bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Equality of Intelligences’: Exploring the Barriers to Engagement in Modern and Contemporary Art through a Peer‐to‐Peer Workshop at Tate Modern
Authors: Sayers Esther
Published: December 2014

The data presented in this article explores the effect on pedagogy when inclusion initiatives are bound up with learning objectives. It explores the generation of critical thinking skills in learning programmes at Tate Modern. Effective art education empowers young people to take a critical stance and in gallery education a decision has to be made: are programmes for young people about encouraging them to think about art or inviting them to think? I explore the position and status given to artworks and to young people's interpretations of those works through data gathered during a peer‐led workshop. I illustrate the ways in which new critical voices are able to emerge and contrast them with potential pedagogic pitfalls in which such approaches become exclusive and ultimately work against their emancipatory aims. People who work in galleries and museums are ‘cultivated individuals’. They can easily take for granted their judgements about art and consider them to be ‘natural’. Because of this a disconnection can occur between people who are not acculturated and those who are. The purpose of this study is to shed light on cultural exclusion by exploring dialogue about art produced during a peer‐led workshop.
Artist Teachers Exchange: Reflections on a Collaborative Sketchbook Project for Secondary School Art Teachers
Authors: Brass Elinor , Coles Susan M.
Published: December 2014

This article is an account of a national project established to support secondary school art teachers to re‐engage with their own artistic practice. It draws extensively upon the experiences of the participants and examines the value of teachers making time for their own practical work, both personally and professionally. Beginning in January 2013, 29 teachers participated in a year‐long project as an offshoot of the NSEAD's TEA (Thinking Expression Action) drawing programme. In this project the sketchbook was the vehicle for exchange, with each participant working in two collaborative partnerships. Each month work was posted to a partner and in turn work was made in response and sent back in a creative dialogue. This way of working was established to promote time for creativity and significantly to create a group of artist teachers who could support and challenge each other through their monthly exchanges and by sharing their experiences on an on‐line platform. This article will highlight the impact of these creative collaborations on participants' classroom teaching and considers the benefits of these artist teachers being in the role of a learner, sharing insights and possibilities with their students. It will consider the impact on the learning that occurs in the classroom and argue for the value of prioritising time for making, thinking and sharing.
Electrophysiologic Findings and Long‐Term Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Third or More Catheter Ablation Procedures for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: LIN DAVID , SANTANGELI PASQUALE , ZADO ERICA S. , BALA RUPA , HUTCHINSON MATHEW D. , RILEY MICHAEL P. , FRANKEL DAVID S. , GARCIA FERMIN , DIXIT SANJAY , CALLANS DAVID J. , MARCHLINSKI FRANCIS E.
Published: December 2014

Outcomes After Third or More Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction

Pulmonary vein (PV) status, arrhythmia sources, and outcomes with ≥3 ablation procedures have not been characterized.

Methods and Results

All patients with ≥3 procedures were included and underwent antral reisolation of reconnected PVs and ablation of non‐PV triggers. Of 2,886 patients who underwent PVI, 181 (6%) had more than 2 ablation procedures (3 procedures in 146 and ≥4 procedures in 35). In 12 patients, the clinical arrhythmia was other than AF. Of the remaining 169 patients, 69 (41%) had 4 reconnected PVs, 27 (16%) had 3, 31 (18%) had 2, and 29 (17%) had 1. Only 13 (8%) had all PVs still isolated. Provocative techniques in 127 patients initiated PV triggers in 92 patients, including AF or PV atrial tachycardia in 64 (50%), and reproducible PV APDs in 28 (22%). Thirty‐six (20%) had a new non‐PV trigger targeted. At a mean of 36 months (12–119 months) after last procedure, 63 patients (47%) had no AF off antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD); 28 (21%) had no AF with AAD; and 18 (13%) had rare AF with good symptom control; 26 patients (19%) had recurrent AF.

Conclusions

At time of third or greater AF ablation, PV reconnection is the rule (92%) and PV triggers initiating AF can be demonstrated. Following repeat PVI and targeting non‐PV triggers, 81% of patients had clinical AF control. Our findings suggest that PV reisolation and attempts to identify and eliminate non‐PV triggers are effective and support the role of multiple repeat procedures for AF recurrence.
The Scale and Geography of Collusion in the European Market: A Longitudinal View
Authors: Buch‐Hansen Hubert , Levallois Clement
Published: December 2014

Europe has a long history of cartels, but the changes in the scale and geography of collusion in the European market from the post‐war decades until the present have not been systematically investigated. Using network analysis methods and an original dataset based on decisions in EU cartel cases, this paper maps the developments in detected collusion in the European market from 1958 to 2008 and tentatively explains these developments. It appears that collusive activities increased during the 1960s and after the mid‐1980s and that a long decline in the scale of collusion began in the mid‐1990s. Moreover, the geographical spread of collusive activities in Europe increased considerably from 1969 to 1993. To facilitate an explanation of these and other findings, the paper presents a three‐dimensional analytical framework that emphasises the importance of anti‐cartel regulation, major changes in the business environment and the size of national economies.
Association of birthweight with diabetes and insulin sensitivity or secretion in the Japanese general population
Authors: Oya Junko , Nakagami Tomoko , Kurita Moritoshi , Yamamoto Yayoi , Hasegawa Yukiko , Tanaka Yuki , Endo Yasuhiro , Uchigata Yasuko
Published: December 2014

Aims/Introduction

Low birthweight (birthweight <2,500 g) has been considered to be a risk factor for diabetes in data from Western countries, and its percentage is increasing in Japan. The aim of the present study was to assess the association between birth weight and diabetes, as well as both insulin resistance and secretion.

Materials and Methods

The participants were 847 adults who underwent health check‐ups. The participants were divided by birthweight into four groups (low birthweight and tertiles 1–3 above it). We assessed the effect of birthweight on diabetes using a logistic regression model. Multivariable liner regression analyses were carried out to examine whether birthweight is independently associated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and β‐cell function.

Results

The prevalence of diabetes tended to increase with decreasing birthweight. The adjusted odds ratio for diabetes with low birthweight was 3.52 (1.04–11.96) as compared with the reference category, tertile 2. Univariable linear regression analyses showed that homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance was negatively associated with birthweight, and this association remained after adjusting for age, sex, current body mass index and family history of diabetes. There was no significant association between homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function and birthweight.

Conclusions

Low birthweight was inversely associated with diabetes and insulin resistance in the Japanese general population. Longitudinal data analyses are required to examine the causal relationship between bodyweight and diabetes or insulin resistance in adulthood.
Rapid diversification of sexual signals in HawaiianNesosydneplanthoppers (Hemiptera: Delphacidae): the relative role of neutral and selective forces
Authors: Goodman K. R. , Kelley J. P. , Welter S. C. , Roderick G. K. , Elias D. O.
Published: December 2014

Changes in sexual signals have the potential to promote rapid divergence and reproductive isolation among populations of animals. Thus, identifying processes contributing to variation in signals is key to understanding the drivers of speciation. However, it is difficult to identify the processes initiating changes in signals in empirical systems because (1) the demographic history of populations under study is usually unclear, and (2) there is no unified hypothesis‐testing framework for evaluating the simultaneous contribution of multiple processes. A unique system for study in the Hawaiian Islands, the planthopper speciesNesosydne chambersi, offers a clear demographic context to disentangle these factors. By measuring variation in male vibratory sexual signals across different genetic populations on the island of Hawaii, we found that that multiple signal traits varied significantly between populations. We developed a mixed modelling framework to simultaneously test competing hypotheses about which processes contribute to changes in signal traits: genetic drift, sensory drive or reproductive character displacement. Our findings suggest that signal divergence proceeds along different axes for different signal traits under the influence of both neutral and selective processes. They are the first, to our knowledge, to document the relative importance of multiple processes on divergence in sexual signals.
Australian Liver Association (ALA) expert consensus recommendations for the use of transient elastography in chronic viral hepatitis
Authors: Kemp William , Levy Miriam , Weltman Martin , Lubel John ,   Australian Liver Association (ALA)
Published: December 2014

Since the introduction of Transient Elastography (TE) into Australia in 2008, non‐invasive liver fibrosis assessments have integrated themselves into clinical hepatology. The Australian Liver Association (ALA) recognizes these technologies perform an important role in the assessment of chronic viral hepatitis B and C. However, in the setting of viral hepatitis and many other chronic liver diseases, there remains no consensus or guidelines regarding the performance, utility or reporting of TE. Accordingly, the ALA sought to produce an expert consensus statement for the use of TE in chronic viral hepatitis. The recommendations incorporated in this document are based upon a thorough literature review and draw on extensive clinical experience using TE. The initial draft was presented at Australian Gastroenterology Week (AGW) 2013. Through a collaborative process and expert external review a finalized document was presented at AGW 2014.
Higher Perceived Stress Scale Scores Are Associated with Higher Pain Intensity and Pain Interference Levels in Older Adults
Authors: White Robert S. , Jiang Julie , Hall Charles B. , Katz Mindy J. , Zimmerman Molly E. , Sliwinski Martin , Lipton Richard B.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of bodily pain measures (pain intensity and interference) in elderly people and their relationship with Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) scores.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

Community.

Participants

A representative community sample of 578 individuals aged 70 and older (mean age 78.8, 63% female).

Measurements

The prevalence of pain intensity and pain interference and their relationship with PSS scores, demographic factors, past medical history, and neuropsychological testing scores were examined. Pain intensity and pain interference were measured using the Medical Outcomes Study 36‐item Short‐Form Survey bodily pain questions.

Results

Bivariate analysis for pain measures showed that PSS scores, neuropsychological test scores, and medical histories were associated with pain intensity and interference. Logistic regression showed that higher PSS scores were significantly associated with greater odds of having moderate to severe pain intensity and moderate to severe pain interference (with and without the inclusion of pain intensity in the models).

Conclusion

Higher PSS scores are associated with greater pain intensity and interference. In this cross‐sectional analysis, directionality cannot be determined. Because perceived stress and pain are potentially modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and other poor health outcomes, future research should address temporality and the benefits of treatment.
Cost‐Effectiveness of a Community‐Integrated Home‐Based Depression Intervention in Older African Americans
Authors: Pizzi Laura T. , Jutkowitz Eric , Frick Kevin D. , Suh Dong‐Churl , Prioli Katherine M. , Gitlin Laura N.
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To test the cost‐effectiveness of a home‐based depression program: Beat the Blues (BTB).

Design

A cost‐effectiveness analysis as part of a previously reported randomized controlled trial that compared BTB with a wait‐list control group.

Setting

Community.

Participants

English‐speaking, cognitively intact (Mini‐Mental State Examination score ≥24), African Americans aged 55 and older with depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire score ≥5) (N = 129).

Intervention

Participants randomly assigned to BTB received up to 10 home visits over 4 months from licensed social workers who provided care management, referral and linkage, stress reduction, depression education, and behavioral activation to help participants achieve self‐identified goals.

Measurements

Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios (ICERs) of BTB versus wait‐list controls during the 4‐month study period. The primary ICER was defined as cost per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) using the Euro Quality of Life 5D (EQ‐5D) and secondarily using the Health Utilities Index‐3 (HUI‐3). Additional ICERs were calculated using clinical measures (cost per depression improvement, cost per depression remission). Costs included BTB intervention, depression‐related healthcare visits and medications, caregiver time, and social services.

Results

BTB cost per participant per month was $146. Base case ICERs were $64,896 per QALY (EQ‐5D) and $36,875 per QALY (HUI‐3). Incremental cost was $2,906 per depression improvement and $3,507 per remission. Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses yielded a cost/QALY range of $20,500 to $76,500.

Conclusion

Based on the range of cost‐effectiveness values resulting from this study, BTB is a cost‐effective treatment for managing depressive symptoms in older African Americans that compares favorably with the cost‐effectiveness of previously tested approaches.
Factors Associated with Family Caregiver Dissatisfaction with Acute Hospital Care of Older Cognitively Impaired Relatives
Authors: Whittamore Kathy H. , Goldberg Sarah E. , Bradshaw Lucy E. , Harwood Rowan H. ,   the Medical Crises in Older People Study Group
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To identify patient and caregiver characteristics associated with caregiver dissatisfaction with hospital care of cognitively impaired elderly adults.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial.

Setting

An 1,800‐bed general hospital in England providing the only emergency medical services in its area.

Participants

Cognitively impaired individuals aged 65 and older randomly assigned to a specialist unit or standard geriatric or internal medical wards (N = 600) and related caregivers (N = 488).

Measurements

Patient and caregiver health status was measured at baseline, including delirium, cognitive impairment, behavioral and psychological symptoms, activities of daily living, and caregiver strain. Caregiver satisfaction with quality of care was ascertained after hospital discharge or death.

Results

Four hundred sixty‐two caregivers completed satisfaction questionnaires. Regardless of assignment, 54% of caregivers were dissatisfied with some aspects of care, but overall 87% were satisfied with care. The main areas of dissatisfaction were communication, discharge planning, and medical management. Dissatisfaction was associated with high levels of patient behavioral and psychological symptoms on admission, caregiver strain and poor psychological well‐being at admission, a diagnosis of delirium, and the relationship between the caregiver and the patient. There was less dissatisfaction from caregivers of patients managed on the specialist Medical and Mental Health Unit than those on standard wards, after controlling for multiple factors.

Conclusion

Dissatisfaction was associated with patient behavioral and psychological symptoms and caregiver strain but was not immutable to efforts to improve care.
A Systematic Review of Maternal Confidence for Physiologic Birth: Characteristics of Prenatal Care and Confidence Measurement
Authors: Avery Melissa D. , Saftner Melissa A. , Larson Bridget , Weinfurter Elizabeth V.
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Because a focus on physiologic labor and birth has reemerged in recent years, care providers have the opportunity in the prenatal period to help women increase confidence in their ability to give birth without unnecessary interventions. However, most research has only examined support for women during labor. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine the research literature for information about prenatal care approaches that increase women's confidence for physiologic labor and birth and tools to measure that confidence.

Methods

Studies were reviewed that explored any element of a pregnant woman's interaction with her prenatal care provider that helped build confidence in her ability to labor and give birth. Timing of interaction with pregnant women included during pregnancy, labor and birth, and the postpartum period. In addition, we looked for studies that developed a measure of women's confidence related to labor and birth. Outcome measures included confidence or similar concepts, descriptions of components of prenatal care contributing to maternal confidence for birth, and reliability and validity of tools measuring confidence.

Results

The search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus databases provided a total of 893 citations. After removing duplicates and articles that did not meet inclusion criteria, 6 articles were included in the review. Three relate to women's confidence for labor during the prenatal period, and 3 describe tools to measure women's confidence for birth.

Discussion

Research about enhancing women's confidence for labor and birth was limited to qualitative studies. Results suggest that women desire information during pregnancy and want to use that information to participate in care decisions in a relationship with a trusted provider. Further research is needed to develop interventions to help midwives and physicians enhance women's confidence in their ability to give birth and to develop a tool to measure confidence for use during prenatal care.
Degradation of gamma secretase activating protein by the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway
Authors: Chu Jin , Li Jian‐Guo , Hoffman Nicholas E. , Madesh Muniswamy , Praticò Domenico
Published: December 2014

A major hallmark feature of Alzheimer's disease is the accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ), whose formation is regulated by the γ‐secretase complex and its activating protein (also known as γ‐secretase activating protein, or GSAP). Because GSAP interacts with the γ‐secretase without affecting the cleavage of Notch, it is an ideal target for a viable anti‐Aβ therapy. GSAP derives from a C‐terminal fragment of a larger precursor protein of 98 kDa via a caspase 3‐mediated cleavage. However, the mechanism(s) involved in its degradation remain unknown. In this study, we show that GSAP has a short half‐life of approximately 5 h. Neuronal cells treated with proteasome inhibitors markedly prevented GSAP protein degradation, which was associated with a significant increment in Aβ levels and γ‐secretase cleavage products. In contrast, treatment with calpain blocker and lysosome inhibitors had no effect. In addition, we provide experimental evidence that GSAP is ubiquitinated. Taken together, our findings reveal that GSAP is degraded through the ubiquitin–proteasome system. Modulation of the GSAP degradation pathway may be implemented as a viable target for a safer anti‐Aβ therapeutic approach in Alzheimer's disease.

image

The GSAP derives from a precursor via a caspase 3‐mediated cleavage, is up‐regulated in Alzheimer's disease brains and facilitates Aβ production by interacting directly with the γ‐secretase complex. Here, we demonstrate that GSAP is ubiquitinated and then selectively degraded via the proteasome system but not the calpains or lysosome pathways. These findings provide further evidence for the involvement of the proteasome system in the regulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) precursor protein metabolism and Aβ formation. AICD, APP intracellular domain; APP, amyloid precursor protein; ATP, adenosine triphosphate; CTF‐α, alpha‐C‐terminal fragment; CTF‐β, beta‐C‐terminal fragment; GSAP, γ‐secretase activating protein; Ub, ubiquitin.
Progressive brain metabolic changes under deep brain stimulation of subthalamic nucleus in parkinsonian rats
Authors: Melon Christophe , Chassain Carine , Bielicki Guy , Renou Jean‐Pierre , Kerkerian‐Le Goff Lydia , Salin Pascal , Durif Franck
Published: December 2014

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is an efficient neurosurgical treatment for advanced Parkinson's disease. Non‐invasive metabolic neuroimaging during the course of DBS in animal models may contribute to our understanding of its action mechanisms. Here, DBS was adapted to in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy at 11.7 T in the rat to follow metabolic changes in main basal ganglia structures, the striatum, and the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr). Measurements were repeated OFF and ON acute and subchronic (7 days) STN‐DBS in control and parkinsonian (6‐hydroxydopamine lesion) conditions. Acute DBS reversed the increases in glutamate, glutamine, and GABA levels induced by the dopamine lesion in the striatum but not in the SNr. Subchronic DBS normalized GABA in both the striatum and SNr, and glutamate in the striatum. Taurine levels were markedly decreased under subchronic DBS in the striatum and SNr in both lesioned and unlesioned rats. Microdialysis in the striatum further showed that extracellular taurine was increased. These data reveal that STN‐DBS has duration‐dependent metabolic effects in the basal ganglia, consistent with development of adaptive mechanisms. In addition to counteracting defects induced by the dopamine lesion, prolonged DBS has proper effects independent of the pathological condition.

image

Non‐invasive metabolic neuroimaging might be useful to understand the physiological mechanisms of deep brain stimulation (DBS). Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of repeated high‐field proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy of basal ganglia structures under subthalamic nucleus DBS in control and parkinsonian rats. Results show that DBS has both rapid and delayed effects either dependent or independent of disease state.
Child protection: A 50‐year perspective
Authors: Skellern Catherine Yvette
Published: December 2014

It has been 50 years since Kempe et al. published ‘The Battered Child Syndrome’, describing harm from inflicted injury mechanisms derived from parents and care givers. Since then, there has emerged a rapidly expanding literature on paediatric forensic medicine and child protection, which has offered new insights into injury mechanisms, informed us of the sequelae of abuse and neglect, aided diagnosis and guided clinical practice in the treatment and management of children who become involved in the child protection system. Through the scrutiny of government inquiries and at times uncomfortable media exposure, there have been improvements in child protection and forensic practices resulting in recognition of need for specialised forensic training, improved funding, development of resources and development of professional standards that support accountable, objective, safe and robust practice. From the perspective of an Australian child protection paediatrician, this paper chronicles some of the most significant and at times controversial research in the last 50 years in child protection that have played a key role in shaping our current understanding of child abuse and neglect.
Determinants of child stunting in the Royal Kingdom of Bhutan: an in‐depth analysis of nationally representative data
Authors: Aguayo Victor M. , Badgaiyan Nina , Paintal Kajali
Published: December 2014

Stunting is associated with poor survival and development in children. Our analysis identifies the factors most significantly associated with child stunting in Bhutan using a nationally representative sample of 2085 children 0–23 months old. We find that 27.5% of children were stunted and almost half (42.6%) of the stunted children were severely stunted. Children's mean height‐for‐age z‐score deteriorated significantly with age (from −0.23 in infants 0–5 months old to −1.60 in children 18–23 months old) and levels of severe stunting were significantly higher among boys. Multivariate regression analysis indicates that children from the Eastern/Western regions had a 64% higher odds of being stunted than children from the Central region (OR 1.64; 95% CI 1.29–2.07); similarly, children from the two lower wealth quintiles had 37% higher odds of being stunted than children from the two upper wealth quintiles (OR 1.37; 95% CI 1.00–1.87). Children whose mothers received three or fewer antenatal care visits during the last pregnancy had a 31% higher odds of being stunted (OR 1.31; 95% CI 1.01–1.69) while children whose mothers did not receive antenatal care from a doctor, nurse or midwife had a 51% higher odds of being stunted (OR 1.51; 95% CI 1.18–1.92). Recommended complementary feeding practices tended to be associated with lower odds of stunting, particularly in the first year of life. Specifically, children who were not fed complementary foods at 6–8 months had about threefold higher odds of being severely stunted than children who were fed complementary foods (OR 2.73; 95% CI 1.06–7.02).
Legionella pneumophila utilizes a single‐player disulfide‐bond oxidoreductase system to manage disulfide bond formation and isomerization
Authors: Kpadeh Zegbeh Z. , Day Shandra R. , Mills Brandy W. , Hoffman Paul S.
Published: December 2014

Legionella pneumophila uses a single homodimeric disulfide bond (DSB) oxidoreductase DsbA2 to catalyze extracytoplasmic protein folding and to correct DSB errors through protein‐disulfide isomerase (PDI) activity. In Escherichia coli, these functions are separated to avoid futile cycling. In L. pneumophila, DsbA2 is maintained as a mixture of disulfides (S‐S) and free thiols (SH), but when expressed in E. coli, only the SH form is observed. We provide evidence to suggest that structural differences in DsbB oxidases (LpDsbB1 and LpDsbB2) and DsbD reductases (LpDsbD1 and LpDsbD2) (compared with E. coli) permit bifunctional activities without creating a futile cycle. LpdsbB1 and LpdsbB2 partially complemented an EcdsbB mutant while neither LpdsbD1 nor LpdsbD2 complemented an EcdsbD mutant unless DsbA2 was also expressed. When the dsb genes of E. coli were replaced with those of L. pneumophila, motility was restored and DsbA2 was present as a mixture of redox forms. A dominant‐negative approach to interfere with DsbA2 function in L. pneumophila determined that DSB oxidase activity was necessary for intracellular multiplication and assembly/function of the Dot/Icm Type IVb secretion system. Our studies show that a single‐player system may escape the futile cycle trap by limiting transfer of reducing equivalents from LpDsbDs to DsbA2.
Liberation Theology: A Comparative Study of Christian and Islamic Approaches
Authors: Ciftci Mehmet
Published: December 2014

Research into liberation theologies has rarely had an interreligious perspective. To that end, I shall carry out a comparative study of Christian and Islamic versions of liberation theology and I shall highlight the similarities and differences in their approaches. It will be a thematic study that is structured around three key mentalities which are shared by the approaches of both religious traditions. Firstly, the need to reinterpret their own religions from the perspective of the poor; secondly the interrelated emphases on action, orthopraxy and the agency of the oppressed; and thirdly a rejection of excessive other-worldliness. I conclude from my analyses with the following hypotheses: firstly, due to the lack of an authority akin to the Catholic Church, Islamic liberation theology is comparatively more likely to create the potential for social upheaval and is more likely to lead to an attenuation of metaphysical religious feeling; secondly, all liberation theologies contain latently the potential for creating millenarian outbursts; the best example to offer from modern history of this latent feature becoming manifest is in the Iranian Islamic revolution of 1979.
Multivariate methods to visualise colour‐space and colour discrimination data
Authors: Hastings Gareth D. , Rubin Alan
Published: December 2014

Purpose

Despite most modern colour spaces treating colour as three‐dimensional (3‐D), colour data is usually not visualised in 3‐D (and two‐dimensional (2‐D) projection‐plane segments and multiple 2‐D perspective views are used instead). The objectives of this article are firstly, to introduce a truly 3‐D percept of colour space using stereo‐pairs, secondly to view colour discrimination data using that platform, and thirdly to apply formal statistics and multivariate methods to analyse the data in 3‐D. This is the first demonstration of the software that generated stereo‐pairs of RGB colour space, as well as of a new computerised procedure that investigated colour discrimination by measuring colour just noticeable differences (JND).

Methods

An initial pilot study and thorough investigation of instrument repeatability were performed. Thereafter, to demonstrate the capabilities of the software, five colour‐normal and one colour‐deficient subject were examined using the JND procedure and multivariate methods of data analysis.

Results

Scatter plots of responses were meaningfully examined in 3‐D and were useful in evaluating multivariate normality as well as identifying outliers. The extent and direction of the difference between each JND response and the stimulus colour point was calculated and appreciated in 3‐D. Ellipsoidal surfaces of constant probability density (distribution ellipsoids) were fitted to response data; the volumes of these ellipsoids appeared useful in differentiating the colour‐deficient subject from the colour‐normals. Hypothesis tests of variances and covariances showed many statistically significant differences between the results of the colour‐deficient subject and those of the colour‐normals, while far fewer differences were found when comparing within colour‐normals.

Conclusions

The 3‐D visualisation of colour data using stereo‐pairs, as well as the statistics and multivariate methods of analysis employed, were found to be unique and useful tools in the representation and study of colour. Many additional studies using these methods along with the JND and other procedures have been identified and will be reported in future publications.
Can We Predict the Failure of Electrical Cardioversion of Acute Atrial Fibrillation? The FinCV Study
Authors: GRÖNBERG TONI , HARTIKAINEN JUHA E. K. , NUOTIO ILPO , BIANCARI FAUSTO , VASANKARI TUIJA , NIKKINEN MARKO , YLITALO ANTTI , AIRAKSINEN K. E. JUHANI
Published: December 2014

Background

Data on predictors of failure of electrical cardioversion of acute atrial fibrillation are scarce.

Methods

We explored 6,906 electrical cardioversions of acute (<48 hours) atrial fibrillation in 2,868 patients in a retrospective multicenter study.

Results

The success rate of electrical cardioversion was 94.2%. In 26% of unsuccessful cardioversions, the cardioversion was performed successfully later. Antiarrhythmic drug therapy, short (<12 hours) duration of atrial fibrillation episode, advanced age, permanent pacemaker, history of atrial fibrillation episodes within 30 days before cardioversion, and β‐blockers were independent predictors of unsuccessful electrical cardioversion. In the subgroup of patients with cardioversion of the first atrial fibrillation episode (N = 1,411), the short duration of episode (odds ratio [OR] = 2.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–3.90, P = 0.003) and advanced age (OR = 1.03; 95% CI 1.02–1.05, P < 0.001) were the only independent predictors of unsuccessful cardioversion. After successful cardioversion, the rate of early (<30 days) clinical recurrence of atrial fibrillation was 17.3%. The index cardioversion being performed due to the first atrial fibrillation episode was the only predictor of remaining in the sinus rhythm.

Conclusion

A short (<12 hours) duration of acute atrial fibrillation is a significant predictor of unsuccessful cardioversion, especially during the first attack. First atrial fibrillation episode was the only predictor of remaining in the sinus rhythm.
Agronomic performance and genetic progress of selected historical soybean varieties in the southern USA
Authors: Rogers Justin , Chen Pengyin , Shi Ainong , Zhang Bo , Scaboo Andrew , Smith S. Faye , Zeng Ailan
Published: December 2014

This study was conducted to compare recently developed and historical soybean varieties and evaluate genetic gain in yield and other agronomic traits in the southern USA. A total of 45 southern varieties from public breeding programs, which were released from 1928 to 2008, were used in this study. Three experiments were conducted in 2007 and 2008 at Keiser, Stuttgart, and Marianna in Arkansas (USA). Varieties with maturity groups (MG) late IV to early V had a yield gain of 21.7 kg/ha/yr from the 1950s to the 2000s, mid to late MG V had a yield gain of 16.4 kg/ha/yr from the 1940s to the 2000s, and MG VIs had a yield gain of 12.4 kg/ha/yr from the 1920s to the 2000s. Yield increased linearly for all combined experiments by 16.8 kg/ha/yr. Plant height remained steady over time for most experiments. No significant changes were observed in maturity. Lodging scores decreased, protein concentration decreased, and oil concentration increased linearly over time for all combined experiments. Hutcheson, Narrow, R97‐1634, and Young were recommended as parent lines in future soybean breeding efforts.
A R2R3‐MYB transcription factor that is specifically expressed in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) fibers affects secondary cell wall biosynthesis and deposition in transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Sun Xiang , Gong Si‐Ying , Nie Xiao‐Ying , Li Yang , Li Wen , Huang Geng‐Qing , Li Xue‐Bao
Published: December 2014

Secondary cell wall (SCW) is an important industrial raw material for pulping, papermaking, construction, lumbering, textiles and potentially for biofuel production. The process of SCW thickening of cotton fibers lays down the cellulose that will constitute the bulk (up to 96%) of the fiber at maturity. In this study, a gene encoding a MYB‐domain protein was identified in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and designated as GhMYBL1. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis revealed that GhMYBL1 was specifically expressed in cotton fibers at the stage of secondary wall deposition. Further analysis indicated that this protein is a R2R3‐MYB transcription factor, and is targeted to the cell nucleus. Overexpression of GhMYBL1 in Arabidopsis affected the formation of SCW in the stem xylem of the transgenic plants. The enhanced SCW thickening also occurred in the interfascicular fibers, xylary fibers and vessels of the GhMYBL1‐overexpression transgenic plants. The expression of secondary wall‐associated genes, such as CesA4, CesA7, CesA8, PAL1, F5H and 4CL1, were upregulated, and consequently, cellulose and lignin biosynthesis were enhanced in the GhMYBL1 transgenic plants. These data suggested that GhMYBL1 may participate in modulating the process of secondary wall biosynthesis and deposition of cotton fibers.
The fate of waste inHawaii: Technology assessment and solid waste planning inHawaii, 1968–78
Authors: Howell Jordan P.
Published: December 2014

In this article I consider the initial period of solid waste management planning in theUSstate ofHawaii. The State encountered a number of economic and ecological controversies during its solid waste management planning, a process that was prompted by theUSEnvironmental Protection Agency. Some issues, like project financing, were common across theUS, while others, such as the potential of waste materials to reduce reliance on imported food and materials, were more unique toHawaii. The controversies from this initial planning period were never quite fully resolved; as they lingered, they were interpreted differently across the Islands. Based on a close reading of government, advocacy group, waste industry and news media documents, I examine the controversies over solid waste management of the time and consider how the ‘dual nature’ of waste inHawaii—simultaneously an ecological threat and (potential) economic input—shaped the adoption of solid waste management systems there. This article adds to an expanding literature examining infrastructure in environmental and technology histories.
A retrospective observational study to assess adverse transfusion reactions of patients with and without prior transfusion history
Authors: Kato H. , Nakayama T. , Uruma M. , Okuyama Y. , Handa M. , Tomiyama Y. , Shimodaira S. , Takamoto S.
Published: December 2014

Background and Objectives

This study compares the frequency of adverse transfusion reactions (ATRs) after first transfusions with the frequency of ATRs for subsequent (non‐first) transfusions.

Materials and Methods

Five hospitals agreed to systematically collect and share 2 years of data. This was a retrospective observational analysis of data including the number of transfusion episodes and ATRs for red blood cells (RBCs), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet concentrates (PCs) given to first‐time transfusion recipients and to those previously transfused.

Results

First transfusion ATRs to RBCs, FFP and PCs were 1·08%, 2·84% and 3·34%, respectively. These are higher than ATR incidences to RBCs (0·69%), FFP (1·91%) and PCs (2·75%) on subsequent transfusions. Specifically, first transfusion incidences of febrile non‐haemolytic transfusion reactions (FNHTRs) to RBCs (0·43%) and allergic reactions to FFP (2·51%) were higher than on subsequent transfusions (RBCs: 0·23%, FFP: 1·65%).

Conclusion

There are risks of ATRs on the first transfusion as well as transfusions of patients with transfusion history.
A Quasi 2D Method for the Rotordynamic Analysis of Centered Labyrinth Liquid Seals
Authors: Arghir Mihai , Frene Jean
Published: December 2014

The work presents a method for analyzing the dynamic regime of labyrinth liquid seals. By using the traditional simplifying assumptions for the centered seal (sinusoidal, harmonically varying, first order dynamic perturbation), the approach can be addressed as “quasi” 2D. A numerical coordinate transformation capable to treat displacement perturbations is introduced. The first order mathematical model is then deduced following the same steps as in a previously published work (Arghir et Frêne, 1997b). From this standpoint, the present method can be regarded as an extension of the above mentioned approach which was able to deal only with stator-grooved seals. The method is validated by comparisons with Nordmann and Dietzen’s (1988) theoretical results for a seal with grooves on both stator and rotor and with the experimental results of Staubli’s (1993) test case concerning a general seal.
Development of a Centrifugal Compressor With a Variable Geometry Split-Ring Pipe Diffuser
Authors: Salvage J. W.
Published: December 2014

Higher noise levels resulted when a compressor was scaled to larger capacity. The machine’s sound pressure level was relieved by increasing the distance between the impeller blade tip and diffuser leading edge. However, the part-load surge line deteriorated severely as a consequence. A variable geometry pipe diffuser solved this problem, permitting operation at stringent off-design conditions. The addition of a variable diffuser permits compressor selection very near its most efficient full-load operating point, without regard for limitations normally imposed by part-load requirements.

The principal lessons learned during aerodynamic design refinement include (a) how performance and surge depend upon positioning the variable inlet guide vanes and variable diffuser, and (b) how to define simultaneous variation of inlet guide vanes and diffuser for specific operational objectives. Generally, each operating point requires a unique setting of the variable components to achieve maximum efficiency. However, linked movement is shown to yield both a satisfactory surge line and improved performance for most applications when compared to a compressor without the variable geometry pipe diffuser.
The Influence of Shrouded Stator Cavity Flows on Multistage Compressor Performance
Authors: Wellborn Steven R. , Okiishi Theodore H.
Published: December 2014

Experiments were performed on a low-speed multistage axial-flow compressor to assess the effects shrouded stator cavity flows on aerodynamic performance. Five configurations, which involved systematic changes in seal-tooth leakage rates and/or elimination of the shrouded stator cavities, were tested. Rig data indicate increasing seal-tooth leakage substantially degraded compressor performance. For every 1% increase in seal-tooth clearance-to-span ratio the decrease in pressure rise was 3% and the reduction in efficiency was 1 point. These observed performance penalties are comparable to those commonly reported for rotor and cantilevered stator tip clearance variations. The performance degradation observed with increased leakage was brought about in two distinct ways. First, increasing seal-tooth leakage directly spoiled the near hub performance of the stator row in which leakage occurred. Second, the altered stator exit flow conditions, caused by increased leakage, impaired the performance of the next downstream stage by decreasing the work input of the rotor and increasing total pressure loss of the stator. These trends caused the performance of downstream stages to progressively deteriorate. Numerical simulations of the test rig stator flow field were also conducted to help resolve important fluid mechanic details associated with the interaction between the primary and cavity flows. Simulation results show that fluid originating in the upstream cavity collected on the stator suction surface when the cavity tangential momentum was low and on the pressure side when it was high. The convection of cavity fluid to the suction surface was a mechanism which reduced stator performance when leakage increased.
Qualitative Characterization of Anti-Swirl Gas Dampers
Authors: Zirkelback Nicole L.
Published: December 2014

Anti-swirl gas dampers have applications in high-temperature turbomachinery. Nozzles comprising the circumference of the damper inject air against the direction of shaft rotation, providing a force tangential to the rotor surface that acts to damp rotor vibration. The present work involves prediction of experiments by using direct damping and cross-coupled stiffness coefficients given in Vance and Handy (1997) that characterize the rotordynamic performance of an anti-swirl damper. Direct stiffness added at the damper location is vital to representing the changes in critical speeds and the onset and cease of backward whirl given in the experiments. This direct stiffness arises due to the release of air axially across the annulus of the damper. With the addition of this significant direct stiffness, experimental results compare well with the present rotordynamic model. Predictions using the experimentally obtained damping coefficients adequately reproduce the reduction in vibration amplitudes at the critical speeds. However, applying the cross-coupled stiffness coefficients in predictions fails to show increases in the speed at which backward whirl begins and does not reproduce the wrecking instability experienced in the tests. A further study investigates the magnitude of the cross-coupled stiffness coefficient necessary to cause instability in the rotor-damper system.
Experimental Rotordynamic Characterization of Annular Seals: Facility and Methodology
Authors: Darden J. Mark , Earhart Eric M. , Flowers George T.
Published: December 2014

Annular seals are known to enhance rotordynamic stability margins and minimize vibration response levels in high-speed rotating machinery. Theoretical predictions for the rotordynamic characteristics of annular seals exist but additional experimental data is needed to properly anchor these results. NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has developed an annular seal test rig and facility to experimentally characterize axially-fed annular seals. The objective of MSFC’s annular seal test rig is to obtain the rotordynamic coefficients (direct and cross-coupled stiffness, damping, and added mass) for a variety of high Reynolds number annular seals. The MSFC test rig supports centered-seal testing with inlet pressures up to 138 bars (2000 psi) and flow rates of over 946 liters per minute (250 gpm). The rig’s shaft is powered by a 186 kilowatt (250 horsepower) steam turbine capable of rotational speeds of over 20,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). A description of the identification process used to obtain rotordynamic coefficients is given as well as procedures for ensuring quality data. Experimental results for a smooth annular seal with an L/D = 0.5 is presented. Excellent agreement between experimental and theoretical results is obtained.