bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demonstrating the Correspondence Bias
Authors: Howell Jennifer L. , Shepperd James A.
Published: February 2012

The authors describe a classroom-based demonstration of the correspondence bias—the tendency for observers to make dispositional attributions for an actor’s behavior. The demonstration is memorable, effective, takes roughly 5 minutes, and produced improvement in understanding of the bias.
Practice Makes Perfect
Authors: Estow Sarah , Lawrence Eva K. , Adams Kathrynn A.
Published: February 2012

To address the issue of plagiarism, students in two undergraduate Research Methods and Analysis courses conducted, analyzed, and wrote up original research on the topic of plagiarism. Students in an otherwise identical course completed the same assignments but examined a different research topic. At the start and end of the semester, all students ( n = 44) completed a homework assignment assessing plagiarism knowledge and paraphrasing skills. Students in the plagiarism-themed courses showed improvement in both knowledge and skills, and the strategies they suggested for avoiding plagiarism became more sophisticated as did the reasons for avoiding plagiarism. The control group did not show the same improvements. Results suggest repeated hands-on exposure to the topic of plagiarism improves plagiarism avoidance and understanding.
Using Facebook to Connect Alumni, Current Students, and Faculty
Authors: Lawson Timothy J. , Kleinholz Sherrie A. , Bodle James H.
Published: February 2012

Maintaining contact with alumni can result in a number of benefits for psychology departments. For example, alumni may give feedback useful for curriculum assessment and departmental planning, assist with recruiting, and provide current students with information about jobs and graduate school. The authors describe a Facebook group they created for their department to connect alumni, current students, and faculty. A year later, members evaluated the site. Respondents agreed that it was a valuable resource, but current students rated it higher than did alumni. The authors discuss features the members enjoyed and ideas for improving the site.
Multiple-Choice and Short-Answer Exam Performance in a College Classroom
Authors: Funk Steven C. , Dickson K. Laurie
Published: February 2012

The authors experimentally investigated the effects of multiple-choice and short-answer format exam items on exam performance in a college classroom. They randomly assigned 50 students to take a 10-item short-answer pretest or posttest on two 50-item multiple-choice exams in an introduction to personality course. Students performed significantly better on items presented in a multiple-choice format. The high internal validity achieved with matched test items, manipulation of item type order, and manipulation of student expectancy across exams was complemented by high external validity and pedagogical ecology afforded by the college classroom, extending previous laboratory findings. Performance on multiple-choice exams may provide inaccurate information to instructors concerning student learning and overestimate students' learning of course information.
Facilitating Self-Regulated Learning With Technology
Authors: Barber Larissa K. , Bagsby Patricia G. , Grawitch Matthew J. , Buerck John P.
Published: February 2012

The authors examined the extent to which student access to the MyGrade application in Blackboard may facilitate motivation and exam improvement via grade monitoring. In support of self-regulated learning and feedback principles, students indicated that the MyGrade application helped them better monitor their course performance and increased their motivation to study and pay attention in class. Access statistics for the MyGrade application in two undergraduate psychology courses revealed that students who viewed their grades weekly or more significantly improved their exam scores compared with those who accessed their grades less than weekly. These effects were robust when controlling for student characteristics (ability, experience, self-control) and class attendance. The authors discuss implications for the role of technology in facilitating self-regulated learning.
The Canadian Home Total Parenteral Nutrition (HTPN) Registry
Authors: Aljarallah Badr , Fernandes Gail , Jeejeebhoy Khursheed N. , Gramlich Leah M. , Whittaker J. S. , Armstrong David , Duerksen Don R. , Allard Johane P.
Published: February 2012

Background: Vitamin K supplementation improves bone health, and its absence might be associated with low bone mineral density (BMD). The authors aim to assess vitamin K supplementation practices in Canadian home parenteral nutrition (HPN) programs and their relationship with BMD. Methods: This is a cross‐sectional study of 189 patients from the Canadian HPN registry. Results: All 189 patients studied received M.V.I.‐12, which does not contain vitamin K. Of those, 41.3% were supplemented with 10 mg of intravenous vitamin K (VK+) weekly, whereas the others did not receive vitamin K except via lipid emulsion (VK−). Short bowel syndrome accounted for 69% of VK+ and 46% of VK− patients. On univariate analysis, VK+ patients had substantially lower body mass index (BMI) and received lower bisphosphonate infusion than did VK−patients. There were no statistically significant differences in HPN calcium or lipid content, liver function test results, age, sex, or reason for HPN between the 2 groups. Patients who were VK+ had higher lumbar spine T scores and hip T scores than did VK−patients. General linear modeling analysis, adjusted for BMI, age, PN magnesium, PN phosphate, PN calcium, and bisphosphonate as possible predictors of BMD, showed a trend toward better hip T scores (P = .063) for VK+ patients compared with VK− patients. Conclusion: In HPN patients supplemented with vitamin K, the trend toward a better hip BMD compared with no supplementation suggests a role for vitamin K in preserving BMD. This requires further study.
Oxidative Stress
Authors: Preiser Jean‐Charles
Published: February 2012

Oxidative stress is defined by an imbalance between increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and a low activity of antioxidant mechanisms. An increased oxidative stress can induce damage to the cellular structure and potentially destroy tissues. However, ROS are needed for adequate cell function, including the production of energy by the mitochondria. Increased oxidative stress has been incriminated in physiological conditions, such as aging and exercise, and in several pathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, inflammatory diseases, and intoxications. However, prevention by antioxidants has been mostly inefficient. Therefore, a rigorous scientific evaluation in well‐defined conditions is mandatory to define the appropriate place for manipulations of the oxidative pathways in human medicine.
Parenteral Nutrition Prescribing Processes Using Computerized Prescriber Order Entry
Authors: Hilmas Elora , Peoples Joseph D.
Published: February 2012

The prescribing and processing of parenteral nutrition (PN) orders for pediatric patients may involve multiple steps, be time‐consuming, and have opportunity for error if safety measures are not in place. The process can vary from institution to institution. The authors conducted a comparison of their system for the prescribing and processing of PN orders with the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition's (A.S.P.E.N.'s) Safe Practices for Parenteral Nutrition guidelines. Using a computerized prescriber order entry (CPOE) system allowed for compliance with most of the elements. The safety data demonstrated an overall low rate of transcription errors, an inherent risk when the CPOE system does not communicate directly with the automated compounding device (ACD). There was a 5% overall pharmacist intervention rate on PNs, similar to the 6%–8% rate seen with other medications. Approximately 6% of these PN interventions had an outcome associated with preventing an adverse drug reaction, toxicity, or medication error. Implementation of additional safety measures and standardization may have a positive impact on the complicated process of prescribing and processing PN orders at the authors' institution.
The PPARα Agonists Fenofibrate and CP-778875 Cause Increased β-Oxidation, Leading to Oxidative Injury in Skeletal and Cardiac Muscle in the Rat
Authors: Pettersen John C. , Pruimboom-Brees Ingrid , Francone Omar L. , Amacher David E. , Boldt Sherri E. , Kerlin Roy L. , Ballinger William E.
Published: February 2012

Weak peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor (PPAR) α agonists (fibrates) are used to treat dyslipidemia. This study compared the effects of the potent and selective PPARα agonist CP-778875 on peroxisomal β-oxidation and cardiac and/or skeletal muscle injury with those of the weak PPARα agonist fenofibrate. We hypothesized that these muscle effects are mediated through the PPARα receptor, leading to increased β-oxidation and consequent oxidative stress. CP-778875 (5 or 500 mg/kg) and fenofibrate (600 or 2,000→1,200 mg/kg, dose lowered because of intolerance) were administered to rats for six weeks. Standard end points, serum troponin I, heart and skeletal muscle β-oxidation of palmitoyl-CoA, and acyl co-oxidase (AOX) mRNA were assessed. Both compounds dose-dependently increased the incidence and/or severity of cardiomyocyte degeneration and necrosis, heart weight, troponin I, and skeletal muscle degeneration. Mean heart β-oxidation (3.4- to 5.1-fold control) and AOX mRNA (2.4- to 3.2-fold control) were increased with CP-778875 500 mg/kg and both doses of fenofibrate. β-Oxidation of skeletal muscle was not affected by either compound; however, a significant increase in AOX mRNA (1.6- to 2.1-fold control) was observed with CP-778875 500 mg/kg and both doses of fenofibrate. Taken together, these findings were consistent with PPARα agonism and support the link between increased cardiac and skeletal muscle β-oxidation and resultant muscle injury in the rat.
Advance II
Authors: Marple Bradley F. , Smith Timothy L. , Han Joseph K. , Gould Andrew R. , Jampel Henry D. , Stambaugh James W. , Mugglin Andrew S.
Published: February 2012

Objective

Endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) may be compromised by postoperative inflammation, polyposis, and adhesions, often requiring subsequent intervention. To address this issue, the authors investigated the safety and effectiveness of controlled delivery of mometasone furoate to the sinus mucosa via bioabsorbable implants deployed at the time of ESS.

Study Design

Prospective, multicenter, randomized, controlled, double‐blind trial using an intrapatient control design.

Setting

Otolaryngology–head and neck surgery centers; both academic and private practices.

Subjects and Methods

The study enrolled 105 patients with CRS undergoing bilateral ethmoidectomy to compare the effect of drug‐releasing to non‐drug‐releasing implants using an intrapatient control design. Postoperative interventions, polyposis, and adhesions were assessed postoperatively. Efficacy was determined through independent analysis of randomized video‐endoscopies by 3 blinded sinus surgeons. Safety assessments included ocular examinations.

Results

Implants were successfully deployed in all 210 ethmoid sinuses. Compared with control sinuses with non‐drug‐releasing implants, the drug‐releasing implant provided a 29.0% relative reduction in postoperative interventions (P=. 028) and a 52% (P=. 005) decrease in lysis of adhesions. The relative reduction in frank polyposis was 44.9% (P=. 002). Similar reductions were observed in real‐time grading performed by the clinical investigators. No clinically significant changes from baseline in intraocular pressure or cataracts were observed.

Conclusion

This study provides a high level of evidence that use of steroid‐releasing implants that apply a sustained release of corticosteroid improves surgical outcomes by reducing synechiae formation, polyposis, and the need for postoperative interventions, with no observable ocular safety risk.
Evidence of Maxillary Sinus Inflammation in Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Baroody Fuad M. , Mucha Samantha M. , deTineo Marcy , Naclerio Robert M.
Published: February 2012

Objective

Allergic rhinitis has been frequently associated with both acute and chronic sinusitis. Previous studies have shown an influx of eosinophils into the maxillary sinus after nasal challenge with allergen. The objective of this study was to determine, in humans, if the development of seasonal allergic inflammation, secondary to natural allergen exposure, leads to similar inflammation within the maxillary sinus.

Study Design

Prospective, longitudinal study.

Setting

Academic medical center and research laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Eighteen subjects were evaluated in and out of the ragweed allergy season using subjective measures (nasal symptoms, quality of life), nasal secretory response to methacholine challenge, and evaluation of biomarkers in nasal and sinus lavages.

Results

The subjects became symptomatic during the season and reported worse quality of life and increased nasal reactivity to methacholine. The total number of eosinophils obtained by nasal lavage during the season (median= 35,691) was significantly higher compared with out of season (median = 2811, P ≤. 02). Similarly, there were significantly more eosinophils, albeit to a lesser magnitude, in the maxillary sinus during the season (median = 4248) compared with the out‐of‐season samples (median = 370, P ≤. 02).

Conclusion

The authors provide evidence that natural exposure to pollen during an individual’s allergy season leads to both nasal and sinus inflammation, strengthening the association between allergic rhinitis and sinusitis. The mechanism of this inflammatory response needs to be elucidated.
Catalytic mechanisms for promoting ICT investment and use in cassava value chains in south-western Nigeria
Authors: Tiamiyu Mutawakilu A. , Bankole Abiodun S. , Agbonlahor Rosemary O.
Published: February 2012

The transformation of African agriculture with modern technologies, including information and communication technology (ICT) has been proposed as the required strategy for improving agricultural and rural economies of African countries. In this direction, this study investigated the catalysts and impact of ICT investment, ownership and use in the cassava value chain in south-western Nigeria. The study used in-depth structured interviews to collect data from 139 cassava growers, processors and marketers. Snowball and random sampling were used to select the respondents. A model was articulated to capture the catalytic and transmission processes in ICT investment and use in the cassava value chain. It predicts that in value chains dominated by small and medium enterprises (SME), ICT investments are unlikely to progress beyond basic low-end ICT unless there is expanded market demand for output of the SME. The model highlights key process points that policy may target in order to improve the use of ICT by SME to leverage their value chain activities.
Students’ perceptions of academic use of social networking sites: a survey of university students in Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan Israt , Ahmed S.M. Zabed
Published: February 2012

Reports the results of perceptions of academic use of social networking sites (SNSs) by students of the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. A survey questionnaire was designed and distributed to gather data for this study. The results indicate a positive attitude towards academic use of SNSs by the students. Although there are some differences in terms of students’ opinions on academic applications of SNSs, these differences are largely due to the fact that the use of these sites in academic contexts is not well-defined. The higher academic institutions need to devise appropriate policies and strategies on how they can utilize social networking sites to support education and learning beyond the classroom.
Hyper-local news: A glue to hold rural communities together?
Authors: Baines David
Published: February 2012

A growing body of research interrogates the implementation of communication infrastructures such as broadband connectivity in rural areas, but little has been undertaken into the potential for collaborative production of ‘local news’ to generate Habermasian public spheres supportive of sustainability. European and US media organizations are developing such ‘hyper-local news sites’ to serve small rural and urban communities. This article uses a case study of a rural hyper-local project launched by a major regional media company in England’s most sparsely-populated county, Northumberland, to help establish ‘more sustainable communities’. Such sites are usually conceived of as ‘town criers’ but being web based, they position communities both locally and globally, a process which has been conceptualized as ‘glocalization’. The article is informed by theoretical understandings of communicative spaces and places, monitorial citizenship and ‘liquid life’ and journalism developed by Jurgen Habermas, Michael Schudson, Zygmunt Bauman, Mark Deuze and Manuel Castells.
Can social enterprise contribute to creating sustainable rural communities? Using the lens of structuration theory to analyse the emergence of rural social enterprise
Authors: Steinerowski Artur A , Steinerowska-Streb Izabella
Published: February 2012

Recent public policies increasingly emphasize the role of communities in service co-production. Collaboration between the state and the public is frequently associated with social enterprise activities. However, the assumption that social enterprises can be successfully built and developed in remote and rural areas might be faulty. Current policy does not recognize contextual factors relating to rural social enterprise development. Drawing on a qualitative study in the Highlands of Scotland the article questions the role of social enterprise in creating sustainable rural communities; it presents promoters and barriers to rural social enterprise development. Findings suggest that although rural communities do not control all the conditions that affect them, they have the ability to adapt to some structural features. This means that in spite of social and economic challenges, rural communities might benefit from rural social enterprise through practising ‘adaptive capacity’.
Does the quality of websites vary by location? A study of urban and rural small firms in Scotland
Authors: Sanders John , Galloway Laura
Published: February 2012

Documents a study of the usefulness and quality of websites of small firms in urban and rural areas in Scotland using an adapted Web Assessment Index, originally developed by Gonzalez and Palacios. Contrary to the theoretical gap between practice quality in urban and rural small firms, website quality is comparable in urban and rural small businesses. Well-designed sites are rich in content, easily accessible and have fast download speeds. Findings suggest that the WAI would be a useful tool for small firms in terms of encouraging business owners/managers to focus on the various factors that impact on the quality and effectiveness of their websites.
The Continuum of Learner Disengagement
Authors: Hunter-Jones Philippa
Published: February 2012

This article explores the changing worldview of a new generation of learners and the threat that this poses to the future of experiential learning (EL). Initially the differing characteristics of three generations of learners, X, Y, and Z, are outlined, along with key educational reforms they have been subject to, particularly in the United Kingdom, the case study location. Following this, a series of ethnographic EL snapshots, collected between 1991 and 2010, are used to develop a continuum of learner disengagement. This continuum includes academically challenged, ambivalent, and formulaic learners. Of these, it is the formulaic learner who presents the greatest threat to EL. This is a discerning and discriminating learner who wishes to be in control of his or her own achievements and who sees EL activities as a threat to his or her success. Practical ways of responding to the changing EL landscape are proposed. These proposals include moving away from a linear learning experience, embracing EL projects that capitalize on learner technological capabilities, and reviewing the timing and conditions within which EL activities are situated.
Grasp invariance
Authors: Rodriguez Alberto , Mason Matthew T
Published: February 2012

This paper introduces a principle to guide the design of finger form: invariance of contact geometry over some continuum of varying shape and/or pose of the grasped object in the plane. Specific applications of this principle include scale-invariant and pose-invariant grasps. Under specific conditions, the principle gives rise to spiral shaped fingers, including logarithmic spirals and straight lines as special cases. The paper presents a general technique to solve for finger form, given a continuum of shape or pose variation and a property to be held invariant. We apply the technique to derive scale-invariant and pose-invariant grasps for disks, and we also explore the principle’s application to many common devices from jar wrenches to rock-climbing cams.
Running Activity After Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty
Authors: Fouilleron Nicolas , Wavreille Guillaume , Endjah Nima , Girard Julien
Published: February 2012

Background: The ability to return to sports activities (especially running) after hip resurfacing arthroplasty seems to be very important for young and active patients who have developed osteoarthritis.

Purpose: To assess the quality of return to sports after hip resurfacing arthroplasty by examining the time spent running, weekly mileage, and the possibility of returning to competition in a series of patients.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: A prospective, consecutive series of 202 patients (215 hip resurfacings) was assessed to evaluate the possible resumption of running activity (time spent, weekly mileage, return to competition). Of this initial cohort, 40 patients (43 resurfacings, 21%) practiced running preoperatively. Mean age at hip resurfacing arthroplasty was 50.7 years (range, 31-61 years). No patients underwent revision surgery. A questionnaire was administered to assess the number, type, and level of sports activities. Among patients who practiced running, we determined, preoperatively and at last follow-up, their weekly mileage and whether they were competitors.

Results: At last follow-up, 33 of 40 patients (36/43 hips) still practiced running ( P = .74), with 91.6% of them resuming running. Mean average recovery time before running at a level assessed as good by patients was 16.4 weeks (range, 5-36 weeks). The number of patients running more than 4 hours per week increased from 18 to 23. Similarly, the time devoted to running at last follow-up remained high (mean, 3.1 hours per week) with no statistically significant difference from the preoperative period ( P = .54). Moreover, patients were still engaged in competition without statistical difference between the 2 periods ( P = .82).

Conclusion: Running is possible after hip resurfacing, and runners can even return to some level of competition, but this short follow-up series of hip resurfacing in athletes should be interpreted with caution regarding implant survival.
Proposed remedies for some developmental disorders
Authors: Ibrahim Khadiga S , El-Sayed Eman M
Published: February 2012

Developmental disorders (DDs) are important leading cause of disability in developed countries and also in the United States. DDs are a group of individual conditions that result from abnormal nervous system development and cause altered function. They can begin at any time from prenatal to 22 years of age and the disability usually presents itself throughout a person's life time. Down syndrome, autism, neural tube defects, schizophrenia, cretinism, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder are among the most common DDs that currently plague numerous countries and have varying incidence rates. Their occurrence may be partially attributable to the lack of certain dietary nutrients. Notably, essential vitamins, minerals, and ω-3 fatty acids are often deficient in the general population of America and developed countries and are exceptionally deficient in patients suffering from mental disorders. Typically, most of these disorders are treated with prescription drugs, but many of these drugs cause unwanted side effects. Therefore, psychiatrists recommend alternative or complementary nutritional remedies to overcome the adverse effects of those drugs. Studies have shown that daily supplements of vital nutrients, such as that contain amino acids, often effectively reduce symptoms of the patients, because they are converted into neurotransmitters that alleviate depression and other mental disorders. The aim of this article is to discuss the role of dietary imbalances in the incidence of DD and to emphasize which dietary supplements can aid in the treatment of the above-mentioned DD.
Exploring Sleepiness and Entrainment on Permanent Shift Schedules in a Physiologically Based Model
Authors: Postnova Svetlana , Layden Andrew , Robinson Peter A. , Phillips Andrew J.K. , Abeysuriya Romesh G.
Published: February 2012

The effects of permanent shift work on entrainment and sleepiness are examined using a mathematical model that combines a model of sleep-wake switch in the brain with a model of the human circadian pacemaker entrained by light and nonphotic inputs. The model is applied to 8-hour permanent shift schedules to understand the basic mechanisms underlying changes of entrainment and sleepiness. Average sleepiness is shown to increase during the first days on the night and evening schedules, that is, shift start times between 0000 to 0700 h and 1500 to 2200 h, respectively. After the initial increase, sleepiness decreases and stabilizes via circadian re-entrainment to the cues provided by the shifts. The increase in sleepiness until entrainment is achieved is strongly correlated with the phase difference between a circadian oscillator entrained to the ambient light and one entrained to the shift schedule. The higher this phase difference, the larger the initial increase in sleepiness. When entrainment is achieved, sleepiness stabilizes and is the same for different shift onsets within the night or evening schedules. The simulations reveal the presence of a critical shift onset around 2300 h that separates schedules, leading to phase advance (night shifts) and phase delay (evening shifts) of the circadian pacemaker. Shifts starting around this time take longest to entrain and are expected to be the worst for long-term sleepiness and well-being of the workers. Surprisingly, we have found that the circadian pacemaker entrains faster to night schedules than to evening ones. This is explained by the longer photoperiod on night schedules compared to evening. In practice, this phenomenon is difficult to see due to days off on which workers switch to free sleep-wake activity. With weekends, the model predicts that entrainment is never achieved on evening and night schedules unless the workers follow the same sleep routine during weekends as during work days. Overall, the model supports experimental observations, providing new insights into the mechanisms and allowing the examination of conditions that are not accessible experimentally.
The Ability to Entrain to Long Photoperiods Differs between 3 Drosophila melanogaster Wild-Type Strains and Is Modified by Twilight Simulation
Authors: Rieger Dirk , Peschel Nicolai , Dusik Verena , Glotz Silvia , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: February 2012

The ability to adapt to different environmental conditions including seasonal changes is a key feature of the circadian clock. Here, we compared the ability of 3 Drosophila melanogaster wild-type strains to adapt rhythmic activity to long photoperiods simulated in the laboratory. Fruit flies are predominantly crepuscular with activity bouts in the morning (M) and evening (E). The M peak follows dawn and the E peak follows dusk when the photoperiod is extended. We show that this ability is restricted to a certain extension of the phase angle between M and E peaks, such that the E peak does not delay beyond a certain phase under long days. We demonstrate that this ability is significantly improved by simulated twilight and that it depends additionally on the genetic background and the ambient temperature. At 20 °C, the laboratory strain CantonS had the most flexible phase angle between M and E peaks, a Northern wild-type strain had an intermediate one, and a Southern wild-type strain had the lowest flexibility. Furthermore, we found that the 3 strains differed in clock light sensitivity, with the CantonS and the Northern strains more light sensitive than the Southern strain. These results are generally in accord with the recently discovered polymorphisms in the timeless gene ( tim) that affect clock light sensitivity.
Human Nonvisual Responses to Simultaneous Presentation of Blue and Red Monochromatic Light
Authors: Papamichael Christiana , Skene Debra J. , Revell Victoria L.
Published: February 2012

Blue light sensitivity of melatonin suppression and subjective mood and alertness responses in humans is recognized as being melanopsin based. Observations that long-wavelength (red) light can potentiate responses to subsequent short-wavelength (blue) light have been attributed to the bistable nature of melanopsin whereby it forms stable associations with both 11-cis and all-trans isoforms of retinaldehyde and uses light to transition between these states. The current study examined the effect of concurrent administration of blue and red monochromatic light, as would occur in real-world white light, on acute melatonin suppression and subjective mood and alertness responses in humans. Young healthy men (18-35 years; n = 21) were studied in highly controlled laboratory sessions that included an individually timed 30-min light stimulus of blue (λmax 479 nm) or red (λmax 627 nm) monochromatic light at varying intensities (1013-1014 photons/cm2/sec) presented, either alone or in combination, in a within-subject randomized design. Plasma melatonin levels and subjective mood and alertness were assessed at regular intervals relative to the light stimulus. Subjective alertness levels were elevated after light onset irrespective of light wavelength or irradiance. For melatonin suppression, a significant irradiance response was observed with blue light. Co-administration of red light, at any of the irradiances tested, did not significantly alter the response to blue light alone. Under the current experimental conditions, the primary determinant of the melatonin suppression response was the irradiance of blue 479 nm light, and this was unaffected by simultaneous red light administration.
Determinant Factors of the Viscosity of Enteral Formulas
Authors: Wakita Maki , Masui Hironori , Ichimaru Satomi , Amagai Teruyoshi
Published: February 2012

Background: Thickened enteral formula (TEF), which is made by adding thickener to enteral formula, has been used mainly in Japan to reduce the incidence of clinical complications associated with enteral nutrition. However, the optimal viscosity of TEF needed to achieve a high efficiency is different for each medical complication and for individual patients. Methods: The viscosity of TEF, which consists of enteral formula and thickener, was determined by 5 factors: (1) formula energy density, (2) formula temperature, (3) stirring speed, (4) stirring time, and (5) time elapsed since preparation. Then, the changing index (CI) was calculated for each of the 5 factors to determine which exerts the most influence on TEF viscosities. Results: The most influential factor (CI ≥−50%) for the decrease in TEF viscosity was formula energy density. In contrast, the most influential factors (CI ≥50%) for the increase in TEF viscosity were stirring time and time elapsed since preparation. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that formula energy density, stirring time, and time elapsed since preparation are the most influential factors to consider during manipulation of TEF viscosity.
Refeeding Syndrome or Refeeding Hypophosphatemia
Authors: Skipper Annalynn
Published: February 2012

Nutrition support clinicians refer to the abnormalities in laboratory data and changes in clinical signs and symptoms that follow refeeding of starved or malnourished patients as refeeding syndrome. Theoretical descriptions of refeeding syndrome include a complex and extensive list of changes, such as hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypocalcemia, hyperglycemia, and vitamin deficiency—all of which are accompanied by clinical signs and symptoms. In practice, clinicians see asymptomatic refeeding hypophosphatemia more often than a full‐blown syndrome with multiple laboratory and clinical abnormalities. Confusion results because there is no widely accepted or uniformly applied set of defining characteristics for diagnosing refeeding syndrome. To gain insight into the clinical characteristics of refeeding syndrome described in the literature, a systematic review of reported cases and case series was conducted. Since 2000, 20 authors described 27 cases that contained sufficient data for review. Hypophosphatemia occurred in 26 patients (96%). While 19 patients (71%) experienced at least 1 other laboratory abnormality, only 14 (51%) exhibited a consistent pattern of abnormally low phosphorus and magnesium levels. Seven patients had hypocalcemia (26%), and hyponatremia was reported in 3 patients (11%). There were no reports of hyperglycemia. Mean data reported in case series containing data from 63 patients showed that hypophosphatemia was a consistent finding but that other abnormalities were not consistently identified. Findings suggest that refeeding hypophosphatemia is not accompanied by a consistent pattern of biochemical or clinical abnormalities among case reports or case series of patients reported to have refeeding syndrome.
Interprofessional Group Intervention for Parents of Children Age 3 and Younger With Feeding Difficulties
Authors: Owen Carrie , Ziebell Laura , Lessard Chantal , Churcher Elisabeth , Bourget Virginia , Villenueve Helene
Published: February 2012

Background: Feeding difficulties are common with an estimated prevalence of 25%–45% in normally developing children. Clinicians and researchers emphasize the need for timely and effective treatment because a proportion of children develop failure to thrive with possible long‐term impairments. Interprofessional assessment and treatment has emerged as an optimal approach to reduce parental anxiety and increase children's acceptance of a wider variety of foods. Methods: Participants, including 30 children (mean age of 26 ± 8.2 months) meeting inclusion/exclusion criteria and their families, attended a program consisting of 4 sessions, and a 1‐month follow‐up. Parents completed the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale pre‐ and posttreatment and Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS). Results: Paired t tests indicate that the composite scores for frequency of feeding difficulties were on average significantly less posttreatment compared with pretreatment, and composite scores for frequency of parental problems with feeding were also significantly less posttreatment. These results were reflected in the composite scores for both feeding difficulties and parental problems with feeding on child‐ and parent‐related items. The median for the GAS was +2 (range, −2 to +2). Written parental responses in the GAS reflected 2 major themes: satisfaction with the program and a desire for more individualized attention. Conclusions: These results offer preliminary evidence suggesting that an interprofessionally led parent group, with contributions from clinical nutrition, occupational therapy, psychology, and speech‐language pathology professionals, is effective in treating young children with feeding difficulties.
Enteral Feeding Patients With Gastric Outlet Obstruction
Authors: O'Keefe Stephen , Rolniak Susan , Raina Amit , Graham Toby , Hegazi Refaat , Centa‐Wagner Patty
Published: February 2012

Patients with upper gastrointestinal obstructions were previously managed with gastric decompression and parenteral feeding. The authors present their experience in 50 patients with obstructions chiefly due to complicated severe acute (n = 31) or chronic cystic pancreatitis (n = 11) using a double‐lumen nasogastric decompression and jejunal feeding tube system (NGJ) held in place with a nasal bridle that passes through the obstructed gastroduodenal segments, allowing distal jejunal feeding, and at the same time decompresses the stomach to prevent vomiting and aspiration. The tip of the jejunal tube was placed approximately 40 cm down the jejunum to maintain pancreatic rest. Duration of feeding ranged from 1–145 days (median 25 days); 19 patients were discharged home with tube feeds. Only 1 patient could not tolerate feeding and needed to be converted to parenteral feeding. Average tube life was 14 days, with replacement being needed most commonly for kinking or clogging of the jejunal tube (56%) or accidental dislodgement (24%). The obstruction resolved spontaneously in 60%, allowing resumption of normal eating. Of the patients with severe acute pancreatitis or pancreatic pseudocysts, pancreatic rest resulted in resolution of the disease without surgery in 87%, and need for surgery in the remainder was put off for 31–76 days. Seven patients died predominantly of complications of acute pancreatitis between 1 and 31 days. In conclusion, NGJ feeding provides a relatively safe conservative management for critically ill patients with upper gastrointestinal obstructions, reducing the need for surgery and parenteral feeding.
Configuration and actuation analysis of a 2US+UPS asymmetrical parallel mechanism
Authors: Qin Yun , Dai Jian S
Published: February 2012

This article investigates an asymmetrical parallel mechanism with one universal–prismatic–spherical limb and two universal–spherical limbs and focuses on its mobility, configuration and dexterity analysis. The mobility analysis via screw theory reveals the mechanism of mobility four and leads to kinematic analysis. Mechanism configuration is then revealed with its model and actuation scheme. This leads to the singularity analysis and in particular to a new expression of direct kinematic near-singularity in an extended four-dimensional representation. Numerical analysis of local dexterity, which is illustrated with the change of platform position parameters, presents the range of better dexterous space.
Feedback/feedforward modeling and control of electroosmotic flow in a T-shape microchannel
Authors: Movahed Saeid , Assadsangabi Babak , Eghtesad Mohammad , Kamali Reza
Published: February 2012

Electroosmotic effect is usually utilized to generate the flow field in microfluidic systems. In many of these microdevices, an accurate control over the output flow rate of the microfluidic part is necessary for the successful operation of the whole system. In this study, a combined feedback/feedforward strategy is proposed to control the output flow rate in a micro-T-junction. First, finite element model of the electroosmotic flow in the T-junction is generated; second, using the adaptive neural fuzzy inference system, the finite element model forms a basis for generating training data for building an inverse model of the flow in the micro-T-junction. This inverse model serves as a controller in the feedforward part of the system. Then, in order to make the controller robust against disturbances and uncertainties such as dimensional tolerances, a Mamdani-type fuzzy logic controller is incorporated in the feedback part of the controller. Finally, simulation results are presented in order to proof the performance of the designed controller.
Dual-quaternion-based finite-time control for spacecraft tracking in six degrees of freedom
Authors: Wang Jianying , Liang Haizhao , Sun Zhaowei
Published: February 2012

This article investigates the tracking control problem for the six-degree-of-freedom motion of a follower spacecraft relative to a leader spacecraft. Employing dual quaternion representation, the model of the six-degree-of-freedom relative motion between the two spacecraft is derived. Taking into account the model uncertainties and external disturbances, two robust fast sliding mode control laws are proposed to guarantee the finite-time convergence of the tracking errors, where the second control law can solve the dual-equilibrium problem that exists in the first one. In order to alleviate chattering phenomenon, continuous saturation function is introduced into the controller and a softening control strategy is developed. It is worth pointing out that the convergence rate of the proposed fast sliding mode control is faster than that of the linear sliding mode control and terminal sliding mode control. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
Effect of viscosity on a propagation of strong compression wave in a cylindrical duct with damping device
Authors: Vlasenko Vladimir , Shiryaeva Anna
Published: February 2012

Pulse detonation is a possible efficient way of combustion realization in various energetic devices. An original variant of pulse detonation engine of valveless scheme is considered. The aim is to investigate the possible effect of viscosity on the performance of pulse detonation engine. The problem is studied on the basis of numerical simulation. Two calculations of working process in pulse detonation engine are compared: with slipping boundary condition at all solid surfaces and taking into account the boundary layers. Analysis of physical features in both calculations is given. Strong influence of boundary layers on the damping device performance is revealed. It is shown that viscid effects may essentially deteriorate the pulse detonation engine performance.
The transmission line method for modelling laminar flow of liquid in pipelines
Authors: Johnston Nigel
Published: February 2012

The transmission line method is a very efficient technique for dynamic modelling of flow in pipelines, and uses delay elements to represent wave propagation. In this paper, an existing transmission line method is investigated and shown to have some deficiencies. Some adjustments are proposed to avoid these deficiencies and enhance the transient and steady-state accuracy. Very good agreement is obtained between this adjusted transmission line method and an analytical model. The method has been implemented in simulations of a number of highly dynamic systems, and has been found to be robust and reliable.
Synovial hemangioma in an adult horse
Authors: Holzhausen Lars , Nowak Michael , Junginger Johannes , Puff Christina
Published: February 2012

A 15-year-old gelding presented with a progressive lameness of the left forelimb of 2.5 months duration. Clinically, a dilation of the deep flexor tendon sheath with a firm elastic consistency and a pronounced tenderness was noted. Ultrasonically, a marked swelling of the flexor tendon sheath with an irregular density of the mesotendineum was observed. The white, firm material forming a nodular distension of the flexor tendon sheath with a diameter of approximately 1 cm was excised and sent for histopathological examination. Biopsies of the deep flexor tendon and corresponding tendon sheath were sent for histopathological evaluation. Histologically, the mass consisted of clefts and numerous anastomosing vascular channels extending between the collagen fibers of the deep flexor tendon. These capillary-like spaces were lined by neoplastic cells that were flattened to polygonal and contained few erythrocytes. There was 0 to 1 mitotic figure per 10 high power fields (400×). Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells stained positive for vimentin and factor VIII–related antigen. Adjacent to the neoplastic endothelial cells located pericytes expressed α-smooth muscle actin antigen. Based on the histopathological and immunohistochemical features, synovial hemangioma was diagnosed. One year after surgery, the horse has shown no lameness.
After the Great War
Authors: Sullivan Patricia
Published: February 2012

Using tracings from a 1924 technical writing class, this article follows some normally unmarked processes of teaching and learning in order to highlight the humanities–utility binary from the perspective of the shadows of instructional practice. First, the article situates the humanities–utility debate as it is being addressed in postwar America, and second, it offers evidence of how far-reaching the resolution might have been, evidence taken from the margins of a copy of Watt’s (1917) The Composition of Technical Papers. Both the professional discussions and this textbook’s philosophy are reflected in jottings made by a technical writing student. This article suggests that tracing these issues through this underside of pedagogical history offers a type of evidence that is difficult to recover but worth seeking.
Macrothrombocytopenia/Stomatocytosis Specially Associated With Phytosterolemia
Authors: Wang Gaifeng , Cao Lijuan , Wang Zhaoyue , Jiang Minghua , Sun Xionghua , Bai Xia , Ruan Changgeng
Published: February 2012

Phytosterolemia is a rare autosomal recessive disease of plant sterol metabolism, the pathophysiological features of which are high plasma levels of plant sterols and xanthomatosis caused by mutations of ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes, and the combination of hemolysis and macrothrombocytopenia is an unusual clinical manifestation. All the patients of the 3 unrelated phytosterolemia first presented with prominent macrothrombocytopenia and stomatocytosis. They were either homozygous or compound heterozygous for ABCG5/ ABCG8 gene mutations and had significantly elevated serum plant sterols levels quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography. The in vitro study demonstrated that sitosterol can cause changes in shape and osmotic fragility of red blood cells. These findings suggest that macrothrombocytopenia and stomatocytosis could be initial and main features in some patients with phytosterolemia and that serum phytosterols and relevant genes should be analyzed in patients whose macrothrombocytopenia and/or stomatocytosis are unexplained, especially whose parents are of consanguineous marriage.