bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reduction of the transient vibration of systems using the classical and a modified vibration absorber setup
Authors: Issa Jimmy S
Published: April 2013

This paper is concerned with the design of vibration absorbers for the reduction of the transient vibration in systems. The classical absorber setup is considered first where the absorber is attached to the primary system. Then, a modified setup is proposed where the primary system is attached to the absorber and the latter is attached to the ground. The objective is to reduce the transient vibration of the system, which can be achieved by minimizing its time constant. First, the problem is solved numerically and several observations are made to facilitate the analytical derivation of the optimal parameters. Then, the analytical expressions of the optimal parameters are written in terms of the system damping and mass ratios. It is shown that for both setups, an optimal mass ratio exists for which the absorbers reach their utmost performances. However, the optimal mass ratio of the classical setup is too large to be considered a feasible solution and therefore it is ignored. For highly damped systems, both absorbers proved to have low performances. The two setups are compared and it is shown that the proposed absorber can achieve time constants lower than those attained with the classical setup. Numerical examples are considered to illustrate the effectiveness of the designs.
Impulsive control and Hopf bifurcation of a three-dimensional chaotic system
Authors: He Xing , Li Chuandong , Pan Xiaoming , Peng Mei
Published: April 2013

The issue of impulsive stabilization and Hopf bifurcation of a new three-dimensional chaotic system is investigated. This paper derives some sufficient conditions for the stabilization of the system via impulsive control with varying impulsive intervals. By choosing an appropriate bifurcation parameter, we prove that a chaotic system undergoes Hopf bifurcation under certain conditions. Some numerical examples are given to support the analytic results.
A new hybrid intelligent control algorithm for a seven-link biped walking robot
Authors: Farzadpour Farsam , Danesh Mohammad
Published: April 2013

In recent years, many studies on bipedal walking robots and control algorithms have been conducted. However, different conditions and circumstances that have to be taken into account make the control of biped walking robots a big challenge. This paper proposes the implementation of a new hybrid intelligent control approach for a seven-link biped walking robot to track the specified trajectory based on a compensatory neurofuzzy network and fuzzy controller. This algorithm consists of two main parts: the feedforward compensator includes an integrated compensatory neurofuzzy network for identification of the inverse dynamics model which attempts to cancel the dynamics of the robot, and the feedback controller which includes a Mamdani-type fuzzy controller to compensate the modeling error and the effect of noise on the system. Moreover, a new style of membership functions distribution for fuzzy controller with noise reduction capability is proposed and its influence on the performance of the robot under noise-free and noisy conditions is investigated. Simulations performed on a biped robot illustrate the methods and their performance. The results confirm the high tracking capability and effectiveness of the proposed control approach.
A procedure for multiple crack identification in beam-like structures from natural vibration mode
Authors: Khiem Nguyen Tien , Tran Hai Thanh
Published: April 2013

This paper deals with the problem of multiple crack identification for beam-like structures from a natural vibration mode. A simplified expression for natural vibration modes of a beam with an arbitrary number of cracks has been obtained explicitly in terms of the crack parameters. The obtained solution allows not only a new form of the eigenvalue problem for a multiple cracked beam to be derived, but it is also straightforward to formulate the standard inverse problem of multi crack identification from measured mode shape. The proposed procedure in combination with the well known regularization method enables both location and size of multiple cracks to be consistently identified from the sparsely and noisy measured data. The robustness of the technique that can be called the crack scanning method has been illustrated and validated by the numerical simulation results.
A novel particle swarm optimization maximum power point tracking control method based on the direct current voltage superposition principle under partially shaded conditions
Authors: Li Hong , Liu Li-Qun
Published: April 2013

In this paper, a novel particle swarm optimization maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control method is presented to gain the maximum power point of photovoltaic (PV) power, which is based on the direct current voltage superposition principle to predict the output characteristic of a PV array at partial shading. The proposed control method conveniently can be used in the real-time MPPT control strategy for large-scale PV systems, and with the implementation of the collect circuit it is easy to gain the global peak of multiple PV arrays, thereby resulting in lower cost and higher overall efficiency. The proposed method is proved by using simulation results.
Radial basis functions approach on optimal control problems: a numerical investigation
Authors: Rad Jamal Amani , Kazem Saeed , Parand Kourosh
Published: April 2013

A numerical method for solving optimal control problems is presented in this work. The method is based on radial basis functions (RBFs) to approximate the solution of the optimal control problems by using collocation method. We applied Legendre–Gauss–Lobatto points for RBFs center nodes to use numerical integration method more easily, then the method of Lagrange multipliers is used to obtain the optimum of the problems. For this purpose different applications of RBFs are used. The differential and integral expressions which arise in the system dynamics, the performance index and the boundary conditions are converted into some algebraic equations which can be solved for the unknown coefficients. Illustrative examples are included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the technique.
Reduction of wind-induced vibration of a laminated plate with an active constrained layer
Authors: Li Jinqiang , Narita Yoshihiro
Published: April 2013

An active control method is proposed to reduce the wind-induced vibration of laminated plates by use of a velocity feedback control strategy. A piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite sensor and actuator are used to achieve effective active damping in the vibration control. The displacements in the time and frequency domains, as well as the power spectral density and the mean-squared value of the transverse response, are formulated under wind pressure at variable control gain. It is observed in the numerical results that the damping performance of the laminated plate can be significantly improved by using an outside active voltage on the constraining layer. The effects of the fiber orientation angles, both in the base laminated plate and the active piezoelectric fiber-reinforced composite constrained layer, are also discussed.
Diminished Appetite Predicts Mortality of Chinese Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Huang Baoyan , Zhou Zijuan , Xu Hong , Wang Haiyun , Liu Bingyan , Cui Ying , Yang Wei , Li Xuemei , Chen Limeng
Published: April 2013

Background:

Many maintenance dialysis patients experience a common cluster of symptoms, including diminished appetite (anorexia). This symptom has been associated with reduced quality of life and increased mortality in this population.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine whether diminished appetite is a significant predictor of negative clinical outcomes in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Method:

A longitudinal prospective study was conducted in 98 patients receiving PD in Beijing, China. Clinical characteristics, nutritional and inflammatory marker levels, and related peritoneal treatment information were collected. The appetite status and serum albumin levels were assessed initially and reevaluated monthly during the first year of follow-up. All patients were followed for nearly 5 years or until death. Data were collected about mortality, hospitalization, and peritonitis.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 60.3 ± 14.4, and 22.8% reported diminished appetite. At baseline, female sex, cardiovascular disease, and prealbumin level were the significant predictors of appetite. The average length of follow-up was 39 (range: 2–57) months. The Kaplan–Meier survival curve showed the survival rate was lower in patients reporting diminished appetite than for patients reporting normal appetite. Multivariate analysis indicated that diminished appetite, diabetes, ferritin, and serum albumin levels were independent predictors of mortality.

Conclusion:

Self-reported appetite was a predictor of clinical characteristics and outcome for patients receiving PD. Conducting appetite evaluation periodically is recommended as a nursing strategy to improve care for these patients.
Different ways of experiencing music-making in later life: Creative music sessions for older learners in East London
Authors: Varvarigou Maria , Hallam Susan , Creech Andrea , McQueen Hilary
Published: April 2013

There has been a gradual increase in the body of literature regarding seniors’ musical preferences, learning approaches, development, and creativity. This literature dispels existing myths that perceive older people as a homogeneous group, characterized by decrepitude and diminishing capacity, and with a passive contribution to society. A phenomenographic approach has been taken in this article to explore the different ways that 11 participants experienced creative music sessions delivered by the Connect Programme of the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London, UK, as part of the Music for Life Project. The analysis revealed five distinct categories of engagement. Two of these categories of engagement are described in detail and demonstrate how music learners in late Fourth Age can achieve in music given sufficient opportunity, motivation, and support from the music facilitators and their environment. The article concludes with some practical suggestions for music facilitators who wish to lead musical activities with seniors.
The bare truth: Porno-chic models of femininity as a national narrative
Authors: Berick-Aharony Omna
Published: April 2013

Israel’s affiliation to the west can be observed in various ways. Israel is a full member of many European organizations, and the Council of Europe as well as a participant in European sports leagues, and the Eurovision song contest. However, this affiliation is not ‘natural’, and evolves from Israel’s exclusion from its geographic region due to geopolitical reasons. For Jewish-Israeli society this affiliation is a significant component in its national narrative. This narration is performed through a process of ‘othering’ Israel within the Middle East. In this article the author demonstrates how the process of ‘othering’ veiled Muslim women, which is a phenomenon observed by many scholars in the past decade, is incorporated into this national narrative and results in the construction of a porno-chic feminine model for secular Jewish-Israeli women. By investigating the discursive construction of women’s bodies as symbols in a geopolitical conflict, the author shows how contemporary national and international discourses employ secular Israeli women as ‘definers and defenders’ of imagined national boundaries.
Achieving valid patient-reported outcomes measurement: a lesson from fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hobart Jeremy , Cano Stefan , Baron Rachel , Thompson Alan , Schwid Steven , Zajicek John , Andrich David
Published: April 2013

Background:

The increasing influence of patient-reported outcome (PRO) measurement instruments indicates their scrutiny has never been more crucial. Above all, PRO instruments should be valid: shown to assess what they purport to assess.

Objectives:

To evaluate a widely used fatigue PRO instrument, highlight key issues in understanding PRO instrument validity, demonstrate limitations of those approaches and justify notable changes in the validation process.

Methods:

A two-phase evaluation of the 40-item Fatigue Impact scale (FIS): a qualitative evaluation of content and face validity using expert opinion ( n=30) and a modified Delphi technique; a quantitative psychometric evaluation of internal and external construct validity of data from 333 people with multiple sclerosis using traditional and modern methods.

Results:

Qualitative evaluation did not support content or face validity of the FIS. Expert opinion agreed with the subscale placement of 23 items (58%), and classified all 40 items as being non-specific to fatigue impact. Nevertheless, standard quantitative psychometric evaluations implied, largely, FIS subscales were reliable and valid.

Conclusions:

Standard quantitative ‘psychometric’ evaluations of PRO instrument validity can be misleading. Evaluation of existing PRO instruments requires both qualitative and statistical methods. Development of new PRO instruments requires stronger conceptual underpinning, clearer definitions of the substantive variables for measurement and hypothesis-testing experimental designs.
Why visit an eco-friendly destination? Perspectives of four European nationalities
Authors: Prebensen Nina K , Lee Young-Sook
Published: April 2013

This article explores the importance placed on a destination’s eco-friendliness by tourists in relation to their cultural backgrounds. The study subsequently tests relationships between the perceived eco-friendliness and other tourist motivations for visiting a nature-based destination such as Norway. An online survey, initiated on the information obtained in telephone interviews, is used to study potential tourists from four European countries: UK, France, Sweden and Norway. Altogether, 2010 French, 2891 British, 2035 Swedish and 2027 Norwegian residents finished the questionnaire, making a generalisation feasible among the residents regarding their intention to visit a nature-based destination. The results reveal differences among the four countries in terms of the importance given to the destination’s eco-friendliness as well as motivations for travel. The respondents fall into two culturally distinct groups: the Scandinavian group and the British–French group. The tourists from Scandinavia seem to be motivated by being in and enjoying nature to a larger extent than those from the British–French group, who on the other hand are motivated more strongly by non-nature related motivations such as telling others of their experiences. The study results are discussed in relation to consumer culture theory and the way people utilise nature (i.e. autotelic – in the moment, in opposition to instrumental purposes), based on their cultural and religious backgrounds. This article argues that the present study results reflect the cultural philosophy held by the four European nationalities and that human and nature are two separate entities as informed by Judeo-Christianity. Future research and managerial implications are suggested.
Segmenting the rural tourism market
Authors: Dong Erwei , Wang Yawei , Morais Duarte , Brooks David
Published: April 2013

Because of its importance in the sustainable development of rural communities, rural tourism has been frequently studied as an alternative form of economic development in rural areas. In the United States, many rural communities rely on tourism for economic growth to compensate for declines in manufacturing, agriculture, extraction of natural resources, and population. Although there is an increased interest in developing rural tourism in many countries, there is little information regarding the motivations of rural tourists in the United States. Therefore, this study aims to understand travel motivations and characteristics of tourists visiting a rural destination to provide a better understanding of rural tourism in the United States. Our study site, Potter County, Pennsylvania, represents a typical American rural area with a population of 18,080, which is currently struggling to pursue economic revitalization by attracting tourists. The findings of this study indicated that visitors to Potter County do not fit a homogenous rural tourist profile due to their broad travel preferences. The findings also suggest that “tourism in rural areas” may be a better descriptor than “rural tourism” in the context of Potter County, Pennsylvania.
A framework for designing and implementing effective online coupons in tourism and hospitality
Authors: Sigala Marianna
Published: April 2013

Although the use of online coupons is increasing in popularity in the tourism industry, there is limited research investigating the design and the implementation of online coupons that maximizes their business benefits. Research in this field is urgent, as preliminary studies provide conflicting evidence about the impacts of online coupons on firm’s performance. This article aims to fill in this gap by developing a holistic framework demonstrating how tourism firms can effectively design and implement online coupons. To achieve that, the article reviews and also expands the previous literature on coupon promotion in order to consider the new characteristics and capabilities of online coupons; the implications of the latter on online coupon delivery and management practices; and customer behaviour towards the online coupons and the firm. The framework is developed under two dimensions: (a) it identifies the stages of customer behaviour that need to be materialized for achieving the benefits of online coupons as well as it proposes metrics for measuring the achievement of the aims of these stages; and (b) it identifies the various factors that may influence the customer behaviour towards the online coupons and the firm at each of these stages. The implications of the proposed framework are also discussed.
The negative consequences of over-diagnosing attachment disorders in adopted children: The importance of comprehensive formulations
Authors: Woolgar Matt , Scott Stephen
Published: April 2013

In many child services across health, education and social care, ‘attachment disorder’ is a popular description and explanation for complex presentations of children who have been neglected or maltreated and is frequently used to describe fostered and adopted children. Very often the use of this term bears little resemblance to the established diagnostic systems, nor indeed to attachment theory as conceptualised by Bowlby. Its misuse can lead professionals to overlook commoner and more treatable conditions, to the detriment of the children. In fact both reactive and disinhibited attachment disorders are rare, but are becoming better characterised by high quality research. Poor understanding about the attachment disorder construct can pose particular problems for clinicians working with adopted children. The current paper briefly reviews the practical difficulties with the attachment disorder diagnosis as applied to adopted children and uses four case studies taken from a specialist Adoption and Fostering Service to highlight some of the problems for services working with adopted children. Finally, we propose some provisional recommendations for the assessment and treatment of adopted children and their families, which aim to be consistent with attachment theory as well as with the existing evidence base on wider child mental health problems.
Contesting contestation: Global social policy prescriptions on pensions and health systems
Authors: Kaasch Alexandra
Published: April 2013

This article discusses the conceptualization of global social policy in its dimension of prescriptions on national social policy. By studying the global health systems discourse and comparing it to the discourse on pensions, the applicability and validity of common notions of contestation and struggle between global social policy actors and their ideas are discussed. On the basis of conceptual considerations on global social policy ideas and discourses, the reasons for the differences between the two discourses are elaborated on. The article offers conclusions as to the conceptualization of global social policy prescriptions with regard to notions of the ‘war of positions’ and the promises of the ASID (agency, structure, institution, discourse) framework.
Self-regulation and autonomy in problem- and project-based learning environments
Authors: Stefanou Candice , Stolk Jonathan D , Prince Michael , Chen John C , Lord Susan M
Published: April 2013

Investigations of the relationships between contexts in which learning occurs and students’ behaviours, cognitions and motivations may further our understanding of how instruction is related to students’ development as self-regulated learners. In this study, student self-regulated learning strategies in problem-based learning and project-based learning environments were examined to determine whether student self-regulation outcomes differed depending on the instructional design. Quantitative results showed that student motivations and behaviours were not statistically different in the two settings. Differences in cognitions associated with self-regulated learning were, however, observed in the two settings, with students in the project-based environments reporting higher levels of elaboration, critical thinking and metacognition. In addition, students in the project-based courses reported higher perceived autonomy support, or the degree to which they perceived their instructors provided them with supportive opportunities to act and think independently compared to students in the problem-based courses. These findings indicate that different non-traditional student-centred learning environments may support different outcomes related to self-regulated learning.
“Wow, That Was Funny”
Authors: Campo Shelly , Askelson Natoshia M. , Spies Erica L. , Boxer Christie , Scharp Kristina M. , Losch Mary E.
Published: April 2013

In this study, we examined whether or not exposure to a humorous surround campaign in Iowa (United States) could produce a multiplicative effect based on Intermedia Theory. Until You’re Ready, AvoidtheStork.com© was designed to prevent unintended pregnancies among young women. In the case of unintended pregnancy, interpersonal sharing is important because women’s contraceptive decisions are influenced by what others, including their friends, think about the health issue. In a sample of college students ( n = 594), cross-sectional survey results indicated that campaign exposure and humor were significant predictors of talking with and/or showing the campaign to others. Based on our results, we suggest that campaign practitioners should consider humor-based campaigns as a way to generate not only exposure-based effects but also conversation-based effects. Specifically, humor-based campaigns can increase the reach of a campaign through sharing.
Recanalization of Iatrogenic Dissection of the Superior Mesenteric Artery
Authors: Saguchi Toru , Saito Kazuhiro , Koizumi Kiyoshi , Katakami Toshio , Miyaoka Masaaki , Akata Soichi , Tokuuye Koichi
Published: April 2013

We present a case of acute abdominal pain due to a long-segment iatrogenic superior mesenteric artery dissection, which was immediately treated successfully with balloon fenestration of the intimal flap, resulting in complete resolution of the symptoms without recurrence during the 2-year follow-up period.
Skills Learning in Robot-Assisted Surgery Is Benefited by Task-Specific Augmented Feedback
Authors: Vallabhajosula Srikant , Judkins Timothy N. , Mukherjee Mukul , Suh Irene H. , Oleynikov Dmitry , Siu Ka-Chun
Published: April 2013

Background: Providing augmented visual feedback is one way to enhance robot-assisted surgery (RAS) training. However, it is unclear whether task specificity should be considered when applying augmented visual feedback. Methods: Twenty-two novice users of the da Vinci Surgical System underwent testing and training in 3 tasks: simple task, bimanual carrying (BC); intermediate task, needle passing (NP); and complex task, suture tying (ST). Pretraining (PRE), training, and posttraining (POST) trials were performed during the first session. Retention trials were performed 2 weeks later (RET). Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 feedback training groups: relative phase (RP), speed, grip force, and video feedback groups. Performance measures were time to task completion (TTC), total distance traveled (D), speed (S), curvature, relative phase, and grip force (F). Results: Significant interaction for TTC and curvature showed that the RP feedback training improved temporal measures of complex ST task compared to simple BC task. Speed feedback training significantly improved the performance in simple BC task in terms of TTC, D, S, curvature, and F even after retention. There was also a lesser long-term effect of speed feedback training on complex ST task. Grip force feedback training resulted in significantly greater improvements in TTC and curvature for complex ST task. For the video feedback training group, the improvements in most of the outcome measures were evident only after RET. Conclusions: Task-specific augmented feedback is beneficial to RAS skills learning. Particularly, the RP and grip force feedback could be useful for training complex tasks.
Coagulation and Fibrinolysis Activation After Single-Incision Versus Standard Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Zezos Petros , Christoforidou Anna , Kouklakis Georgios , Tsalikidis Christos , Dimakis Constantinos , Laftsidis Prodromos , Virgiliou Andriana , Simopoulos Constantinos , Pitiakoudis Michail
Published: April 2013

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with attenuated acute-phase response and hypercoagulable state compared with the open procedure. Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a new technique aiming to minimize the invasiveness of the procedure. By comparing the degree of coagulation and fibrinolysis activation after conventional multiport (CLC) and single-incision (SILC) laparoscopic cholecystectomy, we aimed to determine whether the reduced incision size induces a lower thrombophilic tendency. Thirty-two adult patients with noncomplicated symptomatic cholelithiasis were nonrandomly assigned to CLC or SILC. Prothrombin fragment 1 + 2 (F1 + 2), thrombin–antithrombin complexes (TAT), D-dimers, fibrinogen, and von Willebrand factor levels were measured at baseline, at 1st, and 24th hour, postoperatively. Twenty-six patients were finally included in the study. Fifteen patients underwent CLC (male/female: 5/10) and 11 underwent SILC (male/female: 1/10). There were no perioperative complications. An almost similar postoperative pattern and degree of activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis pathways was noted in both groups. No statistically significant differences were found between SILC and CLC for F1 + 2, TAT, D-dimers, fibrinogen, and von Willebrand factor levels, duration of surgery, length of hospital stay, and postoperative morbidity. A similar pattern and extent of coagulation and fibrinolysis activation is present in SILC and CLC, and therefore there is no difference in tendency for thrombosis. Thromboembolic prophylaxis should be considered in SILC as recommended for CLC, pharmacologic or mechanical, considering the hemorrhagic risk and the presence of additional thromboembolism risk factors. SILC appears to be a safe, feasible technique that can be recommended for its potential advantages in cosmesis and reduced incisional pain.
Pillcam ESO® is more accurate than clinical scoring systems in risk stratifying emergency room patients with acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Gutkin Ellen , Shalomov Albert , Hussain Syed A. , Kim Sang H. , Cortes Rafael , Gray Sondra , Judeh Hani , Pollack Simcha , Rubin Moshe
Published: April 2013

Background:

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) accounts for 400,000 hospital admissions in the US each year. Despite advances, mortality rates remain high and are estimated to be 5–10%. Early therapeutic endoscopy is widely recommended as a means of reducing morbidity and mortality. The Rockall and Blatchford scores are clinical scoring systems devised to assist in risk stratifying patients with UGIB. In a prior study we found that rapid live bedside video capsule endoscopy (VCE) utilizing Pillcam ESO® correctly identified patients with high-risk stigmata of bleeding seen on upper endoscopy. In this study, we compare the accuracy of the Rockall and Blatchford scores with Pillcam ESO® in predicting high-risk endoscopic stigmata.

Methods:

Pre-endoscopy Blatchford and Rockall scores were calculated for 25 patients (14 males, 11 females) presenting to the emergency room with acute UGIB. The average patient was 66 years of age. A total of 24 out of 25 patients underwent upper endoscopy within 24 hours. One patient did not undergo endoscopy due to clinical instability. The timing of endoscopy was based on clinical parameters in 12 patients, and on live view VCE with Pillcam ESO® in the other 13 patients. Positive VCE was defined as red blood, clot or coffee grounds. Mean Rockall and Blatchford scores for all 24 patients were compared to determine potential differences between high- and low-risk patients. Rockall and Blatchford scores were also compared with VCE findings.

Results:

Of 24 patients, 13 had high-risk stigmata on upper endoscopy. The mean Rockall and Blatchford scores were 3 and 13, respectively. In the 11 patients without stigmata, the mean Rockall and Blatchford scores were 2 and 11, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the Blatchford scores of the two groups (95% confidence interval [CI] −5.1 to 1.3; p = 0.22). There was no statistically significant difference between the Rockall scores of the two groups (95% CI −2.3 to 0.3; p = 0.11). In the subgroup of 12 patients who underwent VCE prior to endoscopy, 8/12 had positive findings, which were all confirmed at endoscopy. All 4 patients with negative VCE had no high-risk stigmata at endoscopy.

Conclusion:

In emergency room patients with acute UGIB, neither the Rockall nor the Blatchford scores were able to differentiate high- and low-risk patients identified at endoscopy. Live view VCE, however, was accurate in predicting high-risk endoscopic stigmata, and may be better suited as a risk stratification tool. Additional studies with a larger cohort will be required to validate these findings.
A survey of UK hand therapists' confidence in the interpretation of hand radiographs
Authors: McMullen Emily
Published: April 2013

Objective

To describe current practice among hand therapists in the UK when ordering and interpreting radiographs in clinical practice, in order to define confidence and establish national baselines. To highlight, promote discussion and propose the possible requirement for standardized education and a formal systematic assessment protocol for radiographic interpretation.

Methods

All British Association Hand Therapist (BAHT) registered centres in the UK were sent questionnaires and data collections sheets in order to ascertain current practice.

Results

The data suggest that of the 75 hand therapy centres in the UK who participated in this study 50.6% have therapists ordering radiographs. Of these 36% have formalized teaching and only 5.3% use a formal systematic assessment protocol for hand radiograph interpretation. The average confidence level on a visual analogue scale (VAS) was 5 (some confidence) with only four centres demonstrating above 6 (confident). Increased confidence levels were found to be associated with the availability of formal training and systematic assessment tools.

Conclusion

Centres using formalized training demonstrated a higher level of confidence than those without. The highest levels of confidence were in those centres whose therapists used a formal systematic assessment tool. The data collected suggests an education programme and standardized assessment protocol may assist the confidence of hand therapists in the radiographic assessment of hands.
Measuring the Severity of Negative and Traumatic Events
Authors: Rubin David C. , Feeling Nicole
Published: April 2013

We devised three measures of the general severity of events, which raters applied to participants’ narrative descriptions: (a) placing events on a standard normed scale of stressful events, (b) placing events into five bins based on their severity relative to all other events in the sample, and (c) an average of ratings of the events’ effects on six distinct areas of the participants’ lives. Protocols of negative events were obtained from two nondiagnosed undergraduate samples ( n = 688 and 328), a clinically diagnosed undergraduate sample, all of whom had traumas and half of whom met posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) criteria ( n = 30), and a clinically diagnosed community sample who met PTSD criteria ( n = 75). The three measures of severity correlated highly in all four samples but failed to correlate with PTSD symptom severity in any sample. Theoretical implications for the role of trauma severity in PTSD are discussed.
Sensitivity analysis and statistical process optimisation of deep drawing of AA 6061 sheet material
Authors: Raju S , Ganesan G , Karthikeyan R
Published: April 2013

Deep drawing, besides its importance as a forming process, also serves as a basic test for sheet metal formability. The elastic deformation within the overall amount of deformation is not desired and leads to springback in the drawn components. This affects the dimension and shape of the formed cups. Fundamental understanding of variation of the process parameters has become essential for accurate rapid design of tooling and processes in early design stage. Therefore, in the present study, the effect of parameters such as the die shoulder radius, punch nose radius and the blank holder force on the deep drawing of AA 6061 aluminium alloy is studied and mathematical model was developed using response surface methodology. The parameters were optimised for minimum springback. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to evaluate the effects of each process parameter on springback. The optimal values of die shoulder radius, punch nose radius and blank holder force for minimising the springback were found to be 3 mm, 3 mm and 6 kN respectively.
Sequencing of NOTCH1, GATA5, TGFBR1 and TGFBR2genes in familial cases of bicuspid aortic valve
Authors: Foffa Ilenia , Ait Alì Lamia , Panesi Paola , Mariani Massimiliano , Festa Pierluigi , Botto Nicoletta , Vecoli Cecilia , Andreassi Maria Grazia
Published: April 2013

Background

The purpose of our study was to investigate the potential contribution of germline mutations in NOTCH1, GATA5 and TGFBR1 and TGFBR2 genes in a cohort of Italian patients with familial Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV).

Methods

All the coding exons including adjacent intronic as well as 5′ and 3′ untranslated (UTR) sequences of NOTCH1, GATA5, TGFBR1 and TGFBR2 genes were screened by direct gene sequencing in 11 index patients (8 males; age = 42 ± 19 years) with familial BAV defined as two or more affected members.

Results

Two novel mutations, a missense and a nonsense mutation (Exon 5, p.P284L; Exon 26, p.Y1619X), were found in the NOTCH1 gene in two unrelated families. The mutations segregated with the disease in these families, and they were not found on 200 unrelated chromosomes from ethnically matched controls. No pathogenetic mutation was identified in GATA5, TGFBR1 and TGFBR2 genes.

Conclusions

Two novel NOTCH1 mutations were identified in two Italian families with BAV, highlighting the role of a NOTCH1 signaling pathway in BAV and its aortic complications. These findings are of relevance for genetic counseling and clinical care of families presenting with BAV. Future studies are needed in order to unravel the still largely unknown genetics of BAV.
Poor histological lesions in IgA nephropathy may be reflected in blood and urine peptide profiling
Authors: Graterol Fredzzia , Navarro-Muñoz Maribel , Ibernon Meritxell , López Dolores , Troya Maria-Isabel , Pérez Vanessa , Bonet Josep , Romero Ramón
Published: April 2013

Background

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide, leading to renal failure in 15% to 40% of cases. IgAN is diagnosed by renal biopsy, an invasive method that is not risk-free. We used blood and urine peptide profiles as a noninvasive method of linking IgAN-associated changes with histological lesions by Oxford classification.

Methods

We prospectively studied 19 patients with biopsy-proven IgAN and 14 healthy subjects from 2006 to 2009, excluding subjects with crescentic glomerulonephritis and collecting clinical and biochemical data at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up (24 months). Histological lesions were evaluated by Oxford classification. Proteomic analysis was performed by combining magnetic bead (MB) technology and mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) to obtain peptide profiles. Doubling of serum creatinine was considered a variable of poor renal prognosis.

Results

We identified 55 peptides—13 in serum, 26 in plasma, and 16 in urine—that differentiated IgAN patients from healthy subjects. A significant association was noted between serum/plasma and urine peptides and histological findings—ie, tubulointerstitial damage, segmental glomerulosclerosis, and endocapillary injury.

We also identified 3 peptides—corresponding to bradykinin, uromodulin, and alpha-1-antitrypsin—that were associated with severity of lesions, such as tubulointerstitial damage and segmental glomerulosclerosis.

Moreover, blood peptides with m/z 2953, 5337, 9287, and 9289 and urine peptides with m/z 1769, 1898, 1913, 1945, 2491, 2756, 2977, 3004, 3389, and 4752 correlated significantly with poor renal function.

Conclusions

In patients with IgAN, the use of noninvasive approaches, such as blood and urine proteomics, can provide valuable information beyond that of standard diagnostic techniques, allowing us to identify blood and urine peptide profiles that are associated with poor histological lesions in IgAN patients.
Notch1 signaling is involved in regulating Foxp3 expression in T-ALL
Authors: Luo Xiaodan , Tan Huo , Zhou Yueqiao , Xiao Tiantian , Wang Chunyan , Li Yangqiu
Published: April 2013

Background

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) is a highly aggressive hematologic malignancy. Immune tolerance induced by CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) with high expression of Foxp3 is an important hypothesis for poor therapy response. Notch1 signaling is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of this disease. Crosstalk between Notch and Foxp3+Tregs induced immune tolerance is unknown in T-ALL. We studied Foxp3 and Notch1 expression in vivo and in vitro, and analyzed the biological characteristics of T-ALL cell line systematically after Notch inhibition and explored the crosstalk between Notch signaling and Foxp3 expression.

Methods

In vivo, we established T-ALL murine model by Jurkat cells transplantation to severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. Notch1 and Foxp3 expression was detected. In vitro, we used γ-secretase inhibitor N-S-phenyl-glycine-t-butyl ester (DAPT) to block Notch1 signaling in Jurkat cells. Notch1, Hes-1 and Foxp3 genes and protein expression were detected by PCR and western blotting, respectively. The proliferation pattern, cell cycle and viability of Jurkat cells after DAPT treatment were studied. Protein expression of Notch1 target genes including NF-κB, p-ERK1/2 and STAT1 were determined.

Results

We show that engraftment of Jurkat cells in SCID mice occurred in 8 of 10 samples (80%), producing disseminated human neoplastic lymphocytes in PB, bone marrow or infiltrated organs. Notch1 and Foxp3 expression were higher in T-ALL mice than normal mice. In vitro, Jurkat cells expressed Notch1 and more Foxp3 than normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in both mRNA and protein levels. Blocking Notch1 signal by DAPT inhibited the proliferation of Jurkat cells and induced G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Foxp3 as well as p-ERK1/2, STAT1 and NF-κB expression was down regulated after DAPT treatment.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that regulation of Foxp3 expression does involve Notch signaling, and they may cooperatively regulate T cell proliferation in T-ALL.
Trends in US home food preparation and consumption: analysis of national nutrition surveys and time use studies from 1965–1966 to 2007–2008
Authors: Smith Lindsey P , Ng Shu Wen , Popkin Barry M
Published: April 2013

Background

It has been well-documented that Americans have shifted towards eating out more and cooking at home less. However, little is known about whether these trends have continued into the 21st century, and whether these trends are consistent amongst low-income individuals, who are increasingly the target of public health programs that promote home cooking. The objective of this study is to examine how patterns of home cooking and home food consumption have changed from 1965 to 2008 by socio-demographic groups.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional analysis of data from 6 nationally representative US dietary surveys and 6 US time-use studies conducted between 1965 and 2008. Subjects are adults aged 19 to 60 years (n= 38,565 for dietary surveys and n=55,424 for time-use surveys). Weighted means of daily energy intake by food source, proportion who cooked, and time spent cooking were analyzed for trends from 1965–1966 to 2007–2008 by gender and income. T-tests were conducted to determine statistical differences over time.

Results

The percentage of daily energy consumed from home food sources and time spent in food preparation decreased significantly for all socioeconomic groups between 1965–1966 and 2007–2008 (p ≤ 0.001), with the largest declines occurring between 1965 and 1992. In 2007–2008, foods from the home supply accounted for 65 to 72% of total daily energy, with 54 to 57% reporting cooking activities. The low income group showed the greatest decline in the proportion cooking, but consumed more daily energy from home sources and spent more time cooking than high income individuals in 2007–2008 (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

US adults have decreased consumption of foods from the home supply and reduced time spent cooking since 1965, but this trend appears to have leveled off, with no substantial decrease occurring after the mid-1990’s. Across socioeconomic groups, people consume the majority of daily energy from the home food supply, yet only slightly more than half spend any time cooking on a given day. Efforts to boost the healthfulness of the US diet should focus on promoting the preparation of healthy foods at home while incorporating limits on time available for cooking.
Three-dimensional reconstruction of blood vessels in the rabbit eye by X-ray phase contrast imaging
Authors: Zhang Lu , Qian Xiuqing , Zhang Kunya , Cui Qianqian , Zhao Qiuyun , Liu Zhicheng
Published: April 2013

Background

A clear understanding of the blood vessels in the eye is helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic diseases, such as glaucoma. Conventional techniques such as micro-CT imaging and histology are not sufficiently accurate to identify the vessels in the eye, because their diameter is just a few microns. The newly developed medical imaging technology, X-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCI), is able to distinguish the structure of the vessels in the eye. In this study, XPCI was used to identify the internal structure of the blood vessels in the eye.

Methods

After injection with barium sulfate via the ear border artery, an anesthetized rabbit was killed and its eye was fixed in vitro in 10% formalin solution. We acquired images using XPCI at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility. The datasets were converted into slices by filtered back-projection (FBP). An angiographic score was obtained as a parameter to quantify the density of the blood vessels. A three-dimensional (3D) model of the blood vessels was then established using Amira 5.2 software.

Results

With XPCI, blood vessels in the rabbit eye as small as 18 μm in diameter and a sixth of the long posterior ciliary artery could be clearly distinguished. In the 3D model, we obtained the level 4 branch structure of vessels in the fundus. The diameters of the arteria centralis retinae and its branches are about 200 μm, 110 μm, 95 μm, 80 μm and 40 μm. The diameters of the circulus arteriosus iridis major and its branches are about 210 μm, 70 μm and 30 μm. Analysis of vessel density using the angiographic score showed that the blood vessels had maximum density in the fundus and minimum density in the area anterior to the equator (scores 0.27 ± 0.029 and 0.16 ± 0.032, respectively). We performed quantitative angiographic analysis of the blood vessels to further investigate the density of the vessels.

Conclusions

XPCI provided a feasible means to determine the structure of the blood vessels in the eye. We were able to determine the diameters and morphological characteristics of the vessels from both 2D images and the 3D model. By analyzing the images, we obtained measurements of the density distribution of the microvasculature, and this approach may provide valuable reference information prior to glaucoma filtration surgery.
L1R, A27L, A33R and B5R vaccinia virus genes expressed by fowlpox recombinants as putative novel orthopoxvirus vaccines
Authors: Pacchioni Sole Maria , Bissa Massimiliano , Zanotto Carlo , Morghen Carlo De Giuli , Illiano Elena , Radaelli Antonia
Published: April 2013

Background

The traditional smallpox vaccine, administered by scarification, was discontinued in the general population from 1980, because of the absence of new smallpox cases. However, the development of an effective prophylactic vaccine against smallpox is still necessary, to protect from the threat of deliberate release of the variola virus for bioterrorism and from new zoonotic infections, and to improve the safety of the traditional vaccine. Preventive vaccination still remains the most effective control and new vectors have been developed to generate recombinant vaccines against smallpox that induce the same immunogenicity as the traditional one. As protective antibodies are mainly directed against the surface proteins of the two infectious forms of vaccinia, the intracellular mature virions and the extracellular virions, combined proteins from these viral forms can be used to better elicit a complete and protective immunity.

Methods

Four novel viral recombinants were constructed based on the fowlpox genetic background, which independently express the vaccinia virus L1 and A27 proteins present on the mature virions, and the A33 and B5 proteins present on the extracellular virions. The correct expression of the transgenes was determined by RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence.

Results and conclusions

Using immunoprecipitation and Western blotting, the ability of the proteins expressed by the four novel FP
L1R
, FP
A27L
, FP
A33R
and FP
B5R
recombinants to be recognized by VV-specific hyperimmune mouse sera was demonstrated. By neutralisation assays, recombinant virus particles released by infected chick embryo fibroblasts were shown not be recognised by hyperimmune sera. This thus demonstrates that the L1R, A27L, A33R and B5R gene products are not inserted into the new viral progeny. Fowlpox virus replicates only in avian species, but it is permissive for entry and transgene expression in mammalian cells, while being immunologically non–cross-reactive with vaccinia virus. These recombinants might therefore represent safer and more promising immunogens that can circumvent neutralisation by vector-generated immunity in smallpox-vaccine-experienced humans.