bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wave vibration control of planar frame structures based on the advanced Timoshenko bending theory
Authors: Mei C
Published: July 2013

Coupled bending and axial vibrations in a planar multi-story frame structure are controlled from a wave vibration standpoint, in which vibrations are described as waves that propagate along uniform waveguides, and are reflected and transmitted upon structural discontinuities. The bending vibrations are modeled using a Timoshenko model, which takes into account the effects of rotary inertia and shear distortion. The axial vibrations are modeled using elementary theory, as it is typically valid for frequencies up to twice the cutoff frequency of Timoshenko bending waves. Regardless of the complexity of a structure, when it is modeled from a wave point of view, it consists of only two basic types of structural components, namely, structural elements and joints. In this paper, both structural element and structural joint controllers are designed based on various control strategies such as optimal damping and optimal energy absorbing. Numerical examples are presented. Results are compared to those obtained based on the classical Euler–Bernoulli model that are available in the literature. As was expected, good agreement between the results of the models at low frequencies was obtained.
Structures of proportional–integral–derivative regulators for control of stress, strain and energy parameters at the electro-hydraulic fatigue test stand
Authors: Kasprzyczak Leszek , Macha Ewald
Published: July 2013

In this paper the authors analyze various structures of proportional–integral–derivative (PID) regulators in the control system of the electro-hydraulic strength machine for determination of material characteristics under the controlled stress, strain and energy parameters (strain energy density). The aim of this work is to determine the appropriate structure of the PID controller, so as the control system can accurately follow up the reference signal. Changes of the controller settings, depending on amplitude and frequency of the reference signal, have been presented.
Nonlinear free vibration of thin functionally graded beams using the finite element method
Authors: Taeprasartsit Sompon
Published: July 2013

A finite element model of large amplitude free vibrations of thin functionally graded beams with immovably supported ends is developed in this paper. The material properties of functionally graded beams are assumed to vary according to the power law distribution through the thickness direction. The finite element model is formulated in a variationally correct way based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory and von Karman geometric nonlinearity. The linear exact displacement fields of the static case are used as the shape functions. The time response of each node is assumed to be a harmonic function, and the error residuals due to this assumption are minimized by employing the Galerkin method. Together this assumption and method transform the finite element equations to an eigenvalue equation that can be solved using a direct iterative method in tandem with the principle of energy conservation. The accuracy of the proposed method is demonstrated by comparing the frequencies and amplitudes with those of other methods presented in the literature. Finally, the relation between the frequencies of functionally graded beams and those of the homogeneous beams at various initial amplitudes is also examined.
Dynamic analysis of planar 3-

R

RR flexible parallel robots under uniform temperature change
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Zhang Xianmin
Published: July 2013

The effect of temperature change on dynamic performances of planar 3-RRR flexible parallel robots is studied in this paper. In general, the strain and stress are produced not only by the external exciting force, but also by temperature change. The strain energy that is caused by temperature change should not be ignored. Based on the Hamilton principle and the finite element method, the general equations of motion of 3-RRR systems are determined, in which the effect of temperature change is taken into consideration. The equations of motion of planar 3-RRR flexible parallel robots are solved using Gear’s algorithm. The commercial Ansys 13.0 software is used to confirm the validity of the theory model. The effect of the daily temperature change of different cities on the performance of 3-RRR flexible parallel robots is investigated. Numerical results show that a small temperature change will cause a significant change in the stress of the flexile links of planar 3-RRR flexible parallel robots. The effects of temperature change should not be ignored when analyzing the dynamic performances of planar 3-RRR flexible parallel robots.
Reviewing the roots of continuum formulations in molecular systems. Part II: Energy and angular momentum balance equations
Authors: Davydov Denis , Steinmann Paul
Published: July 2013

This paper is the second part of a series dedicated to reviewing the fundamental link between discrete and continuum formulations, which is established by space averaging followed by probability density averaging. On obtaining the continuum balance laws of mass and linear momentum in the part I, here the balance laws of angular momentum and energy are re-derived from a discrete (atomistic/molecular) description. Different approaches (explicit and implicit) for the consideration of the potential energy are reviewed. Thereby for the explicit approach ambiguous possibilities for the localization of the potential energy are briefly discussed. Thereby we conclude that the explicit approach is preferable from the practical application point of view, however it becomes cumbersome when applied to multi-body interactions systems, whereas the implicit approach has no ambiguity in the localization of the potential energy to each particle and is easily applicable to any multi-body potential. Possible solutions for continuum fluxes (couple stresses, heat flux) are postponed until part III of the series.
Fostering Resilience Among Urban Youth Exposed to Violence
Authors: Jain Sonia , Cohen Alison K.
Published: July 2013

Most studies to date have examined negative effects of exposure to community violence, in line with the deficit-based perspective. However, given that most youth exposed to community violence demonstrate positive adaptation or resilience over time, we suggest a shift in perspective, practices, and policies across systems toward identifying and building individual, family, and community assets and strengths that may more effectively support youth who have been exposed to community violence and related risks into competent, caring, and thriving adults. In this article, we review how resilience has been conceptualized and operationalized within the context of community violence, highlight gaps in literature, and offer directions for future public health research and practice. We illustrate this review with practice-based examples from public health work in the San Francisco Bay Area. Future multidisciplinary longitudinal studies that identify protective processes and successful trajectories and rigorous evaluations of strength-based policies, programs, and protective processes are needed.
Effects of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports on Internalizing Problems
Authors: McIntosh Kent , Ty Sophie V. , Miller Lynn D.
Published: July 2013

School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) has a large evidence base for preventing and addressing externalizing problem behavior, but there is little research examining its effects on internalizing problems, such as anxiety and depression. Given the prevalence of internalizing problems in today’s children and youth, it is worthwhile to examine the SWPBIS research base for evidence of effectiveness in preventing and treating internalizing problems. Hypothesized mechanisms by which the SWPBIS approach may support students with or at risk of internalizing problems include improving the clarity and predictability of the social environment, discouraging problem behavior that can threaten student safety, allowing instruction to take place, teaching effective responses to perceived environmental threats, and indirectly reducing internalizing problems by addressing externalizing problems. Support for internalizing challenges within a SWPBIS framework can be enhanced by adding evidence-based interventions for supporting internalizing needs within SWPBIS systems, providing professional development in identifying internalizing problems, and incorporating screening for internalizing problems into existing screening systems.
Unilateral squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis with hydronephrosis in a cat
Authors: Gómez Selgas Aida , Scase Timothy J , Foale Robert D
Published: July 2013

A 4-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented for evaluation of gradual onset of lethargy and anorexia. Physical examination revealed moderate abdominal distension. Investigations performed included complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, pyelocentesis, abdominal fluid analysis, abdominal ultrasonography and exploratory celiotomy. Nephrectomy was performed on the hydronephrotic kidney and a sample of the omentum was also taken, as it was grossly abnormal. No other abnormalities were found in the remainder of the abdominal organs. Findings were consistent with unilateral hydronephrosis and squamous cell carcinoma of the renal pelvis with abdominal carcinomatosis. The patient was given supportive treatment while the results of the biopsies from the renal tissue and the omentum were pending. The patient deteriorated a short time after surgical intervention and was euthanased. This is the first report of a squamous cell carcinoma arising from the renal pelvis in a cat. A comparison with the disease presentation in humans is also discussed.
Partial hydatidiform mole diagnosis in a cat: a case report
Authors: Jurka Piotr , Sacharczuk Mariusz , Kawka Magdalena , Sobczak-Filipiak Małgorzata , Golicz Michał
Published: July 2013

A case of a stillborn Norwegian Forest kitten characterised in the course of anatomopathological and genetic examination is reported. The hydatidiform mole was diagnosed by delayed development, low birth weight of the kitten and abnormal placental development. Anatomopathological diagnosis was confirmed in genetic tests based on the amplification of highly heterozygous microsatellite sequences located on the X (FCA311) and autosomal chromosomes (FCA506, FCA532 and FCA178), as well as the sex-specific Sry and amelogenin ( Amel) genes. The presence of two microsatellite alleles of paternal origin and one allele of maternal origin was observed in all analysed tissues (kidney, liver, brain, heart and spleen) of the stillborn kitten. The kitten’s sex was diagnosed by the presence of the paternal Sry gene, and maternal and paternal products of Amel, as well as one maternal and one paternal X chromosome FCA311 microsatellite allele. The results thus confirmed that the haploid egg was fertilised by two sperm, yielding a triploid karyotype. In summary, the successful application of genetic markers in postnatal diagnosis of this condition in the cat confirms considerable usefulness of these techniques, especially in cases where cytogenetic diagnosis is insufficient or impossible.
The mediator role of psychological morbidity in patients with chronic low back pain in differentiated treatments
Authors: Ferreira M Salomé , Pereira M Graça
Published: July 2013

This study analyzed the mediating role of psychological morbidity and the variables that discriminated low versus high disability, in patients receiving physiotherapy and acupuncture. A total of 203 patients answered measures of illness and medication representations, coping, depression, anxiety, quality of life, and functional disability. Morbidity was a mediator between functional disability and quality of life. Treatment consequences and quality of life, in the acupuncture group, and emotional representations, quality of life, depression, anxiety, and active strategies for pain relief, in the physiotherapy group, discriminated patients with low versus high disability. These results have important implications for identifying high-risk patients.
Age and sexual risk among Black men who have sex with men in South Africa: The mediating role of attitudes toward condoms
Authors: Kaighobadi Farnaz , Knox Justin , Reddy Vasu , Sandfort Theo
Published: July 2013

The results of research linking age and sexual risk among men who have sex with men have been inconsistent. This study assessed the relationship between age and sexual risk among 193 Black men who have sex with men in Pretoria. Older men who have sex with men reported engaging in more frequent unprotected insertive anal intercourse. We examined whether components of Information–Motivation–Behavioral Skills model mediated this relationship. Results showed that (1) older age predicts less positive attitudes toward condoms, (2) less positive attitudes predict more frequent unprotected insertive anal intercourse, and (3) attitudes mediate the relationship between age and frequency of unprotected insertive anal intercourse. We consider two possible explanations for these findings: a developmental trajectory and a cohort effect.
Subjective social status, self-rated health and tobacco smoking: Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Authors: Camelo Lidyane do V , Giatti Luana , Barreto Sandhi M
Published: July 2013

Using baseline data from ELSA-Brasil ( N = 15,105), we investigated whether subjective social status, measured using three 10-rung “ladders,” is associated with self-rated health and smoking, independently of objective indicators of social position and depression symptoms. Additionally, we explored whether the magnitude of these associations varies according to the reference group. Subjective social status was independently associated with poor self-rated health and weakly associated with former smoking. The references used for social comparison did not change these associations significantly. Subjective social status, education, and income represent distinct aspects of social inequities, and the impact of each of these indicators on health is different.
Writing about life goals: Effects on rumination, mood and the cortisol awakening response
Authors: Teismann Tobias , Het Serkan , Grillenberger Matthias , Willutzki Ulrike , Wolf Oliver T
Published: July 2013

Rumination is a vulnerability factor for the onset and maintenance of emotional distress. This study examined whether writing about life goals is associated with a decrease in ruminative thinking and a reduced cortisol awakening response. 68 healthy participants either wrote about their personal life goals or a control topic. Writing about life goals was associated with a modest decrease in ruminative thinking and a reduced cortisol awakening response at the post-intervention assessment. Results provide initial evidence that writing about life goals can be a helpful aid in decreasing rumination and physiological stress reactivity.
Comparing the psychometric properties of the pediatric outcomes data collection instrument and the Activities Scales for Kids
Authors: Christakou Anna , Laiou Athanasia
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to review and evaluate the psychometric properties of two general musculoskeletal outcome measures focusing on pediatric physical disability, namely, the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) and the Activities Scales for Kids (ASK). Although this review reveals the psychometric superiority of ASK to PODCI, further research should confirm the psychometric properties of both the instruments. A number of psychometric issues need to be further addressed. Specifically, future studies should examine additional types of reliability and validity, for example, content, construct, criterion, and discriminant with more sophisticated statistical analyses, for example, Aiken’s item content validity coefficient and confirmatory factor analysis. Until these issues are addressed, researchers should be cautious utilizing these instruments in children with musculoskeletal problems in a clinical setting.
Parenting and relationship characteristics in mothers with their children having atopic disease
Authors: Im Yeo-Jin , Park Eun-Sook , Oh Won-Oak , Suk Min-Hyun
Published: July 2013

This study compared parental cognitions and relationship characteristics of mothers of children with atopic disease with those of mothers of children without atopic disease. These factors include child-rearing attitudes, parental locus of control, parental sense of competence, attachment security, and maternal sensitivity. Preplanned subanalyses were carried out according to specific disease, mothers’ perception of disease severity, and presence of concurrent atopic diseases. The descriptive comparative study of 233 Korean mothers included 102 mothers of children aged six years or younger with atopic dermatitis, asthma, and/or allergic rhinitis. Data were collected from 2007 to 2008 from local clinics and day care centers. Parental cognitions and relationship characteristics did not differ significantly between groups of mothers, except that mothers of children with atopic dermatitis showed less affection. However, subanalyses showed that mothers who perceived their child’s disease to be severe were less likely to encourage autonomy and had a lower sense of competence, more rejecting attitudes, and an external locus of control. Although we should be cautious in generalizing these results, special care plans are strongly recommended for mothers of children with severe atopic disease to provide support and education, help mothers develop an internal locus of control, and increase parental sense of competence.
An evaluation of physicians’ engagement of children with asthma in treatment-related discussions
Authors: Carpenter Delesha M , Stover Angela , Slota Catherine , Ayala Guadalupe X , Yeatts Karen , Tudor Gail , Davis Stephanie , Williams Dennis , Sleath Betsy
Published: July 2013

Our objectives were to examine whether providers engage children with asthma in treatment-related discussions at the level children prefer (engagement concordance) and to determine whether engagement concordance is related to child, caregiver, and provider characteristics. Children with asthma ( n = 296) aged 8–16 years were recruited at five pediatric practices in North Carolina. Using audiotaped medical visit transcripts, we documented the number of treatment-related questions the providers asked the children. Children reported their preferred level of provider engagement. A logistic generalized estimating equation was used to determine which variables predicted engagement concordance. Most children (96.6%) wanted to be involved in treatment-related discussions. One-third of the providers did not ask children any treatment-related questions. Only 36.1% of provider–child dyads were concordant. Most discordant dyads were under-engaged (83.1%). Better engagement concordance was observed among older children (odds ratio (OR) = 1.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.07, 1.33)), male children (OR = 1.67, 95% CI (1.03, 2.70)), and among providers with fewer years in practice (OR = .97, 95% CI (.94, .99)). Providers engaged in treatment-related discussions with younger children and females less frequently than these children preferred. Providers should ask children how much they want to be involved in treatment-related discussions and then attempt to engage children at the level they prefer.
Out-of-school lives of physically disabled children and young people in the United Kingdom
Authors: Knight Kate Helen , Porcellato Lorna , Tume Lyvonne
Published: July 2013

Currently there appears to be few opportunities and little evidence of physically disabled children and young people (C&YP) participating in mainstream social activities. A qualitative review was undertaken to examine the factors affecting physically disabled C&YP (8–15 years) in the United Kingdom participating in out-of-school activities. Views and experiences were explored from the perspective of the service users and providers to assess current provision and to determine the need for future research into factors that may affect participation. Searches were conducted across eight databases, the references of the included studies were checked and the websites were searched. Studies that used a qualitative design that examined the views relating to out-of-school activities were included. Nine papers were identified, which included three peer-reviewed papers and six pieces of grey literature and pertinent government documents to include views and experiences of out-of-school activity provision. The main themes emerging from the review were the need for social inclusion, out-of-school activities run by volunteers and accessibility, with threads throughout, which require further research including parental influence, provision, training and attitudes. This review highlights the absence of the service user’s voice and sheds light on the limited provision and barriers affecting participation in out-of-school activities.
More than just clowns – Clown Doctor rounds and their impact for children, families and staff
Authors: Ford Karen , Courtney-Pratt Helen , Tesch Leigh , Johnson Caddi
Published: July 2013

Admission to hospital is recognised as a difficult time for children and families. This study explored clown doctor activities in an acute paediatric setting and the impact their activities have on children, their families, other health professionals and clown doctors themselves. We used observation, semi-structured interviews and focus groups with children and parents and staff and clown doctors and results provide a rich description of the work of clown doctors. The major themes were ‘the encounter – in the moment’ of the interaction of the child and the clown doctor and ‘beyond the encounter’. The findings show that the impact of clown doctor visits is experienced beyond the immediate interaction, and this has not been clearly articulated in previous studies. This study highlights the multifaceted and complex nature of the work of the clown doctors and the high level of skill required as they modify and interpret play, activities and environment based on individual need and response.
Dependence of helicopter pilots’ biodynamic feedthrough on upper limbs’ muscular activation patterns
Authors: Masarati Pierangelo , Quaranta Giuseppe , Zanoni Andrea
Published: July 2013

The involuntary interaction of pilots with vehicles is often an undesired consequence of the biodynamic feedthrough of cockpit vibrations into the control system in relation with the characteristics of the man–machine interface. This work presents a numerical study of how the estimated muscular activation patterns associated with performing basic helicopter piloting tasks may affect the variability of the pilot’s biodynamic feedthrough and admittance. The limbs’ motion is predicted using an inverse kinematics formulation for redundant manipulators imposing the motion of the hand from measurements. Articulation torques are then estimated by inverse dynamics. Activation of the involved muscles is estimated according to the ‘total activation’ paradigm. Equivalent pilot feedthrough is obtained by consistent linearization of the constitutive model of the muscles about the reference activation. The effect on equivalent feedthrough of non-optimal activation, resulting from the addition of torque-less activation modes to the optimal activation, is evaluated and discussed. The multibody model of the pilot’s biodynamic feedthrough is incorporated in a detailed multibody model of a helicopter, to perform coupled bioaeroservoelastic simulations.
Urban scaling-up and endogenous development promoted by continuous city marketing: A case study of Xuyi County, China
Authors: Luo Zhendong , Wang Xu , Zhang Jingxiang , Hu Yi
Published: July 2013

The processes of decentralization, marketization, and globalization of socioeconomic reform in the last few decades have promoted the transformation of local governance in China. City marketing has become one of the most typical local governance activities. This article examines the mechanism of city marketing and urban scaling-up in Xuyi County, which is marketed as “Lobster Capital” for its lobster production and festival, from urban awareness, economy, and governance. It argues that the effective combination of city marketing and local resource endowment is a very important tactic for the development of small- and medium-sized cities. The key point in this combination is the branding of local production. Moving from city marketing to city branding means not only a long-term development strategy but also an endogenous development model. Rather than simply focusing on attracting capital, continuous city marketing based on endogenous sources of power, such as political, economic, and cultural power, can effectively integrate local resource endowment to overcome the shortcomings of externality and the short-term nature of single city marketing and maximize the social benefit of city marketing, which will in the end promote the urban reputation and economic growth. Hence, the continuous city marketing mode can express the urban ability and actual strength in a clearer and better way. Local government and its effective governance system is the core of city marketing, in which the main governor’s impact plays a particularly important role. This is a typical pro-growth model of urban governance in China. This article uses Xuyi as the case of continuous city market to analyze the success of a reasonable local endogenous governance system promoted by the main governor through taking full advantage of local resources.
Comparison of electronic and conventional ballasts used in roadway lighting
Authors: Djuretic A , Kostic M
Published: July 2013

Although manufacturers recommend light-emitting diode technology for all types of urban lighting, it is likely that high-pressure sodium lamps will be used for roadway lighting for many years. The purpose of this paper is to establish whether electronic ballasts represent a better solution for such lamps than electromagnetic ballasts. Special attention was devoted to the fact that electronic ballasts allow considerably higher voltage drops. However, taking into account the earth-fault protection demands, it is shown that electronic ballasts provide only a modest possibility to increase the length of the street lighting section. The techo-economic analysis showed that, owing to the high prices and shorter life of electronic ballasts, conventional electromagnetic control gear still represents a better choice from the financial point of view.
Climate-based daylighting analysis for the effects of location, orientation and obstruction
Authors: Munoz CM , Esquivias PM , Moreno D , Acosta I , Navarro J
Published: July 2013

During the first stages of building design, issues such as local climate, surrounding buildings and orientation are determining factors. The impact of these boundary conditions on daylight illuminances in an open-plan office space is studied in terms of daylight factor, daylight autonomy and useful daylight illuminances. Climate conditions in the location determine the characteristics of the daylight source, such as the ratio between diffuse lighting and global lighting. However, surrounding buildings and elements which may block daylight in the space hold more weight than the orientation of glazed façades, but are not always taken into consideration in daylighting studies.
Optimal radiant flux selection for multi-channel light-emitting diodes for spectrum-tunable lighting
Authors: Hu N-C , Feng Y-C , Wu CC , Hsiao SL
Published: July 2013

To synthesise a spectrum with a given radiant flux by multi-channel light-emitting diodes, different light-emitting diodes should have different radiant fluxes to maximise the light-emitting diode flux utilisation rate defined by the radiant flux of the light-emitting diode’s contribution to the synthesised spectrum divided by the rated radiant flux of this light-emitting diode. The optimal rating radiant flux algorithm for each light-emitting diode is achieved by applying the norm-reducing process and full-search method to the norm region of the spectra. As a result, light-emitting diodes with a broader full-width half maximum, such as phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes, are usually set at a high power level and the rest of the light-emitting diodes can be set to either medium or low power levels. Furthermore, the high-power light-emitting diode can be decomposed to some low-power light-emitting diodes to reduce both heat generated and light-emitting diode price.
Neurofeedback Training Aimed to Improve Focused Attention and Alertness in Children With ADHD
Authors: Hillard Brent , El-Baz Ayman S. , Sears Lonnie , Tasman Allan , Sokhadze Estate M.
Published: July 2013

Neurofeedback is a nonpharmacological treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). We propose that operant conditioning of electroencephalogram (EEG) in neurofeedback training aimed to mitigate inattention and low arousal in ADHD, will be accompanied by changes in EEG bands’ relative power. Patients were 18 children diagnosed with ADHD. The neurofeedback protocol (“Focus/Alertness” by Peak Achievement Trainer) has a focused attention and alertness training mode. The neurofeedback protocol provides one for Focus and one for Alertness. This does not allow for collecting information regarding changes in specific EEG bands (delta, theta, alpha, low and high beta, and gamma) power within the 2 to 45 Hz range. Quantitative EEG analysis was completed on each of twelve 25-minute-long sessions using a custom-made MatLab application to determine the relative power of each of the aforementioned EEG bands throughout each session, and from the first session to the last session. Additional statistical analysis determined significant changes in relative power within sessions (from minute 1 to minute 25) and between sessions (from session 1 to session 12). Analysis was of relative power of theta, alpha, low and high beta, theta/alpha, theta/beta, and theta/low beta and theta/high beta ratios. Additional secondary measures of patients’ post-neurofeedback outcomes were assessed, using an audiovisual selective attention test (IVA + Plus) and behavioral evaluation scores from the Aberrant Behavior Checklist. Analysis of data computed in the MatLab application, determined that theta/low beta and theta/alpha ratios decreased significantly from session 1 to session 12, and from minute 1 to minute 25 within sessions. The findings regarding EEG changes resulting from brain wave self-regulation training, along with behavioral evaluations, will help elucidate neural mechanisms of neurofeedback aimed to improve focused attention and alertness in ADHD.
Disappearance of Breach Rhythm Heralding Recurrent Tumor Progression in a Patient With Astrocytoma
Authors: Kampf Christina , Grossmann Annette , Benecke Reiner , Rösche Johannes
Published: July 2013

The breach rhythm is sometimes considered the consequence of reduced resistance between the cortex and the scalp electrode in the region of a skull defect. On the other hand, the electroencephalographic (EEG) changes after craniotomy were attributed to an activation of EEG activity by meningocortical adhesions with admixed gliosis. We report changes of the breach rhythm in a patient with astrocytoma, which give further evidence that the breach rhythm is not merely the result of physical changes in the area of a skull defect. In our patient, the breach rhythm was no longer detectable before a new tumor progression took place, showed up again, and at the end changed into localized slowing before the deterioration of the patient’s general medical condition. This case suggests that in patients with brain tumors, the loss or attenuation in frequency of an established breach rhythm might be considered as an indication of a new tumor progression.
Non-Convulsive Status Epilepticus Associated With Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase Antibody
Authors: Çıkrıkçılı Uğur , Ulusoy Canan , Turan Selin , Yıldız Şenay , Bilgiç Başar , Hanağası Haşmet , Baykan Betül , Tüzün Erdem , Gürvit Hakan
Published: July 2013

Autoimmune encephalitis associated with glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GAD-Ab) often presents with treatment-resistant partial seizures, as well as other central nervous system symptoms. In contrast to several other well-characterized autoantibodies, GAD-Ab has very rarely been associated with status epilepticus. We report a 63-year-old woman initially admitted with somnolence and psychiatric findings. The EEG findings, of generalized and rhythmical slow spike-wave activity over the posterior regions of both hemispheres, together with the clinical deterioration in responsiveness, led to the diagnosis of non-convulsive status epilepticus. Investigation of a broad panel of autoantibodies, revealed only increased serum GAD-Ab levels. Following methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin treatments, the patient's neurological symptoms improved, EEG findings disappeared and GAD-Ab levels significantly decreased. GAD-Ab should be added to the list of anti-neuronal antibodies associated with non-convulsive status epilepticus. Disappearance of clinical findings and seroreversion after immunotherapy suggest that GAD-Ab might be involved in seizure pathogenesis.
Soluble GARP has potent antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory impact on human CD4+ T cells
Authors: Hahn Susanne A. , Stahl Heiko F. , Becker Christian , Correll Anita , Schneider Franz-Joseph , Tuettenberg Andrea , Jonuleit Helmut
Published: July 2013

Key Points

GARP efficiently represses proliferation of naïve and resting CD4+ T cells and is involved in the induction of adaptive regulatory T cells. In vivo, GARP prevents T cell–mediated destructive inflammation in a preclinical humanized mouse model of GVHD.
Interactive effect of STAT6 and IL13gene polymorphisms on eczema status: results from a longitudinal and a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ziyab Ali H , Davies Gwyneth A , Ewart Susan , Hopkin Julian M , Schauberger Eric M , Wills-Karp Marsha , Holloway John W , Arshad Syed Hasan , Zhang Hongmei , Karmaus Wilfried
Published: July 2013

Background

Eczema is a prevalent skin disease that is mainly characterized by systemic deviation of immune response and defective epidermal barrier. Th2 cytokines, such as IL-13 and transcription factor STAT6 are key elements in the inflammatory response that characterize allergic disorders, including eczema. Previous genetic association studies showed inconsistent results for the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with eczema. Our aim was to investigate whether SNPs inIL13andSTAT6genes, which share a biological pathway, have an interactive effect on eczema risk.

Methods

Data from two independent population-based studies were analyzed, namely the Isle of Wight birth cohort study (IOW; n = 1,456) and for the purpose of replication the Swansea PAPA (Poblogaeth Asthma Prifysgol Abertawe; n = 1,445) cross-sectional study. Log-binomial regressions were applied to (i) account for the interaction betweenIL13(rs20541) andSTAT6(rs1059513) polymorphisms and (ii) estimate the combined effect, in terms of risk ratios (RRs), of both risk factors on the risk of eczema.

Results

Under a dominant genetic model, the interaction term [IL13(rs20541) × STAT6(rs1059513)] was statistically significant in both studies (IOW: adjustedPinteraction = 0.046; PAPA:Pinteraction = 0.037). The assessment of the combined effect associated with having risk genotypes in both SNPs yielded a 1.52-fold increased risk of eczema in the IOW study (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05 – 2.20;P = 0.028) and a 2.01-fold higher risk of eczema (95% CI: 1.29 – 3.12;P = 0.002) in the PAPA study population.

Conclusions

Our study adds to the current knowledge of genetic susceptibility by demonstrating for the first time an interactive effect between SNPs inIL13(rs20541) andSTAT6(rs1059513) on the occurrence of eczema in two independent samples. Findings of this report further support the emerging evidence that points toward the existence of genetic effects that occur via complex networks involving gene-gene interactions (epistasis).
Biodegradable magnesium-based screw clinically equivalent to titanium screw in hallux valgus surgery: short term results of the first prospective, randomized, controlled clinical pilot study
Authors: Windhagen Henning , Radtke Kerstin , Weizbauer Andreas , Diekmann Julia , Noll Yvonne , Kreimeyer Ulrike , Schavan Robert , Stukenborg-Colsman Christina , Waizy Hazibullah
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Nondegradable steel-and titanium-based implants are commonly used in orthopedic surgery. Although they provide maximal stability, they are also associated with interference on imaging modalities, may induce stress shielding, and additional explantation procedures may be necessary. Alternatively, degradable polymer implants are mechanically weaker and induce foreign body reactions. Degradable magnesium-based stents are currently being investigated in clinical trials for use in cardiovascular medicine. The magnesium alloy MgYREZr demonstrates good biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties. The aim of this prospective, randomized, clinical pilot trial was to determine if magnesium-based MgYREZr screws are equivalent to standard titanium screws for fixation during chevron osteotomy in patients with a mild hallux valgus.

Methods

Patients (n=26) were randomly assigned to undergo osteosynthesis using either titanium or degradable magnesium-based implants of the same design. The 6 month follow-up period included clinical, laboratory, and radiographic assessments.

Results

No significant differences were found in terms of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score for hallux, visual analog scale for pain assessment, or range of motion (ROM) of the first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ). No foreign body reactions, osteolysis, or systemic inflammatory reactions were detected. The groups were not significantly different in terms of radiographic or laboratory results.

Conclusion

The radiographic and clinical results of this prospective controlled study demonstrate that degradable magnesium-based screws are equivalent to titanium screws for the treatment of mild hallux valgus deformities.
Optical visualization of ultrathin mica flakes on semitransparent gold substrates
Authors: Dols-Perez Aurora , Sisquella Xavier , Fumagalli Laura , Gomila Gabriel
Published: July 2013

We show that optical visualization of ultrathin mica flakes on metallic substrates is viable using semitransparent gold as substrates. This enables to easily localize mica flakes and rapidly estimate their thickness directly on gold substrates by conventional optical reflection microscopy. We experimentally demonstrate it by comparing optical images with atomic force microscopy images of mica flakes on semitransparent gold. Present results open the possibility for simple and rapid characterization of thin mica flakes as well as other thin sheets directly on metallic substrates.
Exponential synchronization of the coupling delayed switching complex dynamical networks via impulsive control
Authors: Dai Anding , Zhou Wuneng , Feng Jianwen , Fang Jian’an , Xu Shengbing
Published: July 2013

In this paper, we investigate the exponential synchronization issue of coupling delayed switching complex dynamical networks via impulsive control. Basing on the Lyapunov functional method and establishing a new impulsive delay differential inequality, we derive some sufficient conditions which depend on delay and impulses to guarantee the exponential synchronization of the coupling delay switching complex dynamical network. Finally, numerical simulations are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Shaped Magnetic Field Pulses by Multi-Coil Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Differentially Modulate Anterior Cingulate Cortex Responses and Pain in Volunteers and Fibromyalgia Patients
Authors: Tzabazis Alexander , Aparici Carina Mari , Rowbotham Michael C , Schneider M Bret , Etkin Amit , Yeomans David C
Published: July 2013

Background

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown promise in the alleviation of acute and chronic pain by altering the activity of cortical areas involved in pain sensation. However, current single-coil rTMS technology only allows for effects in surface cortical structures. The ability to affect activity in certain deep brain structures may however, allow for a better efficacy, safety, and tolerability. This study used PET imaging to determine whether a novel multi-coil rTMS would allow for preferential targeting of the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC), an area always activated with pain, and to provide preliminary evidence as to whether this targeted approach would allow for efficacious, safe, and tolerable analgesia both in a volunteer/acute pain model as well as in fibromyalgia chronic pain patients.

Methods

Part 1: Different coil configurations were tested in a placebo-controlled crossover design in volunteers (N = 16). Tonic pain was induced using a capsaicin/thermal pain model and functional brain imaging was performed by means of H152O positron emission tomography - computed tomography (PET/CT) scans. Differences in NRS pain ratings between TMS and sham treatment (NRSTMS-NRSplacebo) which were recorded each minute during the 10 minute PET scans. Part 2: 16 fibromyalgia patients were subjected to 20 multi-coil rTMS treatments over 4 weeks and effects on standard pain scales (Brief Pain Inventory, item 5, i.e. average pain NRS over the last 24 hours) were recorded.

Results

A single 30 minute session using one of 3 tested rTMS coil configurations operated at 1 Hz consistently produced robust reduction (mean 70% on NRS scale) in evoked pain in volunteers. In fibromyalgia patients, the 20 rTMS sessions also produced a significant pain inhibition (43% reduction in NRS pain over last 24 hours), but only when operated at 10 Hz. This degree of pain control was maintained for at least 4 weeks after the final session.

Conclusion

Multi-coil rTMS may be a safe and effective treatment option for acute as well as for chronic pain, such as that accompanying fibromyalgia. Further studies are necessary to optimize configurations and settings as well as to elucidate the mechanisms that lead to the long-lasting pain control produced by these treatments.
Immunohistochemical analysis of chromatin remodeler DAXX in high grade urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Zizzi Antonio , Montironi Maria Alessandra , Mazzucchelli Roberta , Scarpelli Marina , Lopez-Beltran Antonio , Cheng Liang , Paone Nicola , Castellini Paolo , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims

The chromatin remodeler DAXX, a predominantly nuclear protein, regulates the status of chromatin organization. The aim of this exploratory immunohistochemical study was to evaluate DAXX protein expression in high grade invasive urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the bladder as a biological regulator of aggressiveness.

Methods

Quantitative analysis was made on DAXX immunostained nuclei in tissue sections from 5 cases of bladder normal urothelium (NU) and 5 cases of bladder pT1 UC. Carcinoma in situ (CIS) and high grade papillary carcinoma (HGPCa) were identified in 2 out of 5 UC cases.

Results

The nuclei in UC show an open configuration of the chromatin composed of granules varying in size and distribution and a mean nuclear area 1.7 times greater than that in NU (UC: mean and SD 24.4 ± 11.4 square microns; NU: 14.8 6.5 square microns. The differences are statistically significant). 70% of the NU nuclei are immunostained, whereas 90% of UC nuclei are positive. The mean gray level value in UC, related to the intensity of nuclear immunostaining, is lower than in NU by a factor of 0.94 (UC: mean and SD 100 ± 15; NU: 106 ± 15. The differences are statistically significant). In particular, the value in the nuclei adjacent to the stroma in UC is slightly lower than in the intermediate cell layers by factor of 0.98, whereas in NU it is slightly greater by a factor 1.02 and 1.04 compared to the intermediate and superficial cell layers. The values in CIS and HGPCa are similar to those in UC.

Conclusions

The quantitative immunohistochemical analysis shows an altered protein expression of chromatin remodeler DAXX in UC and in its preinvasive phases, when compared to NU. DAXX evaluation, if associated with markers related to global DNA methylation and histone acetylation, could be used in clinical practice as a marker of aggressiveness.

Virtual slides

The virtual slides for this article can be found here:

http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1398457297102379
New dicoumarol sodium compound: crystal structure, theoretical study and tumoricidal activity against osteoblast cancer cells
Authors: Rehman Sadia , Ikram Muhammad , Khan Ajmal , Min Soyoung , Azad Effat , Hofer Thomas S , Mok KH , Baker Robert J , Blake Alexander J , Rehman Saeed Ur
Published: July 2013

Background

Enormous interest had been paid to the coordination chemistry of alkali and alkaline metal ions because of their role inside body viz; their Li+/Na+ exchange inside the cell lead to different diseases like neuropathy, hypertension, microalbuminuria, cardiac and vascular hypertrophy, obesity, and insulin resistance. It has been presumed that alkali metal ions (whether Na+ or K+) coordinated to chelating ligands can cross the hydrophobic cell membrane easily and can function effectively for depolarizing the ion difference. This unique function was utilized for bacterial cell death in which K+ has been found coordinated valinomycin (antibiotic).

Results

Distinct sodium adduct (1) with dicoumarol ligand, 4-Hydroxy-3-[(4-hydroxy-2-oxo-4a,8a-dihydro-2H-chromen-3-yl)-phenyl-methyl]-chromen-2-one (L) is isolated from the saturated solution of sodium methoxide. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies of the adduct reveals that sodium is in the form of cation attached to a methoxide, methanol and a dicoumarol ligand where carbonyl functional groups of the coumarin derivative are acting as bridges. The sodium compound (1) is also characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, and 13C{1H}-NMR spectroscopic techniques. The composition is confirmed by elemental analysis. DFT study for 1 has been carried out using B3LYP/6-13G calculations which shown the theoretical confirmation of the various bond lengths and bond angles. Both the compounds were studied subsequently for the U2OS tumoricidal activity and it was found that L has LD50 value of 200 μM whereas the sodium analog cytotoxicity did not drop down below 60%.

Conclusion

A sodium analogue (1) with medicinally important dicoumarol ligand (L) has been reported. The crystal structure and DFT study confirm the formation of cationic sodium compound with dicoumarol. The ligand was found more active than the sodium analog attributed to the instability of 1 in solution state. Coumarin compound with sodium was observed to be less cytotoxic than the ligand, its LD50 value never dropped below 60%.
Novel microstructure quantification framework for databasing, visualization, and analysis of microstructure data
Authors: Niezgoda Stephen R , Kanjarla Anand K , Kalidindi Surya R
Published: July 2013

The study of microstructure and its relation to properties and performance is the defining concept in the field of materials science and engineering. Despite the paramount importance of microstructure to the field, a rigorous systematic framework for the quantitative comparison of microstructures from different material classes has yet to be adopted. In this paper, the authors develop and present a novel microstructure quantification framework that facilitates the visualization of complex microstructure relationships, both within a material class and across multiple material classes. This framework, based on the stochastic process representation of microstructure, serves as a natural environment for developing relational statistical analyses, for establishing quantitative microstructure descriptors. In addition, it will be shown that this new framework can be used to link microstructure visualizations with properties to develop reduced-order microstructure-property linkages and performance models.