bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Size of the Largest Part of Random Weighted Partitions of Large Integers
Authors: MUTAFCHIEV LJUBEN
Published: February 2013

We consider partitions of the positive integernwhose parts satisfy the following condition. For a given sequence of non-negative numbers {bk}k≥1, a part of sizekappears in exactlybkpossible types. Assuming that a weighted partition is selected uniformly at random from the set of all such partitions, we study the asymptotic behaviour of the largest partXn. LetD(s)=∑k=1∞bkk−s,s=σ+iy, be the Dirichlet generating series of the weightsbk. Under certain fairly general assumptions, Meinardus (1954) obtained the asymptotic of the total number of such partitions asn→∞. Using the Meinardus scheme of conditions, we prove thatXn, appropriately normalized, converges weakly to a random variable having Gumbel distribution (i.e., its distribution function equalse−e−t, −∞<t<∞). This limit theorem extends some known results on particular types of partitions and on the Bose–Einstein model of ideal gas.
Zap's Prague: the city, the nation and Czech elites before 1848
Authors: BRYANT CHAD
Published: February 2013

Karel Vladislav Zap, who came of age during the 1830 revolutions in Europe, belonged to a generation of Czech elites determined to promote national consciousness while actively carving out a space within Prague's middle-class social milieu. Zap, as his topographies of the city demonstrate, also called on his countrymen to claim the city and its structures from their German-speaking neighbours, thus contributing to a dynamic that would continue throughout the century.
Probing General Relativity with Accreting Black Holes
Authors: Fabian A. C.
Published: February 2013

Most of the X-ray emission from luminous accreting black holes emerges from within 20 gravitational radii. The effective emission radius is several times smaller if the black hole is rapidly spinning. General Relativistic effects can then be very important. Large spacetime curvature causes strong lightbending and large gravitational redshifts. The hard X-ray, power-law-emitting corona irradiates the accretion disc generating an X-ray reflection component. Atomic features in the reflection spectrum allow gravitational redshifts to be measured. Time delays between observed variations in the power-law and the reflection spectrum (reverberation) enable the physical scale of the reflecting region to be determined. The relative strength of the reflection and power-law continuum depends on light bending. All of these observed effects enable the immediate environment of the black hole where the effects of General Relativity are on display to be probed and explored.
Dusty origin of the Broad Line Region in active galaxies
Authors: Czerny Bozena , Hryniewicz Krzysztof , Kaluzny Janusz , Maity Ishita
Published: February 2013

The most characteristic property of active galaxies, including quasars, are prominent broad emission lines. I will discuss an interesting possibility that dust is responsible for this phenomenon. The dust is known to be present in quasars in the form of a dusty/molecular torus which results in complexity of the appearance of active galaxies. However, this dust is located further from the black hole than the Broad Line Region. We propose that the dust is present also closer in and it is actually responsible for formation of the broad emission lines. The argument is based on determination of the temperature of the disk atmosphere underlying the Broad Line Region: it is close to 1000 K, independently from the black hole mass and accretion rate of the object. The mechanism is simple and universal but leads to a considerable complexity of the active nucleus surrounding. The understanding the formation of BLR opens a way to use it reliably - in combination with reverberation measurement of its size - as standard candles in cosmology.
Outflows from Accretion Disks around Compact Objects
Authors: Jiao Cheng-Liang , Wu Xue-Bing
Published: February 2013

We solve the set of hydrodynamic equations for accretion disks in the spherical coordinates (rθφ) to obtain the explicit structure along the θ direction. The results display thinner, quasi-Keplerian disks for Shakura-Sunyaev Disks (SSDs) and thicker, sub-Keplerian disks for Advection Dominated Accretion Flows (ADAFs) and slim disks, which are consistent with previous popular analytical models, while an inflow region and an outflow region always exist, which supports the results of some recent numerical simulation works. Our results indicate that the outflows should be common in various accretion disks and stronger in slim disks and ADAFs.
Formation of millisecond pulsars - NS initial mass and EOS constraints
Authors: Bejger Michał , Fortin Morgane , Haensel Paweł , Zdunik J. Leszek
Published: February 2013

Recent measurement of a high millisecond pulsar mass (PSR J1614-2230, 1.97± 0.04 M⊙) compared with the low mass of PSR J0751+1807 (1.26± 0.14 M⊙) indicates a large span of masses of recycled pulsars and suggests a broad range of neutron stars masses at birth. We aim at reconstructing the pre-accretion masses for these pulsars while taking into account interaction of the magnetic field with a thin accretion disk, magnetic field decay and relativistic 2D solutions for stellar configurations for a set of equations of state. We briefly discuss the evolutionary scenarios leading to the formation of these neutron stars and study the influence of the equation of state.
Late-time evolution of ultracompact X-ray binaries
Authors: van Haaften L. M. , Nelemans G. , Voss R.
Published: February 2013

Ultracompact X-ray binaries (UCXBs) have orbital periods shorter than about 80 minutes and typically consist of a neutron star that accretes hydrogen-poor matter from a white dwarf companion. Angular momentum loss via gravitational wave radiation drives mass transfer via Roche-lobe overflow. The late-time evolution of UCXBs is poorly understood – all 13 known systems are relatively young and it is not clear why. One question is whether old UCXBs actually still exist, or have they become disrupted at some point? Alternatively they may be simply too faint to see. To investigate this, we apply the theories of dynamical instability, the magnetic propeller effect, and evaporation of the donor, to the UCXB evolution. We find that both the propeller effect and evaporation are promising explanations for the absence of observed long-period UCXBs.
Unveiling the super-orbital modulation of LS I + 61°303 in X-rays
Authors: Li Jian , Torres Diego F. , Zhang Shu , Hadasch Daniela , Rea Nanda , Caliandro G. Andrea , Chen Yupeng , Wang Jianmin
Published: February 2013

We found evidence for the super–orbital modulation in the X-ray emission of LS I + 61°303 from the longest monitoring date by the RXTE. The time evolution of the modulated fraction in the orbital light curves can be well fitted with a sinusoidal function having a super-orbital period of 1667 days. However, we have found a 281.8±44.6 day shift between the super-orbital variability found at radio frequencies and our X-ray data. We also find a super-orbital modulation in the maximum count rate of the orbital light curves, compatible with the former results, including the shift.
The Origin of Weak Emission-Line AGNs
Authors: Liu Yuan , Zhang Jin , Zhang Shuang-Nan
Published: February 2013

Some abnormal AGNs are discovered in the SDSS data recently. The usual UV/optical emission lines are exceptionally weak in their UV/optical spectroscopy, though the shapes and luminosities of their continua are comparable with that of the normal AGNs. We investigated the optical variations and the near-infrared spectra of these weak emission-line AGNs. We propose that these AGNs can be interpreted as the early stage of an active cycle of AGNs.
The AGN-Starburst Connection traced by the Nitrogen Abundance
Authors: Matsuoka Kenta , Nagao Tohru , Marconi Alessandro , Maiolino Roberto , Taniguchi Yoshiaki
Published: February 2013

The connection between the active galactic nuclei (AGNs) and star formation activity is one of the most important issues in understanding the coevolution of supermassive black holes (SMBHs) and galaxies. In our recent study, by using SDSS quasar spectra we found that the emission-line flux rations involving a nitrogen line correlate with the Eddington ratio. This correlation suggests that the mass accretion in quasars is associated with a post-starburst phase, when AGB stars enrich the interstellar medium with the nitrogen. Moreover, we focused on nitrogen-loud quasars, that have prominent emission lines of the nitrogen, to investigate whether this argument is correct. In this symposium, we present our results regarding the relation between the star formation and feeding to SMBHs traced by the nitrogen abundance.
Accretion Effects on Disks Around Non-Magnetic Compact Objects
Authors: Montgomery Michele M.
Published: February 2013

Accretion disks in compact binaries are thought to sometimes tilt and precess in the retrograde direction as indicated by modulations in light curves and/or signals. Using 3D Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics and a low mass transfer rate, Montgomery (2012) shows the disk in non-magnetic Cataclysmic Variables tilts naturally after enough time has passed. In that work, twice the fundamental negative superhump signal 2ν_ is associated with disk tilt around the line of nodes, gas stream overflow approximately twice per orbital period, and retrograde precession. In this work, we show that after enough additional time has passed in the same simulation, the 4ν_ harmonic appears. The decrease in the 2ν_ amplitude approximately equals the amplitude of the 4ν_ harmonic. We discuss the implications.
Progenitors of type Ia supernovae and their surviving companion stars
Authors: Wang B. , Liu Z. , Chen H. , Jia S. , Han Z.
Published: February 2013

Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) are the best cosmological distance indicator, however, there is still no agreement on the nature of their progenitors. There are mainly two progenitor scenarios, i.e., the single degenerate (SD) and double degenerate (DD) scenarios. In this article, we introduced our binary evolution models of various progenitor scenarios. We also obtained many properties of the surviving companions from various SD systems, which may be helpful for identifying SN Ia progenitor model. At present, it seems likely that more than one progenitor model may be required to explain the observed diversity of SNe Ia.
Parameter constrain in neutron star by twin kHz QPOs
Authors: Wang D. H. , Chen L.
Published: February 2013

We use data on twin kHz QPOs and measured neutron star (NS) masses to test the relation between the lower (ν1) and upper (ν2) peak frequencies predicted with the MHD Alfvén wave oscillation model (AWOM) and the general relativistic precession model (GRPM). In the context of AWOM, the NS radius can be constrained from kHz QPO data and a measured NS mass.
High speed photometry of faint Cataclysmic Variables: A progress report
Authors: Warner B. , Woudt P.
Published: February 2013

We summarise the results of observing faint cataclysmic variables from the Catalina Real-Time Transient Survey, resulting in confirming the theoretically predicted maximum in the orbital period histogram near a period of 80 minutes.
On the Reclassification of Short GRBs
Authors: Zhang Zhibin , Huang Yongfeng , Liu Hongchao
Published: February 2013

By collecting 17 short gamma-ray bursts with necessary data, we find a correlation of Lp ∝ Ep,i1.7, which is very consistent with that derived from a greatly expanded sample of 148 Swift long gamma-ray bursts. It is argued that the radiation mechanism of both long and short gamma-ray bursts should be similar, i.e., of quasi-thermal origin caused by the photosphere and the dissipation occurring very near the central engine. In addition, we suggest that the Ep,i-Lp relation can be used to identified a burst among normal short bursts, short bursts with extended emission and long bursts with short-hard properties. We also find the ratio of peak energy to fluence in the prompt γ-ray band is a prospective discriminator, similar to the traditional duration time.
Black hole masses from X-rays
Authors: Zhou Xin-Lin , Soria Roberto
Published: February 2013

We discuss two methods to estimate black hole (BH) masses using X-ray data only: from the X-ray variability amplitude and from the photon index Γ. The first method is based on the anti-correlation between BH mass and X-ray variability amplitude. Using a sample of AGN with BH masses from reverberation mapping, we show that this method shows small intrinsic scatter. The second method is based on the correlation between Γ and both the Eddington ratio Lbol/LEdd and the bolometric correction Lbol/L2−10keV.
Depressive Störungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Stegmann Benedikt , Wenzel-Seifert Katharina , Haen Ekkehard
Published: February 2013

Fragestellung: Die vorliegende Auswertung untersucht Prävalenz sowie medikamentöse Behandlung von stationär in den Kliniken der KinderAGATE behandelten Patienten mit einer depressiven Störung im Kindes- und Jugendalter 2010. Weiterhin werden Alters- und Geschlechterverteilung der Patienten diskutiert. Methodik: Seit Februar 2009 werden in den Kliniken der «KinderAGATE» an zwei «Stichtagen» pro Jahr von jedem Patienten folgende Daten erfasst: Alter, Geschlecht, Hauptdiagnose, verordnete Handelspräparate sowie Dosierung. Die so gewonnenen Daten bieten eine herausragende epidemiologische Grundlage für die Beobachtung des Verordnungsverhalten in der Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie. Ergebnisse: 8.4 % aller einbezogenen Patienten wurden 2010 im Kindes- und Jugendalter aufgrund einer depressiven Episode in den Kliniken der KinderAGATE stationär behandelt. Verglichen mit der Erwachsenenpsychiatrie (25.8 % Pat) ist dies ein deutlich geringerer Anteil. In unserer Stichprobe wurden männliche Patienten mit depressiven Störungen (58 % DPat, Durchschnittsalter 13.8 Jahre) häufiger und frühzeitiger als Patientinnen (42 % DPat, Durchschnittsalter 15.3 Jahre) behandelt. Fluoxetin und Mirtazapin wurden am häufigsten verordnet. Ebenfalls zum Einsatz kamen Sertralin, Citalopram und Escitalopram. Schlussfolgerung: Im Kindes- und Jugendalter wird im Vergleich zur Erwachsenenpsychiatrie nach wie vor zurückhaltend medikamentös therapiert. Ein Verzicht auf den «off-label-use» scheint derzeit schwierig. Die zahlreichen Verordnungen des derzeit für diese Indikation einzig zugelassenen SSRI Fluoxetin werfen die Frage nach möglichen offlabel Alternativen auf.
Golgi-situated endoplasmic reticulum α-1, 2-mannosidase contributes to the retrieval of ERAD substrates through a direct interaction with γ-COP
Authors: Pan Shujuan , Cheng Xiaoyun , Sifers Richard N.
Published: February 2013

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) α-1, 2-mannosidase (ERManI) contributes to ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD) by initiating the formation of degradation signals on misfolded N-linked glycoproteins. Despite its inferred intracellular location, we recently discovered that the mammalian homologue is actually localized to the Golgi complex. In the present study, the functional role of Golgi-situated ERManI was investigated. Mass spectrometry analysis and coimmunoprecipitation (co-IP) identified a direct interaction between ERManI and γ-COP, the gamma subunit of coat protein complex I (COPI) that is responsible for Golgi-to-ER retrograde cargo transport. The functional relationship was validated by the requirement of both ERManI and γ-COP to support efficient intracellular clearance of the classical ERAD substrate, null Hong Kong (NHK). In addition, site-directed mutagenesis of suspected γ-COP–binding motifs in the cytoplasmic tail of ERManI was sufficient to disrupt the physical interaction and ablate NHK degradation. Moreover, a physical interaction between NHK, ERManI, and γ-COP was identified by co-IP and Western blotting. RNA interference–mediated knockdown of γ-COP enhanced the association between ERManI and NHK, while diminishing the efficiency of ERAD. Based on these findings, a model is proposed in which ERManI and γ-COP contribute to a Golgi-based quality control module that facilitates the retrieval of captured ERAD substrates back to the ER.
On the Origins of Gender Roles: Women and the Plough
*
Authors: Alesina Alberto , Giuliano Paola , Nunn Nathan
Published: February 2013

The study examines the historical origins of existing cross-cultural differences in beliefs and values regarding the appropriate role of women in society. We test the hypothesis that traditional agricultural practices influenced the historical gender division of labor and the evolution of gender norms. We find that, consistent with existing hypotheses, the descendants of societies that traditionally practiced plough agriculture today have less equal gender norms, measured using reported gender-role attitudes and female participation in the workplace, politics, and entrepreneurial activities. Our results hold looking across countries, across districts within countries, and across ethnicities within districts. To test for the importance of cultural persistence, we examine the children of immigrants living in Europe and the United States. We find that even among these individuals, all born and raised in the same country, those with a heritage of traditional plough use exhibit less equal beliefs about gender roles today.
Management of Daylily Rust with Different Fungicides and Application Methods
Authors: Dong W. B. , Jeffers S. N. , Buck J. W.
Published: February 2013

The objectives of this study were to assess the efficacy of various fungicides applied as root dips, soil drenches, or foliar sprays to daylily plants grown in containers and planted in the field to manage rust caused by Puccinia hemerocallidis. Soil drenches and foliar sprays were evaluated in field experiments in Griffin, GA in 2010 and 2011. Dipping bare-root daylily plants for 5 min in azoxystrobin, tebuconazole, or thiophanate-methyl significantly reduced lesion development compared with nontreated control plants. Drenches with azoxystrobin, fluoxastrobin, or tebuconazole, each at three rates (0.06, 0.12, and 0.24 g of active ingredient [a.i.]/container), significantly reduced development of rust lesions on container-grown daylily plants for up to 9 weeks after treatment and 6 weeks after inoculation. One early-season drench of azoxystrobin at 0.12 g a.i‥/plant provided season-long reduction in disease incidence and disease progress that was comparable with foliar sprays with azoxystrobin or chlorothalonil applied at 14-day intervals. Dip or drench applications of fungicides would allow growers to diversify rust management options and could reduce the number of foliar fungicide applications.
Antenatal architecture and activity of the human heart
Authors: Pervolaraki Eleftheria , Anderson Richard A. , Benson Alan P. , Hayes-Gill Barrie , Holden Arun V. , Moore Benjamin J. R. , Paley Martyn N. , Zhang Henggui
Published: February 2013

We construct the components for a family of computational models of the electrophysiology of the human foetal heart from 60 days gestational age (DGA) to full term. This requires both cell excitation models that reconstruct the myocyte action potentials, and datasets of cardiac geometry and architecture. Fast low-angle shot and diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (DT-MRI) of foetal hearts provides cardiac geometry with voxel resolution of approximately 100 μm. DT-MRI measures the relative diffusion of protons and provides a measure of the average intravoxel myocyte orientation, and the orientation of any higher order orthotropic organization of the tissue. Such orthotropic organization in the adult mammalian heart has been identified with myocardial sheets and cleavage planes between them. During gestation, the architecture of the human ventricular wall changes from being irregular and isotropic at 100 DGA to an anisotropic and orthotropic architecture by 140 DGA, when it has the smooth, approximately 120° transmural change in myocyte orientation that is characteristic of the adult mammalian ventricle. The DT obtained from DT-MRI provides the conductivity tensor that determines the spread of potential within computational models of cardiac tissue electrophysiology. The foetal electrocardiogram (fECG) can be recorded from approximately 60 DGA, and RR, PR and QT intervals between the P, R, Q and T waves of the fECG can be extracted by averaging from approximately 90 DGA. The RR intervals provide a measure of the pacemaker rate, the QT intervals an index of ventricular action potential duration, and its rate-dependence, and so these intervals constrain and inform models of cell electrophysiology. The parameters of models of adult human sinostrial node and ventricular cells that are based on adult cell electrophysiology and tissue molecular mapping have been modified to construct preliminary models of foetal cell electrophysiology, which reproduce these intervals from fECG recordings. The PR and QR intervals provide an index of conduction times, and hence propagation velocities (approx. 1–10 cm s
−1
, increasing during gestation) and so inform models of tissue electrophysiology. Although the developing foetal heart is small and the cells are weakly coupled, it can support potentially lethal re-entrant arrhythmia.
A novel computational sheep atria model for the study of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Butters Timothy D. , Aslanidi Oleg V. , Zhao Jichao , Smaill Bruce , Zhang Henggui
Published: February 2013

Sheep are often used as animal models for experimental studies into the underlying mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias. Previous studies have shown that biophysically detailed computer models of the heart provide a powerful alternative to experimental animal models for underpinning such mechanisms. In this study, we have developed a family of mathematical models for the electrical action potentials of various sheep atrial cell types. The developed cell models were then incorporated into a three-dimensional anatomical model of the sheep atria, which was recently reconstructed and segmented based on anatomical features within different regions. This created a novel biophysically detailed computational model of the three-dimensional sheep atria. Using the model, we then investigated the mechanisms by which paroxysmal rapid focal activity in the pulmonary veins can transit to sustained atrial fibrillation. It was found that the anisotropic property of the atria arising from the fibre structure plays an important role in facilitating the development of fibrillatory atrial excitation waves, and the electrical heterogeneity plays an important role in its initiation.
The immune system as a biomonitor: explorations in innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Thomas Niclas , Heather James , Pollara Gabriel , Simpson Nandi , Matjeka Theres , Shawe-Taylor John , Noursadeghi Mahdad , Chain Benjamin
Published: February 2013

The human immune system has a highly complex, multi-layered structure which has evolved to detect and respond to changes in the internal microenvironment of the body. Recognition occurs at the molecular or submolecular scale, via classical reversible receptor–ligand interactions, and can lead to a response with great sensitivity and speed. Remarkably, recognition is coupled to memory, such that responses are modulated by events which occurred years or even decades before. Although the immune system in general responds differently and more vigorously to stimuli entering the body from the outside (e.g. infections), this is an emergent property of the system: many of the recognition molecules themselves have no inherent bias towards external stimuli (non-self) but also bind targets found within the body (self). It is quite clear that the immune response registers pathophysiological changes in general. Cancer, wounding and chronic tissue injury are some obvious examples. Against this background, the immune system ‘state’ tracks the internal processes of the body, and is likely to encode information regarding both current and past disease processes. Moreover, the distributed nature of most immune responses (e.g. typically involving lymphoid tissue, non-lymphoid tissue, bone marrow, blood, extracellular interstitial spaces, etc.) means that many of the changes associated with immune responses are manifested systemically, and specifically can be detected in blood. This provides a very convenient route to sampling immune cells. We consider two different and complementary ways of querying the human immune ‘state’ using high-dimensional genomic screening methodologies, and discuss the potentials of these approaches and some of the technological and computational challenges to be overcome.
Genetic divergence among members of the Kokobera group of flaviviruses supports their separation into distinct species
Authors: May Fiona J. , Clark David C. , Pham Kim , Diviney Sinéad M. , Williams David T. , Field Emma J. , Kuno Goro , Chang Gwong-Jen , Cheah Wai Yuen , Setoh Yin X. , Prow Natalie A. , Hobson-Peters Jody , Hall Roy A.
Published: February 2013

The Kokobera virus group comprises mosquito-borne flaviviruses that cluster together phylogenetically. These viruses are unique to Australia and Papua New Guinea, and have been associated with a mild polyarticular disease in humans. Recent isolation of genetically diverse viruses within this group has prompted analysis of their genetic and phenotypic relationships. Phylogenetic analysis based on complete ORF, the envelope gene or the NS5/3′ untranslated region supported the separation of the group into distinct species: Kokobera virus (KOKV), Stratford virus, New Mapoon virus, MK7979 and TS5273. Virulence studies in 3-week-old mice also provided the first evidence that a member of the KOKV group (MK7979) was neuroinvasive after intraperitoneal inoculation. In this context, our recent detection of KOKV group-specific antibodies in horses in the field suggests that these viruses should be considered in the epidemiology of flavivirus encephalitis in Australia.
Decision support model for energy‐efficient improvement of entire building stocks
Authors: Junghans Antje
Published: February 2013

Purpose

In recent years, steadily rising and ever‐changing energy prices have required the development of sustainable strategies to reduce the energy consumption of buildings. Measures to improve the energy efficiency of detached houses have already been implemented. This new procedure addresses the energy efficient modernization to entire building stocks of public authorities and therefore targets to meet a key niche issue.

Design/methodology/approach

As result of literature research the demand for a strategic approach for energy efficient improvement was pointed out. The model framework refers to four main requirements for a new procedure within a comprehensive view of facilities management (FM), lifecycle orientation, efficient working processes, setting of objectives and monitoring of results. In addition the literature research recorded five main methods and tools which were utilized for the model development.

Findings

The new constructed facility‐energy‐efficiency model (FEE‐model) supports the decision process. The starting point is the selection of the buildings with the highest energy saving potential. The next step is a deeper analysis of the as‐is‐state in comparison with a defined target state. After that improvement areas were identified and finally a recommendation for the implementation is given. The model was tested within practical cases of which a municipal kindergarten is documented as example in this article.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information on energy efficient improvement of entire building stocks.
Advancing the transformation of local services in Staffordshire
Authors: Ellis Matthew , Curry Kim , Watson Jenny
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the work between statutory sector partners in Staffordshire to establish a transformational rather than transactional health and well being board and its approach to resource allocation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the principles and process of achieving a shared ambition for Staffordshire, and the practical and strategic considerations of taking a broader and more ambitious approach than current guidance recommends.

Findings

Supporting individual organisations to achieve their statutory requirements within the context of the shared vision, and using customer insight intelligently to influence the decision‐making process, are critical to success. The challenge of moving resources in times of financial hardship and organisational flux should not be underestimated.

Practical implications

The process of moving resources into prevention and early intervention cannot be done in a “one size fits all” way and has to be considered as part of a differentiated approach. In addition, organisations must be willing to cede influence and resources to support the vision, thus challenging culture and traditional organisational boundaries and structures.

Social implications

The process described in the paper is designed to improve health and well being for citizens in Staffordshire, tackling inequality in an integrated, targeted and proportionate way.

Originality/value

This is an emerging example of “whole system” integration.
A Raman study of 8‐Hydroxyquinoline release from loaded TiO2 nanocontainer
Authors: Kordas G.C. , Balaskas A.C. , Kartsonakis I.A. , Efthimiadou E.K.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the release of corrosion inhibitor from nanocontainers and to show that it can be released due to reaction with the substrate induced by corrosion. This is called self‐healing of corrosion. Raman spectroscopy was used to show that reaction after scratching of the surface and corrosion of the substrate.

Design/methodology/approach

TiO2 nanocontainers loaded with 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐HQ) were placed onto a copper substrate and wetted with in 0.05 M NaCl solution. The Raman spectrum of the modified copper surface was attributed to the Cu(8‐Q)2 compound. The incorporation of loaded nanocontainers into epoxy coatings showed enhanced protection against corrosion. Artificial defects were formed on the coatings in order to evaluate the corrosion process and the possible self‐healing effect. The Raman spectra in the scratch tentatively assigned to Cu(8‐Q)2 compound. This result shows that the enhanced anti‐corrosive properties of the films with loaded nanocontainers can be attributed to the released inhibitor from the nanocontainer.

Findings

The authors found that the corrosion of copper substrate induces the release of hydroxyquinoline and formation of a chelate. This is the self‐healing phenomenon.

Practical implications

This can be employed for self‐healing in all structures, such as mechanical properties of bridges, etc.

Social implications

Damage occurs in all structures: the cost is immense – millions of dollars. Damage also occurs after an earthquake, accidents, etc. Self‐repairing is the key issue in modern science, therefore this article is of great importance.

Originality/value

The originality is that the authors showed, with Raman spectroscopy, that the chemicals in the nanocontainers in the coatings are released by the corrosion induced in the metal. This is the first spectroscopic proof of self‐healing.
Corporate governance, reporting quality, and firm value: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Siagian Ferdinand , Siregar Sylvia V. , Rahadian Yan
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether corporate governance practices and the quality of reporting are associated with firm value for public firms in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors hypothesize that there are positive associations between firm value and corporate governance practices and reporting quality. For the authors’ proxies for corporate governance and reporting quality they develop two new indices. First, they develop a corporate governance index (the CGI) to measure corporate governance practices by Indonesian firms. Second, they develop a reporting quality index (the RQI) to measure the firms’ quality of reporting and disclosures. To examine the associations the authors run multivariate regressions of their proxies for firm value on the two indices.

Findings

Consistent with the first hypothesis, the paper finds positive associations between corporate governance and different proxies of firm value. These findings suggest that firms that implement better corporate governance have higher values. Contrary to the second hypothesis, the paper finds negative associations between reporting quality and the proxies for firm value. These findings indicate that lower value firms tend to disclose more information that is consistent with the P3LKE than higher value firms.

Research limitations/implications

The results suggest that corporate governance practice by Indonesian public firms is value relevant and therefore, should provide incentives to the firms to improve their governance. This shows that the Indonesian government's efforts to promote corporate governance provide benefits to publicly traded firms. The results also indicate that firms with low values are more likely to disclose information that is consistent with the P3LKE. This warrants further research because this finding is inconsistent with the contention that more disclosures should result in higher value.

Practical implications

The authority needs to put more efforts in promoting good corporate governance implementations and making sure that public firms improve their disclosures and reporting quality in order to provide benefits to the users of financial information.

Originality/value

Corporate governance index for public firms is not readily available in Indonesia. Therefore, the authors develop an index to measure corporate governance implementations by Indonesian public firms. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that develops an index to measure adherence to the P3LKE, which is a comprehensive measure of the quality of reporting.
Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus in patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery is an important risk factor for postoperative surgical site infection: A prospective randomised study
Authors: Tai Yee J , Borchard Kate LA , Gunson Todd H , Smith Harvey R , Vinciullo Carl
Published: February 2013

Background

Surgical site infection (SSI) can be a problematic complication of Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). Previous reports have cited nasal Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) carriage as a risk factor for SSI, but none thus far in dermatologic surgery.

Objective

The aim was to determine the difference in infection rates between nasal carriers of S. aureus and non‐carriers, and whether decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine wash would reduce the infection rate in nasal carriers.

Methods

In all, 738 patients presenting for MMS at the Oxford Day Surgery and Dermatology underwent a nasal swab to determine their S. aureus carriage status. S. aureus carriers were randomised for decolonisation with intranasal mupirocin ointment and chlorhexidine body wash. Non‐carriers were untreated. All patients were followed up for SSI.

Results

The rate of SSI was 11 per cent in untreated S. aureus carriers, 4 per cent in treated carriers, and 3 per cent in non‐carriers. The difference in infection rate between carriers and non‐carriers was significant (P < 0.001). The difference between treated and untreated carriers was also significant (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Nasal S. aureus carriage is an important risk factor for SSI in MMS, conferring an over threefold increase in SSI risk. A pre‐operative nasal swab provides a simple and effective risk stratification tool. The use of a topical decolonisation regimen reduces the infection rate in carriers to a level approaching non‐carriers without exposure to systemic antibiotics.
Hypomelanosis of Ito and multiple naevoid hypertrichosis: Rare cutaneous mosaicism
Authors: Khurana Ananta , Singal Archana , Pandhi Deepika
Published: February 2013

Hypomelanosis of Ito and naevoid hypertrichosis are both uncommon disorders and their coexistence in the same patient is rarely described. Most previously reported patients, in addition to cutaneous lesions, had multiple neurological, musculoskeletal and other organ system involvements. We present the case of a 3‐year‐old girl with these two naevoid disorders at sites completely exclusive of each other and without any severe associated defects.
The use of prophylactic gastroprotective therapy in patients with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐ and aspirin‐associated ulcer bleeding: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ho C. W. , Tse Y. K. , Wu B. , Mulder C. J. J. , Chan F. K. L.
Published: February 2013

Background

Poor adherence to gastroprotective agents (GPAs) is common among users of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or low‐dose aspirin (ASA). There are little data on the utilization of GPAs among NSAID and ASA users complicated by ulcer bleeding.

Aim

To study the utilization of GPA among NSAID and ASA ulcers before the onset of ulcer bleeding.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study to determine the exposure to NSAIDs, ASA, and GPAs within 4 weeks before endoscopically confirmed ulcer bleeding. Sensitivity analysis was performed to study how improving adherence to GPA use would reduce the risk of ulcer bleeding in high‐risk users.

Results

Between 2000 and 2009, 1093 and 2277 patients had NSAID‐ and ASA‐associated ulcer bleeding respectively. The incidence of NSAID‐associated ulcer bleeding declined by 40%, whereas that of ASA‐associated ulcer bleeding increased by 46%. Thirty‐nine per cent of NSAID users and 75% of ASA users belonged to high ulcer risk category. Although GPA prescription rate has increased over time, only 41.6% and 30.6% of high‐risk NSAID and ASA users received GPAs before ulcer bleeding respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed that if GPAs could reduce bleeding risk by 50%, improving adherence would prevent up to 35% of ulcer bleeding in high‐risk users.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of high‐risk NSAID and ASA users had not received prophylaxis with gastroprotective agents before ulcer bleeding. These bleeding episodes may be preventable with better adherence to gastroprotective agent use.
Long‐term effects of melatonin on quality of life and sleep in haemodialysis patients (Melody study): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Russcher Marije , Koch Birgit C. P. , Nagtegaal J. Elsbeth , van Ittersum Frans J. , Pasker‐de Jong Pieternel C. M. , Hagen E. Chris , van Dorp Wim Th , Gabreëls Bas , Wildbergh Thierry X. , van der Westerlaken Monique M. L. , Gaillard Carlo A. J. M. , ter Wee Piet M.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The disturbed circadian rhythm in haemodialysis patients results in perturbed sleep. Short term melatonin supplementation has alleviated these sleep problems. Our aim was to investigate the effects of long‐term melatonin supplementation on quality of life and sleep.

Methods

In this randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial haemodialysis patients suffering from subjective sleep problems received melatonin 3 mg day−1 vs. placebo during 12 months. The primary endpoint quality of life parameter ‘vitality’ was measured with Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐36. Secondary outcomes were improvement of three sleep parameters measured by actigraphy and nighttime salivary melatonin concentrations.

Results

Sixty‐seven patients were randomized. Forty‐two patients completed the trial. With melatonin, no beneficial effect on vitality was seen. Other quality of life parameters showed both advantageous and disadvantageous effects of melatonin. Considering sleep, at 3 months sleep efficiency and actual sleep time had improved with melatonin compared with placebo on haemodialysis days (difference 7.6%, 95% CI 0.77, 14.4 and 49 min, 95% CI 2.1, 95.9, respectively). At 12 months none of the sleep parameters differed significantly from placebo. Melatonin salivary concentrations at 6 months had significantly increased in the melatonin group compared with the placebo group.

Conclusions

The high drop‐out rate limits the strength of our conclusions. However, although a previous study reported beneficial short term effects of melatonin on sleep in haemodialysis patients, in this long‐term study the positive effects disappeared during follow up (6–12 months). Also the quality of life parameter, vitality, did not improve. Efforts should be made to elucidate the mechanism responsible for the loss of effect with chronic use.
Comparative analysis between azacitidine and decitabine for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Lee Yun‐Gyoo , Kim Inho , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Park Seonyang , Cheong June Won , Min Yoo Hong , Lee Jeong‐Ok , Bang Soo‐Mee , Yi Hyeon Gyu , Kim Chul Soo , Park Yong , Kim Byung‐Soo , Mun Yeung‐Chul , Seong Chu‐Myoung , Park Jinny , Lee Jae Hoon , Kim Sung‐Yong , Lee Hong Ghi , Kim Yeo‐Kyeoung , Kim Hyeoung‐Joon
Published: February 2013

The present study aimed to directly compare the efficacy and safety of azacitidine and decitabine in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). We compared the overall response rate (ORR) (complete responses, partial responses, marrow complete responses, and haematological improvements), overall survival (OS), event‐free survival (EFS), time to leukaemic transformation, and adverse outcomes between azacitidine and decitabine. To minimize the effects of treatment selection bias in this observational study, adjustments were made using the propensity‐score matching method. Among 300 patients, 203 were treated with azacitidine and 97 with decitabine. Propensity‐score matching yielded 97 patient pairs. In the propensity‐matched cohort, there were no significant differences between the azacitidine and decitabine groups regarding ORR (44% vs. 52%), OS (26 vs. 22·9 months), EFS (7·7 vs. 7·0 months), and rate of leukaemic transformation (16% vs. 22% at 1 year). In patients ≥65 years of age, survival was significantly better in the azacitidine group (P = 0·017). Patients who received decitabine experienced more frequent episodes of grade 3 or 4 cytopenia and infectious episodes. We found that azacitidine and decitabine showed comparable efficacy. Among patients ≥65 years of age, survival was significantly better in the azacitidine group (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01409070).
Feasibility of the virtual needle tracking system for percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tomonari Akiko , Tsuji Kunihiko , Yamazaki Hajime , Aoki Hironori , Kang Jong‐Hon , Kodama Yoshihisa , Sakurai Yasuo , Maguchi Hiroyuki
Published: February 2013

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility of the real‐time virtual needle tracking system for percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

An electromagnetic field created by an ultrasound (US) machine detected the tracking bracket mounted onto the RFA needle. When the needle tip was confirmed to be in the accurate plane extracorporeally, the needle was inserted into the liver using the virtual navigation US system, and RFA was performed. Eight patients with eight liver lesions underwent percutaneous RFA under ultrasound for HCC from October to November 2012 using the real‐time electromagnetic virtual needle tracking system (VirtuTRAX).

Results

The average size of the tumors was 11.5 mm with one lesion in S4, two in S5, two in S7 and three in S8. Sufficient margins were obtained in a single session in all cases. Using only B‐mode, the needle tip was obscured due to the condition of the surrounding liver or subcutaneous fat tissue, but it was identifiable with the use of the virtual needle tracking device in all cases. In one case where the lesion was large, the needle was placed twice deliberately, but the second puncture was made difficult by the ablation artifact of the first puncture. With the tracking device, however, it was possible to perform the second puncture accurately.

Conclusion

The virtual tracking system is useful in cases where the needle tip is obscured due to surrounding liver conditions or when multiple punctures are necessary due to the ablation artifact's obscuring the needle tip. Freehand puncturing may be possible in the future using this technique with further improvements in the system.
Study of Screen‐Printed PZT Cantilevers Both Self‐Actuated and Self‐Read‐Out
Authors: Lakhmi Riadh , Debeda Hélène , Dufour Isabelle , Lucat Claude , Maglione Mario
Published: February 2013

Usually, resonating cantilevers come from silicon technology and are activated with pure bending mode. In this work, we suggest to combine high‐sensitive cantilever structure with both self‐actuated and self‐read‐out piezoelectric thick‐film for high electrical–mechanical coupling. This cantilever is realized through screen‐printing deposition associated with a sacrificial layer. It is composed of a PZT layer between two gold electrodes. Optimum performances of piezoelectric ceramics generally imply the use of mechanical pressure and very high sintering temperature that are not compatible with the screen‐printing process. Addition of eutectic composition Li2CO3‐Bi2O3‐CuO or borosilicate glass‐frit to PZT powder and application of isostatic pressure improve the sintering at a given temperature. Firing temperature of 850°C, 900°C, and 950°C is tested. Microstructural, electrical and mechanical characterizations are achieved. In addition to the bending mode, the in‐plane 31‐longitudinal vibration mode and the out‐of‐plane 33‐thickness resonance mode are revealed. Correlations between experimental results and modeling of the different vibration modes are established. The piezoelectric parameters of PZT cantilevers approach those of ceramics. Quality factors between 300 and 400 associated with the unusual 31‐longitudinal mode make screen‐printed PZT cantilevers good candidates for detection in liquid and gaseous media.
A controlled trial of a needs‐based, nurse‐led psychoeducation programme for Chinese patients with first‐onset mental disorders: 6 month follow up
Authors: Chien Wai‐Tong , Leung Sau‐Fong
Published: February 2013

The study reported herein a randomized controlled trial was conducted to test the effectiveness of a nurse‐led, needs‐based psycho‐education program for Chinese patients with first‐onset mental illness over a 6‐month follow‐up. Ninety‐six families of Chinese patients with schizophrenia newly referred to one outpatient clinic in Hong Kong were randomly assigned to a nurse‐led psycho‐education program or usual outpatient care, each comprising 48 subjects. The patients’ mental health, illness insight, self‐efficacy, services utilization, and hospitalization rates were measured at recruitment and at one week and six months post‐intervention. The patients in the psycho‐education program reported significantly greater improvements in mental health, insights into treatment and illness, and hospitalization rates over the 6‐month follow‐up, when compared with those who received usual care. The findings provide evidence that the needs‐based, nurse‐led psycho‐education program can improve the health conditions and treatment insights of Chinese out‐patients with first‐onset mental illness.