bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pain Management After Outpatient Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Secrist Eric S. , Freedman Kevin B. , Ciccotti Michael G. , Mazur Donald W. , Hammoud Sommer
Published: December 2015

Background:

Effective pain management after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction improves patient satisfaction and function.

Purpose:

To collect and evaluate the available evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on pain control after ACL reconstruction.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

A systematic literature review was performed using PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, UpToDate, Cochrane Reviews, CINAHL, and Scopus following PRISMA guidelines (July 2014). Only RCTs comparing a method of postoperative pain control to another method or placebo were included.

Results:

A total of 77 RCTs met inclusion criteria: 14 on regional nerve blocks, 21 on intra-articular injections, 4 on intramuscular/intravenous injections, 12 on multimodal regimens, 6 on oral medications, 10 on cryotherapy/compression, 6 on mobilization, and 5 on intraoperative techniques. Single-injection femoral nerve blocks provided superior analgesia to placebo for up to 24 hours postoperatively; however, this also resulted in a quadriceps motor deficit. Indwelling femoral catheters utilized for 2 days postoperatively provided superior analgesia to a single-injection femoral nerve block. Local anesthetic injections at the surgical wound site or intra-articularly provided equivalent analgesia to regional nerve blocks. Continuous-infusion catheters of a local anesthetic provided adequate pain relief but have been shown to cause chondrolysis. Cryotherapy improved analgesia compared to no cryotherapy in 4 trials, while in 4 trials, ice water and water at room temperature provided equivalent analgesic effects. Early weightbearing decreased pain compared to delayed weightbearing. Oral gabapentin given preoperatively and oral zolpidem given for the first week postoperatively each decreased opioid consumption as compared to placebo. Ibuprofen reduced pain compared to acetaminophen. Oral ketorolac reduced pain compared to hydrocodone-acetaminophen.

Conclusion:

Regional nerve blocks and intra-articular injections are both effective forms of analgesia. Cryotherapy-compression appears to be beneficial, provided that intra-articular temperatures are sufficiently decreased. Early mobilization reduces pain symptoms. Gabapentin, zolpidem, ketorolac, and ibuprofen decrease opioid consumption. Despite the vast amount of high-quality evidence on this topic, further research is needed to determine the optimal multimodal approach that can maximize recovery while minimizing pain and opioid consumption.

Clinical Relevance:

These results provide the best available evidence from RCTs on pain control regimens after ACL reconstruction.
An In Vitro Robotic Assessment of the Anterolateral Ligament, Part 1
Authors: Rasmussen Matthew T. , Nitri Marco , Williams Brady T. , Moulton Samuel G. , Cruz Raphael Serra , Dornan Grant J. , Goldsmith Mary T. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Recent investigations have described the structural and functional behavior of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) of the knee through pull-apart and isolated sectioning studies. However, the secondary stabilizing role of the ALL in the setting of a complete anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear has not been fully defined for common simulated clinical examinations, such as the pivot-shift, anterior drawer, and internal rotation tests.

Hypothesis:

Combined sectioning of the ALL and ACL would lead to increased internal rotation and increased axial plane translation during a pivot-shift test when compared with isolated sectioning of the ACL.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Ten fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees were subjected to a simulated pivot-shift test with coupled 10-N·m valgus and 5-N·m internal rotation torques from 0° to 60° of knee flexion and a 5-N·m internal rotation torque and an 88-N anterior tibial load, both from 0° to 120° of knee flexion via a 6 degrees of freedom robotic system. Kinematic changes were measured and compared with the intact state for isolated sectioning of the ACL and combined sectioning of the ACL and ALL.

Results:

Combined sectioning of the ACL and ALL resulted in a significant increase in axial plane tibial translation during a simulated pivot shift at 0°, 15°, 30°, and 60° of knee flexion and a significant increase in internal rotation at 0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75°, 90°, 105°, and 120° when compared with the intact and ACL-deficient states. Based on the model results, ALL sectioning resulted in an additional 2.1 mm (95% CI, 1.4-2.9 mm; P < .001) of axial plane translation during the pivot shift when compared with ACL-only sectioning, when pooling evidence over all flexion angles. Likewise, when subjected to IR torque, the ACL+ALL-deficient state resulted in an additional 3.2° of internal rotation (95% CI, 2.4°-4.1°; P < .001) versus the intact state, and the additional sectioning of the ALL increased internal rotation by 2.7° (95% CI, 1.8°-3.6°; P < .001) versus the ACL-deficient state.

Conclusion:

The results of this study confirm the ALL as an important lateral knee structure that provides rotatory stability to the knee. Specifically, the ALL was a significant secondary stabilizer throughout flexion during an applied internal rotation torque and simulated pivot-shift test in the context of an ACL-deficient knee.

Clinical Relevance:

Residual internal rotation and a positive pivot shift after ACL reconstruction may be attributed to ALL injury. For these patients, surgical treatment of an ALL tear may be considered.
Synergic development of pharmacokinetics and bioanalytical methods as support of pharmaceutical research
Authors: Marzo M , Ciccarelli R , Di Iorio P , Giuliani P , Caciagli F , Marzo A
Published: December 2015

The development of pharmacokinetics led this science to achieve a relevant role in the investigation of new chemical entities for therapeutic application, and has allowed a series of new useful realizations of out of patent drugs like prolonged release and delayed release formulations, therapeutic delivery system (TDS) for drugs to be active in systemic circulation avoiding the first pass effect, orodispersible and effervescent formulations, intramuscular and subcutaneous depot formulations acting over a long period, oral inhalatory systems, and drug association at fixed dose. The above applications had pharmacokinetics as protagonist and have required the support from bioanalytical methods to assay drug concentrations, even in pg·mL−1 of plasma, that really have paralleled the synergic development of pharmacokinetics.

The complexity of the above realizations required specific guidelines from the regulatory authorities, mainly the US FDA and EU EMA, which have normalized and, in most cases, simplified the above applications admitting some waivers of in vivo bioequivalence.

However, this review highlights some critical points, not yet focused on by operating guidelines, which need to be clarified by regulatory authorities. One of the most relevant issues is about the planning and conducting bioavailability and bioequivalence trials with endogenous substances, that possess own homeostatic equilibria with fluctuations, in some cases with specific rhythms, like melatonin and female sex hormones. The baseline subtraction required by guidelines to define the net contribute to the exogenous absorbed drug in most cases is a non-solvable problem.
Evaluation of an oral appliance in patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea syndrome intolerant to continuous positive airway pressure use: Preliminary results
Authors: Cantore S , Ballini A , Farronato D , Malcangi G , Dipalma G , Assandri F , Garagiola U , Inchingolo F , De Vito D , Cirulli N
Published: December 2015

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a phenomenon of repeated, episodic reduction, or cessation of airflow (hypopnea/apnea) as a result of upper airways obstruction. First-line treatment in younger children is adenotonsillectomy, although other available treatment options in middle-aged adults include continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP) and airway adjuncts. Oral appliances (OA) are a viable treatment alternative in patients with OSAS.

The objective of this study was to assess, in a 1-year follow-up study, an OA in OSAS patients. The participants were subjected to polysomnographic examination with a validated device (MicroMESAM). Eight participants were fitted with a Thornton Adjustable Positioner (TAP). The participants were asked to wear the test appliance for 7 nights, and in case of compliance, for 6 months. The selected patients record their usage of the appliance and any adverse effects in a treatment journal. The research focused on the following outcomes: sleep apnea (i.e. reduction in the apnea/hypopnea index) and the effect of oral appliances on daytime function.

In conclusion, the results suggest that OA have a definite role in the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea.
Allopurinol-induced Sweet’s syndrome
Authors: Polimeni G , Cardillo R , Garaffo E , Giardina C , Macrì R , Sirna V , Guarneri C , Arcoraci V
Published: December 2015

Sweet’s syndrome, or acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis, is an uncommon severe cutaneous condition, not previously associated with allopurinol therapy. We describe the case of an 87-year-old woman with hyperuricemia who developed classic Sweet’s syndrome manifestations 8 days after being treated with allopurinol. Patient’s symptoms included fever, painful edema in the hands and lower limbs with non-pruritic erythematous plaques topped by pus-filled skin blisters, right eye conjunctivitis, splenomegaly and joint pain. At the emergency department, blood tests showed neutrophilic leukocytosis, inflammatory state and altered liver function. During hospitalization, she received unsuccessful treatments with two different antibiotics (namely ceftriaxone and levofloxacin), while treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone produced a rapid clinical remission of symptoms, cutaneous lesion pain improvement, normalization of her body temperature and her blood values returned to normal. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale indicated a probable relationship between the patient’s development of Sweet’s syndrome and allopurinol therapy. Because the signs and symptoms of Sweet’s syndrome resemble an infectious process, the correct diagnosis may be delayed and inappropriate treatment regimen with antibiotics may often precede glucocorticoid therapy.
Bullous pemphigoid in infant post vaccination: Myth or reality?
Authors: Neri Iria , Greco Antonella , Bassi Andrea , Orgaz-Molina Jacinto , Balestri Riccardo , Oranges Teresa , Patrizi Annalisa , de Martino Maurizio
Published: December 2015

Bullous pemphigoid is rare in children and even rarer in infants. By presenting two cases of bullous pemphigoid related by their temporal proximity with a previous episode of vaccination, it will be carefully discussed if a relationship is or is not possible. Our final conclusion is that the association is mostly a myth rather than a reality and bullous pemphigoid is not a contraindication to continue with the normal vaccination schedule of infants. It is important to know about this clinical entity in order to perform adequate treatment that avoids any worsening or future relapse of this disease.
Digital ulcers in scleroderma patients: A retrospective observational study
Authors: De Cata A , Inglese M , Molinaro F , De Cosmo S , Rubino R , Bernal M , Mazzoccoli G
Published: December 2015

Background:

The guidelines for digital ulcers (DUs) management in systemic sclerosis (SSc) indicate the use of iloprost to induce wound healing and bosentan to prevent the onset of new DU. The aim of our study was to evaluate whether the combination treatment may surmount the effect of the single drug.

Methods:

We analyzed data regarding 34 patients with SSc and at least one active DU persisting despite 6 months of iloprost therapy, and treated for other 6 months with a combination therapy, i.e. iloprost plus bosentan.

Results:

Overall, patients initially presented 69 DUs (58 on the fingers and 11 on the legs). At the end of the study 34 (49.3%) DUs were completely healed (responding, R), 18 (26.1%) started the healing process (partially responding, PR), and 17 (24.6%) did not respond (NR) to therapy. No new DU was recorded and the ulcers localized on the legs did not respond to the combination therapy. Finally, data have been analyzed by dividing the patients in two groups according to the fibrosis level on the finger. In the group with mild fibrosis, 83.4% of DUs resulted with showing complete healing while, in the group with severe fibrosis, only 18% of DUs were healed ( P = 0.024).

Conclusion:

The treatment with iloprost plus bosentan is effective in determining healing of DUs in SSc patients with mild digital skin fibrosis. Conversely, the severity of skin fibrosis strongly influences the healing process of DUs. The study confirmed the efficacy of bosentan to prevent onset of new DUs.
Immunotoxicological impact of occupational and environmental nanoparticles exposure: The influence of physical, chemical, and combined characteristics of the particles
Authors: Pedata Paola , Petrarca Claudia , Garzillo Elpidio Maria , Di Gioacchino Mario
Published: December 2015

While nanotechnology is growing exponentially, the knowledge of the impact of nanoparticles (NPs) on public health and the environment is limited so far. Current nanomaterial research is focused on the applications of nanotechnology, whereas there is little information on exposure assessment and risk characterization associated with NPs. Therefore, it is essential that the factors influencing NPs associated hazards be studied. This review seeks to survey and evaluate the current literature in order to better understand the impact of both airborne and engineered NPs exposure, the mechanisms at the cellular level, and the factors influencing their immunotoxicity. In fact, NPs do have immunotoxicological significance, as immune cells in the bloodstream and tissues do act to eliminate or interact with NPs.

Proper characterization of the NPs as well as understanding the processes occurring on the NPs surface when in contact with biological systems is crucial to predict or exclude toxicological effects.
New miRNAs network in human mesenchymal stem cells derived from skin and amniotic fluid
Authors: Lazzarini R , Sorgentoni G , Caffarini M , Sayeed MA , Olivieri F , Di Primio R , Orciani M
Published: December 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), isolated from different adult sources, have great appeal for therapeutic applications due to their simple isolation, extensive expansion potential, and high differentiative potential.

In our previous studies we isolated MSCs form amniotic fluid (AF-MSCs) and skin (S-MSCs) and characterized them according to their phenotype, pluripotency, and mRNA/microRNAs (miRNAs) profiling using Card A from Life Technologies.

Here, we enlarge the profiling of AF-MCSs and S-MSCs to the more recently discovered miRNAs (Card B by Life Technologies) to identify the miRNAs putative target genes and the relative signaling pathways. Card B, in fact, contains miRNAs whose role and target are not yet elucidated.

The expression of the analyzed miRNAs is changing between S-MSCs and AF-MSCs, indicating that these two types of MSCs show differences potentially related to their source. Interestingly, the pathways targeted by the miRNAS deriving from Card B are the same found during the analysis of miRNAs from Card A.

This result confirms the key role played by WNT and TGF-β pathways in stem cell fate, underlining as other miRNAs partially ignored up to now deserve to be reconsidered. In addition, this analysis allows including Adherens junction pathways among the mechanisms finely regulated in stem cell behavior.
Clinic manifestations in granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Greco A , Marinelli C , Fusconi M , Macri GF , Gallo A , De Virgilio A , Zambetti G , de Vincentiis M
Published: December 2015

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG), is an uncommon immunologically mediated systemic small-vessel vasculitis that is pathologically characterised by an inflammatory reaction pattern (necrosis, granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis) that occurs in the upper and lower respiratory tracts and kidneys. Although the aetiology of GPA remains largely unknown, it is believed to be autoimmune in origin and triggered by environmental events on a background of genetic susceptibility.

In Europe, the prevalence of GPA is five cases per 100,000 population, with greater incidence in Northern Europe. GPA can occur in all racial groups but predominantly affects Caucasians. Both sexes are affected equally. GPA affects a wide age range (age range, 8–99 years).

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is characterised by necrotising granulomatous lesions of the respiratory tract, vasculitis and glomerulonephritis. Classically, the acronym ELK is used to describe the clinical involvement of the ear, nose and throat (ENT); lungs; and kidneys. Because the upper respiratory tract is involved in 70–100% of cases of GPA, classic otorhinolaryngologic symptoms may be the first clinical manifestation of disease. The nasal cavity and the paranasal sinuses are the most common sites of involvement in the head and neck area (85–100%), whereas otological disease is found in approximately 35% (range, 19–61%) of cases.

Diagnosis of GPA is achieved through clinical assessment, serological tests for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) and histological analysis. The 10-year survival rate is estimated to be 40% when the kidneys are involved and 60–70% when there is no kidney involvement.

The standard therapy for GPA is a combination of glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide. In young patients, cyclophosphamide should be switched to azathioprine in the maintenance phase.

A multidisciplinary approach, involving otorhinolaryngologists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, oral physicians, rheumatologists, renal and respiratory physicians, and ophthalmologists, is necessary for the diagnosis and therapeutic treatment of GPA. ENT physicians have a determining role in recognising the early onset of the disease and starting an appropriate therapy.
Expression of IL-17A concentration and effector functions of peripheral blood neutrophils in food allergy hypersensitivity patients
Authors: Żbikowska-Gotz Magdalena , Pałgan Krzysztof , Gawrońska-Ukleja Ewa , Kuźmiński Andrzej , Przybyszewski Michał , Socha Ewa , Bartuzi Zbigniew
Published: December 2015

Lymphocytes Th17 and other types of immune system cells produce IL17. By induction of cytokines and chemokines, the IL17 cytokine is involved in mechanisms of allergic reaction with participation of neutrophil granulocytes. It affects activation, recruitment, and migration of neutrophils to the tissues, regulating inflammatory reaction intensity. Excited neutrophils secrete inter alia elastase and reactive oxygen species (ROS) – significant mediators of inflammation process responsible for tissues damage.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the concentrations of serum interleukin 17A, serum neutrophil elastase, and ROS production by neutrophils in patients with food allergy.

The study included 30 patients with food allergy diagnosed based on interview, clinical symptoms, positive SPT, placebo controlled double-blind oral provocation trial, and the presence of asIgE in blood serum against selected food allergens using fluoro-immuno-enzymatic method FEIA UNICap 100. The control group consisted of 10 healthy volunteers. The concentrations of IL17A were determined in all patients using ELISA method with eBioscience kits, and elastase using BenderMed Systems kits. Chemiluminescence of non-stimulated neutrophils was evaluated using luminol-dependent kinetic method for 40 min on Luminoskan (Labsystems luminometer).

The results of serum IL-17A concentrations and the values of chemiluminescence obtained by non-activated neutrophils, as well as elastase concentrations, were higher in patients with food allergic hypersensitivity compared to healthy volunteers.

This study demonstrates a significance of IL-17A and activated neutrophil granulocytes in the course of diseases with food allergic hypersensitivity.
Sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) oil protects against chronic stress-induced inhibitory function of natural killer cells in rats
Authors: Diandong Hou , Feng Gu , Zaifu Liang , Helland Timothy , Weixin Fu , Liping Cai
Published: December 2015

Chronic stress can suppress natural killer (NK) cell activity; this may also be related to the effect of stress on the neuroendocrine–immune network. Sea buckthorn (SBT) ( Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a thorny nitrogen fixing deciduous shrub, native to both Europe and Asia. It has been used as a medicinal plant in Tibetan and Mongolian traditional medicines. SBT has multifarious medical properties, including anti-fatigue as well as immunoregulatory effects. This study reports the effects of SBT oil with regard to the cytotoxicity and quantity of NK cells in the blood of a chronic-stress rat model, in addition to its mechanisms on the neuroendocrine–immune network. These results show that SBT oil, given by gavage to rats with chronic stress, could increase the following: body weight, NK cell quantities, and cytotoxicity, as well as the expression of perforin and granzyme B. The results also show that SBT oil in rats with chronic stress could suppress cortisol, ACTH, IL-1β and TNF-α levels, in addition to increasing 5-HT and IFN-γ serum levels. This leads to suggest that SBT oil, in rats with chronic stress, can increase NK cell cytotoxicity by upregulating the expression of perforin and granzyme B, thus causing associated effects of SBT oil on the neuroendocrine–immune network.
Plasma total thiol pool in children with asthma: Modulation during montelukast monotherapy
Authors: Dilek Fatih , Ozkaya Emin , Kocyigit Abdurrahim , Yazici Mebrure , Guler Eray Metin , Dundaroz Mehmet Rusen
Published: December 2015

Background:

Inflammation, which is a hallmark of asthma, is one of the main sources of oxidative stress in the human body. Thiols are powerful antioxidants that protect cells against the consequences of oxidative stress. We aimed to investigate whether asthma and montelukast monotherapy affect the total plasma thiol pool in children.

Methods:

A total of 60 children with asthma and 35 healthy controls participated in the study. Group I consisted of newly diagnosed asthmatics who did not have regular anti-asthmatic therapy previously. Group II consisted of patients who had been undertaking montelukast monotherapy regularly for at least 4 months. Plasma total antioxidant status (TAS) and plasma total thiol (PTT) were measured using spectrophotometric methods.

Results:

Bronchial asthma patients in both groups I and II had decreased median TAS levels compared with the control group (1.59 [interquartile range, 1.04–1.70] and 1.67 [1.50–1.75] vs. 2.98 [2.76–3.16] Trolox equiv./L, respectively; P <0.001). Group I had decreased PTT concentrations compared with the control group (0.18 [0.16–0.20] vs. 0.21 [0.19–0.22] mmol/L; P <0.001), and group II had similar PTT levels to the control group (0.20 [0.17–0.22] mmol/L; P >0.0 5). In addition, the median TAS and PTT levels for groups I and II were not statistically different ( P >0.05). There was a positive correlation between TAS and PTT levels (rho = 0.38, P <0.05) in group I.

Conclusion:

In order to balance the oxidative stress, both TAS and PTT which are markers of the antioxidant system are reduced in children with asthma. Montelukast monotherapy can limit oxidative stress and thus restore PTT levels but not TAS levels in asthmatic children.
Genetic polymorphisms and the development of invasive bacterial infections in children
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Bosis Samantha , Orenti Annalisa , Spena Silvia , Montinaro Valentina , Bianchini Sonia , Zampiero Alberto , Principi Nicola
Published: December 2015

To evaluate the associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of factors involved in the development of invasive bacterial disease (IBD) in children, 47 SNPs of 18 candidate genes were analysed in 49 children with IBD and 100 controls. The G/T genotype of TLR2 rs2149356 and the C genotype of LTA rs2229094 were associated with significantly reduced risk of developing IBD ( P = 0.04 and P = 0.05, respectively), whereas the C/T genotype of RFP175 rs1585110 was associated with a significantly higher risk of developing IBD ( P = 0.02). These results support the evidence that some genetic variants of factors involved in innate immunity may influence IBD risk in children.
Ernst Jünger and the problem of nihilism in the age of total war
Authors: Bousquet Antoine
Published: December 2015

As a singular witness and actor of the tumultuous 20th century, Ernst Jünger remains a controversial and enigmatic figure known above all for his vivid autobiographical accounts of experience in the trenches of the First World War. This article will argue that throughout his entire oeuvre, from personal diaries to novels and essays, he never ceased to grapple with what he viewed as the central question of the age, namely that of the problem of nihilism and the means to overcome it. Inherited from Nietzsche’s diagnosis of Western civilization in the late 19th century, to which he added an acute observation of the particular role of technology within it, Jünger would employ this lens to make sense of the seemingly absurd industrial slaughter of modern war and herald the advent of a new voluntarist and bellicist order that was to imminently sweep away timorous and decadent bourgeois societies obsessed with security and self-preservation. Jünger would ultimately see his expectations dashed, including by the forms of rule that National Socialism would take, and eventually retreated into a reclusive quietism. Yet he never abandoned his central problematique of nihilism, developing it further in exchanges with Martin Heidegger after the Second World War. And for all the ways in which he may have erred, his life-long struggle with meaning in the age of technique and its implications for war and security continues to make Jünger a valuable interlocutor of the present.
OpenSim-Supported Virtual Learning Environment
Authors: Kim Heesung , Ke Fengfeng
Published: December 2015

The pedagogical and design considerations for the use of a virtual reality (VR) learning environment are important for prospective and current teachers. However, empirical research investigating how preservice teachers interact with transformative content representation, facilitation, and learning activities in a VR educational simulation is still limited. The purpose of this study is to examine prospective teachers’ user experiences in a VR-based learning environment, thus exploring VR-based instructional strategies and providing potential heuristics that assist teachers to integrate VR learning environments into their future teaching practices. Five preservice teachers participated in the study. An OpenSim-supported virtual simulation of a sushi restaurant was designed to enable preservice math teachers to experience 3D simulation-based math teaching and learning. All of the data in this study were collected via video archives, interview, and infield observation. The study results indicated the importance of transformative content representation in a VR educational simulation. The results also informed on the salient heuristics of VR-based learning facilitation and learning activity design.
The Influence of Defendant Immigration Status, Country of Origin, and Ethnicity on Juror Decisions
Authors: Minero Laura P. , Espinoza Russ K. E.
Published: December 2015

This study examined prejudicial attitudes toward immigrant defendants who vary on legal status, country of origin, and ethnicity. Three hundred twenty mock juror participants read a trial transcript that varied defendants’ immigration status (documented or undocumented), defendant country of origin (Canada or Mexico), and defendant race/ethnicity (Caucasian or Latino). Dependent measures included verdict, sentencing, culpability ratings, and trait assessments. European American mock jurors found undocumented, Latino immigrants from Mexico guilty significantly more often, more culpable, and rated this defendant more negatively on various trait measures in comparison with all other conditions. Latino mock jurors did not demonstrate ingroup favoritism or outgroup bias. This study examines aversive racism as a factor of this bias. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Changes in Intracellular Water Following Hemodialysis Treatment Lead to Changes in Estimates of Lean Tissue Using Bioimpedance Spectroscopy
Authors: El‐Kateb Sally , Davenport Andrew
Published: December 2015

Background: Bioelectrical impedance (BIA) devices are being introduced into hemodialysis (HD) centers to aid determining normohydrated weight and also provide body composition assessment by estimating lean tissue mass index (LTMI) and fat mass index (FMI). BIA devices differ, with most using a 2‐body compartmental model, which can be affected by hydration status, and as such for reliable measurements, these should be made postdialysis when patients are not overhydrated, which is inconvenient for both patients and staff. The development of BIA devices using a 3‐compartmental body model, separately estimating normohydrated LTMI potentially, now offers the advantage of making reliable measurements of body composition prior to dialysis. Materials and Methods: We measured body composition predialysis and postdialysis in 50 HD patients using a 3‐body compartment model BIA device. Results: Although there were no statistically significant differences for the whole cohort in LTMI and FMI (pre and post HD—13.5 ± 4.2 vs 13.9 ± 4.7 kg/m2, and 10.5 ± 5.5 vs 10.6 ± 5.4 kg/m2 respectively), the correlation (r2) between pre and post HD was only 0.27 and 0.37 kg/m2 respectively, with a mean ± SD bias on Bland‐Altman analysis, −0.67 ± 4.25 and 0.33 ± 4.77 kg/m2 respectively. Changes in intracellular water were associated with changes in LTMI (r2 = 0.99, P < .001). Similarly, a fall in LTMI was associated with a corresponding increase in FMI (r2 = −0.86, P < .001). Conclusion: In clinical practice, predialysis bioimpedance measurements are more convenient. However, for more reliable and reproducible assessments of nutrition status, we suggest that measurements of body composition should be made when patients are not overhydrated.
Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms, Burn-Out, and Compassion Satisfaction Among Body Handlers: The Mediating Role of Sense of Coherence and Spirituality at Workplace
Authors: Zerach Gadi , Levin Yafit
Published: December 2015

This study assessed posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), burn-out (BO), and compassion satisfaction (CS) among Israeli body handlers. We aimed to explore differences between two groups of Orthodox Jewish male volunteers: the “ZAKA” body handlers (ZAs: n = 102), and a comparison group of charity workers (CWs: n = 101). Furthermore, we assessed the contribution of two potential resilience buffers—sense of coherence (SOC) and spirituality at the workplace (SAW)—to PTSS, BO, and CS among these volunteers via self-report measures. Surprisingly, results show that ZAs reported significantly lower levels of PTSS and BO as compared with CWs. ZAs also reported significantly higher levels of CS as compared with CWs. Importantly, SOC mediated the link between groups and PTSS and BO. Both SOC and SAW mediated the link between groups and CS. These findings suggest that “ZAKA” body handlers demonstrate substantial resilience following repeated exposure to death and atrocities. To reduce work-related psychological distress and improve CS, SOC and SAW should be taken into account in the process of recruitment and training of body handlers.
Assistants, Guides, Collaborators, Friends: The Concealed Figures of Conflict Research
Authors: Jenkins Sarah Ann
Published: December 2015

Recent scholarship has demonstrated an increasing awareness of the need for more grounded, empirical research into the micro-level dynamics of violent contexts. Research in these difficult, dangerous, and potentially violent conflict or post-conflict settings necessitates the formation of new relationships of dependency, and assistants, friends, collaborators, and guides become central figures in the field. However, all too often, these figures are written out of academic accounts and silenced in our analyses. This not only does them a significant disservice, but it also obscures potential biases, complexities, and ethical dilemmas that emerge in the way in which such research is carried out. Drawing upon fieldwork exploring the 2007–2008 Kenyan postelection violence, this paper argues that reliance upon insider-assistants is essential in conflict settings and explores the challenges inherent in these relationships. As researchers become increasingly engaged in micro-level studies of violent contexts, we must interrogate the realities of how our knowledge has been produced and engage in more open and honest discussions of the methodological and ethical challenges of conflict research.
Arrival Stories: Using Participatory, Embodied, Sensory Ethnography to Explore the Making of an English City for Newly Arrived International Students
Authors: Stevenson Andrew
Published: December 2015

Places are more than mere locations indicated by coordinates on a map. They are sites invested with meaning that arises out of mobile, embodied, sensuous experience. The construction of place is explored here in the context of participatory, embodied, sensory ethnographic research. I curated a series of ethnographic engagements with international students who were newly arrived in the city of Manchester, England. A participatory, embodied, sensory ethnographic method was used to explore ways in which meaningful places are constructed through the body and senses. This article reports on walking interviews with Tala (from Zambia), Ann (from Romania), Al (from Tunisia), Abbie (from Spain), and her guide dog Tori (from the U.S.), to explore their corporeal and sensuous engagements with their new city, using a combination of transcribed interviews and other, less language-based products of our engagements (photography, artifacts, soundscapes).
Effects of molecular weight on the dynamic mechanical properties and interfacial properties of carbon fiber fabric-reinforced polyetherketone cardo composites
Authors: Ma Yan , Bi Ying , Zhang Xingdi , Wang Daming , Dang Guodong , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Chunhai
Published: December 2015

It’s a long-standing task to explore the toughening effect of fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites, which could be used to produce new materials demanded by the aerospace field. In this work, we investigated the effects of the molecular weight of a thermoplastic resin, polyetherketone cardo (PEK-c), on the thermal, mechanical, and interfacial properties of the composite. Carbon fiber fabrics reinforced with PEK-c composite laminates were prepared by solution-processed prepreg and hot press molding. Scanning electron microscopic results showed that the fibers were distributed uniformly in the resin, with no visible flaws detected. The results of the dynamic mechanical analysis revealed that, according to the lower mobility of the polymer chain, the glass transition temperature of composite laminates increased with the increase in molecular weight. However, the tan δ values showed a lower peak value with a higher molecular weight due to the improved interfacial property between the resin and the fiber. The results on interlaminar shear strength also indicate that composites with resins of higher molecular weight have better interfacial adhesion. These results are closely interrelated with and contribute to our overall understanding of the effects of molecular weight on the properties of CFRP composites.
Modeling of dynamic efficiency of curve–face gear pairs
Authors: Lin Chao , Cai Zhiqin
Published: December 2015

The characteristics and the tooth distribution regularity of curve–face gear were analyzed based on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication. Then a model for the prediction of mechanical dynamic efficiency of curve–face gear was presented by the concentrated parameters, including dynamic-loading tooth force, coefficient, the oil film thickness, the space relative velocity and load distribution. The discretization method was introduced to solve the computational formulas of key factors above. A meshing period defined from trough (enter meshing point) to peak (outer meshing point) of the pitch curve and the tooth profile was discreted into some parts for calculation of the sliding and the rolling power losses. The dynamic and static efficiency of curve–face gear were analyzed, and the results of simulation and test were similar during the corresponding time, which verified the correctness of theoretical model.
Developing a life cycle cost model for real-time condition monitoring in railways under uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Di , Hu Hao , Roberts Clive , Dai Lei
Published: December 2015

The Shanghai Transport Committee has estimated that passenger traffic increased fivefold between 2005 and 2014, and will continue to increase. At the same time, the maintenance costs of the Shanghai Metro have increased to about six times their original value. To ensure reliability, availability, maintainability and safety (RAMS) in railways, equipment sometimes needs to be upgraded; new technology is an effective way of modernizing the system. Condition monitoring techniques are considered to be a pragmatic approach to improve RAMS in railways. Bearings are seen to be a key factor in the successful operation of railways, as their performance is related to safety and reliability. To meet the safety requirements, an efficient method is to implement a real-time condition monitoring (RTCM) technique. To evaluate the economic cost of this investment in RTCM, the life cycle cost (LCC) should be considered. A Petri net combined with the Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the LCC evaluation process and a case study of how to employ this method is presented.
A three-dimensional coupled dynamics model of the air spring of a high-speed electric multiple unit train
Authors: Qi Zhuang , Li Fu , Yu Dalian
Published: December 2015

Although air springs are widely applied on high-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) trains, there is no accepted method to model the dynamics of these air springs. In this paper, a three-dimensional (3D)-coupled dynamics model of an air spring used on a high-speed EMU train was created through the derivation of thermodynamics equations and using a curve-fitting method. Experimental and simulated stiffness tests were performed to verify the accuracy of the 3D-coupled model, which was then implemented in the MBS vehicle dynamics model. The influence of the nonlinear behaviour of the air spring on the vehicle’s dynamic performance was analyzed by a dual-simulation approach using the 3D-coupled model of the air spring and the dynamics model of the vehicle. From the results, it can be concluded that the air spring can improve the vehicle’s vertical ride comfort, due to its ability to adjust the vertical stiffness and damping based on the level of vibration. However, the vehicle’s ability to negotiate curves is reduced due to an increase in the air spring’s lateral and longitudinal stiffness, a result of the lateral displacement of the car body. Furthermore, the operation of the leveling valve in the 3D-coupled model can slightly reduce the vehicle’s overturning coefficient, which is a phenomenon that the normal air spring models cannot simulate. Finally, the 3D-coupled model was applied to simulate a leakage process, which is a complex series of chain reactions, in the air spring system. The calculation results indicate that, even though the ride comfort is severely degraded by the leakage, the vehicle’s running safety can still be guaranteed.
A self-separation algorithm for width-limited high density air corridor*
Authors: Nakamura Yoichi , Takeichi Noboru
Published: December 2015

*Partly presented at the 29th Congress of the International Council of the Aeronautical Sciences, 8 September 2014, St. Petersburg, Russia. Algorithms for self-separation of aircraft operating in a one-way high density air corridor are discussed. In the air corridor, which is considered as a tube or band-shaped piece of airspace that connects high-demand areas, only aircraft capable of self-separation may operate. It is required that all the aircraft fly in the same direction while maintaining safety without instructions of air traffic controllers. To realize high traffic throughput without losing safety, aircraft should be self-separated in an appropriate manner. Additionally, aircraft must operate inside of the assigned airspace for the air corridor operations. In this paper, an algorithm for self-separation of aircraft in a width-limited band-shaped piece of airspace has been developed. The algorithm determines maneuvers for conflict avoidance using information of surrounding aircraft. It is demonstrated that all the aircraft are able to self-separate without conflict in the width-limited air corridor. It is also demonstrated that self-separation using current state information results in a deadlock in the narrow air corridor. As the corridor width increases, aircraft are able to maintain the separation through the use of heading changes while maintaining their optimum speed. Additionally, it is indicated that the installation of sub-route and utilization of optimum speed information prevent a deadlock even though the corridor width is narrow.
Clinical diagnosis of syphilis: a ten-year retrospective analysis in a South Australian urban sexual health clinic
Authors: Forrest CE , Ward A
Published: December 2015

National notifications for infectious syphilis in Australia have increased in recent years. Outside of sexual health clinics, junior clinicians seldom encounter this disease in its infectious stage (primary, secondary and early latent). With such a variable clinical presentation, textbook teaching is no substitute for real-life experience. The importance of accurate classification and staging of disease is relevant to the risk of transmission and determines treatment duration. In this article, the authors review the clinical presentation of syphilis over ten years in an urban sexual health clinic with a focus on the clinical presentation and diagnosis of infectious syphilis, in particular secondary syphilis, compared with that outlined in the Australian National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System guidelines. This retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with syphilis at an urban sexual health clinic showed that between 2005 and 2015, 226 cases of syphilis were diagnosed. Documentation of impression of clinical staging of disease was present in 46% of the cases. Seventeen of these cases were recorded as secondary syphilis. The criteria used by clinicians to diagnose the secondary syphilis cases were consistent with criteria defined by the Australian National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System. All cases of secondary syphilis had at least one cutaneous manifestation of disease. The demographic of the cohort of syphilis cases was consistent with that recorded in the literature. This review showed that the clinician’s diagnosis of secondary syphilis in this service is consistent with the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System guidelines. Continuing education of junior medical staff is important to facilitate diagnosis and improve documentation of clinical staging, minimise disease transmission and ensure appropriate treatment.
A secular acceleration: Theological foundations of the sociological concept “social acceleration”
Authors: Torres Felipe
Published: December 2015

The term “shortening of time” is related to the Judeo-Christian tradition that announces the end of time as the moment when God, for the sake of the elect, shortens the duration of days and hours, because without this shortening no one would survive (This means that only a God's will could ended Time. The Christian perspective believes that the last days will be chaotic, and God will preclude History, ending time, to save a few men of goodwill.). While in this sense salvation is associated with divine intervention, the thesis of acceleration would reverse the above formula, making human beings responsible for the narrowing of time. But if the shortening of time in the Apocalypse is aimed at the salvation of the World: Where does acceleration, a secular idea of the shortening of time, aim? What is it that justifies the increase in the speed of completing tasks that previously took considerable time, which are today performed in just a few hours? How can we justify the frenzy to obtain what we want in the shortest time possible? In this paper we propose to address this and other questions, in order to show the relationship between a sociological understanding of acceleration with a theological-Christian view of time. In other words, the main claim exposes the transfer of teleology from a religious conception to a historical-worldly conception of time.
Behind the scenes of sport for development: Perspectives of executives of multinational sport organizations
Authors: Waldman Devra , Wilson Brian
Published: December 2015

This article reports findings from a study designed to examine cricket’s role as an international development tool – with a particular focus on how decisions are made at the highest institutional levels to support cricket-related development initiatives. Data for the study are drawn from interviews with executives in the International Cricket Council and the Marylebone Cricket Club who were asked about how and why decision-makers in their organizations chose to engage in development-related work. The study is informed by literature on postcolonialism, sport for development and peace, global politics and the sociology of cricket. The results illustrate that: (a) a select group of executives in the International Cricket Council and the Marylebone Cricket Club make decisions hierarchically, and that decisions reflect organizational mandates; (b) decision-makers tend to be dismissive of critiques of sport for development and peace, with notable exceptions; and (c) the goals and implications of development-related programmes are portrayed differently to different audiences. This article concludes with commentary on the ways that cricket continues to be implicated in postcolonial relationships and on the processes of decision-making in organizations governed by neoliberal policies.
The Portuguese labour movement and industrial democracy: from workplace revolution to a precarious quest for economic justice
Authors: Stoleroff Alan
Published: December 2015

This article explores the relevance of various conceptions of industrial democracy to the modern Portuguese labour movement. It seeks to explain the movement's tendency to limit such conceptions to the institutional practices of collective bargaining and concertation. The article also examines the general lack of demands for participation and the movement's shared politicized approach to economic democratization as a struggle for economic justice. It first looks at how the struggles of the revolutionary period decisively narrowed the parameters of industrial democracy in the democratic political regime, excluding a radical pursuit of workers’ control. It then looks at various structural constraints on the development of industrial democracy, taking into account changes in the context of industrial relations through the periods of crisis, recovery and European integration. It assesses industrial democracy by explaining the realities of worker representation in the workplace in terms of the presence of unions and workers’ commissions and, finally, examines the consequences for industrial democracy of the present crisis and ‘adjustment’, arguing that its precarious situation has restricted the labour movement to politicized strategies for economic justice.