bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 20-Year Follow-up After First-Generation Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation
Authors: Ogura Takahiro , Mosier Brian A. , Bryant Tim , Minas Tom
Published: July 2017

Background:

Treating articular cartilage defects is a demanding problem. Although several studies have reported durable and improved clinical outcomes after autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) over a long-term period, there is no report with over 20 years’ follow-up.

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical outcomes after first-generation ACI for the treatment of knees with disabling, large single and multiple cartilage defects for which patients wished to avoid prosthetic arthroplasty, with a minimum of 20 years’ follow-up.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The authors reviewed prospectively collected data from 23 patients (24 knees; mean age, 35.4 years [range, 13-52 years]) undergoing ACI for the treatment of symptomatic, full-thickness articular cartilage lesions. A mean of 2.1 lesions per knee were treated over a mean total surface area of 11.8 cm2(range, 2.4-30.5 cm2) per knee. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and functional outcome scores, including the modified Cincinnati Knee Rating System, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and Short Form–36 (SF-36), were used. Patients also self-reported an improvement in pain with a visual analog scale and a satisfaction survey.

Results:

The 20-year survival rate was 63% (95% CI, 40%-78%). The evaluation of the 15 knees with retained grafts demonstrated that all clinical scores except the WOMAC subscore for stiffness and SF-36 mental component summary score improved significantly and were sustained to 20 years postoperatively. Ninety-three percent of these patients rated knee-specific outcomes as good or excellent. The outcomes for 9 of 24 knees were considered failures, including 5 undergoing revision ACI and 4 being converted to arthroplasty at a mean of 1.7 and 5.9 years, respectively. Only 1 of 5 knees that underwent revision ACI was converted to arthroplasty at 1.9 years after the index surgery, and the other 4 patients were able to maintain their biological knee. Overall, 20 years later, 79% of patients maintained their native knee, for which they initially sought treatment, and were satisfied when evaluated.

Conclusion:

First-generation ACI provided satisfactory survival rates and significant clinical improvements over a 20-year follow-up, which offers an important standard for comparison with newer-generation ACI technologies of the future.
Cytokine production in mammary adenocarcinoma and its microenvironmental cells in patients with or without metastases in regional lymph nodes
Authors: Autenshlyus Alexander , Arkhipov Sergey , Mikhailova Elena , Marinkin Igor , Arkhipova Valentina , Mogilnaya Ekaterina , Varaksin Nikolay , Rukavishnikov Michael
Published: July 2017

In recent years, the concept of formation of a sufficiently autonomous cytokine network in a malignant tumour has emerged. In this regard, the data on the role of this network and its signalling pathways in the process of metastasis are an interesting topic. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro cytokine-producing potential of mammary adenocarcinoma (MAC; and cells of its microenvironment) from patients with or without metastases in regional lymph nodes (LNs). By enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays of culture supernatants, we studied the cytokine production by biopsy samples of MAC: spontaneous and stimulated by polyclonal activators (PAs: phytohaemagglutinin, concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide). The levels of spontaneous production of interleukin (IL)-10 and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and the amounts of IL-2, IL-10, G-CSF and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) produced during stimulation by PAs, as well as the index of stimulation by polyclonal activators (ISPA) for IL-2 production, were lower for MAC with LN metastasis than for MAC without LN metastasis. The levels of spontaneous production of IL-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ and the ISPA for granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) production were higher for MAC with LN metastasis. There were only three pairwise correlations between the produced cytokines that were specific to MAC with LN metastasis: IL-2 and IFN-γ, IL-6 and GM-CSF, and IL-8 and GM-CSF. There were 10 pairwise correlations between the produced cytokines that were specific to nonmetastasising MAC: IL-6 and IL-10, IL-6 and MCP-1, IL-8 and IL-10, IL-8 and MCP-1, IL-10 and G-CSF, IL-10 and MCP-1, IFN-γ and MCP-1, MCP-1 and G-CSF, G-CSF and IL-1Ra, and GM-CSF and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Our data indicate that metastatic tumours show desynchronisation of many pathways of induction and synthesis of cytokines that are characteristic of nonmetastatic tumours.
Marx on the Mid-nineteenth-Century Gold Standard
Authors: Krause Laurence Alan
Published: July 2017

In part 5 of the third volume of Capital, Marx analyzed the relationship between the monetary and credit systems in mid-nineteenth-century England. He argued this relationship shaped the complex form that crises took in 1847, 1857, and 1867, as well as the contradictory role and effectiveness of the Bank of England in managing those crises.
Early Birds by Light at Night: Effects of Light Color and Intensity on Daily Activity Patterns in Blue Tits
Authors: de Jong Maaike , Caro Samuel P. , Gienapp Phillip , Spoelstra Kamiel , Visser Marcel E.
Published: July 2017

Artificial light at night disturbs the daily rhythms of many organisms. To what extent this disturbance depends on the intensity and spectral composition of light remain obscure. Here, we measured daily activity patterns of captive blue tits ( Cyanistes caeruleus) exposed to similar intensities of green, red, or white light at night. Birds advanced their onset of activity in the morning under all light colors but more under red and white light than under green light. Offset of activity was slightly delayed in all light colors. The total activity over a 24-h period did not change but birds moved a part of their daily activity into the night. Since the effect of red and white lights are comparable, we tested the influence of light intensity in a follow-up experiment, where we compared the activity of the birds under different intensities of green and white light only. While in the higher range of intensities, the effects of white and green light were comparable; at lower intensities, green light had a less disturbing effect as compared with white light on daily rhythms in blue tits. Our results show that the extent of this disturbance can be mitigated by modulating the spectral characteristics and intensity of outdoor lighting, which is now feasible through the use of LED lighting.
The new German statutory minimum wage in comparative perspective: Employment effects and other adjustment channels
Authors: Bruttel Oliver , Baumann Arne , Dütsch Matthias
Published: July 2017

Germany was one of only seven EU member states without a statutory minimum wage before its new legislation took effect in January 2015. We explore the consequences for wage structure, employment and companies. The new wage floor brought significant increases for low-paid employees, with limited observable negative employment effects thus far. To explain these benign outcomes, we refer to institutionalist and behavioural theories and discuss a number of other adjustment channels for companies. Preliminary evidence suggests that companies in sectors highly affected have responded by reducing working hours and/or increasing work intensity and prices. Some have cut special payments and non-wage benefits, reduced labour turnover and attempted to absorb higher wages by hiring more qualified staff. Non-compliance may also constitute an adjustment channel.
Autotransplants in Advanced Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Are They Effective?
Authors: Surbone Antonella , Armitage James O. , Gale Robert Peter
Published: July 2017

Recent data suggest that intensive therapy followed by a bone marrow antotransplant is effective in advanced intermediate and high-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma (predominantly large-cell lymphoma). Twelve studies of autotransplants were analyzed to determine outcome. Results compared to data from 29 chemotherapy studies. Complete remission was reported in 53% of autotransplant recipients versus 17% of persons receiving chemotherapy. Two-year disease-free survival was 16 and 2%, respectively. It is uncertain whether these differences indicate superiority of autotransplants or reflect selection biases. Also unknown is whether similar results might not be obtained with similarly intensive treatment without an autotransplant.
Muscular Tissue Engineering: Capillary-Incorporated Hybrid Muscular Tissues in Vivo Tissue Culture
Authors: Okano Takahisa , Matsuda Takehisa
Published: July 2017

Requirements for a functional hybrid muscular tissue are 1) a high density of multinucleated cells, 2) a high degree of cellular orientation, and 3) the presence of a capillary network in the hybrid tissue. Rod-shaped hybrid muscular tissues composed of C2C12 cells (skeletal muscle myoblast cell line) and type I collagen, which were prepared using the centrifugal cell-packing method reported in our previous article, were implanted into nude mice. The grafts, comprised three hybrid tissues (each dimension, diameter, approximately 0.3 mm, length, approximately 1 mm, respectively), were inserted into the subcutaneous spaces on the backs of nude mice. All nude mice that survived the implantation were sacrificed at 1, 2, and 4 wk after the implantation. The grafts were easily distinguishable from the subcutaneous tissues of host mice with implantation time. The grafts increased in size with time after implantation, and capillary networks were formed in the vicinities and on the surfaces of the grafts. One week after implantation, many capillaries formed in the vicinities of the grafts. In the central portion of the graft, few capillaries and necrotic cells were observed. Mononucleated myoblasts were densely distributed and a low number of multinucleated myotubes were scattered. Two weeks after implantation, the formation of a capillary network was induced, resulting in the surfaces of the grafts being covered by capillaries. Numerous elongated multinucleated myotubes and mononucleated myoblasts were densely distributed and numerous capillaries were observed throughout the grafts. Four weeks after implantation a dense capillary network was formed in the vicinities and on the surfaces of the grafts. In the peripheral portion of the graft, multinucleated myotubes in the vicinities of the rich capillaries were observed. Thus, hybrid muscular tissues in vitro preconstructed was remodeled in vivo, which resulted in facilitating the incorporation of capillary networks into the tissues. © 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.
Culturing Periosteum in Vitro: The Influence of Different Sizes of Explants
Authors: Miura Yasushi , O'Driscoll Shawn W.
Published: July 2017

Periosteal transplantation is being used clinically to repair articular defects. Isolated cells and very small periosteal explants can be grown in tissue culture, but it will be necessary to test larger sizes for tissue engineering to be applied to clinical transplantation of periosteum. This study was conducted to assess the chondrogenic potential of different sizes of periosteal explants in agarose culture. Ninety-six rabbit tibial periosteal explants in three different sizes (small 1.5 × 2, medium 3 × 2, and large 4 × 6 mm, 32 pieces per size) were cultured in agarose suspension for 6 wk and given TGF-β1 (10 ng/mL) for the first 2 wk. Tissue growth, as indicated by normalized final wet weights of the explants after 6 wk in culture, was inversely proportional to explant size. Cartilage formation was observed in all explante. Histomorphometry revealed that cartilage formation was significantly better for the smaller explants (80% cartilage), but similar in the medium and larger explants (60% cartilage). Similar proportions of type II collagen were present in the different-sized explants. This study demonstrates that various sizes of periosteal explants can be grown in culture. Abundant cartilage was produced even by the large explants. © 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.
Improved Assessment of Isolated Islet Tissue Volume Using Digital Image Analysis
Authors: Stegemann Jan P. , O'Neil John J. , Nicholson Don T. , Mullon Claudy J.-P.
Published: July 2017

Accurate and consistent measurement of tissue volume is critical to performing many types of islet research; however, conventional visual determination of isolated islet yields through a microscope is heavily operator dependent. An improved method of islet volume determination using digital image analysis (DIA) was developed to remove operator bias and automate the islet counting process. A series of 140 porcine islet isolations were used to evaluate the DIA method in three separate stages. In Stage 1 ( n = 29 isolations), the conventional and DIA methods were correlated with two other independent islet quantitation methods: insulin extraction, and DNA extraction. It was found that volumes determined by DIA correlated more closely with insulin content and DNA content than did conventionally determined volumes. In Stages 2 and 3 ( n = 54 and 57 isolations, respectively), it was shown that an increase in the number of fields analyzed by DIA did not significantly improve the quality of the correlations. Inclusion of very small tissue (<50 fun in diameter), which is ignored in the conventional protocol affected yields by less than 10% and did not significantly improve the correlation with insulin or DNA content. Quantitation of isolated islet tissue volume using DIA has been shown to be rapid, consistent, and objective. In the laboratory, use of this method as the standard for islet volume measurement will allow more meaningful comparison of experimental results between centers. In the clinic, its use will allow more accurate dosing of transplanted tissue. © 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.
Lives and choices, give and take: Altruism and organ procurement
Authors: Thornton Vicky
Published: July 2017

In 2015, Wales introduced a deemed consent: soft opt-out system for organ procurement in order to address the chronic shortage of organs for transplant. Early statistical evidence suggests that this has had a positive impact on cadaveric organ donation. Such a system for procurement has previously been dismissed by the Organ Donation Taskforce, who suggested that opting out could potentially undermine the concept of donated organs as gifts and this could then negatively impact the number of organs offered for transplant. Considerable weight was placed upon the need to retain the altruistic gift element associated with an opt-in system. This article will consider the role of altruism in an organ procurement policy. A broad utilitarian approach will be taken when putting forward the arguments in favour of adopting a weak altruism position in a soft opt-out system for procurement with a combined registry.
Age discrimination in healthcare institutions perceived by seniors and students
Authors: Dobrowolska Beata , Jędrzejkiewicz Bernadeta , Pilewska-Kozak Anna , Zarzycka Danuta , Ślusarska Barbara , Deluga Alina , Kościołek Aneta , Palese Alvisa
Published: July 2017

Background:

Old age–based discrimination is observed as the most tolerated prejudice in society and has also been witnessed in healthcare institutions.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to explore age-based discrimination in healthcare institutions as perceived by seniors and students of Medicine and Nursing.

Research design:

A multi-method study design, by involving a triangulation design.

Participants and research context:

A purposeful sample of individuals aged 65+ (n = 80) and medical and nursing students (n = 100) in the eastern region of Poland.

Ethical considerations:

Ethical approval of the research protocol was received from the Ethics Committee at the Medical University of Lublin.

Findings:

‘Old age’ was perceived by groups of participants based on three themes: (a) positive, (b) negative and (c) neutral connotations. The negative connotations predominated. The beginning of old age was defined by the metric of age and described by showing the complexity of the ageing process involving subjective, objective and societal aspects. Experience of age discrimination in healthcare institutions was reported by 24 (30%) seniors and witnessed by 47 (47%) students surveyed and for both groups occurred mainly at the hospital level and by physicians. Only 48 students (48%) declared a willingness to work with the older people in the future, and barriers were reported at the personal and professional levels, and also in some visions of older people.

Conclusion:

The conceptualization of old age as reported by seniors and students mainly carried negative connotations, reflecting the profoundly based stereotypes within society regarding the older people. Seniors have reported being exposed to ageism and have witnessed ageism episodes in HCIs; also, students have faced ageism episodes during their clinical education. There is a need for ethical education within medical and nursing courses to shape positive attitudes towards the older people. A positive vision of ageing should be promoted not only among young people but also among adults and older people to avoid self-stereotyping of older people and seeing old age from negative perspective.
The Information Content of the Term Structure of Interest Rates in Emerging Economies: The Case of Thailand
Authors: Paweenawat Archawa
Published: July 2017

This article studies the information content of the term structure of interest rates of Thai government bonds. Using monthly data from July 2001 to December 2013, this article tests whether the term structure contains information about future interest rates, inflation and gross domestic product (GDP) growth. The results suggest that, despite the low liquidity of the Thai government bond market, the term structure contains considerable information about future interest rates and GDP growth.

JEL Classification: E43, E44, G12
Information Content of Implicit Spot Prices Embedded in Single Stock Future Prices: Evidence from Indian Market
Authors: Pathak Rajesh , Verousis Thanos , Chauhan Yogesh
Published: July 2017

This study examines the information content of pricing error, measured by the difference between the implied price computed using the cost of carry model and the spot price of Single Stock Futures (SSFs), traded on National Stock Exchange (NSE), India. The returns of portfolios, based on ranking of such pricing errors, are investigated. The consistency of results is verified by controlling for established risk factors, that is, market, size, value and momentum premium, and idiosyncratic factors such as firm’s liquidity and size. Our study reveals that the pricing error is a priced risk factor that contains incremental information about stock returns of day t, and not beyond. We conclude that implied spot prices from stock futures market are useful for traders to profit in the spot market.

JEL Classification: G120, G130
Amaravati and the New Andhra
Authors: Upadhya Carol
Published: July 2017

The article explores the cultural politics of regionalism in Coastal Andhra following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh through a focus on the planning of a new capital city, Amaravati. The envisioned city embodies an imagination of the state’s future development, in which older signifiers of Andhra identity are sutured with global aspirations. Viewing Amaravati as a symbolic space where Andhra is being reconstituted, the article traces the reterritorialization of the region by a deterritorialized provincial elite through return flows of capital and state-led revitalization of regional identity. While the Amaravati plan reflects broader trends of neoliberal urbanization in India, it is also deeply embedded in regional development aspirations and contestations.
Why Should We Use Online Research Methods? Four Doctoral Health Student Perspectives
Authors: Germain Jennifer , Harris Jane , Mackay Sean , Maxwell Clare
Published: July 2017

The growth of the Internet has led to an increase in researchers utilizing online methods. Online communities such as forums, blogs, and video platforms are particularly useful for research involving populations that are Internet savvy, seldom heard or discussing sensitive or illicit behavior. Drawing upon the experiences of four doctoral health students who are using online methods, this article discusses the value and benefits of conducting online research as well as the limitations and difficulties encountered. Consideration is given to the methodological and ethical implications of online research. Our own research leads us to reflect on participants’ perceptions of what is public, preserving anonymity and protecting participants from harm.
A Comparison of the Efficacy and Tolerability of the Treatments for Sciatica: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Guo Jian-Rong , Jin Xiao-Ju , Shen Hua-Chun , Wang Huan , Zhou Xun , Liu Xiao-Qian , Zhu Na-Na
Published: July 2017

Background: There remains a lack of a systematic summary of the efficacy and safety of various medicines for sciatica, and discrepancies among these exist. Objective: The aim of this study is to comprehensively assess the efficacy of and tolerance to several medical options for the treatment of sciatica. Methods: We performed a network meta-analysis and illustrated the results by the mean difference or odds ratio. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was used for indicating the preferable treatments. All data analyses and graphs were achieved via R 3.3.2 and Stata 13.0. Results: The subcutaneous anti–tumor necrosis factor–α (anti-TNF-α) was superior to the epidural steroid + anesthetic in reducing lumbar pain in both acute + chronic sciatica patients and acute sciatica patients. The epidural steroid demonstrated a better ability regarding the Oswestry disability score (ODI) compared to the subcutaneous anti-TNF-α. In addition, for total pain relief, the use of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs was inferior to the epidural steroid + anesthetic. The epidural anesthetic and epidural steroid + anesthetic both demonstrated superiority over the epidural steroid and intramuscular steroid. The intravenous anti-TNF-α ranked first in leg pain relief, while the subcutaneous anti-TNF-α ranked first in lumbar pain relief, and the epidural steroid ranked first in the ODI on the basis of SUCRA. In addition, their safety outcome (withdrawal) rankings were all medium to high. Conclusions: Intravenous and subcutaneous anti-TNF-α were identified as the optimal treatments for both acute + chronic sciatica patients and acute sciatica patients. In addition, the epidural steroid was also recommended as a good intervention due to its superiority in reducing ODI.
Arthroscopic Capsular Shrinkage for Treatment of Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Authors: Vuurberg Gwendolyn , de Vries Jasper S. , Krips Rover , Blankevoort Leendert , Fievez Alex W.F.M. , van Dijk C. Niek
Published: July 2017

Background:

Capsular shrinkage is an arthroscopic stabilization technique that can be used in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI), if desired in addition to primary arthroscopic procedures. Despite positive short-term results, long-term follow-up of these patients has not yet been performed. Therefore, our objective was to assess whether capsular shrinkage still provided functional outcome after 12-14 years compared to preoperative scores.

Methods:

This study was a retrospective long-term follow-up of a prospectively conducted longitudinal multicenter trial. The study duration was from February 2002 to September 2016, including a preoperative assessment and short-, mid-, and long-term follow-up. At the time of inclusion, patients were diagnosed with CAI, >18 years old, were unresponsive to conservative treatment, and had confirmed mechanical ankle joint laxity. Patients were excluded if the talar tilt was greater than 15 degrees, if they had received previous operative treatment, or had constitutional hyperlaxity, systemic diseases, or osteoarthritis grade II or III. The primary outcome was the change in functional outcome as assessed by the Karlsson score.

Results:

Twenty-five patients of the initial 39 were available for this follow-up. This group had a mean age of 43.2 years (SD±11.1) and included 15 males. A statistically significant improvement was found in the Karlsson score at 12-14 years (76.6 points; SD±25.5) relative to the preoperative status (56.4 points; SD ±13.3; P < .0005). Although 17 patients (68%) reported recurrent sprains, 23 patients (92%) stated that they were satisfied with the procedure.

Conclusions:

Despite improved functional outcome and good satisfaction in patients with CAI after capsular shrinkage, recurrence rates and residual symptoms were high. For this reason, arthroscopic capsular shrinkage is not recommended as joint stabilization procedure in patients with CAI.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series
Economic Conditions and Drug and Opioid Overdose Deaths
Authors: Brown Ezequiel , Wehby George L.
Published: July 2017

We examine the effects of state-level economic conditions including unemployment rates, median house price, median household income, insurance coverage, and annual and weekly work time on deaths on drug overdose deaths including from opioids and prescription opioids between 1999 and 2014. We employ difference-in-differences estimation controlling for state and year fixed effects, state-specific time trends, and demographic characteristics. Drug overdose deaths significantly declined with higher house prices, an effect driven by reduction in prescription-opioid mortality, by nearly 0.17 deaths per 100,000 (~4%) with a $10,000 increase in median house price. House price effects were more pronounced and only significant among males, non-Hispanic Whites, and individuals younger 45 years. Other economic indicators had insignificant effects. Our findings suggest that economic downturns that substantially reduce house prices such as the Great Recession can increase opioid-related deaths, suggesting that efforts to control access to such drugs should especially intensify during these periods.
DNA Microarray Analysis of Estrogen Responsive Genes in Ishikawa Cells by Glabridin
Authors: Melissa Poh Su Wei , Phelim Yong Voon Chen , Navaratnam Visweswaran , Yoke Yin Chia
Published: July 2017

Based on a previous study, glabridin displayed a dose-dependent increase in estrogenic activity and cell proliferative activity in Ishikawa cells. However, when treated in combination with 17β-E2, synergistic estrogenic effect was observed but without the same synergistic increase in cell proliferative effect. This study aimed to identify the estrogen and nonestrogen-regulated activities induced by glabridin and in combination with 17β-E2 in comparison with 17β-E2. The results showed that 10 µM glabridin and the combination treatment of 100 nM glabridin with 1 nM 17β-E2 regulated both the genomic and nongenomic estrogen pathways to possibly provide benefits of estrogens in cardiovascular, circulatory, and vasculature systems. Meanwhile, the combination of 100 nM glabridin with 1 nM 17β-E2 seems to be more suitable to be used as an estrogen replacement. Finally, the results of this study have added on to the present knowledge of glabridin’s function as a phytoestrogen and suggested new ideas for the usage of glabridin.
EJWS retrospective on intersectionality
Authors: Davis Kathy , Zarkov Dubravka
Published: July 2017

The EJWS has been at the forefront of debates about intersectionality in Europe. In the past two decades, the journal has published countless articles on intersectionality as theory, methodology, and political framework for doing critical feminist research. We have selected some of these articles that illustrate the rich and varied European contribution to intersectionality. We want to use this as an opportunity to think critically about the possibilities and pitfalls of one of feminism’s most important travelling theories. The selected articles can be accessed at http://journals.sagepub.com/page/ejw/collections/virtual-special-issues/intersectionality
The use of clinical databases in disease outcomes research: Is the ethics of IRB review keeping up?
Authors: Bereza Eugene
Published: July 2017

There is a perceived tension in research ethics between protecting the interests of participants and promoting good research as a societal good. The challenge of balancing the potential benefits of large clinical databases for disease outcomes research while protecting patients’ privacy and confidentiality is an example of this dynamic. What is new about this tension in the context of “data warehousing” is the conflation of many differing interpretations of relevant ethics terminology, the proliferation of different kinds of databases, as well as the growth of research on a global level without the requisite harmonization of regulatory frameworks. The evolution of electronic medical records, the blurring of lines between clinical care and research in some rare orphan diseases, the growing trend to advocate for patient-centered research, and the advent of “open science” to facilitate global research initiatives have also contributed to challenging the existing norms for degrees of consent to this kind of research.
The equal opportunity harasser, sexual harassment, gender-neutral words, and Ludwig Wittgenstein
Authors: Pate Richard L
Published: July 2017

The equal opportunity harasser (EOH) in sex discrimination cases is an employer who harasses both male and female employees alike. The EOH principle postulates that equal harassment of both genders equates to an absence of disparate treatment and therefore an absence of the discriminatory conduct necessary to violate antidiscrimination laws. In comparing the equality of the harassment, courts have generally focused on external indicators consisting mainly of perceptible manifestations of the harassment, such as the number of harassing episodes, the nature of the harassment, and most, notably, the words used during such episodes. This note’s focus is on the words used during the harassment. Its premise maintains that the external indicators analysis fails to consider implicit indicators, that is, the societal hierarchy and norms which shape the persons’ sentiments long before the employer employee relationship is formed. It is this less palpable background which lends meaning to the words used during the harassment. This note suggests that the most viable standard should hold the presumption that even apparently gender-neutral words are virtually inexorably due to sex, accordingly, the equal EOH should be per se rejected.
Late emotional effects of rehabilitation during childhood and their impact on coping with deafness in adulthood
Authors: Eichengreen Adva , Hoofien Dan
Published: July 2017

This study examined potential influences of childhood rehabilitation and over-normalization on coping with disability in adulthood. A total of 88 deaf and hard-of-hearing students were interviewed retrospectively about their childhood and completed self-report questionnaires assessing psychological environment-directedness and present emotional and behavioral coping with deafness. It was partially supported that over-normative parental attitude negatively affected coping with deafness through the mediation of elevated environment-directedness. Intensity of childhood rehabilitation was not found to affect adulthood coping with deafness. However, post-hoc analyses supported this mediation path when rehabilitation had been intensive yet not prolonged. Alleviating changes in the perception and practice of rehabilitation are suggested.
Analytical investigation on effective elastic stiffness of eccentric steel beam–column joints
Authors: Shi Zhengjie , Fan Jiansheng
Published: July 2017

Eccentric steel beam–column joints could satisfy the architecture requirements flexibly. They were occasionally used in buildings such as the Huarun Group Headquarters Building (400 m) in Shenzhen, China. However, the eccentricity decreases the mechanical properties including the elastic stiffness significantly. This article focused on the analysis of the effective elastic stiffness of eccentric steel beam–column joints. First, an analytical model was proposed to calculate the effective elastic stiffness. In the model, the deformation of the joint core was divided into six components: three shear deformations and three torsion deformations. Moreover, the accuracy of the model was verified by comparison with the finite element results. A parametric analysis was performed and the critical factors influencing the elastic stiffness were obtained. Finally, the analysis of the eccentric and concentric frame systems was conducted. The periods of natural vibration, lateral displacements, story drifts and story shear forces obtained were different in the two kinds of frames, which indicated that eccentricity contribution should be carefully considered for a rational design of eccentric joints.
Effect of screw spacing on behavior of axially loaded back-to-back cold-formed steel built-up channel sections
Authors: Ting Tina Chui Huon , Roy Krishanu , Lau Hieng Ho , Lim James BP
Published: July 2017

In cold-formed steel structures, such as trusses, wall frames, and portal frames, the use of back-to-back built-up cold-formed steel channel sections for the column members is becoming increasingly popular. In such an arrangement, intermediate fasteners at discrete points along the length prevent the individual channel sections from buckling independently. Current guidance by the American Iron and Steel Institute and the Australian and New Zealand Standards for built-up sections describes a modified slenderness approach, to take into account the spacing of the screws. Limited experimental tests or finite element analyses, however, have been reported in the literature for such sections to understand the effect of screw spacing. This issue is addressed herein. The results of 30 experimental tests are reported, conducted on back-to-back built-up cold-formed steel channel sections covering stub columns to slender columns. A finite element model is then described which shows good agreement with the experimental test results. The finite element model is then used for the purposes of a parametric study comprising 144 models. It is shown that while the modified slenderness approach is in general conservative, for stub columns it can be unconservative by around 10%.
The Great Asian International School Gold Rush: an economic analysis
Authors: Machin Denry
Published: July 2017

The number of international schools is growing, especially in Asia. This presents competitive challenges; most obviously for student recruitment and retention. However, demand for places at these schools is also growing. As a result, while international schooling may feel competitive, aggregate economic data show that growing numbers do not axiomatically equate to fierce competition; many schools enjoy benign market pressures. This observation, the paper concludes, encourages a more nuanced view of international school competition across Asia – and of its gold rush conditions.
Elemental Diet Accelerates the Recovery From Oral Mucositis and Dermatitis Induced by 5-Fluorouracil Through the Induction of Fibroblast Growth Factor 2
Authors: Harada Koji , Ferdous Tarannum , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Ueyama Yoshiya
Published: July 2017

Mucositis and dermatitis induced by anticancer agents are common complications of anticancer therapies. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of Elental (Ajinomoto Pharmaceutical Ltd, Tokyo, Japan), an elemental diet with glutamine in the treatment of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-induced oral mucositis and dermatitis in vivo and tried to clarify the underlying mechanisms of its action. Oral mucositis and dermatitis was induced through a combination of 5-FU treatment and mild abrasion of the cheek pouch in hamsters and the dorsal skin in nude mice respectively. These animals received saline, dextrin or Elental suspension (18 kcal/100 g) by a gastric tube daily until sacrifice. Elental reduced oral mucositis and dermatitis more effectively than dextrin in the animal model. Moreover, growth facilitating effects of Elental on HaCaT cells were examined in vitro. MTT assay, wound healing assay, and migration assay revealed that Elental could enhance the growth, invasion, and migration ability of HaCaT. ELISA and Western blotting showed upregulated FGF2 in Elental-treated HaCaT. These findings suggest that Elental is effective for the treatment of mucositis and dermatitis, and may accelerate mucosal and skin recovery through FGF2 induction and reepithelization.
Joint source–channel rate allocation with unequal error protection for space image transmission
Authors: Dong Dan , Wu Shaohua , Li Dongqing , Jiao Jian , Ding Chanjuan , Zhang Qinyu
Published: July 2017

High reliable and efficient image transmission is of primary importance for space communications. In the traditional space image transmission system design, the source coding module and channel coding module are separated. This separate design, although simple to be implemented, cannot explore the transmission performance to the most. In this article, we propose a joint source–channel rate allocation framework to improve the space image transmission performance. A joint rate allocation algorithm based on the packet loss rate is proposed. For certain required system transmission rate, the optimal source coding and channel coding rate pair can be selected from pre-configured code rate sets by sliding search. In addition, our design has taken into account the progressive scalability feature of the image compression results. Each of the source coding output packets is divided into several sub-packets with different levels of significance and then channel coding with different rates is applied on these sub-packets to achieve unequal error protection. Simulation results show that the proposed joint design can significantly improve the image reconstruction quality. Compared with the traditional separate design, the proposed joint design can achieve 3–5 dB performance gain in terms of peak signal-to-noise ratio.
Magnetic Compression Stricturoplasty For Treatment of Refractory Esophageal Strictures in Children: Technique and Lessons Learned
Authors: Woo Russell , Wong Christopher Marc , Trimble Zachary , Puapong Devin , Koehler Shannon , Miller Scott , Johnson Sidney
Published: July 2017

Introduction. Esophageal stricture is the most common complication following repair of esophageal atresia (EA). In general, these strictures are successfully managed using endoscopic techniques including bougie and balloon dilation, stenting, and chemotherapeutic agent application. If these techniques are unsuccessful, patients require segmental esophageal resection and reanastomosis or esophageal replacement. Magnetic compression anastomosis has been described in children. Herein we report our experience with magnetic compression stricturoplasty to treat refractory strictures after EA repair. Methods. We reviewed our experience using magnets to treat refractory strictures in 2 patients. Both patients failed multiple standard interventions. Because of near complete esophageal obstruction, both patients were candidates for esophageal replacement or segmental resection/anastamosis. In both patients, we applied neodymium-iron-boron magnets using fluoroscopic and endoscopic guidance. Results. The magnets were successfully positioned in both cases. Magnets were left in place for 7 and 10 days allowing for gradual compression stricturoplasty/anastamosis. Upon removal of the magnets, recanalization was visualized endoscopically and self-expanding stents were placed. There were no leaks or significant early complications. By 31 months post–magnetic stricturoplasty, both patients achieved durable esophageal patency without dysphagia. Conclusion. Magnetic stricturoplasty was successful at establishing early patency of the esophagus in 2 patients with recalcitrant EA strictures. Fundamental knowledge of magnetism was critical in configuring magnet arrays for surgery. In both cases, early follow-up is promising. Further follow-up will define the long-term success of this technique.
Helping Bodies in Motion Stay in Motion Through a Unique Model of Care
Authors: Girmann Jeremy
Published: July 2017

There are many inherent challenges associated with the development of an effective lifestyle medicine practice that is financially viable. There exist numerous proposed practice models, many of which show promise. Inertia Medical represents a model of combined care through which services related to musculoskeletal and lifestyle medicine are offered in a part-time, self-pay, solo practice. Central to the framework of Inertia Medical is simplicity. The small practice structure allows patients to feel closely connected to the provider and directly involved in their own health care. Minimal overhead costs and limited administrative tasks allow more time, energy, and resources to be focused on what matters most—delivering high-quality patient care. The simple design has become a distinguishing characteristic of this practice and could allow other health care providers to adopt a similar model.
Three-degree-of-freedom positioning control of magnetically levitated permanent magnet planar motor using active disturbance rejection control scheme
Authors: Zhang Xinhua , Zhu Qing , Sun Yukun , Yang Zebin , Sun Xiaodong
Published: July 2017

Magnetically levitated permanent magnet planar motor is a new-generation motion device in modern precision industry, and the design of advanced motion controller has always been a main concern in the research and development of magnetically levitated permanent magnet planar motor. Due to the decrease in electromagnetic force caused by the deflection of the mover or the sharp decrease in magnetic flux density with height, it is very difficult to realize accurate positioning control of 3 degrees of freedom. In this article, an active disturbance rejection control scheme is adopted. The extended state observer is used to estimate the comprehensive disturbance and motion state in real time. Then, according to the value estimated by the extended state observer, the active disturbance rejection control motion controller can compensate the electromagnetic force in time to achieve good anti-jamming performance. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the adopted active disturbance rejection control scheme has good dynamic performance and uncertain disturbance robustness.
Using artificial neural network on flight distance prediction for paper plane
Authors: Lan Tian-Syung , Chen Pin-Chang , Chuo Chih-Hsien
Published: July 2017

This study shows how to apply the essential principles of paper plane on the flight experiment. It applies three basic structures of paper plane including nose, wing, and rudder movements to predict the optimal flight distance. This study employs the artificial neural network model for data analysis and prediction. The data collected from the flight distance of paper plane are calculated and analyzed in the artificial neural network model in order to predict the optimal flight distance of paper plane. This study is intended to discover the essential principles and basic structures of manufacturing paper plane and provide theoretical and practical contributions in hands-on experiments and aviation science.
Organ-specific effects on inflammation and apoptosis of recombinant human activated protein C in a murine model of sepsis
Authors: Simon Tim-Philipp , Mueckenheim Hendrik , Wagner Tobias , Sponholz Christoph , Claus Ralf Alexander , Saenger Joerg , Marx Gernot , Schuerholz Tobias
Published: July 2017

There is legitimate interest in the effects of recombinant human activated protein C (rhAPC) on various organs and individual patients, but the specific effects on organ tissues during early sepsis remain unknown. Differences in the levels of organ damage may influence responses to drug therapy. We aimed to investigate whether rhAPC induces organ-specific effects on inflammation and apoptosis using randomized, experimental trials with male NMRI mice. Animals underwent caecal ligation and puncture, and after 12 h, sepsis inflammation and apoptosis were assessed by plasma cytokines, gene expression ratios and immunohistochemistry (IHC). RhAPC-treated animals exhibited increased physical activity and decreased cytokine release compared to untreated animals (interleukin-6 reduction 58%, P < 0.001). CD14 expression was higher in the heart and liver and decreased upon rhAPC application in the heart (−35%), liver and kidney (both −60%). Macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP2) expression decreased in the heart (−58%) but not in the liver or kidney. IHC revealed decreased cleaved caspase-3 in the heart and kidney due to rhAPC intervention. Preservation of the endothelial PC receptor was significant only in the heart during sepsis ( P = 0.007). In early polymicrobial sepsis, inflammation was more pronounced in the heart and liver compared to the kidney. RhAPC exhibited protective effects, especially in the heart tissue, and led to reduced plasma levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improved physical activity.
Following #JillMeagher: Collective meaning-making in response to crime events via social media
Authors: Powell Anastasia , Overington Caitlin , Hamilton Gemma
Published: July 2017

In the early morning of Saturday 22 September 2012 an Australian woman, Gillian ‘Jill’ Meagher, was reported missing after spending an evening out with work colleagues in suburban Brunswick (Melbourne, Victoria). Thousands of Australians followed the crime event as it unfolded via the mainstream news and online. On Sunday 23 September, a Facebook group ‘Help Us Find Jill Meagher’ was created, accumulating 90,000 followers in just four days, while the hashtags #jillmeagher and #meagher were two of the highest trending topics on Twitter across Australia. This article focuses on the social media narrative constructions of this crime: from Jill’s initial disappearance, to the identification of her alleged killer and discovery of her body, through to the street march held in her memory on Sunday 30 September 2012. Through a qualitative analysis of a Twitter dataset comprising over 7000 original tweets, the article explores meta-narratives of sexual victimisation, ‘risk’ and ‘safety’, as well as ‘digilantism’ and activism that characterised Australian Twitter users’ responses to this violent crime. In doing so, the article reflects on collective practices of meaning-making in response to public crime events that are enabled in a digital society.
Acidosis counteracts itch tachyphylaxis to consecutive pruritogen exposure dependent on acid-sensing ion channel 3
Authors: Jiang Yi-Ming , Huang Chen , Peng Zhong , Han Shao-Ling , Li Wei-Guang , Zhu Michael Xi , Xu Tian-Le
Published: July 2017

Tachyphylaxis of itch refers to a markedly reduced scratching response to consecutive exposures of a pruritogen, a process thought to protect against tissue damage by incessant scratching and to become disrupted in chronic itch. Here, we report that a strong stimulation of the Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptor C11 by its agonist, Ser-Leu-Ile-Gly-Arg-Leu-NH2 (SL-NH2) or bovine adrenal medulla 8-22 peptide, via subcutaneous injection in mice induces tachyphylaxis to the subsequent application of SL-NH2 to the same site. Notably, co-application of acid and SL-NH2 following the initial injection of the pruritogen alone counteracted itch tachyphylaxis by augmenting the scratching behaviors in wild-type but not in acid-sensing ion channel 3-null, animals. Using an activity-dependent silencing strategy, we identified that acid-sensing ion channel 3-mediated itch enhancement mainly occurred via the Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptor C11-responsive sensory neurons. Together, our results indicate that acid-sensing ion channel 3, activated by concomitant acid and certain pruritogens, constitute a novel signaling pathway that counteracts itch tachyphylaxis to successive pruritogenic stimulation, which likely contributes to chronic itch associated with tissue acidosis.