bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Simulations of Typhoon Morakot (2009) Using a Multiply Nested Tropical Cyclone Prediction Model
Authors: Hendricks Eric A. , Jin Yi , Moskaitis Jonathan R. , Doyle James D. , Peng Melinda S. , Wu Chun-Chieh , Kuo Hung-Chi
Published: September 2015

High-impact Typhoon Morakot (2009) was investigated using a multiply nested regional tropical cyclone prediction model. In the numerical simulations, the horizontal grid spacing, cumulus parameterizations, and microphysical parameterizations were varied, and the sensitivity of the track, intensity, and quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) was examined. With regard to horizontal grid spacing, it is found that convective-permitting (5 km) resolution is necessary for a reasonably accurate QPF, while little benefit is gained through the use of a fourth domain at 1.67-km horizontal resolution. Significant sensitivity of the track forecast was found to the cumulus parameterization, which impacted the model QPFs. In particular, the simplified Arakawa–Schubert parameterization tended to erroneously regenerate the remnants of Tropical Storm Goni to the southwest of Morakot, affecting the large-scale steering flow and the track of Morakot. Strong sensitivity of the QPFs to the microphysical parameterization was found, with the track and intensity showing little sensitivity. It is also found that Morakot’s accumulated precipitation was reasonably predictable, with the control simulation producing an equitable threat score of 0.56 for the 3-day accumulated precipitation using a threshold of 500 mm. This high predictability of precipitation is due in part to more predictable large-scale and topographic forcing.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction for long-term physical conditions: A systematic review
Authors: Crowe Marie , Jordan Jennifer , Burrell Beverley , Jones Virginia , Gillon Deborah , Harris Shirley
Published: September 2015

Objective:

To identify whether mindfulness-based stress reduction is effective in improving physical health outcomes for long-term physical conditions.

Method:

A systematic review of the literature (retrieved from MEDLINE, PubMed and PsycINFO).

Results:

Fifteen studies were included in the review. None of the studies assessed as having a low risk of bias demonstrated significant improvements in physical health status although there was some emerging evidence that mindfulness-based stress reduction may be useful in pain conditions. There was some preliminary evidence that it may also be effective in improving primary insomnia and irritable bowel syndrome. Small to moderate effect sizes were also found for asthma, pain, tinnitus, fibromyalgia and somatization disorders.

Conclusion:

Although there is some preliminary support for the use of mindfulness-based stress reduction in physical health conditions, further research is required before it could be considered an effective intervention for improving physical health outcomes.
Explaining the Striking Similarity in Macroeconomic Policy Responses to the Great Recession
Authors: Mandelkern Ronen
Published: September 2015

This article offers an institutional explanation for the strikingly similar configuration of macroeconomic policy responses of advanced capitalist economies to the Great Recession. In recent decades, advanced economies have adopted a common structure of macroeconomic governance, which organizes macroeconomic policymaking around monetary policy operated by autonomous central banks and sets limits on politicians’ policymaking discretion. During the Great Recession, this macroeconomic governance allowed central banks to enact unconstrained monetary expansion and governments to enact constrained fiscal expansion. The argument here is empirically substantiated by focusing at how macroeconomic policies in response to the Great Recession have evolved in Australia and Sweden, as well as by looking at parallel developments in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Antenarratives of organizational change: The microstoria of Burger King’s storytelling in space, time and strategic context
Authors: Boje David M , Haley Usha CV , Saylors Rohny
Published: September 2015

This research extends our understanding of organizational sensemaking through storytelling to highlight complex processes of organizational change in space, time and strategic context. We focus on the concept of antenarratives, how managers’ and other stakeholders’ fragmented speculations regarding futures may legitimate or resist organizational change. Antenarratives are not yet fully-formed narratives, but rather pieces of organizational discourse that help to construct identities and interests. We explain the theoretical relevance of Russian socio-linguist Mikhail Bakhtin’s space and time conceptualizations (chronotopes) for strategic narratives of change, and illustrate how antenarratives play important roles in narrative chronotopes. We relate German philosopher Martin Heidegger’s reasons for being in relation to others (existential ontology) to stakeholders’ and organizational identities, and to antenarrative glimpses in Bakhtin’s chronotopes. Through these theorizations, we contribute to conversations surrounding managerial discourses of organizational change, and discussions on how researchers may analyze antenarratives in relation to stabilized narratives. We use microstoria, or little-story analysis, and the case of Burger King Corporation’s international strategizing, to highlight emergent conflicts and their resolution for sensemaking that includes diverse organizational stakeholders and affects organizational effectiveness.
Recognition and the moral taint of sexuality: Threat, masculinity and Santa Claus
Authors: Hancock Philip
Published: September 2015

This article explores the ways in which a desire for recognition characterizes the work of a particular category of service worker, the semi-professional Santa Claus performer. Employing a series of observations and in-depth, semi-structured interviews, it considers ways in which such work is underpinned by a struggle for recognition based on an exchange of love and social esteem that is immanent to the perceived reality of the performance of the character himself. The discussion focuses on the risk posed to the possibility of this relationship by the attribution to these performers of a tainted identity, one premised on the combination of a debased version of male sexuality and an increasingly prevalent cultural unease surrounding the relationship between children and adults. It concludes by arguing for a broader reconsideration of the concept of taint – particularly moral taint – as a far more fluid and contingent concept than has traditionally been deployed, as well as the value of engaging with the importance of recognition as a conceptual resource for both understanding, and possibly improving, the experiences of the contemporary service worker.
Rethinking the soft skills deficit blame game: Employers, skills withdrawal and the reporting of soft skills gaps
Authors: Hurrell Scott A
Published: September 2015

Soft (e.g. interpersonal and social) skills are receiving ever more attention with employers frequently reporting that employees lack these skills. The ‘blame game’ for these skills deficits is frequently directed at the individual, family or government. Scant attention has been paid to the possibility that people may possess soft skills but decide to withdraw them because of disaffection with their employer. Taking a critical perspective and drawing on three case study establishments, this article finds that some managers blamed soft skills gaps on skills withdrawal. The employee data did not, however, reveal greater employee disaffection in the establishment worst affected by soft skills gaps. Investigation of withdrawal instead revealed more about employees who had left the organizations and the propensity for employers to blame employees for soft skills gaps. The study also affirmed that organizations may be to blame for their soft skills gaps if they do not contextually integrate selection, induction and training practices with their skills needs.
The managerial conversion of senior civil servants: a convenient myth for the French local welfare state?
Authors: Alcaras Jean-Robert , Marrel Guillaume , Marchand Christèle , Nonjon Magali
Published: September 2015

Has New Public Management really been rolled out homogenously across the board? Drawing on research into the viewpoints and practices of a particular category of senior civil servants in France (those in charge of local welfare policy), this article takes a critical look at this assumption of convergence towards NPM. Behind a discursive convergence that remains superficial and partial, the reality tends more towards heterogeneous and contextualized appropriations of New Public Management benchmarks often leading to new forms of bureaucracy. In a context where the position of public officials has been weakened, ‘management’ seems to have been adopted as a source of professional legitimization. By adopting this very useful managerial posture, these civil servants find comfort in perpetuating the myth of convergence.

Points for practitioners

This article presents the results of a comprehensive study into the viewpoints and management practices of the roughly 500 senior civil servants in charge of local welfare policies in the French departments. How do they relate to the managerial vocabulary and management tools, given that their sector is characterized by contradictory reactions to economic and managerial rationales? The renewal of public management to which they contribute cannot be equated to an importation of methods that have shown their worth in the private sector: it seems above all to meet the new requirements on which their professional legitimacy must be built today.
Institutional impact assessment in multi-level systems: conceptualizing decentralization effects from a comparative perspective
Authors: Kuhlmann Sabine , Wayenberg Ellen
Published: September 2015

Comparative literature on institutional reforms in multi-level systems proceeds from a global trend towards the decentralization of state functions. However, there is only scarce knowledge about the impact that decentralization has had, in particular, upon the sub-central governments involved. How does it affect regional and local governments? Do these reforms also have unintended outcomes on the sub-central level and how can this be explained? This article aims to develop a conceptual framework to assess the impacts of decentralization on the sub-central level from a comparative and policy-oriented perspective. This framework is intended to outline the major patterns and models of decentralization and the theoretical assumptions regarding de-/re-centralization impacts, as well as pertinent cross-country approaches meant to evaluate and compare institutional reforms. It will also serve as an analytical guideline and a structural basis for all the country-related articles in this Special Issue.

Points for practitioners

Decentralization reforms are approved as having a key role to play in the attainment of ‘good governance’. Yet, there is also the enticement on the part of state governments to offload an ever-increasing amount of responsibilities to, and overtask, local levels of government, which can lead to increasing performance disparities within local sub-state jurisdictions. Against this background, the article provides a conceptual framework to assess reform impacts from a comparative perspective. The analytical framework can be used by practitioners to support their decisions about new decentralization strategies or necessary adjustments regarding ongoing reform measures.
Evolutionary Divergence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans
Authors: Kittichotirat W. , Bumgarner R.E. , Chen C.
Published: September 2015

Gram-negative facultative Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is an oral pathogen associated with periodontitis. The genetic heterogeneity among A. actinomycetemcomitans strains has been long recognized. This study provides a comprehensive genomic analysis of A. actinomycetemcomitans and the closely related nonpathogenic Aggregatibacter aphrophilus. Whole genome sequencing by Illumina MiSeq platform was performed for 31 A. actinomycetemcomitans and 2 A. aphrophilus strains. Sequence similarity analysis shows a total of 3,220 unique genes across the 2 species, where 1,550 are core genes present in all genomes and 1,670 are variable genes (accessory genes) missing in at least 1 genome. Phylogenetic analysis based on 397 concatenated core genes distinguished A. aphrophilus and A. actinomycetemcomitans. The latter was in turn divided into 5 clades: clade b (serotype b), clade c (serotype c), clade e/f (serotypes e and f), clade a/d (serotypes a and d), and clade e′ (serotype e strains). Accessory genes accounted for 14.1% to 23.2% of the A. actinomycetemcomitans genomes, with a majority belonging to the category of poorly characterized by Cluster of Orthologous Groups classification. These accessory genes were often organized into genomic islands ( n = 387) with base composition biases, suggesting their acquisitions via horizontal gene transfer. There was a greater degree of similarity in gene content and genomic islands among strains within clades than between clades. Strains of clade e′ isolated from human were found to be missing the genomic island that carries genes encoding cytolethal distending toxins. Taken together, the results suggest a pattern of sequential divergence, starting from the separation of A. aphrophilus and A. actinomycetemcomitans through gain and loss of genes and ending with the divergence of the latter species into distinct clades and serotypes. With differing constellations of genes, the A. actinomycetemcomitans clades may have evolved distinct adaptation strategies to the human oral cavity.
Stability characteristics of a nonlinear direct current servo with proportional, integral, derivative controller: comparison with simulation and experimentation
Authors: Bednar Richard
Published: September 2015

The stability characteristics of a rotational position feedback system consisting of a digital proportional, integral, derivative controller, direct current motor and inertia load are presented. The system model incorporates digital-to-analog converter saturation and motor friction deadzone nonlinearities. The feedback system is analyzed for stability using both state-space Lyapunov techniques and frequency domain describing functions. Experimental and simulation results indicate the possibility of both stable and unstable limit cycles, depending on system parameters. The choice of state variables leads to a way of explaining the observed sticking action of the servo due to deadzone friction.
The design of a Probability Bidding Mechanism in electricity auctions by considering trading constraints
Authors: Han Dun , Sun Mei
Published: September 2015

In the electricity trading exchange, we need to consider electricity price, transmission costs, network congestion and technology constraints. Therefore, some electricity trading may be forced to be canceled because of limits on power transmission lines. The most challenging issue is how to make an appropriate auction bidding mechanism in electricity trading. According to the bipartite network and evolutionary game theory with the Paid-as-Bid auction mechanism as research background, we explore a Probability Bidding Mechanism (PBM). The designed mechanism could significantly disrupt the learning process and weaken the unconscious collusion behaviors of generators during the auction process. The simulation results of the proposed mechanism are compared with the High–Low Matching bidding mechanism and the comparison shows that the PBM could minimize the average transaction price and maximize the average trading quantities effectively. Further investigation reveals that the parameter, which is used to adjust trading price, has more influence on generators than purchasers. Some suggestions for reducing the generator’s offer and increasing the market trading quantities are recommended at the end of the paper.
Presidential survival in South America: Rethinking the role of democracy
Authors: Martínez Christopher A
Published: September 2015

Since 1979, one in every six South American presidents has failed to complete his constitutional term. These ‘presidential failures’ occur when elected presidents are forced out of office but without compromising the democratic order. This article seeks to discover the factors that underlie presidential failures through a survival analysis of 65 South American presidencies between 1979 and 2012. We argue that ‘democratic stock’, assessed by taking a historical perspective on democracy, significantly affects presidential survival, a finding which has not been observed in previous studies. It is found that partisan support and democratic stock reduce the hazard of presidential failure. Surprisingly, inflation, executive–legislative power imbalances, party system fragmentation and presidential scandals have no significant effects. These findings offer new evidence for the ‘institutions vs. street’ debate by showing that, when institutional variables are accounted for, the effect of social mobilisations significantly weakens.
Cisplatin‐Induced Ototoxicity and the Effects of Intratympanic Diltiazem in a Mouse Model
Authors: Naples James G. , Parham Kourosh
Published: September 2015

Objective

To evaluate whether the calcium‐channel blocker diltiazem has protective effects against cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity in a mouse model.

Study Design

Original basic science in vivo investigation.

Setting

Academic setting: Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery laboratory at University of Connecticut Health Center.

Subjects

Thirty‐nine female CBA/J mice.

Methods

Pure tone– or click‐evoked auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were recorded in CBA/J mice to determine auditory thresholds. All mice had baseline ABRs recorded. They were then given a single cisplatin bolus (14 mg/kg), followed by 5 consecutive days of intratympanic diltiazem or saline control. Follow‐up thresholds were recorded on days 7, 14, and 21 postcisplatin. Tone‐evoked ABRs evaluated the otoprotective effect of 2‐mg/kg diltiazem in 9 mice, and dose effect was examined in response to click‐evoked ABR with 2‐ or 4‐mg/kg diltiazem in 2 groups of 15 mice.

Results

Saline‐treated ears had significantly elevated tone‐evoked auditory thresholds when compared with diltiazem‐treated ears (P =. 038) on day 7 postcisplatin only. Click‐evoked ABR thresholds were significantly elevated in saline‐treated ears versus diltiazem‐treated ears for the 2‐mg/kg group (P =. 001) and 4‐mg/kg group (P =. 011) on days 7, 14, and 21 postcisplatin.

Conclusion

Intratympanic diltiazem has significant protective effects against cisplatin ototoxicity at 2 and 4 mg/kg. This is the first in vivo study to demonstrate that diltiazem offers a potentially novel therapy for cisplatin‐induced ototoxicity.
Medicolegal Aspects of Iatrogenic Dysphonia and Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Injury
Authors: Ta Jennifer H. , Liu Yuan F. , Krishna Priya
Published: September 2015

Objective

To examine aspects of litigation involving iatrogenic dysphonia and injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve in the adult population.

Study Design

Legal database review.

Setting

Medicolegal judicial system.

Subjects and Methods

Jury verdicts and settlement reports listing voice impairment or recurrent laryngeal nerve dysfunction as a primary injury in adult patients were identified in the Westlaw Database. Reports were examined for plaintiff demographics, defendant specialty, procedure performed, rates of settlements and verdicts, monetary awards, primary plaintiff symptoms, and common allegations.

Results

A total of 123 jury verdict and settlement reports were identified. General surgeons (24%), otolaryngologists (20%), and anesthesiologists (18%) were involved in the majority of cases. The procedure causing the alleged injury was primarily thyroidectomy (34%), followed by intubation (18%) and spinal instrumentation (10%). The majority of cases (70%) were decided in favor of the defendant. Where monetary awards were recorded, settlements and jury verdicts in favor of the plaintiff ranged between $4250 and $3,000,000, with a mean of $788,713. In addition to voice disturbances, complaints of dyspnea and dysphagia were commonly listed alleged injuries. The only factors associated with plaintiff verdicts were general surgery specialty (odds ratio, 6.3; 95% confidence interval, 1.7‐23.2) and claims of loss of consortium (odds ratio, 8.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.2‐60.7).

Conclusion

Dysphonia is a common complication in a number of procedures across multiple specialties. Although the majority of cases are decided in favor or the defendant, payments awarded can be considerable. Awareness of factors involved in these medical malpractice cases can help limit physician liability.
Malignant glomus tumor of trachea: a case report with literature review
Authors: Braham Emna , Zairi Sara , Mlika Mouna , Ayadi-Kaddour Aida , Ismail Olfa , El Mezni Faouzi
Published: September 2015

Glomus tumors of the trachea are extremely rare and generally benign, with very few cases of malignant transformation reported in literature. We present the case of a 74-year-old man explored for cough and dyspnea. Bronchoscopy showed a polypoid mass arising from the posterolateral tracheal wall. Computed tomography demonstrated a mid-tracheal tissular mass obliterating the tracheal lumen. Resection and anastomosis of the trachea were performed. The histological and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with malignant glomus tumor.
Frozen elephant trunk procedure for extensive pneumococcal thoracic aortitis
Authors: Guihaire Julien , Revest Matthieu , Heautot Jean-François , Verhoye Jean-Philippe
Published: September 2015

Infectious arteritis is an insidious condition commonly associated with a long diagnostic delay. We report the management of extensive pneumococcal thoracic aortitis in a 64-year-old woman. The frozen elephant trunk procedure was performed to repair the aortic arch. Prolonged aortic wall cultures were positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae. Late follow-up imaging at 36 months demonstrated no sign of recurrence around the hybrid vascular graft in the thoracic aorta.
Dyadic accuracy and bias in preadolescents’ perceived peer relations
Authors: Morrow Michael T. , Hubbard Julie A. , Sallee Meghann L. , Barhight Lydia R. , Lines Meghan M. , Rubin Ronnie M.
Published: September 2015

The dyadic accuracy and bias of preadolescents’ ( M = 10.13 years) perceived peer relations were examined in relation to their aggression, depressive symptoms, and peer victimization. A racially diverse sample (235 boys and 281 girls) completed peer nominations of perceived and actual peer acceptance and rejection, peer nominations of friendship and peer victimization, and a self-report measure of depressive symptoms. Teachers completed measures of aggression. With higher depressive symptoms, children were more likely to underestimate their peer acceptance and friendship. With higher aggression, children were more likely to overestimate their peer acceptance and friendship but only when they experienced low levels of peer victimization. These findings highlight distinct patterns of dyadic bias associated with preadolescent’s depressive symptoms and aggressive behavior.
Changes in levels of apoptosis in the walls of different segments of great saphenous varicose veins
Authors: Yongbo Xu , Wei Han , Lei Wang , Jianhua Zhao , Tao Wang , Jinyuan Tang , Kun Li , Haibo Chu
Published: September 2015

Objective

Disordered programmed cell death may play a role in the development of superficial venous incompetence. We have determined the number of cells undergoing apoptosis and the alterations in the apoptotic level in the wall of different segments of the great saphenous varicose vein.

Methods

Twenty-one varicose great saphenous veins (VGSVs) (varicose group) and 12 normal great saphenous veins (GSVs) (control group) were collected, and the apoptosis level in the upper, middle, and lower segments were immunohistochemically stained with antibodies (anti-Bax and anti-Bcl-xl). Apoptosis was evaluated by the TUNEL assay and immunofluorescence staining. The morphology of apoptotic cells was observed with an electron microscope.

Results

Quantitative analysis showed that the apoptotic ratios in venous walls (intima and media) of the varicose group were significantly lower than the corresponding regions in the control group (all P < 0.05). A significantly higher apoptotic rates of the venous walls was observed in control group within the upper compared with the lower segment ( P < 0.05). Significantly higher positive proteins expression rates of Bcl-xl/Bax were also detected in the VGSVs compared with the GSVs within the three segments, respectively ( P < 0.01). Electron microscopic observations confirmed that endothelial and smooth muscle cells in varicose and normal vein walls exhibited apoptotic morphologic features, such as fuzzy mitochondrial cristae, medullary changes, and margination of the nuclear chromatin.

Conclusion

VGSV walls were found to have a significant decrease in apoptotic rate compared with that of GSVs. The rate of apoptosis in the intima and media within the upper segment was increased more than the middle and lower segments in the GSVs. Our findings confirm that programmed cell death is down-regulated in primary varicose veins.
Association of polymorphisms near the FOXC2 gene with the risk of varicose veins in ethnic Russians
Authors: Shadrina Alexandra S , Smetanina Mariya A , Sokolova Ekaterina A , Sevost’ianova Kseniya S , Shevela Andrey I , Demekhova Marina Y , Shonov Oleg A , Ilyukhin Evgenii A , Voronina Elena N , Zolotukhin Igor A , Kirienko Alexander I , Filipenko Maxim L
Published: September 2015

Objective

To investigate the association of polymorphisms located near the FOXC2 gene with the risk of varicose veins in ethnic Russians.

Methods

Allele, genotype, and haplotype frequencies were determined in the sample of 474 patients with primary varicose veins and in the control group of 478 individuals without a history of chronic venous disease.

Results

Polymorphisms rs7189489, rs4633732, and rs1035550 showed the association with the increased risk of varicose veins, but none of the observed associations remained significant after correction for multiple testing. Haplotype analysis revealed the association of haplotype rs7189489 C–rs4633732 T–rs34221221 C–rs1035550 C–rs34152738 T–rs12711457 G with the increased risk of varicose veins (OR = 2.67, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence that the studied polymorphisms do not play a major role in susceptibility to varicose veins development in the Russian population.
Diagnostic performance and radiation dose of lower extremity CT angiography using a 128-slice dual source CT at 80 kVp and high pitch
Authors: Kim Jin Woo , Choo Ki Seok , Jeon Ung Bae , Kim Tae Un , Hwang Jae Yeon , Yeom Jeong A , Jeong Hee Seok , Choi Yoon Young , Nam Kyung Jin , Kim Chang Won , Jeong Dong Wook , Lim Soo Jin
Published: September 2015

Background

Multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography is now used for the diagnosing patients with peripheral arterial disease. The dose of radiation is related to variable factors, such as tube current, tube voltage, and helical pitch.

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic performance and radiation dose of lower extremity CT angiography (CTA) using a 128-slice dual source CT at 80 kVp and high pitch in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI).

Material and Methods

Twenty-eight patients (mean, 64.1 years; range, 39–80 years) with CLI were enrolled in this retrospective study and underwent CTA using a 128-slice dual source CT at 80 kVp and high pitch and subsequent intra-arterial digital subtraction angiography (DSA), which was used as a reference standard for assessing diagnostic performance.

Results

For arterial segments with significant disease (>50% stenosis), overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of lower extremity CTA were 94.8% (95% CI, 91.7–98.0%), 91.5% (95% CI, 87.7–95.2%), and 93.1% (95% CI, 90.6–95.6%), respectively, and its positive and negative predictive values were 91.0% (95% CI, 87.1–95.0%), and 95.1% (95% CI, 92.1–98.1%), respectively. Mean radiation dose delivered to lower extremities was 266.6 mGy.cm.

Conclusion

Lower extremity CTA using a 128-slice dual source CT at 80 kVp and high pitch was found to have good diagnostic performance for the assessment of patients with CLI using an extremely low radiation dose.
Systemic Amyloid A Amyloidosis in Island Foxes (Urocyon littoralis)
Authors: Gaffney P. M. , Witte C. , Clifford D. L. , Imai D. M. , O’Brien T. D. , Trejo M. , Liberta F. , Annamalai K. , Fändrich M. , Masliah E. , Munson L. , Sigurdson C. J.
Published: September 2015

Systemic amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis is highly prevalent (34%) in endangered island foxes ( Urocyon littoralis) and poses a risk to species recovery. Although elevated serum AA (SAA) from prolonged or recurrent inflammation predisposes to AA amyloidosis, additional risk factors are poorly understood. Here we define the severity of glomerular and medullary renal amyloid and identify risk factors for AA amyloidosis in 321 island foxes necropsied from 1987 through 2010. In affected kidneys, amyloid more commonly accumulated in the medullary interstitium than in the glomeruli (98% [ n = 78 of 80] vs 56% [ n = 45], respectively; P < .0001), and medullary deposition was more commonly severe (19% [ n = 20 of 105]) as compared with glomeruli (7% [ n = 7]; P = .01). Univariate odds ratios (ORs) of severe renal AA amyloidosis were greater for short- and long-term captive foxes as compared with free-ranging foxes (ORs = 3.2, 3.7, respectively; overall P = .05) and for females as compared with males (OR = 2.9; P = .05). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that independent risk factors for amyloid development were increasing age class (OR = 3.8; P < .0001), San Clemente Island subspecies versus San Nicolas Island subspecies (OR = 5.3; P = .0003), captivity (OR = 5.1; P = .0001), and nephritis (OR = 2.3; P = .01). The increased risk associated with the San Clemente subspecies or captivity suggests roles for genetic as well as exogenous risk factors in the development of AA amyloidosis.
Tactile Toe Agnosia and Percept of a “Missing Toe” in Healthy Humans
Authors: Cicmil Nela , Meyer Achim P. , Stein John F.
Published: September 2015

A disturbance of body representation is central to many neurological and psychiatric conditions, but the mechanisms by which body representations are constructed by the brain are not fully understood. We demonstrate a directional disturbance in tactile identification of the toes in healthy humans. Nineteen young adult participants underwent tactile stimulation of the digits with the eyes closed and verbally reported the identity of the stimulated digit. In the majority of individuals, responses to the second and third toes were significantly biased toward the laterally neighboring digit. The directional bias was greater for the nondominant foot and was affected by the identity of the immediately preceding stimulated toe. Unexpectedly, 9/19 participants reported the subjective experience of a “missing toe” or “missing space” during the protocol. These findings challenge current models of somatosensory localization, as they cannot be explained simply by a lack of distinct representations for toes compared with fingers, or by overt toe-finger correspondences. We present a novel theory of equal spatial representations of digit width combined with a “preceding neighbor” effect to explain the observed phenomena. The diagnostic implications for neurological disorders that involve “digit agnosia” are discussed.
Recognizing Dynamic Faces in Malaysian Chinese Participants
Authors: Tan Chrystalle B. Y. , Sheppard Elizabeth , Stephen Ian D.
Published: September 2015

High performance level in face recognition studies does not seem to be replicable in real-life situations possibly because of the artificial nature of laboratory studies. Recognizing faces in natural social situations may be a more challenging task, as it involves constant examination of dynamic facial motions that may alter facial structure vital to the recognition of unfamiliar faces. Because of the incongruences of recognition performance, the current study developed stimuli that closely represent natural social situations to yield results that more accurately reflect observers’ performance in real-life settings. Naturalistic stimuli of African, East Asian, and Western Caucasian actors introducing themselves were presented to investigate Malaysian Chinese participants’ recognition sensitivity and looking strategies when performing a face recognition task. When perceiving dynamic facial stimuli, participants fixated most on the nose, followed by the mouth then the eyes. Focusing on the nose may have enabled participants to gain a more holistic view of actors’ facial and head movements, which proved to be beneficial in recognizing identities. Participants recognized all three races of faces equally well. The current results, which differed from a previous static face recognition study, may be a more accurate reflection of observers’ recognition abilities and looking strategies.
Do interictal microembolic signals play a role in higher cortical dysfunction during migraine aura?
Authors: Petrusic I , Podgorac A , Zidverc-Trajkovic J , Radojicic A , Jovanovic Z , Sternic N
Published: September 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical impact of interictal microembolic signals (MES) in patients suffering from migraine with higher cortical dysfunction (HCD), such as language and memory impairment, during an aura.

Patients and methods

This study was carried out on 34 migraineurs with language and memory impairment during aura (HCD group), 31 migraineurs with only visual or visual and somatosensory symptoms during aura (Control group I), and 34 healthy controls (Control group II). We used a Doppler instrument to detect microemboli. Demographic data, disease features and the detection of MES between these groups, as well as the predictors of HCD during the aura, were analyzed.

Results

The duration of aura was longer and the frequency of aura was higher among patients with language and memory impairment during aura compared to Control group I. MES was detected in 29.4% patients from the HCD group, which was significantly higher compared to 3.2% in Control group I and 5.9% in Control group II. Regarding the absence or presence of MES, demographic and aura features were not different in the HCD subgroups. A longer duration of aura, the presence of somatosensory symptoms during the aura and the presence of interictal MES were independent predictors of HCD during the aura.

Conclusion

The present findings indicate that HCD and MES are related in patients with migraine with aura. Further research is needed to better understand the exact pathophysiological mechanism.
Arthroscopic Capsular Repair for Symptomatic Hip Instability After Previous Hip Arthroscopic Surgery
Authors: Wylie James D. , Beckmann James T. , Maak Travis G. , Aoki Stephen K.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Management of the hip capsule has been a topic of recent debate in hip arthroscopic surgery. Postoperative instability after hip arthroscopic surgery has been reported and can lead to poor outcomes.

Purpose:

To determine the outcome of patients diagnosed with symptomatic instability after hip arthroscopic surgery at a minimum of 12 months and 24 months after revision surgery for capsular repair.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

In a cohort of approximately 1100 patients who underwent hip arthroscopic surgery, 33 patients (33 hips) developed symptomatic instability requiring a revision surgery. Two patients suffered anterior dislocations following their initial surgery. Radiographs were reviewed to evaluate for acetabular dysplasia. Three patients were lost to follow-up and 10 patients were excluded as they were <1 year out from the revision surgery. A total of 20 patients (18 female, 2 male) completed a preoperative and postoperative modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and Hip Outcome Score (HOS) at a minimum of 12 months. Eleven of these patients had a minimum follow-up of 24 months. All patients filled out a Likert scale of perceived improvement in physical ability at final follow-up.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 29.7 years (range, 15.2-55.5 years). The mean lateral center-edge angle was 25°, and the mean acetabular index was 7° before revision. All patients underwent interportal capsulotomy during the index arthroscopic procedure. After their index arthroscopic procedures, patients had minimal improvement at a mean of 19.1 months postoperatively on the mHHS (from 57.1 to 57.6; P = .423), HOS-Activities of Daily Living (ADL) (from 62.7 to 66.4; P = .260), and HOS-Sports (from 42.0 to 39.1; P = .800). For the patients with a minimum 1-year follow-up after revision surgery (n = 20; mean follow-up, 21.3 months), the mean mHHS (from 57.6 preoperatively to 85.8 at final follow-up; P < .001), HOS-ADL (from 66.4 to 85.7; P < .001), and HOS-Sports (from 39.1 to 79.8; P < .001) all improved significantly. The results were similar when looking at only the patients with a minimum 2-year follow-up after revision surgery (n = 11; mean follow-up, 26.1 months); the mean mHHS (from 56.0 preoperatively to 91.5 at final follow-up; P = .001), HOS-ADL (from 68.3 to 89.9; P = .009), and HOS-Sports (from 35.7 to 87.9; P = .001) all improved significantly. When comparing patients with isolated capsular repair to those with additional procedures performed, there were no differences between the groups (all P > .05). At final follow-up, all but 1 patient had improved overall physical ability levels.

Conclusion:

Revision hip arthroscopic surgery for capsular repair in patients with symptomatic instability after hip arthroscopic surgery provides good functional outcomes at a minimum of 1 and 2 years postoperatively.
Genotoxic and oxidative stress potential of nanosized and bulk zinc oxide particles in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Carmona Erico R , Inostroza-Blancheteau Claudio , Rubio Laura , Marcos Ricard
Published: September 2015

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP) are manufactured on a large scale and can be found in a variety of consumer products, such as sunscreens, lotions, paints and food additives. Few studies have been carried out on its genotoxic potential and related mechanisms in whole organisms. In the present study, the in vivo genotoxic activity of ZnONP and its bulk form was assayed using the wing-spot test and comet assay in Drosophila melanogaster. Additionally, a lipid peroxidation analysis using the thiobarbituric acid assay was also performed. Results obtained with the wing-spot test showed a lack of genotoxic activity of both ZnO forms. However, when both particle sizes were tested in the comet assay using larvae haemocytes, a significant increase in DNA damage was observed for ZnONP treatments but only at the higher dose applied. In addition, the lipid peroxidation assay showed significant malondialdehyde (MDA) induction for both ZnO forms, but the induction of MDA for ZnONP was higher for the ZnO bulk, suggesting that the observed DNA strand breaks could be induced by mediated oxidative stress. The overall data suggest that the potential genotoxicity of ZnONP in Drosophila can be considered weak according to the lack of mutagenic and recombinogenic effects and the induction of primary DNA damage only at high toxic doses of ZnONP. This study is the first assessing the genotoxic and oxidative stress potential of nano and bulk ZnO particles in Drosophila.
The Critique of Capitalism in the Light of Qur’anic Verses
Authors: Eliaçık İhsan
Published: September 2015

This paper argues that the Qur’an must be understood as an anti-capitalist text. The Qur’an contains many verses that declare unequivocally the accumulation of wealth and monopoly ownership, either by the one person or one group, to be highly problematic ethically and socially. Qur’anic verses attend frequently to the issues of ownership and the accumulation of wealth. In the first years of the revelation and particularly before the Prophet’s migration to Mecca, the Qur’an discusses frequently the issue of ownership. Before the migration, the Qur’an taught mainly about the exploitative nature of the existing economic system while, in the post-migration era, the Qur’an laid the foundation of a new system in which the accumulation of wealth and ownership monopoly are central causes of ethical and social degeneration. The Qur’an regards the redistribution of wealth to be both a religious duty and an ethical obligation.
Economics and the Priority of Ethics
Authors: Gorringe Timothy J.
Published: September 2015

This essay suggests (1) that changes in economic practices which we associate with capitalism brought about deep changes in understandings of culture, and especially of Christianity; (2) that, given that capitalism is driving global warming, changes in the way in which we structure the economy, which for many of us have religious roots, will have to be adopted if we are going to survive; (3) that six priorities for an alternative economy may be identified.
Consumerism as Folk Religion: Transcendence, Probation and Dissatisfaction with Capitalism
Authors: Varul Matthias Zick
Published: September 2015

Consumerism will be understood as a ‘folk religion’, as a contemporary everyday way to make sense of and deal with transcendence. Contrary to longstanding critiques I will argue that consumerism also carries an ethical potential that comes into conflict with the results of the capitalist order of production.
Design of a new gravity balanced parallel mechanism with Schönflies motion
Authors: Kang Long , Oh Se-Min , Kim Wheekuk , Yi Byung-Ju
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a new gravity-balanced 3T1R parallel mechanism is addressed. Firstly, structure description, inverse and forward kinematic modeling are performed in detail. Secondly, Jacobian derivation based on screw theory and singularity analysis using Grassmann Line Geometry is performed, and then optimal kinematic design with respect to workspace size, kinematic isotropy and maximum force transmission ratio are conducted. Thirdly, the gravity balancing design using both counterweights and springs is proposed and a prototype of this mechanism is also presented. Results of analysis show that the proposed mechanism has quite a few potential applications.
Calculation of the blank twist angle at processing with planetary turning
Authors: Razumov Mikhail S , Grechukhin Aleksandr N , Gladyshkin Alexey O
Published: September 2015

The work deals with consideration of the technology of forming many-sided outer surfaces with the variable profile of planetary turning. The peculiarities of this technology were detected and the actuality of the research problem was specified. The essence of study lies in the determination of the cutting force’s effect on the blank rigidity. The calculation scheme and mathematical model, which allow studying the cutting forces effect on the rigidity of technological system during processing, were stated. The dependence of blank rigidity on the form of cross section processing with multiple-blade instrument with planetary movement was determined. The mathematical expression of the allowable twist angle under effect of cutting forces on the blank was offered. This study can be applied as the test calculation at projecting of technological rigging and setting modes of cutting at forming of many-sided outer surfaces with variable profile of planetary turning.
Bearing life prognosis based on monotonic feature selection and similarity modeling
Authors: Niu Gang , Qian Fang , Choi Byeong-Keun
Published: September 2015

In data-driven prognosis approach, indicator information plays an important role for reliable prediction. Although lots of researches have been carried out on prognosis algorithms, only few have paid attention on developing an effective method to select ‘good’ degradation indicators. This paper presents a novel strategy to address the problem, which mainly proposes methods of monotonic feature selection using rank mutual information, and similarity-based modeling for remaining life estimation. The proposed system is demonstrated based on open source data of bearing life cycle. The experiment results show that satisfactory prognostic performance can be obtained with advantages of simplicity, accuracy and generality.
Constructing a representative sample of out-of-care HIV patients from a representative sample of in-care patients
Authors: Xia Qiang , Neaigus Alan , Bernard Marie A , Raj-Singh Shavvy , Shepard Colin W
Published: September 2015

Individuals infected with HIV who are out of care are at a higher risk of HIV-related morbidity and mortality. It has been difficult to recruit a representative sample of out-of-care patients for epidemiological studies. Using a novel weighting method, we constructed a representative sample of out-of-care HIV patients from a representative sample of in-care patients. In-care patients were weighted based on the probability of receiving care during the study period and the probability of selection to participate in the study, and out-of-care patients were represented by those who were previously out of care and recently returned. The method can be used in other patient populations, if every patient in the population has a known, non-zero probability of receiving care and a known, non-zero probability of participating in the study.
Correlates of HIV infection among street-based and venue-based sex workers in Vietnam
Authors: Le Thuy TC , Nguyen Quoc C , Tran Ha TT , Schwandt Michael , Lim Hyun J
Published: September 2015

Summary

Commercial sex work is one of the driving forces of the HIV epidemic across the world. In Vietnam, although female sex workers (FSWs) carry a disproportionate burden of HIV, little is known about the risk profile and associated factors for HIV infection among this population. There is a need for large-scale research to obtain reliable and representative estimates of the measures of association. This study involved secondary data analysis of the ‘HIV/STI Integrated Biological and Behavioral Surveillance’ study in Vietnam in 2009–2010 to examine the correlates of HIV among FSWs. Data collected from 5298 FSWs, including 2530 street-based sex workers and 2768 venue-based sex workers from 10 provinces in Vietnam, were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. HIV prevalence among the overall FSW population was 8.6% (n = 453). However, when stratified by FSW subpopulations, HIV prevalence was 10.6% (n = 267) for street-based sex workers and 6.7% (n = 186) for venue-based sex workers. Factors independently associated with HIV infection in the multivariate analysis, regardless of sex work types, were injecting drug use, high self-perceived HIV risk, and age ≥ 25 years. Additional factors independently associated with HIV risk within each FSW subpopulation included having ever been married among street-based sex workers and inconsistent condom use with clients and having sex partners who injected drugs among venue-based sex workers. Apart from strategies addressing modifiable risk behaviours among all FSWs, targeted strategies to address specific risk behaviours within each FSW subpopulation should be adopted.