bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Whole Imaginary World
Authors: Ziajka Stanton Anna
Published: November 2015

Egyptian author Waguih Ghali’s 1964 English-language novel Beer in the Snooker Club has been until now largely neglected in scholarship on the literature of the Arab world. It portrays the privileged but aimless existence of a young man in 1950s Egypt who, in the course of his travels between Cairo and London and in his interactions with his snooker-playing friends and his elite social circle, is constantly negotiating cultural and ethnic boundaries. I argue here that the theoretical models of cosmopolitanism and hybridity often used to interpret works like Ghali’s position them within a system of binaries, distinct identity categories, and historical facts within which these fictional narratives become primarily instruments for representation, witnessing, and activist politics. Reading Beer in the Snooker Club against the backdrop of these theories, this essay explores the way that fictionality operates in the novel both thematically and as a literary device to unsettle notions of truth, identity, representation, the East–West encounter, and cosmopolitanism itself. Ghali’s text is also analyzed here in light of current debates in world literature and comparative literary studies over how global literature should be read in the Western academy, the limitations of the comparative method, and what constitutes “world literature” as a set of scholarly practices and/or as a canon of texts. Ultimately, this essay proposes a method of study that, by attending to the aesthetic and imaginative qualities of texts like Ghali’s that speak from the linguistic and cultural margins, allows them to emerge as literature within the discourse of academic scholarship.
New Data on Aramaic in Classical Piyyut—‮תשמיע ניחומים ללישה‬‎, a Silluq for Shabbat Shimʿu by Yoḥanan ha-Kohen
Authors: Rand Michael
Published: November 2015

The present article briefly reviews the research that has been conducted to-date on the use of Aramaic in Classical piyyut, and provides new material in this field: the silluq ‮תשמיע ניחומים ללישה‬‎ from a qedushta for Shabbat Shimʿu by Yoḥanan ha-Kohen, which includes an Aramaic passage. One of the manuscript sources for this composition, ms. ENA 3443/2, is also analyzed, and its copyist is identified as Eli ben Yehoshua he-Ḥaver (11th century). The article is provided with an appendix, in which Sahlan ben Avraham’s Targum poem ‮איתחברו ירחי שתא‬‎, a dispute between the months, is re-edited on the basis of newly-discovered material.
Glyptopetalum verticillatum (Celastraceae), a new species from Yunnan, China
Authors: LIU QUANRU , MENG SHIYONG , XU DONGXIAN , WANG JINGLAN , WANG SHAN
Published: November 2015

The genus Glyptopetalum Thwaites (1856: 267) consists of approximately twenty species distributed in tropical and subtropical Asia (Liu & Funston 2008). It belongs to the family Celastraceae and is very close to the genus Euonymus Linnaeus (1753: 197). Hou (1962, 1963) provided the best overview of Glyptopetalum, describing plants of that genus as shrubs or small trees with 4-merous flowers, 4-locular ovaries, pendulous ovules, with one per locule, loculicidal capsules with persistent columella and branched raphes. In particular, he stressed that one ovule per cell, persistent columella and branched raphes are the most reliable characteristics for distinguishing Glyptopetalum from Euonymus. Simmons et al. (2012) consider both Glyptopetalum and Torralbasia as closely related to Euonymus based on their experimental data of two (of 20) species of Glyptopetalum. However, they recommend that Glyptopetalum continues to be recognized as distinct from Euonymus, based on the three reproductive differences noted by Hou (1963). Li et al. (2014) also support this view based on their molecular data. Consequently, we recommend that Glyptopetalum be recognized as a distinct genus in this paper.
In Prison and Far From Home: Spatial Distance Effects on Inmate Misconduct
Authors: Lindsey Andrea M. , Mears Daniel P. , Cochran Joshua C. , Bales William D. , Stults Brian J.
Published: November 2015

Drawing on theory and research on prisoner behavior, this study examines whether spatial distance from home influences inmates’ likelihood of engaging in misconduct. Three hypotheses are developed: distally placed inmates will engage in more misconduct, distance will have a greater effect on misconduct among younger inmates, and visitation will mediate these relationships. We test the hypotheses using negative binomial regression analyses of data from the Florida Department of Corrections ( N = 33,853). Support for the hypotheses is mixed. A curvilinear relationship between distance and misconduct was identified, with a positive effect on misconduct for distances up to 350 miles and a negative effect thereafter. Distance effects were greater for younger inmates and were partially mediated by visitation. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Study on the performance of the acetylated bamboo fiber/PBS composites by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Xu Xiao-ling , Zhang Min , Qiang Qi , Song Ji-qing , He Wen-qing
Published: November 2015

A hypothesis, the mechanical properties, interfacial linkage, crystallization, and thermal stability between acetylated bamboo fiber (Ac-BF) and poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) matrix were significantly affected by the interactions between Ac-BF and PBS composites, was proposed based on the molecular dynamics simulation technique. Thereafter, SEM, XRD, TG and mechanical testing were employed to certify the above hypothesis. However, Ac-BF/PBS composite showed better stability than that of BF/PBS due to the lower mixing energy and Flory-Huggins interaction parameters ( χ). Further, strong van der Waals (VdW) interaction, hydrogen-bond interaction and physical adsorption existed between functional groups of composites. The tensile strength and the initial decomposition temperature ( Td-5%) of Ac-BF/PBS increased by 18% and 12.2℃, respectively, due to the fiber acetoxylation.
Modeling of tensile properties, dispersion studies, and hardness evaluation of Cloisite 30B in polypropylene with Elvaloy AC 3427 as compatibilizer
Authors: Jafrey Daniel D , Panneerselvam K
Published: November 2015

The engineering applications of thermoplastics have been increased in the last few years by blending the thermoplastic polymer with fillers, which is a common methodology to develop thermoplastic polymer with boosted properties. In this investigation, the polypropylene thermoplastic polymer and Cloisite 30B (1, 2, 3, and 5 wt. %) as a nano filler with Elvaloy AC 3427 were mixed using Twin screw. The Elvaloy AC 3427 was used as a compatibilizer to enhance the dispersion of Cloisite 30B in polypropylene matrix. The polypropylene/Cloisite 30B/Elvaloy AC 3427 nanocomposite was investigated with X-ray diffraction shows an increase in d-spacing with an intercalated structure. Polypropylene/Cloisite 30B/Elvaloy AC 3427 nanocomposite was mechanically and metallurgically characterized. To validate the tensile properties of polypropylene/Cloisite 30B/Elvaloy AC 3427 nanocomposites, different mathematical modeling was used. The result shows an improvement in properties due to the fine dispersion of Cloisite 30B in polypropylene matrix in the presence of Elvaloy AC 3427 compatibilizer, and the same was justified with Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy.
Dynamic precision analysis and experimental verification of high-speed precision punch press
Authors: Hu Fengfeng , Sun Yu , Peng Binbin
Published: November 2015

In order to investigate the impact factors and their affection on high-speed precision multilink punch press (MPP), the dynamic model with different joint clearance was established, and the influence of different clearance and speed on the dynamic positional repeatability of bottom dead center (BDC) was analyzed. The elastic dynamic model of high-speed MPP was established, the affection of the elastic deformation and elastic wave on the positional repeatability of the BDC were presented by using modal superposition method to solve dynamic equation. Meanwhile, experiments on the dynamic repeatability of the BDC of the punch during working were completed. At last, the comparison of the experimental results with the analyzed results was given, and based on which, it can be concluded that the clearance, elastic wave and deformation are the key factors of the dynamic repeatability precision of the BDC.
A parameterized Doppler distorted matching model for periodic fault identification in locomotive bearing
Authors: Shen Changqing , Cai Gaigai , He Zhiyong , Huang Weiguo , Zhu Zhongkui
Published: November 2015

The locomotive bearings support the whole weight of the train under the high speed and its continuous running is a key factor of the train safety. The collected Doppler distorted signal greatly increases the difficulties in detecting the whelmed fault information. To overcome this disadvantage, a novel Doppler distorted correlation matching model using the single side Laplace wavelet and acoustic theories is constructed to recognize the bearing fault-related impulse intervals. The parameterized Doppler distorted model is assessed by the correlation coefficient with the bearing fault signal in waveform. The optimal Doppler distorted model, that is the Doppler distorted correlation matching model which matches the fault component in the acoustic signal could be used for identifying the fault impulse interval. Then, the bearing fault can be successfully detected from the parameters of the Doppler distorted correlation matching model due to its maximum similarity to the real signal. Except for the simulation study, the proposed model is also employed to match the fault components in some real acoustic bearing fault signals. The recognized fault impulse period in the Doppler distorted correlation matching model’s initial model keep in good accordance with the correct fault impacts, which represent the locomotive bearing fault characteristics.
Damage detection in cantilever beams using spatial Fourier coefficients of augmented modes
Authors: Ganguli Ranjan , Gouravaraju Saipraneeth
Published: November 2015

A mode shape based damage detection method for a cantilever beam is proposed in this paper. The idea involves use of spatial Fourier series expansion of mode shapes. Mode shapes of a cantilever beam are not periodic in nature. However, by taking their mirror image about the fixed end, an augmented periodic mode can be created which permits spatial Fourier analysis. It is observed using finite element simulations that damage has a considerable impact on the spatial Fourier coefficients of the mode shapes of a damaged beam. It is also found that the Fourier coefficients are sensitive to intensity of damage and its location on the beam. Sensitivity of the Fourier coefficients in presence of noise is also analyzed and they are found to be effective in indicating the damage.
Effect of a cross-flow perforated tube on pressure pulsation and pressure loss in a reciprocating compressor piping system
Authors: Liu Zhan , Cheng Junming , Feng Quanke , Yu Xiaoling
Published: November 2015

This paper experimentally investigates the effects of a cross-flow perforated tube on the pressure pulsation attenuation and pressure loss in a reciprocating compressor piping network, with particular focus on the structure parameters and installation positions. The results demonstrate that significant pressure fluctuation attenuation and less pressure loss in the whole piping system can be achieved when a well-designed cross-flow perforated tube is installed downstream of the pulsating bottle. The pressure pulsation is reduced as the perforated rate decreases and as the perforated tube length increases, while the hole diameter has little effect upon the pulsation attenuation. In the aspect of reducing pressure loss, the perforated rate should be larger than 0.05 and the hole diameter should be larger than 8 mm. In addition, a pressure pulsation computation model based on the linear acoustic wave theory and transfer matrix method is developed to predict the pulsating pressure in compressor piping systems with an installed cross-flow perforated tube. With favorable agreement between the model prediction and the present experimental results (maximum deviation within 6.8%), the predicted pulsating pressure can be attenuated for the reciprocating compressor piping system with various compressor speeds when a cross-flow perforated tube is reasonably designed and installed.
Investigator Experiences and Attitudes About Research With Biospecimens
Authors: Rivera Suzanne M. , Goldenberg Aaron , Rosenthal Beth , Aungst Heide , Maschke Karen J. , Rothwell Erin , Anderson Rebecca A. , Botkin Jeffrey , Joffe Steven
Published: November 2015

To advance scientific knowledge about human diseases and effective therapeutic treatments, investigators need access to human biospecimens and associated data. However, regulatory and procedural requirements may impede investigators’ efforts to share biospecimens and data within and across institutions. Although a number of studies have explored experiences and attitudes of study participants and others about biospecimen and data sharing, less is known about investigators’ perspectives. We conducted an electronic survey to learn about investigators’ experiences and attitudes about research with biospecimens and associated data. A total of 114 practicing scientists from a pool of 60 university medical schools with Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs) funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) participated. We found a high degree of variability in investigators’ experiences with institutional review boards (IRBs) when seeking approval to conduct biospecimen research, as well as differences in approaches to informed consent for the collection of specimens. Participants also expressed concerns that the risks of biospecimen research may be overestimated by IRBs. This research suggests that the current regulatory environment for human research protections may require reconsideration with regard to standards for collection, use, and sharing of biospecimens and data.
Readability and Understanding of Informed Consent Among Participants With Low Incomes
Authors: Ittenbach Richard F. , Senft Elizabeth C. , Huang Guixia , Corsmo Jeremy J. , Sieber Joan E.
Published: November 2015

With passage and implementation of the Affordable Health Care Act, more vulnerable segments of the U.S. population will now have access to regular health care and increased opportunities to participate in biomedical research. Yet, access to new groups brings with it new responsibilities for investigators, most importantly, reducing burdens for participants. Data collected through this small pilot study suggest several preliminary but potentially important findings when working with adults from low-income populations: First, while all participants read some parts of the consent forms (55%), only a minority reported reading the entire form (45%); second, 73% of participants reported understanding the study very well whereas only 27% reported understanding the study “a little”; third, there was a slight reported advantage of the simplified form over the regular form; however, this difference varied by section. Relatedly, other research has shown a high incidence of persons reading none of the consent form, but signing a statement that they have read and understood the study. Why does this occur? What are we teaching people when we request that they sign a consent form they have chosen not to read? What are the ethical and regulatory implications? Embedded ethics studies such as this one, although pilot and preliminary in nature, offer a number of advantages, such as stimulating additional scientific inquiry as well as challenging established institutional practices.
Management of cardiac arrest survivors in UK intensive care units: a survey of practice
Authors: Ford AH , Clark T , Reynolds EC , Ross C , Shelley K , Simmonds L , Benger J , Soar J , Nolan JP , Thomas M
Published: November 2015

Background

Cardiac arrest is a common presentation to intensive care units. There is evidence that management protocols between hospitals differ and that this variation is mirrored in patient outcomes between institutions, with standardised treatment protocols improving outcomes within individual units. It has been postulated that regionalisation of services may improve outcomes as has been shown in trauma, burns and stroke patients, however a national protocol has not been a focus for research. The objective of our study was to ascertain current management strategies for comatose post cardiac arrest survivors in intensive care in the United Kingdom.

Method

A telephone survey was carried out to establish the management of comatose post cardiac arrest survivors in UK intensive care units. All 235 UK intensive care units were contacted and 208 responses (89%) were received.

Results

A treatment protocol is used in 172 units (82.7%). Emergency cardiology services were available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in 54 (26%) hospitals; most units (123, 55.8%) transfer patients out for urgent coronary angiography. A ventilator care bundle is used in 197 units (94.7%) and 189 units (90.9%) have a policy for temperature management. Target temperature, duration and method of temperature control and rate of rewarming differ between units. Access to neurophysiology investigations was poor with 91 units (43.8%) reporting no availability.

Conclusions

Our results show that treatments available vary considerably between different UK institutions with only 28 units (13.5%) able to offer all aspects of care. This suggests the need for ‘cardiac arrest care bundles’ and regional centres to ensure cardiac arrests survivors have access to appropriate care.
Pragmatic Content in Global and Local ELT Textbooks
Authors: Meihami Hussein , Khanlarzadeh Mobin
Published: November 2015

This study is an attempt to explore the frequency of pragmatic content occurrence represented as three speech acts of requesting, refusing, and apologizing in global and local English Language Teaching (ELT) textbooks. Three global elementary ELT textbooks, namely Interchange, Top Notch, and American English File along with the local elementary textbooks of Iran Language Institute (ILI) Series, were examined for their pragmatic content. To analyze the pragmatic content of these textbooks, the researchers used three different frameworks. The results indicated that while both global and local ELT textbooks shared a sufficient number of speech acts of request and refusal, they failed to pay enough attention to the speech act of apology regarding its frequency and the strategies through which it is performed. To sum, the findings of this study highlight the differences in the frequency of different speech acts and the strategies used to perform them in global and local elementary ELT textbooks, which bear some implications for ELT textbook developers and language instructors.
Ebola Care and Lack of Consensus on Personal Protective Respiratory Equipment
Authors: Hanoa R. O. , Moen B. E.
Published: November 2015

The Ebola epidemic in West Africa presents a considerable occupational risk to the health personnel involved. The principal mode of virus transmission to health care personnel is through direct contact with the patient, although transmission by aerosols through the air may also occur. Many safety protocols have been suggested relating to personal protection and particularly respiratory protection. It is generally agreed that all health care workers should have easy access to personal protective equipment. However, the degree of respiratory safety escalates from a mask, to an adequate respirator, and finally to a whole body suit with integrated helmet and positive air pressure. Recent publications demonstrate a lack of consensus on the degree of safety necessary. The step from “safe enough” to being “absolutely safe” seems, in most countries, insurmountable because of costs and logistics.
Fostering job search among older workers: the case for pension reform
Authors: García-Pérez J. Ignacio , Sánchez-Martín Alfonso R.
Published: November 2015

Employment rates among senior workers (aged 55 or over) in southern Europe are among the lowest in OECD economies. Spain is a paradigmatic example, with high unemployment rates and very low workforce reentry rates for unemployed workers. Poor demand is typically blamed for this problem, but the interaction of pension rules and unemployment insurance may also play an important role in this outcome. Generous unemployment benefits, lax search requirements for the unemployed and strong early retirement penalties imposed on “regular” retirees effectively create an alternative path to early retirement.

In this paper, we explore this alternative path quantitatively. We develop a model of job search and retirement behavior, calibrate it to the specificities of the Spanish case and verify its empirical validity in a large administrative dataset of employment histories. We then explore the effectiveness of pension reform in increasing the labor supply and overall welfare. We link early retirement penalties to the age at which an individual stops paying contributions. This reform removes the incentives to remain unemployed without searching and thus encourages individuals to either retire or actively engage in job seeking. The reform also leads to significant welfare losses, especially among the previously non-participating unemployed who are close to the early retirement age; however, the reform also raises sufficient additional resources that public authorities can use to compensate all affected workers.

JEL codes

J64; J68; J26
Migration magnet: the role of work experience in rural–urban wage differentials
Authors: Michaelsen Maren M. , Haisken-DeNew John P.
Published: November 2015

This study uses the nationally representative Mexican Family Life Survey (MxFLS) to identify systematic differences in earnings returns to human capital endowments for formal and informal sector workers in rural and urban Mexico. Returns to experience are critical in explaining the large urban wage gap in a Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition and indeed drive pull migration from the rural informal sector to the urban informal sector, exacerbating urban population congestion in already over-crowded main cities. Targeted rural industrial planning is essential to offset pull migration and ensure a more balanced urban/rural development through incentives.

JEL classification:J24, J31, R23, Q15
An exploration of testosterone levels in patients with bipolar disorder
Authors: Wooderson Sarah C. , Gallagher Peter , Watson Stuart , Young Allan H.
Published: November 2015

Background

Testosterone influences well-being, mood and cognition and may play a role in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder.

Aim

To examine testosterone levels in patients with bipolar disorder compared with healthy controls.

Method

We examined baseline total testosterone levels and current depression scores in male and female patients with bipolar disorder and mild to moderate depression and healthy controls.

Results

A significant interaction between diagnosis and gender was observed (F(2,97)=9.791, P=0.002). Testosterone levels were significantly lower for male patients with bipolar disorder compared with male controls (P=0.001). Women with bipolar disorder had significantly higher testosterone levels than female controls (P=0.03).

Conclusions

Disturbances in testosterone levels may represent an important neurobiological abnormality in bipolar disorder and may differ by gender. If these findings are confirmed, the use of gender appropriate treatment strategies for the normalisation of testosterone levels in bipolar disorder depression should be further explored.
Down, But Not Out: Partial Elimination of Androgen Receptors in the Male Mouse Brain Does Not Affect Androgenic Regulation of Anxiety or HPA Activity
Authors: Chen Chieh V. , Brummet Jennifer L. , Jordan Cynthia L. , Breedlove S. Marc
Published: November 2015

We previously found that androgen receptor (AR) activity mediates two effects of T in adult male mice: reduction of anxiety-like behaviors and dampening of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal response to stress. To determine whether brain ARs mediate these effects, we used the Cre/loxP technology seeking to disable AR throughout the central nervous system (CNS). Female mice carrying the floxed AR allele (ARlox) were crossed with males carrying cre recombinase transgene controlled by the nestin promoter (NesCre), producing cre in developing neurons and glia. Among male offspring, four genotypes resulted: males carrying ARlox and NesCre (NesARko), and three control groups (wild types, NesCre, and ARlox). Reporter mice indicated ubiquitous Cre expression throughout the CNS. Nevertheless, AR immunocytochemistry in NesARko mice revealed efficient knockout (KO) of AR in some brain regions (hippocampus and medial prefrontal cortex [mPFC]), but not others. Substantial AR protein was seen in the amygdala and hypothalamus among other regions, whereas negligible AR remained in others like the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and dorsal periaqueductal gray. This selective KO allowed for testing the role of AR in hippocampus and mPFC. Males were castrated and implanted with T at postnatal day 60 before testing on postnatal day 90–100. In contrast with males with global KO of AR, T still modulated anxiety-related behavior and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity in NesARko males. These results leave open the possibility that AR acting in the CNS mediates these effects of T, but demonstrate that AR is not required in the hippocampus or mPFC for T's anxiolytic effects.
XBP1 Regulates the Biosynthetic Capacity of the Mammary Gland During Lactation by Controlling Epithelial Expansion and Endoplasmic Reticulum Formation
Authors: Davis Kristen R. , Giesy Sarah L. , Long Qiaoming , Krumm Christopher S. , Harvatine Kevin J. , Boisclair Yves R.
Published: November 2015

Cells composing the mammary secretory compartment have evolved a high capacity to secrete not only proteins but also triglycerides and carbohydrates. This feature is illustrated by the mouse, which can secrete nearly twice its own weight in milk proteins, triglycerides and lactose over a short 20-day lactation. The coordination of synthesis and export of products in other secretory cells is orchestrated in part by the transcription factor X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1). To assess the role of XBP1 in mammary epithelial cells (MEC), we studied floxed XBP1 female mice lacking (wild type; WT) or expressing the Cre recombinase under the control of the ovine β-lactoglobulin promoter (ΔXBP1MEC). Pregnant ΔXBP1MEC females had morphologically normal mammary development and gave birth to the same number of pups as WT mice. Their litters, however, suffered a weight gain deficit by lactation day 3 (L3)3 that grew to 80% by L14. ΔXBP1MEC dams had only modest changes in milk composition (−21% protein, +24% triglyceride) and in the expression of associated genes in isolated MEC. By L5, WT glands were fully occupied by dilated alveoli, whereas ΔXBP1MEC glands contained fewer, mostly unfilled alveoli and retained a prominent adipocyte population. The smaller epithelial compartment in ΔXBP1MEC glands was explained by lower MEC proliferation and increased apoptosis. Finally, endoplasmic reticulum ribbons were less abundant in ΔXBP1MEC at pregnancy day 18 and failed to increase in abundance by L5. Collectively, these results show that XBP1 is required for MEC population expansion during lactation and its ability to develop an elaborate endoplasmic reticulum compartment.
Both Estrogen and Androgen Modify the Response to Activation of Neurokinin-3 and κ-Opioid Receptors in Arcuate Kisspeptin Neurons From Male Mice
Authors: Ruka Kristen A. , Burger Laura L. , Moenter Suzanne M.
Published: November 2015

Gonadal steroids regulate the pattern of GnRH secretion. Arcuate kisspeptin (kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin [KNDy]) neurons may convey steroid feedback to GnRH neurons. KNDy neurons increase action potential firing upon the activation of neurokinin B receptors (neurokinin-3 receptor [NK3R]) and decrease firing upon the activation of dynorphin receptors (κ-opioid receptor [KOR]). In KNDy neurons from intact vs castrated male mice, NK3R-mediated stimulation is attenuated and KOR-mediated inhibition enhanced, suggesting gonadal secretions are involved. Estradiol suppresses spontaneous GnRH neuron firing in male mice, but the mediators of the effects on firing in KNDy neurons are unknown. We hypothesized the same gonadal steroids affecting GnRH firing pattern would regulate KNDy neuron response to NK3R and KOR agonists. To test this possibility, extracellular recordings were made from KNDy neurons in brain slices from intact, untreated castrated or castrated adult male mice treated in vivo with steroid receptor agonists. As observed previously, the stimulation of KNDy neurons by the NK3R agonist senktide was attenuated in intact vs castrated mice and suppression by dynorphin was enhanced. In contrast to observations of steroid effects on the GnRH neuron firing pattern, both estradiol and DHT suppressed senktide-induced KNDy neuron firing and enhanced the inhibition caused by dynorphin. An estrogen receptor-α agonist but not an estrogen receptor-β agonist mimicked the effects of estradiol on NK3R activation. These observations suggest the steroid modulation of responses to activation of NK3R and KOR as mechanisms for negative feedback in KNDy neurons and support the contribution of these neurons to steroid-sensitive elements of a GnRH pulse generator.
Androgen Deficiency Exacerbates High-Fat Diet-Induced Metabolic Alterations in Male Mice
Authors: Dubois Vanessa , Laurent Michaël R. , Jardi Ferran , Antonio Leen , Lemaire Katleen , Goyvaerts Lotte , Deldicque Louise , Carmeliet Geert , Decallonne Brigitte , Vanderschueren Dirk , Claessens Frank
Published: November 2015

Androgen deficiency is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes mellitus in men, but the mechanisms behind these associations remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the combined effects of androgen deficiency and high-fat diet (HFD) on body composition and glucose homeostasis in C57BL/6J male mice. Two models of androgen deficiency were used: orchidectomy (ORX) and androgen receptor knockout mice. Both models displayed higher adiposity and serum leptin levels upon HFD, whereas no differences were seen on a regular diet. Fat accumulation in HFD ORX animals was accompanied by increased sedentary behavior and occurred in spite of reduced food intake. HFD ORX mice showed white adipocyte hypertrophy, correlated with decreased mitochondrial content but not function as well as increased lipogenesis and decreased lipolysis suggested by the up-regulation of fatty acid synthase and the down-regulation of hormone-sensitive lipase. Both ORX and androgen receptor knockout exacerbated HFD-induced glucose intolerance by impairing insulin action in liver and skeletal muscle, as evidenced by the increased triglyceride and decreased glycogen content in these tissues. In addition, serum IL-1β levels were elevated, and pancreatic insulin secretion was impaired after ORX. Testosterone but not dihydrotestosterone supplementation restored the castration effects on body composition and glucose homeostasis. We conclude that sex steroid deficiency in combination with HFD exacerbates adiposity, insulin resistance, and β-cell failure in 2 preclinical male mouse models. Our findings stress the importance of a healthy diet in a clinical context of androgen deficiency and may have implications for the prevention of metabolic alterations in hypogonadal men.
Large-amplitude vibration of imperfect angleply laminated rectangular plates with four boundary conditions
Authors: Huang He , Hui David
Published: November 2015

This paper solves the modified-Duffing ordinary differential equation for the largeamplitude vibration problem of imperfect angle-ply laminated rectangular plate. Two inplane and two out-of-plane constraints are considered to form four boundary conditions. The initial condition is chosen to be initial vibration amplitude. To solve this angle-ply laminated rectangular plate vibration problem, Lindstedt’s perturbation technique and Runge-Kutta method are applied. The solution from both methods are plotted and compared for a validity check. Lindstedt’s perturbation technique is proved to be accurate for a sufficiently small vibration amplitude especially when imperfection exists. The results from Runge-Kutta method are plotted to form the typical backbone curves.
Impact of dynamic slippage on productivity of shale reservoirs
Authors: Patwardhan Samarth D. , Bhore Niranjan , Banerjee Anirban , Kumar G. Suresh
Published: November 2015

Ultra low permeability rocks such as shales exhibit complex fracture networks which must be discretely characterized in our reservoir models to evaluate stimulation designs and completion strategies properly. The pressure (Darcy’s law) and composition driven (Fick’s law) flow mechanisms when combined result in composition, pressure and saturationdependent slippage factor. The approach used in this study is to utilize pressure-dependent transmissibility multipliers to incorporate apparent gas-permeability changes resulting from multi-mechanism flows in commercial simulators. This work further expounds on the effectiveness of the theory by presenting a descriptive analysis between two commercially utilized numerical simulators. The applicability of dynamic slippage as an effective flow mechanism governing gas flow mechanisms within the computational environment of two different simulators is attempted in this analysis. Results indicate that slippage-governed flow in modelling shale reservoirs should not be ignored.
Modelling and finite element analysis of turning tables of micro-controller based versatile machine tools desktop learning module
Authors: Samotu Ibraheem A. , Anafi Fatai O. , Dauda Muhammad , Ahmed Abdulkarim S. , Bako Raymond B. , Obada David O.
Published: November 2015

The general-purpose engine lathe is the most basic turning machine tool. As with all lathes, the two basic requirements for turning are a means of holding the workpiece while it rotates as well as a means of holding cutting tools and moving them relatively to the workpiece. In this paper, we present the results of finite element analysis (FEA) performed to investigate nature of stress and their distribution at optimum point along the two turning tables of a micro-controller based versatile machine tool desktop learning module. Commercial Autodesk Inventor was used to create both three-dimensional (3D) and 2D models as well as performing simulation. Dynamics simulation generated the motion load expected to act on the tables when used for real-life operation which were in turn used to perform the FEA. The motion of the DC stepper motor driving the tables and other parts of the module is designed to be controlled by programmable chips. Before creating FEA simulation for the tables, numerical divergence were prevented by varying the mesh settings to obtain the settings at which the results of the analyses converges which was obtained at 0.03 average element size and 0.04 minimum element size. Finite element analysis carried out on the tables shows that aluminium alloy 4032-T6 chosen will serve in the fabrication of physical prototype. FEA revealed the nature and level of stresses that will be experienced on the tables, it also revealed region where these stresses will concentrate on them. The analysis also estimated the expected weight of the turning tables 1&2 to be 1.23536 and 0.257182 kg respectively and show that the minimum factor of safety was constantly 15 ul within the tables which means that they will not fail during operation.
A Theory of Propositions
Authors: Smith Nicholas J.J.
Published: November 2015

In this paper I present a new theory of propositions, according to which propositions are abstract mathematical objects: well-formed formulas together with models. I distinguish the theory from a number of existing views and explain some of its advantages  chief amongst which are the following. On this view, propositions are unified and intrinsically truth-bearing. They are mind- and language-independent and they are governed by logic. The theory of propositions is ontologically innocent. It makes room for an appropriate interface with formal semantics and it does not enforce an overly fine or overly coarse level of granularity.
Leadership and Incentives
Authors: Cappelen Alexander W. , Reme Bjørn-Atle , Sørensen Erik Ø. , Tungodden Bertil
Published: November 2015

We study how leader compensation affects public goods provision. We report from a lab experiment with four treatments, where the base treatment was a standard public goods game with simultaneous contribution decisions, and the three other treatments allowed participants to volunteer to be the leader in their group and make their contribution before the others. In the three leader treatments, we manipulated the level of compensation given to the leader. Our main finding is that a moderate compensation to the leader is beneficial; it increases the average contribution relative to both a situation where the leader is not compensated and a situation without a leader. A further increase in the leader compensation, however, is detrimental to public goods provision; it attracts more free riders and creates a social crowding-out effect. Finally, we report from a survey showing that the social crowding-out effect is also present in the population at large. We argue that the main findings of the paper are important in many real-life settings where we would like to use economic incentives to encourage people to lead by example.

This paper was accepted by Uri Gneezy, behavioral economics.
Coordination with Local Information
Authors: Dahleh Munther A. , Tahbaz-Salehi Alireza , Tsitsiklis John N. , Zoumpoulis Spyros I.
Published: November 2015

We study the role of local information channels in enabling coordination among strategic agents. Building on the standard finite-player global games framework, we show that the set of equilibria of a coordination game is highly sensitive to how information is locally shared among different agents. In particular, we show that the coordination game has multiple equilibria if there exists a collection of agents such that (i) they do not share a common signal with any agent outside of that collection and (ii) their information sets form an increasing sequence of nested sets. Our results thus extend the results on the uniqueness and multiplicity of equilibria beyond the well-known cases in which agents have access to purely private or public signals. We then provide a characterization of the set of equilibria as a function of the penetration of local information channels. We show that the set of equilibria shrinks as information becomes more decentralized.
How important are AEDs in community schools?
Authors: Tate Ruth
Published: November 2015

In our September issue, we featured an article about automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in the community. In response, we received a letter from a nurse who was recently involved in the decision about whether or not to acquire an AED for her son's primary school. We share her thoughts here.
A look at phase-III cardiac rehabilitation and the complexity of patient care
Authors: Fallon Noeleen , McKee Gabrielle , Quirke Mary , Flynn Nora , Finn Caroline
Published: November 2015

This study aims to explore problems and outcomes that occurred during well-attended phase-III cardiac rehabilitation programmes.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, single-site study that extracted data from case notes on all patients who attended phase III over 1 year.

Results:

The study included 227 patients, 75% of which were males, and an average age of 61 years; 69% had acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and attendance was 81%. Risk factor target levels were achieved in the following proportions: hypertension, 99%; LDL, 75%; anxiety, 97%; depression, 99%; and obesity, 30%. A total of 1246 additional problems (average 5.5 per patient) were addressed. These included chest pain, arrhythmias, hypotension, dizziness and light-headedness.

Conclusion:

The use of an individualised, holistic approach, and addressing the additional problems that arose during cardiac rehabilitation proved effective in delivering a well-attended programme, with successful patient outcomes. However, it did stretch the team and success may be difficult to sustain.
Heart failure care for patients who do not speak English
Authors: Brennan Emma Jane
Published: November 2015

Heart failure affects 1-2% of the UK population with prevalence rates predicted to rise over the next decade. Ineffective education for patients with heart failure can lead to a failure to adhere to guidance, reduced self-care and increased hospital readmissions. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have issued clear guidelines on patient-centred care in heart failure, particularly in relation to patients' cultural and linguistic needs. Patients with heart failure should have access to an interpreter or advocate if needed. Furthermore, heart failure educational materials should be tailored to suit the individual and be accessible to people who do not speak or read English. This article explores the practice recommendations for these patients with heart failure and provides an overview of current guidelines associated with optimal patient outcomes. It also includes practical advice on translation services, and information and educational materials available for patients with heart failure who do not speak English.
New language controls for European nurses and midwives
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: November 2015

Emeritus professor Alan Glasper, of the University of Southampton, discusses the new initiative by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) to ensure that all registrants have a sufficient grasp of the English language to fulfil the requirements of the Code
Health and adult social care in England: patient safety failings
Authors: Tingle John
Published: November 2015

John Tingle discusses the Care Quality Commission's recent analysis of health and social care in England as it relates to the safety of acute NHS hospitals
A 6 month evaluation of a non-powered hybrid mattress replacement system
Authors: Newton Heather
Published: November 2015

In 2013, the Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust undertook a 6-week evaluation of the AtmosAir 4000 non-powered reactive pressure redistribution mattress replacement system to determine its suitability in supporting the prevention of pressure ulcers in high-risk patients (phase one). The results demonstrated that the AtmosAir 4000 mattress system, together with skin assessment and repositioning regimes, met the pressure ulcer preventative needs of patients at high and very high risk of developing pressure ulcers. It also resulted in a notable reduction in the use of dynamic air mattresses. Consequently, 50 AtmosAir 4000 mattresses were purchased for two acute medical wards in the evaluation site, where the majority of patients are elderly with an acute medical condition. This article discusses the second phase where an audit compares the number of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers reported over a 6-month period with the equivalent time period in 2014. Results show that the number of pressure ulcers reduced by 65% and 50% in the two wards. The number of dynamic mattresses used on the two wards reduced significantly from 28 to 7, which represents a 75% reduction in usage.
Effect of a new compression garment on adherence: results of a patient satisfaction survey
Authors: Münter Christian
Published: November 2015

Traditionally, knee-high compression stockings apply a slightly higher pressure at the top band to keep them in place. However, some patients find this uncomfortable, which can affect adherence. The Jobst Opaque SoftFit stocking contains a silicone yarn in the top band, which is designed to keep it in place without exerting extra pressure. A survey was undertaken to determine if the SoftFit stocking was more acceptable to patients than the compression stockings they had worn previously, and to identify its effects on the symptoms of chronic venous disease (CVD).

Patients with CVD living in the community were recruited from four federal states in Germany. They wore the test stocking for 7 days. Data collected on days 1 and 7 compared their perceptions of the test stocking with those of the conventional compression stockings worn previously. The results showed that, compared with the previous stockings used, the majority of patients considered the test stocking to be more comfortable at the top band and more likely to stay in place, while many no longer experienced some of the clinical symptoms of CVD such as heavy legs, pain in the legs and itching or dry skin.
Re-Writing Avantgarde: Fortschritt, Utopie, Kollektiv und Partizipation in der Performance-Kunst
Authors: Geldmacher Pamela
Published: November 2015

Ist die historische Avantgarde noch zu retten? Trotz der historischen Distanz und ihres vermeintlichen Endes nimmt Pamela Geldmacher die Spuren der Avantgarde erneut auf. Fortschritt, Utopie, Kollektiv und Partizipation werden dabei als zentrale Parameter der klassischen Avantgarde herausgearbeitet und in ihrer Relevanz für zeitgenössische Performance-Kollektive nachgewiesen. So wird eine Reformulierung der Avantgarde entworfen, die sich im Vollzug ästhetischer Prozessualität realisiert.
Detecting red heart in beech (Fagus sylvatica) through electric resistance and voltage measurements
Authors: GÖNCZ Balázs , DIVÓS Ferenc
Published: November 2015

A bükkfa egyik legjelentősebb esztétikai hibája az álgeszt, melynek elektromos tulajdonságai is eltérnek az egészséges faanyagétól. Ez lehetőséget kínál az álgeszt elektromos ellenállás mérésen alapuló vizsgálatára. Az álgeszt kimutatására irányuló vizsgálataink során először egy 24 csatornás impedancia tomográffal vizsgáltunk bükk törzseket. A jelentősen alacsonyabb ellenállású álgesztes farész jól kirajzolódott a tomográffal előállított ellenállás-térképeken, és jó egyezést mutatott a vágásképen látható álgeszt méretével és alakjával. 8 érzékelővel végzett laboratóriumi előkísérletek segítségével megállapítottuk a legelőnyösebb elektróda-elrendezést, aminek a segítségével a terepen gyorsan és egyszerűen lehet vizsgálni az álgeszt jelenlétét. A tapasztalatok alapján a terepi vizsgálatokhoz kifejlesztett műszer egyértelműen alkalmasnak bizonyult az álgeszt jelenlétének a kimutatására, azonban annak kiterjedését nem lehetett vele megbízhatóan megállapítani. A vizsgált átmérő tartományban a feszültség csak igen kis mértékben függ az átmérőtől, a vizsgálat az átmérőtől függetlenül megbízható, nincs szükség átmérő szerinti korrekcióra.
Online Communication in a Second Language: Social Interaction, Language Use and Learning Japanese; Author: Sarah E. Pasfield-Neofitou, Publisher: Multilingual Matters, 2012, ISBN:978-1847698247, Pages: 238
Authors: Krajka Jarosław
Published: November 2015

Book Review