bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Cardiac Metabolism
Authors: Taegtmeyer Heinrich , Young Martin E. , Lopaschuk Gary D. , Abel E. Dale , Brunengraber Henri , Darley-Usmar Victor , Des Rosiers Christine , Gerszten Robert , Glatz Jan F. , Griffin Julian L. , Gropler Robert J. , Holzhuetter Hermann-Georg , Kizer Jorge R. , Lewandowski E. Douglas , Malloy Craig R. , Neubauer Stefan , Peterson Linda R. , Portman Michael A. , Recchia Fabio A. , Van Eyk Jennifer E. , Wang Thomas J.
Published: March 2016

In a complex system of interrelated reactions, the heart converts chemical energy to mechanical energy. Energy transfer is achieved through coordinated activation of enzymes, ion channels, and contractile elements, as well as structural and membrane proteins. The heart’s needs for energy are difficult to overestimate. At a time when the cardiovascular research community is discovering a plethora of new molecular methods to assess cardiac metabolism, the methods remain scattered in the literature. The present statement on “Assessing Cardiac Metabolism” seeks to provide a collective and curated resource on methods and models used to investigate established and emerging aspects of cardiac metabolism. Some of those methods are refinements of classic biochemical tools, whereas most others are recent additions from the powerful tools of molecular biology. The aim of this statement is to be useful to many and to do justice to a dynamic field of great complexity.
Paths of Acculturation and Social Inclusion. Migration, Marriage Opportunities and Assortative Mating by Geographic Origin in Antwerp, 1846–1920
Authors: Puschmann Paul , Driessche Nina Van den , Matthijs Koen , de Putte Bart Van
Published: March 2016

Partner choice and marriage are used as indicators of paths of acculturation and social inclusion among migrants who moved as singles to Antwerp. Whereas scholars previously studied either the timing and intensity of marriage among migrants or the degree to which migrants married natives, we utilise a model which combines both approaches, linking four different meeting and mating outcomes to four acculturation trajectories. The event history analyses show that, in line with studies from the Chicago School of sociology, migrants were marginalised at a large scale. However, this was not a result of economic hardship, limited skills or the rural background of the migrant, but related to ethnic and cultural differences. Stayers and leavers had equal risks of facing marginalisation. Being born in the direct hinterland and moving early to the city increased the likelihood of experiencing assimilation.
Dasylirion micropterum (Asparagaceae), a new species from Sierra Madre Oriental, Mexico
Authors: VILLARREAL-QUINTANILLA JOSÉ A. , ESTRADA-CASTILLÓN EDUARDO , REYES-VALDÉS M. HUMBERTO , ENCINA-DOMÍNGUEZ JUAN A. , MARTÍNEZ OCTAVIO , HERNÁNDEZ-GODINEZ FERNANDO
Published: March 2016

Dasylirion micropterum is described as a new species from high elevations of the Sierra Madre Oriental in the Mexican state of Coahuila. It differs from known species of Dasylirion for having ascending dark green leaves, narrow inflorescences, small fruits with narrow wings and its distribution restricted to the western side of the Sierra Madre Oriental. The identity of the new species was confirmed through the sequence of matK and rbcL plastid DNA regions. GenBank sequences accessions are included. An illustration, photos and a distribution map are presented for the new species.
Self-harm following release from prison: A prospective data linkage study
Authors: Borschmann Rohan , Thomas Emma , Moran Paul , Carroll Megan , Heffernan Ed , Spittal Matthew J , Sutherland Georgina , Alati Rosa , Kinner Stuart A
Published: March 2016

Objective:

Prisoners are at increased risk of both self-harm and suicide compared with the general population, and the risk of suicide after release from prison is three times greater than for those still incarcerated. However, surprisingly little is known about the incidence of self-harm following release from prison. We aimed to determine the incidence of, identify risk factors for and characterise emergency department presentations resulting from self-harm in adults after release from prison.

Method:

Cohort study of 1325 adults interviewed prior to release from prison, linked prospectively with State correctional and emergency department records. Data from all emergency department presentations resulting from self-harm were secondarily coded to characterise these presentations. We used negative binomial regression to identify independent predictors of such presentations.

Results:

During 3192 person-years of follow-up (median 2.6 years per participant), there were 3755 emergency department presentations. In all, 83 (6.4%) participants presented due to self-harm, accounting for 165 (4.4%) presentations. The crude incidence rates of self-harm for males and females were 49.2 (95% confidence interval: [41.2, 58.7]) and 60.5 (95% confidence interval: [44.9, 81.6]) per 1000 person-years, respectively. Presenting due to self-harm was associated with being Indigenous (incidence rate ratio: 2.01; 95% confidence interval: [1.11, 3.62]), having a lifetime history of a mental disorder (incidence rate ratio: 2.13; 95% confidence interval: [1.19, 3.82]), having previously been hospitalised for psychiatric treatment (incidence rate ratio: 2.68; 95% confidence interval: [1.40, 5.14]) and having previously presented due to self-harm (incidence rate ratio: 3.91; 95% confidence interval: [1.85, 8.30]).

Conclusion:

Following release from prison, one in 15 ex-prisoners presented to an emergency department due to self-harm, within an average of 2.6 years of release. Demographic and mental health variables help to identify at-risk groups, and such presentations could provide opportunities for suicide prevention in this population. Transition from prison to the community is challenging, particularly for those with a history of mental disorder; mental health support during and after release may reduce the risk of adverse outcomes, including self-harm.
Mechanical properties of 3D-woven composites with guide sleeves
Authors: Wu Xiaochuan , Shan Zhongde , Liu Feng , Wang Yuan
Published: March 2016

In this study, the preforms of 3D woven composite materials were made by a flexible oriented 3D composite woven process. The vacuum-assisted resin infusion (VARI) process was used to impregnate the preforms. The short-beam shear test, the compression test, and SEM were used to investigate the interlaminar shear performance and the compression behavior of the 3D woven composite with guide sleeves, and the effect of the guide sleeves on the above properties. It is indicated that the interlaminar shear behavior of 3D woven composites with guide sleeves showed the typical fracture characteristics of a pseudoplastic material. And the fracture modes of interlaminar shear mainly include interlaminar shear fracture and tensile fracture of fibers at the bottom. The interlaminar shear strength of materials increased with the diameter and interval of guide sleeves decreasing. Furthermore, the loss of in-plane compression properties of the materials brought by guide sleeves could be effectively avoided by reasonable control of the diameter and the volume fracture of guide sleeves.
Tertiary Dentin Formation after Indirect Pulp Capping Using Protein CPNE7
Authors: Choung H.W. , Lee D.S. , Lee Ji-Hyun , Shon W.J. , Lee Jong-Ho , Ku Y. , Park J.C.
Published: March 2016

If there is a partial loss of dentin, the exposed dentinal surface should be protected by an indirect pulp capping (IPC) procedure to preserve pulp vitality and prevent symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity. In our previous study, copine7 (CPNE7) induced odontoblast differentiation in vitro and promoted dentin formation in vivo. The aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of IPC therapy using the CPNE7 protein at the exposed dentinal surface and the resulting effects on tertiary dentin formation in a beagle model. CPNE7 promoted mineralization of odontoblasts and had high calcium ion-binding capacity. The in vivo IPC model with canine teeth showed that regeneration of physiologic reactionary dentin with dentinal tubule structures was clearly observed beneath the remaining dentin in the CPNE7 group, whereas irregular features of reparative dentin were generated in the mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) group. The CPNE7+MTA group also showed typical reactionary dentin without reparative dentin, showing synergistic effects of CPNE7 with MTA. A scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that dentinal tubules beneath the original dentin were occluded by the deposition of peritubular dentin in the CPNE7 and CPNE7+MTA groups, whereas those in the control group were opened. Therefore, CPNE7 may be able to serve as a novel IPC material and improve symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity.
Clinical Significance and Roles in Angiogenesis of Circulating Microparticles in Oral Cancer
Authors: Ren J.G. , Zhang W. , Liu B. , Man Q.W. , Xiong X.P. , Li C. , Zhu J.Y. , Wang W.M. , Jia J. , Sun Z.J. , Zhang W.F. , Chen G. , Zhao Y.F.
Published: March 2016

Our recent study established the increased circulating microparticles (MPs) and their procoagulant activity in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). In the present study, we further evaluated different phenotypes of circulating MPs in OSCC patients and explored their clinical significance and effects on angiogenesis (a critical event in tumor progression). To conduct the study, circulating MPs in 45 OSCC patients and 18 healthy volunteers were characterized and quantified by transmission electron microscopy and flow cytometry. Correlations between circulating MPs and clinicopathologic data, microvessel density, and proangiogenic factor levels in patients with OSCC were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and Spearman rank correlation test. Additionally, the in vitro studies were performed with use of human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Our results showed that the levels of circulating MPs as well as the subsets of platelet-derived, endothelium-derived, and pan-leukocyte MPs in stages III to IV OSCC were significantly higher than stages I to II and healthy subjects. Moreover, these increased circulating MPs were significantly correlated with tumor size, TNM stages, microvessel density, and expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) in OSCC patients. The in vitro studies revealed that circulating MPs isolated from OSCC patients could be effectively taken up by human umbilical vein endothelial cells and could promote the proliferation, migration, invasion, and tube formation of recipient endothelial cells, accompanied by increased expression of proangiogenic factors. In summary, circulating MPs play important roles in angiogenesis and local tumor progression of OSCC. Our results shed new light on the progression of OSCC and might be helpful to explore novel treatment strategies targeting tumor angiogenesis.
The Dead Who Become Angels
Authors: Walter Tony
Published: March 2016

Some 21st-century mourners describe the deceased as becoming an angel. Using published research, along with opportunist and anecdotal sources, the following questions are explored: who becomes an angel? Who addresses them as angels? What do once-human angels do? What are they? Where and when are they encountered? And in what sense are they believed in? Once-human angels are found in cemeteries, in memorial tattoos, at the deathbed, but mainly online—both internet and angel are mediums or messengers linking this world and the next. Unlike passive souls cut off in heaven from the living, angels have agency, (a) continuing their earthly activities in heaven and (b) looking after those on earth who still need their care and guidance. The once-human angel thus expresses a continuing bond between the living and the dead, particularly important for younger mourners who may live many decades before joining the deceased in heaven. This notion is taught by neither churches nor popular culture; it is not a creedal belief, but an idea, a meme, that some mourners use—and creatively develop—in particular contexts and may be understood as vernacular religion.
Online Grief Support Communities
Authors: Hartig Jeanne , Viola Judah
Published: March 2016

Online grief support communities have become popular in recent years for those seeking information and empathetic others following the death of someone close to them. Hundreds of Facebook pages and Web sites are now devoted to bereavement—and health-care professionals need to assess what therapeutic benefits virtual communities might offer to help people manage grief and integrate death into their lives. In the current study of online grief support networks ( N = 185), individuals report less psychological distress as a result of joining these groups—and this psychosocial benefit increased over time. Individuals who were members for a year or more characterized their grief as less severe compared with those who had a shorter tenure in the community. Additional findings and implications are discussed.
Professionally Led Peer Support Group Process After the School Shooting in Finland
Authors: Turunen Tuija , Punamäki Raija-Leena
Published: March 2016

Background

Traumatic grief is a risk factor for psychological and physiological impairment. In a school shooting incident in Finland, several people lost their lives, and a large number of bereaved family members were at risk for traumatic grief. Psychosocial support for these bereaved was therefore essential, and this article describes a program that was developed for that purpose.

Method

Professionally led peer support group process was provided for the relatives of the deceased in the school shooting in Kauhajoki, Finland, 2008. The 2-year-long process consisted of five weekend gatherings with psychoeducative and group-work elements. The content of the process was based on the existing knowledge of and recommendations for enhancing recovery after a traumatic loss.

Results

On the average, 50 relatives of the deceased in the school shooting participated in the process. The process was based on the principles of (a) timing of the group work and interventions according to stages of bereavement, (b) psychoeducation, awareness rising, and recognizing the signs of posttraumatic symptoms, (c) attachment theory-based elements in parents' and siblings' grief and group work, and (d) encouraging cohesion and strength of families' natural networks and support systems.

Conclusion

Professionally led peer support group process is a trauma-theory-based intervention, which reaches a large number of the bereaved with similar loss. Via group work, psychoeducation, and shared rituals, the bereaved have an opportunity to share and express emotions and experiences, as well as increase their skills in psychological recovery after a violent death of a family member.
Autonomy as a Prospective Predictor of Perceived Burdensomeness and Thwarted Belongingness Through Symptoms of Depression
Authors: O'Keefe Victoria M. , Grant DeMond M. , Tucker Raymond P. , Lechner William V. , Mills Adam C. , Judah Matt R. , Wingate LaRicka R.
Published: March 2016

This study examined the relationship between sociotropy, autonomy, depression symptoms, perceived burdensomeness, and thwarted belongingness in a sample of 113 undergraduate students. A prospective design with three time points was utilized to determine whether personality styles and depression symptoms play a role in the development of perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, two interpersonal suicide risk factors. Time 1 autonomy predicted depression symptoms at Time 2; Time 2 depression symptoms predicted thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness at Time 3. Results suggest depression symptoms mediate the relationship between autonomy and thwarted belongingness, and autonomy and perceived burdensomeness. This study contributes to understanding how the presence of specific personality traits may lead to depression symptoms, which in turn leads to perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness. Clinical implications, including assessment of autonomy, and perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, are discussed.
Register Variation on the Searchable Web
Authors: Biber Douglas , Egbert Jesse
Published: March 2016

Most previous linguistic investigations of the web have focused on special linguistic features associated with Internet language (e.g., the use of emoticons, abbreviations, contractions, and acronyms) and the “new” Internet registers that are especially salient to observers (e.g., blogs, Internet forums, instant messages, tweets). Multi-Dimensional (MD) analysis has also been used to analyze Internet registers, focusing on core grammatical features (e.g., nouns, verbs, prepositional phrases). MD research differs theoretically and methodologically from most other research approaches in linguistics in that it is built on the notion of linguistic co-occurrence, with the claim that register differences are best described in terms of sets of co-occurring linguistic features that have a functional underpinning. At the same time, though, most previous MD studies are similar to other previous research in their focus on new Internet registers, such as blogs, Facebook/Twitter posts, and email messages. These are the registers that we immediately think of in association with the Internet, and thus it makes sense that they should be the focus of most previous research. However, that emphasis means that we know surprisingly little at present about the full range of registers found on the web and the patterns of linguistic variation among those registers. This is the goal of the present study. Rather than beginning with a focus on new registers that are assumed to be interesting, we analyze a representative sample of the entire searchable web. End-users coded the situational and communicative characteristics of each document in our corpus, leading to a much wider range of register categories than that used in any previous linguistic study: eight general categories; several hybrid register categories; and twenty-seven specific register categories. This approach thus leads to a much more inclusive and diverse sample of web registers than that found in any previous study of English Internet language. The goal of the present study is to document the patterns of linguistic variation among those registers. Using MD analysis, we explore the dimensions of linguistic variation on the searchable web, and the similarities and differences among web registers with respect to those dimensions.
Validation of the Bolino and Turnley Impression Management Scale
Authors: Karam Candice Natasha-Anne , Sekaja Lusanda , Geldenhuys Madelyn
Published: March 2016

Despite the personal and organisational benefits and pitfalls associated with Impression Management, and considering the diverse nature of its population, South Africa is yet to develop, validate or adapt its own measure of impression management. The aim of this study was to validate the Bolino and Turnley Impression Management Scale for use in South Africa. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design was employed using a sample of students from a South African university in Gauteng ( N = 296). The exploratory factor analysis results show support for the five-factor model of the Impression Management Scale. The validation of the measure indicates sound psychometric properties and is therefore a valid predictor of impression management behaviour. The instrument may therefore be used in the South African university context to measure impression management behaviour. Recommendations include a validation of the same scale in an organisational setting.
Analysis of individual differences in radiosensitivity using genome editing
Authors: Matsuura S. , Royba E. , Akutsu S.N. , Yanagihara H. , Ochiai H. , Kudo Y. , Tashiro S. , Miyamoto T.
Published: March 2016

Current standards for radiological protection of the public have been uniformly established. However, individual differences in radiosensitivity are suggested to exist in human populations, which could be caused by nucleotide variants of DNA repair genes. In order to verify if such genetic variants are responsible for individual differences in radiosensitivity, they could be introduced into cultured human cells for evaluation. This strategy would make it possible to analyse the effect of candidate nucleotide variants on individual radiosensitivity, independent of the diverse genetic background. However, efficient gene targeting in cultured human cells is difficult due to the low frequency of homologous recombination (HR) repair. The development of artificial nucleases has enabled efficient HR-mediated genome editing to be performed in cultured human cells. A novel genome editing strategy, ‘transcription activator-like effector nuclease (TALEN)-mediated two-step single base pair editing’, has been developed, and this was used to introduce a nucleotide variant associated with a chromosomal instability syndrome bi-allelically into cultured human cells to demonstrate that it is the causative mutation. It is proposed that this editing technique will be useful to investigate individual radiosensitivity.
Internet-based ICRP resource for healthcare providers on the risks and benefits of medical imaging that uses ionising radiation
Authors: Demeter S. , Applegate K.E. , Perez M.
Published: March 2016

The purpose of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) Committee 3 Working Party was to update the 2001 web-based module ‘Radiation and your patient: a guide for medical practitioners’ from ICRP. The key elements of this task were: to clearly identify the target audience (such as healthcare providers with an emphasis on primary care); to review other reputable sources of information; and to succinctly publish the contribution made by ICRP to the various topics. A ‘question-and-answer’ format addressing practical topics was adopted. These topics included benefits and risks of imaging using ionising radiation in common medical situations, as well as pertaining to specific populations such as pregnant, breast-feeding, and paediatric patients. In general, the benefits of medical imaging and related procedures far outweigh the potential risks associated with ionising radiation exposure. However, it is still important to ensure that the examinations are clinically justified, that the procedure is optimised to deliver the lowest dose commensurate with the medical purpose, and that consideration is given to diagnostic reference levels for particular classes of examinations.
Preparations for retirement in Sweden: Migrant perspectives
Authors: Harrysson Lars , Montesino Norma , Werner Erika
Published: March 2016

Migrants as a group are recognised as being at risk of receiving low retirement pensions. Income over a lifetime is the principle for calculating pension rights. We have interviewed a group of migrants about their retirement preparations. Our results show that there are obstacles that obstruct migrants from entering the Swedish labour market, which will greatly influence future pension rights. There are various lock-in effects that isolate migrants from the labour market and thus affect their present and future financial situation. Examples are labour market policy activities and that the minimum level pensions have mobility restrictions. These trajectories are set in perspective to Nancy Fraser’s reasoning on justice in a transnational setting and Yeheskel Hasenfeld’s reflections on people processing. An important implication from our findings is the need to explore ways to include a group that is currently excluded from the labour market, hence adequate retirement income protection.
The survival of non-capitalism
Authors: Hesketh Chris
Published: March 2016

This article explores the importance of non-capitalist space within the global political economy. The issue of how to categorise and understand space in so-called peripheral regions such as Latin America has been a contentious one. Whilst many radical analyses have focused on the dynamics of capitalism in relation to the geography of development, explaining how it has been able to survive and grow, this article makes the case for a more multi-linear theoretical framework with which to view the socio-economic landscape. This is inspired not only by the later writings of Marx but also the specific Marxian class analysis of those involved in Rethinking Marxism. Via a focus on Oaxaca in southern Mexico, this article highlights both the survival and the recreation of spaces of non-capitalism, and provides an argument for why we should consider these to be important for transformative action more broadly, whilst also discussing their potential limitations.
The physician as patient in palliative care: A retrospective case-note audit
Authors: McMichael Lachlan C , Zambrano Sofia C , Crawford Gregory B
Published: March 2016

Background:

Dying physicians may present unique challenges to palliative care teams. Studies of dying physicians are scarce, but those that exist suggest a potential absence of a coordinating clinician, prolongation of curative treatments, resistance to palliative care input and barriers to discussing psychosocial needs.

Aim:

The aim was to describe and examine the care provided to physician-patients referred to an Australian palliative care service, and to identify issues faced by the physician-patient and by the treating team.

Design and participants:

A retrospective case-note audit of the case notes of medical practitioners referred for palliative care and dying between January 2007 and April 2013 was conducted.

Results:

There was evidence of medically qualified friends or family members initiating referrals and directing treatment decisions. There was some evidence of increased consultant-led decision-making and bypassing of usual referral pathways and systems for providing after-hours advice and calling consultants directly. There also appeared to be some reluctance by junior doctors to make decisions, because of the patient’s desire for consultant-level advice only.

Conclusion:

This study adds to the growing body of literature that identifies the potential difficulties associated with caring for medical practitioners. By understanding some of the complexity of this particular doctor–patient relationship, clinicians can approach the management of physician-patients facing the end of their lives with a more sound understanding of their particular care needs.
Perspectives of people with mild intellectual disabilities on care relationships at the end of life: A group interview study
Authors: Bekkema Nienke , de Veer Anke JE , Hertogh Cees MPM , Francke Anneke L
Published: March 2016

Background:

Care relationships are crucial in tailoring the end-of-life care of a person with intellectual disabilities (ID) to their needs. Yet, almost all studies on end-of-life care for people with ID have been conducted among caregivers. The views of people with ID about care relationships at the end of life have not been a specific focus of research.

Aim:

To explore relevant dimensions of the care relationships in end-of-life care from the perspectives of people with mild ID in the Netherlands.

Design:

Group interviews were conducted using nominal group technique. Interviews were inductively analysed by two researchers.

Setting/participants:

Seven groups participated (33 people). Inclusion criteria were as follows: having mild ID, being able to decide about participation and give informed consent, and not receiving end-of-life care. All groups were interviewed twice.

Results:

Two dimensions of care relationships were found: (1) ‘Ascertain, record and honour wishes’ of the ill person. Adequately dealing with care wishes, ‘last wishes’ and funeral wishes was of central importance: ‘it’s about their life’. We found an emphasis on control that seemed to reflect the participants’ experience that respecting autonomy does not always happen. (2) ‘Being there’: Ill people need people who are there for him or her, practically, as well as emotionally, socially and spiritually. Participants placed specific emphasis on providing positive experiences.

Conclusion:

The views of people with mild ID highlight the high demands which end-of-life care imposes on relational qualities of caregivers. This study shows the added value and potential of involving people with ID in studies on end-of-life care.
Into the Purple Zone: Deconstructing the Politics/Administration Distinction
Authors: Alford John , Hartley Jean , Yates Sophie , Hughes Owen
Published: March 2016

We add new data to the long-standing debate about the interface between politics and administration, deploying theory and evidence indicating that it varies. It can be either a “purple zone” of interaction between the red of politics and the blue of administration, or a clear line. We use survey responses from 1,012 mostly senior public managers in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, along with semi-structured interviews with 42 of them, to examine the extent to which public managers perceive that they “cross” the line or go into a zone, and the ways in which they do so. Our inclusion of a zone as well as a line recasts how roles and relationships between politicians and administrators can be conceived. Moreover, it raises questions about how particular contingencies affect whether public managers perceive and work with a line or a zone.
Efficacy and patency of primary stenting for hepatic venous outflow obstruction after living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Jang Joo Yeon , Jeon Ung Bae , Park Jung Hwan , Kim Tae Un , Lee Jun Woo , Chu Chong Woo , Ryu Je Ho
Published: March 2016

Background

Hepatic venous outflow is important for graft survival in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). If hepatic venous outflow obstruction occurs, hepatic vein stenting is considered to restore the patency.

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate the efficacy and patency of primary hepatic vein stenting for hepatic venous outflow obstruction (HVOO) after LDLT.

Material and Methods

Percutaneous interventions, including hepatic vein stent placement with or without balloon angioplasty, were performed in 21 patients who had undergone LDLT and had HVOO confirmed through hepatic venography or manometry, including the patients who had a structural abnormality. Two stents each were inserted in four patients; therefore, the total number of treated anastomoses was 25. Technical success, patency rates, and pressure gradients between hepatic veins and the right atrium were evaluated in 19 patients each.

Results

Technical success was achieved in 25 of 26 vessels (96%). The mean interval between operation and stenting was 43 days. After the procedure, the follow-up period was a mean 530 days. The mean pressure gradient decreased from 8.5 mmHg to 2.1 mmHg after treatment ( P < 0.01). The patency rates of the 25 vessels were 80% at 1, 2, and 3 years after stent placement. However, middle hepatic vein stenting revealed a low patency rate (all were 36%). Three of seven stents (43%) in the middle hepatic vein occluded during follow-up.

Conclusion

Percutaneous primary hepatic vein stent replacement is an effective treatment for HVOO after LDLT.
Oxygen therapy for cluster headache. A mask comparison trial. A single-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study
Authors: Petersen Anja S , Barloese Mads CJ , Lund Nunu LT , Jensen Rigmor H
Published: March 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate possible differences in effect between three types of masks in the acute treatment of cluster headache (CH).

Patients and methods

Fifty-seven CH patients according to ICHD-II-criteria participated in a single-blinded, semi-randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover inpatient study, and 102 CH attacks were treated with 100% oxygen delivered by demand valve oxygen (DVO), O2ptimask or simple mask (15 liters/min) or placebo delivered by DVO for 15 minutes. Primary endpoint: Two-point decrease of pain on a five-point rating scale within 15 minutes.

Results

Only 10 CH patients had multiple attacks and reached the point of placebo. There were no significant differences between masks in the primary endpoints ( p = 0.412). After 15 minutes 48% had a two-point decrease using the DVO compared to 45% with placebo ( p = 0.867). After 30 minutes 68% were pain free or had pain relief using DVO and 45% by placebo ( p = 0.061). The DVO was preferred by 62% compared to 5% and 33% for simple mask ( p < 0.0001) and O2ptimask ( p = 0.061). In the first attack the DVO was significantly better at achieving pain relief at 15 minutes ( p = 0.018). Treatment with DVO or O2ptimask reduced the need for rescue medication compared to the simple mask (23%, 19%, 50%, respectively). No treatment-related adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

The primary endpoint with pain relief at 15 minutes was non-significant; however, a post hoc analysis of the first attack significantly favored DVO. Further, therapy by O2ptimask and DVO resulted in a decreased need for rescue medication. We recommend that CH patients be offered DVO or O2ptimask before oxygen therapy is abandoned.
Population-based approaches to genetics of migraine
Authors: Chasman Daniel I , Schürks Markus , Kurth Tobias
Published: March 2016

Background

While the most accurate diagnosis of migraine typically requires a clinical interview guided by strict diagnostic criteria, an alternative approach that ascertains migraine by questionnaire in population-based settings has been instrumental in the discovery of common genetic variants influencing migraine risk. This result may be surprising. Population-based approaches are often criticized for limited ability to distinguish migraine from other forms of primary headache. It is thus useful to revisit prevailing ideas about population-based ascertainment of migraine to evaluate the extent to which this approach has potential for additional insights into migraine genetics and therefore pathophysiology.

Overview

We review recent findings suggesting that the success of the population-based approach is derived from the possibility of collecting much larger samples than in the clinic-based setting even at the risk of introducing phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity. The findings are also consistent with new appreciations for the genetic basis of many other common, complex clinical characteristics. However, clinic-based ascertainment and other settings will remain more effective than population-based approaches for investigating certain, often very specific aspects of migraine genetics.

Conclusion

We argue that the detailed genetic architecture of migraine, various aspects of methodology, and the ultimate sample size achieved by population-based ascertainment will be critical determinants of the future success of this approach to genetic analysis of migraine and its comorbidities.
Gender Difference in Internet Use and Internet Problems among Quebec High School Students
Authors: Dufour Magali , Brunelle Natacha , Tremblay Joel , Leclerc Danielle , Cousineau Marie-Marthe , Khazaal Yasser , Légaré Andrée-Anne , Rousseau Michel , Berbiche Djamal
Published: March 2016

Objectives:

There are presently no data available concerning Internet addiction (IA) problems among adolescents in Canada and the province of Quebec. The goal of this study is thus to document and compare the influence of gender on Internet use and addiction.

Method:

The study data were collected from a larger research project on gambling among adolescents. Activities conducted online (applications used and time spent) as well as answers to the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) were collected from 3938 adolescents from grades 9 to 11. The two most often employed cut-off points for the IAT in the literature were documented: (40-69 and 70+) and (50+).

Results:

Boys spent significantly more time on the Internet than did girls. A greater proportion of the girls made intense use of social networks, whereas a greater proportion of the boys made intense use of massively multiplayer online role-playing games, online games, and adult sites. The proportion of adolescents with a potential IA problem varied according to the cut-off employed. When the cut-off was set at 70+, 1.3% of the adolescents were considered to have an IA, while 41.7% were seen to be at risk. At a 50+ cut-off, 18% of the adolescents were considered to have a problem. There was no significant difference between the genders concerning the proportion of adolescents considered to be at risk or presenting IA problems. Finally, analysis of the percentile ranks would seem to show that a cut-off of 50+ better describes the category of young people at risk.

Conclusions:

The results of this study make it possible to document Internet use and IA in a large number of Quebec adolescents.
The Age of Onset of Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Lijster Jasmijn M. de , Dierckx Bram , Utens Elisabeth M.W.J. , Verhulst Frank C. , Zieldorff Carola , Dieleman Gwen C. , Legerstee Jeroen S.
Published: March 2016

Objective:

The objective was to estimate the age of onset (AOO) for all anxiety disorders and for specific subtypes. Gender differences in the AOO of anxiety disorders were examined, as were the influence of study characteristics on reported AOOs.

Methods:

Seven electronic databases were searched up to October 2014, with keywords representing anxiety disorder subtypes, AOO, and study design. The inclusion criteria were studies using a general population sample that provided data on the AOO for all anxiety disorders, or specific anxiety disorders, according to DSM-III-R, DSM-IV, or ICD-10 criteria.

Results:

There were 1028 titles examined, which yielded 24 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Eight studies reported the AOO and gender. Meta-analysis found a mean AOO of all anxiety disorders of 21.3 years (95% CI 17.46 to 25.07). Separation anxiety disorder, specific phobia, and social phobia had their mean onset before the age of 15 years, whereas the AOO of agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder began, on average, between 21.1 and 34.9 years. Meta-analysis revealed no difference in the AOO between genders. A prospective study design and higher developmental level of the study country were associated with an earlier AOO.

Conclusions:

Results from this meta-analysis indicate that anxiety disorder subtypes differ in the mean AOO, with onsets ranging from early adolescence to young adulthood. These findings suggest that prevention strategies of anxiety disorders should be directed towards factors associated with the development of anxiety disorder subtypes in the age groups with the greatest vulnerability for developing those disorders.
Modeling transverse impact on UHMWPE soft ballistic sub-laminate
Authors: Haque Bazle Z (Gama) , Ali Molla A , Gillespie John W
Published: March 2016

High-performance ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) soft ballistic sub-laminates ([0/90] n, SBSL) are stacked to build a soft body armor pack (SBAP) that can defeat handgun projectiles. Transverse impact on single-layer [0/90] SBSL of different size is modeled with shell elements and is solved using LS-DYNA composite material model MAT54. The finite element (FE) model is validated using 1D and 2D theories for transverse impact. The validated FE models are then used to study the perforation behavior of a [0/90] SK76/PU SBSL under constant and variable velocity impact. Results show that the basal shape of the transverse deformation cone has a diamond shape; the cone wave speed along primary material direction agrees well with 2D membrane theory, there exists a minimum perforation velocity below which the SBSL will not perforate, the peak perforation force reduces with the size of the SBSL, and the work of perforation decreases with increasing speed. Detail perforation mechanics of [0/90] SK76/PU SBSL is presented for the first time.
State of the art in powder-mixed electric discharge machining: A review
Authors: Talla Gangadharudu , Gangopadhayay S , Biswas CK
Published: March 2016

Accomplishment of high machining rates along with good surface quality is a major concern in electric discharge machining process. Powder-mixed electric discharge machining in which suitable powder particles are impregnated in dielectric has gone forth as a potential solution to this problem. Nevertheless, challenges such as dielectric circulation, homogeneous blending of the powder particles in the dielectric, debris removal and quantity of the powder material required have to be addressed carefully before implementing this process on a large scale in the manufacturing industry. Extensive research in the field of electric discharge machining using powder-suspended dielectrics has started only in the recent years. In this article, a comprehensive review of the research going on in the field of powder-mixed electric discharge machining is presented. The emphasis is given on powder-mixed electric discharge machining mechanism, influence of powder characteristics and machining parameters on various responses. Some of the major application areas, variants of the basic powder-mixed electric discharge machining process and possibilities of further improvement are also discussed.
An integrated ant colony optimization algorithm to solve job allocating and tool scheduling problem
Authors: Zhang Xu , Wang Shilong , Yi Lili , Xue Hong , Yang Songsong , Xiong Xin
Published: March 2016

In this article, max–min ant colony optimization algorithm is proposed to determine how to allocate jobs and schedule tools with the objective of minimizing the makespan of processing plans in flexible manufacturing system. To expand the application range of max–min ant colony optimization algorithm, tool movement policy is selected as the running mode of flexible manufacturing system, which assumes that tools are shared among work centers and each operation is allowed to be machined by different kinds of tools. In the process of converting this scheduling problem into traveling salesman problem, disjunctive graph is modified to possess more than one path between each neighbor node. Besides providing practical methods of initializing pheromone, selecting node and calculating pheromone increment, max–min ant colony optimization algorithm employs the pheromone updating rule in max–min ant system to limit pheromone amount in a range, of which the upper and lower boundaries are updated after each iteration by formulations involving the current optimal makespan, the average number of optional tools and parameters. Finally, different sizes of processing plans are randomly generated, through which max–min ant colony optimization algorithm is proved effectively to tackle early stagnation and local convergence and thus obtains better solution than ant colony optimization algorithm and bidirectional convergence ant colony optimization algorithm.
Minimum bending radius of Al-Li alloy extrusions in stretch bending
Authors: Liu Tianjiao , Wang Yongjun , Wu Jianjun , Xia Xiaojiao , Wang Junbiao , Li Shanliang , Wang Shunhong , Wang Jian , Han Gan
Published: March 2016

In this investigation, the attention is focused on the minimum bending radii of 2196-T8511 and 2099-T83 Al-Li alloy extrusions. To predict the failure of Al-Li alloys, sheet and extrusion stretch bending tests are developed, carried out and simulated using finite element model. The theoretical minimum bending radius is introduced to derive a safe lower limit for the bending radius which can serve as a guideline for tool and product design. Stretch bending tests of Al-Li alloys are performed using the three-point bending test and displacement-controlled stretch bending test at room temperature. The finite element model incorporates three-dimensional solid elements and ductile damage modeling. The experimental results show that Al-Li alloy extrusions in stretch bending show three types of failures, occurring at the unbent region near the entrance of the jaws, at the region below the exit of the die and within the region in contact with the die, respectively. Comparison between predicted values and experimental results has been made, a consistent agreement being achieved, reflecting the reliability of the present model. The three types of failure mechanisms which compete with each other are tensile localization failure, die-corner failure and shear failure, respectively. Based on the analytical models, experiments and simulations, it appears that the three distinct failures need to be applied to predict the minimum bending radius and range of failures that can occur with 2196-T8511 and 2099-T83 Al-Li alloy extrusions in stretch bending.
Material selection in machine design: The change of cast iron for improving the high-quality Iin woodworking
Authors: Fragassa Cristiano
Published: March 2016

This paper analyzes the possibility to substitute the gray iron, traditionally used for the production of relevant parts in woodworking machines, with ductile iron or vermicular iron. A large experimental campaign to determine the mechanical beavior of ductile and vermicular irons respect to tensile, fatigue, and fracture loads was conducted and the microstructures were also analyzed. Results show that ductile or vermicular cast iron in parts and components of machine tools could provide additional stiffness and resistance for the high precision woodworking respect to Gray Iron. A balanced utilization of these alternative irons would permit to take a full advantage by each specific property (as strength, hardness, weight, etc.).
A polygons Boolean operations-based adaptive slicing with sliced data for additive manufacturing
Authors: Fu Guoqiang , Fu Jianzhong , Lin Zhiwei , Shen Hongyao , Jin Yu’an
Published: March 2016

In order to increase the efficiency of additive manufacturing, this paper proposes a novel adaptive slicing approach of sliced data with minimum thickness based on Boolean operations of polygons. It can greatly handle the balance between the build time and the surface precision of additive manufacturing. The proposed adaptive slicing is available for the single solid model, the support of additive manufacturing, and simultaneously manufactured multiple models. At first, the Boolean operations of polygons are used to gain the relationship of the adjacent layers to serve as the topological information. Second, two parameters are proposed to evaluate the precision of sliced surface: the ameliorative area ratio and variation of the cusp height. Ameliorative area ratio overcomes the drawbacks of original area deviation ration criteria and can work on the large and complex models. Variation of the cusp height makes the calculation of cusp height suitable for sliced data of model, and it is independent of the normal vector of surfaces. Third, the adaptive slicing is realized by removing unnecessary layers based on two parameters and the maximum allowable thickness. The thicknesses are times of the minimum thickness. Moreover, the adaptive slicing for support of additive manufacturing is developed through dividing the support into two parts according to its height and location. Slicing of multiple models is also proposed by choosing the maximum ameliorative area ratio and variation of the cusp height among all models in the same z level as the two parameters. Finally, the adaptive slicing for the three types is tested with some special models, and corresponding models are printed with FDM technology based on slicing results of the proposed approach. Results show that the proposed adaptive slicing approach is effective.