bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CSF leaks after cranial surgery — a prospective multicenter analysis
Authors: Kehler Uwe , Hirdes Carsten , Weber Clemens , Spuck Sebastian , Tronnier Volker , Kundt Guenther , Piek Jürgen
Published: December 2012

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are well-known and frequent complications of intracranial procedures. Numerous studies have focused on the clinical aspects of incidence, risk factors, outcome, treatment, and prevention; however, large prospective multicenter studies are missing. The aim of this study was to prospectively analyze the rate of CSF leaks and their causes.

Method: A total of 545 patients with a variety of intracranial procedures (elective and trauma) were recruited in a multicenter, prospective, observational study over a 12-month period.

Results: In 545 cranial surgeries, we observed a CSF leak rate of 7.7% (n=42) at the time of discharge from the hospital. Significant risk factors for CSF leaks were posterior fossa surgery, opened pneumatized spaces, patients younger than 66 years, size of craniotomies, craniectomies rather than craniotomies, remaining dura defects larger than 1 cm, and wound closure without using muscle sutures, continuous locked, or unlocked sutures. Non-significant risk factors for CSF leaks were revision craniotomies, craniotomies for different pathologies, previous radiotherapy and/or systemic chemotherapy, augmentation of dura sutures with various materials, and wound drains as well as temporary CSF drains.

Conclusion: Despite the number of techniques and developments for dural closure, the problem of CSF leaks remains evident and further improvement has to be made.
Certain problems of synchronization theory
Authors: Aisagaliev Serikbai A. , Kalimoldayev Maxat N.
Published: December 2012

We investigate the global asymptotical stability of dynamical systems with cylindrical phase space, which appear in the synchronization problem of various control systems. New effective criteria of the global asymptotic stability of a countable equilibrium position are proposed. The technique of improper integrals evaluation along solutions is used.
Isolated low-normal amniotic fluid volume in the early third trimester: association with adverse perinatal outcomesa
Authors: Hashimoto Kazumasa , Kasdaglis Tania , Jain Sheveta , Atkins Kristin , Harman Chris R. , Baschat Ahmet A.
Published: December 2012

Aims: To test if an isolated finding of low-normal amniotic fluid index (AFI) in the early third trimester in low-risk patients is associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.

Methods: Retrospective cohort study with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies that had ultrasound studies between 28.0 and 31.9 weeks’ gestation. Two cohorts with AFI 8.0–11.9 cm (low-normal, LN) and AFI 12.0–19.9 cm (mid-normal, MN) were compared.

Results: Patients with LN-AFI (n=99) were more likely to have early (<34 weeks) and late (<37 weeks) preterm birth (PTB) (relative risk 4.2 and 2.4, respectively) and a small for gestational age (SGA) infant (relative risk 1.8) than MN-AFI (n=834), corresponding to a higher NICU admission rate (relative risk 2.5). The risk of “spontaneous” PTB (preterm labor and rupture of membranes) did not differ between the cohorts, whereas the risk of “indicated” PTB (maternal or fetal indications) was significantly increased in LN-AFI. The incidence of abnormal antepartum testing, stillbirth, preeclampsia, placental abruption, fetal intolerance to labor, emergency cesarean delivery, umbilical artery pH <7.0, Apgar scores <7 at 5 min, and neonatal death was not increased in patients with LN-AFI.

Conclusion: Low-normal AFI in the early third trimester increases the risk for subsequent delivery of an SGA infant and indicated PTB.
Presence of human milk bank is associated with elevated rate of exclusive breastfeeding in VLBW infants
Authors: Arslanoglu Sertac , Moro Guido E. , Bellù Roberto , Turoli Daniela , De Nisi Giuseppe , Tonetto Paola , Bertino Enrico
Published: December 2012

Human milk confers health benefits of vital importance for the sick and preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Mother’s own milk is the first choice in preterm infant feeding, and every effort should be made to promote lactation. When mother’s milk is not available or is insufficient, donor human milk (DHM) is recommended. Yet, occasionally, the concern that the use of DHM might decrease breastfeeding is being raised. The present data collection planned by the Italian Association of Human Milk Banks (AIBLUD) in collaboration with the Italian Neonatal Network (INN) attempted to address this concern. A total of 4277 very low birth weight (VLBW) infants from 83 Italian NICUs were evaluated for this comparative analysis. The 83 Italian NICUs were divided into two groups: centers with a human milk bank (HMB) and centers without a HMB; the available parameters in the network – “any and exclusive breastfeeding rates” and “exclusive formula rate” at discharge – were compared. Exclusive breastfeeding rate at discharge was significantly higher in NICUs with a HMB than in NICUs without (29.6% vs. 16.0%, respectively). Any breastfeeding rate at discharge tended to be higher in the NICUs with HMB (60.4% vs. 52.8%, P=0.09), and exclusive formula rate was lower in the NICUs with HMB (26.5% vs. 31.3%), but this difference was not significant. This report shows that the presence of a HMB and the use of DHM in NICU are associated with increased breastfeeding rate at discharge from the hospital for VLBW infants.
Psychological reactions related to fetal magnetic resonance imaging: a follow-up study
Authors: Leithner Katharina , Prayer Daniela , Porstner Eva , Kapusta Nestor D. , Stammler-Safar Maria , Krampl-Bettelheim Elisabeth , Hilger Eva
Published: December 2012

Aims: To assess the women’s retrospective perception of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods: Thirty-six women were investigated 1 year after fetal MRI. Data was acquired by telephone interviews and standardised rating scales (i.e., Postscan Imaging Distress Questionnaire, mood and anxiety scales).

Results: In retrospect, most women felt that fetal MRI was associated with marked psychological distress, notably with significant greater distress than at the time of the actual investigation. In total, 55.6% of the women rated at least one aspect of fetal MRI as “not tolerable” at follow-up. These findings were irrespective of the affective status and of the outcome of the pregnancy. Yet, MRI was rated as “the most important” investigation during the prenatal period by 69.4% of subjects, and 80.6% felt that they had sufficiently been informed about the MRI findings.

Conclusions: The acceptance of fetal MRI was found to be very high; however, fetal MRI is linked with marked psychological distress, which was still present – and in many cases even stronger – 1 year after the investigation. These data highlight the importance of sufficient information about fetal MRI and the necessity of adequate emotional support in this emotional vulnerable patient sample.
Simulation and modeling of carbon nanotube synthesis: current trends and investigations
Authors: Raji Kochandra , Sobhan Choondal B.
Published: December 2012

A review of significant investigations reported on simulating the nucleation and growth processes of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using different modeling techniques is presented here. Special emphasis is given to the chemical vapor deposition method, being the cheapest and most versatile of the fabrication methods. The modeling methods involve the conventional computational fluid dynamics approaches as well as discrete computation techniques. Some in-house investigations utilizing chemical kinetic modeling and discrete computations to predict the growth of CNTs using the chemical vapor deposition method are also discussed. The modeling and simulation techniques reviewed here are expected to assist in the design of chirality-specific single-walled CNT synthesis systems.
A Test of Huntington’s Thesis
Authors: Gokmen Gunes
Published: December 2012

This paper tests Huntington’s the Clash of Civilizations hypothesis evaluating the impact of civilizations on militarized interstate disputes. In particular, we investigate whether countries that belong to different civilizations tend to be more involved in conflict than countries that belong to the same civilization. We show that over the period of 1816-2001, dissimilarity in civilization in a dyad has no effect on conflict involvement. However, even after controlling for temporal dependence, and for geographic, political, military and economic factors, being part of different civilizations in the post-Cold War period brings about 63.6% higher probability of conflict than belonging to the same civilization, whereas this effect is insignificant during the Cold War.
Clay modification with silane compounds and characterization of the silicone rubber/clay composites
Authors: Jang Kyeong Hoon , Kim Eung-Soo , Jeon Young Ho , Yoon Jin-San
Published: December 2012

Na+ montmorillonite (MMT) was modified with benzyldimethyltetradecylammonium chloride (B13) and further with (3-mercaptopropyl)triethoxysilane and vinyltrimethoxysilane to prepare B13-MMT, mercaptomethylorthosilicate modified MMT (MTMO), and vinyltrimethoxysilane modified MMT (VTMO), respectively. The pristine and modified clays were compounded with an HTV-type silicone rubber (GP-30®), and the physical properties and morphology of the resulting rubber composites were examined. Both HTV/MTMO and HTV/VTMO exhibited an intercalated/exfoliated coexisting morphology, but the degree of exfoliation of the former composite was higher than that of the latter. Moreover, the thermal stability, as assessed by the onset temperature of thermal degradation, as well as the tensile stress, elongation at the break, and tear strength of HTV/MTMO was higher than those of HTV/B13-MMT and HTV/VTMO. However, the cross-linking density of HTV/MTMO was the lowest among the composites examined because the thiol groups of MTMO extinguished and abstracted the radicals formed by the curing agent. Accordingly, the improved mechanical and thermal properties of HTV/MTMO were attributed to the enhanced interactions between HTV and MTMO due to the chemical reaction between the thiol groups of MTMO and the vinyl groups of HTV.
Mechanical properties of polypropylene/glass weft knitted composites hot pressed in various structures and contents
Authors: Semnani Dariush , Zadhoush Ali , Mashayekhi Matin
Published: December 2012

In this study, composites of knitted fabric made from side-by-side multiple glass and polypropylene yarns have been investigated. These composites have been produced by a new manufacturing method – the hot press method. By using various knitted fabrics made from different components of glass and polypropylene yarns, several types of knitted structures and yarn components were investigated: rib 1-1, full Milano and full cardigan. The mechanical properties of composites were measured in three directions. The results showed that hot-pressed knitted composites of glass and polypropylene yarns have high strength, impact resistance, work-to-break and elongation, simultaneously. The highest bending resistance and maximum stiffness are achieved for rib-knitted composites consisting of 8 wt% glass and 92 wt% polypropylene yarns. The highest impact energy absorption was obtained with 18 wt% glass content and 82 wt% polypropylene matrix.
Preparation and characterization of bone-like hydroxyapatite/poly(methyl methacrylate) composite biomaterials
Authors: Yang Benhong , Li Meng , Wu Yun , Huang Jianjiang , Zhang Hui , Deng Chonghai
Published: December 2012

A series of hydroxyapatite (HAp)/poly(methyl mathacrylate) (PMMA) nanocomposites were prepared by free radical copolymerization of surface-modified HAp with methyl mathacrylate (MMA) via a bulk copolymerization process. Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry and X-ray diffraction were employed to characterize the structures of the HAp/PMMA nanocomposites. Scanning electron microscope images showed that the as-prepared composite films were smooth, and no severe aggregation of HAp was observed when HAp content was <10 wt%. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry results indicated that the incorporation of a suitable amount of nanosized HAp enhanced the thermal and mechanical properties of PMMA. When 20 wt% of HAp was incorporated into the PMMA matrix, the glass-transition temperature, thermal degradation temperature and tensile strength increased by 13°C, 52°C and 76.2%, respectively, compared to the mother PMMA. However, higher HAp contents (>20 wt%) weakened the thermal and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites owing to the phase separation in the composite matrix caused by the strong aggregation of HAp particles.
Die Erfindung des esoterischen Nationalsozialismus im Zeichen der Schwarzen Sonne
Authors: Strube Julian
Published: December 2012

Die Behauptung, der Nationalsozialismus sei „esoterisch“
gewesen, wird vor allem seit den 1960er Jahren intensiv verbreitet. Auch in rechtsextremen,
neonazistischen Kreisen finden sich Vorstellungen von einer „esoterischen
SS“, die noch heute unter dem Zeichen der „Schwarzen Sonne“ gegen die
„Mächte des Bösen“ operiere. Jenes Symbol der Schwarzen Sonne findet seit den
1990er Jahren eine massive Verbreitung und ist, wie andere zentrale Topoi dieses
„esoterischen Neonazismus“, längst zum Bestandteil populärer Kultur geworden.
Einerseits wird der Aufsatz die Genealogie des esoterischen Neonazismus rekonstruieren,
andererseits wird er einen Beitrag zu der Frage nach dem vermeintlichen
esoterischen Wesen des Nationalsozialismus leisten. Es kann gezeigt werden,
dass die Konstruktion eines esoterischen Neonazismus nicht auf historisch
belegbaren Grundlagen erfolgen konnte. Das „esoterische“ Wesen des Nationalsozialismus
ist daher als eine Erfindung der Nachkriegszeit zu betrachten.
Zur Überprüfung der perspektivischen Beobachtbarkeit zeitkontinuierlicher linearer zeitinvarianter Systeme
Authors: Moschik Sonja , Stadler Martin , Dourdoumas Nicolaos
Published: December 2012

Für die Beurteilung der perspektivischen Beobachtbarkeit sind notwendige bzw. hinreichende Bedingungen bekannt, deren Überprüfung schwer ist. Für die in vorliegender Arbeit untersuchte Systemklasse kann diese Überprüfung wesentlich vereinfacht werden. Anstatt der ursprünglich unendlichen Anzahl kann eine endliche Anzahl von Parametern angegeben werden, die für die Überprüfung ausreicht. Dadurch wird dieses Kriterium in der Praxis anwendbar. Im Weiteren wird eine Möglichkeit zur numerisch stabilen Prüfung der perspektivischen Beobachtbarkeit vorgestellt.
Bericht vom GMA-Fachausschuss 1.30 “Modellbildung, Identifikation und Simulation in der Automatisierungstechnik”
Authors: Sawodny Oliver
Published: December 2012

In der folgenden Zusammenfassung sollen die Schwerpunkte der diesjährigen GMA-Fachausschusssitzung 1.30 und die dort präsentierten Vorträge kurz vorgestellt werden.
Open Innovation in Portugal
Authors: Teixeira Aurora , Lopes Mariana
Published: December 2012

The empirical studies in the area of Open Innovation (OI) reveal that there is a significant bias in favour of countries on the technological frontier. The present study aims to bridge this gap by examining firms in Portugal, a country at an intermediate stage of technological development. Based on 70 innovative firms, we found that whatever perspective of the OI model is considered, firms tend, on average, to share a relatively closed innovation model when compared with firms located in countries where technological development is advanced. About a quarter of the surveyed firms implemented the OI model in their innovation strategy/business, this being much more widely disseminated regarding the absorption of external knowledge/technology, with almost 40% of firms surveyed acknowledging its use in comparison with the perspective of transfer of knowledge/technology to other organisations — less than 10% provide their “surplus technology” to other organisations. This result may indicate a lack of awareness of the economic potential of making internally created technologies available to third parties, albeit this potential might also depend on other circumstances such as technology architecture (the system and interdependence of technologies).
Frequency, Outcome, and Predictors of Success Within 6 Weeks of an Opioid Rotation Among Outpatients with Cancer Receiving Strong Opioids
Authors: Reddy Akhila , Yennurajalingam Sriram , Pulivarthi Kalyan , Palla Shana L. , Wang Xuan , Kwon Jung Hye , Frisbee-Hume Susan , Bruera Eduardo
Published: December 2012

Learning Objectives

Determine the frequency, indications, and outcomes of opioid rotation in cancer outpatients. Describe the predictors of successful opioid rotation.

Background.

Opioid rotation is used to treat uncontrolled pain and/or opioid-related adverse effects. Our aim was to determine the frequency, indications, outcomes, and predictors of successful opioid rotation in outpatients with cancer.

Methods.

Medical records of consecutive outpatients with cancer who received strong opioids and returned for follow-up visit within ≤6 weeks to our supportive care center from January to December 2008 were reviewed. Data on patient characteristics, symptoms, opioid use, indications for opioid rotation, outcomes, and morphine equivalent daily dose were collected. Successful opioid rotation was defined as a two-point or 30% reduction in the symptom score or the resolution of opioid-induced neurotoxicity and continuation of the new opioid at follow-up.

Results.

Opioid rotation was performed in 120 of 385 patients (31%). The median patient age was 55 years. There were 6/120 patients with missing data. Of the 114 evaluable patients, 68 (60%) were men, 81 (71%) were white, 27 (24%) had gastrointestinal cancer, and 90 (80%) had advanced-stage disease. The median Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group score was 1 (interquartile range: 1–2) and the median time between opioid rotation and follow-up was 14 days (interquartile range: 7–21 days). The most common indications for opioid rotation were uncontrolled pain (95/114; 83%) and opioid-induced neurotoxicity (13/114; 12%). A total of 35 patients (31%) had partial opioid rotation. The median improvements in pain and symptom distress score were −2 (interquartile range: −4 to 0; p < .001) and −5 (interquartile range: −14 to 7; p = .004), respectively. The morphine equivalent daily dose did not change significantly after opioid rotation (p = .156). A total of 65% of patients (74/114) had successful opioid rotation. There were no clinically significant independent predictors for successful opioid rotation.

Conclusion.

Opioid rotation was conducted in 31% of outpatients with cancer, with a 65% success rate. The most frequent reason for opioid rotation was uncontrolled pain. There were no independent predictors for successful opioid rotation.
Management of Generalized Aggressive Periodontitis Using Periodontal and Orthodontic Treatments
Authors: Syrowik Lauren M. , Janic Ana L. , Jacobs Leyvee C.
Published: December 2012

Introduction: This case report presents the use of periodontal therapy sequentially with orthodontics for the treatment of generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP) and associated malocclusion.

Case Presentation: A female patient presented with GAgP. Non‐surgical periodontal treatment and enamel matrix derivative (EMD) therapy were completed while the patient was concurrently undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct Class II malocclusion. Probing depths, free gingival margin, and clinical attachment level (CAL) were evaluated at baseline, 4 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and 1 year after treatment. CAL was the primary outcome variable. A 1‐year postoperative visit revealed that the patient's periodontium had remained stable while still undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Conclusions: Sequential periodontal and orthodontic treatments improved this patient's overall function, occlusion, and esthetics. Regenerative therapy using EMD was effective in this case of GAgP, and results remained stable throughout and after orthodontic treatment.
The Influence of Hybrid Maturity and Planting Date on Sweet Sorghum Productivity during a Harvest Season
Authors: Burks Payne S. , Felderhoff Terry J. , Viator Howard P. , Rooney William L.
Published: December 2012

If sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is to be successfully deployed for sugar and biofuel production, agronomic systems must be developed that maximize the duration of the harvest season. Using available sweet sorghum hybrids, the goal of this study was to determine optimum planting dates and hybrid maturity selection to maximize the duration and yield of a harvest season for a subtropical production environment. Ten sweet sorghum hybrids representing three maturity classes (early, medium, and late) and three planting dates (April, May, and June) were evaluated in replicated trials in 2010 and 2011 in College Station, TX, and each maturity class was harvested to maximize biomass and sugar yields. At this location, sweet sorghum hybrids can be continually harvested from late July to early November. During this time, sugar yields are lowest at the beginning of the season (2.6 Mg ha−1) and highest from late August through early October (5.3 Mg ha−1). As expected, yields are maximized by medium and late maturing hybrids planted in April, but early maturity hybrids and late planting dates are necessary to extend the range of the harvest season. The harvest season of sweet sorghum in this environment is very complementary to the sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) harvest season, indicating that these two crops could be grown and harvested in sequence to extend a mill season in most regions of the world where sugarcane is produced.
Calcite Surface Adsorption of As(V), As(III), MMAs(V), and DMAs(V) and the Impact of Calcium and Phosphate
Authors: Jones Robert G. , Loeppert Richard H.
Published: December 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate the retention of arsenate (iAsV), arsenite (iAsIII), monomethylarsenate (MMAsV), and dimethylarsenate (DMAsV) by calcite and the influences of dissolved Ca, Mg, and phosphate, by means of adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms, competitive adsorption, and chemical equilibrium relationships. Adsorption of iAsV by calcite was quite rapid during the first hour and remained relatively constant after the second hour at both low and high initial As concentrations. The relative adsorption of arsenicals by calcite decreased in the following order: iAsV > iAsIII > DMAsV > MMAsV; however, in no case did As adsorption exceed 90% of added As, even at low initial As concentrations, and clear adsorption maxima were not observed, contrary to the adsorption behavior of phosphate on calcite, where quantitative adsorption at low P concentrations and clear adsorption maxima are commonly observed. Low concentrations of dissolved Ca (0.01 mol CaNO3 L−1) resulted in increased iAsV adsorption, compared with high concentrations (0.1 mol Ca L−1) that resulted in decreased As adsorption. Phosphate retarded iAsV adsorption; however, the reciprocal effect of iAsV on phosphate adsorption was negligible. The current results indicate the relatively minor influence of calcite on As adsorption compared with the substantial impact of Fe oxides and the very different adsorption behaviors of phosphate and iAsV by calcite, in spite of the similar ion sizes, pKa, and ionic symmetries.
Turnover of Manure 15N‐Labelled Ammonium during Composting and Soil Application as Affected by Lime and Superphosphate Addition
Authors: Tran Tien Minh , Luxhøi Jesper , Jensen Lars Stoumann
Published: December 2012

To determine N turnover and losses during aerobic composting of animal manure, a 41‐d laboratory study was performed on pig manure composting with three additive treatments (Straw: pig manure + straw only; Lime: pig manure + straw + quick lime; and SSP: pig manure + straw + single superphosphate). The NH4–N pool in the pig manure was initially labeled with 15N to determine the fate of manure NH4–N during composting. The composts were subsequently applied to soil to investigate the effects on soil mineral N and to trace the 15N during 60 d of incubation at 25°C. Of the initial manure 15NH4–N, approximately 30, 90, and 20% was lost by NH3 volatilization during composting in the Straw, Lime, and SSP treatments, respectively. Concurrently, 62, 16, and 41% of initial 15NH4–N was immobilized in the respective treatments. When the composts were applied to soil, the mineral N in soil with SSP compost was higher throughout the incubation than in soil with Straw and Lime composts. This was because of higher mineral N content in the SSP compost on application and higher net N mineralization from that compost in the soil. In soil with Straw compost, N mineralization and immobilization were slow or effectively in balance. In soil with Lime compost, net N immobilization was strong in the first 10 d, but then net N mineralization dominated the remaining period of soil incubation. Overall, adding lime before composting reduced the NH4–N content in the compost and the amount available in soil, while adding superphosphate increased the NH4–N content in both. Therefore, superphosphate addition increased the potential fertilizer value of composted pig manure.
Straw Mulching Effect on Splash Erosion, Runoff, and Sediment Yield from Eroded Plots
Authors: Gholami Leila , Sadeghi Seyed Hamidreza , Homaee Mehdi
Published: December 2012

Land surface cover affects runoff generation and soil loss processes. Splash erosion occurs by the impact of raindrops on the soil surface. As a result of this process, raindrops detach soil particles, destroy soil structure, and finally, increase runoff and erosion. Amendments improve and reinforce soil aggregates and some physical barriers against raindrop impacts and runoff. The present research was an attempt to determine the efficiency of straw mulch applied at a rate of 0.5 g m−2 in changing the runoff commencement time, runoff amount, splash erosion, and sediment yield from eroded mid‐sized plots at different rainfall intensities under laboratory conditions. The research was conducted on a sandy loam soil taken from summer rangeland in the Alborz Mountains, northern Iran, with simulated rainfall intensities of 30, 50, 70, and 90 mm h−1 and a slope of 30% in three replicates. The collected data from 36 splash cups showed that the straw mulch played an effective role in reducing the splash erosion in both up and down directions, with the maximum reduction occurring at a rainfall intensity of 70 mm h−1. The results of the research also showed that the straw mulch had a significant effect in changing runoff and soil erosion characteristics at a confidence level of 99%. The maximum increase in runoff commencement time (110.10%) was observed for the rainfall intensity of 90 mm h−1. The runoff coefficient had a maximum reduction at rainfall intensities of 30 and 90 mm h−1. The maximum decrease in sediment yield (63.24%) also occurred at the rainfall intensity of 90 mm h−1.
Effects of Mulch Cover Rate on Interrill Erosion Processes and the Size Selectivity of Eroded Sediment on Steep Slopes
Authors: Shi Z.H. , Yue B.J. , Wang L. , Fang N.F. , Wang D. , Wu F.Z.
Published: December 2012

Mulching with vegetative residue is an effective soil conservation practice. A better understanding of sediment characteristics associated with various mulch rates would improve the use of this practice for soil conservation. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of straw mulch on runoff, erosion, and the particle‐size distribution (PSD) of eroded sediment. Straw mulch rates of 0, 15, 30, 50, 70, and 90% cover were tested using simulated rainfall. The effective PSD of sediment (undispersed) was compared with equivalent measurements of the same samples after dispersion (ultimate PSD) to investigate the detachment and transport mechanisms involved in sediment mobilization. The maximum stream occurred at a different time from the peak sediment concentration during rainstorms under low mulch rates, which indicated the predominance of supply‐limited conditions. However, at higher mulch rates the erosion processes were typical of a transport‐limited sediment regime. The ratio of the sediment transported as primary clay to the soil matrix clay content was always less than 1, meaning that most of the clay was eroded in the form of aggregates. Transport selectivity was reflected by the silt enrichment, and silt‐sized particles were transported mainly as primary particles since their effective–ultimate ratio was close to 1. The enrichment ratios for the sand‐sized fractions decreased from 0.98 to 0.38 with increased mulch rates, and effective–ultimate ratios for sand‐sized particles were always greater than 1, indicating that most of these particles were predominantly aggregates of finer particles, especially at high mulch rates. The findings reported in this study have important implications for the assessment and modeling of interrill erosion processes.
Preventable Disasters in the Offshore Oil Industry: From Piper Alpha to Deepwater Horizon
Authors: Woolfson Charles
Published: December 2012

This article compares two industrial disasters in the offshore oil industry, the explosion and fire on Piper Alpha off the coast of Scotland in 1988, the world's worst offshore disaster, and the blowout and explosions on Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. It attempts to answer a simple question: Given the enormity of the first tragedy and the careful analysis of its circumstances and causes, why were the lessons of previous failure not learned by this globally organized industry, in the very heartland in the United States? The answer tells us much about the ability of corporate capital to configure regulatory regimes in its own interests and to do so in a manner that continues to threaten the safety and well-being of its employees and the wider environment.
Lead in atmospheric precipitation: Analysis of atmospheric precipitation pollution monitoring data for location “Kamenicki vis”, Serbia
Authors: Cosovic Aleksandar , Tripic-Stankovic Aleksandra , Adamovic Vladimir , Avdalovic Jelena , Lopicic Zorica
Published: December 2012

In this paper an overview of data collected during monitoring of lead content
in atmospheric precipitation on GAW/EMEP (Global Atmosphere Watch/European
Monitoring and Evaluation Programme) station ?Kamenicki Vis?, Serbia from
2000 to 2010 is given. Annual arithmetic mean concentrations, weighted
arithmetic mean concentrations, and median of week samples are presented.
Obtained data was compared with results of analysis of atmospheric
precipitation collected on experimental EMEP station ?Zeleno brdo?, Serbia
and discussed in scope of European average levels of lead content in
precipitation and air. Significant increase of average annual lead content in
precipitation was observed in 2003 and 2007. Observed peaks can not be seen
on average European trends thus lead to conclusion that recorded increases
are characteristic for local region. In order to further discuss nature and
direction of possible sources of detected lead pollution short analysis of
lead emission data was performed. An effort was made to gather data from the
counties that lay in directions from which dominant winds blow as well as for
Serbia. For this purpose total national emissions from LRTAP (Long-range
transboudary air pollution) Convention emission inventory report and EMEP
emission inventory were used as well as data published by relevant national
authorities. According to these emission levels, majority of surrounding
countries couldn?t have contributed much to the recorded increases of lead
content in precipitation. However, several possible sources were revealed. In
all studied countries emission levels steadily dropped during the analyzed
period, whereas only for Serbia different trend was observed. Presented data
leads to conclusion that recorded increase of lead content in precipitation
in 2003 probably originates from trans-boundary contributions, while
increases in 2007 and onwards may come from Serbia?s own emissions.
Raman study of surface optical phonons in ZnO(Co) nanoparticles prepared by hydrothermal method
Authors: Hadzic Branka , Romcevic Nebojsa , Romcevic Maja , Kuryliszyn-Kudelska Izabela , Dobrowolski Witold , Narkiewicz Ursula , Sibera Daniel
Published: December 2012

On Raman scattering spectra of nanocrystaline samples ZnO(Co) prepared by use
of the microwave assisted hydrothermal synthesis, surface optical phonons
(SOP) where observed in the range of 519 - 572 cm-1. The mean crystalline
size (33 - 300 nm) as well as the phase composition of obtained samples (ZnO,
ZnCo2O4) where determinate with X - ray diffraction measurements. These
measurements aloud us to study the change of SOP modes position with
crystalline size and how change in concentration of doping element CoO
influence the change of SOP modes intensity.
Effect of frequent laser irradiation on orthodontic pain
Authors: Kim Won Tae , Bayome Mohamed , Park Jun-Beom , Park Jae Hyun , Baek Seung-Hak , Kook Yoon-Ah
Published: December 2012

Objective:

To analyze the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on perception of pain after separator placement and compare it with perceptions of control and placebo groups using a frequent irradiation protocol.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty-eight patients were randomly allocated to a laser group, a light-emitting diode (LED) placebo group, or a control group. Elastomeric separators were placed on the first molars. In the laser and LED groups, first molars were irradiated for 30 seconds every 12 hours for 1 week using a portable device. Pain was marked on a visual analog scale at predetermined intervals. Repeated measure analysis of variance was performed for statistical analysis.

Results:

The pain scores of the laser group were significantly lower than those of the control group up to 1 day. The pain scores in the LED group were not significantly different from those of the laser group during the first 6 hours. After that point, the pain scores of the LED group were not significantly different from those of the control.

Conclusions:

Frequent LLLT decreased the perception of pain to a nonsignificant level throughout the week after separator placement, compared with pain perception in the placebo and control groups. Therefore, LLLT might be an effective method of reducing orthodontic pain.
A Lipidomics Analysis of the Relationship Between Dietary Fatty Acid Composition and Insulin Sensitivity in Young Adults
Authors: Kien C. Lawrence , Bunn Janice Y. , Poynter Matthew E. , Stevens Robert , Bain James , Ikayeva Olga , Fukagawa Naomi K. , Champagne Catherine M. , Crain Karen I. , Koves Timothy R. , Muoio Deborah M.
Published: December 2012

Relative to diets enriched in palmitic acid (PA), diets rich in oleic acid (OA) are associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. To gain insight into mechanisms underlying these observations, we applied comprehensive lipidomic profiling to specimens collected from healthy adults enrolled in a randomized, crossover trial comparing a high-PA diet to a low-PA/high-OA (HOA) diet. Effects on insulin sensitivity (SI) and disposition index (DI) were assessed by intravenous glucose tolerance testing. In women, but not men, SI and DI were higher during HOA. The effect of HOA on SI correlated positively with physical fitness upon enrollment. Principal components analysis of either fasted or fed-state metabolites identified one factor affected by diet and heavily weighted by the PA/OA ratio of serum and muscle lipids. In women, this factor correlated inversely with SI in the fasted and fed states. Medium-chain acylcarnitines emerged as strong negative correlates of SI, and the HOA diet was accompanied by lower serum and muscle ceramide concentrations and reductions in molecular biomarkers of inflammatory and oxidative stress. This study provides evidence that the dietary PA/OA ratio impacts diabetes risk in women.
Health Care Costs in People With Diabetes and Their Association With Glycemic Control and Kidney Function
Authors: McBrien Kerry A. , Manns Braden J. , Chui Betty , Klarenbach Scott W. , Rabi Doreen , Ravani Pietro , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Wiebe Natasha , Au Flora , Clement Fiona
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between laboratory-derived measures of glycemic control (HbA1c) and the presence of renal complications (measured by proteinuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) with the 5-year costs of caring for people with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We estimated the cumulative 5-year cost of caring for people with diabetes using a province-wide cohort of adults with diabetes as of 1 May 2004. Costs included physician visits, hospitalizations, ambulatory care (emergency room visits, day surgery, and day medicine), and drug costs for people >65 years of age. Using linked laboratory and administrative clinical and costing data, we determined the association between baseline glycemic control (HbA1c), proteinuria, and kidney function (eGFR) and 5-year costs, controlling for age, socioeconomic status, duration of diabetes, and comorbid illness.

RESULTS

We identified 138,662 adults with diabetes. The mean 5-year cost of diabetes in the overall cohort was $26,978 per patient, excluding drug costs. The mean 5-year cost for the subset of people >65 years of age, including drug costs, was $44,511 (Canadian dollars). Cost increased with worsening kidney function, presence of proteinuria, and suboptimal glycemic control (HbA1c >7.9%). Increasing age, Aboriginal status, socioeconomic status, duration of diabetes, and comorbid illness were also associated with increasing cost.

CONCLUSIONS

The cost of caring for people with diabetes is substantial and is associated with suboptimal glycemic control, abnormal kidney function, and proteinuria. Future studies should assess if improvements in the management of diabetes, assessed with laboratory-derived measurements, result in cost reductions.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Prevalence of Proteinuric and Nonproteinuric Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bhalla Vivek , Zhao Beinan , Azar Kristen M.J. , Wang Elsie J. , Choi Sarah , Wong Eric C. , Fortmann Stephen P. , Palaniappan Latha P.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine racial/ethnic differences in the prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), with and without proteinuria, in an outpatient health care organization.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined electronic health records for 15,683 persons of non-Hispanic white (NHW), Asian (Asian Indian, Chinese, and Filipino), Hispanic, and non-Hispanic black (NHB) race/ethnicity with type 2 diabetes and no prior history of kidney disease from 2008 to 2010. We directly standardized age- and sex-adjusted prevalence rates of proteinuric DKD (proteinuria with or without low estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR]) or nonproteinuric DKD (low eGFR alone). We calculated sex-specific odds ratios of DKD in racial/ethnic minorities (relative to NHWs) after adjustment for traditional DKD risk factors.

RESULTS

Racial/ethnic minorities had higher rates of proteinuric DKD than NHWs (24.8–37.9 vs. 24.8%) and lower rates of nonproteinuric DKD (6.3–9.8 vs. 11.7%). On adjusted analyses, Chinese (odds ratio 1.39 for women and 1.56 for men), Filipinos (1.57 for women and 1.85 for men), Hispanics (1.46 for women and 1.34 for men), and NHBs (1.50 for women) exhibited significantly (P < 0.01) higher odds of proteinuric DKD than NHWs. Conversely, Chinese, Hispanic, and NHB women and Hispanic men had significantly lower odds of nonproteinuric DKD than NHWs.

CONCLUSIONS

We found novel racial/ethnic differences in DKD among patients with type 2 diabetes. Racial/ethnic minorities were more likely to have proteinuric DKD and less likely to have nonproteinuric DKD. Future research should examine diverse DKD-related outcomes by race/ethnicity to inform targeted prevention and treatment efforts and to explore the etiology of these differences.
Acute-Phase Serum Amyloid A Protein and Its Implication in the Development of Type 2 Diabetes in the KORA S4/F4 Study
Authors: Marzi Carola , Huth Cornelia , Herder Christian , Baumert Jens , Thorand Barbara , Rathmann Wolfgang , Meisinger Christa , Wichmann H.-Erich , Roden Michael , Peters Annette , Grallert Harald , Koenig Wolfgang , Illig Thomas
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

We sought to investigate whether elevated levels of acute-phase serum amyloid A (A-SAA) protein precede the onset of type 2 diabetes independently of other risk factors, including parameters of glucose metabolism.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Within the population-based Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg (KORA) S4 study, we measured A-SAA concentrations in 836 initially nondiabetic subjects (55–74 years of age) without clinically overt inflammation who participated in a 7-year follow-up examination including an oral glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS

A-SAA concentrations were significantly associated with incident type 2 diabetes (odds ratio [OR] for a one-SD increase of A-SAA adjusted for age and sex = 1.28 [95% CI 1.08–1.53], P = 0.005), particularly in younger subjects (P value for interaction = 0.047). The association attenuated when adjusting for parameters of glucose metabolism (fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HbA1c, and 2-h glucose; OR 1.16 [0.95–1.42], P = 0.15). Similar analyses for high-sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) yielded the following ORs: 1.39 (1.10–1.68, P = 0.0006) and 1.13 (0.88–1.45, P = 0.34), respectively. In contrast, A-SAA concentrations were significantly associated with 2-h glucose levels at follow-up even after adjustment for parameters of glucose metabolism (P = 0.008, n = 803).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate similarly strong prospective associations with type 2 diabetes for A-SAA and hs-CRP and suggest a potential causal link via postchallenge hyperglycemia.
Effect of Passive Smoke Exposure on General Anesthesia for Pediatric Dental Patients
Authors: Thikkurissy S. , Crawford Bethany , Groner Judith , Stewart Roderick , Smiley Megann K.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to test the null hypothesis that children with environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure (also known as passive smoke exposure) do not demonstrate an increased likelihood of adverse respiratory events during or while recovering from general anesthesia administered for treatment of early childhood caries. Parents of children (ages 19 months–12 years) preparing to receive general anesthesia for the purpose of dental restorative procedures were interviewed regarding the child's risk for ETS. Children were observed during and after the procedure by a standardized dentist anesthesiologist and postanesthesia care unit nurse who independently recorded severity of 6 types of adverse respiratory events—coughing, laryngospasm, bronchospasm, breath holding, hypersecretion, and airway obstruction. Data from 99 children were analyzed. The children for whom ETS was reported were significantly older than their ETS-free counterparts (P = .03). If the primary caregiver smoked, there was a significantly higher incidence of smoking by other members of the family (P < .0001) as well as smoking in the house (P < .0005). There were no significant differences between the adverse respiratory outcomes of the ETS (+) and ETS (−) groups. The ETS (+) children did have significantly longer recovery times (P < .0001) despite not having significantly more dental caries (P = .38) or longer procedure times. ETS is a poor indicator of post–general anesthesia respiratory morbidity in children being treated for early childhood caries.
Basic and Clinical Pharmacology of Autonomic Drugs
Authors: Becker Daniel E.
Published: December 2012

Autonomic drugs are used clinically to either imitate or inhibit the normal functions of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. A large number of additional drug classes also interact with these systems to produce a stunning number of possible side effects. This article reviews the basic function of the autonomic nervous system and the various drug classes that act within these neural synapses.
Testing Farmers’ Perception of Climate Variability: A Case Study from Kirtipur of Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Poudel Jiban Mani
Published: December 2012

In the 21st century, global climate change has become a public and political discourse. However, there is still a wide gap between global and local perspectives. The global perspective focuses on climate fluctuations that affect the larger region; and their analysis is based on long-term records over centuries and millennium. By comparison, local peoples’ perspectives vary locally, and local analyses are limited to a few days, years, decades and generations only. This paper examines how farmers in Kirtipur of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, understand climate variability in their surroundings. The researcher has used a cognized model to understand farmers’ perception on weather fluctuations and climate change. The researcher has documented several eyewitness accounts of farmers about weather fluctuations which they have been observing in a lifetime. The researcher has also used rainfall data from 1970-2009 to test the accuracy of perceptions. Unlike meteorological analyses, farmers recall and their understanding of climatic variability by weather-crop interaction, and events associating with climatic fluctuations and perceptions are shaped by both physical visibility and cultural frame or belief system.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v11i1.7200 Hydro Nepal Special Issue: Conference Proceedings 2012 pp.30-34
Genetic Variability of Drought Adaptive Traits in Nepalese Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Germplasm
Authors: Pokharel Dipendra , Pandey Madhav
Published: December 2012

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the major cereal crops vital for global food supply. Most of the wheat crop in developing world including that of Nepal is either grown with limited irrigation or under rainfed conditions and thus face moisture stress at one or more growth stages limiting grain yield. An experiment was carried out at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Rampur, Nepal, to evaluate the genetic variability of selected drought adaptive traits in Nepalese wheat germplasm. The wheat genotypes evaluated comprised of Nepalese landraces and commercial cultivars, CIMMYT (International Center for Maize and Wheat Improvement) derived advanced introduction lines and three checks with differential drought adaptability. The wheat genotypes were grown in pots (single plant) arranged in a replicated split plot design in greenhouse under two contrasting moisture regimes, optimum and moisture stressed. The genotypes were evaluated for water use, water use efficiency, relative leaf water content and biomass production. The ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) revealed significant variation between environments and among the wheat genotypes for most of the traits studied. A wide range of variability was observed for water use, water use efficiency, biomass yield and relative leaf water content in moisture stressed and non–stressed environments. Nepalese cultivar Gautam showed a number of favorable drought adaptive traits, whereas, Bhrikuti was average in this respect. Based on the scores of drought adaptive traits recently released Cultivar (cv). Vijay was characterized as drought sensitive. A number of landraces and advanced breeding lines showed high level of water use efficiency and other positive traits for drought adaptation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hn.v11i1.7208 Hydro Nepal Special Issue: Conference Proceedings 2012 pp.64-68