bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of periodic wakes on the endwall secondary flow in high-lift low-pressure turbine cascades at low Reynolds numbers
Authors: Qu Xiao , Zhang Yanfeng , Lu Xingen , Han Ge , Li Ziliang , Zhu Junqiang
Published: September 2017

Periodic wakes affect not only the surface boundary layer characteristics of low-pressure turbine blades and profile losses but also the vortex structures of the secondary flow and the corresponding losses. Thus, understanding the physical mechanisms of unsteady interactions and the potential to eliminate secondary losses is becoming increasingly important for improving the performance of high-lift low-pressure turbines. However, few studies have focused on the unsteady interaction mechanism between periodic wakes and endwall secondary flow in low-pressure turbines. This paper verified the accuracy of computational fluid dynamics by comparing experimental results and those of the numerical predictions by taking a high-lift low-pressure turbine cascade as the research object. Discussion was focused on the interaction mechanisms between the upstream wakes and secondary flow within the high-lift low-pressure turbine. The results indicated that upstream wakes have both positive and negative effects on the endwall flow, where the periodic wakes can decrease significantly the size of the separation bubble, prevent the formation of secondary vorticity structures at relatively high Reynolds numbers (100,000 and 150,000), and reduce the cross-passage pressure gradient of cascade. In addition, periodic wakes can improve the cascade incidence characteristic in terms of reducing the overturning and underturning of the secondary flow at downstream of the cascade all of which are beneficial for decreasing the endwall secondary losses, whereas more endwall boundary layer is involved in the main flow passage due to the wake transport, resulting in increased strength of the secondary flow at low Reynolds number of 25,000 and 50,000. Compared with the results without wakes, the total pressure loss for unsteady condition at the cascade exit decreases by 2.7% and 6.1% at high Reynolds number of 100,000 and 150,000, respectively. However, the secondary loss at unsteady flow conditions increases at low Reynolds number of 25,000 and 50,000.
Biomechanical comparison of supraacetabular external fixation and anterior pelvic bridge plating
Authors: Çavuşoğlu Ali Turgay , Erbay Fatma Kübra , Özsoy Mehmet Hakan , Demir Teyfik
Published: September 2017

Unstable pelvic ring injuries are complex and risky injuries due to high morbidity and mortality. Although anterior pelvic external fixator is a suitable method for rapid stabilization of an injured pelvic ring, due to some disadvantages such as high complication rate, nerve damage, and difficulties of patient’s mobility and comfort, there has recently been increased searching for alternative methods for stabilization of the pelvic ring. Pubic symphysis zone freely moves in pelvic models. This study aims to evaluate the biomechanical stability of anterior pelvic bridge plating and compare it with supraacetabular external fixators in an untreated unstable pelvic fracture model. Samples were loaded statically with 2-mm/min loading rate in single leg standing position. Maximum load was 2.3 kN. When loading the samples, photographs were taken continuously. Stiffness values were calculated from the load displacement curves. Some reference parameters were described and were measured from unloaded and 2.3-kN-loaded photographs of the test. The mean stiffness values were 491.14 ± 52.22, 478.55 ± 41.44, and 470.25 ± 44.51 N/mm for anterior pelvic bridge plating group, supraacetabular external fixator group, and Control group, respectively. According to the measured parameters from photographs, the mean displacement at the pubic symphysis was 4.7 ± 0.32, 15.8 ± 2.01, and 18.2 ± 0.47 mm for anterior pelvic bridge plating, supraacetabular external fixator, and Control group, respectively. The highest displacement in the pubic symphysis was found in Control group, and minimum displacement was observed in anterior pelvic bridge plating group. When the perpendicular distance between the right and left lower end of ischium was examined, it was observed that displacement was minimum in anterior pelvic bridge plating group compared to other two groups, regarding to the high stability of pubic symphysis. In conclusion, this study revealed superiority of anterior subcutaneous plate fixation with biomechanical results.
Positive psychology’s promise of happiness: A new form of human capital in contemporary neoliberal governmentality
Authors: De La Fabián Rodrigo , Stecher Antonio
Published: September 2017

The article seeks to contribute to governmentality studies by looking anew at the subjectivities posited by neoliberalism and especially by positive psychology. Focusing in particular on Sam Binkley’s critical work on this psychological sub-discipline, we offer a political analysis of the new ways of becoming a subject it proposes. For Binkley, positive psychology operates as a subjectivising vector by promoting a specific kind of work on oneself. His approach, we suggest, rests on a conception that relies on the classical disjunction between production and effort, on the one hand, and consumption and satisfaction, on the other. With references to Foucault, Marx, Becker, and Schultz’s conceptions of work and subjectivity, the article shows that positive psychology’s novelty is to enable a new happy subjective perspective from where happiness, rather than a long-term objective, is considered to be a precondition of work, a radical new form of human capital.
Involvement of atrial natriuretic peptide in abrogated cardioprotective effect of ischemic preconditioning in ovariectomized rat heart
Authors: Vishwakarma VK , Goyal A , Gupta JK , Upadhyay PK , Yadav HN
Published: September 2017

Background:

Nitric oxide (NO) is an effective mediator of ischemic preconditioning (IPC)-induced cardioprotection. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is downregulated after ovariectomy, which results in reduction in the level of NO. The present study deals with the investigation of the role of ANP in abrogated cardioprotective effect of IPC in the ovariectomized rat heart.

Methods:

Heart was isolated from ovariectomized rat and mounted on Langendorff’s apparatus, subjected to 30 min of ischemia and 120 min of reperfusion. IPC was given by four cycles of 5 min of ischemia and 5 min of reperfusion with Krebs–Henseleit solution. The myocardial infract size was estimated employing triphenyltetrazolium chloride stain, and coronary effluent was analyzed for creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release to consider the degree of myocardial injury. The cardiac release of NO was estimated by measuring the level of nitrite in coronary effluent.

Results:

IPC-mediated cardioprotection was significantly attenuated in ovariectomized rat as compared to normal rat, which was restored by perfusion with ANP. However, this observed cardioprotection was significantly attenuated by perfusion with L-NAME, an endothelial nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, and Glibenclamide, a KATP channel blocker, alone or in combination noted in terms of increase in myocardial infract size, release of CK-MB and LDH, and also decrease in release of NO.

Conclusion:

Thus, it is suggested that ANP restores the attenuated cardioprotective effect of IPC in the ovariectomized rat heart which may be due to increase in the availability of NO and consequent increase activation of mitochondrial KATP channels.
Fish-oil-derived eicosapentaenoic acid decreases survivin expression and induces wt-p53 accumulation with caspase-3 activation in acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells
Authors: Sam MR , Esmaeillou M , Sam S , Shokrgozar MA
Published: September 2017

Background:

Defects in modulating wild-type (wt) p53 and survivin are associated with a resistant disease in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Yet, no wt-p53 and survivin modulating drugs have been approved for clinical application in ALL. Here, we investigated if in vitro eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations equal to human plasma levels are able to target wt-p53 and survivin.

Methods:

Wt-p53 Molt-4 cells (ALL cell line) were treated with 50, 100, 150, and 200 µM of EPA after which cell number, viability, proliferation rate, survivin expression, wt-p53 accumulation, caspase-3 activation, and apoptosis were evaluated.

Results:

After 48- and 72-h treatments with EPA at concentrations ranging from 50 to 200 µM, cell proliferation rates were measured to be 71.5–32.6% and 68.2–13.7% and metabolic activities were measured to be 77–44% and 71–26%, respectively. Treatment with 50–200 µM of EPA for 48 h resulted in 14.1–74.6% and 69.5–45.5% decreases in survivin mRNA and protein levels, respectively. EPA induced 1.3–6 and 1.9–20-fold increases in caspase-3 activation and wt-p53 accumulation, respectively. Increase in wt-p53/survivin and caspase-3/survivin ratios from 1 in untreated cells to 20.3 and 5.8 was measured for 150 µM of EPA. Low necrotic rates ranging from 0.3% to 2.8% and an increase in the number of total apoptotic cells (early + late) ranging from 9.8% to 81% were also observed with increasing EPA concentrations.

Conclusion:

EPA induces strongly wt-p53 with a remarkable decrease in survivin expression, representing an attractive compound to modulate wt-p53 and survivin in ALL cells.
Culture, humility and the law: Towards a more transformative teaching framework
Authors: Hamman Evan
Published: September 2017

Cultural competency has proven less effective than its proponents had envisioned. Disciplines outside of the law (social work, health and psychology) have turned to the more powerful theory of ‘cultural humility’ – a framework for lifelong learning and self-reflection. Cultural humility contends that one can never really ‘master’ another’s culture, but that we ought to remain respectful and reflective in our approach. In this article I make the case for teaching cultural humility in Australian law schools.
An ‘absolute right to do anything’: Protest policing in NSW's last decade of a full-time riot squad
Authors: White Christina
Published: September 2017

This article evaluates the way in which the New South Wales Public Order and Riot Squad has been used to police political protests. The use of force, strategic arrests and protection of business interests can be seen across local protests, as well as larger international events. It is argued that the shift towards paramilitary policing is having profound impacts on the policing of protests at all levels. The Public Order and Riot Squad does not just target the risk that it was designed to combat (extreme riots) and the risk which is often thought to be its justification (counter-terrorism). The article also considers the statutory framework for authorising protests, arguing that it is not just police tactics that support the status quo, but also the supposedly neutral method of evaluating public safety.
The Disproportional Representation of English Language Learners in Gifted and Talented Programs in Texas
Authors: Coronado Jennifer M. , Lewis Katie D.
Published: September 2017

The U.S. public K-12 student population experienced a significant increase in the number of English language learners (ELLs) since 2010. Public schools responded to this change in demographics by increasing their services for ELLs; however, many were not initially prepared for this change. Within the field of gifted education, there is a concern that the numbers of identified gifted ELLs has not increased in proportion to the total student population of English language learners. According to the 1971 “Marland Report to Congress,” the identified gifted population should be representative of the total student population and any subgroups, including ELLs. This study examined the 2015-2016 student data in Texas, and findings indicate a disproportional representation of ELLs in gifted and talented programs across the state.
Is Your Gifted Child Ready for Online Learning?
Authors: Potts Jessica Alison , Potts Skip
Published: September 2017

Virtual classrooms, which have grown at an unprecedented rate in recent years, represent a unique opportunity for gifted students who do not have appropriate educational options in their brick-and-mortar schools. Students who are engaged in online learning have access to flexible, high quality curricula and can be grouped with their intellectual peers. However, parents who are interested in online learning for their children should first take the time to comprehensively evaluate whether an online program is actually a good fit. Mismatches in maturity, time management, technological ability, communication techniques, reading comprehension, and other characteristics can create frustration for students, parents, and teachers. This article presents parents with 10 questions that can help them to determine whether their child is ready for online education. Online learning should be celebrated as a flexible medium for gifted education, as it offers this special population flexibility, choice, and intellectual challenges. However, Online learning must also be respected as a significant commitment that should be considered with all the diligence one might for a brick-and-mortar school. The authors contend that if the focus remains on readiness, families can expect a successful and effective educational experience for their gifted children via online learning.
Reducing Excellence Gaps: A Research-Based Model
Authors: Plucker Jonathan A. , Peters Scott J. , Schmalensee Stephanie
Published: September 2017

As the awareness of the existence and negative effects of excellence gaps has grown among educators and policy makers, so too has a desire for research-supported interventions to reduce these gaps. A recent review of research related to promoting equitable outcomes for all gifted students identified six specific strategies for reducing excellence gaps. This article describes those components, along with a strategy of frontloading that should serve as the foundation for any comprehensive intervention efforts.
Transverse vibration analysis of composite thin annular plate by wave approach
Authors: Liu Wei , Wang Donghua , Li Tongyang
Published: September 2017

In this paper, free vibration and transmission properties of single and composite thin annular plate (TAP) structures are presented by wave approach. The propagation matrix, continuity matrix and reflection matrix are introduced to carry out the analysis. Using the wave approach, natural frequencies of single and composite TAP are calculated theoretically. The results obtained by this method agree well with those calculated by the classical Bessel and Hankel methods. Additionally, transfer matrix is introduced and combined with the boundary conditions to obtain the transmission behaviors of composite multilayer TAP. To thoroughly understand the composite TAP, the influences of thickness, density ratio and radius ratio on natural frequencies are investigated. This study provides very useful information for transverse vibration suppression of TAP structure.
Remotely supported prehospital ultrasound: A feasibility study of real-time image transmission and expert guidance to aid diagnosis in remote and rural communities
Authors: Eadie Leila , Mulhern John , Regan Luke , Mort Alasdair , Shannon Helen , Macaden Ashish , Wilson Philip
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Our aim is to expedite prehospital assessment of remote and rural patients using remotely-supported ultrasound and satellite/cellular communications. In this paradigm, paramedics are remotely-supported ultrasound operators, guided by hospital-based specialists, to record images before receiving diagnostic advice. Technology can support users in areas with little access to medical imaging and suboptimal communications coverage by connecting to multiple cellular networks and/or satellites to stream live ultrasound and audio-video.

Methods

An ambulance-based demonstrator system captured standard trauma and novel transcranial ultrasound scans from 10 healthy volunteers at 16 locations across the Scottish Highlands. Volunteers underwent brief scanning training before receiving expert guidance via the communications link. Ultrasound images were streamed with an audio/video feed to reviewers for interpretation. Two sessions were transmitted via satellite and 21 used cellular networks. Reviewers rated image and communication quality, and their utility for diagnosis. Transmission latency and bandwidth were recorded, and effects of scanner and reviewer experience were assessed.

Results

Appropriate views were provided in 94% of the simulated trauma scans. The mean upload rate was 835/150 kbps and mean latency was 114/2072 ms for cellular and satellite networks, respectively. Scanning experience had a significant impact on time to achieve a diagnostic image, and review of offline scans required significantly less time than live-streamed scans.

Discussion

This prehospital ultrasound system could facilitate early diagnosis and streamlining of treatment pathways for remote emergency patients, being particularly applicable in rural areas worldwide with poor communications infrastructure and extensive transport times.
When private internal investigators turn against the whistleblower
Authors: Gottschalk Petter
Published: September 2017

The work of fraud examiners in private internal investigations is important to many auditing and law firms. They are hired by public and private organizations when there are suspicions of misconduct and financial crime. Such suspicions are sometimes disclosed by whistleblowers who attempt to disclose practices that they perceive as illegal, immoral or illegitimate. This article presents a case from the Norwegian police in which whistleblowers expressed concerns about overtime, use of private cars, and the procurement of equipment for personal use. The main whistleblower was also the ombudsman within the organization, where he repeated his accusations and allegations so frequently that he became the main subject of the private internal investigation. This study finds some support for the blame game hypothesis.
Effect of improved accelerating method on efficient chemistry calculations in diesel engine
Authors: Zhou Lei , Zhao Wanhui , Wei Haiqiao
Published: September 2017

With detailed chemical kinetics being employed in combustion simulations, its major computational challenge is the time-intensive nature of chemical kinetics integration due to the large number of chemical species and wide range of chemical timescales involved. In this work, an extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning method is carried out to simulate complex spray combustion for non-premixed combustion process. The thought of extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning is achieved by selecting the optimum acceleration method as well as its error tolerances at different combustion stages depending on combustion characteristics involving the low-temperature combustion. The present method is applied to realistically complex combustion systems involving spray flame of n-heptane fuel and non-premixed combustion engine. Computation efficiency of the proposed method is compared with the results using different accelerating methods, including dynamical adaptive chemistry, in situ adaptive tabulation, and coupled method of tabulated dynamical adaptive chemistry. The results show that transient computational cost will decrease for low-temperature combustion by reducing ambient oxygen concentration clearly in spray flame. Meanwhile, very low computational efficiency is presented once the autoignition occurs, especially at the initial oxygen concentration of 21%. Based on the feature, extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning with different dynamic adaptive chemistry error tolerances is proposed to improve computational efficiency. Extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning with larger error tolerance [Formula: see text] improves around two times for decreased amplitude of transient computational cost at high-temperature combustion stage, and at the same time, the computational accuracy is also improved by comparing the important intermediate species obtained by direct integration. For applications in diesel engine, the results show that extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning can accurately capture the first-stage ignition feature that determines the high-temperature combustion stage. In addition, extended tabulated dynamic chemistry approach with dynamic pruning with the smaller in situ adaptive tabulation error tolerance of 0.001 only used at the high-temperature combustion stage significantly improves the performance on diesel engine simulation with a larger chemistry mechanism. The present method further significantly improves computational efficiency with an overall speedup factor of 10 with high-accuracy compared with result using direct integration.
Using data collection apps and single-case designs to research transformative learning in adults
Authors: Roessger Kevin M , Greenleaf Arie , Hoggan Chad
Published: September 2017

To overcome situational hurdles when researching transformative learning in adults, we outline a research approach using single-case research designs and smartphone data collection apps. This approach allows researchers to better understand learners’ current lived experiences and determine the effects of transformative learning interventions on demonstrable outcomes. We first discuss data collection apps and their features. We then describe how they can be integrated into single-case research designs to make causal inferences about a learning intervention’s effects when limited by researcher access and learner retrospective reporting. Design controls for internal validity threats and visual and statistical data analysis are then discussed. Throughout, we highlight applications to transformative learning and conclude by discussing the approach’s potential limitations.
The canonical way to make a heart: β-catenin and plakoglobin in heart development and remodeling
Authors: Piven Oksana O , Winata Cecilia L
Published: September 2017

The main mediator of the canonical Wnt pathway, β-catenin, is a major effector of embryonic development, postnatal tissue homeostasis, and adult tissue regeneration. The requirement for β-catenin in cardiogenesis and embryogenesis has been well established. However, many questions regarding the molecular mechanisms by which β-catenin and canonical Wnt signaling regulate these developmental processes remain unanswered. An interesting question that emerged from our studies concerns how β-catenin signaling is modulated through interaction with other factors. Recent experimental data implicate new players in canonical Wnt signaling, particularly those which modulate β-catenin function in many its biological processes, including cardiogenesis. One of the interesting candidates is plakoglobin, a little-studied member of the catenin family which shares several mechanistic and functional features with its close relative, β-catenin. Here we have focused on the function of β-catenin in cardiogenesis. We also summarize findings on plakoglobin signaling function and discuss possible interplays between β-catenin and plakoglobin in the regulation of embryonic heart development.

Impact statement

Heart development, function, and remodeling are complex processes orchestrated by multiple signaling networks. This review examines our current knowledge of the role of canonical Wnt signaling in cardiogenesis and heart remodeling, focusing primarily on the mechanistic action of its effector β-catenin. We summarize the generally accepted understanding of the field based on experimental in vitro and in vivo data, and address unresolved questions in the field, specifically relating to the role of canonical Wnt signaling in heart maturation and regeneration. What are the modulators of canonical Wnt, and particularly what are the potential roles of plakoglobin, a close relative of β-catenin, in regulating Wnt signaling?Answers to these questions will enhance our understanding of the mechanism by which the canonical Wnt signaling regulates development of the heart and its regeneration after damage.
Clinical correlation of the area of inferior vena cava, iliac and femoral veins for stent use
Authors: Aurshina Afsha , Ganelin Arkady , Hingorani Anil , Blumberg Sheila , Ostrozhynskyy Yuriy , Kheyson Borislav , Ascher Enrico
Published: September 2017

Objective

The purpose of the study is to evaluate normal anatomical areas of infrarenal inferior vena cava, common iliac, external iliac and common femoral veins by intravascular ultrasound with the goal of assisting the development of venous-specific stents in the treatment of iliac vein stenosis.

Method

From February 2012 to December 2013, 656 office-based venograms were performed in our facility. Among them, 576 were stented and 80 were not. The measurements of veins were done intraoperatively using an intravascular ultrasound catheter to record areas of the inferior vena cava, proximal, middle and distal segments of common iliac vein, external iliac vein and common femoral vein. The data were compared between non-diseased segments of patients who were stented and those not stented. The stented diseased segments were excluded.

Results

The mean patient age was 67.33 years (range 22–96, SD ±13.99). Our data included 218 males, 438 females and 324 right lower extremities and 332 left lower extremities. The presenting symptoms of these patients based on CEAP were C1(0), C2 (185), C3(233), C4(107), C5(89) and C6(42). No correlation was found between area of veins and age, gender, laterality and CEAP score (P > .13). Comparison of the areas of non-diseased iliac vein segments between patients not stented and patients who underwent stenting showed a significant difference, with larger areas in non-stented patients in the distal common iliac vein (P = .039) and inferior vena cava (P = .012). Younger age (P = .03) and male gender (P < .0001) were associated with increased area of iliac vein segments.

Conclusion

Utilizing the intravascular ultrasound-guided technique, we were able to define normal anatomical areas of non-diseased inferior vena cava, iliac and femoral veins, which could be employed to guide the development of appropriate-sized stents and other tools needed for the treatment of venous insufficiency. There is specific variability in areas of normal vein segments with age and gender with/without stents.
Human-tracking system using quadrotors and multiple environmental cameras for face-tracking application
Authors: Srisamosorn Veerachart , Kuwahara Noriaki , Yamashita Atsushi , Ogata Taiki , Ota Jun
Published: September 2017

In this article, a system for tracking human’s position and orientation in indoor environment was developed utilizing environmental cameras. The system consists of cameras installed in the environment at fixed locations and orientations, called environmental cameras, and a moving robot which mounts a camera, called moving camera. The environmental cameras detect the location and direction of each person in the space, as well as the position of the moving robot. The robot is then controlled to move and follow the person’s movement based on the person’s location and orientation, mimicking the act of moving camera tracking his/her face. The number of cameras needed to cover the area of the experiment, as well as each camera’s position and orientation, was obtained by using particle swarm optimization algorithm. Sensor fusion among multiple cameras is done by simple weighted averaging based on distance and knowledge of the number of robots being used. Xbox Kinect sensors and a miniature quadrotor were used to implement the system. The tracking experiment was done with one person walking and rotating in the area. The result shows that the proposed system can track the person and quadrotor within the degree of 10 cm , and the quadrotor can follow the person’s movement as desired. At least one camera was guaranteed to be tracking the person and the quadrotor at any time, with the minimum number of two for tracking the person and only a few moments that only one camera was tracking the quadrotor.
An ineffective preparation? The scarce effect in primary school principals’ practices of school leadership preparation and training in seven countries in Latin America
Authors: Weinstein José , Azar Ariel , Flessa Joseph
Published: September 2017

Latin American educational policy has relied on the assumption that better preparation can help school leaders improve their professional performance, thus improving quality of schools. Training programs for present or future school leaders have proliferated in the region, often publicly financed, but without enough evidence of their impact. Using data for seven Latin American countries from the Third Regional Comparative and Explanatory Study (TERCE), we seek to determine the association between school leaders’ formal education and training received, with well recognized dimensions of school leadership practices reported by their teachers. We estimated linear regression models for each country in Latin America to determine the relationship between principals’ preparation with indicators of educational leadership practices. Our results show that in most observed indicators of leadership practices the effect of education or training is marginal. We provide possible explanations for this finding, emphasizing the weaknesses in principals’ initial selection processes and their deficiencies. We also consider schools’ precarious conditions to support principals in order to put the knowledge they learned in training activities into practice. We point out the need to continue conducting specific studies on the effects of training on educational leadership among school leaders in the region, overcoming TERCE information restrictions.
Excavating ghosts: Urban exploration as graffiti archaeology
Authors: Kindynis Theo
Published: September 2017

Based on several years of near-nightly excursions into London’s disused, non-public, forgotten, subterranean and infrastructural spaces, this article considers the significance of discovering years - or even decades - old surviving traces of graffiti (‘ghosts’, in graffiti parlance) in situ. The article also draws on extensive ethnographic research into London’s graffiti subculture, as well as in-depth semi-structured interviews with several generations of graffiti writers. The article proceeds in four parts. The first part reflects on three sources of methodological inspiration: unauthorised urban exploration and documentation; more-or-less formal archaeological studies of graffiti; and ‘ghost ethnography’, an emergent methodological orientation which places an emphasis on absence and the interpretation of material and atmospheric traces. The second part of the article considers recent theoretical work associated with the ‘spectral turn’. Here, ghosts and haunting provide useful conceptual metaphors for thinking about lingering material and atmospheric traces of the past. The third part of the article offers some methodological caveats and reflections. The fourth and final part of the article seeks to connect theory and method, and asks what significance can be drawn from unauthorised encounters with graffiti ‘ghosts’.
Nurses' perceived stress and compassion following a mindfulness meditation and self compassion training
Authors: Mahon Marie Ann , Mee Lorraine , Brett Denise , Dowling Maura
Published: September 2017

This pilot study explored the effects of a mindfulness meditation intervention on nurses’ perceived stress and compassion. A quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was used. Nurses ( n = 90) working at three university teaching hospitals completed the Perceived Stress Scale and Compassion Scale at the beginning of the training and 64 completed the scales at the end of the training. The 64 matched data sets were analysed using the t -test, chi-square test and analysis of variance. The findings indicated that the nurses’ perceived stress was significantly reduced after the intervention. Notably, compassion scores were increased after the intervention, and this finding was significant for nurses working at one of the hospitals. There were no significant differences between results from a 6-week and an 8-week mindfulness intervention. The results suggest that mindfulness meditation training can impact positively on nurses’ perceived stress and also enhance nurses’ compassion. Mindfulness may well be a suitable self-care, stress-management intervention that can effectively teach nurses coping skills to assist them in managing the daily stressors inherent in their home and work life.
Magnetic resonance imaging and brain injury in the chronic phase after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: A systematic review
Authors: Stehouwer Bertine L , van der Kleij Lisa A , Hendrikse Jeroen , Rinkel Gabriel JE , De Vis Jill B
Published: September 2017

Background

Case-fatality rates after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage have decreased over the past decades. However, many patients who survive an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage have long-term functional and cognitive impairments.

Aims

We sought to review all data on conventional brain MRI obtained in the chronic phase after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage to (1) analyze the proportion of patients with cerebral infarction or brain volume changes; (2) investigate baseline determinants predictive of MRI-detected damage; and (3) assess if brain damage is predictive of patient outcome.

Summary of review

All original data published between 1 January 2000 and 4 October 2017 was searched using the PUBMED, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. Based on preset inclusion criteria, 15 from 5200 articles were included with a total of 996 aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients. Quality assessment, risk of bias assessment, and level of evidence assessment were performed. The results according to aim, with levels of evidence, were: (1) 25 to 81% of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients show infarcts (strong); there is a higher ratio of cerebrospinal fluid-to-intracranial volume in patients compared to controls (strong); (2) there is a negative relation between age (moderate), DCI (low) and brain volume measurement outcomes; (3) lower brain parenchymal volume (strong) and the presence of infarcts or infarct volumes (moderate) are associated with a worse outcome.

Conclusion

Patients after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage may demonstrate brain infarcts and decreased brain parenchyma, which is related to worse outcome. Thereby, both brain infarcts and brain volume measurements could be used as outcome markers in pharmaceutical trials.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO CRD42016040095
Submuscular transposition with musculofascial lengthening for persistent or recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome in 34 patients
Authors: Wever Nick , de Ruiter Godard C. W. , Coert J Henk
Published: September 2017

The two main surgical options for patients with persistent or recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome are subcutaneous and submuscular transposition. We retrospectively analysed the results of 34 patients with recalcitrant cubital tunnel syndrome who underwent submuscular transposition with musculofascial lengthening at our institutions. Of the 34 patients, 21 improved clinically after submuscular transposition with musculofascial lengthening, of which 16 were still satisfied at a mean follow-up of four years. In addition, all articles published between 1974 and January 2015 on subcutaneous and/or submuscular transposition of the ulnar nerve for recalcitrant cubital tunnel syndrome were reviewed. We found that previously published studies on this subject are too heterogeneous to compare. No recommendation can thus be made regarding the surgical technique for persistent or recurrent cubital tunnel syndrome. Our series shows that the musculofascial lengthening technique for submuscular transposition is a good option. More research is needed to compare the different surgical treatments.

Level of evidence: IV
Investigation of Pump Compatibility of Fast-Acting Insulin Aspart in Subjects With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Zijlstra Eric , Demissie Marek , Graungaard Tina , Heise Tim , Nosek Leszek , Bode Bruce
Published: September 2017

Background:

Ultra-fast-acting insulins, such as fast-acting insulin aspart (faster aspart), have pharmacokinetic properties that may be advantageous for patients using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), provided that they are compatible with and safe to use in CSII.

Methods:

Randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, actively controlled trial evaluating compatibility, efficacy, and safety of faster aspart in adults with type 1 diabetes using their own MiniMed Paradigm pump with Quick-Set or Silhouette infusion sets. Following run-in, subjects were randomized (2:1) to faster aspart (n = 25) or insulin aspart (n = 12) for 6 weeks. Primary endpoint was the number of microscopically confirmed episodes of infusion-set occlusions.

Results:

No microscopically confirmed episodes of infusion-set occlusions were observed in either arm. Seven possible infusion-set occlusions were reported by five subjects (all faster aspart); none were prompted by a plug observed by the subject (prompted by unexplained hyperglycemia [n = 6] or leakage [n = 1]) and none were confirmed. Macroscopic and microscopic evaluation showed no color change or particle/crystal formation in the infusion sets. Premature infusion-set changes were reported in 44% and 16.7% of subjects in the faster aspart and insulin aspart groups, respectively. A nonsignificant trend toward better efficacy was observed with faster aspart (estimated treatment difference [ETD] [95% CI] in HbA1c change: –0.14% [–0.40, 0.11]). No new safety issues were found in either treatment group.

Conclusions:

Over 6 weeks of treatment, no microscopically confirmed infusion-set occlusions were observed for faster aspart or insulin aspart, indicating similar compatibility with CSII use.
Blood supply and vascularity of the glenoid labrum: Its clinical implications
Authors: Alashkham Abduelmenem , Alraddadi Abdulrahman , Felts Paul , Soames Roger
Published: September 2017

Background:

Tears of the glenoid labrum are common after dislocation of the glenohumeral joint. The outcome for healing or surgical reconstruction of the glenoid labrum relies on the extent of its vascularization. This study aims to evaluate the glenoid labrum blood supply and to determine its regional vascularity.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 140 shoulders (30 male and 40 female cadavers) were examined: mean age 81.5 years, range 53–101 years. All blood vessels around the glenohumeral joint were dissected and recorded. Ten specimens with the glenoid labrum and fibrous capsule attached were randomly selected and detached at the glenoid neck and subjected to decalcification. Sections (10–20 μm) were cut through the whole thickness of each specimen from the centre of the glenoid fossa perpendicular to the glenoid labrum at 12 radii corresponding to a clock face superimposed on the glenoid. Sections were stained using haematoxylin and eosin and then examined.

Results:

The blood supply to the glenoid labrum is by direct branches from the second part of the axillary artery, subscapular, circumflex scapular and anterior circumflex humeral and posterior circumflex humeral arteries, as well as branches of muscular arteries supplying the surrounding muscles.

Conclusion:

This study shows that the glenoid labrum has a rich blood supply suggesting that, regardless of the types of the glenoid labrum lesions or their management, an excellent outcome for glenoid labrum healing and joint stability is possible. The observations also suggest that the blood supply to the glenoid labrum is sufficient, enabling its reattachment.
The Impact of Corporate Governance Mechanisms on Earnings Management: A Case of Indian Stock Exchange Listed Companies
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Aggarwal Annu , Anand Ashween Kaur
Published: September 2017

The present study contributes to literature by investigating the impact of corporate governance practices on earnings management. To achieve the objectives of this study, we analysed a sample of 50 large capitalization companies from 10 different sectors viz. automotive, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, cement/construction, chemical, real estate/ retail, food and beverage, technology, engineering and metals and mining listed on BSE for the period 2005–06 to 2015–16. Corporate governance has been quantified through its different attributes, i.e., board size, board committee meeting frequency, board independence, role duality (CEO/chairman), audit committee meeting frequency and audit committee independence. Earnings management is measured by discretionary accruals calculated using modified Jones model developed by Dechow, Sloan and Sweeney (1995). Empirical findings of overall analysis reveal that board size and earnings management are negatively associated whereas board meeting frequency is positively associated with earnings management. In the sector-wise analysis, impact of corporate governance in constraining earnings management was found to be relatively higher and consistent in Oil and Gas sector and Technology sector as compared to other sectors. The findings of the study have important policy implications as they encourage adopting corporate governance practices in firms in order to mitigate earnings management.
Natural Progression of Radiographic Indices in Juvenile Hallux Valgus Deformity
Authors: Chun Sangho , Kwon Soon-Sun , Lee Kyoung min , Park Moon Seok , Sung Ki Hyuk , Koo Seungbum , Kim Sung Jin , Sangyeop Shin , Choi Hyun , Lee Seung Yeol
Published: September 2017

Category:

Bunion, Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

There is a lack of quantitative studies on the progression of juvenile hallux valgus deformity. Therefore, we performed this study to estimate an annual change of radiographic indices for juvenile hallux valgus.

Methods:

We reviewed medical records of consecutive patients under the age of 15 with juvenile hallux valgus who underwent weight-bearing foot radiographs more than twice, and were followed over a period of one year or more. A total of 133 feet from 69 patients were included. Hallux valgus angle, hallux interphalangeal angle, intermetatarsal angle, metatarsus adductus angle, distal metatarsal articular angle, anteroposterior talo-1st metatarsal angle, anteroposterior talo-2nd metatarsal angle, and lateral talo-1st metatarsal angle were measured and were used as a study criteria. The progression rate of hallux valgus angle was adjusted by multiple factors including the use of a linear mixed model with gender and radiographic measurements as the fixed effects and laterality and each subject as the random effect.

Results:

Our results demonstrate that the value of hallux valgus angle on the radiographs progressed as the patients grew older. The hallux valgus angle increased by 0.8° per year (p<0.001)(Figure). The distal metatarsal articular angle also increased by 0.8 per year (p=0.003). Conversely, hallux interphalangeal angle decreased by 0.2° per year (p=0.019). Progression of the intermetatarsal angle and metatarsus adductus angle with aging were not statistically significant. There was a difference in progression of radiographic indices between older patients (=10 years) and younger patients (<10 years). The hallux valgus angle increased by 1.5° per year (p<0.001) in younger patients, progression of the hallux valgus angle in older patients was not statistically significant (p=0.869) as children grew up.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that the hallux valgus angle increased in patients with juvenile hallux valgus under 10 years old, unlike the patients aged 10 or older. We believed that our results can help surgeons to determine a treatment strategy that uses the growth potential to achieve correction of deformity such as lateral hemiepiphyseodesis of the 1st metatarsal to patients with juvenile hallux valgus.
MR Imaging of Ankle Arthroplasty Implants
Authors: de Cesar Netto Cesar , Schon Lew , Da Fonseca Lucas Furtado , Maccario Camilla , Chinanuvathana Apisan , Fritz Jan
Published: September 2017

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Metal artifact reduction magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ankle allows for comprehensive imaging evaluation of pain and dysfunction after arthroplasty including periprosthetic bone resorption and osteolysis, synovitis, infection, periprosthetic fractures, arthrofibrosis and component malalignment. The aim of this study was to show the appearance of normal ankle arthroplasties and common pathologies using optimal imaging parameters including newer multispectral MR techniques such as MAVRIC and SEMAC.

Methods:

We included adult 20 asymptomatic volunteers (12 men and 20 women, mean age of 62.41 years (range, 42-74 years), mean body mass index (BMI) of 29.02 kg/m2 (range, 20.30-41.15 kg/m2), average postoperative time of 13.84 months (range, 3-29 months)) and 12 symptomatic patients (12 men and 20 women, mean age of 62.41 years (range, 42-74 years), BMI of 29.02 kg/m2 (range, 20.30-41.15 kg/m2) and an average postoperative time of 13.84 months (range, 3-29 months)) with total ankle replacement that agreed to cooperate and signed a written informed consent. The MRI exams of asymptomatic volunteers were obtained for research purposes only, whereas the clinical and MRI exams of asymptomatic volunteers were obtained for research and clinical purposes. Images were assessed by two different readers.

Results:

The following key pathophysiologic issues were assessed regarding imaging findings: Normal MRI appearances and MRI diagnosis of complications: Implant integration: Biological and cement fixation, fibrous membrane formation, bone resorption and osteolysis Bone: progressive osteoporosis, implant subsidence, osseous stress reaction and focal overload, fracture, osteonecrosis Synovium: non-specific synovitis, wear-induced synovitis, infection, arthrofibrosis Impingement syndromes Sagittal implant alignment Musculotendinous abnormalities Neurovascular compromise Types and frequency of modes of failure of ankle arthroplasty.

Conclusion:

Ankle arthroplasties can be evaluated using metal artifact reduction MRI by optimizing the imaging protocol. Newer imaging sequences can provide optimal diagnostic value with shorter acquisition time and better metal artifact reduction using commercially available MR scanners. These imaging characteristics and scan techniques can provide optimal diagnostic value for patients with ankle arthroplasties, improving patient care.