bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decision making and preferences for acoustic signals in choice situations by female crickets
Authors: Gabel Eileen , Kuntze Janine , Hennig R. Matthias
Published: July 2015

For mate choice decisions usually multiple attributes have to be assessed. An efficient choice for the best mate is complicated if available cues are not positively correlated as is often the case during acoustic communication. Due to varying distances of signalers a female may be confronted with signals of diverse quality at different intensities. Here we examined how available cues are weighted for a decision by female crickets. Two songs with different temporal patterns and/or sound intensities were presented in a choice paradigm and compared to female responses from a no-choice test.

When both patterns were presented at equal intensity, preference functions became wider in choice situations as compared to a no-choice paradigm. When the stimuli in two-choice tests were presented at different intensities, this effect was counteracted as preference functions became narrower compared to choice tests with stimuli of equal intensity. The weighting of intensity differences depended on pattern quality and was therefore non-linear. A simple computational model based on pattern and intensity cues reliably predicted female decisions. A comparison of processing schemes suggested that the computations for pattern recognition and directionality are performed in a network with parallel topology. However, the computational flow of information corresponded to serial processing.
A Novel Nitrogen Protective Pressurization Method to Fabricate Nano Magnesium Oxide
Authors: Chen Lifeng , Fan Hongtao , Li Wenxiu , Bai Peng
Published: July 2015

We described a novel nitrogen protective pressurization method for the preparation of nano magnesium oxide. The product obtained was characterized. It was shown that the obtained nano magnesium oxide sample had single phase and cubic crystal structure. The effect of different reaction temperatures on the products was also revealed. Compared with the normal pressure method, the purities and yields of nano magnesium oxide products were increased by the novel method. Moreover, some scale-up experiments were also done.
Optimising medication for Parkinson's disease patients with dysphagia
Authors: Patel Krupa
Published: July 2015

In addition to movement disorders, Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with several nonmotor symptoms, including dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). Dysphagia can make the consumption of solid medicines difficult, which potentially contributes to the poor adherence that is common among people with PD. However, patients may be reluctant to admit that they experience dysphagia. Community nurses should actively enquire into swallowing difficulties among all patients, not only those with PD, and should work with pharmacists and other members of the multidisciplinary team to help optimise medication management to help improve adherence.
Supporting carers: a learning resource for community nurses
Authors: Maskell Pip , Somerville Mary , Mathews Alex
Published: July 2015

In 2013, as part of the Queen's Nursing Institute (QNI) Carers Project, the QNI asked the 4M Learning Network to test the need for a learning resource to enable community nurses to support carers' health and wellbeing needs. In order to measure the learning needs of community nurses, the QNI undertook a literature review ( Laing and Sprung, 2013 ). The 4M team commenced with desk research and extensive consultation using an online survey and workshops across England. The outcomes of this consultation informed the development of an open-access online learning resource for community nurses, with modules covering different aspects of the nurses' role in relation to carers, as well as a comprehensive resource directory and e-workbook. This resource was launched in March 2014.

In response to the enthusiasm and positive feedback from the community nurses, two learning resources were launched in March 2015 for practice nurses and school nurses. An accompanying resource directory mobile application is currently being development and is due to be released in summer 2015. It should be noted that throughout the article, the term carers refers to informal carers, i.e. family or friends caring for a person at home; it does not refer to an employed care assistant or helper.
Assessing quality of life in Welsh carers with and without back pain
Authors: Shiue Ivy
Published: July 2015

Background

The author aimed to study the prevalence and characteristics of care provision in Welsh adults with and without back pain, as well as their quality of life. The study used a country-wide and population-based setting from an independent dataset. Method Data were retrieved from and analysed in the Welsh Health Survey 2013. Information on demographics, lifestyle factors, regular care provision, and quality of life was obtained from household interviews. Chi-square tests, t-tests, and survey-weighted multinomial regression modelling were performed.

Results

Of 15 007 Welsh adults aged 16 years and above, 2751 (18.3%) reported they had been caring for a sick, disabled, or frail person. The carers tended to be between 40–74 years, female, had not obtained a bachelor's degree, with a body mass index >25, physically active, smokers, and living in indoor secondhand smoke households. People who lived in mid and western Wales tended to give care, compared with those who lived in southeast and north Wales. Carers with back pain experienced slight physical health and emotional problems, whereas carers without back pain experienced worse physical health and emotional problems, which could disrupt normal life.

Conclusion

Nearly one in five Welsh adults, with or without back pain, have provided care for other people. Future socioeconomic structure, health policy, and nursing programmes to reinvest in long-term care, such as a national psychiatric care initiative, should be encouraged, to lessen mental suffering alongside chronic pains and to optimise adult mental health and quality of life in all people, with or without back pain.
Reshaping Public Health Nursing in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Pye Virginia
Published: July 2015

Across the world, there are concerns about how nursing and midwifery services are delivered in community settings. In the Republic of Ireland (ROI), significant economic contraction since 2009 has resulted in a decrease in the number of personnel available at a time when the older and younger population has been increasing. The purpose of this article is to outline a change initiative made in one public health nursing service in the ROI. In this change process, public health nursing staff moved from generalist to specialist roles. Distinct teams were created to deal with clinical care and child health, welfare, and protection. A key feature of the clinical team was the utilisation of a corporate caseload approach. The change was prompted by a reduction in staffing numbers, vacant caseloads, and increasing clinical risks and activity. Initial response to the change from frontline staff, management, and patients has been positive. The main effects of the change were noted in caseload management, risk management, and increased focus on clinical supervision. An external evaluation of the change initiative was carried out in 2014.
Recognition and management of children with protracted bacterial bronchitis
Authors: Paul Siba P , Sanapala Swathi , Bhatt Jayesh M
Published: July 2015

Chronic moist cough in children can be associated with serious pathologies. Protracted bacterial bronchitis remains a clinical diagnosis causing persistent moist cough, disturbed sleep, exercise intolerance and significant levels of morbidity. Management involves minimal investigations and prolonged courses of antibiotics.
Early phase cancer clinical trials: design, ethics and future directions
Authors: Coupe Nicholas , Gupta Avinash , Lord Simon R
Published: July 2015

The main role of early phase clinical trials in cancer is to determine the dose to take forward for future clinical study. However, study design is changing in order to account for the change in focus of drug development toward molecularly targeted agents.
When collaborative governance scales up: lessons from global public health about compound collaboration
Authors: Ansell Chris
Published: July 2015

Global diseases require collaboration at multiple scales – from local to global. This article examines the experience of three international global public health partnerships – UNAIDS, the Stop TB Partnership and the Roll Back Malaria Partnership. These partnerships must be understood as compound collaborations. Such collaboration can often exhibit a marked tension between loose and tight coupling. Strategically designed to be loose or flexible in order to build initial support, loose institutional arrangements can also render these partnerships ineffective. Focal institutions, however, can help to align and facilitate the contributions of different partners operating on different scales.
Why does the gap between health outcomes for children in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan not mirror their economic difference?
Authors: Rasulova Saltanat
Published: July 2015

It is often said that economic growth promotes human development but it is not always true that economic growth automatically results in poverty reduction and human development. This paper illustrates that policies play an important role in establishing this link. It examines the differences between Kazakhstan's and Kyrgyzstan's health policy and spending to understand factors explaining why two countries with a significant economic difference do not differ in their health outcomes for children. In doing so, it explores the main health policies of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan and their implications for children's lives from a capability perspective built within a concern of human development more broadly.
Multiannual hydrological responses in Scots pine radial growth within raised bogs in southern Sweden
Authors: Edvardsson Johannes , Hansson Anton
Published: July 2015

To explore interactions between climate and peatland hydrology, Scots pine ( L.) growing at four raised bogs in southern Sweden were subject to a dendroclimatological study. Radial tree growth reflecting climate and water table fluctuations over multiannual periods was detected as significant negative correlations between tree-ring width (TRW) chronologies and the preceding one to four years total precipitation or river discharge. Systematically stronger negative correlations were obtained when river discharge instead of precipitation was compared to radial tree growth. This indicates that river discharge reflect moisture variability of peat bogs better than what precipitation data does. Meanwhile, monthly precipitation and radial tree growth did not show any clear correlation, whereas spring and early summer temperatures had a positive influence on the tree growth. Our study shows that growth variability of bog pines in the Boreal zone reflect hydrological responses related to a synthesis of climate controlled moisture variability over several year periods.Pinus sylvestris
Identificação do comportamento viscoelástico não-linear e do dano em misturas asfálticas utilizando testes de varredura de tensão
Authors: Coutinho Renato Peixoto , Freire Reuber Arrais , Castelo Branco Verônica Teixeira Franco , Soares Jorge Barbosa
Published: July 2015

Resumo: Os materiais asfálticos apresentam comportamento que pode ser aproximado pela teoria da viscoelasticidade. Nesses materiais, é importante que seja feita a separação entre as respostas viscoelástica não-linear e de dano por fadiga. Este problema é complexo, pois nestas zonas (não-linear e dano) os materiais asfálticos apresentam comportamentos mecânicos semelhantes. Este trabalho apresenta um procedimento experimental e analítico para separação destas zonas em concretos asfálticos. Para isso foi utilizada uma máquina de teste universal (UTM-25) e ensaios de varredura de tensão em diferentes misturas asfálticas. Depois de coletados os valores de deslocamento, foi utilizada uma análise estatística para encontrar a tensão máxima que pode ser aplicada ao material sem que seja invocada a resposta referente ao dano por fadiga. Os resultados mostraram que o valor da tensão de transição está diretamente associado
às propriedades do material, e que a rigidez pode ser um fator determinante.

Palavras-chave: misturas asfálticas, viscoelasticidade não-linear, dano por fadiga, varredura de tensão.

Abstract: Asphaltic materials are known to have a behavior that can be approximated by the viscoelasticity theory. In these materials it is essential to separate the nonlinear viscoelastic response from the fatigue damage response. This is a complex issue, because both nonlinearity and damage have a similar effect on the material mechanical behavior. This paper presents experimental and analytical procedures for separation of the nonlinear viscoelastic response from the fatigue damage in hot asphalt mixtures (HMA). A Universal Testing Machine 25 was used to perform stress sweep tests in three different HMAs. Once all the strain values were collected for each material, a statistical analysis was used to find the maximum stress that can be applied to the material without invoking the fatigue damage response. The results showed that the transition stress is directly associated with the material properties and stiffness can be a determining factor.

Keywords: asphalt mixtures, nonlinear viscoelasticity, fatigue damage, stress sweep.
PROBABILISTIC HUMAN DEVELOPMENT INDICES
Authors: Sant'Anna Annibal Parracho
Published: July 2015

Alternative indicators to the Human Development Index adopting the same components but using other forms of combination are discussed here. The basic idea is to transform the initial measurements into probabilities of achieving the worst performance. Joint probabilities are compared to the proximity to the frontier generated by the algorithm of Data Envelopment Analysis with constant returns to scale and constant inputs to scores applying the Choquet integral with respect to capacities that take into account the substitutability between the components of the index. A high correlation between the results of different forms of composition was found, demonstrating the robustness of the Human Development Index. On the other hand, advantages of different alternatives of composition could be noticed.
KNOWLEDGE WASTE IN ORGANIZATIONS: A REVIEW OF PREVIOUS STUDIES
Authors: Ferenhof Helio Aisenberg , Durst Susanne , Selig Paulo Mauricio
Published: July 2015

In this paper, we are interested in the knowledge that is “wasted” in organizations, that is existing relevant knowledge that is overlooked in the process of knowledge conversion. Given the competitive pressure firms are facing in today´s business environment, a waste of knowledge is not only costly but also dangerous. This means that we consider knowledge from a knowledge at risk perspective. Having this in mind, the purpose of this paper is to review research on knowledge waste in organizations to establish our current body of knowledge regarding this topic. The study consists of a systematic review of 51 peer-reviewed articles addressing knowledge waste in organizations. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no systematic literature review on this topic has previously been published or presented. The topic seems to be a promising field for intensive research and offers a variety of future research avenues. In view of practitioners, the study´s finding may enable an increased awareness towards the areas where existing knowledge is at the mercy of “waste”. This can assist practitioners to better cope with risks related to this waste and, therefore, better exploit the (limited) knowledge base available.
ALIGNMENT OF CULTURAL AGREEMENT PRACTICES IN A BRAZILIAN BASED COMPANY
Authors: Russo Giuseppe , Tomei Patricia
Published: July 2015

This paper reports the results of a case study research carried out in  the Rio de Janeiro firm ARFCO, based on documentary evidence, interviews and questionnaires with the main objective to analyze the cultural agreement of an organization's subcultures, identifying the values (both extant and desired) perceived by the clusters (for both the leadership and the staff).The theoretical framework for the research is based on the theories on organizational management and change and based on the assumption that the search for clusters of similar perceptions is important for cultural alignment of subcultures.After an overview of the theories, programs and approaches for cultural management and change, the research method and questions of research are formalized so as to guide the case study. Simultaneous recourse was made to both a quantitive Q-methodology for the systematic analysis of subjectivity, that enabled the ideographic evaluation of organizational values, and a qualitative methodology, by means of study of the case. Results of the study indicate that although several elements of management and change capabilities are present, the organizational culture of ARFCO is predominantly defragmented. The existence of cultural fit among the subcultures of the leadership and the staff, with respect to desired values, offers us sufficient insight to suggest that cultural alignment within ARFCO is possible, as long as the current differences of perception can be attenuated.
Pencils of small degree on curves on unnodal Enriques surfaces
Authors: Rasmussen Nils Henry , Zhou Shengtian
Published: July 2015

We use vector-bundle techniques in order to compute dimW1
d(C) where C is general and smooth in a linear system on an unnodal Enriques surface. We furthermore find new examples of smooth curves on Enriques surfaces with an infinite number of g1
gon(C)’s.
Torsion-free G*2(2)-structures with full holonomy on nilmanifolds
Authors: Fino Anna , Luján Ignacio
Published: July 2015

We study the existence of invariant metrics with holonomy G* 2(2) ⊂ SO(4, 3) on compact nilmanifolds, i.e. on compact quotients of nilpotent Lie groups by discrete subgroups. We prove that, up to isomorphism, there exists only one indecomposable nilpotent Lie algebra admitting a torsion-free G* 2(2)-structure such that the center is definite with respect to the induced inner product. In particular, we show that the associated compact nilmanifold admits a 3-parameter family of invariant metrics with full holonomy G* 2(2).
Michael’s Selection Theorem in a semilinear context
Authors: Aschenbrenner Matthias , Thamrongthanyalak Athipat
Published: July 2015

We establish versions of Michael’s Selection Theorem and Tietze’s Extension Theorem in the category of semilinear maps.
Dendrimers for theranostic applications
Authors: Sk Ugir Hossain , Kojima Chie
Published: July 2015

Recently, there have been tremendous advances in the development of various nanotechnology-based platforms for diagnosis and therapy. These nanoplatforms, which include liposomes, micelles, polymers, and dendrimers, comprise highly integrated nanoparticles that provide multiple functions, such as targeting, imaging, and therapy. This review focuses on dendrimer-based nanocarriers that have recently been developed for ‘theranostics (or theragnosis)’, a combination of therapy and diagnostics. We discuss thein vitroandin vivoapplications of these nanocarriers in strategies against diseases including cancer. We also explore the use of dendrimers as imaging agents for fluorescence imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray computed tomography, and nuclear medical imaging.
Performance of strip-based glucose meters and cassette-based blood gas analyzer for monitoring glucose levels in a surgical intensive care setting
Authors: Claerhout Helena , De Prins Martine , Mesotten Dieter , Van den Berghe Greet , Mathieu Chantal , Van Eldere Johan , Vanstapel Florent
Published: July 2015

We verified the analytical performance of strip-based handheld glucose meters (GM) for prescription use, in a comparative split-sample protocol using blood gas samples from a surgical intensive care unit (ICU).

Freestyle Precision Pro (Abbott), StatStrip Connectivity Meter (Nova), ACCU-CHEK Inform II (Roche) were evaluated for recovery/linearity, imprecision/repeatability. The GMs and the ABL90 (Radiometer) blood gas analyzer (BGA) were tested for relative accuracy vs. the comparator hexokinase glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (HK/G6PDH) assay on a Cobas c702 analyzer (Roche).

Recovery of spiked glucose was linear up to 19.3 mmol/L (347 mg/dL) with a slope of 0.91–0.94 for all GMs. Repeatability estimated by pooling duplicate measurements on samples below (n=9), in (n=51) or above (n=80) the 4.2–5.9 mM (74–106 mg/dL) range were for Freestyle Precision Pro: 4.2%, 4.0%, 3.6%; StatStrip Connectivity Meter: 4.0%, 4.3%, 4.5%; and ACCU-CHEK Inform II: 1.4%, 2.5%, 3.5%. GMs were in agreement with the comparator method. The BGA outperformed the GMs, with a MARD of 3.9% compared to 6.5%, 5.8% and 4.4% for the FreeStyle, StatStrip and ACCU-CHEK, respectively. Zero % of the BGA results deviated more than the FDA 10% criterion as compared to 9.4%, 3.7% and 2.2% for the FreeStyle, StatStrip and ACCU-CHEK, respectively. For all GMs, icodextrin did not interfere. Variation in the putative influence factors hematocrit and O

GMs quantified blood glucose in whole blood at about the 10% total error criterion, proposed by the FDA for prescription use.
Lebensform – zweite Natur – Person
Authors: Heinrichs Bert
Published: July 2015

For a couple of years, “Aristotelian Naturalism” has been the subject of intensive debates. Among the most prominent proponents of this type of ethical theory are Philippa Foot and John McDowell. At first sight, these approaches are quite attractive for they seem to combine a number of advantages. The central thesis of the present paper is, however, that they do not succeed in developing a convincing ethical theory. To substantiate this claim, Foot’s approach will be presented in a first step. In a second step, McDowell’s critique on Foot will be outlined. Foot’s attempt to provide an external foundation for morality takes centre stage here. In a third step, McDowell’s own version of Aristotelian Naturalism, which has an explicitly anti-foundational shape, will be delineated. Although McDowell’s critique on Foot proves to be valid, it leads him to the wrong conclusions. He ignores that a reason-internal foundation of morality is available which resists his legitimate critique while being superior to his own anti-foundational theory. At the core of such an approach lies a non-reductive concept of person, which stands in clear contrast to Foot’s concept of “life form” as well as to McDowell’s concept of “second nature”.
Extracellular localization of catalase is associated with the transformed state of malignant cells
Authors: Böhm Britta , Heinzelmann Sonja , Motz Manfred , Bauer Georg
Published: July 2015

Oncogenic transformation is dependent on activated membrane-associated NADPH oxidase (NOX). However, the resultant extracellular superoxide anions are also driving the NO/peroxynitrite and the HOCl pathway, which eliminates NOX-expressing transformed cells through selective apoptosis induction. Tumor progression is dependent on dominant interference with intercellular apoptosis-inducing ROS signaling through membrane-associated catalase, which decomposes H2O2 and peroxynitrite and oxidizes NO. Particularly, the decomposition of extracellular peroxynitrite strictly requires membrane-associated catalase. We utilized small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of catalase and neutralizing antibodies directed against the enzyme in combination with challenging H2O2 or peroxynitrite to determine activity and localization of catalase in cells from three distinct steps of multistage oncogenesis. Nontransformed cells did not generate extracellular superoxide anions and only showed intracellular catalase activity. Transformed cells showed superoxide anion-dependent intercellular apoptosis-inducing ROS signaling in the presence of suboptimal catalase activity in their membrane. Tumor cells exhibited tight control of intercellular apoptosis-inducing ROS signaling through a high local concentration of membrane-associated catalase. These data demonstrate that translocation of catalase to the outside of the cell membrane is already associated with the transformation step. A strong local increase in the concentration of membrane-associated catalase is achieved during tumor progression and is controlled by tumor cell-derived H2O2 and by transglutaminase.
The Bayesian Causal Effect Estimation Algorithm
Authors: Talbot Denis , Lefebvre Geneviève , Atherton Juli
Published: July 2015

Estimating causal exposure effects in observational studies ideally requires the analyst to have a vast knowledge of the domain of application. Investigators often bypass difficulties related to the identification and selection of confounders through the use of fully adjusted outcome regression models. However, since such models likely contain more covariates than required, the variance of the regression coefficient for exposure may be unnecessarily large. Instead of using a fully adjusted model, model selection can be attempted. Most classical statistical model selection approaches, such as Bayesian model averaging, do not readily address causal effect estimation. We present a new model averaged approach to causal inference, Bayesian causal effect estimation (BCEE), which is motivated by the graphical framework for causal inference. BCEE aims to unbiasedly estimate the causal effect of a continuous exposure on a continuous outcome while being more efficient than a fully adjusted approach.
Increasing Evacuation Communication Through ICTs: An Agent-based Model Demonstrating Evacuation Practices and the Resulting Traffic Congestion in the Rush to the Road
Authors: Stephens Keri K. , Jafari Ehsan , Boyles Stephen , Ford Jessica L. , Zhu Yaguang
Published: July 2015

Understanding evacuation practices and outcomes helps crisis and disaster personnel plan, manage, and rebuild during disasters. Yet the recent expansion in the number of information and communication technologies (ICTs) available to individuals and organizations has changed the speed and reach of evacuation-related messages. This study explores ICTs’ influences on evacuation decision-making and traffic congestion. Drawing from both social science and transportation science, we develop a model representative of individual decision making outcomes based on the amount of ICT use, evacuation sources, and the degree of evacuation urgency. We compare the evacuation responses when individuals receive both advance notice of evacuation (ANE) and urgent evacuation (UE) messages under conditions of no ICTs and prolific ICT use. Our findings from the scenarios when there is widespread ICT use reveal a shift in the evacuation time-scale, resulting in traffic congestion early in the evacuation cycle. The effects of this congestion in urgent situations are significantly worse than traffic congestion in the advance notice condition. Even under conditions where face-to-face communication is the only option, evacuations still occur, but at a slower rate, and there are virtually no traffic congestion issues. Our discussion elaborates on the theoretical contributions and focuses on how ICTs have changed evacuation behavior. Future research is needed to explore how to compensate for the
Network Disaster Response Effectiveness: The Case of ICTs and Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Davis G. Leah , Robbin Alice
Published: July 2015

This article assesses how information and communication technologies (ICTs) hindered the effectiveness of public sector organizational networks in the City of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. The analysis examines three disaster response networks responsible for disaster planning and preparedness whose primary tasks focused on evacuation, shelter, first response, and public protection. The temporal period under discussion is the immediate days prior to and after Hurricane Katrina made landfall in New Orleans, Friday, August 26, 2005 to Sunday, September 4, 2005. We discuss the status of policies instituted by the federal government, the status of local disaster planning in New Orleans, the theoretical underpinnings and empirical research on communication, ICTs, and the role of organizational networks in public administration, and summarize findings from the small corpus of research on organizational network effectiveness during and after Hurricane Katrina. Our study relies on grounded theory to document how failures of technology, communication, information sharing, and management contributed to reducing organizational network effectiveness and discusses some of the reasons for network failure during the response to Hurricane Katrina. We focus on the need for critical resources and structural conditions that prevented local organizational networks from operating effectively and efficiently. We conclude with an analysis of the continuing relevance of Hurricane Katrina by comparing events that took place following Hurricane Sandy and with series of recommendations for assessing the probability of future disasters including use of a different theoretical framework, social-ecological system thinking; a commitment to and investment in metrics, indicators, and data to measure progress towards resilience; significant investments to harden and redesign key infrastructure; and the adoption of an international perspective to inform national policies and practices.
The lateralizing and localizing value of peri-ictal cough in epileptic seizures
Authors: Korkmaz Bektaş , Erşen Gülsün , Delil Şakir , Özkara Çiğdem , Yeni S. Naz
Published: July 2015

Introduction.Coughing may be observed as an epiphenomenon during or after epileptic seizures.

Aim.In this paper we discuss the lateralization and localization value of cough as an epileptic peri/post ictal semiological phenomenon.

Material and Methods.Seven patients presenting cough as a part of their symptomatology are presented. We will discuss cough in the context of these seven patients.

Results.Six out of these seven patients were multidrug resistant temporal lobe epilepsy patients, all were right handed. They were all examined for possible epilepsy surgery and four underwent surgery with complete seizure freedom. We do not have certain evidence for lateralization in one patient with hot water epilepsy though déjà vu as an initial symptom in this patient implies a temporal lobe onset. The seven other patients had temporal lobe epilepsy. Among the patients who had surgery, three had left sided and one had right sided temporal lobe surgery with consequent seizure freedom.

Conclusion.Referring to the argument in the literature, with our small patient sample, we might conclude that cough has significant value in localizing seizures to the temporal lobe but overall these limited data do not suggest a lateralizing value.
Failure of a first regimen of monotherapy to control the newly diagnosed epilepsies. What to do next?
Authors: Pimentel José
Published: July 2015

Background. Monotherapy is the choice regimen to treat newly diagnosed epilepsies. However, if it fails, several strategies may be followed.

Aim. To discuss the treatment options when an initial monotherapy regimen fails.

Methods. We reviewed the relevant literature on the topic by using PubMed.

Review and Discussion. Approximately 64% of people with epilepsy (PWE) de novo are free of seizures with the first appropriate antiepileptic drug (AED) in monotherapy. The type (first versus second generation) of the first AED to use depends on the physician's personal choice provided that it is a first-line AED. There is a tendency to prefer a substitution rather than a combination of a failed first AED when it was produced associated with an idiosyncratic reaction, was poorly tolerated at a moderate dose, or produced no improvement in seizure control. In contrast, there is some evidence to prefer secondary polytherapy whenever the PWE tolerate its first AED but with a suboptimal response. In this case, and particularly mainly if a first generation AED was used as a first-line treatment, I prefer to choose a new generation AED given their more favourable pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. A very often used strategy is transitional polytherapy between two regimens of monotherapy.

Conclusion. Any therapeutic decision should take into account factors such as seizure type or syndrome, possibility of drug side effects, comorbidities, comedications, age, teratogenic potential, and compliance. Whatever the option to be taken, the PWE, his family or the caregivers should take part in the decision making.
Diagnostik und Bedeutung der Hepatitis E Virus Infektion
Authors: Osterman Andreas , Nitschko Hans , Eberle Josef , Campe Hartmut
Published: July 2015

Zur Diagnostik der Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Infektion stehen heutzutage verschiedene virologische Methoden zur Verfügung. Die vermehrte Wahrnehmung sporadischer Fälle akuter Hepatitis E in Deutschland lenkt die Aufmerksamkeit zunehmend auf zoonotische Übertragungen des Virus. Die Kenntnis über unterschiedlich virulente HEV-Genotypen ist sowohl in Hinblick auf Epidemiologie und Krankheitsverlauf, als auch bei der Entwicklung und Auswahl diagnostischer Werkzeuge von Bedeutung. Es existieren eine Vielzahl enzymatischer und proteinbasierter Tests (ELISA, LIA, Western Blot), die anti-HEV IgG oder IgM Antikörper verschiedener HEV-Genotypen detektieren, jedoch große Unterschiede in Bezug auf Sensitivität und Spezifität aufweisen. Die heutzutage gebräuchlichste und am schnellsten auszuwertende Methode zur Diagnosesicherung einer Hepatitis E ist die PCR. Moderne, auch kommerziell erhältliche PCR-Kits können alle vier humanpathogenen Genotypen nachweisen. Zur Differenzierung der Genotypen wird in der Regel eine Sequenzierung durchgeführt, die bisher jedoch nur bei spezieller epidemiologischer Fragestellung von Relevanz ist. Methoden wie Antigennachweis, Virusanzucht oder T-Zell Assays haben bislang keine Bedeutung in der Routinediagnostik. Auch in Zukunft werden neue Erkenntnisse über die Pathogenese des Virus, seine klinische Relevanz bei bestimmten Patientengruppen (z.B. Immunsupprimierten) und die Anwendung antiviraler und prophylaktischer Therapien (Impfung) Leistungsmerkmale existierender Testformate herausfordern und die Anforderungen an durchführende diagnostische Labore erhöhen.
Cyclic voltammogram on ridge/pore array architectured electrode inspired by butterfly-wings
Authors: Guo Xingmei , Zhou Han , Zhang Di , Fan Tongxiang
Published: July 2015

Porous architectured electrodes are intensely investigated for promoting electrochemical performance. Besides the high surface area, mass transport plays an irreplaceable role in the architecture assisting effect, which is, however, far beyond expression due to the complexity and irregularity of various electrode materials. Here, we took advantage of elaborate architectures from butterfly wings and obtained carbon electrode with ridge/pore array hierarchical architecture (ridge/pore-C) using a carbonizing-graphite coating method. A basic one-electron transfer process using the redox couple ferri/ferrocyanide as a benchmark under cyclic voltammetric conditions was conducted. The peak potential separation for ridge/pore-C was decreased by 117 mV compared to its non-architectured counterpart, with obvious enhancement of peak current density, indicating prominent beneficial impact on electrochemical responses. Further finite element simulation demonstrated the additional lateral diffusion within the ridge domain and partial thin layer diffusion within the pore array domain of ridge/pore-C, and simultaneously verified the experimental results. By constructing and investigating the well-organized porous architecture for affecting cyclic voltammogram, this work provides a prototype and cost-effective method for structural design of efficient electrodes by drawing inspiration from nature.
Preparation and intermolecular interaction of bio-based elastomer/hindered phenol hybrid with tunable damping properties
Authors: Zhou Xinxin , Cai Lesi , Lei Weiwei , Qiao He , Liu Chaohao , Zhao Xiuying , Chen Jianfeng , Wang Runguo , Zhang Liqun
Published: July 2015

In this research, crosslinked hybrids of a newly invented bio-based elastomer poly(di-isoamyl itaconate-co-isoprene) (PDII) and 3,9-bis[1,1-dimethyl-2{β-(3-tert-butyl-4-hydroxy-5-methylphenyl)propionyloxy}ethyl]-2,4,8,10-tetraoxaspiro[5,5]-undecane (AO-80) were designed and prepared by the mechanical kneading of the PDII/AO-80 hybrids at a temperature higher than the melting point of AO-80, followed by the crosslinking of PDII during the subsequent hot-pressing/vulcanization process. The microstructure, morphology, and mechanical properties of the hybrids were systematically investigated in each preparation stage by using DSC, FTIR, XRD, SEM, DMTA, and tensile testing. Part of the AO-80 molecules formed an AO-80-rich phase, but most of them dissolved in the PDII to form a very fine dispersion in amorphous form. The results of FTIR and DSC indicated that strong intermolecular interactions were formed between the PDII and the AO-80 molecules. Each PDII/AO-80 crosslinked hybrid showed a single transition with a higher glass transition temperature and significantly higher loss value (tan δ) than the neat PDII because of intermolecular interactions between the PDII and the AO-80 molecules. For instance, tan δ of PDII/AO-80 consisting of 100 phr AO-80 achieved 2.6 times as neat PDII. The PDII/AO-80 crosslinked hybrids with applicability at room temperature are potential bio-based damping materials for the future.
Building blocks for bioinspired electrets: molecular-level approach to materials for energy and electronics
Authors: Larsen Jillian M. , Espinoza Eli M. , Hartman Joshua D. , Lin Chung-Kuang , Wurch Michelle , Maheshwari Payal , Kaushal Raman K. , Marsella Michael J. , Beran Gregory J. O. , Vullev Valentine I.
Published: July 2015

In biology, an immense diversity of protein structural and functional motifs originates from only 20 common proteinogenic native amino acids arranged in various sequences. Is it possible to attain the same diversity in electronic materials based on organic macromolecules composed of non-native residues with different characteristics? This publication describes the design, preparation and characterization of non-native aromatic β-amino acid residues, i.e. derivatives of anthranilic acid, for polyamides that can efficiently mediate hole transfer. Chemical derivatization with three types of substituents at two positions of the aromatic ring allows for adjusting the energy levels of the frontier orbitals of the anthranilamide residues over a range of about one electronvolt. Most importantly, the anthranilamide residues possess permanent electric dipoles, adding to the electronic properties of the bioinspired conjugates they compose, making them molecular electrets.
Combined use of CO2 laser and tissue glue versus conventional surgical techniques for circumcision – A prospective study
Authors: Mungnirandr Akkrapol , Wiriyakamolphan Suwanna , Ruangtrakool Ravit , Ngerncham Monawat , Tumrongsombutsakul Sureerat , Leumcharoen Bungorn
Published: July 2015

Use of a CO

Thirty boys were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n=17) underwent circumcision using a scalpel with approximation of the wound edges using chromic catgut sutures. Group 2 (n=13) underwent circumcision using a CO

Group 1 (scalpel+sutures) had a significantly longer operation time (

The combined use of a CO
The Arabic quantifier "kull"
Authors: Abdel-Ghafer Osama
Published: July 2015

This paper seeks to analyze the internal structure of "kull" structures and hence the asymmetries that arise in the context of such structures in Modern Standard Arabic. It is argued that "kull"-initial and "kull"-final are derivationally unrelated. Drawing on a number of structural asymmetries, the quantifier is argued to project into a quantifier phrase which is merged inside a determiner phrase. The difference between quantifier-initial and quantifier-final structures relates to the position where the quantifier phrase is merged. In quantifier-initial structures, the quantifier phrase is argued to be merged as the complement of the determiner while in quantifier-final structures, the quantifier phrase is argued to be adjoined to DP. Within this context, syntactic as well as semantic conse-quences result from the initial merge of the quantifier phrase.
Thermal Impacts of Vertical Greenery Systems
Authors: Safikhani Tabassom , Abdullah Aminatuzuhariah Megat , Ossen Dilshan Remaz , Baharvand Mohammad
Published: July 2015

- Using vertical greenery systems to reduce heat transmission is becoming more common in modern architecture. Vertical greenery systems are divided into two main categories; green facades and living walls. This study aims to examine the thermal performance of vertical greenery systems in hot and humid climates. An experimental procedure was used to measure indoor temperature and humidity. These parameters were also measured for the gap between the vertical greenery systems and wall surfaces. Three boxes were used as small-scale rooms. Two boxes were provided with either a living wall or a green facade and one box did not have any greenery (benchmark). Blue Trumpet Vine was used in the vertical greenery systems. The data were recorded over the course of three sunny days in April 2013. An analyses of the results showed that the living wall and green facade reduced indoor temperature up to 4.0 °C and 3.0 °C, respectively. The living wall and green facade also reduced cavity temperatures by 8.0 °C and 6.5 °C, respectively.
Biosorption of Metallic Elements onto Fen Peat
Authors: Krumins Janis , Robalds Artis
Published: July 2015

Industrial development and anthropogenic activity have a huge impact on the environment, forcing society to find new and cost-effective environment treatment technologies. One of the most effective and environmentally friendly methods is the use of biosorbents, for which peat is one of the most cost-effective materials. The adsorption capabilities of peat sediments are well known; however, mainly raised bog peat is used for environmental treatment, and thus the abilities of fen peat are underestimated. The aim of this research was to assess the fen peat suitability as an adsorbent for metallic elements. In this study we have determined the sorption characteristics of Ca, Mg, K, Na, Cu and Pb and results show that fen peat deposits have a huge variability as a biosorbent due to their variable botanical composition and complex properties, for instance, under equal conditions, wood-sedge peat can have higher lead adsorption capacity than wood peat. However, due to its natural content of metallic elements, the sorption capacity overall is lower than it is for raised bog peat, although the high pH reaction encourage a high mobility metals.
Performance Analysis of Air-to-Water Heat Pump in Latvian Climate Conditions
Authors: Kazjonovs Janis , Sipkevics Andrejs , Jakovics Andris , Dancigs Andris , Bajare Diana , Dancigs Leonards
Published: July 2015

Strategy of the European Union in efficient energy usage demands to have a higher proportion of renewable energy in the energy market. Since heat pumps are considered to be one of the most efficient heating and cooling systems, they will play an important role in the energy consumption reduction in buildings aimed to meet the target of nearly zero energy buildings set out in the EU Directive 2010/31/EU.

Unfortunately, the declared heat pump Coefficient of Performance (COP) corresponds to a certain outdoor temperature (+7 °C), therefore different climate conditions, building characteristics and settings result in different COP values during the year. The aim of this research is to investigate the Seasonal Performance factor (SPF) values of air-to-water heat pump which better characterize the effectiveness of heat pump in a longer selected period of time, especially during the winter season, in different types of residential buildings in Latvian climate conditions. Latvia has four pronounced seasons of near-equal length. Winter starts in mid-December and lasts until mid-March. Latvia is characterized by cold, maritime climate (duration of the average heating period being 203 days, the average outdoor air temperature during the heating period being 0.0 °C, the coldest five-day average temperature being −20.7 °C, the average annual air temperature being +6.2 °C, the daily average relative humidity being 79 %).

The first part of this research consists of operational air-towater heat pump energy performance monitoring in different residential buildings during the winter season. The second part of the research takes place under natural conditions in an experimental construction stand which is located in an urban environment in Riga, Latvia. The inner area of this test stand, where air-to-water heat pump performance is analyzed, is 9 m2. The ceiling height is 3 m, all external wall constructions (U = 0.16 W/(m2K)) have ventilated facades. To calculate SPF, the experimental stand is equipped with sensors which provide measurements for electricity consumption and gained heat energy.
Increasing of Food and Bioenergy Potato Resources by Microbial Influence on Tubers Phytohormonal Status
Authors: Kiprushkina Elena I. , Baranenko Denis A.
Published: July 2015

Potato and its by-products became a promising both food and bioenergy resource. The determination of the bacteriaantagonists influence on phytohormone status and productivity of potato tubers was studied. The indole-3-acetic acid content during the dormancy end and germinating in the tubers treated with Bacillus subtilis Ch-13 was fewer than in the control samples. L-tryptophan significant quantity compared to the control was found in the treated tubers in a state of physiological dormancy (more than 2-fold) and especially during active germination (43 times greater). Average potato yield increase at treated fields was of 18.8 %.
Modeling the next generation sequencing read count data for DNA copy number variant study
Authors: Ji Tieming , Chen Jie
Published: July 2015

As one of the most recent advanced technologies developed for biomedical research, the next generation sequencing (NGS) technology has opened more opportunities for scientific discovery of genetic information. The NGS technology is particularly useful in elucidating a genome for the analysis of DNA copy number variants (CNVs). The study of CNVs is important as many genetic studies have led to the conclusion that cancer development, genetic disorders, and other diseases are usually relevant to CNVs on the genome. One way to analyze the NGS data for detecting boundaries of CNV regions on a chromosome or a genome is to phrase the problem as a statistical change point detection problem presented in the read count data. We therefore provide a statistical change point model to help detect CNVs using the NGS read count data. We use a Bayesian approach to incorporate possible parameter changes in the underlying distribution of the NGS read count data. Posterior probabilities for the change point inferences are derived. Extensive simulation studies have shown advantages of our proposed methods. The proposed methods are also applied to a publicly available lung cancer cell line NGS dataset, and CNV regions on this cell line are successfully identified.