bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ontogenetic stage‐specific quantitative trait loci contribute to divergence in developmental trajectories of sexually dimorphic fins between medaka populations
Authors: Kawajiri Maiko , Yoshida Kohta , Fujimoto Shingo , Mokodongan Daniel Frikli , Ravinet Mark , Kirkpatrick Mark , Yamahira Kazunori , Kitano Jun
Published: September 2014

Sexual dimorphism can evolve when males and females differ in phenotypic optima. Genetic constraints can, however, limit the evolution of sexual dimorphism. One possible constraint is derived from alleles expressed in both sexes. Because males and females share most of their genome, shared alleles with different fitness effects between sexes are faced with intralocus sexual conflict. Another potential constraint is derived from genetic correlations between developmental stages. Sexually dimorphic traits are often favoured at adult stages, but selected against as juvenile, so developmental decoupling of traits between ontogenetic stages may be necessary for the evolution of sexual dimorphism in adults. Resolving intralocus conflicts between sexes and ages is therefore a key to the evolution of age‐specific expression of sexual dimorphism. We investigated the genetic architecture of divergence in the ontogeny of sexual dimorphism between two populations of the Japanese medaka (Oryzias latipes) that differ in the magnitude of dimorphism in anal and dorsal fin length. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping revealed that fewQTLhad consistent effects throughout ontogenetic stages and the majority ofQTLchange the sizes and directions of effects on fin growth rates during ontogeny. We also found that mostQTLwere sex‐specific, suggesting that intralocus sexual conflict is almost resolved. Our results indicate that sex‐ and age‐specificQTLenable the populations to achieve optimal developmental trajectories of sexually dimorphic traits in response to complex natural and sexual selection.
Identifying with the old or the new state: nation‐building vs. Yugonostalgia in the Yugoslav successor states
Authors: Kolstø Pål
Published: September 2014

The article examines to what degree attachment to a former multinational state which breaks up may complicate national consolidation in new states, as was the case in the Soviet Union and Titoist Yugoslavia. In the former Yugoslavia such attachment is usually referred to as ‘Yugonostalgia’, and various opinions have been expressed about its strength and possible political consequences today. Only in 2011, however, was an attempt made to measure Yugonostalgia quantitatively and analyse this phenomenon comparatively in the various successor states. A large‐scale survey showed that while Yugonostalgics in some countries were less loyal than other citizens towards the new state this was not the case in Serbia. In Croatia, the number of respondents who felt Yugoslav has gone down since independence far more than in any other state; probably a result of a massive public campaign to discredit continued identification with the former state.
The idea of mission inFinnish clericalLutheranism during theContinuationWar 1941–1944
Authors: Tilli Jouni
Published: September 2014

On 25June 1941Finland embarked on a war against theSovietUnion, as part ofGermany'sOperationBarbarossa. The war that was about to begin could be considered acceptable and even advantageous politically. However, theologically this was not necessarily the case. The topic of the article is how the war between the states ofFinland and theSovietUnion could be justified publicly in relation to a religion whose core message is not to kill, to turn the other cheek to – and even love – the enemy. Due to the close and long‐lasting relationship between the state, the army and the established church, Lutheran priests had a significant role in the war effort. The analysis shows that the answer provided byFinnishLutheran priests to the question drew significantly upon two versions of missionary thought, the national mission and the world‐historical one. The empirical material consists of articles, speeches, sermons and statements.
The three spheres. A theoretical model of mass nationalisation: the case of Spain
Authors: Quiroga Alejandro
Published: September 2014

This article sets out a theoretical model of the processes of mass nationalisation. The paper is divided into three sections. The first part shows nationalisation as a process of identity transmission that includes messages (national narratives), channels (national agencies) and recipients (national individuals). The second section analyses the processes of identity transmission into three spheres of nationalisation: the official public sphere, the non‐official public sphere and the private sphere. The last part looks at the process of mass nationalisation from below and reflects on the mechanisms of individual acquisition and reproduction of national identities on a daily basis. The general model of nationalisation presented here is developed in a deductive way and is applicable to a number of countries all over the world. In this article, I illustrate the general model by giving examples of mass nationalisations in Spain over the last two centuries.
Contextual effects on subjective national identity
Authors: Barceló Joan
Published: September 2014

Does the interaction between context and individual‐level features affect political attitudes? By using the case of Catalonia, a receiver region of international and national immigration since the fifties, this paper intersects a classic acculturation model and a newly reemerging literature in political science on contextual determinants of political behaviour to analyze how context affects subjective national identity. Results reveal that environment matters. The Percentage of Spain‐born population in the municipality is statistically significant to account for variance in the subjective national identity, even after controlling for age, sex, origin, language and left–right orientation and other contextual factors. This conclusion suggests that researchers should not underestimate the direct effect of the environment on feelings of belonging in contexts of rival identities.
Romanticism, music, nationalism
Authors: Leerssen Joep
Published: September 2014

In manifold ways, the stylistic and performative features and evolving genre conventions of nineteenth‐century ‘classical’ music reflect the increasing grip of nationalism on cultural attitudes in Europe. Conversely, music could become an important medium for the expression and dissemination of nationalist ideals. A cross‐national, European‐wide survey of this interpenetration between musical and ideological developments is applied towards a tentative typological outline of ‘musical nationalism’.
The Story of Koula: music and nationhood in Greece
Authors: Samson Jim
Published: September 2014

The Story of Koula, one of the Marshall Plan films, was made in Greece in 1951. It neatly exemplifies the capacity of Europe to ‘talk back’ to the USA within the framework of cultural aid programmes. And as such it can introduce a little‐explored topic: the politics of the avant‐garde in Greece in the post‐Civil War years and in particular the role of US cultural aid. This post‐war perspective throws light on the better‐known National School associated above all with Manolis Kalomiris, who dominated Greek music and musical life in the interwar period. The second part of this paper scrutinises the agenda and achievements of the Kalomiris circle, and that in turn enables useful generalisations about romantic nationalism in music. The third part of the paper reflects on the pre‐World War I achievements of Heptanesian traditions, again caught between singularities and dependencies.
Validating biomarkers of treatable mechanisms in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Camilleri M. , Shin A. , Busciglio I. , Carlson P. , Acosta A. , Bharucha A. E. , Burton D. , Lamsam J. , Lueke A. , Donato L. J. , Zinsmeister A. R.
Published: September 2014

Background

A valid biomarker is ‘an indicator of normal biologic or pathogenic processes, or pharmacological responses to a therapeutic intervention’. There is no validated biomarker for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The aim of the study was to assess ability of three quantitative traits to identify treatable processes to discriminate between IBS‐diarrhea (IBS‐D) patients, IBS‐constipation (IBS‐C) patients and healthy volunteers (HV).

Methods

In 30 HV, 30 IBS‐C patients and 64 IBS‐D patients, we characterized bowel symptoms and quantitated pathophysiological mechanisms: bile acid (BA) synthesis (serum C4 and FGF19), fecal BA and fat, colonic transit (CT), and intestinal permeability (IP). We used multiple logistic regression and receiver‐operating characteristic (ROCAUC) to appraise three factors (fecal BA, CT, and IP) individually and in combination to identify discriminant targets for treatment in IBS.

Key Results

There were significant associations between the three subgroups and symptoms reflecting bowel function and the quantitative traits. There were significant associations between fecal BA and CT at 48 h (r = 0.43; p < 0.001) and between fecal BA and IP (r = 0.23; p = 0.015). Individually, fecal BA and CT48 (but not IP) were significant independent predictors for distinguishing HV from IBS. In combination, they discriminated HV from IBS‐D patients (ROCAUC 0.70), HV from IBS‐C patients (ROCAUC 0.73), and IBS‐C patients from IBS‐D patients (ROCAUC 0.86). Colonic transit and fecal BA excretion together discriminate between healthy volunteers and IBS‐C patients or IBS‐D patients, or between the IBS subgroups with 75–90% specificity at 60% sensitivity.

Conclusions & Inferences

Colonic transit and fecal BA individually and together constitute useful biomarkers to identify treatable mechanisms in IBS and to differentiate subgroups of IBS.
Increased Long‐Term Mortality in Patients with Cardiovascular Implantable Electronic Device Infections
Authors: RIZWAN SOHAIL MUHAMMAD , HENRIKSON CHARLES A. , JO BRAID‐FORBES MARY , FORBES KEVIN F. , LERNER DANIEL J.
Published: September 2014

Background

Device infection is associated with increased mortality in patients receiving cardiovascular implantable electronic device (CIED) therapy. However, long‐term mortality associated with CIED infections has not been systematically analyzed in larger studies. This study sought to determine the long‐term mortality associated with CIED infection in a large cohort of Medicare beneficiaries.

Methods

We used a retrospective study design to analyze 3‐year mortality in 200,219 Medicare fee‐for‐service patients admitted for CIED generator implantation, replacement, or revision between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007. Multivariate analysis adjusting for age, sex, race, and 28 comorbidities was performed to determine the relative risk (RR) of death in the 12 quarters following CIED infection.

Results

Patients with CIED infection, compared to device recipients without infection, had increased mortality that persisted for at least 3 years after the admission quarter for all device types: pacemakers (PMs: 53.8% vs 33%; P < 0.001), implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD: 47.7% vs 31.6%; P < 0.001), and cardiac resynchronization therapy‐defibrillator (CRT‐D: 50.8% vs 36.5%; P < 0.001). After adjusting for patient demographics and comorbidities, significantly increased RR of death following CIED infection persisted for at least 3 years following PM infection, and for at least 2 years with single‐ and dual‐chamber ICD infection.

Conclusions

CIED recipients who develop device infection have increased, device‐dependent, long‐term mortality even after successful treatment of infection. The etiology of this persistent increased risk of death associated with CIED infection is unknown and merits further investigation.
PUBLIC VALUE AND POLITICAL ASTUTENESS IN THE WORK OF PUBLIC MANAGERS: THE ART OF THE POSSIBLE
Authors: HARTLEY JEAN , ALFORD JOHN , HUGHES OWEN , YATES SOPHIE
Published: September 2014

The public value framework, with its call for more entrepreneurial activities by public managers, has attracted concern and criticism about its implicit breaching of the politics/administration dichotomy. This article explores the role of political astuteness not only in discerning and creating public value, but also in enabling public managers to be sensitive to the dichotomy. We employ a conceptual framework to identify the skills of political astuteness, and then articulate these in relation to identifying and generating public value. Drawing on a survey of 1,012 public managers in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK, and in‐depth interviews with 42 of them, we examine the perceptions and capabilities of public managers in producing value for the public while traversing the line (or zone) between politics and administration. We conclude that political astuteness is essential to both creating value and maintaining allegiance to democratic principles.
Hybrid dwarfness in crosses between wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rye (Secale cereale L.): a new look at an old phenomenon
Authors: Tikhenko N. , Rutten T. , Tsvetkova N. , Voylokov A. , Börner A.
Published: September 2014

The existence of hybrid dwarfs from intraspecific crosses in wheat (Triticum aestivum) was described 100 years ago, and the genetics underlying hybrid dwarfness are well understood. In this study, we report a dwarf phenotype in interspecific hybrids between wheat and rye (Secale cereale). We identified two rye lines that produce hybrid dwarfs with wheat and have none of the hitherto known hybrid dwarfing genes. Genetic analyses revealed that both rye lines carry a single allelic gene responsible for the dwarf phenotype. This gene was designated Hdw‐R1 (Hybrid dwarf‐R1). Application of gibberellic acid (GA3) to both intraspecific (wheat–wheat) and interspecific (wheat–rye) hybrids showed that hybrid dwarfness cannot be overcome by treatment with this phytohormone. Histological analysis of shoot apices showed that wheat–rye hybrids with the dwarf phenotype at 21 and 45 days after germination failed to develop further. Shoot apices of dwarf plants did not elongate, did not form new primordia and had a dome‐shaped appearance in the seed. The possible relationship between hybrid dwarfness and the genes responsible for the transition from vegetative to generative growth stage is discussed.
Xenia and metaxenia in grapes: differences in berry and seed characteristics of maternal grape cv. ‘Narince’ (Vitis viniferaL.) as influenced by different pollen sources
Authors: Sabir A.
Published: September 2014

Literature investigations indicate that the grapes have quite complex fertilisation biology. This complexity necessitates extensive investigations to obtain reliable knowledge for both well‐organised hybridisation studies and maximising grape yield. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the influences of self‐, free‐ and cross‐pollination on berry and seed characteristics in grape. Five different pollination treatments were applied to ‘Narince’, the most widely known and popular white wine grape in Turkey. Pollen tests indicated that all the cultivars had satisfactoryin vitropollen viability percentages. Free‐pollination produced a significantly higher percentage berry set. Among the pollinizers, the use of pollen of ‘Thompson Seedless’ and ‘Cardinal’ varieties resulted in higher berry set percentage in ‘Narince’. The free‐pollination was also superior in giving the highest weight, length and width of the berry, as well as number of seeds per berry. These findings revealed that there were strong xenial and metaxenial effects in the studied grape cultivars. Among the pollinizer cultivars, the most effective pollinator was ‘Thompson Seedless’. Hence, for better berry set and quality, the use of ‘Thompson Seedless’ as a pollinizer may be an attractive option in both grape production and breeding studies.
The affect heuristic, mortality salience, and risk: Domain‐specific effects of a natural disaster on risk‐benefit perception
Authors: Västfjäll Daniel , Peters Ellen , Slovic Paul
Published: September 2014

We examine how affect and accessible thoughts following a major natural disaster influence everyday risk perception. A survey was conducted in the months following the 2004 south Asian Tsunami in a representative sample of the Swedish population (N = 733). Respondents rated their experienced affect as well as the perceived risk and benefits of various everyday decision domains. Affect influenced risk and benefit perception in a way that could be predicted from both the affect‐congruency and affect heuristic literatures (increased risk perception and stronger risk‐benefit correlations). However, in some decision domains, self‐regulation goals primed by the natural disaster predicted risk and benefit ratings. Together, these results show that affect, accessible thoughts and motivational states influence perceptions of risks and benefits.
Impact of systematic HIV testing on case finding and retention in care at a primary care clinic in South Africa
Authors: Clouse Kate , Hanrahan Colleen F. , Bassett Jean , Fox Matthew P. , Sanne Ian , Van Rie Annelies
Published: September 2014

Objective

Systematic, opt‐out HIV counselling and testing (HCT) may diagnose individuals at lower levels of immunodeficiency but may impact loss to follow‐up (LTFU) if healthier people are less motivated to engage and remain in HIV care. We explored LTFU and patient clinical outcomes under two different HIV testing strategies.

Methods

We compared patient characteristics and retention in care between adults newly diagnosed with HIV by either voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) plus targeted provider‐initiated counselling and testing (PITC) or systematic HCT at a primary care clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Results

One thousand one hundred and forty‐four adults were newly diagnosed by VCT/PITC and 1124 by systematic HCT. Two‐thirds of diagnoses were in women. Median CD4 count at HIV diagnosis (251 vs. 264 cells/μl, P = 0.19) and proportion of individuals eligible for antiretroviral therapy (ART) (67.2% vs. 66.7%, P = 0.80) did not differ by HCT strategy. Within 1 year of HIV diagnosis, half were LTFU: 50.5% under VCT/PITC and 49.6% under systematic HCT (P = 0.64). The overall hazard of LTFU was not affected by testing policy (aHR 0.98, 95%CI: 0.87–1.10). Independent of HCT strategy, males, younger adults and those ineligible for ART were at higher risk of LTFU.

Conclusions

Implementation of systematic HCT did not increase baseline CD4 count. Overall retention in the first year after HIV diagnosis was low (37.9%), especially among those ineligible for ART, but did not differ by testing strategy. Expansion of HIV testing should coincide with effective strategies to increase retention in care, especially among those not yet eligible for ART at initial diagnosis.
Socio‐economic and environmental effects influencing the development of leprosy in Bahia, north‐eastern Brazil
Authors: Cabral‐Miranda William , Chiaravalloti Neto Francisco , Barrozo Ligia V.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To investigate spatial clusters and possible associations between relative risks of leprosy with socio‐economic and environmental factors, taking into account diagnosed cases in children under 15 years old.

Methods

An ecological study was conceived using data aggregated by municipality to identify possible spatial clusters of leprosy from 2005 to 2011. Relative risks were calculated accounting for the respective covariate gender. The second stage of the analysis consisted of verifying possible associations between the relative risks of leprosy as a dependent variable, and socio‐economic and environmental variables as independent. This was performed using a multivariate regression analysis according to a previously defined conceptual framework.

Results

Overall rates have decreased from 0.88/10 000 in 2005 to 0.52 in 2011. Spatial scan statistics identified 4 high‐risk and 6 low‐risk clusters. In the regression model, after allowing for spatial dependence, relative risks were associated with higher percentage of water bodies, higher Gini index, higher percentage of urban population, larger average number of dwellers by permanent residence and smaller percentage of residents born in Bahia.

Conclusions

Although relative risks of leprosy in Bahia have been decreasing, they remain very high. The association between relative risks of leprosy and water bodies in the proposed geographic scale indicates that hypothesis linkingM. lepraeand humid environments cannot be discarded. Socio‐economic conditions such as inequality, a greater number of dwellers by residence and migration are derived from the urbanisation process carried out in this State. Precarious settlements and poor living conditions in the cities would favour the continuity of leprosy transmission.
Serum insulin‐like growth factor 1 in the aging horse
Authors: Lygren Tone , Hansen Sanni , Langberg Henning , Fjeldborg Julie , Jacobsen Stine , Nielsen Mette O. , Schjerling Peter , Markussen Bo , Thomsen Preben D. , Berg Lise C.
Published: September 2014

Background

Insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) has important roles in anabolic processes in the musculoskeletal system and has been reported to decrease with age in both people and horses.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine serum IGF‐1 levels in the aging horse from early to late adulthood (age range 5–27 years).

Methods

Healthy horses (n = 72) were used in a cross‐sectional study, while 37 paired serum samples were available for a longitudinal study. Serum IGF‐1 protein was determined using an ELISA kit validated for use in equine samples.

Results

No association was found between serum IGF‐1 levels and age in the cross‐sectional study. In the longitudinal study, a latent variable model fitted to the data revealed that horses in general experienced a 5.2% increase of serum IGF‐1 levels over a 5‐year period, but horses crossing a change point around 9 years of age between the 2 samples experienced an 11.0% decrease.

Conclusions

In this study, there was no evidence for aging being a factor in changes of IGF‐1 levels in an adult and old horse population.
Tracking Multiple Ground Targets in Urban Environments Using Cooperating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Shaferman Vitaly , Shima Tal
Published: September 2014

A distributed approach is proposed for planning a cooperative tracking task for a team of heterogeneous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) tracking multiple predictable ground targets in a known urban environment. The solution methodology involves finding visibility regions, from which the UAV can maintain line-of-sight to each target during the scenario, and restricted regions, in which a UAV cannot fly, due to the presence of buildings or other airspace limitations. These regions are then used to pose a combined task assignment and motion planning optimization problem, in which each UAV's cost function is associated with its location relative to the visibility and restricted regions, and the tracking performance of the other UAVs in the team. A distributed co-evolution genetic algorithm (CEGA) is derived for solving the optimization problem. The proposed solution is scalable, robust, and computationally parsimonious. The algorithm is centralized, implementing a distributed computation approach; thus, global information is used and the computational workload is divided between the team members. This enables the execution of the algorithm in relatively large teams of UAVs servicing a large number of targets. The viability of the algorithm is demonstrated in a Monte Carlo study, using a high fidelity simulation test-bed incorporating a visual database of an actual city.
Torsional Dynamic Response of a Shaft With Longitudinal and Circumferential Cracks
Authors: Abdi H. , Nayeb-Hashemi H. , Hamouda A. M. S. , Vaziri A.
Published: September 2014

Turbo generator shafts are often subjected to cyclic torsion resulting in formation of large longitudinal cracks as well as circumferential cracks. The presence of these cracks could greatly impact the shaft resonance frequencies. In this paper, dynamic response of a shaft with longitudinal and circumferential cracks is investigated through a comprehensive analytical study. The longitudinally cracked section of the shaft was modeled as an uncracked shaft with reduced torsional rigidity. Torsional rigidity correction factor (i.e., the ratio of torsional rigidity of the cracked shaft to that of the uncracked shaft) was obtained from finite element analysis and was shown to be only a function of crack depth to the shaft radius. The resonance frequency and frictional energy loss of a shaft with a longitudinal crack were found little affected by the presence of the crack as long as the crack depth was less than 20% of the shaft radius even if the entire shaft is cracked longitudinally. Moreover, we showed that the longitudinal crack location could be more conveniently identified by monitoring the slope of the torsional response along the shaft. The circumferential crack was modeled as a torsional spring with a torsional damping. The torsion spring and damping constants were obtained using fracture mechanics. For a shaft with both a longitudinal crack and a circumferential crack, the resonance frequency was governed by the longitudinal crack when the circumferential crack depth was less than 30% of the shaft radius.
Numerical Analysis of Fatigue Life Improvement by Optimizing the Startup Phase for a 1000 MW Supercritical Steam Turbine Inner Casing
Authors: Wang Weizhe
Published: September 2014

The fatigue behavior of a specific inner casing of a 1000 MW supercritical steam turbine was investigated during a complete startup phase. The Ramberg–Osgood model and Manson–Coffin strain-life law were used to describe the stress–strain behavior and calculate the damage. The temperature variation during the startup phase revealed that the startup phase could be divided into a warming-up phase, transition phase, and elevated temperature phase. The thermal stress that dominated in the inner casing could also be divided into the same three phases. The damage caused by the alternating stress during the warming-up phase was around 70% of the total damage. The remaining 30% of the damage was contributed by the transition and elevated temperature phases. The fatigue life was improved by shortening the warming-up phase and extending the elevated temperature phase. The damage was reduced by approximately 20%.
Modified Modal Domain Analysis of a Bladed Rotor Using Coordinate Measurement Machine Data on Geometric Mistuning
Authors: Vishwakarma Vinod , Sinha Alok , Bhartiya Yasharth , Brown Jeffery M.
Published: September 2014

Modified modal domain analysis (MMDA), a reduced order modeling technique, is applied to a geometrically mistuned integrally bladed rotor to obtain its natural frequencies, mode shapes, and forced response. The geometric mistuning of blades is described in terms of proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) of the coordinate measurement machine (CMM) data. Results from MMDA are compared to those from the full (360 deg) rotor Ansys model. It is found that the MMDA can accurately predict natural frequencies, mode shapes, and forced response. The effects of the number of POD features and the number of tuned modes used as bases for model reduction are examined. Results from frequency mistuning approaches, fundamental mistuning model (FMM) and subset of nominal modes (SNM), are also generated and compared to those from full (360 deg) rotor Ansys model. It is clearly seen that FMM and SNM are unable to yield accurate results whereas MMDA yields highly accurate results.
Experimental Studies of High Efficiency Combustion With Fumigation of Dimethyl Ether and Propane Into Diesel Engine Intake Air
Authors: Prabhakar Bhaskar , Jayaraman Srinivas , Vander Wal Randy , Boehman André
Published: September 2014

This work explores the role of the ignition quality of a fumigated fuel on combustion phasing and brake thermal efficiency (BTE), which was investigated in a 2.5 l turbocharged common rail light-duty diesel engine. Different combinations of dimethyl ether (DME) and propane were fumigated into the intake air and displaced some of the directly injected ultralow sulfur diesel fuel (ULSD) needed to maintain the engine and a constant speed and load. Fumigation of DME and propane significantly increased BTE and reduced brake specific energy consumption (BSEC) compared to the baseline diesel condition with no fumigation. A mixture of 20% DME with 30% propane provided the maximum BTE, with 24% reduction in BSEC, however, at the expense of increasing peak cylinder pressure by 6 bar, which was even higher at greater DME substitutions. Fumigated DME auto-ignited early, ahead of top dead center (TDC), showing the typical low temperature heat release (LTHR) and high temperature heat release (HTHR) events and propane addition suppressed the early LTHR, shifting more of the DME heat release closer to TDC. Total hydrocarbon (THC) emissions increased, while NOx emissions reduced with increasing fumigation.
Experimental and Numerical Studies of Ratcheting in a Pressurized Piping System Under Seismic Load
Authors: Ravikiran A. , Dubey P. N. , Agrawal M. K. , Reddy G. R. , Singh R. K. , Vaze K. K.
Published: September 2014

Rational seismic design procedures necessitate comprehensive evaluation of nuclear piping systems under large amplitude seismic loads. This comprehensive assessment requires accurate prediction of inelastic response of piping system till failure to ensure adequate margins for unexpected beyond design basis events. The present paper describes the details of experimental and numerical studies of inelastic response of pressurized piping system under seismic loading. Shake table test has been carried out on a three-dimensional stainless steel piping system under internal pressure and seismic load. The amplitude of base excitation has been increased till failure of the piping system. The tested piping system has been analyzed using iterative response spectrum (IRS) method for various levels of excitation. The comparison of numerical and experimental results is given in the paper.
Optimization of Scan Strategies in Selective Laser Melting of Aluminum Parts With Downfacing Areas
Authors: Mertens Raya , Clijsters Stijn , Kempen Karolien , Kruth Jean-Pierre
Published: September 2014

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing technique in which metal products are manufactured in a layer-by-layer manner. One of the main advantages of SLM is the large geometrical design freedom. Because of the layered build, parts with inner cavities can be produced. However, complex structures, such as downfacing areas, influence the process behavior significantly. The downfacing areas can be either horizontal or inclined structures. The first part of this work describes the process parameter optimization for noncomplex, upfacing structures to obtain relative densities above 99%. In the second part of this research, parameters are optimized for downfacing areas, both horizontal and inclined. The experimental results are compared to simulations of a thermal model, which calculates the melt pool dimensions based on the material properties (such as thermal conductivity) and process parameters (such as laser power and scan speed). The simulations show a great similarity between the thermal model and the actual process.
Responsiveness to Change of Self-Report and Device-Based Physical Activity Measures in the Living Well With Diabetes Trial
Authors: Lee Winnie Y.H. , Clark Bronwyn K. , Winkler Elisabeth , Eakin Elizabeth G. , Reeves Marina M.
Published: September 2014

Background:

This study evaluated the responsiveness to change in physical activity of 2 self-report measures and an accelerometer in the context of a weight loss intervention trial.

Methods:

302 participants (aged 20 to 75 years) with type 2 diabetes were randomized into telephone counseling (n = 151) or usual care (n = 151) groups. Physical activity (minutes/week) was assessed at baseline and 6-months using the Active Australia Survey (AAS), the United States National Health Interview Survey (USNHIS) walking for exercise items, and accelerometer (Actigraph GT1M; ≥1952 counts/minute). Responsiveness to change was calculated as responsiveness index (RI), Cohen’s d (postscores) and Cohen’s d (change-scores).

Results:

All instruments showed significant improvement in the intervention group (P < .001) and no significant change for usual care (P > .05). Accelerometer consistently ranked as the most responsive instrument while the least responsive was the USHNIS (responsiveness index) or AAS (Cohen’s d). RIs for AAS, USNHIS and accelerometer did not differ significantly and were, respectively: 0.45 (95% CI: 0.26–0.65); 0.38 (95% CI: 0.20–0.56); and, 0.49 (95% CI: 0.23–0.74).

Conclusions:

Accelerometer tended to have the highest responsiveness but differences were small and not statistically significant. Consideration of factors, such as validity, feasibility and cost, in addition to responsiveness, is important for instrument selection in future trials
Moderators of the Relationship Between Physical Activity Enjoyment and Physical Activity in Children
Authors: Remmers Teun , Sleddens Ester F.C. , Kremers Stef P.J. , Thijs Carel
Published: September 2014

Background:

Physical activity (PA) enjoyment may be an important determinant of long-term habitual, self-sustained PA behavior in children. The objective of the current study was to contribute toward a better understanding of how children’s PA enjoyment is associated with PA behavior by examining the influence of age, gender, BMI, and impulsivity as theoretically hypothesized moderators of this relationship.

Methods:

PA was measured in 171 children (77 boys, 91 girls) using accelerometers, and PA enjoyment was assessed with the validated Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale in 9-year-old children from the KOALA Birth Cohort Study, the Netherlands. Linear regressions were fitted. Moderation was tested by adding interaction terms between PA enjoyment and the potential moderators.

Results:

We found a significant 3-way interaction (PA enjoyment × gender × impulsivity) for all intensities of PA behavior. In boys, impulsivity strengthened the relationship between PA enjoyment and PA behavior, whereas in girls impulsivity weakened this relationship.

Conclusion:

In girls, this may be explained by the relative automatic occurrence of PA behavior in impulsive girls (independent of PA enjoyment). In boys, the possibility that impulsivity is associated with hyperactivity may explain this moderation. The current study may encourage researchers to investigate these interactions in future studies.
Reliability of the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence in 2 Diverse Samples of Young Children
Authors: Barnett Lisa M. , Robinson Leah E. , Webster E. Kipling , Ridgers Nicola D.
Published: September 2014

Background:

The purpose was to determine the reliability of an instrument designed to assess young children’s perceived movement skill competence in 2 diverse samples.

Methods:

A pictorial instrument assessed 12 perceived Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) based on the Test of Gross Motor Development 2nd edition. Intra-Class Correlations (ICC) and internal consistency analyses were conducted. Paired sample t tests assessed change in mean perceived skill scores. Bivariate correlations between the intertrial difference and the mean of the trials explored proportional bias.

Results:

Sample 1 (S1) were culturally diverse Australian children (n = 111; 52% boys) aged 5 to 8 years (mean = 6.4, SD = 1.0) with educated parents. Sample 2 (S2) were racially diverse and socioeconomically disadvantaged American children (n = 110; 57% boys) aged 5 to 10 years (mean = 6.8, SD = 1.1). For all children, the internal consistency for 12 FMS was acceptable (S1 = 0.72, 0.75, S2 = 0.66, 0.67). ICCs were higher in S1 (0.73) than S2 (0.50). Mean changes between trials were small. There was little evidence of proportional bias.

Conclusion:

Lower values in S2 may be due to differences in study demographic and execution. While the instrument demonstrated reliability/internal consistency, further work is recommended in diverse samples.
Serotonin syndrome following levodopa treatment in diffuse Lewy body disease
Authors: Kushwaha Suman , Panda Akhila Kumar , Malhotra Hardeep Singh , Kaur Manmeet
Published: September 2014

Serotonin syndrome results from an acute hyperserotonergic state. It is a rare and potentially fatal complication of drugs that affect the central nervous system serotonin levels. It is characterised by a triad of clinical features comprising altered sensorium, autonomic instability and neuromuscular hyperexcitability, in different combinations. We present an atypical case of serotonin syndrome related to levodopa use in a patient of probable Lewy body dementia. This case highlights the difficulty in diagnosis and management of cases with serotonin syndrome in the absence of history of a known serotonergic drug and the fact that levodopa can contribute to its occurrence.
Fructose-1,6-diphosphatase deficiency: a treatable neurometabolic disorder
Authors: Kamate Mahesh , Jambagi Milind , Gowda Prashanth , Sonoli Smita
Published: September 2014

Fructose-1,6-diphosphatase (FDPase) deficiency is usually considered an inborn error of fructose metabolism, however, strictly speaking it is a defect of gluconeogenesis. The disorder is manifested by the appearance of hypoglycaemia, ketosis and lactic acidosis (neonatally or later during fasting or induced by fructose) and may also be life-threatening. FDPase deficiency can be suspected using simple bedside tests such as glucometer random blood sugar, Benedict's test, Rothera's test and Seliwanoff's test. We report our experience with two cases of FDPase deficiency and review the relevant literature. We also describe the fructosuria in these cases during the crises period, which has not been stressed in the literature.
Bone formation within a breast abscess
Authors: Mannu Gurdeep Singh , Ahmed Farid , Cunnick Giles , Mungalsingh Naren
Published: September 2014

We present a rare case of osseous metaplasia in a poorly healing breast abscess. An 87-year-old woman was referred to the breast surgery clinic with a painful lump in her right breast. Initial imaging and core biopsy suggested a breast abscess. Despite several courses of antibiotics and repeated attempts at aspiration the painful lesion persisted. It was eventually surgically excised in its entirety and final histopathology showed the presence of bone formation within the abscess. The patient's symptoms subsequently resolved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case in the literature, of osseous metaplasia within a breast abscess in the absence of malignancy.
Mycotic aneurysm caused byBurkholderia pseudomalleiin a previously healthy returning traveller
Authors: Bodilsen Jacob , Vammen Sten , Fuursted Kurt , Hjort Ulla
Published: September 2014

Burkholderia pseudomalleiis a common cause of serious, difficult to treat infections in South-East Asia and Northern Australia, but is a rare imported pathogen in the USA and Europe. We report a case of a patient with a mycotic aneurysm caused byB. pseudomalleiin a previously healthy returning traveller. The patient presented with 4 weeks of abdominal pain and intermittent fever after a brief vacation in Thailand. The aneurysm was excised and replaced by an autologous deep vein graft, and the patient was treated for 6 months with antibiotics adjusted according to postoperative renal impairment. Twenty-four months after surgery the patient is well and without relapse.
Sacroilitis: an unusual cause for a common presentation
Authors: Shaikh Maliha , Tahir Hasan
Published: September 2014

Inflammatory arthritis and sacroilitis are common presentations to rheumatology clinics. Owing to the physiological changes of pregnancy, the first presentation can be post partum with back pain and an accompanying oligoarthritis or polyarthritis. We present a woman with lower back pain who demonstrated clinical and radiological features consistent with sacroilitis and an inflammatory arthritis but was found to have an unusual presentation of another common cause of arthritis.
Reverse intestinal rotation: a rare case of volvulus around a vitelline duct remnant
Authors: Dreyer Stephan , Kaczynski Jakub , Hrobar Petr , Collins Patrick
Published: September 2014

We present a rare case of reverse intestinal rotation with volvulus around a Meckel's diverticulum attached to a vitelline duct remnant. The diagnosis was established by CT. The patient was treated with exploratory laparotomy and small bowel resection. The patient made a full recovery and was discharged home on the seventh postoperative day.
Multiple vitamin deficiencies in a patient with a history of chronic alcohol excess and self-neglect in the UK
Authors: Dickson Jon Mark , Naylor Greg , Colver Graham , J Powers Hilary , Masters Paul
Published: September 2014

We report a case of inadequate diet (caused by extreme self-neglect and alcohol excess) which led to chronic severe deficiencies of vitamins A, D and E. At presentation the patient had widespread follicular hyperkeratosis of the skin, keratomalacia of both eyes and a severe cognitive impairment. He responded well to treatment including high dose parenteral vitamins, but lasting impairments in his vision and cognition have caused permanent disability.
Malignant transformation of hepatocellular adenoma over a decade
Authors: Tokoro Takamasa , Kato Yutaro , Sugioka Atsushi , Mizoguchi Yoshikazu
Published: September 2014

A 72-year-old man diagnosed with a benign hepatocellular lesion 11 years prior was referred to our hospital for an outgrowth of the tumour in liver segment 7. Extended segmentectomy was performed and the patient's postoperative course was uneventful with no recurrence for 2 years. Histopathological examination confirmed a highly differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) coexisting with the hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), and it was suspected to have originated from the HCA. The findings from this case demonstrate that CT can be useful for detecting the transformation of HCA into HCC.
Drug-mediated rash: erythema multiforme versus Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Authors: Hidajat Cassandra , Loi Duncan
Published: September 2014

A 92-year-old woman presented with an acute onset generalised maculopapular rash with associated mucosal involvement, on a background of recent start of griseofulvin. The rash progressed rapidly over 2 days to involve most of her body, however, mucosal involvement was limited to her oral mucosa. Characteristic target lesions appeared at 72 h, and a diagnosis of erythema multiforme secondary to griseofulvin was made after further investigation and skin biopsy. The patient was monitored closely for progression of the rash and other indicators of more severe dermatological conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome. She was managed symptomatically, with resolution of the rash in 4 weeks and full recovery to her premorbid level of functioning. This case details the diagnostic and management approach to erythema multiforme, a condition that warrants thorough consideration for the differential of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Acute coronary artery thrombosis and vasospasm following capecitabine in conjunction with oxaliplatin treatment for cancer
Authors: a Dzaye Omar Dildar , Cleator Suzy , Nihoyannopoulos Petros
Published: September 2014

Oral capecitabine is a prodrug of 5-fluorouracil that has been used into the management of multiple cancers because of the convenience of administration and efficacy at least comparable with 5-fluorouracil. While cardiac complications associated with the use of 5-fluorouracil are well-documented, capecitabine-induced acute coronary syndrome has rarely been reported and often attributed to coronary vasospasm. We report a patient presented with acute coronary syndrome secondary to thrombotic coronary occlusion following treatment with oral capecitabine and intravenous oxaliplatin after resection of non-metastatic, node positive colon carcinoma. Capecitabine may induce acute coronary thrombotic occlusion in addition to coronary vasospasm.
Osteoradionecrosis of the hyoid bone – a novel application of the Sonopet ultrasonic aspirator
Authors: Gill Amarbir Singh , Joshi Arjun S
Published: September 2014

A 66-year-old man with a history of squamous cell carcinoma of the right tonsil presented to the emergency department with two life-threatening episodes of haemoptysis 9 months after completion of chemoradiation. He was evaluated to rule out recurrent malignancy, and was determined to have osteoradionecrosis of his hyoid bone that had led to an oropharyngeal fistula. Given the proximity to branches of the external carotid, he was offered tracheostomy and resection of the protruding necrotic bone with ultrasonic bone aspirator, which was placed down the shaft of the laryngoscope to minimise damage to adjacent structures. He tolerated the procedure well with complete resolution of exposed bone on follow-up laryngoscopy.
Pulmonary actinomycosis and Hodgkin's disease: when FDG-PET may be misleading
Authors: Weisshaupt C , Hitz F , Albrich W C , Omlin A
Published: September 2014

We present a patient with advanced Hodgkin's disease treated with escalated BEACOPP chemotherapy. The result from the interim fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with CT (PET-CT) after two cycles of chemotherapy is crucial for treatment guidance for the clinical trial HD18 from the German Hodgkin Study Group. An increase in size and standard uptake value (SUV) of a pulmonary lesion suggesting refractory Hodgkin's disease was documented. Since all other manifestations of the lymphoma responded well to the treatment, the discordant behaviour was suspicious for another reason for this progressive pulmonary lesion. Bronchoscopy revealed Actinomyces species in cultures from bronchial washings. Specific treatment was initiated and consisted of 2 weeks of intravenous penicillin followed by ceftriaxone intravenous for another 4 weeks and subsequent oral amoxicillin to complete 12 months of antibiotic therapy. For the Hodgkin's lymphoma, complete remission was documented after a total of six cycles of escalated BEACOPP.
A pilot study to evaluate the feasibility of implementing a split-dose bowel preparation for inpatient colonoscopy: a single-center experience
Authors: Yang Dennis , Summerlee Robert , Rajca Brian , Williamson Jonathan B , LeLaurin Jennifer , McClellan Lasheaka , Collins Dennis , Sultan Shahnaz
Published: September 2014

Objectives

Feasibility of using split-dose bowel preparation in an inpatient setting has not been extensively studied. We conducted a single-centre multiphase study to (1) understand the perceived barriers to split-dose administration among nursing and providers, (2) develop and implement a split-dose electronic order set and (3) evaluate the use and impact of split-dose administration on 100 consecutive colonoscopies.

Methods

Nurse/provider interviews were conducted to understand perceived concerns and potential barriers to split-dose preparation. Next, an order set containing specific nursing instructions was developed, disseminated and implemented into the electronic health record as the default order set for inpatient colonoscopies. Finally, 100 consecutive inpatients undergoing colonoscopy were interviewed to determine prep consumption, tolerability and rate of procedural delays due to inadequate preparation.

Results

Survey results indicated perceived concerns about inpatients’ ability to tolerate and complete the preparation, insufficient nursing support and complexity of preparation administration. Based on this, prep orders were adjusted to accommodate nursing concerns prior to implementation. 54% of inpatients actually completed the bowel preparation in split doses (SPLIT group); the remainder had the conventional full dose preparation (NON-SPLIT). Less procedural delay and a lower rate of additional laxatives use (13% vs 30.4%) were seen in the SPLIT versus NON-SPLIT group. Split-dose preparation was well tolerated among inpatients.

Conclusions

Split-dose bowel preparation can be implemented for inpatients undergoing colonoscopy. This multiphase study demonstrates the steps used to implement split-dose preparation at our institution and may provide others with strategies that they could use at their institutions.