bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular and Molecular Pathways Leading to External Root Resorption
Authors: Iglesias-Linares A. , Hartsfield J.K.
Published: November 2016

External apical root resorption during orthodontic treatment implicates specific molecular pathways that orchestrate nonphysiologic cellular activation. To date, a substantial number of in vitro and in vivo molecular, genomic, and proteomic studies have supplied data that provide new insights into root resorption. Recent mechanisms and developments reviewed here include the role of the cellular component—specifically, the balance of CD68+, iNOS+ M1- and CD68+, CD163+ M2-like macrophages associated with root resorption and root surface repair processes linked to the expression of the M1-associated proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor, inducible nitric oxide synthase, the M1 activator interferon γ, the M2 activator interleukin 4, and M2-associated anti-inflammatory interleukin 10 and arginase I. Insights into the role of mesenchymal dental pulp cells in attenuating dentin resorption in homeostasis are also reviewed. Data on recently deciphered molecular pathways are reviewed at the level of (1) clastic cell adhesion in the external apical root resorption process and the specific role of α/β integrins, osteopontin, and related extracellular matrix proteins; (2) clastic cell fusion and activation by the RANKL/RANK/OPG and ATP-P2RX7-IL1 pathways; and (3) regulatory mechanisms of root resorption repair by cementum at the proteomic and transcriptomic levels.
Stratified Leadership Components and Needs Within Public Rehabilitation
Authors: Sabella Scott A.
Published: November 2016

Leadership is a critical strategic variable within program management as a process that can motivate employees and influence agency performance. Specifically within the field of vocational rehabilitation (VR), there has been little study of the dynamics of leadership and how these influence the agency, employees, and clients. To date, much of the leadership-related research has focused on clinical supervision, yet there remains a need to continue to build the supervision literature base and to broaden the view of leadership to include the conventional strata found in VR agencies: administration, supervision, and direct service (aspiring leaders) levels. The current study outlines a more comprehensive model of leadership within state VR agencies and then explores administrator’s perceptions of important leadership components, needs for further development, and expected vacancies at each level. The findings reveal expectations of high turnover among senior leader positions over the next 5 years, specify important elements of leadership at each level, and identify numerous needs which are not being adequately addressed through current systems. These results hold value in promoting general understanding of leadership functioning in rehabilitation agencies, informing the design of targeted professional development programs, and establishing improved succession planning across organizations.
Electrically conducting linen fabrics for technical applications
Authors: Caringella R , Patrucco A , Simionati M , Gavignano S , Montarsolo A , Mossotti R , Zoccola M , Tonin C , Fabris R , Floria L
Published: November 2016

Conducting linen fabrics were prepared by the in situ oxidative polymerization of pyrrole using ferric chloride as the oxidant and anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonic acid disodium salt as the dopant to enhance conductivity. The effect of the pyrrole concentration on the final performance and properties of the conducting fabrics was evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy showed a polypyrrole layer deposited on the fiber surface associated with penetration into the bulk fiber at the highest concentrations of pyrrole. Saturation of the amorphous domains of the cellulose structure and coating of the fiber surface resulted in good electrical properties, heat development by the Joule effect and reduced moisture adsorption. The mechanical properties and electrical conductivity of the fabrics were affected by the strong acid conditions of the treatment, but significant electrical properties were achieved while preserving up to 70% of the original tensile strength.
Effect of treatment temperature on structures and properties of flax rove in supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Zhang Juan , Zheng Huanda , Zheng Laijiu
Published: November 2016

In this study, flax rove was treated in supercritical carbon dioxide. The effect of different treatment temperatures on the surface morphology, chemical and crystal structures, and thermal properties, as well as isolated compounds of flax rove, were investigated by employing scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermal analysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), respectively. The results showed that more mild grooves and stripes appeared on the surface of the treated flax fibers after supercritical carbon dioxide treatment. FT-IR spectra showed that hydrolysis of macromolecule of flax fibers occurred, producing a C≡C group. XRD spectra confirmed that the crystallinity of the treated flax samples was gradually increased with the raising of treatment temperature. Simultaneously, thermo gravimetric analyzer (TGA), differential thermal gravity (DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated that the thermal properties of flax rove were improved with the increase of treatment temperature. In addition, NMR analysis proved that lignin and the monosaccharide composition of isolated compound were extracted from flax rove. Moreover, a predominance of β–O–4’ arylether linkages, followed by β–5’ phenylcoumaran and β–β’ resinol-type linkages for lignins of isolated compound was shown in NMR. Therefore, the results confirmed that it is technically feasible to using supercritical carbon dioxide to conduct the scouring and bleaching of flax rove.
The politicisation of diversity planning in a global city: Lessons from London
Authors: Raco Mike , Kesten Jamie
Published: November 2016

This paper explores the politics of diversity planning in one of Europe’s most socially and economically divided and globally oriented cities: London. The analysis draws on Latour’s writings on modes of politicisation to examine the processes and practices that shape contemporary urban governance. It uses the example of diversity planning to examine the ‘what’ and ‘how’ of urban politics. It shows that on the one hand diversity is represented in pragmatic, consensual and celebratory terms. Under prevailing conditions of contemporary global capitalism, the ‘what’ of diversity has been politicised into an agenda for labour market-building and the attraction of ‘talented’ individuals and foreign investment. However, at the same time this celebratory rhetoric represents part of a wider effort to deflect political attention away from the socially and economically divisive impacts of global models of economic growth and physical development. There is little discussion of the ways in which planning frameworks, the ‘how’ of diversity policy, are helping to generate new separations in and beyond the city. Moreover, despite claiming that policy is pragmatic and non-ideological, the paper shows how diversity narratives have become an integral part of broader political projects to orientate the city’s economy towards the needs of a relatively small cluster of powerful economic sectors. The paper concludes with reflections on the recent impacts of the vote for Brexit and the election of an openly Muslim London Mayor. It also assesses the broader relevance of a Latourian framework for the analysis of contemporary urban politics.
New efficient chelating polymers based on plastic waste for removal of toxic heavy metal pollutants
Authors: Elhalawany Noha , Baseer Rasha Abdel , Mostafa Abdallah Bakr , Rabei Abdel Gawad
Published: November 2016

New efficient chelating polymers (CPs) based on waste polystyrene functionalized by itaconic acid moieties in absence and presence of montmorillonite clay have been prepared using high shearing effect homogenizer. The obtained CPs have been characterized using spectrophotometric and thermal analyses. The prepared CPs have been used as potential adsorbents for removal of different toxic metal ions from their aqueous solutions. The adsorption performance of the obtained CPs was found to match well with Langmuir adsorption isotherms. The highest sorption affinity of the obtained CPs toward different metal ions was for copper and lead.
Adaptive decentralized fault-tolerant tracking control of a class of uncertain large-scale nonlinear systems with actuator faults
Authors: Yang Yang , Yue Dong
Published: November 2016

We are concerned with the fault-tolerant tracking control affair for a class of large-scale multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) nonlinear systems suffering from actuator failures. Taking advantage of the mean-value theory and the implicit function theorem, the non-affine subsystems are transformed into affine forms. Neural networks (NNs) are utilized to approximate unknown virtual control signals, and then an adaptive NN-based decentralized tracking control strategy is exploited recursively by combining backstepping methods as well as the dynamic surface control (DSC) methodology. In theory, the stability of the resulting whole system is rigorously analysed, where it is proven that all signals remain uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) and the designed strategy can guarantee the convergence of tracking errors via a suitable choice of control parameters. Finally, two simulation examples, both practical and numerical examples, are illustrated to verify the feasibility of the theoretical claims.
Assessing the Accuracy of Generalized Inferences From Comparison Group Studies Using a Within-Study Comparison Approach
Authors: Jaciw Andrew P.
Published: November 2016

Background:

Various studies have examined bias in impact estimates from comparison group studies (CGSs) of job training programs, and in education, where results are benchmarked against experimental results. Such within-study comparison (WSC) approaches investigate levels of bias in CGS-based impact estimates, as well as the success of various design and analytic strategies for reducing bias.

Objectives:

This article reviews past literature and summarizes conditions under which CGSs replicate experimental benchmark results. It extends the framework to, and develops the methodology for, situations where results from CGSs are generalized to untreated inference populations.

Research design:

Past research is summarized; methods are developed to examine bias in program impact estimates based on cross-site comparisons in a multisite trial that are evaluated against site-specific experimental benchmarks.

Subjects:

Students in Grades K–3 in 79 schools in Tennessee; students in Grades 4–8 in 82 schools in Alabama.

Measures:

Grades K–3 Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) in reading and math scores; Grades 4–8 SAT10 reading scores.

Results:

Past studies show that bias in CGS-based estimates can be limited through strong design, with local matching, and appropriate analysis involving pretest covariates and variables that represent selection processes. Extension of the methodology to investigate accuracy of generalized estimates from CGSs shows bias from confounders and effect moderators.

Conclusion:

CGS results, when extrapolated to untreated inference populations, may be biased due to variation in outcomes and impact. Accounting for effects of confounders or moderators may reduce bias.
Planetary urbanization: A view from outside
Authors: Oswin Natalie
Published: November 2016

Neil Brenner, Christian Schmid and others aim to rejuvenate radical approaches to urbanization with their notion of 'planetary urbanization'. But while there is much to commend in this framework, it has met with strong critique from other radical urban studies scholars. In this commentary, I discuss the fact that although I initially set out to write an essay that would put queer urban studies into conversation with this new approach, I instead chose to stay on the outside of planetary urbanization along with many other scholars whose work is informed by queer, feminist, and critical race theoretical approaches.
Reply to ‘So, who really is a “noted author” within the accounting literature? A reflection on Benson et al. (2015)’
Authors: Benson Karen Leigh , Smith Tom
Published: November 2016

This article provides a brief response to the paper by Deegan entitled ‘So, who really is a “noted author” within the accounting literature? A reflection on Benson et al. (2015)’.
The influence of pH on the in vitro permeation of rhodium through human skin
Authors: Jansen Van Rensburg Sané , Franken Anja , Du Plessis Jeanetta , Du Plessis Johannes Lodewykus
Published: November 2016

Workers in precious metals refineries are at risk of exposure to salt compounds of the platinum group metals through inhalation, as well as through the skin. Rhodium salt permeation through the skin has previously been proven using rhodium trichloride (RhCl3) dissolved in synthetic sweat at a pH of 6.5. However, the skin surface pH of refinery workers may be lower than 6.5. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of pH 6.5 and 4.5 on the in vitro permeation of rhodium through intact Caucasian skin using Franz diffusion cells. A concentration of 0.3 mg mL−1 rhodium was used and analyses were performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Results indicated a cumulative increase in permeation over 24 h. Rhodium permeation after 12 h was significantly greater at pH 4.5 (1.56 ± 0.24 ng cm−2) than at 6.5 (0.85 ± 0.13 ng cm−2; p = 0.02). At both pH levels, there was a highly significant difference ( p < 0.01) between the mass of rhodium remaining in the skin (1428.68 ± 224.67 ng cm−2 at pH 4.5 and 1029.90 ± 115.96 ng cm−2 at pH 6.5) and the mass that diffused through (0.88 ± 0.17 ng cm−2 at pH 4.5 and 0.62 ± 0.10 ng cm−2 at pH 6.5). From these findings, it is evident that an acidic working environment or low skin surface pH may enhance permeation of rhodium salts, contributing to sensitization and adverse health effects.
Brainstem Low-Grade Gliomas in Children—Excellent Outcomes With Multimodality Therapy
Authors: Upadhyaya Santhosh A. , Koschmann Carl , Muraszko Karin , Venneti Sriram , Garton Hugh J. , Hamstra Daniel A. , Maher Cormac O. , Betz Bryan L. , Brown Noah A. , Wahl Daniel , Weigelin Helmut C. , DuRoss Kathleen E. , Leonard Annette S. , Robertson Patricia L.
Published: November 2016

Safe maximal surgical resection is the initial treatment of choice for pediatric brainstem low-grade gliomas. Optimal therapy for incompletely resected tumors or that progress after surgery is uncertain. We reviewed the clinical characteristics, therapy, and outcomes of all children with nontectal brainstem low-grade gliomas treated at the University of Michigan between 1993 and 2013. Median age at diagnosis was 6 years; histology was confirmed in 23 of 25 tumors, 64% were pilocytic astrocytoma. Nineteen patients underwent initial tumor resection; 14/19 received no upfront adjuvant therapy. Eight patients in the study had progressive disease; 5 initially resected tumors received chemotherapy at tumor relapse, all with partial or complete radiographic responses. Ten-year progression-free survival is 71% and overall survival, 100%. This single-institution retrospective study demonstrates excellent survival rates for children with brainstem low-grade gliomas. The efficacy of the well-tolerated chemotherapy in this series supports its role in the treatment of unresectable or progressive brainstem low-grade gliomas.
Does Availability of Worksite Supports for Physical Activity Differ by Industry and Occupation?
Authors: Dodson Elizabeth A. , Hipp J. Aaron , Lee Jung Ae , Yang Lin , Marx Christine M. , Tabak Rachel G. , Brownson Ross C.
Published: November 2016

Purpose:

To explore combinations of worksite supports (WSS) for physical activity (PA) that may assist employees in meeting PA recommendations and to investigate how availability of WSS differs across industries and occupations.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Several Missouri metropolitan areas.

Participants:

Adults employed >20 h/wk outside the home.

Measures:

Survey utilized existing self-reported measures (eg, presence of WSS for PA) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire.

Analysis:

Logistic regression was conducted for 2 outcome variables: leisure and transportation PA. Independent variables included 16 WSS. Of particular interest were interaction effects between WSS variables. Analyses were stratified by 5 occupation and 7 industry types.

Results:

Overall, 2013 people completed the survey (46% response rate). Often, availability of 1 WSS did not increase the likelihood of meeting PA recommendations, but several pairs of WSS did. For example, in business occupations, the odds of meeting PA recommendations through transportation PA increased when employees had access to showers and incentives to bike/walk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.16-2.22); showers and maps (OR = 1.25; 1.02-1.55); maps and incentives to bike/walk (OR = 1.48; 1.04-2.12).

Conclusion:

Various combinations of WSS may increase the likelihood that employees will meet PA recommendations. Many are of low or no cost, including flexible time for exercise and maps of worksite-adjacent walk/bike routes. Findings may be instructive for employers seeking to improve employee health through worksite PA.
“The Job Has Become Advocating for the Job”: Threats to Funding Dramatically Influence Program Outcomes
Authors: McCullough Anna , Ranney Leah M. , Simons Daniel J. , Goldstein Adam O.
Published: November 2016

As public health funding is increasingly threatened, a better understanding is needed about how periods of funding uncertainty impact program staff, activities, and outcomes. In North Carolina, 2 years of uncertainty and threats of funding cuts for a statewide youth tobacco prevention initiative contributed to reduced grantee morale and confidence about achieving program goals, displaced focus from core program activities, and caused premature loss of personnel, resulting in substantially reduced program activities and outcomes. The range of negative impacts of funding uncertainty and threats highlights the need for programs to create an infrastructure to support ongoing sustainability planning and activities.
Preliminary Evidence on Film Production and State Incentives
Authors: Swenson Charles W.
Published: November 2016

This study examines whether state movie production incentives are effective in attracting and/or retaining movie production. The issue is of significant policy interest because of the large amounts spent by states for such subsidies. This study finds that while movie production incentives were effective in increasing the number of film production employment and establishments for a few states such as New York and California from 1998 to 2011, there was no discernable increase across all states. Much of this noneffect appears because of a “crowding out” effect due to the sheer number of states with incentives.
Prediction of the damping properties of fiber-reinforced polymer composite panels with arbitrary geometries
Authors: Abbaslou A , Maheri MR
Published: November 2016

In this work, the modal damping of multilayered, fiber-reinforced polymer composite laminates with an arbitrary geometry have been computed using a mixed finite element-meshless method. The meshless node distribution scheme is used in conjunction with the Lagrangian quadrilateral interpolating functions to ensure the continuity of interelemental displacements. Furthermore, since the distribution of the elements is not confined to the geometry of the problem, any arbitrary geometry can be readily analyzed by using the same node and element distributions. Using the classical plate theory, together with a structural damping model, modal response results have been produced for a number of multilayer fiber-reinforced polymer plate geometries, including triangular and circular as well as rectangular plates with different combinations of free and clamped edges. Comparison of these results with those reported in the literature shows that the proposed method can predict the modal properties of fiber-reinforced polymer laminates with arbitrary geometries and boundary conditions with a good degree of accuracy.
Adaptive and predictive control of fuel injection with time delay consideration for air–fuel ratio regulation of gasoline direct injection engines
Authors: Feng Yu , Jiao Xiaohong , Wang Zhijing
Published: November 2016

Accurate air–fuel ratio control is a key affecting factor for improving fuel economy and reducing exhaust emissions for internal combustion engines. Challenging issues in air–fuel control are the accurate estimation of cylinder air charge for achieving the stoichiometric in-cylinder air–fuel ratio and the disposition of measurement time delay from the oxygen sensor for removing its limits on the achievable feedback performance. In this article, based on hybrid discrete–continuous-time descriptions for the cylinder air charge dynamics and air–fuel feedback regulation controlled plant, a novel fuel injection controller with adaptive feedback and predictive feedforward is designed to ensure accurate air–fuel control of a gasoline direct injection engine. The feedforward fuel injection is determined based on the cylinder air charge prediction using unscented Kalman filter for the compensation of the injection delay and modelling error and the attenuation of the measurement noise. The feedback fuel compensation is designed as a proportional-integral structure with adaptive gains by means of an adaptive stabilization method of uncertain input delayed systems for the management of the transport delay and parameter uncertainty. The effectiveness of the proposed fuelling control against time delay, modelling error, measurement noise and parameter uncertainty is demonstrated by the simulation utilizing experimental data from a real V6 GDI engine.
Experimental and numerical investigations on the aerodynamic performance of a pivoted Savonius wind turbine
Authors: Amiri M , Teymourtash AR , Kahrom M
Published: November 2016

Savonius turbines have been the subject of various wind energy projects due to their good starting characteristics, easy installation, and independency of wind direction. However, the Savonius rotor suffers from low aerodynamic performance, which is mainly due to the adverse torque of the returning blade. A recently introduced design suggests using pivoted blades for the rotor to eliminate the negative torque of the returning blade. In this study, the aerodynamic performance of the newly proposed turbine has been investigated experimentally and numerically. The experimental measurements are performed in a subsonic open-jet type wind tunnel facility. The numerical simulations are performed using ANSYS-Fluent commercial software, by making use of the multiple reference frame model. The effects of the number of blades (3-, 4-, and 6-bladed) on the torque and power coefficients are examined in details, at several Reynolds numbers. Results show that the new rotor has no negative torque in one complete revolution and that the 3-bladed rotor has the best aerodynamic performance, in a manner that, it reaches a maximum power coefficient of 0.21 at TSR = 0.5. Although increasing the number of blades decreases the output torque oscillations, it also decreases the average power coefficient of the rotor. Results show that Reynolds number does not have a significant effect on the average power coefficient of the rotor in the studied range of 7.7 × 104 ≤  Re ≤ 1.2 × 105.
Breast cancer incidence: Decreasing trend in large tumours in women aged 50–74
Authors: Molinié Florence , Delacour-Billon Solenne , Tretarre Brigitte , Delafosse Patricia , Seradour Brigitte , Colonna Marc
Published: November 2016

Objective

A decrease in advanced breast cancer incidence is considered an early indicator of breast cancer mortality reduction in a screening programme. We describe trends in breast cancer incidence according to tumour size and age in three French administrative areas, where an organized screening programme was implemented during the 1990s.

Methods

Our study included all 28,092 invasive breast cancers diagnosed from 2000 to 2010 in women living in three areas (Hérault, Isère, Loire-Atlantique). Age, year of diagnosis, and size of tumour at diagnosis was provided by the three area cancer registries. Poisson regression models were fitted to estimate changes in incidence over time, after adjustment for age and administrative area.

Results

From 2000 to 2010, the incidence rate of large (tumour size >20 mm) breast cancer linearly decreased in women aged 50–74 (target age of the screening programme) from 108.4 to 84.1/100,000 (annual percent change = −1.9%, p < 0.001). No change in large breast cancer incidence rate was found in women aged 20–49, or older than 74.

Conclusions

A decreasing trend in incidence of large tumour size breast cancer in the target age of the screening programme is demonstrated for the first time in France. The overall 20.9% linear decrease over 11 years in these three areas is encouraging and should be closely monitored and extended to other areas of France, where the screening programme was generally implemented only in 2004.
Analysis of a compact annular-radial-orifice flow magnetorheological valve and evaluation of its performance
Authors: Hu Guoliang , Liao Mingke , Li Weihua
Published: November 2016

This article outlines a compact annular-radial-orifice flow magnetorheological valve through theoretical calculation, simulation analysis and experiment verification. The fluid flow paths of this proposed magnetorheological valve consist of a single annular flow channel, a single radial flow channel and an orifice flow channel through structural design. The finite element modelling and analysis of the magnetorheological valve was carried out using ANSYS/Emag software, including achieving optimal magnetic field distribution and yield stress in the annular flow path and radial flow path, respectively. Moreover, this proposed magnetorheological valve was prototyped and evaluated experimentally, showing that the magnetorheological valve has significantly improved its efficiency, especially the pressure drop at the 1.0 mm width of annular resistance gap and 0.5 mm width of radial resistance gap.
Integration of a torsion-based shear-mode energy harvester and energy management electronics for a sensor module
Authors: Kulkarni Vainatey , Giraud Frédéric , Giraud-Audine Christophe , Amberg Michel , Ben Mrad Ridha , Prasad S Eswar
Published: November 2016

This work demonstrates the ability of a torsion-based shear-mode energy harvester to power a sensor module by integrating a temperature sensor circuit with a purpose developed piezoelectric energy harvester. A 10-cm3 energy harvester was developed for this application and was found to produce over 200 µW of maximum power through an optimal load resistance under 0.25  gpk acceleration excitation at its resonant frequency of 237 Hz. This harvester was then tested with two interface circuits: a standard interface diode bridge rectifier and a nonlinear synchronous electrical charge extraction circuit that were compared for their suitability in powering the sensor module. Through this, the synchronous electrical charge extraction nonlinear conditioning circuit was found to have superior performance when charging a capacitor and with DC loads at low voltages and was capable of providing a maximum power output of 37 µW under 0.25  gpk acceleration at 237 Hz. This output power was then used to successfully power a temperature sensor module consisting of a temperature sensor, a microcontroller, and a radio-frequency identification memory chip at a sensing frequency of 0.5 Hz.
Development of a morphing wing extrados made of composite materials and actuated by shape memory alloys
Authors: Poulin Jean-René , Terriault Patrick , Dubé Martine , Vachon Pierre-Luc
Published: November 2016

This article focuses on the development of a shape morphing composite skin representing a wing extrados. The objective is to design and manufacture a skin capable of changing its geometry in order to improve its aerodynamic efficiency. One geometry is considered to be the nominal geometry and a deformed geometry is identified. It is obtained upon application of a displacement at the aftmost boundary of the active portion of the wing profile. The displacement is imposed on the skin by shape memory alloy wires. These actuators are combined with a self-locking transmission mechanism that maintains the deformed geometry without any further energy consumption. The lay-up of the composite skin is optimised such that the deformed profile approaches the desired geometry as closely as possible. This lay-up selection routine is done through an ANSYS Parametric Design Language sub-routine. The finite element model is validated experimentally by conducting mechanical testing on the composite skin.
Buckling analysis of piezoelectrically actuated smart nanoscale plates subjected to magnetic field
Authors: Ebrahimi Farzad , Barati Mohammad Reza
Published: November 2016

Static stability analysis of a size-dependent magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded nanoplate has an immense contribution in identification and improvement of the performance of nano-electro-mechanical systems. A refined trigonometric plate theory is employed to formulate the magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded nanoplate for the first time. Magneto-electro-elastic properties of nanoplate change in spatial coordinate based on power-law form. Regarding the small-scale effects at nanoscales, the size-dependent nonlocal continuum theory is employed to derive governing equations of the nonclassical magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded nanoplate. Analytical solution possessing functions which satisfy different boundary conditions is adopted to solve the equations. The results illustrate the size-dependent buckling behavior of magneto-electro-elastic functionally graded nanoplate affected by magnetic potential, electric voltage, various boundary conditions, small-scale parameter, material composition, plate side-to-thickness ratio, and aspect ratio.
Liquid exfoliated graphene smart layer for structural health monitoring of composites
Authors: Jan Rahim , Habib Amir , Khan Zaffar M , Khan Muhammad Bilal , Anas Muhammad , Nasir Ali , Nauman Saad
Published: November 2016

Graphene nanosheets were exfoliated from graphite using liquid exfoliation method. Smart sensing layer was prepared by dispersing graphene nanosheets in thermoplastic polyurethane. The smart sensing layers thus obtained were pasted on to the glass fiber laminated composite specimens. The sensing layer due to its piezoresistivity was employed for detecting strains in the composite specimens. The results show that the smart sensing layer can be employed for strain sensing in the composite structures. The results hold promise for various applications of these sensors for structural health monitoring in composite parts.
Principle, modeling, and control of a magnetorheological elastomer dynamic vibration absorber for powertrain mount systems of automobiles
Authors: Xin Fu-Long , Bai Xian-Xu , Qian Li-Jun
Published: November 2016

This article proposes and validates the principle of a new magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) for powertrain mount systems of automobiles. The MRE DVA consists of a vibration absorption unit and a passive vibration isolation unit. The vibration absorption unit composed of a magnetic conductor, a shearing sleeve, a bobbin core, an electromagnetic coil, and a circular cylindrical MRE is utilized to absorb the vibration energy, and the passive vibration isolation unit is used to support the powertrain. The finite element method is employed to validate the electromagnetic circuit of the MRE DVA and obtain the electromagnetic characteristics. The theoretical frequency-shift principle is analyzed via the established constitutive equations of the circular cylindrical MRE In order to demonstrate how the parameters of the MRE influence the vibration attenuation performance, the MRE DVA is applied to a powertrain mount system to replace the conventional passive mount. The frequency-shift property of the vibration absorption unit and the vibration attenuation performance of the MRE DVA on the powertrain mount system are experimentally tested. To validate and improve the vibration attenuation performance for the semi-active powertrain mount systems, an optimal variable step algorithm is proposed for the MRE DVA and numerical experiments are carried out.
Coupling of experimentally validated electroelastic dynamics and mixing rules formulation for macro-fiber composite piezoelectric structures
Authors: Shahab Shima , Erturk Alper
Published: November 2016

Piezoelectric structures have been used in a variety of applications ranging from vibration control and sensing to morphing and energy harvesting. In order to employ the effective 33-mode of piezoelectricity, interdigitated electrodes have been used in the design of macro-fiber composites which employ piezoelectric fibers with rectangular cross section. In this article, we present an investigation of the two-way electroelastic coupling (in the sense of direct and converse piezoelectric effects) in bimorph cantilevers that employ interdigitated electrodes for 33-mode operation. A distributed-parameter electroelastic modeling framework is developed for the elastodynamic scenarios of piezoelectric power generation and dynamic actuation. Mixing rules (i.e. rule of mixtures) formulation is employed to evaluate the equivalent and homogenized properties of macro-fiber composite structures. The electroelastic and dielectric properties of a representative volume element (piezoelectric fiber and epoxy matrix) between two neighboring interdigitated electrodes are then coupled with the global electro-elastodynamics based on the Euler–Bernoulli kinematics accounting for two-way electromechanical coupling. Various macro-fiber composite bimorph cantilevers with different widths are tested for resonant dynamic actuation and power generation with resistive shunt damping. Excellent agreement is reported between the measured electroelastic frequency response and predictions of the analytical framework that bridges the continuum electro-elastodynamics and mixing rules formulation.
Indigenous HIV Prevention Beliefs and Practices Among Low-Earning Chinese Sex Workers as Context for Introducing Female Condoms and Other Novel Prevention Options
Authors: Dunn Jennifer , Zhang Qingning , Weeks Margaret R. , Li Jianghong , Liao Susu , Li Fei
Published: November 2016

New interventions to reduce HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STI) among female sex workers are introduced into the context of women’s existing prevention beliefs and practices. These indigenous practices affected implementation of our program to introduce female condoms to women in sex-work establishments in southern China. We used ethnographic field observations and in-depth interviews to document common prevention methods women reported using to protect themselves before and during intervention implementation. Individual, sex-work establishment, and other contextual factors, including sources of information and social and economic pressures to use or reject prevention options, shaped their perceptions and selection of these methods and affected adoption of female condoms as an additional tool. Efforts to improve uptake of effective prevention methods among low-income sex workers require attention to the context and spectrum of women’s HIV/STI prevention practices when introducing innovations such as female condoms, microbicides, pre-exposure prophylaxis pills, and others, as they become available.
Phospholamban Inhibition by a Single Dose of Locked Nucleic Acid Antisense Oligonucleotide Improves Cardiac Contractility in Pressure Overload-Induced Systolic Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: Morihara Hirofumi , Yamamoto Tsuyoshi , Oiwa Harunori , Tonegawa Kota , Tsuchiyama Daisuke , Kawakatsu Ikki , Obana Masanori , Maeda Makiko , Mohri Tomomi , Obika Satoshi , Fujio Yasushi , Nakayama Hiroyuki
Published: November 2016

Background:

Phospholamban (PLN) inhibition enhances calcium cycling and is a potential novel therapy for heart failure (HF). Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are a promising tool for unmet medical needs. Nonviral vector use of locked nucleic acid (LNA)-modified ASOs (LNA-ASOs), which shows strong binding to target RNAs and is resistant to nuclease, is considered to have a potential for use in novel therapeutics in the next decades. Thus, the efficacy of a single-dose injection of LNA-ASO for cardiac disease needs to be elucidated. We assessed the therapeutic efficacy of a single-dose LNA-ASO injection targeting PLN in pressure overload-induced cardiac dysfunction.

Methods and Results:

Mice intravenously injected with Cy3-labeled LNA-ASO displayed Cy3 fluorescence in the liver and heart 24 hours after injection. Subsequently, male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to sham or transverse aortic constriction surgery; after 3 weeks, these were treated with PLN-targeting LNA-ASO (0.3 mg/kg) or scrambled LNA-ASO. Cardiac function was measured by echocardiography before and 1 week after injection. Phospholamban-targeting LNA-ASO treatment significantly improved fractional shortening (FS) by 6.5%, whereas administration of the scrambled LNA-ASO decreased FS by 4.0%.

Conclusion:

Our study revealed that a single-dose injection of PLN-targeting LNA-ASO improved contractility in pressure overload-induced cardiac dysfunction, suggesting that LNA-ASO is a promising tool for hypertensive HF treatment.
The Bearing of Studies of Expertise and Experience on Ethnography
Authors: Collins Harry , Evans Robert
Published: November 2016

In a recent article published in this journal, Atkinson and Morris explore the kinds of expertise and competence needed by ethnographic researchers. In doing so, they refer to the work of Collins and Evans and, in particular, the idea of interactional expertise, which they dismiss as largely unhelpful to their project. In this response, we show that the Atkinson and Morriss miss-represent this work in important ways and that, if these mistakes are corrected, interactional expertise provides a useful way of addressing the methodological concerns they identify.
Engaging Adolescents Through Participatory and Qualitative Research Methods to Develop a Digital Communication Intervention to Reduce Adolescent Obesity
Authors: Livingood William C. , Monticalvo David , Bernhardt Jay M. , Wells Kelli T. , Harris Todd , Kee Kadra , Hayes Johnathan , George Donald , Woodhouse Lynn D.
Published: November 2016

Background. The complexity of the childhood obesity epidemic requires the application of community-based participatory research (CBPR) in a manner that can transcend multiple communities of stakeholders, including youth, the broader community, and the community of health care providers. Aim. To (a) describe participatory processes for engaging youth within context of CBPR and broader community, (b) share youth-engaged research findings related to the use of digital communication and implications for adolescent obesity intervention research, and (c) describe and discuss lessons learned from participatory approaches. Method. CBPR principles and qualitative methods were synergistically applied in a predominantly African American part of the city that experiences major obesity-related issues. A Youth Research Advisory Board was developed to deeply engage youth in research that was integrated with other community-based efforts, including an academic–community partnership, a city-wide obesity coalition, and a primary care practice research network. Volunteers from the youth board were trained to apply qualitative methods, including facilitating focus group interviews and analyzing and interpreting data with the goal of informing a primary care provider–based obesity reduction intervention. Results. The primary results of these efforts were the development of critical insights about adolescent use of digital communication and the potential importance of messaging, mobile and computer apps, gaming, wearable technology, and rapid changes in youth communication and use of digital technology in developing adolescent nutrition and physical activity health promotion. Conclusions. The youth led work helped identify key elements for a digital communication intervention that was sensitive and responsive to urban youth. Many valuable lessons were also learned from 3 years of partnerships and collaborations, providing important insights on applying CBPR with minority youth populations.
A multidisciplinary quality improvement program increases the inferior vena cava filter retrieval rate
Authors: Winters John P , Morris Christopher S , Holmes Chris E , Lewis Patricia , Bhave Anant D , Najarian Kenneth E , Shields Joseph T , Charash William , Cushman Mary
Published: November 2016

Published reports indicate low retrieval rates for retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters. We performed a historic-controlled study of a 5-year intervention (March 2007 to February 2012) to improve IVC filter retrieval rates at a university medical center serving a rural area. All adults with a retrievable filter placed were included, except those with a life expectancy <6 months. The intervention included initial verbal counseling and printed educational materials, correspondence after discharge, and a hematology consultation. The control group included patients with retrievable filters placed in the 15 months preceding study initiation. In the control group, 116 filters were placed and 27 (23%) were removed, compared to 378 filters placed and 169 (45%) removed during the intervention. Adjusting for patient characteristics, the odds ratio of retrieval during the intervention was 3.03 (95% CI 1.85–4.27) compared to the control period. An intervention including patient education and hematology follow-up appeared to significantly improve IVC filter retrieval rates.
Exploring sex differences in autistic traits: A factor analytic study of adults with autism
Authors: Grove Rachel , Hoekstra Rosa A , Wierda Marlies , Begeer Sander
Published: November 2016

Research has highlighted potential differences in the phenotypic and clinical presentation of autism spectrum conditions across sex. Furthermore, the measures utilised to evaluate autism spectrum conditions may be biased towards the male autism phenotype. It is important to determine whether these instruments measure the autism phenotype consistently in autistic men and women. This study evaluated the factor structure of the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form in a large sample of autistic adults. It also systematically explored specific sex differences at the item level, to determine whether the scale assesses the autism phenotype equivalently across males and females. Factor analyses were conducted among 265 males and 285 females. A two-factor structure consisting of a social behaviour and numbers and patterns factor was consistent across groups, indicating that the latent autism phenotype is similar among both autistic men and women. Subtle differences were observed on two social behaviour item thresholds of the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form, with women reporting scores more in line with the scores expected in autism on these items than men. However, these differences were not substantial. This study showed that the Autism Spectrum Quotient Short Form detects autistic traits equivalently in males and females and is not biased towards the male autism phenotype.
The influence of construction joint on the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete frame structure
Authors: Yu Jing , Liu Xiaojun , Liang Xingwen
Published: November 2016

A new model that can simulate the behavior of construction joint subjected to seismic forces was proposed. Nonlinear time-history analysis was carried out for reinforced concrete regular frame structures designed in different seismic intensity regions as well as with different height-to-width ratios. Two kinds of numerical models are adopted to simulate the seismic behavior of each frame, one with construction joint using the new proposed model and the other without construction joint using the conventional model. Results show that the influence of construction joint on the seismic behavior of reinforced concrete frame is strongly related to structural nonlinearity. It may increase the top displacement and the inter-story drift, change the inter-story drift distributions, and exacerbated the local reaction of key members. The influence of construction joint cannot be ignored for structures with low emergency capacity against major earthquake. Seismic design suggestions are proposed from the aspect of calculation analysis method.
Blunt traumatic transection of the right common carotid artery
Authors: Jambhekar Amani , Maselli Amy , Lindborg Ryan , Bobka Thomas , Fahoum Bashar , Rucinski James
Published: November 2016

Background

Carotid injuries are infrequent following blunt traumatic injury but can have potentially devastating neurologic consequences. We present a case of a 31-year-old male with right common carotid transection after blunt trauma to the neck.

Case report

A 31-year-old male with no notable medical history presented as a trauma level one activation after riding his bicycle into an open car door causing a Zone II laceration of his right anterior neck. The patient was hemodynamically normal, had an intact airway and had no neurologic deficits on evaluation in the trauma bay. He underwent a computed tomography angiogram of his neck which revealed a focal dissection of the right common carotid artery causing a 70%–80% luminal narrowing suspicious for a grade II injury. The patient was taken to the operating room for exploration of his neck laceration. He was found to have a grade V injury with complete transection of the right common carotid artery through the intima and media with intact adventitia. The arterial injury was repaired with polytetrafluoroethylene interposition graft. Perioperatively, the patient was started on dual antiplatelet therapy. He recovered uneventfully without neurologic deficits.

Conclusion

Complete transection of the common carotid artery following blunt trauma is rarely reported. Based on a review of the literature regarding blunt carotid injuries, it is reasonable to repair such injuries with prosthetic graft followed by either systemic anticoagulation or dual antiplatelet therapy.