bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Composite and Sheet Metal Laminated Bistable Jumping Mechanism
Authors: Jung Sun-Pill , Jung Gwang-Pil , Koh Je-Sung , Lee Dae-Young , Cho Kyu-Jin
Published: January 2015

A layer-based manufacturing method using composite microstructures is widely used for mesoscale robot fabrication. This fabrication method has enabled the development of a lightweight and robust jumping robot, but there are limitations in relation to the embedding of elastic components. In this paper, a fabrication method for embedding an elastic component at an angled position is developed, extending the capability of the composite microstructures. This method is then used to build an axial spring attached to the bistable mechanism of a jumping robot. Sheet metal is used as an elastic component, which is stamped after the layering and curing process, thereby changing the neutral position of the spring. Two linear springs are designed to be in parallel with a joint to impose bistability; thereby delivering two stable states. This bistable mechanism is triggered with a shape memory alloy (SMA) coil spring actuator. A small-scale jumping mechanism is then fabricated using this mechanism; it jumps when the snap-through of the bistable mechanism occurs. A model of the stamped sheet metal spring is built based on a pseudo rigid body model (PRBM) to estimate the spring performance, and a predictive sheet metal bending model is also built to design the die for stamping. The experimental results show that the stamped sheet metal spring stores 12.63 mJ of elastic energy, and that the mechanism can jump to a height of 175 mm with an initial takeoff velocity of 1.93 m/s.
Integrated Manufacture of Exoskeletons and Sensing Structures for Folded Millirobots
Authors: Haldane Duncan W. , Casarez Carlos S. , Karras Jaakko T. , Lee Jessica , Li Chen , Pullin Andrew O. , Schaler Ethan W. , Yun Dongwon , Ota Hiroki , Javey Ali , Fearing Ronald S.
Published: January 2015

Inspired by the exoskeletons of insects, we have developed a number of manufacturing methods for the fabrication of structures for attachment, protection, and sensing. This manufacturing paradigm is based on infrared laser machining of lamina and the bonding of layered structures. The structures have been integrated with an inexpensive palm-sized legged robot, the VelociRoACH [Haldane et al., 2013, “Animal-Inspired Design and Aerodynamic Stabilization of a Hexapedal Millirobot,” IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Robotics and Automation, Karlsruhe, Germany, May 6–10, pp. 3279–3286]. We also present a methodology to design and fabricate folded robotic mechanisms, and have released an open-source robot, the OpenRoACH, as an example implementation of these techniques. We present new composite materials which enable the fabrication of stronger, larger scale smart composite microstructures (SCM) robots. We demonstrate how thermoforming can be used to manufacture protective structures resistant to water and capable of withstanding terminal velocity falls. A simple way to manufacture traction enhancing claws is demonstrated. An electronics layer can be incorporated into the robot structure, enabling the integration of distributed sensing. We present fabrication methods for binary and analog force sensing arrays, as well as a carbon nanotube (CNT) based strain sensor which can be fabricated in place. The presented manufacturing methods take advantage of low-cost, high accuracy two-dimensional fabrication processes which will enable low-cost mass production of robots integrated with mechanical linkages, an exoskeleton, and body and limb sensing.
A Modification of Murray's Law for Shear-Thinning Rheology
Authors: McGah Patrick M. , Capobianchi Massimo
Published: January 2015

This study reformulates Murray's well-known principle of minimum work as applied to the cardiovascular system to include the effects of the shear-thinning rheology of blood. The viscous behavior is described using the extended modified power law (EMPL), which is a time-independent, but shear-thinning rheological constitutive equation. The resulting minimization problem is solved numerically for typical parameter ranges. The non-Newtonian analysis still predicts the classical cubic diameter dependence of the volume flow rate and the cubic branching law. The current analysis also predicts a constant wall shear stress throughout the vascular tree, albeit with a numerical value about 15–25% higher than the Newtonian analysis. Thus, experimentally observed deviations from the cubic branching law or the predicted constant wall shear stress in the vasculature cannot likely be attributed to blood's shear-thinning behavior. Further differences between the predictions of the non-Newtonian and the Newtonian analyses are highlighted, and the limitations of the Newtonian analysis are discussed. Finally, the range and limits of applicability of the current results as applied to the human arterial tree are also discussed.
Shape Identification for Controlling the Static Deformation of Frame Structures
Authors: Kameyama Koki , Shimoda Masatoshi , Morimoto Takashi
Published: January 2015

The deformation control is an important design problem in the stiffness design of structures and it also enables to give a function to the structures. This paper proposes a non-parametric, or a node-based shape optimization method based on the variational method for controlling the static deformation of spatial frame structures. As the objective functional, we introduce the sum of squared error norms to the desired displacements on specified members. Under the assumption that each member varies in the out-of-plane direction to the centroidal axis, the shape gradient function and the optimality conditions are theoretically derived. The shape gradient function is applied to a gradient method in a function space with a Laplacian smoother. With this method, an optimal free-form frame structure with smoothness can be identified for a desired static deformation. The validity and effectiveness were verified through design examples.
Efficient Microstructural Design for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Suresh Krishnan
Published: January 2015

A salient feature of additive manufacturing is that the cost of fabrication, to a large extent, is independent of geometric complexity. This opens new opportunities for custom-designing parts both at a macro and micro-level. An elegant and powerful method of designing custom-parts is through topology optimization.

While the theory of topology optimization is well understood, current methods can be extraordinarily expensive. The focus of this paper is on efficient microstructural topology optimization for 3d-printing. In particular, the computational bottle-necks in microstructural topology optimization are identified. Then, a framework that not only eliminates these bottle-necks, but incorporates other significant improvements, is developed. The framework is demonstrated through numerical experiments involving microstructures with millions of degrees of freedom, using multi-core CPUs and NVidia GPU.
How Online Design Communities Evolve Over Time: The Birth and Growth of OpenIDEO
Authors: Fuge Mark , Agogino Alice
Published: January 2015

While companies are turning to online communities of outside designers to bring new ideas into their product development process, several questions remain unanswered: How do design communities form, evolve, and die out over time? What integrates newcomers into the community? How can one grow community without impeding idea inspiration? This paper explores these questions by analyzing how OpenIDEO, an Open Innovation design platform, has evolved from conception to present day. We find that OpenIDEO possesses a stable core who frequently collaborate with transient members, and that large single communities have evolved into smaller but denser communities over time. Moreover, OpenIDEO’s use of community managers and incentives promotes an efficient network for generating new ideas, while fostering cohesive collaboration groups. By viewing design communities as an evolving network, we can guide future design communities to become sustainable and efficient — ultimately unlocking their potential to accelerate human development.
Preliminary Diagnostics of Dynamic Systems From Time Series
Authors: Kwuimy C. A. Kitio , Samadani M. , Nataraj C.
Published: January 2015

The state space reconstruction technique was recognized by Edward N. Lorenz as “one of the most surprising developments in nonlinear dynamics” [1]. Nowadays, the technique is applied in various scientific areas for prediction, analysis and diagnostics. This paper aims to discuss the possibility of using the embedding dimension of a reconstructed state space of time series as a tool for preliminary diagnostics. After a short description and illustration of the method, the paper considers two case studies: a single degree of freedom (DOF) and a 2 DOF system. The results of the analysis help detect a class of structural defects, including defects connected to a coupling mechanism. There is clearly a huge potential of such an approach for diagnostics of complex machinery.
Step by Step: The Feasibility of a 16-Week Workplace Lunchtime Walking Intervention for Physically Inactive Employees
Authors: Thøgersen-Ntoumani Cecilie , Loughren Elizabeth , Duda Joan , Fox Kenneth Richard
Published: January 2015

Background:

A 16-week lunchtime walking intervention was designed to increase physical activity in physically inactive University employees. The program was delivered and monitored twice over 7 months to examine feasibility across different seasons.

Methods:

Seventy-five participants (n = 69 females, n = 6 males; mean age = 47.68) were randomly allocated into a Winter (February start) or Spring group (May start). Participants were asked to complete 3 weekday lunchtime walks and 2 weekend walks. Weeks 1 to 10 were led by walk leaders (group phase) while the participants self-organized their walks during weeks 11 to 16 (independent phase). Yamax pedometers recorded daily step counts and walk group leaders recorded participant attendance in the group phase. Acceptability was assessed via a satisfaction survey and 2 focus groups with participants.

Results:

A participant pool representative by ethnicity, but not gender was recruited using a range of strategies. The program demonstrated good retention across both groups (73%). The intervention was acceptable to participants. More steps were accumulated in the group-led versus the independent phase.

Conclusion:

The intervention is feasible in this workplace setting across different seasonal periods. In the future, researchers should examine if the findings can be replicated in a definitive trial and generalize to other workplace settings.
Effects of Stabilization Exercises on Health-Related Quality of Life in Women With Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Moussouli Maria , Vlachopoulos Symeon P. , Kofotolis Nikolaos D. , Theodorakis Yannis , Malliou Paraskevi , Kellis Eleftherios
Published: January 2015

Background:

The study examined the effects of a 4-week intensive isometric and isotonic stabilization exercise program on dimensions of health-related quality of life (HRQL) in women with chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Methods:

A total of 39 women (27–72 years old) provided data in an experimental study with a 9-month follow-up. Random allocation was undertaken for the two treatment groups out of the 3 groups: isometric stabilization (n = 13), isotonic stabilization (n = 13), and a control group (n = 13) that did not participate in any form of exercise. Health-related quality of life measures using the Short-Form 36 Health Survey were assessed before program initiation, immediately after program termination, and 4 times postintervention for a period of 9 months.

Results:

The isometric stabilization group displayed large improvements in bodily pain and vitality for women with CLBP attending a 4-week intensive isometric stabilization exercise program. The effects were retained for a period of 9 months after program termination.

Conclusions:

Isometric stabilization exercises reduce pain and enhance vitality as dimensions of HRQL among women with chronic low back pain with such effects lasting for at least 9 months.
Are We Chained to Our Desks? Describing Desk-Based Sitting Using a Novel Measure of Occupational Sitting
Authors: Ryde Gemma Cathrine , Brown Helen Elizabeth , Gilson Nicholas David , Brown Wendy J.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Prolonged occupational sitting is related to poor health outcomes. Detailed data on sitting time at desks are required to understand and effectively influence occupational sitting habits.

Methods:

Full-time office employees were recruited (n = 105; mean age 40.9 ± 11.5 years; BMI 26.1 ± 3.9, 65% women). Sitting at the desk and in other work contexts was measured using a sitting pad and ActivPAL for an entire working week. Employees used a diary to record work hours. Time spent at work, sitting at work and at the desk; number of sit to stand transitions at the desk; and number of bouts of continuous sitting at the desk < 20 and > 60 minutes, were calculated.

Results:

Average time spent at work was 8.7 ± 0.8 hours/day with 67% spent sitting at the desk (5.8 ± 1.2 hours/day), and 4% in other workplace settings. On average, employees got up from their desks 3 times/hour (29 ± 13/day). Sitting for more than 60 consecutive minutes occurred infrequently (0.69 ± 0.62 times/day), with most sit to stands (80%; 23 ± 14) occurring before 20 minutes of continual sitting.

Conclusion:

The findings provide highly detailed insights into desk-based sitting habits, highlighting large proportions of time spent sitting at desks, but with frequent interruptions.
Community Development Corporations Could Potentially Improve Research on Causal Associations Between Environmental Features and Physical Activity
Authors: Suminski Richard , Wasserman Jason A. , Mayfield Carlene A. , Kubic Micah , Porter Julie
Published: January 2015

Background:

Community development corporations (CDC) are worldwide entities that create environments facilitating physical activity. At the same time, researchers face challenges conducting cost-effective, longitudinal studies on how environmental changes affect physical activity.

Objective:

To provide evidence suggesting that CDC initiatives could potentially be integrated into a research framework for examining the influence of environmental improvements on physical activity.

Methods:

Quality of Life Plans (QLP) developed by a CDC and stakeholders from 6 lower-income neighborhoods were systematically reviewed to obtain data about environmental features targeted for change and the strategies used to bring about those changes. Strategies were deemed pro–physical activity if previous studies suggested they have the potential to affect physical activity.

Results:

A total of 348 strategies were proposed of which 164 were pro–physical activity. Six environmental features were targeted including crime (57 strategies), aesthetics (39), facilities (30), walkability (17), destinations (14), and programs (5). Strategies involved implementing (90 strategies), planning (33), assessing (26), and securing funding (13). Progress reports indicated that 37.4% of the pro–physical activity strategies were implemented 1 year following the development of the QLPs.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that activities of CDCs could potentially be systematically integrated into the scientific study of environmental influences on physical activity.
Postural Characterization of Adolescent Federation Basketball Players
Authors: Guedes Patrícia Ferreira , Amado João Silvia Maria
Published: January 2015

Background:

The adolescent players federated to basketball have a high-level of endurance demand, often overloading the biological tissues and causing biomechanical compensations. Due to the immaturity of their musculoskeletal structures those consequences may influence the growing process and lead to the development of various postural patterns. We aimed to evaluate the postural alignment of the trunk in players.

Methods:

Participants, 74 healthy adolescents: 36 basketball players (BG) and 38 adolescents in control group (CG). First, adolescents were marked with spheres over specific anatomical landmarks. Postural photographs were taken in the sagittal and frontal planes, and analyzed using the free internet Postural Analysis Software to obtain quantitative measures of the head, shoulders, and trunk.

Results:

ANCOVA has revealed significant group effects: players demonstrated greater lateral spinal inclination (P < .008). In the right sagittal plane, the BG had lower angular values of forward head position (P < .02), pelvic ante version (P < .02), vertical alignment of the trunk (P < .02), and thoracic kyphosis (P < .005). The covariate analysis has indicated that age influences the alignments of both the shoulders and the left scapula; and height influences the scapular alignment.

Conclusions:

This study has demonstrated that basketball training within federations influences the musculoskeletal system of adolescents and reflects a process of postural adaptations.
Membrane Anchoring of Epstein-Barr Virus gp42 Inhibits Fusion with B Cells Even with Increased Flexibility Allowed by Engineered Spacers
Authors: Rowe Cynthia L. , Chen Jia , Jardetzky Theodore S. , Longnecker Richard
Published: January 2015

We recently described the architecture of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) fusion-triggering complex consisting of the EBV B cell receptor human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II and the EBV-encoded proteins gp42 and gH/gL. The architecture of this structure positioned the main body of gp42, comprising the C-type lectin domain (CTLD), away from the membrane and distant from where the membrane-bound form of gp42 might be tethered. gp42 is a type II membrane glycoprotein, with functional gp42 formed by cleavage near the gp42 amino-terminal transmembrane domain. This cleavage results in an approximately 50-amino-acid unstructured region that is responsible for binding gH/gL with nanomolar affinity. Our previous studies had shown that membrane-bound gp42 is not functional in B cell fusion. To investigate whether we could restore gp42 function by extending it from the membrane, we introduced one, two, and four structured immunoglobulin-like domains from muscle protein titin into a membrane-bound form of gp42 and tested function in binding to gHgL and HLA class II and function in fusion. We hypothesized that cleavage of gp42 generates a soluble functional form that relieves steric hindrance imposed on gHgL by membrane-bound gp42. All of the linker mutants had a dominant-negative effect on gp42 function, indicating that gp42 fusion function could not be restored simply by the addition of one to four titin domains.

IMPORTANCE
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with numerous diseases from benign mononucleosis to Burkitt’s and Hodgkin’s lymphoma, nasopharyngeal and gastric carcinoma, and lymphoproliferative disorders in patients with immune dysfunction resulting from immune suppression. Among the glycoproteins important for fusion, gp42, along with gH/gL, determines EBV tropism between epithelial and B cells. The function of gp42 is dependent on N-terminal cleavage, since membrane-bound gp42 cannot mediate fusion. We further investigated whether insertion of a linker into membrane-bound gp42 would relieve steric hindrance imposed on membrane-bound gp42 and restore fusion function. However, adding one, two, or four structured immunoglobulin-like domains to membrane gp42 did not restore fusion activity, indicating that the architecture and membrane orientation of the B cell fusion-triggering complex of EBV may be easily perturbed and that gp42 cleavage is essential for B cell fusion.
Severe combined immunodeficiency: recent developments and guidance on clinical management
Authors: Rivers Lizzy , Gaspar H Bobby
Published: January 2015

Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is a rare but important condition. Affected infants are born with profound abnormalities of immune cell function that lead to severe and recurrent infection that are almost always fatal in the first year of life without treatment. Infants with SCID are often initially seen by general paediatricians in the hospital care setting, and the recognition of the cardinal features of the disease and alertness to specific laboratory parameters are important in making an early diagnosis. There is also increasing interest in newborn screening for SCID, which has the potential to significantly improve outcome through early diagnosis and implementation of prophylactic medications. Definitive treatments such as haematopoietic stem cell transplantation and gene therapy have also made major advances over the last decade and again promise to improve the overall outcome for SCID with reduced long-term toxicities. In this review, we highlight some of the major advances in diagnosis and management of the disease, but we also want to emphasise the important role of the general paediatrician in making an early diagnosis and in ongoing management.
A rare but potentially fatal cause of diarrhoea and weight loss: enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Wali Gorav Neel , Tyrrell Helen Elizabeth Jane , Collins Graham P , Eagleton Helen J
Published: January 2015

Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) is a rare but potentially fatal cause of diarrhoea and weight loss. EATL commonly presents with abdominal pain, diarrhoea and weight loss, but can also present with complications such as bowel obstruction and perforation. It is a tumour of intraepithelial lymphocytes that occurs in a relatively young population. It is the most common neoplastic complication of coeliac disease, but can occur with no prior diagnosis of coeliac disease. This case demonstrates the difficulties that can be faced in diagnosing this disorder, particularly when there is no preceding history of coeliac disease. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance in order to start treatment before the effects of malnutrition increase the risk of complications from chemotherapy. Hence awareness of the condition among general medical physicians, to whom it will often present first, is essential. However, even with prompt diagnosis, outcomes for this condition remain poor.
Obliteration of the medullary canal in an atypical bisphosphonate-related femoral fracture
Authors: Cawley Derek T , Barrett Helen L , Harrington Paul
Published: January 2015

We present a case of a patient with a bisphosphonate-related atypical femoral fracture. Her surgical management was complicated by obliteration of the medullary canal, which prohibited the passage of an intramedullary nail. The relevant literature is discussed.
The catastrophic journey of a retained temporary epicardial pacemaker wire leading toEnterococcus faecalisendocarditis and subsequent stroke
Authors: Dyal Harleen Kaur , Sehgal Rohit
Published: January 2015

A 52-year-old man underwent triple coronary artery bypass graft (CABG). Three months later, he presented to the emergency room with dizziness and left-sided weakness. Workup revealed right frontal parenchymal haemorrhage; also, two retained temporary epicardial pacemaker wires (TEPW) from his previous CABG were observed, one of which had significantly migrated. One wire was found in the soft tissues below the heart; the other transversed the mediastinum from the expected location of the right atrium, perforating the right atrial appendage, entering the lumen of the ascending aorta and coursing into the mid-descending aorta. There were vegetations (Enterococcus spp) on the migrated TEPW and aortic valve, aortic valve endocarditis and aortic regurgitation. In summary, we suspect the migrated TEPW may be the source of bacteria that seeded the aortic valve, causing endocarditis and contributing to the patient's subsequent stroke. Management involved two 6-week antibiotic courses, wire-extraction, aortic valve replacement and redo CABG.
Rickettsial infection caused by accidental conjunctival inoculation
Authors: Brissos Joao , de Sousa Rita , Santos Ana Sofia , Gouveia Catarina
Published: January 2015

The most common transmission route of tick-borneRickettsiais through tick bite; nevertheless, other transmission routes should also be considered. We report a case of rickettsial infection in a 15-year-old boy caused by accidental contamination of the conjunctiva through the infected fluid of a crushed engorged tick removed from a dog. Right eye pain, conjunctival hyperaemia with mucopurulent exudate, chemosis and eyelid oedema were the first signs and symptoms. Two days later, the boy developed fever, myalgia, headache, abdominal pain and was vomiting; physical examination showed multiple cervical adenopathies but no rash. He was treated with doxycycline (200 mg/day) for 7 days with progressive resolution of clinical signs. Rickettsial infection was confirmed by immunofluorescence assay with serological seroconversion in two consecutive samples.Rickettsia conoriiorRickettsia massiliaewere the possible causal agents since they are theRickettsiaspp found in theRhipicephalus sanguineusdog tick in Portugal.
The dilemma of evaluating a continuous murmur in a patient of aneurysm of sinus of Valsalva and coronary cameral fistula presenting with supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Chugh Yashasvi , Chugh Sanjay , Chugh Sunita
Published: January 2015

A 39-year-old hypothyroid woman on thyroxine replacement therapy presented with an unresolving episode of palpitations (narrow-complex tachycardia). Clinical examination, after reversion to normal sinus rhythm revealed a precordial continuous murmur. Initial transthoracic echocardiogram showed an unruptured aneurysm of left sinus of Valsalva (LSOV), however, because a continuous murmur could not be explained by this condition, a repeat colour Doppler study was made, revealing a communicating tract from the left main coronary artery (LMCA) and terminating in the right atrium (RA). A transesophageal echocardiogram revealed an aneurysmal LMCA and LSOV, with similar colour Doppler findings. A further CT scan and coronary angiogram confirmed a coronary cameral fistula opening into RA. In conclusion, the relevance of a diligent clinical examination and imaging after conversion to normal sinus rhythm in picking up such anomalies cannot be over-emphasised, as previous routine echocardiograms on the same patient had been reported as normal.
Follicular cell dendritic sarcoma of cervical nodes in a patient with significant WTC exposure
Authors: Shemen Larry , Kaplan Barry , Sussman Louis
Published: January 2015

A patient who worked at the World Trade Center (WTC) site presented with right cervical lymphadenopathy. He underwent right neck dissection. The final pathology showed follicular dendritic cell sarcoma. He was treated with radiation and chemotherapy and remained free of disease initially. He then presented with left cervical lymphadenopathy 2.5 years later and underwent a left neck dissection with similar pathology. A discussion of the disease process and WTC exposure is presented. Clinicians should be cognisant of this disease process and the latency between WTC exposure and the onset of sarcomas.
Air Duster abuse causing rapid airway compromise
Authors: Winston Amanda , Kanzy Abed , Bachuwa Ghassan
Published: January 2015

Inhalant abuse is potentially life-threatening and has resulted in many complications such as central nervous system depression, cardiac dysrhythmia and hypoxia. Inhalant abuse causing angioedema is rarely reported in the medical literature. In this report we present a case of rapidly progressive airway compromise following recreational huffing. Our patient required intubation and intensive care unit admission with complete recovery after 5 days. The aetiology of airway compromise is postulated to be due to commonly reported frost bite injury and rarely reported angioedema. To the best of our knowledge this the second case reporting angioedema secondary to huffing Air Duster.
Evaluating recovery following hip fracture: a qualitative interview study of what is important to patients
Authors: Griffiths Frances , Mason Victoria , Boardman Felicity , Dennick Katherine , Haywood Kirstie , Achten Juul , Parsons Nicholas , Griffin Xavier , Costa Matthew
Published: January 2015

Objective

To explore what patients consider important when evaluating their recovery from hip fracture and to consider how these priorities could be used in the evaluation of the quality of hip fracture services.

Design

Semistructured interviews exploring the experience of recovery from hip fracture at two time points—4 weeks and 4 months postoperative hip fixation. Two approaches to analysis: thematic analysis of data specifically related to recovery from hip fracture; summarising the participant's experience overall.

Participants

31 participants were recruited, of whom 20 were women and 12 were cognitively impaired. Mean age was 81.5 years. Interviews were provided by 19 patients, 14 carers and 8 patient/carer dyad; 10 participants were interviewed twice.

Setting

Single major trauma centre in the West Midlands of the UK.

Results

Stable mobility (without falls or fear of falls) for valued activities was considered most important by participants who had some prefracture mobility and were able to articulate what they valued during recovery. Mobility was important for managing personal care, for day-to-day activities such as shopping and gardening, and for maintenance of mental well-being. Some participants used assistive mobility devices or adapted to their limitations. Others maintained their previous limited function through increased care provision. Many participants were unable to articulate what they valued as hip fracture was perceived as part of their decline with age. The fracture and problems from other health conditions were an inseparable part of one health experience.

Conclusions

Prefracture mobility, adaptations to reduced mobility before or after fracture, and whether or not patients perceive themselves to be declining with age influence what patients consider important during recovery from hip fracture. No single patient-reported outcome measure could evaluate quality of care for all patients following hip fracture. General health-related quality of life tools may provide useful information within clinical trials.
Low health literacy and cancer screening among Chinese Americans in California: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Sentell Tetine L , Tsoh Janice Y , Davis Terry , Davis James , Braun Kathryn L
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Asian Americans. Chinese Americans comprise the largest Asian American ethnic group. Low health literacy (LHL) is associated with lower cancer screening rates, but this association has not been studied in Chinese Americans. We examined the relationship between LHL and meeting US Preventive Service Task Force (USPSTF) guidelines for cervical, colorectal and breast cancer screening among Chinese Americans.

Design

Observational study of Chinese respondents in the 2007 California Health Interview Survey, a population-based survey. Interview languages included English, Cantonese and Mandarin.

Setting

California, USA

Participants

Chinese respondents in age/gender groupings appropriate for USPSTF cancer screening guidelines (cervical: women ages 21–65, n=632;colorectal: men or women ages 50–75, n=488; andbreast: women ages 50–74, n=326).

Outcomes

Relationships were tested using multivariable logistic regression models controlling for healthcare access and demographic factors, including limited English proficiency (LEP). The combined effects of having both LHL and LEP were specifically examined. LHL was measured by 2-items on perceived ease-of-use of written medical materials. All study variables were self-reported.

Results

Cancer screening percentages among Chinese Americans were 77.8% for cervical, 50.9% for colorectal (47.9% for women and 54.2% for men), and 85.5% for breast. LHL was associated with lower odds of meeting breast cancer screening guidelines (OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.82). Respondents with both LHL and LEP were significantly less likely to have up-to-date colorectal (OR 0.49; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.97) and breast cancer screening (OR 0.21; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.54) than those with neither health communication barrier. In all multivariable models, having seen a physician in the past year was a significant predictor of an up-to-date screening.

Conclusions

In Chinese Americans, LHL and LEP were negatively associated with up-to-date breast and colorectal cancer screening, independent of a recent physician visit. Efforts to promote cancer screening among Chinese Americans should consider and address LHL, LEP and physician access barriers.
The effect of simvastatin on inflammatory cytokines in community-acquired pneumonia: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Viasus Diego , Garcia-Vidal Carolina , Simonetti Antonella F , Dorca Jordi , Llopis Ferran , Mestre Mariona , Morandeira-Rego Francisco , Carratalà Jordi
Published: January 2015

Objectives

It has been suggested that statins have an effect on the modulation of the cytokine cascade and on the outcome of patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The aim of this prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was to determine whether statin therapy given to hospitalised patients with CAP improves clinical outcomes and reduces the concentration of inflammatory cytokines.

Setting

A tertiary teaching hospital in Barcelona, Spain.

Participants

Thirty-four patients were randomly assigned and included in an intention-to-treat analysis (19 to the simvastatin group and 15 to the placebo group).

Intervention

Patients were randomly assigned to receive 20 mg of simvastatin or placebo administered in the first 24 h of hospital admission and once daily thereafter for 4 days.

Outcome

Primary end point was the time from hospital admission to clinical stability. The secondary end points were serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines and partial pressure of arterial oxygen/fractional inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) at 48 h after treatment administration.

Results

The trial was stopped because enrolment was much slower than originally anticipated. The baseline characteristics of the patients and cytokine concentrations at the time of enrolment were similar in the two groups. No significant differences in the time from hospital admission to clinical stability were found between study groups (median 3 days, IQR 2–5 vs 3 days, IQR 2–5; p=0.47). No significant differences in PaO2/FiO2(p=0.37), C reactive protein (p=0.23), tumour necrosis factor-α (p=0.58), interleukin 6 (IL-6; p=0.64), and IL-10 (p=0.61) levels at 48 h of hospitalisation were found between simvastatin and placebo groups. Similarly, transaminase and total creatine kinase levels were similar between study groups at 48 h of hospitalisation (p=0.19, 0.08 and 0.53, respectively).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the use of simvastatin, 20 mg once daily for 4 days, since hospital admission did not reduce the time to clinical stability and the levels of inflammatory cytokines in hospitalised patients with CAP.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN91327214.
Protocol of a Thyroid Cancer Longitudinal Study (T-CALOS): a prospective, clinical and epidemiological study in Korea
Authors: Lee Kyu Eun , Park Young Joo , Cho Belong , Hwang Yunji , Choi June Young , Kim Su-jin , Choi Hoonsung , Choi Ho-Chun , An Ah Reum , Park Do Joon , Park Sue K , Youn Yeo-Kyu
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Thyroid cancer incidence in Korea is the highest in the world and has recently increased steeply. However, factors contributing to this sudden increase have not been fully elucidated, and few studies have explored the postoperative prognosis. The Thyroid Cancer Longitudinal Study (T-CALOS) was initiated with three aims: (1) to identify factors predicting quality of life, recurrence, and incidence of other diseases after thyroid cancer treatments; (2) to investigate environmental exposure to radiation, toxicants and molecular factors in relation to tumour aggressiveness; and (3) to evaluate gene–environment interactions that increase thyroid cancer in comparison with healthy participants from a pool of nationwide population-based healthy examinees.

Methods and analysis

T-CALOS enrols patients with incident thyroid cancer from three general hospitals, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital and National Medical Center, Korea. The study is an ongoing project expecting to investigate 5000 patients with thyroid cancer up until 2017. Healthy examinees with a normal thyroid confirmed by sonography have been enrolled at the Healthy Examination Center at Seoul National University Hospital. We are also performing individual matching using two nationwide databases that are open to the public. Follow-up information is obtained at patients’ clinical visits and by linkage to the national database. For statistical analysis, we will use conditional logistic regression models and a Cox proportional hazard regression model. A number of stratifications and sensitivity analyses will be performed to confirm the results.

Ethics and dissemination

Based on a large sample size, a prospective study design, comprehensive data collection and biobank, T-CALOS has been independently peer-reviewed and approved by the three hospitals and two funding sources (National Research Foundation of Korea and Korean Foundation for Cancer Research). The results of T-CALOS will be published according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) criteria.
Innovations in using virtual reality to study how children cross streets in traffic: evidence for evasive action skills
Authors: Morrongiello Barbara A , Corbett Michael , Milanovic Melissa , Pyne Sarah , Vierich Robin
Published: January 2015

Purpose

Children in middle childhood are at an increased risk for injury in pedestrian environments. This study examined whether they are capable of showing evasive action (ie, adjusting crossing speed) to avoid injury when crossing streets.

Methods

The study used a fully immersive virtual reality (VR) system interfaced with a three-dimensional movement measurement system so that the actual crossing behaviour of 7–10-year-old children under different traffic conditions could be precisely measured. Relating outcomes to that which would have been obtained based on using the approach of estimating walking speed and assuming a constant speed provided insights into the realised benefits of the current movement monitoring VR system.

Results

Controlling for age and sex, children showed evasive action, crossing more quickly as traffic conditions became more risky. Using an average and assuming a constant walking speed underestimated actual walking speed, failing to capture evasive action and leading to overestimation of children being hit compared with the actual incidence of hits.

Conclusions

VR technology is a valuable tool for assessing child pedestrian behaviour. However, systems need to allow the child to cross the street so their level of pedestrian skill is appropriately measured. The current findings provide the first evidence that children are capable of implementing evasive action in reaction to risky traffic conditions.
Bacterial cystitis in four female guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) resembling necrotising bacterial cystitis
Authors: Schuhmann Britta , Kück Gabriele , Cope Iain
Published: January 2015

Four cases of bacterial cystitis in female guinea pigs are described. The diagnosis was based on urinary examination, including bacterial cultures with sensitivity testing, and ultrasonographic examination. Different bacteria were isolated, with the most common being Escherichia coli, often having multiple antibiotic resistances. All animals were treated with antibiotics following sensitivity testing, analgesics and bladder flushing. Although the clinical and general condition of the animals improved, all guinea pigs had repeated acute relapses of the condition. In all cases, the urine contained coagulated blood. During later episodes, it also contained tissue debris. The ultrasonographic examination showed severe exfoliation of the bladder wall and was considered to be a type of necrotising cystitis. Two animals also developed suspected encrusting cystitis classified by a hyperechogenic covering on parts of the bladder wall. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report of these unique forms of cystitis in guinea pigs.
Ecological advantage of leaf heteroblasty in Costus pulverulentus (Costaceae)
Authors: Guzmán Q. J. Antonio
Published: January 2015

Leaf heteroblasty is a plant phenomenon related to leaf development that describes substantial differences between temporally separated plant stages. This study explores the ecological advantage of leaf heteroblasty in the herb Costus pulverulentus C.Presl and analyzes its possible adaptive value. Heteroblasty was studied using leaf morphology analysis and characterizations of leaf area, specific leaf area (SLA), and leaf divergence angles along the crown. A light capture efficiency index (STAR) was also used by simulating plants with only top- or basal-leaf forms to test its adaptive value. Morphological analysis indicated that C. pulverulentus develop two leaf forms: basal leaves with an obovate form, and top leaves with an oblanceolate form. Mid-crown leaves showed a reduced SLA and angles of divergence, and an increased area compared with top and lower leaves, which may indicate greater space utilization for light acquisition. Plants with top-leaf forms showed greater STAR than plants with basal-leaf forms, likely due to lower self-shading and lower crown density produced by leaf arrangements. Results of this study suggests that changes in leaf size and morphology occur in later stages of plant development as an adaptation to reduce self-shading and crown density which promotes an adaptive advantage by increasing the STAR.
An algorithm to find critical execution paths of software based on complex network
Authors: Huang Guoyan , Zhang Bing , Ren Rong , Ren Jiadong
Published: January 2015

The critical execution paths play an important role in software system in terms of reducing the numbers of test date, detecting the vulnerabilities of software structure and analyzing software reliability. However, there are no efficient methods to discover them so far. Thus in this paper, a complex network-based software algorithm is put forward to find critical execution paths (FCEP) in software execution network. First, by analyzing the number of sources and sinks in FCEP, software execution network is divided into AOE subgraphs, and meanwhile, a Software Execution Network Serialization (SENS) approach is designed to generate execution path set in each AOE subgraph, which not only reduces ring structure's influence on path generation, but also guarantees the nodes' integrity in network. Second, according to a novel path similarity metric, similarity matrix is created to calculate the similarity among sets of path sequences. Third, an efficient method is taken to cluster paths through similarity matrices, and the maximum-length path in each cluster is extracted as the critical execution path. At last, a set of critical execution paths is derived. The experimental results show that the FCEP algorithm is efficient in mining critical execution path under software complex network.
TaDb: A time-aware diffusion-based recommender algorithm
Authors: Li Wen-Jun , Xu Yuan-Yuan , Dong Qiang , Zhou Jun-Lin , Fu Yan
Published: January 2015

Traditional recommender algorithms usually employ the early and recent records indiscriminately, which overlooks the change of user interests over time. In this paper, we show that the interests of a user remain stable in a short-term interval and drift during a long-term period. Based on this observation, we propose a time-aware diffusion-based (TaDb) recommender algorithm, which assigns different temporal weights to the leading links existing before the target user's collection and the following links appearing after that in the diffusion process. Experiments on four real datasets, Netflix, MovieLens, FriendFeed and Delicious show that TaDb algorithm significantly improves the prediction accuracy compared with the algorithms not considering temporal effects.
Communication complexity and the reality of the wave function
Authors: Montina Alberto
Published: January 2015

In this review, we discuss a relation between quantum communication complexity and a long-standing debate in quantum foundation concerning the interpretation of the quantum state. Is the quantum state a physical element of reality as originally interpreted by Schrödinger? Or is it an abstract mathematical object containing statistical information about the outcome of measurements as interpreted by Born? Although these questions sound philosophical and pointless, they can be made precise in the framework of what we call classical theories of quantum processes, which are a reword of quantum phenomena in the language of classical probability theory. In 2012, Pusey, Barrett and Rudolph (PBR) proved, under an assumption of preparation independence, a theorem supporting the original interpretation of Schrödinger in the classical framework. The PBR theorem has attracted considerable interest revitalizing the debate and motivating other proofs with alternative hypotheses. Recently, we showed that these questions are related to a practical problem in quantum communication complexity, namely, quantifying the minimal amount of classical communication required in the classical simulation of a two-party quantum communication process. In particular, we argued that the statement of the PBR theorem can be proved if the classical communication cost of simulating the communication of n qubits grows more than exponentially in n. Our argument is based on an assumption that we call probability equipartition property. This property is somehow weaker than the preparation independence property used in the PBR theorem, as the former can be justified by the latter and the asymptotic equipartition property of independent stochastic sources. The probability equipartition property is a general and natural hypothesis that can be assumed even if the preparation independence hypothesis is dropped. In this review, we further develop our argument into the form of a theorem.
Isotopic yield in alpha accompanied ternary fission of 252Cf
Authors: Santhosh K. P. , Krishnan Sreejith , Priyanka B.
Published: January 2015

The cold ternary fission of 252 Cf with 4 He as light charged particle (LCP) is studied with fragments in the equatorial and collinear configuration, taking the interacting barrier as the sum of the Coulomb and Proximity potential. The favorable fragment combinations are obtained from the cold valley plot and by calculating the yield for charge-minimized fragments. In both equatorial and collinear configurations, the highest yield is obtained for the fragment combination 116 Pd + 4 He + 132 Sn , which possess doubly magic nuclei 132 Sn (N = 82, Z = 50). The presence of doubly or near doubly magic nuclei (132 Sn , 130 Sn etc.) and higher Q value plays an important role in the alpha accompanied cold ternary fission of 252 Cf . The comparison of the relative yield for equatorial configuration with that of collinear configuration, points to the fact that equatorial configuration is the preferred configuration for the LCP (4 He ) accompanied ternary fission in 252 Cf isotope. The yields obtained for the alpha accompanied cold ternary fission of 252 Cf in equatorial and collinear configuration are compared with the experimental data. The emission probability of long range alpha (LRA) particle from 252 Cf isotope is predicted using our formalism and is found to be in agreement with experimental value.