bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposed Modifications for Models of Heat Transfer Problems Involving Partially Melted Phase Change Processes
Authors: Fang Yuan , Medina Mario A.
Published: August 2009

Air conditioning electricity consumption in summer represents a challenge in many areas with hot and humid climates. When incorporated into lightweight residential building walls, phase change materials (PCMs) can increase the effective thermal mass of the wall, which in turn will shift part of the cooling load to off-peak times and lower the peak space cooling load of the building. From analyses of experimental data, it was found that it was very likely that the PCMs, once integrated into the walls, would “start” the phase change process from partially melted states. Currently used simulation models, including the most widely accepted models, such as the effective heat capacity method and the enthalpy method, come short when handling phase change processes that start from partially melted states. The characteristics of how the heat is absorbed or released during the phase change process were studied through experimental and theoretical analyses. A differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) method and its detailed steps, used to obtain latent heat of fusion distribution along the phase change temperature range, are presented. Based on the DSC test data, a modified PCM model for a paraffin-based PCM was developed.
Role of Vapor Barrier in Wood-Frame Stucco Wall in Various North American Climates: Observations from Hygrothermal Simulation
Authors: Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni , Ping Fang , Kumaran Kumar , van Reenen David
Published: August 2009

This paper investigates the role of the vapor barrier in exterior wood-frame stucco walls with the help of a two-dimensional hygrothermal simulation tool, hygIRC-2D. For this purpose, the wall is subjected to the exterior weather conditions of six different North American geographic locations and three different interior climatic conditions. Seven different vapor diffusion strategies, generated by varying the water vapor permeance of the vapor barrier, installed outboard of the interior finish, have been studied to generate critical understanding on the role of vapor barrier in the wood-frame stucco walls. The outputs from the simulations have been analyzed with the help of a novel moisture response indicator called RHT index. Simulation results indicate that the vapor transmission characteristics of the vapor barrier, in terms of water vapor permeance, play a very important role in the overall moisture response of the wood-frame stucco wall. A very high or low vapor permeance of the vapor barrier does not produce the optimum moisture management strategy for the wood-frame stucco wall. Moreover, simulation results indicate that the removal of vapor barrier from the wall system can result in a heightened moisture response and a considerable accumulation of moisture in the interior gypsum board that may lead to severe consequences in particular, the premature deterioration of the interior facing gypsum board. It has also been observed from the simulation outputs that the optimum vapor diffusion strategy, that of limiting the vapor permeance of the vapor barrier, is not a function of interior climatic conditions considered in this study. It is hoped that the results reported in this paper will shed some light on a number of concerns raised in recent years on the role of vapor barrier in wood-frame stucco wall construction.
Foam Tests for Lubricating Oils: Limitations of Reliability and Reproducibility
Authors: Nadkarni R. A. Kishore
Published: August 2009

The ASTM D892 foam test is a simple yet important method for evaluating the foaming tendency and stability of lubricating oils. Numerous interlaboratory studies have clearly shown the poor repeatability and reproducibility of this test. Often the quality of diffusers used in the test is questionable, yet many laboratories do not verify the diffuser quality. Perhaps using only the metal diffusers will improve the situation since these are machine made and can be fabricated to the required maximum pore size and permeability specifications. A review of the critical factors involved in conducting the ASTM D892 foam test is presented. Changes are proposed to the materials and procedures that will improve the precision of this important test method.
The Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Periodontitis in the Copenhagen City Heart Study
Authors: Kongstad Johanne , Hvidtfeldt Ulla A. , Grønbæk Morten , Stoltze Kaj , Holmstrup Palle
Published: August 2009

Background: Obesity is hypothesized to involve immunoinflammatory alterations, and the condition has been related to increased susceptibility to periodontitis. The present study analyzed the association between overweight/obesity and periodontitis assessed as clinical attachment loss (AL) and bleeding on probing (BOP) in a cross‐sectional design.

Methods: Participants included 878 women and 719 men aged 20 to 95 years (participation rate 54%) who underwent an oral examination, including full‐mouth recording of clinical AL and BOP. Overweight and obesity were assessed by body mass index (BMI) using the World Health Organization criteria. BMI was related to clinical AL (defined as mean ≥3 mm) and BOP (defined as ≥25%) by multivariable logistic regression in the total population and in subjects stratified by gender and smoking habits.

Results: Obese participants had a lower odds ratio (OR) for clinical AL compared to participants with normal weight (OR: 0.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.36 to 0.99). The same tendency was observed in subjects stratified by smoking habit. Obese never‐smokers had a lower OR for clinical AL compared to never‐smoking participants with normal weight (OR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.91). Overweight participants had a higher OR for BOP compared to subjects with normal weight (OR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.78). In addition, overweight never‐smokers had a higher OR for BOP compared to normal weight never‐smokers (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.59).

Conclusion: BMI may be inversely associated with clinical AL but positively related to BOP.
Benign Oral Masses in a Northern Jordanian Population-a Retrospective Study
Authors: Al-Khateeb Taiseer Hussain
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relative frequencies, types and distribution of benign oral masses in North Jordanians. The records of the Department of Pathology at Jordan University of Science & Technology were reviewed and analyzed for patients with benign oral soft tissue masses, received during an 11-year period (1991-2001). The main outcome measures were patients’ age and sex, and the mass type and location. A sum of 818 benign oral soft tissue masses (4% neoplastic and 96% non-neoplastic) was analyzed. Common benign neoplasms were salivary pleomorphic adenoma and lipoma. Non-neoplastic lesions consisted of traumatic (43%) inflammatory/ infective (33%), cystic (14%) and developmental (9%) lesions. Common non-neoplastic lesions were fibroepithelial polyp, pyogenic granuloma, mucoceles, hemangioma and squamous papilloma, in a descending order. There were 330 (40%) males and 488 (60%) females with a male to female ratio of 1: 1.5. The mean age was 33 years, with the majority in the 2nd, 3rd and 4th decades. The sites commonly affected by benign neoplasms were the palate, tongue, upper lip and buccal mucosa, in a descending order and the sites commonly affected by non-neoplastic lesions were the gingiva, buccal mucosa, lower lip and tongue in a descending order. It is concluded that some of the features of benign oral masses in north Jordanians published in this paper are similar to those from other countries, and some are different. Further nationwide population-based surveys are needed to further define the epidemiology of benign oral masses among Jordanians.
The Relationship Between Bleeding on Probing and Subgingival Deposits. An Endoscopical Evaluation
Authors: Checchi Luigi , Montevecchi Marco , Checchi Vittorio , Zappulla Franco
Published: August 2009

Background:

Bleeding on probing (BOP) is an indicator of tissue inflammatory response to bacterial pathogens. Due to anatomical limitations, the entity and physical state of microbial aggregations located under the gingival margin and their relations to BOP have been hardly investigated till now. The recent introduction of the endoscopy has allowed clinicians to observe the subgingival environment in a non-traumatic way. The aim of this study is to evaluate the correlation between BOP and subgingival deposits by using this new technology.

Methods:

107 teeth (642 individual sites) from 16 periodontal patients, treated with scaling and root planing, were evaluated for plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), endoscopic biofilm index (EBI), and endoscopic calculus index (ECI) at one-month revaluation.

Results:

A linear association between BOP and PD, EBI, and ECI was detected. The BOP provided a high level of specificity but quite low sensitivity values both for ECI (sensitivity 40%, specificity 86%) and EBI (sensitivity 37%, specificity 89%). The BOP sensitivity was directly linked to the amount of subgingival deposits.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates a direct relationship between BOP and presence/amount of subgingival deposits. More investigations on larger samples are, however, needed.
Dental Fear: One Single Clinical Question for Measurement
Authors: Jaakkola S. , Rautava P. , Alanen P. , Aromaa M , Pienihäkkinen K , Räihä H. , Vahlberg T. , Mattila1 M.-L. , Sillanpää M.
Published: August 2009

A new dental fear measurement instrument, the Short Dental Fear Question (SDFQ), was developed and tested for clinical practice purposes. The correlations of the SDFQ with the Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and the Dental Fear Survey (DFS) were tested in 15-16-year-old adolescents. The Spearman correlations (rs) between the dental fear measurement instruments were: SDFQ – DFS: rs= 0.79, n = 26; DFS – DAS: rs= 0.72, n = 26; SDFQ– DAS: rs= 0.69, n = 27. DAS and DFS mean scores were clearly higher in the SDFQ fear group than SDFQ in the relaxed group. The SDFQ is a short and compact instrument which might be convenient for the measurement of dental fear in clinical practice.
The Relationship Between the Mid-Point and Most-Prominent Point on the Labial Curve of Upper Anterior Teeth
Authors: Smith R.N. , Brook A.H , Karmo M.
Published: August 2009

Objectives: This study investigates coincidence of the most-prominent point and the mid-point on upper anterior teeth in relation to the use of straight-wire appliances.

Materials and Methods: Alginate impressions of the upper jaw were obtained from forty Caucasian patients. Impressions were cast using hard dental stone. The teeth on each upper study model (canine to canine) were marked along the facial axis of the clinical crown (FACC line) then separated using a very thin diamond disc. Each tooth was mounted on a glass slide using sticky wax and cut into two halves down this FACC line. Images were acquired of the sections and a straight line connecting the gingival margin and the incisal edge was drawn on the flat cut surfaces (now the proximal crosssectional view). From this line, perpendicular lines were drawn at the mid-point and most prominent point to the labial curve. Coincidence rate was calculated or whether the most prominent point was gingival or incisal to the mid-point.

Results: Approximately 80% of upper central incisors had coincident mid- and most-prominent points. Upper lateral incisors and canine teeth had approximately 50% coincidence. The vast majority of cases without coincidence showed the most-prominent point incisal to the mid-point for all tooth kinds with just 5% or less gingival.

Conclusions: The high proportions of non-coincident examples found suggest that clinicians should be aware of individual variation and that this may possibly effect 3rd order alignment.
Effects of three types of physical activity on reduction of metabolic parameters involved in cardiovascular risk
Authors: Petrovic-Oggiano Gordana , Damjanov Vlasta , Vucic Vesna , Debeljak-Martacic Jasmina , Pavlovic Mirjana , Glibetic Marija
Published: August 2009

The aim of present study was to investigate the effects of three different types of physical activity on reduction of the metabolic parameters mainly responsible for cardiovascular diseases. This prospective-intervention study was performed at the 'CIGOTA' Thyroid Institute on Mt. Zlatibor (Serbia) between August 2004 and June 2006. Sixty-eight overweight/obese patients aged 40-70 years with hyperlipidemia were divided into three groups according to their weight and overall health. The program of physical workout included: group I - fast walking; group II - gymnastic exercises and specially chosen exercises in the swimming pool; and group III - combined physical training of higher intensity and greater length. All patients were also on a special reduced diet of 1000 kcal per day, the AHA step-2 diet. We monitored the body mass index, body composition, glucose, cholesterol (total, LDL-, and HDL-), and triglycerides before, during, and after the intervention. After 2 and particularly 12 weeks of intervention, a significant improvement of all metabolic parameters was achieved in all three groups of patients. Although most patients completed the study with normal values of all parameters, the most desirable results were achieved in group III (combined exercises with an average energy expenditure of 900 kcal per day). Our research indicates that a specially conceived program of physical activity and diet intervention resulted in significant reduction of cardiovascular risk factors.
Determination of total antioxidant status (TAS) as a biochemical parameter in control of workers' health
Authors: Jozanov-Stankov Olga , Djuric Jovanka , Dobutovic Branislava , Isenovic Esma
Published: August 2009

Despite its importance for human health, the capacity of the antioxidative defense system (AOS) is still not included among regular biochemical analyses. In this study, we estimated the blood plasma level of the total antioxidant status (TAS) as an appropriate parameter for AOS monitoring with the aim of including it among other biochemical parameters in the regular control of health of the working population. We have applied a method developed by Randox Laboratories (England) that can be routinely performed on automatic chemical analyzers. The TAS level, in correlation with corresponding biochemical parameters, could contribute to better evaluation of the health of individuals and the working population.
Hashimoto encephalopathy: Neurological and psychiatric perspective
Authors: Pavlovic D.M. , Pavlovic Aleksandra , Lackovic Maja
Published: August 2009

Hashimoto encephalopathy (HE) is an autoimmune disease with neurological and neuropsychiatric manifestations and elevated titers of antithyroid antibodies in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. Patients are mostly women. Age varies from 8 to 86 years. Prevalence of HE is estimated to be 2.1/100,000. Neurological and/or psychiatric symptoms and signs constitute the clinical picture. The disease responds well to corticosteroid therapy, but sometimes other immunomodulatory therapies must be applied. Autoimmune mechanisms with antibodies against antigens in the brain cortex are suspected. The course of the disease can be acute, subacute, chronic, or relapsing/remitting. Some patients improve spontaneously, but a few died in spite of adequate therapy.
Some factors affecting the autoaggregation ability of vaginal lactobacilli isolated from Turkish women
Authors: Ekmekçi Havva , Aslim Belma , Darilmaz Önal
Published: August 2009

In this work, autoaggregation and factors involved in the autoaggregation ability of vaginal lactobacilli were studied. The autoaggregation ability of 28 lactobacilli strains was positive. The effects of various factors on autoaggregation were also evaluated. Lactobacillus jensenii A1, L. salivarius I1, and L. cellobiosus I3 showed higher autoaggregation in acidic conditions and lower autoaggregation in hot (70 and 85oC) conditions. The L. salivarius I1 strain, which exhibited high autoaggregation activity, also showed good autoaggregation in pepsin, lipase, and sodium periodate, as well as under conditions of sonication and heat. The results of this study suggest that lactobacilli showing high autoaggregation may constitute an important host defense mechanism against infections as a probiotic.
Bioactivity of extracts of Centaurea polyclada dc. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Granger Melanie , Samson Emilie , Sauvage Severine , Majumdar Anisha , Nigam Poonam , Nahar Lutfun , Celik Sezgin , Sarker Satyajit
Published: August 2009

The free radical-scavenging property, antibacterial activity, and brine shrimp toxicity of n-hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), and methanol (MeOH) extracts of Centaurea polyclada, an endemic Turkish species, were assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay, the resazurin microtiter plate-based assay, and the brine shrimp lethality assay, respectively. The DCM and MeOH extracts of C. polyclada exhibited free radical-scavenging ability with RC50 values 1.17 and 0.015 mg/mL, respectively. Among solid-phase extraction fractions of the MeOH extract, the fraction eluted with 60% MeOH in water demonstrated the highest level of free radical-scavenging activity (RC50 = 0.016 mg/mL). Only the DCM extract showed considerable antibacterial activity against all nine test strains except Escherichia coli, with MIC ranging from 1.25 to 2.50 mg/mL. This antibacterial activity pattern was also observed with solid-phase extraction fractions of the DCM extract with varied potencies. None of the extracts showed any significant toxicity towards brine shrimps (LD50 = >1.00 mg/mL).
Influence of a trout farm on macrozoobenthos communities of the Tresnjica river, Serbia
Authors: Zivic Ivana , Markovic Z. , Zivic M.
Published: August 2009

Trout farming poses an increasing threat to quality of the water of clean highland streams. Research of this problem has focused primarily on changes in physico-chemical composition of the water and structure of the river bottom, and less on the effects on living organisms. In the present work, we investigated influence of the farm with the highest trout production in Serbia, the 'Riboteks' Trout Farm on the Tresnjica River, on its macrozoobenthos communities. Our investigations showed that the 'Riboteks' Trout Farm wastewaters caused a clear and statistically significant change of moderate intensity in all measured parameters describing the composition and structure of macrozoobenthos communities. These changes were most pronounced in the part of the watercourse closest to the influx of waste water (locality III) but remained statistically significant even 500 m downstream (locality IV) and were lost only about 3.5 km away from the influx of the farm's wastewater (locality V). The most pronounced were changes in the participation in total abundance of the Baetidae, Chironomidae, and Plecoptera. Additionally, results of the present work confirmed that the mass of fish on the trout farm is a parameter that adequately defines the strength of its action, above all the intensity of its influence on structure of the macrozoobenthos community.
Mortality of red mullet (Mullus barbatus Linnaeus, 1758) on the Montenegrin shelf (South Adriatic)
Authors: Joksimovic A. , Regner S. , Gacic Z.
Published: August 2009

Red mullet, Mullus barbatus Linnaeus, 1758, is an economically very important species in trawl fisheries in the Adriatic Sea. Material for analysis was collected from October 2002 until May 2004 with a bottom trawl net from commercial trawlers on the Montenegrin shelf. Mortality of this species was analyzed for the first time in this area, sepa?rately for males and females and for both sexes together. Until now, only the spatial distribution and catch per unit of effort (CPUE) of Mullus barbatus have been studied in Montenegrin waters. Estimated total mortality rates were Zmales = 0.653 and Zfemales = 0.712. The average mortality rate for both sexes was Z m+f = 0.749, while the natural mortality rate was Mm+f = 0.342. Values of Z in the Montenegrin shelf area are considerably lower than Z values for the Croatian and Italian parts of the Adriatic Sea, indicating that on the Montenegrin shelf fishing of this species is significantly less intensive than in other trawl-fishing areas of the Adriatic Sea.
Intra-species differentiation among Drosophila subobscura from different habitats in Serbia
Authors: Jelic M. , Kenig B. , Kurbalija Zorana , Stamenkovic-Radak Marina , Andjelkovic M.
Published: August 2009

Adaptation to different environmental conditions is a natural phenomenon that potentially leads to population subdivision. We surveyed genetic differentiation in inversion polymorphism within populations of Drosophila subobscura sampled in three ecologically different forest communities. The analysis of inversion polymorphism revealed significant differences between some pairs of samples in some gene arrangement frequencies of the A, U, and E chromosomes and some karyotype combination frequencies of the U chromosome, but significant differentiation within populations was not observed. It cannot be decided which evolutionary forces are responsible for the observed variability in inversion polymorphism.
Nematofauna of bank vole: Clethrionomys glareolus (Schreber, 1780) from Mt. Fruska gora (Serbia)
Authors: Bjelic-Cabrilo Olivera , Popovic Ester , Simic Smiljka , Kostic Desanka
Published: August 2009

The nematofauna of bank vole (Clethrionomys glareolus) was analyzed for the first time from samples collected in our country. The specimens were collected in Fruska Gora National Park (locality of Brankovac). The number of collected specimens was 138, and infestation with seven nematode species was determined: Heligmosomum mixtum (Schulz, 1954), Heligmosomoides glareoli (Baylis, 1928), Syphacia petrusewiczi (Bernard, 1966), S. stroma (Linstow, 1884), Capillaria murissylvatici (Dieseng, 1851), Trichocephalus muris Schrank, 1788, and Aspiculuris tetraptera (Nitzsch, 1821). The species Heligmosomum mixtum, Heligmosomoides glareoli, and Syphacia petrusewiczi represent the first records for the territory of our country. The species best represented in the sample were H. glareoli and S. petrusewiczi. There were no statistically significant differences between the sexes of host species regarding the prevalence, mean intensity, or mean abundance of parasite invasion.
Professionals' conduct as a condition for minimizing secondary victimization of the victims of spouse abuse
Authors: Ignjatovic Tanja
Published: August 2009

Through analysis of the 'administrative' aspects of experts' documentation kept by three services in one local community - the police station, the center for social welfare and the primary health care center, the possibility of reducing victimization of victims of partnership violence within the family is the subject of consideration. The results of the analysis point to the necessity of rationalization and standardization of recording and procedures by the professionals.
Pretrial detention and alternate methods of securing the presence of the accused during the criminal procedure
Authors: Perisic Jelena
Published: August 2009

In this paper, the author discusses pretrial detention and alternate methods of securing the presence of the accused during the criminal procedure. Except issues of terminology, in the introduction to this paper, the author deals with the current status of our criminal justice system, the readiness of both the state and the criminal justice system to accept innovations. Further, the author examines the accordance of pretrial detention with international sources, then its correlations with the Constitution, Criminal Procedure Codes from 2001 and 2006, and types of pretrial detention. As the paper continues, it describes institutes that are alternatives of pretrial detention: home detention and other restriction orders, and bail. The paper follows with the definition and content of the reasonable doubt concept as a mandatory condition for pronouncing pretrial detention. The major part of the paper deals is dedicated to the discussion of legal regulations of pretrial detention and its misinterpretation by judicial apparatus, and the effort to explain some undefined parts of those regulations.
Intensive Glucose-Lowering Therapy Reduces Cardiovascular Disease Events in Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial Participants With Lower Calcified Coronary Atherosclerosis
Authors: Reaven Peter D. , Moritz Thomas E. , Schwenke Dawn C. , Anderson Robert J. , Criqui Michael , Detrano Robert , Emanuele Nicholas , Kayshap Moti , Marks Jennifer , Mudaliar Sunder , Harsha Rao R. , Shah Jayendra H. , Goldman Steven , Reda Domenic J. , McCarren Madeline , Abraira Carlos , Duckworth William ,   for the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the hypothesis that baseline calcified coronary atherosclerosis may determine cardiovascular disease events in response to intensive glycemic control within the Veterans Affairs Diabetes Trial (VADT).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

At baseline, 301 type 2 diabetic participants in the VADT, a randomized trial comparing the effects of intensive versus standard glucose lowering on cardiovascular events, had baseline coronary atherosclerosis assessed by coronary artery calcium (CAC) measured by computed tomography. Participants were followed over the 7.5-year study for development of cardiovascular end points.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up duration of 5.2 years, 89 cardiovascular events occurred. Although intensive glucose-lowering therapy did not significantly reduce cardiovascular events in the substudy cohort as a whole, there was evidence that the response was modified by baseline CAC, as indicated by significant P values for treatment by log(CAC + 1) interaction terms in unadjusted and multivariable-adjusted models (0.01 and 0.03, respectively). Multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for the effect of treatment indicated a progressive diminution of benefit with increasing CAC. Subgroup analyses were also conducted for clinically relevant CAC categories: those above and below an Agatston score of 100. Among those randomized to intensive treatment, for the subgroup with CAC >100, 11 of 62 individuals had events, while only 1 of 52 individuals with CAC ≤100 had an event. The multivariable HR for intensive treatment for those with CAC >100 was 0.74 (95% CI 0.46–1.20; P = 0.21), while for the subgroup with CAC ≤100, the corresponding HR was 0.08 (0.008–0.77; P = 0.03), with event rates of 39 and 4 per 1,000 person-years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that intensive glucose lowering reduces cardiovascular events in those with less extensive calcified coronary atherosclerosis.
Incidence of and risk factors for postoperative pneumonia in dogs anesthetized for diagnosis or treatment of intervertebral disk disease
Authors: Java Melissa A. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Gilley Robert S. , Long Samuel N. , Kushner Lynne I. , King Lesley G.
Published: August 2009

Objective—To determine incidence of and risk factors for postoperative pneumonia in dogs anesthetized for diagnosis or treatment of intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).

Design—Retrospective case-control study.

Animals—707 dogs that underwent general anesthesia for the diagnosis or treatment of IVDD between 1992 and 1996 or between 2002 and 2006.

Procedures—Postoperative pneumonia was diagnosed if compatible clinical signs (cough or hypoxemia) and radiographic abnormalities (alveolar infiltrates) developed within 48 hours after anesthesia. To identify risk factors for postoperative pneumonia, findings for dogs that developed postoperative pneumonia between 2002 and 2006 were compared with findings for a randomly selected control group of unaffected dogs from the same population.

Results—There were no significant differences in age, breed, body weight, sex, location of IVDD, or survival rate between the 2 time periods, but there were significant differences in the use of magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and hemilaminectomy and in the percentage of dogs that developed postoperative pneumonia in the later (4.6%) versus the earlier (0.6%) years. Significant risk factors for postoperative pneumonia included preanesthetic tetraparesis, cervical lesions, undergoing magnetic resonance imaging, undergoing > 1 anesthetic procedure, longer duration of anesthesia, and postanesthetic vomiting or regurgitation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that at this institution, the incidence of postoperative pneumonia in dogs anesthetized for diagnosis or treatment of IVDD had increased in recent years.
Calibration of Correlation Radiometers Using Pseudo-Random Noise Signals
Authors: Pérez Isaac Ramos , Bosch-Lluis Xavi , Camps Adriano , Alvarez Nereida Rodriguez , Hernandez Juan F. Marchán , Domènech Enric Valencia , Vernich Carlos , De la Rosa Sonia , Pantoja Sebastián
Published: August 2009

The calibration of correlation radiometers, and particularly aperture synthesis interferometric radiometers, is a critical issue to ensure their performance. Current calibration techniques are based on the measurement of the cross-correlation of receivers’ outputs when injecting noise from a common noise source requiring a very stable distribution network. For large interferometric radiometers this centralized noise injection approach is very complex from the point of view of mass, volume and phase/amplitude equalization. Distributed noise injection techniques have been proposed as a feasible alternative, but are unable to correct for the so-called “baseline errors” associated with the particular pair of receivers forming the baseline. In this work it is proposed the use of centralized Pseudo-Random Noise (PRN) signals to calibrate correlation radiometers. PRNs are sequences of symbols with a long repetition period that have a flat spectrum over a bandwidth which is determined by the symbol rate. Since their spectrum resembles that of thermal noise, they can be used to calibrate correlation radiometers. At the same time, since these sequences are deterministic, new calibration schemes can be envisaged, such as the correlation of each receiver’s output with a baseband local replica of the PRN sequence, as well as new distribution schemes of calibration signals. This work analyzes the general requirements and performance of using PRN sequences for the calibration of microwave correlation radiometers, and particularizes the study to a potential implementation in a large aperture synthesis radiometer using an optical distribution network.
Policy and Planning Challenges to Promote Efficient Urban Spatial Development during the Emerging Rapid Transformation in China
Authors: Ding Chengri
Published: August 2009

This paper investigates the linkage between emerging urban spatial development and institutional arrangements in China. Emerging spatial patterns, which are prevalent and sizable so that any impacts will be substantial, include dispersed employment concentration, fragmented land development, over-scaled land development, leapfrogging development, and whack-a-mole development. From the institutional point of view, these patterns are associated with decentralization, fiscal incentives for local government, land regulations, and fragmented planning system. It is concluded that these emerging spatial patterns significantly affect long term city sustainable growth and comprehensive reforms are needed to promote efficient urban spatial forms. It is further concluded that labor division between planning and markets should be reshaped in determining urban spatial growth by shifting planning to focus on zoning that provides sufficient development room in a long term and making markets to decide the timing of land development.
Knowledge of Limited Health Literacy at an Academic Health Center
Authors: Jukkala Angela , Deupree Joy P. , Graham Shannon
Published: August 2009

Background:

Health care providers' awareness and knowledge of the impact that limited health literacy has on the health care system and the individual patient was measured. In addition, the usefulness of the Limited Literacy Impact Measure (LLIM) was examined.

Methods:

Two hundred forty providers and students attending a university-sponsored presentation on health literacy were invited to participate.

Results:

Participants were most knowledgeable about the impact on patients and less knowledgeable about the impact on the health care system.

Conclusions:

Health care provider knowledge and awareness of limited health literacy continues to be a challenge. Educational programs developed for providers and patients are needed to address the health literacy crisis. Improving health literacy will improve health outcomes while reducing the use of unnecessary health care services.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(7):298–302.
Teamwork and Communication
Authors: Pfrimmer Dale
Published: August 2009

Effective teamwork and communication is critical to the delivery of safe and reliable patient care. Communication breakdowns account for the overwhelming majority of sentinel events. Effective teamwork and communication can help prevent mistakes and decrease patient risk. The implementation of simple tools and behaviors can greatly enhance patient safety and improve perceptions of teamwork.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(7):294–295.
Pharmacological Management of Type 2 Diabetes in Newly Diagnosed Older Adults
Authors: Spain Margaret , Edlund Barbara J.
Published: August 2009

There is clear evidence that effective management of type 2 diabetes includes control of elevated blood sugar, lipids, and blood pressure, along with exercise and lifestyle modifications to prevent both macrovascular and microvascular complications. However, the target goals and aggressiveness of therapy may need to be altered for older adults, depending on the presence of comorbid conditions, differences in life expectancy, and individual functional capacity. This article provides evidence-based and consensus recommendations from the American Diabetes Association and the American Geriatrics Society to guide pharmacological management of type 2 diabetes in newly diagnosed older adults.
Nursing Students' Response to Tobacco Cessation Curricula in Minnesota Baccalaureate Nursing Programs
Authors: Lenz Brenda K.
Published: August 2009

Ensuring that RNs entering the profession possess the skills necessary to provide evidence-based tobacco cessation interventions to patients can substantially increase the number of smokers who are provided with such treatments. Quantitative descriptive survey data were collected in spring 2007 from two samples: 675 baccalaureate nursing students in their senior coursework and directors of 10 Minnesota baccalaureate nursing programs. Two of 10 programs contained all items of content and these students were significantly more knowledgeable, whereas 8 of the programs did not cover the content adequately and students were less knowledgeable. Minimal clinical application was reported by students in all 10 of the programs. Essential competencies regarding health promotion for tobacco cessation need to be established. Programs need to include all three domains of learning including cognitive, skill acquisition, and attitudes or beliefs.
Nursing Pedagogy and the Intergenerational Discourse
Authors: Earle Vicki , Myrick Florence
Published: August 2009

This article examines the effects of intergenerational diversity on pedagogical practice in nursing education and highlights the need for nurse educators to engage in a critical discourse regarding the adequacy of current pedagogy in fostering an ethos that can optimize the teaching-learning process and promote ongoing learning for the future. It is evident that further research is needed to promote awareness and understanding of the expectations of today's students and to reform nursing pedagogy to accommodate the current generation of learners in colleges and universities. In this article, the context of intergenerational diversity is explored, the importance of evidenced-based practice is reinforced, and current nursing pedagogy is examined, with the intention to stimulate a philosophical discourse among nurse educators regarding fundamental values and beliefs about pedagogical practice.
Physical and mechanical characterisation of historic mortars. Application to the evaluation of the state of conservation
Authors: Magalhães A. , Veiga R.
Published: August 2009

An understanding of the physical and mechanical characteristics of historic mortars is of vital importance in the selection of repair mortars for historic buildings. As a result, a need has arisen for test methods that can be used to assess those characteristics in irregular, friable samples.The present paper discusses the results of the experimental characterization of historic Portuguese mortars. The test methods used to evaluate water resistance and compressive strength are described. The compressive strength values found for new mortars using the method proposed and the method specified in European standards are compared and the results used to draw conclusions on the potential of the new technique.The correlation between the initial degree of deterioration determined by visual inspection and the experimental data is discussed.
A STUDY ON WEANING RESULTS OF VENTILATOR-DEPENDENT PATIENTS WITH AN ARTIFICIAL NEUROMOLECULAR SYSTEM
Authors: Chen Jong-Chen , Chien Shou-Wei , Hsu Jinchyr
Published: August 2009

Ventilator has been widely used to support the breathing needs of patients, and weaning is the process of removing ventilator from them. So far there is no positive answer about whether it will be successful to wean a patient off a ventilator. It may be of help if we develop an intelligent system to assist clinicians in making such a decision. In this paper, we apply an artificial neuromolecular system (ANM system), which is a selforganizing learning system, to a database of 189 weaned patients. The ANM system is a multi-level evolutionary learning architecture that captures the gradual transformability feature of structure–function relationship embedded in biological systems. Our experiments with the model show that the integrated system achieves a satisfactory result in separating those patients who have successful weaning results from those who do not, based on the 27 parameters that may affect their weaning results. Our parameter analysis shows that most of the parameters identified as significant by the system are the same as those by clinicians, but some are not. The finding of the latter should provide clinicians another dimension of information, in particular the effectiveness of each parameter in determining weaning results for patients.
Role of color doppler in scrotal lesions
Authors: Patiala Bhardwaj
Published: August 2009

Color Doppler USG of the scrotum has been demonstrated to be useful in the diagnosis of scrotal lesions. Gray-scale USG characterizes the lesions as testicular or extratesticular and, with color Doppler and power Doppler, flow and perfusion can also be assessed. Color Doppler is particularly helpful in acute painful conditions, where it can differentiate testicular ischemia from inflammatory conditions and thus prevent unnecessary surgical explorations. With color Doppler, useful information can be gained about vascularity in testicular malignancies. Color Doppler also has high sensitivity and high specificity in the diagnosis of lesions like varicoceles.
Magnetic resonance imaging features of myxoid leiomyoma of the vagina: A case report
Authors: Scialpi Michele , Benagiano Giuseppe , Frati Sara , Piscioli Irene , Barberini Francesco , Lupattelli Luciano
Published: August 2009

We report a rare case of a voluminous vaginal myxoid leiomyoma in a 27-year-old nulliparous woman. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a mass arising from the vagina, with inhomogeneous signal intensity on spin-echo T1W and T2W images. MRI accurately defined the tissue planes between the lesion and the adjacent structures and suggested its benign nature. The mass was completely resected by means of transvaginal approach and the diagnosis of myxoid leiomyoma was confirmed histologically. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the MRI features of vaginal myxoid leiomyoma.
Technical note: CT-guided biopsy of lung masses using an automated guiding apparatus
Authors: Chellathurai Amarnath , Kanhirat Saneej , Chokkappan Kabilan , Swaminathan Thiruchendur S , Kulasekaran Nadhamuni
Published: August 2009

Automated guiding apparatuses for CT-guided biopsies are now available. We report our experience with an indigenous system to guide lung biopsies. This system gave results similar to those with the manual technique. Automated planning also appears to be technically easier, it requires fewer number of needle passes, consumes less time, and requires fewer number of check scans.
Wärmedämmende Schalung zur Energieeinsparung während der Betonerhärtung
Authors: Krause Paweł
Published: August 2009

Im Artikel werden Möglichkeiten der Anwendung von wärmedämmender Schalung beim Betonieren im Winter dargestellt. Um den Wärmestrom im untersuchten System Beton‐Wärmedämmung‐Umgebung (BWU) zu analysieren, werden die Bestimmung der korrigierten Biot‐Zahl sowie der Kennziffer der Wärmeströmungshemmung unter Berücksichtigung des vorhandenen Wärmewiderstandes vorgeschlagen.

Insulating formwork for energy conservation during concrete curing.

The paper presents application options for insulating formwork for concrete pouring in winter. In order to analyse the heat flow in the examined system consisting of concrete, thermal insulation and ambient, we propose determining the corrected Biot number and the heat flow inhibition index, taking into account the existing thermal resistance.
Innendämmung bei erhaltenswerten Fassaden – ein baukonstruktives Projektbeispiel
Authors: Holle Hans‐Jürgen
Published: August 2009

Die Sanierung eines gründerzeitlichen Wohngebäudes in Hamburg aus dem Jahre 1907 mit erhaltenswerter Fassade wurde im Rahmen des Forschungsvorhabens “Energetische Sanierung” (EnSan) des Bundesministeriums für Wirtschaft und Technologie gefördert und wissenschaftlich begleitet. Zwei baugleiche Gebäudehälften wurden mit unterschiedlichen energetischen Sanierungskonzepten und ‐standards (“EnSan‐Standard” und “Hamburger Standard”) geplant und realisiert. Es wurden Konstruktionen einschließlich der dafür erforderlichen Einbauabläufe entwickelt. Die energetischen Zielgrößen sind erreicht worden. Der Endenergieverbrauch für Beheizung wurde um 80 % auf 32 kWh/m2a gesenkt. Der Primärenergieverbrauch beträgt gemittelt für beide Gebäudehälften ca. 95 kWh/m2a.

Internal insulation of façades that are worth preserving. Example of a structural design project.

The refurbishment of a residential buildings in Hamburg built in 1907 during the Wilhelminian era with a façade that was deemed worthy of preservation was funded as part of the research project “Energy‐efficient refurbishment” (EnSan) by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Technology, which also provided scientific backup. Two identical building parts were refurbished based on different energy‐efficiency concepts and standards (“EnSan standard” and “Hamburg standard”). Structural components and associated installation procedures were developed. The energy target values were achieved. The heating energy end use was reduced by 80 % to 32 kWh/m2a. The average primary energy consumption for both building parts is approx. 95 kWh/m2a.
Experimental and Computational Studies on the Iridium Activation of Aliphatic and Aromatic CH Bonds of Alkyl Aryl Ethers and Related Molecules
Authors: Lara Patricia , Paneque Margarita , Poveda Manuel L. , Santos Laura L. , Valpuesta José E. V. , Carmona Ernesto , Moncho Salvador , Ujaque Gregori , Lledós Agustí , Álvarez Eleuterio , Mereiter Kurt
Published: August 2009

Reaction of the IrIII complex [(TpMe2)Ir(C6H5)2(N2)] (1⋅N2) with ortho‐cresol (2‐methylphenol) occurs with cleavage of the OH and two C(sp3)H bonds of the phenol and formation of the electrophilic hydride alkylidene derivative [(TpMe2)Ir(H){C(H)C6H4‐o‐O}] (2). The analogous reaction of 2‐ethylphenol gives a related product 3. Both 2 and 3 have been shown to be identical to the minor, unidentified products of the already reported reactions of 1 with anisole and phenetole, respectively. Thus, in addition to the route that leads to the known heteroatom‐stabilized hydride carbene [(TpMe2)Ir(H){C(H)OC6H4‐ o‐}] (B), anisole can react with 1 with cleavage of the OCH3 bond and formation of a new carbon–carbon bond. In contrast, only CH bond‐activation products with structures akin to B result from 1⋅N2 and 3,5‐dimethylanisole (complex 8) or 4‐fluoroanisole (9). Using anisole as a model, a computational study of the triple CH bond activation (two aliphatic CH bonds plus an ortho‐metalation reaction) that is responsible for the formation of these heteroatom‐stabilized hydride carbenes has been undertaken.
A Double Plug–Socket System Capable of Molecular Keypad Locks through Controllable Photooxidation
Authors: Jiang Wei , Han Min , Zhang Heng‐Yi , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Liu Yu
Published: August 2009

Two robust divalent complexes have been successfully constructed by using complementary rigid spacers (anthracene vs. 1,4,5,8‐naphthalenediimide (NDI)) and two pairs of [24]crown‐8 ethers and secondary dialkylammonium functionalities as binding motifs. It was demonstrated that properly selected, rigid spacers are more efficient than flexible ones for achieving strong multivalent association. This is presumably due to the preorganization of the rigid spacers, the cooperation between charge‐transfer interactions of rigid spacers, and the complexation of the binding motifs. Furthermore, the intermolecular photoinduced electron transfer (PET) between rigid spacers in these robust complexes could be switched on and off by modulating their complexation through acid–base reactions, which is reminiscent of a plug–socket system capable of electron transfer. In addition, the self‐sensitized photooxidation of the divalent host with anthracene as a spacer can be completely inhibited after complexation with the divalent guests that contain NDI as spacers. This process could also be understood by invoking intermolecular PET and could be turned on and off through acid–base reactions. The photophysical and photochemical properties of these robust complexes have been interpreted as molecular keypad locks with alarm systems. Thus, a double plug–socket system and molecular keypad locks were successfully integrated inside robust multivalent systems and then the normal molecular devices were endowed with logic functions.