bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic characterization of viscoelastic materials used in composite structures
Authors: Fotsing ER , Sola M , Ross A , Ruiz Edu
Published: December 2013

The main focus of this paper is the experimental comparative analysis of the viscoelastic properties of acrylic- and silicon-based viscoelastic materials. These materials are widely used in the aeronautic industry for structural and/or damping applications. It is therefore required to determine their viscoelastic properties such as shear modulus and loss factor following their integration to aircraft composite structures. The influence of material thickness, bonding quality, curing and cocuring with composite material was evaluated using dynamic mechanical analysis machine in plan shear configuration. This comparative analysis in the 0–600 Hz frequency range provides useful information that should be taken into consideration when designing bonded joints for structural and/or damping applications. The small variation of the acrylic-based material loss factor over a wide range of frequencies suggests that this material is a good candidate for damping applications at room temperature in metallic structures where no curing is required. However, cocuring of acrylic-based material with composite laminae increases its shear modulus up to six times with respect to the uncured material whereas its loss factor is reduced by about 20%. On the other hand, the silicon-based material remains stable after thermal treatment (curing and cocuring) suggesting that it is well suited for in situ damping treatment involving laminate composite structure. However, at room temperature its shear modulus after cocuring is lowered by almost 25% due to poor bonding quality, which depends on the nature of the substrate.
Self-cross-linking kinetics of unsaturated polyester poly(fumaric-co-itaconic-co-butanediol)
Authors: Shao Fenjuan , Yang Qun , Li Lanying , Lu Danian
Published: December 2013

Unsaturated polyester poly(fumaric-co-itaconic-co-butanediol) (poly(FA-co-IA-co-BD)) was prepared with fumaric acid (FA), itaconic acid (IA), and 1,4-butanediol (BD) by melt polycondensation, and its self-cross-linking kinetics was investigated through the percentage of insoluble gel fraction ( Qs) and conversion degree of C=C (DC). The results showed that poly(FA-co-IA-co-BD) had the highest Qs and DC, when the mole ratio of FA and IA was 1:0.96, which meant that the polyester had the maximum extent of self-cross-linking. And the polyester had the maximum rate constant ( k) and the smallest activation energy ( Ea). The value of k was temperature dependent, and the higher the temperature, the higher the value of k. Thermodynamics parameters such as [Formula: see text] were also discussed. The results showed that, [Formula: see text], the self-cross-linking reaction of the poly(FA-co-IA-co-BD) occurred at high temperature. The self-cross-linking reaction was an exothermic reaction, [Formula: see text] was equivalent to Ea. [Formula: see text], the product in the transition state was more ordered. When the mole ratio of FA to IA was 1:0.96, poly(FA-co- IA-co-BD) was the most ordered in the transition state and had the smallest [Formula: see text], and the C=C in the polyester self-cross-linked easily.
Collaborative Mechanisms in Interlocal Cooperation
Authors: Blair Robert , Janousek Christian L.
Published: December 2013

Local government administrators have embraced intergovernmental collaboration as a viable alternative in the delivery of public programs for many years, characterizing an increasing emphasis on interlocal cooperation as a response to common problems and situational needs. In the process of collaboration, local governments often use a combination of linking mechanisms, ranging in degrees of formality and specificity. This study longitudinally examines the administrative networks and mutual organizations that comprise the collaborative mechanisms of municipalities in the state of Nebraska. The findings suggest that, over time, the nature and use of interlocal cooperation mechanisms have shifted toward the more informal and general varieties.
Reinforcing the Safety Net
Authors: MacIndoe Heather
Published: December 2013

This article uses data from a survey of nonprofit executive directors in Boston, Massachusetts to address the question: which factors influence the propensity for and intensity of nonprofit-local government collaborations? The likelihood of collaboration (or propensity) is influenced by resource dependence on government and foundation funding, reduced transaction costs, and perceived competition with other nonprofits. The strength (or intensity) of nonprofit-local government relationships is positively associated with nonprofit capacity, resource diversification, factors associated with reduced transaction costs, and participation in a nonprofit membership association. These findings have important implications for government practitioners and nonprofit leaders who seek to foster stronger collaborations.
The Ripple Effects of Stranger Harassment on Objectification of Self and Others
Authors: Davidson M. Meghan , Gervais Sarah J. , Sherd Lindsey W.
Published: December 2013

Despite the frequency and negative consequences of stranger harassment, only a scant number of studies have explicitly examined stranger harassment and its consequences through the lens of objectification theory. The current study introduced and tested a mediation model in which women’s experiences of stranger harassment may lead to self-objectification, which in turn may lead to objectification of other people. To examine this model, undergraduate women ( N = 501) completed measures of stranger harassment (including the verbal harassment and sexual pressure subscales of the Stranger Harassment Index), body surveillance, and objectification of other women and men. Consistent with hypotheses, significant positive correlations emerged among total stranger harassment, verbal harassment, sexual pressure, body surveillance, and other-objectification of women. Other-objectification of men showed a similar pattern of results, with the exception of being unrelated to total stranger harassment and sexual pressure. Consistent with the proposed model, body surveillance was a significant mediator of the relation between total stranger harassment and other-objectification of both women and men, as well as the relation between verbal harassment and other-objectification of both women and men. Theoretical and practical implications, as well as future directions for research on stranger harassment, are discussed.
Voices of Hispanic College Students
Authors: Storlie Cassandra A. , Moreno Luis S. , Portman Tarrell Awe Agahe
Published: December 2013

As Hispanic students continue to be an underrepresented cultural group in higher education, researchers are called to uncover the challenging and complex experience of this diverse group of students. Using the constant comparative method, these researchers conducted a content analysis of the qualitative research on the experiences of Hispanic college students within the Hispanic Journal of Behavioral Sciences (1979-2011). Of the 1,060 findings generated, only six qualitative research articles met the inclusion criteria for this content analysis. Eight themes emerged: past barriers, negative college experiences, self-efficacy, positive feelings, succeeding, additional support, cultural awakening, and hope. Discussion of two separate realities for Hispanic college students is included.
The Transition From Middle School to High School as a Developmental Process Among Latino Youth
Authors: Vasquez-Salgado Yolanda , Chavira Gabriela
Published: December 2013

The transition from middle school to high school is an important developmental period to investigate because of the negative impact it has on youths’ academics. The purpose of this study was to investigate Latino youths’ academic achievement prior to, during, and after the transition to high school, and gender differences in youths’ achievement over time. School transcripts were obtained for 92 youth. Three latent growth curve models were tested. Youth were stable in achievement throughout middle school, declined in grades during the transition, yet remained stable in high school. Youth with higher achievement in fall of eighth grade declined in the transition at a faster rate than youth who held lower achievement. Girls held higher levels of achievement across each stage in development; boys and girls differed in high school trajectories. Policy makers interested in fostering a successful transition should create programs for both high- and low-achieving Latino youth.
Improving the Provision of Enteral Nutrition in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Cahill Naomi E. , Murch Lauren , Cook Deborah , Heyland Daren K. ,   on Behalf of the Canadian Critical Care Trials Group
Published: December 2013

Background: Tailoring interventions to address identified barriers to change may be an effective strategy to implement guidelines and improve practice. The purpose of this article is to describe the development and implementation of a tailored intervention to overcome barriers to enterally feeding critically ill patients. Methods: A before‐after study was conducted in 5 hospitals in North America. We adopted a pragmatic stepwise approach to developing and implementing a tailored intervention—namely, (1) formation of a guideline implementation team, (2) identification of barriers to the provision of enteral nutrition (ie, guideline‐practice gap analysis, staff survey, focus group with key stakeholders), (3) focus group to prioritize these barriers, (4) brainstorming to select interventions to overcome the prioritized barriers, (5) a 12‐month implementation phase including bimonthly progress meetings, and (6) evaluation of the tailored intervention. Results: All sites identified and prioritized barriers to target for change and developed a tailored action plan. Three of the 22 potential barriers were prioritized by all sites, resulting in common components to the action plans. However, barriers and interventions that were unique to specific sites were also identified. All sites were successful in implementing most of the selected strategies during the implementation phase, although the degree of implementation varied depending on the type of strategy and the site. Conclusion: This stepwise process to developing and implementing an intervention tailored to barriers is promising and could be considered by dietitians and other providers seeking to improve nutrition practice.
Tool path design for enhancement of accuracy in single-point incremental forming
Authors: Asghar J , Lingam R , Shibin E , Reddy NV
Published: December 2013

One of the variants and simplest form of incremental sheet metal forming process is single-point incremental forming in which a spherical ended tool is used to form features on one side of the initial plane of the sheet. Dimensional deviation is observed in the region of component opening (due to sheet bending) and at the wall as well as base regions. This article presents a methodology to minimize the dimensional deviation in the wall and base regions of single-point incremental forming formed components. The authors observed that the sheet deflection due to axial force and tool deflection due to radial force are the two main factors leading to the geometric deviation in wall as well as base regions. An analytical model has been developed for estimating these two deflections. These deflection values are incorporated in the tool path generation, and the components formed using the compensated tool path resulted in acceptable dimensional accuracy in the wall region. Force predictions carried out by force equilibrium method are used to calculate the deflection compensations as its predictions are in reasonably good agreement with the force predictions of finite element analysis and experimental measurements. Significant improvement in accuracy is achieved by using the deflection compensated tool paths.
Hybrid reliability model of hydraulic turbine-generator unit based on nonlinear vibration
Authors: Li Zhaojun , Liu Yang , Liu Fuxiu , Yang Xujuan
Published: December 2013

In order to study the vibration reliability of hydraulic turbine-generator unit, the nonlinear dynamic equation of the main shaft system of hydraulic turbine-generator unit is established by the finite element method. Then the nonlinear vibration characteristics of the system are analyzed and the excitation frequencies of the system are obtained by the method of multiple scales. Based on the criterion that the absolute values of difference between the natural frequencies and excitation frequencies of the system should be less than specific values, the hybrid probabilistic, nonprobabilistic, and fuzzy reliability model of the system based on nonlinear vibration is constructed. By the hybrid reliability model, the reliability of system can be calculated. Finally, an example is presented.
Racial Progress as Threat to the Status Hierarchy
Authors: Wilkins Clara L. , Kaiser Cheryl R.
Published: December 2013

In three studies, we examined how racial progress affects Whites’ perceptions of anti-White bias. When racial progress was chronically (Study 1) and experimentally (Study 2) salient, Whites who believed the current U.S. status hierarchy was legitimate were more likely to report that Whites were victims of racial discrimination. In contrast, Whites who perceived the current status system as illegitimate were unaffected by the salience of racial progress. The results of Study 3 point to the role of threat in explaining these divergent reactions to racial progress. When self-affirmed, Whites who perceived the status hierarchy as legitimate no longer showed increased perceptions of anti-White bias when confronted with evidence of racial progress. Implications for policies designed to remedy social inequality are discussed.
Pooling of cultured samples and comparison of multistate laboratory workflows with the MagMAX sample preparation system and VetMAX quantitative polymerase chain reaction reagents for detection of Tritrichomonas foetus–colonized bulls
Authors: Effinger Lee , Peddireddi Lalitha , Simunich Marilyn , Oberst Richard , O’Connell Catherine , Leyva-Baca Ivan
Published: December 2013

The objectives of the current study were 1) to compare sample preparation workflows and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays (qPCR) as currently used in veterinary diagnostic laboratories with a study protocol utilizing commercially available reagents for individual Tritrichomonas foetus testing, 2) to assess the accuracy of pooling cultured smegma samples followed by extraction and qPCR testing as used in the study laboratory, and 3) to assess the specificity of the currently used primers and probes by sequencing all positive and presumptive positive samples identified in the study laboratory in an attempt to capture any nucleotide variability between T. foetus isolates and to rule out false-positive results possibly due to Simplicimonas moskowitzi. Eight hundred three cultured smegma samples were collected from different regions of the United States with the collaboration of 5 veterinary testing laboratories. The samples were processed individually by the respective laboratories, and then sent to the study laboratory and retested using the study protocol. Comparison testing showed an overall agreement of 95.89% between the veterinary testing laboratories and the study laboratory. One hundred seventy-six positive or presumptive positive samples plus 625 negative qPCR samples were combined and retested using a pooling protocol. Pools consisted of 1 positive sample and 4 negative samples (1/5). These pools were processed using the same study laboratory protocols, and 96% of the positive samples were detected in these pools. Nested PCR followed by sequencing confirmed 175 of the 178 samples classified as positive or presumptive positive in the study laboratory as containing T. foetus–specific DNA.
The Language Connectome
Authors: Dick Anthony Steven , Bernal Byron , Tremblay Pascale
Published: December 2013

The field of the neurobiology of language is experiencing a paradigm shift in which the predominant Broca–Wernicke–Geschwind language model is being revised in favor of models that acknowledge that language is processed within a distributed cortical and subcortical system. While it is important to identify the brain regions that are part of this system, it is equally important to establish the anatomical connectivity supporting their functional interactions. The most promising framework moving forward is one in which language is processed via two interacting “streams”—a dorsal and ventral stream—anchored by long association fiber pathways, namely the superior longitudinal fasciculus/arcuate fasciculus, uncinate fasciculus, inferior longitudinal fasciculus, inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, and two less well-established pathways, the middle longitudinal fasciculus and extreme capsule. In this article, we review the most up-to-date literature on the anatomical connectivity and function of these pathways. We also review and emphasize the importance of the often overlooked cortico-subcortical connectivity for speech via the “motor stream” and associated fiber systems, including a recently identified cortical association tract, the frontal aslant tract. These pathways anchor the distributed cortical and subcortical systems that implement speech and language in the human brain.
The Integrated City Sustainability Database
Authors: Feiock Richard C. , Krause Rachel M. , Hawkins Christopher V. , Curley Cali
Published: December 2013

This article describes the construction of the Integrated City Sustainability Database (ICSD) that is the first truly comprehensive data set of U.S. municipal government sustainability programs and policies. Taking advantage of a unique opportunity to combine seven independent data collection efforts, it will provide a valuable resource for scholars in multiple disciplines investigating local environmental and energy sustainability. It also adds missing elements to the research infrastructure for the study of local government and urban policy. This nationwide database will provide a comprehensive assessment of municipal sustainability programs that can contribute to a more rigorous and theoretically informed understanding of city government and governance.
The construction and evaluation of three measures of affectionate behaviour for children with Asperger’s syndrome
Authors: Sofronoff Kate , Lee Jessica , Sheffield Jeanie , Attwood Tony
Published: December 2013

Children with Asperger’s syndrome are often reported by their parents as having difficulties communicating affection. This study aimed to develop a valid measure of affectionate behaviour that could be used to investigate and quantify these anecdotal reports and then be used in further intervention research. Using parent and expert focus groups, three measures (Affection for Others Questionnaire, Affection for You Questionnaire and General Affection Questionnaire) were developed with reference to the existing affection literature. The measures were completed by 131 parents of children with a clinician-confirmed diagnosis of Asperger’s syndrome. Psychometric assessment of the measures revealed clear factor structures with high internal consistencies and significant concurrent validities. The findings suggest many children with Asperger’s syndrome have difficulties with affectionate behaviour that significantly impact their daily functioning and relationships with others, signalling future research needs to develop interventions in this area. Limitations of the research are also discussed.
The strange and spooky battle over bats and black dresses: The commodification of Whitby Goth Weekend and the loss of a subculture
Authors: Spracklen Karl , Spracklen Beverley
Published: December 2013

From counterculture to subculture to the ubiquity of every black-clad wannabe vampire hanging around the centre of Western cities, Goth has transcended a musical style to become a part of everyday leisure and popular culture. The music’s cultural terrain has been extensively mapped in the first decade of this century. In this article, we examine the phenomenon of the Whitby Goth Weekend, a modern Goth music festival, which has contributed to (and has been altered by) the heritage-tourism marketing of Whitby as the holiday resort of Dracula (the place where Bram Stoker imagined the Vampire Count arriving one dark and stormy night). We examine marketing literature and websites that sell Whitby as a spooky town, and suggest that this strategy has driven the success of the Goth festival. We explore the development of the festival and the politics of its ownership, and its increasing visibility as a mainstream tourist destination for those who want to dress up for the weekend. By interviewing Goths from the north of England, we suggest that the mainstreaming of the festival has led to it becoming less attractive to those more established, older Goths who see the subculture’s authenticity as being rooted in the post-punk era, and who believe that Goth subculture should be something one lives full-time.
Emerging Evidence for Instructional Practice
Authors: Beal-Alvarez Jennifer S. , Huston Sandra G.
Published: December 2013

Current initiatives in education, such as No Child Left Behind and the National Common Core Standards movement, call for the use of evidence-based practices, or those instructional practices that are supported by documentation of their effectiveness related to student learning outcomes, including students with special needs. While hearing loss is a low-incidence disability, the majority of students who are deaf/hard of hearing (D/HH) receive educational services in their local schools, where educators frequently lack proficient sign language skills. One way to provide fluent sign language models is through the use of repeated viewings of stories presented in sign language. We present an overview of the current evidence base for the use of repeated viewings of sign language materials with students who are D/HH. In addition, we detail how sign language materials are created by a collaborative team at a school for the deaf.
Comment: Interjections and Expressivity
Authors: Riemer Nick
Published: December 2013

Natural semantic metalanguage (NSM) assumes that interjections’ meaning is principally conceptual (descriptive). However, the expressive character of immediate interjections requires the rejection of any conceptualist approach to their meaning. When compared with vocabulary for which a conceptual account is most plausible, immediate uses of interjections appear to fail a basic requirement on the postulation of conceptual meaning.
Comment: Evidence for Basicness from Noise-like Interjections of Emotions
Authors: Sauter Disa A.
Published: December 2013

Goddard (2014) proposes a three-partite division of emotive interjections, which is helpful in delineating this heterogeneous set of phenomena. The distinction also explains inconsistencies between Goddard’s and previous findings: While his study demonstrates variability across languages in word-like primary interjections, previous work investigating noise-like interjections has found evidence for universality. Such cross-culturally consistent, categorical perception of emotional signals can be explained as emerging from bottom–up information without the need for top–down learning via language or interjections.
Author Reply
Authors: Goddard Cliff
Published: December 2013

Sauter raises interesting points about expressive vocalisations, such as laughing, crying, gasping, etcetera. This reply discusses an expanded research agenda incorporating these. Riemer’s commentary is based on his opposition to nonreferentialist approaches to meaning. My reply seeks to clarify the natural semantic metalanguage (NSM) position on the conceptual status of semantic primes, while urging researchers to consider independently the merits of reductive paraphrase as a heuristic and a corrective to terminological Anglocentrism.
Basic Emotions and the Rocks of New Hampshire
Authors: Ellsworth Phoebe C.
Published: December 2013

This article describes James’s distaste for taxonomic classification of emotion and argues that he would not have been pleased by current scholarship which still focuses on the definition and classification of discrete emotions, distracting scholars from more fundamental underlying processes. I argue that as in James’s time, current taxonomies are still arbitrary and still constrain the kinds of questions psychologists ask.
Bodily Influences on Emotional Feelings: Accumulating Evidence and Extensions of William James’s Theory of Emotion
Authors: Laird James D. , Lacasse Katherine
Published: December 2013

William James’s theory of emotion has been controversial since its inception, and a basic analysis of Cannon’s critique is provided. Research on the impact of facial expressions, expressive behaviors, and visceral responses on emotional feelings are each reviewed. A good deal of evidence supports James’s theory that these types of bodily feedback, along with perceptions of situational cues, are each important parts of emotional feelings. Extensions to James’s theory are also reviewed, including evidence of individual differences in the effect of bodily responses on emotional experience.
Author Reply: Comment on Reisenzein & Stephan
Authors: Deigh John
Published: December 2013

This reply is a comment on the brief discussion of my article in Reisenzein and Stephan’s (2014) concluding article.
Current Emotion Research in Linguistic Anthropology
Authors: Wilce James M.
Published: December 2013

Linguistic anthropologists have studied emotion in societies around the world for several decades. This article defines the discipline, introduces its general relevance to emotion theory, then presents five of the most important contributions linguistic anthropology has made to the study of emotion.
Particulated Juvenile Articular Cartilage Implantation in the Knee
Authors: Stevens Hazel Y. , Shockley Blake E. , Willett Nick J. , Lin Angela S.P. , Raji Yazdan , Guldberg Robert E. , Labib Sameh A.
Published: December 2013

Objective:

The goal of this report is to describe the outcome of sequential particulated cartilage allograft and autologous osteochondral transfer treatments for an osteochondral lesion of the medial femoral condyle.

Methods:

A 44-year-old woman was treated with a particulated juvenile articular cartilage allograft ( DeNovo NT) for a chondral lesion of the knee. As a result of continued pain, she had 2 further surgeries, including an autologous osteochondral transfer system procedure and finally a unicondylar knee arthroplasty. At the final procedure, the areas of the allograft and autograft tissue were biopsied for histological evaluation. The quality of the residual cartilage tissue was assessed first by equilibrium partitioning of an ionic contrast agent via micro–computed tomography (EPIC-µCT), and then by hematoxylin and eosin, Safranin O staining, and polarized light microscopy.

Results:

Despite showing good healing at 7 months postsurgery by MRI, at 28 months post DeNovo NT tissue implantation the excised cartilage tissue was heterogeneous, with some regions of hyaline-like cartilage and some regions of fibrocartilage. The later mosaicplasty may have helped maintain hyaline-like cartilage of the DeNovo NT tissue in its vicinity.

Conclusion:

This case report describes the cartilage repair tissue produced by DeNovo NT implantation and compares it with autologous osteochondral plug tissue.
A psychological flexibility conceptualisation of the experience of injustice among individuals with chronic pain
Authors: Scott Whitney , McCracken Lance M , Trost Zina
Published: December 2013

Accumulating evidence suggests that the experience of injustice in patients with chronic pain is associated with poorer pain-related outcomes. Despite this evidence, a theoretical framework to understand this relationship is presently lacking. This review is the first to propose that the psychological flexibility model underlying Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may provide a clinically useful conceptual framework to understand the association between the experience of injustice and chronic pain outcomes. A literature review was conducted to identify research and theory on the injustice experience in chronic pain, chronic pain acceptance, and ACT. Research relating injustice to chronic pain outcomes is summarised, the relevance of psychological flexibility to the injustice experience is discussed, and the subprocesses of psychological flexibility are proposed as potential mediating factors in the relationship between injustice and pain outcomes. Application of the psychological flexibility model to the experience of pain-related injustice may provide new avenues for future research and clinical interventions for patients with pain.

Summary points

• Emerging research links the experience of pain-related injustice to problematic pain outcomes. • A clinically relevant theoretical framework is currently lacking to guide future research and intervention on pain-related injustice. • The psychological flexibility model would suggest that the overarching process of psychological inflexibility mediates between the experience of injustice and adverse chronic pain outcomes. • Insofar as the processes of psychological inflexibility account for the association between injustice experiences and pain outcomes, methods of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) may reduce the impact of injustice of pain outcomes. • Future research is needed to empirically test the proposed associations between the experience of pain-related injustice, psychological flexibility and pain outcomes, and whether ACT interventions mitigate the impact of pain-related injustice on pain outcomes.
Some approximation results for generalized Kantorovich-type operators
Authors: Mursaleen Mohammad , Khan Faisal , Khan Asif , Kiliçman Adem
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we construct a new family of operators, prove some approximation results in A-statistical sense and establish some direct theorems for Kantorovich-type integral operators.

MSC: Primary 41A10, 41A25, 41A36.
Infection- and procedure-dependent effects on pulmonary gene expression in the early phase of influenza A virus infection in mice
Authors: Preusse Matthias , Tantawy Mohamed A , Klawonn Frank , Schughart Klaus , Pessler Frank
Published: December 2013

Background

Investigating the host response in the early stage of influenza A virus (IAV) infection is of considerable interest. However, it is conceivable that effects due to the anesthesia and/or intranasal infection procedure might introduce artifacts. We therefore aimed to evaluate the effects of anesthesia and/or intranasal infection on transcription of selected pulmonary mRNAs in two inbred mouse strains with differential susceptibility to IAV infection.

Results

DBA/2J and C57BL/6J mice were evaluated in a time course experiment in which lung tissue was sampled after 6, 12, 18, 24, 48 and 120 h. After anesthesia with ketamine and xylazine, a suspension of mouse-adapted IAV strain PR8_Mun in 20 μl sterile buffer, or 20 μl sterile buffer only, was instilled intranasally. The mice receiving anesthesia and PBS only were designated the “mock treatment” group. Pulmonary expression of 10 host mRNAs (Fos,Retnla,Irg1,Il6,Il1b,Cxcl10,Stat1,Ifng,Ifnl2, andMx1) and viral hemagglutinin (HA) mRNA were determined at the designated time points. As expected, weight loss and viral replication were greater in the DBA/2J strain (which is more susceptible to IAV infection). Four mRNAs (Retnla,Irg1,Il6, andCxcl10) were procedure-dependently regulated in DBA/2J mice between 6 and 24 h, and two (RetnlaandIl6) in C57BL/6J mice, although to a lesser extent. All 10 mRNAs rose after infection, but one (Fos) only in DBA/2J mice. These infection-dependent effects could be separated from procedure-dependent effects beginning around 12 h in DBA/2J and 18 h in C57BL/6J mice. The interferon-related mRNAsStat1, Ifng,Infl2,andMx1were unaffected by mock treatment in either mouse strain.Mx1andInfl2correlated best with HA mRNA expression (r = 0.97 and 0.93, respectively, in DBA/2J).

Conclusions

These results demonstrate effects of the anesthesia and/or intranasal infection procedure on pulmonary gene expression, which are detectable between approximately 6 and 24 h post procedure and vary in intensity and temporal evolution depending on the mouse strain used. Mock infection controls should be included in all studies on pulmonary gene expression in the early phase of infection with IAV and, likely, other respiratory pathogens.
A structured review and exploration of the healthcare costs associated with stillbirth and a subsequent pregnancy in England and Wales
Authors: Mistry Hema , Heazell Alexander E P , Vincent Oluwaseyi , Roberts Tracy
Published: December 2013

Background

In contrast to other pregnancy complications the economic impact of stillbirth is poorly understood. We aimed to carry out a preliminary exploration of the healthcare costs of stillbirth from the time of pregnancy loss and the period afterwards; also to explore and include the impact of a previous stillbirth on the healthcare costs of the next pregnancy.

Methods

A structured review of the literature including cost studies and description of costs to health-care providers for care provided at the time of stillbirth and in a subsequent pregnancy. Costs in a subsequent pregnancy were compared in three alternative models of care for multiparous women developed from national guidelines and expert opinion: i) “low risk” women who had a live birth, ii) “high risk” women who had a live birth and iii) women with a previous stillbirth.

Results

The costs to the National Health Service (NHS) for investigation immediately following stillbirth ranged from £1,242 (core recommended investigations) to £1,804 (comprehensive investigation). The costs in the next pregnancy following a stillbirth ranged from £2,147 (low-risk woman with a previous healthy child) to £3,751 (Woman with a previous stillbirth of unknown cause). The cost in the next pregnancy following a stillbirth due to a known recurrent or an unknown cause is almost £500 greater than the pregnancy following a stillbirth due to a known non-recurrent cause.

Conclusions

The study has highlighted the paucity of evidence regarding economic issues surrounding stillbirth. Women who have experienced a previous stillbirth are likely to utilise more health care services in their next pregnancy particularly where no cause is found. Every effort should be made to determine the cause of stillbirth to reduce the overall cost to the NHS. The cost associated with identifying the cause of stillbirth could offset the costs of care in the next pregnancy. Future research should concentrate on robust studies looking into the wider economic impact of stillbirth.
Application of Ni-Ti Alloy connector for the treatment of comminuted coronal plane supracondylar-condylar femoral fractures: a retrospective review of 21 patients
Authors: Zhang Yuntong , Zhao Xue , Tang Yang , Zhang Chuncai , Xu Shuogui , Xie Yang
Published: December 2013

Background

Our preliminary retrospective study assessed outcomes after the use of Ni-Ti arched shape-memory connector (ASC) combined with partially threaded cancellous screws (PTCS) to repair coronal plane supracondylar-condylar femoral fractures.

Methods

Twenty-one patients (16 men and 5 women) with a mean age of 34.1 years (range, 28 to 44 years) with coronal plane supracondylar and condylar fractures of the distal femur were included in this study. Each patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation using the ASC and PTCS. Active functional exercises with restricted weight bearing were initiated the first postoperative day. A gradual increase in weight bearing status and range of motion was permitted and subjects progressed to full weight bearing by 8 weeks. Surgical time, blood loss, postoperative knee range of motion, American Knee Society Scores (KSS), and postoperative complications were assessed.

Results

The mean surgical time was 75 mins (range, 45 to 100 mins) and average blood loss was 105 ml (range, 35 to 130 ml). Mean follow-up was 65 months (range, 22 to 90 months). No subjects demonstrated evidence of osteonecrosis or arthritis at the final follow-up. The mean KSS was excellent (≥85) in 8 subjects, good (70-84) in 11 subjects, and fair (60-69) in 2 subjects. The mean active range of motion of knee flexion at final follow-up was 100 degrees (range, 85 to 110 degrees).

Conclusions

ASC combined with PTCS can serve as an effective means for managing comminuted femoral fractures that extend from the condyle to the supracondylar region. However, further prospective comparative studies and biomechanical analyses are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes using these materials.
Marjolin’s ulcer: a preventable malignancy arising from scars
Authors: Yu Nanze , Long Xiao , Lujan-Hernandez Jorge R , Hassan Kazi Z , Bai Ming , Wang Yang , Wang Xiaojun , Zhao Ru
Published: December 2013

Background

Marjolin’s ulcer (MU) is a rare malignancy arising from various forms of scars. This potentially fatal complication typically occurs after a certain latency period. This article attempts to reveal the importance of the latency period in the prevention and early treatment of the malignancy.

Methods

A retrospective review of 17 MU patients who underwent surgical procedures between June of 2005 and December 2011 was conducted. Etiology of injuries, latency period, repeated ulceration, and outcomes were recorded. This observational report reveals characteristics of patients who develop MU.

Results

An incidence of 0.7% of MU was found amongst patients complaining of existing scars in our study; burns and trauma were the most common etiology of MU. The mean latency period was 29 years (SD = 19) and the mean post-ulceration period was 7 years (SD = 9). Statistical analysis revealed a negative correlation between the age of patients at injury and the length of latency period (r = −0.8, P <0.01), as well as the lengths of pre-ulceration and post-ulceration periods (r = −0.7, P <0.01).

Conclusions

Patients experience different lengths of pre- and post-ulceration periods during the latency period. Younger patients tend to have a longer latency period. Skin breakdown on chronic scars and chronic unhealed ulcers are two main sources of MU. MU may be preventable with a close surveillance of the ulcer during the latency period.
The influence of type-I and type-II triplet multiple quantum well structure on white organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhao Bo , Su Zisheng , Li Wenlian , Chu Bei , Jin Fangming , Yan Xingwu , Zhang Tianyou , Zhang Feng , Fan Di , Gao Yuan , Wang Junbo , Pi Huachun , Zhu Jianzhuo
Published: December 2013

We demonstrate high-efficient white organic light-emitting diodes (WOLEDs) based on triplet multiple quantum well (MQW) structure and focus on the influence on WOLEDs through employing different potential barrier materials to form type-I and type-II MQWs, respectively. It is found that type-I MQW structure WOLEDs based on 1,3,5-tris(N-phenyl-benzimidazol-2-yl)benzene as potential barrier layer (PBL) offers high electroluminescent (EL) performance. That is to say, maximum current efficiency and power efficiency are achieved at about 1,000 cd/m2 with 16.4 cd/A and 8.3 lm/W, which increase by 53.3% and 50.9% over traditional three-layer structure WOLEDs, respectively, and a maximum luminance of 17,700 cd/m2 is earned simultaneously. The achievement of high EL performance would be attributed to uniform distribution and better confinement of carriers within the emitting layer (EML). However, when 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline or 2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline is used as PBL to form type-II MQW structure, poor EL performance is obtained. We attribute that to improper energy level alignment between the interface of EML/PBL, which leads to incomplete confinement and low recombination efficiency of carriers, a more detailed mechanism was argued.
Synthesis, microstructure, and magnetic properties of monosized Mn
x
Zn
y
Fe3 − x − yO4 ferrite nanocrystals
Authors: Yoon Hayoung , Lee Ji Sung , Min Ji Hyun , Wu JunHua , Kim Young Keun
Published: December 2013

We report the synthesis and characterization of ferrite nanocrystals which exhibit high crystallinity and narrow size distributions. The three types of samples including Zn ferrite, Mn ferrite, and Mn-Zn ferrite were prepared via a non-aqueous nanoemulsion method. The structural, chemical, and magnetic properties of the nanocrystals are analyzed by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence, and physical property measurement system. The characterization indicates that the three types of ferrite nanocrystals were successfully produced, which show well-behaved magnetic properties, ferrimagnetism at 5 K and superparamagnetism at 300 K, respectively. In addition, the magnetization value of the ferrites increases with the increasing concentration of Mn.
Children’s and adolescent’s self - assessment of metabolic control versus professional judgment: a cross-sectional retrospective and prospective cohort study
Authors: Bieri Andreas , Oser-Meier Monika , Janner Marco , Cripe-Mamie Chantal , Pipczynski-Suter Kathrin , Mullis Primus E , Flück Christa E
Published: December 2013

Background

Morbidity and mortality in T1DM depend on metabolic control, which is assessed by HbA1c measurements every 3–4 months. Patients’ self-perception of glycemic control depends on daily blood glucose monitoring. Little is known about the congruence of patients’ and professionals’ perception of metabolic control in T1DM.

Objective

To assess the actual patients’ self-perception and objective assessment (HbA1c) of metabolic control in T1DM children and adolescents and to investigate the possible factors involved in any difference.

Methods

Patients with T1DM aged 8 – 18 years were recruited in a cross-sectional, retrospective and prospective cohort study. Data collection consisted of clinical details, measured HbA1c, self-monitored blood glucose values and questionnaires assessing self and professionals’ judgment of metabolic control.

Results

91 patients participated. Mean HbA1c was 8.03%. HbA1c was higher in patients with a diabetes duration > 2 years (p = 0.025) and in patients of lower socioeconomic level (p = 0.032). No significant correlation was found for self-perception of metabolic control in well and poorly controlled patients. We found a trend towards false-positive memory of the last HbA1c in patients with a HbA1c > 8.5% (p = 0.069) but no difference in patients’ knowledge on target HbA1c between well and poorly controlled patients.

Conclusions

T1DM patients are aware of a target HbA1c representing good metabolic control. Ill controlled patients appear to have a poorer recollection of their HbA1c. Self-perception of actual metabolic control is similar in well and poorly controlled T1DM children and adolescents. Therefore, professionals should pay special attention that ill controlled T1DM patients perceive their HbA1c correctly.
Experimental gastritis leads to anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in female but not male rats
Authors: Luo Jia , Wang Tao , Liang Shan , Hu Xu , Li Wei , Jin Feng
Published: December 2013

Human and animals studies support the idea that there is a gender-related co-morbidity of pain-related and inflammatory gastrointestinal (GI) diseases with psychological disorders. This co-morbidity is the evidence for the existence of GI-brain axis which consists of immune (cytokines), neural (vagus nerve) and neuroendocrine (HPA axis) pathways. Psychological stress causes disturbances in GI physiology, such as altered GI barrier function, changes in motility and secretion, development of visceral hypersensitivity, and dysfunction of inflammatory responses. Whether GI inflammation would exert impact on psychological behavior is not well established. We examined the effect of experimental gastritis on anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in male and female Sprague–Dawley rats, and evaluated potential mechanisms of action. Gastritis was induced by adding 0.1% (w/v) iodoacetamide (IAA) to the sterile drinking water for 7 days. Sucrose preference test assessed the depression-like behavior, open field test and elevated plus maze evaluated the anxiety-like behavior. IAA treatment induced gastric inflammation in rats of either gender. No behavioral abnormality or dysfunction of GI-brain axis was observed in male rats with IAA-induced gastritis. Anxiety- and depression-like behaviors were apparent and the HPA axis was hyperactive in female rats with IAA-induced gastritis. Our results show that gastric inflammation leads to anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in female but not male rats via the neuroendocrine (HPA axis) pathway, suggesting that the GI inflammation can impair normal brain function and induce changes in psychological behavior in a gender-related manner through the GI-to-brain signaling.
Features of wild-type human SOD1 limit interactions with misfolded aggregates of mouse G86R Sod1
Authors: Qualls David A , Prudencio Mercedes , Roberts Brittany LT , Crosby Keith , Brown Hilda , Borchelt David R
Published: December 2013

Mutations in the gene encoding superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) account for about 20% of the cases of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (fALS). It is well established that mutations in SOD1, associated with fALS, heighten the propensity of the protein to misfold and aggregate. Although aggregation appears to be a factor in the toxicity of mutant SOD1s, the precise nature of this toxicity has not been elucidated. A number of other studies have now firmly established that raising the levels of wild-type (WT) human SOD1 (hSOD1) proteins can in some manner augment the toxicity of mutant hSOD1 proteins. However, a recent study demonstrated that raising the levels of WT-hSOD1 did not affect disease in mice that harbor a mouseSod1gene (mSod1) encoding a well characterized fALS mutation (G86R). In the present study, we sought a potential explanation for the differing effects with WT-hSOD1 on the toxicity of mutant hSOD1 versus mutantmSod1. In the cell culture models used here, we observe poor interactions between WT-hSOD1 and misfolded G86R-mSod1, possibly explaining why over-expression of WT-hSOD1 does not synergize with mutant mSod1 to accelerate the course of the disease in mice.
Camelus dromedarius brucellosis and its public health associated risks in the Afar National Regional State in northeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Wesinew Adugna , Tessema Tesfaye Sisay , Melaku Simenew Keskes
Published: December 2013

Background

A cross-sectional study was carried out in four districts of the Afar region in Ethiopia to determine the prevalence of brucellosis in camels, and to identify risky practices that would facilitate the transmission of zoonoses to humans. This study involved testing 461 camels and interviewing 120 livestock owners. The modified Rose Bengal plate test (mRBPT) and complement fixation test (CFT) were used as screening and confirmatory tests, respectively. SPSS 16 was used to analyze the overall prevalence and potential risk factors for seropositivity, using a multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

In the camel herds tested, 5.4% had antibodies against Brucella species, and the district level seroprevalence ranged from 11.7% to 15.5% in camels. The logistic regression model for camels in a herd size > 20 animals (OR = 2.8; 95% CI: 1.16-6.62) and greater than four years of age (OR = 4.9; 95% CI: 1.45-16.82) showed a higher risk of infection when compared to small herds and those ≤ 4 years old. The questionnaire survey revealed that most respondents did not know about the transmission of zoonotic diseases, and that their practices could potentially facilitate the transmission of zoonotic pathogens.

Conclusions

The results of this study revealed that camel brucellosis is prevalent in the study areas. Therefore, there is a need for implementing control measures and increasing public awareness in the prevention methods of brucellosis.