bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review study on using diethyl ether in diesel engines: Effects on fuel properties, injection, and combustion characteristics
Authors: Sezer İsmet
Published: June 2019

This study was compiled from the results of various researches performed on using diethyl ether as a fuel or fuel additive in diesel engines. Three different techniques are used, the reduction of the harmful exhaust emissions of diesel engines. The first technique for the reduction of harmful emissions has improved the combustion by modification of engine design and fuel injection system, but this process is expensive and time-consuming. The second technique is the use of various exhaust gas devices like catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter. However, the use of these devices affects negatively diesel engine performance. The final technique to reduce emissions and also improve diesel engine performance is the use of various alternative fuels or fuel additives. The major pollutants of diesel engines are nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. It is very difficult to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate matter emissions simultaneously in practice. Most researches declare that the best way to reduce these emissions is the use of various alternative fuels i.e. natural gas, biogas, biodiesel, or the use of fuel additives with these alternative fuels or conventional diesel fuel. Therefore, it is very important that the results of various studies on alternative fuels or fuel additives are evaluated together for practice applications. Especially, this study focuses on the use of diethyl ether in diesel engines as fuel or fuel additive in various diesel engine fuels. This review study investigates the effects of diethyl ether on the fuel properties, injection, and combustion characteristics.
Stock Returns and Asymmetric Volatility Spillover Dynamics Between Asian Emerging Markets
Authors: Habiba Umm E , Peilong Shen , Hamid Kashif , Shahzad Farrukh
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the dynamics of volatility spillover among Asian emerging stock markets over the period from 1 January 2002 to 29 December 2017. This study applies extended EGARCH model to estimate the asymmetric volatility spillovers. The findings of this study are interesting. This study finds statistically significant own past volatility spillovers in all selected stock markets. We find bidirectional significant spillovers of volatility in most of the selected markets. Moreover, we find significant asymmetric volatility spillover in all case of stock markets. Furthermore, the findings reveal statistically insignificant volatility spillover from China to India, China to Indonesia, China to Pakistan, Pakistan to China, Pakistan to Indonesia, Pakistan to Korea and Pakistan to Taiwan in this study period. The knowledge of return linkages and volatility spillover amongst Asian emerging financial markets has great implications for global investors, portfolio managers and policymakers.
‘I’m sorry but I can’t take a photo of someone’s capacity being built’: Reflections on evaluation of Indigenous policy and programmes
Authors: McCausland Ruth
Published: June 2019

The Australian Government has recently increased resourcing for evaluation of Indigenous programmes following critical reports by the Australian National Audit Office and Productivity Commission around their failure to significantly reduce Indigenous disadvantage. Evaluation in Indigenous affairs has a long history, although not a consistent or coordinated one. While there is significant knowledge held by those with experience in commissioning and conducting evaluations for Indigenous programmes over a number of decades that could usefully inform current efforts, there has been little research focused on this area. This article outlines the findings of qualitative research about evaluation in Indigenous policy conducted with policymakers, senior public servants, programme managers, researchers and independent evaluation consultants that sought to privilege the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It outlines key themes derived from those interviews relating to the methods, parameters, politics and accountability around government-commissioned evaluation in Indigenous policy and programmes and concludes by canvassing ways that evaluation could better serve the interests of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Evaluation competencies and functions in advertised evaluation roles in Australia
Authors: Alindogan Mark Anthony
Published: June 2019

This study explores the functions of professional evaluators outlined in online job advertisements. A total of 97 job advertisements were reviewed in the study. A content analysis using a Coding Analysis Toolkit developed by Shulman was conducted to identify six main evaluation functions based on the collected data. These functions are (1) evaluation and reporting, (2) providing evaluation advice, (3) evaluation capacity building, (4) communication and engagement, (5) forming partnerships and (6) leading, managing and influencing. These functions were then compared to the Australian Evaluation Society’s (AES) Core Competency Domains. Overall, there is a broad alignment between these functions and the AES Core Competency Domains. However, the analysis shows that the delivery of culturally competent evaluations and evaluation utilisation received no mention in advertised evaluation roles. The delivery of culturally competent evaluation is essential from the perspective of ethics, validity and theory, while the utilisation of evaluation findings is important for the benefit of society.
Understanding Qualitative and Community Indicators of Poverty for National Health Insurance Scheme Exemptions in Ghana
Authors: Aboagye Da Costa , South Jane , Khan Hafiz T. A.
Published: June 2019

The exemptions of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) for poor people in Ghana have not been sufficiently explored. Using a qualitative approach that involved gathering and analyzing viewpoints from the community, this article investigates the factors that are used to determine NHIS exemptions. Focus group discussions and interviews of key informants were conducted during the period (August 2015–August 2016) within the Ashanti and Greater Accra regions in Ghana. Nine focus group discussions were conducted in nine different communities with 72 respondents. Nine key informants including local and national policy makers, civil servants, and local community members were also interviewed. A sampling method was adopted to capture a range of understandings of community indicators of poverty for NHIS exemptions. Community perceptions of the indicators of poverty included interconnected themes of income, employment, education, assets, and social marginalization. The findings highlight contextual and community descriptions associated with exemptions, of which poverty is a predictor, and discovered that to identify the indigent for exemptions based only on income and quantitative measures is not enough. The results are significant for a number of reasons including poor fit with official measures and the neglect of lay perspectives. For practice implications, our findings show that communities should be principal stakeholders for describing the disadvantaged groups that require exemptions.
An Investigation of Black Males in Advanced Placement Math and Science Courses and Their Perceptions of Identity Related to STEM Possibilities
Authors: Flowers Alonzo M. , Banda Rosa M.
Published: June 2019

Given the need to increase Black males’ participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), this study employed a multiple case studies approach to investigate the perceptions of identity to STEM possibilities of Black males who participated in advanced placement and math and science courses. A conceptual framework of self-efficacy and science identity was utilized to examine their perceptions. Three themes that emerged from data analysis included the following: Establishing the Possibilities of a STEM Identity, Self-Efficacy: Conflicting Self-Identity Formation, and Community Support Integral to Positive Self-Identity. The authors offer three recommendations for practitioners to cultivate Black males’ STEM identity and, subsequently, STEM possibilities in the future.
Two Grandmothers, Two Valedictorians, and Four Gifted Grandchildren: The Importance of Context, Personal Narratives, and Opportunity in Talent Development
Authors: Cross Tracy L.
Published: June 2019

This article narrates the stories of two females who were born in the United States at about the same time in the early twentieth century and the influence of context in their talent development. The author points out the importance of providing educational opportunities and information to gifted students from diverse backgrounds.
Making a Difference With Participatory Democracy: An Alternative Vision of Taking Qualitative Research to the Public Realm
Authors: Johnson John M.
Published: June 2019

From many disciplines come the calls for academic researchers and specialists to seek a greater participation in the public sphere. In a mass mediated age, these calls imply a greater participation with mass media sources and operatives. Many of us have had considerable experience with mass media, and the problems and limitations of these relationships are described. More effective strategies for making a public impact are described. These involve making passionate commitments of local organizations and groups, and working with them over many decades, to progressively develop trusting interpersonal relationships with their members, and increasing levels of trust and responsibility.
Power from the Margins: Grassroots Mobilization and Urban Expansions of Civil Legal Rights
Authors: Michener Jamila
Published: June 2019

Many scholars paint a somber picture of the political status of racially and economically marginalized groups in the United States. In particular, seminal studies on cities—places where race and class strikingly intersect—emphasize economic and political elites as primary drivers of urban politics, underscoring the disempowerment of those at the margins. This article offers a different, theoretically instructive perspective. Through a qualitative analysis of two major expansions of the legal right to counsel in civil courts, I describe political processes that afforded race–class subjugated communities pivotal influence over urban policy. I demonstrate how groups that many theories of political science do not expect to have substantive political influence, nonetheless profoundly shaped the course of urban policy development in the civil legal domain. I find an especially crucial role for membership-driven local organizations focused on building equitable community power.
Outcomes of combination therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors in metastatic renal cell carcinoma – A retrospective study
Authors: Jammal Nadya , Pan Eva , Hurwitz Michael , Abramovitz Rebecca B
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a highly vascularized and immunogenic tumor. At the time of this study, there was limited published data on the combination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors and immune checkpoint inhibitors in patients who were heavily pretreated. At our institution, providers have used these combinations in heavily pretreated patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of patients receiving this combination with the primary objectives of assessing duration of therapy and toxicities and a secondary objective of disease progression at six months. We included adult patients with confirmed mRCC receiving combination therapy (immune checkpoint inhibitors/tyrosine kinase inhibitors) any time after January 2015. Electronic medical records were reviewed for pertinent data and follow-up descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

Fifteen patients were on combination immune checkpoint inhibitors/tyrosine kinase inhibitors, with a median of three lines of previous therapy. The median duration of combination therapy was 7.2 months (range: 0.2 to 39.8) with 126 incidences of toxicities. The most frequent toxicity was fatigue (n = 15), followed by diarrhea (n = 8), anorexia (n = 7) and palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (n = 7). Overall, 9 (60%) patients experienced at least one grade 3 or 4 toxicity. Eight of 15 (53%) patients remained on therapy at the six-month mark and did not have progression confirmed by an oncologist. Of the 15 patients, 10 discontinued therapy due to progression, 2 due to intolerable side effects, 2 transitioned to end of life care, and 1 patient was still ongoing at the time of data collection.

Conclusion

Based on this review, it appears that combination tyrosine kinase inhibitors/immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy in pre-treated patients with mRCC is tolerable and beneficial.
Culture, technology, and process in ‘media theories’: Toward a shift in the understanding of media in organizational research
Authors: Hoof Florian , Boell Sebastian K
Published: June 2019

The concept of ‘media’ can provide an anchor point for developing organizational theories about information and communication technologies, materiality, communication, and organizational change. However, to date, organizational research often takes the meaning of the term media for granted. This article therefore explores various conceptions of media, outlining how such theories can be used for advancing the conception of media in organizational research. Using three ideal-typical branches of conceptions of media, we explore key concerns regarding media in existing literature outside of organizational research. First, the culture and power branch problematizes how cultural practices and power structures are inscribed through media; second, the technology and infrastructure branch emphasizes the inherent ‘eigenlogik’ of media technology; and third, the process and change branch explores how existing economic and aesthetic conventions in media persist over time. Using organizational media in general and enterprise social media in particular we discuss how each of these three ideal-typical branches offer pathways for organizational research. Specifically we argue for shifting the use of the term media beyond merely describing tools for communication as media theories offer insights for understanding the long-term consequences of materiality and ontological co-constitution within sociomaterial assemblages.
Video self-modeling, fading, and reinforcement: An effective treatment package for children with selective mutism
Authors: Bork Poling , Bennett Sheila
Published: June 2019

Three children aged 8 with selective mutism were treated with an intervention package that consisted of video self-modeling, stimulus fading, and reinforcement behavioral techniques for up to 8 weeks. Parents, teachers, and the researcher conducted a comprehensive assessment of participants’ verbal behavior across multiple settings and throughout baseline, intervention, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up phases of the study. Findings indicated participants’ verbal communicative behavior increased significantly during post-intervention, and their progress was maintained at 1-month follow-up.
What works and how: Adult learner perspectives on an autism intervention training program in India
Authors: Duggal Chetna , Dua Bakul , Chokhani Ritika , Sengupta Koyeli
Published: June 2019

A significant treatment gap exists in low and middle income countries such as India for children with autism spectrum disorder. The Autism Intervention Training Program, a comprehensive 6-month program for training professionals in transdisciplinary evidence-based practices to address concerns associated with autism spectrum disorder, was piloted in India to address this gap. This study attempted to capture the perspectives of trainees on the effectiveness of andragogical approaches adopted in the Autism Intervention Training Program and the impact of this training on their work. An exploratory qualitative study was conceptualized, and in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 Autism Intervention Training Program trainees. Trainees highlighted the benefits of a blended training format, peer learning, and a responsive, reflective, experiential, and respectful approach to teaching and supervision. The impact of the program was perceived through an increase in trainees’ knowledge and skills, impact on their organizations, and positive outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder and their families. There is a need to develop and document comprehensive, contextualized, and evidence-based training programs for autism spectrum disorder professionals in low and middle income countries. Focusing on andragogical frameworks while conceptualizing and delivering these training programs is underscored, as approaches that promote self-efficacy in learners and enable transformative learning can lead to a cascading impact in resource-constrained settings.
Bilingual memory advantage: Bilinguals use a common linguistic pattern as an aid to recall memory
Authors: Filipović Luna
Published: June 2019

Aims and objectives/purpose/research question:

The aim of this study is to probe for language effects on bilingual episodic memory. The main research question is whether both languages of bilinguals are accessible and used as aids to memory regardless of which language is used for speaking, or whether each language used for verbalization affects memory in a language-specific way.

Design/methodology/approach:

Our methodology involves an experimental elicitation of event verbalizations and recall memory responses to video stimuli by English and Spanish monolinguals and proficient balanced bilinguals whose two languages are kept active throughout the experiment while they are describing what they see in one of the languages.

Data and analysis:

The data analysis shows that there is a main effect of language, that is, the recall was overall more accurate in Spanish-speaking situations than in the English ones. However, the significance of the effect comes exclusively from the comparison between English monolinguals versus the other two groups: Spanish monolinguals and bilinguals. Spanish monolinguals and bilinguals speaking either English or Spanish all had better recall than the English monolingual participants.

Originality:

Language effects on monolingual versus bilingual witness memory are seldom investigated and the current knowledge about bilingual episodic memory in general is very limited.

Significance/implications:

This study informs the theoretical assumptions related to monolingual and bilingual thinking-for-speaking research as well as offering, for the first time, empirical support towards our understanding of how bilinguals proficient in both languages “merge” their linguistic systems when storing information about events they witness in memory regardless of the language used to explicitly describe the event in verbalization.
Multi-objective optimization of water injection in spark-ignition engines using the stochastic reactor model with tabulated chemistry
Authors: Franken Tim , Netzer Corinna , Mauss Fabian , Pasternak Michal , Seidel Lars , Borg Anders , Lehtiniemi Harry , Matrisciano Andrea , Kulzer Andre Casal
Published: June 2019

Water injection is investigated for turbocharged spark-ignition engines to reduce knock probability and enable higher engine efficiency. The novel approach of this work is the development of a simulation-based optimization process combining the advantages of detailed chemistry, the stochastic reactor model and genetic optimization to assess water injection. The fast running quasi-dimensional stochastic reactor model with tabulated chemistry accounts for water effects on laminar flame speed and combustion chemistry. The stochastic reactor model is coupled with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm to find an optimum set of operating conditions for high engine efficiency. Subsequently, the feasibility of the simulation-based optimization process is tested for a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic numerical test case. The newly proposed optimization method predicts a trade-off between fuel efficiency and low knock probability, which highlights the present target conflict for spark-ignition engine development. Overall, the optimization shows that water injection is beneficial to decrease fuel consumption and knock probability at the same time. The application of the fast running quasi-dimensional stochastic reactor model allows to run large optimization problems with low computational costs. The incorporation with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm shows a well-performing multi-objective optimization and an optimized set of engine operating parameters with water injection and high compression ratio is found.
Surfacing assumptions via ‘metaxic’ method: an arts-based method for team fieldwork
Authors: Evans Michelle , Smith Kate
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this article is to present an arts-based method for collaborative research underpinned by the performative turn in ethnography (Denzin, 2003). The article presents the ‘metaxic method’, building on the term metaxis invented by Boal (1995) whereby individuals feel ‘belonging completely and simultaneously to two different, autonomous worlds’ (1995: 43). Before bringing participants into a research engagement using the metaxic method there is preparation work for the research team to do. We present a process derived from Augusto Boal’s ‘Cop in the Head’ theatre game where the ‘play’ is periodically interrupted to seek insight and critical reflection. This research team preparation process is performative and playful, using role to bring alive the frame of performative research in pursuit of surfacing epistemological assumptions. In doing so, researchers have had a prequalitative fieldwork opportunity to experience difference together. It is at this point that the metaxic method can be introduced. This experience is a critical mirroring of theoretical/political commitments and an opportunity, through having a partial experience of ‘other’ to consider the potential collective and community dimensions possible through research.
In-text and rubric-referenced feedback: Differences in focus, level, and function
Authors: Dirkx Kim , Joosten-ten Brinke Desirée , Arts Jorik , van Diggelen Migchiel
Published: June 2019

Rubrics are often used as tools for criteria-based assessments. Although students indicate that they appreciate comments given as feedback which make reference to the rubric and provided in addition to it, there is little information on how this type of feedback actually differs from in-text comments with respect to focus, level, and function of the feedback. The focus refers to three major questions in evaluating students’ understanding of information: Where am I going? How am I going? and Where to next? That is, feedup, feedback, feedforward. The level refers to the level at which feedback is directed. That is, the level of task performance, the level of the process of understanding how to do a task, the regulatory or metacognitive process level, and/or the self or personal level. Finally, the function refers to the type of content of the feedback. For example, feedback can be a question, suggestion, or correction. More information on this issue could better inform the decisions on how to provide written feedback to students on written coursework/assignments. The study described in this article gathered data from almost 1000 feedback instances. The results revealed that about two-thirds of the feedback instances were provided in-text and about one-third were comments which made reference to the rubric and were provided in addition to it. The results show that comments in both modalities are overrepresented by feedback at the task level, but that comments which made reference to the rubric and provided in addition to it contain somewhat more feedforward and process-related comments. The largest differences were found in the function of feedback. Whereas in-text comments ask for clarifications, provide corrections, and ask questions, written comments which made reference to the rubric and are provided in addition to it include mainly affirmations, argumentations, and suggestions. Implications for practitioners are discussed.
The Self-Retaining Barbed Suture for Parenchymal Repair in Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhan Hailun , Huang Chunping , Li Tengcheng , Yang Fei , Cai Jiarong , Li Wenbiao , Mao Yunhua , Zhou Xiangfu
Published: June 2019

Objectives. The warm ischemia time (WIT) is key to successful laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN). The aim of this study was to perform a meta-analysis comparing the self-retaining barbed suture (SRBS) with a non-SRBS for parenchymal repair during LPN. Methods. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library was performed up to March 2018. Inclusion criteria for this study were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational comparative studies assessing the SRBS and non-SRBS for parenchymal repair during LPN. Outcomes of interest included WIT, complications, overall operative time, estimated blood loss, length of hospital stay, and change of renal function. Results. One RCT and 7 retrospective studies were identified, which included a total of 461 cases. Compared with the non-SRBS, use of the SRBS for parenchymal repair during LPN was associated with shorter WIT ( P < .00001), shorter overall operative time ( P < .00001), lower estimated blood loss ( P = .02), and better renal function preservation ( P = .001). There was no significant difference between the SRBS and non-SRBS with regard to complications ( P = .08) and length of hospital stay ( P = .25). Conclusions. The SRBS for parenchymal repair during LPN can significantly shorten the WIT and overall operative time, decrease blood loss, and preserve renal function.
Collective memory and intergenerational transmission in social movements: The “grandparents’ movement” iaioflautas, the indignados protests, and the Spanish transition
Authors: Schwarz Christoph H
Published: June 2019

The iaioflautas movement, which emerged in the course of the indignados protests in Spain in 2011, is one of the few social movements that explicitly organize around a “grandparents’ identity.” This article analyzes the movement against the historical backdrop of the Spanish transición, in particular the characteristic absence of transitional justice and the pacto del olvido—the ‘pact of oblivion’ regarding the political violence of the civil war and the dictatorship. I argue, first, that the emergence of the movement indicates a general shift in the memory debate in Spain, problematizing the memory of transición itself against the backdrop of the crisis. The iaioflautas organize as active historical witnesses to support the younger protesters’ mobilizations, not least by testifying to their historical legacy, that is the struggle for democracy. They thus draw on the hegemonic transition narrative and reframe it at the same time, echoing the indignados’ slogan “Real Democracy Now.” Second, I show that the iaioflautas’ explicit organization around a generational identity on the one hand re-organizes this generational unit of activists that for long had been cast aside from public memory in Spain, while on the other hand it facilitates intergenerational transmission of collective memory and repertoires of contention within the indignados movement. In addition, the concomitant “family narrative” of generativity, that is, of caring for the younger generations, allows addressing a much broader audience, thus adapting to the constraints of the arena, in avoiding the acerbic political divisions that usually characterize an engagement with historical memory in this particular post-civil-war and post-dictatorship context. Third, the iaioflautas offer an example of “remembering hope,” that is, they pass on their own experiences of solidarity, agency, and democratic opportunities in order to encourage the younger generations’ protest and political imaginary.
Protests, Media Coverage, and a Hierarchy of Social Struggle
Authors: Brown Danielle K. , Harlow Summer
Published: June 2019

News coverage is fundamental to a protest’s viability, but research suggests media negatively portray protests and protesters that challenge the status quo (a pattern known as the protest paradigm). This study questions the validity of those claims within the context of digital newspaper coverage, interrogating how topic and region shape coverage. Using a content analysis of coverage from sixteen newspapers in various U.S. market types and regions, this research examines framing and sourcing features in articles about protests. Results suggest media coverage of protests centered on racial issues (discrimination of Indigenous people and anti-Black racism) follows more of a delegitimizing pattern than stories about protests related to immigrants’ rights, health, and environment. A model to understand news coverage of protest based on a hierarchy of social struggle is proposed.
The Modified Hedgehog Technique to Repair Pure Chondral Shear-off Lesions in the Pediatric Knee
Authors: Jeuken R.M. , Vles G.F. , Jansen E.J.P. , Loeffen D. , Emans P.J.
Published: June 2019

Objective

The paediatric knee is prone to pure chondral shear-off lesions due to the developing osteochondral unit. Refixation of the chondral fragment is commonly done using metalwork or absorbable biomaterials. Both fixation methods come with biomaterial-related drawbacks. Earlier work on chondral allografts for cartilage repair in adults has shown successful osteochondral integration when the chondral allograft is treated with multiple incisions and then glued to the subchondral bone using fibrin glue. This is commonly referred to as the “hedgehog technique.” This study investigates the feasibility of a modification of the hedgehog technique in autologous cartilage to repair shear-off lesions in children.

Design

Three consecutive patients (aged 11, 12, and 14 years) with shear-off chondral fragments of 2, 5, and 8 cm2 were treated using this modified hedgehog technique. The calcified side of the chondral fragments were multiply incised and trimmed obliquely for an interlocking fit in the defect site. Fibrin glue and, if indicated sutures, were applied to fix the fragment to the defect. In 1 patient, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair was also performed. Patients were evaluated clinically and by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) up to 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Twelve months after surgery, all patients reported no pain and showed complete return to sport and full range of motion. MRI showed no signs of fragment loosening.

Conclusions

The modified hedgehog technique is a feasible treatment option to repair pure chondral shear-off lesions in the paediatric knee. This was the first time this technique was used in autografting.
Development and Characterization of Acellular Caprine Choncal Cartilage Matrix for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Das Piyali , Rajesh Kanike , Lalzawmliana V. , Bavya Devi K. , Basak Piyali , Lahiri Debrupa , Kundu Biswanath , Roy Mangal , Nandi Samit Kumar
Published: June 2019

Because of poor regenerative capabilities of cartilage, reconstruction of similar rigidity and flexibility is difficult, challenging, and restricted. The aim of the present investigation was to develop cost-effective acellular xenogeneic biomaterial as cartilage substitution. Two novel biometrics have been developed using different chemical processes (Na-deoxycholate + SDS and GndHCl + NaOH) to decellularize caprine (goat) ear cartilage and further extensively characterized before preclinical investigation. Complete cell removal was ascertained by hematoxylin and eosin staining followed by DNA estimation. No adverse effect on extracellular matrix (ECM) was found by quantifying collagen and sulfated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG) content as well as collagen, sGAG and elastin staining. Results showed no drastic changes in ECM structure apart from desired sGAG loss. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed cellular loss and unaltered orientation. Nano-indentation study on cartilage matrices indicated interesting output showing better results among decellularized groups. Increased elastic modulus and hardness indicated better stiffness and more active energy dissipation mechanism due to decellularization. Fluid uptake and retention property remained unchanged after decellularization as analyzed by swelling behavior study. Additionally, acellular materials were confirmed to be nonreactive and nonhemolytic as assessed by in vitro hemocompatibility study. In vivo study (up to 3 months) on rabbits showed no symptoms of graft rejection/ tissue necrosis, established through postoperative histology and biochemical analyses of tissue explants. With regard to size, shape, biomechanics, source of origin and nonimmunogenic properties, these developed materials can play versatile role in biomedical/ clinical applications and pave a new insight as alternatives in cartilage reconstruction.
Changes in metabolites in the brain of patients with fibromyalgia after treatment with an NMDA receptor antagonist
Authors: Fayed Nicolas , Oliván Barbara , Lopez del Hoyo Yolanda , Andrés Eva , Perez-Yus Mari Cruz , Fayed Alicia , Angel Luisa F , Serrano-Blanco Antoni , Roca Miquel , Garcia Campayo Javier
Published: June 2019

The aims of this work were to evaluate whether the treatment of patients with fibromyalgia with memantine is associated with significant changes in metabolite concentrations in the brain, and to explore any changes in clinical outcome measures. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy was performed of the right anterior and posterior insula, both hippocampi and the posterior cingulate cortex. Questionnaires on pain, anxiety, depression, global function, quality of life and cognitive impairment were used. Ten patients were studied at baseline and after three months of treatment with memantine. Significant increases were observed in the following areas: N-acetylaspartate (4.47 at baseline vs. 4.71 at three months, p = 0.02) and N-acetylaspartate+N-acetylaspartate glutamate in the left hippocampus (5.89 vs. 5.98; p = 0.007); N-acetylaspartate+N-acetylaspartate glutamate in the right hippocampus (5.31 vs 5.79; p = 0.01) and the anterior insula (7.56 vs. 7.70; p = 0.033); glutamate+glutamine/creatine ratio in the anterior insula (2.03 vs. 2.17; p = 0.022) and the posterior insula (1.77 vs. 2.00; p = 0.004); choline/creatine ratio in the posterior cingulate (0.18 vs. 0.19; p = 0.023); and creatine in the right hippocampus (3.60 vs. 3.85; p = 0.007). At the three-month follow-up, memantine improved cognitive function assessed by the Cognition Mini-Exam (31.50, SD = 2.95 vs. 34.40, SD = 0.6; p = 0.005), depression measured by the Hamilton Depression Scale (7.70, SD = 0.81 vs. 7.56, SD = 0.68; p = 0.042) and severity of illness measured by the Clinical Global Impression severity scale (5.79, SD = 0.96 vs. 5.31, SD = 1.12; p = 0.007). Depression, clinical global impression and cognitive function showed improvement with memantine. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy could be useful in monitoring response to the pharmacological treatment of fibromyalgia.
Some Complexities of Seeking Access for Ethnographic Research in Health-Care Institutions
Authors: Kowalchuk Lisa
Published: June 2019

A growing body of scholarship reflects on the complexities and challenges of attaining access for ethnographic research. Some of these are particular to formal organizations, including the understudied gatekeeping role of institutional review boards (IRBs) in organizations that provide state services to vulnerable populations. This article examines access challenges encountered in a project to conduct observation and photography of the work routines of nurses in El Salvador’s public health-care system. An examination of the contrasting responses and outcomes of access negotiation with several different sets of authorities in the health-care system reveals that even in large bureaucratic research sites with formally structured gatekeeping roles, rapport developed over time with influential individuals can shape access negotiation outcomes, partly through informal social relationships. The findings also show that that without technically denying access, IRBs may set conditions that effectively make the “research bargain” too costly. Also suggested by the comparative analysis are organizational (hospital) and system (Health Ministry and public health-care system) factors that may make authorities at different levels more or less open, protective, or defensive in their stance toward cooperating with academic researchers. The article concludes by signaling the need for ongoing discussion on what social researchers can expect from IRBs, especially in developing countries.
How targeted therapy disrupts the treatment paradigm for acquired TTP: the risks, benefits, and unknowns
Authors: Mazepa Marshall A. , Masias Camila , Chaturvedi Shruti
Published: June 2019

Insights into immune-mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) pathophysiology have led to novel targeted therapies. Immunomodulatory strategies target anti-ADAMTS13 antibodies: rituximab is effective in inducing responses in refractory/relapsed TTP and increasing relapse-free survival; caplacizumab targets the von Willebrand factor–platelet interaction to hasten platelet count recovery and reduce mortality and TTP-related ischemic events. Bortezomib and recombinant ADAMTS13 are under investigation. This review examines how targeted therapies are disrupting current treatment paradigms to improve outcomes of iTTP.
Stochastic clustering and pattern matching for real-time geosteering
Authors: Wu Mingqi , Miao Yinsen , Panchal Neilkunal , Kowal Daniel R. , Vannucci Marina , Vila Jeremy , Liang Faming
Published: June 2019

We have developed a Bayesian statistical framework for quantitative geosteering in real time. Two types of contemporary geosteering approaches, model based and stratification based, are introduced. The latter is formulated as a Bayesian optimization procedure: The log from a pilot reference well is used as a stratigraphic signature of the geologic structure in a given region; the observed log sequence acquired along the wellbore is projected into the stratigraphic domain given a proposed earth model and directional survey; the pattern similarity between the converted log and the signature is measured by a correlation coefficient; then stochastic searching is performed on the space of all possible earth models to maximize the similarity under constraints of the prior understanding of the drilling process and target formation; finally, an inference is made based on the samples simulated from the posterior distribution using stochastic approximation Monte Carlo in which we extract the most likely earth model and the associated credible intervals as a quantified confidence indicator. We extensively test our method using synthetic and real geosteering data sets. Our method consistently achieves good performance on synthetic data sets with high correlations between the interpreted and the reference logs and provides similar interpretations as the geosteering geologists on four real wells. We also conduct a reliability performance test of the method on a benchmark set of 200 horizontal wells randomly sampled from the Permian Basin. Our Bayesian framework informs geologists with key drilling decisions in real time and helps them navigate the drilling bit into the target formation with confidence.
É possível sobreviver a uma recuperação judicial? evidências em empresas listadas na BM&FBovespa
Authors: Jaroseski Sinara , Andrade Mirray Muneretto de , Eckert Alex , Silva Graciela Bavaresco da , Mecca Marlei Salete
Published: June 2019

A recuperação judicial tem por objetivo viabilizar a superação da situação de crise econômico-financeira da empresa, a fim de permitir a manutenção da fonte produtora, do emprego dos trabalhadores e dos interesses dos credores, promovendo, assim, a preservação da empresa, sua função social e o estímulo à atividade econômica. Desse modo, a efetividade do regime de recuperação judicial é de interesse comum da sociedade. Assim, a presente pesquisa objetivou avaliar o desempenho econômico, financeiro e operacional das companhias de capital aberto, que negociam suas ações na bolsa de valores brasileira e pleitearam a recuperação judicial para superação da situação de crise econômico-financeira. A pesquisa aborda os procedimentos técnicos documentais, os levantamentos bibliográficos, com particularidades de pesquisa qualitativa e objetivos exploratórios, visando proporcionar maior familiaridade com o problema. A partir da análise dos resultados encontrados, foi possível constatar que apenas uma empresa mostrou sinais claros de recuperação da situação de crise econômico-financeira.
Editorial
Authors: Khanna Shivi
Published: June 2019

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Challenges and Opportunities in the .new Millennium - Financial Sector Perspective
Authors: Majmudar Suchint
Published: June 2019

The Indian financial sector has been buffeted by a recent global development in accounting and financial markets. Technology is enabling the financial sector to transfer funds and settle trades across borders in real times and novel financial instruments such as securitisation of debt and derivatives while extending the reach of investment manifold are also resulting in recycling of existing funds. This article examines recent trends in the financial sector and sums up the key issues facing Indian financial professionals.
Challenges and Opportunities in the New Millenium: the Service Sector Beckons
Authors: Majmudar Ankit
Published: June 2019

The Article briefly summarises the development and impact of the services sector in the new economy, with specific reference to its scope and future in the Indian context.
Biogas and Biodiesel: Fuels for the New Millennium
Authors: Prakash Jitendra
Published: June 2019

The rapid depletion of fossil fuels and their adverse effect on the environment have led scientists to look for alternative sources and technologies of energy production. India took the lead in utilising biological wastes for the production of 'biogas' with varied applications like cooking and power generation. South Africa first used transesterified vegetable oil as 'biodiesel' to power vehicles. With the numerous benefits to mankind and environment, the use of biological fuels is gaining momentum throughout the world. With a little more streamlining, biofuels will be soon replacing the existing fuel sources, at the same time helping us to rectify the thoughtless exploitation of the past.
Managing the Supply Chain for Global Success a Case Study of Indian Auto Component Industry
Authors: Jagannathan Lakshmi , Jacob Fatima
Published: June 2019

From a country that sold just a few hundred thousand cars annually a decade ago, over a million cars roll out of Indian factories every year to fuel a vibrant component industry with global quality and technology standards.

McKinsey and Company has predicted that the Indian automobile component industry would grow to a whopping $33-40 billion by 2015, out of which the global outsourcing of components could be to the tune of $20-25 billion! The Indian auto component manufacturers would see an exponential growth in output over the next decade. The industry is growing at a compounded rate of 20-25%, much faster than that of the domestic market (10-14 %). Many consider this growth in exports as just the tip of the iceberg similar to that witnessed by the information technology industry in the early 1990s. The sustained growth of Indian auto component industry can be attributed to many factors, but primarily to efficient management of the supply chain.
Courier Services in India: Concerns for Effective Service Delivery
Authors: Anvekar Sandhya
Published: June 2019

The courier industry in India is like a vital link of communication between persons and corporations meant for individual and industrial benefits. It is an industry worth Rs. 50 billions and is on steady pace of development. More than 2300 courier companies operating in India, it is a challenge for the service provider of courier services to be unique, competent and provide effective service delivery.

An insight into the crucial and critical incidents of service failure and strategizing by closing these failures will ensure effective service deliveries by the courier service providers. A trained and skilled front stage personnel, committed delivery boys/runners and efficient distribution networking can enable the courier service operators to provide failure free effective service delivery.
A Study on Customer Satisfaction Towards Cell Phone With Special Reference to Nokia at Namakkal District
Authors: Eswaran R.
Published: June 2019

In our day today life telecommunication is the most important media for communication. It makes our job easier. This type of communication is very cheaper and also it saves our time. Information can be transferred easily and quickly through this media than other Medias. This kind of communication made people to feel the whole world come in to their hands.
Association Between Nature of Industry and Employee's Perception of Quality of Work Life
Authors: Varadaraj S. , Parthiban V.
Published: June 2019

One of the major problems facing both developing and developed countries is the Quality of Work Life of a vast majority of employees engaged in productive pursuits. This issue is not just one of achieving greater human satisfaction but it also aims at improving productivity, adaptability and overall effectiveness of organisations.
Recent Developments in Housing and Housing Finance
Authors: Eswaran R. , Rajeshkumar R.
Published: June 2019

Housing constitutes an important component and a measure of the socio­economic status of people. It is regarded as a critical sector in terms of policy initiatives and interventions. This is reflected in the efforts of the Government to improve housing and habitat conditions by way of financial allocations in the Five Year Plans and fiscal measures related to housing announced in the Union Budgets.
A Study of Political Styles of Managers in Public & Private Organizations
Authors: Patrick Harold Andrew
Published: June 2019

No organization is devoid of power. The power relationship is the context for political action and encompasses the most basic issues underlying organizational politics. To understand organizational politics played by individuals occupying various positions an analysis of power, coalition, and bargaining in imperative. The study uses Kakabadse (1983) model to find out political style of Indian managers and compare managers working in private & public manufacturing organizations. 80 managers were drawn from lower and middle level management levels. Indian managers' preference of political styles indicates that the preferred styles remain the same irrespective of type of company worked for. Indian Managers are basically Team Coaches followed by Visionary style who are comfortable with criticism, confrontations and conflict. Results indicate the vast difference between what is perceived and what is put into action among Indian managers. When it came to the leadership style adopted it was found that the Participative style was the least adopted style in actual work situation. The results are discussed in the context of Indian manufacturing organizations.