bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fault diagnosis approach for roller bearing based on improved intrinsic timescale decomposition de-noising and kriging-variable predictive model-based class discriminate
Authors: Yang Yu , Pan Haiyang , Ma Li , Cheng Junsheng
Published: July 2014

The measured vibration signal of roller bearings has noise signals, which will largely influence the accuracy of roller bearing fault diagnosis. This paper puts forward a vibration signal de-noising method based upon improved intrinsic timescale decomposition (ITD); fuzzy entropy is then extracted as the fault feature of the roller bearing. Essentially the fault diagnosis of roller bearings is a process of pattern recognition. Targeting the limitation of existing pattern recognition methods, a new pattern recognition method – variable predictive model-based class discriminate (VPMCD) – is introduced into roller bearing fault identification. In the original VPMCD classifier, however, only the regression model could be used to predict, which will reduce the prediction’s accuracy when the relation between features is complicated. Aimed at this defect, a kriging-variable predictive model-based class discriminate (KVPMCD) pattern recognition method is presented in this paper. The kriging model is composed of a regression model and a correlation model, of which the correlation model is a local deviation that is created on the basis of a global model, to make up for the shortcomings of the simple regression model in the original VPMCD. Therefore, a fault diagnosis approach for roller bearing based on improved ITD de-nosing and KVPMCD is proposed in this paper. The analysis results from experimental signals with normal and defective roller bearings indicate that the proposed fault diagnosis approach can accurately and effectively distinguish the status of roller bearings with or without fault and fault patterns.
A vision-based vibration sensing and active control for a piezoelectric flexible cantilever plate
Authors: Qiu Zhi-cheng , Zhang Xiang-tong , Zhang Xian-min , Han Jian-da
Published: July 2014

A visual sensor is used to measure the vibration of a piezoelectric flexible cantilever plate. To decrease the image processing time and satisfy the requirement of real-time application, the searching range is limited by selecting region of interest images and using a tracking technique. After image processing, including median filter, image segmentation for object recognition, least squares technique, the vibrations of bending and torsional modes for flexible plate can be obtained. The visual measured signals are used as feedback to suppress the excited vibrations. The conventional proportional plus derivative (PD) control and finite-time control algorithms are designed and implemented. The experiments are conducted. The decoupling of measurement of the bending and torsional vibrations is realized by the visual sensor accompany with applying the image processing methods. Experimental results demonstrate that the designed control algorithm can suppress the low-frequency vibration effectively. Furthermore, the finite-time controller can damp out the small amplitude vibration much better than that of the PD control.
Shape memory alloy actuated structural control with discrete time sliding mode control using multirate output feedback
Authors: Dhanalakshmi K , Umapathy M , Ezhilarasi D
Published: July 2014

This paper presents the design and experimental evaluation of discrete time sliding mode controller using multirate output feedback to minimize structural vibration of a cantilever beam using shape memory alloy wires as control actuators and piezoceramics as sensor and disturbance actuator. Linear dynamic models of the smart cantilever beam are obtained using online recursive least square parameter estimation. A digital control system that consists of Simulink™ modeling software and dSPACE DS1104 controller board is used for identification and control. The effectiveness of the controller is shown through simulation and experimentation by exciting the structure at resonance.
Noise source identification and localization of mechanical systems based on an enhanced independent component analysis
Authors: Cheng Wei , Zhang Zhousuo , Zhu Guanwen , He Zhengjia
Published: July 2014

In this paper, an enhanced independent component analysis (EICA) is comparatively studied with the traditional fast independent component analysis algorithm, and a noise source identification and localization method based on the EICA and spectral correlation analysis is proposed. The EICA selects the optimal separations using clustering analysis from multiple source separations, and the robustness and effectiveness of the EICA are validated by a numerical case study. The proposed noise source identification and localization method firstly separates the mixed noise signals measured outside of a mechanical system, which guarantees an easy and complete measure of all the source information and an accurate source separation. Secondly, it evaluates the separating performances by time and frequency feature analysis and waveform correlation analysis. Finally, it adaptively identifies and localizes the noise sources by spectral correlation analysis and priori information of the mechanical system. The effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by experimental studies on a test-bed, and this study can be beneficial for vibration and noise monitoring and the control of mechanical systems.
A new method of gear fault diagnosis in strong noise based on multi-sensor information fusion
Authors: Cheng Gang , Chen Xi-hui , Shan Xian-lei , Liu Hou-guang , Zhou Chang-fei
Published: July 2014

In the work process of mining machinery gears, vibration signals are not only influenced by friction, nonlinear stiffness and non-stationary load, but also influenced by strong noise. How to extract the fault feature information effectively, identify the fault status accurately and eliminate the uncertainty in the identification process is the key to evaluate the fault status in strong noise. A new gear fault diagnosis method in strong noise is proposed based on multi-sensor information fusion, which combines wavelet correlation feature scale entropy (WCFSE), self-organizing feature map (SOM) neural network and Dempster-Shafer (D-S) evidence theory algorithm. The noise is reduced by the way of a wavelet transform correlation filter, to calculate the Shannon entropy of denoised wavelet coefficients, which can reflect the vibration signal complexity. The WCFSE of standard training samples defined as the input vectors of an SOM neural network is used to train the neural network, and the gear status clusters in a competitive layer. In order to improve the accuracy and completeness in the identification process, multi-sensor fusion technology is introduced to establish the recognition framework of D-S evidence theory and the basic belief function allocation method based on the recognition rate of statistical SOM neural network. Each sensor can provide sub-evidence, and the gear fault diagnosis is analyzed according to the combination rules and basic belief function. The experimental results show that the proposed gear diagnosis method in strong noise can identify the gear fault accurately, eliminate the identified uncertainty and imperfection with a single sensor. The recognition rates of two-sensor fusion beyond 80%, and the recognition rates of three-sensor fusion beyond 88%, especially the status with tooth loss beyond 95%. The fault recognition rates have been greatly improved compared with a single sensor, so this is an effective method of gear fault diagnosis in strong noise.
Does Change on the MOLEST and RAPE Scales Predict Sexual Recidivism?
Authors: Nunes Kevin L. , Pettersen Cathrine , Hermann Chantal A. , Looman Jan , Spape Jessica
Published: July 2014

The purpose of the current study was to examine whether the MOLEST and RAPE scales and change on these measures predicted sexual recidivism in a sample of 146 adult male sexual offenders who participated in a high-intensity treatment program while incarcerated. The majority of subjects had functional scores on the MOLEST and RAPE scales prior to treatment. Of those who had dysfunctional pre-treatment scores, the majority made significant gains. However, the MOLEST and RAPE scales did not significantly predict sexual recidivism. This was the case for pre-treatment scores, post-treatment scores, and change scores. Our findings are generally not consistent with the view that these measures assess dynamic risk factors for sexual recidivism. However, this is the first published study to examine the predictive validity of these scales and more rigorous research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
A Reply to “A Replication of “Counting Chickens When They Hatch” (Economic Journal 2012)”
Authors: Bazzi Samuel , Bhavnani Rikhil
Published: July 2014

The regressions in Clemens et al. (2012) are fully replicable with open-access data and code. Roodman (2015) alters the regression specifications in that paper by adding twice-lagged aid, after which he cannot reject the null hypothesis of a zero effect of aid on growth. We show, with Roodman’s data and code, that his altered specifications have very low power to reject the null–roughly 0.1 to 0.2. In other words, there is an 80-90% chance that Roodman’s altered regressions fail to reject the null by construction. This renders the exercise uninformative about the robustness of the findings in Clemens et al. (2012) or, more generally, about the effect of aid on growth.
Fatherhood in the Context of Political Violence
Authors: Strier Roni
Published: July 2014

Grounded on a documentary film-based qualitative research methodology, the article undertakes a social constructivist theoretical analysis of the story of a group of Argentinean fathers whose children were victims of enforced disappearance. It focuses specifically on the impact of the massive use of enforced disappearance on fathers by the Military government in Argentina between 1976 and 1983. The premeditated use of this tactic gave birth to a protest movement named “Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo,” established by a group of mothers whose children were abducted. Whereas the mothers’ role in the context of this historical period of political violence was extensively documented, the question of the fathers’ role remains unclear. Based on “Padres de la Plaza: 10 Recorridos Posibles” by director Joaquin Daglio, a documentary film that portrayed the stories of ten fathers whose children were abducted, the article examines the experience of fatherhood in the context of political violence, the impact of enforced disappearance on these fathers, the role of the fathers in the Mothers’ protest movement, and the construction of fatherhood under these particular historical and personal circumstances. The article shows how fatherhood is experienced and transformed in the contexts of political violence, specifically in contexts of the institutionalized, state-sponsored violation of human and civil rights.
Encrypted Landscapes, Nation-States
Authors: King Tanya J.
Published: July 2014

As visitors perambulate around the Australian National Botanic Gardens, in Canberra, relationships among citizens, environments, and the nation-state are enacted: The central is emphasized over the peripheral, the Canberran space is depicted as a literal miniature model of the wider nation, science is privileged in the design of that representation, and “nature” is appreciated as isolatable from humans but controllable by them. As with other architectural aspects of Canberra, assumptions about the relative relationships among elements of the state are reflected in the spatial positioning and delineation of the items and embodied in those who move in and around them.
Degradation mechanism of automatic transmission fluid by water as a contaminant
Authors: Fatima Nowshir , Holmgren Allan , Marklund Pär , Minami Ichiro , Larsson Roland
Published: July 2014

The degradation mechanism of water-contaminated automatic transmission fluids (ATF) was experimentally investigated. Water-contaminated ATF was tribotested in a full-scale wet clutch test rig to monitor the friction durability during clutch aging, and was also statically aged in oven to evaluate the interaction of ATF with water. The bulk properties and chemical nature of the ATF were analyzed using viscosity measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. It was shown that presence of water in the ATF can increase the mean friction coefficient over a short time period, though in the long-term perspective there is a higher loss of mean friction. Phase separation of the water-in-oil emulsion by centrifugation at 20,000 r/min made it possible to examine the water phase using infrared spectroscopy. The spectroscopic analysis revealed the hydrophilic nature of certain ATF constituents, although the impact of water on the bulk properties like lubricant viscosity and thermal stability was insignificant. The analysis of the tribotests showed that the friction increase for water contamination was a short-term effect and likely due to the interaction between polar surface active additives and water. Even though no significant change has been found for thermal degradation or in bulk properties of the lubricant, the initially changed action of the water soluble additives and generation of high friction resulted in a total deterioration of the clutch performance during long-term use.
Social constructions of the male contraception pill: When are we going to break the vicious circle?
Authors: Dismore Lorelle , Van Wersch Anna , Swainston Katherine
Published: July 2014

Social constructions of men towards the availability of a male hormonal contraceptive, the ‘male pill’, were explored. A qualitative approach applying semi-structured interviews and scenarios with 22 men (mean age 35 years) from the North East of England revealed two core constructs and six sub-constructs using a Thematic-Construct Analysis in line with the method of Toerien and Wilkinson and Clarke and Kitzinger. Verbal accounts were inductively used to balance the deductively created two core constructs ‘Constructing the male pill norm: dominant system of sensemaking’ and ‘ Living by the male pill norm’ to represent a normative framework within a changing ideology of shared responsibility in contraceptive choice. Constructing the male pill norm was divided into two sub-constructs: ‘Male pill: we are going to join the women and become responsible – too!’ and ‘Male pill: you look so girly – what are they going to think of me?’ The ‘ Living by the male pill norm’ was further divided into four sub-constructs ‘Male pill – thank you for giving me promises not to have to become a dad as yet!’; ‘Male pill: thank you for the idea of fun – sorry about my morals!’; ‘Male pill: in stable relations – yes, I would have you now – sorry, I am too late!’ and ‘Male pill, we love you – but we are too anxious – we are not ready as yet!’ From this male discourse, it is clear that discussions over the male pill follow the line of a vicious circle. In order to establish long-term side effects, Phase IV studies are necessary, and these cannot commence without the male hormonal contraception being a marketable product. So, unless this circle gets broken by some brave men, the male pill will remain a virtual rotating idea for a long time.
The value of nurses’ tailored communication when discussing medicines: Exploring the relationship between satisfaction, beliefs and adherence
Authors: Linn Annemiek J , van Weert Julia CM , van Dijk Liset , Horne Rob , Smit Edith G
Published: July 2014

Numerous studies of various populations and settings link patient–provider communication or beliefs to medication adherence. A better understanding of this interplay may help to improve patient-centred communication. To predict adherence, this study used the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire and indications of the quality of the nurse’s communication in terms of patient satisfaction. Patient satisfaction with the information provided and the degree to which the information was tailored to them were related to adherence via the patient’s beliefs. This study supports the argument that tailoring is an effective strategy for improving adherence via beliefs and can contribute to medical education and to adherence interventions.
The Measure of Sickle Cell Stigma: Initial findings from the Improving Patient Outcomes through Respect and Trust study
Authors: Bediako Shawn M , Lanzkron Sophie , Diener-West Marie , Onojobi Gladys , Beach Mary C , Haywood Carlton
Published: July 2014

Research about the influence of stigma on health outcomes in sickle cell disease is limited. We administered the recently developed Measure of Sickle Cell Stigma to 262 patients in the United States. The Measure of Sickle Cell Stigma yielded very good internal consistency and four interpretable factors. Significant associations among stigma, pain-related healthcare utilization, and perceived disease severity were observed for three of the four stigma factors ( F range = 2.78–5.44). The Measure of Sickle Cell Stigma appears to be a useful tool for measuring disease-specific stigma among adults living with sickle cell disease, and further assessment of its clinical utility is warranted.
Bedtime procrastination: A self-regulation perspective on sleep insufficiency in the general population
Authors: Kroese Floor M , Evers Catharine , Adriaanse Marieke A , de Ridder Denise TD
Published: July 2014

Getting insufficient sleep has serious consequences in terms of mental and physical health. The current study is the first to approach insufficient sleep from a self-regulation perspective by investigating the phenomenon of bedtime procrastination: going to bed later than intended, without having external reasons for doing so. Data from a representative sample of Dutch adults ( N = 2431) revealed that a large proportion of the general population experiences getting insufficient sleep and regularly goes to bed later than they would like to. Most importantly, a relationship between self-regulation and experienced insufficient sleep was found, which was mediated by bedtime procrastination.
Gossip as indirect mockery in friendly conversation: The social functions of ‘sharing a laugh’ at third parties
Authors: Ferreira A. Virginia Acuña
Published: July 2014

This article focuses on the analysis of gossip that is done in a playful key, including laughter as a salient feature, drawing on extracts taken from two naturally occurring conversations among Galician female undergraduate students. The analysis indicates that gossip emerges as a form of indirect mockery in the data, which are commonly based on dramatized reported speech of the ‘victim’, including parodic stylization devices that are orientated to elicit laughter by making fun or through ridicule. The evaluation component also reveals important differences in relation to serious gossip, as it is not necessarily negative and is not always explicitly established or developed. For this reason, this component can be ambiguous in some cases. From a functional perspective, the article emphasizes that sociability and entertainment are not the only functions that playful and humorous gossip can play; at a fundamental level, this discourse practice has other benefits for the participants: as a way of constructing group identity and getting group comfort for a feeling of envy; of increasing self-esteem from the problems of another party; and of degrading other people’s success. The common element behind these underlying functions is a comparative competition of the gossipers with the person who is the subject of their talk. Thus, gossip as mockery is not free of maliciousness and competitiveness.
The role of proximity in online popularizations: The case of TED talks
Authors: Scotto di Carlo Giuseppina
Published: July 2014

This article investigates some main characteristics of TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) talks, a new popularizing genre. In particular, it examines the process that recontextualizes scientific speeches into TED talks presented by their own authors, using several discursive conventions to negotiate their role as experts and to establish a closer relationship with their audience. Through a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the 2012 TED talks, the article will draw upon Hyland’s concept of ‘proximity’, and the five elements that he takes into account when illustrating proximity in popularizing texts: organization, argument structure, credibility, stance and reader engagement. It will be observed that the linguistic techniques used to enhance comprehensibility, the use of evaluative and emotive adjectives, and the direct involvement of the audience through the use of inclusive pronouns help the speaker breach the expert/audience barrier, establishing an ‘alignment’. Rather than focusing on proximity of membership, these talks emphasize proximity of commitment, by concentrating not on the speakers’ identity and reputation, but rather on how they are personally involved in the topic of the speech. These techniques reveal TED’s idea that science should be ideas to be discussed rather than information to be passively received.
‘Good’ and ‘bad’ deaths: Narratives and professional identities in interviews with hospice managers
Authors: Semino Elena , Demjén Zsófia , Koller Veronika
Published: July 2014

This article explores the formal and functional characteristics of narratives of ‘good’ and ‘bad’ deaths as they were told by 13 UK-based hospice managers in the course of semi-structured interviews. The interviewees’ responses include a variety of remarkably consistent ‘narratives of successful/frustrated intervention’, which exhibit distinctive formal characteristics in terms of the starting point and core of the action, the choice of personal pronouns and metaphors, and the ways in which positive and negative evaluation is expressed. In functional terms, the hospice managers’ narratives play an important role in representing and constructing their professional views, challenges and identities. Overall, the narratives argue for the role of hospices and professional hospice staff in facilitating a ‘good’ death, and, by presenting a relatively unified view, may potentially preclude alternative perspectives.
Mexico and social provision by the federal government and the federal district: Obstacles and openings to a Social Protection Floor
Authors: Luccisano Lucy , Macdonald Laura
Published: July 2014

This article examines the lessons that can be drawn from social protection programs in Mexico at both the national and sub-national scales for the Social Protection Floor (SPF) initiative for the implementation of the Global Social Floor proposal in Mexico. Mexico’s federal anti-poverty program, Progresa/Oportunidades, was a pioneer in the application of a social investment paradigm to the provision of social benefits to the extreme poor, and the targeting of benefits. At the same time, the left-leaning Partido de la Revolución Democrática (PRD) governments of the Federal District have introduced an ambitious new series of social programs at the municipal scale. PRD governments have directly criticized the targeting and surveillance involved in the Oportunidades program. Instead, the PRD has advocated more universalistic approaches to social policy, based on principles of social rights. This article examines the areas of congruence and dissonance between these Mexican innovations in social policy and the SPF initiative.
The impact of illuminance and colour temperature on viewing fine art paintings under LED lighting
Authors: Zhai QY , Luo MR , Liu XY
Published: July 2014

The aims of this study were to investigate suitable LED lighting conditions for viewing fine art paintings in a museum environment and to test Kruithof's rule that defines pleasant lighting in terms of correlated colour temperature (CCT) and illuminance. The experiment was conducted in a room designed to simulate the exhibition of real paintings in museums. Twenty-four observers of different gender and educational background participated to evaluate oil and gouache paintings under different lighting conditions. Each painting was assessed via 14 word pairs using the categorical judgment method. The results showed that illuminance had a larger impact than CCT on visual perception, and three factors dominate visual perceptions: Comfort, Vividness and Definition. The present results only partially agreed with Kruithof's rule. A comfort zone of illuminance and CCT for paintings in museums has been developed.
Lamp spectrum and spatial brightness at photopic levels: Investigating prediction using S/P ratio and gamut area
Authors: Fotios S , Atli D , Cheal C , Hara N
Published: July 2014

An experiment was carried out to investigate spatial brightness at photopic levels under lighting of different spectral power distributions. One aim was to replicate the experiment reported in 1990 by Berman et al. demonstrating that light with a higher scotopic / photopic (S/P) ratio would be perceived as brighter. In addition, a third SPD was included to investigate gamut area and two additional procedures were employed to provide concurrent validity of the findings. It was concluded that while lighting of higher S/P ratio was brighter, the S/P ratio alone was insufficient to predict spatial brightness. A metric for the chromatic contribution is also needed, this being provided by gamut area in the current work.
Integrative Exercise and Lifestyle Intervention Increases Leisure-Time Activity in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Casla Soraya , Hojman Pernille , Cubedo Ricardo , Calvo Isabel , Sampedro Javier , Barakat Ruben
Published: July 2014

Background. Physical activity has been demonstrated to increase survival in breast cancer patients, but few breast cancer patients meet the general recommendations for physical activity. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate if a supervised integrated counseling and group-based exercise program could increase leisure-time activity in women with breast cancer. Methods. This pilot project, designed as a single-arm study with pre-post testing, consisted of 24 classes of combined aerobic and strength exercise training as well as classes on dietary and health behavior. A total of 48 women with breast cancer who were undergoing or had recently completed anticancer treatment completed the study. Leisure-time physical activity, grip strength, functional capacity, quality of life (QoL), and depression were assessed at baseline, after intervention, and at the 12-week follow-up after intervention. Results. The breast cancer patients increased their leisure-time physical activity ( P = .004), global strength ( P = .004), functional capacity ( P = .001), and QoL ( P = .009), and their depression score ( P = .004) significantly decreased. These improvements were independent of whether the patients were in ongoing therapy or had completed their treatment. Conclusion. This integrated intervention may produce lifestyle changes in breast cancer patients and survivors using the teachable moment to increase their leisure-time physical activity and, thereby, their QoL.
Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum and Generalized Epilepsy
Authors: Ilik Faik , Bilgilisoy Ugur T.
Published: July 2014

The corpus callosum is the main band of interhemispheric axonal fibers in the human brain. Corpus callosum agenesis has widely varying symptoms, mainly associated with epilepsy, cognitive failure, and different neuropsychiatric disorders. Our case of corpus callosum agenesis includes eyelid myoclonia with absences. In the literature, there is no reported case of this combination. We report this case because it is rare, and relevant for the understanding of interhemispheric communications, based on our electrophysiological findings.
Cortical Brain Connectivity and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Vecchio Fabrizio , Miraglia Francesca , Valeriani Lavinia , Scarpellini Maria Gabriella , Bramanti Placido , Mecarelli Oriano , Rossini Paolo M.
Published: July 2014

The brain has a high level of complexity and needs continuous oxygen supply. So it is clear that any pathological condition, or physiological (aging) change, in the cardiovascular system affects functioning of the central nervous system. We evaluated linear aspects of the relationship between the slowness of cortical rhythms, as revealed by the modulation of a graph connectivity parameter, and congestive heart failure (CHF), as a reflection of neurodegenerative processes. Eyes-closed resting electroencephalographic (EEG) data of 10 patients with CHF were recorded by 19 electrodes positioned according the international 10-20 system. Graph theory function (normalized characteristic path length λ) was applied to the undirected and weighted networks obtained by lagged linear coherence evaluated by eLORETA software, therefore getting rid of volumetric propagation influences. The EEG frequency bands of interest were: delta (2-4 Hz), theta (4-8 Hz), alpha 1 (8-10.5 Hz), alpha 2 (10.5-13 Hz), beta 1 (13-20 Hz), beta 2 (20-30 Hz), and gamma (30-40 Hz). The analysis between B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) values and λ showed positive correlation in delta, associated with a negative correlation in alpha 2 band. Namely, the higher the severity of the disease (as revealed by the BNP vales), the higher the λ in delta, and lower in alpha 2 band. Results suggest that delta and alpha λ indices are good markers of the severity of CHF.
High-Fidelity Cataract Surgery Simulation and Third World Blindness
Authors: Singh Ajay , Strauss Glenn H.
Published: July 2014

The burden of global cataract blindness continues to rise, because the number of surgical ophthalmologists is insufficient, and they are unevenly distributed. There is an urgent need to train surgeons quickly and comprehensively in high-quality, low-cost cataract removal techniques. The authors suggest manual small-incision cataract surgery as a safe alternative to phacoemulsification cataract surgery in the developing world. They discuss the development of a novel, full-immersion, physics-based surgical training simulator as the centerpiece of a scalable, comprehensive training system for manual small-incision cataract surgery.
The Obesities
Authors: Karasu Sylvia R.
Published: July 2014

The study of obesity lends itself to difficulties not only due to our imprecise ability to measure body composition, food consumption, and physical activity but also, even more important, due to complexities involved in defining and conceptualizing obesity. For centuries, obesity has been considered a disease, although researchers and clinicians cannot agree on definitions of “disease” or, if it is one, whether obesity is a disease of metabolism, inflammation, brown fat, chronobiology, the blood-brain barrier, the right brain, or even of infectious origin. The concept of “obesity” as a disease remains controversial to some because not everyone who has excess adipose tissue has any evidence of disease. Obesity, though, has also been considered a sin, a crime against society, an aesthetic crime, a self-inflicted disability, an example of body diversity, a failure in the regulation of energy balance, an appropriate or even inappropriate adaptation to our increasingly obesogenic environment, a genetic disorder, and a psychological/behavioral disorder of overeating involving self-regulation or even addiction. Five major paradigms—medical, sociocultural, evolutionary, environmental, and psychological/behavioral, all with their own subcategorical models—have been identified. All 5 paradigms are required because we are dealing not with “obesity” but with a plurality, the “obesities.”
Fistula first, graft on arterialized vein second
Authors: Galzerano Giuseppe , Giubbolini Michele , Setacci Francesco , de Donato Gianmarco , Sirignano Pasqualino , Messina Gabriele , Cappelli Alessandro , Setacci Carlo
Published: July 2014

Objectives

Arterovenous grafts (AVGs) present a feasible solution for creating a vascular access in patients who are unsuitable for autogenous fistula (AVF). The aim of this study is to assess the prevention rate of vein stenosis, placing a graft on an arterialized vein (GAV) instead of an anastomized AVG in a native vein (GNV).

Methods

This was a cohort study conducted from January 2009 to November 2012. All consecutive patients who underwent AVG in our institution were included. All patients requiring a secondary intervention were also referred to our centre. Patients underwent ultrasound follow up at first and the every month. A Kaplan–Meier method was used; a Log-rank test was used to identify whether significant difference existed between GAV and GNV ( p < 0.05).

Results

Forty-six grafts were placed. Twenty patients had arterialized receiving veins (group A), while 26 patients received an AVG immediately because they lacked autogenous veins suitable for fistula (group B).The average follow-up period was 16.1 months (range 0–41). The group A 41 months-patency rate was 84.3%, while group B was 43.7% ( p = 0.06). Secondary patency was similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

Vein arterialization seems to prevent venous stenosis improving AVG-patency rate. More data are needed; however, the borderline p value encourages new studies.
Investigation on current collection from a silicon quantum-dot p-i-n solar cell by varying dot size and insulating barrier layer thickness
Authors: Bohra Shabbir S , Panchal Ashish K
Published: July 2014

In this article, the photo-current enhancement by inserting an active i-layer comprising bi-layers of silicon quantum dot/barrier in traditional pn-structure has been studied. The analysis of silicon quantum dot solar cell is based on the methodology adopted for InAs/GaAs quantum dot solar cell previously reported, with some assumptions and modifications. In this study, the experimental data for absorption coefficient and reflectance are used. The effect of various barrier layers on current collection such as SiO2 and SiC has been investigated by developing a realistic modeling on MATLAB platform. In this analysis, the effects of silicon quantum dot size, barrier layer thickness, number of bi-layers and silicon content have been analyzed. It has been observed that the enhancement in current in p-i-n-type cell by inserting an i-layer in pn-diode structure for SiO2 barrier layer is of the order of 1 mA/cm2, whereas for SiC barrier layer it ranges from 6.5 to 17.4 mA/cm2 for given dot size, silicon content and number of layers. The maximum achievable cell current of 30.28 mA/cm2 has been observed with SiC barrier.
Innate responses to small interfering RNA pools inhibiting herpes simplex virus infection in astrocytoid and epithelial cells
Authors: Paavilainen Henrik , Romanovskaya Alesia , Nygårdas Michaela , Bamford Dennis H , Poranen Minna M , Hukkanen Veijo
Published: July 2014

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a human pathogen that can cause severe diseases such as encephalitis, keratitis and neonatal herpes. Control of HSV infection may be achieved by using small interfering (si)RNAs. We have designed and enzymatically produced pools of siRNAs targeting HSV. In addition to the target-specific effects, such siRNAs may induce innate immunity responses that may contribute to antiviral effects. HSV has versatile ways of modulating innate immunity, and it remains unclear whether HSV-specific antiviral treatment would benefit from the potential immunostimulatory effects of siRNAs. To address this, cell lines derived from epithelium and nervous system were studied for innate immunity reactions to HSV infection, to siRNA treatment, and to a combination of treatment and infection. In addition, the outcome of HSV infection was quantitated. We show that innate immunity reactions vary drastically between the cell lines. Moreover, our findings indicate only a minimal relation between the antiviral effect and the treatment-induced innate immunity responses. Thus, the antiviral effect is mainly sequence specific and the inhibition of HSV infection is not ascribed to the slight innate immunity induction.
Biologics in rotator cuff surgery
Authors: Schär Michael O , Rodeo Scott A , Zumstein Matthias A
Published: July 2014

Pathologies of the rotator cuff are by far the most common cause of shoulder dysfunction and pain. Even though reconstruction of the rotator cuff results in improved clinical outcome scores, including decreased pain, several studies report high failure rates. Orthopaedic research has therefore focused on biologically augmenting the rotator cuff reconstruction and improving tendon–bone healing of the rotator cuff. This biological augmentation has included the application of different platelet concentrates containing growth factors, mesenchymal stem cells, scaffolds and a combination of the above. The present review provides an overview over the biological augmentation options based upon current evidence.
The Boyd–McLeod procedure for tennis elbow: mid- to long-term results
Authors: Jeavons Richard , Berg Andrew J , Richards Ian , Bayliss Neil
Published: July 2014

Background

Tennis elbow is a common condition that usually responds to conservative measures. In refractory cases, surgical intervention is indicated. A plethora of surgical techniques have been described. We report the mid- to long-term outcomes of the Boyd–McLeod procedure for refractory tennis elbow.

Methods

A retrospective analysis and current review of patients that had undergone the Boyd–McLeod procedure over a 12-year period was undertaken. Demographics, time to discharge, length of follow-up and outcome scores were collected.

Results

Seventy patients underwent surgery. Mean time to discharge was 15.35 weeks, with 88% successful outcomes. Fifty-four patients were available for current follow-up at mean of 5.52 years (range 1.17 years to 11.49 years). Range of motion in all patients was unchanged. There were no revision procedures. Mean (SD) Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 90.85 (13.11), with 75.5% returning a good or excellent score and 24.5% a fair outcome. The mean (SD) Oxford Elbow Score was 44.04 (6.92); mean (SD) pain score was 89.5 (17.58); mean (SD) function score was 95.34 (9.59) and mean (SD) socio-psychological score was 91.50 (17.01). Overall, 83% of patients had an Oxford Elbow Score of 43 or greater, suggesting excellent outcome.

Conclusions

We show that the Boyd–McLeod procedure is an excellent option over both the short- and long-term for refractory tennis elbow.
Long contoured locking plate fixation of traumatic proximal humeral fractures with distal extension
Authors: George Malal Joby J , Mayne Alistair I W , Arouri Faten , Noorani Ali M , Kent Matthew , Smith Matt , Guisasola Inigo , Brownson Peter
Published: July 2014

Background

There is a paucity of data available with respect to outcome on long contoured locking plate fixation for proximal humerus fractures with distal fracture extension.

Methods

Thirty-four patients with traumatic proximal humerus fractures with distal extension underwent fixation with long contoured locking plates. Twenty-five patients (74%) were included in the study: one patient died, two patients had unrelated illnesses resulting in them being unable to complete follow-up assessment and six were lost to follow-up. Patients’ case notes and radiographs were retrospectively reviewed, and patients were contacted to assess functional outcome using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) and Stanmore Percentage of Normal Shoulder Assessment (SPONSA).

Results

Mean follow-up was 27 months (range 11 months to 60 months). Mean pain at final follow-up was 3.6 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.5 to 4.8] with only four patients having residual pain greater than 5 on the VAS scale. Mean DASH score was 41.2 (95% CI = 32.0 to 50.4), mean OSS was 29.1 (95% CI = 24.3 to 33.9) and mean SPONSA was 63.9% (95% CI = 50.8 to 77.2). There was one wound infection. Three patients had non-unions that required bone grafting and revision internal fixation.

Conclusions

We feel long contoured locking plates represent a useful treatment option for complex proximal humerus fractures
Sensitivity and specificity of an abbreviated 13 C‐mixed triglyceride breath test for measurement of pancreatic exocrine function
Authors: Keller Jutta , Meier Viola , Wolfram Kristina U , Rosien Ulrich , Layer Peter
Published: July 2014

Background

A modified 13 C‐mixed triglyceride breath test (13 C ‐MTGT) detects moderate pancreatic exocrine insufficiency noninvasively and reliably, but it requires prolonged breath sampling (6 hours (hr)).

Objective

We aimed to investigate whether 13 C ‐MTGT can be abbreviated, to optimize clinical usability.

Methods

We analyzed the 13 C‐MTGT of 200 consecutive patients, retrospectively. Cumulative 1–5 hr 13 C‐exhalation values were compared with the standard parameter (6‐hr cumulative 13 C‐exhalation). We determined the sensitivity and specificity of shortened breath sampling periods, by comparison with the normal values from 10 healthy volunteers, whom also underwent a secretin test to quantitate pancreatic secretion. Moreover, we evaluated the influence of gastric emptying (GE), using a 13 C‐octanoic acid breath test in a subset (N  = 117).

Results

The 1–5 hr cumulative 13 C‐exhalation tests correlated highly and significantly with the standard parameter (p  < 0.0001). Sensitivity for detection of impaired lipolysis was high (≥77%), but the specificity was low (≥38%) for the early measurements. Both parameters were high after 4 hrs (88% and 94%, respectively) and 5 hrs (98% and 91%, respectively). Multivariate linear correlation analysis confirmed that GE strongly influenced early postprandial 13 C‐exhalation during the 13 C‐MTGT.

Conclusion

Shortening of the 13 C ‐MTGT from 6 to 4 hrs of duration was associated with similar diagnostic accuracy, yet increased clinical usability. The influence of GE on early postprandial results of the 13 C‐MTGT precluded further abbreviation of the test.
An Analysis of SMEs’ Attitudes and Practices Toward Tax Compliance in Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyamwanza Tonderai , Mavhiki Severino , Mapetere Denver , Nyamwanza Lilian
Published: July 2014

The informal sector has become the major employer in Zimbabwe, but the sector is not contributing meaningfully to the treasury due to noncompliance on tax remittances by the operators. The research was done on 50 businesses in the retail sector in Gweru. The findings are that minimal efforts are being put in place to enforce compliance, and corruption levels are high among the tax collection officials. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) evade compliance by paying bribes, keeping two sets of records, relocating to new premises without notifying authorities, and temporarily closing businesses during compliance blitz. Penalties have been found to be the most effective in enforcing compliance. Publicity should be increased by authorities using radio, television, and pamphlets, which were found to be most effective. In addition, the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) should give business people more formal tax education to enhance understanding of tax obligations and compliance.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome in a Retroperitoneal Sarcoma
Authors: Zakharia Yousef , Mansour Joshua , Vasireddi Srinivasa , Zakharia Kais , Fatakhov Eduard , Koch Christopher , Hrinczenko Borys
Published: July 2014

In the present case, a 49-year-old white female presented to the clinic with a 2-month history of nausea, vomiting, and right upper quadrant pain. On examination a 3-cm mass on the right anterior scalene muscle was noted. A computed tomography scan was performed revealing a 8.7 × 7.7 × 6.1 cm retroperitoneal mass with possible invasion of the inferior vena cava and right renal and left common iliac veins. An excisional biopsy was performed with pathology compatible with spindle cell sarcoma. The patient was then sent for follow-up at the sarcoma clinic as an outpatient. However, before chemotherapy was to be started the patient would be admitted to the hospital with progressively worse nausea and vomiting. At that time the patient’s lab work showed lactic acidosis, acute renal failure, hyperuricemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypocalcemia, which met the Cairo–Bishop criteria for tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). The patient was admitted to the intensive care unit and kidney dialysis initiated. The patient would become progressively obtunded at which time the family opted for hospice care. The patient eventually succumbed peacefully 3 days after her last admission. In this case report, we briefly review the literature on TLS in solid tumors, and we present a rare case of spontaneous TLS in a retroperitoneal sarcoma.
Characterization, sequencing and comparative genomic analysis of vB_AbaM-IME-AB2, a novel lytic bacteriophage that infects multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates
Authors: Peng Fan , Mi Zhiqiang , Huang Yong , Yuan Xin , Niu Wenkai , Wang Yahui , Hua Yuhui , Fan Huahao , Bai Changqing , Tong Yigang
Published: July 2014

Background

With the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, immunosuppressive drugs, and glucocorticoids, multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (MDR-AB) has become a major nosocomial pathogen species. The recent renaissance of bacteriophage therapy may provide new treatment strategies for combatting drug-resistant bacterial infections. In this study, we isolated a lytic bacteriophage vB_AbaM-IME-AB2 has a short latent period and a small burst size, which clear its host’s suspension quickly, was selected for characterization and a complete genomic comparative study.

Results

The isolated bacteriophage vB_AbaM-IME-AB2 has an icosahedral head and displays morphology resembling Myoviridae family. Gel separation assays showed that the phage particle contains at least nine protein bands with molecular weights ranging 15–100 kDa. vB_AbaM-IME-AB2 could adsorb its host cells in 9 min with an adsorption rate more than 99% and showed a short latent period (20 min) and a small burst size (62 pfu/cell). It could form clear plaques in the double-layer assay and clear its host’s suspension in just 4 hours. Whole genome of vB_AbaM-IME-AB2 was sequenced and annotated and the results showed that its genome is a double-stranded DNA molecule consisting of 43,665 nucleotides. The genome has a G + C content of 37.5% and 82 putative coding sequences (CDSs). We compared the characteristics and complete genome sequence of all known Acinetobacter baumannii bacteriophages. There are only three that have been sequenced Acinetobacter baumannii phages AB1, AP22, and phiAC-1, which have a relatively high similarity and own a coverage of 65%, 50%, 8% respectively when compared with our phage vB_AbaM-IME-AB2. A nucleotide alignment of the four Acinetobacter baumannii phages showed that some CDSs are similar, with no significant rearrangements observed. Yet some sections of these strains of phage are nonhomologous.

Conclusion

vB_AbaM-IME-AB2 was a novel and unique A. baumannii bacteriophage. These findings suggest a common ancestry and microbial diversity and evolution. A clear understanding of its characteristics and genes is conducive to the treatment of multidrug-resistant A. baumannii in the future.