bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explicit dynamic formulation to demonstrate compliance against quasi-static aircraft seat certification loads (CS25.561) – Part I: influence of time and mass scaling
Authors: Gulavani Omkar , Hughes Kevin , Vignjevic Rade
Published: October 2013

A finite element model of an aircraft seat subjected to static certification loads (Certification Specifications CS25.561) involves material, geometric and contact non-linearities. Implicit algorithms can model the physics of such problems appropriately but suffer from shortcomings such as significant finite element modelling efforts, high disk space and memory requirements and unconverged solutions. Explicit finite element schemes offer a more robust alternative for convergence for quasi-static loadcases but may come at an even higher computational cost as smaller solution time steps are required, in addition to unwanted inertial effects. A methodology to apply an explicit formulation for simulating static certification loading for an aircraft seat-structure is presented and validated in this article. The first part reviews the design novelties of the triple seat-structure considered, the safety regulations used in aircraft seat certification. The key theoretical aspects of an explicit solver are presented, together with the numerical challenges faced when applied to solving quasi-static problems. Time scaling, mass scaling and damping are common approaches to assist in artificially reducing the computational time but previous articles provide little insight into how to apply these techniques correctly and the level of checking that is required to ensure the quality of the results are unaffected by these modifications. The main focus of this article is to clearly define the procedure to establish appropriate factors for mass scaling, time scaling and damping. Quality checks, such as ratio of kinetic energy to internal energy and their time-histories have been investigated to ensure a quasi-static solution. finite element analysis results are validated against experimental testing for the 8.6 g downward loadcase. Parameters such as kinematic behaviour and deflections at key locations been used for comparison. An acceptable level of correlation between finite element analysis results and physical tests validates the proposed methodology, which will be extended in a future article (Part II) to consider additional contact complexities with the inclusion of body blocks.
Premature coronary heart disease in SLE: can we prevent progression?
Authors: Iaccarino L , Bettio S , Zen M , Nalotto L , Gatto M , Ramonda R , Punzi L , Doria A
Published: October 2013

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have a higher prevalence of clinical and subclinical atherosclerosis compared with age- and sex-matched controls. Atherosclerosis progression is also accelerated in SLE, and coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality.

Traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus or dyslipidemia, are more prevalent in SLE patients than in the general population, but they cannot fully account for accelerated atherosclerosis in SLE. In fact, a number of nontraditional risk factors have been identified, including disease activity, damage and various treatments.

Preventive strategies for CHD are mandatory in SLE patients and should include giving up smoking; performing regular physical activity; managing metabolic abnormalities such as dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and diabetes; treating persistent disease activity; and minimizing chronic exposure to corticosteroids. Low-dose aspirin, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, vitamin D supplementation, antimalarials and, when indicated, some immunosuppressants such as mycophenolate mofetil should also be considered.
Coping with SLE: just in case vs. just in time: Nurse’s Perspective
Authors: Brown S
Published: October 2013

This paper considers the experiences of people with lupus in comparison with those with diabetes, and discusses the impact of lupus specialist nurses in information-giving and education under the guise of ‘just in case’ vs. ‘just in time’. Now recognized as a difficult condition to diagnose, lupus can lead to significant worry and distress especially during delays to diagnosis and times of high disease activity. Providing appropriate, individualized information to people with lupus is embedded in specialist nursing practice and enables individuals to use the tools of self-management approaches in gaining control over everyday symptoms.
Children and adolescents with SLE: not just little adults
Authors: Morgan TA , Watson L , McCann LJ , Beresford MW
Published: October 2013

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) represents 15–20% of all SLE cases. Whilst features of this chronic complex multisystem autoimmune disorder are highly variable, children and adolescents generally present with a more severe illness than adults and accrue greater disease damage over time. JSLE has a less striking female preponderance and differs from the adult form in pattern of major organ manifestations. Corticosteroids are used in almost all children with JSLE along with the majority requiring additional immunosuppressive medications. Making the diagnosis early and optimizing disease control are essential to ensure that normal childhood and adolescent development is not impeded. In this young population, special consideration must be given to the long-term sequelae of the disease and treatment-related toxicity. There is a current lack of paediatric-specific controlled trials and treatment strategies are generally guided by adult data. The enormous psychological and social impact of the disease and its treatments upon the child or young person and their family necessitates a comprehensive, holistic, specialized multidisciplinary approach to managing JSLE.
Renoprotective strategies in lupus nephritis: beyond immunosuppression
Authors: Griffin B , Lightstone L
Published: October 2013

Lupus nephritis needs to be diagnosed promptly and treated specifically with appropriate immunosuppression. However, all patients with lupus nephritis have by definition chronic kidney disease (CKD) as they will have proteinuria with varying degrees of renal impairment. CKD requires careful additional management, not only to reduce the risk of progression to end-stage renal disease but also because it is probably the strongest risk for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This review focuses on the evidence underscoring strategies to prevent progression of CKD beyond the “simple” treatment of the lupus nephritis. The strategies include immaculate control of blood pressure, inhibition of the renin–angiotensin system to reduce blood pressure and proteinuria, and the benefits of lifestyle modifications such as tackling smoking, obesity and exercise. We also review the literature on control of dyslipidaemias which, although clearly of cardiovascular benefit, provide less compelling data for offering renoprotection. We touch on the emerging area of the importance of controlling urate levels in protecting against progressive renal impairment. Finally, there is a reminder about the importance of considering the nephrotoxicity of all medications prescribed for patients with lupus nephritis – above all the need to avoid the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Overall, the theme is that there is much more to the management of patients with lupus nephritis than “just” the nephritis – a multidisciplinary approach involving nephrologists as well as rheumatologists is more likely to provide the appropriate wider care required for all patients with lupus nephritis.
Nurses’ attitudes toward ethical issues in psychiatric inpatient settings
Authors: Eren Nurhan
Published: October 2013

Background:

Nursing is an occupation that deals with humans and relies upon human relationships. Nursing care, which is an important component of these relationships, involves protection, forbearance, attention, and worry.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ethical beliefs of psychiatric nurses and ethical problems encountered.

Research Design:

The study design was descriptive and cross-sectional.

Research context:

Methods comprised of a questionnaire administered to psychiatric nurses (n = 202) from five psychiatric hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey, instruction in psychiatric nursing ethics, discussion of reported ethical problems by nursing focus groups, and analysis of questionnaires and reports by academicians with clinical experience.

Participants:

Participants consist of the nurses who volunteered to take part in the study from the five psychiatric hospitals (n = 202), which were selected with cluster sampling method.

Ethical considerations:

Written informed consent of each participant was taken prior to the study.

Findings:

The results indicated that nurses needed additional education in psychiatric ethics. Insufficient personnel, excessive workload, working conditions, lack of supervision, and in-service training were identified as leading to unethical behaviors. Ethical code or nursing care -related problems included (a) neglect, (b) rude/careless behavior, (c) disrespect of patient rights and human dignity, (d) bystander apathy, (e) lack of proper communication, (f) stigmatization, (g) authoritarian attitude/intimidation, (h) physical interventions during restraint, (i) manipulation by reactive emotions, (j) not asking for permission, (k) disrespect of privacy, (l) dishonesty or lack of clarity, (m) exposure to unhealthy physical conditions, and (n) violation of confidence.

Discussion:

The results indicate that ethical codes of nursing in psychiatric inpatient units are inadequate and standards of care are poor.

Conclusion:

In order to address those issues, large-scale research needs to be conducted in psychiatric nursing with a focus on case studies and criteria for evaluation of service, and competency and responsibility needs to be established in psychiatric nursing education and practice.
Combining social media and career development learning: An intensive tertiary preparation programme for disadvantaged youth
Authors: Ryan Naomi J , Hopkins Susan
Published: October 2013

The tertiary preparation programme intensive school (TPPIS) for Year 12 school leavers offered young people from low socio-economic status (LSES) backgrounds an alternative pathway to university, a second chance at tertiary entrance and ultimately for some, a fast track to a better future. The intensive programme not only focuses on teaching academic communication, mathematics and study management skills but also the importance of career development whilst aiming to raise the aspirations of disadvantaged students. By incorporating social media into the teaching toolkit, there were increased opportunities for non-traditional students (from LSES backgrounds who finished high school without a tertiary admissions rank or overall position) to transition to university culture and to expand their social networks. These strong social support networks are an important factor determining career development and study success, especially for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. The programme has succeeded in realising the potential of this student group with more than 80% of participants moving on to tertiary study.
Development and performance evaluation of a streamlined method for nucleic acid purification, denaturation, and multiplex detection of Bluetongue virus and Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus
Authors: Schroeder Megan E. , Johnson Donna J. , Ostlund Eileen N. , Meier Jennifer , Bounpheng Mangkey A. , Clavijo Alfonso
Published: October 2013

Bluetongue virus (BTV) and Epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) possess similar structural and molecular features, are transmitted by biting midges (genus Culicoides), and cause similar diseases in some susceptible ruminants. Generally, BTV causes subclinical disease in cattle, characterized by a prolonged viremia. EHDV-associated disease in cattle is less prominent; however, it has emerged as a major economic threat to the white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus) industry in many areas of the United States. The recent emergence of multiple BTV and EHDV serotypes previously undetected in the United States demonstrates the need for robust detection of all known serotypes and differential diagnosis. For this purpose, a streamlined workflow consisting of an automated nucleic acid purification and denaturation method and a multiplex one-step reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction for the simultaneous detection of BTV serotypes 1–24 and EHDV serotypes 1–7 was developed using previously published BTV and EHDV assays. The denaturation of double-stranded (ds) BTV and EHDV RNA was incorporated into the automated nucleic acid purification process thus eliminating the commonly used separate step of dsRNA denaturation. The performance of this workflow was compared with the World Organization of Animal Health BTV reference laboratory (National Veterinary Services Laboratory, Ames, Iowa) workflow for BTV and EHDV detection, and high agreement was observed. Implementation of the workflow in routine diagnostic testing enables the detection of, and differentiation between, BTV and EHDV, and coinfections in bovine blood and cervine tissues, offering significant benefits in terms of differential disease diagnosis, herd health monitoring, and regulated testing.
Mycotoxicoses of ruminants and horses
Authors: Riet-Correa Franklin , Rivero Rodolfo , Odriozola Ernesto , Adrien Maria de Lourdes , Medeiros Rosane M. T. , Schild Ana Lucia
Published: October 2013

In the current study, mycotoxicoses of ruminants and horses are reviewed, with an emphasis on the occurrence of these diseases in South America. The main mycotoxicoses observed in grazing cattle include intoxications by indole-diterpenoid mycotoxins ( Paspalum spp. contaminated by Claviceps paspali, Lolium perenne infected by Neotyphodium lolii, Cynodon dactylon infected by Claviceps cynodontis, and Poa huecu), gangrenous ergotism and dysthermic syndrome (hyperthermia) caused by Festuca arundinacea (syn. Festuca elatior) infected by Neotyphodium coenophialum (syn. Acremonium coenophialum), and photosensitization in pastures contaminated by toxigenic Pithomyces chartarum. Other mycotoxicoses in grazing cattle include slaframine toxicity in clover pastures infected by Rhizoctonia leguminicola and diplodiosis in cattle grazing in corn stubbles. The mycotoxicoses caused by contaminated concentrated food or byproducts in cattle include poisoning by toxins of Aspergillus clavatus, which contaminate barley or sugar beetroot by-products, gangrenous ergotism or dysthermic syndrome caused by wheat bran or wheat screenings contaminated with Claviceps purpurea, and acute respiratory distress caused by damaged sweet potatoes ( Ipomoea batatas). The main mycotoxicosis of horses is leukoencephalomalacia caused by the fumonisins B1 and B2 produced by Fusarium spp. Poisoning by C. purpurea and F. elatior infected by N. coenophialum has also been reported as a cause of agalactia and neonatal mortality in mares. Slaframine toxicosis caused by the ingestion of alfalfa hay contaminated by R. leguminicola has also been reported in horses.
How I Became Addicted to Simulations and Games
Authors: Powers Richard B.
Published: October 2013

Three outstanding teachers stimulated my interest in alternative methods of education and made me receptive to simulations and games. At my first gaming conference, I discovered the value of simulations and games by playing games rather than by listening to lectures. I found the spirit of play and cooperation at NASAGA and ISAGA conferences refreshing and my games owe a considerable debt to the experienced gamers I met there. My experience facilitating games has taught me that allowing a few players to judge the work of their peers using subjective criteria leads to negative emotions, which may cancel any potential benefits of a game. I have also learned that the NEW COMMONS GAME, which illustrates the tragedy of the commons, may leave players feeling helpless and fatalistic about solving real-world commons problems. Several strategies are presented that counter negative feelings and instill optimism in players that commons problems can be solved. Recent developments in the video gaming community provide grounds for optimism about the future of educational gaming. However, it is imperative that video game designers who have an educational goal incorporate the knowledge that educational gamers have acquired over the past 50 years, such as the need for debriefing. A hypothetical, long-term, large-scale game is described that has the potential to educate students campuswide about how a commons resource can be sustained for the benefit of all. In addition, if the game is conducted across semesters or years, players’ responsibility to future generations of players could be studied and enhanced. However, the hypothetical game would require revising current thinking about debriefing. A brief description of the games I have designed is included.
The Identity Question for African Youth
Authors: Amoah John K.
Published: October 2013

The identity question is one that African immigrants have to contend with in the acculturation into the American society. The confluence of different cultures detracts continuity of the ethnic identity and calls for reconstructions. This fact creates a difficult path for an easy identity construct. This article discusses how they recreate their identity in the new host country and what educators, community leaders, and service providers can contribute to the process.
Performance Evaluation of Wet Pavement Markings in Ohio
Authors: Abbas Ala R. , Sarker Priyanka , Frankhouser Andrew
Published: October 2013

Snow plowable raised pavement markers (RPMs) have been used in Ohio for the past four decades to provide visual guidance to motorists under inclement weather conditions. In recent years, rare incidents have occurred where the aged pavement surface failed to provide adequate support to the RPM castings. As a result, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) initiated this study to evaluate the performance of alternative pavement marking materials and determine whether they can provide equivalent or better delineation than the existing system. These materials included all weather paint (AWP) and wet retroreflective (WR) durable tape. Both materials exhibited high initial WR. However, their wet night performance was significantly compromised within a relatively short period of time due to traffic and snow plowing activities. Therefore, it was concluded that given the harsh environmental conditions in Ohio, it will not be cost-effective to use AWP or WR durable tape as a replacement for RPMs.
Developing Behavioral Theory With the Systematic Integration of Community Social Capital Concepts
Authors: Samuel Laura J. , Commodore-Mensah Yvonne , Dennison Himmelfarb Cheryl R.
Published: October 2013

Health behavior theories state that social environments influence health behaviors, but theories of how this occurs are relatively underdeveloped. This article systematically surveys community social capital concepts in health behavior literature and proposes a conceptual framework that integrates these concepts into existing behavioral theory. Fifty-three studies tested associations between community social capital concepts and physical activity (38 studies), smoking (19 studies), and diet (2 studies). Trustworthiness of community members was consistently associated with more health-promoting and less disease-promoting behaviors in 19 studies. Neighborly reciprocity showed mixed results in 10 studies. Reporting a good sense of community was associated with more physical activity in only 5 of 16 studies. Neighborhood collective efficacy, which includes social cohesion and informal social control, was inconsistently associated with behaviors in 22 studies. Behavioral social norms were associated with smoking and physical activity in 2 of 6 studies, and neighborhood modeling of physical activity was associated with increased activity in 12 of 17 studies, with 1 opposing result. This review identifies several community social capital–related concepts that are, at times, associated with both health-promoting and disease-promoting behaviors and often have no associations. Theory explains these findings by describing the relationships and interactions among these concepts. Using these findings, this article proposes a conceptual framework that integrates community social capital concepts into existing behavioral theory. Iterative empirically based theory development is needed to address these concepts, which affect behaviors. These results can also inform theoretically based community-based and socially tailored interventions.
The State of the Empirical Research Literature on Stakeholder Involvement in Program Evaluation
Authors: Brandon Paul R. , Fukunaga Landry L.
Published: October 2013

Evaluators widely agree that stakeholder involvement is a central aspect of effective program evaluation. With the exception of articles on collaborative evaluation approaches, however, a systematic review of the breadth and depth of the literature on stakeholder involvement has not been published. In this study, we examine peer-reviewed empirical studies as the first step in establishing a firm foundation for a discussion of stakeholder involvement. We excluded all studies that did not provide descriptions of their methods, helping ensure that we only reviewed studies with strong methodological warrants for their findings. We address three key questions about the state of the empirical literature on stakeholder involvement, focusing on the studies' methodological and contextual characteristics, and the involvement themes and substantive nature (positive, negative/mixed, or explanatory/normative) of the findings. We provide detailed findings in an appendix at http://aje.sagepub.com/supplemental or http://goo.gl/W8oMnl .
Scaling Up School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
Authors: Horner Robert H. , Kincaid Donald , Sugai George , Lewis Timothy , Eber Lucille , Barrett Susan , Dickey Celeste Rossetto , Richter Mary , Sullivan Erin , Boezio Cyndi , Algozzine Bob , Reynolds Heather , Johnson Nanci
Published: October 2013

Scaling of evidence-based practices in education has received extensive discussion but little empirical evaluation. We present here a descriptive summary of the experience from seven states with a history of implementing and scaling School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) over the past decade. Each state has been successful in establishing at least 500 schools using SWPBIS across approximately a third or more of the schools in their state. The implementation elements proposed by Sugai, Horner, and Lewis (2009) and the stages of implementation described by Fixsen, Naoom, Blase, Friedman, and Wallace (2005) were used within a survey with each element assessed at each stage by the SWPBIS coordinators and policy makers in the seven states. Consistent themes from analysis of the responses were defined and confirmed with the surveyed participants. Results point to four central areas of state “capacity” as being perceived as critical for a state to move SWPBIS to scale (administrative leadership and funding, local training and coaching capacity, behavioral expertise, and local evaluation capacity), and an iterative process in which initial implementation success (100–200 demonstrations) is needed to recruit the political and fiscal support required for larger scaling efforts.
Loneliness, friendship, and well-being in adults with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Mazurek Micah O
Published: October 2013

This study examined the relations among loneliness, friendship, and emotional functioning in adults ( N = 108) with autism spectrum disorders. Participants completed self-report measures of symptoms of autism spectrum disorders, loneliness, number and nature of friendships, depression, anxiety, life satisfaction, and self-esteem. The results indicated that loneliness was associated with increased depression and anxiety and decreased life satisfaction and self-esteem, even after controlling for symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. In addition, greater quantity and quality of friendships were associated with decreased loneliness among adults with autism spectrum disorders. Multivariate models indicated that friendship did not moderate the relationship between loneliness and well-being; however, number of friends provided unique independent effects in predicting self-esteem, depression, and anxiety above and beyond the effects of loneliness. This was the first study to examine the relations among these aspects of social and emotional functioning in adults with autism spectrum disorders, and the results indicate that this topic warrants further clinical and research attention.
Innovative technology-based interventions for autism spectrum disorders: A meta-analysis
Authors: Grynszpan Ouriel , Weiss Patrice L (Tamar) , Perez-Diaz Fernando , Gal Eynat
Published: October 2013

This article reports the results of a meta-analysis of technology-based intervention studies for children with autism spectrum disorders. We conducted a systematic review of research that used a pre–post design to assess innovative technology interventions, including computer programs, virtual reality, and robotics. The selected studies provided interventions via a desktop computer, interactive DVD, shared active surface, and virtual reality. None employed robotics. The results provide evidence for the overall effectiveness of technology-based training. The overall mean effect size for posttests of controlled studies of children with autism spectrum disorders who received technology-based interventions was significantly different from zero and approached the medium magnitude, d = 0.47 (confidence interval: 0.08–0.86). The influence of age and IQ was not significant. Differences in training procedures are discussed in the light of the negative correlation that was found between the intervention durations and the studies’ effect sizes. The results of this meta-analysis provide support for the continuing development, evaluation, and clinical usage of technology-based intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
The effect of positioning on preterm infants’ sleep–wake states and stress behaviours during exposure to environmental stressors
Authors: Peng Niang-Huei , Chen Li-Li , Li Tsai-Chung , Smith Marlaine , Chang Yu-Shan , Huang Li-Chi
Published: October 2013

Previous studies separately examined the effects of positioning or environmental stressors on preterm infants’ sleep and stress. Since positioning and environmental stressors occur simultaneously during infant hospitalization exploring these variables in the same study may offer new insights. A quasi-experimental study by one-group interrupted time-series design. In the current study, a total of 22 preterm infants were enrolled. Each infant was moved to either the supine or prone position for an hour at a time. Infants were videotaped and the sleep–wake states, stress behaviours and environmental conditions (light, noise and stimulation/handling) were recorded during the observation period. A total of 80 observations from 22 infants were accrued. In the supine position, preterm infants demonstrated more frequent waking states after adjusting for various environmental stressors ( p < .01). These infants demonstrated more frequent stress behaviours in the supine position after adjusting for various environmental stressors ( p < .01). These results suggest that the prone position is a more favourable position for facilitating sleep and reducing stress for preterm infants exposed to varying environmental stressors. Preterm infants present different stress behaviours in response to varying types of environmental stimuli.
Two methods of cord care in high-risk newborns
Authors: Ahn Youngmee , Sohn Min , Jun Yonghoon , Lee Eunyoung , Lee Sangmi
Published: October 2013

This randomized clinical study explored the effects of two cord care methods on hydration, temperature, pH, and floras at the cord area in high-risk newborns. One group used the water method; and the other group used the alcohol method. Seventy-two newborns, including premature newborns, in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a university-affiliated hospital in South Korea were enrolled from August 2011 to May 2012. Hydration, temperature, pH, and floras were measured daily until the cords fell off. The results showed no difference between the groups in hydration, temperature, pH, and the colonization of floras, but cord detachment in the alcohol group took 2 days longer (12.8 [5.7] days) than in the water group (10.9 [4.1] days). Our findings suggest that the clean-and-dry method of cord care, which uses water, could be sufficient, possibly even better than alcohol in maintaining the physiologic surface milieu of the cord area with less chance of infection and manipulation in NICUs with optimal infection control.
Value-in-disposition
Authors: Türe Meltem
Published: October 2013

This study explores value-in-disposition: the reflective ways consumers use disposition process and prospects to enhance the value obtained from their possessions. Data from in-depth interviews and student essays highlight disposition as a process of revaluation of possessions and emphasize the significance of transferable value. The study elucidates the ways disposition conduits turn possessions into gifts, sacrifices, or commodities through which consumers transfer and create value by forming new relations and maintaining and strengthening their social connections. A darker side of disposition also emerges. In controlling the flow of their possessions, consumers reproduce a social order that favors and accentuates their own position. Finally, the study identifies various value enhancement and protection strategies through which consumers deal with nontransferable value and negotiate disposition. In doing so, it shows that the disposition process can trigger attachment to objects.
Applied scotobiology in luminaire design
Authors: Dick R
Published: October 2013

Studies of our illuminated environment demonstrate the importance of light to humans, who by evolution are essentially daytime creatures. However, the study of behaviour and the biology that occurs during the night has clearly shown the importance of darkness for both humans and the ecological integrity of the countryside. Since humans are expanding their activity throughout the night and into rural areas, is there a compromise between the human desire for light and the need for darkness? All animals and plants have light thresholds to which they have evolved. We have applied the findings of scotobiology to determine outdoor lighting that minimizes the disruption of artificial light at night on the natural environment and on human health. It is not surprising that the key characteristics to be limited are the brightness, duration and extent of the emitted light, the amount of glare and the spectrum of the emitted light. To test the practicality of these limits, we present the patented design of a luminaire that bridges the desire for 24 × 7 human lifestyles and the protection of the nocturnal environment.
Behaviour of a high pressure sodium lamp fed by a pulsed power supply
Authors: Nsibi W , Nehdi MN , Chammam A , Elloumi H , Sellami A , Zissis G
Published: October 2013

The aim of this paper is to present the colorimetric and photometric results for a pulsed power supply operated high pressure sodium (HPS) lamp. Especially, we are interested in controlling the spectral response radiation of the yellow D line. This sodium D line is composed of two spectral components, one at 589.6 nm and the other at 589.0 nm. The pulsed power supply is a driver for the HPS lamp based on the application of a low frequency (50 Hz) square current waveform through the lamp with one or more pulses on each half cycle. A description is given of the physical modeling of the arc’s behaviour. Experimental results obtained from our laboratory power supply for a 400 W HPS lamp supplied at 50 Hz and simulations are shown.
Flame retardancy and mechanical properties of flax reinforced woven for composite applications
Authors: Duquesne Sophie , Samyn Fabienne , Ouagne Pierre , Bourbigot Serge
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates the flame retardant and mechanical properties of a flax woven fabric that can be used to prepare biocomposites. The flame retardant properties of the fabric are first considered using different ammonium phosphate salts and intumescent systems. It is demonstrated that satisfactory performances can be achieved using this approach. Better performances were obtained with pure phosphate salts in comparison to intumescent systems. This was attributed first, to the carbonization effect of the flax that could thus react with the phosphate and/or its degradation products leading to a stabilisation of the system and second to the lower phosphorus content when the full intumescent system is considered. On the other hand, despite a loss of biaxial tensile properties, the ability of the fire retardant treated fabric to form complex shape such as a tetrahedron was successfully demonstrated. Finally, the flame retardant properties of one-ply composites, using a bio-based matrix (Bioplast from Biotec), was evaluated. It was shown that good fire retardancy performances could be achieved considering only the flame retardancy of the reinforcement phase. This approach has potential for developing future flame retarded biocomposites.
Molecular dynamics study of nanoscale contact process for defective monocrystalline copper
Authors: Zhan Shengpeng , Yang Xiaojing , Chi Yilin
Published: October 2013

The research of nanoscale contact problem has important significance for the micro-/nano-machinery, especially for micro-/nano-contact problem of material defects, from which deformation and failure mechanism of materials could be revealed. Molecular dynamics method is a valid approach that describes microscopic phenomenon. Taking the rigid hemispherical surface in contact and indentation process with the perfect and defective monocrystalline copper as the research object, the molecular dynamics model of nanoscale contact was established, after solving and simulating analysis. Results showed that the substrates above the square void collapse at contact depths of 0.20 and 0.37 nm when the depths of the square void ( d) are 0.8 and 1.6 nm, respectively. The dislocations and glide band increase as the d increases; at the same time, a larger depth of square void results in a bigger contact force between the hemispherical surface and the substrate surface. In the process of disengagement, there is a sudden drop in the contact force, and unrecoverable plastic deformation of the copper material occurs. Moreover, with the increase in void depth, the number of high-stress atoms increases between the hemisphere and the surface of substrate. The stress is mainly distributed in the diagonal of the square void, and the contact area generates stress concentration.
Notes on an ‘‘Open’’ Constituent Power
Authors: Wall Illan rua
Published: October 2013

This article examines critical responses to the question of constituent power. Rather than a closed, meaning-giving moment, which originates the constitutional structure, the article looks at the various ways in which constituent power can be viewed as ‘‘open’’ and anti-underdetermined. It looks at two issues in particular: the ‘‘subject’’ of constituent power, and the nature of the ‘‘power’’ involved. The article concludes with the suggestion that we think of these works as a series of ‘‘strategic hypotheses’’ which might structure action, rather than a collection of ‘‘models’’ that would have to be applied faithfully to the world.
A case of benign vesica melanosis – four-year follow-up
Authors: Manson-Bahr David A , Swamy Rajiv , Adshead Jim M
Published: October 2013

Benign vesica melanosis (BVM) is a rare condition with only 15 reported cases in the literature (Table 1). There is limited understanding of its aetiology. Here we present a four-year follow-up of a case of BVM in a 53-year-old Caucasian male presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms.
The Model Minority Myth for Noncitizen Immigration Offenses and Sentencing Outcomes
Authors: Wu Jawjeong , Kim Dae-Young
Published: October 2013

Labeled the model minority, Asian Americans have been seen as less discriminated against than other racial/ethnic minorities in the different aspects of American society. Sentencing scholarship also revealed robust evidence that Asian offenders were not treated differently from White offenders in judicial decision making. Some research even found the most favorable sentencing outcomes for Asian offenders. However, it is unclear whether the model minority hypothesis is validated when only the criminal sentencing of noncitizen offenders is at issue. Using the U.S. Sentencing Commission’s sentencing data for fiscal years 2006–2007, the present study, with a focus specifically on immigration offenses, seeks to challenge this hypothesis by examining the extent to which an offender’s national origin and race/ethnicity affect sentencing outcomes. Findings reveal strong support for our argument that the model minority advantage is offense-specific and that it is not applicable to all types of offenses. Specifically, there is no model minority advantage for non-U.S. citizens’ immigration offenses.
Adsorption of ferrocyanide onto raw and acid-activated clinoptilolite and sepiolite: equilibrium modelling by error minimization
Authors: Önen V. , Yel E.
Published: October 2013

The experimental data on adsorption of Fe and CN of a ferrocyanide complex onto raw and acid-activated clinoptilolite/sepiolite on the basis of detention time and particle size was modelled by a linear and a non-linear approach. The linearized best-fit isotherm selection method and non-linear error minimization was applied through Freundlich, Langmuir and Temkin isotherms. ERRSQ, MPSD, HYBRID and ARE error functions were minimized by a developed MATLAB script to determine the isotherm parameters in non-linear optimization. The complex was not adsorbed as whole anions but the Fe and CN were adsorbed separately. 0.65 mg Fe/L. min and 4.84 mg CN/L. min initial adsorption rates were achieved with acid activated clinoptilolite. The Fe adsorption was not as successful as CN. The adsorption of Fe and CN was described by Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms respectively. The differences between the predicted isotherm parameter sets of linear models and minimized error function models indicated that both the best-fit isotherm selection and the isotherm constant determinations can be performed properly by error minimization as well as by conventional linear best fit modelling approach.
TRIM28 is essential for erythroblast differentiation in the mouse
Authors: Hosoya Tomonori , Clifford Mary , Losson Régine , Tanabe Osamu , Engel James Douglas
Published: October 2013

Key Points

Genetic loss of the transcriptional corepressor TRIM28 in adult mice results in deficient adult erythropoiesis in bone marrow, and anemia. TRIM28 controls the mRNA levels of multiple erythroid transcription factors, heme biosynthetic enzymes, and the apoptotic apparatus.
Inflammation, obesity, and thrombosis
Authors: Samad Fahumiya , Ruf Wolfram
Published: October 2013

Clinical and epidemiological studies support a connection between obesity and thrombosis, involving elevated expression of the prothrombotic molecules plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and tissue factor (TF) and increased platelet activation. Cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome–associated disorders, including obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and hepatic steatosis, involve inflammation elicited by infiltration and activation of immune cells, particularly macrophages, into adipose tissue. Although TF has been clearly linked to a procoagulant state in obesity, emerging genetic and pharmacologic evidence indicate that TF signaling via G protein-coupled protease-activated receptors (PAR2, PAR1) additionally drives multiple aspects of the metabolic syndrome. TF–PAR2 signaling in adipocytes contributes to diet-induced obesity by decreasing metabolism and energy expenditure, whereas TF–PAR2 signaling in hematopoietic and myeloid cells drives adipose tissue inflammation, hepatic steatosis, and insulin resistance. TF-initiated coagulation leading to thrombin–PAR1 signaling also contributes to diet-induced hepatic steatosis and inflammation in certain models. Thus, in obese patients, clinical markers of a prothrombotic state may indicate a risk for the development of complications of the metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, TF-induced signaling could provide new therapeutic targets for drug development at the intersection between obesity, inflammation, and thrombosis.
Gender-specific influence of socioeconomic status on the prevalence of migraine and tension-type headache: the results from the Korean headache survey
Authors: Chu Min Kyung , Kim Dong-Wook , Kim Byung-Kun , Kim Jae-Moon , Jang Tae-Won , Park Jeong Wook , Lee Kwang Soo , Cho Soo-Jin
Published: October 2013

Background

Socioeconomic status plays an important role in pain coping strategy. Its influence on migraine and tension-type headache may differ by gender. This study aimed to evaluate how socioeconomic status affects the prevalence of migraine and tension-type headache by gender.

Methods

We used data from the Korean Headache Survey, a population-based sample of Koreans aged 19–69 years. Education level, district size, and household income were evaluated as socioeconomic variables.

Results

Among 1507 participants, the 1-year prevalence rates of migraine and tension-type headache were 8.7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.9-4.6%] and 29.1% (95% CI 25.7-32.5%) in women and 3.2% (95% CI 1.9-4.6%) and 32.5% (95% CI 29.1-35.9%) in men, respectively. In women, multiple regression analysis found that living in rural areas was related to higher prevalence of migraine [odds ratio (OR) 4.52, 95% CI 1.85-11.02] and lower prevalence of tension-type headache (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.15–0.58) and college-level education was related to lower prevalence of tension-type headache (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.18–0.74). In men, multiple regression analysis failed to reveal significant influences of any socioeconomic variable on the prevalence of migraine or tension-type headache.

Conclusions

The influence of socioeconomic status on migraine and tension-type headache differs by gender, with women being more susceptible to socioeconomic influence.
An automatic method for robust and fast cell detection in bright field images from high-throughput microscopy
Authors: Buggenthin Felix , Marr Carsten , Schwarzfischer Michael , Hoppe Philipp S , Hilsenbeck Oliver , Schroeder Timm , Theis Fabian J
Published: October 2013

Background

In recent years, high-throughput microscopy has emerged as a powerful tool to analyze cellular dynamics in an unprecedentedly high resolved manner. The amount of data that is generated, for example in long-term time-lapse microscopy experiments, requires automated methods for processing and analysis. Available software frameworks are well suited for high-throughput processing of fluorescence images, but they often do not perform well on bright field image data that varies considerably between laboratories, setups, and even single experiments.

Results

In this contribution, we present a fully automated image processing pipeline that is able to robustly segment and analyze cells with ellipsoid morphology from bright field microscopy in a high-throughput, yet time efficient manner. The pipeline comprises two steps: (i) Image acquisition is adjusted to obtain optimal bright field image quality for automatic processing. (ii) A concatenation of fast performing image processing algorithms robustly identifies single cells in each image. We applied the method to a time-lapse movie consisting of ∼315,000 images of differentiating hematopoietic stem cells over 6 days. We evaluated the accuracy of our method by comparing the number of identified cells with manual counts. Our method is able to segment images with varying cell density and different cell types without parameter adjustment and clearly outperforms a standard approach. By computing population doubling times, we were able to identify three growth phases in the stem cell population throughout the whole movie, and validated our result with cell cycle times from single cell tracking.

Conclusions

Our method allows fully automated processing and analysis of high-throughput bright field microscopy data. The robustness of cell detection and fast computation time will support the analysis of high-content screening experiments, on-line analysis of time-lapse experiments as well as development of methods to automatically track single-cell genealogies.
A sampling framework for incorporating quantitative mass spectrometry data in protein interaction analysis
Authors: Tucker George , Loh Po-Ru , Berger Bonnie
Published: October 2013

Background

Comprehensive protein-protein interaction (PPI) maps are a powerful resource for uncovering the molecular basis of genetic interactions and providing mechanistic insights. Over the past decade, high-throughput experimental techniques have been developed to generate PPI maps at proteome scale, first using yeast two-hybrid approaches and more recently via affinity purification combined with mass spectrometry (AP-MS). Unfortunately, data from both protocols are prone to both high false positive and false negative rates. To address these issues, many methods have been developed to post-process raw PPI data. However, with few exceptions, these methods only analyze binary experimental data (in which each potential interaction tested is deemed either observed or unobserved), neglecting quantitative information available from AP-MS such as spectral counts.

Results

We propose a novel method for incorporating quantitative information from AP-MS data into existing PPI inference methods that analyze binary interaction data. Our approach introduces a probabilistic framework that models the statistical noise inherent in observations of co-purifications. Using a sampling-based approach, we model the uncertainty of interactions with low spectral counts by generating an ensemble of possible alternative experimental outcomes. We then apply the existing method of choice to each alternative outcome and aggregate results over the ensemble. We validate our approach on three recent AP-MS data sets and demonstrate performance comparable to or better than state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, we provide an in-depth discussion comparing the theoretical bases of existing approaches and identify common aspects that may be key to their performance.

Conclusions

Our sampling framework extends the existing body of work on PPI analysis using binary interaction data to apply to the richer quantitative data now commonly available through AP-MS assays. This framework is quite general, and many enhancements are likely possible. Fruitful future directions may include investigating more sophisticated schemes for converting spectral counts to probabilities and applying the framework to direct protein complex prediction methods.