bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical and nutritional quality of retails cakes of Dhaka city
Authors: Begum F , Sarker AK , Ahmed S , Mondal K , Anjum S
Published: March 2016

The nutrient content and other quality parameters of retails cake samples collected from different markets of Dhaka city was evaluated. Irrespective of the brand or types of cake analyzed, none of the 13 retails cakes samples were found comply with BSTI standard weight and on an average, 5-10g less-weight was observed compared to the labeled weight. The moisture content was found within the BSTI acceptable level. The protein content (crude) ranging from 4.3% to 6.5% was observed, indicating that the cakes were prepared using flour containing low protein that gives softness to the cakes. On the other hand, negligible amount of fiber contents (0.007 - 0.244 %) was observed indicated that no effect on protein digestibility by pepsin and also absorption of fats. However, acid values (AV) of five cake samples were within the acceptable range (0.69 - 1.00 mg KOH/100g) of BSTI standard and the remaining eight samples were found higher (1.07-4.75 mg KOH/100g) than the acceptable limit. The peroxide values were found higher (20.27-49.4 mEq/kg) in all thirteen cake samples analyzed, indicated that all fats were in rancid condition. The iodine values (62.18-120.22) of extracted fats were low which indicates saturated nature of fats. The acid insoluble ashes of eight cake samples were higher than the permissible limit (0.1%) compared to BSTI standard. Metal content (sodium, calcium) and trace metal (iron) contents was found in the range of 24.43 - 149.15 mg/100g; 32.59 - 69.70 mg/100g and 0.96 - 8.18 mg/100g, respectively, which is higher than the BSTI standard. Therefore, the retails cake samples analyzed was of both good and poor quality.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 51(1), 35-40, 2016
Factorial (25) design for the extraction of V(IV) in the V(IV)-[SO42-](H+, Na+) ? Cyanex 302-kerosene system
Authors: Biswas RK , Karmakar AK
Published: March 2016

The title system has been investigated from the modeling points of view. Equilibration time is 20 min and the significant extraction occurs above pH 2. Considering the constancy of the organic to aqueous phase ratio (1:1), the factors affecting the extent of extraction (value of log D or log CD) are [V(IV)], pH(eq), [Cyanex 302], [SO42-] and temperature (T). The levels of these factors chosen in experimentation are high (+) and low (-). Regression or model equation for the extraction of vanadium (IV) by Cyanex 302 is determined from 25 full factorial design. On abbreviating log[V(IV)], -log(1+4641.14x10-pH + (1.5x106)x10-2pH), log[Cyanex 302], -log(1+2.24 [SO42-]) and absolute temperatures as M, P, E, S and T, respectively, the model obtained is: log CD = 10.452-0.16M+1.0047P+2.0011E+1.0003S-2425.3729/T. From the regression model it is seen that there is no interaction effect between the factors under investigation. The model can describe the system well.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 51(1), 47-54, 2016
Automatic classification of music based on the correlation between mood, linguistic and audio features
Authors: Rakib NA , Sobhan Md MB , Farhan SMZ , Zaber MI
Published: March 2016

The emergence of the music in recent times has been enviable. Some people consider music to be an integral part of their regular lives, while others sometimes even consider music to be some divine inspiration setting the mood for them for the rest of the day. For such people, a well-trimmed precise playlist of the songs that they would love to listen to, based on genre or mood of the songs, is priceless. Genre of an individual song is very much available, as that information is mostly provided within the song, but getting to judge the mood of the song is much more of a challenge. If it is a challenge itself for one distinct song, then one can easily imagine the hassle that a person faces when selecting a playlist of songs from a huge library of music. This ultimately gives rise to the importance of the classification of music based on the mood of the individual songs.This paper establishes such a method, which ultimately works with a combination of features, such as the linguistic and audio features of a song to classify a song according to the mood the song represents or is appropriate for. These features are then used in conjunction with several metrics to find out their relevance or relationships and measured for validation purposes.Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 51(1), 55-60, 2016
NOVA LIGHT CURVES FROM THE SOLAR MASS EJECTION IMAGER (SMEI). II. THE EXTENDED CATALOG
Authors: Hounsell R. , Darnley M. J. , Bode M. F. , Harman D. J. , Surina F. , Starrfield S. , Holdsworth D. L. , Bewsher D. , Hick P. P. , Jackson B. V. , Buffington A. , Clover J. M. , Shafter A. W.
Published: March 2016

We present the results from observing nine Galactic novae in eruption with the Solar Mass Ejection Imager (SMEI) between 2004 and 2009. While many of these novae reached peak magnitudes that were either at or approaching the detection limits of SMEI, we were still able to produce light curves that in many cases contained more data at and around the initial rise, peak, and decline than those found in other variable star catalogs. For each nova, we obtained a peak time, maximum magnitude, and for several an estimate of the decline time (

). Interestingly, although of lower quality than those found in Hounsell et al., two of the light curves may indicate the presence of a pre-maximum halt. In addition, the high cadence of the SMEI instrument has allowed the detection of low-amplitude variations in at least one of the nova light curves.
APPLICATION OF GAS DYNAMICAL FRICTION FOR PLANETESIMALS. II. EVOLUTION OF BINARY PLANETESIMALS
Authors: Grishin Evgeni , Perets Hagai B.
Published: March 2016

One of the first stages of planet formation is the growth of small planetesimals and their accumulation into large planetesimals and planetary embryos. This early stage occurs long before the dispersal of most of the gas from the protoplanetary disk. At this stage gas–planetesimal interactions play a key role in the dynamical evolution of single intermediate-mass planetesimals (m

p
 ∼ 1021–1025 g) through gas dynamical friction (GDF). A significant fraction of all solar system planetesimals (asteroids and Kuiper-belt objects) are known to be binary planetesimals (BPs). Here, we explore the effects of GDF on the evolution of BPs embedded in a gaseous disk using an N-body code with a fiducial external force accounting for GDF. We find that GDF can induce binary mergers on timescales shorter than the disk lifetime for masses above m

p
 ≳ 1022 g at 1 au, independent of the binary initial separation and eccentricity. Such mergers can affect the structure of merger-formed planetesimals, and the GDF-induced binary inspiral can play a role in the evolution of the planetesimal disk. In addition, binaries on eccentric orbits around the star may evolve in the supersonic regime, where the torque reverses and the binary expands, which would enhance the cross section for planetesimal encounters with the binary. Highly inclined binaries with small mass ratios, evolve due to the combined effects of Kozai–Lidov (KL) cycles with GDF which lead to chaotic evolution. Prograde binaries go through semi-regular KL evolution, while retrograde binaries frequently flip their inclination and ∼50% of them are destroyed.
THE MIRA–TITAN UNIVERSE: PRECISION PREDICTIONS FOR DARK ENERGY SURVEYS
Authors: Heitmann Katrin , Bingham Derek , Lawrence Earl , Bergner Steven , Habib Salman , Higdon David , Pope Adrian , Biswas Rahul , Finkel Hal , Frontiere Nicholas , Bhattacharya Suman
Published: March 2016

Large-scale simulations of cosmic structure formation play an important role in interpreting cosmological observations at high precision. The simulations must cover a parameter range beyond the standard six cosmological parameters and need to be run at high mass and force resolution. A key simulation-based task is the generation of accurate theoretical predictions for observables using a finite number of simulation runs, via the method of emulation. Using a new sampling technique, we explore an eight-dimensional parameter space including massive neutrinos and a variable equation of state of dark energy. We construct trial emulators using two surrogate models (the linear power spectrum and an approximate halo mass function). The new sampling method allows us to build precision emulators from just 26 cosmological models and to systematically increase the emulator accuracy by adding new sets of simulations in a prescribed way. Emulator fidelity can now be continuously improved as new observational data sets become available and higher accuracy is required. Finally, using one ΛCDM cosmology as an example, we study the demands imposed on a simulation campaign to achieve the required statistics and accuracy when building emulators for investigations of dark energy.
Le contexte, toujours largement inconnu, réclame une science pluraliste
Authors: Bouleau Nicolas
Published: March 2016

Les grands traits de la réflexion épistémologique du xx e  siècle doivent être complétés et amendés à cause de la présence d’un contexte toujours largement inconnu. Ceci vaut en premier lieu pour la biologie de synthèse et les artefacts chimiques introduits dans la nature, mais apparaît aujourd’hui comme une configuration générale de la connaissance qui appelle des outils et des constructions non classiques. Notre ignorance du rôle du contexte dans le passé, de sa réactivité aujourd’hui, et de sa résilience demain, récuse le principe des essais-erreurs tous azimuts, comme insuffisant, dangereux, inadapté. La complexité a plusieurs lectures. Les mathématiques montrent bien le fonctionnement de la connaissance pluraliste et sa fécondité. Il convient de s’appuyer sur des interprétations exigeantes, donc peu nombreuses, cadres indispensables de protocoles expérimentaux pour sonder les éventuels et travailler scientifiquement les craintes.
Assessment of Diurnal Wind Turbine Collision Risk for Grassland Birds on the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Wulff Sarah J. , Butler Matthew J. , Ballard Warren B.
Published: March 2016

Wind energy is one of the fastest growing renewable energy sources in the United States and has the potential to reduce the use of traditional nonrenewable energy. However, there is concern for potential short- and long-term influences on wildlife populations, such as bird collisions with turbine blades, habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, and habitat avoidance. Bird flight heights are indicative of collision risks, but knowledge of their distributions is limited. Our goal was to examine the diurnal flight heights of bird species to assess which are at greatest risk of collision with wind turbine blades. During October 2008–August 2009, we estimated the flight heights of 66 bird species at a planned wind energy facility on the southern Great Plains. Flight heights were estimated by measuring angle of incline with a clinometer and ground distance with a laser rangefinder. Previous work has been limited to flight height measurements categorized to site-specific rotor swept zone (RSZ) specifications that has resulted in limited applicability to other wind turbine RSZ specifications. Our research is distinctive because it provides more resolution in flight height estimates than those categorized into bins and allows application to wind turbines with different RSZs. We found that the flight heights of six bird species varied among seasons, indicating their risk of collision changed throughout the year. Observations indicated that the average flight heights of 28 bird species were within the potential RSZ (32–124 m above ground level) at our study site and that two species exhibited mean flight heights above the RSZ. Fifteen of those species were wetland-associated species, 7 were raptor or vulture species, and 6 were listed as species of greatest conservation need by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. We observed 14 bird species (1 vulture, 2 raptors, 7 wetland-associated species, and 4 passerines or other species) with greater than 25% of their observed flight heights within the RSZ. Our results indicate that raptors and wetland-associated species are the avian groups at greatest risk of collision with wind turbines due to their diurnal flight heights. However, the resolution of our data will allow assessment of which bird species are at greatest risk of collision for various wind turbine specifications. This information can help guide site assessment and placement for wind energy facilities across the southern Great Plains and help mitigate potential collision impacts on bird species.
Elevated Response to Type I IFN Enhances RANKL-Mediated Osteoclastogenesis in Usp18-Knockout Mice
Authors: Yim Hwa Young , Park Cheolkyu , Lee Yong Deok , Arimoto Kei-ichiro , Jeon Raok , Baek Sung Hee , Zhang Dong-Er , Kim Hong-Hee , Kim Keun Il
Published: March 2016

A balance between bone formation and bone resorption is critical for the maintenance of bone mass. In many pathological conditions, including chronic inflammation, uncontrolled activation of osteoclast differentiation often causes excessive bone resorption that results in osteoporosis. In this study, we identified the osteopenia phenotype of mice lacking Usp18 (also called Ubp43), which is a deISGylating enzyme and is known as a negative regulator of type I IFN signaling. The expression of Usp18 was induced in preosteoclasts upon receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) treatment. In an in vitro osteoclast-differentiation assay, bone marrow macrophages from Usp18-deficient mice exhibited an enhanced differentiation to multinucleated cells, elevated activation of NFATc1, and an increased expression of osteoclast marker genes upon RANKL treatment. Furthermore, in vitro quantification of bone resorption revealed a great increase in osteoclastic activities in Usp18-deficient cells. Interestingly, proinflammatory cytokine genes, such as IP-10 (CXCL10), were highly expressed in Usp18-deficient bone marrow macrophages upon RANKL treatment compared with wild-type cells. In addition, serum cytokine levels, especially IP-10, were significantly high in Usp18-knockout mice. In sum, we suggest that, although type I IFN is known to restrict osteoclast differentiation, the exaggerated activation of the type I IFN response in Usp18-knockout mice causes an osteopenia phenotype in mice.
Severe Ophthalmological Complications of Thyroid Disease are Rare in Ibadan, Southwestern Nigeria: Results of a Pilot Study
Authors: Ogun Olufunmilola A. , Adeleye Jokotade O.
Published: March 2016

Background

Ocular manifestations of thyroid dysfunction constitute a wide clinical spectrum ranging from minor ocular discomfort, lid retraction, lid lag and ocular injection, to sight threatening eyeball protusion and optic nerve compression. Thyroid-related eye disorders are most commonly associated with Graves' disease, and this most frequently occurs in the setting of hyperthyroidism. However, in 10% of cases, typical eye signs have also been reported in euthyroid and hypothyroid states. The severity of thyroid eye disease has been linked to cigarette smoking. There is very little data specifically reporting the ocular manifestations of thyroid disease among black African patients and there is no known report from Nigeria. This pilot study therefore focused on documenting the ocular signs accompanying thyroid dysfunction in a black African population.

Aim

To evaluate the pattern of ocular complications, among patients treated for thyroid disorders, in a major Nigerian teaching hospital.

Results

A total of 75 patients with thyroid dysfunction, were evaluated, comprising 63 females and 12 males. There was a very low prevalence of smoking among patients (<5%). Graves' disease was the commonest thyroid disorder, representing 70% of cases. Seventy-eight percent of patients were hyperthyroid, 11.8% were euthyroid and only 9.8% of patients were hypothyroid. Commonest systemic symptoms were neck swelling (68.6%), weight loss (63.8%), tremors (60.9%) and palpitations (59.4%). Two-thirds of patients reported ocular symptoms consisting mainly of painless eye swelling (66.7%) and ocular irritation (58%). Conjunctival injection, lid lag and lid retraction were the commonest ocular signs. Chemosis, severe proptosis and ocular motility disorder were very rare. Optic neuropathy was found in 4 patients but was related to pre-existing glaucoma. Majority of patients required only ocular emollients and tear supplements.

Conclusion

Severe ocular complications of thyroid disorders were uncommon in this cross-section of Nigerian patients. This may be linked to the very low prevalence of cigarette smoking among Nigerians or genetic and environmental factors linked to their African heritage.
A cluster algebra approach to $q$-characters of Kirillov–Reshetikhin modules
Authors: Hernandez David , Leclerc Bernard
Published: March 2016

We describe a cluster algebra algorithm for calculating

q

-characters of Kirillov–Reshetikhin modules for any untwisted quantum affine algebra

U_q(\widehat{\mathfrak{g}})

. This yields a geometric

q

-character formula for tensor products of Kirillov–Reshetikhin modules. When

\mathfrak g

is of type

A, D, E

, this formula extends Nakajima's formula for

q

-characters of standard modules in terms of homology of graded quiver varieties.
Proceso de Desarrollo en la toma de Decisiones del Cirujano en Formacion y Su Desempeño en Los Servicios de Urgencias
Authors: Algieri Rubén D , Ferrante Maria S , Fernandez Juan P , Flores Cristian A , Ahualli Nicolas , Paglilla Paulo R
Published: March 2016

Introducción

La formación de cirujanos se considera uno de los factores más importantes por organismos encargados de la evaluación de programas. Sugieren que deben tener herramientas para desempeñarse de manera efectiva en los servicios de urgencias. El proceso de desarrollo de la toma de decisiones consiste en evaluar las situaciones, determinar las alternativas para su resolución y seleccionar una opción más recomendable, para lo cual se requiere el análisis de las posibles consecuencias, así como la anticipación y evaluación de los resultados. El objetivo primordial de los programas de residencia para la capacitación y desarrollo de tomas de decisiones consiste en la formación y aplicación de los conocimientos teóricos y en la adquisición de habilidades clínicas y destrezas quirúrgicas.

Objetivo

Analizar el programa de formación de la Residencia de Cirugía General, evaluando las herramientas para desarrollar el proceso de toma de decisiones durante las Urgencias Quirúrgicas.

Material y métodos

se analiza el Programa de Residencia de Cirugía General del Hospital Aeronáutico Central, discriminándose la actividad desarrollada por cada residente durante un periodo comprendido entre el mes de Abril del año 2013 y mes de Junio del mismo año.

Resultados

se procedió al análisis de la distribución y carga horaria de las diferentes actividades, categorizado y discriminado en Actividad Asistencial; Actividad Psicomotriz, Actividad Cognitiva y Actividades Afectiva, diferenciadas por año de residencia. Se vio que todos cumplen con los estándares mínimos para la toma de decisiones.

Conclusión

el Programa de educación impartida de la Residencia de Cirugía General del Hospital Aeronáutico Central es un programa integral que abarca los principales aspectos establecidos como estándares solicitados para el correcto desempeño en los servicios de urgencias, de los cirujanos en formación.

How to cite this article

Algieri RD, Ferrante MS, Fernandez JP, Flores CA, Ahualli N, Paglilla PR. Proceso de Desarrollo en la toma de Decisiones del Cirujano en Formacion y Su Desempeño en Los Servicios de Urgencias. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(3):136-146.
Financial Implications of Early Tracheostomy in the Healthcare Cost Containment Era
Authors: Branco Bernardino , Vitis Joseph De , Tang Andy
Published: March 2016

Background

Tracheostomy is often performed for critically ill patients who are anticipated to have a prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay, in order to prevent the complications of endotracheal intubation. The timing of a tracheostomy has been much studied over the past 40 years with many analyses differing in methodology, patient population and outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate if early tracheostomy (≤7 days) in critically ill trauma patients increase ventilator and ICU-free days, reduce hospital days and decrease hospital costs.

Materials and methods

Trauma patients admitted to a level 1 Trauma Center requiring tracheostomy (2006.2013) were retrospectively identified. Patients receiving early tracheostomy (≤7 days) were compared to late tracheostomy (>7 days) for demographics, clinical data and outcomes. Dichotomous variables were compared by Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, where appropriate, and continuous variables were compared using Student's t or Mann-Whitney U tests.

Results

Five hundred and twenty-nine patients required a tracheostomy during the study period [292 (55.2%) early and 237 (44.8%) late]. Patients requiring early tracheostomy were more often male (80.5vs70.5%, p = 0.007) and younger (41.5 ± 18.6 yearsvs50.5 ± 21.2 years, p < 0.001). There were no differences in injury severity scores (ISS 28.4 ± 12.5vs27.2 ± 11.1, p = 0.161) but early tracheostomy patients were more likely to sustain severe traumatic brain injury (81.2vs65.0%, p < 0.001). There were no differences in transfusion requirements or need for intracavitary procedures. When outcomes were analyzed, while there was no difference in mortality (8.9vs5.1%, adjusted p = 0.126), early tracheostomy patients had significantly shorter ventilator days (8.7 ± 7.2 daysvs19.0 ± 10.4 days, adjusted p < 0.001), hospital days (22.3 ± 17.9 daysvs30.0 ± 18.4 days, adjusted p < 0.001) and ICU days (11.6 ± 8.4 daysvs22.8 ± 11.6 days, adjusted p < 0.001). In addition, ventilator-associated pneumonia rates were lower among early tracheostomy patients (8.6vs17.7%, adjusted p = 0.002). Hospital costs were unsurprisingly less in early tracheostomy patients ($ 55,371 ± 36,280 vs $ 93,702 ± 51,427, adjusted p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In critically, ill trauma patients, early tracheostomy was associated with shorter duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital days, and lower ventilation associated pneumonia rates. In addition, total hospital costs were significantly decreased in the early tracheostomy group. In this cohort alone, early tracheostomy would have resulted in a potential hospital cost saving of 2.5 million/year.

How to cite this article

Branco B, De Vitis J, Joseph B, Kulvatunyou N, Tang A, Friese RS, Rhee P, O'Keeffe T. Financial Implications of Early Tracheostomy in the Healthcare Cost Containment Era. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2015;4(3):194-201.
Value of Financial Flexibility and Firm’s Financial Policies: Empirical Evidence from the Firms Listed in Tehran Stock Exchange
Authors: Rahimi Kazem , Mosavi Alireza
Published: March 2016

The main objective of this paper is to investigate the relationship between financial flexibility and financial policies of the firms listed on Tehran stock exchange. The population of this descriptive-correlational study is comprised of all firms listed on Tehran stock exchange during the years 2010 to 2014. From this population, a sample of 155 firms is created through systematic elimination. The research hypotheses are investigated via multivariate regression, integrated data model and estimated generalized least squares (EGLS) methods. This research uses panel data technique as its statistical method, and utilizes Eviews9 and Excel softwares for data analysis. Results of investigations show that value of financial flexibility has significant inverse relationship with firm’s dividend payouts, its financial leverage, and the change in its cash balance. The results also suggest that firms putting more value to their financial flexibility have lower dividend payouts, prefer stock redemption to paying dividends, have lower leverage ratios, and tend to accumulate more cash.
Internet Motives of Users in Jordan, UAE and KSA: A Cross-Cultural Validation of the Web Motivation Inventory (WMI)
Authors: Khraim Hamza Salim
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study is to replicate the Web Motivation Inventory (WMI) in new context. To date, the scale has only been tested on consumers in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia and South Korea. This research replicates the WMI using consumers from three Arab countries namely Jordan, UAE, and KSA. Results show that the same four-factor structure has been produced for the three countries, providing evidence of the scales cross cultural stability. Additional results show that there were differences in the four motives; research, communicate, surf, and shop in the three countries.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Journal of Marketing Studies, Vol. 8, No. 2
Authors: Xiao Maple
Published: March 2016

Reviewer acknowledgements for International Journal of Marketing Studies, Vol. 8, No. 2, 2016.
Theorising the Concept of Product Branding: A Qualitative Approach to the History of Branding; the Case of the Nigerian Milk Industry
Authors: Okafor Aloy , George Olusoji
Published: March 2016

Product Branding is the process of inculcating unique values to a product in order to differentiate it from competing products. Components that differentiate products include: Name, Logo, Intellect, Culture and Values. This paper examines some western theorised Product Branding components and presents the understanding of these components from a Nigerian perspective. Social theory was used for the review of literature on Product Branding components, and in exploring the components’ systemic relationships that promised values to stakeholders. Content Analysis was employed in examining the theories of Branding and the extent to which it could be applied in the Nigerian Milk industry. This study reveals that a brand’s success largely depends on the extent of artistic selection of Product Branding components and the extent to which those components’ interaction produces values for stakeholders. The study concludes that Brand Name, Brand Logo, Brand Intellect, and Brand Culture are components that exude values to milk brands in Nigeria.
Effect of a Mandatory Third-Year Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment Course on Student Attitudes
Authors: Heineman Katherine L. , Lewis Drew D. , Finnerty Edward P. , Crout Shannon V. , Canby Craig
Published: March 2016

Context: Despite interest by osteopathic medical students in learning and incorporating osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) techniques into their future practices, most students indicate that OMT is rarely or never taught during many clinical rotations.

Objective: To determine whether a mandatory OMT course taken during the third year of medical school would influence students’ exposure to OMT, confidence in OMT, intent to continue developing OMT skills, and plan to provide OMT as practicing physicians.

Methods: A mandatory pilot OMT course was implemented in the 2014 third-year curriculum. A survey was then developed to assess students’ attitudes toward OMT. Surveys were administered to students whose third year was in 2013 and thus had not taken the course (group 1) and to students who had taken the course in 2014 (group 2).

Results: Of the 223 students in group 1, 143 (64%) responded. Of the 213 students in group 2, 112 (53%) responded. Students in group 2 reported greater exposure to OMT compared with students in group 1, higher confidence levels in practicing OMT (61 [54%] vs 71 [50%]), greater intent to continue developing OMT skills, and plan to provide OMT as practicing physicians (91 [81%] vs 94 [66%]).

Conclusion: A pilot course in OMT increased students’ levels of confidence in and intent to provide OMT in their future practices.
Are patients who call a primary care office referred to the emergency department by non-healthcare personnel without the input of a physician?
Authors: Hill Russell , Gest Albert , Smith Cynthia , Guardiola Jose H. , Apolinario Michael , Ha Joann , Gonzalez Jose R. , Richman Peter B.
Published: March 2016

Objective.We hypothesized that a significant percentage of patients who are referred to the Emergency Department (ED) after calling their primary care physician’s (PCP) office receive such instructions without the input of a physician.

Methods.We enrolled a convenience sample of stable adults at an inner-city ED. Patients provided written answers to structured questions regarding PCP contact prior to the ED visit. Continuous data are presented as means ± standard deviation; categorical data as frequency of occurrence. 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results.The study group of 660 patients had a mean age of 41.7 ± 14.7 years and 72.6% had income below $20,000/year. 472 patients (71.51%; 67.9%–74.8%) indicated that they had a PCP. A total of 155 patients (23.0%; 19.9%–26.4%) called to contact their PCP prior to ED visit. For patients who called their PCP office and were directed by phone to the ED, the referral pattern was observed as follows: 31/98 (31.63%; 23.2%–41.4%) by a non-health care provider without physician input, 11/98 (11.2%; 6.2%–19.1%) by a non-healthcare provider after consultation with a physician, 12/98 (12.3%; 7.7%–20.3%) by a nurse without physician input, and 14/98 (14.3%; 8.6%–22.7%) by a nurse after consultation with physician. An additional 11/98, 11.2%; 6.2–19.1%) only listened to a recorded message and felt the message was directing them to the ED.

Conclusion.A relatively small percentage of patients were referred to the ED without the consultation of a physician in our overall population. However, over half of those that contacted their PCP’s office felt directed to the ED by non-health care staff.
Sonographic Analysis of Changes in Skull Shape After Cranial Molding Helmet Therapy in Infants With Deformational Plagiocephaly
Authors: Kwon Dong Rak
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in skull shape on sonography after cranial molding helmet therapy in infants with deformational plagiocephaly.

Methods

Twenty‐six infants who were treated with cranial molding helmet therapy were recruited. Caliper and sonographic measurements were performed. The lateral length of the affected and unaffected sides of the skull and cranial vault asymmetry index were measured with calipers. The occipital angle, defined as the angle between lines projected along the lambdoid sutures of the skull, was calculated by sonography. The occipital angle difference and occipital angle ratio were also measured. All caliper and sonographic measurements were performed in each infant twice before and twice after treatment.

Results

The study group included 12 male and 14 female infants with a mean age ± SD of 6.2 ± 3.5 months. The mean treatment duration was 6.0 ± 2.5 months. The difference in lateral length before and after helmet therapy was significantly greater on the affected skull than the unaffected skull (16.7 ± 12.7 versus 9.0 ± 13.4 mm; P < .01). The difference in the occipital angle before and after helmet therapy was significantly greater on the affected skull than the unaffected skull (−5.7° ± 7.3° versus 4.2° ± 7.9°; P < .01). The cranial vault asymmetry index and occipital angle ratio were significantly reduced after helmet therapy (cranial vault asymmetry index, 9.3% ± 2.3% versus 3.5% ± 3.0%; occipital angle ratio, 1.07 ± 0.05 versus 1.01 ± 0.01; P < .05).

Conclusions

These results suggest that occipital angle measurements using sonography, combined with cephalometry, could provide a better understanding of the therapeutic effects of cranial molding helmet therapy in infants with deformational plagiocephaly.
AGILE as a particle detector: Magnetospheric measurements of 10–100 MeV electrons in L shells less than 1.2
Authors: Argan A. , Piano G. , Tavani M. , Trois A.
Published: March 2016

We study the capability of the AGILE gamma ray space mission in detecting magnetospheric particles (mostly electrons) in the energy range 10–100 MeV. Our measurements focus on the inner magnetic shells with
in the magnetic equator. The instrument characteristics and a quasi‐equatorial orbit of ∼500 km altitude make it possible to address several important properties of the particle populations in the inner magnetosphere. We review the on board trigger logic and study the acceptance of the AGILE instrument for particle detection. We find that the AGILE effective geometric factor (acceptance) is R≃50 cm2 sr for particle energies in the range 10–100 MeV. Particle event reconstruction allows to determine the particle pitch angle with the local magnetic field with good accuracy. We obtain the pitch angle distributions for both the AGILE “pointing” phase (July 2007 to October 2009) and the “spinning” phase (November 2009 to present). In spinning mode, the whole range (0–180 degrees) is accessible every 7 min. We find a pitch angle distribution of the “dumbbell” type with a prominent depression near α = 90° which is typical of wave‐particle resonant scattering and precipitation in the inner magnetosphere. Most importantly, we show that AGILE is not affected by solar particle precipitation events in the magnetosphere. The satellite trajectory intersects magnetic shells in a quite narrow range (
); AGILE then has a high exposure to a magnetospheric region potentially rich of interesting phenomena. The large particle acceptance in the 10–100 MeV range, the pitch angle determination capability, the L shell exposure, and the solar‐free background make AGILE a unique instrument for measuring steady and transient particle events in the inner magnetosphere.
The relationships between large‐scale variations in shear velocity, density, and compressional velocity in the Earth's mantle
Authors: Moulik P. , Ekström G.
Published: March 2016

A large data set of surface wave phase anomalies, body wave travel times, normal‐mode splitting functions, and long‐period waveforms is used to investigate the scaling between shear velocity, density, and compressional velocity in the Earth's mantle. We introduce a methodology that allows construction of joint models with various levels of scaling complexity (ϱ = d
/d
, ν = d
/d
), in order to detect seismological signatures of chemical heterogeneity. We demonstrate that the data sets considered cannot be fit concurrently with a uniform ν or a positive and uniform ϱ throughout the mantle. The variance reductions to P wave travel times and vP‐sensitive modes are up to 40% higher with our preferred model of anisotropic shear and compressional velocity than the recent anisotropic shear velocity model S362ANI+M, which was constructed assuming a uniform ν throughout the mantle. Several features reported in earlier tomographic studies persist after the inclusion of new and larger data sets; anticorrelation between bulk sound and shear velocities in the lowermost mantle as well as an increase in ν with depth in the lower mantle are largely independent of the regularization scheme. When correlations between density and shear velocity variations are imposed in the lowermost mantle, variance reductions of several spheroidal and toroidal modes deteriorate by as much as 40%. Recent measurements of the splitting of 0S2, in particular, are largely incompatible with perfectly correlated shear velocity and density heterogeneity throughout the mantle. A way to significantly improve the fits to various data sets is by allowing independent density perturbations in the lowermost mantle. Our preferred joint model consists of denser‐than‐average anomalies (∼1% peak to peak) at the base of the mantle roughly coincident with the low‐velocity superplumes. The relative variation of shear velocity, density, and compressional velocity in our study disfavors a purely thermal contribution to heterogeneity in the lowermost mantle, with implications for the long‐term stability and evolution of superplumes.
Temperature effects on nitrogen cycling and nitrate removal‐production efficiency in bed form‐induced hyporheic zones
Authors: Zheng Lizhi , Cardenas M. Bayani , Wang Lichun
Published: March 2016

Hyporheic flow in aquatic sediment controls solute and heat transport thereby mediating the fate of nutrients and contaminants, dissolved oxygen, and temperature in the hyporheic zone (HZ). We conducted a series of numerical simulations of hyporheic processes within a dune with different uniform temperatures, coupling turbulent open channel fluid flow, porous fluid flow, and reactive solute transport to study the temperature dependence of nitrogen source/sink functionality and its efficiency. Two cases were considered: a polluted stream and a pristine stream. Sensitivity analysis was performed to investigate the influence of stream water [NO3−]/[NH4+]. The simulations showed that in both cases warmer temperatures resulted in shallower denitrification zones and oxic‐anoxic zone boundaries, but the trend of net denitrification rate and nitrate removal or production efficiency of the HZ for these two cases differed. For both cases, at high [NO3−]/[NH4+], the HZ functioned as a NO3− sink with the nitrate removal efficiency increasing with temperature. But at low [NO3−]/[NH4+] for the polluted stream, the HZ is a NO3− sink at low temperature but then switches to a NO3− source at warmer temperatures. For the pristine stream case, the HZ was always a NO3− source, with the NO3− production efficiency increasing monotonically with temperature. In addition, although the interfacial fluid flux expectedly increased with increasing temperature due to decreasing fluid viscosity, the total nitrate flux into the HZ did not follow this trend. This is because when HZ nitrification is high, uniformly elevated [NO3−] lowers dispersive fluxes into the HZ. We found that there are numerous confounding and interacting factors that combined to lead to the final temperature dependence of N transformation reaction rates. Although the temperature effect on the rate constant can be considered as the dominant factor, simply using the Arrhenius equation to predict the reaction rate would lead to incomplete insight by ignoring the changes in interfacial fluid and solute fluxes and reaction zone areas. Our study shows that HZ temperature and stream [NO3−]/[NH4+] are key controls for HZ sink/source functions.
Local modulation and trapping of energetic particles by coherent magnetic structures
Authors: Tessein Jeffrey A. , Ruffolo David , Matthaeus William H. , Wan Minping
Published: March 2016

Recent observational studies show strong statistical associations between features of interplanetary suprathermal energetic particle (EP) data and rapid changes in the interplanetary vector magnetic field. The latter are connected to intermittency and coherent magnetic structures, including classical discontinuities. Here we discuss these observations in the context of two appealing theoretical ideas: First, magnetic structures bounding flux tubes can cause local or temporary topological trapping, thus influencing EP transport. Second, charged particles may be accelerated by interacting with dynamic flux tubes, either through reconnection, trapping in secondary islands, or a betatron mechanism. We present observations that support interpretation in terms of trapping boundaries associated with changes in EP flux and also find a case in which an EP peak lies near a coherent magnetic structure that is not a shock, with changing particle anisotropy consistent with outflow from the structure, suggestive of local particle acceleration.
Vertical variation of ice particle size in convective cloud tops
Authors: van Diedenhoven Bastiaan , Fridlind Ann M. , Cairns Brian , Ackerman Andrew S. , Yorks John E.
Published: March 2016

A novel technique is used to estimate derivatives of ice effective radius with respect to height near convective cloud tops (dre/dz) from airborne shortwave reflectance measurements and lidar. Values of dre/dz are about −6 μm/km for cloud tops below the homogeneous freezing level, increasing to near 0 μm/km above the estimated level of neutral buoyancy. Retrieved dre/dz compares well with previously documented remote sensing and in situ estimates. Effective radii decrease with increasing cloud top height, while cloud top extinction increases. This is consistent with weaker size sorting in high, dense cloud tops above the level of neutral buoyancy where fewer large particles are present and with stronger size sorting in lower cloud tops that are less dense. The results also confirm that cloud top trends of effective radius can generally be used as surrogates for trends with height within convective cloud tops. These results provide valuable observational targets for model evaluation.
Tropical cloud buoyancy is the same in a world with or without ice
Authors: Seeley Jacob T. , Romps David M.
Published: March 2016

When convective clouds grow above the melting line, where temperatures fall below 0°C, condensed water begins to freeze and water vapor is deposited. These processes release the latent heat of fusion, which warms cloud air, and many previous studies have suggested that this heating from fusion increases cloud buoyancy in the upper troposphere. Here we use numerical simulations of radiative‐convective equilibrium with and without ice processes to argue that tropical cloud buoyancy is not systematically higher in a world with fusion than in a world without it. This insensitivity results from the fact that the environmental temperature profile encountered by developing tropical clouds is itself determined by convection. We also offer a simple explanation for the large reservoir of convective available potential energy in the tropical upper troposphere that does not invoke ice.
Profiles of Resilience and Psychosocial Outcomes among Young Black Gay and Bisexual Men
Authors: Wilson Patrick A. , Meyer Ilan H. , Antebi‐Gruszka Nadav , Boone Melissa R. , Cook Stephanie H. , Cherenack Emily M.
Published: March 2016

Young Black gay/bisexual men (YBGBM) are affected by contextual stressors—namely syndemic conditions and minority stress—that threaten their health and well‐being. Resilience is a process through which YBGBM achieve positive psychosocial outcomes in the face of adverse conditions. Self‐efficacy, hardiness and adaptive coping, and social support may be important resilience factors for YBGBM. This study explores different profiles of these resilience factors in 228 YBGBM in New York City and compares profiles on psychological distress, mental health, and other psychosocial factors. Four profiles of resilience were identified: (a) Low self‐efficacy and hardiness/adaptive coping (23.5%); (b) Low peer and parental support (21.2%); (c) High peer support, low father support (34.5%); and (d) High father and mother support, self‐efficacy, and hardiness/adaptive coping (20.8%). YBGBM in profile 1 scored markedly higher on distress (d = .74) and lower on mental health functioning (d = .93) compared to men in the other profiles. Results suggest that self‐efficacy and hardiness/adaptive coping may play a more important role in protecting YBGBM from risks compared to social support and should be targeted in interventions. The findings show that resilience is a multidimensional construct and support the notion that there are different patterns of resilience among YBGBM.
Universal Prevention Exposure as a Moderator of the Community Context: Findings from the PROSPER Project
Authors: Chilenski Sarah M. , Welsh Janet A. , Perkins Daniel F. , Feinberg Mark E. , Greenberg Mark T.
Published: March 2016

This study examined how participation in a universal family skills‐building program may interact with community risks and resources to produce youth outcomes. Prior research has noted community‐level variability in risk and protective factors, but thus far no study has examined the role that participation on a community‐wide intervention may play in moderating the effects of community risks or resources. The study included 14 communities (seven in Iowa, seven in Pennsylvania) that implemented a family focused evidence‐based program as part of the PROSPER project. Community level variables included both risk factors (percent of low income families, the availability of alcohol and tobacco, norms regarding adolescent substance use, incidence of drug‐related crimes) and community resources (proactive school leadership, availability of youth‐serving organizations, and student involvement in youth activities). The proximal youth and family outcomes included youth perceptions of their parents’ management skills, parent–child activities, and family cohesion. Results indicated that the Strengthening Families Program:10–14 may have moderated the impact of the community risks and resources on community‐level youth outcomes; risk levels meaningfully associated with community‐level change in program participants, though these results varied somewhat by outcome. Generally, higher levels of resources also meaningfully associated with more positive change after participating in the family‐focused intervention. These results suggest that the effect of some evidence‐based programs may be even stronger in some communities than others; more research in this area is needed.
Character Development within Youth Development Programs: Exploring Multiple Dimensions of Activity Involvement
Authors: Lynch Alicia Doyle , Ferris Kaitlyn A. , Burkhard Brian , Wang Jun , Hershberg Rachel M. , Lerner Richard M.
Published: March 2016

We examined links among three dimensions of youth involvement (intensity, duration, and engagement) in Boy Scouts of America (BSA), an international out‐of‐school time (OST) youth development program designed to promote moral and performance character in boys. Using data from 737 youth and their parents who participated in one of 40 BSA program sites (commonly referred to as “packs”), we first considered how individual‐ and pack‐level measures of program involvement were differentially linked with character development. Next, we examined whether pack‐level involvement characteristics moderate individual‐level involvement characteristics, hypothesizing that highly involved packs would serve to further enhance the positive effects of high levels of individual involvement. Results indicated engagement was the strongest, most frequent predictor of increases in both moral and performance character. Although there were no direct effects of pack‐level intensity, duration, or engagement, the effects of individual‐level engagement were moderated by pack‐level engagement, suggesting that the largest increases in moral and performance character occurred among highly engaged youth who were enrolled in highly engaged packs. These results highlight the need to examine multiple dimensions of OST program involvement simultaneously, and suggest that strengthening youth engagement in programming may provide a means for enhancing the positive effects of high‐quality youth programming.
Highly selective copper‐catalyzed oxidation of benzyl alcohols to aromatic aldehydes in water at room temperature
Authors: Wu Jianglong , Liu Yan , Ma Xiaowei , Liu Ping , Gu Chengzhi , Dai Bin
Published: March 2016

Water‐soluble 2N2O–Cu(II) complexes were synthesized and used for the catalytic oxidation of benzylic alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes in pure water resulting in high yields of up to 94%. Importantly, the catalytic system exhibits a wide substrate scope, high functional group tolerance and can be reused directly for subsequent reaction cycles. Using this catalytic system, the product 4‐methylbenzaldehyde can be produced on a multi‐gram scale and in the complete absence of any organic solvent, surfactant or phase transfer reagent. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.