bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
User perceptions of and willingness to pay for household container-based sanitation services: experience from Cap Haitien, Haiti
Authors: Russel Kory , Tilmans Sebastien , Kramer Sasha , Sklar Rachel , Tillias Daniel , Davis Jennifer
Published: August 2015

Household-level container-based sanitation (CBS) services may help address the persistent challenge of providing effective, affordable sanitation services for which low-income urban households are willing to pay. Little is known, however, about user perceptions of and demand for household CBS services. This study presents the results of a pilot CBS service programme in Cap Haitien, Haiti. One hundred and eighteen households were randomly selected to receive toilets and a twice-weekly collection service. After three months, changes in these households’ satisfaction with their sanitation situation, along with feelings of pride, modernity and personal safety, were compared to 248 households in two comparison cohorts. Following the service pilot, 71 per cent of participating households opted to continue with the container-based sanitation service as paying subscribers. The results from this study suggest that, in the context of urban Haiti, household CBS systems have the potential to satisfy many residents’ desire for safe, convenient and modern sanitation services.
Glomerulonephritis in a ferret with feline coronavirus infection
Authors: Fujii Yuta , Tochitani Tomoaki , Kouchi Mami , Matsumoto Izumi , Yamada Toru , Funabashi Hitoshi
Published: August 2015

A male domestic ferret ( Mustela putorius furo), which was purchased from outside of Japan at 13 weeks of age, was euthanized at 18 months of age because of poor health. At autopsy, the liver, spleen, and mesenteric lymph node were enlarged, and white foci were observed on the outer surface of the liver. The outer surface of the mesenteric lymph node was dark red. Histologically, granulomas were observed in the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and lymph nodes, composed mainly of aggregated epithelioid macrophages, some of which were positive to an anti–feline coronavirus (FCoV; Alphacoronavirus 1) antibody in immunohistochemistry. Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis was observed, and periodic acid–Schiff-positive deposits were observed along glomerular capillary walls. These deposits stained pale red with periodic acid–methenamine silver stain and red with Masson trichrome stain, and were also observed in the mesangial matrix. In affected glomeruli, glomerular capillary walls and mesangial areas were positive for anti-ferret immunoglobulin G. By electron microscopy, subepithelial and mesangial electron-dense deposits were observed consistent with immune complex deposition. The deposition of immune complexes may have been associated with FCoV infection.
Comparison of primer sets for T-cell clonality testing in canine intestinal lymphoma
Authors: Takanosu Masamine , Kagawa Yumiko
Published: August 2015

Clonality testing based on polymerase chain reaction is an important tool for diagnosis of lymphoproliferative diseases. Many primers have been designed and used for canine clonality testing. Canine intestinal lymphoma is usually diagnosed pathologically by examination of excised intestinal or endoscopic biopsy tissues, and clonality testing is sometimes used to support the pathological diagnosis if this examination is inconclusive. In the present study, the sensitivity of each previously published primer set for clonality testing was examined by using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections from 39 cases pathologically diagnosed as canine intestinal lymphoma (large-cell type). All 39 cases were immunohistochemically positive for cluster of differentiation (CD)3. Thirty-two out of the 39 cases showed clonality in the T-cell receptor gamma ( TRG) with at least 1 of the tested primers. The primer set with the highest sensitivity detected all 32 cases with TRG clonality, with a sensitivity of 82.1%. These results provide useful evidence for the selection of primer sets for clonality testing of canine intestinal lymphoma.
Veterans in the College Classroom
Authors: López Omar S. , Springer Stephen B. , Nelson Jeffrey B.
Published: August 2015

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) remain central topics in institutions’ efforts to address student veteran needs. From the authors’ experiences with student veterans, they present the five principles of effective instructional practice identified by the National Research Council (NRC) within the context of college teaching. The purpose of this article is to inform faculty of the benefits of implementing these principles, thereby increasing the likelihood of academic success for all students, especially student veterans.
Commercial-Off-the-Shelf-Technology in UK Military Training
Authors: Curry John , Price Tim , Sabin Phil
Published: August 2015

Aim. This article gives an overview of how commercial computer game technology was introduced for training, education and decision support within the British Army.

Value of the article. It records the narrative of the introduction and development of first person shooter computer games into the British Army; an area where developments are not routinely reported outside the closed world of defence training.

Methodology. The research was based on interviews of key staff who worked in procurement at the Defence Academy of the UK and for the MoD during 2002 to 2012. The interviewees included two officers, an experienced defence contractor and a senior civil servant. These interviews were given on the understanding that the views expressed would not be individually attributable as they might not represent those of their current employers. The authors were also given access to a unique collection of documents, some of which were not publically available, but are held in the archives of the UK Defence Academy. These are cited in the bibliography.

Limitations of the article. This article cites the evidence from the time that supported the continued use of what was a radical and contentious new way of training. Since the introduction of Virtual Battle Space 2 into the British Army, further research into the effectiveness of games based training in the military has been published.

Analysis. Games based training has become a significant part of the training cycle for many parts of the British Army. These games have limitations, but are the only alternative to real operations for some types of training. However, the difficult topic of what is the correct proportion of games based training to other types? is a contested area within defence training in the UK.

Conclusions. Initial evaluations on the effectiveness of the use of computer games in preparing UK forces for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan showed they had a significant positive impact. The first experience of the British Army with these games has secured the long-term application of this technology and it is unrealistic to imagine future military training without some degree of games technology.
Farmworker Housing in the United States and Its Impact on Health
Authors: Quandt Sara A. , Brooke Carol , Fagan Kathleen , Howe Allyson , Thornburg Thomas K. , McCurdy Stephen A.
Published: August 2015

Farmworkers in the United States occupy a range of housing, including both on- and off-farm family and communal dwellings. As the farmworker population is becoming more settled, housing needs are changing. Existing regulations designed originally for grower-supplied migrant housing may need to be expanded. Much of farmworker housing is in poor condition, and likely linked to negative mental and physical health outcomes of residents because of exposures to crowding; mold, mildew, and other allergens; pesticides; and structural deficiencies. The existing research literature, both on housing conditions and their associations with farmworker health, is sparse, and large areas of the country and significant domains of health are omitted. This paper reviews this literature and formulates research and policy recommendations for addressing these deficiencies.
Facilitating Commenting and Requesting Skills in 3-Year-Old Children With Disabilities
Authors: Stanton-Chapman Tina L. , Brown Tiara S.
Published: August 2015

The current study evaluated the commenting behaviors and verbal and non-verbal requests of children with disabilities (e.g., developmental delays, specific language impairment) who participated in a shared storybook social communication intervention that included sociodramatic play themes and targeted skills such as initiations, responses, name use, proximity, and turn-taking. Six children who enrolled in a self-contained classroom met the inclusion criteria. A multiple-baseline design was used to determine the effects of the intervention. The social communication intervention was highly effective for all children in increasing the rate of commenting behaviors and for verbal behavior from baseline to intervention. Several implications for practice were derived from the findings. By teaching children social communication strategies, the quality of social interactions that children have with their peers is likely to improve. The intervention offers a more systematic technique for teaching social communication and play skills than do informal strategies commonly used by teachers. Social validity assessments indicated that teachers found the intervention acceptable and produced important changes in behavior.
New setup-oriented dispatching rules for a stochastic dynamic job shop manufacturing system with sequence-dependent setup times
Authors: Sharma Pankaj , Jain Ajai
Published: August 2015

In this article, an attempt is to provide new setup-oriented dispatching rules for a stochastic dynamic job shop scheduling problem while considering sequence-dependent setup times. A discrete event simulation model of the stochastic dynamic job shop manufacturing system is developed for the investigation purpose. Nine dispatching rules taken from the literature are incorporated in the simulation model. Four new setup-oriented dispatching rules are proposed. The simulation experiments are conducted under shop utilization percentage of 90% and setup time less than processing time. The results indicate that the proposed new setup-oriented dispatching rules provide better performance than the existing dispatching rules taken from the literature.
Correlation of Clinical, Operative, and Histopathologic Diagnosis of Interdigital Neuroma and the Cost of Routine Diagnosis
Authors: O’Connor Kathryn M. , Johnson Jeffrey E. , McCormick Jeremy J. , Klein Sandra E.
Published: August 2015

Background:

Diagnosis of an interdigital neuroma (IDN) is clinically based on patient symptoms. During operative excision, it is common to send the excised specimen for routine histopathologic examination. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the clinical and intraoperative diagnosis of IDN and correlate these with the histopathologic results of IDN.

Methods:

Case logs of 3 fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeons were reviewed to identify all neuroma excisions completed between 1997 and 2014. Charts were reviewed to identify the preoperative clinical diagnosis and intraoperative diagnosis as well as concern for pathology besides a neuroma. All results were compared to final histopathology to identify instances of discordance between diagnoses. A total of 123 patients with 133 neuromas were identified.

Results:

Of the total 133 neuromas, 5 cases included a clinical or intraoperative concern for a diagnosis other than neuroma. In these 5 instances surgeons accurately identified cysts and rheumatoid nodules. 132 of 133 histopathology reports indicated the presence of nerve tissue in their report. There were no reports of malignancy or abnormal nerve tissue. There were no changes to the postoperative protocol based on histopathology.

Conclusion:

The clinical, intraoperative, and histopathologic diagnosis of neuroma was in concordance 100% of the time. With a high level of clinical and intraoperative acumen in identifying a neuroma, we believe it is reasonable not to submit the specimen for histopathologic evaluation. In addition, limiting the amount of routine histopathologic evaluation could have saved approximately $480 per case.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Associations Between Pre-Implant Psychosocial Factors and Spinal Cord Stimulation Outcome
Authors: Block Andrew R. , Marek Ryan J. , Ben-Porath Yossef S. , Kukal Deborah
Published: August 2015

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has variable effectiveness in controlling chronic pain. Previous research has demonstrated that psychosocial factors are associated with diminished results of SCS. The objective of this investigation is to examine associations between pre-implant psychological functioning as measured by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2–Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) and SCS outcomes. SCS candidates at two sites (total N = 319) completed the MMPI-2-RF and measures of pain, emotional distress, and functional ability as part of a pre-implant psychological evaluation. At an average of 5 months post-implant, patients completed the measures of pain and emotional distress a second time. Poorer SCS outcomes and poorer patient satisfaction were associated with higher pre-implant MMPI-2-RF scores on scales used to assess emotional dysfunction, somatic/cognitive complaints, and interpersonal problems. Ways through which pre-implant psychological evaluations of spinal cord stimulator candidates can be informed by MMPI-2-RF findings are discussed.
The Trail Making Test
Authors: Llinàs-Reglà Jordi , Vilalta-Franch Joan , López-Pousa Secundino , Calvó-Perxas Laia , Torrents Rodas David , Garre-Olmo Josep
Published: August 2015

The Trail Making Test (TMT) is used as an indicator of visual scanning, graphomotor speed, and executive function. The aim of this study was to examine the TMT relationships with several neuropsychological measures and to provide normative data in community-dwelling participants of 55 years and older. A population-based Spanish-speaking sample of 2,564 participants was used. The TMT, Symbol Digit Test, Stroop Color–Word Test, Digit Span Test, Verbal Fluency tests, and the MacQuarrie Test for Mechanical Ability tapping subtest were administered. Exploratory factor analyses and regression lineal models were used. Normative data for the TMT scores were obtained. A total of 1,923 participants (76.3%) participated, 52.4% were women, and the mean age was 66.5 years (Digit Span = 8.0). The Symbol Digit Test, MacQuarrie Test for Mechanical Ability tapping subtest, Stroop Color–Word Test, and Digit Span Test scores were associated in the performance of most TMT scores, but the contribution of each measure was different depending on the TMT score. Normative tables according to significant factors such as age, education level, and sex were created. Measures of visual scanning, graphomotor speed, and visuomotor processing speed were more related to the performance of the TMT-A score, while working memory and inhibition control were mainly associated with the TMT-B and derived TMT scores.
Randomized controlled trials in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Police Rachel L , Trask Peter C , Wang Jianmin , Olivares Robert , khan Shahnaz , Abbe Adeline , Colosia Ann , Njue Annete , Sherril Beth , Ruiz-Soto Rodrigo , Kaye James A , Hamadani Mehdi
Published: August 2015

This systematic literature review evaluated the clinical efficacy and safety of interventions used in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma. Primary efficacy outcomes were objective response rate, progression-free survival and overall survival. Safety endpoints were grade 3/4 toxicities, serious adverse events and withdrawals or deaths due to toxicity. Studies were selected if they were randomized controlled trials reporting on the efficacy or safety of treatments for relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma, and if outcomes were reported separately from trials that included other lymphoid neoplasms. We used the Bucher method for conducting adjusted indirect comparisons within a meta-analysis. We identified 10 randomized controlled trials of treatments for relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma. The most prominent drug investigated (alone or in combination) was rituximab. Most trials did not report median overall survival. Two trials reported median event-free survival (range, 1.2-23.2 months). Six of ten trials reported objective response rate (range, 9–93%). Meta-analysis showed only one statistically significant result: rituximab + bortezomib yielded a significantly higher objective response rate than rituximab monotherapy (relative risk, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.11–1.47). Otherwise, there were no discernable differences in overall survival or progression-free survival, partly due to insufficient reporting of results in the clinical trials. The relatively small number of randomized controlled trials, few overlapping treatment arms, and variability in the randomized controlled trial features and in the endpoints studied complicate the formal comparison of therapies for relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma. Additional well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to fully understand the relative outcomes of older and more recently developed therapies.
Clinical Features and Patient Outcomes of Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Kim Whan B. , Sibbald R. Gary , Hu Howard , Bashash Morteza , Anooshirvani Niloofar , Coutts Patricia , Alavi Afsaneh
Published: August 2015

Background:

Despite the high burden of disease associated with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), epidemiologic data are scarce.

Objective:

The objective was to review demographic features and clinical findings in 80 HS patients from 2 referral centres in Ontario, Canada, from October 2013 to September 2014, and to assess for factors that are associated with more advanced disease.

Methods:

Multicentre cross-sectional study. The data on demographic and clinical features were obtained by questionnaires and chart review.

Results:

Of a total of 80 patients (67.5% females), percentages of patients in Hurley stages I, II, and III were 15.4%, 55.8%, and 28.9%, respectively. Most patients were not diagnosed for more than 1 year (70.1%). Patients with more severe disease were more likely to be females and to have a greater number of lesions and were less likely to be diagnosed initially by a dermatologist.

Conclusions:

This study documents the common demographic and clinical features of HS to optimize resource allocation and patient outcomes.
Comparison of Autoimmune Thyroid Disease in Patients With Progressive and Stable Vitiligo
Authors: Yazdanpanah Mohammad Javad , Seyedi Noghabi Seyed Ali , Taghavi Morteza , Afzal Aghaee Monavar , Zabolinejad Naghmeh
Published: August 2015

Background and Objective:

Activity of vitiligo has not been considered as a patient selection criteria in previous studies; we decided to compare the presence of elevated thyroid auto-antibodies in patients with progressive and stable vitiligo.

Methods:

Seventy-two patients with vitiligo were examined for thyroid problems and were divided into 2 groups of stable and progressive vitiligo according to their history and physical examination. Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO antibodies), thyroxine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were assessed for all patients.

Results:

Elevated levels of anti-TPO antibodies were observed in 43.7% of the patients with stable vitiligo and in 37.5% of patients with progressive vitiligo, which was not statistically significant ( P = .315).

Conclusion:

This study not only confirmed thyroid dysfunction in patients with vitiligo but also showed that there was no difference in thyroid dysfunction and anti-TPO antibody levels in the subgroups of patients with stable or progressive vitiligo.
Wear behavior for striated ridge intersected with obtuse angle on a newly developed test rig
Authors: Huang Haibo , Chen Xing , Fan Binbin , Jin Yucun
Published: August 2015

Experimental study of wear characteristics for striated ridge intersected by two surfaces with obtuse angle were carried out with a newly developed test rig, with the purpose of gaining insight into its wear resistance. The developed test rig was a rotational one with axes supported on a lathe, which enabled geometrical alterations of wear pair with system load flexibility and online monitoring. The full-scale and orthogonal experiments for striated ridge wear were conducted for sensitivity analysis and obtaining optimal parameters combination for minimum wear, respectively. In addition, surface morphology was checked by optical inspection and mechanical behavior was studied utilizing finite element method. The results show that the wear resistance of striated ridge was better than that of the smooth ridge. The striated ridge had better wear resistance with greater striation area ratio. The order of the factors’ impact on ridge wear depth loss was: surface intersecting angle, striation quantity and striation width. Furthermore, the striate units across the ridge can lower the von Mises stress and shear stress on the ridge and relax the stress distribution of materials, leading a decrease of the ridge wear.
What explains former rebel party name changes after a civil conflict ends? External and internal factors and the transition to political competition
Authors: Ishiyama John , Marshall Michael
Published: August 2015

The transformation of rebel groups into political parties has captured the attention of scholars of both conflict studies and of party transformation. In this paper we examine the question of rebel party image change by investigating the causes of name changes adopted by a rebel organization as it transforms into a political party after the end of a civil conflict. We develop an analytical framework based upon the extensive literature on party identity change in the West, and apply it to the name changes of rebel parties. Using an original data set of 54 former rebel organizations, we find that factors internal to the organization (such as the degree of inclusivity and the origins of the rebel organization) explain name change more than factors related to the post conflict environment.
Evaluation of intervention measures for respiratory disease transmission on cruise ships
Authors: Zheng Lijie , Chen Qingyan , Xu Jian , Wu Fangliang
Published: August 2015

Respiratory diseases are common infectious illnesses on cruise ships. This study integrated an individual-to-individual probability model, a susceptible-exposed-infected-recovered epidemic model at the individual scale, and an onboard indoor social contact network model for evaluating the infection risk on a typical cruise ship voyage. The integrated model was validated by data from a previous influenza outbreak and was able to simulate the infection spreading. The model was used to assess the effects of various intervention measures on controlling influenza on a cruise ship with one index passenger. The results show that individuals in crew cabins and restaurants faced the highest infection risk. Increasing the air change rate in some or all locations could reduce the infection risk to some extent. High-efficiency particulate air filters and ultraviolet germicidal irradiation devices in ventilation systems were the most effective measures. Surgical masks worn by crew members or a quarantine of the index passenger and his/her roommate could reduce the attack rate only to a moderate extent.
Regional health governance: A suggested agenda for Southern African health diplomacy
Authors: Penfold Erica Dale , Fourie Pieter
Published: August 2015

Regional organisations can effectively promote regional health diplomacy and governance through engagement with regional social policy. Regional bodies make decisions about health challenges in the region, for example, the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) and the World Health Organisation South East Asia Regional Office (WHO-SEARO). The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has a limited health presence as a regional organisation and diplomatic partner in health governance. This article identifies how SADC facilitates and coordinates health policy, arguing that SADC has the potential to promote regional health diplomacy and governance through engagement with regional social policy. The article identifies the role of global health diplomacy and niche diplomacy in health governance. The role of SADC as a regional organisation and the way it functions is then explained, focusing on how SADC engages with health issues in the region. Recommendations are made as to how SADC can play a more decisive role as a regional organisation to implement South–South management of the regional social policy, health governance and health diplomacy agenda.
Stretching health diplomacy beyond ‘Global’ problem solving: Bringing the regional normative dimension in
Authors: Cooper Andrew F , Farooq Asif B
Published: August 2015

The importance of the regional dimension of health diplomacy is only gaining slow and uneven recognition. This is in many ways surprising. As demonstrated in the work of Deacon on the ‘globalization of social policy’, global social policy has been animated and debated not only at the multilateral level but at the regional level as well. But at least in the diplomatic literature, the importance of this regional dynamic (with a focus on diverse sites and actors and the pursuit of democratic control) has been missed. The objective of this article is to explore whether health diplomacy is catching up to this larger debate re-shaping the conceptualization and practice of diplomacy more generally. In some ways, the results may be counter-productive in that this shift may encourage an increasingly fragmented process. Yet, it may also point to some breakthroughs, with diplomats, acting as ‘go to’ personnel on the front lines of operational activity, enabling actors to integrate with one another to produce effective governance. In doing so, the regional dimension is given greater recognition as a component of health diplomacy, albeit in an uneven and sometimes awkward manner. Whereas global diplomacy generally emphasizes problem solving, the regional dimension is animated by a normative orientation.
Should planners join politics? Would that help them make better cities?
Authors: Karki Tej Kumar
Published: August 2015

Without power and political authority, planning theorists’ advice for planners to be politically astute is of little help. The politically astute planners could do little in the face of political pressure. In this context, the logical advice for planners would be to join politics and acquire the political authority that they need to materialize their plans. This article, through case studies from the United States, Brazil, and Nepal, shows that the planners who joined politics were able to accomplish some of the most difficult planning tasks in their towns and suggests that planners should take up elected position as and when possible.
AAC Modeling With the iPad During Shared Storybook Reading Pilot Study
Authors: Sennott Samuel C. , Mason Linda H.
Published: August 2015

This pilot study describes an intervention package, MODELER for Read and Talk, designed to provide enriched language interaction for children with complex communication needs who require augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). MODELER (Model, Encourage, Respond) includes (a) modeling AAC as you speak, (b) encouraging communication (through time delay for this study), and (c) responding to child communication (by recasting using AAC as you speak for this study). This pilot A-B design study reports on a method for coaching educational assistants (EAs) to use MODELER for Read and Talk in the context of shared book reading with a pre-school-aged child using an Apple iPad and AAC app. The study provides positive results indicating EA instructional performance gains in MODELER steps and large gains in AAC models performed. The results indicated that the child participant subsequently engaged in higher levels of communication turns. Implications for practice, limitations, and future research directions are discussed.
Multi-layer electrospun nanofiber mats with chemical agent sensor function
Authors: Golmohammadi Rostami Sahar , Sorayani Bafqi M Sajad , Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Latifi Masoud , Gorji Mohsen
Published: August 2015

Electrospun nanofiber web were developed to examine the feasibility of developing chemical and warfare agent detector textile materials. Some parameters of nanofiber mats, including the polymer type, time of electrospinning and the polymer solution concentration, were designed to change and pH detection properties of specimens were compared. Multi-layered electrospun nanofiber mats equipped with pH sensitive dyes showed good performance in pH detecting property that opens up new possibilities for using in the protective garment application as the chemical and warfare agent detectors. It was also found that the developed electrospun fibers due to their porous structure and fiber diameter distribution are stable for chemical warfare detection in the form of gas.
Axisymmetric stagnation-point flow of a third-grade fluid over a lubricated surface
Authors: Sajid M , Ahmad M , Ahmad I , Taj M , Abbasi A
Published: August 2015

In this article, axisymmetric stagnation-point flow of a third-grade fluid over a disk lubricated with a power law fluid is considered. Due to thin lubrication layer of variable thickness, third-grade fluid experiences a partial slip on the surface. The flow problem is governed through a system of nonlinear partial differential equations with nonlinear boundary conditions. A nonsimilar solution is presented in this article by implementing hybrid homotopy analysis method. This method combines the features of homotopy analysis and shooting methods. The results varying from no-slip to full-slip case are discussed under the influence of pertinent parameters.
A new model for Thomson-type actuator including the pressure buffer
Authors: Wu Yifei , Li Mei , Rong Mingzhe , Wu Yi , Yang Fei , Niu Chunping , Hu Yang , Liu Zirui , Guo Anxiang , Zhou Yihuan
Published: August 2015

The motion characteristics and flow field variation of Thomson-type actuator have been investigated in this article, in which a two-dimensional axisymmetric cylindrical coordinate model is constructed and described by a set of multi-physical equations reflecting the flow field, transient electromagnetic field, electric circuit, and mechanical motion. The motion performance of the actuator and the pressure drag caused by the high-speed movement of metal plate are analyzed under different opening speeds. It shows that the pressure drag has a strong buffer effect on the actuator. The influence of the laminar and standard [Formula: see text] models on the pressure distribution, velocity distribution, and motion characteristics is focused on. In comparison with the laminar model, the pressure drag of the turbulence model is much higher than the laminar model and is more beneficial for the buffer design of the mechanism.
Effect of cutting speed and feed in turning hardened stainless steel using coated carbide cutting tool under minimum quantity lubrication using castor oil
Authors: Elmunafi Mohamed Handawi Saad , Mohd Yusof Noordin , Kurniawan Denni
Published: August 2015

Minimum quantity lubrication is a technique to have the advantages that cutting fluids bring yet keeping their use at minimum. For the cutting fluids, inedible vegetable oils are potential for minimum quantity lubrication machining. Castor oil was selected in this study as the cutting fluid for turning of hardened stainless steel (hardness of 47–48 HRC). The hard turning was with minimum quantity lubrication (50 mL/h flow rate and 5 bar air pressure) at various cutting speeds (100, 135, and 170 m/min) and feeds (0.16, 0.20, and 0.24 mm/rev). The machining responses were tool life, surface roughness, and cutting forces. Design of experiments was applied to quantify the effects of cutting parameters to the machining responses. Empirical models for tool life, surface roughness, and cutting forces were developed within the range of cutting parameters selected. All machining responses are significantly influenced by the cutting speed and feed. Tool life is inversely proportional to cutting speed and feed. Surface roughness is inversely proportional to cutting speed yet is proportional to feed. Cutting forces are more influenced by feed than by cutting speed. A combination of low cutting speed and feed was the optimum cutting parameters to achieve long tool life, low surface roughness, and low cutting forces.
Stochastic separated flow models with applications in numerical computations of supersonic particle-laden turbulent flows
Authors: Wang Bing , Ren Zhaoxin , Zhang Huiqiang
Published: August 2015

In this article, three stochastic separated flow models were applied to predict the dispersion of inertial fuel particles in the supersonic turbulent flows. The flow field of continuous phase was simulated by means of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes method with a two-equation turbulence model. Clift’s expression was used to modify the drag force on the particle considering the compressibility effects. The particle-phase statistics were obtained by a secondary-order time-weighed Eulerian method. The ability of those stochastic separated flow models was then compared for predicting the mean particle velocity and the particle dispersion. For obtaining a statistically stationary solution, the stochastic separated flow model required the largest number of computational particles, whereas the improved stochastic separated flow model was found to need the least. The time-series stochastic separation flow model lay in-between. Compared with the other two models, the particle dispersion was over-predicted by the stochastic separated flow model in the supersonic particle-laden boundary layer flow, while the improved stochastic separated flow model was less predictable for the particle spatial distribution in the particle-laden strut-injection flow. Three models could well predict the mean velocities of the particle phase. This study is valuable for selecting a validated model used for predicting the particle dispersion in supersonic turbulent flows.
Description of the types and content of phase 1 clinical trial consent conversations in practice
Authors: Wall Louisa , Farmer Zachary Luke , Webb Margaret White , Dixon Margie D , Nooka Ajay , Pentz Rebecca D
Published: August 2015

Background or aims:

All agree that informed consent is a process, but past research has focused content analyses on post-consent or on one conversation in the consent series. Our aim was to identify and describe the content of different types of consent conversations.

Methods:

We conducted a secondary analysis of 38 adult oncology phase 1 consent conversations, which were audio-recorded, transcribed, coded, and qualitatively analyzed for type and content.

Results:

Four types of consent conversations were identified: (1) priming, (2) patient-centered options, (3) trial centered, and (4) decision made. The analysis provided a robust description of the content discussed in each type of conversation. Two themes, supportive care and prognosis, were rarely mentioned. Four themes clustered in the patient-centered (type 2) conversations: affirmation of honesty, comfort, progression, and offer of supportive care.

Conclusion:

We identified and described four types of consent conversations. Our novel findings include (1) four different types of conversations with one (priming) not mentioned before and (2) a change of focus from describing the content of one phase 1 consent conversation to describing the content of different types. These in-depth descriptions provide the foundation for future research to determine whether the four types of conversations occur in sequence, thus describing the structure of the consent process and providing the basis for coaching interventions to alert physicians to the appropriate content for each type of conversation. A switch from a focus on one conversation to the types of conversations in the process may better align the consent conversations with the iterative process of shared decision making.
The multifaceted nature of mentors’ authentic leadership and mentees’ emotional intelligence
Authors: Shapira-Lishchinsky Orly , Levy-Gazenfrantz Tania
Published: August 2015

The aim of the study was to investigate, from a critical perspective, mentees’ perceptions regarding the persons they view as their influential mentors – whether they regard them as authentic leaders and whether these mentors affect the development of mentees’ emotional intelligence (EI). Using a sample of 62 teacher-mentees from different school levels and different sectors in Israel, semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants’ perceptions of mentoring processes that had influenced them professionally. A qualitative analysis, based on a confirmatory approach using ATLAS.ti, revealed that the influential mentors were perceived as authentic leaders, acting within different dimensions of authentic leadership (AL) at different levels. In addition, it was found that mentees perceived their influential mentors as contributing to the development of the mentees’ EI, including different relationships between the various dimensions of AL and the different dimensions of EI. This led to the generation of a multifaceted model which may develop a critical perspective regarding the difficulty of mentoring, considering the uncertainly in mentors’ works. The findings support this critical review of mentoring and, it is argued, will encourage educational leaders to focus on advancing different dimensions of authentic leadership during mentors’ professional development programs, in order to develop different dimensions of mentees’ EI.
Outcome of flexor digitorum superficialis opponensplasty for Type II and IIIA thumb hypoplasia
Authors: de Kraker M. , Selles R. W. , Zuidam J. M. , Molenaar H. M. , Stam H. J. , Hovius S. E.
Published: August 2015

This study reports on outcomes of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon transfer from the ring finger in Type II and IIIA hypoplastic thumbs. We included 22 patients with 27 involved hands: 16 Type II thumbs and five Type IIIA treated by transfer and six non-operated Type II thumbs. The outcomes were assessed by range of motion, strength, sensibility, joint stability and patient/parent satisfaction. Compared with normative data, the range of motion was diminished in all patient groups. Opposition strength in operated Type II thumbs was significantly better than in non-operated thumbs. Grip strength, pinch strength, tripod strength and key pinch strength were approximately 50% of normal in Type II thumbs and 35% in Type IIIA thumbs. Metacarpophalangeal joint stability was restored in all operated Type II thumbs and in 40% of Type IIIA thumbs. We conclude that the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon transfer of the ring finger is a good functioning opponensplasty in both Type II and IIIA thumbs. The transfer provides excellent stability of the metacarpophalangeal joint in Type II thumbs.

Level of Evidence: Level IV
Unfavourable short-term outcomes of a poly-L/D-lactide scaffold for thumb trapeziometacarpal arthroplasty
Authors: Mattila S. , Waris E.
Published: August 2015

The bioabsorbable poly-L-D-lactide joint scaffold arthroplasty is a recent attempt in the reconstruction of small joints in rheumatoid patients. In this study, we analysed the 1-year clinical, functional and radiologic results of partial trapeziectomy with the poly-L-D-lactide (96/4) joint scaffold in 23 patients with isolated trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis. The results showed that the procedure provided pain relief and improvement in overall function according to the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score in most patients. However, radiographs demonstrated a high frequency of osteolysis around the implant. Seven patients developed clinically manifested foreign-body reactions 6 months to 1 year after surgery. The reason for the unexpected tissue reactions may relate to excessive mechanical cyclic loading of the implant. The outcomes of this implant in our patients have not been sufficiently beneficial and we have discontinued use of this implant in isolated trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis.
Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer: how the latest results are improving therapeutic options
Authors: Jiang Hanfang , Rugo Hope S.
Published: August 2015

Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) metastatic breast cancer (MBC) remains an incurable disease, and approximately 25% of patients with HER2+ early breast cancer still relapse after adjuvant trastuzumab-based treatment. HER2 is a validated therapeutic target that remains relevant throughout the disease process. Recently, a number of novel HER2 targeted agents have become available, including lapatinib (a small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor of both HER2 and the epidermal growth factor receptor), pertuzumab (a new anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody) and ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1, a novel antibody–drug conjugate), which provide additional treatment options for patients with HER2+ MBC. The latest clinical trials have demonstrated improved outcome with treatment including pertuzumab or T-DM1 compared with standard HER2 targeted therapy. Here we review the clinical development of approved and investigational targeted agents for the treatment of HER2+ MBC, summarize the latest results of important clinical trials supporting use of these agents in the treatment of HER2+ MBC, and discuss how these results impact therapeutic options in clinical practice.
Evaluation of Intradermal and Subcutaneous Infusion Set Performance Under 24-Hour Basal and Bolus Conditions
Authors: McVey Elaine , Keith Steven , Herr Joshua K. , Sutter Diane , Pettis Ronald J.
Published: August 2015

Background:

This study sought to assess the function and delivery reliability of intradermal (ID) infusion sets used with commercial insulin pumps.

Method:

Healthy subjects (n = 43) were randomized to either ID or subcutaneous (SC) arms, and received basal/bolus placebo delivery for 24 hours. Subjects received 4 of 8 infusion set combinations (ID: microneedle design A or B, with 2 pump brands [Animas or MiniMed]; SC: Teflon Quickset or steel Rapid-D, Animas pump only, with or without overtaping) and were evaluated for pump occlusion alarms, fluid leakage, pain, and tissue tolerability. A novel algorithm was developed to determine flow consistency based on fluid pressure, and the duration and occurrence rate for periods of unalarmed but interrupted flow (“silent occlusions’”) were compared.

Results:

ID delivery was successfully maintained over the 24-hour infusion period. The number of silent occlusions was lower for ID microneedle cannula design B than A ( P < .01) and lower for Rapid-D SC device compared to Quick-set ( P = .03). There was no significant difference in the number of occlusion alarms between the ID and SC devices with the Animas pump. However, the pumps tested with ID devices had significantly different alarm rates (MiniMed 29.5%, Animas 0%, P < .001). Leakage and tissue tolerability were comparable across devices.

Conclusion:

The ID infusion set reliably delivered diluent for an extended 24-hour period in healthy subjects and was well tolerated. Silent occlusion flow interruptions could be detected in both ID and SC infusion sets using a proprietary algorithm. This algorithm is a promising method for quantitatively evaluating infusion set flow performance.
How to Deal With Chronic Patellar Instability
Authors: Sanchis-Alfonso Vicente
Published: August 2015

Context:

Patellar instability is a common clinical problem, affecting between 7 and 49 people per 100,000. However, not all patellar instabilities are equal, the etiology of the disorder is multifactorial, and a clear understanding of the cause of instability is crucial for appropriate surgical treatment. The goal of this article is to identify how to best treat patellar instability to provide good outcomes and hopefully prevent future osteoarthritis.

Evidence Acquisition:

A PubMed search from 1983 through May 2015.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

Several subpopulations of patients with chronic patellar instability exist: (1) lateral patellar instability during the early arc of knee flexion (0°-30°), (2) lateral patellar instability persisting beyond 30° of knee flexion, (3) lateral patellar instability in greater knee flexion, and (4) medial patellar instability. In patients with lateral instability during the early arc of knee flexion, the medial patellofemoral deficiency is the essential lesion. Persistent instability beyond 30° of knee flexion suggests an unusually high patella, severe trochlear dysplasia, pathologic increment of the tibial tuberosity–trochlear groove distance, or a combination of these factors. In patients with lateral instability in greater knee flexion, increasing and unbalanced tension in the extensors pulls the patella out of the groove as the knee is flexed. Finally, medial patellar instability is an objective iatrogenic condition that appears after realignment surgery in the vast majority of cases.

Conclusion:

The etiology of chronic patellar instability is multifactorial, and its treatment must therefore be personalized.

Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy (SORT):

B.
Effects of anger regulation and social anxiety on perceived stress
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayano , Kim Min-Sun , Akutsu Satoshi , Oshio Atsushi
Published: August 2015

The mediating role of social anxiety was explored within the effect of anger regulation on perceived stress in the national sample of American and Japanese older adults. Results indicated that anger suppression is a significant factor in perceived stress mediated by social anxiety. Anger suppression was also directly related to perceived stress. The correlation of anger suppression with social anxiety was stronger in Japan than in the United States. Understanding both universal and culture-specific aspects of emotion regulation and perceived stress will be essential for the development of sound theory, future research, and effective prevention and intervention efforts.
Retention in Care of HIV-Positive Postpartum Females in Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Reece Rebecca , Norman Betty , Kwara Awewura , Flanigan Timothy , Rana Aadia
Published: August 2015

Background:

Despite the success of prevention of mother-to-child transmission programs, transition to care in the postpartum period is vulnerable to being lost to care.

Methods:

The authors performed a 2-year retrospective study of postpartum HIV-infected patients at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana. The outcome was classified as optimal follow-up, suboptimal follow-up, and loss to follow-up (LTFU). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify factors associated with optimal retention.

Results:

Follow-up was optimal in 66%, suboptimal in 16%, and LTFU in 18% of patients. The rate of LTFU was 22% among women diagnosed at pregnancy and 13% among those with known HIV diagnosis ( P = .078). Adherence counseling (odds ratio [OR] 5.0, confidence interval [CI] 1.6-15.7; P = .006) and family planning (FP; OR 2.3, CI 1.0-5.3; P = .041) were predictive of optimal follow-up.

Conclusion:

At 1 year, only two-thirds of postpartum women remained in care. Investigating barriers to adherence counseling and FP may impact engagement in care among HIV-infected women.