bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Association of MPPED2 and ACTN2 with Dental Caries
Authors: Stanley B.O.C. , Feingold E. , Cooper M. , Vanyukov M.M. , Maher B.S. , Slayton R.L. , Willing M.C. , Reis S.E. , McNeil D.W. , Crout R.J. , Weyant R.J. , Levy S.M. , Vieira A.R. , Marazita M.L. , Shaffer J.R.
Published: May 2014

The first genome-wide association study of dental caries focused on primary teeth in children aged 3 to 12 yr and nominated several novel genes: ACTN2, EDARADD, EPHA7, LPO, MPPED2, MTR, and ZMPSTE24. Here we interrogated 156 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within these candidate genes for evidence of association with dental caries experience in 13 race- and age-stratified samples from 6 independent studies ( n = 3600). Analysis was performed separately for each sample, and results were combined across samples via meta-analysis. MPPED2 was significantly associated with caries via meta-analysis across the 5 childhood samples, with 4 SNPs showing significant associations after gene-wise adjustment for multiple comparisons ( p < .0026). These results corroborate the previous genome-wide association study, although the functional role of MPPED2 in caries etiology remains unknown. ACTN2 also showed significant association via meta-analysis across childhood samples ( p = .0014). Moreover, in adults, genetic association was observed for ACTN2 SNPs in individual samples ( p < .0025), but no single SNP was significant via meta-analysis across all 8 adult samples. Given its compelling biological role in organizing ameloblasts during amelogenesis, this study strengthens the hypothesis that ACTN2 influences caries risk. Results for the other candidate genes neither proved nor precluded their associations with dental caries.
Whole Body Vibration Reduces Inflammatory Bone Loss in a Lipopolysaccharide Murine Model
Authors: Kim I.S. , Lee B. , Yoo S.J. , Hwang S.J.
Published: May 2014

Whole body vibration (WBV) stimulation has a beneficial effect on the recovery of osteoporotic bone. We aimed to investigate the immediate effect of WBV on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–mediated inflammatory bone loss by varying the exposure timing. Balb/C mice were divided into the following groups: control, LPS (L), and LPS with vibration (LV). The L and LV groups received LPS (5 mg/kg) by 2 intraperitoneal injections on days 0 and 4. The LV group was exposed to WBV (0.4 g, 45 Hz) either during LPS treatment (LV1) or after cessation of LPS injection (LV2) and then continued WBV treatment for 10 min/d for 3 d. Evaluation based on micro–computed tomography was performed 7 d after the first injection, when the L group showed a significant decrease in bone volume (−25.8%) and bone mineral density (−33.5%) compared with the control group. The LV2 group recovered bone volume (35%) and bone mineral density (19.9%) compared with the L group, whereas the LV1 group showed no improvement. This vibratory signal showed a suppressive effect on the LPS-mediated induction of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β or TNF-α in human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. These findings suggest that immediate exposure to WBV after the conclusion of LPS treatment efficiently reduces trabecular bone loss, but WBV might be less effective during the course of treatment with inflammatory factor.
Enzymatic maceration of bone: a gentler technique than boiling
Authors: Uhre Marie-Louise , Eriksen Anne Marie , Simonsen Kim Pilkjær , Rasmussen Arne Redsted , Hjort Benjamin Benn , Lynnerup Niels
Published: May 2014

This proof of concept study investigates the removal of soft tissue from human ribs with the use of two common methods: boiling with a laundry detergent and using enzymes. Six individuals were autopsied, and one rib from each individual was removed for testing. Each rib was cut into pieces and afterwards macerated by one of the two methods. DNA extraction was performed to see the effect of the macerations on DNA preservation. Furthermore, the bone pieces were examined in a stereomicroscope to assess for any bone damage. The results demonstrated that both methods removed all flesh/soft tissue from the bones. The DNA analysis showed that DNA was preserved on all the pieces of bones which were examined. Finally, the investigation suggests that enzyme maceration could be gentler on the bones, as the edges appeared less frayed. The enzyme maceration was also a quicker method; it took three hours compared with the traditional method which took about 24 hours. However, a more standardised study should be performed to confirm this.
Studying religion and community: A critical perspective
Authors: Kühle Lene
Published: May 2014

This article is a commentary on a keynote lecture by Kimmo Ketola, Tuomas Martikainen and Hanna Salomäki at the 32nd ISSR Conference in 2013. The author presents three critical questions about ways of defining, measuring and interpreting the changes in the notion of ‘community’ that are occurring in the contemporary world.
New communities of worship: Continuities and mutations among religious organizations in Finland
Authors: Ketola Kimmo , Martikainen Tuomas , Salomäki Hanna
Published: May 2014

The authors provide a summary of three key developments that have brought change to the field of religious organizations in Finland: the emergence of new Lutheran communities (the St Thomas Mass, the so-called Nokia Revival and the fundamentalist Luther Foundation Finland); Ashtanga yoga as a form of spirituality; and the spread of migrant religious communities. The article sets these developments in the context of late modern communal belonging and discusses how religious communities have been transforming over the last two to three decades in Finland.
Heart Rate Variability as a Correlate of Trauma Symptom Expression, Psychological Well-Being, and Emotion Regulation in African Americans With Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Utsey Shawn O. , Abrams Jasmine A. , Hess David W. , McKinley William
Published: May 2014

This study examined the relationship between heart rate variability, trauma symptom expression, and psychological distress in a sample ( N = 28) of African Americans with traumatic spinal cord injury. Participants’ heart rate (R-R interval) was recorded at baseline, during a mental arithmetic task, and then again at recovery. Heart rate variability was indexed as the root mean square of successive difference (rMSSD) of participants’ R-R interval. Following this procedure, participants were administered a battery of surveys to assess levels of trauma and psychological distress. Findings indicated that there was a statistically significant relationship between heart rate variability, trauma symptoms, and psychological distress. Implications of the study’s findings are discussed in the context of future research and clinical interventions.
Factors related to thrombosis of gastric varix during balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration
Authors: Yoshimatsu Rika , Yamagami Takuji , Miura Hiroshi , Hashiba Mitsuoki
Published: May 2014

Background

Balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (B-RTO) has become known as an effective treatment for gastric varices with a gastrorenal shunt. However, the appropriate duration to maintain inflation of the catheter balloon for sufficient thrombosis has been unknown.

Purpose

To evaluate retrospectively the factors related to the development of thrombus in gastric varices by evaluating the necessity of the addition of a sclerosing agent on the second day in overnight B-RTO.

Material and Methods

Sixty-five patients who underwent B-RTO for gastric varices with a gastrorenal shunt were studied. The B-RTO catheter was retained overnight in all patients. Incidence of and factors influencing the necessity of additional injections of a sclerosing agent on the second day were investigated.

Results

In all 65 patients (100%), B-RTO was technically successful and in 61 patients (93.8%) complete thrombosis of the gastric varices was achieved. In 46 of the 65 patients (70.8%), the sclerosing agent was added on the second day. Higher Child-Pugh score, in particular, lower serum albumin level, and higher prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR) were significantly associated with the need for the addition of the sclerosing agent on the second day. Optimal cut-off values for the serum albumin level and PT-INR were 3.6 g/dL and 1.13, respectively.

Conclusion

Liver function might influence the development of thrombosis of gastric varices in B-RTO. Serum albumin and PT-INR levels would provide information for deciding on the duration of retention of the B-RTO catheter to obtain sufficient therapeutic effectiveness.
Perception of melodic intonation in performances with and without vibrato
Authors: Geringer John M. , MacLeod Rebecca B. , Madsen Clifford K. , Napoles Jessica
Published: May 2014

We compared perception of mistuned intervals in unaccompanied melodies performed by trumpet, violin, and voice, and examined whether there were differences between the three timbres in performances with and without vibrato. Participants were 144 university music students. Listeners heard the three unaccompanied solo performers in two vibrato conditions (with and without vibrato), and three intonation conditions (selected melodic intervals were in tune, sharp 25 cents, or flat 25 cents relative to equal temperament). All three stimuli were perceived as more out of tune when there was no vibrato compared to vibrato. In performances without vibrato, violin was judged as more out of tune than voice and trumpet across all three tuning conditions. Melodies performed with vibrato were judged differently: Violin was judged as least in tune for intervals mistuned in the flat direction, trumpet was heard as least in tune for intervals mistuned sharp, and voice was judged least in tune when intervals were in tune (relative to equal temperament). Differences in perception between timbres may be influenced by characteristics of the vibrato itself such as modulation width, rate, and type.
How scientists may ‘benefit from the mess’: A resource dependence perspective on individual organizing in contemporary science
Authors: Hallonsten Olof
Published: May 2014

There is general consensus in the study of science, and especially research policy studies, that a wave of profound change has struck academic science in the past decades. Central parts of this change are increased competition, growing demands of relevance and excellence, and managerialism reforms in institutions and policy systems. The underpinning thesis of this article is that, if seen from the perspective of individual scientists, these changes are exogenous and lead to greater environmental complexity and uncertainty, which in turn induces or forces individuals towards strategic planning and organizing in order to maintain control over their own research programs. Recent empirical studies have made various worthy contributions to the understanding of the macro-level (institutions, policy and funding systems, and broader epistemic developments) and the micro-level (individual and group behavior) developments of the social system of science, but there is a lack of comprehensive conceptual tools for analysis of change and its effect on individual scientists. This article takes the first steps towards developing a conceptual scheme for use in empirical studies of the (strategic) response of individual scientists to exogenous change, based on an adaptation of Resource Dependence Theory (RDT). The intended theoretical contribution builds on conceptualization of the individual researcher as crucially able to act rationally and strategically in the face of potentially conflicting demands from a growingly unpredictable environment. Defining a basic framework for a broad future research program, the article adds to the knowledge about the recent changes to the academic research system and calls for renewed interest in organizing in science and an analysis of the complex social system of science from the perspective of its smallest performing units: individuals.
Community-Based Advocacy at the Intersection of Public Health and Transportation
Authors: McAndrews Carolyn , Marcus Justine
Published: May 2014

Integrating public health concerns into transportation policy agendas involves addressing the negative impacts of traffic on neighboring communities. Through interviews, focus groups, and participatory photo-mapping, we studied one community that advocated to improve community health through the design and reconstruction of an arterial road in their neighborhood. The transportation planning process provided an opportunity for neighbors’ participation, but it prioritized solving regional transportation problems instead of local impacts. The uneven adoption of public health concerns in this case was related to the constraints of regional planning and governance. Integrating health and transportation issues locally requires action at multiple scales.
Overview of Pediatric Peripheral Facial Nerve Paralysis
Authors: Özkale Yasemin , Erol İlknur , Saygı Semra , Yılmaz İsmail
Published: May 2014

Peripheral facial nerve paralysis in children might be an alarming sign of serious disease such as malignancy, systemic disease, congenital anomalies, trauma, infection, middle ear surgery, and hypertension. The cases of 40 consecutive children and adolescents who were diagnosed with peripheral facial nerve paralysis at Baskent University Adana Hospital Pediatrics and Pediatric Neurology Unit between January 2010 and January 2013 were retrospectively evaluated. We determined that the most common cause was Bell palsy, followed by infection, tumor lesion, and suspected chemotherapy toxicity. We noted that younger patients had generally poorer outcome than older patients regardless of disease etiology. Peripheral facial nerve paralysis has been reported in many countries in America and Europe; however, knowledge about its clinical features, microbiology, neuroimaging, and treatment in Turkey is incomplete. The present study demonstrated that Bell palsy and infection were the most common etiologies of peripheral facial nerve paralysis.
Classification in Childhood Disability
Authors: Rosenbaum Peter , Eliasson Ann-Christin , Hidecker Mary Jo Cooley , Palisano Robert J.
Published: May 2014

Classification systems in health care are usually based on current understanding of the condition. They are often derived empirically and adopted applying sound principles of measurement science to assess whether they are reliable (consistent) and valid (true) for the purposes to which they are applied. In the past 15 years, the authors have developed and validated classification systems for specific aspects of everyday function in people with cerebral palsy—gross motor function, manual abilities, and communicative function. This article describes the approaches used to conceptualize each aspect of function, develop the tools, and assess their reliability and validity. We report on the utility of each system with respect to clinical applicability, use of these tools for research, and the uptake and impact that they have had around the world. We hope that readers will find these accounts interesting, relevant, and applicable to their daily work with children and youth with disabilities.
The Ethics Writings of Roger A. Brumback, MD
Authors: Weisleder Pedro
Published: May 2014

Roger A. Brumback, MD (1953-2013), a renaissance man, shared with the world his knowledge and opinions on many subjects. Thus, it should come as no surprise that ethics did not escape Dr Brumback’s consideration. Reading Dr Brumback’s vitae, I came across several publications that afford insights into topics that tugged at his moral fabric. Dr Brumback was a steadfast defender of the scientific method. Reading his commentaries, one gets the sense that Dr Brumback felt personally attacked when quackery challenged science. In addition, and as long-time Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Child Neurology, Dr Brumback considered it a personal affront every time a paper he published, or for that matter published by any scientific journal, had to be retracted or corrected. In the following paragraphs, I review a selection of Dr Brumback’s ethics writings.
Informal Social Reactions to College Women’s Disclosure of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Dardis Christina M. , Sylaska Kateryna M. , Gidycz Christine A.
Published: May 2014

This researchers assessed informal (e.g., friends, family) social reactions to college women’s ( N = 139) disclosure of intimate partner violence (IPV) within their current romantic relationships and associated psychological (i.e., posttraumatic stress symptoms [PTSS] and global psychological distress symptoms) and relational (i.e., intentions to leave the abusive relationship) variables. Women completed confidential surveys, which assessed current partner abuse, psychological and relational variables, and three types of social reactions from informal supports to disclosure of IPV: positive (e.g., believing, validating the victim), negative (e.g., disbelieving, blaming the victim), and leaving (i.e., being told to end the relationship) reactions. At the bivariate level, negative social reactions to women’s disclosure were related to increases in global psychological distress, PTSS, and leaving intentions; positive social reactions to disclosure related only to increases in PTSS; and being told to leave the relationship related to increases in PTSS and leaving intentions. In the regression analyses, after controlling for abuse severity, negative social reactions were significantly related to global psychological distress and PTSS, and being told to leave significantly related to leaving intentions and PTSS. Mechanisms for these relationships and implications are discussed.
Cultivating an Unexpected Community
Authors: Miller Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2014

Luxville, a neighborhood in lower Manhattan in New York City, is mostly white, native, and wealthy. But when taking the workforce into account it is far more diverse, with immigrants filling most of the personal service jobs. Conventional assumption suggests that residents and immigrant service workers in Luxville would have little interpersonal contact, never mind sense of community, with one another. However, context-specific factors have aided the cultivation of a definition of community there that is unexpectedly inclusive of local immigrant workers, giving both immigrants and residents a sense of belonging. This paper, which is based on extensive ethnographic research, explores factors that create this inclusive community. The degree to which immigrants are incorporated in the neighborhood, however, is minimal, as they occupy a stratified and marginalized position. Immigrants’ belonging, therefore, is largely symbolic.
The mechanical properties of oxygen plasma-treated carbon nanotube and silicon dioxide-reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene composite film
Authors: Jianguo Zhang
Published: May 2014

The aim of this work is to evaluate the effects of oxidation treatment and the addition of silicon dioxide (SiO2) on the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube (CNT)/polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composite film. A powder impregnation process with integrated inline continuous oxidation of CNTs was used to produce CNT/PTFE composite. CNT/PTFE composite was processed into test laminates by compression molding, and interface-dominated composite properties were studied. The tensile strength of composites-containing SiO2 and oxidation-treated CNT improved obviously.
Optimization of process parameters of submerged arc welding by using grey–fuzzy-based Taguchi method for AISI 1518 grade steel
Authors: Sarkar Abhijit , Majumder Arindam , Pawar Martand , Saha S C , Rai R N
Published: May 2014

In this article, a grey–fuzzy-based algorithm with the Taguchi method is proposed to find the optimal process parameters’ setting for submerged arc welding process of AISI 1518 grade steel on the multiple performance characteristics such as tensile stress, toughness and hardness of weldment. Various process parameters, such as wire feed rate, stick out and traverse speed of welding process, were exposed by investigation. The proposed algorithm, coupling the grey relational analysis with the fuzzy logic, obtains a grey–fuzzy reasoning grade to evaluate the multiple performance characteristics according to the grey relational coefficient of each performance characteristic. Through the grey–fuzzy logic analysis, the optimization of multiple performance characteristics can be converted into the optimization of a single grey–fuzzy reasoning grade. Finally, the process parameters are optimized by the Taguchi method. The optimal process parameter combination becomes Wf-3 So-1 Ts-3, that is, the wire feed rate at level 3 (2 m/min), stick out at level 1 (20 mm) and traverse speed at level 3 (0.9 m/min) for maximum tensile stress and toughness and minimum hardness of weldments. It is also observed stick out on the overall mechanical property is more significant compared with other welding parameters (wire feed rate, traverse speed).
A new tool path for optical freeform surface fast tool servo diamond turning
Authors: Liu Qiang , Zhou Xiaoqin , Xu Pengzi
Published: May 2014

Fast tool servo–assisted ultra-precision diamond turning has been extensively regarded to be a very promising technology for the fabrication of optical freeform surfaces, and micro- and nano-structured surfaces with high efficiency and high surface quality. This article describes a changing feed-rate tool path which can adjust the tool position arbitrarily both in the x-direction and z-direction to obtain homogenous surfaces. Meanwhile, it can improve machining efficiency, save cutting parameters calculation time, and avoid over-cutting at workpiece center. Cutting experiment is carried out to implement the new tool path.
Multi-response optimization of wire electrical discharge machining process parameters for Al7075/Al2O3/SiC hybrid composite using Taguchi-based grey relational analysis
Authors: Lal Shyam , Kumar Sudhir , Khan ZA , Siddiquee AN
Published: May 2014

The effect of various wire electrical discharge machining process parameters such as pulse on time, pulse off time, pulse current and the wire drum speed on machined surface quality characteristics such as surface roughness and kerf width has been discussed. The experiments were carried out with L27 orthogonal array on hybrid metal matrix composite prepared by inert gas–assisted electromagnetic stir casting process using particulates 7.5% Al2O3 and 7.5% SiC each in Al7075 alloy. Taguchi-based grey relational analysis, a multi-response optimization technique, was used to find the optimal process parameter setting for the best quality machined characteristics. Results of analysis of variance showed that the order of significance was pulse on time, pulse current, pulse off time and the wire drum speed contributing 50.02%, 39.50%, 4.58% and 2.75%, respectively, while machining the hybrid composite. Confirmation test was carried out at selected optimal parameter setting, which showed improvement in grey relational grade, thus confirming the robustness of grey relational analysis.
Suspended SiC particle deposition on plastic mold steel surfaces in powder-mixed electrical discharge machining
Authors: Ekmekci Bülent , Ulusöz Fevzi , Ekmekci Nihal , Yaşar Hamidullah
Published: May 2014

The discharge gap phenomena in powder-mixed electrical discharge machining are examined using SiC powder mixing in water dielectric liquid. Surface modifications on machined work materials are investigated by means of optical, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The experimental studies revealed that the surface morphology drastically affected the additives as means of secondary discharges and particle migration from dielectric liquid. Such mechanisms do not occur randomly and indicate a robust dependency with respect to powder suspension concentration, pulse on duration and current. The influence on discharge transitivity with respect to suspended particle concentration is noted with pock shape development due to secondary discharges followed by an intermediate stage signifying a sudden increase in particle migration from the dielectric liquid. The particles decomposed on the surface at specific operational conditions demonstrating the possibility of methodical surface alloying using the process. Finally, the mechanisms involved were elaborated with respect to operational parameters and discussed based on the experimental results.
Prediction of element transfer due to flux and optimization of chemical composition and mechanical properties in high-strength low-alloy steel weld
Authors: Jindal Sandeep , Chhibber Rahul , Mehta Narinder P
Published: May 2014

The transfer of elements C, Si, Mn, P and S from slag into the weld metal or from weld metal into the slag and microhardness has been studied using formulated fluxes. The fluxes have been formulated using extreme vertices design with an aim to develop mathematical models for change in element content and mechanical properties versus flux constituents for submerged arc welding of high-strength low-alloy steel. It is found that CaO is the most significant flux constituent and Al2O3 is the second most significant constituent among individual mixtures. CaO·MgO and CaO·Al2O3 among binary mixtures have significant effect on element transfer and microhardness. Developed mathematical models have been checked for adequacy using t-test and analysis of variance (F-test). Flux mixtures’ composition has been provided for optimum chemical composition and mechanical properties. One of the optimum flux mixture with composition, CaO 11.61, Al2O3 12.33, CaF2 15.00 and MgO 39.06, would be providing desirable chemical composition and mechanical properties.
Development of a novel two-limbed parallel mechanism having Schönflies motion
Authors: Kim Sung Mok , Shin Kyoosik , Yi Byung-Ju , Kim Wheekuk
Published: May 2014

This paper introduces a novel parallel mechanism having Schönflies motion. The mechanism consists of only two RRPaR-type limbs. After a short description of its structure, its position analysis is conducted and its screw-based kinematic model is derived. Next, its singularity analysis is performed via Grassmann line geometry and then its optimal kinematic characteristics are examined with respect to workspace size and isotropy property. The results show that the proposed parallel mechanism has a very high potential to be used as a manipulator or a haptic device. A prototype of this mechanism was developed and tested to corroborate its performance.
Testability demonstration with component level data from virtual and physical tests
Authors: Wang Chao , Qiu Jing , Liu Guan-jun , Zhang Yong
Published: May 2014

Testability demonstration plays an important role in assuring the testability capability, which can decrease the fault diagnosis time and accelerate the maintenance actions. However, testability demonstration test with classical planning method has the problems of large fault sample size, high test cost, and long test period. A new testability demonstration planning method is proposed, which takes the component level data from both virtual and physical demonstration tests as prior information. Owing to the limitations of the testability modeling technology and relevant programming tools, the virtual testability prototype of the system level cannot be established and the virtual testability test data is not totally credible. So a data conversion method based on the information entropy theory is proposed to convert the component level virtual and physical test data into equivalent system test data, in which the data credibility is taken into consideration. The equivalent system test data is then used to get the prior probability density function of the testability indexes with an empirical Bayesian method. Then, a testability demonstration planning method of Bayesian posterior risk criteria is presented. Finally, the fault detection rate demonstration tests of a flight control system and a heating controller are taken as examples to verify the proposed method. The results show that the introduction of prior test data can effectively decrease the sample size and the credibility of the virtual testability test data can affect the test plan.
Film thickness and traction measurements of refrigerant R1233zd used as lubricant in elastohydrodynamic conditions
Authors: Morales-Espejel Guillermo E , Meeuwenoord Ralph , Quiñonez Armando Félix , Hauleitner Rudolf
Published: May 2014

This study presents film thickness and friction measurements of the refrigerant R1233zd (E-1-chloro-3,3,3,trifluoropropene-1) in a tribological contact. For the film thickness, optical interferometry technique with glass–steel contact is used in a ball-disc configuration, whilst for the traction measurements (Stribeck and traction curves), a contact ceramic ball–steel disc is used. In both cases, the Wedeven Associates Machines-5 tribometer is employed. An attempt to model the film thickness results is also carried out. The model gives a reasonably good prediction with respect to the experiments.
Frequency response analysis of nonlinear tapping-contact mode atomic force microscopy
Authors: McCarty Rachael , Mahmoodi S Nima
Published: May 2014

The nonlinear vibrations of the tapping-mode atomic force microscopy probe are investigated due to both nonlinearity in tip–sample contact force and curvature of the microcantilever probe. The nonlinear equations of motion for vibrations of the probe are obtained using Hamilton’s principle. In this work, the contact force is considered to be more dominant while previous works only consider Van der Waals force. The nonlinear contact force is expanded using a Taylor series to provide a polynomial with coefficients that are functions of the tip–sample distance. The outcome of this work allows the proper distance to be chosen before scanning to avoid instability in the response. Instability regions must be avoided for accurate imaging. The results show that initial tip–sample distance has a major effect on the stability of the frequency response and force response curves. For analytical investigation, the mode shapes of the atomic force microscopy probe are derived based on the presence of the nonlinear contact force as a boundary condition at the free end of the probe. The frequency response curve is obtained using the method of multiple scales. The results show that the effects of the nonlinearities due to probe geometry and contact force can be minimized. Minimizing the effects of nonlinearities allows for less cumbersome and calculation intensive software packages for atomic force microscopies. This research shows that one possible method of decreasing the nonlinearity effect is increasing the excitation force; however, this can increase the contact region and is not the best solution for canceling the nonlinearity effect. The superior method which is the major contribution of this paper is to find the optimal initial tip–sample distance and excitation force that minimize the nonlinearity effect. It is shown that at a certain tip–sample distance the quadratic and cubic nonlinearities cancel each other and the system responds linearly.
Design and analysis of a tendon-based MRI-compatible surgery robot for transperineal prostate needle placement
Authors: Jiang Shan , Sun Fude , Dai Jiansheng , Liu Jun , Yang Zhiyong
Published: May 2014

Tendon-based transmission has significant advantages in the development of a surgical robot, which is fully magnetic resonance imaging compatible and can work dexterously in the very limited space inside magnetic resonance imaging core. According to the requirements of magnetic resonance imaging compatibility, a novel 6 degrees of freedom tendon-based surgical robot composed of three independent modules is developed in this paper. After a brief introduction to the robot, the direct and inverse kinematic equations are deduced by applying the concept of screw displacements, and the reachable workspace of the robot is calculated. As to the static force analysis, we apply the principle of virtual work to derive a transmission between the equivalent joint torques and the tendon forces. By the use of the pseudoinverse technique, a systematic method is developed for the resolution of redundant tendon forces.
Latinos in the United States on the HIV/AIDS care continuum by birth country/region: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Sheehan Diana M , Trepka Mary Jo , Dillon Frank R
Published: May 2014

Summary

Twenty percent of Latinos with HIV in the US are unaware of their HIV status, 33% are linked to care late, and 74% do not reach viral suppression. Disparities along this HIV/AIDS care continuum may be present between various ethnic groups historically categorised as Latino. To identify differences along the HIV/AIDS care continuum between US Latinos of varying birth countries/regions a systematic review of articles published in English between 2002 and 2013 was conducted using MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. Studies that reported on one or more steps of the HIV/AIDS care continuum and reported results by birth country/region for Latinos were included. Latinos born in Mexico and Central America were found to be at increased risk of late diagnosis compared with US-born Latinos. No studies were found that reported on linkage to HIV care or viral load suppression by country/region of birth. Lower survival was found among Latinos born in Puerto Rico compared with Latinos born in mainland US. Inconsistent differences in survival were found among Latinos born in Mexico, Cuba, and Central America. Socio/cultural context, immigration factors, and documentation status are discussed as partial explanations for disparities along the HIV/AIDS care continuum.
Correlates of prevalent sexually transmitted infections among participants screened for an HIV incidence cohort study in Kisumu, Kenya
Authors: Otieno Fredrick Odhiambo , Ndivo Richard , Oswago Simon , Pals Sherri , Chen Robert , Thomas Timothy , Kunneke Ernesta , Mills Lisa A , McLellan-Lemal Eleanor
Published: May 2014

We determined the prevalence of four sexually transmitted infections and the demographic and behavioural correlates associated with having one or more sexually transmitted infections among participants in an HIV incidence cohort study in Kisumu, western Kenya. Participants were enrolled from a convenience sample and underwent aetiologic sexually transmitted infection investigation. Demographic and behavioural information were collected and basic clinical evaluation performed. Multiple regression analysis was done to determine variables associated with having one or more sexually transmitted infections. We screened 846, 18- to 34-year-olds. One-third had at least one sexually transmitted infection with specific prevalence being: syphilis, 1.6%; gonorrhoea, 2.4%; herpes simplex virus type-2, 29.1%; chlamydia, 2.8%; and HIV, 14.8%. Odds of having any sexually transmitted infection were higher among participants who were women, were aged 20–24 or 30–34 years compared to 18–19 years, had secondary or lower education compared to tertiary education, were divorced, widowed or separated compared to singles, reported having unprotected sex compared to those who did not, reported previous sexually transmitted infection treatment, and tested HIV-positive. Multiple strategies are needed to address the overall high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections as well as the gender disparity found in this Kenyan population. Structural interventions may be beneficial in addressing educational and socio-economic barriers, and increasing the uptake of health-promoting practices.
Douching practices among female sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Authors: Bui Thanh Cong , Tran Ly TH , Ross Michael W , Markham Christine M
Published: May 2014

Summary

Several studies indicate that douching has few benefits but numerous adverse health outcomes, including increased risk for sexually transmitted infections and HIV. No published study explores douching practices among Cambodian female sex workers. This report provides preliminary data about the prevalence and frequency of douching among female sex workers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Survey data were obtained from 81 female sex workers who were taken into custody due to engagement in commercial sex from March to June 2011. Results showed that 91% of participants douched. The mean numbers of times douched before sex and after sex per 10 sex episodes were 4.43 (SD = 3.87) and 4.63 (SD = 3.94), respectively. Half of the participants thought that douching could help to prevent sexually transmitted infections including HIV; 24% were unsure about this. Usually, douching after sex was associated with ever obtaining an HIV test ( p = .012) and was marginally associated (although not statistically significant) with a higher average number of clients per week ( p =. 063) and consistent condom use with clients ( p = .053). This suggests that these practices may be related to individual perceptions of sexually transmitted infections/HIV risk or susceptibility. Given the commonness of douching and related misperceptions among Cambodian female sex workers, future studies and interventions are needed to prevent adverse health problems.
Effects of rapid versus standard HIV voluntary counselling and testing on receipt rate of HIV test results: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yuan , Guo Jian , Lu Wenli
Published: May 2014

Rapid HIV voluntary counselling and testing (RVCT) is an alternative method of standard HIV voluntary counselling and testing (SVCT). Less is known about whether RVCT improves the receipt rate of HIV test results among clients who seek HIV counselling and testing. We aimed to evaluate effectiveness of RVCT on result receipt rate. We conducted a comprehensive search of databases containing Medline, EBSCO, Web of science, and Cochrane library to identify studies published up to August 2012. Reviewers extracted information independently. Risk of bias was evaluated with Cochrane Collaboration’s tool for assessing study quality. Five randomised controlled trials were included and analysed for the result receipt rate using a random-effects model. The pooled receipt rate of HIV test results in the RVCT was significantly higher than in the SVCT (RR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.47–2.07). Our results suggest RVCT as a favourable method to increase the receipt of HIV test results. Only two included studies assessed the modification of risk behaviour after HIV-CT in a different manner; also, the sample size was small in the current meta-analysis. In future research, it is necessary to confirm the effect of RVCT on disinhibition of post-test risk behaviour.
Parametric study of using transesterified biodiesel in a diesel engine
Authors: Hamouda MT , Elsheemy AN , Kamal MM , Hennes GM
Published: May 2014

The spray comparative tests on diesel/biodiesel–ethanol blends revealed that the spray tip penetration increases by a range from 4.4 to 21.5%, while the spray cone angle decreases by a range between 33.2 and 50.0% upon switching from diesel to biodiesel. Using biodiesel has an impact on the spray angle that is stronger than that on the penetration length. It was found that in order to minimize the relative reduction in the spray angle upon using a 50% petroleum diesel/50% biodiesel blend (B50), injectors of larger spray angles should be used, while no significant changes were found by adding ethanol to the diesel/biodiesel blends. The emission tests on a single cylinder naturally aspirated direct injection diesel engine showed that although the brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) increased upon switching from diesel to biodiesel, the unburnt hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions decreased. Upon blending ethanol with the diesel/biodiesel mixture, the HC emissions decreased by a relative percent as high as 26.6%, while the percentage of decrease in CO reached 10.8% by increasing the injection pressure from 55 to 95 MPa. Adding biodiesel to diesel increased the nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions due to the increased oxygen availability. Upon approaching the full load, the correspondingly reduced ignition delay resulted in earlier combustion and higher peak temperatures where an average turbulent kinetic energy of about 320 m2/s2 has been predicted. The NOx emissions were effectively reduced upon adding ethanol to the diesel/biodiesel blend due to the higher latent heat of evaporation of ethanol. Combining the retardation in the injection timing from −25 to −5° crank angle with the exhaust gas recirculation of 15% effectively reduced the NOx emissions to be below 2.6 g/kW.h.
A 12-week subchronic intramuscular toxicity study of risperidone-loaded microspheres in rats
Authors: Zhang J , Ye L , Wang W , Du G , Yu X , Zhu X , Dong Q , Cen X , Guan X , Fu F , Tian J
Published: May 2014

Long-acting injectable formulations of antipsychotics have been an important treatment option to increase the compliance of the patient with schizophrenia by monitoring drug administration and identifying medication noncompliance and to improve the long-term management of schizophrenia. Risperidone, a serotoninergic 5-HT2 and dopaminergic D2 receptor antagonist, was developed to be a long-acting sustained-release formulation for the treatment of schizophrenia. In this study, 12-week subchronic toxicity study of risperidone-loaded microspheres (RMs) in rats by intramuscular injection with an 8-week recovery phase was carried out to investigate the potential subchronic toxicity of a novel long-acting sustained-release formulation. The results indicated that the dosage of 10–90 mg/kg of RM for 2 weeks did not cause treatment-related mortality. The main drug-related findings were contributed to the dopamine D2 receptor and α1-adrenoceptor antagonism of risperidone such as elevation of serum and pituitary prolactin levels and ptosis and changes in reproductive system (uterus, ovary, vagina, mammary gland, testis, seminal vesicle, epididymis, and prostate). In addition, foreign body granuloma in muscle at injection sites caused by poly-lactide-co-glycolide was observed. At the end of the recovery phase, these changes mostly returned to normal. The results indicated that RM had a good safety profile in rats.
Nanotechnology in Dutch science cafés: Public risk perceptions contextualised
Authors: Dijkstra Anne M. , Critchley Christine R.
Published: May 2014

Understanding public perceptions of and attitudes to nanotechnology is important in order to understand and facilitate processes of dialogue and public participation. This research quantitatively analysed risk perceptions and attitudes of Dutch science café participants ( n = 233) and compared these with members of the Dutch public ( n = 378) who had not attended a café but were interested in science and technology as well. A qualitative analysis of the meetings contextualised and enriched the quantitative findings. Both groups shared similar key attitudes and were positive about nanotechnology while the Dutch café participants were even more positive about nanotechnology than the group of non-participants. The perception that nanotechnology would lead to risk applications was only predictive of attitudes for the non-participants. The qualitative analysis showed that café participants and speakers considered discussion of the risks, benefits and related issues important. Further research could investigate how science cafés can play a role in the science–society debate.
Acculturation, Health Literacy, and Illness Perceptions of Hypertension among Hispanic Adults
Authors: Perez Amelia
Published: May 2014

Purpose: Hypertension treatment rates are disproportionately lower among Hispanics compared to non-Hispanic Whites and non-Hispanic Blacks. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship among acculturation, health literacy, and illness perceptions of hypertension among Hispanics. Design: A cross-sectional correlational design was used, including 144 Hispanic adults with a self-reported diagnosis of hypertension. Method: The instruments used included the Short Acculturation Scale for Hispanics, the Newest Vital Sign instrument to measure health literacy, and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. Results: Significant relationships were found among acculturation, health literacy, and several illness perceptions (consequences, control, symptoms, and emotions). Conclusion: Acculturation and health literacy play an important role in illness perceptions of hypertension among Hispanics. Implications: Findings could be helpful in the development of tailored health promotion interventions to improve hypertension management among Hispanic adults.
Infant-Feeding Practices Among African American Women
Authors: Reeves Elizabeth A. , Woods-Giscombé Cheryl L.
Published: May 2014

Despite extensive evidence supporting the health benefits of breastfeeding, significant disparities exist between rates of breastfeeding among African American women and women of other races. Increasing rates of breastfeeding among African American women can contribute to the improved health of the African American population by decreasing rates of infant mortality and disease and by enhancing cognitive development. Additionally, higher rates of breastfeeding among African American women could foster maternal–child bonding and could contribute to stronger families, healthier relationships, and emotionally healthier adults. The purpose of this article is twofold: (a) to use the social-ecological model to explore the personal, socioeconomic, psychosocial, and cultural factors that affect the infant feeding decision-making processes of African American women and (b) to discuss the implications of these findings for clinical practice and research to eliminate current disparities in rates of breastfeeding.
Design and development of a novel displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper
Authors: Hu Guoliang , Ru Yi , Li Weihua
Published: May 2014

This article presents the development of a novel magnetorheological damper which has a self-sensing ability. In this study, a linear variable differential sensor, which was based on the electromagnetic induction mechanism, was integrated with a conventional magnetorheological damper. The working principle, configuration, and prototype of the displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper based on the integrated linear variable differential sensor technology were presented. A mathematical model of the proposed displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper was established. The finite element model was built with two-dimensional Maxwell software and the magnetic simulations were presented. With this approach, the influence of the flux leakage, the winding cylinder in different basic values of structure parameters, and materials were determined to obtain an optimal displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper. Finally, the dynamic performance of the displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper was evaluated with a fatigue test machine. The experimental results indicated that the developed displacement differential self-induced magnetorheological damper based on the integrated linear variable differential sensor technology can output controllable damping force and displacement relative self-induced voltages simultaneously.