bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do people with chronically painful joint hypermobility syndrome make decisions about activity?
Authors: Schmidt Anne , Corcoran Kelley , Grahame Rodney , de C Williams Amanda C
Published: October 2014

Background:

The model of activity avoidance prompted by fear of increased pain and/or harm dominates understanding and research into activity limitation in chronic pain. Yet, the accounts of people with chronic pain on decisions about activity limitation are rarely heard beyond the confines of fear and avoidance questionnaires.

Methods:

We used semi-structured interviews to explore the decisions of 11 women attending a pain management clinic with chronically painful Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (JHS).

Results:

Six themes emerged from Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis: the overall aim of keeping pain to a manageable level, considering whether the planned activity was worth it and, running through all judgements, the influence of pain intensity. The decision was tipped towards avoidance by unpredictability of pain and by high emotional cost and towards going ahead with the activity by the wish to exert control and by low emotional cost. Many accounts described a specifiable cost–benefit analysis of individual decisions, weighing the importance of each activity against its potential aversive consequences, which only in a minority of cases was dominated by fear of pain or injury.

Conclusion:

Assumptions of fear as the basis of activity avoidance should not be used uncritically in clinical settings. Decisions about activity should explore beyond pain expectancy, incorporating goals, values, and decision processes.

Summary points

The model of fear of pain or re/injury and associated avoidance, an important insight that has generated effective therapeutic interventions, risks being over-applied and assumed rather than demonstrated. Patients’ own accounts, using qualitative analysis of interview in 11 women with long term chronic pain associated with joint hypermobility, give a more nuanced description of complex decision-making around activity. While a few activities were unquestionably avoided because of such fears, others were undertaken when benefits (according to personal values, such as children’s needs) outweighed costs in pain and distress. We suggest that activity needs to be discussed with patients beyond asking about avoidance and in the context of their lifestyle choices.
A Review of Phenytoin Monotherapy in Adults With Nonrefractory Status Epilepticus
Authors: Watson Roshawn
Published: October 2014

Objective: To review the literature evaluating the efficacy of phenytoin monotherapy in adults with nonrefractory status epilepticus. Data Sources: Articles were selected through a search of MEDLINE/PubMed (1966 to August 2014), using the terms phenytoin and status epilepticus. A further review of reference citations was performed to identify other relevant articles. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language case reports and clinical studies were reviewed. Publications evaluating the efficacy of phenytoin monotherapy primarily in adults with nonrefractory status epilepticus were included in the review. Two case studies and 5 clinical studies met the criteria. Data Synthesis: The ultimate goal for status epilepticus treatment is seizure cessation. Phenytoin, a venerable and oft-utilized antiepileptic, has been employed in first-line and second-line regimens for status epilepticus. Unfortunately, despite decades of use, data on the efficacy of phenytoin monotherapy in these nonrefractory cases have been limited. The available studies are quite heterogeneous in design, with variable underlying etiologies of status epilepticus, doses of study drugs, and comparators. Additionally, most are underpowered. When administered as second-line therapy, phenytoin monotherapy is comparable to valproic acid in abating status epilepticus. As first-line therapy, phenytoin monotherapy was inferior to lorazepam but not diazepam when used in combination with phenytoin or phenobarbital. Two other studies comparing phenytoin with valproic acid as first-line therapy had conflicting results. Conclusions: In adults with nonrefractory status epilepticus, phenytoin monotherapy is a viable option for second-line therapy. The data do not consistently support phenytoin monotherapy’s use as first-line treatment. More robust and adequately powered clinical studies are needed to assess whether these results remain consistent and extend to more long-term efficacy measures, such as morbidity and mortality.
Microstructure and corrosion resistance of pulse electrodeposited Ni–Cr coatings
Authors: Sun J. , Du D. X. , Lv H. F. , Zhou L. , Wang Y. G. , Qi C. G.
Published: October 2014

In this study, Ni–Cr alloy coatings were obtained on mild carbon steel surface by direct current (DC) and pulse current (PC) electrodeposition from a kind of acid solution. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM) were used to analyse the phase structure and surface morphology. The microhardness of the Ni–Cr alloy coatings was evaluated using microhardness tester. The electrochemical behaviour of the Ni–Cr alloy coatings was investigated by polarisation curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3·5 wt-% NaCl solution. The results indicated that the microstructure and corrosion resistance of the Ni–Cr alloy coatings were greatly affected by electrodeposition method. The PC alloy coatings exhibited more compact surface, higher microhardness and better corrosion resistance compared with those of the DC alloy coatings.
Update on intravitreal anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha therapies for ocular disorders
Authors: Pascual-Camps Isabel , Hernández-Martínez Pablo , Monje-Fernández Laura , Dolz-Marco Rosa , Gallego-Pinazo Roberto , Wu Lihteh , Arévalo J Fernando , Díaz-Llopis Manuel
Published: October 2014

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-?) is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine associated with a variety of ocular diseases. The currently available TNF-? inhibitors are etanercept, infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, and certolizumab. Experimental and clinical studies on the intravitreal use of these agents have been reported with etanercept, infliximab, and adalimumab: etanercept has shown limited efficacy in scarce reports; infliximab has been associated with local safety concerns but appears to benefit certain cases; adalimumab has shown no efficacy in cases of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or diabetic macular edema (DME), but the combination with bevacizumab may be effective in refractory cases of macular diseases. Further preclinical and clinical studies are warranted in order to be able to obtain a more robust conclusion on the use of intravitreal TNF-? inhibitors.
Novel clinical therapeutics targeting the epithelial to mesenchymal transition
Authors: Kothari Anai N , Mi Zhiyong , Zapf Matthew , Kuo Paul C
Published: October 2014

The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is implicated in many processes, ranging from tissue and organogenesis to cancer and metastatic spread. Understanding the key regulatory mechanisms and mediators within this process offers the opportunity to develop novel therapeutics with broad clinical applicability. To date, several components of EMT already are targeted using pharmacologic agents in fibrosis and cancer. As our knowledge of EMT continues to grow, the potential for novel therapeutics will also increase. This review focuses on the role of EMT both as a necessary part of development and a key player in disease progression, specifically the similarity in pathways used during both processes as targets for drug development. Also, the key role of the tumor microenvironment with EMT is outlined, focusing on both co‐factors and cell types with the ability to modulate the progression of EMT in cancer and metastatic disease. Lastly, we discuss the current status of clinical therapies both in development and those progressed to clinical trial specifically targeting pathologic EMTs including small molecule inhibitors, non‐coding RNAs, exogenous co‐factors, and adjunctive therapies to current chemotherapeutics.
Solid-phase bulk modulus and microinhomogeneity parameter from quasistatic compression experiments
Authors: Müller Tobias M. , Sahay Pratap N.
Published: October 2014

Quasistatic deformation experiments in the laboratory are key to determining the poroelastic moduli of rocks. For microinhomogeneous porous rocks, it is a challenge to determine a complete set of poroelastic parameters. This is because an additional parameter is required that quantifies the effect of microinhomogeneities because then the unjacketed bulk and pore moduli are no longer the same as the bulk modulus of the solid phase. We found that measurements for the drained and unjacketed bulk moduli together with Skempton’s pore-pressure build-up coefficient were sufficient to determine the solid-phase bulk modulus and the microinhomogeneity parameter. The latter served as a direct measure for the deviation from Biot-Gassmann prediction for the undrained bulk modulus. We applied the results to a set of measured poroelastic moduli in which microinhomogeneities have been made responsible for a non-Gassmann rock behavior. Accordingly, our estimate for the microinhomogeneity parameter quantified the deviation from the Biot-Gassmann prediction.
Intense Androgen-Deprivation Therapy With Abiraterone Acetate Plus Leuprolide Acetate in Patients With Localized High-Risk Prostate Cancer: Results of a Randomized Phase II Neoadjuvant Study
Authors: Taplin Mary-Ellen , Montgomery Bruce , Logothetis Christopher J. , Bubley Glenn J. , Richie Jerome P. , Dalkin Bruce L. , Sanda Martin G. , Davis John W. , Loda Massimo , True Lawrence D. , Troncoso Patricia , Ye Huihui , Lis Rosina T. , Marck Brett T. , Matsumoto Alvin M. , Balk Steven P. , Mostaghel Elahe A. , Penning Trevor M. , Nelson Peter S. , Xie Wanling , Jiang Zhenyang , Haqq Christopher M. , Tamae Daniel , Tran NamPhuong , Peng Weimin , Kheoh Thian , Molina Arturo , Kantoff Philip W.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Cure rates for localized high-risk prostate cancers (PCa) and some intermediate-risk PCa are frequently suboptimal with local therapy. Outcomes are improved by concomitant androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) with radiation therapy, but not by concomitant ADT with surgery. Luteinizing hormone–releasing hormone agonist (LHRHa; leuprolide acetate) does not reduce serum androgens as effectively as abiraterone acetate (AA), a prodrug of abiraterone, a CYP17 inhibitor that lowers serum testosterone (< 1 ng/dL) and improves survival in metastatic PCa. The possibility that greater androgen suppression in patients with localized high-risk PCa will result in improved clinical outcomes makes paramount the reassessment of neoadjuvant ADT with more robust androgen suppression.

Patients and Methods

A neoadjuvant randomized phase II trial of LHRHa with AA was conducted in patients with localized high-risk PCa (N = 58). For the first 12 weeks, patients were randomly assigned to LHRHa versus LHRHa plus AA. After a research prostate biopsy, all patients received 12 additional weeks of LHRHa plus AA followed by prostatectomy.

Results

The levels of intraprostatic androgens from 12-week prostate biopsies, including the primary end point (dihydrotestosterone/testosterone), were significantly lower (dehydroepiandrosterone, Δ4-androstene-3,17-dione, dihydrotestosterone, all P < .001; testosterone, P < .05) with LHRHa plus AA compared with LHRHa alone. Prostatectomy pathologic staging demonstrated a low incidence of complete responses and minimal residual disease, with residual T3- or lymph node–positive disease in the majority.

Conclusion

LHRHa plus AA treatment suppresses tissue androgens more effectively than LHRHa alone. Intensive intratumoral androgen suppression with LHRHa plus AA before prostatectomy for localized high-risk PCa may reduce tumor burden.
Exercise and Risk of Major Cardiovascular Events in Adult Survivors of Childhood Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Jones Lee W. , Liu Qi , Armstrong Gregory T. , Ness Kirsten K. , Yasui Yutaka , Devine Katie , Tonorezos Emily , Soares-Miranda Luisa , Sklar Charles A. , Douglas Pamela S. , Robison Leslie L. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: October 2014

Purpose

Survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) are at increased risk of treatment-related cardiovascular (CV) events; whether exercise modifies this risk is unknown.

Methods

Survivors of HL (n = 1,187; median age, 31.2 years) completed a questionnaire evaluating vigorous-intensity exercise behavior. CV events were collected in follow-up questionnaires and graded according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (version 4.03). The primary end point was incidence of any major (grade 3 to 5) CV event. Poisson regression analyses were used to estimate the association between exercise exposure (metabolic equivalent [MET] hours/week−1) and risk of major CV events after adjustment for clinical covariates and cancer treatment.

Results

Median follow-up was 11.9 years (range, 1.7 to 14.3 years). Cumulative incidence of any CV event was 12.2% at 10 years for survivors reporting 0 MET hours/week−1 compared with 5.2% for those reporting ≥ 9 MET hours/week−1. In multivariable analyses, the incidence of any CV event decreased across increasing MET categories (Ptrend = .002). Compared with survivors reporting 0 MET hours/week−1, the adjusted rate ratio for any CV event was 0.87 (95% CI, 0.56 to 1.34) for 3 to 6 MET hours/week−1, 0.45 (95% CI, 0.26 to 0.80) for 9 to 12 MET hours/week−1, and 0.47 (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.95) for 15 to 21 MET hours/week−1. Adherence to national vigorous intensity exercise guidelines (ie, ≥ 9 MET hours/week−1) was associated with a 51% reduction in the risk of any CV event in comparison with not meeting the guidelines (P = .002).

Conclusion

Vigorous exercise was associated with a lower risk of CV events in a dose-dependent manner independent of CV risk profile and treatment in survivors of HL.
Relationship Between 17-Hydroxyprogesterone Responses to Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Markers of Ovarian Follicle Morphology in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Maas Kevin H. , Chuan Sandy S. , Cook-Andersen Heidi , Su H. Irene , Duleba A. , Chang R. Jeffrey
Published: October 2014

Context:

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have increased 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) responses to gonadotropin stimulation although individual variability is substantial, as reflected by exaggerated as well as normal responses. The relationship between 17-OHP responses to gonadotropin stimulation and markers of ovarian function has not been assessed.

Objective:

To determine whether 17-OHP responses are associated with antral follicle count (AFC), anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), or inhibin B (Inh B) levels in PCOS and normal women.

Design:

Prospective study.

Setting:

Research center at an academic medical center.

Participants:

Women with PCOS (n = 18) and normal controls (n = 18).

Interventions:

Blood samples were obtained before and 24 hours after administration of 25 μg recombinant-human chorionic gonadotropin. Ovarian imaging was conducted with three-dimensional pelvic ultrasound.

Main Outcome Measures:

Basal and stimulated levels of 17-OHP, androgens, estrogen, AMH, Inh B, and AFC.

Results:

In women with PCOS, 17-OHP responses were heterogeneous and inversely correlated with AMH and Inh B levels, but not AFC. In a subgroup of PCOS women with exaggerated 17-OHP responses, AMH levels were equivalent to that of normal women. In PCOS women with normal 17-OHP responses, AMH levels were markedly elevated.

Conclusion:

Based on heterogeneous 17-OHP responses to human chorionic gonadotropin in women with PCOS, AMH levels are inversely linked to ovarian androgen production while positively correlated with AFC. These findings suggest that in PCOS, AMH production may reflect redistribution of the follicle population or regulation by intraovarian mechanisms.
Raising the profile of your fundraising work
Authors: Best Brin
Published: October 2014

Brin Best explains how to raise the profile of your fundraising work to keep it at the top of the agenda in your school and in the wider community.
Tips on maximising your PTA's fundraising
Authors: Bannister Nick , Galbraith Jane
Published: October 2014

Nick Bannister invites school business management experts to share five pieces of advice. This month, Jane Galbraith from PTA-UK on how school business managers can support their PTAs.
Antimicrobial Stewardship in a Community Hospital: Attacking the More Difficult Problems
Authors: Smith Terri , Philmon Carla L. , Johnson Gregory D. , Ward William S. , Rivers Latoya L. , Williamson Sharon A. , Goodman Edward L.
Published: October 2014

Background

Antibiotic stewardship has been proposed as an important way to reduce or prevent antibiotic resistance. In 2001, a community hospital implemented an antimicrobial management program. It was successful in reducing antimicrobial utilization and expenditure. In 2011, with the implementation of a data-mining tool, the program was expanded and its focus transitioned from control of antimicrobial use to guiding judicious antimicrobial prescribing.

Objective

To test the hypothesis that adding a data-mining tool to an existing antimicrobial stewardship program will further increase appropriate use of antimicrobials.

Design

Interventional study with historical comparison.

Methods

Rules and alerts were built into the data-mining tool to aid in identifying inappropriate antibiotic utilization. Decentralized pharmacists acted on alerts for intravenous (IV) to oral conversion, perioperative antibiotic duration, and restricted antimicrobials. An Infectious Diseases (ID) Pharmacist and ID Physician/Hospital Epidemiologist focused on all other identified alert types such as antibiotic de-escalation, bug-drug mismatch, and double coverage. Electronic chart notes and phone calls to physicians were utilized to make recommendations.

Results

During 2012, 2,003 antimicrobial interventions were made with a 90% acceptance rate. Targeted broad-spectrum antimicrobial use decreased by 15% in 2012 compared to 2010, which represented cost savings of $1,621,730. There were no statistically significant changes in antimicrobial resistance, and no adverse patient outcomes were noted.

Conclusions

The addition of a data-mining tool to an antimicrobial stewardship program can further decrease inappropriate use of antimicrobials, provide a greater reduction in overall antimicrobial use, and provide increased cost savings without negatively affecting patient outcomes.
Information-Theoretic Image Formation with Applications in Hyperspectral and Medical Imaging
Authors: O’Sullivan Joseph A.
Published: October 2014

Information theory plays a role in many aspects of imaging problems,
from the problem definition, through the development of algorithms, to
the implementation of those algorithms and performance quantification.
While derivation of performance bounds is arguably the most
fundamental contribution of information theory to imaging problems,
development of algorithms based on information-theoretic criteria is
also important. An important class of algorithms for imaging problem
consists of alternating minimization algorithms. We discuss the
derivation of alternating minimization algorithms that result from
minimization of the I-divergence between two functions where the first
function is restricted to a linear family and the second function is
restricted to an exponential family. Many well known alternating
minimization algorithms fit within this framework including algorithms
for extracting endmembers in hyperspectral imaging and for forming
images in transmission tomography. These two examples are discussed in
detail.
Spatio-spectral triangulation using a rotational shear interferometer
Authors: Gallieehio Jason , Cull Evan , Kraut S. , Brady D. J.
Published: October 2014

We use a rotational shearing interferometer to determine the angular location and wavelength of sparse point sources by capturing 2 interference patterns on a CCD array. Wo demonstrate this using a portable RSI with embedded processing.
Simulations of Information and Noise Dynamics in Support Constrained Image Deconvolution
Authors: Hope Douglas , Prasad Sudhakar
Published: October 2014

Shannon information may provide a useful and inequivalent alternative to noise based metrics when characterizing the performance of an imaging system. We present simulations of how a ground-based astronomical telescope processes the information in objects it views and images.
Information Capacity of Seeing Limited Imaging Systems
Authors: Prasad Sudhakar
Published: October 2014

We apply Shannon’s statistical information measure to calculate the maximum capacity of a ground-based astronomical imaging system to process the information in the objects it views under varying strengths of atmospheric turbulence and detector noise.
Information-theoretic treatment of axial imaging
Authors: Barbastathis George , Sinha Arnab , Neifelc Mark A.
Published: October 2014

We present an information theoretic formulation of imaging resolution for axially extended objects, and use it to compare the performance of confocal microscopes and volume holographic imaging systems.
Axial imaging necessitates loss of lateral shift invariance
Authors: Stein Andy , Sinha Arnab , Barbastathis George
Published: October 2014

We conjecture that the lateral shift invariance of an imaging system must be limited if axial imaging capability is desired. We develop shift invariance and depth resolution metrics and demonstrate the trade-off in simple representative systems.
Information capacity of sampling-limited systems
Authors: Rahman Zia-ur
Published: October 2014

Information-capacity of sampled imaging systems is explored as a function of system parameters which include signal-to-noise ratio, optical transfer function of the lens and photodetector array, and quantization and sampling due to the digitization process.
Resolution and information capacity dependence on photodetector size
Authors: Euliss Gary W. , van der Gracht Joseph
Published: October 2014

An information-based definition of minimum resolution is applied to the imaging of spatially continuous grayscale objects. Using this definition, it is shown that the improvement in resolution achieved by reducing the pixel size is limited.
Insights from the development of two generations of networked sensor and processor systems
Authors: Morrison R.L. , Stack R.A. , Brady D.J.
Published: October 2014

A wirelessly networked array of integrated sensor and processing modules has demonstrated video-rate tomographic reconstruction previously shown on a video enabled supercomputer cluster. We discuss issues regarding design and development of these first- and second-generation distributed sensing and processing platforms.
Modeling of sparse aperture telescope image quality
Authors: Fiete Robert D.
Published: October 2014

Sparse aperture imaging systems are mathematically modeled so that high fidelity image simulations can be produced. These simulations are used to better understand the image quality issues, such as low MTF and noise amplification, with sparse aperture systems.
3D Iterative Restoration of Tomosynthetic Images
Authors: Persons Timothy M. , Hemler Paul F. , Plemmons Robert J.
Published: October 2014

Analytic determination of the 3D PSF of a tomosynthetic image volume allows ns to solve the ill-posed inverse problem of recovering an image volume from a nonspecific orientation of projection views. We apply a nonlinear iterative 3D technique with nonnegativity constraints to restore these inherently blurred images from tuned-aperture reconstructed volumes.
De la resistencia al duelo: las ficciones sobre las dictaduras realizadas en Argentina y Chile entre 1973 y 1990/From resistance to mourning: The fiction films about dictatorships made in Argentina and Chile between 1973 and 1990
Authors: Lusnich Ana Laura
Published: October 2014

Allegorical and metaphorical fiction has been a highly productive tendency in Chilean and Argentinean film-making during the recent military dictatorships in both countries. The main goal of this article is to understand the dimensions and characteristics of this tendency in recent years. Its specific goals are to identify and analyse two different variants of this tendency, each of which is definable in relation to the deployment of the narrative system and the mise-en-scène; to analyse the ways in which fiction films about dictatorships sought to denounce and resist the social norms and practices instituted by the de facto governments of Argentina and Chile.
El mito reformado: la oblicua visión oficialista en el filme mexicano Miguel Hidalgo: la historia jamás contada
Authors: Rodríguez Alan
Published: October 2014

2010 fue el año en que México hizo particular contacto con su historia, al conmemorar los episodios más heroicos de la nación. Promovido por el gobierno, el llamado Bicentenario de la Independencia de México fue un plan de festividades desarrollado ese año en todo el país para conmemorar dos siglos del inicio de la lucha armada por la Independencia, en 1810. Estos festejos además se empalmaron con los del Centenario de la Revolución Mexicana, cuyo origen data de 1910.En el marco de esa alargada fiesta patriótica, el gobierno financió filmes con temáticas nacionalistas. Uno de ellos es Hidalgo: la historia jamás contada (Antonio Serrano, 2010), que ofrece una perspectiva totalmente inusual de la vida del héroe insurgente Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. El presente artículo propone la tesis de que filmes como éste fueron financiados con el ánimo de (re)apreciar símbolos históricos ante la crisis de identidad, valores y seguridad nacional que aqueja al país. En el caso de Hidalgo… fue un intento por reimpulsar a un personaje mítico que ayudase a enaltecer nuevamente lo idealizadamente mexicano.
El mito, la propaganda y la redención en Rommel, el zorro del desierto (1951)
Authors: Barrenetxea Marañón Igor
Published: October 2014

En 1950 habían transcurrido únicamente cinco años desde el fin de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. El mundo había cambiado y se dividía en dos bloques antagonistas liderados por Estados Unidos y la Unión Soviética, respectivamente. Ese año se publicaba la exitosa biografía de unos de los militares más emblemáticos de la contienda, el mariscal de campo Erwin Rommel, escrita por el oficial británico Desmond Young. Y un año más tarde, inspirándose en esta obra, sería rodado el filme del que nos ocupamos, Rommel, el zorro del desierto (1951), de Henry Hathaway.¿Cómo era posible que el cine americano se ocupara de retratar y glorificar a un militar alemán antes que a uno propio? La intención era clara. El pasado servía, en este caso, para revitalizar la imagen de la sociedad alemana y reincorporarla a las potencias Occidentales frente al peligro soviético. No debemos olvidar que las películas son agentes de la historia. Este artículo pretende, por ello, analizar sus claves.
Reflections on some aspects of infinite groups
Authors: Fine Benjamin , Gaglione Anthony , Rosenberger Gerhard , Spellman Dennis
Published: October 2014

In this paper we survey and reflect upon several aspects of the theory of infinite finitely generated and finitely presented groups that were originally motivated by work of Gilbert Baumslag. All but the last of the topics we have chosen are all related in one way or another to the theory of limit groups and the solution of the Tarski problems. These include the residually free and fully residually free properties and the big powers condition; Baumslag doubles and extensions of centralizers; residually-𝒳 groups and extensions of results of Benjamin Baumslag and finally the relationship between CT and CSA groups.
5α-Reductase inhibitors alter steroid metabolism and may contribute to insulin resistance, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and vascular disease: a medical hypothesis
Authors: Traish Abdulmaged M. , Guay Andre T. , Zitzmann Michael
Published: October 2014

5α-reductases, a unique family of enzymes with a wide host of substrates and tissue distributions, play a key role in the metabolism of androgens, progestins, mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids. These enzymes are the rate-limiting step in the synthesis of a host of neurosteroids, which are critical for central nervous system function. Androgens and glucocorticoids modulate mitochondrial function, carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism and energy balance. Thus, the inhibition of these regulatory enzymes results in an imbalance in steroid metabolism and clearance rates, which leads to altered physiological processes. In this report, we advance the hypothesis that inhibition of 5α-reductases by finasteride and dutasteride alters not only steroid metabolism but also interferes with the downstream actions and signaling of these hormones. We suggest that finasteride and dutasteride inhibit 5α-reductase activities and reduce the clearance of glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids, potentiating insulin resistance, diabetes and vascular disease.
Existence results for the Dirichlet problem of some
degenerate nonlinear elliptic equations
Authors: Cavalheiro Albo Carlos
Published: October 2014

In this paper we are interested in the existence and uniqueness of
solutions for the Dirichlet problem associated to the degenerate
nonlinear elliptic equations

-

∑

j
=
1

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(
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=
1

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j

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$-\sum _{j=1}^n D_j[v_2(x) {\cal A}_j(x, u,
{\nabla }u)] + \sum _{j=1}^nb_j(x) v_1(x) D_ju(x) +
{\alpha } g(x) v_3(x) u(x) = f_0(x) - \sum _{j=1}^nD_jf_j(x)$

on Ω
in the setting of the weighted Sobolev spaces

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.
Modified Approach for Quantitative Texture Evaluation in Case of Transverse Textured Zirconium Alloy Tubes
Authors: Kalpana Nayak I. , Ramana Rao S. V. , Kapoor K.
Published: October 2014

The crystallographic texture of fabricated components from zirconium alloy has a significant effect on their in-service performance because of texture-dependent properties. Quantitative characterization of this texture in various zirconium alloy tube samples was conducted using pole figure technique and Kearns methodology. Corresponding texture parameters were calculated for both the methods and were found to be similar for samples with strong radial texture. However, the same was not true for samples with transverse texture because of a defocusing error coming due to the geometry of a conventional pole figure technique. Hence, a modified method for such samples by pole figure method was developed which, in addition, solved the difficulties associated with both sample preparation and experiment for the Kearns method or complete pole figure method to a great extent.
Sub-Scale Testing for Strength and Creep-Rupture of Polymers
Authors: Melo José Daniel Diniz
Published: October 2014

In the present research, a sub-scale specimen geometry was proposed for the determination of the tensile strength of polymers. Tensile strength of an aerospace epoxy (8552) was measured at various temperatures using the proposed testing approach and the measured data were compared to data measured using standard-size specimens. According to the experimental data, greater strengths were obtained using sub-scale specimens. This phenomenon was related to the lower probability of having larger flaws in smaller-size specimens. In addition, a creep-rupture master curve for the polymer was obtained by shifting strengths measured at various temperatures, according to an accelerated testing methodology (ATM) based on the time–temperature superposition principle. Ultimately, the proposed sub-scale testing approach may prove feasible for determining tensile strength and the long-term creep strength of a polymer using standard laboratory dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) equipment.
MCDM Approach for the Adoption of IFRS for SMEs: Using Taiwan as an Example
Authors: Liu Jau-Yang , Lee Mu-Shang
Published: October 2014

With the trend toward the full adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), the IFRS have recently become the only set of global accounting standards complied with internationally. Meanwhile, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) also officially announced the IFRS for small and medium-sized entities (IFRS for SMEs) in July 2009. Nations are evaluating whether to undertake selective local integration by amending the existing accounting system for SMEs, put into place a set of self-instituted standards by triggering the separation of accounting standards for SMEs and large entities, or to fully adopt the IFRS for SMEs. To effectively and accurately evaluate such convergent decisions, and at the same time solve this complex multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem, this research applies the path-dependent theory under new institutional economics to examine the demand characteristics, cost effectiveness, and evaluation criteria of financial statements prepared by SMEs. It is expected that, through this research on the transformation of accounting systems, a MCDM model on the “IFRS for SMEs” will be successfully created to reflect national conditions that serve as references for nations in their formulation of policies concerning accounting standards.
Evaluating Permeability and Infiltration Requirements for Pervious Concrete
Authors: Kevern John T.
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a unique combination of permeability, infiltration, and clogging testing results to provide background information for the specification and design of clog-resistant pervious concrete pavements. Pervious concrete cylindrical samples of various sizes and porosities were tested using a falling-head permeameter in the laboratory. The cylindrical wall effect on porosity and permeability was determined using image analysis along with testing variability. Infiltration was tested on a series of fixed void slab samples that were then clogged with compost, soil, and a compost–soil mixture. Cleaning effectiveness was measured and related to sample properties. The results show that cylinder permeability was highly variable, with 100-mm specimens producing the least variability of the two sizes tested (75 mm and 100 mm). Slab specimens with consistent cross-sectional infiltration were the most clog resistant and had the best infiltration remediation after cleaning. Samples with initial infiltration capacities greater than 750 cm/h were the most clog resistant. The best pavement performance resulted from uniform vertical permeability distribution and high initial infiltration capacity.
Integrating Nonlinear Dimensionality Reduction with Random Forests for Financial Distress Prediction
Authors: Lin Fengyi , Yeh Ching-Chiang , Lee Meng-Yuan
Published: October 2014

With the recent financial crisis, developing accurate financial distress prediction models has become more important. Due to the high-dimensionality of the input data, this study proposes to integrate nonlinear dimensionality reduction (NLDR) techniques, such as isometric feature mapping (ISOMAP) and locally linear embedding (LLE) with random forests (RF) to develop a novel prediction for financial distress. These techniques help to reduce the dimensionality of input data and enhance the performance of RF classifiers. The effectiveness of this methodology has been verified by experiments that compare it to classical linear dimensionality reduction techniques. Empirical results indicated that our hybrid approach outperforms classical linear dimensionality reduction techniques with RF. Moreover, the ISOMAP has better performance than other dimensionality reduction techniques.
Measurement of and Reverse Compensation for Spatial Position Error of Industrial Robots
Authors: Zhu Jian-Min , Qi Bei-Chuan , Li Fu-Cai , Shen Zheng-Qiang , Li Xiao-Ru
Published: October 2014

A measurement system was designed to meet high positioning accuracy requirements for trajectory-determined industrial robots in its partial workspace. Positioning error was calculated and its varying laws were analyzed by tracking the spatial position of the tool center point (TCP) of the industrial robot using a laser tracker and then transforming the relevant coordinate system. A neural network model of the difference between the commanded TCP position and the positioning error of the industrial robot was built. A reverse compensation model of the positioning error of the industrial robot was constructed based on the reverse compensation principle of positioning error, after which the commanded TCP position coordinates were revised accordingly. The experimental results show that the proposed method is feasible and effective, the average positioning error of the robot decreased to 0.028 from 3.232 mm, the standard deviation decreased to 0.100 from 2.987, and the positioning accuracy increased by more than two orders of magnitude. The proposed method is suitable for situations that involve determined trajectory, high positioning accuracy, and sealed robot control systems, and is easily incorporated into engineering applications.
The Factors Affecting the Shear Viscosity of Poly (Ethylene Terephthalate) Melt Under Reverse Pressure
Authors: Guo Zengge , Li Xin , Li Jian , Zhang Bin , Cheng Bowen
Published: October 2014

In this study, the variation in the rheological behavior of poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) melt was investigated by the capillary rheometer and counter pressure chamber where the pressure at the outlet of the capillary was higher than the normal pressure. The investigation revealed that the shear viscosity of PET decreased with increasing temperature. Noticeably, the effect of temperature on the shear viscosity displayed variation under all the conditions of shear rates and pressures, and this effect was more significant at 50 MPa or at 216 s−1. The viscous fluid activation energy of PET was measured to be 42.97–79.22 KJ·mol−1, which increased with an increase in pressure and decrease in shear rate.
Experimental Validation of Fuzzy-Tuned AWPI Controller-Based Chopper Driven PMDC Motor
Authors: Murugananth G. , Samidurai K. , Muthukrishnan S. , Vijayan S.
Published: October 2014

Chopper driven Permanent magnet DC (PMDC) motors are used to drill bone and fix the screws in orthopaedic surgeries. The drive of the motor employs a traditional or modern controller that has an inner current control loop and an outer speed control loop. As an alternative to traditional proportional integral (PI) controller-based chopper drives, this paper proposes a fuzzy-tuned anti-windup PI (AWPI) controller-based chopper for the speed control of PMDC motors used in orthopaedic surgeries. The proposed scheme was simulated using Matlab/Simulink and physically realized for validation. It is ascertained from the performance analysis that the proposed fuzzy-tuned AWPI based scheme exhibits better steady-state and transient-state responses when compared with traditional PI and AWPI controllers.
Innovative Test Technique to Evaluate “Self-Sealing” of Concrete
Authors: Gupta Rishi , Biparva Alireza
Published: October 2014

Concrete is prone to cracking when subjected to tensile forces because of its low tensile strength. The cracking potential is an even bigger concern when concrete is relatively young and is in the plastic stage. Cracks induced early can grow with time because of drying shrinkage and with application of service loads. Concrete, which is otherwise impermeable, allows for free passage of moisture and other deleterious chemicals when it is cracked, leading to reduced durability of the material and, in many cases, reduced service life of the structure. The severity of some of these issues can be alleviated because of an inherent property of concrete known as “self-sealing.” As the name suggests, “self-sealing” allows for the cracks (of limited width) to be sealed on their own over a period of time. However, currently there is no standard test technique to quantify this property of concrete and other cement-based materials, such as mortar. An innovative and straightforward technique was developed by the authors and is presented in this paper. In this technique, a standard crack is induced in concrete cylinders using a standard crack-inducing jig (SCIJ). The specimens are then inserted in special rubber sleeves and this assembly is then subjected to a constant water head. The reduction in flow through the cracked specimen is measured at a given time to compare the performance of different specimens. This technique can also be used to compare the performance of concrete mixes modified using various admixtures. This paper describes this innovative test technique and includes sample test results to explain the analysis process proposed by the authors.
A Novel Nonlinear Integrated Forecasting Model of Logistic Regression and Support Vector Machine for Business Failure Prediction with All Sample Sizes
Authors: Xu Wei , Xiao Zhi , Yang Daoli , Yang Xianglei
Published: October 2014

The aim of this work was to improve the forecasting performance of business failure prediction with all sample sizes by constructing a novel nonlinear integrated forecasting model (ANIFM) of individual linear forecasting models and individual nonlinear forecasting models. First, a new variable set including internal variables and external variables was proposed. Using scatter diagrams, all variables were placed in either the linear group or the nonlinear group. We considered logistic regression (LR) as the individual linear forecasting method to deal with each linear variable, the support vector machine (SVM) as the individual nonlinear forecasting method to deal with each nonlinear variable, and the residual SVM as the integration method to integrate the forecasts of LRs and SVMs. The proposed procedure was applied to real datasets from China. For performance comparison, single LR, SVM methods, integration forecasting models based on equal weights and on neural networks, and one based on rough set and Dempster-Shafer evidence theory (D-S theory) were also included in the empirical experiment as benchmarks. The experimental results demonstrate the superior forecasting performance of the proposed ANIFM in terms of forecasting accuracy and forecasting stability, especially with small sample sizes.
Engine Cylinder Head Temperature Measurement Based on Optical Fiber Probe
Authors: Fan Xiaojun , Jiang Qi , Li Guoxiang , Hu Yuping , Wu Qinglong , Wang Yan
Published: October 2014

A method of investigating engine cylinder head temperature is presented in this paper that uses an embedded fiber Bragg grating (FBG) with the least modification and intrusion on its operation. The temperature of cylinder head is recorded with a resolution of 0.1°C during engine operation under different working conditions. The test system has high-speed data acquisition and the FBG sensors exhibit better transient performance to dynamic loading than PT100 resistance temperature detector (RTD). Furthermore, we explore the relationship between temperature gradients obtained by the FBG's spectral width as well as the reflected waveform.
A Study on CMOD-Based Compliance Calibration Functions for Clamped Single-Edge Tension Specimens
Authors: Wang Enyang
Published: October 2014

The compliance calibration function for the clamped single-edge tension (SE(T)) specimen has not been reported in the literature. Based upon the inverse fitting of the three existing CMOD-based compliance equations, three CMOD-based compliance calibration equations are proposed for specimens with a crack length-to-width ratio 0.05 ≤ a/W ≤ 0.75. The fitting errors of the equations here employed are no greater than 1 %.
Using Specimen Geometry to Isolate Flexural and Torsional Vibration Modes During Sonic Resonance
Authors: Berke Ryan B. , Walter Mark E.
Published: October 2014

The ASTM E1875 method of sonic resonance is a convenient means of obtaining the elastic material properties of materials, particularly at high temperatures. The technique is performed by exciting a rectangular bar specimen to vibrate over a range of frequencies while measuring the amplitude of the bar’s vibrations. At specific frequencies, a local maximum in the displacement amplitude denotes either flexural or torsional resonance. The elastic and shear moduli are then computed from the first flexural and torsional resonant frequencies, respectively, as well as from the mass and dimensions of the bar. However, for certain bar geometries, the sequence in which the different resonant frequencies occur depends on the Poisson’s ratio of the material. Because the amplitudes measured during the tests do not distinguish between flexure and torsion, and because Poisson’s ratio is generally not known a priori, it is desirable to select specimen geometries for which only one sequence of frequencies is possible. This paper presents an analytical approach to determine what Poisson’s ratio would need to be in order for the first torsional frequency to always be higher than the second flexural frequency. This critical value for Poisson’s ratio is shown to be a function solely of geometry and can therefore be selected at will through the choice of length, width, and height of the bar. When the critical Poisson’s ratio is chosen to be greater than 0.5 and therefore non-physical, the first torsional frequency of the bar will always be higher than the second flexural frequency, regardless of the material composing the bar. A comparable approach is used to identify geometries that ensure that the first torsional frequency is always less than the third flexural frequency. When one selects geometries for which the sequence of the different resonant modes is known, the actual Poisson’s ratio of the material is no longer needed to compute the elastic constants.
Laboratory Study to Evaluate the Influence of Reclaimed Asphalt Content on Performance of Recycled Porous Asphalt
Authors: Frigio F. , Pasquini E. , Canestrari F.
Published: October 2014

Road-pavement maintenance and rehabilitation are more frequently performed on porous asphalt (PA) surface layers because of their inherent low durability. Such activities lead to the production of a considerable amount of reclaimed asphalt (RA), mainly from PA layers and from the heavy use of virgin non-renewable natural resources, because of the fact that the use of RA is not usually allowed in PA. In this sense, the use of milled materials from old PA wearing courses in new PA layers promotes an important cycle of re-use that should be encouraged. The experimental study aims to investigate the performance of recycled PA mixtures prepared by partly substituting virgin aggregates with selected coarse RA from a milled PA wearing course. A reference PA mixture (without RA) and six recycled PA mixtures prepared with two amounts of RA (20 % and 25 %) and three total binder contents (5.25 %, 5.50 %, and 5.75 %) were investigated in terms of compactability, durability, and water resistance. In this sense, indirect tensile strength (ITS) tests, particle loss (Cantabro) tests, semicircular bending (SCB) tests, and repeated indirect tensile tests were carried out in both dry and wet conditions. Moreover, compactability properties of the reference PA mixture and the recycled PA mixtures were compared. Results showed that recycled PA mixtures with 20 % and 25 % of RA can perform as well as the reference PA mixture in terms of moisture resistance and durability if an accurate mix design is performed. The optimum total binder content was found to increase as the amount of RA increases, because of the fact that a prominent part of the aged binder acts as “black aggregate.” Finally, on the basis of a performance-based equivalence principle, a reliable approach for a practical method able to predict the amount of “re-activated” binder within the RA is proposed.