bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards modular bone tissue engineering using Ti–Co-doped phosphate glass microspheres: cytocompatibility and dynamic culture studies
Authors: Peticone Carlotta , De Silva Thompson David , Owens Gareth J , Kim Hae-Won , Micheletti Martina , Knowles Jonathan C , Wall Ivan
Published: July 2017

The production of large quantities of functional vascularized bone tissue ex vivo still represent an unmet clinical challenge. Microcarriers offer a potential solution to scalable manufacture of bone tissue due to their high surface area-to-volume ratio and the capacity to be assembled using a modular approach. Microcarriers made of phosphate bioactive glass doped with titanium dioxide have been previously shown to enhance proliferation of osteoblast progenitors and maturation towards functional osteoblasts. Furthemore, doping with cobalt appears to mimic hypoxic conditions that have a key role in promoting angiogenesis. This characteristic could be exploited to meet the clinical requirement of producing vascularized units of bone tissue. In the current study, the human osteosarcoma cell line MG-63 was cultured on phosphate glass microspheres doped with 5% mol titanium dioxide and different concentrations of cobalt oxide (0%, 2% and 5% mol), under static and dynamic conditions (150 and 300 rpm on an orbital shaker). Cell proliferation and the formation of aggregates of cells and microspheres were observed over a period of two weeks in all glass compositions, thus confirming the biocompatibility of the substrate and the suitability of this system for the formation of compact micro-units of tissue. At the concentrations tested, cobalt was not found to be cytotoxic and did not alter cell metabolism. On the other hand, the dynamic environment played a key role, with moderate agitation having a positive effect on cell proliferation while higher agitation resulting in impaired cell growth. Finally, in static culture assays, the capacity of cobalt doping to induce vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) upregulation by osteoblastic cells was observed, but was not found to increase linearly with cobalt oxide content. In conclusion, Ti–Co phosphate glasses were found to support osteoblastic cell growth and aggregate formation that is a necessary precursor to tissue formation and the upregaulation of VEGF production can potentially support vascularization.
Mechanical induction of bi-directional orientation of primary porcine bladder smooth muscle cells in tubular fibrin-poly(vinylidene fluoride) scaffolds for ureteral and urethral repair using cyclic and focal balloon catheter stimulation
Authors: Seifarth Volker , Grosse Joachim O , Gossmann Matthias , Janke Heinz Peter , Arndt Patrick , Koch Sabine , Epple Matthias , Artmann Gerhard M , Artmann Aysegül Temiz
Published: July 2017

To restore damaged organ function or to investigate organ mechanisms, it is necessary to prepare replicates that follow the biological role model as faithfully as possible. The interdisciplinary field of tissue engineering has great potential in regenerative medicine and might overcome negative side effects in the replacement of damaged organs. In particular, tubular organ structures of the genitourinary tract, such as the ureter and urethra, are challenging because of their complexity and special milieu that gives rise to incrustation, inflammation and stricture formation. Tubular biohybrids were prepared from primary porcine smooth muscle cells embedded in a fibrin gel with a stabilising poly(vinylidene fluoride) mesh. A mechanotransduction was performed automatically with a balloon kyphoplasty catheter. Diffusion of urea and creatinine, as well as the bursting pressure, were measured. Light and electron microscopy were used to visualise cellular distribution and orientation. Histological evaluation revealed a uniform cellular distribution in the fibrin gel. Mechanical stimulation with a stretch of 20% leads to a circumferential orientation of smooth muscle cells inside the matrix and a longitudinal alignment on the outer surface of the tubular structure. Urea and creatinine permeability and bursting pressure showed a non-statistically significant trend towards stimulated tissue constructs. In this proof of concept study, an innovative technique of intraluminal pressure for mechanical stimulation of tubular biohybrids prepared from autologous cells and a composite material induce bi-directional orientation of smooth muscle cells by locally and cyclically applied mechanical tension. Such geometrically driven patterns of cell growth within a scaffold may represent a key stage in the future tissue engineering of implantable ureter replacements that will allow the active transportation of urine from the renal pelvis into the bladder.
Three-dimensional wet-electrospun poly(lactic acid)/multi-wall carbon nanotubes scaffold induces differentiation of human menstrual blood-derived stem cells into germ-like cells
Authors: Eyni Hossein , Ghorbani Sadegh , Shirazi Reza , Salari Asl Leila , P Beiranvand Shahram , Soleimani Masoud
Published: July 2017

Infertility caused by the disruption or absence of germ cells is a major and largely incurable medical problem. Germ cells (i.e., sperm or egg) play a key role in the transmission of genetic and epigenetic information across generations. Generation of gametes derived in vitro from stem cells hold promising prospects which could potentially help infertile men and women. Menstrual blood-derived stem cells are a unique stem cell source. Evidence suggests that menstrual blood-derived stem cells exhibit a multi-lineage potential and have attracted extensive attention in regenerative medicine. To maintain the three-dimensional structure of natural extra cellular matrices in vitro, scaffolds can do this favor and mimic a microenvironment for cell proliferation and differentiation. According to previous studies, poly(lactic acid) and multi-wall carbon nanotubes have been introduced as novel and promising biomaterials for the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells. Some cell types have been successfully grown on a matrix containing carbon nanotubes in tissue engineering but there is no report for this material to support stem cells differentiation into germ cells lineage. This study designed a 3D wet-electrospun poly(lactic acid) and poly(lactic acid)/multi-wall carbon nanotubes composite scaffold to compare infiltration, proliferation, and differentiation potential of menstrual blood-derived stem cells toward germ cell lineage with 2D culture. Our primary data revealed that the fabricated scaffold has mechanical and biological suitable qualities for supporting and attachments of stem cells. The differentiated menstrual blood-derived stem cells tracking in scaffolds using scanning electron microscopy confirmed cell attachment, aggregation, and distribution on the porous scaffold. Based on the differentiation assay by RT-PCR analysis, stem cells and germ-like cells markers were expressed in 3D groups as well as 2D one. It seems that poly(lactic acid)/multi-wall carbon nanotubes scaffold-seeded menstrual blood-derived stem cells could be viewed as a novel, safe, and accessible construct for these cells, as they enhance germ-like generation from menstrual blood-derived stem cells.
Psychological Violence and Sexual Risk Behavior Among Predominantly African American Women
Authors: Ali Bina , Mittal Mona , Schroder Allison , Ishman Najah , Quinton Sylvia , Boekeloo Bradley
Published: July 2017

Physical and sexual violence are commonly researched as risk factors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, psychological violence and its relationship with HIV risk behaviors have received limited attention among African American/Black (Black) women. This study examined (a) the frequency of recent (past 3 months) psychological violence, physical violence, and sexual violence and (b) the association of HIV risk behaviors, including unprotected sex, sex under the influence of alcohol/drugs, and sex exchange for money/drugs/shelter, with psychological violence. Participants included 191 women (89.2% Black), who were recruited through information sessions held at community centers, Parent Teacher Association meetings, substance use and HIV counseling centers, radio public service announcements, and word of mouth. Interested women participated in a multisession HIV and substance use prevention program and completed a self-reported assessment at program baseline. The current study utilized baseline data collected for a longitudinal study. Results from descriptive analysis indicated that the rate of psychological violence was higher than physical violence or sexual violence, and it was strongly associated with physical and sexual violence. Furthermore, hierarchical logistic regression analysis showed that unprotected sex was significantly associated with recent psychological violence after controlling for covariates. Findings suggest that recent psychological violence is more common than physical or sexual violence and it relates to sexual risk behaviors among Black women. Recent psychological violence may indicate psychosocial and sexual vulnerability for HIV and warrants particular attention among Black women.
Qualitatively Understanding Mother Fault After Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Zagrodney Jessica L. , Cummings Jorden A.
Published: July 2017

Socially constructed images of motherhood suggest that a “good” mother is caring, nurturing, and selfless—the perfect maternal figure. When these standards are not met, mother blaming (i.e., assigning fault to mothers) occurs even in child sexual abuse (CSA) cases. We collected 312 open-ended responses in total from 108 community-based participants to understand contextual factors that increase and decrease in mother fault in a CSA-related vignette depicting the mother’s partner as the perpetrator. Thematic analysis revealed five main themes. Three themes were associated with decreased blame: Lack of Overt Knowledge (i.e., the mother had no direct knowledge of the CSA and thus cannot be blamed), Physical Act (i.e., the mother was not the actual perpetrator; only the perpetrator is responsible for the CSA), and Trust (i.e., the mother should be able to trust her partner). Two themes were associated with increased blame: Covert Knowledge (i.e., the mother was expected to have covert, intuitive knowledge of the CSA) and Mistrust (i.e., the mother should have known better than to trust her partner). Faulting mothers for the CSA of their child may reduce reporting of, and help seeking for, CSA, due to fear of being blamed.
Uncovering Indicators of Commercial Sexual Exploitation
Authors: Bounds Dawn , Delaney Kathleen R. , Julion Wrenetha , Breitenstein Susan
Published: July 2017

It is estimated that annually 100,000 to 300,000 youth are at risk for sex trafficking; a commercial sex act induced by force, fraud, or coercion, or any such act where the person induced to perform such an act is younger than 18 years of age. Increasingly, such transactions are occurring online via Internet-based sites that serve the commercial sex industry. Commercial sex transactions involving trafficking are illegal; thus, Internet discussions between those involved must be veiled. Even so, transactions around sex trafficking do occur. Within these transactions are innuendos that provide one avenue for detecting potential activity. The purpose of this study is to identify linguistic indicators of potential commercial sexual exploitation within the online comments of men posted on an Internet site. Six hundred sixty-six posts from five Midwest cities and 363 unique members were analyzed via content analysis. Three main indicators were found: the presence of youth or desire for youthfulness, presence of pimps, and awareness of vulnerability. These findings begin a much-needed dialogue on uncovering online risks of commercial sexual exploitation and support the need for further research on Internet indicators of sex trafficking.
Administering Health Plan Burdens During Economic Downturns: Lessons From Local Governments and the Great Recession
Authors: Edwardson Nicholas , Perlman Bruce J. , Scicchitano Michael J.
Published: July 2017

The Great Recession exacerbated health care spending as a share of total revenue for local governments through the combination of decreased revenues and increased health plan premiums. This event forced the hand of local governments to choose between making layoffs, cutting services, or reducing employee benefits. Understanding more about why and how they did so is imperative for improving how local governments structure benefits during times of economic stability or surplus and also how they react during future economic downturns. In this study, a national survey of city and county administrators ( N = 822) was conducted to understand if and how local governments introduced health plan burdens to their employees in response to the Great Recession. While a majority of local governments did not introduce significant health plan burdens to their employees, when a burden was introduced it was distributed disproportionately to current and future employees while protecting retired employees.
High Burden and Depression Among Late-Stage Idiopathic Parkinson Disease and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Caregivers
Authors: Schmotz Christian , Richinger Carmen , Lorenzl Stefan
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

Caregivers of patients with late-stage idiopathic Parkinson disease (IPD) and late-stage progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) often suffer from severe psychological strain themselves. This study investigates the influence of the different kind of symptoms in IPD and PSP on the psychological burden of the caregivers.

Methods:

Twenty patients with late-stage IPD and 20 patients with late-stage PSP and their caregivers were investigated. To measure the degree of motor, cognitive, and affective impairment of the patients, the instruments Subscale III of the Unified Rating Scale for Parkinsonism (UPDRS-III), a shortened 24-item version of the Mini-Mental State Examination, and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-30) were used. Psychological burden of the caregivers was determined by using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Inventory (ZBI).

Results:

Patients with IPD suffered from a higher level of depression (GDS-30: 15.9 vs 10.2, P = .020), whereas patients with PSP showed greater motor impairment (UPDRS-III: 38.3 vs 29.9, P = .002). Caregivers of both groups reported high psychological burden (ZBI: 36.5 in IPD vs 42.8 in PSP) and symptoms of a depression (BDI-II: 12.5 in IPD vs 15.1 in PSP). No significant influence of motor impairment, cognitive dysfunction, and depressive symptoms of the patient on the burden of the caregiver could be found.

Conclusions:

Psychological strain and depression among caregivers seem to become even more relevant in the late stages of IPD and PSP. Further studies will be necessary to investigate the specific determining factors in late-stage parkinsonian syndromes.
The Relationship Between Apolipoprotein ε4 Carrier Status and Sleep Characteristics in Cognitively Normal Older Adults
Authors: Kahya Melike , Vidoni Eric , Burns Jeffrey M. , Thompson Ashley N. , Meyer Kayla , Siengsukon Catherine F.
Published: July 2017

The apolipoprotein (APOE) ε4 allele, a well-described genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer disease (AD), is associated with sleep disturbances even in cognitively normal older adults, although it is not clear whether this association is independent of sleep apnea. We sought to extend previous studies by examining whether cognitively normal older adults without self-reported sleep apnea who carry the APOE ε4 allele have altered sleep characteristics compared to noncarriers. Data from N = 36 (APOE ε4 carriers [n = 9], noncarriers [n = 27]) cognitively normal older adults (Clinical Dementia Rating [CDR] scale = 0) without self-reported sleep apnea were used for these analyses. Participants wore an actigraph for 7 days to determine sleep characteristics. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) were used to assess sleep quality and daytime sleepiness, respectively. The APOE ε4 carriers had a higher number of awakenings compared to the noncarriers ( P = .02). There was no significant difference in the PSQI global score and the ESS; however, the PSQI subcomponent of daily disturbances was significantly higher in APOE ε4 carriers ( P = .03), indicating increased daytime dysfunction is related to disrupted sleep. This study provides evidence that individuals who are cognitively normal and genetically at risk of AD may have disrupted sleep. These findings are consistent with prior studies and suggest that sleep disruption may be present in the presymptomatic stages of AD.
Occupational Social Class and Personality Traits in Relation to Leisure-Time Physical Activity Level: Cross-Sectional Results From the Copenhagen Aging and Midlife Biobank
Authors: Petersen Gitte L. , Mortensen Erik L. , Rod Naja H. , Lange Theis , Flensborg-Madsen Trine , Hansen Åse M. , Lund Rikke
Published: July 2017

Objective: To investigate separate and combined associations of occupational social class and personality traits with late midlife leisure-time physical activity duration and intensity. Method: Cross-sectional data from the Copenhagen Aging and Midlife Biobank ( N = 4,649) were analyzed using linear regression models with leisure-time physical activity (metric equivalence) as outcome. Results: Low versus high occupational social class was associated with 4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [3%, 5%]) greater leisure-time physical activity duration, but 2% (CI = [1%, 3%]) lower intensity. Each 10-unit increase in extraversion was associated with 5% (CI = [2%, 8%]) greater duration. Intensity increased by each 10-unit increase in conscientiousness (6%, CI = [4%, 7%]), openness (3%, CI = [1%, 4%]), neuroticism (3%, CI = [1%, 4%]), and extraversion (5%, CI = [4%, 7%]). Conscientiousness was positively associated with duration in low, but not in high, occupational social class (interaction p value = .002). Discussion: Higher occupational social class was associated with lower leisure-time physical activity duration, but higher intensity. Extraversion was positively associated with duration and intensity. Conscientiousness, openness, and neuroticism were positively associated with intensity. Overall, interactions were not consistent.
A new evaluation method on hydraulic system using the instantaneous speed fluctuation of hydraulic motor
Authors: Liu Yong , Gu Li-chen , Yang Bin , Wang Sheng-huai , Yuan Hai-bing
Published: July 2017

Instantaneous speed fluctuation of hydraulic motors is a significant physical parameter, which contains abundant information reflecting the working condition of the whole hydraulic system. Monitoring instantaneous speed fluctuation change under different operational conditions helps to reveal the performance of the system, such as flow fluctuation, oil compressibility, and internal leakage. Therefore, a new evaluation method for hydraulic systems using the instantaneous speed fluctuation of the hydraulic motor is proposed in this paper. The proposed method includes measurement of the instantaneous speed and instantaneous speed fluctuation extraction. By means of the software counting algorithm, the instantaneous speed of the hydraulic motor can be obtained based on data acquisition card and industrial personal computer. The process of the instantaneous speed fluctuation extraction adopts order analysis, which converts the instantaneous speed signal from the time domain to the angle domain. Moreover, by tracking the order spectrum, the instantaneous speed fluctuation change under varying operational conditions can be identified. The effectiveness of the proposed method was validated by experiments under different working conditions. The experimental results show that the instantaneous speed fluctuation of the hydraulic motor can analyze the performance change of the hydraulic system with different motor speeds, loads, and moments of inertia, which provides a new method to evaluate the operational states of hydraulic systems.
A variable resolution feedback improving the performances of object detection and recognition
Authors: Wang Zihan , Hao Qun , Zhang Fanghua , Hu Yao , Cao Jie
Published: July 2017

In order to improve the performances of object detection and recognition, a two-stage framework combined with variable resolution control strategy is proposed. The images in low resolution and high resolution are employed in object detection and object recognition, respectively. Meanwhile, a feedback mechanism used in two-stage framework is proved to effectively improve the performances of object detection. The results show that under low resolution, the accuracy of object detection based on fixed resolution 320 × 240 without feedback mechanism is 36.7%. However, the accuracy of object detection of the proposed method based on variable resolution increases to 95.3%. Under high resolution, compared with the method based on fixed resolution 1280 × 960 using the two-stage framework, the time consumption of the proposed method with variable resolution decreases by 51.4%, while keeping almost identical recognition accuracy.
Adaptive tracking control of ball screw drives with load mass variations
Authors: Zhang Chengyong , Chen Yaolong
Published: July 2017

Considering the load mass variations in real applications, an adaptive disturbance rejection tracking controller for ball screw drive system is proposed in this article. In this control framework, active disturbance rejection controller, proportional-integral controller and feedforward controller based on the equivalent error model are combined to realize precision tracking control of the system. Besides, this control scheme is designed to automatically tune the controller gains according to the identified load mass. Comparative simulation and experimental results indicate that the proposed adaptive disturbance rejection tracking controller significantly outperforms the cascade P-PI (proportional position controller and proportional-integral speed controller) control scheme in the presence of load mass variations.
Dynamic predictions in Bayesian functional joint models for longitudinal and time-to-event data: An application to Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Li Kan , Luo Sheng
Published: July 2017

In the study of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers often collect repeated measurements of clinical variables, event history, and functional data. If the health measurements deteriorate rapidly, patients may reach a level of cognitive impairment and are diagnosed as having dementia. An accurate prediction of the time to dementia based on the information collected is helpful for physicians to monitor patients’ disease progression and to make early informed medical decisions. In this article, we first propose a functional joint model to account for functional predictors in both longitudinal and survival submodels in the joint modeling framework. We then develop a Bayesian approach for parameter estimation and a dynamic prediction framework for predicting the subjects’ future outcome trajectories and risk of dementia, based on their scalar and functional measurements. The proposed Bayesian functional joint model provides a flexible framework to incorporate many features both in joint modeling of longitudinal and survival data and in functional data analysis. Our proposed model is evaluated by a simulation study and is applied to the motivating Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative study.
Simulation-based sensitivity analysis for non-ignorably missing data
Authors: Yin Peng , Shi Jian Q
Published: July 2017

Sensitivity analysis is popular in dealing with missing data problems particularly for non-ignorable missingness, where full-likelihood method cannot be adopted. It analyses how sensitively the conclusions (output) may depend on assumptions or parameters (input) about missing data, i.e. missing data mechanism. We call models with the problem of uncertainty sensitivity models. To make conventional sensitivity analysis more useful in practice we need to define some simple and interpretable statistical quantities to assess the sensitivity models and make evidence based analysis. We propose a novel approach in this paper on attempting to investigate the possibility of each missing data mechanism model assumption, by comparing the simulated datasets from various MNAR models with the observed data non-parametrically, using the K-nearest-neighbour distances. Some asymptotic theory has also been provided. A key step of this method is to plug in a plausibility evaluation system towards each sensitivity parameter, to select plausible values and reject unlikely values, instead of considering all proposed values of sensitivity parameters as in the conventional sensitivity analysis method. The method is generic and has been applied successfully to several specific models in this paper including meta-analysis model with publication bias, analysis of incomplete longitudinal data and mean estimation with non-ignorable missing data.
Hedging Efficiency of Indian Commodity Futures
Authors: Gupta Shashi , Choudhary Himanshu , Agarwal D.R.
Published: July 2017

This article examines the hedge ratio and hedging effectiveness in agricultural (castor seed, guar seed) and non-agricultural (copper, nickel, gold, silver, natural gas and crude oil) commodities traded in National Commodity and Derivative Exchange (NCDEX) and Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX), respectively. Constant and dynamic hedge ratios are estimated by using ordinary least square (OLS), vector autoregression (VAR), vector error correction model (VECM) and vector autoregressive-multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model (VAR-MGARCH). The results of constant as well as dynamic hedge ratios reveal that the Indian futures market provides higher hedging effectiveness in case of precious metal (65–75 per cent) compared to industrial metal and energy commodities (less than 50 per cent). Hedging effectiveness for castor seed and natural gas is even lower than 10 per cent. This study concluded that VECM and VAR-MGARCH both are providing higher hedging although VECM is providing the highest hedge ratio. It has been found that the next to near month futures provide better hedging effectiveness as compared to near month futures for crude oil and silver. It is recommended that the policy makers should pay attention towards the number of delivery centres, standard of quality of underlying assets and transaction costs in spot market.
Self-Efficacy and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Heart Failure Patients in Singapore: A Descriptive Correlational Study
Authors: Suresh Rajasekaram , Wang Wenru , Koh Karen W. L. , Shorey Shefaly , Lopez Violeta
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Heart failure (HF) accounts for 30% of all global deaths and Asians are likely to suffer from HF 10 years earlier than their Western counterparts. Low self-efficacy and poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL) have been reported in patients with HF. Methodology: A descriptive correlational design was adopted to investigate the associations between self-efficacy and HRQoL in 91 patients with HF in Singapore. Results: Patients with HF demonstrated moderately good self-efficacy ( M = 3.05, SD = 0.61) and HRQoL ( M = 22.48, SD = 18.99). Significant differences were found between total self-efficacy scores and education levels ( p = .05), and between overall HRQoL and smoking status ( p < .05). Self-efficacy was not significantly correlated to HRQoL. Smoking status, HF classification, and self-efficacy in maintaining function predicted HRQoL. Discussion: Health care professionals should assess each patient’s demographics, smoking status, and clinical condition before delivering individualized education to enhance their self-efficacy and, in turn, overall HRQoL.
Mutation Spectrum and Genotype–Phenotype Analyses in a Pakistani Cohort With Hemophilia B
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tariq Masood , Naz Arshi , Ahmed Jawad , Shamsi Tahir , Ahmed Shariq , Ahmed Nisar , Imran Ayisha , Farooq Nazish , Khan Muhammad Tariq Hamayun , Taj Abid Sohail
Published: July 2017

This study aimed to (1) identify F9 genetic alterations in patients with hemophilia B (HB) of Pakistani origin and (2) determine the genotype–phenotype relationships in these patients. Diagnosed cases of HB were identified through registries at designated tertiary health-care centers across the country. Consenting patients were enrolled into the study. The factor IX (FIX) coagulation activity (FIX:C) and key clinical features were recorded. Direct sequencing of F9 was carried out in all patients. All the variants identified were analyzed for functional consequences employing in silico analysis tools. Accession numbers from National Center of Biotechnology Information ClinVar database were retrieved for the novel variants. Genotype–FIX:C relationships were determined followed by FIX:C clinical phenotype assessment. A total of 52 patients with HB from 36 unrelated families were identified, which mainly comprised patients with moderate HB (n = 35; 67.3%). Among these, 35 patients from 22 unrelated families could be contacted and enrolled into the study. Missense variants were the most frequent (58.8%), followed by nonsense variants (17.6%). A missense, a short insertion, and a nonsense novel variants in exon 2, 6, and 7, respectively, were also identified. The disease manifested FIX:C heterogeneity in relation to the corresponding mutation in a significant number of cases. Clinical phenotype heterogeneity was also observed in relation to FIX:C-based severity assessment. We concluded that the registered FIX-deficient population of Pakistan mainly comprises moderate HB. F9 mutation spectrum in Pakistani patients with HB is heterogeneous. The HB population of Pakistan manifests a significant amount of genotype–FIX:C and FIX:C–clinical phenotype heterogeneities.
Numerical modeling and experimental study on a novel pounding tuned mass damper
Authors: Wang Wenxi , Hua Xugang , Wang Xiuyong , Chen Zhengqing , Song Gangbing
Published: July 2017

Owing to its easy implementation and robustness, the pounding tuned mass damper (PTMD), which uses viscoelastic materials to cover the pounding boundary to increase the energy dissipation during impact, has been studied in recent years. The conventional PTMD design includes a gap between the pounding mass and the viscoelastic material; the value of this gap should be optimized. In this paper, a novel PTMD is proposed to control structural vibrations. In the proposed PTMD, the pounding boundary covered by viscoelastic materials is simply added to one side of the tuned mass when the tuned mass is in the equilibrium position. Unlike the conventional PTMD, the gap between the tuned mass and the pounding boundary is zero in the proposed design and is no longer a design parameter. A new analytic model is proposed to accurately predict the impact force between viscoelastic materials and steel. Through comparison with the impact force and the indentation from impact experiments, the accuracy of the proposed impact force model is validated. To verify the control performance of the proposed PTMD, an experimental study on a frame with the proposed PTMD is carried out to investigate the control performance in free vibration and forced vibration cases. Both experimental and numerical results show that the proposed PTMD can effectively reduce the response of the frame structure and that the damping ratio of the frame is significantly increased.
Upping the Ante at Small Colleges: Utilizing Class Websites as Journalism Teaching Clinics
Authors: Littlefield Christina
Published: July 2017

Journalism as a field has been revolutionized toward online, interactive, and immersive storytelling experiences. Multimedia storytelling requires adaptive journalists who are always learning new skills. While many universities utilize student-led news organizations to train students, this article explores the added value of a journalism class website to further encourage students to develop their multimedia skills. It shows how Eric Newton’s teaching hospital vision can be brought to the classroom in clinic form by smaller, liberal arts colleges. This two-part case study showcases how a class website can spur deeper reporting and multidimensional storytelling at the introductory and senior levels.
Irinotecan-induced muscle twitching from a possible drug interaction: A case report
Authors: Peters SS , Bettinger J , Philip J , Karhan B , Wrzesinski SH
Published: July 2017

We report the case of a 50-year-old human immunodeficiency virus-positive patient with stage IV KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer who experienced visible muscle twitching in the right lateral triceps brachii from irinotecan administration for which typical supportive care measures were unsuccessful, including the administration of atropine and slowing down the infusion rate. The patient was able to tolerate this reaction and received 20 cycles of irinotecan-based chemotherapy despite experiencing the muscle twitching with every cycle at the same onset, duration, and severity. It is possible that competitive metabolism by concomitant medications metabolized by CYP3A4 or UGT1A1 was responsible for this event. Due to ethical concerns, we were unable to formally assess the drug interaction by discontinuing the suspected interacting medications and re-initiating them to evaluate the effects. A formal pharmacokinetic study may be warranted to better elucidate these potential drug interactions.
Inhibition of Inflammation Mediated Through the Tumor Necrosis Factor α Biochemical Pathway Can Lead to Favorable Outcomes in Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Shamim Daniah , Laskowski Michael
Published: July 2017

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) inhibitors have long been used as disease-modifying agents in immune disorders. Recently, research has shown a role of chronic neuroinflammation in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer disease, and interest has been generated in the use of anti-TNF agents and TNF-modulating agents for prevention and treatment. This article extensively reviewed literature on animal studies testing these agents. The results showed a role for direct and indirect TNF-α inhibition through agents such as thalidomide, 3,6-dithiothalidomide, etanercept, infliximab, exendin-4, sodium hydrosulfide, minocycline, imipramine, and atorvastatin. Studies were performed on mice, rats, and monkeys, with induction of neurodegenerative physiology either through the use of chemical agents or through the use of transgenic animals. Most of these agents showed an improvement in cognitive function as tested with the Morris water maze, and immunohistochemical and histopathological staining studies consistently showed better outcomes with these agents. Brains of treated animals showed significant reduction in pro-inflammatory TNF-α and reduced the burden of neurofibrillary tangles, amyloid precursor protein, and β-amyloid plaques. Also, recruitment of microglial cells in the central nervous system was significantly reduced through these drugs. These studies provide a clearer mechanistic understanding of the role of TNF-α modulation in Alzheimer disease. All studies in this review explored the use of these drugs as prophylactic agents to prevent Alzheimer disease through immune modulation of the TNF inflammatory pathway, and their success highlights the need for further research of these drugs as therapeutic agents.
Addressing medical needs of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders in a primary care setting
Authors: Saqr Youssra , Braun Erika , Porter Kyle , Barnette Debra , Hanks Christopher
Published: July 2017

Little has been reported about how to improve health care access and delivery for adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder. To understand the contributions to the health disparities in the autism spectrum disorder population, we conducted two independent research approaches to learn about current medical needs. A retrospective chart review was performed to evaluate medical comorbidities and medication use. A focus group was also created to address barriers faced in providing medical care. Of 126 charts reviewed, 49% (n = 62) had intellectual disability, 49% (n = 62) had attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, 52% (n = 65) had anxiety, 41% (n = 52) had obesity, 31% (n = 39) with a history of aggressive behavior, 31% (n = 31) had depression, 22% (n = 28) had seizures, and 9% (n = 11) had hypertension. A Medical Regimen Complexity Index score was determined to examine medication use trends in the autism spectrum disorder population. Medical Regimen Complexity Index scores were significantly higher for patients with intellectual disability, patients with seizures, and patients with a history of aggressive behavior. Both the focus group and our pre-visit assessment identified the waiting room and waiting time as barriers to care. Understanding the comorbidities, polypharmacy, and medical barriers should provide a better understanding of the current health care access and delivery needs of adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder.
Bio-ecological factors associated with the psychological distress of fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder: A population-based study of Australian families
Authors: Seymour Monique , Giallo Rebecca , Wood Catherine E
Published: July 2017

Using a bio-ecological framework, the aim of this study was to examine factors associated with psychological distress experienced by fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder from a nationally representative sample of Australian children and their families. Individual (e.g. age and self-efficacy), interpersonal (e.g. partner distress, couple relationship, child behaviour and social support) and social environmental factors (e.g. job quality and financial hardship) were explored as potential predictors of fathers’ distress. Data were drawn from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children, where 159 fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder were identified. As comparison, 6578 fathers of children without developmental disabilities were identified. Multiple regression analyses showed that experiencing depression within the past year, job quality (e.g. autonomy and access to parental leave) and social support were significant predictors for fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder. The importance of supporting the well-being of fathers of children with autism spectrum disorder is discussed.
Emotion awareness and cognitive behavioural therapy in young people with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Roberts-Collins Cara , Mahoney-Davies Gerwyn , Russell Ailsa , Booth Anne , Loades Maria
Published: July 2017

Young people with autism spectrum disorder experience high levels of emotional problems, including anxiety and depression. Adapted cognitive behavioural therapy is recommended for such difficulties. However, no evidence suggests whether emotion awareness is important in treatment outcome for young people on the autism spectrum. This study aimed to investigate the potential differences in emotion awareness between (1) young people on the autism spectrum and typically developing youth and (2) young people on the autism spectrum with and without experience of cognitive behavioural therapy. Three groups (aged 11–20 years) participated: (1) typically developing young people ( n = 56); (2) young people on the autism spectrum with no experience of cognitive behavioural therapy ( n = 23); and (3) young people on the autism spectrum who had attended cognitive behavioural therapy ( n = 33). All participants completed the Emotion Awareness Questionnaire–30 item version. Young people on the autism spectrum differed significantly from typically developing young people on the emotional awareness measure. Young people on the autism spectrum who had attended cognitive behavioural therapy scored significantly lower on the Differentiating Emotions subscale, and significantly higher on the Attending to Others’ Emotions subscale, compared to young people on the autism spectrum who had not attended cognitive behavioural therapy. This study highlights the importance of psycho-educational components of cognitive behavioural therapy when adapting for young people on the autism spectrum.
Designing and collecting data for a longitudinal study: the Sleman Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS)
Authors: Dewi Fatwa S.T. , Choiriyyah Ifta , Indriyani Citra , Wahab Abdul , Lazuardi Lutfan , Nugroho Agung , Susetyowati Susetyowati , Harisaputra Rosalia K. , Santi Risalia , Lestari Septi K. , NG Nawi , Hakimi Mohammad , Josef Hari K. , Utarini Adi
Published: July 2017

Background: This paper describes the methodological considerations of developing an urban Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS), in the Sleman District of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Methods: 1) The Sleman District was selected because it is mostly an urban area. 2) The minimum sample size was calculated to measure infant mortality as the key variable and resulted in a sample of 4942 households. A two-stage cluster sampling procedure with probability proportionate to size was applied; first, 216 Censuses Blocks (CBs) were selected, and second, 25 households in each CB were selected. 3) A baseline survey was started in 2015, and collected data on demographic and economic characteristics and verbal autopsy (VA); the 2nd cycle collected updated demographic data, VA, type of morbidity (communicable and non-communicable diseases, disability and injury) and health access. 4) The data were collected at a home visit through a Computer-Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) on a tablet device, and the data were transferred to the server through the Internet. 5) The quality control consisted of spot-checks of 5% of interviews to control for adherence to the protocol, re-checks to ensure the validity of the interview, and computer-based data cleaning. 6) A utilization system was designed for policy-makers (government) and researchers. Results: In total, 5147 households participated in the baseline assessment in 2015, and 4996 households participated in the second cycle in 2016 (97.0% response rate). Conclusions: Development of an urban HDSS is possible and is beneficial in providing data complementary to the existing demographic and health information system at local, national and global levels.
A biomechanical analysis of traumatic brain injury for slips and falls from height
Authors: Post Andrew , Taylor Karen , Hoshizaki T Blaine , Brien Susan , Cusimano Michael D , Marshall Shawn
Published: July 2017

Background

Falls are a common cause of morbidity and mortality in society, particularly among the aged and young. There has been research to describe the epidemiology of these types of events, but to date there has been few correlations of clinical brain injury outcomes and metrics used in biomechanical research; parameters often used to help develop protective devices and environments. The purpose of this research was to examine the kinematic characteristics of falls from standing and higher heights in an effort to understand how clinical brain injury is predicted by biomechanical injury metrics.

Methods

Computer simulations of nine traumatic brain injury events from falling were conducted to determine the biomechanical metrics associated with each injury case.

Results

Many of the impacts were to the occipital region of the head, as would be expected from backward falls or from slipping from ladders. These falls resulted in low rotational acceleration values and high linear accelerations, suggesting linear acceleration may be an important characteristic of this injury mechanism. In addition, even though each case resulted in severe head injury, the HIC15 (Head Injury Criterion) values did not consistently predict injury when the kinematic output was lower than 300 g. This result suggests that HIC15 may have limited value as a predictor for high energy short duration direct impacts to the head. The results supported a relationship between fall height and duration of loss of consciousness, with the higher fall heights producing longer times of unconsciousness.

Conclusion

Linear acceleration may be the metric that should be focused on to develop further strategies to protect against severe TBI for fall cases similar to those in this research. In addition, the HIC15 may not be suitable as a predictive metric for TBI and future development of protective devices for the prevention of head injury should take this into account.
The verification of ethnographic data
Authors: Pool Robert
Published: July 2017

Anthropologists are increasingly required to account for the data on which they base their interpretations and to make it available for public scrutiny and re-analysis. While this may seem straightforward (why not place our data in online repositories?), it is not. Ethnographic ‘data’ may consist of everything from verbatim transcripts (‘hard data’) to memories and impressions (‘soft data’). Hard data can be archived and re-analysed; soft data cannot. The focus on hard ‘objective’ data contributes to the delegitimizing of the soft data that are essential for ethnographic understanding, and without which hard data cannot be properly interpreted. However, the credibility of ethnographic interpretation requires the possibility of verification. This could be achieved by obligatory, standardised forms of personal storage with the option for audit if required, and by being more explicit in publications about the nature and status of the data and the process of interpretation.
Compressive sensing of wireless sensors based on group sparse optimization for structural health monitoring
Authors: Bao Yuequan , Shi Zuoqiang , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Hui
Published: July 2017

Vibration signals of most civil infrastructures have sparse characteristics (i.e. only a few modes contribute to the vibration of the structures). Therefore, the vibration data usually have sparse representation. Additionally, the vibration data measured by the sensors placed on different locations of structure have almost the same sparse structure in the frequency domain. On basis of the group sparsity of the structural vibration data, we proposed a group sparse optimization algorithm based on compressive sensing for wireless sensors. Different from the Nyquist sampling theorem, the data are first acquired by a nonuniform low-rate random sampling method according to compressive sensing theory. We then developed the group sparse optimization algorithm to reconstruct the original data from incomplete measurements. By conducting a field test on Xiamen Haicang Bridge with wireless sensors, we illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. The results show that smaller reconstruction errors can be achieved using data from multiple sensors with the group sparse optimization method than using data from only single sensor. Even using only 10% random sampling data, the original data can be reconstructed using the group sparse optimization method with a small reconstruction error. In addition, the modal parameters can also be identified from the reconstruction data with small identification errors.
Topological interlocking in architecture: A new design method and computational tool for designing building floors
Authors: Weizmann Michael , Amir Oded , Grobman Yasha Jacob
Published: July 2017

This article presents a framework for the design process of structural systems based on the notion of topological interlocking. A new design method and a computational tool for generating valid architectural topological interlocking geometries are discussed. In the heart of the method are an algorithm for automatically generating valid two-dimensional patterns and a set of procedures for creating several types of volumetric blocks based on the two-dimensional patterns. Additionally, the computational tool can convert custom sets of closed planar curves into structural elements based on the topological interlocking principle. The method is examined in a case study of a building floor. The article concludes with discussions on the potential advantages of using the method for architectural design, as well as on challenging aspects of further development of this method toward implementation in practice.