bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business Attraction and Redistribution by U.S. Local Governments
Authors: Adua Lazarus , Lobao Linda
Published: January 2016

As localities increasingly confront challenging fiscal circumstances, how are they prioritizing the interests of business vis-à-vis citizens’? While some scholars suggest an inverse relationship between localities’ developmental policies and social services provision, a zero-sum situation, others question this view. The second group of scholars suggest a positive-sum relationship where governments attend similarly to the interests of both business and citizens or where efforts devoted to business do not undermine social policy. Analyses of a national survey of county governments reveal support for both views, although the positive-sum hypothesis receives more affirmation. Counties are sustaining social safety nets even as they pursue business-friendly developmental policies.
Two-Wave Dyadic Analysis of Marital Quality and Loneliness in Later Life: Results From the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing
Authors: Stokes Jeffrey E.
Published: January 2016

This study examines dyadic reports of marital quality and loneliness over a two-year period among 932 older married couples resident in Ireland. Data from the first two waves of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (2009–2013) were analyzed to determine whether husbands’ and wives’ marital quality and loneliness at baseline predicted both spouses’ loneliness 2 years later. Two-wave lagged models tested the cognitive perspective on loneliness, the induction hypothesis, and actor–partner interdependence. Results indicated that perceptions of negative marital quality at baseline were related with greater loneliness 2 years later, supporting the cognitive perspective. Further, both spouses’ reports of loneliness at baseline were related with loneliness 2 years later, supporting the induction hypothesis. Partners’ reports of marital quality were not related with future loneliness, failing to support actor–partner interdependence. I discuss the implications of these findings for theory, practice, and future research concerning intimate relationships and loneliness in later life.
Drug-induced Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Brown H. Roger , Castellino Stephen , Groseclose M. Reid , Elangbam Chandikumar S. , Mellon-Kusibab Kathryn , Yoon Lawrence W. , Gates Lisa D. , Krull David L. , Cariello Neal F. , Arrington-Brown Leigh , Tillman Tony , Fowler Serita , Shah Vishal , Bailey David , Miller Richard T.
Published: January 2016

Nevirapine (NVP) is associated with hepatotoxicity in 1–5% of patients. In rodent studies, NVP has been shown to cause hepatic enzyme induction, centrilobular hypertrophy, and skin rash in various rat strains but not liver toxicity. In an effort to understand whether NVP is metabolized differently in a transiently inflamed liver and whether a heightened immune response alters NVP-induced hepatic responses, female brown Norway rats were dosed with either vehicle or NVP alone (75 mg/kg/day for 15 days) or galactosamine alone (single intraperitoneal [ip] injection on day 7 to mimic viral hepatitis) or a combination of NVP (75/100/150 mg/kg/day for 15 days) and galactosamine (single 750 mg/kg ip on day 7). Livers were collected at necropsy for histopathology, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry and gene expression. Eight days after galactosamine, hepatic fibrosis was noted in rats dosed with the combination of NVP and galactosamine. No fibrosis occurred with NVP alone or galactosamine alone. Gene expression data suggested a viral-like response initiated by galactosamine via RNA sensors leading to apoptosis, toll-like receptor, and dendritic cell responses. These were exacerbated by NVP-induced growth factor, retinol, apoptosis, and periostin effects. This finding supports clinical reports warning against exacerbation of fibrosis by NVP in patients with hepatitis C.
Efficacy of Maxillomandibular Advancement Examined with Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy and Computational Fluid Dynamics Airflow Modeling
Authors: Liu Stanley Yung‐Chuan , Huon Leh‐Kiong , Iwasaki Tomonori , Yoon Audrey , Riley Robert , Powell Nelson , Torre Carlos , Capasso Robson
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To use drug‐induced sedation endoscopy (DISE) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling to study dynamic airway and airflow changes after maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), and how the changes correlate with surgical success based on polysomnography parameters.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

University medical center.

Methods

DISE was rated with the VOTE (velum, oropharynx, tongue, epiglottis) classification, and CFD was used to model airflow velocity and negative pressure exerted on pharyngeal wall. Changes in VOTE score by site and CFD measurements were correlated with perioperative polysomnography outcomes of apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI), apnea index (AI), oxygenation desaturation index (ODI), and lowest oxygen saturation.

Results

After MMA, 20 subjects (17 males, 3 females) with a mean age of 44 ± 12 years and body mass index of 27.4 ± 4.6 kg/m2 showed mean decreases in AHI (53.6 ± 26.6 to 9.5 ± 7.4 events/h) and ODI (38.7 ± 30.3 to 8.1 ± 9.2 events/h; P <. 001). Improvement in lateral pharyngeal wall collapse during DISE based on VOTE score correlated with the most decrease in AHI (60.0 ± 25.6 to 7.5 ± 3.4 events/h) and ODI (46.7 ± 29.8 to 5.3 ± 2 events/h; P =. 002). CFD modeling showed significant positive Pearson correlations between reduction of retropalatal airflow velocity and AHI (r = 0.617, P =. 04) and ODI (r = 0.773, P =. 005).

Conclusion

AHI and ODI improvement after MMA is best correlated with (1) decreased retropalatal airflow velocity modeled by CFD and (2) increased lateral pharyngeal wall stability based on VOTE scoring from DISE.
Predictive maintenance, its implementation and latest trends
Authors: Selcuk Sule
Published: January 2016

This study covers new trends and techniques in the field of predictive maintenance, which has been superseding traditional management policies, at least in part. It also presents suggestions for how to implement a predictive maintenance programme in a factory/premise and so on. Predictive maintenance primarily involves foreseeing breakdown of the system to be maintained by detecting early signs of failure in order to make maintenance work more proactive. In addition to the aim of acting before failure, it also aims to attend to any fault, even if there is no immediate danger of failure, to ensure smooth operation and reduce energy consumption. Predictive maintenance has been adopted by various sectors in manufacturing and service industries in order to improve reliability, safety, availability, efficiency and quality as well as to protect the environment. It also has created a separate sector, which specializes in developing predictive maintenance instruments, offering dedicated predictive maintenance solutions and training predictive maintenance experts. Predictive maintenance techniques are closely associated with sensor technologies but for efficient predictive maintenance applications, a comprehensive approach, which integrates sensing with subsequent maintenance activities, is needed to be adapted in accordance with the needs of the particular organization. Recent advances in information, communication and computer technologies, such as Internet of Things and radio-frequency identifications, have been enabling predictive maintenance applications to be more efficient, applicable, affordable, and consequently more common and available for all sorts of industries. Researches on remote maintenance and e-maintenance have been supporting predictive maintenance activities especially in unsafe working environments and scattered locations.
Accuracy enhancement of kinematic error model of three-axis computer numerical control machine tools
Authors: Pezeshki Mostafa , Arezoo Behrooz
Published: January 2016

Accurate estimation of volumetric errors is an important issue in machining operations. For this purpose, a kinematic error model is used to characterize machine tool’s related errors on its workspace. In this research, it is shown that when measuring the linear and positioning errors using a laser interferometer, part of the angular errors are converted to linear and positioning errors and their magnitudes are overestimated. These values are calculated twice in the models which use homogeneous transformation matrix since Abbe’s principle is not considered. In this article, a kinematic error model is proposed which eliminates this overestimation. This model’s methodology is based on rigid body kinematic and errors measurement by laser interferometer and can be generalized for all three-axis machine tools. A software package is developed to integrate the kinematic errors with the NC-codes. A workpiece is machined in the virtual environment and compared with a workpiece machined in real environment. It is shown that the kinematic error model developed in this research predicts the kinematic errors more accurately.
Modified Johnson–Cook flow stress model with thermal softening damping for finite element modeling of cutting
Authors: Laakso Sampsa Vili Antero , Niemi Esko
Published: January 2016

Results of materials testing for lead-free brass show that the effect of thermal softening decreases significantly when the strain rate is high. This behavior is referred to as thermal softening damping. In this article, a flow stress model with thermal softening damping based on the Johnson–Cook flow stress model was developed. Finite element simulations with the proposed model are compared to cutting experiments to estimate the effect of damping in metal cutting.
An ecological approach to normativity
Authors: Lo Presti Patrizio
Published: January 2016

It is argued that normativity is an embodied and situated skill that resists explanation in terms of rule-following. Norms are dynamic and negotiable, and are understood in practice by engaging with others. Rules are a subclass of norms and have pragmatic functions, e.g., to impose norms and elucidate implicit normativity. The propositional articulation of norms is secondary to normativity. Norms can be explained within the framework of ecological psychology as a particular kind of affordance that enables actions to be directly understood as correct. This view entails that the niche of human beings is inherently normative. Finally, the ecological account of normativity is used to elucidate the notion of rule-following.
The Finance Curse: Britain and the World Economy
Authors: Christensen John , Shaxson Nick , Wigan Duncan
Published: January 2016

Outlines harms caused to countries hosting an oversized financial sector Argues Britain is subject to a Finance Curse, which carries many similarities with the Resource Curse, afflicting mineral-exporting countries Provides a narrative and framework to analyse the political economy of finance and financialisation

The Global Financial Crisis placed the utility of financial services in question. The crash, great recession, wealth transfers from public to private, austerity and growing inequality cast doubt on the idea that finance is a boon to the host economy. This article systematizes these doubts to highlight the perils of an oversized financial sector. States failing to harness natural resources for development led to the concept of the Resource Curse. In many countries, resource dependence generated slower growth, crowding out, reduced economic diversity, lost entrepreneurialism, unemployment, economic instability, inequality, conflict, rent-seeking and corruption. The Finance Curse produces similar effects, often for similar reasons. Beyond a point, a growing financial sector can do more harm than good. Unlike the Resource Curse, these harms transcend borders. The concept of a Finance Curse starkly illuminates the condition of Britain’s political economy and the character of its relations with the rest of the world.
What is the relationship among penumbra volume, collaterals, and time since onset in the first 6 h after acute ischemic stroke?
Authors: Cheripelli Bharath Kumar , Huang Xuya , McVerry Ferghal , Muir Keith W
Published: January 2016

Background

The steep, time-dependent loss of benefit from reperfusion in clinical trials is consistent with loss of penumbra over the early hours of ischemia, as observed in animal models. Human imaging studies, however, show persistent penumbra for up to 48 h. We investigated core and penumbra volumes and collateral status in relation to time after stroke onset within the first 6 h.

Methods

Using data from three multimodal computer tomography-based studies in acute ischemic stroke patients <6 h after onset, we measured core and penumbra volumes, collateral status, and target mismatch (defined as core volume < 50 ml, perfusion lesion volume > 15 ml, mismatch ratio > 1.8). Patients were grouped by onset to imaging time (<3, 3–4.5, 4.5–6 h). We explored correlates of penumbra proportion by multivariable linear regression.

Results

Analysis included 144 subjects. Across time epochs, neither proportions of penumbra (59%, 64%, 75% at <3, 3–4.5, >4. 5 h, respectively, p = 0.4) nor poor collaterals (15/56 (27%), 14/47 (30%), 4/15 (27%) at <3, 3–4.5, >4.5 h, p = 0.9) differed significantly. Penumbra proportion was not clearly related to time to imaging ( R2 = 0.003; p = 0.5) but a trend for divergent effects by collateral status was seen (slight increase in penumbra over time with good collaterals versus reduced with poor, interaction = 0.08). The proportion of patients with target mismatch did not vary by time (56%, 74%, and 67% at <3, 3–4.5, >4.5 h, p = 0.09).

Conclusions

In a cross-sectional sample imaged within 6 h, neither the proportions of penumbral tissue nor “target mismatch” varied by time from onset. A trend for reducing penumbra proportion only among those with poor collaterals may have pathophysiological and therapeutic importance.
Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice
Authors:   On behalf of the National Association of School Nurses, Maughan Erin D. , Bobo Nichole , Butler Sarah , Schantz Shirley
Published: January 2016

The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) developed the Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice to reflect current school nurse practice. The Framework of practice was introduced in June 2015, and feedback was requested and obtained from practicing school nurses in a variety of ways. The final version of the Framework is introduced in this article. This article updates (and replaces) the articles in the July 2015 NASN School Nurse related to the Framework. Central to the Framework is student-centered nursing care that occurs within the context of the students’ family and school community. Surrounding the student, family, and school community are the nonhierarchical, overlapping key principles of Care Coordination, Leadership, Quality Improvement, and Community/Public Health.These principles are surrounded by the fifth principle, Standards of Practice, which is foundational for evidence-based and clinically competent quality care. Each of these principles is further defined by practice components. Suggestions are provided regarding how the Framework can be used in a variety of settings to articulate and prioritize school nursing practice. The ultimate goal is to provide a resource to guide school nurses in their practice to help students be healthy, safe, and ready to learn.
Psychosocial Aspects of Obesity
Authors: Beck Amy R.
Published: January 2016

This article is the sixth in a series of the comorbidities of childhood obesity and reviews psychosocial aspects with a focus on weight-based victimization and discrimination stemming from weight bias and stigma. Outcomes from these bullying and discriminatory experiences are pervasive and impact youth across all settings, including school. Lastly, this article provides recommendations on how to reduce bias and stigma to better serve these students in the school environment.
Relational Reasoning
Authors: Alexander Patricia A. , Jablansky Sophie , Singer Lauren M. , Dumas Denis
Published: January 2016

This article addresses two goals. First, it considers the nature and importance of relational reasoning, the ability to discern meaningful patterns within informational streams. Second, it examines four principles about relational reasoning derived from the empirical literature. Specifically, we argue that relational reasoning is foundational and pervasive; varies as a consequence of age, domain, and context; can be measured in diverse ways; and is malleable and teachable. Evidence supports each of these principles, and the implications for educational policies and practices are weighed.
A novel semi-supervised algorithm for the taxonomic assignment of metagenomic reads
Authors: Le Vinh Van , Tran Lang Van , Tran Hoai Van
Published: January 2016

Background

Taxonomic assignment is a crucial step in a metagenomic project which aims to identify the origin of sequences in an environmental sample. Among the existing methods, since composition-based algorithms are not sufficient for classifying short reads, recent algorithms use only the feature of similarity, or similarity-based combined features. However, those algorithms suffer from the computational expense because the task of similarity search is very time-consuming. Besides, the lack of similarity information between reads and reference sequences due to the length of short reads reduces significantly the classification quality.

Results

This paper presents a novel taxonomic assignment algorithm, called SeMeta, which is based on semi-supervised learning to produce a fast and highly accurate classification of short-length reads with sufficient mutual overlap. The proposed algorithm firstly separates reads into clusters using their composition feature. It then labels the clusters with the support of an efficient filtering technique on results of the similarity search between their reads and reference databases. Furthermore, instead of performing the similarity search for all reads in the clusters, SeMeta only does for reads in their subgroups by utilizing the information of sequence overlapping. The experimental results demonstrate that SeMeta outperforms two other similarity-based algorithms on different aspects.

Conclusions

By using a semi-supervised method as well as taking the advantages of various features, the proposed algorithm is able not only to achieve high classification quality, but also to reduce much computational cost. The source codes of the algorithm can be downloaded at http://it.hcmute.edu.vn/bioinfo/metapro/SeMeta.html
TRAPLINE: a standardized and automated pipeline for RNA sequencing data analysis, evaluation and annotation
Authors: Wolfien Markus , Rimmbach Christian , Schmitz Ulf , Jung Julia Jeannine , Krebs Stefan , Steinhoff Gustav , David Robert , Wolkenhauer Olaf
Published: January 2016

Background

Technical advances in Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) provide a means to acquire deeper insights into cellular functions. The lack of standardized and automated methodologies poses a challenge for the analysis and interpretation of RNA sequencing data. We critically compare and evaluate state-of-the-art bioinformatics approaches and present a workflow that integrates the best performing data analysis, data evaluation and annotation methods in aTransparent,Reproducible andAutomatedPipeLINE(TRAPLINE) for RNA sequencing data processing (suitable for Illumina, SOLiD and Solexa).

Results

Comparative transcriptomics analyses with TRAPLINE result in a set of differentially expressed genes, their corresponding protein-protein interactions, splice variants, promoter activity, predicted miRNA-target interactions and files for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) calling. The obtained results are combined into a single file for downstream analysis such as network construction. We demonstrate the value of the proposed pipeline by characterizing the transcriptome of our recently described stem cell derived antibiotic selected cardiac bodies ('aCaBs').

Conclusion

TRAPLINE supports NGS-based research by providing a workflow that requires no bioinformatics skills, decreases the processing time of the analysis and works in the cloud. The pipeline is implemented in the biomedical research platform Galaxy and is freely accessible viawww.sbi.uni-rostock.de/RNAseqTRAPLINEor the specific Galaxy manual page (https://usegalaxy.org/u/mwolfien/p/trapline---manual).
Comparative ethnobotany of the Wakhi agropastoralist and the Kyrgyz nomads of Afghanistan
Authors: Soelberg Jens , Jäger Anna K.
Published: January 2016

Background

The mountainous Wakhan and Pamir in northeastern Afghanistan is one of the most isolated yet inhabited places in Asia. It is home to the agropastoralist Wakhi and the last Afghan semi-nomadic Kyrgyz. We present a study of plant names and uses, along with comparisons of plant name etymology, origins of plant resources, intra- and intercultural exchanges and relations, and the relative availability of the known and used plants.

Methods

The fieldwork was conducted as an expedition in the summer of 2010, and visited settlements and pastures in Upper Wakhan and Big and Little Pamir. Semi-structured group interviews, talks and observations gave initial data on names, uses and the relative availability of used plants, and provided foundation for individual interviews using an interview-herbarium containing vouchers of the 72 most frequently used plants or plant groups.

Results

Wakhi and Kyrgyz plant names are recorded in western transcription, the new Wakhi alphabet, phonetically and in Cyrillic. The present study documents a large body of endemic, indigenous plant knowledge; on crops, fuel, fodder, cosmetics, dyes, vegetables, veterinary medicine, traditional medicines and other plant uses which sustain life in Wakhan and Pamir. Overall, the Wakhi use considerably more plants than the Kyrgyz, and their materia medica and use thereof is more complex. Although the Wakhi and Kyrgyz are close neighbours, there are few indications of direct knowledge transfer between them. Most shared plant uses are strictly necessary for survival in the mountains. While there are few differences between genders and cultural subgroups within the two cultures, the Wakhi and Kyrgyz exhibit great differences both in their total number of use-plants and the distance from which they obtain them. The agropastoralist Wakhi appear to have their basic needs for wild natural resources covered within half a days travel, while the relatively plant-derived environment of the high Pamir appears to have necessitated the nomadic Kyrgyz to adapt by developing uses and obtaining plants that are comparatively remote.

Conclusion

The comparative differences in plant uses between the agropastoralist Wakhi and nomadic Kyrgyz appear to be accentuated by an environment at the extreme of what is humanly possible.
Foodways in transition: food plants, diet and local perceptions of change in a Costa Rican Ngäbe community
Authors: D’Ambrosio Ugo , Puri Rajindra K.
Published: January 2016

Background

Indigenous populations are undergoing rapid ethnobiological, nutritional and socioeconomic transitions while being increasingly integrated into modernizing societies. To better understand the dynamics of these transitions, this article aims to characterize the cultural domain of food plants and analyze its relation with current day diets, and the local perceptions of changes given amongst the Ngäbe people of Southern Conte-Burica, Costa Rica, as production of food plants by its residents is hypothesized to be drastically in recession with an decreased local production in the area and new conservation and development paradigms being implemented.

Methods

Extensive freelisting, interviews and workshops were used to collect the data from 72 participants on their knowledge of food plants, their current dietary practices and their perceptions of change in local foodways, while cultural domain analysis, descriptive statistical analyses and development of fundamental explanatory themes were employed to analyze the data.

Results

Results show a food plants domain composed of 140 species, of which 85 % grow in the area, with a medium level of cultural consensus, and some age-based variation. Although many plants still grow in the area, in many key species a decrease on local production–even abandonment–was found, with much reduced cultivation areas. Yet, the domain appears to be largely theoretical, with little evidence of use; and the diet today is predominantly dependent on foods bought from the store (more than 50 % of basic ingredients), many of which were not salient or not even recognized as ‘food plants’ in freelists exercises. While changes in the importance of food plants were largely deemed a result of changes in cultural preferences for store bought processed food stuffs and changing values associated with farming and being food self-sufficient, Ngäbe were also aware of how changing household livelihood activities, and the subsequent loss of knowledge and use of food plants, were in fact being driven by changes in social and political policies, despite increases in forest cover and biodiversity.

Conclusions

Ngäbe foodways are changing in different and somewhat disconnected ways: knowledge of food plants is varied, reflecting most relevant changes in dietary practices such as lower cultivation areas and greater dependence on food from stores by all families. We attribute dietary shifts to socioeconomic and political changes in recent decades, in particular to a reduction of local production of food, new economic structures and agents related to the State and globalization.
Ethnoichthyology of the indigenous Truká people, Northeast Brazil
Authors: Santos Carlos Alberto Batista , Nóbrega Alves Rômulo Romeu
Published: January 2016

Background

Historically, fishing is an important activity for riverine communities established along the São Francisco River, including indigenous communities. In the present study, we researched fishing activities in two villages of the Truká ethnic group, both located in the State of Pernambuco along the sub-middle section of the São Francisco River, Northeast Brazil. We recorded the richness and uses of the fished species and the ecological knowledge on these species, the fishing techniques employed and the perception of the indigenous people regarding current environmental impacts on the São Francisco River that influence local fishing.

Method

The information was obtained through interviews with 33 Truká fishers (27 men and six women), including 17 interviewees from Central Village (Cabrobó) and 16 from Tapera Village (Orocó).

Results

Using five fishing techniques, the interviewees caught 25 fish species, including 21 native and four exotic species. All species are used as food, and two species are used in traditional Truká medicine. The interviewees revealed that fishing currently has less importance in their subsistence. They indicated that this situation is occurring because of several factors, such as the introduction of exotic species, pollution and urbanization, that have impacted the São Francisco River, resulting in a decline of fishing resources. Nevertheless, we found that the indigenous people who are still fishing have a broad knowledge of the habitat and ecology of the target fishing.

Conclusion

Although fishing is declining in importance among the Truká, we found that the individuals who are still practicing this activity have a broad knowledge about the habitat and ecology of the target species and apply that knowledge to fishing methods. Knowledge about the ecology of the species and the environmental impacts that have affected them can support basic research on local fish populations and research investigating the environmental impacts, resource management and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources.
Patient and clinician views on the quality of foot health care for rheumatoid arthritis outpatients: a mixed methods service evaluation
Authors: de Souza Savia , Williams Ruth , Lempp Heidi
Published: January 2016

Background

Feet are often the first site of joint involvement in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and get progressively worse if unmanaged, leading to permanent disability and negatively impacting patients' quality of life. Podiatrists are specialists in the assessment, diagnosis and management of foot and ankle problems, however, RA outpatients often rely on referral from rheumatology clinicians to gain access to musculoskeletal podiatry services on the UK National Health Service (NHS). Therefore, the aim of this evaluation was to identify the foot health needs of rheumatoid arthritis patients and if they are being met by rheumatology clinicians.

Methods

A mixed methods approach was used: collecting qualitative data from patients and quantitative data from clinicians. Two focus groups were conducted with nine RA patients from a tertiary rheumatology outpatient clinic in the UK and the data were thematically analysed to inform a clinician survey. Thirteen rheumatology clinicians, from the same centre, completed the online survey. Resultant data were analysed to produce descriptive statistics.

Results

Patient focus group data generated four main themes: (1) need for foot health information, (2) feet ignored during routine consultations, (3) frequency of foot examination and (4) access to podiatry. Survey data highlighted that (i) 69–85 % of clinicians provided patients with foot health information sometimes, (ii) feet were examined in 47 % of routine consultations, (iii) 54 % of clinicians did not examine feet routinely because they are not included in the disease activity score with 28 joints (DAS‐28), (iv) 31 % of clinicians referred patients to podiatry upon RA diagnosis, (v) 0 % of clinicians referred patients to podiatry for periodic review, (vi) 54 % of clinicians believed patients will self‐report foot problems and (vii) 62 % of clinicians felt competent in foot examination.

Conclusions

RA patients' foot health needs were not being fully met by rheumatology clinicians. Patients want foot health information and easy access to podiatry services. Rheumatology outpatient consultations need to have a wider focus than the DAS‐28 and incorporate foot examination as standard. Clinicians need to ensure they have sufficient training and follow current national foot health guidance to provide optimal foot health care and outcomes for their RA patients.
Existence and higher arity iteration for total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex hyperbolic spaces
Authors: Khan Muhammad Aqeel Ahmad , Fukhar-ud-din Hafiz , Kalsoom Amna
Published: January 2016

This paper provides a fixed point theorem and iterative construction of a common fixed point for a general class of nonlinear mappings in the setup of uniformly convex hyperbolic spaces. We translate a multi-step iteration, essentially due to Chidume and Ofoedu (J. Math. Anal. Appl. 333:128-141, 2007) in such a setting for the approximation of common fixed points of a finite family of total asymptotically nonexpansive mappings. As a consequence, we establish strong and △-convergence results which extend and generalize various corresponding results established in the current literature.
Visual monitoring of civil infrastructure systems via camera-equipped Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): a review of related works
Authors: Ham Youngjib , Han Kevin K. , Lin Jacob J , Golparvar-Fard Mani
Published: January 2016

Over the past few years, the application of camera-equipped Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for visually monitoring construction and operation of buildings, bridges, and other types of civil infrastructure systems has exponentially grown. These platforms can frequently survey construction sites, monitor work-in-progress, create documents for safety, and inspect existing structures, particularly for hard-to-reach areas. The purpose of this paper is to provide a concise review of the most recent methods that streamline collection, analysis, visualization, and communication of the visual data captured from these platforms, with and without using Building Information Models (BIM) as a priori information. Specifically, the most relevant works from Civil Engineering, Computer Vision, and Robotics communities are presented and compared in terms of their potential to lead to automatic construction monitoring and civil infrastructure condition assessment.
Polymorphism rs2274911 of GPRC6A as a Novel Risk Factor for Testis Failure
Authors: De Toni Luca , Di Nisio Andrea , Speltra Elena , Rocca Maria Santa , Ghezzi Marco , Zuccarello Daniela , Turiaco Nunzio , Ferlin Alberto , Foresta Carlo
Published: January 2016

Context:

The G protein-coupled receptor GPRC6A is an emerging effector with multiple endocrine roles, including stimulation of T production from the testis. Recently, two men with an inactivating mutation (F464Y) of GPRC6A have been identified, and they showed primary testicular failure and deranged spermatogenesis. Furthermore, one of them also reported cryptorchidism at birth. In addition, a polymorphism (rs2274911, Pro91Ser) in GPRC6A is associated with prostate cancer, a typical androgen-sensitive cancer.

Objective:

To study the possible association between rs2274911 polymorphism and male fertility and/or cryptorchidism.

Design, Patients, Settings:

A total of 611 subjects, including 343 infertile patients, 197 normozoospermic controls, and 71 cryptorchid newborns, were retrospectively selected.

Methods:

Sequencing analysis for rs2274911 polymorphism and F464Y mutation, and serum levels of FSH, LH, and T were assessed. In vitro functional studies for rs2274911 and F464Y were also performed.

Results:

Homozygous subjects for the risk allele A of rs2274911 had a 4.60-fold increased risk of oligozoospermia and 3.52-fold increased risk of cryptorchidism. A significant trend for increased levels of LH in the GA and AA genotypes, compared with GG homozygotes, was detected in men with azoospermia/cryptozoospermia (P for trend = .027), further supporting an association with primary testicular failure. The mutation F464Y was found in one cryptorchid child (one in 71; 1.41%). Functional studies showed that the A allele of rs2274911 and the F464Y substitution were associated with lower exposition of the receptor on the cell membrane and a reduced downstream phosphorylation of ERK1/2 with respect to wild type.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that GPRC6A inactivation or sub-function contributes to reduced exposure to androgens, leading to cryptorchidism during fetal life and/or low sperm production in adulthood.
Contemporary Fascism’s de-Judified Homo Sacer
Authors: Nguyen Kim Hong
Published: January 2016

This article argues that representations in popular culture of the Holocaust of World War II are being used to reframe issues of racism in the United States. It critically examines three major discourse formations: contemporary Western thought on fascism, critical scholarship on the US collective memory of the Holocaust, and popular culture’s use of the Holocaust for racial instruction. The Americanization and de-Judification of the Holocaust shows how fascist racism is constructed through institutional discourses and practices and functions as an archetype for understanding race and racism in the United States. Exploring the emergence of Holocaust references in US public culture following Barack Obama’s election, this article proposes that the analogy gains its efficacy because the Americanization of the Holocaust articulates the relationship between institutional practices and race for racist whites.
Auto Bahnen / Free Ways
Authors: Kittler Friedrich
Published: January 2016

Taking issue with many official accounts, the essay traces the origins of the German autobahn back to the Battle of Verdun (1916). The military necessity to organize rigidly enforced, intersection-free two-way traffic becomes the model for the construction of the autobahn. Kittler further elaborates its martial character by connecting the movement of military equipment during war to the “tourist invasions” in peacetime.
A Short History of the Searchlight
Authors: Kittler Friedrich
Published: January 2016

The essay traces the intertwined martial and theatrical histories of searchlights, floodlights, stage lamps, and laterna magica. Inspired in part by Paul Virilio’s emphasis on the close link between war and illumination, the argument centers on the ability of the searchlight to pinpoint objects, isolate them from their surroundings, and thus target them for destruction.
Gait kinetics of above- and below-branch quadrupedal locomotion in lemurid primates
Authors: Granatosky Michael C. , Tripp Cameron H. , Schmitt Daniel
Published: January 2016

For primates and other mammals moving on relatively thin branches, the ability to effectively adopt both above- and below-branch locomotion is seen as critical for successful arboreal locomotion, and has been considered an important step prior to the evolution of specialized suspensory locomotion within our Order. Yet, little information exists on the ways in which limb mechanics change when animals shift from above- to below-branch quadrupedal locomotion. This study tested the hypothesis that vertical force magnitude and distribution do not vary between locomotor modes, but that the propulsive and braking roles of the forelimb change when animals shift from above- to below-branch quadrupedal locomotion. We collected kinetic data on two lemur species (Varecia variegata and Lemur catta) walking above and below an instrumented arboreal runway. Values for peak vertical, braking and propulsive forces as well as horizontal impulses were collected for each limb. When walking below branch, both species demonstrated a significant shift in limb kinetics compared with above-branch movement. The forelimb became both the primary weight-bearing limb and propulsive organ, while the hindlimb reduced its weight-bearing role and became the primary braking limb. This shift in force distribution represents a shift toward mechanics associated with bimanual suspensory locomotion, a locomotor mode unusual to primates and central to human evolution. The ability to make this change is not accompanied by significant anatomical changes, and thus likely represents an underlying mechanical flexibility present in most primates.
Application of near Infrared Spectroscopy to Detect Mould Contamination in Tobacco
Authors: Yang Lei , Yang Qian-Xu , Yang Shi-Hua , Wang Jia-Jun , Hou Ying , Wang Bao-Xing , Tang Qiang , Pan Xue-Jun
Published: January 2016

Mould infection is a significant postharvest issue for processors of tobacco, which can cause direct product loss and value reduction of product as well as serious economic losses. However, mould mostly is undetectable at the early stages using traditional sorting techniques. In this study, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy was used to detect mould infection in flue-cured tobacco samples. Based on visual analysis grading a good to bad (GBA) algorithm for feature selection of NIR spectra and linear discriminant analysis routines were applied to detect mould contamination. The optimal wavelengths of NIR spectra included bands at 1066 nm, 1130 nm, 1832 nm and 1474 nm which were applied to establish a classification model which achieved a low classification error rate (2.92% with a Wilks's λ of 0.216 at P < 0.001). The classification accuracies of unmould and mould were 94.6% and 96.9%, respectively (100.0% for slight mould, 100.0% for low mould, 95.0% for medium mould and 92.9% for high mould). A sorting system was developed based on multispectral NIR bands. This showed rapid, accurate and effective detection, and identification of mould-contaminated tobacco was possible at early stages of mould contamination, making it possible to remove mould-contaminated tobacco found in tobacco lots.
Post-operative rehabilitation and nutrition in osteoarthritis
Authors: Musumeci Giuseppe , Mobasheri Ali , Trovato Francesca Maria , Szychlinska Marta Anna , Imbesi Rosa , Castrogiovanni Paola
Published: January 2016

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative process involving the progressive loss of articular cartilage, synovial inflammation and structural changes in subchondral bone that lead to loss of synovial joint structural features and functionality of articular cartilage. OA represents one of the most common causes of physical disability in the world. Different OA treatments are usually considered in relation to the stage of the disease. In the early stages, it is possible to recommend physical activity programs that can maintain joint health and keep the patient mobile, as recommended by OA Research Society International (OARSI) and European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR). In the most severe and advanced cases of OA, surgical intervention is necessary. After, in early postoperative stages, it is essential to include a rehabilitation exercise program in order to restore the full function of the involved joint. Physical therapy is crucial for the success of any surgical procedure and can promote recovery of muscle strength, range of motion, coordinated walking, proprioception and mitigate joint pain. Furthermore, after discharge from the hospital, patients should continue the rehabilitation exercise program at home associated to an appropriate diet. In this review, we analyze manuscripts from the most recent literature and provide a balanced and comprehensive overview of the latest developments on the effect of physical exercise on postoperative rehabilitation in OA. The literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar, using the keywords ‘osteoarthritis’, ‘rehabilitation’, ‘exercise’ and ‘nutrition’. The available data suggest that physical exercise is an effective, economical and accessible to everyone practice, and it is one of the most important components of postoperative rehabilitation for OA.
Distribution and Numbers of Pygmies in Central African Forests
Authors: Olivero Jesús , Fa Julia E. , Farfán Miguel A. , Lewis Jerome , Hewlett Barry , Breuer Thomas , Carpaneto Giuseppe M. , Fernández María , Germi Francesco , Hattori Shiho , Head Josephine , Ichikawa Mitsuo , Kitanaishi Koichi , Knights Jessica , Matsuura Naoki , Migliano Andrea , Nese Barbara , Noss Andrew , Ekoumou Dieudonné Ongbwa , Paulin Pascale , Real Raimundo , Riddell Mike , Stevenson Edward G. J. , Toda Mikako , Vargas J. Mario , Yasuoka Hirokazu , Nasi Robert
Published: January 2016

Pygmy populations occupy a vast territory extending west-to-east along the central African belt from the Congo Basin to Lake Victoria. However, their numbers and actual distribution is not known precisely. Here, we undertake this task by using locational data and population sizes for an unprecedented number of known Pygmy camps and settlements (n= 654) in five of the nine countries where currently distributed. With these data we develop spatial distribution models based on the favourability function, which distinguish areas with favourable environmental conditions from those less suitable for Pygmy presence. Highly favourable areas were significantly explained by presence of tropical forests, and by lower human pressure variables. For documented Pygmy settlements, we use the relationship between observed population sizes and predicted favourability values to estimate the total Pygmy population throughout Central Africa. We estimate that around 920,000 Pygmies (over 60% in DRC) is possible within favourable forest areas in Central Africa. We argue that fragmentation of the existing Pygmy populations, alongside pressure from extractive industries and sometimes conflict with conservation areas, endanger their future. There is an urgent need to inform policies that can mitigate against future external threats to these indigenous peoples’ culture and lifestyles.
事例研究特集号——はじめに 日本における事例研究:2つの方法,2つの世界観 Part2
Authors: 岩壁　茂 Iwakabe
Published: January 2016

本特集の目的は大きく異なる事例研究のスタイルを提示し,それらの方法的特徴を比較し,最終的にはそれぞれの強みを組み合わせた事例研究の方法を探究することであった。2編の事例論文は,日本における臨床実践と事例研究の幅を実感できる内容であった。またそれに続く国内外からの4編のコメント,および事例論文著者の回答による対話が起こり,事例研究を通した臨床的学びの場を作り出した。その対話を通して,それぞれの事例研究の特徴がさらに浮かび上がってきた。ここでは,簡潔に2つの事例論文とコメントを振り返り,事例研究の方法論的課題,そして文化の問題について検討したい。
Angiogenic Effect of Bioactive Borate Glass Microfibers and Beads in the Hairless Mouse
Authors: Watters Richard J. , Brown Roger F. , Day Delbert E.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this project was to investigate the angiogenic mechanism of bioactive borate glass for soft tissue repair in a ‘hairless’ SKH1 mouse model. Subcutaneous microvascular responses to bioactive glass microfibers (45S5, 13-93B3, and 13-93B3Cu) and bioactive glass beads (13-93, 13-93B3, and 13-93B3Cu) were assessed via: noninvasive imaging of skin microvasculature; histomorphometry of microvascular densities; and quantitative PCR measurements of mRNA expression of VEGF and FGF-2 cytokines. Live imaging via dorsal skin windows showed the formation at twoweeks of a halo-like structure infused with microvessels surrounding implanted boratebased 13-93B3 and 13-93B3Cu glass beads, a response not observed with silicate-based 13-93 glass beads. Quantitative histomorphometry of tissues implanted with plugs of 45S5, 13-93B3, and 13-93B3Cu glass microfibers revealed microvascular densities that were 1.6-, 2.3-, and 2.7-times higher, respectively, than the sham control valueswhereas 13-93, 13-93B3, and 13-93B3Cu glass beads caused the microvascular density to increase 1.3-, 1.6-, and 2.5-fold, respectively, relative to sham controls. Quantitative PCR measurements indicate a marginally significant increased expression of VEGF mRNA in tissues with 13-93B3Cu glass beads, an outcome that supported the hypothesis that copper-doped borate glass could promote VEGF expression followed by angiogenesis for enhanced wound healing.
Sub-micron sized saccharide fibres via electrospinning
Authors: Lepe Pablo G. T. , Tucker Nick , Simmons Lyall , Watson Andrew J. A. , Fairbanks Antony J. , Staiger Mark P.
Published: January 2016

In this work, the production of continuous submicron diameter saccharide fibres is shown to be possible using the electrospinning process. The mechanism for the formation of electrospun polymer fibres is usually attributed to the physical entanglement of long molecular chains. The ability to electrospin continuous fibre from a low molecular weight saccharides was an unexpected phenomenon. The formation of sub-micron diameter “sugar syrup” fibres was observed in situ using highspeed video. The trajectory of the electrospun saccharide fibre was observed to follow that typical of electrospun polymers. Based on initial food grade glucose syrup tests, various solutions based on combinations of syrup components, i.e. mono-, di- and tri-saccharides, were investigated to map out materials and electrospinning conditions thatwould lead to the formation of fibre. Thiswork demonstrated that sucrose exhibits the highest propensity for fibre formation during electrospinning amongst the various types of saccharide solutions studied. The possibility of electrospinning low molecular weight saccharides into sub-micron fibres has implications for the electrospinability of supramolecular polymers and other biomaterials.
Does Mefloquine (Lariam®) Therapy Improve the Prognosis of Human JC Polyomavirus-Induced Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy?
Authors: Kalvatchev Zlatko N. , Tsekov Iliya T.
Published: January 2016

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is ademyelinating disease caused by infection with Polyomavirus hominis 2, popularly known as JC virus (JCV). The disease is usually fatal as it develops due to the progressive destruction of oligodendrocytes in multiple brain foci. Several substances that show effect against JCV have been investigated. However, only the antimalarial drug mefloquine has been reported to significantly influence the viral replication both in vitro and following in vivo therapy with good penetration and distribution of the drug at efficacious concentrations into the central nervous system (CNS). The current material presents some of the available published data, suggesting that the activity of mefloquine against JCV be considered for treatment of patients with PML.