bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La prévention, point commun de toutes les pratiques audiologiques
Authors: Meyer-Bisch Christian
Published: August 2017

Chacun de nous a une conscience intuitive ou acquise de ce qu’est la prévention, cependant, il nous est
bien diffi cile de donner une défi nition suffi samment précise de ce concept. La prévention routière, celle
contre le vol, l’incendie, ou encore la déconfi ture fi nancière… nous sont familières. Leur point commun
est l’action destinée à empêcher la survenue d’un dommage, à lutter contre ses conséquences. C’est
précisément l’objectif des pratiques audiologiques dans leur diversité.
Sideways force due to coupled kink modes in tokamaks
Authors: Mironov D. V. , Pustovitov V. D.
Published: August 2017

The paper is devoted to calculation of the sideways force on the vacuum vessel wall in tokamaks at the early stage of disruptions before possible appearance of the halo currents. The theory developed so far predicts quite a large force due to a single-helicity kink mode. This concept is revisited here. It is demonstrated that the existing single-mode models are incompatible with the natural requirement that the sideways force on the plasma must be practically zero. The latter can be satisfied by incorporating a secondary coupled mode, which is the main new element here compared to the earlier analytical approaches. With this difference, the derivations are performed in the standard cylindrical model that is widely used in the resistive wall mode studies. The resistive wall effects are accounted for as determining the wall reaction on the plasma-driven perturbations. The derived expressions explicitly reveal the sideways force dependence on γτw with a maximum at γτw=O(1), where γ is the kink growth rate and τw is the resistive wall time. It is proved that the amplitude of the sideways force produced by the kink modes must be much smaller than expected from the existing scalings.
Accurate gas-phase structure ofpara-dioxane by fs Raman rotational coherence spectroscopy andab initiocalculations
Authors: Den Takuya , Menzi Samuel , Frey Hans-Martin , Leutwyler Samuel
Published: August 2017

p-Dioxane is non-polar, hence its rotational constants cannot be determined by microwave rotational coherence spectroscopy (RCS). We perform high-resolution gas-phase rotational spectroscopy of para-dioxane-h8 and -d8 using femtosecond time-resolved Raman RCS in a gas cell at T = 293 K and in a pulsed supersonic jet at T∼130 K. The inertial tensor of p-dioxane-h8 is strongly asymmetric, leading to a large number of asymmetry transients in its RCS spectrum. In contrast, the d8-isotopomer is a near-oblate symmetric top that exhibits a much more regular RCS spectrum with few asymmetry transients. Fitting the fs Raman RCS transients of p-dioxane-h8 to an asymmetric-top model yields the ground-state rotational constants A0 = 5084.4(5) MHz, B0 = 4684(1) MHz, C0 = 2744.7(8) MHz, and (A0 + B0)/2 = 4884.5(7) MHz (±1σ). The analogous values for p-dioxane-d8 are A0 = 4083(2) MHz, B0 = 3925(4) MHz, C0 = 2347.1(6) MHz, and (A0 + B0)/2 = 4002.4(6) MHz. We determine the molecular structure with a semi-experimental approach involving the highly correlated coupled-cluster singles, doubles and iterated triples method and the cc-pCVXZ basis set series from double- to quadruple-zeta (X = D, T, Q). Combining the calculated vibrationally averaged rotational constants A0calc(X),B0calc(X),C0calc(X) for increasing basis-set size X with non-linear extrapolation to the experimental constants A0exp,B0exp,C0exp allows to determine the equilibrium ground state structure of p-dioxane. For instance, the equilibrium C–C and C–O bond lengths are re(CC) = 1.5135(3) Å and re(CO) = 1.4168(4) Å, and the four axial C–H bond lengths are 0.008 Å longer than the four equatorial ones. The latter is ascribed to the trans-effect (anomeric effect), i.e., the partial delocalization of the electron lone-pairs on the O atoms that are oriented trans, relative to the axial CH bonds.
From quantum stochastic differential equations to Gisin-Percival state diffusion
Authors: Parthasarathy K. R. , Usha Devi A. R.
Published: August 2017

Starting from the quantum stochastic differential equations of Hudson and Parthasarathy [Commun. Math. Phys. 93, 301 (1984)] and exploiting the Wiener-Itô-Segal isomorphism between the boson Fock reservoir space Γ(L2(R+)⊗(Cn⊕Cn)) and the Hilbert space L2(μ), where μ is the Wiener probability measure of a complex n-dimensional vector-valued standard Brownian motion {B(t),t≥0}, we derive a non-linear stochastic Schrödinger equation describing a classical diffusion of states of a quantum system, driven by the Brownian motion B. Changing this Brownian motion by an appropriate Girsanov transformation, we arrive at the Gisin-Percival state diffusion equation [N. Gisin and J. Percival, J. Phys. A 167, 315 (1992)]. This approach also yields an explicit solution of the Gisin-Percival equation, in terms of the Hudson-Parthasarathy unitary process and a randomized Weyl displacement process. Irreversible dynamics of system density operators described by the well-known Gorini-Kossakowski-Sudarshan-Lindblad master equation is unraveled by coarse-graining over the Gisin-Percival quantum state trajectories.
Spin-wave excitations in the SDW state of iron pnictides: A comparison between the roles of interaction parameters
Authors: Singh Dheeraj Kumar
Published: August 2017

We investigate the roles of interaction parameters in the spin-wave excitations of the (π,0) ordered magnetic state within a five-orbital tight-binding model for iron pnictides. To differentiate between the roles of intraorbital Coulomb interaction (U) and Hund's coupling (J), we focus on the self-consistently obtained mean-field spin-density wave state with a fixed magnetic moment obtained by using different combinations of interaction parameters. We find that J is crucial for the description of various experimentally observed characteristics of the spin-wave excitations including energy-dependent behavior, spin-wave spectral weight distribution, and anisotropy. In particular, J at the higher end of the range of various theoretical and experimental estimates (J∼U/4) is required to explain the sharp and well-defined spin-wave dispersion in most part of the high-symmetry directions. Moreover, a similar value is also needed for the spectral weight to be concentrated near energy ≳200 meV.
Electrometer with sub-attoampere current load
Authors: Graf Paul , Flebbe Meike , Utzat Detlef , Nienhaus Hermann , Möller Rolf
Published: August 2017

By cooling a conventional junction field-effect transistor below 150 K, a simple and versatile electrometer with extremely high impedance can be realized. At operating condition, the leakage current to the gate amounts to a few hundredths of an attoampere. The electrometer can be used from DC up to a frequency of 10 kHz. Without reduction of the bandwidth, a sensitivity of a few μV is obtained. Working at low frequencies, currents as low as a few attoamperes can be detected. If the input voltage is out of the operational range, the forward current or the Zener current of the gate junction protects the transistor against destructive charging.
Visual quantification of Hg on a microfluidic paper-based analytical device using distance-based detection technique
Authors: Cai Longfei , Fang Yanling , Mo Yuanhui , Huang Yongshi , Xu Chunxiu , Zhang Zhen , Wang Maoxian
Published: August 2017

We presented a distance-based detection method for visual quantification of mercury ions on a microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD). Dithizone in NaOH solution was used as chromogenic reagent and deposited onto paper channel delimited by hydrophobic wax barrier. Reactions happened between mercury ions and dithizone to form an insoluble colored complex, producing colored precipitate on the paper channel. The length of colored precipitate could be readily measured using the printed ruler along each device. The length of precipitate increase linearly with the mercury concentrations, mercury in sample solution could be quantified by measuring the length of the colored precipitate. Being free of any electronic instruments, this method has the advantages of portability, ease of use, low cost and disposability. This presented method was used to detect mercury ions in a synthetic sample, demonstrating its potential in on-site and real time analysis.
Modelling reduced coastal eutrophication with increased crop yields in Chinese agriculture
Authors: Li Ang A. , Strokal Maryna M. , Bai Zhaohai Z. H. , Kroeze Carolien C. , Ma Lin L. , Zhang Fusuo F. S.
Published: August 2017

Eutrophication is a serious problem in Chinese rivers and seas, largely caused by increased nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses from agriculture. Chinese agriculture is known to be nutrient inefficient. Previous studies showed that fertiliser use can be reduced while increasing yields in the so-called Double High Agriculture (DHA) program. We simulated the effects of improved nutrient management on N and P export by rivers in China in 2050 and the associated coastal eutrophication using the Global Nutrient Export from WaterSheds 2 (NEWS 2) model. Four scenarios were developed: (1) improved practice (IP), assuming an approximate 20% decrease in synthetic fertiliser use and a 15% increase in crop yields relative to a reference scenario; (2) integrated soil-crop systems management (ISSM), assuming a 30% decrease in synthetic fertilisers and a 30% increase in crop yields; (3) IP-MR, with assumptions as for the IP scenario as well as efficient manure recycling (MR); and (4) ISSM-MR, with assumptions as for the ISSM scenario in addition to efficient MR. The results indicate that reducing inputs of synthetic fertilisers alone (IP and ISSM scenarios) may reduce river export of N and P by <15%. The scenarios also accounting for improved manure management (MR) are more effective, and reduce N and P inputs to rivers by 10–35%.
When stylistic features are overlooked in translation
Authors: Al-Mansoob Huda
Published: August 2017

If a literary translator wishes to produce a rewarding and successful translation, his main focus should be not only on content but also on the stylistic manipulation of the text. This paper considers how overlooking the writer’s stylistic varieties affects the quality of translation, rendering the story questionable. Problems related to translating the present tense within a past narrative and reported speech, drawn from Leech and Short (1981, 2004), will be discussed. The textual illustrations will be taken from Mohammed Abdul-Wali’s representative collection They Die Strangers (1966) in English (2001), which was published by the Center for Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. The argument is potentially helpful to the study of stylistics and translation studies as a whole.
Identifying political and ideological bias in translated newspaper articles
Authors: Bánhegyi Mátyás
Published: August 2017

Translation can serve the purposes of gaining, maintaining and even abusing political power in the interests of certain political groups. In order to identify political manipulation in translated texts, a text linguistics based tool called Political Bias Screener has been developed, which includes superstructure and macrostructure analysis, critical discourse analysis and political mass communication related theories. This article describes the most relevant theoretical foundations and the component models of the Screener, investigates its validity and reliability and introduces the most important research findings obtained with its help. The findings show possible tendencies of translator behaviour and are transferable to other research fields in Translation Studies.
La créativité issue de l’intégration conceptuelle dans le cas de la traduction transitoire vers la langue acquise
Authors: Shao Wei
Published: August 2017

Un grand défi à relever par les étudiants pendant la traduction vers la langue B est de reformuler le message de manière pertinente. Le présent article vise à expliquer, à la lumière de la théorie BT proposée par Fauconnier et Turner, ce processus cognitif dans la perspective de l’intégration conceptuelle. A travers les exemples de traduction du chinois en français, nous essayons de démontrer d’une part que la relation vitale est nécessaire à la capture du sens pertinent, d’autre part que la structure émergente est souvent source de créativité en reformulation vers la langue acquise.
Representations of black people in the Slovenian translations of Karl May’s novels
Authors: Trupej Janko
Published: August 2017

The article discusses how black people were portrayed in the Slovenian translations of the novels Winnetou, Old Surehand and Der Schatz im Silbersee, which have all been translated into Slovenian several times; the analysis thus reveals how translation strategies have changed over the decades. The comparison shows that the strategies in translations published in the 1930s were somewhat different from those in the post-World War II period, when the Slovenian territory was part of socialist Yugoslavia; because of the unacceptability of racist views during the socialist period, some racist passages of the original texts were censored in the translations. A substantial amount of neutralization of pejorative racial terminology occurred in both pre- and post-War translations, and translators in both eras also used similar strategies for translating black people’s sociolect. The interventions in the translations have somewhat affected how the translated works can be interpreted.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of laser welded joints between 2198/2060 Al–Li alloys
Authors: Liu Fencheng , Zhou Baosheng , Mao Yuqing , Huang Chunping , Chen Yuhua , Wang Zhitai
Published: August 2017

Dissimilar Al–Li alloys (2198 and 2060) were laser welded without the addition of filler material. The effects of welding parameters on the formation of the welded joints, microstructure evolution, solute segregation, porosity and their relationships with the mechanical properties of the joint were investigated. It was found that reducing the weld heat input can effectively prevent grain coarsening, while decreasing porosity and reducing the tendency for hot cracking, thereby enhancing the properties of the joint. The dissolution of precipitates such as the T1 phase and θ′ phase in the base metal, and the variations in Cu and Mg content between grain interiors and boundaries, resulted from solute segregation during welding, leading to reductions in the strength of the weld.
Experimental and thermomechanical analysis of friction stir welding of poly(methyl methacrylate) sheets
Authors: Aghajani Derazkola H. , Simchi Abdolreza
Published: August 2017

In the present work, the feasibility of friction stir welding (FSW) of poly(methyl methacrylate) sheets was studied experimentally and theoretically by employing thermomechanical simulations. The effect of processing parameters including tool plunge depth, tilt angle, tool rotational speed ( w), and transverse velocity ( v) was investigated to determine suitable conditions to attain sound and defect-free joints. It is shown that a low tool plunge depth of 0.2 mm and a tilt angle of 2° provide suitable material flow to gain sound joints. By controlling the heat input into stir zone by increasing the tool rotational speed and decreasing linear velocity, the formation of defects can be minimised. Mechanical examinations in both longitudinal (LS) and transverse (TS) directions indicate that the highest joint strength of 57 MPa (for LS) and 42 MPa (for TS) are obtained at processing conditions of w = 25 mm min−1 and v = 1600 rev min−1. The measured tensile strengths are 81 and 60% of the base polymer, respectively.
Judicial Behavior under Austerity: An Empirical Analysis of Behavioral Changes in the Portuguese Constitutional Court, 2002–2016
Authors: Coroado Susana , Garoupa Nuno , Magalhães Pedro C.
Published: August 2017

The austerity policies pursued in several countries during the Eurozone crisis began to call attention to the role played by courts as relevant actors in the context of budgetary and financial stress. The case of the Portuguese Constitutional Court has often been singled out in national and international forums as one characterized by particularly intense activism in this respect. Allegedly, political conflict around austerity policies and the demand for their judicial review had fundamentally changed the role of the Portuguese Constitutional Court and the behavior of its judges. However, after examining these claims empirically, we find that, when properly assessed with scrutiny of comparable legislation in other periods, the judicial behavior on austerity policies exhibits a much less exceptional pattern than often argued. Constitutional review in Portugal seems to respond to institutional arrangements (i.e., those fostering a central role for ideological preferences and party loyalty) and not to specific business cycles.
Legislative Responses to Unconstitutionality: A View from the States
Authors: Bosworth Matthew H.
Published: August 2017

This article contributes to literature on legislative-court relations by incorporating the states. Pickerill (2004) examined congressional responses to court rulings declaring statutes unconstitutional, classifying responses into three categories—amending, repealing, or doing nothing. I assembled a list of all Minnesota, Michigan, and Wyoming statutes declared unconstitutional from 1940 to 2008 by state or federal courts. I then determined the legislature’s response. I find unexpected differences in state responsiveness, and between the states and Congress. Also, state legislatures are more likely to respond to a ruling of unconstitutionality from their own courts than from the federal courts.
Obama’s Judicial Legacy: The Final Chapter
Authors: Slotnick Elliot , Schiavoni Sara , Goldman Sheldon
Published: August 2017

This article looks at the appointment and confirmation politics of President Obama’s nominees during the 114th Congress in which unprecedented obstruction and delay of Obama's nominees including the Supreme Court nomination of Merrick Garland occurred. This is placed within the overall context of Obama’s impact on the judiciary. The demographic portrait of the Obama judiciary is sketched with special attention to the historic record of diverse nontraditional appointees. We conclude with a look at what lies ahead with the Trump administration and judicial appointments/confirmation.
Electron emission in ionization of bromouracil by fast bare carbon ions
Authors: Roy Chowdhury Madhusree , Bhattacharjee S. , Bagadia C. , Tribedi Lokesh C.
Published: August 2017

Synopsis

Double differential cross sections (DDCS) of the secondary electrons emitted from a vapor jet of bromouracil in collision with 42 MeV bare carbon ions have been measured for different forward and backward emission angles over a wide energy range. The DDCS for bromouracil were compared with that of uracil measure earlier. An unusually large increase in electron emission cross section have been observed for bromouracil.
Role of acceleration in the expansion of the universe and its influence on an early-universe modified version of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle
Authors: Beckwith Andrew W
Published: August 2017

From first principles, we examine what adding acceleration does, and does not do, as to an early-universe modified version of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. In doing so, we examine a Friedmann equation for the evolution of the scale factor, using two cases explicitly—when the acceleration of the expansion of the scale factor is kept in and when it is out—and the intermediate case of when the acceleration and scale factors are important but not dominant. In doing so we tie this discussion into earlier work done on the HUP.
Estimating cod egg developmental stage based on DNA concentration
Authors: Espeland Sigurd Heiberg , Sannæs Hanne
Published: August 2017

Pelagic egg surveys are commonly used to map Atlantic cod spawning areas in the northeastern Atlantic. However, a sampling location may not necessarily indicate a spawning location, because more developed eggs may have drifted long distances in coastal currents. Newly spawned eggs have only a few embryonic cells, whereas eggs in later developmental stages have progressively larger numbers of cells and hence greater amounts of DNA. The progression through developmental stages largely depends on temperature, which influences cell division and growth. Preservation of the eggs for later analysis presents logistical dilemmas. Preservation in ethanol is suitable for DNA extraction but obscures developmental stage, as the eggs shrink and turn opaque. On the other hand, preservation in formaldehyde retains visual characteristics, but this method limits the ability to extract intact DNA. Here we report a method to estimate developmental stages in Atlantic cod eggs by assaying the amount of DNA from eggs preserved in ethanol. We used a correlation between the amount of DNA in an egg and its embryonic developmental stage in samples from western Norway and used this correlation to estimate developmental stages of eggs sampled in northern Norway.
Overlapping Surgeries Are Not Associated With Worse Patient Outcomes: Retrospective Multivariate Analysis of 14 872 Neurosurgical Cases Performed at a Single Institution
Authors: Bohl Michael A , Mooney Michael A , Sheehy John P , Cantwell Abigail M , Chang Steve W , Chapple Kristina M , Kakarla U Kumar , Spetzler Robert F
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Overlapping surgeries have recently become a controversial topic.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of overlapping surgeries on patient outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all neurosurgical procedures performed at a single institution from July 2013 to May 2016 was conducted. Variables extracted from the electronic medical records included sex, age, procedure type, resident years of training, evening case, emergency case, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Score, illness severity, mortality risk, and percentage of case overlap. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for the following primary outcomes: procedure length, length of hospital stay, return to operating room (OR), disposition upon discharge, hospital readmission, and mortality. Separate analyses were performed for overlap thresholds of 0%, 20%, 50%, and 100%.

RESULTS

A total of 14 872 cases were performed during the study period, and all were included in the statistical analyses. Univariate analysis showed a benefit for overlapping surgeries in terms of hospital length of stay, return to OR, and disposition status (all P < .001). No difference was found for hospital readmission or mortality. Overlapping surgeries were significantly longer and were staffed by more senior residents (P < .001). Multivariate analysis showed a benefit for overlapping surgeries, or no difference, for all the measured outcomes except procedure length.

CONCLUSION

These results reject the hypothesis that overlapping surgeries are predictive of worse outcomes. When considered in the context of the current debate regarding overlapping surgeries, these results argue against claims that overlapping surgeries are dangerous or harmful to patients.
Cortical Reorganization in Dual Innervation by Single Peripheral Nerve
Authors: Zheng Mou-Xiong , Shen Yun-Dong , Hua Xu-Yun , Hou Ao-Lin , Zhu Yi , Xu Wen-Dong
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Functional recovery after peripheral nerve injury and repair is related with cortical reorganization. However, the mechanism of innervating dual targets by 1 donor nerve is largely unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the cortical reorganization when the phrenic nerve simultaneously innervates the diaphragm and biceps.

METHODS

Total brachial plexus (C5-T1) injury rats were repaired by phrenic nerve–musculocutaneous nerve transfer with end-to-side (n = 15) or end-to-end (n = 15) neurorrhaphy. Brachial plexus avulsion (n = 5) and sham surgery (n = 5) rats were included for control. Behavioral observation, electromyography, and histologic studies were used for confirming peripheral nerve reinnervation. Cortical representations of the diaphragm and reinnervated biceps were studied by intracortical microstimulation techniques before and at months 0.5, 3, 5, 7, and 10 after surgery.

RESULTS

At month 0.5 after complete brachial plexus injury, the motor representation of the injured forelimb disappeared. The diaphragm representation was preserved in the “end-to-side” group but absent in the “end-to-end” group. Rhythmic contraction of biceps appeared in “end-to-end” and “end-to-side” groups, and the biceps representation reappeared in the original biceps and diaphragm areas at months 3 and 5. At month 10, it was completely located in the original biceps area in the “end-to-end” group. Part of the biceps representation remained in the original diaphragm area in the “end-to-side” group. Destroying the contralateral motor cortex did not eliminate respiration-related contraction of biceps.

CONCLUSION

The brain tends to resume biceps representation from the original diaphragm area to the original biceps area following phrenic nerve transfer. The original diaphragm area partly preserves reinnervated biceps representation after end-to-side transfer.
Double-Barrel Superficial Temporal Artery-Middle Cerebral Artery Bypass: Can It Be Considered “High-Flow?”
Authors: Cherian Jacob , Srinivasan Visish , Kan Peter , Duckworth Edward AM
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, superficial temporal artery-middle cerebral artery (STA-MCA) bypass uses one STA branch. Its augmentation of flow has classically been described as “low flow.” In a double-barrel STA-MCA bypass, however, both branches of the STA are utilized. Here we hypothesize that this should not be considered “low flow.”

OBJECTIVE

To review quantitative flow data from our cases and investigate the impact of double-barrel STA-MCA bypass on total flow augmentation, and to assess whether double-barrel STA-MCA bypass might be useful in situations that traditionally demand more complex bypass strategies.

METHODS

Intraoperative flow probe measurements from STA-MCA bypass cases were retrospectively tabulated and compared. Cut flow and bypass flow measurements were, respectively, taken before and after completion of anastomoses. The higher value was labeled best observed flow (BOF).

RESULTS

We identified 21 STA-MCA bypass cases with available intraoperative flow probe measurements, of which 17 utilized double-barrel technique. Only 1 STA branch was available in 4 cases. Significantly higher average BOF was seen when utilizing 2 STA branches (69 vs 39 cc/min, P < .001). A majority (9/17) of double-barrel bypasses provided BOF ≥ 65 cc/min (120 cc/min maximum). The single branch bypass maximum BOF was 40 cc/min.

CONCLUSION

Double-barrel bypass technique significantly enhances STA-MCA flow capacity and may be useful in situations in which a high-flow bypass is needed. The 2 efferent limbs allow flexibility in distributing flow across separate at-risk territories. The method compares favorably to other descriptions of high-flow bypass without the morbidity of graft harvest or an additional cervical incision.
A Call for the Transformation of the South African Insurance Industry: An Analysis of the Insurance Bill 2016
Authors: Dyani-Mhango Ntombizozuko
Published: August 2017

This article comments on the South African Insurance Bill, 2016. It examines the constitutional obligations imposed on the legislature when enacting legislation using existing jurisprudence, it argues that the Insurance Bill is unconstitutional to an extent that it omits to incorporate, a transformation policy that is designed to transform the insurance industry and address the economic imbalances of the past. The article recommends that Parliament should include a clear transformation objective in the Insurance Bill.
Population Structure of Pseudocercospora fijiensis in Costa Rica Reveals Shared Haplotype Diversity with Southeast Asian Populations
Authors: Saville Amanda , Charles Melodi , Chavan Suchitra , Muñoz Miguel , Gómez-Alpizar Luis , Ristaino Jean Beagle
Published: August 2017

Pseudocercospora fijiensis is the causal pathogen of black Sigatoka, a devastating disease of banana that can cause 20 to 80% yield loss in the absence of fungicides in banana crops. The genetic structure of populations of P. fijiensis in Costa Rica was examined and compared with Honduran and global populations to better understand migration patterns and inform management strategies. In total, 118 isolates of P. fijiensis collected from Costa Rica and Honduras from 2010 to 2014 were analyzed using multilocus genotyping of six loci and compared with a previously published global dataset of populations of P. fijiensis. The Costa Rican and Honduran populations shared haplotype diversity with haplotypes from Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Americas but not Africa for all but one of the six loci studied. Gene flow and shared haplotype diversity was found in Honduran and Costa Rican populations of the pathogen. The data indicate that the haplotypic diversity observed in Costa Rican populations of P. fijiensis is derived from dispersal from initial outbreak sources in Honduras and admixtures between genetically differentiated sources from Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.
Technique for Placement of Peri-Implant Antibiotics Using Antibiotic Putty
Authors: Firoozabadi Reza , Miranda Suzette , Tornetta Paul
Published: August 2017

Surgical site infections lead to increased morbidity and health care costs. The use of local antibiotics in the form of powder applied to the surgical wound has significantly increased in orthopaedics. We have developed a technique to introduce local antibiotics in the form of a “putty,” to be directly applied to surgical implants. This technique can potentially concentrate the antibiotics around the implant, where it is most needed to prevent bacterial colonization.
Cephalomedullary Nail Fixation of Intertrochanteric Femur Fractures: Are Two Proximal Screws Better Than One?
Authors: Serrano Rafael , Blair James A. , Watson David T. , Infante Anthony F. , Shah Anjan R. , Mir Hassan R. , Maxson Benjamin J. , Downes Katheryne W. , Sanders Roy W.
Published: August 2017

Objectives:

To analyze radiographic changes in intertrochanteric (IT) fracture alignment after treatment with either a single sliding lag screw or an integrated compressed and locked, dual screw, cephalomedullary nail construct.

Design:

Retrospective comparative study.

Setting:

Level 1 regional trauma center.

Patients:

1004 OTA/AO 31A, 31B2.1 fractures treated with either a single screw cephalomedullary nail (Gamma 3) or an integrated dual screw cephalomedullary nail (InterTAN) between February 1, 2005, and June 30, 2013. Four hundred thirteen remained after exclusion criteria; 130 were treated with a single screw device (79 stable and 51 unstable), and 283 with an integrated dual screw device (155 stable and 128 unstable).

Intervention:

Cephalomedullary nail insertion.

Outcome Measures:

Radiographic analysis included fracture pattern, fracture reduction, neck-shaft angle (NSA), and femoral neck shortening (FNS) differences at 3, 6, and 12 months. Measurements were normalized using known lag screw dimensions, digitally corrected for magnification. Rotation between x-rays was controlled using a ratio of known to measured dimensions. The Mann–WhitneyUtest was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The single screw device resulted in 2.5 times more varus collapse (NSA) and 2 times more FNS over 1 year, as compared to the locked, integrated dual screw device, regardless of stability (P< 0.001). NSA and FNS changes were greater for both devices in unstable fracture patterns, but significantly less movement occurred with the dual screw device (P< 0.001).

Conclusions:

A cephalomedullary nail with 2 integrated proximal screws that can be compressed and then locked seems to maintain initial IT fracture reduction and subsequent position over time, with less varus collapse and less shortening than a single screw device.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Siblings With Mutations in TRAPPC11 Presenting With Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2S
Authors: Fee Dominic B. , Harmelink Matthew , Monrad Priya , Pyzik Erika
Published: August 2017

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy 2S (LGMD2S) is an autosomal recessive condition due to mutations in the TRAPPC11 gene. It is recently described with only 9 prior reported individuals. In addition to the muscular dystrophy, some affected individuals have small head size, global developmental delay, seizures, cataracts, and liver problems. Siblings with an uncharacterized LGMD were assessed; whole-exome screening revealed compound heterozygous mutations in the TRAPPC11 gene. Their presentation helps confirm the emerging phenotype for LGMD2S.
Clinical and Laboratory Profiles of Idiopathic Small Fiber Neuropathy in Children: Case Series
Authors: Kafaie Jafar , Al Balushi Ali , Kim Minsoo , Pestronk Alan
Published: August 2017

The role of autoimmune mechanisms in idiopathic small fiber neuropathy (SFN) is not completely understood. Serum IgM binding to trisulfated disaccharide IdoA2S-GlcNS-6S (TS-HDS) and IgG to fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 were associated with sensory motor polyneuropathies and sensory neuronopathy among others. In this retrospective case review, we describe the clinical and laboratory findings of idiopathic SFN in a small cohort of pediatric patients. Eight children were diagnosed with SFN clinically and confirmed by reduced epidermal nerve fiber density. No involvement of large fibers was confirmed by clinical examination and electrophysiological tests. Possible triggering factors were infectious mononucleosis in 4 patients and human papilloma virus vaccination in 1 patient. Tilt table test was positive in 1 patient, and clinical autonomic dysfunctions were noted in 6 patients. Five patients had positive IgM against TS-HDS, 3 of whom had lower extremity predominant paresthesia. In conclusion, a high proportion of patients with idiopathic SFN in our cohort had a positive IgM TS-HDS antibody.
Characterization of Strength and Function in Ambulatory Adults With GNE Myopathy
Authors: Argov Zohar , Bronstein Faye , Esposito Alicia , Feinsod-Meiri Yael , Florence Julaine M. , Fowler Eileen , Greenberg Marcia B. , Malkus Elizabeth C. , Rebibo Odelia , Siener Catherine S. , Caraco Yoseph , Kolodny Edwin H. , Lau Heather A. , Pestronk Alan , Shieh Perry , Skrinar Alison M. , Mayhew Jill E.
Published: August 2017

Objective:

To characterize the pattern and extent of muscle weakness and impact on physical functioning in adults with GNEM.

Methods:

Strength and function were assessed in GNEM subjects (n = 47) using hand-held dynamometry, manual muscle testing, upper and lower extremity functional capacity tests, and the GNEM-Functional Activity Scale (GNEM-FAS).

Results:

Profound upper and lower muscle weakness was measured using hand-held dynamometry in a characteristic pattern, previously described. Functional tests and clinician-reported outcomes demonstrated the consequence of muscle weakness on physical functioning.

Conclusions:

The characteristic pattern of upper and lower muscle weakness associated with GNEM and the resulting functional limitations can be reliably measured using these clinical outcome assessments of muscle strength and function.
Lymphedema of the Lower Extremities due to Refractory Malignant Lymphoma Treated by Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis
Authors: Ishii Naohiro , Aoki Marie , Kishi Kazuo
Published: August 2017

Lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) is primarily performed for lymphedema of the lower extremities after surgical treatment of gynecologic cancer and lymphedema of the upper extremities after surgical resection of breast cancer; however, LVA for lymphedema due to malignant lymphoma has not been reported to date. We herein present a patient with severe lymphedema of the lower extremities due to refractory malignant lymphoma, which markedly improved with LVA. LVA could contribute to improve quality of life in patients with end-stage disease with lymphedema of the lower extremities due to refractory malignant lymphoma.
Pure Glaucoma Drugs Are Toxic to Immortalized Human Corneal Epithelial Cells, but They Do Not Destabilize Lipid Membranes
Authors: Robciuc Alexandra , Witos Joanna , Ruokonen Suvi-Katriina , Rantamäki Antti H. , Pisella Pierre-Jean , Wiedmer Susanne K. , Holopainen Juha M.
Published: August 2017

Purpose:

Most pure glaucoma drugs (pGDs) are hydrophobic substances intended to reduce elevated intraocular pressure. The aims of our study were to determine the toxicity of pGDs (brimonidine tartrate, brinzolamide, latanoprost, timolol maleate, and pilocarpine hydrochloride) on ocular surface cells and to establish whether their toxicity is subsequent to cellular membrane destabilization.

Methods:

The toxicity of clinically efficient doses of pGDs was measured at different time points in a cell culture of human corneal epithelial cells using a redox indicator. pGD interaction with the plasma membrane was analyzed using a hemolysis assay and liposome electrokinetic chromatography. The capacity of pGDs to induce endoplasmic reticulum stress was investigated by immunoblotting.

Results:

The toxicity assay showed that all pGDs decrease the viability of the epithelial cells to variable degrees. Early toxicity was measured for 4% pilocarpine and 0.15% brimonidine with 60% cell death at 4 hours, whereas 2% pilocarpine and 0.005% latanoprost showed almost 100% toxicity but only after 16 hours. The hemolysis assay and liposome electrokinetic chromatography experiments suggested that interaction between pGDs and lipid membranes is weak and cannot explain cell death through lysis. Immunoblotting revealed that the drugs activate endoplasmic reticulum stress and, with the exception of pilocarpine, have the capacity to induce apoptosis through upregulation of C/EBP homologous protein.

Conclusions:

Our study indicates that all studied pGDs decrease the viability of the corneal epithelial cells, but none of the tested compounds were able to destabilize cellular membranes. The pGDs seem to be internalized and can induce apoptosis through C/EBP homologous protein recruitment.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Cathelicidin Correlates With the Bacterial Load and Outcomes in Childhood Bacterial Meningitis
Authors: Savonius Okko , Helve Otto , Roine Irmeli , Andersson Sture , Saukkoriipi Annika , González Mata Antonio , Peltola Heikki , Pelkonen Tuula
Published: August 2017

Background:

Large cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bacterial load in bacterial meningitis (BM) relates to poor outcome. However, the antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin seems important to host defense. We studied how cathelicidin concentrations and bacterial load in CSF relate in childhood BM and to what extent they may predict the disease outcome.

Methods:

The patient data originated from a large prospective clinical trial in Latin America in 1996–2003 in which the CSF samples were collected on admission (CSF1) and 12–24 hours later (CSF2). The cathelicidin concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the CSF bacterial load by real-time polymerase chain reaction. This analysis comprised 76 children with meningitis caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b (n = 44), Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 28) or Neisseria meningitidis (n = 4).

Results:

The cathelicidin concentration correlated with the bacterial genome count in both samples (CSF1: ρ = 0.531, P < 0.001; CSF2: ρ = 0.553, P < 0.001). A high CSF1 ratio of cathelicidin to the bacterial genome count was associated with fewer audiologic sequelae (odds ratio: 0.11, 95% confidence interval: 0.02–0.61, P = 0.01) and more favorable neurologic outcomes (odds ratio: 3.95, 95% confidence interval: 1.22–12.8, P = 0.02), but not with better survival.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, CSF cathelicidin and the bacterial load were closely related in childhood BM. A high initial cathelicidin-to-bacterial genome count ratio predicted better outcomes in survivors.
No Effects of D-Cycloserine Enhancement in Exposure With Response Prevention Therapy in Panic Disorder With Agoraphobia
Authors: Hofmeijer-Sevink Mieke Klein , Duits Puck , Rijkeboer Marleen M. , Hoogendoorn Adriaan W. , van Megen Harold J. , Vulink Nienke C. , Denys Damiaan A. , van den Hout Marcel A. , van Balkom Anton J. , Cath Danielle C.
Published: August 2017

Purpose/Background

D-cycloserine (DCS) is a partial N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor agonist that potentially augments response to exposure therapy in anxiety disorders by enhancing extinction learning. This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled augmentation trial examined (1) the effectiveness of adding 125 mg of DCS to exposure therapy (before or directly after the first 6 treatment sessions) in patients with panic disorder with agoraphobia and (2) the effectiveness of DCS augmentation preceding exposure relative to DCS augmentation directly postexposure.

Methods/Procedures

Fifty-seven patients were allocated to 1 of 3 medication conditions (placebo and pre-exposure and postexposure DCS) as an addition to 6 exposure sessions within a 12-session exposure and response prevention protocol. The primary outcome measure was the mean score on the “alone” subscale of the Mobility Inventory (MI).

Findings/Results

No differences were found in treatment outcome between DCS and placebo, administered either pre-exposure or postexposure therapy, although at 3-month follow-up, the DCS postexposure group compared with DCS pre-exposure, exhibited greater symptom reduction on the MI-alone subscale. Ancillary analyses in specific subgroups (responders vs nonresponders, early vs late responders, severely vs mildly affected patients) did not reveal any between-group DCS versus placebo differences. Finally, the study did not find an effect of DCS relative to placebo to be specific for successful exposure sessions.

Implications/Conclusions

This study does not find an effect of augmentation with DCS in patients with severe panic disorder and agoraphobia administered either pretreatment or directly posttreatment sessions. Moreover, no preferential effects are revealed in specific subgroups nor in successful exposure sessions. Yet, a small effect of DCS administration postexposure therapy cannot be ruled out, given the relatively small sample size of this study.
The Experience of Litigation From the Perspective of Midwives in Iran
Authors: Peyman Akram , Nayeri Nahid Dehghan , Bandboni Mohammad Esmaeilpour , Moghadam Zahra Behboodi
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Errors and notices to appear in court are a reality of life for many midwives and exert significant effects on both their professional and personal lives. Given the increasing population policies in place, this study was conducted to examine midwives' experiences of litigation in Iran.

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted in 2014 using an interpretive phenomenological approach. The interviews were recorded and transcribed and were then analyzed using the Diekelmann method.

Findings

Midwives who participated had professional experience ranging from 3 to 22 years at the time of the complaints. Five participants had received more than one complaint, and 10 participants were judged as guilty creating/leaving significant effects on various dimensions of their lives.

Conclusion

The present research disclosed four main themes from the interviews including feeling ruined by the complaints, being conflicted between denial and belief, having shattered hopes of release, and experiencing the slowed-down rhythm of midwifery. From these, a basic pattern of “living in despair” was extracted. Litigation is a painful experience for midwives. Anxiety regarding compensation for the patients' losses, public judgment, prolonged litigations, and undermined professional dignity create physical and psychological ramifications for these midwives. Negative feelings about litigation, compounded by the lack of legal support from the authorities, cause a sense of hopelessness regarding the future of the midwifery profession.
Injury of the Hypothalamus in Patients With Hypoxic–Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Jang Sung Ho , Kwon Hyeok Gyu
Published: August 2017

Objectives

The survival rate for hypoxic–ischemic brain injury (HI-BI) is less than 20%. Several brain regions, including the caudate, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, are vulnerable to HI-BI. Hypothalamus is involved in regulation of temperature, sleep-wakefulness cycle, emotional behavior, and memory function. Using diffusion tensor imaging, we examined injury of the hypothalamus in patients with HI-BI.

Methods

Twelve patients with HI-BI and 27 healthy control subjects were recruited. The region of interest was defined for the hypothalamus and the fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion coefficient were measured.

Results

The fractional anisotropy value was significantly lower in the patient group compared with the control group (P < 0.05), whereas the apparent diffusion coefficient value was significantly higher compared with that of the control group (P < 0.05). In the individual analysis, 7 (58.3%) of 12 patients and 14 (58.3%) of 24 hemispheres showed a decrement or increment of more than two SDs in either fractional anisotropy or apparent diffusion coefficient values compared with the control group.

Conclusions

Using diffusion tensor imaging, injury of the hypothalamus was demonstrated in patients with HI-BI. Our methodology and results of this study would be helpful in research on the hypothalamus in patients with HI-BI.
Biological action in Read–Write genome evolution
Authors: Shapiro James A.
Published: August 2017

Many of the most important evolutionary variations that generated phenotypic adaptations and originated novel taxa resulted from complex cellular activities affecting genome content and expression. These activities included (i) the symbiogenetic cell merger that produced the mitochondrion-bearing ancestor of all extant eukaryotes, (ii) symbiogenetic cell mergers that produced chloroplast-bearing ancestors of photosynthetic eukaryotes, and (iii) interspecific hybridizations and genome doublings that generated new species and adaptive radiations of higher plants and animals. Adaptive variations also involved horizontal DNA transfers and natural genetic engineering by mobile DNA elements to rewire regulatory networks, such as those essential to viviparous reproduction in mammals. In the most highly evolved multicellular organisms, biological complexity scales with ‘non-coding’ DNA content rather than with protein-coding capacity in the genome. Coincidentally, ‘non-coding’ RNAs rich in repetitive mobile DNA sequences function as key regulators of complex adaptive phenotypes, such as stem cell pluripotency. The intersections of cell fusion activities, horizontal DNA transfers and natural genetic engineering of Read–Write genomes provide a rich molecular and biological foundation for understanding how ecological disruptions can stimulate productive, often abrupt, evolutionary transformations.
Adaptability and evolution
Authors: Bateson Patrick
Published: August 2017

The capacity of organisms to respond in their own lifetimes to new challenges in their environments probably appeared early in biological evolution. At present few studies have shown how such adaptability could influence the inherited characteristics of an organism's descendants. In part, this has been because organisms have been treated as passive in evolution. Nevertheless, their effects on biological evolution are likely to have been important and, when they occurred, accelerated the pace of evolution. Ways in which this might have happened have been suggested many times since the 1870s. I review these proposals and discuss their relevance to modern thought.