bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patents of Rank in Russia in the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries (Патенты на чин в России XVIII–XIX вв.)
Authors: Вознесенская И.А.
Published: June 2016

This article examines the history of patents of rank, not to be confused with patents of nobility, in Russia from their introduction in 1714 to their elimination as a result of the reforms of the 1860s. Patents of rank as a formal documentary credential confirming the holder’s rank is one of the largest coherent sets of documents available, yet has received very little interest from researchers until now. This article explores the development of the format and texts of these patents on the basis of legal acts published in the Complete Collection of Laws of the Russian Empire, various archival documents, and the texts of the patents themselves (drawn from collections in the Library of the Academy of Sciences, BAN; the Military-Historical Museum of Artillery, Engineers, and Communications Forces, VIMAIViVS; and the St. Petersburg Institute of History of the Russian Academy of Sciences, SPbII RAN). The article pays special attention to the decorative elements, the methods of producing the patents, and the costs of producing them. The cost for obtaining one of these patents depended on the rank being conferred: the higher the rank, the higher, naturally, the cost. The article also describes the basic steps in procuring a patent and its range of uses.
The Liberal Rule-of-law as a Critical Yardstick for China? Explaining Some Contradictions
Authors: Salter Michael
Published: June 2016

This paper continues the debate over whether the prevailing liberal model of the rule-of-law, as classically formulated within the distinctly Western constitutional tradition and then superimposed historically within parts of Asia as a result of colonialism, provides a contextually appropriate standard for critically assessing developments over governance within China. It argues that there are serious difficulties in identifying a viable understanding of the meaning, scope and rationale for ‘the’ rule-of-law. This represents both a general difficulty, and one that applies with particular force to all those legal and political systems that have not arisen from the historically specific context of Western Europe, and the latter’s offshoots – such as the usa. This paper suggests that we consider changing the ideologically-loaded question of ‘what does the rule-of-law doctrine mean for how China should be governed?’ with an equally polemical question: namely, ‘how can our understandings of the liberal rule-of-law be questioned and, perhaps, ultimately redefined, or even abandoned, in the light of the practicalities of securing effective governance within China and those other states that are largely outside the geopolitical and military ambit of Western liberalism and neo-liberalism?’.
Judicial Reform in China within the Context of the Death Penalty Reform
Authors: Qi Chunfang
Published: June 2016

This article is divided into three parts with the aim of addressing the feasibility of continuing a top-down method of judicial reform in the context of death penalty in China, learning from the successful implementation of economic reforms. The first examines the main reasons for the need to launch a judicial reform programme for death penalty in China. The second part analyses popular will or “public opinion,” on this topic and assesses the extent to which this has influenced judicial reform. Finally, the third part discusses the aims of judicial reform; it evaluates whether these aims have been fully achieved, while further analysing the objectives set by the 3rd Plenary of the 18th cpc Congress. Followed by an analysis of the existing laws, it concludes that the first stage of judicial reform for death penalty has not fully achieved its stated target and provides recommendations as to how it should continue in future.
The New Real Property Registration Structure in China: Progress with Unanswered Questions
Authors: Xu Lu
Published: June 2016

Since March 2015, China has been implementing a nationwide unified real property registration structure. This article explains the objectives and measures of this ambitious project against the background of the current system which is fraught with complexities, difficulties and local variations. The move represents significant progress in the regulation and administration of real property in line with the vision of streamlined registration explicitly provided for in statutes such as the Property Law of prc (2007). Nevertheless, within this undoubtedly positive reform, the currently unclear relationship between property law and property registration is left unattended. With reference to comparative materials from England, Scotland and Australia, this paper identifies some of the unanswered questions that would have serious implications on the integrity and reliability of the real property register as a whole, especially in the context of fraud and forgery.
The Regulation of Chinese State-owned Enterprises in National Foreign Investment Laws: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Du Ming
Published: June 2016

This paper sets forth three arguments in relation to the regulation of Chinese state-owned enterprises (soes) in national foreign investment laws. First, there is a broad convergence in national foreign investment laws on how to regulate Chinese soes when they make cross-border investments. Second, the nature and function of soes in China’s socialist market economy is still poorly understood. Consequently, the broad convergence in soe regulation in national foreign investment laws remains too crude a legal criterion in practice. Third, the complexity of Chinese soes in Chinese political and economic context calls for a more nuanced approach in their regulation in national foreign investment laws.
INTERVESSEL PIT MEMBRANE THICKNESS AS A KEY DETERMINANT OF EMBOLISM RESISTANCE IN ANGIOSPERM XYLEM
Authors: Li Shan , Lens Frederic , Espino Susana , Karimi Zohreh , Klepsch Matthias , Schenk H. Jochen , Schmitt Marco , Schuldt Bernhard , Jansen Steven
Published: June 2016

Pit membranes in bordered pits between neighbouring vessels play a major role in the entry of air-water menisci from an embolised vessel into a water-filled vessel (i.e., air-seeding). Here, we investigate intervessel pit membrane thickness (TPM) and embolism resistance (P50, i.e., the water potential corresponding to 50% loss of hydraulic conductivity) across a broad range of woody angiosperm species. Data on TPM and double intervessel wall thickness (TVW) were compiled based on electron and light microscopy. Fresh material that was directly fixated for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was investigated for 71 species, while non-fresh samples were frozen, stored in alcohol, or air dried prior to TEM preparation for an additional 60 species. TPM and P50 were based on novel observations and literature. A strong correlation between TPM and P50 was found for measurements based on freshly fixated material (r = 0.78, P >0.01, n = 37), and between TPM and TVW (r = 0.79, P >0.01, n = 59), while a slightly weaker relationship occurred between TVW and P50 (r = 0.40, P >0.01, n = 34). However, non-fresh samples showed no correlation between TPM and P50, and between TPM and TVW. Intervessel pit membranes in non-fresh samples were c.28% thinner and more electron dense than fresh samples. Our findings demonstrate that TPM measured on freshly fixated material provides one of the strongest wood anatomical correlates of droughtinduced embolism resistance in angiosperms. Assuming that cellulose microfibrils show an equal spatial density, TPM is suggested to affect the length and the shape of intervessel pit membrane pores, but not the actual pore size. Moreover, the shrinking effect observed for TPM after dehydration and frost is associated with an increase in microfibril density and porosity, which may provide a functional explanation for embolism fatigue.
TYLOSES AND GUMS: A REVIEW OF STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND OCCURRENCE OF VESSEL OCCLUSIONS
Authors: De Micco Veronica , Balzano Angela , Wheeler Elisabeth A. , Baas Pieter
Published: June 2016

Vessel occlusion through tyloses or gums is a natural phenomenon occurring with aging and heartwood formation, and in sapwood in response to vessel embolism. These types of vessel occlusion play a crucial role to limit the spread of pathogens and wood decay organisms, also as part of compartmentalization after wounding. In the sapwood, they can be considered to be an effective stress response.Here we review the literature on tyloses and gums in hardwoods, starting with the detailed 19th century account on tyloses by Hermine von Reichenbach. The structural diversity of tyloses (from thin-walled to sclerotic) and gum deposits is highlighted and illustrated. Our understanding of the development of vessel occlusions through vessel contact cells of the ray and axial parenchyma has greatly increased over the last decades, also thanks to ultrastructural and immunocytological studies. We critically discuss the postulated relationships between vessel-to-ray parenchyma pit size and vessel size and the incidence of either tyloses or gums and review the occurrence of these types of vessel occlusions in extant and fossil dicots. All factors identified in the literature as stimuli for vessel occlusion probably act through vessel embolism as a single direct trigger. Attempts in the literature to relate vessel occlusion with mechanisms of vessel refilling and embolism repair are controversial and invite more experimental research.
RING-POROSITY AND EARLYWOOD VESSELS: A REVIEW ON EXTRACTING ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION THROUGH TIME
Authors: García-González Ignacio , Souto-Herrero Manuel , Campelo Filipe
Published: June 2016

Many anatomical features in trees result from their reaction to fluctuating environmental conditions, and some can be measured and dated. Recently, quantitative wood anatomy has been used to build time series, and consequently to study the responses of trees through time. This involves the application of dendrochronological techniques, although some methodological adaptations are necessary when using anatomical variables. Until now, the study of continuous anatomical series has proven to be very promising when applied to the earlywood vessels of ring-porous trees, due to their great physiological relevance.

In this paper, we review the main aspects that must be considered when building continuous series of earlywood vessel features of ring-porous trees as compared to ‘classical’ dendrochronology. We first discuss the procedures for building individual series and chronologies, starting with the selection of variables, examining their statistical properties, and assessing how crossdating and detrending should be adapted. We also show that time series of earlywood vessels usually exhibit a low common signal, but in contrast are strongly related to climate, and often reveal responses not recorded by the classical dendrochronological variables.

In addition, we deal with the optimization of environmental signals, by first evaluating multiple potential variables to be used, and indicate how to reduce their number according to the relations among them. As earlywood variables are basically determined by vessel number or vessel size, we discuss the search for the most appropriate variable to characterize vessel number, as well as the advantage of progressively selecting earlywood vessels attending to their size and position.

Finally, we extend the application of these methodologies to diffuse-porous species as compared to ring-porous trees, and show that the climatic signal contained in their anatomical features is also relevant, provided that vessels are carefully selected upon their location within the ring.
Warm Cores, Eyewall Slopes, and Intensities of Tropical Cyclones Simulated by a 7-km-Mesh Global Nonhydrostatic Model
Authors: Ohno Tomoki , Satoh Masaki , Yamada Yohei
Published: June 2016

Based on the data of a 1-yr simulation by a global nonhydrostatic model with 7-km horizontal grid spacing, the relationships among warm-core structures, eyewall slopes, and the intensities of tropical cyclones (TCs) were investigated. The results showed that stronger TCs generally have warm-core maxima at higher levels as their intensities increase. It was also found that the height of a warm-core maximum ascends (descends) as the TC intensifies (decays). To clarify how the height and amplitude of warm-core maxima are related to TC intensity, the vortex structures of TCs were investigated. By gradually introducing simplifications of the thermal wind balance, it was established that warm-core structures can be reconstructed using only the tangential wind field within the inner-core region and the ambient temperature profile. A relationship between TC intensity and eyewall slope was investigated by introducing a parameter that characterizes the shape of eyewalls and can be evaluated from satellite measurements. The authors found that the eyewall slope becomes steeper (shallower) as the TC intensity increases (decreases). Based on a balanced model, the authors proposed a relationship between TC intensity and eyewall slope. The result of the proposed model is consistent with that of the analysis using the simulation data. Furthermore, for sufficiently strong TCs, the authors found that the height of the warm-core maximum increases as the slope becomes steeper, which is consistent with previous observational studies. These results suggest that eyewall slopes can be used to diagnose the intensities and structures of TCs.
A Spatial–Dynamical Framework for Evaluation of Satellite Rainfall Products for Flood Prediction
Authors: Quintero Felipe , Krajewski Witold F. , Mantilla Ricardo , Small Scott , Seo Bong-Chul
Published: June 2016

Rainfall maps that are derived from satellite observations provide hydrologists with an unprecedented opportunity to forecast floods globally. However, the limitations of using these precipitation estimates with respect to producing reliable flood forecasts at multiple scales are not well understood. To address the scientific and practical question of applicability of space-based rainfall products for global flood forecasting, a data evaluation framework is developed that allows tracking the rainfall effects in space and time across scales in the river network. This provides insights on the effects of rainfall product resolution and uncertainty. Obtaining such insights is not possible when the hydrologic evaluation is based on discharge observations from single gauges. The proposed framework also explores the ability of hydrologic model structure to answer questions pertaining to the utility of space-based rainfall observations for flood forecasting. To illustrate the framework, hydrometeorological data collected during the Iowa Flood Studies (IFloodS) campaign in Iowa are used to perform a hydrologic simulation using two different rainfall–runoff model structures and three rainfall products, two of which are radar based [stage IV and Iowa Flood Center (IFC)] and one satellite based [TMPA–Research Version (RV)]. This allows for exploring the differences in rainfall estimates at several spatial and temporal scales and provides improved understanding of how these differences affect flood predictions at multiple basin scales. The framework allows for exploring the differences in peak flow estimation due to nonlinearities in the hydrologic model structure and determining how these differences behave with an increase in the upstream area through the drainage network. The framework provides an alternative evaluation of precipitation estimates, based on the diagnostics of hydrological model results.
Power Relations
Authors: Florczak Kristine L.
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this column is to consider the notion of power in research. To that end, the idea of power is considered from the perspective of philosophy and then linked to a nursing concept analysis that compares the differences between power over and power to. Then, the nature of power relations is compared and contrasted between quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
Dialogue on Peace and Power
Authors: Chinn Peggy L.
Published: June 2016

An analysis of how Peace and Power have evolved over time is described in this dialogue between Pamela Clarke and Peggy Chinn.
Epistemic Authority in Nursing Practice vs. Doctors’ Orders
Authors: Reed Pamela G.
Published: June 2016

The practice policy of doctors’ orders is still deeply embedded in 21st century professional nurse practice, despite its profound incongruence with nursing’s perspective, standards of practice, and advanced knowledge. The author in this article elaborates on the doctors’ orders policy in relation to nursing’s disciplinary perspective and epistemic authority in professional practice.
Integrative Review on the Use of Newman Praxis Relationship in Chronic Illness
Authors: Rosa Katherine C.
Published: June 2016

Over the past 20 years, many Newman scholars across the globe have investigated health as expanding consciousness with persons living with chronic illness. This integrative review examines the use of the concept, relationship, and its seven dimensions—health, caring, consciousness, mutual process, patterning, presence, and meaning with persons with chronic illness when engaged in health as expanding consciousness praxis. A regular and sustained pattern of publication of studies that included the seven dimensions was found. Relationships among the dimensions of a Newman praxis relationship, chronic illness, and health as expanding consciousness are discussed.
Penetrating the Fog
Authors: Yang Yu-O
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this column is to explore the experience of being pregnant as talked about by women in Taiwan. In nursing and healthcare in general, there is a tendency to objectify the experience from a biomedical view, focusing on physiological changes and symptoms. A human science approach is here applied to help understand the themes that were evident in the comments of 23 pregnant Taiwanese women, about what being pregnant was like for them. The perspective used for the explanation was Parse’s humanbecoming paradigm. Being pregnant is seen by the author as a chosen way of becoming visible-invisible becoming in the world which involves; being oneself, but not oneself, doubling up, and living with the mystery of the other.
Power’s Presence in Nurse Education
Authors: Condon Barbara Backer
Published: June 2016

The notion of power has long been discussed in literature. There continues to exist a vast number of ideas as to what power really is and means. The author here discusses some early notions of power from the philosophical literature where there is debate as to whether power is innate or earned and bestowed upon persons. The potential for power as well as powers need for support from others is then examined in light of the nursing educational arena. Parse’s humanbecoming school of thought also enlightens beliefs on power through the teaching-learning model as well as within the third principle of humanbecoming. These humanbecoming aspects are discussed regarding their presence or role in nursing academia. The column concludes with the notion that possibly the most important power possessed by all is the power to choose.
Symmetry comparison between sacrum and center of mass during walking
Authors: Navvab Motlagh Fateme , Arshi Ahmed Reza
Published: June 2016

Sacrum motion is used extensively in clinical research to represent movement of the entire body by replacing the center of mass. The primary objective of this article was to investigate the effect of this replacement on symmetry determination. The secondary objective was to assess the correlation between the symmetries of trajectories of center of mass and sacrum, and that of spatiotemporal parameters. Three-dimensional trajectories obtained from 37 markers placed on anatomical landmarks of 15 healthy subjects were recorded while walking at three speeds on the treadmill. Trajectory of center of mass was determined using segmental analysis method. The results indicated that two symmetries, one determined using sacrum marker and the other using segmental analysis method, were different and this difference was more pronounced in anterior–posterior direction. In other words, harmonic analysis of sacrum and center of mass trajectories revealed different results. Furthermore, low-to-moderate correlations were observed between spatiotemporal parameters symmetry and symmetries obtained from both center of mass and sacrum. In conclusion, the results indicated that it may not be analytically acceptable to substitute sacrum for center of mass in symmetry determination.
Memory heterotopias in Ukraine: Sites to re-imagine the past
Authors: Sarapina Ievgeniia
Published: June 2016

In the contemporary globalized world, tourist practices deal mostly with appropriated memory. Famous sights are arranged into classical routes proposed by guidebooks and guided tours presenting an official narrative of community’s collective memory. However, should a traveller step aside from major auto routes in Ukraine, direct liaison with the past at the forgotten historical sites is promised. A decade ago, Ukrainian travellers began to discover previously unknown to the public abandoned castles, palaces, manors, churches, cathedral, mills, etc. deep in the province and started to share travelogues after their quest-like trips around Ukraine. Sites that would be considered as heritage in the neighbouring countries, in Ukraine exist as ‘heterotopias’ (places outside usual society’s renderings). Based on the analysis of the Internet travelling community and author’s field trips, this article proposes to consider an alternative mode of tourism that provides potentially inclusive contact with the past.
Re-interpreting the past to shape the future: The uses of memory discourses in community tourism development
Authors: Stokowski Patricia A
Published: June 2016

Ideas about collective memory are implicit in tourism development, even when development projects are primarily entertainment-oriented. This paper studies collective memory in the form of community creation myths associated with the transformation of two rural towns from seasonal tourism to casino gaming. Known for their contributions to Colorado mining history, Central City and Black Hawk adopted casino gambling in 1991. This paper presents data from a longitudinal study of creation myth discourses expressed by stakeholders across several decades. Data show that over time, spokespersons more frequently described a nostalgic yearning for earlier mining periods, though the content and form of discourses varied by commentator. Local residents made more emotional appeals, while local leaders’ and external entrepreneurs’ claims were more strategic. This study shows how memory is manipulated, especially during periods of rapid tourism growth, shedding light on under-studied aspects of social and cultural impacts of tourism development.
‘Brazilians’1 houses’: an example of nostalgia and a proposal of touristic empowerment
Authors: Neto Alda H
Published: June 2016

On the second half of the 19th century, Portuguese emigration to Brazil was a major historical and sociological phenomenon. After an arduous path, the Portuguese returned and became part of the political, economical, social and artistic lives of their hometowns, causing a change on the architectural landscape in the north of the country. These emigrants built houses that became hugely important as social buildings; they represented the way in which each one of them inserted himself in the community that saw him leave. The taste printed by each one of the emigrants in their houses made them a landmark for the application of several artistic movements of that time in the country as well as in Europe, such as Art Noveau (wrought iron) or Romanticism (gardens). The exterior and the interior of these houses portray a constant connection to Brazil and Portugal, proved by the national flags that hang on the façades or by the landscapes represented in paintings or tile panels. However, many of those houses were already destroyed and along them the memory of a Brazilian that stated himself as the paradigm of the self-made man. This type of houses was an important example of the emigration architecture, main feature of the Iberian Peninsula, which needs a fast cultural and touristic valuation, once it was part of a people’s material memory. To protect this kind of patrimony and avoid a loss of a vast estate about emigration, it is considered that these houses may be grouped into a set of touristic routes that will lead us to the finding and knowledge of the material and immaterial inheritance of these men and women. Setting up these routes might constitute an important step towards the museualization of the migrations, recovering the cultural routes of the migrant people.
Branding an authentic rural Maramureş in tourism practices: Interplay of hospitality, heritage and social memory
Authors: Catrina Sonia
Published: June 2016

In trying to shape an “authentic” rural Maramureş, tourist guesthouse owners promote local hospitality as a brand. Mechanisms of branding hospitality, as part of a tourism marketing strategy mean re-enacting their “social memory” related to Romanian peasants’ sociocultural universe. The use of rural guesthouses as arenas for staging peasant identity for tourists entails the presentation of a peasant “essence” as reflected in physical traces (replications of peasant domestic universe) associated with traditional practices and knowledge relating to natural and agricultural landscapes. These local resources involve above all producing identity for tourist cultural consumption. However, the endowment of these resources with symbolic power opens up questions about their authenticity. It also questions the interplay between “heritage” and “hospitality values” intended for tourist development. Using an ethnographic approach, our findings advance understandings about the interplay of hospitality, heritage and social memory with authenticity in a rural world experiencing dramatic socio-economic changes under the incidence of globalization.
Longitudinal Predictors of Outcomes for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kirby Anne V. , Baranek Grace T. , Fox Leslie
Published: June 2016

To generate an evidence-based understanding of longitudinal predictors of social outcomes (i.e., employment, social relationships/participation, independent living) of adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), we conducted a systematic literature review of publications since 2000. Twelve publications deriving from eight study samples fit inclusion/exclusion criteria for the review. In these publications, statistically significant predictors of social outcomes fell into five categories: (a) personal characteristics, (b) individual functioning, (c) family context, (d) services, and (e) other factors (i.e., peer influence, health status). However, only two studies demonstrated high methodological quality, and only one category of predictors—individual functioning—was identified across multiple study samples. To inform practices for youth with ASD, there remains a need for high-quality outcome research related to adults with ASD to better understand predictors, especially related to environmental factors such as related to the family and services received.
Mega clinical trials which have shaped the RAS intervention clinical practice
Authors: Düsing Rainer
Published: June 2016

Following extensive clinical research, drugs affecting the renin–angiotensin system have been used for the treatment of patients with congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, chronic renal failure and for reducing the risk of developing major cardiovascular (CV) events. This review examines all mega trials (those involving >1000 patients) and smaller pivotal trials involving angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is; 25 mega trials) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs; 27 mega trials) to provide perspective on the huge database of evidence that has accumulated on the use of these drugs. Our review demonstrates that ACE-Is and ARBs are generally as effective as conventional therapies in the treatment of hypertension, but offer additional cardioprotective benefits in patients with heart failure, and in those who have experienced myocardial infarction. Also, both ACE-Is and ARBs are capable of renal protection in addition to their blood-pressure-lowering effects. Although ACE-Is and ARBs provide major benefits to CV patients, doubts remain over the concept of blood-pressure-independent CV protection offered by both classes of drugs. ACE-Is and ARBs appear to be equally effective with respect to morbidity and mortality endpoints, but ARBs are better tolerated. Considering the available evidence, the combined use of an ACE-I and ARB should be avoided and full doses of either ACE-I or ARB should be aimed for as evidence suggests they provide a greater prognostic benefit.
Periodic-Zone Model Predictive Control for Diurnal Closed-Loop Operation of an Artificial Pancreas
Authors: Gondhalekar Ravi , Dassau Eyal , Zisser Howard C. , Doyle Francis J.
Published: June 2016

Background:

The objective of this research is an artificial pancreas (AP) that performs automatic regulation of blood glucose levels in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus. This article describes a control strategy that performs algorithmic insulin dosing for maintaining safe blood glucose levels over prolonged, overnight periods of time and furthermore was designed with outpatient, multiday deployment in mind. Of particular concern is the prevention of nocturnal hypoglycemia, because during sleep, subjects cannot monitor themselves and may not respond to alarms. An AP intended for prolonged and unsupervised outpatient deployment must strategically reduce the risk of hypoglycemia during times of sleep, without requiring user interaction.

Methods:

A diurnal insulin delivery strategy based on predictive control methods is proposed. The so-called “periodic-zone model predictive control” (PZMPC) strategy employs periodically time-dependent blood glucose output target zones and furthermore enforces periodically time-dependent insulin input constraints to modulate its behavior based on the time of day.

Results:

The proposed strategy was evaluated through an extensive simulation-based study and a preliminary clinical trial. Results indicate that the proposed method delivers insulin more conservatively during nighttime than during daytime while maintaining safe blood glucose levels at all times. In clinical trials, the proposed strategy delivered 77% of the amount of insulin delivered by a time-invariant control strategy; specifically, it delivered on average 1.23 U below, compared with 0.31 U above, the nominal basal rate overnight while maintaining comparable, and safe, blood glucose values.

Conclusions:

The proposed PZMPC algorithm strategically prevents nocturnal hypoglycemia and is considered a significant step toward deploying APs into outpatient environments for extended periods of time in full closed-loop operation.
Evaluation of the Effects of Insufficient Blood Volume Samples on the Performance of Blood Glucose Self-Test Meters
Authors: Pfützner Andreas , Schipper Christina , Ramljak Sanja , Flacke Frank , Sieber Jochen , Forst Thomas , Musholt Petra B.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Accuracy of blood glucose readings is (among other things) dependent on the test strip being completely filled with sufficient sample volume. The devices are supposed to display an error message in case of incomplete filling. This laboratory study was performed to test the performance of 31 commercially available devices in case of incomplete strip filling.

Methods:

Samples with two different glucose levels (60–90 and 300–350 mg/dl) were used to generate three different sample volumes: 0.20 μl (too low volume for any device), 0.32 μl (borderline volume), and 1.20 μl (low but supposedly sufficient volume for all devices). After a point-of-care capillary reference measurement (StatStrip, NovaBiomedical), the meter strip was filled (6x) with the respective volume, and the response of the meters (two devices) was documented (72 determinations/meter type). Correct response was defined as either an error message indicating incomplete filling or a correct reading (±20% compared with reference reading).

Results:

Only five meters showed 100% correct responses [BGStar and iBGStar (both Sanofi), ACCU-CHEK Compact+ and ACCU-CHEK Mobile (both Roche Diagnostics), OneTouch Verio (LifeScan)]. The majority of the meters (17) had up to 10% incorrect reactions [predominantly incorrect readings with sufficient volume; Precision Xceed and Xtra, FreeStyle Lite, and Freedom Lite (all Abbott); GlucoCard+ and GlucoMen GM (both Menarini); Contour, Contour USB, and Breeze2 (all Bayer); OneTouch Ultra Easy, Ultra 2, and Ultra Smart (all LifeScan); Wellion Dialog and Premium (both MedTrust); FineTouch (Terumo); ACCU-CHEK Aviva (Roche); and GlucoTalk (Axis-Shield)]. Ten percent to 20% incorrect reactions were seen with OneTouch Vita (LifeScan), ACCU-CHEK Aviva Nano (Roche), OmniTest+ (BBraun), and AlphaChek+ (Berger Med). More than 20% incorrect reactions were obtained with Pura (Ypsomed), GlucoCard Meter and GlucoMen LX (both Menarini), Elite (Bayer), and MediTouch (Medisana).

Conclusions:

In summary, partial and incomplete blood filling of glucose meter strips is often associated with inaccurate reading. These findings underline the importance of appropriate patient education on this aspect of blood glucose self-monitoring.
Predicting Glucose Sensor Behavior in Blood Using Transport Modeling: Relative Impacts of Protein Biofouling and Cellular Metabolic Effects
Authors: Novak Matthew T. , Yuan Fan , Reichert William M.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Tissue response to indwelling glucose sensors remains a confounding barrier to clinical application. While the effects of fully formed capsular tissue on sensor response have been studied, little has been done to understand how tissue interactions occurring before capsule formation hinder sensor performance. Upon insertion in subcutaneous tissue, the sensor is initially exposed to blood, blood borne constituents, and interstitial fluid. Using human whole blood as a simple ex vivo experimental system, the effects of protein accumulation at the sensor surface (biofouling effects) and cellular consumption of glucose in both the biofouling layer and in the bulk (metabolic effects) on sensor response were assessed.

Methods:

Medtronic MiniMed SofSensor glucose sensors were incubated in whole blood, plasma-diluted whole blood, and cell-free platelet-poor plasma (PPP) to analyze the impact of different blood constituents on sensor function. Experimental conditions were then simulated using MATLAB to predict the relative impacts of biofouling and metabolic effects on the observed sensor responses.

Results:

Protein biofouling in PPP in both the experiments and the simulations was found to have no interfering effect upon sensor response. Experimental results obtained with whole and dilute blood showed that the sensor response was markedly affected by blood borne glucose-consuming cells accumulated in the biofouling layer and in the surrounding bulk.

Conclusions:

The physical barrier to glucose transport presented by protein biofouling does not hinder glucose movement to the sensor surface, and the consumption of glucose by inflammatory cells, and not erythrocytes, proximal to the sensor surface has a substantial effect on sensor response and may be the main culprit for anomalous sensor behavior immediately following implantation.
Description and Preliminary Evaluation of a Diabetes Technology Simulation Course
Authors: Wilson Rebecca D. , Bailey Marilyn , Boyle Mary E. , Seifert Karen M. , Cortez Karla Y. , Baker Leslie J. , Hovan Michael J. , Stepanek Jan , Cook Curtiss B.
Published: June 2016

Background:

We aim to provide data on a diabetes technology simulation course (DTSC) that instructs internal medicine residents in the use of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) devices.

Methods:

The DTSC was implemented during calendar year 2012 and conducted in the institution's simulation center. It consisted of a set of prerequisites, a practicum, and completion of a web-based inpatient CSII-ordering simulation. DTSC participants included only those residents in the outpatient endocrinology rotation. Questionnaires were used to determine whether course objectives were met and to assess the satisfaction of residents with the course. Questionnaires were also administered before and after the endocrine rotation to gauge improvement in familiarity with CSII and CGMS technologies.

Results:

During the first year, 12 of 12 residents in the outpatient endocrinology rotation completed the DTSC. Residents reported that the course objectives were fully met. The mean satisfaction score with the course ranged from 4.0 to 4.9 (maximum, 5), with most variables rated above 4.5. Self-reported familiarity with the operation of CSII and CGMS devices increased significantly in the postrotation survey compared with that on the prerotation survey (both p < .01).

Conclusions:

In this pilot program, simulation-based education increased the perceived familiarity of residents with CSII and CGMS technologies. In light of these preliminary findings, the course will continue to be offered, with further data accrual. Future work will involve piloting the DTSC approach among other types of providers, such as residents in other specialties or inpatient nursing staff.
Blood Glucose Pattern Management in Diabetes: Creating Order from Disorder
Authors: Choudhary Pratik , Genovese Stefano , Reach Gérard
Published: June 2016

Background:

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is the most accessible way to assess glycemic patterns, and interpretation of these patterns can provide reasons for poor glycemic control and suggest management strategies. Furthermore, diabetes management based on blood glucose (BG) patterns is associated with improved patient outcomes. The aim of this review is therefore to evaluate the impact of pattern management in clinical practice.

Methods:

We included a review of available literature, a discussion of obstacles to implementation of SMBG and pattern management, and suggestions on how clinicians and patients might work together to optimize this management feature.

Results:

The literature review revealed eight publications specifically describing structured approaches to SMBG and pattern management. Specific information on how SMBG might be structured to detect BG patterns, however, remains limited. Barriers to pattern management include not just practical reasons, but emotional and psychological reasons as well.

Conclusions:

Patterns are not always easy to detect or interpret, but on-meter and web-based tools can support both patients and clinicians. Ultimately, successful pattern management requires education and mutual commitment from the clinician and patient—ongoing collaboration is needed to obtain, review, and interpret SMBG values and to make changes based on the patterns.
Assessing the Analytical Performance of Systems for Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Concepts of Performance Evaluation and Definition of Metrological Key Terms
Authors: Schnell Oliver , Hinzmann Rolf , Kulzer Bernd , Freckmann Guido , Erbach Michael , Lodwig Volker , Heinemann Lutz
Published: June 2016

Reliability of blood glucose (BG) measurements is a prerequisite for successful diabetes management. Publications on the evaluation of self-monitored glucose values, however, are frequently characterized by a confusion in terminology. We provide an inventory of key terms such as accuracy, trueness, precision, traceability, calibration, and matrix effect to avoid future misunderstanding. Definitions are taken from the metrological literature and international norms and explained in a language intended for nonspecialists in metrology. The terms are presented in light of the need to apply generally accepted definitions. In addition, a description of requirements and components for a sound evaluation of BG measurement systems is presented. These factors will also enable improvement in future comparisons of study results.
Stability and Performance of Rapid-Acting Insulin Analogs Used for Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kerr David , Wizemann Erik , Senstius Jakob , Zacho Mette , Ampudia-Blasco Francisco Javier
Published: June 2016

Aim:

We review and summarize the literature on the safety and stability of rapid-acting insulin analogs used for continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) in patients with diabetes.

Methods:

Two predefined search strategies were systematically implemented to search Medline and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials for publications between 1996 and 2012.

Results:

Twenty studies were included in the review: 13 in vitro studies and 7 clinical studies. In vitro studies investigated the effects of extreme CSII conditions (high temperature and mechanical agitation) on the risk of catheter occlusions and insulin stability factors, such as potency, purity, high molecular weight protein content, pH stability, and preservative content (m-cresol, phenol). Under these conditions, the overall stability of rapid-acting insulin analogs was similar for insulin lispro, insulin aspart, and insulin glulisine, although insulin glulisine showed greater susceptibility to insulin precipitation and catheter occlusions. A limited number of clinical trials were identified; this evidence-based information suggests that the rate of catheter occlusions in patients with type 1 diabetes using CSII treatment may vary depending on the rapid-acting analog used.

Conclusions:

Based on a limited amount of available data, the safety, stability, and performance of the three available rapid-acting insulin analogs available for use with CSII were similar. However, there is limited evidence suggesting that the risk of occlusion may vary with the insulin preparation under certain circumstances.
Diabetes Professionals Must Seize the Opportunity in Mobile Health
Authors: Brandell Brian , Ford Christopher
Published: June 2016

The number of diabetes management mobile applications (apps) available on the market has grown exponentially since 2009; however, most patients lack the skills necessary for finding relevant health care information. Thus, clinical best practices emphasize the need for ongoing patient education. Despite the importance of education in clinical guidelines, very few of these apps include education in their top functionalities. Most diabetes management mobile apps are not medical devices by definition, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and therefore do not require clearance or approval for market, and very few have been subject to clinical evaluation. There has been little research on the use of diabetes management mobile apps, marginalizing the role of diabetes professionals and educators in a burgeoning market, hungry for information and an improved quality of life. Still, mobile technology holds great promise as a platform for self-management. Health care providers must not only educate patients about these resources, but take steps to ensure that mobile apps follow accepted best practices and guidelines.
Methods of imparting mosquito repellent agents and the assessing mosquito repellency on textile
Authors: Anuar Aufa Adeela , Yusof Nurain
Published: June 2016

This review intends to analyze the distinctive fabric utilized for mosquito repellent studies and forms of treatment mosquito agents on the fabrics. Textile treated with mosquito repellent is a revolutionary innovation to protect human from the bites of mosquito borne disease such as Dengue. This peculiarity was produced as needed in feeling of assurance from mosquitoes in the regions which are territories of the mosquitoes and inclined to disease. To impart this feature, the fabrics are given a treatment of mosquito repellent agent which capable of being utilized and without ruining their characteristics. The utilization of anti-agents to dress and different fabrics is best contrasted with skin application in light of the fact that it lessens the probability of unfavorably susceptible responses. This paper described the textile materials selection, methods of imparting the repellent into the fabrics, types of repellent as well as the repellency test of treated fabrics. The assessments used in the treated textile are summarized and conditions of the assessment of repellency relative to this discussion are presented.
Effects of Intracerebroventricular Administration of Neuropeptide Y on Metabolic Gene Expression and Energy Metabolism in Male Rats
Authors: Su Yan , Foppen Ewout , Fliers Eric , Kalsbeek Andries
Published: June 2016

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is an important neurotransmitter in the control of energy metabolism. Several studies have shown that obesity is associated with increased levels of NPY in the hypothalamus. We hypothesized that the central release of NPY has coordinated and integrated effects on energy metabolism in different tissues, resulting in increased energy storage and decreased energy expenditure (EE). We first investigated the acute effects of an intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusion of NPY on gene expression in liver, brown adipose tissue, soleus muscle, and sc and epididymal white adipose tissue (WAT). We found increased expression of genes involved in gluconeogenesis and triglyceride secretion in the liver already 2-hour after the start of the NPY administration. In brown adipose tissue, the expression of thermogenic genes was decreased. In sc WAT, the expression of genes involved in lipogenesis was increased, whereas in soleus muscle, the expression of lipolytic genes was decreased after ICV NPY. These findings indicate that the ICV infusion of NPY acutely and simultaneously increases lipogenesis and decreases lipolysis in different tissues. Subsequently, we investigated the acute effects of ICV NPY on locomotor activity, respiratory exchange ratio, EE, and body temperature. The ICV infusion of NPY increased locomotor activity, body temperature, and EE as well as respiratory exchange ratio. Together, these results show that an acutely increased central availability of NPY results in a shift of metabolism towards lipid storage and an increased use of carbohydrates, while at the same time increasing activity, EE, and body temperature.
The New Economics of Religion
Authors: Iyer Sriya
Published: June 2016

The economics of religion is a relatively new field of research in economics. This survey serves two purposes—it is backward-looking in that it traces the historical and sociological origins of this field, and it is forward-looking in that it examines the insights and research themes that are offered by economists to investigate religion globally in the modern world. Several factors have influenced the economics of religion: (1) new developments in theoretical models including spatial models of religious markets and evolutionary models of religious traits; (2) empirical work that addresses innovatively econometric identification in examining causal influences on religious behavior; (3) new research in the economic history of religion that considers religion as an independent, rather than a dependent, variable; and (4) more studies of religion outside the Western world. Based on these developments, this paper discusses four themes— first, secularization, pluralism, regulation, and economic growth; second, religious markets, club goods, differentiated products, and networks; third, identification including secular competition and charitable giving; and fourth, conflict and cooperation in developing societies. In reviewing this paradoxically ancient yet burgeoning field, this paper puts forward unanswered questions for scholars of the economics of religion to reflect upon in years to come. (JEL D64, D72, L31, O43, Z12, Z13)