bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved acoustic emission source location during fatigue and impact events in metallic and composite structures
Authors: Pearson Matthew R , Eaton Mark , Featherston Carol , Pullin Rhys , Holford Karen
Published: October 2016

In order to overcome the difficulties in applying traditional time-of-arrival techniques for locating acoustic emission events in complex structures and materials, a technique termed ‘Delta-t mapping’ was developed. This article presents a significant improvement on this, in which the difficulties in identifying the precise arrival time of an acoustic emission signal are addressed by incorporating the Akaike information criteria. The performance of the time of arrival, the Delta-t mapping and the Akaike information criteria Delta-t mapping techniques is assessed by locating artificial acoustic emission sources, fatigue damage and impact events in aluminium and composite materials, respectively. For all investigations conducted, the improved Akaike information criteria Delta-t technique shows a reduction in average Euclidean source location error irrespective of material or source type. For locating Hsu–Nielsen sources on a complex aluminium specimen, the average source location error (Euclidean) is 32.6 (time of arrival), 5.8 (Delta-t) and 3 mm (Akaike information criteria Delta-t). For locating fatigue damage on the same specimen, the average error is 20.2 (time of arrival), 4.2 (Delta-t) and 3.4 mm (Akaike information criteria Delta-t). For locating Hsu–Nielsen sources on a composite panel, the average error is 19.3 (time of arrival), 18.9 (Delta-t) and 4.2 mm (Akaike information criteria Delta-t). Finally, the Akaike information criteria Delta-t mapping technique had the lowest average error (3.3 mm) when locating impact events when compared with the Delta-t (18.9 mm) and time of arrival (124.7 mm) techniques. Overall, the Akaike information criteria Delta-t mapping technique is the only technique which demonstrates consistently the lowest average source location error (greatest average error of 4.2 mm) when compared with the Delta-t (greatest average error of 18.9 mm) and time of arrival (greatest average error of 124.7 mm) techniques. These results demonstrate that the Akaike information criteria Delta-t mapping technique is a viable option for acoustic emission source location, increasing the accuracy and likelihood of damage detection, irrespective of material, geometry and source type.
An optimisation toolbox for multi-colour LED lighting
Authors: Afshari S , Moynihan L , Mishra S
Published: October 2016

This paper introduces a software toolbox designed for the optimisation of white light generation using multiple light-emitting diode (LED) channels. The toolbox solves two separate types of multi-colour optimisation problems. These are the multi-channel mixing and the channel choice problems. In the multi-channel mixing problem, it is assumed that the available LEDs are pre-determined and fixed. The toolbox obtains the individual channel intensities that solve a constrained optimisation problem based on the mixed output light. It provides the user with the flexibility to choose an arbitrary formulation for the optimisation problem as well as various mathematical metrics to represent the different properties of the output light including colour rendering, power efficiency and colour accuracy. For the channel choice problem, the toolbox solves for the number and type of used LED channels as well as the intensity of individual channels to assist in optimal choice of deployed channels for luminaire manufacturing applications. This paper describes the graphical user interface and the back-end formulation of the optimisation problem and presents experimental results obtained by utilising the toolbox in a full-size conference room with 5-channel LED luminaires.
Re-configuring inclusion, decolonising practice: Digital participation and learning in Black women’s community-led heritage
Authors: Clarke Rachel , Lewis Rosie M
Published: October 2016

This article explores an innovative model of adult education within museums developed from a Black feminist approach. BAM! Sistahood! is a community-led project with regional heritage organisations, universities and women’s centres in the UK, that offers a holistic approach to heritage development. The ethos is to challenge the perpetuation of existing Eurocentric models of heritage and the historical exclusion experienced by black, Asian, minority ethnic and refugee (BAMER) women when accessing museums and archives. We argue that to be transformative, adult education processes must be sensitive to barriers in participation and encourage shared learning opportunities and change within institutions. Digital technology is an important feature, if configured carefully, enabling alternative models of women’s expertise to be documented and shared.
Expanding the boundaries of museum studies: Popular education through engagement with hidden histories of organising and activism
Authors: Toth Emese R , Guttman Sandy , Kimura Andie , Quinn Therese
Published: October 2016

This article shares a descriptive case study of a popular education project entitled Alternative Tours UIC (ALTourUIC) that took place during a graduate course in the Museum and Exhibition Studies Programme at University of Illinois at Chicago. The educational activities created by the students included a map locating historically rich areas of campus, guided and self-guided tours, and social media spaces inviting participants to contribute stories of campus-based activism. The aims were to make visible marginalised and suppressed histories of activism and organising by members of the campus community at University of Illinois at Chicago. Importantly, this article offers a model of popular education that we recommend be taken up by museums to create greater awareness of frequently unknown and ignored histories and actively engage students in critical learning and investigation.
Learning to feel well at Jamtli Museum: A case study
Authors: Hansen Anna
Published: October 2016

Approximately one-fourth of the population of Sweden will suffer from mental health problems at some point in their lives. This article shares a case study of collaboration between Jamtli Museum and a local hospital (K2) that aimed to provide adult learning opportunities for people with diverse mental health issues. Findings show some differences between how women and men experienced the visits, as well as a marked increase in participants’ confidence, social skills and senses of well-being. New knowledge gained on historical agriculture, as well as skills through working experientially with animals, changed how participants viewed their own capabilities and competencies. As a result, cultural heritage organisations such as Jamtli need to be seen as important pedagogical sites that contribute in multiple ways to human well-being.
Using mistreatment to persist academically
Authors: Richardson Sydney D
Published: October 2016

This study demonstrates adult women college students overcoming challenges due to mistreatment in order to succeed academically. Asking each participant to tell her life story allowed the researcher to find common narratives of mistreatment among them, while using critical feminist and constructivist theories for analysis. As a result, the culmination of the stories showed the power in having protective factors to build resilience and persist in life, as well as in college.
Baccharis trimera inhibits reactive oxygen species production through PKC and down-regulation p47phox phosphorylation of NADPH oxidase in SK Hep-1 cells
Authors: de Araújo Glaucy Rodrigues , Rabelo Ana Carolina Silveira , Meira Janaína Serenato , Rossoni-Júnior Joamyr Victor , Castro-Borges William de , Guerra-Sá Renata , Batista Maurício Azevedo , Silveira-Lemos Denise da , Souza Gustavo Henrique Bianco de , Brandão Geraldo Célio , Chaves Míriam Martins , Costa Daniela Caldeira
Published: October 2016

Baccharis trimera, popularly known as “carqueja”, is a native South-American plant possessing a high concentration of polyphenolic compounds and therefore high antioxidant potential. Despite the antioxidant potential described for B. trimera, there are no reports concerning the signaling pathways involved in this process. So, the aim of the present study was to assess the influence of B. trimera on the modulation of PKC signaling pathway and to characterize the effect of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase enzyme (NOX) on the generation of reactive oxygen species in SK Hep-1 cells. SK-Hep 1 cells were treated with B. trimera, quercetin, or rutin and then stimulated or not with PMA/ionomycin and labeled with carboxy H2DCFDA for detection of reactive oxygen species by flow cytometer. The PKC expression by Western blot and enzyme activity was performed to evaluate the influence of B. trimera and quercetin on PKC signaling pathway. p47 phox and p47 phox phosphorylated expression was performed by Western blot to evaluate the influence of B. trimera on p47 phox phosphorylation. The results showed that cells stimulated with PMA/ionomycin (activators of PKC) showed significantly increased reactive oxygen species production, and this production returned to baseline levels after treatment with DPI (NOX inhibitor). Both B. trimera and quercetin modulated reactive oxygen species production through the inhibition of PKC protein expression and enzymatic activity, also with inhibition of p47 phox phosphorylation. Taken together, these results suggest that B. trimera has a potential mechanism for inhibiting reactive oxygen species production through the PKC signaling pathway and inhibition subunit p47 phox phosphorylation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase.
A Wellness Program for Men With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Ekelman Beth A. , Allison Darcy L. , Duvnjak Dario , DiMarino Dorothy R. , Jodzio John , Iannarelli Paolo V.
Published: October 2016

Little is known about how participating in a wellness program influences the well-being of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The purpose of this study is to explore how men with SCI describe their experiences and meaning of participating in a wellness center program, how they perceived these experiences as influencing their well-being, and how these experiences relate to co-occupations and occupational spin-off concepts. Investigators employed a descriptive qualitative design. Four adult males with an SCI participated in the study. Data collection methods included individual semi-structured interviews and observations. Participation in a wellness program positively influenced the physical, mental, and social well-being of participants. Findings expand our understanding of the value of social environment, social participation, co-occupations, and occupational spin-off. It is essential that occupational therapists promote occupational justice by advocating for clients so they can participate in wellness occupations in the community.
The Role of Testosterone Supplemental Therapy in Opioid-Induced Hypogonadism: A Retrospective Pilot Analysis
Authors: Raheem Omer A. , Patel Sunil H. , Sisul David , Furnish Tim J. , Hsieh Tung-Chin
Published: October 2016

Chronic opioid therapy for pain management is known to induce several endocrine changes. The authors examined the effect of testosterone supplemental therapy (TST) in patients with chronic, noncancer pain undergoing opioid therapy. It was hypothesized that treatment of opioid-induced hypogonadism (OIH) can reduce opioid requirements in patients suffering from chronic pain and approve their quality of life. Over 18 months period, patients with OIH were identified in a tertiary referral pain center, Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) pain scores and daily morphine equivalent dose (MED) were the primary outcomes measured. Data were collected and comparative analysis performed between men undergoing TST versus nontreatment group. Twenty-seven OIH patients (total testosterone <300 ng/dL) were identified during the study period. TST group consists of 11 patients, while non-TST group consists of 16 patients as control cohort. Mean patient age (55 and 54.4, p = .4) and basic metabolic index (28.5 and 31.9, p = .07) in TST and non-TST groups, respectively. Mean follow-up total testosterone (ng/dL) was significantly higher after TST compared with the non-TST group (497.5 vs. 242.4 ng/dL, p = .03). Median follow-up NRS was 0 and 2 in the TST and non-TST groups ( p = .02). Mean MED (mg) decreased by 21 mg in TST group and increased by 2.5 mg in non-TST group ( p < .05). This study reports that treatment of OIH with TST can reduce opioid requirements in men with chronic pain as quantified by MED. It also confirms previous reports on the potential effects of OIH and that TST is effective in correcting opioid-induced endocrine abnormalities.
Piezoelectric transformer-based high conversion ratio interface for driving dielectric actuator in microrobotic applications
Authors: Chen Chen , Liu Meng , Lin Jun , Wang Biao , Wang Yanzhang
Published: October 2016

Dielectric actuators are utilized to convert electrical power into mechanical strain with considerable potential in microrobotic applications. However, critical challenges that need to be addressed include high-voltage interface with high conversion ratio, light weight, small size, and high power density. This study proposes a high piezoelectric transformer-based high conversion ratio interface that is integrated with a direct current/direct current high conversion ratio boost stage and a direct current/alternating current high-voltage driving stage. A piezoelectric transformer-based class-E zero voltage switching direct current/direct current interface is controlled by a hybrid pulse frequency modulation and pulse width modulation control strategies to obtain the desired high step-up ratio in the direct current/direct current stage. A half-bridge converter with special digital control algorithm in the direct current/alternating current stage is designed to convert high direct current voltage into arbitrary unipolar signal driving dielectric actuators. A prototype 23.3 g and 4 W interface has been fabricated for experimental validation to verify its ability to drive a 1 kV input dielectric actuator at 5 Hz in microrobotic applications.
Kinematics and dynamics analysis of a novel 2PC-CPR parallel mechanism
Authors: Lin Sheng , Wang Shuilan , Wang Chun , Zhang Lingxuan , Zhai Yun
Published: October 2016

A novel parallel mechanism of two translations and one rotation freedom degrees two-prismatic joint-cylindrical joint-one-cylindrical joint-prismatic joint-revolute joint (2PC-CPR) is proposed. The mechanism can be applied to write Chinese characters and to classify productions with the appropriated control. In this article, the kinematics and dynamics analysis are systematically conducted with the following procedure. First of all, the 2PC-CPR parallel mechanism is designed by GF set and the freedom degree of the mechanism is calculated using screw theory. Then the formula for solving the inverse/forward displacement, velocity, and acceleration is derived based on the geometrical constraints. The dynamics model is established by using virtual work principle. Finally, kinematics SimMechanics model is created by the co-simulation of SolidWorks and MATLAB software, and its workspace is analyzed.
Performance analysis for a 2 (3HSS+S) parallel manipulator with double moving platforms
Authors: Cheng Gang , Zhao Zunzhong , Shan Xianlei
Published: October 2016

The working efficiency of a parallel manipulator with double moving platforms is better than a parallel manipulator with a single moving platform. In this study, a 2 (3HSS+S) parallel manipulator is presented, and the topology model of the parallel manipulator is established. After calculating, the position and velocity of the manipulator were analysed, and the workspace was obtained under the constraint conditions of parallel manipulator. Within the workspace, the motion dexterity was studied using the reciprocal of the condition number of the motion Jacobian matrix. The static load-bearing performance was analysed through the two norms of the force Jacobian matrix. The two performance indices, which are motion dexterity and static load bearing, indicate that the manipulator has favourable performance characteristics in the range of positive values of angle, which is the rotation in z-axis, but it has a singular position in the range of large negative values of angle. Within the scope of the singular point, the maximum and minimum eigenvalues of the stiffness matrix and the kinematic stiffness index (KSI) were analysed. It has been concluded that the stiffness characteristics are poor near the singular points, and the correctness analysis of the two performance indices has been verified by the results.
Dynamic model of a 3-DOF redundantly actuated parallel manipulator
Authors: Li Tiemin , Jia Shi , Wu Jun
Published: October 2016

We investigate the dynamic mode of a 3-degree of freedom (DOF) redundantly actuated parallel manipulator by taking the flexible deformation of the limbs into account. The dynamic model is derived using Newton–Euler formulation. Since the number of equations derived from the force and moment equilibrium of the parallel manipulator components is less than the number of unknown variables, the flexible deformation of the limbs is treated as an inequality constraint to find the solution of the dynamic model. The errors of moving platform caused by the flexible deformation of limbs are discussed, and a control strategy is given. To validate the model, the dynamic model is integrated with the control system and compared with the traditional method to minimize the normal driving forces.
Output-feedback proportional-integral-derivative-type control with multiple saturating structure for the global stabilization of robot manipulators with bounded inputs
Authors: Zavala-Rio Arturo , Mendoza Marco , Santibanez Victor , Reyes Fernando
Published: October 2016

An output-feedback proportional integral derivative-type control scheme for the global regulation of robot manipulators with constrained inputs is proposed. It guarantees the global stabilization objective—avoiding input saturation—releasing the feedback not only from the exact knowledge of the system structure and parameter values but also from velocity measurements. With respect to previous approaches of the kind, the proposed controller is expressed in a generalized form whence multiple saturating structures may be adopted, thus enlarging the degree of design flexibility. Furthermore, experimental tests on a two-degree-of-freedom direct-drive manipulator corroborate the efficiency of the proposed scheme.
A fully rotational joint underactuated finger mechanism and its kinematics analysis
Authors: Licheng Wu , Yanxuan Kong , Xiali Li
Published: October 2016

The characteristic features of underactuated finger are compact structure, large grasping force, and simple operation. It has a wide application prospect in the fields of industrial robot, humanoid robot, human artificial limb, and space robot. A new type of fully rotating joint linkage-based underactuated mechanism is proposed, and a new method based on the law of minimum resistance is presented to realize the equivalent mechanism at different contact conditions of the finger and the kinematical analysis based on the equivalent mechanism. The kinematic equations and the limit moving position of the mechanism are derived using the proposed method. Finally, the numerical simulation is carried out by MATLAB program. The correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method are verified. The simulation results show that the proposed mechanism has a large grasp space and can achieve good grasp trajectory.
An adaptive unscented Kalman filter-based adaptive tracking control for wheeled mobile robots with control constrains in the presence of wheel slipping
Authors: Cui Mingyue , Liu Hongzhao , Liu Wei , Huang Rongjie , Qin Yi
Published: October 2016

A novel control approach is proposed for trajectory tracking of a wheeled mobile robot with unknown wheels’ slipping. The longitudinal and lateral slipping are considered and processed as three time-varying parameters. The adaptive unscented Kalman filter is then designed to estimate the slipping parameters online, an adaptive adjustment of the noise covariances in the estimation process is implemented using a technique of covariance matching in the adaptive unscented Kalman filter context. Considering the practical physical constrains, a stable tracking control law for this robot system is proposed by the backstepping method. Asymptotic stability is guaranteed by Lyapunov stability theory. Control gains are determined online by applying pole placement method. Simulation and real experiment results show the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control method.
In-plane adaptive retrieval control for a noncooperative target by tethered space robots
Authors: Meng Zhongjie , Wang Bingheng , Huang Panfeng , Liu Zhengxiong
Published: October 2016

Using tether to replace rigid arms, the tethered space robot has more flexibility and security than the traditional space robot, which gives it a wide application prospect in the satellite retrieval. After a noncooperative satellite is captured by the tethered space robot, the tethered space robot and the satellite compose a combination with uncertain mass, inertia, and tether junction position. The tether length, tether deflection, and combination attitude are coupled seriously and control inputs are strictly limited, which make the retrieval of tethered space robot very difficult. First, a retrieval dynamic model of in-plane motion is derived using Lagrangian method. Then, in order to solve the uncertainty problems of dynamics parameters, an adaptive controller and its parameter updating law are proposed using the dynamic inversion theory. Moreover, an anti-windup strategy with auxiliary variables is derived to compensate the limited control inputs. Simulation results validate the feasibility of the proposed adaptive anti-windup control method. The noncooperative satellite is retrieved along the desired trajectory effectively.
Physicochemical qualities and ingestibility of high value-added amlodipine besilate formulations
Authors: Chono Sumio , Yamada Eno , Matsui Megumi , Sato Takuma , Kasai Ryoya
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The physicochemical qualities and ingestibility of high value-added amlodipine besilate formulations were evaluated using one brand name and four generic orally disintegrating tablets (formulations A, B, C, D, and E) and a generic orally disintegrating film (formulation F).

Methods

Pushing out from a press-through package, tablet strength, and hydrophilia were examined for the aforementioned formulations A–E, and sensory characteristics according to the disintegration time, taste, and palatability in healthy subjects were evaluated for formulations A–F.

Results

The strength required for pushing out from a press-through package for formulations A, B, C, D, and E was approximately 20 N, indicating ease of opening for most users. Moreover, hardness and friability of formulations A, B, C, D, and E were more than 0.03 kg/mg and less than 1%, respectively. Thus, all formulations had sufficient tablet strength to endure fall impact in the automatic packing machine and vibration when carrying them from one place to another. The wetting time of formulation E (9 s) was significantly shorter than that of formulations A (27 s), B (34 s), C (28 s), and D (29 s), indicating that with the exception of hydrophilia, the physicochemical qualities of the five aforementioned formulations of orally disintegrating tablets were equivalent. The disintegration time of formulations E (15 s) and F (15 s) in the oral cavity was significantly shorter than that of formulations A (23 s), B (26 s), C (25 s), and D (22 s). Moreover, more than 50% of subjects reported strong or weak bitterness for formulations B, C, D, E, and F. Finally, more than 80% of subjects described formulations A, E, and F as easy to take, indicating good palatability.

Conclusions

This study provides useful information for selecting high value-added amlodipine besilate formulations for individualized treatments.
Exercising the nursing imagination: putting values and scholarship back into research
Authors: Rolfe Gary
Published: October 2016

The number of published nursing research papers has increased exponentially over the past 20 years, partly due to the pressures placed on academics by universities to ‘publish or perish’. Nursing research has become an end in itself, largely divorced from the aims of theory building and practice development, and research findings are accumulating at an alarming and unwieldy rate. This discussion paper explores some of the possible reasons for this shift in the focus of the academic role and calls for a return to scholarship and a far broader understanding of the purpose and practice of research as a form of intellectual craftsmanship. In order to gain a fuller and deeper understanding of the human condition and human suffering necessary for compassionate care, nurse researchers, practitioners and academics need to develop the ‘nursing imagination’ through reflective writing, collaborative inquiry, the arts, humanities, novels and poetry. We should be guided in our research according to the demands of nursing practice and patient care and work towards creating an academic discipline where our work is valued according to the good it does rather than simply responding to the demands of our higher education employers.
Développement et implantation d’une intervention ciblée encourageant le dépistage régulier du VIH chez les travailleuses du sexe au Bénin : application du protocole d’intervention mapping
Authors: Batona Georges , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Guedou Aimé Fernand , Kintin Fréderic D. , Avocè Josephat , Alary Michel
Published: October 2016

Cet article présente le processus suivi pour développer et implanter une intervention ciblée encourageant les femmes travailleuses du sexe (TS) à se faire dépister régulièrement pour le virus de l’immunodéficience humaine (VIH) dans les services de santé adaptés au Bénin. Le modèle de planification d’ intervention mapping (IM) de Bartholomew et al. (2006), structuré en six étapes, a servi de référence pour guider le développement et l’implantation de l’intervention. Une analyse des besoins a été réalisée à partir d’une revue de littérature et d’une étude basée sur la théorie du comportement planifié, d’Ajzen (1991). Cette analyse a permis d’identifier les déterminants associés au comportement sur lesquels ont porté les actions de changement. Les méthodes et stratégies d’intervention ont été basées sur des théories et adaptées aux besoins des femmes TS.

Les résultats consistent en une intervention de neuf mois visant à couvrir plus de 1200 femmes TS, en impliquant divers acteurs (intervenants communautaires, agents de santé et pairs éducatrices). La perception de contrôle comportemental, la norme descriptive, les connaissances, l’attitude et l’intention d’adopter le dépistage régulier du VIH constituent les cibles d’action. L’intervention comporte des activités visant des changements individuels et environnementaux à travers diverses méthodes comme le counseling motivationnel, l’éducation par les pairs, le modeling, la communication persuasive, le renforcement de capacités et la réorganisation des services cliniques.

L’IM a permis de structurer et d’implanter avec transparence une intervention ciblée visant l’adoption d’un comportement favorable à la santé chez les femmes TS. Les enjeux rencontrés et les leçons tirées de l’application de l’IM en contexte africain francophone peuvent inspirer les planificateurs et professionnels pour améliorer leurs interventions en promotion de la santé.
Superior Labral Anterior-Posterior (SLAP) Tears in the Military
Authors: Rossy William , Sanchez George , Sanchez Anthony , Provencher Matthew T.
Published: October 2016

Context:

Given the notable physical demands placed on active members of the military, comprehension of recent trends in management and outcomes of superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears in this patient population is critical for successful treatment.

Evidence Acquisition:

Electronic databases, including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase, were reviewed for the years 1985 through 2016.

Study Design:

Database review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 5.

Results:

Active members of the military are at increased risk of sustaining shoulder injuries, particularly SLAP tears. Recent trends in management of SLAP lesions have shifted toward operative intervention. In the correct patient population, repairs of superior labrum tears demonstrate improved function and pain. Surgical repair of SLAP tears, especially in young and active military personnel, is supported.

Conclusion:

Military personnel are at greater risk of suffering a SLAP tear in comparison with their civilian counterparts. Surgical repair of these lesions is advocated in this subpopulation when the patient is younger than approximately 36 years of age, and if older, biceps tenodesis is likely superior.
Light Bulbs or Seeds? How Metaphors for Ideas Influence Judgments About Genius
Authors: Elmore Kristen C. , Luna-Lucero Myra
Published: October 2016

Ideas are commonly described using metaphors; a bright idea appears like a “light bulb” or the “seed” of an idea takes root. However, little is known about how these metaphors may shape beliefs about ideas or the role of effort versus genius in their creation, an important omission given the known motivational consequences of such beliefs. We explore whether the light bulb metaphor, although widespread and intuitively appealing, may foster the belief that innovative ideas are exceptional occurrences that appear suddenly and effortlessly—inferences that may be particularly compatible with gendered stereotypes of genius as male. Across three experiments, we find evidence that these metaphors influence judgments of idea quality and perceptions of an inventor’s genius. Moreover, these effects varied by the inventor’s gender and reflected prevailing gender stereotypes: Whereas the seed (vs. light bulb) metaphor increased the perceived genius of female inventors, the opposite pattern emerged for male inventors.
Multi-compartmental biomaterial scaffolds for patterning neural tissue organoids in models of neurodevelopment and tissue regeneration
Authors: McMurtrey Richard J
Published: October 2016

Biomaterials are becoming an essential tool in the study and application of stem cell research. Various types of biomaterials enable three-dimensional culture of stem cells, and, more recently, also enable high-resolution patterning and organization of multicellular architectures. Biomaterials also hold potential to provide many additional advantages over cell transplants alone in regenerative medicine. This article describes novel designs for functionalized biomaterial constructs that guide tissue development to targeted regional identities and structures. Such designs comprise compartmentalized regions in the biomaterial structure that are functionalized with molecular factors that form concentration gradients through the construct and guide stem cell development, axis patterning, and tissue architecture, including rostral/caudal, ventral/dorsal, or medial/lateral identities of the central nervous system. The ability to recapitulate innate developmental processes in a three-dimensional environment and under specific controlled conditions has vital application to advanced models of neurodevelopment and for repair of specific sites of damaged or diseased neural tissue.
Making Digital Cultures of Gender and Sexuality With Social Media
Authors: Burgess Jean , Cassidy Elija , Duguay Stefanie , Light Ben
Published: October 2016

This article introduces a special issue concerning the interweaving of gender, sexuality, and social media. There are 10 articles included in the issue which together map out a landscape of diverse areas of interest covering topics such as sexism and harassment, health and wellbeing, relationships, and leisure.
Rethinking Economic Conditions and Environmental Attitudes: Macroeconomic Effects, Individual Experiences, and Subjectivity
Authors: Mayer Adam , Smith E. Keith
Published: October 2016

The global environmental concern literature has focused on economic development as a contextual predictor of environmental attitudes with conflicting empirical results. Some studies, informed by postmaterialist theory or the affluence hypothesis, find that national affluence increases environmental concern, whereas others find the opposite. In this article, we qualify the economy and environmental attitude relationship by arguing that it has several dimensions: long-term macroeconomic history, short-term economic growth, individuals’ recent economic experiences, individuals’ subjective understandings of the national economy, and their personal economic circumstances. This holistic framework is operationalized with multilevel models and data from the Life in Transition II project, using outcomes for climate change attitudes. We find that recent economic hardships at the individual level (e.g., a job loss) have a positive to null effect. More subjectively, respondents who believe that the recent global recession had a negative effect on their household are more concerned with climate change. At the country level, long-run economic development does little to explain cross-national differences in climate change attitudes whereas short-run, relative economic growth increases both climate change concern and willingness to pay for climate policy. More broadly, future research should de-emphasize long-run, macroeconomic conditions as determinants of environmental attitudes.
Neural Spike-Train Analyses of the Speech-Based Envelope Power Spectrum Model
Authors: Rallapalli Varsha H. , Heinz Michael G.
Published: October 2016

Diagnosing and treating hearing impairment is challenging because people with similar degrees of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) often have different speech-recognition abilities. The speech-based envelope power spectrum model (sEPSM) has demonstrated that the signal-to-noise ratio (SNRENV) from a modulation filter bank provides a robust speech-intelligibility measure across a wider range of degraded conditions than many long-standing models. In the sEPSM, noise (N) is assumed to: (a) reduce S + N envelope power by filling in dips within clean speech (S) and (b) introduce an envelope noise floor from intrinsic fluctuations in the noise itself. While the promise of SNRENV has been demonstrated for normal-hearing listeners, it has not been thoroughly extended to hearing-impaired listeners because of limited physiological knowledge of how SNHL affects speech-in-noise envelope coding relative to noise alone. Here, envelope coding to speech-in-noise stimuli was quantified from auditory-nerve model spike trains using shuffled correlograms, which were analyzed in the modulation-frequency domain to compute modulation-band estimates of neural SNRENV. Preliminary spike-train analyses show strong similarities to the sEPSM, demonstrating feasibility of neural SNRENV computations. Results suggest that individual differences can occur based on differential degrees of outer- and inner-hair-cell dysfunction in listeners currently diagnosed into the single audiological SNHL category. The predicted acoustic-SNR dependence in individual differences suggests that the SNR-dependent rate of susceptibility could be an important metric in diagnosing individual differences. Future measurements of the neural SNRENV in animal studies with various forms of SNHL will provide valuable insight for understanding individual differences in speech-in-noise intelligibility.
Normal and Time-Compressed Speech
Authors: Schlueter Anne , Lemke Ulrike , Kollmeier Birger , Holube Inga
Published: October 2016

Short-term and long-term learning effects were investigated for the German Oldenburg sentence test (OLSA) using original and time-compressed fast speech in noise. Normal-hearing and hearing-impaired participants completed six lists of the OLSA in five sessions. Two groups of normal-hearing listeners (24 and 12 listeners) and two groups of hearing-impaired listeners (9 listeners each) performed the test with original or time-compressed speech. In general, original speech resulted in better speech recognition thresholds than time-compressed speech. Thresholds decreased with repetition for both speech materials. Confirming earlier results, the largest improvements were observed within the first measurements of the first session, indicating a rapid initial adaptation phase. The improvements were larger for time-compressed than for original speech. The novel results on long-term learning effects when using the OLSA indicate a longer phase of ongoing learning, especially for time-compressed speech, which seems to be limited by a floor effect. In addition, for normal-hearing participants, no complete transfer of learning benefits from time-compressed to original speech was observed. These effects should be borne in mind when inviting listeners repeatedly, for example, in research settings.
Racial Disparities in Diabetes Hospitalization of Rural Medicare Beneficiaries in 8 Southeastern States
Authors: Wan Thomas T. H. , Lin Yi-Ling , Ortiz Judith
Published: October 2016

This study examined racial variability in diabetes hospitalizations attributable to contextual, organizational, and ecological factors controlling for patient variabilities treated at rural health clinics (RHCs). The pooled cross-sectional data for 2007 through 2013 for RHCs were aggregated from Medicare claim files of patients served by RHCs. Descriptive statistics were presented to illustrate the general characteristics of the RHCs in 8 southeastern states. Regression of the dependent variable on selected predictors was conducted using a generalized estimating equation method. The risk-adjusted diabetes mellitus (DM) hospitalization rates slightly declined in 7 years from 3.55% to 2.40%. The gap between the crude and adjusted rates became wider in the African American patient group but not in the non-Hispanic white patient group. The average DM disparity ratio increased 17.7% from the pre-Affordable Care Act (ACA; 1.47) to the post-ACA period (1.73) for the African American patient group. The results showed that DM disparity ratios did not vary significantly by contextual, organizational, and individual factors for African Americans. Non-Hispanic white patients residing in large and small rural areas had higher DM disparity ratios than other rural areas. The results of this study confirm racial disparities in DM hospitalizations. Future research is needed to identify the underlying reasons for such racial disparities to guide the formulation of effective and efficient changes in DM care management practices coupled with the emphasis of culturally competent, primary and preventive care.
Feasibility Study of a Mobile Health Intervention for Older Adults on Oral Anticoagulation Therapy
Authors: Lee Jung-Ah , Evangelista Lorraine S. , Moore Alison A. , Juth Vanessa , Guo Yuqing , Gago-Masague Sergio , Lem Carolyn G. , Nguyen Michelle , Khatibi Parmis , Baje Mark , Amin Alpesh N.
Published: October 2016

Background: Oral anticoagulation treatment (OAT) such as warfarin therapy is recommended for older adults with atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or who are at risk for venous thromboembolism. Despite its proven benefits, older adults report both dissatisfaction with OAT and reduced quality of life that can potentially lead to low adherence to OAT and decreased treatment efficacy. Objective: To test the feasibility of Mobile Applications for Seniors to enhance Safe anticoagulation therapy (MASS), a mobile-based health technology intervention designed to promote independence and self-care. Methods: This pilot study used a single-arm experimental pre–post design to test the feasibility of a 3-month intervention using MASS in 18 older adults (male: n = 14; White: n = 9; Hispanic: n = 7; Other: n = 2; M age = 67). MASS was available in English or Spanish. Participants completed surveys about their OAT knowledge, attitudes, quality of life with OAT, and adherence at baseline and at a 3-month follow-up. Satisfaction with the MASS intervention was also assessed at follow-up. Results: Anticoagulation knowledge significantly improved from baseline to follow-up ( Mbase = 12.5 ± 5.51, Mfollow-up = 14.78 ± 3.93, p = .007). Other outcomes were not different, pre- and post-tests. Participants reported they were generally satisfied with MASS, its ease of use and its usefulness. Conclusion: The results showed use of MASS improved older adults’ knowledge of OAT. Using mHealth apps may enhance self-care among older adults with chronic conditions who are also taking oral anticoagulants.
Development and Validation of a Health Information Technology Curriculum: Toward More Meaningful Use of Electronic Health Records
Authors: Chatterji Madhabi , Tripken Jennifer , Johnson Sara , Koh Nancy , Sabain Syncia , Allegrante John P. , Kukafka Rita
Published: October 2016

The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) initiative of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in the United States was intended to promote meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs). This article reports on a comprehensive, three-stage model employed to develop, validate, and facilitate regional implementation of a health care information technology curriculum for workforce development as part of that coordinated national effort. Building on needs assessed at the national level, the the stages involved: (a) curriculum design, (b) assuring quality of curricular products through validation and revision, and (c) design of a systems-based, curriculum implementation and evaluation protocol. The objective of the project was to prepare health care professionals with competencies necessary to implement EHRs meaningfully, thereby improving patient care. We produced content-validated and usable versions of curriculum goal frameworks, student learning outcomes, instructional materials, multiple-choice tests, and performance assessments for 40 HITECH units across four curriculum components: (a) Public Health IT, (b) Vendor Specific Systems, (c) Usability and Human Factors, and (d) Training and Instructional Design. The three-stage approach is an innovative, replicable, and stakeholder-oriented method that fills a gap in the health care literature for curriculum design.
On Choosing an Optimal Dividend Policy in India: A Test of Substitution Hypothesis, 1999–2016
Authors: Kamat Manoj Subhash , Kamat Manasvi M.
Published: October 2016

We aim to highlight quantitative significance of share buyback in an emerging economy, India by documenting its emergence and trends in stock over time, 1991–2011. The market reaction to the impact of stock repurchase program and dividend increase announcements on share price behavior and their relative signaling power with reference to Indian firms is empirically tested. Further, the problem at hand is to provide insights to what are the determinants of the choice between increasing dividends and utilizing an open market stock repurchase and the impact of that choice on the stockholders’ wealth position in India. The analysis is conducted from two points of view. First, we investigated how the market perceives and reacts to announcements of cash distribution method through dividend increase and to share repurchase. Second, we looked into what determinates corporate payout policy when marginal disbursements could be done with either dividend increase or stock repurchases. Some evidence is provided to reject the null hypotheses that managers do not discriminate in their choice of a payout method. Dividend paying and stock repurchasing firms display significant differences in firm characteristics. Further, firms do not appear to randomly choose between the various disbursements choices. Though weakly, our results suggests that large firms like to substitute repurchases for dividends.
Special Economic Zone, Land Acquisition, and Impact on Rural India
Authors: Parwez Sazzad , Sen Vinod
Published: October 2016

This article examines the dimensions of land acquisition with respect to establishment of economic zones across India. The enactment of Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Act 2005 allows the government to transfer the land acquired for public purpose under the Land Acquisition Act to the private companies for development. For private firms, land turning into most significant incentive for being part of SEZ scheme and profit maximization. It has been observed that large part of acquired land ends up in the hands of the real estate companies rather than intended productive sectors of industry and infrastructure. Land is the principal source of livelihood in an agrarian economy. Forcible acquisition and transfer of land to corporates leads to large-scale unemployment and displacement, especially when large part of tract remains unutilized. It raises many questions on objective and process of establishment of SEZs. The absence of land use the policy is primarily culprit for faulty diversion of land agriculture along with underutilization of available land. The extreme nature of these SEZs needs to be analyzed through proper policy making.
The Political Economy of Tricycle Transportation Business in Osogbo Metropolis: Lessons for a Developing Economy
Authors: Bamidele Oluwaseun
Published: October 2016

The recent burgeoning growth in the commercial tricycle also known as “Keke NAPEP” in Nigeria could generally be attributed to its inherent advantages of door-to-door service, maneuverability during traffic congestion, ability to travel on poor roads, and ease of responsiveness to demand. In this way, much of the academic energy has been dissipated by transport geographers on the traffic relevance of the tricycle, especially as a commercial means of providing mobility. However, the mutually related essence of transport and employment that led to the popularity of the tricycle in most cities in Nigeria is fast extending to multidimensional problems of economy, politics, and social malaise. The objective in this study, therefore, is to find out these other underlying political, economic, and social factors overshadowing the mobility relevance of the tricycle as a transport business in Osogbo metropolis. It is also aimed at articulating the future lessons for a developing economy as Nigeria and evolves a policy option. A total of 500 questionnaires were applied on the commercial tricycle riders in a field survey. The survey made use of Osun State and Osogbo mainly. This involved the use of probabilistic sampling method with random techniques to pick 500 respondents from Osogbo metropolis and some other parts of Osun State as well. My critical discovery in this study is that, about 61.6 percent of our respondents agreed that they are engaged in “Keke NAPEP” business having abandoned their various trades as artisans, not because of the prospect of buoyant economy but because daily income is sure and almost certain. This is dangerous for a developing economy like that of Nigeria from all indications. The general prediction in this study is that by 2020, Nigeria’s productive economy would have declined to a ridiculous extent as employment generation, technical education, and self-reliant job growth would have been trapped by the “Keke NAPEP” economy. Again, the study shows that “Keke NAPEP Unions” are becoming second arms of political parties, forming strong pressure influences and “stated groups”, which can be motivated by politicians to attain political gains. They could also, in turn, disrupt societal peace if dumped after use. On social hazards, this study confirms an increasing rate of accidents and kidnappings with the use of tricycles on our roads. To correct these anomalies and secure a sociopolitical and economic future for the country as a developing nation, there is the need for the country to lift itself from the impending shrunk of productive economy, attain a better height of political behavior, and rescue something out of the present downward slope of our social ethics; the study therefore recommends a total ban or a restriction on the use of commercial tricycles as one of the crucial steps to be taken.