bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stages of User Activity Model as a Basis for User-System Interface Evaluations
Authors: Cuomo Donna L. , Bowen Charles D.
Published: July 2017

This paper discusses the results of the first phase of a research project concerned with developing methods and measures of user-system interface effectiveness for command and control systems with graphical, direct manipulation style interfaces. Due to the increased use of prototyping user interfaces during concept definition and demonstration/validation phases, the opportunity exists for human factors engineers to apply evaluation methodologies early enough in the life cycle to make an impact on system design. Understanding and improving user-system interface (USI) evaluation techniques is critical to this process. In 1986, Norman proposed a descriptive “stages of user activity” model of human-computer interaction. Hutchins, Hollin, and Norman (1986) proposed concepts of measures based on the model which would assess the directness of the engagements between the user and the interface at each stage of the model. This first phase of our research program involved applying three USI evaluation techniques to a single interface, and assessing which, if any, provided information on the directness of engagement at each stage of Norman's model. We also classified the problem types identified according to the Smith and Mosier (1986) functional areas. The three techniques used were cognitive walkthrough, heuristic evaluation, and guidelines. It was found that the cognitive walkthrough method applied almost exclusively to the action specification stage. The guidelines were applicable to more of the stages evaluated but all the techniques were weak in measuring semantic distance and all of the stages on the evaluation side of the HCI activity cycle. Improvements to existing or new techniques are required for evaluating the directness of engagement for graphical, direct manipulation style interfaces.
Smallpox: Implications for Infection Control Practitioners — Part Two
Authors: Kretzer D
Published: July 2017

In this, the second of a two-part article, the implications of smallpox for infection control practitioners are examined. Since the events in New York on 11 September 2001, there has been renewed speculation about terrorists' abilities to initiate biological warfare using highly infectious diseases such as smallpox. There is no effective cure for smallpox and current infection control strategies rely heavily on heightened surveillance, isolation techniques and vaccination of susceptible individuals. Much of the world's population has neither been exposed to the smallpox virus nor vaccinated against it, and so is vulnerable to infection. Furthermore, many healthcare staff have no experience with diagnosis, management or prevention of smallpox and there is a risk that the disease may spread rapidly if it is not recognised quickly. Smallpox begins with non-specific symptoms that can occur with many viral illnesses; misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis is a very real risk, even in the presence of a rash. This situation has fuelled debate that pre-emptive mass vaccination against smallpox should be introduced to protect the population from the threat of a deliberate release of smallpox.
Hypertrophie Scars and Keloids: An Overview of the Aetiology and Management
Authors: Azad Sanjay M , Gerrish John , Dziewulski Peter
Published: July 2017

Hypertrophic scars and keloids are a common surgical problem. There is increasing knowledge of the pathology of this condition but the exact pathogenesis is yet unknown. Treatment remains difficult and is associated with high recurrence rates in certain forms. The psychological implications for the patient are enormous and have still to be fully defined. This article is a review of the current aetiology, pathology and management of hypertrophic scars and keloids. Various treatment options are discussed and psychological aspects have been emphasised.
The Role of Ultrasound in the Treatment of Surgically Repaired Tendon Injuries of the Hand: A Literature Review
Authors: Rodger James
Published: July 2017

Ultrasound has long been established as a treatment for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. This paper considers the role of ultrasound in the management of tendon injuries of the hand. The basic physics of the modality will be outlined and the thermal and non-thermal therapeutic effects considered. The evidence for the effectiveness of the modality in the inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases of healing is discussed. Research that has considered the direct effect of ultrasound on tendon healing is also examined. Attention is paid to special considerations for the use of the modality in hand therapy. In conclusion it would seem that there is a lack of quality research in the area of clinical ultrasound and there is a need for further research.
Post-Traumatic Reconstruction in a Musician Highlighting Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation — A Case-Study
Authors: Warrington Joan
Published: July 2017

A multidisciplinary approach is essential to achieve a successful return to professional music making for musicians. This is evident in the following case involving a 48-year-old professional violinist.
Intrinsic and Extrinsic Tightness - The Importance of the ‘Pre-Splint’ Test to Determine MCP Inclusion and Position in Orthotics
Authors: van Veldhoven Griet
Published: July 2017

Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint mobilisation splints are often requested in the management of restricted PIP joint mobility. Two tests, which are quick and easy to carry out can provide the therapist with the necessary information to ensure that the correct splint is made.
Creativity in Splinting
Authors: van Veldhoven Griet
Published: July 2017

Creativity is an essential part of being an occupational therapist. During the fabrication of a splint, creativity is used to increase the co-operation of the patient by making funny and/or aesthetic splints. Limited resources within occupational therapy departments can force us to be extra creative in the choice of materials used during the fabrication of splints. The purpose of this article is to describe and discuss the potential use of materials that can be used during splint making.
Comparing the Responsiveness over Time of Two Tactile Gnosis Tests: Two-Point Discrimination and the STI-Test
Authors: Rosén Brigitta , Jerosch-Herold Christina
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the responsiveness over time of a new instrument for the assessment of tactile gnosis after nerve repair to the hand - the shape texture identification (STI) test and to compare this to an existing tactile gnosis test - the two-point discrimination test (2PD).

In order to assess the instruments ability to detect clinical change over time a cohort of 32 patients with 37 complete or partial median and/or ulnar nerve repair or double digital nerve repairs were assessed on three occasions over a six months period. Only patients with a touch detection threshold of 2g (Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament 4.31) or less, indicating presence of some protective sensibility, were included in the study. All patients received the same information and were given a standard sensory re-education programme after the initial assessment.

The results from the STI test were analysed longitudinally with the Wilcoxon signed rank test and Standard Response Mean (SRM) was used to estimate the responsiveness and size of change over time. The results were compared to results from the two-point discrimination test.

Between the first and second follow-up the STI-test detected improvements which were statistically significant (p=0.001). An improvement was also noted between the second and third test occasion, however this did not reach statistical significance. Results from the two-point discrimination test showed a flooring effect and change was only detected in the partial nerve repairs, between the first and last assessment.

We conclude that the STI test is sensitive to change and should be used as an alternative to or at least complement the 2PD test when evaluating tactile gnosis after nerve repair.
Clinical Assessment of the Hand - A Review of Joint Angle Measures
Authors: Ellis Bridget , Bruton Anne
Published: July 2017

Measurement of range of motion (ROM) at a joint is regarded by many clinicians as objective and is therefore frequently used as an assessment tool. There are many methods of measurements available to the clinician and the researcher, but information about their reliability may be less accessible. Some techniques of measurement, such as goniometry, have been studied frequently, whereas other popular techniques have little or no published evidence to support their use. The aim of this paper is to summarise the results from the literature surrounding methods of measurement, particularly those concerned with hand assessment.
Hand Assessment in a Swedish Hand Rehabilitation Unit
Authors: Cederlund Ragnhild
Published: July 2017

This paper gives a presentation of the most frequently used hand assessment instruments in the Rehabilitation Unit in the Department of Hand Surgery in Malmo, Sweden.
Inter-Rater Reliability of Two Trained Raters Using a Goniometer for the Measurement of Finger Joints
Authors: Goldsmith Nicola , Juzl Elaine
Published: July 2017

At the hand therapy unit at the Wellington Hospital, two of the hand therapists undertook a study to establish their intra and inter-rater reliability. Intra-rater reliability was tested on asymptomatic hands whereas inter-rater reliability was investigated using patients. For the latter, 138 finger joints were measured in extension and flexion. The results showed that intra-rater reliability was 0.999 for both raters. For inter-rater reliability, the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient was calculated to be 0.993. A second calculation, of percentage agreement, was carried out to help establish how many degrees of movement a patient is required to achieve to produce a reliable conclusion that there had been a change.
The Scaphoid Splint
Authors: Drummond-Murray Claudia
Published: July 2017

Nonunions and malunions in fractures of the wrist, for example, scaphoid fractures have always been a problem due to long periods of immobilisation in a plaster cast, thus resulting in pain, weakness and stiffness of the wrist and sometimes of hand and forearm.
Evidence-Based Practice - How to Critically Appraise a Research Paper Part II. Interpreting the Findings and Their Applicability to Practice
Authors: Jerosch-Herold Christina
Published: July 2017

Critical appraisal of research papers can be made easier through the use of a structured review instrument. The first part of this paper considered questions about the purpose and design of a clinical trial. Interpreting the findings of a study requires some understanding of concepts such as probability and significance. This section will explain some of the more commonly used statistical terms and concludes the critical appraisal of a research paper by discussing how to assess the validity of the findings and their applicability to your own practice.
The Challenge of Starting Hand Therapy in Uruguay
Authors: Harreau Jeanine
Published: July 2017

In 1983 I was awarded a Fullbright scholarship to come to the United States, up until then I had been working as a Paediatric Physical Therapist in a Children's Hospital and in private practice.
Pressure Therapy in the Treatment of Hand Injuries
Authors: Kennedy Sue
Published: July 2017

Since talking to other therapists there seems to be some debate about the effectiveness and use of custom-made pressure garments in the treatment of hand injury. Those of us who make our own in a matter of minutes with the patient sat in front of us, know that they can be a fast means of reducing oedema in the digits and the hand, and in the longer term use can flatten potentially hypertrophic scars that can cause contracture. Lycra pressure garments are safer to use with unreliable patients than coban bandage, because they are made to fit the patient. For anyone in doubt I offer the following case study for you to compare with Sonia Ranelli's patient in the Spring 1998 issue of the British Journal of Hand Therapy, who was unable to wear a pressure garment when she returned to work as a veterinary nurse.
The Anatomy of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint and the Extensor Mechanism of the Finger
Authors: Flemming F. Stewart
Published: July 2017

The renowned American hand surgeon Ray Curtis has described the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint as the epicentre of hand surgery. Those of you that have dealt with problems of the PIP joint will understand the wisdom of this statement. Part, if not most, of the problem in dealing with the PIP joints is the very nature of the anatomy and the proximity of so many structures around this small area. The joint is a marvel of engineering construction though frequently described as a hinge joint this is a gross oversimplification.
Injuries of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint
Authors: Bain Gregory I , Roth James H , Mehta Janak A
Published: July 2017

Proximal interphalangeal joint injuries are common in athletes. In this article the authors discuss the spectrum of injuries of the PIP joint. The clinical and radiological assessment of these injuries will be presented. The principles and options of treatment are outlined. The complications and their possible prevention are discussed.
Propylactic Splintage of the 5th MCP Joint in Dorsal Hand Burns
Authors: Kennedy Sue , Peck Fiona , Stone Judith
Published: July 2017

Deep burns over the dorso-lateral aspect of the hand can lead to hyperextension of the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint and flexion of the PIP joint as a result of scar contracture. Weakness of intrinsic musculature inhibits active correction. Thermoplastic night splintage is often inadequate in prophylaxis of this deformity and daytime splintage, which allows functional activity is necessary. The flexion device described can be worn day and night with the joint in varying degrees of flexion. Used prophylactically, with an exercise regime, this deformity can be prevented in burns and in other cases of hand injury.
Nerve Repair and Regeneration
Authors: Irwin Michael S.
Published: July 2017

An innervated hand is fundamental to our everyday activities. Motor competence aids manual dexterity and sensory proficiency is essential for tactile gnosis. Peripheral nerve injuries are a major source of chronic disability and all effort should be made to optimise functional recovery. Thorough motor and sensory assessment will define the extent of an injury and allow surveillance of returning function post repair. The restorative techniques employed aim to maximise the number of regenerating nerve fibres correctly reaching appropriate target organs in the shortest time possible after injury. Processes like sensory re-education can then optimise the cortical interpretation of new signals returning to the brain. A comprehension of the macroscopic and microscopic features of peripheral nerve repair and regeneration is beneficial to all health professionals working in this field.
The Role of the Fifth Metacarpophalangeal Joint in the Recovery of the Burnt Hand - is it Great or Small?
Authors: Collings Jenny
Published: July 2017

Clinical observation has shown that despite complying with text book regimes of exercises and splinting the outcome for some patients with partial thickness burns is extension contracture of the Fifth Metacarpophalangeal Joint (5th MCP joint).

This observation led to a review of the architecture and biomechanics of the hand in order to consider what could improve hand function following recovery of a thermal injury.

This paper reviews the architecture and biomechanics of the burnt hand and suggests that in the short term, the 5th MCP joint plays a central role in returning the hand to maximum function.

With this in mind a modified form of treatment has been adopted focusing attention on the 5th MCP joint and related structures.
Subtip Revascularisation in a Neoneate
Authors: Peck Fiona , Kennedy Sue
Published: July 2017

The finger of a neonate was almost completely severed as his umbilical cord was cut at birth. This case study documents the successful revascularisation of the digit, the subsequent therapy management and the results of the injury one year postoperatively.
A Study on Mode Transition Control between PCI and Conventional Combustion in a Diesel Engine
Authors: Tanabe K , Komatsu F , Nakayama S
Published: July 2017

For the development of practical applications of premixed compression ignition (PCI) combustion, it is necessary to ensure its robustness to both environmental conditions and fuel properties. Furthermore, combustion mode transition between PCI and conventional combustion in the dual-mode operation is required as PCI combustion is limited only in light-to-medium load operation. A simple mode transition scheme, however, tends to result in an increase in exhaust emissions. In this study, a new strategy to control mode transition with minimized oxides of nitrogen (NO x) and smoke spikes in transition was developed. In the control system, a real- time calculation of the heat release rate was performed using the in-cylinder pressure diagram for the feedback control of mode transition. The effectiveness of the mode transition control system developed here was evaluated in the JE05 transient test cycle. As a result, it was confirmed that the mode transition control system which controls fuel injection and air management systems using parameters such as a combustion index (MFB50 angle), intake oxygen (O2) concentration, and excess air ratio allowed smooth combustion mode transition without increased exhaust emissions.
Strict tropism for CD71+/CD234+ human reticulocytes limits the zoonotic potential of Plasmodium cynomolgi
Authors: Kosaisavee Varakorn , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Chua Adeline C. Y. , Kyle Dennis E. , Malleret Benoit , Zhang Rou , Imwong Mallika , Imerbsin Rawiwan , Ubalee Ratawan , Sámano-Sánchez Hugo , Yeung Bryan K. S. , Ong Jessica J. Y. , Lombardini Eric , Nosten François , Tan Kevin S. W. , Bifani Pablo , Snounou Georges , Rénia Laurent , Russell Bruce
Published: July 2017

Key Points

Zoonotic P cynomolgi switches red cell tropism for reticulocytes expressing Trf1 (CD71+) and DARC (CD234+). In the human host, P cynomolgi displays an almost identical rheopathobiology to P vivax.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Ang II-AT2R increases mesenchymal stem cell migration by signaling through the FAK and RhoA/Cdc42 pathways in vitro
Authors: Xu Xiu-ping , He Hong-li , Hu Shu-ling , Han Ji-bin , Huang Li-li , Xu Jing-yuan , Xie Jian-feng , Liu Ai-ran , Yang Yi , Qiu Hai-bo
Published: July 2017

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) migrate via the bloodstream to sites of injury and are possibly attracted by inflammatory factors. As a proinflammatory mediator, angiotensin II (Ang II) reportedly enhances the migration of various cell types by signaling via the Ang II receptor in vitro. However, few studies have focused on the effects of Ang II on MSC migration and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

Human bone marrow MSCs migration was measured using wound healing and Boyden chamber migration assays after treatments with different concentrations of Ang II, an AT1R antagonist (Losartan), and/or an AT2R antagonist (PD-123319). To exclude the effect of proliferation on MSC migration, we measured MSC proliferation after stimulation with the same concentration of Ang II. Additionally, we employed the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitor PF-573228, RhoA inhibitor C3 transferase, Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766, or Cdc42 inhibitor ML141 to investigate the role of cell adhesion proteins and the Rho-GTPase protein family (RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42) in Ang II-mediated MSC migration. Cell adhesion proteins (FAK, Talin, and Vinculin) were detected by western blot analysis. The Rho-GTPase family protein activities were assessed by G-LISA and F-actin levels, which reflect actin cytoskeletal organization, were detected by using immunofluorescence.

Results

Human bone marrow MSCs constitutively expressed AT1R and AT2R. Additionally, Ang II increased MSC migration in an AT2R-dependent manner. Notably, Ang II-enhanced migration was not mediated by Ang II-mediated cell proliferation. Interestingly, Ang II-enhanced migration was mediated by FAK activation, which was critical for the formation of focal contacts, as evidenced by increased Talin and Vinculin expression. Moreover, RhoA and Cdc42 were activated by FAK to increase cytoskeletal organization, thus promoting cell contraction. Furthermore, FAK, Talin, and Vinculin activation and F-actin reorganization in response to Ang II were prevented by PD-123319 but not Losartan, indicating that FAK activation and F-actin reorganization were downstream of AT2R.

Conclusions

These data indicate that Ang II-AT2R regulates human bone marrow MSC migration by signaling through the FAK and RhoA/Cdc42 pathways. This study provides insights into the mechanisms by which MSCs home to injury sites and will enable the rational design of targeted therapies to improve MSC engraftment.
HIV and HIV-Tat inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human macrophages by distinct intracellular signaling pathways
Authors: Gajanayaka Niranjala , O'Hara Shifawn , Konarski Yulia , Fernandes Jason , Muthumani Kar , Kozlowski Maya , Angel Jonathan B , Kumar Ashok
Published: July 2017

Monocyte-derived Mϕs (MDMs) from HIV-infected patients and MDM infected in vitro with HIV exhibit a reduced ability to secrete various cytokines, including IL-12. Recently, IL-27, an IL-12 family cytokine, was shown to inhibit HIV replication in Mϕ. Whether HIV infection or HIV accessory protein(s) impact IL-27 production in Mϕs remains unknown. Herein, we show that in vitro HIV infection, as well as intracellular HIV-Tat (Tat) and Tat peptides, inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human MDMs, suggesting impairment of the TLR4 signaling pathway. To understand the signaling pathways governing HIV or Tat-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced IL-27 production, we first demonstrated that p38 MAPK, PI3K, Src-homology region 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1), and Src kinases regulate LPS-induced IL-27 production in MDMs. Tat caused down-regulation of TNFR-associated factor (TRAF)-6 and inhibitor of apoptosis 1 (cIAP-1) and subsequently decreased phosphorylation of downstream PI3K and p38 MAPKs, which were implicated in LPS-induced IL-27 production. Whereas SHP-1 and Src kinases regulated LPS-induced IL-27 production, Tat did not inhibit these kinases, suggesting that they were not involved in Tat-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced IL-27 production. In contrast to Tat, in vitro HIV infection of MDM inhibited LPS-induced IL-27 production via inhibition of p38 MAPK activation. Overall, HIV and Tat inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human macrophages via distinct mechanisms: Tat through the inhibition of cIAP-1–TRAF-6 and subsequent inhibition of PI3K and p38 MAPKs, whereas HIV through the inhibition of p38 MAPK activation.
Abnormal Calcium Levels During Trauma Resuscitation Are Associated With Increased Mortality, Increased Blood Product Use, and Greater Hospital Resource Consumption: A Pilot Investigation
Authors: MacKay Emily J. , Stubna Michael D. , Holena Daniel N. , Reilly Patrick M. , Seamon Mark J. , Smith Brian P. , Kaplan Lewis J. , Cannon Jeremy W.
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND:

Admission hypocalcemia predicts both massive transfusion and mortality in severely injured patients. However, the effect of calcium derangements during resuscitation remains unexplored. We hypothesize that any hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia (either primary or from overcorrection) in the first 24 hours after severe injury is associated with increased mortality.

METHODS:

All patients at our institution with massive transfusion protocol activation from January 2013 through December 2014 were identified. Patients transferred from another hospital, those not transfused, those with no ionized calcium (Ca2+) measured, and those who expired in the trauma bay were excluded. Hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia were defined as any level outside the normal range of Ca2+ at our institution (1–1.25 mmol/L). Receiver operator curve analysis was also used to further examine significant thresholds for both hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia. Hospital mortality was compared between groups. Secondary outcomes included advanced cardiovascular life support, damage control surgery, ventilator days, and intensive care unit days.

RESULTS:

The massive transfusion protocol was activated for 77 patients of whom 36 were excluded leaving 41 for analysis. Hypocalcemia occurred in 35 (85%) patients and hypercalcemia occurred in 9 (22%). Mortality was no different in hypocalcemia versus no hypocalcemia (29% vs 0%; P = .13) but was greater in hypercalcemia versus no hypercalcemia (78% vs 9%; P < .01). Receiver operator curve analysis identified inflection points in mortality outside a Ca2+ range of 0.84 to 1.30 mmol/L. Using these extreme values, 15 (37%) had hypocalcemia with a 60% mortality (vs 4%; P < .01) and 9 (22%) had hypercalcemia with a 78% mortality (vs 9%; P < .01). Patients with extreme hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia also received more red blood cells, plasma, platelets, and calcium repletion.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia occur commonly during the initial resuscitation of severely injured patients. Mild hypocalcemia may be tolerable, but more extreme hypocalcemia and any hypercalcemia should be avoided. Further assessment to define best practice for calcium management during resuscitation is warranted.
Inflammaging and the Age-Specific Responsiveness to Stretch-Shortening Contractions
Authors: Rader Erik P. , Baker Brent A.
Published: July 2017

With aging, muscle injury from rapid, continuous stretch-shortening contractions (SSC) is prolonged, and maladaptation to moderate-velocity, intermittent SSC is more common. We hypothesize that high baseline levels of inflammatory signaling and oxidative stress may underlie these outcomes, whereas careful modulation of high-intensity SSC training design resets basal conditions and permits muscle adaptation to SSC.
Triathlon Medical Coverage: A Guide for Medical Directors
Authors: Asplund Chad A. , Miller Thomas K. , Creswell Lawrence , Getzin Andrew , Hunt Andrew , Martinez John , Diehl Jason , Hiller William D. , Berlin Paul
Published: July 2017

Interest and participation in triathlon has grown rapidly over the past 20 yr and with this growth, there has been an increase in the number of new events. To maximize the safety of participation, triathlons require medical directors to plan and oversee medical care associated with event participation. Provision of proper medical care requires knowledge of staffing requirements, common triathlon medical conditions, impact of course design, communication skill, and a familiarity of administrative requirements. These guidelines serve as a tool for triathlon medical and race directors to improve race safety for athletes.
Exercise in the Prevention and Treatment of Breast Cancer: What Clinicians Need to Tell Their Patients
Authors: Kraschnewski Jennifer L. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: July 2017

In 2016, nearly a quarter-million women were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer, the second deadliest cancer type. Lifestyle behaviors are well-established risk factors for both the development of, and negative outcomes from, breast cancer. New findings demonstrate that engaging in even minimal amounts of exercise is protective against breast cancer. Further, numerous studies have identified the role of exercise in the treatment of breast cancer and improvement in treatment side effects, quality of life, and overall survival. Unfortunately, few patients are physically active due to multiple barriers. Physicians may be helpful in engaging patients in being more active. Further research is necessary to identify programs and approaches to help patients both with, and at-risk for, breast cancer to engage in exercise.
Enzymatic production of single-molecule FISH and RNA capture probes
Authors: Gaspar Imre , Wippich Frank , Ephrussi Anne
Published: July 2017

Arrays of singly labeled short oligonucleotides that hybridize to a specific target revolutionized RNA biology, enabling quantitative, single-molecule microscopy analysis and high-efficiency RNA/RNP capture. Here, we describe a simple and efficient method that allows flexible functionalization of inexpensive DNA oligonucleotides by different fluorescent dyes or biotin using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase and custom-made functional group conjugated dideoxy-UTP. We show that (i) all steps of the oligonucleotide labeling—including conjugation, enzymatic synthesis, and product purification—can be performed in a standard biology laboratory, (ii) the process yields >90%, often >95% labeled product with minimal carryover of impurities, and (iii) the oligonucleotides can be labeled with different dyes or biotin, allowing single-molecule FISH, RNA affinity purification, and Northern blot analysis to be performed.
Τα tablets στην εκπαίδευση. Αποτελέσματα από πιλοτικό πρόγραμμα για τη διδασκαλία συστημάτων του ανθρώπινου οργανισμού σε μαθητές δημοτικού
Authors: Μαστροκούκου Αικατερίνη , Φωκίδης Εμμανουήλ
Published: July 2017

Η εργασία αφορά τη χρήση εφαρμογής για tablets για τη διδασκαλία των συστημάτων του ανθρώπινου οργανισμού. Σκοπός ήταν να διερευνηθεί κατά πόσο μια εφαρμογή με τρισδιάστατες απεικονίσεις και στοιχεία επαυξημένης πραγματικότητας μπορεί να βοηθήσει στην καλύτερη κατανόηση από τους μαθητές του τρόπου λειτουργίας του αναπνευστικού και κυκλοφορικού συστήματος και του τρόπου με τον οποίο αυτά συνεργάζονται. Για το σκοπό αυτό, οργανώθηκαν δύο ομάδες μαθητών της Στ’ Δημοτικού, οι οποίοι διδάχθηκαν το ίδιο αντικείμενο με δύο διαφορετικούς τρόπους διδασκαλίας. Στην πρώτη ομάδα εφαρμόστηκε ομαδοσυνεργατική διδασκαλία, η οποία ενισχύθηκε, σε κάποιο βαθμό, τεχνολογικά, ενώ η δεύτερη ομάδα χρησιμοποίησε αποκλειστικά και μόνο tablets. Οι διδακτικές παρεμβάσεις διήρκησαν η κάθε μία τέσσερα διδακτικά δίωρα. Στην έρευνα συμμετείχαν συνολικά 50 μαθητές. Η συλλογή των δεδομένων πραγματοποιήθηκε με τη χρήση φύλλων αξιολόγησης και ερωτηματολογίου. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν ότι η ομάδα που χρησιμοποίησε τα tablets είχε καλύτερες επιδόσεις σε σχέση με την άλλη ομάδα. Η έρευνα ανέδειξε τη θετική επίδραση που είχαν τα tablets στις επιδόσεις των μαθητών, ενώ φάνηκε και η θετική στάση των μαθητών απέναντι στη χρήση τους στη διδασκαλία.
General guidelines for biomedical software development
Authors: Silva Luis Bastiao , Jimenez Rafael C. , Blomberg Niklas , Luis Oliveira José
Published: July 2017

Most bioinformatics tools available today were not written by professional software developers, but by people that wanted to solve their own problems, using computational solutions and spending the minimum time and effort possible, since these were just the means to an end. Consequently, a vast number of software applications are currently available, hindering the task of identifying the utility and quality of each. At the same time, this situation has hindered regular adoption of these tools in clinical practice. Typically, they are not sufficiently developed to be used by most clinical researchers and practitioners. To address these issues, it is necessary to re-think how biomedical applications are built and adopt new strategies that ensure quality, efficiency, robustness, correctness and reusability of software components. We also need to engage end-users during the development process to ensure that applications fit their needs. In this review, we present a set of guidelines to support biomedical software development, with an explanation of how they can be implemented and what kind of open-source tools can be used for each specific topic.
Offshore Expertise for Onshore Companies: Director Connections to Island Tax Havens and Corporate Tax Policy
Authors: Jiang Chao , Kubick Thomas R. , Miletkov Mihail K. , Wintoki M. Babajide
Published: July 2017

Theory and recent empirical literature suggest that social and professional connections may influence corporate policy. However, inference may be biased by the possibility that firms who share peers also share unobserved characteristics that are correlated with observed policy. Using a novel identification strategy, we predict and find that director connections through well-known island tax havens have a significant effect on corporate tax policy. Specifically, we find that U.S. firms with directors who are connected to firms domiciled on the islands of the Bahamas, Bermuda, or the Caymans exhibit significantly greater tax avoidance than other U.S. firms. The presence or arrival of an island director is associated with a reduction of between one and three percentage points in the firm’s effective tax rate. We also observe a significant increase in the use of tax haven subsidiaries following the arrival of the island director.

This paper was accepted by Mary Barth, accounting.
Routing and Scheduling for a Last-Mile Transportation System
Authors: Wang Hai
Published: July 2017

The last-mile problem concerns the provision of travel services from the nearest public transportation node to a passenger’s home or other destination. We study the operation of an emerging last-mile transportation system (LMTS) with batch demands that result from the arrival of groups of passengers who desire last-mile service at urban metro stations or bus stops. Routes and schedules are determined for a multivehicle fleet of delivery vehicles, with the objective of minimizing passenger waiting time and riding time. An exact mixed-integer programming (MIP) model for LMTS operations is presented first, which is difficult to solve optimally within acceptable computational times. Computationally feasible heuristic approaches are then developed: a myopic operating strategy that uses only demand information from trains that have already arrived, a metaheuristic approach based on a tabu search that employs demand information over the entire service horizon, and a two-stage method that solves the MIP model approximately over the entire service horizon. These approaches are implemented in a number of computational experiments to evaluate the system’s performance, and demonstrate that LMTS is notably preferable to a conventional service system under certain conditions.
Leading CPD as a middle leader
Authors: Cunningham Maria
Published: July 2017

With middle leaders having a clear and increasing role in driving CPD, Maria Cunningham outlines eight ways to be a more developmental middle leader
The only certainty is uncertainty…
Authors: Hobby Russell
Published: July 2017

As he stands down as NAHT general secretary, Russell Hobby reflects on how the current political uncertainty could be a blessing in disguise for school leaders
Cross-curricular literacy: Part 5
Authors: Bromley Matt
Published: July 2017

In the final article of this series, Matt Bromley focuses on writing skills and how teachers across the curriculum can support and develop their pupils' writing
La bellezza e l’attitudine al comando: viridarium sacrae et profanae eruditionis: problema LXXV
Authors: Pastina Luigi Mattia
Published: July 2017

Este estudo propõe-se fornecer uma tradução e um comentário de uma das questões abordadas no Viridarium sacrae et profanae eruditionis de Francisco de Mendoça. O célebre jesuíta de Lisboa foi professor de Filosofia e reitor do Colégio das Artes de Coimbra nos primeiros anos do séc. xvii. Esta sua obra foi publicada postumamemnte pelo mesmo Colégio num denso volume que constituia à época uma súmula de saber enciclopédico. A questão de que me ocupo insere-se no capítulo Flores Varii e tem como título Quis aptior ad imperium, pulcher an foedus. Para encontrar uma solução para o problema, o autor refere uma série de personagens que considera terem sido bem adequadas ao exercício do poder. No comentário, procurar-se-á, em primeiro lugar, identificar as citações convocadas por Francisco Mendoça, em segundo, verificar a sua fidelidade às fontes e, por último, averigurar a fiabilidade dessas mesmas fontes literárias.
O filme imortais de Tarsem Singh: uma proposta didática
Authors: Ferreira Luísa de Nazaré
Published: July 2017

Lançada em novembro de 2011, a produção americana Immortals, dirigida por Tarsem Singh, alcançou grande sucesso comercial, mas recebeu críticas negativas a respeito do tratamento da mitologia grega. Numa perspetiva mais moderada, este estudo propõe uma leitura do filme com vista à sua utilização em contexto didático.
Páginas de Suetónio: a imolação do Tirano Calígula
Authors: Brandão José Luís L.
Published: July 2017

Uma das mortes mais simbólicas em Suetónio é a de Calígula, comparável à de Júlio César, e igualmente sancionada pela mentalidade romana tradicional como um legítimo ataque à tirania em que os excessos tinham transformado este principado. Por isso, o magnicídio é narrado por Suetónio e pelas fontes paralelas como uma espécie de ritual de imolação levado a cabo pelos conjurados. De qualquer modo, tal como o cesaricídio de 44 a.C., o sacrifício de Calígula revela‑se uma oportunidade perdida para o restauro da liberdade republicana.
Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) in trans-Himalayan Ladakh, India
Authors: Stobdan Tsering , Dolkar Phuntsog , Chaurasia O.P. , Kumar Bhuvnesh
Published: July 2017

Seabuckthorn (SBT) is an ecologically and economically important plant species of trans-Himalayan Ladakh. Once considered a thorny menace, SBT is now looked upon as a means for sustainable development of the trans-Himalayan region. Several antioxidant rich SBT-based products are being developed and commercialized. SBT berry collection from natural habitat has become an important activity in the region since the year 2001. Currently, the demand for SBT exceeds the supply capacity of the region. Cultivation of SBT on 2500 ha would result in annual net income of Rs 491 crore. Anticipating the high demand for SBT, studies are underway to meet the long term goal to introduce plantation of SBT on vast barren land. Potential of the lesser-known shrub has been recognized by several R&D organizations. In recent years a number of research institutes in India are working on the lesser known shrub. This article summarizes the advancement of research on SBT of trans-Himalayan Ladakh origin.
Long Wave Infrared Type II Superlattice Focal Plane Array Detector
Authors: Klipstein P.C. , Avnon E. , Benny Y. , Fraenkel A. , Glozman A. , Hojman E. , Ilan E. , Kahanov E. , Klin O. , Krasovitski L. , Langof L. , Lukomsky I. , Nitzani M. , Shkedy L. , Shtrichman I. , Snapi N. , Talmor R. , Tuito A. , Vaserman S. , Weiss E.
Published: July 2017

The XBn/XBp family of barrier detectors enables diffusion limited dark currents comparable with HgxCd1-xTe Rule-07 and high quantum efficiencies. SCD’s XBp type II superlattice (T2SL) detector contains InAs/GaSb and InAs/AlSb T2SLs, and was designed for the long wave infrared (LWIR) atmospheric window using k · p based modeling of the energy bands and photo-response. Wafers are grown by molecular beam epitaxy and are fabricated into focal plane array (FPA) detectors using standard FPA processes, including wet and dry etching, indium bump hybridisation, under-fill, and back-side polishing. The 640 × 512 pixel, 15 μm pitch, detector goes by the name of ‘Pelican-D LW’ and exhibits a quantum efficiency of ~ 50 per cent with background limited performance at an operating temperature of 77 K. It has a cut-off wave length of ~ 9.5 μm, with a pixel operability of above 99 per cent. The detector gives a very stable image with a residual non uniformity of below 0.04 per cent over its useful dynamic range. A new digital read-out integrated circuit has been designed so that the complete detector closely follows the configuration of SCD’s MWIR Pelican-D detector.
Infrared Avalanche Photodiode Detectors
Authors: Singh Anand , Pal Ravinder
Published: July 2017

This study presents on the design, fabrication and characteristics of HgCdTe mid-wave infrared avalanche photodiode (MWIR APD). The gain of 800 at - 8 V bias is measured in n+-ν-p+ detector array with pitch size of 30 μm. The gain independent bandwidth of 6 MHz is achieved in the fabricated device. This paper also covers the status of HgCdTe and III-V material based IR-APD technology. These APDs having high internal gain and bandwidth are suitable for the detection of attenuated optical signals such as in the battle field conditions/long range imaging in defence and space applications. It provides a combined solution for both detection and amplification if the detector receives a very weak optical signal. HgCdTe based APDs provide high avalanche gain with low excess noise, high quantum efficiency, low dark current and fast response time.
Design Configuration of a Generation Next Main Battle Tank for Future Combat
Authors: Rahman A. Hafeezur , Malik Ameer Shaik , Kumar J. Rajesh , Balaguru V. , Sivakumar P.
Published: July 2017

The future combat scenario will undergo a sea change as compared to the conventional and un-conventional warfare employed by the traditional armies and non-state actors. In such a scenario, the main battle tank which serves as a game changer during these conflicts has to face the dilemma whether its design should be either evolutionary or revolutionary. To determine the basis of selecting the right type of design based on the above, the broad parameters that define the configuration namely number of crew, weight, armament system, survivability, operating range, transportability, tactical mobility, trafficability, intelligence - surveillance - target acquisition - reconnaissance (ISTAR), system modularity and theatre of operation have been considered. Taking these parameters into account, this study evaluates both the evolutionary and revolutionary design configurations for a generation next main battle tank. Finally, from the outcome of this study it is observed that the revolutionary design approach not only fares better compared to the evolutionary approach, but also possess ease of adaptiveness as an universal combat weapon platform.
Simulation of an Armoured Vehicle for Blast Loading
Authors: Mahajan Sanjit , Muralidharan R.
Published: July 2017

Occupant safety in an armoured vehicle is of paramount importance. Most serious threat to armoured vehicles comes in the form of explosion of buried charge or an improvised explosive device. The use of numerical methods in the validation process of light armoured vehicles reduces the number of prototypes required and decreases the design time. This paper elucidates the process by which one such validation using numerical methods was done. The process of finite element method used for simulation of blast is a prominent method of numerical method of simulation. The finite element model (FEM) process starts with discretisation. By discretisation or meshing, Shell (Quad/Tria) and solid (Tetra/Hexa) elements are generated. The FEM thus created is provided with relevant material model / properties and loading and boundary conditions. The loading conditions are adopted from STANAG 4569 Level II standards. Local deformation, global displacement, stresses and time history of displacement of particular areas of interest are obtained as results. Comparison results include the effect of with and without thermal softening under blast. Based on the results and comparison, suggestions regarding re-engineering the vehicle are presented.
Trends in Sighting Systems for Combat Vehicles
Authors: Ansari Zahir Ahmed , Kumar Avnish , Marathe Rajeev , Nigam Madhav Ji
Published: July 2017

Search and tracking in dynamic condition, rapid re-targeting, precision pointing and long range engagement in day and night condition are core requisite of stabilised sighting systems used for combat vehicles. Complex battle field requires integrated fire control system with stabilised sighting system as its main constituent. It facilitates quick reaction to fire control system and provides vital edge in the battlefield scenario. Precision gimbal design, optics design, embedded engineering, control system, electro-optical sensors, target detection and tracking, panorama generation, auto-alerting, digital image stabilisation, image fusion and integration are important aspects of sighting system development. In this paper, design considerations for a state of art stabilised sighting system have been presented including laboratory and field evaluation methods for such systems.
FDTD Modelling of 1D Photonic Crystal comprised of Double Positive and Double Negative Metamaterial for Thermal Masking Application with CPML Absorbing Boundary Condition.
Authors: Sharan Alok , Kumar M. Ashok , Anusha N. P.
Published: July 2017

Periodic structures of double positive and double negative metamaterial of thickness of λ/4 is designed to stop long-wave infrared and mid-wave infrared frequencies for masking from infrared detection devices. Band-gaps are obtained by calculating reflection and transmission coefficients at probe point close to the front and back faces of the periodic structure. 1D- finite difference time domain method is implemented in Matlab to study the electromagnetic wave propagation which is incident normal to a periodic stack of double positive and double negative metamaterial of having refractive indices of 9 and -6 respectively, at centre wavelength. Drude model is adapted to model double negative medium. Band-gap obtained are compared with the conventional photonic crystal by replacing the double negative medium with a double positive medium with the magnitude of refractive index same as that of double negative medium. Band-gap obtained confirms the presence of Zero-n͂ band-gap in DPS-DNG photonic crystal which is wider than the reflection band in conventional photonic crystal; nearly twice in mid-wave infrared region and five times in long-wave infrared region. A novel and highly efficient convolutional perfectly matched layer absorbing boundary condition is used to terminate the infinite computational finite difference time domain lattices.
Infrared Characterisation and Prediction of Aviation Turbine Fuel Plume
Authors: R. Nagarajan , Poonia Karuna , Bilonia S. D. , Singh R.
Published: July 2017

Broad (3.7 μm - 4.8 μm) as well as narrow band (4.16 μm - 4.24 μm) mid wave infrared characterisation of plume has been reported here. Multiple angular measurements (azimuth) were carried out on a laboratory developed plume source with aviation turbine fuel (ATF) using thermal imaging systems. Correlation of IR prediction to experimental results is the key objectives of this study. As this narrow band covers the blue spike of plume, a comparison of the same with broad band plume contribution has been reported for the first time. Also, a model to simulate the IR radiation of two-dimensional parabolic jet was developed and used to predict spectral contribution from major hydrocarbon fuel combustion products (CO2 and H2O). In addition, it was found that the plume transmission characteristics extracted form imager measurements are qualitatively in agreement with prediction results.

 