bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated Serum Lipid Peroxidation and Reduced Vitamin C and Trace Element Concentrations Are Correlated With Epilepsy
Authors: Das Abhijit , Sarwar Md. Shahid , Hossain Md. Shohel , Karmakar Palash , Islam Mohammad Safiqul , Hussain Mohammad Enayet , Banik Sujan
Published: May 2018

Background. Epilepsy is one of the chronic and heterogeneous epidemic neurological disorders leading to substantial mortality. The aim of the present study was to investigate the serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), vitamin C, and trace elements namely zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), and manganese (Mn) in epileptic patients of Bangladesh and to establish if there are any pathophysiological correlations. Methods. This was a case-control study with 40 generalized epileptic patients and 40 healthy subjects as controls. Epilepsy was determined by the presence of seizure events with an abnormal electroencephalography and magnetic resonance imaging report of brain. Results. Anthropometric parameters highlighted that age is a major risk factor of epilepsy and men are more prone to epilepsy than women. Blood serum analysis demonstrated significantly ( P < .001) higher values of MDA and lower level of vitamin C in the patient group (4.41 ± 0.76 μmol/mL and 18.31 ± 0.84 μmol/L, respectively) compared with control (1.81 ± 0.70 μmol/mL and 29.72 ± 1.06 μmol/L, respectively). Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between the serum level of MDA and vitamin C for both patient ( r = −0.023, P = .887) and control group ( r = −0.142, P = .383). This study also revealed that the trace elements (Zn, Cu) were significantly ( P < .05) lower in epileptics (68.32 ± 4.59 and 50.81 ± 2.54 μg/dL, respectively) where the level of Mn in patients (187.71 ± 9.04 μg/dL) was almost similar to that of the control group ( P > .05). The univariate analysis demonstrated that zinc <70 μg/dL (odds ratio = 3.56, P < .05) and copper <50 μg/dL were associated (odds ratio = 14.73, P < .001) with an increased risk of epilepsy. Establishment of interelement relationship strongly supported that there was a disturbance in the element homeostasis of epileptic patients. Conclusions. The study results strengthen the role of lipid peroxidation, antioxidants and trace elements in the pathogenesis and warrant larger studies to investigate the association of these biochemical parameters with epilepsy.
Short-Term Impact of tDCS Over the Right Inferior Frontal Cortex on Impulsive Responses in a Go/No-go Task
Authors: Campanella Salvatore , Schroder Elisa , Vanderhasselt Marie-Anne , Baeken Chris , Kornreich Charles , Verbanck Paul , Burle Boris
Published: May 2018

Inhibitory control, a process deeply studied in laboratory settings, refers to the ability to inhibit an action once it has been initiated. A common way to process data in such tasks is to take the mean response time (RT) and error rate per participant. However, such an analysis ignores the strong dependency between spontaneous RT variations and error rate. Conditional accuracy function (CAF) is of particular interest, as by plotting the probability of a response to be correct as a function of its latency, it provides a means for studying the strength of impulsive responses associated with a higher frequency of fast response errors. This procedure was applied to a recent set of data in which the right inferior frontal gyrus (rIFG) was modulated using transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Healthy participants (n = 40) were presented with a “Go/No-go” task (click on letter M, not on letter W, session 1). Then, one subgroup (n = 20) was randomly assigned to one 20-minutes neuromodulation session with tDCS (anodal electrode, rIFG; cathodal electrode, neck); and the other group (n = 20) to a condition with sham (placebo) tDCS. All participants were finally confronted to the same “Go/No-go” task (session 2). The rate of commission errors (click on W) and speed of response to Go trials were similar between sessions 1 and 2 in both neuromodulation groups. However, CAF showed that active tDCS over rIFG leads to a reduction of the drop in accuracy for fast responses (suggesting less impulsivity and greater inhibitory efficiency), this effect being only visible for the first experimental block following tDCS stimulation. Overall, the present data indicate that boosting the rIFG may be useful to enhance inhibitory skills, but that CAF could be of the greatest relevance to monitor the temporal dynamics of the neuromodulation effect.
De novo aneurysm formation of a feeder artery after embolization of a dural arteriovenous fistula and rupture during second embolization
Authors: Sun Shouyuan , Ji Yongping , Ji Wenjun , Liu Aihua , Wu Zhongxue
Published: May 2018

Objective

Hemorrhage during embolization of dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is a rare but devastating complication. This study was undertaken to analyze the causes of hemorrhage and avoid complication.

Methods

The clinical data of a case of DAVF with hemorrhagic complication were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

The patient in this case presented with DAVF and two de novo aneurysms of a feeder artery after the first embolization. One de novo aneurysm ruptured during the second embolization of the DAVF because of hemodynamic change. Computed tomography showed a subdural hematoma, and surgical exploration was emergently performed. However, the patient died at postoperative day 10.

Conclusions

De novo aneurysm of a feeder artery may form after embolization of DAVF because of hemodynamic change. It has a high risk of rupture and should be a primary consideration in embolization of DAVF.
Mode transition control for single-shaft parallel hybrid electric vehicle using model predictive control approach
Authors: Wang Shaohua , Xia Bin , He Chunrong , Zhang Sheng , Shi Dehua
Published: May 2018

Due to the special structure characteristics, the switching process control from pure electrical driving mode to compound driving mode of the single-shaft parallel hybrid powertrain has caught broad attentions from related researches. In this study, a novel mode transition control method based on model predictive control algorithm is proposed to regulate the starting and engaging processes into driveline of the engine via an automatic clutch. According to the system states evolution process, the system control commands, that is, the immediate output torques of the engine, the motor, and the clutch during the mode transition process, are determined online by the proposed model predictive control controller, which derives the optimal control sequences to minimize the defined objective function by adopting quadratic programming in the prediction horizon. To better demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed control method, a simulation analysis platform is built based on MATLAB/Simulink and AVL/Cruise. Simulation results show that the coordinated control method can effectively suppress the vehicle longitudinal jerk within the reasonable range and reduce the clutch wear loss during the mode transition process.
Transient response and frequency domain analysis of an electrically variable transmission
Authors: Galvagno Enrico , Vigliani Alessandro , Velardocchia Mauro
Published: May 2018

This article deals with the dynamic behavior of a passenger car equipped with an electrically variable transmission, which is analyzed both in time and frequency domains. After deriving the dynamic equations in the state-space form for both open- and closed-loop systems, a methodology for objectively evaluating the drivability of this over-actuated system is proposed. Several simulation results are presented with the aim of highlighting the transient response to fast engine torque changes and the effect of the generator speed controller calibration on the system dynamics. Moreover, the influence of the ratio between electrical and thermal power on the frequency response is discussed. The proposed analysis, which is based on a simple static torque split between internal combustion engine and propulsion electric motor, depicts the dynamic signature of the electrically variable transmission powertrain system, without any additional drivability filter. Hence, these results can constitute the base for the design of dynamic torque splitting aimed at optimizing the longitudinal vehicle response to the driver’s acceleration demand.
Hygrothermal performance of various Typha–clay composite
Authors: Niang Ibrahim , Maalouf Chadi , Moussa Tala , Bliard Christophe , Samin Etienne , Thomachot-Schneider Céline , Lachi Mohamed , Pron Hervé , Mai Ton Hoang , Gaye Salif
Published: May 2018

This article deals with the influence of both morphology and amount of Typha on hygrothermal behavior of a Typha–clay composite for building application. An agromaterial containing the fiber mix of Typha Australis and clay was made in three samples: three fiber mixtures were prepared with different amounts Typha and cut type (transversal or longitudinal). The physical properties of these materials were studied in terms of porosity, apparent and absolute density, thermal conductivity, and hygric properties. Results show a real impact of the Typha fraction type and its volume content on hygrothermal properties of the studied material due to the porosity. The transversal fraction of Typha (80% in volume weight) seems to be the optimal composition for a better hygrothermal behavior.
The influence of dynamic environmental conditions on capillary water uptake of building materials
Authors: Karagiannis Nikos , Karoglou Maria , Bakolas Asterios , Krokida Magdalini , Moropoulou Antonia
Published: May 2018

Water capillary absorption is one of the main water uptake mechanisms in building materials, affecting their overall durability. Thus, the investigation of their capillary rise kinetics can be very useful as regards understanding buildings behavior, contributing to the increase of their durability and their service life. For this reason, a first-order mathematical model was used describing the capillary water uptake under dynamic environmental conditions (different air velocity, air temperature, and relative air humidity) for various natural and artificial building materials. This model successfully fits the experimental data. From the results, it was found that both building materials’ intrinsic characteristics and environmental conditions influence the capillary rise kinetics. In order to assess the validity of the proposed model, a comparison with a similar model was performed. The fitting of the utilized model was more accurate because of the incorporation of the environmental parameters into it. Finally, the proposed model was utilized in order to predict the capillary water uptake under hypothetical extreme weather real-case scenarios. It was found that the proposed model can successfully predict the capillary water uptake under different real-case environmental conditions. The applicability of this semi-empirical model, using parameters with physical meaning, could make it suitable for use in building simulators. This model can contribute to risk assessment tools, dealing with various challenges related to climate change and its effect upon built environment.
Diagnosis of functioning incidences from judicial claims in building installations in Spain
Authors: Carretero-Ayuso Manuel J , Moreno-Cansado Alberto , García-Sanz-Calcedo Justo
Published: May 2018

Building facilities are an important part of construction, given that they interact with the rest of the building and may generate complaints from and dissatisfaction among the users, with subsequent litigation in courts. Expert reports used during judicial processes resulting from user complaints constitute an original source of knowledge on incidences in facilities. This article analyses the anomalies detected in 15 different types of installations from a total of 496 buildings under study, in which judicial claims were filed between 2008 and 2010, in Spain. In total, 854 incidences were found. The material damages and causes and consequences were analysed. These incidences were categorised qualitatively and quantitatively, and the most recurrent situations were studied. Through statistical analysis, the building typology, climate and location with the greatest likelihood of manifesting problems in each facility were determined, as well as the complaint risk factor per facility. It was also detected that most of the incidences (41.34%) were caused by lack of water-tightness in the facilities. With this information, technicians will be able to detect the most conflicting points and reduce failures in the execution of their projects, thus improving building construction quality.
Does task-irrelevant colour information create extraneous cognitive load? Evidence from a learning task
Authors: Miller Paul , Hazan-Liran Batel , Cohen Danielle
Published: May 2018

Previous studies have shown that task-irrelevant information impedes learning by creating extraneous cognitive load. But still open is whether such intrusion reflects a purely semantic phenomenon or whether it also stands for sheer perceptual interference. Using Cognitive Load Theory as a framework, this study aimed to answer this question by examining whether and how task-irrelevant colour information modifies extraneous cognitive load in relation to a new code-learning paradigm. For this purpose, university students were asked to learn, based on an example, associations between colour-related and colour-unrelated words and digits presented in black or in a mismatched ink colour. Evident costs in learning efficacy were found in learning the associations between words and digits for colour-related, but not for colour-unrelated, word stimuli. This suggests that interference by task-irrelevant information in learning stands for a mere semantic conflict. Implications of the findings for extraneous cognitive load on learning efficacy are discussed.
Use of inertial measurement units for measuring torso and pelvis orientation, and shoulder–pelvis separation angle in the discus throw
Authors: Brice Sara M , Hurley Matthew , Phillips Elissa J
Published: May 2018

Wearable technologies, such as inertial measurement units, are being increasingly utilised in sport to provide immediate feedback to athletes and coaches on movement dynamics. This study examines the validity of inertial measurement units for measuring data pertinent to discus throwing namely shoulder–pelvis separation angle, and torso and pelvis transverse plane orientation. Five discus throwers performed 10 throws, while shoulder–pelvis separation angle, and torso and pelvis transverse plane orientation were measured simultaneously using a motion capture system and inertial measurement unit system. Time-series torso and pelvis orientation data were compared to determine the validity of the inertial measurement unit system for measuring the segment orientation. Discrete shoulder–pelvis separation angle data were compared to determine the validity of the inertial measurement unit system for measuring the discrete data pertinent to discus throwers and coaches. Discrete data examined were magnitudes of separation that occurred when the torso was maximally rotated to the left and right. Data were compared using root mean square difference and root mean square relative to angle range (RMS%). Bland–Altman analyses were also performed. Torso (RMS% = 3%) and pelvis (RMS% = 2%) orientation data agreed closely. Agreement was lower for separation angle (maximum left rotation RMS% = 9%; maximum right rotation RMS% = 13%). Bland–Altman biases indicate inertial measurement units underestimated segment orientation, underestimated maximum right rotation, and overestimated maximum left rotation. The protocol described was valid for measuring the torso and pelvis orientation. Separation angle validity was low, indicating differences in underlying modelling approaches. Further investigation is needed to examine more optimal sensor positioning, and novel ways of examining shoulder–pelvis dynamics.
Reversible pulmonary hypertension and high-output heart failure triggered by pregnancy in a patient with congenital arteriovenous malformation: A case report
Authors: Saavedra Héctor , Toncel Celina , Delgado Vanessa , Borré Orlando , Rojas-Suárez José
Published: May 2018

Background

Arteriovenous malformations rarely cause congestive heart failure. Pregnancy may in theory trigger heart failure associated with congenital arteriovenous malformations leading to secondary pulmonary hypertension, but no cases have been reported proving that condition.

Methods and results

We report a 23-year-old pregnant woman at 36 + 5 weeks of gestation requiring urgent medical care because of shortness of breath. High-output heart failure was suspected, and a congenital arteriovenous malformation on the right scapular region was considered as the possible origin. The patient required urgent caesarean delivery because of ongoing cardiac failure, which improved soon after delivery. Postpartum angiography of the right subclavian artery revealed an arteriovenous malformation on the deltoid region with venous drainage through the subclavian vein and increased flow to the superior cava vein and right atrium.

Conclusion

A high index of suspicion of arteriovenous malformations should be maintained in pregnant women with cutaneous vascular malformation-like lesions, if symptoms of heart failure are present.
Primary hyperaldosteronism presenting as persistent postpartum hypertension: Illustrative case and systematic review
Authors: Kilmartin Caitlin , Opu Touhid , Podymow Tiina , Dayan Natalie
Published: May 2018

We present a case of persistent postpartum hypertension found to be secondary to primary hyperaldosteronism in a woman with a history of recurrent hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and associated fetal complications. Our systematic review revealed only 18 cases of primary aldosteronism diagnosed in women with postpartum hypertension, suggesting that this disorder is under-studied in the postpartum period. A review of these cases suggests that women with primary hyperaldosteronism commonly present with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, but may only be identified de novo postpartum. However, a high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose primary hyperaldosteronism in the postpartum period, guided by a woman’s obstetric history.
Safety and tolerability of adalimumab for the treatment of psoriasis: a review summarizing 15 years of real-life experience
Authors: Sator Paul
Published: May 2018

Biologic therapies like adalimumab are the gold standard for psoriasis treatment with efficacy and safety profiles allowing for long-term treatment. However, adalimumab cannot be used in all patients and may cause adverse drug reactions. This study reviews conditions that might limit the use of adalimumab under real-life conditions. Local injection site reactions affect 12–37% of patients but rarely require specific therapy. Dermatological adverse events (AEs) include the paradoxical psoriasis and tend to respond to adequate therapy without adalimumab discontinuation. Adalimumab increases the risk for infections; latent chronic infections like tuberculosis or hepatitis B/C impose the highest risk for serious AEs. However, administration of adalimumab may still be possible under appropriate monitoring or prophylactic therapy. Some studies indicate an increased risk of malignancies in patients with psoriasis exposed to adalimumab. Here, the causal relationship is unclear since both psoriasis and some first-line therapies increase the risk of malignancies. Depression frequently coincides with psoriasis and may respond to adalimumab as well. Cardiovascular diseases are contraindications for adalimumab, but evidence suggests that adalimumab may still be a treatment option. Overall AE rates range from 245 to 399 per 100 patient years (serious AEs: 6–23; death: 1–2). Thus, adalimumab is slightly less safe than ustekinumab and infliximab but exhibits superior effectiveness and drug survival. Adalimumab is safe for pregnant women during the first trimester, for children up to 4 years and for the elderly. Thus, in spite of several conditions that require specific attention, the favourable safety and tolerability of adalimumab for the treatment of psoriasis is confirmed.
Vection Is Enhanced by Increased Exposure to Optic Flow
Authors: Seno Takeharu , Murata Kayoko , Fujii Yoshitaka , Kanaya Hidetoshi , Ogawa Masaki , Tokunaga Kousuke , Palmisano Stephen
Published: May 2018

We examined whether vection strength could be modulated by altering the exposure duration to optic flow. Experiment 1 sourced 150 different video clips from various Japanese animation works which simulated self-motion. Despite large differences in the content of these video clips, we found a significant positive correlation between their play durations and their ratings of vection magnitude. Experiment 2 examined this relationship further using more tightly controlled visual motion stimuli. Vection was induced by presenting the motion of the same expanding grating stimulus for 8, 16, 32, or 64 seconds. While vection onset latencies remained constant across these four conditions, vection magnitude/strength was found to increase systematically with the exposure duration. As predicted by a recent computational model of vection, we conclude that subjective vection strength does depend on the exposure duration to optic flow.
View From Outside the Viewing Sphere
Authors: Koenderink Jan , van Doorn Andrea , Pepperell Robert
Published: May 2018

The ‘viewing sphere’, as defined by Euclid and explored by Gibson as the ‘optic array’, is generally thought of as wrapped around the eye. Can an observer step out of it? With currently popular photographic techniques, the spectator is forced to, because the viewing sphere is presented as a pictorial object. Then the question is whether human observers are able to use such pictorial representations in an intuitive manner. Can the spectator ‘mentally step into the interior’ of the pictorial viewing sphere? We explore this issue in a short experiment. Perhaps unsurprisingly, because the eye cannot see itself, the short answer is no.
Human Echolocation for Target Detection Is More Accurate With Emissions Containing Higher Spectral Frequencies, and This Is Explained by Echo Intensity
Authors: Norman L. J. , Thaler L.
Published: May 2018

Humans can learn to use acoustic echoes to detect and classify objects. Echolocators typically use tongue clicks to induce these echoes, and there is some evidence that higher spectral frequency content of an echolocator’s tongue click is associated with better echolocation performance. This may be explained by the intensity of the echoes. The current study tested experimentally (a) if emissions with higher spectral frequencies lead to better performance for target detection, and (b) if this is mediated by echo intensity. Participants listened to sound recordings that contained an emission and sometimes an echo from an object. The peak spectral frequency of the emission was varied between 3.5 and 4.5 kHz. Participants judged whether they heard the object in these recordings and did the same under conditions in which the intensity of the echoes had been digitally equated. Participants performed better using emissions with higher spectral frequencies, but this advantage was eliminated when the intensity of the echoes was equated. These results demonstrate that emissions with higher spectral frequencies can benefit echolocation performance in conditions where they lead to an increase in echo intensity. The findings suggest that people who train to echolocate should be instructed to make emissions (e.g. mouth clicks) with higher spectral frequency content.
Traditional clinical criteria outperform high-sensitivity C-reactive protein for the screening of hepatic nuclear factor 1 alpha maturity-onset diabetes of the young among young Asians with diabetes
Authors: Rama Chandran Suresh , Bhalshankar Jaydutt , Farhad Vasanwala Rashida , Zhao Yi , Owen Katharine R. , Su-Lyn Gardner Daphne
Published: May 2018

Background:

Young adults with diabetes in Asia represent a heterogeneous group. Using traditional clinical criteria to preselect individuals for testing for maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) may exclude a large proportion from testing. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has shown promise as a biomarker to differentiate hepatic nuclear factor 1 alpha ( HNF1A)-MODY from type 2 diabetes. We aimed to compare the use of hs-CRP as a biomarker versus traditional criteria, to guide testing for HNF1A-MODY among a cohort of young adults with diabetes in Singapore.

Methods:

A total of 252 adults (age of onset ⩽45 years) and 20 children with diabetes were recruited. Using traditional criteria (family history of diabetes and onset of diabetes ⩽25 years) and an hs-CRP cut off of ⩽0.5 mg/l, 125 and 37 adults, respectively, were identified for HNF1A gene testing. All children underwent HNF1A gene testing.

Results:

Five adults (5/143, 3.5%) with HNF1A-MODY were identified. There were no HNF1A gene mutations among the children. Traditional criteria correctly identified all five HNF1A-MODY individuals (5/125, 4%), while applying an hs-CRP level of ⩽0.5 mg/l selected just 1 of these 5 for HNF1A gene testing (1/37, 2.7%). None of those with a positive GAD antibody or undetectable C-peptide level had HNF1A-MODY.

Conclusion:

The use of hs-CRP to guide screening for HNF1A-MODY among Asian young adults with diabetes did not improve the diagnostic yield. Applying a combination of age of onset of diabetes under 25 years and a family history of diabetes alone could guide targeted HNF1A-MODY screening in Asians, with an expected yield of 4% diagnosed with HNF1A-MODY among those screened.
Inhibition of return regarding body images in women with shape/weight-based self-worth
Authors: Forsyth Mimosa , Rieger Elizabeth , Bell Jason
Published: May 2018

The present study examined attentional biases to female body images in young adult (aged 17–30 years) Caucasian females with high versus low levels of shape/weight-based self-worth. Using an inhibition of return (IOR) task, we measured how readily participants were able to disengage attention from nonthin and thin-ideal body images. In response to nonthin body images, the Low group (i.e., participants with low levels of shape/weight-based self-worth) displayed increased IOR toward the body images relative to the High group (i.e., participants with elevated shape/weight-based self-worth). Our results suggest that women with low levels of shape/weight-based self-worth possess a potential protective mechanism that allows them to more readily disengage attention from nonthin images compared to women who base their self-worth on shape/weight. These findings provide a new focus for investigating attentional processes in individuals at risk of eating disorders, as they relate to the ongoing processing of body-related imagery beyond initial attentional capture.
Magnetic resonance imaging: Physics basics for the cardiologist
Authors: Vassiliou Vassilios S , Cameron Donnie , Prasad Sanjay K , Gatehouse Peter D
Published: May 2018

Magnetic resonance imaging physics can be a complex and challenging topic for the practising cardiologist. Its evolving nature and the increasing number of novel sequences used in clinical scanning have been topics of excellent reviews; however, the basic understanding of physics underlying the creation of images remains difficult for many cardiologists. In this review, we go back to the basic physics theories underpinning magnetic resonance and explain their application and use in achieving good quality cardiac imaging, whilst describing established and novel magnetic resonance sequences. By understanding these basic principles, it is anticipated that cardiologists and other health professionals will then appreciate more advanced physics manuscripts on cardiac scanning and novel sequences.
The importance of radiological results in distal radius fracture operations: Functional outcome after long-term (6.5 years) follow-up
Authors: Raudasoja L , Vastamäki H , Raatikainen T
Published: May 2018

Background and Aims:

Whether or not radiological results correlate with functional outcome after operative treatment of distal radius fractures still remains controversial. We carried out a retrospective study to analyse the long-term (6.5 year) outcome of radius fractures treated by means of surgery in our hospital. The aim of the study was to explore whether step-off on radius joint surface, shortening of the radius versus ulnar height and dorsal or volar tilt of the radius correlate with long-term Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation or Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores among 100 consecutive patients after surgical treatment.

Materials and Methods:

Of these, 60 patients (63 wrists) participated. They were examined radiologically, clinically and by means of a questionnaire.

Results:

Shortening of the radius correlated significantly with both Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation and Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores. Step-off on the radius joint surface correlated significantly with worse PRWE scores, with no difference in Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand evaluation. Dorsal or volar tilt showed no statistical correlation (though it was mild in this group). The age of the patients (below 60 years vs 60 years or above) did not affect the PRWE or Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand results.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate that when it comes to conserving the radial height and congruence of the joint surface, the more precise the reduction of the fracture achieved by surgical means, the better the functional outcome.
Prevalence and risk factor analysis for feline haemoplasmas in cats from Northern Serbia, with molecular subtyping of feline immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Sarvani Elpida , Tasker Séverine , Kovacˇević Filipović Milica , Francuski Andrić Jelena , Andrić Nenad , Aquino Larissa , English Sarah , Attipa Charalampos , Leutenegger Christian M , Helps Chris R , Papasouliotis Kostas
Published: May 2018

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of feline haemoplasma infections in Northern Serbia, identify potential risk factors and perform molecular subtyping of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).

Methods

PCR analysis for feline haemoplasmas was performed on surplus EDTA blood samples from 373 cats from the Belgrade region, Serbia. An ELISA was used to determine the prevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and FIV; PCR was performed on a subpopulation of these cats. FIV subtyping was performed using PCR.

Results

Within this population, 64/373 cats (17.2%) were infected with one or more haemoplasma species. Mycoplasma haemofelis was detected in 20/373 cats (5.4%), ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ in 47/373 cats (12.6%) and ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ in 23/373 cats (6.2%). Coinfections were observed in 21/373 cats (5.6%). Based on ELISA serological retroviral testing, 4/310 cats (1.3%) were infected with FeLV, whereas 78/331 (23.6%) were infected with FIV. Multivariable analysis identified significant associations between haemoplasma infection and anaemia (anaemic/non-anaemic, odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–7.1; P = 0.041]), male gender (male/female, OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.22–9.03; P <0.0005), outdoor access (yes/no, OR 5.2, 95% CI 2.28–11.92; P <0.0005), non-pedigree breed (non-pedigree/pedigree, OR 5.5, 95% CI 1.24–24.84; P = 0.025) and FIV seropositive status (positive/negative, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.21–4.83; P = 0.012). PCR analysis of the FIV ELISA-positive samples revealed clade D as being the most prevalent.

Conclusions and relevance

All three known species of feline haemoplasma were detected, confirming their presence in Serbia; ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ was the most prevalent. We found a high prevalence of FIV-infected cats and FIV clade D was most prevalent.
Targeting effect on gait parameters in healthy individuals and post-stroke hemiparetic individuals
Authors: Rastegarpanah Alireza , Scone Thomas , Saadat Mozafar , Rastegarpanah Mohammad , Taylor Stephen JG , Sadeghein Niloofar
Published: May 2018

Background

A targeting effect may occur in any gait analysis trial where the participant is instructed to step in a particular area or a clearly marked target is in their path. The targeting effect may affect the gait parameters and any variability being studied in regard to the participants. There are few studies examining this effect for healthy subjects and none for special populations.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate if any targeting effects occurred in healthy and stroke-survivor populations. Eight male participants were recruited, four of whom exhibited right-hand side hemiparesis resulting from stroke. Each participant performed a series of gait trials at a comfortable walking pace after being made aware of the force plate in the centre of the walkway. The participants gait was then analysed and compared before and after the target force plate.

Results

The results of the trials showed significant variations ( p < 0.005) in the spatiotemporal gait parameters in both the healthy and stroke-survivor groups indicating a targeting effect.

Conclusions

The effects were similar in both groups with the step speed and length being slower and shorter for the targeting step compared to the step after the force plate.
Imaging review of the anterior skull base
Authors: Francies Olivia , Makalanda Levan , Paraskevopolous Dimitris , Adams Ashok
Published: May 2018

The anterior skull base (ASB) is intimately associated with the unique soft tissue subtypes of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses, orbits, and intracranial compartment. Pathology involving the ASB is rare but the causes are manifold and can be broadly subdivided into those intrinsic to the skull base and processes extending from below or above. Sinonasal pathology is the most commonly encountered and poses significant management challenges that rely heavily on accurate interpretation of the radiological findings. We illustrate the normal anatomy of the ASB and present a cross-sectional imaging review of the pathological entities that may be encountered, focusing on the specific features that will impact on clinical and surgical management.
The Role of Police Officer Race/Ethnicity on Crime Rates in Immigrant Communities
Authors: Chenane Joselyne L. , Wright Emily M.
Published: May 2018

Few studies have examined the role of city police officer racial/ethnic representation on violent crime in immigrant neighborhoods. Yet police officer race/ethnicity might play a significant role in bolstering or weakening the relationship between immigration and violent crime rates. Researchers have posited that increasing the representation of minority officer would be an important avenue for making police departments more accountable to the communities they serve. The current study contributes to existing research by using national (i.e., 89 cities and 8,980 neighborhoods) data on violent crime from large U.S. cities. We examine the relationship between immigration, violent crime rates, and minority police officer representation using multilevel modeling techniques. Results indicate that neighborhood immigrant concentration is associated with lower robbery and homicide rates. Moreover, the negative relationship between immigrant concentration and violent crime rates is strengthened by city African American and Hispanic officer representation. Policy implications for law enforcement are discussed.
Relationship Role Transitions and Problem Alcohol Use in Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Egerton Gregory A. , Read Jennifer P.
Published: May 2018

Normative reductions in problematic drinking behavior throughout emerging adulthood are often described as “maturing out.” Theories of maturing out most often implicate developmental role changes as a primary determinant of this process—particularly relationship roles. Previous work has commonly focused on macro-level role changes (e.g., marriage, parenthood) and larger timescales, examining roles that change from year to year. Smaller, shorter term changes (i.e., incremental changes) in roles that likely evolve during young adulthood seldom have been tested. Accordingly, the current study examined short-term, temporally proximal associations among incremental relationship transitions and problematic drinking during the transition out of college. We found that incrementally deeper relationship involvement prospectively predicted problematic drinking reductions during this period and that this did not differ based on graduation status. Findings support the importance of incremental, microlevel changes in relationship involvement for drinking behavior in emerging adulthood.
Lumbar Interbody Fusions for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: Review of Techniques, Indications, and Outcomes
Authors: Spiker William Ryan , Goz Vadim , Brodke Darrel S.
Published: May 2018

Study Design:

Broad narrative review.

Objectives:

To review and summarize the current literature on the outcomes, techniques, and indications of lumbar interbody fusion in degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Methods:

A thorough review of peer-reviewed literature was performed on the outcomes, techniques, and indications of lumbar interbody fusions in degenerative spondylolisthesis.

Results:

A number of studies have found similar results between interbody fusions and posterolateral fusion in the setting of degenerative spondylolisthesis. There is some evidence that suggests that interbody fusion may be a useful adjunct in the setting of unstable degenerative spondylolisthesis. The number of options for interbody fusions has quickly expanded. Initially, interbody fusions were accomplished via an anterior approach. Posterior and transforaminal interbody fusions are 2 options that accomplish an interbody fusion without the morbidity of an anterior approach. Over the past decade, minimally invasive options including extreme lateral, oblique, and minimally invasive transforaminal interbody fusions have gained popularity.

Conclusions:

Lumbar interbody fusion can be a useful tool in the setting of unstable degenerative spondylolisthesis. A number of technique options, both open and minimally invasive, are available to accomplish an interbody fusion. The literature to this date does not support a clear benefit of one technique over others in the setting of degenerative spondylolisthesis.
Does the Board Structure Affect the Asset Quality of the Banks? Evidence from India
Authors: Gafoor C. P. Abdul , Mariappan V. , Thiyagarajan S.
Published: May 2018

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) argue that poor asset quality is an outcome of the failure of bank boards in effectively monitoring the management in terms of loan policies and compliance. The current study explores the influence of board structure (board size, board independence, CEO duality, financial expertise and board meeting) on asset quality of banks, using a sample of 36 scheduled commercial banks operating in India during the period from 2001 to 2014. After addressing the issue of endogeneity, the study finds that the proportions of independent directors and financial experts have significant positive impact on asset quality. It also concludes that board size, number of board meetings and CEO duality have no significant impact on asset quality.
Volatility Spillovers across Major Emerging Stock Markets
Authors: Kumar Surender , MoonHaque Moon , Sharma Prashant
Published: May 2018

Emerging stock markets of Asia have become a matter of interest for international financial researchers and policy-makers during the last couple of decades. Series of reforms, increasing financial transparency and decreasing restrictions on transactions have made these markets better diversification opportunities for international investors. This paper examines independently as well the linkages of stock markets across the selected Asian countries. The volatility spillover is modelled through an asymmetric multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic model. In large number of empirical studies of risk return analysis, it is observed that economic stability and good perspectives have been key assets for the development of emerging markets. Diversification of funds to reduce portfolio risk is also one of the point of attraction to domestic and foreign institutional investors. In this work, risk and uncertainty is studied for selected stock markets of emerging economies of Asia. Data of daily stock prices of selected markets is collected for recent decade and detail autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (ARCH) and its generalised models are used to estimate conditional and asymmetric volatilities.
Outfitting the Office: An Experiential Health and Safety Exercise
Authors: Robertson Kirsten M. , Chase Hayley , Castonguay Arianna
Published: May 2018

We created the “Outfitting the Office” exercise to increase student engagement with health and safety concepts in introductory human resource management courses. The experiential exercise consists of two phases: (1) hazard recognition in a typical office and print room setting and (2) office design with a focus on employee health and wellness. The first phase was developed as an introductory activity to get students working together in their teams and to sensitize them to safety considerations. The second, longer, phase provides students with the opportunity to apply their readings in a decision-making scenario. In this scenario, students simulate a human resources firm that is tasked with renovating and furnishing a healthy and safe office space. Feedback from students indicates that this exercise is a fun and engaging way to learn about the health and safety factors that can affect worker comfort and enhance individual, team, and organizational productivity.
Creating spaces of public insecurity in times of terror: The implications of code/space for urban vulnerability analyses
Authors: Patrick Keenan Kevin
Published: May 2018

From data leaks of sensitive information to the degrading or halting of complete systems upon which integral societal process rely, there are daily reminders of the precariousness of networked institutions. This form of vulnerability extends beyond services to also threaten foundational values, such as privacy, movement, and free speech. Yet, given the awareness of vulnerability to cyber disruption, little is known about how massive cyber failures might disrupt the lives of ordinary people at a micro-scale. Because technology is imbued in everyday life, and people use internet systems in bundled, complex ways to accomplish a myriad of unknown activities, a complicated web of cyber-vulnerability likely exists. Thus, the goal of this paper is to explore one dimension of this vulnerability as it pertains to public security. Terrorism is predicted to remain an urban phenomenon, and terrorists are increasingly exploiting cyber-systems. The aims of terrorism to disrupt democratic systems are perfectly achieved by cyber disruption, and this paper explores how those goals were facilitated during the Boston Marathon Bombing in 2013. By drawing on interviews with public safety officials and ordinary people who relied on the internet and linked technology during that emergency, I demonstrate the complex ways that cyber-systems limited the effectiveness of public security in times of terror. The results suggest a rethinking of the social amplification of risk paradigm that dominates in risk hazards research as well as several policy interventions in security communication and information dissemination, population management during crisis, and resilience.
Demographic Changes in Rural America and the Implications for Special Education Programming: A Descriptive and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Johnson Jerry , Ohlson Matthew A. , Shope Shane
Published: May 2018

In this descriptive and comparative study, we present results highlighting the complexity and scope of the challenges facing rural districts as they navigate the changing demographics of the students and families they serve. Rapid increases in the number and concentration of racially, culturally, and linguistically diverse students in rural areas may have significant implications for teaching and learning. In the face of these changes, rural districts may lack the financial, human, and logistical resources to meet these increasing demands. Viewed within the context of the salient literatures and attentive to the dynamics of organizational change, the results support recommendations for a variety of school- and district-based strategies and send a clear message to policymakers, educators, and others concerned with the education of rural youth, rural families, and rural communities: the need is real and growing in intensity, and there is a role and responsibility for all stakeholders to play.
Comparative analysis of affective and physiological responses to emotional movies
Authors: Kim Dongkeun , Cho Yongjoo , Park Kyoung Shin
Published: May 2018

In this research, we investigated on user’s affective and physiological responses to the emotional movies. The emotional movies provide continuous feedback such as changes in saturation, brightness and contrast of the movie in response to users’ emotional states. In the user study, the subjects watched the emotional movies, edited by fearful and joyful scenes, and presented in 2D and 3D formats. The subject’s self-reported emotion responses and their physiological signals were analyzed. The results highlight the importance of scenes (such as, the color, tone, and brightness of the scene) than 2D or 3D format in understanding the impact of users’ emotional responses. More physiological emotional changes, positive user responses and higher correlation rate between physiological and subjective responses were evident for joyful scene than fearful scene when presented in 3D format.
Computation of effective elastic properties of clay from X-ray texture goniometry data
Authors: Louis Laurent , Day-Stirrat Ruarri , Hofmann Ronny , Saxena Nishank , Schleicher Anja M.
Published: May 2018

We have developed a new method for estimating the contribution of a pure clay fraction (i.e., devoid of organic matter) to the total effective rock stiffness. The method is based on published clay mineral stiffness data and on an original preferred clay mineral orientation data set obtained by X-ray texture goniometry on 56 samples of Kimmeridgian and Devonian age from two North American shale plays. We find that (1) large variability in preferred orientation of clay results in moderate variability in effective clay elastic anisotropy and (2) the effect of variations in the preferred orientation on effective rock properties is small compared with the effects of variations in clay abundance. As a result, a single clay elastic tensor is computed to be used in effective medium models. In addition, to account for various degrees of hydration, water is incorporated into the dry clay tensor through inclusion models. In situations in which isotropic approximations are necessary, we also provide apparent bulk and shear moduli for a hydrated clay fraction as a function of porosity and propagation angle.