bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPLEMENTASI TOLERANSI BERAGAMA DI PONDOK PESANTREN DARUT TAQWA PASURUAN
Authors: Rahmawati Erik Sabti , Satria M. Hatta
Published: January 2016

This  Research  was aimed  to determine the construct and  implementation  of the concept of religious tolerance in Darut Taqwa boarding school Pasuruan led by Kyai Sholeh  Bahruddin. This study used a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, whereas the method of  data collection used  in-depth interviews and documentation. The results of this study showed that: Construct of Kyai Sholeh thought about pluralism and religious tolerance, which is also the foundation for the policy programs at Darut Taqwa boarding school, can be categorized in the inclusive of thought and  attitude, which is believe in the existence of truth and salvation  of other religions but the highest safety standards of truth remain in their own religion. Kyai Sholeh while promoting the truth of Islam as a religion, but He did not reduce its respect for other religions  and not be an impediment to establishing religious tolerance in public life.  Kyai  Sholeh  thought  of religious tolerance is also well applied in  His policies  in managing the boarding school and formal education institutions, which is able to be a reflection of Islam and Islamic  boarding school which are inclusive and rahmatan lil alamin.
PERUBAHAN PENGATURAN PERUNTUKAN KAWASAN DALAM HUKUM PENATAAN RUANG (Studi Politik Hukum Atas Kebijakan Penataan Ruang Kota Malang)
Authors: Wahjuono Tulus
Published: January 2016

This research aims to analyze the changes of area designation rule of spatial law in Malang, its causes, and its implications for legal politics. This research used a juridical-empirical approach. Data analyzed using interactive and content analysis. The results showed that the changes of area designation rule of spatial law in Malang based on a factors of spatial law issues and its deviation in the field, both legal and non-legal condition. The changes of area designation rule of spatial law in Malang which are not based on the principle of good environmental governance had an impact on legal politics that not aligned the product of spatial law to both progressive law nor responsive law. It will lose its legitimacy, either philosophical, juridical, and sociological in the society.
REGULASI WAKAF DI INDONESIA PASCA KEMERDEKAAN DITINJAU DARI STATUTE APPROACH
Authors: Sudirman Sudirman
Published: January 2016

This Article focusing on wakaf regulation in Indonesia after its independence day. The research used statute approach, it also used regulation No. 5 Year 1960 and regulation No. 41 Year 2004 as its primary legal source. In analyzing data it used three legal basis; Lex Superior Derogat Legi Inferiori, Lex Specialis Derogat Legi Generali, and Lex Posterior Derogat Legi Priori.  Firstly, it concludes that the background of regulating the wakaf regulation in Indonesia was conducted because of public needs to a special regulation which can rules wakaf and its legal contemporary development. Secondly, the comparison of wakaf regulations regulated from post-independence until reformation era explained that in the first concept of wakaf and its implementation opportunity was realized in The Reg. 5/1960. But the concept of Nâdzir firstly introduced in Gov. Regulation No. 28/1977 and established by the Indonesian compilation of Islamic Law. Thirdly, penal punishment changes, and according to statute approach analysis using those three legal basis, the Reg. 41/2004 is the most updated wakaf regulation in Indonesia.
The Decline in Swedish Union Density since 2007
Authors: Kjellberg Anders
Published: January 2016

Union density remains very high in Sweden. The significantly raised fees for union unemployment funds in January 2007 were followed by an unprecedented decline in the number of union members in modern Swedish history. In the course of two years union density dropped by 6 percentage points: from 77% in 2006 to 71% in 2008. As a result, the density of employers' associations today is much higher than union density. The article below describes and analyzes union decline among different groups of workers and why it was not difficult to foresee this development when the center-right government sharply raised membership contributions to finance the state-subsidized Swedish unemployment insurance. From July 2008 the government more closely linked fund fees to the unemployment rate for each fund, thus differentiating fund fees between different groups of employees. Since the subsequent economic crisis hit private sector blue-collar workers harder than other employees, the differentiation of fees was further widened. As a consequence, total union fees (including fund fees) also varied more by time and between different categories of workers, which in turn was reflected in the development of union density. From 2006 to 2010 blue-collar density fell by 8 percentage points compared to the 4-point decline among white-collar workers. In contrast to the depression of the 1990s, union density did not increase when unemployment increased rapidly from 2008 to 2009. The article also discusses why the government failed to achieve its main goal of changing the financing system of unemployment insurance: to influence wage formation.
Sick Leave—A Signal of Unequal Work Organizations? Gender perspectives on work environment and work organizations in the health care sector: a knowledge review
Authors: Vänje Annika
Published: January 2016

The background to this article review is governmental interest in finding reasons why a majority of the employees in Sweden who are on sick leave are women. In order to find answers to these questions three issues will be discussed from a meso-level: (i) recent changes in the Swedish health care sector’s working organization and their effects on gender, (ii) what research says about work health and gender in the health care sector, and (iii) the meaning of gender at work. The aim is to first discuss these three issues to give a picture of what gender research says concerning work organization and work health, and second to examine the theories behind the issue. In this article the female-dominated health care sector is in focus. This sector strives for efficiency relating to invisible job tasks and emotional work performed by women. In contemporary work organizations gender segregation has a tendency to take on new and subtler forms. One reason for this is today’s de-hierarchized and flexible organizations. A burning question connected to this is whether new constructions of masculinities and femininities really are ways of relating to the prevailing norm in a profession or are ways of deconstructing the gender order. To gain a deeper understanding of working life we need multidisciplinary research projects where gender-critical knowledge is interwoven into research not only on organizations, but also into research concerning the physical work environment, in order to be able to develop good and sustainable work environments, in this case in the health care sector
Assessment in the legal and medical domain: two sides of a coin
Authors: Van der Vleuten Cees P. M.
Published: January 2016

It has been such an honour to read the assessment papers in legal education that were written with an earlier paper of mine (C. P. Van der Vleuten & Schuwirth, 2005) as a frame of reference. The papers provide an excellent insight in a number of assessment practices in different law schools. Very striking were the similarities of the issues that are discussed from the legal domain to my own domain, the field of medicine. The papers are addressing notions of reflections, reflective practice, the importance of learning (and assessing) in context (either simulated or real) developing professional competences, definitions of professional competence, the relevance of general skills (professionalism, ethics, values, altruism, empathy, client-centeredness, managing themselves and others in work), and new approaches to assessment (journals, portfolios, extracted examples of work, observation, think-aloud in practice and holistic approaches to assessment). All these notions completely resonate with developments in the medical domain. For this contribution I thought of summarizing some recent developments in the medical domain having relevance to all these topics: competency frameworks, assessment of performance in context, reflection, and programmatic assessment. This is meant merely as an informative mirror on what happens in this other domain.
Premature Consolidation with Resultant Implant Failure Using PRECICE Femoral Nail Lengthening
Authors: Morrison Todd A. , Sontich John K.
Published: January 2016

Case:

Posttraumatic limb-length discrepancies secondary to femoral malunion can be treated with a variety of external or internal lengthening systems. The PRECICE nail is an intramedullary device featuring an external remote control to activate a magnetically driven internal distraction mechanism. While this intramedullary system avoids the soft-tissue complications common to external lengthening, it has unique mechanisms of failure that are difficult to diagnose and that require a systematic approach.

Conclusion:

In this case report, we describe a failure to lengthen with the PRECICE femoral nail and the subsequent steps taken to determine the root cause. We believe that this failure represents the first reported case of malfunction of the PRECICE femoral nail distraction mechanism since its 2013 redesign.
Slope morphologies offshore Dakhla (SW Moroccan margin)
Authors: Benabdellouahed Massinissa , Baltzer Agnes , Rabineau Marina , Aslanian Daniel , Sahabi Mohamed , Germond Fabien , Loubrieu Benoit , Biari Youssef
Published: January 2016

This study explores a portion of the West African margin at the junction between two well-known segments offshore Dakhla and offshore Mauritania with destructional architecture characterized by giant slides. In between these two segments, the Dakhla segment has historically been described as a constructional section. During an oceanographic Dakhla cruise (2002), high resolution seismic data, swath bathymetry and imagery were acquired around latitude 23°N, offshore Dakhla. This new data set reveals the existence of varied and complex morphologies on the continental slope, interpreted as a “shallot-shaped” canyon, seafloor depressions or pockmarks, ridges and scarps. These morphologies are interpreted as clues of sedimentary transfers and rupture processes. A scenario is proposed for the development of these different sedimentary morphologies.
Ex situ protection of the European mudminnow (Umbra krameri Walbaum, 1792): Spawning substrate preference for larvae rearing under controlled conditions
Authors: Kucska Balázs , Kabai Péter , Hajdú Juraj , Várkonyi Levente , Varga Dániel , Müllerné-Trenovszki Magdolna , Tatár Sándor , Urbányi Béla , Zarski Daniel , Müller Tamás
Published: January 2016

Captive breeding programs of endangered fish species, such as the European
mudminnow Umbra krameri, are essential for population restoration. To improve
captive spawning and larvae rearing under controlled conditions, two
experiments were carried out. In the first, the spawning substrate preference
was tested in triplicate, where five different types of artificial surface
were provided for mudminnow pairs:(i)sand, (ii)artificial plants,
(iii)gravel, (iv)sand + artificial plants and(v)gravel + artificial plants.
All fish preferred the gravel + artificial plant combination, which indicates
that this type of surface could be the most appropriate for spawning in
captivity. In the second trial, three feeding protocols were tested in
triplicate under controlled conditions. In the first treatment fish were fed
exclusively with Artemia nauplii; in the second treatment fish were fed with
Artemiafor the first ten days then Artemia was gradually replaced with dry
feed; for the third group the transition period started after 5 days of
Artemia feeding. Although the survival rate of larvae could be maintained at
a high level in some of the feeding protocols, a strong decrease in the
growth rate was obvious in all diets containing dry food, which means that
live food is essential for the first three weeks of mudminnow larvae
rearing.
Prevention of Tuberculosis cross infection; in the process of nursing care
Authors: Katanekwa Situmbeko N. , Dahlback Elizabeth
Published: January 2016

Nosocomial transmission of TB to healthcare workers (HCWs) is an issue of present interest. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have recommended infection control measures such as respiratory isolation rooms with negative pressure for patients with productive cough and use of personal respiratory protective equipment ,i.e. respirators. Different  infection control measures, usually administrative and engineering simultaneously, have been implemented in industrialized countries and resulted in reduced nosocomial tuberculosis transmission, (Jensen PA et al,2005).The implementation of all these measures maybe neither feasible nor cost-effective in resource-limited nations,(Harries AD et al,1997). In particular, engineering measures such as negative pressure isolation rooms with high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters maybe unaffordable. However scientifically proved modifications based on Infection Prevention and Control measures can be applied, and studies have proved their efficacy in resource-limited nations, (Lowbury Lecture, 2007).The study used Scientific Articles to; (1) highlight statistics and prevalence of occupationally contracted TB, (2)Discuss the preventive measures and their efficacy from multidisciplinary perspective and in the nursing care process, in developed and developing countries and (3)Emphasize the use of safe practice in nursing practice.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 9-14
Potential role of apolipoprotein B/A1 ration in obese and non-obese female patients of coronary artery disease
Authors: Mahto Sunita , Sharma Suman Bala , Dwivedi Shridhar , Sethi Mani , Saxena Rahul
Published: January 2016

Background: Obesity and hyperlipidemia are considered to be risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Many patients who develop coronary artery disease (CAD) are non obese and have normal lipoprotein cholesterol. Assessment of apolipoproteins can improve future risk of cardiovascular complications.Aims and Objectives: We have investigated effect of weight in relation with lipoprotein and apolipoprotein levels as efficient marker of CAD in North Indian females.Materials and Methods: The study population consist of 90 subjects categorized into three groups:  Group I: Healthy controls; Group 2: Non obese patients of CAD and Group 3: Obese patients of CAD (n= 30 each group). Serum lipid profile along with apolipoprotein B and A1 were measured and apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio were calculated.Result: Total cholesterol and triglycerides levels were significantly high in obese patients as compared to non-obese and controls. LDL-C and HDL-C were altered insignificantly (p<0.1) in Group 2 and Group 3 as compared to Group 1. Apo B and apo A1 were significantly high in obese and non-obese CAD patients as compared to controls whereas insignificant difference was observed (p<0.1) when Group 3 patients were compared with Group 2. ApoB/Apo A1 ratio was increased significantly (p<0.01)) in patient groups as compared to controls. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Conclusion: Although LDL-C and HDL-C were normal in subjects of CAD, increase in Apo B, A1 and its ratio authenticates the fact that these markers are more efficient in detection of CAD risk in obese and non obese patients than conventional lipid profile parameters.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 18-22
Anticonvulsant activity of Nigella sativa, Aegle marmelos and Benincasa hispida in Pentylenetetrazole induced seizure in Swiss albino mice
Authors: Edavan Puthallath Rejeesh , Joseph Lovelyn , Kademane Kumaraswamy , Narayan Rao Sudarshanram
Published: January 2016

Aims and Objectives: To test anticonvulsant properties of three medicinal plants with pentylenetetrazole induced seizure test in Swiss albino mice.Materials and Methods: Herbs selected for the work (leaves of Aegle marmelos, seed of Nigella sativa, and fruit of Benincasa hispida) were collected locally from Mangalore, India and were authenticated by a Taxonomist. Aqueous extract of Aegle marmelos leaves (AmAE) and  Ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa seeds (NsEE) were prepared by Soxhlet extraction and separated from solvent using a water bath. Benincasa hispidafruit juice (BhE) was filtered and dried on a water bath. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the test extracts were done with Preliminary chemical reaction tests, and Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Male Swiss albino mice, 3-4 months of age, weighing 25-30g were used in the study. Extracts and vehicle were administered orally 1 hour prior to inducing convulsions. Test employed for screening anticonvulsant properties was Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced seizure test [60mg/kg/i.p]. Animals were treated with extracts at a dose of 900mg/kg orally. The results were compared with control group and test for analysis of variance and significance were done (ANOVA, Dunnett’s test).Results: Aqueousextract of Aeglemarmelos leaves and Ethanolic extract of Nigella sativa seeds possess anticonvulsant property in Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced seizure model, Crude extract of Benincasahispida fruits did not show statistically signifi cant anticonvulsant property.Conclusions: Aeglemarmelos leaf and Nigella sativa seed possess anticonvulsant propertiesin pentylenetetrazole induced seizures, this is in accordance with many other publishedreports on the same herbs with different animal models and indicates effectiveness inhuman absence seizure patients.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 97-102
Clinicopathologic study of breast lumps in Abakaliki, South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ugwu-Olisa Ogbuanya Aloysius , Nnamdi Anyanwu Stanley , Gregory Nwigwe Chinedu , Festus Iyare
Published: January 2016

Aims and Objectives: Breast lumps are quite common, but the principal issue is differentiating malignant from the benign sub-groups. The determinants of histologic diagnosis are multifactorial, ranging from environmental, genetic to sex and age-related factors. This study aimed to document the spectrum of breast lumps in our environment.Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive prospective analysis of consecutive breast lumps biopsied at Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, between December 2010 to November 2012. The data were analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 22.0Results: A total of 302 patients with 359 breast lumps were seen, 298 females and 4 males giving male: female ratio of 1:75.The ages of the patients ranged between 16-82 years with a mean of 37.0 +/- SD 13.0. Majority (56.3%) of the patients had benign lumps. Fibroadenoma was the commonest (33.8%), followed closely by invasive ductal carcinoma (32.8%), then fibrocystic change (17.2%).The occurrence of breast cancer was strongly age-related, being 1 in 5 biopsies at 20-29 years and 3 in 5 biopsies at 40-49 years age groups. Over two-third (69.0%) of 132 patients with breast cancers were premenopausal. Majority (78.8%) of the 132 patients with breast cancer presented with advanced disease. At a median follow up of 9 months,13 (9.8%) and 6(4.5%) of 132 cancer patients developed recurrences and new cancer sites respectively.Conclusion: Most patients with breast complaints present with lumps and majority are benign, fibroadenoma being the commonest histology. Occurrence of breast cancer is strongly age-related with majority of cancer patients presenting late.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 58-64
Ekbom syndrome, an evidence based review of literature
Authors: Lutfi Ahmed M
Published: January 2016

Delusional Parasitosis (DP) is a Psychocutaneous disorder that was 1st described in the late 17th century in France. The etiology is neuro-chemical. The classic “matchbox” and “specimen” signs are characteristic. Management is via a multidisciplinary approach. This review paper is based on detailed systematic review of literature via an up-to-date evidence based approach. This paper reviews: Historical facts, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, subtypes, associated diseases, psychosocial impact, economic considerations and management. An exhaustive search strategy was utilized across five medical literature databases led by 62 pre-specified keywords, followed by database-specific filters’ application to scrutinize the hierarchy of literature, from systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials to medical papers with weak evidence. Forty references were utilized to extract the most relevant data. This review article is level II-3 (level of evidence); it will enable the researcher to obtain a perspective of DP, upon which an original research can be developed.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 1-8
Evaluation, management and outcome of upper urinary tract transitional cell carcinoma – A five year single center experience
Authors: Puvvada Sandeep , Nayak Arvind K. , Patil Avinash B. , Ramesh D. , Mylarappa Prasad
Published: January 2016

Aims and Objectives: To review a single centre experience in the evaluation, management and outcome of upper tract transitional cell carcinoma. Materials and Methods: We reviewed 18 cases over five years from January 2010 to October 2015 with a median follow up of 18 months. Patient characteristics including age, sex, symptoms and signs were reviewed. All patients were evaluated with ultrasound and contrast enhanced computerized tomography.  Tumour details including location, laterality, grade and stage was noted based on pathological findings.Results: The mean age of the patients included was 57 years. Most common presentation was haematuria (72%). Most common location of the tumours was renal pelvis (50%), followed by ureter (39%) and tumours in both renal pelvis and ureter in 11%. Concomitant bladder involvement was seen in 17% of the patients. Nephroureterectomy with excision of bladder cuff was the most common surgery performed (78%). 11% of the patients underwent renal sparing surgery and two other patients underwent nephroureterocystoprostatectomy. Morbidity rate was 22% and recurrence was seen in 16% of the patientsConclusion: Transitional cell carcinoma of the upper tract is a rare tumour which is known for its multicentricity and recurrence. .  Nephroureterectomy with excision of bladder cuff has been the gold standard for the management, although endosurgical and tumour sparing surgery in selected cases have proven to be equally efficacious. Tumour grade and surgical procedure performed are independent risk factors for recurrence.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 84-88
The accuracy of severity assessment tools designed for community acquired pneumonia among elderly patients with hospital acquired pneumonia
Authors: Rasheedy Doha
Published: January 2016

Background: Pneumonia severity assessment is an essential initial step in the evaluation of patients with community acquired pneumonia. Many validated severity assessment tools were designed for use in this setting. However, there is no disease based validated scoring system are in use for hospital acquired pneumonia.Aims and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the validity for the use of PSI, CURB-65, and SMART-COP scores in elderly with hospital acquired pneumonia.Materials and Methods: Thirty patients with hospital acquired pneumonia and 41 patients with community acquired pneumonia were assessed using PSI, CURB-65, and SMART-COP scores. Short term outcomes were recorded i.e. in hospital mortality, or 30 days mortality and the need for mechanical ventilation or vasopressor drugs.Results: The 30 day mortality was 66.67% and 41.5% among HAP and CAP patients respectively. In both groups, the patients who died were older than the survivors; they had lower partial pressure of oxygen and Glasgow Coma Scale score. Moreover, they had higher heart rate and higher PSI, CURB 65, and SMART- COP scores. Among patient with community acquired pneumonia survivors had higher serum albumin while among patient with hospital acquired pneumonia, the survivors had lower fasting blood glucose.Conclusion: PSI predicted 30 day mortality and the use of mechanical ventilation but not the use of vasopressor drugs in hospital acquired pneumonia. SMART- COP and CURB 65 predicted the use of vasopressor drugs in this group.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 65-71
Effect of NaHS on carbonic anhydrase activity of human erythrocyte
Authors: Bhakta Abhijit , Bandyopadhyay Maitreyi , Dasgupta Sayantan , Sen Santanu , Kumar Arun , Biswas Utpal Kumar
Published: January 2016

Background: In contrast to its role as poison, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is recently considered as a gaso-transmitter which mediates important physiologic functions in humans. Evidence is accumulating to demonstrate that inhibitors of H2S production or therapeutic H2S donor compounds exert significant effects in various experimental models. Carbonic anhydrases (CA) are a group of zinc-containing metalloenzymes that catalyse the reversible hydration of carbon dioxide. CAs activity in erythrocytes (CAI and CAII) has recently been observed to be associated with various pathological conditions especially in diabetes mellitus, hypertension and lipid disorders. Alteration of this enzyme activity has been reported by the effect of advanced glycation end products methylglyoxal and reduced glutathione.   Aims and Objectives: As H2S, being a mediator of many physiological functions and synthesized in vivo, may affect functions of many intracellular proteins like carbonic anhydrase, the objective of this study is to find out if there is any change in the carbonic anhydrase activity under the effect of H2S- donor NaHS in dose dependant manner using RBC model in vitro.Materials and Methods: Blood sample was collected from forty (40) numbers of healthy volunteers of 18-40 years of in heparin containing vials and packed cells were prepared immediately by centrifugation  The packed erythrocytes were washed three times with normal saline and  diluted (1:10) with the normal saline. One ml each of diluted packed cells was taken in eight test tubes. Serial dilutions of NaHS (1to 250 µMol/L) was added to all the test tubes except for the first test tube where only normal saline was added and   incubated at room temperature for one hour. Haemolysates was prepared from the erythrocytes with equal volume of distilled water in each tube and the CA activity was determined in the haemolysates using standardized method.Results: There is significant increase of CA activity in dose dependent manner under the effect of NaHS and also compared to the activity of hemolysate prepared without NaHS.  Conclusions:Our study for the first time demonstrated that the Carbonic Anhydrase activity of erythrocytes is significantly increases by the effect of NaHS and this study reveals some important biological role of H2S and carbonic anhydrase.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 23-27
Rapid diagnosis of neonatal sepsis in Pediatric population in tertiary care hospital, Durg
Authors: Chandrakar Shiv Kumar , Bawankar Smita , Panda Animesh , Chandi Dhruba Hari
Published: January 2016

Background: In under developing country Septicemia in infants to be of common occurrence with high morbidity & mortality.Aims and Objectives:  Detection of rapid method for diagnosis of sepsis in paediatric age groups.Materials and Methods : Clinically suspected 369 cases of Bacteraemia in neonates, infants & children admitted as inpatients at CCM Medical College & Hospital, Durg & 45 healthy children as control were included in the present study. The cases were investigated by blood culture & 5 rapid tests Viz total leucocyte count (TLC), immature to total neutrophil ( I:T) ratio, C – reactive protein (CRP), ESR & Grams smears of Buffy coat for organisms.Results :  Blood cultures were positive in 171 (46.34%) of 369 cases and negative organisms was 55.55% as against 44.44% of Gram positive bacteria. The most common isolates were Staph epidermides (24.56%) and Staph aureus (16.37%) with overall staphylococcal prevalence of 40.93% followed by gram negative bacteria, S.typhi (14.61%) E.coli 11.11% & Ps.auroginosa 10.52%.Conclusion : The rapid tests were evaluated in blood culture positive & negative cases CRP yielded maximum sensitivity of 70.76%, Specificity of 76.26% & positive predictive accuracy of 72.02%. Combination of 2 tests did not reveal any significant advantage over single CRP test.Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol. 7(3) 2016 94-96
Long-Trip Optimization of Charging Strategies for Battery Electric Vehicles
Authors: Huber Gerhard , Bogenberger Klaus
Published: January 2016

A major drawback of battery electric vehicles is their small range. For long-distance coverage, stops for charging are inevitable. Because of emerging technologies, charging durations can be reduced to 30 min; this reduction means that short stops for charging are possible, even during a long trip. In this study, the problem of finding optimal charging strategies was formulated as a time-dependent, bicriteria, shortest-path problem. The intention was to provide a new feature for navigation by computing for a predefined route when and how long a battery must be charged to reach a destination quickly and reliably (i.e., without the risk of an empty battery). Two algorithms for solving this problem are explained. A case study analyzed the performance of these two algorithms and the impact of several modifications of the underlying graph-based representation of charging possibilities. For practical relevance to be obtained, historical traffic data were used to estimate travel times and energy consumption within the case study, along with real-time traffic information from an online stream hosted by a professional traffic data provider.
Coordinated Online In-Vehicle Navigation Guidance Based on Routing Game Theory
Authors: Du Lili , Chen Shuwei , Han Lanshan
Published: January 2016

This study proposed a coordinated online in-vehicle routing mechanism for smart vehicles with real-time information exchange and portable computation capabilities. The proposed coordinated routing mechanism was modeled as a pure-strategy atomic routing game and was implemented by a sequentially updating distributed algorithm. This study showed the existence of an equilibrium joint routing decision for the routing game and the convergence of the distributed algorithm to an equilibrium; this equilibrium was based on the assumption that individual smart vehicles were selfish players who tried to minimize their own travel time and shared their route choices with other smart vehicles directly or indirectly. Numerical experiments based on the Sioux Falls, South Dakota, network indicated that the proposed distributed algorithm converged very quickly; thus the algorithm has great potential for online applications. Moreover, the proposed coordinate routing mechanism outperformed traditional independent routing mechanisms under various traffic regimes. The mechanism reduced travel time for both the overall system and the majority of individual vehicles; this achievement was the core idea of intelligent transportation systems. These positive effects were more significant in congested traffic condition than in free traffic. The experiments also indicated that even with imperfect information provision, the proposed approach could work well for convergence as well as travel time reduction in systems and individual vehicles.
A Review of Quality Measures for Assessing the Impact of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Hospitals
Authors: Akpan Mary , Ahmad Raheelah , Shebl Nada , Ashiru-Oredope Diane
Published: January 2016

The growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has led to calls for antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) to control antibiotic use in healthcare settings. Key strategies include prospective audit with feedback and intervention, and formulary restriction and preauthorization. Education, guidelines, clinical pathways, de-escalation, and intravenous to oral conversion are also part of some programs. Impact and quality of ASP can be assessed using process or outcome measures. Outcome measures are categorized as microbiological, patient or financial outcomes. The objective of this review was to provide an overview of quality measures for assessing ASP and the reported impact of ASP in peer-reviewed studies, focusing particularly on patient outcomes. A literature search of papers published in English between 1990 and June 2015 was conducted in five databases using a combination of search terms. Primary studies of any design were included. A total of 63 studies were included in this review. Four studies defined quality metrics for evaluating ASP. Twenty-one studies assessed the impact of ASP on antimicrobial utilization and cost, 25 studies evaluated impact on resistance patterns and/or rate of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). Thirteen studies assessed impact on patient outcomes including mortality, length of stay (LOS) and readmission rates. Six of these 13 studies reported non-significant difference in mortality between pre- and post-ASP intervention, and five reported reductions in mortality rate. On LOS, six studies reported shorter LOS post intervention; a significant reduction was reported in one of these studies. Of note, this latter study reported significantly (p < 0.001) higher unplanned readmissions related to infections post-ASP. Patient outcomes need to be a key component of ASP evaluation. The choice of metrics is influenced by data and resource availability. Controlling for confounders must be considered in the design of evaluation studies to adequately capture the impact of ASP and it is important for unintended consequences to be considered. This review provides a starting point toward compiling standard outcome metrics for assessing ASP.
Prader-Willi Syndrome and Schaaf-Yang Syndrome: Neurodevelopmental Diseases Intersecting at the MAGEL2 Gene
Authors: Fountain Michael , Schaaf Christian
Published: January 2016

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by neonatal hypotonia, developmental delay/intellectual disability, and characteristic feeding behaviors with failure to thrive during infancy; followed by hyperphagia and excessive weight gain later in childhood. Individuals with PWS also manifest complex behavioral phenotypes. Approximately 25% meet criteria for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PWS is caused by the absence of paternally expressed, maternally silenced genes at chromosome 15q11-q13. MAGEL2 is one of five protein-coding genes in the PWS-critical domain. Truncating point mutations of the paternal allele of MAGEL2 cause Schaaf-Yang syndrome, which has significant phenotypic overlap with PWS, but is also clinically distinct; based on the presence of joint contractures, and a particularly high prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (up to 75% of affected individuals). The clinical and molecular overlap between PWS and Schaaf-Yang syndrome, but also their distinguishing features provide insight into the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying both disorders.
Information and the Quantum World
Authors: Dieks Dennis
Published: January 2016

The concept of information is not different in quantum theory from its counterpart in classical physics: a sui generis quantum information concept is not needed. However, the quantum world is radically different from its classical counterpart. This difference in structure of the material world has important consequences for the amounts of information that can be stored in physical systems and for the possibilities of information transfer. In many cases, overlap between quantum states (non-orthogonality of states) blurs distinctions and impedes efficient information transfer. However, the other typical quantum feature, entanglement, makes new and seemingly mysterious ways of transporting information possible. In this article, we suggest an interpretational scheme of quantum mechanics in terms of perspectival physical properties that may provide an intelligible account of these novel quantum possibilities, while staying close to the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics.
What Do Capacity Deployment Rates Tell Us about the Efficiency of Electricity Generation from Renewable Energy Sources Support Measures in Greece?
Authors: Papadelis Sotiris , Stavrakas Vasssilis , Flamos Alexandros
Published: January 2016

The efficiency of fiscal support for electricity generation from renewable energy sources (RES-E) is a multifaceted notion that cannot be adequately described by a single metric. Efficiency is related to the ability of a policy measure to support deployment without creating negative feedback effects. These negative effects may stem from saturation of the grid’s ability to absorb an increased amount of RES-E power, the inability of regulatory bodies to cope with the larger workload due to the increased number of projects requesting permits or from rent-seeking behavior. Furthermore, the primary rationale for feed-in tariffs (FITs) and other fiscal support schemes is that increased deployment of RES-E technologies will lead to reductions in costs and increases in efficiency. As a result, the efficiency of an RES-E support policy should be also judged by its ability to capitalize on cost reductions. Overall, we present an approach to facilitate ongoing assessments of the efficiency of support measures for RES-E deployment. We demonstrate the proposed approach using the FIT support policy in Greece as a case study. In particular, the RES-E support policy in Greece has been recently revised through tariff cuts and a moratorium on new production licenses. We aim to demonstrate that if publicly available data are appropriately monitored, a policy revision can take place in a timelier and less disruptive manner.
The Impact of the 2008 Economic Crisis on Substance Use Patterns in the Countries of the European Union
Authors: Dom Geert , Samochowiec Jerzy , Evans-Lacko Sara , Wahlbeck Kristian , Van Hal Guido , McDaid David
Published: January 2016

Background: From 2008 on, a severe economic crisis (EC) has characterized the European Union (E.U.). However, changes in substance use behavioral patterns as a result of the economic crisis in Europe, have been poorly reflected upon, and underlying mechanisms remain to be identified; Methods: In this review we explore and systematize the available data on the effect of the 2008 economic crisis on patterns of substance use and related disorders, within the E.U. countries; Results: The results show that effects of the recession need to be differentiated. A number of studies point to reductions in population’s overall substance use. In contrast, an increase in harmful use and negative effects is found within specific subgroups within the society. Risk factors include job-loss and long-term unemployment, and pre-existing vulnerabilities. Finally, our findings point to differences between types of substances in their response on economic crisis periods; Conclusions: the effects of the 2008 economic crisis on substance use patterns within countries of the European Union are two-sided. Next to a reduction in a population’s overall substance use, a number of vulnerable subgroups experience serious negative effects. These groups are in need of specific attention and support, given that there is a real risk that they will continue to suffer negative health effects long after the economic downfall has formally been ended.
Resistive Switching of Plasma–Treated Zinc Oxide Nanowires for Resistive Random Access Memory
Authors: Lai Yunfeng , Qiu Wenbiao , Zeng Zecun , Cheng Shuying , Yu Jinling , Zheng Qiao
Published: January 2016

ZnO nanowires (NWs) were grown on Si(100) substrates at 975 °C by a vapor-liquid-solid method with ~2 nm and ~4 nm gold thin films as catalysts, followed by an argon plasma treatment for the as-grown ZnO NWs. A single ZnO NW–based memory cell with a Ti/ZnO/Ti structure was then fabricated to investigate the effects of plasma treatment on the resistive switching. The plasma treatment improves the homogeneity and reproducibility of the resistive switching of the ZnO NWs, and it also reduces the switching (set and reset) voltages with less fluctuations, which would be associated with the increased density of oxygen vacancies to facilitate the resistive switching as well as to average out the stochastic movement of individual oxygen vacancies. Additionally, a single ZnO NW–based memory cell with self-rectification could also be obtained, if the inhomogeneous plasma treatment is applied to the two Ti/ZnO contacts. The plasma-induced oxygen vacancy disabling the rectification capability at one of the Ti/ZnO contacts is believed to be responsible for the self-rectification in the memory cell.
Effect of Oat β-Glucan Intake on Glycaemic Control and Insulin Sensitivity of Diabetic Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shen Xiao , Zhao Tao , Zhou Yuanzhong , Shi Xiuquan , Zou Yan , Zhao Guohua
Published: January 2016

Many individual studies on oat β-glucan (OBG) confirmed its functionality in improving type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but disagreements were identified among those results. To derive a pooled estimate of these results, relevant articles, published before 5 September 2015, were collected from four electronic databases (Pubmed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science) and subjected to meta-analysis in the present work. In total, four articles, dealing with 350 T2DM patients combined, met the inclusion criteria. Compared to control, T2DM patients administrated OBG from 2.5 to 3.5 g/day for 3 to 8 weeks presented significantly lowered concentrations in fasting plasma glucose (FPG) by −0.52 (95% CI: −0.94, −0.10) mmol/L (p = 0.01) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by −0.21% (95% CI: −0.40, −0.02) (p = 0.03). However, OBG intake did not significantly lower the fasting plasma insulin (FPI) concentration. In conclusion, mediate-term OBG intake (3–8 weeks) favored the glycaemic control of T2DM patients but did not improve their insulin sensitivity. Regrettably, data upon the effects of long-term OBG intake on glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity were scarce, which is of much importance and should be addressed in future research.
Consumption of Whole-Grain Bread and Risk of Colorectal Cancer among Norwegian Women (the NOWAC Study)
Authors: Bakken Toril , Braaten Tonje , Olsen Anja , Kyrø Cecilie , Lund Eiliv , Skeie Guri
Published: January 2016

There is evidence that consumption of foods containing dietary fiber decreases the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Whole grains contain dietary fiber, as well as a range of micronutrients and bioactive compounds, but the association between the consumption of whole grains and the risk of CRC remains less studied. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between whole-grain bread consumption and CRC incidence among Norwegian women, using data from a prospective cohort study (the Norwegian Women and Cancer Study). Dietary intake was estimated from the food-frequency questionnaires of 78,254 women in the cohort (median age: 55 years), and these women were then followed up for CRC incidence. During the 9 years of median follow-up, 795 women were diagnosed with CRC (316 proximal, 193 distal, 218 rectal). Associations between whole-grain bread consumption and the risk of CRC (including colorectal subsites) were investigated using Cox proportional hazards regression models. When compared to the low consumption group, the hazard ratio for CRC was 0.89 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.72–1.09) for the high consumption group and 0.86 (95% CI: 0.72–1.02) for the medium consumption group in a multivariable model. Overall, no association between whole-grain bread consumption and CRC was found.
Protection against Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reperfusion Injury in Cortical Neurons by Combining Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Acid with Lyciumbarbarum Polysaccharide
Authors: Shi Zhe , Wu Di , Yao Jian-Ping , Yao Xiaoli , Huang Zhijian , Li Peng , Wan Jian-Bo , He Chengwei , Su Huanxing
Published: January 2016

Ischemic stroke, characterized by the disturbance of the blood supply to the brain, is a severe worldwide health threat with high mortality and morbidity. However, there is no effective pharmacotherapy for ischemic injury. Currently, combined treatment is highly recommended for this devastating injury. In the present study, we investigated neuroprotective effects of the combination of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs) and Lyciumbarbarum polysaccharide (LBP) on cortical neurons using an in vitro ischemic model. Our study demonstrated that treatment with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a major component of the ω-3 PUFAs family, significantly inhibited the increase of intracellular Ca2+ in cultured wild type (WT) cortical neurons subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) injury and promoted their survival compared with the vehicle-treated control. The protective effects were further confirmed in cultured neurons with high endogenous ω-3 PUFAs that were isolated from fat-1 mice, in that a higher survival rate was found in fat-1 neurons compared with wild-type neurons after OGD/R injury. Our study also found that treatment with LBP (50 mg/L) activated Trk-B signaling in cortical neurons and significantly attenuated OGD/R-induced cell apoptosis compared with the control. Notably, both combining LBP treatment with ω-3 PUFAs administration to WT neurons and adding LBP to fat-1 neurons showed enhanced effects on protecting cortical neurons against OGD/R injury via concurrently regulating the intracellular calcium overload and neurotrophic pathway. The results of the study suggest that ω-3 PUFAs and LBP are promising candidates for combined pharmacotherapy for ischemic stroke.
Singlet Exciton Lifetimes in Conjugated Polymer Films for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Dimitrov Stoichko , Schroeder Bob , Nielsen Christian , Bronstein Hugo , Fei Zhuping , McCulloch Iain , Heeney Martin , Durrant James
Published: January 2016

The lifetime of singlet excitons in conjugated polymer films is a key factor taken into account during organic solar cell device optimization. It determines the singlet exciton diffusion lengths in polymer films and has a direct impact on the photocurrent generation by organic solar cell devices. However, very little is known about the material properties controlling the lifetimes of singlet excitons, with most of our knowledge originating from studies of small organic molecules. Herein, we provide a brief summary of the nature of the excited states in conjugated polymer films and then present an analysis of the singlet exciton lifetimes of 16 semiconducting polymers. The exciton lifetimes of seven of the studied polymers were measured using ultrafast transient absorption spectroscopy and compared to the lifetimes of seven of the most common photoactive polymers found in the literature. A plot of the logarithm of the rate of exciton decay vs. the polymer optical bandgap reveals a medium correlation between lifetime and bandgap, thus suggesting that the Energy Gap Law may be valid for these systems. This therefore suggests that small bandgap polymers can suffer from short exciton lifetimes, which may limit their performance in organic solar cell devices. In addition, the impact of film crystallinity on the exciton lifetime was assessed for a small bandgap diketopyrrolopyrrole co-polymer. It is observed that the increase of polymer film crystallinity leads to reduction in exciton lifetime and optical bandgap again in agreement with the Energy Gap Law.