bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Location and Agglomeration
Authors: Sevtsuk Andres
Published: October 2014

This article analyzes location patterns of retail and food establishments, whose presence constitutes an important aspect of livable and walkable neighborhoods. Using approximately fourteen thousand buildings on the street network of Cambridge and Somerville, Massachusetts, as units of analysis, this article tests five hypotheses about retail locations found in previous literature and estimates the impacts of different location characteristics for all retail and food-service establishment as a group and for different store categories individually. The results describe how specific location attributes impact the probabilities of finding retailers, which can inform the planning of commercial activity clusters.
Faculty Perceptions of Expertise Among Teachers of Students With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Ruppar Andrea , Roberts Carly , Olson Amy Jo
Published: October 2014

Given recent increased attention to teacher evaluation, it is imperative to understand the expertise teachers need to educate students with severe disabilities. In this grounded theory study, the authors interviewed nine special education faculty who specialize in severe disabilities about the job-related skills and qualities exhibited by expert teachers of students with severe disabilities. The results indicate that in addition to systematic and student-centered instruction, expert teachers of students with severe disabilities are guided by a set of non-negotiable principles regarding inclusion and the dignity and value of students with severe disabilities. Implications for teacher preparation and evaluation are discussed.
Pilot and Revision of a Basal-Bolus Dosing Guideline for the Management of Hyperglycemia in Noncritically Ill Adult Patients
Authors: Fahim Germin , Davanos Evangelia , Muzykovsky Karina , Rubin Rochelle
Published: October 2014

The use of basal-bolus insulin (BBI) regimens for the treatment of inpatient hyperglycemia has become standard of care. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate a newly piloted dosing guideline and utilize the results to adjust it prior to its implementation hospital-wide. This was an institutional review board approved, prospective, and multiphase study. An interdisciplinary team was developed and created a dosing guideline, which was followed by a 3-month, single-unit pilot of the guideline in noncritically ill adult patients. The resulting data were used to revise the guideline. Forty-three patients were included. There was a significant decrease in median blood glucose (BG) with use of the guideline (219 mg/dL [162-281] vs 190 mg/dL [136-246], P < .05) in patients not utilizing it. There was also a significant increase in the number of values within the target range of 70 to 180 mg/dL (30.2% vs 41.4%, P < .05). Moreover, there was comparable hypoglycemia before and after the intervention (1.6% vs 2.4%, P = .51). Based on these results, the dosing factor used for the total daily dose of insulin was increased in certain populations. Use of a BBI dosing guideline is safe and effective in decreasing BG values in noncritically ill patients at our institution.
Natural and cultural eutrophication of Sluice Pond, Massachusetts, USA, recorded by algal and protozoan microfossils
Authors: Drljepan Matea , McCarthy Francine MG , Hubeny J Bradford
Published: October 2014

Microfossil studies from Sluice Pond, Massachusetts, identified two environmental perturbations that impacted algal and protozoan communities: (1) natural eutrophication and water column mixing driven by the mid-Holocene drought and (2) cultural eutrophication, increasing bottom water anoxia, and toxicity accompanying human settlement. SP09 KC2 from the deep basin of this partially meromictic pond has an abundant and diverse record of dinoflagellate cysts spanning 11,400 years. Bottom water anoxia appears to have prevented benthic protozoans from colonizing until lake levels fell throughout New England during the mid-Holocene drought. Lower lake levels allowed mixing of the water column and a thecamoebian fauna rich in centropyxids, Pontigulasia compressa, and Difflugia oblonga to flourish in SP09 KC2. This lowstand is marked by an unconformity spanning the mid-Holocene hemlock minimum (5400–3500 cal. BP) in SP07 PC4 and by an increase in nutrients in the water column allowing mesotrophic–eutrophic dinoflagellate taxa ( Peridinium cf. gatunense and Peridinium willei) to increase at the expense of Peridinium wisconsinense. Rising lake levels in response to the warm, wet climate are recorded by increasing abundances of protozoa tolerant of lower dissolved oxygen (DO) throughout Sluice Pond ~2200 cal. BP – the thecamoebians Arcella vulgaris, Difflugia protaeiformis, and Cucurbitella tricuspis and the ciliate Codonella cratera. Subsequent decline in lake level associated with late Holocene aridity allowed a diverse thecamoebian community to thrive until around 300 years ago when a more intense phase of eutrophication resulted from human impact. Bottom water anoxia due to enhanced biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is recorded by the dominance of C. tricuspis in sediments rich in ragweed pollen and other weedy plants. Peak cyst concentrations in this interval in SP07 PC4 reflect cultural eutrophication leading to high primary productivity and low DO, promoting cyst preservation. Low microfossil concentrations in the surface sediments are attributed to low DO and toxicity.
Career Choice and Calling
Authors: Kaminsky Samuel E. , Behrend Tara S.
Published: October 2014

This study examines the extent to which a sense of calling affects career choice attitudes. Drawing from social cognitive career theory, the study tested the extent to which calling is related to career outcome expectations, interests, and goals. Participants were asked to identify a job that they wanted to perform and completed a questionnaire assessing their attitudes toward the career. We conducted structural equation modeling analyses to test our hypotheses. The results suggest that calling provides unique predictive power beyond self-efficacy for career outcome expectations, interests, and goals. Calling was a stronger predictor than self-efficacy of outcome expectations and interests, but a weaker predictor than self-efficacy of goals. Calling moderated self-efficacy such that self-efficacy was less predictive of outcome expectations when calling was high. The study improves our understanding of career choice attitudes and provides an improved framework for practitioners to draw on when mentoring students or developing career support programs for science, technology, engineering, or math education.
Evaluation of Risk Factors for Rectus Sheath Hematoma
Authors: Sheth Heena S. , Kumar Rohit , DiNella Jeannine , Janov Cheryl , Kaldas Hoda , Smith Roy E.
Published: October 2014

Rectus sheath hematoma (RSH) develops due to rupture of epigastric arteries or the rectus muscle. Although RSH incidence rate is low, it poses a significant diagnostic dilemma. We evaluated the risk factors for RSH, its presentation, management, and outcomes for 115 patients hospitalized with confirmed RSH by computed tomography scan between January 2005 and June 2009. More than three-fourth (77.4%) of the patients were on anticoagulation therapy, 58.3% patients had chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage ≥3, 51.3% had abdominal injections, 41.7% were on steroids/immunosuppressant therapy, 37.4% had abdominal surgery/trauma, 33.9% had cough, femoral puncture was performed in 31.3% of patients, and 29.5% were on antiplatelet therapy. Rectus sheath hematoma was not an attributable cause in any of the 17 deaths. Mortality was significantly higher in patients with CKD stage ≥3 ( P = .03) or who required transfusion ( P = .007). Better understanding of RSH risk factors will facilitate early diagnoses and improve management.
Circadian Rhythms in Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine
Authors: Brainard Jason , Gobel Merit , Bartels Karsten , Scott Benjamin , Koeppen Michael , Eckle Tobias
Published: October 2014

The rotation of the earth and associated alternating cycles of light and dark—the basis of our circadian rhythms—are fundamental to human biology and culture. However, it was not until 1971 that researchers first began to describe the molecular mechanisms for the circadian system. During the past few years, groundbreaking research has revealed a multitude of circadian genes affecting a variety of clinical diseases, including diabetes, obesity, sepsis, cardiac ischemia, and sudden cardiac death. Anesthesiologists, in the operating room and intensive care units, manage these diseases on a daily basis as they significantly affect patient outcomes. Intriguingly, sedatives, anesthetics, and the intensive care unit environment have all been shown to disrupt the circadian system in patients. In the current review, we will discuss how newly acquired knowledge of circadian rhythms could lead to changes in clinical practice and new therapeutic concepts.
Exploring the psychological impact of Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome on young women: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Patterson Carolyn J , Crawford Rebecca , Jahoda Andrew
Published: October 2014

This study explored five young women’s experiences of living with Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser to offer a unique insight into the social challenges of Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser in the transition to adulthood. Non-directive semi-structured interviews took place within the National Health Service settings, and transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four inter-related themes were identified: hindering independence, a sensitivity to difference, managing intimacy and managing threat to identity. The women managed their presentation to others in order to minimise the impact of their diagnosis. Recommendations for further research and implications for services are noted.
Modeling the impact of early exhaust valve opening on exhaust aftertreatment thermal management and efficiency for compression ignition engines
Authors: Roberts Leighton , Magee Mark , Shaver Gregory , Garg Akash , McCarthy James , Koeberlein Edward , Holloway Eric , Shute Raymond , Koeberlein David , Nielsen Douglas
Published: October 2014

In response to strict emissions regulations, engine manufacturers have implemented aftertreatment technologies to reduce the tailpipe emissions from diesel engines. The effectiveness of most of these systems is limited when exhaust temperatures are below 250°C. This is problematic during cold start and at low-load engine operation when the exhaust gas temperature is too low to keep the aftertreatment working effectively. The implementation of variable valve actuation strategies, including early exhaust valve opening, has been proposed as a means to elevate exhaust temperatures. Early exhaust valve opening results in hotter exhaust gas; however, more fueling is needed to maintain brake power output. This article outlines an analysis of the impact of early exhaust valve opening on exhaust temperature (measured at the turbine outlet) and the required fueling. An experimentally validated model is developed, which relates fueling increase with the timing of exhaust valve opening. This model is used to generate expressions for brake thermal efficiency and turbine out temperature as a function of exhaust valve opening. These expressions are used to evaluate the impact of early exhaust valve opening over the entire low-load operating space of a diesel engine. The model predicts an approximate 30 °C–100 °C increase in turbine out temperature at a given commanded exhaust valve opening of 90° before nominal, which is sufficient to raise many low-load operating conditions to exhaust temperatures above 250 °C; however, the analysis also predicts penalties in brake thermal efficiency as large as 0.05 points.
A review of the application of variable geometry turbines to the downsized gasoline engine
Authors: Tang Huayin , Pennycott Andrew , Akehurst Sam , Brace Chris J
Published: October 2014

Engine downsizing through turbocharging is a proven method of improving fuel economy by using a smaller engine operating at higher levels of specific engine load and higher efficiency. Turbocharging is more challenging for the gasoline engine than the diesel engine due to the higher variability in the flow rate of air and the higher exhaust gas temperature. Although the variable geometry turbine offers the potential for improving the low-end torque, lowering part-load fuel consumption and delivering a fast transient response on a downsized gasoline engine, the cost, durability and the limited allowable turbine inlet temperature on the currently available devices present challenges to widespread application. This article details the main operating principles and types of the variable geometry turbine, its potential to deliver performance improvements, implementation challenges on the gasoline engine and the measures available to alleviate those challenges. Of the available types of variable geometry turbine, the variable nozzle form has the highest efficiency over a wide flow range while the variable flow and sliding wall types have better reliability and lower cost. Using additional technologies such as the water-cooled exhaust manifold, specialist turbocharger materials, exhaust gas recirculation and novel combustion systems in combination with advanced control strategies will facilitate variable geometry turbine application and hence allow further downsizing of the gasoline engine.
Isolation and characterization of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells in nasal polyps
Authors: Cho Jung-Sun , Park Joo-Hoo , Kang Ju-Hyung , Kim Sung Eun , Park Il-Ho , Lee Heung-Man
Published: October 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent progenitor cells in adult tissues. This study aimed to investigate nasal polyp (NP) tissues as a potential new source of multipotent MSCs that maintain their stemness and differentiation potential following multiple rounds of passaging. NP tissues were obtained from 10 patients during endoscopic sinus surgery. After isolating and culturing NP-derived MSCs (npMSCs), the expression levels of the surface markers CD34, CD44, CD45, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD106, CD146 and human leukocyte antigens-class II DR antigen (HLA-DR) were estimated by flow cytometry. NpMSCs were cultured in chondrogenic, osteogenic, adipogenic, or neurogenic differentiation medium. The differentiation potential of npMSCs was analyzed by Alcian blue, alizarin red S, oil red O, and immunocytochemical staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The clonogenic potential of npMSCs was measured using a colony-forming unit assay. Cell proliferation of npMSCs was measured using the 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that npMSCs were negative for hematopoietic lineage markers (CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR) and positive for MSC markers (CD44, CD73, CD90, and CD105). The npMSCs differentiated into osteogenic, adipogenic, chondrogenic, and neurogenic lineages, respectively. Chondrogenically differentiated npMSCs were stained with Alcian blue, osteogenically differentiated npMSCs were stained with alizarin red S, and adipogenically differentiated npMSCs were stained with oil red O. Real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed that the differentiated npMSCs expressed the respective differentiation markers ( Sox 9 and Col2A for chondrogenesis, Runx2 and osteocalcin for osteogenesis, fatty acid-binding protein 4 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ for adipogenesis, TuJ1, neurofilament light chain, and neurofilament heavy chain for neurogenesis). There were no significant differences in the clonogenic potential and proliferation rate between early and late passage npMSCs. These results show that npMSCs possess the characteristics of MSCs in terms of morphology, multipotent differentiation capacity, cell surface marker expression, and clonogenicity. Thus, npMSCs may represent an alternative source of MSCs.
We Built That
Authors: Hamilton Proverbs Theresa
Published: October 2014

The construction of the Tamiami Trail was an epic feat of engineering and it enabled the development of South Florida. But historical accounts ignore routinely its rival, the Cross State Highway. A study of this rivalry reveals the consequences of the contest for Dixie Highway routes as well as the marginalization of middle-class stakeholders by the corporate landowners who dominated the area and their use of marketing techniques to stage manage this process. This highway competition, against the backdrop of the Land Boom of the 1920s, also documents a shift in identity and power in Southwest Florida.
Transumbilical Thoracoscopy Versus Conventional Thoracoscopy for Lung Wedge Resection
Authors: Chen Tzu-Ping , Yen-Chu  , Wu Yi-Cheng , Yeh Chi-Ju , Liu Chien-Ying , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yuan Hsu-Chia , Ko Po-Jen , Liu Yun-Hen
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Transumbilical single-port surgery has been associated with less postoperative pain and offers better cosmetic outcomes than conventional 3-port laparoscopic surgery. This study compares the safety and efficacy of transumbilical thoracoscopy and conventional thoracoscopy for lung wedge resection. Methods. The animals (n = 16) were randomly assigned to the transumbilical thoracoscopic approach group (n = 8) or conventional thoracoscopic approach group (n = 8). Transumbilical lung resection was performed via an umbilical incision and a diaphragmatic incision. In the conventional thoracoscopic group, lung resection was completed through a thoracic incision. For both procedures, we compared the surgical outcomes, for example, operating time and operative complications; physiologic parameters, for example, respiratory rate and body temperature; inflammatory parameters, for example, white blood cell count; and pulmonary parameters, for example, arterial blood gas levels. The animals were euthanized 2 weeks after the surgery for gross and histologic evaluations. Results. The lung wedge resection was successfully performed in all animals. There was no significant difference in the mean operating times or complications between the transumbilical and the conventional thoracoscopic approach groups. With regard to the physiologic impact of the surgeries, the transumbilical approach was associated with significant elevations in body temperature on postoperative day 1, when compared with the standard thoracoscopic approach. Conclusions. This study suggests that both approaches for performing lung wedge resection were comparable in efficacy and postoperative complications.
Gastric Supply Manipulation to Modulate Ghrelin Production and Enhance Vascularization to the Cardia
Authors: Diana Michele , Halvax Peter , Pop Raoul , Schlagowski Isabel , Bour Gaetan , Liu Yu-Yin , Legner Andras , Diemunsch Pierre , Geny Bernard , Dallemagne Bernard , Beaujeux Rémy , Demartines Nicolas , Marescaux Jacques
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Selective embolization of the left-gastric artery (LGA) reduces levels of ghrelin and achieves significant short-term weight loss. However, embolization of the LGA would prevent the performance of bariatric procedures because the high-risk leakage area (gastroesophageal junction [GEJ]) would be devascularized. Aim. To assess an alternative vascular approach to the modulation of ghrelin levels and generate a blood flow manipulation, consequently increasing the vascular supply to the GEJ. Materials and methods. A total of 6 pigs underwent a laparoscopic clipping of the left gastroepiploic artery. Preoperative and postoperative CT angiographies were performed. Ghrelin levels were assessed perioperatively and then once per week for 3 weeks. Reactive oxygen species (ROS; expressed as ROS/mg of dry weight [DW]), mitochondria respiratory rate, and capillary lactates were assessed before and 1 hour after clipping (T0 and T1) and after 3 weeks of survival (T2), on seromuscular biopsies. A celiac trunk angiography was performed at 3 weeks. Results. Mean (±standard deviation) ghrelin levels were significantly reduced 1 hour after clipping (1902 ± 307.8 pg/mL vs 1084 ± 680.0; P = .04) and at 3 weeks (954.5 ± 473.2 pg/mL; P = .01). Mean ROS levels were statistically significantly decreased at the cardia at T2 when compared with T0 (0.018 ± 0.006 mg/DW vs 0.02957 ± 0.0096 mg/DW; P = .01) and T1 (0.0376 ± 0.008mg/DW; P = .007). Capillary lactates were significantly decreased after 3 weeks, and the mitochondria respiratory rate remained constant over time at the cardia and pylorus, showing significant regional differences. Conclusions. Manipulation of the gastric flow targeting the gastroepiploic arcade induces ghrelin reduction. An endovascular approach is currently under evaluation.
Perceptions of Men With Moderate to Severe Hemophilia Regarding the Management of Their Chronic Disorder and Utilization of Community-Based Support
Authors: Rolstad Erik B.
Published: October 2014

Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder that almost exclusively affects men. There is a nationwide network of nonprofit organizations providing support to men with hemophilia, which are affiliated with localized agencies that serve affected individuals within specific regions of the country. This community-based study was implemented in response to a local Utah agency’s concern that men with hemophilia may be disengaged from and underserved by their local support network. The goal of the study was to gain a better understanding of the (a) unique challenges, (b) adaptations, and (c) physical, financial, psychological, and social needs of adult men with moderate to severe hemophilia from the local community. Over a period of 9 months, verbal qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 affected individuals, and written interviews were obtained from 3 additional participants. Using a grounded-theory approach, six themes were identified, based on men’s commentary from interviews, across a spectrum of physical, social, communal, personal, medical, and vocational dimensions. Resilience theory, which explores internal resources that assist in coping with adverse situations, was used as a framework for interpreting research results. Findings indicate that men value the array of educational, social, and medical services that are available to them but choose to manage their hemophilia independently from the community and access support according to their individual needs. Understanding this dynamic may be helpful in developing services that are more specifically tailored to the physical and psychosocial needs of adult men with hemophilia and, potentially, men with other chronic health disorders.
An update on the efficacy of oral corticosteroids in the treatment of wheezing episodes in preschool children
Authors: Collins Andrew D. , Beigelman Avraham
Published: October 2014

Traditionally, oral corticosteroids (OCSs) have been the mainstay of treatment for acute wheezing episodes among preschool children with a history of recurrent wheezing. Although there is substantial evidence for the efficacy of OCSs as a treatment for asthma exacerbations in school-aged children and adolescents, recent clinical studies questioned the benefits of OCSs as a treatment for acute wheezing in preschool children. This review summarizes the current evidence on the efficacy of OCSs as a treatment for acute wheezing episodes among preschool age children with episodic wheezing, focusing on studies performed in three different settings: OCS treatment initiated by parents in the outpatient setting, OCS treatment initiated in the emergency department (ED), and OCS treatment among hospitalized preschool children. The results of most studies reviewed in this paper do not support the efficacy of OCS treatment among preschool children with recurrent wheezing. The heterogeneity of early childhood wheezing and asthma might be part of the explanation for lack of efficacy of this intervention noted in multiple studies.
Multiple sclerosis: symptoms and diagnosis
Authors: Cosh Ayla , Carslaw Helen
Published: October 2014

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that is characterised by discrete areas of demyelination and axon injury associated with inflammatory activity. One of the key defining features of MS is that the lesions are disseminated in both space and time; that is, they occur at more than one site and develop on more than one occasion. The aim of this article is to give an overview of MS the disease, symptoms that may present, and the controversies regarding diagnosis and potential mis-diagnosis.
Directed differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells into chondrogenic lineages for articular cartilage treatment
Authors: Lach Michał , Trzeciak Tomasz , Richter Magdalena , Pawlicz Jarosław , Suchorska Wiktoria M
Published: October 2014

In recent years, increases in the number of articular cartilage injuries caused by environmental factors or pathological conditions have led to a notable rise in the incidence of premature osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis, considered a disease of civilization, is the leading cause of disability. At present, standard methods for treating damaged articular cartilage, including autologous chondrocyte implantation or microfracture, are short-term solutions with important side effects. Emerging treatments include the use of induced pluripotent stem cells, a technique that could provide a new tool for treatment of joint damage. However, research in this area is still early, and no optimal protocol for transforming induced pluripotent stem cells into chondrocytes has yet been established. Developments in our understanding of cartilage developmental biology, together with the use of modern technologies in the field of tissue engineering, provide an opportunity to create a complete functional model of articular cartilage.
Curing myeloma at last: defining criteria and providing the evidence
Authors: Barlogie Bart , Mitchell Alan , van Rhee Frits , Epstein Joshua , Morgan Gareth J. , Crowley John
Published: October 2014

Does the dogma that multiple myeloma is incurable still hold?. The genomic chaos and resulting resistance to apoptosis of myeloma, long considered an obstacle to cure, formed the basis of Total Therapy (TT) program. The TT approach uses all myeloma-active drugs upfront to target drug-resistant subclones during initial treatment to prevent later relapse. Long-term follow-up of 1202 patients (TT1: n = 231, median follow-up: 21 years; TT2: 668, median follow-up: 12 years; TT3a: n = 303, median follow-up: 9 years) permitted investigation of whether progression-free survival (PFS) and complete response (CR) duration were consistent with curability, ie observation of plateaus in Kaplan-Meier plots for PFS and CR duration. In the subset of 627 patients with plasma cell gene expression profiling data, cure plateaus were apparent at 5 years in the 14% with high-risk myeloma compared with 10 years in the remainder with low-risk disease. A parametric model based on PFS and CR duration supported an increase in curability: 10-year PFS and CR estimates increased from 8.8%/17.9% in TT1 to 15.5%/28.2% in TT2’s control arm to 25.1%/35.6% in TT2’s thalidomide arm and to 32.9%/48.8% in TT3a. Toward developing novel therapies, we recommend a concerted focus on patients with high-risk myeloma whose outcome has not been advanced.
Sequential intranodal immunotherapy induces antitumor immunity and correlated regression of disseminated follicular lymphoma
Authors: Kolstad Arne , Kumari Shraddha , Walczak Mateusz , Madsbu Ulf , Hagtvedt Trond , Bogsrud Trond Velde , Kvalheim Gunnar , Holte Harald , Aurlien Ellen , Delabie Jan , Tierens Anne , Olweus Johanna
Published: October 2014

Key Points

Local immunotherapy induced systemic responses in patients with disseminated FL. Clinical responses correlated with systemic antitumor T-cell immunity.
Facile synthesis of folate-conjugated magnetic/fluorescent bifunctional microspheres
Authors: Shen Mao , Jia Wenping , Lin Caiping , Fan Guodong , Jin Yangmin , Chen Xiaoying , Chen Guang
Published: October 2014

In this paper, we investigated the functional imaging properties of magnetic microspheres composed of magnetic core and CdTe quantum dots in the silica shell functionalized with folic acid (FA). The preparation procedure included the preparation of chitosan-coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles (CS-coated Fe3O4 NPs) prepared by a one-pot solvothermal method, the reaction between carboxylic and amino groups under activation of NHS and EDC in order to obtain the CdTe-CS-coated Fe3O4 NPs, and finally the growth of SiO2 shell vent the photoluminescence (PL) quenching via a Stöber method (Fe3O4-CdTe@SiO2). Moreover, in order to have a specific targeting capacity, the magnetic and fluorescent bifunctional microspheres were synthesized by bonding of SiO2 shell with FA molecules via amide reaction (Fe3O4-CdTe@SiO2-FA). The morphology, size, chemical components, and magnetic property of as-prepared composite nanoparticles were characterized by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, fluorescent spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning transmission electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), respectively. The results show that the magnetic and fluorescent bifunctional microspheres have strong luminescent which will be employed for immuno-labeling and fluorescent imaging of HeLa cells.
New Zealand consumers’ perceptions of private insurance for pharmaceuticals
Authors: Ragupathy Rajan , Babar Zaheer-ud-Din , Mirza Wasif , Daiya Mitali , Chandra Himesh , Yousif Ali , Girn Maninder
Published: October 2014

Private insurance plays a minor role in paying for pharmaceuticals in New Zealand, despite controversy about access through the public health system. The present study examines New Zealand consumers’ perceptions of private insurance for pharmaceuticals. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 433 consumers at thirty pharmacies. The questionnaire included 18 questions on demographics, insurance status, perceptions of private insurance for pharmaceuticals and confidence in the public health system. Forty six percent of respondents had private health insurance. Respondents were more likely to have private health insurance as household income increased, and confidence in the public health system decreased. (Over two thirds of respondents were either confident or very confident in the public health system). Nineteen percent had private health insurance for pharmaceuticals, and the likelihood was not affected by household income or confidence in the public health system. Sixty one percent believed private insurance for pharmaceuticals would increase availability and affordability of pharmaceuticals. However, just over half were willing to pay for private insurance for pharmaceuticals. Of these, over two thirds were only willing to pay $20 per year or less. New Zealand pharmacy consumers’ willingness to pay for private insurance for pharmaceuticals is very low.
Virtual screening for angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides from Phascolosoma esculenta
Authors: Liu Yalan , Zhang Lujia , Guo Mingrong , Wu Hongxi , Xie Jingli , Wei Dongzhi
Published: October 2014

Background

Many short peptides have proved to exhibit potential anti-hypertensive activity through the inhibition of the Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) activity and the regulation of blood pressure. However, the traditional experimental screening method for ACE inhibitory peptides is time consuming and costly, accompanied with the limitations as incomplete hydrolysis and peptides loss during purification process. Virtual methods with the aid of computer can break such bottle-neck of experimental work. In this study, an attempt was made to establish a library of di- and tri-peptides derived from proteins of Phascolosoma esculenta, a kind of seafood, through BIOPEP (http://www.uwm.edu.pl/biochemia/index.php/pl/biopep), and to screen highly active ACE inhibitory peptides by molecular docking with the help of LibDock module of Discovery Studio 3.5 software.

Results

Two hundred and eighty four (284) di- and tri-peptides, derived from P. esculenta proteins after a virtual hydrolysis with pepsin, trypsin and a mixture of pepsin and trypsin, were predicted to possess ACE inhibitory activity, among which there are 99 ACE inhibitory peptides with estimated IC50 less than 50 μM. Nine peptides were synthesized for the comparison between the estimated and the experimentally determined IC50. The results indicated that errors between the estimated and measured log(1/IC50) are all less than 1.0 unit.

Conclusions

Virtual method for peptide library construction and ACE inhibitory peptides screening efficiently demonstrated that P. esculenta proteins are prospect resource for food-origin ACE inhibitory peptide.
Wave equation processing using finite-difference propagators, Part 2: Deghosting of marine hydrophone seismic data
Authors: Robertsson Johan O. A. , Amundsen Lasse
Published: October 2014

We have developed a new and simple method for deghosting of conventional hydrophone streamer data towed at arbitrary variable depths. The method uses a time-space domain finite-difference (FD) solution to the wave equation with pressure field boundary conditions to predict and remove ghosts. Because it operates in the time domain, our method is unaffected by any number of notches in the frequency spectrum of the data and therefore will deghost “through notches.” Apart from the acquired hydrophone data, the method relies on the depth profile of the streamer recording the data beneath a sea surface with a known reflection coefficient as well as the propagation velocity in the water above the streamer. The method was applied to simple and more complex synthetic data, which illustrated its ability to deal with complex data and any acquisition geometry.
6Cs: ‘care’ continued …
Authors: Jones Menna Lloyd , Grainger Angela , Coley Maive
Published: October 2014

Following our major focus on care in September's issue of BJHCA, three of our board members give their own personal vision …
The role of the HCA in sexual health services
Authors: Meek James , Brittain Debbie , Dunnett Kaisha
Published: October 2014

The healthcare assistant (HCA) in sexual health services has a varying role, including chaperoning, sexual history-taking, clinical skills in venepuncture or swab taking and finally pregnancy testing.

The role differs from one sexual health service to another and so does the level of training and development that the HCA receives.

This article presents a review of the literature and the future training and development opportunities available to the HCA in order to progress in a career within sexual health services.
Foundation degree, a pathway to practice, 1/2: mentors are magic
Authors: Matthews David , Bedson Lynne
Published: October 2014

Influenced by various political and economic factors, one of the defining features of the NHS over the past decade has been the growth of the healthcare support worker (HCSW). However, it is the case that official HCSW training programmes are in their infancy. This two-part article, written from the perspective of three lecturers who teach on a foundation degree in Wales to train HCSWs, seeks to illustrate what is involved and what students may expect from their time of study on a bespoke training programme, and how their role complements those of registered professionals.

In part one of this two-part article, the relationship students experience with their mentors will be explored, illustrating its significance during the training process. Following this, as the demographic evidence suggests that many HCSWs have not been in higher education previously, the nature of higher education will be illustrated, focusing specifically on those transferable skills that are relevant for both academic success and successful practice.

Part two will build upon this, demonstrating some of the more content-specific knowledge associated with the course, enabling students to both enhance already existing knowledge and to acquire more academically orientated knowledge essential for future practice.
Von Informationskompetenzschulungen zur Persönlichen Wissensstrategie: ganzheitlicher Ansatz zum lebenslangen Lernen
Authors: Wittich Anke
Published: October 2014

Hochschulbibliotheken in Deutschland wenden umfangreiche personelle Ressourcen auf, um Studierende im Studienverlauf zur Informationskompetenz zu schulen. Dennoch bleibt der Erfolg dieser Schulungen hinter den Erwartungen zurück. Im Anschluss an das Studium bewegen sich die Absolventen in organisatorischen Informationswelten. Andere Informationsressourcen erfordern ein Umdenken in der Informationsbeschaffung. Damit diese Umstellung gelingt und Informationskompetenz schon in der Studienzeit zielgerichtet aufgebaut wird, sollte der Ausgangspunkt zur Informationssuche bei der Aufgabendefinition und der Bestimmung des Informationsbedarfs liegen, worin ebenfalls der Ausgangspunkt der persönlichen Wissensstrategie im organisatorischen Kontext zu sehen ist.
Application Service Providing (ASP) für SISIS-Sunrise-Lokalsysteme im Bibliotheksverbund Bayern: ein Anwenderbericht
Authors: Karl Lothar , Pieruschka Thomas
Published: October 2014

Die Verbundzentrale des Bibliotheksverbundes Bayern bietet Bibliotheken mit SISIS-Sunrise-Lokalsystem ein Application Service Providing an. Dargestellt werden wesentliche Aspekte dieses Services aus Sicht und Erfahrung einer Anwenderbibliothek, der Universitätsbibliothek der Universität der Bundeswehr München.
Organic, Flexible, Polymer Composites for High-Temperature Piezoelectric Applications
Authors: Baur Cary , Zhou Yuan , Sipes Justin , Priya Shashank , Voit Walter
Published: October 2014

Industrial use of piezoelectric polymers is currently limited by low piezoelectric response and large performance losses at elevated operating temperatures. Leading polymers such as poly(vinylidene fluoride) and poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF-TrFE)) possess piezoelectric d
Comparative Analysis of One-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Cantilever Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters
Authors: Sharpes Nathan , Abdelkefi Abdessattar , Priya Shashank
Published: October 2014

A long-standing encumbrance in the design of low-frequency energy harvesters has been the need of substantial beam length and/or large tip mass values to reach the low resonance frequencies where significant energy can be harvested from the ambient vibration sources. This need of large length and tip mass may result in a device that is too large to be practical. The zigzag (meandering) beam structure has emerged as a solution to this problem. In this letter, we provide comparative analysis between the classical one-dimensional cantilever bimorph and the two-dimensional zigzag unimorph piezoelectric energy harvesters. The results demonstrate that depending upon the excitation frequency, the zigzag harvester is significantly better in terms of magnitude of natural frequency, harvested power, and power density, compared to the cantilever configuration. The dimensions were chosen for each design such that the zigzag structure would have 25.4×25.4 mm
Differences in use and function of verbal irony between real and fictional discourse: (mis)interpretation and irony blindness
Authors: Kapogianni Eleni
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a contrastive approach to the presence of two distinct types of verbal irony in real (natural, unscripted) versus fictional (scripted) discourse, with a special focus on irony blindness, i.e. the inability to recognize ironic utterances. Irony strategies are categorized into two general types, based on the relationship between the expressed and the intended meaning (Type 1: meaning reversal and Type 2: meaning replacement). First, the differences between these two types are discussed in terms of use, interpretation, and misinterpretation. It is found that the first type of irony strongly prevails in natural discourse, while the second type is considerably more present in fictional discourse than it is in natural discourse. At the same time, the first type of irony appears to be more at risk of misinterpretation in natural discourse, as opposed to the second type, which seems to be a safer (even though less frequently selected) option. These findings are then further analyzed in light of the discussion concerning fictional (comedic, in particular) irony blindness and the construction and role of the irony-blind characters. Interestingly, the causes of fictional irony blindness are found to correlate more strongly with the (more humorous) misinterpretation of the second type of irony.
On nonlinear mixed fractional integrodifferential equations with
nonlocal condition in Banach spaces
Authors: Kendre S. D. , Kharat V. V.
Published: October 2014

In the present paper we investigate the existence and uniqueness
of solutions of nonlinear mixed fractional integrodifferential
equations with nonlocal condition in Banach spaces. The technique
used in our analysis is based on fixed point
theorems and Pachpatte's integral inequality.
Can routine laboratory parameters predict adverse pregnancy outcomes in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy?
Authors: Oztas Efser , Erkenekli Kudret , Ozler Sibel , Ersoy Ali Ozgur , Kurt Mevlut , Oztas Erkin , Uygur Dilek , Danisman Nuri
Published: October 2014

Our aim was to investigate whether any hematological changes readily detectable by simple complete blood count (CBC), as well as fasting and postprandial total serum bile acid (SBA) levels, have diagnostic values for the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).

A prospective, case control study was carried out including 217 pregnant women (117 women with ICP and 100 healthy controls). The main outcome measures investigated were preterm delivery, APGAR scores, and neonatal unit admission. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the independent risk factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Compared with controls, women with ICP had significantly higher mean platelet volume (MPV) (mean 10.2±1.0 vs. 11.0±1.3; P<0.001) and platelet distribution width (PDW) (mean 13.1±2.3 vs. 14.7±2.8; P<0.001) values. Analysis with logistic regression revealed that the probability of preterm delivery did not increase until MPV levels exceeded 11.2 fL [odds ratio (OR)=2.68, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.13–6.32, P=0.025], and total bilirubin levels exceeded 0.6 mg/dL (OR=3.13, 95% CI=1.21–8.09, P=0.019). Considering the low APGAR scores, only increased postprandial total SBA levels of ≥51 μmol/L were found to be predictive significantly (OR=3.02, 95% CI=1.07–8.53, P=0.037).

Our study suggests that increased MPV and total bilirubin levels are associated with preterm delivery, and increased postprandial total SBA levels are predictive for low APGAR in ICP patients.
Stochastic model of the 2012 PGA Tour season
Authors: Heiny Erik L. , Heiny Robert Lowell
Published: October 2014

An absorbing Markov chain was used to model the 2012 PGA Tour Golf Season. Expected number of steps until absorption was used to establish expected scores for different locations (fairway, primary rough, green, etc.) and distances from the hole. Strokes gained analysis was then performed to evaluate the quality of each shot hit by players on the 2012 PGA Tour. Skill rankings were developed, tradeoffs between distance and accuracy were assessed, and player strategy was analyzed for playing par 5s.
Ronald Coase, Firms and Markets
Authors: Priest George L.
Published: October 2014

This paper will attempt to explain how Coase, from his earliest important paper, “The Nature of the Firm,” transformed his interest from firm organization, determined by transaction costs, to the influence of firm choices and individual choices – collectively, the market – on the allocation of resources, including on the efforts of governmental organizations to allocate resources. Over time, less interested in firm organization, Coase directed his work to showing how the market would invariably dominate the government with respect to the allocation of resources, limited by transaction costs. The paper will attempt to show, however, in contrast to widespread views, that there is little link between Coase’s focus on transaction costs in “The Nature of the Firm” and his subsequent attention to those costs in “The Problem of Social Cost.” The paper will include anecdotal support: I was a student of Mr. Coase for many years.
Reactivity of a spirobis(pentagerma[1.1.1]propellane)
Authors: Lee Vladimir Ya. , Ito Yuki , Sekiguchi Akira
Published: October 2014

The specific reactivity of the tetraradicaloid derivative spirobis(pentagerma[1.1.1]propellane) toward the halogenating reagents (CCl
Child School Enrollment Decisions, Perceptions and Experiences of Conflict in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh
Authors: Badiuzzaman Muhammad , Murshed Syed Mansoob
Published: October 2014

We analyze rural household children’s school enrollment decisions in a post-conflict setting in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region of Bangladesh. The innovation of the paper lies in the fact that we employ information about current subjective perceptions regarding the possibility of violence in the future and past actual experiences of violence to explain household economic decision-making. Preferences are endogenous in line with behavioral economics. Regression results show that heightened subjective perceptions of future violence and past actual experiences of conflict can increase child enrollment.
Sparse Coding and Lateral Inhibition Arising from Balanced and Unbalanced Dendrodendritic Excitation and Inhibition
Authors: Yu Yuguo , Migliore Michele , Hines Michael L. , Shepherd Gordon M.
Published: October 2014

The precise mechanism by which synaptic excitation and inhibition interact with each other in odor coding through the unique dendrodendritic synaptic microcircuits present in olfactory bulb is unknown. Here a scaled-up model of the mitral–granule cell network in the rodent olfactory bulb is used to analyze dendrodendritic processing of experimentally determined odor patterns. We found that the interaction between excitation and inhibition is responsible for two fundamental computational mechanisms: (1) a balanced excitation/inhibition in strongly activated mitral cells, leading to a sparse representation of odorant input, and (2) an unbalanced excitation/inhibition (inhibition dominated) in surrounding weakly activated mitral cells, leading to lateral inhibition. These results suggest how both mechanisms can carry information about the input patterns, with optimal level of synaptic excitation and inhibition producing the highest level of sparseness and decorrelation in the network response. The results suggest how the learning process, through the emergent development of these mechanisms, can enhance odor representation of olfactory bulb.