bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multitarget geolocation via an agricultural octorotor based on orthographic projection and data association
Authors: Garcia Christian A , Xu Yunjun
Published: June 2017

In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles with onboard spectral sensors have been used in detecting diseases in the agricultural fields. Geolocation, i.e. calculating the global coordinate of identified diseased regions based on images taken, is an important step in automating such a scouting operation. In this paper, the problem of geolocating multiple diseased regions in an image is studied. Based on the assumptions of stationary, two-dimensional shallow target plants and hover flight, an orthographic projection-based measurement model is developed. A probabilistic data association method is used to analyze the measurements from different target sources and a Kalman filter is designed to estimate the suspected diseased leaves’ position. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first time a data association technique is used in for locating multiple-diseased plants in agriculture applications. Additionally, the designed Kalman filter is based on conditions pertinent to small crops and is less computationally intensive than the typically used extended Kalman filter. Both simulation and ad hoc experiments are used to validate the proposed multitarget geolocation algorithm.
Effects of aeroelasticity on the performance of hypersonic inlet
Authors: Ye Kun , Ye Zhengyin , Zhang Qing , Qu Zhan
Published: June 2017

Effects of the aeroelasticity on the performance of the hypersonic inlet have been investigated numerically in this study. The aeroelasticity has been simulated using the coupled computational fluid dynamics/computational structural dynamics method, which is solved by the in-house code. The unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations have been solved in the computational fluid dynamics simulation, and the modal method has been adopted in the computational structural dynamics simulation. Two cases have been utilized to validate the numerical method. Finally, the aeroelasticity has been simulated for inlet plate with different thicknesses. The effects of aeroelasticity on performance parameters and flow structure have been discussed in detail. The results show that the generalized displacements present the “beat” phenomenon in the time domain. The power spectral density of the generalized displacements implies that the aeroelastic instability is mainly caused by the coupling between the fourth- and fifth-order modes. The time-average flow rate coefficient and pressure rise ratio increase relative to the initial value, while the total pressure recovery coefficient decreases. The fluctuation amplitude of the flow rate coefficient is small, while that of the total pressure recovery coefficient and pressure rise ratio are relatively large. Besides, the phases of the three performance parameters are greatly different. Furthermore, the aeroelasticity has significant effect on the shock wave structure especially at the exit of the inlet.
Multienergy vector modelling of a Scottish Energy System: Transitions and technology implications
Authors: Robertson Elizabeth , Galloway Stuart
Published: May 2017

The Scottish Government’s commitment for 100% of electricity consumed in Scotland to be from renewable, zero-carbon sources by 2020 continues to drive change in the energy system alongside European and UK targets. The growth of renewables in Scotland is being seen at many scales including industrial, domestic and community generation. In these latter two cases, a transition from the current ‘top down’ energy distribution system to a newer approach is emerging. The work of this paper will look at a ‘bottom up’ view that sees community led distributed energy at its centre. This paper uses the modelling tool HESA to investigate high penetrations of distributed generation in the Angus Region of Scotland. Installations of distributed generation will follow Thousand Flowers transition pathway trajectory, which sees more than 50% of electricity demand being supplied by distributed generation by 2050. From this, insights around the technological and socio-political feasibility, consequences and implications of high penetrations of distributed generation in the UK energy system are presented. Results demonstrate the influence that system change will have on regional and local emission levels under four separate scenarios. It is shown that the penetration of distributed generation requires supplementary installations of reliable and long-term storage alongside utilisation of transmission and transportation infrastructures to maximise the potential of distributed generation and maximise whole system benefits. Importantly, there must be a level of co-ordination and support to realise a shift to a highly distributed energy future to ensure there is a strong economic case with a reliable policy backing.
Effects of insulin+glucose pretreatment on bupivacaine cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Pişkin Ö , Aydın BG
Published: June 2017

A mistaken overdose of bupivacaine into systemic circulation may cause severe cardiovascular side effects. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of pretreatment with combined intra venous lipid emulsion (ILE) and high-dose insulin therapy against cardiotoxicity caused by bupivacaine intoxication. The rats were divided into the following three groups: Group B received a saline pretreatment plus a bupivacaine, group L received ILE pretreatment plus a bupivacaine, and in group I, insulin with glucose was infused intravenously, plus ILE pretreatment plus a bupivacaine. The electrocardiogram tracing, invasive arterial pressure, and heart rate (HR) of rats were monitored continuously. Arterial blood gas analysis was performed in all groups. Arterial blood gas analysis revealed that the baseline pH, PaO2, and PaCO2 values were similar between groups ( p > 0.05). Widening of Q, R, and S wave complex was found 46.8 ± 16.7, 92.0 ± 5.80, and 106.5 ± 17.9 s after initiation of bupivacaine infusion in groups B, L, and I, respectively. Time elapsed until 25% reduction of HR 127.3 ± 17.7, 248.4 ± 34.1, and 260.1 ± 51.3 s for groups B, L, and I, and 25% reduction of mean arterial pressure 107.6 ± 14.1, 253.2 ± 36.3, and 292 ± 57.7 s for groups B, L, and I, respectively. Arrhythmia was observed after 142.2 ± 27.5, 180.7 ± 17.8, and 190.7 ± 19.2 s for groups B, L, and I, respectively. Finally, asystole occurred after 560.1 ± 76.4, 782.4 ± 63.0, and 882.5 ± 105.1 s for groups B, L, and I, respectively. This finding indicates that the survival time of rats administered pretreatment with ILE plus insulin+glucose and those given ILE was observed to be longer.
Autoimmune abnormality affects ovulation and oocyte-pick-up in MRL/MpJ-Faslpr/lpr mice
Authors: Hosotani M , Ichii O , Nakamura T , Kanazawa S O , Elewa Y Hosny Ali , Kon Y
Published: June 2017

Ovulation and oocyte-pick-up are essential processes in fertilization. Herein, we found associations between autoimmune disease and the aforementioned processes in mice. At three and six months, along with the evaluation of autoimmune disease indices, the ovary, mesosalpinx, and oviducts were histologically examined in C57BL/6, MRL/MpJ, and MRL/MpJ-Fas lpr/lpr mice as healthy control, mild and severe models of autoimmune disease, respectively. In superovulated mice, the number of “oocyte cumulus complexes” found in the ampulla was macroscopically counted, and that of “ovulated oocytes” was histologically evaluated, as indicated by ruptured follicles or corpora hemorrhagica in ovaries. Finally, the oocyte-pick-up rate was calculated. In MRL/MpJ-Fas lpr/lpr mice, the oocyte-pick-up rate decreased with disease-related deterioration, unlike in other mouse strains. Further, more ovulated oocytes were found in MRL/MpJ mice than in C57BL/6 mice, and this number significantly decreased with aging in MRL/MpJ-Fas lpr/lpr mice. Numerous T-cells infiltrated into the infundibulum or a part of the mesosalpinx in aged MRL/MpJ-Fas lpr/lpr mice, and their infundibulum showed swelling and fewer ciliated epithelial cells compared to that of C57BL/6 mice. In conclusion, the progression of severe autoimmune disease affected the oocyte-pick-up process through histopathological changes in the infundibulum. These results provide important insights into female infertility associated with autoimmune disease.
Newly developed dilute Russell’s viper venom reagents for lupus anticoagulant detection with improved specificity
Authors: Moore G W , Peyrafitte M , Dunois C , Amiral J
Published: May 2017

Background

Dilute Russell’s viper venom time (dRVVT) is indispensible in lupus anticoagulant (LA) detection yet commercial reagents from different suppliers perform variably, no gold standard assays exist and therapeutic anticoagulation interference is problematic.

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare a new formulation dRVVT with two currently available dRVVTs.

Materials and methods

Life Diagnostics (LD) dRVVT and Stago PTT-LA were routinely used for lupus anticoagulant detection, plus Taipan snake venom time/ecarin time (TSVT/ET) for patients on warfarin or rivaroxaban. Siemens dRVVT and the new HYPHEN BioMed (HBM) dRVVT were tested with 193 patient samples. Group 1, 59 non-anticoagulated patients (NAPs) LA-positive in LD dRVVT; Group 2, 15 PTT-LA-positive/dRVVT-negative NAPs; Group 3, 24 LA-positive warfarinized patients; Group 4, 13 patients on rivaroxaban; Group 5, 62 LA-negative thrombotic NAPs; Group 6, 20 warfarinized, non-antiphospholipid syndrome patients.

Results

Accepting that the Life Diagnostics reagents were acting as a pseudo-gold standard, Siemens dRVVT detected 56/59, (95%) Group 1 LA and HBM dRVVT 46/59, (76%), one each from Group 2, and Siemens dRVVT detected one in Group 5. The lower HBM dRVVT detection rate mainly concerned weaker LA, where between-reagent concordance is problematic. All Group 3 patients appeared LA-positive in undiluted plasma with Siemens dRVVT, as did 16/24 (67%) with HBM dRVVT but the fewer LA-positives in mixing tests better mapped to clear LA-positives with LD dRVVT. LD and Siemens dRVVTs exhibited 87% and 95% false-positivity for Group 6 whilst HBM dRVVT had none. Increasing the cut-off improved accuracy. Applying higher cut-offs improved accuracy in Group 4 patients.

Conclusion

HBM dRVVT exhibited improved specificity, mainly due to less interference by anticoagulation, but reduced sensitivity, compared to the other dRVVTs employed.
Equality, proportionality and dignity: The guiding principles for a just legal system
Authors: Bell Justice Virginia
Published: June 2017

Each year Newcastle Law School presents the Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture to celebrate the establishment of the School’s Bachelor of Laws degree program. Sir Ninian Stephen delivered the first lecture in 1993 and an eminent lawyer is invited to speak each academic year. Justice Virginia Bell of the High Court of Australia delivered the 24th Annual Sir Ninian Stephen Lecture on 29 April 2016. This is an edited version of Justice Bell’s lecture.
Dynamic shape control of piezocomposite-actuated morphing wings with vibration suppression
Authors: Wang Xiaoming , Zhou Wenya , Xun Guangbin , Wu Zhigang
Published: May 2017

Aerodynamic properties and aeroelastic responses of morphing wings can be improved via active shape control using piezoelectric actuators. In this article, a type of piezocomposite material called macro-fiber composite is used for actuation to achieve shape control of the morphing wing. This study focuses on the vibration suppression of the wing during dynamic morphing motion in open-loop architecture. The aeroelastic model is established using finite element method and Theodorsen unsteady aerodynamic loads. Because the arbitrary selection of any admissible control voltage profiles will cause vibrations of the wing structure and fluctuations in aerodynamic lift, a dynamic shape control approach is presented to optimize the voltage profiles for the actuators. A proof-of-concept simulation is presented for a scaled high-aspect-ratio wing. The results show that continuous, smooth morphing motion with gentle aeroelastic responses can be realized by applying the optimum voltage profiles. The dynamic shape control performance of the morphing wing can be improved compared with step and ramp voltage profiles.
Supramalleolar Osteotomy for Tibial Component Malposition in Total Ankle Replacement
Authors: Deforth Manja , Krähenbühl Nicola , Zwicky Lukas , Knupp Markus , Hintermann Beat
Published: May 2017

Background:

Persistent pain despite a total ankle replacement is not uncommon. A main source of pain may be an insufficiently balanced ankle. An alternative to the revision of the existing arthroplasty is the use of a corrective osteotomy of the distal tibia, above the stable implant. This strictly extraarticular procedure preserves the integrity of the replaced joint. The aim of this study was to review a series of patients in whom a corrective supramalleolar osteotomy was performed to realign a varus misaligned tibial component in total ankle replacement. We hypothesized that the supramalleolar osteotomy would correct the malpositioned tibial component, resulting in pain relief and improvement of function.

Methods:

Twenty-two patients (9 male, 13 female; mean age, 62.6 years; range, 44.7-80) were treated with a supramalleolar osteotomy to correct a painful ankle with a varus malpositioned tibial component. Prospectively recorded radiologic and clinical outcome data as well as complications and reoperations were analyzed.

Results:

The tibial anterior surface angle significantly changed from 85.2 ± 2.5 degrees preoperatively to 91.4 ± 2.9 degrees postoperatively ( P < .0001), the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society hindfoot score significantly increased from 46 ± 14 to 66 ± 16 points ( P < .0001) and the patient’s pain score measured with the visual analog scale significantly decreased from 5.8 ± 1.9 to 3.3 ± 2.4 ( P < .001). No statistical difference was found in the tibial lateral surface angle and the range of motion of the ankle when comparing the preoperative to the postoperative measurements. The osteotomy healed in all but 3 patients on first attempt. Fifteen patients (68%) were (very) satisfied, 4 moderately satisfied, and 3 patients were not satisfied with the result.

Conclusion:

The supramalleolar osteotomy was found to be a reliable treatment option for correcting the varus misaligned tibial component in a painful replaced ankle. However, nonunion (14%) should be mentioned as a possible complication of this surgery. Nonetheless, as a strictly extraarticular procedure, it did not compromise function of the previously replaced ankle, and it was shown to relieve pain without having to have revised a well-fixed ankle arthroplasty.

Level of evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Role for Thrombin Receptor Antagonism With Vorapaxar in Secondary Prevention of Atherothrombotic Events: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Moon Jae Youn , Franchi Francesco , Rollini Fabiana , Angiolillo Dominick J.
Published: June 2017

In spite of treatment with the current standard of care antiplatelet regimens including dual antiplatelet therapy, recurrence rates of ischemic events remain elevated for high-risk patients with atherosclerotic disease. This may be in part attributed to the fact that other key platelet activation pathways remain uninhibited and can thus continue to trigger platelet activation and lead to thrombotic complications. Thrombin is a powerful inducer of platelet activation and mediates its effects directly on platelets through protease activator receptors (PARs), particularly the PAR-1 subtype, making PAR-1 inhibition an attractive approach for reducing atherothrombotic events. These observations have led to the development of several PAR-1 antagonists. Vorapaxar is a direct inhibitor of PAR-1 and the only agent of this class approved for the prevention of recurrent ischemic events in patients with prior myocardial infarction or peripheral artery disease. In the present manuscript, we present a review of the pathophysiologic role of thrombin on thrombotic complications, the impact of vorapaxar on outcomes, including the most recent updates deriving from clinical trials, as well as future perspectives in the field.
Thoughts and Considerations of Women With Bipolar Disorder About Family Planning and Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Stevens Anja Wilhelmina Margaretha Maria , Daggenvoorde Thea Henrica , van der Klis Samuel Martinus Dianshah , Kupka Ralph Werner , Goossens Peter Jan Joseph
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND: Women with bipolar disorder have an increased risk of relapse during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and they often express broad concerns about family planning. OBJECTIVE: To explore the thoughts and considerations of women of childbearing age with bipolar disorder, about family planning and pregnancy. DESIGN: A qualitative study was conducted: 15 women with bipolar I disorder were individually interviewed. Content analysis was applied. RESULTS: Women worried about heritability of bipolar disorder, medication issues, and risk of relapse during pregnancy. They mentioned their fear to be incompetent as a mother during future mood episodes. Support of partner, family/friends, and professionals was mentioned as essential. CONCLUSIONS: Family planning is an essential topic in the treatment of every woman with bipolar disorder of childbearing age. These women expect early consultation with professionals for support, and specific information about heritability of the illness and use of medication during and after pregnancy.
Euler elastica as a Γ-limit of discrete bending energies of one-dimensional chains of atoms
Authors: Español Malena I , Golovaty Dmitry , Wilber J Patrick
Published: May 2017

In the 1920s, Hencky proposed a discrete elastica model describing a chain of identical rigid bars connected by torsional springs. Hencky observed that this discrete elastica model converges to Euler’s elastica as the number of bars increases while their lengths decrease, and Hencky’s bar-chain model has been used primarily as an approximation of Euler’s elastica. A Hencky-type bar-chain model can also be incorporated into a Frenkel–Kontorova-type discrete atomistic model, where the joints and bars represent the atoms and interatomic bonds, respectively, while the entire chain of atoms interacts with either a substrate or other chains. The energy of a continuum system corresponding to this Frenkel–Kontorova-type model can then be recovered by taking an appropriate discrete-to-continuum limit. Developing a correct limiting procedure for the discrete elastica establishes the bending component of this continuum energy. In this paper we use Γ-convergence to rigorously show that as the bar length in the discrete elastica model we consider goes to 0, the bending energies of the chain Γ-converge to the continuum bending energy associated with Euler’s elastica.
Incorporating Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil and sodium bentonite nano-clay open a new perspective to use zein films as bioactive packaging materials
Authors: Kashiri Mahboobeh , Maghsoudlo Yahya , khomeiri Morteza
Published: May 2017

Active zein films with different levels of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil were produced successfully. To enhance properties of this biopolymer for food packaging applications, sodium bentonite clay was used at two levels (2 and 4%). The results indicated that the addition of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil caused a reduction in tensile strength and Young’s modulus and slight increase in the percent of elongation at break of the films. Maximum solubility in water and water vapor permeability was observed by incorporation of 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in the zein matrix. Transmission electron microscopy micrographs of zein film were verified by the exfoliation of the layers of sodium bentonite clay in the zein matrix. Stronger films with lower water vapor permeability and water solubility were evident of good distribution of sodium bentonite clay in the zein matrix. According to the results, 2% sodium bentonite clay was selected for evaluation of nano active film properties. Water vapor permeability, UV light barrier, tensile strength, and Young’s modulus values of active films were improved by incorporation of 2% sodium bentonite clay. The antibacterial activity of different contents of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in vapor phase demonstrated that use of Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil in the liquid phase was more effective than in vapor phase. The antibacterial zein-based films showed that active zein film with 5 and 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil had reductions of 1.68 log and 2.99 log, respectively, against Listeria monocytogenes and 1.39 and 3.07 log against Escherichia coli. Nano active zein film containing 10% Z. multiflora Boiss. essential oil and 2% sodium bentonite clay showed better antibacterial properties against L. monocytogenes (3.23 log) and E. coli (3.17 log).
Pasting, rheological, and retrogradation properties of low-amylose rice starch with date syrup
Authors: Mohamed Ibrahim O , Babucurr Jobe
Published: May 2017

Effects of date syrup on pasting, rheological, and retrogradation properties of low-amylose rice starch were investigated using three levels of date syrup (starch:syrup 1:1, 1:2, or 1:3). Measurements were carried out using HR-2 Discovery Rheometer equipped with a pasting cell and parallel plate geometry. The pasting measurements showed that the peak viscosity of the control is significantly higher than the samples with date syrup (p < 0.05), while the final viscosity increases with increased date syrup levels. Addition of date syrup increases the solid-like behavior of the gel in reverse order with increased date syrup levels. Low-amylose starch gel used in this study showed minor changes in elastic modulus (G′) during one week cold storage indicting that low-amylose rice starch is resistant to retrogradation. Addition of date syrup slightly resulted in increased retrogradation compared to the control.
Utility and Clinical Profile of Dexmedetomidine in Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization Procedures: A Matched Controlled Analysis
Authors: Riveros Ricardo , Makarova Natalya , Riveros-Perez Efrain , Chodavarapu Praneeta , Saasouh Wael , Yılmaz Hüseyin Oğuz , Cuko Evis , Babazade Rovnat , Kimatian Stephen , Turan Alparslan
Published: May 2017

Background. Dexmedetomidine is increasingly used in children undergoing cardiac catheterization procedures. We compared the percentage of surgical time with hemodynamic instability and the incidence of postoperative agitation between pediatric cardiac catheterization patients who received dexmedetomidine infusion and those who did not and the incidence of postoperative agitation. Materials and methods. We matched 653 pediatric patients scheduled for cardiac catheterization. Two separate multivariable linear mixed models were used to assess the association between dexmedetomidine use and intraoperative blood pressure and heart rate instability. A multivariate logistic regression was used for relationship between dexmedetomidine and postoperative agitation. Results. No difference between the study groups was found in the duration of MAP ( P = .867) or heart rate (HR) instabilities ( P = .224). The relationship between dexmedetomidine use and the duration of negative hemodynamic effects does not depend on any of the considered CHD types (all P > .001) or intervention ( P = .453 for MAP and P = .023 for HR). No difference in postoperative agitation was found between the study groups ( P = .590). Conclusion. Our study demonstrated no benefit in using dexmedetomidine infusion compared with other general anesthesia techniques to maintain hemodynamic stability or decrease agitation in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac catheterization procedures.
Vulvar Basal Cell Carcinoma: Four Case Reports With Immunohistochemical Study
Authors: García-de-la-Fuente Mª Reyes , Santacana Maria , Vilardell Felip , Pujol R. M. , Gari Eloi , Casanova J. M.
Published: June 2017

Basal cell carcinomas (BCC) are the most frequent tumours in humans and normally appear in photoexposed areas of the skin. It is widely accepted that BCCs originate at follicular stem cells and consequently are very rare in nonhairy areas. Here, we report 4 cases of vulvar BCC, 3 of which were located in a vulvar semimucous area, a nonphotoexposed area, and a nonhairy area. We have determined the CK7 and CK19 profile of all cases; both are markers of simple epithelium with glandular differentiation. Interestingly, all cases were positively stained for CK7 and CK19. Considering that the vulvar region is rich in sebaceous and apocrine units, we hypothesise a glandular origin of BCCs situated in the vulvar region.
Innovation practices in schools: The impact of different models of organization on the practice of Norwegian municipalities
Authors: Jentoft Nina
Published: May 2017

Services provided by primary schools have a significant impact on citizens’ living conditions. We need more knowledge of how innovation activities in primary schools should be organized and managed. This article addresses this gap by raising the following question: ‘Why do municipalities have different ways of organizing preventive work in primary schools and what impact do different organizational approaches have on professionals’ judgement and their decisions to call attention to children at risk, their response patterns and interdisciplinary/interagency cooperation?’ The qualitative exploration of these questions is based on in-depth interviews with head teachers and teachers in 10 Norwegian municipalities. My findings indicate that institutional entrepreneurship can be essential in creating an arena for ‘bricolage’ or collaborative processes and that, through a new organizational approach, an altered institutional framework contributes to building cooperation among professionals and gives a basis for incremental innovations.
‘I am he. I am he. Siri rules’: Work and play with the Apple Watch
Authors: Wilmott Clancy , Fraser Emma , Lammes Sybille
Published: May 2017

In this article, we will use autoethnographic accounts of our use of the Apple Watch to analyse a new type of ludic labour that has emerged in recent years, in which leisure activities are redefined in terms of work and quantifiable data. Wearable devices like the Apple Watch encourage us to share data about ourselves and our activities, dividing our attention in everyday contexts as ‘quasi-objects’ that need our input to hybridise work and play, offering opportunities to merge leisure and labour, and also the possibility for resistant practices in the interstices between function and failure. We combine perspectives from Science and Technology studies, media studies and play studies, including the ‘quantified self’ and the ‘Internet of Things’, to argue that while the Apple Watch moves us closer to merging with the machine, its inability to provide what it promises offers a way out – a more positive understanding of intimate, wearable computing technology.
Exploring online news: What elpais.com’s and eldiario.es’s narratives tell about the migrant crossings of the Morocco–Spain border
Authors: Di Renzo Francesca
Published: May 2017

This article explores the narrative construction of online news about the migrant crossings of the Morocco–Spain border. In particular, it analyses 54 news items that were published in two Spanish news media, elpais.com and eldiario.es, from September 2013 to May 2015. A semiotic-informed approach is proposed here to discuss how the two news media narrated the migrant border crossings and to outline how they communicated migration-related meanings and cultural values through news texts, images, videos and hyperlink contents. The results emphasise how readers can engage with online news content in different ways and through distinct although intertwined levels of reading.
Book review: Harvey, P. and Knox, H. 2015: Roads: An Anthropology of Infrastructure and Expertise
Authors: Menezes Deborah
Published: June 2017

Harvey, P. and Knox, H. 2015: Roads: An Anthropology of Infrastructure and Expertise. New York: Cornell University Press. xiv + 239 pp. $79.95. ISBN: 9780801453236 (Hardcover). $26.95. ISBN: 9780801479649 (Paperback).
Jews by choice? Orthodox conversion, the problem of choice, and Jewish religiopolitics in the Israeli state
Authors: Kravel-Tovi Michal
Published: May 2017

Anthropologists have long displayed interest in the tension between choice and coercion in processes of religious conversion. In this article, I draw from ethnographic work in contemporary Israel to explore the ways in which this tension animates pedagogic formations of Orthodox Jewish conversion. I argue that conversion teachers’ concerns are rooted in the tension they identify between the religious ideal scripts of Jewish conversion, as an individual voluntary act, and governing religiopolitical state structures of conversion. I show how teachers insist on the image of the willing convert, while simultaneously considering, albeit with limited effect, the withered resonance that these images hold in the lived experience of their students. By contextualizing and analyzing the ‘problem of choice’ besetting conversion teachers, this article sheds light on some of the underlying forces that influence how non-Jews become Jews in the Jewish state.
Robust generalized dynamic inversion based control of autonomous underwater vehicles
Authors: Ansari Uzair , Bajodah Abdulrahman H
Published: May 2017

A novel two-loop structured robust generalized dynamic inversion–based control system is proposed for autonomous underwater vehicles. The outer (position) loop of the generalized dynamic inversion control system utilizes proportional-derivative control of the autonomous underwater vehicle’s inertial position errors from the desired inertial position trajectories, and it provides the reference yaw and pitch attitude angle commands to the inner loop. The inner (attitude) loop utilizes generalized dynamic inversion control of a prescribed asymptotically stable dynamics of the attitude angle errors from their reference values, and it provides the required control surface deflections such that the desired inertial position trajectories of the vehicle are tracked. The dynamic inversion singularity is avoided by augmenting a dynamic scaling factor within the Moore–Penrose generalized inverse in the particular part of the generalized dynamic inversion control law. The involved null control vector in the auxiliary part of the generalized dynamic inversion control law is constructed to be linear in the pitch and yaw angular velocities, and the proportionality gain matrix is designed to guarantee global closed-loop asymptotic stability of the vehicle’s angular velocity dynamics. An additional sliding mode control element is included in the particular part of the generalized dynamic inversion control system, and it works to robustify the closed-loop system against tracking performance deterioration due to generalized inversion scaling, such that semi-global practically stable attitude tracking is guaranteed. A detailed six degrees-of-freedom mathematical model of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute autonomous underwater vehicle is used to evaluate the control system design, and numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate closed-loop system performance under various types of autonomous underwater vehicle maneuvers, under both nominal and perturbed autonomous underwater vehicle system’s mathematical model parameters.
Enhancing Understanding of Community and Public Health
Authors: Kim Richard W. , Nahar Vinayak K.
Published: May 2017

Introduction to Community and Public Health presents the essentials of community and public health and uses the diverse, real-world experiences of the authors to provide practical and memorable understandings of major concepts and principles. It is straightforward and easy to read with frequent examples and scenarios along with focus features in each chapter that describe interesting discoveries or applications that keep the reader captivated. This practical overview provides 545 valuable pages outlining the essentials of community and public health. Students, health educators, and practitioners at all levels will find this book to be a well–thought out, convenient, and effective resource in the classroom and beyond. The application of well-established principles and contemporary knowledge alike make this textbook a strong contribution to the educational and professional literature.
The Influence of Word Frequency on Word Retrieval: Measuring Covert Behaviors
Authors: Chih Yu-Chun , Stierwalt Julie A. G. , LaPointe Leonard L. , Chih Yu-Pin
Published: May 2017

Physiological activities (heart rate and respiratory rate) during a word retrieval task were measured in normal participants. Word frequency demonstrated a significant effect on naming accuracy and latencies but not on physiological activities. These data will serve as a basis for comparison for individuals with a compromised language system.
An authenticated theoretical modeling of electrified fluid jet in core–shell nanofibers production
Authors: Rafiei Saeedeh , Noroozi Babak , Heltai Luca , Haghi Akbar Khodaparast
Published: May 2017

Control and optimization of coaxial electrospinning process is a serious concern due to its multiparameter effectiveness. This study is concerned with modeling and simulation of process by solving the governing equations of electrified jet using FEniCS software packages applying Cahn–Hilliard and Newton solvers for finite element method. Jet diameter, solvent evaporation, electrical field, and velocity changes are focused in this model as the most effective parameters on final nanostructures quality. An experimental core–shell nanofiber production (polyvinyl alcohol) in the same spinning condition with simulated spinning is applied to validate the model. Both theoretical and experimental results demonstrate that core and shell diameter increases by increase in nozzle diameter and polymer solution concentration. Relative error shows that for the higher nozzle diameter, the model can have an acceptable prediction for final diameter which is more accurate for shell diameter part. The simulation results for jet velocity indicate a sharp sinusoidal increase during jet motion. Electric field simulation also shows a result similar to Feng’s model with an increase near the nozzle and a very slow decline at the end which both are confirmed by other experimental and numerical studies. It is also concluded that by enlargement of nozzle diameter, solvent evaporation takes more time and as a result, the inhomogeneity and diameter increase which have the same trend as experimental results. The relative error of evaporation time decreases in nanojets with higher diameter. And the model has an acceptable compatibility with experimental results especially for nozzle diameters more than 50 µm.
Assessment of Distal Radioulnar Joint Stability After Reconstruction With the Brachioradialis Wrap
Authors: Burke Charity S. , Zoeller Keith A. , Waddell Seid W. , Nyland John A. , Voor Michael J. , Gupta Amitava
Published: May 2017

Background: The brachioradialis (BR) wrap technique is an option to restore the stability of the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ). The technique capitalizes on the BR’s advantageous insertion point on the radial styloid and the ability of the BR to be harvested with minimal to no deficit. The tendon can then be wrapped around the radius and ulna, tunneling under the pronator quadratus and extensor compartments and secured back into its insertion to provide stability. In this cadaveric study, we used micro-computed tomography (CT) to assess the stability restored by this procedure. Methods: Axial CT scans were taken of cadaveric specimens (n = 10) in 3 different positions (neutral, 60° pronation, and 60° supination) to establish the baseline measurements of each DRUJ. Surgical disruption of the dorsal and volar ligaments of each DRUJ then simulated a destabilizing injury and the specimens were scanned again. The specimens then underwent the BR wrap procedure and were scanned once more. Degree of ulnar subluxation with respect to the Sigmoid notch was determined using the modified radioulnar line method. Results: The mean percentages of subluxation in the neutral position for the normal, injured, and reconstructed DRUJ were 22.4±4.9%, 56.2±12.9%, and 29.0±6.5%, respectively. In 60° pronation, these values were 15.4±4.7%, 53.5±15.0%, and 36.5±11.8%, respectively. In 60° supination, these values were 18.6±2.5%, 69.7±20.5%, and 31.9±8.7%, respectively. Conclusions: Values differed significantly between normal and injured conditions in all positions. No significant difference was noted between normal and reconstructed conditions, suggesting reconstruction improves DRUJ biomechanics and more closely approximates normal stability.
Peripheral KV7 channels regulate visceral sensory function in mouse and human colon
Authors: Peiris Madusha , Hockley James RF , Reed David E , Smith Ewan St. John , Bulmer David C , Blackshaw L Ashley
Published: June 2017

Background

Chronic visceral pain is a defining symptom of many gastrointestinal disorders. The KV7 family (KV7.1–KV7.5) of voltage-gated potassium channels mediates the M current that regulates excitability in peripheral sensory nociceptors and central pain pathways. Here, we use a combination of immunohistochemistry, gut-nerve electrophysiological recordings in both mouse and human tissues, and single-cell qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction of gut-projecting sensory neurons, to investigate the contribution of peripheral KV7 channels to visceral nociception.

Results

Immunohistochemical staining of mouse colon revealed labelling of KV7 subtypes (KV7.3 and KV7.5) with CGRP around intrinsic enteric neurons of the myenteric plexuses and within extrinsic sensory fibres along mesenteric blood vessels. Treatment with the KV7 opener retigabine almost completely abolished visceral afferent firing evoked by the algogen bradykinin, in agreement with significant co-expression of mRNA transcripts by single-cell qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for KCNQ subtypes and the B2 bradykinin receptor in retrogradely labelled extrinsic sensory neurons from the colon. Retigabine also attenuated responses to mechanical stimulation of the bowel following noxious distension (0–80 mmHg) in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the KV7 blocker XE991 potentiated such responses. In human bowel tissues, KV7.3 and KV7.5 were expressed in neuronal varicosities co-labelled with synaptophysin and CGRP, and retigabine inhibited bradykinin-induced afferent activation in afferent recordings from human colon.

Conclusions

We show that KV7 channels contribute to the sensitivity of visceral sensory neurons to noxious chemical and mechanical stimuli in both mouse and human gut tissues. As such, peripherally restricted KV7 openers may represent a viable therapeutic modality for the treatment of gastrointestinal pathologies.
Ryk receptors on unmyelinated nerve fibers mediate excitatory synaptic transmission and CCL2 release during neuropathic pain induced by peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Yang Qing Ou , Yang Wen-Jing , Li Jian , Liu Fang-Ting , Yuan Hongbin , Ou Yang Yue-Ping
Published: June 2017

Background

Neuropathic pain is a major pathology of the central nervous system associated with neuroinflammation. Ryk (receptor-like tyrosine kinase) receptors act as repulsive axon-guidance molecules during development of central nervous system and neural injury. Increasing evidence suggests the potential involvement of Wnt/Ryk (wingless and Int) signaling in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. However, its underlying mechanism remains unknown.

Results

The expression and location of Ryk receptor as well as its ligand Wnt1 were detected by qPCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. We found that Ryk, a specific Wnt receptor, was expressed in IB4+ (Isolectin B4) and CGRP+ (calcitonin gene-related peptide) dorsal root ganglia neurons and their ascending unmyelinated fibers in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Ryk was upregulated after spinal nerve ligation surgery. Wnt1 was also increased in activated astrocytes in the dorsal horn after spinal nerve ligation. The presynaptic mechanism of Ryk in regulation of neuropathic pain was determined by electrophysiology in spinal slice. Spinal nerve ligation model was established, and the therapeutic potential of inhibiting Ryk receptor was determined. Spine-specific blocking of the Wnt/Ryk receptor signaling attenuated the spinal nerve ligation-induced mechanical allodynia but not thermal hyperalgesia. Further, it also blocked Ca2+-dependent signals including CaMKII and PKCγ, subsequent release of CCL2 (CCR-like protein) in the dorsal horn. An in vitro study showed that inactivating Ryk receptors with anti-Ryk antibodies or lentiviral Ryk shRNA led to the inactivation of Wnt1 for excitatory synaptic transmission in spinal slices and subsequent decrease in CCL2 expression in the dorsal root ganglia neurons.

Conclusion

These studies demonstrate the existence of critical crosstalk between astrocytes and unmyelinated fibers, which indicate the presynaptic mechanism of Ryk in cytokine transmission of neuropathic pain and the therapeutic potential for Wnt/Ryk signaling pathway in the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Optimizing the re-profiling policy regarding metropolitan train wheels based on a semi-Markov decision process
Authors: Jiang Zengqiang , Banjevic Dragan , E Mingcheng , Li Bing
Published: June 2017

In this article, we present a maintenance model for metropolitan train wheels subjected to diameter or flange thickness overruns that includes condition monitoring with periodic inspection. We present a dynamic ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]) policy based on condition monitoring information, where [Formula: see text] is the wheel flange thickness threshold that triggers preventive re-profiling and [Formula: see text] is the recovery value for the wheel flange thickness after preventive re-profiling. The problem is modelled as a semi-Markov decision process that considers wear in terms of the diameter and flange thickness simultaneously. The problem is formulated in a two-dimensional state space; this space is defined as a combination of the diameter state and the flange thickness state. The model also considers imperfect wheel maintenance. The model’s objective is to minimize the maintenance cost per unit time that is expected in the long run. We apply a policy-iteration algorithm as the computational approach to determine the optimal re-profiling policy and use an example to demonstrate the method’s effectiveness.
Quantifying the effect of the facemask on helmet performance
Authors: Rowson Bethany , Terrell Evan J , Rowson Steven
Published: June 2017

Evaluating and improving helmet design play a crucial role in reducing sports-related concussions. Despite widespread use of facemasks by football and hockey players, no helmet standards currently exist to test helmets equipped with facemasks. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect that attached facial protection has on the head kinematics resulting from impacts to the helmet shell. Helmets were fit to a modified NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment) headform and subjected to blows from a pneumatic impactor. A total of 240 impact tests were performed to evaluate the effect of the facemask on four helmet models (two for football, two for hockey). For each helmet model, one sample was tested with a facemask and another without a facemask. Tests were conducted at two impact velocities (6, 9 m/s) and three impact locations (front, side, and rear boss) for a total of six impact conditions. Five trials were performed for each helmet sample at each condition. Two-factor analyses of variance were used to quantify effects on linear and rotational head acceleration and Severity Index due to impact location and facemask presence. Significant effects varied by helmet model and impact location and were more commonly associated with football helmets. Differences in facemask effects between sports are likely attributed to differences in facemask-shell attachment mechanisms, and differences in the structure of the facemask itself. The effects of the facemask on linear and rotational acceleration were small, approximately 5% for both football and hockey helmets. On average, peak accelerations were decreased with the addition of a facemask, but individual differences were mixed and varied by helmet type and impact location. These small differences would not greatly affect impact performance tests in the lab. The results of this study have direct applications toward helmet standard development.
Diabetes and Prediabetes Classification Using Glycemic Variability Indices From Continuous Glucose Monitoring Data
Authors: Acciaroli Giada , Sparacino Giovanni , Hakaste Liisa , Facchinetti Andrea , Di Nunzio Giorgio Maria , Palombit Alessandro , Tuomi Tiinamaija , Gabriel Rafael , Aranda Jaime , Vega Saturio , Cobelli Claudio
Published: June 2017

Background:

Tens of glycemic variability (GV) indices are available in the literature to characterize the dynamic properties of glucose concentration profiles from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors. However, how to exploit the plethora of GV indices for classifying subjects is still controversial. For instance, the basic problem of using GV indices to automatically determine if the subject is healthy rather than affected by impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or type 2 diabetes (T2D), is still unaddressed. Here, we analyzed the feasibility of using CGM-based GV indices to distinguish healthy from IGT&T2D and IGT from T2D subjects by means of a machine-learning approach.

Methods:

The data set consists of 102 subjects belonging to three different classes: 34 healthy, 39 IGT, and 29 T2D subjects. Each subject was monitored for a few days by a CGM sensor that produced a glucose profile from which we extracted 25 GV indices. We used a two-step binary logistic regression model to classify subjects. The first step distinguishes healthy subjects from IGT&T2D, the second step classifies subjects into either IGT or T2D.

Results:

Healthy subjects are distinguished from subjects with diabetes (IGT&T2D) with 91.4% accuracy. Subjects are further subdivided into IGT or T2D classes with 79.5% accuracy. Globally, the classification into the three classes shows 86.6% accuracy.

Conclusions:

Even with a basic classification strategy, CGM-based GV indices show good accuracy in classifying healthy and subjects with diabetes. The classification into IGT or T2D seems, not surprisingly, more critical, but results encourage further investigation of the present research.
Modeling Attributes of Human Body Organization Using ISM and AHP
Authors: Agarwal Alpana , Vrat Prem
Published: June 2017

This article is an attempt to model the attributes of human body organization using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and analytic hierarchy process (AHP) approach. The parameters used for modeling are derived from the comparisons between principles and processes followed in a human and a corporate body by Agarwal and Vrat (2014). It is presumed that human body is the nature’s best creation and is a perfectly designed and managed system. Based on this model, few managerial insights are also proposed. These insights can be referred by managers during policy formulation to significantly improve the structure and operating procedures of organizations, which in turn will enhance the performance of individuals as well as organization as a whole.