bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biodeteriogenic and toxigenic agents on 17th century mural paintings and façade of the old church of the Holy Ascension (Veliki Krčimir, Serbia)
Authors: Unković Nikola , Ljaljević Grbić Milica , Subakov-Simić Gordana , Stupar Miloš , Vukojević Jelena , Jelikić Aleksa , Stanojević Dragan
Published: May 2015

Biofilm forming microbial community dwelling on the surface of façade and biodeteriorated 17th century wall paintings of the old Church of the Holy Ascension (Veliki Krčimir, Serbia) was evaluated through microscopic analyses, in order to detect toxigenic agents and assess potential damage caused by biodeteriogens. Initial optical examination of adhesive tape samples revealed complex microbial community flourishing on deteriorated mural surfaces highly enriched with inorganic impurities and organic contaminants of plant and animal origin. A variety of fungal structures, such as melanized hyphae, chlamydospores, fruiting bodies, as well as spores for sexual and asexual reproduction, were predominant in all samples analysed. In addition, among actively growing micromycetes, dematiaceous microcolonial fungi and toxigenic Chaetomium and Cladosporium species were most frequent. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the presence of actinomycetes and highly developed mycelium network within the plaster and paint layers, as well as numerous Cladosporium-like conidial chains and Chaetomium lemon shaped ascospores. Such findings confirm our hypothesis that pulverization of painted layers was most likely due to hyphal penetration and formation of fruiting bodies and other fungal structures. Interestingly, although several green algae were documented on the surface of wall paintings and façade, no cyanobacteria were observed in any of the analysed samples.
The special case of Switzerland: Swiss politicians on Twitter
Authors: Rauchfleisch Adrian , Metag Julia
Published: May 2015

We analyse the use of Twitter in political communication in Switzerland because, in comparison with other democracies, Switzerland with its strong federalism, fragmented party system, small country size and semi-professional politicians can be seen as the least-likely critical case, thus creating unique conditions for the use of social media. The study investigates the individual characteristics of Swiss Members of Parliament that could influence social media usage. Thus, the study contributes to the debate about equalization and normalization with respect to Twitter as a relevant microblogging channel for political communication and to the significance of country-specific conditions for the adoption of innovations in political online communication. The study explains the shift from equalization towards normalization with the diffusion of innovations theory.
Between reality and imagination, between you and me: Emotions and daydreaming in times of electronic communication
Authors: Cantó-Milà Natàlia , Núñez-Mosteo Francesc , Seebach Swen
Published: May 2015

This article focuses on the analysis of daydreams and fantasies people have regarding their partnerships in ‘non-moments’, moments in which we have time to take a break or to daydream. This article makes a strong case for the relevance of the shift from the isolation experienced within these ‘non-moments’ towards an altered experience of this isolation, which has been moulded and partially broken by the possibility to share our dreams in real time, and communicate with our significant others (here, partners), while tearing us further apart from those who share with us these moments in the same place. The analysis of such non-moments will help us to shed light on how our intimate relationships are woven on a daily basis, and how electronic communication is part of a differentiation process in which we can share our imaginaries just as we produce them.
Fluid handling and fabric handle profiles of hydroentangled greige cotton and spunbond polypropylene nonwoven topsheets
Authors: Vincent Edwards J , Mao Ningtao , Russell Stephen , Carus Edmund , Condon Brian , Hinchliffe Doug , Gary Lawson , Graves Elena , Bopp Alvin , Wang Yiyi
Published: May 2015

Wettable nonwoven topsheets are traditionally spunbond polypropylene nonwoven fabrics. The fluid handling performance of hydroentangled greige cotton nonwovens was studied to determine their suitability for topsheet applications based upon analysis of fluid rewet, strikethrough, and acquisition properties; and the relative contributions of nonwoven cotton’s cellulosic and wax components to hydrophobic and hydrophilic fluid transport properties are addressed. It was observed that mechanically cleaned greige cotton nonwovens exhibit certain fluid handling properties that are similar to polypropylene spunbond-meltblown topsheets, partly as a result of the residual wax content. Subsequently, the surface polarity, swelling, and moisture uptake of 100% greige cotton and 50:50 blends of greige cotton and polypropylene hydroentangled nonwovens were studied in comparison with the performance of a commercially available 100% polypropylene spunbond-meltblown topsheets. The surface polarity, swelling, and wettability values obtained from electrokinetic and water contact angle analysis were found to be in agreement with the hydrophobic polypropylene topsheets. Additionally, comfort assessment was undertaken based upon fabric handle profiles using the Leeds University Fabric Handle Evaluation System, which is an objective evaluation based on the quantification of fabric buckling deformations. Of the fabrics studied in this work, 50:50 greige cotton/polypropylene hydroentangled fabrics were the softest as determined by the Leeds University Fabric Handle Evaluation System and exhibited fluid handling properties consistent with the requirements of commercial topsheets.
Porous Ti6Al4V scaffolds for dental implants: Microstructure, mechanical, and corrosion behavior
Authors: Hosseini Shabnam , Mirdamadi Shamsoddin , Nemati Ali
Published: May 2015

Titanium and its alloys are known as one of the most significant metallic materials used in the orthopedic and dental implants due to their excellent mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. One of the main issues in dental implant is the fabrication of the biomaterials that have early and sufficiently strong bonding with the surrounding bone. In the present study, porous Ti6Al4V scaffolds were synthesized using the powder metallurgy with various amounts of magnesium. The specimens were sintered at 950 ℃, close to magnesium vaporization point, because of the remaining magnesium in the scaffolds. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the specimens were investigated. Electrochemical characterization was carried out to indicate the effect of porosity on corrosion resistance. This investigation showed that the porous Ti6Al4V scaffolds containing 5–10 volume percent of magnesium with 28–31% porosity as a semi-degradable implant could be an advanced alternative for clinical application under load-bearing conditions such as dental implants which require two factors of strength and osteointegration.
The use of electromechanical impedance conductance signatures for detection of weak adhesive bonds of carbon fibre–reinforced polymer
Authors: Malinowski Pawel , Wandowski Tomasz , Ostachowicz Wieslaw
Published: May 2015

The joints between structural elements should ensure safe usage of the structure. One of the joining method is based on adhesive bonding. However, adhesive bonding has not replaced riveting yet. Rivets are still present even in newest composite aircraft AIRBUS 350. The reliability of the adhesive bonding limits the use of adhesive bonding for primary aircraft structures and there is a search for new non-destructive testing tools allowing to (1) assessment of the surfaces before bonding and (2) assessment of the adhesive bond. The performance of adhesive bonds depends on the physico-chemical properties of the bonded surfaces. The contamination leading to weak bonds may have various origin and be caused by contamination (moisture, release agent, hydraulic fluid and fuel) or poor curing of adhesive. In this work, the research is focused on the development of the method for assessment of the adhesive bonds. Bonded carbon fibre–reinforced polymer samples were considered. Electromechanical impedance technique was proposed. The technique is based on electrical impedance measurements of a piezoelectric transducer attached to the investigated structure. The piezoelectric effect causes the electrical response of a piezoelectric transducer to be related to mechanical response of the structure. The indexes for comparison of the conductance spectra were proposed. Three different cases of possible weak bonds were selected for the investigation. The same cases were investigated by destructive methods by other authors. Such approach allows for direct comparison of the obtained results. It was shown that the proposed method allows for clear separation of weak bond cases from the cases for other samples and free sensors. In terms of weak bond assessment, the frequency change with weak bond level (contamination and level of poor curing) was observed. The obtained results are promising and encourage to future research.
‘… For the love of children and the joy of childhood’: The reported values, beliefs and practices of male practitioners in England
Authors: Jones Charlotte Estella
Published: May 2015

Increased attention has been paid to qualifications and training of early childhood education and care staff in order to improve the quality of the service they provide. However, less attention has been paid to the demographics of the workforce itself. Men have consistently made up 2 per cent of the early childhood education and care workforce. Research on their experiences within the workforce is lacking and therefore their work with young children largely unreported. Drawing on data collected from an online questionnaire, this article will explore the reported values, beliefs and experiences of male practitioners working with children aged 0–5 years. Bourdieu’s theories on habitus, capital and field were utilised as a means of interrogating data gathered to consider influences shaping life chances and practices of men working with young children. Participants shared extremely positive experiences of their current work; however, the findings reflected the need to reconsider the extent to which our cultural conceptions of gender roles and identities have changed in the sphere of early childhood education and care in the 21st century.
Children’s mathematical and verbal competence in different early education and care programmes in Australia
Authors: Hildenbrand Claudia , Niklas Frank , Cohrssen Caroline , Tayler Collette
Published: May 2015

This study investigated the relationship between children’s attendance at different types of early childhood education and care programmes and their mathematical and verbal skills. Analyses of data from 1314 children participating in an Australian longitudinal study, the E4Kids project, revealed no relationship between children’s verbal ability and the early childhood education and care programme attended, but mathematics results tell a different story. At the first measurement, children who consistently attended only informal care outperformed children who either consistently attended a formal early childhood education and care service type or attended a mix of formal and informal care. The development of mathematical and verbal competencies between first and second measurements, 1 year later, did not differ between children who attended different types of early childhood education and care. Early childhood educators in Australia are required to provide programmes that incorporate both mathematical concepts and language development. However, many early childhood educators describe uncertainty about how to support children’s mathematical learning. Further professional development and support in this area is necessary.
Daylight and occupancy adaptive lighting control system: An iterative optimization approach
Authors: Caicedo D , Pandharipande A
Published: May 2015

We consider a smart lighting control system for daylight and occupancy adaptation with illumination and dimming constraints. The lighting system has multiple luminaires, with co-located light and occupancy sensors, and a central controller. The sensors communicate local occupancy state and illuminance measurements to the central controller where dimming levels for the luminaires are optimized. We consider an optimization framework wherein the objective is to minimize the power consumption subject to illumination and dimming constraints. The illumination constraint is to achieve an illumination value at the light sensor that is above a specified set-point, depending on the occupancy state. The dimming constraints are to achieve a level of spatial uniformity in dimming levels of the luminaires within a neighbourhood, with the dimming levels being within physical limits. We propose an iterative method for optimization to determine the dimming levels that (i) does not require explicit daylight knowledge for every iteration, and (ii) induces smoother dimming level changes in luminaires. The proposed method and optimization framework is compared with existing approaches, in terms of achieved illumination and dimming values, in an open-plan office lighting model.
Dapagliflozin lowers blood pressure in hypertensive and non-hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sjöström C David , Johansson Peter , Ptaszynska Agata , List James , Johnsson Eva
Published: May 2015

The effect of dapagliflozin on blood pressure was evaluated in non-hypertensive (<140 mm Hg) and hypertensive (⩾140 mm Hg) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data were pooled from 13 placebo-controlled studies. Patients received dapagliflozin 10 mg/day ( n = 2360) or placebo ( n = 2295) for up to 24 weeks. Dapagliflozin was associated with placebo-subtracted changes from baseline in systolic and diastolic blood pressures of −3.6 and −1.2 mm Hg, respectively, in hypertensive patients and −2.6 and −1.2 mm Hg, respectively, in non-hypertensive patients. At 24 weeks, a similar proportion of patients experienced measured orthostatic reactions with dapagliflozin versus placebo in hypertensive (6.1% and 6.6%, respectively) and non-hypertensive (4.0% and 4.2%) patients. No clinically relevant difference was observed between dapagliflozin and placebo in heart rate. In conclusion, dapagliflozin 10 mg induces a modest reduction in blood pressure compared with placebo in patients with diabetes with a low risk of orthostatic reactions, regardless of baseline blood pressure.
Scatter Reduction and Correction for Dual-Source Cone-Beam CT Using Prepatient Grids
Authors: Ren Lei , Chen Yingxuan , Zhang You , Giles William , Jin Jianyue , Yin Fang-Fang
Published: May 2015

Purpose:

Scatter significantly limits the application of the dual-source cone-beam computed tomography by inducing scatter artifacts and degrading contrast-to-noise ratio, Hounsfield-unit accuracy, and image uniformity. Although our previously developed interleaved acquisition mode addressed the cross scatter between the 2 X-ray sources, it doubles the scanning time and doesn’t address the forward scatter issue. This study aims to develop a prepatient grid system to address both forward scatter and cross scatter in the dual-source cone-beam computed tomography.

Methods:

Grids attached to both X-ray sources provide physical scatter reduction during the image acquisition. Image data were measured in the unblocked region, while both forward scatter and cross scatter were measured in the blocked region of the projection for postscan scatter correction. Complementary projections were acquired with grids at complementary locations and were merged to form complete projections for reconstruction. Experiments were conducted with different phantom sizes, grid blocking ratios, image acquisition modes, and reconstruction algorithms to investigate their effects on the scatter reduction and correction. The image quality improvement by the prepatient grids was evaluated both qualitatively through the artifact reduction and quantitatively through contrast-to-noise ratio, Hounsfield-unit accuracy, and uniformity using a CATphan 504 phantom.

Results:

Scatter artifacts were reduced by scatter reduction and were removed by scatter correction method. Contrast-to-noise ratio, Hounsfield-unit accuracy, and image uniformity were improved substantially. The simultaneous acquisition mode achieved comparable contrast-to-noise ratio as the interleaved and sequential modes after scatter reduction and correction. Higher grid blocking ratio and smaller phantom size led to higher contrast-to-noise ratio for the simultaneous mode. The iterative reconstruction with total variation regularization was more effective than the Feldkamp, Davis, and Kress method in reducing noise caused by the scatter correction to enhance contrast-to-noise ratio.

Conclusion:

The prepatient grid system is effective in removing the scatter effects in the simultaneous acquisition mode of the dual-source cone-beam computed tomography, which is useful for scanning time reduction or dual energy imaging.
Measuring Middle School Students’ Algebra Readiness
Authors: Ketterlin-Geller Leanne R. , Gifford Diane B. , Perry Lindsey
Published: May 2015

Students’ understanding and proficiency with rational number concepts and operations is considered a key foundational skill for future success in algebra. As middle school students work with these concepts, teachers need timely data to determine whether students are making adequate progress. The purpose of this article is to document the content specifications and technical adequacy data of three experimental measures for Grades 6 to 8 that are intended to provide teachers with ongoing information about students’ development of algebra-readiness concepts and skills. Three experimental measures were administered to a total of 575 students in Grades 6 to 8 in two states. Results from a systematic content review indicate that the content assesses key algebra-readiness concepts and skills. Pilot study results suggest that the measures may provide teachers with technically adequate data.
Quantitative EEG and Low-Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography (LORETA) Imaging of Patients Undergoing Methadone Treatment for Opiate Addiction
Authors: Wang Grace Y. , Kydd Robert R. , Russell Bruce R.
Published: May 2015

Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been used as a treatment for opiate dependence since the mid-1960s. Evidence suggests that methadone binds to mu opiate receptors as do other opiates and induces changes in neurophysiological function. However, little is known, about how neural activity within the higher frequency gamma band (>30 Hz) while at rest changes in those stabilized on MMT despite its association with the excitation-inhibition balance within pyramidal-interneuron networks. Our study investigated differences in resting gamma power (37-41 Hz) between patients undergoing MMT for opiate dependence, illicit opiate users, and healthy controls subjects. Electroencephalographic data were recorded from 26 sites according to the international 10-20 system. Compared with the healthy controls subjects, people either undergoing MMT (mean difference [MD] = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.09-0.55, P < .01) or currently using illicit opiates (MD = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.06-0.56, P = .01) exhibited significant increased gamma power. The sLORETA (standardized low-resolution electromagnetic tomography) between-group comparison revealed dysfunctional neuronal activity in the occipital, parietal, and frontal lobes in the patients undergoing MMT. A more severe profile of dysfunction was observed in those using illicit opiates. Our findings suggest that long-term exposure to opioids is associated with disrupted resting state network, which may be reduced after MMT.
Reducing Accidental Dislodgement of the Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy
Authors: Rosenberger Laura H. , Guidry Christopher A. , Davis John P. , Hranjec Tjasa , Johnston Vonda K. , Wages Nolan A. , Watson Christopher M. , Sawyer Robert G.
Published: May 2015

Background. The percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is a ubiquitous feeding tube with high rates of accidental dislodgement, with significant morbidity and health care costs. We hypothesized use of a decoupling device is a safe and effective mechanism to reduce dislodgements. Study Design. We studied a prospective cohort of 100 patients from an academic center. Enrollment included patients requiring PEG tube placement with follow up extending through an individual’s lifetime use of their PEG tube. The primary endpoint was accidental dislodgement of the principally placed PEG tube. The secondary endpoint was time to accidental dislodgement of the PEG tube. Results. All 100 patients received the SafetyBreak device and had complete follow-up. Half of the patients had at least a single episode of device decoupling, indicating prevention of dislodgement of the PEG. Eight patients ultimately had dislodgement, resulting in a significantly lower dislodgement rate when compared with a historical cohort ( P = .036) and significantly longer survival of the PEG (log rank = 0.005). When compared with a concurrent cohort (without the device) there was also significantly lower dislodgement rate ( P = .03) and a trend toward longer survival of the PEG (log rank = 0.08). Conclusions. When compared with both a historical and concurrent cohort of patients, the SafetyBreak device reduces accidental dislodgement of PEG tubes. As an increasing number of PEGs are being placed, an increasing number of patients are at risk for dislodgement. The SafetyBreak device is an innovative, economical solution to the problem of accidental dislodgement of the PEG tube.
Leap Motion Gesture Control With Carestream Software in the Operating Room to Control Imaging
Authors: Pauchot Julien , Di Tommaso Laetitia , Lounis Ahmed , Benassarou Mourad , Mathieu Pierre , Bernot Dominique , Aubry Sébastien
Published: May 2015

Nowadays, routine cross-sectional imaging viewing during a surgical procedure requires physical contact with an interface (mouse or touch-sensitive screen). Such contact risks exposure to aseptic conditions and causes loss of time. Devices such as the recently introduced Leap Motion (Leap Motion Society, San Francisco, CA), which enables interaction with the computer without any physical contact, are of wide interest in the field of surgery, but configuration and ergonomics are key challenges for the practitioner, imaging software, and surgical environment. This article aims to suggest an easy configuration of Leap Motion on a PC for optimized use with Carestream Vue PACS v11.3.4 (Carestream Health, Inc, Rochester, NY) using a plug-in (to download at https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_F4eBeBQc3yNENvTXlnY09qS00&authuser=0 ) and a video tutorial ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVPTgxg-SIk ). Videos of surgical procedure and discussion about innovative gesture control technology and its various configurations are provided in this article.
A model predictive control approach combined unscented Kalman filter vehicle state estimation in intelligent vehicle trajectory tracking
Authors: Yu Hongxiao , Duan Jianmin , Taheri Saied , Cheng Huan , Qi Zhiquan
Published: May 2015

Trajectory tracking and state estimation are significant in the motion planning and intelligent vehicle control. This article focuses on the model predictive control approach for the trajectory tracking of the intelligent vehicles and state estimation of the nonlinear vehicle system. The constraints of the system states are considered when applying the model predictive control method to the practical problem, while 4-degree-of-freedom vehicle model and unscented Kalman filter are proposed to estimate the vehicle states. The estimated states of the vehicle are used to provide model predictive control with real-time control and judge vehicle stability. Furthermore, in order to decrease the cost of solving the nonlinear optimization, the linear time-varying model predictive control is used at each time step. The effectiveness of the proposed vehicle state estimation and model predictive control method is tested by driving simulator. The results of simulations and experiments show that great and robust performance is achieved for trajectory tracking and state estimation in different scenarios.
The wave energy scattering by interaction with the refracted breakwater and varying trench depth
Authors: Kim Sung-Duk , Jun Kye-Won , Lee Ho-Jin
Published: May 2015

The purpose of this study is to estimate the wave height located at the front face of the offshore refracted breakwater when the trench is dredged in the exterior region of the breakwater at various depths. The problems that arise with regard to the different obliquely incident wave field involve having two-dimensional planes and having the configuration of the trench region designated by a single horizontal rectangular system. The numerical approach involves applying the Green function based on the boundary integral approach. The results of the present numerical works are illustrated. The ratio of the wave height reduction at the front face of the refracted breakwater is shown to be more than 25% due to the trench’s effect on the seabed. The corner of the refracted breakwater is where the wave energy is concentrated, and through utilizing the trench, the wave energy can be subdued to reduce the damage on the breakwater. The trench brings about a reduction in wave amplitude and wave energy in, around, and directly downstream of the trench.
Effect of Cu concentration on the semi-solid deformation behavior and microstructure of Ti–Cu alloy
Authors: Chen Yong-Nan , Luo Chuang , Huo Ya-Zhou , Bai Fan , Zhao Yong-Qing , MA Xue-Dan
Published: May 2015

The semi-solid compressive deformation behavior of Ti–Cu alloys was investigated by Gleeble-3500 hot simulator at the deformation temperatures ranging from 1273 to 1473 K with strain rates ranging from 5×10−3 to 5×10−1 s−1. The relationship between Cu concentration and flow stress was analyzed, and the deformation apparent activation energy was also calculated. The results show that Cu concentration has significant influence on the flows’ behavior of Ti–Cu alloys, especially at high semi-solid deformation temperatures. The Ti–14Cu exhibits the highest flow stress at 1273 and 1373 K, Ti–2.5Cu alloy exhibits the highest flow stress at 1473 K, and Ti–7Cu alloy shows the lowest flow stress at all tested temperatures, which corresponds to liquid fraction caused by varied Cu concentration and the deformation temperature. The difference in microstructure suggests that the shape and distribution of Ti2Cu precipitates are significantly affected by Cu concentration. The increase in Cu concentration leads to the growth and precipitation of acicular Ti2Cu along grain boundaries at high semi-solid deformation temperatures. The deformation apparent activation energy of Ti–14Cu alloy significantly decreases from solid deformation to semi-solid deformation owing to the change in main deformation mechanism from plastic deformation of solid particles to solid particles’ slippage and rotation of grain boundaries.
A new rotary ultrasonic motor using longitudinal vibration transducers
Authors: Zhou Xiangyu , Chen Weishan , Liu Junkao
Published: May 2015

To simplify the design process and improve the motor performance, a rotary ultrasonic motor with rotationally symmetrical structure has been designed, fabricated, and characterized. The stator consists of four connected sandwich-type transducers and eight driving feet. The rotor, a disk, and a disk-shaft are pressed on the two sides of the stator by a nut–spring system. To drive the rotor, two orthogonal longitudinal vibration modes of the stator should be excited. The operating principle of the rotary motor was analyzed by a mathematical model. By using finite element analysis, the feasibility of the operating principle was validated, and the optimal structure dimensions of stator were determined in order to improve the driving teeth motion. The overall dimensions of the prototype stator are 30 mm (width) × 30 mm (width) × 50 mm (length). Driven by alternating current signals with the driving frequency of 50.93 kHz and voltage 300 VP-P, the motor gave a maximal no-load speed of 157.9 r/min and a maximal output torque of 11.76 mN m.
A review of follow-up outcomes after elective endovascular repair of degenerative thoracic aortic aneurysms
Authors: Kamman Arnoud V , Jonker Frederik HW , Nauta Foeke JH , Trimarchi Santi , Moll Frans L. , van Herwaarden Joost A
Published: May 2015

Long-term outcomes of elective thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) for degenerative thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA) are not well defined. A review of the literature on the follow-up outcomes of elective TEVAR for degenerative TAA resulted in 22 relevant articles. Two- and five-year freedom from aneurysm-related death varied between 93.0% and 100.0%, and 82.4% to 92.7%, respectively. Two-year and five-year all-cause survival ranged between 68.0% and 97.2% and 47.0% to 78.0%, respectively. Follow-up ranged between 17.3 and 66.0 months. Most common endograft-related complication was endoleak, with reported rate between 1.4% and 14.8% during six months up to five years of follow-up. Endovascular reinterventions were reported in 0.0–32.3%, secondary open surgery was needed in 0.0% to 4.7% during follow-up. Aneurysm-related survival rates after elective TEVAR for degenerative TAA are acceptable. However, reported incidences of endograft-related complications vary considerably in the literature, but the majority can be managed with conservative treatment or additional endovascular procedures.
Skew flap for staged below-knee amputation in sepsis
Authors: Matthews Christopher O , Williams Ian M , Lewis Peter , McLain A David , Twine Christopher P
Published: May 2015

Skew flap amputation was first described in the 1980s but was never as popular as the long posterior flap amputation. This report describes a staged below-knee amputation in sepsis, with pus throughout the leg and a lack of skin coverage. One benefit of skew flaps never previously published is the fact that the suture line is not directly over the tibia. Therefore, an open wound or incomplete skin coverage is not as important as in long posterior flaps where it often leads to bone exposure and revision amputation. These benefits were utilized in this case leading to stump healing.
Rendezvous technique for recanalization of long-segmental chronic total occlusion above the knee following unsuccessful standard angioplasty
Authors: Cao Jun , Lu Hai-Tao , Wei Li-Ming , Zhao Jun-Gong , Zhu Yue-Qi
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To assess the technical feasibility and efficacy of the rendezvous technique, a type of subintimal retrograde wiring, for the treatment of long-segmental chronic total occlusions above the knee following unsuccessful standard angioplasty.

Methods

The rendezvous technique was attempted in eight limbs of eight patients with chronic total occlusions above the knee after standard angioplasty failed. The clinical symptoms and ankle-brachial index were compared before and after the procedure. At follow-up, pain relief, wound healing, limb salvage, and the presence of restenosis of the target vessels were evaluated.

Results

The rendezvous technique was performed successfully in seven patients (87.5%) and failed in one patient (12.5%). Foot pain improved in all seven patients who underwent successful treatment, with ankle-brachial indexes improving from 0.23 ± 0.13 before to 0.71 ± 0.09 after the procedure ( P < 0.001). At the end of the follow-up period, the visual analogue scale improved from 6.86 ± 1.57 to 1.57 ± 1.27 ( P < 0.001). Non-healing ulcers in three patients either healed (n = 2) or improved (n = 1). No major amputation was necessary. Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed that stenosis-free rate was 83.3% at six months and 41.7% at 12 months.

Conclusion

The rendezvous technique is a feasible and effective treatment for chronic total occlusions above the knee when standard angioplasty fails.
The ethics of social honeypots
Authors: Dittrich David
Published: May 2015

This paper considers some of the ethical issues surrounding the study of malicious activity in social networks, specifically using a technique known as social honeypots combined with the use of deception. This is a potentially touchy area of study that is common to social and behavioral research that is well understood to fall within the boundaries of human subjects research that is regulated in the United States and reviewed by institutional review boards, but is not well understood by computer security researchers or those in the private sector. The firestorm of controversy over the 2014 “emotional contagion” study of Facebook users shows that learning about being deceived may itself be the harm, to both those users involved and their trust in researchers and research in general. Should researchers have an obligation to try to find research methods that do not involve deception to achieve the same research results?
Cultural and rhetorical traditions of communication within African / Black thinking
Authors: Langmia Kehbuma , Haddad Nunez Aitza M
Published: May 2015

From a globalization and glocalization lens, this article has examined two interdependent communication traditions (socio-cultural and rhetorical), outlined by Robert Craig in his magnum opus ‘Communication theory as a field’ published in Communication Theory in 1999; and how African thought and, to an extent, emotion can be repositioned through the local and international legal system, more specifically in the popular Bhe Case in South Africa. African thought can effectively and efficiently be explained through a theoretical binocular of what Molefi Asante has aptly called ‘Afrocentricity.’ The African thought on which this article is anchored is what Karenga also called ‘Maat,’ which means ‘rightness in the spiritual and the moral sense in three realms: the divine, the natural and the social.’ We conclude that yoking globalization influences on the socio-cultural and rhetorical traditions of the African and Black people can create uncomfortable bedmates.
Universality or commensurability: Can the latter bridge the culture gap?
Authors: Zagidullina Marina
Published: May 2015

The commensurability / incommensurability (C/I) model, as an element of meta-discoursive practice, helps to focus attention on the culture specificity of journalism studies that influences journalistic practice; the configuration of the information field, as well as the public’s perception of the world (common–national worldview). Russian journalism studies and, more generally, the national style of making the news agenda, show a culture gap between ‘an ideal model’ of Western journalism and a Russian analogue within the national information field itself. Today’s Russian journalism and Russian journalism studies are not interested in culture-specific topics. The conflict between Western standards of journalism (and Western-oriented theories of journalism) and expectations of the public is increasingly deemed crucial. The inner cultural gap can be bridged using the C/I model if professional actors both in journalism practice and in journalism education accept three general lines of reflection: (a) recognition of the Western model of journalism as the only acceptable and institutionally supported model in Russian education; (b) investigation of the cultural divide between the practice of this model and the expectations of the Russian public; and (c) searching for their own specific model. The last option could emerge from the juxtaposition of native and ‘foreign’ informational culture. It would require a definition of ‘culture-specific’ in the C/I model allowing a description of the local understanding of journalism/communication within a meta-theory of communication.
Pollicization of the index finger requiring secondary fusion of the new metacarpophalangeal joint
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: May 2015

In children with absent thumbs, some authors have stated that ‘relative’ contraindications of pollicization include severe fixed flexion contracture and instability of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the index finger. The current author does not consider severe proximal interphalangeal joint deformities of the index finger as a contraindication to pollicization; and hence these children are offered the procedure. A literature review did not reveal any study that specifically documents the outcome of pollicization in these cases. The current series included five children: four with severe (over 80°) fixed flexion contracture of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the index finger and one with instability of the proximal interphalangeal joint. All children were initially assessed during infancy at their local hospitals and the parents were informed that a pollicization procedure would yield a poor outcome. Presentation to the author was relatively late at a mean of 9.3 years (range 2.5–12). All children underwent two surgical procedures: a pollicization followed by fusion of the new metacarpophalangeal joint. The overall early functional outcome was good and all children/parents were satisfied with the procedure. These encouraging results warrant a prospective long term study on various conditions that are considered as ‘relative’ contraindications to the pollicization procedure.

Level evidence: IV Therapeutic (case series)
Emerging therapies for the prevention of acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Ruthman Carl A. , Festic Emir
Published: May 2015

The development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) carries significant risk of morbidity and mortality. To date, pharmacological therapy has been largely ineffective for patients with ARDS. We present our personal review aimed at outlining current and future directions for the pharmacological prevention of ARDS.

Several available risk-stratification or prediction score strategies for identification of patients at risk of ARDS have been reported. Although not ready for clinical everyday use, they are and will be instrumental in the ongoing and future trials of pharmacoprevention of ARDS.

Several systemic medications established the potential role in ARDS prevention based on the preclinical studies and observational data. Due to potential for systemic adverse effects to neutralize any pharmacological benefits of systemic therapy, inhaled medications appear particularly attractive candidates for ARDS prevention. This is because of their direct delivery to the site of proposed action (lungs), while the pulmonary epithelial surface is still functional.

We postulate that overall morbidity and mortality rates from ARDS in the future will be contingent upon decreasing the overall incidence of ARDS through effective identification of those at risk and early application of proven supportive care and pharmacological interventions.
Performance and System Validation of a New Cellular-Enabled Blood Glucose Monitoring System Using a New Standard Reference Measurement Procedure of Isotope Dilution UPLC-MRM Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Angelides Kimon , Matsunami Risë K. , Engler David A.
Published: May 2015

Background:

We evaluated the accuracy, precision, and linearity of the In Touch® blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS), a new color touch screen and cellular-enabled blood glucose meter, using a new rapid, highly precise and accurate 13C6 isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method (IDLC-MS).

Methods:

Blood glucose measurements from the In Touch® BGMS were referenced to a validated UPLC-MRM standard reference measurement procedure previously shown to be highly accurate and precise. Readings from the In Touch® BGMS were taken over the blood glucose range of 24-640 mg/dL using 12 concentrations of blood glucose. Ten In Touch® BGMS and 3 lots of test strips were used with 10 replicates at each concentration. A lay user study was also performed to assess the ease of use.

Results:

At blood glucose concentrations <75 mg/dL 100% of the measurements are within ±8 mg/dL from the true reference standard; at blood glucose levels >75 mg/dL 100% of the measurements are within ±15% of the true reference standard. 100% of the results are within category A of the consensus grid. Within-run precision show CV < 3.72% between 24-50 mg/dL and CV<2.22% between 500 and 600 mg/dL. The results show that the In Touch® meter exceeds the minimum criteria of both the ISO 15197:2003 and ISO 15197:2013 standards. The results from a user panel show that 100% of the respondents reported that the color touch screen, with its graphic user interface (GUI), is well labeled and easy to navigate.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge this is the first touch screen glucose meter and the first study where accuracy of a new BGMS has been measured against a true primary reference standard, namely IDLC-MS.
Evaluation of a Methodology for Estimating HbA1c Value by a New Glucose Meter
Authors: Sieber Jochen , Flacke Frank , Dumais Bonnie , Peters Casey C. , Mallery Erin B. , Taylor Liz
Published: May 2015

Background:

Accuracy/robustness of HbA1c estimation (eA1c) with an algorithm built into the MyStar Extra blood glucose (BG) meter has been demonstrated by in silico testing. We evaluated the performance and use of eA1c in a clinical setting.

Methods:

Subjects took the BG meter home for 4 months to obtain eA1c in this open-label, single-center study. Laboratory HbA1c values were obtained approximately every 2 weeks and the corresponding eA1c documented. Subjects completed a questionnaire at study end (NCT01885546).

Results:

There were 133 enrolled subjects (mean [SD] age 60.0 [15.0] years, 69 males, 104 with diabetes, HbA1c 7.0% [1.4]). A total of 1008 pairs of eA1c and laboratory HbA1c values were available. In subjects with diabetes, 97.5% of the eA1c results fell within ±20% of the laboratory HbA1c, 95.0% within ±18%, and 90.7% within ±15%. When results were limited to the reportable HbA1c range of ≥6 to ≤10%, 99.3% of eA1c values fell within ±20% of the laboratory HbA1c, 98.5% within ±18%, and 96.2% within ±15% Most subjects agreed/strongly agreed that the eA1c section in the user guide and flash cards was easy to follow (72%), they would use the system to track their eA1c (70%), they found the eA1c tool helpful (79%), and the tool may motivate them to manage their diabetes better (83%).

Conclusions:

Accuracy of the eA1c feature in this clinical setting was similar to the performance in silico. The majority of subjects found this tool helpful and agreed it may motivate to manage their diabetes better.
Investigating the Veracity of Self-Perceived Posttraumatic Growth
Authors: Blackie Laura E. R. , Jayawickreme Eranda , Helzer Erik G. , Forgeard Marie J. C. , Roepke Ann Marie
Published: May 2015

Research into posttraumatic growth—positive psychological change that people report in their relationships, priorities in life, and self-perception after experiences of adversity—has been severely critiqued. We investigated the degree to which community members’ friends and relatives corroborated targets’ self-perceived positive and negative changes as measured by the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory-42. We found corroboration only for negative changes when we examined overall (averaged) scores. However, using a profile analysis procedure, we found significant participant–informant agreement on the domains of change that had relatively higher scores in the target’s profile and those that had relatively lower scores. Our results demonstrate that informants were able to observe that targets had changed and were sensitive to the idiosyncratic ways in which these changes had manifested in targets’ behavior.
Beyond “connected presence”: Multimedia mobile instant messaging in close relationship management
Authors: Cui Di
Published: May 2015

Despite its worldwide popularity, mobile instant messaging (MIM) as a new mode of interpersonal communication has received scant scholarly attention by far. Drawing upon the notion of “connected presence,” this study extends related discussions by exploring the patterns of MIM interaction in the management of close relationships. Focusing on WeChat, the most popular MIM in China, this study presents findings based on interviews with young Chinese as WeChat users. This study finds that WeChat’s wide functionality enabled multimodal communication in varying situations. Four modes of WeChat interaction were identified: General information exchange, experience articulation, technical support, and sympathetic companionship. The study also analyzes how user construction attaches social meaning to certain communicative practices on WeChat.
Can the post-colonial be post-religious? Reflections from the secular metropolis
Authors: Viefhues-Bailey Ludger
Published: May 2015

If, following Masuzawa, Fitzgerald and others we assume that “the religious” is a category produced by Western colonial regimes in tandem with that of “the secular,” then consequently the post-secular would need to be post-religious, as well. Here I demonstrate how in one metropolitan case, Germany, the religious and secular divide is evoked to produce a particular exclusivist narrative of national identity. A substantial part of German civil society, media, and legal establishment mobilize an imagined culturally Christian vision of Germany in order to exclude from public visibility and political participation German born Muslims of Turkish descent. The colonial twin categories of secular-religious still operate in the shaping of the German polity. Decolonizing it would thus require not only to enter a post-secular dialogue with religious presentations in the public sphere, as Habermas contends; rather a post-secular polity would require the post-religious.
Girls and Young Women Living in the Slums of Kampala
Authors: Swahn Monica H. , Dill LeConté J. , Palmier Jane B. , Kasirye Rogers
Published: May 2015

This study determined the prevalence and correlates of victimization among girls and young women in Kampala. The study population, a convenience sample of youth living in the slums, were 14 to 24 years of age, and participants in community-based drop-in centers ( N = 313). Overall, the prevalence of physical fights (37%), being threatened or injured with a weapon (28%), and being raped (30%) was high and increased with age. Multivariate analyses revealed that sadness, drunkenness, and hunger were associated with multiple forms of victimization. Findings suggest that additional services are needed to address the cumulative impact of victimizations, depression, and living conditions.
Discussing Chevalier’s Data on the Efficiency of Tariffs for American and French Canals in the 1830s
Authors: Mourao Paulo Reis
Published: May 2015

This article revisits Michel Chevalier’s work and discussions of tariffs. Chevalier shifted from Saint-Simonism to economic liberalism during his life in the 19th century. His influence was soon perceived in the political world and economic debates, mainly because of his discussion of tariffs as instruments of efficient transport policies. This work discusses Chevalier’s thoughts on tariffs by revisiting his masterpiece, Le Cours d’Économie Politique. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was conducted to test Chevalier’s hypothesis on the inefficiency of French tariffs. This work showed that Chevalier’s claims on French tariffs are not validated by DEA.