bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Inland Penetration of Atmospheric Rivers over Western North America: A Lagrangian Analysis
Authors: Rutz Jonathan J. , Steenburgh W. James , Ralph F. Martin
Published: February 2015

Although atmospheric rivers (ARs) typically weaken following landfall, those that penetrate inland can contribute to heavy precipitation and high-impact weather within the interior of western North America. In this paper, the authors examine the evolution of ARs over western North America using trajectories released at 950 and 700 hPa within cool-season ARs along the Pacific coast. These trajectories are classified as coastal decaying, inland penetrating, or interior penetrating based on whether they remain within an AR upon reaching selected transects over western North America. Interior-penetrating AR trajectories most frequently make landfall along the Oregon coast, but the greatest fraction of landfalling AR trajectories that eventually penetrate into the interior within an AR is found along the Baja Peninsula. In contrast, interior-penetrating AR trajectories rarely traverse the southern “high” Sierra. At landfall, interior-penetrating AR trajectories are associated with a more amplified flow pattern, more southwesterly (vs westerly) flow along the Pacific coast, and larger water vapor transport (qυ). The larger initial qυ of interior-penetrating AR trajectories is due primarily to larger initial water vapor q and wind speed υ for those initiated at 950 and 700 hPa, respectively.

Inland- and interior-penetrating AR trajectories maintain large qυ over the interior partially due to increases in υ that offset decreases in q, particularly in the vicinity of topographical barriers. Therefore, synoptic conditions and trajectory pathways favoring larger initial qυ at the coast, limited water vapor depletion by orographic precipitation, and increases in υ over the interior are keys to differentiating interior-penetrating from coastal-decaying ARs.
Injection molded components with functionally graded foam structures – Procedure and essential results
Authors: Heim Hans-Peter , Tromm Mike
Published: February 2015

In the past few years, foam injection molding has increasingly gained significance in the field of technical plastic components. This is due to the development of new processes and processing combinations and efforts to produce lightweight products. In this article, a special tool technology will be introduced, which aids the process of expanding the existing areas of applications. The technology enables the production of foam injection molded components with different foaming ratios. This is made possible by core movements in the closed injection mold after the cavity has been filled volumetrically with plastic melt containing blowing agent. In doing so, functionally graded components with locally differing properties can be produced in one processing step. The method (pull and foam method) is based on the idea of equipping thin-walled components with locally foamed thick-volume elements – i.e. to increase the stiffness, create spacers, or joining surfaces. Simultaneously this method aims to exceed the limitations of conventional foam injection molding, especially with regard to scope for design. This article describes the procedure and characteristics of the process. Results with regard to the density in the differentially foamed areas, the morphology and the mechanical properties in correlation with the essential processing parameters are given.
Thermal and flammable properties of rigid PUR–PIR foams obtained by using new compounds based on 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid
Authors: Liszkowska Joanna , Czupryński Bogusław , Paciorek-Sadowska Joanna , Michałowski Sławomir
Published: February 2015

Rigid polyurethane–polyisocyanurate foams were synthesized using newly obtained compounds: tris(4-hydroxybutyl) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate and tris(3-hydroxybutyl) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate. The industrial Rokopol-551 used as polyol was gradually substituted for the new compounds in the polyol premix in new foams. The authors examined the effect of those compounds on the foams' combustibility, thermal properties and changes in linear dimensions, volume and weight after 48 h of thermostating in ventilated drier at 120℃. Changes in linear dimensions, volume, or weight did not occur at all or were not substantial. A slight decrease in foams' heat conductivity can be noticed when using new polyols in comparison to the reference foam (P0). The addition of polyols to the foams affects the foams' burning process. The values of those temperatures were decreasing along with the increasing amount of the used polyols in the foams, from 661℃ (P0 reference foam, not containing new polyol), to 612℃ (P6.5 foam, containing 0.5 equivalent of tris(4-hydroxybutyl) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate] and to 643℃ [P11.5 foam, containing 0.5 equivalent of tris(3-hydroxybutyl) 2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylate).
Functional Differences in the Acinar Cells of the Murine Major Salivary Glands
Authors: Kondo Y. , Nakamoto T. , Jaramillo Y. , Choi S. , Catalan M.A. , Melvin J.E.
Published: February 2015

In humans, approximately 90% of saliva is secreted by the 3 major salivary glands: the parotid (PG), the submandibular (SMG), and the sublingual glands (SLG). Even though it is known that all 3 major salivary glands secrete saliva by a Cl--dependent mechanism, salivary secretion rates differ greatly among these glands. The goal of this study was to gain insight into the properties of the ion-transporting pathways in acinar cells that might account for the differences among the major salivary glands. Pilocarpine-induced saliva was simultaneously collected in vivo from the 3 major salivary glands of mice. When normalized by gland weight, the amount of saliva secreted by the PG was more than 2-fold larger than that obtained from the SMG and SLG. At the cellular level, carbachol induced an increase in the intracellular [Ca2+] that was more than 2-fold larger in PG and SMG than in SLG acinar cells. Carbachol-stimulated Cl- efflux and the protein levels of the Ca2+-activated Cl- channel TMEM16A, the major apical Cl- efflux pathway in salivary acinar cells, were significantly greater in PG compared with SMG and SLG. In addition, we evaluated the transporter activity of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporters (NKCC1) and anion exchangers (AE), the 2 primary basolateral Cl- uptake mechanisms in acinar cells. The SMG NKCC1 activity was about twice that of the PG and more than 12-fold greater than that of the SLG. AE activity was similar in PG and SLG, and both PG and SLG AE activity was about 2-fold larger than that of SMG. In summary, the salivation kinetics of the 3 major glands are distinct, and these differences can be explained by the unique functional properties of each gland related to Cl- movement, including the transporter activities of the Cl- uptake and efflux pathways, and intracellular Ca2+ mobilization.
Communication networks and the transnational spread of ethnic conflict
Authors: Weidmann Nils B
Published: February 2015

Theories of conflict diffusion have long argued that domestic conflict spreads from one country to others. One set of mechanisms explaining this relies on material flows across borders that incite violence in neighboring countries. Another set of mechanisms, however, relies on informational flows. Information about ongoing violence elsewhere triggers strategic learning and demonstration effects in subnational conflict actors which may increase the likelihood that these actors ultimately resort to violence. While the first set of mechanisms can be – and has been – assessed using spatial proximity to define connections between countries, this article provides a test of the second mechanism by analyzing communication flows. The article shows that the occurrence of ethnic conflict in a country’s main communication partners significantly increases the probability of domestic ethnic violence, and that this effect operates in conjunction with, and is at least as strong as, the spatial contagion effect of conflict in the geographic neighborhood.
Filtering revolution
Authors: Baum Matthew A , Zhukov Yuri M
Published: February 2015

Reporting bias – the media’s tendency to systematically underreport or overreport certain types of events – is a persistent problem for participants and observers of armed conflict. We argue that the nature of reporting bias depends on how news organizations navigate the political context in which they are based. Where government pressure on the media is limited – in democratic regimes – the scope of reporting should reflect conventional media preferences toward novel, large-scale, dramatic developments that challenge the conventional wisdom and highlight the unsustainability of the status quo. Where political constraints on reporting are more onerous – in non-democratic regimes – the more conservative preferences of the state will drive the scope of coverage, emphasizing the legitimacy and inevitability of the prevailing order. We test these propositions using new data on protest and political violence during the 2011 Libyan uprising and daily newspaper coverage of the Arab Spring from 113 countries. We uncover evidence of a status-quo media bias in non-democratic states, and a revisionist bias in democratic states. Media coverage in non-democracies underreported protests and nonviolent collective action by regime opponents, largely ignored government atrocities, and overreported those caused by rebels. We find the opposite patterns in democratic states.
Empowering activists or autocrats? The Internet in authoritarian regimes
Authors: Rød Espen Geelmuyden , Weidmann Nils B
Published: February 2015

The reported role of social media in recent popular uprisings against Arab autocrats has fueled the notion of ‘liberation technology’, namely that information and communication technology (ICT) facilitates organization of antigovernment movements in autocracies. Less optimistic observers, on the other hand, contend that ICT is a tool of repression in the hands of autocrats, imposing further restrictions on political and social liberties. We investigate whether the liberation- or the repression-technology perspective can better explain empirically observed patterns. To this end, we analyze two outcomes. First, we look at which autocracies are more likely to adopt and expand the Internet. In line with the repression technology expectation, we find that regimes aiming to prevent any independent public sphere are more likely to introduce the Internet. Second, we study the effects of the Internet on changes towards democracy. This analysis reveals no effect of the Internet on political institutions. These findings provide moderate support for the ‘repression technology’ perspective, and suggest that the Internet has not – at least in its first two decades of existence – contributed to a global shift towards democracy.
Coordination and security
Authors: Shapiro Jacob N , Siegel David A
Published: February 2015

Recent work has shown that the introduction of mobile communications can substantially alter the course of conflict. In Afghanistan and India targeting mobile communications is a central part of the insurgent campaigns. The opposite was true in Iraq. There insurgents instead threatened providers who did not do enough to maintain mobile phone networks. These differences likely arise from two competing effects of mobile communications: they make it easier for antigovernment actors to coordinate collective action, thereby increasing violence, and for pro-government civilians to collaborate with security forces allowing them to more effectively suppress rebels, thereby decreasing violence. To study these competing effects we analyze a formal model of insurgent action in which changes in the communications environment alter both (i) the ability of rebels to impose costs on civilians who cooperate with the government and (ii) the information flow to government forces seeking to suppress rebellion with military action. Our analysis highlights the importance of the threat of information sharing by non-combatants in reducing violence and offers some guidelines for policymakers in thinking about how much to support ICT development in conflict zones. In particular, we show that officials can generate reasonable expectations about whether expanding ICT access will exacerbate conflict or reduce it by assessing the relative gains to both sides from changes in ICT access along several simple dimensions.
Hospital Volume and Failure to Rescue after Head and Neck Cancer Surgery
Authors: Mulvey Carolyn L. , Pronovost Peter J. , Gourin Christine G.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To investigate the relationship between hospital volume and mortality, complications, and failure‐to‐rescue rates among patients undergoing head and neck cancer (HNCA) surgery.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

Nationwide Inpatient Sample.

Subjects and Methods

Discharge data for 159,301 patients who underwent an ablative procedure for a malignant oral cavity, laryngeal, hypopharyngeal, or oropharyngeal neoplasm from 2001 to 2010 were analyzed using cross‐tabulations and multivariate regression modeling. Failure to rescue was defined as death after a major complication, including acute myocardial infarction, acute renal failure, venous thromboembolism, pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleed, pulmonary failure, hemorrhage, or surgical site infection. We compared the incidence of mortality, major complications, and failure‐to‐rescue rates across hospital volume tertiles.

Results

The majority of hospitals performing HNCA surgery were low‐volume hospitals, which performed a mean of 6 HNCA cases per year (n = 7635). Intermediate‐volume hospitals performed a mean of 37 cases per year (n = 729), and high‐volume hospitals performed a mean of 131 cases (n = 207). High‐volume hospital care was associated with significantly decreased odds of death (odds ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.46‐0.86) and failure to rescue (odds ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.33‐0.97) compared to low‐volume hospital care. However, there was no significant difference in major complication rates between patients undergoing HNCA surgery at high‐volume hospitals and those at low‐volume hospitals.

Conclusion

Patients with HNCA who receive care at high‐volume hospitals compared with low‐volume hospitals have a 44% lower odds of mortality, which appears to be associated with differences in the response to and management of complications rather than differences in complication rates.
Developing Effective Automated Feedback in Temporal Bone Surgery Simulation
Authors: Wijewickrema Sudanthi , Piromchai Patorn , Zhou Yun , Ioannou Ioanna , Bailey James , Kennedy Gregor , O’Leary Stephen
Published: February 2015

Objective

We aim to test the effectiveness, accuracy, and usefulness of an automated feedback system in facilitating skill acquisition in virtual reality surgery.

Study Design

We evaluate the performance of the feedback system through a randomized controlled trial of 24 students allocated to feedback and nonfeedback groups.

Setting

The feedback system was based on the Melbourne University temporal bone surgery simulator. The study was conducted at the simulation laboratory of the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne.

Subjects and Methods

The study participants were medical students from the University of Melbourne, who were asked to perform virtual cortical mastoidectomy on the simulator. The extent to which the drilling behavior of the feedback and nonfeedback groups differed was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the system. Its accuracy was determined through a postexperiment observational assessment of recordings made during the experiment by an expert surgeon. Its usability was evaluated using students’ self‐reports of their impressions of the system.

Results

A Friedman’s test showed that there was a significant improvement in the drilling performance of the feedback group, χ2(1) = 14.450, P <. 001. The postexperiment assessment demonstrated that the system provided timely feedback (when trainee behavior was detected) 88.6% of the time and appropriate feedback (accurate advice) 84.2% of the time. Participants’ opinions about the usefulness of the system were highly positive.

Conclusion

The automated feedback system was observed to be effective in improving surgical technique, and the provided feedback was found to be accurate and useful.
The effect of interventions on balance self-efficacy in the stroke population: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Ada , Tao Amy , Soh Michelle , Tam Carolyn , Tan Hannah , Thompson Jessica , Eng Janice J
Published: February 2015

Objective:

To conduct a systematic review of clinical trials that examined the effectiveness of interventions on balance self-efficacy among individuals with stroke.

Design:

Systematic review.

Summary of review:

Searches of the following databases were completed in December 2014: MEDLINE (1948–present), CINAHL (1982–present), EMBASE (1980–present) and PsycINFO (1987–present) for controlled clinical trials that measured balance self-efficacy in adults with stroke. Reference lists of selected articles were hand-searched to identify further relevant studies.

Review methods:

Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and assessed the methodological quality of the studies using the Physical Therapy Evidence Database Scale. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated.

Results:

A total of 19 trials involving 729 participants used balance self-efficacy as a secondary outcome. Study quality ranged from poor ( n = 3) to good ( n = 8). In the meta-analysis of 15 trials that used intensive physical activity interventions, a moderate beneficial effect on balance self-efficacy was observed immediately following the programs (SMD 0.44, 95% CI 0.11–0.77, P = 0.009). In the studies that included follow-up assessments, there was no difference between groups across retention periods (eight studies, SMD 0.32, 95% CI −0.17–0.80, P = 0.20). In the four studies that used motor imagery interventions, there was no between-group difference in change in balance self-efficacy (fixed effects SMD 0.68, 95% CI −0.33–1.69, P = 0.18).

Conclusions:

Physical activity interventions appear to be effective in improving balance self-efficacy after stroke.
Intracellular lipid in clear cell renal cell carcinoma tumor thrombus and metastases detected by chemical shift (in and opposed phase) MRI: radiologic-pathologic correlation
Authors: Moosavi Bardia , Shabana Wael M , El-Khodary Mohamed , van der Pol Christian B , Flood Trevor A , McInnes Mathew DF , Schieda Nicola
Published: February 2015

Background

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (RRC) characteristically contain intracellular lipid which is also detectable in tumor thrombus and metastases.

Purpose

To assess the incidence of intracellular lipid in clear cell RCC metastases and tumor thrombus using chemical shift MRI.

Material and Methods

With REB approval, 33 consecutive patients with clear cell RCC and tumor thrombus/metastatic disease underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) over a 10-year period. Diagnosis was established by histopathology for tumor thrombi ( n = 25) and metastases ( n = 15) or growth for metastases ( n = 14). Two blinded radiologists independently assessed for a signal intensity (SI) drop at chemical shift MRI (indicative of intracellular lipid) and a third radiologist established consensus. Chemical shift SI (CS-SI) index ([SItumorIP – SItumorOP]/SITumorIP x 100) was calculated. Inter-observer agreement was assessed using intra-class correlation (ICC) and tests of association were performed using the Chi-square test and Spearman correlation.

Results

Using CS-MRI, intracellular lipid was detected in 36.4% of clear cell RCC, with moderate agreement, (ICC = 0.5). Intracellular lipid was detected in 20% of tumor thrombi and 20% of metastases with strong agreement (ICC = 0.73). Intracellular lipid within tumor thrombi/metastases was not associated with lipid within the primary tumor ( P = 0.09). There was a correlation in CS-SI index between primary tumor and thrombi/metastases when lipid was detected in both lesions (r = 0.91, P = 0.005); however, there was no correlation when lipid was not detected in both lesions (r = –0.09, P = 0.72).

Conclusion

The presence of intracellular lipid in tumor thrombus and metastases from clear cell RCC is uncommon and, is not necessarily associated with lipid within the primary tumor at chemical shift MRI.
Nutrition Quality Control in the Prescription and Administration of Parenteral Nutrition Therapy for Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Shiroma Glaucia Midori , Horie Lilian Mika , Castro Melina Gouveia , Martins Juliana R. , Bittencourt Amanda F. , Logullo Luciana , Teixeira da Silva Maria de Lourdes , Waitzberg Dan L.
Published: February 2015

Background: Nutrition quality control in parenteral nutrition therapy (PNT) allows the identification of inadequate processes in parenteral nutrition (PN). The objective of this study was to assess the quality of PNT at a hospital with an established nutrition support team (NST). Materials and Methods: This observational, longitudinal, analytical, and prospective study examined 100 hospitalized PNT adult patients under the care of an NST for 21 days or until death/hospital discharge. The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) 2007 guidelines for PNT prescription were followed. Results: PNT indications were not in accordance with the A.S.P.E.N. 2007 guidelines in 15 patients. Among the remaining 85 patients, 48 (56.5%) did not receive adequate PNT (≥80% of the total volume prescribed). Non‐NST medical orders, progression to and from enteral nutrition, changes in the central venous catheter, unknown causes, and operational errors (eg, medical prescription loss, PN nondelivery, pharmacy delays, inadequate PN bag temperature) were associated with PNT inadequacy (P < .005). Compared with patients who died, the discharged patients received PN volumes ≥80% on most days (P = .047). The quality indicators for nutrition therapy related to estimated energy expenditure and protein requirements and glycemia levels reached the expected targets; however, the central venous catheter infection rate was higher than 6 per 1000 catheters/d and did not meet the expected targets. Conclusion: Despite an established NST, there was a moderate level of PNT inadequacy in indications, administration, and monitoring. It is important to establish periodic meetings among different health professionals who prescribe and deliver PNT to define responsibilities and protocols.
Patriarchal Bargains and Paradoxical Emancipation: Issues in the Politics of Land Rights of Kuki Women
Authors: Sitlhou Hoineilhing
Published: February 2015

The article studies the interplay between gender, religion and politics by positing the case of Kuki women, and contributes towards an understanding of the mode in which patriarchy operates and is reinforced when it comes to women’s relationship to land. Ancestral land is tied to the sense of community and identity of the people. It is possible for daughters to inherit all movable and immovable property apart from ancestral land, upon which there are still restrictions to women’s ownership under traditional customary law. Kuki women have no political voice in decision-making where land is concerned, not only within formal state law, but also within local-level management systems such as the customary-law courts. The transnational encounter with missionary women in the 19th and 20th centuries changed the structure of gender relations within Kuki households and the community. However, religion seemed to represent a paradoxical emancipation: though emancipation came about to a certain extent it did not result in a change in power relations within society. Rather, religion adapted itself to suit the patriarchal context that already existed and indirectly supported the gender-biased inheritance customs that deprived women.
Disease Development Trends for Maternal and Child Health Care in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Ren Nili , Zhang Jianduan , Huo Lilong , Chen Kai , Sun Chuang , Wu Fangyi , Li Li , Ma Jingdong
Published: February 2015

Shenzhen in China has undergone rapid economic development over the years. The purpose of this study was to investigate disease development trends among women and children inpatients in Shenzhen. A maternal and child health care hospital in Futian District was chosen for this retrospective study. The data were collected from 55 246 inpatients’ information from 2003 to 2012 and were classified into gynecological and pediatric diseases. Descriptive analysis was conducted with Microsoft Excel 2007. The results showed that the number of inpatients had increased year by year, and the constituents of disease had been substantially changed in the study period. More interventions and large-scale studies are needed to improve maternal and child health care in Shenzhen.
Experimental measurement of roller slip in end-pivoted roller follower valve train
Authors: Khurram Muhammad , Mufti Riaz A , Zahid Rehan , Afzal Naqash , Bhutta Usman
Published: February 2015

Direct-acting tappets and end-pivoted roller followers are the two main types of valve train configurations widely used in passenger car engines. Considerable theoretical and experimental work has been carried out on the direct-acting valve train. However, due to complex nature of the end-pivoted rollers, limited work has been carried out in this area. In roller follower valve train, the roller rotation has a direct impact on the performance in terms of component durability and friction. Roller rotation minimizes the chances of fatigue failure by even distribution of wear, improves the lubrication, and influences the valve train power loss.

In this research work, the effect of lubricant rheology and operating conditions on the performance of end-pivoted roller follower has been studied experimentally in detail. Tests have been carried out on real production engine, avoiding any major modification to the components under investigation. The tests revealed presence of roller slip at certain operating conditions. Lubricant viscosity played a key role in the slippage of roller at lower temperatures, however, at high temperatures, negative slip was observed indicating that component inertia has a role to play in roller slip. High camshaft operating speeds and roller inertia increased the tendency of slippage. The study of roller slip was not possible without the development of a new method of measuring roller performance, also reported in this paper. The experimental set up, roller rotation measurement system, test procedure, and results are presented and discussed in detail.
The quality review – asking staff and patients to inform quality strategy in Central Manchester
Authors: Corcoran Sarah
Published: February 2015

Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, like many Trusts, asked itself a number of searching questions in the wake of the reports into appalling standards of care in a number of UK care settings between 2006 and 2009. In order to seek assurance on the quality of care being provided and to be very clear about where improvements were needed, the Board of Directors commissioned a comprehensive peer review into standards of care provided. The resulting exercise involved over 200 staff being trained in review techniques and participating in a comprehensive Trust wide quality improvement programme. The output of this exercise was a detailed plan to improve quality of care, increased recognition of excellence, shared learning across multiple specialties, and increased staff engagement and expertise.
The use of mobile apps to improve nutrition outcomes: A systematic literature review
Authors: DiFilippo Kristen N , Huang Wen-Hao , Andrade Juan E , Chapman-Novakofski Karen M
Published: February 2015

We conducted a systematic review to determine if the use of nutrition apps resulted in improved outcomes, including knowledge and behavior, among healthy adults. Using app(s), cellular phone, iPads, mobile phone, mobile telephone, smart phone, mobile and mHealth as search terms with diet, food and nutrition as qualifiers we searched PubMed, CINAHL (January 2008--October 2013) and Web of Science (January 2008--January 2014). Inclusion criteria were peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials, non-controlled trials, and cohort studies published in English that used apps to increase nutrition knowledge or improve behavior related to nutrition. Studies that were descriptive, did not include apps, focused on app development, app satisfaction app feasibility, text messaging, or digital photography were excluded. We evaluated article quality using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence Analysis Manual. Data was extracted for knowledge, behavior and weight change. Our initial search identified 12,010 titles from PubMed, 260 from CINAHL and 4762 from Web of Science; of these, only four articles met all search criteria. Positive quality ratings were given to three articles; only one reported knowledge outcomes (non-significant). All four articles evaluated weight loss and suggested an advantage to using nutrition apps. Behavioral changes in reviewed studies included increased adherence to diet monitoring ( p < 0.001) and decreased effort to continue diet without app ( p = 0.024). Few studies, however, have explored the use of nutrition apps as supportive educational interventions. Most apps focus on weight loss with inconsistent outcomes. We conclude that using apps for education needs additional research which includes behavior theory within the app and improved study design.
A meta-analysis to determine the effect of coagulopathy on intracranial haematoma progression in adult patients with isolated blunt head trauma
Authors: Batchelor John S
Published: February 2015

Coagulopathy following isolated traumatic brain injury is a well-recognised complication especially in patients with severe head injury. Intracranial haematoma progression is a major adverse factor affecting outcome in patients with traumatic brain injury. Coagulopathy is an important risk factor for haematoma progression. The aim of this meta-analysis was to determine the magnitude of effect of coagulopathy on intracranial haematoma progression in patients with isolated traumatic brain injury. Studies comparing patients with traumatic brain injury, coagulopathy and haematoma progression to patients with traumatic brain injury, haematoma progression and no coagulopathy were identified. The search was performed using Medline via the PubMed interface; no limits were placed on the language. In total 12 studies were identified as being suitable for the meta-analysis. Significant heterogeneity was present between the studies as demonstrated by an I2 = 80.185. The fixed effects model was considered to be the preferred model and this produced a pooled odds ratio of 6.897 (95% confidence interval: 5.495–8.655). The results of this meta-analysis show that traumatic brain injury-induced coagulopathy is a significant factor in haematoma progression in patients with isolated traumatic brain injury.
Antiproliferative activity of long chain acylated esters of quercetin-3-O-glucoside in hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells
Authors: Sudan Sudhanshu , Rupasinghe HP Vasantha
Published: February 2015

Despite their strong role in human health, poor bioavailability of flavonoids limits their biological effects in vivo. Enzymatically catalyzed acylation of fatty acids to flavonoids is one of the approaches of increasing cellular permeability and hence, biological activities. In this study, six long chain fatty acid esters of quercetin-3- O-glucoside (Q3G) acylated enzymatically and were used for determining their antiproliferative action in hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) in comparison to precursor compounds and two chemotherapy drugs (Sorafenib and Cisplatin). Fatty acid esters of Q3G showed significant inhibition of HepG2 cell proliferation by 85 to 90% after 6 h and 24 h of treatment, respectively. The cell death due to these novel compounds was associated with cell-cycle arrest in S-phase and apoptosis observed by DNA fragmentation, fluorescent microscopy and elevated caspase-3 activity and strong DNA topoisomerase II inhibition. Interestingly, Q3G esters showed significantly low toxicity to normal liver cells than Sorafenib ( P < 0.05), a chemotherapy drug for hepatocellular carcinoma. Among all, oleic acid ester of Q3G displayed the greatest antiproliferation action and a high potential as an anti-cancer therapeutic. Overall, the results of the study suggest strong antiproliferative action of these novel food-derived compounds in treatment of cancer.
Discrete Event Simulation of the quantum channel within a Quantum Key Distribution system
Authors: Sorensen Nathaniel T , Grimaila Michael R
Published: February 2015

Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) is a technology that offers the means for two geographically separated parties to create a shared, unconditionally secure, secret key. QKD is unique in its ability to detect any third-party eavesdropping on the key exchange. While QKD technology offers promise for securing military communications, QKD systems are built using non-ideal components that differ significantly from ideal theoretical implementations. For this reason, there is a need to accurately and efficiently model and simulate different QKD system configurations in order to evaluate their security and performance characteristics. In this paper, we examine two competing ways of modeling a quantum channel within a QKD system: one treats photon packets as wave packets and the other simply as particles with no regard to wave equations. The performance statistics of these simulation models, including speed, memory, and accuracy, are compared with the physical solution and each other to determine the optimal model for use in the specific context of modeling and simulation of QKD systems. The results reveal that the wave packet method, while being approximately 110 times slower than the particle method for modeling single photons, provides the most accurate simulation protocol required for modeling and simulation of QKD systems.
The Impact of HPV as an Etiological Factor in Gynecological and Oropharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Mañon Rafael , Schimp Veronica , Gopalan Priya , Pattani Kavita , Tseng Jennifer
Published: February 2015

The human papilloma virus (HPV) is one of several viral pathogens linked to human cancer. This article reviews the current worldwide cancer burden related to this pathogen. The article also examines the role of HPV in oropharyngeal and gynecological malignancies, current treatment implications, and future directions in the treatment and prevention of HPV-related disease.
International trust and public diplomacy
Authors: Mogensen Kirsten
Published: February 2015

National leaders struggle to communicate in ways that are perceived as trustworthy by citizens of other nations because trust is linked to efficiency, business opportunities, and political influence. In this article, four recent public diplomacy activities are analyzed from a trust-building perspective: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani's letter in The Washington Post, The British Council's strategy for trust building in China, Russian President Vladimir V. Putin's letter in The New York Times, and the USA's trust-building effort in Turkey. The analyses are based on already publicized descriptions of public diplomacy activities, public polls, and scholarly literature. Public diplomacy ideas discussed include lightshow, hand-on cooperation, win-win projects, and the creation of frameworks for self-expression. A central concept is international trust as described by Brewer, Gross, Aday, and Willnat. Based on the analysis it is suggested to amend the concept, to distinguish between trust in foreign people and trust in foreign governments.
Theorizing the role of ‘the brand’ in criminal justice: The case of Integrated Offender Management
Authors: Annison Harry , Bradford Ben , Grant Eli
Published: February 2015

The rise of branded programmes and interventions is an important, but largely under-explored, development in criminal justice. This article draws on findings from a study of a British Integrated Offender Management (IOM) scheme to ground a broader theoretical discussion of the meaning and implications of the increasing centrality of such ‘brands’. This article focuses primarily upon the ways in which criminal justice practitioners might draw upon brands in order to (re-)construct their professional identities. Ongoing fundamental reforms of criminal justice organizations, which have tended to blur the traditionally clear distinctions between professional roles, have made this need to reinforce (and indeed reconstruct) practitioner identities ever more pressing. The article closes by considering the prospects and limitations of criminal justice brands. It is argued that while brands may play an important role in ‘ethically orienting’ relevant practitioners, there is a danger that the absence of appropriate structural underpinnings may prove to be highly counter-productive.
High-performance Hypoiodite/Hydrogen Peroxide Catalytic System for the Oxylactonization of Aliphatic γ-Oxocarboxylic Acids
Authors: Uyanik Muhammet , Suzuki Daisuke , Watanabe Mizu , Tanaka Hiroyasu , Furukawa Kikuo , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: February 2015

Highly efficient hypoiodite-catalyzed oxylactonization of aliphatic γ-oxocarboxylic acids to the corresponding γ-acyl-γ-butyrolactones was developed. Highly dilute reaction conditions and slow addition of the oxidant are both highly effective for promoting the high-performance hypoiodite/hydrogen peroxide catalytic oxidation system.
Plasmon-enhanced Water Splitting Utilizing the Heterojunction Synergistic Effect between SrTiO3 and Rutile-TiO2
Authors: Zhong Yuqing , Ueno Kosei , Mori Yuko , Oshikiri Tomoya , Misawa Hiroaki
Published: February 2015

A plasmon-enhanced water splitting system using a gold nanostructured strontium titanate (SrTiO3) single-crystal photoelectrode with a titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin film heterojunction was developed. Simultaneous evolution of hydrogen and oxygen was observed in separate reaction chambers under visible light irradiation. The substrate composed of single-crystal SrTiO3 with a rutile TiO2 thin film heterojunction exhibited enhanced water splitting activity compared with the electrode without the TiO2 thin film because the synergistic effect may prevent the back-electron-transfer reaction.
Boron-doped Nanodiamond Powder Prepared by Solid-state Diffusion Method
Authors: Kondo Takeshi , Okada Narumi , Yamaguchi Yuki , Urai Junichi , Aikawa Tatsuo , Yuasa Makoto
Published: February 2015

A method based on solid-state diffusion has been developed for the preparation of conductive nanodiamond (ND) powder that should be useful for application as a chemically inert electrode material with a large specific surface area. Heat treatment of a ND/boron powder mixture in H2 atmosphere at 900 °C increased the conductivity from 2.0 × 10−6 to 2.7 × 10−3 S cm−1. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements implied that the enhancement of conductivity originated from the solid-state diffusion of boron into ND from the surface.
Expression of the proinflammatory marker CD34 in varicose leg veins
Authors: Samsonava I.V. , Galishevich M. M. , Sushkou S. A.
Published: February 2015

Objective: To study the CD34 expression in the leg veins with primary varicose veins.

Material and Methods: The study included 18 patients with lower limbs varicose veins and deep vein valves insufficiency of C3 and C4 clinical classes (CEAP). To correct blood flow phlebectomy was accompanied by posterior tibial veins resection. Using immunohistochemistry, we compared the expression of CD34 in resected posterior tibial veins specimens and vena saphena magna distal fragment.

Results: Posterior tibial veins wall in patients with lower limb varicosity and deep veins valves insufficiency vary the CD34 degree expression comparing with the control group. Total area of expression was significantly greater than in control sample. CD34 expression area was also significantly greater in vena saphena magna than in control group. CD34 expression comparison in the specimens from patients with varicose veins showed its significantly higher degree in the vena saphena magna than in tibial veins.

Conclusion: With primary varicose veins superficial and deep leg veins develop unidirectional increase of CD34 expression, that can be assumed as a pathogenetic factors of further disease progression and involvement of deep vein valves.
Treatment of high risk pregnancies
Authors: Becker R , Breitkopf M , Baumgarten S , Halis G , Höhne A , Jantke A , Kießling-Rau C , Kuhlmann K , Kunert S , Entezami M , Peet DJ , Reißig M , Ristau B , Schmidt FP , Sydow P , Tabor-Wessel P , Yüksel E , Duncker R , Münchow R , Röding A , Clausnitzer S , Giers FH , Hubatsch M , Maas S , Moeller K-T , Stellmacher A , Zöllner M , Kiesewetter H
Published: February 2015

Introduction: The efficacy of a therapy with certoparin; also in combination with aspirin and prednisolone; in high-risk pregnancies has been examined prospectively.

Method: Data of 616 pregnancies have been analyzed. 238 patients injected Mono Embolex 3000; 239 patients Mono Embolex 8000 only. 62 patients injected Mono Embolex 8000 and took aspirin 50–100 mg daily; 60 Mono Embolex 3000 and aspirin 50–100 mg daily. 30 patients took aspirin 50–100 mg; prednisolone 2.5–5 mg and 17 injected mono Embolex 8000; 13 Mono Embolex 3000 daily from the start of their pregnancy. The target variable was the life birth rate.

When given aspirin the HPA-status of the partner is measured if the pregnant woman is negative for HPA 1a or 5b. In HPA-negative mothers and HPA-positive fathers a test for HPA-antibodies is performed posterior week 16.

Result: Applied early; a mean life birth rate of 95 % has been achieved in the monotherapy with Mono Embolex. Where heparin and aspirin were applied before pregnancy week 17 a life birth rate of 100 % was achieved. In patientswith a combination of aspirin and prednisolone a life birth rate of 87 % was achieved. Considering the life birth rate the status of thrombophilia gene-polymorphisms is irrelevant. The HPA-status was examined in 139 patients. In one of the HPA 5a-negative and 3 of the HPA 5b-negative women an immunization occurred but the platelet count of the fetus was not decreased. 3.3 % showed local allergic reaction and 0.5 % slight bleeding.

Conclusion: Certoparin, aspirin and prednisolone are safe drugs to increase life birth rate.
Virtual screen for repurposing approved and experimental drugs for candidate inhibitors of EBOLA virus infection
Authors: Veljkovic Veljko , Loiseau Philippe M. , Figadere Bruno , Glisic Sanja , Veljkovic Nevena , Perovic Vladimir R. , Cavanaugh David P. , Branch Donald R.
Published: February 2015

The ongoing Ebola virus epidemic has presented numerous challenges with respect to control and treatment because there are no approved drugs or vaccines for the Ebola virus disease (EVD). Herein is proposed simple theoretical criterion for fast virtual screening of molecular libraries for candidate inhibitors of Ebola virus infection. We performed a repurposing screen of 6438 drugs from DrugBank using this criterion and selected 267 approved and 382 experimental drugs as candidates for treatment of EVD including 15 anti-malarial drugs and 32 antibiotics. An open source Web server allowing screening of molecular libraries for candidate drugs for treatment of EVD was also established.
Top-quality communication skills remove obstacles to communicating with people with dementia
Authors: Nazarko Linda
Published: February 2015

The ability to communicate effectively with a person with dementia enriches the life of that person and reduces stress on caregivers ( Livingstone et al, 2014 ). The healthcare assistant (HCA) provides a great deal of care to people with dementia. The self-aware HCA who is educated and supported can hear the voice of the person with dementia and provide sensitive, compassionate, person-centred care.
Rocking the boat: the link between transformational leadership and advocacy
Authors: Antill Corri
Published: February 2015

This paper aims to develop and explore certain leadership skills in particular with regard to the notion of patient advocacy, as detailed in the case study (Appendix 1). The paper will initially investigate definitions and theories of leadership models, with specific attention focused on the ‘transformational’ model of leadership. The role of patient advocacy will then be examined and the author intends to establish links between the qualities in transformational leadership skills and the idealised role of patient's advocate. The article will conclude with the proposals related to future education and development, and the completion of the action plan (Appendix 2).
Kneading to craft with playdough
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: February 2015

Playdough has been a staple of early learning and discovery for years, often forming the basis of creative ideas. Find out how to inspire children with your own natural versions.
Fruit & Veg: M is for Mango…
Authors: Hammond Paul , Lillie Stephen
Published: February 2015

This month, we continue our extended adventure around the alphabetical vegetables and fruits of the world, by looking at the wonderfully, vibrant and sweet ‘royal’ mango.
The future is uncertain
Authors: Webb Penny
Published: February 2015

The government's plan to introduce childminding agencies and its lack of commitment or encouragement to independent childminders could lead to an impending childcare crisis.
Can breastfeeding support be taught online? An evaluation of a training package for student health visitors
Authors: Condon Louise , Murray Joy , Messer Simon
Published: February 2015

This study evaluated an online learning package developed to support student health visitors' education about health promotion in infant feeding and how best to support parents in the community. Online learning is increasingly being used in nursing education, in combination with traditional classroom-based teaching and experience in practice. To meet the needs of students across the South West of England, the University of the West of England (UWE) has developed innovative ways of delivering high-quality, evidence-based education. Study participants (n=66) were enrolled on a specialist community public health nursing course and were part of a cohort that studied at two geographically distant venues in the South West. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using an online survey. The study found that students had the skills and ability to use the online programme, and enjoyed working at home at a self-directed time and pace. Expectations of online learning packages are high in terms of professional presentation and technological quality. While students accepted the concept of online learning, some felt it was not an appropriate method to deliver training about breastfeeding. This evaluation suggests that the majority of students accept online learning as part of a blended learning package, even for practice-based subjects such as breastfeeding promotion and support.
Proportionate universalism in the foundation years
Authors: Murphy Madeleine
Published: February 2015

Frank Field MP chaired a seminar in January to explore the subject of proportionate universalism in research and service delivery.
Fathers' mental health and wellbeing: Why is it significant to health visiting?
Authors: Baldwin Sharin
Published: February 2015

Mental health and wellbeing is a public health priority in the UK. The transition to parenthood can be a stressful time bringing new challenges, which can significantly affect the mental wellbeing of both mothers and fathers. While the importance of maternal mental health is widely recognised, fathers' mental health needs are less well understood. Poor mental health in fathers can have an adverse effect on the child's health and development. Health visitors can play a key role in improving fathers' mental health during this crucial time. This paper is the second of a two-part series on fatherhood, which explores the importance of improving mental health and wellbeing in fathers in the postnatal period.