bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rabyam’s Principles of Faith: A Pan-Denominational, and Postmodern Jewish Theology
Authors: Goldberg Aviva
Published: August 2014

This paper offers a contemporary pan-denominational and postmodern Jewish theology. It utilizes the tools of Jewish theological scholarship within a uniquely midrashic format. This format of creative narrative text and scholarly commentary grounds these theological principles within the recognizable stylized system of traditional Jewish exegesis. Rabyam’s theology and the accompanying integral commentary reflect and elucidate feminist, postmodern theological concerns and attitudes. It is my contention that this unique theology is a vital contribution to an inclusive twenty-first century understanding of the Divine. Though the principles of faith alone speak to a general audience, when combined with the annotated commentary, they fill a gap in current scholarship and contribute to a more holistic understanding of a post-modern Judaism not confined to a particular denomination or particular ethos. These principles reflect a Jewish world that is ‘fragmentary, contradictory and turbulent’, as theologian Emile Fackenheim argued (Fackenheim as cited in Goldy, 1990: 70).
Fabrication and characterization of vibration-driven AlN piezoelectric micropower generator compatible with complementary metal-oxide semiconductor process
Authors: Chung Gwiy-Sang , Lee Byung-Chul
Published: August 2014

This article describes the aluminum nitride (AlN)-based piezoelectric microgenerator for scavenging energy from ambient vibration. To achieve the low resonance frequency and maximize power density, a parametric study has been carried out by analytical modeling and finite element analysis. The piezoelectric microgenerator consists of AlN piezoelectric thin film with molybdenum (Mo) electrodes and silicon (Si) proof mass. The AlN was deposited on silicon-on-insulator wafer which is used as an insulating layer to defend the leakage current. The Mo electrode provides the excellent c-axis crystal growth of AlN. The fabricated AlN piezoelectric microgenerator can generate up to 6.4 nW at a frequency of 389 Hz and acceleration of 1.0 g (1 g = 9.81 m/s2). In addition, the output voltage and power density are 22.6 mVrms and 11.3 nW/mm3, respectively. The proposed generator is highly suitable for batch processing and has the possibility of harvesting energy from the ambient vibration.
Material strength consideration in the design optimization of nonlinear energy harvester
Authors: Upadrashta Deepesh , Yang Yaowen , Tang Lihua
Published: August 2014

Cantilever-based piezoelectric energy harvesting from ambient vibrations is a viable solution for powering wireless sensors and low-power electronic devices. For realization of such technology, it is imperative to design the energy harvester with higher power output and wider operating bandwidth. The main practical constraints on the design of harvester are system mass, volume, and strength of the material. In pursuit of better performance, material strength has yet been considered in designing nonlinear energy harvesters in the literature. This article focuses on the design optimization of nonlinear energy harvester with magnetic oscillator within the limits of allowable strain on piezoelectric material. Parametric study is carried out to find the optimal configuration of nonlinear energy harvester. Experiments show that compared to the linear configuration, the optimized nonlinear energy harvester achieves higher power output and wider bandwidth with maximum strain on piezoelectric material below the allowable limit.
Recovering Materiality in Institutional Work
Authors: Monteiro Pedro , Nicolini Davide
Published: August 2014

In this article we utilize a (posthumanist) practice theory orientation to foreground the neglected role of material elements (e.g., objects and spaces) in institutional work. The paper builds on the results of an empirical study of two prizes in the Italian public sector for best practices in public administration and healthcare respectively. Our discussion centres on the critical role played by materiality in the legitimizing work performed by the two prizes. More specifically, we show that humans and material elements share the institutional work of mimicry, theorizing, educating, and reconfiguring normative networks. The article expands and enriches the notion of institutional work by foregrounding its inherent heterogeneous nature. It also shows the capacity of post-humanist and practice oriented approaches to shed new light on fundamental questions regarding the nature of situated action and distributed effort in institutional analysis.
Why Women Say No to Corporate Boards and What Can Be Done
Authors: Rowley Chris , Lee Jean S. K. , Lan Luh Luh
Published: August 2014

Research indicates many women prefer being self-employed and entrepreneurs, creating value based on their personal beliefs, rather than sitting on boards as “Ornamental Directors”. Furthermore, the road to corporate boards for women has been long, tortuous, and bumpy, but needlessly so. Several theoretical explanations have been suggested for this situation, often with overlap and similarities. However, we believe that in other barriers are due to poor ‘signaling’ of success for female directors and structural issues. The messaging comes in the form of networks and nomination process bias, role model and mentor shortages, work–family balance, legal ambiguity, policies, and cognitive behavior. This leads to what we call the “Ornamental Director” syndrome.
An Exploratory Study of Sex and Rape Behind Bars in a South African Prison
Authors: Booyens Karen , Bezuidenhout Christiaan
Published: August 2014

This study explores male inmates’ perceptions of sex and rape in a South African correctional center (prison). In South Africa, consensual sex between inmates is prohibited by the Department of Correctional Services and inmates are therefore reluctant to report on such activities. Furthermore, the prison code of silence and the shame from being the victim of a prison rape make this an exceptionally challenging topic to research. Despite these challenges, 100 face-to-face interviews were conducted with male inmates (children, juveniles, and adults) who were either awaiting trial or already sentenced for a criminal offence. The main focus was on their general viewpoints of consensual sex between men and prison rape victimization. This study was an exploratory study and because of the size of the sample this study cannot be generalized. It does, however, offer valuable insight into the prison subculture’s unwritten rules about sex and rape.
Malaysia Parent Ratings of the Parent–Parental Acceptance–Rejection Questionnaire
Authors: Gomez Rapson , Suhaimi Aida Farhana
Published: August 2014

This study used multiple-group confirmatory factor analysis procedure to examine the measurement and structural invariance across Malaysian Malay ( n = 724), Chinese ( n = 372), and Indian ( n = 259) parent ratings of their children on the short version of the Parent–Parental Acceptance–Rejection Questionnaire (Parent-PARQ/S). The Parent-PARQ/S measures parents’ perceptions of their rejection of their children and has scales for coldness/lack of affection, hostility/aggression, indifference/neglect, and undifferentiated rejection. Results provided strong support for the measurement and structural invariance of the Parent-PARQ/S. In addition, the three ethnic groups did not differ for all four latent mean scores.
Smart damping of fuzzy fiber reinforced composite plates using 1--3 piezoelectric composites
Authors: Kundalwal Shailesh I , Ray Manas Chandra
Published: August 2014

This article is concerned with the investigation of active constrained layer damping (ACLD) of smart laminated fuzzy fiber reinforced composite (FFRC) plates. The distinctive feature of the construction of this novel FFRC is that the uniformly spaced short carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are radially grown on the circumferential surfaces of carbon fibers. The effect of CNT waviness on the damping characteristics of the laminated FFRC plates is investigated when wavy CNTs are coplanar with either of the two mutually orthogonal planes. The constraining layer of the ACLD treatment is made of vertically/obliquely reinforced 1–3 piezoelectric composite material. A finite element model is developed for the laminated FFRC plates integrated with the patches of ACLD treatment. The effects of different boundary conditions of the FFRC plates and orientation angle of piezoelectric fibers on the damping characteristics of the laminated FFRC plates have also been investigated. Results reveal that if the plane of radially grown wavy CNTs on the circumferential surface of carbon fiber is coplanar with the plane of carbon fiber axis then the attenuation of amplitude of vibrations and the natural frequencies of the laminated FFRC plates are significantly improved over those of the FFRC containing straight CNTs or wavy CNTs being coplanar with the transverse plane of carbon fiber.
Degree of controllability for linear unstable systems
Authors: Lee Haemin , Park Youngjin
Published: August 2014

The degree of controllability is a measure to check how controllable a given system is, which makes up for the weak points of traditional methods for checking controllability. There are many definitions of the degree of controllability, and the most widely used measure is represented by controllability Gramian. This measure has physical meaning of minimum input energy to change the states. However, it is hard to use this method for unstable systems because the steady-state value of Gramian cannot be defined. Therefore, the degree of controllability for unstable systems is proposed in this paper. The definition of the measure is minimum control input energy to change the state from an arbitrary initial condition to an arbitrary final condition. The derivation result shows that the measure is the sum of two terms, one represented by Gramian of a stable subsystem and the other represented by Gramian of a subsystem that has mirror image poles of an anti-stable subsystem. These Gramians can be obtained by solving two Lyapunov equations. A simple numerical example shows the usefulness of the proposed measure of degree of controllability.
Nonlinear free vibration of functionally graded doubly curved shear deformable panels using finite element method
Authors: Kar Vishesh R , Panda Subrata K
Published: August 2014

Nonlinear free vibration responses of functionally graded single/doubly curved shell panels are computed based on higher order shear deformation theory and Green-Lagrange type nonlinearity. The material properties of functionally graded materials are obtained based on the Voigt model in conjunction with power-law distribution for a smooth variation of material along with the thickness coordinate. The governing equation of the vibrated curved panel has been obtained using Hamilton’s principle. The model has been discretized using a nine node quadrilateral Lagrangian shell element and solved numerically using a direct iterative method. The convergence and comparison behavior of the nonlinear model has been checked by comparing the responses with the published literature. The influence of the power-law index, curvature ratio, thickness ratio, aspect ratio, amplitude ratio and support conditions on the nonlinear responses of cylindrical, elliptical and hyperbolic shell panels are discussed.
Damage detection by modal curvatures: numerical issues
Authors: Quaranta Giuseppe , Carboni Biagio , Lacarbonara Walter
Published: August 2014

This work is concerned with modal curvature-based damage detection in slender beam-like structures, whereby the modal curvatures are computed by numerical differentiation of noisy mode shapes sampled at a finite number of measurement points. Within this framework, most common techniques greatly amplify the measurement errors and their application leads to unreliable outcomes, especially when a large set of measurement points is considered. Preliminary signal processing, even if beneficial for reducing the noise level, does not solve the problem in that neither the detection of damaged zones nor the reduction of false alarms exhibit significant improvements. In a comparative fashion, we herein demonstrate that a modified Savitzky–Golay filter and the cubic smoothing spline method can provide a more affordable way for detecting damages when using numerically obtained modal curvatures. In doing so, the robustness against the measurement errors and the role of the adopted formulation for the modal curvature-based damage index are considered. A simple statistical procedure that can further improve the detection of damaged regions together with the identification of possible false positives is also presented.
Theoretical and experimental study of transient sound field reconstruction in semi-free field
Authors: Pan Si-Wei , Zhang Hai-Bin , Jiang Wei-Kang
Published: August 2014

The interpolated time-domain equivalent source method (ITDESM) is based on the assumption of a free field, which might not be suitable for the direct application to a semi-free field. Here, an extended ITDESM procedure is proposed to reconstruct the semi-free transient sound field directly in the time domain. In this method, the time-domain equivalent sources are placed not only near the actual sound source, but also near its image source. It is assumed that the number of the equivalent sources distributed around the image source (virtual equivalent sources) is identical to that distributed around the actual source (actual equivalent sources), and their locations are mirror-symmetric with the symmetry plane being the reflecting surface. The acoustic contribution from each virtual equivalent source is further formulated with the strengths of the corresponding actual equivalent source to save the computational cost. Reconstruction of the semi-free transient sound fields from three monopoles is contrastively studied by numerical simulations to demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method. This method is also examined by adding noise and measurement point offsets into the reconstruction process, respectively. An experiment with a loudspeaker is conducted in a semi-anechoic chamber, and the results show the validity and applicability of the proposed method.
An Exploration of Protective Factors Supporting Desistance From Sexual Offending
Authors: de Vries Robbé Michiel , Mann Ruth E. , Maruna Shadd , Thornton David
Published: August 2014

This article considers factors that support or assist desistance from sexual offending in those who have previously offended. Current risk assessment tools for sexual offending focus almost exclusively on assessing factors that raise the risk for offending. The aim of this study was to review the available literature on protective factors supporting desistance from sexual offending. This article discusses the potential value of incorporating protective factors into the assessment process, and examines the literature on this topic to propose a list of eight potential protective domains for sexual offending. The inclusion of notions of desistance and strengths may provide additional guidance to the assessment and treatment of those who sexually offend. Further research investigations are recommended to consolidate the preliminary conclusions from this study regarding the nature and influence of protective factors in enabling individuals to desist from further offending.
Anxious Attachment, Social Isolation, and Indicators of Sex Drive and Compulsivity
Authors: Miner Michael H. , Swinburne Romine Rebecca , Robinson Beatrice “Bean” E. , Berg Dianne , Knight Raymond A.
Published: August 2014

It has been suggested that child sexual abuse is related to poor attachment to parents, which is associated with an inability to form intimate relationships. Seto and Lalumière indicated that there were too few studies of adolescent males to determine whether poor attachment was associated with perpetration. This study was designed to follow up on a previous study and further explored the association between insecure attachment to parents, social isolation, and interpersonal adequacy to child sexual abuse perpetration in adolescents. We compared two samples of adolescent males who had committed sexual offenses, those who committed offenses against children ( n = 140) and those who committed offenses against peer or adults ( n = 92), with a sample of similarly aged males in treatment for mental health or substance use issues ( n = 93). Data were collected using a semi-structured interview and computer-administered questionnaire. We found an indirect association between anxious attachment and sexual offenses against child victims, which was accounted for by measures of social involvement and social isolation. These involvement and isolation measures also did not have a direct association with sexual offenses against child victims, in that their contribution was accounted for by a measure of Masculine Adequacy. This Masculine Adequacy, combined with decreased levels of Sexual Preoccupation and Hypersexuality and increased Sexual Compulsivity, was associated with commission of child sexual abuse. The interpersonal variables did not enter a model predicting sexual offending against peers/adults, which seemed solely associated with the interaction between Sexual Compulsivity and Hypersexuality.
Dynamic duos: On partnership and the possibilities of postcolonial ethnography
Authors: Middleton Townsend , Pradhan Eklavya
Published: August 2014

This article brings anthropologist and research assistant into mutually reflective critique of one another, the researcher–assistant dynamic, and the challenges of fieldwork in contemporary India. The authors have worked together in the politically charged, ethnologically saturated context of ‘tribal’ Darjeeling since 2006. To realize the potential of their partnership, Middleton and Pradhan were forced to come to creative terms with the problematic legacy of anthropology in South Asia. Working with – and ultimately through – the colonialities at hand, they have pursued a ‘postcolonial ethnography’ replete with new objects of analysis, new modes of study, and new forms of ethnographic connectivity. Asking what made them work as a dynamic duo and what ethnographic possibilities exist in the postcolonial era, ethnographer and assistant here come together to reflect upon and reproduce the dialogics of ethnographic practice, so as to explore the characters, conditions, and im/possibilities of contemporary ethnography – postcolonial and otherwise.
Shared knowledges: Family, fusion, friction, fabric
Authors: Gold Ann Grodzins , Gujar Bhoju Ram , Gujar Madhu , Gujar Chinu
Published: August 2014

Ann Grodzins Gold, the senior author, has collaborated for over 30 years with Bhoju Ram Gujar, the first co-author, a village-born government civil servant. While Ann and Bhoju have previously published their thoughts on the joint production of ethnographic knowledge, their understandings continue to evolve and change over time. During Ann’s most recent fieldwork spell (2010–11) in the provincial town of Jahazpur, present home to Bhoju and his family, Bhoju’s daughters, Madhu and Chinu, also assisted in conducting interviews. In this article, the four of us reflect on our aims, methods, findings and relationships. We draw from our particular experiences of collaborative fieldwork to discuss forged familial bonds, moments of intellectual fusion, counterpoints of friction, and the resulting woven fabric of our writing.
The insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme and susceptibility to schizophrenia or Parkinson’s disease: A meta-analysis
Authors: Song Gwan Gyu , Lee Young Ho
Published: August 2014

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the insertion (I) and deletion (D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) confers susceptibility to schizophrenia and Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Materials and methods:

A meta-analysis was performed of the associations between the ACE I/D polymorphism and schizophrenia and PD.

Results:

Thirteen studies with 2024 cases and 2230 controls comprising eight studies on schizophrenia and five on PD were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed no association between the ACE D allele and schizophrenia (OR = 0.990, 95% CI = 0.889–1.102, p = 0.856) or PD (OR = 1.067, 95% CI = 0.907–1.255, p = 0.433). Stratification by ethnicity indicated no association between the ACE D allele and schizophrenia in European, Asian, or Turkish ethnic groups (OR = 0.896, 95% CI = 0.566–1.419, p = 0.640; OR = 1.057, 95% CI = 0.903–1.238, p = 0.492; OR = 1.111, 95% CI = 0.889–1.389, p = 0.354, respectively). Ethnicity-specific meta-analysis was not conducted for PD because only one ethnic PD study was available.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis found no association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and schizophrenia or PD.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion gene polymorphisms is associated with risk of glioma in a Chinese population
Authors: Lian MinXue , Jiang HaiTao , Wang Hui , Guo ShiWen
Published: August 2014

Introduction:

The insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme ( ACE) gene has recently been linked to the pathogenesis and progression of human cancers. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential association between ACE I/D polymorphism and glioma in a Chinese population.

Materials and methods:

A case-control study involving patients with 800 glioma and 800 controls was conducted. Polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay was applied to assess the ACE I/D genotypes.

Results:

Glioma cases had a significantly higher frequency of DD genotype [odds ratio (OR) = 1.61, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.12, 2.32; p = 0.01] than controls. When stratified by the grade of glioma, cases with WHO IV glioma had a significantly higher frequency of DD genotype (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.03, 2.21; p = 0.03). When stratified by the histology of glioma, there was no significant difference in the distribution of each genotype.

Conclusion:

Our study suggested that the ACE DD genotype was associated with a higher glioma risk in this Chinese population. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report describing the potential association between ACE I/D polymorphism and glioma. Additional studies are needed to confirm this finding.
A core promoter variant of angiotensinogen gene and interindividual variation in response to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
Authors: Yu Huimin , Lin Shuguang , Zhong Jiuchang , He Min , Jin Lijun , Zhang Yuqing , Liu Guozhang
Published: August 2014

Introduction:

The polymorphic angiotensinogen (AGT) gene is one of the most promising candidates for essential hypertension. The aim of this study was to examine the association between the A-6G variant of the AGT gene and the blood pressure response to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in hypertensive subjects.

Methods:

Five hundred and nine mildly to moderately hypertensive subjects received ACE inhibitors for six weeks after a two-week run-in period. AGT genotyping was performed by direct polymerase chain reaction amplification and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) nucleotide sequencing from peripheral blood.

Results:

The AA genotype, AG genotype, and GG genotype were present in 301 (59.1%), 186 (36.6%), and 22 (4.3%) of patients, respectively. As compared with patients carrying the AA or AG genotype, those carrying the GG genotype had significantly greater reductions in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and mean arterial pressure ( p=0.007, 0.014, 0.027 and 0.005, respectively). Moreover, stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that the A-6G genotype was a significant predictor of systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure reductions ( p=0.040 and 0.019, respectively).

Conclusion:

Our study indicates that the A-6G variant of the AGT gene may be an important determinant of interindividual variation in the response to ACE inhibitors.
Hypokalemia correlated with arterial stiffness but not microvascular endothelial function in patients with primary aldosteronism
Authors: Chang Yi-Yao , Chen Aaron , Chen Ying-Hsien , Hung Chi-Sheng , Wu Vin-Cent , Wu Xue-Ming , Lin Yen-Hung , Ho Yi-Lwun , Wu Kwan-Dun ,   the TAIPAI Study Group
Published: August 2014

Introduction:

Hypokalemia in primary aldosteronism (PA) patients correlates with higher levels of cardiovascular events and altered left ventricular geometry. However, the influence of aldosterone on microvascular endothelial function and the effect of hypokalemia on the vascular structure still remain unclear.

Objectives:

We investigated the peripheral arterial functions, including the endothelial function of microvasculature and arterial stiffness in PA and essential hypertension (EH) patients, and the correlation between hypokalemia and peripheral arterial function among PA patients.

Methods:

Twenty patients diagnosed as EH and 37 patients with PA were enrolled in this study. Reactive hyperemia index (RHI) and the augmentation index (AI) were obtained by non-invasive peripheral arterial tonometry.

Results:

Twenty EH patients and a total of 37 PA patients, including 21 patients with normokalemia and 16 patients with hypokalemia, were enrolled and divided into groups 1, 2 and 3 respectively. PA patients had significantly higher AI ( p=0.024) but not RHI than EH patients. RHI showed no difference between groups 1, 2 and 3. Group 3 had higher AI than either group 1 or group 2. In the whole study population, serum potassium level, after multivariate regression analysis testing, was the only factor associated with AI (ß= −0.102; p=0.002). In PA patients, serum potassium level was the only significant factor correlated with AI. (r= −0.458; p=0.004)

Conclusions:

PA patients had higher arterial stiffness but comparable microvascular endothelial function to EH patients. Hypokalemia correlated with arterial stiffness but not microvascular endothelial function in PA patients.
Efficacy and safety of combination therapy of high-dose losartan and hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hypertension
Authors: Shiga Yuhei , Miura Shin-ichiro , Norimatsu Kenji , Hitaka Yuka , Nagata Itsuki , Koyoshi Rie , Morii Joji , Kuwano Takashi , Uehara Yoshinari , Inoue Asao , Shirotani Tetsuro , Fujisawa Kazuaki , Matsunaga Eiyu , Saku Keijiro
Published: August 2014

Objective:

We analyzed the efficacy and safety of combination therapy of high-dose losartan (100 mg/day) and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, 12.5 mg/day) compared with those of the combination of high-dose telmisartan (80 mg/day) and HCTZ (12.5 mg/day).

Methods:

Forty hypertensive patients who received a combination of high-dose telmisartan and HCTZ were enrolled. We applied a changeover strategy with switching from a combination of high-dose telmisartan and HCTZ to high-dose losartan and HCTZ. We divided the patients into two groups; those who achieved the target blood pressure (controlled group) and those who did not reach the target blood pressure (uncontrolled group) before the changeover and performed further analysis.

Results:

The uncontrolled group showed a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (143±12 mmHg to 126±11 mmHg at three months). In addition, serum uric acid significantly decreased in all subjects, and in each of the controlled and uncontrolled groups. There were no significant changes in other biochemical parameters, such as potassium and hemoglobin A1c, at three months after the changeover in all subjects.

Conclusion:

Combination therapy with high-dose losartan and HCTZ was superior to the combination of telmisartan and HCTZ with respect to significant decreases in systolic blood pressure and serum uric acid in hypertensive patients.
Effects of the angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas/PI3K/Akt/nitric oxide axis and the possible role of atrial natriuretic peptide in an acute atrial tachycardia canine model
Authors: Zhao Jun , Liu Enzhao , Li Guangping , Qi Lingshan , Li Jian , Yang Wansong
Published: August 2014

Objective:

To investigate the effects of the angiotensin-(1-7) signaling pathway and the possible role of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) on atrial electrical remodeling in canines with acute atrial tachycardia.

Methods:

Forty dogs were randomly assigned to eight groups (five dogs/group): sham, paced control, paced + angiotensin-(1-7), paced + angiotensin-(1-7) + Mas inhibitor, paced + angiotensin-(1-7) + Akt inhibitor, paced + angiotensin-(1-7) + PI3K inhibitor, paced + angiotensin-(1-7) + nitric oxide (NO) inhibitor, and paced + angiotensin-(1-7) + A-71915 (ANP receptor antagonist). Rapid atrial pacing was maintained at 600 bpm for 2 h for all groups, except the sham group, and angiotensin-(1-7) (6 μg kg−1 h−1), Mas inhibitor (5.83 μg kg−1 h−1), Akt inhibitor (2.14 μg kg−1 h−1), PI3K inhibitor (2.86 μg kg−1 h−1), NO synthase inhibitor (180 μg kg−1h−1), or A-71915 (0.30 μg kg−1 h−1) were administered intravenously. Atrial effective refractory periods, inducibility, and duration of atrial fibrillation (pacing cycle lengths: 300, 250, and 200 ms), and left atrial ANP concentrations were measured.

Results:

After pacing, the atrial effective refractory periods at the six sites shortened with increased inducibility and duration of atrial fibrillation, which was attenuated by angiotensin-(1-7), and increased ANP concentrations, which was promoted by angiotensin-(1-7) (paced control vs. sham; P < 0.05). All inhibitors and A-71915 blocked the electrophysiological effects of angiotensin-(1-7). ANP secretion induced by angiotensin-(1-7) was also blocked by all inhibitors.

Conclusion:

Angiotensin-(1-7) prevented acute electrical remodeling in canines with acute atrial tachycardia via the angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas/PI3K/Akt/NO signaling pathway. ANP was related to the anti-arrhythmic effects of angiotensin-(1-7).
ACE-inhibition increases podocyte number in experimental glomerular disease independent of proliferation
Authors: Zhang Jiong , Yanez David , Floege Anna , Lichtnekert Julia , Krofft Ronald D , Liu Zhi-Hong , Pippin Jeffrey W , Shankland Stuart J
Published: August 2014

Objective:

The objective of this article is to test the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibition on glomerular epithelial cell number in an inducible experimental model of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

Background:

Although ACE-inhibition has been shown to limit podocyte loss by enhancing survival, little is known about its effect on podocyte number following an abrupt decline in disease.

Methods:

Experimental FSGS was induced with cytotoxic antipodocyte antibody. Following induction, groups were randomized to receive the ACE-inhibitor enalapril, the smooth muscle relaxant hydralazine (blood pressure control) or drinking water. Blood pressure, kidney function and histology were measured seven and 14 days following disease induction.

Results:

Both glomerulosclerosis and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio were less in the ACE-inhibition arm at day 14. At day 7 of disease, mean podocyte numbers were 26% and 29% lower in the enalapril and hydralazine arms, respectively, compared to normal mice in which no antibody was injected. At day 14, the mean podocyte number was only 18% lower in the enalapril arm, but was 39% lower in the hydralazine arm compared to normal mice. Podocyte proliferation did not occur at any time in any group. Compared to water- or hydralazine-treated mice with FSGS, the enalapril arm had a higher mean number of glomerular parietal epithelial cells that co-expressed the podocyte proteins WT-1 and synaptopodin, as well as phospho-ERK.

Conclusion:

The results show following an abrupt decline in podocyte number, the initiation of ACE-inhibition but not hydralazine, was accompanied by higher podocyte number in the absence of proliferation. This was accompanied by a higher number of parietal epithelial cells that co-express podocyte proteins. Increasing podocyte number appears to be accompanied by reduced glomerulosclerosis.
A Novel Percutaneous Technique for Treating Complete Rectal Prolapse in Adults
Authors: Ammar Samir Ahmad , Kottb Mohamad B. M.
Published: August 2014

Purpose. To evaluate a new technique for treating complete rectal prolapse in adults that combines injection sclerotherapy with anal encirclement. Methods. From 2008 to 2012, 20 patients were treated using combined perirectal injection sclerotherapy with anal encirclement. The primary outcome was recurrent full-thickness/mucosal rectal prolapse. Results. The mean age of the patients was 39 years. The mean operating time was 17 minutes. Patients had short hospital stays (range = 2-4 days) and rapid recovery with no serious postoperative complications. After a mean follow-up of 22 months, recurrence occurred in 9 patients, and was complete in 6 cases and mucosal in 3 patients. Recurrent mucosal prolapse was treated with a mucosectomy, while recurrent complete rectal prolapse was treated with an open rectopexy with mesh. Conclusion. The combination of perirectal sclerotherapy and anal encirclement for treating complete rectal prolapse in adults is a simple and safe procedure with reasonable outcome. These findings call for confirmatory trials in larger series.
Contribution of the Medial Malleolus to Tibiotalar Joint Contact Characteristics
Authors: Lareau Craig R. , Bariteau Jason T. , Paller David J. , Koruprolu Sarath C. , DiGiovanni Christopher W.
Published: August 2014

Background. Isolated medial malleolus fractures are typically treated operatively to minimize the potential for articular incongruity, instability, nonunion, and posttraumatic arthritis. The literature, however, has not clearly demonstrated inferior outcomes with conservative treatment of these injuries. This study measured the effects of medial malleolus fracture and its resultant instability on tibiotalar joint contact characteristics. We hypothesized that restoration of anatomical alignment and stability through fixation would significantly improve contact characteristics. Methods. A Tekscan pressure sensor was inserted and centered over the talar dome in 8 cadaveric foot and ankle specimens. Each specimen was loaded at 700 N in multiple coronal and sagittal plane orientations. After testing fractured samples, the medial malleolus was anatomically fixed before repeat testing. Contact area and pressure were analyzed using a 2-way repeated-measure ANOVA. Results. In treated fractures, contact areas were higher, and mean contact pressures were lower for all positions. These differences were statistically significant in the majority of orientations and approached statistical significance in pure plantarflexion and pure inversion. Decreases in contact area varied from 15.1% to 42.1%, with the most dramatic reductions in positions of hindfoot eversion. Conclusions. These data emphasize the importance of the medial malleolus in maintaining normal tibiotalar contact area and pressure. The average decrease in contact area after simulated medial malleolar fractures was 27.8% (>40% in positions of hindfoot eversion). Such differences become clinically relevant in cases of medial malleolar nonunion or malunion. Therefore, we recommend anatomical reduction and fixation of medial malleolus fractures with any displacement.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level V—Cadaveric Study
Health-related quality of life and sense of coherence among people with obesity: Important factors for health management
Authors: Skär Lisa , Juuso Päivi , Söderberg Siv
Published: August 2014

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether health-related quality of life and levels of sense of coherence among people with obesity are correlated with body mass index, age, and gender.

Methods:

A cross-sectional, descriptive research design was used. Subjects ( n = 157) were selected from a sample of participants in an ongoing survey and had a body mass index >30 kg/m2. Data were collected using the Short Form-36 Health Survey and the Sense of Coherence Scale.

Results:

The mean body mass index of women was higher than that of men. Compared to men, a greater proportion of women had a low sense of coherence. There was a significant relationship between low physical health and high body mass index. Female gender and older age correlated with a low sense of coherence and showed a significant association with high body mass index.

Conclusion:

To increase the health-related quality of life, people with obesity need support to help manage their life situation based on their individual needs and personal resources.
Hereditary spherocytosis: Consequences of delayed diagnosis
Authors: Steward Sarah C , Chauvenet Allen R , O’Suoji Chibuzo
Published: August 2014

Objective:

To determine whether patients with undiagnosed hereditary spherocytosis hospitalized for transfusions might have avoided hospitalization via earlier diagnosis.

Study design:

Charts of all (N = 30) patients with hereditary spherocytosis seen in pediatric hematology at West Virginia University-Charleston were reviewed. Family and transfusion history and presence of neonatal jaundice were recorded. Complete blood count and reticulocyte values during infancy were available for 20 of 30 patients, while baseline steady-state values were available for all 30.

Results:

Transfusions were given to 22 patients; 12 of 14 with an aplastic crisis were undiagnosed. In 10 of 12, the severity of anemia led to hospitalization (3 to intensive care). All 10 had prior mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration and/or red cell distribution width elevations and a history of neonatal jaundice; 7 of 10 had a positive family history.

Conclusions:

Undiagnosed hereditary spherocytosis may lead to inpatient transfusions for severe anemia. Earlier detection of hereditary spherocytosis is easily achievable and may reduce hospitalizations via closer monitoring.
Leukocytoclastic vasculitis in an adolescent with ulcerative colitis: Report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Butts G Tyler , Bishop Phyllis R , Wyatt Julie P , Nowicki Michael J
Published: August 2014

An adolescent female with long-standing, difficult-to-control ulcerative colitis developed leukocytoclastic vasculitis, a rare cutaneous extra-intestinal manifestation of the inflammatory bowel disease. The authors provide a literature review on leukocytoclastic vasculitis complicating ulcerative colitis. Furthermore, the clinical features of leukocytoclastic vasculitis are compared and contrasted with the more common cutaneous extra-intestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease, erythema nodosum, and pyoderma gangrenosum.
Employers’ Perspectives on Hiring and Accommodating Workers With Mental Illness
Authors: Shankar Janki , Liu Lili , Nicholas David , Warren Sharon , Lai Daniel , Tan Shawn , Zulla Rosslynn , Couture Jennifer , Sears Alexandra
Published: August 2014

Many individuals with mental illness want to return to work and stay in employment. Yet, there is little research that has examined the perspectives of employers on hiring and accommodating these workers and the kinds of supports employers need to facilitate their reintegration into the workforce. The aim of the current research was to explore the challenges employers face and the support they need to hire and accommodate workers with mental illness (WWMI). A qualitative research design guided by a grounded theory approach was used. In-depth interviews were conducted with 28 employers selected from a wide range of industries in and around Edmonton, Canada. The employers were a mix of frontline managers, disability consultants, and human resource managers who had direct experience with hiring and supervising WWMI. Data were analyzed using the principles of grounded theory. The findings highlight several challenges that employers face when dealing with mental health issues of workers in the workplace. These challenges can act as barriers to hiring and accommodating WWMI.
Sino-Indian Maritime Ambitions Collide in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Pant Harsh V.
Published: August 2014

The Indian Ocean is increasingly playing an important role in Chinese efforts to establish a position as a leading maritime power in the region. And this is resulting in Sino-Indian competition for influence in the Indian Ocean and beyond. Despite a significant improvement in Sino-Indian ties since the late 1990s, their bilateral relationship remains competitive. The very steps that China is taking to protect and enhance its interests in the Indian Ocean region are generating apprehensions in Indian strategic circles, thereby engendering a classic security dilemma between the two Asian giants. And it is India’s fears and perceptions of China’s growing naval prowess in the Indian Ocean that is driving Indian naval posture. This article examines this budding maritime rivalry in the Indian Ocean between Asia two rising powers and argues that unless managed carefully, the potential for this maritime rivalry turning serious in the future remains high, especially as Sino-Indian naval competition is likely to intensify with the Indian and Chinese navies operating far from their shores.
Facile fix of porous composite titania photocatalytic film by PEO
Authors: Wang Miao , Guo Saiya , Wang Yunlong , Wang Hao , Yao Yongjian , Min Tianxu
Published: August 2014

Porous composite titania photocatalytic films were fixed on steel substrate by plasma electrolytic oxidation. Aluminate solution containing TiO2 nanopowders was used as electrolyte. The microstructure and photocatalytic activities of the films were studied. The investigation results revealed that when the electrolyte contained a few TiO2 powders, the film consisted of A-TiO2, Al2TiO5 and a few γ-Al2O3. With increasing the concentration of TiO2 powders in the electrolyte, γ-Al2O3 phase disappeared, and the surface content of Ti element increased. The film surface was coarse and porous, which became more and more coarse with more titania powders in the electrolyte. With increasing the concentration of titania powders in the electrolyte, the photocatalytic activity of the film gradually increased. Within 2 h irradiation, the biggest photodegradation ratio of rhodamine B increased to 88% for the film obtained with 8 g L−1 titania powders in the electrolyte.
Joining of arc sprayed coating to substrate by compound casting
Authors: Zhao J-H. , Jin T. , He K. , Ma Q.
Published: August 2014

Compound casting was used to achieve the joining of arc sprayed coating to substrate. A layer of coating was deposited on the core by arc spraying, and then molten metal was poured into the mould to achieve the combination between substrate and coating. After solidification, the microstructure, chemical compositions and phase constitutions at the interface were analysed. The results show that in the case of casting aluminium or A356 melt around the aluminium coating, metallurgical bonding is formed at the interface after the oxide layer on the surface of coating is broken. There is no continuous metallic transition at the interface of Al coating/Al (Al/Al), while a transition from substrate to coating is formed at the interface of Al coating/A356 (Al/A356). Two diffusion layers are formed at the interface of Al coating/AZ91 (Al/AZ91), and the layers beside the substrate and coating are composed of Al12Mg17+δ (Mg) and Al3Mg2 respectively.
Obinutuzumab (GA101) in relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia: final data from the phase 1/2 GAUGUIN study
Authors: Cartron Guillaume , de Guibert Sophie , Dilhuydy Marie-Sarah , Morschhauser Franck , Leblond Veronique , Dupuis Jehan , Mahe Beatrice , Bouabdallah Reda , Lei Guiyuan , Wenger Michael , Wassner-Fritsch Elisabeth , Hallek Michael
Published: August 2014

Key Points

In this phase 1/2 study, obinutuzumab (GA101) monotherapy was active in patients with relapsed or refractory CLL. Best overall response was lower in phase 2 vs phase 1, possibly due to higher baseline tumor burden resulting in lower treatment exposure.
Mechanisms of exercise intolerance in Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease grade 1 COPD
Authors: Guenette Jordan A. , Chin Roberto C. , Cheng Sicheng , Dominelli Paolo B. , Raghavan Natya , Webb Katherine A. , Neder J. Alberto , O’Donnell Denis E.
Published: August 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if a dissociation existed between respiratory drive, as estimated by diaphragmatic electromyography (EMGdi), and its pressure-generating capacity during exercise in mild chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and whether this, if present, had negative sensory consequences.

Subjects meeting spirometric criteria for mild COPD (n=16) and age and sex-matched controls (n=16) underwent detailed pulmonary function testing and a symptom limited cycle test while detailed ventilatory, sensory and respiratory mechanical responses were measured.

Compared with controls, subjects with mild COPD had greater ventilatory requirements throughout submaximal exercise. At the highest equivalent work rate of 60 W, they had a significantly higher: total work of breathing (32±17versus16±7 J·min−1; p<0.01); EMGdi(37.3±17.3versus17.9±11.7% of maximum; p<0.001); and EMGdito transdiaphragmatic pressure ratio (0.87±0.38versus0.52±0.27; p<0.01). Dyspnoea–ventilation slopes were significantly higher in mild COPD than controls (0.17±0.12versus0.10±0.05; p<0.05). However, absolute dyspnoea ratings reached significant levels only at high levels of ventilation.

Increased respiratory effort and work of breathing, and a wider dissociation between diaphragmatic activation and pressure-generating capacity were found at standardised work rates in subjects with mild COPD compared with controls. Despite these mechanical and neuromuscular abnormalities, significant dyspnoea was only experienced at higher work rates.
Diagnostic yield of specific inhalation challenge in hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Authors: Muñoz Xavier , Sánchez-Ortiz Mónica , Torres Ferran , Villar Ana , Morell Ferran , Cruz María-Jesús
Published: August 2014

Reliable methods are needed to diagnose hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The aim of the study was to establish the diagnostic yield of specific inhalation challenge (SIC) in patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

All patients with suspected hypersensitivity pneumonitis in whom SIC was performed (n=113) were included. SIC was considered positive when patients showed a decrease of >15% in forced vital capacity (FVC) or >20% in diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon dioxide, or a decrease of 10% to 15% in FVC accompanied by a temperature increase of 0.5°C within 24 h of inhalation of the antigen.

SIC was positive to the agents tested in 68 patients: 64 received a diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis and SIC results were considered false-positive in the remaining four patients. In the SIC-negative group (n=45), 24 patients received a diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis and SIC results were considered false-negative, and 21 patients were diagnosed with other respiratory diseases. The sensitivity and specificity of the test were 72.7% and 84%, respectively. Having hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by an antigen other than birds or fungi predicted a false-negative result (p=0.001).

In hypersensitivity pneumonitis, positive SIC testing virtually confirms the diagnosis, whereas negative testing does not rule it out, especially when the antigenic sources are not birds or fungi.