bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The perception of vibration in buildings: A historical literature review and some current progress
Authors: Schiavi Alessandro , Rossi Laura , Ruatta Anna
Published: March 2016

The article provides a literature overview regarding the perception of vibrations, with a particular attention to the issues of comfort in buildings. Nowadays, an increasing number of mechanical sources generate vibrations in building structures, causing discomfort to the inhabitants. However, what does “comfort” or “discomfort” really mean? From a purely metrological point of view, it is not possible to define accurately the boundary of “comfort” without performing subjective evaluations. Nevertheless, a promising attempt can be found in perspectives and methods of the recent Soft-Metrology. In this context, theoretical and empirical models and measurement procedures are devoted to define and quantify objective and subjective responses to external stimuli on human, on the basis of several aspects (e.g. annoyance, physiological and psychological effects, behavioral effects).
Trade agreements and labour standards clauses: Explaining labour standards developments through a qualitative comparative analysis of US free trade agreements
Authors: Giumelli Francesco , van Roozendaal Gerda
Published: March 2016

Whereas a number of studies have been conducted to investigate causal relations between individual conditions (e.g. trade relations and labour standards), there is a lack of consensus among practitioners and scholars about the conditions that favour or cause labour standards improvements and, specifically, it is still unclear whether the increasing pervasiveness of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) is conducive to enhancing labour conditions. The aim of this study is to shed light on whether labour clauses in FTAs are conducive to better labour standard practices, whether the content of a clause makes a difference, and whether changes have anything to do with other (external) pressures that play a role in changing labour standards. The main argument of the article is that FTAs do not play a determinant role in improving labour standards in signatory states. The analysis is done by looking at 13 FTAs signed by the United States with 19 countries. The United States is chosen because of its relatively extensive collection of FTAs including different conditions on labour standards. The empirical dataset is analysed with Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method, which permits to trace the combined effect of independent variables rather than to focus on the direct and individual causality with each of them.
An experimental study into the chemical effects of direct gasoline injection into retained residuals in a homogeneous charge compression ignition engine
Authors: Hunicz Jacek
Published: March 2016

Fuel injection into retained residuals and the resulting exhaust-fuel reactions appear to be an effective method for enhancing mixture reactivity in residual effected homogeneous charge compression ignition engines. Varying the extent of reactions preceding the main combustion event enables the control of auto-ignition timing and heat release. Although fuel injection during the negative valve overlap period is widely utilised, there is still insufficient amount of data on its chemical effects. This study experimentally explores the species formation as a result of negative valve overlap exhaust-fuel reactions. To collect experimental data, a single-cylinder engine with negative valve overlap and direct gasoline injection was utilised. Valving strategy of the engine was strategically set to achieve a high rate of backflows at the end of the intake process. Negative valve overlap gas, diluted by intake air, was sampled from the intake runner and passed to a Fourier transform infrared analytical system. A dedicated procedure was applied to compute degrees of fuel conversion into species from the diluted samples. The experiments were designed to acquire comprehensive data on the effects of different fuel injection timings on species formation during negative valve overlap. The results showed that exhaust-fuel reactions could produce high quantities of methane and light unsaturated hydrocarbons. At early negative valve overlap fuel injection, up to 25% of fuel was converted into species, whereas chemical changes were negligible for late fuel injection. Additionally, the effects of excess air and amounts of fuel injected during negative valve overlap were investigated.
Household formation behavior: An analysis of relative education and exogamy for descendants of immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Çelikaksoy Aycan
Published: March 2016

The positive relationship between education and exogamy has been well established in the literature; however, we know less regarding the mechanisms behind this relationship as well as the heterogeneity of this relationship across groups and household types.1 Thus, this paper analyzes different forms of household types for descendants focusing on the relationship between education and exogamy.1 Focusing on the role of education both at the individual and at the group level contributes to our understanding of current and future trends regarding social and family structures in destination countries. High quality data at the individual level, from Statistics Sweden, for the whole population of interest are utilized. The overall results confirm the positive relationship between education and exogamy. However, not only education at the individual level but also at the group level is important. Furthermore, this relationship varies across the educational distribution, gender, as well as household type.
Evaluation of the (1–24) adrenocorticotropin stimulation test for the diagnosis of primary aldosteronism
Authors: Terui Ken , Kageyama Kazunori , Nigawara Takeshi , Moriyama Takako , Sakihara Satoru , Takayasu Shinobu , Tsushima Yuko , Watanki Yutaka , Yamagata Satoshi , Sugiyama Aya , Murasawa Shingo , Nakada Yuki , Suda Toshihiro , Daimon Makoto
Published: March 2016

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate the diagnostic power of the adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) stimulation test in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) and those with aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA).

Design:

This study was based on a retrospective database analysis.

Subjects and methods:

We assessed 158 hypertensive patients with a high plasma aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR) including 97 with at least one positive confirmatory test result who did not undergo surgery and comprised a “possible PA” group, 19 with negative results in all tests who were the “non-PA” group, and 41 diagnosed with APA following surgery who were the APA group. The “confirmed PA group” included APA patients and patients from the possible PA group showing both high ARR and hypokalemia. One case was diagnosed as a metastasis.

Results:

Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that the diagnostic accuracy of ACTH test was not very effective in differentiating between APA patients and possible PA and non-PA patients. The optimal cut-off value of maximal plasma aldosterone concentration for differentiating between patient in the confirmed PA group and other patients showed moderate accuracy.

Conclusions:

The ACTH test may not be useful as a screening or confirmatory test, but the test may be useful for differentiating between patients with confirmed PA and the rest of the cohort. The positive finding of the ACTH test may at least support a higher likelihood of lateralizing on adrenal venous sampling.
Association of aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) -344 T/C polymorphism with diabetic nephropathy: A meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Haiyan , Wang Xu , Liu Mingming , Shao Xin , He Xueyuan
Published: March 2016

Introduction:

Studies on the relation between aldosterone synthase -344 T/C polymorphism and diabetic nephropathy showed controversial conclusions. This meta-analysis aimed to systematically summarize the association between aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) gene polymorphism and diabetic nephropathy risk.

Methods:

Embase, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Wanfang Data, VIP Database, China Knowledge Resource Integrated Database and SinoMed have been searched. A total of five studies including 825 cases and 910 controls were included.

Results:

In overall analysis, significant increased risk was found in recessive comparison (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 1.05–1.55), homozygote comparison (OR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.04–1.88) and allele comparison (OR = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.05–1.39). No significant association was detected in dominant comparison (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 0.97–1.66) and heterozygote comparison (OR = 1.17, 95% CI 0.88–1.56). In subgroup analysis, significant increased risk existed in Asian population in allele comparison (OR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.17–1.79), dominant comparison (OR = 1.78, 95% CI 1.11–2.87), homozygote comparison (OR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.29–3.47), recessive comparison (OR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.17–2.03), except for heterozygote comparison (OR = 1.44, 95% CI 0.87–2.38).

Conclusions:

Our meta-analysis indicates that aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) gene polymorphism may contribute to diabetic nephropathy development, especially in Asian group, with the T allele acting as a risk factor.
The effect of low lobe count chevron nozzles on supersonic jet screech
Authors: Humphrey Nathan J , Edgington-Mitchell Daniel
Published: March 2016

An experimental study was conducted into the fluid and aeroacoustic properties of jets issuing from nozzles with two or four chevrons. Flow visualisation in the form of schlieren imaging was utilised to investigate the general change in jet structure. Schlieren imaging revealed a highly asymmetric flow field produced by the azimuthal asymmetry at the nozzle lip. The shock structures within the flow were significantly altered in both symmetry and spacing by the introduction of chevrons. A spatial two-point correlation was used to classify the dominant azimuthal instability mode produced by each of the respective nozzles. It was found that the two-lobe nozzle favoured a lateral flapping mode towards the chevron sides of the nozzle. The four-lobe nozzle, when coherent structures were visible, produced a mode somewhat more difficult to classify, being either a helical mode or a multi-axial flapping mode.

A complex relationship was observed between the range of pressure ratios over which strong screech tones are evident, and the number of lobes. The two-lobe nozzle provided screech suppression below a nozzle pressure ratio of 2.7, but directional screech amplification at higher pressures. The four-lobe nozzle provided less screech amelioration at low pressures, but eliminated the screech tone entirely for most other pressures studied. The flapping oscillation of the two-lobe nozzle produced a highly asymmetric acoustic field. The four-lobe nozzle produced a relatively symmetric acoustic field.
Monitoring fatigue-induced transverse matrix cracks in laminated composites using built-in acousto-ultrasonic techniques
Authors: Wilson Cecilia Larrosa , Chang Fu Kuo
Published: March 2016

This work investigated the use of ultrasonic wave propagation in a composite laminate to monitor transverse matrix cracking. It was found that the change in the signal’s power spectral density correlates to crack density increase, and its sensitivity was dependent on the actuator to sensor orientation. This orientation dependence was found to be the same as that of the laminate’s stiffness degradation. A crack density damage index model was developed that relates signal changes to laminate stiffness degradation due to transverse matrix cracks. With this damage index model, a matrix cracking monitoring system was proposed, implemented, and validated. The developed system requires a calibration test for the composite layup of interest and a minimum of one actuator and two sensors at different angle orientations. The calibration test and general approach steps are described and validated. The system’s crack density estimates match experimentally measured crack density values within established error bounds.
Providers’ Views on a Community-Wide Patient Navigation Program
Authors: de la Riva Erika E. , Hajjar Nadia , Tom Laura S. , Phillips Sara , Dong XinQi , Simon Melissa A.
Published: March 2016

The DuPage Patient Navigation Collaborative (DPNC) adapted and scaled the Patient Navigation Research Program’s intervention model to navigate uninsured suburban DuPage County women with an abnormal breast or cervical cancer screening result. Recent findings reveal the effectiveness of the DPNC in addressing patient risk factors for delayed follow-up, but gaps remain as patient measures may not adequately capture navigator impact. Using semistructured interviews with 19 DPNC providers (representing the county health department, clinics, advocacy organizations, and academic partners), this study explores the critical roles of the DPNC in strengthening community partnerships and enhancing clinical services. Findings from these provider interviews revealed that a wide range of resources existed within DuPage but were often underused. Providers indicated that the DPNC was instrumental in fostering community partnerships and that navigators enhanced the referral processes, communications, and service delivery among clinical teams. Providers also recommended expanding navigation to mental health, women’s health, and for a variety of chronic conditions. Considering that many in the United States have recently gained access to the health care system, clinical teams might benefit by incorporating navigators who serve a dual working purpose embedded in the community and clinics to enhance the service delivery for vulnerable populations.
Comparison of a Sheathless Transradial Access With Looping Technique and Transbrachial Access for Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: Lee Wei-Chieh , Fang Hsiu-Yu , Chen Huang-Chung , Hsueh Shu-Kai , Fang Chih-Yuan , Chen Chien-Jen , Yip Hon-Kan , Wu Chiung-Jen
Published: March 2016

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of sheathless transradial access (TRA) with the looping technique for carotid artery stenting (CAS) compared with the transbrachial approach (TBA). Methods: Among 99 symptomatic patients with a history of transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke, 38 patients (mean age 69±10 years; 28 men) with documented internal carotid artery stenosis were selected for CAS via a sheathless TRA and compared with 61 patients who received CAS via the brachial artery. Routine assessments of radial artery patency using duplex ultrasound and clinical follow-up were performed at 1, 6, and 12 months. Results: The sheathless TRA technique offered 100% procedure success; only 1 patient in the sheathless TRA group and 2 patients in the TBA group experienced TIAs during the procedure. There were no major complications (major stroke or 30 day in-hospital death) in either group or radial access site complications. The incidence of radial artery occlusion in the sheathless TRA CAS group was 9% (3/33) at 1 year (5 patients died unrelated to the procedure). Conclusion: The sheathless TRA with looping technique may be an alternative to transbrachial access for CAS in patients who have small radial arteries and are unsuitable for the transfemoral approach.
Candy-Plug Technique Using an Excluder Aortic Extender for Distal Occlusion of a Large False Lumen Aneurysm in Chronic Aortic Dissection
Authors: Ogawa Yukihisa , Nishimaki Hiroshi , Chiba Kiyoshi , Murakami Kenji , Sakurai Yuka , Fujiwara Keishi , Miyairi Takeshi , Nakajima Yasuo
Published: March 2016

Purpose: To describe the candy-plug technique using an Excluder aortic extender for distal occlusion of a large false lumen aneurysm in chronic aortic dissection. Technique: A 60-year-old female patient with a history of chronic type B aortic dissection and high-dose steroid use for Churg-Strauss syndrome developed a large 6.2 cm maximum diameter false lumen aneurysm. She underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair from the left common carotid artery to the descending aorta to cover the proximal entry at the level of distal arch, with coil embolization of the left subclavian artery. To occlude the large false lumen from the reentry just below the level of the left renal artery ostium, a modified 32×45-mm Excluder aortic extender was deployed in the false lumen through the reentry, and a 16-mm Amplatzer Vascular Plug I was deployed in the waist of the modified Excluder aortic extender for complete occlusion. No obvious technical complication was seen. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography at 1 and 14 months revealed no endoleaks and showed complete false lumen thrombosis. Conclusion: The candy-plug technique using the Excluder aortic extender is feasible for occlusion of a large false lumen aneurysm in chronic aortic dissection.
Stroke onset time estimation from multispectral quantitative magnetic resonance imaging in a rat model of focal permanent cerebral ischemia
Authors: McGarry Bryony L , Rogers Harriet J , Knight Michael J , Jokivarsi Kimmo T , Sierra Alejandra , Gröhn Olli HJ , Kauppinen Risto A
Published: March 2016

Background

Quantitative T2 relaxation magnetic resonance imaging allows estimation of stroke onset time.

Aims

We aimed to examine the accuracy of quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 relaxation times alone and in combination to provide estimates of stroke onset time in a rat model of permanent focal cerebral ischemia and map the spatial distribution of elevated quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 to assess tissue status.

Methods

Permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion was induced in Wistar rats. Animals were scanned at 9.4T for quantitative T1, quantitative T2, and Trace of Diffusion Tensor (Dav) up to 4 h post-middle cerebral artery occlusion. Time courses of differentials of quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 in ischemic and non-ischemic contralateral brain tissue (ΔT1, ΔT2) and volumes of tissue with elevated T1 and T2 relaxation times ( f1, f2) were determined. TTC staining was used to highlight permanent ischemic damage.

Results

ΔT1, ΔT2, f1, f2, and the volume of tissue with both elevated quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 (VOverlap) increased with time post-middle cerebral artery occlusion allowing stroke onset time to be estimated. VOverlap provided the most accurate estimate with an uncertainty of ±25 min. At all times-points regions with elevated relaxation times were smaller than areas with Dav defined ischemia.

Conclusions

Stroke onset time can be determined by quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 relaxation times and tissue volumes. Combining quantitative T1 and quantitative T2 provides the most accurate estimate and potentially identifies irreversibly damaged brain tissue.
Influence of different small-sided games on physical and physiological demands in rugby union players
Authors: Vaz Luís Miguel Teixeira , Gonçalves Bruno Sérgio Varanda , Figueira Bruno Emanuel Nogueira , Garcia Gastón César
Published: March 2016

This study aimed to describe the influence of four different small-sided games with 15-min duration on physical and physiological demands in rugby union players. Fourteen rugby union players (22.4 ± 3.2 years) participated in the study that was conducted during the competitive period of final-four first Division of 2012–2013 qualifying competition. Time-motion and body impact data were collected using global positional systems technology with heart rate monitored continuously across training sessions. The present study found that interaction between speed zones, impacts zones and small-sided game formats was significant. No differences were found in the distance covered per minute or the interaction of heart rate values; however, players spent the majority of time above 90% of the HRmax. The SSG 1 presents significant lower values in body impacts per minute compared with the other small-sided games. The results of this study demonstrate that small-sided games with evasion skills showed different levels of physical performance, and skill qualities of rugby union players. Although HR responses were similar between all small-sided game formats, the high levels of individual variability may explain the obtained results. Future use of this technology may help practitioners in design and implementation of individual position-specific training programs with appropriate management of player exercise load.
Exploring coach behaviours, session contexts and key stakeholder perceptions of non-linear coaching approaches in youth sport
Authors: Vinson Don , Brady Abbe , Moreland Ben , Judge Niall
Published: March 2016

Gaining better understanding of coaching pedagogies remains a crucial aspect of developing practice. In particular, pedagogic strategies which do not follow transmission-based, technically focused, approaches have been under-investigated. Furthermore, most investigations into coaching processes have elicited an incomplete understanding of the respective pedagogies due to deficiencies in the methodology such as limited triangulation of methods. This study utilises two systematic observation instruments, field notes, individual coach interviews and parent group interviews in order to investigate non-linear coaching pedagogies in three youth sport environments. The systematic observation instruments revealed a lower rate of coach behaviour than has previously been reported alongside fewer technical interventions and more questioning. The qualitative data revealed three themes; creating an environment of participant centredness, holistic development and authentically situated learning. The methodology effectively elicited understanding of the coaches’ pedagogic strategies. Future research should utilise such methodologies to investigate other sporting environments such as in elite and disability sport, particularly studying those approaches which feature non-linear pedagogies.
Committed relationships and enhanced threat levels: Perceptions of coach behavior, the coach–athlete relationship, stress appraisals, and coping among athletes
Authors: Nicholls Adam R , Levy Andrew R , Jones Leigh , Meir Rudi , Radcliffe Jon N , Perry John L
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study was to assess an a priori model that included perceptions of coach behavior, coach–athlete relationship, stress appraisals, and coping. A total of 274 athletes from the United Kingdom, Austalia, and Hong Kong completed relevant measures that assessed each construct. Our results revealed that perceptions of coach behavior were associated with aspects of the coach–athlete relationship and stress appraisals. In particular, closeness was positively associated with challenge appraisals and negatively with threat appraisals. However, commitment was positively associated with threat, indicating that there might be some negative implications of having a highly committed coach–athlete relationship. Further, commitment was also positively associated with disengagement-oriented coping, which has previously been linked to poor performance and lower goal-attainment. Applied practitioners could monitor athlete’s perceptions of the coach–athlete relationship, particularly commitment levels, and provide training in appraising stress and coping to those who also score highly on threat and disengagement-oriented coping, but low on task-oriented coping.
Changes on the match profile of the South African Currie Cup tournament during 2007 and 2013
Authors: Vahed Yusuf , Kraak Wilbur , Venter Ranel
Published: March 2016

In rugby union, several law changes were implemented between 2007 and 2013, yet the impact of these law changes on the profile of the game has not been assessed to date. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the law changes on the scoring, time interval, general skills and contact profiles of the South African Currie Cup during the 2007 ( n = 37) and 2013 ( n = 33) seasons. A total of 70 matches were analysed using video analysis software. The frequencies of 37 performance indicators were used to address the aim of the study. The scoring profile revealed that fewer tries were scored ( p = 0.07), while the number of penalty goals increased significantly ( p < 0.01). The time interval profile showed that stoppages decreased significantly ( p < 0.01). The skills profile revealed a significant increase in the number of passes ( p < 0.01) and a decrease in the number of handling errors, offloads and kicks ( p < 0.01). The contact profile revealed a significant increase in the number of rucks/mauls and tackles completed ( p < 0.01) and a decrease in scrums and line-outs ( p < 0.01). The study revealed that the South African game have move to a game that is more physical and continuous.
Project SCORE! Coaches’ perceptions of an online tool to promote positive youth development in sport
Authors: Strachan Leisha , MacDonald Dany J , Côté Jean
Published: March 2016

Research points to the potential of youth sport as an avenue to support the growth of particular assets and outcomes. A recurring theme in this line of research is the need to train coaches to deliberately deliver themes relating to positive youth development (PYD) consistently in youth sport programs. The purpose of the study was to design and deliver a technology-based PYD program. Project SCORE! ( www.projectscore.ca ) is a series of 10 lessons to help coaches integrate PYD into sport. Four youth sport coaches completed the program in this first phase of this research and were interviewed. The goal of this study was to gain some insights from coaches as they completed the program. Positive comments about the program (i.e. ease of use, success of particular lessons, coach’s personal growth) and challenges regarding teaching positive skills to youth are discussed. These results helped to shape the program and make necessary changes so that it may be used for a larger research study. Other implications and future research directions are discussed.
Common benign skin lesions
Authors: Gaskell Suzanne , Drinkwater Stephanie , Davies Alex
Published: March 2016

Every year, approximately one-in-four patient consultations with a GP are to seek advice about a skin-related problem. Many of these problems are benign and require no treatment. Ninety percent can be managed in the primary care setting. There is a wide range of benign skin conditions and GPs have a critical role in their diagnosis and treatment. If a GP is unable to identify benign lesions, an inappropriate priority may be given to referrals of benign lesions at the expense of more serious disorders. The aim of this article is to provide the reader with an overview of the benign skin lesions that are commonly seen in primary care, and how to recognise features that warrant referral for more specialist management. This article also provides an outline on how benign skin lesions can be treated in primary care.
Analysis of Total Ankle Arthroplasty Survival in the United States Using Multiple State Databases
Authors: LaMothe Jeremy , Seaworth Christine M. , Do Huong T. , Kunas Grace C. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate survivorship and risk factors for failure of total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) in the United States using large statewide, multipayer databases of inpatient discharges. TAA patients from 2005 to 2009 were identified from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project databases for 5 states (California, Florida, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Utah) and the New York Department of Health Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics were extracted, and a multivariable logistic regression model was developed to assess risk factors for 90-day all-cause readmission and failure. Failure was defined as revision, arthrodesis, amputation, or implant removal. During the period of interest, 1545 patients received 1593 TAA. The coded etiology of arthritis was primary osteoarthritis (n = 854, 55.2%), posttraumatic arthritis (n = 466, 30.2%), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 129, 8.4%), and other (n = 96, 6.2%). The 5-year survival rate was 90.1%. Patients with a coded diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04-4.01) or who were readmitted within 90 days of TAA (OR = 3.41; 95% CI = 1.67-6.97) had significantly increased risk of failure. Risk factors for readmission were Charlson-Deyo Score ≥2 (OR = 3.05; 95% CI = 1.51-6.15) and increased length of stay during the arthroplasty (OR = 1.30; 95% CI = 1.16-1.47).

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Observational study
Can a Naturally Occurring Pathogen Threat Change Social Attitudes? Evaluations of Gay Men and Lesbians During the 2014 Ebola Epidemic
Authors: Inbar Yoel , Westgate Erin C. , Pizarro David A. , Nosek Brian A.
Published: March 2016

Previous evidence linking disease threat and social attitudes suggests that a highly salient society-wide pathogen threat should lead to more negative attitudes toward gay men and lesbians. Using a sample of 248,922 Americans recruited via the Project Implicit website, we tested whether implicit attitudes toward gay men and lesbians shifted as a result of the 2014 Ebola virus outbreak. Regression discontinuity analyses, but not t-tests, showed evidence of a small shift in implicit (but not explicit) attitudes at the height of public concern over Ebola. These results could be interpreted as providing partial support for the effects of naturally occurring pathogen threats on social attitudes. Alternatively, given the large size of our sample, the mixed evidence and small effects may reflect a boundary condition for the operation of the behavioral immune system.
Sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma/acute B-cell leukaemia presenting with progressive proptosis and orbital mass in a child
Authors: Grasso Daniela , Borreggine Carmela , Ladogana Saverio , De Santis Raffaela , Delle Noci Nicola , Grilli Gianpaolo , Macarini Luca
Published: March 2016

Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is found predominantly in children, with the highest incidence occurring in Africa. The sporadic form occurs in non-endemic areas and typically involves the ileo-caecum and the bowel, whereas orbital and paranasal sinus involvement is rare. Here, we present an unusual case of sporadic BL in a Caucasian male child with rapidly progressive painful proptosis of the right eye. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an oval-shaped, extraconal mass in the supero-lateral part of the right orbit that deformed and dislocated the eyeball antero-inferiorly. The patient underwent anterior orbitotomy, and a biopsy of the excised tissue revealed a starry-sky appearance characteristic of BL. Postoperative aggressive chemotherapy was initiated with a good response after one week.
A Gaze-Driven Evolutionary Algorithm to Study Aesthetic Evaluation of Visual Symmetry
Authors: Makin Alexis D. J. , Bertamini Marco , Jones Andrew , Holmes Tim , Zanker Johannes M.
Published: March 2016

Empirical work has shown that people like visual symmetry. We used a gaze-driven evolutionary algorithm technique to answer three questions about symmetry preference. First, do people automatically evaluate symmetry without explicit instruction? Second, is perfect symmetry the best stimulus, or do people prefer a degree of imperfection? Third, does initial preference for symmetry diminish after familiarity sets in? Stimuli were generated as phenotypes from an algorithmic genotype, with genes for symmetry (coded as deviation from a symmetrical template, deviation–symmetry, DS gene) and orientation (0° to 90°, orientation, ORI gene). An eye tracker identified phenotypes that were good at attracting and retaining the gaze of the observer. Resulting fitness scores determined the genotypes that passed to the next generation. We recorded changes to the distribution of DS and ORI genes over 20 generations. When participants looked for symmetry, there was an increase in high-symmetry genes. When participants looked for the patterns they preferred, there was a smaller increase in symmetry, indicating that people tolerated some imperfection. Conversely, there was no increase in symmetry during free viewing, and no effect of familiarity or orientation. This work demonstrates the viability of the evolutionary algorithm approach as a quantitative measure of aesthetic preference.
A qualitative study exploring the effects of attending a community pain service choir on wellbeing in people who experience chronic pain
Authors: Hopper Mirella J , Curtis Suzi , Hodge Suzanne , Simm Rebecca
Published: March 2016

In line with growing evidence of the health benefits of singing, this study aimed to explore participants’ perceptions of the impact of a service-user-led community pain choir on their psychological wellbeing, self-efficacy and relationships with their chronic pain. The choir has links to a multidisciplinary pain management service, which is informed by the ethos of solution-focused (SF) principles, specifically in identifying and drawing upon patients’ resources. Seven choir members participated in semi-structured interviews, grounded in lines of enquiry commonly used in SF practice. Thematic analysis of the data uncovered seven themes: Physical Improvements, Emotional Impact, Personal Growth, Interpersonal Processes, Relationship with the ‘Self’, Living Well with Pain and Sharing the Music and Spreading the Word. Participants’ narratives provided support for participation in the choir in enhancing positive affect, self-worth, interpersonal relationships and overall wellbeing. The choir enabled continued progress towards accomplishing key pain management programme aims: self-management, coping and living well with pain. Findings expanded upon existing evidence relating to singing and wellbeing by highlighting the choir’s role in promoting resilience and acceptance of pain. Clinical implications are explored in relation to psychosocial dimensions of pain.
Implementing patient-centred care in the context of an integrated care program
Authors: Cooper Helen , McMurray Anne , Ward Lauren , Connor Martin
Published: March 2016

The patient-centred or ‘partnership’ approach to delivering care is widely acknowledged as a key feature of high-quality health care systems. The aims of patient-centred care are to encourage people to become active participants in health care decisions, and to act in partnership with them in a way that is respectful of and responsive to their needs, values and preferences. Integrated systems offer an ideal platform to optimise patient-centred care, given their focus on structures and processes that position patients at the centre, rather than the margins of health decision making. The Gold Coast Integrated Care program in Queensland, Australia, embodies the patient-centred approach in providing an alternative to hospital-centric services and better coordination of care for those with complex and chronic conditions. Multidisciplinary teams based in a Coordination Centre collaborate with the patient and primary care practitioner (General Practitioner) to undertake a holistic assessment of needs and risks that are managed and monitored through a shared health information system. This model is transformative for future services in enabling patient-centred, cost-effective, reliable and robust care for those with complex and/or chronic diseases.
Action Sports, Social Media, and New Technologies
Authors: Thorpe Holly
Published: March 2016

Action sport participants have always been actively involved in the consumption and production of niche cultural media. However, the proliferation of new media technologies is playing an evermore important role in the ongoing progression of skills among athletes and committed recreational participants, and building a sense of community among enthusiasts and audiences across local, national, and global contexts. More than repeating previous patterns, such media technologies are contributing to new relationships between corporations, action sporting bodies, and communities. This article sets out a research agenda for understanding new media developments in action sports. In the first part of this article, I detail how new digital media are being used by corporations, athletes, and everyday participants, and in so doing, are transforming the networks and connections within and across action sport communities. In the second, I describe how new media technologies such as GoPros™, camera drones, and GPS tracking devices are changing action sport experiences and the relationship between “human” and “nonhuman” sporting bodies. As well as revealing emerging issues, this article also poses a series of critical questions and challenges to researchers interested in contributing to new understandings of the latest media technologies in action sport cultures.
Corporate Governance and Firm Performance: An Exploratory Analysis of Indian Listed Companies
Authors: Roy Amitava
Published: March 2016

In this article we propose to study whether firm level good corporate governance (CG) leads to better firm performance, leading to higher value creation. Limited evidence exists concerning the impact of CG practices on firm level performance or valuations in the Indian context. This study attempts to fill this gap. Our motivation is to explore the linkage between good CG practices and firm performance in Indian listed companies. We use a panel of 58 top Indian listed companies in terms of market capitalisation (BSE 100 and NSE 100), over the five year period from 2007–08 to 2011–12 for our analysis. Our measurement analysis starts with a broad sample of 37 structural indicators of CG relating to directors, boards committees, audit considerations, ownership and capital structure characteristics and our defined set of control variables. We have used two measures of firm performance, Market to Book Value Ratio (MTBVR) and Return on Asset (RoA). We use principal component analysis to identify the underlying dimensions of CG and determine which indicators are associated with each factor. We conclude that firm performance, measured by RoA, results in R-square of 43.7 per cent, and is significantly influenced by the 7 factors. Firm performance, measured by MTBV Ratio, results in R-square of 34.5 per cent, and is significantly influenced by the 8 factors.
The Epidemiology of Injuries in Australian Professional Rugby Union 2014 Super Rugby Competition
Authors: Whitehouse Timothy , Orr Robin , Fitzgerald Edward , Harries Simon , McLellan Christopher P.
Published: March 2016

Background:

Rugby union is a collision-based ball sport played at the professional level internationally. Rugby union has one of the highest reported incidences of injury of all team sports.

Purpose:

To identify the characteristics, incidence, and severity of injuries occurring in Australian professional Super Rugby Union.

Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

The present study was a prospective epidemiology study on a cohort of 180 professional players from 5 Australian Super Rugby teams during the 2014 Super Rugby Union Tournament. Team medical staff collected and submitted daily training and match-play injury data through a secure, web-based electronic platform. The injury data included the main anatomic location of the injury, specific anatomic structure of the injury, injury diagnosis, training or match injury occurrence, main player position, mechanism of injury, and the severity of the injury quantified based on the number of days lost from training and/or competition due to injury.

Results:

The total combined incidence rate for injury during training and match-play across all Australian Super Rugby Union teams was 6.96 per 1000 hours, with a mean injury severity of 37.45 days lost from training and competition. The match-play injury incidence rate was 66.07 per 1000 hours, with a mean severity of 39.80 days lost from training and competition. No significant differences were observed between forward- and back-playing positions for match or training injury incidence rate or severity.

Conclusion:

The incidence of injury for the present study was lower during match-play than has previously been reported in professional rugby union; however, the overall time loss was higher compared with previous studies in professional rugby union. The high overall time loss was due fundamentally to a high incidence of injuries with greater than 28 days’ severity.
Some Provisional Techniques for Quantifying the Degree of Field Effect in Social Data
Authors: Martin John Levi , Slez Adam , Borkenhagen Chad
Published: March 2016

The authors present some relatively simple measures for the degree of organization of a social field, illustrating them with the intuitively accessible cases of fields that are organized by geographic space, and demonstrate that the measures are able to indicate when fields become more organized and that they can be applied to nongeographic data. Finally, the general approach highlights the danger of ignoring complexities of the functional form of spatial interdependence for social data.
How CEOs Can Become More Customeric
Authors: Mahajan Gautam
Published: March 2016

Far too often, academics, consultants and advisors complain that companies are not doing enough to become more Customer-centric, though it seems obvious that the Customer should be given more importance. This article examines why that is the case. It starts with the premise that the CEO is smart and perceives higher priorities or tasks than the Customer priority, which explains the lack of change in organizations. Since the CEO feels his/her current priorities are successful, there is no pressure to change. It suggests that consultants and advisors are not able to convince the CEO that there are better (Customer-centric) options. In other words, the lack of organizational change is due to the fact that consultants fail to make a strong enough case for change. This article then helps the advisor develop arguments about tasks versus priorities and the effective use of time (if the lack of time is used as an excuse) in order to assist them in making the case for change. Another problem is that these advisors confuse the executives with various Customer terms and portray their terms as the only way to success, be they Customer experience (CX), Customer journey, Customer value, Customer effort, etc. This article goes on to show what Customer-Centric and Customer value creation ideas the CEO should use in order to facilitate change. It shows how Customer priority can change and what is the impact of that change. A complete and revolutionary transformation of the company is required to make it Customer-Centric.
Risk stratification of chromosomal abnormalities in chronic myelogenous leukemia in the era of tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy
Authors: Wang Wei , Cortes Jorge E. , Tang Guilin , Khoury Joseph D. , Wang Sa , Bueso-Ramos Carlos E. , DiGiuseppe Joseph A. , Chen Zi , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Hu Shimin
Published: March 2016

Key Points

Based on their impact on treatment and survival, ACAs in CML were stratified into good and poor prognostic groups. ACAs in the good prognostic group showed no adverse impact on survival when they emerged from chronic phase or at the initial CML diagnosis.
McTwo: a two-step feature selection algorithm based on maximal information coefficient
Authors: Ge Ruiquan , Zhou Manli , Luo Youxi , Meng Qinghan , Mai Guoqin , Ma Dongli , Wang Guoqing , Zhou Fengfeng
Published: March 2016

Background

High-throughput bio-OMIC technologies are producing high-dimension data from bio-samples at an ever increasing rate, whereas the training sample number in a traditional experiment remains small due to various difficulties. This “large p, small n” paradigm in the area of biomedical “big data” may be at least partly solved by feature selection algorithms, which select only features significantly associated with phenotypes. Feature selection is an NP-hard problem. Due to the exponentially increased time requirement for finding the globally optimal solution, all the existing feature selection algorithms employ heuristic rules to find locally optimal solutions, and their solutions achieve different performances on different datasets.

Results

This work describes a feature selection algorithm based on a recently published correlation measurement, Maximal Information Coefficient (MIC). The proposed algorithm, McTwo, aims to select features associated with phenotypes, independently of each other, and achieving high classification performance of the nearest neighbor algorithm. Based on the comparative study of 17 datasets, McTwo performs about as well as or better than existing algorithms, with significantly reduced numbers of selected features. The features selected by McTwo also appear to have particular biomedical relevance to the phenotypes from the literature.

Conclusion

McTwo selects a feature subset with very good classification performance, as well as a small feature number. So McTwo may represent a complementary feature selection algorithm for the high-dimensional biomedical datasets.
Detecting broad domains and narrow peaks in ChIP-seq data with hiddenDomains
Authors: Starmer Joshua , Magnuson Terry
Published: March 2016

Background

Correctly identifying genomic regions enriched with histone modifications and transcription factors is key to understanding their regulatory and developmental roles. Conceptually, these regions are divided into two categories, narrow peaks and broad domains, and different algorithms are used to identify each one. Datasets that span these two categories are often analyzed with a single program for peak calling combined with an ad hoc method for domains.

Results

We developed hiddenDomains, which identifies both peaks and domains, and compare it to the leading algorithms using H3K27me3, H3K36me3, GABP, ESR1 and FOXA ChIP-seq datasets. The output from the programs was compared to qPCR-validated enriched and depleted sites, predicted transcription factor binding sites, and highly-transcribed gene bodies. With every method, hiddenDomains, performed as well as, if not better than algorithms dedicated to a specific type of analysis.

Conclusions

hiddenDomains performs as well as the best domain and peak calling algorithms, making it ideal for analyzing ChIP-seq datasets, especially those that contain a mixture of peaks and domains.
The PHR proteins: intracellular signaling hubs in neuronal development and axon degeneration
Authors: Grill Brock , Murphey Rodney K. , Borgen Melissa A.
Published: March 2016

During development, a coordinated and integrated series of events must be accomplished in order to generate functional neural circuits. Axons must navigate toward target cells, build synaptic connections, and terminate outgrowth. The PHR proteins (consisting of mammalian Phr1/MYCBP2, Drosophila Highwire and C. elegans RPM-1) function in each of these events in development. Here, we review PHR function across species, as well as the myriad of signaling pathways PHR proteins regulate. These findings collectively suggest that the PHR proteins are intracellular signaling hubs, a concept we explore in depth. Consistent with prominent developmental functions, genetic links have begun to emerge between PHR signaling networks and neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, schizophrenia and intellectual disability. Finally, we discuss the recent and important finding that PHR proteins regulate axon degeneration, which has further heightened interest in this fascinating group of molecules.