bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear dynamic properties of disk-bolt rotor with interfacial cutting faults on assembly surfaces
Authors: Liu Yi , Liu Heng , Fan BoWen
Published: August 2017

Interfacial cutting faults on assembly surfaces are considered in a three-dimensional (3D) disk-bolt rotor system. The traditional finite element method is used to establish the 3D model of faulted disk-bolt rotor. A contact algorithm is applied to calculate the static features of this combined rotor. It is revealed that interfacial cutting faults produce rotor bending which is gradually strengthened as rotational speed increases besides disk’s mass eccentricity. The 3D dynamic equations of a faulted disk-bolt rotor system include these cutting faults’ static influences. The nonlinear dynamic properties are investigated by Poincaré mapping, Newton iteration and a prediction-correction algorithm. As a result, the rotor bending due to cutting faults reduces the global stability of the complicated rotor and enlarges the vibration amplitude obviously. This speed-variant bending also decides the feature that rotor vibration increases again after critical speed no matter whether dynamic balance is carried out. The maximum allowable fault depth is obtained and it gives an explanation as to why the machining precision of assembly surfaces should be strictly controlled in the disk-bolt rotor. Generally, this paper originally tries to provide a feasible approach to consider a 3D interfacial cutting fault with specific shape and to analyze the static–dynamic coupling characteristics for a disk-bolt rotor.
Impact of Tax and Expenditure Limits on Local Government Use of Tax-supported Debt
Authors: Kioko Sharon N. , Zhang Pengju
Published: August 2017

This study seeks to broaden our understanding of the impact tax and expenditure limits (TELs) have had on local governments. We chose to focus on local government use of tax-supported debt as TELs are limits on the property tax base and related revenues, two essential components used to determine a government’s legal authority to issue tax-supported debt and its fiscal capacity to maintain long-term solvency. Using county-level data, our analysis finds TELs have a negative impact on local government use of tax-supported debt, especially if the government is subject to a limitation on assessed valuation or the property tax levy.
Undergraduate Dermatology Education in Canada: A National Survey
Authors: Hu Angela , Vender Ron
Published: August 2017

Background:

Canadian dermatology curriculum was reviewed in 1983, 1987, 1996, and 2008. All these surveys highlighted the disproportionately low level of dermatology teaching in relation to the significant amount of skin disease seen by physicians. Since the official adoption and dissemination of the Canadian Professors of Dermatology (CPD) core curriculum and competencies, there has been no assessment of how these changes have influenced dermatology curriculum.

Objective:

This survey gathered information on the current status of undergraduate dermatology education across Canadian medical schools.

Methods:

A survey was sent electronically to all undergraduate dermatology directors at each of the 17 Canadian medical schools.

Results:

Between 2008 and 2017, dermatology teaching has increased 25% to 25.6 ± 17.2 hours of teaching. However, 75% of this teaching is delivered in preclinical years. The number of faculty members, both dermatologists and nondermatologists, has also increased. A growing number of schools are now using electronic formats of teaching. Most schools (59%) are covering all the CPD core curriculum topics.

Conclusion:

Dermatology education is demonstrating positive trends with regards to teaching hours and faculty members. Nevertheless, a more even distribution of content so that students have increased clinical exposure should be achieved. Furthermore, an online atlas of resources would be helpful in standardising curriculum.
Shifting borders, crossing boundaries: The case of combined central and peripheral demyelination
Authors: Aktas Orhan
Published: August 2017

The case report by Puthenparampil et al. suggests that heterogeneity of demyelinating diseases may be more complex than expected. The authors describe a female patient starting with isolated but relapsing myelitis (in the absence of oligoclonal bands or anti-aquaporin 4 antibodies) and later experiencing the simultaneous occurrence of inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and of a tumefactive hippocampal brain lesion responsive to immunotherapy. As testing for antibodies against established and novel auto-antigens including neurofascin-155 was negative, this case may be regarded as an example for the unfolding spectrum of combined central and peripheral demyelination (CCPD) syndromes with so far unknown immunological target(s).
Reforming the professional regulators: Creating an effective, proportionate and efficient system
Authors: Bilton Douglas , Cayton Harry
Published: August 2017

The existing arrangements for the regulation of health and care professionals in the UK are complicated and confusing. They are not informed by a consistent approach to assessing occupational risk of harm. The Professional Standards Authority has analysed the current arrangements and has made a set of proposals for reform. It has also proposed a methodology for assessing risk of harm, to enable the appropriate form of assurance for any given occupation to be identified.
Reducing sugar use in coffee while maintaining enjoyment: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lenne Richie L , Mann Traci
Published: August 2017

Consuming coffee without (or with less) sugar may help people lower their daily calorie intake without restrictive dieting. We tested two theory-based interventions to help people do so. One involved gradually reducing sugar over time, and the other was based on mindfulness theory. These interventions were compared to a repeated exposure (to sugar-free coffee) group. Participants in all conditions had significant increases in consumption of sugar-free coffee that lasted 6 months. The mindfulness group had a larger increase than the others. Unexpectedly, the gradual reduction intervention led to a decrease in liking for sugar-free coffee and was the least effective.
Understanding the emergence and development of medical collaboration across organizational boundaries: A longitudinal case study
Authors: Touati Nassera , Rodríguez Charo , Paquette Marie-Andrée , Denis Jean-Louis
Published: August 2017

Our goal in this investigation was to help shed light on the very difficult process of collaboration between family physicians and specialists working at different levels of healthcare delivery. More precisely, and grounded on Giddens’ structuration theory, our investigation aims to understand how medical collaboration emerges and develops around chronic patients. This was a longitudinal interpretive case study, the “case” being a continuum-of-care for patients suffering from diabetes, put in place in an urban health center in the Canadian province of Quebec. The study shows how the application of rules of signification and of legitimation, combined with domination resources, have supported the emergence of new forms of collaborative practices. Our analysis reveals, however, that new collaborative practices at the administrative level do not necessarily entail greater shared decision-making in patient management and the mobilization of knowledge across boundaries. The study also corroborates the mutual recursive influence of practices and structures. Our study’s most important contribution concerns the impact of knowledge dynamics, that is, individual and collective learning, on the development of medical collaboration across levels of care.
The weight of (the) matter: A new material feminist account of thin and fat oppressions
Authors: Norman Moss Edward , Moola Fiona J.
Published: August 2017

Critical feminist approaches to eating disorders and “obesity” have recently come under criticism for relying too heavily on textual- and image-based analyses of health, identity and body weight, shape, and size. In this article, we examine qualitative interviews with self-identified anorexic and “obese” women using a new material feminist lens—particularly the work of Karen Barad—to see what this perspective contributes to conceptualizations of weight-based oppressions. In addition to outlining how the material world actively participates in ongoing processes of oppression, we also highlight how the body presses back, offering up potentially less oppressive processes of materialization. The article concludes on a cautiously optimistic note, pointing to how a new materialist framework may draw attention to micropolitical processes of becoming otherwise.
Short-term Results of the RAPID

Ra

ndomized Trial of the Legflow

P

aclitaxel-Eluting Balloon With Supera Stenting vs Supera Stenting Alone for the Treatment of

I

nterme

d

iate and Long Superficial Femoral Artery Lesions
Authors: de Boer Sanne W. , van den Heuvel Daniel A. F. , de Vries-Werson Debbie A. B. , Vos Jan Albert , Fioole Bram , Vroegindeweij Damnis , Elgersma Otto E. , Tutein Nolthenius Rudolph P. , Heyligers Jan M. M. , Bosma Gerlof P. T. , de Leeuw Bernart , Bouwman Lee H. , Böckler Dittmar , Dovzhanskiy Dmitriy I. , Vos Floris W. F. , Vink Ted W. F. , Hooijboer Pieter G. A. , Hissink Rutger J. , de Vries Jean-Paul P. M.
Published: August 2017

Purpose: To report a randomized trial comparing the Legflow paclitaxel-eluting balloon (PEB) + Supera stenting to Supera stenting alone in patients with intermediate to long superficial femoral artery (SFA) lesions. Methods: The multicenter RAPID trial ( controlled-trials.com ; identifier ISRCTN47846578) randomized (1:1) 160 patients (mean age 67 years; 102 men) with Rutherford category 2–6 ischemia to treatment with Legflow PEB + Supera stent or Supera stent alone in intermediate to long SFA lesions (mean lesion length 15.8±7.4 vs 15.8±7.6 cm, respectively). The efficacy outcome was primary patency, defined as freedom from restenosis on duplex ultrasound or angiography. Results: Baseline characteristics including the percentage of occlusions were similar between groups. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the estimated primary patency at 1 year was 68.3% (95% CI 56.7% to 79.9%) in the PEB + Supera group vs 62.0% (95% CI 49.1% to 74.9%) in the Supera group (p=0.900). Per-protocol analysis showed a 12-month primary patency estimate of 74.7% (95% CI 63.1% to 86.3%) in the PEB + Supera group vs 62.0% (95% CI 49.1% to 74.9%) in the control group (p=0.273). Secondary patency estimates at 12 months (per-protocol analysis) were 89.0% (95% CI 80.6% to 97.4%) vs 98.0% (95% CI 94.1% to 100%; p=0.484); the estimates for freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD-TLR) were 83.0% (95% CI 72.8% to 93.2%) and 77.8% (95% CI 66.6% to 89.0%; p=0.277), respectively. Conclusion: The short-term results from the multicenter RAPID randomized controlled trial indicate that the Legflow PEB is safe and feasible for the treatment of intermediate to long SFA lesions. In this trial, at least 70% of the patients suffered an occlusion. The PEB group had higher rates of primary patency and freedom from CD-TLR, although there were no statistically significant differences vs controls.
Transformative Learning in Developing as an Engaged Global Citizen
Authors: Robinson Andrew Alan , Levac Leah
Published: August 2017

This article investigates students’ experiences of learning about privilege and oppression in the context of an introductory university course in civic engagement and global citizenship. Participants included 24 students enrolled in the course during either the 2013–2014 or the 2014–2015 academic year. The authors collected data through pretests, students’ course work, posttests, and focus groups administered at the end of the course. Using Mezirow’s theory of transformative learning combined with Curry-Stevens’s pedagogy for the privileged, and employing thematic analysis to interpret data, the authors found that several students experienced transformative learning specifically in relation to philosophical, psychological, epistemic, and moral–ethical habits of mind. We provide examples of this learning while also considering limitations of students’ learning.
Developing the political citizen: How teachers are navigating the statutory demands of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 205 and the Prevent Duty
Authors: Bryan Hazel
Published: August 2017

The ‘Revised Prevent Duty Guidance for England and Wales’ presents statutory guidance under section 29 of the Counter-Terrorism and Security Act 2015. This guidance states that ‘Schools should be safe spaces in which children and young people can understand and discuss sensitive topics, including terrorism and the extremist ideas that are part of terrorist ideology, and learn how to challenge these ideas. The Prevent Duty is not intended to limit discussion of these issues’. The Prevent Duty also requires schools to identify pupils at risk of radicalisation and have in place ‘robust safeguarding policies’. Schools that are unable to satisfy Office for Standards in Education will be subject to ‘intervention’ (maintained schools) or ‘termination of funding’ (academies and free schools). This article explores the interplay between the statutory requirement to provide opportunity for pupils to debate and explore issues relating to citizenship in the public sphere in the light of religious and political discourses and the statutory requirement to monitor and report potential ‘vulnerable’ pupils. It asks what measures are employed to judge ‘vulnerability’ and ‘risk’ when they are encouraged to promote debate and active political engagement. The article argues that in discharging their Prevent Duty, teachers become self-regulating, ‘governmentable subjects’ themselves.
Do ANGPTL-4 and galectin-3 reflect the severity of coronary artery disease?
Authors: Goenka Luxitaa , George Melvin , Singh Vishakha , Jena Amrita , Seshadri Deepika , Karunakaran Vasanth , Elumalai Dhandapani Vellala , Rani Jamuna , Kaliappan Ilango
Published: August 2017

Background:

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide. We thereby sought to investigate whether the biomarkers, angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL-4) and galectin-3, reflect the severity of CAD.

Methods:

Patients were screened based on inclusion/exclusion criteria and written informed consent was obtained from the patients. Serum ANGPTL-4 and galectin-3 was quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and correlated with the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) and GENSINI score using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient and multivariate analysis.

Results:

A total of 226 patients consisting of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-STEMI/unstable angina (USA), chronic stable angina (CSA) and normal controls (NCs) participated in the study. ANGPTL-4 and galectin-3 were significantly higher in CAD than the NC group. ANGPTL-4 showed significant negative correlation with GRACE score in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) ( r = −0.211, p = 0.03) patients. ANGPTL-4 showed significant positive correlation with serum creatinine ( r = 0.304, p = 0.056) and body mass index (BMI) ( r = 0.424, p = 0.009) in CSA patients. A modest positive correlation was observed between the serum galectin-3 levels and GRACE score ( r = 0.187, p = 0.055) in ACS patients. However, on multivariate analysis the positive correlation relationship between ANGPTL-4 and galectin-3 with the severity of CAD was not sustained.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ANGPTL-4 and galectin-3 do not appear to have a promising role for assessing the severity of CAD. Nevertheless these biomarkers do warrant further exploration in improving the management of CAD.
A curve fitting methodology to determine impact location, timing, and instantaneous post-impact ball velocity in cricket batting
Authors: Peploe Chris , McErlain-Naylor Stuart A , Harland Andy R , Yeadon Maurice R , King Mark A
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to develop a methodology for accurate determination of the impact location of a cricket ball on the bat face, as well as the identification of bat–ball contact timing and post-impact instantaneous ball velocity in a whole-body kinematic data collection environment. Three-dimensional kinematic data of bat and ball were recorded during 14 batting strokes: 8 hitting a static ball and 6 against a bowling machine. Curves were fitted separately to the pre- and post-impact phases of the ball position data against time in three axes according to logarithmic equations determined from mechanical principles. Separate Fourier series models were similarly fitted to the four corners of the bat face against time during the downswing prior to ball impact. Time of impact for the dynamic ball trials was determined based on the intersection of pre- and post-impact curves, with impact location calculated from ball and bat face curves at this time. R2 values for the goodness of fit of the ball and bat curves averaged 0.99 ± 0.04 and 1.00 ± 0.00 with root mean square errors of 7.5 ± 2.6 and 0.8 ± 0.2 mm, respectively. Calculated impact locations were assessed against measured impact locations derived from the impression imparted to a fine powder coating on the bat face, finding absolute differences of 6.4 ± 4.2 and 7.1 ± 4.4 mm in the transverse and longitudinal axes of the bat, respectively. Thus, an automated curve fitting methodology enables the accurate determination of cricket bat–ball impact characteristics for use in experimental investigations.
Bony Morphology of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Young Female Dancers and Single-Sport Athletes
Authors: Fraser Joana L. , Sugimoto Dai , Yen Yi-Meng , d’Hemecourt Pierre A. , Stracciolini Andrea
Published: August 2017

Background:

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a painful and limiting condition of the hip that is often seen in young athletes. Previous studies have reported a higher prevalence of this disorder in male athletes, but data on the structural morphology of adolescent and young adult female athletes, specifically those involved in dance, are lacking.

Purpose:

(1) To investigate the radiographic morphology of FAI deformities in adolescent and young adult female single-sport dance and nondance athletes and (2) to examine the differences in the radiographic findings between these 2 groups.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of 56 female single-sport athletes 10 to 21 years of age with a diagnosis of FAI within a single-sports medicine division of a pediatric academic medical center was performed. Acetabular index (AI), lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), crossover sign, and ischial spine sign were measured bilaterally on anteroposterior radiographs; alpha angle (AA) was measured on lateral films, and anterior center-edge angle (ACEA) was measured on false-profile films. Independent t tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare mean angle measurements between dance and nondance athletes. Dichotomized categorical variables and crossover and ischial spine signs were analyzed between dance and nondance athletes by applying a chi-square test. Statistical significance was set as P < .05 a priori.

Results:

Significant differences in angle measurements were noted. AA was significantly lower in the dancers compared with the nondance athlete group (49.5° ± 6.0° vs 53.9° ± 7.3°, P = .001). The LCEA and ACEA of dance athletes were significantly greater compared with nondance athletes (33.8° ± 6.7° vs 30.9° ± 5.8° [ P = .016] and 36.0° ± 8.1° vs 32.3° ± 7.0° [ P = .035], respectively). No significant difference in AI was seen between the 2 cohorts (5.0° ± 4.0° for dancers vs 5.9° ± 3.4° for nondancers, P = .195).

Conclusion:

Significant differences existed in the radiographic bony morphology of young female single-sport dance athletes compared with nondance athletes with FAI. In dance athletes, symptoms were seen in the setting of normal bony morphology.
Entrepreneurial Organization Building in the Emerging Economy
Authors: Natarajan Ganesh
Published: August 2017

Zensar Technologies is a significant success story of the India software services industry. In this article, Ganesh Natarajan who led the company as it’s Vice Chairman and CEO from 2001 to 2016 presents the exciting journey of the company. The article highlights the inflection points, the hurdles that the management team had to navigate and the unique attributes that made it a global success story. The article is derived from the Sage Publications book written by Ganesh Natarajan band Prameela Kalive titled ‘From Start-up to Global Success—the story of Zensar.’
Differential diagnosis of granulomatous lung disease: clues and pitfalls
Authors: Ohshimo Shinichiro , Guzman Josune , Costabel Ulrich , Bonella Francesco
Published: August 2017

Granulomatous lung diseases are a heterogeneous group of disorders that have a wide spectrum of pathologies with variable clinical manifestations and outcomes. Precise clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, pulmonary function testing, radiological imaging including high-resolution computed tomography and often histopathological assessment contribute to make a confident diagnosis of granulomatous lung diseases. Differential diagnosis is challenging, and includes both infectious (mycobacteria and fungi) and noninfectious lung diseases (sarcoidosis, necrotising sarcoid granulomatosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, hot tub lung, berylliosis, granulomatosis with polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, rheumatoid nodules, talc granulomatosis, Langerhans cell histiocytosis and bronchocentric granulomatosis). Bronchoalveolar lavage, endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration, transbronchial cryobiopsy, positron emission tomography and genetic evaluation are potential candidates to improve the diagnostic accuracy for granulomatous lung diseases. As granuloma alone is a nonspecific histopathological finding, the multidisciplinary approach is important for a confident diagnosis.
Metastasis-Free Survival Is a Strong Surrogate of Overall Survival in Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Xie Wanling , Regan Meredith M. , Buyse Marc , Halabi Susan , Kantoff Philip W. , Sartor Oliver , Soule Howard , Clarke Noel W. , Collette Laurence , Dignam James J. , Fizazi Karim , Paruleker Wendy R. , Sandler Howard M. , Sydes Matthew R. , Tombal Bertrand , Williams Scott G. , Sweeney Christopher J. ,   on behalf of the ICECaP Working Group
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Adjuvant therapy for intermediate-risk and high-risk localized prostate cancer decreases the number of deaths from this disease. Surrogates for overall survival (OS) could expedite the evaluation of new adjuvant therapies.

Methods

By June 2013, 102 completed or ongoing randomized trials were identified and individual patient data were collected from 28 trials with 28,905 patients. Disease-free survival (DFS) and metastasis-free survival (MFS) were determined for 21,140 patients from 24 trials and 12,712 patients from 19 trials, respectively. We evaluated the surrogacy of DFS and MFS for OS by using a two-stage meta-analytic validation model by determining the correlation of an intermediate clinical end point with OS and the correlation of treatment effects on both the intermediate clinical end point and OS.

Results

Trials enrolled patients from 1987 to 2011. After a median follow-up of 10 years, 45% of 21,140 men and 45% of 12,712 men experienced a DFS and MFS event, respectively. For DFS and MFS, 61% and 90% of the patients, respectively, were from radiation trials, and 63% and 66%, respectively, had high-risk disease. At the patient level, Kendall’s τ correlation with OS was 0.85 and 0.91 for DFS and MFS, respectively. At the trial level, R2 was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.78 to 0.90) and 0.83 (95% CI, 0.71 to 0.88) from weighted linear regression of 8-year OS rates versus 5-year DFS and MFS rates, respectively. Treatment effects—measured by log hazard ratios—for the surrogates and OS were well correlated ( R2, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.53 to 0.82] for DFS and 0.92 [95% CI, 0.81 to 0.95] for MFS).

Conclusion

MFS is a strong surrogate for OS for localized prostate cancer that is associated with a significant risk of death from prostate cancer.
Iron affects Ire1 clustering propensity and the amplitude of endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling
Authors: Cohen Nir , Breker Michal , Bakunts Anush , Pesek Kristina , Chas Ainara , Argemí Josepmaria , Orsi Andrea , Gal Lihi , Chuartzman Silvia , Wigelman Yoav , Jonas Felix , Walter Peter , Ernst Robert , Aragón Tomás , van Anken Eelco , Schuldiner Maya
Published: August 2017

The unfolded protein response (UPR) allows cells to adjust secretory pathway capacity according to need. Ire1, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress sensor and central activator of the UPR is conserved from the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to humans. Under ER stress conditions, Ire1 clusters into foci that enable optimal UPR activation. To discover factors that affect Ire1 clustering, we performed a high-content screen using a whole-genome yeast mutant library expressing Ire1–mCherry. We imaged the strains following UPR induction and found 154 strains that displayed alterations in Ire1 clustering. The hits were enriched for iron and heme effectors and binding proteins. By performing pharmacological depletion and repletion, we confirmed that iron (Fe3+) affects UPR activation in both yeast and human cells. We suggest that Ire1 clustering propensity depends on membrane composition, which is governed by heme-dependent biosynthesis of sterols. Our findings highlight the diverse cellular functions that feed into the UPR and emphasize the cross-talk between organelles required to concertedly maintain homeostasis.
Long axis twisting during locomotion of elongate fishes
Authors: Donatelli Cassandra M. , Summers A. P. , Tytell E. D.
Published: August 2017

Fish live in a complex world and must actively adapt their swimming behavior to a range of environments. Most studies of swimming kinematics focus on two-dimensional properties related to the bending wave that passes from head to tail. However, fish also twist their bodies in 3D around their longitudinal axis as the bending wave passes down the body. We measured and characterized this movement, which we call 'wobble', in six species of elongate fishes (Anoplarchus insignis, Xiphister mucosus, Lumpenus sagitta, Pholis laeta, Apodichthys flavidus, and Ronquilus jordani) from three different habitats (intertidal, nearshore, and subtidal) using custom video analysis software. Wobble and bending are synchronized, with a phase shift between the wobble wave and bending wave. We found that species from the same habitats swim in similar ways, even if they are more closely related to species from different habitats. In nearshore species, the tail wobbles the most but, in subtidal and intertidal species, the head wobbles more than or the same as the tail. We also wanted to understand the relationship between wobble and the passive mechanics of the fish bodies. Therefore, we measured torsional stiffness and modulus along the body and found that modulus increases from head to tail in all six species. Since wobble does not correlate with the passive properties of the body, it may play a different role in swimming behavior of fishes from different habitats.
Understanding biofilm in practice: a global survey of health professionals
Authors: Swanson T. , Wolcott R.D. , Wallis H. , Woodmansey E.J.
Published: August 2017

Objective:

The aim of this survey was to examine health professionals' views and practices relating to biofilm in chronic wounds.

Method:

A global online survey was conducted to assess the current understanding of biofilm and wound management practices. The survey consisted of 20 questions designed to evaluate health professional knowledge of biofilm, perception and understanding of biofilm behaviour, detection and diagnosis, and treatment. Respondents were classified as ‘specialists’ if wounds were their primary focus and they developed protocols and determined formularies. Respondents were classified as ‘generalists’ if wounds were part of multiple indications they treat and they were able to choose wound care products from a restricted list of products. The Pearson's chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to assess whether the responses were independent of the clinician role, health-care setting and country.

Results:

Overall, 3011 health professionals took part in the survey, of which 397 were excluded or disqualified. Of the remaining 2614 respondents, 1223 (46.8%) completed the entire survey. Although the majority of health professionals were aware of biofilm, knowledge gaps regarding its prevalence in chronic wounds were evident. In general, the majority indicated that they understood that biofilm is detrimental to wound healing. With the exception of wound stalling, there was a lack of consensus on other clinical signs in the detection and diagnosis of biofilm. Knowledge gaps were also evident over the treatment of biofilm and the efficacy of antimicrobial treatments, debridement and wound dressing.

Conclusion:

Our results show that though there is a broad recognition of biofilm and its possible role in chronic wounds, there is still a need to educate and increase knowledge on recognition and treatment of biofilm.
Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas exhibit antimicrobial properties against critical bacteria and yeast species
Authors: Wiegand C. , Fink S. , Hipler U-C , Beier O. , Horn K. , Pfuch A. , Schimanski A. , Grünler B.
Published: August 2017

Objective:

Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas (CAPPs) have been used to sterilise implant materials and other thermally unstable medical products and to modify chemical surfaces. This study investigates the antimicrobial effect of the gas and input power used to generate CAPPs on microorganisms causing skin infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Candida albicans and Malassezia pachydermatis.

Method:

Microorganisms were cultivated on Mueller Hinton 2 (MH2) agar plates. CAPP treatment was performed using the Plasma BLASTER MEF. To investigate the antimicrobial effects the following CAPP parameters were varied: the gas used, input power, as well as number of treatments and treatment time.

Results:

The antimicrobial efficacy of the CAPPs was found to increase with increasing input power and treatment time (or cycles). Furthermore the plasma generated from nitrogen is more effective than from air.

Conclusion:

The study showed that CAPPs demonstrate strong bactericidal and fungicidal properties in vitro. The selective application of CAPPs for the treatment of wound infections may offer a promising supplementary tool alongside current therapies.
Later life and public policies in time of crisis: Portugal, 2008–13
Authors: Gouveia Odília Maria Rocha , Schouten Maria Johanna , Matos Alice Delerue
Published: August 2017

This article presents an analysis of public policies implemented in Portugal between 2008 and 2013 affecting the older segments of the population, specifically those aged 50 years and over. Research on this period is relevant because it was a time of economic and financial crisis and concomitant changes in government policy. By making a content analysis of the laws published on the website of the Diário da República (Portuguese State Gazette) three periods could be distinguished: January 2008 to May 2010, which was dominated by an emancipatory logic reflecting respect for social rights; June 2010 to September 2012; and then October 2012 to December 2013, in which a logic of austerity prevailed, especially in the last period, with negative consequences for the quality of life of senior citizens.
AGENTES DE SOFTWARE APLICADO A GESTIÓN DE REDES BASADA EN WEB
Authors: Rubio Rodriguez Rolando , Barón Velandia Julio , Montenegro Marin Carlos Enrique
Published: August 2017

Los dispositivos que ofrecen acceso inalámbrico a servicios de red exigen un constante seguimiento por parte de profesionales en redes para garantizar su correcta operación, en este documento se presenta el diseño y desarrollo del conjunto de componentes que facilitan las funciones de monitoreo de dispositivos de red para garantizar al usuario una adecuada experiencia de navegación desde clientes inalámbricos. El estado del dispositivo que provee servicios de navegación es monitoreado mediante agentes que registran los eventos de interés y envían la información al módulo de gestión el cual permite la interacción mediante interfaces y protocolos Web, liberando al administrador de las tareas de revisión presencial de cada uno de los dispositivos instalados.
MODELO PARA UNA RED HIBRIDA ÓPTICA INALÁMBRICA
Authors: Quiroz Luis Alejandro , Moreno Néstor , Vera Nelson Enrique
Published: August 2017

Este artículo propone un modelo de red hibrida óptica - inalámbrica mediante la tecnología free space optics (FSO) para el desarrollo de una red de acceso de nueva generación, que represente una solución a los proveedores para diferenciación de servicios, ofrecimiento de ancho de banda bajo demanda y uso compartido de infraestructura con otros  proveedores de servicios. Se describe el principio de funcionamiento y las características técnicas de la tecnología FSO, se expone y analiza la arquitectura y el algoritmo de reconfiguración  propuesto.
ESTRATEGIA PARA EL PRONÓSTICO DEL RTO DE FAST TCP, MEDIANTE LÓGICA DIFUSA
Authors: Peña Carlos , Parra Octavio Salcedo , Hernández Rubio Sergio Enrique
Published: August 2017

Este artículo presenta el diseño y la simulación de una estrategia para el pronóstico del temporizador de retransmisión del algoritmo de control de la congestión FAST TCP. La estrategia utiliza la técnica de inteligencia computacional denominada lógica difusa. Los resultados de la simulación demuestran que a través de esta nueva forma de pronóstico del RTO, FAST TCP hace un mejor seguimiento a la situación real de congestión de la red, en el marco de una conexión entre dos extremos de la misma.
Carta de Presentación y Originalidad
Authors: Cañón Lara Paola Astrid
Published: August 2017

Carta de presentación
PROCESAMIENTO DE IMÁGENES PARA LA PLANEACIÓN DE RUTAS PARA ROBOTS MÓVILES BASADOS EN LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT
Authors: Torres Velásquez Jesús Alberto , Viáfara Avila Rafael Ricardo , Martínez Santa Fernando
Published: August 2017

El presente artículo contiene el procedimiento para implementar diferentes técnicas de procesamiento de  imágenes y principalmente el algoritmo de esqueletización con el objetivo de planificar rutas libres de obstáculos para robots móviles; mediante una fotografía tomada sobre un área determinada con los obstáculos y el robot (construido con el kit de robótica LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT). Se realiza el debido procesamiento a dicha imagen, para luego, de forma remota enviar una serie de órdenes vía Bluetooth desde un computador usando MATLAB; ordenes generadas por el algoritmo aplicado sobre la imagen ya procesada, con el fin de obtener el desplazamiento de la plataforma móvil a un punto de llegada determinado por el usuario.
Instrucciones para los Autores
Authors: Suarez Carolina
Published: August 2017

Instrucciones para los Autores
DISEÑO Y MODELADO DE UN INVERSOR MONOFÁSICO PARA CONEXIÓN A LA RED ELÉCTRICA A PARTIR DE PANELES FOTOVOLTAICOS
Authors: Trujillo Hernandez Cesar Leonardo , Patacón Samuel , Velez Hector
Published: August 2017

En este artículo se presenta el diseño y modelado de un inversor monofásico tipo puente que permite la conexión a la red eléctrica, de paneles fotovoltaicos. Se realizan los respectivos cálculos de la etapa de potencia en donde se establece el filtro a utilizar. Adicionalmente se obtiene el modelo de la etapa de potencia con el fin de establecer los lazos de control de corriente de salida y tensión de entrada con el fin de que el inversor opere correctamente al conectarse a la red eléctrica. Finalmente, el diseño se valida a través de simulaciones de la etapa de potencia junto a los lazos de control.
Vorausschauende Störgrößenaufschaltung für die Schwingungsdämpfung am Viertelfahrzeug
Authors: Strohm Johannes N. , Lohmann Boris
Published: August 2017

Dieser Beitrag zeigt eine neuartige Störgrößenaufschaltung und deren Anwendung zur Schwingungsdämpfung am Viertelfahrzeug. Dazu präsentieren wir zunächst die optimale vorausschauende Vorsteuerung. Diese basiert auf einem Impulsantwortmodell der Regelstrecke und kann analytisch berechnet werden. Der große Vorteil der Vorsteuerung liegt in der vorausschauenden Arbeitsweise und der einfachen Parametrierbarkeit über ein Gütemaß. Auf dieser Vorsteuerung aufbauend, wird eine Möglichkeit zum Entwurf einer Störgrößenaufschaltung dargestellt. Im zweiten Schritt wenden wir letztere zur Dämpfung der durch Straßenunebenheiten erregten Schwingungen am Viertelfahrzeug an. Dazu wird zunächst der Einfluss verschiedener Parameter auf die Leistungsfähigkeit der Aufschaltung untersucht. Abschließend zeigen wir, dass diese Störgrößenaufschaltung sowohl in der Simulation als auch im Versuch zu deutlich gedämpften Schwingungen führt.
Effect of TMS coil orientation on the spatial distribution of motor evoked potentials in an intrinsic hand muscle
Authors: Souza Victor Hugo , Vieira Taian Martins , Peres André Salles Cunha , Garcia Marco Antonio Cavalcanti , Vargas Claudia Domingues , Baffa Oswaldo
Published: August 2017

Previous reports on the relationship between coil orientation and amplitude of motor evoked potential (MEP) in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) did not consider the effect of electrode arrangement. Here we explore this open issue by investigating whether TMS coil orientation affects the amplitude distribution of MEPs recorded from the abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscle with a bi-dimensional grid of 61 electrodes. Moreover, we test whether conventional mono- and bipolar montages provide representative MEPs compared to those from the grid of electrodes. Our results show that MEPs with the greatest amplitudes were elicited for 45° and 90° coil orientations, i.e. perpendicular to the central sulcus, for all electrode montages. Stimulation with the coil oriented at 135° and 315°, i.e. parallel to the central sulcus, elicited the smallest MEP amplitudes. Additionally, changes in coil orientation did not affect the spatial distribution of MEPs over the muscle extent. It has been shown that conventional electrodes with detection volume encompassing the APB belly may detect representative MEPs for optimal coil orientations. In turn, non-optimal orientations were identified only with the grid of electrodes. High-density electromyography may therefore provide new insights into the effect of coil orientation on MEPs from the APB muscle.
L’énonciation, la praxis énonciative et le discours
Authors: Rabatel Alain
Published: August 2017

The present article reviews the concepts of enunciation in Greimas’s and other semioticians’ works; it examines the way in which these latter revisit Benveniste, the reorientations they propose or the aspects they leave aside, such as the distinction between speaker (as the source of an actualized utterance) and enunciator (as the source of a point of view in a propositional content composed of a modus and a dictum), distinction which, though not present in Benveniste’s work, has been developed afterwards. The article discusses: the link between enunciation and phenomenology, sensoriality and passions; the cognitive processes engaged in the subject’s confrontation to the world which have played a major role in the “post-Greimas” trend and especially in the case of an enunciative praxis that goes beyond narrativity. Nevertheless, this unquestionable enlargement of the notion of enunciation contradicts neither Greimas’s earlier concepts, nor a textual and essentially semiotic approach, due to the attention paid to the structures and to an overall analysis of the materiality of discourse.
Primary aldosteronism as a cause of secondary osteoporosis
Authors: Salcuni Antonio Stefano , Carnevale Vincenzo , Battista Claudia , Palmieri Serena , Eller-Vainicher Cristina , Guarnieri Vito , Pugliese Flavia , Guglielmi Giuseppe , Desina Gaetano , Minisola Salvatore , Chiodini Iacopo , Scillitani Alfredo
Published: August 2017

Objective

Patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) have a high prevalence of osteoporosis (OP) and fractures (Fx). We evaluated the presence of PA in patients admitted to our metabolic bone disease outpatient clinic.

Design

Study conducted on an in- and outpatient basis in a referral Italian endocrinology unit.

Methods

A total of 2632 patients were evaluated. 2310 were excluded because they were taking drugs known to affect bone or mineralocorticoids metabolism or were diagnosed to have a secondary cause of osteoporosis. The remaining 322 subjects (304 females, 18 males) took part in the study. Bone mineral density (BMD) and thoracic and lumbar spine vertebral morphometry were performed by dual X-ray absorptiometry. All patients were screened for PA with aldosterone-to-renin ratio. In those who had positive results, confirmatory tests were performed.

Results

Among 322 subjects, 213 were osteoporotics and 109 were not. PA was diagnosed in eleven out of 213 osteoporotic patients (5.2%) and one out of 109 non-osteoporotic subjects (0.9%,P = 0.066). PA was observed in the 26.1% of patients with the concomitant presence of osteoporosis, hypertension and hypercalciuria. Compared with patients without PA, patients with PA had mean values of urinary calcium excretion, 4.8 ± 2.5 mmol/day vs 7.6 ± 3.2 mmol/day,P < 0.001 and serum PTH levels, 5.4 pmol/L vs 7.3 pmol/L,P < 0.01, significantly higher.

Conclusions

PA should be considered among the causes of secondary OP.
High-Quality de Novo Genome Assembly of the Dekkera bruxellensis Yeast Using Nanopore MinION Sequencing
Authors: Fournier Téo , Gounot Jean-Sébastien , Freel Kelle , Cruaud Corinne , Lemainque Arnaud , Aury Jean-Marc , Wincker Patrick , Schacherer Joseph , Friedrich Anne
Published: August 2017

Genetic variation in natural populations represents the raw material for phenotypic diversity. Species-wide characterization of genetic variants is crucial to have a deeper insight into the genotype-phenotype relationship. With the advent of new sequencing strategies and more recently the release of long-read sequencing platforms, it is now possible to explore the genetic diversity of any nonmodel organisms, representing a fundamental resource for biological research. In the frame of population genomic surveys, a first step is to obtain the complete sequence and high-quality assembly of a reference genome. Here, we sequenced and assembled a reference genome of the nonconventional Dekkera bruxellensis yeast. While this species is a major cause of wine spoilage, it paradoxically contributes to the specific flavor profile of some Belgium beers. In addition, an extreme karyotype variability is observed across natural isolates, highlighting that D. bruxellensis genome is very dynamic. The whole genome of the D. bruxellensis UMY321 isolate was sequenced using a combination of Nanopore long-read and Illumina short-read sequencing data. We generated the most complete and contiguous de novo assembly of D. bruxellensis to date and obtained a first glimpse into the genomic variability within this species by comparing the sequences of several isolates. This genome sequence is therefore of high value for population genomic surveys and represents a reference to study genome dynamic in this yeast species.
Very Preterm Birth and Parents’ Quality of Life 27 Years Later
Authors: Wolke Dieter , Baumann Nicole , Busch Barbara , Bartmann Peter
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Parents of preterm children experience increased distress early in their children’s lives. Whether the quality of life of parents of preterm children is comparable to that of parents of term children by the time their offspring reach adulthood is unknown. What precursors in their offspring’s childhood predict parental quality of life?

METHODS:

A prospective whole-population study in Germany followed very preterm (VP) (<32 weeks gestation) or very low birth weight (VLBW) (<1500 g) (N = 250) and term-born individuals (N = 230) and their parents (VP or VLBW: N = 219; term: N = 227) from birth to adulthood. Parental quality of life was evaluated with the World Health Organization Quality of Life assessment and the Satisfaction with Life questionnaire when their offspring were adults (mean age 27.3 years, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 27.2 to 27.3). Childhood standard assessments of VP or VLBW and term offspring included neurosensory disability, academic achievement, mental health, and parent-child and peer relationships.

RESULTS:

Overall quality of life of parents of VP or VLBW adults was found to be comparable to parents of term individuals (P > .05). Parental quality of life was not predicted by their children being born VP or VLBW, experiencing disability, academic achievement, or the parent-child relationship in childhood but by their offspring’s mental health (B = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.22) and peer relationships (B = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.16) in childhood.

CONCLUSIONS:

As a testament to resilience, parents of VP or VLBW adults had quality of life comparable to parents of term adults. Support and interventions to improve mental health and peer relationships in all children are likely to improve parents’ quality of life.
Estimación de varianzas genéticas en ocho variedades criollas de maíz para el Bajío mexicano.
Authors: Muñoz Romero Luis Ángel , Navarro Guerrero Enrique , De la Rosa Ibarra Manuel , Pérez Romero Luis , Caamal Dzul Ángel Enrique
Published: August 2017

The aim of this work was to estimate the combinatory aptitude, genetic variance and heterosis of eight creole corn varieties. The research work was carried in Irapuato, Guanajuato, México, during 2008 and 2009. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used to evaluate the twenty-eight crosses under method 4 Griffing (1956). Each experimental plot included four rows five meters long with a separation of 0,75 m. The general combing ability and specific (ACG and ACE) were highly significant (P<0.01) for all traits except flowering days. The dominance variance (σ2D) was larger and more important than additive variance (σ2A) for most of the traits, indicating that non- additive genetic genes were important on the expression of those traits on crosses. It was observed that varieties P6 (creole #5), P7 (creole #2) and P8 (creole San Antonio) had larger variance effects (σ2ACE) for long cob, number of rows per cob, total cob number, and grain yield. Some outstanding crosses were identified for their high grain yield as well as heterosis, mainly those that included germoplasm of creole #5, #2 and San Antonio. According to the aforementioned we recommend to draw lines from the above populations and cross them to produce hybrids.
Incremento de la materia orgánica del suelo y rendimiento de mango en Luvisoles, Campeche, México
Authors: Medina Méndez Juan , Volke Haller Víctor , Galvis Spínola Arturo , Cortés Flores José Isabel , Santiago Cruz Ma. De Jesús
Published: August 2017

The objective of this study was to determinate the effect of increasing soil organic matter on fruit yield of mango trees under irrigated conditions, in Luvisols of Campeche State, Mexico. In every 48 commercial orchards and five sites under natural forest vegetation, soil samples were taken in order to determine physical and chemical properties. Furthermore, in orchards sites, leaf sampling was carried out, and data on orchard management practices and fruit yield also were registered. The collected data was analyzed using regression analysis. From soil organic matter content in continues sole maize cropping system under rainfed agriculture or irrigated vegetables, soil organic matter content in mango orchards increased from 3.26% in a period since 1 to 5 years to 5.66% after a period of 16 to 30 years. In soil under natural forest vegetation, organic matter content was 5.36%. Increasing soil organic matter content and tree age, fruit yield increased by 9.5 t/ha after 26 to 30 years under cultivation.