bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rectification of El Niño–Southern Oscillation into Climate Anomalies of Decadal and Longer Time Scales: Results from Forced Ocean GCM Experiments
Authors: Sun De-Zheng , Zhang Tao , Sun Yan , Yu Yongqiang
Published: December 2013

To better understand the causes of climate change in the tropical Pacific on the decadal and longer time scales, the rectification effect of ENSO events is delineated by contrasting the time-mean state of two forced ocean GCM experiments. In one of them, the long-term mean surface wind stress of 1950–2011 is applied, while in the other, the surface wind stress used is the long-term mean surface wind stress of 1950–2011 plus the interannual monthly anomalies over the period. Thus, the long-term means of the surface wind stress in the two runs are identical. The two experiments also use the same relaxation boundary conditions, that is, the SST is restored to the same prescribed values. The two runs, however, are found to yield significantly different mean climate for the tropical Pacific. The mean state of the run with interannual fluctuations in the surface winds is found to have a cooler warm pool, warmer thermocline water, and warmer eastern surface Pacific than the run without interannual fluctuations in the surface winds. The warming of the eastern Pacific has a pattern that resembles the observed decadal warming. In particular, the pattern features an off-equator maximum as the observed decadal warming. The spatial pattern of the time-mean upper-ocean temperature differences between the two experiments is shown to resemble that of the differences in the nonlinear dynamic heating, underscoring the role of the nonlinear ocean dynamics in the rectification. The study strengthens the suggestion that rectification of ENSO can be a viable mechanism for climate change of decadal and longer time scales.
The Effects of Gap-Wind-Induced Vorticity, the Monsoon Trough, and the ITCZ on East Pacific Tropical Cyclogenesis
Authors: Holbach Heather M. , Bourassa Mark A.
Published: December 2013

Tropical cyclogenesis in the eastern North Pacific (EPAC) basin is related to gap-wind-induced surface relative vorticity, the monsoon trough, and the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). There are several gaps in the Central American mountains, on the eastern edge of the EPAC basin, through which wind can be funneled to generate surface wind jets (gap winds). This study focuses on gap winds that occur over the Gulf of Papagayo and Gulf of Tehuantepec. Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) 10-m equivalent neutral winds are used to identify gap wind events that occur during May through November of 2002–08. Dvorak fix locations, Gridded Satellite (GridSat) infrared (IR) data, and National Hurricane Center (NHC) tropical cyclone (TC) reports are used to track the disturbances during the study period. Surface vorticity is tracked using the QuikSCAT winds and the contribution of surface vorticity from the gap winds to the development of each disturbance is categorized as small, medium, or large. Cross-calibrated multiplatform surface wind data are used to verify the tracking of QuikSCAT-computed surface vorticity and to identify when the monsoon trough and the ITCZ are present. It is found that gap winds are present over the Gulf of Papagayo and Gulf of Tehuantepec for about 50% of the QuikSCAT coverage days and that these gap winds appear to contribute to the development of disturbances in the EPAC. Considerably more TCs form when the monsoon trough is present versus the ITCZ and the majority of the contributions from the gap winds also occur when the monsoon trough is present.
Serum Uric Acid Concentration and Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia With Subclinical Organ Damage in General Population
Authors: Li Yan , Lu Jiapeng , Wu Xiaogang , Yang Chunlei
Published: December 2013

We assessed the effect of increased serum uric acid (SUA) concentration and hyperuricemia on subclinical organ damage. A cross-sectional examination of 1243 asymptomatic patients aged 55 to 84 years was conducted from September to October 2012. All participants underwent the measurements of SUA and other established cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. A morning spot urine sample was collected to detect microalbuminuria, and carotid plaque was scanned by B-mode ultrasound; the cardioankle vascular index and ankle-brachial index were obtained to evaluate arterial stiffness and peripheral artery disease (PAD), respectively. After adjustment for established CV risk factors, multiple logistic regression analyses showed that the highest quartile of SUA concentration and hyperuricemia had an independent association with PAD (respective odds ratios: 3.86 [1.26-11.83] and 2.33 [1.14-4.77]); this association maintained significantly in males but disappeared in females. Serum uric acid concentration and hyperuricemia are significantly associated with PAD in males.
The recognition of the personality disorders among young people
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Bates Sophie , Ladha Ruhina , Lee Zhen Yi , Lousley Chiara , Sigl-Gloecker Joanna
Published: December 2013

Background:

Previous research suggests that mental health literacy regarding the personality disorders is low, with few disorders being recognised.

Aims:

The current study aimed to examine the effect of a background in psychology as a predictor of knowledge of the personality disorders.

Methods:

An opportunistic sample of 165 participants (mean age = 30.12 years, standard deviation ( SD) = 15.27 years) took part in the study. Participants were instructed to read 10 personality disorder vignettes and other ‘filler’ items and rate each person in terms of how happy, successful at work and good at personal relationships they are, as well as whether they have a psychological problem.

Results:

Results showed, as predicted, that those with a background in psychology were more accurate at labelling disorders. In addition, laypeople’s mental health literacy was good for identifying the presence of personality disorders, but was considerably poorer when naming them.

Conclusion:

Recognising that people may have a disorder and having a ‘correct’ or recognised label are not the same thing.
Predicting dimensional distortions in roll forming of comingled polypropylene/glass fiber thermoplastic composites: On the effect of matrix viscoelasticity
Authors: Lynam Corey , Milani Abbas S , Trudel-Boucher David , Borazghi Hossein
Published: December 2013

Thermal deformations that occur during formation of long-fiber-reinforced composites have been a continued challenge for manufacturers as the final shape of a given part can be different from the original mold shape. The ensuing dimensional distortions can be difficult to predict due to complex thermo-mechanical behaviour of composite laminates during different forming cycles. This study intends to model the fundamental mechanisms that lead to thermal deformations during forming of a thermoplastic matrix composite comprised of comingled polypropylene and E-glass fibers. While the discussion is framed around a custom-design multi-stage roll-forming process, it is also relevant to a wider range of thermoplastic composites manufacturing processes. A methodology is developed to characterize the thermal mechanical behavior of the material, optimize the manufacturing process, and predict the magnitude of resulting spring-in angle due to thermal deformations. It is found that the process control parameters can be optimized first such that the crystallization of the matrix occurs at an ideal position along the forming line. Once the process is optimized, the developed numerical model, with a thermoelastic material behaviour, can give an adequate prediction of spring-in at the end of the process. Finally, through a comparative study, it is discussed how for other manufacturing processes, such as compression molding, including a thermoviscoelastic liquid/solid material behaviour may be required to yield accurate spring-in predictions.
Effect of modified nanofillers on fire retarded high-density polyethylene/wood composites
Authors: Katančić Zvonimir , Krehula Ljerka Kratofil , Siročić Anita Ptiček , Grozdanić Vedrana , Hrnjak-Murgić Zlata
Published: December 2013

In this study fire retarded HDPE/WF composites based on high density polyethylene (HDPE) and wood flour (WF) were investigated. Polymer and WF ratio was kept at 70/30 while concentration of fire retardant was 20 mass %. Ammonium polyphosphate and aluminum hydroxide were used as fire retardants. To diminish the influence of high loadings of fire retardants on mechanical properties two different types of organically modified nanofillers (CaCO3 and SiO2) were used. Surface modification of HDPE polymer and nanofiller was done to enhance the compatibility in composite and improve the mechanical properties and fire performance. Mechanical properties were characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis while compatibility of components in composites was followed through morphology by scanning electron microscopy. Thermal and fire properties were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, pyrolysis combustion flow calorimetry, and limiting oxygen index. The obtained results show that addition of surface modified nanofiller considerably affects the morphology resulting in the enhancement of mechanical and fire properties. Ammonium polyphosphate fire retardant in combination with SiO2 nanofiller showed the highest limiting oxygen index value, the lowest heat release rate, and total heat released in pyrolysis-combustion flow calorimetry test indicating best overall fire performance.
Viscoelastic properties of syntactic foam reinforced with short sisal fibers
Authors: Ghamsari Ali Kadkhoda , Zegeye Ephraim , Woldesenbet Eyassu
Published: December 2013

Application of natural fibers has attracted a great deal of attention among the composite research community in the past couple of decades. In this study, sisal fiber was utilized in fabrication of syntactic foam to improve the mechanical properties. Four sets of samples with different volume fractions of sisal fibers (0%, 1.5%, 2.5%, and 3.5%) were prepared. Viscoelastic properties of the samples were characterized with dynamic mechanical analysis. Storage and loss moduli, complex viscosity, and damping factor (tan δ) of syntactic foam samples were recorded. Dynamic mechanical analysis results showed improvement in storage and loss moduli in glassy region (30℃) up to 12% and 300%, respectively. In rubbery region (150℃), the storage modulus of sisal fiber syntactic foam was three orders of magnitude higher than plain ones. Decrease in the tan δ peak also indicated improved interfacial bonding by addition and increase in the content of sisal fibers. All these improvements in viscoelastic properties were achieved without any significant change in the density of syntactic foam.
Didactic Lecture Versus Interactive Workshop for Continuing Pharmacy Education on Reproductive Health
Authors: Javadi Mohammadreza , Kargar Alireza , Gholami Kheirollah , Hadjibabaie Molouk , Rashidian Arash , Torkamandi Hassan , Sarayani Amir
Published: December 2013

Pharmacists are routinely providing reproductive health counseling in community pharmacies, but studies have revealed significant deficits in their competencies. Therefore, continuing pharmacy education (CPE) could be utilized as a valuable modality to upgrade pharmacists’ capabilities. A randomized controlled trial was designed to compare the efficacy of CPE meetings (lecture based vs. workshop based) on contraception and male sexual dysfunctions. Sixty pharmacists were recruited for each CPE meeting. Small group training using simulated patients was employed in the workshop-based CPE. Study outcomes were declarative/procedural knowledge, attitudes, and satisfaction of the participants. Data were collected pre-CPE, post-CPE, and 2 months afterward and were analyzed using repeated measure analysis of variance and Mann–Whitney U test. Results showed that lecture-based CPE was more successful in improving pharmacists’ knowledge post-CPE ( p < .001). In contrast, a significant decrease was observed in the lecture-based group at follow-up ( p = .002), whereas the workshop-based group maintained their knowledge over time ( p = 1.00). Knowledge scores of both groups were significantly higher at follow-up in comparison with pre-CPE ( p < .01). No significant differences were observed regarding satisfaction and attitudes scores between groups. In conclusion, an interactive workshop might not be superior to lecture-based training for improving pharmacists’ knowledge and attitudes in a 1-day CPE meeting.
Effectiveness of intervention for grammar in school-aged children with primary language impairments: A review of the evidence
Authors: Ebbels Susan
Published: December 2013

This article summarizes the evidence as regards the effectiveness of therapy for grammar for school-aged children with language impairments. I first review studies focusing on specific areas of grammar (both expressive and receptive targets) and then studies aiming to improve language more generally, several of which focus more on the effectiveness of different methods of delivery. I conclude that while there is a growing body of evidence in this area, there are still many gaps. The most concerning gap is the small amount of evidence of effectiveness of intervention for children with receptive as well as expressive language impairments. The evidence to date seems to indicate that these children need specialist, intensive help in order to make progress with their language. Further research is also needed to consider the relative impact of different types of interventions (or their combination) on children of different ages and with different language profiles, including establishing the most effective and/or cost-effective methods of delivery of these interventions.
Lack of association between venous hemodynamics, venous morphology and the postthrombotic syndrome after upper extremity deep venous thrombosis
Authors: Czihal M , Paul S , Rademacher A , Bernau C , Hoffmann U
Published: December 2013

Objectives

To explore the association of the postthrombotic syndrome with venous hemodynamics and morphological abnormalities after upper extremity deep venous thrombosis.

Methods

Thirty-seven patients with a history of upper extremity deep venous thrombosis treated with anticoagulation alone underwent a single study visit (mean time after diagnosis: 44.4 ± 28.1 months). Presence and severity postthrombotic syndrome were classified according to the modified Villalta score. Venous volume and venous emptying were determined by strain-gauge plethysmography. The arm veins were assessed for postthrombotic abnormalities by ultrasonography. The relationship between postthrombotic syndrome and hemodynamic and morphological sequelae was evaluated using univariate significance tests and Spearman’s correlation analysis.

Results

Fifteen of 37 patients (40.5%) developed postthrombotic syndrome. Venous volume and venous emptying of the arm affected by upper extremity deep venous thrombosis did not correlate with the Villalta score (rho = 0.17 and 0.19; p = 0.31 and 0.25, respectively). Residual morphological abnormalities, as assessed by ultrasonography, did not differ significantly between patients with and without postthrombotic syndrome (77.3% vs. 86.7%, p = 0.68).

Conclusions

Postthrombotic syndrome after upper extremity deep venous thrombosis is not associated with venous hemodynamics or residual morphological abnormalities.
Ghana’s development dilemma: The quest for a pragmatic approach
Authors: Sarpong Sam
Published: December 2013

Over the years, Ghana’s development agenda has witnessed various swings as a result of the different economic agendas successive governments adopted. The changes to the economic agendas reflect the considerable unease with the constituents of development and economic growth and the complex processes that they entail. This article attempts to place in context the wide variety of explanations for the unease. Considerable effort is made to appreciate why Ghana, like other countries, has been induced to adopt the neo-liberal economic policies in a bid to participate fully in the global economic arrangement.
A survey of prognosis discussions held by health-care providers who request palliative care consultation
Authors: Chang Amy , Datta-Barua Indrany , McLaughlin Beth , Daly Barbara
Published: December 2013

Background:

Patient misunderstandings about prognosis may be related to lack of communication.

Aim:

This study aimed to examine prognosis discussions held with hospitalized patients for whom palliative care consultations were requested, and if prognosis discussions did not occur, to explore why not.

Design:

This was a survey conducted over the telephone from a convenience sample of health-care providers who requested palliative care consultations. Respondents were asked about whether prognosis had been discussed with the patient and the topics addressed.

Participants:

A total of 65 health-care providers who called to request a consultation from the palliative care team in a large academic medical center in the United States.

Results:

Of the 65 responses, 45 (69.2%) subjects reported that a prognosis discussion had occurred, while 15 (23.1%) reported that a prognosis discussion had not taken place. Among the surveys reporting a prognosis discussion, a majority of providers responded that most aspects of prognosis were discussed, with the exceptions of life expectancy, survival rates/statistics, and psychosocial concerns. When the prognosis discussion had not occurred, the most common reasons for omitting the prognosis discussion included difficulty in determining prognosis, the perception that the patient already knew his or her prognosis, and the belief that the prognosis discussion was better suited for a different specialty.

Conclusions:

The results of this study highlight the uncertainty that primary team providers in the academic hospital environment have with prognostication, which is a complex process for which this set of providers, composed primarily of medical trainees and nurses, may not have had sufficient training.
Postoperative complications after closed calcaneus fracture treated by open reduction and internal fixation: A review
Authors: Yu Xiao , Pang Qing-Jiang , Chen Liang , Yang Chang-Chun , Chen Xian-Jun
Published: December 2013

Objective

To review postoperative complications reported after closed calcaneus fracture treated by open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF).

Methods

Postoperative complications reported in the literature between 1995 and 2012 were identified. Papers were retrieved from publicly available databases and included in this study if they met the following criteria: clinical research of cases of closed calcaneus fracture treated by ORIF; ≥10 cases; detailed information about complications, treatment and follow up.

Results

Twenty-one clinical reports were analysed (2046 cases). Reported complications (and incidence rates) were: infection and skin flap necrosis (13.6%); neurovascular injury (2.8%); post-traumatic arthritis (1.2%); malreduction/implant problems (0.8%); nonunion (0.1%).

Conclusions

Postoperative complications after closed calcaneus fracture are common clinical problems that cannot always be avoided. They can even be life altering, due to the requirement for long-term treatment or amputation and their economic impact on the patient. Complications should be diagnosed and treated promptly, to achieve satisfactory outcomes. Nonsurgical treatment (e.g. local wound care, drugs or physical therapy) can be attempted. If such measures fail, surgical treatment (e.g. debridement, skin flap transplantation, implant removal, re-opening of the reduction and internal fixation or subtalar joint arthrodesis) should be considered.
Testament and Inheritance Reflecting Family Dynamics in Jewish Yemen in the Nineteenth Century
Authors: Klorman Bat-Zion Eraqi
Published: December 2013

This article investigates social practices and cultural ethos that governed Yemeni Jewish society in the nineteenth century as reflected in testaments, pointing generational changes, shifts in power relations, and transfer of wealth. Concepts of the Yemeni Jewish family were based on traditional tenets that were in congruence with Muslim society, and according to which most women did not inherit. The analysis shows that nineteenth-century political and social changes affected the practical position of women, as many entered the labor force. It suggests that the dissonance between formal status of women and actual power lasted as long as Jews lived in Yemen.
A New Source of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Articular Cartilage Repair
Authors: Fu Wei-Li , Zhou Chun-Yan , Yu Jia-Kuo
Published: December 2013

Background:

Bone marrow (BM) has been considered as a major source of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), but it has many disadvantages in clinical application. However, MSCs from peripheral blood (PB) could be obtained by a less invasive method and be more beneficial for autologous transplantation than BM MSCs, which makes PB a promising source for articular cartilage repair in clinical use.

Purpose:

To assess whether MSCs from mobilized PB of New Zealand White rabbits have similar biological characteristics in vitro and chondrogenesis in vivo as BM MSCs.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A combined method of drug administration containing granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) plus CXCR4 antagonist AMD3100 was adopted to mobilize the PB stem cells of adult New Zealand White rabbits in vitro. The isolated cells were identified as MSCs by morphological characteristics, surface markers, and differentiation potentials. A comparison between PB MSCs and BM MSCs was made in terms of biological characteristics in vitro and chondrogenesis in vivo. This issue was investigated from the aspects of morphology, immune phenotype, multiple differentiation capacity, expansion potential, antiapoptotic capacity, and ability to repair cartilage defects in vivo of PB MSCs compared with BM MSCs.

Results:

Peripheral blood MSCs were successfully mobilized by the method of combined drug administration, then isolated, expanded, and identified in vitro. No significant difference was found concerning the morphology, immune phenotype, and antiapoptotic capacity between PB MSCs and BM MSCs. Significantly, MSCs from both sources compounded with decalcified bone matrix showed the same ability to repair cartilage defects in vivo. For multipluripotency, BM MSCs exhibited a more osteogenic potential and higher proliferation capacity than PB MSCs, whereas PB MSCs possessed a stronger adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation potential than BM MSCs in vitro.

Conclusion:

Although there are some differences in the proliferation and differentiation aspects between the 2 sources, PB MSCs share certain similar biological characteristics in vitro and chondrogenesis in vivo as BM MSCs.

Clinical Relevance:

These results suggest that PB MSCs are a new source of seed cells used in articular cartilage repair.
Heat transfer analysis and cure modelling of composite repairs for pipelines
Authors: Liu Xiao Lin , Leong Alan YL , Leong KH , Falzon Paul J , Tan Yee Chech
Published: December 2013

This paper presents work conducted to develop numerical tool for heat transfer analysis and cure modelling for the accelerated curing of a composite pipeline repair system. Experimental work was conducted to measure the cure kinetics of the composite material. The measurements were fitted into a cure kinetic model which was subsequently implemented into a FE package through a user subroutine. Applications of the numerical tool to the design and analysis of heating configuration for curing the composite repair are also presented.
Youth Gang Desistance
Authors: Carson Dena C. , Peterson Dana , Esbensen Finn-Aage
Published: December 2013

Following a noticeable absence, studies of gang desistance have begun to appear in the literature. Spurred by results from panel studies that gang membership is a transitory stage for the majority of gang-involved youth, researchers have begun to examine motivations, methods, and consequences associated with leaving the gang. Relatively absent from these recent publications is attention to the operationalization of gang desistance, an issue of particular importance in survey research. As with concerns about how to define gang membership, it is essential that we explore conceptual and methodological issues associated with defining gang desistance. In this article, we introduce three operationalizations of gang desistance and then examine how the characteristics of “desisters” and the expressed motivations, methods, and consequences for leaving the gang vary across the three different operational definitions.
Ubiquitous Writing, Technologies, and the Social Practice of Literacies of Coordination
Authors: Pigg Stacey , Grabill Jeffrey T. , Brunk-Chavez Beth , Moore Jessie L. , Rosinski Paula , Curran Paul G.
Published: December 2013

This article shares results from a multi-institutional study of the role of writing in college students’ lives. Using case studies built from a larger population survey along with interviews, diaries, and a daily SMS texting protocol, we found that students report SMS texting, lecture notes, and emails to be the most frequent writing practices in college student experience and that these writing practices are often highly valued by students as well. Our data suggest that college students position these pervasive and important writing practices as coordinative acts that create social alignment. Writing to coordinate people and things is more than an instrumental practice: through this activity, college students not only operate within established social collectives that shape literacy but also actively participate in building relationships that support them. In this regard, our study of writing as it functions in everyday use helps us understand contemporary forms of social interaction.
Strong (Type 0) Phase Resetting of Activity-Rest Rhythm in Fruit Flies, Drosophila Melanogaster, at Low Temperature
Authors: Varma Vishwanath , Mukherjee Narendra , Kannan Nisha N. , Sharma Vijay Kumar
Published: December 2013

Amplitude modulation in limit cycle models of circadian clocks has been previously formulated to explain the phenomenon of temperature compensation. These models propose that invariance of clock period (τ) with changing temperature is a result of the system traversing small or large limit cycles such that despite a decrease or an increase in the linear velocity of the clock owing to slowing down or speeding up of the underlying biochemical reactions, respectively, the angular velocity and, thus, the clock period remain constant. In addition, these models predict that phase resetting behavior of circadian clocks described by limit cycles of different amplitudes at low or high temperatures will be drastically different. More specifically, this class of models predicts that at low temperatures, circadian clocks will respond to perturbations by eliciting larger phase shifts by virtue of their smaller amplitude and vice versa. Here, we present the results of our tests of this prediction: We examined the nature of photic phase response curves (PRCs) and phase transition curves (PTCs) for the circadian clocks of 4 wild-type fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster populations at 3 different ambient temperatures (18, 25, and 29 °C). Interestingly, we observed that at the low temperature of 18 °C, fly clocks respond to light perturbations more strongly, eliciting strong (type 0) PRCs and PTCs, while at moderate (25 °C) and high (29 °C) temperatures the same stimuli evoke weak (type 1) responses. This pattern of strong and weak phase resetting at low and high temperatures, respectively, renders support for the limit cycle amplitude modulation model for temperature compensation of circadian clocks.
Body Temperature Predicts the Direction of Internal Desynchronization in Humans Isolated from Time Cues
Authors: Daan Serge , Honma Sato , Honma Ken-ichi
Published: December 2013

This publication presents a new analysis of experiments that were carried out in human subjects in isolation from time cues, under supervision of Jürgen Aschoff and Rütger Wever at the Max Planck Institute for Behavioural Physiology (Erling-Andechs, Germany, 1964-1974). Mean rectal temperatures (tb) were compared between subjects who showed internal desynchronization (ID) and internal synchronization (IS) of the endogenous rhythms of sleep-wakefulness and of body temperature. The results showed that tb was reduced in long ID (circadian sleep-wake cycle length [τSW] > 27 h) and increased in short ID (τSW < 22 h) relative to IS. In subjects with both ID and IS sections in the complete record, these differences were also found when comparing only the IS sections: Low tb during IS predicts the later occurrence of long ID, and high tb predicts the incidence of short ID. While this association is associated with sex differences in tb, it also occurs within each sex. To the extent that the variation in tb reflects the variation in heat production (metabolic rate), the results are consistent with the proposition that the spontaneous frequency of the human sleep-wake oscillator is associated with the metabolic rate, as suggested on the basis of the proportionality of meal frequency and sleep-wake frequency. The finding thus has implications for our views on spontaneous sleep timing.
Preparing for IRS Scrutiny of Executive Compensation
Authors: Kirkland Stephen D.
Published: December 2013

Executive compensation amounts are drawing close attention from Internal Revenue Service examiners. Tax assessments, with penalties and interest, are being imposed on those who are not following the regulations.
How Ethnic Exclusion Influences Rebellion and Leader Survival
Authors: Choi Hyun Jin
Published: December 2013

This study extends selectorate theory in the form of an agent-based model to explore how the leader’s ethnic policy—ethnic exclusion or inclusion—influences the risk of rebellion and leader survival in different sizes of the minimum winning coalition. The theoretical simulation shows that when the minimum winning coalition is small, (1) highly exclusive leaders not only survive longer in power but also face a lower risk of violent removal from office than moderately exclusive leaders; (2) leaders who pursue an inclusive ethnic policy are more likely to be overthrown by disaffected members of the ruling coalition; and (3) there is an inverted U-shaped relationship between the level of ethnic exclusion and the risk of rebellion, with the greatest risk of rebellion among semiexclusive regimes. These findings indicate that an exclusive ethnic policy provides political benefits to nondemocratic leaders even if it motivates excluded groups to rebel.
Quantity, Quality, and Satisfaction With Mentoring
Authors: Xu Xiaohong , Payne Stephanie C.
Published: December 2013

According to Kram’s mentor role theory, satisfaction with mentoring and mentorship quality are key indicators of effective and successful mentoring. We contribute to mentoring research by demonstrating the relative importance of mentorship quantity, mentorship quality, and satisfaction with mentoring to the prediction of job satisfaction, affective commitment, and turnover intentions. Survey data from 472 faculty members revealed the importance of that satisfaction with mentoring in that it mediated the effect of mentorship quality on job satisfaction and turnover intentions, and it explained variance in three job attitudes above and beyond mentorship quantity and quality. Implications for organizational mentoring are discussed.
Community-Based Pharmacists’ Needs for HIV-Related Training and Experience
Authors: Kibicho Jennifer , Pinkerton Steven D. , Owczarzak Jill
Published: December 2013

Objective:

To examine pharmacists’ self-reported competence in providing care to persons living with HIV (PLWH) and their HIV-related training and experience needs.

Methods:

We interviewed 28 community-based pharmacists providing care to PLWH in 4 Midwestern cities. Results: Less than half (46%) of the pharmacists considered themselves competent to provide PLWH care, and less than a third (29%) worked with PLWH during their pharmacy residency. Specialty pharmacists need training on opportunistic infections and HIV-related comorbidities, nonspecialty pharmacists need general training in HIV treatment and patient communications skills, and all pharmacists require a mechanism to keep updated in the latest HIV treatment recommendations.

Conclusion:

In the current era of patient-centered care, a pharmacist that is well rounded—not just in dispensing antiretroviral medications but highly knowledgeable in different aspects of ART and HIV-specific patient care—can make a valuable contribution to the health care team. Pharmacy school curricula and continuing professional education need to be aligned to meet the knowledge and competency needs of community pharmacists who are strategically positioned to provide care to PLWH.
Impact of a Pharmacist on Compliance With Hospital Core Measures
Authors: Oliphant Carrie S. , Twilla Jennifer D.
Published: December 2013

Purpose:

The role of a pharmacist in achieving compliance with hospital core measures is described.

Core measures for hospitals, also known as quality measures, were introduced by the Department of Health and Human Services as an initiative to improve health care through accountability and public disclosure. Hospitals receive financial incentives for compliance with these core measures, but most importantly, these measures ensure that evidence-based therapy is consistently provided to each patient. If a core measure is not met, documentation must be provided to ensure that there is not a failure to meet the measure. Pharmacists were granted the authority to provide core measure documentation in 2007. There are a total of 44 core measures, 22 (50%) of which are medication related and can be documented by a pharmacist. Over a 5-year period, clinical pharmacists have recorded 1281 interventions for core measure documentation. In an analysis of a 1-year period of charts with missing core measure documentation, pharmacists prevented failure to meet the measure in 96% of the cases.

Conclusion:

Given the great impact that pharmacists can have on hospital core measure compliance, each hospital’s Pharmacy Department should evaluate ways to improve involvement in the quality programs at their hospitals.
Pharmacist Testers in Multidisciplinary Health care Team Expand HIV Point-of-Care Testing Program
Authors: Sherman Elizabeth M. , Elrod Shara , Allen Deberenia , Eckardt Paula
Published: December 2013

Knowledge of HIV serostatus is the first step to accessing treatment, reducing transmission, and mitigating public health challenges. We describe the expansion of an HIV point-of-care testing (POCT) program within a health care system utilizing pharmacists as testers. The testing program’s expansion is detailed and its impact assessed. The POCT program was evaluated by comparing the number of traditional HIV venipuncture tests to the number of POCTs performed across the health system as well as comparing the number of POCTs performed by clinical pharmacists to the number of tests at other POCT locations. Although pharmacists’ contributions to HIV prevention are well documented, pharmacists’ involvement in HIV testing initiatives is still nascent. Our POCT program demonstrates an effective HIV testing initiative driven by pharmacists and other health care providers.
Development of an Anticoagulation Stewardship Program at a Large Tertiary Care Academic Institution
Authors: Padron Maria , Miyares Marta A.
Published: December 2013

Pharmacist-directed anticoagulation management services (AMSs) have been shown to significantly lower anticoagulation-related mortality, length of hospital stay, bleeding complications, blood transfusion requirements, and cost of therapy. AMSs are only 1 component of an anticoagulation stewardship program. Frequently, stewardship programs are limited to inpatient populations. Incorporating components that facilitate transition to outpatient status will ideally encompass complete care. The purpose of this program was to expand anticoagulation services and standardize care by implementing a full-service stewardship program including a transition of care service. The first component of the study involved medication surveillance for inpatients on anticoagulation therapy. The second component involved transitioning patients on anticoagulation, primarily with venous thromboembolism (VTE) to outpatient management. Finally, the pharmacist identified areas for optimization. Optimization involved developing or updating protocols to reflect updates in the literature as well as updating institution-specific information resources. Interventions made through medication surveillance and utilization of the VTE transition of care services translated into a total cost savings of approximately US$270 320. A postgraduate, first-year pharmacy resident contributed to improving patient outcomes while reducing utilization of hospital services and obtaining substantial cost savings through participation in anticoagulation stewardship services.
Seeking and Utilizing a Curandero in the United States
Authors: Favazza Titus Sharon K.
Published: December 2013

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review was to address two key questions: “Why do Hispanics seek a curandero?” And “How do Hispanics utilize the curandero?” Methods: The literature was reviewed using two databases—PubMed and CINAHL—during the period January 2000 to September 2012—and reference lists for potentially relevant studies. The search terms used were Hispanics/Latinos, curandero, CAM use, and traditional healers/medicine. Terms were searched in the keywords, title, and abstract. Findings: Of the 30 articles reviewed, 9 reflected the two key questions. Hispanics seek curanderos because they are affordable and are Spanish literate. Less common reasons include immigration status, culturally appropriate, spiritual healing, acculturation, and dissatisfaction with Western medicine. Hispanics utilize curanderos for a range of illnesses, including folk illnesses and treatments that may be unfamiliar to health care practitioners. Implications: Utilization of a curandero among the U.S. Hispanics was the focus of only four nursing articles on the practice of curanderos, but these did not address nursing implications. Knowledge of Hispanic folk illnesses and treatments is important in providing culturally appropriate holistic care. Furthermore, patient disclosure about the use of curanderos and folk remedies given may be critical to Western medical providers and the treatments they give.
Trends in clinical characteristics of HIV-infected patients initiating antiretroviral therapy in Shanghai from 2006 to 2011
Authors: Shen Y , Wang J , Qi T , Wang Z , Lu H
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to characterise the clinical characteristics of HIV-infected patients accessing antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Shanghai, China, from 2006 to 2011. We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who initiated ART in Shanghai during the 6-year period of 2006 through 2011. The median age at ART initiation decreased from 41 years in 2008 to 38 years in 2011. The median CD4 counts at ART initiation rose from 65 cells/mm3 in 2006 to 203 cells/mm3 in 2011. The proportion of patients with CD4 counts <200 cells/mm3 at ART initiation decreased from 88.5% in 2006 to 49.6% in 2011. The proportion of patients starting stavudine-based regimens of stavudine/lamivudine/efavirenz and stavudine/lamivudine/nevirapine fell from 49.2% in 2006 to 23.4% in 2011. The proportion of patients starting nevirapine-based regimens of zidovudine/lamivudine/nevirapine and stavudine/lamivudine/nevirapine fell from 44.3% in 2006 to 16.5% in 2011. The study reflects that the clinical characteristics of the patients initiating ART in Shanghai have changed over time; ART was increasingly provided in patients with higher CD4 counts; and the regimens containing stavudine were prescribed less frequently. Strategies to facilitate early access to ART and further reduction in stavudine use are needed.
Nanoparticles found in superheated steam: a quantitative analysis of possible heterogeneous condensation nuclei
Authors: Kolovratník M , Hrubý J , Ždímal V , Bartoš O , Jiříček I , Moravec P , Zíková N
Published: December 2013

The number of nanoparticles available as nucleation sites for heterogeneous nucleation of droplets in the steam turbine is an important parameter for the modelling of the non-equilibrium condensation process. In this paper, measurements of particles of sizes down to 3 nm are reported. Superheated steam was sampled at Power Plant Prunéřov II using a special sampling device avoiding sample condensation. Samples were taken at two pressure and temperature levels: 0.133 MPa, 174 ℃ and 0.27 MPa, 250 ℃. The number of particles was determined as 1.5 × 109 per kg of steam at the lower pressure and as 2.5 × 109 at the higher pressure. A diffusion battery was used to determine the size distribution of particles instead of the previously used scanning mobility particle sizer. The size distribution was obtained by deconvolution of particle concentrations obtained for various numbers of screens. Compared to the scanning mobility particle sizer results, the diffusion battery revealed a smaller geometric mean particle size.
Reconstruction of Holocene coastal progradation on the east coast of Korea based on OSL dating and GPR surveys of beach-foredune ridges
Authors: Choi Kwang Hee , Choi Jeong-Heon , Kim Jong Wook
Published: December 2013

Coastal dunefields along the east coast of Korea have long been thought to have originated from beach ridges that prograded during the Holocene, but there has been little chronological evidence based on absolute dating. In this paper, we use optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating and ground-penetrating radar (GPR) surveys to reconstruct the coastal progradation of Anin dunefield in the Gangneung area on the east coast of Korea. GPR profiles and sedimentological analyses of four beach-foredune ridges reveal that the ridges are composed mainly of beach deposits showing seaward-dipping and horizontal laminae, capped by eolian sands with landward-dipping laminae. The beach deposits are, in places, underlain by fluvial sands with gravels. Coupled with data from OSL dating, we interpret these results to mean that the fluvial sands and rounded cobbles were deposited in the study area, during the last glacial period. Between the mid-Holocene (~6.5 kyr) and c. 3.5–3.0 kyr, the transgression rate of the sea decreased and coastal progradation occurred. Between c. 3.5 and 3.0 kyr, foreshore sediments, including granules and pebbles, accumulated over the older beach deposits, indicating erosional events. Progradation resumed at ~3.0 kyr and continues to the present. During the past 3 kyr, there has been an average rate of progradation of ~0.14 m/yr. The beach-foredune ridges in the Gangneung area represent the evolution of coastal progradation on the east coast of Korea during the Holocene.
Communicating through humour: A project of stand-up comedy about science
Authors: Pinto Bruno , Marçal David , Vaz Sofia G.
Published: December 2013

A study of a project on science stand-up comedy developed in Portugal between 2009 and 2013 is presented, in which thirteen scientists, coordinated by a science communicator and a professional actor, created and presented comedy acts. Eleven of these scientists were asked about their motivations to participate, the process of performance development and the perceived value of the project. Personal motivations were highly important, but professional reasons were also mentioned. Working in a group with the guidance of coordinators, testing and re-writing the texts and gradually gaining confidence on stage were considered fundamental in the development of the shows. Additionally, a questionnaire revealed that the audience, most of whom were young adults, and held a higher education degree, were satisfied with the show. Overall, both participating scientists and audience members considered that stand-up comedy has potential for science communication.
Weissella confusa septicemia in a foal
Authors: Lawhon Sara D. , Lopez Franklin R. , Joswig Amanda , Black Hannah C. , Watts Ashlee E. , Norman Tracy E. , Porter Brian F.
Published: December 2013

Weissella confusa is a Gram-positive bacterium that has been identified in environmental and food samples from around the world. Rare cases of bacteremia in immunocompromised people have been reported. A 2-day-old foal was presented for weakness and suspected sepsis. Blood culture yielded pure growth of a Gram-positive coccobacillus, which was identified as W. confusa through sequencing of the 16S ribosomal DNA. Although the foal initially responded to antimicrobial therapy with ceftiofur and metronidazole, it later developed septic complications of the right tarsocrural joint and right digital flexor tendon sheath and was euthanized. Postmortem examination and histology revealed subcutaneous icterus, severe diffuse interstitial pneumonia, septic synovitis, necrotizing vasculitis with marked thrombosis and hemorrhage in the medial digital vessels of the right hind limb, and ischemic necrosis of the right hind hoof laminae. Gram-positive, coccobacilli were observed in the vascular lesion.
Primary Intraosseous Schwannoma in Tibial Epiphysis With Unique Immunohistochemical Phenotype
Authors: Wang Tao , Giugale Juan M. , Ding Ming , Goodman Mark A. , Schoedel Karen , Rao Uma N. M.
Published: December 2013

Schwannoma is a benign peripheral nerve sheath neoplasm of soft tissue that consistently demonstrates immunohistochemical staining for S100 protein. Intraosseous location of schwannoma is very uncommon. We report the first case of an intraosseous schwannoma located in the epiphysis of tibia in an adult patient. Radiologically, it mimicked a primary bone tumor and despite benign histological appearance, the tumor eroded cortical bone. Morphologically on routine stains and electron microscopy it has features of a schwannoma. But by immunohistochemistry, the tumor was positive for both desmin and S100 protein in the same region.
A Clinicopathologic Analysis of 207 Cases of Benign Fibro-Osseous Lesions of the Jaws
Authors: Phattarataratip Ekarat , Pholjaroen Chanajit , Tiranon Prawwalee
Published: December 2013

Benign fibro-osseous lesion (BFOL) is a distinct group of jaw entities composed of fibrocellular tissue and mineralized materials. In this study, we examined the epidemiological, clinical, and pathological features of patients with BFOL. Records and microslides of 207 BFOLs submitted to pathology service were retrospectively reviewed. Overall, fibrous dysplasia (FD) was the most prevalent (36.7%), followed by ossifying fibroma (OF; 32.4%), osseous dysplasia (OD; 24.6%), and juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF; 6.3%). Female predilection was noted. FD and JOF were common in maxilla, whereas most OF and OD affected the mandible. Most patients with FD and OF presented with painless swelling, while patients with OD were symptomless. The majority of FD specimens showed woven bone, while a mixture of woven bone and cementum-like materials was often noted in OF and OD. Our data show variations in the clinicopathologic features of BFOLs. A thorough examination of all aspects of BFOL patients is imperative for accurate diagnosis.