bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Immediate Postoperative Portable Radiographs on Reoperation in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Moussa Mohamed E. , Malchau Henrik , Freiberg Andrew A. , Kwon Young-Min
Published: September 2014

Cost-containment strategies are of increasing importance in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Obtaining immediate postoperative radiographs following primary TKA is common practice, but their usefulness is controversial. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of immediate postoperative radiographs on reoperation within 60 days, assess film quality, and determine the cost associated with these radiographs. Using a billing registry at the authors’ institution, the number of TKAs performed from 2000 to 2011 was determined. Of those, the authors determined which had undergone reoperation within 60 days. They evaluated those who had immediate postoperative radiographs following their primary TKA, and determined those who had been reoperated on as a result of information obtained from these radiographs. Of 6603 patients who underwent primary TKA from 2000 to 2011, 136 (2%) underwent reoperation within the first 60 days. The causes leading to reoperation were arthrofibrosis, infection, wound-healing complications, and hematoma. Of the 136 who underwent reoperation, 76 had immediate postoperative radiographs. None of them underwent reoperation as a result of findings noted in the radiographs. Of the radiographs reviewed, only 43% were deemed adequate by predetermined criteria. The results of the current study demonstrate that these radiographs do not affect the decision for reoperations that occur within 60 days of the index procedure. Although there may be a benefit to immediate postoperative radiographs in selected clinical situations, the decision for routine use needs to be weighed in light of significant cost and limited clinical usefulness.
Early Outcomes of Proximal Humerus Fracture Fixation With Locking Plate and Intramedullary Fibular Strut Graft
Authors: Tan Edwin , Lie Denny , Wong M. K.
Published: September 2014

Proximal humerus fractures are commonly encountered in elderly patients. Surgical treatment demonstrates high complication rates, including varus construct collapse and screw cutout. In this study, the authors evaluate the clinical outcome of locking plate fixation with intramedullary fibular strut graft augmentation as a primary surgical treatment in the prevention of early collapse and screw cutout. A total of 9 patients were evaluated. Surgery was performed for displaced proximal humerus fractures between April and December 2011. Patients were either class 2, 3, or 4, according to Neer classification. Mean patient age was 75.4 years. Preoperative and immediate, 6-week, and 3-month postoperative radiographs were evaluated. Head-shaft angles were measured to assess for varus collapse and displacement. Range of motion, complication rates, and functional recovery were also evaluated. Patients underwent open reduction and internal fixation with placement of an intramedullary fibular strut graft. Fixation was achieved with a Philos plate (Synthes, Oberdorf, Switzerland). Reduction and fixation were evaluated with radiographs. Passive exercises and range of motion were allowed immediately postoperatively, and all patients achieved active abduction and forward flexion 6 weeks postoperatively. Shoulder radiographs taken 12 weeks postoperatively revealed no loss of reduction or screw cutout. The introduction of the locking plate has improved outcomes. The addition of an intramedullary strut graft has shown improved preliminary results. Maintained reduction was observed in all 9 patients in the early postoperative period, and good functional motion was achieved. No incidence of screw cutout was recorded.
Reproductive biology of dolphinfish, Coryphaena hippurus (Actinopterygii: Coryphaenidae), in Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, Brazil
Authors: Lira Dos Santos Andrea Carla , Marielle Coutinho Isa , De Lima Viana Danielle , Gomes Do Rego Mariana , Siqueira Lima Branco Ilka , Hissa Vieira Hazin Fabio , Vasconcelos De Oliveira Paulo Guilherme
Published: September 2014

In order to elucidate the main aspects related to dolphinfish reproduction around Saint Peter and Saint Paul Archipelago, 862 individuals caught in that area by commercial handline fishing were examined between 2007 and 2011. From those specimens, it was possible to assess the sex in 782 specimens (271 males and 511 females) and the levels of gonadal maturation in 536 of them (175 males and 361 females). The fork length (FL) of the examined specimens varied between 27 and 150 cm. Sex ratio found was 1.0 male: 1.9 females, but the difference was not statistically significant in April (χ2=0.08), August (χ2=0.82) and October (χ2=3.63). However, by size interval, sex ratio was 1.0 male: 1.0 female for FL between 120 and 130 cm. The gonadal index showed the highest values in February for males and in April for females. Most spawning-capable specimens were found in February (males 36.4%) and in May (females 42.2%). The length of size-at-50%-maturity (L50) was estimated at 70.66 cm FL for males and 68.60 cm FL for females. The results suggest that the period of highest reproductive activity occurs between April and June.
Information Security Innovation
Authors: Eloff Jan H. P. , Eloff Mariki M. , Bella Madeleine A. Bihina , Isherwood Donovan , Dlamini Moses T. , Ngassam Ernest Ketcha
Published: September 2014

The increasing demand for online and real-time interaction with IT infrastructures by end users is facilitated by the proliferation of user-centric devices such as laptops, iPods, iPads, and smartphones. This trend is furthermore propounded by the plethora of apps downloadable to end user devices mostly within mobile-cum-cloud environments. It is clear that there are many evidences of innovation with regard to end user devices and apps. Unfortunately, little, if any, information security innovation took place over the past number of years with regard to the consumption of security services by end users. This creates the need for innovative security solutions that are human-centric and flexible. This chapter presents a framework for consuming loosely coupled (but interoperable) cloud-based security services by a variety of end users in an efficient and flexible manner using their mobile devices.
Blended Learning and Digital Curation
Authors: Ostashewski Nathaniel , Martin Romana , Brennan Andrew
Published: September 2014

This chapter presents a case of successful integration of digital curation in a repeating series of blended classroom activities. Digital curation, in education, can be understood as the collection, organization, interpretation, summary, and sharing of online resources by learners on a topic of inquiry. This research reports on a blended digital curation learning design integrated into a third-year university course. A digital curation activity sequence development process and the classroom activity structure form the basis of the educational implementation presented here. In theory, digital curation activities can support the sharing of collected resources between learners. In practice, digital curation learning activities in higher education can also support blended and flipped classroom engagement models while providing opportunities for the development of critical thinking skills. The chapter describes the activities, the learning design, and the outcomes of a digital curation activity sequence. This provides other educators with a learning design roadmap for engaging students in pre-lecture activities or blended learning that adds value to classroom lectures.
Social Networks Analysis and Participation in Learning Environments to Digital Inclusion Based on Large-Scale Distance Education
Authors: Socorro da Silva Aleksandra do , Rossy de Brito Silvana , Martins Dalton Lopes , Vijaykumar Nandamudi Lankalapalli , Jorge da Rocha Cláudio Alex , Costa João Crisóstomo Weyl Albuquerque , Francês Carlos Renato Lisboa
Published: September 2014

Evaluating and monitoring large-scale distance learning programs require different techniques, systems, and analysis methods. This work presents challenges in evaluating and monitoring digital inclusion training programs, considering the aspects inherent in large-scale distance training, and reports an approach based on network and distance learning. The paper has the following objectives: (i) apply algorithms to extract indicators from interaction networks, in a real scenario and consolidated training based on distance learning; (ii) apply algorithms to correlate interaction indicators with other indicators related to the use and participation in learning environments; and (iii) discuss the relevance of the obtained indicators to promote feedback with information critical to the success of a large-scale distance training program.
Detection of Misconceptions and Misleading Questions by Using Quantitative Diagnostic Assessment
Authors: Weng Martin M. , Chang Wen-Chih , Yen Neil Y. , Shih Timothy K. , Hsu Hui-Huang
Published: September 2014

Researches into E-Learning pay emphasis on how the technology is applied for comprehensive learning support in various perspectives. Lots of advantages are involved while performing the E-Learning. For example, timely contents are applicable to be delivered via the Internet, and in a similar manner, instant feedback which identifies the learning performance would be obtained through an online assessment system. In this article, a diagnostic approach for learning performance evaluation of student is proposed. Two primary issues are concentrated based on the analysis of quantitative assessment results. First the authors identify the misconceptions on specific subject(s) that students have learned and provide remedial suggestions about their learning status to students. Second, because questions may have several incorrect information to students, hence the authors approach provide suggested revisions to instructors. The proposed approach employs the Rule-Space model and the Student-Problem chart and is implemented in an online assessment system to obtain corresponding data (e.g., learning behavior) and performance (e.g., learning status). The feasibility is demonstrated through an empirical study (i.e., a series of pre-post tests) which was conducted in a domain-specific course (i.e., Fundamental of Information Technology) with around 450 students in a calendar year.
An e-Learning Collaborative Filtering Approach to Suggest Problems to Solve in Programming Online Judges
Authors: Toledo Raciel Yera , Mota Yailé Caballero
Published: September 2014

The paper proposes a recommender system approach to cover online judge's domains. Online judges are e-learning tools that support the automatic evaluation of programming tasks done by individual users, and for this reason they are usually used for training students in programming contest and for supporting basic programming teachings. The proposal pretends to suggest problems assuming that a user must try to solve those problems already successfully solved by similar users. With this goal, the authors adopt the traditional collaborative filtering method with a new similarity measure adapted to the current domain, and the authors propose several transformations in the user-problem matrix to incorporate specific online judge's information. The authors evaluate the effect of the matrix configurations using Precision and Recall metrics, getting better results comparing with the authors method without transformations and with a representative state-of-art approach. Finally, the authors outline possible extensions to the current work.
Development and Evaluation of a Web 2.0-Based Ubiquitous Learning Platform for Schoolyard Plant Identification
Authors: Hwang Gwo-Haur , Chu Hui-Chun , Chen Beyin , Cheng Zheng Shan
Published: September 2014

The rapid progress of wireless communication, sensing, and mobile technologies has enabled students to learn in an environment that combines learning resources from both the real world and the digital world. It can be viewed as a new learning style which has been called context-aware ubiquitous learning. Most context-aware ubiquitous learning systems employ expensive sensing technologies, such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), to detect the real-world learning behaviors of students and to provide personalized learning guidance accordingly. In this paper, the authors use QR (Quick Response) code, a low cost technology that is available on smart phones for detecting students' real-world learning status. Moreover, Web 2.0 technology is employed to enable students to collaboratively build a learning materials database. An experiment was conducted to investigate the relationships between the system quality, personal factors, learning motivation, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use, learning attitude, and behavioral intention of the students. In addition, from the interviews, it was found that most of the students felt interested in learning with the system and considered it as a helpful learning tool.
Advanced Electroencephalogram Processing
Authors: Golomolzina Diana Rashidovna , Gorodnichev Maxim Alexandrovich , Levin Evgeny Andreevich , Savostyanov Alexander Nikolaevich , Yablokova Ekaterina Pavlovna , Tsai Arthur C. , Zaleshin Mikhail Sergeevich , Budakova Anna Vasil'evna , Saprygin Alexander Evgenyevich , Remnev Mikhail Anatolyevich , Smirnov Nikolay Vladimirovich
Published: September 2014

The study of electroencephalography (EEG) data can involve independent component analysis and further clustering of the components according to relation of the components to certain processes in a brain or to external sources of electricity such as muscular motion impulses, electrical fields inducted by power mains, electrostatic discharges, etc. At present, known methods for clustering of components are costly because require additional measurements with magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI), for example, or have accuracy restrictions if only EEG data is analyzed. A new method and algorithm for automatic clustering of physiologically similar but statistically independent EEG components is described in this paper. Developed clustering algorithm has been compared with algorithms implemented in the EEGLab toolbox. The paper contains results of algorithms testing on real EEG data obtained under two experimental tasks: voluntary movement control under conditions of stop-signal paradigm and syntactical error recognition in written sentences. The experimental evaluation demonstrated more than 90% correspondence between the results of automatic clustering and clustering made by an expert physiologist.
Critical Challenges for Adopting Personalized Medicine System in Healthcare Management
Authors: Misra Subhas Chandra , Bisui Sandip
Published: September 2014

Personalized Medicine is an emerging approach in today's healthcare management. It bears a very strong potential to consolidate modern e-health systems fundamentally. Scientists have already discovered some of the personalized drugs that can shift the whole medicare process into a new dimension. However, bringing the change in healthcare management is an easy task. There are several critical challenges in the implementation of Personalized Medicine systems. This paper aims at identifying some of these critical challenges through a survey with medical doctors and patients. Challenges involved in implementing Personalized Medicine are listed. A questionnaire was distributed amongst a set of medical doctors, medical researchers, practitioners in pharmaceutical industries, regulatory board members, and a larger section of patients. The response data collected thereby were analysed statistically by using t-test. Summary of the descriptive statistical results of the responses received from medical doctors and patients are presented in tabular form. Based upon the statistical analysis, an attempt has been made in the paper to make a ranking of the challenges. A comparison of the perspectives of the doctors and patients has been made by using bar diagrams. The observations have been discussed in detail and some specific conclusions have been made. To the best of the author's knowledge and belief, this is the first academic paper in which an attempt has been made to suggest the crucial challenges for the implementation of Personalized Medicine. The study shows that both the medical doctors and patients perceive that genomic analysis of all the individuals is the most critical challenge.
Drilling Of Tio2 and Zns Filled Gfrp Composites: A Taguchi Approach
Authors: V. Arun K. , D. Sujay Kumar , C. Murugesh M.
Published: September 2014

The main affecting parameter for Delamination of the composites and in turn the failure of composites is the Thrust force. In the present work an attempt has been made in order to investigate the Thrust force generated during drilling of the TiO2 and ZnS filled Glass Fabric Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites (GFRP). The volume fractions in the matrix were chosen as 1, 2 and3%. A plan of experiments, based on the techniques of Taguchi, was performed to acquire data in a controlled way. An L27 orthogonal array and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were employed to investigate the influence of process parameters on the drilling of these composites. Drilling has been conducted on a radial drilling machine. Speed of drilling (S), volume fractions (VF) and drill tool diameter (D) were considered as the varying parameters with three levels. Thrust force has been considered as the output parameter and is been measured in each combination of parameters chosen. Results reveal that, the addition of filler will increase the thrust force developed during drilling. As per ANOVA values, drill tool diameter contributes more towards generation of thrust, followed by speed of drilling. Main Effect plots shows that, contribution of speed towards thrust generation is only upto a certain level of increase in speed.
Importance of Web Based Tools for Promotion of Movies
Authors: Sannapu Suresh , Parihar Akshat Singh , Kandwal Gaurav , Kakkar Karan
Published: September 2014

This paper gives a description of the empirical study investigating the impact of promotions using Web based tools by Indian Movie production houses. Evolution of movie promotion starting with use of traditional methods for the first movie to the near dependence on social media to promote the latest movies produced in India has been chronologically presented. Critical role of web based tools and their synchronization with other media tools in contemporary movie promotion has also been elaborated. As Indian film industry is witnessing impeccable advancements in areas like technology and marketing digitalization, this research shows the use of online tools for attracting consumers. The key research objective is to find out the ability of the production houses to attain maximum customer attraction through various online tools like Facebook, Twitter, Blogs and YouTube. Data has been collected both from primary and secondary sources. Regression analysis has been used to depict the relationship between likes, comments and shares with the number of campaigns. Given the huge contribution of movies to Indian economy, ever increasing competition in this industry and increasing popularity of Web based tools; this study aims to benefit multiple stakeholders including movie producers, individual investors and all other entities related to movie making business such as music companies, distributors, exhibitors and single screen owners.
STAT3 Activation in Th17 and Th22 Cells Controls IL-22–Mediated Epithelial Host Defense during Infectious Colitis
Authors: Backert Ingo , Koralov Sergei B. , Wirtz Stefan , Kitowski Vera , Billmeier Ulrike , Martini Eva , Hofmann Katharina , Hildner Kai , Wittkopf Nadine , Brecht Katrin , Waldner Maximilian , Rajewsky Klaus , Neurath Markus F. , Becker Christoph , Neufert Clemens
Published: September 2014

The Citrobacter rodentium model mimics the pathogenesis of infectious colitis and requires sequential contributions from different immune cell populations, including innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and CD4+ lymphocytes. In this study, we addressed the role of STAT3 activation in CD4+ cells during host defense in mice against C. rodentium. In mice with defective STAT3 in CD4+ cells (Stat3ΔCD4), the course of infection was unchanged during the innate lymphoid cell–dependent early phase, but significantly altered during the lymphocyte-dependent later phase. Stat3ΔCD4 mice exhibited intestinal epithelial barrier defects, including downregulation of antimicrobial peptides, increased systemic distribution of bacteria, and prolonged reduction in the overall burden of C. rodentium infection. Immunomonitoring of lamina propria cells revealed loss of virtually all IL-22–producing CD4+ lymphocytes, suggesting that STAT3 activation was required for IL-22 production not only in Th17 cells, but also in Th22 cells. Notably, the defective host defense against C. rodentium in Stat3∆CD4 mice could be fully restored by specific overexpression of IL-22 through a minicircle vector–based technology. Moreover, expression of a constitutive active STAT3 in CD4+ cells shaped strong intestinal epithelial barrier function in vitro and in vivo through IL-22, and it promoted protection from enteropathogenic bacteria. Thus, our work indicates a critical role of STAT3 activation in Th17 and Th22 cells for control of the IL-22–mediated host defense, and strategies expanding STAT3-activated CD4+ lymphocytes may be considered as future therapeutic options for improving intestinal barrier function in infectious colitis.
Negative Self-Regulation of TLR9 Signaling by Its N-Terminal Proteolytic Cleavage Product
Authors: Lee Sungwook , Kang Dongju , Ra Eun A. , Lee Taeyun A. , Ploegh Hidde L. , Park Boyoun
Published: September 2014

TLR signaling is essential to innate immunity against microbial invaders and must be tightly controlled. We have previously shown that TLR9 undergoes proteolytic cleavage processing by lysosomal proteases to generate two distinct fragments. The C-terminal cleavage product plays a critical role in activating TLR9 signaling; however, the precise role of the N-terminal fragment, which remains in lysosomes, in the TLR9 response is still unclear. In this article, we report that the N-terminal cleavage product negatively regulates TLR9 signaling. Notably, the N-terminal fragment promotes the aspartic protease-mediated degradation of the C-terminal fragment in endolysosomes. Furthermore, the N-terminal TLR9 fragment physically interacts with the C-terminal product, thereby inhibiting the formation of homodimers of the C-terminal fragment; this suggests that the monomeric C-terminal product is more susceptible to attack by aspartic proteases. Together, these results suggest that the N-terminal TLR9 proteolytic cleavage product is a negative self-regulator that prevents excessive TLR9 signaling activity.
A Major Deletion in the Vκ–Jκ Intervening Region Results in Hyperelevated Transcription of Proximal Vκ Genes and a Severely Restricted Repertoire
Authors: Xiang Yougui , Park Sung-Kyun , Garrard William T.
Published: September 2014

Our previous studies have shown that DNase I hypersensitive sites 1 and 2 (HS1-2) and HS3-6 within the mouse Vκ–Jκ intervening region are essential for controlling locus contraction and creating a diverse Ab repertoire. In this article, we demonstrate that a 6.3-kb deletion encompassing HS1-6 altogether not only leads to the predictable sums of these phenotypes, but also results in a novel hyperelevation of transcription of proximal Vκ genes, in both pre-B and splenic B cells. These findings reveal previously unrecognized additional functions for cis-elements within the Vκ–Jκ intervening region, namely, prevention of the production of massive levels of noncoding RNA species by silencing transcription of germline proximal Vκ genes in both developing and mature B cells.
Testing a longitudinal integrated self-efficacy and self-determination theory model for physical activity post-cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Sweet Shane N. , Fortier Michelle S. , Strachan Shaelyn M. , Blanchard Chris M. , Boulay Pierre
Published: September 2014

Self-determination theory and self-efficacy theory are prominent theories in the physical activity literature, and studies have begun integrating their concepts. Sweet, Fortier, Strachan and Blanchard (2012) have integrated these two theories in a cross-sectional study. Therefore, this study sought to test a longitudinal integrated model to predict physical activity at the end of a 4-month cardiac rehabilitation program based on theory, research and Sweet et al.’s cross-sectional model. Participants from two cardiac rehabilitation programs (N=109) answered validated self-report questionnaires at baseline, two and four months. Data were analyzed using Amos to assess the path analysis and model fit. Prior to integration, perceived competence and self-efficacy were combined, and labeled as confidence. After controlling for 2-month physical activity and cardiac rehabilitation site, no motivational variables significantly predicted residual change in 4-month physical activity. Although confidence at two months did not predict residual change in 4-month physical activity, it had a strong positive relationship with 2-month physical activity (β=0.30, P<0.001). The overall model retained good fit indices. In conclusion, results diverged from theoretical predictions of physical activity, but self-determination and self-efficacy theory were still partially supported. Because the model had good fit, this study demonstrated that theoretical integration is feasible.
Do health-related feared possible selves motivate healthy eating?
Authors: Noureddine Samar , Metzger Bonnie
Published: September 2014

The question of what motivates individuals to assume healthy eating habits remains unanswered. The purpose of this descriptive survey is to explore health-related feared possible selves in relation to dietary beliefs and behavior in adults. A convenience sample of 74 middle-aged employees of a health maintenance organization completed self-administered questionnaires. Health-related feared selves, current health perception, knowledge of diet-health association, dietary self-efficacy, dietary intention and intake were measured. Health-related fears were the most frequently reported feared selves, but very few of those represented illnesses and none were related to dietary intake. The number of health and body weight related fears was significantly associated with lower dietary self-efficacy and weaker intention to eat in a healthy manner. Multivariate analysis showed self-efficacy to be the only significant predictor of dietary intention. These adults may not have perceived being at risk for diet-associated illnesses, and so their feared selves did not motivate them to eat in a healthy manner. Research on the effect of hoped for health related possible selves and the perceived effectiveness of diet in reducing health risk are recommended.
Smoke and mirrors: the perceived benefits of continued tobacco use among current smokers
Authors: Klein Hugh , Sterk Claire E. , Elifson Kirk W.
Published: September 2014

Despite 50+ years of public health efforts to reduce smoking rates in the United States, approximately one-fifth of the adults living in this country continue to smoke cigarettes. Previous studies have examined smokers’ risk perceptions of cigarette smoking, as well as the perceived benefits of quitting smoking. Less research has focused on the perceived benefits of smoking among current cigarette smokers. The latter is the main focus of the present paper. Questionnaire-based interviews were conducted with a community-based sample of 485 adult current cigarette smokers recruited from the Atlanta, Georgia, metropolitan area between 2004 and 2007. Active and passive recruiting approaches were used, along with a targeted sampling strategy. Results revealed that most current cigarette smokers perceive themselves to experience benefits as a result of their cigarette use, including (among others) increased relaxation, diminished nervousness in social situations, enjoyment of the taste of cigarettes when smoking, and greater enjoyment of parties when smoking. Perceiving benefits from cigarette smoking was associated with a variety of tobacco use measures, such as smoking more cigarettes, an increased likelihood of chain smoking, and overall negative attitude toward quitting smoking, among others. Several factors were associated with the extent to which smokers perceived themselves to benefit from their tobacco use, including education attainment, the age of first purchasing cigarettes, the proportion of friends who smoked, hiding smoking from others, being internally-oriented regarding locus of control, and self-esteem.
Childhood overweight dependence on mother-child relationship
Authors: Brødsgaard Anne , Wagner Lis , Poulsen Ingrid
Published: September 2014

The causes of childhood overweight are numerous and inter-related. The mother-child relationship is of great significance for the child’s health. Previous studies have found patterns of dysfunctional interaction in families with obese children. Therefore, development of childhood overweight could be due to the mother-child relationship. The aim of this study was to investigate how, and to what degree, the mother-child relationship, assessed by the mothers, was related to overweight among children aged seven to nine years. The study was a cross sectional case-controlled one. It included 111 overweight and 149 non-overweight seven to nine year old children and their mothers. Weight status was determined according to the International Obesity Task Force reference for children Body Mass Index, age and gender adjusted. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to categorize the mother-child relationship as: complementary, asymmetrical, symmetrical or symbiotic prototypes. There was no difference in mother-child relationships – characterized by the prototypes – between the overweight and non-overweight mother-child pairs. Therefore, we conclude that the mother-child relationship has no bearing on the child’s weight status according to the prototypes. It is suggested that it is more the culture, or the universal phenomenon of expressing love through food, than the mother-child relationship, which influences the development of childhood overweight, or that the mothers are not capable of assess the true attachment style between themselves and their children.
A preliminary study to assess the construct validity of a cultural intelligence measure on a South African sample
Authors: Mahembe Bright , Engelbrecht Amos S.
Published: September 2014

Orientation: Cultural intelligence is an essential social competence for effective individual interaction in a cross-cultural context. The cultural intelligence scale (CQS) is used extensively for assessing cultural intelligence; nevertheless, its reliability and validity on a South African sample are yet to be ascertained.Research purpose: The purpose of the current study was to assess the construct validity of the CQS on a South African sample. The results of the psychometric assessment offer some important insights into the factor structure of the cultural intelligence construct.Motivation for the study: The current study sought to provide some practical validity confirmation of the CQS for the effective management of cultural diversity in the South African context.Research approach, design and method: The CQS was administered on a non-probability sample of 229 young adults in South Africa. Item analysis was performed to ascertain reliability. Exploratory factor analysis was used to test the unidimensionality of CQS subscales. The first-order and second-order factor structures underlying contemporary models of cultural intelligence were tested using confirmatory factor analysis.Main findings: Results indicated that the CQS is a reliable and valid measure of cultural intelligence as evidenced by the high internal consistency coefficients in all the subscales. Good construct validity for both the first-order and second-order models was obtained via confirmatory factor analysis.Practical/managerial implications: The study finds good measurement properties of the CQS in a South African context. The CQS can be confidently used for applications such as selecting, training and developing a more culturally competent workforce.Contribution: The study extends the body of knowledge on the reliability and construct validity of the CQS in the South African milieu. It further indicates that cultural intelligence can be represented by a general cultural intelligence factor that drives more specific dimensions of cultural intelligence.
The global impact of the transport sectors on atmospheric aerosol in 2030 – Part 1: Land transport and shipping
Authors: Righi M. , Hendricks J. , Sausen R.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Using the EMAC global climate-chemistry model coupled to the aerosol module MADE, we simulate the impact of land transport and shipping emissions on global atmospheric aerosol and climate in 2030. Future emissions of short-lived gas and aerosol species follow the four Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) designed in support of the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. We compare the resulting 2030 land-transport- and shipping-induced aerosol concentrations to the ones obtained for the year 2000 in a previous study with the same model configuration. The simulations suggest that black carbon and aerosol nitrate are the most relevant pollutants from land transport in 2000 and 2030, but their impacts are characterized by very strong regional variations during this time period. Europe and North America experience a decrease in the land-transport-induced particle pollution, although in these regions this sector remains the dominant source of surface-level pollution in 2030 under all RCPs. In Southeast Asia, on the other hand, a significant increase is simulated, but in this region the surface-level pollution is still controlled by other sources than land transport. Shipping-induced air pollution is mostly due to aerosol sulfate and nitrate, which show opposite trends towards 2030. Sulfate is strongly reduced as a consequence of sulfur reduction policies in ship-fuels in force since 2010, while nitrate tends to increase due to the excess of ammonia following the reduction in ammonium-sulfate. The aerosol-induced climate impact of both sectors is dominated by aerosol-cloud effects and is projected to decrease between 2000 and 2030, nevertheless still contributing a significant radiative forcing to the Earth's radiation budget.
Alternative configurations of quantile regression for estimating predictive uncertainty in water level forecasts for the upper Severn River: a comparison
Authors: López López P. , Verkade J. S. , Weerts A. H. , Solomatine D. P.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The present study comprises an intercomparison of different configurations of a statistical post-processor that is used to estimate predictive hydrological uncertainty. It builds on earlier work by Weerts, Winsemius and Verkade (2011; hereafter referred to as WWV2011), who used the quantile regression technique to estimate predictive hydrological uncertainty using a deterministic water level forecast as a predictor. The various configurations are designed to address two issues with the WWV2011 implementation: (i) quantile crossing, which causes non-strictly rising cumulative predictive distributions, and (ii) the use of linear quantile models to describe joint distributions that may not be strictly linear. Thus, four configurations were built: (i) a ''classical" quantile regression, (ii) a configuration that implements a non-crossing quantile technique, (iii) a configuration where quantile models are built in normal space after application of the normal quantile transformation (NQT) (similar to the implementation used by WWV2011), and (iv) a configuration that builds quantile model separately on separate domains of the predictor. Using each configuration, four reforecasting series of water levels at 14 stations in the upper Severn River were established. The quality of these four series was intercompared using a set of graphical and numerical verification metrics. Intercomparison showed that reliability and sharpness vary across configurations, but in none of the configurations do these two forecast quality aspects improve simultaneously. Further analysis shows that skills in terms of the Brier skill score, mean continuous ranked probability skill score and relative operating characteristic score is very similar across the four configurations.
Agricultural losses related to frost events: use of the 850 hPa level temperature as an explanatory variable of the damage cost
Authors: Papagiannaki K. , Lagouvardos K. , Kotroni V. , Papagiannakis G.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. The objective of this study is the analysis of damaging frost events in agriculture, by examining the relationship between the daily minimum temperature in the lower atmosphere (at an isobaric level of 850 hPa) and crop production losses. Furthermore, the study suggests a methodological approach for estimating agriculture risk due to frost events, with the aim of estimating the short-term probability and magnitude of frost-related financial losses for different levels of 850 hPa temperature. Compared with near-surface temperature forecasts, temperature forecasts at the level of 850 hPa are less influenced by varying weather conditions or by local topographical features; thus, they constitute a more consistent indicator of the forthcoming weather conditions. The analysis of the daily monetary compensations for insured crop losses caused by weather events in Greece shows that, during the period 1999–2011, frost caused more damage to crop production than any other meteorological phenomenon. Two regions of different geographical latitudes are examined further, to account for the differences in the temperature ranges developed within their ecological environment. Using a series of linear and logistic regressions, we found that minimum temperature (at an 850 hPa level), grouped into three categories according to its magnitude, and seasonality, are significant variables when trying to explain crop damage costs, as well as to predict and quantify the likelihood and magnitude of damaging frost events.
A Review of Surgical Repair Methods and Patient Outcomes for Gluteal Tendon Tears
Authors: Ebert Jay R. , Bucher Thomas A. , Ball Simon V. , Janes Gregory C.
Published: September 2014

Advanced hip imaging and surgical findings have demonstrated that a common cause of greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is gluteal tendon tears. Conservative measures are initially employed to treat GTPS and manage gluteal tears, though patients frequently undergo multiple courses of non-operative treatment with only temporary pain relief. Therefore, a number of surgical treatment options for recalcitrant GTPS associated with gluteal tears have been reported. These have included open trans-osseous or bone anchored suture techniques, endoscopic methods and the use of tendon augmentation for repair reinforcement. This review describes the anatomy, pathophysiology and clinical presentation of gluteal tendon tears. Surgical techniques and patient reported outcomes are presented. This review demonstrates that surgical repair can result in improved patient outcomes, irrespective of tear aetiology, and suggests that the patient with “trochanteric bursitis” should be carefully assessed as newer surgical techniques show promise for a condition that historically has been managed conservatively.
Defining Central venous Line Position in Children: Tips for the Tip
Authors: Perin Giordano , Scarpa Maria-Grazia
Published: September 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse literature related to the position of centrally inserted central venous catheters and to review topics related to assessment of tip position of those catheters in children. Applications of specific techniques to PICCs (Periferally Inserted Central Catheters) and umbilical venous catheter will also be reviewed.

Methods

Analysis of 68 original manuscripts, 42 specifically related to the paediatric population, 26 related to the adult population. The papers analysed were published between 1949 and 2014; all articles were in English except one in Italian and one in German.

Results

From the analysed literature, most of the guidelines recommend tip positioning at a level between the superior vena cava and the right atrium. Several methods have been described to evaluate tip position in the paediatric population, but none of those is considered completely reliable. The standard methods used to identify catheter tip position are radiography and fluoroscopy, but no specific landmark can be recommended in the paediatric population. The ultrasonographic approach has been investigated mainly for PICCs positioning in the neonatal population. The electrocardiographic method has been evaluated in the general paediatric population.

Conclusions

No specific recommendation can be given due to the low level of evidence. Ultrasound and ECG (electrocardiogram) techniques are a potential alternative to chest X-ray and further studies should be implemented to establish them. A wider application of these techniques may reduce neonatal and paediatric exposure to radiations and additionally reduce costs.
Characterization of the Cephalic Arch and Location of Stenosis
Authors: Bennett Shelby , Hammes Mary S. , Blicharski Tom , Watson Sydeaka , Funaki Brian
Published: September 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to accurately characterize the cephalic arch segments into four domains and to enable more specific evaluation of cephalic arch stenosis (CAS) and determine the frequency of stenosis in each domain.

Methods

After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, a retrospective chart review was done to define a population of patients receiving hemodialysis who developed CAS as apparent on clinically indicated radiologic imaging. A standardized approach was devised to categorize four domains of the cephalic arch. Domain I was defined as the peripheral portion of the arch and Domain IV was the distal portion of the cephalic vein near termination with the axillary vein. The magnitude of stenosis as measured by percentage was determined and compared in the four domains.

Results

The most frequent location for stenosis was found in domain IV when compared with domains II or I (p<0.01). The magnitude of stenosis differed across all domains (p<0.001) with the least common place for CAS in domain I. Treatment of CAS included angioplasty in all, thrombectomy in eight, and stent placement in five.

Conclusions

CAS occurs most commonly in the terminal portion of the arch. Four standardized domains have been defined; future work will validate these findings and determine the best intervention for each domain.
Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Exchange with Fibrin Sheath Disruption is not Associated with Increased Rate of Bacteremia
Authors: Valliant Amanda M. , Chaudhry Muhammad K. , Yevzlin Alexanders , Astor Brad , Chan Micah R.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

Tunneled dialysis catheters are the most common form of vascular access among incident dialysis patients in the United States. Fibrin sheath formation is a frequent cause of late catheter dysfunction requiring an exchange procedure with balloon disruption of the fibrin sheath. It is unknown whether fibrin sheath disruption is associated with increased incidence of bacteremia or catheter failure.

Methods

We reviewed all tunneled dialysis catheter exchange procedures at the University of Wisconsin between January 2008 and December 2011. The primary outcome was incidence of bacteremia, defined as positive blood cultures within 2 weeks of the procedure. Catheter failure, requiring intervention or replacement, was examined as a secondary outcome. Baseline characteristics examined included diabetic status, gender, race and age.

Results

A total of 163 procedures were reviewed; 67 (41.1%) had fibrin sheath disruption and 96 did not. Bacteremia occurred in 4.5% (3/67) of those with and 3.1% (3/97) of those without fibrin sheath disruption (p=0.65). Fibrin sheath disruption was not significantly associated with the risk of catheter failure (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]=1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87-2.10; p=0.18). Diabetes was associated with greater risk of catheter failure (aHR=1.88; 95% CI: 1.19-2.95; p=0.006), whereas higher age was associated with a lower risk of catheter failure (aHR per 10 years=0.83; 95% CI: 0.72-0.96; p=0.01).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that there is no significant increase in bacteremia and subsequent catheter dysfunction rates after fibrin sheath disruption compared to simple over the wire exchange. These results are encouraging given the large numbers of patients utilizing tunneled catheters for initial hemodialysis access and the known rates of fibrin sheath formation leading to catheter failure.
Different Presentations of Renal Cell Cancer on Ultrasound and Computerized Tomography
Authors: Markić Dean , Krpina Kristian , Ahel Juraj , Španjol Josip , Gršković Antun , Štifter Sanja , Đorđević Gordana , Štemberger Cristophe , Pavlović Ivan , Maričić Anton
Published: September 2014

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the kidney. The major goal of imaging techniques is to correctly differentiate between benign and malignant renal lesions. We present the cases of six patients with renal masses that were interpreted completely differently based on ultrasound (US) and computerized tomography (CT) findings. From January 1st, 2008 to March 1st, 2014, 307 patients from our center underwent nephrectomy for RCC. In all patients US and CT were performed before the operation. In six patients, the US indicated a focal, solid renal lesion that was interpreted by CT as a cystic lesion (Bosniak II-III). Because discrepancies were evident, renal biopsies were performed. The biopsies revealed RCC in the six patients, all of whom underwent subsequent nephrectomy. All of the patients were confirmed to have macroscopically solid RCC without any cystic components. In most cases, CT is the most accurate diagnostic technique for the clinical diagnostic classification of renal masses. In cases where US characterizes a renal lesion as solid, despite CT findings of a cystic lesion, kidney biopsies are recommended. The 6 cases reported here support our belief that, in diagnostic processes of RCC, these techniques should be complementary used.
Frank Bidart's Voice and the Erasure of Jewish Difference in “Ellen West”
Authors: Morris Daniel
Published: September 2014

In “Ellen West” (1977) Frank Bidart engages with an intertextual poetics by including “found” prose from the English translation of Lionel Binswanger's case history to lend historical veracity to lyric passages spoken by West, a European Jew who died in 1921. In his representation of Binswanger's text, however, Bidart omits key points that connect West's disgust with her “Jewish” body type to her internalization of an anti-Semitic discourse. Instead of focusing on the anti-Semitic discourse that animates West's body hatred, Bidart reads West's devaluation of the body and her wish for its erasure as in line with German idealism and an aesthetic sublime.
Pierre Boulez e a análise musical: Notations
Authors: Gubernikoff Carole
Published: September 2014

A análise musical de Pierre Boulez exige um posicionamento diante da quantidade de informações existentes em textos do próprio autor, em entrevistas e em comentarista. Dentre essas informações, selecionamos apresentar a experiência de Jonathan Goldmann frente à análise de obras de Pierre Boulez. Algumas das principais características de estilos encontradas em suas obras, nos aspectos de textura, ritmo e proliferação podem ser verificadas em Douze Notations para piano e nas Notations, para orquestra.