bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micropolar Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer over a Nonlinearly Stretching Plate with Viscous Dissipation
Authors: Ahmad Kartini , Ishak Anuar , Nazar Roslinda
Published: June 2013

The flow and heat transfer of a micropolar fluid past a nonlinearly stretching plate is studied numerically, by taking into account the viscous dissipation effect. It is assumed that the plate is stretched nonlinearly from the slot where it is issued. The governing system of partial differential equations is transformed into ordinary differential equations, which are then solved numerically using a finite-difference scheme known as the Keller-box method. The effects of the governing parameters, namely, the material parameterK, the Eckert number Ec, the Prandtl number Pr, and the nonlinear stretching parametern, on the flow field and the heat transfer characteristics are obtained and discussed. The velocity and the temperature profiles are also illustrated to aid the validity of the numerical results obtained. It is found that both the local Nusselt number and the magnitude of the skin friction coefficient increase with the nonlinear stretching parametern, and the opposite trend occurs asKincreases for fixedn.
A Study on Bone Mass in Elderly Chinese Foot-Binding Women
Authors: Pan Yi , Qin Ling , Xu Mian , He Yin , Bao Juan , Guo Xian , Shu Jun
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study is to understand the influences of the social custom of foot binding on female osteoporosis by means of comparing and analyzing the lumbar vertebrae and hip bone mass differences between the foot-binding aged women and unbound women of the same age at Qujing District of Yunnan Province. Of the examined people, 81.37% suffer from osteoporosis on the basis of lumbar vertebra (L1–L4) and femoral neck BMD, of which 82.14% for the foot-binding group and 80.44% for the unbound group. There is no statistical difference for the osteoporosis morbidity of the two groups. Compare the BMD value for various vertebrae, femoral neck, and rehabilitation of the two groups and find the BMD value for the other parts have no statistical difference except the BMD value of L1 centrum, which shows that foot binding does not significantly influence the overall bone mineral density of foot-binding women.
Retrospective Cohort Study of the Prevalence of Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebra in a Wide and Well-Represented Population
Authors: Uçar Demet , Uçar Bekir Yavuz , Coşar Yahya , Emrem Kurtuluş , Gümüşsuyu Gürkan , Mutlu Serhat , Mutlu Burcu , Çaçan Mehmet Akif , Mertsoy Yılmaz , Gümüş Hatice
Published: June 2013

Purpose. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV) in a well-represented general population.
Methods. For a retrospective cohort study, abdominal radiographs of adult subjects were queried with clear visibility of the vertebral body articulation of the last rib, all lumbar transverse processes, and complete sacral wings. Exclusion criteria included any radiologic evidence of previous lumbosacral surgery that would block our view. A total of 6200 abdominal films were reviewed, and 3607 were identified as being suitable for the measurement of the desired parameters. Results. A total of 3607 subjects were identified as eligible for the study, and 683 (18.9%) were classified as positive for a lumbosacral transitional vertebra. The prevalence of sacralization and lumbarization was found as 17.2% and 1.7%, respectively. The average age at the time of the study was 39.5±15.2 years (18–86 years).
Conclusions. As a result of different opinions, LSTV retains its controversial status. Our prevalence study of the general population will provide assistance for resolution of the controversy. Prevalence studies of the general population with a wide participation will shed light on comparative studies.
Fundamentals of the Thermohydrogravidynamic Theory of the Global Seismotectonic Activity of the Earth
Authors: Simonenko Sergey V.
Published: June 2013

The article presents the fundamentals of the cosmic geophysics (representing the deterministic thermohydrogravidynamic theory intended for earthquakes prediction) based on the author's generalized differential formulation of the first law of thermodynamics extending the classical Gibbs' formulation by taking into account (along with the classical infinitesimal change of heatδQand the classical infinitesimal change of the internal energydUτ) the infinitesimal increment of the macroscopic kinetic energydKτ, the infinitesimal increment of the gravitational potential energydπτ, the generalized expression for the infinitesimal workδAnp,∂τdone by the nonpotential terrestrial stress forces (determined by the symmetric stress tensorT) acting on the boundary of the continuum regionτ, and the infinitesimal incrementdGof energy due to the cosmic and terrestrial nonstationary energy gravitational influence on the continuum regionτduring the infinitesimal timedt. Based on the established generalized differential formulation of the first law of thermodynamics, the author explains the founded cosmic energy gravitational genesis of the strong Chinese 2008 and the strong Japanese 2011 earthquakes.
Blowup Phenomena for a Modified Dullin-Gottwald-Holm Shallow Water System
Authors: Zhai Panpan , Guo Zhengguang , Wang Weiming
Published: June 2013

We discuss blowup phenomena for a modified two-component Dullin-Gottwald-Holm shallow water system. In this paper, some new blowup criteria of strong solutions involving the density and suitable integral form of the momentum are established.
Multiscale Erosion Surfaces of the Organic-Rich Barnett Shale, Fort Worth Basin, USA
Authors: Abouelresh Mohamed O.
Published: June 2013

The high frequency and diversity of erosion surfaces throughout the Barnett Shale give a unique view into the short-duration stratigraphic intervals that were previously much more difficult to detect in such fine-grained rocks. The erosion surfaces in Barnett Shale exhibit variable relief (5.08–61 mm) which commonly consists of shelly laminae, shale rip-up clasts, reworked mud intraclasts, phosphatic pellets, and/or diagenetic minerals (dolomite and pyrite) mostly with clay-rich mudstone groundmass. Several factors control this lithological variation, including the energy conditions, rate of relative sea-level fluctuation, rate of sedimentation, sediment influx, and the lithofacies type of the underlying as well as the overlying beds. The erosional features and their associated surfaces make them serve at least in part as boundaries between different genetic types of deposits but with different scales according to their dependence on base level and/or sediment supply. Accordingly, the studied erosion surfaces of the Barnett Shale can be grouped into three different scales of sequence stratigraphic surfaces: sequence-scale surfaces, parasequence-scale surfaces, and within trend-scale surfaces.
Cytogenetic Abnormality in Exfoliated Cells of Buccal Mucosa in Head and Neck Cancer Patients in the Tunisian Population: Impact of Different Exposure Sources
Authors: Khlifi Rim , Trabelsi-Ksibi Fatma , Chakroun Amine , Rebai Ahmed , Hamza-Chaffai Amel
Published: June 2013

Chromosome/DNA instability could be one of the primary causes of malignant cell transformation. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the spontaneous genetic damages in exfoliated cells of buccal mucosa of head and neck cancer (HNC) by counting micronucleus (MN) and binucleated (BN) cells frequencies. MN and BN frequencies were significantly increased in HNC patients compared with controls (5.53 ± 3.09/1000 cells, 5.63 ± 2.99/1000 cells versus 2.36 ± 2.11/1000 cells, 3.09 ± 1.82/1000 cells,P<0.001). Regarding the gender and the age, the frequencies of the MN and BN were significantly higher than those of controls (P<0.01). The evaluation of the MN and BN frequencies revealed a significant increase (P<0.001) in the cases in relation to the control group after controlling the risk factors (tobacco smoking and chewing and occupational exposure) of HNC. Moreover, MN and BN frequencies were significantly increased in smokers and chewers compared with nonsmokers and nonchewers among patients (P<0.05). MN frequency was significantly (P=0.014) different between patients occupationally exposed (6.99 ± 3.40/1000 cells) and nonexposed (4.70 ± 2.48/1000 cells) among HNC group. The logistic regression model illustrated that HNC was significantly associated with frequencies of MN (OR = 8.63,P<0.0001) and BN (OR = 5.62,P=0.001). Our results suggest that increased chromosome/DNA instabilities may be associated with HNC.
Insulating Packaging Solution Based on Cylinder Model
Authors: Qian Jing , Zhao Yanbing
Published: June 2013

Insulating packaging is used in a variety of applications as a thermal protection for temperature-sensitive products. With computer simulation, one spherical shell model and one cylinder model are identified as suitable result for insulating packaging solution. Based on the cylinder model, the insulating packaging solution is achieved by using “minimum packaging cost” as an optimization target. The comparison of results predicted from the present model with benchmark experimental data shows satisfactory agreement in terms of packaging duration.
The Efficacy of Micronutrient-Fortified Sorghum Meal in Improving the Immune Status of HIV-Positive Adults
Authors: Motswagole Boitumelo S. , Mongwaketse Tiyapo C. , Mokotedi Motlalepula , Kobue-Lekalake Rosemary I. , Bulawayo Bernard T. , Thomas Tinku S. , Kurpad Anura V. , Kwape Lemogang D.
Published: June 2013

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are common and compound the effects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in Africa. Nutritional interventions, particularly vitamin A supplementation, may improve immune functioning and delay disease progression. Aim: To investigate the effect of fortified sorghum meal provided for 12 months on the immune status of adults with HIV. Methods: HIV-infected men and women were enrolled in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial in Kanye, Botswana, to receive either sorghum meal fortified with micronutrients including vitamin A (n = 67) or control (n = 65). Serum retinol, iron, zinc, albumin, CD4 cell count and HIV viral load were assessed at baseline and every 3 months. Results: Baseline serum retinol levels were 1.6 µmol/l in both groups and no significant difference was observed at the end of the intervention (control group: 1.5 µmol/l; experimental group: 1.6 µmol/l). In addition, there was no significant difference in the mean (Q1, Q3) CD4 cell count; 348 (220, 456) cells/mm3 for the control group versus 338 (228, 426) cells/mm3 in the experimental group after intervention. Conclusion: In this study, fortified sorghum meal did not influence serum retinol, CD4 cell count and HIV viral load. Future intervention studies should carefully consider the composition and dosing of food supplements needed to improve immune status and delay disease progression.
Preoperative Magnetoencephalographic Sensory Cortex Mapping
Authors: Niranjan Ajay , Laing Erika J.C. , Laghari Fahad J. , Richardson R. Mark , Lunsford L. Dade
Published: June 2013

The use of functional neuroimaging holds the promise of improving neurosurgical outcomes by providing preoperative localization of critical brain functions. The brain representation of somatosensory function can be effectively localized using magnetoencephalography (MEG) in both normal subjects and in patients with tumors, vascular malformation, and epilepsy. This study investigates the pattern of somatosensory localization in 45 patients. Thirty-two of these patients underwent subsequent resective surgery for brain pathologies. Electrical stimulation of the median nerve was conducted, and the most prominent somatosensory peak in the resultant averaged data was localized using the single equivalent current dipole technique. Results showed that this peak localized either to the central or postcentral sulcus of the somatosensory cortex. We found that neither age nor the presence of brain pathologies had significant effect on the recognition of the somatosensory cortex. Patients who underwent surgery after presurgical planning using MEG suffered no new somatosensory deficits, indicating the valuable role of pre-surgical mapping using MEG in the surgical planning.
The Blue Globular Pattern in Dermoscopy
Authors: Roberti V. , Devirgiliis V. , Curzio M. , Gobbi S. , Coppola R. , Calvieri S. , Panasiti V.
Published: June 2013

Background: Seborrheic keratosis (SK) is a frequent benign epithelial skin tumor. Generally its diagnosis is clinical, however SK can sometimes clinically simulate a melanocytic lesion; therefore we need dermoscopy to reach a correct diagnosis. Milia-like cysts and comedo-like openings are the common dermoscopic features of SK, but it is not a rare finding that SK can display one or more dermoscopic patterns suggestive of a melanocytic origin. Objectives: We describe a case series of SKs with a blue globular pattern simulating a melanocytic lesion. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 224 SKs seen during 2011 at the Dermatoscopy Unit of the Department of Dermatology, University of Rome ‘Sapienza'. Results: Five SKs showed a blue globular pattern, without the SK main features generally seen in dermoscopy; globules were multiple, round or oval, well-demarcated, small and medium-sized, blue-colored and equally distributed within the lesion. Histopathologic examination was consistent with acanthotic SK. Conclusions: Identification of the blue globular pattern can be helpful for the dermoscopic diagnosis of SK, especially when its common dermoscopic features are absent.
Dermoscopy of Necrobiosis Lipoidica and Granuloma Annulare
Authors: Pellicano Riccardo , Caldarola Giacomo , Filabozzi Paola , Zalaudek Iris
Published: June 2013

Background: Dermoscopy is traditionally used for the diagnosis of skin tumors, but it has also gained increasing interest as an adjunct in the clinical diagnosis of inflammatory skin diseases. Objective: To evaluate the dermoscopic patterns of necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) and granuloma annulare (GA) and to compare these findings with other granulomatous skin disorders. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of patient data and clinical and dermoscopic images of histopathologically diagnosed cases of NL and GA. Results: A total of 24 cases, including 12 cases of NL and 12 cases of GA, were evaluated. In all cases of NL, dermoscopy revealed evident, sharply focused, elongated and serpentine telangiectasias, which were typically located over a whitish, structureless background. In contrast, all cases of GA were dermoscopically typified by peripheral, structureless orange-reddish borders, which were associated in 5 cases with isolated, unfocussed small vessels. Conclusion: Our study suggests that NL and GA reveal different dermoscopic patterns, which may aid the correct diagnosis. In addition, the dermoscopic patterns of NL and GA appear to differ from other forms of granulomatous diseases.
Racial/Ethnic and Regional Differences in the Prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in the United States
Authors: Wang Yize R. , Loftus Jr. Edward V. , Cangemi John R. , Picco Michael F.
Published: June 2013

Background: The magnitude of racial/ethnic and regional differences in the prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the United States remains largely unknown. Aims: To estimate differences in the prevalence of IBD by race/ethnicity and region. Methods: The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, a nationally representative survey of US households and medical conditions, was used. A multivariate logistic model was used in statistical analysis. Results: Among 202,468 individuals surveyed during 1996-2007, 316 were diagnosed with IBD (26 Blacks, 21 Hispanics, and 5 Asians). The prevalence of IBD was higher in Whites [Crohn's disease: 154; ulcerative colitis (UC): 89] than Blacks (Crohn's disease: 68; UC: 25), Hispanics (Crohn's disease: 15; UC: 35), and Asians (Crohn's: 45; UC: 40) (all p < 0.05, except for UC in Asians). The differences in Crohn's disease between Whites and minorities and the difference in UC between Whites and Blacks remained significant in multivariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, there was no regional difference in the prevalence of Crohn's disease, but the prevalence of UC was higher in the Northeast than the South (p < 0.05). Conclusions: There were significant racial/ethnic differences in the prevalence of IBD in the USA. The underlying etiology of these differences warrants additional research.
Trigeminal Neuralgia Associated with Cerebellopontine Angle Lipoma in Childhood
Authors: Egemen Emrah , Börcek Alp Özgün , Karaaslan Burak , Baykaner Mustafa Kemali
Published: June 2013

Cerebellopontine angle lipomas are rare and more rarely associated with trigeminal neuralgia especially in childhood. Medical treatment provides relief from the pain; however, the effect may not be permanent. Surgical treatment is associated with a high morbidity rate; therefore, surgery should be considered only in intractable cases. In this article we describe the clinical course and radiological features of a 6-year-old girl with a cerebellopontine angle lipoma who presented with a 4-year history of left-side trigeminal neuralgia, especially in the mandibular area. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an extra-axial fatty mass at the level of the ‘dorsal-entry zone' of the trigeminal nerve. The pain improved with carbamazepine therapy.
CIRS und Global Trigger Tools in der Chirurgie und Endoskopie
Authors: Glitsch Anne , Schreiber André
Published: June 2013

Hintergrund: Die Erhöhung der Patientensicherheit ist nicht nur ein ureigenes Interesse der medizinischen Leistungserbringer, sondern rückt zunehmend auch in den Fokus der Öffentlichkeit. Laut der Publikation «To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System» werden in den Vereinigten Staaten jährlich zwischen 44 000 und 98 000 Patienten aufgrund eines Irrtums im Dienstleistungssektor Krankenversorgung geschädigt. Die Wahrscheinlichkeit, dass einem stationär versorgten Patienten durch eine medizinische Handlung Schaden zugefügt wird, liegt bei mindestens 3% aller Patienten. Methode: In dieser Arbeit soll gezeigt werden, wie durch die Etablierung bestimmter Aspekte eines Risikomanagementsystems Fehler und Prozessabläufe analysiert werden können. Durch die Analyse der Prozessabläufe, die einen Zwischenfall (Critical Incident) zur Folge hatten, kann die Patientensicherheit erhöht werden. Das «Global Trigger Tool»-System ist ein Instrument, um retrospektiv mögliche Patientenschäden aufzudecken. Ergebnisse und Schlussfolgerungen: Durch die Einführung eines datenbankgestützten «Critical Incident Reporting»-Systems (CIRS) und die Auswertung verschiedener Triggertools wurde es möglich, fehlerhafte Prozesse und Störgrößen zu detektieren, zu beseitigen und damit die Patientensicherheit zu erhöhen.
Three new species of Euphorbia subg. Chamaesyce (Euphorbiaceae) from Bolivia
Authors: STEINMANN VICTOR W.
Published: June 2013

Three new Bolivian species of Euphorbia subg. Chamaesyce are described and illustrated. Euphorbia beckii is known from the Área Natural de Manejo Integrado of Apolobamba, province of Bautista Saavedra, department of La Paz; it belongs to sect. Alectoroctonum and is compared with E. viridis. Euphorbia fuentesii is known from the Kaa-Iya del Gran Chaco National Park, Cordillera province, department of Santa Cruz. It forms part of sect. Anisophyllum, and is most similar to E. catamarcensis. Euphorbia riinae is known from the Parque Nacional Noel Kempff Mercado, in the province of Velasco, department of Santa Cruz. It is a member of sect. Crossadenia subsect. Ephedropeplus and is closely related to the Brazilian Euphorbia gymnoclada.
Glyptothorax igniculus, a new species of sisorid catfish (Teleostei: Siluriformes) from Myanmar
Authors: NG HEOK HEE , KULLANDER SVEN O.
Published: June 2013

Glyptothorax igniculus, new species, is described from the Chindwin River system (part of the Irrawaddy River drainage) in northwestern Myanmar. It differs from other species of Glyptothorax in the Irrawaddy drainage except G. burmanicus in having a thoracic adhesive apparatus with a lanceolate central depression that is nearly enclosed posteriorly by skin ridges, vs. having an adhestive apparatus that is open caudally. In G. burmanicus the adhesive apparatus is oval in outline and completely closed. Glyptothorax chindwinicus Vishwanath & Linthoingambi, 2007 is shown to be a junior synonym of G. burmanicus Prashad & Mukerji, 1929. Glyptothorax rugimentum is reported for the first time from the Chindwin drainage.
Multimodel Detection and Attribution of Extreme Temperature Changes
Authors: Min Seung-Ki , Zhang Xuebin , Zwiers Francis , Shiogama Hideo , Tung Yu-Shiang , Wehner Michael
Published: June 2013

Recent studies have detected anthropogenic influences due to increases in greenhouse gases on extreme temperature changes during the latter half of the twentieth century at global and regional scales. Most of the studies, however, were based on a limited number of climate models and also separation of anthropogenic influence from natural factors due to changes in solar and volcanic activities remains challenging at regional scales. Here, the authors conduct optimal fingerprinting analyses using 12 climate models integrated under anthropogenic-only forcing or natural plus anthropogenic forcing. The authors compare observed and simulated changes in annual extreme temperature indices of coldest night and day (TNn and TXn) and warmest night and day (TNx and TXx) from 1951 to 2000. Spatial domains from global mean to continental and subcontinental regions are considered and standardization of indices is employed for better intercomparisons between regions and indices. The anthropogenic signal is detected in global and northern continental means of all four indices, albeit less robustly for TXx, which is consistent with previous findings. The detected anthropogenic signals are also found to be separable from natural forcing influence at the global scale and to a lesser extent at continental and subcontinental scales. Detection occurs more frequently in TNx and TNn than in other indices, particularly at smaller scales, supporting previous studies based on different methods. A combined detection analysis of daytime and nighttime temperature extremes suggests potential applicability to a multivariable assessment.
Transforming Memory: Re-membering Eucharist
Authors: Shoop Marcia Mount , McClintock-Fulkerson Mary
Published: June 2013

This article explores the gap between eucharistic narratives, common eucharistic practices and the racially segregated realities of mainline Christianity. Using the wisdom of trauma theory to excavate the dismembered Body of Christ that gathers for Communion in most American churches, the authors seek to re-member Eucharist with new embodied “postures and gestures” of transformation and redemption. Close attention to both the destructive force of the “colorblind” narrative that many churches adopt and the need to embrace a more honest narrative about whiteness inform the character of these transformative postures and gestures.
Expanding extrapleural hematoma from rib fractures after cardiac surgery
Authors: Agrifoglio Marco , Zoli Stefano , Gennari Marco , Annoni Andrea , Polvani Gianluca
Published: June 2013

A 79-year-old man underwent coronary artery bypass grafting and ascending aorta prosthetic replacement for aneurysm at our Institution. His postoperative course was characterized by rapid onset of hypotension and anemia. Re-exploration found no surgical source of bleeding. A chest computed tomography showed a huge extrapleural hematoma caused by rib fractures. Percutaneous chest drainage was effective, and the patient recovered quickly. Follow-up computed tomography confirmed a good result.
Low expression of N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma correlates with a poor prognosis
Authors: Cao Wei , Yu Guozheng , Lu Qiang , Zhang Juliang
Published: June 2013

Background

It is currently unclear whether a correlation exists between N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) expression and oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The aim of this study was to examine the underlying clinical significance of NDRG2 expression in ESCC patients and to investigate the effects of NDRG2 up-regulation on ESCC cell growth in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the level of NDRG2 expressions in ESCC tissue, which was then compared to specific clinicopathological features in the patient and tissue specimens. Factors associated with patient survival were analysed. Moreover, the effects of up-regulating NDRG2 expression on the growth of an ESCC cell line were examined by MTT, colony formation, DNA replication activity and nude mouse model assays.

Results

Notably low expression of NDRG2 in ESCC patients was inversely associated with clinical stage, NM classification, histological differentiation and patients’ vital status (all P < 0.05). ESCC patients expressing high levels of NDRG2 exhibited a substantially higher 5-year overall survival rate than NDRG2-negative patients. Furthermore, NDRG2 over-expression reduced the proliferation, colony formation and DNA replication activity in ESCC cells, as well as inhibiting the growth of ESCC cells in vivo.

Conclusion

The present experiments demonstrated that NDRG2 may be a diagnostic and prognostic marker in patients with ESCC, and up-regulation of NDRG2 might act as a promising therapeutic strategy for aggressive ESCC.
Assessment of primary health care received by the elderly and health related quality of life: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Honorato dos Santos de Carvalho Vivian C , Rossato Sinara L , Fuchs Flávio D , Harzheim Erno , Fuchs Sandra C
Published: June 2013

Background

Population aging leads to increased burden of chronic diseases and demand in public health. This study aimed to assess whether the score of Primary Health Care (PHC) is associated with a) the model of care - Family Health Strategy (FHS)vs. traditional care model (the Basic Health Units; BHU); b) morbid conditions such as - hypertension, diabetes mellitus, mental disorders, chronic pain, obesity and central obesity; c) quality of life in elderly individuals who received care in those units.

Methods

A survey was conducted among the elderly between August 2010 and August 2011, in Ilheus, Bahia. We interviewed elderly patients - 60 years or older - who consulted at BHU or FHS units in that day or participated in a group activity, and those who were visited at home by the staff of PHC, selected through a random sample. Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, services’ attainment of primary care attributes, health problems and quality of life were investigated. The Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) was used to assess quality of life and PCATool to generate PHC scores. In addition, weight, height and waist circumference were measured. Trained research assistants, under supervision performed the data collection.

Results

A total of 511 elderly individuals were identified, two declined to participate, resulting in 509 individuals interviewed. The health care provided by the FHS has higher attainment of PHC attributes, in comparison to the BHU, resulting in lower prevalence of score below six. Except for hypertension and cardiovascular disease, other chronic problems were not independently associated with low scores in PHC. It was observed an independent and positive association between PHC score and the mental component of quality of life and an inverse association with the physical component.

Conclusions

This study showed higher PHC attributes attainment in units with FHS, regardless of the health problem. The degree of orientation to PHC increased the mental component score of quality of life.
Ethnobotany of Heracleum persicum Desf. ex Fisch., an invasive species in Norway, or how plant names, uses, and other traditions evolve
Authors: Alm Torbjørn
Published: June 2013

Background

Heracleum persicumwas introduced to Norway as an ornamental in the 1830′s. Towards the end of the 19th century, it started spreading outside gardens, later to become a frequent sight in the major towns and settlements of North Norway – and a veritable pest plant. During the last 100 years or so, a substantial ethnobotanical tradition related to the species has evolved, demonstrating that folk knowledge is not only forgotten and lost, but also charting new terrain.

Methods

This survey is based on data extracted from all relevant publications, including botanical literature, travel accounts, newspaper notes, etc., as far as they have come to my attention. In addition, information on vernacular names and various uses of theH.persicumin Norway has been extracted from my own, substantial archive of interviews, questionnaires, and correspondence related to the ethnobotany of Norway.

Results

Where extant,H.persicumtends to be known to everyone, even by city dwellers who otherwise generally neglect plants. People tend to love or hate it, and in Tromsø, the largest town of northern Norway, the species has become more or less emblematic of the city. Both here and in other areas of northern Norway, it is referred to by a variety of vernacular names, partly borrowed from other species, partly derived from the Latin genus name, and partly coined for this species only. In the latter group,tromsøpalme(‘the palm of Tromsø’) has proved by far the most popular invention. It was seemingly first used (and coined) by German soldiers during the World War II occupation of Norway, but now largely replaces other vernacular names. The plant is still popular with children, who frequently play in and with it, whereas adults have been more prone to speculate on its origins – and how to get rid of it. Salt is the most popular “herbicide” for this purpose.

Conclusions

Over the years,H.persicumhas accumulated at least twenty different vernacular names in Norway, and a variety of other traditions. By necessity, all these traditions are less than 180 years old, showing that even modern and urban societies may produce a substantial body of plant lore, which certainly merits ethnobotanical attention.
The preservation of bidirectional promoter architecture in eukaryotes: what is the driving force?
Authors: Xu Chao , Chen Jiajia , Shen Bairong
Published: June 2013

Background

The bidirectional gene architecture has been studied in many organisms, and the conservation of bidirectional arrangement has received considerable attention. However, the explanation for the evolutionary conservation about this genomic structure is still insufficient. In this study the large scale identification and pathway enrichment analysis for bidirectional genes were performed in several eukaryotes and the comparative analysis of this arrangement between human and mouse were dissected for the purpose of discovering the driving force of the preservation of this genomic structure.

Results

We identified the bidirectional gene pairs in eight different species and found this structure to be prevalent in eukaryotes. The pathway enrichment analysis indicated the bidirectional genes at the genome level are conserved in certain pathways, such as the DNA repair and some other fundamental cellular pathways. The comparative analysis about the gene expression, function, between human and mouse bidirectional genes were also performed and we observed that the selective force of this architecture doesn't derive from the co-regulation between paired genes, but the functional bias of bidirectional genes at whole genome level is observed strengthened during evolution.

Conclusions

Our result validated the coexpression of bidirectional genes; however failed to support their functional relevance. The conservation of bidirectional promoters seems not the result of functional connection between paired genes, but the functional bias at whole genome level, which imply that the genome-wide functional constraint is important for the conservation of bidirectional structure.
An improved dimensionality reduction method for meta-transcriptome indexing based diseases classification
Authors: Wang Yin , Zhou Yuhua , Li Yixue , Ling Zongxin , Zhu Yan , Guo Xiaokui , Sun Hong
Published: June 2013

Background

Bacterial 16S Ribosomal RNAs profiling have been widely used in the classification of microbiota associated diseases. Dimensionality reduction is among the keys in mining high-dimensional 16S rRNAs' expression data. High levels of sparsity and redundancy are common in 16S rRNA gene microbial surveys. Traditional feature selection methods are generally restricted to measuring correlated abundances, and are limited in discrimination when so few microbes are actually shared across communities.

Results

Here we present a Feature Merging and Selection algorithm (FMS) to deal with 16S rRNAs' expression data. By integrating Linear Discriminant Analysis method, FMS can reduce the feature dimension with higher accuracy and preserve the relationship between different features as well. Two 16S rRNAs' expression datasets of pneumonia and dental decay patients were used to test the validity of the algorithm. Combined with SVM, FMS discriminated different classes of both pneumonia and dental caries better than other popular feature selection methods.

Conclusions

FMS projects data into lower dimension with preservation of enough features, and thus improve the intelligibility of the result. The results showed that FMS is a more valid and reliable methods in feature reduction.
Quality assessment on Polygoni Multiflori Caulis using HPLC/UV/MS combined with principle component analysis
Authors: Zhao Yang , Kao Chun-Pin , Chang Yuan-Shiun , Ho Yu-Ling
Published: June 2013

Background

Polygoni Multiflori Caulis, the dried caulis of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb., is one of the commonly used traditional Chinese medicines having antioxidant, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Polygoni Multiflori Caulis used clinically or circulated on market have great differences in their diameters. However, to the best of our knowledge, no study has been reported on the qualities of Polygoni Multiflori Caulis with different diameters.

Results

Systematic HPLC/UV/MS chromatographic fingerprinting and quantitative analytical methods combined with principal component analysis were developed and applied to analyze different Polygoni Multiflori Caulis samples. The contents of 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside, the chemical marker for quality control on Polygoni Multiflori Caulis specified in Chinese Pharmacopoeia (2010 edition), were found to have surprising relevance with the samples’ diameters for the first time.

Conclusion

The finding provides a scientific basis for collecting Polygoni Multiflori Caulis in the best time. Moreover, the diameter can be used as the criterion for quality control on Polygoni Multiflori Caulis as a preliminary step in the future. In addition, scores plot obtained from principal component analysis shows the obvious differences between unqualified Polygoni Multiflori Caulis samples and qualified ones visually, which can be used to single out the unqualified ones with qualified ones efficiently and immediately.
Performance of breast cancer screening methods and modality among Chinese women: a report from a society-based breast screening program (SBSP) in Shanghai
Authors: Mo Miao , Liu Guang-yu , Zheng Ying , Di Lian-fang , Ji Ya-jie , Lv Li-lang , Chen Ying-yao , Peng Wei-jun , Zhu Jie-ru , Bao Ping-ping , Ding Jian-hui , Chang Cai , Luo Jian-feng , Cao Zhi-gang , Xu Wang-hong , Shao Zhi-min
Published: June 2013

To evaluate the screening performance of individual and combined use of clinical breast examination, ultrasonography and mammography in Chinese women, we conducted a biennial breast cancer screening program among 14,464 women aged 35 to 74 years old who lived in Qibao County, Minhang district of Shanghai, China, between May 2008 and Sept 2012. All participants were submitted to clinical breast examination, and then women with positive results and all women at age of 45-69 years old were preformed breast ultrasonography and mammography. The examination results were compared against pathological findings as the gold standard of reference. A total of 66 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in the two rounds of the screening, yielding an incident rate of 194 per 100,000 person-years. The sensitivity of clinical breast examination, ultrasonography and mammography alone were 61.4%, 53.7% and 67.3%, respectively. While mammography performed better in elder age groups and hormone receptor positive disease groups, ultrasonography had a higher sensitivity in younger age group and did not differ in sensitivity by estrogen receptor or progesterone receptor status. Combined use of the two imaging examinations increased the sensitivity in almost all age groups, but had a higher sensitivity in hormone receptor positive cancers than in those negative. Our results suggest that the Qibao modality is an effective strategy for breast cancer screening among Chinese women, especially for early detection of elder and hormone receptor positive breast cancer.
Shot-profile true amplitude crosscorrelation imaging condition
Authors: Arntsen B. , Kritski A. , Ursin B. , Amundsen L.
Published: June 2013

The U/D imaging condition for shot profile migration can be used to estimate the angle dependent reflection coefficient, but is difficult to implement numerically because of the spectral division involved. Most techniques for stabilizing the division require a damping factor which might be difficult to estimate and which also introduces bias into the final result. A stable result can be achieved by approximating the imaging condition with a crosscorrelation of the up- and downgoing wavefields at zero time lag, but this will lead to incorrect amplitude-versus-angle (AVA) behavior of the estimated reflection coefficient. We use a simple model for wave propagation of primary reflections in the wavenumber frequency domain and invert the model with respect to the reflection coefficient. By using the properties of wavefield extrapolators it can then be shown that the reflection coefficients can be estimated by crosscorrelation of the upgoing wavefield and a downgoing wavefield where the initial wavefield is the inverse of the wavefield generated by a point source. The new imaging condition gives the correct AVA behavior for horizontal reflectors. For dipping reflectors it is shown that a postmigration correction factor can be used to recover the correct angle behavior of the reflection coefficient. The new imaging condition is numerically stable, does not involve damping factors, is simple to implement numerically, and is a simple modification of the classical crosscorrelation imaging condition. Numerical examples confirm the correct AVA behavior of the new imaging condition.
Least-squares reverse time migration of marine data with frequency-selection encoding
Authors: Dai Wei , Huang Yunsong , Schuster Gerard T.
Published: June 2013

The phase-encoding technique can sometimes increase the efficiency of the least-squares reverse time migration (LSRTM) by more than one order of magnitude. However, traditional random encoding functions require all the encoded shots to share the same receiver locations, thus limiting the usage to seismic surveys with a fixed spread geometry. We implement a frequency-selection encoding strategy that accommodates data with a marine streamer geometry. The encoding functions are delta functions in the frequency domain, so that all the encoded shots have unique nonoverlapping frequency content, and the receivers can distinguish the wavefield from each shot with a unique frequency band. Because the encoding functions are orthogonal to each other, there will be no crosstalk between different shots during modeling and migration. With the frequency-selection encoding method, the computational efficiency of LSRTM is increased so that its cost is comparable to conventional RTM for the Marmousi2 model and a marine data set recorded in the Gulf of Mexico. With more iterations, the LSRTM image quality is further improved by suppressing migration artifacts, balancing reflector amplitudes, and enhancing the spatial resolution. We conclude that LSRTM with frequency-selection is an efficient migration method that can sometimes produce more focused images than conventional RTM.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT WITH THE CONCEPT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Аньшин  , Anshin Valeriy
Published: June 2013

The article discusses the issues of sustainable development. The implementation of the sustainable development concept involves the integration of different levels of government and bringing the approach to the level of business and individual projects. A company may have a different degree of economic stability, the measurement of which can be accomplished through the analysis of the cost structure of the product sold, including the costs of maintaining the environment. Evaluation of the project can be carried out taking into account the levels of initiation and levels of its impact on sustainable development. We propose a method of evaluation that allows taking into account all three aspects: economic, social and environmental. In the process of assessing the sustainability of the project it is advisable to take into account the full life cycle. The article shows how to take into account the parameters that characterize the activity and the product produced by the asset. By themselves, the project or the circumstances of its implementation could result in your loss of stability of the system in which it is located. It is recommended to evaluate the loss of stability in private terms, and as a whole for the project — based on the calculation of the integral indicator.
Democracy in the museum. The foundation and permanent exhibition of the Museo Adolfo Suárez y la Transición
Authors: Sehrt Jurek , Reckling Tobias
Published: June 2013

This article examines the recently founded Museo Adolfo Suárez y la Transición – the first Spanish museum dedicated to the Transition to Democracy. Through considering museums as important institutions for the formation of national identities, the article explores the foundation of the museum and its current permanent exhibition in the context of competing narratives of contemporary Spanish history. In doing so, it will be argued that in the context of this museum, the Spanish Transition, as the founding myth for the democratic Spanish nation, also serves to silence the more problematic Spanish history of the twentieth century.
Optical characteristics of injection-molded fluorene polymers
Authors: Kato Mariko , Ito Hiroshi
Published: June 2013

Digital cameras are small, but they must be able to take images with numerous pixels. To use few lenses in devices, aspheric lenses have been used. Fluorene-based polymers (FBPs) have a high refractive index and low birefringence. Because optical lenses must be manufactured as designed with low optical retardation, FBP optical lenses are widely used. This study assessed optical and flow characteristics of polycarbonate (PC) and two kinds of FBP. Molded specimen characteristics of PC and two FBPs revealed these properties of the FBPs. The results show that the unique structure of FBPs eliminated birefringence, because of the cardo structure part, including the fluorene ring. Differences in optical properties are attributable to structural differences of the part which is polymerized with the fluorene structure (the X part). The temperature dependence of FBPs in the flow characteristics and optical properties was smaller than that of PC; the slight temperature dependence is particularly obvious above the glass transition temperature (Tg). The benzene ring content of FBP affects the resin optical and physical properties. The influence of the difference between the fluorene polyester structure and the PC structure was greater than that of the benzene ring content in the X part, in the molecular structure of FBP.
Women’s Perceptions of Contributory Factors for Not Achieving a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC)
Authors: Kelly Georgina , Hauck Yvonne L. , Bayes Sara , Hardwick Tasmin
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND:With cesarean rates around the world escalating, concern is growing around why women wanting a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) are not achieving their goal.

AIM:To gain an understanding of women’s perceptions of factors they felt contributed to not achieving a VBAC.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS:Fifteen women were interviewed following a nonelective repeat cesarean section (NERCS). They had attended a Western Australian midwifery-led service, next birth after cesarean (NBAC), and labored but were not successful in achieving a VBAC because of reasons around delayed progress. Interview transcripts were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method of thematic analysis.

FINDINGS:Five themes emerged: “Tentative commitment with lingering doubts,” “My body failed me,” “Compromised by a longer than tolerable labor,” “Unable to effectively self-advocate in a climate of power struggling and poor support,” and “The inflexibility of hospital processes.” The final theme included two subthemes: “Restrictive policies” on labor and use of the cardiotocography, “The CTG.”

CONCLUSIONS:When labor did not progress as envisaged and hospital processes adversely affected how women were supported, women’s doubts around being able to achieve a VBAC were reinforced with a NERCS. Maternity services need to ensure clinical practice reflects best evidence while assuring staff are supportive of women’s choice.
Holistic Pregnancy Care: Aligning Complementary and Alternative Medicine With Midwifery Practice
Authors: Hall Helen G. , Griffiths Debra L. , McKenna Lisa G.
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND:The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to manage pregnancy-related conditions is becoming increasingly popular. This article draws on a qualitative study that aimed to explain the processes midwives engaged when determining the role of these therapies for pregnancy care.

METHODOLOGY:Our study used grounded theory methodology. Twenty-five midwives, who were employed in metropolitan hospitals situated in Victoria, Australia, participated in the study. Data was collected from semistructured interviews and nonparticipant observation of a subgroup over an 18-month period.

RESULTS:Midwives’ attitudes and behavior toward the CAM was influenced by their professional ideology and knowledge. When participants considered the role of these therapies, they employed various strategies including aligning CAM with midwifery philosophy, using the therapies to increase women’s options, valuing diverse ways of understanding and seeking out professional knowledge.

CONCLUSIONS:Although midwives do not reject conventional medicine, many value the opportunity CAM offers to individualize care and promote natural childbearing.
Nitride‐Coated Titanium Mesh and Particulate Allograft for Vertical Ridge Augmentation
Authors: Chan Hsun‐Liang , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: June 2013

Introduction: Titanium mesh (Ti‐mesh) has been used as a space‐making material in vertical ridge augmentation (VRA). Difficulties in handling this material remain a major obstacle for its routine use. This case report describes the clinical efficacy of Ti‐mesh with a modified surface for VRA.

Case Presentation: A 65‐year‐old Asian male presented requiring VRA in the posterior mandible for the placement of standard‐sized implants (≥10 mm). The area was treated with Ti‐mesh and allograft particulates. The Ti‐mesh used has a small pore size (300 μm), which is capable of containing bone grafts, and titanium nitride coating, which allows for easier mesh retrieval. The healing was uneventful. Six months after the surgery, a mean of 4.0‐mm ridge height gain was obtained. Three standard‐sized implants (3.8 × 10.5 and 4.6 × 10.5 mm) were placed in the augmented region.

Conclusions: This case report demonstrates that the newly designed Ti‐mesh applied in this case report, in combination with allografts, is effective in increasing ridge height in the posterior mandible. The amount of vertical bone gain is comparable with the published data in the literature using other types of barrier membranes, including titanium‐reinforced membrane.