bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Good, bad or indifferent: a longitudinal multi-methods study comparing four modes of training for healthcare professionals in one Australian state
Authors: Martin Priya , Kumar Saravana , Abernathy LuJuana , Browne Matthew
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The aim of the study was to compare the differences in learning outcomes for supervision training of healthcare professionals across four modes namely face-to-face, videoconference, online and blended modes. Furthermore, changes sustained at 3 months were examined.

Design/methods

A multimethods quasi-experimental longitudinal design was used. Data were collected at three points—before training, immediately after training and at 3 months post-training. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through anonymous surveys and reflective summaries, respectively.

Results

Participants reported an increase in supervision knowledge and confidence immediately after training that was sustained at 3 months with all four modalities of training. Using analysis of variance, we found these changes were sustained at 3 months postcompletion (confidence p<0.01 and knowledge p<0.01). However, there was no statistically significant difference in outcomes between the four modes of training delivery (confidence, p=0.22 or knowledge, p=0.39). Reflective summary data highlighted the differences in terminology used by participant to describe their experiences across the different modes, the key role of the facilitator in training delivery and the merits and risks associated with online training.

Conclusions

When designed and delivered carefully, training can achieve comparable outcomes across all four modes of delivery. Regardless of the mode of delivery, the facilitator in training delivery is critical in ensuring positive outcomes.
In which groups of pregnant women can the caesarean delivery rate likely be reduced safely in the USA? A multicentre cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Jin-Wen , Branch Ware , Hoffman Matthew , De Jonge Ank , Li Sheng-Hui , Troendle James , Zhang Jun
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To identify obstetrical subgroups in which (1) the caesarean delivery (CD) rate may be reduced without compromising safety and (2) CD may be associated with better perinatal outcomes.

Design

A multicentre cross-sectional study.

Setting

19 hospitals in the USA that participated in the Consortium on Safe Labor.

Participants

228 562 pregnant women in 2002–2008.

Main outcome measures

Maternal and neonatal safety was measured using the individual Weighted Adverse Outcome Score.

Methods

Women were divided into 10 subgroups according to a modified Robson classification system. Generalised estimated equation model was used to examine the relationships between mode of delivery and Weighted Adverse Outcome Score in each subgroup.

Results

The overall caesarean rate was 31.2%. Repeat CD contributed 29.5% of all CD, followed by nulliparas with labour induction (15.3%) and non-cephalic presentation (14.3%). The caesarean rates in induced nulliparas with a term singleton cephalic pregnancy and women with previous CD were 31.6% and 82.0%, respectively. CD had no clinically meaningful association with perinatal outcomes in most subgroups. However, in singleton preterm breech presentation and preterm twin gestation with the first twin in non-cephalic presentation, CD was associated with substantially improved maternal and perinatal outcomes.

Conclusions

Women with repeat CD, term non-cephalic presentation, term twins or other multiple gestation and preterm births may be the potential targets for safely reducing prelabour CD rate, while nulliparas or multiparas with spontaneous or induced labour, women with repeat CD, term non-cephalic presentation, term twins or other multiple gestation and preterm births are potential targets for reducing intrapartum CD rate without compromising maternal and neonatal safety in the USA. On the other hand, CD may still be associated with better perinatal outcomes in women with singleton preterm breech presentation or preterm twins with the first twin in non-cephalic presentation.
Complementary vaccination protocol with dendritic cells pulsed with autologous tumour lysate in patients with resected stage III or IV melanoma: protocol for a phase II randomised trial (ACDC Adjuvant Trial)
Authors: Ridolfi Laura , de Rosa Francesco , Fiammenghi Laura , Petrini Massimiliano , Granato Anna Maria , Ancarani Valentina , Pancisi Elena , Soldati Valentina , Cassan Serena , Bulgarelli Jenny , Riccobon Angela , Gentili Giorgia , Nanni Oriana , Framarini Massimo , Tauceri Francesca , Guidoboni Massimo
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Surgery is one of the treatments of choice for patients with a single metastasis from melanoma but is rarely curative. Such patients could potentially benefit from consolidation immunotherapy. Vaccination with dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with tumour antigens elicits a tumour-specific immune response. In our experience, patients who developed delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) after DC vaccination showed a median overall survival (OS) of 22.9 monthsvs4.8 months for DTH-negative cases. A phase II randomised trial showed an advantage OS of a DC vaccine over a tumour cell-based vaccine (2-year OS 72% vs31%, respectively). Given that there is no standard therapy after surgical resection of single metastases, we planned a study to compare vaccination with DCs pulsed with autologous tumour lysate versus follow-up.

Methods and analysis

This is a randomised phase II trial in patients with resected stage III/IV melanoma. Assuming a median relapse-free survival (RFS) of 7.0 months for the standard group and 11.7 months for the experimental arm (HR 0.60), with a two-sided tailed alpha of 0.10, 60 patients per arm must be recruited. An interim futility analysis will be performed at 18 months. The DC vaccine, produced in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines, consists of autologous DCs loaded with autologous tumour lysate and injected intradermally near lymph nodes. Vaccine doses will be administered every 4 weeks for six vaccinations and will be followed by 3 million unit /day of interleukin-2 for 5 days. Tumour restaging, blood sampling for immunological biomarkers and DTH testing will be performed every 12 weeks.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol, informed consent and accompanying material given to patients were submitted by the investigator to the Ethics Committee for review. The local Ethics Committee and the Italian Medicines Agency approved the protocol (EudraCT code no.2014-005123-27). Results will be published in a peer-reviewed international scientific journal.

Trial registration number

2014-005123-27.
Exploring how Brazilian immigrant mothers living in the USA obtain information about physical activity and screen time for their preschool-aged children: a qualitative study
Authors: Lindsay Ana Cristina , Moura Arruda Carlos André , Tavares Machado Márcia Maria , De Andrade Gabriela Pereira , Greaney Mary L
Published: August 2018

Objective

To explore how Brazilian-born immigrant mothers living in the USA obtain information about physical activity (PA) and screen time (ST) behaviours for their preschool-aged children.

Research design

Focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to gain an in-depth understanding of research topics. All FGDs were audio-recorded and professionally transcribed verbatim. The Portuguese transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis, an iterative process of coding the data in phases to create meaningful patterns.

Participants

Thirty-seven Brazilian-born immigrant mothers of preschool-age children.

Setting

This study was conducted in two cities in Massachusetts (MA). Participants were recruited from two predominantly Brazilian churches, local Brazilian businesses and community-based social and health services organisations in the Greater Boston area in MA.

Results

Analyses revealed that the mothers participating in this study did not initially actively seek out information about PA and ST for their preschool-age children, but that they received unsolicited information about these behaviours from multiple sources including their child’s paediatrician, Women, Infant and Children (WIC) programme staff, members of their social network of Brazilian friends and the Brazilian media. Mothers reported that this unsolicited information increased their knowledge about the importance of making sure their children were physically active and not participating in excessive ST. This increased awareness led mothers to actively seek information about PA and ST behaviours via the internet and through interpersonal communication with fellow Brazilian friends and family.

Conclusions

Given the value Brazilian immigrant mothers placed on the advice of their paediatricians and WIC staff, interventions should consider involving these healthcare professionals, possibly through including endorsement (eg, prescription for PA and maximum ST). More research is needed to ensure Brazilian immigrant mothers’ health and media literacy including their ability to navigate the online environment and to discern the accuracy and quality of information from various web sites.
Can trained volunteers improve the mealtime care of older hospital patients? An implementation study in one English hospital
Authors: Howson Fiona F A , Robinson Sian M , Lin Sharon X , Orlando Rosanna , Cooper Cyrus , Sayer Avan A P , Roberts Helen C
Published: August 2018

Objective

Multinational studies report undernutrition among 39% older inpatients; importantly, malnutrition risk may further increase while in hospital. Contributory factors include insufficient mealtime assistance from time-pressured hospital staff. A pilot study showed trained volunteers could safely improve mealtime care. This study evaluates the wider implementation of a mealtime assistance programme.

Design

Mixed methods prospective quasi-experimental study.

Setting

Nine wards across Medicine for Older People (MOP), Acute Medical Unit, Orthopaedics and Adult Medicine departments in one English hospital.

Participants

Patients, volunteers, ward staff.

Intervention

Volunteers trained to help patients aged ≥70 years at weekday lunchtime and evening meals.

Main outcome measures

The number of volunteers recruited, trained and their activity was recorded. Barriers and enablers to the intervention were explored through interviews and focus groups with patients, ward staff and volunteers. The total cost of the programme was evaluated.

Results

65 volunteers (52 female) helped at 846 meals (median eight/volunteer, range 2–109). The mix of ages (17–77 years) and employment status enabled lunch and evening mealtimes to be covered. Feeding patients was the most common activity volunteers performed, comprising 56% of volunteer interactions on MOP and 34%–35% in other departments. Patients and nurses universally valued the volunteers, who were skilled at encouraging reluctant eaters. Training was seen as essential by volunteers, patients and staff. The volunteers released potential costs of clinical time equivalent to a saving of £27.04/patient/day of healthcare assistant time or £45.04 of newly qualified nurse time above their training costs during the study.

Conclusions

Patients in all departments had a high level of need for mealtime assistance. Trained volunteers were highly valued by patients and staff. The programme was cost-saving releasing valuable nursing time.

Trial registration number

NCT02229019; Pre-results.
Effectiveness of female condom in preventing HIV and sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Mome Ruth KB , Wiyeh Alison B , Kongnyuy Eugene J , Wiysonge Charles Shey
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The HIV pandemic continues to evolve with young women being the most vulnerable group to acquire infection. The presence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) further enhances HIV susceptibility and also leads to long-term complications such as infertility and cervical cancer. The female condom is a self-initiated method for STI and HIV prevention but there are controversies on its effects. We aim to assess the effectiveness, safety and acceptability of the use of female condoms for prevention of STI and HIV acquisition among women.

Methods and analysis

We will search Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry and reference lists of relevant publications for potentially eligible studies. We will screen search outputs, select eligible studies, extract data and assess risk of bias in duplicate; resolving discrepancies through discussion and consensus or arbitration. We will combine data from clinically homogenous studies in a fixed effect meta-analysis and assess the certainty of the evidence using the method for Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. We registered the planned systematic review with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) in March 2018 and will finalise the search strategy in August 2018; conduct the searches and select eligible studies between August and October 2018; and collect data, conduct statistical analyses and prepare and submit the manuscript for consideration by a peer-reviewed journal between November 2018 and April 2019.

Ethics and dissemination

We will use publicly available data; hence no formal ethical approval is required for this review. We will disseminate the findings of this review through conference presentations and publication in an open-access peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018090710.
Cost–utility analysis of low-intensity case management to increase contact with health services among ex-prisoners in Australia
Authors: Cheng Qinglu , Kinner Stuart A , Lee Xing J , Snow Kathryn J , Graves Nicholas
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The economic burden of incarceration is substantial in Australia. People released from prison are at high risk of poor health and this is an important predictor of recidivism. The ‘Passports Study’ was a randomised controlled trial of an intervention designed to increase health service utilisation after release from prison. The aim of this study is to conduct a cost–utility analysis of this transitional programme.

Setting

Australia

Design

A hybrid simulation model was developed to estimate the changes to total economic costs and effectiveness expressed as quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) from the adoption of the ’Passports’ intervention compared with the control group. Model parameters were informed by linked data from Queensland Corrective Services, Medicare, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, Queensland Hospital Admission Patient Data Collection, Emergency Department Information System and National Death Index. Health-related quality of life was measured using the Short-Form 8 Health Survey (SF-8). The primary outcomes were the costs and estimated QALYs associated with the intervention group and the control group. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted to test parameter uncertainties.

Results

Compared with the control group where no attempt was made to encourage health service utilisation, an average participant in the intervention group incurred an extra cost of AUD 1790 and experienced slightly reduced QALYs, which indicated that the intervention was dominated in the baseline analysis. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed that the transitional programme had a low probability of being cost-effective with the outcome measures selected.

Conclusion

The findings of this study do not provide economic evidence to support the widespread adoption of the Passports intervention. Due to the reductionist nature of the cost–utility approach, it may be that important health-related benefits have been omitted. Another research approach using a wider range of health-related measures might generate different conclusions.
‘Has she seen me?’: a multiple methods study of the pharmaceutical care needs of older people with sensory impairment in Scotland
Authors: Alhusein Nour , Macaden Leah , Smith Annetta , Stoddart Kathleen M , Taylor Andrea J , Killick Kirsty , Kroll Thilo , Watson Margaret C
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To explore the pharmaceutical care needs of, and service provision to, older people with sensory impairment (visual, hearing and dual impairment) on prescribed polypharmacy (≥4 medicines) in Scotland.

Design

Interviews were conducted with older people with sensory impairment and community pharmacy personnel, which informed the content of a subsequent national cross-sectional survey of community pharmacists.

Setting

Scotland, 2015–2016.

Participants

Older people with sensory impairment and community pharmacy personnel.

Results

Interviews were completed with 23 older people with sensory impairment (dual impairment n=13, visual or hearing impairment n=5 of each) and 30 community pharmacy personnel from eight of 14 Scottish Health Boards. A total of 171 survey responses were received.

Older people reported that they did not always disclose their sensory impairment to pharmacy personnel. They also reported that medicines were difficult to identify particularly when their name, shape or colour changed. Pharmacy personnel relied on visible cues such as white canes or guide dogs to identify visual impairment and suggested that hearing loss was less visible and more difficult to identify. Many assistive aids in support of medicine management, such as dosette boxes, seemed inadequate for complex medication regimens. Few community pharmacy personnel reported receiving training in the care of people with sensory impairment.

Conclusions

This is the first comprehensive, multistakeholder, in-depth exploration of the pharmaceutical care needs of older people with sensory impairment. Strategies are needed to enable people with sensory impairment to disclose their impairment to pharmacy personnel (and other healthcare providers). Community pharmacy personnel require training to deliver person-centred pharmaceutical care for older people with sensory impairment particularly regarding communication with individuals in this vulnerable population.
MAGDALENA: study protocol of a randomised, placebo-controlled trial on cognitive development at 2 years of age in children exposed to SSRI in utero
Authors: Heinonen Essi , Szymanska-von Schultz Barbara , Kaldo Viktor , Nasiell Josefine , Andersson Ewa , Bergmark Mikaela , Blomdahl-Wetterholm Margareta , Forsberg Lisa , Forsell Erik , Forsgren Anna , Frööjd Sandra , Goldman Amy , Nordenadler Eva-Mari , Sklivanioti Myrto , Blennow Mats , Wide Katarina , Gustafsson Lars L
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Ten per cent of all pregnant women are depressed. Standard therapy of pregnant women with moderate depression is selective serotonin reuptakeinhibitors (SSRI). Observational studies on neurodevelopment after fetal SSRI exposure show conflicting results. Our primary objective is to compare the cognitive development in children exposed to sertraline and maternal depression with those exposed to maternal depression and placebo in utero. We hypothesise that there is a significant neurodevelopmental difference between the groups. As a secondary objective, we study the add-on effect of sertraline to internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) to treat moderate depression during pregnancy.

Methods and analysis

MAGDALENA is a randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded trial in Stockholm Healthcare Region with 2.3 million inhabitants. The women are recruited in weeks 9–21 of pregnancy either through Antenatal Health Clinics or through social media. They are to be diagnosed with moderate depression without ongoing antidepressive therapy or any serious comorbidity. The women in the intervention arm receive sertraline combined with a 12-week period of ICBT; the control arm is treated with placebo and ICBT. We assess the cognitive development in the offspring at the age of 2 years using Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, third edition (BSID-III). We aim at recruiting 200 women, 100 women in each treatment arm, to ensure statistical power to detect a clinically relevant difference between the groups.

Ethics and dissemination

This randomised trial will provide long-sought evidence about the effects of SSRI and maternal depression during pregnancy on the neurodevelopment in the offspring. The study is approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm and the Swedish Medical Products Agency. It is registered with the European Clinical Trials Database (EudraCT), Number: 2013-004444-31. Results will be disseminated at scientific conferences, published in peer-reviewed journals and made available to the public.

Trial registration number

EudraCT2013-004444-31; Pre-results.
Validating injury burden estimates using population birth cohorts and longitudinal cohort studies of injury outcomes: the VIBES-Junior study protocol
Authors: Gabbe Belinda J , Dipnall Joanna F , Lynch John W , Rivara Frederick P , Lyons Ronan A , Ameratunga Shanthi , Brussoni Mariana , Lecky Fiona E , Bradley Clare , Simpson Pam M , Beck Ben , Demmler Joanne C , Lyons Jane , Schneeberg Amy , Harrison James E
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Traumatic injury is a leading contributor to the global disease burden in children and adolescents, but methods used to estimate burden do not account for differences in patterns of injury and recovery between children and adults. A lack of empirical data on postinjury disability in children has limited capacity to derive valid disability weights and describe the long-term individual and societal impacts of injury in the early part of life. The aim of this study is to establish valid estimates of the burden of non-fatal injury in children and adolescents.

Methods and analysis

Five longitudinal studies of paediatric injury survivors <18 years at the time of injury (Australia, Canada, UK and USA) and two whole-of-population linked administrative data paediatric studies (Australia and Wales) will be analysed over a 3-year period commencing 2018. Meta-analysis of deidentified patient-level data (n≈2,600) from five injury-specific longitudinal studies (Victorian State Trauma Registry; Victorian Orthopaedic Trauma Outcomes Registry; UK Burden of Injury; British Columbia Children’s Hospital Longitudinal Injury Outcomes; Children’s Health After Injury) and >1 million children from two whole-of-population cohorts (South Australian Early Childhood Data Project and Wales Electronic Cohort for Children). Systematic analysis of pooled injury-specific cohort data using a variety of statistical techniques, and parallel analysis of whole-of-population cohorts, will be used to develop estimated disability weights for years lost due to disability, establish appropriate injury classifications and explore factors influencing recovery.

Ethics and dissemination

The project was approved by the Monash University Human Research Ethics Committee project number 12 311. Results of this study will be submitted for publication in internationally peer-reviewed journals. The findings from this project have the capacity to improve the validity of paediatric injury burden measurements in future local and global burden of disease studies.
Testicular Cancer in New Zealand (TCNZ) study: protocol for a national case–control study
Authors: Gurney Jason K , Stanley James , McGlynn Katherine , Richiardi Lorenzo , Shaw Caroline , Edwards Richard , Merriman Tony R , Robson Bridget , Koea Jonathan , McLeod Melissa , Kennedy Martin A , Sarfati Diana
Published: August 2018

Testicular cancer (TC) is by far the most common cancer to affect young men; however, the exposures that cause this disease are still poorly understood. Our own research has shown that Māori men have the highest rates of this disease in New Zealand—a puzzling observation, since internationally TC is most commonly a disease of men of European ancestry. These trends provide us with a unique opportunity: to learn more about the currently unknown exposures that cause TC, and to explain why Māori have the highest rates of this disease in New Zealand. Using epidemiology and genetics, our experienced research team will conduct a nationwide study which aims to answer these internationally important questions.

Aim of study

The overall aim of the current national case–control study is to identify the key exposures in the development of TC in New Zealand, and explore which factors might explain the difference in the incidence of TC between Māori and non-Māori.

Methods and analysis

Outside of our own investigations into cryptorchidism, we still do not know which exposures are driving the significant incidence disparity between ethnic groups in NZ. The aim of the proposed research is to use a population-based case–control study to identify the key exposures in the development of TC in New Zealand. We will recruit 410 TC cases and 410 controls, and collect (1) environmental exposure data, via interview and (2) genetic information, via genome-wide genotyping.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was sought and received from the New Zealand Ministry of Health’s Health and Disability Ethics Committee (reference # 17/NTA/248). Following a careful data interpretation process, we will disseminate the findings of this study to a wide and varied audience ranging from general academia, community groups and clinical settings, as well as to the participants themselves.
Safety and efficacy of the Derivo Embolization Device for the treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Goertz Lukas , Dorn Franziska , Kraus Bastian , Borggrefe Jan , Schlamann Marc , Forbrig Robert , Turowski Bernd , Kabbasch Christoph
Published: August 2018

Background

The Derivo Embolization Device (DED) is a novel flow diverter with advanced X-ray visibility, potentially lower thrombogenicity, and an improved delivery system.

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the DED for emergency treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms.

Methods

Between February 2016 and March 2018, 10 patients (median age 54.5 years, seven women) with 11 aneurysms were treated with the DED at three neurovascular centers. Procedural details, complications, morbidity, and aneurysm occlusion (O’Kelly-Marotta scale, OKM) were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Among 11 aneurysms treated, there were nine anterior circulation and two posterior circulation aneurysms. Aneurysm morphology was saccular in four cases, dissecting in three, blister-like in three, and fusiform in one. In each case, a single DED was implanted and deployment was technically successful without exception. Adjunctive coiling was performed in two aneurysms. We observed one in-stent thrombosis, presumably due to low response to clopidogrel 4 days after the procedure, which remained with a mild hemiparesis after aspiration thrombectomy. No further thromboembolic or hemorrhagic events occurred. Favorable outcome (modified Rankin scale score ≤2) at last follow-up was achieved in all patients. Among 10 aneurysms available for angiographic follow-up, complete aneurysm occlusion (OKM D) was obtained in nine cases (90.0%).

Conclusions

In this pilot study, endovascular treatment of ruptured intracranial aneurysms with the DED was feasible and not associated with any incidence of rebleeding. Larger series with longer follow-up are warranted to reach a definite conclusion about this device.
MHD flow, under the kinetic postulate, of fluids that are initially liquid under thermal radiation effects
Authors: Hussain Azad , Muneer Zainia , Malik M.Y. , Ghafoor Saadia
Published: August 2018

The present study focuses on the non-Newtonian magnetohydrodynamic flow, under the kinetic postulate, of fluids that are initially liquid past a porous plate in the appearance of thermal radiation effects. Resemblance transfigurations are used to metamorphose the governing equations for temperature and velocity into a system of ordinary differential equations. We then solved these differential equations subject to convenient boundary conditions by using the shooting method along with the Runge–Kutta method. Heat transfer and characteristic flow results are acquired for different compositions of physical parameters. These results are extended graphically to demonstrate interesting attributes of the physics of the problem. Nusselt number and skin friction coefficients are also discussed via graphs and tables for different values of dimensionless parameters. Decline occurs in velocity profile due to escalating values of M. Temperature profile depicts growing behavior due to acceleration in the values of λ and M. Nusselt number and skin friction curves represent rising behavior according to their parameters.
Hilbert curves of quadric fibrations
Authors: Lanteri Antonio
Published: August 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a quadric fibration over a smooth curve. The explicit equation of the corresponding Hilbert curve [Formula: see text] is obtained. The geometry of [Formula: see text] reflects some structure properties of [Formula: see text]; in particular, its special shape allows us to recognize that [Formula: see text] is a quadric fibration. In fact [Formula: see text] is reducible into [Formula: see text] parallel lines with prescribed slope, evenly spaced, plus a conic. On the other hand, this conic can itself be regarded as the Hilbert curve of a polarized surface only in very rare circumstances.
A Contrast Enhancement Method for Improving Surface Defects Detection of Elevator Compensation Chain
Authors: Zhu Jianjiang , Ji Wei , Liu Jicheng
Published: August 2018

A contrast enhancement method based on the adaptive noise threshold estimation and logarithmic function in nonsubsampled contourlet transform (NSCT) domain is proposed, which can improve the defects segmentation accuracy of the elevator compensation chain. After extracting region of interest (ROI) according to the spatial location of defects, it is transformed into NSCT domain, where the high-frequency subband coefficients corresponding to noise is suppressed by the adaptive noise threshold estimation. Then, the logarithmic function transformation is used to enhance the image edges to a variable extent. Finally, the enhanced image is segmented by watershed algorithm based on laws texture analysis. Experimental results demonstrate that the performance of the proposed method is superior to the existing methods in terms of both the quality of contrast enhancement and the segmentation accuracy.
Fault Tolerant Control of EPS System with Sensor Fault
Authors: Allous Manel , Mrabet Kais , Zanzouri Nadia
Published: August 2018

Taking into account the sensors faults, modeling of electric power steering (EPS) behavior improves steering reliability. Such task becomes difficult considering the nonlinearity of EPS systems. Therefore, in order to ensure the good behavior stability of the EPS, it is important to validate such established models on a real system. Hence, a fault tolerant control (FTC) design is herein proposed by considering an occurring fault at the torsion bar. A Luenberger observer is used to estimate the torque sensor fault. The FTC is performed to compensate this sensor fault by using the inverse bond graph (BG) modeling. Our simulations reveal the importance of proposed control strategy to improve the EPS system performance but also to reduce the system complexity.
Dynamics and Stability of Non-Planar Rigid Rotor Equipped with Two Ball-Spring Autobalancers
Authors: Rezaee Mousa , Mohammad Ettefagh Mir , Fathi Reza
Published: August 2018

Recently, a new type of automatic ball balancer (ABB), called the ball-spring autobalancer (AB), has been proposed, which substantially eliminates the drawbacks of the traditional ABBs. In previous studies, the dynamics of the Jeffcott planar rotor equipped with ball-spring AB has been investigated. In the Jeffcott model, it is assumed that the ABB is located on the plane of the unbalance disk. However, for the non-planar rigid rotor with distributed imbalances, out-of-plane motions may occur, and the Jeffcott model becomes unreliable as the tilting motion cannot be explained. To this end, the aim of this paper is to analyze the capability of the ball-spring AB in balancing non-planar rotors and to reconfirm its pre-claimed advantages over the traditional ABBs for balancing non-planar rotors. To start, the mathematical model of the rigid rotor with two ball-spring ABs is established, based on which the nonlinear equations of motion are derived. Then, the system time responses are computed numerically and the balanced stable regions are acquired by the Lyapunov’s first method. The results of this study show that the ball-spring ABs can balance the non-planar rotors and the tilting motion does not impair the pre-claimed advantages of the ball-spring AB.
Design and Modeling of a Lightweight and Low Power Consumption Full-Scale Biped Robot
Authors: Folgheraiter Michele , Aubakir Bauyrzhan
Published: August 2018

This paper introduces the design methodology, the modeling and the power consumption tests for a newly developed biped robot equipped with 12 DOFs. The robot is 1.1 meters tall (lower limbs) which makes it comparable in dimension with other state-of-the-art full-scale humanoids. By using a combination of 3D printing techniques and lightweight materials, the system weighs only 10.8[Formula: see text]kg (without batteries) while retaining high links strength and rigidity. Without compromising the workspace dimension, the robot presents a very low weight-to-height ratio (9.8[Formula: see text]kg/m) that translates into a safer operation and reduced energy consumption. To perform elementary locomotion primitives, e.g., changing the support from one foot to the other or lifting its body, the robot prototype consumes only 65 watts. Simulation results demonstrate the suitability of the robot’s kinematics to perform walking motion and predict an average power consumption of 200 watts. The direct kinematics of the robot is presented together with its inverse dynamics based on a Chaotic Recurrent Neural Network (CRNN). The adaptive model is identified using a recursive least squares algorithm that allows the CRNN to predict the torques at different step lengths with a MSE of 0.0057 on normalized data.
Experimental Investigation of the UV Influence on the Fatigue Life of SLJ of CFRP/AL
Authors: Khaleel Salah Mahdi , Hilditch Tim , Rolfe Bernard , Al-Ameri Riyadh
Published: August 2018

The adhesively bonded joint in most of applications is subjected to a complex formation of loading system and environmental conditions. Application such as cars, boats and airplanes are real-life examples of these types of complex systems. Therefore, evaluating the joint performance in contradiction of these types of loading are essential steps to understand the joint behavior in different working conditions. The current study attempts to investigate the influence of ultraviolet and elevated temperature as well as other loading parameters such as mean load and frequency on the fatigue life and fracture modes of adhesively bonded single lap joint of CFRP and Aluminum. Therefore, single lap joint samples prepared and exposed to different ultraviolet levels and exposure durations, then tested with constant amplitude fatigue at different load levels and frequencies. The main outcomes of this study show a 90% reduction in the fatigue life by increasing fatigue loading from 2[Formula: see text]kN to 5[Formula: see text]kN and there is a 29% reduction by increasing frequency from 5[Formula: see text]Hz to 15[Formula: see text]Hz for the same load level. While UV exposure level shows only 3–5% reduction compared to 8% reduction for the elevated temperature influence on fatigue life.
Evolutionary algorithms for software testing in Facebook
Authors: Harman Mark
Published: August 2018

Mark Harman is widely known in our community for his work on source code analy-sis and testing and was instrumental in the founding of the field of Search Based Software Engineering (SBSE). Since its inception in 2001, SBSE has rapidly grown to include over 800 authors, from 270 institutions spread over 40 countries.
Adult Intussusception due to Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Rare Case Report, Comprehensive Literature Review, and Diagnostic Challenges in Low-Resource Countries
Authors: Ssentongo Paddy , Egan Mark , Arkorful Temitope E. , Dorvlo Theodore , Scott Oneka , Oh John S. , Amponsah-Manu Forster
Published: August 2018

We present a rare case of gastrogastric intussusception due to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and the largest comprehensive literature review of published case reports on gastrointestinal (GI) intussusception due to GIST in the past three decades. We found that the common presenting symptoms were features of gastrointestinal obstruction and melena. We highlight the diagnostic challenges faced in low-resource countries. Our findings emphasize the importance of early clinical diagnosis in low-resource settings in order to guide timely management. In addition, histological analysis of the tumor for macroscopic and microscopic characteristics including mitotic index and c-Kit/CD117 status should be obtained to guide adjuvant therapy with imatinib mesylate. Periodic follow-up to access tumor recurrence is fundamental and should be the standard of care.
Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antitumoral Effects of Aqueous Ethanolic Extract fromPhoenix dactyliferaL. Parthenocarpic Dates
Authors: El Abed Hanen , Chakroun Mouna , Abdelkafi-Koubaa Zaineb , Drira Noureddine , Marrakchi Naziha , Mejdoub Hafedh , Khemakhem Bassem
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant, the anti-inflammatory, and the antitumoral activities of the aqueous ethanolic extract fromPhoenix dactyliferaL. parthenocarpic dates. The antioxidant activity was carried using DPPH radical scavenging activity. The result showed that parthenocarpic dates had strongly scavenging activity on DPPH reaching 94% with an IC50value of 0.15 ± 0.011 mg/mL (p < 0.05). The anti-inflammatory potential was determined by the inhibitory effect of the aqueous ethanolic extract on phospholipase A2activity as well as on carrageenan-induced paw oedema in mice. Thein vitrostudy showed that the extract inhibited the phospholipase A2activity with an IC50value of 130 μg/mL and thein vivostudy showed a significantly decrease in the paw oedema after 1 h compared to the control group. Finally, the antiproliferative activity of the aqueous ethanolic extract was assessed by MTT test against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines. This extract was effective in inhibiting MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cancer cells growth with IC50values of 8 and 18 mg/mL, respectively, after 72 h treatment. These results confirm the ethnopharmacological significance ofPhoenix dactyliferaL. parthenocarpic dates, which could add support for its pharmaceutical use.
Solutions to No‐Wait Flow Shop Scheduling Problem Using the Flower Pollination Algorithm Based on the Hormone Modulation Mechanism
Authors: Qu Chiwen , Fu Yanming , Yi Zhongjun , Tan Jun
Published: August 2018

A flower pollination algorithm is proposed based on the hormone modulation mechanism (HMM‐FPA) to solve the no‐wait flow shop scheduling problem (NWFSP). This algorithm minimizes the maximum accomplished time. Random keys are encoded based on an ascending sequence of components to make the flower pollination algorithm (FPA) suitable for the no‐wait flow shop scheduling problem. The hormone modulation factor is introduced to strengthen information sharing among the flowers and improve FPA cross‐pollination to enhance the algorithm global search performance. A variable neighborhood search strategy based on dynamic self‐adaptive variable work piece blocks is constructed to improve the local search quality. Three common benchmark instances are applied to test the proposed algorithm. The result verifies that this algorithm is effective.
The Effects of Andrographis paniculata on Platelet Activity in Healthy Thai Volunteers
Authors: Sirikarin Tichapa , Palo Titchaporn , Chotewuttakorn Sirikul , Chandranipapongse Weerawadee , Limsuvan Suveerawan , Akarasereenont Pravit
Published: August 2018

Background. Andrographis paniculata (AP) has been used in Thai traditional medicine to treat various infections, including the common cold and fever. Its bioactive compound, andrographolide, has shown antiplatelet activities in an in vitro study model. Since clinical studies of the effects of AP on the human platelet function have never been reported, we investigated its effect on platelet activity in ten healthy volunteers. Methods. Two grams of AP was taken 3 times within one day. The blood was withdrawn by venipuncture before and 2 and 24 hours after the AP administration to analyze the effects of AP on platelet aggregation, the expression of enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) mRNA and protein, and TXB2, including P‐selectin. Result. Even though there was no significant change in the studied parameters, this study exhibited patient‐to‐patient variability in platelet function. It was found that ADP‐induced platelet aggregation tended to decrease after AP administration, while epinephrine‐induced platelet aggregation in females tended to be higher than that in males for the entire study period. Moreover, COX‐1 mRNA levels tended to decrease while P‐selectin levels tended to rise after AP administration. Conclusion. These controversial results are possibly due to the multifactorial mechanisms of platelet aggregation as well as the multichemical composition of AP. Further study, probably at the molecular level, is needed to unveil the underlying mechanisms of action of AP.
Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Various Interventions for Nontraumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Wang Ji , Wang Jing , Zhang Kai , Wang Yanfang , Bao Xuanwen
Published: August 2018

Objective. To assess the effectiveness of various therapeutic hip preservation strategies on patients with nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). Design. This is a systematic review of previous literature and in-depth Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare the clinical effect of various operation methods and one physical intervention (extracorporeal shockwave). Data Sources. Electronic literature, for studies published up to December 2017, was collected from PubMed, Medline, and the Cochrane Library. Study Selection. We selected RCTs on patients with ONFH. Treatment methods included extracorporeal shockwave (ESW), core decompression (CD), multiple drilling decompression (DD), vascularized fibular grafting (VFG), free-vascularized fibular grafting (FVFG), inverted femoral head grafting (IFHG), vascular iliac pedicle bone grafting (VIPBG), osteotomy, and tantalum implantation (TI). Outcome. The primary outcome was Harris score; the secondary outcome was Harris hip score (HHS), including total hip arthroplasty requirement (THA) and progression to collapse. Results. A total of 14 randomized controlled trials were investigated. ESW had the highest improvement on Harris score (probability best 52%), followed by VFG (probability was 38%). In the meanwhile, VFG also proved to be superior in reducing the failure rates of treatment (probability lowest 59%), followed by ESW (probability lowest 24%). In femoral necrosis stage-II, VFG achieved the highest probability in preventing treatment failures (52%) and showed better performance in reducing treatment failure rates than CD. Conclusion. ESW therapy (ESWT) is the most effective intervention to improve HHS, and VFG shows superior effect on reducing treatment failure rates.
Failure Mechanism of the Qianjiangping Slope in Three Gorges Reservoir Area, China
Authors: Zhang Zhenhua , Qian Mingming , Wei Song , Chen Juxiang
Published: August 2018

The Qianjiangping landslide is the first large-scale rock slide in Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) Area, China, after the impoundment of the TGR. Previous studies on the slope showed that most researchers agreed that reservoir impoundment and rainfall were the two main triggering factors of the slope failure. However, there were different views about the influence degrees of the two factors on the slope failure. In order to clarify the influence degrees of each of three conditions (reservoir impoundment, rainfall, and combined effect of reservoir impoundment and rainfall) on the failure of the Qianjiangping slope and reveal the failure mechanism of the slope, underground water tables and stresses in the slope were calculated under the three conditions, respectively, based on fluid-solid coupling theory using the Abaqus software in this paper; then, the failure approach index (FAI) was adopted to analyze the failure characteristics of the slope under each of the three conditions. Research results show that the influence degree of rainfall is greater than that of reservoir impoundment on the slope failure, and the influence degree of the combined effect of reservoir impoundment and rainfall is greater than that of rainfall; the sliding surface runs through only in the condition of the combined effect of reservoir impoundment and rainfall. Study results suggest that with the reservoir water level rising, the toe of the slope was gradually submerged in reservoir water and the strength of rock mass submerged by reservoir water decreased due to water-rock interaction; furthermore, the heavy rainfall was rapidly injected into the slope through the interlayer staggered zone and slope surface, the groundwater table in the middle part of the slope rose rapidly, the sliding force of the slope increased, and the stress concentration appeared at the lower part of the slope; finally, the rock bridges submerged by reservoir water in the front of the slope fractured, and the failure of the slope occurred.
Intracellular and Plasma Membrane Events in Cholesterol Transport and Homeostasis
Authors: Litvinov Dmitry Y. , Savushkin Eugeny V. , Dergunov Alexander D.
Published: August 2018

Cholesterol transport between intracellular compartments proceeds by both energy- and non-energy-dependent processes. Energy-dependent vesicular traffic partly contributes to cholesterol flux between endoplasmic reticulum, plasma membrane, and endocytic vesicles. Membrane contact sites and lipid transfer proteins are involved in nonvesicular lipid traffic. Only “active" cholesterol molecules outside of cholesterol-rich regions and partially exposed in water phase are able to fast transfer. The dissociation of partially exposed cholesterol molecules in water determines the rate of passive aqueous diffusion of cholesterol out of plasma membrane. ATP hydrolysis with concomitant conformational transition is required to cholesterol efflux by ABCA1 and ABCG1 transporters. Besides, scavenger receptor SR-B1 is involved also in cholesterol efflux by facilitated diffusion via hydrophobic tunnel within the molecule. Direct interaction of ABCA1 with apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) or apoA-I binding to high capacity binding sites in plasma membrane is important in cholesterol escape to free apoA-I. ABCG1-mediated efflux to fully lipidated apoA-I within high density lipoprotein particle proceeds more likely through the increase of “active” cholesterol level. Putative cholesterol-binding linear motifs within the structure of all three proteins ABCA1, ABCG1, and SR-B1 are suggested to contribute to the binding and transfer of cholesterol molecules from cytoplasmic to outer leaflets of lipid bilayer. Together, plasma membrane events and intracellular cholesterol metabolism and traffic determine the capacity of the cell for cholesterol efflux.