bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fibrosis-Related Biomarkers and Incident Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults
Authors: Agarwal Isha , Glazer Nicole L. , Barasch Eddy , Biggs Mary L. , Djousse Luc , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Gottdiener John S. , Ix Joachim H. , Kizer Jorge R. , Rimm Eric B. , Sicovick David S. , Tracy Russell P. , Mukamal Kenneth J.
Published: June 2014

Background—

Fibrotic changes in the heart and arteries have been implicated in a diverse range of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but whether circulating biomarkers that reflect fibrosis are associated with CVD is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We determined the associations of 2 biomarkers of fibrosis, transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β), and procollagen type III N-terminal propeptide (PIIINP), with incident heart failure, myocardial infarction, and stroke among community-living older adults in the Cardiovascular Health Study. We measured circulating TGF-β (n=1371) and PIIINP (n=2568) from plasma samples collected in 1996 and ascertained events through 2010. Given TGF-β’s pleiotropic effects on inflammation and fibrogenesis, we investigated potential effect modification by C-reactive protein in secondary analyses. After adjustment for sociodemographic, clinical, and biochemical risk factors, PIIINP was associated with total CVD (hazard ratio [HR] per SD=1.07; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.14) and heart failure (HR per SD=1.08; CI, 1.01–1.16) but not myocardial infarction or stroke. TGF-β was not associated with any CVD outcomes in the full cohort but was associated with total CVD (HR per SD=1.16; CI, 1.02–1.31), heart failure (HR per SD=1.16; CI, 1.01–1.34), and stroke (HR per SD=1.20; CI, 1.01–1.42) among individuals with C-reactive protein above the median, 2.3 mg/L (
P
interaction <0.05).

Conclusions—

Our findings provide large-scale, prospective evidence that circulating biomarkers of fibrosis, measured in community-living individuals late in life, are associated with CVD. Further research on whether TGF-β has a stronger fibrogenic effect in the setting of inflammation is warranted.
Radial Versus Femoral Access Is Associated With Reduced Complications and Mortality in Patients With Non–ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Iqbal M. Bilal , Arujuna Aruna , Ilsley Charles , Archbold Andrew , Crake Tom , Firoozi Sam , Kalra Sundeep , Knight Charles , Lim Pitt , Malik Iqbal S. , Mathur Anthony , Meier Pascal , Rakhit Roby D. , Redwood Simon , Whitbread Mark , Bromage Dan , Rathod Krishna , Wragg Andrew , MacCarthy Philip , Dalby Miles
Published: June 2014

Background—

Compared with transfemoral access, transradial access (TRA) for percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with reduced risk of bleeding and vascular complications. Studies suggest that TRA may reduce mortality in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction. However, there are few data on the effect of TRA on mortality, specifically, in patients with non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed 10 095 consecutive patients with non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction treated with percutaneous coronary intervention between 2005 and 2011 in all 8 tertiary cardiac centers in London, United Kingdom. TRA was a predictor for reduced bleeding (odds ratio=0.21; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.08–0.57;
P
=0.002), access-site complications (odds ratio=0.47; 95% CI: 0.23–0.95;
P
=0.034), and 1-year mortality (hazard ratio [HR]=0.72; 95% CI: 0.54–0.94;
P
=0.017). Between 2005 and 2007, TRA did not appear to reduce mortality at 1 year (HR=0.81; 95% CI: 0.51–1.28;
P
=0.376), whereas between 2008 and 2011, TRA conferred survival benefit at 1 year (HR=0.65; 95% CI: 0.46–0.92;
P
=0.015). The mortality benefit with TRA at 1 year was not seen at the low-volume centers (HR=0.80; 95% CI: 0.47–1.38;
P
=0.428) but specifically seen in the high volume radial centers (HR=0.70; 95% CI: 0.51–0.97;
P
=0.031). In propensity-matched analyses, TRA remained a predictor for survival at 1 year (HR=0.60; 95% CI: 0.42–0.85;
P
=0.005). Instrumental variable analysis demonstrated that TRA conferred mortality benefit at 1-year with an absolute mortality reduction of 5.8% (
P
=0.039).

Conclusions—

In this analysis of patients with non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, TRA appears to be a predictor for survival. Furthermore, the evolving learning curve, experience, and expertise may be important factors contributing to the prognostic benefit conferred with TRA.
Dual-Contrast Molecular Imaging Allows Noninvasive Characterization of Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury After Coronary Vessel Occlusion in Mice by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: von Elverfeldt Dominik , Maier Alexander , Duerschmied Daniel , Braig Moritz , Witsch Thilo , Wang Xiaowei , Mauler Maximilian , Neudorfer Irene , Menza Marius , Idzko Marco , Zirlik Andreas , Heidt Timo , Bronsert Peter , Bode Christoph , Peter Karlheinz , von zur Muhlen Constantin
Published: June 2014

Background—

Inflammation and myocardial necrosis play important roles in ischemia/reperfusion injury after coronary artery occlusion and recanalization. The detection of inflammatory activity and the extent of myocardial necrosis itself are of great clinical and prognostic interest. We developed a dual, noninvasive imaging approach using molecular magnetic resonance imaging in an in vivo mouse model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion.

Methods and Results—

Ischemia/reperfusion injury was induced in 10-week-old C57BL/6N mice by temporary ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery. Activated platelets were targeted with a contrast agent consisting of microparticles of iron oxide (MPIOs) conjugated to a single-chain antibody directed against a ligand-induced binding site (LIBS) on activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (LIBS-MPIOs). After injection and imaging of LIBS-MPIOs, late gadolinium enhancement was used to depict myocardial necrosis; these imaging experiments were also performed in P2Y
12
−/−
mice. All imaging results were correlated to immunohistochemistry findings. Activated platelets were detectable by magnetic resonance imaging via a significant signal effect caused by LIBS-MPIOs in the area of left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion 2 hours after reperfusion. In parallel, late gadolinium enhancement identified the extent of myocardial necrosis. Immunohistochemistry confirmed that LIBS-MPIOs bound significantly to microthrombi in reperfused myocardium. Only background binding was found in P2Y
12
−/−
mice.

Conclusions—

Dual molecular imaging of myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury allows characterization of platelet-driven inflammation by LIBS-MPIOs and myocardial necrosis by late gadolinium enhancement. This noninvasive imaging strategy is of clinical interest for both diagnostic and prognostic purposes and highlights the potential of molecular magnetic resonance imaging for characterizing ischemia/reperfusion injury.
ECG Morphological Variability in Beat Space for Risk Stratification After Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Liu Yun , Syed Zeeshan , Scirica Benjamin M. , Morrow David A. , Guttag John V. , Stultz Collin M.
Published: June 2014

Background

Identification of patients who are at high risk of adverse cardiovascular events after an acute coronary syndrome (
ACS
) remains a major challenge in clinical cardiology. We hypothesized that quantifying variability in electrocardiogram (
ECG)
morphology may improve risk stratification post‐
ACS
.

Methods and Results

We developed a new metric to quantify beat‐to‐beat morphologic changes in the
ECG
: morphologic variability in beat space (
MVB
), and compared our metric to published
ECG
metrics (heart rate variability [
HRV
], deceleration capacity [
DC
], T‐wave alternans, heart rate turbulence, and severe autonomic failure). We tested the ability of these metrics to identify patients at high risk of cardiovascular death (
CVD
) using 1082 patients (1‐year
CVD
rate, 4.5%) from the
MERLIN
‐
TIMI
36 (Metabolic Efficiency with Ranolazine for Less Ischemia in Non‐
ST
‐Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome—Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 36) clinical trial.
DC
,
HRV/low frequency–high frequency,
and
MVB
were all associated with
CVD
(hazard ratios [HRs] from 2.1 to 2.3 [
P
<0.05 for all] after adjusting for the
TIMI
risk score [
TRS
], left ventricular ejection fraction [
LVEF
], and B‐type natriuretic peptide [
BNP
]). In a cohort with low‐to‐moderate
TRS
(N=864; 1‐year
CVD
rate, 2.7%), only
MVB
was significantly associated with
CVD
(HR, 3.0;
P
=0.01, after adjusting for
LVEF
and
BNP
).

Conclusions

ECG
morphological variability in beat space contains prognostic information complementary to the clinical variables,
LVEF
and
BNP,
in patients with low‐to‐moderate
TRS
.
ECG
metrics could help to risk stratify patients who might not otherwise be considered at high risk of
CVD
post‐
ACS
.
Race/Ethnic Differences in the Risk of Hemorrhagic Complications Among Patients With Ischemic Stroke Receiving Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Mehta Rajendra H. , Cox Margueritte , Smith Eric E. , Xian Ying , Bhatt Deepak L. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Peterson Eric D.
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose—

Race/ethnic-related differences in safety of intravenous thrombolytic therapy have been shown in patients with myocardial infarction, but not studied in ischemic stroke.

Methods—

Using data from the Get With The Guidelines (GWTG)-Stroke program (n=54 334), we evaluated differences in risk-adjusted bleeding rates (any, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage [sICH], serious life-threatening [excluding sICH], or other) and mortality in white (n=40 411), black (n=8243), Hispanic (n=4257), and Asian (n=1523) patients receiving intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) for acute ischemic stroke.

Results—

Compared with white patients, overall adjusted hemorrhagic complications after tPA were higher in black (odds ratio, 1.14, 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.28) and Asian (odds ratio, 1.36, 95% confidence interval, 1.14–1.61) patients. Overall adjusted bleeding complications in Hispanics were similar to those of whites. Increased risk of overall bleeding in Asians was related to higher risk of adjusted sICH (odds ratio, 1.47, 95% confidence interval, 1.19–1.82), whereas in blacks, it was related to higher risk of other bleeding. No significant race-related difference was noted in risk of serious or life-threatening bleeding or in overall mortality or death in patients with sICH or any hemorrhagic complications.

Conclusions—

In patients with stroke receiving tPA, hemorrhagic complications were slightly higher in blacks and Asians, but not in Hispanics compared with whites. Asians also faced significantly higher risk for sICH relative to other race/ethnic groups. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether reduction in tPA dose similar to that used in many Asian countries could improve the safety of tPA therapy in Asians in the United States with acute ischemic strokes while maintaining efficacy.
Predictors and Biomarkers of Treatment Gains in a Clinical Stroke Trial Targeting the Lower Extremity
Authors: Burke Erin , Dobkin Bruce H. , Noser Elizabeth A. , Enney Lori A. , Cramer Steven C.
Published: June 2014

Background and Purpose—

Behavioral measures are often used to distinguish subgroups of patients with stroke (eg, to predict treatment gains, stratify clinical trial enrollees, or select rehabilitation therapy). In studies of the upper extremity, measures of brain function using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) have also been found useful, but this approach has not been examined for the lower extremity. The current study hypothesized that an fMRI-based measure of cortical function would significantly improve prediction of treatment-induced lower extremity behavioral gains. Biomarkers of treatment gains were also explored.

Methods—

Patients with hemiparesis 1 to 12 months after stroke were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial of ropinirole+physical therapy versus placebo+physical therapy, results of which have previously been reported (NCT00221390).
15
Primary end point was change in gait velocity. Enrollees underwent baseline multimodal assessment that included 19 measures spanning 5 assessment categories (medical history, impairment, disability, brain injury, and brain function), and also underwent reassessment 3 weeks after end of therapy.

Results—

In bivariate analysis, 8 baseline measures belonging to 4 categories (medical history, impairment, disability, and brain function) significantly predicted change in gait velocity. Prediction was strongest, however, using a multivariate model containing 2 measures (leg Fugl–Meyer score and fMRI activation volume within ipsilesional foot sensorimotor cortex). Increased activation volume within bilateral foot primary sensorimotor cortex correlated positively with treatment-induced leg motor gains.

Conclusions—

A multimodal model incorporating behavioral and fMRI measures best predicted treatment-induced changes in gait velocity in a clinical trial setting. Results also suggest potential use of fMRI measures as biomarkers of treatment gains.
Lepidozia bragginsiana, a new species from New Zealand (Marchantiopsida)
Authors: Cooper Endymion D. , Renner Matt A. M.
Published: June 2014

Molecular and morphological data support the recognition of a new Lepidozia species related to L. pendulina and also endemic to New Zealand, which we dedicate to Dr John Braggins. Lepidozia bragginsiana can be distinguished from closely related and other similar species by its bipinnate branching, the narrow underleaf lobes, typically uniseriate toward their tip on both primary and secondary shoots, the asymmetric underleaves on primary shoots that are usually narrower than the stem and also possess basal spines and spurs, the production of spurs and spines, or even accessory lobes, on the postical margin of primary and secondary shoot leaves; and by the relatively small leaf cells with evenly thickened walls.  Lepidozia bragginsiana is an inhabitant of hyper-humid forest habitats where it occupies elevated microsites on the forest floor. A lectotype is proposed for L. obtusiloba.
Intrafamilial Variable Hearing Loss in TRPV4 Induced Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Authors: Oonk Anne M.M. , Ekker Merel S. , Huygen Patrick L.M. , Kunst Henricus P.M. , Kremer Hannie , Schelhaas Jurgen J. , Pennings Ronald J.E.
Published: June 2014

Objective:

Mutations in the transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 gene ( TRPV4) can induce a great diversity of neuropathies. Together with these neuropathies, hearing loss can occur. This study is focused on providing an audiometric phenotype description of a Dutch family with spinal muscular atrophy caused by a mutation in TRPV4.

Methods:

A neurological examination was repeated and pure tone and speech audiometry were performed.

Results:

A large variety in neurological symptoms as well as variation in audiometric characteristics was observed. The severity of hearing loss is mild to moderate and the audiogram configuration is highly variable. The hearing loss of these patients has a progressive nature in general. The frequencies that deteriorate significantly differ between family members. When compared to presbyacusis patients, speech recognition scores of patients with a TRPV4 mutation are not clearly different.

Conclusion:

The function of TRPV4 in the inner ear is still elusive but it is suggested that TRPV4 is required for maintenance of cochlear function in stress conditions, like acoustic injury. We can neither confirm nor reject this based on the results obtained in this family. Therefore, one might consider advising patients with a TRPV4 mutation to avoid exposure to environmental influences such as noise exposure.
Parental Perception of Premature Infant Growth and Feeding Behaviors
Authors: Chung Jaeah , Lee Janet , Spinazzola Regina , Rosen Lisa , Milanaik Ruth
Published: June 2014

Background. The extent to which pediatricians inform parents about gestation-adjusted age growth plotting is unclear. Uninformed parents may have decreased satisfaction of infant growth. Subsequent early introduction of solid foods may lead to avoidant feeding behaviors and poor parental perception of infant feeding patterns. Methods. Questionnaires regarding infant growth and feeding behaviors were given to parents (n = 76) of premature infants. The Wilcoxon rank-sum and χ2/Fisher’s exact tests were used. Results. Uninformed parents were less satisfied with their infant’s growth ( P < .002). Uninformed parents had more developmentally unready infants at the time of solid food introduction compared with informed parents ( P = .03). Significant differences were found in avoidant feeding behaviors and parental perception of infant feeding patterns between developmentally ready and unready infants. Conclusion. Pediatricians should adjust for gestational age when plotting growth and assess for developmental readiness for premature infants when recommending solid foods.
Modern Disposable Diaper Construction
Authors: Counts Jennifer L. , Helmes C. Tucker , Kenneally Dianna , Otts David R.
Published: June 2014

Disposable diapers today employ dramatically better fitting, less bulky, and more environmentally friendly features that deliver better performance and help provide protection for infant skin. Continuous innovations in technology and materials have resulted in new generations of disposable diapers that provide extended dryness and reduced leakage. Driven by studies on the skin’s response to inherent influences, such as overhydration and irritation, the qualities of disposable diapers today present significant enhancements for skin health compared with earlier disposable versions and even cloth diapers. Over the years, these enhancements in disposable diapers have helped lead to a reduction in incidence and severity of diaper dermatitis.
Social Adjustment of Deaf Early Adolescents at the Start of Secondary School
Authors: Wolters Nina , Knoors Harry , Cillessen Antonius H. N. , Verhoeven Ludo
Published: June 2014

This study examined the peer relationships and social behaviors of deaf adolescents in the first 2 years of secondary school. Peer nominations and ratings of peer status and behavior were collected longitudinally with 74 deaf and 271 hearing adolescents from Grade 7 to Grade 8. The predictions of deaf adolescents’ peer status in Grade 8 from Grade 7 behaviors differed between mainstream education and special education settings. The behaviors of deaf early adolescents in the beginning of secondary school strongly predicted their peer status a year later. For deaf mainstream students, withdrawn behavior was the most important and negative predictor of peer status. For deaf students in special education settings, prosocial behavior was the most important and positive predictor of peer status.
Examining the Effects and Quality of Interventions Based on the Assessment of Contextual Variables
Authors: Losinski Mickey , Maag John W. , Katsiyannis Antonis , Ennis Robin Parks
Published: June 2014

Interventions based on the results of functional behavioral assessment (FBA) have been the topic of extensive research and, in certain cases, mandated for students with disabilities under the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. There exist a wide variety of methods for conducting such assessments, with little consensus in the field. The purpose of this study was to conduct a review and meta-analysis of single-case design studies focusing on interventions based on the assessment of contextual variables (i.e., circumstances that form the setting for the behaviors). Results indicated that although most studies demonstrated positive effects that were corroborated by a variety of effect size measures, few met the majority of evidence-based quality indicators. Implications for future research are provided.
Beyond nostalgia: Identity work in corporate alumni networks
Authors: Bardon Thibaut , Josserand Emmanuel , Villesèche Florence
Published: June 2014

Although corporate alumni networks are a developing practice, academia has said very little about them and their members. In this article, our goal is to provide an account of how members of such networks construct themselves as alumni. To that end, we adopt a narrative approach to identity construction and empirically explore the identity work that the members of one corporate alumni network carry out in order to sustain their identification with a past organizational setting. Our case study leads us to document four ‘identity stratagems’ (Jenkins, 1996) through which members incorporate elements of their past professional experience into their self-narratives: nostalgia, reproduction, validation and combination. It thus allows for a better understanding of corporate alumni networks and their members, while also contributing to the broader identity literature by further documenting how organizational participants can incorporate elements of a past professional experience into their self-narratives.
Effect of the blocked ratio on properties of natural fiber–waterborne blocked polyurethane composites
Authors: Li Ganghui , Li Erhao , Wang Chen , Niu Yuhua
Published: June 2014

In this paper, natural fiber/waterborne polyurethane composites were prepared from the imidazole blocked waterborne polyurethane and eucalyptus fiber mats. The related properties of blocked waterborne polyurethane and natural fiber/polyurethane composites were, respectively, measured by differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, dynamic contact angle, water absorption, and scanning electron microscope. The results showed that blocked waterborne polyurethane readily improved storage modulus ( G') and dynamic loss (tanδ) of the composites. The blocked ratio determined the density of the cross-linking structure in natural fiber/polyurethane composite and significantly affected natural fiber/polyurethane composite’s properties. With the increase of the blocked ratio, dynamic mechanical properties showed up a maximum value and the water absorption ratio reached a minimum value. The deblocking reaction of blocked waterborne polyurethane took place between 107.5℃ and 124.5℃. Due to these results, blocked waterborne polyurethane used as a matrix improved the dynamic mechanical properties of natural fiber/polyurethane composite.
Carbon nanotube-reinforced Al alloy-based nanocomposites via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Maiti A , Reddy L , Chen F , Zhang L , Schoenung JM , Lavernia EJ , Laha T
Published: June 2014

Carbon nanotubes have emerged as potential reinforcements that can be used to engineer composites with tailored combinations of physical and mechanical properties. In the present study, an Al alloy-based nanostructured composite containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) as a reinforcement phase has been synthesized by a combination of two novel processing techniques, which are cryomilling and spark plasma sintering. Scanning electron microscopy and quantitative image analysis have been performed to provide insight into the microstructural evolution and to verify the retention of the carbon nanotubes in the consolidated samples. Nanoindentation, microhardness, and tribological studies have been carried out to understand the effect of variation in MWCNT content and processing on the mechanical response of the consolidated nanocomposites. The characterization results affirm the retention of carbon nanotubes and varied improvement in mechanical properties in the nanocomposites. Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed that the MWCNTs were partially damaged during cryomilling.
Conductive TiC/Ti–Cu/C composites fabricated by Ti–Cu alloy reactive infiltration into 3D-printed carbon performs
Authors: Rambo Carlos R , Travitzky Nahum , Greil Peter
Published: June 2014

The microstructure and electrical properties of dense TiC/Ti–Cu/C composites fabricated by pressureless reactive infiltration of Ti–Cu alloy into porous starch-derived carbon preforms prepared by 3D printing was evaluated. Porosities in the range of 65–78 vol% were varied by post-isostatic pressing the as-printed preforms at pressures of 50–400 MPa. The reactive melt infiltration was carried out at 1100℃ in a flowing Ar atmosphere and resulted in formation of a composite comprised predominantly of substoichiometric TiC, binary intermetallic Ti–Cu phases and residual carbon. Scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed a microstructure consisting of dispersed fine-grained TiC in a Ti–Cu matrix surrounded by a continuous carbon phase. Electrical resistivity measurements using the four-probe method were carried out and correlated to the composite microstructure. The electrical resistivity was evaluated in terms of carbon and TiC volume fractions.
Strength of single-lap-joint assemblies of continuous unidirectional carbon fibre-reinforced thermoplastic matrix tapes under tensile loading
Authors: Machado Martín , Fischlschweiger Michael , Major Zoltan
Published: June 2014

Unidirectional tape-placement technologies appeared as a promising alternative due to their potential in large-scale component production. While the optimization strategies used to define the tape lay-out can be of different nature, the utilization of tape-to-tape joints is inevitable. Whereas several studies have focussed their efforts on the process and design stages, no study has yet addressed the influence of the manufacturing process on the mechanics of unidirectional tape joints. In this study, the strength of single-lap-joint assemblies of carbon fibre-reinforced thermoplastic tapes under tensile loading was analysed. The dependence of the strength on the overlap geometry and the manufacturing pressure was of main focus. Single-lap-joint assemblies with rectangular and rounded overlaps of the same overlap area were prepared employing a pre-heating stage at 250℃ and forming pressures from 3 to 100 bar. Failure of the assemblies was not observed on the overlap itself but instead on the zone near the overlap end on the adherend. Traditional determination of strength of single-lap-joint assemblies is not applicable in this case. Consequently, a typical Hashin failure criterion was used to model the failure of the assemblies. The study showed that although cohesive failure is not likely within the analysed pressure range, overlap geometry and forming-pressure affect the strength of single-lap-joint assemblies under tensile loading.
Preparation of Gd2O3 nano-flakes and fabrication/evaluation of their X-ray shielding rubber nanocomposites with improved mechanical properties
Authors: Mao Yingyan , Zhi Xin , Hu Shui , Ma Xiaojing , Wen Shipeng , Fong Hao , Liu Li
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to explore the development of lead-free X-ray shielding rubber nanocomposites with improved mechanical properties. In specific, gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) nano-flakes (with thickness of ∼20 nm and sizes being tens of nanometers) were first prepared via the co-precipitation spray drying method; subsequently, the prepared Gd2O3 nano-flakes were uniformly dispersed into nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) followed by vulcanization for the fabrication of flexible and lightweight X-ray shielding nanocomposites. Compared with the Gd2O3/NBR conventional composites made from a Gd2O3 powder with particle sizes in the range of 5–20 µm, the fabricated Gd2O3/NBR nanocomposites exhibited significantly higher tensile strength, Shore A hardness, and X-ray shielding properties while the rubbery characteristic (i.e. elasticity) was retained.
Work-Related Stress, Burnout, Compassion, and Work Satisfaction of Professional Workers in Vocational Rehabilitation
Authors: Tabaj Aleksandra , Pastirk Samo , Bitenc Črtomir , Masten Robert
Published: June 2014

This article presents a study of stress and stress-related issues—more specifically, those of burnout, work compassion, and job satisfaction in the population of professionals working in vocational rehabilitation in Republic of Slovenia. Our findings revealed that, on average, the professional workers experience stress as medium high. Further analyses between various subgroups of the population of professional workers revealed that fixed-term workers are under significantly more stress than permanent ones. Stress factors included high work demands, time pressure, and too many administrative tasks. Participants reported making decisions, especially making risky decisions, and the feeling of being undervalued as being the main causes of frustration at work. Main sources of stress stem from the organization of work (legislation, rules, and other institutions). The population of professional workers was also highly exposed to compassion fatigue, which was a risk factor for burnout. These findings raise questions about assertiveness and call for a systemic approach. Based on these results, those proposed activities target developing skills for effective coping with stress, both on the individual and system levels.
Monitoring moisture distribution in textile materials using grating interferometry and ptychographic X-ray imaging
Authors: Esmaeili Morteza , Fløystad Jostein B , Hipp Alexander , Willner Marian , Bech Martin , Diaz Ana , Røyset Arne , Andreasen Jens W , Pfeiffer Franz , Breiby Dag W
Published: June 2014

Employing two recently developed X-ray imaging techniques, we investigated methods for observing moisture at different length scales in organic fibers and textiles. Using the coherent diffractive imaging technique of ptychographic tomography, structural features in a single coated wool fiber in both dry and humid conditions were observed at about 200 nm resolution. The reconstructed three-dimensional images yield quantitative information about the spatial density distribution in the fiber, showing that the fiber swells laterally by 8–9% in humid conditions. We further explore the applicability of grating interferometry, also known as Talbot imaging, for studying humidity transport in woven cotton, with a resolution on the order of 100 µm and a field of view of a few square centimeters. Grating interferometry inherently gives access to three complementary imaging modalities, namely absorption-, phase- and dark-field contrast, and we demonstrate that all of them are valuable and provide complementary information for the purpose of monitoring moisture in textiles.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis of cotton treated with the TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system
Authors: Wang Mengze , Long Xiaoxia , Du Jinmei , Sun Chang , Fu Shaohai , Xu Changhai
Published: June 2014

N-[4-(triethylammoniomethyl)benzoyl]caprolactam chloride (TBCC) was used as a bleach activator for activation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in aqueous solution with the addition of sodium carbonate (NaHCO3). The TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system was applied for treatment of cotton greige fabric at 60℃ in comparison with the conventional H2O2/NaOH system for treatment of cotton greige fabric at 95℃. Experimental results showed that the TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system was effective for improving the degree of whiteness, reducing the fiber damage, and improving the water absorbency of cotton fabric. For understanding the treatment performance of the TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was applied to analyze the surface elemental composition of cotton greige fabric before and after treatment. C 1s XPS spectra and quantitative analysis revealed that the TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system improved the water absorbency of cotton fabric by removing hydrophobic matters as well as by oxidizing coloring matters and cellulose. The hexane extractions and scanning electron microscopy images indicated that the TBCC/H2O2/NaHCO3 system most likely removed the hydrophobic matters from cotton fabric in a “layer-by-layer” mode, which limited the cellulose backbones exposed for XPS analysis but allowed water to penetrate into cotton fibers.
Optimization of taper winding tension in roll-to-roll web systems
Authors: Dehui Wu , Chen Chen , Xiumiao Yang , Xuesong Li , Yimin Huang
Published: June 2014

Winding is an integral operation in almost every roll-to-roll system and the center-wound roll is one of the suitable and general schemes in a winding mechanism. The quality and performance of a center-wound roll are known to be related to the winding tension. In this paper, a novel optimization design method for winding tension using a special network structure is proposed. Firstly, based on the elasticity theory, the correlations between winding tension in the winding section and hoop stress distribution within a center-wound roll are analyzed. In addition, an analysis model for the residual stress due to the winding tension profile is developed. Then, according to the analysis model, the special network structure with back propagation training is developed to minimize the error of lateral residual stress, namely isostress-distribution. Finally, the experimental prototype of a roll-to-roll packaging system for glass-fiber fabric that can measure and control the winding tension is described, and actual experiments were carried out. Results show that the proposed method is very useful for determining the desirable taper-tension profile during the winding process and preventing defects of the center-wound roll.
Development of the compact city index and its application to Japanese cities
Authors: Lee Jungchan , Kurisu Kiyo , An Kyoungjin , Hanaki Keisuke
Published: June 2014

This study is an attempt to develop an internationally applicable compact city index that measures the performance of physical urban forms with regard to compact city policies. Based on key characteristics of the compact city that are high density, mixed land-use, and public transport systems, we formulate a new index called ‘compact city index’ (CCI) to assess urban compactness of populations, facilities and amenities centred on public transport systems at both community and city levels. Then sensitivity analyses follow simulating different scenarios varying hypothetical urban forms to check a dominant bias to specific variables in the CCI equation. Finally four types of CCI, in different measurements of time and distance, are applied to 41 middle-sized Japanese cities. It is found that cities can achieve urban compactness in the time aspect by utilisation of well-networked public transport systems, even though physical urban forms of those cities are largely sprawled.
Location or design? Associations between neighbourhood location, built environment and walking
Authors: Cho Gi-Hyoug , Rodriguez Daniel
Published: June 2014

In examining the association between environmental exposures and walking, conducting research on a neighbourhood scale has been the dominant approach whereas the association of the regional-scale environment with behaviours has rarely been explored. Because regional location and neighbourhood built environment attributes are likely to be correlated, the findings in neighbourhood-scale studies may be biased. In contrast to existing literature, this study is based on the assumption that a neighbourhood’s location may be associated with walking or physical activity and that this association may be separately identifiable from the influence of the neighbourhood built environment on behaviours. The findings indicated that residing in a highly urban location had a consistently positive association with walking and transportation-purpose physical activity when the neighbourhood built environment and individuals’ socio-demographic factors were controlled. Meanwhile the inclusion of the neighbourhood location variable did not result in significant changes to the models for recreation-purpose activity.
Structure and imagination of changing cities: Manchester, Liverpool and the spatial in-between
Authors: Dembski Sebastian
Published: June 2014

The emergence of new urban configurations – marked by enlarged scale, polycentrism and strong cities – often conflicts with the settled institutions of the ‘old’ city, with its hierarchical, centripetal development model. This model is challenged through the autonomous locational decisions of commercial and private actors, and sometimes through planning initiatives that aim to establish new planning spaces adapting to this new spatial reality, but despite this ongoing challenge, traditional conceptions of cities seem to prevail. This article offers a sociological-institutional approach to analysing how the institutions of the ‘old’ city are challenged, looking at the role of symbolic markers in planning strategies as an explanation for the institutional activation of new perceptions of the changing city. The urbanised zone of the Manchester and Liverpool city regions in the UK – where a massive investment strategy by a private-sector company has presented a new vision that challenges the entrenched positions of the two core cities – provides an excellent case study for investigating how symbolic markers spark a conflict over the meaning of two city regions that are closely linked but have thus far worked in isolation. The degree to which the meaning of existing institutions is reflected in the strategy is crucial for the success potential of establishing new governance spaces.
Going Mobile
Authors: Lamsfus Carlos , Wang Dan , Alzua-Sorzabal Aurkene , Xiang Zheng
Published: June 2014

Travel behavior is becoming inherently dynamic and socially connected because of the increasing use of mobile technologies; as such, the concept of context is becoming increasingly important in travel and tourism and particularly within today’s technology-supported mobile environment. This article builds upon existing literature describing recent developments in context-aware system design with the aim of defining the notion of context as it relates to the mobile technological environment for tourism. As part of this effort, a conceptual framework is proposed to describe the structure and fundamental properties of context, and several implications are discussed for tourism research and the design of mobile systems.
Designing an occupancy flow-based controller for airport terminals
Authors: Mambo DA , Eftekhari MM , Steffen T , Ahmad MW
Published: June 2014

One of the most cost-effective ways to save energy in commercial buildings is through designing a dedicated controller for adjusting environmental set-points according occupancy flow. This paper presents the design of a fuzzy rule-based supervisory controller for reducing energy consumptions while simultaneously providing comfort for passengers in a large airport terminal building. The inputs to the controller are the time schedule of the arrival and departure of passenger planes as well as the expected number of passengers, zone global illuminance (daylight) and external temperature. The outputs from the controller are optimised temperature, airflow and lighting set-point profiles for the building. The supervisory controller was designed based on expert knowledge in MATLAB/Simulink, and then validated using simulation studies. The simulation results demonstrate significant potential for energy savings in the controller's ability to maintain comfort by adjusting set-points according to the flow of passengers.

Practical application: The systematic approach adopted here, including the use of artificial intelligence to design supervisory controllers, can be extended to other large buildings which have variable but predictable occupancy patterns like the restricted area of the airport terminal building.
Numerical investigations on effects of seven drag reduction components in elbow and T-junction close-coupled pipes
Authors: Li A , Chen X , Chen L
Published: June 2014

Close-coupled pipes can be applied to a number of HVAC systems. This paper discusses the local drag reduction achieved by components placed in elbow and T-junction close-coupled pipes. The components are necessary to reduce or even eliminate vortices produced by turning flow patterns. It includes a numerical study of drag reduction effects of seven components with different shapes. The shear stress transport (SST) k– ω turbulence model is applied. The local pressure loss coefficients and the drag reduction rate are introduced to compare drag reduction effects. The results show that the drag reduction components studied in this paper all have varying degrees of an effect for most of the cases. Also, the drag reduction effect of components was influenced by the specific flow cases. Therefore, the selection of a suitable shape for the drag reduction component should consider the flow pattern.

Practical application: This paper has studied the local drag reduction achieved by components placed in elbow and T-junction close-coupled pipes, which can be used in the building industry. In order to find the suitable component shapes, we designed seven kinds of drag reduction components. The designs came from drag reduction technologies used in different applications such as commercial, high performance automobiles and aerofoil designs.
Is There a “Torpedo Effect” in Earnings Announcement Returns? The Role of Short-Sales Constraints and Investor Disagreement
Authors: Mashruwala Christina , Mashruwala Shamin
Published: June 2014

We predict and find that short-selling constraints combined with investor disagreement cause prices to respond more strongly to bad earnings news than to good earnings news, an asymmetry characterized by Skinner and Sloan as the “torpedo effect.” However, in the absence of short-sales constraints, the price reaction to good and bad news is entirely symmetric, regardless of the level of investor disagreement. Our findings contribute to the ongoing debate about the existence and causes of the torpedo effect. In particular, we extend Skinner and Sloan’s explanation of this effect by showing that short-selling constraints are essential for such an effect to occur; in their absence, there is no torpedo effect, even if investors are overoptimistic. Moreover, this asymmetric effect is not intrinsic to growth stocks; even value stocks are torpedoed in the presence of short-selling constraints and disagreement.
Effect of Critical Illness on Triglyceride Absorption
Authors: Ali Abdelhamid Yasmine , Cousins Caroline E. , Sim Jennifer A. , Bellon Max S. , Nguyen Nam Q. , Horowitz Michael , Chapman Marianne J. , Deane Adam M.
Published: June 2014

Background: Adequate nutrition support for critically ill patients optimizes outcome, and enteral feeding is the preferred route of nutrition. Small intestinal glucose absorption is frequently impaired in critical illness. Despite lipid being a major constituent of liquid nutrient administered, there is little information about lipid absorption during critical illness. Objectives: To determine small intestinal lipid, as well as glucose, absorption in critical illness compared with health. Materials and Methods: Twenty‐nine mechanically ventilated critically ill patients and 16 healthy volunteers were studied. Liquid nutrient (60 mL, 1 kcal/mL), containing 200 µL 13C‐triolein and 3 g 3‐O‐methyl‐glucose (3‐OMG), was infused directly into the duodenum at a rate of 2 kcal/min. Exhaled 13CO2 and serum 3‐OMG concentrations were measured at timed intervals over 360 minutes. Lipid absorption was measured as the cumulative percentage dose (cPDR) of 13CO2 recovered at 360 minutes. Glucose absorption was measured as the area under the 3‐OMG concentration curve. Data are median (range) and analyzed using the Mann‐Whitney U and Pearson correlation tests. Results: Lipid absorption was markedly less in the critically ill (cPDR13CO2: patients, 22.6% [0%–100%] vs healthy participants, 40.7% [5.3%–84.7%]; P = .018). While glucose absorption was less at 60 minutes in the critically ill (3‐OMG60: 13.2 [3.5–29.5] vs 21.1 [9.3–31.9] mmol/L·min; P = .003), this was not apparent at 360 minutes (3‐OMG360: 92.7 [54.5–147.9] vs 107.9 [64.0–168.7] mmol/L·min; P = .126). There was no relationship between lipid and glucose absorption. Conclusion: Small intestinal absorption of lipid is diminished during critical illness.
Strategies for Improving Power in School-Randomized Studies of Professional Development
Authors: Kelcey Ben , Phelps Geoffrey
Published: June 2014

Objectives:

Group-randomized designs are well suited for studies of professional development because they can accommodate programs that are delivered to intact groups (e.g., schools), the collaborative nature of professional development, and extant teacher/school assignments. Though group designs may be theoretically favorable, prior evidence has suggested that they may be challenging to conduct in professional development studies because well-powered designs will typically require large sample sizes or expect large effect sizes. Using teacher knowledge outcomes in mathematics, we investigated when and the extent to which there is evidence that covariance adjustment on a pretest, teacher certification, or demographic covariates can reduce the sample size necessary to achieve reasonable power.

Method:

Our analyses drew on multilevel models and outcomes in five different content areas for over 4,000 teachers and 2,000 schools. Using these estimates, we assessed the minimum detectable effect sizes for several school-randomized designs with and without covariance adjustment.

Results:

The analyses suggested that teachers’ knowledge is substantially clustered within schools in each of the five content areas and that covariance adjustment for a pretest or, to a lesser extent, teacher certification, has the potential to transform designs that are unreasonably large for professional development studies into viable studies.
Handoffs and Patient Safety
Authors: Birmingham Patricia , Buffum Martha D. , Blegen Mary A. , Lyndon Audrey
Published: June 2014

Effective handoff communication is critical for patient safety. Research is needed to understand how information processes occurring intra-shift impact handoff effectiveness. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine medical-surgical nurses’ ( n = 21) perspectives about processes that promote and hinder patient safety intra-shift and during handoff. Results indicated that offgoing nurses’ ability to grasp the story intra-shift was essential to convey the full picture during handoff. When oncoming nurses understood the picture being conveyed at the handoff, nurses jointly painted a full picture. Arriving and leaving the handoff with this level of information promoted patient safety. However, intra-shift disruptions often impeded nurses in their processes to grasp the story thus posing risks to patient safety. Improvement efforts need to target the different processes involved in grasping the story and painting a full picture. Future research needs to examine handoff practices and outcomes on units with good and poor practice environments.