bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spike Train SIMilarity Space (SSIMS): A Framework for Single Neuron and Ensemble Data Analysis
Authors: Vargas-Irwin Carlos E. , Brandman David M. , Zimmermann Jonas B. , Donoghue John P. , Black Michael J.
Published: November 2014

Increased emphasis on circuit level activity in the brain makes it necessary to have methods to visualize and evaluate large-scale ensemble activity beyond that revealed by raster-histograms or pairwise correlations. We present a method to evaluate the relative similarity of neural spiking patterns by combining spike train distance metrics with dimensionality reduction. Spike train distance metrics provide an estimate of similarity between activity patterns at multiple temporal resolutions. Vectors of pair-wise distances are used to represent the intrinsic relationships between multiple activity patterns at the level of single units or neuronal ensembles. Dimensionality reduction is then used to project the data into concise representations suitable for clustering analysis as well as exploratory visualization. Algorithm performance and robustness are evaluated using multielectrode ensemble activity data recorded in behaving primates. We demonstrate how spike train SIMilarity space (SSIMS) analysis captures the relationship between goal directions for an eight-directional reaching task and successfully segregates grasp types in a 3D grasping task in the absence of kinematic information. The algorithm enables exploration of virtually any type of neural spiking (time series) data, providing similarity-based clustering of neural activity states with minimal assumptions about potential information encoding models.
Graph Degree Sequence Solely Determines the Expected Hopfield Network Pattern Stability
Authors: Berend Daniel , Dolev Shlomi , Hanemann Ariel
Published: November 2014

We analyze the effect of network topology on the pattern stability of the Hopfield neural network in the case of general graphs. The patterns are randomly selected from a uniform distribution. We start the Hopfield procedure from some pattern v. An error in an entry e of v is the situation where, if the procedure is started at e, the value of e flips. Such an entry is an instability point. Note that we disregard the value at e by the end of the procedure, as well as what happens if we start the procedure from another pattern [Formula: see text] or another entry [Formula: see text] of v. We measure the instability of the system by the expected total number of instability points of all the patterns.

Our main result is that the instability of the system does not depend on the exact topology of the underlying graph, but rather only on its degree sequence. Moreover, for a large number of nodes, the instability can be approximated by [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the standard normal distribution function and [Formula: see text] are the degrees of the nodes.
Dynamics of Gamma Bursts in Local Field Potentials
Authors: Greenwood Priscilla E. , McDonnell Mark D. , Ward Lawrence M.
Published: November 2014

In this letter, we provide a stochastic analysis of, and supporting simulation data for, a stochastic model of the generation of gamma bursts in local field potential (LFP) recordings by interacting populations of excitatory and inhibitory neurons. Our interest is in behavior near a fixed point of the stochastic dynamics of the model. We apply a recent limit theorem of stochastic dynamics to probe into details of this local behavior, obtaining several new results. We show that the stochastic model can be written in terms of a rotation multiplied by a two-dimensional standard Ornstein-Uhlenbeck (OU) process. Viewing the rewritten process in terms of phase and amplitude processes, we are able to proceed further in analysis. We demonstrate that gamma bursts arise in the model as excursions of the modulus of the OU process. The associated pair of stochastic phase and amplitude processes satisfies their own pair of stochastic differential equations, which indicates that large phase slips occur between gamma bursts. This behavior is mirrored in LFP data simulated from the original model. These results suggest that the rewritten model is a valid representation of the behavior near the fixed point for a wide class of models of oscillatory neural processes.
Using Multilayer Perceptron Computation to Discover Ideal Insect Olfactory Receptor Combinations in the Mosquito and Fruit Fly for an Efficient Electronic Nose
Authors: Bachtiar Luqman R. , Unsworth Charles P. , Newcomb Richard D.
Published: November 2014

The model organism, Drosophila melanogaster, and the mosquito Anopheles gambiae use 60 and 79 odorant receptors, respectively, to sense their olfactory world. However, a commercial “electronic nose” in the form of an insect olfactory biosensor demands very low numbers of receptors at its front end of detection due to the difficulties of receptor/sensor integration and functionalization. In this letter, we demonstrate how computation via artificial neural networks (ANNs), in the form of multilayer perceptrons (MLPs), can be successfully incorporated as the signal processing back end of the biosensor to drastically reduce the number of receptors to three while still retaining 100% performance of odorant detection to that of a full complement of receptors. In addition, we provide a detailed performance comparison between D. melanogaster and A. gambiae odorant receptors and demonstrate that A. gambiae receptors provide superior olfaction detection performance over D. melanogaster for very low receptor numbers. The results from this study present the possibility of using the computation of MLPs to discover ideal biological olfactory receptors for an olfactory biosensor device to provide maximum classification performance of unknown odorants.
Wh-Inquiries into Modern Greek and Their Theoretical Import(ance)
Authors: Vlachos Christos
Published: November 2014

Within the framework of Generative Grammar, a standard (hypo)thesis has been that a (broad) wh-parameter may distinguish between two types of languages: those that front wh-elements (e.g., English) and those that realize them in situ (e.g., Chinese). Wh-fronting languages may also attest in situ arrangements, and a tacit (hypo)thesis, tied to the one above, is that in situ configurations translate to echo questions, while fronting configurations are genuine (information-seeking) questions. Neat as this taxonomy might look like, more recently it has been shown that, in Modern Greek, which is a typically wh-fronting language, each wh-configuration may map to either meaning. On the assumption that syntax mediates between form and meaning, mapping the former to the latter, the question that the Modern Greek evidence raises is to what extent syntax regulates the form-meaning associations under consideration. In other words, the question is “how much” of the relevant semantics is registered in the corresponding syntactic structures. Capitalizing on already documented evidence from distribution, interpretation, and intonation, the present paper argues that syntax encodes certain aspects of the relevant semantics, and pans out a formal system that attributes other aspects of this semantics to a direct interaction between PF and LF, thereby recognizing the existence of this interface area. The theoretical import(ance) of this analysis (part of which is prefigured elsewhere) is that it revisits the standard organization of the Grammar, as viewed from a Minimalist perspective.
The biogeographic distribution of Cavinula (Bacillariophyceae) in North America with the descriptions of two new species
Authors: Cvetkoska Aleksandra , Levkov Zlatko , Hamilton PAUL B. , Potapova Marina
Published: November 2014

Cavinula Mann & Stickle is small genus presently comprising 25 taxa distinguished by the linear to round-elliptical valve shape, uniseriate striae, presence of nodules and distinctive terminal pores. Most often the species from the genus have been reported from colder northern or alpine oligotrophic aquatic systems, or moist sub-aerial habitats. Observation of samples from different localities reveals fourteen Cavinula taxa are distributed across North America. Descriptions of confirmed species including designated types are provided with regard to their taxonomy, autecology, and distribution in Canada and USA. Light and Scanning Electron Microscope observations of different samples and type material reveal high morphological variation within some of the taxa. Two and three morphotypes are recognized within C. cocconeiformis and C. pseudoscutiformis. Cavinula kernii and C. maculata are recognized as new species and formal description and differential diagnosis are presented. The biogeography of the genus Cavinula in North America is represented by three groups of species. The first group comprises taxa with more restricted distribution in oligotrophic, cold and/or alpine environments from the Arctic Archipelago and the Rocky Mountains in western North America. The second group comprises more tolerant species with broader distributions across a wider range of ecological conditions. The third group from south-eastern North America, represented by C. maculata, is found in low pH and specific conductance conditions with low nutrients. Globally, forty-one percent of the known taxa are present in North America. This number is subject to change after a better understanding of the different morphotypes and global taxa distributions.
Aulacoseira veraluciae sp. nov. (Coscinodiscophyceae, Aulacoseiraceae): a common freshwater diatom from Brazil
Authors: Tremarin Priscila Izabel , Ludwig Thelma , Torgan Lezilda
Published: November 2014

Examination of samples from different aquatic environments from Brazil revealed the presence of a new Aulacoseira species. Aulacoseira veraluciae Tremarin, Torgan & T. Ludwig is described and illustrated with light and scanning electron microscopy, and its morphology compared with that of similar species, such as A. muzzanensis (Meister) Krammer, A. granulata (Ehrenberg) Simonsen and A. agassizii (Ostenfeld) Simonsen. The new species is characterized mainly by the straight pervalvar rows of areolae, morphology of the linking spines, shape and position of the rimoportulae on the valve mantle, deepness and thickness of the ringleiste.
Two new species of Dichorisandra (Commelinaceae) from Rio de Janeiro and comments on the two species included in Vellozo’s “Flora Fluminensis”
Authors: Aona Lidyanne Yuriko Saleme , BITTRICH VOLKER , AMARAL Maria DO CARMO E.
Published: November 2014

Two new species of Dichorisandra collected  in Rio de Janeiro state are described based on studies in the field, herbarium specimens and cultivated plants. Dichorisandra odorata can be distinguished by its small stature, leaves congested at the apex of the stems, with the lamina densely pilose on both sides, fragrant flowers (unusual for the genus), six anthers with pilose connectives and dehiscent by an apical pore; Dichorisandra nana resembles D. thyrsiflora by the presence of six yellow anthers dehiscent by apical pores, however it differs being smaller, reaching only 30 cm tall, and by the position of the stamens in relation to the petals. Illustrations of the species, comparisons with species looking morphologically similar, discussion of the diagnostic characters, as well as their conservation status are presented. Vellozo´s Flora Fluminensis includes two names that belong to Dichorisandra, both treated under the genus Convallaria. The first one, C. diffusa, is a synonym of D. hexandra while the other, thought by Vellozo to be C. racemosa (= Maianthemum racemosum), is in fact D. thyrsiflora.
New species and new record of hadzioids (Amphipoda: Senticaudata, Hadzioidea) from the Persian Gulf, Iran
Authors: MOMTAZI FARZANEH , SARI ALIREZA , MAGHSOUDLOU ABDOLVAHAB
Published: November 2014

New record and new species of the families Melitidae Bousfield, 1973 and Maeridae Krapp-Schickel, 2008 are described from the Iranian shorelines of the Persian Gulf. Melita persia sp. nov. is differentiated from other members of M. zeylanica Stebbing, 1904 group by: the presence of two setae on inner ramus of third uropod, the setal arrangement on the telson, and a recurved proximal lobe of sixth coxa in females. Also, Elasmopus menurte Barnard, 1974 previously described from Western Australia and Mauritius is recorded, for the first time, from Persian Gulf in the north-western Indian Ocean.
Anostracan (Crustacea: Branchiopoda) zoogeography III. Australian bioregions
Authors: ROGERS D. CHRISTOPHER , TIMMS BRIAN V.
Published: November 2014

Anostracan bioregions were identified for Australia. These regions were quantitatively defined using species distributions compared through Jaccard’s Coefficient of Community Similarity, and qualitatively defined using regional soils data. Community assemblages are quantified using Fager’s Index of Recurring Species Groups. Substrate geochemistry was used to investigate additional relationships, but was limited by the constraints of available data. However, the highly salinized soils directly relate to Australia bearing the highest diversity of halophilic anostracan taxa. Three anostracan biogeographical regions are defined for Australia: Western, Eastern and Southern.
Future Hydrological Regimes in the Upper Indus Basin: A Case Study from a High-Altitude Glacierized Catchment
Authors: Soncini Andrea , Bocchiola Daniele , Confortola Gabriele , Bianchi Alberto , Rosso Renzo , Mayer Christoph , Lambrecht Astrid , Palazzi Elisa , Smiraglia Claudio , Diolaiuti Guglielmina
Published: November 2014

The mountain regions of the Hindu Kush, Karakoram, and Himalayas (HKH) are considered Earth’s “third pole,” and water from there plays an essential role for downstream populations. The dynamics of glaciers in Karakoram are complex, and in recent decades the area has experienced unchanged ice cover, despite rapid decline elsewhere in the world (the Karakoram anomaly). Assessment of future water resources and hydrological variability under climate change in this area is greatly needed, but the hydrology of these high-altitude catchments is still poorly studied and little understood. This study focuses on a particular watershed, the Shigar River with the control section at Shigar (about 7000 km2), nested within the upper Indus basin and fed by seasonal melt from two major glaciers (Baltoro and Biafo). Hydrological, meteorological, and glaciological data gathered during 3 years of field campaigns (2011–13) are used to set up a hydrological model, providing a depiction of instream flows, snowmelt, and ice cover thickness. The model is used to assess changes of the hydrological cycle until 2100, via climate projections provided by three state-of-the-art global climate models used in the recent IPCC Fifth Assessment Report under the representative concentration pathway (RCP) emission scenarios RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5. Under all RCPs, future flows are predicted to increase until midcentury and then to decrease, but remaining mostly higher than control run values. Snowmelt is projected to occur earlier, while the ice melt component is expected to increase, with ice thinning considerably and even disappearing below 4000 m MSL until 2100.
Quantifying and Interpreting Striations in a Subtropical Gyre: A Spectral Perspective
Authors: Chen Ru , Flierl Glenn R. , Wunsch Carl
Published: November 2014

The amplitude, origin, and direction of striations in the subtropical gyre are investigated using simulated and analytical multidimensional spectra. Striations, defined as banded structures in the low-frequency motions, account for a noticeable percentage of zonal velocity variability in the east North Pacific (ENP: 25°–42°N, 150°–130°W) and central North Pacific (CNP: 10°–22°N, 132°E–162°W) regions in an eddying global ocean model. Thus, they likely are nonnegligible in mixing and transport processes. Striations in the ENP region are nonzonal and are embedded in the nonzonal gyre flow, whereas striations in the CNP region are more zonal, as are the mean gyre flows. An idealized 1.5-layer model shows the gyre flow partially determines their directions, which qualitatively resemble those in the global eddying model. In the linear limit, structures are quasi-stationary (frequency ω → 0) linear Rossby waves and the gyre flow influences the direction by influencing the nature of the zero Rossby wave frequency curve. In the nonlinear regime, striations are consistent with the nondispersively propagating eddies, whose low-frequency component has banded structures. The gyre flow influences the striation direction by changing the eddy propagation direction. Their origin in the nonlinear regime is consistent with the existence of a nondispersive line in the frequency–wavenumber spectra. This study does not exclude other striation mechanisms from literature, considering that the interpretations here are based on an idealized model and only from a spectral perspective.
Oceanic Boundary Conditions for Jakobshavn Glacier. Part II: Provenance and Sources of Variability of Disko Bay and Ilulissat Icefjord Waters, 1990–2011
Authors: Gladish Carl V. , Holland David M. , Lee Craig M.
Published: November 2014

Jakobshavn Glacier, west Greenland, has responded to temperature changes in Ilulissat Icefjord, into which it terminates. Basin waters in this fjord exchange with neighboring Disko Bay waters of a particular density at least once per year. This study determined the provenance of this isopycnic layer for 1990–2011 using hydrographic data from Cape Farewell to Baffin Bay. The warm Atlantic-origin core of the West Greenland Current never filled deep Disko Bay or entered the fjord basin because of bathymetric impediments on the west Greenland shelf. Instead, equal parts of Atlantic water and less-saline polar water filled the fjord basin and bathed Jakobshavn Glacier. The polar water fraction was often traceable to the East/West Greenland Current but sometimes to the colder Baffin Current. The huge annual temperature cycle on West Greenland Current isopycnals did not propagate into deep Disko Bay or the fjord basin because isopycnals over the west Greenland shelf were depressed during the warm autumn/winter phase of the cycle.

Ilulissat Icefjord basin waters were anomalously cool in summer 2010. This was not because of the record low NAO index winter of 2009/10 or atmospheric anomalies over Baffin Bay but, possibly, because of high freshwater flux through the Canadian Arctic and a weak West Greenland Current in early 2010. Together, this caused cold Baffin Current water to flood the west Greenland shelf. Subpolar gyre warming associated with the NAO anomaly in winter 2009/10 was more likely responsible for the record warm Disko Bay and Ilulissat Icefjord basin waters of 2011/12.
Babies in Distress
Authors: Nnamani Nwamaka Pamela , Moss David R.
Published: November 2014

There has been international debate on the infrequent occurrence of malignant hyperthermia in infants, where some reports state that this phenomenon does not exist in this age group; but the vast majority of studies counteract this argument. The proportion of documented cases in the infant population warrants a good review of cases and description of symptomatology observed with malignant hyperthermia in this cohort. It is paramount for clinicians of the pediatric population to recognize patients at risk of having a crisis, and to communicate this concern to the surgical/anesthetic team and also to be cognizant of the level of care necessary following a crisis.
‘Content to be sad’ or ‘runaway apprentice’? The psychological contract and career agency of young scientists in the entrepreneurial university
Authors: Lam Alice , de Campos André
Published: November 2014

This article examines employee agency in psychological contracts by exploring how young scientists proactively shape their careers in response to unmet expectations induced by academic entrepreneurialism. It uses the lens of social exchange to examine their relationships with the professors engaged in two types of activities: collaborative research characterized by diffuse/reciprocal exchange, and commercial ventures, by restricted/negotiated exchange. These two categories show how career agency varies in orientation, form and behavioural outcome depending on the relational context within which their psychological contracts evolve. Those involved in collaborative research experienced a relational psychological contract and responded to unfulfilled career promises by ‘extended investment’ in their current jobs. They use ‘proxy agency’ by enlisting the support of their professors. However, some become ‘trapped’ in perennial temporary employment and are ‘content to be sad’. By contrast, those involved in research commercialization experienced a transactional contract and assert ‘personal agency’ by crafting their own entrepreneurial careers. They are ‘runaways’ who seek autonomy. The evidence is based on interviews with 24 doctoral/postdoctoral researchers and 16 professors from three leading UK universities. The article extends psychological contract theory by incorporating career agency and sheds new light on changing academic careers.
Crowdseeding in Eastern Congo
Authors: Van der Windt Peter , Humphreys Macartan
Published: November 2014

Poor-quality data about conflict events can hinder humanitarian responses and bias academic research. There is increasing recognition of the role that new information technologies can play in producing more reliable data faster. We piloted a novel data-gathering system in the Democratic Republic of Congo in which villagers in a set of randomly selected communities report on events in real time via short message service. We first describe the data and assess its reliability. We then examine the usefulness of such “crowdseeded” data in two ways. First, we implement a downstream experiment on aid and conflict and find evidence that aid can lead to fewer conflict events. Second, we examine conflict diffusion in Eastern Congo and find evidence that key dynamics operate at very micro levels. Both applications highlight the benefit of collecting conflict data via cell phones in real time.
Contribution of Donor and Host Mesenchyme to the Transplanted Tooth Germs
Authors: Nakaki T. , Saito K. , Ida-Yonemochi H. , Nakagawa E. , Kenmotsu S. , Ohshima H.
Published: November 2014

Autologous tooth germ transplantation of immature teeth is an alternative method of tooth replacement that could be used instead of dental implants in younger patients. However, it is paramount that the dental pulp remain vital and that root formation continue in the transplanted location. The goal of this study is to characterize the healing of allogenic tooth grafts in an animal model using GFP-labeled donor or host postnatal mice. In addition, the putative stem cells were labeled before transplantation with a pulse-chase paradigm. Transplanted molars formed cusps and roots and erupted into occlusion by 2 wk postoperatively. Host label-retaining cells (LRCs) were maintained in the center of pulp tissue associating with blood vessels. Dual labeling showed that a proportion of LRCs were incorporated into the odontoblast layer. Host cells, including putative dendritic cells and the endothelium, also immigrated into the pulp tissue but did not contribute to the odontoblast layer. Therefore, LRCs or putative mesenchymal stem cells are retained in the transplanted pulps. Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath remains vital, and epithelial LRCs are present in the donor cervical loops. Thus, the dynamic donor-host interaction occurred in the developing transplant, suggesting that these changes affect the characteristics of the dental pulp.
Excess NF-κB Induces Ectopic Odontogenesis in Embryonic Incisor Epithelium
Authors: Blackburn J. , Kawasaki K. , Porntaveetus T. , Kawasaki M. , Otsuka-Tanaka Y. , Miake Y. , Ota M.S. , Watanabe M. , Hishinuma M. , Nomoto T. , Oommen S. , Ghafoor S. , Harada F. , Nozawa-Inoue K. , Maeda T. , Peterková R. , Lesot H. , Inoue J. , Akiyama T. , Schmidt-Ullrich R. , Liu B. , Hu Y. , Page A. , Ramírez Á. , Sharpe P.T. , Ohazama A.
Published: November 2014

Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling plays critical roles in many physiological and pathological processes, including regulating organogenesis. Down-regulation of NF-κB signaling during development results in hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia. The roles of NF-κB signaling in tooth development, however, are not fully understood. We examined mice overexpressing IKKβ, an essential component of the NF-κB pathway, under keratin 5 promoter ( K5-Ikkβ). K5-Ikkβ mice showed supernumerary incisors whose formation was accompanied by up-regulation of canonical Wnt signaling. Apoptosis that is normally observed in wild-type incisor epithelium was reduced in K5-Ikkβ mice. The supernumerary incisors in K5-Ikkβ mice were found to phenocopy extra incisors in mice with mutations of Wnt inhibitor, Wise. Excess NF-κB activity thus induces an ectopic odontogenesis program that is usually suppressed under physiological conditions.
The effect of midazolam on the recovery quality, recovery time and the minimum alveolar concentration for extubation in the isoflurane-anesthetized pig
Authors: Kleine S A , Quandt J E , Hofmeister E H , Peroni J
Published: November 2014

There are no reported studies evaluating the effect of midazolam on recovery quality, recovery time or minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) at which extubation occurs (MACextubation). Our hypotheses were that midazolam administered prior to recovery would decrease MACextubation, prolong recovery time but provide a smoother recovery. Sixteen Yorkshire pigs were anesthetized with isoflurane for approximately 5 h. The end-tidal isoflurane concentration was then stabilized at 1.4% for 20 min. Pigs were randomly assigned to receive midazolam or saline. The vaporizer was decreased by 10% every 10 min until extubation. Pigs were declared awake by a blinded observer and were assigned a recovery score by the same observer. Mean MACextubation was not significantly different for pigs receiving saline prior to recovery compared with those pigs receiving midazolam. The overall mean MACextubation for both groups was 0.6 ± 0.4 vol%. Time to extubation was not significantly longer with midazolam (124 ± 36 min) compared with the saline group (96 ± 61 min; P = 0.09). Recovery score was not significantly different between groups (midazolam, 0.86 ± 1.1; saline 0.5 ± 0.5; P = 0.26). In conclusion, midazolam did not affect MACextubation. There was no advantage of administering midazolam in the recovery period when performing step-down titration of isoflurane anesthesia.
Alliance Capabilities
Authors: Wang Yongzhi , Rajagopalan Nandini
Published: November 2014

A significant amount of empirical work has examined the role of alliances in enhancing firms’ innovative output and economic performance. Most of this research directly relates organizational and environmental attributes to alliance-related outcomes. However, in recent years, empirical research has begun to recognize the crucial role of alliance capabilities in explaining performance heterogeneities across alliances and across firms engaging in alliances. But no systematic review of the growing body of empirical research on alliance capabilities has been undertaken to help us understand why and how capabilities matter. In our paper, we first review prior empirical research on alliance capabilities, their antecedents, and their outcomes in terms of a framework that distinguishes between (1) three levels of analysis, an individual alliance versus a portfolio versus a dyad; and (2) two stages of the alliance, preformation versus postformation. We then advance the literature through an integrative conceptual framework of alliance capabilities that distinguishes capabilities in terms of their effects on value creation and value capture. Finally, we synthesize the insights from our review and integrative framework to provide methodological suggestions and identify underexplored theoretical themes for future work.
Postoperative Observation of Children after Endoscopic Type 1 Posterior Laryngeal Cleft Repair
Authors: Alexander Nathan S. , Liu Judy Z. , Bhushan Bharat , Holinger Lauren D. , Schroeder James W.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To report the perioperative management and surgical outcomes in a large series of pediatric patients with endoscopically repaired type 1 posterior laryngeal cleft (PLC).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Urban, tertiary care, free‐standing pediatric hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Patients who underwent endoscopic carbon dioxide laser–assisted repair of type 1 posterior laryngeal clefts between January 2006 and December 2012. Medical records were reviewed.

Results

Fifty‐four patients (34 male) underwent repair of type 1 PLC. Median age was 25.5 months (range, 2‐120 months). Indications for repair included aspiration (n = 39; 72%), chronic bronchitis (n = 13; 24%), and stridor with feeds (n = 2; 4%). No children remained intubated postoperatively. Thirty‐three patients (61%) stayed in overnight observation (“Obs PLC”) and 21 patients (39%) stayed in the pediatric intensive care unit (“PICU PLC”) postoperatively. Between Obs PLC and PICU PLC groups, there was no significant difference in age (mean 22 vs 30 months, respectively; P =. 28). Comorbidities were similar between the groups. Symptoms improved in 41 of the 54 patients (76%). No postoperative complications were noted. Two patients required revision PLC repair. The cost of admitting a patient to a lower acuity location was estimated to be 60% less per day than cost of a PICU admission.

Conclusions

The endoscopic surgical repair of a type 1 PLC is successful and has a low morbidity and complication rate. Patients may be safely managed in an observation unit and without postoperative intubation. This approach achieved a marked cost reduction in postoperative care.
Audience retrospection as a source of historiography: Oral history interviews on early television experiences
Authors: Dhoest Alexander
Published: November 2014

This article argues that oral history interviews constitute an invaluable source for reconstructing audience experiences of television in the past. Taking into account the limitations of human memory, as well as the constructive, structuring activities involved in ‘memory work’, these narratives provide useful, first-hand insights into the significance of television for audiences of the past. Starting from a discussion of audience historiography and the position therein of ‘popular memory’ and oral history, the article then draws on research about early Flemish TV audiences to discuss the multiple structures and connections to the present and to personal biography in television memories. Overall, the strength of this method lies not in the accuracy of these memories, but in their testimony of the lived experience and significance of television in everyday life.
Research using qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods and choice based on the research
Authors: McCusker K , Gunaydin S
Published: November 2014

Research is fundamental to the advancement of medicine and critical to identifying the most optimal therapies unique to particular societies. This is easily observed through the dynamics associated with pharmacology, surgical technique and the medical equipment used today versus short years ago. Advancements in knowledge synthesis and reporting guidelines enhance the quality, scope and applicability of results; thus, improving health science and clinical practice and advancing health policy. While advancements are critical to the progression of optimal health care, the high cost associated with these endeavors cannot be ignored. Research fundamentally needs to be evaluated to identify the most efficient methods of evaluation. The primary objective of this paper is to look at a specific research methodology when applied to the area of clinical research, especially extracorporeal circulation and its prognosis for the future.
Employing the long-term unemployed: A demand-side oriented policy in retail in Greater Paris
Authors: Rieucau Geraldine , Salognon Marie
Published: November 2014

Based on semi-structured interviews in Greater Paris, this article explores the recruitment methods used to fill elementary positions in retail in a buoyant labour market. It is argued that employers are involved in constructing individual employability. In Greater Paris, the obstacles low-skilled unemployed people face to obtain shop-floor positions are exacerbated by in-store hiring channels and preference for students. The article develops an understanding of an innovative demand-side oriented policy ( Méthode de recrutement par simulation, MRS) driven by the French Public Employment Services. By assessing and prioritizing practical and communication skills through exercises similar to working conditions, this programme contributes to reduce prejudices towards unemployed people and help them access low-skilled jobs.
The impact of the peritoneal glucose load index on hydration status and inflammation in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Hassan Kamal , Hassan Fadi , Edgem Rabia , Moshe Smadar , Hassan Shadi
Published: November 2014

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the peritoneal glucose load (PGL) on hydration status and inflammation in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients.

Methods

This cross-sectional study evaluated stable PD patients using a novel PGL index (PGLI), which was calculated as the net glucose content (g) in the PD solutions administered in the daily PD prescription divided by the dry body weight (kg) assessed by whole-body bioimpedance spectroscopy. The relationship between PGLI and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), fluid overload (FO), and inflammatory markers was investigated.

Results

A total of 43 stable PD patients participated in the study. Significant positive correlations were found between PGLI and HbA1c, FO, plasma high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels. HbA1c, FO, plasma hsCRP and plasma IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with PGLI >3 g/kg/day compared with those with PGLI ≤3 g/kg/day.

Conclusions

PGLI values >3 g/kg/day may be associated with poor glycaemic control, over hydration and augmented inflammation. PGLI might be a useful tool for the quantitative assessment of the PGL and could be applied when managing PD patients.
Pathologic and Environmental Studies Provide New Pathogenetic Insights Into Ringtail of Laboratory Mice
Authors: Recordati C. , Basta S. M. , Benedetti L. , Baldin F. , Capillo M. , Scanziani E. , Gobbi A.
Published: November 2014

Ringtail is a pathologic condition of laboratory rodents characterized by annular constrictions of the tail. Traditionally, it is classified as an environmental disorder caused by low relative humidity, but other factors (temperature, dietary deficiencies, genetic susceptibility, and caging type) have also been proposed. Twenty litters of mice with ringtail lesions occurred from September 2010 to August 2013 in a facility located in the northern Italy. Mice were maintained under controlled environmental conditions and fed a standard diet. Retrospective analysis of environmental data (relative humidity, temperature) was carried out. Gross, histopathologic, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy examination of tails and limbs was performed. The incidence of ringtail was 0.075% (20/26 800) of all weaned litters over the 3-year period of examination. Temperature and relative humidity remained within accepted limits in all cases except one. We observed annular constrictions in tail, digits of pes, crus, and antebrachium in 116 (100.0%), 47 (40.5%), 11 (9.5%), and 2 (1.7%) of 116 affected mice, respectively. Histologic and ultrastructural examination revealed abnormal keratin desquamation and presence of a keratin ring encircling the tail, causing progressive strangulation of the growing tail with subsequent compression and ulceration of underlying soft tissues, resulting in circulatory changes (edema, hyperemia, thrombosis, hemorrhages), ischemic necrosis, and eventually auto-amputation distal to the constriction. On the basis of our findings, we suggest a disorder of cornification as the primary lesion of ringtail in mice. The cause of these cases, however, remained undetermined, even though traditional etiologic factors (relative humidity, temperature, diet, caging type) were reasonably excluded.
Multicomponent Treatment for Food Selectivity in Children
Authors: Suarez Michelle Ann
Published: November 2014

Background: Food selectivity is common in children with and without developmental disabilities and can have negative implications for nutrition intake and family quality of life. The evidence base for effective treatment protocols is still developing. Methods: The purpose of this study was to describe a pilot, multicomponent treatment protocol for food selectivity and present several case examples using a retrospective chart review. Elements in the treatment manual included sensory integration and behavioral modification strategies, including systematic desensitization. Also, parents were educated on factors associated with food selectivity and strategies for increasing food acceptance during family meals. Results: Four children with food selectivity demonstrated increased food acceptance of previously refused foods. Incidence of negative behaviors, including gagging, vomiting, and aggressive behavior (eg, hitting, batting away spoon), during clinical meals was also evaluated. No aggressive behavior or vomiting was observed during treatment sessions, and gagging on foods at initial introduction was minimal. Conclusions: This descriptive study and case review provides information to inform treatment of food selectivity and may provide a catalyst for larger scale clinical trials.
Comparison of Complication Rates, Types, and Average Tube Patency Between Jejunostomy Tubes and Percutaneous Gastrostomy Tubes in a Regional Home Enteral Nutrition Support Program
Authors: Ao Peter , Sebastianski Meghan , Selvarajah Vijeyakumar , Gramlich Leah
Published: November 2014

Background: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes are common enteral access devices for long‐term enteral nutrition. Jejunostomy tubes (J‐tubes) are able to provide postpyloric enteral access in patients who are not PEG tube candidates. There is a scarcity of literature comparing complication rates of J‐tubes to PEG tubes. Objective: To compare and characterize J‐tube and PEG tube complications requiring tube replacement. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed on 560 patients discharged from the Northern Alberta Home Enteral Nutrition Support Program (NAHENSP) from January 2010 to December 2011. Patients were followed for 3 years from initial tube insertion or until discharge from the NAHENSP, whichever was earliest. Comparisons were made in terms of complications requiring tube replacement, tube patency to first replacement, and indications for tube replacement. Results: A total of 64 J‐tube patients were identified and compared with 65 PEG tube patients. Tube replacement rates for the J‐tube group included 3.2 cases per 1000 patient days compared with 0.86 cases per 1000 patient days in the PEG group (P < .001). The mean ± SEM duration to first tube replacement for J‐tube and PEG tube patients was 160 ± 26.3 days and 331 ± 53.6 days, respectively (P = .010). The most common causes for tube replacement in J‐tube patients were dislodgement (35.6%) and obstruction (22.2%) compared with routine replacement (54.5%) and dislodgement (27.2%) in the PEG tube group. Conclusion: J‐tubes are associated with higher complication rates requiring tube replacement compared with PEG tubes. The main causes of J‐tube replacement are dislodgement and obstruction.
Pretreatment With Caffeine Citrate to Increase Seizure Duration During Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Pinkhasov Aaron , Biglow Michael , Chandra Subhash , Pica Tiffany
Published: November 2014

Objective:

Due to the shortage of parenteral caffeine and sodium benzoate, patients were pretreated with caffeine citrate to increase therapeutic seizure duration during electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). To date, no data are available on the use of caffeine citrate during ECT. This retrospective case series was done to demonstrate utilization of caffeine citrate as a substitute for caffeine and sodium benzoate in optimizing ECT.

Method:

Medical records were reviewed to identify patients who received ECT and caffeine citrate. Physician notes were reviewed to determine the parameters of the ECT procedure, the seizure length, and the dose of caffeine citrate. Each chart was thoroughly studied to find the relationship between seizure duration and dose of caffeine citrate.

Results:

Of the 12 ECT treatments utilizing caffeine citrate, 9 achieved at least 1 session lasting >30 seconds with an average seizure duration of 35 seconds. Increase in seizure duration ranged from −41% to 276% with an average increase of 48%. Only 3 treatment sessions utilizing caffeine citrate showed no increase in seizure duration. Doses ranged from 120 to 600 mg of both oral and parenteral caffeine citrate. Although increase in seizure duration was achieved for the majority of the ECT sessions, no dose–response correlation could be made. No significant adverse reactions were noted with the use of caffeine citrate during ECT.

Conclusion:

It was determined that, much like caffeine and sodium benzoate, caffeine citrate does increase the seizure duration. However, this response did vary due to many reasons including small sample size, concomitant medications, duration of illness, and number of ECTs they received in the past and how long ago they received the last ECT. Further research is required to elucidate the effect of these variables on seizure duration.
Stiffness characterization of a 3-PPR planar parallel manipulator with actuation compliance
Authors: Wu Guanglei , Bai Shaoping , Kepler Jørgen
Published: November 2014

This paper investigates the stiffness of a compliant planar parallel manipulator. Instead of establishing stiffness matrix directly for planar mechanisms, we adopt the modeling approach for spatial mechanisms, which allows us to derive two decoupled homogeneous matrices, corresponding to the translational and rotational stiffness. This is achieved by resorting to the generalized eigenvalue problem, through which the eigenscrew decomposition is implemented to yield six screw springs. The principal stiffnesses and their directions are then identified from the eigenvalue problem of the two separated submatrices. In addition, the influence of the nonlinear actuation compliance to the manipulator stiffness is investigated, and the established stiffness model is experimentally verified.
Tyre–road friction coefficient estimation based on the discrete-time extended Kalman filter
Authors: Enisz Krisztian , Szalay Istvan , Kohlrusz Gabor , Fodor Denes
Published: November 2014

This paper presents a new algorithm for estimation of the instantaneous value and the maximum value of the tyre–road friction coefficient (the adhesion coefficient) depending on the quality of the road surface. The algorithm applies the discrete-time extended Kalman filter for state estimation. The underlying discrete-time non-linear state-space model was based on a two-wheel longitudinal vehicle dynamics model extended to include the scale factor parameter of the ‘magic formula’ for the longitudinal tyre force introduced by Pacejka. To verify the Kalman-filter-based algorithm, a validated real-time hardware-in-the-loop simulation environment was utilized, and the results were in agreement with the expectations.
Mechanical design, analysis, and laboratory testing of a dental implant with axial flexibility similar to natural tooth with periodontal ligament
Authors: Pektaş Ömer , Tönük Ergin
Published: November 2014

At the interface between the jawbone and the roots of natural teeth, a thin, elastic, shock-absorbing tissue, called the periodontal ligament, forms a cushion which provides certain flexibility under mechanical loading. The dental restorations supported by implants, however, involve comparatively rigid connections to the jawbone. This causes overloading of the implant while bearing functional loading together with neighboring natural teeth, which leads to high stresses within the implant system and in the jawbone. A dental implant, with resilient components in the upper structure (abutment) in order to mimic the mechanical behavior of the periodontal ligament in the axial direction, was designed, analyzed in silico, and produced for mechanical testing. The aims of the design were avoiding high levels of stress, loosening of the abutment connection screw, and soft tissue irritations. The finite element analysis of the designed implant revealed that the elastic abutment yielded a similar axial mobility with the natural tooth while keeping stress in the implant at safe levels. The in vitro mechanical testing of the prototype resulted in similar axial mobility predicted by the analysis and as that of a typical natural tooth. The abutment screw did not loosen under repeated loading and there was no static or fatigue failure.
Selective public policies: sustainability and neoliberal urban restructuring
Authors: Béal Vincent
Published: November 2014

This article deals with the transformation of urban environmental policies since the emergence of the concept of urban sustainability. It explores how the discursive frame of “sustainability” has favoured a hybrid neoliberalization of urban environmental policies in Manchester (UK) and Nantes (France). First, the paper describes the rise of entrepreneurial framing of the environment in the 1990s and 2000s. Second, it shows – with the example of eco-neighbourhood projects – how this new way of dealing with the environment led to specific and selective urban policies going hand in hand with the neoliberal restructuring of European cities. Third, it questions whether the notion of neoliberalization could be used to understand contemporary urban environmental strategies. It concludes by highlighting the heuristic potential of this notion when it goes along with careful case studies sensitive to contextual issues.
Introduction
Authors: Harcourt GC
Published: November 2014

The author provides an introductory commentary on six divergent responses to the 2013 ‘Marglin Manifesto’, proposing basic principles that might guide the quest to combine ecological sustainability with equitably redistributive development.
Micromechanics of shape memory alloy fiber–reinforced composites subjected to multi-axial non-proportional loadings
Authors: Damanpack AR , Aghdam MM , Shakeri M
Published: November 2014

In this article, micromechanical behavior of metal matrix reinforced with shape memory alloy fibers under combined thermo-mechanical loadings is investigated. A representative volume element consisting of circular/rectangular cross-sectional shape memory alloy fibers surrounded with aluminum matrix is considered to model micromechanical behavior of shape memory alloy composites. In order to simulate main features of shape memory alloy fibers, especially under multi-axial non-proportional loadings, Panico–Brinson constitutive model is employed. This model is able to predict martensite transformation, shape memory effect, pseudo-elasticity, and in particular reorientation of martensite variants which is responsible for non-proportional loadings. Furthermore, the response of aluminum matrix is assumed as a thermo-elastic-plastic material with linear kinematic work hardening. A finite element formulation containing incremental and iterative processes is developed to analyze the representative volume element in the state of generalized plane strain. Convergence, cost, and comparative studies are conducted to examine efficiency and accuracy of the developed solution. Then, a set of parametric study is directed to provide an insight into the influence of fiber volume fraction, fiber cross-sectional shape, pre-strain, and temperature on the micromechanical behavior of shape memory alloy composites subjected to multi-axial loadings. A significant coupling is observed between normal–normal/normal–shear/shear–shear strains during non-proportional multi-axial loadings which confirms the importance of simulation of martensite reorientation.