bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Density Lipoprotein Maintains Skeletal Muscle Function by Modulating Cellular Respiration in Mice
Authors: Lehti Maarit , Donelan Elizabeth , Abplanalp William , Al-Massadi Omar , Habegger Kirk M. , Weber Jon , Ress Chandler , Mansfeld Johannes , Somvanshi Sonal , Trivedi Chitrang , Keuper Michaela , Ograjsek Teja , Striese Cynthia , Cucuruz Sebastian , Pfluger Paul T. , Krishna Radhakrishna , Gordon Scott M. , Silva R.A. Gangani D. , Luquet Serge , Castel Julien , Martinez Sarah , D’Alessio David , Davidson W. Sean , Hofmann Susanna M.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Abnormal glucose metabolism is a central feature of disorders with increased rates of cardiovascular disease. Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) are a key predictor for cardiovascular disease. We used genetic mouse models with increased HDL levels (apolipoprotein A-I transgenic [apoA-I tg]) and reduced HDL levels (apoA-I–deficient [apoA-I ko]) to investigate whether HDL modulates mitochondrial bioenergetics in skeletal muscle.

Methods and Results—

ApoA-I ko mice exhibited fasting hyperglycemia and impaired glucose tolerance test compared with wild-type mice. Mitochondria isolated from gastrocnemius muscle of apoA-I ko mice displayed markedly blunted ATP synthesis. Endurance capacity during exercise exhaustion test was impaired in apoA-I ko mice. HDL directly enhanced glucose oxidation by increasing glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration rate in C2C12 muscle cells. ApoA-I tg mice exhibited lower fasting glucose levels, improved glucose tolerance test, increased lactate levels, reduced fat mass, associated with protection against age-induced decline of endurance capacity compared with wild-type mice. Circulating levels of fibroblast growth factor 21, a novel biomarker for mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiencies and inhibitor of white adipose lipolysis, were significantly reduced in apoA-I tg mice. Consistent with an increase in glucose utilization of skeletal muscle, genetically increased HDL and apoA-I levels in mice prevented high-fat diet–induced impairment of glucose homeostasis.

Conclusions—

In view of impaired mitochondrial function and decreased HDL levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus, our findings indicate that HDL-raising therapies may preserve muscle mitochondrial function and address key aspects of type 2 diabetes mellitus beyond cardiovascular disease.
Morphological characterization of seeds in Portulacaceae
Authors: Ocampo Gilberto
Published: October 2013

Portulacaceae is a monogeneric family with around 100 species distributed around the world. Seed morphology is diverse in this group, and its variation has been used for taxonomic and identification purposes. However, documentation of seed morphology has focused on a few species complexes or has been limited to specific countries and geographic areas. Moreover, the terminology employed in different investigations is heterogeneous, thus complicating analyses of seed morphological diversity in Portulacaceae. In this study, the seed morphology of 58 samples representing 49 species, 9 subspecies, and 2 cultivars of Portulaca was documented with the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on the examination of the resulting images, a set of morphological features for describing the general shape of the seeds and their individual cell features is proposed; in addition, morphological descriptions for all taxa included in this study are provided. The results indicate that the shape of the seeds was constant within species, contrary to the characters that describe individual cell features, which showed important variation even within the same seed sample. In particular, the outline of the cells and the curvature of the anticlinal cell walls (ACW) were very variable, so a combination of character states was needed to describe the overall diversity of a sample. Conversely, the relief of the periclinal cell walls (PCW) was relatively constant throughout the seeds of the same species, but the relief of the cells of the lateral and peripheral faces was dissimilar in a number of taxa. In addition, other studies provide evidence that the relief of the PCW may vary in widely distributed species. Increased taxon sampling and multiple samples of species with wide geographical ranges will facilitate the study of patterns of variation, and may provide insights into the role of environmental variables on seed diversity of Portulacaceae.
Multiscale Simulation of a Prescribed Fire Event in the New Jersey Pine Barrens Using ARPS-CANOPY
Authors: Kiefer Michael T. , Heilman Warren E. , Zhong Shiyuan , Charney Joseph J. , Bian Xindi , Skowronski Nicholas S. , Hom John L. , Clark Kenneth L. , Patterson Matthew , Gallagher Michael R.
Published: October 2013

Smoke prediction products are one of the tools used by land management personnel for decision making regarding prescribed fires. This study documents the application to a prescribed fire of a smoke prediction system that employs ARPS-CANOPY, a modified version of the Advanced Regional Prediction System (ARPS) model containing a canopy submodel, as the meteorological driver. In this paper, the performance of ARPS-CANOPY in simulating meteorological fields in the vicinity of a low-intensity fire is assessed using flux-tower data collected prior to and during a low-intensity prescribed fire in the New Jersey Pine Barrens in March 2011. A three-dimensional high-resolution plant area density dataset is utilized to define the characteristics of the canopy, and the fire is represented in ARPS-CANOPY as a heat flux to the atmosphere. The standard ARPS model is compared with reanalysis and upper-air data to establish that the model can simulate the observed synoptic-mesoscale and planetary boundary layer features that are salient to this study. ARPS-CANOPY profiles of mean turbulent kinetic energy, wind speed/direction, and temperature exhibit patterns that appear in the flux-tower observations during both the preburn phase of the experiment and the period of time the flux tower experienced perturbed atmospheric conditions due to the impinging fire. Last, the character and source of turbulence in and around the fire line are examined. These results are encouraging for smoke prediction efforts since transport of smoke from low-intensity fires is highly sensitive to the near-surface meteorological conditions and, in particular, turbulent flows.
A Note on the Stability Indicator of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Zhengyu
Published: October 2013

This study examines the validity of the net freshwater transport ΔMov as a stability indicator of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) in a low-resolution version of the NCAR Community Climate System Model, version 3 (CCSM3). It is shown that the sign of ΔMov indicates the monostability or bistability of the AMOC, which is based on a hypothesis that a collapsed AMOC induces a zero net freshwater transport. In CCSM3, this hypothesis is satisfied in that the collapsed AMOC, with a nonzero strength, induces a zero net freshwater transport ΔMov across the Atlantic basin by generating equivalent freshwater export MovS and freshwater import MovN at the southern and northern boundaries, respectively. Because of the satisfaction of the hypothesis, ΔMov is consistent with a generalized indicator L for a slowly evolving AMOC, both of which correctly monitor the AMOC stability.
Tornado Warning Trade-Offs: Evaluating Choices for Visually Communicating Risk
Authors: Ash Kevin D. , Schumann Ronald L. , Bowser Gregg C.
Published: October 2013

Recent improvements in weather observation and monitoring have increased the precision of tornado warnings. The National Weather Service currently issues storm-based tornado warnings, and even more geographically specific warnings that include probability information are under development. At the same time, the widespread proliferation of smartphone and mobile computing technology supports the rapid dissemination of graphical weather warning information. Some broadcasters and private companies have already begun using probabilistic-style tornado warning graphics. However, the development of these new types of warnings has occurred with limited research on how users interpret probabilistic visualizations.

This study begins filling this void by examining responses to color scheme and relative position using probabilistic tornado warning designs. A survey of university students is used to measure the level of perceived fear and likelihood of protective action for a series of hypothetical warning scenarios. Central research questions investigate 1) differences in responses across warning designs, 2) clustering of extreme responses in each design, 3) trends in responses with respect to probability levels, 4) differences in responses inside versus outside the warnings, and 5) differences in responses near the edges of the warning designs. Results suggest a variety of trade-offs in viewer responses to tornado warnings based on visual design choices. These findings underscore the need for more comprehensive research on visualizations in weather hazard communication that can aid meteorologists in effectively warning the public and spur appropriate tornado protection behaviors in a timely manner.
Design and development process of a next-generation training system for spinal surgery
Authors: Bausch Gerold , Adermann Jens , Andrack Ben , Dengl Markus , Handwerk Jochen , Müller Matthias , Seifert Andreas , Steinke Hanno , Sturm Matthias , Korb Werner , Meixensberger Jürgen
Published: October 2013

For the development of a new-generation training system for spinal surgery, an iterative development cycle based on four steps was used. By using (i) empathy, (ii) cognitive model, (iii) prototyping and testing, and (iv) validation, an interdisciplinary development team was able to successfully build and validate a training system for lumbar disc surgery. The training system consists of a realistic training model based on synthetic materials and an accompanying training concept. It allows the training of different scenarios, starting from basic surgical tasks to complex surgeries with different complications. This article describes the development process and the results of the validation of the training system.
Social Mix Revisited: Neighbourhood Institutions as Setting for Boundary Work and Social Capital
Authors: Nast Julia , Blokland Talja
Published: October 2013

Policy makers tend to think that residential ‘mixing’ of classes and ethnic groups will enhance social capital. Scholars criticize such ‘mixing’ on empirical and theoretical grounds. This article argues that the critics may focus too much on neighbourhoods. Mixing within neighbourhood institutions might work differently, we argue, drawing on data from a mixed school in Berlin, Germany. While class boundaries are constructed, we also find class-crossing identifications based on setting-specific characteristics, highlighting the setting’s importance and the agency of lower/working and middle-class parents. Parents create ties for exchanging setting-specific resources: child-related social capital. Institutional neighbourhood settings can hence be important for boundary work and social capital. Criticism of social capital and social mix should not overlook the role of networks for urban inequality.
Student motivation for learning in Ghana: Relationships with caregivers’ values toward education, attendance, and academic achievement
Authors: McCoy Dana Charles , Wolf Sharon , Godfrey Erin B.
Published: October 2013

This study examined the role that Ghanaian caregivers’ values toward education play in shaping students’ intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation for learning, and the ways these values and motivational orientations predict school attendance and achievement. Study participants included 88 students (M = 11.63 years; 48% female) from two primary schools in peri-urban Ghana and their 68 caregivers (M = 40.02 years; 60% female). Results revealed that caregivers’ perception of education as valuable was related to more intrinsically oriented profiles of motivation and higher attendance in students. Contrary to research results from Western contexts, students whose motivation was more extrinsically oriented attended school significantly more often than their intrinsically motivated peers. Finally, although attendance positively predicted academic achievement, neither caregiver values nor student motivational profiles were directly related to achievement. These findings suggest that caregivers’ values may have important implications for students’ academic thoughts and behaviours, and may be a central target for school staff aiming to improve student outcomes. These results also highlight the need for better understanding of motivational processes―both in terms of socialization and academic outcomes―in under-represented contexts where cultural values around education differ.
Sinus node dysfunction complicating viper bite
Authors: Agarwal Ashish , Kumar Tarun , Ravindranath Khandenahally S , Bhat Prabhavathi , Manjunath Cholenahally N , Agarwal Neena
Published: October 2013

Viper venom toxicities comprise mainly bleeding disorders and nephrotoxicity. Cardiotoxicity is a rare manifestation of viper bite. We describe the case of a previously healthy 35-year-old man who developed coagulopathy and sinus node dysfunction following a viper bite. Electrocardiography showed sinus arrest and junctional escape rhythm. This is the first account of sinus node dysfunction caused by a viper bite.
Growth Failure in Children
Authors: Al Nofal Alaa , Schwenk W. Frederick
Published: October 2013

One of the most important aspects of a well‐child examination is an assessment of a child's growth. Children who are failing to grow are often labeled “failure to thrive.” However, close examination of the pattern of growth on standardized growth charts often allows the caregiver to characterize the growth failure as failure to grow, failure to gain weight, or failure to grow and gain weight. Such refinement of the pattern of growth failure allows for a more specific differential diagnosis and helps to focus laboratory and radiographic evaluation.
Energy Expenditure in Acute Posttraumatic Amputation
Authors: Robins Kathleen , Stankorb Susan M. , Salgueiro Marybeth
Published: October 2013

Background: Adequate energy intake is a component of successful recovery after injury, yet little is known about the energy requirements in the acute period following traumatic amputation. The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical applicability of resting energy expenditure (REE) measured by a handheld calorimeter and estimated by 3 different predictive equations to that measured by the gold standard, indirect calorimetry using a metabolic cart, during the acute postamputation period of inpatient hospitalization. Materials and Methods: Indirect calorimetry measured using both a metabolic cart and handheld calorimeter and predicted by 3 equations were used to assess energy needs of eligible subjects admitted to Brooke Army Medical Center with traumatic amputation(s). REE measured by the handheld calorimeter and estimated using 3 predictive equations (Mifflin St. Jeor, Ireton‐Jones 1992, and the American College of Chest Physicians [ACCP]) were compared to the gold standard metabolic cart. Each measure was assessed for significant differences and level of clinical acceptability defined as ± 10% REE by metabolic cart. Results: Thirteen male service members with traumatic amputation(s) were included. The majority of subject's measurements using the handheld calorimeter (n = 9, 69%) and 3 predictive equations (Mifflin St. Jeor [n = 7, 54%], Ireton‐Jones 1992 [n = 8, 62%], ACCP [n = 7, 54%]) fell outside of the ± 10% range of clinical acceptability. Conclusion: Use of the metabolic cart for measuring energy needs remains optimal in this population.
What we know and what we need to know about graduate skills
Authors: James Susan , Warhurst Chris , Tholen Gerbrand , Commander Johanna
Published: October 2013

The expansion of higher education has led to more graduates in the UK labour market. Despite government expectations, this expansion has not boosted national economic competitiveness. This article argues that current understanding of the impact of graduates’ skills is limited by methodological and conceptual narrowness in current research and that a broader research agenda is required. This agenda needs to cover not just the supply but also the demand, development and deployment of graduates’ skills and, as a consequence, distinguish between ‘graduate skills’ acquired in higher education and the ‘skills of graduates’ formed prior to, in and parallel to higher education.
Development of an electric oil pump control algorithm for an automatic-transmission-based hybrid electric vehicle considering the gear shift characteristics
Authors: Song Minseok , Oh Joseph , Kim Jonghyun , Kim Youngchul , Yi Jaeshin , Kim Yeonho , Kim Hyunsoo
Published: October 2013

In this paper, an electric oil pump control algorithm for an automatic-transmission-based hybrid electric vehicle was proposed. Dynamic models of the hybrid electric vehicle powertrain and hydraulic control system, including a mechanical oil pump and an electric oil pump, were obtained, and a hybrid electric vehicle performance simulator was developed. Also, a flow consumption model of the hydraulic control system was constructed. To represent the characteristics of the hydraulic control system according to the change in the temperature of the automatic transmission fluid, a viscosity index concept was introduced. Based on the simulation and test results, a viscosity index–line pressure–electric oil pump power map was proposed to describe the power supply requirement according to the viscosity index and the required line pressure. Using the viscosity index–line pressure–electric oil pump power map, an electric oil pump control algorithm was suggested to control the electric oil pump by using multi-stage power for a given viscosity index. The mechanical oil pump speed at which the electric oil pump is turned off was obtained on the basis of the flow consumption model. The electric oil pump control algorithm was evaluated by experiments and simulations. The proposed electric oil pump control algorithm satisfied the target line pressure requirement according to the viscosity index. In addition, an electric oil pump control strategy during an automatic transmission gear shift was suggested for the situation in which the maximum line pressure required for the gear shift cannot be achieved by only the mechanical oil pump. The electric-oil-pump-assisted power was determined from the flow consumption model and the mechanical oil pump speed considering the gear shift. The simulation results confirmed that the electric oil pump control strategy satisfied the maximum line pressure during a gear shift.
Evidence of historic infilling of valleys in Lanzarote after the Timanfaya eruption (ad 1730–1736, Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: Criado C , Dorta P , Bethencourt J , Navarro JF , Romero C , García C
Published: October 2013

The Timanfaya eruption (1730–1736) was the most important volcanic event on the Canary Islands during historical times (after the 15th century ad). It produced lava flows and pyroclastic layers that buried around 23% of Lanzarote’s surface. Throughout the island, artificial cross-sections such as soil quarries and road trenches reveal an ash layer covering palaeosoils (argids) or interbedded with alluvial sediment, infilling the bottoms of U-shaped valleys. Five cross-sections located in different parts of the island (Puerto Calero, Femés, Tiagua, Guatiza and Valle de San José) were subjected to sedimentological analyses of colour, texture, carbonate-content and grain-sizes; sand fractions were also studied and finally, mineralogy using x-ray diffraction, and geochemistry (total oxides and trace elements) were applied. These data, along with radiocarbon ages, archaeological remains (pottery) and historical documents, identify the ash layer as part of the Timanfaya eruption. The alluvial sediments covering this layer could have been produced by runoff from heavy rain events, probably the famous Huracán de 1826, also known as the Tormenta de San Florencio.
A robust adaptive control scheme for an active mount using a dynamic engine model
Authors: Fakhari Vahid , Ohadi Abdolreza , Talebi Heidar Ali
Published: October 2013

In this study, a robust adaptive control method is employed for an active engine mount in a six-degree-of-freedom model of the engine on the mounts to improve vibration behavior of the engine. The vibration isolation performance and robustness of the employed robust adaptive controller are compared with a robust and an adaptive control technique. In addition, effectiveness of the robust adaptive control is evaluated in transient conditions (accelerating and gear change conditions). In this regard, a dynamic model for the engine supported by rubber and active mounts and its governing equations are presented. Then, a robust adaptive control, namely the robust Model Reference Adaptive Control (robust MRAC) technique, based on the gradient method with σ-modification, is designed by selecting a proper reference model. Moreover, a robust control, namely the H∞ control scheme and an adaptive control, namely MRAC, are employed for the active mount. Simulation results show that the robust MRAC has a better control performance (in reducing the transmitted force to the chassis) as compared with the H∞ scheme. In addition, in the face of large uncertainties, MRAC may diverge and become unstable. However, the robust MRAC is robust in the presence of large uncertainties. Also, robust MRAC is effective not only in constant engine speeds, but also in transient conditions.
Legacy of Our Grandmothers
Authors: Boles Jessika C. , Berbary Lisbeth A.
Published: October 2013

What is a legacy? Is it the conferral of monetary goods, physical artifacts, or memories? Or is legacy an extension of the self, complicated and crystallized, as it is refracted through the stories of those left behind? Using the improvisational methodology of collaborative narrative refraction, we sought to deconstruct the concept of legacy as we have experienced it through the loss of our grandmothers in this performative piece. As we spoke about our memories and narratives with one another, shared meaningful artifacts, and engaged in dialogical autobiographical storytelling, we began to think differently about not only our grandmothers’ legacies but also our own legacies as we are constantly constructing them. For us, legacy is not a passive bequeathal to the next generation but rather a current, constant, and complex intermingling of experiences and interactions that are ever refracted through the self and those who have gone before us.
Titles Я Us!
Authors: Badley Graham Francis
Published: October 2013

Using “Titles Я Us!” as a metaphor, I explore the case that when academics choose titles for their texts, they also reveal something about who they are. First, I briefly discuss the theory of titles—“titology”—as paratexts and pre-texts. Second, I identify several categories of title. Third, I analyze five recently published articles as mini-case studies and question whether they reveal anything useful about writer stance and writer voice. Finally, I conclude that titles are not only thresholds into what academics write but also into what and who they are.
The True Impact of Evaluation
Authors: Clinton Janet
Published: October 2013

There is a growing call for evaluation capacity building (ECB); although the area currently lacks a rich research base, there are few robust methods and practice through which to define it. The argument in this article is that the impact of evaluation is mediated by program stakeholders’ engagement in evaluation activities. This mediation provides a foundation for a consideration of the merit of ECB. This study sought to find confirmation that stakeholder engagement in evaluation could influence the outcomes of a program and thus subsequently provide evidence as to the merit and significance of evaluation engagement. Multiple forms of evaluation data were collected for two long-term public health evaluations and coded and collated again on an evidence-based rubric in close consultation with the community. The influence of stakeholder’s willingness and capacity to engage in evaluation activity was also investigated. The analysis revealed that stakeholders’ engagement in evaluations provided reasonably unique contributions to the overall program outcomes. This article provides the impetus for evaluation-based capacity building, in that it presents empirical evidence that willingness, capacity to engage in evaluation activities, and the use of evaluation information increases the probability of achieving desired outcomes and sustainability.
On the Mutually Informing Relationship Between Practice and Theory in Evaluation
Authors: Schwandt Thomas A.
Published: October 2013

The relationship between theory and practice, or between theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge, is not a simple one, and rarely is it the case that theory is 'applied' to practice. This paper aims to clarify the relationship by briefly discussing the nature of practical problems and the role that theoretical knowledge plays in addressing those problems.
A Partnership Model for Evaluation
Authors: Menestrel Suzanne M. Le , Walahoski Jill S. , Mielke Monica B.
Published: October 2013

The 4-H youth development organization is a complex public–private partnership between the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the nation’s Cooperative Extension system and National 4-H Council, a private, nonprofit partner. The current article is focused on a partnership approach to the evaluation of a national 4-H Science initiative that engaged both internal and external evaluators as well as key stakeholders. While external evaluators are valued for their relative lack of bias and independence, internal evaluation has been the predominant strategy used by the Cooperative Extension system. For this evaluation, we adopted a hybrid approach that teamed an external evaluation firm with a team of internal evaluators and key stakeholders. We discuss specific strategies and approaches that we developed to implement this approach in the 4-H youth development organization and offer suggestions for how it might be useful in other complex, multipartner organizations.
Assessment of behavioural changes in domestic cats during short-term hospitalisation
Authors: Zeiler Gareth E , Fosgate Geoffrey T , van Vollenhoven Elize , Rioja Eva
Published: October 2013

We evaluated behavioural changes in domestic cats during short-term hospitalisation using a novel cat demeanour scoring system. Thirty-five healthy, client-owned cats admitted for neutering were enrolled. Cats were housed in a standardised cat ward for a short-term hospitalisation period (3–5 days) and demeanour scores were recorded once daily. The scoring system classified cats into one of five behavioural groupings: friendly and confident, friendly and shy, withdrawn and protective, withdrawn and aggressive, and overtly aggressive. Total demeanour score decreased over time ( P <0.001) and the demeanour category improved ( P <0.001). The intra-class correlation was 0.843 ( P <0.001) and kappa was 0.606 ( P <0.001), suggesting good repeatability and agreement among investigators. The demeanour scoring system was effective in detecting a change in behaviour in healthy cats undergoing short-term hospitalisation. The findings suggest that healthy cats require 2 days to acclimatise to hospitalisation.
Sustainability of improvements in access to outpatient specialist care in the Netherlands
Authors: van der Voort Marc R , van Wijngaarden Jeroen , Janssen Stan , Berden Bart , van Merode Frits
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To improve access to specialist outpatient clinics without adding capacity, Dutch hospitals applied the concept of ‘Advanced Access’. Our aim was to determine whether initial improvements are sustained for three years and to identify the factors that influence sustainability.

Methods

Qualitative case studies in 14 outpatient specialist clinics. Access measurements at the start, finish and three years after the project were compared. Analysis of sustained and new interventions. Interviews with 52 practitioners, analysed with the constant comparative method to identify general factors that influence sustainability.

Results

Eleven out of 14 clinics were able to sustain or improve their reduced delays; two did not and for one it is uncertain. The clinics maintained the majority of the interventions and all introduced new interventions. Three generic factors emerged that influenced their ability to sustain the results: increased responsiveness to better match supply and demand; clinical leadership and incentives; and a shared belief that they can and should control access together.

Conclusions

Reduction of delays in access can be sustained if the way of thinking and the planning system becomes demand driven and flexible and if care providers experience benefits. Unlike previous studies, senior management support and formal training was not relevant though clinical leadership and informal socialization was. Making multidisciplinary teams responsible for improvement appears to be vital.
Animals, daguerreotypes and movement: The despair of fading and the emergence of ontology
Authors: Lulka David
Published: October 2013

Animals are not well represented in daguerreotypes, yet their visage within them is quite informative. The inclusion of animals was inhibited by their penchant for movement, which confounded the capabilities of the daguerreotype. Nonetheless, people sought to incorporate animals into portraits, the result often being a smeared image of the being. Rather than viewing this outcome as a failure, the smeared images should be viewed as theoretically and philosophically insightful. On the one hand, the smears suggest the frailty of existence during an era in which disease and death were common, a condition that instigated the creation of lasting daguerreotypes. On the other hand, the smears indicate the transient character of life in all ages, a condition that points toward an altered conception of animal ontology. These social and ontological insights have ramifications for present-day relations.
Consistent Components of Behavior Change Theories
Authors: Moreno Jennette P. , Johnston Craig A.
Published: October 2013

Psychological theories provide a framework through which to conceptualize the individual and their health problems. Although considerable variability exists between theories, raising awareness and providing patients with clear and specific feedback are consistent links in the application of these models. Engaging in these practices significantly increases the likelihood of promoting behavioral change.
A community pain service solution-focused pain management programme: delivery and preliminary outcome data
Authors: Simm Rebecca , Iddon Joanne , Barker Chris
Published: October 2013

Summary points

1. This article introduces a rationale for a solution-focused approach to a community-based pain management programme (PMP), describing delivery and preliminary outcome data.

2. It suggests PMPs can be feasibly run in the community without necessity for hospital care setting.

3. A community setting is also advantageous in that it allows maintenance of social networks and close third-sector links to support long-term, sustained mental well-being.

4. Solution-focused psychological approaches help the clinician tap into patient expertise and develop rich descriptions of the patient’s preferred future, enhancing self-efficacy and empowerment.

5. Evaluation found significant statistical and clinical improvements in pre–post pain self-efficacy, mental well-being and function (but findings were limited by internal and external validity and no significant effect was found on pain levels).

6. Statistically significant change was maintained at 10 weeks for self-efficacy and function (and for the latter, clinically significant change was also maintained); improvements in mental well-being showed maintenance at all measured time points (up to 12 months) in terms of both statistical and clinical significant changes.
Primary care practitioner and patient understanding of the concepts of multimorbidity and self-management: A qualitative study
Authors: Kenning Cassandra , Fisher Louise , Bee Penny , Bower Peter , Coventry Peter
Published: October 2013

Objectives:

The aim of this article is to offer insight into how professionals and patients understand and experience multimorbidity and how these accounts differ, and how they affect attitudes and engagement with self-management.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews with 20 primary healthcare practitioners and 20 patients with at least 2 long-term conditions (including coronary heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and depression). Thematic analysis was used, and themes were identified using an open-coding method.

Results:

Practitioners associated multimorbidity with complexity and uncertainty in the clinic, leading to emotional strain and ‘heart sink’. Patient accounts differed. Some described multimorbidity as problematic when it exacerbated their symptoms and caused emotional and psychological strain. Others did not perceive multimorbidity as problematic. Self-management was seen by practitioners and patients to be a key element of managing multiple conditions, but drivers for prompting and engaging in self-management differed between patients and practitioners.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that recommendations for clinical practice for multimorbid patients should take into account the gap in perceptions between practitioner and patients about experiences of multimorbidity. Not least, practice would need to reflect the tension between practitioners’ and patients’ accounts about the role and benefits of self-management in the presence of multimorbidity.
Preparation of Al–Mn and Al–Si alloys cladding hollow billets by horizontal electromagnetic continuous casting
Authors: Liu N. , Song X. Y. , Jie J. C. , Fu Y. , Cao Z. Q. , Li T. J.
Published: October 2013

The cladding hollow billet of Al–1 wt-Mn and Al–10 wt-Si alloys was prepared by horizontal electromagnetic continuous casting. Microstructures, composition distribution and microhardness of the interface were investigated. The results show that the ingot combines the external and internal layers by excellent metallurgical bonding without mixing. Si and Mn atoms mutually diffuse in the interfacial region between the two alloys, and the diffusion distance of the former is longer than that of the latter. In addition, a lot of tiny particles that are identified to be the intermetallic compound Al12(FeMn)3Si are observed near the interface.
Plastic properties and constitutive equations of 42CrMo steel during warm forming process
Authors: Li Y. Y. , Zhao S. D. , Fan S. Q. , Zhong B.
Published: October 2013

In order to obtain the practical warm forming process parameters of 42CrMo steel in manufacturing, the plastic properties and constitutive equations of 42CrMo steel during the warm forming process are investigated through the isothermal compression tests. The results show that the true stress of 42CrMo steel increases as the forming temperature decreases and the strain rate increases; the strain rate sensitivity increases as the forming temperature increases, but decreases when the forming temperature is >750°C; the maximum strain rate sensitivity exponent 0·0988 appears at 700°C and the true strain of 0·65; the temperature sensitivity decreases as the strain rate and true strain increase; the strain hardening exponent decreases slowly as the true strain increases under the strain rates of 0·01, 0·1 and 1 s−1, but it decreases sharply under the strain rate of 10 s−1, especially the strain hardening exponent increases when the true strain is >0·55 under 750°C and the strain rate is 0·01s−1. Furthermore, the developed constitutive equations represented by a Zener–Hollomon parameter could give a precise estimate (correlation coefficient: R = 0·99) for the plastic flow behaviour of 42CrMo steel during the warm forming process.
Grain refining AlSi7Mg0·3 foundry alloy with commercial Al–4B master alloy
Authors: Birol Y.
Published: October 2013

Al–B master alloys can replace ternary Al–Ti–B grain refiners in grain refining Al–Si foundry alloys since the latter are susceptible to Si poisoning. The grain refining efficiency of Al–B master alloys is remarkable provided that the B supply is in excess of that required to precipitate Ti as well as other elements, the borides of which are more stable than those of aluminium. B needed to counteract the poisoning effect of these elements in a typical commercial AlSi7Mg0·3 alloy is estimated to be ∼650 ppm B. This is a high B addition rate where the AlB2 platelets are no longer soluble and are thus prone to sedimentation. This problem is made worse owing to the clustering of the borides in commercial Al–B master alloys, which in turn leads to low B recoveries. Hence, it takes an additional 500 ppm, and as much as 1150 ppm B in total, to achieve grains as small as 150 μm in a commercial AlSi7Mg0·3 alloy.
Interfacial characteristics of Cu–Fe laminate fabricated by solid state welding
Authors: Yang Y. H. , Lin G. Y. , Chen D. D. , Wang X. Y. , Wang D. Z. , Yu H. C.
Published: October 2013

Solid state welding was employed to join low intersolubility metal couple Cu–Fe, and the microstructure and mechanical properties of the joints were investigated. The interface was free of defects. Scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, atomic force microscopy and nanoindentation results revealed that a potential area of pseudo-binary alloy was present at the faying surface, where nanoscale particles were moved to the opposite side by facilitated diffusion. Owing to the mechanism of microcontact and facilitated diffusion, the interfacial strength was improved.
Hot deformation behaviour of niobium in temperature range 700–1500°C
Authors: Behera A. N. , Kapoor R. , Sarkar A. , Chakravartty J. K.
Published: October 2013

Niobium was hot deformed in vacuum in uniaxial compression to a true strain of 0·6 in the temperature range of 700–1500°C and the strain rate range of 10−3–10 s−1. Strain rate sensitivity was calculated from the compression tests data and mapped out in contour plots with the aim to optimise the hot workability of niobium. The domain of hot workability was identified in the temperature range of 1200–1500°C and strain rate range of 10−2–1 s−1. In this domain the strain rate sensitivity was ∼0·15, the stress exponent 7·5 and the activation energy 246 kJ mol−1. Microstructure of the deformed samples showed features of dynamic recrystallisation within the high strain rate sensitivity domain and features of flow instability in the regime of low strain rate sensitivity. Compared to a previous study on Nb–1Zr–0·1C alloy, Nb showed a lower flow stress and an optimum hot working domain at lower temperatures.
Unsteady flow softening behaviour of near beta Ti alloy TLM during hot deformation
Authors: Bai X. F. , Zhao Y. Q. , Zeng W. D. , Zhang Y. S. , Yu S.
Published: October 2013

Ti–3Zr–2Sn–3Mo–25Nb (TLM) titanium alloys are compressed at the 850°C temperature and 0·1 s−1 strain rate. The behaviour of unsteady flow softening with the oscillation of the flow stress–strain curve is observed during hot compression, and deformation mechanism of unsteady flow softening is investigated. The experimental results show that the stress–strain curve of TLM alloy in hot compression exhibits the character of four stages: the elastic stage, the stress plateau stage, the strain workhardening stage (true strain, 5·1–15), the steady flow softening stage (true strain, 15–35) and the obviously unsteady flow softening stage with the oscillation (>35). Unsteady flow softening behaviour with the oscillation of TLM alloy is related to dynamic recrystallisation, and the flow stress is prone to oscillation with multiple peaks at the thermomechanical processing parameters of 0·1 s−1 strain rate, deformation temperature of 850°C and initial microstructure with a grain size of 50 μm.
Functional and differential proteomic analyses to identify platelet derived factors affecting ex vivo expansion of mesenchymal stromal cells
Authors: Kinzebach Sven , Dietz Lisa , Klüter Harald , Thierse Hermann-Josef , Bieback Karen
Published: October 2013

Background

Multilineage differentiation, immunomodulation and secretion of trophic factors render mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) highly attractive for clinical application. Human platelet derivatives such as pooled human platelet lysate (pHPL) and thrombin-activated platelet releasate in plasma (tPRP) have been introduced as alternatives to fetal bovine serum (FBS) to achieve GMP-compliance. However, whereas both pHPL and tPRP support similar proliferation kinetics of lipoaspirate-derived MSC (LA-MSC), only pHPL significantly accelerates bone marrow-derived MSC (BM-MSC) expansion. To identify functionally bioactive factors affecting ex vivo MSC expansion, a differential proteomic approach was performed and identified candidate proteins were evaluated within a bioassay.

Results

Two dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE), MALDI-TOF analyses and complementary Western blotting revealed 20 differential protein species. 14 candidate proteins occured at higher concentrations in pHPL compared to tPRP and 6 at higher concentrations in tPRP. The candidate proteins fibrinogen and apolipoprotein A1 differentially affected LA- and BM-MSC proliferation.

In a second set of experiments, reference cytokines known to foster proliferation in FBS were tested for their effects in the human supplements. Interestingly although these cytokines promoted proliferation in FBS, they failed to do so when added to the humanized system.

Conclusions

The differential proteomic approach identified novel platelet derived factors differentially acting on human MSC proliferation. Complementary testing of reference cytokines revealed a lack of stimulation in the human supplements compared to FBS. The data describe a new coherent approach to combine proteomic technologies with functional testing to develop novel, humanized, GMP-compliant conditions for MSC expansion.
Performance of a HRP-2/pLDH based rapid diagnostic test at the Bangladesh-India-Myanmar border areas for diagnosis of clinical malaria
Authors: Elahi Rubayet , Mohon Abu Naser , Khan Wasif A , Haque Rashidul , Alam Mohammad Shafiul
Published: October 2013

Background

The rapid diagnostic test (RDT) has been adopted in contemporary malaria control and management programmes around the world as it represents a fast and apt alternative for malaria diagnosis in a resource-limited setting. This study assessed the performance of a HRP-2/pLDH based RDT (Parascreen® Pan/Pf) in a laboratory setting utilizing clinical samples obtained from the field.

Methods

Whole blood samples were obtained from febrile patients referred for malaria diagnosis by clinicians from two different Upazila Health Complexes (UHCs) located near the Bangladesh-India and Bangladesh-Myanmar border where malaria is endemic. RDT was performed on archived samples and sensitivity and specificity evaluated with expert microscopy (EM) and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Results

A total of 327 clinical samples were made available for the study, of which 153 werePlasmodium falciparum-positive and 54 werePlasmodium vivax-positive. In comparison with EM, forP. falciparummalaria, the RDT had sensitivity: 96.0% (95% CI, 91.2-98.3) and specificity: 98.2% (95% CI, 94.6-99.5) and forP. vivax, sensitivity: 90.7% (95% CI, 78.9-96.5) and specificity: 98.9% (95% CI, 96.5-99.7). Comparison with qPCR showed, forP. falciparummalaria, sensitivity: 95.4% (95% CI, 90.5-98.0) and specificity: 98.8% (95% CI, 95.4-99.7) and forP. vivaxmalaria, sensitivity: 89.0% (95% CI,77.0-95.4) and specificity: 98.8% (95% CI, 96.5-99.7). Sensitivity varied according to different parasitaemia for falciparum and vivax malaria diagnosis.

Conclusion

Parascreen® Pan/Pf Rapid test for malariashowed acceptable sensitivity and specificity in border belt endemic areas of Bangladesh when compared with EM and qPCR.
Molecular characterization and impacts of a strain of Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 2 causing asymptomatic infection in a wine grape cultivar
Authors: Poojari Sudarsana , Alabi Olufemi J , Naidu Rayapati A
Published: October 2013

Background

Grapevine leafroll (GLD) is considered as the most economically important virus disease affecting wine grapes (Vitis viniferaL.) in many grapevine-growing regions. GLD produces distinct symptoms in red- and white-berried cultivars. In this study, we determined the complete genome sequence of an asymptomatic strain ofGrapevine leafroll-associated virus 2(GLRaV-2) and studied its impacts on fruit yield and berry quality attributes in an own-rooted, red-berried wine grape cultivar.

Findings

The complete genome of GLRaV-2 obtained from a red-berried wine grape cultivar Sangiovese, designated as GLRaV-2-SG, was determined to be 16,474 nucleotides in length. In pairwise comparisons, using complete genome sequences of GLRaV-2 strains available in GenBank, GLRaV-2-SG was more closely related to GLRaV-2-OR1 from Oregon, USA, and GLRaV-2-93/955 from South Africa, and distantly related to GLRaV-2-BD from Italy and GLRaV-2-RG from USA. Fruit yield estimates and berry quality analysis at the time of commercial harvest indicated that GLRaV-2-SG had little impact on fruit yield and total soluble solids, juice pH and total anthocyanins of berry skin.

Conclusions

Because so little is known about the effects of asymptomatic virus infections in wine grapes, this study expanded our knowledge of the occurrence and impacts of GLRaV-2 causing asymptomatic infections. Our results indicated that an asymptomatic strain of GLRaV-2 may not cause significant effects to overall fruit yield and berry quality in own-rooted vines, but can affect its host in more subtle ways. Since disease symptoms are not apparent, relying on visual symptoms during disease surveys may result in the escape of asymptomatic strains of GLRaV-2. Thus, it is necessary to use appropriate diagnostic assays for reliable detection of viruses causing asymptomatic infections.
Tricuspid valve obstruction and right heart failure due to a giant right atrial myxoma arising from the superior vena cava
Authors: Xiao Zheng-hua , Hu Jia , Zhu Da , Shi Ying-kang , Zhang Er-yong
Published: October 2013

Myxomas are the most common primary cardiac tumors. The cardiac myxomas are mostly diagnosed within the atria, and only a few such tumors are reported to have arisen from atrioventricular valves or pulmonary vessels. The authors here present a case of 59-year-old Chinese woman who was hospitalized for exacerbating symptoms of tricuspid stenosis and right heart failure. Echocardiography revealed a giant right atrial myxoma arising from an extremely rare site, the anterior wall of the superior vena cava. With the aid of transesophageal echocardiography, the surgical resection was performed successfully with the patient achieving complete recovery.