bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity encoding for fast 1H MR spectroscopic imaging water reference acquisition
Authors: Birch Rebecca , Peet Andrew C. , Arvanitis Theodoros N. , Wilson Martin
Published: July 2014

Purpose: Accurate and fast 1H MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) water reference scans are important for absolute quantification of metabolites. However, the additional acquisition time required often precludes the water reference quantitation method for MRSI studies. Sensitivity encoding (SENSE) is a successful MR technique developed to reduce scan time. This study quantitatively assesses the accuracy of SENSE for water reference MRSI data acquisition, compared with the more commonly used reduced resolution technique. Methods: 2D MRSI water reference data were collected from a phantom and three volunteers at 3 Tesla for full acquisition (306 s); 2× reduced resolution (64 s) and SENSE R = 3 (56 s) scans. Water amplitudes were extracted using MRS quantitation software (TARQUIN). Intensity maps and Bland‐Altman statistics were generated to assess the accuracy of the fast‐MRSI techniques. Results: The average mean and standard deviation of differences from the full acquisition were 2.1 ± 3.2% for SENSE and 10.3 ± 10.7% for the reduced resolution technique, demonstrating that SENSE acquisition is approximately three times more accurate than the reduced resolution technique. Conclusion: SENSE was shown to accurately reconstruct water reference data for the purposes of in vivo absolute metabolite quantification, offering significant improvement over the more commonly used reduced resolution technique. Magn Reson Med 73:2081–2086, 2015. © 2014 The Authors. Magnetic Resonance in Medicine Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society of Medicine in Resonance.
A new framework for implicit restarting of the Krylov–Schur algorithm
Authors: Bujanović Zvonimir , Drmač Zlatko
Published: July 2014

This paper introduces a new framework for implicit restarting of the Krylov–Schur algorithm. It is shown that restarting with arbitrary polynomial filter is possible by reassigning some of the eigenvalues of the Rayleigh quotient through a rank‐one correction, implemented using only the elementary transformations (translation and similarity) of the Krylov decomposition. This framework includes the implicitly restarted Arnoldi (IRA) algorithm and the Krylov–Schur algorithm with implicit harmonic restart as special cases. Further, it reveals that the IRA algorithm can be turned into an eigenvalue assignment method. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrosprayed recovered wool keratin nanoparticles
Authors: Ebrahimgol Farzaneh , Tavanai Hossein , Alihosseini Farzaneh , Khayamian Taghi
Published: July 2014

This work reports on producing wool keratin nanoparticles through electrospraying. Wool keratin is a natural biodegradable and biocompatible protein. Keratin powder has found application in hygiene, cosmetics, filtration, tissue engineering scaffolds, and controlled drug release. Like other nano materials, the performance of keratin in submicron size range changes drastically. Electrospraying is a technique that is capable of producing nanosized, regular, and spherical particles. To prepare the electrospraying wool keratin solution, keratin was recovered from descaled wool fibers by dissolving it in mercaptoethanol first, and keratin sponge was obtained. Then, the keratin sponge was dissolved in formic acid that provided the electrospraying solution. This research involved primarily an investigation on the effect of important electrospraying conditions such as polymer concentration, feed rate, voltage, and nozzle‐collector distance on the average particle size of the electrosprayed nanoparticles. The results showed that the proper concentration of keratin in formic acid for the electrospraying keratin nanoparticle was about 0.5% (w/v). As far as electrospraying conditions are concerned, decreasing feed rate and increasing nozzle‐collector distance led to lower average particle size. Voltage did not show a practically significant effect on the average particle size. The average size of the electrosprayed keratin nanoparticles fabricated in this work lies in the range of 36–72 nm. Fourier transform infrared Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra showed that electrosprayed keratin nanoparticles contain –SO2–S– and –SO–S– linkages. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Core‐multishell nanotransporters enhance skin penetration of the cell‐penetrating peptide low molecular weight protamine
Authors: Do Nhung , Weindl Günther , Fleige Emanuel , Salwiczek Mario , Koksch Beate , Haag Rainer , Schäfer‐Korting Monika
Published: July 2014

Several peptides may enable innovative, sophisticated therapeutic approaches. Their hydrophilic nature and high molecular weight, however, often limit the applicability to topical and transdermal treatment. Aiming to enhance drug delivery to the skin, we examined the loading of two model peptides—the Cell‐Penetrating Peptides (CPPs) Low Molecular Weight Protamine (LMWP) and penetratin—to Core‐Multishell (CMS) nanotransporters which are well tolerated and known to enhance skin penetration most efficiently. Furthermore, we followed skin penetration of dye‐tagged LMWP in the presence of CMS nanotransporters taking enzymatic peptide cleavage into account. As expected, Isothermal Titration Calorimetry indicated that the large peptides do not interact with CMS nanotransporters. Additionally, size exclusion chromatography and Dynamic Light Scattering confirmed no loading of CPPs to CMS nanoparticles. Due to less LMWP aggregation, concomitant topical application of LMWP and CMS nanotransporters did not enhance the penetration of intact LWMP but enhanced the penetration of peptide fragments in viable layers of human skin ex vivo. Conclusively, our results indicate that CMS nanotransporters impair the skin barrier function leading to increased skin penetration of less voluminous peptides, which may be of future clinical relevance—in particular with those failing to be CPPs. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bonding structure and mechanical properties of carbon nitride bilayer films with Ti and TiN interlayer
Authors: Zhou Bing , Jiang Xiaohong , Rogachev A. V. , Piliptsou D. G. , Sun Dongping , Shen Ruiqi
Published: July 2014

Carbon nitride (CNx) bilayer films with Ti and TiN interlayer were synthesized by cathode arc technique at various nitrogen pressures (PN2). The dependences of microstructure and bonding composition of the films on the PN2 and interlayer were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Microstructure evolution consisting of the ordering and size of Csp2 clusters, the faction of N–sp3/N–sp2 bonds and graphite‐like/pyridine‐like configurations was dominated by PN2, interlayer and annealing. The results showed that Ti and TiN interlayer decrease the atomic ratio of N/C and increase clustering Csp2. High PN2 induces the formation of C ≡ N and C − N bonds, the increase of sp2‐bonding content and the growth of Csp2 clusters. A large part of nitrogen atoms are coordinated with sp2‐hybridized carbon (minimum 71% for annealed CNx monolayer). TiN/CNx bilayer had a higher content of pyridine‐like configuration. Morphological characteristics of CNx monolayer and bilayer mainly depend on the surface character (roughness and surface energy) of the sublayer. The internal stress in the as‐deposited Ti/CNx bilayer is smaller, but it after annealing is higher than that of CNx monolayer and TiN/CNx bilayer. These results may be of interest for studying the CNx films with controlled bonding composition and expected engineering properties. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ionic liquid matrices for improved detection of proteins and polymers in time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry
Authors: Dertinger Jennifer J. , Walker Amy V.
Published: July 2014

The analyte signal enhancements of polymers and proteins were investigated using ionic liquid (IL) matrix‐enhanced SIMS. The molecular weight of the polymer does not play a significant role in determining the magnitude of the n‐mer and oligomer ion intensity enhancements. The analyte ion intensities enhancements are strongly dependent on the chemistry of the polymer side and terminal groups. Further, it was observed that ILs based on the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization matrix 2,5 dihydroxybenzoic acid were the most effective matrices. The molecular ion intensity enhancements of peptides including bradykinin were also investigated. Using bradykinins with different terminal amino acids, it is observed that molecular ion intensities are significantly enhanced using IL matrices if the N or C terminal amino acid can accept (or donate) a proton. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
College chemistry students' understanding of potential energy in the context of atomic–molecular interactions
Authors: Becker Nicole M. , Cooper Melanie M.
Published: July 2014

Understanding the energy changes that occur as atoms and molecules interact forms the foundation for understanding the macroscopic energy changes that accompany chemical processes. In order to identify ways to scaffold students' understanding of the connections between atomic–molecular and macroscopic energy perspectives, we conducted a qualitative study of students' conceptualization of potential energy at the atomic–molecular level. We used semi‐structured interviews and open‐ended surveys to explore how students understand potential energy and use the idea of potential energy to explain atomic–molecular interactions in simple systems. Findings suggest that undergraduate chemistry students may rely on intuitive interpretations of potential energy, incorrect interpretations of curricular definitions (including the idea that potential energy represents stored energy) and heuristics rather than foundational understandings of the relationships between atomic–molecular structure, electrostatic forces and energy. Thus, we suggest that more explicit attention to the nature and role of potential energy in the undergraduate chemistry curriculum may be needed. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 51: 789–808, 2014
High‐impact toughness poly(vinyl chloride)/(α‐methylstyrene)‐acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer/acrylic resin blends: Thermal properties and toughening mechanism
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Zhang Jun , Liu Hongyong
Published: July 2014

High impact toughness poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC)/(α‐methylstyrene)‐acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer (70/30)/acrylic resin (ACR) blends were prepared. Incorporation of ACR did not play a negative role in thermal properties. The glass transition temperature, heat distortion temperature, and thermal stability remained constant as ACR content increased. With the addition of 10 phr (parts by weight per hundred parts of resin) of ACR, the impact strength increased by 20.0 times and 7.2 times compared with that of pure PVC and that of PVC/(α‐methylstyrene)‐acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene copolymer (70/30) blends, respectively. However, tensile strength and flexural properties decreased. The morphology changed from domain distortions to crazing with fibrillar plastic deformation as ACR content increased. The toughening mechanism varied from “shear yielding” to “craze with shear yielding,” which depended on the content of ACR. This study presents the finding that addition of ACR drastically improved impact toughness without sacrificing any heat resistance, and the enhanced impact strength could be at the same level of supertough nylon. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 21:205–214, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synergistic effect of acetonedicarboxylic acid diethyl ester and calcium/zinc stearates on poly(vinyl chloride) thermal stability
Authors: Li Degang , Xie Linghua , Zhang Jun , Yu Xianjin , Yu Yuanzhang , Ai Hongqi , Tang Shouyu
Published: July 2014

Acetonedicarboxylic acid diethyl ester (AADE) is obtained by the interaction of ethanol with acetonedicarboxylic acid that is prepared from anhydrous citric acid. The thermal stabilizing effect of calcium and zinc stearates (CaSt2/ZnSt2) combined with AADE on poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC) is evaluated by the Congo red test, conductivity test, thermal aging test, and thermogravimetric analysis. The results of thermal stability tests show that the addition of AADE can improve not only the thermal stability but also the color stability of PVC. The improvement in stabilizing effectiveness is ascribed to the synergistic effect between CaSt2/ZnSt2 and AADE. The thermal stability mechanism of AADE is also under discussion with the help of quantum chemical calculations. The results of quantum chemical calculations indicate that, besides having the ability to form complexes with zinc ion, AADE has an evident tendency to replace the allyl chloride of the PVC. The results of the thermal aging test and quantum chemical calculations show that the thermal stabilizing effectiveness of AADE is higher than that of stearoyl benzoyl methane (β‐Diketones). J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 21:228–234, 2015. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Wind energy literature survey no. 33
Authors: Pavese Christian
Published: July 2014

As a service to readers, Wind Energy regularly conducts literature surveys and publishes lists of relevant articles drawn from recent issues of Wind Energy itself and a large number of periodicals, including the following: Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics, International Journal of Energy Research, Renewable Energy, Energy Sources, Journal of Solar Energy Engineering, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Journal, Electric Power Components and Systems along with a number of periodicals published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and so on. The list is limited exclusively to journals not specifically devoted to wind energy and its applications. To assist the reader, the list is separated into broad categories. Although many papers fit several categories, each paper is listed only once under the category thought most appropriate. Please note that the inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. Compiled by Christian Pavese, Department of Wind Energy, Technical University of Denmark, PO 49, DK‐4000 Roskilde, Denmark. Please e‐mail any suggestions to cpav@dtu.dk. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of measured and calculated spectra emitted by the X‐ray tube used at the Gustave Roussy radiobiological service
Authors: Plagnard Johann
Published: July 2014

Along with the strengthening of the control processes of irradiation systems used in industrial and medical sectors, direct measurement of spectra emitted by X‐ray tubes is becoming a necessity to ensure beam quality. To reach that aim, a research project was initiated at the Henri Becquerel Laboratory to develop a system to measure, with semiconductor detectors (Ge and CdTe), the spectra emitted by X‐ray tubes. However, the measured spectra are distorted by artifacts associated with the detection processes. Therefore, two algorithms were developed to correct for the pile‐up distortions due to the high count rate and for the photon escape phenomenon, which takes place into the crystal of the semiconductor detectors. Our system was tested using the X‐ray tube used by the Gustave Roussy (France) radiobiological service. Measurements with two high voltages (70 and 200 kV) were carried out using a CdTe detector equipped with a micrometric positioning system and a specific collimator to reduce the high count rate. The measured and calculated spectra using the XCOMP5 and SpeKcalc V1.0 programs were compared. This comparison reveals a good agreement. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Randomized Prospective Study Comparing Acquisition of Laparoscopic Skills in Three‐Dimensional (3D) vs. Two‐Dimensional (2D) Laparoscopy
Authors: Alaraimi B. , El Bakbak W. , Sarker S. , Makkiyah S. , Al‐Marzouq A. , Goriparthi R. , Bouhelal A. , Quan V. , Patel B.
Published: July 2014

Background

We aimed to compare the performance of novices with three‐dimensional (3D) versus two‐dimensional (2D) laparoscopy using Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) tasks.

Methods

Fifty‐six novices with no uncorrected visual problems were randomly allocated to 2D and 3D groups. All candidates practiced FLS tasks on a box trainer until they achieved proficiency. Their performance was assessed by considering completion time, number of repetitions, and number of errors following the validated FLS proficiency criteria.

Results

Twenty‐five participants in each group completed the training curriculum. The median performance time (in minutes) for the 3D group was 216, which was less than that of the 2D group of 247 min (P = 0.266). The median numbers of repetitions and errors were lower for the 3D group versus the 2D group: 108 versus 121 (P = 0.008) and 27 versus 105 (P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusion

Stereoscopic vision improved accuracy in laparoscopic skills for novices, which was manifested in reduced numbers of repetitions and errors. However, it does not affect the global performance time across all tasks.
Despite Limited Specificity, Computed Tomography Predicts Lateralization and Clinical Outcome in Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Kline G. A. , Dias V. C. , So B. , Harvey A. , Pasieka J. L.
Published: July 2014

Background

Computed tomography (CT) of the adrenals is a common first step for investigation of primary aldosteronism (PA). However, prior studies report poor specificity, necessitating adrenal vein sampling (AVS) prior to surgical consideration.

Methods

We examined our AVS database to determine whether CT adrenal findings could help select patients with a high likelihood of lateralization by AVS or high‐value blood pressure (BP) outcomes. Subjects (N = 113) with validated outcomes were divided into groups of CT ‘positive’ or CT ‘negative’ according to the presence or absence of an adrenal mass and compared for the outcomes of lateralization by AVS or proportions achieving normotension off medications following surgery.

Results

For patients with CT adrenal masses, there was a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) for both outcomes (6.3 and 9.7, p < 0.01). In subgroup analysis, age <40 years carried particularly high odds for lateralization and cure when a CT mass was present (ORs 45 and 26, p < 0.01). Young individuals with normal CT adrenals rarely lateralized (10 %) and, in such patients, even factors like hypokalemia, body mass index (BMI), and plasma aldosterone level did not change the result on regression analysis.

Conclusions

CT‐imaged adrenal masses strongly predicted lateralization by AVS and normotension with surgical treatment of lateralized PA. In PA, CT‐positive patients should indeed be offered AVS and/or surgery given the high chance of good outcomes; younger CT‐negative patients should be advised of a low chance of finding surgical disease by AVS.
Robotic Splenectomy: What is the Real Benefit?
Authors: Giza Dana‐Elena , Tudor Stefan , Purnichescu‐Purtan Raluca Roxana , Vasilescu Catalin
Published: July 2014

Background

The laparoscopic approach to a difficult splenectomy requires a longer total operative time and is frequently associated with an increased risk of bleeding and a high conversion rate.

Methods

A total of 418 elective splenectomies were registered in the Department of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation of Fundeni Clinical Institute between January 1995 and June 2012, of which 299 splenectomies (212 laparoscopic and 77 robotic) were performed by a single surgical team and retrospectively documented. The effect of the learning curve and the relative complexity of each type of procedure were analyzed using the Minimally Invasive Splenectomy Score, which further allowed categorizing the splenectomies as simple or difficult. Statistical analyses using the CUSUM algorithm of the intra‐ and postoperative parameters of the laparoscopic and robotic approaches, for both the simple and the difficult splenectomies, were performed.

Results

The results of the statistical analyses clearly indicated that there was a learning curve effect for laparoscopic splenectomy but not for robotic splenectomy. When compared with the laparoscopic approach in difficult splenectomies, the robotic approach had a shorter total operative time (84.13 vs. 97.2 min), less blood loss (30.88 vs. 156.9 ml), and decreased risk of hemorrhagic complications during surgery.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic splenectomy remains the approach of choice for simple splenectomies in the surgical treatment for common indications. The robotic system is particularly beneficial in difficult splenectomies (i.e., partial splenectomy, splenectomy in liver cirrhosis, splenic tumors, or malignant hemopathies).
Orthopedic management of the extremities in patients with Morquio A syndrome
Authors: White Klane K. , Jester Andrea , Bache C. Edward , Harmatz Paul R. , Shediac Renée , Thacker Mihir M. , Mackenzie William G.
Published: July 2014

Background

Musculoskeletal involvement in Morquio A syndrome (mucopolysaccharidosis IVA; MPS IVA) contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. While the spinal manifestations of the disorder have received considerable attention in the literature, there have been few reported studies to date to guide the management of the orthopedic problems associated with the lower and upper extremities.

Purpose

The objective was to develop recommendations for the management of the extremities in patients with Morquio A syndrome.

Methods

A group of specialists in orthopedics, pediatrics and genetics with experience in the management of Morquio A patients convened to review and discuss current clinical practices and to develop preliminary recommendations. Evidence from the literature was retrieved. Recommendations were further refined until consensus was reached.

Results and conclusions

This present article provides a detailed review and discussion of the lower and upper extremity deformities in Morquio A syndrome and presents recommendations for the assessment and treatment of these complications. Key issues, including the importance of early diagnosis and the implications of medical therapy, are also addressed. The recommendations herein represent an attempt to develop a uniform and practical approach to managing patients with Morquio A syndrome and improving their outcomes.
Gallbladder perforation in cholecystitis with liver abscess formation and septic thrombophlebitis of portal vein mimicking presentation of liver malignancy
Authors: Lin Hsin‐Chi , Chen Tseng‐Shing
Published: July 2014

Gallbladder perforation is a rare complication of cholecystitis. Similarly, septic thrombophlebitis of the portal vein, also called pylephlebitis, is another rare complication of intra‐abdominal infections including cholecystitis. Both gallbladder perforation and pylephlebitis are associated with significantly higher morbidity and mortality. Herein, we report a patient with an atypical presentation of gallbladder perforation and liver abscess formation. A 68‐year‐old man suffered from malaise, poor appetite, and body weight loss for 1 month. Liver mass lesion and portal vein thrombosis were detected by ultrasound at a local clinic. He was referred to our institution under the tentative diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. He underwent abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography examinations at our hospital. Cholecystitis with gallbladder perforation was highly suspected. Broad‐spectrum antibiotics were administered immediately. Percutaneous transhepatic gallbladder drainage was performed in this case, and pigtail drainage for liver abscess was done later. The patient's condition—cholecystitis, liver abscess, and pylephlebitis (followed by ultrasound)—improved after treatment. Furthermore, the patient recovered his appetite and his body weight increased.
Twinkle, twinkle little star: Photoswitchable fluorophores for super‐resolution imaging
Authors: Chozinski Tyler J. , Gagnon Lauren A. , Vaughan Joshua C.
Published: July 2014

Photoswitchable fluorescent probes are key elements of newly developed super‐resolution fluorescence microscopy techniques that enable far‐field interrogation of biological systems with a resolution of 50 nm or better. In contrast to most conventional fluorescence imaging techniques, the performance achievable by most super‐resolution techniques is critically impacted by the photoswitching properties of the fluorophores. Here we review photoswitchable fluorophores for super‐resolution imaging with discussion of the fundamental principles involved, a focus on practical implementation with available tools, and an outlook on future directions.
A nineteen gene‐based risk score classifier predicts prognosis of colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Kim Seon-Kyu , Kim Seon-Young , Kim Jeong-Hwan , Roh Seon Ae , Cho Dong-Hyung , Kim Yong Sung , Kim Jin Cheon
Published: July 2014

Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients frequently experience disease recurrence and distant metastasis. This study aimed to identify prognostic indicators, including individual responses to chemotherapy, in CRC patients. RNA‐seq data was generated using 54 samples (normal colon, primary CRC, and liver metastases) from 18 CRC patients and genes associated with CRC aggressiveness were identified. A risk score based on these genes was developed and validated in four independent CRC patient cohorts (n = 1063). Diverse statistical methods were applied to validate the risk scoring system, including a generalized linear model likelihood ratio test, Kaplan–Meier curves, a log‐rank test, and the Cox model. TREM1 and CTGF were identified as two activated regulators associated with CRC aggressiveness. A risk score based on 19 genes regulated by TREM1 or CTGF activation (TCA19) was a significant prognostic indicator. In multivariate and subset analyses based on pathological staging, TCA19 was an independent risk factor (HR = 1.894, 95% CI = 1.227–2.809, P = 0.002). Subset stratification in stage III patients revealed that TCA19 had prognostic potential and identified patients who would benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy, regardless of age. The TCA19 predictor represents a novel diagnostic tool for identifying high‐risk CRC patients and possibly predicting the response to adjuvant chemotherapy.
Two Sides of Court Mediation in Today’s Southwest Grassroots China: an Empirical Study in T Court, Yunnan Province
Authors: Hao XIONG
Published: July 2014

Court mediation is now playing a crucial role in the Chinese legal system. Based on two case studies in Yunnan Province, this paper examines how court mediation works in Southwest China. It finds that court mediation can expand the capacity of the court concerning case acceptance, and is capable of fixing multicentre disputes and complicated social problems. However, the paper also points out that when encountering some ill-suited cases, justice may be undermined and the judge’s role may be confused. Therefore, it is necessary to pass some law to exclude the ill-suited cases from the mediation track when promoting court mediation in Southwest China.
A Functional Needs Approach to Emergency Planning
Authors: Zod Rebecca , Fick-Osborne Robin , Peters Eleanor B.
Published: July 2014

Objective

This study was conducted to test the ability of the St Louis County Department of Health to efficiently dispense medication to individuals with functional needs during a public health emergency and develop new guidelines for future emergency planning. Historically, people with functional needs have been vulnerable in emergency situations, and emergency planners are responsible for creating equal access for mass prophylaxis events.

Methods

Measures to create access for individuals with functional needs were tested in a countywide exercise in which 40 volunteers with functional needs walked through an open point of dispensing location to collect medication as if it were a real emergency. Actions were informed by representatives from the functional needs community in the St Louis area.

Results

During the exercise, medications were successfully dispensed to all participants. Many participants offered feedback for future program design.

Conclusions

Outcomes indicated the importance of working closely with the community organizations that serve people with functional needs in designing appropriate response measures, providing sensitivity training to staff members, employing useful technology, and using visual and verbal cues. The lessons learned from this exercise apply to emergency planning nationwide, as planning efforts for persons with functional needs still lag significantly.(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2014;0:1–9)
Absolute Magnitude Calibration for Dwarfs Based on the Colour–Magnitude Diagrams of Galactic Clusters
Authors: Karaali S. , Gökçe E. Yaz , Bilir S. , Güçtekin S. Tunçel
Published: July 2014

We present two absolute magnitude calibrations for dwarfs based on colour–magnitude diagrams of Galactic clusters. The combination of the Mg absolute magnitudes of the dwarf fiducial sequences of the clusters M92, M13, M5, NGC 2420, M67, and NGC 6791 with the corresponding metallicities provides absolute magnitude calibration for a given (g − r)0 colour. The calibration is defined in the colour interval 0.25 ≤ (g − r)0 ≤ 1.25 mag and it covers the metallicity interval − 2.15 ≤ [Fe/H] ≤ +0.37 dex. The absolute magnitude residuals obtained by the application of the procedure to another set of Galactic clusters lie in the interval − 0.15 ≤ ΔMg ≤ +0.12 mag. The mean and standard deviation of the residuals are < ΔMg > = − 0.002 and σ = 0.065 mag, respectively. The calibration of the MJ absolute magnitude in terms of metallicity is carried out by using the fiducial sequences of the clusters M92, M13, 47 Tuc, NGC 2158, and NGC 6791. It is defined in the colour interval 0.90 ≤ (V − J)0 ≤ 1.75 mag and it covers the same metallicity interval of the Mg calibration. The absolute magnitude residuals obtained by the application of the procedure to the cluster M5 ([Fe/H] = −1.40 dex) and 46 solar metallicity, − 0.45 ≤ [Fe/H] ≤ +0.35 dex, field stars lie in the interval − 0.29 and + 0.35 mag. However, the range of 87% of them is rather shorter, − 0.20 ≤ ΔMJ ≤ +0.20 mag. The mean and standard deviation of all residuals are < ΔMJ > =0.05 and σ = 0.13 mag, respectively. The derived relations are applicable to stars older than 4 Gyr for the Mg calibration, and older than 2 Gyr for the MJ calibration. The cited limits are the ages of the youngest calibration clusters in the two systems.
Inaction Inertia in International Negotiations: The Consequences of Missed Opportunities
Authors: Terris Lesley G. , Tykocinski Orit E.
Published: July 2014

In international disputes, forgone settlement offers are frequently lamented, but their impact on the dynamics of ongoing negotiations is largely overlooked. In the psychological literature, however, the consequences of missing an advantageous action opportunity have been studied extensively in the context of the inaction inertia phenomenon. According to this literature, forgoing attractive action opportunities renders decision makers susceptible to regret and increases the likelihood that subsequent opportunities will also be missed. This article explores the explanatory potential of the inaction inertia effect in the context of international negotiations. Findings based on laboratory experiments and analysis of the negotiations between Israel and Hamas over the release of the Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit strongly suggest that the concept of inaction inertia can enrich the understanding of failures and deadlocks in international negotiations. The article defines the conditions that are instrumental in identifying inertia-induced deadlocks and discusses factors that encourage the termination of inaction inertia and promote dispute settlement.
Ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide versus ciprofloxacin alone in the treatment of diffuse otitis externa
Authors: Lorente J , Sabater F , Rivas M P , Fuste J , Risco J , Gómez M
Published: July 2014

Objective:

We aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide (antibiotic plus corticosteroid) ear drops compared to ciprofloxacin (antibiotic) ear drops in diffuse otitis externa.

Methods:

This was a multicentre, randomised, parallel-group, double-blind study involving 590 patients of both sexes aged 7 years or older.

Results:

The rate of clinical cure was higher (p = 0.01) with ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide than with ciprofloxacin alone. The mean total symptom score was lower with ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide (p = 0.005). No differences were found in the percentage of patients reporting resolution of otalgia between patients receiving ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide and patients receiving only ciprofloxacin. Resolution of oedema and otorrhoea (p = 0.003 and p = 0.002, respectively) was higher with ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide, as was eradication or presumed eradication (p = 0.003). There were eight mild adverse events, three with the ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide combination (not related to the treatment) and five when ciprofloxacin was administered alone (directly related to the treatment).

Conclusions:

Ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide is a more effective treatment for diffuse otitis externa than ciprofloxacin alone. The ciprofloxacin plus fluocinolone acetonide combination also has an excellent safety profile.
Spasmodic dysphonia: a seven-year audit of dose titration and demographics in the Indian population
Authors: Nerurkar N K , Banu T P
Published: July 2014

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the demographics of spasmodic dysphonia in the Indian population and to analyse the optimum dose titration of botulinum toxin type A in this group. A comparative analysis with international studies was also performed.

Method:

The study involved a retrospective analysis and audit of botulinum toxin type A dose titration in spasmodic dysphonia patients who visited our voice clinic between January 2005 and January 2012.

Results:

The average total therapeutic dose required for patients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia was 4.2 U per patient per vocal fold (total 8.4 U per patient), and for patients with abductor spasmodic dysphonia, it was 4.6 U per patient.

Conclusion:

Our audit revealed that 80 per cent of the spasmodic dysphonia patients were male, which contrasts dramatically with international studies, wherein around 80 per cent of spasmodic dysphonia patients were female. Our study also revealed a higher dose titration of botulinum toxin for the Indian spasmodic dysphonia population in both adductor and abductor spasmodic dysphonia cases.
Does asking about suicide and related behaviours induce suicidal ideation? What is the evidence?
Authors: Dazzi T. , Gribble R. , Wessely S. , Fear N. T.
Published: July 2014

There is a commonly held perception in psychology that enquiring about suicidality, either in research or clinical settings, can increase suicidal tendencies. While the potential vulnerability of participants involved in psychological research must be addressed, apprehensions about conducting studies of suicidality create a Catch-22 situation for researchers. Ethics committees require evidence that proposed studies will not cause distress or suicidal ideation, yet a lack of published research can mean allaying these fears is difficult. Concerns also exist in psychiatric settings where risk assessments are important for ensuring patient safety. But are these concerns based on evidence? We conducted a review of the published literature examining whether enquiring about suicide induces suicidal ideation in adults and adolescents, and general and at-risk populations. None found a statistically significant increase in suicidal ideation among participants asked about suicidal thoughts. Our findings suggest acknowledging and talking about suicide may in fact reduce, rather than increase suicidal ideation, and may lead to improvements in mental health in treatment-seeking populations. Recurring ethical concerns about asking about suicidality could be relaxed to encourage and improve research into suicidal ideation and related behaviours without negatively affecting the well-being of participants.
The lithic microbial ecosystems of Antarctica’s McMurdo Dry Valleys
Authors: De Los Ríos Asunción , Wierzchos Jacek , Ascaso Carmen
Published: July 2014

We review the lithic microbial ecosystems of the McMurdo Dry Valleys as the main form of terrestrial colonization in this region, and assess the role of environmental controls such as temperature, solar radiation, water availability, wind, nutrient availability, salinity and the physicochemical properties of the colonized rock. Epilithic communities, especially those dominated by lichens, are able to withstand extreme environmental conditions but subsurface endolithic microhabitats provide more tolerant conditions. Endolithic microbial communities can be grouped into two main classes: eukaryotic communities (dominated by lichenized fungi and algae) and prokaryotic communities (dominated by cyanobacteria). Heterotrophic bacteria and non-lichenized algae and fungi (mainly black fungi) are also components of these communities. These lithobiontic microorganisms generally have effective mechanisms against freezing temperatures and desiccation. Extracellular polymeric substances play an important role not only in protecting microbial cells but also in community organization and in mitigating microenvironmental conditions. Antarctic lithobiontic communities are comprised of microbial consortia within which multiple interactions between the different biological and abiotic components are essential for microbial survival, whilst fossils and biomarkers provide evidence of earlier successful microbial life in Antarctic deserts. Finally, the uniqueness of the present lithobiont assemblages suggests they are the outcome of geographical isolation during the evolution of the continent and not merely the descendants of a subset of globally distributed taxa that have adapted to the extreme environmental conditions.
Patent ductus arteriosus stenting for palliation of severe pulmonary arterial hypertension in childhood
Authors: D’Alto Michele , Santoro Giuseppe , Palladino Maria T. , Parisi Francesco , Russo Maria G.
Published: July 2014

A 4.5-year-old child with severe idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension underwent right-heart catheterisation, showing suprasystemic pulmonary pressure and a tiny patent ductus arteriosus with trivial right-to-left shunting. The ductus arteriosus was successfully stented with a bare metal stent. At 1-year follow-up, a remarkable improvement was observed in clinical status, functional capacity, and serology. Echocardiography confirmed a favourable cardiac remodelling.
Reflections on the deep structure of place; ruin and transformation, decay and construction Cities and other ruins: Reflections on Astley Castle
Authors: Davis Juliet
Published: July 2014

All too often, a fascination with ruins produces little more than reflection on the qualities of decay and abandonment that stimulate nostalgia for lost and vanquished pasts. In this exhibition by Witherford Watson Mann, a subtle reflection was provided on the potential for ruins of diverse kinds to have contemporary life and relevance. Indeed, the beauty of the exhibition belied the willingness of this practice to engage with places that would not often be regarded as ruins worthy of careful study or adaptation, and to transform them precisely by doing so.
Measuring-up in timber: a critical perspective on mid- and high-rise timber building design
Authors: Fleming Patrick , Smith Simon , Ramage Michael
Published: July 2014

Architects, engineers and researchers alike often cite practical reasons for building with wood. Since the development of curved glulam beams and columns over a century ago, the widespread use of massive structural timber elements has allowed architects and engineers to design and build in wood with unprecedented speed and scale. Moreover, rising concerns of climate change and the carbon-dioxide emissions associated with construction encourage the use of wood as a viable alternative to steel and concrete, due to CO2 sequestration in trees.

In mid- and high-rise buildings, the current shift from steel and concrete towards massive structural timber elements like glulam, laminated-veneer lumber (LVL) and cross-laminated timber (CLT) is evident in a number of recently completed timber buildings in Europe, ranging from seven to nine storeys. Several speculative design proposals have also been made for ‘timber towers’ of thirty, fortytwo and even sixty-five storeys, recognising that designing with massive structural timber elements in high-rise buildings is still in its infancy. This paper offers a new perspective on building with wood at this scale, beyond carbon sequestrationand construction.
What is surficial thought in architecture?
Authors: Islami S. Yahya
Published: July 2014

In the early twentieth century, Modernists problematised ornament in their refashioning of architecture for the industrial age. Today, architects are formulating different responses to image and its (re)production in the information age. In both discourses of ornament and image, surfaces are often the perpetrators: visual boundaries that facilitate false appearances, imprisoning humanity in a shadowy cave of illusion. The negativity and shallowness associated with superficiality is also closely related to the separation of images from the real, where the former is seen to be a deficient representation of the latter. Such views follow a familiar metaphysical model characterised by the opposition between inside and outside and the opaque boundary that acts as a barrier. This model determines the traditional philosophical approach, which follows a distinct hierarchical order and a perpendicular movement of thought that seeks to penetrate appearances to get to the essence of things.
Architecture and the humanities
Authors: Deckker Thomas
Published: July 2014

This study arose from the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council funded ‘Connected Communities’ project. It was apparent at the outset that the AHRC had not considered that architecture might be important, if not central, to discussions on communities, and it became obvious that this attitude was prevalent throughout the academic and media worlds. Despite evidence that the formal and conceptual structures of architecture permeated numerous disciplines, and that the built environment permeated our personal and social lives, other disciplines in the humanities and social sciences did not think architecture was relevant to the humanities in general.

This belief is represented within the institutional structure of the AHRC itself. The AHRC Joint Electronic Submissions funding application process organises research into a three-tiered system of research areas: there are seventy-eight primary research areas including Visual Arts with twelve subcategories, Dance with five, Drama with six, and Design with six, of which architecture is one. There is no other research classification for the spatial environment, built or unbuilt. On the other hand a search for ‘architecture’ gives six primary research areas, encompassing thirty-six third level subject areas. Except for the architecture subcategory under Design, the others have to do with information, computing and software.
Collective individualities: cultural and political reception in Taiwan's history, architecture and cities
Authors: Lin Francis Chia-Hui
Published: July 2014

Reception is an idea which deals with the reinterpretation of knowledge. Reception therefore appears as an important issue in studies of historiography that see textual forms of history as representations of the past. Reception in history varies from agent to agent: different subjects who hold different ideological positions, in different positions with respect to power relations, receive the same object differently. Public reception, for instance, plays an important role in shaping the spatial representations of architecture and cities, which can be regarded as textual forms of history and therefore as a form of historiography which reinterprets and integrates the facts of the past. The work of Ackbar Abbas, in his depiction of the skyscrapers in Hong Kong which inscribe capitalism in the fabric of that city, offers a remarkable example. He illustrates how Hong Kong's spatial routine plays out in the reception of styles; for example, design oriented towards economy, the phenomenon of constant building and rebuilding, and the pursuit of hyper-density in Hong Kong's built environment. In different time periods, locations and cultural-political contexts, therefore, the public reception of architecture and cities differs. This paper takes Taiwan as an example. It examines a transformational period – from Taiwan's post-Second World War development to the present – scrutinising the reception of its history, architecture and cities.
Applying Fractal Dimension and Image Analysis to Quantify Fibrotic Collagen Deposition and Organization in the Normal and Hypertensive Heart
Authors: Zouein Fouad A. , Kurdi Mazen , Booz George W. , Fuseler John W.
Published: July 2014

Hearts of mice with reduction of function mutation in STAT3 (SA/SA) develop fibrotic collagen foci and reduced systolic function with hypertension. This model was used to determine if fractal dimension and image analysis can provide a quantitative description of myocardial fibrosis using routinely prepared trichome-stained material. Collagen was characterized by relative density [integrated optical density/area (IOD/A)] and fractal dimension (D), an index of complexity. IOD/A of collagen in wild type mice increased with hypertension while D decreased, suggesting tighter collagen packing that could eventually stiffen the myocardium as in diastolic heart failure. Reduced STAT3 function caused modest collagen fibrosis with increased IOD/A and D, indicating more tightly packed, but more disorganized collagen than normotensive and hypertensive controls. Hypertension in SA/SA mice resulted in large regions where myocytes were lost and replaced by fibrotic collagen characterized by decreased density and increased disorder. This indicates that collagen associated with reparative fibrosis in SA/SA hearts experiencing hypertension was highly disorganized and more space filling. Loss of myocytes and their replacement by disordered collagen fibers may further weaken the myocardium leading to systolic heart failure. Our findings highlight the utility of image analysis in revealing importance of a cellular protein for normal and reparative extracellular matrix deposition.
Study of Point Spread in the Aberration-Corrected Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Ge Binghui , Wang Yumei , Chang Yunjie , Yao Yuan
Published: July 2014

High precision determination of atomic position is necessary for quantitative electron microscopy so that small width of peaks, which represent atoms in structural images, adequate resolution, and sufficiently strong image contrast are needed. The width of peak is usually determined by the point spread (PS) of instruments, but the PS of objects should also be taken into consideration in aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy when point resolution of a microscope reaches the sub-angstrom scale, and thus the PS of the instrument is comparable with that of the object. In this article, PS is investigated by studying peak width with variation of atomic number, sample thickness, and spherical aberration coefficients in both negative Cs (NCSI) and positive Cs imaging (PCSI) modes by means of dynamical image simulation. Through comparing the peak width with various atomic number, thickness, and values of spherical aberration, NCSI mode is found to be superior to PCSI considering the smaller width.