bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reporting the impact of inferior vena cava perforation by filters
Authors: Wood Emily A , Malgor Rafael D , Gasparis Antonios P , Labropoulos Nicos
Published: June 2013

Background

Perforation of the inferior vena cava by filters struts is a known complication. The goal of our review is to assess the impact of inferior vena cava perforation by filters based on an open, voluntary national database.

Methods

We reviewed 3311 adverse events of inferior vena cava filters reported in Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience database from January 2000 to June 2011. Outcomes of interest were incidence of inferior vena cava perforation, type of filter, clinical presentation, and management of the perforation, including retrievability rates.

Results

Three hundred ninety-one (12%) cases of inferior vena cava perforation were reported. The annual distribution of inferior vena cava perforation was 35 cases (9%), varying from seven (2%) to 70 (18%). A three-fold increment in the number of adverse events related to inferior vena cava filters has been noted since 2004. Wall perforation as an incidental finding was the most common presentation ( N = 268, 69%). Surrounding organ involvement was found in 117 cases (30%), with the aorta being the most common in 43 cases (37%), followed by small bowel in 36 (31%). Filters were retrieved in 97 patients (83%) regardless of wall perforation. Twenty-five (26%) cases required an open procedure to remove the filter. Neither major bleeding requiring further intervention nor mortality was reported.

Conclusions

Inferior vena cava perforation by filters remains stable over the studied years despite increasing numbers of adverse events reported. The majority of filters involved in a perforation were retrievable. Filter retrieval, regardless of inferior vena cava wall perforation, is feasible and must be attempted whenever possible in order to avoid complications.
Iliac vein stenting as a durable option for residual stenosis after catheter-directed thrombolysis and angioplasty of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis secondary to May–Thurner syndrome
Authors: Park Jae Young , Ahn Jong Hyuk , Jeon Yong Sun , Cho Soon Gu , Kim Jang Yong , Hong Kee Chun
Published: June 2013

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the primary patency and clinical outcomes after stenting for residual iliac venous stenosis during catheter-directed thrombolysis treatment of acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis arising from May–Thurner syndome.

Methods

A retrospective study was done for the all patients who underwent iliac vein stenting after catheter-directed thrombolysis treatment of acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis due to May–Thurner syndrome from January 2005 to April 2011 in Inha University Hospital. Patient information was assembled from the electronic medical records, imaging and interview. The patency of iliac vein stent was evaluated with serial computed tomography.

Results

Fifty-one patients were enrolled. The median age was 70 years (range 44–86). There were 37 females (72.5%). The duration of symptoms of acute deep vein thrombosis before catheter-directed thrombolysis treatment was 6 days (median, range 1–33). Self-expanding stent was used for iliac vein stenting. Initial technical success rate was 94.1%. There were two complications (3.9%): an arteriovenous fistula formation in left popliteal area and a right inguinal hematoma. Mean follow-up was 15.6 months (range 6 days–80.8 months). Primary patency rate after iliac vein stenting was 95.8% at 6 months, 87.5% at 12 months and 84.3% at 24 months. Four patients had recurrent thrombotic occlusion (7.8%) during the follow-up.

Conclusion

Iliac vein stenting showed good primary patency rate with few complications. Iliac vein stenting is a durable option for residual stenosis after catheter-directed thrombolysis treatment of acute deep vein thrombosis in May–Thurner syndrome.
Place of death, and its relation with underlying cause of death, in Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, and multiple sclerosis: A population-based study
Authors: Sleeman Katherine E , Ho Yuen K , Verne Julia , Glickman Myer , Silber Eli , Gao Wei , Higginson Irene J ,   on behalf of the GUIDE_Care Project
Published: June 2013

Background:

Little is known about place of death in chronic neurological diseases. Mortality statistics are ideal for examining trends in place of death, but analyses are limited by coding rule changes.

Aim:

To examine the relationship between place of death and underlying cause of death in Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease and the impact of coding rule changes on analysis of place of death.

Design:

Population-based study. Proportion ratios for death in hospice, home, care home and hospital were calculated according to underlying cause of death, using multivariable Poisson regression.

Participants:

Deaths in England (1993–2010) with any mention of Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or motor neurone disease as a cause of death, identified from national mortality data.

Results:

In this study, 125,242 patients with Parkinson’s disease, 23,501 with multiple sclerosis, and 27,030 with motor neurone disease were included. Home deaths ranged from 9.7% (Parkinson’s disease) to 27.1% (motor neurone disease), hospice deaths ranged from 0.6% (Parkinson’s disease) to 11.2% (motor neurone disease) and hospital deaths ranged from 43.4% (Parkinson’s disease) to 55.8% (multiple sclerosis). In Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, cancer as underlying cause of death increased likelihood of hospice death (proportion ratio (PR): 18.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 16.1–22.0; 8.88, 95% CI = 7.49–10.5) and home death (PR: 1.91, 95% CI = 1.80–2.04; 1.71, 95% CI = 1.56–1.88). Dementia as underlying cause of death increased likelihood of care home death in Parkinson’s disease (PR: 1.25, 95% CI = 1.19–1.32), multiple sclerosis (PR: 1.73, 95% CI = 1.22–2.45) and motor neurone disease (PR: 2.36, 95% CI = 1.31–4.27).

Conclusions:

Underlying cause of death has a marked effect on place of death. The effects of coding rule changes are an essential consideration for all research using underlying cause of death to study place of death.
Clinical significance of differences between home and clinic systolic blood pressure readings in patients with hypertension
Authors: Masugata Hisashi , Senda Shoichi , Inukai Michio , Himoto Takashi , Hosomi Naohisa , Murao Koji , Okada Hiroki , Goda Fuminori
Published: June 2013

Objectives

To elucidate the clinical significance of differences between home- and clinic-measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) in patients with treated hypertension, and to assess the correlations between SBPs and arterial stiffness.

Methods

Patients with treated hypertension measured their blood pressure (BP) themselves once, at home, in the morning (<1 h after awakening) using an automated oscillometric sphygmomanometer. Clinic BP was measured once, at an outpatient clinic on the same day, using a similar instrument. Arterial stiffness was measured by cardio–ankle vascular index (CAVI). Differences between home and clinic SBPs, and the correlations between CAVI and home SBP, clinic SBP, and the difference between home and clinic SBPs, were analysed.

Results

Seventy-six patients with treated hypertension (mean age, 71 years) were evaluated. There was no statistically significant difference between home and clinic SBP (mean ± SD 132 ± 14 and 133 ± 16 mmHg, respectively). Home SBP showed no correlation with CAVI, whereas clinic SBP showed a weak correlation. The difference between the home and clinic SBP showed a stronger correlation with CAVI, and was statistically significant.

Conclusions

The difference between home- and clinic-measured SBP showed a better correlation with arterial stiffness than did either home or clinic SBP alone.
Proposed Classification of the Feline “Complex” Mammary Tumors as Ductal and Intraductal Papillary Mammary Tumors
Authors: Zappulli V. , Caliari D. , Rasotto R. , Ferro S. , Castagnaro M. , Goldschmidt M.
Published: June 2013

When compared with the canine species, feline mammary tumors (FMTs) are much less heterogeneous, with a predominance of simple malignant neoplasm. Benign FMTs are rare, and it is unclear if complex and mixed tumors exist in the feline. In this study, we selected for immunohistochemical analyses 12 FMTs that had unusual histologic features. A group of 8 (2 benign and 6 malignant) FMTs showed a biphasic epithelial/myoepithelial population and a very regular cord-like distribution in a “Chinese lettering” pattern, within ectatic ducts. A second group (2 benign and 2 malignant) had an intraductal epithelial papillary growth pattern with a basally located monolayer of myoepithelial cells and a supporting fibrovascular stroma. The myoepithelial component always produced a standard immunohistochemical signature. All malignancies were grade I, and the subjects were all alive at 1 year postdiagnosis. On the basis of their morphology, we propose that they be classified as feline ductal adenoma/carcinoma and feline intraductal papillary adenoma/carcinoma, respectively. They overlap with their canine counterparts and lack the typical myoepithelial differentiation patterns seen in canine complex neoplasms, and therefore, the term complex should be avoided in felines. This study will add new information on FMT classification and be useful for prognostic studies.
Canine Melanoma Diagnosis
Authors: Campagne C. , Julé S. , Alleaume C. , Bernex F. , Ezagal J. , Château-Joubert S. , Estrada M. , Aubin-Houzelstein G. , Panthier J.-J. , Egidy G.
Published: June 2013

Melanoma diagnosis in dogs can be challenging due to the variety of histological appearances of canine melanocytic neoplasms. Markers of malignancy are needed. Receptor for activated C-kinase 1 (RACK1) was found to characterize melanomas in other mammals. We investigated the value of RACK1 detection in the classification of 19 cutaneous and 5 mucosal melanocytic neoplasms in dogs. These tumors were categorized as melanocytomas or benign and melanomas or malignant after evaluation of their morphology, mitotic index, and Ki-67 growth fraction. Using immunofluorescence, we confirmed microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) as a marker of normal and transformed melanocytic cells in dog tissues. All control ( n = 10) and tumoral ( n = 24) samples stained positively for MITF (34/34, 100%). Whereas RACK1 was not detected in healthy skin melanocytes, melanocytic lesions were all positive for RACK1 signal (24/24, 100%). RACK1 cytoplasmic staining appeared with 2 distinct distribution patterns: strong, diffuse, and homogeneous or granular and heterogeneous. All melanoma samples (13/13, 100%) stained homogeneously for RACK1. All melanocytomas (11/11, 100%) stained heterogeneously for RACK1. Immunohistochemistry was less consistent than immunofluorescence for all labelings in melanocytic lesions, which were often very pigmented. Thus, the fluorescent RACK1-MITF labeling pattern helped to distinguish melanomas from melanocytomas. Furthermore, RACK1 labeling correlated with 2 of 11 morphological features linked to malignancy: cell and nuclear size. These results suggest that RACK1 may be used as a marker in dog melanomas.
Digital Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs
Authors: Belluco S. , Brisebard E. , Watrelot D. , Pillet E. , Marchal T. , Ponce F.
Published: June 2013

Squamous cell carcinoma represents 47.4% of all malignant canine digital lesions, but despite its frequency, there are few published studies available. Pathology submission records of 154 cases and follow-up of 49 animals were analyzed. On the 49 cases, histological evaluation was performed of the differentiation degree, mitotic index, presence of emboli, and immunohistochemical expression of vimentin and E-cadherin. The mean (SD) age of affected animals was 10.2 (2.3) years; no sex predisposition was recorded. Beauceron and Briard were 2 new overrepresented breeds. Dark-haired animals comprised 97 of 105 (92%); 94 dogs of 125 (75.2%) belonged to large and giant breeds. The forelimb was affected twice more than the hind limb. Probable metastases were observed in 4 dogs; new tumor development was recorded in 11 of 49 (22.4%). Epidemiologic factors, histological grade, mitotic index, and expression of immunohistochemical markers seemed not to be related to the clinical outcome.
Experimental Infection of Bar-Headed Geese (Anser indicus) and Ruddy Shelducks (Tadorna ferruginea) With a Clade 2.3.2 H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Nemeth N. M. , Brown J. D. , Stallknecht D. E. , Howerth E. W. , Newman S. H. , Swayne D. E.
Published: June 2013

Since 2005, clade 2.2 H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses have caused infections and morbidity among numerous species of wild waterfowl in Eurasia and Africa. However, outbreaks associated with clade 2.3.2 viruses have increased since 2009, and viruses within this clade have become the dominant strain of the H5N1 HPAI virus detected in wild birds, reaching endemic status in domestic birds in select regions of Asia. To address questions regarding the emergence and expansion of clade 2.3.2 viruses, 2 waterfowl species repeatedly involved in outbreaks of H5N1 HPAI viruses, bar-headed geese ( Anser indicus) and ruddy shelducks ( Tadorna ferruginea), were inoculated with a representative virus. All of 3 infected ruddy shelducks exhibited neurologic signs and died within 4 to 5 days. Two of 3 infected bar-headed geese had transient weakness but all survived. Viral shedding was predominately via the oropharynx and was detected from 1 to 7 days after inoculation. The severity and distribution of microscopic lesions corresponded with clinical disease and influenza-specific immunohistochemical staining of neurons. The predominant lesions were in the brain and were more severe in ruddy shelducks. Increased caspase-3 reactivity in the brains of all infected birds suggests a role for apoptosis in H5N1 HPAI virus pathogenesis in these species. These results demonstrate that similar to clade 2.2 viruses, a clade 2.3.2 H5N1 HPAI virus is neurotropic in some waterfowl species and can lead to neurologic disease with varying clinical outcomes. This has implications for the role that wild waterfowl may play in transmission of this virus in endemic regions.
Reliability of the Active and Passive Knee Extension Test in Acute Hamstring Injuries
Authors: Reurink Gustaaf , Goudswaard Gert Jan , Oomen Henricus G. , Moen Maarten H. , Tol Johannes L. , Verhaar Jan A.N. , Weir Adam
Published: June 2013

Background:

Hamstring flexibility measurements are of clinical relevance for the prognosis of hamstring injury and for monitoring recovery after such injury. The active knee extension test (AKET) and passive knee extension test (PKET) are proven to be reliable in healthy subjects. Reliability has not been determined in patients with acute hamstring injuries.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine intertester reliability of the AKET and the PKET in patients with acute hamstring injuries.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Fifty consecutive athletes with acute hamstring injuries confirmed with magnetic resonance imaging were included in this study. For each subject, 2 testers performed the AKET and the PKET within 5 days after injury. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable difference (MDD) were determined.

Results:

In the injured leg, the ICC of the AKET was 0.89 and of the PKET 0.77, the SEM of the AKET was 5.3° and of the PKET 7.6°, and the MDD of the AKET of the 15° and of the PKET 21°.

Conclusion:

Good intertester reliability was found for the AKET and the PKET in injured hamstrings. Thus, both tests can be reliably used to assess flexibility in injured hamstrings, despite pain and discomfort during testing.
Quadriceps Tendon Injuries in National Football League Players
Authors: Boublik Martin , Schlegel Theodore F. , Koonce Ryan C. , Genuario James W. , Kinkartz Jason D.
Published: June 2013

Background:

Distal quadriceps tendon tears are uncommon injuries that typically occur in patients older than 40 years of age, and they have a guarded prognosis. Predisposing factors, prodromal findings, mechanisms of injury, treatment guidelines, and recovery expectations are not well described in high-level athletes.

Hypothesis:

Professional American football players with an isolated tear of the quadriceps tendon treated with timely surgical repair will return to their sport.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Fourteen unilateral distal quadriceps tendon tears were identified in National Football League (NFL) players from 1994 to 2004. Team physicians retrospectively reviewed training room and clinic records, operative notes, and imaging studies for each of these players. Data on each player were analyzed to identify variables predicting return to play. A successful outcome was defined as returning to play in regular-season NFL games.

Results:

Eccentric contraction of the quadriceps was the most common mechanism of injury, occurring in 10 players. Only 1 player had antecedent ipsilateral extensor mechanism symptoms. Eleven players had a complete rupture of the quadriceps tendon, and 3 had partial tears. There were no associated knee injuries. All ruptures were treated with surgical repair, 1 of which was delayed after failure of nonoperative treatment. Fifty percent of players returned to play in regular-season NFL games. There was a trend toward earlier draft status for those who returned to play compared with those who did not (draft round, 3.1 ± 2.5 vs 6.0 ± 2.9, respectively; P = .073). For those who returned to play, the average number of games after injury was 40.9 (range, 12-92).

Conclusion:

Quadriceps tendon tears are rare in professional American football players, and they usually occur from eccentric load on the extensor mechanism. Prodromal symptoms and predisposing factors are usually absent. Even with timely surgical repair, there is a low rate of return to play in regular-season games. There is a trend toward early draft rounds for those who successfully return to play.
Heat transfer in vertical casks engulfed in open pool fires
Authors: Sudheer S , Prabhu SV
Published: June 2013

Characterization of the heat transfer to a cask engulfed in pool fire is extremely important. Experiments are carried out on diesel pool fires of diameters 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 m with stainless steel 304L thermal casks of different sizes. Net surface heat flux on the cask is estimated using one-dimensional inverse heat conduction problem code. Velocities of the pool fires are measured using bidirectional probe to estimate the convective heat transfer coefficient ( h). The concept of adiabatic surface temperature, using plate thermometer, is applied to the pool fires and the thermal casks. By employing a mixed boundary condition (adiabatic surface temperature and h) in computational fluid dynamics package, transient temperature and heat flux of the cask are estimated. These predicted data are within 10% of the experimental results. This study demonstrates that the transient adiabatic surface temperature of the pool fire can be used to predict the behavior of the thermal cask engulfed in an open pool fire.
Predictors of Intimate Partner Violence in a Sample of Multiethnic Urban Young Adults
Authors: Acevedo Bianca P. , Lowe Sarah R. , Griffin Kenneth W. , Botvin Gilbert J.
Published: June 2013

The purpose of the present study was to investigate risk and protective factors for intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization in a high-risk sample of predominantly minority young adults from low-income urban communities. Participants were 1,130 individuals (57.9% women) ages 21 to 26 who participated in a telephone interview assessing IPV victimization, violence-related behaviors, and sexual behaviors. Results indicated that about 20.9% of participants reported experiencing one or more IPV incidents in their lifetime. Based on previous research, we examined lifetime violence, lifetime number of sexual partners, number of children, education, and religious service attendance as predictors of IPV. Results from a multivariate logistic regression showed that lifetime violence-related behaviors, number of lifetime sexual partners, and number of children were significant risk factors for IPV. The link between children and IPV risk: (a) was moderated by education for women and men and (b) was stronger for women (vs. men). These findings suggest that training for coping with stress and anger, endorsement of safe sex practices, and greater support for education may be effective strategies for preventing and reducing IPV among high-risk populations.
Intermittent Kangaroo Mother Care
Authors: Davanzo Riccardo , Brovedani Pierpaolo , Travan Laura , Kennedy Jacqueline , Crocetta Anna , Sanesi Cecilia , Strajn Tamara , De Cunto Angela
Published: June 2013

The practice of kangaroo mother care (KMC) is steadily increasing in high-tech settings due to its proven benefits for both infants and parents. In spite of that, clear guidelines about how to implement this method of care are lacking, and as a consequence, some restrictions are applied in many neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), preventing its practice. Based on recommendations from the Expert Group of the International Network on Kangaroo Mother Care, we developed a hospital protocol in the neonatal unit of the Institute for Maternal and Child Health in Trieste, Italy, a level 3 unit, aimed to facilitate and promote KMC implementation in high-tech settings. Our guideline is therefore proposed, based both on current scientific literature and on practical considerations and experience. Future adjustments and improvements would be considered based on increasing clinical KMC use and further knowledge.
The Effects of Manufacturing on Educational Attainment and Real Income
Authors: Donaldson Caitlin Cullen , O’Keefe Suzanne
Published: June 2013

Economic development agencies seek industries to benefit their local economies. This article investigates how manufacturing composition affects a region’s income and educational attainment using data for individuals and Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) from 1970 through 2009. The results provide an understanding of the importance of changes in industry composition on the well-being of residents of an MSA. Using fixed-effects regressions, we model individual educational attainment and real income as a function of manufacturing composition, allowing for nonlinearities through squaring manufacturing composition. Across MSAs, high levels of manufacturing are associated with lower educational attainment and higher income; however, higher growth in manufacturing decreases both educational attainment and income.
Digital Inequality and Participation in the Political Process
Authors: Morris David S. , Morris Jonathan S.
Published: June 2013

This study analyzes whether greater levels of Internet access closed the participation gap between individuals of lower and higher socioeconomic status (SES) in the early stages of the 2012 presidential campaign. Our analysis of data from the Pew Research Center demonstrates that greater levels of access to the Internet are significantly associated with greater political knowledge and engagement for low SES individuals, but not high SES individuals. We explain our results in the context of incidental learning among the disengaged public during high-profile political events, such as a presidential election.
A Review of Warfarin Dosing With Concurrent Acetaminophen Therapy
Authors: Pinson G. Michelle , Beall Jennifer W. , Kyle Jeffrey A.
Published: June 2013

Warfarin is frequently used for the prevention and treatment of thromboembolism, yet it is associated with numerous drug interactions. Regarding over-the-counter pain medications, the preferred analgesic for those patients who are taking warfarin is acetaminophen. There are, however, reports of elevation in the international normalized ratio (INR) in those patients taking concurrent warfarin and acetaminophen. For those practitioners who manage warfarin therapy, there is little guidance regarding management of the drug–drug interaction between warfarin and acetaminophen. This review seeks to evaluate the drug interaction between warfarin and acetaminophen and provides recommendations for concurrent use of these drugs.
High organosolubility of novel asymmetric polyimides-containing benzimidazole rings
Authors: Cheng Zenghan , Xia Qingming , Wang Xinyu , Dong Jie , Zhang Qinghua
Published: June 2013

Two tetramethyl-substituted diphenylmethane diamines, α,α-bis(4-amino-3,5-dimethylphenyl) phenylmethane (BADP) and 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyl-4,4′-diaminodiphenylmethane (TMDA), were synthesized. Two series of novel soluble polyimides (PIs) with high glass transition temperature ( Tg) were derived from 3,3′4,4′-benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride with 6,4′-diamino-2-phenylbenzimidazole and BADP (or TMDA) via one-pot synthesis using anhydrous N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone as a solvent. Precipitation or gelation does not occur during polymerization and imidization, and the resulting products dissolve well in polar aprotic solvents and phenolic solvents. The two series of PI films have good transparency in the visible light region, with a cutoff wavelength at 365 nm and higher than 50% of the transmittance at 450 nm. Tgs are in the range of 381–431°C, and 10% weight loss in nitrogen occurs above 530°C in all cases. Upon increasing BADP (or TMDA) moieties content, the Tg values decrease, whereas the thermal stability tends to increase. Moreover, the PIs-containing TMDA units have a higher thermal stability than those containing BADP units.
Preparation and properties of flame retardant rigid polyurethane foam with phosphorus–nitrogen intumescent flame retardant
Authors: Wu Denghui , Zhao Peihua , Zhang Mei , Liu Yaqing
Published: June 2013

Ethanolamine spirocyclic pentaerythritol bisphosphonate (EMSPB), a novel intumescent flame retardant, was synthesized and used to improve the flame retardancy of rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF). The effects of EMSPB on the flammability, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of RPUF were discussed, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and compression strength tests showed that the EMSPB had favorable compatibility with the RPUF matrix and did not deteriorate the mechanical properties of the RPUF. Flammability of RPUF systems containing various contents of EMSPB was investigated by vertical burning test (UL-94) and limiting oxygen index (LOI) test. Results indicated that when the content of EMSPB was 25 wt%, the LOI of flame retardant RPUF could reach 27.5%, and a UL-94 V-0 rating was achieved. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that RPUF-containing EMSPB had a high yield of residual char at high temperatures, indicating that EMSPB was an effective charring agent. From the SEM observations of the residues of the flame retardant systems burned, the compact charred layers could be seen, which form protective shields to protect effectively the internal structure and inhibited the transmission of heat and heat diffusion during contacting fire.
Synthesis and characterization of highly branched sulfonated poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers as proton exchange membranes
Authors: Guo Wancai , Pang Jinhui , Zhang Limei , Jiang Zhenhua , Zhang Shuling
Published: June 2013

Highly branched sulfonated poly(aryl ether ketone) copolymers (Br-SPAEKs) were synthesized based on 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene) diphenol (A2 monomer), 4,4′-difluorobenzophenone (unsulfonated B2 monomer), 3,3′-disodiumsulfonyl-4,4′-difluorobenzophenone (sulfonated B2 monomer), and 3,4′,5-trifluoro-benzophenone (branched BB2′ monomer). Structures of Br-SPAEKs were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance. Compared to the linear SPAEK (L-SPAEK) copolymer membrane with similar ion exchange capacity, the Br-SPAEK-30 (branched monomer of 20 mol% and sulfonated monomer of 30 mol%) membrane showed higher proton conductivity and lower methanol permeability. This synergistic effect on proton conductivity and methanol permeability was mainly due to the characteristics of large free volume and similar cross-linking architecture arising due to the introduction of the branched monomers. Moreover, the selectivity of the Br-SPAEK-30 membrane is almost three times higher than that of the L-SPAEK membrane. Proton conductivities of Br-SPAEK membranes are higher than 10−2 S cm−1 and increase gradually with increasing temperature. At 80°C, the proton conductivity of the Br-SPAEK-50 (branched monomer of 20 mol% and sulfonated monomer of 50 mol%) membrane reaches 0.127 S cm−1, comparable to that of Nafion-117 (0.139 S cm−1). Additionally, the methanol permeability of Br-SPAEK-50 is one order magnitude lower than that of Nafion-117.
Clinical failure analysis of contemporary ceramic-on-ceramic total hip replacements
Authors: Brandt Jan-M , Gascoyne Trevor C , Guenther Leah E , Allen Andrew , Hedden David R , Turgeon Thomas R , Bohm Eric R
Published: June 2013

The present study investigates the performance of ceramic-on-ceramic total hip replacements by combining a retrieval analysis with a survivorship analysis to elucidate mechanisms that led to clinical failure. Semiquantitative surface damage assessment, contact profilometry, contour measurements, and scanning electron microscopy were performed to characterize the types and quantify the extent of surface damage on the retrieved ceramic components. The implantation period was positively correlated with both damage scores of the femoral heads (R = 0.573, p < 0.001) and the acetabular cups (R = 0.592, p < 0.001). Increased maximal out-of-roundness values of the femoral heads correlated with both increased metal transfer damage score (R = 0.384, p = 0.023) and increased stripe damage score (R = 0.729, p ≤ 0.001) of the acetabular liners. The damage rate (damage score/year) for both the retrieved heads and acetabular liners was at least 2.2-fold greater at inclination angles of >45° than the damage rate at inclination angles of ≤45°. For the retrieved femoral heads only, the linear wear rate of 25.5 ± 21.3 µm/year at inclination angles of >45° was 6-fold greater than the linear wear rate of 4.2 ± 2.3 µm/year at inclination angles of ≤45°. Metal transfer on the ceramic bearing surface could possibly contribute to fluid-film starvation and, in combination with an increased inclination angle, may facilitate an adhesive wear mechanism associated with stripe surface damage. At our institution, the clinical survivorship of ceramic-on-ceramic total hip replacements was 98.9% (a total of 9 out of 815 patients were revised within 10 years after total hip arthroplasty) with revision as the end point, suggesting their safe use in younger patients.
Contribution of posterolateral corner structures to knee joint translational and rotational stabilities: A computational study
Authors: Kim Yoon Hyuk , Purevsuren Tserenchimed , Kim Kyungsoo , Oh Kwang-Jun
Published: June 2013

It has been reported that posterolateral corner structures, including the lateral collateral ligament, the popliteus tendon, and the popliteofibular ligament, may play important roles in reducing external rotational and posterior translational instabilities. However, there are few studies focusing on the quantitative influence of posterolateral corner structures on knee joint stability, due to the difficulty of controlling experimental conditions. In this study, a knee model that included posterolateral corner structures was developed. It was validated by comparison to previous experimental studies using the posterior drawer test, dial test, and varus stress test. The posterior translation, external rotation, and varus rotation were then predicted in order to investigate the contribution of posterolateral corner structures to translational and rotational stabilities. Our results indicate that posterolateral corner structures, including the popliteofibular ligament and the popliteus tendon, could contribute to posterior translational and external rotational stabilities, as clinical observations had suggested. Therefore, the addition of posterolateral corner structures to knee joint models may improve the utility of such models.
Acting on Anger
Authors: Radke Sina , Roelofs Karin , de Bruijn Ellen R. A.
Published: June 2013

Oxytocin attenuates responses to stress and threat (e.g., by fostering social approach in animals), but direct investigations of whether the hormone also facilitates approach-related social behaviors in humans are lacking. To assess approach-avoidance tendencies, we had participants respond to images of happy and angry faces with direct or averted gaze by either pulling a joystick toward themselves (approach) or pushing it away from themselves (avoidance). When given a placebo, participants’ action tendencies were typical, with happy faces eliciting approach responses and angry faces eliciting avoidance responses. However, 24 IU of oxytocin moderated these tendencies, with the inclination to approach angry faces with direct gaze being negatively related to social anxiety. The results demonstrate that oxytocin facilitates approach in humans in response to social threat, which verifies its anxiolytic potential. Moreover, they underscore the moderating role of dispositional factors reported in endocrine research and their therapeutic implications.
Computational modelling of a thermo-acoustic travelling wave engine
Authors: Lawn Chris
Published: June 2013

An engine is being developed to utilise some of the heat of a wood-burning stove to produce a small quantity of electricity. The heat is used to maintain a temperature gradient in a regenerator consisting of very narrow passages in which the gas (air) is in intimate thermal contact with the material. By the thermo-acoustic principle, a strong sound wave can be developed if the regenerator is incorporated in an acoustic loop so that acoustic energy is returned to it and amplified. The excess power generated can be extracted by a linear alternator. This article describes a model of the thermal, acoustic and electrical processes, and a procedure for calculating the performance of a complete loop. Comparison of the computed results with data from three configurations of apparatus shows that the acoustic elements of the problem are quite accurately described. However, there are discrepancies between the calculated thermal and electrical parameters, and the limited measurements for a practically useful arrangement of the components.
Experimental and numerical study on the inlet nozzle of a small squirrel-cage fan
Authors: Wen Xuanfeng , Qi Datong , Mao Yijun , Yang Xin
Published: June 2013

The squirrel-cage fan performance is sensitive to the inlet nozzle configuration. In this paper, an experimental study combined with numerical simulation has been conducted to investigate the effects of the geometry and the installation of the inlet nozzle on the aerodynamic and acoustic performance of a small squirrel-cage fan. Both the eccentric inlet nozzle and the elliptical inlet nozzle with different levels of the eccentricity ratio and the attitude angle have been tested to search an optimal assembly to improve the aerodynamic and acoustic performance of the studied squirrel-cage fan. Based on the experimental result, three-dimensional steady viscous flow fields in the squirrel-cage fan have been simulated to reveal the flow mechanism of the performance improvement. The result indicates that an optimal elliptical inlet nozzle can reduce flow loss before fluid entering into the impeller passages and induce a tip flow pattern, contributing to promote the volume flow rate and suppress the leaking flow loss.
Experimental investigation on heat transfer and friction characteristics of ribbed rectangular channels using steam as coolant
Authors: Shi X , Gao J , Xu L , Shui L , Li F , Liu J
Published: June 2013

Heat transfer and friction characteristics of steam flow in ten different rectangular channels with ribs on two opposite walls have been investigated experimentally in this article. To simulate the actual geometry and heat transfer structure of gas turbine blade/vane internal cooling passage, each of the test channels was made by welding four stainless steel plates. The aspect ratio of these steam-cooled channels was 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2 and 4. The rib angle-of-attack was 30°, 45°, 60° and 90°. The Reynolds number range was 10,000–80,000. The pitch-to-rib height ratio ( p/ e) was kept at 10. The rib height to hydraulic diameter ratios ( e/ D) were 0.078 for W/ H = 0.25 and 0.047 for W/ H = 2, 1 and 0.5. The results show that the highest heat transfer accompanied by the highest friction factor occurred at the rib angle α = 60°. The effect of rib angle on the f/ f0 and the Nu/ Nu0 values is reduced gradually with the channel aspect ratio ranging from 4 to 1/4. When the aspect ratio varies from 0.25 to 4, the Nu values increase 35% and the f/ f0 values increase 4.7 times. Semi-empirical correlations of heat transfer and friction are developed to account for channel aspect ratio, rib angle and Reynolds number.
Dynamic high-frequency behaviour of the swash plate in a variable displacement axial piston pump
Authors: Achten Peter
Published: June 2013

In variable displacement axial piston pumps and motors, the rotation of the barrel causes a strong vibrating torque load on the variable displacement components, that is, on the swash plate. In most analysis, this vibrating torque is counteracted by a mechanical end stop, thereby forcing a constant swash plate angle. However, in real pump and motor operation, the swash plate is not held mechanically. Instead, the position of the swash plate is defined by a hydraulic control system. The vibrating torque load on the swash block is compensated by the control piston and cylinder, in which the pressure changes dynamically, as a reflection of the dynamic torque load created by the rotating barrel. The variation of the control pressure demands the swash plate to oscillate around the average swash plate position, which is defined by the control system of the pump (or motor). In this study, the vibrating movement of the swash plate is measured in a variable displacement floating cup pump. The floating cup principle features two swash plates, which are operated out of phase. This has given the opportunity to connect the control systems of both swash plates by means of a restriction. The experiments have shown that the swash plate vibration has a significant effect on the displacement of the individual pistons, while commutating in and around the top and bottom dead centres. The study shows that the swash plate vibration needs to be included in the analysis of variable displacement axial piston pumps and motors.
Re-deposited cryptotephra layers in Holocene peats linked to anthropogenic activity
Authors: Swindles Graeme T , Galloway Jennifer , Outram Zoe , Turner Kathryn , Schofield J Edward , Newton Anthony J , Dugmore Andrew J , Church Mike J , Watson Elizabeth J , Batt Cathy , Bond Julie , Edwards Kevin J , Turner Val , Bashford Daniel
Published: June 2013

Tephra layers can form useful age-equivalent stratigraphic markers for correlating palaeoenvironmental sequences and they provide information about the spatio-temporal nature of past volcanic ash fall events. The use of microscopic ‘cryptotephra’ layers has both increased the stratigraphic resolution of tephra sequences in proximal areas and extended the distal application of tephrochronology to regions of the world situated far from volcanoes. Effective tephrochronology requires the discrimination between in situ tephra deposited directly from volcanic plumes and tephras that have been remobilised since their initial deposition. We present tephrostratigraphic and glass chemistry data from two proximal peat profiles (one lowland, one upland) from the Shetland Islands, UK. Both profiles contain the Hekla-Selsund tephra (deposited c. 1800–1750 cal. bc), whilst the Hekla 4 ash (c. 2395–2279 cal. bc) is present in the upland record. Overlying the Hekla-Selsund tephra are a number of distinct peaks in tephra shard abundance. The geochemistry of these layers shows that they represent re-working of the Hekla 4 and Hekla-Selsund layers rather than primary air-fall deposits. Pollen analysis of the peat sequences illustrates that these re-deposited tephra layers are coincident with a rise in heather-dominated vegetation communities (heath and/or moorland) and a subsequent intensification of burning in the landscape. We suggest that burning caused increased erosion of peats resulting in the remobilisation of tephra shards. The study demonstrates both the need for caution and the opportunities created when applying tephrochronologies in regions heavily affected by past human activity that contain both reworked tephra layers and in situ fallout.
Step by Step
Authors: Rutjens Bastiaan T. , van Harreveld Frenk , van der Pligt Joop
Published: June 2013

People are motivated to maintain the belief that they live in an orderly world in which things are under control. Previous research has shown that perceptions of order can be maintained via two routes: affirming personal control over one’s life and future outcomes, and bolstering one’s belief in external systems or agents that exert control over the world. Both religion and sociopolitical institutions can provide subjective and socially sanctioned security in the context of low personal control or disorder in one’s environment. In this article, we argue that belief in science and progress could serve a similar function. Science is not only assumed to simplify people’s lives; it also creates a sense of order and predictability. We show that perceiving order (regardless of external agency) can be sufficient to combat lack of control, and that perceptions of order can be derived from science and from more general beliefs about progress. We also discuss findings from our research addressing the processes underlying these effects and the functionality of compensatory beliefs and perceptions. We conclude that endorsing scientific theories and beliefs in societal and scientific progress helps people regulate threats to order and control, as long as these theories and beliefs suggest that the world is (or will be) an orderly place.
Extraversion and Reward Processing
Authors: Smillie Luke D.
Published: June 2013

Reward processes have played an increasingly visible role in theories of extraverted personality. Reward processing is usually conceptualized in terms of the brain system responsible for generating incentive motivation and behavioral approach of rewarding stimuli, as in theories by Jeffrey Gray and Richard Depue. Recent increases in the accessibility of neuroscience methods have accelerated our understanding of the relationship between extraversion and neural processing of rewards. An issue that has remained somewhat neglected by this literature concerns the distinctions that have been made between reward desire and reward enjoyment. Higher-level abstractions of reward processing—identifiable in cognitive, social, and narrative approaches—have also received relatively little attention. These promising directions for future research may help further expand knowledge in this area of personality science.
Beyond Conflict Monitoring
Authors: Brown Joshua W.
Published: June 2013

Cognitive control refers to the processes by which individual cognitive functions are coordinated in the service of higher-level goals. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in the middle front of the brain monitors performance, and it is activated when the need for control increases—for instance, in difficult situations or when errors occur. Since the late 1990s, the ACC has been thought to signal when there is conflict between competing action plans so that the conflict can be resolved. More recently, an alternative model has reconceptualized the role of ACC as that of a predictor and evaluator of the likely outcomes of planned actions before the actions are performed. This new Predicted Response Outcome model accounts for a broader range of findings than the earlier framework and suggests that the ACC might support the cognitive operations by which individuals can “think before they act” in order to avoid risky or otherwise poor choices.
Moral Judgment and Action in Preverbal Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Hamlin J. Kiley
Published: June 2013

Although developmental psychologists traditionally explore morality from a learning and development perspective, some aspects of the human moral sense may be built-in, having evolved to sustain collective action and cooperation as required for successful group living. In this article, I review a recent body of research with infants and toddlers, demonstrating surprisingly sophisticated and flexible moral behavior and evaluation in a preverbal population whose opportunity for moral learning is limited at best. Although this work itself is in its infancy, it supports theoretical claims that human morality is a core aspect of human nature.
Identification With All Humanity as a Moral Concept and Psychological Construct
Authors: McFarland Sam , Brown Derek , Webb Matthew
Published: June 2013

Studies of those who rescued Jews during the Holocaust suggest that their most shared quality was a sense “of belonging to one human family” (Monroe, 1996, p. 205), caring deeply about human beings without regard for their race, religion, or other distinction. In this article, we first note the development of the concept of “one humanity” since the late 15th century, and then we summarize recent work with a new measure of that caring—the Identification With All Humanity Scale (IWAH). Research with the IWAH establishes that identification with all humanity is more than (a) an absence of prejudice and its sources and (b) the sum of positive qualities, such as dispositional empathy and principled moral reasoning. Many people appear to intuit that a mature moral person would identify with all humanity, even when they do not do so themselves. Finally, a brief discussion is offered of how identification with all humanity may develop or could be taught.
Effects of Size on Collision Perception and Implications for Perceptual Theory and Transportation Safety
Authors: DeLucia Patricia R.
Published: June 2013

People avoid collisions when they walk or drive, and they create collisions when they hit balls or tackle opponents. To do so, people rely on the perception of depth (perception of objects’ locations) and time-to-collision (perception of when a collision will occur), which are supported by different information sources. Depth cues, such as relative size, provide heuristics for relative depth, whereas optical invariants, such as tau, provide reliable time-to-collision information. One would expect people to rely on invariants rather than depth cues, but the size-arrival effect shows the contrary: People reported that a large far approaching object would hit them sooner than a small near object that would have hit first. This effect of size on collision perception violates theories of time-to-collision perception based solely on the invariant tau and suggests that perception is based on multiple information sources, including heuristics. The size-arrival effect potentially can lead drivers to misjudge when a vehicle would arrive at an intersection and is considered a contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. In this article, I review research on the size-arrival effect and its theoretical and practical implications.