bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kirschner wire fixation of Salter-Harris type IV fracture of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle in growing dogs
Authors: Cinti Filippo , Pisani Guido , Vezzoni Luca , Peirone Bruno , Vezzoni Aldo
Published: November 2016

Objectives: To evaluate the use of Kirschner wires for treatment of fractures of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle in growing dogs.

Methods: Retrospective analysis of 35 elbow fractures (33 dogs) of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle treated by insertion of multiple transcondylar and one anti-rotational Kirschner wires. Radiographic and clinical re-evaluations were carried out immediately after surgery, at four weeks and, when required, at eight weeks postoperatively. Long-term follow-up was planned after a minimum of six months. The relationship between different implant configurations and clinical outcome was analysed statistically.

Results: Complete functional recovery was seen in 31 elbows (30 dogs), three elbows (2 dogs) had reduction in the range of motion, and one elbow (1 dog) had persistent grade 1 lameness two months postoperatively. Major complications occurred in eight elbows (8 dogs) and all were resolved by implant removal. Implant configuration did not affect outcome. Long-term evaluation in 12 cases with a mean follow-up of four years showed absence of lameness, normal function and no or mild radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis in 11 cases.

Clinical significance: Fracture of the lateral aspect of the humeral condyle in growing dogs can be successfully treated by multiple transcondylar convergent or parallel Kirschner wires, resulting in adequate fracture healing.
Biomechanical comparison of two ostectomy configurations for partial mandibulectomy
Authors: Matz Brad , Farag Ramsis , Boothe Harry , Tillson D. , Henderson Ralph , Linden Daniel
Published: November 2016

Objective: To determine the stiffness and load to failure of two different ostectomy configurations using canine mandibles.

Study design: Cadaveric biomechanical assessment.

Animals: Paired mandibles (n = 30).

Methods: Standardized partial ostectomies were created on the alveolar surface of 30 mandibles. Samples were randomly assigned to right-angled (n = 15) or crescentic ostectomy (n = 15). Excision spanned the mesial aspect of the fourth premolar tooth to the distal aspect of first molar tooth. Mandibles were loaded to failure in three-point ben-ding. The stiffness, displacement at maximum load, and load to failure were measured.

Results: There was no significant difference in stiffness (p = 0.59), displacement at maximum load (p = 0.16) and load to failure (p = 0.76) between right-angled or crescentic ostectomy. Right-angled and crescentic ostectomy failed mostly by fracture through an empty alveolus (11/15 and 13/15, respectively).

Clinical relevance: No significant differences in load to failure or stiffness between ostectomy techniques were observed. Crescentic ostectomy did not improve the acute load to failure for partial mandibulectomy. The empty alveolus served as a focal stress concentration point eliminating the potential mechanical advantage of a crescentic ostectomy.
Human Muse Cells, Nontumorigenic Phiripotent-Like Stem Cells, Have Liver Regeneration Capacity through Specific Homing and Cell Replacement in a Mouse Model of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Iseki Masahiro , Kushida Yoshihiro , Wakao Shohei , Akimoto Takahiro , Mizuma Masamichi , Motoi Fuyuhiko , Asada Ryuta , Shimizu Shinobu , Unno Michiaki , Chazenbalk Gregorio , Dezawa Mari
Published: November 2016

Muse cells, a novel type of nontumorigenic pluripotent-like stem cells, reside in the bone marrow, skin, and adipose tissue and are collectable as cells positive for pluripotent surface marker SSEA-3. They are able to differentiate into cells representative of all three germ layers. The capacity of intravenously injected human bone marrow-derived Muse cells to repair an immunodeficient mouse model of liver fibrosis was evaluated in this study. The cells exhibited the ability to spontaneously differentiate into hepatoblast/hepatocyte lineage cells in vitro. They demonstrated a high migration capacity toward the serum and liver section of carbon tetrachloride-treated mice in vitro. In vivo, they specifically accumulated in the liver, but not in other organs except, to a lesser extent, in the lungs at 2 weeks after intravenous injection in the liver fibrosis model. After homing, Muse cells spontaneously differentiated in vivo into HepPar-1 (71.1±15.2%), human albumin (54.3±8.2%), and anti-trypsin (47.9±4.6%)-positive cells without fusing with host hepatocytes, and expressed mature functional markers such as human CYP1A2 and human Glc-6-Pase at 8 weeks after injection. Recovery in serum, total bilirubin, and albumin and significant attenuation of fibrosis were recognized with statistical differences between the Muse cell-transplanted group and the control groups, which received the vehicle or the same number of a non-Muse cell population of MSCs (MSCs in which Muse cells were eliminated). Thus, unlike ESCs and iPSCs, Muse cells are unique in their efficient migration and integration into the damaged liver after intravenous injection, nontumorigenicity, and spontaneous differentiation into hepatocytes, rendering induction into hepatocytes prior to transplantation unnecessary. They may repair liver fibrosis by two simple steps: expansion after collection from the bone marrow and intravenous injection. A therapeutic strategy such as this is feasible and may provide significant advancements toward liver regeneration in patients with liver disease.
A Comparison of Exogenous Labels for the Histological Identification of Transplanted Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Nicholls Francesca J. , Liu Jessie R. , Modo Michel
Published: November 2016

The interpretation of cell transplantation experiments is often dependent on the presence of an exogenous label for the identification of implanted cells. The exogenous labels Hoechst 33342, 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU), PKH26, and Qtracker were compared for their labeling efficiency, cellular effects, and reliability to identify a human neural stem cell (hNSC) line implanted intracerebrally into the rat brain. Hoechst 33342 (2 mg/ml) exhibited a delayed cytotoxicity that killed all cells within 7 days. This label was hence not progressed to in vivo studies. PKH26 (5 μM), Qtracker (15 nM), and BrdU (0.2 μM) labeled 100% of the cell population at day 1, although BrdU labeling declined by day 7. BrdU and Qtracker exerted effects on proliferation and differentiation. PKH26 reduced viability and proliferation at day 1, but this normalized by day 7. In an in vitro coculture assay, all labels transferred to unlabeled cells. After transplantation, the reliability of exogenous labels was assessed against the gold standard of a human-specific nuclear antigen (HNA) antibody. BrdU, PKH26, and Qtracker resulted in a very small proportion (<2%) of false positives, but a significant amount of false negatives (~30%), with little change between 1 and 7 days. Exogenous labels can therefore be reliable to identify transplanted cells without exerting major cellular effects, but validation is required. The interpretation of cell transplantation experiments should be presented in the context of the label's limitations.
Is Immune Modulation the Mechanism Underlying the Beneficial Effects of Amniotic Cells and Their Derivatives in Regenerative Medicine?
Authors: Silini Antonietta R. , Magatti Marta , Cargnoni Anna , Parolini Ornella
Published: November 2016

Regenerative medicine aims to repair and regenerate damaged cells, tissues, and organs in order to restore function. Regeneration can be obtained either by cell replacement or by stimulating the body's own repair mechanisms. Importantly, a favorable environment is required before any regenerative signal can stimulate resident stem/stromal cells, and regeneration is possible only after the resolution of injury-induced inflammation. An exacerbated immune response is often present in cases of degenerative, inflammatory-based diseases. Here we discuss how amniotic membrane cells, and their derivatives, can contribute to the resolution of many diseases with altered immune response by acting on different inflammatory mediators.
A Subpopulation of Dopaminergic Neurons Coexpresses Serotonin in Ventral Mesencephalic Cultures but not after Intrastriatal Transplantation in a Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Di Santo Stefano , Seiler Stefanie , Ducray Angélique D. , Meyer Morten , Widmer Hans Rudolf
Published: November 2016

Cell replacement therapy is a promising avenue into the investigation and treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD), and in some cases, significant long-term motor improvements have been demonstrated. The main source of donor tissue is the human fetal ventral mesencephalon (FVM), which consists of a mixed neuronal population, and its heterogeneity likely contributes to the inconsistent outcome observed in clinical trials. Therefore, detailed knowledge about the neuronal subpopulations in the VM seems essential for successful cell transplantation. Interestingly, it has been reported that some tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (TH+) neurons in the VM of adult rats and in cultured midbrain-derived neuroblasts coexpress additional neurotransmitters. Thus, the present study investigated, by means of colocalization analyses, the possible expression of GABA or serotonin in TH+neurons. For that purpose, both fetal rat and human dissociated, organotypic and neurosphere FVM cultures as well as an animal model of PD were investigated. In dissociated rat FVM cultures, approximately 30% of the TH+neurons coexpressed serotonin, while no colocalization with GABA was observed. Interestingly, coexpression of TH and serotonin was found to be dependent on the time in culture, the plating density, and the exposure to neurotrophic factors, that is, higher cell densities and treatment with brain-derived neurotrophic factor resulted in a significantly reduced coexpression rate. Notably, even though approximately 30% of the dopaminergic neurons in the donor tissue coexpressed serotonin, no colocalization could be detected in grafts 1 month after intrastriatal transplantation into hemiparkinsonian rats. In conclusion, a significant and susceptible subpopulation of dopaminergic neurons in FVM tissues coexpresses serotonin. This might have potential implications for the future selection and handling of cells prior to transplantation in PD.
Tinnitus Management: Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Extended-Wear Hearing Aids, Conventional Hearing Aids, and Combination Instruments
Authors: Henry James A. , McMillan Garnett , Dann Serena , Bennett Keri , Griest Susan , Theodoroff Sarah , Silverman Shien Pei , Whichard Susan , Saunders Gabrielle
Published: November 2016

Background:Whereas hearing aids have long been considered effective for providing relief from tinnitus, controlled clinical studies evaluating this premise have been very limited.Purpose:The purpose of this study was to systematically determine the relative efficacy of
conventional receiver-in-the-canal hearing aids (HA), the same hearing aids with a sound generator (HA+SG), and extended-wear, deep fit hearing aids (EWHA), to provide relief from tinnitus through a randomized controlled trial. Each of these ear-level devices was a product of Phonak, LLC.Research
Design:Participants were randomized to HA, HA+SG, or EWHA and wore bilaterally fit devices for about 4 months. Fittings, adjustments, and follow-up appointments were conducted to comply with company guidelines and to ensure that all participants attended appointments on the same schedule.
At 4‐5 months, participants returned to complete final outcome measures, which concluded their study participation.Study Sample:Participants were 55 individuals (mean age: 63.1 years) with mild to moderately-severe hearing loss who: (a) did not currently use hearing aids; (b)
reported tinnitus that was sufficiently bothersome to warrant intervention; and (c) were suitable candidates for each of the study devices.Data Collection and Analysis:The primary outcome measure was the Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI). Secondary outcome measures included hearing-specific
questionnaires and the Quick Speech in Noise test (QuickSIN). The goal of the analysis was to evaluate efficacy of the EWHA and HA+SG devices versus the HA standard device.Results:There were 18 participants in each of the HA and EWHA groups and 19 in the HA+SG group. Gender, age, and
baseline TFI severity were balanced across treatment groups. Nearly all participants had a reduction in tinnitus symptoms during the study. The average TFI change (improvement) from baseline was 21 points in the HA group, 31 points in the EWHA group, and 33 points in the HA+SG group. A “clinically
significant” improvement in reaction to tinnitus (at least 13-point reduction in TFI score) was seen by 67% of HA, 82% of EWHA, and 79% of HA+SG participants. There were no statistically significant differences in the extent to which the devices reduced TFI scores. Likewise, the hearing-specific
questionnaires and QuickSIN showed improvements following use of the hearing aids but these improvements did not differ across device groups.Conclusions:There is insufficient evidence to conclude that any of these devices offers greater relief from tinnitus than any other one tested.
However, all devices appear to offer some improvement in the functional effects of tinnitus.
Scapular Fractures in Blunt Chest Trauma â€“ Self-Experience Study
Authors: Al-Sadek Tabet A. , Niklev Desislav , Al-Sadek Ahmed , Al-Sadek Lina
Published: November 2016

AIM: The aim of this retrospective study was to report the scapular fractures in patients with blunt chest trauma and to present the type and the frequency of associated thoracic injuries.MATERIAL AND METHODS: Nine patients with fractures of the scapula were included in the study. The mechanisms of the injury, the type of scapular fractures and associated thoracic injuries were analysed.RESULTS: Scapular fractures were caused by high-energy blunt chest trauma. The body of the scapula was fractured in all scapular fractures. In all cases, scapular fractures were associated with other thoracic injuries (average 3.25/per case). Rib fractures were present in eight patients, fractured clavicula - in four cases, the affection of pleural cavity - in eight of the patients and pulmonary contusion in all nine cases. Eight patients were discharged from the hospital up to the 15th day. One patient had died on the 3rd day because of postconcussional lung oedema.CONCLUSIONS:The study confirms the role of scapular fractures as a marker for the severity of the chest trauma (based on the number of associated thoracic injuries), but doesnâ€™t present scapular fractures as an indicator for high mortality in blunt chest trauma patients.Â
Improvement in Herpes Zoster Vaccination in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Sheth Heena , Moreland Larry , Peterson Hilary , Aggarwal Rohit
Published: November 2016

Objective.

To improve herpes zoster (HZ) vaccination rates in high-risk patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) being treated with immunosuppressive therapy.

Methods.

This quality improvement project was based on the pre- and post-intervention design. The project targeted all patients with RA over the age of 60 years while being treated with immunosuppressive therapy (not with biologics) seen in 13 rheumatology outpatient clinics. The study period was from July 2012 to June 2013 for the pre-intervention and February 2014 to January 2015 for the post-intervention phase. The electronic best practice alert (BPA) for HZ vaccination was developed; it appeared on electronic medical records during registration and medication reconciliation of the eligible patient by the medical assistant. The BPA was designed to electronically identify patient eligibility and to enable the physician to order the vaccine or to document refusal or deferral reason. Education regarding vaccine guidelines, BPA, vaccination process, and feedback were crucial components of the project interventions. The vaccination rates were compared using the chi-square test.

Results.

We evaluated 1823 and 1554 eligible patients with RA during the pre-intervention and post-intervention phases, respectively. The HZ vaccination rates, reported as patients vaccinated among all eligible patients, improved significantly from the pre-intervention period of 10.1% (184/1823) to 51.7% (804/1554) during the intervention phase (p < 0.0001). The documentation rates (vaccine received, vaccine ordered, patient refusal, and deferral reasons) increased from 28% (510/1823) to 72.9% (1133/1554; p < 0.0001). The HZ infection rates decreased significantly from 2% to 0.3% (p = 0.002).

Conclusion.

Electronic identification of vaccine eligibility and BPA significantly improved HZ vaccination rates. The process required minimal modification of clinic work flow and did not burden the physician’s time, and has the potential for self-sustainability and generalizability.
L’empathie dans le processus psychothérapique : agent, moyen ou condition ?
Authors: Georgieff Nicolas
Published: November 2016

Le terme empathie semble être compris par tous. Or ce concept est au carrefour de la recherche en neurosciences cognitives, de la psychologie du développement, de la clinique psychopathologique et de la pratique psychothérapique. Il a fait l’objet d’une renaissance dans les neurosciences et en psychopathologie, les deux intérêts se croisant avec des perspectives distinctes. Mécanisme de communication ou de partage interindividuel (de représentations, d’intentions, de pensées, d’émotions), il est une capacité de se mettre à la place de l’autre, dans sa subjectivité mais aussi dans son corps. Contrainte biologique, l’empathie est aussi inconsciente, obligatoire et mécanique, et ce sont ses effets qui nous sont accessibles. Après une reconstitution heuristique du concept, je propose un prolongement des réflexions psychanalytiques en définissant l’empathie comme un mécanisme actif au sein de deux interlocuteurs » ; elle permet par l’auto-empathie la connaissance de soi comme de l’autre ; elle est modulée jusqu’à la désempathie ; elle est le moteur de la transformation réciproque et donc de l’intersubjectivité. Ainsi, la psychopathologie serait un échec de cette transformation intersubjective de l’individu psychique avec l’autre, et la psychothérapie une relance de cette fonction.
Malencontreux : soigner le mal en clinique transculturelle
Authors: Zoldan Yann
Published: November 2016

Cet article relate une rencontre thérapeutique avec un patient qui se présente dans un premier temps comme victime pour ensuite se dévoiler bourreau. Dès lors c’est le début du malencontreux, de la mauvaise rencontre. Le mal prend alors place dans la rencontre thérapeutique. Nous aborderons cette question d’après l’Histoire des traumatismes historiques pour ensuite l’illustrer avec la clinique. Nous questionnerons, que fait-on du mal en psychothérapie, quelle réponse apporter ? De nombreuses questions pour soutenir une clinique transculturelle d’individus responsables.
Du contre-transfert aux contours de l’empathie : nécessité d’une éthique clinique
Authors: Huqueleux Véronique
Published: November 2016

Rebecca, jeune nigériane est accompagnée dans le cadre d’un dispositif d’accueil sécurisant pour les victimes de réseaux de prostitution, nous suivons son cheminement autour des questions du féminin et de la maternité, jusqu’à sa mise en accusation criminelle. A travers la biographie de son parcours psychothérapique de 2009 à 2015, nous explorons l’articulation des réactions contre-transférentielles et de l’empathie de la thérapeute pour elle. L’irruption fantasmatique face au réel induit des mouvements défensifs ainsi qu’un contre-transfert négatif qui viennent limiter les capacités empathiques. Ces mouvements renvoient au fonctionnement psychique de la patiente mais aussi à l’intime de la thérapeute et à des implicites culturels en elle où la morale vient parler du contre-transfert culturel. L’analyse de ces mouvements permettra un retour à une éthique clinique pour se départir d’un « romantisme de l’empathie » par la reconnaissance de son caractère ambivalent.
Intensive dairy farming systems from Holland and Brazil: SWOT analyse comparison
Authors: Passetti Rodrigo Augusto Cortêz , Eiras Carlos Emanuel , Gomes Ludmila Couto , Santos Junio Fabiano dos , Prado Ivanor Nunes do
Published: November 2016

Intensive systems of milk production in Brazil and Holland are compared by SWOT analysis. Twenty-one farms, 10 in Wageningen, central region of Holland, and 11 in Castro, central-eastern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil, were sampled. Data were retrieved from semi-structured interviews with the owners or people responsible for dairy activities, using a questionnaire guide and a digital recorder. After results were analysed, a table was elaborated representing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks for each country. Dairy farms in Holland were uniform, or rather, small and medium-sized farms with high production. It has also been observed that Dutch farms have several problems due to high intensification, for example, hoof diseases with great economic loss. In the case of Brazilian dairy farms, several types of systems and degrees were detected. Brazilian production in the region analysed features a higher quantity than that in Holland, with less intensity when compared to that on Dutch farms.
Digestible lysine for broilers from different commercial strains in the final phase
Authors: Dalólio Felipe Santos , Moreira Joerley , Vaz Diego Pereira , Albino Luiz Fernando Teixeira , Nunes Ricardo Vianna , Dessimoni Gabriel Villela
Published: November 2016

This study aimed to evaluate different digestible lysine levels in diets for broilers chickens from different commercial strains, from 49 to 56 days of age, on performance and carcass characteristics. A total of 432 male broilers from 49 days old were used, with an average weight of 3560±250 g. It was used a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement 3x4, and the birds, from three strains (Cobb 500, Hubbard Flex and Ross 308) were divided into four levels of digestible lysine (0.800, 0.950, 1.100 and 1.250%), with four replicates of 12 birds each. It was evaluated the weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, carcass yield, breast yield, breast meat yield and the yield of the thigh and drumstick. There was no interaction between lysine levels and commercial strains of broiler chickens. The different lysine levels did not influence (p ≥ 0.05) performance and carcass yield. There are significant differences between strains for feed intake and carcass characteristics. The Cobb 500 strain had higher breast yield and breast meat (p < 0.05), while the Hubbard Flex and Ross 308 strains had higher yield of the thigh and drumstick (p < 0.05).
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) in diets for laying hens on performance, egg quality and blood biochemical parameters
Authors: Melo Ramon Duque , Cruz Frank George Guimarães , Feijó Julmar Da Costa , Rufino João Paulo Ferreira , Melo Lucas Duque , Damasceno Jessica Lima
Published: November 2016

The objective of this study was to evaluate the increasing levels (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6%) of black pepper in diets for laying hens on performance, egg quality and blood biochemical parameters. Hissex White hens (n=168) at 30 weeks of age were used. The experimental method was completely randomized with seven treatments with four replicates of six birds each. Estimates of black pepper levels were determined by polynomial regression. The performance showed no significant differences (p > 0.05). The eggshell percentage was significantly influenced (p < 0.05), in which the level of 0.30% inclusion impaired eggshell quality. Triglycerides level increased significantly (p < 0.05), according to increasing levels of black pepper in the diet. It can be concluded that black pepper can be used in diets for laying hens as phytogenic additive without harming the performance. However, this inclusion causes a reduction in eggshell percentage and an increase in the level of triglycerides in the bloodstream.
Feeding behavior of F1 Holstein x Zebu lactating cows fed increasing levels of banana peel
Authors: Pimentel Paulo Roberto Silveira , Rocha Júnior Vicente Ribeiro , Melo Marco Túlio Parrela de , Ramos Joyce Cipriana Pacheco , Cardoso Lucas Gabriel , Silva Jéssica Jordane Pereira
Published: November 2016

This study evaluated the feeding behavior of F1 Holstein x Zebu cows fed increasing levels of banana peel. Diets contained 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60% replacement of sorghum silage with banana peel. The experimental design was two 5x5 Latin squares. Cows were subjected to visual observation after adaptation of each trial period. The times spent in feeding (4.13 to 5.58 hours day-1) and in idle (10 to 12.53 hours day-1) presented quadratic effect. The time spent ruminating, number and duration of rumination periods, chews per cud, and numbers of cuds per day were not affected by treatments. The total chewing time showed a quadratic effect, with peak at 18.58% replacement. The banana peel levels did not affect consumption, rumination and chewing neutral detergent fiber. Intake, rumination and chewing of dry matter showed a decreasing linear effect. The replacement of sorghum silage with banana peel up to 60% in the diet for lactating cows reduces the time spent in feeding and improves feeding and rumination efficiencies of dry matter, keeping the milk production of cows.
Five Layered FCC Ferromagnetic Films as Described by Modified Second Order Perturbed Heisenberg Hamiltonian
Authors: Samarasekara P. , Warnakulasooriya B. I.
Published: November 2016

For the first time, the 2nd order perturbed Heisenberg Hamiltonian with all the seven magnetic energy parameters was solved for fcc structured ferromagnetic films with five layers. Previously, the 2nd order perturbed Heisenberg Hamiltonian was solved for four layered ferromagnetic films under some special assumptions by us. However, the exact solution of 2nd order perturbed Heisenberg Hamiltonian without any special assumption is formulated in this manuscript. The magnetic easy and hard directions were determined using the angles corresponding to the energy minimum and maximum in the 3-D and 2-D plots. The shape of the 3-D plots doesn’t change with the number of layers except the position of spikes. However, the magnetic easy direction varies with the number of layers. Most of the theoretical data obtained by our model agree with the experimental data of ferromagnetic thin films.
Influence of working capital metrics on profitability: a critical examination on Indian manufacturing sector
Authors: Aravind M.
Published: November 2016

The disbursement of working capital is usually considered as a short term cash flow and it is totally neglected by the policy makers to tag with profitability of a concern. Usually the variation in working capital will be observed at the end of the financial year. Such observations will be just a postmortem of financial events happened. Various metrics like Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC), Net Trade Cycle etc directly or indirectly controlling profitability of business. This work investigates how various working capital metrics influencing profitability of the firms by observing a data set of 100 manufacturing companies in India. This study comprehends ten year financial data from the FY 2005-06 to the FY 2014-15. All together a balanced panel set of 1000 firm-year observations form part of this research. The data analysis was carried out using both descriptive and inferential statistical measures. The results show that CCC is positively correlated to Net profit Ratio (NPR) but negatively related to the Return on Equity (ROE). Another major fact identified that the Indian manufacturing firms are having a high DPO (Days Payable Outstanding) while maintaining a moderate DSO (Days Sales Outstanding) and DIO (Days Inventory Outstanding). This situation spots towards the fact that the manufacturing firms are enjoying liberal credit policy from their suppliers. The study also looks into the impact of working capital on profitability at distinct economic phases. The result concludes that the influence of working capital on profitability was consistent irrespective of the economic cycle.
Non-philosophical Christ-poetics beyond the mystical turn in conversation with continental philosophy of religion
Authors: Meylahn Johann-Albrecht
Published: November 2016

The religious turn in continental philosophy has opened the door for postmetaphysical mystical theology. Postmetaphysical mystical theology seeks to understand the non-relation relation of language (text) to the Other. Yet, this non-relation relation to the Other, who is every other, can also be interpreted differently to the mystical understanding. For example, Žižek argues that the Other, which is often experienced as the uncanny, the unpredictable and the contingent (lived spirituality), is not necessarily the result of some mystical unknowable Otherness but is a consequence of the way the subject’s own activity is inscribed into reality. These experiences of lived spirituality or experiences of Otherness can, rather than being interpreted as an in-breaking of the mystical Other, be interpreted otherwise, as a grammatological consequence of the inability and impossibility of language (Lacan). Therefore, in this article, Žižek’s thoughts function as a bridge to bring this mystical turn back into critical conversation with continental philosophy and particularly with the thoughts of Derrida, Laruelle and Stiegler. The contemporary mystical turn in theology rediscovers something of this non-religious religion. Derrida’s thoughts are in close proximity to negative theology and yet there is an important difference. This difference will be explored and further developed towards Laruelle’s non-philosophy, which does not translate into a non-religion religion or postmetaphysical metaphysics but remains a non-philosophy or maybe a science of Christ. This article will conclude with a tentative exploration of a postmetaphysical Christ-poetics beyond the mystical turn.
Polyarteritis nodosa presenting as peripheral vascular disease and acute limb ischemia
Authors: Shukla A , Aggarwal A
Published: November 2016

Acute limb ischemia and peripheral vascular disease (PVD) are unusual presentations of polyarteritis nodosa (PAN). Here, we present a case with PVD of both lower limbs leading to foot claudication. Digital subtraction angiography showed narrowing, irregularity, and occlusion of both lower limb arteries with no involvement of the abdomen visceral arteries. Based on significant weight loss, diastolic blood pressure >90 mmHg, myalgia, testicular pain, and angiographic abnormalities in medium-sized arteries, he was diagnosed as having PAN. He was treated with corticosteroid and bolus intravenous cyclophosphamide following which he had prompt and near-complete recovery of the symptoms without any tissue loss.
Ischemic monomelic neuropathy
Authors: Sheetal S , Byju P , Manoj P
Published: November 2016

Ischemic monomelic neuropathy is an uncommon complication associated with the creation of arteriovenous (AV) fistula for hemodialysis. After placement of an arteriovenous fistula, there can be shunting of arterial blood away from the distal extremity resulting in damage to distal nerve fibers with acute neurologic symptoms. It can present with global muscle pain, weakness, and a warm hand with palpable pulses starting within the 1st h after the creation of the AV fistula. It is a devastating complication and can result in permanent disability. We hereby report two cases of ischemic monomelic neuropathy associated with the creation of a brachiocephalic AV fistula for hemodialysis access.
Imatinib-induced pleural effusion
Authors: Banka R , Udwadia Z
Published: November 2016

Imatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor and has rarely been reported to cause pleural effusion. We report the case of an 88-year-old male, known case of gastrointestinal stromal tumor on treatment with imatinib, who presented with a 2-week history of cough and dyspnea. He was diagnosed to have a right-sided pleural effusion and thoracentesis of the fluid revealed an exudate with low adenosine deaminase and negative cytology. Withdrawal of the drug lead to resolution of symptoms. We report this case to highlight the side effect profile of imatinib and warn physicians regarding this potential adverse effect which may be mistaken for metastasis or infection.
Cloud photogrammetry with dense stereo for fisheye cameras
Authors: Beekmans Christoph , Schneider Johannes , Läbe Thomas , Lennefer Martin , Stachniss Cyrill , Simmer Clemens
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We present a novel approach for dense 3-D cloud reconstruction above an area of 10 × 10 km2 using two hemispheric sky imagers with fisheye lenses in a stereo setup. We examine an epipolar rectification model designed for fisheye cameras, which allows the use of efficient out-of-the-box dense matching algorithms designed for classical pinhole-type cameras to search for correspondence information at every pixel. The resulting dense point cloud allows to recover a detailed and more complete cloud morphology compared to previous approaches that employed sparse feature-based stereo or assumed geometric constraints on the cloud field. Our approach is very efficient and can be fully automated. From the obtained 3-D shapes, cloud dynamics, size, motion, type and spacing can be derived, and used for radiation closure under cloudy conditions, for example. Fisheye lenses follow a different projection function than classical pinhole-type cameras and provide a large field of view with a single image. However, the computation of dense 3-D information is more complicated and standard implementations for dense 3-D stereo reconstruction cannot be easily applied. Together with an appropriate camera calibration, which includes internal camera geometry, global position and orientation of the stereo camera pair, we use the correspondence information from the stereo matching for dense 3-D stereo reconstruction of clouds located around the cameras. We implement and evaluate the proposed approach using real world data and present two case studies. In the first case, we validate the quality and accuracy of the method by comparing the stereo reconstruction of a stratocumulus layer with reflectivity observations measured by a cloud radar and the cloud-base height estimated from a Lidar-ceilometer. The second case analyzes a rapid cumulus evolution in the presence of strong wind shear.
Electrodynamic influence on the diurnal behaviour of neutral daytime airglow emissions
Authors: Karan Deepak K. , Pallamraju Duggirala , Phadke Kedar A. , Vijayalakshmi Tatiparti , Pant Tarun K. , Mukherjee Shyamoli
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The diurnal variations in daytime airglow emission intensity measurements at three wavelengths OI 777.4 nm, OI 630.0 nm, and OI 557.7 nm made from a low-latitude location, Hyderabad (17.5° N, 78.4° E; 8.9° N MLAT) in India have been investigated. The intensity patterns showed both symmetric and asymmetric behaviour in their respective diurnal emission variability with respect to local noon. The asymmetric diurnal behaviour is not expected considering the photochemical nature of the production mechanisms. The reason for this observed asymmetric diurnal behaviour has been found to be predominantly the temporal variation in the equatorial electrodynamics. The plasma that is transported across latitudes due to the action of varying electric field strengths over the magnetic equator in the daytime contributes to the asymmetric diurnal behaviour in the neutral daytime airglow emissions. Independent magnetic and radio measurements support this finding. It is also noted that this asymmetric diurnal behaviour in the neutral emission intensities has a solar cycle dependence with a greater number of days during high solar activity period showing asymmetric diurnal behaviour compared to those during a low solar activity epoch. These intensity variations over a long timescale demonstrate that the daytime neutral optical emissions are extremely sensitive to the changes in the eastward electric field over low and equatorial latitudes.
An intercomparison of Large-Eddy Simulations of the Martian daytime convective boundary layer
Authors: Bertrand Tanguy , Spiga Aymeric , Rafkin Scot , Colaitis Arnaud , Forget François , Millour Ehouarn
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Large-Eddy Simulations (LES) for Mars resolve the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) turbulent dynamics by using a very fine horizontal resolution of a few tens of meters. LES modeling is becoming a more and more useful tool to prepare the robotic exploration of Mars by providing means to evaluate the intensity of convective plumes and vortices, horizontal wind gustiness, and turbulent fluctuations of temperature in the Martian PBL. In such context, and given the relative paucity of turbulence-related measurements on Mars, an intercomparison of LES models is a fruitful way to evaluate the models' predictions and to indicate possible areas of improvement. Thus, to prepare the landing of the ExoMars Schiaparelli lander (also named ExoMars Demonstrator Module, EDM), scheduled for October 2016, the results of the Laboratoire de Météorologie Dynamique (LMD) and South-West Research Institute (SwRI) LES models have been compared. The objective of this study is to determine the range of uncertainties, and dispersions, of the two numerical models' predictions, for the critical phase of the spacecraft's descent in the Martian daytime turbulent PBL. First, a strategy is defined to ensure similar radiative forcing in both the LMD and SwRI models. Then, LES are performed over a flat terrain with and without large-scale ambient horizontal wind. The LMD and SwRI Martian LES models predict similar temporal evolution of the PBL and organization in the horizontal and vertical wind fields. However, the convective motions in the daytime PBL are more vigorous by a factor 1.5–2 in SwRI results than in LMD results, independently of the presence or not of ambient horizontal wind. This discrepancy is further investigated through sensitivity studies to surface conditions, ambient wind, and airborne dust loading.
A multi-level canopy radiative transfer scheme for ORCHIDEE
(SVN r2566), based on a domain-averaged structure factor
Authors: McGrath Matthew J. , Ryder James , Pinty Bernard , Otto Juliane , Naudts Kim , Valade Aude , Chen Yiying , Weedon James , Luyssaert Sebastiaan
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In order to better simulate heat fluxes over multilayer ecosystems, in particular tropical forests and savannahs, the next generation of Earth system models will likely include vertically-resolved vegetation structure and multi-level energy budgets. We present here a multi-level radiation transfer scheme which is capable of being used in conjunction with such methods. It is based on a previously established scheme which encapsulates the three dimensional nature of canopies, through the use of a domain-averaged structure factor, referred to here as the effective leaf area index. The fluxes are tracked throughout the canopy in an iterative fashion until they escape into the atmosphere or are absorbed by the canopy or soil; this approach explicitly includes multiple scattering between the canopy layers. A series of tests show that the results from the two-layer case are in acceptable agreement with those from the single layer, although the computational cost is necessarily increased due to the iterations. The ten-layer case is less precise, but still provides results to within an acceptable range. This new approach allows for the calculation of radiation transfer in vertically resolved vegetation canopies simulated in global circulation models.
Simulating ice layer formation under the presence of preferential flow in layered snowpacks
Authors: Wever Nander , Würzer Sebastian , Fierz Charles , Lehning Michael
Published: November 2016

Abstract. For physics-based snow cover models, simulating the formation of dense ice layers inside the snowpack has been a long-time challenge. Their formation is considered to be tightly coupled to the presence of preferential flow, which is assumed to happen through flow fingering. Recent laboratory experiments and modelling techniques of liquid water flow in snow have advanced the understanding of conditions under which preferential flow paths or flow fingers form. We propose a modelling approach in the one-dimensional, multilayer snow cover model SNOWPACK for preferential flow that is based on a dual domain approach. The pore space is divided into a part that represents matrix flow and a part that represents preferential flow. Richards' equation is then solved for both domains and only water in matrix flow is subjected to phase changes. We found that preferential flow paths arriving at a layer transition in the snowpack may lead to ponding conditions, which we used to trigger a water flow from the preferential flow domain to the matrix domain. Subsequent refreezing then can form dense layers in the snowpack that regularly exceed 700 kg m−3. A comparison of simulated density profiles with biweekly snow profiles made at the Weissfluhjoch measurement site at 2536 m altitude in the Eastern Swiss Alps for 16 snow seasons showed that several ice layers that were observed in the field could be reproduced. However, many profiles remain challenging to simulate. The prediction of the early snowpack runoff also improved under the consideration of preferential flow. Our study suggests that a dual domain approach is able to describe the net effect of preferential flow on ice layer formation and liquid water flow in snow in one-dimensional, detailed, physics-based snowpack models, without the need for a full multidimensional model.
Escrituras del exilio. El problema de la escritura en José Ortega y Gasset, María Zambrano y José Bergamín
Authors: Hidalgo Nácher Max
Published: November 2016

El presente artículo estudia las singularidades de la obra de José Bergamín y de María Zambrano y, en particular, el modo específico en que entienden el acto de escritura y despliegan la relación con el lector. La comunidad entre el lenguaje, el sujeto y sus contemporáneos, y el papel que en su trabazón cumple la escritura, son aspectos centrales para articular la obra de ambos autores como respuesta a un problema común. En ese sentido, sus posiciones de enunciación –que serán comparadas con la de Ortega y Gasset– serán estudiadas en relación a un problema de escritura abierto en la modernidad y, más en concreto, a la situación política y social de los años treinta y a su posterior experiencia del exilio
El ejemplar perdido del Arte de putear de Moratín (c. 1815-1820): nuevos datos ecdóticos y bibliográficos
Authors: Piquero Rodríguez Álvaro
Published: November 2016

La donación a la Biblioteca Nacional de España de un ejemplar perdido del Arte de putear de Nicolás Fernández de Moratín (1737-1780) ha abierto nuevas e interesantes perspectivas de estudio para la crítica. El presente trabajo pretende, por un lado, recuperar la historia que se escondía detrás de esta editio princeps, publicada clandestinamente a principios del siglo XIX; y por otro, exponer los problemas críticos —adiciones, supresiones, contaminaciones y sustituciones— que muestra el poema a la luz de su cotejo con los restantes testimonios conservados
Do Perceptions About Local Environmental Quality Influence Self-Rated Health? Evidence from Ghana
Authors: Sulemana Iddisah
Published: November 2016

Although climate change and other global environmental problems are of top priority among world leaders (especially for those of developed countries), local environmental problems continue to bedevil people in developing countries like Ghana. In these countries, people continue to battle with poor air quality, poor water quality and poor sewage and sanitation. In this paper, I examine the association between perceived local environmental quality and self-rated health among Ghanaians.  Empirical results from ordered probit regressions, based on data from the Wave 5 of the World Values Survey, reveal a negative association between environmental quality measure and self-rated health.
Perceptions of 8th Grade Students in Middle School towards Citizenship Values
Authors: Arslan Seyfettin
Published: November 2016

The principal aim of this study is to highlight how students in 8th grade of middle school perceive the principal concepts present in Citizenship Education (lessons), namely the values of: citizenship, (personal) rights, responsibility, the state, the law, military service, the right to education, the right to vote and participate in the political process, equality and freedom. The study was conducted using a phenomenological reseacrh model/design which is a type of qualitative research method. The participants in the study comprised of students receiving education at middle school level. While the sample group consisted of a total of 6 students, 3 of which were female and 3 of which were male selected using a purposeful sampling method. As a data collection tool, a partially-completed interview form was used prepared in accordance with the aims of the study. The data obtained from these interviews with the participants were then analyzed and interpreted following the steps prescribed in the phenomenological design model. On examining the results of the study, it was observed that both male and female students held similar views with regard to concepts of citienship which corresponded to various perspectives formed in accordance with their own semantic worlds/interpretations of meaning. Their general perceptions towards the key concepts, were seen to correspond to the learning objectives that the school aimed/intended to teach.
Contributions of Tourism to Community Development
Authors: O Mbagwu, Felicia. , Deku Bessong, Columbus. , O Anozie, Okechukwu.
Published: November 2016

This study focused on contributions of tourism to community development in Cross River State, Nigeria. Two research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted descriptive survey research design. The population used for the study was 357 respondents comprising, 101 community leaders and 256 tourism staff. A 21-item questionnaire and focus group discussion guide were used to elicit information from respondents and discussants. The questionnaire was analyzed using mean and standard deviation, t-test statistics was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance and the FGD was analyzed qualitatively. Findings from the study revealed among others, that tourism attracted banking institutions and communication industries; thus contributed to a high extent in economic development and very high extent in social development of Cross River State, Nigeria. Some recommendation was made based on the research findings.