bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal and dielectric behavior of epoxy composites filled with ceramic micro particulates
Authors: Agrawal Alok , Satapathy Alok
Published: December 2013

A mathematical correlation for the effective thermal conductivity of particulate-filled polymer composites is developed using the law of minimal thermal resistance and equal law of specific equivalent thermal conductivity. To validate this correlation, two sets of epoxy-based composites with micro-sized aluminum nitride and Al2O3 fillers (0−25 vol%) are prepared by simple hand-lay-up technique. Thermal conductivities of these composites are measured using the Unitherm™ Model 2022 tester. These values are then compared with the values obtained from the proposed model and are found to be in fairly good agreement. Effects of fillers on other thermal properties (dimensional stability, glass transition temperature) and dielectric behavior of epoxy resin are also studied. Perkin-Elmer thermal mechanical analyzer and HIOKI-3532-50 Hi Tester Elsier Analyzer are used for this purpose. It is found that the measured properties of the composites are suitable for certain applications like electronic packaging and printed circuit boards.
Improving mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced composites based on epoxy resins containing industrial surface-modified silica nanoparticles: review and outlook
Authors: Sprenger Stephan
Published: December 2013

Surface-modified silica nanoparticles, 20 nm in diameter and with a very narrow particle size distribution, are available as concentrates in epoxy resins in industrial quantities since 10 years. They improve many different properties like strength, modulus, toughness and fatigue performance. Some of these improvements can be found for fiber-reinforced composites as well. In this review, the research results obtained with commercial silica nanoparticles published in the last decade are studied, results are compared with a focus on mechanical properties and the mechanisms responsible for the property improvements are discussed. Silica nanoparticles present only in the interface between fibers and resin matrix might be a very promising approach for future cost-sensitive applications.
Prediction of injection-moulded flax fibre reinforced polypropylene tensile properties through a micro-morphology analysis
Authors: Lafranche Eric , Oliveira Vânia M , Martins Carla I , Krawczak Patricia
Published: December 2013

Micromechanical models usually applied to predict the mechanical properties of short glass fibre reinforced composites were used to evaluate the Young’s modulus and tensile strength of flax fibre reinforced polypropylene. Due to lack of accuracy between the experimental results and the existing models, a new adjustment to the Kelly-Tyson model was proposed. The changes were based on the understanding of the microstructure obtained in polypropylene/flax fibre composites produced by injection moulding with different flax fibre content. The mechanical properties were interpreted based on real fibre loading, fibre orientation, fibre dimension distribution and morphology of the composites. Lack of fibre/matrix adhesion, strong fibre damage and changes on the crystallization behaviour of polypropylene in the presence of flax fibres affect the mechanical strength, stiffness and elongation of the composites. The Kelly-Tyson’s model used for tensile strength prediction was modified to take into consideration the fibre property variability due to the large distribution of fibre shape ratio induced by the process. Finally, matrix modulus has been adjusted to take into account the change of crystallinity with fibre content. A better description of the mechanical properties is obtained using the proposed approach, resulting indeed in an excellent approximation to the modulus of the composite.
Advanced accelerated testing methodology for long-term life prediction of CFRP laminates
Authors: Nakada Masayuki , Miyano Yasushi
Published: December 2013

An advanced accelerated testing methodology (ATM-2) for long-term life prediction of CFRP laminates exposed to actual loading with a general stress and temperature history is proposed based on the conventional accelerated testing methodology (ATM-1) established for the long-term life prediction of CFRP laminates exposed to stress and temperature. The most important condition for ATM-1 is that the time–temperature superposition principle held for the viscoelastic behavior of matrix resin holds also for the static, creep, and fatigue strengths of CFRP laminates. Furthermore, three conditions that form the basis of ATM-2 are introduced along with their scientific bases. The long-term fatigue strength of CFRP laminates under an actual loading is formulated based on the three conditions. The viscoelastic coefficients of matrix resin, which perform an important role for the time and temperature dependence of long-term life of CFRP laminates, are also formulated based on the time–temperature superposition principle. The applicability of ATM-2 is demonstrated by predicting the long-term fatigue strengths of four typical directions of unidirectional CFRP laminates.
Using stakeholders’ narratives to build an agent-based simulation of a political process
Authors: Schenk Tilman A
Published: December 2013

When reviewing the present state of the art in agent-based models of social processes, one may encounter three basic types of models: theory-based models start with a set of assumptions about human behavior and test those assumptions in various scenarios; data-driven models are based on mass data (e.g. census, large surveys) and usually include a large number of agents; a third group of models combines different data sources and may also include qualitative information, that is, text descriptions of human behavior. Pushing this notion further, the motivation of this paper is to demonstrate how an agent-based model of a political process can be designed only using the stakeholders’ own descriptions and observation results. The simulation reproduces the discussions among the stakeholders and their subsequent decisions and is able to react to changes in their general settings. The simulation outcomes are also produced in text format so that they are easily understandable to stakeholders and other users. The simulation can be used to explore different sets of rules for the decision processes and their results.
Modeling self-perception agents in an opinion dynamics propagation society
Authors: Wang Sheng-Wen , Huang Chung-Yuan , Sun Chuen-Tsai
Published: December 2013

In previous continuous opinion dynamics models based on bounded confidence assumptions, individuals can only influence each other’s opinions when those opinions are sufficiently close; subsequently, agents construct their self-opinions using opinions collected from other agents. All of these models lack the element of an agent’s inner self-attitude. In this paper we describe our proposal for a self-perception model in which agents are aware of differences between their attitudes and expressed opinions on specific issues. Our agents are based on a mix of self-perception and cognitive dissonance theory that allows them to self-adjust discomfort caused by inconsistencies between inner attitudes and expressed opinions. Results from a series of simulation experiments indicate that our model captures the gap between inner attitude and external opinion in explaining the private acceptance/public conformity phenomenon. We conclude with a demonstration of how our proposed model can be used in sociological studies of pluralistic ignorance.
Using a Trade Market Analysis Technique to Refine Measurements for Economic Impact Analysis of Special Events
Authors: Warnick Rodney B. , Bojanic David C. , Xu Feng
Published: December 2013

Special events can have a sizable economic significance (ES) and economic impact (EI) in host communities. This study’s purpose was to update the input measurement concepts in assessing the EI for a short-term special event. Specific EI measurements were examined as suggested by Crompton, Lee, and Shuster (2001) and Stynes (1997) that differentiated between types of attendees. A trade market analysis (TMA) technique was applied to refine the measures of locals and nonlocals and to reconsider locals who have visiting friends and relatives (VFR) in their group profiles. Further refinement of day-trip attendees and visitors expenditure impacts were identified and used to adjust the EI when applied to a sales multiplier. Self-administered online surveys were emailed to 2,678 group leaders from a registration and on-site intercept population with a response rate of 46%. Measurement improvements were found for local, nonlocal, casual, time-switcher, and VFR attendees in EI application.
Do Satisfied Tourists Really Intend to Come Back? Three Concerns with Empirical Studies of the Link between Satisfaction and Behavioral Intention
Authors: Dolnicar Sara , Coltman Tim , Sharma Rajeev
Published: December 2013

Explaining human behavior is a primary concern for tourism research and a substantial body of research concludes that highly satisfied tourists are more likely to return to a particular destination. In this article, we provide an analysis of this body of work, arriving at three concerns relating to the strength of association between satisfaction and behavioral intention: (1) the link between constructs is complex, resulting in the frequent omission of causal factors; (2) inconsistency with construct operationalization impedes cumulative knowledge development; and (3) explainable variance is impeded by between-study heterogeneity. We illustrate these problems by analyzing empirical guest survey data and conducting a meta-analysis of published papers in the three top tourism journals between 2002 and 2011. We offer four recommendations for future research investigating the link between satisfaction and behavioral intention.
Box jellyfish envenomation: case report of effective lemon and oil emulsion treatment
Authors: Hamann Carsten R , Hamann Dathan , Richardson Clare , Seeburger Jack
Published: December 2013

Box jellyfish are highly venomous and numerous possible treatments for envenomation have already been reported in the published literature. The hand of a 55-year-old scuba diver was stung in the Gulf of Guinea resulting in two crops of coalescing vesicles with intense pain and lymphadenopathy. Traditional therapies such as hot water, cold packs and acetic acid were ineffective. Symptoms were rapidly relieved after the application of a lemon-oil emulsion balm. Treatments for jellyfish envenomation generally aim to either denature the jellyfish venom or prevent the discharge of the venom. Lemon-oil emulsion therapy has not yet been reported in the published literature but may be an economical and novel treatment for box jellyfish envenomation.
Clinico-epidemiological profile of seven adults with spotted fever from a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Gopinath Kango Gopal , Chrispal Anugrah , Boorugu Harikishan , Chandy Sara , Prakash John Jude , Abraham Asha Mary , Abraham OC , Thomas Kurien
Published: December 2013

Spotted fever (SF), a tick-borne rickettsial infection, is being increasingly reported from mainly northern Indian states. A lack of awareness and confirmatory laboratory tests underestimate the incidence of this infection which, in India, is predominantly seen during the rainy season. Many patients diagnosed with viral exanthematous illnesses may be suffering from SF, which is treatable if detected early. There is very little data on SF in adults in southern India. We present seven patients with SF treated between January 2007 and January 2008 in a tertiary care hospital in South India. All presented during the rainy season, with rash (100%) and generalized oedema (71%) being the most common features. There was one death due to type I respiratory failure. Renal failure, shock, aseptic meningitis and hepatitis were other significant abnormalities detected in these patients. Clinicians need to be aware of SF and suspect it in appropriate patients.
Evaluating Client Selection and Selection Fidelity
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Huening Jessica , Shi Jing , Schumann Brooke E. , Sullivan Irene Rubinson , Epperson Matthew W.
Published: December 2013

The effectiveness of specialized interventions depends in part on the target population and whether those selected for admission to interventions (i.e., specialized programs) and recruited to participate in research evaluations are representative of the target population. This article describes the process by which clients were selected to participate in a specialized mental health caseload (SMHC). The study focuses on the referral and selection process at the program level and the factors influencing acceptance and rejection. Using a mixed methods approach, we found that selection was guided by a three-stage process: The first was a general education phase, followed by an informal pre-screening stage, and finally a formal screening stage. Once clients were referred, client selection was informed principally by the program’s formal criteria. Informal processes appeared consistent with the formal selection criteria. Further research is necessary to assess potential bias prior to the formal referral process.
Protectors or Predators? The Embedded Problem of Police Corruption and Deviance in Nigeria
Authors: Agbiboa Daniel Egiegba
Published: December 2013

The Nigeria Police Force is widely perceived by the public as the most corrupt and violent institution in Nigeria in a way that is not evidently insincere. In light of the generalization and banalization of police corruption and deviance, it is surprising that few works have addressed this problem that most directly affects the aggrieved Nigerian public. This article critically examines the embeddedness and ramifications of police corruption and deviance in Nigeria. The article is historically anchored and foregrounds colonial and military administrative policies that inculcated a strategy of corruption by coercion in the Nigeria Police Force.
Fisher v. University of Texas
Authors: Riccucci Norma M.
Published: December 2013

The eminent scholar John Rohr in one of his many treatises argued that as we progress through time, the U.S. Supreme Court becomes more socially adaptable in terms of its interpretation of race issues under the U.S. Constitution. He also pointed out that the courts should be working with policy makers responding to the demands of the day, to promote vital goals such as diversity in higher education. This article illustrates the evolution of affirmative action qua diversity over time, and shows that through the progression of time, the High Court’s decisions on diversity or affirmative action programs have become more enlightened, certainly reflecting the values of policy makers as well as societal norms. In 2013, the Court agreed to hear an appeal to Fifth Circuit’s ruling in Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin, which upheld the use of affirmative action in accordance with Grutter as well as Bakke. If the Court had overturned these decisions, it would have single-handedly destroyed decades of progress made around diversity in university settings, and concomitantly disdainfully rejected the values of the American people. Instead, the Court sent Fisher back to the lower court, instructing it to apply strict scrutiny to the University of Texas’ claim that its program was narrowly tailored, thereby leaving open the possibility that affirmative action, as framed by Grutter and Bakke, will not survive.
Parents’ Fathering Identity Standards and Later Father Involvement
Authors: Adamsons Kari , Pasley Kay
Published: December 2013

Based on propositions from identity theory, this study used a sample of 1,596 coresident couples from the Fragile Families and Child Well-Being Study to examine whether parents’ fathering role centrality standards and fathers’ status centrality at the time of their child’s birth were associated with mother and father reports of father involvement 1 and 3 years later. Mothers and fathers who rated fathering roles as more important reported greater father involvement at both Years 1 and 3; centrality of the father status was associated with father reports of involvement at both years, and mother-reported involvement at Year 3. Interactions between fathers’ and mothers’ role centrality standards, and between parents’ role centrality standards and father status centrality, were found for mother reports of involvement at Year 3. Implications for research, practice, and theory are discussed.
Marital Sanctity, Relationship Maintenance, and Marital Quality
Authors: Stafford Laura
Published: December 2013

It has been argued that individuals who consider their marriages as sacred are likely to put greater effort into protecting those marriages. As relationship maintenance behaviors have been defined as efforts enacted to maintain features such as marital satisfaction, it is possible that relational maintenance behaviors serve as a link between marital sanctity and marital satisfaction. A sample of 244 heterosexual married couples completed measures of marital sanctity, relationship maintenance, and marital quality. Analyses revealed that one’s own belief in the sanctity of one’s marriage was associated with one’s reported engagement in relational maintenance behaviors. These were linked to one’s partner’s marital satisfaction. Findings suggest that one’s perception of the sanctification of one’s marriage might be manifested in one’s engagement in relational maintenance behaviors and account, in part, for the association between one’s belief in the sanctity of one’s marriage and one’s spouse’s marital satisfaction.
Risk for Suicide and the Role of Family
Authors: Frey Laura M. , Cerel Julie
Published: December 2013

Limited research exists that examines the contribution of family factors to the development and treatment of suicide. Although suicidal behavior occurs within an individual, the context in which it occurs can add necessary insights for understanding and preventing suicide. In this article, the existing literature on the family’s psychosocial role in the development of suicidal behavior is reviewed. Additionally, a review of the limited research on the family’s role in treatment following a suicidal action is provided. Finally, several directions for future research and clinical work are discussed to enhance our understanding of the family’s role in preventing suicide.
Direct and Indirect Self-Presentation in First Conversations
Authors: Svennevig Jan
Published: December 2013

This article presents a conversation analysis of strategies used by interlocutors in first encounters to solicit and display personal information. It presents a standardized sequence used to elicit personal information, called the self-presentational sequence, consisting of a request for self-presentation, an answer (the self-presentation proper) and a response to the self-presentation. The moves of the sequence may be considered as functionally adapted to establishing an interpersonal relationship by displaying other-attentiveness, claiming common ground, and establishing a relation of cooperativeness. The second part of the article presents a more indirect mode of self-presentation, in which participants provide personal background information as occasioned by the topic under discussion. The article contributes to describing the conversational forms self-presentation takes in authentic conversations and to explaining the relational functions of such forms in light of theories of politeness and relationship management.
Ultrasonographic indications for conservative treatment in pregnancy-related uterine arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Lee Tae Young , Kim See Hyung , Lee Hee Jung , Kim Mi Jeong , Lee Sang Kwon , Kim Young Hwan , Cho Seung Hyun
Published: December 2013

Background

Uterine arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are known to spontaneously regress.

Purpose

To assess the predictive value of ultrasonography for patients requiring conservative treatment for pregnancy related to AVMs.

Material and Methods

Our prospective study included 75 patients (conservative management:therapeutic management = 45:30) with vaginal bleeding from pregnancy-related AVM. Clinical and ultrasonography examinations were reviewed, and the following information was gathered: complete blood count, AVM maximal diameter, AVM echogenicity, retained product of conception, number of blood vessels, and spectral Doppler (pulsatility index [PI], resistance index [RI], peak systolic velocity [PSV], time-averaged maximum velocity [TAMXV]). The Doppler criteria by Timmerman (mean PSV >70 cm/s: therapeutic management, mean PSV < 52 cm/s: conservative management) were used for the initial management selection. The association between experimental variables and outcomes was assessed to determine their usefulness for predicting conservative management.

Results

Features strongly associated with conservative management and their accuracy were PSV 89.6%, hemoglobin 84.7%, RI 83.1%, TAMXV 79.3%, and PI 78.6%. The overall accuracy for correct outcome classification was 64 (85.3%) of 75 patients. Most patients with conservative management had quicker improvement of symptoms and spontaneous regression at follow-up.

Conclusion

Ultrasonography can accurately predict selection of conservative management.
Intervening to Prevent Repeat Offending Among Moderate- to High-Risk Domestic Violence Offenders
Authors: Scott Katreena , Heslop Lisa , Kelly Tim , Wiggins Kate
Published: December 2013

Clear directions about best strategies to reduce recidivism among domestic violence offenders have remained elusive. The current study offers an initial evaluation of an RNR (Risk, Needs, and Responsivity)-focused second-responder program for men accused of assaulting their intimate partners and who were judged as being at moderate to high risk for re-offending. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare police outcomes for 40 men attending a second-responder intervention program to 40 men with equivalent levels of risk for re-offense who did not attend intervention (comparison group). Results showed that there were significant, substantial, and lasting differences across groups in all outcome domains. In terms of recidivism, rates of subsequent domestic-violence-related changes were more than double for men in the comparison group as compared with the intervention group in both 1-year (65.9% vs. 29.3%) and 2-year (41.5% vs. 12.2%) follow-up. Changes in the rates of arrest were consistent with reductions in men’s general involvement with police, with men in the intervention group receiving fewer charges for violent offenses, administrative offenses, and property offenses over the 2 years following intervention than men in the comparison group. Not surprisingly, these differences result in a much lower estimated amount of police time with intervention men than for comparison men. Results are discussed with reference to the possible impact of sharing information with men about their assessed risk for re-offending within a therapeutic justice context.
Increased susceptibility to cortical spreading depression in an animal model of medication-overuse headache
Authors: Green A Laine , Gu Pengfei , De Felice Milena , Dodick David , Ossipov Michael H , Porreca Frank
Published: December 2013

Objective

The objective of this article is to evaluate electrically evoked thresholds for cortical spreading depression (CSD) and stress-induced activation of trigeminal afferents in a rat model of medication-overuse headache (MOH).

Methods

Sumatriptan or saline was delivered subcutaneously by osmotic minipump for six days to Sprague-Dawley rats. Two weeks after pump removal, animals were anesthetized and recording/stimulating electrodes implanted. The animals were pretreated with vehicle or topiramate followed by graded electrical stimulation within the visual cortex. CSD events were identified by decreased EEG amplitude and DC potential shift. Additional unanesthetized sumatriptan or saline-pretreated rats were exposed to bright light environmental stress and periorbital and hindpaw withdrawal thresholds were measured. Following CSD stimulation or environmental stress, immunohistochemical staining for Fos in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) was performed.

Results

Sumatriptan pre-exposure significantly decreased electrical stimulation threshold to generate a CSD event. Topiramate normalized the decreased CSD threshold as well as stress-induced behavioral withdrawal thresholds in sumatriptan-treated rats compared to saline-treated animals. Moreover, CSD and environmental stress increased Fos expression in the TNC of sumatriptan-treated rats, and these effects were blocked by topiramate. Environmental stress did not elicit cutaneous allodynia or elevate TNC Fos expression in saline-treated rats.

Conclusions

A previous period of sumatriptan exposure produced long-lasting increased susceptibility to evoked CSD and environmental stress-induced activation of the TNC that was prevented by topiramate. Lowered CSD threshold, and enhanced consequences of CSD events (increased activation of TNC), may represent an underlying biological mechanism of MOH related to triptans.
Monthly variation of United States pediatric headache emergency department visits
Authors: Kedia Sita , Ginde Adit A , Grubenhoff Joseph A , Kempe Allison , Hershey Andrew D , Powers Scott W
Published: December 2013

Objective

The objective of this article is to determine the monthly variation of emergency department (ED) visits for pediatric headache. We hypothesized youth have increased headache-related ED visits in the months associated with school attendance.

Methods

Using a United States representative sample of ED visits in the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 1997 to 2009, we estimated number of visits associated with ICD-9 codes related to headache, migraine, status migrainosus, or tension-type headache in 5- to 18-year-olds. Age-stratified multivariate models are presented for month of visit (July as reference).

Results

There was a national estimate of 250,000 ED visits annually related to headache (2.1% of total visits) in 5- to 18-year-olds. In 5- to 11-year-olds, the adjusted rate of headache-related visits was lower in April (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.20, 0.88). In 12- to 18-year-olds, there were higher rates in January (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.16, 3.14) and September (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.06, 2.55).

Conclusions

In adolescents we found higher ED utilization in January and September, the same months associated with school return from vacation for a majority of children nationally. No significant reduction in the summer suggests that school itself is not the issue, but rather changes in daily lifestyle and transitions.
The Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Ultrasonography in Soccer Players With Acute Hamstring Injuries
Authors: Petersen Jesper , Thorborg Kristian , Nielsen Michael Bachmann , Skjødt Thomas , Bolvig Lars , Bang Niels , Hölmich Per
Published: December 2013

Background:

An injury to the hamstring muscle complex is the most common injury in soccer. Ultrasound of acute hamstring injuries is often used as a clinical tool for diagnosing hamstring injuries and guiding players in when they can return to play.

Purpose:

To (1) investigate the characteristic sonographic findings of acute hamstring injuries in soccer players, (2) compare the mean injury severity (time to return to play) in injured players with and without sonographically verified abnormalities, and (3) correlate the length of the injured area and absence from soccer play (time to return to play) to investigate if ultrasonography can be used as a prognostic indicator of time to return to play.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Players from 50 teams participating in 1 of the top 5 Danish soccer divisions were followed in the period from January to December 2008. Of 67 players with acute hamstring injuries, 51 underwent ultrasonographic examination of the injured thigh and were included in this study.

Results:

Ultrasonographic examinations were performed 1 to 10 days after injury (mean, 5.2 ± 3.0 days), and sonographic findings were present in 31 of 51 cases (61%). Two thirds of the injuries were to the biceps femoris muscle and one third to the semitendinosus muscle. No total ruptures were documented. The 51 acute hamstring injuries resulted in absence from soccer of a mean 25.4 ± 15.7 days per injury, with no significant difference between players with and without sonographically verified abnormalities ( P = .41). No correlation existed between the length of the injured area and injury severity ( r = 0.19, P = .29).

Conclusion:

The biceps femoris is the most commonly injured hamstring muscle detected by ultrasound, and more than half of the injuries are intramuscular. Because neither the presence of sonographic findings nor the size of the findings was correlated with time to return to play in injured soccer players, the prognosis of hamstring injuries should not be guided by these findings alone.
The PCL Index Is Correlated With the Control of Rotational Kinematics That Is Achieved After Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Zampeli Franceska , Ntoulia Aikaterini , Giotis Dimitrios , Stavros Ristanis , Mitsionis Grigorios , Pappas Evangelos , Georgoulis Anastasios D.
Published: December 2013

Background:

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) index quantifies the curvature of the PCL seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that is caused by a change in tibiofemoral alignment in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)–deficient knee. It has been proposed that the PCL index may be useful in assessing the success of ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to test if the PCL index is predictive of in vivo rotational kinematics and joint laxity measures in knees of patients after single-bundle ACLR. The hypothesis was that the PCL index is predictive of rotational knee kinematics and objective laxity scores.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

At a mean of 18.1 months postoperatively, the PCL index was defined on MRI in 16 patients prospectively followed up after anatomic single-bundle ACLR and in 16 matched controls. The patients were evaluated with 3-dimensional motion analysis during (1) descending and pivoting as well as (2) landing and pivoting tasks. The side-to-side difference in tibial rotation range of motion between the reconstructed knee and the contralateral intact knee was calculated. The side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation was measured with a KT-1000 arthrometer. Linear regression models were used with the PCL index as a predictor of the side-to-side difference in tibial rotation for each task and the side-to-side difference in anterior tibial translation.

Results:

The PCL index of the reconstructed knees was significantly lower compared with that of the control knees ( P < .001). The index was predictive of the side-to-side difference in tibial rotation during both tasks ( R2 = 0.472 and 0.477, P = .003), with a lower index being indicative of increased rotational laxity. It was not predictive of anterior tibial translation (at 134 N: R2 = 0.13, P = .17; at maximum force: R2 = 0.009, P = .726).

Conclusion:

The PCL index after anatomic single-bundle ACLR using a bone–patellar tendon–bone graft is predictive of rotational kinematics during in vivo dynamic pivoting activities. The results show that the PCL index is correlated with the postoperative ability to control rotational kinematics of the knee joint.

Clinical Relevance:

This study provides evidence regarding the interplay between restoration of the native ACL’s anatomy and the PCL’s appearance and suggests that the effective restoration of tibiofemoral alignment after ACLR that is reflected in the PCL index translates into better functional outcomes as measured by tibial rotation during pivoting activities.
Impact of 6-Month Aerobic Exercise on Alzheimer’s Symptoms
Authors: Yu Fang , Thomas William , Nelson Nathaniel W. , Bronas Ulf G. , Dysken Maurice , Wyman Jean F.
Published: December 2013

Little is known about how aerobic exercise affects Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The purpose of this pilot study was to test the impact of 6-month cycling on AD symptoms in community-dwelling older adults with mild-to-moderate AD, using a single-group, repeated-measures design ( n = 26). AD symptoms were measured with the AD Assessment Scale–Cognitive (ADAS-Cog), Disability in AD (DAD), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory–Caregiver (NPI-Q) scales at baseline, 3 and 6 months. Data were analyzed using mixed linear models. The ADAS-Cog, DAD, and NPI-Q severity scores remained unchanged over the 6-month period, while caregiver distress decreased 40% (p < .05). We conclude that aerobic exercise may reduce AD symptoms and appears effective in decreasing caregiver distress. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the effects of aerobic exercise in AD.
Assessing the Environmental Merits of Conservation Subdivision Design
Authors: Göçmen Z. Aslıgül
Published: December 2013

Conservation subdivision design has been posited to have several ecological benefits; however, the degree to which conservation subdivisions have achieved these benefits has received little empirical evidence. With the use of spatial and statistical analysis, this study investigates land preservation characteristics in fifty-four Waukesha County, Wisconsin, conservation subdivisions. Additional comparative analysis is performed with twenty-six paired conventional subdivisions. The study finds that while conservation subdivisions protected around 2,500 acres of land and helped create an interconnected network of open spaces, they also created large impervious surfaces and fragmented wildlife habitats and other natural resources. Implications for environmental sustainability are discussed.
Neonatal and Pediatric Peripheral Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Cies Jeffrey J. , Moore Wayne S.
Published: December 2013

Background: To reach nutrition goals, peripheral parenteral nutrition (PPN) often exceeds an osmolarity (Osm) of 900 mOsm/L. Evidence suggesting PPNs with Osm > 900 mOsm/L are safe in adults. However, some pediatric data suggest the PPN Osm limit should be 500‐700 mOsm/L, yet A.S.P.E.N. recommends a limit of 900 mOsm/L. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study from January 1, 2005, to December 31, 2007, to determine if PPNs with an Osm > 900 mOsm/L result in an increased rate of line‐related events in neonatal and pediatric patients. Patients from birth to 21 years were included and grouped based on the final Osm of the PPN. The exposed group included patients with Osm > 900 mOsm/L and the nonexposed (NE) group Osm ≤ 900 mOsm/L. Results: Baseline demographic data were similar. The mean Osm for neonatal PPNs was 856 and 944 mOsm/L for pediatric PPNs. For neonatal PPNs, the incidence of line‐related events was 50 per 100 patient days and 52 per 100 patient days for PPNs ≤ 900 and > 900 mOsm/L (RR = 1.02, 95% CI 0.88‐1.18). For pediatric PPNs, the incidence of line‐related events was 49.5 per 100 patient days and 42.6 per 100 patient days for PPNs ≤ 900 and > 900 mOsm/L (RR = 0.94, 95% CI 0.77‐1.15). Conclusion: The final Osm of PPN did not effect the rate of line‐related events. Prospective studies assessing the development of line‐related events, as a result of PPN Osm, are warranted to confirm the data presented in this analysis.
Prolonged Preoperative Fasting in Elective Surgical Patients
Authors: Pimenta Gunther Peres , de Aguilar‐Nascimento José Eduardo
Published: December 2013

Despite the abundance of evidence to the contrary, 6–8 hours of total preoperative fasting is still considered essential by many surgeons and anesthesiologists, based on the strength of old concepts. Patients frequently end up fasting for 12 hours or more because of delays and changes in operating room schedules. The metabolic response to long fasting leads to intensification of the organic response occurring after trauma, which is mainly manifested as increased insulin resistance, an acute‐phase response, and loss of lean body mass. In fact, there has not been any evidence indicating that a shorter fast of 2–3 hours, which includes oral clear or carbohydrate (CHO)–rich (12.5% carbohydrates, 50 kcal/100 mL) fluids, results in an increased risk of aspiration, regurgitation, or related morbidity compared with the standard policy of “nil by mouth after midnight.” In addition, preoperative treatment with CHO‐rich fluids may reduce postoperative discomfort and, for patients undergoing major abdominal surgery, may decrease the duration of postoperative hospitalization. New formulas for preoperative oral fluids containing amino acid or protein such as glutamine or whey protein are also potential candidates for early preoperative treatment and merit further study.
Plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic polymer-modified liposomes: A promising carrier for mitoxantrone
Authors: Ghanbarzadeh Saeed , Arami Sanam , Pourmoazzen Zhaleh , Ghasemian-Yadegari Javad , Khorrami Arash
Published: December 2013

pH-sensitive liposomes are designed to undergo acid-triggered destabilization. In the present study, we prepared polymer-modified, plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic mitoxantrone liposomes to increase efficacy and selectivity on cancer cell lines. Conventional liposomes were prepared using cholesterol and dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine. Dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine and a cholesteryl derivative, poly(monomethylitaconate)- co-poly( N, N-dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PMMI- co-PDMAEMA), were used for the preparation of pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes. Using polyethylene glycol (PEG)-poly(monomethylitaconate)-CholC6 (PEG-PMMI-CholC6) copolymers instead of cholesterol introduced pH-sensitive and plasma stability properties simultaneously in prepared liposomes. All formulations were prepared by thin film hydration method and subsequently, pH-sensitivity and stability in human serum were evaluated. The ability of pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes to enhance the mitoxantrone cytotoxicity and selectivity in cancerous cell lines was assessed in vitro compared to normal cell line using human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), human prostate cancer cell line (PC-3), and human umbilical vein endothelial cells line. Results revealed that both PMMI- co-PDMAEMA and PEG-PMMI-CholC6-based formulations showed pH-sensitive property and were found to rapidly release mitoxantrone under mildly acidic conditions. Nevertheless, only the PEG-PMMI-CholC6-based liposomes preserved pH-sensitivity after incubation in plasma. Mitoxantrone loaded-pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes exhibited a higher cytotoxicity than the control conventional liposomes on MCF-7 and PC-3 cell lines. On the contrary, both pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes showed lower cytotoxic effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cell line. Plasma stable, pH-sensitive fusogenic liposomes are promising carriers for enhancing the efficiency and selectivity, besides reduction of the side effects of anticancer agents.
Dress, Type 1 Diabetes, and Adolescent Development
Authors: Evenson Sandra Lee
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this white paper is to call for research on the intersection of dress, type 1 diabetes (T1D), and adolescent development. Management of T1D requires frequent blood glucose monitoring, and the individual is dependent on regular delivery of insulin through injections or an insulin pump. Much of the literature on T1D focuses on fostering healthy habits. The role of dress and identity is rarely addressed. The example of an adolescent teen with T1D is employed to demonstrate how equipment for blood glucose control fulfills the definition of dress. A review of literature reveals a body of knowledge on dress and identity, T1D and adolescent development, and T1D and identity. Interdisciplinary research on the intersection of these three factors is needed. At a point in life when most teens want to look unique but not too different from friends, managing the gear that maintains health and communicates diabetic identity must be better understood to support the patient.
Schoolyard stories: Processes of gender identity in a ‘children’s place’
Authors: Rönnlund Maria
Published: December 2013

Drawing on data from a Swedish primary school, this article explores how the schoolyard and places within the schoolyard are discursively used in processing gender identity. The analysis of children’s narratives in relation to four identified key places indicated diverse and parallel ways of processing gender identity, and that spatial characteristics formed different conditions for processing gender identity. The analysis stresses the importance of understanding gender identity as spatial and diverse and children as active agents in processing this identity. Following the analysis outlined in the article, it is argued that a spatially diverse and multi-characteristic schoolyard is likely to meet various and parallel ways of processing gender identity to a greater extent than a schoolyard with low spatial variety. In general, representations of an ‘active’, ‘playing with everybody’, ‘rule-abiding’, and ‘gendered’ school child were not challenged to any great extent. This result indicates the power of institutional and societal forming and framing in contemporary outdoor school environments.
Optimal resource management algorithm for unmanned aerial vehicle missions in hostile territories
Authors: Yoo Dong-Wan , Lee Chang-Hun , Tahk Min-Jea , Choi Han-Lim
Published: December 2013

In this paper, an optimal distribution algorithm for a large group of heterogeneous unmanned aerial vehicles is developed. A typical unmanned aerial vehicle cooperative control in a battlefield can be categorized as a hierarchical system that is usually composed of several levels, and the decision making step, or the resource management step, is the main focus of this paper. In the resource management step, the factors to be decided are the proper number and types of unmanned aerial vehicles that will be committed to each operational area to increase the overall performance of the entire group and achieve a successful mission accomplishment. A task assignment algorithm, which is the next level in the cooperative control hierarchy, may begin with a higher chance of success when the number and types of resources are given correctly by the resource management step. This research suggests an optimal resource management algorithm for operations in various combat or civilian missions by solving an integer linear programming problem. A Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD) mission is considered as the main example in this paper. Finally, the algorithm is supported with number of verifications and numerical simulations in various SEAD mission cases.
Simulation of shock wave propagation in a duct with a side branch
Authors: Igra D , Igra O
Published: December 2013

Experimental studies conducted during the 70s and 80s of the previous century are numerically simulated. We examine a horizontal duct with a vertical branch having a circular cross section whose diameter is 5 cm. These experiments were conducted by the late Dr Heilig in the Ernst-Mach-Institute (private communication). In both segments of the branched duct pressure transducers were installed. They were used for recording the pressure histories and for deducing the traveling shock wave speed. These results were compared with the present numerical simulation. The numerical simulations were conducted using the commercial code Fluent with the density-based AUSM solver. The solver is second order in both space and time. It is apparent from the results obtained that good agreement exists between the recorded pressure histories and their simulations. Based on the good agreement between recorded and simulated pressures a numerical study was conducted by comparison between two similar branched ducts, one having a circular cross section while the other has a rectangular cross section. Also, the effect that changes in the branched segment orientation have on the resulting flow field were investigated.
Researching entrepreneurship in low-income settlements: the strengths and challenges of participatory methods
Authors: Gough Katherine V , Langevang Thilde , Namatovu Rebecca
Published: December 2013

Despite an increased focus on entrepreneurship as a means of promoting development, there has been limited discussion of the conceptual and methodological issues related to researching entrepreneurship in low-income countries. Drawing on experiences from Uganda, this paper presents a study of entrepreneurship conducted in a low-income settlement, which combined participatory quantitative and qualitative approaches, highlighting the strengths and challenges of using participatory methods. The paper demonstrates how drawing on a range of participatory methods can contribute to creating more engaging research relationships and generate a deeper and more contextualized understanding of entrepreneurship.
Use of cerebrospinal fluid enzyme immunoassay for diagnosis of neurosyphilis
Authors: Chan Yung , Yeung Kwok-Hung , Ho Hing-Fung , Ho King-Man , Tin-Keung Lam Edman , Leung Wai-Lin , Kam Kai-Man
Published: December 2013

Summary

Neurosyphilis is a difficult clinical stage of syphilis as there is no ideal method for diagnosis and workup requires lumbar puncture which may sometimes provide ambiguous results especially in HIV co-infected patients. Enzyme immunoassay is a widely used screening test for syphilis in serum, but its test performance was not well studied in cerebrospinal fluid. To examine the diagnostic performance of cerebrospinal fluid-enzyme immunoassay (CSF-EIA) in neurosyphilis, we conducted a prospective study for two years. All consecutive patients admitted for workup of neurosyphilis under the Social Hygiene Service, in Hong Kong, were included. Laboratory tests on CSF included several serological tests, CSF cell count, and protein. Forty-five patients were prospectively recruited, of which 29 people were living with HIV / AIDS. Using diagnostic case definition standard stipulated in the IUSTI 2008 guidelines, 17 patients satisfied the diagnosis of neurosyphilis. The CSF-EIA test provided 100% in both sensitivity and negative predictive value; its specificity was 46.4% (13/28, 95% CI 31.8–61%). Specificity improved to 80.8% (95% CI: 68.4–93.2%) with optical density cut-off value at 1.4 for cases with CSF red cell counts <600/mm3. This is the first study on use of CSF-EIA in neurosyphilis. CSF-EIA showed high sensitivity and high negative predictive value in the study population and the presence of CSF red cells < 600/mm3 might not affect its accuracy.
Converting energy from fusion into useful forms
Authors: Kovari M , Harrington C , Jenkins I , Kiely C
Published: December 2013

If fusion power reactors are to be feasible, it will still be necessary to convert the energy of the nuclear reaction into usable form. The heat produced will be removed from the reactor core by a primary coolant, which might be water, helium, molten lithium-lead, molten lithium-containing salt, or CO2. The heat could then be transferred to a conventional Rankine cycle or Brayton (gas turbine) cycle. Alternatively, it could be used for thermochemical processes such as producing hydrogen or other transport fuels. Fusion presents new problems because of the high energy neutrons released. These affect the selection of materials and the operating temperature, ultimately determining the choice of coolant and working cycle. The limited temperature ranges allowed by present day irradiated structural materials, combined with the large internal power demand of the plant, will limit the overall thermal efficiency. The operating conditions of the fusion power source, the materials, coolant, and energy conversion system will all need to be closely integrated.