bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substance Use and Professional Identity
Authors: Kiepek Niki , Beagan Brenda
Published: January 2018

Processes of professional socialization influence types of substances used, patterns of use, and estimation of normalization. This project explores psychoactive substance use among professionals and students in professional programs in Canada, rationales for use, strategies to manage use and potential consequences, and factors within professional education and culture that influence decisions about use. The intent of this study is to uncover social processes through which professional contexts influence substance use. The researchers sought to explore how professionals and professional students described their own decision-making about substance use and their perceptions of professional influences. The mixed methods pilot study involved ecological momentary assessment (EMA), using an app designed for the study, and qualitative interviews. Participants completed a brief survey on the app each time they used a substance during a 4-week period, reporting what substance was used, how much, where, who with, and anticipated or delayed effects. Thirty-four participants were involved in the EMA component, 20 of whom engaged in interviews. The findings suggest a certain amount of substance use is expected, accepted, and even promoted in professional fields. Thematic analysis revealed novel understandings about (i) deliberate decisions, (ii) disclosure and use, (iii) stigmatized substance use, (iv) normative substance use, and (v) the professional context. This study demonstrates potential advantages of undertaking research to explore substance use, as distinct from substance abuse, problematic use, dependence, or addiction. Conceptualizing substance use more broadly can help to identify factors that both encourage use (e.g., performance demands, social norms) and constrain use (e.g., responsibility, role modeling). This can expand approaches to address substance use that look beyond the individual to social and institutional contexts, acknowledging that responsibility is a collective process.
“This Independent Fight We Are Making Is Local”: The Election of 1920 and Electoral Politics in Black Baltimore
Authors: Doster Dennis A.
Published: January 2018

In 1920, William Ashbie Hawkins, an esteemed lawyer and veteran of the struggle for civil rights, became the first African American to run for the U.S. Senate in Maryland. Hawkins’s independent campaign reflected a growing political insurgency among African Americans in the local Republican Party which built upon a longer tradition of independent political action with roots in the last two decades of the nineteenth century. For black Baltimoreans, this movement was part of a plan to force white Republicans to acquiesce to black demands revealing fluidity in political activity on the local level. Although African Americans may have identified and registered as Republicans, party affiliation did not prevent them from building and sustaining independent political movements on the local level to advance a civil rights agenda.
Coverage Changes and Earnings Forecast Accuracy
Authors: Cheong Foong Soon , Lee Changhee , Palmon Dan
Published: January 2018

We examine the effect on earnings forecast accuracy when financial analysts add or drop coverage. We find that the accuracy of analysts’ first forecast for a firm (newly added coverage) is lower relative to their peers. In addition, the accuracy of their last forecast (just before coverage is dropped) is lower relative to their peers. Further analysis shows that our results are not driven by the rookie analysts (analysts with less than 1-year experience) or retiring analysts (i.e., analysts who are within their final year before retiring).
Information security: Listening to the perspective of organisational insiders
Authors: Choi SeEun , Martins Jorge Tiago , Bernik Igor
Published: January 2018

Aligned with the strategy-as-practice research tradition, this article investigates how organisational insiders understand and perceive their surrounding information security practices, how they interpret them, and how they turn such interpretations into strategic actions. The study takes a qualitative case study approach, and participants are employees at the Research & Development department of a multinational original brand manufacturer. The article makes an important contribution to organisational information security management. It addresses the behaviour of organisational insiders – a group whose role in the prevention, response and mitigation of information security incidents is critical. The article identifies a set of organisational insiders’ perceived components of effective information security practices (organisational mission statement; common understanding of information security; awareness of threats; knowledge of information security incidents, routines and policy; relationships between employees; circulation of stories; role of punishment provisions; and training), based on which more successful information security strategies can be developed.
Algebra and the art of war
Authors: Jarrett Joseph
Published: January 2018

In his Tamburlaine plays, Marlowe broached a difficulty of dramaturgy: how can an acting company of a dozen men convey to their audience the scale of military battles involving thousands? Here, I argue that algebra provided Marlowe his solution. I reconsider the numbers critics have noticed are ubiquitous throughout Tamburlaine 1 and 2 in terms of their algebraic functions and their role in effecting an algebraic stage. My contention is that Marlowe utilized algebra to create a unique aesthetic of warfare, in which the enormity of battle could be played out imaginatively within the small space of the Elizabethan theatre.
Coined and counterfeit language in Renaissance England
Authors: Ballentine Brian Cooper
Published: January 2018

To describe imported and new words in the rapidly changing English vernacular, Renaissance writers rely upon metaphors that emphasize similarities between linguistic exchange and features of the economy, like coining, borrowing, and counterfeiting. Concerns surrounding the stability of the early modern British economy provided analogies that could be readily applied to concerns about the legitimacy of the vernacular. Like the unstable and inflationary British economy that serves as the backdrop of early modern discussions of linguistic economies, foreign and Latinate terms were implicated in excess, uncertain value, and fraudulence committed against society at large.
United Nations electoral assistance: More than a fig leaf?
Authors: Lührmann Anna
Published: January 2018

Between 2007 and 2014 the United Nations (UN) assisted more than one-third of all national elections worldwide. Its experts routinely provide substantial technical advice on election management, logistical support such as the procurement of ballot papers and financial assistance. However, it remains doubtful if, and under which conditions, such assistance contributes to free and fair elections or has a positive long-term impact on democratization. This study assesses the impact of UN electoral assistance (UNEA) in Sudan, Nigeria and Libya. It finds that such assistance contributed to election quality in the presence of regime elites prioritizing electoral credibility in Nigeria (2011) and Libya (2012). In Nigeria, it seems plausible that UNEA had a medium-term impact on democratization. However, if regime elites undermine electoral freedom and fairness – as in Sudan (2010) – such positive effects are unlikely. Furthermore, in such contexts, the involvement of the UN may legitimize authoritarian practices.
Experiencing offender supervision in Europe
Authors: Durnescu Ioan , Kennefick Louise , Sucic Ines , Glavak Tkalic Renata
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this paper is to describe and evaluate, as a potential research template, a pan-European quantitative survey, the Eurobarometer on Experiencing Supervision (EES). The tool was developed and tested across eight jurisdictions in order to evaluate its accuracy and utility with regard to comparative research. In addition, the paper illustrates the type of data this tool can generate and how this data can be used to improve supervision practices around the world. In brief, EES covers eight core domains of supervision: supervision as a human service, offender’s perception regarding the supervisor, the relationship between the offender and the supervisor, supervision and practical help, supervision and compliance, breach practice, supervision and rehabilitation and the offender’s involvement and participation. Overall, the tool is considered useful and promising. However, further research is required in order to demonstrate its full potential.
Hierarchy of influences on transitional journalism – Corrupting relationships between political, economic and media elites
Authors: Milojević Ana , Krstić Aleksandra
Published: January 2018

In this article, we use the hierarchy-of-influences model as a framework for examining the ways in which media owners, managers and journalists perceive the influence exerted on their work during 12-year democratic transition in Serbia. We aim to explain how factors perceived as influential at the highest system level gradually transfer and relate to the factors on the subsumed levels. Using the concepts such as corruption and the culture of corruption to interpret hierarchy between different levels of influence on transitional journalism, we argue that coupling extra-media actors at the system level can be considered corruption – understood as abuse of power for personal gain or benefit of the aligned group – which translates to all other levels of influence.
Subject pronoun (non)realization in the English learner language of Macedonian speakers
Authors: Mitkovska Liljana , Bužarovska Eleni
Published: January 2018

This article investigates phenomena related to subject pronoun realization in the English interlanguage of Macedonian learners. Preliminary research indicates that learners tend to omit the subject pronoun in both referential and non-referential contexts. It can be presumed that such interlanguage features are due to crosslinguistic influence, given that Macedonian is a pro-drop language and makes no use of a dummy pronoun. The goal of this article is to determine the distribution of these phenomena at four proficiency levels: beginners (A1), elementary (A2), pre-intermediate (B1) and upper-intermediate (B2) for children up to 15 years of age. This research is supplemented by a questionnaire in which learners at the same age and proficiency level are asked to judge the grammaticality of correct and erroneous sentences from the corpus. The results from both studies serve as a basis for postulating the acquisition sequence of subject realization in the learner language and also shed light on the reasons for these types of divergence from the L2 norm.
School-Based Nutrition Education Intervention Using Social Cognitive Theory for Overweight and Obese Iranian Adolescent Girls: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bagherniya Mohammad , Sharma Manoj , Mostafavi Darani Firoozeh , Maracy Mohammad Reza , Safarian Mohammad , Allipour Birgani Ramesh , Bitarafan Vida , Keshavarz Seyed Ali
Published: January 2018

Background

Nowadays childhood obesity has become one the most challenging issue which is considered as a principle public health problem all around the world. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the impact of a 7-month school-based nutrition education intervention using social cognitive theory (SCT) to prevent obesity among overweight and obese adolescent girls.

Method

In this cluster randomized community trial after choosing schools, a total of 172 overweight and obese girl students participated in the study (87 in the intervention and 85 in the control group). A 7-month intervention based on SCT for students, their parents, and teachers was conducted. At baseline and end of the study, body mass index (BMI), waist circumstances (WCs), dietary intake, and psychological questionnaires regarding the SCT constructs were obtained.

Results

After 7 months, the mean of BMI and WCs reduced in the intervention group from 29.47 (4.05) to 28.5 (4.35) and from 89.65 (8.15) to 86.54 (9.76), respectively, but in comparison to the control group, they were not statistically significant ( p values .127 and .504, respectively). In the intervention group, nutritional behaviors and most of the psychological variables (self-efficacy, social support, intention, and situation) were improved in favor of the study and they were significant in comparison to the control group ( p < .05).

Conclusion

Although school-based nutrition education intervention using SCT did not change significantly BMI and WCs among the targeted population in this study, dietary habits as well as psychological factors improved significantly in the intervention group. This trial was registered in Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, www.irct.ir (IRCT2013103115211N1).
Life After: Examining the Relationship Between Sociobehavioral Factors and Mental Health Among African American Ex-Offenders
Authors: Mahaffey Carlos C. , Stevens-Watkins Danelle , Leukefeld Carl
Published: January 2018

Mental health problems are 3 times higher among prisoners than the general population. After release, reentry barriers and other factors can exacerbate mental problems. This study of 250 African American ex-offenders examines the relationship between sociobehavioral factors and mental health. Independent variables included self-reported health, alcohol use, employment, and history of mental problems before prison. Covariates included the number of immediate family with mental problems and the number of serious conflicts with family members or friends. Analyses revealed that men who had serious conflicts, used alcohol more often, reported less than excellent health, and not employed were more likely to report being troubled by mental problems. Family mental health history was not statistically significant. The current study adds to the literature by identifying selected factors associated with the mental health of African American male, ex-offenders. Findings from this study can inform interventions to address mental health issues and reduce recidivism.
A Day in the Life of the Ancient Egyptian Goatherd Ityaa: Abnormal Hieratic P. Michaelides 1 and 2 (P. BM EA 10907 and 10906)
Authors: Van Heel Koenraad Donker
Published: January 2018

Publication of abnormal hieratic P. Michaelides 1 and 2 (P. BM EA 10907 and 10906), both dealing with a financial transaction involving the goatherd Ityaa and two of his colleagues. The texts probably come from Thebes and were written c. 700 bc.
Hieratic varia
Authors: Haring Ben
Published: January 2018

Publication of O. Ashmolean Museum HO 219 (belonging with O. BM EA 25289); discussion of O. Hasany Abdel-Galil (which appears to be the same text as O. Brunner); interpretation of the toponym in P. BM EA 10335 recto 2; and discussion of P. Turin Cat. 2034.
The politicisation of macroprudential regulation: The critical Swedish case
Authors: Belfrage Claes Axel , Kallifatides Markus
Published: January 2018

This article explores the prospects of stabilising financialisation in Europe as a spatial-temporal fix for Anglo-American capitalism’s crisis-tendencies. We analyse the politics of (countercyclical) macroprudential regulation in the critical case study of Sweden. Here, macroprudential regulation is introduced, in contrast with much of the rest of the EU economies, in a credit boom. We find evidence of an administrative crisis, as technocrats face the political constraints on re-regulating financialised accumulation. This suggests that the conditions are ripe for a deepened administrative crisis in Europe once countercyclical macroprudential regulation is implemented.
Cartilage Subsurface Changes to Magnetic Resonance Imaging UTE-T2* 2 Years After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Correlate With Walking Mechanics Associated With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Titchenal Matthew R. , Williams Ashley A. , Chehab Eric F. , Asay Jessica L. , Dragoo Jason L. , Gold Garry E. , McAdams Timothy R. , Andriacchi Thomas P. , Chu Constance R.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury increases risk for posttraumatic knee osteoarthritis (OA). Quantitative ultrashort echo time enhanced T2* (UTE-T2*) mapping shows promise for early detection of potentially reversible subsurface cartilage abnormalities after ACL reconstruction (ACLR) but needs further validation against established clinical metrics of OA risk such as knee adduction moment (KAM) and mechanical alignment.

Hypothesis:

Elevated UTE-T2* values in medial knee cartilage 2 years after ACLR correlate with varus alignment and higher KAM during walking.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Twenty patients (mean age, 33.1 ± 10.5 years; 11 female) 2 years after ACLR underwent 3.0-T knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiography, and gait analysis, after which mechanical alignment was measured, KAM during walking was calculated, and UTE-T2* maps were generated. The mechanical axis and the first and second peaks of KAM (KAM1 and KAM2, respectively) were tested using linear regressions for correlations with deep UTE-T2* values in the central and posterior medial femoral condyle (cMFC and pMFC, respectively) and central medial tibial plateau (cMTP). UTE-T2* values from ACL-reconstructed patients were additionally compared with those of 14 uninjured participants (mean age, 30.9 ± 8.9 years; 6 female) using Mann-Whitney U and standard t tests.

Results:

Central weightbearing medial compartment cartilage of ACL-reconstructed knees was intact on morphological MRI. Mean UTE-T2* values were elevated in both the cMFC and pMFC of ACL-reconstructed knees compared with those of uninjured knees ( P = .003 and P = .012, respectively). In ACL-reconstructed knees, UTE-T2* values of cMFC cartilage positively correlated with increasing varus alignment ( R = 0.568). Higher UTE-T2* values in cMFC and cMTP cartilage of ACL-reconstructed knees also correlated with greater KAM1 ( R = 0.452 and R = 0.463, respectively) and KAM2 ( R = 0.465 and R = 0.764, respectively) and with KAM2 in pMFC cartilage ( R = 0.602).

Conclusion:

Elevated deep UTE-T2* values of medial knee cartilage 2 years after ACLR correlate with 2 clinical markers of increased risk of medial knee OA. These results support the clinical utility of MRI UTE-T2* for early diagnosis of subsurface cartilage abnormalities. Longitudinal follow-up of larger cohorts is needed to determine the predictive and staging potential of UTE-T2* for posttraumatic OA.
Comparison of Clinical Results, Second-Look Arthroscopic Findings, and MRI Findings Between the Transportal and Outside-In Techniques for Double-Bundle Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Prospective, Randomized Controlled Trial With a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Kim Jae Gyoon , Kang Seung Hoon , Kim Jun Ho , Lim Chae Ouk , Wang Joon Ho
Published: January 2018

Background:

Although image analysis has shown that the outside-in (OI) technique is associated with different femoral tunnel geometry than the transportal (TP) technique in anatomic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, it is not known whether clinical results differ between the 2 techniques.

Purpose:

To compare clinical results, second-look arthroscopic findings, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings between the TP and OI techniques in anatomic double-bundle (DB) ACL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

From November 2010 to March 2013, 128 patients were enrolled in this study and were randomly assigned to either the TP group (64 patients) or the OI group (64 patients), and DB ACL reconstructions were performed. At the minimum 2-year follow-up (34.9 ± 10.9 months), 111 patients (86.7%) were evaluated with multiple clinical scores and stability tests (KT-2000 arthrometer, Lachman test, and pivot-shift test). Ninety-three knees were evaluated for graft continuity, graft tension, and synovialization by use of second-look arthroscopy. Seventy-eight knees were evaluated on MRI for graft continuity, femoral graft tunnel healing, and graft signal/noise quotient (SNQ). The primary outcome was KT-2000 arthrometer results. Results were compared between the TP and OI groups.

Results:

No significant differences were found between the 2 groups in terms of KT-2000 arthrometer results, which was the primary outcome, and other clinical results, with the exception of the postoperative functional test of International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) objective score. The ratio of grade A and B on the postoperative functional test of IKDC objective score was significantly larger for the OI group (51/58) than the TP group (36/53) ( P = .005). The second-look arthroscopic findings were not significantly different between the 2 groups in either bundle ( P > .05). In addition, MRI findings did not differ significantly between the 2 groups ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

With the exception of the functional test of IKDC objective score, we found that clinical results, second-look arthroscopic findings, and MRI findings did not differ significantly between the OI and TP techniques for anatomic ACL reconstruction, although femoral tunnel geometries differed significantly between the 2 techniques.
The Effectiveness of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in Gluteal Tendinopathy: A Randomized, Double-Blind Controlled Trial Comparing a Single Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection With a Single Corticosteroid Injection
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jane , Bulsara Max K. , O’Donnell John , McCrory Paul Robert , Zheng Ming Hao
Published: January 2018

Background:

Gluteus medius/minimus tendinopathy is a common cause of lateral hip pain or greater trochanteric pain syndrome.

Hypothesis:

There would be no difference in the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) between a single platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection compared with a corticosteroid injection in the treatment of gluteal tendinopathy.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

There were 228 consecutive patients referred with gluteal tendinopathy who were screened to enroll 80 participants; 148 were excluded (refusal: n = 42; previous surgery or sciatica: n = 50; osteoarthritis, n = 17; full-thickness tendon tear, n = 17; other: n = 22). Participants were randomized (1:1) to receive either a blinded glucocorticoid or PRP injection intratendinously under ultrasound guidance. A pain and functional assessment was performed using the mHHS questionnaire at 0, 2, 6, and 12 weeks and the patient acceptable symptom state (PASS) and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) at 12 weeks.

Results:

Participants had a mean age of 60 years, a ratio of female to male of 9:1, and mean duration of symptoms of >14 months. Pain and function measured by the mean mHHS showed no difference at 2 weeks (corticosteroid: 66.95 ± 15.14 vs PRP: 65.23 ± 11.60) or 6 weeks (corticosteroid: 69.51 ± 14.78 vs PRP: 68.79 ± 13.33). The mean mHHS was significantly improved at 12 weeks in the PRP group (74.05 ± 13.92) compared with the corticosteroid group (67.13 ± 16.04) ( P = .048). The proportion of participants who achieved an outcome score of ≥74 at 12 weeks was 17 of 37 (45.9%) in the corticosteroid group and 25 of 39 (64.1%) in the PRP group. The proportion of participants who achieved the MCID of more than 8 points at 12 weeks was 21 of 37 (56.7%) in the corticosteroid group and 32 of 39 (82%) in the PRP group ( P = .016).

Conclusion:

Patients with chronic gluteal tendinopathy >4 months, diagnosed with both clinical and radiological examinations, achieved greater clinical improvement at 12 weeks when treated with a single PRP injection than those treated with a single corticosteroid injection.

Registration:

ACTRN12613000677707 (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry).
Effect of Dynamic Changes in Anterior Cruciate Ligament In Situ Graft Force on the Biological Healing Response of the Graft-Tunnel Interface
Authors: Ma Richard , Schär Michael , Chen Tina , Sisto Marco , Nguyen Joseph , Voigt Clifford , Deng Xiang-Hua , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) grafts that are placed for reconstruction are subject to complex forces. Current “anatomic” ACL reconstruction techniques may result in greater in situ graft forces. The biological effect of changing magnitudes of ACL graft force on graft-tunnel osseointegration is not well understood.

Purpose:

The research objective is to determine how mechanical force on the ACL graft during knee motion affects tendon healing in the tunnel.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Male rats (N = 120) underwent unilateral ACL reconstruction with a soft tissue flexor tendon autograft. ACL graft force was modulated by different femoral tunnel positions at the time of surgery to create different graft force patterns with knee motion. External fixators were used to eliminate graft load during cage activity. A custom knee flexion device was used to deliver graft load through controlled daily knee motion. Graft-tunnel healing was then assessed via biomechanical, micro–computed tomography, and histological analyses.

Results:

ACL graft-tunnel healing was sensitive to dynamic changes in graft forces with postoperative knee motion. High ACL graft force with joint motion resulted in early inferior ACL graft load to failure as compared with knees that had low-force ACL grafts and joint motion and knees that were immobilized (mean ± SD: 5.50 ± 2.30 N vs 9.91 ± 3.54 N [ P = .013] and 10.90 ± 2.8 N [ P = .001], respectively). Greater femoral bone volume fraction was seen in immobilized knees and knees with low-force ACL grafts when compared with high-force ACL grafts at 3 and 6 weeks.

Conclusion:

The authors were able to demonstrate that ACL graft-tunnel incorporation is sensitive to dynamic changes in ACL graft force with joint motion. Early high forces on the ACL graft appear to impair graft-tunnel osseointegration.

Clinical Relevance:

Current “anatomic” techniques of ACL reconstruction may result in greater graft excursion and force with knee motion. Our results suggest that the postoperative rehabilitation regimen may need to be modified during the early phase of healing to protect the reconstruction.
Clinical Outcomes After Isolated Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction for Patellar Instability Among Patients With Trochlear Dysplasia
Authors: Liu Joseph N. , Brady Jacqueline M. , Kalbian Irene L. , Strickland Sabrina M. , Ryan Claire Berdelle , Nguyen Joseph T. , Shubin Stein Beth E.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction has become one of the most common and widely used procedures to regain stability among patients with recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. While recent studies demonstrated low recurrence rates, improved patient-reported outcome measures, and a high rate of return to sports, limited literature explored its effectiveness as an isolated intervention in the context of trochlear dysplasia.

Purpose:

To determine the efficacy of isolated MPFL reconstruction in treating patellar instability in the setting of trochlear dysplasia.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This was a retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent uni- or bilateral medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction for patellofemoral instability with a minimum 2-year follow-up. No osteotomies were included. Pre- and postoperative assessment included ligamentous laxity, patellar crepitus, tilt, translation, apprehension, and radiographic features, including tibial tubercle-trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance, Dejour classification, and Caton-Deschamps index.

Results:

A total of 121 MPFL reconstructions were included. Mean age at surgery was 23.8 years, and 4.4 dislocation events occurred before surgery. Mean follow-up was 44 months; 76% of patients were female. Mean preoperative TT-TG ratio was 13.5, and mean Caton-Deschamps ratio was 1.2; 92% of patients had Dejour B, C, or D trochlear dysplasia. Kujala score improved from 55.0 preoperatively to 90.0 ( P < .001). Almost all patients (94.5%) were able to return to sports at 1 year, with 74% returning to the same or higher level of play. Only 3 patients reported a postoperative dislocation or subluxation event.

Discussion:

For patients without significantly elevated TT-TG distances or significant patella alta, isolated MPFL reconstruction provides a safe and effective treatment for patellofemoral instability, despite the presence of trochlear dysplasia. Most patients are able to return to sports by 1 year postoperatively at the same or higher level of play.
Risk of Infection After Allograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Are Nonprocessed Allografts More Likely to Get Infected? A Cohort Study of Over 10,000 Allografts
Authors: Yu Anthony , Prentice Heather A. , Burfeind William E. , Funahashi Tadashi , Maletis Gregory B.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Allograft tissue is frequently used in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). It is often irradiated and/or chemically processed to decrease the risk of disease transmission, but some tissue is aseptically harvested without further processing. Irradiated and chemically processed allograft tissue appears to have a higher risk of revision, but whether this processing decreases the risk of infection is not clear.

Purpose:

To determine the incidence of deep surgical site infection after ACLR with allograft in a large community-based sample and to evaluate the association of allograft processing and the risk of deep infection.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The authors conducted a cohort study using the Kaiser Permanente Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Registry. Primary isolated unilateral ACLR with allograft were identified from February 1, 2005 to September 30, 2015. Ninety-day postoperative deep infections were identified via an electronic screening algorithm and then validated through chart review. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the likelihood of 90-day postoperative deep infection per allograft processing method: processed (graft treated chemically and/or irradiated) or nonprocessed (graft not irradiated or chemically processed).

Results:

Of 10,190 allograft cases, 8425 (82.7%) received a processed allograft, and 1765 (17.3%) received a nonprocessed allograft. There were 15 (0.15%) deep infections during the study period: 4 (26.7%) coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, 4 (26.7%) methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus, 1 (6.7%) Peptostreptococcus micros, and 6 (40.0%) with no growth. There was no difference in the likelihood for 90-day deep infection for processed versus nonprocessed allografts (odds ratio = 1.36, 95% CI = 0.31-6.04).

Conclusion:

The overall incidence of deep infection after ACLR with allograft tissue was very low (0.15%), suggesting that the methods currently employed by tissue banks to minimize the risk of infection are effective. In this cohort, no difference in the likelihood of infection between processed and nonprocessed allografts could be identified.
Long-Lasting Neuropsychological Effects of a Computerized Cognitive Training in Patients Affected by Early Stage Alzheimer’s Disease: Are They Stable Over Time?
Authors: Cavallo Marco , Angilletta Chiara
Published: January 2018

Introduction: We investigated the stability of effects of a computerized cognitive training previously administered to a large group of early stage Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, as compared with a control group. Method: Eighty AD patients were randomized in two groups and underwent a computerized cognitive training, or a control intervention. Results: A Repeated Measures General Linear Model (RM-GLM) showed a significant interaction effect for the following neuropsychological tests: the digit span forward and backward, and the two-syllable words test, as measures of short-term memory and working memory; the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT) story immediate and the RBMT story delayed, as measures of ecologically oriented memory; the Token test, as measure of language comprehension; and the Brixton test, as an executive functions measure. Conclusion: Patients in the experimental group showed a significant improvement in various neuropsychological domains due to the training, and these effects decreased after 12 months.
Core-shell poly(lactide-co-ε-caprolactone)-gelatin fiber scaffolds as pH-sensitive drug delivery systems
Authors: Sang Qingqing , Li Heyu , Williams Gareth , Wu Huanling , Zhu Li-Min
Published: January 2018

Dual-drug-loaded pH-responsive fiber scaffolds were successfully prepared by coaxial electrospinning. These were designed with the aim of being sutured into the resection site after tumor removal, to aid recovery and prevent cancer recurrence. The shell was made up of a mixture of gelatin and sodium bicarbonate (added to provide pH-sensitivity), and was loaded with the anti-inflammatory drug ciprofloxacin; the core comprised poly(lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) with the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin hydrochloride. Scanning electron microscopy revealed most fibers were smooth and homogeneous. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated the presence of a clear core/shell structure. The fiber scaffolds were further characterized using infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction, which proved that both drugs were present in the fibers in the amorphous form. The gelatin shells were cross-linked with glutaraldehyde to enhance their stability, and water contact angle measurements used to confirm they remained hydrophilic after this process, with angles between 10 and 35°. This is important for onward applications, since a hydrophilic surface is known to encourage cell proliferation. During in vitro drug release studies, a rapid and acid-responsive release of ciprofloxacin was seen, accompanied by sustained and long-term doxorubicin release. Both the release profiles and the mechanical strength of the fibers can effectively be tuned through the sodium bicarbonate content of the fibers: for instance, the break stress varies from 2.00 MPa to 2.57 MPa with an increase in sodium bicarbonate content. The pH values of aqueous media exposed to the scaffolds decrease only slightly, by less than 0.5 pH units, over the two-month timescale, suggesting that only minimal fiber degradation occurs during this time. The fiber scaffolds also have good biocompatibility, as revealed by in vitro cytotoxicity experiments. Overall, our results demonstrate that the novel scaffolds reported here are promising pH-sensitive drug delivery systems, and may be candidates for use after tumor resection surgery.
Synthesis, characterization, and property of biodegradable PEG-PCL-PLA terpolymers with miktoarm star and triblock architectures as drug carriers
Authors: Zhang Yixin , Luo Song , Liang Yan , Zhang Hai , Peng Xinyu , He Bin , Li Sai
Published: January 2018

A series of amphiphilic terpolymers with miktoarm star and triblock architectures of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(l-lactide acid) (PLLA) or poly(DL-lactide acid) (PDLLA) terpolymers were synthesized as carriers for drug delivery. The architecture, molecular weight and crystallization behavior of the terpolymers were characterized. Anticancer drug doxorubicin was encapsulated in the micelles to investigate their drug loading properties. The miktoarm star terpolymers exhibited stronger crystallization capability, smaller size and better stability than that of triblock polymeric micelle, owing to the lower CMC values of miktoarm star polymeric micelle. Furthermore, the drug-loaded miktoarm star polymeric micelles showed the cumulative DOX release account of the micelles with PDLLA blocks was 65.3% while the release account of the corresponding micelles containing PLLA blocks was 45.2%. The IC50 values of drug-loaded miktoarm star polymeric micelle were lower than triblock polymeric micelle. Meanwhile, Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and Flow Cytometry results demonstrated that the miktoarm star micelles were more favorable for cellular internalization. The miktoarm star micelles with PDLLA blocks were promising carriers for anticancer drug delivery.
Liberalism in contemporary China: Questions, strategies, directions
Authors: Xiaobing Tang , McConaghy Mark
Published: January 2018

This article will examine the strategies by which a number of intellectuals in China have staked out a liberal position in their work over the last decade, doing so in the face of opposition not only from rival intellectual groups but also the state’s ideological machinery. The writings of these intellectuals take up themes inherent to the liberal political tradition, including democracy, individual rights, and the rule of law. Collectively, they seek to revive liberal ideas as the basis for future political reforms, working at a time when New Left and New Confucian discourses have risen to positions of prominence in intellectual circles, each of which reinforce the cultural nationalism of the Chinese government in their own ways. In responding to this intellectual landscape, liberal thinkers have reckoned with four major areas of concern in their work: the meaning of China’s 20th-century history, particularly the Cultural Revolution; the social inequality created by market reforms; statism as a discourse of power that openly rejects Euro-American political models; and cultural pluralism as a grounding idea for 21st-century China.
A hybrid electric vehicle energy optimization strategy by using fueling control in diesel engines
Authors: Huo Yi , Yan Fengjun , Feng Daiwei
Published: January 2018

This paper addresses a control scheme for a parallel hybrid vehicle powertrain by introducing fueling control techniques. Since a diesel engine is involved in the proposed configuration, the control of fuel injection mass and timing becomes a crucial issue. In this study, these two variables are selected as control inputs for the hybrid powertrain system. Meanwhile, an optimization-based control strategy is designed to solve the hybrid electric vehicle power management problem by incorporating engine brake specific fuel consumption characteristics with regard to fuel injection control variables. To show the advantages of the proposed control scheme, another optimization-based strategy with fixed fuel injection timing is developed and implemented for comparison. The influence of NOx emission is also considered in control strategy and simulation results to show that the proposed fuel control technique has limited impact on NOx emission but imposes a considerable improvement on fuel saving.
Experimental research on the flow at the last stage of a 1090 MW steam turbine
Authors: Hoznedl Michal , Kolovratník Michal , Bartoš Ondřej , Sedlák Kamil , Kalista Robert , Mrózek Lukáš
Published: January 2018

This paper presents the experimental research for the flow of the last stage of a turbine for saturated steam with the nominal output 1090 MW. In addition, the flows in 600, 800, and 1070 MW output turbines were also measured. Pneumatic probes were used to determine the distribution of static pressures and absolute angles at the outlets from the penultimate and the last stages of the turbine. Optical probes were used to measure wetness distribution and were placed in positions similar to the pneumatic probes. The courses of static pressures, angles, and wetness for all outputs respectively were compared and discussed. The difference between wetness courses on the left and right side of the turbine as well as before and behind last stage was minimal. Absolute angles of steam behind the last stage are strongly influenced by the vacuum level in the condenser. Big difference between the outlet angles from last stage on the left and right side of the turbine is confirmed. The influence of the tie-boss was evident in both pneumatic and wetness measurements. Differences of the flow field on the left and right sides of the turbine behind the penultimate stage are noted and discussed. These differences lead to a dynamic loading of the penultimate rotor blades and could reduce the service life.
The greenhouse gas impact of bioenergy in developing economies: Evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Chang Meng-Shiuh , Kung Chih-Chun
Published: January 2018

Greenhouse gas emission induced global climate shift is an immediate threat to the world because of increased likelihood of the occurrence of extreme events. Expanding bioenergy production on currently set-aside land is an attractive option being considered by Taiwanese policymakers to reduce potential damages. This study investigates the impact of pyrolysis-based bioelectricity and ethanol on the greenhouse gas emission using a two-stage dynamic semi-parametric model. The results show that the bioelectricity generation has a significantly positive impact on the emission reduction. It encourages Taiwan to place more public resource on bioelectricity generation. This study is extended to forecast the emission reduction for 2015 to 2017. The quarterly emission reduction forecasts vary between 214,806 and 239,497 tons, which is less than 3% out of total emissions. It implies that the Taiwanese government could move the policy supports from biofuel production to bioelectricity production to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Hydrogen production using wind energy from sea water: A case study on Southern and Northern coasts of Iran
Authors: Rezaei Mostafa , Mostafaeipour Ali , Qolipour Mojtaba , Arabnia Hamid-Reza
Published: January 2018

In recent decades, earth’s sharp population growth followed by increasing demand for energy has turned the energy and its current and future sources into much debated issues. Given the well-known consequences of excessive reliance on fossil energy sources, this study is concentrated on wind-powered hydrogen production by desalination of sea water and then subjecting the product to electrolysis. For this purpose, a coastal city was selected from each Iranian coastal province, and then the wind energy generation potential in these cities was evaluated by Weibull distribution function. The amount of energy to be generated by three commercially available wind turbines and the amount of desalinated water and hydrogen to be produced in each area were then evaluated. The results showed that the port of Anzali on the coast of the Caspian Sea has an average annual wind power density of 327 w/m2, and thus enjoys the best wind energy generation potential among the studied coastal areas. The annual energy generation to be achieved by one EWT direct wind 52/900 turbine installed in this port was found to be 2315.53 MWh, which is equivalent to 1804 tons of net annual CO2 emission reduction. The total energy output of the said turbine could be used to produce 439,950.7 m3 of treated water or 35,973.49 kg of hydrogen a year. Thus, a wind farm containing 55 of these turbines could provide enough power to produce the hydrogen needed to fuel all private cars in Anzali.
Beyond Conflict and Complementarity Science and Religion in Contemporary India
Authors: Thomas Renny
Published: January 2018

This article attempts to discuss through detailed ethnographic description, the manner in which scientists in a leading Indian scientific research institute defined and practiced religion. Instead of posing science and religion as dichotomous categories, this article demonstrates its easy coexistence within the everyday lives and practices of Indian scientists. The ‘religious’ scientists did not perceive their religiosity in opposition to science, nor did they accept the complementary view of science and religion. Likewise, the ‘atheistic’ scientists did not find any contradiction in following a ‘religious’ lifestyle and simultaneously identified themselves as atheists or non-believers. This article questions the tacit acceptance of the distinctions between science and religion and seeks to evolve new vocabularies to talk about these categories. It attempts to look at science and religion from a non-dualistic perspective. It argues that a productive way of understanding science and religion is to go beyond the conflict and complementarity models.
In Search of Complementarity in China’s Innovation Strategy through Outward Strategic Mergers and Acquisitions Policy: A Behavioural Additionality Approach
Authors: Sun Zhe
Published: January 2018

Chinese policymakers have witnessed great efforts in building indigenous innovation-led economy as well as a deep interest in promoting outward strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&As) as a major approach to acquire advanced technological know-how. Although debates take place regarding whether the governmental promotion of strategic M&As has an impact on the particular responsiveness of Chinese enterprises in terms of innovation activities, most studies use input or output additionality approaches that directly measure either the additional investment in innovation or the innovation output in the form of commercial benefits. The adoption of these approaches has led to inconclusive results. In this article, we assess the relationship between the governmental promotion and enterprises’ responses using a behavioural additionality approach. The findings show that China’s outward strategic M&A policy is likely to increase enterprises’ willingness to venture abroad, extend their international innovation networks, change their focus on innovation and, last but not least, enhance the learning capacity of Chinese government. We conclude that outward strategic M&As is an avenue to achieve the innovation-led economy in China.
On the methodology of comparative criminal law research
Authors: Billis Emmanouil
Published: January 2018

Comparative legal research aims at identifying modern trends in, and searching for convergences and divergences between more than one legal system. Any meaningful implementation of elements of foreign legal systems at the national level and the smooth realization of the objectives of international and supranational justice presuppose a reciprocal understanding between legal orders that adhere to different traditions in terms of their normative foundations. This study focuses on the methodological questions of basic comparative research in the field of criminal justice. The article first briefly addresses the general problem of defining the aims and methods of a (comparative) research project (Section 1). Subsequently, the article explores the research method of functional comparison. The application of the functional method to the analysis of judgments rendered by supranational and international courts is also examined using the example of a recent case decided by the Court of Justice of the European Union on limitation periods (Section 2). The article concludes with an introduction to the construction and application of ideal types for the purposes of analysis and comparison, using the examples of criminal prosecution and procedure, with a special focus on modern evidentiary and plea-bargaining proceedings (Section 3).