bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronicle of the "Anglo-Yugoslav Children’s Hospital" in Sremska Kamenica
Authors: Dobanovacki Dusanka , Mikic Zelimir , Vuckovic Nada
Published: July 2015

As a peacetime work of Katherine S. Macphail (Glasgow, 1887- St. Andrews,
1974) MB ChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery), the Anglo-Serbian Children?s
Hospital in Belgrade was established after World War I, and the
English-Yugoslav Children?s Hospital for Treatment of Osteoarticular
Tuberculosis was founded in Sremska Kamenica in 1934. Situated on the Fruska
Gora slope, the hospital-sanatorium was a well-equipped medical institution
with an operating theatre and x-ray machine providing very advanced therapy,
comparable to those in Switzerland and England: aero and heliotherapy, good
quality nourishment, etc. In addition, school lessons were organized as well
as several types of handwork as the work-therapy. It was a privately owned
hospital but almost all the children were treated free of cost. The age for
admission was up to 14. During the period from 1934 to 1937, around 458
children underwent hospital treatment, most of them with successful results.
During the war years the Sanatorium was closed but after the war it was
reactivated. In 1948 by the act of final nationalization of all medical
institutions in the communist Yugoslavia, the hospital was transformed into a
ward of orthopedic surgery under the supervision of the referent departments
in Belgrade and Novi Sad. Today, hospital is out of work and deprived of its
humanitarian mission. The building is neglected and in ruins although it has
been proclaimed the national treasure by the Regional Institute for
Protection of Monuments of Culture.
Autoimmune thyroid disease and associated autoimmunity
Authors: Djurica Snezana , Trbojevic Bozo , Milosevic Dragoslav , Markovic Natasa
Published: July 2015

Autoimmune diseases are manifested in a broad spectrum. Classic examples of
organ-specific autoimmune disease include Addison?s disease,
insulin-dependent type-1 Diabetes mellitus, Grave?s disease (MGB), and
Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT). The initial report of this autoimmune thyroid
disease (AITD) dates back to Hakira Hashimoto (1912). In HT, as an
organ-specific autoimmune disease, massive infiltration of lymphoid cells and
parenchyma destruction are a consistent feature. The infiltration appears to
be immune-mediated, primarily lymphocytic (T helper, T suppressor cells), NK
cells and B cells. The pathological characteristics of AITD include
development of the goitre (atrophic form is not so frequent), impaired
thyroid gland function (from hyperthyroidism to subclinical and manifested
hypothyroidism) and the formation of antithyroidal antibodies against
thyroglobulin (AbTg) and the microsomal antigen (Ab TPO). There is a very
good correlation between the antibodies against TPO and the histological
findings. Morbus Graves Basedow is characterized by autoimmune
hyperthyroidism with goitre, and infiltrative orbitopathy. Autoantibodies
against the TSH-receptor molecule on the plasma membrane of the thyroid gland
follicles cause a nonphysiological activation and an increase of the cellular
function. Besides this hyperthyroidal condition, an autoimmune attack against
the retrobulbar tissue leading to endocrine orbitopathy, can be noted in
about 40% of patients suffering from MGB.
Do Stock-Based Compensation Deferred Tax Assets Provide Incremental Information about Future Tax Payments?
Authors: Johnston Derek , Kutcher Lisa
Published: July 2015

We explore whether an accounting treatment similar to that required under IFRS improves the ability of the stock-based compensation component of deferred tax assets to predict future tax payments, relative to U.S. GAAP. Using hand-collected data for S&P 500 firms, we estimate the deferred tax assets related to employee stock options (ESOs) and restricted stock units (RSUs). We find that the RSU deferred tax asset is negatively related to future cash tax payments, while we fail to find that the ESO deferred tax asset is. However, after reducing the ESO and RSU deferred tax assets by their corresponding estimated impairments, we find that both variables are negatively associated with future tax payments. Additional analysis provides evidence that supports the conjecture that using a revaluation approach to account for stock-based compensation deferred tax assets may be more useful in predicting future tax cash flows, relative to current U.S. GAAP.

JEL Classifications: H25; M41.
Should U.S. and Global Regulators Take a Bigger Tax Bite Out of Technology Companies? A Case on Apple's International Tax Minimization and Reporting Strategies
Authors: Holtzblatt Mark A. , Geekie John , Tschakert Norbert
Published: July 2015

This case provides students with an opportunity to examine the international tax minimization and reporting strategies of Apple Inc. (Apple) and other technology companies, as well as the related U.S. congressional investigations into “Offshore Profit Shifting and the U.S. Tax Code.” The case also addresses supranational and foreign governmental efforts that focus on these global tax issues. Apple has been able to minimize its overall tax bill by utilizing techniques to shift income to lower tax jurisdictions. Students are required to research and critically analyze tax and accounting issues related to Apple's tax minimization strategies, as well as the related U.S. and international regulatory investigations. The case learning objectives include understanding the importance of tax minimization and reporting strategies, increasing knowledge of congressional concerns about multinational tax strategies, and improving awareness of foreign governments' and supranational organizations' criticisms of multinational tax minimization. The case can be used in undergraduate and graduate level International Accounting, Corporate Taxation, and International Taxation classes.
Relationship between intracranial pressure as measured by an epidural intracranial pressure monitoring system and optic nerve sheath diameter in healthy dogs
Authors: Ilie Laura A. , Thomovsky Elizabeth J. , Johnson Paula A. , Bentley R. Timothy , Heng Hock Gan , Lee Hee C. , Moore George E.
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between ultrasonographically measured optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) and acute increases in intracranial pressure (ICP) as measured by an epidural intracranial pressure monitoring system (EICPMS) in healthy dogs.

ANIMALS 6 young healthy dogs.

PROCEDURES An EICPMS connected to a pressure monitor was used to generate a continuous pressure waveform in each anesthetized dog. A 22-gauge IV catheter was inserted into the brain parenchyma through the contralateral parietal bone, and 0.5 to 2.0 mL of anticoagulated autologous blood was injected at predetermined intervals. At baseline (immediately after EICPMS placement) and following each injection, the ICP as indicated by EICPMS was recorded, and 3 ultrasonographic images of the optic nerve sheath of each eye were obtained. The ONSD was measured at maximum diameter and at 5 mm caudal to the optic disk.

RESULTS In linear models, the maximum ONSD was positively associated with increasing ICP. Specifically, the rate of maximum ONSD increase was greater for pressures ≤ 20 mm Hg above baseline (0.0534 mm/1 mm Hg ICP increase) than for pressures > 40 mm Hg above baseline (0.0087 mm/1 mm Hg ICP increase). The relationship of ICP to maximum ONSD was slightly nonlinear and best explained by comparison of fractional polynomial regression models.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE ICP was positively and nonlinearly associated with increasing maximum ONSD, especially when ICP was ≤ 20 mm Hg above baseline, supporting the conclusion that ultrasonographic measurement of maximum ONSD may provide a noninvasive monitoring tool for evaluation of ICP in dogs. Further research is needed to assess the utility of these measurements in clinical patients.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the factor Xa inhibitor apixaban after oral and intravenous administration to cats
Authors: Myers Jennifer A. , Wittenburg Luke A. , Olver Christine S. , Martinez Caitlyn M. , Bright Janice M.
Published: July 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the novel factor Xa inhibitor apixaban in clinically normal cats.

ANIMALS 5 purpose-bred domestic shorthair cats.

PROCEDURES A single dose of apixaban (0.2 mg/kg, PO) was administered to each cat (time 0), and blood samples were obtained at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 240, 360, 480, and 1,440 minutes. After a 1-week washout period, another dose of apixaban (0.2 mg/kg, IV) was administered to each cat, and blood samples were obtained at 0, 5, 10, 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 240, 360, 480, and 1,440 minutes. Apixaban concentrations in plasma were measured via liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacodynamic effects of apixaban were determined with a commercial assay for factor × activity, which measures endogenous factor Xa activity chromogenically.

RESULTS Factor Xa was inhibited as a function of time after a single dose of apixaban administered orally or IV, and a direct inverse correlation with the plasma apixaban concentration was detected. Pharmacokinetic analysis revealed moderate clearance, short half-life, and high bioavailability for apixaban. A 2-compartment model was fit to the IV pharmacokinetic data; compartmental modeling could not be used to adequately describe the oral data because of substantial interindividual variability.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results inticated that apixaban was an effective inhibitor of factor Xa in cats. Further studies will be needed to determine pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics after multidose administration, effects of cardiac disease on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, dosing recommendations, and efficacy of apixaban for use in the treatment and prevention of thromboembolic disease in cats.
An acoustic analysis of Pahari oral vowels
Authors: Khan Abdul Qadir
Published: July 2015

The aim of the current study is to present an acoustic account of the twelve oral vowels of Pahari by analyzing their formant pattern (F1 and F2) and duration. T o achieve this aim, an experiment was conducted. T em native speakers of Pahari participated in the study and were given a list of 12 oral vowels in CVC context for recording, where V is the target vowel. T he recorded material was analyzed by using Praat software. T he spectral analysis (F1 and F2) show that Pahari has four close, six mid and two open vowels. T he results also show that in term of duration these vowels occur in the form of long-short pairs that differ significantly quantatively (vowel duration).The study further exhibits that the short vowels are centralized as compared to their long counterpart
Early Incorporation of an Evidence-Based Aquatic-Assisted Approach to Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Rehabilitation: Prospective Case Study
Authors: Burmaster Chris , Eckenrode Brian J. , Stiebel Matthew
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose

Both traditional and progressive rotator cuff repair rehabilitation protocols often delay active motion of the shoulder for 6 weeks or more. The early inclusion of a comprehensive aquatic-assisted exercise program presents a unique approach to postoperative management. The purpose of this case study is to describe a comprehensive evidence-based, aquatic-assisted rehabilitation program following arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Case Description

A 73-year-old woman with a nonretracted, medium-size, full-thickness tear (2.5 cm) of the supraspinatus tendon underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and was referred for postoperative physical therapy. The rehabilitation program was initiated at 2 weeks postoperatively and consisted of concurrent land- and aquatic-based interventions over 6 weeks for a total of 18 physical therapy visits.

Outcomes

Improvements were made in all 5 patient-reported outcome measures that were recorded weekly over the course of care. Improvements reached or exceeded minimal detectable change levels for the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index and the Penn Shoulder Score. Her numeric pain rating scale score at rest decreased from 4/10 at the initial evaluation to 2/10 at 8 weeks postoperatively and with activity decreased from 9/10 to 6/10. Shoulder strength and range of motion values also exhibited improvement over the course of care. No adverse events occurred during the case study.

Discussion

This case study illustrates the safe inclusion of low-stress aquatic exercises as an early adjunct to traditional land-based rotator cuff repair rehabilitation programs in small- to medium-size repairs. Further studies are needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of adding aquatic therapy to traditional postoperative programs.
The Impact of Flexographic and Digital Printing of Fruit Drinks on Consumer Attention at the Point of Sale
Authors: Hurley Rupert , Rice Julie , Cottrell David , Felty Drew
Published: July 2015

Package labels play a critical role in communicating product benefits to consumers. On a package, labels are used to provide useful information about the product as well branding for the company. Labels need to not only be eye catching to the consumer, but must also communicate information concerning what is being sold. This is possible through various printing technologies available in today’s market. With technology steadily advancing, companies need to determine an optimal print method for packaging that satisfies budgetary, environmental, demand and consumer requirements. Through the collection of quantitative data, consumer attention and purchase preference were evaluated. Two different printing methods (digital and flexographic) were tested on fruit drink labels. A total of 248 participants completed this study, which took place at Pack Expo 2014 in Chicago, Illinois. Three eye tracking metrics were evaluated using eye tracking technology to investigate if the different printing methods had an effect on the consumer when shopping. Statistical analysis yielded no significant difference for participant’s attention when shopping for fruit drinks with digital or flexographic labels. It was also concluded that the position on the shelf made no significant difference for either label type. This study illustrates that consumers cannot significantly determine a difference between the two printing methods tested.
The Use of C-MnO2 as Hybrid Precursor Support for a Pt/C-MnxO1+x Catalyst with Enhanced Activity for the Methanol Oxidation Reaction (MOR)
Authors: Videla Alessandro , Osmieri Luigi , Esfahani Reza , Zeng Juqin , Francia Carlotta , Specchia Stefania
Published: July 2015

Platinum (Pt) nanoparticles are deposited on a hybrid support (C-MnO2) according to a polyol method. The home-made catalyst, resulted as Pt/C-MnxO1+x, is compared with two different commercial platinum based materials (Pt/C and PtRu/C). The synthesized catalyst is characterized by means of FESEM, XRD, ICP-MS, XPS and μRS analyses. MnO2 is synthesized and deposited over a commercial grade of carbon (Vulcan XC72) by facile reduction of potassium permanganate in acidic solution. Pt nanoparticles are synthesized on the hybrid support by a polyol thermal assisted method (microwave irradiation), followed by an annealing at 600 °C. The obtained catalyst displays a support constituted by a mixture of manganese oxides (Mn2O3 and Mn3O4) with a Pt loading of 19 wt. %. The electro-catalytic activity towards MOR is assessed by RDE in acid conditions (0.5 M H2SO4), evaluating the ability to oxidize methanol in 1 M concentration. The synthesized Pt/C-MnxO1+x catalyst shows good activity as well as good stability compared to the commercial Pt/C based catalyst.
Generalized Combination Complex Synchronization for Fractional-Order Chaotic Complex Systems
Authors: Jiang Cuimei , Liu Shutang , Wang Da
Published: July 2015

Based on two fractional-order chaotic complex drive systems and one fractional-order chaotic complex response system with different dimensions, we propose generalized combination complex synchronization. In this new synchronization scheme, there are two complex scaling matrices that are non-square matrices. On the basis of the stability theory of fractional-order linear systems, we design a general controller via active control. Additionally, by virtue of two complex scaling matrices, generalized combination complex synchronization between fractional-order chaotic complex systems and real systems is investigated. Finally, three typical examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the schemes.
Computational Fluid Dynamics Prediction of a Modified Savonius Wind Turbine with Novel Blade Shapes
Authors: Tian Wenlong , Song Baowei , VanZwieten James , Pyakurel Parakram
Published: July 2015

The Savonius wind turbine is a type of vertical axis wind turbine (VAWTs) that is simply composed of two or three arc-type blades which can generate power even under poor wind conditions. A modified Savonius wind turbine with novel blade shapes is introduced with the aim of increasing the power coefficient of the turbine. The effect of blade fullness, which is a main shape parameter of the blade, on the power production of a two-bladed Savonius wind turbine is investigated using transient computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Simulations are based on the Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations with a renormalization group turbulent model. This numerical method is validated with existing experimental data and then utilized to quantify the performance of design variants. Results quantify the relationship between blade fullness and turbine performance with a blade fullness of 1 resulting in the highest coefficient of power, 0.2573. This power coefficient is 10.98% higher than a conventional Savonius turbine.
Affirming the Value of the Resident Assessment Instrument: Minimum Data Set Version 2.0 for Nursing Home Decision-Making and Quality Improvement
Authors: Drummond Lindsay , Slaughter Susan , Jones C. , Wagg Adrian
Published: July 2015

Background: We examined the agreement over time of the physical functioning domains of the Resident Assessment Instrument: Minimum Data Set Version 2.0 (RAI-MDS) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) in nursing home residents with dementia. Methods: We completed a secondary analysis of data from a longitudinal quasi-experimental study of residents who could transfer independently or with the assistance of one person. FIM assessments were completed at up to three time points by researchers using interviews. RAI-MDS assessments, completed by nursing home staff, were matched to the FIM assessment by nearest time. FIM and RAI-MDS assessments were correlated based on time between assessments using Pearson’s correlation. Items for activities of daily living (ADL) from the RAI-MDS were rescaled using two previously published crosswalks. Motor and ADL subscales were also used, containing eight and six items, respectively. Results: A total of 362 paired interviews and assessments were collected from 130 residents. The mean scores and standard deviations were as follows: FIM: 19.64 (7.60); William’s RAI-MDS crosswalk: 18.04 (5.25); and Velozo’s RAI-MDS crosswalk: 18.09 (6.50). Using both crosswalks, most items showed medium (r > 0.3) or large (r > 0.5) correlations, even at greater than 41 days between assessments. Subscales showed large correlations for all time intervals for both crosswalks. Conclusions: The RAI-MDS remains stable when data are collected greater than 41 days from the FIM assessment. These findings should add confidence in the RAI-MDS data and its clinical utility.
The Effect of Superstructures Connected to Implants with Different Surface Properties on the Surrounding Bone
Authors: Koretake Katsunori , Oue Hiroshi , Okada Shinsuke , Takeda Yosuke , Doi Kazuya , Akagawa Yasumasa , Tsuga Kazuhiro
Published: July 2015

The objective of this study was to investigate how the connection of superstructures to implants with different surface properties affects the surrounding bone. The right and left mandibular premolars and molars of 5 dogs were extracted. After 12 weeks, a machined implant was placed mesially and an anodized implant was placed distally on one side of the edentulous jaw, with the positions reversed on the opposite side. Twelve weeks after implantation, splinted superstructures were set to the implants. At 24 weeks after implantation, the implant stability quotient (ISQ) was measured, radiographs were obtained. Removal torque values were measured and histologic observation was performed. The ISQ values at 24 weeks after implantation were not significantly different between the groups. The removal torque values were significantly different between the distal anodized and distal machined implants (p < 0.05). From 12 to 24 weeks, marginal bone losses were not significantly different between the groups. Fluorescent observation of tissue samples revealed bone-remodeling activity around all of the implants. The results of this study suggest that when implants with different surface properties are connected, machined implants at the most distal sites might be a potential risk factor for implant-bone binding.
Enforcement Issues in the Governance of Ships’ Carbon Emissions
Authors: Bloor Michael , Baker Susan , Sampson Helen , Dahlgren Katrin
Published: July 2015

The shipping industry, although relatively carbon-efficient, is projected to produce rising carbon emissions in the future as a consequence of increasing world trade. A number of candidate regulations designed to mitigate these emissions have been canvassed by the UN’s International Maritime Organisation and by the European Commission. Many of these schemes are focussed on the use of market measures—emission trading schemes or fuel levies. This paper draws on observational and interview data gathered to examine enforcement issues associated with the control of ships’ sulphur emissions in order to consider the possible enforcement problems that might be associated with projected market measures to control ships’ carbon emissions. Enforcement problems are shown to be associated with the globalised character of the industry and its polycentric governance structure.
Important Parameter Groups in Thermal Protection of Polymers
Authors: Staggs John
Published: July 2015

The problem of thermal protection is explored for two idiosyncratic reactive systems, namely a sacrificial heat-sink material and an intumescent system where a dynamically evolving insulation layer is produced from an initially thin coating. Relatively simple mathematical models of both systems are proposed that encompass the important physical characteristics of each situation and these models are analysed using a mixture of numerical and analytical techniques. Important dimensionless parameter groups are identified and domains of parameter space where thermal performance is particularly good- or particularly bad- are identified.
Synthesis and Enzymatic Incorporation of Modified Deoxyuridine Triphosphates
Authors: Liu Erkai , Lam Curtis , Perrin David
Published: July 2015

To expand the chemical functionality of DNAzymes and aptamers, several new modified deoxyuridine triphosphates have been synthesized. An important precursor that enables this aim is 5-aminomethyl dUTP, whereby the pendent amine serves as a handle for further synthetic functionalization. Five functional groups were conjugated to 5-aminomethyl dUTP. Incorporation assays were performed on several templates that demand 2–5 sequential incorporation events using several commercially available DNA polymerases. It was found that Vent (exo-) DNA polymerase efficiently incorporates all five modified dUTPs. In addition, all nucleoside triphosphates were capable of supporting a double-stranded exponential PCR amplification. Modified PCR amplicons were PCR amplified into unmodified DNA and sequenced to verify that genetic information was conserved through incorporation, amplification, and reamplification. Overall these modified dUTPs represent new candidate substrates for use in selections using modified nucleotide libraries.
Monopolistic Insurance and the Value of Information
Authors: Snow Arthur
Published: July 2015

The value of information regarding risk class for a monopoly insurer and its customers is examined in both symmetric and asymmetric information environments. A monopolist always prefers contracting with uninformed customers as this maximizes the rent extracted under symmetric information while also avoiding the cost of adverse selection when information is held asymmetrically. Although customers are indifferent to symmetric information when they are initially uninformed, they prefer contracting with hidden knowledge rather than symmetric information since the monopoly responds to adverse selection by sharing gains from trade with high-risk customers when low risks are predominant in the insurance pool. However, utilitarian social welfare is highest when customers are uninformed, and is higher when information is symmetric rather than asymmetric.
Intent Understanding Using an Activation Spreading Architecture
Authors: Saffar Mohammad , Nicolescu Mircea , Nicolescu Monica , Rekabdar Banafsheh
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we propose a new approach for recognizing intentions of humans by observing their activities with a color plus depth (RGB-D) camera. Activities and goals are modeled as a distributed network of inter-connected nodes in an Activation Spreading Network (ASN). Inspired by a formalism in hierarchical task networks, the structure of the network captures the hierarchical relationship between high-level goals and low-level activities that realize these goals. Our approach can detect intentions before they are realized and it can work in real-time. We also extend the formalism of ASNs to incorporate contextual information into intent recognition. We further augment the ASN formalism with special nodes and synaptic connections to model ordering constraints between actions, in order to represent and handle partial-order plans in our ASN. A fully functioning system is developed for experimental evaluation. We implemented a robotic system that uses our intent recognition to naturally interact with the user. Our ASN based intent recognizer is tested against three different scenarios involving everyday activities performed by a subject, and our results show that the proposed approach is able to detect low-level activities and recognize high-level intentions effectively in real-time. Further analysis shows that contextual and partial-order ASNs are able to discriminate between otherwise ambiguous goals.
Insights on Capacitive Interdigitated Electrodes Coated with MOF Thin Films: Humidity and VOCs Sensing as a Case Study
Authors: Sapsanis Christos , Omran Hesham , Chernikova Valeriya , Shekhah Osama , Belmabkhout Youssef , Buttner Ulrich , Eddaoudi Mohamed , Salama Khaled
Published: July 2015

A prototypical metal-organic framework (MOF), a 2D periodic porous structure based on the assembly of copper ions and benzene dicarboxylate (bdc) ligands (Cu(bdc)·xH2O), was grown successfully as a thin film on interdigitated electrodes (IDEs). IDEs have been used for achieving planar CMOS-compatible low-cost capacitive sensing structures for the detection of humidity and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Accordingly, the resultant IDEs coated with the Cu(bdc)·xH2O thin film was evaluated, for the first time, as a capacitive sensor for gas sensing applications. A fully automated setup, using LabVIEW interfaces to experiment conduction and data acquisition, was developed in order to measure the associated gas sensing performance.
Fibre Optic Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring of Aircraft Composite Structures: Recent Advances and Applications
Authors: Di Sante Raffaella
Published: July 2015

In-service structural health monitoring of composite aircraft structures plays a key role in the assessment of their performance and integrity. In recent years, Fibre Optic Sensors (FOS) have proved to be a potentially excellent technique for real-time in-situ monitoring of these structures due to their numerous advantages, such as immunity to electromagnetic interference, small size, light weight, durability, and high bandwidth, which allows a great number of sensors to operate in the same system, and the possibility to be integrated within the material. However, more effort is still needed to bring the technology to a fully mature readiness level. In this paper, recent research and applications in structural health monitoring of composite aircraft structures using FOS have been critically reviewed, considering both the multi-point and distributed sensing techniques.
Initial Results Obtained with the First TWIN VLBI Radio Telescope at the Geodetic Observatory Wettzell
Authors: Schüler Torben , Kronschnabl Gerhard , Plötz Christian , Neidhardt Alexander , Bertarini Alessandra , Bernhart Simone , Porta Laura , Halsig Sebastian , Nothnagel Axel
Published: July 2015

Geodetic Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) uses radio telescopes as sensor networks to determine Earth orientation parameters and baseline vectors between the telescopes. The TWIN Telescope Wettzell 1 (TTW1), the first of the new 13.2 m diameter telescope pair at the Geodetic Observatory Wettzell, Germany, is currently in its commissioning phase. The technology behind this radio telescope including the receiving system and the tri-band feed horn is depicted. Since VLBI telescopes must operate at least in pairs, the existing 20 m diameter Radio Telescope Wettzell (RTW) is used together with TTW1 for practical tests. In addition, selected long baseline setups are investigated. Correlation results portraying the data quality achieved during first initial experiments are discussed. Finally, the local 123 m baseline between the old RTW telescope and the new TTW1 is analyzed and compared with an existing high-precision local survey. Our initial results are very satisfactory for X-band group delays featuring a 3D distance agreement between VLBI data analysis and local ties of 1 to 2 mm in the majority of the experiments. However, S-band data, which suffer much from local radio interference due to WiFi and mobile communications, are about 10 times less precise than X-band data and require further analysis, but evidence is provided that S-band data are well-usable over long baselines where local radio interference patterns decorrelate.
A New Urban Agenda: Introduction to the Special Issue on “Sustainable Urban Development”
Authors: Lehmann Steffen
Published: July 2015

Since the start of the 21st century, humanity has been a predominantly urban species. This Special Issue is about the future of cities and how urbanization will develop when based on principles of sustainability. It explores the underlying dimensions of the transformation of existing cities and the design of low carbon green precincts and their urban systems. The view of the papers presented in this Special Issue is holistic and takes questions of social sustainability into account. This editorial highlights the contents and methodologies of 13 selected papers, while presenting diverse issues in strategies, concepts and policies for sustainable urban development.
Landscape Changes and a Salt Production Sustainable Approach in the State of Salt Pan Area Decreasing on the Coast of Tianjin, China
Authors: Wang Hui , Xu Xuegong , Zhu Gaoru
Published: July 2015

Landsat images from 1979, 1988, 1999, 2008, and 2013 were used to analyze the landscape area change of salt pans lying on the coast of Tianjin. While initially (1979–1988), the area of Tianjin’s salt pan increased, later (1988–2013) it declined dramatically. In the first phase (1979–1988) of the studied period the primary roll-in landscape of the salt pan wasbarren land with an area of 60.0 km2. By 1988, the area of Tianjin’s salt pan rose to 457.8 km2. The main roll-out landscape of the salt pan during 1988–2013 was urban, barren land, village/town, harbor, and road whose area amounted to 69.8, 35.9, 27.3, 25.5 and 18.4 km2 respectively. The roll-out barren land will be transformed to construction land ultimately. By 2013, the total loss reached 167.3 km2, which was 36.5% of the salt pan area of Tianjin in 1988. With the development of coastal economy, the salterns with a lower economic value were transformed to and replaced by land use types with a higher economic value. This trend would influence the production of sea salt and the development of sodium hydroxide and sodium carbonate industries. Seawater desalination provides an opportunity for the restoration and compensation of salt production capacity. Based on the theory of circular economy and industrial symbiosis, in this article an industrial symbiosis model for sea salt production and sea water desalination is explored: “mariculture–power plant cooling–seawater desalination–Artemia culture–bromide extraction–sea salt production–salt chemical industry”. Through the application of this process sustainable development of the sea salt production in Tianjin could be achieved.
Modeling Fuel Choice among Households in Northern Cameroon
Authors: Nlom Jean , Karimov Aziz
Published: July 2015

The present study aims to explore economic and socio-demographic factors that influence a household’s probability to switch from firewood to cleaner fuels (kerosene and LPG) in northern Cameroon. The paper employs an ordered probit model to construct cooking patterns and fuel choices. Three main cooking sources are considered: firewood, kerosene, and liquefied petroleum gas. Utilized data are derived from a national survey conducted in 2004 by the Cameroonian National Institute of Statistics. The study analyzes the data related to the Sudano-Sahelian agro-ecological zone, which is one of the most affected by land degradation and decertification. While results indicate that there is a potential for a transition from traditional to cleaner fuels in the studied region, this transition is still in its earlier stage. The research demonstrates that firewood and kerosene prices, age of household heads, educational level of household heads and willingness to have a gas cylinder, as well as type of dwelling have a statistically significant impact on fuel-switching decisions.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Mediates RSV Infection in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Kong Michele , Whitley Richard , Peng Ning , Oster Robert , Schoeb Trenton , Sullender Wayne , Ambalavanan Namasivayam , Clancy John , Gaggar Amit , Blalock J.
Published: July 2015

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is an important human pathogen associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The present study tested the hypothesis that RSV infection would increase matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 expression, and that MMP-9 inhibition would decrease RSV replication both in vitro and in vivo. RSV A2 infection of human bronchial epithelial cells increased MMP-9 mRNA and protein release. Cells transfected with siRNA against MMP-9 following RSV infection had lower viral titers. In RSV infected wild-type (WT) mice, MMP-9, airway resistance and viral load peaked at day 2 post infection, and remained elevated on days 4 and 7. RSV infected MMP-9 knockout (KO) mice had decreased lung inflammation. On days 2 and 4 post inoculation, the RSV burden was lower in the MMP-9 KO mice compared to WT controls. In conclusion, our studies demonstrate that RSV infection is a potent stimulus of MMP-9 expression both in vitro and in vivo. Reduction of MMP-9 (via siRNA knockdown, and in MMP-9 KO mice) resulted in decreased viral replication. Our findings suggest MMP-9 is a potential therapeutic target for RSV disease.
Simple and efficient way of speeding up transmission calculations with k-point sampling
Authors: Falkenberg Jesper Toft , Brandbyge Mads
Published: July 2015

The transmissions as functions of energy are central for electron or phonon transport in the Landauer transport picture. We suggest a simple and computationally “cheap” post-processing scheme to interpolate transmission functions over k-points to get smooth well-converged average transmission functions. This is relevant for data obtained using typical “expensive” first principles calculations where the leads/electrodes are described by periodic boundary conditions. We show examples of transport in graphene structures where a speed-up of an order of magnitude is easily obtained.
Successful use of splenectomy in a patient with hepatitis C virus-related thrombocytopenia
Authors: Huang Xilian , Xie Yaping , Gao Daquan , Shi Pengfei , Qian Shenxian
Published: July 2015

This case report describes a 44-year-old female with hepatitis C virus-related thrombocytopenia. The laboratory tests showed a platelet count of 3×109/l, positive HCV serology and high serum concentration of HCV-RNA of 6.74×106 copy/ml. She was refractory to standard therapies including corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), thrombopoietin (TPO) and even interferon (IFN) regimens, due to the persistence of a low platelet count. At first, splenectomy was thought to be impossible, but then splenectomy was successfully performed and patient showed good tolerance and a constant normal platelet count after surgery. In conclusion, splenectomy is feasible in selected patients and may allow us to acquire a reasonable platelet count and completion of an anti-HCV protocol. Low platelet count itself should not be the contraindication of operation specifically for these patients. Further studies in larger numbers of patients and over a longer period of time are warranted.
New Kids on the Block
Authors: Ford Carrie Pemberton
Published: July 2015

Like Gender Economics, Trafficking in persons has only recently emerged into academic consciousness and business environment concerns, as a discrete area of study with its own particular areas of legal, socio-anthropological and economic principles, in the first decades of this third millennium. New discourses raise fresh questions and they are legion. The ‘new kids' seek to make sense of challenging phenomena and outline the terms through which, Trafficking in persons it is to be articulated to the wider academy, public services, market institutions, and civil society. This chapter explicates the connectedness of critiques Gender Economics has been using on businesses, to see how Human Traffickers exploit people's bodies and their gendered realities. There is certain passivity towards the human, inbuilt in neo-liberal markets which commodify the whole of life. Those least able to protect themselves from the abusive ‘entrepreneurship' of traffickers are traded, with their gendered reality affecting prices and outcomes.
CD36 Is Essential for Regulation of the Host Innate Response to Staphylococcus aureus α-Toxin–Mediated Dermonecrosis
Authors: Castleman Moriah J. , Febbraio Maria , Hall Pamela R.
Published: July 2015

Staphylococcus aureus is the primary cause of skin and skin structure infections (SSSIs) in the United States. α-Hemolysin (Hla), a pore-forming toxin secreted by S. aureus and a major contributor to tissue necrosis, prompts recruitment of neutrophils critical for host defense against S. aureus infections. However, the failure to clear apoptotic neutrophils can result in damage to host tissues, suggesting that mechanisms of neutrophil clearance are essential to limiting Hla-mediated dermonecrosis. We hypothesized that CD36, a scavenger receptor which facilitates recognition of apoptosing cells, would play a significant role in regulating Hla-mediated inflammation and tissue injury during S. aureus SSSI. In this study, we show that CD36 on macrophages negatively regulates dermonecrosis caused by Hla-producing S. aureus. This regulation is independent of bacterial burden, as CD36 also limits dermonecrosis caused by intoxication with sterile bacterial supernatant or purified Hla. Dermonecrotic lesions of supernatant intoxicated CD36−/− mice are significantly larger, with increased neutrophil accumulation and IL-1β expression, compared with CD36+/+ (wild-type) mice. Neutrophil depletion of CD36−/− mice prevents this phenotype, demonstrating the contribution of neutrophils to tissue injury in this model. Furthermore, administration of CD36+/+ but not CD36−/− macrophages near the site of intoxication reduces dermonecrosis, IL-1β production and neutrophil accumulation to levels seen in wild-type mice. This therapeutic effect is reversed by inhibiting actin polymerization in the CD36+/+ macrophages, supporting a mechanism of action whereby CD36-dependent macrophage phagocytosis of apoptotic neutrophils regulates Hla-mediated dermonecrosis. Taken together, these data demonstrate that CD36 is essential for controlling the host innate response to S. aureus skin infection.
Trends in task shifting in HIV treatment in Africa: Effectiveness, challenges and acceptability to the health professions
Authors: Crowley Talitha , Mayers Pat
Published: July 2015

Background: Task shifting has been suggested to meet the demand for initiating and managing more patients on antiretroviral therapy. Although the idea of task shifting is not new, it acquires new relevance in the context of current healthcare delivery.Aim: To appraise current trends in task shifting related to HIV treatment programmes in order to evaluate evidence related to the effectiveness of this strategy in addressing human resource constraints and improving patient outcomes, challenges identified in practice and the acceptability of this strategy to the health professions.Method: Electronic databases were searched for studies published in English between January 2009 and December 2014. Keywords such as ‘task shifting’, ‘HIV treatment’, ‘human resources’ and ‘health professions’ were used.Results: Evidence suggests that task shifting is an effective strategy for addressing human resource constraints in healthcare systems in many countries and provides a cost-effective approach without compromising patient outcomes. Challenges include inadequate supervision support and mentoring, absent regulatory frameworks, a lack of general health system strengthening and the need for monitoring and evaluation. The strategy generally seems to be accepted by the health professions although several arguments against task shifting as a long-term approach have been raised.Conclusion: Task shifting occurs in many settings other than HIV treatment programmes and is viewed as a key strategy for governing human resources for healthcare. It may be an opportune time to review current task shifting recommendations to include a wider range of programmes and incorporate initiatives to address current challenges.
Chest tuberculosis: Radiological review and imaging recommendations
Authors: Bhalla Ashu Seith , Goyal Ankur , Guleria Randeep , Gupta Arun Kumar
Published: July 2015

Chest tuberculosis (CTB) is a widespread problem, especially in our country where it is one of the leading causes of mortality. The article reviews the imaging findings in CTB on various modalities. We also attempt to categorize the findings into those definitive for active TB, indeterminate for disease activity, and those indicating healed TB. Though various radiological modalities are widely used in evaluation of such patients, no imaging guidelines exist for the use of these modalities in diagnosis and follow-up. Consequently, imaging is not optimally utilized and patients are often unnecessarily subjected to repeated CT examinations, which is undesirable. Based on the available literature and our experience, we propose certain recommendations delineating the role of imaging in the diagnosis and follow-up of such patients. The authors recognize that this is an evolving field and there may be future revisions depending on emergence of new evidence.
USG-guided needle-directed pulse-spray pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis of hemodialysis grafts/fistula: A novel technique
Authors: Amitha Vikrama KS , Srivalli N , Raju Venkataramana S
Published: July 2015

The incidence of end-stage renal disease is significantly increasing and most patients who require renal transplantation are undergoing hemodialysis through tunneled/non-tunneled dialysis catheters and arteriovenous fistulas. The greatest disadvantage of the hemodialysis access is  the limited durability of the arteriovenous fistulas and grafts, which, on average, remain patent for <3 years, but are the lifeline for hemodialysis patients. Catheter-directed interventions are successful in re-establishing flow in more than 80% of thrombosed hemodialysis fistulas and have become the treatment of choice for failing or thrombosed accesses. However, these interventions are expensive and require a tertiary center with well-equipped labs. The novel technique of needle-directed thrombolysis is less expensive and can be done on an OPD basis in any primary healthcare setup. To the extent we have searched, no such technique has been published so far in the English literature.
Perspectives in ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal interventions
Authors: Daftary Aditya Ravindra , Karnik Alpana Sudhir
Published: July 2015

Ultrasonography (USG) is a safe, easily available, and cost-effective modality, which has the additional advantage of being real time for imaging and image-guided interventions of the musculoskeletal system. Musculoskeletal interventions are gaining popularity in sports and rehabilitation for rapid healing of muscle and tendon injuries in professional athletes, healing of chronic tendinopathies, aspiration of joint effusions, periarticular bursae and ganglia, and perineural injections in acute and chronic pain syndromes. This article aims to provide an overview of the spectrum of musculoskeletal interventions that can be done under USG guidance both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Polyostotic fibrous dysplasia associated with intramuscular myxomas: Mazabraud syndrome
Authors: Samper Wamba Jose Daniel , Fernandez Bermudez Maria Jose , Dominguez Teresa Lorenzo , Pascua Luis Ramos
Published: July 2015

The authors report a new case of Mazabraud syndrome in a 69-year-old woman complaining of pain in her right thigh. Plain radiographs demonstrated radiological findings consistent with polyostotic fibrous dysplasia of the right femur and tibia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study showed soft tissue tumors located in the vastus intermedius muscle with typical signal features of intramuscular myxomas. Biopsy was not performed because of its benign nature. Symptomatic treatment was prescribed and all the lesions remained 1 year after the diagnosis.
Choledochal cyst of the cystic duct: Report of imaging findings in three cases and review of literature
Authors: Sethi Sonali , Upreti Lalendra , Verma Amit K , Puri Sunil K
Published: July 2015

The choledochal cysts, which refer to the cystic dilatation of the biliary duct, are rare lesions generally seen in children. Choledochal cyst of the cystic duct is an uncommon entity. Often, it is associated with the choledochal cyst of the rest of the biliary tree. Isolated cystic duct choledochal cyst is quite rare. Most of these lesions have been recognized only on surgery. Modern cross-sectional imaging methods have facilitated preoperative recognition and characterization of cystic duct cyst enabling formulation of appropriate management strategy. We report the imaging findings in three cases of choledochal cyst involving the cystic duct. All these cases were correctly diagnosed preoperatively. A review of cases reported in the literature and the role of imaging in guiding the management are also presented.
Local Heuristics and an Exact Formula for Abelian Surfaces Over Finite Fields
Authors: Achter Jeffrey , Williams Cassandra
Published: July 2015

Consider a quartic q-Weil polynomial ƒ. Motivated by equidistribution considerations, we define, for each prime ℓ, a local factor that measures the relative frequency with which ƒ mod ℓ occurs as the characteristic polynomial of a symplectic similitude over 𝔽ℓ. For a certain class of polynomials, we show that the resulting infinite product calculates the number of principally polarized abelian surfaces over 𝔽q with Weil polynomial ƒ.