bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postoperative acute kidney injury following intraoperative blood product transfusions during cardiac surgery
Authors: Kindzelski Bogdan A. , Corcoran Philip , Siegenthaler Michael P. , Horvath Keith A.
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

This study explored the nature of the association between intraoperative usage of red blood cell, fresh frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate or platelet transfusions and acute kidney injury.

Methods:

A total of 1175 patients who underwent cardiac surgery between 2008 and 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. We assessed the association between: (1) preoperative patient characteristics and acute kidney injury, (2) intraoperative blood product usage and acute kidney injury, (3) acute kidney injury and 30-day mortality or re-hospitalization.

Results:

In our cohort of 1175 patients, 288 patients (24.5%) developed acute kidney injury. This included 162 (13.8%), 69 (5.9%) and 57 (4.9%) developing stage 1, stage 2 or stage 3 acute kidney injury, respectively. Increased red blood cell, fresh frozen plasma or platelet transfusions increased the odds of developing acute kidney injury. Specifically, every unit of red blood cells, fresh frozen plasma or platelets transfused was associated with an increase in the covariate-adjusted odds ratio of developing ⩾ stage 2 kidney injury of 1.18, 1.19 and 1.04, respectively.

Conclusions:

Intraoperative blood product transfusions were independently associated with an increased odds of developing acute kidney injury following cardiac surgery. Further randomized studies are needed to better define intraoperative transfusion criteria.
Refractory cardiac arrest, inferior vena cava agenesis and extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a demanding combination
Authors: Colombier Sébastien , Demondion Pierre , Bouabdallaoui Nadia , Lebreton Guillaume , Leprince Pascal
Published: June 2017

Inferior vena cava abnormalities or agenesis had to be suspected in front of technical difficulties during venous catheterization. In the setting of extracorporeal life support and during chest compressions, femoral vascular access is the easiest, most efficient and, perhaps, the first approach for a successful extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. In the case of inferior vena cava agenesis leading to cannulation failure and/or complications, the use of the right internal jugular vein for salvage venous cannulation is a potential life-saving strategy.
A study of predictive validity, responsiveness, and minimal clinically important difference of arm accelerometer in real-world activity of patients with chronic stroke
Authors: Chen Hao-ling , Lin Keh-chung , Hsieh Yu-wei , Wu Ching-yi , Liing Rong-jiuan , Chen Chia-ling
Published: June 2017

Objective:

To investigate the predictive validity, responsiveness, and minimal clinically important difference of arm accelerometer in real-world activity of patients with chronic stroke.

Design:

Validation and psychometric study.

Setting:

Three medical centers.

Subjects:

Patients with chronic stroke came from three separated randomized controlled trials.

Interventions:

Patients with stroke received upper extremity rehabilitation programs for four weeks.

Main measures:

Real-world arm movements were measured by an arm accelerometer and three clinical measurement tools—the Motor Activity Log, Stroke Impact Scale, and Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living—administered before and after treatment.

Results:

A total of 82 subjects were recruited in the study (mean age: 55.32 years; mean score of Fugl-Meyer Assessment: 39.91). Correlations between the arm accelerometer and three clinical measurement tools were fair to moderate (Pearson’s r = 0.47, 0.42, and 0.34, respectively). The correlation between the arm accelerometer and the quality of use of Motor Activity Log subscale was moderate to good (Pearson’s r = 0.57). The responsiveness of the arm accelerometer from pretreatment to posttreatment was medium (standardized response mean = 0.72). The minimal clinically important difference range for the arm accelerometer was 547–751 mean counts.

Conclusion:

The arm accelerometer demonstrated acceptable predictive validity and responsiveness in patients with chronic stroke. The affected arm activity measured by the arm accelerometer was sensitive to change. The change score of a patient with chronic stroke on the arm accelerometer should reach 574–751 mean counts to be regarded as a minimal clinically important difference.
Job Requirements for Marketing Graduates: Are There Differences in the Knowledge, Skills, and Personal Attributes Needed for Different Salary Levels?
Authors: Schlee Regina Pefanis , Karns Gary L.
Published: June 2017

Several studies in the business press and in the marketing literature point to a “transformation” of marketing caused by the availability of large amounts of data for marketing analysis and planning. However, the effects of the integration of technology on entry-level jobs for marketing graduates have not been fully explored. This study examines the knowledge, skills, and personal attributes in listings for entry-level marketing jobs in the United States and the accompanying salaries. Our analysis of job postings reveals shifts in the knowledge, skills, and personal attributes desired by employers of marketing graduates. This study includes recommendations for curricular and cocurricular adjustments for marketing graduates seeking jobs at various salary levels.
Coati Bodies: Cytoplasmic Hyaline Globules in the Ganglionic Neurons of Aging Captive Coatis
Authors: Cooper Timothy K. , Garner Michael M. , Baccon Jennifer , Mani Haresh
Published: June 2017

Intensely eosinophilic and glassy intracytoplasmic inclusions were present in the neurons of the peripheral autonomic ganglia, Meissner’s and Auerbach’s plexus, and spinal ganglia in 20 aged white-nosed coatis ( Nasua narica, 7–19 years old) and in 4 of 7 brown-nosed coatis ( Nasua nasua, 2–21 years old) from multiple zoological institutions. Inclusions were single to numerous, sometimes distorting the cell. Pheochromocytomas were present in 5 of 16 white-nosed and 2 of 6 brown-nosed coatis, although no inclusions were present in the adrenal glands. Histochemically, immunohistochemically, and ultrastructurally, these inclusions were consistent with dense neurosecretory granules. Although similar inclusions have been reported sporadically in the adrenal medulla of humans and several other mammalian species as both incidental and pathologic findings, ganglionic inclusions reported herein appear to be unique and related to age in these species.
The Pathologist 2.0: An Update on Digital Pathology in Veterinary Medicine
Authors: Bertram Christof A. , Klopfleisch Robert
Published: June 2017

Using light microscopy to describe the microarchitecture of normal and diseased tissues has changed very little since the middle of the 19th century. While the premise of histologic analysis remains intact, our relationship with the microscope is changing dramatically. Digital pathology offers new forms of visualization, and delivery of images is facilitated in unprecedented ways. This new technology can untether us entirely from our light microscopes, with many pathologists already performing their jobs using virtual microscopy. Several veterinary colleges have integrated virtual microscopy in their curriculum, and some diagnostic histopathology labs are switching to virtual microscopy as their main tool for the assessment of histologic specimens. Considering recent technical advancements of slide scanner and viewing software, digital pathology should now be considered a serious alternative to traditional light microscopy. This review therefore intends to give an overview of the current digital pathology technologies and their potential in all fields of veterinary pathology (ie, research, diagnostic service, and education). A future integration of digital pathology in the veterinary pathologist’s workflow seems to be inevitable, and therefore it is proposed that trainees should be taught in digital pathology to keep up with the unavoidable digitization of the profession.
Glomerular Lipidosis in Dogs
Authors: Kohnken Rebecca A. , Amerman Hayley , Brown Cathy A. , Furrow Eva , Lees George E. , Cianciolo Rachel E.
Published: June 2017

Glomerular lipidosis (GL) is characterized by dilated glomerular capillary loops containing lipid-laden cells (foam cells). Previously, GL was considered to be an incidental finding because affected dogs were typically not azotemic. However, the International Renal Interest Society staging system for canine chronic kidney disease has increased the awareness of other clinical parameters (eg, proteinuria and hypertension) that should be included in the assessment of renal function. As such, the aim of this study was to determine clinical abnormalities and concurrent renal lesions in dogs with GL. GL was identified in renal biopsies from 46 dogs evaluated by the International Veterinary Renal Pathology Service. GL was the sole diagnosis in 5 of 46 cases (11%), all of which were proteinuric. All 5 dogs had at least 1 additional clinicopathologic abnormality consistent with renal disease, including hypertension (4), azotemia (3), and/or hypoalbuminemia (2). The remaining 41 dogs had GL in combination with other glomerular lesions, the most common being focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (16, 35%), lesions consistent with juvenile nephropathy (8, 17%), and glomerular amyloidosis (5, 11%). Overall, dogs with severe GL were younger than were those with mild GL ( P < .001). The percentage of glomeruli affected by GL differed by concurrent diagnoses ( P = .034), with the highest percentage of affected glomeruli in dogs with GL alone or those with concurrent juvenile nephropathy. These findings suggest that GL should be a recognized histologic phenotype of glomerular injury associated with clinical renal dysfunction and/or juvenile nephropathies.
Neuroaxonal Dystrophy and Cavitating Leukoencephalopathy of Chihuahua Dogs
Authors: Degl’Innocenti Sara , Asiag Nimrod , Zeira Offer , Falzone Cristian , Cantile Carlo
Published: June 2017

A novel form of neuroaxonal dystrophy is described in 3 Chihuahua pups, 2 of which were from the same litter. It was characterized not only by accumulation of numerous and widely distributed axonal swellings (spheroids) but also by a severe cavitating leukoencephalopathy. The dogs presented with progressive neurological signs, including gait abnormalities and postural reaction deficits. Magnetic resonance images and gross examination at necropsy revealed dilation of lateral ventricles and cerebral atrophy, accompanied by cavitation of the subcortical white matter. Histopathologically, severe axonal degeneration with formation of large spheroids was found in the cerebral and cerebellar white matter, thalamus, and brainstem nuclei. Small-caliber spheroids were observed in the cerebral and cerebellar gray matter. The telencephalic white matter had severe myelin loss and cavitation with relative sparing of the U-fibers. Different from previously reported cases of canine neuroaxonal dystrophy, in these Chihuahuas the spheroid distribution predominantly involved the white matter with secondary severe leukoencephalopathy.
Integrating mechatronics in project-based learning of Malaysian high school students and teachers
Authors: Tauro Flavia , Cha Youngsu , Rahim Faszly , Sattar Rasul Mohammad , Osman Kamisah , Halim Lilia , Dennisur Dominick , Esner Ben , Porfiri Maurizio
Published: June 2017

College students’ attrition in engineering programs is a major problem in developed and developing countries. Outreach activities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are a powerful resource to ignite K-12 students’ interest to pursue scientific and engineering careers. Here, a program on mechatronics for Malaysian high-schoolers developed at the New York University Tandon School of Engineering and implemented at the National University of Malaysia is presented. The program follows a dual model where instructors and students work together on a project-based learning curriculum inspired by real-world problems. A group of Malaysian graduate students and high-school teachers was trained to serve as instructors by the New York University team. After training, the New York University team aided the instructors to administer the curriculum to 100 high-schoolers and organize a one-day exhibit for families at the National University of Malaysia. Pre- and post-assessment surveys offer evidence for the positive impact of the program on teachers’ professional development and student engagement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
Fragile growth coalitions or powerful contestations? Cancelled Olympic bids in Boston and Hamburg
Authors: Lauermann John , Vogelpohl Anne
Published: June 2017

Hosting sports “mega-events” like the Olympics is a common scenario among urban growth coalitions worldwide. They are promoted as temporary “catalysts” for local economic growth linked to exceptional decisions in land provision and public spending. But this model of growth politics is increasingly contested: recent Olympic bids have failed in a number of cities as urban social movements organize against them while growth coalitions are unable or unwilling to defend their projects. Two cities exemplify this changing political economic landscape: Boston (USA) and Hamburg (Germany). Both cities launched bids for the 2024 Summer Olympics, and both cities subsequently cancelled their bids. Drawing on a comparative study of bidding politics in Boston and Hamburg, the paper asks why growth policy failed, analyzing the conflict between opposition movements and long-established growth coalitions. These episodes are symptoms of a growth coalition fragility that weakens their effectiveness in urban politics. Urban growth coalitions must contend with changing growth priorities and leadership; by triggering fragility, protest movements are able to gain new influence on the urban policy agenda.
Digital methods I
Authors: Leszczynski Agnieszka
Published: June 2017

In this first of three reports, I engage with ‘digital methods’ as methodologies or approaches to knowing and making sense of the world. Triangulation and representativeness are two sites of tension at which new opportunities for research opened up by digital mediums, mediations and data sources come up against epistemological limitations of methodologies for accessing and making sense of digital presences, practices, and spatialities. Triangulation signals the challenges of maximizing meaning in qualitative and mixed-methods digital research, whereas representativeness captures the challenges of using data-analytic approaches to say something meaningful about socio-spatial relations rather than about digital entities per se.
Perspectives on university library automation and national development in Uganda
Authors: Buwule Robert S. , Ponelis Shana R.
Published: June 2017

Academic libraries in universities store large volumes of research that can be used for development purposes to support teaching, learning, research, innovation, community outreach and partnerships. Library automation incorporates the adoption of integrated library systems. Effective adoption of an integrated library system enables broad-based access to global and local knowledge sources to solve local, regional and national development challenges. Using a sequential mixed methods approach in a case study of a Ugandan public university, Kyambogo University, this study investigated the perceptions of librarians, information workers and other university stakeholders with respect to library automation and the contribution thereof to national development. The results confirmed that the integrated library system improved library operations and played an important role in supporting national development. This study also highlights the continued challenges of adopting an integrated library system in developing countries such as Uganda, which, if addressed, could further improve information service delivery for a nation’s socio-economic transformation.
Serial Changes in 3-Dimensional Supraspinatus Muscle Volume After Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Chung Seok Won , Oh Kyung-Soo , Moon Sung Gyu , Kim Na Ra , Lee Ji Whan , Shim Eungjune , Park Sehyung , Kim Youngjun
Published: June 2017

Background:

There is considerable debate on the recovery of rotator cuff muscle atrophy after rotator cuff repair.

Purpose:

To evaluate the serial changes in supraspinatus muscle volume after rotator cuff repair by using semiautomatic segmentation software and to determine the relationship with functional outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Seventy-four patients (mean age, 62.8 ± 8.8 years) who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair and obtained 3 consecutive (preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and later postoperatively [≥1 year postoperatively]) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans having complete Y-views were included. We generated a 3-dimensional (3D) reconstructed model of the supraspinatus muscle by using in-house semiautomatic segmentation software (ITK-SNAP) and calculated both the 2-dimensional (2D) cross-sectional area and 3D volume of the muscle in 3 different views (Y-view, 1 cm medial to the Y-view [Y+1 view], and 2 cm medial to the Y-view [Y+2 view]) at the 3 time points. The area and volume changes at each time point were evaluated according to repair integrity. Later postoperative volumes were compared with immediately postoperative volumes, and their relationship with various clinical factors and the effect of higher volume increases on range of motion, muscle power, and visual analog scale pain and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were evaluated.

Results:

The interrater reliabilities were excellent for all measurements. Areas and volumes increased immediately postoperatively as compared with preoperatively; however, only volumes on the Y+1 view and Y+2 view significantly increased later postoperatively as compared with immediately postoperatively ( P < .05). There were 9 patients with healing failure, and area and volume changes were significantly less later postoperatively compared with immediately postoperatively at all measurement points in these patients ( P < .05). After omitting the patients with healing failure, volume increases later postoperatively became more prominent ( P < .05) in the order of the Y+2 view, Y+1 view, and Y-view. Volume increases were higher in patients who healed successfully with larger tears ( P = .040). Higher volume increases were associated only with an increase in abduction power ( P = .029) and not with other outcomes.

Conclusion:

The supraspinatus muscle volume increased immediately postoperatively and continuously for at least 1 year after surgery. The increase was evident in patients who had larger tears and healed successfully and when measured toward the more medial portion of the supraspinatus muscle. The volume increases were associated with an increase in shoulder abduction power.
Biomechanical Factors Associated With Achilles Tendinopathy and Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome in Runners
Authors: Becker James , James Stanley , Wayner Robert , Osternig Louis , Chou Li-Shan
Published: June 2017

Background:

There is disagreement in the literature regarding whether the excessive excursion or velocity of rearfoot eversion is related to the development of 2 common running injuries: Achilles tendinopathy (AT) and medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS). An alternative hypothesis suggests that the duration of rearfoot eversion may be an important factor. However, the duration of eversion has received relatively little attention in the biomechanics literature.

Hypothesis:

Runners with AT or MTSS will demonstrate a longer duration of eversion but not greater excursion or velocity of eversion compared with healthy controls.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Forty-two runners participated in this study (13 with AT, 8 with MTSS, and 21 matched controls). Participants were evaluated for lower extremity alignment and flexibility, after which a 3-dimensional kinematic and kinetic running gait analysis was performed. Differences between the 2 injuries and between injured and control participants were evaluated for flexibility and alignment, rearfoot kinematics, and 3 ground-reaction force metrics. Binary logistic regression was used to evaluate which variables best predicted membership in the injured group.

Results:

Injured participants, compared with controls, demonstrated higher standing tibia varus angles (8.67° ± 1.79° vs 6.76° ± 1.75°, respectively; P = .002), reduced static dorsiflexion range of motion (6.14° ± 5.04° vs 11.19° ± 5.10°, respectively; P = .002), more rearfoot eversion at heel-off (–6.47° ± 5.58° vs 1.07° ± 2.26°, respectively; P < .001), and a longer duration of eversion (86.02% ± 15.65% stance vs 59.12% ± 16.50% stance, respectively; P < .001). There were no differences in the excursion or velocity of eversion. The logistic regression (χ2 = 20.84, P < .001) revealed that every 1% increase in the duration of eversion during the stance phase increased the odds of being in the injured group by 1.08 (95% CI, 1.023-1.141; P = .006).

Conclusion:

Compared with healthy controls, runners currently symptomatic with AT or MTSS have a longer duration of eversion but not greater excursion or velocity of eversion.

Clinical Relevance:

Static measures of the tibia varus angle and dorsiflexion range of motion, along with dynamic measures of the duration of eversion, may be useful for identifying runners at risk of sustaining AT or MTSS.
Italian thought and social theory
Authors: Martuccelli Danilo , Rebughini Paola
Published: June 2017

The aim of this article is to explore how, and to what extent, Italian thought – by its focalization on pre-modern theoretical issues and its distance from classical modern topics, such as the philosophy of conscience or the transcendence of language – can offer a different insight on contemporary social theory and critical theory, after the dissolution of the idea of totality as a foundational concept of modernity. In the last decades, a frame named ‘Italian theory’ has started to circulate in international theoretical debates, often with the aim of replacing the exhausted paradigms of poststructuralism, postmodernism and deconstructionism. Indeed, ‘Italian thought’ seems to offer new insights, thinking about the ‘post-totality’ era in a different way. In the article we present a synthetic cartography of Italian thought and we analyse the way in which it can contribute to design new horizons for social theory.
Turning the turn
Authors: Lettow Susanne
Published: June 2017

In many fields within the social sciences and the humanities, the ‘material turn’ has inspired fresh debates about human-nature relationships, ecology and the meaning of the social. However, the new materialism also poses some theoretical-political problems. These problems relate to the questions of ontology, epistemology and anthropology, as I argue in the first part of this article. In the second part, I argue that some theoretical-political problems that characterize the ‘new’ materialism have also been debated within the tradition of historical materialism. By recapitulating different versions of historical materialism, I argue that an important distinction can be drawn between ontological and praxeological forms of materialism. I argue in conclusion that from the perspective of critical social theory, the distinction between ‘old’ and ‘new’ materialism does not hold, and that for political as well as epistemological reasons a critical materialism should renounce any ontological turn to matter itself.
Explaining populism beyond Laclau
Authors: Gauna Aníbal F
Published: June 2017

Populism has been a rather marginalized notion in mainstream social sciences. In his ambitious work On Populist Reason, renowned theoretician Ernesto Laclau aimed to give the notion a more central role. However, the work is dominated by ungrounded theory. In this article I test the factors that the work identifies as conditions to explaining populism, against the backdrop of three historical cases the work analyzes. I add the case of Chávez and the Bolivarian revolution in Venezuela. From the comparison I conclude that the work innovates less than it claims when explaining populism. I propose that a hypothetical way to build on its contribution is by shifting the focus from its central notion of heterogeneity to coalitions, and from there to types of populisms as a way towards the construction of grounded, middle-range generalizations.
Adsorption photobioreactor as a co-treatment system for ammonium and phosphate removal by the response surface method
Authors: Ganjian Etesam , Peyravi Majid , Asqar Qoreyshi Ali , Jahanshahi Mohsen , Shokuhi Rad Ali
Published: June 2017

The co-treatment system of photosynthetic microalgae Chlorella vulgaris and adsorption was investigated as a possible combination of symbiotic mixed culture for the simultaneous removal of nutrients (ammonium and phosphate) and organic contaminants. In this study, response surface methodology for experimental design and optimization was used. For experiment operation, two factorial designs containing five chemical oxygen demand influent (CODin) concentrations (100, 200, 400, 600 and 700 mg l−1) and hydraulic retention times (0.63, 1, 1.75, 2.5 and 2.88 d) were applied. The co-treatment system performed successfully in removing both nutrients (nitrogen and phosphate) and COD, showing around 88%, 75% and 48% removal for the maximum level, respectively. The adsorption-photobioreactor (APBR) displayed superior performance of the microalgae growth rate compared to the photobioreactor. Also, the adsorption capacity (the uptake of COD) has been analysed with the first-order equation. The results showed that the experimental data of the APBR fit well with the model.
Innovation, productivity, and pricing: Capturing value from precision medicine technology in Canada
Authors: Emery J. C. Herbert , Zwicker Jennifer D.
Published: June 2017

For new technology and innovation such as precision medicine to become part of the solution for the fiscal sustainability of Canadian Medicare, decision-makers need to change how services are priced rather than trying to restrain emerging technologies like precision medicine for short-term cost savings. If provincial public payers shift their thinking to be public purchasers, value considerations would direct reform of the reimbursement system to have prices that adjust with technologically driven productivity gains. This strategic shift in thinking is necessary if Canadians are to benefit from the promised benefits of innovations like precision medicine.
Politicians in white coats? Scientific advisory committees and policy in Britain
Authors:   The LSE GV314 Group
Published: June 2017

Do scientists advising government in scientific advisory committees (SACs) in the UK fit the traditional model of offering substantive scientific advice to improve the quality of policy making, are they forums for policy making and negotiation where ‘the science’ is tempered by broader political concerns, or are they simply bodies that legitimise policies already decided upon? The traditional ‘on tap’ model and its alternatives imply differences in how the agendas of SACs are put together, how committees deliberate and how they influence policy, and these implied differences are explored on the basis of a 2015 survey covering the experiences and attitudes of 338 members from 46 scientific committees. The traditional model holds up rather well against models that see SACs filling broader political roles such as policy deliberation and legitimation. The findings suggest that the organization and procedures of SACs indeed allow scientists to offer advice largely without having to engage with or anticipate wider policy considerations and constraints, and that government ‘steering’ or otherwise leading SAC deliberations toward politically desired conclusions is rare.
Synthesis and properties of poly(arylene ether nitrile) with pendant bisulfonic acid for proton exchange membrane application
Authors: Dong Bo , Zhu Shiyang , Song Ying , Guan Saowei
Published: June 2017

A new class of poly(arylene ether nitrile) with a bisulfonated phenyl ring on the side chains (PAEN-bS) was prepared from a hydroxybenyl-containing polymer precursor and a bisulfonated monomer by applying graft reaction. The polymers were soluble in common organic solvents such as dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO, purity>99.5%; Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China), N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc, purity>99.0%; Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd, Shanghai, China), dimethylformamide (DMF, purity>99.0%; Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd), and 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NMP, purity>99.0%; Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co., Ltd) and showed good thermal stability, with a 5% weight loss and temperature higher than 320°C. Remarkably, all the PAEN-bS membranes showed a high proton conductivity of more than 10−2 S cm−1 at room temperature and a low swelling ratio of less than 20% at 100°C; in particular, the conductivity of the PAEN-Bs-60 polymer membrane with the highest ion exchange capacity value was higher than that of Nafion 117 at all test temperature ranges. The combination of good thermal stability, excellent dimensional stability, and high proton conductivity indicates that these polymers are good candidate materials for proton exchange membranes in fuel cell applications.
Vibration signature analysis of distributed defects in ball bearing using wavelet decomposition technique
Authors: Kulkarni SS , Bewoor AK , Ingle RB
Published: June 2017

The analysis of vibration signals acquired from a ball bearing with an extended type of distributed defects is carried out using wavelet decomposition technique. The influence of artificially generated defect and its location on outer and inner race of the ball bearing is observed using vibration data acquired from bearing housing. The comparison of diagnostic information from fast Fourier transform and time frequency decomposition method is made for inner and outer race of ball bearing with single as well as multiple extended defects. To decompose vibration signal acquired from bearing, db04 wavelet technique was implemented. It is observed that impulses appear with a time period corresponding to characteristic defect frequencies. The results observed from wavelet decomposition technique and fast Fourier transform reveal that the characteristic defect frequency is quite consistent even with change in location of defect. The extended type of distributed defects in the ball bearings can also be effectively diagnosed with the help of wavelet decomposition technique and fast Fourier transform.
Empowerment of the Rural Poor through Access to ICT: A Case Study of the Union Information and Service Centre Initiative in Bangladesh
Authors: Ullah Mohammad Sahid
Published: June 2017

This article examines the relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) access and the empowerment of rural people through the Union Information and Service Centres (UISCs) established at the Union Council, the lowest administrative unit of the Bangladeshi government. Based on ethnographic research that explores both everyday peoples’ and beneficiary perspectives, this study reveals that given the conditions of poverty, the illiterate and relatively powerless majority of the rural poor failed to access and use the facilities provided through UISCs, which were inevitably controlled by the power elites in the service area. The study concludes that while access to and use of relevant information is a key component of empowerment, the way UISCs have been organized in a particular kind of socio-economic arrangement, the services delivered neither succeeded in providing equality of access nor has the information available through these centres been deemed relevant to promoting rural investment or reducing social disparity in any significant way. This article argues that empowerment from ICTs does not follow automatically after their implementation, but rather the success of technologies and their access is subject to power relationships within communities.
A serologic survey of Mycoplasma spp. in farmed bison (Bison bison) herds in western Canada
Authors: Bras Ana L. , Suleman Muhammad , Woodbury Murray , Register Karen , Barkema Herman W. , Perez-Casal Jose , Windeyer M. Claire
Published: June 2017

Mycoplasma bovis is emerging as an important pathogen of farmed bison in North America and is associated with high morbidity and mortality in affected herds. We developed an in-house ELISA to detect antibodies against Mycoplasma spp. in bison sera. The aims of the study were to estimate the seroprevalence against Mycoplasma spp. in bison herds with or without past history of M. bovis–associated disease, and to determine potential risk factors for seropositivity to Mycoplasma spp. in farmed bison in western Canada. A total of 858 serum samples were collected from bison >1 y of age from 19 bison herds. The individual and herd-level seroprevalence of Mycoplasma spp. was 12% and 79%, respectively. The proportion of seropositive animals was 0–41% and 0–9% for herds with or without a history of M. bovis–associated disease, respectively. Mycoplasma spp. appear to be widespread in bison in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Eight of 11 herds with no history of M. bovis–associated disease were seropositive for Mycoplasma spp., which suggests that bison can be subclinically infected with Mycoplasma spp., or that infection may be underdiagnosed. Although not specific to M. bovis, the in-house ELISA developed to detect antibodies against Mycoplasma spp. may prove to be a valuable herd-level screening tool, providing insight needed for the development of appropriate prevention and control measures for Mycoplasma-related disease in bison herds.
A diagnostic pathologist’s guide to carpal disease in racehorses
Authors: Engiles Julie B. , Stewart Holly , Janes Jennifer , Kennedy Laura A.
Published: June 2017

As a pathologist, postmortem examination of the equine carpus can be daunting. The anatomy is complex and oftentimes, small or subtle lesions have significant impact on lameness and secondary lesions such as catastrophic musculoskeletal fractures and other injuries. In performance horses, particularly racehorses, the carpus is a common site of injury and source of lameness. Given the predisposition of racehorses to developing carpal disease, familiarity with clinically relevant anatomy and common developmental, degenerative, traumatic, and inflammatory processes are imperative for thorough postmortem examination. Our aim is (1) to provide a concise summary of clinically relevant anatomy and function that serves as a guide for postmortem evaluation of the equine carpus, and (2) to review common carpal injuries and diseases in actively training, racing, or retired racehorses, including developmental lesions (incomplete ossification, osteochondromata), infectious and inflammatory lesions (septic arthritis and tenosynovitis), and degenerative and traumatic lesions (degenerative and traumatic osteoarthritis, osteochondral fragmentation, and polyostotic catastrophic “breakdown” fractures). Representative gross and histologic images are presented along with corresponding antemortem and postmortem diagnostic images, and a review of current scientific literature pertaining to the pathogenesis of these equine carpal lesions.
Markers of oxidative stress in dogs with heart failure
Authors: Verk Barbara , Nemec Svete Alenka , Salobir Janez , Rezar Vida , Domanjko Petrič Aleksandra
Published: June 2017

We tested the hypothesis that indirect measures of oxidative stress (vitamin E, glutathione peroxidase, and malondialdehyde) differ in dogs in heart failure resulting from either myxomatous mitral valve disease or dilated cardiomyopathy. Dogs were classified according to the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification. Additionally, the effect of cardiac therapy on oxidative stress parameters and N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in advanced stages of congestive heart failure was investigated. There were no significant differences in oxidative stress parameters between healthy dogs and the individual groups of cardiac patients. Significantly lower malondialdehyde (MDA) was observed in the ISACHC II group in comparison to ISACHC groups III and I. A significant positive correlation in treated patients was observed between NT-proBNP and MDA, NT-proBNP and vitamin E, as well as between MDA and vitamin E (and lipid-standardized vitamin E). No significant differences in any of the measured parameters were found between treated and non-treated cardiac patients. Our results suggest an association between MDA (the extent of lipid peroxidation) and NT-proBNP, vitamin E and NT-proBNP, as well as between MDA and vitamin E in treated canine patients. Plasma vitamin E concentration was maintained in all stages of cardiovascular disease in these canine patients.
Mindcrafting: The Semantic Characteristics of Spontaneous Names Generated as an Aid to Cognitive Mapping and Navigation of Simulated Environments
Authors: Butler James O.
Published: June 2017

Background. This study explores the extent to which names are formed to serve the development of mental maps to enable efficient navigation of unfamiliar terrain, conducted within a simulated landscape.

Purpose. The primary aim of this study was to examine the semantic properties of spontaneous naming systems, and investigate their potential waypointing influence in personal route mapping.

Method. Participants were tasked with the exploration of a closed-environment in MINECRAFT to find a designated goal, and return to the starting point in as short a time as possible, verbalizing their active thought process throughout. All instances of names were recorded.

Results. The 12 participants created 61 names across 13 distinct sites. The environment had not been cultivated to predispose these points to be of interest, allowing a dedicated discussion of the factors that influence or are complemented by name-derived semantics. A strong negative correlation (−0.88) was found between the number of names generated and speed of task completion, which was calculated to be significant.

Conclusion.Name development is shown to play a role in efficient cognitive mapping, with consistent semantic developmental patterns identifiable, formed equally around interpreted poetics of a space and the observable physical form.
Continuum damage mechanics modeling of composite laminates including transverse cracks
Authors: Okabe Tomonaga , Onodera Sota , Kumagai Yuta , Nagumo Yoshiko
Published: June 2017

In this study, the continuum damage mechanics model for predicting the stiffness reduction of composite laminates including transverse cracks is formulated as a function of crack density. To formulate the model, first the damage variable in the direction normal to the fiber of a ply including transverse cracks is derived. The damage variable is derived by the model assuming a plane strain field in the isotropic plane and using the Gudmundson–Zang model for comparison. The effective compliance based on the strain equivalent principle proposed by Murakami et al. and classical laminate theory are then used to formulate the elastic moduli of laminates of arbitrary lay-up configurations as a function of the damage variable. Finally, the results obtained from this model are compared to the finite-element analysis reported in previous studies. The model proposed in this paper can predict the stiffness of laminates containing damage due to transverse cracks (or surface crack) from just the mechanical properties of a ply and the lay-up configurations. Furthermore, this model can precisely predict the finite-element analysis results and experiment results for the elastic moduli of the laminate of arbitrary lay-up configuration, such as cross-ply, angle ply, and quasi-isotropic, including transverse cracks. This model only considers the damage of the transverse crack; it does not consider damage such as delamination. However, this model seems to be effective in the early stage of damage formation when transverse cracking mainly occurs. The model assuming plane strain field in the isotropic plane which is proposed in this paper can calculate the local stress distribution in a ply including transverse cracks as a function of crack density. The damage evolution of transverse cracks can thus be simulated by determining the fracture criterion.
Attitudes of Palestinians Toward Social Work Interventions in Cases of Wife Assault
Authors: Haj-Yahia Muhammad M. , Btoush Rula
Published: June 2017

The study examined the attitudes of Palestinian adults toward social work interventions in cases of husband-to-wife assault (HWA). A survey, using self-administered questionnaires and interviews, was conducted among a random sample of 624 adults from the Palestinian Authority. Results indicate higher levels of support for interventions aimed at helping the couple solve their problems than for interventions aimed at protecting the safety of battered women. However, this trend becomes reversed in cases of repeated and severe HWA. Greater support for interventions aimed at protecting the safety of battered women was found among women versus men and younger versus older adults, as well as among individuals with lower levels of justifying wife abuse and more egalitarian expectations of marriage.
Why Might Developers Be Reluctant to Build Conservation Subdivisions? Insights from Spatial Regression Analysis
Authors: Mohamed Rayman
Published: June 2017

Despite evidence that households pay more for lots or houses in conservation subdivisions, developers are sometimes reluctant to build them. I use a spatial autoregressive model to shed light on this contradiction. The presence of nearby conservation lots reduces the value of a given conservation lot. I present two possible explanations for this result: (1) Lots located close to each other are indicative of higher density, which is frowned upon by Americans, and (2) conservation lots compete for views and rural aesthetics, and the construction of one lot decreases their availability to other lots. Results for other independent variables corroborate these explanations. Developers’ reluctance to embrace conservation subdivisions in some locations might be a result of regulations that discourage their development. More research is needed on how regulations for conservation subdivisions vary across the United States and how these affect developers’ decisions.
Contemporary Black Entrepreneurship in the Professional Service Sector of Chicago: Intersections of Race, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Transformation
Authors: Harper-Anderson Elsie
Published: June 2017

Entrepreneurship could level the playing field between racial groups and decrease poverty through job creation. Growth in the U.S. professional services (PS) sector over the last several decades has increased high-wage employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Although the number of Black-owned PS businesses has grown, their performance lags behind their counterparts of other races. Black entrepreneurs in highly skilled sectors, such as PS, tend to be more educated, better financed, and have more diverse customer bases than their counterparts in other sectors. Yet, these advancements have not translated into firm performance. This study examines factors influencing outcomes of Black PS entrepreneurs in Chicago using interview and focus group data. Results indicate that racialized barriers, current entrepreneurship culture, and the nature of the PS sector combine to contour a contentious business environment. Updating models of inclusion to address the contemporary entrepreneurial environment and incorporating accountability measures are necessary steps to realize the potential of this group.
BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cuellar Sandra , Vozniak Michael , Rhodes Jill , Forcello Nicholas , Olszta Daniel
Published: June 2017

The management of chronic myeloid leukemia with BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors has evolved chronic myeloid leukemia into a chronic, manageable disease. A patient-centered approach is important for the appropriate management of chronic myeloid leukemia and optimization of long-term treatment outcomes. The pharmacist plays a key role in treatment selection, monitoring drug–drug interactions, identification and management of adverse events, and educating patients on adherence. The combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors with unique safety profiles and individual patients with unique medical histories can make managing treatment difficult. This review will provide up-to-date information regarding tyrosine kinase inhibitor-based treatment of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia. Management strategies for adverse events and considerations for drug–drug interactions will not only vary among patients but also across tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Drug–drug interactions can be mild to severe. In instances where co-administration of concomitant medications cannot be avoided, it is critical to understand how drug levels are impacted and how subsequent dose modifications ensure therapeutic drug levels are maintained. An important component of patient-centered management of chronic myeloid leukemia also includes educating patients on the significance of early and regular monitoring of therapeutic milestones, emphasizing the importance of adhering to treatment in achieving these targets, and appropriately modifying treatment if these clinical goals are not being met. Overall, staying apprised of current research, utilizing the close pharmacist–patient relationship, and having regular interactions with patients, will help achieve successful long-term treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia in the age of BCR-ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Police Reform Through Data-Driven Management
Authors: Morgan The Honorable Susie , Murphy Danny , Horwitz Benjamin
Published: June 2017

Over a 2-year span, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) transformed from a department struggling to comply with its expansive federal consent decree to one exploring even broader reforms through a data-driven management approach. NOPD believes more than ever in the adage you manage what you measure. NOPD conducts monthly audits of consent decree compliance and distributes the results to hold leadership accountable for implementing reforms. Through frequent audits, NOPD has produced dramatic, swift compliance improvements. Concurrently, NOPD leadership introduced a data-driven management framework that addressed all facets of management: MAX (Management Analytics for Excellence). This article presents the viewpoints of two sides of the consent decree: NOPD and the federal judge overseeing implementation of the consent decree. NOPD and its monitoring partners use MAX’s performance metrics to monitor reform implementation and address areas requiring improvement. This article details how to implement reforms through a data-driven management approach.
Lung Cancer Pathological Image Analysis Using a Hidden Potts Model
Authors: Li Qianyun , Yi Faliu , Wang Tao , Xiao Guanghua , Liang Faming
Published: June 2017

Nowadays, many biological data are acquired via images. In this article, we study the pathological images scanned from 205 patients with lung cancer with the goal to find out the relationship between the survival time and the spatial distribution of different types of cells, including lymphocyte, stroma, and tumor cells. Toward this goal, we model the spatial distribution of different types of cells using a modified Potts model for which the parameters represent interactions between different types of cells and estimate the parameters of the Potts model using the double Metropolis-Hastings algorithm. The double Metropolis-Hastings algorithm allows us to simulate samples approximately from a distribution with an intractable normalizing constant. Our numerical results indicate that the spatial interaction between the lymphocyte and tumor cells is significantly associated with the patient’s survival time, and it can be used together with the cell count information to predict the survival of the patients.