bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flipping the Paradigm of Education
Authors: Russell Donna
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to define a prototype for a comprehensive educational program that integrates virtual immersive learning environments into traditional educational settings to develop innovative educational programs. The Future of Learning (FoL) protocol combines an integrative curriculum guide providing educators with thematic modular units of study that are designed based on problem-based learning principles and a FoL learning management system where online learning environments are structured to be integrated into p-12 educational settings and provide a login protected interface for educators and learners to access all the aspects of the FoL protocol including 1) a home page for the educational program linking all aspects of the protocol, 2) a learner home page, 3) a learning analytic system and 4) access to a 3d simulation world. The comprehensive and modular design of the Future of Learning protocol means that it can be integrated in a multitude of p-12 educational programs and define the future of learning.
An Examination of Pre-Service Teachers' Attitudes towards Game-Based Learning
Authors: Vu Phu , Fredrickson Scott , Hoehner Patricia , Ziebarth-Bovill Jane K.
Published: October 2015

This chapter examined pre-service teachers' attitudes toward game-based learning. Research participants included 30 pre-service teachers at a Midwest public university. The research participants took an online course in which game elements such as online mini games as either warm-up or wrap-up activities were integrated. After the course, the researchers analyzed participants' login data and collected their responses to an open online survey. The research results showed that students enjoyed playing games integrated into the course. They spent time playing the games and found them enjoyable and useful. The participants valued the usefulness of integrating games into the classroom. Playing games helped them focus on the topic and review what they had learned from the lecture. They also indicated that they would integrate games into their teaching.
Using a Live Simulation to Teach Human Anatomy and the Diagnostic Process to High School Students
Authors: Piecka Debra C. Burkey , Calinger Manetta
Published: October 2015

This chapter describes and defines role-play simulations. Reviews of two undergraduate role-play studies highlight the advantages and benefits of using simulations. Few secondary students participate in science or STEM role-plays during their high school careers. This chapter portrays the CyberSurgeons live simulation where teams of students use critical thinking skills and scientific knowledge to solve emergency medical problems. During their virtual mission students become part of an emergency medical team aboard a National Institutes of Health (NIH) mercy ship traveling up the Amazon River. Authors describe CyberSurgeons' learning goals, design features, mission day experiences, and the summative evaluation. Findings from the summative evaluation indicate that the CyberSurgeons program provides an authentic context for high school students to apply their knowledge of biology, physiology, and the diagnostic process to analyze data and make decisions as professionals in the biomedical field. Recommendations and future research considerations close this chapter.
Gender Dimension of ICTs in Latin America
Authors: Montiel Aimée Vega
Published: October 2015

The 1995 Beijing Platform for Action posed strategies to have in media and information technologies an ally for gender equality. “Chapter J” identified core areas for this agenda: content and representation, access of women to decision-making positions at media and ICTs, gender mainstreaming in communication policy, access and use of women to media and ICTs. These strategies were reinforced by the World Summit on Information Society, that pointed out the prominent role of ICTs in women's human rights. The aim of this paper is to contribute to a constructive debate on gender and ICTs, by presenting some of the most significative trends in Latin America.
Reading Online
Authors: Winocur Rosalía
Published: October 2015

The popularization of mobile devices in the everyday life of Mexico City's broad socio-cultural sectors, particularly the cell phone, calls attention to the fact that young people read and write permanently, from the moment they wake up to the time they go to bed. They receive and answer dozens of messages throughout the day, and they search and publish all kinds of information. Nonetheless, surveys that measure reading practices leave out questions about these experiences, and subjects, when questioned about their reading habits and preferences, don't mention nor recognize them in their answers. These observations led us to ethnography traditional and emergent reading and writing practices and representations that young people studying Communication in a public university have. Its main results are reviewed in this paper.
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation on Hydrodynamic Performance of a Twisted Rudder
Authors: Sun Yu , Su Yu-min , Hu Hai-zhou
Published: October 2015

AbstractTo analyze the energy-saving effect of a twisted rudder, this work presents the simulated and experimental results of propeller-rudder systems. In this article, a surface panel method (SPM) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) are introduced to simulate the hydrodynamic
performance of propeller-rudder systems. The thrust coefficient Kt, torque coefficient Kq, open-water efficiency η of the propeller, and thrust coefficient Kr of the rudder as a function of the advance coefficient J are
obtained and plotted. The energy-saving effect of the twisted rudder is analyzed by comparing the results of numerical simulation and a cavitation tunnel experiment. The experimental energy-saving effect is 2.23% at the design advance coefficient J = 0.8. The pressure distributions
of the propeller blade and rudder are plotted by two methods, and the difference of the force on an ordinary rudder and a twisted rudder is discussed. This study improved the experimental twisted rudder model. The change makes the rudder take advantage of propeller wake and improves the energy-saving
effect of a twisted rudder. After improvement, the energy-saving effects obtained by the two methods are 0.448% and 0.441%. To analyze the energy-saving mechanism, this study compares the pressure distributions and efficiencies of different systems.
Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas) Have Novel Asymmetrical Antibodies
Authors: Work Thierry M. , Dagenais Julie , Breeden Renee , Schneemann Anette , Sung Joyce , Hew Brian , Balazs George H. , Berestecky John M.
Published: October 2015

Igs in vertebrates comprise equally sized H and L chains, with exceptions such as H chain–only Abs in camels or natural Ag receptors in sharks. In Reptilia, Igs are known as IgYs. Using immunoassays with isotype-specific mAbs, in this study we show that green turtles (Chelonia mydas) have a 5.7S 120-kDa IgY comprising two equally sized H/L chains with truncated Fc and a 7S 200-kDa IgY comprised of two differently sized H chains bound to L chains and apparently often noncovalently associated with an antigenically related 90-kDa moiety. Both the 200- and 90-kDa 7S molecules are made in response to specific Ag, although the 90-kDa molecule appears more prominent after chronic Ag stimulation. Despite no molecular evidence of a hinge, electron microscopy reveals marked flexibility of Fab arms of 7S and 5.7S IgY. Both IgY can be captured with protein G or melon gel, but less so with protein A. Thus, turtle IgY share some characteristics with mammalian IgG. However, the asymmetrical structure of some turtle Ig and the discovery of an Ig class indicative of chronic antigenic stimulation represent striking advances in our understanding of immunology.
Blood-based Biomarkers at Large Bowel Endoscopy and Prediction of Future Malignancies
Authors: Kring Thomas S. , Piper Thomas B. , Jørgensen Lars N. , Olsen Jesper , Rahr Hans B. , Nielsen Knud T. , Laurberg Søren , Davis Gerard , Dowell Barry , Johansen Julia S. , Christensen Ib J. , Brünner Nils , Nielsen Hans J.
Published: October 2015

Soluble cancer-related protein biomarker levels may be increased in subjects without findings at large bowel endoscopy performed due to symptoms associated with colorectal cancer. The present study focused on a possible association between increased biomarker levels in such subjects and subsequent development of malignant diseases. In a major study of 4,990 subjects undergoing large bowel endoscopy, 691 were without pathology and comorbidity. Plasma levels of TIMP-1, CEA, CA19-9, and YKL-40 were determined in samples collected just before endoscopy and compared with subsequent development of a malignant disease within a period of 7-8 years. The upper 90% limits of the reference levels of every single protein were used to differentiate between normal and increased levels. The levels were separated into three groups: 0, none of the biomarkers increased; 1, one biomarker increased; 2, two or more biomarkers increased. A total of 43 subjects developed a primary malignant disease in the observation period. Univariatly, increase of all four biomarkers was significantly associated with subsequent development of a malignant disease. A multivariate analysis showed that increased biomarker levels were associated with subsequent development of a malignant disease ( P = 0.002). The cumulative risk of developing malignant disease within the first 5 years after endoscopy was group 0, 3.3%; group 1, 5.8%; group 2, 7.8%. It is concluded that increased levels of plasma TIMP-1, CEA, CA19-9, and serum YKL-40 at large bowel endoscopy without findings may be associated with an increased risk of developing a subsequent malignant disease.
Topografía digital y nuevas perspectivas en el oratorio bizantino de la catacumba de Santa Lucía de Siracusa
Authors: Galizia Mariateresa , Santagati Cettina , Sgarlata Mariarita
Published: October 2015

The study conducted Oratory Byzantine catacombs of Saint Lucia in Syracuse comes from the observation of the precarious condition of the underground funerary complex from the point of view of the static structures, which have undergone several alterations over the centuries due to landslides, blockages, collapses and subsequent excavations, conservation of the frescoes found that as a result of survey campaigns that have occurred intermittently on the monument. These difficulties have conditioned the public opening of only a part of the catacombs -la region A and the Oratory of the Forty Martiri- leaving hidden the community many significant spaces including the Oratory. The research will then, through the survey instrument with laser scanner, acquire a geometric-formal documentation of this important area through a 3D model on which to investigate aspects of a static nature, geological, material, historical, archaeological, necessary for a proper design of future interventions for the protection and consolidation of the catacomb. In fact, the 3D model obtained is a virtual copy of the recorded space through which it is possible to speculate on some design and physical environmental conditions of the sites, such as lighting and ventilation, and on some solutions distribution-functional, providing also a possible model for 3D navigation allows the virtual tour of the places underground. The location of the site, the distribution of the planimetric and static environmental conditions represented in research critical issues to be addressed in the survey phase of underground sites, providing for the research group of the fixed points on which to structure a possible protocol operating acquisition, integration, management and processing of the acquired data subject to change.
Impact of physical manipulation on in vitro and in vivo release profiles of oxycodone DETERx®: An extended-release, abuse-deterrent formulation
Authors: Kopecky, PhD, MBA Ernest A. , Fleming, PhD Alison B. , Noonan, PhD Patrick K. , Varanasi, MPharm Ravi K. , Grima, BS Michael , Saim, PhD Said , Mayock, BS Stephen P.
Published: October 2015

Objective: In vitro: To assess the effect of common crushing techniques on particle size reduction (PSR) and in vitro drug-release kinetics of oxycodone DETERx® (herein DETERx) and of a commercially available oxycodone extended-release (ER) tablet. In vivo: To evaluate the impact of the most effective manipulation method identified in the in vitro study and the effect of chewing on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of DETERx relative to oxycodone solution.Design: In vitro: Mechanical manipulation of dosage forms using common household utensils. In vivo: Open-label, randomized, active-controlled, crossover PK study.Subjects: In vivo: Forty-four healthy male and female volunteers.Methods: In vitro: DETERx capsule contents and marketed comparator tablets were subjected to manipulation (crushing) using 10 different household utensils. Particle size and dissolution analysis were conducted. In vivo: Subjects were randomly assigned to receive DETERx 40-mg capsules intact, crushed, or chewed or oxycodone solution. Serial blood samples were drawn for PK assessment.Results: In vitro: The utensils used to manipulate DETERx capsule contents were either ineffective in reducing the particle size or produced only a small change in the median particle size and dissolution rate relative to the marketed comparator. In vivo: DETERx intact capsules provided significantly lower Cmax and longer Tmax values than oxycodone solution. Manipulation of DETERx by crushing (using the most effective method established in vitro) or chewing resulted in bioequivalent plasma concentration-time profiles to the intact dosage form.Conclusion: These mechanical manipulation and PK studies demonstrated that DETERx beads retained their ER properties after mechanical tampering and chewing by study subjects.
Review article. Opioid analgesics: Does potency matter?
Authors: Passik, PhD Steven D. , Webster, MD Lynn
Published: October 2015

Prescription opioid analgesics with a wide range of potencies are currently used for the treatment of chronic pain. Yet understanding the clinical relevance and therapeutic consequences of opioid potency remains ill defined. Both patients and clinicians alike have misperceptions about opioid potency, expecting that lesspotent opioids will be less effective or fearing that more-potent opioids are more dangerous or more likely to be abused. In this review, common myths about the potency of opioid analgesics will be discussed. Clinicians should understand that pharmacologic potency per se does not necessarily imply more effective analgesia or higher abuse liability. Published dose conversion tables may not accurately calculate the dose for effective and safe rotation from one opioid to another in patients receiving long-term opioid therapy because they are based on limited data that may not apply to chronic pain. Differences in pharmacologic potency are largely accounted for by the actual doses prescribed, according to individualized patient need. Factors for achieving effective analgesia and reducing the risks involved with opioid use include careful medication selection based on patient characteristics, appropriate dosing titration and opioid rotation practices, knowledge of product formulation characteristics (eg, extended release, immediate release, and tamper-resistant features), and an awareness of differences in opioid pharmacokinetics and metabolism. Clinicians should remain vigilant in monitoring patients on any opioid medication, regardless of classification along the opioid potency continuum.
A multiproxy approach to understanding the "enhanced" flux of organic matter through the oxygen deficient waters of the Arabian Sea
Authors: Keil R. G. , Neibauer J. , Biladeau C. , van der Elst K. , Devol A. H.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Free-drifting sediment net traps were deployed 14 times at depths between 80 and 500 m for 1–3 days each during the late monsoon/intermonsoon transition in the central Arabian Sea. Two locations (19.5 and 15.5° N) were within the permanently oxygen deficient zone, and a third (11° N) had a shallow and thin oxygen minimum. The secondary nitrite maximum, which serves as a tracer of the oxygen deficient zone (ODZ) zone, thinned from ∼ 250 m thick at stations 19.5 and 15.5° N to ∼ 50 m thick at station 11° N. Overall, organic carbon fluxes ranged from 13.2 g m2 yr−1 at 80 m to a minimum of 1.1 g m2 yr−1 at 500 m. Fluxes at the more oxygenated 11° N station attenuate faster than within the permanent ODZ. Martin curve attenuation coefficients for 19.5 and 15.5° N are 0.59 and 0.63 and for 11° N it is 0.98. At least six potential mechanisms might explain why sinking particles sinking through the ODZ are more effectively transferred to depth; (M1) oxygen effects, (M2) microbial loop efficiencies and chemoautotrophy, (M3) changes in zooplankton dynamics, (M4) additions of ballast that might sorb and protect organic matter from decay, (M5) inputs of refractory organic matter, and (M6) changes in sinking speeds. These mechanisms are intertwined, and were explored using a combination of mineral (XPS) and organic matter characterizations of the sinking material and ship-board incubation experiments. Evidence was found supporting an oxygen effect and/or changes in the efficiency of the microbial loop including the addition of chemoautotrophic carbon to the sinking flux in the upper 500 m. Less evidence was found for the other potential mechanisms. A simple conceptual model consistent with our and other recent data suggests that the upper ODZ microbial community determines the initial flux attenuation, and that deeper in the water column zooplankton and sinking speed become more important. The exact interplay between the various mechanisms remains to be further evaluated.
Snow on Arctic sea ice: model representation and last decade changes
Authors: Castro-Morales K. , Ricker R. , Gerdes R.
Published: October 2015

Abstract. Together with sea ice, Arctic snow has experienced vast changes during the last decade due to a warming climate. Thus, it is relevant to study the past and present changes of Arctic snow to understand the implications to the sea ice component, precipitation, heat and radiation budgets. In this study, we analyze the changes of snow depth between 2000 and 2013 at regional scale represented in an Arctic coupled sea ice-general circulation model. We evaluate the model performance by direct comparison of the modeled snow depths (hs_mod) to snow depths from radar measurements from the NASA Operation IceBridge (hs_OIB) during the flight campaigns completed from 2009 to 2013. Despite the description of the snow in our model is simple (i.e. single layer without explicit snow redistribution processes) as in many current sea-ice models; the latitudinal distribution of hs_mod in the western Arctic is in good agreement to observations. The hs_mod is on average 3 cm thicker than hs_OIB in latitudes > 76° N. According to the model results, the hs in 2013 decreased 21 % with respect to the multi-year mean between 2000 and 2013. This snow reduction occurred mainly in FYI dominated areas, and is in good agreement to the year-to-year loss of sea ice, also well reproduced by the model. In a simple snow mass budget, our results show that 65 % of the yearly accumulated snow is lost by sublimation and snowmelt due to the heat transfer between the snow/ice interface and the atmosphere. Although the snow layer accumulates again every year, the long-term reduction in the summer sea-ice extent ultimately affects the maximum spring accumulation of snow. The model results exhibit a last decade thinning of the snowpack that is however one order of magnitude lower than previous estimates based on radar measurements. We suggest that the later is partially due to the lack of explicit snow redistribution processes in the model, emphasizing the need to include these in current sea-ice models to improve the snow representations.
The Dars: South Asian Muslim American Women Negotiate Identity
Authors: Khan Fariha
Published: October 2015

The predominant discourse surrounding Islam on the national landscape conceals the diversity of experiences for Muslim Americans. A close examination of the local landscape of a women’s dars, or Quranic study group, contradicts gendered stereotypes. The dars gathering is a space of shared narratives, agency, and socialization. The nuanced reading of the discourse reveals a negotiation of religious and ethnic identity. Within their local communities, these groups of immigrant women are actively shaping their lives as distinctly South Asian Muslim American.
Effect of Instructing Care Program Through Group Discussion on the Quality of Life of the Parents of the Children Afflicted With Leukemia
Authors: Asadi Noughabi Fariba , Iranpoor Daryoush , Yousefi Hadi , Abrakht Hakimeh , Ghani Dehkordi Fatemeh
Published: October 2015

PURPOSE: Children long-term involvement with cancer may have a negative impact on the quality of life their parents. Design and implementation of training programs for parents whose children have been diagnosed with leukemia, as the primary caregivers of children, will have a special significance and can contribute to better taking care of such children. The main purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of conducting group discussion, as care program training, on the quality of life parents whose children were suffering from leukemia.

METHODS: This quasi-experimental before-after intervention study encompassed two groups of parents (in total 41) of leukemia children. To collect data, a demographic questionnaire and the shortened version of SF-36 questionnaire were used to determine the quality of life of parents. Both groups completed the quality of life questionnaires before and two months after the intervention.

RESULTS: Comparison of the parents’ quality of life mean scores, obtained before and two months after training, showed that promotion in 6 domains of bodily pain, general health, emotional health, role limitation due to emotional problems, social functioning, and vitality were occurred. (P <0.05)

CONCLUSIONS: Considering the important role of parents in taking care of children suffering from leukemia, introduction of care program training can be a positive step to help these parents and empower them to manage their children’s problems more systematically and will ultimately lead to improved quality of life of parents.
Evaluation of the Persian Transcript of the COPD Assessment Test in the Measurement of COPD Health Status in Iranian COPD Patients
Authors: Azargon Alireza , Gholami Mohammadreza , Farhadi Ali , Hadi Chegni Maryam , Zendedel Abolfazl
Published: October 2015

AIM: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a completely irreversible obstructive airway disease. The COPD assessment test (CAT) is one of the standard methods for the clinical assessment of the disease, which is translated into Persian. This study investigated the reliability of the test and its relationship with the severity of the disease.

METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 120 patients filled out the Persian transcript of the test. After two weeks, the patients filled out the CAT test again. Obstruction severity was determined for all the patients using spirometry, and the patients were categorized into four groups according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease criteria. The relationship between the test scores and the disease severity wan validated.

RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 51.5 years. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the Persian transcript of the test was 0.872 in the first time, and 0.885 in the second time. Intragroup reliability, test re-test and intragroup correlations were significant for all the questions (<0.001). The relationship between the test mean score and obstruction severity was significant, and the correlation between disease categorization in accordance with obstruction severity and categorization according to the test score was significant as well.

CONCLUSION: The Persian transcript of the assessment test for COPD was reliable and is directly related to the disease severity according to airflow limitation.
The growth relationships in maiden trees of sour cherry ‘Łutówka’
Authors: Lipecki Janusz , Lipa Tomasz , Szot Iwona
Published: October 2015

The studies were conducted in a nursery of sour cherry ‘Łutówka’ budded on Prunus mahaleb L. in the years 1993, 2000–2003, and 2013. The height of trees, the diameter of stems, and the length of lateral shoots were measured. The air temperature and precipitation higher than the long-term mean (by approximately 10 % and 28%, respectively) contributed to the increase in the stem diameter, the total length of shoots, and the number of shoots per tree. The length of lateral shoots increased from the top of the crown towards the lower parts, however, the number of feathers per tree and the mean length of shoots decreased. A strong positive relationship (r = 0.74, P < 0.05) was revealed between the stem diameter and the total length of shoots. Generally, the correlations between the type of growth of sour cherry maiden trees and morphological traits were similar to those characteristic for apple maiden trees or “knip-boom” type trees.
Changes in weed infestation of spring barley depending on variable pluvio-thermal conditions
Authors: Krawczyk Roman , Kierzek Roman , Adamczewski Kazimierz
Published: October 2015

The aim of the study was to analyze segetal weeds present in spring barley against the background of changes in pluvio-thermal conditions observed over the last 20 years (1993–2012) at the Field Experimental Station of the Institute of Plant Protection – National Research Institute in Winna Góra, Poland. Based on the mean value of the Sielianinov hydrothermal coefficient for the three months of spring vegetation, i.e., April, May, and June, three classes of pluvio-thermal conditions (very dry, moderately dry, humid) were distinguished. The phytosociological stability of weed species analyzed during the study period was assessed and the Shannon–Wiener index of species diversity in the communities and the Simpson dominance index were calculated for segetal weeds present in spring barley.

In the 20-year period analyzed, Chenopodium album and Viola arvensis exhibited the highest phytosociological stability and the highest abundance in the spring barley crop. Over the years analyzed, the dry spring vegetation periods were characterized by significant precipitation deficiency between late April and mid-June. In the years with favorable meteorological conditions, the weed species diversity measured by the Shannon–Wiener diversity index was higher than in the years with precipitation deficiency. In the very dry years, the species dominance index in the spring vegetation period was higher than in the wet years. The yield loss caused by weed infestation in the very dry years was higher by 6% as compared to moderately dry and wet years.
Highly disjunct and highly infected millipedes – a new cave-dwelling species of Chiraziulus (Diplopoda: Spirostreptida: Cambalidae) from Iran and notes on Laboulbeniales ectoparasites
Authors: Reboleira Ana Sofia P.S. , Malek Hosseini Mohamad Javad , Sadeghi Saber , Enghoff Henrik
Published: October 2015

Chiraziulus is a highly disjunct, hitherto monotypic genus of cambalid millipedes, geographically isolated in Iran by more than 7000 km from its presumed closest relatives in East Asia and North America. Recent fieldwork in caves of Iran has provided several specimens of this genus, allowing the description of Chiraziulus troglopersicus sp. nov. The intraspecific variability of the type species, C. kaiseri Mauriès, 1983, is illustrated with scanning electron micrographs. Chiraziulus is characterized by exceedingly long microtrichose gonopod flagella which from their insertion points on the posterior face of the anterior gonopod coxites first point distad instead of basad or basad-posteriad as in most other flagelliferous Cambalidea (and Julida), then traverse a groove on the mesal surface of the anterior gonopod coxites, making a full (360°) loop. The same feature is also illustrated for the first time in the genus Cambala. The patterns and prevalence of the infection with a species of ectoparasitic fungus of the genus Rickia (order Laboulbeniales) in the type material of C. kaiseri is described. An updated review of the cave-adapted fauna of Iran is given.
Motivating Citizens to Participate in Public Policymaking: Identification, Trust and Cost-Benefit Analyses
Authors: Antonini Matteo , Hogg Michael A. , Mannetti Lucia , Barbieri Barbara , Wagoner Joseph A.
Published: October 2015

Under what conditions do citizens of nations and states comply with governmental requests to participate in public policymaking? Drawing on the dual pathway model of collective action (Stürmer & Simon, 2004) but with a focus on compliance with the status quo, rather than participation in collective protest, two studies examined citizens’ motivation to participate in public policymaking. Study 1 (N = 169) was an MTurk hosted survey that recruited participants from California, while Study 2 (N = 198) was a field experiment that recruited participants in Sardinia, Italy. Study 1 measured cost-benefit analyses, societal identification, and willingness to participate in public policymaking. Study 2 repeated the same procedures, with the exception that we manipulated costs of participation, and also measured participants’ trust in government. Study 1 confirmed our initial hypotheses – fewer costs predicted more willingness to participate, as did stronger state identification. However, Study 2 found an interactive effect of costs, identification, and trust on willingness to participate in public policymaking. Results confirm our hypotheses by showing that both costs and identification independently influence willingness to participate in public policymaking. Results also add to the literature by showing that these additive pathways can be influenced by trust in the source of governance.
Take a Holistic Approach to Groundwater Treatment
Authors: He Charlie
Published: October 2015

No silver bullet exists that can solve all groundwater treatment challenges. Compare raw water quality and treatment goals to develop a customized solution to cost‐effectively treat contaminated groundwater.
Getting the Message Out: A Boil Water Advisory and Customer Response
Authors: Bradway Scott , Akagi Yone , Messier Sarah
Published: October 2015

Issuing a boil water advisory presents drinking water utilities with the challenge of telling customers what happened and what to do in a timely way. A survey helped Portland (Ore.) Water Bureau (PWB) determine the best way to reach its customers and meet their expectations.
L’invention de la créativité
Authors: Michelot Christian
Published: October 2015

Cet article présente deux approches visant à susciter la créativité nécessaire à la
résolution de problèmes : le brainstorming d’Osborn et la synectique de Gordon. Mettant en
perspective ces deux stratégies de déconnection, nous tentons d’apprécier les contributions
et les limites des méthodes de créativité à la résolution des problèmes
pratiques.
Critical Appraisal of Evidence for Improving Gait Speed in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Plummer Prudence
Published: October 2015

Background: Research has not yet compared the treatment effects of dalfampridine with traditional rehabilitation of gait impairments in multiple sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this review was to critically appraise the evidence for dalfampridine and gait training for increasing gait speed in people with MS.

Methods: A systematic search of the research literature was conducted. Consideration was given to only randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. For selection of gait training studies, only studies involving task-specific gait training interventions and measuring treatment effects on gait speed were considered.

Results: Treatment effects on gait speed were extracted from four studies examining the efficacy of dalfampridine and six gait training RCTs. Overall mean increase in gait speed with dalfampridine was 0.07 m/s (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.04–0.09 m/s) compared to 0.06 m/s (95% CI, 0.02–0.10 m/s) for gait training. Among dalfampridine responders (38% of participants in RCTs), the mean increase in gait speed was 0.16 m/s (95% CI, 0.13–0.18 m/s). Mean increases for individual gait training interventions ranged from 0.01 to 0.39 m/s; however, CIs were wide due to small sample sizes.

Conclusions: Current evidence is insufficient to conclude whether dalfampridine or gait training is superior for improving gait speed in people with MS. These findings should be viewed cautiously due to differences in study populations and small sample sizes in gait training studies. Both treatment approaches provide only short-lived improvements. Head-to-head comparison trials and studies combining both treatment modalities are needed.
Low‐Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Treatment at an Early Osteoarthritis Stage Protects Rabbit Cartilage From Damage via the Integrin/Focal Adhesion Kinase/Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xia Peng , Shen Shihao , Lin Qiang , Cheng Kai , Ren Shasha , Gao Mingxia , Li Xueping
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To investigate whether low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (US) has different protective effects on early and late rabbit osteoarthritis cartilage via the integrin/focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway.

Methods

Thirty‐six New Zealand White rabbits were divided into early control, early osteoarthritis, early treatment, late control, late osteoarthritis, and late treatment groups. The early and late osteoarthritis and treatment groups underwent anterior cruciate ligament transection. The remaining groups underwent sham operations with knee joint exposure. The early and late treatment groups were exposed to low‐intensity pulsed US 4 and 8 weeks after surgery. After 6 weeks of US exposure, pathologic changes on the articular surface of the femoral condyle were assessed by modified Mankin scores. Expression of type II collagen, matrix metalloproteinase, integrin β1, phosphorylated FAK, and MAPKs (including extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2, MAPK 38, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase) was assessed by Western blot analysis.

Results

Cartilage damage was less severe in the early treatment group than the early osteoarthritis group. The Mankin score was significantly lower in the early treatment group than the early osteoarthritis group (P < .05). There was no significant difference in cartilage damage or Mankin score between the late treatment and late osteoarthritis groups. There was a significant increase in type II collagen expression but a significant decrease in matrix metalloproteinase 13 expression in the early treatment group compared to the early osteoarthritis group, whereas no significant difference was found between the late treatment and late osteoarthritis groups. Integrin β1 and phosphorylated FAK expression was significantly higher, and phosphorylated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and phosphorylated MAPK 38 expression was significantly lower in the early treatment group than the early osteoarthritis group.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that low‐intensity pulsed US protects cartilage from damage in early‐stage osteoarthritis via the integrin/FAK/MAPK pathway.
Effects of Needle and Catheter Size on Commercially Available Ultrasound Contrast Agents
Authors: Eisenbrey John R. , Daecher Annemarie , Kramer Michael R. , Forsberg Flemming
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To investigate effects of needle and catheter size on in vitro ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) enhancement and concentrations using 4 commercially available UCAs.

Methods

Definity (Lantheus Medical Imaging, North Billerica, MA), Optison (GE Healthcare, Princeton, NJ), SonoVue (Bracco SA, Geneva, Switzerland), and Sonazoid (GE Healthcare, Oslo, Norway) were investigated. The UCA was injected via a 1‐mL syringe (BD, Franklin Lakes, NJ) into a 3‐way stopcock (Smith Medical, Dublin, OH) and flushed with 10 mL of saline through an 18‐cm infusion extension tube connected to either a 16‐, 18‐, 20‐, 22‐, or 24‐gauge catheter (BD) or an 18‐, 20‐, 21‐, or 25‐gauge needle (BD). In vitro enhancement was determined in a flow phantom (ATS Laboratories, Bridgeport, CT), and microbubble concentrations were determined using an LSRII flow cytometer (BD Biosciences, San Jose, CA).

Results

Significant decreases in enhancement and microbubble concentrations were observed for all 4 UCAs (P < .001) when administration was performed through a 25‐gauge needle. No statistically significant differences in enhancement or concentrations were observed between all catheter sizes and 18‐ to 21‐gauge needles for SonoVue and Sonazoid. Definity and Optison administration through a 24‐gauge catheter resulted in a significant loss of enhancement (P < .02), although these differences were not significant on flow cytometry.

Conclusions

Administration of commercial UCAs in a clinical scenario is possible with catheters or needles smaller than 20 gauge, although the minimal allowable size appears to be UCA specific.
Reliability of Doppler Assessment of the Middle Cerebral Artery in the Near and Far Fields in Healthy and Anemic Fetuses
Authors: Salvi Silvia , Badade Anirudh , Khatal Kalpesh , Bhide Amar
Published: October 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability of the middle cerebral artery pulsatility index (PI) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) at the proximal portions of the near‐ and far‐field vessel sites in healthy and anemic fetuses.

Methods

The middle cerebral artery PSV and PI were prospectively assessed in 50 normal singleton pregnancies. The Doppler waveforms for the middle cerebral artery PI and the PSV were recorded independently by 2 operators at the most proximal portions of the near‐ and far‐field sites. Data for the PSV and PI at the proximal portions of both the near‐ and the far‐field sites were also retrospectively collected in 7 anemic fetuses.

Results

No significant difference between the operators was detected for the middle cerebral artery PSV (P = .60) and PI (P = .88) measured in the conventionally used near‐field proximal site in the 50 healthy fetuses. No significant difference between the proximal portions of the near‐ and far‐field sites was detected for the PSV (P = .53) and PI (P = .23) in healthy or anemic fetuses.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that the use of the far‐field vessel is an acceptable alternative for measurement of the middle cerebral artery PI and PSV when investigation of the near‐field vessel is technically difficult.
Central Venous Catheterization
Authors: Adhikari Srikar , Theodoro Daniel , Raio Christopher , Nelson Mathew , Lyon Matthew , Leech Stephen , Akhtar Saadia , Stolz Uwe
Published: October 2015

Objectives

To assess the self‐reported frequency of use of ultrasound guidance for central venous catheterization by emergency medicine (EM) residents, describe residents' perceptions regarding the use of ultrasound guidance, and identify barriers to the use of ultrasound guidance.

Methods

A longitudinal cross‐sectional study was conducted at 5 academic institutions. A questionnaire on the use of ultrasound guidance for central venous catheterization was initially administered to EM residents in 2007. The same questionnaire was distributed again in the 5 EM residency programs in 2013.

Results

In 2007 and 2013, 147 and 131 residents completed questionnaires, respectively. A significant increase in the use of ultrasound guidance for central venous catheterization was reported in 2013 compared to 2007 (P< .001). In 2007, 53% (95% confidence interval, 44%–61%) of residents reported that they were initially trained in central venous catheterization using ultrasound guidance compared to 96% (95% confidence interval, 92%–99%) in 2013 (P < .0001). In 2007, more residents thought that faculty were insufficiently adopting ultrasound (42% versus 9%), and there was a lack of ultrasound teaching during residency training (14% versus 5%) compared to 2013.

Conclusions

The use of self‐reported ultrasound guidance for central venous catheterization significantly increased from 2007 to 2013 at academic institutions. Most residents were aware of the benefits of using ultrasound guidance. Although faculty adoption of ultrasound for central venous catheterization remains a barrier, it has decreased.
Influence of wave normal angles on hiss‐electron interaction in Earth's slot region
Authors: Gao Yuzhu , Xiao Fuliang , Yan Qi , Yang Chang , Liu Si , He Yihua , Zhou Qinghua
Published: October 2015

Wave‐particle interaction which occurs in the radiation belts is generally determined by variations in wave normal angles. Using the Gaussian wave normal angle (
) distribution, we study the influence of peak wave normal angle (
) on gyroresonance between plasmaspheric hiss waves and energetic electrons in the slot regions L = 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5. The bounce‐averaged diffusion coefficients are calculated for different Xm = 0,1,3,5, and then the phase space density (PSD) evolutions of energetic electrons driven by hiss waves are simulated over a continuous energy range 0.2–5 MeV. As Xm increases, diffusion coefficients basically decrease mainly from the medium to a critical pitch angle αc for Ek≤1.0 MeV but increase at lower pitch angles for Ek>1.0 MeV. Differences of diffusion coefficients between Xm = 0 and 1 are close but become substantial as Xm≥3. Hiss can cause substantial drops in electron PSDs for Ek≤0.5 MeV and Xm≤1 from the loss cone αL to αc. For Ek≥1.0 MeV, such PSD drops become much smaller and confined in the lower pitch angles close to αL for each Xm. In contrast, electron PSD increases for Ek≤1.0 MeV above αc at L = 2.5 and 3.0, probably because momentum diffusion coefficients increase steeply above αc. The current results demonstrate that gyroresonance between plasmaspheric hiss and energetic electrons in the slot region is strongly associated with variations of peak wave normal angles, which should be integrated into future global modeling of radiation belt dynamics.
Experimental evidence of statistical ensemble behavior in bed load sediment transport
Authors: Fathel Siobhan L. , Furbish David Jon , Schmeeckle Mark W.
Published: October 2015

A high‐resolution data set obtained from high‐speed imaging of coarse sand particles transported as bed load allows us to confidently describe the forms and qualities of the ensemble distributions of particle velocities, accelerations, hop distances, and traveltimes. Autocorrelation functions of frame‐averaged values (and the decay of these functions) support the idea that the forms of these distributions become time invariant within the 5 s imaging interval. Distributions of streamwise and cross‐stream particle velocities are exponential, consistent with previous experiments and theory. Importantly, streamwise particle velocities possess a “light” tail, where the largest velocities are limited by near‐bed fluid velocities. Distributions of streamwise and cross‐stream particle accelerations are Laplace in form and are centered on zero, consistent with equilibrium transport conditions. The majority of particle hops, measured start to stop, involve short displacements, and streamwise hop distances possess a Weibull distribution. In contrast to previous work, the distribution of traveltimes is exponential, consistent with a fixed temporal disentrainment rate. The Weibull distribution of hop distances is consistent with a decreasing spatial disentrainment rate and is related to the exponential distribution of traveltimes. By taking into account the effects of experimental censorship associated with a finite sampling window, the relationship between streamwise hop distances and traveltimes,
, likely involves an exponent of α ∼ 2. These experimental results—an exponential distribution of traveltimes Tp and a Weibull distribution of hop distances Lx with shape parameter k < 1—are consistent with a nonlinear relationship between these quantities with α > 1.
A Shameless Pitch for Quantitative Marketing
Authors: Richards Dr. Timothy J.
Published: October 2015

At least half of the food sold in the United States is sold through some form of retail outlet. Understanding retail demand, therefore, is critical to understanding some of the most important issues facing U.S. agribusinesses today. Retail demand models, however, are fundamentally different from the commodity demand models used extensively in the agribusiness literature. In this letter, I outline the features of retailing, and their implications for modeling the retail demand for food.
Myeloproliferative neoplasms: A decade of discoveries and treatment advances
Authors: Tefferi Ayalew
Published: October 2015

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are clonal stem cell diseases, first conceptualized in 1951 by William Dameshek, and historically included chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). In 1960, Nowell and Hungerford discovered an invariable association between the Philadelphia chromosome (subsequently shown to harbor the causalBCR‐ABL1mutation) and CML; accordingly, the term MPN is primarily reserved for PV, ET, and PMF, although it includes other related clinicopathologic entities, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification system. In 2005, William Vainchenker and others described a Janus kinase 2 mutation (JAK2V617F) in MPN and this was followed by a series of additional descriptions of mutations that directly or indirectly activate JAK‐STAT:JAK2exon 12, myeloproliferative leukemia virus oncogene (MPL) and calreticulin (CALR) mutations. The discovery of these, mostly mutually exclusive, “driver” mutations has contributed to revisions of the WHO diagnostic criteria and risk stratification in MPN. Mutations other thanJAK2,CALRandMPLhave also been described in MPN and shown to provide additional prognostic information. From the standpoint of treatment, over the last 50 years, Louis Wasserman from the Unites States and Tiziano Barbui from Italy had skillfully organized and led a number of important clinical trials, whose results form the basis for current treatment strategies in MPN. More recently, allogeneic stem cell transplant, as a potentially curative treatment modality, and JAK inhibitors, as palliative drugs, have been added to the overall therapeutic armamentarium in myelofibrosis. In the current review, I will summarize the important advances made in the last 10 years regarding the science and practice of MPN. Am. J. Hematol. 91:50–58, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factor VLeiden
Authors: Van Cott Elizabeth M. , Khor Bernard , Zehnder James L.
Published: October 2015

Factor V Leiden (FVLeiden) is a common hereditary thrombophilia that causes activated protein C (APC) resistance. This review describes many of the most fascinating features of FVLeiden, including background features, mechanisms of hypercoagulability, the founder mutation concept, the “FVLeiden paradox,” synergistic interaction with other thrombotic risk factors, the intertwined relationship between FVLeiden and APC resistance testing, and other, uncommon mutations implicated in causing APC resistance. In addition, there are several conditions where laboratory tests for APC resistance and FVLeiden are or can be discrepant, including lupus anticoagulants, anticoagulants such as direct thrombin inhibitors (dabigatran, argatroban, and bivalirudin) and rivaroxaban, as well as pseudohomozygous, pseudo‐wildtype, liver transplant, and bone marrow transplant patients. The laboratory test error rate for FVLeiden is also presented. Am. J. Hematol. 91:46–49, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.