bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ЕЛЕМЕНТИ ІНТЕРФЕЙСУ НАУКОВО-ДОСЛІДНОГО WEB-РЕСУРСУ PHYSIONET ТА ІМПОРТ ДАНИХ У СИСТЕМУ КОМП'ЮТЕРНОЇ МАТЕМАТИКИ MAPLE 17
Authors: Chuiko G. P. , Shyian I. O. , Galyak D. A.
Published: October 2015

Since 1999, PhysioNet (http://physionet.org/) has offered free access via the web to large collections of recorded physiologic signals and medical databases as well as associated open-source software. The intention of this scientific resource is to stimulate current research and new investigations in the study of cardiovascular and other complex biomedical signals. PhysioBank archives include today the records obtained from healthy individuals and from patients with different diagnoses obtained under various conditions. It includes sudden cardiac death, congestive heart failure, neurological disorders, epilepsy and many others. Software packages PhysioToolkit is valuable for physiological signal processing and analysis, for creation of new databases, the interactive display and characterization of signals, the simulation of physiological and other signals. Nonetheless, a researcher should have skills to work with the operating system Unix and be knowledgeable in special commands to successful use software PhysioToolkit. Therefore, it makes sense to convert the necessary signals to a user-friendly computer algebra system. This paper describes interface elements of scientific web-resource PhysioNet, the simple methods of converting from binary medical data files to the text format and import of received digital signals into computer mathematics system Maple 17.
Cell-Free DNA Modulates Clot Structure and Impairs Fibrinolysis in Sepsis
Authors: Gould Travis J. , Vu Trang T. , Stafford Alan R. , Dwivedi Dhruva J. , Kim Paul Y. , Fox-Robichaud Alison E. , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Liaw Patricia C.
Published: October 2015

Objectives—

Sepsis is characterized by systemic activation of inflammation and coagulation in response to infection. In sepsis, activated neutrophils extrude neutrophil extracellular traps composed of cell-free DNA (CFDNA) that not only trap pathogens but also provide a stimulus for clot formation. Although the effect of CFDNA on coagulation has been extensively studied, much less is known about the impact of CFDNA on fibrinolysis. To address this, we (1) investigated the relationship between CFDNA levels and fibrinolytic activity in sepsis and (2) determined the mechanisms by which CFDNA modulates fibrinolysis.

Approach and Results—

Plasma was collected from healthy and septic individuals, and CFDNA was quantified. Clot lysis assays were performed in plasma and purified systems, and lysis times were determined by monitoring absorbance. Clot morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy. Clots formed in plasma from septic patients containing >5 µg/mL CFDNA were dense in structure and resistant to fibrinolysis, a phenomenon overcome by deoxyribonuclease addition. These effects were recapitulated in control plasma supplemented with CFDNA. In a purified system, CFDNA delayed fibrinolysis but did not alter tissue-type plasminogen activator–induced plasmin generation. Using surface plasmon resonance, CFDNA bound plasmin with a
K
d
value of 4.2±0.3 µmol/L, and increasing concentrations of CFDNA impaired plasmin-mediated degradation of fibrin clots via the formation of a nonproductive ternary complex between plasmin, CFDNA, and fibrin.

Conclusions—

Our studies suggest that the increased levels of CFDNA in sepsis impair fibrinolysis by inhibiting plasmin-mediated fibrin degradation, thereby identifying CFDNA as a potential therapeutic target for sepsis treatment.
Association of Plasma γ′ Fibrinogen With Incident Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Appiah Duke , Schreiner Pamela J. , MacLehose Richard F. , Folsom Aaron R.
Published: October 2015

Objectives—

To prospectively examine the association of plasma γ′ fibrinogen with the incidence of multiple cardiovascular disease (CVD) end points, independent of established CVD risk factors, total fibrinogen, and other inflammatory markers.

Approach and Results—

The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study measured γ′ fibrinogen by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in stored plasma samples from 1993 to 1995 and related levels in 10 601 adults to incident CVD end points (coronary heart disease [n=1603], ischemic stroke [n=548], peripheral artery disease [n=599], heart failure [n=1411], and CVD mortality [n=705]) through 2012 (median follow-up, 18 years). In Cox models accounting for established CVD risk factors and total fibrinogen levels, γ′ fibrinogen was associated positively with peripheral artery disease (hazard ratio [HR] per 1-SD [8.80 mg/dL] increment, 1.14 [1.04–1.24]), heart failure (HR, 1.06 [1.01–1.13]), and CVD deaths (HR, 1.12 [1.04–1.21]) but not with incident coronary heart disease (HR, 1.01 [0.96–1.07]) or ischemic stroke (HR, 0.98 [0.89–1.07]). Additional adjustment for C-reactive protein, however, eliminated the associations with peripheral artery disease and heart failure.

Conclusions—

These findings do not lend support to the hypothesis that γ′ fibrinogen influences CVD events through its prothrombotic properties. Rather, γ′ fibrinogen concentrations seem to reflect general inflammation that accompanies and may contribute to atherosclerotic CVD, instead of γ′ fibrinogen being a causal risk factor.
Modelled on Archigenes theiotatos: Alexander of Tralles and his Use of Natural Remedies (physika)
Authors: Bouras-Vallianatos Petros
Published: October 2015

In contrast to other Late Antique medical authors, Alexander of Tralles uses the epithettheiotatos(most divine) when referring to Archigenes. This appellation becomes even more significant if one considers that Alexander otherwise only applies it to Hippocrates and Galen. Since the majority of Alexander’s mentions of Archigenes stress his recommendation of popular healing practices, which most medical authors excluded from their work, I argue that for Alexander Archigenes was a model of a well-known ancient medical authority who chose to make consistent use of natural remedies (physika).
Protecting the Rights of Working Children instead of Banning Child Labour
Authors: Liebel Manfred
Published: October 2015

In Bolivia, a Children and Youth Code has come into force, which sets new standards for the understanding and implementation of children’s rights. It interprets children’s rights within the traditions of indigenous communities and with respect to the social and cultural reality of the country. For the first time, regulations are stipulated for working children which do not simply prohibit their work. Instead rights and protective measures are granted to protect them from exploitation and power abuse and at the same time to enable them to live in dignity. This section of the code, which triggered controversial debates internationally, is at the core of this paper. First, the most significant elements of the Act are set out in order to address the issue of working children. Its conflict-ridden history is reconstructed by reflecting on an earlier draft that had been developed by working children and adolescents themselves. Finally, the meaning of the new act for working children is critically acclaimed.
The Impact of Mandatory Reporting Legislation on New Zealand Secondary School Students’ Attitudes towards Disclosure of Child Abuse
Authors: Lawson Deborah , Niven Brian
Published: October 2015

Few studies have sought the views of children and young people in relation to child abuse reporting laws and policies, including mandatory reporting of child abuse. This study* sought to determine whether mandatory reporting legislation would have an impact on secondary school students’ attitudes towards: (a) disclosing abuse to a teacher or school counsellor; and (b) attending school, if they had been obviously physically abused. A stratified random sample of 466 secondary school students in two New Zealand provinces answered nine questions in response to an in-class written survey. Results indicated that the introduction of mandatory reporting legislation in New Zealand would deter secondary students from disclosing abuse to teachers and school counsellors. Further, the introduction of mandatory reporting laws might deter students from attending school if they had been obviously physically abused.
Strengthening Colombian Indicators for Protection in Early Childhood
Authors: Cook Philip
Published: October 2015

This paper provides an overview of protection indicators developed for Colombia’s Intersectoral Commission for Comprehensive Early Childhood Care for the Early Childhood Comprehensive Care Strategy, “De Cero a Siempre”. De Cero a Siempre Strategy promotes the national public policy to strengthen the realization of rights for children aged 0–6 and is laudable in its holistic approach to supporting children’s rights in the early years. The paper provides a context on progress made in strengthening international norms and standards in child protection during early childhood and presents a summary of current frameworks for early years risk and protection indicator development, in particular the un Committee on the Rights of the Child General Comments No. 7 (Early Childhood) and No. 13 (Prevention of Violence). The paper presents a framework of risk and protection indicators, drawing on gcs Nos. 7 and 13, across the first five moments of the lifecycle, and four social environments of home, educational environment (ecd, kindergarten, and school), health environment and public space. The paper also suggests opportunities for community involvement in piloting these indicators. Finally the paper recommends a strategy for Colombian municipalities to incorporate indicators for protection in early childhood, and suggests five specific ways the data gathered from the indicators can be used to strengthen outcomes for children in the early years impacted by De Cero a Siempre policy and its programmes.
Teachers as Brokers
Authors: Mentha Sue , Church Amelia , Page Jane
Published: October 2015

This paper explores a small sample of Australian early childhood teachers’ perceptions of the rights-based conceptsparticipationandagency. We recognise and reconcile some of the perceived tensions between the debates on participation and protection and how these play out in the teaching and learning spaces of early childhood education. Teachers’ reflections on these concepts in relation to practice are highly significant to the field, connecting the concepts of children’s rights to the reality of everyday practices in early childhood education and care settings. As brokers or conduits to participation in early learning environments, a better understanding of teacher’s professional stance enables opportunities for young children to be better heard. An understanding of complexities and relatedness within these settings, can lead to more consistent and clear policy implementation.
Two new Nitzschia species (Bacillariophyceae) from China, possessing a canal-raphe-conopeum system
Authors: LIU BING , BLANCO SAÚL , HUANG BANGQIN
Published: October 2015

Two new species in the diatom genus Nitzschia were found in the middle intertidal zone, Xiamen Bay, southern China. Both new taxa belong to the subgenus Nitzschia, as inferred from the presence of a canal-raphe-conopeum system. The valves of both new species are dorsiventral. In Nitzschia arierae sp. nov., the raphe system is positioned centrally, the conopea fuse to the valve face at supporting points, and the zone of valve face subtended by the conopeum has areolae. In Nitzschia gaoi sp. nov., the raphe system is centrally positioned or slightly eccentric, two large conopea extend out from near the raphe while two small conopea extend out from each transverse costa and cover the striae, most part of the zone of valve face subtended by the conopeum has no areolae, and there are two long produced rostrate apices that both arch toward the ventral side or one apex arches and the other is straight. Both new species are epipelic forms inhabiting the coastal environment.
Relative Contributions of Mean-State Shifts and ENSO-Driven Variability to Precipitation Changes in a Warming Climate*
Authors: Bonfils Céline J. W. , Santer Benjamin D. , Phillips Thomas J. , Marvel Kate , Leung L. Ruby , Doutriaux Charles , Capotondi Antonietta
Published: October 2015

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is an important driver of regional hydroclimate variability through far-reaching teleconnections. This study uses simulations performed with coupled general circulation models (CGCMs) to investigate how regional precipitation in the twenty-first century may be affected by changes in both ENSO-driven precipitation variability and slowly evolving mean rainfall. First, a dominant, time-invariant pattern of canonical ENSO variability (cENSO) is identified in observed SST data. Next, the fidelity with which 33 state-of-the-art CGCMs represent the spatial structure and temporal variability of this pattern (as well as its associated precipitation responses) is evaluated in simulations of twentieth-century climate change. Possible changes in both the temporal variability of this pattern and its associated precipitation teleconnections are investigated in twenty-first-century climate projections. Models with better representation of the observed structure of the cENSO pattern produce winter rainfall teleconnection patterns that are in better accord with twentieth-century observations and more stationary during the twenty-first century. Finally, the model-predicted twenty-first-century rainfall response to cENSO is decomposed into the sum of three terms: 1) the twenty-first-century change in the mean state of precipitation, 2) the historical precipitation response to the cENSO pattern, and 3) a future enhancement in the rainfall response to cENSO, which amplifies rainfall extremes. By examining the three terms jointly, this conceptual framework allows the identification of regions likely to experience future rainfall anomalies that are without precedent in the current climate.
Two Simple Metrics for Quantifying Rainfall Intermittency: The Burstiness and Memory of Interamount Times
Authors: Schleiss Marc , Smith James A.
Published: October 2015

Precipitation displays a remarkable variability in space and time. An important yet poorly documented aspect of this variability is intermittency. In this paper, a new way of quantifying intermittency based on the burstiness B and memory M of interamount times is proposed. The method is applied to a unique dataset of 325 high-resolution rain gauges in the United States and Europe. Results show that the M–B diagram provides useful insight into local precipitation patterns and can be used to study intermittency over a wide range of temporal scales. It is found that precipitation tends to be more intermittent in warm and dry climates with the largest observed values in the southwest of the United States (i.e., California, Nevada, Arizona, and Texas). Low-to-moderate values are reported for the northeastern United States, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany. In the second half of the paper, the new metrics are applied to daily rainfall data for 1954–2013 to investigate regional trends in intermittency due to climate variability and global warming. No evidence is found of a global shift in intermittency but a weak trend toward burstier precipitation patterns and longer dry spells in the south of Europe (i.e., Portugal, Spain, and Italy) and an opposite trend toward steadier and more correlated precipitation patterns in Norway, Sweden, and Finland is observed.
Linkages between Large-Scale Climate Patterns and Karst Spring Discharge in Northern China
Authors: Huo Xueli , Liu Zhongfang , Duan Qingyun , Hao Pengmei , Zhang Yanyan , Hao Yonghong , Zhan Hongbin
Published: October 2015

The Niangziguan Springs (NS) discharge is used as a proxy indicator of the variability of the karst groundwater system in relation to major climate indices such as El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), Indian summer monsoon (ISM), and west North Pacific monsoon (WNPM). The relationships between spring discharge and these climate indices are determined using the multitaper method (MTM), continuous wavelet transform (CWT), and wavelet transform coherence (WTC). Significant periodic components of spring discharge in the 1-, 3.4-, and 26.8-yr periodicities are identified and reconstructed for further investigation of the correlation between spring discharge and large-scale climate patterns on these time scales. Correlation coefficients and WTC between spring discharge and the climate indices indicate that variability in spring discharge is significantly and positively correlated with monsoon indices in the 1-yr periodicity and negatively correlated with ENSO in the 3.4-yr periodicity and PDO in the 26.8-yr periodicity. This suggests that the oscillations of the spring discharge on annual, interannual, and interdecadal time scales are dominated by monsoon, ENSO, and PDO in the NS basin, respectively. Results show that monsoons modulate the spring discharge by affecting local meteorological parameters. ENSO and PDO impact the variability of the NS discharge by affecting the climate conditions in northern China.
Cognitive neuropsychological functioning in New Zealand Māori diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Kake Tai R , Garrett Nicholas , Te Aonui Menetta
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Previous research suggests that New Zealand Māori may have an elevated rate of schizophrenia. However, there is limited evidence on important clinical features of the illness in this population. This study examined cognitive neuropsychological functioning in 54 adult Māori diagnosed with schizophrenia and 56 Māori controls. This study also examined associations between cognition, medication and symptoms of psychosis in the schizophrenia group.

Method:

The groups were matched on socio-demographic variables, handedness and premorbid cognitive ability. Participants were assessed on neuropsychological tests of attention, executive ability, motor, premorbid ability, verbal/non-verbal memory and verbal fluency (English/Māori versions). The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale was used to assess psychotic symptoms. Information on cultural identity, duration of illness, duration of untreated psychosis, medication and substance abuse was collected.

Results:

The performance of the schizophrenia group was significantly lower than the control group on all the neuropsychological tests, except the test of attention. The effect sizes were moderate to large: 0.78 for motor function; 1.3 for executive ability, verbal fluency and visual memory; 1.6 for verbal learning and 1.8 for verbal memory. These differences remained after adjustment for multiple comparisons and covariates. A higher dose of antipsychotic medication and a higher anticholinergic load were associated with greater verbal memory impairment ( r = −0.38 and r = −0.38, respectively). A longer duration of illness was associated with greater impairment of verbal memory (rho = −0.48), verbal learning (rho = −0.41) and visual memory (rho = −0.44).

Conclusion:

The findings for the schizophrenia group show a profile of generalised cognitive impairment with greater impairment of verbal memory. The cognitive impairment in this group was independent of psychotic symptoms, but was associated with a higher antipsychotic dose, higher anticholinergic load and longer duration of illness. These findings have implications for clinical prescribing practices and rehabilitation for New Zealand Māori diagnosed with schizophrenia.
Ultra-lightweight composite proppants prepared via suspension polymerization
Authors: Zhang Yonghan , Yan Chunjie , Chen Tao , Wang Yixia
Published: October 2015

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/modified fly ash (MFA) composite particles have been prepared via suspension polymerization. Scanning electron microscopic results show that PMMA/MFA composite particles have perfect sphericity and roundness. Fourier transform infrared and X-ray diffraction analysis demonstrate that MFA powder is integrated with PMMA in the composites. Acid solubility tests illustrate that the particles have a good resistance to acid. In addition, apparent density of the particles (20–40 mesh) is 1.049–1.135 g/cm3 which is much lower than sand and ceramic proppants. Thermodynamic tests reveal that thermostability of the composites is significantly improved with increasing MFA addition content, which proves the particles could be used in deep underground. Furthermore, the crushing rate decreases to 3% with MFA addition content of 50% under the pressure of 69 MPa. Therefore, the composite particles manifest a promising application in shale oil or gas hydraulic fracturing as ultra-lightweight proppants.
Modeling and analysis of the electrical braking energy of urban railway vehicles
Authors: Yang Jian , Hou Yue , Song Ruigang , Yuan Tianchen
Published: October 2015

In this paper, the energy distribution of electrical braking for an urban railway transportation system is studied. In order to calculate the percentage of regenerative and resistance braking energy, line 2 of the Shanghai Metro traction power network is modeled through an analysis approach. An effective method is proposed to establish the equivalent models for each part of the traction power network. The parameters and conditions are based on real parameters from the Shanghai Metro line 2. When the departure interval is 200 seconds, the regenerative braking energy accounts for 71.8% of the total electrical braking energy based on the simulation data and 69.3% of the total electrical braking energy based on the measured data. This paper can provide a theoretical basis for energy-saving evaluation of urban railway transportation systems.
Additional postoperative cell salvage of shed mediastinal blood in cardiac surgery does not reduce allogeneic blood transfusions: a cohort study
Authors: Vermeijden Wytze J , Hagenaars Johanna AM , Scheeren Thomas WL , de Vries Adrianus J
Published: October 2015

Objectives:

Does additional postoperative collection and processing of mediastinal shed blood with a cell salvage device reduce the number of allogeneic blood transfusions compared to intraoperative cell salvage alone?

Methods:

A single-centre cohort study in which adult patients with coronary artery bypass grafting or aortic valve replacement were allocated to either a C.A.T.S® group with intraoperative blood processing only or a CardioPat® group with both intra- and postoperative blood processing. The primary endpoint was the number of allogeneic blood transfusions during hospital admission.

Results:

The study included 99 patients; 50 in the C.A.T.S® and 49 in the CardioPat® group. There was no difference in the number of red blood cells (RBC) (C.A.T.S® group 43 units versus CardioPat® 50 units, p=0.74), fresh frozen plasma (C.A.T.S® 8 units versus CardioPat® 8 units, p=1.00) or platelets (C.A.T.S® 5 units versus CardioPat® 4 units, p=1.00) transfused during the hospital stay. Cardiac creatinine kinase (CK-MB) and troponin levels did not differ between the groups although a significant time effect (p<0.001) was present. Creatinine kinase (CK) levels were not different between the groups three hours after arrival in the intensive care unit (ICU) (CardioPat® group versus C.A.T.S® group, p=0.17). But, compared to the C.A.T.S® group on the first (350 [232-469] IU/L) and second postoperative days (325 [201-480] IU/L), the increase in CK levels was more in the CardioPat® group on the first (431 [286-642] IU/L, p=0.02) and second postoperative days (406 [239-760] IU/L, p=0.05), resulting in a difference between the groups (p=0.04)

Conclusions:

Postoperative cell salvage does not reduce transfusion requirements compared to intraoperative cell salvage alone, but results in elevated total CK levels that suggest haemolysis.
The importance of the feasibility study: Lessons from a study of the hand-held fan used to relieve dyspnea in people who are breathless at rest
Authors: Booth Sara , Galbraith Sarah , Ryan Richella , Parker Richard A , Johnson Miriam
Published: October 2015

Background:

The dyspnea accompanying advanced cardiorespiratory disease is often refractory to palliation. It is disabling, distressing and associated with the diseases most common everywhere in the world. The hand-held fan, used to generate a draught across the face, is a simple, cost-effective, safe, and universally applicable palliative breathlessness intervention, consistently described as valuable in qualitative research. A previous crossover trial confirmed its benefit in patients breathless at rest, but the washout period was uncertain.

Aim:

To determine the washout period after use of the hand-held fan to inform accurate randomized controlled trial design.

Design:

An observational methodological study. Breathlessness intensity was measured using 100 mm visual analog scale and numerical rating scale, and “relief of breathlessness” was measured on a 5-point scale. Those benefitting from the fan provided visual analog scale/numerical rating scale scores until (1) scores returned to baseline values or (2) until response had plateaued. The primary outcome measure was the time (in minutes) to reach either component of the primary study endpoint.

Settings/participants:

Four in-/out-patient hospice/hospital units; participants had chronic refractory breathlessness using the fan.

Results:

Overall, 31 patients participated (mean age: 74.8 years; range: 49–98 years, standard deviation = 11.5 years); 64% were males. Approximately, half of the sample experienced benefit of moderate effect size. The relative reduction in breathlessness relative to the mean baseline score for the sample was 27% for the visual analog scale and 19% for the numerical rating scale.

Conclusion:

Feasibility work is essential, even for simple widely employed interventions.
Brazilian Valuation of EQ-5D-3L Health States
Authors: Santos Marisa , Cintra Monica A. C. T. , Monteiro Andrea L. , Santos Braulio , Gusmão-filho Fernando , Andrade Mônica Viegas , Noronha Kenya , Cruz Luciane N. , Camey Suzi , Tura Bernardo , Kind Paul
Published: October 2015

Background. Most EQ-5D-3L valuation studies include the same sample of health states that was used in the protocol of the original UK Measurement and Valuation of Health (MVH) study. Thus far, no studies using a time tradeoff utility elicitation method have been carried out using all 243 EQ-5D health states. Because the values and preferences regarding health outcomes differ among countries, it is essential to have country-specific data to enable local high-level decisions regarding resource allocation. This study developed a country-specific set of values for EQ-5D-3L health states. Methods. A multicentric study was conducted in 4 Brazilian areas. A probabilistic sample of the general population, aged 18 to 64 y, stratified by age and gender, was surveyed. The interview followed a revised version of the MVH protocol, in which all 243 health states were valued. Each respondent ranked and valued 7 health states using the TTO in a home interview. Results. Data were collected from 9148 subjects. The best-fitting regression model was an individual-level mixed-effects model without any interaction terms. The dimensions “Mobility” and “Usual Activities” were associated with higher losses in health state utility value. The “Anxiety/Depression” dimension was the domain that contributed to lower losses in health state utility value. Conclusions. This study generated significant insight into the Brazilian population’s health preferences that can be applied to health technology assessment and economic analyses in Brazil. This information represents an important new tool that can be used in Brazilian health policy creation and evaluation.
Asynchronous adaptive conditioning for visual–inertial SLAM
Authors: Keivan Nima , Sibley Gabe
Published: October 2015

This paper is concerned with real-time monocular visual–inertial simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). In particular a tightly coupled nonlinear-optimization-based solution that can match the global optimal result in real time is proposed. The methodology is motivated by the requirement to produce a scale-correct visual map, in an optimization framework that is able to incorporate relocalization and loop closure constraints. Special attention is paid to achieve robustness to many real world difficulties, including degenerate motions and unobservablity. A variety of helpful techniques are used, including: a relative manifold representation, a minimal-state inverse depth parameterization, and robust non-metric initialization and tracking. Importantly, to enable real-time operation and robustness, a novel numerical dog-leg solver is presented that employs multi-threaded, asynchronous, adaptive conditioning. In this approach, the conditioning edges of the SLAM graph are adaptively identified and solved for both synchronously and asynchronously. In this way one thread focuses on a small number of temporally immediate parameters and hence constitute a natural “front-end”; the other thread adaptively focuses on larger portions of the SLAM problem, and hence is able to re-estimate past parameters in the presence of new information: an ability that is useful for self-calibration, during degenerate motions, or when bias and the direction of gravity are poorly observed. Experiments with real and simulated data for both indoor and outdoor scenarios demonstrate that asynchronous adaptive conditioning is accurate, and able to closely track the batch SLAM maximum likelihood solution in real time.
Athletic Performance at the NFL Scouting Combine After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Keller Robert A. , Mehran Nima , Austin William , Marshall Nathan E. , Bastin Kevin , Moutzouros Vasilios
Published: October 2015

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common and potentially career ending in the National Football League (NFL). Although statistical performance has been demonstrated after ACL reconstruction, functional performance is not well defined.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to determine the functional performance of NFL combine participants after ACL reconstruction compared with an age-, size-, and position-matched control group. The hypothesis was that there would be no difference between players after ACL reconstruction as compared with controls in functional athletic performance.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 98 NFL-caliber athletes who had undergone primary ACL reconstruction and participated in the NFL scouting combine between 2010 and 2014 were reviewed and compared with an age-, size-, and position-matched control group. Data recorded for each player included a 40-yard dash, vertical leap, broad jump, shuttle drill, and 3-cone drill.

Results:

With regard to speed and acceleration, the mean 40-yard dash time for ACL-reconstructed players was 4.74 seconds (range, 4.33-5.55 seconds) compared with controls at 4.74 seconds (range, 4.34-5.38 seconds; P = .96). Jumping performance was also similar, with a mean vertical leap for ACL-reconstructed players of 33.35 inches (range, 23-43 inches) and broad jump of 113.9 inches (range, 96-136 inches) compared with respective values for the controls of 33.22 inches (range, 23.5-43.5 inches; P = .84) and 113.9 inches (range, 92-134 inches; P = .99). Agility and quickness testing measures also did not show a statistically significantly difference, with ACL-reconstructed players performing the shuttle drill in 4.37 seconds (range, 4.02-4.84 seconds) and the 3-cone drill in 7.16 seconds (range, 6.45-8.14 seconds), respectively, compared with respective times for the controls of 4.37 seconds (range, 3.96-5.00 seconds; P = .91) and 7.18 seconds (range, 6.64-8.24 seconds; P = .75).

Conclusion:

This study suggests that after ACL reconstruction, high-caliber athletes can achieve equivalent levels of performance with no statistically significant differences compared with matched controls. This information is unique when advising high-level athletes on athletic performance after ACL reconstruction, suggesting that those who fully recover and return to play appear to have no decrement in athletic performance.
Numerical analysis of the ballistic behaviour of Kevlar® composite under impact of double-nosed stepped cylindrical projectiles
Authors: Rodríguez Millán Marcos , Moreno Carlos E , Marco Miguel , Santiuste Carlos , Miguélez Henar
Published: October 2015

This paper focuses on the numerical analysis of the ballistic performance of Kevlar®-29 under impact of different double-nosed stepped cylindrical projectiles. Numerical modelling based on finite element method was carried out in order to predict the failure mode of the target as well as the ballistic limit. A detailed analysis of the ballistic limit, failure mode and deformation of the targets due to impact of double-nosed projectiles was developed, discussed and compared with those involved in penetration of single-nosed flat and conical projectiles. Significant influence of the projectile geometry was demonstrated: the lowest ballistic limit was obtained with the conical–conical nose shape projectiles.
Property enhancement of aligned carbon nanotube/polyimide composite by strategic prestraining
Authors: Jiang Qian , Wu Liwei
Published: October 2015

Spray winding is a method that draws carbon nanotube sheets from carbon nanotube array, winds them onto rotating mandrel and sprays polymer matrix on each layer of carbon nanotube sheet in the meantime. It is proved to be an effective way to produce aligned carbon nanotubes reinforced polymer composite, in which most of the carbon nanotubes align along the length direction of composite. However, it is found that misalignment and waviness of carbon nanotubes hinder the performance of polymer-nanotube composites in authors’ previous study. In order to further improve the carbon nanotube orientation, we demonstrate a methodology employing spray winding followed by a prestraining strategy to enhance the carbon nanotube orientation in a CNT/polyimide composite. Multifunctional carbon nanotube/polyimide composites with high CNT volume fraction were developed with remarkable enhancement in mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. The tensile stress and Young’s modulus appreciated by 262% and 205.9%, respectively; upon subjecting the composites to a prestrain of 6%. Significant improvement in the electrical and thermal conductivities was also observed due to prestraining. We attribute the latter to the formation of effective phonon and electron transfer paths resulting from improved carbon nanotube orientation.
Physical preparation of alginate/chitosan polyelectrolyte complexes for biomedical applications
Authors: Alsharabasy Amir M , Moghannem Saad A , El-Mazny Waleed N
Published: October 2015

Polyelectrolyte complexes represent a special class of polymeric compounds consisting of stoichiometric equivalents of oppositely charged polyions interacting together spontaneously to yield a complex in different forms. The present study aimed at preparing coacervates of alginate and chitosan polymers ready for casting as wound dressing films. This was based on controlling the pH of solutions and the reactions speed through controlling the rate of mixing of the polymers solutions together without using any water-miscible solvents. Alginate was modified with radiation and oxidation, and the interactions of the resulting chains and chitosan chains were tested with FTIR spectroscopy and scanning of the resulting films with SEM. This work showed the ability to prepare a complex of highly connected polymeric chains for further biomedical applications. This complex in the form of hydrogel could enhance the proliferation of cells in vitro and the healing efficiency with accelerating the wound closure rate as evidenced through the histological observations.
Variability analysis of vibrational responses in a passenger car considering the uncertainties of elastomers
Authors: Kwon Jong-Hyun , Lee Dooho
Published: October 2015

Passenger cars have many elastomeric joints that are used to reduce the vibration transmission from the source to the cabin structure. In the design stage, the dynamic characteristics of the elastomeric joints are optimally determined in order to satisfy the design goals for interior noise and vibration. However, the material properties of the elastomeric joints have large variations due to production variability. In addition, operational conditions, e.g. environmental temperature, vary according to the locations of the car. As a result, the vibrational comfort of a passenger car exhibits large variations. In this paper, the amount of vibration fluctuation due to uncertain elastomeric joint parameters is estimated using a statistical approach. First, the dynamic characteristics of the elastomers are described using the fractional derivative model. The uncertainties of the fractional derivative model parameters of the elastomers are characterized using a statistical calibration approach based on specimen test data. Then, a finite element model for the elastomers and the passenger car structure are constructed in order to calculate the vibrational response. In order to estimate the variability of the vibrational response due to the uncertainties of the elastomers, uncertainty propagation analyses are conducted using the eigenvector dimension reduction (EDR) method. The operational conditions such as temperature are also included in the variability analysis. The performance of the EDR method is assessed through comparing the estimated response distribution with that of the Monte Carlo simulation (MCS) method in a simplified structure. The variability analysis results demonstrate that the vibrational response variation due to the uncertainties of the elastomers can be efficiently predicted using the proposed method. The proposed variability analysis procedure could be an effective tool in the design stage for quality control of passenger car comfort.
Experimental mode shape determination of a cantilevered hydrofoil under different flow conditions
Authors: De La Torre O , Escaler X , Egusquiza E , Farhat M
Published: October 2015

The first three mode shapes of a cantilevered NACA0009 hydrofoil were experimentally investigated in air and under different flow conditions in a cavitation tunnel. First and second bending modes and first torsion mode were determined in resonance conditions with the hydrofoil vibrating in air, in still water, in flowing water, or with leading edge sheet cavitation. The hydrofoil was excited with embedded piezoelectric ceramic patches, and the response was measured along the surface at selected positions by means of a laser Doppler vibrometer. The modes of vibration obtained from a cross correlation analysis of the signals were compared for the different conditions, and the most significant differences were identified. In particular, it was found that the mode shape deformation and the location of the nodal lines are dependent on the fluid conditions.
An Examination of Music Teacher Job Interview Questions
Authors: Juchniewicz Jay
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine which interview questions principals consider most important when interviewing prospective music teachers. Additionally, data were examined to determine any differences between school grade level, school setting, or years of experience as a principal in preferences for specific interview questions. Four-hundred five ( N = 405) principals from the state of North Carolina completed an online questionnaire asking each participant to rate 27 interview questions on how important they consider each question to be. Additionally, a free response section was created to allow respondents to list any additional interview questions they viewed as very important that were not listed. Results indicated “How will you connect with your students,” “Tell me what I’ll see happening in your classroom,” and “How would you make sure students are successful in music” were the top three rated interview questions, respectively. No significant differences were found for ratings of interview questions between school grade level, school setting, or years of experience as a principal.
Patient-Reported Outcomes and Return to Activity After Peroneus Brevis Repair
Authors: Steginsky Brian , Riley Aimee , Lucas Douglas E. , Philbin Terrence M. , Berlet Gregory C.
Published: October 2015

Background:

There is limited data on functional outcomes after primary repair of partial peroneal tendon tears. Previous reports have been limited by small cohorts, duration of follow-up, and often included both tenodesis and primary repair. The purpose of this study was to report the functional outcomes and return to activity in the largest cohort to date with partial peroneal tendon tears treated with primary repair.

Methods:

A chart review identified all patients who underwent primary repair of the peroneus brevis tendon from 2008 to 2012. Demographic data, magnetic resonance imaging findings, and postoperative complications were reviewed. Patients were asked to complete a follow-up questionnaire, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and Foot Function Index (FFI). There were 201 patients who underwent primary repair of the peroneus brevis tendon. The average age at time of operation was 44.3 years. Seventy-one patients returned the follow-up questionnaires with an average follow-up of 4.6 years. Fifty-two patients completed the FFI questionnaire preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results:

Fifty-nine patients (83.1%) reported a return to regular exercise and sports at final follow-up. At 1 year postoperatively, 76.5% of patients returned to the same preinjury activities, and 62.3% returned to the same level of preinjury activity. Furthermore, 85.9% of patients were satisfied with their outcome, and 91.4% of patients reported they would choose to undergo the same procedure again. The mean FAAM score was 85.2 at follow-up. The mean preoperative and postoperative FFI score was 41.1 and 12.2, respectively. There was a significant improvement in the FFI score of 28.9 after primary peroneus brevis tendon repair ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Primary repair of peroneus brevis tendon provided consistent improvement in functional outcomes in the majority of patients, as measured by a validated scoring system, the FFI. FAAM scores demonstrated good function compared to historical controls. The majority of patients were able to return to preinjury activity.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Taking Online Search Queries as an Indicator of the Public Agenda
Authors: Maurer Marcus , Holbach Thomas
Published: October 2015

Recently, several studies suggested that the amount of online search queries can be used as an indicator of the public agenda. Based on former research by the authors, this article discusses the role of public uncertainty as another factor influencing search queries. Therefore, the influence of media coverage on Wikipedia searches concerning two issues is compared: one issue with uncertainty (the Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli [EHEC] epidemic), and one without uncertainty (unemployment). Analyses show much stronger correlations in the case of EHEC, which suggests that online search behavior may especially be used as an indicator of the public agenda in case public uncertainty exists.
Adaptation of a Cancer Clinical Trials Education Program for African American and Latina/o Community Members
Authors: Pelto Debra J. , Sadler Georgia Robins , Njoku Ogo , Rodriguez Maria Carina , Villagra Cristina , Malcarne Vanessa L. , Riley Natasha E. , Behar Alma I. , Jandorf Lina
Published: October 2015

The pilot study reported in this article culturally and linguistically adapted an educational intervention to promote cancer clinical trials (CCTs) participation among Latinas/os and African Americans. The single-session slide presentation with embedded videos, originally developed through a campus–community partnership in Southern California, was chosen for adaptation because it was perceived to fit the CORRECT model of innovation (credible, observable, relevant, relatively advantageous, easy to understand, compatible, and testable) and because of the potential to customize any components not identified as core, allowing them to be revised for cultural and linguistic alignment in New York City. Most of the 143 community participants (76.2%) were female; most (54.6%) were older than 59 years. More than half (78.3%) preferred to speak English or were bilingual in English and Spanish. A large proportion (41.3%) had not completed high school. Knowledge and perceived benefits and barriers regarding CCT showed small, though statistically significant, increases. There were no statistically significant group differences for changes in mean knowledge, perceived benefits, or perceived barriers when examined by ethnicity, education level, language, or other included sociodemographic variables. However, a small, but statistically significant difference in perceived barriers was observed when examined by country of origin, with the foreign born score worsening 0.08 points ( SD = 0.47, p = .007) on the 5-point Likert-type scale administered posteducation compared to preeducation. Participants’ open-ended comments demonstrated the acceptability of the topic and intervention. This adaptation resulted in an intervention with the potential to educate African American and Latina/o general community members in a new geographic region about the purpose, methods, and benefits of CCTs.
Losing Manhood Like a Man
Authors: Cragun Ryan T. , Sumerau J.E.
Published: October 2015

In this article, we examine the first author’s experiences before, during, and after a vasectomy to uncover gaps in existing masculinities scholarship. Utilizing collaborative autoethnographic methods, we document some ways the first author’s experience reveals (1) missing pieces in existing research into masculinities and vasectomies, (2) unanswered questions about manhood and reproductive justice, and (3) limitations in contemporary conceptualizations of hegemonic and compensatory manhood acts. In conclusion, we suggest some ways to extend masculinities scholarship by critically examining situational variations in what it means to be a man as well as some ways vasectomy experiences may influence these ideals.
Finding Food Deserts
Authors: Jaskiewicz Lara , Block Daniel , Chavez Noel
Published: October 2015

Public health research has increasingly focused on how access to resources affects health behaviors. Mapping environmental factors, such as distance to a supermarket, can identify intervention points toward improving food access in low-income and minority communities. However, the existing literature provides little guidance on choosing the most appropriate measures of spatial access. This study compared the results of different measures of spatial access to large food stores and the locations of high and low access identified by each. The data set included U.S. Census population data and the locations of large food stores in the six-county area around Chicago, Illinois. Six measures of spatial access were calculated at the census block group level and the results compared. The analysis found that there was little agreement in the identified locations of high or low access between measures. This study illustrates the importance of considering the access measure used when conducting research, interpreting results, or comparing studies. Future research should explore the correlation of different measures with health behaviors and health outcomes.