bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A learning approach for email conversation thread reconstruction
Authors: Dehghani Mostafa , Shakery Azadeh , Asadpour Masoud , Koushkestani Arash
Published: July 2013

An email conversation thread is defined as a topic-centric discussion unit that is composed of exchanged emails among the same group of people by reply or forwarding. Detecting conversation threads contained in email corpora can be beneficial for both humans to digest the content of discussions and automatic methods to extract useful information from the conversations. This research explores two new feature-enriched learning approaches, LExLinC and LExTreC, to reconstruct linear structure and tree structure of conversation threads in email data. In this work, some simplifying assumptions considered in previous methods for extracting conversation threads are relaxed, which makes the proposed methods more powerful in detecting real conversations. Additionally, the supervised nature of the proposed methods makes them adaptable to new environments by automatically adjusting the features and their weights. Experimental results show that the proposed methods are highly effective in detecting conversation threads and outperform the existing methods.
Evaluation of effects of bronchiectasis on bronchial artery diameter with multidetector computed tomography
Authors: Kosar Mehmet , Kurt Aydin , Keskin Suat , Keskin Zeynep , Arslan Halil
Published: July 2013

Background:

Among patients with increased bronchial artery diameter there is a significant association between hemoptysis and bronchiectasis score. The higher score of bronchiectasis, the higher risk of hemoptysis development.

Purpose:

To investigate the association of stages of bronchiectasis based on a computed tomography (CT) grading system, with bronchial artery diameter and hemoptysis in patients with bronchiectasis.

Material and Methods:

Patients with lung pathologies other than bronchiectasis, which may cause hemoptysis, were excluded from the study. One hundred and forty-five patients who underwent contrast-enhanced thorax CT by a 64-detector CT for various indications, and who were diagnosed with bronchiectasis, were evaluated retrospectively. CT examinations were carried out by two radiologists with 9 and 4 years of experience with chest radiology, respectively. The diameters of the right and left bronchial arteries were measured 1 cm from the aortic origin and perpendicular to the vessel axis. Cases were assessed based on the Bhalla CT scoring system. The hemoptysis history of every patient was taken.

Results:

The diameters of the right and left bronchial arteries were significantly greater in patients with scores of 2 and 3 bronchiectasis than in patients with a score of 1. This was significantly greater in patients with a score of 3 than in patients with a score of 2 ( P < 0.05). In patients with a score of 1, the right bronchial artery diameter was significantly greater than that of the left bronchial artery ( P < 0.05). Right bronchial artery diameters were significantly greater than left bronchial artery diameters in score 3 patients ( P < 0.05). A significant association was observed between hemoptysis and bronchiectasis in patients with increased bronchial artery diameter ( P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

In patients with bronchiectasis, as the stage of bronchiectasis increases, the bronchial artery diameters and the risk of hemoptysis increase. We think that in patients who are diagnosed with bronchiectasis via multidetector CT (MDCT), based on scoring with bronchial artery diameters, the risk of hemoptysis can be estimated, and early management plans can be implemented.
Teacher Implementation of Evidence-Based Practices in Tier 1
Authors: Kretlow Allison G. , Helf Shawnna S.
Published: July 2013

Federal mandates more than a decade old require the use of evidence-based practices in schools, and an abundance of meta-analytic evidence for reading instruction exists; however, the long lamented research to practice gap in education gives reason to explore whether this evidence has translated to classrooms. This study examined the extent to which a national sample of kindergarten, first- and second-grade teachers ( n = 534) reported using evidence-based reading curricula. Results indicated that very few curricula teachers used have been evaluated using research designs that meet federal guidelines. In addition, teachers reported supplanting their core reading curricula with other materials. Results of the survey indicate the need, despite a federal push for evidence-based practices, for new models of developing, testing, and disseminating evidence-based curricula.
Etest Versus Vitek 2 Vancomycin Minimum Inhibitory Concentration Testing Methods for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bloomgren Brandon J. , Laible Brad R.
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

To evaluate the discordance between Vitek 2 and Etest vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing methods in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) isolates.

Methods:

Inclusion criteria consisted of MRSA isolates with blood, respiratory, or wound origin of culture, inpatient or emergency department location at time of culture and isolates with a Vitek 2 MIC reported. Isolates were subjected to Etest and the resulting MICs were compared to the corresponding Vitek 2 MICs, and both the rate and degree of discordance were evaluated.

Results:

Seventy-five MRSA isolates met the inclusion criteria. Etest resulted in an MIC value greater than that of Vitek 2 in 64 isolates (85.3%). Furthermore, of the 35 isolates with an MIC of ≤0.5 mcg/mL via Vitek 2, Etest reported 27 isolates with an MIC >1 mcg/mL. Of the 39 isolates with a Vitek 2 MIC of 1 mcg/mL, Etest reported 30 isolates with an MIC >1 mcg/mL.

Conclusion:

We have demonstrated that Etest commonly reports MICs greater than 1 mcg/mL, even among isolates with MICs as low as ≤0.5 mcg/mL, according to Vitek 2. The clinical significance of these findings is unknown and would be an area of further study.
The customer in the sociology of work: different ways of going beyond the management–worker dyad
Authors: Korczynski Marek
Published: July 2013

Customers play a key part in the working experience of a significant proportion of the working class in contemporary service work. This e-special issue features articles selected from previous issues of Work, Employment and Society which have made significant contributions to our understanding of the role of the customer within the social relations of interactive service work. This introduction argues that the literature in this area is implicitly comprised of three approaches: an approach which sees worker–customer relations merely as an additional dimension; an approach which sees the customer’s role as having knock-on implications for a limited number of dimensions of work organization; and an approach which sees implications of the customer across the whole of work organization. The contributions of the e-special articles are brought out by positioning them within these approaches. This introduction ends with a consideration of strengths and weaknesses in the three approaches.
The effects of cracks on the thermal stress induced by soldering in monocrystalline silicon cells
Authors: Lai Chi-Ming , Lin Keh-Moh , Su Chi-Hung
Published: July 2013

Silicon-based solar applications have tended towards the use of large, thin cells. However, an increased loss of materials occurs due to a high rate of destruction during the soldering and packaging processes. In this study, the effects of the presence of cracks on the thermal stress and stress intensity factor of the cells were explored for different aspect ratios of the soldering rods using an established finite element method. It was found that the residual stress in the cell was concentrated near the ends of the soldering rods, which coincided with the typical positions where breakage tended to occur on the cell. The residual stress on the cell increased with an increasing aspect ratio of the soldering rod. Cell damage due to cracking can be avoided by controlling the magnitude of the soldering rod’s aspect ratio.
Opt-out testing for HIV: perspectives from a high prevalence community in south-east England, UK
Authors: Pollard A , Llewellyn C , Smith H , Richardson D , Fisher M
Published: August 2013

Summary

Peoples’ perspectives and attitudes towards being offered opt-out HIV testing were explored in a geographical area of high HIV prevalence. Users ( n = 31) of sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing services took part in community focus groups in the south-east of England, UK. There was broad support for opt-out HIV testing based on public health and individual health benefits. For this sample, opt-out HIV testing when registering with a general practice surgery and on elective or emergency admission to a general hospital was acceptable, although there were concerns about the rigour of informed consent. Heterosexual participants’ criticism of people from higher prevalence groups for HIV declining tests, while maintaining their own right to opt-out, suggested that attitudes towards testing may be influenced by levels of perceived risk. Innovations in HIV testing policies to increase testing rates will benefit from an acknowledgement of the different meanings that testing has.
Individual pitch control of wind turbines: Model-based approach
Authors: Stotsky Alexander , Egardt Bo
Published: July 2013

Significant fore-and-aft tower vibrations of large wind turbines due to wind shear can be reduced using individual pitch control, in which the pitch angle of each blade is adjusted individually. A short survey of the existing individual pitch control strategies is presented, and a new architecture with preview measurements of the wind speeds at different heights is proposed in this article for the turbine tilt moment reduction. The approach includes look-ahead calculations of the desired blade loads and pitch angles as well as preprocessing algorithms for calculation of the derivative of the desired pitch angle. Wind speed measurement records, performed at two different heights with Risoe P2546 cup anemometer, are directly used in the turbine simulations. It is shown that the variations of tilt moment can be essentially reduced using the approach described in this article.
Active control of pressure pulsation in a switched inertance hydraulic system
Authors: Pan Min , Johnston Nigel , Hillis Andrew
Published: July 2013

The nature of digital hydraulic systems may cause severe pressure pulsation problems. For example, switched inertance hydraulic systems can be used to adjust or control flow and pressure by a means that does not rely on dissipation of power, but they have noise problems because of the pulsed nature of the flow. An effective method to reduce the noise is needed that does not impair the system performance and efficiency. This article reports on an initial investigation of an active attenuator for pressure pulsation cancellation in a switched inertance hydraulic system. Using the designed noise attenuator, the pressure pulsation can be decreased effectively by superimposing an anti-phase control signal. A high-performance piezoelectric valve was selected and used as the secondary path actuator in terms of its fast response and wide bandwidth. Adaptive notch filters with the filtered-X least mean square algorithm were applied for pressure pulsation attenuation, while a frequency-domain least mean square filter was used for secondary path identification. A ‘switched inertance hydraulic system’ in a flow booster configuration was used as the test rig. Experimental results show that excellent cancellation was achieved using the proposed method, which has several advantages over passive noise control systems, being effective for a wide range of frequencies without impairing the system’s dynamic response. The method is a very promising solution for pressure pulsation cancellation in hydraulic systems with severe noise or vibration problems.
Development of systemic lupus erythematosus in a male-to-female transsexual: the role of sex hormones revisited
Authors: Chan KL , Mok CC
Published: July 2013

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) predominantly affects women of childbearing age. The infrequency of SLE in men and disease onset in prepubertal or postmenopausal women suggests a role of estrogen in the predisposition to the disease. Patients with hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism are prone to the development of SLE, and the use of exogenous estrogens in women increases the relative risk of SLE onset and disease flares. These observations provide indirect evidence for an opposite role of estrogens and androgens in the pathogenesis of SLE. We report on a male-to-female transsexual who developed SLE 20 years after sex-reassignment surgery and prolonged estrogen therapy. The role of sex hormones in SLE is revisited.
Ruminations on Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179) and autism
Authors: Ranft Patricia
Published: July 2013

The article brings together contemporary research on autism spectrum disorder and historical sources concerning the medical condition of a 12th century nun, Hildegard of Bingen, to test two hypotheses: first, that Hildegard manifested disabilities that meet the criteria for autism spectrum disorder and, second, that medieval monasticism was unwittingly well-suited to treat Hildegard’s condition. Abundant Hildegardian sources document traces of autism spectrum disorder behaviour in Hildegard’s unusual childhood and the composite picture that emerges, when these individual traits are gathered together, is consistent with an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. The role monasticism played in helping Hildegard overcome these behaviours is documented and aspects that monasticism shares with modern autism spectrum disorder treatment programs are identified. By recognizing the presence of autism spectrum disorder traits in a major cultural leader of another era and by identifying the type of life she lived while those traits were minimized, we gain insight into the history of autism, medieval monastic life and effective elements of autism spectrum disorder treatment.
Attracting Indian Outbound Tourists to South Africa: A BRICS Perspective
Authors: Henama Unathi Sonwabile
Published: August 2013

South Africa in the post-1994 era has experienced phenomenal growth in foreign tourism. The Tourism White Paper (1996) had noted that South Africa missed its tourism opportunity because of the country’s troubled past. The rapid economic growth experienced by the BRICS countries has changed the face of international tourism. The tourism destinations have moved from developed to developing countries. In this context, the article highlights that South Africa enjoys 2.6 per cent of the lucrative Indian outbound tourism market. This market share has the potential to be increased. India has been added to South African Tourism’s (SAT’s) Core Markets List. A longitudinal analysis from foreign arrivals indicates two things, one, that India remains the top Asian foreign arrivals country, represented by 71,587 arrivals in 2010, and two, that India remains resilient to hold to its number one spot in Asian foreign arrivals to South Africa. South Africa must gear itself up to encourage the trend.
Book Review: The Future of Power
Authors: Joshi Yogesh
Published: August 2013

Nye, Joseph S., Jr, The Future of Power (New York: Public Affairs, 2011). Pp. xviii + 300.
Book Review: The Group of Twenty (G20)
Authors: Chaulia Sreeram
Published: August 2013

Cooper, Andrew F. and Thakur, Ramesh, The Group of Twenty (G20) (New York: Routledge, 2012). Pp. 200, Price US$28.
Implementing cognitive remediation therapy: lessons from two public mental health services
Authors: Cairns Alice , Dark Frances , Batts Megan
Published: July 2013

Objective:

Neurocognitive deficits are a core symptom domain of schizophrenia, occurring in 75–90% of people with this diagnosis and influencing long term functional outcomes. This article aims to describe the pilot implementation of cognitive remediation therapy in two large public mental health services and detail changes made to the delivery of this therapy after this trial.

Conclusions:

Cognitive remediation therapy provides an evidence-based approach to targeting cognitive deficits but the translation of this therapy from a research setting to clinical practice has not been well evaluated.
Prestige and bipolarity
Authors: Le Bas James , Castle David , Newton Richard , O’Loughlin Denis
Published: July 2013

Objective:

To explore aspects of prestige in the bipolar disorders.

Conclusions:

Conceptualisation around bipolar spectrum disorders is in its infancy, in particular with relation to their neurobiological and evolutionary underpinnings. While research has privileged proximate causation, a separate, nascent dialogue in relation to the ‘aboutness’ of affective syndromes exists. Arguably, affective disorders can be considered in relation to the social group phenomena of self-esteem and prestige. A conceptualisation of Panksepp’s PLAY and Thayer’s energetic arousal systems combined- Hedonic Energetic Social Engagement- can be invoked as a mechanism for bipolarity. This has been acted upon by prestige competition to create a selection pressure for prestige. In this model, bipolar spectrum conditions evolved as a by-product of this process.
Comparison of workload intensity in community and rehabilitation teams in a community mental health service
Authors: Bender Keith
Published: July 2013

Objective:

The purpose was to investigate a perception that clients of a rehabilitation team constitute an ‘easy’ group of patients, who should be managed outside public sector community psychiatric service settings.

Method:

A caseload equalisation tool was used to compare the case manager workload in the community team and the rehabilitation team of a community mental health service.

Results:

Caseload scores of clients of community and rehabilitation teams were not significantly different. Nor was there any significant difference in client complexity, time that case managers spent with clients or liaison activity.

Conclusion:

The primary sector, even with non-government organisation support, is unlikely to be able to meet the needs of the group of patients who were being managed by the rehabilitation team.
Applying Research in Reading Comprehension to Social Studies Instruction for Middle and High School Students
Authors: Swanson Elizabeth , Wanzek Jeanne
Published: July 2013

Secondary-level content area teachers face unique challenges in helping their students successfully read, understand, and learn content from complex texts in their discipline. In this article, a set of research-based practices designed to provide effective and feasible instruction to improve students’ reading and comprehension of text and content is provided. Specific examples of each practice within a social studies unit are used to illustrate how to promote text reading and understanding that is integrated with the content.
A model of exploration and goal-searching in the cockroach, Blaberus discoidalis
Authors: Daltorio Kathryn A , Tietz Brian R , Bender John A , Webster Victoria A , Szczecinski Nicholas S , Branicky Michael S , Ritzmann Roy E , Quinn Roger D
Published: July 2013

Cockroach shelter-seeking strategy may initially look like an undirected random search, but we show that they are attracted to darkened shelters. They arrive at a shelter in about half the time control cockroaches take to reach the same location with no shelter present. We were able to identify six statistically significant trends from the behavior of 134 cockroaches in 1-min naïve walking trials with four different shelter configurations. By combining these trends into a model, we built a stochastic algorithm that significantly biases a simulated agent toward a target location. We call this model RAMBLER (Randomized Algorithm Mimicking Biased Lone Exploration in Roaches). RAMBLER could be adapted for a mobile robot equipped with an onboard camera and antenna-like contact sensors.
A Tale of Two Maps
Authors: Degani Asaf
Published: August 2013

This article presents an analytical approach to the problem of information organization, with special emphasis on diagrammatic design. The approach involves three levels: (a) abstraction of data into representational elements, (b) integration of these elements to create coherent structures of information, and (c) configuration of such coherent structures, through underlying order, into a whole. To illustrate this approach, the abstract map (the “Diagram”) of the London underground is analyzed, and the design techniques observed are brought to the fore. The article concludes with several principles that can be encapsulated as constraints for an algorithmic approach to diagram generation.
Nonlinear dynamic analysis of imperfect functionally graded material double curved thin shallow shells with temperature-dependent properties on elastic foundation
Authors: Duc Nguyen Dinh , Quan Tran Quoc
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an analytical investigation on the nonlinear dynamic analysis of functionally graded double curved thin shallow shells using a simple power-law distribution (P-FGM) with temperature-dependent properties on an elastic foundation and subjected to mechanical load and temperature. The formulations are based on the classical shell theory, taking into account geometrical nonlinearity, initial geometrical imperfection, temperature-dependent properties and unlike other publications, Poisson ratio is assumed to be varied smoothly along the thickness [Formula: see text]. The nonlinear equations are solved by the Bubnov-Galerkin and Runge-Kutta methods. The obtained results show the effects of temperature, material and geometrical properties, imperfection and elastic foundation on the nonlinear vibration and nonlinear dynamical response of double curved FGM shallow shells. Some results were compared with those of other authors.
Effect of muscle type and frozen storage on the quality parameters of Iberian restructured meat preparations
Authors: Antequera Teresa , Pérez-Palacios Trinidad , Rodas Elena , Rodríguez Mar , Córdoba Juan J
Published: July 2013

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of muscle type and frozen storage on the quality of restructured meat preparations from undervalued Iberian muscle to make use of meat from a high-quality and natural pig production system. The effect of two muscle types (i.e. white-glycolytic (W) and red-oxidative (R)) and frozen storage (lasting 0, 30, 60 and 90 days) on quality characteristics were assessed. Significant differences were found between the W and R Iberian restructured preparations in most physicochemical and some colour, texture and sensory traits, and in the fatty acid profile and oxidative measurements, suggesting that the R muscles are more suitable; however, the microbial contamination should be reduced. Frozen storage reduced but did not eliminate the initial microbial contamination, and it enhanced some quality traits in the Iberian restructured preparations, i.e. increased a* values, cohesiveness and juiciness and decreased adhesiveness and pastiness, without negatively affecting any parameter. Thus, frozen Iberian restructured preparations are recommended to be commercialized. In addition, the implementation or revision of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point is recommended to reduce microbial contamination.
Resilience in Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals
Authors: Kwon Paul
Published: August 2013

To promote psychological health among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals, more comprehensive research on resilience factors in LGB individuals is needed. This article presents a theoretical framework based on the existing literature, with an eye toward guiding future research in this area. Social support clearly serves as a resilience factor for LGB individuals, in part through its ability to lower reactivity to prejudice. Social support is particularly effective when it specifically supports people’s sexual orientation and is congruent with individuals’ developmental needs. The ability to accept emotions and to process them in an insightful manner also buffers the negative impact of prejudice. In addition, hope and optimism allow LGB individuals to maintain psychological health when faced with prejudice.
An occult intracranial foreign body introduced via a conjunctival wound
Authors: Vaqas Babar , Kopniczky Zsolt , Haliasos Nik , Namnyak Simon , Pollock Jonathan
Published: July 2013

We present a case of a 23-year-old man who suffered a facial assault. An intracranial foreign body, a socket from a socket wrench, was introduced into the cranial cavity via a medial conjunctival entry wound which presented with minimal physical signs. The entry wound and the foreign body were missed during the patient’s first presentation to an emergency department leading to a delay in diagnosis. Subsequent periorbital swelling and visual blurring prompted delayed investigation leading to detection of the foreign body. This case report highlights the need for a high index of suspicion of intracranial complications when assessing ocular injuries. The mechanism of the penetrating injury, the ophthalmological findings and the surgical and antibiotic management are discussed.
The introduction of rib fracture fixation for traumatic flail chest injury: A single centre experience
Authors: Sellers Emma L , Fearon Paul V , Ripley Colin , Vincent Angus , Barnard Sion , Williams John R
Published: July 2013

Introduction

High energy chest trauma resulting in flail chest injury or multiple rib fractures is associated with increased rates of patient morbidity and mortality. Operative fixation of acute rib fractures causing flail chest is thought to reduce morbidity by reducing pain and improving chest mechanics enabling earlier ventilator weaning. A variety of operative techniques have been described historically and we report on our unit’s experience of the introduction of acute rib fracture fixation using contoured locking plates.

Methods

Between December 2010 and 2011, 10 patients underwent acute rib fracture fixation under the joint care of orthopaedic and thoracic surgeons. Outcome measures included patient demographics, time ventilated pre-operatively, time ventilated post-operatively and time spent on intensive treatment unit/high dependency unit (ITU/HDU) post operatively.

Results

The median time from presentation to surgery was 5 days (range 2–12 days), the median time ventilated post-operatively was 2 days (range 1–4 days) and the median number of days spent on ITU/HDU post-operatively was 6 days (range 2–11 days). All but two patients, who did not require post-operative ventilation, were weaned off the ventilator within 4 days of surgery.

Conclusions

Our results appear positive in terms of time spent ventilated post-operatively but no conclusion can be drawn as we have no comparable non-operative group. We have however shown that rib fracture fixation can be carried out successfully and safely in a trauma centre with few post-operative complications reported to date. Further evidence on rib fracture fixation is required from a large, multi-centre randomised controlled trial.
Effect of friction stir welding parameters on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the dissimilar Al5083–copper butt joint
Authors: Fotoohi Y , Rasaee S , Bisadi H , Zahedi M
Published: August 2013

In this paper, butt joining of Al5083 to commercially pure copper by friction stir welding method has been investigated. The effect of welding parameters, rotational speed of the tool and tool offset on joint strength and microstructure have been studied experimentally. By examining different situations, joint strength was optimized in terms of rotational speed and offset. Results show that tool offset to the copper side reduces defects and increases the joint strength. Welded joint that was conducted at the rotation speed of 800 r/min, tool traverse speed of 40 mm min−1 and 1 mm offset to the copper side had the highest tensile strength, about 96% of the weak base metal strength. Microstructure in the stir zone had different morphology from that observed in the base metal. The analyses were performed in intermetallic compounds formed in this area. Al4Cu9 and Al2Cu, were the intermetallic compounds detected in stir zone.
Experimental and finite element analysis of mechanical and fracture behaviour of Al2O3 particulate-filled A356 alloy composites: Part II
Authors: Kukshal Vikas , Gangwar Swati , Patnaik Amar
Published: August 2013

In the present work, alumina (Al2O3)-filled cast aluminium alloy (A356) composites were fabricated using stir casting technique by varying Al2O3 contents (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 wt.%). The fabricated composites were studied for their physical, mechanical and fracture toughness behaviour experimentally, theoretically and compared with finite element analysis method to validate the experimental and theoretical results. The physical and mechanical results showed that the addition of alumina to A356 alloy led to the improvement in tensile strength, flexural strength, hardness and impact strength. The void content of A356 alloy composites increased from 1.01% to 3.30% from 0 to 25 wt.% Al2O3. Young’s modulus value varied from 80 GPa to 111.27 GPa at 0 to 25 wt.% Al2O3 filled A356 alloy composite. The maximum value of flexural strength as calculated experimentally is found to be 389 MPa at 25 wt.% Al2O3. A 3D simulation of the composite using the unit cell model was developed in ANSYS using appropriate boundary conditions for tensile and flexural strength. Stress intensity factor for the crack propagation is determined using 2D simulation of the single side edge cracked plate in compact tension. The mechanical properties determined in papers I and II are used for the optimization purpose. Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution was applied to rank the composites using criteria based on mechanical properties like tensile strength, Young’s modulus, flexural strength and stress intensity factor. As per the results obtained from the optimization, the composite with 25 wt.% SiC exhibits the optimal properties.
A Mosaic of Suburbs
Authors: Picone Marco , Schilleci Filippo
Published: August 2013

Palermo suburbs have grown and developed at the expense of becoming isolated from other parts of the city. Ancient boroughs have been eradicated, alongside their urban identities. The challenges of a cosmopolitan and global world are felt even in middle-sized, fringe cities like Palermo, as its suburbs are forced to become tiles of an urban mosaic that is created by urban development. It is the duty of urban scholars to clarify and strengthen the relationships between these urban parts, and in the process restore the neglected notion of neighborhood. By overcoming the distinction between cities and urban sprawl, the controversial dispute may be resolved by urban scholars. Through historical and social analyses, this article outlines two possible transformations the boroughs can take: either as outskirts or as neighborhoods.
Pharmacists Improving Health at the Worksite
Authors: Lenz Thomas L.
Published: August 2013

The current US health care system is focused on treating the medical determinants of health. However, research shows that approximately 80% of the variance in a population’s health is determined by the nonmedical determinants of health. The care, health outcomes, and cost of an individual or population may be improved if the focus of the health care system were modified to place a greater emphasis on the non-determinants of health. Employee health has been identified as an area that may be able to improve individual health and the health of the community. Reviewed in this article are the outcomes of a pharmacist-run employee health program that focuses on the nondeterminants of health to improve the care, health outcomes, and costs of health care for one employer.
Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy
Authors: Harvey Lara B. , Ricciotti Hope A.
Published: August 2013

Nutrition is a known, powerful determinant of perinatal health and one that is increasingly recognized to have further reaching effects than previously understood. It is well known that healthy nutrition during the peripartum period can prevent birth defects in the neonate. New research suggests that peripartum nutrition may also modulate the risk of chronic disease in later life. Proper nutrition and weight gain during pregnancy also have maternal benefits including lowered risks of pregnancy related disorders. Good peripartum nutrition is a potential tool to impact the rising prevalence of obesity and related health disorders. This article will review nutrition guidance in pregnancy including macro and micronutrient recommendations, newer recommendations for appropriate weight gain based upon body mass index categories, and avoidance of potentially harmful substances. Current topics will also be discussed including fetal origins of adult disease, pregnancy after weight loss surgery, environmental bisphosphonates, and glycemic index diets.
Methodology for conducting the Children’s Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Telemental Health Treatment Study in multiple underserved communities
Authors: Vander Stoep Ann , Myers Kathleen
Published: July 2013

Background

Children living in nonmetropolitan communities are underserved by evidence-based mental health care and are underrepresented in clinical trials.

Purpose

In this article, we describe lessons learned in conducting the Children’s Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Telemental Health (TMH) Treatment Study (CATTS), a randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of TMH in improving outcomes of children with ADHD living in underserved communities.

Methods

Children were referred by primary care providers (PCPs). The test intervention group received six telepsychiatry sessions with each session followed by an caregiver behavior training session delivered in-person by a local therapist. A secure website was used to support decision making by the telepsychiatrists and to facilitate real-time collaboration between the telepsychiatrists and community therapists. The control group received a single telepsychiatry consultation. Questionnaires tapping ADHD symptoms and other outcomes were administered to parents and teachers online through a secure portal from personal computers.

Results

total of 88 PCPs in seven communities referred the 223 children who participated in the trial. Attrition in treatment sessions and research assessments was very low.

Lessons learned

TMH proved to be a viable means of providing evidence-based pharmacological services to children and training to local therapists. Recruitment was enhanced by offering the control group a telepsychiatry consultation. Site-specific strategies were needed to meet recruitment targets.

Conclusions

The CATTS trial used methods designed to optimize inclusion of children living in multiple dispersed and underserved areas. The study will serve as a model for other research projects aiming at reducing geographic disparities in access to quality mental health care.
Everolimus in the treatment of patients with advanced pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors: latest findings and interpretations
Authors: Liu Eric , Marincola Paula , Öberg Kjell
Published: July 2013

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms with various clinical presentations. More than half of patients present with so-called nonfunctioning tumors with no hormone-related symptoms, whereas other tumors produce symptoms like gastric problems, ulcers, hypoglycemia, skin rash and diarrhea related to hormone production. The traditional treatment for pNETs over the last three decades has been cytotoxic agents, mainly streptozotocin plus 5-fluorouracil or doxorubicin. Most recently two new compounds have been registered worldwide for the treatment of pNETs, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus and the tyrosine kinase inhibitor sunitinib. This paper concentrates on the use of mTOR inhibitors and the mechanisms of action. The mTOR pathway is altered in a number of pNETs. Everolimus (RAD001) is an orally active rapamycin analog and mTOR inhibitor. It blocks activity of the mTOR pathway by binding with high affinity to the cytoplasmic protein FKBP-12. The efficacy of everolimus in pNETs has been demonstrated in two multicenter studies (RADIANT 1 and 3). The RADIANT 3 study was a randomized controlled study in pNETs of everolimus 10 mg/day versus placebo, showing an increased progression-free survival (11.7 months versus 4.6 months) and hazard ratio of 0.35 ( p < 0.001). Current studies indicate that there is strong evidence to support the antitumor effect of rapalogs in pNETs. However, significant tumor reduction is very rarely obtained, usually in less than 10% of treated patients. Therefore, these drugs may be more effective in combination with other anticancer agents, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies as well as peptide receptor radiotherapy.
Analgesic Management of Chronic Pain Patients in the ICU
Authors: Yu Xiaobing
Published: August 2013

Management of chronic pain patients presents a unique challenge to critical care providers. These patients may have significant opioid tolerance and exhibit signs of opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Mechanical ventilation, hemodynamic instability and cognitive impairment further complicate the accurate assessment of pain and efficacy of treatment. This review will examine core topics such as management of opioid-tolerant patients, drug interactions, and implantable therapies that pose problems to critical care providers.
The Oncogene LRF Stimulates Proliferation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Inhibits Their Chondrogenic Differentiation
Authors: Yik Jasper H.N. , Li Huan , Acharya Chitrangada , Kumari Ratna , Fierro Fernando , Haudenschild Dominik R. , Nolta Jan , Di Cesare Paul E.
Published: July 2013

Objective:

The oncogene leukemia/lymphoma-related factor (LRF) enhances chondrosarcoma proliferation and malignancy. This study aimed to investigate the roles of LRF in chondrogenic differentiation of primary human bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs).

Design:

LRF was overexpressed in BMSC by lentiviral transduction. Chondrogenic differentiation of BMSC was induced by high-density pellet culture. Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to investigate changes in protein and mRNA levels, respectively, during chondrogenesis. Safranin-O staining, immunohistochemistry, and glycoaminoglycan contents were used to assess cartilage matrix deposition. BMSC proliferation was determined by mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity and cell counting. Cell cycle profiling was performed by flow cytometry.

Results:

LRF overexpression effectively inhibited protein and mRNA expression of chondrocyte markers and cartilage matrix deposition during chondrogenesis of BMSC. Endogenous LRF expression was constitutively high in undifferentiated BMSC but remained low in primary articular chondrocytes. Endogenous LRF protein was downregulated in a time-dependent manner during chondrogenesis. BMSCs overexpressing LRF had higher proliferation rates and cell population in the S phase. LRF suppressed p53 expression during chondrogenesis and this might prevent differentiating chondrocytes from entering a quiescent state.

Conclusion:

Our data showed that LRF is important for stimulating stem cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. It is known that LRF is highly expressed in the mouse limb buds prior to overt chondrogenesis; thus, LRF might function to prevent premature chondrogenic differentiation of stem cells.
Influence of pulse waveforms on electrodeposition of Zn coating
Authors: Dai J F , Wang W , Liang J , Chu Q W , Zhen Z Z
Published: August 2013

Zn coatings were electrodeposited successfully from a ChCl based ionic liquid with four different pulse waveforms, namely, square pulse, sine pulse, sawtooth pulse and triangular pulse. The compositions and microstructures of the Zn coatings were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The adhesion and corrosion resistance of the Zn coatings on magnesium alloy was evaluated using scratch tests and electrochemical polarisation tests respectively. It was shown that the pulse modes have a great influence on the morphologies and microstructures of the Zn coatings. The Zn coating deposited from sawtooth pulse was evidently uniform, smooth and dense compared with other coatings. Correspondingly, the sawtooth pulse coating exhibited better adhesion and corrosion resistance in comparison with other pulses.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of therapy-related chronic myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Takahashi Koichi , Pemmaraju Naveen , Strati Paolo , Nogueras-Gonzalez Graciela , Ning Jing , Bueso-Ramos Carlos , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Pierce Sherry , Cortes Jorge , Kantarjian Hagop , Garcia-Manero Guillermo
Published: July 2013

Key Points

t-CMML is associated with higher-risk cytogenetics and manifests poor prognosis. t-CMML should be recognized as one of the therapy-related myeloid neoplasms.
Discovery of cashmere goat (Capra hircus) microRNAs in skin and hair follicles by Solexa sequencing
Authors: Yuan Chao , Wang Xiaolong , Geng Rongqing , He Xiaolin , Qu Lei , Chen Yulin
Published: July 2013

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large family of endogenous, non-coding RNAs, about 22 nucleotides long, which regulate gene expression through sequence-specific base pairing with target mRNAs. Extensive studies have shown that miRNA expression in the skin changes remarkably during distinct stages of the hair cycle in humans, mice, goats and sheep.

Results

In this study, the skin tissues were harvested from the three stages of hair follicle cycling (anagen, catagen and telogen) in a fibre-producing goat breed. In total, 63,109,004 raw reads were obtained by Solexa sequencing and 61,125,752 clean reads remained for the small RNA digitalisation analysis. This resulted in the identification of 399 conserved miRNAs; among these, 326 miRNAs were expressed in all three follicular cycling stages, whereas 3, 12 and 11 miRNAs were specifically expressed in anagen, catagen, and telogen, respectively. We also identified 172 potential novel miRNAs by Mireap, 36 miRNAs were expressed in all three cycling stages, whereas 23, 29 and 44 miRNAs were specifically expressed in anagen, catagen, and telogen, respectively. The expression level of five arbitrarily selected miRNAs was analyzed by quantitative PCR, and the results indicated that the expression patterns were consistent with the Solexa sequencing results. Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses indicated that five major biological pathways (Metabolic pathways, Pathways in cancer, MAPK signalling pathway, Endocytosis and Focal adhesion) accounted for 23.08% of target genes among 278 biological functions, indicating that these pathways are likely to play significant roles during hair cycling.

Conclusions

During all hair cycle stages of cashmere goats, a large number of conserved and novel miRNAs were identified through a high-throughput sequencing approach. This study enriches the Capra hircus miRNA databases and provides a comprehensive miRNA transcriptome profile in the skin of goats during the hair follicle cycle.
Spatial distributions of Pseudomonas fluorescens colony variants in mixed-culture biofilms
Authors: Workentine Matthew L , Wang Siyuan , Ceri Howard , Turner Raymond J
Published: July 2013

Background

The emergence of colony morphology variants in structured environments is being recognized as important to both niche specialization and stress tolerance.Pseudomonas fluorescensdemonstrates diversity in both its natural environment, the rhizosphere, and in laboratory grown biofilms. Sub-populations of these variants within a biofilm have been suggested as important contributors to antimicrobial stress tolerance given their altered susceptibility to various agents. As such it is of interest to determine how these variants might be distributed in the biofilm environment.

Results

Here we present an analysis of the spatial distribution ofPseudomonas fluorescenscolony morphology variants in mixed-culture biofilms with the wildtype phenotype. These findings reveal that two variant colony morphotypes demonstrate a significant growth advantage over the wildtype morphotype in the biofilm environment. The two variant morphotypes out-grew the wildtype across the entire biofilm and this occurred within 24 h and was maintained through to 96 h. This competitive advantage was not observed in homogeneous broth culture.

Conclusions

The significant advantage that the variants demonstrate in biofilm colonization over the wildtype denotes the importance of this phenotype in structured environments.
Comparison of CDC and sequence-based molecular typing of syphilis treponemes: tpr and arp loci are variable in multiple samples from the same patient
Authors: Mikalová Lenka , Pospíšilová Petra , Woznicová Vladana , Kuklová Ivana , Zákoucká Hana , Šmajs David
Published: July 2013

Background

Molecular typing of syphilis-causing strains provides important epidemiologic data. We tested whether identified molecular subtypes were identical in PCR-positive parallel samples taken from the same patient at a same time. We also tested whether subtype prevalence differs in skin and blood samples.

Results

Eighteen syphilis positive patients (showing both positive serology and PCR), with two PCR-typeable parallel samples taken at the same time, were tested with both CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) and sequence-based typing. Samples taken from 9 of 18 patients were completely typed for TP0136, TP0548, 23S rDNA, arp, and tpr loci. The CDC typing revealed 11 distinct genotypes while the sequence-based typing identified 6 genotypes. When results from molecular typing of TP0136, TP0548, and 23S rDNA were analyzed in samples taken from the same patient, no discrepancies in the identified genotypes were found; however, there were discrepancies in 11 of 18 patients (61.1%) samples relative to the arp and tpr loci. In addition to the above described typing, 127 PCR-positive swabs and whole blood samples were tested for individual genotype frequencies. The repetition number for the arp gene was lower in whole blood (WB) samples compared to swab samples. Similarly, the most common tpr RFLP type “d” was found to have lower occurrence rates in WB samples while type “e” had an increased occurrence in these samples.

Conclusions

Differences in the CDC subtypes identified in parallel samples indicated genetic instability of the arp and tpr loci and suggested limited applicability of the CDC typing system in epidemiological studies. Differences in treponemal genotypes detected in whole blood and swab samples suggested important differences between both compartments and/or differences in adherence of treponeme variants to human cells.