bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of relational coordination among colleagues and span of control on work engagement among home‐visiting nurses
Authors: Naruse Takashi , Sakai Mahiro , Nagata Satoko
Published: January 2016

Aim

Home‐visiting nursing agencies are required to foster staff nurse's work engagement; thus, the factors related to work engagement require identification. This study examined relational coordination among colleagues and agency span of control on the work engagement of home‐visiting nurses.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from 93 staff nurses in 31 home‐visiting nursing agencies were collected via a survey and analyzed using mixed linear regression.

Results

There was no significant main effect of relational coordination among nurse colleagues on work engagement. In large agencies with a large span of control, relational coordination among nursing colleagues predicted work engagement. Nursing managers' relational coordination was found to be positively associated with staff nurse work engagement.

Conclusion

Agency span of control is a moderating factor on the positive effect of relational coordination with nursing colleagues on staff nurse work engagement.
Lived experience of Indonesian nurses in Japan: A phenomenological study
Authors: Efendi Ferry , Chen Ching‐Min , Nursalam Nursalam , Indarwati Retno , Ulfiana Elida
Published: January 2016

Aim

The movement of Indonesian nurses via a bilateral agreement with Japan has led to a substantial number of migrants to work as nurses in that nation's healthcare system. The purpose of this research was to develop a deeper understanding of the meaningful experiences of Indonesian nurses while working in Japanese hospitals.

Methods

In this phenomenological study, sampling was purposive and was based on information shared by five Indonesian nurses. The data were collected in interviews; the analysis was thematic.

Results

Six key themes were identified: (i) seeking better than before; (ii) communication challenges; (iii) the nursing examination as a culmination; (iv) differences in nursing practice; (v) cultural differences; and (vi) the benefits of living in developed country. Among these challenges, communication as the basis of shared meaning and understanding was viewed as a complex issue, by both patients and coworkers.

Conclusion

The results of this study call for further intervention in supporting Indonesian nurses living in Japan in their struggle with the issue of communication. The emphasis on language acquisition for personal and professional objectives, and the bridging of cultural differences as well, should be considered in an international context.
Difference in the impact of homebound status on functional decline between independent older men and women: A 2 year follow‐up study
Authors: Hamazaki Yuko , Morikawa Yuko , Morimoto Shigeto , Nakagawa Hideaki
Published: January 2016

Aim

To investigate the association between homebound status and functional decline over a 2 year follow‐up period and the sex difference in its association.

Methods

The study subjects were 2956 independently living older individuals (1267 men, 1679 women). Homebound persons were defined as individuals who left home less than once a week. Subjects judged to be eligible for a support program or long‐term care by the committee of the long‐term care insurance system were considered functionally dependent. Using a Cox proportional hazard model, the present authors evaluated the association between homebound status and onset of functional dependence.

Results

Of the 2946 subjects, 223 (7.6%) were homebound. During the follow‐up period, 153 subjects became functionally dependent. Adjusting for age and household type, the hazard ratio (HR) for onset of functional dependence in the homebound group (compared with the non‐homebound group) was 5.46 (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.00–9.94) for men and 2.62 (95% CI, 1.66–4.14) for women. After adjustment for locomotor function, cognitive function, depressive state, age, and household type, the HR for onset of functional dependence in association with homebound status remained significantly increased in men (HR, 3.12 [95% CI, 1.59–6.10]), but not in women (HR, 1.43 [95% CI, 0.87–2.35]).

Conclusion

This study suggests that homebound status is a risk for functional dependence in both men and women. In men, being homebound despite intact functional ability was also a risk for functional dependence. Considering the respective characteristics of each sex may be important for planning support programs to prevent homebound for older persons.
Effectiveness of the training material in drug‐dose calculation skills
Authors: Basak Tulay , Aslan Ozlem , Unver Vesile , Yildiz Dilek
Published: January 2016

Aim

The aim of study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the training material based on low‐level environmental fidelity simulation in drug‐dose calculation skills in senior nursing students.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental design with one group. The sample included senior nursing students attending a nursing school in Turkey in the period December 2012–January 2013. Eighty‐two senior nursing students were included in the sample. Data were obtained using a data collection form which was developed by the researchers. A paired‐sample t‐test was used to compare the pretest and post‐test scores.

Results

The difference between the mean pretest score and the mean post‐test score was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study revealed that the training material based on low‐level environmental fidelity simulation positively impacted accurate drug‐dose calculation skills in senior nursing students.
Health‐related quality of life and psychological well‐being in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia: An integrative review
Authors: Pinto Julian Dong Oh , He Hong‐Gu , Chan Sally Wai Chi , Wang Wenru
Published: January 2016

Aim

This integrative review aims to summarize the evidence regarding the health‐related quality of life, psychological well‐being, and the relevant influencing factors in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Methods

An integrative published work review was adopted. Articles published in English from 2002 to 2014 that addressed the variables of health‐related quality of life, psychological well‐being, or the relevant influencing factors in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia were included.

Results

Of the 4708 articles retrieved, 16 were deemed relevant. Analysis of the published work suggests that benign prostatic hyperplasia has a negative impact on health‐related quality of life, citing two major predictive factors: lower urinary tract symptoms and medical management. The psychological well‐being of men with benign prostatic hyperplasia remains inconclusive as very limited studies have been conducted to investigate this aspect in these men. Limited studies collectively investigate the relationship among concepts such as health‐related quality of life, psychological well‐being, and sociodemographic and clinical factors related to benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Conclusion

This review highlights the need to conduct further study on health‐related quality of life and the psychological well‐being of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, especially in an Asian context. Such efforts promote patient‐centric care and improve patient satisfaction through incorporating the concept of health‐related quality of life into clinical practices.
The Social‐Cognitive Underpinnings of Employees’ Ambidextrous Behaviour and the Supportive Role of Group Managers’ Leadership
Authors: Kauppila Olli‐Pekka , Tempelaar Michiel P.
Published: January 2016

Although research on organizational ambidexterity has exploded in the past several years, the determinants of individual‐level ambidexterity have received little scholarly attention. This is surprising given that management scholars increasingly highlight the benefits of combining explorative and exploitative activities in individual employees’ work roles. Using data collected by a two‐wave survey of 638 employees nested in 173 groups across 34 organizations, our research demonstrates that both psychological factors and leadership predict employees’ ambidextrous behaviour. Our results demonstrate that general self‐efficacy positively predicts ambidextrous behaviour through learning orientation. In addition, we show that employees exhibit higher ambidexterity when their group managers demonstrate paradoxical leadership; that is, a leadership style that couples strong managerial support with high performance expectations. Paradoxical leadership also moderates the relationship between learning orientation and individual ambidexterity such that employees’ ambidextrous behaviour is highest when paradoxical leadership and employee learning orientation are simultaneously at high levels.
Regional Cerebral Gray Matter Volume in HIV‐Positive Patients with Executive Function Deficits
Authors: Corrêa Diogo Goulart , Zimmermann Nicolle , Netto Tania Maria , Tukamoto Gustavo , Ventura Nina , de Castro Bellini Leite Sarah , Cabral Rafael Ferracini , Fonseca Rochele Paz , Bahia Paulo Roberto Valle , Gasparetto Emerson Leandro
Published: January 2016

PURPOSE

To evaluate whether human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive patients with and without executive functions deficits and healthy control subjects differ on cortical thickness and subcortical brain structures volume in vivo.

METHODS

In total, 34 HIV‐positive patients with executive functions deficits were compared with 13 HIV‐positive patients without executive functions deficits and 19 gender‐, age‐, and education‐matched control subjects. Executive functions impairments were classified by performance on the Wisconsin card sorting test. T1 3‐dimensional magnetization prepared rapid gradient echo‐weighted imaging was performed using a 1.5 Tesla (magnetic resonance) MR scanner. FreeSurfer software was used to perform cortical reconstruction and volumetric segmentation of subcortical gray matter structures.

RESULTS

HIV‐positive patients with executive functions deficits had smaller volumes in the right and left caudate compared with the HIV‐positive patients without executive functions deficits and control groups. In addition, HIV‐positive patients with executive functions deficits had smaller volumes in their left accumbens, right putamen, and globus pallidum compared with the control group. No significant differences in cortical thickness were observed between the groups.

CONCLUSION

HIV‐positive patients with executive functions deficits have reduced volumes of several subcortical structures, primarily in the caudate nucleus.
Transcranial Sonography Findings in Depression in Association With Psychiatric and Neurologic Diseases: A Review
Authors: Krogias Christos , Walter Uwe
Published: January 2016

The transcranial sonography (TCS) finding of reduced echogenicity of brainstem raphe (hypoechogenic BR) has been associated with depressive states. Here, we review the TCS studies in subjects with depressive disorders and with depression related to degenerative brain diseases, and compare the frequency and clinical correlates of hypoechogenic BR in these reports. Summarizing the data published so far, hypoechogenic BR is present in 67% (range, 37‐95%) of depressed but only in 15% (5‐36%) of nondepressed subjects without history of neurodegenerative disease. The finding of hypoechogenic BR in these subjects is associated with a relative risk of 3.03 (95% CI, 2.44‐3.75; P < .001) of being diagnosed with depression. In patients with Parkinson's disease, hypoechogenic BR is present in 63% (35‐92%) of depressed but only in 27% (10‐62%) of nondepressed patients, resulting in a relative risk of 2.18 (95% CI, 1.80‐2.66; P < .001) of being diagnosed with depression. Hypoechogenic BR is associated with depression in a number of neurological disorders such Huntington's disease, idiopathic Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder, myotonic dystrophies, and cerebral small vessel disease. Although some studies did not show any relationship between BR echogenicity and severity of depression, others suggest an association with higher severity of depression, or even with suicidal ideation. In one study BR hypoechogenicity was found to be associated with better responsivity to serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Further studies are warranted to compare the TCS findings of BR alteration with post‐mortem histopathological findings, and with genetic variants related to cerebral serotonin metabolism.
Alpha‐wave frequency characteristics in health and insomnia during sleep
Authors: Schwabedal Justus T. C. , Riedl Maik , Penzel Thomas , Wessel Niels
Published: January 2016

Appearances of alpha waves in the sleep electrencephalogram indicate physiological, brief states of awakening that lie in between wakefulness and sleep. These microstates may also cause the loss in sleep quality experienced by individuals suffering from insomnia. To distinguish such pathological awakenings from physiological ones, differences in alpha‐wave characteristics between transient awakening and wakefulness observed before the onset of sleep were studied. In polysomnographic datasets of sleep‐healthy participants (n = 18) and patients with insomnia (n = 10), alpha waves were extracted from the relaxed, wake state before sleep onset, wake after sleep‐onset periods and arousals of sleep. In these, alpha frequency and variability were determined as the median and standard deviation of inverse peak‐to‐peak intervals. Before sleep onset, patients with insomnia showed a decreased alpha variability compared with healthy participants (P < 0.05). After sleep onset, both groups showed patterns of decreased alpha frequency that was lower for wake after sleep‐onset periods of shorter duration. For patients with insomnia, alpha variability increased for short wake after sleep‐onset periods. Major differences between the two groups were encountered during arousal. In particular, the alpha frequency in patients with insomnia rebounded to wake levels, while the frequency in healthy participants remained at the reduced level of short wake after sleep‐onset periods. Reductions in alpha frequency during wake after sleep‐onset periods may be related to the microstate between sleep and wakefulness that was described for such brief awakenings. Reduced alpha variability before sleep may indicate a dysfunction of the alpha generation mechanism in insomnia. Alpha characteristics may also prove valuable in the study of other sleep and attention disorders.
Short persistent sleep duration is associated with poor receptive vocabulary performance in middle childhood
Authors: Seegers Valerie , Touchette Evelyne , Dionne Ginette , Petit Dominique , Seguin Jean R. , Montplaisir Jacques , Vitaro Frank , Falissard Bruno , Boivin Michel , Tremblay Richard E.
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to examine whether short sleep duration is associated with poor receptive vocabulary at age 10 years. In the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, parents reported their children's nocturnal sleep duration annually from ages 2.5 to 10 years, and children were assessed for receptive vocabulary using the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test—Revised (PPVT‐R) at ages 4 and 10 years. Groups with distinct nocturnal sleep duration trajectories were identified and the relationships between sleep trajectories and poor PPVT‐R performance were characterized. In all, 1192 children with available sleep duration and PPVT‐R data participated in this epidemiological study. We identified four longitudinal nocturnal sleep trajectories: short persistent sleepers (n = 72, 6.0%), short increasing sleepers (n = 47, 3.9%), 10‐h sleepers (n = 628, 52.7%) and 11‐h sleepers (n = 445, 37.3%). In all, 14.8% of the children showed poor PPVT‐R performance at age 10 years. Nocturnal sleep trajectories and poor PPVT‐R performance at age 10 were associated significantly (P = 0.003). After adjusting for baseline receptive vocabulary performance at age 4 and other potential confounding variables, logistic regression analyses suggest that, compared to 11‐h sleepers, the odds ratio of presenting poor receptive vocabulary at age 10 was 2.67 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.24–5.74, P = 0.012] for short persistent sleepers and 1.66 (95% CI: 1.06–2.59, P = 0.026) for 10‐h sleepers. These results corroborate previous findings in early childhood, and indicate that short sleep duration is associated with poor receptive vocabulary during middle childhood.
Treatment of hepatitis C virus genotype 1–infected patients: mission accomplished?
Authors: Puoti Massimo , Rossotti Roberto , Baiguera Chiara , Orso Maurizio
Published: January 2016

See Article on Page 189
Spirituality and Virtue in Christian Formation: A Conversation between Thomistic and Ignatian Traditions
Authors: Austin Nicholas
Published: January 2016

This paper reflects on Christian formation, the growth of the disciple into the image of Christ, from two traditions, the Thomistic and Ignatian. The Thomistic tradition offers a rich theological theory of virtue, but seems to require a more convincing narrative of how ‘infused’ virtue develops in the Christian life. The Ignatian tradition offers a more experiential spirituality, but today needs to explain how spiritual experience can be lived out. It is argued that the two traditions can be seen as mutually complementary, and that, by understanding the relation of virtue to the practice of spiritual discernment, a fuller account of Christian formation is possible.
Holiness as Priesthood
Authors: Ryan Fáinche
Published: January 2016

‘Who are we?’ as Christian believers, as Church, is a question that each generation of Christians, collectively and as individuals, is impelled to ask. Vatican II's teaching on the universal call to holiness marks a significant step in our journey toward addressing this question. This paper focuses on the call to holiness as deeply rooted in a sharing in the priestly ministry of Christ. The core of the paper is an exploration of the radical and unique nature of the priesthood of Christ. The paper continues by exploring the significance of the universal call to holiness as priesthood in the light of the unique nature of Christ's priesthood. The paper claims that the priesthood into which we are all baptised is at once Chrisological and ecclesiological, and suggests that, in the light of this theological reading, new answers may then arise in regard to the ever-urgent questions of Church order.
“The Return of the Soul”: Psychology, Theology and Soul-Making
Authors: Tyler Peter
Published: January 2016

Psychologists have recently once again started using “soul-language” in their anthropological investigations. This paper will explore some of the attempts to “re-soul” psychology over the past few decades, especially in the work of Bruno Bettleheim, Otto Rank and James Hillman. Having explored the strengths and weaknesses of these positions the paper ends with an account of the self taken from the work of St Teresa Benedicta a Cruce (Edith Stein) which, it argues, enables the Christian Trinitarian perspective to resolve tensions inherent in the other psychological models.
Changes in physical activity behaviour and physical function after bariatric surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Herring L. Y. , Stevinson C. , Davies M. J. , Biddle S. JH. , Sutton C. , Bowrey D. , Carter P.
Published: January 2016

Although physical activity performed after bariatric surgery is associated with enhanced weight loss outcomes, there is limited information on patients' physical activity behaviour in this context. This systematic review and meta‐analysis assessed pre‐operative to post‐operative changes in physical activity and physical function outcomes among obese adults undergoing bariatric surgery. A total of 50 studies met inclusion criteria with 26 papers reporting data for meta‐analysis. Increases in both objectively recorded and self‐reported physical activity at 12 months were demonstrated. Studies indicated that there was a shift towards a greater amount of active time, but of a lower intensity within the first 6 months of bariatric surgery, suggested by a reduction in moderate to vigorous physical activity but an increase in step count. A standardized mean difference (SMD) of 1.53 (95% CI: 1.02–2.04) based on nine studies indicated improved walking performance at 12 months. Similarly, analysis of five studies demonstrated increased musculoskeletal function at 3–6 months (SMD: 1.51; 95% CI: 0.60–2.42). No relationship was identified between changes in weight and walking performance post‐surgery. More studies assessing physical activity, physical function and weight loss would help understand the role of physical activity in optimizing post‐operative weight and functional outcomes.
The Role of Cultural Beliefs in Accessing Antenatal care in Malawi: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Roberts Joni , Hopp Marshak Helen , Sealy Diadrey‐Anne , Manda‐Taylor Lucinda , Mataya Ron , Gleason Peter
Published: January 2016

Background

The World Health Organization in 2002 recommended a focused antenatal care model of four visits for women in low‐income countries. Despite the high percentage of mothers (95%) who see a skilled attendant and the adaptation of the recommended antenatal model, only 46% of Malawian mothers meet the recommendation. The purpose of this study was to identify the cultural beliefs that influence women's antenatal care or pregnancy‐related health care decisions.

Methods

Twenty pregnant mothers and eight health workers from two urban tertiary care hospitals in Malawi were recruited to participate in a qualitative study assessing barriers to antenatal care. Data were collected between September and December 2014 through face‐face, audio‐recorded interviews, and a demographic survey.

Results

Identified maternal cultural beliefs included: seeking advice from village elders, spousal fidelity, and disclosing pregnancy. Health workers mentioned that providers often held the same cultural beliefs and, therefore, turned women away if they tried to go against cultural norms.

Conclusions

Cultural beliefs play an integral role in the decision‐making process of antenatal care. Specifically, the belief and practice of when to disclose pregnancy prohibits women from seeking antenatal care in the first trimester.
Persistent complex bereavement disorder: clinical utility and classification of the category proposed forDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition
Authors: Shimizu Kanako , Kikuchi Senichiro , Kobayashi Toshiyuki , Kato Satoshi
Published: January 2016

Aim

Persistent complex bereavement disorder (PCBD) was proposed as a bereavement‐related clinical category in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, which included the disorder among conditions for further study. This is an independent clinical category in which intense yearning for the deceased continues for at least 12 months. However, the diagnostic features are still inconclusive. We suggest a variation of PCBD for making category from our clinical experiences.

Method

We presented two representative case studies in which grief caused by bereavement was observed as the root of the pathological condition. We examined the disorder's pathological conditions, diagnoses, and appropriate treatments based on the cases we experienced.

Results

Both cases involved elderly women who lost their spouse through illness and experienced prolonged grief for an extended period, resulting in hospital admission. Based on the two cases, we believe that PCBD can also include a psychotic type with hallucinations as a major symptom. While studying PCBD, we took into account specific cultural characteristics of Japanese people and their present day social environment.

Conclusions

Such cases would be suggestive when determining the PCBD clinical category in the future. PCBD is considered to be clinically very useful, especially in an extremely aged society as seen in developed countries, including Japan.
Parenting styles and trait emotional intelligence in adolescence
Authors: Argyriou Evangelia , Bakoyannis Giorgos , Tantaros Spyridon
Published: January 2016

The existence of individual differences in trait emotional intelligence (trait EI) makes the investigation of factors that contribute to such variations critical. Given the paucity of research in this area, the purpose of this study was the examination of the relationship between parenting styles and trait EI in an adolescent population. The sample of our study consisted of 127 adolescents (M age = 16.4, SD = 0.96; 42.2% female) from Greek schools, 15–19 years old, who were asked to complete questionnaires of perceived parenting (Parental Authority Questionnaire – PAQ) and trait EI (Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire–Adolescent Short Form – TEIQue–ASF). The estimation of the association between parenting scores and trait EI was based on a multivariable mixed‐effects regression model. An association between parenting styles and trait EI, statistically significant for authoritativeness (b = 0.27, z = 3.92, p < 0.001) and marginally significant for authoritarianism (b = –0.10, z = –1.77, p = 0.08), emerged even after controlling for a set of potential predictors of trait EI. Additionally, statistically significant associations of adolescents’ gender (b = –0.29, z = –2.37, p = 0.02) and parental education (b = 0.32, z = 2.54, p = 0.01) with trait EI were found. These findings provide insight in the field of trait EI antecedents and underline the potential significance of primary prevention programs with parents that aim to develop trait EI at a young age.
Posaconazole in lung transplant recipients: use, tolerability, and efficacy
Authors: Robinson C.L. , Chau C. , Yerkovich S.T. , Azzopardi M. , Hopkins P. , Chambers D.
Published: January 2016

Background

Fungal infection is a common cause of mortality and morbidity in lung transplant recipients (LuTR). Treatment failure to first‐line antifungals because of resistance or intolerance is an increasing problem. Posaconazole (PCZ), a triazole antifungal, is an attractive treatment option.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective study to describe the use, tolerability, efficacy, and drug interaction effect (with tacrolimus) of PCZ oral suspension in LuTR.

Results

Seventy‐eight patients were treated with PCZ oral suspension for prophylaxis (n = 15), pre‐emptive treatment (n = 31), and treatment of possible (n = 7) and probable (n = 25) invasive fungal infection. A range of fungal isolates was encountered. Resolution was observed in 52.4% (probable, possible, and pre‐emptive treatment groups). Aggregate all‐cause 1‐year mortality was 12.8%. PCZ was well tolerated with 11.5% of patients experiencing adverse effects. Despite dose adjustment strategies, 11.7% of patients experienced supratherapeutic tacrolimus levels, which in 5 cases was associated with a rise (mean 21.6 μmol/L) in serum creatinine.

Conclusions

PCZ is well tolerated and appears effective in the management of fungal infection after lung transplantation. Patients receiving concurrent tacrolimus require careful therapeutic drug monitoring.
Prognostic impact of neoadjuvant aglepristone treatment in clinicopathological parameters of progesterone receptor‐positive canine mammary carcinomas
Authors: Guil‐Luna S. , Millán Y. , De Andres J. , Rollón E. , Domingo V. , García‐Macías J. , Sánchez‐Céspedes R. , Martín de las Mulas J.
Published: January 2016

Neoadjuvant treatment of canine mammary carcinomas with the progesterone receptor (PR) antagonist aglepristone has a PR expression‐related inhibiting effect on proliferation index (PI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the treatment in the disease‐free period (DFP) and overall survival (OS) of canine mammary carcinomas. Fifty female dogs with mammary carcinomas were treated with aglepristone (n = 34) or oil vehicle (n = 16) before surgery (day 15). PR expression and PI were analysed by immunohistochemistry in samples taken at days 1 and 15. Epidemiological and clinicopathological data were assessed. DFP and OS data were retrieved every 4–6 months for at least 24 months after surgery. Aglepristone treatment increased DFP of animals bearing PR+ tumours with size smaller than 3 cm, complex and mixed tumours, with histologic grades I and II, and with PI ≤ 10%. Although further studies are necessary, current evidence points to treatment with aglepristone as useful for the management of canine mammary tumours.
DNA damage is a feature of feline injection‐site sarcoma
Authors: Kang S. , Southard T. , Hume K. R.
Published: January 2016

Feline injection‐site sarcoma (FISS) is commonly treated with surgery and radiation therapy. Despite aggressive therapy, FISS has a high recurrence rate. The true benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy is not known. DNA damage response mechanisms help protect against genomic instability but can also promote chemoresistance. In order to determine whether DNA damage is a feature of FISS, we evaluated tumour tissues with γH2AX immunohistochemistry. H2AX is phosphorylated to form γH2AX following DNA double strand breaks. Seventeen FISS specimens were evaluated prospectively. DNA damage ranged from 2.18 to33.7%, with a median of 16.2%. Significant differences were noted between cats (P < 0.0001). Mitotic index ranged from 0 to 57 with a median of 13 and did not correlate with γH2AX positivity (P = 0.2). Further studies are needed to determine if γH2AX expression may predict chemosensitivity and have independent value as a prognostic factor.
Extending the Reach of a Rod Injected Into a Cylinder Through Axial Rotation
Authors: Mulcahy Connor G. , Su Tianxiang , Wicks Nathan , Reis Pedro M.
Published: January 2016

We investigate continuous axial rotation as a mechanism for extending the reach of an elastic rod injected into a horizontal cylindrical constraint, prior to the onset of helical buckling. Our approach focuses on the development of precision desktop experiments to allow for a systematic investigation of three parameters that affect helical buckling: rod rotation speed, rod injection speed, and cylindrical constraint diameter. Within the parameter region explored, we found that the presence of axial rotation increases horizontal reach by as much as a factor of 5, when compared to the nonrotating case. In addition, we develop an experimentally validated theory that takes into account anisotropic friction and torsional effects. Our theoretical predictions are found to be in good agreement with experiments, and our results demonstrate the benefits of using axial rotation for extending reach of a rod injected into a constraining pipe.
A Terminal Sliding Mode Control of Disturbed Nonlinear Second-Order Dynamical Systems
Authors: Skruch Pawel
Published: January 2016

The paper presents a terminal sliding mode controller for a certain class of disturbed nonlinear dynamical systems. The class of such systems is described by nonlinear second-order differential equations with an unknown and bounded disturbance. A sliding surface is defined by the system state and the desired trajectory. The control law is designed to force the trajectory of the system from any initial condition to the sliding surface within a finite time. The trajectory of the system after reaching the sliding surface remains on it. A computer simulation is included as an example to verify the approach and to demonstrate its effectiveness.
Filament Wound Composite Pressure Vessels and Pipes Subject to an Internal Pressure: An Experimental and Material Characterization Study
Authors: Ellul Brian , Camilleri Duncan , Grech Jana , Muscat Martin
Published: January 2016

This study presents an experimental testing regime conducted on filament wound composite pressure vessels (CPVs) made up of an asymmetric and unbalanced layup (chopped strand mat (CSM)/−82.7 deg/±54.3 deg) and subject to an internal pressure. Polyester reinforced with e-glass CSM and direct roving was used. The mechanical properties of the different lamina used in the test specimens were identified through a series of standardized tests. The evolution of strain and volume changes with respect to the applied pressure loading were recorded. The results also present a characterization of identifiable first-ply failure (FPF) loads based on strain evolution and volume changes, and monitors when ultimate failure occurs.
Selecting Kinematic Structures of Parallel Manipulators Using Symmetry and Connectivity
Authors: Simoni Roberto , Simas Henrique , Martins Daniel
Published: January 2016

This paper presents an application of symmetry and connectivity to select kinematic structures of parallel manipulators. One kinematic chain can originate several mechanisms and each mechanism can originate several parallel manipulators and, in early stages of conceptual design, it is difficult to decide what is the most promising one. Hunt [1] introduced the concept of connectivity and, since then, the connectivity has been used as an important parameter to select the most appropriated parallel manipulators to develop determined task. However, it is difficult to analyze non isomorphic parallel manipulators from the connectivity matrix. In this sense, in this paper, we apply symmetry to reduce the set of parallel manipulators to a manageable few with the desired connectivity. As a result, all promising parallel manipulators originating from a kinematic chain can be analyzed without isomorphisms.
On the Fractional Modelling of the Diffusive Interface
Authors: Maamri Nezha , Tari Massinissa , Trigeassou Jean-Claude
Published: January 2016

This paper deals with the fractional order modelling of a heat transfer diffusive interface, which is considered as a prototype problem. Based on the truncation of the diffusive interface model, we demonstrate that commensurate fractional order models, where the basic order is n=0.5, are natural candidates for the approximation of the diffusive model. Then, we show that frequency approximation can be improved by optimization of the models parameters, using a least squares technique. Non commensurate fractional order models can be also considered as an excellent alternative to the approximation of the diffusive interface, with less model complexity. The main conclusion of this paper is that a diffusive interface can be approximated by two families of fractional models with appropriate and necessary complexity.
Composite Model Reference Adaptive Control for a Class of Nonlinear Fractional Order Systems
Authors: Wei Yiheng , Liang Shu , Hu Yangsheng , Wang Yong
Published: January 2016

This article presents a novel model reference adaptive control of fractional order nonlinear systems, which is a generalization of existing method for integer order systems. The formulating adaptive law is in terms of both tracking and prediction errors, whereas existing methods only depends on tracking error. The transient performance of the closed-loop systems with the proposed control strategy improves in the sense of generating smooth system output. The stability and tracking convergence of the resulting closed-loop system are analyzed via the indirect Lyapunov method. Meanwhile, the proposed controller is implemented by employing some fractional order tracking differentiator to generate the required fractional derivatives of a signal. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of our results.
Automotive Anti-Theft System
Authors: Batra Pulkit
Published: January 2016

Automotive Theft has been a persistent problem around the world. Design and manufacture of anti-theft systems have become more and more intricate due to the rise in complexity of theft in the system. Most of the anti-theft systems existing in the market, are the alarm types which audibly prevent some thieves away but do not prevent one’s car from being stolen and even are not good enough to meet the growing complexity of theft in the country. This paper presents a simple and an efficient anti-theft system which provides enhanced security by the use of efficient access mechanisms and immobilization systems. This security system can immobilise an automobile and its key auto systems through remote control when it is stolen. It hence deters thieves from committing the theft. It also effectively prevents stealing of key auto systems for reselling by introducing four layers of security features written in the form of firmware and embedded on the Electronic Control Units (ECUs). The particulars of system design and operation are defined in the paper. The experimental outcomes show that this system is feasible and the owner can steadily control his vehicle within a few seconds.
An Agent-Based Approach to Synthesizing Structures
Authors: Kiff Robin , Campbell Matthew
Published: January 2016

This paper discusses a new method for the automated synthesis of structures. By creating a framework to implement the synthesis, several methods are compared for the application of building tall self-supporting towers. These towers are evaluated in a physics simulation and comprised of multiple nodes and connections. In this paper, a new agent-based method is compared to existing search methods including random search, A*, and Hill-Climbing search. With the agents making local changes to nodes in the tower, the method achieves better results with less time and memory.
Analytical Investigations on the Mesh Stiffness Function of Solid Narrow Faced Spur and Helical Gears
Authors: Gu Xiaoyu , Velex Philippe , Sainsot Philippe , Bruyère Jérôme
Published: January 2016

Approximate formulae are presented which give the time-varying mesh stiffness function for ideal solid narrow-faced spur and helical gears. The corresponding results compare very well with those obtained by using 2D finite element models and specific benchmark software codes thus validating the proposed analytical approach. More deviations are reported on average mesh stiffness which, to a large extent, are due to the modelling of gear body deflections.
On the Correlation Between Dynamic Transmission Error and Dynamic Tooth Loads in Three-Dimensional Gear Systems
Authors: Sainte-Marie Nina , Velex Philippe , Roulois Guillaume , Marrot Franck
Published: January 2016

A three-dimensional dynamic model is presented to simulate the dynamic behavior of single stage gears by using a combination of classic shaft, lumped parameter and specific 2-node gear elements. The mesh excitation formulation is based on transmission errors whose mathematical grounding is briefly described. The validity of the proposed methodology is assessed by comparison with experimental evidence from a test rig. The model is then employed to analyze the relationship between dynamic transmission errors and dynamic tooth loads or root stresses. It is shown that a linear dependency can be observed between the time variations of dynamic transmission error and tooth loading as long as the system can be assimilated to a torsional system but that this linear relationship tends to disappear when the influence of bending cannot be neglected.
Gene Transcription and Translation in Design
Authors: Hou Yuemin , Linhong Ji
Published: January 2016

An organism grows from very small to the whole body, while an engineering product is assembled from elements. An organism is formed autonomously and adaptable to his/her/its environment, while an engineering product can only execute very limited actions. The formation of a product determines its functionality. Nature is the best teacher for learning how structures are formed for specific functionality. This paper compares the design process with the developmental process of embryo and proposes a qualitative development framework that simulates the gene transcription and translation in biology. The key step in design is transforming behaviors to structures. This is a process from information to the form and it bears some similarity with the process from DNA to the protein in embryogenesis. Three basic steps are required from DNA to the protein: gene transcription, transport and protein synthesis, which is named as gene expression. Key mechanisms contributing to this transformation process are investigated and a qualitative development framework are constructed for a growth design process. Simple examples are presented for illustration of proposed methods.
Design Principles: The Foundation of Design
Authors: Fu Katherine K. , Yang Maria C. , Wood Kristin L.
Published: January 2016

Design principles are created to codify and formalize design knowledge so that innovative, archival practices may be communicated and used to advance design science and solve future design problems, especially the pinnacle, wicked, and grand-challenge problems that face the world and cross-cutting markets. Principles are part of a family of knowledge explication, which also include guidelines, heuristics, rules of thumb, and strategic constructs. Definitions including a range of explications are explored from a number of seminal papers. Based on this analysis, the authors pose formalized definitions for the three most prevalent terms in the literature — principles, guidelines, and heuristics. Current research methods and practices with design principles are categorized and characterized. In analyzing the methodology for discovering, deriving, formulating and validating design principles, the goal is to understand and advance the theoretical basis of design, the foundations of new tools and techniques, and the complex systems of the future. Suggestions for the future of design principles research methodology for added rigor and repeatability are proposed.
Simulation and Analysis of a Fractionally Controlled Active Suspension System Using Quarter Car Model
Authors: Johnson Duval A.
Published: January 2016

This study is conducted to provide preliminary data that fractional calculus can be used to optimize active automobile suspension systems. Most automobile suspension systems perform their duties using a single spring with fixed damping rates and are referred to as being a passive system. An active suspension system has the ability to directly control force actuators in the suspension system or by varying the damping rates within the shock absorbers to provide control over body position, velocity, and acceleration. A mathematical model for a quarter car suspension system has been obtained to compare passive, integer, and fractionally controlled active suspension systems and show that fractional calculus may be used to improve the performance of any active system.
Adaptive Synchronization of a Fractional-Order Complex T System With a Random Parameter
Authors: Liu Xiaojun , Hong Ling
Published: January 2016

In this paper, the adaptive synchronization of a fractional-order complex T system with a random parameter is analyzed. Firstly, the Laguerre polynomial approximation method is applied to investigate the fractional-order system with a random parameter which obeys an exponential distribution. Based on this method, the stochastic system is reduced into the equivalent deterministic one. The improved Adams-Bashforth-Moulton algorithm with the predictor-correctors scheme is used to solve the approximately deterministic system numerically. Based on the stability theory of fractional-order systems, the synchronization for the deterministic system with unknown parameters is realized by designing appropriate synchronization controllers and estimation law for uncertain parameters. Numerical simulations are used to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed scheme.
Underwater Vehicle System Identification Using Laser Light, Decoupled Dynamics and Evolutionary Algorithm
Authors: Chou Yu-Cheng
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a new hybrid method, which integrates the structured laser light, decoupled dynamic models, and evolutionary optimization strategy, to identify dynamic parameters of autonomous underwater vehicles. This is the first research that investigates the utilization of laser scanned images for the system identification of underwater vehicles.

The AUV’s equations of motions and the dynamic parameter identification using the AUV’s decoupled motions will be illustrated. The working principles to calculate the AUV’s positons using the structured laser light will be explained with respect to the surge and pitch motions. The evolutionary optimization strategy used to generate the AUV’s dynamic parameters will be presented.
Influences of the Facing Edge Condition on the Flank Load Carrying Capacity of Helical Gears
Authors: Kadach Daniel , Matt Peter , Tobie Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the main results of the performed experimental investigations and theoretical studies carried out to investigate the main parameters affecting facing edge tooth flank fracture damages of case carburized helical gears.

These facing edge tooth fractures were observed in different industrial gearbox applications as well as within several experimentally based research projects on the pitting load carrying capacity of case hardened gears. The crack origin of these unexpected tooth flank fractures was found to be in the area of the acute facing edge.

As a part of a special research project extensive experimental and test-accompanying investigations as well as theoretical studies were carried out to investigate the main parameters affecting facing edge tooth flank fractures.

The herein found failure mechanism is discussed in detail. Finally, recommendations to avoid gear facing edge tooth flank fractures are given in order to optimize the gear load carrying capacity.
Initialization Energy in Fractional-Order Systems
Authors: Hartley Tom T. , Trigeassou Jean-Claude , Lorenzo Carl F. , Maamri Nezha
Published: January 2016

This paper seeks a deeper understanding of the need for time-varying initialization of fractional-order systems. Specifically, the paper determines the energy stored in a fractional-order element based on the history of the element, and shows how this initialization energy is manifest into the future as an initialization function. Further, it is shown that infinite energy is required to initialize a fractional-order system when using the Caputo derivative Laplace transform.
Non-Contact Monitoring of Preterm Infants Using RGB-D Camera
Authors: Cenci Annalisa , Liciotti Daniele , Frontoni Emanuele , Mancini Adriano , Zingaretti Primo
Published: January 2016

In this study, we present a medical imaging method to estimate the preterm infant respiratory rate with a non invasive embedded RGB-D sensor. The respiratory rate is derived by measuring morphological chest wall movements with a depth sensor. The performances of our method are evaluated by comparing the values of respiratory rate measurements obtained using our method with those resulting from a standard reference device, used as a benchmark. Experimental results showed that the proposed method can correctly measure the respiratory rate in preterm infants and activates an alarm signal when respiratory rate values go out of the physiological range or when the infant remains stationary for a long time. As future development, the project can be used as multi-purpose non invasive test on movements and their symmetry or on the infants’ ability to correctly inflate.