bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships between botanical and chemical composition of forages: a multivariate approach to grasslands in the Western Italian Alps
Authors: Ravetto Enri Simone , Renna Manuela , Probo Massimiliano , Lussiana Carola , Battaglini Luca M , Lonati Michele , Lombardi Giampiero
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Plant composition of species‐rich mountain grasslands can affect the sensorial and chemical attributes of dairy and meat products, with implications for human health. A multivariate approach was used to analyse the complex relationships between vegetation characteristics (botanical composition and plant community variables) and chemical composition (proximate constituents and fatty acid profile) in mesophilic and dry vegetation ecological groups, comprising six different semi‐natural grassland types in the Western Italian Alps.

RESULTS

Mesophilic and dry grasslands were comparable in terms of phenology, biodiversity indices and proportion of botanical families. The content of total fatty acids and that of the most abundant fatty acids (alpha‐linolenic, linoleic and palmitic acids) were mainly associated to nutrient‐rich plant species, belonging to the mesophilic grassland ecological group. Mesophilic grasslands showed also higher values of crude protein, lower values of fibre content and they were related to higher pastoral values of vegetation compared to dry grasslands. The proximate composition and fatty acid profile appeared mainly single species dependent rather than botanical family dependent.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight that forage from mesophilic grasslands can provide higher nutritive value for ruminants and may be associated to ruminant‐derived food products with a healthier fatty acid profile. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Nebulized water cooling of the canopy affects leaf temperature, berry composition and wine quality of Sauvignon blanc
Authors: Paciello Pericle , Mencarelli Fabio , Palliotti Alberto , Ceccantoni Brunella , Thibon Cécile , Darriet Philippe , Pasquini Massimiliano , Bellincontro Andrea
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

The present paper details a new technique based on spraying nebulized water on vine canopy to counteract the negative impact of the current wave of hot summers with temperatures above 30 °C, which usually determine negative effects on vine yield, grape composition and wine quality.

RESULTS

The automatized spraying system was able to maintain air temperature at below 30 °C (the threshold temperature to start spraying) for all of August 2013, when in the canopy of uncooled vines the temperature was as high as 36 °C. The maintenance of temperature below 30 °C reduced leaf stress linked to high temperature and irradiance regimes as highlighted by the decrease of H2O2 content and catalase activity in the leaves. A higher amount of total polyphenols and organic acids and lower sugars characterized the grapes of cooled vines. Wine from these grapes had a higher content of some volatile thiols like 3‐sulfanylhexanol (3SH) and 3‐sulfanylhexylacetate (3SHA), and lower content of 4‐methyl‐4‐sulfanylpentan‐2‐one (4MSP).

CONCLUSION

Under conditions of high temperature and irradiance regimes, water nebulization on the vine canopy can represent a valid solution to reduce and/or avoid oxidative stress and associated effects in the leaves, ensure a regular berry ripening and maintain high wine quality. The consumption of water during nebulization was acceptable, being 180 L ha−1 min−1, which lasted an average of about 1 min to reduce the temperature below the threshold value of 30 °C. A total of 85–90 hL (from 0.8 to 0.9 mm) of water per hectare per day was required. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis of the suitability of the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies journal evaluation tool
Authors: Jeong Geum‐Hee , Huh Sun
Published: June 2016

The Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies has provided funds to support scientific journals published in Korea. In 2012, it adopted an evaluation tool to assist journals in improving their style and format to meet international standards. This study analysed reliability and fitness of this tool. The 34 evaluation items were tested for goodness of fit, and item analysis was performed for 540 journals based on classical test theory, the Rasch model, and a two‐parameter logistic model. The tool was found to be reliable, with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.94. Based on the goodness of fit test, the outfit mean square was over 2.0 (i.e. outlier) for the following four items: participation in editor training courses, turnover in editors in the most recent 10 years, publishing at least 40 articles annually, and online accessibility. Three items were found to be the most difficult to be fulfilled: participation in editor training courses, description of the length of time the journal has been publishing, and full‐text XML. Above results indicated that this tool was acceptable for measuring the parameters assessed by the items. We concluded that this accreditation system was valid for evaluating a journal's adherence to international publishing standards.
The true malignancy rate in 135 patients with preoperative diagnosis of a lateral neck cyst
Authors: Grønlund Søren , Mey Kristianna , Andersen Elo , Rasmussen Eva Rye
Published: June 2016

Objective

In this study, the true malignancy rate in 135 patients with a preoperative tentative diagnosis of a lateral neck cyst (LNC) was assessed. Furthermore, the sensitivity and specificity of fine needle aspiration of suspected LNC were evaluated and the diagnostic delay was analyzed.

Study Design

This study was retrospective in design and included all patients who had undergone surgery for a suspected LNC in four secondary hospitals in the eastern regions of Denmark during the period of 2009 to 2012.

Methods

One hundred thirty‐five patients were identified and included by means of a search strategy for NOMECO surgical procedure codes KENB40A+B in the electronic surgical booking systems. Because the procedure codes also include median neck cysts and fistulas, the latter were excluded manually.

Results

Of the 135 patients preoperatively diagnosed with LNC, a malignant postoperative histopathological diagnosis was revealed in 19 patients (14.4%). Of these, three individuals were between 35 to 40 years of age. In 17 cases, preoperative fine‐needle aspiration biopsy showed benign cytology, whereas histopathology postoperatively proved to be malignant. This renders a sensitivity of 88.8% and a specificity of 60.0% for fine needle aspiration biopsy with regard to LNC diagnostics.

Conclusion

This study suggests that, for patients older than 35 years, a cystic lateral neck mass should be considered potentially malignant; by contrast, LNC is a diagnosis of exclusion. Any delay in treatment should be avoided until final histopathological diagnosis has been obtained. Arguably, all patients older than 35 years with a cystic lesion laterally on the neck should be included in the fast‐track cancer referral program.

Level of Evidence

2b.
The Structure of Cationic Polyisoprene: Branching versus Cyclization
Authors: Rozentsvet Victor A. , Kozlov Valery G. , Korovina Nelly A. , Stotskaya Olesya A. , Gnezdilov Oleg I. , Kostjuk Sergei V.
Published: June 2016

The structure, molecular weight, and molecular weight distribution (MWD) of polyisoprene fractions, which were obtained during the fraction of polyisoprene with broad MWD (M
w/M
n = 25.6) synthesized with tBuCl/TiCl4 initiating system have been investigated. It is established that chain transfer to polymer leading to branched macromolecules is responsible for the formation of polyisoprene with broad MWD and reduced unsaturation. It is shown for the first time that unsaturation decreased while the content of head and end groups in a single macromolecule increased with increasing molecular weight of polyisoprene fraction. The unsaturated part of the polymer chain consists of presumably trans‐1,4‐units independently of the molecular weight of polyisoprene fraction.

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Loading and Delivery Characteristics of Binary Mixed Polymer Brush‐Grafted Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Fox Tara L. , Tang Saide , Zhang Guoqiang , Horton Jonathan M. , Zhao Bin , Zhu Lei , Stewart Phoebe L.
Published: June 2016

Binary mixed poly(acrylic acid) (PAA)/polystyrene (PS) brush‐grafted silica nanoparticles are evaluated for loading and delivery of a hydrophobic fluorescent dye as a model drug. A previous cryo‐electron tomography study of mixed PAA/PS brush‐grafted silica nanoparticles shows that in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) PAA and PS are microphase separated laterally, while in water PS collapses to form isolated domains within the PAA matrix. Thus, loading with hydrophobic small molecules can be performed in DMF, followed by slow transfer to an aqueous buffer. Loading and release experiments with the fluorescent dye Nile Blue indicate a release half‐life of ≈13 d. Comparison of the loading capability of mixed brush‐grafted nanoparticles with varying percentages of PS indicates that a high percentage of the hydrophobic PS polymer is required in the mixed‐brush layer for retention of Nile Blue. In vitro delivery experiments demonstrate that Nile Blue‐loaded mixed brush‐grafted nanoparticles can mediate delivery of dye to HeLa cells.

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Minimal clinically important worsening on the progressive supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale
Authors: Hewer Sarah , Varley Sue , Boxer Adam L. , Paul Eldho , Williams David R ,   on behalf of the AL‐108‐231 Investigators
Published: June 2016

Background

Despite the widespread use of the Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale (PSPRS), it is not known what change in this scale is meaningful for patients.

Methods

We analyzed data from a large clinical trial in PSP‐Richardson's syndrome (AL‐108‐231) to calculate minimal clinically important worsening. This was defined as the difference in mean change of PSPRS in subjects rated “a little worse” and those rated “unchanged” on the Clinicians' Global Impression of Change Scale. A multivariate analysis using logistic regression assessed the relationship between clinical worsening, PSPRS, depression, and activities of daily living.

Results

The minimal clinically important worsening on the PSPRS was 5.7 points, corresponding to the mean decline over 6 months in the trial. Changes in activities of daily living and PSPRS were significantly associated with clinical worsening.

Conclusions

Clinically meaningful change is measurable on the PSPRS over 6 months. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Similar α‐Synuclein staining in the colon mucosa in patients with Parkinson's disease and controls
Authors: Antunes Laurent , Frasquilho Sonia , Ostaszewski Marek , Weber Jos. , Longhino Laura , Antony Paul , Baumuratov Aidos , Buttini Manuel , Shannon Kathleen M. , Balling Rudi , Diederich Nico J.
Published: June 2016

Background

The gut is proposed as a starting point of idiopathic IPD, but the presence of α‐synuclein in the IPD colon mucosa is debated.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate if α‐synuclein in the colon mucosa can serve as a biomarker of IPD.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to locate and quantify in a blinded approach α‐synuclein in the mucosa from biopsies of the right and left colon in 19 IPD patients and 8 controls.

Results

Total α‐synuclein was present in all but 1 IPD patients and in all controls; phosphorylated α‐synuclein was present in all subjects. There was no intensity difference depending on disease status. Staining of total α‐synuclein was stronger in the right colon (p = .04).

Conclusions

Conventional immunohistochemistry α‐synuclein staining in colon mucosal biopsies cannot serve as a biomarker of idiopathic PD. These findings do not contradict the assumption of disease starting in the colon, and a colon segment‐specific risk for disease initiation can still be hypothesized. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
On decay estimates of the 3D nematic liquid crystal flows in critical Besov spaces
Authors: Liu Qiao , Zhao Jihong
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we develop the energy argument in homogeneous Besov space framework to study the large time behavior of global‐in‐time strong solutions to the Cauchy problem of the three‐dimensional incompressible nematic liquid crystal flows with low regularity assumptions on initial data. More precisely, if the small initial data
with 1 < p < ∞ and further assume that
with 1 < q≤p and
, then the global‐in‐time strong solution (u,d) to the nematic liquid crystal flows admits the following temporal decay rate:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma3846:mma3846-math-0004
Here,
is a constant unit vector. The highlight of our argument is to show that the
‐norms (with
) of solution are preserved along time evolution. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of initial‐boundary value problems of gradient elasticity in the realm of implicit second order evolution equations
Authors: Charalambopoulos Antonios , Bokas Lefteris
Published: June 2016

The initial‐boundary value problems encountered in the regime of the dynamic theory of gradient elasticity are characterized by several crucial and intrinsic issues. One of the most important characteristics is that the involving differential equation is of fourth order and mainly that the second order time derivative – appearing in it – is not given explicitly but in the contrary is incorporated implicitly in mixed‐type differential terms (via spatial‐time derivatives). The aim of the present work is the investigation of the emerged initial‐boundary value problems of gradient elasticity in one spatial dimension and the establishment of the suitable functional setting assuring existence and uniqueness of weak (or strong) solutions. Furthermore, the spectral analysis of the gradient elastic operator is investigated and compared with the well‐known results of classical elasticity. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A note on Arzela–Ascoli's lemma in almost periodic problems
Authors: Zhou Qiyuan , Shao Jianying
Published: June 2016

This paper is concerned with a generalized Arzela–Ascoli's lemma, which has been extensively applied in almost periodic problems by the continuation theorem of degree theory. We give a counter example to show that this lemma is incorrect, and there is a gap in the proof of some existing literature, where the addressed generalized Arzela–Ascoli's lemma was used. Moreover, we make some final comments and introduce an open problem. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Different effects of anthocyanins and phenolic acids from wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) on monocytes adhesion to endothelial cells in a TNF‐α stimulated proinflammatory environment
Authors: Del Bo' Cristian , Roursgaard Martin , Porrini Marisa , Loft Steffen , Møller Peter , Riso Patrizia
Published: June 2016

Scope

Monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium is a crucial step in the early stages of atherogenesis. This study aims to investigate the capacity of an anthocyanin (ACN) and phenolic acid (PA) rich fraction (RF) of a wild blueberry, single ACNs (cyanidin, malvidin, delphinidin) and related metabolites (protocatechuic, syringic, and gallic acid) to counteract monocytes (THP‐1) adhesion to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) mediated proinflammatory environment.

Methods and results

HUVECs were incubated with different concentrations (from 0.01 to 10 μg/mL) of the compounds for 24 h. Labeled monocytic THP‐1 cells were added to HUVECs and their adhesion was induced by TNF‐α (100 ng/mL). ACN‐RF reduced THP‐1 adhesion to HUVECs with a maximum effect at 10 μg/mL (−33%). PA‐RF counteracted THP‐1 adhesion at 0.01, 0.1, and 1 μg/mL (−45, −48.7, and −27.6%, respectively), but not at maximum concentration. Supplementation with gallic acid reduced THP‐1 adhesion to HUVECs with a maximum effect at 1 μg/mL (−29.9%), while malvidin‐3‐glucoside and syringic acid increased the adhesion. No effect was observed for the other compounds.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ACNs/PA‐RF may prevent atherogenesis while the effects of the single ACNs and metabolites are controversial and merit further exploration.
A diamino based resin modified silica composite for the selective recovery of tungsten from wastewater
Authors: Dinker Manish Kumar , Patil Nitin Vishwas , Kulkarni Prashant Shripad
Published: June 2016

A new adsorbent was developed by synthesizing 1,8‐diaminonaphthalene formaldehyde resin (DANFR) and coating it over the surface of silica gels. The silica composite was then treated with HCl for the activation of binding sites (−NH3+Cl−) on its surface. The structure of DANFR and its coating over the silanols were thoroughly characterized. Further, the adsorbent was applied to remove tungsten (W) from printed circuit board recycling unit wastewater that contained various co‐metal ions such as Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Pb2+, NH4+, Zn2+, Cu2+ and Mn2+. The selective removal was achieved due to the anion exchange mechanism of Cl− with W(VI) while other cations get repelled from the surface (−NH3+) of the DANFR‐silica composite. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies, Raman spectra and overlay chromatograms of ion chromatography demonstrated selective separation of WO42− species from the wastewater. A removal capacity of 55.32 mg g−1 for W(VI) was achieved from the wastewater within 45 min of reaction (pH ca 6.0). Simultaneous treatment with neat aqueous solution of W brings out 63.27 mg g−1 of W(VI) removal. Finally, recovery of WO42− ions and regeneration of the adsorbent were carried out by using alkaline solution which demonstrated successful desorption, as investigated by using ion chromatography. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Measuring the individual benefit of a medical or behavioral treatment using generalized linear mixed‐effects models
Authors: Diaz Francisco J.
Published: June 2016

We propose statistical definitions of the individual benefit of a medical or behavioral treatment and of the severity of a chronic illness. These definitions are used to develop a graphical method that can be used by statisticians and clinicians in the data analysis of clinical trials from the perspective of personalized medicine. The method focuses on assessing and comparing individual effects of treatments rather than average effects and can be used with continuous and discrete responses, including dichotomous and count responses. The method is based on new developments in generalized linear mixed‐effects models, which are introduced in this article. To illustrate, analyses of data from the Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression clinical trial of sequences of treatments for depression and data from a clinical trial of respiratory treatments are presented. The estimation of individual benefits is also explained. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of two correlated ROC curves at a given specificity or sensitivity level
Authors: Bantis Leonidas E. , Feng Ziding
Published: June 2016

The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve is the most popular statistical tool for evaluating the discriminatory capability of a given continuous biomarker. The need to compare two correlated ROC curves arises when individuals are measured with two biomarkers, which induces paired and thus correlated measurements. Many researchers have focused on comparing two correlated ROC curves in terms of the area under the curve (AUC), which summarizes the overall performance of the marker. However, particular values of specificity may be of interest. We focus on comparing two correlated ROC curves at a given specificity level. We propose parametric approaches, transformations to normality, and nonparametric kernel‐based approaches. Our methods can be straightforwardly extended for inference in terms ofROC−1(t). This is of particular interest for comparing the accuracy of two correlated biomarkers at a given sensitivity level. Extensions also involve inference for the AUC and accommodating covariates. We evaluate the robustness of our techniques through simulations, compare them with other known approaches, and present a real‐data application involving prostate cancer screening. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistical issues related to dietary intake as the response variable in intervention trials
Authors: Keogh Ruth H. , Carroll Raymond J. , Tooze Janet A. , Kirkpatrick Sharon I. , Freedman Laurence S.
Published: June 2016

The focus of this paper is dietary intervention trials. We explore the statistical issues involved when the response variable, intake of a food or nutrient, is based on self‐report data that are subject to inherent measurement error. There has been little work on handling error in this context. A particular feature of self‐reported dietary intake data is that the error may be differential by intervention group. Measurement error methods require information on the nature of the errors in the self‐report data. We assume that there is a calibration sub‐study in which unbiased biomarker data are available. We outline methods for handling measurement error in this setting and use theory and simulations to investigate how self‐report and biomarker data may be combined to estimate the intervention effect. Methods are illustrated using data from the Trial of Nonpharmacologic Intervention in the Elderly, in which the intervention was a sodium‐lowering diet and the response was sodium intake. Simulations are used to investigate the methods under differential error, differing reliability of self‐reports relative to biomarkers and different proportions of individuals in the calibration sub‐study. When the reliability of self‐report measurements is comparable with that of the biomarker, it is advantageous to use the self‐report data in addition to the biomarker to estimate the intervention effect. If, however, the reliability of the self‐report data is low compared with that in the biomarker, then, there is little to be gained by using the self‐report data. Our findings have important implications for the design of dietary intervention trials. © 2016 The Authors.Statistics in Medicinepublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
An empirical study on developer‐related factors characterizing fix‐inducing commits
Authors: Tufano Michele , Bavota Gabriele , Poshyvanyk Denys , Di Penta Massimiliano , Oliveto Rocco , De Lucia Andrea
Published: June 2016

This paper analyzes developer‐related factors that could influence the likelihood for a commit to induce a fix. Specifically, we focus on factors that could potentially hinder developers' ability to correctly understand the code components involved in the change to be committed as follows: (i) the coherence of the commit (i.e., how much it is focused on a specific topic); (ii) the experience level of the developer on the files involved in the commit; and (iii) the interfering changes performed by other developers on the files involved in past commits. The results of our study indicate that ‘fix‐inducing’ commits (i.e., commits that induced a fix) are significantly less coherent than ‘clean’ commits (i.e., commits that did not induce a fix). Surprisingly, ‘fix‐inducing’ commits are performed by more experienced developers; yet, those are the developers performing more complex changes in the system. Finally, ‘fix‐inducing’ commits have a higher number of past interfering changes as compared with ‘clean’ commits. Our empirical study sheds light on previously unexplored factors and presents significant results that can be used to improve approaches for defect prediction. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ErbB Receptor Tyrosine Kinase: A Molecular Switch Between Cardiac and Neuroectoderm Specification in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Ramachandra Chrishan J. A. , Mehta Ashish , Lua Chong Hui , Chitre Anuja , Ja K. P. Myu Mai , Shim Winston
Published: June 2016

Mechanisms determining intrinsic differentiation bias inherent to human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) toward cardiogenic fate remain elusive. We evaluated the interplay between ErbB4 and Epidemal growth factor receptor (EGFR or ErbB1) in determining cardiac differentiation in vitro as these receptor tyrosine kinases are key to heart and brain development in vivo. Our results demonstrate that during cardiac differentiation, cell fate biases exist in hPSCs due to cardiac/neuroectoderm divergence post cardiac mesoderm stage. Stage-specific up-regulation of EGFR in concert with persistent Wnt3a signaling post cardiac mesoderm favors commitment toward neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Inhibition of EGFR abrogates these effects with enhanced (>twofold) cardiac differentiation efficiencies by increasing proliferation of Nkx2-5 expressing cardiac progenitors while reducing proliferation of Sox2 expressing NPCs. Forced overexpression of ErbB4 rescued cardiac commitment by augmenting Wnt11 signaling. Convergence between EGFR/ErbB4 and canonical/noncanonical Wnt signaling determines cardiogenic fate in hPSCs.
Experimental Philosophy 2.0
Authors: Nado Jennifer ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2016

I recommend three revisions to experimental philosophy’s ‘self-image’ which I suggest will enable experimentalist critics of intuition to evade several important objections to the ’negative’ strand of the experimental philosophy research project. First, experimentalists should avoid broad criticisms of ‘intuition’ as a whole, instead drawing a variety of conclusions about a variety of much narrower categories of mental state. Second, experimentalists should state said conclusions in terms of epistemic norms particular to philosophical inquiry, rather than attempting to, for example, deny that intuitions produce justified belief. Third, experimentalists should acknowledge the limitations of the ‘method of cases’ model of philosophical inquiry, and expand their experimental work accordingly.
Hydro power flexibility for power systems with variable renewable energy sources: an IEA Task 25 collaboration
Authors: Huertas‐Hernando Daniel , Farahmand Hossein , Holttinen Hannele , Kiviluoma Juha , Rinne Erkka , Söder Lennart , Milligan Michael , Ibanez Eduardo , Martínez Sergio Martín , Gomez‐Lazaro Emilio , Estanqueiro Ana , Rodrigues Luis , Carr Luis , van Roon Serafin , Orths Antje Gesa , Eriksen Peter Børre , Forcione Alain , Menemenlis Nickie
Published: June 2016

Hydro power is one of the most flexible sources of electricity production. Power systems with considerable amounts of flexible hydro power potentially offer easier integration of variable generation, e.g., wind and solar. However, there exist operational constraints to ensure mid‐/long‐term security of supply while keeping river flows and reservoirs levels within permitted limits. In order to properly assess the effective available hydro power flexibility and its value for storage, a detailed assessment of hydro power is essential. Due to the inherent uncertainty of the weather‐dependent hydrological cycle, regulation constraints on the hydro system, and uncertainty of internal load as well as variable generation (wind and solar), this assessment is complex. Hence, it requires proper modeling of all the underlying interactions between hydro power and the power system, with a large share of other variable renewables. A summary of existing experience of wind integration in hydro‐dominated power systems clearly points to strict simulation methodologies. Recommendations include requirements for techno‐economic models to correctly assess strategies for hydro power and pumped storage dispatch. These models are based not only on seasonal water inflow variations but also on variable generation, and all these are in time horizons from very short term up to multiple years, depending on the studied system. Another important recommendation is to include a geographically detailed description of hydro power systems, rivers’ flows, and reservoirs as well as grid topology and congestion. WIREs Energy Environ 2017, 6:e220. doi: 10.1002/wene.220

This article is categorized under:

Wind Power > Science and Materials

Wind Power > Systems and Infrastructure
Gynaecological endoscopic surgical education and assessment. A diploma programme in gynaecological endoscopic surgery
Authors: Campo Rudi , Wattiez Arnaud , Tanos Vasilis , Di Spiezio Sardo Attilio , Grimbizis Grigoris , Wallwiener Diethelm , Brucker Sara , Puga Marco , Molinas Roger , O’Donovan Peter , Deprest Jan , Van Belle Yves , Lissens Ann , Herrmann Anja , Tahir Mahmood , Benedetto Chiara , Siebert Igno , Rabischong Benoit , De Wilde Rudy Leon
Published: June 2016

In recent years, training and education in endoscopic surgery has been critically reviewed. Clinicians, both surgeons as gynaecologist who perform endoscopic surgery without proper training of the specific psychomotor skills, are at higher risk to increased patient morbidity and mortality. Although the apprentice-tutor model has long been a successful approach for training of surgeons, recently, clinicians have recognised that endoscopic surgery requires an important training phase outside the operating theatre. The Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgical Education and Assessment programme (GESEA) recognises the necessity of this structured approach and implements two separated stages in its learning strategy. In the first stage, a skill certificate on theoretical knowledge and specific practical psychomotor skills is acquired through a high-stake exam; in the second stage, a clinical programme is completed to achieve surgical competence and receive the corresponding diploma. Three diplomas can be awarded: (a) the Bachelor in Endoscopy, (b) the Minimally Invasive Gynaecological Surgeon (MIGS) and (c) the Master level. The Master level is sub-divided into two separate diplomas: the Master in Laparoscopic Pelvic Surgery and the Master in Hysteroscopy. The complexity of modern surgery has increased the demands and challenges to surgical education and the quality control. This programme is based on the best available scientific evidence, and it counteracts the problem of the traditional surgical apprentice-tutor model. It is seen as a major step toward standardisation of endoscopic surgical training in general.
Yielding in Surfactant Suspension Pastes: Effect of Surfactant Type
Authors: Shukla Asheesh , Arnipally Sumanth , Dagaonkar Manoj , Joshi Yogesh M.
Published: June 2016

In this work, we study the rheological properties and the yielding behavior of cleaning pastes containing surfactant and abrasive particles, for three different types of surfactants, namely linear alkyl benzene sulfonate (LAS), alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS) and sodium lauryl ether sulfonate (SLES). All the pastes were observed to have soft solid‐like consistency with their elastic modulus significantly greater than the viscous modulus. With around 36 volume percent of particulate matter, the high stiffness of the pastes suggests that particles form a space spanning network. Interestingly, when subjected to oscillatory shear deformation with increasing strain amplitude, the elastic modulus undergoes a decrease in two steps thereby showing a two‐step yielding behavior. It is observed that the first yield stress does not show frequency dependence, and for LAS‐containing paste was the largest followed by AOS‐ and SLES‐containing pastes, respectively. The second yield stress, on the other hand, for all the three pastes is observed to increase with frequency. Careful assessment of the experimental data suggests that the first yielding event is due to rupture of the network which leads to formation of particulate aggregates. The second yielding event is attributed to breakage of aggregates. In both yielding phenomena, surfactants play an important role. Since, the phase behavior of surfactant in water determines the inter‐particle interaction and network density, the nature of surfactant has a pivotal influence on both the yielding phenomena in surfactant suspension pastes used for cleaning purposes.
Gekommen, um zu bleiben? Der Verbleib internationaler Studierender in Deutschland aus einer Lebenslaufperspektive
Authors: Glorius Birgit
Published: June 2016

Against the background of demographic ageing in Germany, there are increasing attempts to attract high qualified labor force from abroad, and there is high interest to retain international students who graduate from German universities. Germany is an important destination country for international students, and the formal conditions for staying on and entering the labor market upon graduation were largely liberated during the past years. Survey results show a high interest for an extended stay in Germany among international students, but retention rates reveal that those intentions are only partly put into practice. This article investigates on this discrepancy. Using a qualitative case study, the attitudes, experiences and future plans of international students in Germany are analyzed focusing on possible intentions to stay for good. The analysis focuses on the question, how decisions to move or stay on are embedded in biographical status passages such as the transition from university to work life. The results show a strong impact of life cycle considerations with regards to future mobility decisions among the interviewees. Both previous and future migratory decisions are negotiated on the basis of a transnational action space, integrating rational argumentation as well as subjectivities and influences from peers and family members.
Evaluation of external FRP-concrete bond in repaired concrete bridge girders and columns
Authors: Pallempati Hemachand , Beneberu Eyosias , Yazdani Nur
Published: June 2016

Fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) is increasingly used to strengthen damaged or structurally unsafe concrete bridges. The FRP wrapping on eight concrete bridges was evaluated with ASTM pull-off testing to assess the condition of the bonding. A majority of samples failed in the concrete substrate. However, large variations in failure modes and pull-off strengths were observed, possibly due to environmental degradation or improper application. A majority of samples failed in the ASTM Mode G in concrete. Average bond strength from columns samples was 20 % lower than that from girders, due to the difficulty of pull-off testing on round column surfaces.
Age‐stratified analysis of long‐term outcomes of transvaginal mesh repair for treatment of pelvic organ prolapse
Authors: Dong Shengnan , Zhong Yanbo , Chu Lei , Li Huaifang , Tong Xiaowen , Wang Jianjun
Published: June 2016

Objective

To investigate long‐term outcomes after transvaginal mesh repair among patients with pelvic organ prolapse in different age groups.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among women who underwent transvaginal mesh repair with polypropylene mesh for pelvic organ prolapse of stage II or higher between January 2007 and November 2011 at a center in Shanghai, China. Patients were invited to attend a follow‐up appointment between July 2014 and May 2015. Surgical outcomes were compared among three age groups (≤ 59, 60–74, and ≥ 75 years), and quality‐of‐life questionnaires were evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with recurrent prolapse and mesh exposure.

Results

Among 158 patients, 143 (90.5%) were objectively cured and 149 (94.3%) were subjectively cured at follow‐up. Surgical outcomes were similar across all age groups. Significant improvements were observed on the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory across all applicable subscales in all age groups (P < 0.001 for all). Multivariate logistic regression showed that an active postoperative sex life significantly increased the risk of mesh exposure (odds ratio 11.89, 95% confidence interval 1.08–131.48; P = 0.043).

Conclusion

Transvaginal mesh repair was found to be a safe and effective technique for treating pelvic organ prolapse among women of all ages. An active postoperative sex life increased the odds of mesh exposure.
The value of ultrasonographic tubo‐ovarian abscess morphology in predicting whether patients will require surgical treatment
Authors: Kinay Tugba , Unlubilgin Eylem , Cirik Derya A. , Kayikcioglu Fulya , Akgul Mehmet A. , Dolen Ismail
Published: June 2016

Objective

To determine if the ultrasonographic morphology of a tubo‐ovarian abscess (TOA) could be used to predict if a patient will require surgical treatment.

Method

A retrospective cohort study reviewed medical records from patients diagnosed with TOA via ultrasonography between January 2009 and January 2014 at a tertiary referral center in Turkey. Patients with pelvic inflammatory disease and an inflammatory adnexal mass, identified during sonographic examination, were included in the study. Ultrasonographic morphology, demographic characteristics, and clinical and laboratory findings were compared between patients who required surgical treatment and those who did not.

Results

Records were included from 164 patients; medical therapy was successful in 121 (73.8%) patients and 43 (26.2%) required surgical treatment. TOA morphology was identified, using ultrasonography, as unilocular cystic, complex multicystic mass, or pyosalpinx in 56 (34.1%), 73 (44.5%), and 35 (21.3%) patients, respectively. No correlation was present between ultrasonographic TOA morphology and patients requiring surgical treatment (all P > 0.05). Multivariate analyses demonstrated that an abscess larger than 6.5 cm in size (P = 0.027), fever at admission (P < 0.001), and parity greater than two (P = 0.026) were independent predictors of patients requiring surgical treatment for TOA.

Conclusion

Although increased TOA size, fever at admission, and parity were associated with increased odds of patients with TOA requiring surgical treatment, ultrasonographic TOA morphology was not.
Analysis of Migration Patterns of Disk Fragments and Contributing Factors in Extruded Lumbar Disk Herniation
Authors: Son Eun‐Seok , Kim Du Hwan , Jung Jae Won , Lee Donggyu
Published: June 2016

Background

The exact location of migrated extruded lumbar disk fragments is an important consideration in selecting a treatment plan. However, few descriptive reports of the migration pattern of extruded lumbar disk fragments are available.

Objective

To examine the distribution of disk fragments and possible contributing factors that affect their migration.

Design

Retrospective descriptive study.

Setting

Tertiary university outpatient and inpatient clinic.

Patients

A total of 164 patients diagnosed with a symptomatic extruded lumbar disk from January 2011 to December 2012.

Methods

Lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging scans of patients were retrospectively reviewed. The term “migration” was defined as the horizontal and vertical displacement of extruded material away from the opening in the annulus through which the material has extruded. Migration of the disk material was recorded in both the horizontal and vertical plane. In the horizontal plane, migration was recorded as central, paracentral, subarticular, or foraminal. In the vertical plane, migration was recorded as rostral or caudal.

Main Outcome Measurements

The pattern of migration and the associated factors (age and the level of herniation) were analyzed.

Results

Rostral and caudal migration was observed in 27% (95% confidence interval [CI], 21%‐35%) and 73% (95% CI, 66%‐79%) of the patients. Central, paracentral, subarticular, and foraminal migration was observed in 6% (95% CI, 3%‐11%), 67% (95% CI, 60%‐74%), 18% (95% CI, 13%‐25%), and 9% (95% CI, 5%‐14%) of the patients, respectively. A significant increase was observed in the incidence of rostral migration with increasing age (P = .048). A significant association was also noted between migration in the horizontal plane and increasing age (P = .01). A significant increase occurred in the incidence of foraminal extrusion with increasing age (P = .01). A significant association was found between migration in the vertical plane and horizontal plane; in patients with foraminal herniations, migration was always rostral (P < .001).

Conclusion

The migration of extruded lumbar disk materials follows some general patterns. The results of this study may help spine interventionists and surgeons choose appropriate treatments for patients who have radiculopathy associated with lumbar disk extrusions.

Level of Evidence

IV
Health Benefits of Zumba Fitness Training: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vendramin Barbara , Bergamin Marco , Gobbo Stefano , Cugusi Lucia , Duregon Federica , Bullo Valentina , Zaccaria Marco , Neunhaeuserer Daniel , Ermolao Andrea
Published: June 2016

Objective

As an alternative to the traditional approach to physical exercise, new kinds of organized physical activity have been developed designed to engage large segments of the population. Among these, Zumba fitness is extremely popular, with a growing number of participants. This article aims to summarize and analyze the body of evidence on the effects of Zumba fitness interventions on physical function, fitness, and wellbeing.

Type

Systematic review.

Literature Survey

Keyword “Zumba” was identified as term for the literature research in MEDLINE, Scopus, Bandolier, PEDro, and Web of Science. Only studies published in peer‐reviewed journals written in English language were considered.

Methodology

Eleven manuscripts were classified as eligible with 586 total participants, ranging in age from 18 to 65 years. After a quality appraisal, we classified 4 studies as high‐quality investigations and 7 as low quality. Results were summarized in several domains: “anthropometric parameters and body composition,” “hormonal and metabolic profiles,” “aerobic and cardiovascular performance,” “muscular fitness parameters,” and “quality of life, pain score and physical activity questionnaire.”

Synthesis

Results from this systematic review indicated that Zumba fitness could be considered an effective type of physical activity able to improve aerobic capacity. Small but positive benefits were noted for reducing body weight and other body measurements. Furthermore, other effects, including psychological and social benefits on quality of life, were found after Zumba fitness interventions. Otherwise, limited evidence described positive effects on muscular strength and flexibility.

Conclusions

Zumba fitness could be considered an effective type of physical activity able to improve aerobic capacity. Limited evidence described positive effects on muscular strength and flexibility.

Level of Evidence

II
The Sonographic Posterolateral Rotatory Stress Test for Elbow Instability: A Cadaveric Validation Study
Authors: Camp Christopher L. , O'Driscoll Shawn W. , Wempe Michael K. , Smith Jay
Published: June 2016

Background

Although clinical tests can detect posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow, the ability of ultrasound to evaluate PLRI has not been assessed.

Objective

To determine whether increasing stages of posterolateral rotatory subluxation of the elbow could be assessed accurately with a sonographic posterolateral rotatory stress test.

Design

Cadaveric study.

Setting

Laboratory.

Patients

Ten, unpaired, cadaveric upper limbs.

Methods

Posterolateral ulnohumeral distance was measured by ultrasound at rest and during manual sonographic posterolateral rotatory stress testing at 4 stages of increasing instability: (1) intact elbow, (2) extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) release, (3) ECRB release + lateral collateral ligament complex (LCLC) release to produce a positive posterolateral drawer test, and (4) ECRB release + LCLC and capsule release to produce a positive lateral pivot‐shift test. Mean values for sonographic resting ulnohumeral distance, stressed ulnohumeral distance, and laxity were calculated for each stage and compared between stages.

Main Outcome Measures

Posterolateral ulnohumeral laxity.

Results

Mean ulnohumeral laxities were 1, 3, 6, and 10 mm (P < .001) for stages 1‐4, respectively. Pairwise comparison of mean laxity between the intact elbow (Stage 1) and each pathologic state (Stages 2‐4) demonstrated differences of 2 mm (Stage 1 versus 2); 5 mm (Stage 1 versus 3); and 9 mm (Stage 1 versus 4) (P < .001). The minimal difference in ulnohumeral laxity noted between the intact elbow and an elbow with a clinically positive posterolateral rotatory drawer test (Stage 3) was 4 mm.

Conclusions

The sonographic posterolateral rotatory stress test detected increasing posterolateral ulnohumeral laxity as a function of increasing clinical PLRI. This test may be used as an adjunct to history, examination, and static imaging to assess ulnohumeral laxity in patients with lateral elbow pain syndromes. Within the limits of this investigation, sonographic posterolateral ulnohumeral laxity of >4 mm should raise suspicion of underlying instability.

Level of Evidence

IV
First‐in‐human, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single‐dose escalation study of aducanumab (BIIB037) in mild‐to‐moderate Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ferrero James , Williams Leslie , Stella Heather , Leitermann Kate , Mikulskis Alvydas , O'Gorman John , Sevigny Jeff
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Aducanumab (BIIB037), a human monoclonal antibody selective for aggregated forms of amyloid beta, is being investigated as a disease‐modifying treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled single ascending‐dose study investigated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of aducanumab in patients with mild‐to‐moderate AD. Eligible patients were sequentially randomized 6:2 to aducanumab (0.3, 1, 3, 10, 20, 30, and 60 mg/kg) or placebo.

Results

The primary outcome was safety and tolerability. Doses ≤30 mg/kg were generally well tolerated with no severe or serious adverse events (SAEs). All three patients who received 60 mg/kg aducanumab developed SAEs of symptomatic amyloid‐related imaging abnormalities, which completely resolved by weeks 8–15. Aducanumab Cmax, AUC0–last, and AUCinf increased in a dose‐proportional manner.

Discussion

In this single‐dose study, aducanumab demonstrated an acceptable safety and tolerability profile and linear PK at doses ≤30 mg/kg (clinicaltrials.gov NCT01397539).
Balancing design freedom and brand recognition in the evolution of automotive brand styling
Authors: Burnap Alexander , Hartley Jeffrey , Pan Yanxin , Gonzalez Richard , Papalambros Panos Y.
Published: June 2016

Designers faced with the task of developing a new product model of a brand must balance several considerations. The design must be novel and express attributes important to the customers, while also recognizable as a representative of the brand. This balancing is left to the intuition of the designers, who must anticipate how customers will perceive the new design. Oftentimes, the design freedom used to meet a product attribute can compromise the recognition of the product as a member of the brand. In this paper, an experiment is conducted for measuring changes in ten styling attributes common to both design freedom and brand recognition for automotive designs from four brands, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, and Lexus, using customer responses to two- and three-dimensional vehicle designs created and presented interactively through a crowdsourced web application. Results show that while brand recognition is highly dependent on the manufacturer, two brands have strong negative relationship between design freedom and brand recognition, suggesting that these two manufacturers face a significant challenge when evolving their respective brand styling. This study is a first effort toward quantifying and predicting tradeoffs between design freedom and brand recognition, contributing to existing efforts that augment human intuition during strategic design decisions.