bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Persistent Pain in Older Adults: The MOBILIZE Boston Study
Authors: Stewart Carrie , Leveille Suzanne G. , Shmerling Robert H. , Samelson Elizabeth J. , Bean Jonathan F. , Schofield Pat
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To describe the prevalence of pharmacological (PS) and nonpharmacological (NPS) pain management approaches used by older adults with persistent pain and to identify characteristics associated with use of these approaches.

Design

Population‐based cohort.

Setting

Urban and suburban communities in the Boston, Massachusetts, area.

Participants

Seven hundred sixty‐five adults aged 64 and older underwent a home interview and clinic examination. Those reporting any persistent pain were included in this analysis (N = 599).

Measurements

All prescription and nonprescription medications were recorded during the home interview. NPS modalities for pain management were assessed using a modification of the Pain Management Inventory. The baseline assessment included extensive measures of pain, health, and functioning.

Results

More than one‐third (37.5%) of participants reported using both PS and NPS modalities. Thirty‐one percent reported use of NPS modalities alone, and 11.5% used PS modalities alone. NPS modalities (68.4%) were reported more frequently than PS modalities (49%). Women (odds ratio (OR) = 2.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.26–3.82), individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OR = 3.07, 95% CI = 1.6–5.9), and individuals with moderate to severe pain (OR = 5.02, 95% CI = 2.23–11.28) were more likely to report combined use of PS and NPS modalities. Characteristics associated with individual NPS modalities varied greatly.

Conclusion

Only one‐third of older adults with persistent pain reported pain management strategies consistent with current guidelines. Further research is required to understand reasons behind choices, barriers to adherence, and the benefits of multiple modalities that older adults with persistent pain use.
Risk of Large‐Scale Evacuation Based on the Effectiveness of Rescue Strategies Under Different Crowd Densities
Authors: Wang Jinghong , Lo Siuming , Wang Qingsong , Sun Jinhua , Mu Honglin
Published: November 2012

Crowd density is a key factor that influences the moving characteristics of a large group of people during a large‐scale evacuation. In this article, the macro features of crowd flow and subsequent rescue strategies were considered, and a series of characteristic crowd densities that affect large‐scale people movement, as well as the maximum bearing density when the crowd is extremely congested, were analyzed. On the basis of characteristic crowd densities, the queuing theory was applied to simulate crowd movement. Accordingly, the moving characteristics of the crowd and the effects of typical crowd density—which is viewed as the representation of the crowd's arrival intensity in front of the evacuation passageways—on rescue strategies was studied. Furthermore, a “risk axle of crowd density” is proposed to determine the efficiency of rescue strategies in a large‐scale evacuation, i.e., whether the rescue strategies are able to effectively maintain or improve evacuation efficiency. Finally, through some rational hypotheses for the value of evacuation risk, a three‐dimensional distribution of the evacuation risk is established to illustrate the risk axle of crowd density. This work aims to make some macro, but original, analysis on the risk of large‐scale crowd evacuation from the perspective of the efficiency of rescue strategies.
Porous Ceramics by Photopolymerization with Terpene–Acrylate Vehicles
Authors: Tomeckova Vladislava , Halloran John W.
Published: November 2012

A novel terpene–acrylate photopolymerizable vehicle was used to fabricate porous polymer‐ceramic composites and sintered porous ceramics. The vehicle consists of camphene, camphor and a diacrylate monomer. Alumina or silica suspensions were mixed above the melting point of the terpene. Upon cooling, the terpene crystallized from the solution as particle‐free dendrites, with the powder and liquid monomer in the interdendritic spaces. The monomer could subsequently be solidified by photopolymerization. The rheological behavior is reported for ceramic suspensions in the molten terpene–monomer solution. The photopolymerization cure depth versus energy dose is reported for silica and alumina systems. The microstructure of the porous solid is characterized for systems with camphor/camphene and menthol as terpene. The structure of the dendritic porosity is compared as a function of powder volume fraction, for particles smaller or larger than the dendrite arm spacing.
Information and consumer perception of the “organic” attribute in fresh fruits and vegetables
Authors: Smed Sinne
Published: November 2012

Using a double hurdle model on panel data from 3,200 Danish households (monthly observations for 2002–2007), we study the effects of health‐related media information on the demand for organic fruit and vegetables. We find that “negative” information about pesticides contained in conventional fruit and vegetables mainly influences the probability of a consumer entering the organic market, not the quantities consumed by households that are already active on the organic market. “Positive” information that links health and the consumption of organic food influences both steps of the decision process. Our dataset includes information about consumers’ media habits, which allows us to disentangle the direct effects of media information from the indirect effects of this information as it is disseminated through the population. Our results suggest that directly obtained information is the main type of information influencing consumers, while information loadings by dissemination through the population have almost no effect on consumption.
Visuospatial asymmetry in dual‐task performance after subacute stroke
Authors: van Kessel Marlies E. , van Nes Ilse J. W. , Geurts Alexander C. H. , Brouwer Wiebo H. , Fasotti Luciano
Published: November 2012

Various authors have referred to an association between neglect and non‐spatial components of attention. It has been suggested that an increase in attentional load could exacerbate neglect symptoms and reveal subtle, well‐compensated neglect. In the present study, 21RHand 22LHsubacute stroke patients and 20 controls performed a computerized single‐detection task (CVRT) and a dual task (CVRT‐D) combining the detection task with a driving simulation task. Omissions, reaction times (RTs) andRTasymmetries were analysed to investigate the influence of increasing attentional load on neglect symptoms.RTasymmetries were most pronounced inRHpatients. Although a clear increase inRTasymmetries betweenCVRTandCVRT‐Dwas observed, the amount of increase did not differ between both patient groups. Within both patient groups, correlations betweenRTasymmetries and ipsilesionalRTs as a measure of general attention were significant in the single task but not in the dual task, indicating that increased attentional load may result in different degrees of lateralized and general attentional problems. Half of the patients with neglect on theBIT(Behavioural Inattention Test) showed increasedRTasymmetries fromCVRTtoCVRT‐D. Moreover, twoLHandRHpatients without neglect symptoms on theBITandCVRTshowed distinctively increased asymmetries in theCVRT‐D, fostering the idea of an emergence of subtle neglect under increased attentional load. Dual‐task performance may draw attention towards patients who, without obvious signs of neglect, may show visuospatial attention deficits in complex situations.
Alteration of affective Theory of Mind in amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Poletti Michele , Bonuccelli Ubaldo
Published: November 2012

The concept of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) concerns a population of older individuals at high risk of developing probable Alzheimer's disease (AD). Impairments of the cognitive component of Theory of Mind (ToM), that is the inference about other people's beliefs, have been well documented in AD; on the contrary, controversial findings have been reported on the affective component of ToM (inference about other's feelings), a process mainly based on medial portions of the prefrontal cortex. The current study aimed at evaluating the affective component of ToM in aMCI subjects. Twenty aMCI subjects and 20 age‐matched healthy controls (HC) underwent a standard neuropsychological assessment and the assessment of affective ToM with the full 36‐item version of reading the mind in the eyes (RME). Although aMCI subjects had formal impaired performances only in memory tasks, HC outperformed aMCI subjects in several cognitive tasks, including also the RME (mean RME scores 21.7 ± 3.0 vs. 17.0 ± 3.8%; 60.3% of correct answers vs. 47.2%). The lower RME performance of aMCI patients provides the first empirical evidence that aMCI may be associated with difficulties in tasks of affective ToM, in accordance with recent findings of early difficulties of aMCI patients in other processes that are mainly dependent on the medial prefrontal cortex, such as reversal learning and decision making under ambiguity. Findings of the current study need further empirical confirmation in larger samples of aMCI patients and also the investigation of other MCI subtypes is needed.
Volatiles Profiling in Medicinal Licorice Roots Using Steam Distillation and Solid‐Phase Microextraction (SPME) Coupled to Chemometrics
Authors: Farag Mohamed A. , Wessjohann Ludger A.
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) is a plant of considerable commercial importance in traditional medicine and for the flavor and sweets industry. Although Glycyrrhiza species are very competitive targets for phytochemical studies, very little is known about the volatiles composition within that genus, although such knowledge can be suspected to be relevant for understanding the olfactory and taste properties. To provide insight into Glycyrrhiza species aroma composition and for its use in food and pharmaceutical industry, volatile constituents from G. glabra, G. inflata, and G. echinata roots were profiled using steam distillation and solid‐phase microextraction. Two phenols, thymol and carvacrol, were found exclusively in essential oil and headspace samples of G. glabra, and with highest amounts for samples that originated from Egypt. In G. echinata oil, (2E, 4E)‐decadienal (21%) and β‐caryophyllene oxide (24%) were found as main constituents, whereas 1α, 10α‐epoxyamorpha‐4‐ene (13%) and β‐dihydroionone (8%) predominated G. inflata. Principal component and hierarchical cluster analyses clearly separated G. echinata and G. inflata from G. glabra; with phenolics and aliphatic aldehydes contributing mostly for species segregation.

Practical Application:  Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has large economic, nutritional, and medicinal values. The data presented in this article help in licorice quality control analysis to identify G. glabra from its closely allied species. The presence of thymol and carvacrol exclusively in G. glabra suggests that these volatiles could serve as chemotaxonomic markers and also might be considered as potentially relevant for taste.
Folate Content and Composition of Vegetables Commonly Consumed in China
Authors: Shohag M. J. I. , Wei Yanyan , Yu Ning , Lu Lingli , Zhang Jie , He Zhenli , Patring Johan , Yang Xiaoe
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  Folate deficiency increases the risk of chronic diseases, including neural tube defects (NTDs) in infants, megaloblastic anemia, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers in adults. China is the most NTDs prevalent area in the world. Folate deficiency in China can be reduced by proper supply of fresh leafy green vegetables but little is known about the folate content and vitamers in the vegetables commonly consumed by Chinese population. The purposes of this study were first to analyze most commonly consumed important vegetables that contribute to folate intake in the Chinese population and second to estimate the significance of selected vegetables as a source of dietary folate intake. Folate content and vitamers forms in vegetables were analyzed using a valid liquid chromatography method. Monoenzyme treatment was used for leafy green and some fruit vegetables, and dienzyme treatment for some root vegetables. Total folate content in commonly consumed vegetables ranged from 14.78 to 145.54 μg/100 g in edible portion with an average of 61.99 μg/100 g. The highest folate content (>140 μg/100 g) was found in pak choi and spinach. Total folate contents in leafy vegetables, fruit vegetables, and root vegetables were in the range of 17.22 to 145.54 μg/100g, 18.14 to 86.04 μg/100g, and 14.78 to75.81 μg/100g, respectively. The considerable variations in folate content were found in different types of vegetables commonly consumed by Chinese population. Leafy vegetables are a better source of folate than fruit and root vegetables commonly consumed by Chinese population.

Practical Application:  Data from this research would facilitate to accurately establish the actual folate intake by Chinese population. Our folate composition data on vegetables can be incorporated into the national food databases. Availability of such data is essential for estimating folate intake and defining an optimal level for fortification program in China.
Assessing local patients' knowledge and awareness of radiation dose and risks associated with medical imaging: A questionnaire study
Authors: Sin Ho‐kwan , Wong Chun‐Sing , Huang Bingsheng , Yiu Ka‐ling , Wong Wai‐lam , Chu Yiu Ching Tiffany
Published: November 2012

Introduction

To assess the awareness of radiation dose and associated risks caused by radiological procedures among local patients.

Methods

All subjects were recruited by randomly sampling the patients receiving radiological examinations. These subjects were stratified on age, sex and education. The questionnaire was in Chinese and consisted of 28 questions mostly in multiple choice/true‐or‐false format, divided into three sections examining demographic data, radiation knowledge/awareness and expectations.

Results

A total of 173 questionnaires were returned (83 females and 84 females; mean age of 53). Of these, 32.6% had attended college, 32.6% had completed matriculation and 24.4% secondary school. Most subjects underwent CT (75), MRI (70) and PET‐CT (18). Education significantly affected the radiation knowledge (P = 0.013). 60.7% and 32.7% were not aware of the radiation‐free nature of MRI and USG, respectively. Respectively, 45.4% and 43.5% were of the misconception that Barium enema and Barium swallow studies do not involve radiation. Moreover, 77.6% and 87.9% were aware of the radiation‐laden nature of CT and plain X‐rays, respectively. Furthermore, 34% and 50%, respectively, think that they are not exposed to radiation at home and on a plane. Regarding the fatal cancer risk from CT, 17.8% chose the correct answer and 62% underestimated the risk. 32.2% correctly estimated the equivalent dose of CT in terms of number of conventional X‐rays and 43.2% underestimated the dose. Most (98.2%) were told of the indication, and 42.7% were told the associated radiation dose.

Conclusion

Patient radiation awareness is unsatisfactory. There is need to increase patient radiation awareness, and to provide them with the necessary information.
Novel High‐Temperature Antiferroelectric‐Based Dielectric NaNbO3–NaTaO3 Solid Solutions Processed in Low Oxygen Partial Pressures
Authors: Kobayashi Keisuke , Ryu Minoru , Doshida Yutaka , Mizuno Youichi , Randall Clive A.
Published: November 2012

The (1−x)NaNbO3–(x)NaTaO3 solid solution was investigated for x ≤ 0.4 in terms of new high‐temperature and high‐permittivity dielectric system that is suitable for base metal inner electrode capacitor applications. The addition of Ta significantly enhanced the resistivity of the dielectric, resulting in superior resistivity than the dielectrics‐formulated BaTiO3 systems that dominate the multilayer ceramic capacitor dielectric devices. The voltage dependence of the permittivity was also superior to BaTiO3‐based materials, providing higher capacitance at higher temperatures. A transmission electron microscopy study illustrated that the grains had so‐called core‐shell structure. According to the electron diffraction analysis, the core region had an inhomogeneous structure between antiferroelectric and ferroelectric phases, and shell region had an incommensurate ferroelectric‐like structure. The core and shell region had Nb‐ and Ta‐rich composition, respectively, and their interface was compositionally sharp, implying that shell region was formed via a liquid phase during the sintering process with an incongruent Ta dissolution reprecipitation. We anticipate that these or similar materials based on the alkali‐niobate perovskites can be further enhanced to provide capacitor solutions from 150°C to 250°C, which is an important range for a number of new AC–DC invertor and engine control units.
Transgenic zebrafish model of the C43G human insulin gene mutation
Authors: Eames Stefani C , Kinkel Mary D , Rajan Sindhu , Prince Victoria E , Philipson Louis H
Published: November 2012

Aims/Introduction

The human insulin gene/preproinsulin protein mutation C43G disrupts disulfide bond formation and causes diabetes in humans. Previous in vitro studies showed that these mutant proteins are retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), are not secreted and are associated with decreased secretion of wild‐type insulin. The current study extends this work to an in vivo zebrafish model. We hypothesized that C43G‐green fluorescent protein (GFP) would be retained in the ER, disrupt β‐cell function and lead to impaired glucose homeostasis.

Materials and Methods

Islets from adult transgenic zebrafish expressing GFP‐tagged human proinsulin mutant C43G (C43G‐GFP) or wild‐type human proinsulin (Cpep‐GFP) were analyzed histologically across a range of ages. Blood glucose concentration was determined under fasting conditions and in response to glucose injection. Insulin secretion was assessed by measuring circulating GFP and endogenous C‐peptide levels after glucose injection.

Results

The majority of β‐cells expressing C43G proinsulin showed excessive accumulation of C43G‐GFP in the ER. Western blotting showed that C43G‐GFP was present only as proinsulin, indicating defective processing. GFP was poorly secreted in C43G mutants compared with controls. Despite these defects, blood glucose homeostasis was normal. Mutant fish maintained β‐cell mass well into maturity and secreted endogenous C‐peptide.

Conclusions

In this model, the C43G proinsulin mutation does not impair glucose homeostasis or cause significant loss of β‐cell mass. This model might be useful for identifying potential therapeutic targets for proper trafficking of intracellular insulin or for maintenance of β‐cell mass in early‐stage diabetic patients.
Development and validation of a real‐time PCR assay for the detection of Aeromonas salmonicida
Authors: Keeling S E , Brosnahan C L , Johnston C , Wallis R , Gudkovs N , McDonald W L
Published: November 2012

A real‐time PCR assay using a molecular beacon was developed and validated to detect the vapA (surface array protein) gene in the fish pathogen, Aeromonas salmonicida. The assay had 100% analytical specificity and analytical sensitivities of 5 ± 0 fg (DNA), 2.2 × 104 ± 1 × 104 CFU g−1 (without enrichment) and 40 ± 10 CFU g−1 (with enrichment) in kidney tissue. The assay was highly repeatable and proved to be robust following equivalency testing using a different real‐time PCR platform. Following analytical validation, diagnostic specificity was determined using New Zealand farmed Chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum), (n = 750) and pink shubunkin, Carassius auratus (L.) (n = 157). The real‐time PCR was run in parallel with culture and all fish tested were found to be negative by both methods for A. salmonicida, resulting in 100% diagnostic specificity (95% confidence interval). The molecular beacon real‐time PCR system is specific, sensitive and a reproducible method for the detection of A. salmonicida. It can be used for diagnostic testing, health certification and active surveillance programmes.
Use of agent‐based modelling to predict benefits of cleaner fish in controlling sea lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, infestations on farmed Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L.
Authors: Groner M L , Cox R , Gettinby G , Revie C W
Published: November 2012

Sea lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, are ectoparasites of farmed and wild salmonids. Infestations can result in significant morbidity and mortality of hosts in addition to being costly to control. Integrated pest management programmes have been developed to manage infestations, and in some salmon farming areas, these programmes include the use of wrasse. Wrasse prey upon the parasitic life stages of L. salmonis and can be stocked on farms at varying densities. Despite considerable variation in the usage of wrasse, there are few quantitative estimates of how well they can control sea lice and how best to optimize their use. To explore at what densities wrasse should be stocked in order to meet specific control targets, we built an individual‐based model that simulates sea lice infestation patterns on a representative salmonid host. Sea lice can be controlled through the use of chemical treatments as well as by wrasse predators. We found that the wrasse can effectively control sea lice, and the densities of wrasse needed for effective control depend upon the source of the infestation and the targeted level of control. Effective usage of wrasse can result in decreased use of chemical treatments and improved control of sea lice.
Interrater agreement, reliability and validity of the Glamorgan Paediatric Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Scale
Authors: Kottner Jan , Kenzler Martina , Wilborn Doris
Published: November 2012

Aims and objectives

To determine (1) What is the degree of interrater agreement and reliability of Glamorgan scale item and sum scores? and (2) Are Glamorgan scale sum scores valid?

Background

Pressure ulcer risk assessment scales are recommended for use in clinical practice. For paediatric patients, 12 instruments are currently described. Empirical evidence about the performance of Glamorgan scale scores in clinical practice is limited.

Design

An observational validation study was conducted on a paediatric cardiac unit of a large university hospital in Germany in April and May 2010.

Methods

Children were assessed simultaneously and independently by varying convenience samples of three nurses per assessment situation. Pressure ulcer risk was measured by the Glamorgan scale and a 100 mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Proportions of agreement (po), multirater kappa and intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated.

Results

Thirty children were rated by 27 nurses. Median children's age was 5·5 years. Agreement among item scores was high, whereas reliability coefficients of item scores were low. Interrater reliability for the Glamorgan scale sum scores was higher than for VAS scores. Correlation between both scales was moderate.

Conclusions

High agreement among item scores indicates that nurses are able to make precise judgements. The low interrater reliability of item and sum scores indicates that nurses were unable to differentiate the rated children based on their item and sum scores, thus providing little additional clinical relevant information about pressure ulcer risk in this setting.

Relevance to clinical practice

The Glamorgan scale and the VAS are unable to make clear distinctions in a low‐risk setting. Therefore, it is unlikely that the tools in this setting provide additional information for clinical decision making. Both tools are not recommended for daily use.
Bruxism defined and graded: an international consensus
Authors: Lobbezoo F. , Ahlberg J. , Glaros A. G. , Kato T. , Koyano K. , Lavigne G. J. , de Leeuw R. , Manfredini D. , Svensson P. , Winocur E.
Published: November 2012

To date, there is no consensus about the definition and diagnostic grading of bruxism. A written consensus discussion was held among an international group of bruxism experts as to formulate a definition of bruxism and to suggest a grading system for its operationalisation. The expert group defined bruxism as a repetitive jaw‐muscle activity characterised by clenching or grinding of the teeth and/or by bracing or thrusting of the mandible. Bruxism has two distinct circadian manifestations: it can occur during sleep (indicated as sleep bruxism) or during wakefulness (indicated as awake bruxism). For the operationalisation of this definition, the expert group proposes a diagnostic grading system of ‘possible’, ‘probable’ and ‘definite’ sleep or awake bruxism. The proposed definition and grading system are suggested for clinical and research purposes in all relevant dental and medical domains.
Enzymatic Characterization ofCorynespora cassiicolaIsolates Using theAPI‐ZYM®System
Authors: de Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso , de Oliveira Ricardo Ribeiro , de Marchi Bordon Caroline , Tessmann Dauri José , Schwan‐Estrada Kátia Regina Freitas , Vida João Batista
Published: November 2012

Corynespora cassiicola(Berk. &Curt.) Wei is an important phytopathogenic fungus, and different isolates show great diversity in their reproductive structures. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of theAPI‐ZYM®system as an auxiliary tool in the polyphasic approach ofC. cassiicolaidentification. FiveC. cassiicolaisolates from different host plants and onePseudocercospora griseolaisolate were tested. A typical enzymatic pattern was obtained, with eight enzymes being produced by all fiveC. cassiicolaisolates. An intraspecific differentiation was also found. Certain enzymes produced, such as α‐glucosidase, β‐glucosidase and α‐mannosidase, may be related to pathogenic processes, acting in the degradation of the structural components of the host cells.
A translocator‐specific export signal establishes the translocator–effector secretion hierarchy that is important for type III secretion system function
Authors: Tomalka Amanda G. , Stopford Charles M. , Lee Pei‐Chung , Rietsch Arne
Published: November 2012

Type III secretion systems are used by many Gram‐negative pathogens to directly deliver effector proteins into the cytoplasm of host cells. To accomplish this, bacteria secrete translocator proteins that form a pore in the host‐cell membrane through which the effector proteins are then introduced into the host cell. Evidence from multiple systems indicates that the pore‐forming translocator proteins are exported before effectors, but how this secretion hierarchy is established is unclear. Here we used the Pseudomonas aeruginosa translocator protein PopD as a model to identify its export signals. The N‐terminal secretion signal and chaperone, PcrH, are required for export under all conditions. Two novel signals in PopD, one proximal to the chaperone binding site and one at the very C‐terminus of the protein, are required for export of PopD before effector proteins. These novel export signals establish the translocator–effector secretion hierarchy, which in turn, is critical for the delivery of effectors into host cells.
Erythema nodosum induced by kerion celsi of the scalp in a child: a case report and mini‐review of literature
Authors: Castriota Marina , Ricci Francesco , Paradisi Andrea , Fossati Barbara , De Simone Clara , Capizzi Rodolfo , Guerriero Cristina
Published: November 2012

A 9‐year‐old girl, presented with a 4‐week history of an inflammatory suppurative plaque, 8 cm in diameter, localised in the occipital area of the scalp. Mycological direct examination showed ectoendothrix invasion of the hair and Trichophyton mentagrophytes was isolated. Oral therapy with griseofulvin 25 mg kg−1 day−1 was prescribed, but after 2 weeks of treatment appeared multiple erythematous subcutaneous nodules localised in the legs. Erythema nodosum (EN) was confirmed by histological examination of a nodule and then we combined therapy with 1 mg Kg−1 day−1 of prednisone. At the remission of the panniculitis, which occurred in about 10 days, the steroid therapy was suspended, while the orally administered griseofulvin continued for 6 weeks until full recovery. EN is the most frequent clinical form of acute nodular panniculitis and it is considered an epiphenomenon relative to various infectious and non‐infectious stimuli. The association of EN with dermatophytosis of the scalp is infrequent, with only 15 cases reported in the Literature.
Aerodynamic drag is not the major determinant of performance during giant slalom skiing at the elite level
Authors: Supej M. , Sætran L. , Oggiano L. , Ettema G. , Šarabon N. , Nemec B. , Holmberg H.‐C.
Published: November 2012

This investigation was designed to (a) develop an individualized mechanical model for measuring aerodynamic drag (Fd) while ski racing through multiple gates, (b) estimate energy dissipation (Ed) caused by Fd and compare this to the total energy loss (Et), and (c) investigate the relative contribution of Ed/Et to performance during giant slalom skiing (GS). Nine elite skiers were monitored in different positions and with different wind velocities in a wind tunnel, as well as during GS and straight downhill skiing employing a Global Navigation Satellite System. On the basis of the wind tunnel measurements, a linear regression model of drag coefficient multiplied by cross‐sectional area as a function of shoulder height was established for each skier (r > 0.94, all P < 0.001). Skiing velocity, Fd, Et, and Ed per GS turn were 15–21 m/s, 20–60 N, −11 to −5 kJ, and −2.3 to −0.5 kJ, respectively. Ed/Et ranged from ∼5% to 28% and the relationship between Et/vin and Ed was r = −0.12 (all NS). In conclusion, (a) Fd during alpine skiing was calculated by mechanical modeling, (b) Ed made a relatively small contribution to Et, and (c) higher relative Ed was correlated to better performance in elite GS skiers, suggesting that reducing ski–snow friction can improve this performance.
Management of Parkinson's Disease medication in acutely admitted patients
Authors: Sathyababu Renay , Chan Edmund , Dhakam Zahid
Published: November 2012

This project aimed to identify problems in the management of Parkinson's Disease (PD) medications in those acutely admitted to the medical ward. Errors in prescription of medications are due to difficulties in conversion of formulation of medications to suit different needs, lack of awareness of help available amongst junior doctors and lack of awareness of trust guidance. Drug charts were audited over two weeks on medical wards. Dosing, frequency, formulation, and any difficulties in the administration were noted. A survey of junior doctors regarding their knowledge of PD management was also undertaken. The effects of our interventions (creation of summary guidance made available on wards, advice regarding where to obtain prescription information, and teaching sessions) were evaluated using a survey and audit. There was improved accuracy in PD prescriptions, improved confidence in switching formulation, increased awareness of trust guidance and the consequences of missed doses of PD medications. However there was no improvement in knowledge about appropriate resources used to make correct prescriptions. Increased education and training is required to continue improvement in prescription accuracy and awareness of where to seek help, to improve patient safety.
Improving illiterate patients understanding and adherence to discharge medications
Authors: Clayton Matthew , Syed Faizan , Rashid Amjid , Fayyaz Umer
Published: November 2012

Adherence to a hospital discharge medication regime is crucial for successful treatment and to avoid increasing rates of drug resistance. A patient's success in adhering to their medication regime is dependent on many social, cultural, economic, illness and therapy-related factors, and these are often more pronounced in the developing world. Anecdotal evidence in Services Hospital, Lahore (Pakistan) suggested that the relatively high levels of illiteracy in the patient population was a major factor in poor adherence. Baseline measurement revealed that 48% of all the hospital's patients were illiterate with just 5%-12% of illiterate patients being able to interpret their handwritten discharge prescription after leaving hospital. Unsurprisingly follow-up clinics reported very poor adherence. This quality improvement project intervened by designing a new discharge prescription proforma which used pictures and symbols rather than words to convey the necessary information. Repeated surveys demonstrated large relative increases in comprehension of the new proformas amongst illiterate patients with between 23%-35% of illiterate patients understanding the new proformas.
Comparative phytolith analysis of Festuca (Pooideae: Poaceae) species native to Tierra del Fuego, Argentina
Authors: Fernández Pepi M.G. , Zucol A.F. , Arriaga M.O.
Published: November 2012

Festuca L. is one of the most representative native grasses of Tierra del Fuego in the southernmost area of South America. In several patches, however, domestic cattle have overgrazed, causing loss or replacement by exotic and adventitious species. We have carried out a comparative phytolith analysis of Patagonian fescue present in the Province of Tierra del Fuego. Fescue leaves are characterized by the presence of truncated cones, crescents, and sinuate trapezoid elements, predominantly short ones. Fan-shaped, small elongated prismatic, and point-shaped phytoliths, as well as articulated phytoliths originating in vascular and epidermal tissues, were observed less frequently. The most common articulated elements in leaf ashes are long cells and a combination of sinuate trapezoid and long cells or crescents. In inflorescence ash assemblages, long cells with undulate borders in association with crescents or emerging hooks are predominant. We have analyzed the diagnostic and differential characteristics of each species of phytolith assemblages to provide information for further studies on the presence of this species in different past soil samples.
Rhodiola integrifolia: hybrid origin and Asian relatives
Authors: Hermsmeier Ursula , Grann Jocelyn , Plescher Andreas
Published: November 2012

We investigated the relationship among North American Rhodiola integrifolia Raf., Rhodiola rosea L., and Rhodiola rhodantha (A. Gray) H. Jacobsen by sequencing a fragment of the nuclear-encoded chloroplast-expressed glutamine synthetase (ncpGS) gene from these three species and from selected Asian representatives of the genus. We found that R. integrifolia is a hybrid descendant of R. rosea and R. rhodantha lineages. We also found that the ncpGS gene and the internal transcribed spacer regions of the nuclear ribosomal DNA of Asian Rhodiola algida Fisch. & Mey. are very similar to those of R. rhodantha. In accordance with known chromosome numbers and species morphology, we therefore propose to move R. algida into the subgenus Clementsia of the genus Rhodiola, which so far contains only two species, R. rhodantha and Asian Rhodiola semenovii (Regel & Herder) Boriss.
Detailed analysis of Cucurbita pepo seed coat types and structures with scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Murovec Jana , Drašlar Kazimir , Bohanec Borut
Published: November 2012

Discovery of a mutant thin-coated seed phenotype at the end of the 19th century facilitated pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) seed oil production and increased botanic interest in seed coat types and their structures. The main seed coat characteristics were usually analyzed by light and fluorescent microscopy, and more recently, seed coat traits have also been mapped on a C. pepo gene map. The aim of our research was to collect and describe various pumpkin seed types and to analyze, using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the detailed structure of their seed coats. Seeds of 29 cultivars and landraces were collected and visually evaluated based on seed coat characteristics. Seed samples belonging to different seed types discovered in our collection were transversely sectioned and analyzed by SEM. Twelve seed types were determined, and SEM analysis revealed high variability in their seed coat structures. Using SEM, tissue and cell structures were clearly visible, and novel details of cell and tissue topography were documented. Hypodermal and aerenchyma cells in wild-type seed coats showed fibrous or reticulate secondary cell wall thickening, respectively. In mutant seed types, an absence of different seed coat layers was clearly noted, while the remaining layers were distinctly pronounced. A new completely hull-less seed type was described for the first time. Description of the variability of seed coats in pumpkin was complemented by novel seed coat types, and their structures were analyzed in detail the first time by SEM.
Relevance of the genetic structure of natural populations, and sampling and classification approaches for conservation and use of wild crop relatives: potato as an example
Authors: Camadro Elsa L.
Published: November 2012

Crop wild relatives (CWRs) are wild taxa with close genetic relationships to species with direct socioeconomic importance. As essential components of natural habitats and agricultural systems, their conservation and sustainable use are vital. CWRs are ex situ conserved in germplasm banks as samples of natural populations (accessions). Most accessions have been assigned specific status according to the Taxonomic Species Concept, which presupposes that living organisms are at the end of speciation. Thus, the morphological and genetic variability that could be encountered in natural populations is disregarded, negatively affecting conservation of allelic frequencies and effective use in breeding. Passport information usually contains collection date and geographical data, but not reproductive behavior of the sampled population (which defines its genetic structure) and sampling strategies. For ex situ multiplications of original collections, no information is provided on the effectively used strategies. As information on how accessions were composed is lacking, conservation of the allelic frequencies from the originally sampled populations is unknown. Knowledge of reproductive biology of plant populations is of utmost importance to understanding their natural morphological and molecular variability and to developing appropriate methodological approaches for sampling, classifying, and ex situ multiplying to conserve gene frequencies for basic and applied purposes.
DIVERGENCE FORM PARABOLIC EQUATIONS ON TIME-DEPENDENT QUASICONVEX DOMAINS
Authors: JIA HUILIAN , WANG LIHE
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we show the [Formula: see text] regularity of divergence form parabolic equations on time-dependent quasiconvex domains. The objective is to study the optimal parabolic boundary condition for the Lp estimates. The time-dependent quasiconvex domain is a generalization of the time-dependent Reifenberg flat domain, and assesses some properties analog to the convex domain. As to the a priori estimates near the boundary, we will apply the maximal function technique, Vitali covering lemma and the compactness method.
OPTIMIZATION AND OPENMP PARALLELIZATION OF A DISCRETE ELEMENT CODE FOR CONVEX POLYHEDRA ON MULTI-CORE MACHINES
Authors: CHEN JIAN , MATUTTIS HANS-GEORG
Published: November 2012

We report our experiences with the optimization and parallelization of a discrete element code for convex polyhedra on multi-core machines and introduce a novel variant of the sort-and-sweep neighborhood algorithm. While in theory the whole code in itself parallelizes ideally, in practice the results on different architectures with different compilers and performance measurement tools depend very much on the particle number and optimization of the code. After difficulties with the interpretation of the data for speedup and efficiency are overcome, respectable parallelization speedups could be obtained.
GENERALISED BPS CONDITIONS
Authors: WEST PETER
Published: November 2012

We write down two E11 invariant conditions which at low levels reproduce the known half BPS conditions for type II theories. These new conditions contain, in addition to the familiar central charges, an infinite number of further charges which are required in an underlying theory of strings and branes. We comment on the application of this work to higher derivative string corrections.
STRESS DROP LED BY TWINNING DURING INITIAL STAGE OF HOT COMPRESSION OF TWIN-ROLL CAST Mg–5.51%Zn–0.49%Zr ALLOY
Authors: LIU ZHIYI , XU JING , HOU YANHUI , KANG SUKBONG
Published: November 2012

Flow stress behavior during initial stage of hot compression of twin-roll cast ZK60 magnesium alloy was characterized by employing deformation temperature of 300°C and 400°C, and a given strain rate of 10-2 s -1. A stress drop during initial stage of hot compression at 300°C, generally led by dynamic recrystallization, was found to be attributed to twinning, correspondingly to dynamic recrystallization as deformation temperature was raised to 400°C.
ABSORBING BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR A WAVE EQUATION WITH A TEMPERATURE-DEPENDENT SPEED OF SOUND
Authors: SHEVCHENKO IGOR , KALTENBACHER MANFRED , WOHLMUTH BARBARA
Published: November 2012

In this work, new absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs) for a wave equation with a temperature-dependent speed of sound are proposed. Based on the theory of pseudo-differential calculus, first- and second-order ABCs for the one- and two-dimensional wave equations are derived. Both boundary conditions are local in space and time. The well-posedness of the wave equation with the developed ABCs is shown through the reduction of the original problem to an equivalent one for which the uniqueness and existence of the solution has already been established. Although the second-order ABC is more accurate, the numerical realization is more challenging. Here we use a Lagrange multiplier approach which fits into the abstract framework of saddle point formulations and yields stable results. Numerical examples illustrating stability, accuracy and flexibility of the ABCs are given. As a test setting, we perform computations for a high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) application, which is a typical thermo-acoustic multi-physics problem.
ELECTROCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF POLY SODIUM 4-STYRENESULFONATE INTERCALATED GRAPHITE OXIDE ELECTRODE IN AN AQUEOUS ELECTROLYTE
Authors: YANG CHEOL-SOO , LEE JEONG-O , JEONG HAE KYUNG
Published: November 2012

The electrochemical properties of poly sodium 4-styrenesulfonate intercalated graphite oxide (PSSGO) have been investigated in a 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte. We observed capacitor behavior at scan rate of 1–25 mV/s in a cyclic voltammetry. Specific capacitance obtained from galvanostatic charge and discharge measurements were 6 F/g to 102 F/g at 1 A/g to 0.1 A/g, respectively. The specific capacitance of PSSGO is relatively high compared to that of the precursor graphite oxide in which the specific capacitance was 11–20 F/g at 0.03 A/g. Capacitance retention was 73% after 3000 cycles, proving reliable cyclic stability up to 3000 cycles.
INVESTIGATING SILVICULTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF YEW (TAXUS BACCATA L.) STAND USING FULL-CALLIPERING IN NORTHERN FORESTS OF IRAN
Authors: FALLAHCHAI MIR MOZAFFAR , HASHEMI SEYED ARMIN , RAHANJAM GASEM
Published: November 2012

In this research, some of site and silvicultural characteristics of Yew stand in northern forests of Iran was studied. For this purpose, compartment number 16 of district 4 Shir-ghalaye was selected. According to research purposes, stands with an area of 20 ha were chosen in center of the compartment and was separated from map. Due to restricted area of region and according to few number of Yew trees in the stand, the full-callipering method was conducted for measuring quantitative and qualitative characteristics. In the stand diameter at breast height (D.B.H.), height and canopy diameter of all Yew trees were measured. The results showed that the diameter distribution curve and height distribution curve of Yew trees were similar to even-age forests curve. But according to average annual increment, mixture type of Yew trees in stand, diameter distribution of other species and low rate regeneration of Yew, it can be concluded that the studied Yew stand, is an uneven-age stand and because of low rate regeneration in previous years the number of young Yew trees were reduced and even-age forest curve was formed subsequently. The maximum height and diameter of Yew trees were recorded 26.8 m and 112 cm, respectively. Also, the number of trees per hectare and basal area per hectare of Yew trees were calculated 14.55 and 3.23 m2 respectively.
ON THE UNIVERSALITY OF THE DISTRIBUTION OF THE GENERALIZED EIGENVALUES OF A PENCIL OF HANKEL RANDOM MATRICES
Authors: BARONE PIERO
Published: November 2012

Universality properties of the distribution of the generalized eigenvalues of a pencil of random Hankel matrices, arising in the solution of the exponential interpolation problem of a complex discrete stationary process, are proved under the assumption that every finite set of random variables of the process have a multivariate spherical distribution. An integral representation of the condensed density of the generalized eigenvalues is also derived. The asymptotic behavior of this function turns out to depend only on stationarity and not on the specific distribution of the process.
Investigation of Solution-Processed Organic Light-Emitting Diode Fabrication on Patterned Line Structure Using Bar-Coating Method
Authors: Koyama Tomohiro , Naka Shigeki , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: November 2012

We have investigated a noncontact bar-coating method with a patterned line structure for a solution-processed organic light-emitting diode, which is suitable for simple and large-area production. The line-and-space (L/S) structure of an insulating photoresist material was effective for the control of a drying process with a pinning effect in a solution process. In a device with an L/S photoresist on an indium tin oxide (ITO) substrate, a uniform emission of more than 30×30 mm2 was observed.
Tip-Induced Deformation of Graphene on SiO2 Assessed by Capacitance Measurement
Authors: Naitou Yuichi
Published: November 2012

Tip-induced deformation of graphene on a SiO2 substrate was probed through a combination of scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) and dynamic force microscopy (DFM). Spectroscopic analysis revealed that the resonant frequency shift (Δf) of the probe tip oscillation and the modulated capacitance (ΔC) simultaneously measured on graphene depend on the externally applied bias voltage while keeping the tip–sample distance constant. This finding is interpreted as a result of a local displacement of the graphene surface caused by the electrostatic force between the probe tip and graphene. The approach curve of the SCM tip toward graphene can be used to calibrate the observed ΔC spectra, quantitatively yielding an average deformation of approximately 0.31 nm in trilayer graphene and 0.21 nm in single-layer graphene.
Growth and Characterization of N-Polar GaN Films on Si(111) by Plasma Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Dasgupta Sansaptak , Wu Nidhi , Speck James S. , Mishra Umesh K.
Published: November 2012

Smooth N-polar GaN films were epitaxially grown by plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE) on on-axis p-Si(111). The structural quality of the as-grown GaN films was further improved by insertion of AlGaN/GaN superlattice structures, resulting in reduced threading dislocation density and also efficient stress management in the GaN film to mitigate crack formation. The structural quality of these films was comparable to N-polar GaN grown on C-SiC by MBE. Convergent beam electron diffraction (CBED) imaging and KOH etch studies were performed to confirm the N-polarity of the sample. Room temperature photoluminescence measurements revealed strong GaN band-edge emission.