bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear Filtering of Sample Covariances for Ensemble-Based Data Assimilation. Part I: Optimality Criteria and Application to Variance Filtering and Covariance Localization
Authors: Ménétrier Benjamin , Montmerle Thibaut , Michel Yann , Berre Loïk
Published: January 2015

In data assimilation (DA) schemes for numerical weather prediction (NWP) systems, the estimation of forecast error covariances is a key point to get some flow dependency. As shown in previous studies, ensemble data assimilation methods are the most accurate for this task. However, their huge computational cost raises a strong limitation to the ensemble size. Consequently, covariances estimated with small ensembles are affected by random sampling errors. The aim of this study is to develop a theory of covariance filtering in order to remove most of the sampling noise while keeping the signal of interest and then to use it in the DA scheme of a real NWP system. This first part of a two-part study presents the theoretical aspects of such criteria for optimal filtering based on the merging of the theories of optimal linear filtering and of sample centered moments estimation. Its strength relies on the use of sample estimated quantities and filter output only. These criteria pave the way for new algorithms and interesting applications for NWP. Two of them are detailed here: spatial filtering of variances and covariance localization. Results obtained in an idealized 1D analytical framework are shown for illustration. Applications on real forecast error covariances deduced from ensembles at convective scale are discussed in a companion paper.
Discriminating Developing versus Nondeveloping Tropical Disturbances in the Western North Pacific through Decision Tree Analysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Fu Bing , Peng Melinda S. , Li Tim
Published: January 2015

This study investigates the classification of developing and nondeveloping tropical disturbances in the western North Pacific (WNP) through the C4.5 algorithm. A decision tree is built based on this algorithm and can be used as a tool to predict future tropical cyclone (TC) genesis events. The results show that the maximum 800-hPa relative vorticity, SST, precipitation rate, divergence averaged between 1000- and 500-hPa levels, and 300-hPa air temperature anomaly are the five most important variables for separating the developing and nondeveloping tropical disturbances. This algorithm also unravels the thresholds of the five variables (i.e., 4.2 × 10−5 s−1 for maximum 800-hPa relative vorticity, 28.2°C for SST, 0.1 mm h−1 for precipitation rate, −0.7 × 10−6 s−1 for vertically averaged convergence, and 0.5°C for 300-hPa air temperature anomaly). Six rules are derived from the decision tree. The classification accuracy of this decision tree is 81.7% for the 2004–10 cases. The hindcast accuracy for the 2011–13 dataset is 84.6%.
Heparin is Not Inferior to Bivalirudin in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention—Focusing on the Effect of Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitor Use
Authors: Huang Fang-Yang , Huang Bao-Tao , Peng Yong , Liu Wei , Zhao Zhen-Gang , Wang Peng-Ju , Zuo Zhi-Liang , Zhang Chen , Liao Yan-Biao , Luo Xiao-Lin , Meng Qing-Tao , Chen Chi , Huang Kai-Sen , Chai Hua , Li Qiao , Chen Mao , Zhu Ye
Published: January 2015

Our aim was to compare the efficacy and safety of bivalirudin (Biv) versus heparin (Hep) with or without similar usage rate of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs) during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The PubMed and EMbase were searched. Randomized trials comparing Biv versus Hep were eligible for inclusion. With imbalanced GPI use, Biv had significantly lower major bleeding (pooled risk ratio [RR], 0.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54-0.83) without difference in mortality (pooled RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.80-1.14). With comparable GPI use, no significant difference was observed in major bleeding (pooled RR, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.82-1.10) and mortality (pooled RR, 1.13; 95% CI, 0.85-1.50). With no GPI use, Biv was associated with numerically higher mortality (pooled RR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.83-1.65) without significant difference in major bleeding (pooled RR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.64-1.02). In conclusion, when comparing different anticoagulants during PCI, the effect of GPIs should not be underestimated. Heparin as such was found noninferior to Biv.
Transnasal Injection Laryngoplasty
Authors: Hamdan Abdul-Latif , Ziade Georges , Jaffal Hussein , Skaff Ghassan
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of transnasal fiber-optic injection laryngoplasty in the treatment of glottic insufficiency.

Methods:

Video recordings of 16 patients who underwent fiber-optic injection laryngoplasty for the treatment of glottic insufficiency were reviewed. Outcome measures included perceptual evaluation using the GRBAS (grading, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, straining) classification, laryngeal videostroboscopy, and frame-by-frame analysis to assess the extent, shape, and duration of glottic closure.

Results:

Nine patients were ultimately included in this study. Their mean age was 66.2 years, with 7 men and 2 women. The most common symptoms were dysphonia and aspiration, and the most common diagnosis was vocal fold paralysis. Patients underwent transnasal fiber-optic injection laryngoplasty with hyaluronic acid as a filling material (0.2-0.8 mL). The procedure was well tolerated by all patients, with improvement in the phonatory symptoms and aspiration in 66.66% and 50% of patients, respectively. There were significant decreases in the mean scores of all perceptual parameters ( P < .05 for all). All subjects had glottal gap preoperatively that was closed completely in 66.66% and reduced to <2 mm in 33.33%. The mean closed quotient significantly increased from 0.10 to 0.51 ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

Transnasal fiber-optic injection laryngoplasty is a safe procedure well tolerated by patients with good results.
Tackling ‘drug-related’ crime: Are there merits in diverting drug-misusing defendants to treatment? Findings from an Australian case study
Authors: McSweeney Tim , Hughes Caitlin E , Ritter Alison
Published: January 2015

This study sought to assess the impact of the pre-sentence Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) diversion program in New South Wales, Australia on offending in the 12 months following exposure to the intervention. The comparative design involved an experimental group of 1017 defendants who exited the MERIT program in 2008 and a comparison group of 1017 offenders identified as drug misusers following completion of a Corrective Services’ risk and needs assessment and sentencing in a non-MERIT New South Wales Local Court during this period. Both groups were selected from a larger pool of cases ( N = 3319) that were found to be significantly different on a number of key variables. Propensity score matching was used to deal with this non-equivalence. The outcome measures were: the rate, volume and seriousness of known re-offending. Recidivism risk factors were also examined for MERIT participants. There was no association between exposure to MERIT and reduced rates of reconviction at 12 months and group status did not make a significant contribution to the prediction of reconviction, when controlling for the influence of penalties imposed. The MERIT group had committed a larger number of offences during this period (including when adjustments were made for time at reduced risk due to imprisonment), but there were no differences in relation to changes in offence seriousness. Among MERIT participants, the factor with the largest effect on risk of recidivism was offence type. Completing the program had a significant protective effect against recidivism, while the number of prior court convictions increased this risk. These findings shed light on possible reforms to MERIT aimed at maximising the program’s crime prevention impact.
Institutional Constraints and Enablers
Authors: Gerde Virginia W. , Michaelson Christopher
Published: January 2015

This article is the guest editors’ introduction to the Special Topic Forum on Extreme Operating Environments appearing in Business & Society. The forum includes two articles accepted after review and revision. The two articles address the macro-level aspects of business’s role in society in terms of accessing resources and markets and in terms of being a change agent or enabler to promote a better or more stable local economy. The articles also provide case studies of businesses developing, getting access to resources and markets, and affecting the larger institutional environment despite great uncertainty and harsh operating environments where the traditional assumptions of stability and security are not available. This Special Topic Forum is published in cooperation with Business & Professional Ethics Journal which, working with the guest editors, has published two other articles that address the more micro-level aspects and the ethical dilemmas business may face in extreme operating environments.
“Fragmenting and becoming double”: Supplementary twins and abject bodies in Helen Oyeyemi’s The Icarus Girl
Authors: Ilott Sarah , Buckley Chloe
Published: January 2015

This article uses readings of the abject body and writing as supplement in Helen Oyeyemi’s novel, The Icarus Girl (2005) to argue against a critical trend that reads the postcolonial Bildungsroman as promising a positively transformed postcolonial identity. Through our reading of Oyeyemi’s novel, we suggest that locating the debates and tropes conventionally mobilized within postcolonial gothic in the former colonial centre complicates subject formations and constructions of alterity. The Icarus Girl weaves together a Western literary tradition of gothic with the postcolonial Bildungsroman and we suggest that the interaction of these forms produces a reading focused on the abject, both in terms of physical abjection mapped onto bodies and places, and in the way writing functions as abject supplement. When bodies, borders, and writing disintegrate, the reading of the novel becomes a difficult process, one not easily co-opted into a critical discourse that tends to value a psycho-symbolic reading of the postcolonial gothic Bildungsroman and to promise a positively transformed postcolonial identity. Accordingly, we argue that The Icarus Girl is unable to find comforting resolutions, disrupt oppositional structures, and create a utopian hybrid space or to bring about a unified sense of self, meaning that it resists a redemptive or cathartic ending. We draw upon Kristeva’s theories of the abject and Derrida’s notion of the supplement in order to establish how Oyeyemi’s novel resists the construction of a stable identity through its emphasis upon expulsion and disintegration. Unlike the majority of criticism on postcolonial gothic, which focuses on texts emanating from formerly colonized countries, this article considers what happens to postcolonial gothic when it is written within and about the former colonial centre. In The Icarus Girl the repercussions of the colonial period are experienced in the present day through experiences of racism, dislocation, and alienation within Britain.
Effect of processing parameters on the properties of polypropylene–sawdust composites
Authors: dos Santos Lucas Pereira , Flores-Sahagun Thais Sydenstricker , Satyanarayana Kestur G
Published: January 2015

Considering the boom in the market for wood plastic composite (WPC) products due to their relatively high specific strength properties, low maintenance costs, and wide range of applications, many authors have studied the performance of these composites prepared by reactive extrusion with different compatibilizers and peroxide types. This paper presents the density, chemical composition, and morphology of sawdust and the preparation and characterization of WPC with polypropylene by compression molding using different amounts of sawdust with and without coating with compatibilizer. Good-quality WPCs were obtained, as evident from almost identical experimental and theoretical density values of these composites. The WPCs prepared without compatibilizer coating exhibited low tensile properties. Irrespective of coating by different compatibilizers, the maximum tensile strength of all the WPCs decreased with increasing amount of sawdust. The WPCs prepared with uncoated sawdust fibers absorbed much more water than those prepared with compatibilizer-coated fibers, the latter showing increasing water intake with increasing amount of sawdust. These results are discussed in terms of melt-flow index, density differences, and adhesion between the sawdust and polypropylene.
Effect of porosity on electrochemical and mechanical properties of composite Li-ion anodes
Authors: Antartis Dimitrios , Dillon Shen , Chasiotis Ioannis
Published: January 2015

The electrochemical and mechanical performance of composite anodes for Li+ batteries is greatly affected by the matrix porosity. The role of porosity in the retention of the electrochemical capacity and mechanical durability was investigated for composite anodes with polyvinylidene fluoride/acetylene black matrix and graphite or Sn microscale particles. Graphite anodes with porosities between 40% and 50% demonstrated reliable mechanical performance after electrochemical cycling and consistent electrochemical capacity above 45% porosity cycled at C/5 rate. However, graphite anodes with porosities larger than 50% had negligible mechanical strength. The results of the mechanical and electrochemical studies identified an optimum porosity of ∼45% at which the graphite anodes had the highest initial elastic modulus and good strength and extensibility, which also agreed with the properties of the polyvinylidene fluoride/acetylene black matrix for the same porosity. The mechanical performance of Sn anodes, however, was quite inferior to that of graphite, which was largely due to the large volumetric expansion of the Sn particles in the first lithiation cycle.
Prediction of the viscoelastic response of filler network in highly nanofilled polymer composites
Authors: Kourki Hajir , Mortezaei Mehrzad , Navid Famili Mohammad Hossein
Published: January 2015

An accurate prediction of any process is the key to the control of that system. Modeling the rheological properties of nanocomposites would provide us a pattern for prediction of their properties as a function of process and material variables. In this study, the focus is to model and investigate the behavior of highly nanofilled systems, which is controlled by the filler–polymer and filler–filler interactions. In these systems, particles attract each other and form a network, which has a viscoelastic response to the applied stress or strain. Due to the filler–polymer interaction, polymer chains are adsorbed on the filler surface to create a secondary network, parallel with the filler–filler network. The third network in the system is the network of free polymer chains around the adsorbed ones. In this work, the behavior and contribution of these networks in the highly nanofilled systems are described. Furthermore, the relaxation time and the modulus of the filler network are estimated as a function of particle size and concentration. It is observed that the relaxation time and modulus of the filler network are increased with a reduction in particle size and an increase in particle concentration. For studying the parameters of the model, polymer adsorbed layer and available surface area of particles are estimated from the density of the nanocomposites.
Sudden death of a patient with polycystic kidneys due to acute inferior vena cava thrombosis
Authors: Tamburrini Riccardo , Ahmed Zubir , van der Walt Jon , Goldsmith David
Published: January 2015

A management algorithm for large renal cyst in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is lacking despite the potential to cause widespread medical and surgical complications. We report the case of a 37-year-old gentleman with ADPKD and large (>5 cm diameter) cysts who suffered sudden death due to autopsy-proven inferior vena cava and pulmonary arterial thrombosis. In this article, we discuss the possible pathophysiological factors at play in this catostrophic complication of ADPKD. We also review available literature to establish the prevalence of such a complication and also establish current thoughts and opinions as to the optimal management strategy for giant cysts in the context of ADPKD.
Undermining the Male Breadwinner Ideal? Understandings of Women’s Paid Work among Second-Generation Immigrants in Norway
Authors: Nadim Marjan
Published: January 2015

The traditional male breadwinner model, where men are responsible for economic provision while women are responsible for the home, is in decline across the western world as women are increasingly taking up paid employment. However, the meaning of breadwinning in the context of people’s everyday family lives has received little academic attention. Based on qualitative interviews, this article analyses how the adult children of Pakistani immigrants in Norway understand and justify women’s employment, with particular attention to how the economic aspect of women’s work is conceptualised. The study finds that women’s employment is accorded distinctively different meaning, and it is argued that the key distinctions are captured in two analytical dimensions: (1) the extent to which the economic contribution of women’s work is recognised; and (2) the ideal gender division of participation in paid work. The male breadwinner ideal is more explicitly challenged along the second dimension, than the first.
Creating Vignettes of Early Onset Dementia: An Exercise in Public Sociology
Authors: Jenkins Nicholas , Keyes Sarah , Strange Liz
Published: January 2015

Drawing on core principles of public sociology, this article discusses the creation of four theatrical vignettes about living with early onset dementia (symptoms of dementia pre-65). The vignettes were developed through an Image Theatre workshop, involving families living with early onset dementia. They were designed to capture key themes, issues and experiences that emerged from the group’s collective experience. While the content of the vignettes speaks to a range of key sociological debates (especially in relation to the lived experience of time, risk, social exclusion and stigma in dementia) the process of creating and using the vignettes represents the first empirical application of a (public) sociological approach to ‘person-centredness’ in dementia; which views persons as ‘dividual’ and selves as transactive. We conclude by advocating for a rich and diverse public sociology of dementia in the 21st century.
Illness Perceptions Among Adults at Risk for Diabetes
Authors: Strauss Shiela M. , Rosedale Mary T. , Kaur Navjot
Published: January 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine diabetes illness perceptions among a sample of at-risk adults according to specific characteristics that make them vulnerable to diabetes.

Methods

At-risk adults (N = 372) participated in a study investigating the potential to screen them for diabetes at a large urban dental college. Sociodemographic and individual-level diabetes risk-related characteristics, A1C measures, diabetes-related symptoms, diabetes knowledge, diabetes illness perceptions, and perceived causes of diabetes were collected and reported for the study sample; t tests were then used to determine whether there were statistically significant differences in each of 8 dimensions of diabetes illness perceptions according to the presence or absence of 6 diabetes risk factors.

Results

Average A1C values were 5.6% (38 mmol/mol), and 46% of the study sample had A1C values in the prediabetes or diabetes range. Participants had various diabetes knowledge gaps and misperceptions, and there were differences in dimensions of diabetes illness perceptions depending on specific diabetes-related risk factors.

Conclusions

In view of differences in the diabetes-related illness perceptions of persons at risk for diabetes, it is important for diabetes educators and other health care providers to personalize their diabetes-related education, management, and support to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of at-risk patients.
Long-Term Correlated Change Between Personality Traits and Perceived Social Support in Middle Adulthood
Authors: Allemand Mathias , Schaffhuser Kathrin , Martin Mike
Published: January 2015

This study investigated long-term correlated change between personality traits and perceived social support in middle adulthood. Two measurement occasions with an 8-year time interval from the Interdisciplinary Longitudinal Study on Adult Development (ILSE) were used. The sample consisted of 346 middle-aged adults (46-50 years at T1). Four different types of perceived social support were assessed. Personality traits were assessed with the NEO–Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). Longitudinal measurement invariance (MI) was established for both measures. The mean rank-order stabilities were .79 and .62 for personality traits and for perceived social support, respectively. The results demonstrated a mean-level increase for neuroticism and a decrease for extraversion and significant change variances for all constructs. The results of latent change models showed significant initial level correlations and correlated changes between personality traits and social support, implying that changes in these constructs show commonality. The results can expand our current thinking about correlated change in personality.
Creative Dance Improves Physical Fitness and Life Satisfaction in Older Women
Authors: Cruz-Ferreira Ana , Marmeleira José , Formigo Alexandra , Gomes Dulce , Fernandes Jorge
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of creative dance on physical fitness and life satisfaction in older women.

Methods:

A total of 57 women (65–80 years old) were randomized to either an experimental group or a control group. The experimental group participated in a supervised creative dance program for 24 weeks. Physical fitness (strength, aerobic endurance, flexibility, motor ability/dynamic balance, and body composition) and life satisfaction were assessed pre- and posttreatment (at 12 and 24 weeks) by the Senior Fitness Test and the Life Satisfaction scale, respectively.

Results:

After the intervention, the experimental group had better physical fitness and life satisfaction when compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

Creative dance has a positive effect in different dimensions of functioning and has the potential to contribute to healthy aging. This could be related to the integrated mobilization of physical, cognitive, and social skills promoted by creative dance.
Extraparenchymal Bile/Pancreatic Ducts and Duodenal Papillae
Authors: Vashisht Kapil , Nady Sherry L. , Engler Rita D. , Kelsch Brian K. , Lynk Susan N. , Cape Benjamin R. , Hoffmann Guenther , Meseck Emily K. , Johnson Robert C.
Published: January 2015

This review focuses on the anatomy, histologic preparation, and pathologic evaluation of extraparenchymal bile and pancreatic ducts (BPDs) and their openings at the duodenal papillae in the cynomolgus macaque ( Macaca fascicularis), the Beagle dog ( Canis familiaris), the Wistar Hanover rat ( Rattus norvegicus), and the CD1 mouse ( Mus musculus). In nonclinical safety assessment, intraparenchymal BPDs (with sections of liver and pancreas, respectively) are evaluated routinely. However, detailed evaluation of the extraparenchymal BPDs or the duodenal papillae is not included. In the context of nonclinical safety assessment studies, this review describes situations in which evaluation of extraparenchymal ductal structures and duodenal papillae may be useful in characterizing test article–related changes; elucidates anatomic similarities between human, macaque, and dog and notable differences in rats and mice; and consolidates the information required for the histopathologic evaluation of these tissues.
E-banking application in business companies – A case study of Serbia
Authors: Lecic-Cvetkovic Danica , Omerbegovic-Bijelovic Jasmina , Zaric Sanja , Janicic Radmila
Published: January 2015

This paper considers the attributes of Serbian companies in regard to their knowledge and application of e-banking, thus measuring their ability to do business with potential business partners. This, in turn, gives foreign partners the possibility to make business decisions based on reliable information about potential Serbian markets and companies. The primary hypothesis is that companies in Serbia are familiar with e-banking to the extent that enables them to use it in dealing with international companies. This paper presents the results of a survey of 104 companies in Serbia. It was found that 94 percent of companies use at least some form of e-banking in their operations. The results of this study are primarily intended to encourage researchers to focus their research toward the generation of business information that contributes to more reliable insights into the business environment. On the other hand, it presents business people the possibility and feasibility of thorough preparation for business connections, i.e. the supply of information on potential markets and channels of business operations to recover from the present economic crisis.
Outcomes of lung transplant candidates referred for co-management by palliative care: A retrospective case series
Authors: Colman Rebecca , Singer Lianne G , Barua Reeta , Downar James
Published: January 2015

Background:

Lung transplant candidates experience important symptoms, but they are rarely referred for palliative care consultation until they are deemed ineligible for transplant. Our lung transplant service has a high rate of palliative care referral for patients awaiting transplant.

Aim:

We reviewed the characteristics, interventions, and outcomes of lung transplant candidates referred for co-management by palliative care, to determine whether they safely received opioids and went on to transplantation.

Design and participants:

Retrospective review of lung transplant candidates referred to our palliative care consultation service between January 2010 and May 2012.

Results:

Of 308 lung transplant candidates, 64 (20.7%) were referred to palliative care. Most had interstitial lung disease and were referred for dyspnea and a rapidly deteriorating course. A total of 59 (92%) were prescribed opioids for dyspnea, 55/59 used the opioids more than once, and 38/59 were maintained on standing opioids. There were no episodes of clinically important opioid toxicity or respiratory depression, and there was a trend toward increased exertion during exercise sessions post-opioid versus pre-opioid (19.3 vs 17.0 kcal, respectively, p = 0.06). At last follow-up, 30 (47%) had been transplanted, 23 (36%) had died while on the wait-list, 9 (14%) had died after delisting, and 2 (3%) were still awaiting transplantation. Of the 30 patients who underwent lung transplantation, only 7 (23%) still required an opioid prescription 1 month post-discharge.

Conclusion:

In lung transplant candidates, palliative care and opioids in particular can be safely provided without compromising eligibility for transplantation. Palliative care should not be delayed until a patient is deemed ineligible for transplant.
Systematic re-evaluation of genes from candidate gene association studies in migraine using a large genome-wide association data set
Authors: de Vries Boukje , Anttila Verneri , Freilinger Tobias , Wessman Maija , Kaunisto Mari A , Kallela Mikko , Artto Ville , Vijfhuizen Lisanne S , Göbel Hartmut , Dichgans Martin , Kubisch Christian , Ferrari Michel D , Palotie Aarno , Terwindt Gisela M , van den Maagdenberg Arn MJM
Published: January 2015

Background

Before the genome-wide association (GWA) era, many hypothesis-driven candidate gene association studies were performed that tested whether DNA variants in genes that had been selected based on prior knowledge about migraine pathophysiology were associated with migraine. Most studies involved small sample sets without robust replication, thereby making the risk of false-positive findings high. Genome-wide marker data of thousands of migraine patients and controls from the International Headache Genetics Consortium provide a unique opportunity to re-evaluate key findings from candidate gene association studies (and other non-GWA genetic studies) in a much larger data set.

Methods

We selected 21 genes from published candidate gene association studies and six additional genes from other non-GWA genetic studies in migraine. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes, as well as in the regions 500 kb up- and downstream, were inspected in IHGC GWAS data from 5175 clinic-based migraine patients with and without aura and 13,972 controls.

Results

None of the SNPs in or near the 27 genes, including the SNPs that were previously found to be associated with migraine, reached the Bonferroni-corrected significance threshold; neither when analyzing all migraine patients together, nor when analyzing the migraine with and without aura patients or males and females separately.

Conclusion

The available migraine GWAS data provide no clear evidence for involvement of the previously reported most promising candidate genes in migraine.
The Influence of Joint Loading on Bone Marrow Lesions in the Knee
Authors: Beckwée David , Vaes Peter , Shahabpour Maryam , Muyldermans Ronald , Rommers Nikki , Bautmans Ivan
Published: January 2015

Background:

Bone marrow lesions (BMLs) are considered as predictors of pain, disability, and structural progression of knee osteoarthritis. The relationship between knee loading and BMLs is not yet completely understood.

Purpose:

To summarize the available evidence regarding the relationship between joint loading and the prevalence and progression of BMLs in the tibiofemoral joint.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis.

Methods:

Three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library) were systematically screened for studies encompassing BMLs and changes in knee loading. A methodological quality assessment was conducted, and a meta-analysis computing overall odds ratios (ORs) was performed where possible.

Results:

A total of 29 studies involving 7641 participants were included. Mechanical loading was categorized as body weight and composition, compartmental load, structural lesion, and physical activity. High compartmental loads and structural lesions increased the risk for BMLs (overall ORs ranging from 1.56 [95% CI, 1.13-2.15] to 8.2 [95% CI, 4.4-15.1]; P = .006). Body weight increased the risk for BMLs to a lesser extent (overall OR, 1.03; 95% CI, 1.01-1.05; P = .007). Contradictory results for the effect of physical activity on BMLs were found.

Conclusion:

Augmented compartmental loads and structural lesions increased the risk of the presence or progression of BMLs. Body weight increased the risk for BMLs to a lesser extent. Contradictory results for the effect of physical activity on BMLs may be explained by a dose-response relationship, knee alignment, and structural lesions.

Clinical Relevance:

It has been shown that unloading the knee temporarily may induce beneficial effects on osteoarthritis-related structural changes. Therefore, an early recognition of BMLs in the aging athlete’s knee may provide information to counter the onset and aggravation of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis by reducing the knee load.
Differences in the Microstructural Properties of the Anteromedial and Posterolateral Bundles of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament
Authors: Skelley Nathan W. , Castile Ryan M. , York Timothy E. , Gruev Viktor , Lake Spencer P. , Brophy Robert H.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Tissue properties of the anteromedial (AM) and posterolateral (PL) bundles of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) have not been previously characterized with real-time dynamic testing. The current study used a novel polarized light technique to measure the material and microstructural properties of the ACL.

Hypothesis:

The AM and PL bundles of the ACL have similar material and microstructural properties.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

The AM and PL bundles were isolated from 16 human cadaveric ACLs (11 male, 5 female; average age, 41 years [range, 24-53 years]). Three samples from each bundle were loaded in uniaxial tension, and a custom-built polarized light imaging camera was used to quantify collagen fiber alignment in real time. A bilinear curve fit was applied to the stress-strain data of a quasistatic ramp-to-failure to quantify the moduli in the toe and linear regions. Fiber alignment was quantified at zero strain, the transition point of the bilinear fit, and in the linear portion of the stress-strain curve by computing the degree of linear polarization (DoLP) and angle of polarization (AoP), which are measures of the strength and direction of collagen alignment, respectively. Data were compared using t tests.

Results:

The AM bundle exhibited significantly larger toe-region (AM 7.2 MPa vs PL 4.2 MPa; P < .001) and linear-region moduli (AM 27.0 MPa vs PL 16.1 MPa; P = .017) compared with the PL bundle. Average DoLP values were similar at low strain but were significantly larger (ie, more uniform alignment) for the AM bundle in the linear region of the stress-strain curve (AM 0.22 vs PL 0.19; P = .036) compared with the PL bundle. The standard deviation AoP values was larger for the PL bundle at both transition ( P = .041) and linear-region strain ( P = .014), indicating more disperse orientation.

Conclusion:

Material and microstructural properties of the AM and PL bundles of the ACL differ during loading. The AM bundle possessed higher tissue modulus and failure stress, as well as more uniform fiber alignment under load.

Clinical Relevance:

These insights into native ligament microstructure can be used to assess graft options for ACL reconstruction and optimize surgical reconstruction techniques.
Evaluating the toxic and beneficial effects of lichen extracts in normal and diabetic rats
Authors: Çolak Suat , Geyikoğlu Fatime , Bakır Tülay Özhan , Türkez Hasan , Aslan Ali
Published: January 2015

Lichens can be used as a novel bioresource for natural antioxidants. However, there is need for further investigations to validate the lichens used in medicinal remedies. In this study, the effects of Cetraria islandica and Pseudevernia furfuracae lichen species in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes were evaluated. Diabetic rats were treated with aqueous lichen extracts (250 and 500 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks starting at 72 h after STZ injection. On the 14th day, animals were anesthetized, and then metabolic and biochemical parameters were evaluated between control and treatment groups. Pancreatic histology and β-cell mass were examined by hematoxylin and eosin and insulin immunohistochemistry stainings. Our findings revealed that these lichen species could be used safely in this dose range. In addition, C. islandica extracts showed prominent results compared to the doses of P. furfuracae extract for antioxidant capacity. However, the protectivity of C. islandica extract was inadequate against diabetes-induced pancreatic damages via forming oxidative stress. In conclusion, the usage of C. islandica might serve for early intervening in the risk reduction of type 1 diabetes.
Orchiectomy attenuates oxidative stress induced by aluminum in rats
Authors: Contini María del Carmen , Millen Néstor , González Marcela , Benmelej Adriana , Fabro Ana , Mahieu Stella
Published: January 2015

The aim of this work was to study whether the increase in antioxidant defenses associated with orchiectomy may account for the reduced susceptibility to aluminum (Al) in male kidney and also to examine whether the reduced antioxidant defenses are associated with androgen levels in orchiectomized (ORX) rats treated with testosterone propionate (TP). Rats were divided into nine groups, namely, intact males (without treatment, treated with sodium lactate, and treated with Al), sham males, ORX males (without treatment, treated with sodium lactate, treated with TP, treated with Al, and treated with TP and Al). Al groups were chronically treated with aluminum lactate for 12 weeks (0.575 mg Al/100 g of body weight, intraperitoneally, three times per week). We reported that ORX rats treated with Al had significantly less lipid peroxidation and an increased level of reduced glutathione (GSH) and GSH/oxidized glutathione ratio in the kidney when compared with intact and TP-treated ORX rats. The activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase in ORX rats was much greater than in intact or TP-administered ORX rats. Castration reduced the glomerular alterations caused by Al as well as the number of necrotic tubular cells and nuclear abnormalities. However, we observed a slight alteration in brush border, dilation of proximal tubules, mononuclear infiltrates, and interstitial fibrosis. Castrated males treated with TP showed that this intervention cancels the protective effect of the ORX. This finding suggests that androgens contribute to the development of renal alterations and proteinuria in rats treated with Al. Our results showed that ORX rats are protected against the induction of oxidative stress by Al, but the morphological damage to the kidney tissue induced by the cation was only reduced. Male intact rats treated with Al had more severe glomerulosclerosis, tubular damage, and proteinuria than ORX rats.
In vitro mechanistic study of endosulfan-induced spermatogenic cell apoptosis in the mouse
Authors: Xu Ying , Wang Na , Shi Zhi-Xiong , Li Yan-Bo , Zhou Xian-Qing , Sun Zhi-Wei
Published: January 2015

To investigate the mechanisms of endosulfan-induced reproductive toxicity, the spermatogenic cell lines (GC-1 spg) of mice were treated with 0, 6, 12, and 24 μg/ml endosulfan for 24 h in vitro. The results showed that endosulfan induced apoptosis as well as oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Reactive oxygen species and damage of mitochondrial structure were considered as major factors to GC-1 spg cells apoptosis. We further examined the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in mitochondria pathway by Western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis as well as activities. The results showed that endosulfan significantly improved the expressions of cytochrome c and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein and increased the activities of caspases 9 and 3 as well as the downregulation of the expression of Bcl-2 in GC-1 spg cells. The results suggested that exposure to endosulfan might induce the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells via mitochondria-dependent pathway mediated by oxidative stress resulting in the damage of mitochondrial structure and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Review of the Target-Specific Oral Anticoagulants in Development for the Treatment and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Devabhakthuni Sandeep , Yoon Connie H. , Pincus Kathleen J.
Published: January 2015

Anticoagulation therapy is often indicated for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Despite advances in anticoagulant management with parenteral anticoagulants and vitamin K antagonists, limitations to their use still exists, leading to investigation of alternative anticoagulants such as factor Xa inhibitors and direct thrombin inhibitors. To date, 3 target-specific oral anticoagulants (TSOACs) are Food and Drug Administration approved; several other agents are currently in development to optimize VTE management and minimize bleeding risks. The objective of this systematic review article is to provide clinicians an overview of the clinical evidence on the investigational TSOACs for the treatment and prevention of VTE. Of the agents in development, edoxaban holds the most promise due to robust data supporting its clinical benefit with a similar bleeding risk to currently approved agents. Clinicians should understand the TSOACs under investigation, since differences in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may influence clinical decision making and agent selection for management of VTE. Currently, no direct comparisons between TSOACs have been conducted. Agents under investigation have yet to overcome the major limitations of the currently existing TSOACs. Further studies are necessary to clarify which TSOAC agent is best for management of VTE in clinical practice.
A new parameter identification methodology for the bogie rotational resistance test of a rail vehicle
Authors: Aizpun Miguel , Alonso Asier , Vinolas Jordi
Published: January 2015

A more widespread use of the dynamic simulation of rail vehicles would become possible if the validation of the model was secured and the model parameters were known to be accurate. This paper proposes an analytical methodology for the objective identification of parameter values used in modelling rail vehicles, using the results of a bogie rotational resistance test defined in the acceptance process of railway vehicles (EN 14363). This methodology also takes into account the variability of the measuring process by providing a probabilistic estimation of the identified parameters. The methodology is experimentally validated using test results obtained for an Intercity vehicle. Seven model parameters can be accurately estimated: longitudinal and lateral stiffness of the air-spring secondary suspension, damping and force–speed characteristics of the anti-yaw dampers, longitudinal and lateral stiffness of the emergency spring, and lateral/longitudinal friction coefficient of the emergency spring; they all show excellent correlation with the component tests.
The present and future of additive manufacturing in the aerospace sector: A review of important aspects
Authors: Uriondo Adrián , Esperon-Miguez Manuel , Perinpanayagam Suresh
Published: January 2015

This paper reviews recent improvements in additive manufacturing technologies, focusing on those which have the potential to produce and repair metal parts for the aerospace industry. Electron beam melting, selective laser melting and other metal deposition processes, such as wire and arc additive manufacturing, are presently regarded as the best candidates to achieve this challenge. For this purpose, it is crucial that these technologies are well characterised and modelled to predict the resultant microstructure and mechanical properties of the part. This paper presents the state of the art in additive manufacturing and material modelling. While these processes present many advantages to the aerospace industry in comparison with traditional manufacturing processes, airworthiness and air transport safety must be guaranteed. The impact of this regulatory framework on the implementation of additive manufacturing for repair and production of parts for the aerospace industry is presented.
‘War against our Children’: Stance and evaluation in #BringBackOurGirls campaign discourse on Twitter and Facebook
Authors: Chiluwa Innocent , Ifukor Presley
Published: January 2015

The #BringBackOurGirls social media campaign on Twitter and Facebook was not only a global campaign for the release of the Nigerian schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram, but also a campaign for the rights of female children and girls to formal education. This article applies the appraisal framework and (critical) discourse analysis to examine the discursive features of this campaign and the role of affective stance in the evaluation of social actors in the campaign discourse. Findings reveal that #BringBackOurGirls ( https://twitter.com/hashtag/BringBackOurGirls?src=hash ) campaign exhibits a great deal of affect at the level of vocabulary reflecting moods, feelings and emotional language in the representations of persons, groups and governments. Most of the evaluations reflect negative valence, which is often typical of public reactions to (social) media reports of crisis, or national disasters. The article argues that social media campaigns and activisms can be fruitful if they are followed up by practical offline actions; otherwise, they will end up as mere skacktivism. Some of the campaigners themselves argued that the campaign could not have been successful if the girls were not rescued.
Lycopene-rich tomato oleoresin modulates plasma adiponectin concentration and mRNA levels of adiponectin, SIRT1, and FoxO1 in adipose tissue of obese rats
Authors: Luvizotto RAM , Nascimento AF , Miranda NCM , Wang X-D , Ferreira ALA
Published: January 2015

Aim:

To investigate whether lycopene can modulate adiponectin levels and SIRT1 and FoxO1 gene expression in the adipose tissue of diet-induced obese rats.

Methods:

Male Wistar rats were first fed with hypercaloric diet (HD, n = 12) for 6 weeks, and afterward, these rats were randomly assigned to receive HD ( n = 6) or HD with lycopene-rich tomato oleoresin (equivalent to lycopene 10 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day, HD + L, n = 6) by gavage for additional 6 weeks. Plasma lycopene and adiponectin levels were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and immunoassay, respectively. The messenger RNA (mRNA) expressions of adiponectin, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), Forkhead box O 1 (FoxO1), fatty acid translocase/cluster of differentiation 36 (FAT/CD36), and PPARγ in adipose tissues were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Lycopene was detected in the plasma of rats in HD + L group but not in the HD group. Although both BW and adiposity were not different between the two groups, there was a significant increase in both plasma concentration and mRNA expression of adiponectin in the adipose tissue of the HD + L group. In addition, the lycopene supplementation upregulated mRNA expressions of SIRT1, FoxO1, and FAT/CD36 but downregulated PPARγ in adipose tissue of obese rats.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that lycopene, in the concentration used, is not toxic and also its health benefits in adipose tissue may play a role against obesity-related complications.
Community Norms, Procedural Justice, and the Public’s Perceptions of Police Legitimacy
Authors: Antrobus Emma , Bradford Ben , Murphy Kristina , Sargeant Elise
Published: January 2015

A significant body of research has demonstrated the importance of procedurally fair policing in fostering citizens’ feelings of obligation to obey the police. A handful of recent studies have begun to explore the role of community processes within this relationship. They show perceptions of police use of procedural justice, and their consequences can vary according to community context. The present study utilizes data collected within a randomized controlled trial of procedural justice in policing, the Queensland Community Engagement Trial (QCET). We find perceived community norms about obeying the police are strongly associated with individuals’ own feelings of obligation to obey police. Moreover, this relationship holds net of individual assessments of police. Second, procedurally just policing appears to have a greater effect on the obligation to obey police for those who believe others in their community feel less obligated to obey the police. Results demonstrate that one’s ties to the community can therefore moderate the associations between procedural justice and the obligation to obey police. The findings are interpreted within a social-psychological framework.