bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data-driven elastic models for cloth
Authors: Wang Huamin , O'Brien James F. , Ramamoorthi Ravi
Published: July 2011

Cloth often has complicated nonlinear, anisotropic elastic behavior due to its woven pattern and fiber properties. However, most current cloth simulation techniques simply use linear and isotropic elastic models with manually selected stiffness parameters. Such simple simulations do not allow differentiating the behavior of distinct cloth materials such as silk or denim, and they cannot model most materials with fidelity to their real-world counterparts. In this paper, we present a data-driven technique to more realistically animate cloth. We propose a piecewise linear elastic model that is a good approximation to nonlinear, anisotropic stretching and bending behaviors of various materials. We develop new measurement techniques for studying the elastic deformations for both stretching and bending in real cloth samples. Our setup is easy and inexpensive to construct, and the parameters of our model can be fit to observed data with a well-posed optimization procedure. We have measured a database of ten different cloth materials, each of which exhibits distinctive elastic behaviors. These measurements can be used in most cloth simulation systems to create natural and realistic clothing wrinkles and shapes, for a range of different materials.
Sparse meshless models of complex deformable solids
Authors: Faure François , Gilles Benjamin , Bousquet Guillaume , Pai Dinesh K.
Published: July 2011

A new method to simulate deformable objects with heterogeneous material properties and complex geometries is presented. Given a volumetric map of the material properties and an arbitrary number of control nodes, a distribution of the nodes is computed automatically, as well as the associated shape functions. Reference frames attached to the nodes are used to apply skeleton subspace deformation across the volume of the objects. A continuum mechanics formulation is derived from the displacements and the material properties. We introduce novel material-aware shape functions in place of the traditional radial basis functions used in meshless frameworks. In contrast with previous approaches, these allow coarse deformation functions to efficiently resolve non-uniform stiffnesses. Complex models can thus be simulated at high frame rates using a small number of control nodes.
Blended intrinsic maps
Authors: Kim Vladimir G. , Lipman Yaron , Funkhouser Thomas
Published: July 2011

This paper describes a fully automatic pipeline for finding an intrinsic map between two non-isometric, genus zero surfaces. Our approach is based on the observation that efficient methods exist to search for nearly isometric maps (e.g., Möbius Voting or Heat Kernel Maps), but no single solution found with these methods provides low-distortion everywhere for pairs of surfaces differing by large deformations. To address this problem, we suggest using a weighted combination of these maps to produce a "blended map." This approach enables algorithms that leverage efficient search procedures, yet can provide the flexibility to handle large deformations.

The main challenges of this approach lie in finding a set of candidate maps {
m

i

} and their associated blending weights {
b

i

(
p
)} for every point
p
on the surface. We address these challenges specifically for conformal maps by making the following contributions. First, we provide a way to blend maps, defining the image of
p
as the weighted geodesic centroid of
m

i

(
p
). Second, we provide a definition for smooth blending weights at every point
p
that are proportional to the area preservation of
m

i

at
p
. Third, we solve a global optimization problem that selects candidate maps based both on their area preservation and consistency with other selected maps. During experiments with these methods, we find that our algorithm produces blended maps that align semantic features better than alternative approaches over a variety of data sets.
Real-time Eulerian water simulation using a restricted tall cell grid
Authors: Chentanez Nuttapong , Müller Matthias
Published: July 2011

We present a new Eulerian fluid simulation method, which allows real-time simulations of large scale three dimensional liquids. Such scenarios have hitherto been restricted to the domain of off-line computation. To reduce computation time we use a hybrid grid representation composed of regular cubic cells on top of a layer of tall cells. With this layout water above an arbitrary terrain can be represented without consuming an excessive amount of memory and compute power, while focusing effort on the area near the surface where it most matters. Additionally, we optimized the grid representation for a GPU implementation of the fluid solver. To further accelerate the simulation, we introduce a specialized multi-grid algorithm for solving the Poisson equation and propose solver modifications to keep the simulation stable for large time steps. We demonstrate the efficiency of our approach in several real-world scenarios, all running above 30 frames per second on a modern GPU. Some scenes include additional features such as two-way rigid body coupling as well as particle representations of sub-grid detail.
Computational stereo camera system with programmable control loop
Authors: Heinzle Simon , Greisen Pierre , Gallup David , Chen Christine , Saner Daniel , Smolic Aljoscha , Burg Andreas , Matusik Wojciech , Gross Markus
Published: July 2011

Stereoscopic 3D has gained significant importance in the entertainment industry. However, production of high quality stereoscopic content is still a challenging art that requires mastering the complex interplay of human perception, 3D display properties, and artistic intent. In this paper, we present a computational stereo camera system that closes the control loop from capture and analysis to automatic adjustment of physical parameters. Intuitive interaction metaphors are developed that replace cumbersome handling of rig parameters using a touch screen interface with 3D visualization. Our system is designed to make stereoscopic 3D production as easy, intuitive, flexible, and reliable as possible. Captured signals are processed and analyzed in real-time on a stream processor. Stereoscopy and user settings define programmable control functionalities, which are executed in real-time on a control processor. Computational power and flexibility is enabled by a dedicated software and hardware architecture. We show that even traditionally difficult shots can be easily captured using our system.
A perceptual model for disparity
Authors: Didyk Piotr , Ritschel Tobias , Eisemann Elmar , Myszkowski Karol , Seidel Hans-Peter
Published: July 2011

Binocular disparity is an important cue for the human visual system to recognize spatial layout, both in reality and simulated virtual worlds. This paper introduces a perceptual model of disparity for computer graphics that is used to define a metric to compare a stereo image to an alternative stereo image and to estimate the magnitude of the perceived disparity change. Our model can be used to assess the effect of disparity to control the level of undesirable distortions or enhancements (introduced on purpose). A number of psycho-visual experiments are conducted to quantify the mutual effect of disparity magnitude and frequency to derive the model. Besides difference prediction, other applications include compression, and re-targeting. We also present novel applications in form of hybrid stereo images and backward-compatible stereo. The latter minimizes disparity in order to convey a stereo impression if special equipment is used but produces images that appear almost ordinary to the naked eye. The validity of our model and difference metric is again confirmed in a study.
Making burr puzzles from 3D models
Authors: Xin Shiqing , Lai Chi-Fu , Fu Chi-Wing , Wong Tien-Tsin , He Ying , Cohen-Or Daniel
Published: July 2011

A 3D burr puzzle is a 3D model that consists of interlocking pieces with a single-key property. That is, when the puzzle is assembled, all the pieces are notched except one single key component which remains mobile. The intriguing property of the assembled burr puzzle is that it is stable, perfectly interlocked, without glue or screws, etc. Moreover, a burr puzzle consisting of a small number of pieces is still rather difficult to solve since the assembly must follow certain orders while the combinatorial complexity of the puzzle's piece arrangements is extremely high.

In this paper, we generalize the 6-piece orthogonal burr puzzle (a knot) to design and model burr puzzles from 3D models. Given a 3D input model, we first interactively embed a network of knots into the 3D shape. Our method automatically optimizes and arranges the orientation of each knot, and modifies pieces of adjacent knots with an appropriate connection type. Then, following the geometry of the embedded pieces, the entire 3D model is partitioned by splitting the solid while respecting the assembly motion of embedded pieces. The main technical challenge is to enforce the single-key property and ensure the assembly/disassembly remains feasible, as the puzzle pieces in a network of knots are highly interlocked. Lastly, we also present an automated approach to generate the visualizations of the puzzle assembly process.
Digital micrography
Authors: Maharik Ron , Bessmeltsev Mikhail , Sheffer Alla , Shamir Ariel , Carr Nathan
Published: July 2011

We present an algorithm for creating digital micrography images, or
micrograms
, a special type of calligrams created from minuscule text. These attractive text-art works successfully combine beautiful images with readable meaningful text. Traditional micrograms are created by highly skilled artists and involve a huge amount of tedious manual work. We aim to simplify this process by providing a computerized digital micrography design tool. The main challenge in creating digital micrograms is designing textual layouts that simultaneously convey the input image, are readable and appealing. To generate such layout we use the streamlines of singularity free, low curvature, smooth vector fields, especially designed for our needs. The vector fields are computed using a new approach which controls field properties via
a priori
boundary condition design that balances the different requirements we aim to satisfy. The optimal boundary conditions are computed using a graph-cut approach balancing local and global design considerations. The generated layouts are further processed to obtain the final micrograms. Our method automatically generates engaging, readable micrograms starting from a vector image and an input text while providing a variety of optional high-level controls to the user.
Spark
Authors: Foley Theresa , Hanrahan Pat
Published: July 2011

In creating complex real-time shaders, programmers should be able to decompose code into independent, localized modules of their choosing. Current real-time shading languages, however, enforce a fixed decomposition into per-pipeline-stage procedures. Program concerns at other scales -- including those that
cross-cut
multiple pipeline stages -- cannot be expressed as reusable modules.

We present a shading language, Spark, and its implementation for modern graphics hardware that improves support for separation of concerns into modules. A Spark
shader class
can encapsulate code that maps to more than one pipeline stage, and can be extended and composed using object-oriented inheritance. In our tests, shaders written in Spark achieve performance within 2% of HLSL.
Special Approach to Near Set Theory
Authors: Abd El-Monsef M. E. , Abu-Donia H. M. , Marei E. A.
Published: July 2011

The aim of this paper is to introduce two approaches to near sets by using a special neighbourhood. Some fundamental properties and characterizations are given. We obtain a comparison between these new set approximations as well as set approximations introduced by Peters (2011, 2009, 2007, 2006).
The Relationship between Individual Personality Traits (Internality-Externality) and Psychological Distress in Employees in Japan
Authors: Fushimi Masahito
Published: July 2011

This study examines the relationship between the internality-externality (I-E) scale as an indicator of coping styles and the Kessler 6 (K6) scale as an indicator of psychological distress and analyzes the effects of sociodemographic and employment-related factors on this relationship. Employees from Akita prefecture in Japan were invited to complete self-administered questionnaires. A uniform pattern of findings emerged in the relationship between the two scales as follows: all the significant correlations were negative, that is, as the I-E score increased, the K6 score decreased. Furthermore, significant effects were observed for the I-E scale regarding sex, age, education, employee type, and employment status and the K6 scale with multiple regression analyses. Among these, the effect of the K6 scale was significant for the I-E scale in both males and females. The results of this study may help improve mental health clinicians' understanding of psychological distress in employees.
Chemical Recruitment for Foraging in Ants (Formicidae) and Termites (Isoptera): A Revealing Comparison
Authors: Jaffe Klaus , Issa Solange , Sainz-Borgo Cristina
Published: July 2011

All termites secrete trail pheromones from their sternal gland, whereas ants use a variety of glands for this purpose. This and the diversity of chemical compounds that serve as trail pheromones among ants, and the uniformity of chemicals among termite trails, suggest a different evolutionary historical dynamics for the development of chemical mass recruitment in both taxa. Termites in addition show pheromonal parsimony. This suggest a single evolutionary origin of pheromone trails in Isoptera, whereas chemical mass recruitment among Formicidae seems to have evolved many times and in different ways. Despite these very different evolutionary histories, both taxa evolved chemical recruitment systems involving attractants and orientation signals, and at least two divergent decision making system for recruitment. This evolutionary analogy suggests that chemical mass recruitment is constraint by fundamental physical dynamic laws. Artificial intelligence including “mass intelligence” and “ant intelligence”, emulates mass recruitment in interacting virtual agents in search of optimal solutions. This approach, however, has copied only the “Democratic” recruitment dynamics with a single compound pheromone. Ant and termite evolution shows more sophisticated recruitment dynamics which, if understood properly, will improve our understanding of nature and applications of artificial “swarm intelligence”.
Echocardiographic Indices Do Not Reliably Track Changes in Left-Sided Filling Pressure in Healthy Subjects or Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Bhella Paul S. , Pacini Eric L. , Prasad Anand , Hastings Jeffrey L. , Adams-Huet Beverley , Thomas James D. , Grayburn Paul A. , Levine Benjamin D.
Published: July 2011

Background—

In select patient populations, Doppler echocardiographic indices may be used to estimate left-sided filling pressures. It is not known, however, whether changes in these indices track changes in left-sided filling pressures within individual healthy subjects or patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This knowledge is important because it would support, or refute, the serial use of these indices to estimate changes in filling pressures associated with the titration of medical therapy in patients with heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Forty-seven volunteers were enrolled: 11 highly screened elderly outpatients with a clear diagnosis of HFpEF, 24 healthy elderly subjects, and 12 healthy young subjects. Each patient underwent right heart catheterization with simultaneous transthoracic echo. Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) and key echo indices (E/e′ and E/Vp) were measured at two baselines and during 4 preload altering maneuvers: lower body negative pressure −15 mm Hg; lower body negative pressure −30 mm Hg; rapid saline infusion of 10 to 15 mL/kg; and rapid saline infusion of 20 to 30 mL/kg. A random coefficient mixed model regression of PCWP versus E/e′ and PCWP versus E/Vp was performed for (1) a composite of all data points and (2) a composite of all data points within each of the 3 groups. Linear regression analysis was performed for individual subjects. With this protocol, PCWP was manipulated from 0.8 to 28.8 mm Hg. For E/e′, the composite random effects mixed model regression was PCWP=0.58×E/e′+7.02 (
P
<0.001), confirming the weak but significant relationship between these 2 variables. Individual subject linear regression slopes (range, −6.76 to 11.03) and
r
2
(0.00 to 0.94) were highly variable and often very different than those derived for the composite and group regressions. For E/Vp, the composite random coefficient mixed model regression was PCWP=1.95×E/Vp+7.48 (
P
=0.005); once again, individual subject linear regression slopes (range, −16.42 to 25.39) and
r
2
(range, 0.02 to 0.94) were highly variable and often very different than those derived for the composite and group regressions.

Conclusions—

Within individual subjects the noninvasive indices E/e′ and E/Vp do not reliably track changes in left-sided filling pressures as these pressures vary, precluding the use of these techniques in research studies with healthy volunteers or the titration of medical therapy in patients with HFpEF.
Annealing effects on molecular structures and physical properties of side-by-side conjugate fibers
Authors: Oh Tae Hwan , Han Sung Soo , Lyoo Won Seok , Khil Myung Seob
Published: July 2011

Poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT)/poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) side-by-side conjugate fibers were heat-treated to investigate the effects of annealing on structure development and physical properties. The effects of annealing temperature and time were observed. Even though the drawn conjugate fibers were sufficiently drawn, X-ray profiles showed that the molecular orientation was insufficient. After annealing for more than 1 hour at 180°C, PET and PTT crystal structures developed sufficiently. Crimp contraction decreased from 29% to 22.6% by annealing due to the development of the crystalline structure of the annealed PTT part. Decrease in a shrinkage difference between PET and PTT leads to a decrease in crimp contraction. Thermal shrinkage was also reduced from 11.0% to 1.8% by annealing.
Multinational corporations, global civil society and Chinese labour: Workers’ solidarity in China in the era of globalization
Authors: Cheng Joseph Yu-shek , Ngok King-lun , Huang Yan
Published: July 2011

The evolution of international production chains has facilitated the flow of industrial capital from developed countries into China. Multinational corporations in China apparently make huge profits through exploiting cheap labour, but they also exert pressure on their contractors to improve workers’ rights. International non-governmental organizations enter into the relationship with their moral force and global networks. The authority of the All-China Federation of Trade Unions was challenged, and new channels were offered in fighting for workers’ rights. But within the existing Chinese political system and labour-market system, their roles all remain limited; the protection and promotion of workers’ rights in China still demand a reform of the prevalent systems.
Wal-Mart’s trade union in China
Authors: He Baogang , Xie Yuhua
Published: July 2011

In 2007–8, more than 100 Wal-Mart stores in China established trade unions, which were praised by labour organizations and scholars throughout the world. This article questions these positive assessments and evaluations through an empirical study. The empirical findings reveal a dark and unpleasant picture of a double cooptation in that both the Chinese government and Wal-Mart have successfully coopted a few more or less independent unions. Although the presence of the trade union seems to challenge Wal-Mart’s neoliberal corporate ideology and governance, the compromise and tacit agreement between Wal-Mart and the party-state not only reflects a marriage of convenience but also indicates some deeper compatibility, the compatibility between China’s state corporatist model and the neoliberal approach taken by Wal-Mart. This study finds that China continues to move in a ‘state corporatist’ direction and that the transition towards civil society and ‘societal corporatism’ has been stymied.
Recognition of faces and Greebles in 3-month-old infants: Influence of temperament and cognitive abilities
Authors: Spangler Sibylle M. , Freitag Claudia , Schwarzer Gudrun , Vierhaus Marc , Teubert Manuel , Lamm Bettina , Kolling Thorsten , Graf Frauke , Goertz Claudia , Fassbender Ina , Lohaus Arnold , Knopf Monika , Keller Heidi
Published: July 2011

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether temperament and cognitive abilities are related to recognition performance of Caucasian and African faces and of a nonfacial stimulus class, Greebles. Seventy Caucasian infants were tested at 3 months with a habituation/dishabituation paradigm and their temperament and cognitive abilities were measured. Analyses revealed that only infants with easy temperament recognized familiar Greebles from the habituation phase. A similar pattern was found for cognitive abilities showing that only infants with higher cognitive abilities recognized Greebles. Irrespectively of temperament and cognitive abilities, all infants recognized the faces. Thus, the data suggest that recognition of unfamiliar Greebles, but not of faces, is demanding for 3-month-old infants with difficult temperament or lower cognitive abilities.
Social Responsibility and the Competitive Bid Process for Major Sporting Events
Authors: Carey Meaghan , Mason Daniel S. , Misener Laura
Published: July 2011

The 2016 Summer Olympic Games1 bids were selected as a case study to explore how the focus on social responsibility (CSR) and community development (CD) differs in traditional versus nontraditional bid cities. We employed a media framing methodology to examine how the bids were represented through media and articulated by various stakeholders. Of specific interest was the finding that the discourse surrounding the Rio de Janeiro bid put a greater focus on the capability of sport to reach out to disadvantaged populations and create balance within the global economy. The results from this study will provide insights into how the global media has framed megaevent bids from nontraditional cities, and the social and economic benefits event proponents argue can be accrued from hosting.
An analytical method to determine the addendum modification parameters of involute helical gears
Authors: Chen T , Sun W , Zhang X
Published: July 2011

Due to the simplified tooth profile and the complicated load distribution along the contact line, the traditional analytic method cannot satisfy the accuracy requirement while carrying out addendum modification of the helical gears. To overcome this disadvantage, a new way based on cross-section method is presented to calculate the deformation of helical tooth tip. First, the tooth is divided into copies of cross-section along face width and the moment of inertia for each section is calculated. Also, the load is distributed according to length of the contact line, and the effect of deflected load is taken into account as well. Based on these works, a general formula of helical tooth tip deformation is deduced. Then, this formula is applied to calculate the addendum modification width ac. In addition, considering that tooth tip modification will shorten the meshing line, three models used to control length of the remaining meshing line are proposed and addendum modification height hc is defined accordingly. Finally, an instance is given to verify the good agreement between results of this study and those of a finite element model. Apart from this, engineering application of this method is provided.
Modelling and simulation methodology of channel cooling using hydrocarbon fuel as coolant under supercritical pressures
Authors: Bao W , Li X-L , Qin J , Zhou W-X
Published: July 2011

A one-dimensional cooling channel model is proposed using unsteady partial differential equations (PDEs) and taking into account the strong dependencies of hydrocarbon fuel properties on temperature and pressure. The model can be used to evaluate the performance of channel cooling using hydrocarbon fuel as coolant under supercritical pressures, and to guide the design of a thermal protection system for aerospace application. Meanwhile, a graphical simulation method is developed to directly solve the proposed model using Simulink by converting the PDE to a set of ordinary differential equations without any need to write program codes. The graphical method can reduce the substantive work resulting from program codes writing and debugging and bring about interactions with users through its graphical user interface. In order to show the usability of the proposed model and the developed graphical method, n-pentane, a typical hydrocarbon fuel, is taken as an example to run two simulations for steady and transient calculations. The developed graphical simulator for channel cooling is verified by comparing the calculation results with the experimental data of an electrical heating tube. It is believed that this investigation will pave the way for implementation of the graphical simulation of the whole cooled propulsion system used for supersonic or hypersonic flights.
A p-type finite element solution for the simulation of O2 transport in articular cartilage tissue: heterogeneous and porous media
Authors: Mohammadi H , Mequanint K , Herzog W
Published: July 2011

The partial pressure of oxygen (pO2) is suggested to have a regulatory effect on chondrocyte biosynthetic activities, and its effect during expansion is unknown. The authors hypothesize that oxygen tension due to mechanical deformation or swelling could be as important as direct mechanical effects on cell biosynthetic activities. While there are plenty of studies on measuring and/or modelling pO2 in articular cartilage (AC) for static (rest) conditions, to the best of the authors’ knowledge there are very few such studies on pO2 in AC for dynamic conditions such as swelling or tissue deformation. In this study, it is attempted to develop a model to study the dynamics of oxygen transport in AC. A high-precision hybrid element is designed using the p-type finite element method, by which diffusion and convection are incorporated as a single element. A domain decomposition method is used that allows the use of a different type of discretization with independent discretization variables in non-overlapping sub-domains, for a generic three-dimensional approach to elliptic boundary value problems of order 2 or higher. The formulation developed in this study might be used in determining the necessary flow conditions to cultivate tissue constructs in tissue repair and tissue engineering.
Orff Ensembles
Authors: Taylor Donald M.
Published: July 2011

Playing Orff instruments provides students with a wide variety of opportunities to explore creative musicianship. This article examines the benefits of classroom instrument study, common challenges encountered, and viable teaching strategies to promote student success. The ability to remove notes from barred instruments makes note accuracy more accessible, freeing students to focus on more sophisticated musical elements related to balance, blend, and dynamics. In addition, many Orff arrangements are easy to learn because of the common use of simple ostinato figures and limited harmonic structures. Although these patterns may be simple to grasp, they can be difficult to perform with rhythmic control. Students often rush the beat, causing faulty precision within the ensemble. Within a few measures, ensemble unity can be lost. Teaching solutions offered in this article focus on strategies related to technique development, efficient diagnosis, and effective modeling.
Cancer Screening Knowledge Changes
Authors: Parish Susan L. , Rose Roderick A. , Luken Karen , Swaine Jamie G. , O’Hare Lindsey
Published: July 2011

Background: Women with developmental disabilities are much less likely than nondisabled women to receive cervical and breast cancer screening according to clinical guidelines. One barrier to receipt of screenings is a lack of knowledge about preventive screenings. Method: To address this barrier, we used a randomized control trial ( n = 175 women) to test Women Be Healthy, an intervention designed to promote cervical and breast cancer screening for women with developmental disabilities. Women assigned to the experimental group participated in weekly health education program for 8 weeks. Women assigned to the control group participated in their regular vocational training or educational activities. Results: Unadjusted findings indicated modest gains for both groups in knowledge related to cervical and breast cancer screening. Regression results indicated statistically significant but modest knowledge gains for the experimental group related to breast cancer screening. Implications: These findings indicate that the Women Be Healthy curriculum is promising but needs to better address cervical cancer.
The Surprising Role of Local Governments in International Environmental Cooperation
Authors: Nakamura Hidenori , Elder Mark , Mori Hideyuki
Published: July 2011

This study shows that some Japanese local governments, at both the prefecture and city levels, have engaged in international cooperation with local governments in developing countries in Asia to improve environmental management and explains their motivations to do so even if international cooperation is not usually considered part of local governments’ mandate, and despite fiscal constraints. Forms of cooperation include training officials from developing countries in Japan, dispatch of Japanese local government expert officials to developing countries, partnering with and providing assistance to international organizations, establishing organizations for international environmental cooperation, and hosting international intercity network programs. This cooperation can be explained by a combination of environment-related factors and degree of local area’s international orientation. Environment-related factors include desire to make a contribution based on local experience and human capital, promotion of international environmental business, response to trans-boundary pollution issues, and conservation of natural assets. Collaboration with the national government is an important facilitating though not determining factor since local governments respond differently to national policies. Other facilitating factors include local governments’ fiscal capacity. The cases in this study can promote consideration of the potential motivations and ways that local governments in industrialized countries can contribute to international environmental development.
Validation of an Adaptation of Levenson’s Locus of Control Scale With Adult Male Incarcerated Sexual Offenders
Authors: Huntley Fay L. , Palmer Emma J. , Wakeling Helen C.
Published: July 2011

This article examines the psychometric properties of an adaptation of Levenson’s Locus of Control (LoC) measure that is used by the English and Welsh Prison Service as part of the psychometric assessment battery for sexual offenders participating in the Sex Offender Treatment Programme (SOTP). Reliability and validity analyses were conducted on a sample of 2,497 sexual offenders who had completed SOTP. Internal consistency, convergent validity, and relationship to socially desirable responding were investigated. Construct validity was assessed via exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Test-retest reliability data were collected from an additional sample of 26 sexual offenders. The scale was found to have excellent internal consistency, good test-retest reliability, and weak to moderate convergent validity with measures of self-esteem, attachment styles, emotional loneliness, and social problem solving. There was a moderate correlation between the scale and socially desirable responding. EFA and CFA suggested that a four-factor solution provided an acceptable fit to the data, with the factors relating to constructs of chance, problem solving, powerful others, and internal control. The findings of the present study suggest that the adapted LoC Scale is a useful tool for assessing sexual offenders’ locus of control.
A randomized placebo-controlled cross-over study using a low frequency magnetic field in the treatment of fatigue in multiple sclerosis
Authors: de Carvalho Maria Laura Lopes , Motta Roberta , Konrad Giovanna , Battaglia Mario Alberto , Brichetto Giampaolo
Published: July 2011

Background: Fatigue is one of the most common disabling symptoms in multiple sclerosis (MS). There is growing evidence in the literature for beneficial effects of magnetic fields on different MS symptoms and this has been reported to be beneficial in patients with MS, especially those with fatigue.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the effects on primary fatigue with a pulsed systemic low frequency magnetic field by means of clinical scales in a population of MS subjects.

Methods: Randomized double-blind cross-over trial with 50 MS subjects with primary fatigue who were recruited among those followed as outpatients at the AISM Rehabilitation Centre, Genova, Italy. Subjects were randomized into two groups: magnetic field group and sham therapy group and evaluated with the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS), the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), VAS and Time Walking Test 10 meter (TWT10m.) at the time points of the study. Each group received both sham therapy and magnetic field therapy with a wash-out period of 5 months. Subjects were treated for 24 min per session, three times per week, for 8 weeks. Statistical analysis was performed using multivariate analysis.

Results: Results showed a statistically significant improvement in MFIS Physical Score for T0 − T1 ( p < 0.05) for TIME but not for TREATMENT and TIME*TREATMENT factors. No statistically significant differences were found for all other parameters considered in the study.

Conclusions: Exposure to a low frequency magnetic field, within the parameters of this treatment protocol, has no advantage over sham exposure in reducing the impact of fatigue.
The development of a new measure of social-emotional functioning for young adolescents
Authors: Wall Sarah E. , Huw Williams W. , Morris Robin G. , Bramham Jessica
Published: July 2011

Social and emotional impairments are frequently reported following acquired brain injury, including an inability to adopt another’s perspective, empathize, and display guilt, and inappropriate social conduct. Case studies suggest that these problems are particularly apparent when the injury is sustained in childhood, with deficits increasing with age and persisting throughout adulthood. In addition to these deficits, individuals may have limited insight into their cognitive or social-emotional deficits, which in turn may also affect social functioning and have implications for the success of rehabilitation. Despite the frequency of these problems, there is a dearth of suitable measures for detecting them in children or adolescents. The purpose of the current study was to develop one such measure from a measure initially intended for adults. Normative data were collected from 109 typically-developing 11- to 14-year-olds and their parent/guardian on the Social-Emotional Questionnaire for Children (SEQ-C). Factor and reliability analyses were conducted and the subscales were then explored in association with key demographic information. Social-emotional development showed a fluctuating course across early adolescence, alongside some gender differences. This measure, with its normative data, will be of value to neuropsychologists wishing to explore such functioning in their clinical practice.
Quality-of-Life Measures in Children With Neurological Conditions
Authors: Lai Jin-Shei , Nowinski Cindy , Victorson David , Bode Rita , Podrabsky Tracy , McKinney Natalie , Straube Don , Holmes Gregory L. , McDonald Craig M. , Henricson Erik , Abresch R. Ted , Moy Claudia S. , Cella David
Published: July 2011

Background. A comprehensive, reliable, and valid measurement system is needed to monitor changes in children with neurological conditions who experience lifelong functional limitations. Objective. This article describes the development and psychometric properties of the pediatric version of the Quality of Life in Neurological Disorders (Neuro-QOL) measurement system. Methods. The pediatric Neuro-QOL consists of generic and targeted measures. Literature review, focus groups, individual interviews, cognitive interviews of children and consensus meetings were used to identify and finalize relevant domains and item content. Testing was conducted on 1018 children aged 10 to 17 years drawn from the US general population for generic measures and 171 similarly aged children with muscular dystrophy or epilepsy for targeted measures. Dimensionality was evaluated using factor analytic methods. For unidimensional domains, item parameters were estimated using item response theory models. Measures with acceptable fit indices were calibrated as item banks; those without acceptable fit indices were treated as summary scales. Results. Ten measures were developed: 8 generic or targeted banks (anxiety, depression, anger, interaction with peers, fatigue, pain, applied cognition, and stigma) and 2 generic scales (upper and lower extremity function). The banks reliably ( r > 0.90) measured 63.2% to 100% of the children tested. Conclusions. The pediatric Neuro-QOL is a comprehensive measurement system with acceptable psychometric properties that could be used in computerized adaptive testing. The next step is to validate these measures in various clinical populations.
The interferon beta therapies for treatment of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis: are they equally efficacious? A comparative review of open-label studies evaluating the efficacy, safety, or dosing of different interferon beta formulations alone or in combination
Authors: Limmroth Volker , Putzki Norman , Kachuck Norman J.
Published: July 2011

Interferon beta preparations are the most widely used initial therapies prescribed for patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. Phase III studies have demonstrated comparable efficacy on clinical measures of disease activity, variable benefits on radiological measures, and good overall tolerability. Subsequent clinical studies have attempted to compare directly the three available interferon beta preparations, reporting both safety and efficacy data. We review the literature on studies evaluating interferon beta therapy for patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis, discuss reasons for discrepant findings, and assess the utility of interferon beta-based combination regimens as the focus of future studies in the increasingly complex multiple sclerosis therapy landscape.
Mobility Criteria for Upright Sitting With Patients in the Neuro/Trauma Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Gillick Bernadette T. , Marshall Wendy J. , Rheault Wendy , Stoecker Judy
Published: July 2011

Background and purpose: Few studies have explored optimal advancement and variation in mobility and length of stay (LOS) data with critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). The purpose of this study was to analyze the outcomes and LOS of critically ill patients in the neurotrauma ICU involved in rehabilitation. Methods: A bidirectional case–control study of a total of 30 patients admitted to a level 1 trauma hospital in the metropolitan Chicago area with Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) of ≤12 (3-12) were studied. Functional outcomes of a structured mobility group were compared at first upright sitting and at ICU discharge using the functional independence measure (FIM). Retrospective LOS review of a group (n = 15) with unstructured activity advancement was compared. Results: The main outcome measures were FIM scores and LOS in number of days. In the structured mobility group, a significant increase in functional performance between first upright sitting and ICU discharge was found ( P < .005). Length of stay was shorter in the structured mobility groups but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Results from this study revealed favorable functional outcomes for patients involved in a structured mobility program with physical therapy in the neuro/trauma ICU.
Glucocorticoids are gastroprotective under physiologic conditions
Authors: Filaretova Ludmila
Published: July 2011

Stress may contribute to the development and progression of gastrointestinal disorders. Activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical (HPA) axis is one of the main characteristics of stress. For several decades it was generally accepted that glucocorticoids released during stress are ulcerogenic hormones. We designed some experimental studies in rats to clarify the validity of this widely held view. To achieve this goal, we examined the effect of glucocorticoid deficiency followed by corticosterone replacement or the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, RU-38486, on stress-induced gastric erosion and the parameters of gastric function in rats. The data obtained shows that the reduction in the stress-induced corticosterone release, or its actions, aggravates stress-caused gastric erosion. It is suggested that an acute increase in corticosterone during stress protects the stomach against stress-induced injury. According to our results, various ulcerogenic stimuli, similar to stress, induce an increase in corticosterone that helps the gastric mucosa to resist against a harmful action of ulcerogenic stimuli. Glucocorticoids exhibit their gastroprotective effect by both maintaining local defensive factors and inhibiting pathogenic elements. Furthermore, the contribution of glucocorticoids to gastroprotection is tightly related to their contribution to general body homeostasis. Glucocorticoids provide gastroprotective actions in co-operation with prostaglandins, nitric oxide and capsaicin-sensitive sensory neurons. The results obtained do not support the traditional paradigm and suggest that glucocorticoids released during acute activation of the HPA axis are naturally occurring gastroprotective factors. In this article, we review our recent publications on the role of glucocorticoids in gastroprotection.
Reduced ribosomal protein gene dosage and p53 activation in low-risk myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: McGowan Kelly A. , Pang Wendy W. , Bhardwaj Rashmi , Perez Marcelina G. , Pluvinage John V. , Glader Bertil E. , Malek Reem , Mendrysa Susan M. , Weissman Irving L. , Park Christopher Y. , Barsh Gregory S.
Published: July 2011

Reduced gene dosage of ribosomal protein subunits has been implicated in 5q− myelodysplastic syndrome and Diamond Blackfan anemia, but the cellular and pathophysiologic defects associated with these conditions are enigmatic. Using conditional inactivation of the ribosomal protein S6 gene in laboratory mice, we found that reduced ribosomal protein gene dosage recapitulates cardinal features of the 5q− syndrome, including macrocytic anemia, erythroid hypoplasia, and megakaryocytic dysplasia with thrombocytosis, and that p53 plays a critical role in manifestation of these phenotypes. The blood cell abnormalities are accompanied by a reduction in the number of HSCs, a specific defect in late erythrocyte development, and suggest a disease-specific ontogenetic pathway for megakaryocyte development. Further studies of highly purified HSCs from healthy patients and from those with myelodysplastic syndrome link reduced expression of ribosomal protein genes to decreased RBC maturation and suggest an underlying and common pathophysiologic pathway for additional subtypes of myelodysplastic syndrome.
Sclerotic-type chronic GVHD of the skin: clinical risk factors, laboratory markers, and burden of disease
Authors: Martires Kathryn J. , Baird Kristin , Steinberg Seth M. , Grkovic Lana , Joe Galen O. , Williams Kirsten M. , Mitchell Sandra A. , Datiles Manuel , Hakim Fran T. , Pavletic Steven Z. , Cowen Edward W.
Published: July 2011

Chronic GVHD is one of the most severe complications of allogeneic HSCT. The sclerotic skin manifestations of cGVHD (ScGVHD) result from inflammation and fibrosis of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, or fascia, leading to significant functional disability. Risk factors and clinical markers associated with ScGVHD remain largely unexamined. By using a single-visit, cross-sectional design, we evaluated 206 patients with cGVHD at the National Institutes of Health. Most patients manifested severe (ie, 63% National Institutes of Health score “severe”), refractory disease (median treatments = 4). ScGVHD was detected in 109 (52.9%) patients. ScGVHD was associated with greater platelet count (P < .001) and C3 (P < .001), and decreased forced vital capacity (P = .013). Total body irradiation (TBI) was associated with development of ScGVHD (P = .002). TBI administered in reduced-intensity conditioning was most strongly associated with ScGVHD (14/15 patients, P < .0001). Patients with ScGVHD had significant impairments of joint range of motion and grip strength (P < .001). Greater body surface area involvement was associated with poorer survival (P = .015). We conclude that TBI, particularly in reduced-intensity regimens, may be an important risk factor for ScGVHD. Widespread skin involvement is associated with significant functional impairment, distressing symptoms, and diminished survival. This trial is registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00331968.
Changing patterns of malaria during 1996-2010 in an area of moderate transmission in Southern Senegal
Authors: Brasseur Philippe , Badiane Malick , Cisse Moustafa , Agnamey Patrice , Vaillant Michel T , Olliaro Piero L
Published: July 2011

Background

Malaria is reportedly receding in different epidemiological settings, but local long-term surveys are limited. At Mlomp dispensary in south-western Senegal, an area of moderate malaria transmission, year-round, clinically-suspected malaria was treated with monotherapy as per WHO and national policy in the 1990s. Since 2000, there has been a staggered deployment of artesunate-amodiaquine after parasitological confirmation; this was adopted nationally in 2006.

Methods

Data were extracted from clinic registers for the period between January 1996 and December 2010, analysed and modelled.

Results

Over the 15-year study period, the risk of malaria decreased about 32-times (from 0.4 to 0.012 episodes person-year), while anti-malarial treatments decreased 13-times (from 0.9 to 0.07 treatments person-year) and consultations for fever decreased 3-times (from 1.8 to 0.6 visits person-year). This was paralleled by changes in the age profile of malaria patients so that the risk of malaria is now almost uniformly distributed throughout life, while in the past malaria used to concern more children below 16 years of age.

Conclusions

This study provides direct evidence of malaria risk receding between 1996-2010 and becoming equal throughout life where transmission used to be moderate. Infection rates are no longer enough to sustain immunity. Temporally, this coincides with deploying artemisinin combinations on parasitological confirmation, but other contributing causes are unclear.