bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated differential braking and electric power steering control for advanced lane-change assist systems
Authors: Park Manbok , Lee Sanghyun , Kim Myoungjune , Lee Junyung , Yi Kyongsu
Published: October 2014

This paper describes the design and verification of a control algorithm for advanced lane-change assist systems with integrated control of the differential braking and the electric power steering system. The objective of the proposed control algorithm of the advanced lane-change assist system is to minimize the unexpected control input of electric power steering and to make maximum use of the differential brake effort. The advanced lane-change assist system can warn of potential rear and side crashes and prevent collisions in lane-change manoeuvres with active intervention when there is an upcoming vehicle with a potential risk to the rear in the next lane. An enhanced lane-change assist warning algorithm is developed with additional information on the estimated past trajectory of the subject vehicle. The upper controller of the advanced lane-change assist system determines the control on–off decision, the desired yaw rate for collision avoidance and the strategic control input distribution. The key strategy of this integrated control algorithm is to use the maximum tyre–road friction of the differential brake force and to operate with a smaller control effort of the electric power steering only when lacking in the level of yaw rate moment obtained by the electronic stability control, which is intended to minimize annoyance to a driver and control intervention. The lower controller decides the control input of the advanced electronic stability control and the electric power steering system. Finally the advanced lane-change assist system is implemented in a real vehicle and tested in both the steering-control-only case and the integrated-control case. It is shown that the proposed strategy can intervene appropriately and verifies the effectiveness of collision avoidance in a dangerous lane-change situation; a decrease in the electric power steering control input of about 20% can be achieved by the proposed algorithm.
Disc brakes for heavy vehicles: an experimental study of temperatures and cracks
Authors: Le Gigan Gaël , Vernersson Tore , Lundén Roger , Skoglund Peter
Published: October 2014

A better understanding of the thermomechanical loading of brake discs is important for controlling material fatigue and crack propagation in the disc. In the present study, full-scale drag braking experiments were performed on brake discs made from eight different grey cast iron alloys. The well-performing materials were also tested with an alternative brake pad material. A testing procedure with repeated drag brakings was used. The disc and pad temperatures were registered by thermocouples embedded at selected locations, and the disc surface temperatures by a thermocamera. Extensive analyses of the measured temperatures were performed. The results for the thermocouples at the mid-radius of the disc and at the end of brake applications indicatd that the two sides of the disc have opposite deviations from the mean temperature. The temperature deviations are generally temporally alternating, but also stationary variations can be found. The thermocamera gives the possibility of identifying the phenomena behind the temperature variations found from the thermocouples. Banding of the disc–pads contact with alternating one band and two bands of high temperatures is observed for the studied brake discs exposed to severe braking load cases. Moreover, it was found that hot-spot patterns develop on the disc surface, which are spatially fixed during each brake application. However, they may be either slowly migrating or fixed relative to the disc during consecutive brake applications. Thermal images show that small cracks do not affect hot-spot migration as a hot spot migrates over the crack. However, at a critical length of the crack, the heat becomes localized at the crack and increases its growth, thus limiting the life of the disc. The tests indicate that a combination of hot-spot migration, alternating bands and small temperature differences over the disc are significant factors to be considered when improving the lifespan of the discs.
Experimental characterization of post rigor mortis human muscle subjected to small tensile strains and application of a simple hyper-viscoelastic model
Authors: Gras Laure-Lise , Laporte Sébastien , Viot Philippe , Mitton David
Published: October 2014

In models developed for impact biomechanics, muscles are usually represented with one-dimensional elements having active and passive properties. The passive properties of muscles are most often obtained from experiments performed on animal muscles, because limited data on human muscle are available. The aim of this study is thus to characterize the passive response of a human muscle in tension. Tensile tests at different strain rates (0.0045, 0.045, and 0.45 s−1) were performed on 10 extensor carpi ulnaris muscles. A model composed of a nonlinear element defined with an exponential law in parallel with one or two Maxwell elements and considering basic geometrical features was proposed. The experimental results were used to identify the parameters of the model. The results for the first- and second-order model were similar. For the first-order model, the mean parameters of the exponential law are as follows: Young’s modulus E (6.8 MPa) and curvature parameter α (31.6). The Maxwell element mean values are as follows: viscosity parameter η (1.2 MPa s) and relaxation time τ (0.25 s). Our results provide new data on a human muscle tested in vitro and a simple model with basic geometrical features that represent its behavior in tension under three different strain rates. This approach could be used to assess the behavior of other human muscles.
Predictors identifying those at increased risk for STDs: a theory-guided review of empirical literature and clinical guidelines
Authors: Falasinnu Titilola , Gilbert Mark , Hottes Travis Salway , Gustafson Paul , Ogilvie Gina , Shoveller Jean
Published: October 2014

Summary

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are leading causes of substantial morbidity worldwide. Identification of risk factors for estimating STD risk provides opportunities for optimising service delivery in clinical settings, including improving case finding accuracy and increasing cost-efficiency by limiting the testing of low-risk individuals. The current study was undertaken to synthesise the evidence supporting commonly cited chlamydia and gonorrhoea risk factors. The level of empirical support for the following predictors was strong/moderate: age, race/ethnicity, multiple lifetime sexual partners, sex with symptomatic partners and concurrent STD diagnosis. The following predictors had weak evidence: socio-economic status, transactional sex, drug/alcohol use, condom use and history of STD diagnosis. The most frequently listed predictors among nine clinical guidelines were younger age and multiple sexual partners; the least consistently listed predictor was inconsistent condom use. We found reasonably good concordance between risk factors consistently listed in the recommendations and predictors found to have strong empirical support in the literature. There is a need to continue building the evidence base to explicate the mechanisms and pathways of STD acquisition. We recommend periodic reviews of the level of support of predictors included in clinical guidelines to ensure that they are in accordance with empirical evidence.
Labour strategies, cross-border solidarity and the mobility of health workers: Evidence from five New Member States
Authors: Hardy Jane , Calveley Moira , Kubisa Julia , Shelley Steve
Published: October 2014

Shortages of health workers in Western Europe have been addressed, in part, by recruitment from New Member States. In addition to concerns regarding social dumping and cohesion, the loss of human capital and subsequent deleterious impact on services poses a new challenge for trade unions. The aim of this article is to examine the strategies and interventions of health worker trade unions in five countries: Hungary, Latvia, Poland, Romania and Slovakia. Union capacity is analysed through the dimensions of structural power (ability to cause disruption through industrial action); institutional power (lobbying and negotiating with appropriate bodies); and coalitional power (mobilizing support across borders with labour and non-labour organizations). While structural power is generally weak, the deployment of institutional and coalitional power has been more varied across the five countries.
Uses and meanings of ‘Yid’ in English football fandom: A case study of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
Authors: Poulton Emma , Durell Oliver
Published: October 2014

This is the first empirical study to explain the contested uses and meanings of ‘Yid’ in English football fan culture. A pertinent socio-political issue with important policy and legal implications, we explain the different uses of ‘Yid’, making central the cultural context in which it is used, together with the intent underpinning its usage. Focusing upon Kick It Out’s The Y-Word campaign film (which attempted to raise awareness of antisemitism in football by advocating a ‘zero tolerance’ policy approach to ‘Yid’), the complex relationship of Tottenham Hotspur with Judaism is unpacked. The origins of this complexity stem from Tottenham traditionally attracting Jewish fans due to nearby Jewish communities. As a consequence, Tottenham is perceived as a ‘Jewish’ club and their fans have suffered antisemitic abuse from opposing supporters who have disparagingly referred to them as ‘Yids’. In response, Tottenham fans have, since the 1970s, appropriated and embraced the term by identifying as the ‘Yid Army’. Critical analysis of fan forum discourse suggests that many Tottenham fans thought The Y-Word film failed to sufficiently understand or demarcate between the multiple meanings and intentions associated with use of ‘Yid’ as both an ethnic epithet and term of endearment. We call for an appreciation of the nature of language that acknowledges the fluidity and temporality of linguistic reclamation and ‘ownership’ in future policies to combat antisemitism.
Design and analysis of a standing-wave trapezoidal ultrasonic linear motor
Authors: Wang Yu-Jen , Chen Yi-Cheng , Shen Sheng-Chih
Published: October 2014

This study presents a standing-wave trapezoidal ultrasonic linear motor. The motor consists of a trapezoidal piezoceramic plate with slanted sidewalls and a clip fastener to achieve bidirectional linear motion. The prototype fabrication and experiments in this study confirm the validity of the proposed structure and simulation results, including the theoretical equations, the travel distance, output force, and clip force of the clip fastener. The proposed standing-wave trapezoidal ultrasonic linear motor is easy to assemble because it has only three essential components with a self-clip force on the slanted sidewalls of the trapezoidal piezoceramic plate. To reduce the sound level in the acoustic frequency range, a muted clip fastener with a pair of solid bronze rods inserted in the hollow space to decrease the emitted sound frequency was proposed. A trapezoidal piezoceramic plate sized 22 × 8 × 1.5 mm3 and providing a travel distance of 10.10 mm and an output force of 12.151 g at a driving voltage of 10 V is useful for compact products.
Severe Romiplostim-Induced Rebound Thrombocytopenia After Splenectomy for Refractory ITP
Authors: Choe Michael J. , Packer Clifford D.
Published: October 2014

Objective: To report a case of severe rebound thrombocytopenia after temporary discontinuation of romiplostim during splenectomy in the context of refractory immune (idiopathic) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Case Summary: A 65-year-old man with a history of severe refractory ITP failing multiple treatments was considered for romiplostim therapy. He was initiated on 1 µg/kg and titrated upward to 4 µg/kg to elevate and stabilize his platelet levels prior to splenectomy. On day 74 of his clinical course, his platelets increased to 434 × 109/L, and his scheduled dose of romiplostim was withheld on day 75 for fear of romiplostim-induced postsplenectomy rebound thrombocytosis. On day 78, his platelets dropped precipitously to 9 × 109/L, and he experienced multiple episodes of epistaxis. He was reinitiated at 5 µg/kg and soon recovered. He later missed a scheduled dose of romiplostim, and his platelets fell to 23 × 109/L. After resuming romiplostim at 8 µg/kg, his platelets continued to recover. Discussion: Romiplostim, a thrombopoietin mimetic is directly regulated by megakaryocytes and existing circulating platelets via a negative feedback mechanism. This explains the theoretical risk of rapid clearance of romiplostim caused by an increased platelet pool. Clinically, alternative causes of his severe postoperative thrombocytopenia were considered and deemed unlikely. The rebound effect was observed after romiplostim was withdrawn on 2 occasions, and platelet counts improved after restarting romiplostim. The Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Score of 7 suggests a probable adverse drug reaction. Conclusion: Physicians using romiplostim as a bridge to splenectomy should be cautious about withholding a scheduled dose around the time of surgery.
Analysis of the Construct Validity and Measurement Invariance of the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Makransky Guido , Rogers Mary E. , Creed Peter A.
Published: October 2014

The Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale–Short Form (CDSE-SF) is one of the most frequently used instruments to assess individual levels of career-related self-efficacy. This study used the partial credit model within the framework of item response theory to examine the content, structural, substantive, and generalizability aspects of validity for the CDSE-SF in a sample of 534 Australian high school students aged between 14 and 19 years. The results showed clear evidence of multidimensionality for the CDSE-SF. Furthermore, there was strong support for the content, structural, and substantive aspects of validity when using the five subscales individually. The evidence of measurement invariance was found across grade levels; however, there were individual items that exhibited differential item functioning across gender, achievement level, and age-groups. The implications for career counseling and research are discussed.
Validation of the Career Decision-Making Difficulties Questionnaire Among Korean College Students
Authors: Sovet Laurent , Tak Jinkook , Jung Sungcheol
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the Career Decision-Making Difficulties Questionnaire (CDDQ) among 854 college students. Confirmatory factor analyses partially confirmed the original 10-factor structure of the instrument and demonstrated metric equivalence across gender. The dysfunctional beliefs subscale was particularly inconsistent. Cronbach’s α reliabilities ranged from .66 to .88 for the CDDQ subscales and α = .92 for the CDDQ total score. The test–retest reliability for a 1-month interval was .88. The correlation between CDDQ and the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale was r = –.54 ( p < .01), which was convergent with previous studies. The undecided college students reported higher CDDQ scores than the decided college students. All the results suggested that CDDQ is a reliable instrument for assessing career decision-making difficulties in the Korean context. Implications for career interventions and research are discussed.
Are They Well Situated? Spatial Analysis of Privately Owned Public Space, Manhattan, New York City
Authors: Yoon Heeyeun , Srinivasan Sumeeta
Published: October 2014

In this article, we attempt to examine how privately owned public spaces through incentive zoning have played out as a means to generate public spaces, as part of improving spatial equity in Manhattan, New York City. Using spatial statistical analyses, we find that the inclusion of privately owned public spaces reduces overall average distance to the nearest public space from both working and living population, and helps to balance the distribution of the public spaces throughout the city, by covering the locations where publicly owned public spaces are sparse. More importantly, the location of privately owned public spaces closely aligns with potential demand from the working and tourist population, though not from the resident population. We extend the findings to policy, suggesting that allocation of privately owned public space should be implemented comprehensively rather than discretely, as well as in relationship to publicly owned public spaces, to sharpen their role in achieving fair distribution of public spaces throughout the city.
Safety Assessment of Animal- and Plant-Derived Amino Acids as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Burnett Christina , Heldreth Bart , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan
Published: October 2014

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (Panel) reviewed the safety of animal- and plant-derived amino acid mixtures, which function as skin and hair conditioning agents. The safety of α-amino acids as direct food additives has been well established, based on extensive research through acute and chronic dietary exposures and the Panel previously has reviewed the safety of individual α-amino acids in cosmetics. The Panel focused its review on dermal irritation and sensitization data relevant to the use of these ingredients in topical cosmetics. The Panel concluded that these 21 ingredients are safe in the present practices of use and concentration as used in cosmetics.
I’m Not Homophobic, “I’ve Got Gay Friends”
Authors: de Boise Sam
Published: October 2014

Anderson’s concept of “inclusive masculinity” has generated significant academic and media interest recently. It claims to have replaced hegemonic masculinity as a theoretical framework for exploring gender relations in societies that show “decreased” levels of cultural homophobia and “homohysteria”; this clearly has important implications for critical studies on men and masculinities (CSMMs). This article is divided into two parts and begins with a theoretical evaluation of work using the framework of inclusive masculinity and what it claims to offer over hegemonic masculinity. The second half is an analysis of inclusive masculinity’s conceptual division of homophobia and homohysteria. Through this analysis, it is suggested that there are several major theoretical concerns, which call into question the validity of research utilizing the framework of inclusive masculinity.
A ‘new normal’: Exploring the disruption of a poor prognostic cancer diagnosis using interviews and participant-produced photographs
Authors: Balmer Claire , Griffiths Frances , Dunn Janet
Published: October 2014

Cancer survival is increasing, and many people are living years after cancer treatment. For example, it is predicted that 46 per cent of men and 56 per cent of women diagnosed in 2007 in England and Wales will survive their cancer for 5 years or more. However, ‘survivors’ may be living with significant physical, psychological and social disruption caused by their illness. Furthermore, huge disparities exist in the outcomes for different cancer ‘types’, and there has been little investigation of those living with ‘poor prognostic’ cancers. Our aim was to explore the experience of living after the diagnosis of a poor prognostic cancer. Data were gathered from 30 people via interviews and participants’ own photographs. Our findings suggest that a full ‘recovery’ may be impossible after a cancer diagnosis. Such diagnoses will continue to threaten biographical trajectory and self-identity forever. ‘Returning to normal’ was considered highly important for participants, but a changed normality had to be accepted in which lives were managed carefully and a constant fear of recurrence created liminality and made ‘survivorship’ ambiguous. Experience was often complicated by the social response associated with cancer that hindered communication and increased isolation. Participant-produced photographs, used here for the first time specifically by a sample of people with poor prognosis cancer, proved to be an acceptable data collection method and have added a poignancy and ‘completeness’ to the data that have arguably led to a more comprehensive understanding.
Speech sound learning depends on individuals’ ability, not just experience
Authors: Archila-Suerte Pilar , Bunta Ferenc , Hernandez Arturo E.
Published: October 2014

Aims:

The goal of this study was to investigate if phonetic experience with two languages facilitated the learning of novel speech sounds or if general perceptual abilities independent of bilingualism played a role in this learning.

Method:

The underlying neural mechanisms involved in novel speech sound learning were observed in groups of English monolinguals ( n = 20), early Spanish–English bilinguals ( n = 24), and experimentally derived subgroups of individuals with advanced ability to learn novel speech sound contrasts (ALs, n = 28) and individuals with non-advanced ability to learn novel speech sound contrasts (non-ALs, n = 16). Subjects participated in four consecutive sessions of phonetic training in which they listened to novel speech sounds embedded in Hungarian pseudowords. Participants completed two fMRI sessions, one before training and another one after training. While in the scanner, participants passively listened to the speech stimuli presented during training. A repeated measures behavioral analysis and ANOVA for fMRI data were conducted to investigate learning after training.

Results and conclusions:

The results showed that bilinguals did not significantly differ from monolinguals in the learning of novel sounds behaviorally. Instead, the behavioral results revealed that regardless of language group (monolingual or bilingual), ALs were better at discriminating pseudowords throughout the training than non-ALs. Neurally, region of interest (ROI) analysis showed increased activity in the superior temporal gyrus (STG) bilaterally in ALs relative to non-ALs after training. Bilinguals also showed greater STG activity than monolinguals. Extracted values from ROIs entered into a 2×2 MANOVA showed a main effect of performance, demonstrating that individual ability exerts a significant effect on learning novel speech sounds. In fact, advanced ability to learn novel speech sound contrasts appears to play a more significant role in speech sound learning than experience with two phonological systems.
Applying individuation to conflicting social categories
Authors: Hutter Russell R. C. , Wood Chantelle
Published: October 2014

The ability to differentiate individuals from their group memberships (individuation) is useful in forming impressions when social categorization fails to do so. This method is particularly valuable when encountering incongruent social category conjunctions (e.g., female bricklayer). We tested the notion that individuation is initiated when applying cognitively effortful explanatory, emergent attributes to incongruent conjunctions. Incongruent category conjunctions were more likely to be comprised of emergent attributes and individuation moderated the application of these attributes in Experiment 1. In Experiment 2, individuation again moderated emergent attribute application for incongruent conjunctions, but cognitive load attenuated the relationship. Allowing or preventing the generation of attributes did not affect individuation for incongruent conjunctions in Experiment 3. This ruled out the possibility that emergent attributes cause increased individuation, but does not rule out the notion that individuation precedes such explanatory attributes. Together these findings suggest that individuating those whose category memberships clash may be applied in the effortful application of explanatory emergent attributes.
Management of renin-angiotensin system blockade in patients with chronic kidney disease under specialist care. Retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Tylicki Leszek , Jakubowska Agnieszka , Lizakowski Sławomir , Świetlik Dariusz , Rutkowski Bolesław
Published: October 2014

Background:

Reduction of blood pressure and proteinuria by blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) has been the cornerstone of renoprotective intervention for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) for many years.

Aims:

The aims were to check the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and/or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) in CKD patients.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study analysing data from medical records of patients who received specialist care in 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011 in the Outpatient Unit.

Results:

The numbers of CKD subjects included in the four independent surveys were as follows: 190, 490, 1799, 1696. The usage of RAAS blocking agents overall increased significantly in subsequent years as follows: 25, 49, 63, 74%. Patients with proteinuria and cardiovascular complications and/or diabetes were receiving RAAS blocking agents more commonly than others. The use of ACEI and/ or ARB in stage 4–5 CKD increased in subsequent years. In 2011 dual RAAS blockade was used in 10% CKD patients overall and 19% patients presented proteinuria.

Conclusion:

The use of RAAS blocking agents were increasing in CKD patients under specialist care between 1996–2011. The quality of the management was gradually improved.
Serum prorenin levels are not associated with ocular diseases in non-diabetic subjects
Authors: Yokota Harumasa , Nagaoka Taiji , Sato Eiichi , Takahashi Atsushi , Shimouchi Akito , Yoshida Akitoshi
Published: October 2014

Introduction:

To determine if the serum prorenin level is useful for detecting ocular disease in a non-diabetic population.

Materials and methods:

We enrolled non-diabetic men ( n = 402) and women ( n = 349) in our study. We used the antibody-activating direct enzyme kinetic assay of human prorenin to determine serum prorenin levels. We performed multiple regression analysis to determine the factors that affect serum prorenin levels, such as: age, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, and HbA1c or estimated glomerular filtration rate. Our study subjects were divided into groups by their ophthalmologic diagnosis. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to detect a significant difference in the serum prorenin levels among the groups.

Results:

There were no significant differences in serum prorenin levels among the ocular diseases and disorders. The DBP was negatively correlated with serum prorenin levels in men ( r = − 0.1992; p = 0.021) and in women ( r = − 0.2067; p = 0.031).

Conclusion:

Considering the current results and those of previous studies together, we found that the prorenin value is useful solely for predicting development of diabetic retinopathy in adults.
Transplantation of periaortic adipose tissue from angiotensin receptor blocker-treated mice markedly ameliorates atherosclerosis development in apoE–/– mice
Authors: Irie Daisuke , Kawahito Hiroyuki , Wakana Noriyuki , Kato Taku , Kishida Sou , Kikai Masakazu , Ogata Takehiro , Ikeda Koji , Ueyama Tomomi , Matoba Satoaki , Yamada Hiroyuki
Published: October 2014

Background:

Perivascular adipose tissue is implicated in vasoreactivity; however, its effect on atherosclerosis remains undefined.

Methods and results:

We examined the effect of a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) on phenotypic alterations of the thoracic periaortic adipose tissue (tPAT) in apoE-deficient (apoE–/–) mice. Gene expression of the components of the renin angiotensin system and that of macrophage markers were significantly higher in apoE–/– mice fed an HCD than in those fed a chow diet (CD). These changes were absent both in angiotensin II (AngII) receptor blocker (ARB)-treated apoE–/– mice and in Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptor-deficient apoE–/– (Agtr1–/–/apoE–/–) mice. To evaluate their effect on atherosclerosis, we transplanted tPAT into apoE–/– mice alongside the distal abdominal aorta. Transplanted tPAT was harvested from apoE–/– and Agtr1–/–/apoE–/– mice fed a CD (tPAT-CD/apoE–/–, tPAT-CD/Agtr1–/–/apoE–/–), HCD (tPAT-HCD/apoE–/–, tPAT-HCD/Agtr1–/–/apoE–/–), or HCD in combination with ARB treatment (tPAT-HCD/ARB/apoE–/–). Four weeks after transplantation, a significantly increased oil red O-positive area was observed in the aorta of tPAT-HCD/apoE–/– mice than in tPAT-CD/apoE–/– mice. Such a change was absent in tPAT-HCD/ARB/apoE–/– and tPAT-HCD/Agtr1–/–/apoE–/– mice.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrated that AT1 receptor plays a crucial role in HCD-induced phenotypic alterations of tPAT, modulation of which could exert beneficial effects on atherosclerosis.
Quantitative Kinematic Characterization of Reaching Impairments in Mice After a Stroke
Authors: Lai Stefano , Panarese Alessandro , Spalletti Cristina , Alia Claudia , Ghionzoli Alessio , Caleo Matteo , Micera Silvestro
Published: October 2014

Background and Objective. Kinematic analysis of reaching movements is increasingly used to evaluate upper extremity function after cerebrovascular insults in humans and has also been applied to rodent models. Such analyses can require time-consuming frame-by-frame inspections and are affected by the experimenter’s bias. In this study, we introduce a semi-automated algorithm for tracking forepaw movements in mice. This methodology allows us to calculate several kinematic measures for the quantitative assessment of performance in a skilled reaching task before and after a focal cortical stroke. Methods. Mice were trained to reach for food pellets with their preferred paw until asymptotic performance was achieved. Photothrombosis was then applied to induce a focal ischemic injury in the motor cortex, contralateral to the trained limb. Mice were tested again once a week for 30 days. A high frame rate camera was used to record the movements of the paw, which was painted with a nontoxic dye. An algorithm was then applied off-line to track the trajectories and to compute kinematic measures for motor performance evaluation. Results. The tracking algorithm proved to be fast, accurate, and robust. A number of kinematic measures were identified as sensitive indicators of poststroke modifications. Based on end-point measures, ischemic mice appeared to improve their motor performance after 2 weeks. However, kinematic analysis revealed the persistence of specific trajectory adjustments up to 30 days poststroke, indicating the use of compensatory strategies. Conclusions. These results support the use of kinematic analysis in mice as a tool for both detection of poststroke functional impairments and tracking of motor improvements following rehabilitation. Similar studies could be performed in parallel with human studies to exploit the translational value of this skilled reaching analysis.
Interrater Reliability of the Wolf Motor Function Test–Functional Ability Scale
Authors: Duff Susan V. , He Jiaxiu , Nelsen Monica A. , Lane Christianne J. , Rowe Veronica T. , Wolf Steve L. , Dromerick Alexander W. , Winstein Carolee J.
Published: October 2014

Background. One important objective for clinical trialists in rehabilitation is determining efficacy of interventions to enhance motor behavior. In part, limitation in the precision of measurement presents a challenge. The few valid, low-cost observational tools available to assess motor behavior cannot escape the variability inherent in test administration and scoring. This is especially true when there are multiple evaluators and raters, as in the case of multisite randomized controlled trials (RCTs). One way to enhance reliability and reduce variability is to implement rigorous quality control (QC) procedures. Objective. This article describes a systematic QC process used to refine the administration and scoring procedures for the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT)–Functional Ability Scale (FAS). Methods. The QC process, a systematic focus-group collaboration, was developed and used for a phase III RCT, which enlisted multiple evaluators and an experienced WMFT-FAS rater panel. Results. After 3 staged refinements to the administration and scoring instructions, we achieved a sufficiently high interrater reliability (weighted κ = 0.8). Conclusions and Implications. A systematic focus-group process was shown to be an effective method to improve reliability of observational assessment tools for motor behavior in neurorehabilitation. A reduction in noise-related variability in performance assessments will increase power and potentially lower the number needed to treat. Improved precision of measurement can lead to more cost-effective and efficient clinical trials. Finally, we suggest that improved precision in measures of motor behavior may provide more insight into recovery mechanisms than a single measure of movement time alone.
Training Intensity Affects Motor Rehabilitation Efficacy Following Unilateral Ischemic Insult of the Sensorimotor Cortex in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Bell Jared A. , Wolke Malerie L. , Ortez Ryan C. , Jones Theresa A. , Kerr Abigail L.
Published: October 2014

Background. Motor rehabilitative training improves behavioral functionality and promotes beneficial neural reorganization following stroke but is often insufficient to normalize function. Rodent studies have relied on skilled reaching tasks to model motor rehabilitation and explore factors contributing to its efficacy. It has been found that greater training intensity (sessions/day) and duration (training days) facilitates motor skill learning in intact animals. Whether rehabilitative training efficacy varies with intensity following stroke is unclear. Methods. Mice were trained preoperatively on a skilled reaching task. Following focal ischemic lesions, mice received rehabilitative training either twice daily (high intensity [HI]), once daily (low intensity [LI]), or not at all (control) to determine the effects of rehabilitative training intensity on skilled motor performance. Results. Within 7 days, the HI-trained mice achieved preischemic levels of performance. Mice receiving LI training eventually reached similar performance levels but required a greater quantity of training. Training intensity did not consistently affect the maintenance of performance gains, which were partially lost over time in both groups. Discussion. These data indicate that increased training intensity increases the rate of functional improvements per time and per training session following ischemic insult. Thus, training intensity is an important variable to consider in efforts to optimize rehabilitation efficacy.
Investing in health: A wake up call to leaders
Authors: Weissner Peter , Palumbo Leonardo
Published: October 2014

In the current context of reaching budget deficit targets that is pushed by the European Union, this article looks at the impacts on health systems. With new legislation on economic governance, for the first time, the European Union has a bigger role in health systems at national level. The article explores the role for stakeholders, provides examples of successful European Union collaboration and upcoming initiatives in economic governance. The article makes the economic case used by health advocates to the importance of considering health expenditure as an investment and considers the role for health systems in society.
Spontaneous live unilateral twin ectopic pregnancy – A case presentation
Authors: Vohra Suman , Mahsood Shazia , Shelton Hannah , Zaedi Khaled , Economides DL
Published: October 2014

The incidence of ectopic pregnancy has increased in recent years and now is around one in 100 pregnancies. However, the incidence of live twin ectopic pregnancy in a spontaneous conception is still quite rare. A 34-year-old gravida 3, para 0 presented in the Early Pregnancy Unit with a positive pregnancy test, lower abdominal pain and vaginal spotting. Her quantitative serum Beta hCG was high, and the transvaginal scan revealed an empty uterine cavity with a twin ectopic pregnancy in the left adnexa with cardiac activity in both embryos. The patient was taken for laparoscopic surgery and a left ampullary twin pregnancy was confirmed. She underwent a left salpingectomy and is well on a one-year follow-up. This case report discusses the incidence, diagnoses and treatment of ectopic pregnancies in general.
The Experiential Incompatibility of Mindfulness and Flow Absorption
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Prentice Mike , Halusic Marc
Published: October 2014

Mindfulness and flow are both beneficial states of mind, but are they difficult to experience simultaneously? After all, flow involves losing self-awareness within an activity, and mindfulness involves maintaining self-awareness throughout or even despite an activity. In three studies, we examine this potential antagonism, finding negative associations between mindfulness and flow as assessed in a variety of ways and contexts. These associations emerged within Global trait data and diary data concerning daily goal behavior (Study 1), experience-sampling data concerning behavior at the time of signaling (Study 2), and experimental data concerning the experience of playing the flow-conducive computer game, Tetris, after undergoing a mindfulness induction (Study 3). However, these associations only apply to the “absorption” aspect of flow, not the “sense of control” aspect.
The effect of different biologic and biosynthetic wound covers on keratinocyte growth, stratification and differentiation in vitro
Authors: Matoušková Eva , Mestak Ondrej
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to compare, by means of in vitro cultivation technique, five marketed brands of wound covers used in the treatment of burns and other skin defects (Biobrane®, Suprathel®, Veloderm®, Xe-Derma®, and Xenoderm®) for their ability to stimulate the keratinocyte growth, stratification, and differentiation. In three independent experiments, human keratinocytes were grown on the tested covers in organotypic cultures by the 3T3 feeder layer technique. Vertical paraffin sections of the wound covers with keratinocytes were processed using hematoxylin–eosin staining and immunostaining for involucrin. Keratinocyte populations on the dressings were assessed for (1) number of keratinocyte strata (primary variable), (2) quantitative growth, (3) thickness of the keratinocyte layer, and (4) cell differentiation. The Xe-Derma wound cover provided the best support to keratinocyte proliferation and stratification, with the number of keratinocyte strata significantly (p < 0.05) higher in comparison to all products studied, except Xenoderm. However, in contrast to Xe-Derma, Xenoderm did not significantly differ from the other dressings. The results of this in vitro study show that the brands based on porcine dermal matrix possess the strongest effect on keratinocyte proliferation and stratification. The distinctive position of Xe-Derma may be related to its composition, where natural dermal fibers form a smooth surface, similar to the basement membrane. Furthermore, the results indicate that in vitro evaluation of effects on epithelial growth may accelerate the development of new bio-engineering-based wound covers.
Predictors of Police Reporting Among Hispanic Immigrant Victims of Violence
Authors: Hautala Dane , Dombrowski Kirk , Marcus Anthony
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of police reporting among Hispanic immigrant victims of violence. A sample of 127 Hispanic immigrants was generated through a chain-referral procedure in the city of Hempstead, New York. Participants were asked about their most recent victimization experiences, and detailed information was collected on up to three incidents. The analyses were based on a total of 214 separate victimization incidents, one third of which were reported to the police. Logistic regression analyses indicated that serious injury, multiple-victim incidents, and perceptions of discrimination increase the odds of a police report. Moreover, incidents involving a Black primary assailant were less likely to be reported to the police than incidents involving an assailant perceived to be of Hispanic origin. Supplementary analyses suggested that this latter relationship may be contingent upon the type of crime and the victim’s relationship with the assailant. At the policy level, these findings call into question assumptions about very recent immigrants being too socially isolated and distrustful of law enforcement to sustain robust reporting levels, as well as pointing to encouraging possibilities for productive engagement between police and Hispanic immigrant populations.
Text(ing) in Context
Authors: Kiddie Thomas J.
Published: October 2014

Following Rogers’s theory of the diffusion of innovations, the author questions whether youth entering the workforce will act as change agents to evolve primary business communication channels from email to text-messaging. Expanding on research performed in 2009, the author investigates three communication scenarios: scheduling meetings, exchanging information in the workplace, and keeping in contact with family and friends. Follow-up research also gathers information about communication hardware trends. The author concludes that change agents and early adopters already in the company, not new hires, will effect a change in communication media that will involve new technology such as smartphones.
Expanding Omani Learners’ Horizons Through Project-Based Learning
Authors: Dauletova Victoria
Published: October 2014

As a relatively innovative teaching/learning approach in the Arabian Gulf region, in general, and in Oman, in particular, project-based learning requires progressive amendments and adaptations to the national culture of the learner. This article offers analysis of the current state of the approach in the local educational environment. Furthermore, it introduces the challenges of applying this unconventional type of instruction to Omani learners together with their response to the new learning conditions and philosophy. It also offers ideas on adaptations and implementation of project-based learning within the Arabian Gulf undergraduate student community.
Using Oral Exams to Assess Communication Skills in Business Courses
Authors: Burke-Smalley Lisa A.
Published: October 2014

Business, like many other fields in higher education, continues to rely largely on conventional testing methods for assessing student learning. In the current article, another evaluation approach—the oral exam—is examined as a means for building and evaluating the professional communication and oral dialogue skills needed and utilized by business graduates. Prior studies of oral exams in higher education are reviewed, along with the empirical findings from an exploratory investigation of an oral exam in an undergraduate human resource course. Implications for future research and the use of oral exams in business education are also presented.
The Impromptu Gauntlet
Authors: Yale Robert N.
Published: October 2014

Typical business communication courses provide significantly more opportunities for students to hone their skills in writing compared with speaking. This article outlines an impromptu speech assignment and explains a course-level strategy for providing each student with more than 30 significant speaking opportunities during a term. This approach has proven to be surprisingly popular as students observe a remarkable transformation in their confidence and competence with presentational speaking. Teaching strategies, assignment guidelines, results, and additional resources are presented.
Mythologizing Change
Authors: Rawlins Jacob D.
Published: October 2014

This article explores how rhetorical myth can be used as a tool for persuading employees to accept change and to maintain consensus during the process. It defines rhetorical myth using three concepts: chronographia (a rhetorical interpretation of history), epideictic prediction (defining a present action by assigning praise and blame to both past and future), and communal markers (using Burkean identification and rhetorically defined boundary objects to define a community). The article reports on a 3-year ethnographic study that documents the development of a rhetorical myth at Iowa State University’s Printing Services department as it underwent changes to its central software system.
Navigating Change
Authors: DuFrene Debbie D. , Lehman Carol M.
Published: October 2014

Employees often perceive periods of change—no matter how warranted or beneficial—as crises, exhibiting both cognitive and emotional reactions including feelings of insecurity and uncertainty, even fear, chaos, stress, betrayal, grief, and anger. Management must have a clear strategy for communicating with employees through change, as employee expectations for open and honest communication are increased in times of shift and uncertainty. Open, honest, and regular communication is essential to keeping employees motivated and productive. Benefits of effective communication in times of change include higher employee satisfaction and engagement, lower turnover, and stronger long-term commitment. Solid internal relationships also strengthen ethics-related outcomes such as fraud reduction and reputation management.
#Music Students
Authors: Gooding Lori F. , Yinger Olivia Swedberg , Gregory Dianne
Published: October 2014

The purpose of the study was to investigate music education and music therapy majors’ use of Twitter and their perceptions and knowledge related to policies and practices. Music majors ( N = 238) from five universities in the Southeastern and Midwestern United States participated in a 16-question researcher-designed survey. Results indicated that Twitter was most often used for social purposes. Academic use of Twitter was reported less frequently. Music education majors were likely to have knowledge of Twitter-based incidences of unprofessional content. Similar Twitter usage was reported in terms of gender. Student/faculty classroom interactions involving Twitter were minimal. Implications and avenues for possible future research are discussed.
Breathprints of model murine bacterial lung infections are linked with immune response
Authors: Bean Heather D. , Jiménez-Díaz Jaime , Zhu Jiangjiang , Hill Jane E.
Published: October 2014

In this model study, we explored the host's contribution of breath volatiles to diagnostic secondary electrospray ionisation-mass spectrometry (SESI-MS) breathprints for acute bacterial lung infections, their correlation with the host's immune response, and their use in identifying the lung pathogen.

Murine airways were exposed toPseudomonas aeruginosaandStaphylococcus aureusbacterial cell lysates or to PBS (controls), and their breath and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected at six time points (from 6 to 120 h) after exposure. Five to six mice per treatment group and four to six mice per control group were sampled at each time. Breath volatiles were analysed using SESI-MS and the BALF total leukocytes, polymorphonuclear neutrophils, lactate dehydrogenase activity, and cytokine concentrations were quantified.

Lysate exposure breathprints contain host volatiles that persist for up to 120 h; are pathogen specific; are unique from breathprints of controls, active infections and cleared infections; and are correlated with the host's immune response.

Bacterial lung infections induce changes to the host's breath volatiles that are selective and specific predictors of the source of infection. Harnessing the pathogen-specific volatiles in the host's breath may provide useful information for detecting latent bacterial lung infections and managing the spread of respiratory diseases.