bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Perceived Risk of Falling and Adoption of Precautions to Reduce Fall Risk
Authors: Blalock Susan J. , Gildner Paula L. , Jones Jennifer L. , Bowling James M. , Casteel Carri H.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To better understand the relationship between perceived risk of falling and awareness and adoption of four specific precautions that older adults have taken to reduce this risk.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Data were collected in in‐person interviews conducted in the homes of study participants. Interviews conducted between March 2011 and September 2013 and lasted an average of 60–90 minutes.

Participants

A stratified sampling strategy designed to enroll an equal number of homebound and nonhomebound participants was used. All participants (N = 164) were recruited from central North Carolina.

Measurements

Participants were asked about 1‐year fall history, perceived risk of falling, restriction of activities because of fear of falling, awareness of four recommended fall prevention behaviors (exercise, annual medication review, bathroom grab bars, safe footwear), and current practice of these behaviors.

Results

In bivariate analyses, individuals who were aware of two behaviors recommended to reduce the risk of falling (exercise, use of safe footwear) and had adopted these behaviors perceived their risk of falling as lower than individuals who were aware of the recommended behaviors but had not adopted them. Moreover, in multivariate analyses, individuals who did not know that exercise is recommended to reduce the risk of falling perceived their risk of falling as lower than those who were aware of this recommendation and had adopted it. Individuals were least likely to be aware that medication reviews and exercise are recommended to reduce fall risk.

Conclusion

Awareness of behaviors recommended to reduce fall risk appears necessary for adoption of these behaviors to reduce perceived risk. Fall‐prevention campaigns should emphasize behaviors where awareness is low.
Combined Effects of Chewing Ability and Dietary Diversity on Medical Service Use and Expenditures
Authors: Lo Yuan‐Ting C. , Wahlqvist Mark L. , Chang Yu‐Hung , Lee Meei‐Shyuan
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To examine whether chewing ability affects healthcare use and expenditure and whether improving dietary quality alleviates any such effects.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

The Elderly Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan (1999–2000), a nationwide community‐based survey of people aged 65 and older.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older (N = 1,793; 903 men, 890 women).

Measurements

Chewing ability (satisfactory or unsatisfactory) was assessed using a questionnaire, and dietary quality was assessed using a 24‐hour dietary recall as a dietary diversity score. Data on annual medical use and expenditures from the interview date until December 31, 2006, were collected from National Health Insurance claims. Generalized linear models were used to assess the associations between chewing ability, dietary quality, and annual medical usage or expenditure.

Results

After 8 years of follow‐up, older adults with unsatisfactory chewing ability had considerably higher emergency, hospitalization, and total medical expenditures. Older adults with unsatisfactory chewing ability and a poor diet used fewer annual preventive care and dental services than those with satisfactory chewing ability but had longer hospital stays and higher expenditures. After adjusting for covariates, unsatisfactory chewing ability resulted in significantly longer hospital stays in participants with a poor diet (β = 2.34, 95% confidence interval = 2.02–2.71, P < .001).

Conclusion

Unsatisfactory chewing ability and a less‐diverse diet together are associated with longer hospital stays and higher medical expenditures.
Dopaminergic neuron‐specific deletion of p53 gene is neuroprotective in an experimental Parkinson's disease model
Authors: Qi Xin , Davis Brandon , Chiang Yung‐Hsiao , Filichia Emily , Barnett Austin , Greig Nigel H. , Hoffer Barry , Luo Yu
Published: June 2016

p53, a stress response gene, is involved in diverse cell death pathways and its activation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, whether the neuronal p53 protein plays a direct role in regulating dopaminergic (DA) neuronal cell death is unknown. In this study, in contrast to the global inhibition of p53 function by pharmacological inhibitors and in traditional p53 knock‐out (KO) mice, we examined the effect of DA specific p53 gene deletion in DAT‐p53KO mice. These DAT‐p53KO mice did not exhibit apparent changes in the general structure and neuronal density of DA neurons during late development and in aging. However, in DA‐p53KO mice treated with the neurotoxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), we found that the induction of Bax and p53 up‐regulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA) mRNA and protein levels by MPTP were diminished in both striatum and substantia nigra of these mice. Notably, deletion of the p53 gene in DA neurons significantly reduced dopaminergic neuronal loss in substantia nigra, dopaminergic neuronal terminal loss at striatum and, additionally, decreased motor deficits in mice challenged with MPTP. In contrast, there was no difference in astrogliosis between WT and DAT‐p53KO mice in response to MPTP treatment. These findings demonstrate a specific contribution of p53 activation in DA neuronal cell death by MPTP challenge. Our results further support the role of programmed cell death mediated by p53 in this animal model of PD and identify Bax, BAD and PUMA genes as downstream targets of p53 in modulating DA neuronal death in the in vivo MPTP‐induced PD model.

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We deleted p53 gene in dopaminergic neurons in late developmental stages and found that DA specific p53 deletion is protective in acute MPTP animal model possibly through blocking MPTP‐induced BAX and PUMA up‐regulation. Astrocyte activation measured by GFAP positive cells and GFAP gene up‐regulation in the striatum shows no difference between wt and DA‐p53 ko mice.
Post‐translational protein arginylation in the normal nervous system and in neurodegeneration
Authors: Galiano Mauricio R. , Goitea Victor E. , Hallak Marta E.
Published: June 2016

Post‐translational arginylation of proteins is an important regulator of many physiological pathways in cells. This modification was originally noted in protein degradation during neurodegenerative processes, with an apparently different physiological relevance between central and peripheral nervous system. Subsequent studies have identified a steadily increasing number of proteins and proteolysis‐derived polypeptides as arginyltransferase (ATE1) substrates, including β‐amyloid, α‐synuclein, and TDP43 proteolytic fragments. Arginylation is involved in signaling processes of proteins and polypeptides that are further ubiquitinated and degraded by the proteasome. In addition, it is also implicated in autophagy/lysosomal degradation pathway. Recent studies using mutant mouse strains deficient in ATE1 indicate additional roles of this modification in neuronal physiology. As ATE1 is capable of modifying proteins either at the N‐terminus or middle‐chain acidic residues, determining which proteins function are modulated by arginylation represents a big challenge. Here, we review studies addressing various roles of ATE1 activity in nervous system function, and suggest future research directions that will clarify the role of post‐translational protein arginylation in brain development and various neurological disorders.

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Arginyltransferase (ATE1), the enzyme responsible for post‐translational arginylation, modulates the functions of a wide variety of proteins and polypeptides, and is also involved in the main degradation pathways of intracellular proteins. Regulatory roles of ATE1 have been well defined for certain organs. However, its roles in nervous system development and neurodegenerative processes remain largely unknown, and present exciting opportunities for future research, as discussed in this review.
Neuroendocrine Regulation of Anxiety: Beyond the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis
Authors: Borrow A. P. , Stranahan A. M. , Suchecki D. , Yunes R.
Published: June 2016

The central nervous system regulates and responds to endocrine signals, and this reciprocal relationship determines emotional processing and behavioural anxiety. Although the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis remains the best‐characterised system for this relationship, other steroid and peptide hormones are increasingly recognised for their effects on anxiety‐like behaviour and reward. The present review examines recent developments related to the role of a number of different hormones in anxiety, including pregnane neurosteroids, gut peptides, neuropeptides and hormonal signals derived from fatty acids. Findings from both basic and clinical studies suggest that these alternative systems may complement or occlude stress‐induced changes in anxiety and anxiety‐like behaviour. By broadening the scope of mechanisms for depression and anxiety, it may be possible to develop novel strategies to attenuate stress‐related psychiatric conditions. The targets for these potential therapies, as discussed in this review, encompass multiple circuits and systems, including those outside of theHPAaxis.
Flight feather attachment in rock pigeons (Columba livia): covert feathers and smooth muscle coordinate a morphing wing
Authors: Hieronymus Tobin L.
Published: June 2016

Mechanisms for passively coordinating forelimb movements and flight feather abduction and adduction have been described separately from both in vivo and ex vivo studies. Skeletal coordination has been identified as a way for birds to simplify the neuromotor task of controlling flight stroke, but an understanding of the relationship between skeletal coordination and the coordination of the aerodynamic control surface (the flight feathers) has been slow to materialize. This break between the biomechanical and aerodynamic approaches – between skeletal kinematics and airfoil shape – has hindered the study of dynamic flight behaviors. Here I use dissection and histology to identify previously overlooked interconnections between musculoskeletal elements and flight feathers. Many of these structures are well‐placed to directly link elements of the passive musculoskeletal coordination system with flight feather movements. Small bundles of smooth muscle form prominent connections between upper forearm coverts (deck feathers) and the ulna, as well as the majority of interconnections between major flight feathers of the hand. Abundant smooth muscle may play a role in efficient maintenance of folded wing posture, and may also provide an autonomically regulated means of tuning wing shape and aeroelastic behavior in flight. The pattern of muscular and ligamentous linkages of flight feathers to underlying muscle and bone may provide predictable passive guidance for the shape of the airfoil during flight stroke. The structures described here provide an anatomical touchstone for in vivo experimental tests of wing surface coordination in an extensively researched avian model species.
Income Patterns of Households Including Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities According to Poverty Dynamics
Authors: Park Eun‐Young , Nam Su‐Jung , Park Seung Hee
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this longitudinal study was to closely examine the economic status of households that include individuals with intellectual disabilities in South Korea as well as the factors contributing to their poverty dynamics. The 2008 and 2012 panel data from the Korea Employment Agency for the Disabled were used to determine the income movement, poverty dynamics, and income patterns of families in the sustained nonpoverty and sustained poverty groups. Data from 87 households that include individuals with intellectual disabilities was used for analysis. Income mobility was assessed using a transition matrix between 2008 and 2012, and poverty and nonpoverty were determined based on the absolute poverty standard. Poverty dynamics were classified by the changes in poverty status in 2008 and 2012, including sustained poverty, sustained nonpoverty, poverty exit, and poverty entry. Income patterns were composed of earned income, social insurance, property income, and transfer income. The results showed that 66.7% of the households including individuals with intellectual disabilities showed no movement in income distribution and 82.8% of these families stayed in the lowest income distribution for both periods. The demographic characteristics of education level, multiple disabilities, and change in the number of employed members of the household were related to poverty dynamics. The ratio of earned income in the sustained nonpoverty group was significantly higher than that of the sustained poverty group, whereas the public transfer income ratio was significantly higher than in the sustained‐poverty group in 2008 and 2012. To reduce the prevalence and severity of poverty among households with individuals with intellectual disabilities, opportunities and quality of employment need to be secured, not only for individuals with intellectual disabilities, but also for their supporting family members.
What do we know about Hawaiian ferns and lycophytes?
Authors: Ranker Tom A.
Published: June 2016

The Hawaiian Islands are home to one of the most distinctive fern and lycophyte floras in the world. Of the 144 native fern species, 76% are endemic and, including subspecies and varieties, 84% of the 167 native fern taxa are endemic. There are 15 native lycophyte species, 47% of which are endemic, and 16 taxa, 50% of which are endemic. I review here most of the available literature on Hawaiian ferns and lycophytes. Few species of ferns or lycophytes have been studied in any kind of detail and, for most, we only know basic classification and general ecological information. Although the total number of studies reviewed here is not large, research has been conducted on a wide range of topics including systematics, floristics, dispersal, phylogeny, biogeography, ecology, form and function, population genetics, microevolution, fern‐animal and fern‐fungi associations, reproductive biology, demography, ethnobotany, and conservation.
Association of 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding with higher fat‐free mass in infants in a low‐resource setting with high HIV prevalence in South Africa
Authors: Mulol Helen , Coutsoudis Anna
Published: June 2016

Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for optimal health and growth of infants, but it is not a common practice in South Africa. A breastfeeding counselling programme was run to inform, encourage and support mothers to exclusively breastfeed their infants for 6 months, and mother–infant pairs were invited to participate in a research project to determine breast milk intake volumes using the dose‐to‐mother deuterium dilution stable isotope technique. This technique yields objective measurements of breast milk intake volumes and also enables determination of exclusivity of breastfeeding, which is most frequently determined by maternal recall and can be subject to bias. Exclusivity of breastfeeding at 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months following birth of the infants was correlated with infant fat‐free mass at 12 months, which was determined by the dose‐to‐infant deuterium dilution stable isotope technique. Results showed that infants who were exclusively breastfed for 6 months had a higher per cent fat‐free mass at 12 months compared with infants who were not exclusively breastfed for 6 months (P < 0.05). This objective determination of both breastfeeding patterns and infant body composition gives weight to the WHO recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months as it demonstrated adequate fat‐free mass in infants at 12 months, even in an area with high HIV prevalence. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Efficacy and Safety of Once‐Daily Extended‐Release (ER) Hydrocodone in Individuals Previously Receiving ER Morphine for Chronic Pain
Authors: Broglio Kathleen , Pergolizzi Joseph , Kowalski Maribeth , Lynch Shau Yu , He Ellie , Wen Warren
Published: June 2016

Objectives

This post hoc analysis examined the effectiveness and safety of hydrocodone bitartrate (HYD) in patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic pain who were previously taking extended‐release morphine (morphine ER) for pain management.

Study Design

The primary analysis was an open‐label, 12‐month study.

Setting

The study was conducted in 88 sites in the United States.

Methods

The study was approved by an institutional review board. Eligible patients were enrolled and titrated to a once‐daily dose of HYD 20, 40, 60, 80, or 120 mg for a 45‐day period. The subgroup of patients in this report was using morphine ER prior to study entry. After achieving a stable HYD daily dose, patients entered a 12‐month maintenance period during which additional dose adjustment could be made and nonopioid or short‐acting opioid medications could be received. Average pain over the last 24 hours was recorded daily (on a scale of 0 to 10) Patients completed the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) short form, which assessed pain severity and the interference of pain in daily life, every 4 weeks during the maintenance period. Safety was assessed routinely.

Results

Of the 26 patients who switched from morphine ER to HYD, 19 entered the maintenance period. At study entry, mean “average pain over the last 24 hours” was scored as 5.21. This was reduced to 3.90 by the time patients entered the maintenance phase; this level of pain control was maintained over the 12‐month period, with 16 patients requiring no further HYD dose adjustment. BPI scores decreased for both pain severity and pain interference during the maintenance period. HYD was well tolerated.

Conclusions

The results of this subgroup analysis suggest that rotation from morphine ER to once‐daily HYD in patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic pain maintains or improves pain relief and does not increase safety concerns.
Diagnosis and treatment of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Sakashita Kazuo , Matsuda Kazuyuki , Koike Kenichi
Published: June 2016

Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) is a rare myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative disorder that occurs during infancy and early childhood; this disorder is characterized by hypersensitivity of the myeloid progenitor cells to granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor in vitro. JMML usually involves somatic and/or germline mutations in the genes of the RAS pathway, including PTPN11, NRAS, KRAS, NF1, and CBL, in the leukemic cells. Almost all patients with JMML experience an aggressive clinical course, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is the only curative treatment. A certain proportion of patients with somatic NRAS and germline mutations in CBL, however, have spontaneous resolution. A suitable treatment after diagnosis and conditioning regimen prior to HSCT are yet to be determined, but several clinical trials have been initiated throughout the world to develop suitable pre‐ or post‐allogeneic HSCT treatments and new targeted therapies that are less toxic, to improve patient outcome.
Reduced Levels of Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases in UVB‐Irradiated Corneal Epithelium
Authors: Ardan Taras , Němcová Lucie , Bohuslavová Božena , Klezlová Adéla , Popelka Štěpán , Studenovská Hana , Hrnčiarová Eva , Čejková Jitka , Motlík Jan
Published: June 2016

Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are the major endogenous regulators of metalloproteinase activity in tissues. TIMPs are able to inhibit activity of all known matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and thus participate in controlling extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation. We showed previously elevated expressions of MMPs in the rabbit corneal epithelium upon UVB exposure and suggested that these enzymes might be involved in corneal destruction caused by excessive proteolysis. The aim of this study was to investigate TIMPs in the corneal epithelium after UV irradiation using immunohistochemical and biochemical methods. We found that as compared to control rabbit corneas where relatively high levels of TIMPs were present in the epithelium, repeated irradiation of the cornea with UVB rays (not with UVA rays of similar doses) significantly decreased TIMPs in corneal epithelial cells. The results of this study point to the suggestion that the decrease in TIMPs in the corneal epithelium after UVB irradiation contributes to increased proteolytic activity of MMPs in UVB‐irradiated corneal epithelium found previously.
A Review of Operational Issues in Managing Physical Currency Supply Chains
Authors: Geismar H. Neil , Sriskandarajah Chelliah , Zhu Yunxia
Published: June 2016

Even though more and more transactions and payments are conducted electronically, physical currency (banknotes and coins) still plays an essential role in commerce and trade, and it is expected to maintain its dominance in the near future. Over the past decade, several studies have analyzed various currency supply chains across the world. This study provides an overview of this research. The structure of a general banknote supply chain is given before the discussion of the problems from three different perspectives: (i) the supply side, that is, the parties who are in charge of supplying currency in the supply chain; (ii) the demand side, that is, the parties who request the currency; and (iii) the secure third‐party logistics providers. We also provide a framework for analyzing the US coin supply chain and descriptions of the coin supply chains in other countries. Future research directions are proposed based on the research work carried out so far and for the field in general.
South American fish for continental aquaculture
Authors: Valladão Gustavo Moraes Ramos , Gallani Sílvia Umeda , Pilarski Fabiana
Published: June 2016

The South American continent is known for its high production and exports in fisheries and aquaculture, but has not reached its full potential in fish farming. The latest data on fish production in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela were explored in this review. Aspects of biology, production, market and health of the species most produced in South America are described in detail. These species include the round fish (Colossomaspp.,Piaractusspp. and hybrids) and catfish (Pseudoplatystomaspp. and hybrids), in addition to the promising pirarucuArapaima gigas, yellowtail tetraAstyanax altiparanaeand silver catfishRhamdia quelen. Among the countries mentioned, Chile and Brazil are two of the largest intensive fish producers in the world. Chile relies primarily on marine fish, whereas Brazil is prominent for continental production. Special emphasis is given to the black pacuColossoma macropomumbecause it is a commonly farmed fish in South American countries and offers several desirable productive characteristics (domesticated, omnivorous and easy to reproduce). Furthermore, this fish has the greatest potential to compete economically with tilapia production in South America. The production of native fish is currently overtaking the production of exotic species in some countries, which is considered a milestone for South American aquaculture. Regarding diseases, the main pathogens are similar to those observed throughout the world, such asIchthyophthirius multifiliis, different species of monogeneans and trichodinids, and the bacteriaAeromonas hydrophila. Local pathogens, such as the parasitesPerulernaea gamitanaeandGoezia spinulosa, are also concerning.
Aetiology of bronchiectasis in adults: A systematic literature review
Authors: Gao Yong‐hua , Guan Wei‐jie , Liu Shao‐xia , Wang Lei , Cui Juan‐juan , Chen Rong‐chang , Zhang Guo‐jun
Published: June 2016

While identifying the underlying aetiology is a key part of bronchiectasis management, the prevalence and impact of identifying the aetiologies on clinical management remain unclear. We aimed to determine the etiological spectrum of bronchiectasis, and how often etiological assessment could lead to the changes in patients' management. A comprehensive search was conducted using MEDLINE (via PubMed) and EMBASE for observational studies published before October 2015 reporting aetiologies in adults with bronchiectasis. Of the 8216 citations identified, 56 studies including 8608 adults with bronchiectasis were relevant for this systematic review. The crude prevalence for the identified aetiologies ranged from 18% to 95%, which possibly resulted from the differences in the geographic regions and diagnostic workup. Post‐infective (29.9%), immunodeficiency (5%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (3.9%), connective tissue disease (3.8%), ciliary dysfunction (2.5%), allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (2.6%) were the most common aetiologies. In 1577 patients (18.3%), identifying the aetiologies led to changes in patient's management. Aetiologies varied considerably among different geographic regions (P < 0.001). Intensive investigations of these aetiologies might help change patient's management and therefore should be incorporated into routine clinical practice.
‘His wel beloved doughter Lady Mary’: representing Mary Tudor in 1534
Authors: Hamrick Stephen
Published: June 2016

Giles Duwes's An Introductorie for to Learn to Read, to Pronounce, and to Speak French and John Heywood's ‘Geve Place, ye Ladyes’ (both 1534) initially seem insignificant publishing events. Serving, however, as both public counsel and as strategic negotiations of royal authority, these texts actively competed in a public sphere growing in the 1530s. Hoping to control royal representations in that public sphere, the Treasons Act of 1534 made it a capital offence to question Henry's authority or his decisions. Writing in this dangerous political moment, servants of the Crown, Duwes and Heywood, carefully enter the public debate on Henry's religio‐legal authority and his divorce, significantly recasting the political identity of Mary. Rather than effectively marginalized or silenced, Mary emerges in 1534 as a gifted royal princess dedicated to God, to family, and to protecting her royal image. Such a strong image, moreover, circulated effectively despite the Crown's efforts to demote the popular princess to simply ‘Lady Mary’, the ‘King's daughter’. As respected members of the contemporary ‘publics’ or public sphere, Duwes and Heywood reject that demotion, countering the king's propaganda as they work to bolster Mary's royal agency in a then‐fading culture of counsel.
China's Gains from WTO Accession: Imports vs Exports
Authors: Lai Ting‐Wei , Riezman Raymond , Wang Ping
Published: June 2016

We examine the gains from Chinese accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). We provide a new quantitative welfare measure by dividing the manufacturing sector into import and export sub‐sectors. We then evaluate how the increased openness caused by China's accession to the WTO effects the importing and exporting sectors. We find surprisingly that the gains to the import sector are larger than the gains to the export sector. Moreover, the size and the dynamic pattern of such gains are different across sectors. Overall, sectors with larger intermediate input shares from import‐competing industries and with domestic demands less sensitive to changes in trade costs have higher welfare gains from trade liberalization.
Where do Trypanosoma cruzi go? The distribution of parasites in blood components from fractionated infected whole blood
Authors: Cancino‐Faure Beatriz , Fisa Roser , Riera Cristina , Girona‐Llobera Enrique , Jimenez‐Marco Teresa
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND

Platelets (PLTs) are the blood component most frequently involved in Trypanosoma cruzi transfusion transmission cases reported in the literature, although whole blood (WB) and red blood cells (RBCs) have also been incriminated. However, there is little knowledge of the parasite distribution among blood components.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The aim of this study was to investigate in which blood component T. cruzi parasites concentrate the most, after fractionating artificially T. cruzi‐infected WB. The T. cruzi parasite load was studied by a specific quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in WB, buffy coat (BC), PLT concentrates, RBCs before and after leukoreduction, and plasma (PL).

RESULTS

The parasite load in WB experimentally infected with 1.5 × 106 parasites (2.78 × 103 parasite equivalents/mL) was unevenly distributed among the separated blood components. The highest level was found in the BC (6.94 × 103 parasite equivalents/mL) and RBCs before leukoreduction by filtration (2.51 × 103 parasite equivalents/mL), after which RBCs presented a 99.9% reduction in parasite levels. Both PL and PLTs, partially leukoreduced by centrifugation but nonfiltered, had low parasite levels, the lowest concentration being in PL.

CONCLUSIONS

The highest parasite concentration was detected in the BC, followed by RBCs before leukoreduction. There is a notable risk of transfusion‐transmitted Chagas disease associated with nonleukoreduced RBCs. Leukoreduction may be an effective prevention strategy for transfusion‐transmitted T. cruzi infection, especially in endemic countries and in nonendemic countries with a high rate of immigration from Latin America.
Acute patellofemoral instability in children and adolescents
Authors: Antinolfi Pierluigi , Bartoli Matteo , Placella Giacomo , Speziali Andrea , Pace Valerio , Delcogliano Marco , Mazzola Claudio
Published: June 2016

Patellofemoral problems are considered to be among the most frequent causes of knee pain in children and adolescents. Correcting bone abnormalities through specific and targeted interventions is mandatory in skeletally immature patients. Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is the preferred procedure, but there are several important precautionary considerations that the surgeon must take into account. it must always be remembered that MPFL rupture is the result, not the cause, of an altered extensor mechanism; therefore, patellar stabilization with MPFL reconstruction is only the first step to be accomplished in the management of an MPFL rupture. If other anatomical alterations are encountered, alternative/additional surgical procedures should be considered. If MPFL rupture occurs without associated anatomical or functional knee alterations, an ap propriate rehabilitation program after MPFL reconstruction should be sufficient to achieve a good outcome.

In conclusion, an acute patellar dislocation should be managed conservatively unless there is evidence of osteochondral damage or medial retinaculum lesions. Osseous procedures are contraindicated in children, while MPFL anatomical reconstruction with “physeal sparing” is the primary surgical option.
Two cases of chronic knee pain caused by unusual injuries to the popliteus tendon
Authors: Davalos Eric , Barank David , Varma Rajeev
Published: June 2016

Injuries to the popliteus tendon are less frequent than injuries to the menisci or ligamentous structures of the knee. When they do occur, injuries to the popliteus tendon tend to be the result of trauma and associated with injuries to other components of the knee. The most commonly seen injuries include tears at the musculotendinous junction and avulsion tears at the lateral femoral condyle insertion site. This report presents two unusual injuries of the popliteus tendon in pa tients with chronic knee pain: an isolated split tear of the tendon and a subluxed tendon residing within the lateral joint space.
Effects of Decay Heat Distribution on Water Temperature in a Spent
Fuel Pit and Prediction Errors With a One-Region Model
Authors: Yanagi Chihiro , Murase Michio , Utanohara Yoichi
Published: June 2016

A prediction system with a one-region (1R) model was developed to predict water temperature in a spent fuel pit (SFP) after the shutdown of its cooling systems based on three-dimensional (3D) thermal-hydraulic behavior computed by using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, FLUENT 6.3.26. The system was later extended to compute the water level in the SFP during the loss of all AC power supplies. This study aimed at confirming the applicability of the 1R model by the comparison of 3D computation results and 1R calculation results. Some of the effects that influence the SFP water temperature increase are decay heat and its distribution. Also, decay heat decreases with time, so for low decay heat, natural circulation force in the SFP becomes weak and the effect of heat loss to air for the water temperature increase will be relatively bigger than that for high decay heat. Therefore, in this study, the 3D computations with FLUENT 15.0 were done for four typical patterns of decay heat distribution and for three decay heat values (10, 5, and 1-MW). The computational results were compared to each other and evaluated. It was found that the effects of decay heat distribution were small on water temperature calculations, and the 1R model for SFP water was applicable to the prediction of SFP water temperature during the loss of all AC power supplies without consideration of the decay heat distribution.
Thin-Film Gauges Using Carbon Nanotubes as Composite Layers
Authors: Sarma Shrutidhara , Sahoo Niranjan , Unal Aynur
Published: June 2016

Measurement of transient temperature and heat flux has attained enormous importance with the recent advancement in technology. Certain situations demand transient measurements to be performed for extremely short durations (approximately few seconds) which in turn call for sensors capable of responding within microseconds or even less. Thin-film gauges (TFGs), a particular class of resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), are such kind of sensors which are suitable for above requirements due to their quick and precise measurements in transient environments. The present work aims at designing an in-house fabrication and calibration of fast response TFG prepared by depositing nanocarbon layer on silver films as a laminated composite topping to enhance thermal and electrical properties. A significant improvement in the thermal and electrical conductivity of the composite sensor is observed when compared to gauges made from pure metals.
Effect of Laser Transformation Hardening on the Accuracy of SPIF Formed Parts
Authors: Mohammadi Amirahmad , Vanhove Hans , Van Bael Albert , Seefeldt Marc , Duflou Joost R.
Published: June 2016

This study examines the possibility of applying lasers for the formation of laser-affected bands in hardenable steel sheets, with a specific focus on how the formation of these hardened bands can improve the accuracy of the single point incremental forming process (SPIF). For this purpose, the process parameters for the hardening process have been chosen using finite-element (FE) modeling. The results of the modeling have been validated by temperature field measurements obtained from IR camera observations. The microstructural analysis of the laser-affected zones has been performed using optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These investigations confirm a phase transformation to a martensitic structure during laser scanning, and microhardness (HV0·1) results show a hardness increase by a factor of about three in the laser-affected region in comparison to that of the base metal (BM). Finally, using a laser assisted single point incremental forming (LASPIF) setup, hardened bands have been generated for preprocessing and intermediate processing during the different phases of a SPIF procedure. Geometric accuracy studies show that appropriate use of hard martensitic bands can increase the process accuracy through significantly reduction of an unwanted sheet deformation, and has the potential to eliminate the need for a backing plate.
Feedrate Optimization for Computer Numerically Controlled Machine Tools Using Modeled and Measured Process Constraints
Authors: Mansour Sepehr Zarif , Seethaler Rudolf
Published: June 2016

Feedrate optimization for computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools is a challenging task that is growing in importance as manufacturing industry demands faster machine tools. The majority of research in this area focusses on optimizing feedrate using modeled process constraints. Some researchers have suggested using measured process parameters instead. The former approach suffers from uncertainties in the modeled process data that is the starting point of the optimization. The latter approach has difficulties achieving high levels of optimality. This study proposes the combination of both modeled and measured process data. To this end, a control architecture is described that allows combining measured and modeled process constraints. Within this architecture, a new algorithm to determine time optimum feedrates using modeled velocity and acceleration constraints is proposed. The new control structure including the novel feedrate optimization algorithm is verified experimentally on a high speed biaxial table.
Investigation of the Pore-Water Pressure of Saturated Warm Frozen Soils Under a Constant Load
Authors: Zhang Hu , Zhang Jianming , Zhang Zhilong , Chai Mingtang
Published: June 2016

A series of compression experiments was conducted to observe the pore-water pressure variations of saturated warm frozen soils over time. The results indicate that saturated warm frozen soils can exhibit excess pore-water pressure when subjected to external loads. The pore-water pressure fluctuates rather than varying monotonically, and it gradually increases with increasing compressive deformation as the pores are compressed. Furthermore, the permeability of the soil allows pressure dissipation. Thus, the pore-water pressure is continuously changing because of the interactions between these two opposing processes. The peak pore-water pressure follows an exponential relationship with the soil temperature and decreases to a steady value as the temperature decreases. A dissipation trend is observed after the peak pressure is reached. This trend reflects the influence of consolidation in the deformation of warm frozen soils. As the temperature increases, the role of the consolidation becomes more significant.
PVCO Pipeline Performance Under Large Ground Deformation
Authors: Wham Brad P. , Argyrou Christina , O'Rourke Thomas D. , Stewart Harry E. , Bond Timothy K.
Published: June 2016

Technological advances have improved pipeline capacity to accommodate large ground deformation associated with earthquakes, floods, landslides, tunneling, deep excavations, mining, and subsidence. The fabrication of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) piping, for example, can be modified by expanding PVC pipe stock to approximately twice its original diameter, thus causing PVC molecular chains to realign in the circumferential direction. This process yields biaxially oriented polyvinyl chloride (PVCO) pipe with increased circumferential strength, reduced pipe wall thickness, and enhanced cross-sectional flexibility. This paper reports on experiments performed at the Cornell University Large-Scale Lifelines Testing Facility characterizing PVCO pipeline performance in response to large ground deformation. The evaluation was performed on 150-mm (6-in.)-diameter PVCO pipelines with bell-and-spigot joints. The testing procedure included determination of fundamental PVCO material properties, axial joint tension and compression tests, four-point bending tests, and a full-scale fault rupture simulation. The test results show that the performance of segmental PVCO pipelines under large ground deformation is strongly influenced by the axial pullout and compressive load capacity of the joints, as well as their ability to accommodate deflection and joint rotation. The PVCO pipeline performance is quantified in terms of its capacity to accommodate horizontal ground strain, and compared with a statistical characterization of lateral ground strains caused by soil liquefaction during the Canterbury earthquake sequence in New Zealand.
High-Temperature Creep Property of High-Cr Ferritic Heat-Resisting Steel Identified by Indentation Test
Authors: Arai Masayuki
Published: June 2016

In this paper, the procedure which can estimate creep exponent and coefficient in Norton's law of the miniature sample from the impression size rather than the penetration depth is discussed based upon a high-temperature creep indentation test. First, an analytical solution related to the change in the impression size with dwelling time at an indentation load is solved by using a well-known problem of infinite creeping media embedding spherical cavity subjected to an inner pressure which characterizes an indentation load. The applicability of the formula to elastic–plastic-creeping model resembling an actual response is checked by conducting a nonlinear finite-element analysis combined with contact option. Finally, creep indentation tests are conducted for a high-Cr ferritic heat-resisting steel, grade 122. It is shown that the creep parameters at a lower stress level can be estimated at temperature 873 K.
Asymptotic Stability With Probability One of Random-Time-Delay-Controlled Quasi-Integrable Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Huan R. H. , Zhu W. Q. , Hu R. C. , Ying Z. G.
Published: June 2016

A new procedure for determining the asymptotic stability with probability one of random-time-delay-controlled quasi-integrable Hamiltonian systems is proposed. Such a system is formulated as continuous–discrete hybrid system and the random time delay is modeled as a Markov jump process. A three-step approximation is taken to simplify such hybrid system: (i) the randomly periodic approximate solution property of the system is used to convert the random time delay control into the control without time delay but with delay time as parameter; (ii) a limit theorem is used to transform the hybrid system with Markov jump parameter into one without jump parameter; and (iii) the stochastic averaging method for quasi-integrable Hamiltonian systems is applied to reduce the system into a set of averaged Itô stochastic differential equations. An approximate expression for the largest Lyapunov exponent of the system is derived from the linearized averaged Itô equations and the necessary and sufficient condition for the asymptotic stability with probability one of the system is obtained. The application and effectiveness of the proposed procedure are demonstrated by using an example of stochastically driven two-degrees-of-freedom networked control system (NCS) with random time delay.
A Wireless Human Motion Monitoring System for Smart Rehabilitation
Authors: Zhang Wenlong , Tomizuka Masayoshi , Byl Nancy
Published: June 2016

In this paper, a wireless human motion monitoring system is presented for gait analysis and visual feedback in rehabilitation training. The system consists of several inertial sensors and a pair of smart shoes with pressure sensors. The inertial sensors can capture lower-extremity joint rotations in three dimensions and the smart shoes can measure the force distributions on the two feet during walking. Based on the raw measurement data, gait phases, step lengths, and center of pressure (CoP) are calculated to evaluate the abnormal walking behaviors. User interfaces are developed on both laptops and mobile devices to provide visual feedback to patients and physical therapists. The system has been tested on healthy subjects and then applied in a clinical study with 24 patients. It has been verified that the patients are able to understand the intuitive visual feedback from the system, and similar training performance has been achieved compared to the traditional gait training with physical therapists. The experimental results with one healthy subject, one stroke patient, and one Parkinson's disease patient are compared to demonstrate the performance of the system.
Unphysical consequences of negative absorbed power in linear passive scattering: Implications for radiation force and torque
Authors: Marston Philip L. , Zhang Likun
Published: June 2016

Contrary to some claims, the absorbed power associated with linear scattering of sound by passive objects in ideal fluids must be non-negative. Such unphysical claims suggest analytical or computational error, or use of an unphysical constitutive relation for material properties. The close connection with the evaluation of acoustic radiation force on targets according to Westervelt's formulation [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 29, 26–29 (1957)], recently generalized to certain acoustic beams, is briefly reviewed along with the theory of acoustic radiation torque on axisymmetric targets with power absorption. Applications to viscous dissipation and to issues pertaining to active targets are also examined.
Identification and Analysis of a Novel Group of Bacteriophages Infecting the Lactic Acid Bacterium Streptococcus thermophilus
Authors: McDonnell Brian , Mahony Jennifer , Neve Horst , Hanemaaijer Laurens , Noben Jean-Paul , Kouwen Thijs , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: June 2016

We present the complete genome sequences of four members of a novel group of phages infecting
Streptococcus thermophilus
, designated here as the 987 group. Members of this phage group appear to have resulted from genetic exchange events, as evidenced by their “hybrid” genomic architecture, exhibiting DNA sequence relatedness to the morphogenesis modules of certain P335 group
Lactococcus lactis
phages and to the replication modules of
S. thermophilus
phages. All four identified members of the 987 phage group were shown to elicit adsorption affinity to both their cognate
S. thermophilus
hosts and a particular
L. lactis
starter strain. The receptor binding protein of one of these phages (as a representative of this novel group) was defined using an adsorption inhibition assay. The emergence of a novel phage group infecting
S. thermophilus
highlights the continuous need for phage monitoring and development of new phage control measures.

IMPORTANCE
Phage predation of
S. thermophilus
is an important issue for the dairy industry, where viral contamination can lead to fermentation inefficiency or complete fermentation failure. Genome information and phage-host interaction studies of
S. thermophilus
phages, particularly those emerging in the marketplace, are an important part of limiting the detrimental impact of these viruses in the dairy environment.