bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disability in Moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Prevalence, Burden and Assessment - Results from a Real-Life Study
Authors: Braido Fulvio , Baiardini Ilaria , Scichilone Nicola , Sorino Claudio , Di Marco Fabiano , Corsico Angelo , Santus Pierachille , Girbino Giuseppe , Di Maria Giuseppe , Mereu Carlo , Sabato Eugenio , Foschino Barbaro Maria Pia , Cuttitta Giuseppina , Zolezzi Alberto , Bucca Caterina , Balestracci Sara , Canonica Giorgio Walter
Published: January 2015

Background: The role of disability and its association with patient-reported outcomes in the nonsevere forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has never been explored. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess, in a cross-sectional real-life study, the prevalence and degree of disability in moderate COPD patients and to assess its association with health status, illness perception, risk of death and well-being. Methods: Moderate COPD outpatients attending scheduled visits were involved in a quantitative research program using a questionnaire-based data collection method. Results: Out of 694 patients, 17.4% were classified as disabled and 47.6% reported the loss of at least one relevant function of daily living. Disabled patients did not differ from nondisabled patients in terms of working status (p = 0.06), smoking habits (p = 0.134) and ongoing treatment (p = 0.823); however, the former showed a significantly higher disease burden as measured by illness perception, health status and well-being. The stepwise regression analysis showed that the modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) score was the most relevant factor related to COPD disability (F = 38.248; p = 0.001). Patient stratification was possible according to the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) value and an mMRC score ≥2, which identified disabled patients, whereas the mMRC values were differently associated with the risk of disability. Conclusion: A significant proportion of individuals with moderate COPD reported a limitation of daily life functions, with dyspnea being the most relevant factor inducing disability. Adding the evaluation of patient-reported outcomes to lung function assessment could facilitate the identification of disabled patients.
Influence of Human Activities on the Historical and Current Distribution of Sichuan Snub-Nosed Monkeys in the Qinling Mountains, China
Authors: Wang Chengliang , Wang Xiaowei , Qi Xiaoguang , Guo Songtao , Zhao Haitao , Wei Wei , Li Baoguo
Published: January 2015

Due to their rich animal diversity and the presence of rare and endemic species, the Qinling Mountains are listed as a significant global biodiversity area. The Sichuan snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus roxellana) has been distributed in this area since the Middle Pleistocene. Due to the gradual encroachment of humans into their habitat, both the distribution range and population sizes of R. roxellana have significantly decreased. Based on literature research as well as field and questionnaires, we investigated the influence of human activities on R. roxellana distribution in the Qinling Mountains. Human activity within the habitat of R. roxellana began in the Stone and Bronze Ages, though initially it had no significant influence on its populations. When China entered the Iron Age, however, different historical and social periods had a considerable impact on R. roxellana distribution. Although national and provincial level governments introduced strict protection policies with the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949, human activities continued to influence R. roxellana distribution. Since the launch of the Natural Forest Protection Project across the Qinling Mountains in 1999, the quality of R. roxellana habitat has shown marked improvement. This research will help promote the survival and conservation of the Sichuan snub-nosed monkey in the Qinling Mountains.
Histogram-Based Quantitative Evaluation of Endobronchial Ultrasonography Images of Peripheral Pulmonary Lesion
Authors: Morikawa Kei , Kurimoto Noriaki , Inoue Takeo , Mineshita Masamichi , Miyazawa Teruomi
Published: January 2015

Background: Endobronchial ultrasonography using a guide sheath (EBUS-GS) is an increasingly common bronchoscopic technique, but currently, no methods have been established to quantitatively evaluate EBUS images of peripheral pulmonary lesions. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether histogram data collected from EBUS-GS images can contribute to the diagnosis of lung cancer. Methods: Histogram-based analyses focusing on the brightness of EBUS images were retrospectively conducted: 60 patients (38 lung cancer; 22 inflammatory diseases), with clear EBUS images were included. For each patient, a 400-pixel region of interest was selected, typically located at a 3- to 5-mm radius from the probe, from recorded EBUS images during bronchoscopy. Histogram height, width, height/width ratio, standard deviation, kurtosis and skewness were investigated as diagnostic indicators. Results: Median histogram height, width, height/width ratio and standard deviation were significantly different between lung cancer and benign lesions (all p < 0.01). With a cutoff value for standard deviation of 10.5, lung cancer could be diagnosed with an accuracy of 81.7%. Other characteristics investigated were inferior when compared to histogram standard deviation. Conclusions: Histogram standard deviation appears to be the most useful characteristic for diagnosing lung cancer using EBUS images.
High-Resolution Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization Utility in Polish Newborns with Isolated Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Szczałuba Krzysztof , Nowakowska Beata A. , Sobecka Katarzyna , Smyk Marta , Castaneda Jennifer , Dudkiewicz Zofia , Kutkowska-Kaźmierczak Anna , Sąsiadek Maria M. , Śmigiel Robert , Bocian Ewa
Published: January 2015

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate is one of the most common birth defects of unknown etiology. A fraction of its genetic causes is attributable to copy number variations detected by array comparative genomic hybridization. The value of array comparative genomic hybridization screening as a first-tier test in the newborn population with multiple congenital anomalies has now been accepted. Due to unspecific clinical picture at this age, it can also be applied to neonates with isolated anomalies. Our purpose was to assess utility of array comparative genomic hybridization in the population of newborns with isolated cleft lip and palate. We conducted the study in a group of 52 Polish newborns with apparently isolated cleft lip and palate. In the study group, we found 8 rearrangements. Of these, 2 de novo events have been noted that potentially explain the phenotype. In addition, 2 novel candidate genes for cleft lip and palate, CHN2 and CDH19, are suggested. Given the high number of inherited potentially benign changes, we question the clinical utility of array comparative genomic hybridization in the newborn population with isolated cleft lip and palate, at the same time pointing to the need of skilled professional's clinical assessment at a later age. However, the value of this technology in searching for the cause of isolated anomalies cannot be underestimated.
Trimetazidine Pretreatment Inhibits Myocardial Apoptosis and Improves Cardiac Function in a Swine Model of Coronary Microembolization
Authors: Liu Yang-Chun , Li Lang , Su Qiang , Liu Tao , Tang Zhong-li
Published: January 2015

Objective: Trimetazidine (TMZ) is a well-known anti-ischemic agent; however, its efficacy and mechanism of cardioprotection on coronary microembolization (CME) are largely unknown. The present study was undertaken to determine whether TMZ pretreatment could attenuate myocardial apoptosis and improve cardiac function in a swine model of CME. Methods: Fifteen swine were randomly and equally divided into a sham-operated (control) group, CME group and CME plus TMZ (TMZ) group. CME was induced by injecting inert plastic microspheres (42 μm in diameter) into the left anterior descending artery. For the control group, the same dose of normal saline was substituted for the microspheres, and the TMZ group was pretreated with TMZ 30 min before microsphere injection. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography, myocardial apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining, and the expression levels of cleaved caspase-9/3 were measured by Western blot 12 h after operation. Results: Compared to the control group, cardiac function in the CME group was significantly decreased (p < 0.05); however, TMZ pretreatment showed significantly improved cardiac function as compared to the CME group (p < 0.05). The myocardial apoptotic rate and the expression levels of cleaved caspase-9/3 increased remarkably in CME group as compared with the control group (p < 0.001). Again, TMZ pretreatment significantly reduced the apoptotic rate and also the expression levels of cleaved caspase-9/3 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that TMZ pretreatment could significantly inhibit CME-induced myocardial apoptosis and improve cardiac function, and that the cardioprotective effect appeared to be mediated by the blockade of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. These results emphasize the importance of TMZ pretreatment in the therapy of CME-induced myocardial injury.
Serious and Long-Term Adverse Events Associated with the Therapeutic and Cosmetic Use of Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Yiannakopoulou Eugenia
Published: January 2015

Although botulinum toxin is generally considered safe, its widespread use and the constantly expanded indications raise safety issues. This study aimed to review the serious and long-term adverse events associated with the therapeutic and cosmetic use of botulinum toxin. Serious adverse events included dysphagia, respiratory compromise, generalized muscle weakness, marked bilateral ptosis, pseudoaneurysm of the frontal branch of the temporal artery, necrotizing fasciitis, sarcoidal granuloma, Fournier gangrene, and cervical kyphosis. Death was attributed to botulism or anaphylactic shock. In conclusion, botulinum toxin may cause serious adverse events, which are more common after its therapeutic use, but can also be noticed after its cosmetic use. Thorough knowledge of the anatomy of the treated muscles and of the pharmacology of the drug is imperative to avoid serious adverse events.
Factors Influencing Lymph Node Metastasis in Patients with Ampullary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Okano Keiichi , Asano Eisuke , Kushida Yoshio , Kamada Hideki , Mori Hirohito , Suzuki Yasuyuki
Published: January 2015

Aim: In cases of ampullary carcinoma, lymph node involvement affects the selection of treatment strategies. This study aimed to identify clinicopathologic features of ampullary carcinoma with lymph node metastases. Methods: The records of 74 consecutive patients with ampullary adenocarcinoma who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) with regional lymph node dissection were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Twenty-two patients (30%) with lymph node metastasis had significantly worse survival after resection than those without lymph node metastasis (p = 0.017). Univariate analyses revealed that preoperative biliary drainage; elevated serum carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (≥36 U/ml); moderate-to-poor pathologic grade (G2/3); perineural, vascular, lymphatic, pancreas, and duodenal invasion; and T category were significantly associated with lymph node metastasis. In multivariate analysis, only pathologic grade (G2/3) remained significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (hazard ratio, 6.51; p = 0.035). In sub-classified analysis for T category, lymph node metastasis was found in 5 of 22 cases (22.7%) of T1 tumors. Four of five cases with lymph node metastases had a dominant G2/3 component, whereas only 2 of 17 cases without lymph node metastases had a G2/3 component in T1 tumors (p = 0.0036). Conclusions: Pathologic grade (G2/3) was significantly and independently associated with lymph node metastasis and was also a significant predictor in T1 tumor cases.
Implementation of Intraoperative Neurophysiological Monitoring during Endovascular Procedures in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Martinez Piñeiro Alicia , Cubells Carles , Garcia Pablo , Castaño Carlos , Dávalos Antonio , Coll-Canti Jaume
Published: January 2015

Background and Objective: Intraoperative monitoring (IOM) has been used in different surgical disciplines since the 1980s. Nonetheless, regular routine use of IOM in interventional neuroradiology units has only been reported in a few centers. The aim of this study is to report our experience, 1 year after deciding to implement standardized IOM during endovascular treatment of vascular abnormalities of the central nervous system. Methods: Basic recordings included somatosensory-evoked potentials (SEPs) and motor-evoked potentials (MEPs). Corticobulbar motor-evoked potentials and flash-visual-evoked potentials were also recorded depending on the topography of the lesion. Intra-arterial provocative tests (PTs) with amobarbital and lidocaine were also performed. All patients except 1 were under total intravenous anesthesia. Clinical outcome was assessed prospectively and correlated with IOM events. Results: Twelve patients and 15 procedures were monitored during the inclusion period. Significant IOM events were detected during 3 of the 15 procedures (20%). We observed temporary MEP changes in 2 cases which resolved after interruption of the embolization or application of corrective measures, leaving no postoperative neurological deficits. In 1 case, persistent SEP and MEP deterioration was detected secondary to a frontal hematoma, resulting in mild sensory-motor deficit in the right upper extremity after the procedure. Overall, 12 PTs (4 spinal cord and 8 brain abnormalities) were performed using lidocaine and sodium amytal injections. One positive result occurred after the injection of lidocaine. No false negatives were detected. Conclusions: IOM may provide continuous real-time data about the functional status of eloquent areas and pathways of the central nervous system in patients under general anesthesia. It therefore allows us to detect early neurological damage in time to perform specific actions that may prevent irreversible neurological deficits.
Disgust, Moral Disgust, and Morality
Authors: Gert Joshua
Published: January 2015

This paper calls into question the idea that moral disgust is usefully regarded as a form of genuine disgust. This hypothesis is questionable even if, as some have argued, the spread of moral norms through a community makes use of signaling mechanisms that are central to core disgust. The signaling system is just one part of disgust, and may well be completely separable from it. Moreover, there is plausibly a significant difference between the cognitive scientist’s concept of an emotion and the everyday notion of that emotion. Finally, even if, as this paper contests, some form of disgust were directly elicited by the moral wrongness of certain kinds of behavior, research on the socio-moral elicitors of the disgust mechanism would still be unlikely to shed much direct light on the nature or content of morality.
Perfect in Every Sense
Authors: Gaulke Karsten
Published: January 2015

At the center of this article is an iconographic analysis of the eight silver reliefs on the sides of a table clock made in 1591 by Jost Bürgi, the court clockmaker of Landgrave Wilhelm IV of Hessen-Kassel. The reliefs present an astronomical ancestral picture gallery, running from the Patriarchs of the Old Testament to Copernicus. The author argues that the “storyboard” for this sequence of images must have been conceived down to its smallest details by the Kassel court astronomer Christoph Rothmann; indeed, many of the scenes shown, along with many particular details depicted within them, are literally described in Rothmann’s never-published manuscript Observationes stellarum fixarum of 1589. The final section of the essay compares these reliefs to the images created for Tycho Brahe at his Uraniborg and Stjerneborg observatories. The author concludes that the sequence of the reliefs in Kassel, culminating in the representation of Copernicus and his world view, is a reflection of the acrimonious debate extending over many years between the heliocentrist Rothmann and the geo-heliocentrist Brahe regarding the veracity of the heliocentric world view.
Les Observatoires astronomiques en Italie
Authors: Bianchi Simone , Galli Daniele
Published: January 2015

In the autumn of 1863 Otto Wilhelm Struve, director of the Pulkovo Astronomical Observatory in Russia, visited most of the observatories in Italy. The report that he wrote on this occasion provides an overview on the conditions of astronomical research in Italy just after the unification of the country. Later Struve sent a French translation of his report to the Italian astronomer Giovan Battista Donati, who used it to promote the construction of the Arcetri Observatory in Florence, which was inaugurated in 1872. We present here a transcription of the French translation of Struve’s report and the transcription of a letter written by him in support of Donati’s project.
A taxonomic revision of Swertia L. (Gentianaceae) in South India, with one new species and seven lectotypifications
Authors: Nampy Santhosh , P.M. Shahina , T Haseena , H.S. Ashwini
Published: January 2015

The genus Swertia in South India is revisited based on field and herbarium studies. A brief history of the genus, detailed descriptions, photo plates, nomenclature, distribution and key to the identification of south Indian species are provided. Seven names viz., Swertia beddomei, S. trichotoma, S. affinis, S. lawii, S. minor, Ophelia elegans and O. umbellata are lectotypified. A new species, Swertia raveendrae, endemic to South India is also described here. The new species is similar to S. lawii but differs by its cordate-orbicular leaves, dense paniculate cymes, small (0.3–1 cm long), ovate-elliptic bracts and the calyx not exceeding the corolla in bud.
New Indo-Pacific species of the genus Teretia Norman, 1888 (Gastropoda: Raphitomidae)
Authors: MORASSI MAURO , BONFITTO ANTONIO
Published: January 2015

Four new species are assigned to the genus Teretia Norman, 1888 in the family Raphitomidae Bellardi, 1875 and herein described: Teretia neocaledonica sp. nov., T. sysoevi sp. nov., T. tongaensis sp. nov. from the southeastern Pacific and Teretia tavianii sp. nov. from the Gulf of Aden. The new species represent the first Indo-Pacific record of a genus previously known in the recent molluscan fauna by only two species from the Atlantic Ocean-Mediterranean Sea and Southern Africa. A possible Tethyan origin for the genus Teretia is suggested.
Environmental Analysis of GOES-R Proving Ground Convection-Initiation Forecasting Algorithms
Authors: Apke Jason M. , Nietfeld Daniel , Anderson Mark R.
Published: January 2015

Enhanced temporal and spatial resolution of the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite–R Series (GOES-R) will allow for the use of cloud-top-cooling-based convection-initiation (CI) forecasting algorithms. Two such algorithms have been created on the current generation of GOES: the University of Wisconsin cloud-top-cooling algorithm (UWCTC) and the University of Alabama in Huntsville’s satellite convection analysis and tracking algorithm (SATCAST). Preliminary analyses of algorithm products have led to speculation over preconvective environmental influences on algorithm performance. An objective validation approach is developed to separate algorithm products into positive and false indications. Seventeen preconvective environmental variables are examined for the positive and false indications to improve algorithm output. The total dataset consists of two time periods in the late convective season of 2012 and the early convective season of 2013. Data are examined for environmental relationships using principal component analysis (PCA) and quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA). Data fusion by QDA is tested for SATCAST and UWCTC on five separate case-study days to determine whether application of environmental variables improves satellite-based CI forecasting. PCA and significance testing revealed that positive indications favored environments with greater vertically integrated instability (CAPE), less stability (CIN), and more low-level convergence. QDA improved both algorithms on all five case studies using significantly different variables. This study provides an examination of environmental influences on the performance of GOES-R Proving Ground CI forecasting algorithms and shows that integration of QDA in the cloud-top-cooling-based algorithms using environmental variables will ultimately generate a more skillful product.
How Climate Change Affects Extremes in Maize and Wheat Yield in Two Cropping Regions
Authors: Ummenhofer Caroline C. , Xu Hong , Twine Tracy E. , Girvetz Evan H. , McCarthy Heather R. , Chhetri Netra , Nicholas Kimberly A.
Published: January 2015

Downscaled climate model projections from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) were used to force a dynamic vegetation agricultural model (Agro-IBIS) and simulate yield responses to historical climate and two future emissions scenarios for maize in the U.S. Midwest and wheat in southeastern Australia. In addition to mean changes in yield, the frequency of high- and low-yield years was related to changing local hydroclimatic conditions. Particular emphasis was on the seasonal cycle of climatic variables during extreme-yield years and links to crop growth.

While historically high (low) yields in Iowa tend to occur during years with anomalous wet (dry) growing season, this is exacerbated in the future. By the end of the twenty-first century, the multimodel mean (MMM) of growing season temperatures in Iowa is projected to increase by more than 5°C, and maize yield is projected to decrease by 18%. For southeastern Australia, the frequency of low-yield years rises dramatically in the twenty-first century because of significant projected drying during the growing season. By the late twenty-first century, MMM growing season precipitation in southeastern Australia is projected to decrease by 15%, temperatures are projected to increase by 2.8°–4.5°C, and wheat yields are projected to decline by 70%. Results highlight the sensitivity of yield projections to the nature of hydroclimatic changes. Where future changes are uncertain, the sign of the yield change simulated by Agro-IBIS is uncertain as well. In contrast, broad agreement in projected drying over southern Australia across models is reflected in consistent yield decreases for the twenty-first century. Climatic changes of the order projected can be expected to pose serious challenges for continued staple grain production in some current centers of production, especially in marginal areas.
Print-Focused Read-Alouds in Early Childhood Special Education Programs
Authors: Justice Laura M. , Logan Jessica A. R. , Kaderavek Joan N. , Dynia Jaclyn M.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this study was to examine the impacts of print-focused read-alouds, implemented by early childhood special education (ECSE) teachers alone or in conjunction with caregivers, on the print knowledge of children with language impairment (LI). Using random assignment to conditions, children with LI were exposed, over an academic year of preschool, to one of three conditions specifying the way in which teachers and caregivers were to read storybooks with them. Based on a print-knowledge composite, children whose teachers used print-focused read-alouds had significantly better print knowledge ( d = .21) in spring of the year compared to children whose teachers used their typical reading practices. When teachers and caregivers implemented print-focused read-alouds simultaneously, children’s Spring print knowledge was modestly higher ( d = .11) than that of children whose teachers and parents used their typical reading practices, but the effect was not statistically significant. Examination of intervention moderators showed that children with lower levels of nonverbal cognition benefited substantially from exposure to the intervention. Educational implications are discussed.
Addressing the Needs of Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kucharczyk Suzanne , Reutebuch Colleen K. , Carter Erik W. , Hedges Susan , El Zein Farah , Fan Hannah , Gustafson Jenny R.
Published: January 2015

The outcomes of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are driving the field to address how secondary education might be optimally designed and delivered. We conducted 28 focus groups across four states to explore the contexts, considerations, and complexities associated with delivering and combining evidence-based interventions to meet the needs of adolescents with ASD from the vantage point of 152 practitioners, parents, and other key stakeholders. Participants emphasized the inadequacy of prevailing intervention approaches in secondary schools, underscored the importance of attending to feasibility and alignment with the diverse needs of students with ASD, and stressed the need for broader awareness and training efforts surrounding autism. We offer recommendations for designing comprehensive interventions and incorporating stakeholder feedback into such undertakings.
Curved fiber paths optimization of a composite cylindrical shell via Kriging-based approach
Authors: Luersen Marco A , Steeves Craig A , Nair Prasanth B
Published: January 2015

While conventional design and manufacturing techniques of fiber-reinforced laminates keep the fiber orientation angle constant within a layer, automated tow-placement technology allows fabricating laminates with curved fibers. This offers more flexibility to tailor the mechanical properties and improve the performance of laminated structures. Exploiting this flexibility requires an efficient method for finding optimal or near-optimal fiber configurations. In this paper, laminated cylindrical shells are studied. Curvilinear variations for the fiber orientations are adopted in the circumferential and longitudinal directions. The computational burden, typical in numerical optimization of complex structures, is reduced using a Kriging model, which substitutes for direct finite element simulation. A sequential quadratic programming algorithm is employed as local optimizer, coupled with a restart strategy to search for the global optimum in the entire design space. Some numerical cases are presented: the maximization of the fundamental frequency of the shell considering different boundary conditions and the minimization of the maximum displacement with a constraint on the buckling load.
Effective properties evaluation for smart composite materials with imperfect fiber–matrix adhesion
Authors: Tita Volnei , de Medeiros Ricardo , Marques Flávio D , Moreno Mariano E
Published: January 2015

A numerical approach is proposed to evaluate the effective properties of piezoelectric fibers embedded in a nonpiezoelectric matrix, considering imperfect contact between fiber and matrix. Firstly, a Representative Volume Element is analyzed via Finite Element Method for different loadings with suitable boundary conditions applied in a unique way. Transversely, isotropic piezoelectric materials with circular and square cross-section fibers are analyzed for square arrangements with different fiber volume fractions as well as with perfect and imperfect contact conditions. The results for circular and square cross-section fibers with perfect contact are compared to the literature data in order to verify the consistency of proposed numerical approach. After that, the results with imperfect contact are discussed, observing the influence of the fiber volume fraction and the level of the imperfection in the fiber–matrix adhesion. Results show that the imperfect contact not only influences the elastic constants, but also the piezoelectric effective values.
Polarization approximations for the macroscopic elastic constants of transversely isotropic multicomponent unidirectional fiber composites
Authors: Tran AB , Pham DC
Published: January 2015

The multicomponent transversely isotropic fiber composites, with unidirectional cylindrical fibers made from different component materials and embedded in a continuous binding matrix, are considered. Hashin–Shtrikman-type polarization trial fields developed earlier by us to bound effective moduli of composites are used to construct polarization approximations for four from the five effective elastic constants of the multicomponent composites, except the longitudinal Young’s modulus, for which the classical volume-weighted-average approximation appears sufficiently accurate and general. The approximations contain certain free parameters. Those parameters can be determined from dilute solutions for circular inclusions, which yield results coincided with Maxwell and Mori–Tanaka approximations in the case, or from the reference effective moduli at some finite volume proportions of the components numerically or experimentally. The simple polarization approximations obey Hashin–Shtrikman bounds over all volume proportions of the components and agree well with numerical results on benchmark models.
A sustainable running criterion for biped balance control
Authors: Yi Yang , Lin Zhiyun , Yan Gangfeng , Tang Chong
Published: January 2015

This paper aims at exploring a novel criterion for sustainable running of biped robots subject to external perturbations. A new notion of running-feasible state is introduced to ensure that a biped can sustain a running motion starting from this state by an allowable control. Then a running-feasible set is estimated by using the orbit energy and the symmetric property of the inverted pendulum model. Based on the developed sustainable running criterion, a non-periodic reference trajectory is generated within a running-feasible set for disturbance rejection in real time and a control law is then designed to track the reference trajectory. In simulation, a five-link, four-actuator biped transits its speed between 2.8 m/s and 4.8 m/s in responding to external disturbances of pushing forward and backward. The simulation results confirm the effectiveness of balance recovery in a running biped, resembling the reaction pattern of a human being.
Law as a source of pluralism?
Authors: Preuß Ulrich K.
Published: January 2015

This article builds upon the distinction between pluralism and plurality, the latter in the sense of variety or diversity. Plurality is an empirical fact, such as the biological diversity of the human species. In contrast, pluralism is a normatively underpinned social pattern according to which the diversity of interests, opinions, values, ideas, etc., of individuals and groups is recognized as a constitutive element of a political order. Pluralism can materialize only if a political order is not based upon the claim of one undisputable truth. An embryonic form of pluralism through law emerged in ancient Greece with the institution of courts in which the parties to a legal dispute could argue over what the law said and hence officially present divergent meanings of justice. For the modern development the separation of law and justice was a major step towards pluralism insofar as the authority of the polity and the binding force of the law were no longer based upon the contention of one exclusive truth – auctoritas, non veritas facit legem. This Hobbesian principle banned religious, moral, philosophical and political discourses to the pre-political domain of privacy and secrecy from which pluralism could not result. Referring to the distinction between regulative and constitutive norms I submit that only the latter, not the former, can function as sources of pluralism.
Current Status of Clinical Trials in Head and Neck Cancer 2014
Authors: Liu Jeffrey C. , Ridge John A. , Brizel David M. , O’Sullivan Brian , Cohen Ezra W. , Mann Bhupinder S. , Adelstein David J.
Published: January 2015

Introduction

The last few years have seen significant increase in the number of available clinical trials in head and neck cancer. It has been difficult to stay abreast of these efforts because multiple cooperative groups and institutions are engaged in their recruitment. This review presents the state of the art of available clinical trials organized around major research themes.

Data Sources

Published literature, published cooperative group monographs, expert review.

Review Methods

Initial themes in head and neck cancer clinical trial development were first identified along with examples. Opinions from an international panel of multidisciplinary experts were then solicited.

Results/Discussion

Current major themes of head and neck clinical trials centered on 5 major themes: (1) recognition of human papillomavirus oropharynx cancer and optimal treatment strategies, (2) defining the role of transoral surgery in head and neck cancer treatment, (3) improving postoperative adjuvant treatment, (4) investigation of rare malignancies, and (5) the importance of biomarker‐driven, innovative, and targeted therapy investigation.

Conclusions

A number of exciting clinical trials are currently in development or accrual with the potential for tremendous impact and improvement of the treatment of head and neck cancer.

Implications for Practice

Awareness by practicing otolaryngologists and trainees of these current themes will be essential for study accrual, success, and improvement in the care of head and neck cancer.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Supplemental Augmentative and Alternative Communication versus Voice Rest Alone after Phonomicrosurgery
Authors: Rousseau Bernard , Gutmann Michelle L. , Mau Theodore , Francis David O. , Johnson Jeffrey P. , Novaleski Carolyn K. , Vinson Kimberly N. , Garrett C. Gaelyn
Published: January 2015

Objective

This randomized trial investigated voice rest and supplemental text‐to‐speech communication versus voice rest alone on visual analog scale measures of communication effectiveness and magnitude of voice use.

Study Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Setting

Multicenter outpatient voice clinics.

Subjects

Thirty‐seven patients undergoing phonomicrosurgery.

Methods

Patients undergoing phonomicrosurgery were randomized to voice rest and supplemental text‐to‐speech communication or voice rest alone. The primary outcome measure was the impact of voice rest on ability to communicate effectively over a 7‐day period. Pre‐ and postoperative magnitude of voice use was also measured as an observational outcome.

Results

Patients randomized to voice rest and supplemental text‐to‐speech communication reported higher median communication effectiveness on each postoperative day compared to those randomized to voice rest alone, with significantly higher median communication effectiveness on postoperative days 3 (P =. 03) and 5 (P =. 01). Magnitude of voice use did not differ on any preoperative (P >. 05) or postoperative day (P >. 05), nor did patients significantly decrease voice use as the surgery date approached (P >. 05). However, there was a significant reduction in median voice use pre‐ to postoperatively across patients (P <. 001) with median voice use ranging from 0 to 3 throughout the postoperative week.

Conclusion

Supplemental text‐to‐speech communication increased patient‐perceived communication effectiveness on postoperative days 3 and 5 over voice rest alone. With the prevalence of smartphones and the widespread use of text messaging, supplemental text‐to‐speech communication may provide an accessible and cost‐effective communication option for patients on vocal restrictions.
Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty
Authors: Randrup Thomas Skov , Ovesen Therese
Published: January 2015

Objective

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of the evidence on balloon Eustachian tuboplasty (BET) as a treatment modality for Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD). We followed the PRISMA guideline and registered with PROSPERO No. CRD42014009461.

Data Sources

We searched 12 databases including PubMed and Embase from January 1, 2010, to April 7, 2014, for studies of BET. Endpoints: change in symptoms, middle ear pathology, eardrum status, Eustachian tube function tests, hearing, adverse events, complications, and health‐related quality of life.

Review Methods

Study quality was assessed using the modified Delphi technique quality appraisal tool for case series studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool for assessing risk of bias.

Results

Nine case series studies with 443 patients (642 tubes) were included. Population size n = 4 (7 tubes) to n = 210 (320 tubes). All studies were of poor quality and featured a high risk of bias. We found reduction of patient symptoms in ETD questionnaire (P <. 001), postoperative normalization of the tympanic membrane, conversion of type B or type C into type A tympanograms, reduced mucosal inflammation, increased number of positive Valsalva test and Swallowing tests, improvement in Eustachian tube score, reduction in Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT)‐22 score (P =. 001), and increased quality of life (P =. 001). No serious adverse events were found.

Conclusion

The evidence of BET is poor and biased. No firm conclusions can be made to identify patients who will benefit from the procedure or to accurately predict surgical results. Randomized controlled trials or case‐control trials are needed.
The Beneficial Role of Multiple Categorization and Intergroup Contact in Reducing Linguistic Out-Group Derogation
Authors: Prati Francesca , Menegatti Michela , Rubini Monica
Published: January 2015

The present research addressed for the first time conditions under which linguistic out-group derogation can be hindered by increasing the qualitative and quantitative complexity of out-group members categorization. An analysis was made of the spontaneous language used to describe counterstereotypic versus stereotypic portrayals of Romanians (Study 1) and multiple versus single categorizations of immigrants (Study 2). Results showed that counterstereotypic and multiple categorization of highly discriminated targets decreased the level of abstraction of negative terms used, thus reducing out-group linguistic derogation. Furthermore, multiple versus single categorization effect on linguistic derogation toward immigrants was mediated by individuation of immigrants and moderated by intergroup contact. The implications of the sociocognitive interventions used and intergroup contact in hindering linguistic out-group derogation are discussed.
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Authors: Marley Maddy
Published: January 2015

An article published in this issue (Rainey M) has introduced the value of using patents as a resource of scientific and technical and competitor information and the growth in free patent websites, highlighting Espacenet and PatentScope in particular. This article provides in-depth information on the most useful search techniques for these sources and includes a relatively new addition to the free patent database suite, that is, Google Patents.
Factors affecting the birth and fund flows of CTAs
Authors: Do Viet , Faff Robert , Lajbcygier Paul , Veeraraghavan Madhu , Tupitsyn Mikhail
Published: January 2015

Our paper investigates the timing of the inception of commodity trading advisors and the relationship between their fund flows and performance. Our results show that commodity trading advisor industry performance has, over the long-run (short-run), a positive (negative) effect on new commodity trading advisors. The functional form of the flow-performance relation varies across commodity trading advisor subcategories. Also, we do not observe a ‘smart money’ effect, indicating that investors are generally unsuccessful in choosing subsequent high-performing commodity trading advisors.
The pricing of idiosyncratic volatility: An Australian study
Authors: Liu Bin , Di Iorio Amalia
Published: January 2015

This study examines the importance of idiosyncratic volatility in asset pricing for Australian stock returns from January 2002 to December 2010. Inspired by work from the early 1990s which found that portfolios constructed to mimic common risk factors explained significant variations in US stock returns, we construct an idiosyncratic volatility mimicking factor to explore the explanatory power of this factor in the Australian stock market. Our results indicate that (a) the idiosyncratic volatility mimicking factor is priced and positively related to the stock returns for the sample period, (b) the explanatory power of the idiosyncratic volatility mimicking factor remains robust in both time-series and cross-sectional analysis, and (c) big size stocks are systematically riskier than small size stocks.
Adults’ Perceptions of Knowledge Construction as Participants in Nonformal World Affairs Programs
Authors: Yelich Biniecki Susan M.
Published: January 2015

The purpose of this interpretive research study was to explore how adult learners perceive they construct knowledge in connection to their participation in nonformal world affairs programs. The study context involved the exploration of 12 adult learners’ perceptions of their knowledge construction as participants in world affairs programs held in an urban setting in the United States including the changing global order, the Katyń massacre, and Russia. The three main themes drawn from the study include the dynamic learning process, influencers of knowledge construction, and individual experiences as connectors in the learning process. These themes broaden an understanding of the continuum of adult learners’ perceived knowledge construction within nonformal education and free-choice learning frameworks, areas that can inform world affairs adult education and program planning.
Comparative study of autonomous path-following vehicle control via model predictive control and linear quadratic control
Authors: Yakub Fitri , Mori Yasuchika
Published: January 2015

This paper describes a comparative study of steering and yaw moment control manoeuvres in the model predictive control and linear quadratic control approaches for path-following control of an autonomous vehicle. We present the effectiveness of the model predictive control and linear quadratic control approaches for stability control of the vehicle’s lateral position and yaw angle for different control manoeuvres: two-wheel steering, four-wheel steering and direct yaw moment control. We then propose model predictive control with a feedforward controller to minimize the tracking errors of the lateral position and the yaw angle in an active front steering manoeuvre, and these are compared with the results from linear quadratic control that has a feedforward controller. Model predictive control is designed on the basis of the simple yaw–lateral motions of a single-track vehicle with a linear tyre model (i.e. a bicycle model), which is an approximation of the more realistic model of a vehicle with double-track yaw–roll motion with a non-linear tyre model (i.e. the Pacejka model). The linear quadratic controller is designed on the basis of the same approach as adopted for the model predictive controller to achieve a fair comparison. On the basis of a given trajectory, we simulate the manoeuvre of the vehicle at a low speed, a middle speed and a high speed because load transfer effects will influence the roll dynamics especially at a high speed. We also perform simulations on low-road-friction surfaces in a double-lane-change scenario with the aim of following the desired trajectory as closely as possible while maintaining the vehicle stability. The simulation results show that model predictive control through two-wheel steering and four-wheel steering with direct yaw moment control performed better in terms of trajectory tracking at a high forward speed and low road surface variation. The proposed model predictive control with a feedforward controller is shown to be effective in minimizing the trajectory tracking errors. For all control manoeuvres, model predictive control gives a better tracking performance than linear quadratic control does. In addition, when the roll dynamics are considered, model predictive control significantly improves the vehicle stability and the trajectory along the desired path.
Self-determination theory: An approach to motivation in music education
Authors: Evans Paul
Published: January 2015

This article provides a conceptual overview of a self-determination theory approach to motivation in music education. Research on motivation in music learning is active and has influenced the field considerably, but it remains theoretically patchy, with a vast array of theoretical perspectives that are relatively disconnected. Reflecting motivation research more generally, music education still lacks a parsimonious, unified theoretical approach to motivation. Self-determination theory offers a way to address this issue, because it is a broad theory of motivation that examines the nature and sources of motivational quality. This article describes two key components of self-determination theory. First, the tendency towards personal growth and a more unified sense of self is supported through the fulfilment of the basic psychological needs of competence, relatedness, and autonomy. Second, behaviour is more enjoyable and contributes more to personal wellbeing when motivation is internalized and more closely aligned with the self. These two features of self-determination theory are related, such that motivation is internalized to the extent that basic psychological needs are fulfilled. These processes are supported by recent self-determination theory research in music education. Previous research on motivation from other theoretical perspectives also lends support to the self-determination theory approach. The approach therefore provides a means of theoretically unifying previous research. An integrated model is presented as the basis for future research on motivation for music learning in the context of psychological wellbeing more broadly.
Soft-bodied amoeba-inspired robot that switches between qualitatively different behaviors with decentralized stiffness control
Authors: Umedachi Takuya , Ito Kentaro , Ishiguro Akio
Published: January 2015

The goal of this research is to understand the underlying mechanism of the behavioral diversity of animals and then use the findings to build truly adaptive robots. Behavioral diversity is an inherent feature of all animals, and it is also important for robots to perform adaptively in unknown and dynamically changing environments. This feature enables animals to select adaptive behavior from among versatile behaviors. However, most designers have avoided or ignored behavioral diversity while constructing artificial systems, with the aim of achieving highly optimized performance in specific environments for given tasks; this leads to vulnerability of these systems to environmental changes. To understand how behavioral diversity can be embedded into artificial systems, we focus on a large amoeba-like unicellular organism, i.e., the plasmodium of true slime mold ( Physarum polycephalum), in this study. Despite the absence of a central nervous system, the plasmodium exhibits various types of locomotion (i.e., exploratory, taxis, and escape behaviors) and switches its behavior depending on the environment. Inspired by this primitive yet intelligent living organism, we build a modular robot that exhibits exploratory and taxis locomotions, and spontaneously switches between them in a fully decentralized manner according to the situation encountered. The results are expected to shed new light on a design scheme for life-like robots that exhibit amazingly versatile and adaptive behaviors.