bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatosensory Impairments in the Upper Limb Poststroke
Authors: Meyer Sarah , De Bruyn Nele , Lafosse Christophe , Van Dijk Margaretha , Michielsen Marc , Thijs Liselot , Truyens Veronik , Oostra Kristine , Krumlinde-Sundholm Lena , Peeters Andre , Thijs Vincent , Feys Hilde , Verheyden Geert
Published: December 2015

Background. A thorough understanding of the presence of different upper-limb somatosensory deficits poststroke and the relation with motor performance remains unclear. Additionally, knowledge about the relation between somatosensory deficits and visuospatial neglect is limited. Objective. To investigate the distribution of upper-limb somatosensory impairments and the association with unimanual and bimanual motor outcomes and visuospatial neglect. Methods. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, including 122 patients within 6 months after stroke (median = 82 days; interquartile range = 57-133 days). Somatosensory measurement included the Erasmus MC modification of the (revised) Nottingham Sensory Assessment (Em-NSA), Perceptual Threshold of Touch (PTT), thumb finding test, 2-point discrimination, and stereognosis subscale of the NSA. Upper-limb motor assessment comprised the Fugl-Meyer assessment, motricity index, Action Research Arm Test, and Adult-Assisting Hand Assessment Stroke. Screening for visuospatial neglect was performed using the Star Cancellation Test. Results. Upper-limb somatosensory impairments were common, with prevalence rates ranging from 21% to 54%. Low to moderate Spearman ρ correlations were found between somatosensory and motor deficits ( r = 0.22-0.61), with the strongest associations for PTT ( r = 0.56-0.61) and stereognosis ( r = 0.51-0.60). Visuospatial neglect was present in 27 patients (22%). Between-group analysis revealed somatosensory deficits that occurred significantly more often and more severely in patients with visuospatial neglect ( P < .05). Results showed consistently stronger correlations between motor and somatosensory deficits in patients with visuospatial neglect ( r = 0.44-0.78) compared with patients without neglect ( r = 0.08-0.59). Conclusions. Somatosensory impairments are common in subacute patients poststroke and are related to motor outcome. Visuospatial neglect was associated with more severe upper-limb somatosensory impairments.
Exploring Self-Efficacy in Education Leadership Programs
Authors: Versland Tena M.
Published: December 2015

Despite attention given to principal preparation program reform, little research exists explaining how candidates develop self-efficacy or how preparation programs contribute to self-efficacy development. Researchers used a mixed-methods study to examine principals’ perceptions of program effectiveness, determine underlying constructs related to self-efficacy, explore how those factors functioned, and suggest ways to design program experiences promoting self-efficacy. Results suggest that program experiences should create opportunities for relationship building, authentic leadership experiences working with others, and persevering to build self-efficacy. Faculty can support efficacy development through creating instructional opportunities where students gain mastery of leading others in school improvement strategies, requiring internships of substantial length for relationship development, and designing rigorous coursework and program challenges with supportive structures to teach perseverance.
Internal Fixation of Unstable Osteochondritis Dissecans in the Skeletally Mature Knee with Metal Screws
Authors: Barrett Ian , King Alexander H. , Riester Scott , van Wijnen Andre , Levy Bruce A. , Stuart Michael J. , Krych Aaron J.
Published: December 2015

Purpose

Several bioabsorbable and metal options are available for internal fixation of an unstable osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesion, but currently there are little data on outcomes with metal headless compression screws in the adult knee. The purpose of this study was to determine (1) the radiographic healing rates, (2) midterm clinical outcomes, and (3) comparison between healed and unhealed OCD fragments after use of headless metal compression screws for the treatment of unstable OCD lesions in the knees of skeletally mature patients.

Methods

Retrospective chart review for all skeletally mature patients who presented with unstable femoral condyle OCD lesions of the knee was conducted. All patients underwent open or arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation using headless metal compression screws. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs were reviewed with healing defined as radiographic evidence of union of the OCD progeny fragment with the condyle. Clinical outcome data were collected retrospectively using 3 validated outcome scores: International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and Marx.

Results

Twenty-two knees in 22 patients with a mean age of 21 years (range= 14-37 years) were followed for an average of 8.7 years (range = 2-22 years). Metal, headless, cannulated compression screws were used in all 22 cases. At a mean of 31 months postoperatively (range = 2-262), fragment union was observed in 18 knees (82%). The remaining 4 knees (18%) required loose fragment excision and hardware removal at a mean of 9 months (range = 2-16 months) postoperatively. Mean postoperative Marx score was 7 (range = 0-16), the mean postoperative IKDC score was 85 (range = 62-100), and mean KOOS scores included KOOS Pain (93; range = 69-100), KOOS Symptoms (86; range = 71-100), KOOS ADL (98; range = 90-100), KOOS Sports (82; range = 50-100), and KOOS QOL (76; range = 50-100).

Conclusion

Headless metal compression screws provide a satisfactory union rate for treatment of unstable OCD lesions of the femoral condyles in skeletally mature patients. Patients achieving union have good knee function, maintain satisfactory activity levels, and have superior knee outcomes compared with those that failed to heal after fixation at mid to long-term follow-up.
High-grade primary myxoid lung sarcoma presenting as recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusions in a young woman
Authors: Tahir Hassan , Coleman Cinthia , Sagi Jahnavi , Wani Adil , Daruwalla Vistasp
Published: December 2015

Primary lung sarcomas are rare but aggressive tumors accounting for less than 0.5% of all lung tumors. The diagnosis of primary lung sarcoma should only be considered after exclusion of other sites. A 32-year-old female presented with recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusions, shortness of breath and persistent cough. Pleural effusion was drained twice, and each time its analysis was normal. Patient developed atelectasis of left lung with hemothorax for which she underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery. A large mass was found compressing the entire lower lobe of left lung with extension into mediastinum, the biopsy of which showed myxoid sarcoma. The tumor was inoperable and options of chemotherapy or radiotherapy were discussed with the patient. Primary lung sarcoma can rarely present with recurrent hemorrhagic pleural effusion. A high degree of suspicion is required for early diagnosis as large hemothorax on computed tomography or chest X-ray may obscure lung mass and make its diagnosis difficult.
Interest in Using Workplace Energy Expenditure Devices Among Primary Care Patients
Authors: Rovniak Liza S. , Sciamanna Christopher N. , George Daniel R. , Bopp Melissa , Kong Lan , Ding Ding
Published: December 2015

Background: Workplace energy expenditure devices (WEEDs), such as bicycle desks and treadmill desks, can contribute to weight gain prevention and disease risk-reduction. Little is known about the extent to which adults with diverse health risk factors are interested in using WEEDs. Methods: Primary care patients aged 18 to 65 years at 2 outpatient clinics in Central Pennsylvania completed a cross-sectional survey in April, 2014 to assess interest in using “a small pedaling device under the desk” and “walking on a treadmill with a desk attached” if these options were provided at no cost. Demographic and health risk factors were also assessed. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of demographic and health risk factors with interest in using WEEDs. Results: Among 240 patients, 106 (44.2%) reported interest in using WEEDs. Of these 106 patients, interest in using a bicycle desk (91.5%) was higher than interest in using a treadmill desk (65.1%), P < .001. Females were more likely than males to be interested in using a bicycle desk, and patients aged 18 to 44 years were more likely than those aged 45 to 65 years to be interested in using a treadmill desk. Conclusions: Results suggest that diverse patient populations may have interest in using WEEDs. Promoting use of WEEDs in primary care practices could help meet national standards for providing comprehensive, patient-centered care.
Spanish Consensus Statement
Authors: Fernandez-Jaén Tomas F. , Rey Guillermo Álvarez , Cuesta Jordi Ardevol , Loureda Rafael Arriaza , España Fernando Ávila , Matas Ramón Balius , Pazos Fernando Baró , de Dios Beas Jiménez Juan , Rosell Jorge Candel , Fernandez César Cobián , Ros Francisco Esparza , Colmenero Josefina Espejo , de Prado Jorge Fernández , Cota Juan José García , González Jose Ignacio Garrido , Santander Manuela González , Munilla Miguel Ángel Herrador , Ruiz Francisco Ivorra , Díaz Fernando Jiménez , Marqueta Pedro Manonelles , Fernandez Antonio Maestro , Benito Juan José Muñoz , Vilás Ramón Olivé , Teres Xavier Peirau , Amaro José Peña , Roque Juan Pérez San , Parenteu Christophe Ramírez , Serna Juan Ribas , Álvarez Mikel Sánchez , Marchori Carlos Sanchez , Soto Miguel del Valle , Alonso José María Villalón , García Pedro Guillen , de la Iglesia Nicolas Hugo , Alcorocho Juan Manuel Lopez
Published: December 2015

On the 21st of March, 2015, experts met at Clínica CEMTRO in Madrid, Spain, under the patronage of The Spanish Society for Sports Traumatology (SETRADE), The Spanish Federation of Sports Medicine (FEMEDE), The Spanish Association of Medical Services for Football Clubs (AEMEF), and The Spanish Association of Medical Services for Basketball Clubs (AEMB) with the aim of establishing a round table that would allow specialists to consider the most appropriate current general actions to be taken when treating muscle tears in sport, based on proven scientific data described in the medical literature. Each expert received a questionnaire prior to the aforementioned meeting comprising a set of questions concerning therapeutic indications generally applied in the different stages present during muscle repair. The present Consensus Document is the result of the answers to the questionnaire and resulting discussion and consensus over which are the best current indications in the treatment of muscle tears in sport. Avoiding immobilization, not taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) randomly, fostering early mobilization, increasing vascularization of injured, site and regulating inflammatory mechanisms—without inhibiting these from the early stages of the recovery period—all stood out as main points of the Consensus Document. Additionally, there is controversy concerning cell stimulation techniques and the use of growth factors or cell inhibitors. The decision concerning discharge was unanimous, as was the criteria considered when it came to performing sport techniques without pain.
Willem 3D: Reprocessed, inverted, revitalized
Authors: Sams Mark , Westlake Shane , Thorp Josh , Zadeh Ebrahim
Published: December 2015

The Carnarvon Basin on the North West Shelf of Australia is a world-class hydrocarbon province, with the pace of discoveries significantly accelerating in the last 15 years. The high success rate has been aided by improvements in seismic data quality, hydrocarbon detection techniques, and widespread 3D seismic surveys. This has led to the identification of several new play concepts, an increase in target depths, and an extension into more difficult seismic data areas. New broadband acquisition technologies undoubtedly have delivered a significant enhancement in many parts of the basin, but there is still much to be gained from existing 3D seismic data sets. Broadband seismic data reprocessing, prestack depth migration, and facies-based seismic inversion can offer a cost-efficient exploration tool to maintain the historical success rates. The open-file Willem 3D seismic survey adjacent to the giant Io/Jansz, Wheatstone, and Pluto gas fields is located in an area that has been explored insufficiently. The 2006 seismic data originally were regarded to be of good quality, but with advancements in acquisition and reprocessing techniques, the imaging result is now considered to be poor relative to modern-day seismic data sets. The Urania-1 gas discovery and northern extent of the Pluto field were detected on the original data, but other prospects based on this data set proved to be unsuccessful. The complex overlying Tertiary channels and the presence of shallow strong seismic attenuation caused historical data-imaging limitations. Recent prestack depth-migration reprocessing has improved the data quality, with deghosting providing a significant uplift throughout the processing workflow. A facies-based inversion of the reprocessed data has delineated the known gas accumulations successfully and has predicted the location and dimensions of the recent Woodside Petroleum Pyxis-1 gas discovery.
Wave-equation multiple imaging (WeMi) — Swimming between the flags
Authors: Bouloudas Paul
Published: December 2015

Deghosting dual-sensor streamer seismic data requires separation of the total recorded wavefield into upgoing and downgoing components during seismic preprocessing. Imaging of multiples exploits the wavefield separation process by using the downgoing wavefield at each receiver location as a virtual source. Multiple imaging has been shown to effectively remove shallow-acquisition-related artifacts commonly seen on wide-tow marine seismic surveys and improve imaging quality of the shallow overburden. Acquisition design factors, imaging condition, and cross-talk noise are the main factors that determine the effectiveness of separated wavefield imaging (SWIM) of dual-sensor streamer data. (SWIM is a common nontrademarked acronym used in the literature to describe multiple imaging of separated wavefields sampled from dual-sensor streamer data.) In a field trial, acquisition design did not allow for proper sampling of the total wavefield, with the result that multiple imaging did not prove to be as robust a technique as examples in the literature might imply. Understanding the effects of acquisition design parameters on image quality is essential to more successfully apply multiple-imaging techniques with greater relevance on the North West Shelf of Australia.
Applications of standard and advanced statistical methods to TOC estimation in the McArthur and Georgina basins, Australia
Authors: Emelyanova Irina , Pervukhina Marina , Clennell M. Ben , Dewhurst David N.
Published: December 2015

Multiple potential shale-gas plays have been identified in Australia. The total estimates of recoverable dry and wet shale gas exceed 157 tcf. Technological advances and more informed estimations of total organic carbon (TOC) abundance and distribution might further increase the assessments of recoverable shale gas. TOC content is known only at the depths where laboratory measurements on recovered core samples are performed. However, reliable estimation of potential resources can be based only on information about vertical and lateral distribution in organic matter throughout the prospective gas-shale reservoir. This information commonly is obtained from conventional wireline logs such as gamma ray, density, transit time, and resistivity. Methods routinely used for these estimations were developed for organic-rich shales from Northern American basins, where organic matter of marine Type I and Type II typically is observed. In prospective Australian basins, organic matter ranges from marine Type I to terrestrial Type III. This fact, along with different depositional history of Australian reservoirs, might lead to quite different logging-tool responses. Thus, the relations between the amount of TOC and estimation from logs might be quite different.
Antagonistic roles between Nibbler and Hen1 modulate piRNA 3' ends in Drosophila
Authors: Wang Hui , Ma Zaijun , Niu Kongyan , Xiao Yi , Wu Xiaofen , Pan Chenyu , Zhao Yun , Wang Kai , Zhang Yaoyang , Liu Nan
Published: December 2015

In eukaryotes, aberrant expression of transposable elements is detrimental to the host genome. Piwi-interacting RNAs of ∼23 to 30 nucleotides (nt) bound to PIWI-clade Argonaute proteins silence transposons strictly dependent on their sequence complementarity. Hence, a key question in understanding piRNA pathways is to determine mechanisms that modulate piRNA sequences. Here, we identify a protein-protein interaction between Nibbler (Nbr), a 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease and Piwi, linking Nbr activity with piRNA pathways. We show a delicate interplay between Nbr and Hen1, a methyltransferase involved in 2'-O-methylation at 3' terminal nucleotides of piRNAs, connecting two genes with opposing activities in biogenesis of piRNA 3' ends. With age, piRNAs become shorter and less, coupled with de-repression of select TEs. We demonstrate that activities of nbr and hen1 inherently contribute to TE silencing and age-dependent profiles of piRNAs. We propose that antagonistic roles between nbr and hen1 define a mechanism to modulate piRNA 3'ends.
Differentiation and molecular heterogeneity of inhibitory and excitatory neurons associated with midbrain dopaminergic nuclei
Authors: Lahti Laura , Haugas Maarja , Tikker Laura , Airavaara Mikko , Voutilainen Merja H. , Anttila Jenni , Kumar Suman , Inkinen Caisa , Salminen Marjo , Partanen Juha
Published: December 2015

Local inhibitory GABAergic and excitatory glutamatergic neurons are important for midbrain dopaminergic and hindbrain serotonergic pathways controlling motivation, mood, and voluntary movements. Such neurons reside both within the dopaminergic nuclei, and in adjacent brain structures, including the rostromedial and laterodorsal tegmental nuclei. Compared to the monoaminergic neurons, the development, heterogeneity, and molecular characteristics of these regulatory neurons are poorly understood. We show here that different GABAergic and glutamatergic subgroups associated with the monoaminergic nuclei express specific transcription factors. These neurons share common origins in the ventrolateral rhombomere 1, where postmitotic selector genes Tal1, Gata2, and Gata3 control the balance between the generation of inhibitory and excitatory neurons. In the absence of Tal1, or both Gata2 and Gata3, the GABAergic precursors adopt glutamatergic fates and populate the glutamatergic nuclei in excessive numbers. Together, our results uncover developmental regulatory mechanisms, molecular characteristics, and heterogeneity of central regulators of monoaminergic circuits.
Sperm-borne miRNAs and endo-siRNAs are important for fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development
Authors: Yuan Shuiqiao , Schuster Andrew , Tang Chong , Yu Tian , Ortogero Nicole , Bao Jianqiang , Zheng Huili , Yan Wei
Published: December 2015

Although it is believed that mammalian sperm carry small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) into oocytes during fertilization, it remains unknown whether these sperm-borne sncRNAs truly have any function during fertilization and preimplantation embryonic development. Germline-specific Dicer and Drosha conditional knockout (cKO) mice produce gametes (i.e., sperm and oocytes) partially deficient in miRNAs and/or endo-siRNAs, thus providing a unique opportunity for testing whether normal sperm (paternal) or oocyte (maternal) miRNA and endo-siRNA contents are required for fertilization and preimplantation development. Using the outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) as a readout, we found that sperm with altered miRNA and endo-siRNA profiles could fertilize wild-type (WT) eggs, but embryos derived from these partially sncRNA-deficient sperm displayed a significant reduction in developmental potential, which could be rescued by injecting WT sperm-derived total or small RNAs into ICSI embryos. Disrupted maternal transcript turnover and failure in early zygotic gene activation appeared to associate with the aberrant miRNA profiles in Dicer and Drosha cKO spermatozoa. Overall, our data support a critical function of paternal miRNAs and/or endo-siRNAs in the control of the transcriptomic homeostasis in fertilized eggs, zygotes and 2-cell embryos. Given that supplementation of sperm RNAs enhances both the developmental potential of preimplantation embryos and the live birth rate, it may represent a novel means to improve the success rate of assisted reproductive technologies in fertility clinics.
What happens to Allium saxatile M.Bieb. (Amaryllidaceae)? An unknown story of the well‐known name
Authors: Sennikov Alexander N. , Seregin Alexey P.
Published: December 2015

The present lectotypification of the Caucasian endemic Allium saxatile M.Bieb. is found ineffective and falling outside the current concept of the species. The original collections of A. saxatile were destroyed during the Russian Civil War, and conservation of this name is suggested to avoid its lectotypification from remaining illustrations which belong to the Siberian species A. stellerianum and A. rubens. This conservation would also remove the illegitimacy of A. saxatile M.Bieb. caused by homonymy with the overlooked earlier name A. saxatile Pall. The original material of A. caucasicum is identified and discussed, and the name is typified with an illustration referable to A. globosum. Two near‐homonyms of A. caucasicum, the originally heterotypic A. caucaseum and A. caucasium are uncovered, and their identity with A. globosum is ascertained.
An updated molecular phylogeny of Polygonoideae (Polygonaceae): Relationships of Oxygonum, Pteroxygonum, and Rumex, and a new circumscription of Koenigia
Authors: Schuster Tanja M. , Reveal James L. , Bayly Michael J. , Kron Kathleen A.
Published: December 2015

Many Polygonaceae are primary successors or “weedy” and Aconogonon polystachyum and species and hybrids of both Emex and Reynoutria are pernicious invasives outside their native ranges. Polygonaceae have a particularly muddled taxonomic history and despite ongoing systematic studies, there are still large ‐scale questions about evolutionary relationships within the group. In this study, we address the relationships of Aconogonon, Emex, Fallopia, Koenigia, Oxygonum, Polygonum, and Rumex. We clarify the evolutionary history of Polygonoideae by building on an existing molecular dataset (nrITS, matK, trnL‐trnF) analysed with maximum likelihood and Bayesian methods. Results indicate that the African Oxygonum is an isolated lineage likely sister to all other members of Polygonoideae, the two species of Emex are nested in the Rumex clade, Fallopia and Koenigia are polyphyletic with Aconogonon and Koenigia forming a clade, and Fallopia denticulata and F. cilinodis are separate from the Fallopia s.str. clade. Relationships within the Polygonum clade reflect geographic distribution with a North America clade sister to a clade containing cosmopolitan and Central Asian species. Based on these findings, we recognize Oxygoneae and Pteroxygoneae as tribes, include Aconogonon within Koenigia, and merge Emex with Rumex. Formal descriptions and nomenclatural changes are provided.
An Integrated Scheduling and Operations Approach to Airport Congestion Mitigation
Authors: Jacquillat Alexandre , Odoni Amedeo R.
Published: December 2015

Most flight delays are created by imbalances between demand and capacity at the busiest airports. Absent large increases in capacity, airport congestion can only be mitigated through scheduling interventions or improved capacity utilization. This paper presents an integrated approach that jointly optimizes the airport’s flight schedule at the strategic level and the utilization of airport capacity at the tactical level, subject to scheduling, capacity, and delay-reduction constraints. The capacity-utilization part involves controlling the runway configuration and the balance of arrival and departure service rates to minimize congestion costs. The schedule optimization reschedules a selected set of flights to reduce the demand-capacity mismatches while minimizing interference with airline competitive scheduling. We develop an original iterative solution algorithm that integrates a stochastic queuing model of airport congestion, a dynamic programming model of capacity utilization, and an integer programming model of scheduling interventions. The algorithm is shown to converge in reasonable computational times. Extensive computational results for JFK Airport suggest that substantial delay reductions can be achieved through limited changes in airline schedules. It is also shown that the proposed integrated approach to airport congestion mitigation performs significantly better than the typical sequential approach, where scheduling and operational decisions are made separately.
The utility of repeat ultrasound imaging in the follow-up of metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty patients
Authors: Matharu GS , Janardhan S , Brash L , Pynsent PB , Dunlop DJ , James SLJ
Published: January 2016

Introduction

We assessed changes in metal-on-metal hip arthroplasties (MoMHAs) after repeat ultrasound examination.

Methods

This retrospective, single-centre cohort study involved all patients undergoing two ultrasound examinations of the same MoMHA. Between 2010 and 2014, 96 ultrasound examinations were performed in 48 MoMHAs (mean time between scans = 1.1 years). A radiologist assigned each scan to one of four grades and measured volumes of any solid/cystic masses. Changes in grade and lesion volume between scans were analysed.

Results

Change in grade between scans was significant (p=0.012); 27% (n=13) of MoMHAs increased in grade, 67% (n=32) had no grade change, and 6% (n=3) decreased in grade. The mean increase in lesion volume was 24.2cm3 by the second scan, and was significant (p=0.023). Evidence of progression in findings was observed in 54% (26/48) of MoMHAs. Of patients with normal scans initially, 44% (8/18) developed abnormalities. No factors (including blood metal ion concentrations and cup position) were associated significantly with progression of ultrasound findings.

Conclusions

Repeat ultrasound in MoMHA patients demonstrated that findings frequently progress in the short-term. Therefore, regular surveillance of MoMHA patients is important, with ultrasound representing an effective investigation for identifying the development and progression of lesions.
Tendencias y demandas de investigación en infancia y comunicación
Authors: Ruiz San Román José Antonio
Published: January 2016

La Asociación Infancia y Comunicación (Kids&com) se ha propuesto la promoción de números monográficos en revistas científicas de prestigio que den cuenta de la tarea investigadora que muchos grupos de investigación están desarrollando. Con esa finalidad se publicó en 2014 un monográfico en la revista Comunicar coordinado por las Dras. García Galera y Valdivia (2014) sobre prosumidores mediáticos. En esa línea, ve ahora la luz en la Revista Mediterránea de Comunicación esta colección de investigaciones que hemos titulado “Infancia y Comunicación. Tendencias y demandas de investigación”.
Obstacle Avoidance Method for a Group of Humanoids Inspired by Social Force Model
Authors: Sadiyoko Ali , Trilaksono Bambang Riyanto , Mutijarsa Kusprasapta , Adiprawita Widyawardana
Published: December 2015

This paper presents a new formulation for obstacle and collision behavior on a group of humanoid robots that adopts walking behavior of pedestrian crowd. A pedestrian receives position information from the other pedestrians, calculate his movement and then continuing his objective. This capability is defined as socio-dynamic capability of a pedestrian. Pedestrian’s walking behavior in a crowd is an example of a sociodynamics system and known as Social Force Model (SFM). This research is trying to implement the avoidance terms in SFM into robot’s behavior. The aim of the integration of SFM into robot’s behavior is to increase robot’s ability to maintain its safety by avoiding the obstacles and collision with the other robots. The attractive feature of the proposed algorithm is the fact that the behavior of the humanoids will imitate the human’s behavior while avoiding the obstacle. The proposed algorithm combines formation control using Consensus Algorithm (CA) with collision and obstacle avoidance technique using SFM. Simulation and experiment results show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Relações hídricas em hastes florais de copo-de-leite colhidas em diferentes estádios de abertura
Authors: Sales Thais Silva , Paiva Patrícia Duarte de Oliveira , Manfredini Guilherme Mariano , Nascimento Ângela Maria Pereira , Castro Maria Leandra Resende
Published: December 2015

Cut flowers are a well established product and require conservation techniques that help keep postharvest quality for marketing. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate different opening stages of calla lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica) cut stems and their influence on posthaverst. Calla lily stems were harvested in the morning, according to the following opening stages: closed spathe, semi-closed spathe (1/3 open), semi-open spathe (2/3 open) and fully open spathe. Once selected and standardized, stems were placed in a controlled room at 21 ± 2 °C and relative humidity of 75 ± 5%, for eight days. The evaluations were conducted daily, observing water pH, commercial quality analysis, width and length of the spathe, fresh weight of stem, water absorption and transpiration. The experimental design was completely randomized, with four treatments (opening stages), five replicates and two stems by plot. The model used was split plot in time, with harvest stages as plots, and evaluation days as subplots. Calla lily harvested at closed spathe and semi-closed spathe (1/3 open), showed spathe opening, although it did not achieve fully spathe expansion, had higher water uptake and hydration of flower stems, and increased water retention capacity by floral tissues until saturation, followed by a period of weight reduction caused by transpiration rates greater than absorption.
Health Insurance as a Tool of Electoral Tactical Redistribution in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Shroff Zubin Cyrus , Kumar Sanjay , Reich Michael R.
Published: January 2016

We used individual level survey data to examine the distribution of health insurance and other welfare programs by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in Tamil Nadu. Core DMK supporters were more likely to receive welfare benefits than swing voters and opposition loyalists. Political analysis is important to understand motivations for establishing these programs.
The Hollow Knock and Other Sounds in Recipes
Authors: Harris Anna
Published: January 2016

Recipes are filled with sensory directions related to taste, appearance, texture, and smell, but less often to the sounds of food cooking. While cooking and eating, whether at home or in a restaurant, are recognized as sonic experiences, we are rarely specifically instructed to “listen in.” Some scholars argue that such skills cannot be written into recipes, but rather must be passed on in practice. While I largely agree with this claim, I was challenged to find exceptions in cookbooks. In this essay, I discuss some of the few but delightful examples of sonic instruction in recipes. I conclude that while sounds are rare in cookbooks, as these examples show, listening is a skill that provides valuable information in the kitchen.
Sildenafil Treatment of Infants With Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia–Associated Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Backes Carl H. , Reagan Patricia B. , Smith Charles V. , Jadcherla Sudarshan R. , Slaughter Jonathan L.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE:

This study had 2 goals: (1) to identify clinical and demographic characteristics associated with sildenafil exposure for infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)-associated pulmonary hypertension (PH); and (2) to characterize hospital-specific treatment frequency, age at first administration, and length of sildenafil treatment.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Pediatric Health Information System to determine variables associated with sildenafil exposure and between-hospital variations in sildenafil utilization patterns. The study included infants with BPD-PH who were discharged between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2013.

RESULTS:

Within 36 US pediatric hospitals, 3720 infants were diagnosed with BPD, of whom 598 (16%) also had a diagnosis of PH (BPD-PH). Among infants with BPD-PH, 104 infants (17%) received sildenafil. The odds for sildenafil treatment among infants born between 25 and 26 weeks’ gestational age (GA) and <24 weeks’ GA, respectively, were 2.26 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–4.24) and 3.21 (95% CI: 1.66–6.21) times those of infants born at 27 to 28 weeks’ GA. Severity of BPD correlated with sildenafil exposure, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for moderate BPD (OR: 3.03 [95% CI: 1.03–8.93]) and severe BPD (OR: 7.56 [95% CI: 2.50–22.88]), compared with mild BPD. Greater rates of sildenafil exposure were observed among small for GA neonates (OR: 2.32 [95% CI: 1.21–4.46]). The proportion of infants with BPD-PH exposed to sildenafil varied according to hospital (median: 15%; 25th–75th percentile: 0%–25%), as did the median duration of therapy (52 days; 25th–75th percentile: 28–109 days).

CONCLUSIONS:

The odds of sildenafil treatment were greatest among the most premature infants with severe forms of BPD. The frequency and duration of sildenafil exposure varied markedly according to institution. Patient-centered trials for infants with BPD-PH are needed to develop evidence-based practices.
Marking Time in the Inca Empire
Authors: Gullberg Steven R.
Published: December 2015

The Incas worshipped the Sun with light and shadow effects in their constructs commonly denoting such events as the solstices and equinoxes. They used these orientations, as well as solar pillars, to mark time passage for purposes of crop management and religious festivals. New research was conducted and photo-documentation of Inca intentional light and shadow effects is presented. Data was examined in a cultural context and supports a well-developed calendrical system. Several examples are examined within.
EXPERIMENTAL PARACOCCIDIOIDOMYCOSIS IN PREGNANT RATS
Authors: LOTH Eduardo Alexandre , CECATTO Vanessa , BIAZIM Samia Khalil , FERREIRA José Henrique Fermino , DANIELLI Caroline , GENSKE Rodrigo Daniel , GANDRA Rinaldo Ferreira , FRANCO Marcello Fabiano de
Published: January 2016

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM), caused by the dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (Pb), is the most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America. There are few reports in the literature about the disease damages during pregnancy and the consequences to the fetuses and breeding. This study evaluated the implications of PCM during pregnancy on offspring and mothers in Wistar rats. Groups of rats were submitted to systemic Pb infection, by intraperitoneal infusion, and mated 30 days after the infection date. Immediately after birth, rats and neonates were sacrificed to obtain organs for standard histological examination, morphometric analysis, fungi recovery by plating (CFU) and dosing of anti-Pb antibodies by ELISA. There were no stillbirths or miscarriages, however, the fetuses from infected pregnant rats had lower body and organ weight but the fertility rate was 100%. The largest number of CFU was recovered from the organ of pregnant rats, the pathological examination revealed more severe infection in the same group, further on the largest number of granulomas and fungal field. It can be concluded that the PCM was more severe in the group of pregnant rats, with implications to the weight of offspring.
Teratogenic processes in an embryo without gills and low yolk absorption of Zapteryx brevirostris (Elasmobranchii: Rhinobatidae)
Authors: Carmo Wanessa Priscila David do , Fávaro Luís Fernando
Published: January 2016

Abstract This is the first report of morphological anomaly in embryos of Zapteryx brevirostris (Lesser guitarfish), a very common species in Brazil. The gills were absent, and the pectoral fins were not fully formed nor were they completely fused to the head. They were asymmetrical, with the larger left pectoral fin projecting more toward the head (almost at the height of the eyes). The pelvic fin was absent, making sexing impossible. The cause of the morphological deformity is uncertain, although a nutritional problem of the embryo is evoked.
Incidence of Amblyopia and Its Risk Factors in Children with Isolated Metopic Craniosynostosis
Authors: Nguyen Thuan B. , Shock Leslie A. , Missoi Tara G. , Muzaffar Arshad R.
Published: December 2015

Objective

Ophthalmic abnormalities in children with syndromic craniosynostosis have been reported previously, and referral of these children to a pediatric ophthalmologist is recommended. However, it is not as clear whether a child with nonsyndromic synostosis needs to be referred to a pediatric ophthalmologist. The aim of this study is to report the incidence of amblyopia and its risk factors in children with isolated metopic craniosynostosis.

Design

An institutional review board–approved, retrospective review was performed on 91 children diagnosed with isolated metopic craniosynostosis. Ophthalmologic records were reviewed for diagnoses of amblyopia, strabismus, and refractive error.

Results

Of the 91 children, 19 (20.9%) had astigmatism, eight (8.8%) had amblyopia, eight (8.8%) had strabismus, five had myopia (5.5%), five had hyperopia (5.5%), and five had anisometropia (5.5%). The incidence of amblyopia and its risk factors found in our study are higher than the rate found in the clinically normal pediatric population.

Conclusions

In our patient population, children with isolated metopic craniosynostosis demonstrate an increased rate of amblyopia and its risk factors. Amblyopia is best treated early in life to achieve a successful outcome. A referral to a pediatric ophthalmologist for a formal eye exam and potential treatment is therefore recommended for children with isolated metopic craniosynostosis.
Interlinkages between Equity Markets of Select A5 Countries and US
Authors: Kalsie Anjala
Published: December 2015

The objective of this paper is to assess inter-linkages between the equity markets of India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Korea with US. The inter-linkages is assessed using co-integration approach. The analysis covers three periods i.e. pre-crisis period, during crisis and post-crisis period. The secondary objective is to analyse the direction of causality between US S& P 500 and the stock indices of India, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Korea respectively. The paper found that there are inter-linkages between the equity markets of India, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Korea with US. During the crises returns of S&P 500 are caused by returns of SENSEX, JKSE AND KOSPI.
Inward Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Development: A Global Perspective
Authors: Murthy K. V. Bhanu , Sinha Manoj Kumar
Published: December 2015

The economic basis of globalisation lies in multilateralism where the intended impact is allocative efficiency. So, it can be said about foreign direct investment (FDI) that multilateralism implies importing capital from a variety of sources as may be most efficient rather than restricting them to a bilateral basis. This forms the motivation of this paper. This paper has used principal component analysis (PCA) and panel regression approaches. The study builds up a methodology for measuring and testing the determinants of the patterns of global inward FDI. These determinants are a large set of developmental variables. The study evolves a set of six composite indices by using of PCA, namely human resource, infrastructure, labour, market, trade openness and resource. The results establish certain basic principles of FDI theory in terms of efficiency-seeking FDI, resource-seeking FDI and market-seeking FDI.
Current State and Performance Review of SEZs in India: A Survey
Authors: Sharma S P , Taneja Rashmi , Munjal Apurva
Published: December 2015

The establishment of the India’s first Special Economic Zones (SEZ) unit and the consequent announcement of a comprehensive SEZs Act in February 2006, bestowed a number of benefits to SEZs in terms of fiscal incentives and state of art infrastructure. Since then SEZs have witnessed generation of employment, investments and exports over a period of time. The current survey has been undertaken to highlight the efficiency and issues of SEZs and their expectations with regard to the formulation and modification of policies. The survey reveals that while some progress has been made in the effective functioning of the SEZs, yet the expected benefits have not been reaped. High operational cost, fall in market demand, global slowdown, lack of skilled manpower are some reasons held accountable why SEZs in India have not taken off. Furthermore, it is found that operating in Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) has become more beneficial as compared to operating within SEZs especially after withdrawal of exemption for Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) and Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) for the SEZs. A robust policy design and efficient implementation can lead to the effective functioning of the SEZs which is an important mechanism for promoting trade and investment, along with generation of employment.
An Analysis of Users’ Perceptions on Health Facilities in Mumbai
Authors: Sheth Hiral
Published: December 2015

The new challenges of globalisation have made it essential to achieve and sustain a high level of efficiency in the provision of healthcare. Even though the Government of Maharashtra clearly views assuring efficiency and providing public health services to the people as an important policy objective, data reveals that the amount of resources spent on public healthcare especially public hospitals is very meagre as compared to the needs of the population. This study attempts to understand the shift from public to the private health sector by the users of health services in the city of Mumbai. This changing trend towards increasing use of private hospitals for healthcare services was analysed to understand the specific reasons behind the privatisation of health services in this metropolitan city. Using primary survey, the analysis revealed that majority of the users preferred private hospital services due to various reasons like cleanliness, better infrastructure, efficient and competent doctors and other staff. The results also indicated significant inefficiencies in the functioning of the public hospitals as noted from the responses of the users.
Total Quality Management (TQM) in Higher Education in India
Authors: Roy Swapan Kumar , Roy Suhas
Published: December 2015

Education is an important and effective tool of social change and a means of improving the welfare of an individual. Higher education contributes to national development through dissemination of specialised knowledge and skills. Higher education institutions are a major source for providing the human capital required for knowledge production. In an environment of global competitiveness, it is important that the quality and standard of Indian higher education institutions is enhanced and sustained at a high level through innovation, creativity and regular monitoring. Here lies the importance of introducing Total Quality Management (TQM) in higher education. In this backdrop, an attempt has been made in this paper to discuss the concept of TQM and to examine the ways in which the quality of higher education institutions in India can be improved using the TQM mechanism.
Surviving the Ordeal of Poverty: A Study of Bangladesh
Authors: Goyal J. K. , Kakar Deepti
Published: December 2015

Bangladesh is categorized as a low income economy by the World Bank and faces a congenital problem of poverty. Its experience with this problem is noteworthy due to several reasons that include peculiarities of its economy, geography, demographics and culture. Once considered to be a country doomed to rely on foreign aid forever for its sustenance, Bangladesh has rewritten its fate. Despite unfavourable circumstances manifested in the above dimensions, the country is now being celebrated as an example of success over poverty, especially on account of commendable poverty reduction in the first decade of the 21st century. This paper explores the origins of poverty in Bangladesh, highlighting the reasons for the same and takes an account of the poverty estimates. A discussion on economic planning and poverty alleviation programmes as instruments for poverty reduction reveals the efforts made at the level of the Government to tackle the poverty problem. However, the impact of these measures has been limited. The paper discusses the reasons underlying Bangladesh’s success in reducing poverty.
Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility Practices on Neighbouring Society: A Case Study of NLC Ltd., Tamil Nadu
Authors: Jayakumar A. , Elavarasan R.
Published: December 2015

Right from its inception, Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) has been taking up various CSR projects and activities for the benefits of inhabitants of surrounding villages and the welfare of the neighboring society at large. In 1998-99 the Scheme for Building Social Infrastructure in NLC’s surrounding areas was regularized with the formation of Peripheral and Community Development Committee under the chairpersonship of the District Collector. NLC had adopted a full-fledged CSR policy in the year 2009-10. The vision to continue to be a socially responsible company and the mission to play an active role in the society and to be sensitive to the emerging environmental issues integrate the business objectives with the CSR objectives. The details on various CSR activities of NLC are given in this paper. NLC is allocating 1% of its profit after tax as annual CSR budget. NLC, as a Socially Responsible Corporate Citizen extended financial assistance for the relief and rehabilitation works.
Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in India’s Service Sector
Authors: Bhasin Niti
Published: December 2015

With the ever-growing importance of services sector in India’s economy, this paper seeks to identify the determinants of FDI in the services sector. The study uses ordinary least squares regression analysis and examines the impact of GDP, GDP per capita, trade openness, FDI openness, and labour cost on FDI inflows. We also use another specification to include the lagged dependent variable as an explanatory variable. Using annual data for the period 1991 to 2010, we find that FDI inflows in the services sector in India are significantly determined by national income, GDP per capita, trade openness, FDI openness and skilled labour availability. This confirms the view that FDI in the services sector is efficiency-seeking and greater availability of skilled labour in India leads to greater inflows of FDI in services sector.
Relationship between Inward FDI and Exports: Evidence from India
Authors: Bedi Priyanka
Published: December 2015

The economic reforms that were ushered in during 1991 have greatly contributed to the growth of exports in India. After pursuing, import substitution strategy for nearly four decades, India adopted export led growth strategy in 1991. The new economic policy removed all sorts of restrictions on international trade and investment giving green signal to FDI inflows. Consequently, India experienced significant increase in FDI inflows in the last two decades. This paper has two objectives. First, it investigates the trends of FDI inflows and exports in India during the period 1980 to 2011. Secondly, it attempts to examine the economic relationship between FDI inflows and export growth in India for the same period using the Granger causality test. The study found bi-directional causality between inward FDI and exports. Hence, policies attracting FDI should be implemented to further boost India’ exports.