bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human identification using dental techniques: A case report
Authors: Carneiro José Luís , Santos Agostinho , Magalhães Teresa , Afonso Américo , Caldas Inês Morais
Published: April 2014

Dental identification of skeletal remains frequently relies on data comparison. Comparative dental identification is used to establish with a high degree of certainty that the remains of a corpse and a person represented by ante-mortem dental records are the same individual. There is no minimum number of concordant points necessary to perform a positive identification; rather, each case is unique and should be treated as such. In this paper, we present a report of a case in which positive identification was made by a paramolar tubercle in both upper first deciduous molars.
Vertical cities: Representations of urban verticality in 20th-century science fiction literature
Authors: Hewitt Lucy , Graham Stephen
Published: April 2014

This paper seeks to intersect two recent trends in urban research. First, it takes seriously the recognition that established traditions of research concerned with urban space have tended to privilege the horizontal extension of cities to the neglect of their vertical or volumetric extension. Second, the paper contributes to the resurgence of interest among social scientists in the validity of fiction – and especially speculative or science fiction – as a source of critical commentary and as a mode of knowledge that can exist in close reciprocity with non-fictional work. From these two starting points the paper develops a reading of the dialogue between the representations of vertical urban life that have featured in landmark works of 20th-century science fiction literature and key themes in contemporary urban analysis.
Asymmetric buyer information influence on price in a homogeneous housing market
Authors: Zhou Xiaorong , Gibler Karen , Zahirovic-Herbert Velma
Published: April 2014

Buyers often pay different prices for almost identical houses. One possible explanation is that there are information asymmetries in housing markets. Perhaps, buyers from outside the area have higher search costs and know less about the local market relative to that of current residents. In addition, an out-of-town buyer’s price expectations could be anchored to market prices in their town of origin. This study examines the effect of buyer heterogeneity in the form of geographic location on house prices. We use a new data set to examine the non-local buyer information asymmetry and anchoring hypothesis. Using transaction data from a large development in Chengdu, China, our empirical models are estimated with relatively homogeneous units sold over a short period of time by one seller to minimise possible bias resulting from omitted variables. Our results support the hypotheses that non-local buyers pay higher prices and that high price anchoring occurs.
The Problem Is the Solution
Authors: Matsko Vince , Thomas Jerald
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this exploratory study was to assess the effect of a novel approach to mathematics instruction on gifted high school students’ engagement, motivation, and metacognition. Participants in this study included gifted students who were enrolled in a 3-year, residential, specialized mathematics and science high school. Rather than respond only to problem sets assigned by the teacher, students were asked to create original, conceptual mathematics problems at several points over an academic semester. After completing the assignment, students were administered a follow-up Likert-type scale and open-ended survey designed to assess sources of motivation and rationales for choosing a particular type of problem. No differences were found between gender or grade, but patterns of engagement, challenge, and intrinsic motivation were found in open-ended responses.
Community Leader Perceptions of the Health Needs of Older Adults
Authors: Goris Emilie Dykstra , Schutte Debra L. , Rivard Jamie L. , Schutte Brian C.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this needs assessment was to determine community leader perceptions of health-related needs and resources available to rural-dwelling older adults as part of a community–academic partnership in the rural Midwest. A community advisory board, in accordance with community-based participatory research principles, was influential in study design and implementation. Key informant interviews ( N = 30) were conducted with community leaders including professionals from schools, businesses, churches, and health care as well as government officials. Thematic analysis revealed “Family Is Central,” “Heritage,” “Strength,” and “Longevity” as important themes related to older adults and their health care needs within the community. “Close-knit” and “Church Is Central” were also identified as important aspects of elder care. Community leaders perceived the “Rural Economy,” “Distance to Resources,” and “Seasonal Resources” as significant barriers for older adults. This work contributes important insights into community leaders’ perceptions of health needs and challenges faced by older adults in rural settings.
Psychological, physiological, and behavioral responses to a partner in need
Authors: Collins Nancy L. , Kane Heidi S. , Metz Molly A. , Cleveland Christena , Khan Cynthia , Winczewski Lauren , Bowen Jeffrey , Prok Thery
Published: April 2014

This study examined the role of compassionate love (CL) in shaping cognitive, emotional, physiological, and behavioral responses to partner distress ( N = 56 couples). One member of each couple (the support provider) observed his/her partner perform an easy or difficult stress task (designed to vary signals of partner distress). Support providers in the difficult (vs. easy) condition showed more partner focus, emotional distress, and blood pressure reactivity during the task and expressed more support afterward. Support providers high (vs. low) in CL showed greater partner focus and emotional empathy and sent more caring messages. Additional analyses suggest that CL increases sensitivity to a partner’s distress and that the link between CL and support behavior is mediated by increases in empathy and attention to one’s partner.
Profile of the linguistic and metalinguistic abilities of a gifted child with autism spectrum disorder: A case study
Authors: Melogno Sergio , Pinto Maria Antonietta , Levi Gabriel
Published: April 2014

This study analyses the case of a gifted child (9;6 year) with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who had a particularly high verbal IQ (146) and a specific cognitive, linguistic, and metalinguistic profile. A description of some salient behavioral characteristics of the child is provided. A metalinguistic ability test assessing metagrammatical, metasemantic, and metaphonological abilities and a metaphor comprehension test were administered. Both tests place high value on justifications of responses, which permits investigators to grasp different levels of metalinguistic awareness. The child gave poor metalinguistic responses in subtests assessing metasemantic abilities, contrary to subtests assessing metagrammatical and metaphonological abilities. These discrepant results are interpreted in terms of this child’s specific difficulty with ‘open’ linguistic systems, such as semantics, in spite of his high ‘closed’ language capabilities. The discussion highlights the importance of assessing the meta-level of the verbal competencies of gifted children with ASD.
Occult Intra-articular Knee Injuries in Children With Hemarthrosis
Authors: Askenberger Marie , Ekström Wilhelmina , Finnbogason Thröstur , Janarv Per-Mats
Published: April 2014

Background:

Hemarthrosis after acute knee trauma is a sign of a potentially serious knee injury. Few studies have described the epidemiology and detailed injury spectrum of acute knee injuries in a general pediatric population.

Purpose:

To document the current injury spectrum of acute knee injuries with hemarthrosis in children aged 9 to 14 years and to describe the distribution of sex, age at injury, type of activity, and activity frequency in this population.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

All patients in the Stockholm County area aged 9 to 14 years who suffered acute knee trauma with hemarthrosis were referred to Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, from September 2011 to April 2012. The patients underwent clinical examination, radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The type of activity when injured, regular sports activity/frequency, and patient sex and age were registered. The diagnoses were classified into minor and serious injuries.

Results:

The study included 117 patients (47 girls and 70 boys; mean age, 13.2 years). Seventy percent had a serious knee injury. Lateral patellar dislocations, anterior cruciate ligament ruptures, and anterior tibial spine fractures were the most common injuries, with an incidence of 0.6, 0.2, and 0.1 per 1000 children, respectively. The sex distribution was equal up to age 13 years; twice as many boys were seen at the age of 14 years. The majority of injuries occurred during sports. Forty-six patients (39%) had radiographs without a bony injury but with a serious injury confirmed on MRI.

Conclusion:

Seventy percent of the patients aged 9 to 14 years with traumatic knee hemarthrosis had a serious intra-articular injury that needed specific medical attention. Fifty-six percent of these patients had no visible injury on plain radiographs. Physicians who treat this group of patients should consider MRI to establish the diagnosis when there is no or minimal radiographic findings. The most common serious knee injury was a lateral patellar dislocation. This should be taken into consideration to improve prevention strategies and treatment algorithms in pediatric knee injuries.
Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: McElvany Matthew D. , McGoldrick Erik , Gee Albert O. , Neradilek Moni Blazej , Matsen Frederick A.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Rotator cuff tears are common, and rotator cuff repair represents a major health care expense. While patients often benefit from rotator cuff repair, anatomic failure of the repair is not unusual.

Purpose:

To identify the published evidence on the factors associated with retears and with suboptimal clinical outcomes of rotator cuff repairs.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of articles with evidence levels 1-4.

Methods:

A total of 2383 articles on rotator cuff repairs published between 1980 and 2012 were identified. Only 108 of these articles, reporting on over 8011 shoulders, met the inclusion criteria of reporting quantitative data on both imaging and clinical outcomes after rotator cuff repair. Factors related to the patients, their shoulders, the procedures, and the results were systematically categorized and submitted for meta-analysis.

Results:

While the number of relevant articles published per year increased dramatically over the period of the study, the clinical and anatomic results did not show improvement over this period. The weighted mean retear rate was 26.6% at a mean of 23.7 months after surgery. Retears were associated with more fatty infiltration, larger tear size, advanced age, and double-row repairs. Clinical improvement averaged 72% of the maximum possible improvement. Patient-reported outcomes were generally improved whether or not the repair restored the integrity of the rotator cuff. The inconsistent and incomplete data in the published articles limited the meta-analysis of factors affecting the outcome of rotator cuff repair.

Conclusion:

In spite of a dramatic increase in the number of publications per year, there is little evidence that the results of rotator cuff repair are improving. The information needed to guide the management of this commonly treated and costly condition is seriously deficient. To accumulate the evidence necessary to inform practice, future clinical studies on the outcome of rotator cuff repair must report important data relating to each patient’s condition, the surgical technique, the outcome in terms of integrity, and the change in patient self-assessed comfort and function.
Evaluation of a new device for simultaneous measurement of heat flux and gas velocity in a diffusion flame
Authors: Donaldson Burl , Height Jonathan , Gill Walt , Yilmaz Nadir
Published: April 2014

This article examines potential use of a new device called multi-directional heat flux and velocity probe for simultaneous measurement of heat flux and flame speed in a diffusion flame. The probe consists of a thin-wall spherical shell with internal insulation to mitigate internal convection. Both pressure and temperature distributions around the sphere are used to indicate local velocity and heat flux. The multi-directional heat flux and velocity probe appears to be a more promising device than the bidirectional velocity probe in the sense that the sphere is a regular geometry with minimum flow separation and should lead to more predictable behavior. However, an outcome of this study is that the device must be used in conjunction with a fire code computational fluid dynamics model because the boundary layer is not isothermal so that the conventional pressure coefficient for a sphere leads to erroneous results.
What Is Successful Writing? An Investigation Into the Multiple Ways Writers Can Write Successful Essays
Authors: Crossley Scott A. , Roscoe Rod , McNamara Danielle S.
Published: April 2014

This study identifies multiple profiles of successful essays via a cluster analysis approach using linguistic features reported by a variety of natural language processing tools. The findings from the study indicate that there are four profiles of successful writers for the samples analyzed. These four profiles are linguistically distinct from one another and demonstrate that expert human raters examine a number of different linguistic features in a variety of combinations when assessing writing proficiency and assigning high scores to independent essays (regardless of the scoring rubric considered). The writing styles in the four clusters can be described as action and depiction style, academic style, accessible style, and lexical style. The study provides empirical evidence that successful writing cannot be defined simply through a single set of predefined features, but that, rather, successful writing has multiple profiles. While these profiles may overlap, each profile is distinct.
Unraveled, Untold Stories
Authors: Davis C. Amelia
Published: April 2014

In this selection, the author provides a re-representation of data that honors the voice of participants, allowing readers the opportunity to draw their own interpretations about what the participants’ lived experiences mean. Developed from a study designed to explore the lived experiences of 18- to 25-year-olds transitioning from high school into adult basic education programs, the narratives of 12 GED students are presented here in the form of an ethnodrama. The script is meant to open a space to vocalize tensions felt among the participants regarding their experiences in school and their transitions to adult education, while at the same time fracturing what adult educators believe they know about high school leavers.
A Call to Action
Authors: Kemper Carol , Northington LaDonna , Wilder Kerry , Visscher Deahna
Published: April 2014

Safety concerns regarding the verification of nasogastric feeding tube placement prompted the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition to call for an interdisciplinary, interorganizational group to work on best practices and new technologies to address this issue in pediatric patients. This commentary calls for the development of specialized teams within hospitals to improve the quality of care provided to children and infants who require nasogastric feeding tubes. It is expands on the information presented in an article in the issue by Irving et al regarding the current status of nasogastric tube placement and verification methods.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide Values Associated With Return of Spontaneous Circulation During Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Hartmann Silvia M. , Farris Reid W. D. , Di Gennaro Jane L. , Roberts Joan S.
Published: April 2014

Objective:

End-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) measurements during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) reflect variable cardiac output over time, and low values have been associated with decreased survival. The goals of this review are to confirm and quantify this relationship and to determine the mean ETCO2 value among patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) as an initial step toward determining an appropriate target for intervention during resuscitation in the absence of prospective data.

Data Sources and Study Selection:

The PubMed database was searched for the key words “end-tidal carbon dioxide” or “capnometry” or “capnography” and “resuscitation” or “return of spontaneous circulation.” Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, or case–control studies that reported ETCO2 values for participants with and without ROSC were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis:

Twenty-seven studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis. Twenty studies were included in determination of average ETCO2 values. The mean ETCO2 in participants with ROSC was 25.8 ± 9.8 mm Hg versus 13.1 ± 8.2 mm Hg ( P = .001) in those without ROSC. Nineteen studies were included in a meta-analysis. The mean difference in ETCO2 was 12.7 mm Hg (95% confidence interval: 10.3-15.1) between participants with and without ROSC ( P < .001). The mean difference in ETCO2 was not modified by the receipt of sodium bicarbonate, uncontrolled minute ventilation, or era of resuscitation guidelines. The overall quality of data by Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria is very low, but no prospective data are currently available.

Conclusions:

Participants with ROSC after CPR have statistically higher levels of ETCO2. The average ETCO2 level of 25 mm Hg in participants with ROSC is notably higher than the threshold of 10 to 20 mm Hg to improve delivery of chest compressions. The ETCO2 goals during resuscitation may be higher than previously suggested and further investigation into appropriate targets during resuscitation is needed to diminish morbidity and mortality after cardiorespiratory arrest.
A Model for Identifying Patients Who May Not Need Neurologic Intensive Care Unit Admission
Authors: Sadaka Farid , Cytron Margaret A. , Fowler Kimberly , Javaux Victoria M. , O’Brien Jacklyn
Published: April 2014

Purpose:

Limited resources, neurointensivists, and neurologic intensive care unit (neuro-ICU) beds warrant investigating models for predicting who will benefit from admission to neuro-ICU. This study presents a possible model for identifying patients who might be too well to benefit from admission to a neuro-ICU.

Methods:

We retrospectively identified all patients admitted to our 16-bed neuro-ICU between November 2009 and February 2013. We used the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) outcomes database to identify patients who on day 1 of neuro-ICU admission received 1 or more of 30 subsequent active life-supporting treatments. We compared 2 groups of patients: low-risk monitor (LRM; patients who did not receive active treatment [AT] on the first day and whose risk of ever receiving AT was ≤10%) and AT (patients who received at least 1 of the 30 ICU treatments on any day of their ICU admission).

Results:

There were 873 (46%) admissions in the LRM group and 1006 (54%) admissions in the AT group. The ICU length of stay in days was 1.7 (±1.9) for the LRM group versus 4.5 (±5.5) for the AT group. The ICU mortality was 0.8% for the LRM group compared to 14% for the AT group (odds ratio [OR] = 17.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 8.2-37.8, P < .0001). Hospital mortality was 1.9% for the LRM group compared to 19% for the AT group (OR = 9.7; 95% CI, 5.8-16.1, P < .0001).

Conclusion:

The outcome for LRM patients in our neuro-ICU suggests they may not require admission to neurologic intensive care. This may provide a measure of neuro-ICU resource use. Improved resource use and reduced costs might be achieved by strategies to provide care for these patients on floors or intermediate care units. This model will need to be validated in other neuro-ICUs and prospectively studied before it can be adopted for triaging admissions to neuro-ICUs.
Management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia in the Intensive Care Setting
Authors: Cowan Andrew J. , Altemeier William A. , Johnston Christine , Gernsheimer Terry , Becker Pamela S.
Published: April 2014

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are newly diagnosed or relapsed and those who are receiving cytotoxic chemotherapy are predisposed to conditions such as sepsis due to bacterial and fungal infections, coagulopathies, hemorrhage, metabolic abnormalities, and respiratory and renal failure. These conditions are common reasons for patients with AML to be managed in the intensive care unit (ICU). For patients with AML in the ICU, providers need to be aware of common problems and how to manage them. Understanding the pathophysiology of complications and the recent advances in risk stratification as well as newer therapy for AML are relevant to the critical care provider.
Exploring Masquerade Dress at Trinidad Carnival
Authors: Copeland Raedene , Hodges Nancy
Published: April 2014

Over the past several decades, there has been a considerable shift in the form of masquerade costumes worn during Trinidad Carnival. With the growing popularity of Carnival, there are increasing concerns about whether the modern style of costume will lead to the disappearance of Carnival s traditional meanings. This study employs an ethnographic methodology to understand dress at Carnival in the context of a 21st century global society. Data collection took place in Trinidad during the Carnival season and employed the methods of participant observation, depth interviews, and photographic documentation. Data were analyzed for emergent themes, and an interpretation of the significance of changes in masquerade costume for understanding Carnival was developed. Further research on the role of the dressed body at Trinidad Carnival is needed to fully examine the power of dress to define Carnival and shed more light on its importance.
Police Sexual Misconduct
Authors: Stinson Philip Matthew , Liederbach John , Brewer Steven L. , Mathna Brooke E.
Published: April 2014

Police sexual misconduct is often considered a hidden crime that routinely goes unreported. The current study provides empirical data on cases of sex-related police crime at law enforcement agencies across the United States. The study identifies and describes incidents where sworn law enforcement officers were arrested for one or more sex-related crimes through a quantitative content analysis of published newspaper articles and court records. The primary news information source was the Google News search engine using 48 automated Google Alerts. Data are analyzed on 548 arrest cases in the years 2005-2007 of 398 officers employed by 328 nonfederal law enforcement agencies located in 265 counties and independent cities in 43 states and the District of Columbia. Findings indicate that police sexual misconduct includes serious forms of sex-related crime and that victims of sex-related police crime are typically younger than 18 years of age.
Getting It on Record
Authors: Thompson Paul , Lashua Brett
Published: April 2014

The recording studio has been somewhat neglected as a site for ethnographic fieldwork in the field of ethno-musicology and, moreover, the majority of published studies tend to overlook the specific concerns faced by the researcher within these contexts. Music recording studios can be places of creativity, artistry, and collaboration, but they often also involve challenging, intimidating, and fractious relations. Given that recording studios are, first and foremost, concerned with documenting musicians’ performances, we discuss the concerns of getting studio interactions “on record” in terms of access, social relations, and methods of data collection. This article reflects on some of the issues we faced when conducting our fieldwork within British music recording facilities and makes suggestions based on strategies that we employed to address these issues.
Reliability and measurement accuracy of a condition monitoring system in an extreme climate: A case study of automatic laser scanning of wheel profiles
Authors: Asplund Matthias , Gustafsson Per , Nordmark Thomas , Rantatalo Matti , Palo Mikael , Famurewa Stephen Mayowa , Wandt Karina
Published: April 2014

The Iron Ore Line (Malmbanan) is a 473 km long track section located in northern Sweden and has been in operation since 1903. This track section stretches through two countries, namely Sweden and Norway, and the main part of the track runs on the Swedish side, where the owner is the Swedish Government and the infrastructure manager is Trafikverket (the Swedish Transport Administration). The ore trains are owned and managed by the freight operator and mining company LKAB. Due to the high axle load exerted by transportation of the iron ore, 30 tonnes, and the high demand for a constant flow of ore and pellets, the track and wagons must be monitored and maintained on a regular basis. The condition of the wagon wheel is one of the most important aspects in this connection, and here the wheel profile plays an important role. For this reason an automatic laser-based wheel profile monitoring system (WPMS) has been installed on this line using a system lifecycle approach that is based on the reliability, availability, maintainability and safety (RAMS) approach for railways. The system was prepared and installed and is being operated in a collaborative project between the freight operator and infrastructure manager. The measurements are used to diagnose the condition of the wheels, and to further optimize their maintenance. This paper presents a study of the concepts and ideas of the WPMS, and the selection, installation and validation of the equipment using a system lifecycle approach that is based on RAMS for railways. Results from the profile measurements and validation are shown. The system’s reliability during performance in extreme climate conditions, with severe cold and large quantities of snow, is presented. Then the benefits, perceived challenges and acquired knowledge of the system are discussed, and an improved V-model for the lifecycle approach is presented.
Multinationals and regional economies: embedding the regime shoppers?
Authors: Almond Phil , Menendez Maria Gonzalez , Gunnigle Patrick , Lavelle Jonathan , Balbona David Luque , Monaghan Sinead , Murray Gregor
Published: April 2014

In a context in which multinational corporations are increasingly able to choose their locations of production, this article examines how social and political governance actors in host regional economies attempt to attract and retain foreign direct investment. Based on a comparative study of two regions in each of Canada, Ireland, Spain and the UK, it shows both national and in some cases sub-national variations in the nature of attempts to attract and retain foreign investment, as well as in the actors involved. The article also discusses how these differences in policy interact with the characteristics of specific foreign investors. Our findings support arguments that attempts to embed regime-shopping firms are facilitated by active governance from social as well as state actors.
Searching for the superior solution to the population-based optimization problem: Processing of the wear resistant commercial AA6061 AMCs
Authors: Mazahery Ali , Shabani Mohsen Ostad , Elrefaei Ahmed
Published: April 2014

In this present work, stir casting technique was used to fabricate aluminum matrix composites with varying weight percentages of SiC (5, 10 and 15) reinforcements. The proper selection of process parameter such as pouring temperature, stirring speed, stirring time and pre-heat temperature of reinforcement can all influence the quality of the fabricated composites. The porosity level of composite should be minimized and the chemical reaction between reinforcement and matrix should be avoided. Optimization is an applied science which explores the best values of the parameters of a problem that may take under specified conditions. The execution of an optimized stir casting technique yields relatively homogenous and fine microstructure which improves the addition of reinforcement material in the molten metal. The influence of SiC content, SiC size and secondary mechanical processing with different rolling reductions on the dry sliding wear characteristics of Al matrix composites has been assessed using a pin-on-disc wear test. The porosity and hardness of the resultant composites were also examined.
Parental Acceptance and Power/Prestige as Predictors of Psychological Adjustment Among Pakistani Adolescents
Authors: Malik Farah , Butt Muhammad Mussaffa , Kausar Rukhsana , Najam Najma , Rasool Faiza
Published: April 2014

This study dealt with the impact of paternal versus maternal acceptance on the psychological adjustment of adolescents in relation to parental power and prestige within the family in the Lahore region of Pakistan. The study drew from a sample of 91 adolescents (46% males) ages 13 through 17 years ( M = 14.86). Measures used were the child version of the Parental Acceptance–Rejection Questionnaire (mother and father forms), the child version of the Personality Assessment Questionnaire, and the youth version of the Parental Power–Prestige Questionnaire. Results showed that perceived maternal and paternal acceptance were significantly correlated with adolescents’ psychological adjustment. However, neither power nor prestige was correlated with either maternal or paternal acceptance. Results of hierarchical regression analyses confirmed that adolescents’ perceptions of psychological adjustment were uniquely predicted by both maternal and paternal acceptance irrespective of either parent’s power or prestige within family.
Vibration analysis of Euler-Bernoulli beams in multiple steps and different shapes of cross section
Authors: Vaz Janaína da Cunha , de Lima Junior José Juliano
Published: April 2014

Stepped beams with elastic end supports have been extensively investigated due to their importance in structural engineering fields, including active structures, structural elements with integrated piezoelectric materials, shaft-disc system components, turbomachinery blades and many other structural configurations. Considering the importance of the use of discontinuous structures in the engineering, the authors propose a mathematic modeling which advantage is that the results are independent of the degree of mesh refinement. The analysis is based on the classical Euler-Bernoulli beam theory. In comparison with the published literature on the transverse vibration of single cross section change beams, there are relatively few works covering beam vibration when there is more than one change in the beam cross section. In the present study, the natural frequencies and the mode shapes of beams with variable geometry or material discontinuities are investigated. The mode shapes of a beam with multiple step changes in cross section are discussed theoretically and experimentally. Numerical results obtained by Euler-Bernoulli beam theory are compared with experimental results.
Spectral element method and its application in analysing the vibration band gap properties of two-dimensional square lattices
Authors: Wu Zhi-Jing , Li Feng-Ming
Published: April 2014

In this paper, the vibration band gap properties of a two-dimensional square lattice are studied using the spectral element method. Before assembling the spectral equations of whole structures, the spectral stiffness matrices of the tensional and bending elements are established. The frequency responses of the lattices are calculated and compared with those obtained by the finite element method. It can be observed that the results in the spectral element method are more accurate, especially in high frequency ranges. The frequency band gap properties are analyzed based on the accurate frequency responses. The effects of the material and structure parameters on the band gap properties are investigated.
Optimal tracking control with feedforward compensation for offshore steel jacket platforms with active mass damper mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Bao-Lin , Liu Yu-Jia , Han Qing-Long , Tang Gong-You
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the optimal tracking control methodology for an offshore steel jacket platform subject to external wave force. Based on a dynamic model of an offshore steel jacket platform with an active mass damper mechanism and a linear exogenous system model of the external wave force on the offshore platform, an optimal tracking control scheme with feedforward compensation is proposed to attenuate the wave-induced vibration of the offshore platform. A feedforward and feedback optimal tracking controller (FFOTC) can be obtained by solving an algebraic Riccati equation and a Sylvester equation, respectively. It is demonstrated that the wave-induced vibration amplitudes of the offshore platform under the FFOTC are much smaller than the ones under the feedback optimal tracking controller (FOTC) and the feedforward and feedback optimal controller (FFOC). Furthermore, the required control force under the FFOTC is smaller than the ones under the FOTC and the FFOC.
Genetic Associations With Intimate Partner Violence in a Sample of Hazardous Drinking Men in Batterer Intervention Programs
Authors: Stuart Gregory L. , McGeary John E. , Shorey Ryan C. , Knopik Valerie S. , Beaucage Kayla , Temple Jeff R.
Published: April 2014

The etiology of intimate partner violence (IPV) is multifactorial. However, etiological theories of IPV have rarely included potential genetic factors. The purpose of the present study was to examine whether a cumulative genetic score (CGS) containing the monoamine oxidase A ( MAOA) and the human serotonin transporter gene linked polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) was associated with IPV perpetration after accounting for the effects of alcohol problems, drug problems, age, and length of relationship. We obtained DNA from 97 men in batterer intervention programs in the state of Rhode Island. In the full sample, the CGS was significantly associated with physical and psychological aggression and injuries caused to one’s partner, even after controlling for the effects of alcohol problems, drug problems, age, and length of relationship. Two of the men in the sample likely had Klinefelter’s syndrome, and analyses were repeated excluding these two individuals, leading to similar results. The implications of the genetic findings for the etiology and treatment of IPV among men in batterer intervention programs are briefly discussed.
School Maladjustment and External Locus of Control Predict the Daytime Sleepiness of College Students With ADHD
Authors: Langberg Joshua M. , Dvorsky Melissa R. , Becker Stephen P. , Molitor Stephen J.
Published: April 2014

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate whether school maladjustment longitudinally predicts the daytime sleepiness of college students with ADHD above and beyond symptoms of ADHD and to determine whether internalizing dimensions mediate the relationship between maladjustment and sleepiness. Method: A prospective longitudinal study of 59 college students comprehensively diagnosed with ADHD who completed ratings at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year. Results: School maladjustment at the beginning of the year significantly predicted daytime sleepiness at the end of the year above and beyond symptoms of ADHD. Locus of control mediated the relationship between maladjustment and daytime sleepiness. Conclusion: The significant school maladjustment difficulties that students with ADHD experience following the transition to college may lead to the development of problems with daytime sleepiness, particularly for those students with high external locus of control. This pattern is likely reciprocal, whereby sleep problems in turn result in greater school impairment, reinforcing the idea that life events are outside of one’s control.
Agential multiplicity in the assisted beginnings of life
Authors: Meskus Mianna
Published: April 2014

This article explores the idea of agential multiplicity in medical treatment of childlessness. The analysis illustrates the kinds of agencies that emerge in the use of assisted reproductive technologies. The article begins with a discussion on feelings as participants in IVF treatment and as elements of women’s embodied experience. This is followed by an analysis of three consecutive steps of IVF: ovulation induction, assisted fertilization in the laboratory and embryo transfer. The article aims to show that feminist theory and praxis benefits from empirical analyses of lived bodily experiences as they take form in relation to non-human agencies. Also, it provides a view into how biological processes and material elements can be taken into account in anti-essentializing ways in feminist research.
Mapping noncapitalist supply chains: Toward an alternate conception of value creation and distribution
Authors: Safri Maliha
Published: April 2014

Organizational scholars pay insufficient attention to noncapitalist enterprises, which limits management theorizing. This article is based on a participatory action research project conducted in the town of Asbury Park in New Jersey, where community researchers attempted to map the solidarity economy of the region in order to promote a different kind of economic development. It presents the findings of the project, which involved investigating the economy and surveying collective forms of organizing in sectors such as agriculture and finance. Examining the well-developed Brazilian solidarity economy movement as contextual background, the lessons from that movement could prove useful to incipient US efforts. Using the findings of the Asbury Park project, the significance and implications of supply chains in sustaining alternative economies will be explored.
Lack of confirmation of anti-inward rectifying potassium channel 4.1 antibodies as reliable markers of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Nerrant Elodie , Salsac Céline , Charif Mahmoud , Ayrignac Xavier , Carra-Dalliere Clarisse , Castelnovo Giovanni , Goulabchand Radjiv , Tisseyre Julie , Raoul Cédric , Eliaou Jean-François , Labauge Pierre , Vincent Thierry
Published: April 2014

Background:

auto-antibodies against the potassium channel inward rectifying potassium channel 4.1 (Kir4.1) have previously been identified in 46% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objectives:

to confirm these findings.

Methods:

we evaluated the presence of anti-Kir4.1 antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunofluorescence in 268 MS patients, 46 patients with other neurological diseases (OND) and 45 healthy controls.

Results:

anti-Kir4.1 antibodies were found in 7.5% of MS patients, 4.3% of OND patients and 4.4% of healthy controls. Immunofluorescence analysis did not identify any specific staining.

Conclusions:

we confirmed the presence of anti-Kir4.1 antibodies in MS patients, but at a much lower prevalence than previously reported.
Adherence in multiple sclerosis (ADAMS): Classification, relevance, and research needs. A meeting report
Authors: Heesen Christoph , Bruce Jared , Feys Peter , Sastre-Garriga Jaume , Solari Alessandra , Eliasson Lina , Matthews Vicki , Hausmann Bettina , Ross Amy Perrin , Asano Miho , Imonen-Charalambous Kaisa , Köpke Sascha , Clyne Wendy , Bissell Paul
Published: April 2014

Background:

Adherence to medical interventions is a global problem. With an increasing amount of partially effective but expensive drug treatments adherence is increasingly relevant in multiple sclerosis (MS). Perceived lack of efficacy and side effects as well as neuropsychiatric factors such as forgetfulness, fatigue and depression are major determinants. However, research on adherence to behavioural interventions as part of rehabilitative interventions has only rarely been studied.

Methods:

In a one-day meeting health researchers as well as patient representatives and other stakeholders discussed adherence issues in MS and developed a general draft research agenda within a focus group session.

Results:

The focus group addressed four major areas: (1) focussing patients and their informal team; (2) studying health care professionals; (3) comparing practice across cultures; and (4) studying new adherence interventions.

Conclusions:

A focus on patient preferences as well as a non-judgemental discussion on adherence issues with patients should be at the core of adherence work.
Effects of realistic office daylighting and electric lighting conditions on visual comfort, alertness and mood
Authors: Borisuit A , Linhart F , Scartezzini J-L , Münch M
Published: April 2014

Lighting conditions in workplaces contribute to a variety of factors related to work satisfaction, productivity and well-being. We tested whether different photometric variables also influence visual perception and the comfort of the lighting, as well as subjective non-visual variables such as mood, alertness and well-being. Twenty-five young subjects spent two afternoons either under electric light or daylighting conditions (without view from the window). Subjects overall preferred the daylighting for visual acceptance and glare. Changes of photometric variables modulated changes in visual light perception, alertness and mood in the course of the afternoon. Finally, we found several associations of visual and non-visual functions, indicating a potential relationship of visual comfort with other circadian and wake-dependent functions in humans, which consequently could impact office lighting scenarios in the future.
Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication Effective in Eliminating GERD Symptoms in Partial Responders to Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy at 6 Months
Authors: Trad Karim S. , Barnes William E. , Simoni Gilbert , Shughoury Ahmad B. , Mavrelis Peter G. , Raza Mamoon , Heise Jeffrey A. , Turgeon Daniel G. , Fox Mark A.
Published: April 2014

Background. Incomplete control of troublesome regurgitation and extraesophageal manifestations of chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a known limitation of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy. This multicenter randomized study compared the efficacy of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) against PPIs in controlling these symptoms in patients with small hiatal hernias. Methods. Between June and August 2012, 63 patients were randomized at 7 US community hospitals. Patients in the PPI group were placed on maximum standard dose (MSD). Patients in the TIF group underwent esophagogastric fundoplication using the EsophyX2 device. Primary outcome was elimination of daily troublesome regurgitation or extraesophageal symptoms. Secondary outcomes were normalization of esophageal acid exposure (EAE), PPI usage and healing of esophagitis. Results. Of 63 randomized patients (40 TIF and 23 PPI), 3 were lost to follow-up leaving 39 TIF and 21 PPI patients for analysis. At 6-month follow-up, troublesome regurgitation was eliminated in 97% of TIF patients versus 50% of PPI patients, relative risk (RR) = 1.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.2-3.11 ( P = .006). Globally, 62% of TIF patients experienced elimination of regurgitation and extraesophageal symptoms versus 5% of PPI patients, RR = 12.9, 95% CI = 1.9-88.9 ( P = .009). EAE was normalized in 54% of TIF patients (off PPIs) versus 52% of PPI patients (on MSD), RR = 1.0, 95% CI = 0.6-1.7 ( P = .914). Ninety percent of TIF patients were off PPIs. Conclusion. At 6-month follow-up, TIF was more effective than MSD PPI therapy in eliminating troublesome regurgitation and extraesophageal symptoms of GERD.
Advancements in identifying biomechanical determinants for abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture
Authors: Kontopodis Nikolaos , Metaxa Eleni , Papaharilaou Yannis , Tavlas Emmanouil , Tsetis Dimitrios , Ioannou Christos
Published: April 2014

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are a common health problem and currently the need for surgical intervention is determined based on maximum diameter and growth rate criteria. Since these universal variables often fail to predict accurately every abdominal aortic aneurysms evolution, there is a considerable effort in the literature for other markers to be identified towards individualized rupture risk estimations and growth rate predictions. To this effort, biomechanical tools have been extensively used since abdominal aortic aneurysm rupture is in fact a material failure of the diseased arterial wall to compensate the stress acting on it. The peak wall stress, the role of the unique geometry of every individual abdominal aortic aneurysm as well as the mechanical properties and the local strength of the degenerated aneurysmal wall, all confer to rupture risk. In this review article, the assessment of these variables through mechanical testing, advanced imaging and computational modeling is reviewed and the clinical perspective is discussed.
Promoción de la salud ambiental: acercamiento de dos campos. El caso de México
Authors: Alamo-Hernández Urinda , Riojas-Rodríguez Horacio , Baltazar-Reyes Mary Carmen , O’Neill Michel
Published: April 2014

En México, al igual que en otras regiones del mundo, se presentan desafíos complejos en salud ambiental que requieren de nuevos enfoques integradores, participativos e interdisciplinarios. El propósito de este artículo es mostrar las ventajas que puede aportar el campo de la promoción de la salud al de la salud ambiental para afrontar estos desafíos. Se abordan de manera general y particularmente para el caso de México las principales características de los dos campos. Además se discuten algunas de las diferencias epistemológicas y metodológicas que dificultan el acercamiento de las dos áreas y la utilidad de un concepto o campo de promoción de la salud ambiental. Finalmente se propone un modelo conceptual que permite visualizar los principales elementos a tomar en cuenta para investigaciones o intervenciones en promoción de la salud ambiental. Y se dan ejemplos de acciones en promoción de la salud ambiental en México, usando el modelo planteado.
Les campagnes communautaires de promotion du depistage VIH en Afrique de l’Ouest : perceptions des usagers au Burkina Faso
Authors: Desclaux Alice , Ky-Zerbo Odette , Somé Jean-François , Makhlouf-Obermeyer Carla
Published: April 2014

La politique actuelle de lutte contre le sida qui repose sur l’extension de l’accès aux traitements et à la prévention exige qu’une proportion élevée de la population connaisse son statut en matière de VIH. Pour cela, l’OMS a proposé le développement de stratégies communautaires délivrant le dépistage et le conseil au-delà des services de soins, comme le test à domicile ou les campagnes de sensibilisation et dépistage de grande envergure, appliqués en Afrique australe et de l’Est. Pour définir les stratégies pertinentes dans des régions de basse prévalence comme l’Afrique de l’Ouest, les expériences communautaires de promotion du dépistage doivent y être évaluées. Cet article présente une évaluation des campagnes au Burkina Faso du point de vue des usagers. Dans le cadre d’un projet sur les pratiques et l’éthique du dépistage dans quatre pays africains (MATCH), une enquête qualitative spécifique a été menée pendant la campagne de 2008, auprès de personnes ayant fait le test pendant la campagne, ayant fait le test hors campagne ou n’ayant pas fait le test. Les appréciations sont globalement très favorables aux campagnes, notamment à cause de l’information dispensée, l’accessibilité des sites, la gratuité du test, la qualité des services et l’effet d’entrainement. Les limites ou critiques sont essentiellement liées à l’affluence ou à la crainte de ne pas être soutenu en cas de résultat positif. La démarche de recours au test ne fait plus l’objet de suspicion, au moins pendant la campagne. Cette « normalisation » du recours au test et la mobilisation collective facilitent des pratiques en groupe, ce qui peut rendre difficile de garder son statut VIH secret. L’évaluation des campagnes par les usagers les présente comme une opportunité pour accéder facilement au test et pour communiquer à ce sujet dans divers espaces sociaux à partir des informations délivrées sur le VIH.