bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decreased Knee Joint Loading Associated With Early Knee Osteoarthritis After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury
Authors: Wellsandt Elizabeth , Gardinier Emily S. , Manal Kurt , Axe Michael J. , Buchanan Thomas S. , Snyder-Mackler Lynn
Published: October 2015

Background:

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury predisposes individuals to early-onset knee joint osteoarthritis (OA). Abnormal joint loading is apparent after ACL injury and reconstruction. The relationship between altered joint biomechanics and the development of knee OA is unknown.

Hypothesis:

Altered knee joint kinetics and medial compartment contact forces initially after injury and reconstruction are associated with radiographic knee OA 5 years after reconstruction.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Individuals with acute, unilateral ACL injury completed gait analysis before (baseline) and after (posttraining) preoperative rehabilitation and at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after reconstruction. Surface electromyographic and knee biomechanical data served as inputs to an electromyographically driven musculoskeletal model to estimate knee joint contact forces. Patients completed radiographic testing 5 years after reconstruction. Differences in knee joint kinetics and contact forces were compared between patients with and those without radiographic knee OA.

Results:

Patients with OA walked with greater frontal plane interlimb differences than those without OA (nonOA) at baseline (peak knee adduction moment difference: 0.00 ± 0.08 N·m/kg·m [nonOA] vs −0.15 ± 0.09 N·m/kg·m [OA], P = .014; peak knee adduction moment impulse difference: −0.001 ± 0.032 N·m·s/kg·m [nonOA] vs −0.048 ± 0.031 N·m·s/kg·m [OA], P = .042). The involved limb knee adduction moment impulse of the group with osteoarthritis was also lower than that of the group without osteoarthritis at baseline (0.087 ± 0.023 N·m·s/kg·m [nonOA] vs 0.049 ± 0.018 N·m·s/kg·m [OA], P = .023). Significant group differences were absent at posttraining but reemerged 6 months after reconstruction (peak knee adduction moment difference: 0.02 ± 0.04 N·m/kg·m [nonOA] vs −0.06 ± 0.11 N·m/kg·m [OA], P = .043). In addition, the OA group walked with lower peak medial compartment contact forces of the involved limb than did the group without OA at 6 months (2.89 ± 0.52 body weight [nonOA] vs 2.10 ± 0.69 body weight [OA], P = .036).

Conclusion:

Patients who had radiographic knee OA 5 years after ACL reconstruction walked with lower knee adduction moments and medial compartment joint contact forces than did those patients without OA early after injury and reconstruction.
Experimental and numerical treatment of delamination in laminated glass plate structures
Authors: Dural Ebru
Published: October 2015

This paper aims to investigate the delamination issues of laminated glass plates and the effect of boundary conditions on the delamination of laminated glass plates. Delamination of laminated glass which may be defined as reduction or total loss in the perfect bond between the glass sheets and the PVB interlayer is one of the most important failure modes. Due to delamination, the load-carrying capacity and structural stiffness of laminated glass unit can change significantly. The author conducted experimental and numerical studies about the delamination of laminated glass plate problem based on the results of digital image processing.
Regarding Mr. Wu, a dragon and conversations in traffic: Social acceleration, deceleration and re-acceleration in Shanghai
Authors: Cockain Alex
Published: October 2015

Based upon ethnographic data gathered in Shanghai, this paper explores residents’ experiences of, and responses to, living within an environment, which displays features of what Rosa terms ‘social acceleration’. After exploring anxieties induced in residents who feel sedentary – relative to others – and their attempts to cope with this, this paper focuses upon how residents’ attitudes towards social acceleration become refracted in imaginative forms, especially texts currently circulating within Shanghai, which insinuate ostensibly supernatural characters into certain prominent locations in the city. As these texts critique ‘progress’ and register residents’ anxieties regarding social acceleration so they smooth over disquiet and unease thereby encouraging not only discourses of development but also the patterns, pace and tempo of social acceleration. The final part of this paper explores the costs of ‘slowdown’, arguing these are sufficient to compel residents not only to re-engage with, and therefore perpetuate, socially accelerating forms but perhaps even to intensify them, hence the deployment of the term ‘re-acceleration’ in the title of this paper.
In My Best Interest
Authors: Mayer Patricia A. , Esplin Bryn , Burant Christopher J. , Wilson Brigid M. , Krall MaryAnn Lamont , Daly Barbara J. , Gatliff Jason
Published: October 2015

Background:

Advance directives (ADs) have traditionally been viewed as clear instructions for implementing patient wishes at times of compromised decision-making capacity (DMC). However, whether individuals prefer ADs to be strictly followed or to serve as general guidelines has not been studied. The Veterans Administration’s Advance Directive Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care and Living Will (VA AD) provides patients the opportunity to indicate specific treatment preferences and to indicate how strictly the directive is to be followed.

Objective:

To describe preferences for life-sustaining treatments (LSTs) in various illness conditions as well as instructions for the use of VA ADs.

Design/Setting:

A descriptive study was performed collecting data from all ADs entered into the medical record at 1 VA Medical Center between January and June 2014.

Measurements:

Responses to VA AD with emphasis on health care agents (HCAs) and LW responses.

Results:

Veterans were more likely to reject LST when death was imminent (74.6%), when in a coma (71.1%), if they had brain damage (70.6%), or were ventilator dependent (70.4%). A majority (67.4%) of veterans preferred the document to be followed generally rather than strictly. Veterans were more likely to want VA ADs to serve as a general guide when a spouse was named HCA.

Conclusion:

Most of the sampled veterans rejected LST except under conditions of permanent disability. A majority intend VA ADs to serve as general guidelines rather than strict, binding instructions. These findings have significant implications for surrogate decision making and the use of ADs more generally.
Advance Directives and Care Received by Older Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Manu Erika R. , Mody Lona , McNamara Sara E. , Vitale Caroline A.
Published: October 2015

Background:

Research shows variable success as to whether care provided aligns with individual patient preferences as reflected in their advance directives (AD).

Objective:

We aimed to study AD status and subsequent care received in older nursing home (NH) residents deemed at risk for infections and care transitions: those with a urinary catheter (UC), feeding tube (FT), or both.

Design/participants/measurements:

A subgroup analysis of a prospective cohort of 90 residents with a UC and/or FT from 15 NHs in southeast Michigan. Outcomes assessed at enrollment and at 30-day intervals were hospitalizations and antibiotic use. The ADs were divided as follows: (1) comfort oriented: comfort measures only, no hospital transfer; (2) palliative oriented: comfort focused, allowing hospital transfer (except intensive care unit), antibiotic use, but no cardiopulmonary resuscitation; (3) usual care: full code, no limitations to care. We calculated incidences for these outcomes.

Results:

Seventy-eight (87%) residents had ADs: 18 (23%) comfort oriented, 32 (41%) palliative oriented, and 28 (36%) usual care. The groups did not differ regarding demographics, comorbidity, function, device presence, or time in study. Using the usual care group as comparison, the comfort-oriented group was hospitalized at a similar rate (Incidence rate [IR] = 15.6/1000 follow-up days vs IR = 8.8/1000 follow-up days, Incident rate ratio [IRR] 0.6 [95% confidence interval, CI, 0.3 -1.1], P value .09) but received fewer antibiotics (IR = 18.9/1000 follow-up days vs IR = 7.5/1000 follow-up days, IRR 0.4 [95% CI, 0.2-0.8], P value .005).

Conclusion:

Nursing home residents with comfort-oriented ADs were hospitalized at a rate similar to those with usual-care ADs but received fewer antibiotics, although the small sample size of this analysis suggests these findings deserve further study.
News Content About Mass Shootings and Attitudes Toward Mental Illness
Authors: Wilson Laura C. , Ballman Alesha D. , Buczek Theresa J.
Published: October 2015

We examined the impact of media messages about mass shootings on participants’ attitudes toward people with mental illness. In a randomized experiment, 293 college students were randomly assigned to read one of five news articles (i.e., one control article, four articles about mass shootings) and answer questions about attitudes toward people with mental illness. Groups significantly differed on attitudes related to perceived dangerousness/social distance and perceived discrimination/belief in recovery, but not insurance/treatment beliefs. The majority of news about mass shootings, even if the article does not mention mental illness or contains expert information, may contribute to negative attitudes.
Effects of Shared Active Surface Technology on the Communication and Speech of Two Preschool Children With Disabilities
Authors: Travers Jason C. , Fefer Sarah A.
Published: October 2015

Shared active surface (SAS) technology can be described as a supersized tablet computer for multiple simultaneous users. SAS technology has the potential to resolve issues historically associated with learning via single-user computer technology. This study reports findings of a SAS on the social communication and nonsocial speech of two preschool children with disabilities. An alternating treatments design was used to compare differences in these behaviors during a SAS technology–based coloring activity and analog coloring activity. Results indicated distinct differences in social communication and nonsocial speech across participants. Implications of the findings are discussed, and directions for potential research with this technology are provided.
Abnormal adaptation over time of motor network recruitment in multiple sclerosis patients with fatigue
Authors: Rocca Maria A , Meani Alessandro , Riccitelli Gianna C , Colombo Bruno , Rodegher Mariaemma , Falini Andrea , Comi Giancarlo , Filippi Massimo
Published: October 2015

Objectives:

Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during a motor task, we investigated the functional correlates of central fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS), and adaptation of motor network recruitment during a prolonged effort.

Methods:

Motor fMRI was obtained from 79 MS patients (50 fatigued (F), 29 non-fatigued (nF)) and 26 matched healthy controls (HC). Cognitive and physical fatigue were rated using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS).

Results:

Compared to HC and nF patients, F-MS patients experienced reduced activations of the left middle temporal gyrus, left supplementary motor area (SMA), bilateral superior frontal gyrus, left postcentral gyrus and basal ganglia regions. They also showed increased activation of the right middle frontal gyrus (MFG). Time-modulation analysis showed a reduced activity of the SMA and right precentral gyrus, and increased activity of the basal ganglia in HC. Such a trend was impaired in F-MS patients. In MS patients, increased MFG activity was related to MFIS scores. Physical MFIS score was related to a reduced recruitment of the right thalamus and SMA.

Conclusions:

Abnormalities and impaired timing of activation between different areas of the motor and executive networks occur in F-MS patients. The dysfunction of critical cortical areas contributes to the occurrence of central fatigue.
Diagnosis disclosure in dementia: Understanding the experiences of clinicians and patients who have recently given or received a diagnosis
Authors: Milby Elinor , Murphy Gemma , Winthrop Allan
Published: October 2015

Diagnosis disclosure in dementia is a complex area that results in positive and negative outcomes for both clinicians and patients. Eight clinicians and seven patients were interviewed about their recent experience of either giving or receiving a diagnosis of dementia. Interview transcripts were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. The analysis revealed two higher order themes: Hiding from the Truth and The Social Environment: Help or Hindrance? Both clinicians and patients experience avoidance in relation to the diagnosis. The results support a psychosocial model of dementia and highlight the need for flexible follow up interventions that both recognise patients’ use of avoidance and denial as coping strategies and facilitate social support. The social environment can also assist and hamper clinicians’ efforts to help their patients. Future research is needed to elucidate optimal conditions for facilitating patients’ uptake of positive coping strategies.
Analysis of suitability of elastomeric woven tape for strain sensor application and measurement of elbow angle
Authors: Sonica K , Naveen VS , Thilagavathi G
Published: October 2015

Textile-based body worn sensors are preferred due to its comfortability for continuous monitoring of the body vital signs and kinematics. This research discusses the development and characterization of elastomeric tape for strain sensor application and is used for the measurement of elbow angle. The stress strain properties of commercially available elastomeric tapes have been analyzed for the selection of suitable specifications of elastomeric tape. The actual sensor has been developed with the help of narrow width tape loom by introducing the silver-coated nylon yarn in the middle of the tape structure. The effect of linear density of conductive yarn and number and strands of conductive threads used on sensitivity of the sensor was studied. The repeatability of the developed sensor was characterized by cyclic testing using Zwick tensile tester.

Based on the results, polyester yarns were used as base threads along with rubber threads for the sensor development. It was found that sensor developed using finer yarn with six conductive threads has higher sensitivity. The developed sensor was integrated on to elbow sleeve and elbow angle measurement was done. The results of the developed tape sensor have been compared with the hospital goniometer for 10 male subjects. The results showed that the developed tape sensor is suitable for measuring the elbow angles up to 150°.
Presence of Mind
Authors: Irwin Michèle , Miller John P.
Published: October 2015

This article presents the results of a study into the effects of meditation practice on the lives of professional educators, specifically educators who either began or continued such practice during course work led by Professor Miller at the University of Toronto. The study incorporates semistructured interviews with 12 participants to track their current engagement with meditative practice. Respondents attest to the power of meditation to aid in reducing stress, increasing awareness of oneself and others, and promoting healthier interpersonal communication. These educator-practitioners also assert their belief in the power of regular meditation to help mitigate and improve their relationships with students, colleagues, and family members as well as to facilitate teacher presence.
Educating the Wandering Mind
Authors: Ergas Oren
Published: October 2015

Educational theory and practice have been focusing on educating students as to “how to think.” Yet, contemporary neuroscience and psychological research reveal that many of our waking hours are spent in a state of “mind-wandering” characterized by uncontrolled thoughts that have little to do with our concrete present engagements. Research shows that mind-wandering has mostly negative effects on our well-being and performance. This paper explores the educational implications of this curricular blind spot for mind-wandering and implies that a student's mind internally produces content that presumably overrides the curriculum offered in the classroom. Based on Dewey's philosophy of education and cognitive theory, mind-wandering is depicted here as a two-layered habit that may entrench us in our past and possibly create internal resistance to educational change. Nested within a contemporary discourse of mindfulness practice, the article explores the pedagogical mechanisms of mindfulness as ways of rectifying both layers of this human predicament.
Effects of Exercise on Falls, Balance, and Gait Ability in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Shen Xia , Wong-Yu Irene S. K. , Mak Margaret K. Y.
Published: October 2015

Postural instability and falls are complex and disabling features of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and respond poorly to anti-Parkinsonian medication. There is an imperative need to evaluate the effectiveness of exercise interventions in enhancing postural stability and decreasing falls in the PD population. The objectives of our study were to determine the effects of exercise training on the enhancement of balance and gait ability and reduction in falls for people with PD and to investigate potential factors contributing to the training effects on balance and gait ability of people with PD. We included 25 randomized control trials of a moderate methodological quality in our meta-analysis. The trials examined the effects of exercise training on balance and gait ability and falls against no intervention and placebo intervention. The results showed positive effects of exercise intervention on enhancing balance and gait performance (Hedges’ g = 0.303 over the short-term in 24 studies and 0.419 over the long-term in 12 studies; P < .05) and reducing the fall rate (rate ratio = 0.485 over the short-term in 4 studies and 0.413 over the long-term in 5 studies; P < .05). The longest follow-up duration was 12 months. There was no evidence that training decreased the number of fallers over the short- or long-term ( P > .05). The results of our metaregression and subgroup analysis showed that facility-based training produced greater training effects on improving PD participants’ balance and gait ability ( P < .05). The findings support the application of exercise training to improve balance and gait ability and prevent falls in people with PD.
Dual flow diversion stents for aneurysm treatment in a partial unfused basilar artery
Authors: Gontu Vamsi , Bhogal Pervinder , Brouwer Patricius A
Published: October 2015

Unfused basilar arteries, frequently but erroneously referred to as ‘fenestrations’, are not uncommonly associated with aneurysms. The difficulty in treating these aneurysms lie in the fact that they are often wide necked and frequently incorporate both channels of the unfused segment, with varying calibres of the channels, necessitating technically challenging treatment strategies. It is important to preserve both channels because of the potential presence of perforating arteries originating from these segments. There are numerous case reports of such aneurysms being treated by coils alone, coiling with balloon assistance and stent-assisted coiling in configurations such as ‘X’, ‘double barrel’ or waffle cone. We present an exemplary case, in which an aneurysm on a partial unfused basilar segment was treated with parallel flow diverters with an excellent result on follow-up imaging.
Manual aspiration thrombectomy using the Penumbra catheter in patients with acute M1 occlusion: A single-center study
Authors: Kim Yong Seek , Kwak Hyo Sung , Chung Gyung Ho , Hwang Seung Bae
Published: October 2015

Purpose

The efficacy and safety of aspiration thrombectomy using Penumbra in acute occlusion of intracranial artery have been proved in many previous studies. Our study aimed to retrospectively assess the efficacy and safety of a manual aspiration thrombectomy using Penumbra in patients with M1 occlusion.

Materials and methods

We conducted a retrospective review of 70 patients who underwent manual aspiration thrombectomy using Penumbra catheters for treatment of M1 occlusion between January 2012 and December 2014. We evaluated immediate angiographic results and clinical outcomes through review of patient electronic medical records.

Results

Male was the dominant sex in this study (M:F = 38:32) and median age was 72 (age range, 36–91). The rate of successful recanalization (TICI grade ≥2 b) was 91.4% (64/70). The successful recanalization rate by single Penumbra was 82.9% (58/70). Six patients were treated in combination with Solitaire stent. Median NIHSS score was 11 (range, 4–20) at admission and was 3 (range 0–23) at discharge. Favorable clinical outcomes (mRS score at three months ≤2) were seen in 42 patients (60%). Two patients were observed to have subarachnoid hemorrhage after the procedure. Another two patients died related to massive symptomatic hemorrhage, brain edema and herniation in the hospital.

Conclusion

Manual aspiration thrombectomy appears to be safe and is capable of achieving a high rate of successful recanalization and favorable clinical outcomes in patients with M1 occlusion.
A comparison of open and endovascular treatment strategies for the management of splenic artery aneurysms
Authors: Sticco Andrew , Aggarwal Alok , Shapiro Michael , Pratt Abimbola , Rissuci Donald , D’Ayala Marcus
Published: October 2015

Splenic artery aneurysms are rare with an incidence of less than 0.8%. Evidence to support an endovascular management strategy over open surgical repair for SAA is limited. We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to compare open to endovascular SAA repair by assessing postoperative outcomes, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was done to determine predictors of postoperative complications. There were 2316 admissions with a diagnosis code for SAA [347 (14.9%) endovascular repair and 112 (4.8%) open surgery]. There was a statistically significant lower rate of cardiac (2.3% vs 6.9%, P = 0.05) and pulmonary (8.9% vs 16.1%, P = 0.05) complications for the endovascular repair group. The risk of surgical site infection was also lower (0.6% vs 5.1%, P = 0.01) in the endovascular group. Median in-hospital LOS was greater for open repairs (6 vs. 4 days, P = 0.01). There were no statistically significant differences across procedures for renal complications (8.9%, P = 0.88) or in-hospital mortality (3%, P = 0.99). Regression analysis established procedure type to be independent predictor of postoperative complications. Endovascular repair of SAA is therefore associated with a lower complication rate and less resource utilization but no difference in mortality peri-operatively. This may justify an endovascular first treatment strategy in the management of SAA.
Macropsychological Factors Predict Regional Economic Resilience During a Major Economic Crisis
Authors: Obschonka Martin , Stuetzer Michael , Audretsch David B. , Rentfrow Peter J. , Potter Jeff , Gosling Samuel D.
Published: October 2015

Do macropsychological factors predict “hard” economic outcomes like regional economic resilience? Prior approaches to understanding economic resilience have focused on regional economic infrastructure. In contrast, we draw on research highlighting the key role played by psychological factors in economic behaviors. Using large psychological data sets from the United States ( n = 935,858) and Great Britain ( n = 417,217), we characterize region-level psychological correlates of economic resilience. Specifically, we examine links between regions’ levels of psychological traits and their degree of economic slowdown (indexed by changes in entrepreneurial vitality) in the wake of the Great Recession of 2008–2009. In both countries, more emotionally stable regions and regions with a more prevalent entrepreneurial personality makeup showed a significantly lower economic slowdown. This effect was robust when accounting for regional differences in economic infrastructure. Cause cannot be inferred from these correlational findings, but the results nonetheless point to macropsychological factors as potentially protective factors against macroeconomic shocks.
Delivering Feedback: Supervisors’ Source Credibility and Communication Competence
Authors: Kingsley Westerman Catherine Y. , Reno Katie M. , Heuett Kyle B.
Published: October 2015

This study investigated how perceptions of supervisor communication competence and source credibility were affected by the valence and synchronicity of a feedback message and the channel used to deliver the feedback message. Results indicated that those receiving feedback preferred phone calls rather than text messages as a channel for managers to deliver feedback. Also, supervisors delivering positive feedback were identified as more positive in general than those delivering negative feedback. Further results and implications are discussed.
Telomere shortening in enterocytes of patients with uncontrolled acute intestinal graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Hummel Sebastian , Ventura Ferreira Mónica S. , Heudobler Daniel , Huber Elisabeth , Fahrenkamp Dirk , Gremse Felix , Schmid Karin , Müller-Newen Gerhard , Ziegler Patrick , Jost Edgar , Blasco Maria A. , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Holler Ernst , Beier Fabian
Published: October 2015

Key Points

Enterocytes of patients with aGVHD undergo dramatic telomere shortening (∼200 bp/wk). Telomere loss with subsequent replicative exhaustion might provide a mechanism for refractory gut GVHD.
KIR2DL5B genotype predicts outcomes in CML patients treated with response-directed sequential imatinib/nilotinib strategy
Authors: Yeung David T. , Tang Carine , Vidovic Ljiljana , White Deborah L. , Branford Susan , Hughes Timothy P. , Yong Agnes S.
Published: October 2015

Key Points

KIR2DL5B is associated with poor molecular response and transformation-free survival in CML patients enrolled to the TIDEL-II study. KIR genotyping would select out high risk CML patients at baseline and allow better targeting of novel interventions.
Fludarabine, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab treatment achieves long-term disease-free survival in IGHV-mutated chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Thompson Philip A. , Tam Constantine S. , O’Brien Susan M. , Wierda William G. , Stingo Francesco , Plunkett William , Smith Susan C. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Freireich Emil J. , Keating Michael J.
Published: October 2015

Key Points

FCR-treated chronic lymphocytic leukemia patients with mutated IGHV gene achieve long-term PFS, with a plateau on the PFS curve. MRD-negativity posttreatment is highly predictive of long-term PFS, particularly in patients with mutated IGHV gene.
Suicides during pregnancy and 1 year postpartum in Sweden, 1980–2007
Authors: Esscher Annika , Essén Birgitta , Innala Eva , Papadopoulos Fotios C. , Skalkidou Alkistis , Sundström-Poromaa Inger , Högberg Ulf
Published: October 2015

Background

Although the incidence of suicide among women who have given birth during the past 12 months is lower than that of women who have not given birth, suicide remains one of the most common causes of death during the year following delivery in high-income countries, such as Sweden.

Aims

To characterise women who died by suicide during pregnancy and postpartum from a maternal care perspective.

Method

We traced deaths (n= 103) through linkage of the Swedish Cause of Death Register with the Medical Birth and National Patient Registers. We analysed register data and obstetric medical records.

Results

The maternal suicide ratio was 3.7 per 100 000 live births for the period 1980–2007, with small magnitude variation over time. The suicide ratio was higher in women born in low-income countries (odds ratio 3.1 (95% CI 1.3–7.7)). Violent suicide methods were common, especially during the first 6 months postpartum. In all, 77 women had received psychiatric care at some point, but 26 women had no documented psychiatric care. Antenatal documentation of psychiatric history was inconsistent. At postpartum discharge, only 20 women had a plan for psychiatric follow-up.

Conclusions

Suicide prevention calls for increased clinical awareness and cross-disciplinary maternal care approaches to identify and support women at risk.
On the convergence rates of some adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithms
Authors: Atchadé Yves , Wang Yizao
Published: October 2015

In this paper we study the mixing time of certain adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms. Under some regularity conditions, we show that the convergence rate of importance resampling MCMC algorithms, measured in terms of the total variation distance, is O(n-1). By means of an example, we establish that, in general, this algorithm does not converge at a faster rate. We also study the interacting tempering algorithm, a simplified version of the equi-energy sampler, and establish that its mixing time is of order O(n-1/2).
Volume and duration of losses in finite buffer fluid queues
Authors: Guillemin Fabrice , Sericola Bruno
Published: October 2015

We study congestion periods in a finite fluid buffer when the net input rate depends upon a recurrent Markov process; congestion occurs when the buffer content is equal to the buffer capacity. Similarly to O'Reilly and Palmowski (2013), we consider the duration of congestion periods as well as the associated volume of lost information. While these quantities are characterized by their Laplace transforms in that paper, we presently derive their distributions in a typical stationary busy period of the buffer. Our goal is to compute the exact expression of the loss probability in the system, which is usually approximated by the probability that the occupancy of the infinite buffer is greater than the buffer capacity under consideration. Moreover, by using general results of the theory of Markovian arrival processes, we show that the duration of congestion and the volume of lost information have phase-type distributions.
ClearSee: a rapid optical clearing reagent for whole-plant fluorescence imaging
Authors: Kurihara Daisuke , Mizuta Yoko , Sato Yoshikatsu , Higashiyama Tetsuya
Published: October 2015

Imaging techniques for visualizing and analyzing precise morphology and gene expression patterns are essential for understanding biological processes during development in all organisms. With the aid of chemical screening, we developed a clearing method using chemical solutions, termed ClearSee, for deep imaging of morphology and gene expression in plant tissues. ClearSee rapidly diminishes chlorophyll autofluorescence while maintaining fluorescent protein stability. By adjusting the refractive index mismatch, whole-organ and plant imaging can be performed both by confocal and two-photon excitation microscopy in ClearSee-treated samples. Moreover, ClearSee is applicable to multicolor imaging of fluorescent proteins to allow structural analysis of multiple gene expression. Given that ClearSee is compatible with staining by chemical dyes, the technique is useful for deep imaging in conjunction with genetic markers and for plant species not amenable to transgenic approaches. This method is useful for whole imaging for intact morphology and will help to accelerate the discovery of new phenomena in plant biological research.
Acute cold and exercise training upregulate similar aspects of fatty acid transport and catabolism in house sparrows, Passer domesticus
Authors: Zhang Yufeng , Carter Travis , Eyster Kathleen , Swanson David L.
Published: October 2015

Summit (Msum=maximum thermoregulatory metabolic rate) and maximum (MMR=maximum exercise metabolic rate) metabolic rates both increase in response to acute cold or exercise training in birds. Because lipids are the main fuel supporting both thermogenesis and exercise in birds, adjustments to lipid transport and catabolic capacities may support elevated energy demands from cold and exercise training. To examine a potential mechanistic role for lipid transport and catabolism in organismal cross-training effects (exercise effects on both exercise and thermogenesis, and vice versa), we measured enzyme activities and mRNA and protein expression in pectoralis muscle for several key steps of lipid transport and catabolism pathways in house sparrows, Passer domesticus, during acute exercise and cold training. Both training protocols elevated pectoralis protein levels of fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36), cytosolic fatty acid binding protein, and citrate synthase (CS) activity. However, mRNA expression of FAT/CD36 and both mRNA and protein expression of plasma membrane fatty acid binding protein did not change for either training group. CS activities in supracoracoideus, leg and heart; and carnitine palmitoyl transferase (CPT) and β-hydroxyacyl CoA-dehydrogenase activities in all muscles did not vary significantly with either training protocol. Both Msum and MMR were significantly positively correlated with CPT and CS activities. These data suggest that upregulation of trans-sarcolemmal and intramyocyte lipid transport capacities and cellular metabolic intensities, along with previously documented increases in body and pectoralis muscle masses and pectoralis myostatin (a muscle growth inhibitor) levels, are common mechanisms underlying the training effects of both exercise and shivering in birds.
A Hybrid Strategy for the Preparation of 13C-labeled High-mannose-type Oligosaccharides with Terminal Glucosylation for NMR Study
Authors: Zhu Tong , Yamaguchi Takumi , Satoh Tadashi , Kato Koichi
Published: October 2015

Stable isotopic labeling dramatically facilitates NMR studies of oligosaccharides. We previously established a method for overexpressing homogeneous high-mannose-type oligosaccharides with metabolic 13C labeling using genetically engineered yeast cells. To extend the applicability of this methodology, we combined it with chemoenzymatic synthesis using a specific glucosyl transferase. Our hybrid approach has enabled the production of a uniformly and selectively 13C-labeled dodecasaccharide with terminal glucosylation, a signal recognized by molecular chaperones, providing useful NMR tools for detailed conformational analyses.
Origin of the Hysteresis in I–V Curves for Planar Structure Perovskite Solar Cells Rationalized with a Surface Boundary-induced Capacitance Model
Authors: Cojocaru Ludmila , Uchida Satoshi , Jayaweera Piyankarage V V , Kaneko Shoji , Nakazaki Jotaro , Kubo Takaya , Segawa Hiroshi
Published: October 2015

For efficient hybrid solar cells based on organometal halide perovskites, the real origin of the I–V hysteresis became a big issue and has been discussed widely. In this study, simulated I–V curves of different equivalent circuit models were validated with experimental I–V curves of a planar perovskite solar cell with the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.0% and 8.8% on reverse scan (from open circuit to short circuit) and forward scan (from short circuit to open circuit), respectively. We found that an equivalent circuit model with a series of double diodes, capacitors, shunt resistances, and single series resistance produces simulated I–V curves with large hysteresis matching with the experimentally observed curves. The electrical capacitances generated by defects due to the lattice mismatch at the TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3 and CH3NH3PbI3/spiro-OMeTAD interface are truly responsible for the hysteresis in perovskite solar cells.
Low Frequency Noise from Wind Turbines: Do the Danish Regulations Have Any Impact? An Analysis of Noise Measurements
Authors: Søndergaard Bo
Published: October 2015

Previous analyses of low frequency noise from wind turbines and the development with wind turbine size have been interpreted differently [3], [4], [5], [6] and [7]. Based on an improved statistical basis with more than 200 measurement reports, these interpretations are tested again and conclusions that are more robust are achieved. Furthermore, the impact of the Danish regulation for low frequency noise is investigated. The development of low frequency noise with wind speed is indicated for different types of wind turbines.
AGA: Interactive pipeline for reproducible gene expression and DNA methylation data analyses
Authors: Considine Michael , Parker Hilary , Wei Yingying , Xia Xaio , Cope Leslie , Ochs Michael , Fertig Elana
Published: October 2015

Automated Genomics Analysis (AGA) is an interactive program to analyze high-throughput genomic data sets on a variety of platforms. An easy to use, point and click, guided pipeline is implemented to combine, define, and compare datasets, and customize their outputs. In contrast to other automated programs, AGA enables flexible selection of sample groups for comparison from complex sample annotations. Batch correction techniques are also included to further enable the combination of datasets from diverse studies in this comparison. AGA also allows users to save plots, tables and data, and log files containing key portions of the R script run for reproducible analyses. The link between the interface and R supports collaborative research, enabling advanced R users to extend preliminary analyses generated from bioinformatics novices.
Oxygen changes drive non-uniform scaling in Drosophila melanogaster embryogenesis
Authors: Kuntz Steven G. , Eisen Michael B.
Published: October 2015

We previously demonstrated that, while changes in temperature produce dramatic shifts in the time elapsed duringDrosophila melanogasterembryogenesis, the relative timing of events within embryogenesis does not change. However, it was unclear if this uniform scaling is an intrinsic property of developing embryos, or if it is specific to thermal fluctuations. To investigate this, here we characterize the embryonic response to changes in oxygen concentration, which also impact developmental rate, using time-lapse imaging, and find it fundamentally different from the temperature response. Most notably, changes in oxygen levels drive developmental heterochrony, with the timing of several morphological processes showing distinct scaling behaviors. Gut formation is severely slowed by decreases in oxygen, while head involution and syncytial development are less impacted than the rest of development, and the order of several developmental landmarks is inverted at different oxygen levels. These data reveal that the uniform scaling seen with changes in temperature is not a trivial consequence of adjusting developmental rate. The developmental rate changes produced by changing oxygen concentrations dwarf those induced by temperature, and greatly impact survival. While extreme temperatures increase early embryo mortality, mild hypoxia increases arrest and death during mid-embryogenesis and mild hyperoxia increases survival over normoxia.
Evolution models of quasiattractors of anthropometric parameters of pupils of Ugra and Bashkortostan republic
Authors: Романчук  , Romanchuk A. , Шакирова  , Shakirova L. , Черников  , Chernikov N. , Берестин  , Berestin D. , Козлов  , Kozlov A.
Published: October 2015

The evolution of biological systems on the example of changes in anthropometric indicators of the three age groups of pupils Ugra and Bashkortostan Republic from the perspective of theory of chaos and self-organization is considered. The kinematic parameters of complex systems (systems of third type) based on the motion simulation system of the state vector x(t) in the phase space of state were calculated. A special mathematical apparatus for calculation of the centers of quasi-attractors (areas of phase space in which x(t) changes continuously) and the rate of evolution was used. The authors demonstrated the calculations of the quasi-attractors’ volumes, the coordinates of their centers, as well as the velocity of these centers and the rate of evolution of biological systems in the phase space of states. A comparative analysis of the kinematic characteristics of students of Ugra and Bashkortostan Republic showed significant differences in the dynamics of anthropometric parameters.
Entropy approach in the estimation of parameters of cardio schoolboys at latitudinal
Authors: Ястребов  , Yastrebov A. , Горбунов  , Gorbunov D. , Эльман  , Elman Kseniya , Гимадиев  , Gimadiev B.
Published: October 2015

Options cardio demonstrate the instability of the distribution function f (x) for different time intervals of measurements Δt. We postulate that such systems can not be attributed to the traditional chaotic systems, as for them it is impossible to calculate the autocorrelation function, Lyapunov exponent, no mixing and performance properties of continuous state vector x (t) demonstrates the chaotic motion in the form dx / dt ≠ 0. Since the initial state x (t0) can not be repeated arbitrarily for such systems, there is the uncertainty of the 1st and the 2nd type. Entropy approach is proposed for describing the assessment of the behavior of cardio when changing climatic zones. Compares the value of the results of quasi-attractors samples cardio area and the values of the Shannon entropy. The examples of such a situation for the parameters of cardio groups of children at Ugra latitudinal displacements. It demonstrated that the entropy approach has a low diagnostic value in the evaluation of samples of cardio.
Cognitive function parameters of Ugra students
Authors: Стрельцова  , Streltsova T. , Поскина  , Poskina T. , Филатов  , Filatov M. , Сидоренко  , Sidorenko D.
Published: October 2015

The development of cognitive functions of indigenous and alien population is determined with the differences in reaction of the functional systems of the human body to chaotic dynamics parameters of meteo factors. The sensorimotor reactions of psycho-physiological characteristics of indigenous peoples are illustrated by the example of memory parameters among Khanty pupils. The models of mnemonic functions and their features are described in the article. The paper is concerned with the specificity of the model parameters and models in the form of quasi-attractors.
Entropic approach in assessment of seasonal dynamics of neuromuscular system’s parameters in human under exposure to local cooling
Authors: Белощенко  , Beloshchenko D. , Пахомов  , Pakhomov A. , Козлова  , Kozlova V. , Умаров  , Umarov B.
Published: October 2015

The paper presents an experimental verification of Prigogine-Glansdorff’s theorem for evolution of complex biological systems and verification of Prigogine´s theorem for an open nonequilibrium thermodynamic (biological) systems. Entropy can be represented as a value that indicates how many different states are in the system, but it does not represent if they are stable, i.e. it is not linked to the concept of chaos, order and disorder act as deterministic and non-deterministic state of the system. Thus, we found that the conditions of Prigogine-Glansdorff’s theorem for studying the biosystems don’t suite because it is common (except for tremorogramm’s parameters of the spring period) that the entropy of parameters of tremorogramms and myograms statistically doesn’t change.
Research roundup: October 2015
Authors: Seal Joanne , Brook Judy , Lally Sheila
Published: October 2015

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles that may be of interest to health visitors is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Nutrition in pregnancy and breastfeeding: A public health issue
Authors: Lamb Kathryn , Sanders Ruth
Published: October 2015

Nutrition during the childbearing continuum has a significant long-term impact upon the health and wellbeing of mother, infant and the wider family unit ( Ferrari et al, 2013 ; World Health Organization (WHO), 2011 , National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, (NICE) 2008a ; 2008b ). Despite wide-ranging evidence around healthy eating in pregnancy, there is a dearth of information readily available to women on appropriate nutritional intake while breastfeeding. This major public health issue affects the current climate of increasing levels of obesity and widespread poorly balanced diet in women of a childbearing age ( Aubuchon-Endsley et al, 2015 ). The frontline roles of the midwife and health visitor have enormous potential to promote healthy behavioural change, with the need for joined-up community-based care higher than ever due to under-resourced postnatal services ( Fraser and Cullen, 2006 ). Health visitors and midwives should strive to collaborate with women ensuring the fundamental components of a healthy and balanced diet are met while breastfeeding, including addressing portion size, and nutritional values of micronutrients and essential food groups. This would equip women with the necessary tools to create positive behavioural lifestyle changes, important for the longer-term inter-generational health of families and the wider community.
Hand amputations: epidemiology, management and resurfacing options for soft tissue coverage
Authors: Khurram M. F. , Masoodi Z. , Yaseen M. , Bariar L.M. , Haq A.
Published: October 2015

Objective:

Agricultural hand injuries occur mainly among young adults, many affecting the dominant hand, thereby impeding patients' ability to work or cope with social obligations. This study was carried out with the aim of collecting data on the epidemiology and management of agricultural hand injuries in Indian subjects.

Method:

The study was conducted in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, JN Medical College, AMU, Aligarh, India, from October 2009 to December 2013. Patients with agricultural hand injuries were included. Data collected included socio-demographic details, mode and type of injury, type of reconstruction, complications, length of hospital stay and assessment of post-reconstruction status. These data were tabulated and analysed.

Results:

The typical patient was young (mean 33.2 years), of lower socio-economic status and with a total disregard for safety regulations. There is clustering of cases during the wheat harvest season (April–June). Wheat thresher injuries were the most common cause of partial hand amputation (51%), especially during this season. This was followed by fodder cutting (kutti/chara) machine injury, especially in females and children (36%). A simple classification for these injuries has been described and Grade II injury was the commonest. Reverse radial forearm flap was the most suitable regional flap for coverage, whereas thoraco-umbilical flap was the most commonly used distant flap. Patients who had the single-stage procedure had a significantly shorter stay.

Conclusion:

Agricultural hand injuries are not totally avoidable and their incidence can be reduced by proper education, but the low economic and literacy status of the patients is a big hurdle. The forearm offers many flaps for reconstruction of hand, which can be used in defects on dorsal or palmar aspect of hand and results in early discharge from the hospital and early rehabilitation. In patients with associated injury to the forearm, abdominal flaps can be used for cover.
Why pooling funds may be the best approach
Authors: Fallows Jane , Barker Kate , Forrest Danielle , Billson Steph
Published: October 2015

Sal McKeown finds out how local authorities and providers are working to ensure that the funding is applied effectively. While not a huge amount per child, there are plenty of ideas to make it stretch further.
The Pattern of Capital Reproduction in Brazil
Authors: Niemeyer Almeida Filho  , Priscila Santos de Araújo
Published: October 2015

The article develops the hypothesis that there are different patterns of accumulation in Latin America. There are particular characteristics of certain countries, both as regards their productive apparatus and as regards the nature and activities of the State. The hypothesis does not contradict the existence of significant common structural factors. Then there is a theoretical discussion of the concept of capital reproduction. It focuses on data from selected economies dealing with the insertion of Latin America into the international division of labor and highlighting internal differences between national economies in the region. Finally, there is a discussion on the aspects of the Brazilian economy and the presentation of some conclusions.