bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fc gamma receptor IIIa polymorphisms in advanced colorectal cancer patients correlated with response to anti-EGFR antibodies and clinical outcome
Authors: Calemma Rosa , Ottaiano Alessandro , Trotta Anna Maria , Nasti Guglielmo , Romano Carmela , Napolitano Maria , Galati Domenico , Borrelli Pasquale , Zanotta Serena , Cassata Antonino , Castello Giuseppe , Iaffaioli Vincenzo Rosario , Scala Stefania
Published: January 2013

Background

Anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies have shown efficacy in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). One of the mechanism is the antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) in which Fc region of the antibody binds to the Fc gamma receptors (FcγR) expressed by immune cells. The present study investigated the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms of FcγRIIa and FcγRIIIa and clinical outcome in mCRC treated with anti-EGFR antibodies.

Methods

Seventy-four consecutive patients with mCRC were analyzed. The genotypes for FcγRIIa-131 histidine (H)/arginine (R), FcγRIIIa-158 valine (V)/phenylanaline (F) polymorphisms were evaluated by directly sequencing. Multiplex allele-specific polymerase chain reaction was performed for FcγRIIIa-158 valine (V)/phenylanaline (F). Correlations between FcγR polymorphisms, baseline patient and tumor features were studied by contingency tables and the chi-square test. The Kaplan-Meier product limit method was applied to the progression-free survival (PFS) curves. Univariate analysis was performed with the log-rank test. Cox proportional-hazards regression was used to analyze the effect of multiple risk factors on PFS.

Results

FcγRIIIa polymorphisms were significantly associated with response to anti-EGFR-based therapy in 49 patients with kras wt tumors (p=0.035). There was not association with response for FcγRIIa polymorphisms. Furthermore, obtained results suggested that prognosis is particularly unfavorable for patients carrying the FcγRIIIa-158F/F genotype (median PFS V/V, V/F, F/F: 18.2 vs 17.3 vs 9.4 months). No prognostic ability was identified for FcγRIIa polymorphisms.

Conclusions

In mCRC patients the presence of FcγRIIIa-F can predict resistance to anti-EGFR therapy and unfavorable prognosis.
Intelligent context-aware energy management using the incremental simultaneous method in future wireless sensor networks and computing systems
Authors: Nam Yunyoung , Rho Seungmin , Lee Bok-gi
Published: January 2013

In this article, we present an intelligent context-aware energy management for saving home energy consumption using activities of daily living. In order to extract energy-consuming patterns, we analyze daily activities, which are collected from location sensors and electronic appliances. In addition, we construct an energy management model using the incremental statistical method, which is improved by the ISM-based adaptive model using house construction and location of electronic devices. Furthermore, we provide a simulator that conducts the various functions using the energy-consuming patterns and present the simulation results for the verification and efficiency of our model.
Enhanced 5-methylcytosine detection in single-molecule, real-time sequencing via Tet1 oxidation
Authors: Clark Tyson A , Lu Xingyu , Luong Khai , Dai Qing , Boitano Matthew , Turner Stephen W , He Chuan , Korlach Jonas
Published: January 2013

Background

DNA methylation serves as an important epigenetic mark in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. In eukaryotes, the most common epigenetic mark is 5-methylcytosine, whereas prokaryotes can have 6-methyladenine, 4-methylcytosine, or 5-methylcytosine. Single-molecule, real-time sequencing is capable of directly detecting all three types of modified bases. However, the kinetic signature of 5-methylcytosine is subtle, which presents a challenge for detection. We investigated whether conversion of 5-methylcytosine to 5-carboxylcytosine using the enzyme Tet1 would enhance the kinetic signature, thereby improving detection.

Results

We characterized the kinetic signatures of various cytosine modifications, demonstrating that 5-carboxylcytosine has a larger impact on the local polymerase rate than 5-methylcytosine. Using Tet1-mediated conversion, we show improved detection of 5-methylcytosine using in vitro methylated templates and apply the method to the characterization of 5-methylcytosine sites in the genomes of Escherichia coli MG1655 and Bacillus halodurans C-125.

Conclusions

We have developed a method for the enhancement of directly detecting 5-methylcytosine during single-molecule, real-time sequencing. Using Tet1 to convert 5-methylcytosine to 5-carboxylcytosine improves the detection rate of this important epigenetic marker, thereby complementing the set of readily detectable microbial base modifications, and enhancing the ability to interrogate eukaryotic epigenetic markers.
High prevalence of hepatitis B virus genotype C/C1 in the Minangkabau ethnic group in Indonesia
Authors: Siburian Marlinang D , Utama Andi , Dhenni Rama , Arnelis  , Fanany Ismail , Intan Mariana DB , Kurniasih Tri S , Andriani Febi , Afadlal Szeifoul , Julianto Erlys B , Rasman Widyarman S , Zubir Nasrul , Mathew George
Published: January 2013

Background

The Minangkabau is one of the major ethnic groups in Indonesia. Previous studies with a limited number of samples have shown a different prevalence of HBV/C in the Minangkabau compared to the Indonesian population in general. The aim of this study was to assess the HBV genotype distribution pattern and the prevalence of pre-S, T1753V and A1762T/G1764A mutations among the Minangkabau HBV carriers. The samples were collected from Padang, West Sumatera and from western Java. Mixed primers for specific genotypes were used to determine the HBV genotype. Pre-S or S genes were amplified, sequenced and aligned with reference sequences from GenBank to derive a phylogenetic tree for subgenotyping. Pre-S genes were also analyzed for mutations. The basal core promoter (BCP) region was amplified and directly sequenced to analyze T1753V and A1762T/G1764A mutations.

Results

The predominant HBV genotype among the Minangkabau HBV carriers (n=117) was C (72.6%) followed by B (24.8%) and co-infection with B and C (2.6%). The prevalence of pre-S mutations, including both the pre-S deletion and pre-S2 start codon mutation, was 41.0%, and the T1753V and A1762T/G1764A mutations were found in 51.9% and 71.2% respectively. HBV/C1 was the predominant HBV subgenotype in the Minangkabau HBV carriers, and was found in 66.2%, followed by B3, B7, C8, B2, B9, C2, and C10 (18.3%, 7.0%, 2.8%, 1.4%, 1.4%, 1.4%, and 1.4% respectively). From samples that were found to be co-infected with HBV B and C, two samples were successfully cloned and subgenotyped, including one with mixed subgenotypes of B3 and C1, and another one with mixed subgenotypes of B7, C1, putative intergenotypic of B/A, and C/A. Furthermore, three samples from donors of non-Minangkabau ethnicity from Padang were found to be infected with an intragenotypic recombination form, including a putative recombinant of B8/B3 and B9/B7.

Conclusion

HBV/C with subgenotype C1 was the predominant HBV genotype among HBV carriers of Minangkabau ethnicity. The prevalence of pre-S, A1762T/G1764A, and T1753V mutations was higher among the Minangkabau compared to Indonesian HBV carriers in general.
Signaling dynamics of palmitate-induced ER stress responses mediated by ATF4 in HepG2 cells
Authors: Cho Hyunju , Wu Ming , Zhang Linxia , Thompson Ryan , Nath Aritro , Chan Christina
Published: January 2013

Background

Palmitic acid, the most common saturated free fatty acid, has been implicated in ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress-mediated apoptosis. This lipoapotosis is dependent, in part, on the upregulation of the activating transcription factor-4 (ATF4). To better understand the mechanisms by which palmitate upregulates the expression level of ATF4, we integrated literature information on palmitate-induced ER stress signaling into a discrete dynamic model. The model provides an in silico framework that enables simulations and predictions. The model predictions were confirmed through further experiments in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells and the results were used to update the model and our current understanding of the signaling induced by palmitate.

Results

The three key things from the in silico simulation and experimental results are: 1) palmitate induces different signaling pathways (PKR (double-stranded RNA-activated protein kinase), PERK (PKR-like ER kinase), PKA (cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase A) in a time dependent-manner, 2) both ATF4 and CREB1 (cAMP-responsive element-binding protein 1) interact with the Atf4 promoter to contribute to a prolonged accumulation of ATF4, and 3) CREB1 is involved in ER-stress induced apoptosis upon palmitate treatment, by regulating ATF4 expression and possibly Ca2+ dependent-CaM (calmodulin) signaling pathway.

Conclusion

The in silico model helped to delineate the essential signaling pathways in palmitate-mediated apoptosis.
Living with severe allergy: an Anaphylaxis Campaign national survey of young people
Authors: Worth Allison , Regent Lynne , Levy Mark , Ledford Carey , East Mandy , Sheikh Aziz
Published: January 2013

Background

The transition to adulthood can be particularly challenging for young people with severe allergies, who must learn to balance personal safety with independent living. Information and support for young people and their families are crucial to successfully managing this transition. We sought to: gather insights into the impact of severe allergies on the lives of young people; explore where young people go for information about anaphylaxis and what information they want and need; identify areas where further support is needed.

Methods

An online questionnaire survey of young people aged 15–25 years with severe allergies in the United Kingdom (UK) was conducted on behalf of the Anaphylaxis Campaign, the main patient support organisation. Participants were recruited mainly from the Anaphylaxis Campaign membership database and also via allergy clinics and social media. The study was funded by the Anaphylaxis Campaign's In Memoriam Fund.

Results

A total of 520 young people responded to the survey. The majority had lived with severe allergies since they were young children; 59% reported having attended Accident and Emergency units as a consequence of their allergies. Only 66% of respondents reported always carrying their epinephrine auto‐injectors; only 23% had ever used these. Few were currently receiving specialist allergy care; younger respondents were more likely to be under specialist care (34%) than those 18 years and above (23%). Respondents wanted more information about eating out (56%), travelling (54%) and food labelling (43%). Almost a quarter of respondents (23%) reported needing more information on managing their allergies independently without parental help. Managing allergies in the context of social relationships was a concern for 22% of respondents.

Conclusions

This survey has identified the information and support needs and gaps in service provision for young people with severe allergies. Healthcare professionals and patient support organisations, with the support of the food industry, can help to meet these needs.
Renal manifestations of severe Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome: a case report
Authors: Chong Yih Harng , Taylor Barry J , Wheeler Benjamin J
Published: January 2013

Introduction

Rabson-Mendenhall Syndrome (RMS) is a rare form of severe insulin resistance due to a recessive mutation of the insulin receptor. Associated manifestations include facial dysmorphism, skin abnormalities, and renal anomalies.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 13 year old African female with RMS, severe insulin resistance, and a cluster of renal pathologies including nephromegaly, nephrolithiasis, hydronephrosis, and medullary sponge kidney.

Conclusion

This is the first case of severe insulin resistance associated with the collection of renal conditions described. We postulate that renal conditions present in RMS may be under recognised, and recommend screening for the above conditions. This case adds to the scarce body of literature of associated renal manifestations with RMS, including medullary sponge kidney, across the spectrum of insulin resistance.
Association of metabolic syndrome with inflammatory mediators in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Edalat Banoo , Sharifi Farshad , Badamchizadeh Zohre , Hossein-Nezhad Arash , Larijani Bagher , Mirarefin Mojde , Fakhrzadeh Hossein
Published: January 2013

Background

An increased risk of metabolic syndrome (MS) has been observed among women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM). Increased inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) usually accompany. We performed this survey to examine the relationship between pGDM and MS, CRP and IL-6.

Methods

77 women with pGDM and 67 randomly sampled women free from GDM participated in this study, 2–3 years after index pregnancy. Laboratory and anthropometric measurements were performed. MS was defined according to ATP III criteria. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 18.

Results

CRP were different between groups with and without pGDM [2.69 (2.86 mg/dl and 1.56 (1.39) mg/dl, respectively; p < 0.01]. The presence of each MS component by itself was associated with significantly higher CRP Levels, except for fasting blood glucose. In linear regression models, CRP and IL-6 were significantly associated with BMI (β =0. 25, 0.23; p < 0.01), waist circumference (β=0. 27, 0.05; p < 0.01) and HOMA-IR (β=0. 39, 0.39; p < 0.01). After adjustment for age and BMI the occurrence of pGDM in the group with both high CRP and MS was significantly associated with CRP level (OR= 5.11; CI=1.59-16.43; p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Since CRP and Il-6 were higher in women with both pGDM and MS it appears that the presence of pGDM with MS components have a synergistic effect on the elevation of serum levels of inflammatory markers which can be partly as a result of visceral obesity. Further long-term studies are necessary to confirm the relationship between CRP, IL-6 and MS in women with pGDM.
Impaired beta cell function is present in nondiabetic rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Ferraz-Amaro Iván , García-Dopico Jose A , Medina-Vega Lilian , González-Gay Miguel A , Díaz-González Federico
Published: January 2013

Introduction

To investigate how markers of β-cell secretion (proinsulin-processing metabolites) are expressed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and their potential relation with the insulin resistance (IR) observed in these patients.

Methods

The 101 RA patients and 99 nondiabetic sex- and age-matched controls were included. IR by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA2), and β-cell secretion, as measured by insulin, split and intact proinsulin, and C-peptide levels were determined for both groups. Multiple regression analysis was performed to compare IR between groups and to explore the interrelations between RA features, proinsulin metabolites, and IR. Data were adjusted for glucocorticoids intake and for IR classic risk factors.

Results

Compared with controls, RA patients showed higher HOMA-IR (β coef., 0.40 (95% CI, 0.20 to 0.59); P = 0.00). When data were adjusted for glucocorticoids intake, noncorticosteroid patients maintained a higher IR index (β, 0.14 (0.05 to 0.24); P = 0.00). Impaired insulin processing in RA patients was detected by the onset of elevated split proinsulin levels (β, 0.70 pmol/L (0.38 to 1.02); P = 0.00). These data remained significant also when adjusted for prednisone intake (β, 0.19 (0.00 to 0.36) pmol/L; P = 0.04). Split proinsulin-to-C-peptide ratios were higher in RA patients undergoing corticosteroid therapy (β, 0.25 (0.12 to 0.38); P = 0.03) and were nearly significant in comparison between noncorticosteroids patients and controls (β, 0.16 (-0.02 to 0.34); P = 0.08). Interestingly, the impact of HOMA-IR on the ratio of intact proinsulin to C-peptide was higher in controls compared with patients (β, 6.23 (1.41 to 11.06) versus 0.43 (-0.86 to 1.71); P = 0.03).

Conclusions

β-Cell function is impaired in nondiabetic and in RA patients not taking corticoids by a mechanism that seems to be, at least in part, independent of IR.
Reversal of Diet-Induced Obesity Increases Insulin Transport into Cerebrospinal Fluid and Restores Sensitivity to the Anorexic Action of Central Insulin in Male Rats
Authors: Begg Denovan P. , Mul Joram D. , Liu Min , Reedy Brianne M. , D'Alessio David A. , Seeley Randy J. , Woods Stephen C.
Published: January 2013

Diet-induced obesity (DIO) reduces the ability of centrally administered insulin to reduce feeding behavior and also reduces the transport of insulin from the periphery to the central nervous system (CNS). The current study was designed to determine whether reversal of high-fat DIO restores the anorexic efficacy of central insulin and whether this is accompanied by restoration of the compromised insulin transport. Adult male Long-Evans rats were initially maintained on either a low-fat chow diet (LFD) or a high-fat diet (HFD). After 22 weeks, half of the animals on the HFD were changed to the LFD, whereas the other half continued on the HFD for an additional 8 weeks, such that there were 3 groups: 1) a LFD control group (Con; n = 18), 2) a HFD-fed, DIO group (n = 17), and 3) a HFD to LFD, DIO-reversal group (DIO-rev; n = 18). The DIO reversal resulted in a significant reduction of body weight and epididymal fat weight relative to the DIO group. Acute central insulin administration (8 mU) reduced food intake and caused weight loss in Con and DIO-rev but not DIO rats. Fasting cerebrospinal fluid insulin was higher in DIO than Con animals. However, after a peripheral bolus injection of insulin, cerebrospinal fluid insulin increased in Con and DIO-rev rats but not in the DIO group. These data provide support for previous reports that DIO inhibits both the central effects of insulin and insulin's transport to the CNS. Importantly, DIO-rev restored sensitivity to the effects of central insulin on food intake and insulin transport into the CNS.
Du Bellay’s Petrarchan Politics: Violence and Imitation in theOliveand theDeffence
Authors: Nazarian Cynthia
Published: January 2013

This essay examines images of violence in the first French sonnet sequence, Joachim Du Bellay’s Olive, alongside his protonationalist manifesto, the Deffence et illustration de la langue françoyse. Through the omnipresent imagery of violence that links these texts, Nazarian explores the wider political stakes of imitation in Du Bellay’s works. The Olive showcases French poetic and cultural superiority through bloody images of mutilation and consumption of Italian sources, reshaping Petrarchism into an attack on Italy as beloved. The sonnets and manifesto jointly target the Holy Roman Empire of Charles V through shared metaphors of imperial conquest, looting, and war.
Ulyssesas Self-Help Manual? James Joyce’s Strategic Populism
Authors: Blum Beth
Published: January 2013

This essay uses “self-help” guides to James Joyce as an occasion to illuminate the buried history of modernism’s engagement with popular morality. It suggests that the birth of Joyce’s aesthetic—and, by extension, of modernism more broadly—is attributable to early twentieth-century debates over literature’s social use, debates that had far-reaching political and national implications. As a corollary, the essay undermines idealized portraits of “oracular” Joyce by showing Ulysses to be firmly a product of the contentions of its day. Far from a source of alienation, didacticism offers a means of reclaiming literature for popular readers.
Rethinking Transcendentalism: Perry Miller, Truman Nelson, and Thoreau’s “Lost Journal”
Authors: Ronda Bruce
Published: January 2013

Perry Miller’s 1958 edition of Henry David Thoreau’s “lost journal” for 1840–41, with its long and condescending introduction, prompted the leftist novelist Truman Nelson to engage in a bitter correspondence with Van Wyck Brooks and others, critiquing Miller’s approach to Thoreau and transcendentalism and offering a reading that emerged from Nelson’s Marxist outlook. This essay explores Miller’s penchant for existentialist readings of historical-literary figures and movements, which clashed with Nelson’s materialist interpretation of antebellum culture. Although these two approaches seem incommensurate, a more holistic view of transcendentalism results from acknowledging both: Miller’s preference for accounts of individual struggle, self-doubt, and ambiguity and Nelson’s insistence on the transcendentalists’ embrace of movements for social change.
Article Commentary: Acute Heart Failure: Is it Peripartum Cardiomyopathy or Not?
Authors: Bachelier-Walenta Katrin , Hilfiker-Kleiner Denise , Sliwa Karen
Published: January 2013

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a potentially life-threatening disease that occurs in women of childbearing age.
An Improved Model for the Performance Estimation of an H-Darrieus Wind Turbine in Skewed Flow
Authors: Bianchini Alessandro , Ferrara Giovanni , Ferrari Lorenzo , Magnani Sandro
Published: January 2013

Small turbines are considered one of the most promising technologies for an effective diffusion of renewable energy sources in new installation contexts with a high degree of integration with human activity (e.g. the urban environment). In these new installations, however, the real working conditions can be far from the nominal ones. In particular, the turbine functioning can be noticeably affected by misalignments between the oncoming flow and the axis of the rotor; differently from horizontal-axis wind turbines, whose performance is decreased by a skew angle, H-Darrieus turbines are thought to take advantage from this condition in some cases.

In this study, an improved model for the performance prediction of H-Darrieus rotors under skewed flow was developed. In detail, a theoretical approach based on Momentum Models was properly modified to account for the variations induced by the new direction of the flow which invests the rotor. In particular, the modifications in the aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoils, the swept area and the streamtubes distribution were modeled. The performance predictions of the new model were compared both with experimental data available in the technical literature and with the results of wind tunnel tests purposefully carried out on a full scale model of an H-Darrieus turbine. Notable agreement has been constantly obtained between simulations and experiments.
Transient Stability Enhancement of a Wind Energy Distributed Generation System by Using Fuzzy Logic Stabilizers
Authors: Ebrahim M. A. , El-Metwally K. A. , Bendary F. M. , Mansour W. M.
Published: January 2013

This paper proposes a new power system stabilizer based on fuzzy systems. The new controller is applied to a wind turbine generating system comprising of a wind turbine driving a 3 - phase synchronous generator connected to a large power system. The new controller significantly improves system performance. The enhancement in the dynamic response of the system is verified through simulation results of a system under different operating points and exposed to both small and large disturbances. Extension to the wind energy distributed generation based multi-machine case is also included to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed stabilizer in damping power system swing mode oscillations that follow disturbances.
Assessment of Extremum Seeking Control for Wind Farm Energy Production
Authors: Johnson Kathryn E. , Fritsch Geraldine
Published: January 2013

Aerodynamic interaction among turbines grouped together in wind farms causes a decrease in the total energy extracted from the wind when compared to an equal number of widely dispersed turbines operating under the same wind input conditions as the wind farm. Extremum seeking control (ESC) is one strategy that holds promise for reducing this impact under certain wind input conditions. In this paper, we evaluate the effectiveness of ESC under different turbulence conditions, describing methods for addressing the complexities caused by the turbulent wind input and time-varying delay of the wind between turbines, where these two elements are the most important contributions compared to other wind farm control research. The results show that energy capture can be increased in low turbulence intensity conditions, but perhaps not in high turbulence conditions.
Experimental study of nano-modified lime-based grouts
Authors: Papayianni Ioanna , Pachta Vasiliki , Stefanidou Maria
Published: January 2013

Grouts are fluid mixtures of binders with water, for the filling and strengthening of masonry or the consolidation and preservation of mortar stratification. In this paper, totally 15 compositions of lime-based grout mixtures containing admixtures and silica nano-particles were designed, manufactured and experimentally tested in order to evaluate their properties in fresh (fluidity, permeability, volume stability) and hardened state (shrinkage deformations, mechanical strength). Conclusive remarks were attained regarding the influence of silica nano-particles in grouts performance.
Implementing built-in self-test environment for cores-based digital circuits with Verilog HDL
Authors: Das Sunil , Jin Liwu , Assaf Mansour , Biswas Satyendra , Petriu Emil
Published: January 2013

The implementation of fault testing environment for embedded cores-based digital circuits is a challenging endeavor. The subject paper aims developing techniques in design verification and test architecture utilizing well-known concepts of hardware and software co-design. There are available methods to ensure correct functionality, in both hardware and software, for embedded cores-based systems but one of the most used and acceptable approaches to realize this is through the use of design-for-testability (DFT). Specifically, applications of built-in self-test (BIST) methodology in testing embedded cores are considered in the paper, with specific implementations being targeted towards the International Symposium on Circuits and Systems (ISCAS) 85 combinational benchmark circuits.
Interactions between TiAl Alloy and Different Oxide Moulds under High-temperature and Long-time Condition
Authors: Cui Yongshuang , Tang Xiaoxia , Gao Ming , Ma Limin , Hu Zhang
Published: January 2013

Interactions between Ti-47Al-2Cr-2Nb (at.%) alloy and alumina, zirconia and yttria moulds were studied under high-temperature and long-time condition, and the reaction mechanisms were explored. The moulds were prepared by traditional precision casting technique, and the experiments were carried out in a carbon resistance furnace at 1550°C for 30 min. The results indicated that the interfacial reactions between TiAl alloys and alumina and zirconia moulds were serious. Obvious reaction layers composed of Ti-rich phases and Al2O3 inclusions were formed on the alloy-mould interfaces, and a large amount of dark Al2O3 inclusions were found in the alloy matrixes. Interaction between TiAl and yttria mould was mild. No obvious reaction layer was formed on the alloy-mould interface, and only a small amount of white inclusions inferred as Al-Y oxide were found in the alloy matrix. Al2O3 and ZrO2 cannot be used as mould materials for the directional solidification of TiAl alloys. Y2O3 mould possesses a higher stability, which can be used in the directional solidification of TiAl alloys by the proper choice of more stable binder.
Thermodynamic Database of P2O5-containing Oxide Systems for the Dephosphorization Process in Steelmaking
Authors: Jung In-Ho , Hudon Pierre , Kim Wan-Yi , van Ende Marie-Aline , Rahman Miftaur , Curiel Gabriel Garcia
Published: January 2013

The Na2O-MgO-CaO-FeO-Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2-P2O5 system is a basic oxide system for the Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) process as well as the hot metal dephosphorization process. Numerous experimental investigations on this oxide system are being carried out to find out an advanced process route for P removal from molten iron. In spite of their industrial importance, however, phase equilibria in oxide systems containing P2O5 have not been well investigated due to the complexity of their chemistry. No systematic thermodynamic modeling of these systems has been conducted to date, either. In order to meet the strong demands of steelmaking and other industries, new systematic thermodynamic modeling of the P2O5-containing oxide systems (Na2O-MgO-CaO-FeO-Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2-P2O5) and key phase diagram experiments have been carried out over the past years. In the present study, the results of the thermodynamic modeling of unary, binary and ternary P2O5-containing systems and the applications of the thermodynamic database to the dephosphorization by multi-component slag in BOF process are presented in comparison with experimental data. All thermodynamic calculations were performed using FactSage thermodynamic software.
Analysis of the Raman Frequency Shifts for the Lattice Modes and Vibrons Related to the Thermodynamic Quantities in the η Phase of Solid Nitrogen
Authors: Yurtseven Hamit , Akay Özge
Published: January 2013

The thermodynamic quantities of the isothermal compressibility, thermal expansion and the specific heat are calculated here as a function of pressure by using the observed Raman frequencies of the lattice modes and vibrons in the η phase of solid nitrogen. The Pippard relations and their spectroscopic modifications are constructed, and the slope dP/dT is deduced from the Raman frequency shifts in this phase of N2. It is shown that the thermodynamic quantities can be predicted from the Raman frequency shifts, in particular, in the η phase of solid nitrogen.
Hitchcock’s Understyle: A Too-Close View of Rope
Authors: Miller D. A.
Published: January 2013

Disorganizing the narrative economy of Hitchcockian suspense and at odds with the formal perfection of the director’s acclaimed style, Rope’s secret understyle traffics in faults, oversights, and inelegancies of various kinds, all strangely accepted and even flaunted, rather than hidden, by the film. Though visible only to those who view Rope too closely, these errors touch on a central aspect of Hitchcock’s perfectionist art, disclosing an essentially imperfect Hitchcock, one who is endlessly and deliberately making and cleaning up messes, and whose very corrections cause further mistakes to proliferate.
In the Shadow of David’s Brutus
Authors: Chua Kevin
Published: January 2013

This essay rereads Jacques-Louis David’s The Lictors Bring to Brutus the Bodies of His Sons (1789)—long interpreted in terms of revolutionary virtue—in the light of Carl Schmitt’s theories of political foundation and sovereignty. By recovering the early complexity of the figure of Brutus, the essay shows how David’s painting anticipated the constitutional debates of September 1789.
Playground Safety and Quality in Chicago
Authors: Allen Erin M. , Hill Amy L. , Tranter Erma , Sheehan Karen M.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVES:

To assess playground safety and quality in Chicago, Illinois, identify disparities in access, and use the data to inform collaborative improvement.

METHODS:

A cross-sectional survey of public park playgrounds in Chicago, Illinois, was conducted in 2009, 2010, and 2011 by using the National Program for Playground Safety Standardized Survey. All playgrounds were surveyed in 2009 and 2010; those that failed in 2010 were resurveyed in 2011. Playgrounds were assessed in 4 main categories: age-appropriate design, fall surfacing, equipment maintenance, and physical environment. Safety scores were generated from the assessment. Geographic information system mapping provided a visual description of the playground pass/fail rate based on neighborhood, child population, race/ethnicity, and poverty level.

RESULTS:

Of the ∼500 playgrounds, 467 were assessed in 2009, and 459 were assessed in 2010. In 2009, half of all playgrounds (55%) and in 2010, nearly two-thirds (61%) earned scores consistent with safe playgrounds (P < .001). Playgrounds scored poorest in fall surfacing and equipment maintenance. Geographic information system mapping showed neighborhoods with a higher percentage of children and impoverished families had fewer playgrounds and more failing playgrounds. In 2011, 154 (85%) of the playgrounds that failed in 2010 were surveyed. The mean playground score among failing playgrounds improved significantly between 2010 (61%) and 2011 (67%, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Since the playground improvement initiative began in 2009, considerable progress has been made in the safety scores, although access to high-quality playgrounds varies by neighborhood. Many failing playgrounds can be brought up to standard with improvement in fall surfacing and equipment maintenance.
A Quality Improvement Intervention to Increase Access to Pediatric Subspecialty Practice
Authors: Heptulla Rubina A. , Choi Steven J. , Belamarich Peter F.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To improve access to new pediatric endocrinology appointments in an urban academic hospital faculty-based practice.

METHODS:

Three strategies were implemented to increase the number of appointment slots: new patient appointments were protected from conversion to follow-up appointments; all physicians, including senior faculty, were scheduled to see 3 to 4 new patients per session; and sessions devoted exclusively to follow-up appointments were added based on demand. The main outcomes for this quality improvement activity were waiting times for new and follow-up appointments, monthly visit volume, the per-provider visit volume, differences in the proportion of new visits, and clinic arrival rates pre- and postintervention.

RESULTS:

Thirteen months after the intervention, average wait for a new patient appointment decreased from 11.4 to 1.7 weeks (P < .001) and follow-up appointment wait time decreased from 8.2 to 2.9 weeks (P < .001). Mean monthly total visit volume increased from 284 to 366 patient visits (P < .01) and mean monthly visit volume per provider increased from 36.8 to 41.0 patients (P = .08). New patients were 27% of the visit volume and 35% after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS:

Access to our pediatric specialty care clinic was improved without increasing the number of providers by improved scheduling.
Newborn Mortality and Fresh Stillbirth Rates in Tanzania After Helping Babies Breathe Training
Authors: Msemo Georgina , Massawe Augustine , Mmbando Donan , Rusibamayila Neema , Manji Karim , Kidanto Hussein Lesio , Mwizamuholya Damas , Ringia Prisca , Ersdal Hege Langli , Perlman Jeffrey
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND:

Early neonatal mortality has remained high and unchanged for many years in Tanzania, a resource-limited country. Helping Babies Breathe (HBB), a novel educational program using basic interventions to enhance delivery room stabilization/resuscitation, has been developed to reduce the number of these deaths.

METHODS:

Master trainers from the 3 major referral hospitals, 4 associated regional hospitals, and 1 district hospital were trained in the HBB program to serve as trainers for national dissemination. A before (n = 8124) and after (n = 78 500) design was used for implementation. The primary outcomes were a reduction in early neonatal deaths within 24 hours and rates of fresh stillbirths (FSB).

RESULTS:

Implementation was associated with a significant reduction in neonatal deaths (relative risk [RR] with training 0.53; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.43–0.65; P ≤ .0001) and rates of FSB (RR with training 0.76; 95% CI 0.64–0.90; P = .001). The use of stimulation increased from 47% to 88% (RR 1.87; 95% CI 1.82–1.90; P ≤ .0001) and suctioning from 15% to 22% (RR 1.40; 95% CI 1.33–1.46; P ≤ .0001) whereas face mask ventilation decreased from 8.2% to 5.2% (RR 0.65; 95% CI 0.60–0.72; P ≤ .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

HBB implementation was associated with a significant reduction in both early neonatal deaths within 24 hours and rates of FSB. HBB uses a basic intervention approach readily applicable at all deliveries. These findings should serve as a call to action for other resource-limited countries striving to meet Millennium Development Goal 4.
Randomized Trial of Iron Supplementation versus Routine Iron Intake in VLBW Infants
Authors: Taylor Tiffany A. , Kennedy Kathleen A.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To determine if iron supplementation of 2 mg/kg per day, in addition to routine iron-fortified formula or mother's milk, increased the hematocrit (Hct) at 36 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA).

METHODS::

Infants with a birth weight <1500 g who reached 120 mL/kg per day of feedings before 32 weeks' PMA were randomly assigned to iron (multivitamin with iron) or control (multivitamin) from enrollment until 36 weeks' PMA (or discharge, if sooner). Investigators and caregivers were masked. Transfusion guidelines were used. The primary outcome was Hct at 36 weeks' PMA. A nonparametric rank sum analysis was performed so that infants who died before 36 weeks and infants who were transfused could be included in an intention-to-treat analysis. Infants were ranked by death (lowest rank) then by number of transfusions (next lowest ranks). For infants who survived and were not transfused, the 36-week PMA Hct was used for the rank.

RESULTS:

One hundred fifty infants were enrolled (76 iron, 74 controls). There were 2 deaths (1 in each group). One hundred other infants (47 iron, 53 controls) received transfusion(s). There was no significant difference in the primary outcome ranking (P = .59), in the number of transfusions per subject (P = .64), or in 36-week Hct (iron mean ± SD, 29.2% ± 4.0%; control, 28.3% ± 4.5%; mean difference and 95% confidence interval 0.9 [−0.5 to 2.3]; P = .21) or reticulocyte count among survivors. No short-term adverse effects of iron supplementation were observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Among infants <1500 g birth weight, iron supplementation, in addition to routine iron intake, did not significantly increase the 36-week Hct or the decrease number of transfusions.
Stillbirth and Newborn Mortality in India After Helping Babies Breathe Training
Authors: Goudar Shivaprasad S. , Somannavar Manjunath S. , Clark Robert , Lockyer Jocelyn M. , Revankar Amit P. , Fidler Herta M. , Sloan Nancy L. , Niermeyer Susan , Keenan William J. , Singhal Nalini
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE:

This study evaluated the effectiveness of Helping Babies Breathe (HBB) newborn care and resuscitation training for birth attendants in reducing stillbirth (SB), and predischarge and neonatal mortality (NMR). India contributes to a large proportion of the worlds annual 3.1 million neonatal deaths and 2.6 million SBs.

METHODS:

This prospective study included 4187 births at >28 weeks’ gestation before and 5411 births after HBB training in Karnataka. A total of 599 birth attendants from rural primary health centers and district and urban hospitals received HBB training developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, using a train-the-trainer cascade. Pre-post written trainee knowledge, posttraining provider performance and skills, SB, predischarge mortality, and NMR before and after HBB training were assessed by using χ2 and t-tests for categorical and continuous variables, respectively. Backward stepwise logistic regression analysis adjusted for potential confounding.

RESULTS:

Provider knowledge and performance systematically improved with HBB training. HBB training reduced resuscitation but increased assisted bag and mask ventilation incidence. SB declined from 3.0% to 2.3% (odds ratio [OR] 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.98) and fresh SB from 1.7% to 0.9% (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.37–0.78) after HBB training. Predischarge mortality was 0.1% in both periods. NMR was 1.8% before and 1.9% after HBB training (OR 1.09, 95% CI 0.80–1.47, P = .59) but unknown status at 28 days was 2% greater after HBB training (P = .007).

CONCLUSIONS:

HBB training reduced SB without increasing NMR, indicating that resuscitated infants survived the neonatal period. Monitoring and community-based assessment are recommended.
Hospital Admissions for Childhood Asthma After Smoke-Free Legislation in England
Authors: Millett Christopher , Lee John Tayu , Laverty Anthony A. , Glantz Stanton A. , Majeed Azeem
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To assess whether the implementation of English smoke-free legislation in July 2007 was associated with a reduction in hospital admissions for childhood asthma.

METHODS:

Interrupted time series study using Hospital Episodes Statistics data from April 2002 to November 2010. Sample consisted of all children (aged ≤14 years) having an emergency hospital admission with a principle diagnosis of asthma.

RESULTS:

Before the implementation of the legislation, the admission rate for childhood asthma was increasing by 2.2% per year (adjusted rate ratio 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.03). After implementation of the legislation, there was a significant immediate change in the admission rate of −8.9% (adjusted rate ratio 0.91; 95% CI: 0.89–0.93) and change in time trend of −3.4% per year (adjusted rate ratio 0.97; 95% CI: 0.96–0.98). This change was equivalent to 6802 fewer hospital admissions in the first 3 years after implementation. There were similar reductions in asthma admission rates among children from different age, gender, and socioeconomic status groups and among those residing in urban and rural locations.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings confirm those from a small number of previous studies suggesting that the well-documented population health benefits of comprehensive smoke-free legislation appear to extend to reducing hospital admissions for childhood asthma.
Process and progress of sintering behavior of Cu-Al2O3 composites
Authors: Dash K. , Panda S. , Ray B. C.
Published: January 2013

The sintering temperature plays a major role in determining the microstructural as well as mechanical properties of composite materials. Apart from temperature, there are many factors, such as reinforcement particle geometry and morphology, which directly affect the sintering behavior of the composites. This study emphasizes the role of reinforcement particle geometry in the differential sintering response of copper-alumina composite. The copper and alumina powders were blended, compacted and then sintered conventionally at various temperatures such as 900, 950 and 1000°C. The formation of an interfacial phase has been characterized by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The variations in hardness values were recorded with the variation of sintering temperature, and these have been correlated with the formation of the intermediate compound. The formation of an intermediate phase at 950°C, and the variation in the properties of the composite sketches the profile of interfacial kinetics of the copper-alumina interface when alumina is present as particulate. The decrease in hardness at 950°C indicates the formative stage of CuAlO2, and then an increase in hardness at 1000°C indicates the strengthening effect of the interfacial compound.
Smart surfaces by initiated chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Coclite Anna Maria
Published: January 2013

The ability to modify the surface of materials with functional and responsive coatings is a powerful tool for the fabrication of smart devices for biotechnology, microfluidics, membrane technology, sensors and drug delivery systems. A recently developed method for the deposition of polymeric thin films, called initiated chemical vapor deposition (iCVD) is reviewed here. The authors will describe the high versatility of iCVD in driving application-specific properties into the material, creating a platform for the implementation of polymeric coatings into device fabrication. The significant impact of this polymerization technique lies in the possibility of obtaining polymers with chemical structure similar to the one of the polymers synthesized by conventional techniques with the advantages of a solvent-free deposition, which is totally substrate independent. Deposition has been demonstrated on paper, metal, plastics, porous substrates and very recently liquids. Tuning the process parameters allows to obtain controlled and uniform thickness over 3D substrates. Future outlook and iCVD scale-up approaches are also discussed.
Scenarios involving future climate and water extraction: ecosystem states in the estuary of Australia's largest river
Authors: Lester Rebecca E. , Fairweather Peter G. , Webster Ian T. , Quin Rebecca A.
Published: January 2013

Management of natural resources, particularly water, increasingly requires that likely benefits of particular actions (e.g., allocating an environmental flow) are quantified in advance. Therefore, new techniques are required that enable those potential benefits to be objectively compared among competing options for management (e.g., compared to a “do nothing” scenario). Scenario modeling is one method for developing such an objective comparison. We used existing hydrologic, hydrodynamic, and ecosystem response models for a case study location, the Coorong, an inverse estuary in South Australia, to illustrate the potential for such scenario modeling to inform natural resource management. We modeled a set of 12 scenarios that included different levels of water extraction, potential future climate change, and sea‐level change, thereby enabling a comparison of the different drivers of possible future reductions in water availability in the Coorong. We discovered that potential future climate change combined with current extraction levels has the capacity to devastate the ecology of the Coorong, but also that much of the degradation could be averted by reducing upstream extractions of water. The inclusion of possible sea‐level change had a surprising effect, whereby higher sea levels increased hydrodynamic connectivity between the Coorong's two lagoons. Increased hydrodynamic connectivity limited the occurrence of extremely low water levels and high salinities due to evapoconcentration that were simulated for dry future climates in the absence of sea‐level rise. These findings strongly suggest that future ecological degradation in the Coorong is not a foregone conclusion, and that management decisions regarding water allocations upstream will determine the ecological future of this coastal lagoon.