bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of snow products over the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Yang Juntao , Jiang Lingmei , Ménard Cécile B. , Luojus Kari , Lemmetyinen Juha , Pulliainen Jouni
Published: January 2015

Four satellite‐based snow products are evaluated over the Tibetan Plateau for the 2007–2010 snow seasons. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Terra and Aqua snow cover daily L3 Global 500‐m grid products (MOD10A1 and MYD10A1), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Interactive Multisensor Snow and Ice Mapping System (IMS) daily Northern Hemisphere snow cover product and the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer – Earth Observing System Daily Snow Water Equivalent were validated against Thematic Mapper (TM) snow cover maps of Landsat‐5 and meteorological station snow depth observations. The overall accuracy of MOD10A1, MYD10A1 and IMS is higher than 91% against stations observations and than 79% against Landsat TM images. In general, the daily MODIS snow cover products show better performance than the multisensor IMS product. However, the IMS snow cover product is suitable for larger scale (~4km) analysis and applications, with the advantage over MODIS to allow for mitigation for cloud cover. The accuracy of the three products decreases with decreasing snow depth. Overestimation errors are most common over forested regions; the IMS and Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer – Earth Observing System Snow Water Equivalent products also show poorer performance that the MODIS products over grassland. By identifying weaknesses in the satellite products, this study provides a focus for the improvement of snow products over the Tibetan plateau. The quantitative evaluation of the products proposed here can also be used to assess their relative weight in data assimilation, against other data sources, such as modelling and in situ measurement networks. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulating the uncertain effect of active carbon capping of a dioxin-polluted Norwegian fjord
Authors: Starrfelt Jostein , Saloranta Tuomo M
Published: January 2015

Process-based multimedia models are frequently used to simulate the long-term impacts of pollutants and to evaluate potential remediation actions that can be put in place to improve or manage polluted marine environments. Many such models are detailed enough to encapsulate the different scales and processes relevant for various contaminants, yet still are tractable enough for analysis through established methods for uncertainty assessment. Inclusion and quantification of the uncertainty associated with local efficacy of remediation actions is of importance when the desired outcome in terms of human health concerns or environmental classification shows a nonlinear relationship with remediation effort. We present an updated fugacity-based environmental fate model set up to simulate the historical fate of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzo-furans (PCDD/Fs) in the Grenland fjords, in Norway. The model is parameterized using Bayesian inference and is then used to simulate the effect of capping parts of the polluted sediments with active carbon. Great care is taken in quantifying the uncertainty regarding the efficacy of the activated carbon cap to reduce the leaching of contaminants from the sediments. The model predicts that by capping selected parts of the fjord, biota will be classified as moderately polluted approximately a decade earlier than a natural remediation scenario. Our approach also illustrates the importance of incorporating uncertainty in local remediation efforts, as the biotic concentrations scale nonlinearly with remediation effort. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2015;11:481–489. © 2015 SETAC

Key Points

An improved multimedia fugacity model is used to simulate the fate and transport of dioxins in the highly polluted, Norwegian Grenland fjord. Higher spatial resolution of the fjords and potential capping sites makes the model more similar to the real world system, improving accuracy. Updated biota, sediment, and water sample data taken from recent monitoring efforts allow for better calibration of model parameters. Uncertainty in the effectiveness of thin layered capping with active carbon is addressed and quantified.
Effects of Superabsorbent Polymers on Infiltration and Evaporation of Soil Moisture Under Point Source Drip Irrigation
Authors: Yang Linlin , Han Yuguo , Yang Peiling , Wang Chengzhi , Yang Shengmin , Kuang Shuya , Yuan Hanzheng , Xiao Congying
Published: January 2015

The application of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) in agriculture can enhance water use efficiency and ease water shortage in agriculture. In this study, by applying SAPs to the middle layer of the soil root zone, the effects of SAPs on moisture distribution during infiltration and evaporation under the condition of point source irrigation were investigated. The results show that during infiltration, the wetting front formed an accident change zone in the horizontal direction; in the bottom layer, the horizontal infiltration rate is greater than the vertical infiltration rate due to the effect of SAPs from the middle layer; the soil water content in the middle layer increased remarkably by 23.6%, higher than that in the surface and bottom layers; during evaporation, the soil water content changed significantly in the surface layer due to strong evaporation on the surface, it was largest and quite even in the SAP–soil mixture layer, and decreased the least in the bottom layer due to water storage in the mixture layer. Therefore, SAP application in the crop root layer is helpful to conserve soil water content in the crop root zone, inhibit evaporation of soil water in the lower layer and facilitate moisture conservation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Silver Lifeboat, not Silver Fetters: Why and how the Silver Standard Insulated China from the 1929 Great Depression
Authors: Ho Tai‐kuang , Lai Cheng‐chung
Published: January 2015

We use counterfactual simulations based on an estimated dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model to demonstrate why China was affected less than other major countries during the first two years of the Great Depression. We show that being on a silver standard insulated China from the adverse consequences of the Great Depression by saving the country both from a tightening of monetary conditions and from a detrimental internal deflation. Without the insulation of the silver standard, China might have suffered from a cumulative output loss of between 11% and 23%, and its inflation might have become deflation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Price Sensitivity of Demand for Prescription Drugs: Exploiting a Regression Kink Design
Authors: Simonsen Marianne , Skipper Lars , Skipper Niels
Published: January 2015

We investigate price sensitivity of demand for prescription drugs, using drug purchase records for the entire Danish population. We identify price responsiveness by exploiting variation in prices caused by kinked reimbursement schemes and implement a regression kink design. The results suggest some price responsiveness with corresponding price elasticities ranging from −0.2 to −0.7. Individuals with chronic disease and especially individuals above the age of 65 respond less to the price of drugs. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functionalised activated carbon modified polyphenylsulfone composite membranes for adsorption enhanced phenol filtration
Authors: Saranya Rameshkumar , Kumar Muthaiyan , Tamilarasan Rengasamy , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Arthanareeswaran Gangasalam
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Functionalized activated carbon (FAC) was prepared by immobilizing the activated carbon (AC) synthesized from Acacia fumosa seeds in cacium‐alginate beads. Synthesized FAC has been blended with polyphenylsulfone (PPSU) in the composition of 0.25 to 1 wt% with an increment of 0.25 wt% to prepare composite membranes of PPSU/FAC by wet phase inversion method. The existence of FAC in PPSU was confirmed by Fourier transform infra‐red spectroscopy (FTIR) studies by the presence of characteristic functional groups of FAC. The influence of FAC on adsorption enhanced rejection of phenol during membrane filtration has been investigated.

RESULTS

The hydrophilicity of PPSU/FAC composite membranes has been improved by FAC as there was a profound reduction in contact angle from 71.8° to 43.8°. With the minimum loading of 0.25 wt% of FAC in PPSU, the maximum adsorption of phenol has taken place suggesting that the better dispersion of minimal loading will offer higher accessibility to adsorptive sites.

CONCLUSIONS

The adsorption of phenol on FAC was observed to be higher in PPSU/FAC composite membranes when compared with FAC being used solely as an adsorbent. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Different mycorrhizal fungal strains determine plant community response to nitrogen and water availability
Authors: Martínez‐García Laura B. , Ochoa‐Hueso Raúl , Manrique Esteban , Pugnaire Francisco I.
Published: January 2015

Most research on the mycorrhizal positive–negative responsiveness continuum (or “mutualism–parasitism continuum”) has focused on individual plant species growing at different levels of P availability. Here, we explore this continuum in an experimental plant community inoculated with three arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal strains (both single and mixed) growing under four resource availability scenarios. These scenarios are a factorial combination of two levels of water and N availability. Each AM fungal strain had a different origin: an arid ecosystem, a farmland, and a mine. We hypothesized that the response of the plant community to mycorrhizal inoculum would depend on the associated AM fungal strain and would be negatively related with increased nitrogen and water availability. Our results showed that mixed‐strain AM fungal inoculation had more positive effects along a wider range of water and N availability scenarios than single‐strain inoculation. In contrast, mycorrhizal growth response of plants inoculated with a single AM fungal strain shifted from positive to neutral and negative depending on resource availability. Adaptation of each strain to its local conditions might confer different properties to the mycorrhizal symbiosis. Therefore, we conclude that AM fungal origin and environmental limiting resources are crucial factors to predict plant community mycorrhizal growth response in changing ecosystems.
Cryolipolysis for safe and effective inner thigh fat reduction
Authors: Zelickson Brian D. , Burns A. Jay , Kilmer Suzanne L.
Published: January 2015

Background and Objectives

While cryolipolysis initially received FDA clearance for fat reduction in the abdomen and flanks, there was significant interest in non‐surgical fat reduction for other sites, such as the inner and outer thighs. This article reports the results of an inner thigh study which contributed to FDA clearance of cryolipolysis for treatment of thighs.

Study Design/Material and Methods

A flat cup vacuum applicator (CoolFit applicator, CoolSculpting System) was used to treat 45 subjects bilaterally in the inner thighs. Single cycle treatments were delivered at Cooling Intensity Factor (CIF) 41.6 for 60 minutes followed by 2 minutes of manual massage. Follow‐up visits were conducted at 8 and 16 weeks. Efficacy was assessed by ultrasound imaging, circumference measurements, and photographs. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events. Patient satisfaction was evaluated by questionnaire.

Results

Data is presented for n = 42 patients that completed the 16 week study follow‐up and maintained their weight within 5 lbs. of baseline. Independent photo review from three blinded physicians found 91% correct identification of baseline clinical photographs. Ultrasound data indicate fat layer reduction of 2.8 mm. Circumferential measurements indicate mean reduction of 0.9 cm. Patient questionnaires reveal 93% were satisfied with the CoolSculpting procedure; 84% noticed visible fat reduction; 89% would recommend to a friend; and 91% were likely to have a second treatment. There were no device‐ or procedure‐related serious adverse events.

Conclusion

The CoolFit flat cup vacuum applicator was found to deliver safe and effective cryolipolysis treatment to reduce inner thigh fat. Completed 16‐week data from 42 subjects show 2.8 mm reduction in fat thickness and 0.9 cm reduction in circumference. Assessment of clinical photographs found 91% correct identification of baseline images. The results of this prospective, multi‐center, interventional clinical study contributed to FDA clearance of cryolipolysis for treatment of thighs in April 2014. Lasers Surg. Med. 47:120–127, 2015. © 2015 The Authors. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrical impedance myography in the evaluation of the tongue musculature in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Shellikeri Sanjana , Yunusova Yana , Green Jordan R. , Pattee Gary L. , Berry James D. , Rutkove Seward B. , Zinman Lorne
Published: January 2015

Introduction: Electrical impedance myography (EIM) quantifies muscle health and is used as a biomarker of muscle abnormalities in neurogenic and myopathic diseases. EIM has yet to be evaluated in the tongue musculature in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), who often show clinical bulbar signs. Methods: The lingual musculature of 19 subjects with motor neuron disease and 21 normal participants was assessed using EIM, strength and endurance testing, and clinical assessment. Results: Tongue musculature in the ALS group was characterized by significantly smaller phase (Ph) and greater resistance (R) when compared with the healthy cohort. Ph and tongue endurance were correlated in the ALS group. Conclusions: EIM of tongue musculature could distinguish those with ALS from healthy controls. The demonstrated relationship between tongue function and Ph supports further testing of EIM of the tongue as a potential biomarker in ALS. Muscle Nerve 52: 584–591, 2015
Correlates of psychological distress immediately following colposcopy
Authors: Kola‐Palmer Susanna , Walsh Jane C.
Published: January 2015

Objective

Women are at risk for prolonged psychological distress following attendance at colposcopy for cervical abnormalities, with potentially negative consequences. Little is presently known about the correlates of post‐colposcopy distress. The present study aimed to extend knowledge of correlates of post‐colposcopy anxiety and negative affect, and identify women at risk for elevated psychological distress.

Methods

Psychosocial data (demographic variables, anxiety, negative affect, and pain) were collected using validated questionnaires from 164 women attending colposcopy for the first time immediately prior to their colposcopy examination and immediately following it. Two separate logistic regressions were conducted to identify key factors that may be useful targets for preventing post‐colposcopy distress and to determine which factors exert the biggest influence and therefore may be targeted in future intervention studies.

Results

Pre‐colposcopy state anxiety, pain experienced during colposcopy, and trait anxiety emerged as independent predictors of post‐colposcopy state anxiety, accounting for 36% of the variance. Pre‐colposcopy negative affect, pain experienced during colposcopy, trait anxiety, and referral smear grade were independent predictors of post‐colposcopy negative affect, explaining 32% of variance.

Conclusions

Whether or not women underwent punch biopsy or treatment did not influence post‐colposcopy distress levels; however, pain experienced during colposcopy remains a risk for continued psychological distress. Trait anxiety may be an important variable to consider in future studies, as women high in trait anxiety may represent a particularly vulnerable subgroup of women referred for colposcopy, at greater risk for negative psychosocial consequences associated with colposcopy, and to be targeted for interventions to reduce psychological distress. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inferring the microscopic surface energy of protein–protein interfaces from mutation data
Authors: Moal Iain H. , Dapkūnas Justas , Fernández‐Recio Juan
Published: January 2015

Mutations at protein–protein recognition sites alter binding strength by altering the chemical nature of the interacting surfaces. We present a simple surface energy model, parameterized with empirical
values, yielding mean energies of −48 cal mol−1 Å−2 for interactions between hydrophobic surfaces, −51 to −80 cal mol−1 Å−2 for surfaces of complementary charge, and 66–83 cal mol−1 Å−2 for electrostatically repelling surfaces, relative to the aqueous phase. This places the mean energy of hydrophobic surface burial at −24 cal mol−1 Å−2. Despite neglecting configurational entropy and intramolecular changes, the model correlates with empirical binding free energies of a functionally diverse set of rigid‐body interactions (r = 0.66). When used to rerank docking poses, it can place near‐native solutions in the top 10 for 37% of the complexes evaluated, and 82% in the top 100. The method shows that hydrophobic burial is the driving force for protein association, accounting for 50–95% of the cohesive energy. The model is available open‐source from http://life.bsc.es/pid/web/surface_energy/ and via the CCharpPPI web server http://life.bsc.es/pid/ccharppi/. Proteins 2015; 83:640–650. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Flip‐chip bonding and fabrication of well‐ordered nanocolumn arrays on sputter‐deposited AlN/Si (111) substrate
Authors: Hayashi Hiroaki , Fukushima Daishi , Tomimatsu Daisuke , Noma Tomohiro , Konno Yuta , Kishino Katsumi
Published: January 2015

Employing a thin AlN film sputter‐deposited on Si substrates, well‐ordered GaN nanocolumn arrays were demonstrated by RF‐plasma‐assisted molecular‐beam‐epitaxy selective‐area growth. Dislocation‐free crystals were grown even on this cost‐effective framework, which included high‐density threading dislocations (>3 × 1011 cm−2), by applying nanocolumn growth techniques. Single‐peak PL spectra from integrated InGaN/GaN MQW were obtained in red region and the peak wavelength changed from 640 to 690 nm with increasing nanocolumn diameter. This framework also contributes to a fabrication of vertical injection type flip‐chip structure, even if a nanocolumn device. Damage‐free wet‐etching removal of Si substrates resulted in exposure of flip‐chip well‐ordered nanocolumns array.

(a) TEM image of nanocolumns array on sputter‐deposited thin AlN film/Si (111) substrate. (b) SEM image of flip‐chip well‐ordered nanocolumns array.
Normally‐off GaN MIS‐HEMT using a combination of recessed‐gate structure and CF4 plasma treatment
Authors: Park Youngrak , Kim Jungjin , Chang Woojin , Jung Dongyun , Bae Sungbum , Mun Jaekyung , Jun Chi‐Hoon , Ko Sangchoon , Nam Eunsoo
Published: January 2015

The combination of a recessed‐gate structure and CF4 plasma treatment was studied to realize a normally‐off operation of a AlGaN/GaN metal–insulator–semiconductor high‐electron‐mobility transistor (MIS‐HEMT) for power electronics applications. We verified that fluorine ions incorporated with a strong electronegativity increase the threshold voltage (Vth). In addition, CF4 plasma treatment slightly etches the AlGaN surface as deeply as 25 Å. A fabricated device exhibits a threshold voltage of as high as 2.6 V. Using a combination of gate recess and plasma treatment processes, the device demonstrates a tremendous potential of normally‐off AlGaN/GaN MIS‐HEMTs for power electronics applications.
Multifunctional Activity of Polyphenolic Compounds Associated with a Potential for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy from Ecklonia cava
Authors: Choi Byoung Wook , Lee Hye Sook , Shin Hyeon‐Cheol , Lee Bong Ho
Published: January 2015

Five polyphenols were isolated and purified from a brown alga Ecklonia cava. These compounds showed diverse biological activities such as antioxidative, antiinflammatory, and enzyme inhibitory activities. This led us to investigate the potential of these compounds as Alzheimer's disease drugs. All of the compounds showed moderate acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity in a micromolar range (IC50 from 16.0 to 96.3 μM). For butyrylcholinesterase, a new target for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, phlorofucofuroeckol‐A (PFF‐A), showed a particularly potent inhibitory activity (IC50 0.95 μM), which is over 100‐fold greater than for acetylcholinesterase. These compounds inhibited glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta, which is related to the formation of hyperphosphorylated tau and generation Aβ. Bieckol and PFF‐A inhibited amyloid precursor protein biosynthesis. PFF‐A also showed very strong β‐secretase inhibitory activity with IC50 of submicromole. These results render these compounds as interesting potential drug candidates for Alzheimer's disease. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Entanglement creation in Compton scattering of neutrons on protons and its possible energetic consequences
Authors: Karlsson Erik B.
Published: January 2015

It has been predicted that entanglement creation should be associated with a lowering of energy (as well as the well‐known decrease of entropy) for certain types of interaction potentials. This is a principally important question and it is shown here that np‐scattering has specific features that would make it suitable for experimental tests of this prediction using neutron scattering on hydrogen at high angles. For this purpose, the evolution of n‐p entanglement in Compton scattering on protons at epithermal energies (20–200 eV) is calculated over the separation distance 0–1 Å, corresponding to times up to 10−15 s after the collision. If an energy transfer is associated with the entanglement, it ought to be observable under these measurement conditions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
δ‐KNO3: Synthesis and Structure of a New Modification of Potassium Nitrate
Authors: Wolf Silke , Alam Nure , Feldmann Claus
Published: January 2015

A novel modification of potassium nitrate is obtained subsequent to solvothermal reaction and crystallization at reduced temperature from diethylformamid (DEF) as solvent. δ‐KNO3 crystallizes with the monoclinic space group P21/c. Most intriguing is the coordination number of potassium and oxygen as expressed by the Niggli notation δ‐K8/8[NO4/4O4/2] that differs from the known modifications of potassium nitrate (α‐K9/9[NO9/3], β‐K9/9[NO9/3], γ‐K9/9[NO9/3]). Moreover, the stacking of the NO3– anions differentiates from the known KNO3 modifications. As only few crystals were obtained, the new modification is characterized by single‐crystal structure analysis as well as by Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy. The latter reliably points to the presence of nitrate and shows a ν(N–O) vibration centered at 1384 cm–1, but with significantly different shape and band width as compared to α‐K9/9[NO9/3] as a reference.
An energy‐entropy‐consistent time stepping scheme for nonlinear thermo‐viscoelastic continua
Authors: Krüger M. , Groß M. , Betsch P.
Published: January 2015

This paper deals with an energy‐entropy‐consistent time integration of a thermo‐viscoelastic continuum in Poissonian variables. The four differential evolution equations of first‐order are transformed by a new General Equation for Non‐Equilibrium Reversible‐Irreversible Coupling (GENERIC) format into a matrix‐vector notation. Since the entropy is a primary variable, we include thermal constraints to affect the temperatures at the boundary of the body. This enhanced GENERIC format with thermal constraints yields with the related degeneracy conditions structure preservation properties for a system with thermal constraints. The properties of an isolated system are in addition to a constant total linear and angular momentum, the constant total energy, an increasing total entropy and a decreasing Lyapunov function. The last one is a stability criterion for thermo‐viscoelastic systems and also for unisolated systems without loads valid. The discretization in time is done with a new TC (Thermodynamically Consistent) integrator. This ETC integrator is constructed such, that the algorithmic structural properties after the space‐time discretization reflect the underlying enhanced GENERIC format with thermal constraints. As discretization in space the finite element method is used. A projection of the test function of the thermal evolution equation is necessary for an energy‐consistent discretization in space. The enhanced GENERIC format with thermal constraints, which is here given in the strong evolution equations, contains the external loads. The consistency properties are discussed for representative numerical examples with different boundary conditions. The coupled mechanical system is solved with a multi‐level Newton‐Raphson method based on a consistent linearization.
Characterization of a novel thermophilic phospholipase B from Thermotoga lettingae TMO: applicability in enzymatic degumming of vegetable oils
Authors: Wei Tao , Xu Chunping , Yu Xuan , Jia Weiwei , Yang Kunpeng , Jia Chunxiao , Mao Duobin
Published: January 2015

A novel phospholipase B (TLPLB) from Thermotoga lettingae TMO has been cloned, functionally overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified to homogeneity. Gas chromatography indicated that the enzyme could efficiently hydrolyze both the sn-1 and sn-2 ester bonds of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl phosphatidylcholine as phospholipase B. TLPLB was optimally active at 70 °C and pH 5.5, respectively. Its thermostability is relatively high with a half-life of 240 min at 90 °C. TLPLB also displayed remarkable organic solvent tolerance and maintained approximately 91–161 % of its initial activity in 20 and 50 % (v/v) hydrophobic organic solvents after incubation for 168 h. Furthermore, TLPLB exhibited high degumming activity towards rapeseed, soybean, peanut and sunflower seed oils, where the phosphorus contents were decreased from 225.2, 189.3, 85.6 and 70.4 mg/kg to 4.9, 4.7, 3.2 and 2.2 mg/kg within 5 h, respectively. TLPLB could therefore be used for the degumming of vegetable oils.
Triclosan-Coated Sutures Reduce the Risk of Surgical Site Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Apisarnthanarak Anucha , Singh Nalini , Bandong Aila Nica , Madriaga Gilbert
Published: January 2015

OBJECTIVE

To analyze available evidence on the effectiveness of triclosan-coated sutures (TCSs) in reducing the risk of surgical site infection (SSI).

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic search of both randomized (RCTs) and nonrandomized (non-RCT) studies was performed on PubMed Medline, OVID, EMBASE, and SCOPUS, without restrictions in language and publication type. Random-effects models were utilized and pooled estimates were reported as the relative risk (RR) ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI). Tests for heterogeneity as well as meta-regression, subgroup, and sensitivity analyses were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 29 studies (22 RCTs, 7 non-RCTs) were included in the meta-analysis. The overall RR of acquiring an SSI was 0.65 (95% CI: 0.55–0.77; I2=42.4%, P=.01) in favor of TCS use. The pooled RR was particularly lower for the abdominal surgery group (RR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.41–0.77) and was robust to sensitivity analysis. Meta-regression analysis revealed that study design, in part, may explain heterogeneity (P=.03). The pooled RR subgroup meta-analyses for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs were 0.74 (95% CI: 0.61–0.89) and 0.53 (95% CI: 0.42–0.66), respectively, both of which favored the use of TCSs.

CONCLUSION

The random-effects meta-analysis based on RCTs suggests that TCSs reduced the risk of SSI by 26% among patients undergoing surgery. This effect was particularly evident among those who underwent abdominal surgery.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2015;36(2): 1–11
Deliberate self-harming application of superglue in the nose: case report and literature review
Authors: Tikka T , Al Abduwani J , Costello D
Published: January 2015

Background:

Accidental and non-accidental applications of superglue in the ear, nose and oral cavity have been reported previously. Surgical removal of glue from the nose is the current practice.

Case report:

This paper reports the case of an 18-year-old female, who presented with complete bilateral nasal occlusion due to deliberate self-application of superglue in both nostrils to avoid nasogastric tube insertion.

Results:

Removal of glue was accomplished with a combination of local anaesthetic cream and acetone-soaked cotton buds, which caused only minimal discomfort to the patient. All traces of glue disappeared within 10 days, without causing damage to the nasal mucosa, nasal blockage or pain.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of deliberate self-application of superglue in the nose. A successful non-surgical management option for the removal of glue from the nose is introduced.
革命, Cách Mạng, Révolution: The early history of ‘revolution’ in Việt Nam
Authors: Dutton George
Published: January 2015

This article traces the etymology of the term ‘revolution’ as it developed in Việt Nam between the second half of the nineteenth and the early twentieth centuries. It argues that the term was slow to catch on, and that activists who used it did so in often contradictory ways. The term's historical development complicated efforts to fix its meaning, and it was not until the later part of the 1920s that it came to be consolidated, in part through Hồ Chí Minh's publication of a short book entitledĐường Kách Mệnh(The road to revolution).
Strife of the soil? Unsettling transmigrant conflicts in Indonesia
Authors: Barter Shane Joshua , Côté Isabelle
Published: January 2015

Challenging conventional wisdom, this article argues that Indonesia — long home to both large-scale transmigration programmes and a range of conflicts — has not witnessed transmigrant conflicts. The vast majority of Indonesian transmigrants were resettled in parts of Sumatra which have remained peaceful. In some conflicts, the role of transmigration has been exaggerated. In others, interethnic violence has involved spontaneous migrants rather than state-led transmigrants. We conclude with a discussion of two potential outliers, where violence has been directed towards transmigrants, but only those from disaster-affected regions who arrived en masse. This article argues for a more nuanced understanding of the distinctions between different forms of internal migration, some of which have the potential to spark future violence in recipient areas and communities.
Writing in the rain: Erasure, trauma, and Chinese Indonesian identity in the recent work of FX Harsono
Authors: Smith Philip
Published: January 2015

This is an examination of the recent work of Indonesian visual artist FX Harsono in relation to Chinese Indonesian identity, the erasure of history, and the challenge of communicating through trauma. It is my hope that this work will contribute to the dialogue on both the Chinese Indonesian experience and large-scale ethnic violence.
What are the factors leading to the success of small planktonic copepods in the Gulf of Gabes, Tunisia?
Authors: Ben Ltaief Thouraya , Drira Zaher , Hannachi Imen , Bel Hassen Malika , Hamza Asma , Pagano Marc , Ayadi Habib
Published: January 2015

An oceanographic cruise conducted during June 2008 in the Gulf of Gabes revealed the existence of different water masses; the Modified Atlantic Waters (MAW) circulated in the upper 100 m in the offshore area, the Mixed Mediterranean Water (MMW) was confined to the inshore region and the Ionian Water (IW) was in deep offshore water. The thermal stratification was indicated by the vertical profiles of temperature generated from a coast-offshore section. Phosphorus limitation was induced by the thermal stratification as shown by the high N/P ratio. Heterotrophic and mixotrophic dinoflagellates were the major contributors to total phytoplankton biomass. Ciliates were less abundant and dominated by tintinnids. Small planktonic copepods (≤1.45 mm) contributed to 93.64% of total copepod abundance in the inshore area as a result of the high density of Oithona similis, Oithona nana, Clausocalanus furcatus and Euterpina acutifrons in this area characterized by warm and salty MMW. In fact, small copepods were significantly correlated to both temperature and salinity. Small copepod fraction prevailed also in the MAW contributing to 71.05% of total copepod abundance as a result of the dominance of O. nana and C. furcatus. Nonetheless, the large copepod Nannocalanus minor was more adapted to the deep IW where it contributed to 44.05% of total copepod abundance. Invasive species were encountered in the offshore region intruded by the Atlantic waters. The Atlantic copepods were scarce and less abundant reflecting the weakening of the Atlantic flow in the eastern basin of the Mediterranean.
Cardiac and oxidative stress biomarkers inTrypanosoma evansiinfected camels: diagnostic and prognostic prominence
Authors: EL-DEEB W. M. , ELMOSLEMANY A. M.
Published: January 2015

This study was conducted to investigate the level of cardiac and oxidative stress markers in camels infected withTrypanosoma evansiand to explore the diagnostic and prognostic value of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) in response to infection. Seventy four dromedary camels with clinical and laboratory evidence of trypanosomosis and 20 healthy controls were included in this study. Serum cTnI, CK-MB, CK, malondialdehyde (MDA) and super oxide dismutase (SOD) were measured. The values of cTnI, CK-MB, CK and MDA were significantly higher, whereas SOD level was lower inT. evansiinfected camel. Successfully treated camels (n= 43) had lower levels of cTnI, CK-MB, CK and MDA, but higher level of SOD compared to camels with treatment failure. Both cTnI and CK-MB showed high degree of accuracy in predicting treatment outcome (successvsfailure). The area under the curve for cTnI and CK-MB was 0·98 and 0·93, respectively. However, cTnI showed better sensitivity and specificity than CK-MB (Se = 96·8%vs83·9% and Sp = 100%vs88·5%, respectively). These results suggest that cTnI and CK-MB could be used as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in camels infected withT. evansi.
Childhood living conditions, education and health among the oldest old in Sweden
Authors: BERNDT HANNA , FORS STEFAN
Published: January 2015

The objectives were to investigate the associations between social and financial living conditions in childhood, education and morbidity in old age. The study population (N = 591; 76+ years old) was assembled from two nationally representative Swedish surveys, in 1968 and 2011, that together made longitudinal analysis possible. Morbidity in old age comprised self-reported measures of musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, self-rated health and impaired mobility. There were no independent associations between adverse childhood living conditions and morbidity. However, adverse childhood living conditions were associated with an increased likelihood of low education. Moreover, low education was associated with a higher probability of health problems in old age. The results did not show any associations between adverse childhood conditions and late-life morbidity. However, adverse childhood conditions were associated with lower levels of education which, in turn, was associated with health problems and attrition from the study. These results suggest that adverse childhood conditions may indeed be associated with health and survival in old age, but mainly through mechanisms acting earlier in the lifecourse.
On the kinematics of a new parallel mechanism with Schoenflies motion
Authors: Lee Po-Chih , Lee Jyh-Jone
Published: January 2015

This paper investigates the kinematics of one new isoconstrained parallel manipulator with Schoenflies motion. This new manipulator has four degrees of freedom and two identical limbs, each having the topology of Cylindrical–Revolute–Prismatic–Helical (C–R–P–H). The kinematic equations are derived in closed-form using matrix algebra. The Jacobian matrix is then established and the singularities of the robot are investigated. The reachable workspaces and condition number of the manipulator are further studied. From the kinematic analysis, it can be shown that the manipulator is simple not only for its construction but also for its control. It is hoped that the results of the evaluation of the two-limb parallel mechanism can be useful for possible applications in industry where a pick-and-place motion is required.
Does intensity-modulated radiotherapy reduce the risk of pelvic insufficiency fractures in gynaecological cancers?
Authors: Nama Vivek , Hughes John , Stapleton Alison , Al-Booz Hoda
Published: January 2015

Background

Increasingly we are using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy for treatment of gynaecological malignancies. Most studies in literature are concentrated on the concept of survival. There is minimal data examining the impact of these treatments on quality of life. Survival being a surrogate marker is an arbitrary end point and is of arguable significance if quality of life is not maintained. Long-term side effects of radiotherapy are debilitating and severely affect quality of life. Pelvic insufficiency fractures (PIF) are a known long-term side effect of radiotherapy. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is being routinely used in the treatment of prostate and head and neck cancer. We postulated that use of IMRT in gynaecological cancers reduces the incidence of PIF.

Patients and methods

We retrospectively reviewed 10 cases of PIF treated on standard treatment. We recalculated dose volume histograms based on IMRT protocols for patients with PIF.

Results

We found that none of the patients received any radiation at the fracture site and the total radiation received to the sacrum was lower compared with the standard treatment protocols.

Conclusions

We conclude that the feasibility of IMRT in gynaecological cancers should be further evaluated and might be an useful tool in reducing the number of PIF.
Do public pensions crowd out private transfers to the elderly?: evidence from South Korea
Authors: JUNG HAEIL , PIROG MAUREEN , LEE SANG KYOO
Published: January 2015

We investigate the impact of receiving a public pension on total expenditures, food expenditures, and private transfers of the elderly in South Korea. Using a natural experiment that occurred in 1999, we are able to explore the impacts of a large public pension program expansion which newly incorporated people who had been self-employed, unemployed, and out of the labor force. We find that receipt of a public pension did not allow the elderly to increase total expenditures or food expenditures because the expansion of public pensions largely crowded out financial transfers from adult children and/or own siblings.
The “do-not-resuscitate” order in palliative surgery: Ethical issues and a review on policy in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Wing Lok
Published: January 2015

A do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order, or “advance directive,” is commonly seen in the cases of palliative patients who express a wish to withhold specific resuscitative therapies in the event of a cardiac arrest. With recent technological advances, there are increasing numbers of palliative patients who undergo surgical interventions to treat their symptoms and discomfort. The decision to suspend DNR orders for palliative surgery is always a matter for debate. The present article describes a case and the ethical issues involved and gives some practical suggestions for those facing similar problems. We also review the latest DNR policy in Hong Kong.
Understanding ‘cyberchondria’: an interpretive phenomenological analysis of the purpose, methods and impact of seeking health information online for those with health anxiety
Authors: McManus Freda , Leung Christie , Muse Kate , Williams J. Mark G.
Published: January 2015

‘Cyberchondria’ describes the phenomenon of searching for health information online exacerbating health anxiety. This study explores health anxious individuals’ experiences of searching for health information online to further understand ‘cyberchondria’. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore participants’ (N = 8) experiences of searching for health information online. Transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Four themes emerged: ‘information is power’, ‘novelty of Internet searching’, ‘need for strategies to navigate the search: Google, authority and cross-checking’, and ‘cyberchondria: short-term gain but long-term pain’. Participants’ accounts suggested they sought health information online as a form of problem solving: to understand their problem and decide on a strategy for solving it, to feel better about having the problem by having ‘done something’ about it, or to share others’ similar experiences. Seeking online health information was prompted by negative expectations of healthcare professionals, yet was not seen as a replacement for medical consultations. Participants noted the accessibility of the Internet and were aware that information is sometimes inaccurate or irrelevant. Thus participants used strategies to filter and validate information. The findings are considered in relation to what they tell us about the purpose, methods and impact of seeking health information online among individuals with health anxiety.
The good, the bad, and the ambitious: democracy and autocracy promoters competing in Belarus
Authors: Yakouchyk Katsiaryna
Published: January 2015

How do China, Russia, and the European Union (EU) facilitate or hinder political liberalization in Belarus? In this paper, using the qualitative case study method, I primarily highlight the competition that the EU faces with the Russian active autocracy promotion in Belarus. The EU provides aid only in exchange for promise of democratic and economic reforms, which might be very costly and danger the persistence of ruling elites. Russia, at the same time, offers economic and diplomatic support to Belarus, which is, however, conditioned by privatization of the Belarusian strategic assets in favor of Russian stakeholders. I also claim that China, with growing international ambitions, passively supports autocracy in Belarus, by providing financial aid without interfering with internal political affairs. For Belarus, whose leadership still enjoys legitimation by a large part of the population due to the economic stability, losing major state enterprises might weaken sovereignty. Thus, diversification of economic partners is of crucial importance for Belarus. I argue that Belarusian ruling elites may have found an escape away from democratic and autocratic pushes from the EU and Russia, respectively, by increasing linkages with China. To promote effectively democracy in its neighborhood, the EU ought to reconsider interactions with external non-democratic actors. The paper concludes by providing some policy recommendations for the EU.
Untersuchung von Opfern nach interpersoneller Gewalt
Authors: Laberke Patrick J. , Martinez Rosa Maria , Mauf Sabrina , Bartsch Christine
Published: January 2015

Interpersonelle Gewalt stellt ein weit verbreitetes Phänomen mit hoher Prävalenz dar. Die Folgen von Gewalttaten sind für die Betroffenen und aus sozioökonomischer Sicht oft schwerwiegend und weitreichend. Die Untersuchung von Opfern häuslicher und sexueller Gewalt ist ein Schwerpunkt der rechtsmedizinischen Begutachtungstätigkeit. Der folgende Artikel beschreibt die Grundlagen und das Vorgehen bei der rechtsmedizinischen Untersuchung von Gewaltopfern.
The effects of disruptions in ribosomal active sites and in intersubunit contacts on ribosomal degradation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Paier Anton , Leppik Margus , Soosaar Aksel , Tenson Tanel , Maiväli Ülo
Published: January 2015

Although ribosomes are very stable under most conditions, ribosomal degradation does occur in diverse groups of organisms in response to specific stresses or environmental conditions. While non-functional ribosome decay (NRD) in yeast is well characterized, very little is known of the mechanisms that initiate ribosomal degradation in bacteria. Here we test ribosome degradation in growing Escherichia coli expressing mutant ribosomes. We found that mutations in the 16S rRNA decoding centre (G530U and A1492C) and 23S rRNA active site (A2451G) do not lead to ribosomal degradation. In contrast, 23S rRNA mutation U2585A causes degradation of both the large and small ribosomal subunits in E. coli. We further tested mutations in 23S rRNA, which disrupt ribosomal intersubunit bridges B2a and B3. Deletion of helix 69 of 23S rRNA and the point mutation A1912G in the same helix did not destabilize ribosomes, while expression of mutations A1919G in H69 and A1960G in H71 led to degradation of both mutant and wild-type ribosomes. Our results suggest an actively induced mechanism requiring de novo protein synthesis for ribosomal degradation in E. coli, which degrades both structurally inactive and active ribosomes.
Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Survival Outcomes of First-line Treatment Options in High-risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lei Jun H. , Liu Liang R. , Wei Qiang , Yan Shi B. , Song Tu R. , Lin Fu S. , Yang Lu , Cao De H. , Yuan Hai C. , Xue Wen B. , Lv Xiao , Cai Ying C. , Zeng Hao , Han Ping
Published: January 2015

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common non-dermatologic cancer in the western countries in western countries. High-risk PCa accounts for 15% of the diagnosed cases. In this study, we compare the long-term survival outcomes of radical prostatectomy (RP), radiation therapy (RT), brachytherapy (BT), androgen- deprivation therapy (ADT) and watchful waiting (WW) in high-risk prostate cancer (PCa). Overall, RP/(RT plus ADT) gave the best survival outcome in patients with high-risk PCa, whereas ADT/WW had the worst outcome. The overall priority for treatment strategy could be ranked as follows: RP/(RT plus ADT), RT and ADT/WW. RP had significant better overall survival (OS) than RT or BT and RP had significant lower cancer-specific mortality (CSM) than RT (0.51 [95% CI 0.30–0.73], P<0.001). ADT improved the cancer-specific survival (CSS) of RP based on a case-controlled study; added ADT to RT failed to challenge the position of RP but could improve the outcome of RT. In conclusions,RP/(RT plus adjuvant ADT) could both be used for the first-line therapy of high-risk PCa. When encountering an individual patient, urologists should consider various factors like tumors themselves, preferences of individuals and so on.
Near-infrared fluorescence probe for the determination of acid phosphatase and imaging of prostate cancer cells
Authors: Lin Zihan , Liu Ziping , Zhang Hao , Su Xingguang
Published: January 2015

We had successfully applied the near-infrared CuInS2 QDs-based fluorescence acid phosphatases probe to perform in vitro imaging of human prostate cancer cells.
The lipid-reactive oxygen species phenotype of breast cancer. Raman spectroscopy and mapping, PCA and PLSDA for invasive ductal carcinoma and invasive lobular carcinoma. Molecular tumorigenic mechanisms beyond Warburg effect
Authors: Surmacki Jakub , Brozek-Pluska Beata , Kordek Radzislaw , Abramczyk Halina
Published: January 2015

The paper demonstrates that Raman imaging has reached a clinically relevant level in regard to breast cancer diagnosis applications.
Self-cleaning properties in engineered sensors for dopamine electroanalytical detection
Authors: Soliveri Guido , Pifferi Valentina , Panzarasa Guido , Ardizzone Silvia , Cappelletti Giuseppe , Meroni Daniela , Sparnacci Katia , Falciola Luigi
Published: January 2015

A self-cleaning reusable composite electrode is ad hoc designed to bypass the fouling problem connected with biomedical molecule detection (e.g. dopamine).
Three-dimensional activated graphene network–sulfonate-terminated polymer nanocomposite as a new electrode material for the sensitive determination of dopamine and heavy metal ions
Authors: Yuan Xiaoyan , Zhang Yijia , Yang Lu , Deng Wenfang , Tan Yueming , Ma Ming , Xie Qingji
Published: January 2015

A 3D activated graphene network–sulfonate-terminated polymer nanocomposite was used for the sensitive determination of dopamine and heavy metal ions.