bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex Liver Resections for Colorectal Metastases: Are They Safe in the Low-Volume, Resource-Poor Caribbean Setting?
Authors: Cawich Shamir O. , Thomas Dexter A. W. , Ramjit Chunilal , Bhagan Roderick , Naraynsingh Vijay
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Although many authorities suggest that major liver resections should only be carried out in high-volume specialized centres, many patients in the Caribbean do not have access to these health care systems.Presentation of a Case. A 50-year-old woman with a solitary colorectal metastasis invading the inferior vena cava underwent an extended left hepatectomy with caval resection and reconstruction. Several technical maneuvers were utilized that were suited to the resource-poor environment.Conclusion. We suggest that good outcomes can still be attained in the resource-poor, low-volume centres once dedicated and appropriately trained teams are available.
Do United States’ Teachers Know and Adhere to the National Guidelines on Asthma Management in the Classroom? A Systematic Review
Authors: Jaramillo Yudilyn , Reznik Marina
Published: February 2015

Proper asthma management in schools is important in achieving optimum asthma control in children with asthma. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has developed guidelines on classroom asthma management. We conducted a systematic review to examine teacher knowledge of the NHLBI guidelines on asthma management in the classroom. We searched PubMed and EMBASE using search terms “asthma management,” “teacher(s),” “school teacher,” and “public school.” The inclusion criteria were articles published in English from 1994 to May 2014 that focus on schools in the United States (US). From 535 titles and abstracts, 9 studies met inclusion criteria. All studies reported that school teachers did not know the policies and procedures of asthma management. Teachers relied on school nurses to handle medical emergencies. Some studies identified that lack of full‐time school nurses was a barrier to asthma management. Only one study showed directly that classroom teachers were not following the NHLBI guidelines on asthma management. Our literature review revealed that US teachers do not know the NHLBI guidelines on asthma management in the classroom. Future research should focus on interventions targeted toward training classroom teachers on asthma management as per NHLBI guidelines to ultimately improve asthma management in schools.
Insect Vectors of Rice Yellow Mottle Virus
Authors: Koudamiloro Augustin , Nwilene Francis Eegbara , Togola Abou , Akogbeto Martin
Published: February 2015

Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) is the major viral constraint to rice production in Africa. RYMV was first identified in 1966 in Kenya and then later in most African countries where rice is grown. Several studies have been conducted so far on its evolution, pathogenicity, resistance genes, and especially its dissemination by insects. Many of these studies showed that, among RYMV vectors, insects especially leaf-feeders found in rice fields are the major source of virus transmission. Many studies have shown that the virus is vectored by several insect species in a process of a first ingestion of leaf material and subsequent transmission in following feedings. About forty insect species were identified as vectors of RYMV since 1970 up to now. They were essentially the beetles, grasshoppers, and the leafhoppers. For this review, we presented the chronology of their identification. Also, the biology, ecology, host range, distribution, and caused damage of these insects were briefly summarized.
Factors Affecting the Accumulation of Curcumin in Microrhizomes ofCurcuma aromaticaSalisb
Authors: Wu Ke , Zhang Xiaoxia , Sun Shulan , Wang Xiaojing
Published: February 2015

Curcuminoids, and mainly curcumin, are potential therapeutic agents for the prevention of various diseases; however, little is known about the factors that influence their accumulation inCurcumaspecies. In this study, the effects of factors such as sucrose concentration, different ratios of 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA) andα-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), and light quality on the accumulation of curcumin and other curcuminoids inCurcuma aromaticawere investigated. Microrhizomes grown on media containing 3% sucrose produced more curcumin and other curcuminoids than those grown on higher concentrations. Moreover, when compared to other ratios of 6-BA and NAA, microrhizomes induced on 3% sucrose media supplemented with 3.0 mg/L 6-BA and 0.5 mg/L NAA produced more curcumin and other curcuminoids; however, the amount was less than in microrhizomes grown on 3% sucrose alone. We determined that a 5% sucrose medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L of 6-BA and 0.5 mg/L of NAA enhanced the levels of curcumin and curcuminoids and that exposure to red light further increased production.
An Improved Harmony Search Algorithm for Power Distribution Network Planning
Authors: Sun Wei , Chang Xingyan
Published: February 2015

Distribution network planning because of involving many variables and constraints is a multiobjective, discrete, nonlinear, and large-scale optimization problem. Harmony search (HS) algorithm is a metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the improvisation process of music players. HS algorithm has several impressive advantages, such as easy implementation, less adjustable parameters, and quick convergence. But HS algorithm still has some defects such as premature convergence and slow convergence speed. According to the defects of the standard algorithm and characteristics of distribution network planning, an improved harmony search (IHS) algorithm is proposed in this paper. We set up a mathematical model of distribution network structure planning, whose optimal objective function is to get the minimum annual cost and constraint conditions are overload and radial network. IHS algorithm is applied to solve the complex optimization mathematical model. The empirical results strongly indicate that IHS algorithm can effectively provide better results for solving the distribution network planning problem compared to other optimization algorithms.
Analytical Quality by Design: A Tool for Regulatory Flexibility and Robust Analytics
Authors: Peraman Ramalingam , Bhadraya Kalva , Padmanabha Reddy Yiragamreddy
Published: February 2015

Very recently, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a few new drug applications (NDA) with regulatory flexibility for quality by design (QbD) based analytical approach. The concept of QbD applied to analytical method development is known now as AQbD (analytical quality by design). It allows the analytical method for movement within method operable design region (MODR). Unlike current methods, analytical method developed using analytical quality by design (AQbD) approach reduces the number of out-of-trend (OOT) results and out-of-specification (OOS) results due to the robustness of the method within the region. It is a current trend among pharmaceutical industry to implement analytical quality by design (AQbD) in method development process as a part of risk management, pharmaceutical development, and pharmaceutical quality system (ICH Q10). Owing to the lack explanatory reviews, this paper has been communicated to discuss different views of analytical scientists about implementation of AQbD in pharmaceutical quality system and also to correlate with product quality by design and pharmaceutical analytical technology (PAT).
Elevated Plasma Levels of Interleukin-12p40 and Interleukin-16 in Overweight Adolescents
Authors: Lichtenauer Michael , Franz Marcus , Fritzenwanger Michael , Figulla Hans-Reiner , Gerdes Norbert , Jung Christian
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Obesity during adolescence is an increasing problem for both the individual and health care systems alike. In Western world countries, childhood adiposity has reached epidemic proportions. It is known that elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokines can be found in the plasma of obese patients. In this study, we sought to determine the relation between IL-12p40, IL-12p70, and Interleukin-16 (IL-16) in overweight adolescents.Materials and Methods. Seventy-nine male Caucasian adolescents aged 13–17 years were included in this study. Thirty-seven of them had a body mass index (BMI) above the 90th age-specific percentile. Il-12p40, IL-12p70, and IL-16 were measured from plasma using Luminex multiplex technology.Results. Both IL-12p40 and IL-16 concentrations were significantly increased in overweight subjects compared to normal weight controls (IL-12p40: 1086.6 pg/mL ± 31.7 pg/mL SEM versus 1228.6 pg/mL ± 43.5 pg/mL SEM; IL-16 494.0 pg/mL ± 29.4 pg/mL SEM versus 686.6 pg/mL ± 52.5 pg/mL SEM,P<0.05andP<0.01, resp.). No differences were found for IL-12p70.Conclusions. Based on these results, we believe that the increased levels of IL-12p40 and IL-16 are associated with an ongoing inflammatory response in obese individuals and could lead to the development of disease conditions related to obesity.
Redescription of the orb-weaving spider Gasteracantha geminata (Fabricius, 1798) (Araneae, Araneidae)
Authors: SANKARAN PRADEEP M. , JOBI MALAMEL J. , SEBASTIAN POTHALIL A.
Published: February 2015

The orb-weaving spider genus Gasteracantha Sundevall, 1833 (Araneidae) is notable for its pronounced sexual size dimorphism. Gasteracantha females are characterized by having a highly sclerotized “spiny” abdomen varying in relative size and number of spines, as well as abdomen dorsally and ventrally provided with varying numbers of sigillae (Cambridge 1879). The genus currently includes 70 described species and 31 subspecies (World Spider Catalog 2014). The Oriental species Gasteracantha geminata (Fabricius, 1798) was originally described from Ramnad (now known as Ramanathapuram) in Tamilnadu State of Southern India based on an unspecified number of female specimen(s). The female of this species has been described and illustrated several times by various authors. Its male is only known from the description of Simon (1895). Simon’s original description of the male of G. geminata was supported by two simple but beautiful and informative illustrations: a retrolateral view of the cephalothorax and a dorsal view of the abdomen (Simon 1895, figs. 886, 887). However we lack a clear and detailed description of the male genitalia. The present paper provides detailed redescription of G. geminata and illustrations of the male pedipalp.
Anolis marsupialis Taylor 1956, a valid species from southern Pacific Costa Rica (Reptilia, Squamata, Dactyloidae)
Authors: KÖHLER JOHANNES J. , POE STEVEN , RYAN MASON J. , KÖHLER GUNTHER
Published: February 2015

The examination of the holotype of Anolis marsupialis Taylor 1956 along with recently collected specimens reveals that A. marsupialis is a valid species. It differs from its closest congeners A. humilis Peters 1863 and A. quaggulus Cope 1885, in male dewlap coloration, scalation, body size, and hemipenial morphology. These findings are supported by preliminary molecular genetic analysis.
A description of the larva of Coomaniella (Coomaniella) purpurascens Baudon, 1966 and a discussion on the tribal placement of Coomaniellini Bílý, 1974 (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)
Authors: BÍLÝ SVATOPLUK , VOLKOVITSH MARK G.
Published: February 2015

A detailed description of the mature larva of Coomaniella (Coomaniella) purpurascens Baudon, 1966 and a discussion of the taxonomic position of the tribe Coomaniellini Bílý, 1974 are presented. Larva is fully illustrated including details of the mouth parts and inner structures of the proventriculus. The larval characters support the tribal status of Coomaniellini with close relations to the tribe Dicercini Gistel, 1884 in contrast with the former placement of the tribe near Anthaxiini Gory & Laporte, 1839.
Taxonomic notes on the species of the genus Anterhynchium de Saussure, 1863 (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Vietnam, with description of a new species
Authors: NGUYEN LIEN THI PHUONG
Published: February 2015

A taxonomic study on the solitary wasps in the vespid genus Anterhynchium de Saussure, 1863, from Vietnam is presented. One species previously identified as A. (Anterhynchium) abdominale abdominale (Illiger, 1802) is described as new, namely A. punctatum Nguyen, sp. nov. Antechynchium (Dirhynchium) flavolineatum flavolineatum (Smith, 1857) and A. (Dirhynchium) flavomarginatum flavomarginatum (Smith, 1852) are newly recorded from Vietnam. New synonymy is proposed for A. flavolineatum flavolineatum (Smith, 1857) =A. flavolineatum malaisei van der Vecht, 1963, syn. nov. A. coracinum van der Vecht sensu Girish Kumar (2013) is a misidentification of A. f. flavomarginatum (Smith), and the record of this species from Pakistan and India belongs to A. f. flavolineatum. A key to species of the genus from Vietnam is provided.
A new species of the genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 (Araneae: Atypidae) from Korea
Authors: LEE SUE YEON , LEE JOON-HO , YOO JUNG SUN , KIM SEUNG TAE
Published: February 2015

Worldwide, 30 species of the genus Atypus Latreille, 1804 have been recorded from the United States, Europe, Africa, south-east and far-east Asia (Platnick 2014). Atypid spiders are characterized by a male sternum with marginal ridges, a short, straight and spike-like embolus, a straight conductor and a distally widened vulva with bulbous or pyriform receptacula and with two lateral patches of pores on the genital atrium (Gertsch and Platnick 1980). Kraus and Baur (1974) utilized various taxonomic characters to distinguish between the European species, such as the segmentation of the posterior spinnerets, features of the patellar membrane, morphology of sigilla opposite coxae I and IV, and the male palpal conductor, palpal furrow and male metatarsal spines. The genus Atypus was reviewed by Schwendinger (1990) who redescribed 12 recorded species and discussed the granular texture on the male chelicerae and front legs, and the cymbial pit for distinguishing species. Among 30 Atypus spiders, 18 species are distributed in Far-East Asia; 12 species from China (Zhu et al. 2006), 5 species from Korea (Kim 1985; Namkung 1986, 2001; Kim et al. 2006), and 2 species from Japan (Bösenberg and Strand 1906; Tanikawa 2006).
Evaluations of the Spheroidal Particle Model for Describing Cloud Radar Depolarization Ratios of Ice Hydrometeors
Authors: Matrosov Sergey Y.
Published: February 2015

Information on ice cloud particle nonsphericity is important for many practical applications ranging from modeling the cloud radiation impact to remote sensing of hydrometeor microphysical properties. Scanning cloud radars, which often measure depolarization ratio as a sole polarization variable, can provide a means for retrieving this information. The applicability of a spheroidal particle model (i.e., a regular ellipsoid that has two principal axes of the same length) is evaluated for describing depolarization properties of ice particles. It is shown that this simple model, which uses an aspect ratio as a single parameter characterizing particle nonsphericity, explains reasonably well the scatter of slant 45° linear depolarization ratio (SLDR) measurements versus direct estimates of the zenith direction backscatter enhancement observed during the Storm Peak Laboratory Cloud Property Validation Experiment (StormVEx) with the scanning W-band cloud radar (SWACR). Observed SLDR elevation angle patterns are also approximated reasonably well by this shape model. It is suggested that an SLDR difference between slant and zenith radar pointing can be used for prospective remote sensing methods of inferring particle aspect ratio from cloud radar depolarization measurements. Depending on mass–size relations, the value of this difference corresponding to median zenith reflectivity enhancement observed during StormVEx relates to aspect ratios of about 0.5 ± 0.2, which generally agrees with typical aspect ratios of ice particles. Expected aspect ratio retrieval uncertainties within the spheroidal shape model and the use of different types of radar depolarization ratio measurements are discussed. A correction for estimated zenith direction reflectivity enhancements due to particle nonsphericity is suggested.
Observations of a Nondeveloping Tropical Disturbance in the Western North Pacific during TCS-08 (2008)
Authors: Penny Andrew B. , Harr Patrick A. , Bell Michael M.
Published: February 2015

Large uncertainty still remains in determining whether a tropical cloud cluster will develop into a tropical cyclone. During The Observing System Research and Predictability Experiment (THORPEX) Pacific Asian Regional Campaign (T-PARC)/Tropical Cyclone Structure-2008 (TCS-08) field experiment, over 50 tropical cloud clusters were monitored for development, but only 4 developed into a tropical cyclone. One nondeveloping tropical disturbance (TCS025) was closely observed for potential formation during five aircraft research missions, which provided an unprecedented set of observations pertaining to the large-scale and convective environments of a nondeveloping system.

The TCS025 disturbance was comprised of episodic convection that occurred in relation to the diurnal cycle along the eastern extent of a broad low-level trough. The upper-level environment was dominated by two cyclonic cells in the tropical upper-tropospheric trough (TUTT) north of the low-level trough in which the TCS025 circulation was embedded. An in-depth examination of in situ observations revealed that the nondeveloping circulation was asymmetric and vertically misaligned, which led to larger system-relative flow on the mesoscale. Persistent environmental vertical wind shear and horizontal shearing deformation near the circulation kept the system from becoming better organized and appears to have allowed low equivalent potential temperature () air originating from one of the TUTT cells to the north (upshear) to impact the thermodynamic environment of TCS025. This in turn weakened subsequent convection that might otherwise have improved alignment and contributed to the transition of TCS025 to a tropical cyclone.
Working for two bosses: Student interns as constrained labour in China
Authors: Smith Chris , Chan Jenny
Published: February 2015

Based on interviews with students and teachers at one electronics company, we analyse the use of student interns to do regular manufacturing work in China. We argue that student workers need to be seen as a distinct category of constrained labour; part of a growing insecure workforce in China. We find that students enrolled in vocational schools are moved into internships, without their consent, to suit the needs of employers. This results in a misalignment between interns and their area of study that invalidates the basic principle of vocational education, which is to combine theory and practice within a sector or occupationally-focused education programme. Teachers in vocational schools follow their students into the factory and become ‘teacher-supervisors’, receiving a second salary for co-managing the utilization of student interns’ labour power. Thus, within such an unfree labour regime, student workers are subject to dual control in the workplace from managerial and teacher-supervisors.
Fe3+/Al3+ partitioning between tetrahedral and octahedral sites in dioctahedral smectites
Authors: Decarreau A. , Petit S.
Published: February 2015

The distribution of Al3+ and Fe3+ between octahedral and tetrahedral sites of dioctahedral smectites was shown to be controlled by a partition coefficient Kd(4/6) = [(Fe3+)4×(Al3+)6]/[(Fe3+)6×(Al3+)4]. The Kd(4/6) value is near 0.006 for natural dioctahedral smectites, formed between 2 and ~100°C, and near 0.0174 for smectites synthesized at 200°C. These Kd(4/6) values, obtained from both chemical and spectroscopic data, were consistent with those calculated using the ionic radii of cations and Brice’s model (Brice, 1975). The partition coefficient approach explained well why for natural and synthetic dioctahedral smectites no tetrahedral Fe3+ is detected when the total Fe3+ content is below 3 atoms per unit cell (24 oxygen atoms).
Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) allows patient-ventilator synchrony during pediatric noninvasive ventilation: a crossover physiological study
Authors: Ducharme-Crevier Laurence , Beck Jennifer , Essouri Sandrine , Jouvet Philippe , Emeriaud Guillaume
Published: February 2015

Introduction

The need for intubation after a noninvasive ventilation (NIV) failure is frequent in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). One reason is patient-ventilator asynchrony during NIV. Neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) is a mode of ventilation controlled by the patient’s neural respiratory drive. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and tolerance of NIV-NAVA in children and to evaluate its impact on synchrony and respiratory effort.

Methods

This prospective, physiologic, crossover study included 13 patients requiring NIV in the PICU of Sainte-Justine’s Hospital from October 2011 to May 2013. Patients were successively ventilated in conventional NIV as prescribed by the physician in charge (30 minutes), in NIV-NAVA (60 minutes), and again in conventional NIV (30 minutes). Electrical activity of the diaphragm (EAdi) and airway pressure were simultaneously recorded to assess patient-ventilator synchrony.

Results

NIV-NAVA was feasible and well tolerated in all patients. One patient asked to stop the study because of anxiety related to the leak-free facial mask. Inspiratory trigger dys-synchrony and cycling-off dys-synchrony were significantly shorter in NIV-NAVA versus initial and final conventional NIV periods (both P <0.05). Wasted efforts were also decreased in NIV-NAVA (all values expressed as median and interquartile values) (0 (0 to 0) versus 12% (4 to 20) and 6% (2 to 22), respectively; P <0.01). As a whole, total time spent in asynchrony was reduced to 8% (6 to 10) in NIV-NAVA, versus 27% (19 to 56) and 32% (21 to 38) in conventional NIV before and after NIV-NAVA, respectively (P =0.05).

Conclusion

NIV-NAVA is feasible and well tolerated in PICU patients and allows improved patient-ventilator synchronization. Larger controlled studies are warranted to evaluate the clinical impact of these findings.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02163382. Registered 9 June 2014.
Quasi-partial b-metric spaces and some related fixed point theorems
Authors: Gupta Anuradha , Gautam Pragati
Published: February 2015

In this paper, the quasi-partial b-metric space is defined and general fixed point theorems on this space are discussed with examples.
Anatomical examination of the fibula: Digital imaging study for osseointegrated implant installation
Authors: Ide Yoshiaki , Matsunaga Satoru , Harris Jeffrey , Connell Daniel O’ , Seikaly Hadi , Wolfaardt Johan
Published: February 2015

Background

Free vascularized fibular flaps are commonly used in jaw reconstruction. CT scan images of the fibula are used in digital planning of jaw reconstruction. In order to fully describe the anatomy of the fibula, an imaging study of the fibula was undertaken. The purpose of the present study was to examine the anatomical structure of the fibula using patient CT images.

Methods

The CT scan images of fibulae of 20 patients were used for the study. The results of the analysis showed that, of the widths, the anterior border of the fibula to the posterior surface was the largest dimension. The shape type analysis showed that the triangular type was most prominent near the head of the fibula, and the irregular type was most prominent towards the lateral malleolus.

Results

The results of height and width related to the long axis of implant installation showed that the width of the central section was the largest. With respect to the length of available bone volume, the length near the lateral malleolus was larger than that near the head of the fibula. The results showed that there were significant differences in size between male and female fibulae.

Conclusion

The present study provides a CT scan based analysis of the anatomy of the fibula. Important information for the optimal site of installation of osseointegrated implants in fibular free flap reconstructions is also provided.
Challenges and opportunities for fractured rock imaging using 3D cross-borehole electrical resistivity
Authors: Robinson Judith , Johnson Timothy , Slater Lee
Published: February 2015

There is an increasing need to characterize discrete fractures away from boreholes to better define fracture distributions and monitor solute transport. We performed a 3D evaluation of static and time-lapse cross-borehole electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) data sets from a limestone quarry in which flow and transport are controlled by a bedding-plane feature. Ten boreholes were discretized using an unstructured tetrahedral mesh, and 2D panel measurements were inverted for a 3D distribution of conductivity. We evaluated the benefits of 3D versus 2.5D inversion of ERT data in fractured rock while including the use of borehole regularization disconnects (BRDs) and borehole conductivity constraints. High-conductivity halos (inversion artifacts) surrounding boreholes were removed in static images when BRDs and borehole conductivity constraints were implemented. Furthermore, applying these constraints focused transient changes in conductivity resulting from solute transport on the bedding plane, providing a more physically reasonable model for conductivity changes associated with solute transport at this fractured rock site. Assuming bedding-plane continuity between fractures identified in borehole televiewer data, we discretized a planar region between six boreholes and applied a fracture regularization disconnect (FRD). Although the FRD appropriately focused conductivity changes on the bedding plane, the conductivity distribution within the discretized fracture was nonunique and dependent on the starting homogeneous model conductivity. Synthetic studies performed to better explain field observations showed that inaccurate electrode locations in boreholes resulted in low-conductivity halos surrounding borehole locations. These synthetic studies also showed that the recovery of the true conductivity within an FRD depended on the conductivity contrast between the host rock and fractures. Our findings revealed that the potential exists to improve imaging of fractured rock through 3D inversion and accurate modeling of boreholes. However, deregularization of localized features can result in significant electrical conductivity artifacts, especially when representing features with a high degree of spatial uncertainty.
A seismic vertical vibrator driven by linear synchronous motors
Authors: Noorlandt Rik , Drijkoningen Guy , Dams Johan , Jenneskens Rob
Published: February 2015

A linear synchronous motor (LSM) is an electric motor that can produce large controllable forces and is therefore suitable as a driving engine for a seismic vibrator. This motor consists of two independent elements, a magnet track and a coil track, allowing practically unlimited motor displacements. This makes the LSM very suitable for expanding the source frequency band to the lower frequencies in which larger strokes are needed. In contrast to hydraulic engines, the LSM performs equally well over the whole frequency range, making possible a smaller amount of signal distortion, especially at the low frequencies. To find the feasibility of an LSM-driven vibrator, we successfully designed and built a multi-LSM prototype vibrator of some 1200 kg. We addressed the synchronization between the individual motor tracks and the different motors. To lower the energy consumption, a spring mechanism was implemented that delivered the force needed to lift the vibrator mass to its neutral position. The resonance belonging to this spring mechanism was successfully suppressed with the help of a position feedback control that also suppressed the temperature effects. The seismic data acquired in the field tests proved that the prototype LSM vibrator acted very well as a seismic source. It has no trouble generating pseudorandom sweeps, and even given its limited size, it generated signals within the low-frequency regime, down to 2 Hz, rather easily.
How frequency dependency of Q affects spectral ratio estimates
Authors: Gurevich Boris , Pevzner Roman
Published: February 2015

Because seismic amplitudes can be affected by purely geometrical factors, attenuation is often estimated not from amplitudes but from the evolution of the amplitude spectra of the waveform. Such estimation methods (e.g., the spectral ratio method and the centroid frequency shift method) assume that the quality factor [Formula: see text] is constant (independent of frequency) in the frequency band of the signal. If this assumption is violated, then [Formula: see text] estimates become biased. In particular, when the frequency dependency of [Formula: see text] is a power law [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text] is systematically under- or overestimated by a factor of [Formula: see text]. The errors are larger for larger values of [Formula: see text], particularly when [Formula: see text] is negative. In particular, if [Formula: see text], the frequency content of the signal does not change, and [Formula: see text] is estimated to be infinite, regardless of the true value of [Formula: see text]. To avoid these systematic errors, it is necessary to monitor the evolution of frequency content and amplitude with distance. Zero-offset vertical seismic profile data from the North West Shelf of Australia revealed the decay of the signal amplitude with depth that can be explained by a combination of intrinsic constant [Formula: see text] and a frequency-independent factor, which in turn is caused by the geometric spreading plus transmission loss due to variations of acoustic impedance on a scale larger than the dominant wavelength in the signal.
Reforming the culture of healthcare: the case for intelligent kindness
Authors: Campling Penelope
Published: February 2015

There has been increasing interest in the culture of healthcare in the light of the two reports by Robert Francis into the care at Mid Staffordshire. This editorial encourages a comprehensive exploration of the conditions that promote a benign caring culture and make outbreaks of cruel neglect and abuse of patients less likely. Creating and sustaining such a culture is dependent on being honest and realistic about the forces that threaten to undermine it. The editorial argues that being able to confidently articulate the positive values that should define healthcare culture is particularly important at this time. The case is made for a conscious focus on the concept of intelligent kindness.
The Dutch Techcentre for Life Sciences: Enabling data-intensive life science research in the Netherlands
Authors: Eijssen Lars , Evelo Chris T. , Kok Ruben , Mons Barend , Hooft Rob W.W. ,   and the other founding members of DTL Data (see Acknowledgements)
Published: February 2015

We describe a new national organisation in scientific research that facilitates life scientists with technologies and technological expertise in an era where new projects often are data-intensive, multi-disciplinary, and multi-site. The Dutch Techcentre for Life Sciences (DTL, www.dtls.nl) is run as a lean not-for-profit organisation of which research organisations (both academic and industrial) are paying members. The small staff of the organisation undertakes a variety of tasks that are necessary to perform or support modern academic research, but that are not easily undertaken in a purely academic setting. DTL also represents the Netherlands in the ELIXIR ESFRI, and the office supports this task. The organisation is still being fine-tuned and this will probably continue over time, as it is crucial for this kind of organisation to adapt to a constantly changing environment. However, already being underway for several years on the path to professionalisation, our experiences can benefit researchers in other fields or other countries setting up similar initiatives.
Biosphere as semiosphere: Variations on Lotman
Authors: Markoš Anton
Published: February 2015

The analogy between semiosphere (world of cultures) and biosphere (world of life), coined by J. Lotman, is a courageous attempt to interconnect two seemingly incompatible worlds. In congruence with his view, I would like to convince the reader that the only possible general definition of life is “a system born, endowed with semiosis, with history”. Such a view requires considering biosphere and semiosphere as coextensive, which requires merging the cultural, scientific, historical, and linguistic approaches into a coherent whole.
What is the main challenge for contemporary semiotics?
Authors: Kull Kalevi , Velmezova Ekaterina
Published: February 2015

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Metric Subregularity of Multifunctions: First and Second Order Infinitesimal Characterizations
Authors: Ngai Huynh Van , Tinh Phan Nhat
Published: February 2015

Metric subregularity and regularity of multifunctions are fundamental notions in variational analysis and optimization. Using the concept of strong slope, in this paper we first establish a criterion for metric subregularity of multifunctions between metric spaces. Next, we use a combination of abstract coderivatives and contingent derivatives to derive verifiable first order conditions ensuring metric subregularity of multifunctions between Banach spaces. Then using second order approximations of convex multifunctions, we establish a second order condition for metric subregularity of mixed smooth-convex constraint systems, which generalizes a result established recently by Gfrerer [Gfrerer H (2011) First order and second order characterizations of metric subregularity and calmness of constraint set mapping. SIAM J. Optim. 21(4):1439–1474].
Novos registros de algas verdes cocoides (Chlorophyceae, Chlorophyta) para o estado da Bahia e para o Brasil
Authors: Ramos Geraldo José Peixoto , Bicudo Carlos Eduardo de Mattos , Moura Carlos Wallace do Nascimento
Published: February 2015

Twenty-three taxa of coccoid green algae were identified from samples collected in the Marimbus-Iraquara Environmental Protection Area, Chapada Diamantina, Bahia state. Amongst them, 19 are reported for the first time to Bahia state and four are new reports to Brazil: Coenocystis planctonica var. planctonica, C. planctonica var. hercynica, Palmodictyon lobatum and Dispora crucigenioides. This is the first confirmed record of the genus Palmodictyon to the Brazilian territory.
Management of Intellectual Property Rights in academia: The Estonian and Swedish perspectives
Authors: Kelli Aleksei , Mets Tõnis , Jonsson Lars
Published: February 2015

The objective of this research paper is to assess the impact of intellectual property (IP) ownership regimes (professor’s privilege vs institutional ownership) on the knowledge transfer and academia–industry collaboration. One of the aims is also to define the advantages and challenges of both ownership regimes and different reward policies. The article analyses IP management systems at Uppsala University and the University of Tartu. Management of IP rights is not a thing in itself and its functioning and effectiveness cannot be evaluated without understanding its objectives. The basic idea behind the establishment of IP management systems in academia is to support academia–industry collaboration, which should result in increased welfare in a country and region.
Soziologie des Körpers
Authors: Gugutzer Robert
Published: February 2015

Die leicht zugängliche deutschsprachige Einführung in die Soziologie des Körpers liegt nun in einer vollständig überarbeiteten und erweiterten 5. Auflage vor. Sie thematisiert den menschlichen Körper als gesellschaftliches Phänomen und fragt, inwiefern der Körper als Produkt und Produzent von Gesellschaft zu verstehen ist. Dazu skizziert Robert Gugutzer die Geschichte des Körpers in der Soziologie von seiner absent presence bei den Klassikern bis zum jüngsten body turn. Darüber hinaus präsentiert er zentrale soziologische Perspektiven auf den Körper, stellt wichtige körpersoziologische Aufgabenfelder sowie »Leib«, »Körper« und »Verkörperung« als soziologische Grundbegriffe vor.
Eine Amerikanerin in Ostberlin
Authors: Klemm Sibylle
Published: February 2015

Die außergewöhnliche Biografie Edith Andersons liest sich wie ein Roman des Kalten Krieges. Die Amerikanerin lebte von 1947 bis 1999 in Ostberlin. Als Übersetzerin, Journalistin, Autorin und vor allem als Vermittlerin initiierte und pflegte sie auf vielfältige Weise den kulturellen Austausch zwischen der DDR und den USA. Sibylle Klemms erste ausführliche Untersuchung des Wirkens von Amerikanerinnen und Amerikanern in der DDR zeigt eine andere Seite des Kalten Krieges: Anderson versetzte ihre Umwelt über Systemgrenzen hinweg in produktive Unruhe und scheute sich nicht vor eigenständigen, radikal-kritischen und bisweilen widersprüchlichen Standpunkten - als Amerikanerin, Kommunistin, Jüdin und Feministin.
Popular Receptions of Archaeology
Authors: Duesterberg Susanne
Published: February 2015

Popular archaeology is a heterogeneous phenomenon: Focusing on the German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, Egyptian mummies, and the ruin complex Great Zimbabwe in fictional and factual texts, Susanne Duesterberg analyses the popular reception of archaeology in Victorian and Edwardian Britain. She offers an interdisciplinary and comparative view on the reception of the different archaeologies, reflecting contemporary sociocultural concerns in connection with identity formation. With its focus on popular culture as well as identity and memory studies, the book appeals to both a general public and experts from various disciplines.
Zigeunerkulturen im Wandel
Authors: Marx Tobias
Published: February 2015

In seiner ethnologischen Studie zu Roma-/Zigeunereliten bricht Tobias Marx mit der herkömmlichen Perspektive auf Roma und Zigeuner in den Ländern des Balkanraums. Durch die Verschmelzung historischer und kultureller Aspekte, sozialpädagogischer und ethnologischer Perspektiven sowie neuen und reichen Datenmaterials kann er zeigen, wie wichtig historische Fakten sind, um kulturelle Phänomene zu verstehen. Der Roma-Elite in Bulgarien und Mazedonien lässt er viel Raum, um ihre Meinungen über Herkunft und Zukunft, Integration und Diskriminierung, Anpassung und Reflexion darzulegen. Das Buch spiegelt die Engstirnigkeit institutioneller Hoffnungen auf einen »Modellzigeuner« ebenso wider wie die Unsinnigkeit integrationspolitischer Blicke durch eine »Romaschablone«.
Development of teaching expertise viewed through the Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition
Authors: Lyon Lucinda J
Published: February 2015

This study was designed to explore development of skill acquisition in dental education, utilizing the Dreyfus and Dreyfus continuum. By identifying what skill progression may be recognized in the expert dental educator; and what experiences appear to influence this growth, the knowledge gained may inform more efficient,  effective faculty support, development and life-long learning. Employing a qualitative approach, individual interviews were conducted with experienced educators and analyzed. Open coding of responses revealed that skill acquisition necessary to good teaching, as expressed by these experienced educators, reflects common themes and a learning curve similar to that noted by Dreyfus and Dreyfus and other investigators. In addition to supporting knowledge and technique development, dental faculty described working to share with students a wide range of non-cognitive competencies such as professionalism, communication, and an ethic of care and service. Findings increase understanding of teaching skill acquisition in dental education and may help provide support for health care faculty who desire to become excellent educators.
The Relationship between cumulative credits and student learning outcomes: A cross-sectional assessment
Authors: Thonney Teresa , Montgomery Joe C.
Published: February 2015

This article relates the efforts of faculty at one community college to define standards for achievement of two SLOs (critical thinking and effective communication) and to gather and analyze evidence of how well students meet those standards. Faculty from 13 disciplines assessed writing samples from 264 students. We found that, in general, students with more credits outperformed those with fewer credits. However, many students at every level demonstrated poor information literacy skills, indicating an area for curriculum improvement.
AKTIVITAS INULINASE OLEH Pichia manshurica DAN FUSAN F4 PADA FERMENTASI BATCH DENGAN UMBI DAHLIA (Dahlia sp) SEBAGAI SUBSTRAT
Authors: Wijanarka Wijanarka , Soetarto Endang Sutariningsih , Dewi Kumala , Indrianto Ari
Published: February 2015

ACTIVITY OF INULINASE OF Pichia Manshuria AND FUSAN F4 ON BATCH FERMENTATION UDING DAHLIA TUBER (Dahlia sp) AS A SUBSTRATE. A dahlia tuber is one of the common inulin rich crops. Inulin is formed by units of fructans, which are polymers of D-fructose. Inulinases (EC 3.2.1.7) catalyze the hydrolysis of inulin, producing fructooligosaccharides (FOS), inulooligosaccharides (IOS), pulullan, acetone, butanol and sorbitol, therefore dahlia tubers are used as growth media. The inulin hydrolyzing activity has been reported from various microbial strains Pichia manshurica and Fusan F4 which is the result of fusion protoplast. The objective of this study was to determine the activity of inulinase Pichia manshurica and Fusan F4 on the substrate dahlia tubers. Fusan F4 to increase inulinase activity compared with Pichia manshurica and to investigate the kinetics of specific growth rate (μ) and time double (g) from of Pichia manshurica and Fusan F4. The results showed that the exponential phase occurs at 0-12 hour without a lag phase. P. manshurica has a specific growth rate (μ) of 0.18/hour with time double (g) 3.90 hours and the inulinase enzyme activity of 0.56 IU, while for Fusan F4 consecutive has a value μ of 0.20/hour, g of 3.49 hours and the activity of 0.69 IU. The conclusion of this research is to improve Fusan F4 inulinase activity and the ability has to be better than the Pichia manshurica.Umbi dahlia merupakan salah satu umbi yang mengandung inulin. Inulin merupakan polimer fruktan yang dapat dipecah oleh enzim inulinase (E.C. 3.2.1.7) menjadi fruktosa. Fruktosa merupakan bahan baku dasar untuk pembuatan FOS, IOS, pulullan, aseton dan sorbitol, oleh karena itu umbi dahlia digunakan sebagai media pertumbuhan. Enzim inulinase ini secara indigenous dimiliki oleh Pichia manshurica dan Fusan F4 yang merupakan hasil fusi protoplas.Tujuan  penelitian ini adalah  untuk mengetahui aktivitas inulinase Pichia manshurica dan Fusan F4 pada substrat umbi dahlia, Fusan F4 mampu meningkatkan aktivitas inulinase dibandingkan dengan Pichia manshurica serta untuk mengetahui kinetika kecepatan pertumbuhan specifik (µ) dan waktu generasi (g) Pichia manshurica dan Fusan F4. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa fase  eksponensial terjadi pada jam ke-0 sampai jam ke-12 tanpa diikuti fase lag, Pichia manshurica mempunyai kecepatan pertumbuhan specific (µ)  sebesar 0,18/jam dengan waktu generasi (g) 3,90 jam dan aktivitas enzim inulinase yang dihasilkan sebesar 0,56 IU, sedangkan untuk fusan F4 secara berturut-turut mempunyai nilai µ sebesar 0,20/jam, g sebesar 3,49 jam dan aktivitas sebesar 0,69 IU. Kesimpulan dari penelitian ini adalah Fusan F4 mampu meningkatkan aktivitas inulinase dan mempunyai kemampuan lebih baik dibanding dengan Pichia manshurica.
Update of D-dimer testing1)
Authors: Rosler Alexander Eduard , Orth Matthias
Published: February 2015

D-dimer concentrations are elevated in a variety of clinical situations with hypercoagulability, such as venous thromboembolism (VTE), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), ischemic cardiopathy, stroke, acute aortic dissection, malignomas, pregnancy, after surgery, traumas, and burns. D-dimer testing has become an essential tool for the diagnosis of VTE and pulmonary embolism because of its high negative predictive value, especially when used in conjunction with a clinical pretest score. D-dimer testing can be used for the diagnosis of DIC and other thrombotic diseases. It is also helpful for risk stratification in coronary artery disease, in first and recurrent thrombotic events, and for the timing of the duration of oral anticoagulation after a first episode of VTE. The use of D-dimer testing is limited in certain clinical conditions in which elevated D-dimer concentrations render the test unsuitable for the detection of acute thrombotic events.
Androgene und kardiovaskuläres Risiko/Androgens and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Lerchbaum Elisabeth
Published: February 2015

Bei Männern kommt es mit zunehmendem Alter zu einer Abnahme des Androgenspiegels. Zurzeit ist unklar, ob es sich hierbei um einen pathologischen Prozess oder einen physiologischen Alterungsvorgang handelt. Jedenfalls ist der männliche Hypogonadismus mit ungünstigen Konsequenzen verbunden, wie z.B. Abnahme der Knochendichte und Muskelmasse, Zunahme der Fettmasse und der Prävalenz von Typ 2 Diabetes mellitus und des metabolischen Syndroms. Auch hinsichtlich Mortalität wirken sich niedrige Androgenspiegel bei Männern sehr ungünstig aus. Eine Testosteronsupplementierung sollte bei Männern mit laborchemisch diagnostizierten niedrigen Androgenen sowie klinischen Zeichen eines Hypogonadismus durchgeführt werden. Bei prämenopausalen Frauen ist eine Hyperandrogenämie mit einem ungünstigen kardiovaskulären Risikoprofil verbunden. Die häufigste Ursache hierfür ist das polycystische Ovar-Syndrom (PCOS). Vom PCOS betroffene Frauen leiden neben dem Hyperandrogenismus an Fertilitätsproblem sowie metabolischen Störungen wie Insulinresistenz, zentraler Adipositas und Dyslipidämie. Bei postmenopausalen Frauen kommt es physiologisch zu einem Absinken des Androgenspiegels. Auch bei postmenopausalen Frauen sind hohe Androgenspiegel mit Insulinresistenz und Typ 2 Diabetes mellitus (T2DM) verbunden, der Zusammenhang mit Mortalität ist hingegen unklar. Auch der Stellenwert einer Androgensupplementierung bei postmenopausalen Frauen mit Hypoandrogenämie ist aktuell unklar.
Evaluation von mikroskopischen Systemen zur Erstellung automatisierter Blutbilder/Evaluation of computer assisted digital microscopes for evaluation of blood films
Authors: Nebe Thomas , Ossendorf Manfred , Stamminger Gudrun , Jansen Henk , Zerfaß Thorsten
Published: February 2015

Es gelangen zunehmend automatisierte Mikroskope mit automatischer Zellklassifikation von panoptisch gefärbten Blutausstrichen zum klinischen Einsatz, weshalb eine kritische Bewertung notwendig erscheint. Es wurden im Rahmen von drei Studien die zwei am weitesten entwickelten Systeme mit einem Hämatologieanalyzer, dem manuellen mikroskopischen Differentialblutbild und einem immunologischen Differentialblutbild verglichen. Die unterschiedliche Behandlung von Kernschatten führt zu den größten Diskrepanzen gefolgt von unterschiedlichen Klassifikationssystemen v.a. bei Lymphozyten und der Beurteilung von Erythrozyten und Thrombozyten. Der Einsatz dieser Geräte im Rahmen einer hämatologischen Stufendiagnostik wird diskutiert. Da die manuelle Beurteilung an niedrigen Zellzahlen eine fragliche Referenzmethode darstellt, wurden auch das automatisierte Differentialblutbild an großen Blutbildautomaten und ein immunologisches Differentialblut zum Vergleich herangezogen.