bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Seismic Response of a Portal Frame Structure Based on the Transfer Matrix Method of Multibody System
Authors: Ding Jianguo , Zhuang Wei , Wang Pingxin
Published: November 2014

Portal frame structures are widely used in industrial building design but unfortunately are often damaged during an earthquake. As a result, a study on the seismic response of this type of structure is important to both human safety and future building designs. Traditionally, finite element methods such as the ANSYS and MIDAS have been used as the primary methods of computing the response of such a structure during an earthquake; however, these methods yield low calculation efficiencies. In this paper, the mechanical model of a single-story portal frame structure with two spans is constructed based on the transfer matrix method of multibody system (MS-TMM); both the transfer matrix of the components in the model and the total transfer matrix equation of the structure are derived, and the corresponding MATLAB program is compiled to determine the natural period and seismic response of the structure. The results show that the results based on the MS-TMM are similar to those obtained by ANSYS, but the calculation time of the MS-TMM method is only 1/20 of that of the ANSYS method. Additionally, it is shown that the MS-TMM method greatly increases the calculation efficiency while maintaining accuracy.
The Burden of Diarrheal Diseases among Children under Five Years of Age in Arba Minch District, Southern Ethiopia, and Associated Risk Factors: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mohammed Shikur , Tamiru Dessalegn
Published: November 2014

Introduction. In Ethiopia diarrhea is the second cause for clinical presentation among under five-year child population next to pneumonia and it is also more common in rural than in urban areas. Methods. A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Arba Minch District. Data were collected using structured questionnaire by trained data collectors. To identify predictors of diarrhea the negative binomial regression model was used to predict and control the effect of confounders. Results. The prevalence of diarrhea among under-five children was 30.5%. This study showed children whose mothers did not attend any formal education were 89% more likely to develop diarrhea (APR = 1.89, [95% CI: 1.35, 2.53]) compared to their counterparts. Similarly, children’s being in age category 6-23 months (APR = 2.78 [95% CI: 1.72, 4.55]) and mothers’ poor hand washing practice (APR = 2.33 [95% CI: 1.80, 4.15]) were found predictors of diarrhea. The study also showed that, out of 180 mothers whose child had got diarrhea, about 31% of mothers could not give anything to manage the diarrhea. Conclusions. In this study the prevalence of diarrhea was high which was significantly associated with maternal education level, age of the child, and personal hygiene practices. Therefore, women’s education level of at least primary school and enhancing community based behavioral change communications using multiple channels (radio) and community health workers are recommended to reduce the occurrence and consequences of childhood diarrhea in the study area.
An Improved Method Based on CEEMD for Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearing
Authors: Li Meijiao , Wang Huaqing , Tang Gang , Yuan Hongfang , Yang Yang
Published: November 2014

In order to improve the effectiveness for identifying rolling bearing faults at an early stage, the present paper proposed a method that combined the so-called complementary ensemble empirical mode decomposition (CEEMD) method with a correlation theory for fault diagnosis of rolling element bearing. The cross-correlation coefficient between the original signal and each intrinsic mode function (IMF) was calculated in order to reduce noise and select an effective IMF. Using the present method, a rolling bearing fault experiment with vibration signals measured by acceleration sensors was carried out, and bearing inner race and outer race defect at a varying rotating speed with different degrees of defect were analyzed. And the proposed method was compared with several algorithms of empirical mode decomposition (EMD) to verify its effectiveness. Experimental results showed that the proposed method was available for detecting the bearing faults and able to detect the fault at an early stage. It has higher computational efficiency and is capable of overcoming modal mixing and aliasing. Therefore, the proposed method is more suitable for rolling bearing diagnosis.
Chronologic Presentation of a Severe Case of Progressive Hemifacial Atrophy (Parry-Romberg Syndrome) with the Loss of an Eye
Authors: Kaya Mesut , Sel Yilmaz Ceyda , Kurtaran Hanifi , Gunduz Mehmet
Published: November 2014

Progressive hemifacial atrophy, also known as Parry-Romberg syndrome, is a slowly advancing degenerative disease that mostly affects the cutaneous, subcutaneous fatty tissue, muscle tissue, and bone structures on one side of the face. We describe the chronological progression of this very rare syndrome from early childhood until adulthood in a patient who developed severe atrophy and lost one eye. We also discuss the aetiology and pathophysiology of this syndrome.
Exact Analytical Solution for 3D Time-Dependent Heat Conduction in a Multilayer Sphere with Heat Sources Using Eigenfunction Expansion Method
Authors: Dalir Nemat
Published: November 2014

An exact analytical solution is obtained for the problem of three-dimensional transient heat conduction in the multilayered sphere. The sphere has multiple layers in the radial direction and, in each layer, time-dependent and spatially nonuniform volumetric internal heat sources are considered. To obtain the temperature distribution, the eigenfunction expansion method is used. An arbitrary combination of homogenous boundary condition of the first or second kind can be applied in the angular and azimuthal directions. Nevertheless, solution is valid for nonhomogeneous boundary conditions of the third kind (convection) in the radial direction. A case study problem for the three-layer quarter-spherical region is solved and the results are discussed.
Low Power Adder Based Auditory Filter Architecture
Authors: Rahiman P. F. Khaleelur , Jayanthi V. S.
Published: November 2014

Cochlea devices are powered up with the help of batteries and they should possess long working life to avoid replacing of devices at regular interval of years. Hence the devices with low power consumptions are required. In cochlea devices there are numerous filters, each responsible for frequency variant signals, which helps in identifying speech signals of different audible range. In this paper, multiplierless lookup table (LUT) based auditory filter is implemented. Power aware adder architectures are utilized to add the output samples of the LUT, available at every clock cycle. The design is developed and modeled using Verilog HDL, simulated using Mentor Graphics Model-Sim Simulator, and synthesized using Synopsys Design Compiler tool. The design was mapped to TSMC 65 nm technological node. The standard ASIC design methodology has been adapted to carry out the power analysis. The proposed FIR filter architecture has reduced the leakage power by 15% and increased its performance by 2.76%.
Comparison of Apoptotic Inducing Effect of Zerumbone and Zerumbone‐Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carrier on Human Mammary Adenocarcinoma MDA‐MB‐231 Cell Line
Authors: Hosseinpour Mahnaz , Abdul Ahmad Bustamam , Rahman Heshu Sulaiman , Rasedee Abdullah , Yeap Swee Keong , Ahmadi Negin , Othman Hemn Hassan , Chartrand Max Stanley
Published: November 2014

This study investigated the anticancer effect of zerumbone (ZER) and zerumbone‐loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (ZER‐NLC) on the human mammary gland adenocarcinoma (MDA‐MB‐231) cell line. The effect of ZER and ZER‐NLC on MDA‐MB‐231 cells was determined via electron and fluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry using the Annexin V, cell cycle, and Tdt‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling assays. We demonstrated that ZER and ZER‐NLC significantly suppressed the proliferation of MDA‐MB‐231 cells with an IC50 of 5.96 ± 0.13 and 6.01 ± 0.11 μg/mL, respectively. ZER and ZER‐NLC arrested MDA‐MB‐231 cell cycle at the G2/M phase. The induction of apoptosis by ZER and ZER‐NLC was via the intrinsic pathway through the release of cytochrome c and activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9. The treatments also caused the downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL proteins, and proliferating cell nuclear protein and upregulation of proapoptotic Bax protein. Therefore, loading of ZER into NLC did not compromise the anticancer effects of ZER on MDA‐MB‐231 cells. In conclusion, ZER‐NLC, which increased the bioavailability of ZER, is an effective agent in the treatment of cancers.
How Basal Ganglia Outputs Generate Behavior
Authors: Yin Henry H.
Published: November 2014

The basal ganglia (BG) are a collection of subcortical nuclei critical for voluntary behavior. According to the standard model, the output projections from the BG tonically inhibit downstream motor centers and prevent behavior. A pause in the BG output opens the gate for behavior, allowing the initiation of actions. Hypokinetic neurological symptoms, such as inability to initiate actions in Parkinson’s disease, are explained by excessively high firing rates of the BG output neurons. This model, widely taught in textbooks, is contradicted by recent electrophysiological results, which are reviewed here. In addition, I also introduce a new model, based on the insight that behavior is a product of closed loop negative feedback control using internal reference signals rather than sensorimotor transformations. The nervous system is shown to be a functional hierarchy comprising independent controllers occupying different levels, each level controlling specific variables derived from its perceptual inputs. The BG represent the level of transition control in this hierarchy, sending reference signals specifying the succession of body orientations and configurations. This new model not only explains the major symptoms in movement disorders but also generates a number of testable predictions.
Coexistence of Histologically Confirmed Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis with Different Stages of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in a Consecutive Chinese Cohort
Authors: Liu Xiaoyun , Zhu Lijun , Cui Dai , Wang Zhixiao , Chen Huanhuan , Duan Yu , Shen Meiping , Wu Yunsong , Rong Rong , Zhang Zhihong , Wang Xiaodong , Chen Jiawei , Alexander Erik K. , Yang Tao
Published: November 2014

Purpose. To determine the relationship between Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) and all stages of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) with or without local lymph node metastasis (LNM).Methods. We conducted a retrospective study of thyroidectomies from 2008–2013 in First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University. We categorized patients according to the presence of histopathologically proven HT. The prevalence of mPTC (maximum diameter ≤ 10 mm) and crPTC (clinical relevant PTC) and local LNM rates were compared.Results. We evaluated 6,432 consecutive thyroidectomies. In total, 1,328 specimens were confirmed as HT. The prevalence of PTC in this HT cohort was 43.8%, significantly higher than non-HT group. After adjustment of gender and age, the prevalence of PTC was still higher in HT group. HT was a risk factor for PTC in multivariate analysis with odds ratio 2.725 (95% CI, 2.390–3.109) (P<0.001). However, no correlation was found between HT and LNM of PTC.Conclusion. HT was associated with an increased prevalence of all stages of PTC, independent of tumor size, gender, and age. In contrast, locally advanced disease defined by LNM was unrelated to HT. These data suggest an association of HT with low risk PTC and a potential protective immunologic effect from further disease progression.
Soluble Fas and the −670 Polymorphism of Fas in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Bollain-y-Goytia Juan José , Arellano-Rodríguez Mariela , Torres-Del-Muro Felipe de Jesús , Daza-Benítez Leonel , Francisco Muñoz-Valle José , Avalos-Díaz Esperanza , Herrera-Esparza Rafael
Published: November 2014

This study was performed to clarify the role of soluble Fas (sFas) in lupus nephritis (LN) and establish a potential relationship between LN and the −670 polymorphism of Fas in 67 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), including a subset of 24 LN patients with proteinuria. Additionally, a group of 54 healthy subjects (HS) was included. The allelic frequency of the −670 polymorphism of Fas was determined using PCR-RFLP analysis, and sFas levels were assessed by ELISA. Additionally, the WT-1 protein level in urine was measured. The Fas receptor was determined in biopsies by immunohistochemistry (IHC) andin situhybridization (FISH) and apoptotic features by TUNEL.Results. The −670 Fas polymorphism showed that the G allele was associated with increased SLE susceptibility, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.86. The sFas was significantly higher in LN patients with the G/G genotype, and this subgroup exhibited correlations between the sFas level and proteinuria and increased urinary WT-1 levels. LN group shows increased expression of Fas and apoptotic features. In conclusion, our results indicate that the G allele of the −670 polymorphism of Fas is associated with genetic susceptibility in SLE patients with elevated levels of sFas in LN with proteinuria.
Comparative Study of Fiber Bragg Gratings and Fiber Polarimetric Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring of Carbon Composites
Authors: Olivero Massimo , Perrone Guido , Vallan Alberto , Tosi Daniele
Published: November 2014

A comparative study is presented between Bragg grating (FBG) and polarimetric sensors (PS), two of the most promising fiber optic sensing techniques for the structural health monitoring of smart materials based on carbon fiber composites. The paper describes the realization of a test plate equipped with both types of sensors and reports the characterization under static and dynamic conditions, highlighting pros and cons of both technologies. The FBG setup achieves 1.15 ± 0.0016 pm/kg static load response and reproduces dynamic excitation with 0.1% frequency uncertainty; the PS system exhibits a sensitivity of 1.74 ± 0.001 mV/kg and reproduces dynamic excitation with 0.5% frequency uncertainty. It is shown that the PS technology is a good and cheap alternative to FBG for vibration-monitoring of small structures at high frequency.
A Syntenic Region Conserved from Fish to Mammalian X Chromosome
Authors: Guan Guijun , Yi Meisheng , Kobayashi Tohru , Hong Yunhan , Nagahama Yoshitaka
Published: November 2014

Sex chromosomes bearing the sex-determining gene initiate development along the male or female pathway, no matter which sex is determined by XY male or ZW female heterogamety. Sex chromosomes originate from ancient autosomes but evolved rapidly after the acquisition of sex-determining factors which are highly divergent between species. In the heterogametic male system (XY system), the X chromosome is relatively evolutionary silent and maintains most of its ancestral genes, in contrast to its Y counterpart that has evolved rapidly and degenerated. Sex in a teleost fish, the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), is determined genetically via an XY system, in which an unpaired region is present in the largest chromosome pair. We defined the differences in DNA contents present in this chromosome with a two-color comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) approach in XY males. We further identified a syntenic segment within this region that is well conserved in several teleosts. Through comparative genome analysis, this syntenic segment was also shown to be present in mammalian X chromosomes, suggesting a common ancestral origin of vertebrate sex chromosomes.
Two Patients with Osteochondral Injury of the Weight-Bearing Portion of the Lateral Femoral Condyle Associated with Lateral Dislocation of the Patella
Authors: Nakagawa Shuji , Arai Yuji , Inoue Hiroaki , Atsumi Satoru , Ichimaru Shohei , Ikoma Kazuya , Fujiwara Hiroyoshi , Kubo Toshikazu
Published: November 2014

Complications of patellar dislocation include osteochondral injury of the lateral femoral condyle and patella. Most cases of osteochondral injury occur in the anterior region, which is the non-weight-bearing portion of the lateral femoral condyle. We describe two patients with osteochondral injury of the weight-bearing surface of the lateral femoral condyle associated with lateral dislocation of the patella. The patients were 18- and 11-year-old females. Osteochondral injury occurred on the weight-bearing surface distal to the lateral femoral condyle. The presence of a free osteochondral fragment and osteochondral injury of the lateral femoral condyle was confirmed on MRI and reconstruction CT scan. Treatment consisted of osteochondral fragment fixation or microfracture, as well as patellar stabilization. Osteochondral injury was present in the weight-bearing portion of the lateral femoral condyle in both patients, suggesting that the injury was caused by friction between the patella and lateral femoral condyle when the patella was dislocated or reduced at about 90° flexion of the knee joint. These findings indicate that patellar dislocation may occur and osteochondral injury may extend to the weight-bearing portion of the femur even in deep flexion, when the patella is stabilized on the bones of the femoral groove.
Impact of Ellagic Acid in Bone Formation after Tooth Extraction: An Experimental Study on Diabetic Rats
Authors: Al-Obaidi Mazen M. Jamil , Al-Bayaty Fouad Hussain , Al Batran Rami , Hussaini Jamal , Khor Goot Heah
Published: November 2014

Objectives. To estimate the impact of ellagic acid (EA) towards healing tooth socket in diabetic animals, after tooth extraction.Methods. Twenty-fourSprague Dawleymale rats weighing 250–300 g were selected for this study. All animals were intraperitoneally injected with 45 mg/kg (b.w.) of freshly prepared streptozotocin (STZ), to induce diabetic mellitus. Then, the animals were anesthetized, and the upper left central incisor was extracted and the whole extracted sockets were filled with Rosuvastatin (RSV). The rats were separated into three groups, comprising 8 rats each. The first group was considered as normal control group and orally treated with normal saline. The second group was regarded as diabetic control group and orally treated with normal saline, whereas the third group comprised diabetic rats, administrated with EA (50 mg/kg) orally. The maxilla tissue stained by eosin and hematoxylin (H&E) was used for histological examinations and immunohistochemical technique. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were used to evaluate the healing process in the extracted tooth socket by immunohistochemistry test.Results. The reactions of immunohistochemistry for FGF-2 and ALP presented stronger expression, predominantly in EA treated diabetic rat, than the untreated diabetic rat.Conclusion. These findings suggest that the administration of EA combined with RSV may have accelerated the healing process of the tooth socket of diabetic rats, after tooth extraction.
The Influence of Sewage System on the Functioning and Quality of Krakow’s Watercourses
Authors: Wardas-Lasoń Marta
Published: November 2014

The content of heavy metals, pH, Eh, and EC were measured for the Vistula River and its two tributaries, Prądnik-Białucha and Wilga, functioning as rainwater collectors for Krakow. Water sediments were collected from several inlets of the rainwater canals into the Prądnik-Białucha and Wilga. The Vistula was examined to catch the change of water environment quality of those two tributaries as well as storm overflow systems installed on both its left and right bank. In this last case the research was based on the bottom sediments of the storm overflow system, from its inlets into the Vistula River, and from the inside of the waste water collector. Also, samples of suspension and water were collected where the bridges are located and also near Dębnicki bridge bottom sediments. The sampling was conducted in 2004-2005 but because of financial constraints after ten years the tests were not repeated, but it was decided to publish the results. The attention was paid to the Cd and Pb content in the sediments of sanitary catch basins from the Wilga and the Prądnik, in Vistula sediments from storm overflow system, in the siphon, in the suspension of Vistula waters, and in fine-grain river silts.
Blowup of Solution for a Class of Doubly Nonlinear Parabolic Systems
Authors: Lu Jun , Hu Qingying , Zhang Hongwei
Published: November 2014

An initial boundary value problem for a class of doubly parabolic equations is studied. We obtain sufficient conditions for the blowup of solutions under suitable initial data using differential inequalities.
The Development of LED-Based Dental Light Using a Multiplanar Reflector Design
Authors: Hsieh Chi-Chang , Li Yan-Huei
Published: November 2014

A multiplanar reflector was designed to enhance the application efficiency of light-emitting diode (LED) light sources that can be employed as LED-based dental lights. This study used a high-power LED developed by Nichia, that is, a single LED capable of providing a total luminous flux of 120 lm, as the primarily light source to design and develop an LED-based dental light. This LED complies with the international standards and regulations stipulated in ISO 9680:2007. The light spots produced by the prototype were rectangular, with a length of 200 mm and a width of 100 mm. These light spots achieved maximum illumination of 12,000 lux. The use of LEDs can reduce energy consumption from 50 W to 3 W, providing an energy saving of more than 90%.
The Mixed Type Splitting Methods for Solving Fuzzy Linear Systems
Authors: Saberi Najafi H. , Edalatpanah S. A. , Shahabi S.
Published: November 2014

We consider a class of fuzzy linear systems (FLS) and demonstrate some of the existing methods using the embedding approach for calculating the solution. The main aim in this paper is to design a class of mixed type splitting iterative methods for solving FLS. Furthermore, convergence analysis of the method is proved. Numerical example is illustrated to show the applicability of the methods and to show the efficiency of proposed algorithm.
Impact of Microvascular Invasion and Tumor Necrosis on the Prognosis of Korean Patients with pT1b Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kwon Se Yun , Lee Jun Nyung , Kim Bum Soo , Ko Young Hwii , Song Phil Hyun , Kim Hyun Tae , Kim Tae-Hwan , Yoo Eun Sang , Choi Gyu-Seog , Kim Bup Wan , Kwon Tae Gyun
Published: November 2014

Objectives: To evaluate prognostic factors in pT1b renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients for which no specific studies have been conducted on. Methods: The data of 270 patients diagnosed with pT1bN0M0 RCC at 2 institutions between January 1998 and June 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses using Cox proportional hazard models were used to identify pathologic and clinical factors that influenced prognosis. Five-year recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival were analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: The median follow-up period was 55.5 months, and the mean patient age was 55.2 years (range: 26-80). There were 12 cancer-related deaths, and tumor recurrence was noted in 22 patients between 8 and 120 months after surgery. Sites of metastases included the lung in 13 patients, bone in 5 patients, and other sites in 4 patients. Five-year recurrence-free survival and cancer-specific survival rates were 91.2 and 93.5%, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that the presence of microvascular invasion and tumor necrosis independently predicted prognosis. Conclusions: Microvascular invasion and tumor necrosis were found to be independent prognostic factors in pT1b RCC. This result will help urologists to provide patients with more accurate prognoses, and patients with confirmed microvascular invasion and tumor necrosis will require closer follow-up.
Edoxaban Effects on Bleeding Following Punch Biopsy and Reversal by a 4-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate
Authors: Zahir Hamim , Brown Karen S. , Vandell Alexander G. , Desai Madhuri , Maa Jen-Fue , Dishy Victor , Lomeli Barbara , Feussner Annette , Feng Wenqin , He Ling , Grosso Michael A. , Lanz Hans J. , Antman Elliott M.
Published: November 2014

Background—

The oral factor Xa inhibitor edoxaban has demonstrated safety and efficacy in stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and in the treatment and secondary prevention of venous thromboembolism. This study investigated the reversal of edoxaban’s effects on bleeding measures and biomarkers by using a 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC).

Methods and Results—

This was a phase 1 study conducted at a single site. This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 2-way crossover study to determine the reversal effect of descending doses of 4F-PCC on bleeding duration and bleeding volume following edoxaban treatment. A total of 110 subjects (17 in part 1, 93 in part 2) were treated. Intravenous administration of 4F-PCC 50, 25, or 10 IU/kg following administration of edoxaban (60 mg) dose-dependently reversed edoxaban’s effects on bleeding duration and endogenous thrombin potential, with complete reversal at 50 IU/kg. Effects on prothrombin time were partially reversed at 50 IU/kg. A similar trend was seen for bleeding volume.

Conclusions—

The 4F-PCC dose-dependently reversed the effects of edoxaban (60 mg), with complete reversal of bleeding duration and endogenous thrombin potential and partial reversal of prothrombin time following 50 IU/kg. Edoxaban alone and in combination with 4F-PCC was safe and well tolerated in these healthy subjects. A dose of 50 IU/kg 4F-PCC may be suitable for reversing edoxaban anticoagulation.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02047565.
Altered Dependence of Aortic Pulse Wave Velocity on Transmural Pressure in Hypertension Revealing Structural Change in the Aortic Wall
Authors: Gaddum Nicholas R. , Keehn Louise , Guilcher Antoine , Gomez Alberto , Brett Sally , Beerbaum Philipp , Schaeffter Tobias , Chowienczyk Philip
Published: November 2014

Aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV), a major prognostic indicator of cardiovascular events, may be augmented in hypertension as a result of the aorta being stretched by a higher distending blood pressure or by a structural change. We used a novel technique to modulate intrathoracic pressure and thus aortic transmural pressure (TMP) to examine the variation of intrathoracic aPWV with TMP in hypertensive (n=20; mean±SD age, 52.1±15.3 years; blood pressure, 159.6±21.2/92.0±15.9 mm Hg) and normotensive (n=20; age, 55.5±11.1 years; blood pressure, 124.5±11.9/72.6±9.1 mm Hg) subjects. aPWV was measured using dual Doppler probes to insonate the right brachiocephalic artery and aorta at the level of the diaphragm. Resting aPWV was greater in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects (897±50 cm/s versus 784±43 cm/s;
P
<0.05). aPWV was equal in hypertensive and normotensive subjects when measured at a TMP of 96 mm Hg. However, dependence of aPWV on TMP in normotensive subjects was greater than that in hypertensive subjects (9.6±1.6 versus 3.8±0.7 cm/s per mm Hg increase in TMP, respectively, means±SEM;
P
<0.01). This experimental behavior was best explained by a theoretical model incorporating strain-induced recruitment of stiffer fibers in normotensive subjects and fully recruited stiffer fibers in hypertensive subjects. These results explain previous contradictory findings with respect to isobaric aPWV in hypertensive compared with normotensive subjects. They suggest that hypertension is associated with a profound change in aortic wall mechanical properties possibly because of destruction of elastin leading to less strain-induced stiffening and predisposition to aortic dissection.
Jacques Margeret’s Last Mission
Authors: Nozdrin Oleg J.
Published: November 2014

The correspondence of King Gustav II Adolf, Chancellor Axel Oxenstierna, and Johan Skytte provides a glimpse into the final days of the French mercenary captain Jacques Margeret, author of one of the most valuable personal accounts of the Time of Troubles.
The development of the Pediatric Motivation Scale for rehabilitation
Authors: Tatla Sandy K. , Jarus Tal , Virji-Babul Naznin , Holsti Liisa
Published: November 2014

Background.

Clinicians recognize that client motivation is key to optimizing rehabilitation; however, they are limited in its assessment by a paucity of motivation measures.

Purpose.

This paper presents the preliminary psychometrics of the Pediatric Motivation Scale (PMOT) designed to measure motivation from a child’s perspective.

Method.

Content validity of the PMOT was measured through expert feedback ( n = 12), and field testing ocurred with 41 children, 21 in rehabilitation and 20 healthy. Pearson product-moment correlations were used to analyze subscale correlations, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity with the Pediatric Volitional Questionnaire (PVQ). Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’s alpha.

Findings.

Preliminary psychometric evaluation indicates strong internal consistency for PMOT total (α = .96) and subscales (α = .79–.91). The PMOT and PVQ moderately correlated in the rehabilitation subsample ( r = .71, p < .01); no correlation was found in the healthy subsample ( p > .05). Test-retest reliability was excellent ( r = .97).

Implications.

This study provides preliminary psychometric evidence of the PMOT for children undergoing rehabilitation. These pilot findings warrant ongoing scale development.
REBOUND: A media-based life skills and risk education programme
Authors: Kröninger-Jungaberle Henrik , Nagy Ede , von Heyden Maximilian , DuBois Fletcher ,   the REBOUND Participative Development Group, Ullrich Jens , Wippermann Christina , Pospiech Björn , Gordon Vanessa , Haubold Lena , Breitner Stefanie , Lieneweg Sascha , Hochadel Sarah , Brommond Michaela
Published: November 2014

Background:

REBOUND is a novel media-based life skills and risk education programme developed for 14- to 25-year olds in school, university or youth group settings. This paper outlines the programme’s rationale, curriculum and implementation. It provides information of relevance to researchers, programme developers and policymakers.

Methods/design of the programme:

The programme is based on a form of cooperative learning. It is facilitated by teachers and other professionals and supported by peer mentors. The curriculum is centred around ‘explorative film work’ with short films/videos depicting risk behaviours and life challenges. The methodology aims to promote risk competence and positive norm-building in social groups. The programme consists of a course comprising 16 units, 10 of which focus on psychosocial strength (resilience) and 6 on risks of alcohol and other drugs. Implementation is supported by a mentoring system, a voluntary eLearning component and tools for organisational development. The programme has been evaluated with about 1,000 students in the intervention group of a controlled study using a mixed-method design involving structured stakeholder and peer feedback.

Discussion:

REBOUND is one of the few health promotion/prevention programmes to have been entirely developed together with those (students, facilitators, school administrators) for whom the programme is intended.
Intra-Urban Mobilities and the Depiction of the City in Zimbabwean Fiction as Reflected in Valerie Tagwira’s Uncertainty of Hope (2006)
Authors: Musanga Terrence
Published: November 2014

This article explores intra-urban mobilities and the depiction of the city in contemporary Zimbabwean literature as reflected in Valerie Tagwira’s Uncertainty of Hope. It shall be argued that intra-urban mobilities are closely related to the depiction of the city as a heterogeneous space that is unevenly constituted. This unevenness is influenced by economic and political factors and translates into the realm of the social and symbolic as some spaces are projected as “safe” and “respectable” while others are conceptualized as of “ill repute” and “threat” to the security, morals, and safety of its inhabitants. However, the boundaries between “safe” and “threatening” spaces are constantly transgressed by Zimbabwean urban dwellers in their day to day struggles for survival in a harsh and unrelenting economic and political climate. This political and economic environment has resulted in most Zimbabweans being insecure as testified by heightened intra-urban mobilities. Furthermore, the insecurity and intra-urban mobility are exemplified by the creation of unstable identities premised on fear, anxiety, and restlessness that characterize the lives of most urban dwellers.
Simulation-based adaptive calibration and optimization of intelligent transportation systems for highway congestion management
Authors: Zou Guangyu , Kulkarni Rakesh
Published: November 2014

The paper introduces an adaptive optimization framework that is used to calibrate and optimize multiple intelligent transportation strategies such as high occupancy toll (HOT), ramp metering, and variable speed limits. The framework is capable of estimating the OD (origin–destination) matrix, calibrating the model with the experimental data, and conducting system optimization in transportation. This capability is shown with simulation experiments based on the public data of I-95 Florida. The preliminary results show that the revenue increases with target speed up to a point, after which the revenue drops. Also, the throughput on the HOT increases with decreasing target speed. So, to maximize revenue and throughput together, the optimal values are observed at moderate levels of the feasible range. Also, in the presence of accidents, the total throughput is improved by decreasing the toll rate. Optimal level of vehicles on the HOT lanes is examined to minimize vehicle emissions.
Innate Mucosal Immune System Response of BALB/c vs C57BL/6 Mice to Injury in the Setting of Enteral and Parenteral Feeding
Authors: Busch Rebecca A. , Jonker Mark A. , Pierre Joseph F. , Heneghan Aaron F. , Kudsk Kenneth A.
Published: November 2014

Background: Outbred mice exhibit increased airway and intestinal immunoglobulin A (IgA) following injury when fed normal chow, consistent with humans. Parenteral nutrition (PN) eliminates IgA increases at both sites. Inbred mice are needed for detailed immunological studies; however, specific strains have not been evaluated for this purpose. BALB/c and C57BL/6 are common inbred mouse strains but demonstrate divergent immune responses to analogous stress. This study addressed which inbred mouse strain best replicates the outbred mouse and human immune response to injury. Methods: Intravenously cannulated mice received chow or PN for 5 days and then underwent sacrifice at 0 or 8 hours following controlled surgical injury (BALB/c: n = 16–21/group; C57BL/6: n = 12–15/group). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for IgA, tumor necrosis factor–α (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)–1β, and IL‐6, while small intestinal wash fluid (SIWF) was analyzed for IgA. Results: No significant increase in BAL IgA occurred following injury in chow‐ or PN‐fed BALB/c mice (chow: P = .1; PN: P = .7) despite significant increases in BAL TNF‐α and SIWF IgA (chow: 264 ± 28 vs 548 ± 37, P < .0001; PN: 150 ± 12 vs 301 ± 17, P < .0001). Injury significantly increased mucosal IgA in chow‐fed C57BL/6 mice (BAL: 149 ± 33 vs 342 ± 87, P = .01; SIWF: 236 ± 28 vs 335 ± 32, P = .006) and BAL cytokines. After injury, PN‐fed C57BL/6 mice exhibited no difference in BAL IgA (P = .9), BAL cytokines, or SIWF IgA (P = .1). Conclusions: C57BL/6 mice exhibit similar airway responses to injury as outbred mice and humans, providing an appropriate model for studying mucosal responses to injury. The BALB/c mucosal immune system responds differently to injury and does not replicate the human injury response.
Talking About Trayvon in 140 Characters
Authors: Schmittel Annelie , Sanderson Jimmy
Published: November 2014

This research explored how National Football League (NFL) players used Twitter to discuss the verdict in the George Zimmerman murder trial in the immediate aftermath of its announcement. A textual analysis, using constant comparative procedures of 465 tweets from 125 NFL players, was conducted. Results revealed that players discussed the case in the following ways: (a) anticipation, (b) disbelief, (c) critiques of the American Justice System, (d) social commentary, (e) condolences and support, (f) responding to fans, and (g) freedom of speech arguments. The results suggest that Twitter is a viable mechanism for African American and other minority athletes to engage in activism and initiate important conversations about social justice issues. Although empowering, this also may create conflict for team personnel and fans who may be uncomfortable with athletes using Twitter to question structures that favor Whiteness.
Inhibitory CD200R and proapoptotic CD95/CD95L molecules on innate immunity cells are modulated by cardiac surgery
Authors: Holmannova D , Kolackova M , Mandak J , Kunes P , Holubcova Z , Krejsek J , Vlaskova D , Andrys C
Published: November 2014

Introduction:

Cardiac surgery directly initiates a systemic inflammatory response with the activation of both cellular and humoral parts of the immune system. Exaggerated immune system activation is associated with a risk of life-threatening multi-organ dysfunction (MOD) and increased morbidity and mortality in the postoperative period. The immune system response is regulated and terminated by inhibitory mechanisms, including the regulatory membrane molecules, such as CD200R, CD95, CD95L and soluble sCD200R.

Methods:

We measured the expression of CD95, CD95L, CD200R and sCD200R molecules in granulocyte and monocyte populations in blood samples of 30 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Samples collected before surgery, after surgery and in the postoperative period were analyzed by flow cytometry and ELISA.

Results:

We found a significant increase in the percentage of granulocytes featuring the anti-inflammatory molecule CD200R (from 5% to 17.8%) after surgery. We presume that these cells were less susceptible to apoptosis because they rarely expressed CD95 as the CD200R+CD95– granulocyte sub-population prevailed. Only a small percentage of CD200R+ granulocytes expressed simultaneously CD95 (from 0.5 to 2.06 %). This small population of CD200R+CD95+ cells decreased expression of CD200R after surgery and, thus, was likely to be a source of increased sCD200R in serum (from 96 to 294 ng/mL). Also, the expression of CD95L on CD200R+ granulocytes and CD95 on CD200R+ monocytes was affected by surgery. The percentage of CD200R+ monocytes was elevated on the 1st postoperative day (from 30.6 to 49.4 %) and dropped below the preoperative value on the 7th day after surgery (from 30.6 to 19.8 %). This population comprised mainly CD200R+CD95+ monocytes in which the enhanced expression of CD95 was found.

Conclusion:

Our data show that the expression of CD200R, CD95 and CD95L was influenced by cardiac surgery and imply the role of these membrane molecules in cell regulation–inhibition and apoptosis following cardiac surgery.
A Systematic Review of Fidelity of Implementation in Parent-Mediated Early Communication Intervention
Authors: Lieberman-Betz Rebecca G.
Published: November 2014

This article examined the reporting of four elements of fidelity of implementation (FOI) in parent-mediated early communication treatment studies. Thirty-five studies were reviewed to extract information regarding reporting of dosage, adherence, quality, and participant responsiveness for both practitioners and parents involved in parent-delivered communication treatment for children birth to 6 years of age. Results indicate relatively low reporting practices across the four elements of FOI for both practitioners and parents. Most studies (71%) reported dosage at the practitioner level (e.g., number and length of parent-training sessions), while few studies (14%) reported dosage at the parent level (i.e., amount of intervention implemented by parents outside of treatment sessions). Results also found 60% of studies reported adherence for parent implementation, but only 34% of studies reported adherence for practitioners. Implications for low reporting in the research literature, as well as recommendations for future reporting and research on FOI, are provided.
Development of an EORTC-8D Utility Algorithm for Sri Lanka
Authors: Kularatna Sanjeewa , Whitty Jennifer A. , Johnson Newell W. , Jayasinghe Ruwan , Scuffham Paul A.
Published: November 2014

Background. Currently there are no reported cancer-specific health state valuations in low- and middle-income countries using a validated preference-based measure. The EORTC-8D, a cancer-specific preference-based measure, has 81,920 health states and is useful for economic evaluations in cancer care. The aim of this study was to develop a utility algorithm to value EORTC-8D health states using preferences derived from a representative population sample in Sri Lanka. Methods. The time-tradeoff method was used to elicit preferences from a general population sample of 780 in Sri Lanka. A block design of 85 health states, with a time horizon of 10 years, was used for the direct valuation. Data were analyzed using generalized least squares with random effects. All respondents with at least one logical inconsistency were excluded from the analysis. Results. After logical inconsistencies were excluded, 4520 observations were available from 717 respondents for the analysis. The preferred model specified main effects with an interaction term for any level 4 or worse descriptor within a health state. Worsening of physical functioning had a substantially greater utility decrement than any other dimension in this population. Limitations are that the data collection could not include the whole country and that females formed a large part of the sample. Conclusions. Preference weights for EORTC-8D health states for Sri Lanka have been derived: These will be very useful in economic evaluations of cancer-related interventions in a range of low- and middle-income countries.
Dependency, Urban Slums, and the Forgotten Plagues
Authors: Austin Kelly F.
Published: November 2014

Tuberculosis (TB) and malaria remain leading causes of death in certain areas of the world system and directly contribute to persistent patterns in global inequality. I employ structural equation modeling for a sample of 135 nations to appropriately test for indirect and complex relationships among economic, social, and environmental indicators. The results demonstrate that economic dependency and environmental decline lead to increased urban slum populations in less developed nations, and that nations with larger urban slum populations have higher rates of TB and malaria. Important interrelationships also are evidenced among additional predictors, such as socio-health characteristics, economic development, and location in Sub-Saharan Africa. Overall, this research demonstrates that current epidemiological patterns in TB and malaria prevalence have important sociological underpinnings. Public policy should be directed toward addressing the social causes of these diseases, including improved access to schooling, health care, and other basic resources, especially in urban areas characterized by slum conditions.
Engineers and Engineeresses? Self-conceptions and the Development of Gendered Professional Identities
Authors: Cech Erin
Published: November 2014

Do men and women in the same field develop different professional identities? This paper theoretically articulates and empirically explores a mechanism of such gendering: Self-conceptions may filter the identity traits emphasized by professional cultures so that only traits consistent with one’s self-conceptions are likely to be adopted into one’s professional identity. As such, systematic gender differences in self-conceptions may be relayed into gender variation in professional identities. Using longitudinal survey data of engineering students from four U.S. colleges, I find that four self-conceptions, two gendered and two gender-neutral, predict students’ adoption of four professional identity traits: problem-solving prowess, technological leadership, managerial/communication skills, and social consciousness. Two of these traits are gendered: Women are less likely than men to value technological leadership but more likely to value social consciousness. Suggesting possible career consequences of professional identities, I find that three professional identity traits predict students’ intentions to remain in engineering.
Can Social Ties Be Harmful? Examining the Spread of Suicide in Early Adulthood
Authors: Mueller Anna S. , Abrutyn Seth , Stockton Cynthia
Published: November 2014

Durkheim posited that social relationships protect individuals against suicide; however, substantial research demonstrates that suicide can spread through the very ties Durkheim theorized as protective. With this study, we use Waves I, III, and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health to investigate whether young adults’ suicide attempts and ideations are in part products of exposure to suicidal behaviors via their social relationships. We find that young adults who have had family members or friends attempt suicide are more likely to report suicide ideation or even suicide attempts over both the short and long run. This finding is robust to many important controls for risk and protective factors for suicide. Our findings have implications for the sociology of suicide, not the least of which is that social ties have the power to harm in addition to the power to protect.
Negotiating “The Welfare Queen” and “The Strong Black Woman”
Authors: Dow Dawn Marie
Published: November 2014

This research analyzes how African American middle- and upper-middle-class mothers understand their work and family decision making in relation to two controlling images—the Strong Black Woman (SBW) and the Welfare Queen—that they describe regularly confronting in their lives. In-depth interviews with 60 African American middle- and upper-middle-class mothers reveal the strategies these mothers use to overcome assumptions that they are poor, single mothers on welfare or, alternatively, are self-reliant and resilient caregivers who do not need help. Although most interviewees distanced themselves from the image of the Welfare Queen, they had a range of responses to the SBW: Some invested in it, some resisted it, and some rejected it. This study shows how the controlling images of the SBW and the Welfare Queen influence the meanings African American middle- and upper-middle-class mothers attach to their decisions related to work and family and create a sense of exclusion from white middle-class mothering communities.
Assessing the Writing Achievement of Young Struggling Writers
Authors: Graham Steve , Hebert Michael , Paige Sandbank Michael , Harris Karen R.
Published: November 2014

This study examined the number of writing samples needed to obtain a reliable estimate of young struggling writers’ capabilities. It further assessed if performance in one genre was reflective of performance in other genres for these children. Second- and third-grade students (81 boys, 56 girls), who were identified as struggling writers in need of special assistance by their teacher and scored at the 25th percentile or lower on a norm-referenced story-writing test, wrote four compositions: a story, personal narrative, opinion essay, and informative text. Applying generalizability theory (G-theory), students’ scores on three writing measures (total number of words [TNW], vocabulary diversity, and writing quality) for the four compositions were each portioned into variance due to the following sources: students, writing tasks, and the interaction between students and writing tasks. We found that 14, 8, and 11 compositions, respectively, would be needed to obtain a reliable estimate of these students’ writing capabilities in terms of TNW, vocabulary diversity, and writing quality. Furthermore, how well these students wrote in one genre provided a weak prediction of how well they wrote in other genres.