bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Acoustics of Auditoria
Authors: Kuttruff H.
Published: January 2017

The paper presents a short introduction into auditorium acoustics and reports on a few new developments in this field, which are believed to be of great benefit both for the acoustical design of auditoria and for research in practical room acoustics.

The first part describes in a rather elementary way the basic facts of sound propagation in enclosures, including the effects of reflections and the role of reverberation. Furthermore, some of the numerous objective parameters are discussed which have been introduced in order to characterize particular aspects of sound fields. In the second part, recently developed methods of sound field simulation are described by which such parameters can be predicted. Methods of “auralization” are briefly discussed by which aural impressions from non-existing halls can be created on the basis of digital sound field simulation.
Sound Propagation in City Streets
Authors: Oldham D.J. , Radwan M.M.
Published: January 2017

A computer model for predicting the propagation of sound down city streets is described. The predictions of this model were compared with measurements on a scale model and agreement between the two sets of data were shown to be good for a range of street configurations. A statistical analysis was carried out of the street propagation characteristics and a systematic relationship observed between street width and the decrease in noise level with logarithmic distance from the source. It was observed that for the more realistic street configurations the regression coefficients were very similar and hence it was possible to devise a simple predictive model of street propagation characteristics.
Computer Prediction of Insertion Loss Due to a Single Barrier in a Non-Diffuse Empty Enclosed Space
Authors: Dance S.M. , Roberts J.P. , Shield B.M.
Published: January 2017

This paper describes the development of an efficient barrier model for the prediction of sound distribution in non-diffuse empty enclosed spaces. Diffraction is modelled using an extended version of the Ondet and Barbry computer model, RAYCUB, which is a proven model used to predict sound distribution in empty and fitted non-diffuse enclosed spaces. As RAYCUB is based on geometric acoustics, it is not possible to directly model diffraction around a barrier.

Diffraction around barriers is known to cause only localised, frequency dependent effects on sound distribution in acoustically complex environments such as factories. It was intended that a barrier model should impose a minimum of additional computation time on the factory noise prediction program. Three methods of approximating barriers were developed, all based upon a simplified implementation of the geometric theory of diffraction.

The barrier models were tested in two configurations of an empty test space. The model REDIR gave more accurate results than the original RAYCUB model, especially at lower frequencies.
A Procedure for Quantifying the Benefit and Cost Effectiveness of Noise Control Methods
Authors: Moorhouse A.T.
Published: January 2017

The benefit to an individual worker of a noise control measure is assessed by comparing their personal daily noise exposure before and after modifications. However, in complicated situations, such as factories, several workers' exposure may be reduced by the same noise control measure to differing degrees, and the overall improvement cannot be quantified so easily. In the paper a procedure is proposed in which the benefit of a noise control measure to all workers is given as a single figure rating. Proper before and after comparison of the overall improvement is then possible. This rating can also be used to quantify the cost effectiveness of various options. An example calculation is given.
Noise Transmission Through Profiled Metal Cladding Part III: Double-Skin SRI Prediction
Authors: Lam Y.W.
Published: January 2017

This paper extends previous studies on the sound transmission through single-skin profiled metal cladding systems to cover realistic double-skin cladding constructions. A method for predicting the sound reduction of such double-skin cladding systems is developed which takes proper account of the orthotropic nature of the cladding sheets, the sound bridging through fixing supports, and the transmission loss through the in-fill insulation. The method is verified against sound reduction measurements made on a variety of commercial cladding products which cover a good range of basic double-skin cladding construction types. Good agreement between prediction and measurement is found.
Reconstituted Versus Virgin Open Cell Foams in Floating Floors
Authors: Hall Robin , Mackenzie Robin K
Published: January 2017

Sound reducing flooring systems using flexible polymer foams as a decoupling resilient layer are increasingly being used in both new build and refurbishment. Such foams have been investigated and results suggest that reconstituted polyether foam from waste products may offer some advantages over the low density open cell l.d.o.c.) foams currently used in some systems. It has been shown that reconstituted open cell (o.c.) foams have an almost linear compressive stress-strain relationship up to about 40% strain without the marked yield point observed with virgin o.c. foams. Stress strain characteristics for reconstituted o.c. and virgin l.d.o.c. foams compared in this study indicate that, for stresses below the yield point for the virgin foam, greater strain is observed in reconstituted foam. When tested according to BSEN 29052-1, systems comprising reconstituted foam exhibited lower natural frequencies than those with the lower density virgin foam.
The Development of Computer Models for the Prediction of Factory Noise
Authors: Dance S.M.
Published: January 2017

The development of factory noise prediction models over the past thirty years has parallelled the development of computer technology. There are currently two main approaches to this problem both of which have been extensively investigated, they are the image-source method and the ray-tracing technique. Presented are brief details of the background to the specific problems of factory noise prediction together with the various approaches used to solve the problem. An outline of how the two types of mathematical models work, together with details of their representational development is presented. A comparison of the current potential of each type of model, enabling an insight into when and where each type of model may be effectively used, is given.

Three independent studies comparing various prediction models were considered. All three reviews drew the conclusion that the Ondet and Barbry, and the Lindqvist models were the most accurate ray-tracing and image-source models, respectively. Finally, a review of barrier prediction models is presented.
Numerical Analysis of the Acoustical Quality of a Multi-Purpose Hall
Authors: Meng X.W. , Borger G. De , Overmeire M. Van
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the acoustical features are described of a multi-purpose auditorium of the Free University of Brussels which were investigated both with field measurements and computer simulation. The convergence of the algorithm of the simulation package RAYNOISE was investigated as a function of the influence on the calculated results of the choice of the number of rays and the reflection order. By comparing the numerical and experimental values of the sound pressure level and early decay time, it is demonstrated that sufficiently accurate acoustical models can be developed. Based on these models, acoustical quantities such as the early energy fraction, sound pressure level, early decay time and early lateral energy fraction were calculated and employed to evaluate the acoustical quality of this multi-purpose hall.
Practical Aspects of Investingating Complaints from Vibration in Buildings
Authors: Scannell Ken
Published: January 2017

Increasing environmental awareness has resulted in a large increase in the number of complaints about noise and vibration. Although many guidelines exist for noise and many excellent texts are available for vibration theory, few documents covering the practical aspects of investigating environmental vibration are readily accessible. This paper seeks to redress the balance by discussing the investigation of both the fear of building damage from vibration and the effects of whole body vibration within buildings.
Impact Isolation of Floors Revisited
Authors: Fuchs Guillermo L
Published: January 2017

Impacts on floors of multi-storey buildings, especially footsteps, are a well known source of annoyance to downstairs neighbours. Structural flanking also can add to the problem. A problem recognised in the measurement and rating of impact noise is that the International Standards Organisation (ISO) recommended source, the tapping machine, is an unrealistically loud airborne source and is an almost continuous force when compared with footsteps. In addition, footsteps contain low frequency energy, not generated by the standard source, which can excite floor resonances. A prototype source has been built and tested which simplifies measurement. It requires less skill to construct and readings can be made in dBA with a simplified rating scheme.
Impulse Response Analysis: An Alternative Method of Measuring Sound Insulation
Authors: Lyons R. , Gibbs B.M.
Published: January 2017

This paper investigates the use of Impulse Response Analysis methods for measuring sound insulation, in particular for elements which provide low sound insulation, such as thin panels, barriers and open screens, where standard methods are inappropriate. A practical explanation of Impulse Response Analysis and its application is given, indicating, through studies on single panels as partitions and as screens, that such elements are amenable to this method of measurement.

Explanation of time history components and problems of signal capture are provided together with validation of the results by comparison with classical theory and, for screens, prediction taken from optical diffraction theory. Generally, agreement with theory is good and it is shown that the normal incidence impulse response data can be used with known empirical expressions to obtain the diffuse field transmission loss, so providing an indication of the expected performance in test laboratories and the field.
Sound Insulation of Open Screens: Measurement by Impulse Response Analysis
Authors: Lyons R. , Gibbs B.M.
Published: January 2017

In a companion paper. Impulse Response Analysis methods were developed as a practical method of measuring the sound insulation of panels, both as partitions and as solid screens and a method for comparing the results with the standard method of measurement for transmission loss, ISO 140, was demonstrated. In this paper studies are presented on the application of the method to more complex open forms of screen. A prediction model has been used for the simpler form of screen, which shows good agreement with measurements. For the more complicated screens, which provide greater sound insulation, the results are compared with standard ISO 140 measurements.
Variation of the Reverberation Time of Places of Public Assembly with Audience Size
Authors: Arau Higini
Published: January 2017

This paper addresses an issue relevant in the first stage of design, namely, the mathematical relationship between the volume of a hall, the size of the audience and the reverberation time required to conform with the hall's acoustical needs. The practical formulae derived from the theory, which is based on the earlier findings of Beranek and Kosten, are very useful for the prediction of the mid frequency reverberation time when the volume and the audience size are known. In addition, these practical formulae may be used in the early design phase to find the optimum hall volume given the audience size and the reverberation time required to conform with the hall's acoustic needs. If the hall under study is not a concert hall but an opera hall, it is necessary to adjust the hall's volume for the absorptive capacity of the audience seated in boxes.
Prediction of Sound Level in Rooms and Experimental Validation
Authors: de Souza Mauricy Cesar R. , Gerges Samir N.Y.
Published: January 2017

Traditional Sabine equations still are used for factories or offices where diffuse sound fields rarely occur and prediction can be inaccurate. More recently, methods based on geometric acoustics have been developed which require large computing time and which demand better defined input data. A problem, often encountered, is how to include input data which is appropriate, accurate and relatively easy to obtain. Three acoustic models of a furnished room were created: a diffuse field, an image source and a ray tracing model. The initial values of absorption coefficient and sound power level were obtained by standard measurements and the sound propagation SP was predicted and compared with measurement for each model. Then, the models were calibrated by altering the input parameters in order to minimise the difference between predicted and measured values. Sound pressure level due to two sources was also predicted and compared with measurement.

For the room studied, the precision of the predictions, after calibration, is similar for the three models considered, with an average difference between simulated and measured values of less than 2 dB. Without the calibration procedure, the ray-tracing model gave the most precise first estimate. The diffuse and image source models needed significant modification of the input data to obtain a similar precision. The sound field in the room chosen for this study was nearly diffuse and simulation, based on geometric acoustics, did not offer clear advantages. However, this will not be the case for rooms with more complicated geometrical and acoustic characteristics such as in factories and offices. In addition, the image source model will not be appropriate for internal fittings which are much more complex than in the present study and an appropriate estimate of the scattering cross-section is problematical. In the ray tracing model, this problem is circumvented by incorporating the fittings as part of the geometry of the room.
Acoustical Planning of a Building with Both Dwellings and a Theatre for Rock Musicals
Authors: Åkerlöf Leif
Published: January 2017

In 1997 the construction of a unique project in Stockholm was completed. An old electric power station was converted into a building containing both flats of very high acoustic class and a theatre for rock musicals. In order to achieve high acoustical standards the whole building was cut with a concrete saw from the roof to the cellar and a 20 mm gap was established. Rock musicals with sound levels of 120 dB(A) cannot be heard in the flats in the same building.
The Influence of Concrete Elastic Characteristics on the Impact Noise Insulation of Concrete Floors
Authors: Patrício Jorge , Silva P. Martins da , Piedade A. Canha da
Published: January 2017

The noise insulation characterisation of a bare floor for structure-borne sound is usually based on specific tests made in accordance with the established international standard EN ISO 20140 and the structure-borne noise insulation index calculated according to standard EN ISO 20717. For bare concrete floors of the same type, which one might suppose would have identical acoustical performance, different impact sound insulation frequency spectra may be obtained if the concrete at the zone where the impact hammer strikes is of different type. This situation is particularly the case for bare floors which have levelling layers of floor screeds.

This work presents an analytical study of the influence of the elastic characteristics of the concrete used in the area of the bare floor where the hammer of the standard tapping machine strikes (whether it be the structural concrete of the slab or a light concrete screed applied as a levelling layer), on the impact noise insulation spectra, and on the corresponding value of the structure-borne sound insulation index.

The study firstly involved theoretically modelling the applied impulsive force spectrum of the hammer impact. Secondly, the modelled force spectrum was compared with the results of impact characteristics obtained using several shock tests on defined specimens, for which the effective impact force is determined. Finally, using these resulting force spectra, some simulations on a standard floor were performed to determine the changes in the response spectra, and the corresponding insulation index for structure-borne sound. Some additional considerations and conclusions are also presented.
The Prediction of Airflow Generated Noise in Ventilation Systems
Authors: Mak C.M. , Waddington D.C. , Oldham D.J.
Published: January 2017

At long distances from the primary noise source (the fan) of a ventilation system, airflow generated noise from duct fittings can become the major noise problem. There exists only a limited amount of measured data on flow generated noise produced by some in-duct elements such as bends and transition pieces. This lack of data reflects the difficulty in obtaining such information from conventional measurements techniques. As an alternative to large scale data collection, attempts have been made to develop pressure-based techniques for predicting the flow generated noise in a duct. In this paper it is shown that the work of a number of investigators over a long period of time has resulted in the development of techniques for the accurate prediction of flow generated noise due to duct components.
A Prediction of the Influencing Factors of Floor Vibration
Authors: Chung S.C. , Chiang C.M. , Lin F.M. , Lee U.C.
Published: January 2017

The influencing factors of floor impact sound, are characteristics such as the impact source, floor vibration reaction, and sound radiation. In this article, computerised simulation is utilised to explore the influencing factors of floor impact vibration, including slab with beam, floor thickness, compression strength of concrete, etc. Based on the finite element method (FEM), which is frequently used by structure designers in Taiwan, this research establishes an effective convenient method of predicting the impact vibration characteristics of slabs with various boundary conditions. By means of the computerised simulation and measurements in the field, the validity of the research methods is confirmed. Then, how the floor impact characteristics is influenced by various factors is investigated with different computerised models. It is shown that the floor vibration will be decreased by increasing floor thickness, and also by changing the position and the numbers of the beam. However, the vibration insulation of the floor is not improved significantly when the compression strength of concrete is increased.
The Application of Computational Fluid Dynamics to the Prediction of Flow Generated Noise in Low Speed Ducts. Part 1: Fluctuating Drag Forces on a Flow Spoiler
Authors: Mak C.M. , Oldham D.J.
Published: January 2017

Nelson and Morfey have derived an expression for the sound power radiated from an in-duct spoiler subjected to the action of fluctuating drag forces arising from the flow turbulence in the vicinity of the spoiler. Although the derivation of an analytical expression for the fluctuating drag forces is impractical, an alternative approach could be the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The Navier-Stokes equations, which are the basis of CFD, provide a valid description of nearly all practically relevant flows including turbulent ones. However, in order to solve the relevant equations with sufficient accuracy to describe the fine detail of turbulent flow would mean working with a three dimensional mesh large enough to cover the region of interest but with spacing smaller than the smallest turbulent eddy present in the flow. Therefore the computational time required is unrealistically large even on modern super computers and using very efficient algorithms.

In this paper an engineering approach is followed similar to that of Nelson and Morfey and other researchers to explore the possibility of an alternative method in which information provided by standard turbulence models can be employed as the basis of an airflow noise prediction method. In view of the success of early investigators in collapsing experimental data based upon the assumption of a proportional relationship between steady and fluctuating forces, an attempt was first made to confirm the validity of the model developed against this assumption using computational fluid dynamics. Experimental results presented by previous investigators have been processed and compared with CFD predictions. As well as providing a degree of validation for the approach developed in this paper, this investigation sheds further light on the assumption implicit in much of the early work of a single constant of proportionality relating the fluctuating to steady state drag forces.
Multiple sclerosis immunopathic trait and HLA-DR(2)15 as independent risk factors in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Callander M. , Haghighi S. , Landtblom A.-M. , Ahlgren C.E. , Nilsson S.I. , Rydberg L. , Al Khoury H. , Rosengren L. , Andersen O.
Published: January 2017

We analysed HLA haplotypes in pairs of 78 sporadic multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and 78 healthy siblings. The presence of 2 oligoclonal IgG bands, detected by immunoblotting of the cerebrospinal fluid in healthy siblings, has previously been defined as MS immunopathic trait (MSIT), based on a cut-off derived from healthy unrelated volunteers. The frequency of MSIT was 17.9% (n=14/78 siblings). The HLA-DR(15)2 allelle was present in 21.4% (n=3/14) of the siblings with MSIT, in 40.6% (n =26/64) of the siblings without MSIT, and in 59% (n =46/78) of the patients with clinically-definite (CD) MS. The distribution of zero, one or two HLA-DR(2)15 alleles was significantly skewed towards a lower allelle count in the siblings with MSIT compared with the group of unrelated siblings with MS (P=0.002), and also lower than their related siblings with MS (P=0.1). These results suggest that the MS susceptibility gene, HLA-DR(2)15 type, does not induce MSIT, and conceivably these are two separate risk factors in the development of MS. The effect of HLA-DR(2)15 and MSIT in sporadic MS appears to be synergistic. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 441-445. http://msj.sagepub.com
Glyoxalase I A111E, paraoxonase 1 Q192R and L55M polymorphisms: susceptibility factors of multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Sidoti A. , Antognelli C. , Rinaldi C. , D'Angelo R. , Dattola V. , Girlanda P. , Talesa V. , Amato A.
Published: January 2017

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by chronic inflammation and demyelination of the central nervous system (CNS). Accumulating data indicate that oxidative stress, leading to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and lipid peroxidation, as well as elevated levels of advanced glycation end products (AGE) in CNS neurons, might play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of a number of diseases with a neurodegenerative aspect, such as MS. Therefore, polymorphisms of genes encoding endogenous free-radical scavenging systems, such as paraoxonase 1 (PON1), and anti-glycation defences, such as glyoxalase I (GI), could influence susceptibility to MS. In the present study, we have undertaken a case-control study to investigate the possible association of GI A111E, PON1 Q192R and L55M polymorphisms with the risk of MS. The three polymorphisms were characterized in 209 patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and in 213 healthy controls by PCR/RFLP methods using DNA from lymphocytes. We found that individuals with the GI/AE-EE genotypes and PON55/LM-MM genotypes had a significantly higher risk of MS compared with the other genotypes. The two polymorphisms appear to be common genetic traits that are associated with an increased risk for MS - the analysis of both, in each single case, may be a revealing predictable factor for MS risk. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: 446-453. http://msj.sagepub.com
Immune and non-immune actions of interferon-β-1b on primary human neural cells
Authors: McLaurin J , Antel JP , Yong VW
Published: January 2017

Systemic interferon-β-1b (IFN-β-1b) reduces the frequency of clinical exacerbations and the number of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-defined lesions in patients with relapsing—remitting MS. The basis for this clinical effect is not understood. While IFN-β-1b has been demonstrated to have antiproliferative and immunomodulatory effects on the sytemic immune system, its actions on neural cells could also contribute to its therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we hove examined possible immune and non-immune effects of IFN-β-1b on CNS-derived primary human cells. With respect to immune-related effects, application of IFN-β-1b did not decrease basal expression of HLA-DR on astrocytes or microglia, and it reduced the IFN-γ-enhanced HLA-DR expression on adult human astrocytes only at high concentrations (1000 IU ml-1); IFN-β-1b at all concentrations tested did not reduce the IFN-γ-enhanced HLA-DR expression by fetal astrocytes or adult microglial cells. In contrast, but in correspondence with the literature, the IFN-γ-enhanced HLA-DR expression on a glioma cell line was attenuated by IFN-β-1b in a dose-dependent manner. With respect to non-immune effects, the number of adult human oligodendrocytes and their state of morphological differentiation were not affected by IFN-β-1b. Proliferation of the mitotically active fetal human astrocytes, however, was reduced by IFN-β-1b treatment Lactate dehydrogenase assays revealed that IFN-β-1b was not toxic to neural cells, including adult oligodendrocytes and fetal human neurons. We conclude that IFN-β-1b lacks efficacy in down-regulating HLA-DR expression by primary human neural cells and that regulation of MHC class II antigens is unlikely to be a mechanism for its beneficial effect in MS. Finally, the lack of toxicity of IFN-β-1b on human neural cells is important for a drug that will probably be used widely.
Outcomes assessment in multiple sclerosis clinical trials: a critical analysis
Authors: Whitaker JN , McFarland HF , Rudge P , Reingold SC
Published: January 2017

The feasibility and precision of clinical trials for the treatment of MS must be improved Subsequent to the approval by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States of interferon beta-1b as a safe and effective, though not curative, treatment for relapsing-remitting MS, the testing of other agents in this disease has been undertaken or is anticipated. This report summarises the discussions and recommendations of an international workshop held to review critically the elements of current MS therapeutic trials and to identify the most important aspects of clinical evaluation, study design and data analysis that would allow agents for MS to be tested as accurately, rapidly and economically as possible. While acknowledging the many uncertainties about the pathophysiology and natural history of MS, the workshop participants made recommendations about the preferred components to be used in the design of trials which may be different depending on the treatment goal and agent studied. It was concluded that the formulation of a useful clinical trial design must be based on specific guidelines for clinical scales and imaging for which task forces were recommended and subsequently appointed.
Case finding for epidemiological surveys of multiple sclerosis in United States communities
Authors: Nelson LM , Anderson DW
Published: January 2017

In regard to prevalence surveys of MS in US communities, this article considers the relative merits of case finding through hospitals, physicians, M service organisations, neurology practices, death certificates, chronic care facilities and media announcements and lay referrals. The current value ***c hospitals and non-neurological practitioners for case finding is questionable, given the changes in clinical practice with respect to MS and the da*** collection problems inherent with surveys of physicians. We suggest giving priority to the following case-finding methods: manually reviewing potien*** records of neurology practices, screening patient rolls of local MS service organisations and surveying chronic care facilities. In some US*** communities, these methods may need to be augmented by also surveying internists, general practitioners and family practitioners. ***Capture-recapture methodology offers a way to evaluate the completeness of case ascertainment.
A humoral response to OSP in multiple sclerosis: A molecular mimic?
Authors: Bronstein J M , Lallone R , Seitz R S , Ellison G W , Myers L W
Published: January 2017

Oligodendrocyte-specifie protein (OSP) is a recently isolated novel protein found only in CNS laminar myelin and therefor is a good candidate as an autoantigen in patients with MS. In order to determine the humoral response in patients with MS. Westren blot analysis was performed on CSF from 6 patients with clinically stable relapsing MS (rMS) and 2 normal controls. All 6 of the CSF samples from rMS patients contained anti-OSP antibodies and none were detected in controls. Peptide mapping determined that the antigenic response was directed at a 7 amino acid peptide (OSP 114-120) which was 71% homologous with several common viral and bacterial proteins and 100% identical to the human OSP protein. ELISAs were performed using OSP 114-20 as antigen on a total 32 MS patints followed at UCLA, 53 MS patients from the National Neurological Rescarch Specimen Bank (NNRSB), and on 51 neurological control samples. Eighty % of UCLA rMS patients had an OSP ELISA reading above 0.55 OD units (median ± SD, 0.94 ± .35) while 0 of 14 CSF samples from HTLV-1 patients and normal controls had values above 0.55 units (0.28 ± .12; p<.01). Similar results were found in specimens from the NNRSB. No differences in anti-OSP titers were found in serum of MS and control patients. ELISAs performed on CSF samples using homologus viral peptieds as antigen (e.g. EBV, HSV HIV) showed a close correlation with anti-OSP 114-120 titers, and in some, the anti-viral titers far exceeded them. These data demonstrate a specific humoral response directed against a region of OSP in rMS patinets which cross reacts with several common viral peptides and suggests a possible role of molecular mimicry in the development of MS.
Participatory design methods in telemedicine research
Authors: Clemensen Jane , Rothmann Mette J , Smith Anthony C , Caffery Liam J , Danbjorg Dorthe B
Published: January 2017

Healthcare systems require a paradigm shift in the way healthcare services are delivered to counteract demographic changes in patient populations, expanding technological developments and the increasing complexity of healthcare. Participatory design (PD) is a methodology that promotes the participation of users in the design process of potential telehealth applications. A PD project can be divided into four phases including: the identification and analysis of participant needs; the generation of ideas and development of prototypes; testing and further development of prototypes; and evaluation. PD is an iterative process where each phase is planned by reflecting on the results from the previous phase with respect to the participants’ contribution. Key activities of a PD project include: fieldwork; literature reviewing; and development and testing. All activities must be applied with a participatory mindset that will ensure genuine participation throughout the project. Challenges associated with the use of PD include: the time required to properly engage with participants; language and culture barriers amongst participants; the selection of participants to ensure good representation of the user group; and empowerment. PD is an important process, which is complemented by other evaluation strategies that assess organisational requirements, clinical safety, and clinical and cost effectiveness. PD is a methodology which encourages genuine involvement, where participants have an opportunity to identify practical problems and to design and test technology. The process engages participants in storytelling, future planning and design. PD is a multifaceted assessment tool that helps explore more accurately clinical requirements and patient perspectives in telehealth.
Cholangiocarcinoma — Current Treatment Options
Authors: Friman S.
Published: January 2017

The treatment for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remains a challenge because of the aggressive nature of the disease and the absence of effective treatments besides surgical resection (HR) and liver transplantation (LT). In intrahepatic CCA, HR remains the treatment of choice whereas with concomitant liver disease such as cirrhosis or primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), LT is the only option.

Hilar CCA or Klatskin tumours have in recent decades been managed with a more aggressive surgical approach to achieve R0 resection. This approach usually involves preoperative portal embolisation, followed by liver resection — Sometimes extensive and even with portal vein resection. The recent protocols that combine preoperative neoadjuvant chemoirridation and LT show promising results that need to be confirmed. The development of diagnostic modalities (tumour markers, cytology and radiology) are of the utmost importance to identify these patients at an early stage to preserve radical surgery possible.

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignant disease of the epithelial cells in the intra- and extrahepatic bile ducts. While still a rare malignant disease, CCA is the second most common primary malignancy of the liver. The incidence is increasing; especially the incidence of intrahepatic CCA (1). The treatment of CCA is challenging as it is usually difficult to diagnose when radical surgical treatment, resection (HR) or liver transplantation (LT) is possible. The lack of effective medical treatment makes a radical surgical resection or hepatectomy the only therapeutic option. Most of the CCAs are unresectable at presentation and the prognosis for these patients is dismal.
Facebook in context(s): Measuring emotional responses across time and space
Authors: Bayer Joseph , Ellison Nicole , Schoenebeck Sarita , Brady Erin , Falk Emily B
Published: January 2017

This article advances a contextual approach to understanding the emotional and social outcomes of Facebook use. In doing so, we address the ambiguity of previously reported relationships between Facebook use and well-being. We test temporal (shorter vs longer time spans) and spatial (at home vs away from home) dimensions of Facebook activity using an innovative approach. By triggering smartphone surveys in response to users’ naturalistic Facebook posting, we captured the immediate context of both mobile and desktop activities during daily life. Findings indicated positive—yet fleeting—emotional experiences up to 10 minutes after active posting and higher arousal for 30 minutes following posting at home. Nonetheless, Facebook activities predicted no changes in aggregate mood over 2 weeks, despite showing positive relationships to bridging social capital during the same period. Our results call attention to fleeting experiences (vs enduring consequences) and encourage future research to specify temporal and spatial boundaries.
Applying Learning Theory to Safety and Health Training for Hispanic Immigrant Dairy Workers
Authors: Juárez-Carrillo Patricia M. , Liebman Amy K. , Reyes Iris Anne C. , Ninco Sánchez Yurany V. , Keifer Matthew C.
Published: January 2017

We designed a safety and health curriculum for dairy immigrant workers aiming to increase knowledge, encourage safe behavior, and reduce worker communication inequalities to prevent occupational injury and diseases. The design is largely based on the Taxonomy of Significant Learning and incorporated behavioral and adult learning theories and principles of occupational hazard control. Trainings were implemented with 836 Spanish-speaking workers from 67 farms in Wisconsin. Sixty-seven percent of workers reported never being trained before in dairy safety, 65% of these worked in dairy for 5 or fewers years, and 26% of workers reported being ever injured while working on dairy. Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of the trainings suggest that our curriculum successfully increased worker knowledge and promoted contemplation of safe practices. The overall knowledge gain of 25% was statistically significant ( p < .01). Workers recalled at least one key concept, expressed confidence of adopting at least one safety behavior, and mentioned their intention to communicate safety concerns to farmers. To our knowledge, this is the first Taxonomy of Significant Learning application to occupational safety and health education. Our curriculum can support dairy farmers’ compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s annual training requirements by providing our basic safety and health training to workers at early job stages.
Validation of the NITI Endoluminal Compression Anastomosis Ring (EndoCAR) Device and Comparison to the Traditional Circular Stapled Colorectal Anastomosis in a Porcine Model
Authors: Stewart David , Hunt Steven , Pierce Richard , Dongli Mao  , Frisella Margaret , Cook Kathryn , Starcher Barry , Fleshman James
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the characteristics of compression anastomoses created by a new device are comparable to existing stapler technology. A total of 18 pigs were studied, and each served as its own control using a 27-mm compression device and a 29-mm stapler. Anastomoses were randomized to proximal and distal positions along the rectum and were separated by 10 cm. Six nonsurvival pigs were sacrificed at zero time to failure test the anastomoses. Twelve pigs were sacrificed at 14 days. Failure pressures, circumferences, and radiographic leak rates were determined. Anastomotic tissue was processed for matrix metalloproteinase, collagen, and elastin levels. The compression anastomoses had higher mean failure pressures than stapled anastomoses at zero time (103 vs 29.9 mm Hg). At 2 weeks, there was no difference between failure pressures (256 vs 250 mm Hg). During burst testing, 3 of the compression anastomoses failed at the anastomosis at 2 weeks, whereas none of the stapled anastomoses failed. The mean anastomotic circumference of the compression anastomoses was narrower than the stapled anastomoses (9.63 vs 11.25 cm, P = .001). There were no clinical leaks or radiographic leaks by barium enema at 2 weeks. There was no difference between matrix metalloproteinase, collagen, or elastin content based on tissue analysis. There were dense adhesions to 7 of 12 (58.3%) of the stapled anastomoses, whereas only 1 of 12 (8.3%) of the compression anastomoses had flimsy adhesions. A new compression anastomosis technique using a nickel-titanium alloy may be an advance in technology by reducing leaks and eliminating foreign material in the anastomosis.
Endovascular Thrombolysis for Severe Cerebral Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Peng Y. , Xuan J-G. , Yang Y-L. , Wang S-N.
Published: January 2017

Cerebral venous and sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare but life-threatening disease accounting for less than 1% of all strokes and a poor outcome in around 10% of all patients. Early diagnosis is crucial because anticoagulation may reduce the risk of a fatal outcome and severe disability. However, the absence of specific features and the possibility of presentation without associated neurological signs can make its early recognition difficult. For these CVST patients with deteriorating symptoms, endovascular thrombolysis might give better outcome. We describe our five cases of CVST with clinical deteriorating symptoms treated with endovascular thrombolysis. Four patients made an excellent recovery, whereas one patient died despite maximal treatment including decompressive craniectomy.
A Novel Treatment of Distal Cerebral Vasospasm
Authors: Alnaami I. , Saqqur M. , Chow M.
Published: January 2017

A 22-year-old woman had an aneurysmal SAH due to a ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm and was treated successfully with endovascular coiling. The patient subsequently developed severe clinical and angiographically distal vasospasm. After failure of both medical treatment and proximal balloon angioplasty, the NeuroFlo™ device was tried and the patient showed substantial clinical recovery. We demonstrated an excellent outcome using a novel treatment for distal cerebral vasospasm with the NeuroFlo™ device.
Using a Distal Access Catheter in Acute Stroke Intervention with Penumbra, Merci and Gateway
Authors: Kalia J.S. , Zaidat O.O.
Published: January 2017

This technical report describes the successful use of the newly introduced Distal Access Catheter, initially designed to work with the Merci Retrieval System with the Penumbra aspiration system as the main aspiration catheter. Both devices, one a clot retriever and the other a thrombo-aspiration device, can be used and deployed via the same catheter saving time during acute stoke intervention. Moreover, the larger inner diameter of the distal access catheter may allow more effective clot aspiration.
Successful Endovascular Treatment of Pulsatile Tinnitus Caused by a Sigmoid Sinus Aneurysm
Authors: Gard A.P. , Klopper H.B. , Thorell W.E.
Published: January 2017

We describe the case of a 48-year-old woman who presented with a sigmoid sinus aneurysm. These rare entities have only recently been described in the literature and the ideal treatment approach has not been elucidated. This report represents additional evidence in a growing body of literature that suggests that endovascular therapy is a safe and effective therapeutic alternative to surgical reconstruction of the sigmoid sinus in selected cases of intractable pulsatile tinnitus.
Successful Transarterial Guglielmi Detachable Coil Embolization of Post-Traumatic Fistula between a Posterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm and the Cavernous Sinus
Authors: Chen Y. , Jiang D-Y. , Tan H-Q. , Wang L-H. , Chen X-Y. , Sun J-H.
Published: January 2017

We describe a case of a post-traumatic posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysmcavernous sinus fistula, which is an extremely rare complication of craniocerebral trauma, successfully treated with endosaccular coil embolization via transarterial route. Endosaccular embolization with Guglielmi detachable coils via transarterial route appears to be a feasible, effective and minimally invasive option for the treatment of post-traumatic fistula between the PCoA aneurysm with a small ostia and the cavernous sinus in the subacute phase.
Balloon-Assisted Technique for Trapped Microcatheter Retrieval following Onyx Embolization
Authors: Santillan A. , Zink W. , Knopman J. , Riina H. , Gobin Y.P.
Published: January 2017

During embolization of a large frontal arteriovenous malformation (AVM), Onyx-18 (eV3) was injected into an M3 branch of the middle cerebral artery via a Marathon microcatheter (eV3). After 40 minutes of embolization, the microcatheter could not be retracted due to fixation within the Onyx cast despite prolonged, robust attempts. A balloon microcatheter (HyperformTM, eV3) was advanced distally and inflated to provide distal counter tension, allowing microcatheter retrieval with minimal traction on the vasculature.
Spinal Epidural Arteriovenous Fistula: A Unique Pathway into the Perimedullary Vein
Authors: Lim S.M. , Choi I.S.
Published: January 2017

Spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are rare vascular malformations in the spinal dura, fed by dural branches of the radicular arteries, and drain primarily into intradural venous plexuses. They may cause elevated medullary venous pressure and produce a progressive myelopathy.

We describe a case of AVF in the epidural space of the previous surgery site of L3 and it showed a unique complex venous pathway into the perimedullary vein, leading to classic clinical symptoms of venous congestion in the spinal cord. The shunt was draining into bilateral epidural venous plexus and then to the paravertebral veins at the level of L2. The venous outflow entered to the epidural space again and finally refluxed into the intradural perimedullary vein.
N-Acetylcysteine Augments Surface Thiols and Differentially Modulates Cell Adhesion and Invasion in vitro and Metastatic Potential in vivo of B16F1 Melanoma
Authors: Laragione T. , Tonelli R. , D'Incalci M. , Colombo T. , Ghezzi P.
Published: January 2017

The redox state of surface protein thiols influences a variety of cell functions, and we recently reported that adhesion molecules can be redox regulated. We investigated the effect of reducing surface thiols using N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on the biological properties of murine melanoma B16F1 cells. Treating the cells with NAC (5mM for 2h, then removed by washing) augmented their capacity to adhere to fibronectin, as well as to adhere to and invade an endothelial cell monolayer. This was associated with an augmented expression of reduced surface protein thiols. However, when control or NAC-pretreated melanoma cells were injected i.v. in mice to induce experimental lung metastases, we could observe an inhibition of metastatic potential by NAC. This discrepancy suggest that other redox sensitive steps, in addition to adhesion, are important in regulating the metastatic phenotype in vivo.
Treatment of Psoriasis Vulgaris with Calcipotriol Betamethasone Dipropionate Combination Followed by Calcipotriol and Assessment of the Adjuvant Basic Use of Urea-Based Emollients
Authors: Vena G.A. , Cassano N. , Agnusdei C.P. , Bellini M. , Calabretta S. , Centofanti S. , Cervadoro G. , Coviello C. , Curia S. , Dattola S. , De Caro C. , Del Brocco L. , Donato L. , Favero L. , Ferrari A. , Gianfaldoni R. , Liguori G. , Loconsole F. , Lopreiato R. , Malara G. , Massimino S.D. , Nannipieri A. , Pettinato M. , Postiglione D. , Postorino C. , Pronesti' M.E. , Provenzano E.O. , Guerra A. Puglisi , Ricciuti F. , Ruggiero G. , Scudero A. , Spitaleri S. , Armati F. Trinca , Valenti G. , Vernaci R. , Verrina F. , Zagni G.F. , Zappala' F.
Published: January 2017

A new combination product containing betamethasone dipropionate and calcipotriol (Dovobet® ointment) has been proven very effective and well tolerated in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Emollients are adjunctive modalities commonly used in psoriasis; however, their actual role in combination with topical drugs as well as well as their compatibility with these drugs have not been well elucidated. In 313 adult patients with psoriasis vulgaris, we studied the efficacy and tolerability of treatment with Dovobet® ointment combined with urea-based emollients (Excipial U®) for 4 weeks, followed by treatment with calcipotriol (Daivonex®) either alone (group A) or combined with urea-containing emollients (Excipial U®, group B) for 8 weeks. Clinical evaluations were performed at baseline, at 4 and 12 weeks, assessing the clinical score for erythema, scaling, infiltration and pruritus, graded on the basis of a 5-point scale. After the initial 4-week treatment, a significant improvement of all clinical parameters was observed (p<0.05). Overall, clinical results improved further during the maintenance treatment phase; significant changes (p<0.05) were observed in each group. Most patients considered treatment efficacy positively at both 4 weeks and 12 weeks. Interestingly, at the end of the study, a greater percentage of patients in group B than in group A judged the efficacy as excellent. Treatment was very well tolerated. Only two patients complained of mild and transient burning sensation during the first days of treatment. The results of this study confirm the great efficacy and tolerability of sequential treatment with Dovobet®, and Daivonex® in psoriasis vulgaris and show the enhanced acceptability of this treatment associated with urea-based emollients.