervous system cancer cell lines.
Tetra- and Octa-[4-(Thiophen-3-Yl)Phenoxy]-Bearing Metal-Free and Lu(III) Phthalocyanines: Synthesis, Characterisation and Investigation of Photophysical Properties
Authors: Özdemir Merve , Kılıçarslan Fatma Aytan , Erdoğmuş Ali , Erden İbrahim
Published: March 2016

4-[4-(Thiophen-3-yl)phenoxy]phthalonitrile and 4,5-bis[4-(thiophen-3-yl)phenoxy]phthalonitrile and their corresponding tetra- and octa-substituted metal-free and Lu(III) phthalocyanine derivatives have been synthesised. The aggregation behaviour of the phthalocyanine compounds has been investigated in different solvents and concentrations and the effects of the substituent and the lutetium on their photophysical properties are reported.
College News Vol.27(2) 2009
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2016

No abstract.
Names of the reviewers of articles
Authors: Editor The
Published: March 2016

No abstract.
Effect of Additional Structure on Effective Stack Height of Gas Dispersion in Atmosphere
Authors: Michioka Takenobu , Sada Koichi , Okabayashi Kazuki
Published: March 2016

Wind-tunnel experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of additional structure (building, sea wall and banking) on the effective stack height, which is usually used in safety analyses of nuclear power facilities in Japan. The effective stack heights were estimated with and without the additional structure in addition to the reactor building while varying several conditions such as the source height, the height of additional structure and the distance between the source position and the additional structure. When the source height is equivalent to the reactor building height, the additional structure enhances both the vertical and horizontal gas dispersion widths and decreases the ground gas concentration, and it means that the additional structure does not decrease the effective stack height. When the source height is larger than the reactor height, the additional structures might affect the effective stack height. As the distance between the source and the additional structure decreases, or as the height of the additional structure increases, the structure has a larger effect on the effective stack height.
The impact of Built Environment Characteristics on Metropolitans Energy Consumption: An Example of Greater Cairo Metropolitan Region
Authors: Osman Taher , Divigalpitiya Prasanna , Osman Mustafa
Published: March 2016

This paper examined the influences of the built environment and socio-economic driving factors on domestic gasoline consumption in developing metropolitan regions through a case study of the greater Cairo metropolitan region (GCMR), Egypt. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used in analyzing the causality of the domestic gasoline consumption. The influences of major factors hypothetically affecting the domestic energy consumption such as resident characteristics and built environment characteristics were examined. The results proved a high positive influence of the resident’s income and the number of adults as driving factors, directly and indirectly, affecting energy consumption levels. Population density and attitude towards eco-friendly driving factors proved to be a very low influence on energy consumption. The built environment driving factors such as access time to public transportation and related building characteristics factors proved to have a low impact on energy consumption. The study findings suggest that the design of a built environment should be well related to the socioeconomic factors to manage the domestic energy consumption in developing regions.
New Trends in Oxidative Functionalization of Carbon–Hydrogen Bonds: A Review
Authors: Shul’pin Georgiy
Published: March 2016

This review describes new reactions catalyzed by recently discovered types of metal complexes and catalytic systems (catalyst + co-catalyst). Works of recent years (mainly 2010–2016) devoted to the oxygenations of saturated, aromatic hydrocarbons and other carbon–hydrogen compounds are surveyed. Both soluble metal complexes and solid metal compounds catalyze such transformations. Molecular oxygen, hydrogen peroxide, alkyl peroxides, and peroxy acids were used in these reactions as oxidants.
Cavitation Inception in Crossflow Hydro Turbines
Authors: Adhikari Ram , Vaz Jerson , Wood David
Published: March 2016

Cavitation is a common flow phenomena in most hydraulic turbines and has the potential to cause vibration, blade surface damage and performance loss. Despite the fact that crossflow turbines have been used in small-scale hydropower systems for a long time, cavitation has not been studied in these turbines. In this paper, we present the findings of a computational study on cavitation inception in crossflow turbines. Cavitation inception was assessed using three-dimensional (3D) Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) computations. A homogeneous, free-surface two-phase flow model was used. Pressure distributions on the blades were examined for different flow rates, heads and impeller speeds to assess cavitation inception. The results showed that cavitation occurs in the second stage of the turbine and was observed on the suction side near the inner edge of the blades. For the particular turbine studied, cavitation always occurred at shaft speeds greater than that, giving the maximum efficiency for each combination of flow rate and head. The implication is that the useful operating range of crossflow turbines is up to and including the maximum efficiency point.
Using the Reverse Shock Index at the Injury Scene and in the Emergency Department to Identify High-Risk Patients: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study
Authors: Lai Wei-Hung , Rau Cheng-Shyuan , Hsu Shiun-Yuan , Wu Shao-Chun , Kuo Pao-Jen , Hsieh Hsiao-Yun , Chen Yi-Chun , Hsieh Ching-Hua
Published: March 2016

Background: The ratio of systolic blood pressure (SBP) to heart rate (HR), called the reverse shock index (RSI), is used to evaluate the hemodynamic stability of trauma patients. A SBP lower than the HR (RSI < 1) indicates the probability of hemodynamic shock. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the RSI as evaluated by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel at the injury scene (EMS RSI) and the physician in the emergency department (ED RSI) could be used as an additional variable to identify patients who are at high risk of more severe injury. Methods: Data obtained from all 16,548 patients added to the trauma registry system at a Level I trauma center between January 2009 and December 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. Only patients transferred by EMS were included in this study. A total of 3715 trauma patients were enrolled and subsequently divided into four groups: group I patients had an EMS RSI ≥1 and an ED RSI ≥1 (n = 3485); group II an EMS RSI ≥ 1 and an ED RSI < 1 (n = 85); group III an EMS RSI < 1 and an ED RSI ≥ 1 (n = 98); and group IV an EMS RSI < 1 and a ED RSI < 1 (n = 47). A Pearson’s χ2 test, Fisher’s exact test, or independent Student’s t-test was conducted to compare trauma patients in groups II, III, and IV with those in group I. Results: Group II and IV patients had a higher injury severity score, a higher incidence of commonly associated injuries, and underwent more procedures (including intubation, chest tube insertion, and blood transfusion in the ED) than patients in group I. Group II and IV patients were also more likely to receive a severe injury to the thoracoabdominal area. These patients also had worse outcomes regarding the length of stay in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU), the proportion of patients admitted to ICU, and in-hospital mortality. Group II patients had a higher adjusted odds ratio for mortality (5.8-times greater) than group I patients. Conclusions: Using an RSI < 1 as a threshold to evaluate the hemodynamic condition of the patients at the injury scene and upon arrival to the ED provides valid information regarding deteriorating outcomes for certain subgroups of patients in the ED setting. Particular attention and additional resources should be provided to patients with an EMS RSI ≥ 1 that deteriorates to an RSI < 1 upon arrival to the ED since a higher odds of mortality was found in these patients.
Screening for Neurocognitive Impairment in HIV-Infected Individuals at First Contact after HIV Diagnosis: The Experience of a Large Clinical Center in Northern Italy
Authors: Focà Emanuele , Magro Paola , Motta Davide , Compostella Silvia , Casari Salvatore , Bonito Andrea , Brianese Nigritella , Ferraresi Alice , Rodari Paola , Pezzoli Maria , Quiros-Roldan Eugenia , Castelli Francesco
Published: March 2016

Neurocognitive disorders are emerging, probably underestimated, complications in HIV-infected people. The aim of the study was to assess neurocognitive profiles of newly detected HIV-infected patients. We performed an observational retrospective single-cohort study. Illiterates and patients with neurologic symptoms or previous psychiatric diagnosis were excluded. Neuropsychological profiles were assessed using a validated battery of neuropsychological tests. We included 206 patients; with males representing the majority of them (85%). Risk factors for HIV acquisition were unprotected sexual intercourse (homo/bisexual in 39.8% and heterosexual in 60.2%). Thirty-nine patients (18.9%) were previous injection drug users, while 41 (19.9%) were alcohol abusers. Mean education was 11.1 years (SD—standard deviation—3.7). A high prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND, 47.1%) was present in HIV-infected patients: particularly, asymptomatic neurocognitive impairment (ANI) was found in 30.6%, mild neurocognitive disorder (MND) in 15% and HIV-associated dementia (HAD) in 1.5%. Male gender, low degree of education, AIDS diagnosis and gepatitis B virus (HBV) co-infection were factors independently associated with HAND in a multivariable logistic regression model. Our data suggest that patient-specific factors and AIDS diagnosis have a certain kind of impact in HAND occurrence. A complete neuropsychological screening must be recommended in all patients at HIV-infection diagnosis.
Overexpression of TRPV3 Correlates with Tumor Progression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Zhang Qianhui , Fan Kai , Li Baiyan , Li Huifeng , Qi Hanping , Guo Jing , Cao Yonggang , Sun Hongli
Published: March 2016

(1) Background: Transient receptor potential vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) is a member of the TRP channels family of Ca2+-permeant channels. The proteins of some TRP channels are highly expressed in cancer cells. This study aimed to assess the clinical significance and biological functions of TRPV3 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); (2) Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of TRPV3 in NSCLC tissues and adjacent noncancerous lung tissues. Western blot was used to detect the protein expressions of TRPV3, CaMKII, p-CaMKII, CyclinA, CyclinD, CyclinE1, CDK2, CDK4, and P27. Small interfering RNA was used to deplete TRPV3 expression. A laser scanning confocal microscope was used to measure intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i). Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle; (3) Results: TRPV3 was overexpressed in 65 of 96 (67.7%) human lung cancer cases and correlated with differentiation (p = 0.001) and TNM stage (p = 0.004). Importantly, TRPV3 expression was associated with short overall survival. In addition, blocking or knockdown of TRPV3 could inhibit lung cancer cell proliferation. Moreover, TRPV3 inhibition could decrease [Ca2+]i of lung cancer cells and arrest cell cycle at the G1/S boundary. Further results revealed that TRPV3 inhibition decreased expressions of p-CaMKII, CyclinA, CyclinD1, CyclinE, and increased P27 level; (4) Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that TRPV3 was overexpressed in NSCLC and correlated with lung cancer progression. TRPV3 activation could promote proliferation of lung cancer cells. TRPV3 might serve as a potential companion drug target in NSCLC.
Molecular Characterization of MaCCS, a Novel Copper Chaperone Gene Involved in Abiotic and Hormonal Stress Responses in Musa acuminata cv. Tianbaojiao
Authors: Feng Xin , Chen Fanglan , Liu Weihua , Thu Min , Zhang Zihao , Chen Yukun , Cheng Chunzhen , Lin Yuling , Wang Tianchi , Lai Zhongxiong
Published: March 2016

Copper/zinc superoxide dismutases (Cu/ZnSODs) play important roles in improving banana resistance to adverse conditions, but their activities depend on the copper chaperone for superoxide dismutase (CCS) delivering copper to them. However, little is known about CCS in monocots and under stress conditions. Here, a novel CCS gene (MaCCS) was obtained from a banana using reverse transcription PCR and rapid-amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) PCR. Sequence analyses showed that MaCCS has typical CCS domains and a conserved gene structure like other plant CCSs. Alternative transcription start sites (ATSSs) and alternative polyadenylation contribute to the mRNA diversity of MaCCS. ATSSs in MaCCS resulted in one open reading frame containing two in-frame start codons to form two protein versions, which is supported by the MaCCS subcellular localization of in both cytosol and chloroplasts. Furthermore, MaCCS promoter was found to contain many cis-elements associated with abiotic and hormonal responses. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that MaCCS was expressed in all tested tissues (leaves, pseudostems and roots). In addition, MaCCS expression was significantly induced by light, heat, drought, abscisic acid and indole-3-acetic acid, but inhibited by relatively high concentrations of CuSO4 and under cold treatment, which suggests that MaCCS is involved in abiotic and hormonal responses.
The Protective Role of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Produced by Heme Oxygenases and Derived from the CO-Releasing Molecule CORM-2 in the Pathogenesis of Stress-Induced Gastric Lesions: Evidence for Non-Involvement of Nitric Oxide (NO)
Authors: Magierowska Katarzyna , Magierowski Marcin , Surmiak Marcin , Adamski Juliusz , Mazur-Bialy Agnieszka , Pajdo Robert , Sliwowski Zbigniew , Kwiecien Slawomir , Brzozowski Tomasz
Published: March 2016

Carbon monoxide (CO) produced by heme oxygenase (HO)-1 and HO-2 or released from the CO-donor, tricarbonyldichlororuthenium (II) dimer (CORM-2) causes vasodilation, with unknown efficacy against stress-induced gastric lesions. We studied whether pretreatment with CORM-2 (0.1–10 mg/kg oral gavage (i.g.)), RuCl3 (1 mg/kg i.g.), zinc protoporphyrin IX (ZnPP) (10 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.)), hemin (1–10 mg/kg i.g.) and CORM-2 (1 mg/kg i.g.) combined with NG-nitro-l-arginine (l-NNA, 20 mg/kg i.p.), 1H-[1,2,4]oxadiazolo[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ, 10 mg/kg i.p.), indomethacin (5 mg/kg i.p.), SC-560 (5 mg/kg i.g.), and celecoxib (10 mg/kg i.g.) affects gastric lesions following 3.5 h of water immersion and restraint stress (WRS). Gastric blood flow (GBF), the number of gastric lesions and gastric CO and nitric oxide (NO) contents, blood carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) level and the gastric expression of HO-1, HO-2, hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) were determined. CORM-2 (1 mg/kg i.g.) and hemin (10 mg/kg i.g.) significantly decreased WRS lesions while increasing GBF, however, RuCl3 was ineffective. The impact of CORM-2 was reversed by ZnPP, ODQ, indomethacin, SC-560 and celecoxib, but not by l-NNA. CORM-2 decreased NO and increased HO-1 expression and CO and COHb content, downregulated HIF-1α, as well as WRS-elevated COX-2 and iNOS mRNAs. Gastroprotection by CORM-2 and HO depends upon CO’s hyperemic and anti-inflammatory properties, but is independent of NO.
Effects of Cr2N Precipitation on the Antibacterial Properties of AISI 430 Stainless Steel
Authors: Du Je-Kang , Chao Chih-Yeh , Jhong Yu-Ting , Wu Chung-Hao , Wu Ju-Hui
Published: March 2016

Based on their mechanical properties and good corrosion resistance, some commercial Ni-Cr stainless steels have been widely applied as biomaterials, including the austenitic 304 stainless steel, the austenitic 316 stainless steel, the duplex 2205 stainless steel, and the ferritic 430 stainless steel. In order to reduce the occurrence of infections resulting from biomaterial implants, instruments, and medical devices, Cu2+ and Ag2+ ions have been added onto biomaterials for increasing the antibacterial properties, but they are known to damage biofilm. The occurrence of nanoparticles can also improve the antibacterial properties of biomaterials through various methods. In this study, we used Escherichia coli and analyzed the microstructures of American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) 430 stainless steel with a 0.18 mass % N alloy element. During a lower temperature aging, the microstructure of the as-quenched specimen is essentially a ferrite and martensite duplex matrix with some Cr2N precipitates formed. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of the alloy for E. coli ranged from 3% to 60%, consistent with the presence of Cr2N precipitates. When aged at a lower temperature, which resulted in nano-Cr2N precipitation, the specimen possessed the highest antibacterial activity.
Challenges in the Use of Compact Disc-Based Centrifugal Microfluidics for Healthcare Diagnostics at the Extreme Point of Care
Authors: Gilmore Jordon , Islam Monsur , Martinez-Duarte Rodrigo
Published: March 2016

Since its inception, Compact Disc (CD)-based centrifugal microfluidic technology has drawn a great deal of interest within research communities due to its potential use in biomedical applications. The technology has been referred to by different names, including compact-disc microfluidics, lab-on-a-disk, lab-on-a-CD and bio-disk. This paper critically reviews the state-of-the-art in CD-based centrifugal microfluidics devices and attempts to identify the challenges that, if solved, would enable their use in the extreme point of care. Sample actuation, manufacturing, reagent storage and implementation, target multiplexing, bio-particle detection, required hardware and system disposal, and sustainability are the topics of focus.
A New Analytical Model to Estimate the Voltage Value and Position of the Pull-In Limit of a MEMS Cantilever
Authors: Ak Cevher , Yildiz Ali
Published: March 2016

In this study, a new analytical model is developed for an electrostatic Microelectromechanical System (MEMS) cantilever actuator to establish a relation between the displacement of its tip and the applied voltage. The proposed model defines the micro-cantilever as a rigid beam supported by a hinge at the fixed-end with a spring point force balancing the structure. The approach of the model is based on calculation of the electrostatic pressure centroid on the cantilever beam to localize the equivalent electrostatic point load. Principle outcome of the model is just one formula valid for all displacements ranging from the initial to the pull-in limit position. Our model also shows that the pull-in limit position of a cantilever is approximately 44% of the initial gap. This result agrees well with both simulation results and experimental measurements reported previously. The formula has been validated by comparing the results with former empirical studies. For displacements close to the pull-in limit, the percentage errors of the formula are within 1% when compared with real measurements carried out by previous studies. The formula also gives close results (less than 4%) when compared to simulation outcomes obtained by finite element analysis. In addition, the proposed formula measures up to numerical solutions obtained from several distributed models which demand recursive solutions in structural and electrostatic domains.
The Tissue Distribution and Urinary Excretion Study of Gallic Acid and Protocatechuic Acid after Oral Administration of Polygonum Capitatum Extract in Rats
Authors: Ma Feng-Wei , Deng Qing-Fang , Zhou Xin , Gong Xiao-Jian , Zhao Yang , Chen Hua-Guo , Zhao Chao
Published: March 2016

In the present study, we investigated the tissue distribution and urinary excretion of gallic acid (GA) and protocatechuic acid (PCA) after rat oral administration of aqueous extract of Polygonum capitatum (P. capitatum, named Herba Polygoni Capitati in China). An UHPLC-MS/MS analytical method was developed and adopted for quantification of GA and PCA in different tissue homogenate and urine samples. Interestingly, we found that GA and PCA showed a relatively targeted distribution in kidney tissue after dosing 60 mg/kg P. capitatum extract (equivalent to 12 mg/kg of GA and 0.9 mg/kg of PCA). The concentrations of GA and PCA in the kidney tissue reached 1218.62 ng/g and 43.98 ng/g, respectively, at one hour after oral administration. The results helped explain the empirical use of P. capitatum for kidney diseases in folk medicine. Further studies on urinary excretion of P. capitatum extract indicated that GA and PCA followed a concentrated elimination over a 4-h period. The predominant metabolites were putatively identified to be 4-methylgallic acid (4-OMeGA) and 4-methylprotocatechuic acid (4-OMePCA) by analyzing their precursor ions and characteristic fragment ions using tandem mass spectrometry. However, the amount of unchanged GA and PCA that survived the metabolism were about 14.60% and 15.72% of the total intake, respectively, which is reported for the first time in this study.
Paired Hierarchical Organization of 13-Lipoxygenases in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chauvin Adeline , Lenglet Aurore , Wolfender Jean-Luc , Farmer Edward
Published: March 2016

Embryophyte genomes typically encode multiple 13-lipoxygenases (13-LOXs) that initiate the synthesis of wound-inducible mediators called jasmonates. Little is known about how the activities of these different LOX genes are coordinated. We found that the four 13-LOX genes in Arabidopsis thaliana have different basal expression patterns. LOX2 expression was strong in soft aerial tissues, but was excluded both within and proximal to maturing veins. LOX3 was expressed most strongly in circumfasicular parenchyma. LOX4 was expressed in phloem-associated cells, in contrast to LOX6, which is expressed in xylem contact cells. To investigate how the activities of these genes are coordinated after wounding, we carried out gene expression analyses in 13-lox mutants. This revealed a two-tiered, paired hierarchy in which LOX6, and to a lesser extent LOX2, control most of the early-phase of jasmonate response gene expression. Jasmonates precursors produced by these two LOXs in wounded leaves are converted to active jasmonates that regulate LOX3 and LOX4 gene expression. Together with LOX2 and LOX6, and working downstream of them, LOX3 and LOX4 contribute to jasmonate synthesis that leads to the expression of the defense gene VEGETATIVE STORAGE PROTEIN2 (VSP2). LOX3 and LOX4 were also found to contribute to defense against the generalist herbivore Spodoptera littoralis. Our results reveal that 13-LOX genes are organised in a regulatory network, and the data herein raise the possibility that other genomes may encode LOXs that act as pairs.
Secure Authentication for Remote Patient Monitoring with Wireless Medical Sensor Networks
Authors: Hayajneh Thaier , Mohd Bassam , Imran Muhammad , Almashaqbeh Ghada , Vasilakos Athanasios
Published: March 2016

There is broad consensus that remote health monitoring will benefit all stakeholders in the healthcare system and that it has the potential to save billions of dollars. Among the major concerns that are preventing the patients from widely adopting this technology are data privacy and security. Wireless Medical Sensor Networks (MSNs) are the building blocks for remote health monitoring systems. This paper helps to identify the most challenging security issues in the existing authentication protocols for remote patient monitoring and presents a lightweight public-key-based authentication protocol for MSNs. In MSNs, the nodes are classified into sensors that report measurements about the human body and actuators that receive commands from the medical staff and perform actions. Authenticating these commands is a critical security issue, as any alteration may lead to serious consequences. The proposed protocol is based on the Rabin authentication algorithm, which is modified in this paper to improve its signature signing process, making it suitable for delay-sensitive MSN applications. To prove the efficiency of the Rabin algorithm, we implemented the algorithm with different hardware settings using Tmote Sky motes and also programmed the algorithm on an FPGA to evaluate its design and performance. Furthermore, the proposed protocol is implemented and tested using the MIRACL (Multiprecision Integer and Rational Arithmetic C/C++) library. The results show that secure, direct, instant and authenticated commands can be delivered from the medical staff to the MSN nodes.
Effect of Voltage Measurement on the Quantitative Identification of Transverse Cracks by Electrical Measurements
Authors: Selvakumaran Lakshmi , Lubineau Gilles
Published: March 2016

Electrical tomography can be used as a structural health monitoring technique to identify different damage mechanisms in composite laminates. Previous work has established the link between transverse cracking density and mesoscale conductivity of the ply. Through the mesoscale relationship, the conductivity obtained from electrical tomography can be used as a measure of the transverse cracking density. Interpretation of this measure will be accurate provided the assumptions made during homogenization are valid. One main assumption of mesoscale homogenization is that the electric field is in the plane. Here, we test the validity of this assumption for laminates with varying anisotropy ratios and for different distances between the cracked ply and surface that is instrumented with electrodes. We also show the equivalence in electrical response between measurements from cracked laminates and their equivalent mesoscale counterparts. Finally, we propose some general guidelines on the measurement strategy for maximizing the accuracy of transverse cracks identification.