bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence of hepatitis C, hepatitis B virus and syphilis in HIV-1 infected patients in Shandong, China
Authors: Zhao YS , Su SL , Lv CX , Zhang XF , Lin L , Sun XG , Lin B , Fu JH
Published: October 2012

To determine the seroprevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and syphilis in HIV-1-infected patients and related risk factors in Shandong province, China, we tested all eligible participants between 2000 and 2010 for the presence of anti-HCV antibody, hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and non-treponemal antibodies for syphilis after informed consent. Among 2087 HIV-infected patients, anti-HCV antibody was present in 41.2%, HBsAg in 12.6% and rapid plasma reagin (RPR) reactivity in 19.6%. In the multivariate logistic regression model, male gender (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.41), minority ethnicity (aOR = 1.72), syphilis infection (aOR = 1.40), former paid blood donors (aOR = 3.36), blood transfusion recipients (aOR = 2.91) and injection drug users (aOR = 1.98) were significantly associated with HCV infection. HCV infection (aOR = 1.40) and being men who have sex with men (aOR = 2.38) were significantly associated with syphilis infection. Co-infection with HCV, HBV and syphilis was observed frequently in all described subgroups of HIV infection. The results of this study suggest that it is necessary to screen for these viruses and syphilis in all Chinese HIV-infected patients.
Rapid HIV testing using Determine™ HIV 1/2 antibody tests: is there a difference between the visual appearance of true- and false-positive tests?
Authors: Sacks R , Omodele-Lucien A , Whitbread N , Muir D , Smith A
Published: October 2012

HIV point-of-care tests (POCTs) give occasional false positive results, causing unnecessary patient anxiety. We aimed to elicit whether false- and true-positive POCTs differed visually. Seventeen false- and 17 true-positive serum samples were randomized into pairs, comprising one false- and one true-positive sample. Two independent readers identified each POCT as negative or positive and compared line strength between pairs. Six further readers graded line strength, 0-5, from POCT photographs. All true-positive samples were identified positive and 8/17 false-positive samples negative, on repeat testing of stored sera. Eight out of the 9 remaining false-positive tests were described as having weaker pigment uptake than their paired true-positive POCT. Mean grade of line strength was 4.2 in true- and 0.9 in false-positive samples, on photographic evaluation. These results suggest false-positive POCTs may differ visually from true-positive POCTs. If larger studies confirm these findings, we may be able to alleviate anxiety in low risk patients with faintly positive POCTs awaiting their confirmatory laboratory result, where the possibility of a false-positive result could be emphasized.
What do HIV-positive patients in Plymouth think about sharing details of their HIV status with other health-care workers?
Authors: Warwick Z , Lillicrap R
Published: October 2012

We carried out a prospective structured interview with 71% of the HIV cohort in Plymouth to establish patients’ views on recording HIV status and details of HIV care in routine hospital and primary care notes. Forty-nine percent of patients did not want their HIV status routinely documented in hospital notes and 57% did not want hospital staff to have access to results of sexual health screens (SHSs). In light of these results, we plan to offer patients the option to opt out of using hospital notes for documentation of their HIV care and will be providing SHSs under a separate genitourinary medicine (GU) patient number.
Long-term neurological follow-up of HIV-positive patients diagnosed with syphilis
Authors: Muldoon E G , Mooka B , Reidy D , O'Dea S , Clarke S , Courtney G , Lyons F , Bergin C , Mulcahy F
Published: October 2012

No cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) abnormalities are found in HIV-positive patients in long-term follow-up after standard syphilis treatment. Syphilis has been reported to have immunological effects on HIV infection and HIV is known to modulate both the manifestations of syphilis and the serological response to therapy. HIV-positive patients who had been diagnosed with and treated for syphilis prior to 2007 were identified. Patients were consented for lumbar puncture. Serum HIV viral load, CD4 count and CSF were recorded. Thirty-five patients with previously diagnosed and treated syphilis underwent lumbar puncture. Thirty-four patients had a normal neurological exam. Only one patient had an abnormal mean white cell count (10.7 cells per high-power field). The finding that those with previously diagnosed syphilis had normal CSF and clinical findings is reassuring and supports the practice of using standard syphilis therapy in HIV-positive patients.
Fat future for firefighters? Changes in prevalence of obesity in Scottish local authority firefighters
Authors: Ide C W
Published: October 2012

There has been a dramatic increase in adult obesity in the Scotland during the past two decades, but little research has been undertaken into populations defined specifically by occupation. The aim of this study was to examine changes in the prevalence of obesity in a group of local authority firefighters arising early in their careers, between enlistment and initial examination for a large goods vehicle (LGV) licence. The body mass index (BMI) from initial LGV medical examinations of firefighters during a 30-month period up to the end of September 2005 was compared with that at enlistment. Enlistment and LGV BMI data were available for 114 firefighters, all men. Of 114, 77 (68%) of LGV examinations took place within five years of enlistment. None were obese (BMI ≥30) at enlistment, but by LGV medical the BMI of 88 (84%) had increased, and nine (8%) were obese. Assuming uniform accrual, BMI increased annually at rates varying between 0.06% and 2.25% (mean, 0.56; standard deviation [SD], 0.42). For the nine obese, this was 0.29-2.25% (mean, 1.06; SD, 0.61). In a population for which fitness is an essential selection criterion, the implied decline of fitness as measured by rising BMI in a short period should be cause for concern.
Preoperative assessment in the elderly: evaluation of a new clinical service
Authors: Ellis G , Spiers M , Coutts S , Fairburn P , Mccracken L
Published: October 2012

Older people represent the fastest growing sector of society and a growing proportion of those undergoing elective surgery. Older people are at the highest risk of increased length of stay and postoperative complications. We evaluated the development of a nurse-led multidimensional preoperative assessment for older people. An older people's preassessment nurse reviewed consecutive patients undergoing elective surgery who met the inclusion criteria. In the first five months control phase, assessment was not acted on. Following the intervention, patients were referred to appropriate specialties for input. A total of 141 patients were reviewed before and 172 patients reviewed after the introduction of the pilot. Length of stay was reduced from 8.9 to 4.9 days after the introduction of the pilot ( P < 0.001). Delays were reduced from 9.9% to 2.3% ( P = 0.004) and fewer procedures were cancelled at pre-assessment (17.7% before, 5.2% after; P < 0.001). Serious postoperative complications were reduced from 8.5% to 2.3% ( P = 0.01). Coordinated multidisciplinary preoperative assessment in the elderly may reduce complications and length of stay.
Simulations of Three-Dimensional Vertical-Axis Turbines for Communications Applications
Authors: Plourde B. D. , Abraham J.P. , Mowry G.S. , Minkowycz W.J.
Published: October 2012

A numerical simulation has been performed to assist in evaluating vertical-axis Savonius-style wind turbines. The simulation was fully three-dimensional and unsteady. Through the simulation, it was possible to assess the performance of a wind turbine that possessed novel features such as wing venting and blade caps. Results from the simulation were compared with experimental data and it was found that they were in general agreement. The simulations provide continuous information regarding air-flow patterns and velocity distributions during the rotation. Representative patterns of flow are shown.
Improving Long-Term Wind Speed Assessment using Joint Probability Functions Applied to Three Wind Data Sets
Authors: Casella Livio
Published: October 2012

An algorithm for long-term wind speed correction is proposed that uses two reference wind data sets to correct the short-term measurements at the target site; the assessment is computed using one joint probability distribution function which is derivided from the three concurrent records in the short-term period and other two ones built from the concurrent reference data collected in both long-term and short-term periods.

Validation has been carried out against Jpwind algorithm, which is based on the standard correlation analysis between two sites, showing comparable performance in one test case when high level of correlation is present between pairs of met-masts. Other tests, opportunely arranged using artificial wind data time series, show that the implemented method achieves better score, proving that the addition of one reference wind data set can potential increase the accuracy of the long-term assessment.
Ultimate Compressive Strength of Cold-Formed Steel Angle Struts Loaded through a Single Bolt
Authors: Zhou Feng , Lim James B.P. , Young Ben
Published: October 2012

In cold-formed steel trusses and space frames, angles are commonly used for the members, the load being transferred to the members at both ends through a connection to a gusset plate. Such connections are typically formed through bolts or screws. Since this connection is made through one of the angle legs, the load is therefore eccentric to the centroid of the section. On the other hand, owing to contact with the gusset plate and the bolt-head, the ends of the connection possess partial torsional restraint. When designing cold-formed steel angle sections, an engineer would typically take into account the eccentricity of the connection but ignore the beneficial effect of the partial torsional restraint. This paper describes a non-linear elasto-plastic finite element model of angle sections connected to a gusset plate through a single bolt at each end subjected to axial compressive load. The results of the finite element model are validated against previously published full-scale laboratory test results. A parametric study of both equal and unequal angle sections is presented. From the results of the parametric study, simple design recommendations are proposed.
Coupling of Wall Boiling with Discrete Population Balance Model
Authors: Lifante Conxita , Reiterer Florian , Frank Thomas , Burns Alan
Published: October 2012

A coupling between a polydisperse population balance method (Multiple Size Group Model – MUSIG) and the RPI wall boiling model for nucleate subcooled boiling has been implemented in ANSYS CFX. It allows more accurate prediction of the interfacial area density for mass, momentum and energy transfer between phases in comparison to the usual local-monodisperse bubble size assumption and underlying bulk bubble diameter correlations as they are commonly used in boiling flow applications like e.g. the prediction of subcooled nucleate boiling in rod bundles and fuel assemblies of PWR. The paper outlines the methodology of the coupled CFD model, which automatically avoids possible inconsistencies in the model formulation for the heated wall, when the generated steam bubbles on the heater surface are injected exactly in the bubble size class corresponding to the predicted bubble departure diameter. The coupling of the RPI wall boiling model and the MUSIG model has been implemented for both homogenous/inhomogeneous variants of the MUSIG model. The paper presents the validation of the coupled modeling approach for the well known test case of nucleate subcooled boiling of R113 refrigerant in a circular annulus with inner heated rod based on the experiments of Roy et al. [1]. ANSYS CFX results with the newly implemented approach as well as comparison to data and locally-monodisperse simulations are provided.
The Effect of Bubble-Induced Turbulence on the Interfacial Area Transport in Gas-Liquid Two-Phase Flow
Authors: Nguyen Van-Thai , Bae Byoung-Uhn , Euh Dong-Jin , Song Chul-Hwa , Yun Byong-Jo
Published: October 2012

In the present work, two common modelling concepts taking into account the influence of bubbles on the turbulence of the liquid phase with available models in open literature were implemented in the EAGLE (Elaborated Analysis of Gas-Liquid flow Evolution) code and assessed against experimental data of Hibiki et al. (2001). The EAGLE code has been developed at KAERI based on the two-fluid model for a multi-dimensional analysis of two-phase flow with the implementation of non-drag force, standard k-ε turbulence model, and the interfacial area transport equation. In order to investigate the bubble size effect on two-phase flow evolution and to provide a data set for developing the physical models to describe the bubble-induced turbulence effect and also for validating the EAGLE code, a series of local parameter measurements as well as visualization tests were conducted in air-water vertical-upward flow condition in which the initial bubble size is controlled by a specially designed bubble generator. The numerical results and experimental data were compared, analysed and discussed in this paper.
Reconstructions of the East Pediment of the Temple of Zeus at Olympia – A Comparison of Drawings, Plaster Casts and Digital Models
Authors: Patay-Horváth A.
Published: October 2012

The arrangement of the five central figures of the East pediment of the temple of Zeus at Olympia has been the subject of scholarly debates since the discovery of the fragments more than a century ago. In theory, there are four substantially different arrangements, all of which have already been selected by certain scholars for various aesthetic, technical and other considerations. The reconstructions were visualized most frequently in drawings or in plaster models (on a reduced scale or in the original size), which have partly survived in Dresden, but did not receive appropriate attention during the last decades. Most recently the team of a three-years research project lead by the author tried to approach the controversy in a new way, by producing a virtual 3D reonstruction of the group. Digital models of the statues were produced by scanning the original fragments and by reconstructing them virtually. The virtual model of the pediment surrounding the sculptures was prepared on the basis of the latest architectural studies and afterwards the reconstructed models were inserted into this frame, in order to test the technical feasibility and aesthetic effects the four possible arrangements. Finally, the plaster models of the same pieces of ancient sculpture made at the end of the 19th century were also digitized and in this way they could be compared with the digital reconstruction produced during the present project. This paper presents a brief history of research, the final results of the digital reconstruction project and offers a comparison with the earlier attempts achieved by other methods. The advantages of the digital models can be thus fully appreciated.
Ground-State Features in the THz Spectra of Molecular Clusters of β-HMX
Authors: Huang Lulu , Shabaev Andrew , Lambrakos Samuel G. , Massa Lou
Published: October 2012

We present calculations of absorption spectra arising from molecular vibrations at THz frequencies for molecular clusters of the explosive HMX using density functional theory (DFT). The features of these spectra can be shown to follow from the coupling of vibrational modes. In particular, the coupling among ground-state vibrational modes provides a reasonable molecular-level interpretation of spectral features associated with the vibrational modes of molecular clusters. THz excitation from the ground state is associated with frequencies that characteristically perturb molecular electronic states, in contrast to frequencies, which are usually substantially above the mid-infrared (mid-IR) range, that can induce appreciable electronic-state transition. Owing to this characteristic of THz excitation, one is able to make a direct association between local oscillations about ground-state minima of molecules, either isolated or comprising a cluster, and THz absorption spectra. The DFT software program GAUSSIAN was used for the calculations of the absorption spectra presented here.
Automated Model-Based Calibration of Short-Wavelength Infrared (SWIR) Imaging Spectrographs
Authors: Kosec Matjaž , Bürmen Miran , Tomaževič Dejan , Pernuš Franjo , Likar Boštjan
Published: October 2012

Among the variety of available hyperspectral imaging systems, the line-scan technique stands out for its short acquisition time and good signal-to-noise ratio. However, due to imperfections in the camera lens and, in particular, optical components of the imaging spectrograph, the acquired images are spatially and spectrally distorted, which can significantly degrade the accuracy of the subsequent hyperspectral image analysis. In this work, we propose and evaluate an automated method for correction of spatial and spectral distortions introduced by a line-scan hyperspectral imaging system operating in the short wavelength infrared (SWIR) spectral range from 1000 nm to 2500 nm. The proposed method is based on non-rigid registration of the distorted and reference images corresponding to two passive calibration objects. The results of the validation show that the proposed method is accurate, efficient, and applicable for calibration of line-scan hyperspectral imaging systems. Moreover, the design of the method and of the calibration objects allows integration with systems operating in diffuse reflectance or transmittance modes.
High-Throughput Screening System for Creating and Assessing Surface-Modified Porous Silicon
Authors: Kraut Nadine D. , Brattlie Joshua D. , Deuro Randi E. , McGoorty Michelle M. , Bright Frank V.
Published: October 2012

A high-throughput screening system has been developed to rapidly produce, screen, and assess the usefulness of organically modified silane (ORMOSIL)-based xerogel films formed on the surface of porous silicon (pSi) surfaces. The ORMOSILs tested include methyltriethoxysilane, n-octyltriethoxysilane, n-hexyltriethoxysilane, n-propyltriethoxysilane, 2-cyanoethyltriethoxysilane, phenyltriethoxysilane, benzyltriethoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane, tetraethoxysilane, and hexafluoroethyltriethoxysilane. Xerogel microarrays were pin-printed on the surface of O3 oxidized pSi using a computer-controlled robotic pin-printer. The fragile pSi required careful pin-printing parameter optimization to simultaneously ensure sufficient sol application and limit pin-induced damage. These multi-functional xerogel-pSi microarrays were exposed to harsh conditions (0.1 mM NaOH, 15 min) to determine the extent to which the xerogel protected the pSi. Microarray assessment included multispectral photoluminescence and infrared imaging. Results demonstrate that the more hydrophobic/nonpolar xerogel films ( n-octyltriethoxysilane, n-hexyltriethoxysilane) protect the pSi surface the most and maintained the pSi photoluminescence. Also, unlike xerogel material doped with a reporter molecule, the uniformity of the printed feature plays a role in the protection of the pSi material underneath. Areas with thinner xerogel distributions allowed the permeation of NaOH whereas the thicker areas prohibit pSi exposure to NaOH.
Transmission Resonance Raman Spectroscopy: Experimental Results versus Theoretical Model Calculations
Authors: Gonzálvez Alicia G. , Ureña Ángel González
Published: October 2012

A laser spectroscopic technique is described that combines transmission and resonance-enhanced Raman inelastic scattering together with low laser power (< 30 mW) and good spatial resolution (< 200 μm) as operational features. The monitoring of the transmitted inelastic scattering provides an increased signal-to-noise ratio because the low fluorescence background and, on the other hand, the resonant character of the laser excitation, leads to enhanced analytical sensitivity. The spectroscopic technique was applied to investigate the carotenoid content (specifically the β-carotene concentration) of distinct samples that included fruits, reaching a detection limit of the order of hundreds of picograms in solid samples, which is below the level needed for typical food control analysis. Additional features of the present development are direct sampling, noninvasive character, and fast analysis that is not time consuming. From a theoretical point of view, a model for the Raman signal dependence on the sample thickness is also presented. Essentially, the model considers the sample to be homogeneous and describes the underlying physics using only three parameters: the Raman cross-section, the laser-radiation attenuation cross-section, and the Raman signal attenuation cross-section. The model was applied successfully to describe the sample-size dependence of the Raman signal in both β-carotene standards and carrot roots. The present technique could be useful for direct, fast, and nondestructive investigations in food quality control and analytical or physiological studies of animal and human tissues.
Multi-Wavelength Transmission Spectroscopy Revisited for Micron and Submicron Particle Characterization
Authors: Smith Jennifer M. , Roth Alison , Huffman Debra E. , Serebrennikova Yulia M. , Lindon Jack , García-Rubio Luis H.
Published: October 2012

Multi-wavelength transmission (MWT) ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) spectroscopy, a technique underappreciated for particle characterization, is systematically explored using a set of NIST traceable standards over the nominal size range of 20 to 20 000 nm. Experimental results demonstrate that the particle size distributions obtained from MWT spectral data are in excellent agreement with the values reported by the manufacturer. In addition, it is shown that quantitative information on the particle concentration can be obtained—which is not currently accessible from commercially available light scattering instrumentation. The results validate that MWT UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy has a considerable dynamic range for particle size measurements and offers significant advantages over other particle characterization techniques. Among these are the simplicity of the instrumentation and the measurements and the wealth of quantitative information contained in the MWT spectra. Most importantly, with standardized measurement protocols and standardized spectrometer configurations, MWT measurements can be used to provide the user and the manufacturer of particles with traceable data (i.e., the spectra and the quantitative analysis) for quality assurance.
Looking inside Catalyst Extrudates with Time-Resolved Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (TR-SERS)
Authors: Harvey Clare E. , Petterson Ingeborg E. Iping , Weckhuysen Bert M. , Gooijer Cees , Ariese Freek , Mank Arjan J.G.
Published: October 2012

Raman spectroscopy is one of the major characterization methods employed over the last few decades as a nondestructive technique for the study of heterogeneous catalysts and related catalytic reactions. However, the promise of practical applicability on millimeter-sized catalyst bodies, such as extrudates, has not been fulfilled completely. Large fluorescence signals and the highly scattering nature of the extrudates often hamper its practical usage. Different approaches to overcome this problem were examined, including the use of time-resolved Raman spectroscopy (TRRS), spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS), surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), and combinations of these techniques. This paper demonstrates that especially TRRS can provide chemical information at depth within catalyst bodies, overcoming fluorescence background signals and allowing for visualization of analytes at different depths. It also examines the application of time-resolved SERS within catalyst bodies to gain insight into localized activity. With these options a wider applicability of Raman spectroscopy for industrial catalysis research becomes within reach.
A PAUC-based Estimation Technique for Disease Classification and Biomarker Selection
Authors: Schmid Matthias , Hothorn Torsten , Krause Friedemann , Rabe Christina
Published: October 2012

The partial area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (PAUC) is a well-established performance measure to evaluate biomarker combinations for disease classification. Because the PAUC is defined as the area under the ROC curve within a restricted interval of false positive rates, it enables practitioners to quantify sensitivity rates within pre-specified specificity ranges. This issue is of considerable importance for the development of medical screening tests. Although many authors have highlighted the importance of PAUC, there exist only few methods that use the PAUC as an objective function for finding optimal combinations of biomarkers. In this paper, we introduce a boosting method for deriving marker combinations that is explicitly based on the PAUC criterion. The proposed method can be applied in high-dimensional settings where the number of biomarkers exceeds the number of observations. Additionally, the proposed method incorporates a recently proposed variable selection technique (stability selection) that results in sparse prediction rules incorporating only those biomarkers that make relevant contributions to predicting the outcome of interest. Using both simulated data and real data, we demonstrate that our method performs well with respect to both variable selection and prediction accuracy. Specifically, if the focus is on a limited range of specificity values, the new method results in better predictions than other established techniques for disease classification.
Stability results for some classical convexity operations
Authors: Artstein-Avidan S. , Milman V.
Published: October 2012

We study stability and super-stability results, in isomorphic form, for several equations on transforms of convex functions and bodies. We show that additivity of mappings on convex functions is super-stable, and that for maps on closed convex sets which include 0 both additivity and order preservation are stable.
Asymptotic estimates on the time derivative of entropy on a Riemannian manifold
Authors: Lim A. P. C. , Luo D.
Published: October 2012

We consider the entropy of the solution to the heat equation on a Riemannian manifold. When the manifold is compact, we provide two estimates on the rate of change of the entropy in terms of the lower bound on the Ricci curvature and the spectral gap respectively. Our explicit computation for the three dimensional hyperbolic space shows that the time derivative of the entropy is asymptotically bounded by two positive constants.
Endometrial inflammation and effect on implantation improvement and pregnancy outcome
Authors: Granot I , Gnainsky Y , Dekel N
Published: October 2012

Implantation failure, which is presently the major barrier in human fertility, is attributed, in many cases, to the failure of the uterus to acquire receptivity. The transition into a receptive uterus includes cellular changes in the endometrium and the modulated expression of different cytokines, growth factors, transcription factors, and prostaglandins. These molecules partake in the generation of an inflammatory response followed by the recruitment of immune cells. These cells have shown to be involved in the maternal immune tolerance toward the implanted embryo as well as in the maternal–fetus interaction during pregnancy. Most of the accumulated evidence indicates that embryo implantation is associated with an active Th1 inflammatory response while a Th2-humoral inflammation is required for pregnancy maintenance. Yet, recent findings suggest that a Th1 inflammatory response is also necessary for the acquisition of uterine receptivity. This notion was originally suggested by reports from our and other clinical centers worldwide that IVF patients with repeated implantation failure subjected to endometrial biopsy exhibit a substantial improvement in their chances to conceive. These findings, followed by the demonstration of an elevated pro-inflammatory cytokine/chemokine expression, as well as an increased abundance of immune cells, in the endometrium of these patients, raised the idea that acquisition of uterine receptivity is closely associated with an inflammatory response. This review summarizes the molecular and biochemical evidence that confirm this notion and proposes a mechanism by which injury-induced inflammation improves uterine receptivity and the subsequent pregnancy outcome.
Roles of the oviduct in mammalian fertilization
Authors: Coy P , García-Vázquez F A , Visconti P E , Avilés M
Published: October 2012

The oviduct or Fallopian tube is the anatomical region where every new life begins in mammalian species. After a long journey, the spermatozoa meet the oocyte in the specific site of the oviduct named ampulla and fertilization takes place. The successful fertilization depends on several biological processes that occur in the oviduct some hours before this rendezvous and affect both gametes. Estrogen and progesterone, released from the ovary, orchestrate a series of changes by genomic and nongenomic pathways in the oviductal epithelium affecting gene expression, proteome, and secretion of its cells into the fluid bathing the oviductal lumen. In addition, new regulatory molecules are being discovered playing important roles in oviductal physiology and fertilization. The present review tries to describe these processes, building a comprehensive map of the physiology of the oviduct, to better understand the importance of this organ in reproduction. With this purpose, gamete transport, sperm and oocyte changes in the oviductal environment, and other interactions between gametes and oviduct are discussed in light of recent publications in the field.
Long-term Outcomes of Infant Behavioral Dysregulation
Authors: Hyde Rebecca , O’Callaghan Michael J. , Bor William , Williams Gail M. , Najman Jake M.
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVES:

To determine whether maternal report of infant behavioral dysregulation at 6 months is associated with a higher prevalence of behavioral concerns at 5, 14, and 21 years of age; and to assess the extent to which maternal and social factors may affect reported child behavior outcomes.

METHODS:

From the Mater-University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy cohort of 7223 live singleton babies, information on dysregulation was available for 6389 children at 6 months. Of those children, behavior data were available for 4836 at 5 years by using a modified Child Behavior Checklist, 4746 at 14 years by using a full Child Behavior Checklist and Youth Self-Report, and 3558 at 21 years by using a Young Adult Self-Report. Of the youth with dysregulation data at 6 months, 2308 completed the Composite International Diagnostic Interview at 21 years. Potential confounding and mediating factors were analyzed by using logistic regression.

RESULTS:

Maternal-reported behavioral dysregulation at 6 months was associated with a significantly higher prevalence of maternal-reported behavior problems at 5 and 14 years (P < .001), but not youth self-reported problems at 14 or 21 years, or Composite International Diagnostic Interview–Diagnostic and Statistical Manual diagnoses at 21 years. The strength of association between infant dysregulation and maternal-reported behaviors was greater at 5 years than at 14 years, and was substantially reduced by adjusting for maternal, social, and infant factors, especially potentially the mediating factors of maternal anxiety and depression.

CONCLUSIONS:

Infant behavioral dysregulation was a risk factor for maternal-reported behavior concerns at 5 and 14 years, although was unrelated to young adult mental health.
Transition and Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: DeBaun Michael R. , Telfair Joseph
Published: October 2012

Sickle cell disease (SCD), the most common genetic disease screened for in the newborn period, occurs in ∼1 in 2400 newborns in the general population and 1 in 400 individuals of African descent in the United States. Despite the relative high prevalence and low pediatric mortality rate of SCD when compared with other genetic diseases or chronic diseases in pediatrics, few evidence-based guidelines have been developed to facilitate the transition from pediatrics to an internal medicine or family practice environment. As with any pediatric transition program, common educational, social, and health systems themes exist to prepare for the next phase of health care; however, unique features characterizing the experience of adolescents with SCD must also be addressed. These challenges include, but are not limited to, a higher proportion of SCD adolescents receiving public health insurance when compared with any other pediatric genetic or chronic diseases; the high proportion of overt strokes or silent cerebral infarcts (∼30%) affecting cognition; risk of low high school graduation; and a high rate of comorbid disease, including asthma. Young adults with SCD are living longer; consequently, the importance of transitioning from a pediatric primary care provider to adult primary care physician has become a critical step in the health care management plan. We identify how the primary care physicians in tandem with the pediatric specialist can enhance transition interventions for children and adolescents with SCD.
Mentored Self-Help: A Promising Approach to Exploring Voices
Authors: Casstevens Willa J. , Coker Joy , Sanders Tia D.
Published: October 2012

This article explores voice-hearing experiences in the context of a mentored self-help approach to coping that used the workbook Working With Voices (Coleman & Smith, 1997) with the support of a trusted other or mentor. Casstevens, Cohen, Newman, and Dumaine (2006) found that the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) factor of anxious depression improved significantly post–workbook completion relative to a comparison group, although BPRS global psychopathology scores did not change significantly (n = 27). Further exploration of available voice-hearing data was indicated, and the present study examined Topography of Voices Rating Scale (TVRS) scores and participant-reported stressors. The TVRS was completed by intervention-group participants (n = 16) without oversight, and 9 participants provided consistently complete TVRS forms that could be scored and graphed. For these participants, no connection was observed between TVRS scores and the presence or absence of reported stressors. Furthermore, pre–post difference scores for the TVRS were relatively unchanged. No evidence of harm was found, indicating that for study participants, the self-help approach reduced anxiety and depression without exacerbating voice hearing.
Treatment of Supra‐Alveolar‐Type Defects by a Simplified Papilla Preservation Technique for Access Flap Surgery With or Without Enamel Matrix Proteins
Authors: Di Tullio Marcella , Femminella Beatrice , Pilloni Andrea , Romano Luigi , D'Arcangelo Camillo , De Ninis Paolo , Paolantonio Michele
Published: October 2012

Background: In this study, we compare the effectiveness of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) associated with a simplified papilla preservation flap (SPPF) technique to SPPF alone when surgically treating supra‐alveolar‐type defects.

Methods: Fifty patients, from 54 initially selected, presenting horizontal bone loss around ≥4 adjacent teeth, were treated by an SPPF technique; 25 participants also received EMD (test group) and 25 patients underwent flap surgery alone (control group). A complete clinical and radiographic examination was performed at baseline and 12 months after treatment. Pre‐ and post‐therapy probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession (GR), and radiographic bone level (BL) were compared between treatments.

Results: After 12 months, PD, CAL, and GR in both groups showed significant differences from baseline (P <0.001). No differences in BL scores were observed within the groups at the 12‐month examination. After 1 year, the test group showed significantly (P <0.001) greater PD reduction (3.4 ± 0.7 mm) and CAL gain (2.8 ± 0.8 mm) and a smaller GR increase (0.6 ± 0.4 mm) compared to the control group (PD, 2.2 ± 0.8 mm; CAL, 1.0 ± 0.6 mm; GR, 1.2 ± 0.7 mm.) BL changes did not significantly differ between the experimental groups.

Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that combining EMD and SPPF in the treatment of suprabony defects may lead to a greater clinical improvement compared to SPPF alone.
Clinical Efficacy of Subgingivally Delivered 1.2% Atorvastatin in Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Pradeep A.R. , Kumari Minal , Rao Nishanth S. , Martande Santosh S. , Naik Savitha B.
Published: October 2012

Background: Atorvastatin (ATV) is a specific competitive inhibitor of 3‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐glutaryl coenzyme A reductase. Recently, statins have shown pleiotropic effects such as anti‐inflammation and bone stimulation. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effectiveness of 1.2% ATV as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects (IBDs).

Methods: Sixty individuals were randomized into two treatment groups: SRP plus 1.2% ATV and SRP plus placebo gel. At baseline and 3, 6, and 9 months, clinical parameters, which included modified sulcus bleeding index, plaque index, probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL), were recorded at baseline. Radiologic assessment of IBD fill was done using computer‐aided software at baseline and 6 and 9 months.

Results: Mean PD reduction and mean CAL gain were greater in the ATV group than the placebo group at 3, 6, and 9 months. A significantly greater mean percentage of radiographic bone fill was found in the ATV group (35.49% ± 5.50%) compared to the placebo group (1.82% ± 1.32%) after 9 months.

Conclusion: ATV as an adjunct to SRP can provide a new direction in the management of IBDs.
An analytical solution to the problem of radiative heat and mass transfer over an inclined plate at prescribed heat flux with chemical reaction
Authors: Kumar Hitesh
Published: October 2012

A steady laminar flow of viscous electrically conducting incompressible
fluid, over a semi-infinite inclined porous plate, which is at prescribed
heat flux with radiation, heat generation and chemical reaction is presented
in the manuscript. The analytical solutions for velocity, concentration and
temperature are found in terms of the exponential function. The effects of
various parameters like chemical reaction, thermal Grashof number, radiation
parameter, angle of inclination etc. on the velocity and temperature are
presented graphically.
A study of esterification of caffeic acid with methanol using p-toluenesulfonic acid as a catalyst
Authors: Wang Jun , Gu Shuangshuang , Pang Na , Wang Fangqin , Wu Fuan
Published: October 2012

Caffeic acid (CA) can be considered as an important natural antioxidant.
However, the low solubility and stability of CA in various solvent systems is
a major limiting factor governing the overall application in the lipid
industry, so the synthesis of methyl caffeate (MC)using CA and methanol is a
feasible way to improve its lipophilicity. Here, the reaction conditions and
kinetic parameters for the synthesis of MC using p-toluenesulfonic acid
(PTSA) as a catalyst were firstly investigated, and the product was confirmed
byliquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS),Fourier transform infrared
spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and melting point
analysis. The highest yield of MC catalyzed by PTSA reached 84.0% under the
optimum conditions as follows: molar ratio of methanol to CA of 20:1, reaction
temperature of 65?C, mass ratio of catalyst to substrate of 8 %, and reaction
time of 4 h. The esterification kinetics of CA and methanol is described by
the pseudo-homogeneous second order reversible model, the relationship
between temperature and the forward rate constant is k1 = exp (358.7 -
2111/T), and the activation energy is 17.5 kJ mol-1. These results indicated
that the PTSA possesses high catalytic activity in the synthesis of MC, which
is an efficient catalyst suitable for MC production in the chemical industry.
Prospective Associations Between Emotional Distress and Poor Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Aikens James E.
Published: October 2012

OBJECTIVE

Cross-sectional studies link both depressive symptoms (DS) and diabetes-related distress (DRD) to diabetes self-management and/or glycemic control. However, longitudinal studies of these variables are rare, and their results are somewhat conflicting. The study objective was to compare DS and DRD as longitudinal predictors of medication adherence, self-care behavior, and glycemic control in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Primary care patients with type 2 diabetes reported DS, DRD, and other variables at baseline were studied. Medication adherence, self-care behaviors (diet, physical activity, and glucose testing), and glycemic control (HbA1c) were assessed 6 months later (n = 253). Cross-sectional and longitudinal regression analyses were used to model behavioral and medical outcomes as a function of baseline confounders, DS, and DRD.

RESULTS

Adjusted cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses yielded very similar results. In the latter, only DS were significantly associated with future diet behavior (P = 0.049), physical activity (P = 0.001), and glucose testing (P = 0.018). In contrast, only DRD predicted future glycemic control (P < 0.001) and medication adherence (P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Distress-outcome associations seem to vary by type of distress under consideration. Only DS predicts future lifestyle-oriented self-management behaviors. In contrast, only DRD predicts glycemic control, perhaps by decreasing medication adherence. Clinical assessment and intervention should encompass both types of distress, unless the goal is to narrowly target a highly specific outcome.
Spectroscopic Detection of Active Species on Catalytic Surfaces: Steady-State versus Transient Method
Authors: Maeda Nobutaka , Meemken Fabian , Hungerbühler Konrad , Baiker Alfons
Published: October 2012

Discrimination between active and spectator species is an important and demanding task in catalysis research. A comparative study of the Pd-catalyzed CO hydrogenation using in situ diffuse reflectance IR Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) in steady-state and dynamic (transient)
experiments shows that the information on surface species differs significantly depending on the type of experiment. In order to discriminate between active species and spectator species not involved in the surface reactions, DRIFTS was combined with a transient technique, modulation excitation
spectroscopy (MES). This approach allows the detection of surface species responding to a specific periodic external stimulus, i.e.achieved by concentration modulation, and thereby offers excellent potential to unveil features of the surface processes, which are not accessible by steady-state
experiments. However, the example of CO hydrogenation shows that the perturbation imposed to the system has to be chosen properly to benefit from the transient technique. Modulation of the CO concentration did not provide deeper insight into the reaction mechanism, whereas periodic changes
of the hydrogen concentration provided valuable information concerning the active surface species and the reaction pathway. The study revealed that only a small fraction (about 4%) of CO molecules adsorbed on specific Pd sites reacted with hydrogen, while the majority of adsorbed CO was inactive.
The inactive CO molecules overwhelmingly contributed to the spectra measured under steady-state conditions.
Why Do People Delay Accessing Health Care for Knee Osteoarthritis? Exploring Beliefs of Health Professionals and Lay People
Authors: Prasanna Shreya S. , Korner-Bitensky Nicol , Ahmed Sara
Published: October 2012

Purpose: In knee osteoarthritis (OA), opportunity for non-surgical intervention is reduced by time lost between symptom onset and diagnosis. The study's purpose was to understand, from the perspective of various stakeholders, the reasons for delay and useful strategies to enhance early awareness of knee OA. Method: In this qualitative study, focus groups of health professionals (n=6) and community-dwelling individuals (n=7) discussed questions relating to knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about OA; experiences with people with OA; health care seeking behaviour; and access to services, and suggested strategies to enhance public awareness. Qualitative analyses identified dominant themes. Results: Reasons for delay from the laypersons' perspective included lack of knowledge about risk factors and prevention and a belief that knee pain is expected with age. Reasons related to the health care system included long wait times and frustration getting appointments. Health professionals were unclear on which discipline should discuss prevention and risk factors. Suggested strategies included advocating a healthy lifestyle, developing prevention programs, and using celebrities to inform the public. Conclusions: Participants identified multiple reasons for delays and strategies to counter them. Knowledge about gaps in the OA care process can facilitate physiotherapists' participation in developing strategies for early intervention.
Microstructure and high temperature deformation of an ultra-fine grained ECAP AA7075 aluminium alloy
Authors: Málek Přemysl , Turba Kryštof , Cieslar Miroslav , Harcuba Petr
Published: October 2012

An AA 7075 aluminium alloy with an ultra-fine grained structure was prepared through equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) at pressing temperatures TECAP of 120, 170, and 220 °C. A decrease in TECAP from 220 to 120 °C was found to lead to a more pronounced refinement of the microstructure and to worse stability of the microstructure – the onset of grain coarsening was displaced to lower temperatures. The material pressed with the highest TECAP exhibited superplastic behaviour at temperatures close to 400 °C and grain boundary sliding was identified as the dominant operating deformation mechanism. The materials prepared with both of the lower TECAP exhibited only enhanced ductility of about 200 %, however this behaviour was observed at temperatures as low as 200 °C. It was found that this “low temperature superplasticity” resulted from a combined operation of grain boundary sliding at selected grain boundaries and glide of lattice dislocations.
Erosion wear performance of a surface diffusion alloyed coating on pure magnesium
Authors: Ma Youping , Li Xiulan , Yang Lei
Published: October 2012

Diffusion alloying processing is an emerging, environmentally friendly, surface engineering technique. In this study, we have utilized diffusion alloying processing to alloy aluminum and zinc mixed powder on pure magnesium for erosion wear protection. A stirring device was used for erosion testing. The treated and untreated samples were immersed in oil slurry and water slurry with quartz sand in suspension and rotated at a given speed. Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to study the surface morphology and chemical composition of the coatings before and after erosion testing.