bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics simulation of valve-induced water hammer
Authors: Yang Shuai , Wu Dazhuan , Lai Zhounian , Du Tao
Published: February 2016

In this study, three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics simulation was adopted to evaluate the valve-induced water hammer phenomena in a typical tank-pipeline-valve-tank system. Meanwhile, one-dimensional analysis based on method of characteristics was also used for comparison and reference. As for the computational fluid dynamics model, the water hammer event was successfully simulated by using the sliding mesh technology and considering water compressibility. The key factors affecting simulation results were investigated in detail. It is found that the size of time step has an obvious effect on the attenuation of the wave and there exists a best time step. The obtained simulation results have a good agreement with the experimental data, which shows an unquestionable advantage over the method of characteristics calculation in predicting valve-induced water hammer. In addition, the computational fluid dynamics simulation can also provide a visualization of the pressure and flow evolutions during the transient process.
Modelling the tyre forces for a simulation analysis of a vehicle accident reconstruction
Authors: Han Inhwan
Published: February 2016

This paper proposes a modified bilinear tyre force model for simulations of the vehicle dynamics, which is the core part in reconstruction analysis of vehicle collision accidents. The physical parameters involved were estimated using a statistical method based on experimental test results of the tyre forces. With an appropriate setting of the input data related to a tyre blowout, a simulation analysis of the dynamics of the vehicle which had suffered the tyre blowout was performed. The developed simulation analysis results for the dynamic behaviour of a vehicle with normal tyres with total locks or with a one-wheel lock and for vehicles with tyre blowouts when driving straight or turning corresponded well to the results of other commercial programs. The reliability of these results was proved by comparing them with the corresponding data for many vehicles involved in blowout-related accidents and in particular the path travelled by those vehicles as recorded on black-box footages.
Control of unmanned aerial vehicle formations using virtual structural approach and trajectory linearisation control method
Authors: Ogunbodede Oladapo T , Huijberts Henri
Published: February 2016

The problem of formation control of unmanned aerial vehicles is tackled. The control laws were developed based on two methods of formation control. These are the virtual leader formation control method and the non-hierarchical method. A decentralised controller was used, so as to distribute the formation keeping effort among the agents. The virtual leader and the virtual centre were used in specifying the trajectory of the formation. To verify the control laws developed, a simulation study was carried out. In the simulation, a homogenous formation of three agents was used. Even though both formation control methods have their merits and demerits, it was concluded that depending on the situation where the formation was needed, one was better suited than the other. The virtual leader formation method is better suited to situations where the trajectory of the individual agents is more important than keeping the shape of the formation rigidly while the non-hierarchical method is better suited to applications where keeping the shape of the formation is more important.
Research on the effect of cowl lip angle on the accelerating start process of a two-dimensional hypersonic inlet
Authors: Xiong Liu , Jianhan Liang , Yi Wang
Published: February 2016

The effect of the cowl lip angle on the accelerating start process of a hypersonic inlet was investigated. A self-sustaining mechanism of the large-scale separation zone in the start process was studied. The inlet was a simplified, two-dimensional, one-side converging, hypersonic inlet. The movements of the large-scale separation zone of different cowl lip angles were compared and analyzed. The results show that: (1) Cowl lip angle influences the startability of a two-dimensional hypersonic inlet dramatically. With the same contraction ratio, the start Mach number of different cowl lip angles varies. First, it decreases to a minimum value at 4°, and then increases. (2) Large-scale separation zones are the common features of all cowl lip angles in unstart status. Their different development is the main cause of the different start characteristics. (3) The pressure stress is the main factor of the balance of the large-scale separation zone, and the viscous shear stress around it is of little impact. (4) The separation zone sustains itself mainly by the reflection shock of separation shock at the upper wall which is movable and adaptive with the change of Mach number. This is the reason that the separation zone gets a new balance when the incoming flow condition changes.
Simple frigate shape plasma flow control
Authors: Bardera-Mora R , Conesa A , Lozano I
Published: February 2016

This experimental investigation presents a new active flow control technique based on plasma actuators applied to a backward facing step whose structure is similar to that formed by the hangar and flight deck of small naval vessels. These experiments were carried out by testing a simple frigate shape model settled at 0° wind over deck in a low-speed wind tunnel. Two different configurations of dielectric barrier discharge plasma actuator have been used to modify the flow downstream of the step. Results obtained investigating the flow by particle image velocimetry prove the capacity of plasma actuators by reducing instabilities and turbulence over the simple frigate shape model.
Numerical study of the unsteady behaviors and rotating stall inception process in a counter-rotating axial compressor
Authors: Mao Xiaochen , Liu Bo
Published: February 2016

Unsteady computations of a counter-rotating axial compressor are performed and analyzed to investigate the unsteady behaviors in the compressor and the role of the tip leakage flow together with the rotating stall inception process. The results show that the oscillation on the pressure side is much stronger than that on the suction surface for both rotors, especially near the tip region where the trajectory of the tip leakage vortex (TLV) interacts with the blades most often. There exists a periodical leading edge spillage of the interface in rotor2 due to the unsteadiness of tip leakage flow (TLF) at near-stall condition. The blockage generated by the TLV increases dramatically due to the increasing strength of the TLV and the backflow phenomenon as the mass flow decreased. The appearance of the frequency components of 0.5 blade passing frequency (BPF) and 1.5BPF from 0.64BPF can be viewed as the rotating stall inception warning. The fluctuation strength of oscillation frequencies of 0.5BPF and 1.5BPF decreases rapidly from leading edge to trailing edge in rotor2, which indicates that the unsteady fluctuation of TLF at the leading edge in rotor2 is responsible for the stall inception of the compressor. Additionally, both the leading edge spillage and trailing edge backflow phenomena are observed for spike initiated rotating stall at stall point.
Acute intermittent porphyria precipitated by atazanavir/ritonavir
Authors: Bharti Sheena , Malhotra Prashant , Hirsch Bruce
Published: February 2016

Porphyrias are a group of metabolic disorders that are relatively uncommon and underdiagnosed. Although the association between HIV infection and antiretrovirals with porphyria cutanea tarda is well established, there are fewer data linking HIV and the acute hepatic porphyrias. We report the first case of acute intermittent porphyria precipitated by the drugs atazanavir and ritonavir, presenting with unexplained abdominal pain.
Optimisation of a low-pressure multistage steam turbine towards decreasing the wetness losses and aerodynamic losses
Authors: Li Liang , Du Changhe , Fan Xiaojun , Zhong Gangyun
Published: February 2016

Aerodynamic losses and wetness losses are two crucial factors which contribute to the decrease in the efficiency of wet-steam turbines. In this study, the response surface method is used to optimise the final three stages of a low-pressure steam turbine in consideration of the combined influences of these losses. The selected optimisation variables are the stagger angles and the blade profile stacking lines along the spanwise direction of the stators in these stages. Results show that the pressure balance in the final three stages is changed by optimising the stagger angles, thus facilitating the redistribution of supercooling degrees. As a result, both non-equilibrium thermodynamic loss and droplet diameter are reduced, and the wetness losses are decreased by 20.71%. Moreover, the method of limiting the wetness losses by adjusting the stagger angles of the low-pressure steam turbine is summarised. The optimisation of the profile stacking lines can improve the reaction degree distribution, reduce the boundary layer separation and limit secondary losses. Consequently, the aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced, and the supercooling and the outlet velocity are altered, thereby shrinking the primary and secondary droplets considerably. The aerodynamic losses are reduced by 0.52%, and the wetness losses are further lowered by 9.48%.
Bodies as Evidence: Activists’ and Patients’ Responses to Asbestos Risk in South Korea
Authors: Kang Yeonsil
Published: February 2016

This article examines how lay people’s response to risk can be shaped by their relationships with activists, by revealing the dynamics behind publicly expressed concerns. To do so, the article analyses data from the participant observation of ‘ban-asbestos activism’ in South Korea, as well as from interviews with activists and patients who are deeply involved in that activism. Operating from an understanding of lay people as a heterogeneous group of constantly interacting actors with a diverging understanding of, and concerns about, risks, this article shows that patients’ concerns about asbestos risk have been marginalised by the activists involved in ban-asbestos activism. In translating individual disease experiences caused by asbestos exposure into a risk faced by the general public by extracting generalisable data, activists’ popular epidemiology has largely disregarded patients’ voices that are rooted in the lives lived with ill bodies. In this regard, this is similar to the epidemiological studies conducted by the government. Thus, this article argues that a power relationship exists between activists and patients within the ban-asbestos activism, similar to, if not identical to, that of the expert–lay relationship. This study emphasises the importance of regarding bodies—that is, bodily experiences of living with illness—as valuable evidence in risk governance and policy.
Scientification and Social Control: Defining Radiation Contamination in Food and Farms
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomiko
Published: February 2016

Issues related to the existence of low-level radiation in the environment, in food and on farms have added significant problems to the already problem-ridden reconstruction efforts that Japan faces after the crisis in March 2011. Radiation-related issues have brought to the surface hitherto hidden fault lines within society, especially the rifts in the varied interpretations of risk. Despite the deepseated concerns that some people have about the presence of ionised radiation, overt public objections are rarely seen nor heard. Against this backdrop, this article asks the question why the lay public, particularly victims of the disaster, is not more vocal in objecting and expressing concerns. The analysis sheds light on the social conditions that tend to suppress the expression of concern. The data are drawn from in-depth interviews with farmers and consumers in Fukushima and participant observations in public forums and seminars that concern radiation of food and farms. The study indicates that various forms of social control exist within the phenomenon which the author calls ‘scientification of food and agriculture’.
Living Well With a Long-Term Condition
Authors: Stenberg Nicola , Furness Penny J.
Published: February 2016

The outcomes of self-management interventions are commonly assessed using quantitative measurement tools, and few studies ask people with long-term conditions to explain, in their own words, what aspects of the intervention they valued. In this Grounded Theory study, a Health Trainers service in the north of England was evaluated based on interviews with eight service-users. Open, focused, and theoretical coding led to the development of a preliminary model explaining participants’ experiences and perceived impact of the service. The model reflects the findings that living well with a long-term condition encompassed social connectedness, changed identities, acceptance, and self-care. Health trainers performed four related roles that were perceived to contribute to these outcomes: conceptualizer, connector, coach, and champion. The evaluation contributes a grounded theoretical understanding of a personalized self-management intervention that emphasizes the benefits of a holistic approach to enable cognitive, behavioral, emotional, and social adjustments.
The Association Between Pain and Quality of Life for Patients With Cancer in an Outpatient Clinic, an Inpatient Oncology Ward, and Inpatient Palliative Care Units
Authors: Mikan Fukiko , Wada Makoto , Yamada Michiko , Takahashi Ayaka , Onishi Hideki , Ishida Mayumi , Sato Kazuki , Shimizu Sachiko , Matoba Motohiro , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: February 2016

Purpose:

This study was designed to clarify the association between pain and quality of life (QOL) of Japanese patients with cancer using a cancer-specific QOL scale (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer [EORTC] QLQ-C15-PAL) in 3 care settings (outpatient, inpatient, and palliative care units [PCUs]).

Methods:

We examined the above-mentioned purpose for the total of 404 patients.

Results:

In outpatients, physical, emotional functioning (EF), and global health status/QOL (QL item) were significantly correlated with average pain, and their correlation coefficients were −0.37 to −0.46 ( P < .0001). In inpatients, they were −0.33 ( P = .006), −0.26 ( P = .030), and −0.31 ( P = .012). In the PCU patients, they were −0.12 ( P = .316), −0.30 ( P = .009), and −0.28 ( P = .015).

Conclusion:

Patients’ pain had an association with physical and emotional QOL, and the association was smaller in the PCU patients than the others.
Neighborhood-Level Effects on Trust in the Police
Authors: Boateng Francis D.
Published: February 2016

From a multilevel perspective, the present study explores theoretical explanations for the causes of variations in neighborhoods’ trust in the police. The study is designed to answer these questions: Why do some neighborhoods trust the police more than other neighborhoods? What makes a person living in a specific neighborhood to have more or less trust in the police, controlling for the person’s personal views? To address these questions, the study analyzed survey responses from 1,024 residents selected from 25 communities across 5 regions in Ghana. Results revealed significant neighborhood variations in trust in the police in Ghana. Furthermore, a hierarchical linear modeling analysis revealed that the variations among the neighborhoods could be explained by their levels of disorder, income, and education. Findings from this study have both theoretical and practical implications and provide important insights for the police to improve upon their trustworthiness.
On mapping tasks during product development
Authors: Prasad Biren (Brian)
Published: February 2016

A simple icon-based flowcharting methodology for capturing concurrency of tasks and activities during product design and development is described herein. Eight shape-icons, five flow-icons, and three line-icons are used to represent the various types of activities, information flow directions, and data connections, respectively. The methodology is quite general and can be used to capture various types of relationships in most life-cycle processes, such as concurrent workflow, or during an enterprise mapping. Precedent relationships, such as relative placements of tasks, and timing (such as start, end, or looping) of tasks can also be easily addressed. If we combine re-engineering objectives with such flowcharting methodology, one could also get answers to a broad range of process improvement questions, such as what activity to curtail; when to overlap, loop, or sequence a set of tasks; how to insure their effectiveness; and how to best position them on the process map, to improve the overall operational efficiency. Strategic use of such flowcharts for designing, evaluating alternatives, reducing time-to-market, and life-cycle costs can enable and lead an enterprise to be a lean organization.
Least cost–tolerance allocation based on Lagrange multiplier
Authors: Ramesh Kumar L , Padmanaban KP , Balamurugan C
Published: February 2016

Industry-related competitiveness and reduction in manufacturing cost can be achieved by selection of ideal tolerance. Implementing non-traditional techniques for tolerance allocation to various parts in a mechanical assembly is an enervating procedure. Analytical methods are implemented to obtain creditable design. The main objective of this article is to minimize the manufacturing cost, quality loss, and TRSS (root sum square tolerance) for complex mechanical assemblies. The proposed methodology deals with the reciprocal exponential function. Hence, it is used to solve the problem for obtaining the closed-form solution by Lagrange multiplier method which integrates Lambert W function. The illustrations used in the research article demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the traditional approaches. The results obtained also show that tolerance can be allocated economically and precisely. Here, non-traditional optimization methods are correlated and finally their performances are analyzed.
Case Report of a Well-Differentiated Papillary Mesothelioma of the Tunica Vaginalis in an Undescended Testis With Review of Literature
Authors: Parcesepe Pietro , Sina Sokol , Zanella Caterina , Pancione Massimo , Giuliani Jacopo , Detogni Paolo , Curti Pierpaolo , Bonetti Andrea , Manfrin Erminia , Remo Andrea
Published: February 2016

Well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma (WDPM) affecting the tunica vaginalis testis is a rare tumor, and very little is known about the clinicopathological spectrum of this variant as a distinct entity. Most patients with WDPM suffer from scrotal pain or swelling, but hydrocele seems to be the most common presenting symptom. These lesions are usually not aggressive and are accompanied by an indolent clinical behavior. In this article, we report the first case known of WDPM in an undescended testis, and in addition, we review the literature for similar cases.
Assessing Circulating Factor VIIa–Antithrombin Complexes in Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Pilot Study
Authors: Słomka Artur , Świtońska Milena , Sinkiewicz Władysław , Żekanowska Ewa
Published: February 2016

Aim:

The goal of this study was to determine the levels of factor VII (FVII), factor VIIa–antithrombin complexes (FVIIa-AT), total tissue factor (TF), and tissue factor-bearing microparticles (MPs-TF) in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Further, we sought evidence of an association between hemostatic markers, time of blood sampling, type of treatment, and patient outcomes.

Methods:

Venous blood samples were collected from 33 patients on the first day and on the seventh day after stroke diagnosis. Age-matched controls were also included (n = 20). Plasma levels of FVII, FVIIa-AT, total TF, and MPs-TF were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. We divided patients into 2 groups: thrombolysis group (n = 13) and nonthrombolysis group (n = 20). Furthermore, evaluation of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale and the Barthel Index was performed on the first day and the seventh day.

Results:

Patients with ischemic stroke showed significantly lower plasma FVII, FVIIa-AT, and total TF levels than controls (median, 112.25% vs 132.05%, P = .004; 107.97 pmol/L vs 154.94 pmol/L, P < .001; 81.74 pg/mL vs 105.71 pg/mL, P < .001, respectively). In contrast, levels of plasma MPs-TF were significantly higher in patients with stroke compared to healthy controls (1.60 pg/mL vs 0.74 pg/mL, P < .001). Additionally, the thrombolysis group had lower FVII levels on the seventh day compared to the first day (median, 109.80% vs 115.74%, P = .04).

Conclusion:

Factor VII, FVIIa-AT, and total TF are decreased, while MPs-TF are elevated in patients with ischemic stroke. We observed a slight but significant effect of alteplase on FVII plasma levels.
“He Never Did Anything You Typically Think of as Abuse”
Authors: Velonis Alisa J.
Published: February 2016

Traditionally, any physical aggression within intimate relationships has been labeled “domestic violence,” even as researchers and advocates continue to disagree about the nature of that phenomenon vis-à-vis gender and control. As part of a larger mixed-methods study, 22 women from a non-agency, community-based sample who reported experience with relationship violence were interviewed. The existence of patterned coercive and controlling behaviors substantially differentiated experiences with violence, suggesting this dynamic is at least as important to identify as physical violence. Although preliminary, the impact of these findings on intervention and prevention strategies and on the debate surrounding gender symmetry is discussed.
Older Patients’ and Next of Kin’s Perspectives on Continuity in Long-Term Home Health Care
Authors: Gjevjon Edith Roth , Romøren Tor Inge , Bragstad Line Kildal , Hellesø Ragnhild
Published: February 2016

The study explored how 125 older patients and 92 next of kin experienced and assessed continuity in long-term home health care. Data were collected by means of structured interviews. A majority of the patients indicated that having a high number of health care personnel involved in their care was not problematic. For patients, informed and skilled health personnel along with knowing the visiting personnel may compensate for a high number of personnel. For next of kin, accepting a high number of personnel was related to the carers being informed about the patient’s situation. This study indicates that, in terms of patient satisfaction, the overall quality of care is more important than the number of people providing the care.
Promoting Sustainable Regional Health Care in Japan
Authors: Kitamura Yuko , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Yamaguchi Ken
Published: February 2016

To supply sustainable health care to cancer patients, it is important to continuously deliver appropriate information regarding community health care resources and to develop an accessible medical system. We developed an information-sharing system using geographical data called the “Resource Map for Community Cooperation in Cancer Care” ( http://cancerqa.scchr.jp/shizuoka/ganmap/ ). This system is based on registered public data available in Shizuoka Prefecture and provides the user with information concerning more than 7,000 medically related facilities (e.g., hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies). The system’s information database was derived from existing official regional data. After a probation period, we identified three factors that promote Information technology (IT) system usage for sustainable health care management: (1) visual presentation of information and usability, (2) information management, and (3) contribution to social innovation.
Evaluation of the Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12) in a Dutch sample: Application of item response theory
Authors: Mokkink Lidwine Brigitta , Galindo-Garre Francisca , Uitdehaag Bernard MJ
Published: February 2016

Background:

The Multiple Sclerosis Walking Scale-12 (MSWS-12) measures walking ability from the patients’ perspective. We examined the quality of the MSWS-12 using an item response theory model, the graded response model (GRM).

Methods:

A total of 625 unique Dutch multiple sclerosis (MS) patients were included. After testing for unidimensionality, monotonicity, and absence of local dependence, a GRM was fit and item characteristics were assessed. Differential item functioning (DIF) for the variables gender, age, duration of MS, type of MS and severity of MS, reliability, total test information, and standard error of the trait level (θ) were investigated.

Results:

Confirmatory factor analysis showed a unidimensional structure of the 12 items of the scale, explaining 88% of the variance. Item 2 did not fit into the GRM model. Reliability was 0.93. Items 8 and 9 (of the 11 and 12 item version respectively) showed DIF on the variable severity, based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). However, the EDSS is strongly related to the content of both items.

Conclusion:

Our results confirm the good quality of the MSWS-12. The trait level (θ) scores and item parameters of both the 12- and 11-item versions were highly comparable, although we do not suggest to change the content of the MSWS-12.
Translingual oral and written practices: Rhetorical resources in multilingual writers’ discourses
Authors: Cavazos Alyssa G
Published: February 2016

Aims and objectives:

This study investigates how three multilingual scholars enact translingual negotiation strategies in a variety of contexts. The purpose of the study is to identify how translingual oral and written literacy practices serve as rhetorical tools of language self-awareness, identity construction, and negotiations of language difference.

Design/Methodology/Approach:

The objectives of the study are achieved by conducting a textual analysis of three primarily oral genres mediated by literate practices. The genres include: a plenary address, naturalization ceremony speech, and personal interview.

Data and Analysis:

The three genres composed by multilingual scholars are analyzed using the following four translingual negotiation strategies: envoicing, recontextualization, interactional, and entextualization.

Findings/Conclusions:

The key findings of the research reveal the important relationship between oral and written practices, particularly how oral language practices serve as rhetorical resources that help multilingual writers become aware of audience and language negotiations. This study also reveals the potential of using translingual strategies in the writing classroom to enhance students’ rhetorical self-awareness of language difference in diverse genres and contexts.

Originality:

While scholarship in literacy and composition studies has focused on and recognized how the relationship between oral and written practices shape identities and communities, less attention is given to how multilingual speakers/writers in primarily oral genres mediated by literate practices use rhetorical strategies to shape their translingual identities and engage audience uptake of their translingual strategies.

Significance/Implications:

The significance and implications of this study focus on using translingual strategies as rhetorical tools to teach writing, language awareness, and analysis of discourse.
Language-specific resources in talk: A study of epistemic stance coding in Alto Perené (Arawak) agreements
Authors: Mihas Elena
Published: February 2016

Based on extensive ethnographic fieldwork in lowland Peru, this study examines linguistic resources used for coding agreements in Alto Perené (Arawak) conversation. The study draws on the anthropological tradition of conversation analysis-informed ethnographies. The investigation of agreeing responses is limited to those which allow a projectedly ‘knowing’, or K-plus, participant to raise his or her epistemic status from the sequentially second position. It is shown that Alto Perené K-plus response formats include the evaluative property word kametsari ‘good’ with an intensifier and/or upgraded prosody, argument focus structures, two polarity verbs ari ‘it is the case’ and omapero ‘it is true’, and the verb ñakiro ‘as you can see’. This analysis demonstrates a relationship between the Alto Perené practices of expressing K-plus agreements and the collateral effects arising from the particular meanings and functions of structures which are used for accomplishing an agreeing action.
Outlaw biker affiliations and criminal involvement
Authors: Klement Christian
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the effect of being an outlaw biker on criminal involvement in Denmark. Using a unique dataset, 297 outlaw bikers are matched on various background characteristics with 181,931 control individuals and effects are estimated in difference-in-difference regressions. This approach reduces the risk of selection bias and helps isolate the effect of affiliation on criminal involvement. The results suggest that affiliation with an outlaw motorcycle club may increase involvement in overall crime, specifically property crime, drug crime, and weapons crime. Results regarding violent crimes are inconclusive. It is concluded that an outlaw biker affiliation may increase criminal involvement.
Iliac Vein Stent Fracture Due to a Migrated Retrievable Vena Cava Filter
Authors: Yim Nam Yeol , Kim Jae Kyu , Kim Hyoung Ook , Kang Yang Jun , Jung Hye Doo
Published: February 2016

We report a case of iliac vein stent fracture due to hooking by a migrated retrievable inferior vena cava filter in a 55-year-old woman with acute deep venous thrombosis related to May-Thurner syndrome.
Alteration of Duration Mismatch Negativity Induced by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Over the Left Parietal Lobe
Authors: Oshima Hirokazu , Shiga Tetsuya , Niwa Shin-ichi , Enomoto Hiroyuki , Ugawa Yoshikazu , Yabe Hirooki
Published: February 2016

Mismatch negativity (MMN) is generated by a comparison between an incoming sound and the memory trace of preceding sounds stored in sensory memory without any attention to the sound. N100 (N1) is associated with the afferent response to sound onset and reflects early analysis of stimulus characteristics. MMN generators are present in the temporal and frontal lobe, and N1 generators are present in the temporal lobe. The parietal lobe is involved in MMN generation elicited by a change in duration. The anatomical network connecting these areas, lateralization, and the effect of the side of ear stimulation on MMN remain unknown. Thus, we studied the effects of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) over the left parietal lobe on MMN and N1 in 10 healthy subjects. Low-frequency rTMS over the left parietal lobe decreased the amplitude of MMN following right ear sound stimulation, but the amplitude was unaffected with left ear sound stimulation. We observed no significant changes in the amplitude of N1 or the latency of MMN or N1. These results suggest that low-frequency rTMS over the left parietal lobe modulates the detection of early auditory changes in duration in healthy subjects. Stimulation that is contralateral to the side of the ear experiencing sound may affect the generation of duration MMN more than ipsilateral stimulation.
Meaning of Staring and the Starer–Staree Relationship Related to Men Living With Acquired Spinal Cord Injuries
Authors: Renwick Rebecca , Yoshida Karen , Eacrett Elizabeth , Rose Natalie
Published: February 2016

When in public places, many individuals with physical disabilities experience staring. Although staring is typically seen as uncomplicated and something to be “ignored,” it has consequences for the person being stared and the staree. Few studies have focused on staring experienced by men following spinal cord injury (SCI). Accordingly, this study explored how adult men with SCI give meaning to the staring from others, the consequences for them, and their responses to the staring and to the starer. Principles of modified grounded theory methods were used to conduct a secondary analysis of interview data for 30 male participants from a larger study of community-dwelling individuals with SCI. Themes revealed through analysis related to context-dependent meanings of staring, negative consequences of staring for some men, and positive opportunities for self-growth and interaction with the public. These findings contribute to a more complex understanding of staring and the relationship between the starer and staree in various social circumstances which can support people living with differences in their public interactions, and improve their quality of life.
Determine the Dose Distribution Using Ultrasound Parameters in MAGIC-f Polymer Gels
Authors: Masoumi Hossein , Mokhtari-Dizaji Manijhe , Arbabi Azim , Bakhshandeh Mohsen
Published: February 2016

In this study, using methacrylic and ascorbic acid in gelatin initiated by copper (MAGIC-f) polymer gel after megavoltage energy exposure, the sensitivity of the ultrasound velocity and attenuation coefficient dose-dependent parameters was evaluated. The MAGIC-f polymer gel was irradiated under 1.25 MeV cobalt-60, ranging from 0 to 60 Gy in 2-Gy steps, and received dose uniformity and accuracy of ±2%. After calibration of the ultrasonic systems with a frequency of 500 kHz, the parameters of ultrasound velocity and attenuation coefficient of the irradiated gel samples were measured. According to the dose–response curve, the ability of ultrasonic parameters was evaluated in dose rate readings. Based on a 4-order polynomial curve, fitted on the dose–response parameters of ultrasound velocity and attenuation coefficient and observed at 24 hours after irradiation, ultrasonic parameters had more sensitivity. The sensitivity of the dose–velocity and dose-attenuation coefficient curves was observed as 50 m/s/Gy and 0.06 dB/MHz/Gy over the linear range of 4 to 44 Gy, respectively. The ultrasonic parameters at 5°C, 15°C, and 25°C on the gel dosimeter after 0 to 60 Gy irradiation showed that readings at 25°C have higher sensitivity compared to 15°C and 5°C. Maximum sensitivity time and temperature readings of the MAGIC-f ultrasonic parameters were concluded 24 hours after irradiation and at a temperature of 25°C.
Primary Care Opportunities to Prevent Unintentional Home Injuries: A Focus on Children and Older Adults
Authors: McDonald Eileen M. , Mack Karin , Shields Wendy C. , Lee Robin P. , Gielen Andrea C.
Published: February 2016

Unintentional injuries are a persistent public health problem in the United States. A new health care landscape has the potential to create a clinical environment that fosters greater involvement by health care providers in injury prevention. The aim of this article is to provide evidence supporting the need for engagement by primary care providers in unintentional home injury prevention along with examples of how this could be accomplished. We know a great deal about what population groups are at risk for certain types of injuries. We also know that many injuries can be prevented through policies, programs, and resources that ensure safe environments and promote safe behaviors. For example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s STEADI (Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths, and Injuries) initiative comprises clinical decision support tools and educational materials for health care providers. Two effective interventions that have demonstrated a reduction in falls among children are the redesign of baby walkers (engineering) and the mandated use of window guards (enforcement). Primary care clinicians can play a key role in promoting their patient’s safety. Taken collectively, a focused attention on preventing unintentional home injuries by primary care providers can contribute to the reduction of injuries and result in optimal health for all.
Revisiting the vulnerability ethos in cross-sectoral transition policies and practices for young people in the era of marketisation of education
Authors: Brunila Kristiina , Ikävalko Elina , Kurki Tuuli , Mertanen Katariina , Mikkola Anna
Published: February 2016

The ethos of vulnerability has come to play an increasingly central role in shaping cross-sectoral transition policies and practices related to young people outside of education and working life. Yet the wider effects of this ethos in policies and practices are still rarely analysed. In this article, we draw our data from five separate studies. The data set includes policy documents, news reports, programme guidelines as well as interview and ethnographic data. This article shows what kinds of effects the ethos of vulnerability in cross-sectoral transition policies and practices can have on young people outside education and working life.
Detection of Silent Atrial Fibrillation aFter Ischemic StrOke (SAFFO) guided by implantable loop recorder: multicentre Italian trial based on stroke unit network with paired cardio-arrhythmology units (Italian Neurocardiology Unit Network)
Authors: Toni Danilo , Lorenzano Svetlana , Strano Stefano ,   on behalf of SAFFO Trial Investigators
Published: February 2016

Rationale

Atrial fibrillation is associated with a high risk of stroke and its prevalence increases in subjects aged ≥65 years. After an ischemic stroke, the use of standard monitoring methods may underestimate the detection rate of atrial fibrillation. Hence, it is very likely that even patients having a first atherothrombotic or lacunar stroke with high burden of vascular risk factors are exposed to increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation in the subsequent years and atrial fibrillation may be the cause underlying possible recurrent strokes

Aim and hypothesis

The Silent Atrial Fibrillation aFter Ischemic StrOke (SAFFO) trial has the objective to evaluate the detection of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter as first diagnosis by implantable loop recorder in patients with first-ever atherothrombotic or lacunar stroke. We hypothesize that the detection will be higher than that observed by using standard cardiac monitoring

Methods and design

SAFFO is a prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled, open-label trial with blinded assessment of outcome measures. Patients who fulfill inclusion criteria will be randomized to either continuous monitoring using an implantable loop recorder plus standard monitoring (intervention arm) or standard heart rhythm monitoring alone (control arm) with a ratio of 1:1

Study outcomes

The primary endpoint is the detection of atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter as first diagnosis in the first 12 months of the study period

Discussion

If positive, SAFFO trial could have important clinical implications in terms of changing the standard diagnostic protocol in patients with atherothrombotic and lacunar stroke, and of increasing the shift of secondary prevention treatment from antiplatelet to anticoagulant therapy.
The role of adipokines in ischemic stroke risk stratification
Authors: Bouziana Styliani , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Goulas Antonios , Ηatzitolios Apostolos Ι
Published: February 2016

Background

Adiponectin, leptin, and resistin are the most well-studied adipokines and play important roles in the regulation of glucose metabolism, subclinical inflammation, and cardiovascular homeostasis. Accordingly, measurement of adipokine levels might be useful in cardiovascular risk stratification. Moreover, the study of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of genes that encode these adipokines might also represent a valuable predictive tool in cardiovascular disease prevention strategies.

Aims

To summarize the biologic role of the adipokines adiponectin, leptin, and resistin and the prognostic value of their serum levels regarding the occurrence and outcome of ischemic stroke. We also discuss the relationship of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the adiponectin, leptin genes, and the −420C > G polymorphism of resistin gene with stroke risk.

Summary of review

Several studies in the general population evaluated the association between these adipokines and stroke risk, yielding conflicting results. There are more limited data regarding the effect of these adipokines on stroke severity and outcome. A small number of studies also assessed the predictive role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the adiponectin, leptin, and resistin genes regarding stroke risk, but the findings were also controversial.

Conclusions

It is unclear whether adiponectin, leptin, and resistin levels or the single-nucleotide polymorphisms of their encoding genes are independently associated with stroke risk. However, given the role of these adipokines in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, larger prospective studies, both in the general population and in patients with a history of stroke, are needed to determine whether the measurement of serum levels of these adipokines or the evaluation of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in their encoding genes could improve stroke risk prediction. If this relationship is proven, therapeutic interventions targeting adipokine levels might represent a novel approach to reduce stroke-related mortality and disability.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma: an update on diagnosis and treatment options
Authors: Kondola Sanjana , Manners David , Nowak Anna K.
Published: February 2016

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) represents a significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenge and is almost always a fatal disease. Imaging abnormalities are common, but have a limited role in distinguishing mesothelioma from metastatic pleural disease. Similarly, minimally invasive biomarkers have shown promise but also have limitations in the diagnosis of mesothelioma. In experienced centers, cytology and immunohistochemistry are now sufficient to diagnose the epithelioid subtype of mesothelioma, which can reduce the need for more invasive diagnostic investigations. Prognosis of MPM is modestly impacted by oncological treatments. Chemotherapy with cisplatin and pemetrexed is considered the standard of care, though the addition of bevacizumab to the platinum doublet may be the new standard of care. New targeted therapies have demonstrated some promise and are being addressed in clinical trials. This review focuses on the current data on the diagnostic and therapeutic issues of MPM.
Do the risks of khat-induced dependence and psychosis warrant the 2014 UK ban?
Authors: Caulfield Alice
Published: February 2016

Khat leaves originate in East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula and are chewed socially for their psychoactive properties. The main constituents of khat, cathinone and cathine, are illegal substances in most of Europe, including the UK, which reclassified khat as a Class C drug in June 2014. Case reports of khat-induced psychosis and dependence are not supported with robust scientific studies, and evidence for a causal relationship is lacking. Cross-sectional population studies reveal that khat abuse is affected by a range of susceptibility factors, such as psychological trauma; this has been experienced by many khat users, due to civil war and/or migration. Most studies on animal models of khat-induced dependence or psychosis use its psychoactive ingredient, cathinone, rather than khat extract. However, the unique chewing method of khat diminishes its addictive potential due to slow and prolonged absorption. Furthermore, the effects of the other constituents present in khat leaves are not well understood. While there are multiple criteria for banning a drug, this review considers the scientific evidence regarding two frequently mentioned criteria: dependence potential and psychosis. It concludes that further investigation, which takes into account susceptibility factors, is required to justify such intervention.
The effects of indication of local geographical origin on food perceptions
Authors: Merle Aurélie , Herault-Fournier Catherine , Werle Carolina O. C.
Published: February 2016

This research examines the impact of a local origin label on perceptions and purchase intent regarding food products. It also reveals the psychological mechanism specific to local origin to explain these effects. Two experiments, conducted on a total of 632 consumers, show that cheese (Study 1) and apples (Study 2) are perceived as healthier, better tasting, and more respectful of the environment and the work of farmers when they are presented as local foods (as opposed to national or from another “region”). Purchase intention is also higher when products are labeled as locally sourced. Study 2 shows that these effects can be explained by construal level theory. Local produce is perceived as spatially and psychologically closer by the consumer, who can thus picture more specifically how it was grown and prepared, and this in turn positively influences perceptions and purchase intent. These effects are measured on products that are not typical of the territory. They persist regardless of the degree of local identity of the person evaluating the product.
In the Middle of a Family Story
Authors: Soyseçkin Ceylan İdil S.
Published: February 2016

The article focuses on paid child care work/commodification of child care in informal labor market and aims to understand meaning of this commodification for child minders and work relation; place of emotions in work, features transferred from familial relations and their impacts; and influence of private sphere as a working place. This study is based on in-depth interviews conducted with 19 child minders in the capital city of Turkey, Ankara. Results displayed that in Turkey, due to lack of any formal regulations targeting the paid child care work, ambiguity that surrounds frame of the work increases the tension. Both child minders and mothers refrain from considering their connection with each other as employee and employer. Hence, they are inclined to think and behave via family terms. Unavailability of any kind of formal mechanism to bring standardization of definition of tasks, of wages, and of working relation causes a formless area. However, there are informally defined and adopted principles functioning in the field. Furthermore, because of fictive kinship relation and emotional component in the work, risk of exploitation is high. And despite inequality between mothers and child minders, both of the actors have their own negotiation power.
Problems With Sociology Education in Turkey on Its 100th Anniversary
Authors: Kasapoglu Aytul
Published: February 2016

Although sociology education began a century ago in Turkey, sociology is considered a scientific discipline rather than a profession in which graduates can earn money. The primary aim of this article is to identify the essence of this problem in sociology education based on students’ and sociologists’ views. To achieve the study objectives, a phenomenological study based on standpoint theory was designed and conducted with 25 students and 20 working sociologists. The findings reveal that sociology education is quite far removed from being considered a professional education. Theoretical courses without field studies are not in accordance with the requirements of both the public and private sectors. Students and sociologists are quite romantic regarding what sociology is and what sociologists do. Students mostly begin the study of sociology involuntarily and without a clear understanding of the discipline. Sometimes students find themselves in a paradox or dilemma: Although the knowledge and skills they have developed during their sociology education enable students to express themselves effectively and understand social events more comprehensively, the risk of unemployment is a severe threat. Even if they are employed, graduates are disappointed because they are not prepared to conduct the tasks that their jobs demand. Students assess these activities as social work and thus inappropriate. To solve the problems of sociology as a profession in society and as an academic field in the university, both problems must be clearly defined and programs must be carefully reconfigured to meet the demands of both society and sociologists.