bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melanoma in Buckinghamshire: Data from the Inception of the Skin Cancer Multidisciplinary Team
Authors: Cubitt J. J. , Khan A. A. , Royston E. , Rughani M. , Middleton M. R. , Budny P. G
Published: September 2013

Background.Melanoma incidence is increasing faster than any other cancer in the UK. The introduction of specialist skin cancer multidisciplinary teams intends to improve the provision of care to patients suffering from melanoma. This study aims to investigate the management and survival of patients diagnosed with melanoma around the time of inception of the regional skin cancer multidisciplinary team both to benchmark the service against published data and to enable future analysis of the impact of the specialisation of skin cancer care.Methods.All patients diagnosed with primary cutaneous melanoma between January 1, 2003 and December 3, 2005 were identified. Data on clinical and histopathological features, surgical procedures, complications, disease recurrence and 5-year survival were collected and analysed.Results.Two hundred and fourteen patients were included, 134 female and 80 males. Median Breslow thickness was 0.74 mm (0.7 mm female and 0.8 mm male). Overall 5-year survival was 88% (90% female and 85% male).Discussion.Melanoma incidence in Buckinghamshire is in keeping with published data. Basic demographics details concur with classic melanoma distribution and more recent trends, with increased percentage of superficial spreading and thin melanomas, leading to improved survival are reflected.
Accuracy of Implant Placement Utilizing Customized Patient Instrumentation in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Bugbee William D. , Mizu-uchi Hideki , Patil Shantanu , D'Lima Darryl
Published: September 2013

Customized patient instrumentation (CPI) combines preoperative planning with customized cutting jigs to position and align implants during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We compared postoperative implant alignment of patients undergoing surgery with CPI to traditional TKA instrumentation for accuracy of implant placement. Twenty-five consecutive TKAs using CPI were analyzed. Preoperative CT scans of the lower extremities were segmented using a computer program. Limb alignment and mechanical axis were computed. Virtual implantation of computer-aided design models was done. Postoperative coronal and sagittal view radiographs were obtained. Using 3D image-matching software, relative positions of femoral and tibial implants were determined. Twenty-five TKAs implanted using traditional instrumentation were also analyzed. For CPI, difference in alignment from the preoperative plan was calculated. In the CPI group, the mean absolute difference between the planned and actual femoral placements was 0.67° in the coronal plane and 1.2° in the sagittal plane. For tibial alignment, the mean absolute difference was 0.9° in the coronal plane and 1.3° in the sagittal plane. For traditional instrumentation, difference from ideal placement for the femur was 1.5° in the coronal plane and 2.3° in the sagittal plane. For the tibia, the difference was 1.8° in the coronal plane. CPI achieved accurate implant positioning and was superior to traditional TKA instrumentation.
Multiple Model Adaptive Nonlinear Observer of Dynamic Positioning Ship
Authors: Xie Yehai , Lin Xiaogong , Bian Xinqian , Zhao Dawei
Published: September 2013

Considering the filtering problem of dynamic positioning (DP) ship for the slowly varying sea state, a multiple model adaptive observer (MMAO) for dynamic positioning ship is presented. The MMAO consists of a bank of nonlinear subobserver and a dynamic weighting signal generator, in which each sub-observer is designed based on different peak frequency of wave spectrum model. To improve the performance of the observer, subobserver using the measurement of position, velocity, and acceleration is used to update the estimated velocity of ship. The observer parameters are optimized using particle swarm optimization (PSO). Finally, the method is verified effective by the computer simulation.
Stem Cell Therapy in Bladder Dysfunction: Where Are We? And Where Do We Have to Go?
Authors: Kim Jae Heon , Lee Sang-Rae , Song Yun Seob , Lee Hong Jun
Published: September 2013

To date, stem cell therapy for the bladder has been conducted mainly on an experimental basis in the areas of bladder dysfunction. The therapeutic efficacy of stem cells was originally thought to be derived from their ability to differentiate into various cell types. Studies about stem cell therapy for bladder dysfunction have been limited to an experimental basis and have been less focused than bladder regeneration. Bladder dysfunction was listed in MESH as “urinary bladder neck obstruction”, “urinary bladder, overactive”, and “urinary bladder, neurogenic”. Using those keywords, several articles were searched and studied. The bladder dysfunction model includes bladder outlet obstruction, cryoinjured, diabetes, ischemia, and spinal cord injury. Adipose derived stem cells (ADSCs), bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs), and skeletal muscle derived stem cells (SkMSCs) are used for transplantation to treat bladder dysfunction. The main mechanisms of stem cells to reconstitute or restore bladder dysfunction are migration, differentiation, and paracrine effects. The aim of this study is to review the stem cell therapy for bladder dysfunction and to provide the status of stem cell therapy for bladder dysfunction.
Sex Differences in Associations of Depressive Symptoms with Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Metabolic Syndrome among African Americans
Authors: Cooper Denise C. , Trivedi Ranak B. , Nelson Karin M. , Reiber Gayle E. , Zonderman Alan B. , Evans Michele K. , Waldstein Shari R.
Published: September 2013

Young to middle-aged women usually have notably lower rates of cardiovascular disease (CVD) than their male counterparts, but African American women lack this advantage. Their elevated CVD may be influenced by sex differences in associations between depressed mood and CVD risk factors. This cross-sectional study examined whether relations between scores on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression (CES-D) scale and a spectrum of CVD risk factors varied by sex among African Americans (n=1076; ages 30–64) from the Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study. Sex-stratified multiple regressions and logistic regressions were conducted. Among women, CES-D scores correlated positively with systolic blood pressure and waist-to-hip ratio (P's<.05), but inversely with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P<.01). Women had twice the odds for metabolic syndrome if CES-D scores ≥16 and had a ≥14% increase in odds of hypertension, abdominal obesity, and low HDL-C with each 5-unit increase in CES-D scores. Among men, CES-D scores correlated positively with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P<.05), and odds of hypertension increased by 21% with each 5-unit increase in CES-D scores. Depressive symptoms may promote premature CVD risk in African Americans, at least in part, via CVD risk factors and prevalent metabolic syndrome, particularly in African American women.
Dietary Folate Intake and Blood Biomarkers Reveal High-Risk Groups in a Mediterranean Population of Healthy Women of Childbearing Potential
Authors: Agodi Antonella , Barchitta Martina , Valenti Giovanna , Quattrocchi Annalisa , Marchese Anna Elisa , Oliveri Conti Gea , Fallico Roberto , Sciacca Salvatore , Ferrante Margherita
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: An important public health issue is monitoring folate inadequacy in women of childbearing potential. The aim of the present study was to investigate associations between folate intake, red blood cell (RBC) folate, total homocysteine (tHcy) and the MTHFR 677T allele. Methods: A total of 204 women were enrolled in a cross-sectional study. Folate intake was assessed by a food frequency questionnaire, and RBC folate, tHcy and MTHFR C677T genotype were determined. Results: About half of the women had a decreased RBC folate level (<305 nmol/l) and all were <906 nmol/l, even though 51% of the subjects reported use of supplements. Overall 91.5% had a high Hcy concentration. Notably, younger women, and those with a low level of education, were shown to be at higher risk of inadequate RBC folate levels. Additionally, younger women were also at higher risk of carrying the TT genotype, particularly unfavorable in the setting of a low folate status. Conclusions: Our study revealed significant folate deficiency in our Mediterranean population and higher than ideal Hcy concentrations, thus emphasizing that in these groups an improvement in the folate status is needed via a food-based approach or supplement. Consequently, public health policy strategies aiming at improved supplementation are required.
Effects of Fusaric Acid Treatment on HEp2 and Docetaxel-Resistant HEp2 Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ye Jian , Montero Meredith , Stack Jr. Brendan C.
Published: September 2013

Background: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) can become resistant to some chemotherapy and becomes a clinical challenge when it recurs. There are few agents identified for second-line treatment of resistant head and neck cancer. Therefore, we evaluated the role of fusaric acid (FA) as a possible agent for treatment for chemotherapy-resistant laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: The HEp2 and docetaxel-resistant HEp2 (HEp-Doc) cell lines were created from human laryngeal cancer. Cell lines were exposed to FA at increasing concentrations (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mM) and time intervals of 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. The effects on cell survival, apoptosis, and cytokine and protein expression were analyzed. Results: FA treatment in the HEp-Doc cells showed greater reduction of cell number and colony-forming units and more apoptosis when compared to HEp2 and required less time to reduce cell number. Four cytokines were detected in HEp2 cancer cells that increased with FA treatment. Pro-caspase-9 and -7 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase also increased with FA treatment. Conclusion: FA may be an agent to be considered in cases of HNSCC treatment resistance or post-docetaxel recurrence. Further investigation of FA in vitro and in vivo is indicated.
Diastolic Dysfunction and High Levels of New Cardiac Biomarkers as Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Quiroga Borja , Villaverde Maite , Abad Soraya , Vega Almudena , Reque Javier , López-Gómez Juan M.
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: Cardiovascular events (CVEs) are the most frequent cause of death in hemodialysis (HD). We aim to determine cardiovascular and mortality risk factors. Methods: A historical cohort study was made of 211 prevalent HD patients [73 (60-80) years, 58% males] between 2005 and 2012. Demographic, laboratory test and echocardiographic values were recorded. During follow-up, CVEs and mortality were documented and analyzed. Results: 94 patients suffered a CVE. Age, history of cardiovascular disease (CVD), peripheral vascular disease, cardiac markers, systolic and diastolic dysfunction (DD) were associated to CVEs. Low albumin (RR 0.414, p = 0.002), DD (1.876, p = 0.038) and previous CVD (3.723, p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of CVEs. 98 patients died. Age, a history of CVD, peripheral vascular disease, cardiac markers, DD, dialysis vintage, and a vascular access different from autologous fistulae were associated to mortality. Low albumin (RR 0.499, p = 0.046), DD (RR 2.414, p = 0.017) and a vascular access different from autologous fistulae (RR 2.058, p = 0.034) were independent predictors of mortality. Conclusions: DD is an emergent risk factor for death and CVEs in dialysis. Low albumin is also a predictor for CVE. Non-autologous fistulae and low albumin are predictors for death. Nt-proBNP and hsTnT offer good information for identifying high-risk patients, but they do not predict events independently as they are only cardiac damage markers.
Detection Rate of Trisomy 21 in Fetuses with Isolated and Non-Isolated Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery
Authors: Corbacioglu Esmer Aytul , Gul Ahmet , Nehir Aslı , Yuksel Atil , Dural Ozlem , Kalelioglu Ibrahim , Has Recep , Demiroren Tanju
Published: September 2013

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of chromosomal anomalies among the fetuses with isolated and non-isolated aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA), and to evaluate the sonographic findings associated with ARSA. Methods: This is a retrospective study conducted during the period between January 2008 and December 2012 at the maternal fetal medicine units of three different referral centers. Results: Among the 148 cases of ARSA, 98 were isolated and 50 were associated with cardiac anomalies, extracardiac malformations or soft markers. Trisomy 21 was the only chromosomal anomaly with a prevalence of 6.8% (10/148). The corresponding rate was 6.1% (6/98) and 8% (4/50) for isolated and non-isolated ARSA, respectively. Cardiac anomalies, extracardiac findings and soft markers were detected in 5.4% (8), 10.8% (16) and 24.3% (36) of cases, respectively. Among the 10 fetuses with trisomy 21, 6 were isolated, 4 were associated with soft markers, 2 were associated with fetal growth restriction and 1 was associated with hydrops fetalis. Cardiac anomalies were not observed in any of these fetuses. Conclusion: The prenatal diagnosis of ARSA should prompt meticulous anatomic survey, and karyotype analysis might be offered even in the absence of associated findings.
Two new species of the coffinfish genus Chaunax (Lophiiformes: Chaunacidae) from the Indian Ocean
Authors: HO HSUAN-CHING , LAST PETER R.
Published: September 2013

Two new coffinfishes, Chaunax nebulosus n. sp. and Chaunax africanus n. sp., are described from the Indian Ocean. Both species belong to the C. fimbriatus-species group which is characterised by having filaments on the dorsal head and a complex color pattern on the dorsal surface. They are morphometrically and meristically conservative but differ in coloration. Chaunax nebulosus can be distinguished from its closest relatives by its dense covering of very small, irregular grayish green spots and having 5 small blackish markings on its dorsal surface. Chaunax africanus can be distinguished from other members  in having a colour pattern of long narrow brown bars on the dorsal-fin base and head (forming a radiate pattern around the eye), and a complex white reticulate pattern (often double-lined) over the entire dorsal surface. Comments on species occurring in Indian Ocean and the status of members of C. fimbriatus-species group are also provided.
A comment on the oral dermal flaps of Elachistocleis Parker, 1927 (Anura: Microhylidae) larvae
Authors: LAUFER GABRIEL , PEREYRA LAURA C. , AKMENTINS MAURICIO S. , BORTEIRO CLAUDIO
Published: September 2013

The Neotropical frog genus Elachistocleis Parker consists of 17 species, most of them described in the last two decades. External morphology characters traditionally used in anuran systematics to distinguish among species, such as skin texture, dermal protuberances, cranial chests and nuptial pads, are of relative value in Elachistocleis (Pereyra et al. 2013). In addition, the majority of species descriptions do not include relevant biological data like advertisement call, osteology, and tadpole morphology. In the context of the integrative taxonomy, the availability of these data are crucial to improve our understanding of the evolution and systematic of genus Elachistocleis. Particularly, tadpole characters can be an important tool for species identification and phylogenetic reconstructions (Altig 2007; Haas 2003; McDiarmid & Altig 1999).
Parameter Spaces of Environmental Fields Responsible for Cyclone Development from Tropics to Extratropics
Authors: Yanase Wataru , Niino Hiroshi , Hodges Kevin , Kitabatake Naoko
Published: September 2013

Objective cyclone tracking applied to a 30-yr reanalysis dataset shows that cyclone development in the summer and autumn seasons is active in the tropics and extratropics and inactive in the subtropics. To understand this geographically bimodal distribution of cyclone development associated with tropical and extratropical cyclones quantitatively, the direct relationship between cyclone types and their environments are assessed by using a parameter space of environmental variables [environmental parameter space (EPS)]. The number of cyclones is analyzed in terms of two different factors: the environmental conditions favorable for cyclone development and the area size that satisfies the favorable condition. The EPS analysis is mainly conducted for two representative environmental parameters that are commonly used for cyclone analysis: potential intensity for tropical cyclones and baroclinicity for extratropical cyclones. The geographically bimodal distribution is attributed to the high sensitivity of the cyclone development to the change in the environmental fields from tropics to extratropics. In addition, the bimodal distribution is partly attributed to the rapid change in the environmental fields from tropics to extratropics. The EPS analysis also shows that other environmental parameters, including relative humidity and vertical velocity, may enhance the contrast between the tropics (extratropics) and subtropics, whereas they are not essential for determining cyclone types. The relationship between cyclones and their environments is found to be similar between the hemispheres in the EPS, although the geographical distribution, particularly the longitudinal uniformity, is markedly different between the hemispheres.
Turbulence Process Domination under the Combined Forcings of Wind Stress, the Langmuir Vortex Force, and Surface Cooling
Authors: Gargett A. E. , Grosch C. E.
Published: September 2013

Turbulence in the ocean surface layer is generated by time-varying combinations of destabilizing surface buoyancy flux, wind stress forcing, and wave forcing through a vortex force associated with the surface wave field. Observations of time- and depth-averaged vertical velocity variance of full-depth turbulence in shallow unstratified water columns under destabilizing buoyancy forcing are used to determine when process domination can be assigned over a wide range of mixed forcings. The properties of two turbulence archetypes, one representing full-depth Langmuir circulations and the other representing full-depth convection, are described in detail. It is demonstrated that these archetypes lie in distinct regions of the plane of , where and are Langmuir and Rayleigh numbers, respectively, derived from scaling with surface stress velocity and a time scale characteristic of the growth of Langmuir circulation , where and are mean and Stokes velocities, respectively. Situations in which neither process dominates lie between the two end members, with relative dominance given by proximity to one or the other. Cases dominated by direct stress forcing are conspicuous by their absence. In cases of Langmuir domination, surface Stokes velocity is linearly related to , making it impossible to differentiate between scaling depth-averaged vertical velocity variance with , and any other scaling involving both and . A third nondimensional parameter is introduced and used to assess the importance of bottom boundary layer turbulence in a depth-limited system. Questions of time dependence and applicability of results to the open ocean surface boundary layer are considered.
Disclosure of Information About English Proficiency
Authors: Cheatham Gregory A. , Jimenez-Silva Margarita , Wodrich David L. , Kasai Masahiro
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this analog study was to determine if increased access to information about a hypothetical English Language Learner (ELL) students’ language proficiency increased preservice teachers’ recognition that limited English proficiency is the likely cause of student difficulties. We find that the provision of increasing levels of information about the student’s English proficiency was associated with preservice teachers’ recognition that limited English proficiency was the likely cause of the student’s classroom difficulties. We also find no differences between groups based on preservice teachers’ education major. This study has implications for avoiding inappropriate referrals for special education evaluation and appropriately meeting ELL students’ instructional needs.
The domestication of foreign news: news stories related to the 2011 Egyptian revolution in British, Finnish and Pakistani newspapers
Authors: Alasuutari Pertti , Qadir Ali , Creutz Karin
Published: September 2013

The article studies the domestication of foreign news by identifying the different ways in which the Egyptian revolt was reported and discussed in Britain, Finland and Pakistan. The data comprise the press coverage of the 2011 events in three newspapers: The Times in Britain, Helsingin Sanomat ( HS) in Finland, and the Daily Times in Pakistan. We argue that, in addition to journalists, there are other agents who contribute to domesticating foreign news items. This makes understandable the unexpected differences between the three newspapers. One might assume that coverage of the Arab Spring would have been more impartial and less emotional in Britain and Finland than in Pakistan, which is culturally closer to Egypt. The opposite was true, however. The coverage of the events in Daily Times primarily consisted of hard news. The Times and HS, on the other hand, sent their reporters onsite, and the news stories used several discursive means to bring the events experientially closer to their readers. Yet, the Egypt uprising was used as a lever in domestic politics more forcefully in Pakistan. That is because the uprising was domesticated to local politics by other actors than just journalists.
The power of art, the power of entertainment
Authors: McKee Alan
Published: September 2013

The question of the relationship between culture and power continues to exercise researchers. In this commentary I argue that it is useful to consider the differences between ‘art’ and ‘entertainment’ as systems of culture, each involving a distinct set of power relationships between producers and audiences. Art wants to change audiences; entertainment wants to be changed by audiences. From these different starting points a series of differences unfold in the power possessed by producers and audiences. Artists pride themselves on not involving the audience in the process of making art. By contrast, entertainment wants audiences to contribute to the making of texts. As to the question of who controls the range forms of culture that are available, it seems that entertainment consumers – unlike art consumers – are ill-disciplined. Historical evidence demonstrates that if legal corporate providers do not offer the kinds of entertainment they want, they will turn to illegal sources. The different ways in which ‘art’ and ‘entertainment’ function as cultural systems suggest that we must rethink our positions on ‘media power’.
Does Encouragement by Others Increase Rape Reporting? Findings From a National Sample of Women
Authors: Paul Lisa A. , Zinzow Heidi M. , McCauley Jenna L. , Kilpatrick Dean G. , Resnick Heidi S.
Published: September 2013

Our study explores the role of victims’ consultation with others about whether or not to report their rape to police. Three groups were observed within this sample of 435 rape victims from a national telephone household probability sample of women: those who did not consult with anyone about reporting ( n = 364), those who consulted with someone and were encouraged to report to police ( n = 40), and those who consulted with someone and were not encouraged to report ( n = 31). Descriptive analyses indicated that the encouraged group was more likely to report to police than either of the other two groups (which did not differ from each other). Because there were no differences between the two consulting groups on demographic or rape-related variables, they were combined in subsequent analyses. Consulting with others about whether to report, peri-traumatic fear of injury or death, assault perpetration by a stranger, and concerns about contracting a sexually transmitted disease were significant predictors of reporting to police after controlling for other significant predictors in a multivariate regression analysis. Implications of these findings are discussed, including the benefits and consequences of formal rape reporting for victims, and the role that disclosure recipients may have in assisting victims postrape (e.g., encouragement of reporting, emotional support).
Investigation of locomotive multibody modelling issues and results assessment based on the locomotive model acceptance procedure
Authors: Spiryagin Maksym , George Andrew , Sun Yan Quan , Cole Colin , McSweeney Tim , Simson Scott
Published: September 2013

The acceptable dynamic behaviour of railway locomotives is governed by different standards in different parts of the world. Some standards allow the use of multibody simulation tools (such as VAMPIRE, NUCARS, GENSYS and SIMPACK) in place of physical testing, but generally not for all locomotive tests within each standard. Virtual multibody locomotive models can allow simple analyses, such as for slightly modified and relocated locomotives, to be completed in less time, and lower cost and effort in comparison with physical type testing. Unfortunately, the detailed locomotive model acceptance procedures required to achieve this for locomotive designs do not presently exist. This paper discusses the methodology behind a proposed locomotive model acceptance procedure that is currently intended for Australian freight locomotives, although it can be modified to suit other countries and locomotive types. A review of relevant international standards was first undertaken to determine which tests to include and to draw from international best practice. A few case studies are then given to show how the proposed methodology can be implemented on a heavy haul locomotive model.
Rail squats: progress in understanding the Australian experience
Authors: Daniel William JT , Pal Sarvesh , Farjoo Mohammadali
Published: September 2013

Rail squats or studs, being a sub-surface crack in a track below a depression of the rail surface, have been studied in the Australian CRC for Rail Innovation project R3.105, from a number of perspectives. Examination of squats on track by the Rail Corporation of NSW has revealed statistics about their distribution. Examination with optical and scanning electron microscopy at the University of Queensland has shown the frequent presence of a brittle white etching layer (WEL) on the rail surface. This has led to successful adaptation of eddy currents to detect WEL rather than cracks. Tests at the University of Queensland have investigated whether the WEL can form below the normal 720℃ needed to form austenite. Examination of crack surfaces shows beach marks indicative of growth in modes II and III. Neutron diffraction testing of Australian rail has shown residual stresses in a railhead with a WEL, similar to those reported elsewhere, but with a broad surface layer in compression, not a narrow running band. Elasto-plastic finite element simulation has shown residual compression transforms into residual shear at a crack tip, which increases that due to plastic deformation from successive wheel passages, tending to encourage the crack to continue in a direction of sub-surface growth. The rate of growth of squats measured on-track in Sydney shows crack growth that corresponds to a power law with a low exponent, implying that the stress intensity at the crack tip is not a strong function of crack length. This is partly due to the localised nature of contact stresses, which allows the crack to grow beyond the region loaded. However, accounting for this effect leads to the prediction of a smaller reduction in growth rate than that observed. It is likely the low exponent reflects a smaller effect of water on crack growth, as the crack enlarges. There is also a redistribution of contact loading that occurs as a crack grows.
Estimating the robustness of long-haul train plans
Authors: Pudney Peter , Albrecht Amie , Bunker Jonathan , Howlett Phil
Published: September 2013

In Australia, and elsewhere, the movement of trains on long-haul rail networks is usually planned in advance. Typically, a train plan is developed to confirm that the required train movements and track maintenance activities can occur. The plan specifies when track segments will be occupied by particular trains and maintenance activities. On the day of operation, a train controller monitors and controls the movement of trains and maintenance crews, and updates the train plan in response to unplanned disruptions.

It can be difficult to predict how good a plan will be in practice. The main performance indicator for a train service should be reliability – the proportion of trains running the service that complete at or before the scheduled time.

We define the robustness of a planned train service to be the expected reliability. The robustness of individual train services and for a train plan as a whole can be estimated by simulating the train plan many times with random, but realistic, perturbations to train departure times and segment durations, and then analysing the distributions of arrival times. This process can also be used to set arrival times that will achieve a desired level of robustness for each train service.
Detecting anomalous events at railway level crossings
Authors: Nallaivarothayan Hajananth , Ryan David , Denman Simon , Sridharan Sridha , Fookes Clinton , Rakotonirainy Andry
Published: September 2013

Collisions between pedestrians and vehicles continue to be a major problem throughout the world. Pedestrians trying to cross roads and railway tracks without any caution are often highly susceptible to collisions with vehicles and trains. Continuous financial, human and other losses have prompted transport related organizations to come up with various solutions addressing this issue. However, the quest for new and significant improvements in this area is still ongoing. This work addresses this issue by building a general framework using computer vision techniques to automatically monitor pedestrian movements in such high-risk areas to enable better analysis of activity, and the creation of future alerting strategies. As a result of rapid development in the electronics and semi-conductor industry there is extensive deployment of CCTV cameras in public places to capture video footage. This footage can then be used to analyse crowd activities in those particular places. This work seeks to identify the abnormal behaviour of individuals in video footage. In this work we propose using a Semi-2D Hidden Markov Model (HMM), Full-2D HMM and Spatial HMM to model the normal activities of people. The outliers of the model (i.e. those observations with insufficient likelihood) are identified as abnormal activities. Location features, flow features and optical flow textures are used as the features for the model. The proposed approaches are evaluated using the publicly available UCSD datasets, and we demonstrate improved performance using a Semi-2D Hidden Markov Model compared to other state of the art methods. Further we illustrate how our proposed methods can be applied to detect anomalous events at rail level crossings.
Investigation of the effect of lateral adhesion and rolling speed on wheel squeal noise
Authors: Liu Xiaogang , Meehan Paul A
Published: September 2013

In order to validate prediction models of wheel squeal, a rolling contact test rig is used to investigate fundamental squeal behaviour. The vibration characteristics of the wheel are investigated using analytical and finite element methods, and by experimental impact hammer analysis, respectively. Accordingly, the lateral resonant frequencies and mode shapes of the wheel are determined. A dominant mode is identified based on this as the primary peak in the sound spectrum of squeal and is used as an indicator of the occurrence and magnitude of squeal. The lateral creep curves and amplitudes of wheel vibration at various rolling speeds are measured using a strain gauge technique and predicted. A simplified model including the interaction between lateral force and transverse vibration of the dominant mode is developed, and the experimental and simulated results show the sound pressure level and vibration velocity of the wheel increases substantially as the angle of attack reaches and exceeds the value around 8 mrad. The phenomenon of double peaks in the sound spectrum of wheel squeal is also investigated. It is found that the cause of double peaks is due to the wheel rotation and the frequency divergence of double peaks increases with rolling speed as predicted theoretically.
Keeping track workers safe: a socio-technical analysis of emerging systems and technology
Authors: Noorudheen Nusra , McClanachan Mitchell , Toft Yvonne , Dell Geoffrey
Published: September 2013

Track maintenance work is one of the most hazardous jobs in the rail industry. Track workers are in danger of being fatally injured by rail traffic either on the track they are working on or on adjacent tracks. The rail industry has developed many safe working procedures and protection systems to minimise the risk. The Australian rail industry is now trialling new technology that automatically warns the track workers of approaching trains. These technologies may be added to or ultimately replace the current safe working procedures. As there are different products and technologies available for track worker protection it is not clear which technology is best for the Australian rail environment. The CRC for Rail Innovation project ‘R3.120-Track Worker Protection Technology’ aims to identify and compare systems that improve protection for track workers. Commercially available systems use different types of technologies and have different safety integrity levels. The effectiveness of a safety system is not only dependent on the technology but also the track workers who operate and are protected by the system. Short-term trials may not highlight all issues across the systems’ life cycle so to analyse these socio-technical systems in a relatively short time period a specifically adapted hazard and operability (HAZOP) study is being undertaken. The HAZOP study evaluates both the technical and human factor aspects of the system utilising an expert team. Initially one of the commercially available track worker protection systems was selected as the base for the HAZOP and other track worker protection systems will be analysed based on the issues identified with the initial system. This paper discusses the ‘Track Worker Protection Technology’ project, the track worker protection technology that is available and the adapted HAZOP used to analyse a track worker safety system as a socio-technical system.
Conceptual designs of hybrid locomotives for application as heavy haul trains on typical track lines
Authors: Sun Yan , Cole Colin , Spiryagin Maksym , Godber Tony , Hames Stewart , Rasul Mohammad
Published: September 2013

A computer simulation technique has been used to study and evaluate the potential for the application of hybrid locomotives to heavy haul operations on two typical track routes in Australia. The study envisages typical pit-to-port operations with large altitude changes. The train energy usage and the energy created by dynamic braking are analysed based on the simulation results. It is shown that the locomotives operate at an average power that is much less than full power. It is found that there is potential for hybrid heavy haul locomotive applications. Suggested methods and concept designs are proposed. Sizing of the energy storage system when it contained batteries, super-capacitors and flywheels was carried out for comparison purposes. The merits and problems with each concept are discussed.
Modelling risk at low-exposure railway level crossings: supporting an argument for low-cost level crossing warning devices with lower levels of safety integrity
Authors: Wullems Christian , Hughes Peter , Nikandros George
Published: September 2013

This paper describes a risk model for estimating the likelihood of collisions at low-exposure railway level crossings, demonstrating the effect that differences in safety integrity can have on the likelihood of a collision. The model facilitates the comparison of safety benefits between level crossings with passive controls (stop or give-way signs) and level crossings that have been hypothetically upgraded with conventional or low-cost warning devices. The scenario presented illustrates how treatment of a cross-section of level crossings with low-cost devices can provide a greater safety benefit compared with treatment with conventional warning devices for the same budget.
Study of the acoustic resonance occurring in a multistage high-speed axial compressor
Authors: Courtiade Nicolas , Ottavy Xavier
Published: September 2013

A study of the acoustic resonance occurring and leading to surge in the 3½-stage high-speed compressor CREATE (rotation speed: 11543 r/min, rotor 1 tip speed: 313 m/s) is presented in this paper. It is based on high-frequency wall static pressure measurements performed all along the machine from peak efficiency to surge. In this paper, a model of acoustic resonance will be applied to the experimental results. The axial distribution of the amplitude of the acoustic modes is first analyzed. Then, a study of the reflections occurring in the machine will be done in order to understand the mechanisms responsible for the resonance.
A Study on Value Profile of Indian Managers
Authors: Sarangi Arpita , Kartha B. Sunil
Published: September 2013

The present globalized era is a rapid changing era. To prove themselves, all are running, but running after what nobody knows. But in the event of proving they have to compromise with two values, that is, one is in personal value and other is work value. It is very difficult to keep a balance between the two. The present study tried to find out the same with a sample size of 262 executives from a public sector enterprise of India including male & female and salaried & non salaried spouse. The data collected from the above sample through a tool with the objectives of finding out the difference of value profile between general life and work life of executives and prioritization of each value life. Result shows that there is no significant difference between two life values in the above organization. As far as gender differentiation is concerned female attach more value to general life value than work life value in comparison to the male executives. All the groups gave more importance to work value than general value. But in both the values they prioritize ‘meaningfulness’ component as an important one. So it can be inferred that executives are able to strike a balance between both the value system in work set up or the organization is giving such a culture where general life values are being taken care of properly.
Mapping Emotional Competencies of Mahatma Gandhi: A Biographical Analysis Approach
Authors: Bansal Ipshita , Hingorani Priti
Published: September 2013

The aim of this article is to map the emotional competencies of Mahatma1 Gandhi through biographical analysis of his life which is divided into seven phases, as this will give the real insight that how he managed his emotions in different phases of his life and over the longer period of time. The Emotional Competency Inventory (ECI) framework given by Daniel Goleman is used, which helps in mapping the Emotional Competencies on five parameters i.e., Self Awareness, Self Regulation, Self Motivation, Empathy, Social Skills. Further, the article brings out that which particular component was low, medium or high in which particular phase of his life.
Consumer Protection Law in Ancient India
Authors: Goyal Pratibha , Goyal Mini , Goyal Shailja
Published: September 2013

It is the primary duty of business to satisfy consumer by providing quality goods and services at right place, right time, in right quantity at a fair price. The need for consumer protection is recognized by law makers in India since ancient times. It was very well realized that a consumer is prone to exploitation on the part of providers of goods and services. Therefore, the ancient Indian law codes regulated not only social conditions but also the economic life of people by establishing human values and code of trade practices to protect the interests of buyers. This article is mainly based on the detailed study of ancient Indian literature, that is, Manu Smriti, Narada Smriti, Brihaspati Smriti and Arthshastra.
The Juggling Act: Managing Work Family Conflict and Job Satisfaction in Academicians
Authors: Bijawat Swati
Published: September 2013

In today’s competitive world, the pressures of work have been escalating and there is a growing feeling among employees that the demands of work begin to dominate life and a sense of work life imbalance is felt. Thus, finding a balance between work and life in today’s swift world presents a major challenge to both the employer and employee.

This article seeks to explore the variation among men and women academicians with regards to overall job satisfaction, job stressors and work family conflict that influence overall balance among the academicians. Data were collected via questionnaire. T-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to find out the important component to persist balance. The result indicates that women faculty members as compared to the male faculty members exhibit a high degree of dissatisfaction with regards to career, family responsibilities and work life integration issues while balancing the work life domain.
A highly conserved arginine residue of the chitosanase from Streptomyces sp. N174 is involved both in catalysis and substrate binding
Authors: Lacombe-Harvey Marie-Ève , Fortin Mélanie , Ohnuma Takayuki , Fukamizo Tamo , Letzel Thomas , Brzezinski Ryszard
Published: September 2013

Background

Streptomyces sp. N174 chitosanase (CsnN174), a member of glycoside hydrolases family 46, is one of the most extensively studied chitosanases. Previous studies allowed identifying several key residues of this inverting enzyme, such as the two catalytic carboxylic amino acids as well as residues that are involved in substrate binding. In spite of the progress in understanding the catalytic mechanism of this chitosanase, the function of some residues highly conserved throughout GH46 family has not been fully elucidated. This study focuses on one of such residues, the arginine 42.

Results

Mutation of Arg42 into any other amino acid resulted in a drastic loss of enzyme activity. Detailed investigations of R42E and R42K chitosanases revealed that the mutant enzymes are not only impaired in their catalytic activity but also in their mode of interaction with the substrate. Mutated enzymes were more sensitive to substrate inhibition and were altered in their pattern of activity against chitosans of various degrees of deacetylation. Our data show that Arg42 plays a dual role in CsnN174 activity.

Conclusions

Arginine 42 is essential to maintain the enzymatic function of chitosanase CsnN174. We suggest that this arginine is influencing the catalytic nucleophile residue and also the substrate binding mode of the enzyme by optimizing the electrostatic interaction between the negatively charged carboxylic residues of the substrate binding cleft and the amino groups of GlcN residues in chitosan.
Integrative genomic and functional profiling of the pancreatic cancer genome
Authors: Shain A Hunter , Salari Keyan , Giacomini Craig P , Pollack Jonathan R
Published: September 2013

Background

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease with a five-year survival of less than 5%. A better understanding of the underlying biology may suggest novel therapeutic targets. Recent surveys of the pancreatic cancer genome have uncovered numerous new alterations; yet systematic functional characterization of candidate cancer genes has lagged behind. To address this challenge, here we have devised a highly-parallel RNA interference-based functional screen to evaluate many genomically-nominated candidate pancreatic cancer genes simultaneously.

Results

For 185 candidate pancreatic cancer genes, selected from recurrently altered genomic loci, we performed a pooled shRNA library screen of cell growth/viability across 10 different cell lines. Knockdown-associated effects on cell growth were assessed by enrichment or depletion of shRNA hairpins, by hybridization to barcode microarrays. A novel analytical approach (COrrelated Phenotypes for On-Target Effects; COPOTE) was used to discern probable on-target knockdown, based on identifying different shRNAs targeting the same gene and displaying concordant phenotypes across cell lines. Knockdown data were integrated with genomic architecture and gene-expression profiles, and selected findings validated using individual shRNAs and/or independent siRNAs. The pooled shRNA library design delivered reproducible data. In all, COPOTE analysis identified 52 probable on-target gene-knockdowns. Knockdown of known oncogenes (KRAS, MYC, SMURF1 and CCNE1) and a tumor suppressor (CDKN2A) showed the expected contrasting effects on cell growth. In addition, the screen corroborated purported roles of PLEKHG2 and MED29 as 19q13 amplicon drivers. Most notably, the analysis also revealed novel possible oncogenic functions of nucleoporin NUP153 (ostensibly by modulating TGFβ signaling) and Kruppel-like transcription factor KLF5 in pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions

By integrating physical and functional genomic data, we were able to simultaneously evaluate many candidate pancreatic cancer genes. Our findings uncover new facets of pancreatic cancer biology, with possible therapeutic implications. More broadly, our study provides a general strategy for the efficient characterization of candidate genes emerging from cancer genome studies.
Heterogeneity and event dependence in the analysis of sickness absence
Authors: Torá-Rocamora Isabel , Gimeno David , Delclos George , Benavides Fernando G , Manzanera Rafael , Jardí Josefina , Alberti Constança , Yasui Yutaka , Martínez José Miguel
Published: September 2013

Background

Sickness absence (SA) is an important social, economic and public health issue. Identifying and understanding the determinants, whether biological, regulatory or, health services-related, of variability in SA duration is essential for better management of SA. The conditional frailty model (CFM) is useful when repeated SA events occur within the same individual, as it allows simultaneous analysis of event dependence and heterogeneity due to unknown, unmeasured, or unmeasurable factors. However, its use may encounter computational limitations when applied to very large data sets, as may frequently occur in the analysis of SA duration.

Methods

To overcome the computational issue, we propose a Poisson-based conditional frailty model (CFPM) for repeated SA events that accounts for both event dependence and heterogeneity. To demonstrate the usefulness of the model proposed in the SA duration context, we used data from all non-work-related SA episodes that occurred in Catalonia (Spain) in 2007, initiated by either a diagnosis of neoplasm or mental and behavioral disorders.

Results

As expected, the CFPM results were very similar to those of the CFM for both diagnosis groups. The CPU time for the CFPM was substantially shorter than the CFM.

Conclusions

The CFPM is an suitable alternative to the CFM in survival analysis with recurrent events, especially with large databases.