bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poly(vinyl alcohol)/chitosan/montmorillonite nanocomposites for food packaging applications
Authors: Butnaru Elena , Cheaburu Catalina Natalia , Yilmaz Onur , Pricope Gina Mihaela , Vasile Cornelia
Published: December 2015

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/chitosan (CS)/montmorillonite (C30B) materials for food packaging applications were prepared by using a noninvasive and low-cost freeze/thawing method. Cloisite 30B nanoclay content in PVA/CS gels was varied in order to establish optimum amount to obtain improved properties. The structural, morphological, rheological aspects, thermal stability, and antimicrobial activity were investigated using various techniques as Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, rheology, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and antibacterial tests. It was noticed that the obtained materials show an intercalated structure with specific interactions between components and nanoclay incorporation led to an increased thermal stability, mechanical properties, and excellent antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella typhimurium due to synergistic action of CS and nanoclay.
In situ determination of dynamic stiffness for resilient elements
Authors: Meggitt JWR , Elliott AS , Moorhouse AT , Lai H Kevin
Published: December 2015

An in situ method for the measurement of a resilient elements dynamic transfer stiffness is outlined and validated. Unlike current methods, the proposed in situ approach allows for the characterisation of a resilient element whilst incorporated into an assembly, and therefore under representative mounting conditions. Potential advantages of the proposed method include the simultaneous attainment of both translational and rotational transfer stiffness components over a broad frequency range without the need for any cumbersome test rigs. These rotational components are obtained via the application of a finite difference approximation. A further advantage is provided via an extension to the method allowing for the use of remote measurement positions. Such an extension allows for the possible characterisation of hard-to-reach elements, as well as the over-determination of the problem. The proposed method can thus be broken into two sub-methods: direct and remote. Preliminary results are shown for the direct method on a simple mass-isolator-mass laboratory test rig along with a more realistic beam-isolator-plate system. Validation of this method is provided for by a transmissibility prediction, in which an obtained dynamic stiffness value is used to predict the transmissibility of a separate system. Further results are presented for the remote case using a beam-isolator-plate system. In all cases the results are obtained over a substantial frequency range and are of a sufficient quality to be used as part of structure borne sound and vibration predictions.
Making UFOs make sense: Ufology, science, and the history of their mutual mistrust
Authors: Eghigian Greg
Published: December 2015

Reports of unidentified flying objects and alien encounters have sparked amateur research (ufology), government investigations, and popular interest in the subject. Historically, however, scientists have generally greeted the topic with skepticism, most often dismissing ufology as pseudoscience and believers in unidentified flying objects and aliens as irrational or abnormal. Believers, in turn, have expressed doubts about the accuracy of academic science. This study examines the historical sources of the mutual mistrust between ufologists and scientists. It demonstrates that any science doubt surrounding unidentified flying objects and aliens was not primarily due to the ignorance of ufologists about science, but rather a product of the respective research practices of and relations between ufology, the sciences, and government investigative bodies.
Crucial contextual attributes of nursing leadership towards a care ethics
Authors: Gustafsson Lena-Karin , Stenberg Maja
Published: December 2015

Background:

It is of importance to understand and communicate caring ethics as a ground for qualitative caring environments. Research is needed on nursing attributes that are visible in nursing leadership since it may give bases for reflections related to the patterns of specific contexts.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of crucial attributes in nursing leadership toward an ethical care of patients in psychiatric in-patient settings.

Research design:

The design of the study was descriptive and qualitative with a phenomenological hermeneutical approach.

Participants and research context:

The study comprised focus group interviews with nurses working in indoor psychiatric care who participated after giving informed consent.

Ethical considerations:

Since the topic and informants are not labeled as sensitive and subject to ethical approval, it is not covered by the ethics committee’s aim and purpose according to Swedish law. However, careful procedures have been followed according to ethics expressed in the Declaration of Helsinki.

Findings:

When identifying the thematic structures, analysis resulted in three major themes: To supply, including the following aspects: to supply evidence, to supply common space, and to supply good structures; To support, including the following aspects: to be a role model, to show appreciation and care, and to harbor; To shield, including the following aspects: to advocate, to emit non-tolerance of unethical behavior, and to reprove.

Discussion:

Leadership is challenging for nurses and plays an important role in ethical qualitative care. These findings should not be understood as a description about nurse manager’s role, which probably has different attributes and more focus on an organizational level.

Conclusion:

Making the understanding about crucial attributes explicit, the nurse may receive confirmation and recognition of crucial attributes for ethical care in order to move toward an ethical care.
Managerial Myopia in Mismanaging Renewable Resources
Authors: Barnabè Federico
Published: December 2015

Background. Previous research demonstrates three main causes for frequent cases of overexploitation of renewable resources: open access, provision problem and misperception of dynamics.

Aim. The aim of this study is to explore the role of a fourth factor for overexploitation of renewable resources, managerial myopia (also referred to as short-termism), as well as to further explore the role of mental models, personal heuristics and group dynamics in mismanagement of renewable resources.

Method. For this purpose, the study adopts an experimental design using a System Dynamics (SD)-based Interactive Learning Environment (ILE). The SD-ILE offers sufficient information to the players who are instructed to operate in an oligopoly situation where open access is excluded.

Findings. Managerial myopia seems to be a relevant factor in pushing players to develop short-term, over-aggressive policies. The simulations show that optimal or sufficient policies are rejected by players, even when correctly identified, due to perverse incentives generated by short-term accounting goals. A feasible solution for myopic behavior is identified and tested: measuring a larger, balanced set of performance indicators on which managers develop their strategies.

Conclusions. The experiment shows that significant improvements in performance and mitigation of myopic behavior are possible. It also demonstrates the relevant role that SD-ILEs may play in studying renewable resource issues and assisting decision-makers in developing and implementing coherent policies.
Synchronous Mobile Audio-Visual Recording Technology (SMART) Cart for Healthcare Simulation Debriefing
Authors: Stephanian Don , Sawyer Taylor , Reid Jennifer , Stone Kimberly , Roberts Joan , Thompson Douglas , Pendergrass Tom
Published: December 2015

Introduction. Video-assisted debriefing is commonly used in healthcare simulation. The ability to conduct video-assisted debriefing during in situ simulation is limited by the capacity to quickly and easily record and playback video in the clinical environment.

Methods. We developed the Synchronous Mobile Audio-visual Recording Technology Cart (SMART-Cart) to improve the ability to conduct video-assisted debriefing during in situ simulation. The SMART-Cart is composed of a compact metal cart, integrated dual wide-angled pan-tilt-zoom cameras, microphones, high-performance audio-video computer with two rear facing video monitors, and a large front-facing video screen positioned for easy video playback and review.

Results. During pilot-testing involving 75 simulations with the capture of over 10 GB of audiovisual data, the SMART-Cart functioned extremely well with no technical issues. Setup and take down speeds were significantly faster using the SMART-Cart as compared to traditional in situ video debriefing methods. Use of the SMART-Cart was also resulted in a 50% reduction in the overall foot-print of the simulation recording equipment.

Discussion. Based on our experience, the SMART-Cart provides a fast and reliable option to facilitate video-assisted debriefing during in situ simulation. Further investigation into the process of video-assisted debriefing using the SMART-Cart are warranted.
Dual Effects of Job Complexity on Proactive and Responsive Creativity: Moderating Role of Employee Ambiguity Tolerance
Authors: Sung Sun Young , Antefelt Andreas , Choi Jin Nam
Published: December 2015

Departing from existing studies based on general notion of creativity, we highlight the driver or initiating force behind creative engagement in organizations. To this end, we distinguish between proactive and responsive creativity and provide a nuanced perspective on the processes underlying distinct types of employee creativity. We propose that job complexity indirectly affects proactive and responsive creativity of employees by promoting psychological empowerment and cognitive overload, respectively. The ambiguity tolerance of employees is hypothesized to moderate the indirect effects of job complexity on the two types of creativity. Data collected from 143 employee–supervisor dyads in various companies in Sweden and Korea supported most of our hypotheses. For employees with high ambiguity tolerance, job complexity exhibited a significant indirect effect on proactive creativity through psychological empowerment. For employees with low ambiguity tolerance, job complexity exerted a significant indirect effect on responsive creativity via cognitive overload. By revealing distinct psychological paths toward different types of creativity and identifying a boundary condition for such processes, the present study provides an ecologically valid explanation regarding creativity in organizations.
Sexual Orientation Self-Concept Ambiguity: Scale Adaptation and Validation
Authors: Talley Amelia E. , Stevens Jordan E.
Published: December 2015

The current article describes the adaptation of a measure of sexual orientation self-concept ambiguity (SSA) from an existing measure of general self-concept clarity. Latent “trait” scores of SSA reflect the extent to which a person’s beliefs about their own sexual orientation are perceived as inconsistent, unreliable, or incongruent. Sexual minority and heterosexual women ( n = 348), ages 18 to 30, completed a cross-sectional survey. Categorical confirmatory factor analysis guided the selection of items to form a 10-item, self-report measure of SSA. In the current report, we also examine (a) reliability of the 10-item scale score, (b) measurement invariance based on respondents’ sexual identity status and age group, and (c) correlations with preexisting surveys that purport to measure similar constructs and theoretical correlates. Evidence for internal reliability, measurement invariance (based on respondent sex), and convergent validity was also investigated in an independent, validation sample. The lowest SSA scores were reported by women who self-ascribed an exclusively heterosexual or exclusively lesbian/gay sexual identity, whereas those who reported a bisexual, mostly lesbian/gay, or mostly heterosexual identity, reported relatively higher SSA scores.
Economic Voting and Multilevel Governance
Authors: Anderson Cameron D. , McGregor R. Michael , Moore Aaron A. , Stephenson Laura B.
Published: December 2015

Past work has shown that economic conditions influence electoral outcomes at multiple levels of government in Canada and in democratic states around the world. However, there is significant variation in the jurisdictional ability of different governments to influence economic conditions; in particular, municipal governments may be least able to influence the economy. As a result, voters may be less likely to hold municipal incumbents accountable for economic conditions than either provincial or federal politicians. Building on this discussion, this article explores several questions. First, do citizens differentiate between the impacts of different orders of government on economic conditions? Second, does the economy affect incumbent support in local elections? Finally, does knowledge of the jurisdictional responsibilities of the three levels of government condition economic effects at the municipal level in Canada? We consider these questions using individual-level data collected during the 2014 Toronto municipal election.
A note on a two-temperature model in linear thermoelasticity
Authors: Mukhopadhyay S , Picard R , Trostorff S , Waurick M
Published: December 2015

We discuss the so-called two-temperature model in linear thermoelasticity and provide a Hilbert space framework for proving well-posedness of the equations under consideration. With the abstract perspective of evolutionary equations, the two-temperature model turns out to be a coupled system of the elastic equations and an abstract ordinary differential equation (ODE). Following this line of reasoning, we propose another model which is entirely an abstract ODE. We also highlight an alternative method for a two-temperature model, which might be of independent interest.
Prostate Specific Antigen
Authors: Alpert Patricia T.
Published: December 2015

The discovery of the prostate specific antigen (PSA) was a landmark achievement of the 20th century according to the American Cancer Society. As a result of this discovery, the PSA screening test was developed. Over the past few years, the mounting controversy over the specificity of this test led to revisions of the screening guidelines by several organizations. This article reviews the new PSA screening guidelines.
The veil and the search for the self: From identity politics to cultural expression
Authors: Baerveldt Cor
Published: December 2015

Wagner, Sen, Permanadeli and Howarth compare the reasons for wearing the veil of Muslim women in a Muslim majority society, Indonesia and in a society with a Muslim minority, India. They conclude that particularly Muslim minority women display a variety of reasons and strategies with regards to the headscarf, which according to Wagner et al. serve in the construction of identity and as a means of opposition against stereotypes and prejudice. Taking the case of Muslim women in Western societies, I argue that the language of identity, stereotypes and prejudice is insufficient for understanding the agency of women donning the veil. Instead I propose a genetic cultural psychological approach focused on the cultivation of affect and the acquisition of durable bodily dispositions through cultural training. The veil is part of an entire expressive style and discursive accounts are only a minor part of that style. Recognizing that style – unlike propositional accounts – is inherently ambiguous and polysemic allows us to see how Muslim women are creating for themselves the space of an agency that is not primarily defined in terms of opposition or of other people's demands for proper reasons.
The experiences of adolescents with osteosarcoma during the one-year of treatment in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Wei-Wen , Liang Shu-Yuan , Hung Gung-Yi , Tsai Shao-Yu , Lee Tzu-Ying
Published: December 2015

Osteosarcoma (OS) typically occurs during puberty. The one-year treatment for OS can be very challenging. However, little empirical research has explored the experiences of adolescents with OS. This research explored the experiences of Taiwanese adolescents with OS, utilizing a qualitative inductive content analysis with in-depth interviews and field notes that captured interviewer observations. In total, 20 participants—aged between 10 and 19 years and being treated for OS—were recruited. Ten categories were extracted: disbelief, hope for recovery and maintaining body integrity, experience with physical symptoms, inappropriate sleep hygiene, experience of psychosocial distress, use of spirituality to recover from misfortune, information acquisition, preparation to return to school, interdependence, and dedication to hope of recovery. This is the first empirical qualitative study to explore the experiences of Taiwanese adolescents with OS during treatment since being diagnosed. Close surveillance of the compliance in rehabilitation and physical function is needed. Providing age-appropriate and culture-oriented support systems would be helpful for addressing their psychosocial difficulties. Social networking sites closely moderated by health professionals may be a feasible way enhancing psychosocial well-being. Conducting a descriptive exploratory qualitative study for further development of psychosocial supportive care interventions is recommended.
It ain’t easy eating greens: Evidence of bias toward vegetarians and vegans from both source and target
Authors: MacInnis Cara C. , Hodson Gordon
Published: December 2015

Vegetarianism and veganism are increasingly prevalent in Western countries, yet anecdotal expressions of negativity toward vegetarians and vegans are common. We empirically tested whether bias exists toward vegetarians and vegans. In Study 1 omnivores evaluated vegetarians and vegans equivalently or more negatively than several common prejudice target groups (e.g., Blacks). Bias was heightened among those higher in right-wing ideologies, explained by heightened perceptions of vegetarian/vegan threat. Vegans (vs. vegetarians) and male (vs. female) vegetarians/vegans were evaluated more negatively overall. In Study 2 omnivores evaluated vegetarians and vegans more negatively than several nutritional outgroups (e.g., gluten intolerants) and evaluated vegan/vegetarians motivated by animal rights or environmental concerns (vs. health) especially negatively. In Study 3, vegetarians and especially vegans reported experiencing negativity stemming from their diets. Empirically documenting antivegetarian/vegan bias adds to a growing literature finding bias toward benign yet social norm-challenging others.
Teaching qualitative research: Key content, course structures, and recommendations
Authors: Drisko James W
Published: December 2015

This article examines the interdisciplinary literature in order to define core content areas and course structures used in teaching qualitative research. The available literature on teaching qualitative research is very small and consists mainly of “one off” papers that do not develop topics in depth. This article identified 10 broad topics as important to the effective teaching of qualitative research. A variety of curriculum structures and course formats currently used in social work education are examined. Approaches to teaching design and theory, and more project-based approaches to active leading are distinguished. Recommendations for expanding and enhancing the teaching of qualitative research conclude the article.
Novel synthesis of nanoparticles-based back coating flame-retardant materials for historic textile fabrics conservation
Authors: Attia Nour , Ahmed Harby , Yehia Dina , Hassan Mohamed , Zaddin Yassin
Published: December 2015

Novel flame-retardant back coating layer for historic textile fabrics was developed. Silica nanoparticles originated from agriculture waste rice husk were prepared through one pot thermal method. The morphological and structure properties of nanoparticles were studied. The silica nanoparticles were further impregnated with organic borate producing flame-retardant composite. The obtained composite incorporated with the binder by mechanical mixing providing flame-retardant coating paste. The coating paste spread on the back surface of textile fabrics. Varied compositions of nanoparticles, binder and organic borate were studied in the back coating layer. The flammability, thermal stability and mechanical properties of the blank and treated samples of linen fabrics as an inner support to the historical textiles were investigated. Flame retardancy of the back-coated linen samples has improved achieved high class of flame-retardant textile fabrics of zero rate of burning compared to 80.3 mm/min for blank. The synergistic effect of flame retardancy between nanoparticles and organic borate was investigated. The tensile strength of the flame retardant fabrics was enhanced by 27% and elongation was improved. The effect of industrial aging on the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of flame-retardant back coating textiles was studied.
The increasingly complex regulation of adipocyte differentiation
Authors: Poulos Sylvia P , Dodson Michael V , Culver Melinda F , Hausman Gary J
Published: December 2015

Adipose (AD) tissue development and function relies on the ability of adipocytes to proliferate and differentiate into lipid-containing cells that also have endocrine function. Research suggests that certain conditions can induce AD tissue stem cells to differentiate into various cell types and that the microenvironment of the cell, including the extracellular matrix (ECM), is essential in maintaining cell and tissue function. This review provides an overview of factors involved in the proliferation and differentiation of adipocytes. A brief review of the numerous factors that influence PPARγ, the transcription factor thought to be the master regulator of adipocyte differentiation, provides context of established pathways that regulate adipogenesis. Thought provoking findings from research with hypoxia that is supported by earlier research that vascular development is related to adipogenesis are reviewed. Finally, our understanding of the critical role of the ECM and environment in adipogenesis is discussed and compared with studies that suggest that adipocytes may dedifferentiate and can convert into other cell types.
Possible involvement of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in N-acetylcysteine-mediated antidepressant-like effects
Authors: Al-Samhari Marwa M , Al-Rasheed Nouf M , Al-Rejaie Salim , Al-Rasheed Nawal M , Hasan Iman H , Mahmoud Ayman M , Dzimiri Nduna
Published: December 2015

Advances in depression research have targeted inflammation and oxidative stress to develop novel types of treatment. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway plays pivotal roles in immune and inflammatory responses. The present study was designed to investigate the effects of N-acetylcysteine, a putative precursor of the antioxidant glutathione, in an animal model of depression, with an emphasis on the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Fluoxetine, a classical antidepressant drug was also under investigation. Male Wistar rats were subjected to forced swimming test and given N-acetylcysteine and fluoxetine immediately after the pre-test session, 5 h later and 1 h before the test session of the forced swimming test. N-acetylcysteine decreased immobility time ( P < 0.05), serum corticosterone ( P < 0.001), and hydrogen peroxide ( P < 0.001), while restored glutathione concentration. Treatment of the rats with N-acetylcysteine produced significant ( P < 0.001) down-regulation of STAT3 mRNA expression and protein phosphorylation. On the other hand, N-acetylcysteine significantly ( P < 0.001) increased SOCS3 gene expression; however, SOCS3 protein was not changed. In conclusion, our study suggests that modulation of the JAK/STAT pathway might mediate the antidepressant-like effects of N-acetylcysteine. Therefore, depression research may target the JAK/STAT signaling pathway to provide a novel effective therapy.
Giant Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Ullery Brant W. , Itoga Nathan K. , Lee Jason T.
Published: December 2015

Introduction:

Giant abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), defined as those measuring greater than 13.0 cm in transverse diameter, represent a rare clinical entity and present unique anatomic challenges.

Methods:

A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained aneurysm database from 2000 to 2013 was performed at a single academic referral center. Preoperative comorbid status, aneurysm characteristics, procedural details, and perioperative course were recorded for all patients.

Results:

Four patients (male, n = 3) with a mean age of 75.2 years (range, 71-80 years) underwent open repair of giant AAAs. The mean AAA size was 14.4 cm (range, 13.2-15.5 cm). All giant AAAs were associated with neck length <10 mm and/or severe neck angulation. At a mean follow-up of 22 months, there has been 1 late death due to nonaneurysm-related causes.

Conclusion:

Due to anatomic limitation with currently available aortic endografts, giant AAAs have been traditionally repaired using a standard open surgical approach. The feasibility of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) with or without the use of adjunct techniques, including snorkel/chimney or fenestrated EVAR, has yet to be elucidated.
Endovascular revascularization of symptomatic chronic middle cerebral artery occlusions: Two case reports
Authors: Wan Yue , Lo Wai-Ting , Liu Yang-Xia , Peng Xiao-Xiang
Published: December 2015

For patients with chronic middle cerebral artery occlusions who have recurrent ischemic symptoms despite antiplatelet therapy and vascular risk factor control, treatment options are limited. Because of concerns about the safety of endovascular revascularization of these occlusions and the technical skills required, these procedures have not been widely performed. We report on two patients with successful endovascular revascularization of the chronic middle cerebral artery occlusion with impaired cerebral hemodynamics, with vessel patency maintained on follow-up imaging and no recurrence of stroke. A literature review of treatment options for such patients was performed. Revascularization is technically feasible and can be considered an option for carefully selected chronic middle cerebral artery occlusion patients with recurrent ischemic symptoms despite medical therapy.
A case of two pial arteriovenous fistulas with giant venous pouches treated by endovascular coil embolization: Therapy with and without anticoagulation
Authors: Ji Wenjun , Liu Aihua , Lv Xianli , Li Youxiang , Yang Xinjian , Jiang Chuhan , Wu Zhongxue
Published: December 2015

Background

Endovascular coil embolization of pial arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) has been reported as an effective treatment. However, venous thrombosis and intracranial hemorrhage developing after endovascular occlusion of a pial AVF have not been adequately reported.

Case description

A 37-year-old man presented with left middle cerebral artery (MCA) AVF and right posterior cerebral artery (PCA) AVF with giant venous pouches. Staged endovascular coil embolization was performed. The MCA AVF was completely occluded by coils at the first stage. Intravenous heparin (3000 IU) was administered during the procedure, and then low molecular weight heparin (subcutaneous injection, 0.4 mL/12 hours) was administered for two days. The PCA AVF was near completely occluded by coils without anticoagulation therapy at the second stage. Rapid progressive venous thrombosis and intracranial hemorrhage were confirmed by computerized tomography brain scan postoperatively, and the patient was then transferred to the neurological intensive care unit for further treatment. Finally, the patient recovered well at the five-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Endovascular occlusion of a high-flow pial AVF with a giant venous pouch resulting in significant blood stasis could precipitate thrombosis in the venous system. Further studies are required to establish whether anticoagulation therapy is necessary.
From Brussels to Belgrade
Authors: Radeljić Branislav
Published: December 2015

While acknowledging that it is important to examine events within their appropriate context, this article is interested in the capacity of qualitative research methods to assist us so that we can get a more accurate picture of European Community involvement in the Yugoslav federation and the decisions that terminated its existence. More precisely, the article is concerned with the extent to which archival collections and interviews with state as well as nonstate actors can shape our ideas and consequent explanations of the Yugoslav state crisis. In addition, the last section elaborates on a number of challenges one may encounter while being on such a demanding research journey. As suggested by the concluding remarks, new interpretations, apart from managing to satisfy the researcher’s own ambition to complement the existing scholarship, should also serve to encourage fresh questions and answers.
Pseudo-characteristic upwind scheme for incompressible flows
Authors: Barar Farzad , Razavi Seyed Esmail
Published: December 2015

For enhancing the performance of the characteristic-based method, the multidimensional characteristics of incompressible flows are applied for developing a novel efficient bicharacteristic-based method. The multidimensionality of information propagation is embedded in the convective flux computation by the directional derivatives along the bicharacteristics in conjunction with the cross derivative. The well-known benchmark problems (i.e. the cross flow around a circular cylinder, the lid-driven cavity flow, and the flow around a sphere) are solved to validate the proposed scheme in the presence of strong multidimensional interaction of separated vortical flow. The results represent significant consensus with the benchmark solutions. Furthermore, the proposed scheme results in significantly faster convergence and higher resolution in comparison with the characteristic-based method.
Planetary gearbox fault feature enhancement based on combined adaptive filter method
Authors: Tian Shuangshu , Qian Zheng
Published: December 2015

The reliability of vibration signals acquired from a planetary gear system (the indispensable part of wind turbine gearbox) is directly related to the accuracy of fault diagnosis. The complex operation environment leads to lots of interference signals which are included in the vibration signals. Furthermore, both multiple gears meshing with each other and the differences in transmission rout produce strong nonlinearity in the vibration signals, which makes it difficult to eliminate the noise. This article presents a combined adaptive filter method by taking a delayed signal as reference signal, the Self-Adaptive Noise Cancellation method is adopted to eliminate the white noise. In the meanwhile, by applying Gaussian function to transform the input signal into high-dimension feature-space signal, the kernel least mean square algorithm is used to cancel the nonlinear interference. Effectiveness of the method has been verified by simulation signals and test rig signals. By dealing with simulation signal, the signal-to-noise ratio can be improved around 30 dB (white noise) and the amplitude of nonlinear interference signal can be depressed up to 50%. Experimental results show remarkable improvements and enhance gear fault features.
Coverage of Mexico in United States media: Phases of academic scholarship
Authors: Rendon Hector , Johnson Melissa A
Published: December 2015

This study summarizes the research produced from 1984 to 2014 about coverage of Mexico in the United States media. The most important findings are: in the last three decades there has been an exponential growth in academic production related to this topic; researchers working for public universities in border states (geographic proximity) or with high rates of Hispanics in the population (cultural proximity) are producing most of these studies; and there is a lack of studies related to the coverage of Mexico in United States digital media. Topics of academic interest clustered in four phases: Cultural Understanding Phase (1984–1993), NAFTA Phase (1995–1996), International and Cultural Integration Phase (1997–2010), and Threat Phase (2010–2014). The goal of the analysis was to discern trends, demonstrate research gaps, and facilitate academic collaboration. The article also notes the parallel between trends in academic work and patterns in journalism.
Motorcyclist’s thumb: carpometacarpal injuries of the thumb sustained in motorcycle crashes
Authors: Alexander C. , Abzug J. M. , Johnson A. J. , Pensy R. A. , Eglseder W. A. , Paryavi E.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate motorcycle crash thumb injury patterns. We hypothesized that ulnar collateral ligament injuries at the thumb metacarpophalangeal joint would be most common and there would be a side predilection due to the clutch and brake positions. Motorcyclist admissions following injury between 2002 and 2013 were reviewed, and phalangeal and metacarpal injuries treated acutely identified. Demographics, injury, and treatment characteristics were recorded. Association between laterality and injury type was assessed. Of 128 patients, 59 underwent acute treatment for thumb injuries. Eleven patients sustained thumb ulnar collateral ligament injuries; 27 sustained thumb carpometacarpal injuries. Most carpometacarpal injuries were fracture-dislocations (19/27). Thumb carpometacarpal injuries had no overall side predilection; ulnar collateral ligament injuries occurred more on the right. Carpometacarpal fractures and dislocations are the most frequent motorcycle crash thumb injury, probably due to the mechanics of gripping handlebars and the high-energy force directed into the palm and against the metacarpal base.

Level of evidence: Level IV
Clinical experience with repository corticotropin injection in patients with multiple sclerosis experiencing mood changes with intravenous methylprednisolone: a case series
Authors: Murray Stacey , Woo Andrew
Published: December 2015

The elevated prevalence of neuropsychiatric symptoms and disorders among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is well recognized, as are potential neuropsychiatric side effects of treatment with corticosteroids. Both methylprednisolone (MP) and repository corticotropin injection (HP Acthar® gel) have demonstrated efficacy in reducing short-term disability after exacerbations of MS. Although historical data are limited, repository corticotropin injection has not generally been associated with detrimental neuropsychiatric effects. We describe six cases of patients with relapsing-remitting MS who had previously experienced detrimental mood changes with MP treatment. Some of these patients had previous histories of mood disorders or other neuropsychiatric symptoms prior to MS diagnosis. All six patients were subsequently treated with repository corticotropin injection for MS exacerbations and each demonstrated improvements in MS symptoms. This clinical experience suggests that repository corticotropin injection should be considered as an alternative for patients who do not tolerate corticosteroids or have difficulties associated with intravenous medication. Furthermore, the rate of neuropsychiatric side effects observed in these patients was low. These observations support repository corticotropin injection as a viable alternative for the treatment of acute exacerbations of MS, particularly in patients who have a history of neuropsychiatric disorders or symptoms either independently or in response to MP treatment. In reviewing both the published data and our own clinical experience regarding potential neuropsychiatric adverse events with treatment for MS exacerbations, we hope to stimulate further research into the potential efficacy and safety of repository corticotropin injection among patients with some form of neuropsychiatric complications that must be considered when establishing a treatment plan for MS.
Integrated Personalized Diabetes Management (PDM)
Authors: Kulzer Bernhard , Daenschel Wilfried , Daenschel Ingrid , Siegel Erhard G. , Schramm Wendelin , Parkin Christopher G. , Messinger Diethelm , Weissmann Joerg , Djuric Zdenka , Mueller Angelika , Vesper Iris , Heinemann Lutz
Published: December 2015

Background:

Collaborative use of structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) data and data management software, utilized within a 6-step cycle enables integrated Personalized Diabetes Management (PDM). The 2 PDM-ProValue studies shall assess the effectiveness of this approach in improving patient outcomes and practice efficiencies in outpatient settings.

Methods:

The PDM-ProValue studies are 12-month, prospective, cluster-randomized, multicenter, trials to determine if use of integrated PDM in daily life improves glycemic control in insulin-treated type 2 diabetes patients. Fifty-four general medical practices (GPs) and 36 diabetes-specialized practices (DSPs) across Germany will be recruited. The practices will be randomly assigned to the control groups (CNL) or the intervention groups (INT) via cluster-randomization. CNL practices will continue with their usual care; INT practices will utilize integrated PDM. The sample size is 1,014 patients (n = 540 DSP patients, n = 474 GP patients). Each study is designed to detect a between-group difference in HbA1c change of at least 0.4% at 12 months with a power of 90% and 2-sided significance level of .05. Differences in timing and degree of treatment adaptions, treatment decisions, blood glucose target ranges, hypoglycemia, self-management behaviors, quality of life, patients attitudes, clinician satisfaction, practice processes, and resource consumption will be assessed. Study endpoints will be analyzed for the modified intent-to-treat and per protocol populations. Trial results are expected to be available in late 2016.

Discussion:

Effective and efficient strategies to optimize diabetes management are needed. These randomized studies will help determine if PDM is beneficial.
Primary Tumors of the Foot and Ankle
Authors: Kennedy John G. , Ross Keir A. , Smyth Niall A. , Hogan MaCalus V. , Murawski Christopher D.
Published: December 2015

Tumors of the foot and ankle are rarely encountered in the general patient population. Even among studies of tumor patients, foot and ankle neoplasms are uncommon. Given the weight-bearing demands of the foot and its relatively small area, even small masses are likely to be symptomatic and/or palpable to both patient and physician. Only 3% of osseous neoplasms are found in this region, while 8% of benign soft tissue tumors and 5% of malignant soft tissue tumors are localized to the foot and ankle. Despite the rarity of presentation, it is important for orthopaedic surgeons to be familiar with the diagnostic criteria and therapeutic options for these patients, as each tumor varies in its presentation, level of aggressiveness, and natural history of the disease. With appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment, patients can anticipate a reasonable chance of survival and preservation of function. In this review article, the authors survey the current literature regarding the presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment for the most common benign and malignant tumors of the foot and ankle.

Levels of Evidence: Level IV: Literature Review
Varus Deformity of the Distal Tibia From Physeal Growth Arrest Treated Using a Titanium Metal Porous Wedge
Authors: Bridgforth Andrew B. , Burrus M. Tyrrell , Park Joseph S.
Published: December 2015

During a cheerleading event, a 14-year-old female sustained a right ankle physeal fracture that was treated nonoperatively with casting. She developed a distal medial tibial physeal arrest, and as the onset of menses was at age 16, she subsequently developed a varus distal tibial deformity. At the age of 19, she was no longer able to participate in collegiate cheerleading due to lateral ankle pain, ankle instability, and peroneal subluxation. After failing conservative treatment, she underwent an ankle arthroscopy, Broström-Gould procedure, peroneal retinacular repair with peroneal tenolysis, and a distal tibial medial opening wedge osteotomy using a porous titanium metal wedge and a one-third tubular plate. At 6-month follow-up, her osteotomy site showed abundant callus formation, and her lateral ankle pain had almost completely resolved. At 22-month follow-up, there were no residual ankle instability or pain complaints, and she had returned to collegiate cheerleading. This case report highlights a very useful, previously not described, application of porous titanium metal wedges for medial supramalleolar opening wedge osteotomies of the tibia. Such wedges are familiar to many foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons and continue to have expanding indications.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case report
Lifting the veil on the PRP–client relationship
Authors: Sissons Helen
Published: December 2015

The research used videotaped ethnographic observation and analysis of verbal and non-verbal actions to examine how a public relations practitioner (PRP) handled a client during a time of financial crisis in the client’s organization. Three interactions in which the PRP discussed media messaging with his client were analysed to discover what techniques the PRP employed and how much influence he had in constructing and disseminating the organization’s media strategy. The research provides rare empirical evidence of the day-to-day practices of PRPs in consultancy–client relationships, which is an area under-examined by researchers. The analysis found the relationship was characterized by competing interests and information asymmetry, which often hampered collaboration and reduced PRP influence.
Internet-Based Information on Long-Acting Reversible Contraception for Adolescents
Authors: Harris Kari , Byrd Kelly , Engel Matt , Weeks Kerri , Ahlers-Schmidt Carolyn R.
Published: December 2015

Background:Long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) is safe, effective, and recommended as first-line contraception for adolescents. Despite clear medical recommendations, the type and quality of Internet information regarding LARC for teenagers is unknown. Methods: Data were collected through web queries. Resulting websites were assessed for quality criteria and a priori content themes based on the leading medical societies’ recommendations for adolescent LARC. Results: Of the 238 websites evaluated, 77% made no recommendation of LARC for adolescent females. Of the 55 websites that did recommend LARC, only 40% specifically discussed its use in the adolescent population. Of note, 16% of websites recommending LARC discouraged their use in adolescents. Quality varied among LARC-discussing websites, ranging from 3 to 13 of the 15 criteria assessed. Discussion: Few websites offer up-to-date information regarding the use of LARC, and most fail to discuss LARC use at all. As LARC is highly effective in preventing unplanned pregnancies in adolescents, incomplete or inaccurate information on the Internet present a barrier to promoting its utilization in this at-risk population.
Living in the Present
Authors: Barns Angela , Svanholm Frida , Kjellberg Anette , Thyberg Ingrid , Falkmer Torbjorn
Published: December 2015

This article presents the findings from a qualitative research project exploring eight women’s experiences of living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Through semistructured interviews, the women provided insights into the physical, emotional, and social impacts of RA and the “work” involved in negotiating its influence in the everyday life. In narrating their experiences of adapting to RA, the women express a common desire for “normalcy,” to return to a time and space before the disruption of RA. The women’s accounts also emphasized the interrelatedness between bodily experience and constructions of self, highlighting the corporeal nature of RA and the constant shaping and reshaping of personal meanings and values.
“On the Way to Freedom”
Authors: Spiteri Damian
Published: December 2015

The arrival of migrants from various parts of Africa in relatively large numbers to the central Mediterranean island of Malta was an unprecedented experience for the locals prior to the early 2000s. This article focuses on exploring the processes that unaccompanied minors go through to become asylum-seekers in Europe and to move on from there to further evolve their life projects. It also explores the role that ethnographers play in retelling their stories, so as to show how these transitions can be better understood. This is particularly because, in most cases, Malta serves as a transit country which they will eventually leave to settle elsewhere. The article shows how the active participation of ethnographers does not simply serve as an “add on” to the data acquired but rather contributes to a co-construction of meanings in an inter-cooperative way.
Analysis of Japanese Municipalities With Geopark, MAB, and GIAHS Certification
Authors: Kohsaka Ryo , Matsuoka Hikaru
Published: December 2015

We analyzed the discussions of Japanese municipalities in their process for obtaining certifications for the Geoparks by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) by the UNESCO, and the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage systems (GIAHS) by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The official records at the municipality diet were analyzed in a quantitative manner from 2011 to 2013. As the first step, we analyzed the eight municipalities of Noto and Sado for the GIAHS, the cities Itoigawa and Hakusan for the Geopark, and Katsuyama Yamanouchi village from Nagano for the MAB. As individual examples, we analyzed City of Suzu with GIAHS, Itoigawa (Geopark), and Yamanouchi town (MAB) with the text-mining approach. For the GIAHS, it was clear that the larger municipalities with city status tended to discuss certification issues more frequently than the smaller towns and villages. Terms such as conservation and certification tended to be used with GIAHS at the Suzu City. The term brand was used with GIAHS and MAB but not for the Geopark. The findings using quantitative methods are at initial stage for analysis of municipality strategies and require further future research.
College Choice Behaviors of International Students
Authors: Tan Anil
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this article was to explore the main reasons influencing international students to study abroad. Main study abroad destinations are the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, and Canada. China is the leading sending country with 14% of the total market. This study explored the factors influencing international students to study abroad at particular higher education institutions in the United States. Data were collected through surveys in two higher education institutions in South Texas. Sequential explanatory mixed method design was used to collect and analyze the data. Their main motivation in selecting their current institution was mostly because of family and friend recommendations.