bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building Cost Function 3D Benchmarks to Improve the Economic Statistical Design of X¯ Control Charts
Authors: Caballero-Morales Santiago-Omar
Published: November 2014

Shewhart or control charts are important Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques
used for prompt detection of failures in a manufacturing process and minimization of production costs which are modelled with nonlinear functions (cost functions). Heuristic methods have been used to find the chart’s parameters integrated within the cost function that best
comply with economic and statistical restrictions. However heuristic estimation is highly
dependent on the size of the search space, the set of initial solutions, and the exploration
operators. In this paper the 3D analysis of the cost function is presented to more accurately
identify the search space associated with each parameter of control charts and to improve estimation. The parameters estimated with this approach were more accurate than those
estimated with Hooke and Jeeves (HJ) and Genetic Algorithms (GAs) under different failure
distributions. The results presented in this work can be used as a benchmark to evaluate
and improve the performance of other heuristic methods.
Ureteral Stenting after Uncomplicated Ureteroscopy for Distal Ureteral Stones: A Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: El Harrech Y. , Abakka N. , El Anzaoui J. , Ghoundale O. , Touiti D.
Published: November 2014

Objectives. We compared outcome and complications after uncomplicated ureteroscopic treatment of distal ureteral calculi with or without the use of ureteral stents.Materials and Methods. 117 patients, prospectively divided into three groups to receive a double j stent (group 1, 42 patients), ureteral stent (group 2, 37 patients), or no stent (group 3, 38 patients), underwent ureteroscopic treatment of distal ureteral calculi. Stone characteristics, operative time, postoperative pain, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), analgesia need, rehospitalization, stone-free rate, and late postoperative complications were all studied.Results. There were no significant differences in preoperative data. There was no significant difference between the three groups regarding hematuria, fever, flank pain, urinary tract infection, and rehospitalisation. At 48 hours and 1 week, frequency/urgency and dysuria were significantly less in the nonstented group. When comparing group 1 and group 3, patients with double j stents had statistically significantly more bladder pain (P=0.003), frequency/urgency (P=0.002), dysuria (P=0.001), and need of analgesics (P=0.001). All patients who underwent imaging postoperatively were without evidence of obstruction or ureteral stricture.Conclusions. Uncomplicated ureteroscopy for distal ureteral calculi without intraoperative ureteral dilation can safely be performed without placement of a ureteral stent.
Theoretical Modeling of Rock Breakage by Hydraulic and Mechanical Tool
Authors: Jiang Hongxiang , Du Changlong , Liu Songyong , Wang Liping
Published: November 2014

Rock breakage by coupled mechanical and hydraulic action has been developed over the past several decades, but theoretical study on rock fragmentation by mechanical tool with water pressure assistance was still lacking. The theoretical model of rock breakage by mechanical tool was developed based on the rock fracture mechanics and the solution of Boussinesq’s problem, and it could explain the process of rock fragmentation as well as predicating the peak reacting force. The theoretical model of rock breakage by coupled mechanical and hydraulic action was developed according to the superposition principle of intensity factors at the crack tip, and the reacting force of mechanical tool assisted by hydraulic action could be reduced obviously if the crack with a critical length could be produced by mechanical or hydraulic impact. The experimental results indicated that the peak reacting force could be reduced about 15% assisted by medium water pressure, and quick reduction of reacting force after peak value decreased the specific energy consumption of rock fragmentation by mechanical tool. The crack formation by mechanical or hydraulic impact was the prerequisite to improvement of the ability of combined breakage.
Effect of Low Cobalt Loading on TiO2Nanotube Arrays for Water-Splitting
Authors: Pozio Alfonso
Published: November 2014

This work is intended to define a new possible methodology for the TiO2doping through the use of an electrochemical deposition of cobalt directly on the titanium nanotubes obtained by a previous galvanostatic anodization treatment in an ethylene glycol solution. This method does not seem to cause any influence on the nanotube structure, showing final products with news and interesting features with respect to the unmodified sample. Together with an unmodified photoconversion efficiency under UV light, the cobalt doped specimen reports an increase of the electrocatalytic efficiency for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER).
Chaos Based Joint Compression and Encryption Framework for End-to-End Communication Systems
Authors: Goel Nidhi , Raman Balasubramanian , Gupta Indra
Published: November 2014

Augmentation in communication and coding technology has made encryption an integral part of secure multimedia communication systems. Security solution for end-to-end image transmission requires content adaptation at intermediate nodes, which consumes significant resources to decrypt, process, and reencrypt the secured data. To save the computational resources, this paper proposes a network-friendly encryption technique, which can be implemented in transparency to content adaptation techniques. The proposed encryption technique maintains the compression efficiency of underlying entropy coder, and enables the processing of encrypted data. Thorough analysis of the technique, as regards various standard evaluation parameters and attack scenarios, demonstrates its ability to withstand known-plaintext, ciphertext-only, and approximation attacks. This justifies its implementation for secure image transmission for end-to-end communication systems.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Hydrogen in α-Zirconium
Authors: Siripurapu Ravi Kiran , Szpunar Barbara , Szpunar Jerzy A.
Published: November 2014

Molecular dynamics approach is used to simulate hydrogen (H) diffusion in zirconium. Zirconium alloys are used in fuel channels of many nuclear reactors. Previously developed embedded atom method (EAM) and modified embedded atom method (MEAM) are tested and a good agreement with experimental data for lattice parameters, cohesive energy, and mechanical properties is obtained. Both EAM and MEAM are used to calculate hydrogen diffusion in zirconium. At higher temperatures and in the presence of hydrogen, MEAM calculation predicts an unstable zirconium structure and low diffusion coefficients. Mean square displacement (MSD) of hydrogen in bulk zirconium is calculated at a temperature range of 500–1200 K with diffusion coefficient at 500 K equals 1.92 * 10−7 cm2/sec and at 1200 K has a value 1.47 * 10−4 cm2/sec. Activation energy of hydrogen diffusion calculated using Arrhenius plot was found to be 11.3 kcal/mol which is in agreement with published experimental results. Hydrogen diffusion is the highest along basal planes of hexagonal close packed zirconium.
Cytotoxicity Potentials of Eleven Bangladeshi Medicinal Plants
Authors: Khatun Amina , Rahman Mahmudur , Haque Tania , Rahman Md. Mahfizur , Akter Mahfuja , Akter Subarna , Jhumur Afrin
Published: November 2014

Various forms of cancer are rising all over the world, requiring newer therapy. The quest of anticancer drugs both from natural and synthetic sources is the demand of time. In this study, fourteen extracts of different parts of eleven Bangladeshi medicinal plants which have been traditionally used for the treatment of different types of carcinoma, tumor, leprosy, and diseases associated with cancer were evaluated for their cytotoxicity for the first time. Extraction was conceded using methanol. Phytochemical groups like reducing sugars, tannins, saponins, steroids, gums, flavonoids, and alkaloids were tested using standard chromogenic reagents. Plants were evaluated for cytotoxicity by brine shrimp lethality bioassay usingArtemia salinacomparing with standard anticancer drug vincristine sulphate. All the extracts showed potent to moderate cytotoxicity ranging from LC502 to 115 µg/mL. The highest toxicity was shown byHygrophila spinosaseeds (LC50=2.93 µg/mL) and the lowest byLitsea glutinosaleaves (LC50=114.71 µg/mL) in comparison with standard vincristine sulphate (LC50=2.04 µg/mL). Among the plants, the plants traditionally used in different cancer and microbial treatments showed highest cytotoxicity. The results support their ethnomedicinal uses and require advanced investigation to elucidate responsible compounds as well as their mode of action.
Joint Estimation of Time-Frequency Signature and DOA Based on STFD for Multicomponent Chirp Signals
Authors: Zhao Ziyue , Liu Congfeng
Published: November 2014

In the study of the joint estimation of time-frequency signature and direction of arrival (DOA) for multicomponent chirp signals, an estimation method based on spatial time-frequency distributions (STFDs) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, array signal model for multicomponent chirp signals is presented and then array processing is applied in time-frequency analysis to mitigate cross-terms. According to the results of the array processing, Hough transform is performed and the estimation of time-frequency signature is obtained. Subsequently, subspace method for DOA estimation based on STFD matrix is achieved. Simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed method.
Expansion of Natural Killer Cells in Peripheral Blood in a Japanese Elderly with Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1-Related Skin Lesions
Authors: Imashuku Shinsaku , Kudo Naoko , Kubo Kagekatsu , Ohshima Kouichi
Published: November 2014

Natural killer (NK) cells were proposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1- (HTLV-1-) associated neurologic disease. Our patient was a 77-year-old Japanese man, who had been treated for infective dermatitis associated with HTLV-1 for nearly 10 years. When referred to us, he had facial eczema/edema as well as extensive dermatitis at the neck/upper chest and nuchal area/upper back regions. Dermal lesions had CD3+CD4+ cells, but no NK cells. Flow cytometry of his peripheral blood showed a phenotype of CD2+ (97%), CD3+ (17%), CD4+ (12%), CD7+ (94%), CD8+ (6%), CD11c+ (70%), CD16+ (82%), CD19+ (0%), CD20+ (0%), CD56+ (67%), HLA-DR+ (68%), and NKp46+ (36%). Absolute numbers of CD56+NK cells in the peripheral blood were in a range of 986/μL–1,270/μL. The expanded NK cells in the peripheral blood are considered to be reactive, to maintain the confinement of the HTLV-1-positive CD4+ cells in the skin, and to prevent the progression of the disease.
Synthesis and Thermal Degradation Studies of Melamine Formaldehyde Resins
Authors: Ullah Sami , Bustam M. A. , Nadeem M. , Naz M. Y. , Tan W. L. , Shariff A. M.
Published: November 2014

Melamine formaldehyde (MF) resins have been synthesized at different reaction temperature and pH values. Different molar ratios of melamine and formaldehyde were used to synthesize the corresponding resins. The prepared resin samples were characterized by using molecular weight determination viscometry and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The maximum percentage of solid content (69.7%) was obtained at pH 8.5 and 75°C temperature. The molecular weight of MF resin was increased with an increase of melamine monomer concentration. The highest residual weight 14.125 wt.% was obtained with sample 10.
Cardiac Failure after Liver Transplantation Requiring a Biventricular Assist Device
Authors: Jermyn Rita , Soe Eiei , D’Alessandro David , Shin Julia , Jakobleff William , Schwartz Daniel , Kinkhabwala Milan , Gaglio Paul J.
Published: November 2014

Increased hepatic iron load in extrahepatic organs of cirrhotic patients with and without hereditary hemochromatosis portends a poorer long term prognosis after liver transplant. Hepatic as well as nonhepatic iron overload is associated with increased infectious and postoperative complications, including cardiac dysfunction. In this case report, we describe a cirrhotic patient with alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency and nonhereditary hemochromatosis (non-HFE) that developed cardiogenic shock requiring mechanical circulatory support for twenty days after liver transplant. Upon further investigation, she was found to have significant iron deposition in both the liver and heart biopsies. Her heart regained complete and sustained recovery following ten days of mechanical biventricular support. This case highlights the importance of preoperatively recognizing extrahepatic iron deposition in patients referred for liver transplantation irrespective of etiology of liver disease as this may prevent postoperative complications.
Retained Intra-Abdominal Surgical Clamp Complicating Emergency Laparotomy: Incidental Finding on Hysterosalpingogram for Evaluation of Tubal Infertility
Authors: Adesiyun Adebiyi Gbadebo , Ameh Nkeiruka , Umar-Sullayman Hajaratu , Avidime Solomon , Aliyu Rabia’t
Published: November 2014

The finding of intraperitoneal foreign body complicating surgical intervention broadly remains as an issue of safety in the operative room, a source of emotive concern for the patient, and an upsetting but equally embarrassing situation to the surgeon and the team. However, in the media world, it is a source of sumptuous and captivating headline on the newspaper and to the legal profession, an attractive case to prosecute. A middle age teacher presented with secondary infertility. She had emergency laparotomy fifteen years ago for ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy in a private hospital and postoperative period was uneventful. Amongst other investigations to find out the cause of infertility, she had hysterosalpingography and a radio-opaque clamp was visualized on the films. She was counselled and had laparotomy. A pair of surgical Kocher clamps was retrieved buried in the mesentery.
Unaffected Arm Muscle Hypercatabolism in Dysphagic Subacute Stroke Patients: The Effects of Essential Amino Acid Supplementation
Authors: Aquilani Roberto , Boselli Mirella , D’Antona Giuseppe , Baiardi Paola , Boschi Federica , Viglio Simona , Iadarola Paolo , Pasini Evasio , Barbieri Annalisa , Dossena Maurizia , Bongiorno Andria Innocenza , Verri Manuela
Published: November 2014

Alterations in muscle protein turnover of the unaffected side of stroke patients could contribute to physical disability. We investigated whether hypercatabolic activity occurred in unaffected arm muscle and whether supplemented essential amino acids (EAAs) could limit muscle hypercatabolism (MH). Thirty-eight dysphagic subacute stroke subjects (<3 months after acute event) (29 males + 9 females; 69.7 ± 11.4 yrs) were enrolled and randomized to receive 8 g/day EAAs (n= 19; EAA group) or isocaloric placebo (maltodextrin;n= 19, Plac group). Before randomization, all patients had their arterial (A) and venous (V) amino acids measured and muscle (A − V) differences calculated in the unaffected arm. Eight matched and healthy subjects served as controls. When compared to healthy controls, the entire stroke population showed significant muscle release (= negative value A − V) of the amino acid phenylalanine (phenyl-) indicating a prevalence of MH. Moreover, randomized EAA and Plac groups had similar rates of MH. After 38 days from the start of the protocol, the EAA group but not the Plac group had MH converted to balanced protein turnover or anabolic activity. We concluded that muscle protein metabolism of the unaffected arm of dysphagic subacute stroke individuals could be characterized by MH which can be corrected by supplemented EAAs.
Hahn Sequence Space of Modals
Authors: Balasubramanian T. , Zion Chella Ruth S.
Published: November 2014

The history of modal intervals goes back to the very first publications on the topic of interval calculus.
The modal interval analysis is used in Computer graphics and Computer Aided Design (CAD), namely,
the computation of narrow bounds on Bezier and B-Spline curves.
Since modal intervals are used in many fields, we introduce a new sequence space h(gI)
called the Hahn sequence space of modal intervals. We have given some new definitions and theorems. Some inclusion relation and some topological properties
of this space are investigated. Also dual spaces of this space are computed.
Experiences from a Community Based Substance Use Treatment Centre in an Urban Resettlement Colony in India
Authors: Balhara Yatan Pal Singh , Ranjan Rajeev , Dhawan Anju , Yadav Deepak
Published: November 2014

Background. There are limited community based treatment services for drug dependence in India. Rural areas and urban resettlement colonies are in particular deficient in such services.Aims. The current study aimed at preliminary assessment of substance use disorder management services at a community based substance use treatment clinic in an urban resettlement colony.Methods. The study was carried out at community based substance use treatment centre in a resettlement colony in India. The records of the centre were chart reviewed.Results. A total of 754 patients were registered at the clinic during the study period. Heroin was the primary drug of abuse for 63% of the patients. The mean duration of follow-up for the patients with opioid and alcohol dependence was 13.47 (SD±10.37; range 0–39) months. A total of 220 patients of opioid dependence were prescribed substation or abstinence directed therapy. Buprenorphine (87), slow release oral morphine (SROM) (16), and dextropropoxyphene (98) were used for opioid substitution.Conclusion. It is possible to deliver substance use disorder treatment services in community setting. There is a need to develop area specific community based treatment services for substance abuse in socially disadvantaged populations such as urban resettlement colonies.
Assessment of Patients with a DePuy ASR Metal-on-Metal Hip Replacement: Results of Applying the Guidelines of the Spanish Society of Hip Surgery in a Tertiary Referral Hospital
Authors: Fernández-Valencia Jenaro , Gallart Xavier , Bori Guillem , Ramiro Sebastián Garcia , Combalía Andrés , Riba Josep
Published: November 2014

The prognosis associated with the DePuy ASR hip cup is poor and varies according to the series. This implant was withdrawn from use in 2010 and all patients needed to be assessed. We present the results of the assessment of our patients treated with this device, according to the Spanish Society of Hip Surgery (SECCA) algorithm published in 2011. This retrospective study evaluates 83 consecutive ASR cups, followed up at a mean of 2.9 years. Serum levels of chromium and cobalt, as well as the acetabular abduction angle, were determined in order to assess their possible correlation with failure, defined as the need for revision surgery. The mean Harris Hip Score was 83.2 (range 42–97). Eight arthroplasties (13.3%) required revision due to persistent pain and/or elevated serum levels of chromium/cobalt. All the cups had a correct abduction angle, and there was no correlation between elevated serum levels of metal ions and implant failure. Since two previous ASR implants were exchanged previously to the recall, the revision rate for ASR cups in our centre is 18.2% at 2.9 years.
Analysis of Metal Contents in Portland Type V and MTA-Based Cements
Authors: Dorileo Maura Cristiane Gonçales Orçati , Bandeca Matheus Coelho , Pedro Fábio Luis Miranda , Volpato Luiz Evaristo Ricci , Guedes Orlando Aguirre , Villa Ricardo Dalla , Tonetto Mateus Rodrigues , Borges Alvaro Henrique
Published: November 2014

The aim of this study was to determine, by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), the concentration levels of 11 metals in Type V gray and structural white PC, ProRoot MTA, and MTA Bio. Samples, containing one gram of each tested cement, were prepared and transferred to a 100 mL Teflon tube with a mixture of 7.0 mL of nitric acid and 21 mL of hydrochloric acid. After the reaction, the mixture was filtered and then volumed to 50 mL of distilled water. For each metal, specific patterns were determined from universal standards. Arsenic quantification was performed by hydride generator. The analysis was performed five times and the data were statistically analyzed at 5% level of significance. Only the cadmium presented concentration levels of values lower than the quantification limit of the device. The AAS analysis showed increased levels of calcium, nickel, and zinc in structural white PC. Type V PC presented the greatest concentration levels of arsenic, chromium, copper, iron, lead, and manganese(P<0.05). Bismuth was found in all cements, and the lowest concentration levels were observed in Portland cements, while the highest were observed in ProRoot MTA. Both PC and MTA-based cements showed evidence of metals inclusion.
Correlations of Vascular Architecture and Angiogenesis with Pituitary Adenoma Histotype
Authors: Takano Shingo , Akutsu Hiroyoshi , Hara Takuma , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Matsumura Akira
Published: November 2014

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent angiogenic factor in solid tumors. However, its role in angiogenesis in pituitary adenoma is controversial. Angiogenesis in solid tumors including pituitary adenoma is commonly evaluated by microvascular density (MVD). Here, we evaluated MVD and the role of VEGF in vascular architecture in 51 pituitary adenomas (24 nonfunctioning, 13 prolactin-secreting, 10 growth hormone-secreting, 3 adrenocorticotropic hormone-secreting, and 1 thyroid-stimulating hormone-secreting). Paraffin sections were stained with CD34 and VEGF. MVD and vascular architecture parameters (vessel area, diameter, perimeter, and roundness) were evaluated in CD34-stained sections. Immunohistochemistry showed 27/51 tumors (53%) were VEGF-positive. There were no significant differences in MVD, any vascular parameter, or adenoma volume between VEGF-positive and VEGF-negative tumors. VEGF mRNA expression was significantly higher in VEGF-positive tumors. There were no significant correlations between VEGF mRNA expression and MVD or vascular parameters. However, vessel diameter and perimeter were significantly larger in prolactin-secreting than nonfunctioning and growth hormone-secreting macroadenomas. The difference in vessel diameter was observed among both VEGF-positive and all adenomas (micro- and macroadenoma). Thus, VEGF may have limited roles in the development of vascular architecture and tumor angiogenesis in pituitary adenomas, but the differences in vessel architecture by histotype (i.e., larger vessel diameter and perimeter in prolactin-secreting adenomas) suggest the hormonal regulation of vessel architecture rather than angiogenesis
Sexual Transmission of Oral Human Papillomavirus Infection among Men
Authors: Dahlstrom Kristina R. , Burchell Ann N. , Ramanakumar Agnihotram V. , Rodrigues Allita , Tellier Pierre-Paul , Hanley James , Coutlée François , Franco Eduardo L.
Published: November 2014

We estimated the prevalence of oral human papillomavirus (HPV) and assessed risk factors among young heterosexual men participating in the HPV Infection and Transmission among Couples through Heterosexual Activity (HITCH) study. Oral and genital HPV samples were collected from 222 men and their female partners who were participating in the HITCH study, a longitudinal cohort on HPV transmission among heterosexual couples. Demographic and behavioral data were collected through self-administered computer questionnaires and biologic samples were tested with the Linear Array for HPV. Outcome measures were overall and type-specific prevalence of oral HPV. The prevalence of oral HPV among men was 7.2% and was higher among men who were ever smokers (12.2%), in nonmonogamous relationships (17.9%), or had a partner with oral (28.6%) and/or genital (11.5%) HPV infection. Moreover, prevalence increased with frequency of oral sex among men whose partner who had a genital infection with the same HPV type. Our results provide further evidence that oral HPV may be transmitted through either oral–oral or oral–genital routes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2959–64. ©2014 AACR.
Patients’ Preferences in Anticoagulant Therapy
Authors: Najafzadeh Mehdi , Gagne Joshua J. , Choudhry Niteesh K. , Polinski Jennifer M. , Avorn Jerry , Schneeweiss Sebastian S.
Published: November 2014

Background—

With proliferating treatment options for anticoagulant therapy, physicians and patients must choose among them based on their benefits and risks. Using a Discrete Choice Experiment, we elicited patients’ relative preferences for specific benefits and risks of anticoagulant therapy.

Methods and Results—

We selected a sample of US patients with cardiovascular disease from an online panel and elicited their preferences for benefits and risks of anticoagulant therapy: nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, cardiovascular death, minor bleeding, major bleeding, bleeding death, and need for monitoring. These attributes were used to design scenarios describing hypothetical treatments that were labeled as new drug, old drug, or no drug. Latent class analysis was used to identify groups of patients with similar preferences. A total of 341 patients completed all Discrete Choice Experiment questions. On average, patients valued a 1% increased risk of a fatal bleeding event the same as a 2% increase in nonfatal myocardial infarction, a 3% increase in nonfatal stroke, a 3% increase in cardiovascular death, a 6% increase in major bleeding, and a 16% increase in minor bleeding. The odds of choosing no drug or old drug versus new drug were 0.72 (95% confidence interval, 0.61–0.84) and 0.86 (95% confidence interval, 0.81–0.93), respectively. Previous stroke or myocardial infarction was associated with membership in the class with larger negative preferences for these outcomes.

Conclusions—

Patients’ preferences for various outcomes of anticoagulant therapy vary and depend on their previous experiences with myocardial infarction or stroke. Incorporating these preferences into benefit risk calculation and treatment decisions can enhance patient-centered care.
We is Plural
Authors: van Andel Nienke , Hoondert Martin J.M. , Barnard Marcel
Published: November 2014

Even before they started the editorial board of the new Dutch hymnal was blamed for being too elitist. The fact that they had been selected on the basis of their expertise made them vulnerable for such criticism. Subsequently the position of the editors has been a point of continuous reflection. In this contribution, we will argue that this image of editors as dissociated from users of the hymn book is only one among several available identity repertoires. In order to answer the question which ‘identities-in-relation-to-users’ do the editors construct in the meetings of the board and how do they value these identities?, we will use a broad definition of identity and focus on positions performed in social interaction. The interaction in question concerns seven selected meetings of the editorial board, all of which were audio-taped and transcribed. Looking closely at the identities that were constructed during those meetings, we distinguish six positions, ranging from a great to no distance between editors and users: editors, professionals, experienced, vanguard, pleasers and equals.
Comparing cotton fiber quality from conventional and round module harvesting methods
Authors: van der Sluijs Marinus HJ , Long Robert L , Bange Michael P
Published: November 2014

The introduction of the John Deere 7760 spindle harvester to the Australian cotton industry in 2008, with on board module building capacity producing round modules, has led to the rapid uptake of this technology by growers due to a reduction in labor requirements. There have, however, been anecdotal reports from cotton classing facilities and growers that the quality of cotton harvested by the John Deere 7760 is different and more variable compared to cotton harvested by the conventional spindle basket harvesting and separate module building method. The aim of this research was to compare the average fiber quality and the variability of quality between bales of cotton produced by these two harvesting methods. Four fields located in the southern and central cotton growing areas of Australia were planted with two popular upland varieties. Alternate groups of rows across each field were harvested using either the round module or conventional basket harvesting method, with harvested seed cotton ginned at the same gin. Fiber samples were assessed for quality attributes typically used to class and value cotton in Australia. There was no significant difference of average results between the two harvest methods for High Volume Instrument (HVI) determined upper half mean length and bundle strength. However, HVI micronaire was marginally yet significantly lower and HVI reflectance higher for fiber from the round module system, which was attributed to the round harvesters being able to harvest more fiber (including immature fiber from the top of plants) and less trash. The small difference in reflectance, however, did not translate into a practical difference, with there being no significant difference measured between the two harvesting systems for visually determined color and leaf grade. The normalized variability (% coefficient of variation) of fiber quality between bales was greater for the round module system, which was attributed to less blending during the sequential ginning of round modules in contrast to the vertical building of equivalent multiple (round module) layers of seed cotton in larger conventional modules that undergo more blending when fed longitudinally into the gin. While the round modules in this research were harvested and ginned according to industry standards and in sequence, less than favorable in-field conditions and out-of-sequence ginning would more than likely compound the variation in fiber quality between bales. The impact of these variables on fiber quality would have significant practical implications, which will require further investigation.
The scope of military privatisation: Military role conceptions and contractor support in the United States and the United Kingdom
Authors: Cusumano Eugenio
Published: November 2014

Although the privatisation of military support is increasingly widespread, advanced military organisations have not relied on Private Military and Security Companies (PMSCs) to the same degree. The existing scholarship on PMSCs cannot explain why countries sharing similar material incentives and similar market and political ideologies like the United States and the United Kingdom have not outsourced the same operational tasks. This article contends that introducing military role conceptions as a factor enabling or inhibiting the outsourcing of certain functions provides important insights into the scope of military privatisation, explaining why the US military has systematically privatised armed security and foreign military training, while the UK military has not
Perceptions of Mixed-Race
Authors: Wright Barlow , Olyedemi Michael , Gaines Stanley O.
Published: November 2014

The psychology of race is in its infancy, particularly in the United Kingdom and especially regarding mixed-race. Most use untimed explicit indexes and qualitative/self-report measures. Here, we used not only explicit responses (participants’ choice of response categories) but also implicit data (participants’ response times, RT). In a Stroop task, 92 Black, White, and mixed-race participants classified photographs of mixed-race persons. Photos were accompanied by a word, such as Black or White. Participants ignored the word, simply deciding whether to categorize photos as White or Black. Averaged across three different instructional sets, White participants categorized mixed-race slightly to the White side of the center point, with Black participants doing the converse. Intriguingly, mixed-race participants placed mixed-race photos further toward Black than did the Black group. But for RT, they now indicated midway between White and Black participants. We conclude that at the conscious (key-press) level, mixed-race persons see being mixed-race as Black, but at the unconscious (RT) level, their perception is a perfect balance between Black and White. Findings are discussed in terms of two recent theories of racial identity.
Expert Witness Testimony Guidelines
Authors: Svider Peter F. , Eloy Jean Anderson , Baredes Soly , Setzen Michael , Folbe Adam J.
Published: November 2014

Expert witnesses play an invaluable, if controversial, role by deciphering medical events for juries in cases of alleged negligence. We review expert witness guidelines among major surgical societies and identify gaps within these standards, as our hope is that this spurs discussion addressing areas for improvement. Of 8 surgical societies with accessible guidelines, none included specific compensation guidelines or limits, detailed reporting mechanisms regarding unethical behavior by legal professionals, or addressed the appropriateness of testifying frequently and exclusively for one side. Several processes possibly deterring grossly inaccurate testimony have been adopted by other surgical societies and should potentially be addressed by the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery. These include offering an expert witness testimony certification path, strengthening the formalized grievance process, and encouraging members to sign an affirmation statement.
Replication study of previous migraine genome-wide association study findings in a Spanish sample of migraine with aura
Authors: Sintas Cèlia , Fernández-Morales Jèssica , Vila-Pueyo Marta , Narberhaus Bernat , Arenas Concepció , Pozo-Rosich Patricia , Macaya Alfons , Cormand Bru
Published: November 2014

Background

Migraine is a common disabling condition that affects approximately 15% of the population. Several genome-wide association studies have attempted to identify susceptibility variants involved in migraine, reporting several candidate loci for the disorder.

Methods

In order to replicate findings from previous genome-wide association studies, a case–control association study was performed. Twelve single nucleotide polymorphisms were genotyped in a Spanish sample of 512 migraine with aura patients and 535 migraine-free controls.

Results

Nominal associations were found for single nucleotide polymorphisms rs2651899 (within the PRDM16 gene), rs10166942 (near TRPM8), rs12134493 (close to TSPAN2) and rs10504861 (near MMP16) in our migraine with aura sample.

Conclusions

Our study provides suggestive replication, in a Spanish migraine with aura sample, of four genome-wide association study findings previously reported in common migraine. However, larger sample sets should be explored to confirm our results.
Prolonged Remission in Neuromyelitis Optica Following Cessation of Rituximab Treatment
Authors: Weinfurtner Kelley , Graves Jennifer , Ness Jayne , Krupp Lauren , Milazzo Maria , Waubant Emmanuelle
Published: November 2014

Neuromyelitis optica is an autoimmune disease characterized by acute episodes of transverse myelitis and optic neuritis. Several small, open-label studies suggest rituximab, a monoclonal antibody against CD20, prevents relapses in neuromyelitis optica; however, there is little consensus on timing or duration of treatment. Here we report four patients with severe relapsing neuromyelitis optica who were stabilized on rituximab and, after discontinuing treatment, continued to experience prolonged remission of their disease. Remission ranged from 4.5 to 10.5 years total, including 3 to 9 years off all therapies. The patients had sustained clinical responses despite normal B-lymphocyte levels and, in at least 2 patients, continued seropositivity for aquaporin-4 antibodies. These cases suggest that rituximab may induce prolonged remission in certain neuromyelitis optica patients, and they highlight the need for further elucidation of rituximab’s mechanism in neuromyelitis optica.
Composition-structure-property relationships for non-classical ionomer cements formulated with zinc-boron germanium-based glasses
Authors: Zhang Xiaofang , Werner-Zwanziger Ulrike , Boyd Daniel
Published: November 2014

Non-classical ionomer glasses like those based on zinc-boron-germanium glasses are of special interest in a variety of medical applications owning to their unique combination of properties and potential therapeutic efficacy. These features may be of particular benefit with respect to the utilization of glass ionomer cements for minimally invasive dental applications such as the atruamatic restorative treatment, but also for expanded clinical applications in orthopedics and oral-maxillofacial surgery. A unique system of zinc-boron-germanium-based glasses (10 compositions in total) has been designed using a Design of Mixtures methodology. In the first instance, ionomer glasses were examined via differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffraction, and 11B MAS NMR spectroscopy to establish fundamental composition – structure-property relationships for the unique system. Secondly, cements were synthesized based on each glass and handling characteristics (working time, Wt, and setting time, St) and compression strength were quantified to facilitate the development of both experimental and mathematical composition-structure-property relationships for the new ionomer cements. The novel glass ionomer cements were found to provide Wt, St, and compression strength in the range of 48–132 s, 206–602 s, and 16–36 MPa, respectively, depending on the ZnO/GeO2 mol fraction of the glass phase. A lower ZnO mol fraction in the glass phase provides higher glass transition temperature, higher N4 rate, and in combination with careful modulation of GeO2 mol fraction in the glass phase provides a unique approach to extending the Wt and St of glass ionomer cement without compromising (in fact enhancing) compression strength. The data presented in this work provide valuable information for the formulation of alternative glass ionomer cements for applications within and beyond the dental clinic, especially where conventional approaches to modulating working time and strength exhibit co-dependencies (i.e. the enhancement of one property comes at the expense of the other) and therefore limit development strategies.
Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes simulations of compressible mixing layers of similar and dissimilar gases: Performance of k–ɛ turbulence model
Authors: Javed Afroz , Rajan NKS , Chakraborty Debasis
Published: November 2014

The issue of growth rate reduction of high speed mixing layer with convective Mach number is examined for similar and dissimilar gases using Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) methodology with k–ɛ turbulence model. It is observed that the growth rate predicted using RANS simulations closely matches with that predicted using model free simulations. Velocity profiles do not depend on the modelled value of Prt and Sct; while the temperature and species mass fraction distributions depend heavily on them. Although basic k–ɛ turbulence model could not capture the reduced growth rate for the mixing layer formed between similar gases, it predicts very well the reduced growth rate for the mixing layer for the dissimilar gases. It appears that density ratio changes caused by temperature changes for the dissimilar gases have profound effect on the growth rate reduction.
Altered glycosylation of complexed native IgG molecules is associated with disease activity of systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Sjöwall C , Zapf J , von Löhneysen S , Magorivska I , Biermann M , Janko C , Winkler S , Bilyy R , Schett G , Herrmann M , Muñoz L E
Published: November 2014

In addition to the redundancy of the receptors for the Fc portion of immunoglobulins, glycans result in potential ligands for a plethora of lectin receptors found in immune effector cells. Here we analysed the exposure of glycans containing fucosyl residues and the fucosylated tri-mannose N-type core by complexed native IgG in longitudinal serum samples of well-characterized patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Consecutive serum samples of a cohort of 15 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus during periods of increased disease activity and remission were analysed. All patients fulfilled the 1982 American College of Rheumatology classification criteria. Sera of 15 sex- and age-matched normal healthy blood donors served as controls. The levels and type of glycosylation of complexed random IgG was measured with lectin enzyme-immunosorbent assays. After specifically gathering IgG complexes from sera, biotinylated lectins Aleuria aurantia lectin and Lens culinaris agglutinin were employed to detect IgG-associated fucosyl residues and the fucosylated tri-mannose N-glycan core, respectively. In sandwich-ELISAs, IgG-associated IgM, IgA, C1q, C3c and C-reactive protein (CRP) were detected as candidates for IgG immune complex constituents. We studied associations of the glycan of complexed IgG and disease activity according to the physician’s global assessment of disease activity and the systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index 2000 documented at the moment of blood taking. Our results showed significantly higher levels of Aleuria aurantia lectin and Lens culinaris agglutinin binding sites exposed on IgG complexes of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus than on those of normal healthy blood donors. Disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus correlated with higher exposure of Aleuria aurantia lectin-reactive fucosyl residues by immobilized IgG complexes. Top levels of Aleuria aurantia lectin-reactivity were found in samples taken during the highest activity of systemic lupus erythematosus. Our results show that native circulating IgG complexes from active systemic lupus erythematosus patients expose fucosyl residues and their glycan core is accessible to soluble lectins. Two putative mechanisms may contribute to the increased exposure of these glycans: (1) the canonical N-glycosylation site of the IgG-CH2 domain; (2) an IgG binding non-IgG molecule, like complement or C-reactive protein. In both cases the complexed IgG may be alternatively targeted to lectin receptors of effector cells, e.g. dendritic cells.
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair With a Novel Hernia Mesh Incorporating a Nitinol Alloy Frame Compared With a Standard Lightweight Polypropylene Mesh
Authors: Bower Curtis , Hazey Jeffrey W. , Jones Edward L. , Perry Kyle A. , Davenport Daniel L. , Roth J. Scott
Published: November 2014

Background. Numerous mesh materials are available for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. The role of fixation of mesh in laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair remains controversial. Mesh materials have been engineered to anatomically conform to the pelvis to potentially reduce or eliminate the need for fixation. This study evaluates the outcomes of laparoscopic inguinal hernia utilizing a device consisting of a lightweight polypropylene mesh with a nitinol frame (Rebound HRD) compared with repair with lightweight polypropylene mesh with permanent tack fixation. Methods. A prospective randomized trial evaluating the outcomes of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with a lightweight polypropylene mesh with a nitinol frame (N-LWM) compared with standard lightweight polypropylene mesh (LWM) was conducted. Randomization was performed at an N-LWM to LWM ratio of 2:1. Repairs were standardized to a laparoscopic extraperitoneal approach without fixation for N-LWM and titanium tack fixation for LWM repairs. Follow-up assessments were performed at 7 days, 6 months, and 1 year. Outcome measures include visual analog pain scale (VAS), Short Form 36 (SF-36), Carolinas Comfort Scale (CCS), operative details, complications, and recurrences. Results. There were 47 patients that underwent laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair and adhered to study protocol (31 N-LWM, 16 LWM). The groups did not differ significantly in age, body mass index, ethnicity, or employment. The N-LWM group had bilateral mesh placed in 51.6% and LWM 43.8% ( P = .76). Operative duration was similar, 59.6 ± 23.1 minutes for LWM and 62.4 ± 26.7 minutes for N-LWM ( P = .705) as was mesh handling time was 5.4 ± 3.1 minutes LWM versus 7.3 ± 3.9 minutes N-LWM ( P = .053). VAS, CCS, and SF-36 survey results were similar between groups. There was one recurrence (0.03%) in the N-LWM group. Conclusions. Nitinol-framed lightweight polypropylene mesh may be safely used during laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair with outcomes comparable to LWM at 1 year. N-LWM does not impact operating room time, mesh handling time, pain, recurrences, or complications.
Pregnancy and cystic fibrosis: Approach to contemporary management
Authors: Geake James , Tay George , Callaway Leonie , Bell Scott C
Published: November 2014

Over the previous 50 years survival of patients with cystic fibrosis has progressively increased. As a result of improvements in health care, increasing numbers of patients with cystic fibrosis are now considering starting families of their own. For the health care professionals who look after these patients, the assessment of the potential risks, and the process of guiding prospective parents through pregnancy and beyond can be both challenging and rewarding. To facilitate appropriate discussions about pregnancy, health care workers must have a detailed understanding of the various important issues that will ultimately need to be considered for any patient with cystic fibrosis considering parenthood. This review will address these issues. In particular, it will outline pregnancy outcomes for mothers with cystic fibrosis, issues that need to be taken into account when planning a pregnancy and the management of pregnancy for mothers with cystic fibrosis or mothers who have undergone organ transplantation as a result of cystic fibrosis.
Who Wants to Be the Leader? The Linguistic Construction of Emerging Leadership in Differently Gendered Teams
Authors: Baxter Judith
Published: November 2014

Increasingly, scholars are contesting the value of grand theories of leadership in favor of a social constructionist or “discursive” approach that posits the centrality of language for “doing” leadership. This article investigates whether the linguistic enactment of leadership varies according to the gender composition of the team, a feature that may have consequences for the career progression of women business leaders. Within the context of a U.K.-based study of three leadership teams (men only, women only, and mixed gender), I use an interactional sociolinguistic framework to analyze what leadership “looks and sounds like” as it emerges during the course of a competitive team task. My findings show that the linguistic construction of leadership varies considerably within each team, although not in conventionally gendered ways. The study also offers feminist linguistic insights on the business issue of why so few women progress from middle management to senior leadership roles.