bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Metatarsal Padding on Pain and Functional Ability in Metatarsalgia
Authors: Männikkö K. , Sahlman J.
Published: March 2017

Background and Aims:

Many kinds of insoles and pads are commonly used as a conservative treatment of metatarsalgia. However, earlier studies of insole treatment provide contradictory results, and the natural progression of metatarsalgia is still unknown. The aims of this study were to (1) determine whether simple custom-made metatarsal pad insoles reduce pain and improve functional ability, (2) find out patients’ satisfaction with padding treatment, and (3) investigate predisposing factors for metatarsalgia.

Material and Methods:

All metatarsalgia patients provided with metatarsal pad insoles during a 2-year period at Kuopio University Hospital (n = 45) were included in the study and observed at least a year. In all, 25 patients were interviewed about their situation before and after treatment. The Numeric Rating Scale for pain and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society forefoot questionnaire included questions about predisposing factors, other diseases, exercise, work, shoes, and satisfaction with insoles. Foot X-rays taken from 45 patients during treatment were analyzed.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 56 years (range 34–84 years); 87% of them were women. In all, 47% of patients had osteoarthritic changes in the first metatarsophalangeal joint, and 42% had hallux valgus. In the interviewed subgroup (n = 25) body mass index was normal in 44%, and 36% were mildly overweight. High-heeled shoes were used by 40% daily, and 68% had done standing work for several years. Pain decreased significantly on the Numeric Rating Scale: 3.2 points in all patients ( p < 0.001), 3.1 points among women, and 4.25 points among men. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score improved 24.2 points in all patients ( p < 0.001, range 0–100), among women 19 points, and among men 29 points.

Conclusion:

Metatarsalgia affects mostly women and is often preceded by extensive use of high heels and standing work. Also, a high association of first metatarsophalangeal arthrosis and hallux valgus was found. Metatarsal pads reduce pain and improve the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society score. We recommend metatarsal padding as a safe and inexpensive alternative in treating metatarsalgia patients.
Elevated Levels of Procalcitonin and Interleukin-6 are Linked with Postoperative Complications in Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Brocca A. , Virzì G. M. , de Cal M. , Giavarina D. , Carta M. , Ronco C.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Cardiac surgery–associated acute kidney injury is a frequent and serious postoperative complication of cardiac surgery and is associated with an increased risk of morbidity, mortality, and length stay. In this study, we hypothesized that persistent elevation in inflammation in the first 48 h might be a powerful predictor of clinical outcome. Our aim was to elucidate the usefulness of interleukin-6 and procalcitonin postoperative levels in predicting mortality and renal complications in cardiac surgery patients.

Methods:

A total of 122 cardiac surgery patients were enrolled. Procalcitonin and interleukin-6 concentrations were measured on the second postoperative day, and their levels were evaluated versus a number of conditions and endpoints.

Results:

Procalcitonin has a good predictive value for adverse renal outcome (p < 0.05). Interleukin-6 has a good predictive value for 30 days and overall mortality in cardiac surgery population (p < 0.05). We did not observe a significant difference in procalcitonin and interleukin-6 levels among patients with different types of surgery and different extracorporeal circulation time, but the levels of both the molecules increase significantly depending on number of transfusions received by patients (p < 0.01).

Conclusion:

We speculated that procalcitonin and interleukin-6 could be two effective biomarkers. There is a possibility of having a combined inflammatory multi-biomarker panel, with procalcitonin for predicting renal outcome and interleukin-6 for predicting mortality.
‘I feel like I failed him by ringing the police’: Criminalising disability in Australia
Authors: McCausland Ruth , Baldry Eileen
Published: March 2017

The stigmatisation, control, criminalisation and incarceration of people with disability have a long history. While in recent decades there has been increasing commitment to the rights of people with disabilities by governments in western nations, the over-representation of people with mental and cognitive disability in criminal justice systems has continued. Although there are similarities amongst Western jurisdictions in regard to the treatment of people with disability in justice systems, there are particularities in Australia that will be drawn out in this article. We argue that disadvantaged people with mental and cognitive disability are being managed by and entrenched in criminal justice systems across Australia’s six states and two territories, including so-called diversionary and therapeutic measures that appear to accommodate their disability. In the absence of early and appropriate diagnosis, intervention and support in the community, some disadvantaged and poor persons with mental and cognitive disability, in particular Indigenous Australians, are being systematically criminalised. Criminal justice agencies and especially youth and adult prisons have become normalised as places of disability management and control. Drawing on research that focuses in detail on the jurisdictions of the Northern Territory and New South Wales, we argue for a reconstruction of the understanding of and response to people with these disabilities in the criminal justice system.
Cervical vertebral injuries associated with the ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament: Imaging features
Authors: Nakayama Tetsuo , Ehara Shigeru
Published: March 2017

Background

Spinal injuries associated with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) have been characterized. However, the imaging features of traumatic cervical spine fractures in patients with OPLL have not been assessed adequately.

Purpose

To characterize the patterns of traumatic cervical spine fractures associated with different types of OPLL.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the patterns of fractures resulting from cervical spine injury in patients with OPLL of different types and assessed the fracture patterns in patients with ankylosed segments.

Results

Twenty-six patients (23 men, 3 women; median age, 67.0 years; age range, 43–87 years) were included. Fall from a height <3 m was the most common trauma. Contiguous type OPLL was seen in 11 patients (42%), segmental type in 11 (42%), and mixed type in four (15%). Four of the contiguous OPLL and one of the mixed OPLL patients had ankylosed segments. The incidence of cervical fractures was 69% (16/26): seven (64%) in contiguous OPLL, five (46%) in segmental OPLL, and in all four patients with mixed OPLL. Unilateral interfacetal fracture-dislocation was most common (4/16); the others were bilateral interfacetal fracture-dislocation, fractures through the ankylosed segment, transdiscal fractures, isolated facet fractures, and compression fractures. Cervical fractures were exclusively observed in the C4 to C7, except in one case occurred at the C2 level.

Conclusion

Interfacetal fracture-dislocation in the lower cervical vertebrae constitutes the most common injury resulting from minor trauma.
Scleral-Fixated Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Stem Maxwell S. , Todorich Bozho , Woodward Maria A. , Hsu Jason , Wolfe Jeremy D.
Published: March 2017

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) can have inadequate support for placement in the capsular bag as a result of ocular trauma, metabolic or inherited conditions such as Marfan syndrome or pseudoexfoliation, or complicated cataract surgery. Surgical options for patients with inadequate capsular support include alternative placement of the IOL in the anterior chamber, fixation to the iris, or fixation to the sclera. The surgical techniques for each of these approaches have improved considerably over the last several decades resulting in improved visual and ocular outcomes. If no capsular or iris support exists, the surgeon can fixate an IOL to the sclera or the patient can remain aphakic. IOLs can be fixated to the sclera using sutures or by tunneling the IOL haptics into the sclera without sutures. This review summarizes the preoperative considerations, surgical techniques, outcomes, and unique complications associated with implantation of scleral-fixated IOLs.
Pirfenidone ameliorates murine chronic GVHD through inhibition of macrophage infiltration and TGF-β production
Authors: Du Jing , Paz Katelyn , Flynn Ryan , Vulic Ante , Robinson Tara M. , Lineburg Katie E. , Alexander Kylie A. , Meng Jingjing , Roy Sabita , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Loschi Michael , Hill Geoffrey R. , Serody Jonathan S. , Maillard Ivan , Miklos David , Koreth John , Cutler Corey S. , Antin Joseph H. , Ritz Jerome , MacDonald Kelli P. , Schacker Timothy W. , Luznik Leo , Blazar Bruce R.
Published: March 2017

Key Points

Pirfenidone ameliorates cGVHD in murine models with distinct pathophysiology. The efficacy of pirfenidone is associated with inhibition of macrophage infiltration and TGF-β production.
Computed tomography derived bone density measurement in the diabetic foot
Authors: Barwick Alex , Tessier John , Mirow James , de Jonge Xanne Janse , Chuter Vivienne
Published: March 2017

Background

The accurate and reliable measurement of foot bone density is challenging and there is currently no gold standard technique. Such measurement is particularly valuable in populations at risk of foot bone pathology such as in those with long term diabetes. With research and development, computed tomography may prove to be a useful tool for this assessment. The aim of this study was to establish the reliability of a novel method of foot bone density measurement in people with diabetes using computed tomography.

Methods

Ten feet in people with diabetes were scanned with computed tomography twice with repositioning. Bone density (in Hounsfield units) was assessed in the trabecular and cortical bone in all tarsals and metatarsals. Reliability was assessed with intra‐class correlation coefficients (95% confidence intervals), limits of agreement and standard error of measurement.

Results

The reliability of the trabecular density of most bones was excellent with intra‐class correlation coefficients ranging from 0.68 to 0.91. Additionally, cortical bone density showed fair to good reliability at the talus (0.52), calcaneus (0.59), navicular (0.70), cuboid (0.69), intermediate cuneiform (0.46) and first metatarsal (0.61).

Conclusions

The study established the reliability of a practical method of assessing the trabecular and cortical foot bone density using computed tomography scanning. This methodology may be useful in the investigation of foot bone disease occurring in diabetes and its early diagnosis, intervention and assessment of treatment efficacy. Further development of this method is warranted.
Emplacement of intrusions of the Tarim Flood Basalt Province and their impacts on oil and gas reservoirs: A 3D seismic reflection study in Yingmaili fields, Tarim Basin, northwest China
Authors: Gao Zhongbo , Tian Wei , Wang Lei , Shi Yongmin , Pan Mao
Published: March 2017

A basaltic dike-sill network is emplaced into the shallow subsurface of the Yingmai-2 dome, northern Tarim Basin, northwest China. The 3D seismic reflection imaging suggests that these dikes and sills are fed from an intrusion at the focal area of the dome. This basaltic intrusion has a width of approximately 3000 m and thickness of approximately 1000 m, and it is connected with a much larger Early Permian igneous body in the northern Tarim Basin. An unconformity between the Permian basalt lava flows and the base Triassic conglomerates truncates the dome, meaning that the dome must have developed prior to the Triassic. The basaltic intrusion that emplaced beneath the dome likely pushed the surrounding middle Cambrian salts away and instigated uplift of the overlying upper Cambrian to the lower Permian strata. In most cases, igneous activity plays a negative role on formation of oil and gas reservoirs. However, in the Yingmai-2 case, intrusive magmatic activity has caused “forced folding” of the overburdened strata and controlled the formation of a large commercial oil trap. We suggest that the magmatic activity thus also acts as a positive role on the local formation of a producing petroleum system.
The use of predictive analytics for hydrocarbon exploration in the Denver-Julesburg Basin
Authors: Schnetzler Emmanuel T. , Alumbaugh David L.
Published: March 2017

We present an approach to predict spatial distribution of a variable from a set of geophysical and interpreted grids using alternating conditional expectations (ACE). This technique is based on nonparametric transformations of the predictor and response variables in order to maximize the linear correlation of the transformed predictors with the transformed response. ACE provides a powerful method to detect underlying relationships between the variables and use them in a regression framework to predict the response variable. A case study is presented that illustrates the approach using a set of grids derived from geophysical attributes (gravity, magnetic, electromagnetic) and interpreted grids (isopach, total organic carbon) as predictor variables to estimate early hydrocarbon production.
Time-lapse reservoir property change estimation from seismic using machine learning
Authors: Cao Jun , Roy Baishali
Published: March 2017

Time-lapse seismic analysis is an important tool in reservoir management, well planning, and reservoir model updating. Existing 4D close-the-loop methods utilize rock-physics models and simulation models, and typically work well in simple 4D cases such as water flood movement (where the primary change is the saturations), but they face challenges in reliably and quantitatively estimating 4D reservoir property changes when the reservoir dynamics are complex. We demonstrate a data-driven quantitative method that uses machine learning to leverage the inherent physics between time-lapse reservoir property changes and seismic attributes. The method can simultaneously utilize multiple seismic attributes, including attributes derived from prestack seismic, from multiple 4D seismic surveys. It significantly improves the efficiency and reduces the cycle time for quantitative 4D interpretation. We evaluate the method through a study based on synthetic data modeled after a complex North Sea reservoir with long production and injection history. For this reservoir, separation and estimation of the time-lapse pressure and saturation change are the critical objectives. Results show high prediction accuracy for all the reservoir properties including pressure, saturations, and compaction changes for the blind validation test. Estimated maps of all the reservoir property changes match very well with the simulation model in the synthetic study. This work also demonstrates that prestack seismic attributes significantly improved the estimation of 4D pressure and saturation changes.
Folate receptor 1 is necessary for neural plate cell apical constriction during Xenopus neural tube formation
Authors: Balashova Olga A. , Visina Olesya , Borodinsky Laura N.
Published: March 2017

Folate supplementation prevents up to 70% of neural tube defects (NTDs), which result from a failure of neural tube closure during embryogenesis. The elucidation of the mechanisms underlying folate action has been challenging. This study introduces Xenopus laevis as a model to determine the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in folate action during neural tube formation. We show that knockdown of folate receptor 1 (Folr1; also known as FRα) impairs neural tube formation and leads to NTDs. Folr1 knockdown in neural plate cells only is necessary and sufficient to induce NTDs. Folr1-deficient neural plate cells fail to constrict, resulting in widening of the neural plate midline and defective neural tube closure. Pharmacological inhibition of folate action by methotrexate during neurulation induces NTDs by inhibiting folate interaction with its uptake systems. Our findings support a model in which the folate receptor interacts with cell adhesion molecules, thus regulating the apical cell membrane remodeling and cytoskeletal dynamics necessary for neural plate folding. Further studies in this organism could unveil novel cellular and molecular events mediated by folate and lead to new ways of preventing NTDs.
Neuropilin 1 binds PDGF-D and is a co-receptor in PDGF-D–PDGFRβ signaling
Authors: Muhl Lars , Folestad Erika Bergsten , Gladh Hanna , Wang Yixin , Moessinger Christine , Jakobsson Lars , Eriksson Ulf
Published: March 2017

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-D is a PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ)-specific ligand implicated in a number of pathological conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, but its biological function remains incompletely understood. In this study, we demonstrate that PDGF-D binds directly to neuropilin 1 (NRP1), in a manner that requires the PDGF-D C-terminal Arg residue. Stimulation with PDGF-D, but not PDGF-B, induced PDGFRβ–NRP1 complex formation in fibroblasts. Additionally, PDGF-D induced translocation of NRP1 to cell–cell junctions in endothelial cells, independently of PDGFRβ, altering the availability of NRP1 for VEGF-A–VEGFR2 signaling. PDGF-D showed differential effects on pericyte behavior in ex vivo sprouting assays compared to PDGF-B. Furthermore, PDGF-D-induced PDGFRβ–NRP1 interaction can occur in trans between molecules located in different cells (endothelial cells and pericytes). In summary, we show that NRP1 can act as a co-receptor for PDGF-D–PDGFRβ signaling and is possibly implicated in intercellular communication in the vascular wall.
Pathogen induced food evasion behavior in Drosophila larvae
Authors: Surendran Sandya , Hückesfeld Sebastian , Wäschle Benjamin , Pankratz Michael J
Published: March 2017

Recognizing a deadly pathogen and generating an appropriate immune reaction is essential for any organism to survive in its natural habitat. Unlike vertebrates and higher primates, invertebrates depend solely on the innate immune system to defend themselves from an attacking pathogen. In this study, we report a behavioral defense strategy observed in Drosophila larvae that help them escape and limit an otherwise lethal infection. A bacterial infection in the gut is sensed by the larval central nervous system which generates an alteration in its food preference, leading them to stop feeding and move away from the infectious food source. We have also found that this behavioral response is dependent on the internal nutritive state of the larvae. Using this novel behavioral assay as a read-out, we further identified hugin neuropeptide to be involved in evasion response and detection of bacterial signals.
Identification and characterization of the bombykal receptor in the hawkmoth Manduca sexta
Authors: Wicher Dieter , Morinaga Satoshi , Halty-deLeon Lorena , Funk Nico , Hansson Bill , Touhara Kazushige , Stengl Monika
Published: March 2017

Manduca sexta females attract their mates with the release of a species-specific sex-pheromone blend with bombykal (E,Z)-10,12-hexadcadienal and (E,E,Z)-10,12,14-hexadecatrienal being the two major components. Here, we searched for the hawkmoth bombykal receptor in heterologous expression systems. The putative pheromone receptor MsexOr1 co-expressed with MsexOrco in Xenopus oocytes elicited dose-dependent inward currents upon bombykal application (10 - 300 µM), and coexpressed in HEK293 and CHO cells caused bombykal-dependent rises in the intracellular free Ca2+ concentration. Also the bombykal receptor of Bombyx mori BmOr3 coexpressed with MsexOrco responded to bombykal (30 - 100 µM) with inward currents. In contrast, MsexOr4 coexpressed with MsexOrco neither responded to bombykal (30 - 100 µM) nor to the (E,E,Z)-10,12,14-hexadecatrienal mimic. Thus, MsexOr1, but probably not MsexOr4, and also not MsexOrco, is the bombykal-binding pheromone receptor in the hawkmoth. Finally, we obtained evidence that phospholipase C- and protein kinase C-activity is involved in the hawkmoth's bombykal-receptor-mediated Ca2+ signals in HEK293 and CHO cells.
Formation and function of intracardiac valve cells in the Drosophila heart
Authors: Lammers Kay , Abeln Bettina , Hüsken Mirko , Lehmacher Christine , Psathaki Olympia Ekaterini , Alcorta Esther , Meyer Heiko , Paululat Achim
Published: March 2017

Drosophila harbors a simple tubular heart that ensures hemolymph circulation within the body. The heart is built by a few different cell types, including cardiomyocytes that define the luminal heart channel and ostia cells that constitute openings in the heart wall allowing hemolymph to enter the heart chamber. Regulation of flow directionality within a tube, such as blood flow in arteries or insect hemolymph within the heart lumen, requires a dedicated gate, valve, or flap-like structure that prevents backflow of fluids. In the Drosophila heart, intracardiac valves provide this directionality of hemolymph streaming, with one valve being present in larvae and three valves in the adult fly. Each valve is built by two specialized cardiomyocytes that exhibit a unique histology. We found that the capacity to open and close the heart lumen relies on a unique myofibrillar setting as well as on the presence of large membranous vesicles. These vesicles are of endocytic origin and probably represent unique organelles of valve cells. Moreover, we characterised the working mode of the cells in real time. Valve cells exhibit a highly flexible shape and during each heartbeat, oscillating shape changes result in closing and opening of the heart channel. Finally, we identified a set of novel valve cell markers useful for future in-depth analyses of cell differentiation in wildtype and mutant animals.
On possibility of realization of weak cavitation mode at electronics ultrasonic cleaning
Authors: Неверов Александр , Neverov Aleksandr
Published: March 2017

The procedure is described and results of the experimental investigation of unsteady cavitation phenomena at ultrasonic cleaning cavitation unstable products are presented. It is established that at certain correlations of parameters of a transmitter and liquid the short-term pulses of acoustic pressure in liquid and connected with them relaxation oscillations of feed electric current are possible. Short-term power pulses of acoustic pressure determine a possibility of damages in parts under cleaning. Maximum values of acoustic pressure are higher greatly than its averages. Acoustic pressure pulsations take place in a certain range of mean amplitudes of an amplitude speed common for any liquid. A possibility is shown for the realization of a weak cavitation mode at ultrasonic cleaning cavitation unstable products.
Methods and technologies for surface layer modification in metal products
Authors: Смоленцев В. , Smolentsev V. , Сафонов Сергей , Safonov Sergey
Published: March 2017

In the work it is shown that the design of combined technological processes ensuring the maximum possible operating characteristics of products assessed in a criterion way is possible. The science-based methods of choice and use of technologies created earlier, methods for the development of promising coating types, means for the modification of a surface layer and thickness changes of coatings with operating characteristics required are shown. The possibilities are considered for the creation of new methods realizing operating indices the fulfillment of which is impossible at common technologies. The well-known researches have shown that at the operation of science intensive products the mechanical characteristics including fatigue material resistance depend to a great extent upon a state and properties of a surface layer that is why there is offered a substantiated choice and design of technological processes for manufacturing products with properties corresponding most completely to operation conditions.
ERGONOMICS AND PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF ROAD-BUILDING MACHINE OPERATION
Authors: Мандровский Константин , Mandrovskiy Konstantin
Published: March 2017

The interconnection of ergonomics factors with performance characteristics of operating efficiency of excavators – const price of product unit taking into account costs of possession (CPEP) is considered. A set of CPEP computations for a variable level of ergonomic factors is carried out. A work cycle time period for an excavator with the mass of 20t reasoning from technical potentialities makes from 6 10 sec which is considerably less of a time period spent actually. Time losses depend on the perfection degree in a control system of a machine defining a value of operation speed decrease by an operator and demand in a multistage positioning of a bucket cutting face. Time losses in a work cycle can be presented as depending upon a value of speed decrease of working equipment motion and time loss for control switching in the course of which working equipment is stationary. For the CPEP definition a list of initial data is necessary a part of which depends upon current conditions of machine operation that makes impossible obtaining this information without use of systems of an automated infor-mation collection and information processing (monitoring systems).

A level of ergonomic properties of a specific machine can be assumed as unchangeable but an operator, at the expense of his individuality, introduces instability into efficiency indices. At the possibility of control of time losses for the management in a real time mode (as a number of other indices) provided with a joint functioning of automated control systems and monitoring systems it is possible to give an assessment to the undisclosed potential of efficiency and competitive ability of machine use.
FEATURES OF DESIGN OF THE VISUAL INTERFACE FOR THE WEBSITE "BGTU-ENTRANT"
Authors: Коростелев Дмитрий , Korostelev Dmitriy , Азарченков Андрей , Azarchenkov Andrey , Подвесовский Александр , Podvesovskiy Aleksandr , Шкаберин Виталий , Shkaberin Vitaliy , Трубаков Андрей
Published: March 2017

Support of efficiency and high quality of a set of entrants is among the priority tasks facing the Bryansk state technical university. In the modern conditions one of the main sources of information on higher education institution for entrants is the official web site of higher education institution. The qualitative website having the modern interface providing a possibility of comfortable viewing from any, including mobile devices, containing exhaustive information and realizing the thought-over system of navigation according to documents will promote increase in interest in higher education institution from potential entrants and, as a result, to increase in efficiency and quality of a set. In article requirements to the visual interface of the web site "BGTU — the Entrant" are created and decisions which were the basis for development of the website for the purpose of support of the specified requirements are described. Features of color design of the interface which main objective is creation of such color gamma which, on the one hand, shall attract users are considered, and on the other hand – to be memorable. Detailed reasons for approaches to bread boarding of the pages of the website considering features of submission of information connected to operation of selection committee are also given.
ASSESSMENT AND QUALITY IMPROVEMENT IN COMPLIANCE ACTIVITY PROCESSES
Authors: Школина Татьяна , Shkolina Tatyana , Изотикова Екатерина , Izotikova Ekaterina
Published: March 2017

In the paper the assessment of the efficiency in a compliance activity process is considered. The peculiarity of this investigation is the integration of current procedures of quality management with quality meter-ing regulations. The range of quality indices in a co-pliance activity is offered. The assessment of compliance activity quality is offered for carrying out through the method of the formation of the generalized (complex) quality index with the use of quality metering regulations. A complex index is calculated according to the data of process monitoring in accordance with the principle of weighted average. An approach to the setting of planned values of quality indices is offered. The recommendations are given for the application of an expert method for the definition of factors of value weightiness. A scale for the interpretation of assessment results is shown. The introduction of critical values of quality indices for the recalculation of an efficiency assessment obtained with the use of a veto factor is offered.

The results of the paper are of interest for managers of quality.
Full-Stock-Payment Marginalization in Merger and Acquisition Transactions
Authors: de Bodt Eric , Cousin Jean-Gabriel , Roll Richard
Published: March 2017

The number of merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions paid fully in stock in the U.S. market declined sharply after 2001, when pooling and goodwill amortization were abolished by the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Did this accounting rule change really have such far reaching implications? Using a difference-in-differences test and Canada as a counterfactual, this study reveals that it did. We also report several other results confirming the role of pooling abolishment, including (i) that the decrease in full stock payment relates to CEO incentives and (ii) that previously documented determinants of the M&A mode of payment cannot explain the post-pooling abolishment pattern. These results are also robust to controls for various factors, such as the Internet bubble, the exclusion of cross-border deals, the presence of Canadian cross-listed firms, the use of a constant sample of acquirers across the pooling and post-pooling abolishment periods, the use of Europe as an alternative counterfactual, and controls for the SEC Rule 10b-18 share repurchase safe harbor amendments of 2003.

This paper was accepted by Shivaram Rajgopal, accounting.
Efficacy and Social Validity of Peer Network Interventions for High School Students With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Asmus Jennifer M. , Carter Erik W. , Moss Colleen K. , Biggs Elizabeth E. , Bolt Daniel M. , Born Tiffany L. , Bottema-Beutel Kristen , Brock Matthew E. , Cattey Gillian N. , Cooney Molly , Fesperman Ethan S. , Hochman Julia M. , Huber Heartley B. , Lequia Jenna L. , Lyons Gregory L. , Vincent Lori B. , Weir Katie
Published: March 2017

This randomized controlled trial examined the efficacy of peer network interventions to improve the social connections of 47 high school students with severe disabilities. School staff invited, trained, and supported 192 peers without disabilities to participate in individualized social groups that met throughout one semester. Compared to adolescents in the “business-as-usual” control group (n = 48), students receiving peer networks gained significantly more new social contacts and friendships. Although many peer relationships maintained one and two semesters later, their spill over beyond the school day was limited. Students and staff affirmed the social validity of the interventions. We offer recommendations for research and practice aimed at improving the implementation and impact of peer network interventions in secondary schools.
Tyramide Signal Amplification Permits Immunohistochemical Analyses of Androgen Receptors in the Rat Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Low Katelyn L. , Ma Chunqi , Soma Kiran K.
Published: March 2017

Research on neural androgen receptors (ARs) has traditionally focused on brain regions that regulate reproductive and aggressive behaviors, such as the hypothalamus and amygdala. Although many cells in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) also express ARs, the number of ARs per cell appears to be much lower, and thus, AR immunostaining is often hard to detect and quantify in the PFC. Here, we demonstrate that biotin tyramide signal amplification (TSA) dramatically increases AR immunoreactivity in the rat brain, including critical regions of the PFC such as the medial PFC (mPFC) and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). We show that TSA is useful for AR detection with both chromogenic and immunofluorescent immunohistochemistry. Double-labeling studies reveal that AR+ cells in the PFC and hippocampus are NeuN+ but not GFAP+ and thus primarily neuronal. Finally, in gonadally intact rats, more AR+ cells are present in the mPFC and OFC of males than of females. Future studies can use TSA to further examine AR immunoreactivity across ages, sexes, strains, and different procedures (e.g., fixation methods). In light of emerging evidence for the androgen regulation of executive function and working memory, these results may help understand the distribution and roles of ARs in the PFC.
Life-Saving Weapons: The Biolegitimacy of Drone Warfare
Authors: Rowland Allison L.
Published: March 2017

This essay uses the theoretical lens of biolegitimacy to advance rhetorical criticism on contemporary drone warfare. As coined by anthropologist Didier Fassin, biolegitimacy describes the emergent preference for “life itself” under humanitarianism. Recasting biolegitimacy as a rhetorical achievement illuminates the strategies by which the United States accrues biolegitimacy for its drone program. In official White House rhetorics, the remotely piloted aircraft that strike over nonrecognized theaters of war, such as Pakistan, Somalia, and Yemen, are packaged in the “saving lives” logic of biolegitimacy. After exploring three rhetorical strategies of official drone rhetorics for achieving biolegitimacy, I suggest that drones themselves act as key distributors of biolegitimate social worth in the War on Terror.
Rewolucja 1956 w literaturze węgierskiej. Na marginesie literackiego kanonu
Authors: Piotrowiak-Junkiert Kinga
Published: March 2017

The article is an attempt at an outline of the situation in Hungarian literature confronted with the revolution of 1956. The events of the Hungarian October are some of the more frequent themes in revisionist literature. Selected examples of literary works show the most important features of that literature, writing strategies, patterns of artistic message. From the wide selection of the literature, a poem, fragments of a diary, a novel, and an authobiographical essay by Sandor Marai, Gyorgy Moldova, Istvan Orkeny and Imre Kertesz were selected.
„Poznański Czerwiec 1956”. Historia wydania książki
Authors: Kledzik Bronisław
Published: March 2017

The author remembers the initiatives taken in 1981 to celebrate the twenty fifth anniversary of Poznań 1956 protest.
Zapomniane, wspomniane, zapomniane…
Authors: Rewers Ewa
Published: March 2017

The experience of reminiscences/dreams lies at the roots of the theory of individual and social memory. The author compares childhood remembrance-pictures of the two important events of 28 June 1956 in Poznań with documental photographs collected in the Museum of Poznań Uprising 1956. These traces-documents are apparently different in comparison with tablets fitted on the pavement leading to the Museum. Memory is plural, and there are three main levels of recognition, memory and forgetting discussed by the author.
Corrosion rate determination of vessel walls agitated by double impeller and gas sparging
Authors: Baday Amani A. , ElShazly Yehia M.S. , Nosier Shaaban A.
Published: March 2017

Recently, multiple impeller gas sparged vessels have found wide application in many industries, such as food, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. In this study, the rate of diffusion-controlled corrosion of the wall of nitrogen gas sparged-double impeller agitated vessel was studied by the dissolution of copper wall in acidified dichromate solution technique. The variables studied were the impeller rotation speed, the superficial gas velocity, and the clearance between the two impellers. The results were reported in terms of dimensionless number depicting the process conditions, Re, Sc, and the impeller clearance. For the agitated vessel, the corrosion rate correlation was ${\rm{CR}} = 1.6\; \times \;{10^{\; - \;16}}{\rm{R}}{{\rm{e}}_{{\rm{Ag}}{\rm{.}}}}^{0.668}{\left( {{{{C_2}} \over H}} \right)^{0.183}}{\rm{S}}{{\rm{c}}^{0.33}}.$ For the condition: 2800<ReAg.<19,600, 0.19<C2/H<0.58 and Sc=960, with an average deviation of ±2.9%. For the agitated sparged vessel, the data were correlated by ${\rm{CR}} = 2.5\; \times \;{10^{\; - \;15}}{\rm{R}}{{\rm{e}}_{{\rm{Ag}}{\rm{.}}}}^{0.134}{\rm{Re}}_{{\rm{Sp}}{\rm{.}}}^{{\rm{0}}{\rm{.381}}}{\rm{S}}{{\rm{c}}^{0.33}}.$ For the condition: 2800<ReAg.<19,600, 370<ReSp.<1855 and Sc=960, with an average deviation of ±6.7%. These results show that, under these conditions, the rate of corrosion of agitated vessels is controlled by the rate of agitation and the clearance between the impellers. However, when gas sparging is introduced, the rate of corrosion is much more influenced by the gas flow rate, whereas the effect of the clearance between the impellers nearly disappears.
CRSP, numerical results for an electrical resistivity array to detect underground cavities
Authors: Amini Amin , Ramazi Hamidreza
Published: March 2017

This paper is devoted to the application of the Combined Resistivity Sounding and Profiling electrode configuration (CRSP) to detect underground cavities. Electrical resistivity surveying is among the most favorite geophysical methods due to its nondestructive and economical properties in a wide range of geosciences. Several types of the electrode arrays are applied to detect different certain objectives. In one hand, the electrode array plays an important role in determination of output resolution and depth of investigations in all resistivity surveys. On the other hand, they have their own merits and demerits in terms of depth of investigations, signal strength, and sensitivity to resistivity variations. In this article several synthetic models, simulating different conditions of cavity occurrence, were used to examine the responses of some conventional electrode arrays and also CRSP array. The results showed that CRSP electrode configuration can detect the desired objectives with a higher resolution rather than some other types of arrays. Also a field case study was discussed in which electrical resistivity approach was conducted in Abshenasan expressway (Tehran, Iran) U-turn bridge site for detecting potential cavities and/or filling loose materials. The results led to detect an aqueduct tunnel passing beneath the study area.
Review Article. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) in the intestine: diverging actions with converging consequences
Authors: Vanhove Wiebe , Peeters Paul M. , Cleynen Isabelle , Van Assche Gert , Ferrante Marc , Vermeire Séverine , Arijs Ingrid
Published: March 2017

The intestinal mucosa is a difficult environment to maintain homeostasis as it is constantly challenged by microbial and food antigens. Maintaining an intact epithelial barrier, a continuous turnover of intestinal epithelial cells and normobiosis of the gut microbiota are essential components to prevent intestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and colorectal cancer (CRC). Inflammasomes are critical immune regulators that are involved in all of these processes. They are multiprotein complexes able to assemble upon interaction with a noxious stimulus that will subsequently lead to caspase-1 activation. Activated caspase-1 will orchestrate the maturation and release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18, and induce pyroptosis, an inflammatory form of cell death. Both cytokine release and pyroptosis are initiated after detection of molecular patterns by a distinct inflammasome sensor protein. Absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) is such an inflammasome sensor that specifically responds to the presence of double stranded DNA (dsDNA) in the cytoplasm, leading to the recruitment and activation of caspase-1. Recent studies revealed additional roles of AIM2 in controlling epithelial cell proliferation, tight junction expression and the microbiome. Therefore, AIM2 plays a significant role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. This review focuses on the multifunctional role of AIM2 in intestinal homeostasis by regulating intestinal immunity and preventing colorectal cancer development.
Heterogeneous placement optimization for database query processing
Authors: Karnagel Tomas , Habich Dirk
Published: March 2017

Computing hardware is constantly evolving and database systems need to adapt to ongoing hardware changes to improve performance. The current hardware trend is heterogeneity, where multiple computing units like CPUs and GPUs are used together in one system. In this paper, we summarize our efforts to use hardware heterogeneity efficiently for query processing. We discuss different approaches of execution and investigate heterogeneous placement in detail by showing, how to automatically determine operator placement decisions according to the given hardware environment and query properties.
Survival of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas [L] Lam) vines in cultivars subjected to long dry spells after the growing season in Mozambique
Authors: Andrade Maria I. , Makunde Godwill S. , Ricardo Jose , Menomussanga Joana , Alvaro Abilio , Gruneberg Wolfgang J.
Published: March 2017

Optimisation of sweetpotato production potential is not realized in sub-Saharan Africa where dry spells are common after the growing season. Lack of seed cultivars at the beginning of the rainy season is the challenge and identifying those cultivars with the ability to survive a 4 to 7-month dry spell is an important objective in these regions. To this end, the purpose of the present study was to estimate survival of vines of different cultivars under drought stress. Three harvesting times set as 5, 9 and 11 months after planting were established at Umbeluzi, Nwallate and Gurue in 2015. For each harvesting time, 37 clones were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with two replications. Data collected on yield, vine length and number of sprouts were analysed using SAS 1996. Resisto had long stems but no vines after 9 months at any of the sites. The ability of some clones to reach 9 months and 11 months with few vines at Umbeluzi and Nwallate offer sources of planting material for the subsequent season. Sprouting had broad sense heritability above 50%. Sprouting is known to be an important aspect of cultivar survival. While we show that vine length and thickness could be traits responsible for sweet potato drought tolerance
Pluractionals in Bole-Tangale languages (West-Chadic)
Authors: Zoch Ulrike
Published: March 2017

The paper provides an overview of verbal plural marking and its function in several Bole-Tangale-languages (West-Chadic A). Verbal plurals – or pluractionals – may express repeated action and/or distributivity in most of these languages. In some of the languages under consideration two verbal plural marking strategies can be identified: partial reduplication and infixation/gemination. While partial reduplication seems to be the most generally applicable device to express repeated action and/or plurality of action, the function of infixation/gemination seems to be more specialized towards distributivity.
Once or more often? On pluractionality marking in Tima
Authors: Schneider-Blum Gertrud
Published: March 2017

The verbal root in Tima may be marked for one or several derivational functions, such as transitive, ventive, antipassive, middle voice, causative, instrumental, or pluractionality. Contrary to other derivational devices, pluractional marking can be achieved by various formal strategies, which are described in detail in the present contribution. Pluractional marking on Tima verbs indicates only repeated action or duration, depending on the lexical aspect of the verb; the number of the subject or object does not interfere with the marking. However, certain constructions force the speaker to use the pluractional as default form; the focus is on the action itself in such constructions.
Virtual Roadblocks: The Securitisation of the Information Superhighway
Authors: Kingsmith A T.
Published: March 2017

The Internet we know today is both content filtered and packet shaped. Subsequently, it is not the free operating zone of meta-space early proponents expected. Contrary to conventional wisdom, a multitude of actors have shown an increased willingness to intervene and control communication via the Internet with precision and effectiveness. This paper employs the Copenhagen School’s conceptualisation of securitisation at the macro level to address the issue of global Internet filtering from a “network” position between traditional “national” security and critical “individual” security. It looks at the ways in which intervention into the Internet’s infrastructure is leveraged for governance through various research programs such as Ronald Deibert’s Open Net Initiative, which probes all aspects of a national information infrastructure over the long term, concluding that the scope, scale, and sophistication of global Internet filtering are increasing in non-transparent fashions.
It should come as no surprise that since its dissemination, authoritarian regimes such as China, Iran and, Saudi Arabia have actively engaged in Internet filtering practices. What is troublesome is that advanced industrialised countries including Canada, Germany, and the United States have also followed suit. Reasons for doing so include: the securitisation of information communication after 9/11, to restricting access to material involving the sexual exploitation of children as well as ‘extremist’ websites. Considering these securitising moves, this paper argues that the more that filtering practices are withheld from public scrutiny and accountability, the more temping it is for framing authorities to employ these tools for illegitimate reasons such as the stifling of both opposition and civil society networks. Furthermore, due to increased connectivity, transparent Internet requires desecuritisation of social agents and international security structures in order to ensure more free information.
Cardio-oncology: what you need to know now for clinical practice and echocardiography
Authors: Larsen Carolyn M , Mulvagh Sharon L
Published: March 2017

Cardio-oncology is a rapidly growing field aimed at minimizing the effects of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in cancer survivors. To meet this aim, patients are assessed at baseline to define their risk of cardiotoxicity and then followed closely during and after chemotherapy to assess for early signs or symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Cardiac imaging, and in particular, transthoracic echocardiography, plays an essential role in the baseline assessment and serial follow-up of cardio-oncology patients. The objectives of this paper are to review the mechanisms of cardiotoxicity of several common chemotherapeutic agents associated with an increased risk for left ventricular systolic dysfunction and to outline recommendations regarding the baseline assessment and serial follow-up of cardio-oncology patients with a focus on the role of echocardiography.