bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group activity with Paro in nursing homes: systematic investigation of behaviors in participants
Authors: Jøranson Nina , Pedersen Ingeborg , Rokstad Anne Marie Mork , Aamodt Geir , Olsen Christine , Ihlebæk Camilla
Published: March 2016

Background:

A variety of group activities is promoted for nursing home (NH) residents with dementia with the aim to reduce apathy and to increase engagement and social interaction. Investigating behaviors related to these outcomes could produce insights into how the activities work. The aim of this study was to systematically investigate behaviors seen in people with dementia during group activity with the seal robot Paro, differences in behaviors related to severity of dementia, and to explore changes in behaviors.

Methods:

Thirty participants from five NHs formed groups of five to six participants at each NH. Group sessions with Paro lasted for 30 minutes twice a week during 12 weeks of intervention. Video recordings were conducted in the second and tenth week. An ethogram, containing 18 accurately defined and described behaviors, mapped the participants’ behaviors. Duration of behaviors, such as “Observing Paro,” “Conversation with Paro on the lap,” “Smile/laughter toward other participants,” were converted to percentage of total session time and analyzed statistically.

Results:

“Observing Paro” was observed more often in participants with mild to moderate dementia (p = 0.019), while the variable “Observing other things” occurred more in the group of severe dementia (p = 0.042). “Smile/laughter toward other participants” showed an increase (p = 0.011), and “Conversations with Paro on the lap” showed a decrease (p = 0.014) during the intervention period.

Conclusions:

Participants with severe dementia seemed to have difficulty in maintaining attention toward Paro during the group session. In the group as a whole, Paro seemed to be a mediator for increased social interactions and created engagement.
Factors associated with caregiver burden: comparative study between Brazilian and Spanish caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD)
Authors: Sousa Maria Fernanda B. , Santos Raquel L. , Turró-Garriga Oriol , Dias Rachel , Dourado Marcia C. N. , Conde-Sala Josep L.
Published: March 2016

Background:

Transcultural studies regarding the comparison of levels of burden in caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) from Europe and Latin America are rare. We designed this study to investigate the differentiating factors associated with burden in Brazilian and Spanish caregivers of patients with AD.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study composed by samples of outpatients with AD and their caregivers from Brazil (n = 128) and Spain (n = 146). Caregivers answered the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) and a Sociodemographic Questionnaire. Patients were assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Functional Activities Questionnaire (FAQ), Disability Assessment for Dementia (DAD), Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) Scale.

Results:

In the multivariate regression analysis, high burden levels were reported in Brazil, when caregivers were female (p = 0.025) and when patients did not attend Day Care Center (p = 0.025). In Spain, high burden levels were associated with living with the patient (p = 0.014), younger caregivers (p = 0.003), and participation of patients at Day Care Center (p = 0.046). Also, different neuropsychiatric symptoms explained high burden levels: in Brazil, depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p = 0.024) and, in Spain, apathy/indifference (p < 0.001), agitation/aggression (p = 0.019) and irritability/lability (p = 0.027).

Conclusions:

Caregivers’ gender, patients who attended Day Care Center and neuropsychiatric symptoms were differentiating factors in the burden of Brazilian and Spanish caregivers.
Voluntary Health Registry of French Nationals after the Great East Japan Earthquake, Tsunami, and Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident: Methods, Results, Implications, and Feedback
Authors: Motreff Yvon , Pirard Philippe , Lagrée Céline , Roudier Candice , Empereur-Bissonnet Pascal
Published: March 2016

Introduction

The 11th of March 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake struck alongside the north-east coast of Honshu Island, Japan, causing a tsunami and a major nuclear accident. The French Institute for Public Health Surveillance (InVS) set up, within one week after the triple catastrophe, an Internet-based registry for French nationals who were in Japan at the time of the disasters. In this string of disasters, in this context of uncertainties about the nuclear risks, the aim of this registry was to facilitate the: (1) realization of further epidemiologic studies, if needed; and (2) contact of people if a medical follow-up was needed. The purpose of this report was to describe how the health registry was set up, what it was used for, and to discuss further utilization and improvements to health registries after disasters.

Methods

The conception of the questionnaire to register French nationals was based on a form developed as part of the Steering Committee for the management of the post-accident phase in the event of nuclear accident or a radiological emergency situation (CODIRPA) work. The questionnaire was available online.

Results

The main objective was achieved since it was theoretically possible to contact again the 1,089 persons who completed the form. According to the data collected on their space-time budget, to the result of internal contamination measured by the French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) and dosimetric expertise published by the World Health Organization (WHO), it was not suitable to conduct an epidemiologic follow-up of adverse effects of exposure to ionizing radiations among them. However, this registry was used to launch a qualitative study on exposure to stress and psychosocial impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake on French nationals who were in Japan in March 2011.

Conclusion

Setting a registry after a disaster is a very important step in managing the various consequences of a disaster. This experience showed that it is quickly feasible and does not raise adverse side effects in involved people.

MotreffY, PirardP, LagréeC, RoudierC, Empereur-BissonnetP. Voluntary health registry of French nationals after the Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunami, and Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident: methods, results, implications, and feedback. Prehosp Disaster Med.2016;31(3):326–329.
On-scene Times for Inter-facility Transport of Patients with Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure
Authors: Wilcox Susan R. , Saia Mark S. , Waden Heather , McGahn Susan J. , Frakes Michael , Wedel Suzanne K. , Richards Jeremy B.
Published: March 2016

Introduction

Inter-facility transport of critically ill patients is associated with a high risk of adverse events, and critical care transport (CCT) teams may spend considerable time at sending institutions preparing patients for transport. The effect of mode of transport and distance to be traveled on on-scene times (OSTs) has not been well-described.

Problem

Quantification of the time required to package patients and complete CCTs based on mode of transport and distance between facilities is important for hospitals and CCT teams to allocate resources effectively.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of OSTs and transport times for patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure transported from October 2009 through December 2012 from sending hospitals to three tertiary care hospitals. Differences among the OSTs and transport times based on the mode of transport (ground, rotor wing, or fixed wing), distance traveled, and intra-hospital pick-up location (emergency department [ED] vs intensive care unit [ICU]) were assessed. Correlations between OSTs and transport times were performed based on mode of transport and distance traveled.

Results

Two hundred thirty-nine charts were identified for review. Mean OST was 42.2 (SD=18.8) minutes, and mean transport time was 35.7 (SD=19.5) minutes. On-scene time was greater than en route time for 147 patients and greater than total trip time for 91. Mean transport distance was 42.2 (SD=35.1) miles. There were no differences in the OST based on mode of transport; however, total transport time was significantly shorter for rotor versus ground, (39.9 [SD=19.9] minutes vs 54.2 [SD=24.7] minutes; P <.001) and for rotor versus fixed wing (84.3 [SD=34.2] minutes; P=0.02). On-scene time in the ED was significantly shorter than the ICU (33.5 [SD=15.7] minutes vs 45.2 [SD=18.8] minutes; P <.001). For all patients, regardless of mode of transportation, there was no correlation between OST and total miles travelled; although, there was a significant correlation between the time en route and distance, as well as total trip time and distance.

Conclusions

In this cohort of critically ill patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure, OST was over 40 minutes and was often longer than the total trip time. On-scene time did not correlate with mode of transport or distance traveled. These data can assist in planning inter-facility transports for both the sending and receiving hospitals, as well as CCT services.

WilcoxSR,SaiaMS,WadenH,McGahnSJ,FrakesM,WedelSK,RichardsJB.On-scene times for inter-facility transport of patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure.Prehosp Disaster Med.2016;31(3):267–271.
Improving Signal-to-Noise Ratio in Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Energy-Dispersive X-Ray (STEM-EDX) Spectrum Images Using Single-Atomic-Column Cross-Correlation Averaging
Authors: Jeong Jong Seok , Mkhoyan K. Andre
Published: March 2016

Acquiring an atomic-resolution compositional map of crystalline specimens has become routine practice, thus opening possibilities for extracting subatomic information from such maps. A key challenge for achieving subatomic precision is the improvement of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of compositional maps. Here, we report a simple and reliable solution for achieving high-SNR energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy spectrum images for individual atomic columns. The method is based on standard cross-correlation aided by averaging of single-column EDX maps with modifications in the reference image. It produces EDX maps with minimal specimen drift, beam drift, and scan distortions. Step-by-step procedures to determine a self-consistent reference map with a discussion on the reliability, stability, and limitations of the method are presented here.
The regulation of competition in the National Health Service (NHS): what difference has the Health and Social Care Act 2012 made?
Authors: Sanderson Marie , Allen Pauline , Osipovic Dorota
Published: March 2016

This article examines the impact of the Health and Social Care Act 2012 on the regulation of competition in the English National Health Service (NHS), by focussing on the change it marked from a system of sector-specific regulation to one which is clearly based in competition law. It has been suggested that the Act and its associated reforms would significantly alter accountability in the NHS, and would change decisions from the remit of public policy to that of the law. To assess the impact the Act has had in practice, the article compares the interpretation of the rules regarding competition in the NHS by the regulators of competition immediately before, and following, the passing of the Act. It argues that, whilst the reforms have the potential significantly to alter the way competition in the NHS is regulated, the impact of the reforms in this area is limited by the development of systems within the NHS to manage and resolve issues internally where possible.
Single layer single probe feed circularly polarized triple band fractal boundary microstrip antenna for wireless applications
Authors: Reddy V.V. , Sarma N.V.S.N.
Published: March 2016

Triple band circularly polarized fractal boundary microstrip antenna is proposed and experimentally studied. The two orthogonal sides of the square patch are replaced with asymmetrical fractal curves for circular polarization (CP) radiation. A 45° rotated asymmetrical fractal slot is embedded at the center of the fractal patch for triband CP operation. The indentation factors of the fractal curves are optimized for better CP emission. The inserted fractal slot redistributes the current elements on the patch for triband CP radiation. The proposed antenna is implemented over a single layer with a single probe feed, so it is simple to fabricate and is cost effective when compared with the existing stacked layered multiband antennas in the open literature. The measured 3 dB axial ratio bandwidths of the proposed antenna at 2.4, 3.4, and 5.8 GHz are 2, 1, and 1.8%, respectively, so it is well suited for WLAN and Wi-MAX wireless applications.
Small-size LTE/WWAN monopole antenna with octa-band operation for 4 G mobile phone
Authors: Lu Jui-Han , Fang Ying-Sheng
Published: March 2016

By introducing a modified F-shaped feeding strip and dual parasitic shorted strips, a small-size wireless wide area network/long-term evolution (WWAN/LTE) printed antenna is proposed and embedded in the 4 G mobile phone with octa-band operation. The operating impedance bandwidths (RL ≥ 6 dB) of 263/1093 MHz can be obtained across the LTE/WWAN bands, respectively. The overall antenna size of the proposed printed monopole antenna (MA) is only 35 × 10 × 0.8 mm3. Meanwhile, this small-size MA provides the measured peak gains and antenna efficiencies of 2.0/3.6 dBi and 80/75% for the LTE/WWAN bands, respectively.
High-performance MIMO imaging radar with hybrid transmit and receive arrays
Authors: Pham M. Nhat , Jacob Arne F.
Published: March 2016

In this study, a sparse multiple-input multiple-output radar system with difference co-array processing is presented. It consists of two non-uniform transmitter arrays in split configuration and a symmetrical hybrid receiver array. A combination of a periodically thinned array and two non-uniform sub-arrays is used to construct the receiver structure. A low-cost three-step optimization procedure is proposed to synthesize the array arrangement with system constraints. In addition, a combination of fast Fourier transform (FFT) and MUltiple SIgnal Classification (MUSIC) techniques is applied for a range/direction-of-arrival estimation with low computational effort. High angular resolution is achieved in the MUSIC spectrum by implementing a difference co-array concept together with spatial smoothing. A thinning rate in excess of 95% is demonstrated. Lastly, the performance of the proposed system is validated by measurements of point scatterers and extended objects.
Maternal hypomagnesemia alters renal function but does not program changes in the cardiovascular physiology of adult offspring
Authors: Schlegel R. N. , Moritz K. M. , Paravicini T. M.
Published: March 2016

Maternal undernutrition is known to adversely impact fetal health and development. Insults experienced in utero alter development of the fetus as it adapts to microenvironment stressors, leading to growth restriction and subsequent low birth weight. Infants born small for gestational age have significantly increased risk of developing cardiovascular and renal disease in later life, an effect that is often characterized by hypertension and reduced glomerular number. Maternal magnesium (Mg2+) deficiency during pregnancy impairs fetal growth, however, the long-term health consequences for the offspring remain unknown. Here, we used a mouse model of dietary Mg2+ deficiency before and during pregnancy to investigate cardiovascular and renal outcomes in male and female adult offspring at 6 months of age. There were no differences between groups in 24-h mean arterial pressure or heart rate as measured by radiotelemetry. Cardiovascular responses to aversive (restraint, dirty cage switch) and non-aversive (feeding response) stressors were also similar in all groups. There were no differences in nephron number, however, Mg2+-deficient offspring had increased urine flow (in both males and females) and reduced Mg2+ excretion (in males only). Despite evidence suggesting that maternal nutrient restriction programs for hypertension in adult offspring, we found that a moderate level of maternal dietary Mg2+ deficiency did not program for a nephron deficit, or alter cardiovascular function at 6 months of age. These data suggest there are no long-term adverse outcomes for the cardiovascular health of offspring of Mg2+ deficient mothers.
Quality of care indicators for schizophrenia: determinants of observed variations among Italian Departments of Mental Health. Results from the ETAS DSM study
Authors: Fantini G. , Tibaldi G. , Rucci P. , Gibertoni D. , Vezzoli M. , Cifarelli L. , Tiraferri R. , Munizza C.
Published: March 2016

Aims.

The primary aim of this study is to analyse the conformance of usual care patterns for persons with schizophrenia to treatment guidelines in three Italian Departments of Mental Health (DMHs). The secondary aim is to examine possible organisational and structural reasons accounting for variations among DMHs.

Methods.

Within the framework of the Evaluation of Treatment Appropriateness in Schizophrenia (ETAS) project, 20 consensus quality of care indicators were developed. Ten concerned pharmacological treatment and ten encompassed general care and psychosocial rehabilitation interventions. Indicators were calculated using data from a stratified random sample of 458 patients treated at three DMHs located in North-Eastern, North-Western and Southern Italy. Patients’ data were collected by combining information from medical charts and from a survey carried out by the health care professionals in charge of the patients. Data on the structural and organisational characteristics of the DMHs were retrieved from administrative databases. For each indicator, the number and percentage of appropriate interventions with and without moderators were calculated. Appropriateness was defined as the percentage of eligible patients receiving an intervention conformant with guidelines. Moderators, i.e., reasons justifying a discrepancy between the interventions actually provided and that recommended by guidelines were recorded. Indicators based on a sufficient number of eligible patients were further explored in a statistical analysis to compare the performance of the DMHs.

Results.

In the overall sample, the percentage of inappropriate interventions ranged from 11.1 to 59.3% for non-pharmacological interventions and from 5.9 to 66.8% for pharmacological interventions. Comparisons among DMHs revealed significant variability in appropriateness for the indicators ‘prevention and monitoring of metabolic effects’, ‘psychiatric visits’, ‘psychosocial rehabilitation’, ‘family involvement’ and ‘work’. After adjusting the patient's gender, age and functioning, only the indicators ‘Prevention and monitoring of metabolic effects’, ‘psychiatric visits’ and ‘work’ continued to differ significantly among DMHs. The percentage of patients receiving appropriate integrated care (at least one appropriate non-pharmacological intervention and one pharmacological intervention) was significantly different among the three DMHs and lower than expected.

Conclusions.

Our results underscore discrepancies among Italian DMHs in indicators that explore key aspects of care of patients with schizophrenia. The use of quality indicators and improved guideline adherence can address suboptimal clinical outcomes, and has the potential to reduce practice variations and narrow the gap between optimal and routine care.
A comparison of the cumulative incidence and early risk factors for psychotic disorder in young adults in the Northern Finland Birth Cohorts 1966 and 1986
Authors: Filatova S. , Marttila R. , Koivumaa-Honkanen H. , Nordström T. , Veijola J. , Mäki P. , Khandaker G. M. , Isohanni M. , Jääskeläinen E. , Moilanen K. , Miettunen J.
Published: March 2016

Aims.

Few studies have compared time trends for the incidence of psychosis. To date, the results have been inconsistent, showing a decline, an increase or no significant change. As far as we know, no studies explored changes in prevalence of early risk factors. The aim of this study was to investigate differences in early risk factors and cumulative incidences of psychosis by type of psychosis in two comparable birth cohorts.

Methods.

The Northern Finland Birth cohorts (NFBCs) 1966 (N = 12 058) and 1986 (N = 9432) are prospective general population-based cohorts with the children followed since mother's mid-pregnancy. The data for psychoses, i.e. schizophrenia (narrow, spectrum), bipolar disorder with psychotic features, major depressive episode with psychotic features, brief psychosis and other psychoses (ICD 8–10) were collected from nationwide registers including both inpatients and outpatients. The data on early risk factors including sex and place of birth of the offspring, parental age and psychosis, maternal education at birth were prospectively collected from the population registers. The follow-up reached until the age of 27 years.

Results.

An increase in the cumulative incidence of all psychoses was seen (1.01% in NFBC 1966 v. 1.90% in NFBC 1986; p < 0.001), which was due to an increase in diagnosed affective and other psychoses. Earlier onset of cases and relatively more psychoses in women were observed in the NFBC 1986. Changes in prevalence of potential early risk factors were identified, but only parental psychosis was a significant predictor in both cohorts (hazard ratios ≥3.0; 95% CI 1.86–4.88). The difference in psychosis incidence was not dependent on changes in prevalence of studied early risk factors.

Conclusions.

Surprisingly, increase in the cumulative incidence of psychosis and also changes in the types of psychoses were found between two birth cohorts 20 years apart. The observed differences could be due to real changes in incidence or they can be attributable to changes in diagnostic practices, or to early psychosis detection and treatment.
Modulating in vivo degradation rate of injectable extracellular matrix hydrogels
Authors: Wassenaar Jean W. , Braden Rebecca L. , Osborn Kent G. , Christman Karen L.
Published: March 2016

MMP inhibition through doxycycline reduces extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogel degradation in vivo.
A label-free fluorescence assay for thrombin activity analysis based on fluorescent protein and gold nanoparticles
Authors: Jin Xin , Liu Xin , Zhu Xiaohua , Li Hao , Li Wang , Huang Yan , Yao Shouzhuo
Published: March 2016

A label-free and sensitive fluorescence assay has been developed for probing thrombin activity based on an engineered enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) probe and unmodified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs).
SLC transporters: structure, function, and drug discovery
Authors: Colas Claire , Ung Peter Man-Un , Schlessinger Avner
Published: March 2016

The human solute carrier (SLC) transporters are important targets for drug development.
Synthesis of sequence-determined bottlebrush polymers based on sequence determination in living anionic copolymerization of styrene and dimethyl(4-(1-phenylvinyl)phenyl)silane
Authors: Wang Qiuyun , Ma Hongwei , Sang Wei , Han Li , Liu Pibo , Shen Heyu , Huang Wei , Gong Xichen , Yang Lincan , Wang Yurong , Li Yang
Published: March 2016

Sequence-determined bottlebrush polymers are precisely, efficiently and conveniently synthesized.
Versatile procedure for site-specific grafting of polymer brushes on patchy particles via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP)
Authors: van Ravensteijn Bas G. P. , Kegel Willem K.
Published: March 2016

Combining chemically anisotropic colloids with Surface-Initiated ATRP enables for site-specific grafting of p(NIPAM) brushes. The resulting, partially grafted particles are employed as colloidal building blocks for finite-sized clusters.
Heterogeneous O-arylation of nitroarenes with substituted phenols over a copper immobilized mesoporous silica catalyst
Authors: Maity Tanmoy , Bhunia Susmita , Das Soma , Koner Subratanath
Published: March 2016

Highly efficient heterogeneous mesoporous silica based Cu-catalyst has been designed forO-arylation of phenol using nitroarene to afford unsymmetrical diarylethers. It can be recycled up to 5 times without any significant loss of catalytic activity.
Manipulating the multifunctionalities of polydopamine to prepare high-flux anti-biofouling composite nanofiltration membranes
Authors: Zhang Runnan , Su Yanlei , Zhou Linjie , Zhou Tiantian , Zhao Xueting , Li Yafei , Liu Yanan , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: March 2016

An anti-biofouling composite NF membrane was prepared through the rational manipulation of the adhesion, reaction and separation functionalities of PDA.
In situ real-time and quantitative investigation on the stability of non-aqueous lithium oxygen battery electrolytes
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Ahn Su Mi , Kang Jungwon , Suk Jungdon , Kim Hwan Kyu , Kang Yongku
Published: March 2016

Differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) results clearly show that dimethylacetamide (DMA) is more stable and exhibits better performance than tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether (TEGDME), suggesting that DMA is a more favorable electrolyte for Li–O2 battery applications.
Effect of surface configurations on the room-temperature magnetism of pure ZnO
Authors: Chen Yu-Chun , Wang Zumin , Leineweber Andreas , Baier Johannes , Tietze Thomas , Phillipp Fritz , Schütz Gisela , Goering Eberhard
Published: March 2016

Room-temperature ferromagnetic-like behavior of ZnO pellets is strongly associated with the corresponding surface electronic structure.
Anesthetic Complication during Maxillofacial Trauma Surgery: A Case Report of Intraoperative Tension Pneumothorax
Authors: Al Shetawi AlHaitham , Golden Leonard , Turner Michael
Published: March 2016

Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening emergency that requires a high index of suspension and immediate intervention to prevent circulatory collapse and death. Only five cases of pneumothorax were described in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery literature. All cases were postoperative complications associated with orthognathic surgery. We report a case of intraoperative tension pneumothorax during a routine facial trauma surgery requiring emergency chest decompression. The possible causes, classification, and reported cases will be presented.
Patient-Specific Implant for Residual Facial Asymmetry following Orthognathic Surgery in Unilateral Craniofacial Microsomia
Authors: Staal Femke , Pluijmers Britt , Wolvius Eppo , Koudstaal Maarten
Published: March 2016

Craniofacial microsomia (CFM) is a congenital anomaly with a variable phenotype. The most prominent feature of CFM is a predominantly unilateral hypoplasia of the mandible, leading to facial asymmetry. Even after correction of the midline, there is often a remaining hard- and soft-tissue deficiency over the body of the mandible and cheek on the affected side. This clinical report describes the skeletal augmentation of the mandible with a patient-specific implant to treat residual facial asymmetry in two female patients with unilateral CFM. Good aesthetic results were achieved in both patients treated with either a Medpor or polyetheretherketone implant without complications after a follow-up time of 55 and 30 months, respectively.
Origin of thickness dependence of structural phase transition temperatures in highly strained BiFeO3 thin films
Authors: Yang Yongsoo , Beekman Christianne , Siemons Wolter , Schlepütz Christian M. , Senabulya Nancy , Clarke Roy , Christen Hans M.
Published: March 2016

Two structural phase transitions are investigated in highly strained BiFeO3 thin films as a function of film thickness and temperature via synchrotron x-ray diffraction. Both transition temperatures (upon heating: monoclinic MC to monoclinic MA to tetragonal) decrease as the film becomes thinner. A film-substrate interface layer, evidenced by half-order peaks, contributes to this behavior, but at larger thicknesses (above a few nanometers), the temperature dependence results from electrostatic considerations akin to size effects in ferroelectric phase transitions, but observed here for structural phase transitions within the ferroelectric phase. For ultra-thin films, the tetragonal structure is stable to low temperatures.
Voltage imbalance compensation by injecting active and reactive power using demand side inverter
Authors: Uehara Takahiro , Matayoshi Hidehito , Oki Takashi , Sharma Aditya , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: March 2016

In recent years, the increased use of renewable energy sources (especially photovoltaic (PV) systems) has been remarkable, and use is growing because of considerations for environmental problems. However, renewable energy sources dependent on weather conditions, such as PV systems, cause output power fluctuations. In an electric distribution system, many PV systems are connected with distribution lines, and PV systems generate unstable power and inject unbalanced power to each line. Therefore, it is possible for voltage imbalance to occur in three-phase distribution systems. In this paper, we propose a method of voltage imbalance compensation by injecting active and reactive power using inverters in Power Conditioning Systems connected to smart houses. If voltage imbalance compensation is executed considering only the distribution voltage, there is a concern that the voltage at the power receiving end will deviate. Therefore, the optimum quantity of power injection is decided depending on the proper rate of both the distribution voltage and the receiving voltage. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by simulation results in the MATLAB /SimPowerSystems environment.
Simulation of growth, development and yield of canola (Brassica napus) in APSIM
Authors: Robertson M. J. , Lilley J. M.
Published: March 2016

The canola (Brassica napus L.) module in the Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) was developed in the late 1990s. There has been no peer-reviewed account of the scientific underpinnings of the module, despite considerable testing across a wide range of environments in the Australian grains industry and numerous applications of the model to address agronomic and crop adaptation issues. This paper presents a summary of the parameters in the module and reviews the physiological evidence justifying their values and module performance, and reflects on areas of module improvement and application. APSIM-Canola simulates crop development, growth, yield and nitrogen (N) accumulation in response to temperature, photoperiod, radiation, soil water and N supply, with a daily time-step, using well-accepted approaches. The module has been validated on more than 250 data points across Australia, China, and Germany and typical root mean squared deviations for days to flowering are ~5 days and for grain yield are ~0.4 t ha–1. Testing on vernalisation-responsive winter types and in high yielding situations has indicated that more research is required to define phenology parameters and yield forming processes in high yielding environments. There is a need to develop better predictive routines for grain oil content that take account of the dynamics of grain filling and interactions with environmental conditions, and improve upon current regression-type approaches. Further testing of N responses is required. Physiological characterisation of new cultivar types, such as hybrids, Indian mustard (Brassica juncea), and new herbicide tolerance types is required to make the module more applicable to contemporary canola production systems. A lack of understanding of the effects of high and low temperature extremes on reproductive processes is currently limiting the use of the module outside conventional sowing dates and agro-climatic zones.
The net benefits of human-ignited wildfire forecasting: the case of tribal land units in the United States
Authors: Prestemon Jeffrey P. , Butry David T. , Thomas Douglas S.
Published: March 2016

Research shows that some categories of human-ignited wildfires may be forecastable, owing to their temporal clustering, with the possibility that resources could be predeployed to help reduce the incidence of such wildfires. We estimated several kinds of incendiary and other human-ignited wildfire forecast models at the weekly time step for tribal land units in the United States, evaluating their forecast skill out of sample. Analyses show that an autoregressive conditional Poisson model of both incendiary and non-incendiary human-ignited wildfires is more accurate out of sample compared with alternatives, and the simplest of the autoregressive conditional Poisson models performed the best. Additionally, an ensemble of these and simpler, less analytically intensive approaches performed even better. Wildfire hotspot forecast models using all model types were evaluated in a simulation mode to assess the net benefits of forecasts in the context of law-enforcement resource reallocations. Our analyses show that such hotspot tools could yield large positive net benefits for the tribes in terms of suppression expenditures averted for incendiary wildfires but that the hotspot tools were less likely to be beneficial for addressing outbreaks of non-incendiary human-ignited wildfires.
Wildfires in the eastern Mediterranean as a result of lightning activity – a change in the conventional knowledge
Authors: Paz Shlomit , Inbar Moshe , Kutiel Haim , Malkinson Dan , Tessler Naama , Wittenberg Lea
Published: March 2016

No records exist in the scientific literature about lightning fires in the eastern Mediterranean (EM). Although thunderstorms are frequent in winter, if spontaneous fire is ignited, it will immediately be extinguished by rain. No thunderstorms occur in summer, and therefore no favourable weather conditions for natural ignitions exist. In October 2014, the synoptic conditions over the EM comprised a Red Sea Trough (RST) with an easterly axis (a less frequent version of this system). A convective storm, accompanied by thunderstorms with intense local rains developed rapidly. Simultaneously, six wildfires were reported from different locations in northern Israel (in the EM). Lightning activity documented by the Israel Electric Co. was at the same time and locations as the reported wildfires. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case recorded in recent history of wildfires in the EM as a result of lightning. Moreover, in the literature, the RST is associated with fires only when its axis is in a western position, thus driving very hot and dry air masses. A different way of thinking is needed on the potential of lightning in autumn as a possible cause of fires under different situations of the RST.
How asters find their center
Authors: Short Ben
Published: March 2016

Researchers describe how microtubule asters move to the center of eggs after fertilization.
Approximating curves on real rational surfaces
Authors: Kollár János , Mangolte Frédéric
Published: March 2016

We give necessary and sufficient topological conditions for a simple closed curve on a real rational surface to be approximable by smooth rational curves. We also study approximation by smooth rational curves with given complex self-intersection number.
On the spectral equivalence of hierarchical matrix preconditioners for elliptic problems
Authors: Bebendorf M. , Bollhöfer M. , Bratsch M.
Published: March 2016

We will discuss the spectral equivalence of hierarchical matrix approximations for second order elliptic problems. Our theory will show that a modified variant of the hierarchical matrix Cholesky decomposition which preserves test vectors while truncating blocks to lower rank will lead to a spectrally equivalent approximation when using an adapted truncation threshold. Our theory also covers the usual hierarchical Cholesky decomposition which does not preserve test vectors but expects a significantly more restrictive threshold adaption to obtain a spectrally equivalent approximation. Numerical experiments indicate that the adaption of the truncation parameter seems to be necessary for the traditional hierarchical Cholesky preconditioner to obtain mesh-independent convergence while the variant which preserves test vectors works in practice quite well even with a fixed parameter.
Automated integration of continuous glucose monitor data in the electronic health record using consumer technology
Authors: Kumar Rajiv B , Goren Nira D , Stark David E , Wall Dennis P , Longhurst Christopher A
Published: March 2016

The diabetes healthcare provider plays a key role in interpreting blood glucose trends, but few institutions have successfully integrated patient home glucose data in the electronic health record (EHR). Published implementations to date have required custom interfaces, which limit wide-scale replication. We piloted automated integration of continuous glucose monitor data in the EHR using widely available consumer technology for 10 pediatric patients with insulin-dependent diabetes. Establishment of a passive data communication bridge via a patient’s/parent’s smartphone enabled automated integration and analytics of patient device data within the EHR between scheduled clinic visits. It is feasible to utilize available consumer technology to assess and triage home diabetes device data within the EHR, and to engage patients/parents and improve healthcare provider workflow.
Growth Retardation (Hemiepiphyseal Stapling) and Growth Acceleration (Periosteal Resection) as a Method to Improve Guided Growth in a Lamb Model
Authors: Noonan Kennett J. , Halanski Matthew A. , Leiferman Ellen , Wilsman Norman
Published: March 2016

Background:

Guided growth corrects pediatric limb deformity by inhibiting growth on the convexity of the bone. Both modular and rigid implants have been used; we endeavor to determine whether a clear advantage of one implant exists. We further hypothesize that improved correction could be realized by accelerating growth with resection of the periosteum.

Methods:

Sixteen lambs underwent guided growth of the medial proximal tibia (the opposite limb served as a control). Group 1 used a rigid staple (n=5); group 2 a modular plate and screw construct (n=5), and group 3 had a similar device plus periosteal resection (n=6). Radiographs tracked the progression of deformity in the coronal plane. Before sacrifice, pulsed fluorochrome labels allowed for temporal and spatial growth rate analysis. At sacrifice, True Deformity was calculated (and compared with control tibia) from standardized radiographs in the coronal and sagittal planes. Device Efficiencies were normalized by dividing True Deformity produced (degrees) by the Expected Growth gain (mm) from the control limb.

Results:

Group 3 produced greater coronal plane deformity than group 1 by an average of 2.2 degrees per month (P=0.001) and group 2 by an average of 2.4 degrees per month (P=0.0007). At sacrifice, groups 1 and 2 were equally effective at limiting growth to 75% of control; no differences in growth retardation were noted. No differences in Device Efficiency were noted between groups 1 and 2. The Device Efficiency was significantly different between groups 1 and 2 with comparison with group 3 (P=0.05 and P=0.022); with a 2.5 degree/mm faster deformation in the stripped cohort.

Conclusions:

Rigid implants initially produced deformity quicker than modular constructs; yet ultimately, both implants were equally effective at guiding growth. Device Efficiency for the modular group improved significantly with the addition of periosteal stripping as method to accelerate growth.
Div-Seq: A single nucleus RNA-Seq method reveals dynamics of rare adult newborn neurons in the CNS
Authors: Habib Naomi , Li Yinqing , Heidenreich Matthias , Swiech Lukasz , Trombetta John J. , Zhang Feng , Regev Aviv
Published: March 2016

Transcriptomes of individual neurons provide rich information about cell types and dynamic states. However, it is difficult to capture rare dynamic processes, such as adult neurogenesis, because isolation from dense adult tissue is challenging, and markers for each phase are limited. Here, we developed Div-Seq, which combines Nuc-Seq, a scalable single nucleus RNA-Seq method, with EdU-mediated labeling of proliferating cells. We first show that Nuc-Seq can sensitively identify closely related cell types within the adult hippocampus. We apply Div-Seq to track transcriptional dynamics of newborn neurons in an adult neurogenic region in the hippocampus. Finally, we find rare adult newborn GABAergic neurons in the spinal cord, a non-canonical neurogenic region. Taken together, Nuc-Seq and Div-Seq open the way for unbiased analysis of any complex tissue.
The social meaning of disability: a reflection on categorisation, stigma and identity
Authors: Grue Jan
Published: March 2016

As disability becomes an ever more salient concept in international political and legal discourse, its social meaning must be better understood. Traditionally defined in medical terms and as an individual problem, it has for the last several decades increasingly become a socio‐politically defined phenomenon. Disability pride has emerged as a social movement patterned after ethnic minority and sexual orientation movements. The one billion people who count as disabled nevertheless have illnesses and impairments that are largely understood as medical problems. Medicine continues to exert great influence on the social meaning of disability in general and the social valuation of various illnesses and impairments in particular. Whereas specific conditions may be socially valued, the overall category and label of disability connotes marginality and stigma. Under these conditions, disability policy, which ought to be a universal concern, risks being construed as a marginal and special‐interest issue rather than a broadly relevant topic; this has potentially negative consequences for the majority of disabled people.
The minor house dust mite allergen Der p 13 is a fatty acid‐binding protein and an activator of a TLR2‐mediated innate immune response
Authors: Satitsuksanoa P. , Kennedy M. , Gilis D. , Le Mignon M. , Suratannon N. , Soh W. T. , Wongpiyabovorn J. , Chatchatee P. , Vangveravong M. , Rerkpattanapipat T. , Sangasapaviliya A. , Piboonpocanun S. , Nony E. , Ruxrungtham K. , Jacquet A. ,   the Mite Allergy Research Cohort (MARC) study team
Published: March 2016

Background

The house dust mite (HDM) allergen Der p 13 could be a lipid‐binding protein able to activate key innate signaling pathways in the initiation of the allergic response. We investigated the IgE reactivity of recombinant Der p 13 (rDer p 13), its lipid‐binding activities, and its capacity to stimulate airway epithelium cells.

Methods

Purified rDer p 13 was characterized by mass spectrometry, circular dichroism, fluorescence‐based lipid‐binding assays, and in silico structural prediction. IgE‐binding activity and allergenic potential of Der p 13 were examined by ELISA, basophil degranulation assays, and in vitro airway epithelial cell activation assays.

Results

Protein modeling and biophysical analysis indicated that Der p 13 adopts a β‐barrel structure with a predominately apolar pocket representing a potential binding site for hydrophobic ligands. Fluorescent lipid‐binding assays confirmed that the protein is highly selective for ligands and that it binds a fatty acid with a dissociation constant typical of lipid transporter proteins. The low IgE‐binding frequency (7%, n = 224) in Thai HDM‐allergic patients as well as the limited propensity to activate basophil degranulation classifies Der p 13 as a minor HDM allergen. Nevertheless, the protein with its presumptively associated lipid(s) triggered the production of IL‐8 and GM‐CSF in respiratory epithelial cells through a TLR2‐, MyD88‐, NF‐kB‐, and MAPK‐dependent signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Although a minor allergen, Der p 13 may, through its lipid‐binding capacity, play a role in the initiation of the HDM‐allergic response through TLR2 activation.
Prognostic Value of QRS Fragmentation in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Güngör Barış , Özcan Kazım Serhan , Karataş Mehmet Baran , Şahin İrfan , Öztürk Recep , Bolca Osman
Published: March 2016

Aims

Fragmented QRS has emerged as a novel electrocardiographic parameter associated with adverse clinical events in various diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of fQRS with in‐hospital and long‐term cardiovascular events in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non‐ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods and Results

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library up to October 2015 for eligible studies. We selected studies with fQRS defined with 12‐lead ECG during the index hospitalization of STEMI/NSTEMI. Primary outcomes were in‐hospital and long‐term cardiovascular events. In‐hospital mortality was significantly higher in fQRS (+) group (99/733; 13.5%) compared to fQRS (–) group (47/1293; 3.6%) (OR 4.03 95% CI 1.81–8.94; P = 0.0006). Long‐term mortality rate was higher in fQRS (+) group (89/473; 18.8%) compared to fQRS (–) group (54/1009; 5.3%) (OR 3.93 95% CI 1.92–8.05; P = 0.0002). In addition the frequency of long‐term MACE was higher in fQRS (+) group (46.9%) compared to fQRS (–) group (14.6%) (OR 5.13 95% CI 2.77–9.51; P < 0.00001)

Conclusion

Presence of fQRS on admission ECG was found to be predictor of mortality, MACE, deterioration of LV function, and presence of multivessel disease in patients with STEMI and NSTEMI.
Episodic Left Bundle Branch Block—A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Bazoukis George , Tsimos Konstantinos , Korantzopoulos Panagiotis
Published: March 2016

Episodic (transient/ intermittent) left bundle branch block (LBBB) has been associated with different conditions such as bradycardia, tachycardia, anesthesia, acute pulmonary embolism, changes in intrathoracic pressure, chest trauma, cardiac interventional procedures, mad honey poisoning, and in other clinical settings. Of note, exclusion of an acute coronary syndrome in the setting of episodic LBBB is of great importance. Moreover, episodic LBBB is sometimes symptomatic and may be associated with left ventricular systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction or conduction disturbances leading to syncope. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the conditions associated with episodic LBBB and discusses the clinical impact of this phenomenon.
Evaluation of Tp‐e Interval, Tp‐e/QT Ratio, and Tp‐e/QTc Ratio in Patients with Asymptomatic Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Alizade Elnur , Yesin Mahmut , Yazicioğlu Mehmet Vefik , Karaayvaz Ekrem Bilal , Atici Adem , Arslan Şükrü , Avci Anıl , Acar Göksel , Tabakci Mustafa , Izci Servet , Pala Selçuk
Published: March 2016

Background

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD) is characterized by progressive replacement of ventricular myocytes with variable amounts of fibrous and adipose tissue. Several studies have suggested that the interval from the peak to the end of the electrocardiographic T wave (Tp‐e) may correspond to the transmural dispersion of repolarization and that increased Tp‐e interval and Tp‐e/QT ratio are associated with malignant ventricular arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate repolarization dispersion measured from the 12‐lead surface electrocardiogram (including Tp‐e interval, Tp‐e/QT, and Tp‐e/QTc ratio) in asymptomatic ARVD patients

Methods

We selected 27 patients with asymptomatic ARVD and 27 age‐ and gender‐match young, healthy volunteers.

Results

Tp‐e interval, Tp‐e/QT and Tp‐e/QTc ratio were also significantly higher in ARVD group compared to the control group (all P < 0.001). There were negative correlation between S global and Tp‐e, Tp‐e/QT, Tp‐e/QTc ration (r = −0.57, P = 0.02; r = −0.85, P = 0.02; r = −0.63, P < 0.01; respectively). There were also negative correlation between Sm global and Tp‐e, Tp‐e/QT, Tp‐e/QTc ration (r = −0.61, P < 0.01; r = −0.67, P < 0.01; r = −0.68, P < 0.01; respectively). Moreover, Em global were negative correlation between Tp‐e, Tp‐e/QT, and Tp‐e/QTc (r = − 0.64, P < 0.001, r = − 0.75, P < 0.01; r = −0,69, P < 0.01; respectively)

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have presented strong evidence suggesting that Tp‐e interval, Tp‐e/QT ratio, and Tp‐e/QTc ratio were increased in asymptomatic ARVD patients.