bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementing Knowledge Management
Authors: Chan Peng , Pollard Dennis , Puriveth Piboon
Published: February 2016

The growing reliance on intellectual assets to gain competitive advantage has necessitated the development and implementation of knowledge management systems in order to collect, organize and transfer all of the knowledge accumulated by modern organizations.  This study is presented as a consolidation of previous research performed in this area, and integrates this work with a meta-analysis of two real life case studies.  The corresponding results suggest that the tacit/explicit dimension of knowledge is a strong indicator of the type of knowledge management strategy a given company should follow.
Barriers To B2C Segment Of E-Business
Authors: Khan M. B. , Martin Merle
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this paper is to identify several barriers affecting B2C segment growth and to project technological advances that may soften or eliminate these barriers.  Included in the paper is an analysis of the interrelationship between barriers and products.  Finally, the paper presents the impact of technology-controlled and human-controlled factors on Internet sale.
Price Discovery In The Soybean Futures Market
Authors: Adrangi Bahram , Chatrath Arjun , Raffiee Kambiz
Published: February 2016

This paper investigates the price discovery process between the nearby futures prices of soybean, soy meal, and soy oil contracts (Crush constituents) in the U.S.   Relationships between these commodities may bear important implications for trading strategies, market inefficiencies, or the derived demand theory.  Furthermore, our findings are relevant in light of market microstructure theories, which maintain that the price information disseminates from more liquid contracts.  Our VAR and bivariate GARCH model estimates suggest a strong bi-directional causality in Crush futures prices.  We also find that while soybean contracts bear the burden of convergence when the spread between soybean and soy meal contract prices widens, this is not true of soybean and soy oil contracts.  Furthermore, we show evidence of considerable volatility persistence for the three contracts and volatility spillover between soybean and other Crush constituent futures.  The statistical evidence suggests that information arrives in these markets simultaneously.  Our findings do not support the derived demand theory.
AACSB Accredited Business Programs: Differences And Similarities
Authors: Corcoran Charles P.
Published: February 2016

Under AACSB mission driven standards, three tiers of business programs have emerged: doctoral level, masters level and baccalaureate level. AACSB institutions in these three tiers are significantly different in many respects. Given that institutional differences are so large and widespread among the three tiers, what, then, are the characteristics, if any, which give AACSB-accredited programs a common identity? Evidence is presented that faculty perceptions are quite similar, regardless of program tier. Thus, the common bind of these diverse programs is measured less in terms of resources and more in terms of a shared ethic of mission-driven excellence.
An Investigation Of Selected Dimensions Of Retail Store Image: Bricks And Mortar Versus Online
Authors: Wadsworth Frank , Little Eldon , Wheat Jerry , Swartz Brenda
Published: February 2016

Research examining the components of retail store image has focused on the most important features to customers. Merchandise return policy, an element of the Service dimension, has not been well researched. In the past decade the Internet has created another means to market products, and research relating to merchandise return policies for sales of Internet firms is virtually non-existent. This study compares the merchandise return policy in both bricks and mortar and Internet firms. Merchandise return policy appears to e a fertile area for future research.
The Asset Allocation Decisions Of Individual Investors
Authors: Alvarez Marta , Rodriguez Javier
Published: February 2016

The asset allocation decisions of individual investors are evaluated using survey data. By applying a methodology based on attribution returns we are able to assess the forecasting ability of a group of well-informed individual investors. We find that, if this group of investors follows their survey answers with investment actions, they add value to their overall wealth by actively managing their portfolios. These investors demonstrate good forecasting ability by effectively shifting their portfolios allocations. Finally, using two different time partitions, based on the general state of the stock market, we find that this group of investors managed their portfolios better during poor market conditions.
Identifying Engines Of Growth In A Substate Economy
Authors: Dunne Maureen , Meaney Martha , Sjuib Fahlino , Schumacher Charles , Stevens Sean
Published: February 2016

In the current economy, states and substate regions seek to identify the sources of economic growth in order to improve economic development efforts.  The objectives of the paper are threefold.  First, using selected economic criteria, we examine the growth in the labor force of the substate region.  Second, using selected economic indicators, we detect the existence of growth in employment, establishments, payroll and wages in the substate region.  Finally, we explore the causal relationship among selected economic variables in the substate region and determine the direction of causality between variables.  Several techniques and analyses are used in this study, including labor force analysis, location quotients, and the error correction model. The methodology and economic indicators used in this research can be applied to similar substate regions allowing comparison among regions and facilitating regional economic development efforts.
The Influence Of Birth Order On Financial Risk Tolerance
Authors: Gilliam John , Chatterjee Swarn
Published: February 2016

This study examines birth order as a predictor of financial risk tolerance. Three hundred sixty-eight individuals, drawn predominantly from a large university in the Southwestern United States, completed a psychometrically sound financial risk tolerance measure (Grable and Lytton, 1999). The results confirmed previous literature in regard to gender and education as predictors of risk tolerance. However, for the first time, firstborn individuals were shown to be significantly less risk tolerant than later-born individuals. Furthermore, it was shown that later-born males were more likely than the first-born to have a majority of their portfolios allocated in stock; additionally the later-born males were more likely than the later-born females to hold a greater proportion of their assets in stocks.
A Qualitative Study Of The Strategic Plans Of Three Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Aleong Chandra , Aleong John
Published: February 2016

This research will use qualitative measures to determine differences in strategy between an Ivy-League Majority University, like the University of Pennsylvania, and two historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). One of the HBCUs selected will be based on U.S. News & World Report as one of Americas best black colleges. The other will be Delaware State University. The source of the data will be archival and would include interviews and surveys. The objective is to determine best practices in strategy and implementation that can be applied to institutions to gain competitive advantage. Another goal is to add to the body of research about higher education institutions.
Exploring Occupational And Strategic Drivers Of Individual Customer Orientation
Authors: Dursun Turkan , Kilic Ceyhan
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate occupational and strategic drivers and performance consequences of individual customer orientation in the marketing/selling context via a conceptual framework. The occupational drivers are job involvement, role ambiguity/conflict, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment and the strategic driver is market orientation. The performance outcomes are relationship development and individual performance. The proposed model was tested over a random sample of 2000 marketers from a broad spectrum of businesses. The final sample consisted of 189 usable responses. A structural equation modeling analysis was used for model specification and hypothesis testing. According to the study results, there is a positive and significant relationship between market orientation and customer orientation. Also, organizational commitment and role conflict impact customer orientation significantly and positively. The effects of role ambiguity and job involvement on customer orientation are negative and significant. The study results also revealed that higher levels of customer orientation lead to higher levels of relationship development and individual performance. Managerial implications and future research avenues were also discussed.
This manuscript is no longer available
Authors: Withheld Name
Published: February 2016

This manuscrpt was retracted on August 19, 2014. Please contact our office at Journals@CluteInstitute.com for more information.
The Impact Of Entry And Competition On Airline Departure Frequency
Authors: Manuela Jr Wilfred S.
Published: February 2016

This paper examines how entry and competition impact departure frequency using data from 19902009 on a number of routes served by at least two airlines. The estimated frequency equation indicates that an additional airline at the route level results in a slight decrease in the number of departures despite a substantial increase in passenger traffic since the industry was liberalized in 1995. The results suggest that domestic airlines have shifted to relatively larger aircraft and operate them at higher load factors. The use of larger aircraft operated at higher load factors may indicate their inability to secure additional landing slots, suggesting that investments in air transport infrastructure have not kept pace with demand. Fewer departures indicate that the waiting time between flights has increased, reducing the probability of matching the passengers preferred departure times with scheduled flights. The longer waiting time between flights and more congestion inside the aircraft due to higher load factors suggest that the service quality of air transport has deteriorated in the post-regulation period.
Effects of the Global and Domestic Business and Economic Factors on Aggregate Output in Austria
Authors: Hsing Yu , Krenn Mario
Published: February 2016

Based on a quarterly sample during 2003.Q1 – 2015.Q1, this paper finds that Austria’s aggregate output is positively affected by the lagged German or U.S. output, the real oil price and labor productivity and is negatively influenced by real effective exchange rate appreciation, the real lending rate, central government debt as a percent of GDP and the expected inflation rate. Hence, a rising oil price would not harm aggregate output, and recent depreciation of the euro would be beneficial to aggregate output.
APLIKASI SENSOR CAHAYA UNTUK ALARM ANTI PENCURI
Authors: Muzaki Asita Shoman , Saptadi Arief Hendra , Pamungkas Wahyu
Published: February 2016

Kasus pencurian di rumah kosong yang ditinggal pergi oleh pemiliknya belakangan ini marak terjadi. Berangkat dari pemikiran ini penulis mencoba merancang alarm yang dapat mendeteksi pergerakan seseorang saat rumah dalam kondisi kosong, ditinggalkan oleh pemiliknya. Alat ini mempunyai prinsip kerja yaitu mendeteksi bayangan seseorang yang melewati titik tertentu. Perancangan dan pembuatan perangkat ini menggunakan sensor cahaya berupa LASER dan LDR yang dirangkai dengan transistor sebagai saklar otomatis serta LED dan telepon rumah untuk melakukan panggilan kepada nomor telepon pemilik rumah. Komponen yang dipakai dalam pembuatan perangkat ini antara lain IC LM7805, LASER pointer, resistor, transistor BC108, LED, relay dan telepon rumah. Perancangan dan pembuatan alat menggunakan software multisim 10.1 sebagai simulator rangkaian, dan software eagle 5.1.1 untuk mendesain jalur rangkaian pada papan PCB. Saat cahaya LASER tidak sampai ke LDR karena terhalang oleh sesuatu, maka rangkaian output yang berupa indikator LED dan panggilan dari telepon rumah akan aktif.

Kata kunci: alarm, sensor cahaya, saklar otomatis, relay.
Urgensi Kejaksaan Diatur oleh Konstitusi
Authors: Patra Rommy
Published: February 2016

Eksistensi kejaksaan dalam struktur ketatanegaraan Indonesia memiliki posisi yang dilematis selama ini. Di satu sisi, kejaksaan adalah lembaga penegak hukum yang menjalankan kekuasaan penuntutan secara independen, sedangkan di sisi lain adalah bagian dari lembaga pemerintahan berdasarkan Undang-Undang Nomor Nomor 16 Tahun 2004 tentang Kejaksaan Republik Indonesia. Kedudukan kejaksaan sebagai lembaga pemerintahan selama ini dirasakan menyebabkan independensi kejaksaan tidak optimal sehingga muncul stigma bahwa kejaksaan hanyalah sebagai alat kekuasaan dari yang memerintah. Selain itu, ditinjau dari segi pengaturan yang hanya berdasarkan undang-undang, kejaksaan tidak mempunyai legal standing sebagai organ konstitusi yang mempunyai kewenangan konstitusional sehingga kedudukannya saat ini tidak merefleksikan urgensitas tugas dan fungsi yang dimilikinya. Dalam upaya menata institusi kejaksaan ke depan sebaiknya diatur langsung oleh konstitusi. Hal ini dimaksudkan untuk menjadikan kejaksaan sebagai bagian dari main state organ yang mempunyai legal standing sama seperti lembaga penegak hukum lainya, yaitu Kepolisian dan Pengadilan (Mahkamah Agung dan Mahkamah Konstitusi). Selain itu, untuk memerkuat dan memerjelas kedudukan sebagai lembaga negara, memusatkan kewenangan penuntutan berada di kejaksaan sebagai central of authority, membenahi hubungan kelembagaan antar sesama penegak hukum maupun lembaga terkait dan memperkuat independensi kejaksaan dalam menjalankan fungsi penuntutan dalam struktur ketatanegaraan Indonesia.
A Meta‐Analysis of Maize and Wheat Yields in Low‐Input vs. Conventional and Organic Systems
Authors: Hossard Laure , Archer David W. , Bertrand Michel , Colnenne‐David Caroline , Debaeke Philippe , Ernfors Maria , Jeuffroy Marie‐Helene , Munier‐Jolain Nicolas , Nilsson Chris , Sanford Gregg R. , Snapp Sieg S. , Jensen Erik S. , Makowski David
Published: February 2016

Organic and low‐input systems are proposed as ways to reduce the environmental impacts of agriculture. Previous studies have shown that yields of organic systems can be ∼19 to 25% lower than conventional systems. An intermediary, low‐input system could be less damaging for the environment than conventional systems, while reducing yield losses in comparison with organic systems. In this study, we performed a meta‐analysis to compare low‐input systems to conventional and organic systems. Our analysis is based on data of cropping system experiments conducted in Europe and North America, and focuses on two important crops, maize (Zea mays L.) and soft winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Pesticide use was greatly reduced for low‐input systems as compared with conventional for the two crops (50% for maize, 70% for wheat on average). Mean mineral N use was also reduced by 36% for maize and 28% for wheat in low‐input relative to conventional. Maize yields in low‐input systems were not different from those in conventional systems, and were higher than yields in organic systems (yield ratio of low‐input vs. organic = 1.24). Wheat yields in low‐input systems were lower than yields in conventional systems (yield ratio of low‐input vs. conventional = 0.88), but were substantially higher than yields in organic systems (yield ratio of low input vs. organic = 1.43). This is one of the first meta‐analyses to assess performance in terms of pesticide use intensity, and yields, with clear evidence emerging that low‐input systems can markedly reduce pesticide application, without strongly reducing crop yields, relative to conventional systems.

Core Ideas

Maize yields are equivalent for tested low‐input and conventional systems.

Maize yields are on average 24% higher for tested low‐input relative to organic.

Wheat yield average is 12% lower in tested low‐input than in conventional systems.

Wheat yields are on average 43% higher for tested low‐input relative to organic.

Mean pesticide use is more than halved in low‐input compared to conventional systems.
Effect of carrier fill ratio on biofilm properties and performance of a hybrid fixed-film bioreactor treating coal gasification wastewater for the removal of COD, phenols and ammonia-nitrogen
Authors: Rava E. , Chirwa E.
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect different biofilm carrier filling ratios would have on biofilm morphology and activity and bacterial diversity in a hybrid fixed-film bioreactor treating high strength coal gasification wastewater (CGWW) for the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), phenols and ammonia-nitrogen. Results showed that a carrier fill of 70% formed a ‘compact’ biofilm, a 50% fill formed a ‘rippling’ biofilm and a 30% fill formed a ‘porous’ biofilm. The highest microbial activity was obtained with a 50% carrier fill supporting a relatively thin biofilm. The highest level of biofilm bound metals were aluminium, silicon, calcium and iron in the ‘compact’ biofilm; nitrogen, magnesium, chloride, sodium and potassium in the ‘rippling’ biofilm, and copper in the ‘porous’ biofilm. The bioreactor improved the quality of the CGWW by removing 49% and 78% of the COD and phenols, respectively. However, no significant amount of ammonia-nitrogen was removed since nitrification did not take place due to heterotrophic bacteria out-competing autotrophic nitrifying bacteria in the biofilm. The dominant heterotrophic genera identified for all three carrier filling ratios were Thauera, Pseudaminobacter, Pseudomonas and Diaphorobacter.
Improved COD Measurements for Organic Content in Flowback Water with High Chloride Concentrations
Authors: Cardona Isabel , Park Ho Il , Lin Lian‐Shin
Published: February 2016

An improved method was used to determine chemical oxygen demand (COD) as a measure of organic content in water samples containing high chloride content. A contour plot of COD percent error in the Cl–‐Cl–:COD domain showed that COD errors increased with Cl–:COD. Substantial errors (>10%) could occur in low Cl–:COD regions (<300) for samples with low (<10 g/L) and high chloride concentrations (>25 g/L). Applying the method to flowback water samples resulted in COD concentrations ranging in 130 to 1060 mg/L, which were substantially lower than the previously reported values for flowback water samples from Marcellus Shale (228 to 21 900 mg/L). It is likely that overestimations of COD in the previous studies occurred as result of chloride interferences. Pretreatment with mercuric sulfate, and use of a low‐strength digestion solution, and the contour plot to correct COD measurements are feasible steps to significantly improve the accuracy of COD measurements.
Another way of looking at treatment stability
Authors: Zinad Kaoutar , Schols Annemie M.W.J. , Schols Jan G.J.H.
Published: February 2016

Objective: 

To determine the contribution of normal physiological changes to the overall manifestation of a relapse after orthodontic treatment. We analyzed long-term changes in the dentition of patients with Class I malocclusions after orthodontic treatment compared with a representative group with untreated Class I malocclusions.

Materials and Methods: 

Study participants (n  =  66; mean age, 12 years at treatment initiation) were treated for Class I malocclusions. Dental changes were evaluated at 2, 5, 10, and 15 years after treatment. Control participants (n  =  79) had untreated Class I malocclusions (n  =  53 evaluated at ages 12 and 22 years; n  =  26 evaluated at ages 19 and 39 years). Dental changes were evaluated with the Peer Assessment Rating (PAR) index.

Results: 

In untreated and treated groups, PAR scores increased over time with gender-specific changes. In the untreated groups, the PAR score significantly increased in male participants between the ages of 12 and 22 years (P  =  .04) and in female participants between the ages of 19 and 39 years (P  =  .001). In the treated group, early posttreatment changes were primarily related to the initial treatment response. Later changes in the PAR score could be attributed to physiological changes, with the same gender-specific changes as those observed in the untreated group.

Conclusions: 

The pattern of physiological changes in dentition for participants between the ages of 12 and 39 was different between sexes. Females showed more relapse than males between 10 and 15 years posttreatment. This distinction should be considered when evaluating long-term orthodontic treatment responses.
Case Report: A Predictable Technique to Establish Occlusal Contact in Extensive Direct Composite Resin Restorations: The DSO-Technique
Authors: Opdam NJM , Skupien JA , Kreulen CM , Roeters JJM , Loomans BAC , Huysmans MC DNJM
Published: February 2016

This paper describes the application technique of direct shaping by occlusion (DSO) for large composite restorations including the entire occlusal surface. For this technique, matrix bands and wedges are inserted without interference with antagonists in the desired occlusion. The final increment of soft-composite resin is shaped by letting the patient occlude on the uncured composite. Due to the nature of the technique, special care has to be taken for moisture control and handling of contamination. The procedure, advantages, and limitations of the technique are discussed.
Treatment of Dentin Hypersensitivity Using Nano-Hydroxyapatite Pastes: A Randomized Three-Month Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang L , Magalhães AC , Francisconi-dos-Rios LF , Calabria MP , Araújo DFG , Buzalaf MAR , Lauris JRP , Pereira JC
Published: February 2016

Objectives: This randomized clinical trial tested the three-month desensitizing effect of two protocols using nano-hydroxyapatite formulations compared with Pro-Argin and fluoride varnish.

Methods: Twenty-eight subjects with 137 teeth presenting dentin exposure with a minimal hypersensitivity of four on the visual analog scale (VAS) took part of this study. The subjects were randomly assigned to four groups: Desensibilize Nano-P paste (20% hydroxyapatite [HAP], potassium nitrate, and sodium fluoride [NaF]; 9000 ppm fluoride [F]); Desensibilize Nano-P associated with experimental home-care pastes (10% HA, potassium nitrate, and NaF; 900 ppm F); Pro-Relief professional paste (8% arginine with Pro-Argin technology) associated with home-care toothpaste (8% arginine, sodium monofluorophosphate, 1450 ppm F); and Duraphat professional varnish (NaF varnish, 22,600 ppm F). The professional treatments were performed in weekly appointments over three weeks. The home-care products were used continuously for three months. A VAS was used to assess the tooth sensitivity response after standardized evaporative stimulus at baseline and after one month and three months. The baseline score was deducted from the final score, and the means were analyzed using nested analysis of variance, while the comparison between times was performed by a general linear model (p<0.05).

Results: At the first month all treatments were effective, but there were no significant differences among them (p=0.94). At the third month, despite the fact that NaF varnish had the lowest effect in reducing hypersensitivity, no significant difference was found among the treatments (p=0.09). Only Pro-Relief increased its effect over time (p=0.049).

Conclusions: Nano-hydroxyapatite formulations (with or without home->care product association) were as effective as the other treatments in reducing dentin hypersensitivity over three months.
Extended Resin Composite Restorations: Techniques and Procedures
Authors: Loomans B , Hilton T
Published: February 2016

This article gives an overview of the state of the art of different restorative treatment procedures and techniques needed for placing extended posterior resin composite restorations. Clinical aspects related to the procedure are discussed and reviewed based on the current literature, such as the use of proper adhesive restorative materials, use of liners and bases, moisture control, reconstruction of proximal contacts, extended resin composite restorations, and techniques to address restoring teeth with deep subgingival margins.
Dimension, hardness and prediction models of bionic coupling units processed by laser for gray cast iron
Authors: Zhang Panpan , Zhang Zhihui , Zhang Baoyu , Tong Xin , Liang Yunhong , Li Xiujuan , Ren Luquan
Published: February 2016

Inspired by the coupling phenomenon in biological system, the gray cast iron specimens with the bionic coupling stripes were fabricated by laser. The effects of laser processing parameters on the dimension and hardness of bionic coupling units were investigated and discussed. Regression-orthogonal design was adopted in this study to develop the mathematical models, which showed the clear quantitative relationship between the laser processing parameters and the geometrical dimension and hardness of bionic coupling units. The models developed were checked for their significance by using F-test. Both the significant test and the verification test results demonstrated that the mathematical models developed were accurate and reliable in the experimental range. Based on the models, the maximum diameter, penetration depth and the maximum average hardness of bionic coupling units of gray cast iron were obtained. The diameter, penetration depth and average hardness of bionic coupling stripes under different laser processing parameters could be predicted to meet the requirement of bionic manufacturing by the mathematical equations. And the adjustment of laser processing parameters was an effective method to improve the fabrication quality of bionic coupling units.
Evaluation of the anesthetic efficacy of alfaxalone in oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus)
Authors: Bugman Alice M. , Langer Peter T. , Hadzima Eva , Rivas Anne E. , Mitchell Mark A.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE To evaluate effects of alfaxalone on heart rate (HR), opercular rate (OpR), results of blood gas analysis, and responses to noxious stimuli in oscar fish (Astronotus ocellatus).

ANIMALS 6 healthy subadult oscar fish.

PROCEDURES Each fish was immersed in water containing 5 mg of alfaxalone/L. Water temperature was maintained at 25.1°C, and water quality was appropriate for this species. The HR, OpR, response to noxious stimuli, and positioning in the tank were evaluated, and blood samples for blood gas analysis were collected before (baseline), during, and after anesthesia.

RESULTS Immersion anesthesia of oscar fish with alfaxalone (5 mg/L) was sufficient for collection of diagnostic samples in all fish. Mean ± SD induction time was 11 ± 3.8 minutes (minimum, 5 minutes; maximum, 15 minutes), and mean recovery time was 37.5 ± 13.7 minutes (minimum, 20 minutes; maximum, 55 minutes). There was a significant difference in OpR over time, with respiratory rates significantly decreasing between baseline and anesthesia and then significantly increasing between anesthesia and recovery. There was no significant difference in HR over time. Median lactate concentrations were significantly increased in all anesthetized fish. Other physiologic or blood gas variables did not change significantly.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Alfaxalone should be considered as a readily available and easy-to-use anesthetic for oscar fish. Because it is more likely to be found in veterinary hospitals than other traditional anesthetics for fish, its value as an anesthetic for other species of fish should also be considered.
Changes in pulse pressure variation and plethysmographic variability index caused by hypotension-inducing hemorrhage followed by volume replacement in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs
Authors: Klein Adriana V. , Teixeira-Neto Francisco J. , Garofalo Natache A. , Lagos-Carvajal Angie P. , Diniz Miriely S. , Becerra-Velásquez Diana R.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE To compare changes in pulse pressure variation (PPV) and plethysmographic variability index (PVI) induced by hemorrhage followed by volume replacement (VR) in isoflurane-anesthetized dogs.

ANIMALS 7 healthy adult dogs.

PROCEDURE Each dog was anesthetized with isoflurane and mechanically ventilated. End-tidal isoflurane concentration was adjusted to maintain mean arterial pressure (MAP) at 60 to 70 mm Hg before hemorrhage. Controlled hemorrhage was initiated and continued until the MAP decreased to 40 to 50 mm Hg, then autologous blood removed during hemorrhage was retransfused during VR. Various physiologic variables including PPV and PVI were recorded immediately before (baseline) and after controlled hemorrhage and immediately after VR.

RESULTS Mean ± SD PPV and PVI were significantly increased from baseline after hemorrhage (PPV, 20 ± 6%; PVI, 18 ± 4%). After VR, the mean PPV (7 ± 3%) returned to a value similar to baseline, whereas the mean PVI (10 ± 3%) was significantly lower than that at baseline. Cardiac index (CI) and stroke index (SI) were significantly decreased from baseline after hemorrhage (CI, 2.07 ± 0.26 L/min/m2; SI, 20 ± 3 mL/beat/m2) and returned to values similar to baseline after VR (CI, 4.25 ± 0.63 L/min/m2; SI, 36 ± 6 mL/beat/m2). There was a significant positive correlation (r2 = 0.77) between PPV and PVI after hemorrhage.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that both PPV and PVI may be useful for identification of dogs that respond to VR with increases in SI and CI (ie, dogs in the preload-dependent limb of the Frank-Starling curve).
Effects of a medetomidine-ketamine combination on Schirmer tear test I results of clinically normal cats
Authors: Di Pietro Simona , Macrì Francesco , Bonarrigo Tiziana , Giudice Elisabetta , Palumbo Piccionello Angela , Pugliese Antonio
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of a medetomidine-ketamine combination on tear production of clinically normal cats by use of the Schirmer tear test (STT) 1 before and during anesthesia and after reversal of medetomidine with atipamezole.

ANIMALS 40 client-owned crossbred domestic shorthair cats (23 males and 17 females; age range, 6 to 24 months).

PROCEDURES A complete physical examination, CBC, and ophthalmic examination were performed on each cat. Cats with no abnormalities on physical and ophthalmic examinations were included in the study. Cats were allocated into 2 groups: a control group (n = 10 cats) anesthetized by administration of a combination of medetomidine hydrochloride (80 μg/kg) and ketamine hydrochloride (5 mg/kg), and an experimental group (30) anesthetized with the medetomidine-ketamine combination and reversal by administration of atipamezole. Tear production of both eyes of each cat was measured by use of the STT I before anesthesia, 15 minutes after the beginning of anesthesia, and 15 minutes after administration of atipamezole.

RESULTS Anesthesia with a medetomidine-ketamine combination of cats with no ophthalmic disease caused a significant decrease in tear production. The STT I values returned nearly to preanesthetic values within 15 minutes after reversal with atipamezole, whereas the STT I values for the control group were still low at that point.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that a tear substitute should be administered to eyes of cats anesthetized with a medetomidine-ketamine combination from the time of anesthetic administration until at least 15 minutes after administration of atipamezole.
Critical Discourse Analysis in Education
Authors: Rogers Rebecca , Schaenen Inda , Schott Christopher , O’Brien Kathryn , Trigos-Carrillo Lina , Starkey Kim , Chasteen Cynthia Carter
Published: February 2016

This article reviews critical discourse analysis scholarship in education research from 2004 to 2012. Our methodology was carried out in three stages. First, we searched educational databases. Second, we completed an analytic review template for each article and encoded these data into a digital spreadsheet to assess macro-trends in the field. Third, we developed schemata to interpret the complexity of research design. Our examination of 257 articles reveals trends in research questions, the theories researchers find useful, and the kinds of interactions that capture their attention. We explore areas in the field especially ripe for debate and critique: reflexivity, deconstructive–reconstructive stance toward inquiry, and social action. We compare the findings with an earlier review published in 2005, reflecting on three decades of critical discourse analysis in education research.
Investigation of the abrasive wear behavior of an aluminum alloy and its Al2O3 particle reinforced composite by statistical analysis
Authors: Basavarajappa S. , Manjunath Yadav S. , Chandrakumar Chakrasali , Arun K. V.
Published: February 2016

This experimental investigation deals with the evaluation of abrasive wear behavior of Al alloy and Al2O3 particle reinforced Al alloy metal matrix composites on a pin-on-disc test rig, where the specimens were slided against a 600 grade SiCP emery paper. The specimen preparation and experimentation have been carried out according to the ASTM G-99 standard. A plan of experiments based on the Taguchi design of experiments was developed to acquire data in controlled way. An orthogonal array and the analysis of variance were employed to investigate the percentage of contribution of various process parameters like sliding speed, applied load, sliding distance and their interactions affecting the abrasive wear volume loss of the materials. The correlations between the various factors affecting the abrasive wear behavior of composites were obtained by using multiple linear regression equations. The experimental results showed that the sliding distance has more contribution on the abrasive wear followed by applied load for both materials. The predicted volume loss of the specimens was found to lie close to that of the experimentally observed ones.
Effects of machining parameters and reinforcement content on thrust force during drilling of hybrid composites
Authors: Aldaş Kemal , Özkul İskender , Hayajneh Mohammed T.
Published: February 2016

In this study, aluminum metal matrix composites were fabricated using the powder metallurgy technique with different ratios of alumina (Al2O3) and graphite as reinforcing elements. The obtained workpieces were then drilled using different machining parameters and the thrust force was measured using a force dynamometer. The thrust force data were modeled using a gene programming soft-computing technique and a function was obtained using the input parameters.
The Effects of Glucose Therapy Agents—Apple Juice, Orange Juice, and Cola—on Enteral Tube Flow and Patency
Authors: Steinberg Daphna J. , Montreuil Jasmine , Santoro Andrea L. , Zettas Antonia , Lowe Julia
Published: February 2016

To develop evidence-based hypoglycemia treatment protocols in patients receiving total enteral nutrition, this study determined the effect on enteral tube flow of glucose therapy agents: apple juice, orange juice, and cola, and it also examined the effects of tube type and feed type with these glucose therapy agents. For this study, 12 gastrostomy tubes (6 polyethylene and 6 silicone) were set at 50 mL/h. Each feeding set was filled with Isosource HN with fibre or Novasource Renal. Each tube was irrigated with 1 glucose therapy agent, providing approximately 20 g of carbohydrate every 4 h. Flow-rate measurements were collected at 2 h intervals. The results showed that the glucose therapy agent choice affected flow rates: apple juice and cola had higher average flow rates than orange juice (P = 0.01). A significant difference was found between tube type and enteral formula: polyethylene tubes had higher average flow rates than silicone tubes (P < 0.0001), and Isosource HN with fibre had higher flow rates than Novasource Renal (P = 0.01). We concluded that apple juice and cola have less tube clogging potential than orange juice, and thus may be considered as primary treatment options for hypoglycemia in enterally fed patients. Polyethylene tubes and Isosource HN with fibre were less likely to clog than silicone tubes and Novasource Renal.
Less-aggressive surgical management and long-term outcomes of jugular foramen paragangliomas: a neurosurgical perspective
Authors: Li Da , Zeng Xiao-Jun , Hao Shu-Yu , Wang Liang , Tang Jie , Xiao Xin-Ru , Meng Guo-Lu , Jia Gui-Jun , Zhang Li-Wei , Wu Zhen , Zhang Jun-Ting
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze the neurological functional outcome and recurrent risks in surgically treated jugular foramen paragangliomas (JFPs) and to propose an individualized therapeutic strategy.

METHODS

Clinical charts and radiological information were reviewed retrospectively in 51 consecutive cases of JFPs. Less-aggressive surgical interventions were adopted with the goal of preserving neurovascular structures. Scheduled follow-up was performed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients in the cases reviewed was 41.6 years, and the group included 27 females (52.9%). The mean preoperative Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score was 78.4. The mean lesion size was 3.8 cm. Forty-three cases (84.3%) were Fisch Type D, including 37 cases (72.5%) of Type Di1 and Di2. Thirty-seven cases (72.5%) were Glasscock-Jackson Type III–IV. Gross-total resection and subtotal resection were achieved in 26 (51.0%) and 22 (43.1%) cases, respectively. Surgical morbidities occurred in 23 patients (45.1%), without surgery-related mortality after the first operation. The mean postoperative KPS scores at discharge, 3 months, 1 year, and most recent evaluation were 71.8, 77.2, 83.2, and 79.6, respectively. The mean follow-up duration was 85.7 months. The tumor recurrence/regrowth (R/R) rate was 11.8%. Compared with preoperative status, swallowing function improved or stabilized in 96.1% and facial function improved or stabilized in 94.1% of patients. A House-Brackmann scale Grade I/II was achieved in 43 patients (84.3%). Overall neurological status improved or stabilized in 90.0% of patients. Pathological mitosis (HR 10.640, p = 0.009) was the most significant risk for tumor R/R. A 1-year increase in age (OR 1.115, p = 0.037) and preoperative KPS score < 80 (OR 11.071, p = 0.018) indicated a risk for recent poor neurological function (KPS < 80). Overall R/R-free survival, symptom progression–free survival, and overall survival at 15 years were 78.9%, 86.8%, and 80.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical outcomes for JFPs were acceptable using a less-aggressive surgical strategy. Most patients could adapt to surgical morbidities and carry out normal life activities. Preserving neurological function was a priority, and maximal decompression with or without radiotherapy was desirable to preserve a patient's quality of life when radical resection was not warranted. Early surgery plus preoperative devascularization was proposed, and radiotherapy was mandatory for lesions with pathological mitosis.
Longitudinal measurements of syrinx size in a rat model of posttraumatic syringomyelia
Authors: Najafi Elmira , Bilston Lynne E. , Song Xin , Bongers Andre , Stoodley Marcus A , Cheng Shaokoon , Hemley Sarah J.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

Syringomyelia pathophysiology is commonly studied using rodent models. However, in vivo studies of posttraumatic syringomyelia have been limited by the size of animals and lack of reliable noninvasive evaluation techniques. Imaging the rat spinal cord is particularly challenging because the spinal cord diameter is approximately 1–3 mm, and pathological lesions within the spinal cord parenchyma are even smaller. The standard technique has been histological evaluation, but this has its limitations. The aim of the present study was to determine whether syrinx size could be reliably measured using a preclinical high-field MRI animal system in a rat model of posttraumatic syringomyelia.

METHODS

The authors used an existing rat model of posttraumatic syringomyelia, which was created using a controlled pneumatic compression device to produce the initial spinal cord injury, followed by a subarachnoid injection of kaolin to produce arachnoiditis. T2-weighted MRI was performed on each animal using a 9.4-T scanner at 7, 10, and 13 weeks after injury. Animals were killed and syrinx sizes were calculated from in vivo MRI and histological studies.

RESULTS

MRI measurements of syrinx volume and length were closely correlated to histological measurements across all time points (Pearson product moment correlation coefficient r = ± 0.93 and 0.79, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that high-field T2-weighted MRI can be used to measure syrinx size, and data correlate well with syrinx size measured using histological methods. Preclinical MRI may be a valuable noninvasive technique for tracking syrinx formation and enlargement in animal models of syringomyelia.
The impact of hybrid neurosurgeons on the outcomes of endovascular coiling for unruptured cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Bekelis Kimon , Gottlieb Dan , Labropoulos Nicos , Su Yin , Tjoumakaris Stavropoula , Jabbour Pascal , MacKenzie Todd A.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

The impact of combined practices on the outcomes of unruptured cerebral aneurysm coiling remains an issue of debate. The authors investigated the association of combined open and endovascular expertise with the outcomes of unruptured cerebral aneurysm coiling.

METHODS

The authors performed a cohort study of 100% of Medicare fee-for-service claims data for elderly patients who underwent endovascular coiling for unruptured cerebral aneurysms between 2007 and 2012. To control for confounding, the authors used propensity score conditioning, with mixed effects to account for clustering at the hospital referral region level.

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 11,716 patients who underwent endovascular coiling for unruptured cerebral aneurysms and met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 1186 (10.1%) underwent treatment performed by hybrid neurosurgeons, and 10,530 (89.9%) by proceduralists who performed only endovascular coiling. Multivariable regression analysis with propensity score adjustment demonstrated a lack of association of combined practice with 1-year postoperative mortality (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.58–1.23), discharge to rehabilitation (OR 1.0; 95% CI 0.66–1.51), 30-day readmission rate (OR 1.07; 95% CI 0.83–1.38), and length of stay (adjusted difference, 0.41; 95% CI −0.26 to 1.09). Higher procedural volume was independently associated with improved outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In a cohort of Medicare patients, the authors did not demonstrate a difference in mortality, discharge to rehabilitation, readmission rate, and LOS between hybrid neurosurgeons and proceduralists performing only endovascular coiling.
MicroRNA and gene expression changes in unruptured human cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Bekelis Kimon , Kerley-Hamilton Joanna S. , Teegarden Amy , Tomlinson Craig R. , Kuintzle Rachael , Simmons Nathan , Singer Robert J. , Roberts David W. , Kellis Manolis , Hendrix David A.
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

The molecular mechanisms behind cerebral aneurysm formation and rupture remain poorly understood. In the past decade, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be key regulators in a host of biological processes. They are noncoding RNA molecules, approximately 21 nucleotides long, that posttranscriptionally inhibit mRNAs by attenuating protein translation and promoting mRNA degradation. The miRNA and mRNA interactions and expression levels in cerebral aneurysm tissue from human subjects were profiled.

METHODS

A prospective case-control study was performed on human subjects to characterize the differential expression of mRNA and miRNA in unruptured cerebral aneurysms in comparison with control tissue (healthy superficial temporal arteries [STA]). Ion Torrent was used for deep RNA sequencing. Affymetrix miRNA microarrays were used to analyze miRNA expression, whereas NanoString nCounter technology was used for validation of the identified targets.

RESULTS

Overall, 7 unruptured cerebral aneurysm and 10 STA specimens were collected. Several differentially expressed genes were identified in aneurysm tissue, with MMP-13 (fold change 7.21) and various collagen genes (COL1A1, COL5A1, COL5A2) being among the most upregulated. In addition, multiple miRNAs were significantly differentially expressed, with miR-21 (fold change 16.97) being the most upregulated, and miR-143–5p (fold change −11.14) being the most downregulated. From these, miR-21, miR-143, and miR-145 had several significantly anticorrelated target genes in the cohort that are associated with smooth muscle cell function, extracellular matrix remodeling, inflammation signaling, and lipid accumulation. All these processes are crucial to the pathophysiology of cerebral aneurysms.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis identified differentially expressed genes and miRNAs in unruptured human cerebral aneurysms, suggesting the possibility of a role for miRNAs in aneurysm formation. Further investigation for their importance as therapeutic targets is needed.
Comparison of diffusion tensor imaging and 11C-methionine positron emission tomography for reliable prediction of tumor cell density in gliomas
Authors: Kinoshita Manabu , Arita Hideyuki , Okita Yoshiko , Kagawa Naoki , Kishima Haruhiko , Hashimoto Naoya , Tanaka Hisashi , Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Shimosegawa Eku , Hatazawa Jun , Fujimoto Yasunori , Yoshimine Toshiki
Published: February 2016

OBJECTIVE

Diffusion MRI is attracting increasing interest for tissue characterization of gliomas, especially after the introduction of antiangiogenic therapy to treat malignant gliomas. The goal of the current study is to elucidate the actual magnitude of the correlation between diffusion MRI and cell density within the tissue. The obtained results were further extended and compared with metabolic imaging with 11C-methionine (MET) PET.

METHODS

Ninety-eight tissue samples from 37 patients were stereotactically obtained via an intraoperative neuronavigation system. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and MET PET were performed as routine presurgical imaging studies for these patients. DTI was converted into fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps, and MET PET images were registered to Gd-administered T1-weighted images that were used for navigation. Metrics of FA, ADC, and tumor-to-normal tissue ratio of MET PET along with relative values of FA (rFA) and ADC (rADC) compared with normal-appearing white matter were correlated with cell density of the stereotactically obtained tissues.

RESULTS

rADC was significantly lower in lesions obtained from Gd-enhancing lesions than from nonenhancing lesions. Although rADC showed a moderate but statistically significant negative correlation with cell density (p = 0.010), MET PET showed a superb positive correlation with cell density (p < 0.0001). On the other hand, rFA showed little correlation with cell density.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented data validated the use of rADC for estimating the treatment response of gliomas but also caution against overestimating its limited accuracy compared with MET PET.