bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential utilization of date palm wood as composite reinforcement
Authors: Almi Kenza , Benchabane Adel , Lakel Said , Kriker Abdelouahed
Published: June 2015

This research reports the results of an experimental study on the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties as well as the thermal behavior of eight varieties of date palm residues coming from the same environment. The aim is to evaluate each variety of this natural material to be used thereafter, individually or as a mixture, in the manufacturing of composite materials. The results show that Rachis variety exhibits relatively high values of tensile strength and Young’s modulus; they attained 213 MPa and 8.5 GPa, respectively. In contrast, Petiole variety exhibits relatively high values of specific mechanical properties. This is due to its low value of bulk density, which is 0.160 g/cm3. Besides that, Petiole variety is also characterized by relatively high porosity and high rate of water absorption; they reached 81.52 and 140%, respectively. Results of thermal analysis show that Leaflets variety provides the highest resistance to thermal degradation; its main degradation occurred at 360℃.
Warpage of injection-molded automotive B pillar trim fabricated with ramie fiber-reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Chen Dachuan , Lu Gang , He Liping , Li Wenjun , Yuan Jianmin
Published: June 2015

This study investigated the warpage of injection-molded automotive interior component (B pillar trim) fabricated with four types of short ramie fiber (RF) reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites with different fiber percentages, namely, 0RF/PP, 10RF/PP, 20RF/PP, and 30RF/PP. The effects of injection-molding process parameters and the fiber addition on the warpage of the component were investigated through numerical simulation using orthogonal experiment method. The results showed that packing pressure and filling time were the most important factors affecting warpage. And the minimal warpage values of the components made of 0RF/PP, 10RF/PP, 20RF/PP, and 30RF/PP were of 3.632, 3.698, 4.070, and 3.798 mm, respectively, at their own specific optimized process parameters. Additionally, fiber addition also plays an important role on the warping deformation of the component. The warpage increased first and then decreased with the increase of fiber addition, and an inflection point occurred at 20 wt% fiber addition. This is because the fiber orientation can promote the warping deformation, while the increase of composite’s modulus due to the fiber addition can hinder the warping deformation.
Calibration Adjustment of the Mid-infrared Analyzer for an Accurate Determination of the Macronutrient Composition of Human Milk
Authors: Billard Hélène , Simon Laure , Desnots Emmanuelle , Sochard Agnès , Boscher Cécile , Riaublanc Alain , Alexandre-Gouabau Marie-Cécile , Boquien Clair-Yves
Published: June 2015

Background:

Human milk composition analysis seems essential to adapt human milk fortification for preterm neonates. The Miris human milk analyzer (HMA), based on mid-infrared methodology, is convenient for a unique determination of macronutrients. However, HMA measurements are not totally comparable with reference methods (RMs).

Objective:

The primary aim of this study was to compare HMA results with results from biochemical RMs for a large range of protein, fat, and carbohydrate contents and to establish a calibration adjustment.

Methods:

Human milk was fractionated in protein, fat, and skim milk by covering large ranges of protein (0-3 g/100 mL), fat (0-8 g/100 mL), and carbohydrate (5-8 g/100 mL). For each macronutrient, a calibration curve was plotted by linear regression using measurements obtained using HMA and RMs.

Results:

For fat, 53 measurements were performed, and the linear regression equation was HMA = 0.79RM + 0.28 ( R2 = 0.92). For true protein (29 measurements), the linear regression equation was HMA = 0.9RM + 0.23 ( R2 = 0.98). For carbohydrate (15 measurements), the linear regression equation was HMA = 0.59RM + 1.86 ( R2 = 0.95). A homogenization step with a disruptor coupled to a sonication step was necessary to obtain better accuracy of the measurements. Good repeatability (coefficient of variation < 7%) and reproducibility (coefficient of variation < 17%) were obtained after calibration adjustment.

Conclusion:

New calibration curves were developed for the Miris HMA, allowing accurate measurements in large ranges of macronutrient content. This is necessary for reliable use of this device in individualizing nutrition for preterm newborns.
Optimizing multidisciplinary scaled tests in terrestrial atmosphere for extraterrestrial unmanned aerial vehicle missions
Authors: Moreno Ana I , Jarzabek Artur , González Miguel A , Perales José M
Published: June 2015

Unmanned aerial vehicles are a valid tool for exploring celestial objects that have atmosphere. The design process of these vehicles includes numerical analysis phase, which is then followed by an experimental flight test campaign in order to validate and refine the design. In terrestrial conditions, it is impossible to use the full size prototype and recreate all the conditions of extraterrestrial flight. The only option is to use a scaled model maintaining certain similarity parameters to the prototype. This would, however, not reproduce the global multidisciplinary behavior in terrestrial conditions. Alternatively, relaxing similarity constraints enables reproducing the global multidisciplinary behavior but introduces known and measurable similarity differences. The objective of this study is to provide a methodology for designing a relaxed similarity scaled model for terrestrial multidisciplinary tests for any extraterrestrial unmanned aerial vehicle. The methodology is then applied to a case scenario in order to verify its validity.
Integrated flight/propulsion optimal control for DPC aircraft based on the GA-RPS algorithm
Authors: Zhang Jing , Kang Wenwen , Li Ang , Yang Lingyu
Published: June 2015

The new distributed propulsion configuration (DPC) can effectively improve fuel efficiency and reduce pollution, but also brings in special cross-coupling effects between the flight and propulsion systems. To tackle this problem, integrated flight/propulsion modeling and optimal control of DPC with boundary layer ingestion (BLI) and supercirculation features are systematically investigated. As the basis, by taking the inherent BLI and supercirculation features into consideration, an integrated flight/propulsion model of SAX-40 is built to reflect the actual complex engine-aircraft coupling effects. Then an integrated flight/propulsion optimal control scheme is proposed to deal with the strong coupling effects and to implement the comprehensive control of redundant control surfaces as well as the distributed engines. Under this scheme, a detailed description of the optimal control problem is presented, and a novel two-stage optimization algorithm named genetic algorithm-random pattern search (GA-RPS) is proposed to solve this complex optimal problem. By the new strategies of “parallel genetic algorithm computing in sub-regions” and “random pattern search” in the GA-RPS algorithm, the optimization accuracy and convergence speed are effectively improved. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the GA-RPS algorithm and the significant performance improvement to DPC by optimization.
The urban sanitation conundrum: what can community-managed programmes in India unravel?
Authors: Das Priyam
Published: June 2015

The urban landscape in India is dotted with water and sanitation projects centred on the mantra of community participation and management. Yet there is much that remains to be learned about such projects, particularly in smaller urban centres where the pressures of urbanization are threatening to overwhelm local government efforts to provide basic services. Drawing on case studies of community-managed sewerage programmes in two cities in central India, this paper explores the status of sanitation in low-income, informal settlements and critically examines how such programmes unfold on the ground. The findings highlight lessons for future sanitation policy and programmes.
Total laparoscopic intestinal vaginoplasty as neovaginal reconstruction in an HIV-positive transgender woman
Authors: van der Sluis Wouter B , Verweij Stephan P , Özer Mujde , Meijerink Wilhelmus J , Bouman Mark-Bram
Published: June 2015

A 46-year-old, HIV-positive transgender woman of South American ethnicity consulted our outpatient clinic to discuss the possibilities of a surgical, secondary neovaginal reconstruction because of complete stenosis of her inverted penile skin-lined neovagina. She was taking abacavir/lamivudine and nevirapine as antiretroviral therapy. We successfully performed a total laparoscopic sigmoid vaginoplasty without any complications. There was no short-term morbidity and no complications were reported after 15 months of follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first report of laparoscopic sigmoid vaginoplasty as vaginal reconstruction in a HIV-positive transgender woman. Worldwide, transgender women have a high burden of HIV infection. This report shows that intestinal vaginoplasty is a feasible surgical option for HIV-positive transgender women in need of vaginal reconstruction. Because patients are again able to engage in penetrative sexual intercourse, we emphasise the importance of practicing safe sex and early initiation of adequate antiretroviral therapy in this patient population.
Early–middle Holocene relative sea-level oscillation events recorded in a submerged speleothem from the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Authors: Moseley Gina E , Richards David A , Smart Peter L , Standish Christopher D , Hoffmann Dirk L , ten Hove Harry , Vinn Olev
Published: June 2015

Geomorphological and biological archives of relative sea-level change in the western North Atlantic-Caribbean region following the Last Glacial Maximum have traditionally supported the hypothesis of a punctuated rise towards the present sea level. Such records, however, are often at insufficient resolution to discern centennial-scale changes. In caves where the water table is closely controlled by sea level, active periods of speleothem growth constraining maximum sea level, used in combination with marine overgrowths constraining minimum sea level, are a promising alternative archive recording sea-level variability at higher resolution. Here, we present a U-Th-dated early–middle Holocene speleothem record from a submerged cave on the tectonically stable Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico. Our record shows that polychaetes (Annelida, Polychaeta) colonised a sub-aerially deposited stalagmite during four individual submergence events. Submergence events occurred at approximately 8.9, 8.6, 8.4 and 6.0 ka, which we attribute to previously unrecognised minor sea-level oscillation events (OE1–OE4) above and below −6.12 ± 0.1 m relative to present sea level (r.s.l.). Combining these results with mangrove-derived relative sea-level constraints from another submerged cave on the Yucatán Peninsula, we are able to suggest that OE1 and OE2 did not reach as high as −5.26 m r.s.l., but that OE3 and OE4 exceeded −5.22 m r.s.l. We conclude that subsidence of the North American ice-load bulge was the main cause of relative sea-level rise. Superimposed on the glacio-isostatic adjustment were periods of widespread northern hemisphere cooling and ice margin re-advance, resulting in a relative sea-level fall on four occasions during the early–middle Holocene.
Amazonia and the Anthropocene: What was the spatial extent and intensity of human landscape modification in the Amazon Basin at the end of prehistory?
Authors: Piperno Dolores R , McMichael Crystal , Bush Mark B
Published: June 2015

The nature and spatial scale of prehistoric human landscape modifications in Amazonia are enduring questions. Original conceptions of the issues by archaeologists published more than 40 years ago posited little human influence because of putative environmental constraints. Empirical data accumulated more recently demonstrated dense, permanent settlements along major watercourses of the central and southern Amazon, and profound landscape alterations in seasonally flooded savanna regions of Bolivia. These results led some investigators to propose that most to all of Amazonia was heavily populated and modified before European arrival, and that prehistoric fires and forest clearing were of such a massive scale that post-Columbian reforestation was a significant contributor to decreasing atmospheric CO2 levels and the onset of the ‘Little Ice Age’. Recent data generated from investigations of soils sampled from underneath standing terra firme forests in parts of the western Amazon indicate ephemeral ancient human occupation and little vegetation disturbance there. These issues are central to ongoing discussions surrounding the classification and timing of the Anthropocene, because a geological epoch proposed on the basis of profound human alteration of environments and considerations of when during the Holocene it should begin, require robust paleo-environmental and archaeological data from major, critically important zones such as the Amazon Basin. This paper reviews debates and existing information on prehistoric human influences in Amazonia, provides new data from the western Amazon, and attempts to arrive at reasonable conclusions based on the available empirical data.
Imaging of cardiovascular complications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lin K , Lloyd-Jones D M , Li D , Liu Y , Yang J , Markl M , Carr J C
Published: June 2015

In the long-term survival of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death. Recently, multimodality cardiovascular imaging methods have been adopted for the evaluation of cardiovascular risk, which has shown to be associated with both traditional cardiovascular risk factors and SLE-specific conditions. Quantitative imaging biomarkers, which can describe both morphological and functional abnormalities in the heart, are expected to provide new insights to stratify cardiovascular risks and to guide SLE management by assessing individual responses to therapies either protecting the cardiovascular system or suppressing the autoimmune reactions. In this review, we will discuss cutting-edge cardiovascular imaging techniques and potential clinical applications and limitations of those techniques for the evaluation of major SLE-related heart disorders.
An imputation-based solution to using mismeasured covariates in propensity score analysis
Authors: Webb-Vargas Yenny , Rudolph Kara E , Lenis David , Murakami Peter , Stuart Elizabeth A
Published: June 2015

Although covariate measurement error is likely the norm rather than the exception, methods for handling covariate measurement error in propensity score methods have not been widely investigated. We consider a multiple imputation-based approach that uses an external calibration sample with information on the true and mismeasured covariates, multiple imputation for external calibration, to correct for the measurement error, and investigate its performance using simulation studies. As expected, using the covariate measured with error leads to bias in the treatment effect estimate. In contrast, the multiple imputation for external calibration method can eliminate almost all the bias. We confirm that the outcome must be used in the imputation process to obtain good results, a finding related to the idea of congenial imputation and analysis in the broader multiple imputation literature. We illustrate the multiple imputation for external calibration approach using a motivating example estimating the effects of living in a disadvantaged neighborhood on mental health and substance use outcomes among adolescents. These results show that estimating the propensity score using covariates measured with error leads to biased estimates of treatment effects, but when a calibration data set is available, multiple imputation for external calibration can be used to help correct for such bias.
Professional values of nurse lecturers at three universities in Colombia
Authors: López-Pereira Arabely , Arango-Bayer Gloria
Published: June 2015

Objective:

To describe the professional values of the nurse lectures according to 241 nursing students, who participated voluntarily, in three different universities of Bogotá.

Methodology:

This is a quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional study that applied the Nurses Professional Values Scale—permission secured—Spanish; three dimensions of values were applied: ethics, commitment, and professional knowledge.

Ethical consideration:

Project had ethical review and approval from an ethics committee and participants were given information sheets to read before they agreed to participate in the project.

Findings:

It was concluded that nursing students, in general, do perceive these values in their professors, and they give priority to the dimension of ethics, followed by the knowledge dimension, and finally, commitment.

Discussion:

It is evident that professional values are transmitted by professors and students place importance to such values. Values related to the other’s care are paramount in nursing training in Colombia as well as in other countries.

Conclusion:

It was found that participating students observed professors directly in relation to values focused on direct patient care, respect for privacy, respect for life, while matters related to professional improvement, participation in unions were not actually analyzed may be due to poor promotion activities and unions during undergraduate studies. The results obtained are primary approach to the study of values related to nursing, a topic which needs to be researched, something vital to all the country offering nursing training programs.
Solving work-related ethical problems
Authors: Laukkanen Laura , Suhonen Riitta , Leino-Kilpi Helena
Published: June 2015

Background:

Nurse managers are responsible for solving work-related ethical problems to promote a positive ethical culture in healthcare organizations.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to describe the activities that nurse managers use to solve work-related ethical problems. The ultimate aim was to enhance the ethical awareness of all nurse managers.

Research Design:

The data for this descriptive cross-sectional survey were analyzed through inductive content analysis and quantification.

Participants and research context:

The data were collected in 2011 using a questionnaire that included an open-ended question and background factors. Participants were nurse managers working in Finnish healthcare organizations (n = 122).

Ethical considerations:

Permission for the study was given by the Finnish Association of Academic Managers and Experts of Health Sciences.

Findings:

Nurse managers identified a variety of activities they use to solve work-related ethical problems: discussion (30%), cooperation (25%), work organization (17%), intervention (10%), personal values (9%), operational models (4%), statistics and feedback (4%), and personal examples (1%). However, these activities did not follow any common or systematic model.

Discussion and conclusion:

In the future, nurse managers need a more systematic approach to solve ethical problems. It is important to establish new kinds of ethics structures in organizations, such as a common, systematic ethical decision-making model and an ethics club for nurse manager problems, to support nurse managers in solving work-related ethical problems.
Development of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification targeting a gene within the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, the pdhA gene, for rapid detection of Mycoplasma gallisepticum
Authors: Zhang Fanqing , Bao Shijun , Yu Shengqing , Cheng Jinghua , Tan Lei , Qiu Xvsheng , Song Cuiping , Dai Yabin , Fei Rongmei , Ding Chan
Published: June 2015

Mycoplasma gallisepticum infections impose a significant economic burden on the poultry industry. In the current study, a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed and optimized to detect M. gallisepticum based on a gene within the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, the pdhA gene, which codes for the major subunit (E1α) in the complex. The reaction conditions were optimized, and the specificity was confirmed by successful amplification of several M. gallisepticum strains, while no amplification was detected with 20 other major bacterial and viral pathogens of poultry. Additionally, the LAMP assay achieved 10-fold higher sensitivity than an existing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. The LAMP assay was applied to swab samples collected from poultry farms and compared with PCR. The positive detection rate was 20.2% (37/183) by LAMP and 13.1% (24/183) by PCR. The LAMP assay could provide a cost-effective, quick, and sensitive method for the detection of M. gallisepticum.
The degree of acceptability of swine blood values at increasing levels of hemolysis evaluated through visual inspection versus automated quantification
Authors: Di Martino Guido , Stefani Anna Lisa , Lippi Giuseppe , Gagliazzo Laura , McCormick Wanda , Gabai Gianfranco , Bonfanti Lebana
Published: June 2015

The pronounced fragility that characterizes swine erythrocytes is likely to produce a variable degree of hemolysis during blood sampling, and the free hemoglobin may then unpredictably bias the quantification of several analytes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the degree of acceptability of values obtained for several biochemical parameters at different levels of hemolysis. Progressively increased degrees of physical hemolysis were induced in 3 aliquots of 30 nonhemolytic sera, and the relative effects on the test results were assessed. To define the level of hemolysis, we used both visual estimation (on a scale of 0 to 3+) and analytical assessment (hemolytic index) and identified the best analytical cutoff values for discriminating the visual levels of hemolysis. Hemolysis led to a variable and dose-dependent effect on the test results that was specific for each analyte tested. In mildly hemolyzed specimens, C-reactive protein, haptoglobin, β1-globulin, β2-globulin, α1-globulin, γ-globulin, sodium, calcium, and alkaline phosphatase were not significantly biased, whereas α2-globulin, albumin, urea, creatinine, glucose, total cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, nonesterified fatty acids, bilirubin, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, lipase, triglycerides, lactate dehydrogenase, unbound iron-binding capacity, and uric acid were significantly biased. Chloride and total protein were unbiased even in markedly hemolyzed samples. Analytical interference was hypothesized to be the main source of this bias, leading to a nonlinear trend that confirmed the difficulty in establishing reliable coefficients of correction for adjusting the test results.
The Use of Credit Cards in Response to the Crisis of Serious Illness
Authors: McGrath Pam
Published: June 2015

This article contributes to the literature on the financial impact of cancer by presenting findings on the use of credit cards as a response to the financial crisis of relocation for specialist treatment for patients diagnosed with a hematological malignancy. The findings are from a study, funded by the Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland, examining the financial impact of relocation for specialist treatment for hematology patients in Queensland. To date, there has been no work on financial management strategies for hematology patients or research on the use of credit cards by cancer patients. The findings on the use of credit cards as a response to the financial crisis of serious illness are discussed in terms of income profile, gender, financial management strategy, and a sense of urgency and need.
Factional stories: Creating a methodological space for collaborative reflection and inquiry in music education research
Authors: Kallio Alexis Anja
Published: June 2015

Stories have been one means by which qualitative researchers have attempted to engage participants and construct, analyze and present data or findings in a meaningful way. In this article, I look at the impetus for, and potentials of crafting and sharing researcher-written factional stories with research participants as a means to generate rich, meaningful data, and facilitate collaborative inquiry. Factional stories may be understood as a bricolage of previously collected data, analyses and fictive elements, combining research participants’ and researcher voices and presented as a short, first-person story. Through the use of factional stories in my own research study as illustration, I examine how factional stories may create a methodological space, within which participants and researcher may collaboratively construct meaning and engage in reflection, negotiation and inquiry. This article suggests that as a heuristic methodological tool, factional stories may be a particularly appropriate methodological means to attend to the complexity so often characteristic of teaching and learning music.
Working together for women’s empowerment: Strategies for interdisciplinary collaboration in perinatal care
Authors: Kwee Janelle L , McBride Hillary L
Published: June 2015

Women’s experiences of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum adjustment are often characterized by feelings of disempowerment, trauma, and emotional pain. Psychosocial perinatal care has not kept up with medical advances in perinatal care. Access to psychosocial care appears to be inadequate because of the following: (a) perinatal health care providers are insufficiently prepared to address emotional aspects of maternal care and (b) traditional, compartmentalized psychological services benefit only a subsection of perinatal women, often in an untimely manner. Practical and innovative psychosocial services, integrated into routine perinatal care, can provide widespread access to psychosocial resources for mothers and supports providers in delivering optimal care.
Effectiveness of indoor environment quality in LEED-certified healthcare settings
Authors: Xuan Xiaodong
Published: June 2015

A combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches was used to evaluate the effectiveness of LEED-certified healthcare settings from the perspectives of both staff and facility managers. This study surveyed 164 staff members in two healthcare settings in a case study to compare LEED and non-LEED-certified healthcare facilities and surveyed 146 staff in six LEED-certified healthcare settings for the main study. Telephone interviews with six facility managers were used to verify the survey results and further examine the facilities' performance and the effectiveness of the LEED strategies. An independent t-test was used to examine the difference between a LEED hospital and a non-LEED hospital in one healthcare system. Building performance was rated higher by staff in the LEED-certified hospital than in the non-LEED hospital. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was conducted to compare staff ratings between the silver and gold LEED certification levels and between males and females, as well as to explore the possibility of interaction effects. Compared with the staff in silver-certified facilities, staff members in the gold-certified hospitals gave the buildings significantly higher ratings in most performance variables, including building overall, overall comfort and controllability. Males felt more comfortable than females with temperatures in healthcare facilities.
Indoor radon concentration in hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon pertaining areas across the Main Boundary Thrust in Attock district of Pakistan
Authors: Qadir Atwar , Tufail Muhammad , Qadir Anwar , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin
Published: June 2015

The areas pertaining the hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon in the Attock district of Pakistan were selected for the measurement of indoor radon concentration. This area was not previously surveyed for such kind of study. CR-39-based NRPB radon dosimeters were utilized for this study. Attock city, Hassan Abdal and Jand belong to the non-hydrocarbon areas, where radon concentration was measured to be 57 ± 11, 58 ± 11 and 56 ± 11 Bq m−3, respectively. The hydrocarbon pertaining areas consist of Toot and Meyal villages, the concentration of radon was found to be 48 ± 10 and 37 ± 8 Bq m−3, respectively. The cap rock in the geological structures of the hydrocarbon areas may have restricted the migration of underneath radon. The annual effective dose in the studied locations was estimated to be 1.28 ± 0.25 mSv y−1, which is less than the action level recommended by the ICRP. Estimated excess lung cancer risks per million persons per year in the surveyed area show higher values 96, 69, 32–110 and 41–124 as compared to the world average reported by the BEIR-IV (1988), ICRP (1987), US-EPA (1986) and UNSCEAR (1993) models, respectively. Present results could be used as a reference for any future studies in Pakistan for the problems of radon emissions with respect to the types of rocks.
Indoor radon and gamma spectrometric measurements for the Erzincan Basin on North Anatolian Fault Zone, Turkey
Authors: Kucukomeroglu B. , Ozturk E. , Damla N. , Celik N. , Duran S. Uzun , Cevik U. , Taskin H. , Albayrak N.
Published: June 2015

Indoor radon and soil radioactivity levels were determined for Erzincan province in Turkey. Indoor radon concentrations were determined in 89 dwellings using CR-39 passive Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors (SSNTDs) for four seasons. The mean annual 222Rn activity concentration was found to be 119 Bq.m−3. In the winter season, indoor radon concentrations showed the highest values while the lowest values were observed in the summer season. A model was used to predict the number of lung cancer incidences due to inhalation of radon. The findings have indicated that radon is responsible for 13% of lung cancer incidences occurring in the Erzincan province. Since indoor radon concentration correlates with 226Ra content in soil beneath the dwellings, soil samples were collected near the houses where indoor radon measurements were performed in order to seek a correlation. The 226Ra, 232Th, 40K and 137Cs activity concentration values were 52, 26, 649 and 9 Bq.kg−1, respectively. The annual effective dose due to naturally occurring radionuclides was around 82 µSv.y−1 which is higher than the world average value of 70 µSv.y−1. The results of the present study are expected to be a useful baseline data for future studies.
The Answer Isn’t Always a Poster
Authors: Askelson Natoshia M. , Golembiewski Elizabeth H. , DePriest Ann M. , O’Neill Patti , Delger Patti J. , Scheidel Carrie A.
Published: June 2015

This article describes the formative research and development of a social marketing intervention to promote school breakfast in the U.S. state of Iowa. The project involved a collaborative effort between a university research team, a state department of education, and three high schools in the state over the course of the 2013–2014 school year. A participatory approach guided by Greene’s Theory of Active Involvement was used to engage directly with adolescent students. Specifically, the research team used concept mapping as a means of exploring perceived barriers, benefits, and motivators related to school breakfast participation. The results indicated a need for increased awareness about school breakfast in conjunction with guidance for food service directors in making changes to school breakfast and breakfast promotion. The findings directly related to price, promotion, product, and place. Students identified a channel and student-generated ideas informed Twitter and best practices guidebooks for school food service directors.
Antitumor Effects of Purified Protosappanin B Extracted From Lignum Sappan
Authors: Yang Xihua , Ren Liansheng , Zhang Shengwan , Zhao Lili , Wang Jing
Published: June 2015

Hypothesis. To assess the antitumor effects of protosappanin B extracted from Lignum Sappan. Study Design. Lignum Sappan was sequentially extracted by boiling water and ethyl acetate. The resulting extract was separated by column chromatography, to yield protosappanin B. The compound was then identified by thin-layer chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography, elemental analysis, and spectrometry (infrared and ultraviolet). The effects on tumor cell viability and growth of purified protosappanin B were evaluated in vitro by trypan blue exclusion and MTT assays, respectively. And the effects of protosappanin B were assessed in vivo, on H22 mouse liver cancer cell invasion and the survival of tumor-bearing mice. Results. Protosappanin B (2 mg/mL) reduced the viability of human bladder cancer T24 cells and mouse bladder cancer BTT cells in a time-dependent manner ( P < .05) and significantly inhibited the growth of the human colon cancer cell lines HCT-116 and SW-480. IC50 values of 21.32, 26.73, and 76.53 µg/mL were obtained for SW-480, HCT-116, and BTT cells, respectively, after 48 hours of treatment with protosappanin B. In addition, pretreatment of H22 cells with protosappanin B (final concentration = 6.25 mg/mL) resulted in complete inhibition of tumor formation in KM mice. Furthermore, protosappanin B (200 and 300 mg/kg) significantly increased the survival of BTT tumor-bearing T739 mice, at a rate comparable to that of 1 mg/kg mitomycin. Conclusion. Protosappanin B extracted from Lignum Sappan exerts marked antitumor effects both in vitro and in vivo.
Aquatic High Intensity Interval Training for Cardiometabolic Health
Authors: Nagle Elizabeth F. , Sanders Mary E. , Franklin Barry A.
Published: June 2015

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has emerged as an attractive alternative to traditional continuous exercise training (CT) programs for clinical and healthy populations who find that they can achieve equal or greater fitness benefits in less time. Land-based HIIT may not be an appropriate choice for some participants. Few studies have explored the acute responses and chronic adaptations of HIIT in an aquatic environment, and no study has compared the cardiometabolic responses of an aquatic-based program to a land-based HIIT program. Shallow-water aquatic exercise (AE) programs utilizing HIIT have elicited comparable and, in some cases, greater physiological responses compared with constant-intensity or continuous AE regimens. Factors that may explain why HIIT routines evoke greater cardiometabolic responses than CT protocols may be based on the types of exercises and how they are cued to effectively manipulate hydrodynamic properties for greater intensities. Favorable aquatic HIIT protocols such as the S.W.E.A.T. system may serve as a beneficial alternative to land-based HIIT programs for clinical, and athletic populations, potentially reducing the likelihood of associated musculoskeletal and orthopedic complications. Hence, the purpose of this review is to examine the role of AE as an alternative safe and effective HIIT modality.
The value of a new image classification system for planning treatment and prognosis of spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection
Authors: Xiong Jiang , Wu Zhongyin , Guo Wei , Liu Xiaoping , Wang Lijun , Zhang Hongpeng , Jia Xin , Ma Xiaohui
Published: June 2015

Objective

To aid diagnosis of spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection and planning management, we investigated the role of classification of features as observed on computed tomography angiography images.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted, comprising computed tomography angiography images and clinical data of 28 consecutive patients with spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection. Based on the computed tomography angiography images, a new classification for spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection was proposed. Patients with intestinal ischemia not relieved or worsened after 10 days of conservative treatment underwent surgery or stenting. All patients were followed up with computed tomography angiography.

Results

Spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection was categorized into five types (I–V). Type III was further divided into subtypes IIIa–IIIc. Spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection IIIa and IV typified nine (32.1%) and seven (25%) patients, respectively. Six (21.4%) patients had aortic or branch artery abnormalities and 21 (78%) showed prior intestinal ischemia. Four (14.3%) patients had intestinal ischemia and underwent surgery or stenting.

Conclusions

Spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection type IIIa is more likely to occur than other types. Long-term computed tomography angiography follow-up is valuable for determining treatment strategy for spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection. Conservative therapy with anticoagulants is recommended for five days, and surgery or stenting should be considered if symptoms of intestinal ischemia are not relieved. Stent implantation provides relatively satisfactory mid-term outcome for true lumen construction of the superior mesenteric artery.
A preventive replacement policy based on system critical condition
Authors: Yun Won Young , Endharta Alfonsus Julanto
Published: June 2015

The article considers a linear consecutive- k-out-of- n: F system and a linear connected-( r, s)-out-of-( m, n): F system. It is assumed that the components are identical and the failure times of components follow an exponential distribution. The system is continuously monitored and the component failure can be known at any time. A preventive maintenance policy is proposed, and it is based on the system critical condition which is related to the number of working components in the minimal cut sets of the system. If there is at least one minimal cut set which consists of only one working component, the system is maintained preventively after a certain time interval and the failed components are replaced with the new ones to prevent the system failures. The expected cost rate is used as an optimization criterion. The expected cost rate is estimated by simulation and numerical examples are studied. The numerical analyses are exploratory and not generalizable.
The apolitics of memory: Remembering military service under Pinochet through and alongside transitional justice, truth, and reconciliation
Authors: Passmore Leith
Published: June 2015

Approximately 370,000 young men served as conscripted soldiers during the Pinochet dictatorship. Recruits were at times complicit in, witnesses to, or victims of human rights abuses committed under military rule. Memory of conscription for a long time was hidden behind silence maintained by fear, confusion, shame, anger, alcohol, and drugs. In the mid 2000s, however, ex-conscripts began to gather into groups that functioned first as support networks, and later as advocacy organizations pushing for recognition as victims and for reparations. By 2013, nearly 100,000 former recruits had mobilized. This article historicizes the conscript memory narrative of victimhood that emerged with the ex-conscript movement of the early twenty-first century. It examines the relationship between ex-conscripts’ memory of military rule, transitional justice, and the state-led truth and reconciliation process. Chile’s “politics of memory” provided catalysts and cues for ex-conscript memory, but neither of the competing shared memory frameworks have been unable to accommodate the former recruits’ sense of victimhood. Ex-conscript memory is not bound by a common political identity or interpretation of the 1973 coup or the 17 years of military rule. The “apolitics of memory” have instead ensured that ex-conscripts remember military service under Pinochet not within but rather alongside the country’s politicized memoryscape.
Surgical treatment of acute distal radioulnar joint instability associated with distal radius fractures
Authors: Gong H. S. , Cho H. E. , Kim J. , Kim M. B. , Lee Y. H. , Baek G. H.
Published: June 2015

This study investigates the question of whether open repair of acute distal radioulnar joint instability at the time of volar plating of distal radius fractures would enable early mobilization of the wrist without the risk of distal radioulnar joint instability. We evaluated 29 patients of mean age 53 years with a distal radius fracture and acute distal radioulnar joint instability who underwent volar plating of the radius combined with surgical repair of the triangular fibrocartilage complex or an ulnar styloid base fracture, followed by active motion exercise of the wrist at 1 week after surgery. At 1 year after treatment, all patients had a stable distal radioulnar joint and grip strength averaged 90% of the normal side. This study demonstrates that surgical repair of the triangular fibrocartilage complex or ulnar styloid fracture followed by early mobilization did not result in distal radioulnar joint instability, and suggests that the surgical treatment of distal radioulnar joint instability may permit early mobilization of the wrist in patients who are considered suitable for rapid rehabilitation after surgery.

Type of study: Therapeutic Level IV
Audit: Using data to drive improvement
Authors: Brown Benjamin , Peek Niels
Published: June 2015

Being proficient during an audit is a key part of being a doctor. There is a growing body of evidence that describes how an audit can be effectively undertaken; however, this is rarely put into practice. This article aims to provide you with practical advice on how to effectively undertake an audit, based on the most up-to-date evidence.
Hospitality Service Innovations in Private Clubs
Authors: Randhawa Praneet , Kim MiRan , Voorhees Clay M. , Cichy Ronald F. , Koenigsfeld Jason P. , Perdue Joe
Published: June 2015

Service innovation positions an organization to create and deliver anticipatory service that exceeds member expectations and ultimately strengthens relationships. However, service innovation remains one of the most under-researched topics in hospitality. This study begins to fill that gap by exploring the strategies and factors that drive service innovation in the private club industry. Drawing insights from approximately 700 critical incidents reported by private club general managers/chief operating officers, we examined the common strategies and factors that assist clubs in developing and launching new services and products. Moreover, we also categorize pressing issues in the industry that are ripe for future innovation. The findings may have implications not only for the club industry but also for the hospitality industry in general.
Soccer Players and Their Media-Related Behavior
Authors: Birkner Thomas , Nölleke Daniel
Published: June 2015

Using the concept of mediatization, in this article, we analyze the relationship between sport and media from a sport-centered perspective. Examining the autobiographies of 14 German and English soccer players, we investigate how athletes use media outlets, what they perceive as the media’s influence and its logic, and—crucially—how this usage and these perceptions affect their own media-related behavior. Our findings demonstrate the important role of the media for the sports systems from the athlete’s point of view and demonstrate the research potential of mediatization as a fruitful concept in studies on sport communication. On the one hand, the sport stars reflect in their autobiographies that their status and income depend on media coverage; and on the other hand, they complain about the omnipresence of the media, especially offside the pitch and feel unfairly treated by the tabloid press, both in England and in Germany.
A 3-Dimensional Anatomic Study of the Distal Biceps Tendon
Authors: Walton Christine , Li Zhi , Pennings Amanda , Agur Anne , Elmaraghy Amr
Published: June 2015

Background

Complete rupture of the distal biceps tendon from its osseous attachment is most often treated with operative intervention. Knowledge of the overall tendon morphology as well as the orientation of the collagenous fibers throughout the musculotendinous junction are key to intraoperative decision making and surgical technique in both the acute and chronic setting. Unfortunately, there is little information available in the literature.

Purpose

To comprehensively describe the morphology of the distal biceps tendon.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

The distal biceps terminal musculature, musculotendinous junction, and tendon were digitized in 10 cadaveric specimens and data reconstructed using 3-dimensional modeling.

Results

The average length, width, and thickness of the external distal biceps tendon were found to be 63.0, 6.0, and 3.0 mm, respectively. A unique expansion of the tendon fibers within the distal muscle was characterized, creating a thick collagenous network along the central component between the long and short heads.

Conclusion

This study documents the morphologic parameters of the native distal biceps tendon. Reconstruction may be necessary, especially in chronic distal biceps tendon ruptures, if the remaining tendon morphology is significantly compromised compared with the native distal biceps tendon. Knowledge of normal anatomical distal biceps tendon parameters may also guide the selection of a substitute graft with similar morphological characteristics.

Clinical Relevance

A thorough description of distal biceps tendon morphology is important to guide intraoperative decision making between primary repair and reconstruction and to better select the most appropriate graft. The detailed description of the tendinous expansion into the muscle may provide insight into better graft-weaving and suture-grasping techniques to maximize proximal graft incorporation.
Does Assisted Living Capacity Influence Case Mix at Nursing Homes?
Authors: Clement Jan P. , Khushalani Jaya
Published: June 2015

Assisted living facilities (ALFs) have grown over the past few decades. If they attract residents with lower care needs away from nursing homes (NHs), NHs may be left with higher case mix residents. We study the relationship between ALF bed market capacity and NH case mix in a state (Virginia) where ALF bed capacity stabilized after a period of growth. Similarly, NH capacity and use had been stable. While it is interesting to study markets in flux, for planning purposes, it is also important to examine what happens after periods of turbulence and adaptation. Our findings show some substitution of ALF for NH care, but the relationship is not linear with ALF market capacity. Communities need to consider the interplay of ALFs and NHs in planning for long-term care services and supports. Policies supporting ALFs may enable care needs to be met in a lower cost setting than the NH.
Effect of energy transfer modes on solidification cracking in pulsed laser welding
Authors: Chelladurai A. M. , Gopal K. A. , Murugan S. , Albert S. K. , Venugopal S. , Jayakumar T.
Published: June 2015

In this study, solidification cracking in pulsed laser welding of fully austenitic, AISI Type 316 stainless steel has been analysed at different energy transfer modes. The pulse parameters have been selected appropriately to obtain conduction, transition and keyhole mode welds. Conduction and transition mode welds exhibit higher susceptibility to cracking than keyhole mode welds. It is observed that both heat input and energy transfer mode affect the cooling rate and hence influence solidification cracking. Microstructures of the fusion zone have been analysed, and the cooling rate experienced by the weld is estimated from the mean cell size in the weld. It is found that the critical cooling rate below which cracking does not occur is ∼104 K s− 1.
Effect of laser path overlap on surface roughness and hardness of layer in laser cladding
Authors: Tanigawa D. , Abe N. , Tsukamoto M. , Hayashi Y. , Yamazaki H. , Tatsumi Y. , Yoneyama M.
Published: June 2015

A Ni–Cr–Si–B alloy coating was produced on a type 304 stainless steel plate by laser cladding. A diode laser with a flat-top beam profile was used in this experiment. The effects of focused laser spot overlap on surface roughness (Ra) and Vickers hardness were investigated. Ra and the Vickers hardness of the cladding layers decreased as the overlap ratio increased. Cladding layers that maintained a hardness comparable to that of the source powder material were produced at overlap ratios of < 70%.