bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical modeling of the critical conditions for ductile-regime milling of single crystalline silicon
Authors: Cheng Xiang , Li Li , Huang Yumei , Yang Xianhai , Zhou Shuangjie
Published: July 2014

This paper introduces a new method to build a general model for estimating the critical micromilling conditions for single crystalline silicon by considering micromilling process variables based on the generally-accepted indentation model. The analytical results show that cutting edge radius and the feed rate affect the critical conditions greatly. Furthermore, the step over percentage of the cutter radius affects the critical feed rates and the machining efficiency. It shows that an appropriate cutting edge radius is the key factor to achieve high machining efficiency while ductile-regime micromilling conditions are satisfied.
Experimental investigation on new low cycle fatigue precision cropping process
Authors: Zhao Renfeng , Zhao Shengdun , Zhong Bin , Tang Yong
Published: July 2014

The traditional cropping processes have some disadvantages, such as poor surface quality, low yield, the waste of materials, and high energy consumption. The low cycle fatigue precision cropping process with circumferential loading, which is a new type of precision cropping process, is studied. According to the stress concentration effect of the V-shape notch, the fatigue crack on the tip of the V-shape notch is prompted to initiate and extend. The working principle of the precision cropping machine is described. The criterion that whether the crack on the root of the V-shape notch is initiated or not is provided under the effect of low cycle fatigue loading. The materials which are 0.2%C steel, H59 copper, 0.45%C steel, 20Cr steel, and LY12 aluminum are tested under two control curves. The initiation and propagation of crack are accelerated and the good cross sections of the metal bar are obtained. The results show that the mean stress of the metal bar in the cropping process can be effectively reduced due to the stress concentration effect of the V-shape notch. The metal bar’s stable crack propagation and fracture can be obtained when constantly increasing striking displacement and reducing the striking frequency in the cropping process at the same time in the process.
Rotordynamics analysis of a quill-shaft coupling-rotor-bearing system
Authors: Feng S , Geng HP , Yu L
Published: July 2014

A quill-shaft coupling-rotor-bearing system is modeled and reported in this paper. The system consists of two rotors connected by a quill-shaft coupling in which each rotor is supported by two bearings. The stiffness matrix of the quill-shaft coupling is deduced and the equation of motion of the system is obtained by using the finite element method. Finally, the rotordynamics analysis of the system is conducted. The numerical results show that more frequency veering points occur for the quill-shaft coupling-rotor-bearing system compared with those of single rotor. In addition, the stiffness of the flexural element has significant effects on the first bending natural frequency of the quill shaft when the length of the quill shaft becomes shorter.
Dynamic vibratory motion analysis of a multi-degree-of-freedom torsional system with strongly stiff nonlinearities
Authors: Yoon Jong-yun , Lee Hyeongill
Published: July 2014

Physical driveline systems have inherent nonlinearities such as multiple piecewise linear springs, gear backlashes, and drag torques. The multi-staged clutch dampers, in particular, cause severe problems in simulating the nonlinear dynamic behaviors of multi-degree-of-freedom systems. In order to analyze the nonlinear dynamic behaviors of the system, the harmonic balance method has been employed. This study suggests a method to overcome the convergence problems with strong nonlinearities by employing two distinct smoothening factors for stiffness and hysteresis. First, the dynamic behaviors of the multi-degree-of-freedom torsional system are investigated by employing multi-staged clutch dampers subjected to a sinusoidal excitation. Second, the effects of system parameters are examined with respect to dynamic characteristics of torsional vibration. The regimes of resonance frequencies along with the relevant parameters of the system are investigated by calculating backbone curves, which reduce the calculation time significantly. In order to validate harmonic balance method simulation, the simulated results are compared with those of numerical simulation. Harmonic balance method is shown to be more efficient than numerical simulation in calculating the nonlinear frequency response, as well as in simulating the steady-state responses without transient response effect.
Class as a semiotic resource in consumer advertising: Markedness, heteroglossia, and commodity temporalities
Authors: Callier Patrick
Published: July 2014

This article critically examines the mass-mediated portrayal of social class and commodity formulation in a corpus of US television advertisements for the Ford F-150 pickup truck, aired in 2007. The use of stereotypical diacritics of white-collar and blue-collar social identities in the ads circulates a representation of class identities as consumer categories, even as the ads’ portrayals of class difference reproduce hegemonic relationships of markedness between ‘middle-class’ consumers and other social categories. Examining representations of different phases of commodity formulation and social voices loosely associated with these phases, I show how various social identities are subjugated to the commercial ends of the advertising encounter, and how the advertisements both induce consumer behavior as well as reshape hegemonic understandings of social difference and inequality.
Horror films and psychiatry
Authors: Friedman Susan Hatters , Forcen Fernando Espi , Shand John Preston
Published: July 2014

Objectives:

Horror films have been popular for generations. The purpose of this article is to illustrate psychiatric conditions, themes and practice seen in horror films.

Conclusions:

Horror films often either include psychiatrists as characters or depict (Hollywood’s dangerous version of) serious mental illness. Demonic possession, zombies, and ‘slasher’ killers are described, as well as the horror genre’s characterizations of psychiatrists.
Strategies for Teaching Self-Determination Skills in Conjunction With the Common Core
Authors: Rowe Dawn A. , Mazzotti Valerie L. , Sinclair James
Published: July 2014

College and career readiness for all students includes supporting the needs of students with disabilities. Ensuring students with disabilities are college and career ready goes beyond academics and must include self-determination skill development. As schools adapt to the implementation of the Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), it is necessary for teachers to identify ways to teach self-determination skill instruction in conjunction with the CCSS, while considering the needs of students in a MTSS. This article provides teachers with step-by-step instructions for implementing two evidence-based strategies for teaching self-determination skills in the general curriculum supporting students in an MTSS.
Using Content Acquisition Podcasts to Deliver Core Content to Preservice Teacher Candidates
Authors: Kennedy Michael J. , Kellems Ryan O. , Thomas Cathy Newman , Newton Jennifer R.
Published: July 2014

Teacher educators are always looking for instructional strategies that are easy to create and use but are powerful for promoting learning among preservice teacher candidates. Content acquisition podcasts (CAPs) is an example of an instructional strategy that embeds evidence-based instructional design principles to package and deliver critical content in courses such as introductory and foundational special education classes. In this column, a brief overview of current problems of practice that create a need for CAPs, a review research on the use of CAPs for preservice teacher education, and an overview of the processes used to create CAPs are provided.
Multiplicity of Child Maltreatment and Biopsychosocial Outcomes in Young Adulthood
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Probst Danielle R. , Rodenhizer-Stämpfli Kara Anne , Gidycz Christine A. , Tansill Erin C.
Published: July 2014

This study examined the moderating role of resiliency characteristics in the relationship between multiplicity of child maltreatment and biopsychosocial outcomes (i.e., psychological, physical, and interpersonal distress) in young adulthood. Participants included 765 college women who completed surveys. Structural equation modeling showed that resiliency characteristics moderated the relationship between multiplicity of child maltreatment and psychological distress; at high levels of resiliency characteristics, there was a nonsignificant relationship between multiplicity of child maltreatment and psychological distress. There was no evidence of moderation for physical or interpersonal distress. However, for both interpersonal and physical distress, the main effects of multiplicity of child maltreatment were positively related to each form of distress, and the main effect of resiliency characteristics was negatively related to each form of distress. These findings underscore the importance of promoting resiliency characteristics among survivors of multiplicity of child maltreatment to promote optimal functioning.
Feminism, Status Inconsistency, and Women’s Intimate Partner Victimization in Heterosexual Relationships
Authors: Franklin Cortney A. , Menaker Tasha A.
Published: July 2014

This study used a random community sample of 303 women in romantic relationships to investigate the role of educational and employment status inconsistency and patriarchal family ideology as risk factors for intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization, while considering demographic factors and relationship context variables. Sequential multivariate logistic regression models demonstrated a decrease in the odds of IPV victimization for Hispanic women and women who were older as compared with their counterparts. In addition, increased relationship distress, family-of-origin violence, and employment status inconsistency significantly increased the odds of IPV. Clinical intervention strategies and future research directions are discussed.
Factors affecting urine specific gravity in apparently healthy cats presenting to first opinion practice for routine evaluation
Authors: Rishniw Mark , Bicalho Rodrigo
Published: July 2014

Evidence suggests that apparently healthy cats presenting for routine evaluation should have a randomly sampled urine specific gravity (USG) >1.035. A USG <1.035 might reflect inappropriate concentrating ability warranting further investigation. We measured the USG of 1040 apparently healthy cats presenting to first opinion practice in an observational study, using either in-clinic refractometers or measurements provided by reference laboratories, and examined factors that might affect USG. In-clinic refractometers were calibrated using distilled water (specific gravity = 1.000). The USG was >1.030 in 91% of cats and >1.035 in 88% of cats; 121 adult cats (⩾6 months old) and five young cats (<6 months old) had USGs of <1.035. Of these 126 cats, a pathological cause was identified in 27 adult cats – of these, 26 were >9 years old – but no young cats. No cause was identified in 43 adult cats, and further investigation was not pursued in 51 adult cats. Factors that affected USG included age, diet type, sex, fasting status, drinking avidity, refractometer type, and the interaction between sex and diet – increasing dietary moisture content lowered USG only in female cats. Most factors minimally affected USG. The odds of having a USG <1.035 without apparent pathology included age and dietary moisture content. Drinking avidity decreased with increasing dietary moisture content. Our results show that most apparently healthy cats presenting to first-opinion practice should have a USG >1.035. Dietary management strategies to lower USG might be less effective than anticipated, and warrant monitoring of USG to determine efficacy. Older cats with USG <1.035 are more likely to have pathological causes identified, although clinicians are more likely to examine these cats for possible pathology. A lack of stringent refractometer calibration could have caused some errors in estimates of USG by some observers, but would be unlikely to alter markedly the findings.
Recovery of normal esophageal function in a kitten with diffuse megaesophagus and an occult lower esophageal stricture
Authors: Schneider Jaycie , Ames Marisa , DiCicco Michael , Savage Mason , Atkins Clarke , Wood Michael , Gookin Jody L
Published: July 2014

An 8-week-old male domestic shorthair was presented to the Internal Medicine Service at North Carolina State University for regurgitation. Radiographic diagnosis of generalized esophageal dilation and failure of esophageal peristalsis were compatible with diagnosis of congenital megaesophagus. Endoscopic examination of the esophagus revealed a fibrous stricture just orad to the lower esophageal sphincter. Conservative management to increase the body condition and size of the kitten consisted of feeding through a gastrostomy tube, during which time the esophagus regained normal peristaltic function, the stricture orifice widened in size and successful balloon dilatation of the stricture was performed. Esophageal endoscopy should be considered to rule out a stricture near the lower esophageal sphincter in kittens with radiographic findings suggestive of congenital megaesophagus. Management of such kittens by means of gastrostomy tube feeding may be associated with a return of normal esophageal motility and widening of the esophageal stricture, and facilitate subsequent success of interventional dilation of the esophageal stricture.
Adjustment as process and outcome: Measuring adjustment to HIV in Uganda
Authors: Martin Faith , Russell Steve , Seeley Janet
Published: July 2014

‘Adjustment’ in health refers to both processes and outcomes. Its measurement and conceptualisation in African cultures is limited. In total, 263 people living with HIV and receiving anti-retroviral therapy in clinics in Uganda completed a translated Mental Adjustment to HIV Scale, depression items from the Hopkins checklist and demographic questions. Factor analysis revealed four Mental Adjustment to HIV factors of active coping, cognitive–social adjustment, hopelessness and denial/avoidance. Correlations with depression supported the Mental Adjustment to HIV’s validity and the importance of active adjustment, while the role of cognitive adjustment was unclear. Factors were process or outcome focussed, suggesting a need for theory-based measures in general.
Translation as a pedagogical tool in the foreign language classroom: A qualitative study of attitudes and behaviours
Authors: Kelly Niamh , Bruen Jennifer
Published: July 2014

A review of the literature on language teaching reveals predominantly negative attitudes towards the use of translation in language teaching (TILT) (Cook, 2010). The purpose of this article is to explore the question of whether this negativity is reflected in the attitudes and behaviours of university lecturers engaged in language teaching as well as to consider the background and contextual factors associated with these attitudes and behaviours. A case study of one Irish Higher Education Institution was conducted, and qualitative interviews were carried out with six lecturers in Japanese and six in German in conjunction with a review of the relevant documentation including course outlines and module descriptors. The results indicated widespread support on the ground for the use of TILT in some form suggesting a need for further research on the impact of the use of TILT on the language learning process.
A teacher’s first language use in form-focused episodes in Spanish as a foreign language classroom
Authors: Nakatsukasa Kimi , Loewen Shawn
Published: July 2014

This study investigates a teacher’s L1 use during focus-on-form episodes (FFEs). FFEs assist L2 learning by bringing learners’ attention to language. We studied the language used in FFEs in a Spanish as a foreign language (SFL) classroom to better understand the pedagogical purposes of L1 use in the classroom. We video-recorded 12 hours of an intermediate-high SFL classroom with an L1 English teacher at a US university. The audio data was segmented into FFEs and then coded (English L1, Spanish L2, mix) to reflect the language used in each of the teacher’s utterances. We also identified the linguistic areas (e.g., grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation) targeted in the FFEs. Chi-square and descriptive statistics were used to understand the relationship between the teacher’s language and the linguistic areas. Lastly, using the same data set, we conducted a qualitative analysis in order to depict the situations in which the teacher employed the L1 and L2. There was a significant relationship between the teacher’s language and the FFEs’ linguistic areas. Specifically, the L1 and L2 were used equally when FFEs concerned vocabulary and grammar. However, when FFEs concerned semantics, frequent code-switching occurred. The qualitative data illustrate that the language choice may depend on the interactional patterns and the complexity of the linguistic structure.
Prescribing conduct: Enactments of talk or thought in advice-giving sequences
Authors: Sandlund Erica
Published: July 2014

In everyday interaction, people recurrently animate, enact, or report on talk or thought (Clift and Holt, 2007). In this article, enactments of hypothetical, non-narrative talk in advice-relevant sequences are examined, with a focus on their role in modeling desirable stance or conduct. Data consist of interactions in institutional settings, such as performance appraisal interviews, university teaching, and talk show counseling. It is demonstrated how enactments of possible talk are used as devices for hands-on demonstrations of proper or improper conduct in sequences involving orientations to some kind of problematic behavior or stance, which in turn works to make assessments about different types of conduct. The accomplishment of contrasts between desired and undesired conduct is central, and contributes to the assessment of particular behaviors or stances. Different delivery formats of enactments are examined and compared to the action accomplished. It is argued that modeling talk enactments (MTEs) constitute resources for doing implicit criticism and ‘positive socialization’ in interaction, and that through enactments, participants may perform both explicit and implicit moral work.
Making Up Gangs: Looping, Labelling and the New Politics of Intelligence-led Policing
Authors: Fraser Alistair , Atkinson Colin
Published: July 2014

The 2011 ‘summer of violent disorder’ in England cast a spotlight on the often arbitrary and uneven process through which individuals become labelled as ‘gang-members’. Based on data from two separate but concurrently conducted qualitative studies in Glasgow, Scotland, this article draws on the critical vocabularies of Bourdieu and Hacking to conceptualize this new frontier in the politics of gang policing: analysing the distinctive ‘fields’ that street-based young people and police actors inhabit; uncovering the complex chain of interactions through which individuals become labelled as ‘gang-members’; and exploring the consequences of such labelling processes.
A Question of Family? Youth and Gangs
Authors: Young Tara , Fitzgibbon Wendy , Silverstone Daniel
Published: July 2014

The role of the family as a key factor in encouraging gang membership and criminality is hotly debated. Recent political rhetoric in the UK has highlighted the correlation between ‘troubled families’ and the rise in youth crime and gang-related violence. This article is concerned with exploring the role of the family in the formation of gangs, gang-related criminality and desistance. The overall aim of the article is to review the research literature. It posits that the evidence that connects the family to ‘gang’ membership is far from conclusive and argues that the aetiology of gang formation and criminality cannot simply be reduced to poor home environments or ‘broken’ families.
Featured Article: Selective blockade of the OGF–OGFr pathway by naltrexone accelerates fibroblast proliferation and wound healing
Authors: Immonen Jessica A , Zagon Ian S , McLaughlin Patricia J
Published: July 2014

Naltrexone (NTX) is an opioid receptor antagonist that acts at classical and non-classical opioid receptors including the opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr). Animal models of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as well as normal rodents, have shown that topical NTX enhances the healing rates of corneal epithelium and full-thickness cutaneous wounds. The mechanism of this general opioid antagonist on growth, and in particular the specific receptor pathway involved, is not understood. Tissue culture studies using NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and primary rat auricular fibroblasts were established to evaluate growth following opioid receptor antagonist treatment. Treatment of cells with CTOP, naltrindole, or nalmefene, selective antagonists for mu, delta, and kappa opioid receptors, respectively, did not accelerate cell replication. Addition of the classical opioid receptor peptides DAMGO, DPDPE, or EKC did not alter cell growth, suggesting that the classical opioid receptors were not involved in cutaneous wound healing. However, NTX (10−6 M) increased the growth of NIH 3T3 fibroblasts in culture over a 96-h period, and the specific ligand OGF decreased cell growth, supporting that the OGF-OGFr axis is tonically active and constitutively expressed in fibroblasts, the primary cell type in granulation tissue of the skin. Transfection of NIH 3T3 cells with OGFr siRNA reduced receptor protein; subsequent treatment with NTX did not accelerate cell proliferation. These data indicate that blockade of the OGFr pathway enhances proliferation of fibroblasts in vitro, and in a primary culture of auricular fibroblasts, suggesting that the effect of NTX on growth is mediated through the OGF-OGFr axis. Finally, antagonists for classical opioid receptors as well as NTX were topically applied to cutaneous wounds in type 1 diabetic rats; only NTX accelerated wound closure. These studies indicate that the mechanistic pathway underlying the effects of NTX to enhance cutaneous wound closure in diabetic and nondiabetic subjects is specific blockade of the OGF–OGFr regulatory axis.
Symbolic Capital and Gender: Evidence from Two Cultural Fields
Authors: Miller Diana L.
Published: July 2014

This article builds a gendered understanding of Bourdieu’s concept of symbolic capital. Through a comparison of two cultural fields – the heavy metal scene and the contemporary folk scene in Toronto, Canada – I show that field structure impacts the extent to which gendered dispositions (which we can understand as masculine capital and feminine capital) are exchangeable for symbolic capital, or reputation. Using semi-structured interviews, discourse analysis, and participant observation, I highlight two features of the fields that shape the extent to which masculine and feminine capital produce symbolic capital: the degree to which symbolic capital is institutionalized, and the level of symbolic boundary-drawing in the field. The heavy metal field’s low institutionalization of symbolic capital and high symbolic boundaries heighten the salience of gender as a basis of symbolic capital, while the folk field’s high institutionalization of symbolic capital and low symbolic boundary-drawing reduce the extent to which gender matters.
A renal angiomyolipoma with extension to the renal vein and asymptomatic fat pulmonary embolus
Authors: Harris Kassem , Hatem Elie , Maroun Rabih , Seminara Donna , Maniatis Theodore
Published: July 2014

Renal angiomyolipoma (AML) is a rare benign tumor that can extend into the renal vein, inferior vena cava and the right atrium. AML is a mesenchymal tumor composed of smooth muscle, fat and vascular elements. In rare instances, the tumor may release a fatty tissue to the pulmonary vasculature, which can lead to cardiopulmonary collapse and death. Only four cases of fat pulmonary embolism secondary to AML have been reported in the literature but our case was the first to present as asymptomatic. Our patient had left renal AML extending to the renal vein that was associated with fat pulmonary embolus. The patient underwent uncomplicated radical nephrectomy and was discharged home on no anticoagulation. Follow-up chest computed tomography showed no extension of the pulmonary embolism. Whether embolectomy or anticoagulation is necessary in asymptomatic pulmonary embolism secondary to renal AML is unclear. Although controversial, some surgeons prefer to place an inferior vena cava filter prior to radical nephrectomy to prevent dislodgement of new intraoperative emboli, which can lead to catastrophic outcome.
The relationships between driver clubhead presentation characteristics, ball launch conditions and golf shot outcomes
Authors: Betzler Nils F , Monk Stuart A , Wallace Eric S , Otto Steve R
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to analyse the effects of clubhead presentation on golf ball launch conditions and the subsequent shot outcome. Clubhead presentation was measured using a three-dimensional motion capture system for both male and female golfers across a range of skill levels. A Doppler radar was used to track the golf ball during its flight, yielding speed, launch angles, spin rate and distance. Importantly, the measurements of clubhead and ball quantities were taken independently so that any inter-relationships could be evaluated without recourse to any preconceived models. This article provides values for the median launch conditions and shot outcome, and the associated variability in these quantities for golfers was grouped by handicap category and gender. It was shown that the variability in certain outcome quantities was more linked to golfing ability than others. Linear regression was used to demonstrate that differences in clubhead presentation resulted in changes to ball launch conditions as one might expect from physical analysis. Furthermore, the link between the variability in clubhead presentation and the variability in shot outcome was demonstrated. In particular, the importance of impact location variability in determining launch angle and total distance variability was shown.
Imaging in gout: A review of the recent developments
Authors: Chowalloor Priya Varghese , Siew Teck K. , Keen Helen Isobel
Published: July 2014

Gout is a common inflammatory arthritis and is caused by accumulation of monosodium urate crystals in joints and soft tissues. Apart from joint damage, untreated gout is associated with cardiovascular and renal morbidity. Gout, whilst in principle considered to be well understood and simple to treat, often presents diagnostic and management challenges, with evidence to suggest that it is often inadequately treated and poor compliance is a major issue. Imaging tools can aid clinicians in establishing the correct diagnosis, when histological crystal diagnosis is unable to be established, and also assess the burden of inflammatory and structural disease. Imaging can also be used to monitor treatment response. The imaging techniques that currently have a role in the imaging of gout include conventional radiography, ultrasound, computed tomography, dual energy computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. Despite the lack of major technological advances in imaging of gout in recent years, scientific studies of existing imaging modalities have improved our understanding of the disease, and how to best utilize imaging techniques in the clinical setting.
Role of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Analogue Versus Amylin as an Adjuvant Therapy in Type 1 Diabetes in a Closed Loop Setting With ePID Algorithm
Authors: Renukuntla Venkat Sasidhar , Ramchandani Neesha , Trast Jeniece , Cantwell Martin , Heptulla Rubina A.
Published: July 2014

Aims/Hypothesis:

Postprandial hyperglycemia due to paradoxical hyperglucagonemia is a major challenge of diabetes treatment despite the use of the artificial pancreas. We postulated that adjunctive therapy with pramlintide or exenatide would attenuate hyperglycemia in the postprandial phase through glucagon suppression, thereby optimizing the functioning of the closed-loop (CL) system.

Methods:

Subjects with type 1 diabetes (T1DM) on insulin pump therapy were recruited to participate in a 27-hour hospitalized admission on 3 occasions (2-4 weeks apart) and placed on the insulin delivery via CL system in random order to receive (1) insulin alone (control), (2) exenatide 2.5 µg + insulin, (3) pramlintide 30 µg + insulin. Medications were given prior to lunch and dinner, which was a standardized meal of 60 grams of carbohydrates. Insulin delivery was as per the ePID algorithm via the Medtronic CL system and continuous subcutaneous glucose monitoring via Medtronic Sof-sensors. Ten subjects age 23 ± 1 years with a HbA1c of 7.29 ± 0.3% (56 ± 1 mmol/mol) and duration of T1DM 10.6 ± 2.0 years participated in the 3-part study.

Results:

Exenatide was found to be significantly better in attenuating postprandial hyperglycemia as compared to insulin monotherapy ( P < .03) and pramlintide ( P > .05). Glucagon suppression was statistically significant with exenatide ( P < .03) as compared to pramlintide. Insulin requirements were lower with adjunctive therapy, but statistically insignificant.

Conclusions/Interpretations:

Insulin monotherapy results in postprandial hyperglycemia in T1DM in the CL setting and adjunctive therapy with exenatide reduces postprandial hyperglycemia effectively and should be considered as adjunctive therapy in T1DM.
Outcomes Related to a Standardized Feeding Approach for Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Johnson Michelle Marie
Published: July 2014

A standardized approach to feeding offers numerous beneficial outcomes for low birth weight infants. Statistically significant outcomes for a decreased incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) have been replicated across multiple studies. Studies with primary outcome measures of nutrition have found statistically significant improvements in days of parenteral nutrition, energy and protein intake from parenteral and enteral nutrition, days nil per os after feeds had been started, and days to achieve full enteral caloric feeds. Extremely low birth weight infants achieved 120 and 160 mL/kg per day significantly faster and with a significantly decreased incidence of NEC compared with controls. Additional studies with primary outcome measures of growth have found significantly lower days to return to birth weight, and significantly fewer infants discharged with weight <10th percentile. For infants born ≤29 weeks postmenstrual age, use of a standard approach to feeding resulted in significantly larger weights at 39 weeks postmenstrual age. Feeding protocols and structured evaluations of feeding tolerance decrease the variability of feeding practices within a neonatal intensive care unit. Individual feeding practices formed by experience and a fear of NEC can and should be replaced by consistency of feeding practices formed by evidence-based medicine, which may actually decrease the incidence of NEC.
Clinical Impact of Indirect Markers of Renal Function in Elderly Patients With Hip Fracture
Authors: López-Martínez Coral , Tovar-Rivera Emanuel , Becerra-Laparra Ivonne K. , Chávez-Tapia Norberto C.
Published: July 2014

Introduction:

There are risk factors associated with mortality in patients older than 70 years with hip fracture, including kidney function. However, indirect formulas to calculate glomerular filtration rate are not validated in patients older than 70 years. We analyzed whether the formula hematocrit, urea, and gender (HUGE) can be used as a prognostic factor.

Material and Methods:

A retrospective cohort study of 88 patients older than 70 years with a diagnosis of hip fracture. At admission, clinical and biochemical parameters were measured and glomerular filtration rate by Cockcroft-Gault, Modification Of Diet In Renal Disease (MDRD), Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI), and HUGE value. Accuracy to assess long-term mortality was analyzed with receiver–operating curve analysis. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify risk factor for mortality.

Results:

Sample included 88 patients; overall mortality was 13.63%, 17.85%, 28.57%, and 75.85% at 6 months, 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. There was no significant difference in glomerular filtration rate by different formulas, contrary to HUGE, with higher values in the mortality group (1.83 ± 6.38 vs −2.61 ± 2.70, P = .0001). Survival was lower in patients with higher HUGE values (22.7 months, 95% confidence interval [CI] 16.1-29.5 vs 32.9 months, 95% CI 30.2-35.7; P ≤ .001). In the Cox regression analysis, a negative HUGE value is associated with lower mortality (hazards ratio = 0.238; 95% CI 0.568-0.099).

Conclusion:

The HUGE formula is an independent risk factor for mortality in elderly patients with hip fracture, but not the glomerular filtration rate determined by Cockcroft-Gault, MDRD, and CKD-EPI.
Martyrdom and Legacy of Blood
Authors: Partow Negar
Published: July 2014

Martyrdom operations as a means to achieve political ends gained currency in the Middle East since the 1980s. Violent extremist groups justified such operations with the theological idea of sacrifice for the cause of the ummah. The article argues that it was Khomeini who first promoted the idea of resistance through creating a connection between the theological notion of martyrdom and modern politics. Ritual sacrifice has been present in many societies and plays the role of communicating specific concepts or social and political structures. In the case of Shias, Ashura denotes the spirit of sacrifice as a test for loyalty toward God, which was used by Khomeini to communicate the connection between theology and the act of sacrifice in the modern political context. The idea became popular in the region, cutting across sectarian divide due to its nationalistic flavor. This article explores the transformation of the concept of martyrdom in Iranian Shias and its exportation to Sunni political groups in the region. By using theories on the role of sacrificial rituals in social construction of authority and hierarchy, this article claims that the re-traditionalized concept of martyrdom could only be meaningful in the context of modern politics and territorial sovereignty.
Examining AKP’s Impact on Turkey’s Domestic and Foreign Policy
Authors: Kumar S.M. Leslie Keerthi
Published: July 2014

The conservative AKP came to power in Turkey in 2002 and ever since, it has been accused of following an Islam-driven domestic and foreign policy by many critics. This article argues that AKP has pursued only a moderate conservative agenda in the domestic arena which is consistent with its claims of being a conservative democratic party akin to similar parties in the West. In the foreign policy front, the article traces the historic evolution of Turkey’s foreign policy to show that AKP has only followed the Ozalist approach that originated in the 1980s. Thus, the article concludes against the notion that AKP’s foreign and domestic policies are driven by an Islamic ideology.
Characteristics affecting oral anticoagulant therapy choice among patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation: a retrospective claims analysis
Authors: AbuDagga Azza , Stephenson Judith J , Fu An-Chen , Kwong Winghan Jacqueline , Tan Hiangkiat , Weintraub William S
Published: July 2014

Background

Dabigatran is one of the three newer oral anticoagulants (OACs) recently approved in the United States for stroke prevention in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) patients. The objective of this study was to identify patient, healthcare provider, and health plan factors associated with dabigatran versus warfarin use among NVAF patients.

Methods

Administrative claims data from patients with ≥2 NVAF medical claims in the HealthCore Integrated Research Database between 10/1/2009 and 10/31/2011 were analyzed. During the study intake period (10/1/2010 - 10/31/2011), dabigatran patients had ≥2 dabigatran prescriptions, warfarin patients had ≥2 warfarin and no dabigatran prescriptions, and the first oral anticoagulant (OAC) prescription date was the index date. Continuous enrollment for 12 months preceding (“pre-index”) and ≥ 6 months following the index date was required. Patients without pre-index warfarin use were assigned to the ‘OAC-naïve’ subgroup. Separate analyses were performed for ‘all-patient’ and ‘OAC-naïve’ cohorts. Multivariable logistic regression (LR) identified factors associated with dabigatran versus warfarin use.

Results

Of 20,320 patients (3,019 dabigatran and 17,301 warfarin) who met study criteria, 27% of dabigatran and 13% of warfarin patients were OAC-naïve. Among all-patients, dabigatran patients were younger (mean 67 versus 73 years, p < 0.001), predominantly male (71% versus 61%, p < 0.001), and more frequently had a cardiologist prescriber (51% versus 30%, p < 0.001) than warfarin patients. Warfarin patients had higher pre-index Elixhauser Comorbidity Index (mean: 4.3 versus 4.0, p < 0.001) and higher ATRIA bleeding risk score (mean: 3.0 versus 2.3, p < 0.001). LR results were generally consistent between all- and OAC-naïve patients. Among OAC-naïve patients, strongest factors associated with dabigatran use were prescriber specialty (OR = 3.59, 95% CI 2.68-4.81 for cardiologist; OR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.65-2.97 for other specialist), health plan type (OR = 1.47 95% CI 1.10-1.96 for preferred provider organization), and prior ischemic stroke (OR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.06-1.90). Older age decreased the probability of dabigatran use.

Conclusions

Beside patient characteristics, cardiology specialty of the prescribing physician and health plan type were the strongest factors associated with dabigatran use.
Complex microstructures of ABC triblock copolymer thin films directed by polymer brushes based on self-consistent field theory
Authors: Jiang Zhibin , Xu Chang , Qiu Yu dong , Wang Xiaoliang , Zhou Dongshan , Xue Gi
Published: July 2014

The morphology and the phase diagram of ABC triblock copolymer thin film directed by polymer brushes are investigated by the self-consistent field theory in three dimensions. The polymer brushes coated on the substrate can be used as a good soft template to tailor the morphology of the block copolymer thin films compared with those on the hard substrates. The polymer brush is identical with the middle block B. By continuously changing the composition of the block copolymer, the phase diagrams are constructed for three cases with the fixed film thickness and the brush density: identical interaction parameters, frustrated and non-frustrated cases. Some ordered complex morphologies are observed: parallel lamellar phase with hexagonally packed pores at surfaces (LAM3ll-HFs), perpendicular lamellar phase with cylinders at the interface (LAM⊥-CI), and perpendicular hexagonally packed cylinders phase with rings at the interface (C2⊥-RI). A desired direction (perpendicular or parallel to the coated surfaces) of lamellar phases or cylindrical phases can be obtained by varying the composition and the interactions between different blocks. The phase diagram of ABC triblock copolymer thin film wetted between the polymer brush-coated surfaces is very useful in designing the directed pattern of ABC triblock copolymer thin film.
Differential expression of transforming growth factor-beta in benign vs. papillary thyroid cancer nodules; a potential diagnostic tool?
Authors: Brace Matthew D , Wang Jun , Petten Mark , Bullock Martin J , Makki Fawaz , Trites Jonathan , Taylor S Mark , Hart Robert D
Published: July 2014

Background

Thyroid nodules are common, but only 5% of nodules are found to be malignant. In North America, the incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing. Fine needle aspirate (FNA) biopsy is the diagnostic test of choice. Unfortunately, up to 20% of FNAs are non-diagnostic. A specific molecular marker for thyroid cancer is desirable. Evidence suggests that cell signaling through transforming growth factor beta (TGF- β) is important in the development of thyroid cancer. We sought to compare the expression of TGF- β in malignant and benign thyroid nodules.

Methods

From 2008-present, thyroid nodule tissue from thyroidectomy specimens was prospectively collected and stored at −80°C. RNA extraction and reverse transcription was performed on 47 samples (24 papillary thyroid cancer and 23 benign nodules). Quantitative PCR using SYBR green was performed to detect TGF-β-1 and −2. Resulting CT values were normalized against β-actin. Gene expression was calculated using the 2-ΔC T method.

Results

A significantly greater expression of TGF- β1 (p < 0.0001) was detected in the group of malignant thyroid nodules compared to benign nodules. There was no difference in the expression of TGF- β2 (p = 0.4735) between the two groups.

Conclusions

In this study, we demonstrated that expression of TGF- β1 but not TGF- β2 is significantly increased in papillary thyroid cancer compared to benign thyroid nodules. This may serve as a potential diagnostic marker for papillary thyroid cancer.
Bioanalytical method for quantification of Solifenacin in rat plasma by LC-MS/MS and its application to pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Puttagunta Srinivasa Babu , Shaik Rihana Parveen , Bannoth Chandrasekhar Kothapalli , Challa Bala Sekhara Reddy , Awen Bahlul Zayed Sh
Published: July 2014

Background

Solifenacin succinate is a competitive muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist used in the treatment of overactive bladder with or without urge incontinence.

Methods

Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was used for quantification of Solifenacin (SF) in rat plasma. Solifenacin-d5 (SFD5) used as an internal standard. Chromatographic separation was performed Gemini-NX C18, 50 × 4.6 mm, 5 µm, 110 Å column. Mobile phase composed of 5 mM Ammonium formate, pH 3.0: methanol (20:80 v/v), with 0.4 mL/min flow-rate. Drug and IS were extracted by Liquid- liquid extraction method. SF and SFD5 were detected with proton adducts at m/z 363.2®193.2 and 368.2®198.2 in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) positive mode respectively. The method was validated with the correlation coefficients of (r2) ≥ 0.9975 over a linear concentration range of 0.1-100.0 ng/mL.

Results

This method demonstrated intra and inter-day precision within 1.09 to 4.84 and 1.75 to 7.68 % and accuracy within 101.21 to 106.67 and 97.94 to 104.79 % for SF.

Conclusions

This method is successfully applied in the Pharmacokinetic study of rat plasma.
Chronic alcohol ingestion modulates hepatic macrophage populations and functions in mice
Authors: Wang Meng , You Qiang , Lor Kenton , Chen Fangfang , Gao Bin , Ju Cynthia
Published: July 2014

Hepatic Macs, consisting of resident KCs and infiltrating monocytes/IMs, are thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of ALD. Previous work has focused on KCs or studied hepatic Macs as one cell population. The aim of the current study is to distinguish IMs from KCs and to compare their phenotypes and functions. We show here that a 4-week ethanol feeding of C57BL/6J mice causes recruitment of IMs into the liver. KCs and IMs can be distinguished based on their differential expression of F4/80 and CD11b. IMs can be divided further into two subsets based on their differential expression of Ly6C. KCs and two subsets of IMs were separately purified by FACS. The phagocytosis abilities and the expression profiles of genes related to various functions were compared among different populations of hepatic Macs. Ly6Clow IMs exhibit an anti-inflammatory and tissue-protective phenotype; in contrast, Ly6Chi IMs exhibit a proinflammatory, tissue-damaging phenotype. The ratio of Ly6Chi/Ly6Clow increases when mice chronically fed ethanol were binged, which significantly enhanced liver injury. Moreover, upon phagocytosis of apoptotic hepatocytes, Ly6Chi IMs switch to Ly6Clow IMs. Taken together, chronic ethanol feeding induces the recruitment of two subsets of hepatic IMs, which play different or even opposite roles in regulating liver inflammation and repair. These findings may not only increase our understanding of the complex functions of Macs in the pathogenesis of ALD but also help us to identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of this disease.
A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Alendronate Treatment for Fibrous Dysplasia of Bone
Authors: Boyce Alison M. , Kelly Marilyn H. , Brillante Beth A. , Kushner Harvey , Wientroub Shlomo , Riminucci Mara , Bianco Paolo , Robey Pamela G. , Collins Michael T.
Published: July 2014

Context:

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is a rare skeletal disorder, resulting in deformity, fracture, functional impairment, and pain. Bisphosphonates have been advocated as a potential treatment.

Objective:

To determine the efficacy of alendronate for treatment of FD.

Design:

Two-year randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.

Setting:

Clinical research center.

Patients:

Forty subjects with polyostotic FD (24 adults, 16 children). Subjects were randomized and stratified by age.

Interventions:

Study drug was administered over a 24 month period in 6 month cycles (6 months on, 6 months off). Alendronate dosing was stratified: 40 mg daily for subjects >50 kg, 20 mg for 30–50 kg, 10 mg for 20–30 kg.

Main Outcome Measures:

Primary endpoints were bone turnover markers, including serum osteocalcin, and urinary NTX-telopeptides. Secondary endpoints included areal bone mineral density (aBMD), pain, skeletal disease burden score, and functional parameters including the 9-min walk test and manual muscle testing.

Results:

Clinical data was collected on 35 subjects who completed the study. There was a decline in NTX-telopeptides in the alendronate group (P = .006), but no significant difference in osteocalcin between groups. The alendronate group had an increase in areal BMD in normal bone at the lumbar spine (P = .006), and in predetermined regions of FD (P < .001). There were no significant differences in pain scores, skeletal disease burden scores, or functional parameters between the groups.

Conclusions:

Alendronate treatment led to a reduction in the bone resorption marker NTX-telopeptides, and improvement in aBMD, but no significant effect on serum osteocalcin, pain, or functional parameters.
Pt Nanoparticles Loaded on Reduced Graphene Oxide as an Effective Catalyst for the Direct Oxidation of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to Produce 2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid (FDCA) under Mild Conditions
Authors: Niu Wenqi , Wang Ding , Yang Guohui , Sun Jian , Wu Mingbo , Yoneyama Yoshiharu , Tsubaki Noritatsu
Published: July 2014

Reduced graphene oxide (RGO) is one of the most promising catalyst supports because it has faintly acidic sites together with a large amount of functional groups on its surface. In this report, we prove that, for the first time, Pt-loaded RGO (Pt/RGO) is an efficient, robust, and durable catalyst for oxidizing 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) directly to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) under mild conditions. The selectivity of FDCA reaches up to 84% along with 100% HMF conversion in the presence of excess base. We deduce that the total reaction on the Pt/RGO catalyst includes several consecutive steps, in which 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furancarboxylic acid (HMFCA) acts as an intermediate. The finding in this report is a significant advancement not only for RGO-based catalyst development, but also for scalable FDCA production, because the total reaction is performed smoothly without using the previously reported harsh reaction conditions.