bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Self-Reported Hearing Difficulty to Objective and Perceived Participation Outside the Home in Older Community-Dwelling Adults
Authors: Mikkola Tuija Maria , Portegijs Erja , Rantakokko Merja , Gagné Jean-Pierre , Rantanen Taina , Viljanen Anne
Published: June 2014

Objective: To investigate whether hearing difficulty is associated with objective and perceived participation in social and leisure activities outside the home in older adults. Method: Self-reported hearing difficulty, frequency of participation, perceived participation and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were obtained from 848 community-dwelling men and women aged 75 to 90. Results: Among persons with MMSE ≤ 24, hearing was not associated with participation. In persons with MMSE > 24, relative to persons who reported no difficulty hearing, participants with major hearing difficulty had a higher odds ratio [OR] for infrequent participation in group activities (OR 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.2, 3.6]) and more restricted perceived participation (OR 2.1, 95% CI [1.2, 3.7]). Participants with and without hearing difficulty did not differ in their frequency of attending non-group activities or meeting (grand)children or acquaintances. Discussion: Hearing difficulty may restrict older adults with normal cognition from participating in social and leisure activities and living their life as they would like to outside the home.
Reliability analysis of corner filling in the tube hydroforming process
Authors: Yang Chen , Li Peng , Hu Yushen , Fan Lixia
Published: June 2014

In the last decade, tube hydroforming has made a great progress in the automotive and aerospace industry. Robust tube hydroforming requires proper consideration of the influence of process uncertainty on process reliability. In this article, uncertainty variables in the tube hydroforming process are identified according to their characteristics. The design variables and noise factors that influence the corner filling process are subsequently screened through a variance analysis. Assuming that the design variables and noise factors follow the normal distribution, the probability distribution of the corner radius is evaluated by incorporating random process variables into the response surface model and implementing the Monte Carlo simulations. A reliability model for the corner filling process is developed in terms of the permissible corner radius interval. The optimal design point with the maximum probability of process safety is obtained using this model.
Temperature evolution and material removal mechanisms in nanosecond-pulsed laser ablation of polycrystalline diamond
Authors: Wu Qi , Wang Jun , Huang Chuanzhen , Li Huaizhong
Published: June 2014

A study of the single-pulsed laser ablation process for a polycrystalline diamond is presented. A simulation of the laser ablation process using a finite element model is carried out to understand the temperature evolution, material removal process and mechanisms, as well as the other physical phenomena associated with this process, that is, carbon phase transformation, liquid-phase ejection and vapour/plasma shielding effect. It is found that mass material removal can be achieved through surface evaporation under a higher laser pulse energy. It is further found that diamond graphitization under laser irradiation is responsible for heat losses due to the large heat accumulation in the graphitized diamond, while cobalt melting suppresses the evaporation of cobalt phase because of the heat consumption for solid–liquid transition. Crater depth and surface formation are also investigated experimentally on the polycrystalline diamond using single-pulsed laser ablation. The predicted crater depths are in reasonably good agreement with the corresponding experimental results.
Analysis of corner filling behavior during tube hydro-forming of rectangular section based on Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman ductile damage model
Authors: Zhang WW , Wang XS , Cui XL , Yuan SJ
Published: June 2014

Friction plays an important role in the corner filling behavior during hydro-forming of rectangular section. In order to study the variation in corner filling behavior with internal pressure under the condition of different coefficients of friction, Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman ductile damage model was used to describe material deformation involving damage evolution. First, an experimental–numerical hybrid method was applied to determine the parameters of critical porosity and failure porosity in Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman ductile damage model. Second, a model describing the deformation behavior was established, in which the deformation zone was divided into three parts: sticking zone, sliding zone and corner zone. Third, the effect of coefficient of friction on the corner filling process was studied through simulation and experiments. The results show that as the internal pressure increases, the sticking zone starts at certain pressure and increases rapidly until taking over the whole contact length. Sticking friction will lead to greater thinning, and bursting occurs rapidly at the transition zone. Furthermore, the increase in the coefficient of friction will lead to greater variation in thinning and corner radius. For µ = 0.05 in experiments, corner filling is acceptable without bursting, correspondingly the final internal pressure is 67 MPa.
Design fatigue life evaluation of high-pressure hydrogen storage vessels based on fracture mechanics
Authors: Zhou Chilou , Li Zhiyuan , Zhao Yongzhi , Hua Zhengli , Ou Kesheng , Zhang Lin , Wen Mao , Xu Ping
Published: June 2014

Design fatigue life of high-pressure hydrogen storage vessels constructed of low alloy steels, austenitic stainless steels, and iron-based superalloy was analyzed based on facture mechanics in 45 MPa, 85 MPa, and 105 MPa hydrogen and air. Cylindrical model was used and the wall thickness of the model was calculated following five regulations including the High Pressure Gas Safety Institute of Japan (KHK) designated equipment inspection regulation, KHKS 0220, Chinese special equipment regulation (TSG) R0002, Chinese machinery industrial standard (JB) 4732, and ASME Sec. VIII, Div. 3. Design fatigue life for four typical model materials was also analyzed to discuss the effect of ultimate tensile strength, pressure, regulations and hydrogen sensitivity on the design fatigue life in hydrogen. It was discussed that hydrogen influence decreases with decreasing pressure or ultimate tensile strength. The design fatigue life data of the model materials under the conditions of pressure, ultimate tensile strength, KIH, fatigue crack growth rates, and regulations in both hydrogen and air were proposed quantitatively for materials selection for high-pressure hydrogen storage vessels.
Experimental and computational analysis of the feed accelerator for a decanter centrifuge
Authors: Bell George RA , Pearse John R
Published: June 2014

Industrial decanter centrifuges are used in a wide range of industries to separate mixtures of solids and liquids. One of the main elements of these devices is the feed accelerator, which accelerates the incoming mixture to the high rotational speed required for separation. A well-designed feed accelerator can increase product throughput, solids recovery, and liquid clarity, while a poorly designed accelerator can increase wear and reduce the overall efficiency of the machine. This article presents experimental and computational quantification of the performance of six feed accelerator designs that are currently used in decanter centrifuges. The experimental method allowed for the measurement of accelerator and pool speed efficiencies, and high-speed photography of the flow in the annular space between the accelerator and the rotating pool. The computational model allowed for prediction of the flow path in the annular space and the torque imparted on the fluid by the accelerator. A parametric study was conducted using the aforementioned computational model for drum and disk accelerators. It was found that several of the accelerator design parameters were critical to the overall performance, reinforcing the need for an optimised design. It was found that increasing the surface area of the port faces of the drum accelerator and increasing the discharge angle and discharge radius for the disk accelerator improved the performance of the accelerators.
Determination of experimental, analytical, and numerical values of tool deflection at ball end milling of inclined surfaces
Authors: Gök Arif , Demirci HI , Gök Kadir
Published: June 2014

The deflections appeared by cutting forces in ball end milling of inclined surfaces can result in defects in workpiece. Finding deflection values has a significant importance for keeping the production within the appropriate tolerances and in lessening production costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate tool deflection values experimentally, analytically, and numerically depending on cutting force in ball end milling of inclined convex and concave surfaces of DIN 1.2344 using TiN-coated cutting tool. The experiments were conducted with different cutting tools strategies and cutting parameters at related parameter levels. During machining, real time cutting tool deflections were recorded by inductive sensors for the experiments. In analytical studies, tool deflections were calculated depending on cutting force using cantilever beam method. In numerical studies, the solution was made with the finite element method. In the implementation of this method, commercial finite element software ANSYS was used. As a result, the values of tool deflections measured experimentally were found to match closely with analytical and numerical studies. The most effective parameters within the selected cutting parameters for both inclined surfaces were found step over and feed rate. At the same time, the measurement of dynamic deflection with inductive sensors was found to be beneficial for three-axis milling operations.
Flight stability of a dual-spin projectile with canards
Authors: Zhu Dalin , Tang Shengjing , Guo Jie , Chen Rui
Published: June 2014

The concept of roll-decoupled course correction fuze with canards can provide a cost-effective solution to improve the delivery accuracy for conventional unguided ammunitions. Due to the dual-spin configuration and canards for such a projectile, the basic projectile stability theory should be extended to well perceive its behavior of motion. The seven degree-of-freedom dynamic equations of motion for the dual-spin projectile are established in the fixed-plane frame and the differential equation for the complex angle of attack is derived by the use of the projectile linear theory without the assumption of a flat trajectory. A revised stability criterion is established according to the Hurwitz stability criterion and analytic solutions of the stability boundaries for trim angles are developed. The new stability criterion can account for the possible flight instability of projectiles subjected to side forces applied at the nose, and can be reduced to the same form as the conventional spin-stabilized projectile case. Moreover, detailed trajectory simulations of two sample projectiles indicate that the new stability criterion gives satisfactory agreement with numerical results.
Quaternion-based attitude control design and hardware-in-the-loop simulation of suborbital modules with cold gas thrusters
Authors: Mousavi S Fazlolah , Roshanian Jafar , Emami M Reza
Published: June 2014

This paper discusses design and implementation of a quaternion-based attitude control system for the short-duration mission of suborbital modules using cold-gas thrusters. The quaternion-based controller generates a command torque for each channel, and a pulse-width pulse-frequency (PWPF) modulator determines the required fire signals for the thrusters. The system performance is examined through both numerical and hardware-in-the-loop simulations.
Flight test validation of the dynamic model of a fuel cell system for ultra-light aircraft
Authors: Correa G , Santarelli M , Borello F , Cestino E , Romeo G
Published: June 2014

The application of fuel cell technology to aircraft propulsion and/or energy supply is attracting a great deal of interest because of the undoubted advantages that can be attained in terms of pollution emissions and noise reduction. The goal of the ENFICA-FC project (Environmentally Friendly Inter City Aircraft powered by Fuel Cells) has been to develop and validate new fuel cell-based power system concepts for more/all electric aircrafts pertaining to the “inter-city” segment of the market. As a result of the project, a technology demonstrator has been designed, manufactured, and tested: a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell-based power system was installed in the Skyleader RAPID200 aircraft which underwent its demonstrative flights in 2010. On the basis of the flight experiences gained during the ENFICA-FC program, the main topic of this paper is the description and validation of the multi-disciplinary dynamic model of the PEMFC-based powertrain of the ultra-light aircraft, fed with a pure hydrogen flow. Within this paper, emphasis is given to the model validation and dynamic system behavior. In order to validate the predicted results, data from real fuel cell flight (two 40-minute missions performed during the ENFICA-FC test campaign) have been used and are presented in this paper.
Feasibility of using mixtures of silicone elastomers and silicone oils to model the mechanical behaviour of biological tissues
Authors: Ahmadzadeh S Mohammad Hassan , Hukins David WL
Published: June 2014

Mixtures of silicone elastomer and silicone oil were prepared and the values of their Young’s moduli, E, determined in compression. The mixtures had volume fractions, [Formula: see text], of silicone oil in the range of 0–0.73. Measurements were made, under displacement control, for strain rates, [Formula: see text], in the range of 0.04–3.85 s−1. The behaviour of [Formula: see text] as a function of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] was investigated using a response surface model. The effects of the two variables were independent for the silicones used in this investigation. As a result, the dependence of E values (measured in MPa) on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] (s−1) could be represented by [Formula: see text]. This means that these silicones can be mixed to give materials with E values in the range of about 0.02–0.57 MPa, which includes E values for many biological tissues. Thus, the mixtures can be used for making models for training health-care professionals and may be useful in some research applications as model tissues that do not exhibit biological variability.
The importance of force terms modeling within the streamline curvature through-flow method
Authors: Templalexis Ioannis K
Published: June 2014

Gas turbine engine performance simulation goes hand in hand with gas turbine engine development, as well as with operational improvement aspects of existing engines. The increasing availability of computational power at an affordable cost is the main drive behind the investment in the development of computer-based, gas turbine engine performance simulation techniques. The current paper refers to through-flow methods. The study is particularly focused on the force terms appearing in the inviscid set of flow equations as a means of balancing explicitly modeled effects. The influence of each force term on the solution stability and accuracy is addressed, as well as the way such terms can be optimally included in the equations causing the least possible numerical discrepancies. The flow simulation tool used for the current study was “SOCRATES,” a through-flow simulation code based on the streamline curvature method. A two-stage axial flow fan was the basis for this study, the findings though stand generally for turbomachinery flow simulation using the streamline curvature method. The main drive behind the current study was the fact that the increasing complexity of the radial equilibrium equation is reflected on the convergence behavior of the flow model and thus on the robustness and computational power consumption of the underlying simulation tool. The paper is structured in two main sections. The first one covers the theoretical background and the description of the simulation tool. The second section presents flow simulation results compared against experimental data. The paper is concluded by summarizing the main findings of this study.
Manufacturing egalitarian injustice: A discursive analysis of the rhetorical strategies used in fathers’ rights websites in Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Busch Robbie , Morgan Mandy , Coombes Leigh
Published: June 2014

The fathers’ rights movement is a worldwide phenomenon that takes a particular form in our geopolitical region. Responding initially to an apparent judicial preference for mothers to have custody of children, the movement grew alongside, and in resistance to, the women’s movement. In this paper, we analyse how texts of fathers’ rights discourse strategically appropriate egalitarianism in the context of gendered struggles over rights within the nuclear family. Texts from four fathers’ rights websites are engaged to locate, construct and critique the discursive power of the movement in Aotearoa/New Zealand. We discuss examples of strategies that appropriate egalitarianism, engage quantifying logic, and demonise women and argue how the fathers’ rights sites exemplify resistance to the impact of the women’s movement on Family Court and criminal justice interventions into violence against women at home.
Pathology or source of power? The construction and experience of premenstrual syndrome within two contrasting cases
Authors: Ussher Jane M , Perz Janette , May Emily
Published: June 2014

This research examines the construction and experience of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in the context of intimate couple relationships, through examination of two contrasting cases analysed using thematic decomposition of narrative interviews. Judith and her male partner pathologised premenstrual change, constructing the premenstrual self as out of control, and the epitome of the ‘monstrous feminine’. Judith reported feeling over-burdened and uncontrollably angry premenstrually, associated with relationship issues and absence of partner recognition or support. In contrast, Sophia normalised premenstrual change, challenging the association between PMS and the construction of woman as deviant or dysfunctional. Sophia reported heightened energy and creativity premenstrually, and engaged in self-care supported by her woman partner. These cases demonstrate that premenstrual distress is an intersubjective experience, with constructions and material practices within relationships providing the context for premenstrual women being positioned as pathological and needing to be contained, or conversely, as sensitive and needing support.
Relative importance of climatic and autogenic controls on Holocene carbon accumulation in a temperate bog in southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Shiller Jennifer A , Finkelstein Sarah A , Cowling Sharon A
Published: June 2014

Peat cores from Wylde Lake Bog in temperate southern Ontario, Canada, were examined to determine factors affecting Holocene ecological change and long-term rate of carbon accumulation (LORCA). By 10,250 cal. BP, a marsh was established, characterized by sediments with higher bulk density, highly decomposed material in the macrofossil record, and lower LORCA. By 8100 cal. BP, the marsh was replaced by a peat-accumulating fen dominated by herbaceous taxa and non- Sphagnum mosses. Around 4000 cal. BP, transition to a Sphagnum-dominated bog took place. These directional changes suggest a strong role for autogenesis, although periodic fluctuations in macrofossil assemblages and in LORCA suggest an important secondary role for climatic change and disturbance in explaining Holocene changes. LORCA remained fairly stable through the fen and bog zones, ~18 g C/m2/yr. In the high-resolution record spanning the most recent 1800 years, relatively higher values for LORCA and macrofossils associated with wetter conditions were recorded around 1400 cal. BP, partially coincident with the ‘Medieval Climate Anomaly’. LORCA decreases to minimum values for the record during part of the ‘Little Ice Age’ as woody macrofossils increase, suggesting a drier peat surface. The most recent portion of the record shows significant changes in LORCA and in bog vegetation associated with anthropogenic land clearance and damming. The charcoal record suggests that fire did not play an important role in peatland dynamics in the pre-industrial Holocene; however, a major anthropogenic fire in ad 1870 significantly altered the peatland, affecting surface vegetation heterogeneously.
Development, carbon accumulation, and radiative forcing of a subarctic fen over the Holocene
Authors: Mathijssen Paul , Tuovinen Juha-Pekka , Lohila Annalea , Aurela Mika , Juutinen Sari , Laurila Tuomas , Niemelä Eerika , Tuittila Eeva-Stiina , Väliranta Minna
Published: June 2014

Three-dimensional reconstructions of peatland development patterns, carbon (C) dynamics and the related radiative forcing (RF) were analyzed to improve understanding of peatland–climate feedback mechanisms. We investigated vertical and horizontal peat growth patterns of a subarctic fen (Lompolojänkkä) located in Finnish Lapland. We calculated C accumulation rates and, based on these and modern gas exchange measurements, developed different scenarios of Holocene carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes and reconstructed the RF driven by these fluxes. Holocene C accumulation rates at Lompolojänkkä ranged between 2 and 30 g C/m2/yr. Plant macrofossil analysis suggests that a fen environment prevailed throughout the Holocene. However, net C accumulation rates showed an extended period of low C accumulation during the mid-Holocene. At the same time, the lateral expansion rate of the peat area also decreased. The C flux scenarios resulted in a positive RF effect (warming) on the atmosphere following peat initiation. The RF turned negative (cooling) several hundreds to 2000 years after peat initiation. Subsequently, the cooling effect increased steadily and was only temporarily interrupted when CH4 emissions were forced to increase in the model. Although climate had an important effect on peatland C dynamics, its influence on RF was buffered by the long-term history of C uptake.
Continental fens in western Canada as effective carbon sinks during the Holocene
Authors: Yu Zicheng , Vitt Dale H , Wieder R Kelman
Published: June 2014

Here, we present results of Holocene carbon accumulation from seven new peat cores at four fen sites from Alberta, western Canada. Along with two other published fen records in the same region, we provide a regional synthesis of carbon accumulation patterns, as well as peat property data in this continental climate. On the basis of >3000 peat sample measurements at 1-cm intervals, organic matter content in peat samples is on average at 91.0% (±9.3% in SD) and ash-free bulk density at 0.141 g/cm3 (±0.045 g/cm3 in SD) with a range of 0.018–0.381 g/cm3. On the basis of 109 radiocarbon age determinations from these cores, the overall mean carbon accumulation rate at these fens since 9 kyr (1 kyr = 1000 cal. yr BP) is 32.5 g C/m2/yr, which is much higher than the northern peatland average of 18.6–22.9 g C/m2/yr from large-scale syntheses. The ‘instantaneous’ apparent carbon accumulation rates from all these individual measurements at mostly 1-cm intervals are highly variable throughout the Holocene, ranging from 6 to 504 g C/m2/yr. The carbon accumulation rates appear to show peak values at 8.3, 6.8, 5.3, 3.8, 2.7, and 1.1 kyr, suggesting a ~1500-year periodicity in carbon accumulation, possibly in response to Holocene climate change. Furthermore, carbon accumulation shows a gradual declining trend from 7 to 2 kyr, reaching a minimum at 2 kyr, likely in response to neoglacial climate cooling during the later part of the Holocene in the high-latitude regions. Overall, these fens accumulated and store on average 264 kg C/m2 during the Holocene, among the highest soil carbon storage reported from terrestrial ecosystems. Our results, along with previous global and regional syntheses, suggest that in contrast to conventional wisdom, fens in continental climates accumulate peat at similar or greater rates than do bogs in oceanic climates.
Practising civilian protection: Human security in Myanmar and Cambodia
Authors: Jacob Cecilia
Published: June 2014

Inspired by the practice turn in the field of international relations, this article contributes to the growing interest in the sociological and potentially transformative nature of the concept of human security, with a specific emphasis on the protection of civilians affected by armed conflict. Drawing on fieldwork conducted in Cambodia and Myanmar on the protection of children affected by armed conflict, it argues for a fresh analysis of human security through the lens of a ‘politics of protection’. By mapping the work of international, government, and non-governmental actors involved in the protection of conflict-affected populations, the article shows that the distinction between welfare/development-oriented approaches and security-oriented approaches creates a protection gap for vulnerable populations in practice. This brings into question the salience of a security–development nexus conceptualization of human security. Instead, a politics of protection lens offers an alternative starting point for the study of security practices in conflict-affected societies, and facilitates a reconceptualization of human security as a transformative approach to contesting the politics and practice of civilian protection.
A Survey of Faculty Mentoring Programs in AACSB Schools of Business
Authors: Raymond Bruce C. , Kannan Vijay R.
Published: June 2014

The human resources management literature offers considerable evidence that mentoring programs can positively influence a variety of measures of both individual and organizational performance. This study examines the use and effectiveness of faculty mentoring programs at business schools in the United States. A survey of 118 schools accredited by the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business found that mentoring programs are the exception rather than the rule. Moreover, many existing mentoring programs lack the strategic focus and structure that are critical to program success. Statistical results indicated that mentoring programs employing best practices achieved greater career and psychosocial benefits as predicted in the mentoring literature. The study offers insights that institutions can use in developing successful mentoring programs, and using them to more effectively leverage faculty resources.
Low Flucloxacillin Concentrations in a Patient With Central Nervous System Infection
Authors: Abdul-Aziz Mohd H. , McDonald Craig , McWhinney Brett , Ungerer Jacobus P. J. , Lipman Jeffrey , Roberts Jason A.
Published: June 2014

Objective: To report the difficulty in achieving and maintaining target antibiotic exposure in critically ill patients with deep-seeded infections. Case Summary: We present a case of a 36-year-old man who was admitted to the intensive care unit with diffuse central nervous system and peripheral methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus infection (minimum inhibitory concentration; MIC, 1 µg/mL). Owing to the complicated nature of the infection, sequential concentrations of free flucloxacillin were measured in plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and used to direct antibiotic dosing. Unsurprisingly, the trough plasma concentrations of flucloxacillin were below the MIC (0.2-0.4 µg/mL), and the corresponding CSF concentrations were undetectable (<0.1 µg/mL) with standard intermittent bolus dosing of 2 g every 4 hours. By administering flucloxacillin by continuous infusion (CI) and increasing the dose to 20 g daily, the plasma (2.2-5.7 µg/mL) and CSF (0.1 µg/mL) levels were increased, albeit lower than the predefined targets (plasma, 40 µg/mL; CSF, 4 µg/mL). Discussion: The presence of physiological changes associated with critical illness—namely, hypoalbuminemia and augmented renal clearance—may significantly alter antibiotic pharmacokinetics, and this phenomenon may lead to suboptimal antibiotic exposure if they are not accounted for. This case also highlights the value of applying CI in such patient groups and demonstrates the significance of monitoring plasma and CSF drug concentrations in optimizing antibiotic delivery. Conclusions: Future research should aim to evaluate the utility of such drug monitoring with regard to patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
Minimally Invasive Reconstruction of the Lateral Ankle Ligaments Using Semitendinosus Autograft or Tendon Allograft
Authors: Xu Xiangyang , Hu Mu , Liu Jinhao , Zhu Yuan , Wang Bibo
Published: June 2014

Background:

The purpose of the study was to retrospectively compare the therapeutic effect between semitendinosus autograft and tendon allograft for lateral ankle ligaments reconstruction.

Methods:

From September 2006 to June 2011, 68 patients (41 males, 27 females) with chronic ankle instability underwent anatomical reconstruction of the lateral ligaments using semitendinosus autograft (autograft group, 32 patients) or tendon allograft (allograft group, 36 patients) via a minimally invasive approach. All patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score (AOFAS score) and stress tests were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Operation time, time to heal and complications were also recorded.

Results:

Compared with allograft group, the average operation time was significantly increased (85.5 ± 11.5 minutes vs 58.1 ± 10.2 minutes, P < .0001), but the mean time to heal was significantly shorter (11.2 ± 4.1 months vs 13.5 ± 5.2 months, P = .0458) in the autograft group. Although the mean AOFAS score was significantly increased at the final follow-up in the autograft group (95.1 ± 7.5 vs 62.3 ± 8.2, P = .0001) and allograft group (94.8 ± 5.5 vs 60.2 ± 8.4, P < .0001), no significant difference in AOFAS was found between these 2 groups. Similarly, there was no significant difference in talar tilt or shift between autograft and allograft groups. In addition, no patients complained of weakness or disability at the donor site in the autograft group, while incisional swelling was observed in 4 patients in the allograft group, which was resolved via dressing change, oral use of indomethacin or dexamethasone.

Conclusion:

Reconstruction of the lateral ankle ligaments using a semitendinosus tendon autograft and a minimally invasive approach was safe and effective for ankle instability with a relatively short time for healing and minimal donor site problems.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative case series.
Rethinking Stimulation of the Brain in Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Plow Ela B. , Cunningham David A. , Varnerin Nicole , Machado Andre
Published: June 2014

Stimulating the brain to drive its adaptive plastic potential is promising to accelerate rehabilitative outcomes in stroke. The ipsilesional primary motor cortex (M1) is invariably facilitated. However, evidence supporting its efficacy is divided, indicating that we may have overgeneralized its potential. Since the M1 and its corticospinal output are frequently damaged in patients with serious lesions and impairments, ipsilesional premotor areas (PMAs) could be useful alternates instead. We base our premise on their higher probability of survival, greater descending projections, and adaptive potential, which is causal for recovery across the seriously impaired. Using a conceptual model, we describe how chronically stimulating PMAs would strongly affect key mechanisms of stroke motor recovery, such as facilitating the plasticity of alternate descending output, restoring interhemispheric balance, and establishing widespread connectivity. Although at this time it is difficult to predict whether PMAs would be “better,” it is important to at least investigate whether they are reasonable substitutes for the M1. Even if the stimulation of the M1 may benefit those with maximum recovery potential, while that of PMAs may only help the more disadvantaged, it may still be reasonable to achieve some recovery across the majority rather than stimulate a single locus fated to be inconsistently effective across all.
Toll-Like Receptor 4 Knockout Protects Against Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Fibrosis
Authors: Dong Rui-qing , Wang Ze-feng , Zhao Can , Gu Hai-rong , Hu Zhuo-wei , Xie Jing , Wu Yong-quan
Published: June 2014

Background:

Toll-like receptor 4 participates in the process of acute heart injury. The underlying mechanisms of its protection are multifactorial, but we hypothesized that toll-like receptor-mediated autophagy control plays a vital role. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of autophagy on cardiac fibrosis.

Methods:

Cardiac fibrosis was induced by subcutaneous isoproterenol (ISO) injection, and rapamycin was simultaneously administered orally for 14 days. Animal echocardiography was then used to evaluate the success of the cardiac fibrosis model, and the mice were killed after the echocardiography examination.

Results:

Toll-like receptor 4 knockout (TLR4 KO) mice had better heart function than did wild-type (WT) mice ( P < .05). Rapamycin treatment reduced the left ventricular ejection fraction to 23.5% ( P < .05), and the collagen volume fraction of the ISO and ISO plus rapamycin groups was 5.9% and 25.9%, respectively, in TLR4 KO mice. Compared with the WT mice, Beclin 1 and autophagy were downregulated in TLR4 KO mice ( P < .05); however, the ISO plus rapamycin group had higher autophagy activity than did the ISO group in TLR4 KO mice ( P < .05).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that TLR4 KO-induced cardioprotection against ISO-induced cardiac fibrosis is associated with reduced autophagy induction. Cardiac fibroblast autophagy participates in its own activation. The moderate inhibition of autophagic activity may be a new strategy for treating cardiac fibrosis.
Civic and Citizen Demands of News Media and Journalists
Authors: van der Wurff Richard , Schoenbach Klaus
Published: June 2014

What do citizens in the Netherlands expect from journalism? A large-scale survey shows that many audience expectations align fairly well with what experts and journalists consider important democratic functions of the press. We refer to these expectations as Civic Demands. In addition, more at odds with the profession’s view, the audience wants journalism to take Citizen Demands into account: the complaints and wishes of citizens. We explore how these demands relate to audience characteristics and news media use. Findings suggest that journalists and citizens could very well cooperate in securing a future for high-quality journalism.
Analyzing Male Attractiveness Models From a Communicative Approach
Authors: Díez-Palomar Javier , Capllonch Marta , Aiello Emilia
Published: June 2014

Although the analysis of male attractiveness models is key to shed light into the prevention of gender-based violence (GBV), it is not always easy to access crucial information about these models. Research shows that inadequate data collection techniques can lead to reproducing superficial arguments confirming existing stereotypes instead of tackling with the real connections. Using communicative daily life stories and communicative focus groups, we take on the challenge of accessing the existing models of male attractiveness’ foundations. These techniques are used to collect data about the specific attractiveness models into which adolescents are socialized and their potential link to violence. We argue that the communicative orientation furthers the scientific understanding of the dominant traditional model of masculinity that socializes into GBV and the new alternative model of masculinity that socializes into its overcoming. The use of communicative techniques is showed to empower participants to question their attractive preferences.
How the Dialogue in Communicative Daily Life Stories Transforms Women’s Analyses of Why They Suffered Gender Violence
Authors: Ramis Mimar , Martín Noemí , Íñiguez Tatiana
Published: June 2014

Research has shown that some battered women have incorporated a discourse that victimizes them again as a consequence of the wrong intervention of external agents (friends, social services, legal systems). They, however, can be active subjects of their personal transformation. This study presents how women are empowered through participation in communicative daily life stories (CDLS), where their life experiences are contrasted with the main scientific contributions from violence against women research. It also discusses the way in which the victimizing discourse is made visible and re-elaborated in the dialogue between the researcher and the women being researched. CDLS do not impose a theoretical discourse that women have to accept, but rather provide the space of dialogue with them to discuss the scientific evidences about gender violence.
Exclusionary and Transformative Dimensions
Authors: Pulido Cristina , Elboj Carmen , Campdepadrós Roger , Cabré Joan
Published: June 2014

Rivalry and lack of solidarity among women, which exist in the social imaginary and are also reproduced in some research, are linked to the perpetuation of gender violence. The analysis of qualitative data collection in research on gender violence is essential to prevent the reproduction of stereotypes and to induce transformation through research. This article is focused on the communicative analysis, which identifies for each category analyzed an exclusionary dimension (that promotes gender violence) and a transformative one (that contributes to preventive socialization of gender violence). Although in our studies we identify rivalry among women as an element of the exclusionary dimension, at the same time, we identify solidarity among women as an element of the transformative dimension. This solidarity breaks with stereotypes of “natural” female rivalry and stands out as one key element to overcome gender violence.
Discrete and homogenized mechanical models for single walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mourad Ayman , Zalzali Ibrahim
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we propose two mechanical models for the single walled carbon nanotubes: (a) a discrete mechanical model at the nanoscale level based on replacing the atomic structure by a discrete lattice of elastic bars and (b) a homogenized continuous mechanical model based on atomistic experimental results on the stretching and angular variations of carbon atomic bonds. Two different interatomic mechanical models (linear and exponential) for the stretching–compression behavior of the carbon–carbon atomic bond have been used. The numerical results show that the homogenized asymptotic model is a good approximation of the full discrete model. The former has the advantage of requiring very little computational resources whereas the latter requires a huge computational cost hence limiting its application to structures with a small number of atoms and atomic bonds. Moreover, the obtained results show that the axial Young’s modulus is almost insensitive to the radius and the chirality but it is very sensitive to the choice of the interatomic mechanical models and their corresponding elastic constants. The linear interatomic model seems to be invalid when used for large deformation of the nanotubes, i.e. it is valid only for small displacements. On the other hand, and most importantly, the stress–strain curves obtained from the homogenized model using the exponential interatomic potential show that the nanotube type determines completely its mechanical characteristics. For instance, the tensile strength and elongation at break are the largest in the case of the armchair nanotubes and the smallest in the case of the zigzag nanotubes.
Autism and the U.K. Secondary School Experience
Authors: Dillon Gayle V. , Underwood Jean D. M. , Freemantle Lauren J.
Published: June 2014

This research investigated the self-reported mainstream school experiences of those diagnosed on the autistic spectrum compared with the typically developing school population. Existing literature identifies four key areas that affect the quality of the school experience for students with autism: social skills, perceived relationships with teaching staff, general school functioning, and interpersonal strengths of the young person. These areas were explored in a mainstream U.K. secondary school with 14 students with autism and 14 age and gender matched students without autism, using self-report questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analyses showed consistent school experiences for both groups, although content analysis of interview data highlighted some differences in the ways in which the groups perceive group work, peers, and teaching staff within school. Implications for school inclusion are discussed, drawing attention to how staff awareness of autism could improve school experience and success for students with autism attending mainstream schools.
Two-lobe geometrically imperfect hybrid journal bearing operating with power law lubricant
Authors: Jain Dharmendra , Sharma Satish C
Published: June 2014

The present paper investigates the influence of journal’s geometric imperfections on the performance of capillary compensated two-lobe hybrid journal bearing system. Different geometric imperfections of journal, viz. barrel, bellmouth and circumferential waviness have been included in the study. A parameter called offset factor has been included in the analysis which distinguishes between two lobe and circular journal bearing. Further, the Reynolds equation has been modified by using power law model in order to deal with non-Newtonian effect of the lubricant. The numerically simulated results indicate that non-circularity of bearing and barrel shape irregularity significantly increase the values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] by a factor 36.47, 51.34 and 18.52%, respectively, with respect to the base bearing (circular ideal journal bearing) operating with non-Newtonian lubricant.
A non-participant observational study of health and social care waste disposal behaviour in the South West of England
Authors: Manzi Sean , Nichols Andrew , Richardson Janet
Published: June 2014

Introduction

The National Health Service in England has a large carbon footprint. Waste production and disposal contributes to this carbon footprint and costs the National Health Service England over £82 million per annum. This study builds on existing work regarding health care waste management in the United Kingdom where the potential for recycling has begun to be studied. The study focuses on a private hospital and social care organizations, and provides a more detailed study of the behaviour of individuals across a variety of waste management systems.

Methods

The study was an overt observational study at four health and social care sites in the South West of England. Systematic observations were made of the waste disposed of by employees in which the observer recorded: a description of the waste item; the bin into which the waste was placed; the type of employee who disposed of the waste; the material the waste comprised and the appropriateness of the disposal behaviour.

Results

The domestic waste bin was found to be most commonly used by employees to dispose of waste (51%), and the materials observed being disposed of most often were paper (26%), organic wastes (19%) and plastic (19%). There were significant differences between the four sites indicating that the activities performed at each site may have been influencing the waste being disposed of.

Conclusion

It was concluded that the transfer of waste from the domestic waste stream to the recycling waste stream should be a central focus for the design of new health and social care waste management systems. Employees will require guidance and training in identifying and classifying waste materials for recycling.
The influence of immersion in the L2 culture on perception of the L1 culture-specific emotion of tęsknota
Authors: Ożańska-Ponikwia Katarzyna
Published: June 2014

Aims/objectives/purpose/ research questions:

This study focuses on the relationship between the immersion in the L2 culture and changes in the perception of the L1 culture-specific emotion of tęsknota. It was designed to research the possible influence of such variables as immersion in the L2 culture, emotional intelligence (EI), frequency of the L1/L2 use and self-perceived L2 proficiency on the perception of emotion of tęsknota.

Design/methodology/approach:

Mixed methods were used in the present study. The qualitative method was used in order to elicit Polish culture-specific emotion of tęsknota by means of presenting the description of the given emotion in the participants’ L1 and L2. Three questionnaires (Personal background questionnaire; L1 and L2 use questionnaire, Trait Emotional Intelligence questionnaire) were used to gather sociobiographical and EI data. The quantitative method was used to gather sociobiographical and EI data.

Data and analysis:

Data from 97 Polish–English late bilinguals and Polish L2 users of English was analysed qualitatively and quantitatively.

Findings/conclusions:

Data analysis showed that clear linguistic differences in the perception of L1 culture-specific emotion of tęsknota emerged between Polish L2 users of English who had never been abroad and Polish–English bilinguals/L2 users who had lived in an English-speaking country, even if both groups were similar as far as age, gender, educational level, EI and self-perceived L2 proficiency is concerned.

Originality:

This is the first study to the best of our knowledge that researches possible changes in the perception of culture-specific Polish emotion of tęsknota among Polish–English bilinguals and Polish L2 users of English.

Significance/implications:

The present research shows that in the case of the participants of this study, proficiency in a foreign language might lead to the conceptual shift in the perception of L1 emotion only while accompanied by immersion/socialisation into L2 culture.
Psychosocial outcomes of a summer overnight recreational experience for children with heart disease
Authors: Bultas Margaret W , Steurer Lisa M , Balakas Karen , Brooks Charlotte , Fields Heidi
Published: June 2014

Children with chronic heart disease (CHD) are often turned away from recreational summer overnight experiences because of complicated medical histories and medication regimens. The purpose of this qualitative study was to evaluate the psychosocial impact of a five-day overnight recreational experience for children with CHD and their parents. Thirty-six children with CHD between the age of 8 and 15 years and their parents participated in the study. Data were collected from the children using photovoice interviews. Parent data were collected using a post camp survey. Results included the following external outcome themes: inclusion in a peer group and the importance of friendship, fun, and safety. Internal or personal outcome themes included counselor as a role model, increased self-confidence, and the realization of life’s possibilities. Parent themes included increased child independence, increased child confidence, and child feelings of normalcy related to belonging to a peer group. Findings from this study can be used to encourage families of children with CHD to allow participation in a well-supervised overnight recreational experience. Such an experience can foster the child’s overall development, provide peer group support, and reduce parent anxiety about overnight separation from the child.