bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano-Sized Drug Delivery Systems: Development and Implication in Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Badrealam Khan Farheen , Owais Mohammad
Published: September 2015

Liver cancer results in enormous human toll worldwide. Over the years, various chemotherapeutic entities have been employed for treatment of advanced HCC; however, as of yet none embody attributes to improve overall survival. Following rapid advancement in nanotechnology, it is envisage that nanoscale systems may emerge as intriguing platforms to improve chemotherapeutic strategies against various cancers including liver cancer; with better insight in the understanding of pathophysiology of liver cancer and material science, the field of nanotechnology may bring newer hope to liver cancer treatment. Reckoning with these, we detailed the arsenal of nanoformulations that are in various stages of clinical development/ preclinical settings for the treatment of liver cancer together with providing a glimpse of the attributes of nanotechnology in revolutionizing the status of chemotherapeutic modalities.
Demographic Differences in Catheter Ablation After Hospital Presentation With Symptomatic Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kummer Benjamin R. , Bhave Prashant D. , Merkler Alexander E. , Gialdini Gino , Okin Peter M. , Kamel Hooman
Published: September 2015

Background

Catheter ablation is increasingly used for rhythm control in symptomatic atrial fibrillation (
AF
), but the demographic characteristics of patients undergoing this procedure are unclear.

Methods and Results

We used data on all admissions at nonfederal acute care hospitals in California, Florida, and New York to identify patients discharged with a primary diagnosis of
AF
between 2006 and 2011. Our primary outcome was readmission for catheter ablation of
AF
, identified using validated International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification procedure codes. Cox regression models were used to assess relationships between demographic characteristics and catheter ablation, adjusting for Elixhauser comorbidities. We identified 397 612 eligible patients. Of these, 16 717 (4.20%, 95%
CI
0.41 to 0.43) underwent ablation. These patients were significantly younger, more often male, more often white, and more often privately insured, with higher household incomes and lower rates of medical comorbidity. In Cox regression models, the likelihood of ablation was lower in women than men (hazard ratio [
HR
] 0.83; 95%
CI
0.80 to 0.86) despite higher rates of
AF
‐related rehospitalization (
HR
1.23; 95%
CI
1.21 to 1.24). Compared to whites, the likelihood of ablation was lower in Hispanics (
HR
0.60; 95%
CI
0.56 to 0.64) and blacks (
HR
0.68; 95%
CI
0.64 to 0.73), even though blacks had only a slightly lower likelihood of
AF
‐related rehospitalization (
HR
0.97; 95%
CI
0.94 to 0.99) and a higher likelihood of all‐cause hospitalization (
HR
1.38; 95%
CI
1.37 to 1.39). Essentially the same pattern existed in Hispanics.

Conclusions

We found differences in use of catheter ablation for symptomatic
AF
according to sex and race despite adjustment for available data on demographic characteristics and medical comorbidities.
Network analysis reveals cryptic seasonal patterns of association in Gould’s wattled bats (Chalinolobus gouldii) roosting in bat-boxes
Authors: Godinho Lisa N. , Lumsden Linda F. , Coulson Graeme , Griffiths Stephen R.
Published: September 2015

Tree-roosting bats are highly social mammals, which often form fission–fusion societies. However, extensive, fine scale data is required to detect and interpret these patterns. We investigated the social structure of Gould’s wattled bats,Chalinolobus gouldii, roosting in artificial roosts (bat-boxes) over a continuous 18-month period. Network analyses revealed non-random associations among individuals in the roosting population consistent with a temperate zone fission–fusion social structure. Females generally showed stronger associations with roost-mates than did males. Two distinct sub-groups within the larger roosting population were detected. There was also evidence of smaller subunits within these larger roosting groups in spring and summer, with broader mixing at other times of the year. The extensive roost occupancy data collected across all seasons was critical in defining this fine scale, and otherwise cryptic, social structure, and in particular indicating that associations observed during peak activity periods may not be maintained across the year.
STRUCTURE AND CHEMICAL CONTENTS OF MUCILAGE CELLS IN PSEUDOLARIX AND ABIES BARK
Authors: Jia Fengping , Luo Jiayan , Takahashi Ryosuke , Uehira Chie , Kitamura Shinichi , Kimura Satoshi , Kim Ung-Jin , Itoh Takao
Published: September 2015

Mucilage is extruded from the bark of Pseudolarix amabilis and Abies nephrolepis upon injury. The aim of this study was to characterize the structure and chemical contents of mucilage extruded from mucilage cells (MCs) in the bark of these species. A large number of MCs containing translucent or dark materials in their lumina were observed in the secondary phloem of P. amabilis and A. nephrolepis. The translucent or dark materials in MCs stained positive with ruthenium red and PAS, indicating the presence of polysaccharides. The average length and diameter of MC in P. amabilis were 1500 μm and 254 μm, respectively, and the corresponding values for A. nephrolepis were 419 μm and 166 μm. Chemical analysis of low molecular weight fractions prepared from mucilage by HPAEC-PAD showed sucrose, glucose and fructose peaks, and in addition galacturonic acid and fucose peaks. Furthermore, 1H NMR spectra for the high molecular weight fraction showed the signals characteristic of pectin. This demonstrates that the mucilage consists mainly of low molecular weight carbohydrates and high molecular weight polysaccharide pectin.
Zines at Work
Authors: Mortel Darlene Marie “Daya” E.
Published: September 2015

As an alternative media form, zines give voice to marginalized communities where the creators articulate ideologies and experiences often overlooked in mainstream society. This article examines Filipina/o diasporic identity construction through a visual and textual analysis of .45 Kaliber Proof, a zine created in the early 2000s by Anakbayan Seattle, a progressive Filipina/o American youth organization. Zines have become a counter-hegemonic space where politically-based Filipina/o diasporic identities are made visible. In analyzing the layouts, texts, and images of various issues, two overarching themes emerge in the zine: a reflection of the Filipina/o American community in the us and a connection between the history and conditions of the Philippines to the Filipina/o diaspora in the United States. These themes ultimately led to a retelling of the Filipina/o experience, transforming .45 Kaliber Proof into a tool to subvert the current hegemonic culture in the Philippines and the us.
Racial Recalibration
Authors: Rhee Margaret
Published: September 2015

Widely recognized as the first video artist, Nam June Paik’s artistic career from the 1960s onwards is often understood through his pioneering appropriation of technological developments such as the television and video. Paik foresaw not only the aesthetic potential of video, but also other emerging technologies, such as robotics. While his work in robotic art is less commonly analyzed, it sheds significant light on his position not only as a foremost artist of new media but also on discussions concerning his ethnic identity. This essay demonstrates how, in the 1964 creation of robot K-456 and tv Bra for Living Sculpture, the artist deployed the strategy of racial recalibration—a racial formation that occurs through aesthetic tinkering, hacking, and recreating with emergent technologies that re-wires racial knowledge of the Asian American as robot.
Three New Species of Campanulaceae from the Pan-Himalaya
Authors: HONG DE-YUAN
Published: September 2015

Three new species are described from the Pan-Himalaya, Asyneuma pakistanicum from Pakistan, and Campanula rotata and C. microphylloidea from Tibet, China. Asyneuma pakistanicum has its leaves sessile or subsessile, leaf blade 8–12 mm long, 4–6 mm broad, flowers solitary and stigma trifid, which makes it distinct from A. thomsonii. Campanula rotata is characteristic of rotate corolla, connivent anthers, solitary flowers, and narrow-elliptic to linear leaves. Campanula microphylloidea resembles C. cana, but differs from it in its leaves much smaller and sessile and flowers solitary, etc.
A new species of Sinningia (Gesneriaceae) and additional floristic data from Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Brazil
Authors: Araujo Andréa Onofre , Chautems Alain
Published: September 2015

The new species Sinningia minima (Gesneriaceae) from Serra dos Carajás (Pará, Brazil) is described and illustrated. It is readily distinguished from its congeners by its minute size, being smaller in all vegetative and fertile organs than any other Sinningia species. It is also the first member of this genus registered for the Pará State. New floristic data and an identification key to the Gesneriaceae from the Serra do Carajás are also provided.
Lectotypification of four names in Andrographis (Acanthaceae)
Authors: Gnanasekaran Gunadayalan , Murthy Garimella Venkata Suryanarayana
Published: September 2015

The genus Andrographis Wallich ex Nees von Esenbeck (1832: 116) is represented by 28 taxa in India (Karthikeyan et al. 2009), and distributed mainly in the southern region with 23 taxa endemic to the country (Gnanasekaran & Murthy 2012). During the present study on the systematics of Andrographis in India, a total of six names has already been lectotypified (Gnanasekaran & Murthy 2012, 2014, 2015, Gnanasekaran et al. 2014). In the present communication, the following four names, A. explicata (Clarke 1884: 504) Gamble (1924: 1049), A. lobelioides (Wallich ex Nees von Esenbeck 1832: 115) Wight (1850a: 191, t. 164-b [f. 11]), A. neesiana Wight (1850b: 8, t. 1561) and A. paniculata (Burman 1768: 9) Wallich ex Nees von Esenbeck (1832: 116) are lectotypified here to avoid any ambiguity in the application of these names. Lectotypes are selected after a thorough scrutiny of protologues, syntypes and in accordance with articles 9.2, and 9.14 and recommendation 9C.1 of ICN (McNeill et al. 2012). Digital images of designated specimens (Figs. 1–4) are provided.
A new species of the rare Neotropical genus Auloceromyia Lindner, 1969
(Diptera: Stratiomyidae) and the first record of the male of A. pedunculata Pimentel & Pujol-Luz, 2000
Authors: FACHIN DIEGO AGUILAR
Published: September 2015

A new species of the Neotropical genus Auloceromyia Lindner—A. pachypoda nov. sp.—is described and illustrated based on one male from Argentina and twelve females from Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. The male of A. pedunculata Pimentel & Pujol-Luz is described and illustrated for the first time, together with the first description of the female terminalia. A key to the known species of the genus is provided.
South African HIV/AIDS service providers’ perceptions of participatory decision making and empowerment: Exploring the role of power distance
Authors: Barney Robert J
Published: September 2015

Many social workers believe that concepts such as empowerment and participatory decision making are universally applicable across cultures. However, a failure to recognize the diversity that can occur across cultural groups may result in organizations choosing poor fitting empowerment strategies. In this qualitative study, the author explored how participatory decision making and empowerment are perceived among South African staff, where higher levels of power distance exist. Results of the study highlight perceptions of and barriers to participatory decision making and potential strategies that social workers might use to empower staff to participate in decision making in a culturally competent manner.
‘All quiet on the social work front’: Experiences of Zimbabwean day labourers in South Africa
Authors: Blaauw Phillip F , Schenck Catherina J , Pretorius Anna M , Schoeman Christiaan H
Published: September 2015

Migration, particularly when triggered by economic or political hardship, has significant psychological and socio-economic consequences for the individuals concerned. While an impressive amount of research has been conducted by social workers into migration in North America, Europe and Asia, the same cannot be said for Africa. The continent has high numbers of displaced people and refugees, yet no Africa-linked research on migration has been published by the social work profession. This article addresses this gap in the literature by focusing specifically on Zimbabwean day labourers in South Africa. Survey results reveal that these migrants face intense competition for scarce jobs, and thus economic uncertainty, and are often victimised. It is incumbent upon the social work profession to expose the vulnerable conditions in which day labourers have to operate, and to mobilise a coordinated response from relevant government and non-profit organisations in the interests of greater social justice and harmony.
Characterization and modeling of the polymerization-dependent moisture absorption behavior of an epoxy-carbon fiber-reinforced composite material
Authors: de Parscau du Plessix Basile , Jacquemin Frédéric , Lefébure Patrice , Le Corre Steven
Published: September 2015

The creation of defects (internal porosity) inside epoxy-based carbon fiber-reinforced composites during the curing process is well known to have a harmful impact on most of the mechanical properties of those materials. One of the main sources of void creation is the moisture absorption of the composite plies during the manufacturing process steps before the composite part cure. In order to get a better control of manufacturing, the moisture absorption behavior of a carbon-epoxy prepreg, which is submitted to a wet environment, is investigated. Moreover, the impact of the resin polymerization state on the water absorption behaviors of the plies will be highlighted. The moisture content is therefore measured as a function of time, temperature and relative humidity for uncured and for different partially polymerized materials. An original model was established in order to predict the moisture content in function of time, temperature, relative humidity and polymerization degree. As a major conclusion, it is demonstrated that the water coefficient of diffusion decreases when the polymerization degree increases.
Slc26a3/Dra and Slc26a6 in Murine Ameloblasts
Authors: Jalali R. , Zandieh-Doulabi B. , DenBesten P.K. , Seidler U. , Riederer B. , Wedenoja S. , Micha D. , Bronckers A.L.J.J.
Published: September 2015

Formation of apatite crystals during enamel development generates protons. To sustain mineral accretion, maturation ameloblasts need to buffer these protons. The presence of cytosolic carbonic anhydrases, the basolateral Na+ bicarbonate cotransporter Nbce1, and the basolateral anion exchanger Ae2a,b in maturation ameloblasts suggests that these cells secrete bicarbonates into the forming enamel, but it is unknown by which mechanism. Solute carrier (Slc) family 26A encodes different anion exchangers that exchange Cl–/HCO3–, including Slc26a3/Dra, Slc26a6/Pat-1, and Slc26a4/pendrin. Previously, we showed that pendrin is expressed in ameloblasts but is not critical for enamel formation. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that maturation ameloblasts express Dra and Slc26a6 to secrete bicarbonate into the enamel space in exchange for Cl–. Real-time polymerase chain reaction detected mRNA transcripts for Dra and Slc26a6 in mouse incisor enamel organs, and Western blotting confirmed their translation into protein. Both isoforms were immunolocalized in ameloblasts, principally at maturation stage. Mice with null mutation of either Dra or Slc26a6 had a normal dental or skeletal phenotype without changes in mineral density, as measured by micro–computed tomography. In enamel organs of Slc26a6-null mice, Dra and pendrin protein levels were both elevated by 52% and 55%, respectively. The amount of Slc26a6 protein was unchanged in enamel organs of Ae2a,b- and Cftr-null mice but reduced in Dra-null mice by 36%. Our data show that ameloblasts express Dra, pendrin, or Slc26a6 but each of these separately is not critical for formation of dental enamel. The data suggest that in ameloblasts, Slc26a isoforms can functionally compensate for one another.
Introduction to Serres on Transdisciplinarity
Authors: Mercier Lucie
Published: September 2015

Excerpted from an article on Leibniz first published in 1974 in Hermès III, la Traduction, Michel Serres’s ‘Transdisciplinarity as Relative Exteriority’ offers a synoptic view of Serres’s vision of the relationship between philosophy and the sciences. Serres charts four historical strategies by which philosophy has secured its theoretical control over the sciences, four versions of philosophical exteriority towards the scientific field. He contrasts this topography or philosophical ‘theatre’ of representation to Leibniz’s immanent relation to scientific discourse. A systematic whole without fixed metalanguage, the Leibnizian encyclopaedia constitutes, according to Serres, a truly transdisciplinary method.
They know!—Do they? A qualitative study of residents and relatives views on advance care planning, end-of-life care, and decision-making in nursing homes
Authors: Bollig Georg , Gjengedal Eva , Rosland Jan Henrik
Published: September 2015

Background:

Residents living in long-term care facilities are a vulnerable population. For many residents, a nursing home is their place of death. Palliative care and end-of-life decisions are important components of their care provision.

Aim:

To study the views of cognitively able residents and relatives on advance care planning, end-of-life care, and decision-making in nursing homes.

Design:

A qualitative study with in-depth interviews with nursing home residents and focus group interviews with relatives of nursing home residents. Analysis is based on interpretive description.

Setting/participants:

In total, 43 informants from nine nursing homes participated in the study (25 nursing home residents and 18 relatives). All included residents had capacity to provide informed consent and lived in long-term care.

Results:

The main findings of this study were the differing views about decision-making and advance care planning of residents and relatives. Residents do trust relatives and staff to make important decisions for them. The relatives are in contrast insecure about the residents’ wishes and experience decision-making as a burden. The majority of the residents had not participated in advance care planning. None of the residents stated challenges connected to end-of-life care or mentioned the wish for euthanasia.

Conclusion:

Although most residents seem to be satisfied with decision-making and end-of life care, there is a need for systematic advance care planning. Advance care planning could help to explore future wishes for care and ease decision-making for the relatives, physicians, and staff and should be offered to all cognitively able nursing homes residents.
The significance of Marx’s value for strategy theory: Competitive advantage and the issue of tautology within the resource-based view of the firm
Authors: Dassler Thoralf
Published: September 2015

Marxian thinking following the TSSI (temporal single system interpretation) of Marx’s work is applied to refute the allegation of a tautology in the resource-based view of the firm, paired with the provision of an explanation of how and why resources create value, where resources are synonymous with Marx’s categories of constant and variable capital. Refuting the allegation naturally leads to the Holy Grail of resource-based thinking: the question of what, conceptually, constitutes a firm’s competitive advantage within the industry context. This article achieves its objectives by tying the resource-based view into Marx’s theory of value.
Functional Outcomes and Health-Related Quality of Life After Surgical Repair of Full-Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears Using a Mini-Open Technique
Authors: Saraswat Manoj K. , Styles-Tripp Fiona , Beaupre Lauren A. , Luciak-Corea Charlene , Otto David , Lalani Aleem , Balyk Robert A.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Although good short-term and midterm outcomes are reported for mini-open rotator cuff repair, few prospective studies have investigated long-term results.

Hypothesis:

Function and health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes would be maintained 10 years after mini-open rotator cuff repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Patients with a confirmed full-thickness rotator cuff tear who underwent mini-open repair between April 1997 and July 2000 were evaluated preoperatively as well as 1 year and 10 years postoperatively for (1) pain, function, and HRQL using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) score; (2) active shoulder range of motion (ROM) using goniometry; and (3) satisfaction by an independent evaluator. Changes in function, HRQL, and ROM over time were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results:

A total of 84 patients were enrolled, of which 61 (73%) were men; the mean (±SD) age was 53.0 ± 9.9 years. At 10 years, 4 (5%) patients were deceased, and 4 (5%) had symptomatic retears. Fifty-nine (74%) patients were evaluated, composed of 43 (73%) men; 26 (44%) were younger than 60 years. Function and HRQL significantly improved over the course of follow-up ( P < .001), primarily within the first postoperative year. At 10 years, the mean ASES score was 90.4 ± 19.4, similar to the 1-year score of 91.1 ± 12.0 ( P = .83). The mean WORC score at 10 years was 88.7 ± 17.8, with no change from the 1-year score of 88.4 ± 13.6 ( P = .93). This relationship did not change after adjusting for age and tear size. Shoulder ROM was also maintained over 10 years. Flexion ROM improved in the first postoperative year, and this improvement was sustained at 10 years after surgery ( P ≥ .30). External rotation ROM was slower to improve postoperatively, and significant improvements were seen between 1 and 10 years ( P < .01). Fifty-three patients (90%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their results. Tear size, workers’ compensation board claimant status, sex, and smoking status did not influence HRQL or shoulder ROM ( P > .06).

Conclusion:

Postoperative improvements in function and HRQL after mini-open rotator cuff repair were retained at 10 years.
Free vibration analysis of partially connected parallel beams with elastically restrained ends
Authors: Mirzabeigy Alborz , Madoliat Reza
Published: September 2015

In the present paper, the problem of transverse free vibration of two parallel beams partially connected to each other by a Winkler-type elastic layer is investigated. Euler–Bernoulli beam hypothesis has been applied, and translational and rotational elastic springs in each end considered as support. The motion of the system is described by coupled, piece-wise differential equations. The differential transform method (DTM) is employed to derive natural frequencies and mode shapes. DTM is a semi-analytical approach based on Taylor expansion series which does not require any admissible functions and yields rapid convergence and computational stability. After validation of the DTM results with results reported by well-known references and finite elements solution, the influences of the inner layer connection length, boundary conditions, the coefficient of elastic inner layer and ratio of beam’s flexural rigidity on natural frequencies as well as influences of the inner layer connection length on mode shapes are discussed. This problem is treated for the first time, and results are completely new which candidate them to being considered for practical engineering applications.
Design point analysis of the turbofan-driven turboelectric distributed propulsion system with boundary layer ingestion
Authors: Liu Chengyuan , Valencia Esteban , Teng Jinfang
Published: September 2015

The performance benefits of boundary layer ingestion in the case of air vehicles powered by distributed propulsors have been documented and explored extensively by previous study. However, the increased inlet flow distortion and the system total weight would dramatically reduce the expected benefits. In this paper, a novel turboelectric distributed propulsion module on the N3-X airframe has been developed. It includes two direct-shaft-driven turbofans (each drives a free power turbine) and a propulsors array, and therefore both the direct-shaft-driven turbofan and the propulsors unit produce thrust. Secondly, a parametric and quasi two-dimensional study at component and at system level is carried out so that the effects of these two aerodynamic issues over the system performance can be assessed. The figure of merit in this study is the thrust-specific fuel consumption and the system parameters examined are: the thrust split between propulsors and engines, the capture height and the direct-shaft-driven turbofan parameters. Preliminary results found optimum configurations at around 60–90% thrust split ratio, when installation effects were neglected. The final value depends on the propulsor intake pressure loss and the bypass ratio of the propulsion system.
Analysis of the structural behaviour of colonic segments by inflation tests: Experimental activity and physio-mechanical model
Authors: Carniel Emanuele L , Mencattelli Margherita , Bonsignori Gabriella , Fontanella Chiara G , Frigo Alessandro , Rubini Alessandro , Stefanini Cesare , Natali Arturo N
Published: September 2015

A coupled experimental and computational approach is provided for the identification of the structural behaviour of gastrointestinal regions, accounting for both elastic and visco-elastic properties. The developed procedure is applied to characterize the mechanics of gastrointestinal samples from pig colons. Experimental data about the structural behaviour of colonic segments are provided by inflation tests. Different inflation processes are performed according to progressively increasing top pressure conditions. Each inflation test consists of an air in-flow, according to an almost constant increasing pressure rate, such as 3.5 mmHg/s, up to a prescribed top pressure, which is held constant for about 300 s to allow the development of creep phenomena. Different tests are interspersed by 600 s of rest to allow the recovery of the tissues’ mechanical condition. Data from structural tests are post-processed by a physio-mechanical model in order to identify the mechanical parameters that interpret both the non-linear elastic behaviour of the sample, as the instantaneous pressure–stretch trend, and the time-dependent response, as the stretch increase during the creep processes. The parameters are identified by minimizing the discrepancy between experimental and model results. Different sets of parameters are evaluated for different specimens from different pigs. A statistical analysis is performed to evaluate the distribution of the parameters and to assess the reliability of the experimental and computational activities.
Do Malaysian Horizontal Mergers and Acquisitions Create Value?
Authors: Aik Nai Chiek , Hassan Taufiq , Mohamad Shamsher
Published: September 2015

This article examines the value-added phenomenon of Malaysian horizontal merger and acquisition activities (M&A) in the long run for the period 1994–2010. In this regard, this article used economic value-added (EVA) approach and cost-efficiency approach (stochastic frontier analysis (SFA)) to investigate synergistic benefits. The findings suggest that bidder firms experience no significant improvement in operating and financial efficiencies in the long run. Specifically, the operating performance of bidder firms deteriorated after the merger exercise, whereas the target firms had no significant improvement in operating performance over the same period. In summary, the findings suggest no synergistic gains from horizontal mergers in Malaysia. These findings imply that the long-run performance of firms in the horizontal mergers or acquisitions is driven by other motives rather than synergistic gains.
Determinants of Bank Profitability in the Post-reform Period: Evidence from India
Authors: Seenaiah K  , Rath Badri Narayan , Samantaraya Amaresh
Published: September 2015

The present article explores the factors that influence the profitability of Indian banking sector in the post-reform period using the data from 1995 to 2012. The results indicate that operating profits, wage bills, non-performing assets and net interest margin affect the profitability of Indian banks, while the priority sector lending does not have any impact on bank profitability in India. Further, the net interest margin is found to be significantly reducing profitability. Hence, it is suggested that banking sector in India should focus on reducing its operational expenses.
Default Prediction Using Piotroski’s F-score
Authors: Agrawal Khushbu
Published: September 2015

This article is an attempt to explore the usefulness of a model that uses the Piotroski’s F-score and its individual components for predicting the risk of default for a sample of Indian firms. The study uses logistic regression as the prediction technique. The Piotroski’s F-score is found to be statistically significant in predicting defaults. Higher values of the score are associated with lower probability of default. Among the individual components of the score, change in leverage is found to be statistically significant in predicting defaults. Increases in leverage are associated with higher probability of default. The model using the individual components of the score is found to have better prediction accuracy as compared to the model using the aggregate score. The findings of the study hold important implications for investment and lending decisions. The study contributes to the existing literature on default prediction by making available yet another measure which has so far not been explicitly used for distress prediction.
Earnings Management and Financial Distress: Evidence from India
Authors: Agrawal Khushbu , Chatterjee Chanchal
Published: September 2015

This article makes an attempt to empirically examine the relationship between financial distress and earnings management with reference to selected Indian firms. Our sample consists of 150 financially distressed firms during the post-recession period from 2009 to 2014. The present study uses discretionary accruals (DA) as a proxy for earnings management. Multiple regression analysis has been used for this purpose. The study uses cross-sectional modified Jones model to estimate DA, a proxy for earnings management. Altman’s Z-score ( Z-score) and distance-to-default (DD) have been used as two alternative measures for financial distress. The study finds that less distressed firms are engaged in higher earnings management. Cash flow coverage (CFC) is found to have a significant negative relationship with earnings management implying that firms with higher CFC have lesser incentive to manage their earnings through DA. The findings are consistent with several prior studies. The findings of the study have important implications for lenders, investors and managers. Lenders and investors need to be wary of the fact that firms experiencing even low levels of distress might be more prone to concealing their true financial condition. This provides deeper insights into the reliability of accounting information in assessing the creditworthiness of a firm.
This Is What a Clinical Death Looks Like
Authors: Gillespie Patricia
Published: September 2015

Sickness, dying, and ageing are increasingly medicalized, focusing elder quality of life on interventions, that I argue, progressively strip autonomy, dignity, and privacy. For elders aged 70 plus years, personal autonomy, or the ability to “author” one’s circumstances, is poorly understood, and in clinical settings, often ethically vexatious. What matters to elders, as they approach end-of-life I argue, could be more meaningfully understood and supported via an experiential conception of autonomy. This autoethnographic case study, based in an Australian sub-acute geriatric rehabilitation hospital, explores what happens when the author’s 86-year-old mother, Marie, challenges clinical culture. Institutional barriers to explore a collaborative and empathic care practice, regarding sleeping arrangement, exercise, and nursing, resulted in Marie’s decision to die on her own terms—and highlights a need to expand institutional understandings of personal autonomy, the sanctity of life, and elder care beyond the pathological.
The Multifarious Hippocampal Functions of MicroRNA-137
Authors: Kos Aron , Aschrafi Armaz , Nadif Kasri Nael
Published: September 2015

MicroRNAs (miRs) have emerged as a powerful class of endogenous noncoding RNAs involved in posttranscriptional gene expression regulation. miR-137 has repeatedly been associated with schizophrenia and intellectual disability. Recent studies describe the mechanisms of miR-137 in mediating basic synaptic transmission and plasticity in the hippocampus. A picture is emerging in which miR-137 acts as a potent player in regulating glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the hippocampus by controlling the translation of functionally critical genes at spatially opposite ends of the synapse, contributing to the pathogenesis of cognitive impairments as seen in neurodevelopmental disorders.
Thermohydrodynamic analysis of foil journal bearings using differential quadrature method
Authors: Bagheri Maryam , Akbarzadeh Saleh , Tikani Reza , Raisivand Masoud
Published: September 2015

The journal foil bearings are used in applications where a light load and a high speed are applied. Based on the internal structure of the foil bearing, various generations of these bearings have been developed. In order to determine the load capacity of the bearing, Reynolds equation and the energy equation are simultaneously solved to have a thermohydrodynamic analysis. Generalized differential quadrature method is used to solve the partial differential equations. Effect of parameters such as load and speed on the temperature of the bearing, the maximum pressure, and the load capacity is investigated. Best weighting coefficients and points’ distribution are determined. Generalized differential quadrature method reduces the number of points of solution up to 80% and it also reduces the execution time. Published experimental and analytical data are used to validate the predicted results.
Contact force control in multibody pantograph/catenary systems
Authors: Pappalardo Carmine M , Patel Mohil D , Tinsley Brian , Shabana Ahmed A
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a new continuum-based pantograph/catenary model based on the absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) is proposed and used to develop an effective method to control the contact force which arises from the pantograph/catenary interaction. In the proposed new model, only one ANCF gradient vector is used in the formulation of the pantograph/catenary contact conditions, thereby allowing for using the proposed approach for both fully parameterized and gradient-deficient ANCF finite elements. The proposed contact formulation can also be considered as a more general sliding joint formulation that allows for the use of the more efficient gradient-deficient ANCF finite elements in modeling very flexible cables. A three-dimensional multibody system (MBS) model of a pantograph mounted on a train is developed using a nonlinear augmented MBS formulation. In order to take into account the catenary large deformation, ANCF finite elements are used. The contact between the pantograph and the catenary system is ensured using a sliding joint constraint whereas the contact between the rail vehicle wheels and the train track is modelled using an elastic contact formulation. In addition to the use of the new MBS approach to model the pantograph/catenary interaction, the contact force between the pantograph and the catenary is computed using a simpler lumped parameter model which describes the pan-head and the plunger subsystem dynamics. In order to reduce the standard deviation of the contact force without affecting its mean value, a control actuator is used between the pan-head and the plunger. To this end, three types of control laws for the control action are designed to improve the contact quality both in the transient phase and in the steady state phase of the pantograph/catenary interaction. The first control law proposed features a feedback structure whereas the second and the third control strategies employ a feedback plus feed-forward architecture. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, the results of a set of numerical simulations with and without the controllers are presented.
Flashboiling-induced targeting changes in gasoline direct injection sprays
Authors: Krämer Martin , Kull Eberhard , Wensing Michael
Published: September 2015

By definition, flashboiling is referred to as superheated injections. The sudden occurrence of boiling inside the fuel can change the spray structure dramatically. Up to 99% of all injection processes during the New European Driving Cycle and 95% during ‘Real Driving Emissions’ tests are, with respect to mid-range cars, in a state of thermodynamic non-equilibrium below the specific vapor pressure of gasoline. Considering this fact, the scientific question is not the appearance of flashboiling during the operation of stoichiometric homogeneous charge direct injection gasoline engines but the intensity of occurring spray processes and their influence on nominal spray designs. As a consequence of induced targeting changes, the positive influence of flashboiling on the droplet size distribution and the penetration depth can be counteracted. As main driving factors for targeting changes, jet-to-jet interactions can be identified. By applying appropriate nozzle design features, the potential of flashboiling can be exploited and the targeting changes of the nominal spray designs, considered negatively, are avoided mostly. This work focuses on flashboiling-induced targeting changes, the so-called phenomenon of “spray collapse”: its root cause, development and avoidance.
Domiciliary tracheostomy long-term ventilation for children with neuromuscular disease: A framework for ethical decision-making
Authors: Fraser James , Huxtable Richard , Henderson John
Published: September 2015

Decisions about long-term ventilation in children can be clinically contentious and ethically challenging. In this article, the relevant legal, professional and moral principles inherent in such cases are explored. We commend the central importance of deliberation in the assessment of best interests, and propose a practical framework to assist the parent–clinical team to reach decisions in as transparent and equitable a manner as possible.
Early experience with a novel self-sealing nanofabric vascular graft for early hemodialysis access
Authors: Yilmaz Seyhan
Published: September 2015

Aim

To report initial experience regarding the use of novel self-sealing electrospun nanofabric graft.

Material and methods

A total of 21 patients aged between 22 and 64 (male:female ratio = 11:10) underwent AVflo vascular access graft implantation to forearm. Information for patency at 6 and 12 months after the operation was obtained. Cannulation for hemodialysis was allowed 8 h after the operation, as needed.

Results

Cannulation was performed before 12th hour of implantation in two patients, between 12th and 24th postoperative hours in 10 patients and between 12th and 24th postoperative hours in the remaining nine patients. Primary patency was 17/21 (80.9%) at 6th month and 15/21 (71.4%) at 12th month. Secondary patency was 19/21 (90.4%) at sixth month and 17/21 (80.9%) at 12th month.

Conclusion

AVflo self-sealing graft allows for early cannulation after implantation and thus may potentially eliminate the need for central venous catheters in selected patients.
Preliminary Results of Primary Gastrocnemius-Soleus Recession for Midfoot Charcot Arthropathy
Authors: Laborde J. Monroe , Philbin Terrence M. , Chandler Philip J. , Daigre Justin
Published: September 2015

Background. Treatment of Charcot arthopathy of the foot can be challenging. The goal of this investigation was to determine whether primary gastrocnemius-soleus recession could decrease rate of new ulcers, progression of deformity, and amputation in patients with Charcot arthropathy of the midfoot. Methods. A retrospective chart review revealed 28 feet in 24 diabetic patients with radiographic evidence of Charcot arthropathy of the midfoot. They were treated with primary gastrocnemius-soleus recession. Eleven feet in 11 patients had concurrent plantar midfoot ulcers. Three feet in 3 patients were lost to follow-up. Twenty-five feet in 21 patients were followed for an average of 37 months postoperatively (range = 18-79). Results. A favorable outcome was defined as healing of existing ulcers, no new ulcers, no obvious progression of deformity, and no amputation. Favorable outcomes were obtained in 22 of 25 feet (18 of 21 patients). Only one patient had a persistent ulcer after gastrocnemius-soleus recession. The other 10 patients with preexisting ulcers healed. Deformity of midfoot progressed in one patient, leading ultimately to transtibial amputation. Another patient developed a knee joint infection and had a transfemoral amputation at another institution. Discussion. These preliminary data suggest that primary gastrocnemius-soleus recession is followed by a much lower rate of persistent, recurrent, and new ulceration than previously reported studies. Gastrocnemius-soleus recession seems to aid in the treatment of Charcot arthropathy of the midfoot.

Levels of Evidence: Level IV
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Erickson Brandon J. , Harris Joshua D. , Chalmers Peter N. , Bach Bernard R. , Verma Nikhil N. , Bush-Joseph Charles A. , Romeo Anthony A.
Published: September 2015

Context:

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries lead to pain and loss of performance in the thrower’s elbow. Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) is a reliable treatment option for the symptomatic, deficient UCL. Injury to the UCL usually occurs because of chronic accumulation of microtrauma, although acute ruptures occur and an acute-on-chronic presentation is also common.

Evidence Acquisition:

Computerized databases, references from pertinent articles, and research institutions were searched for all studies using the search terms ulnar collateral ligament from 1970 until 2015.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Results:

All studies reporting outcomes for UCLR are level 4. Most modern fixation methodologies appear to be biomechanically and clinically equivalent. Viable graft choices include ipsilateral palmaris longus tendon autograft, gracilis or semitendinosus autograft, and allograft. Clinical studies report excellent outcomes of UCLR for both recreational and elite level athletes with regard to return to sport and postoperative performance. Complications, although rare, include graft rerupture or attenuation, ulnar nerve symptoms, stiffness, pain, and/or weakness leading to decreased performance.

Conclusion:

Injuries to the UCL have become commonplace among pitchers. Nonoperative treatment should be attempted, but the limited studies have not shown promising results. Operative treatment can be performed with several techniques, with retrospective studies showing promising results. Complications include ulnar neuropathy as well as failure to return to sport. Detailed preoperative planning, meticulous surgical technique, and a comprehensive rehabilitation program are essential components to achieving a satisfactory result.
Reimagining Humanity’s Identity
Authors: Stein Zachary , Gafni Marc
Published: September 2015

Foreshadowing arguments from the forthcoming book, Towards a New Politics of Evolutionary Love, this article suggests that humanity is in the throws of a species-wide identity crisis, precipitated by a broadening awareness of our impending self-inflicted extinction. This growing awareness that humanity is responsible for its own fate and the fate of the planet is referred to as the second shock of existence. The second shock has spawned a great deal of discussion about the need for revolutions in technological, economic, and ecological infrastructures, yet this focus on exteriors addresses only half the picture. Comparable revolutions of our interiors must also take place—radical transformations in the very structure of our consciousness and species-wide self-understanding. This is a call for attending to the interior dimensions of the current global crises, recommending in the strongest possible terms that tremendous energy and resources be re-channeled into planning for the vast educational reconfigurations facing humanity in the coming decades.
Evidence for Mental Health Occupational Therapy
Authors: Hitch Danielle , Pépin Geneviève , Stagnitti Karen
Published: September 2015

This article reports on the evidence for mental health occupational therapy in peer-reviewed journals from 2000 to 2013. Descriptive and inductive methods were used to address this question, with evidence from CINAHL, OTDBase, PSYCInfo, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar® included. Many articles ( n = 1,747) were found that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 47 different methods were used to develop evidence for mental health occupational therapy, and evidence appeared in 300 separate peer-reviewed journals. It takes on average 7 months for an article to progress from submission to acceptance, and a further 7 months to progress from acceptance to publication. More than 95% of articles published between 2000 and 2002 were cited at least once in the following decade, and around 70% of these citations were recorded in non-occupational therapy journals. The current evidence base for mental health occupational therapy is both substantial and diverse.
For the Love of Sport
Authors: Ruihley Brody J. , Pate Joshua R.
Published: September 2015

Lovemarks are brands and products that have high levels of love and respect and evoke a loyalty beyond reason response from consumers. These are products and brands that consumers are devoted and emotionally connected to with disregard for competitors, price change, or controversy. In the world of sport, loyalty beyond reason is common and seemingly required with many fan bases. In addition, athletes of all skill level are loyal to sporting goods and brands. The purpose of this exploratory research was to examine the relationship between Lovemarks and the world of sport. Outcomes of this research aim to assist sport managers and communication specialists in (a) breaking through advertising clutter, (b) recognizing and utilizing fan emotion for good, and (c) segmenting advertising and marketing campaigns into attainable subgroups. Utilizing a content analysis to analyze 668 open-ended nominations of sport-related products, brands, teams, venues, and people to Lovemarks.com , researchers uncovered themes and top-coded categories of love and respect. Practical and theoretical application and implications are discussed.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of as-extruded AZ80–xSn magnesium alloys
Authors: Jiang L. Y. , Zhang D. F. , Fan X. W. , Guo F. , Xue H. S. , Pan F. S.
Published: September 2015

The effect of 0–2 wt-% Sn addition on AZ80 magnesium alloys after 350°C extrusion has been studied by analysing microstructure and mechanical properties. The results indicated that dynamically recrystallised grains were fine and homogeneous with less than 1 wt-% Sn addition. In AZ80–0.5Sn alloy, a large number of Mg17Al12 precipitated phases formed in grains and at grain boundaries during extrusion process. With more than 1 wt-% Sn addition, the size of dynamically recrystallised grains increased and the number of Mg17Al12 phases decreased. The strength of as-extruded AZ80–0.5Sn alloy enhanced largely as compared with that of the as-extruded AZ80 alloy. AZ80–0.5Sn alloy had the outstanding tensile and compressive properties.