bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of 7.5% carbon dioxide inhalation on anxiety and mood in cigarette smokers
Authors: Attwood Angela S , Ataya Alia F , Bailey Jayne E , Lightman Stafford L , Munafò Marcus R
Published: April 2014

Cigarette smoking is associated with elevated risk of anxiety and mood disorder. Using the 7.5% carbon dioxide (CO2) inhalation model of anxiety induction, we examined the effects of smoking status and abstinence from smoking on anxiety responses.

Physiological and subjective responses to CO2 and medical air were compared in smokers and non-smokers (Experiment One) and in overnight abstinent and non-abstinent smokers (Experiment Two).

CO2 induced greater increases in blood pressure in non-smokers compared with smokers ( ps < 0.043), and greater increases in anxiety ( p = 0.005) and negative affect ( p = 0.054) in non-abstinent compared with abstinent smokers.

CO2 increased physiological and subjective indices of anxiety. There were differences across smoking groups indicating that the CO2 inhalation model is a useful tool for examining the relationship between smoking and anxiety. The findings suggested that both acute smoking and acute abstinence may protect against anxious responding. Further investigation is needed in long-term heavy smokers.
Application of high-speed video extensometry for high-temperature tensile characterization of boron heat-treated steels
Authors: Jenner Frank , Walter Mark E , Iyengar Raj M , Hughes Ronald L
Published: April 2014

The increased desire to use advanced, high-strength steels for lightweight automotive structural components requires better understanding of thermo-mechanical behavior and appropriate experimental data for developing constitutive models. Thermo-mechanical studies are particularly important for understanding and optimizing hot-stamping processes which produce both complex and high-strength components. The experimental setup presented herein is capable of characterizing the thermo-mechanical behavior of such steels with strain rates up to approximately 1 s–1 and temperatures as high as 850 °C. The main parts of the apparatus are a high-speed camera, a load frame, and a box furnace. For the determination of strain, a simple image-processing program was developed. The strain was determined in three sections that span the entire gauge length of the specimen. Thus, the onset of localization could be more accurately determined. Stress versus strain data for various strain rates and temperatures are presented.
Allodynia is associated with a higher prevalence of depression in migraine patients
Authors: Louter MA , Wardenaar KJ , Veen G , van Oosterhout WPJ , Zitman FG , Ferrari MD , Terwindt GM
Published: April 2014

Introduction

There is a strong association between migraine and depression. The aim of this study is to identify migraine-specific factors involved in this association.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in a large, well-defined cohort of migraine patients ( n = 2533). We assessed lifetime depression using validated questionnaires, and diagnosed migraine based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders III-beta criteria. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted.

Results

Of the 2533 migraineurs that were eligible, 1137 (45%) suffered from lifetime depression. The following independent factors were associated with an increased depression prevalence: i) migraine-specific risk factors: high migraine attack frequency and the presence of allodynia, ii) general factors: being a bad sleeper, female gender, high BMI, being single, smoking, and a low alcohol consumption.

Conclusion

This study identified allodynia, in addition to high migraine attack frequency, as a new migraine-specific factor associated with depression.
Arthroscopic Iliopsoas Fractional Lengthening for Internal Snapping of the Hip
Authors: El Bitar Youssef F. , Stake Christine E. , Dunne Kevin F. , Botser Itamar B. , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Internal snapping of the hip is caused by the iliopsoas (IP) tendon sliding over the iliopectineal eminence or the femoral head. In many cases that require hip arthroscopic surgery, there is coexistent painful internal snapping. In such cases, fractional lengthening of the IP tendon has been suggested as an adjunctive procedure.

Purpose:

To examine the outcomes and effectiveness of arthroscopic IP tendon fractional lengthening as a solution to coexistent internal hip snapping in patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery for a labral tear and/or femoroacetabular impingement.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between June 2010 and June 2011, data were prospectively collected for all patients with internal snapping of the hip who underwent primary arthroscopic IP tendon fractional lengthening, with a minimum 2-year follow-up. All patients were interviewed by telephone with specific questions regarding the resolution or persistence of snapping. Patients were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively using the following patient-reported outcome (PRO) measures: Non-Arthritic Hip Score (NAHS), Hip Outcome Score–Activity of Daily Living (HOS-ADL) and Sport-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS), and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS). Pain was recorded on a visual analog scale (VAS), and satisfaction was measured on a scale from 0 to 10.

Results:

A total of 55 patients were included, with all PROs showing statistically significant improvement postoperatively (NAHS: 57.6 ± 20.6 preoperatively vs 80.2 ± 19.2 at 2 years; HOS-ADL: 60.9 ± 21.4 preoperatively vs 81.8 ± 20.6 at 2 years; HOS-SSS: 43.4 ± 24.6 preoperatively vs 70.0 ± 26.7 at 2 years; and mHHS: 62.3 ± 16.4 preoperatively vs 80.5 ± 18.3 at 2 years) ( P < .001 for all). Forty-five patients (81.8%) reported good/excellent satisfaction (≥7). Overall, 45 patients (81.8%) reported resolution of painful snapping. Patients who had resolution of snapping had statistically significant superior outcomes compared with those with persistent snapping using the change in the NAHS value (25.8 ± 16.1 vs 8.0 ± 22.5, respectively; P = .005), change in the HOS-ADL value (23.6 ± 18.0 vs 8.5 ± 15.2, respectively; P = .017), change in the HOS-SSS value (30.7 ± 26.9 vs 8.7 ± 23.6, respectively; P = .021), and change in the mHHS value (23.3 ± 20.1 vs 4.4 ± 9.9, respectively; P = .005).

Conclusion:

A majority of patients reported resolution of painful snapping and improvement in symptoms. Nonetheless, the rate of persistence of internal snapping at a minimum 2 years postoperatively was higher than that reported in previous studies.
Simultaneous Reconstruction of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Medial Collateral Ligament in Patients With Chronic ACL-MCL Lesions
Authors: Zhang Hangzhou , Sun Yu , Han Xiaorui , Wang Yanfeng , Wang Lin , Alquhali Ali , Bai Xizhuang
Published: April 2014

Background:

In cases of chronic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)–medial collateral ligament (MCL) lesions, nonoperative treatment of the MCL lesion may lead to chronic valgus instability and rotatory instability. The optimal management for patients who have combined ACL-MCL injuries remains controversial.

Purpose:

To present a case series of 21 patients who underwent simultaneous ACL-MCL reconstruction with a 2- to 5-year follow-up.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

From October 2007 to December 2010, a total of 21 patients with chronic ACL-MCL injuries, for which the 2 ligaments were reconstructed during the same surgical procedure, were studied. All patients were available for follow-up for at least 2 years. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective knee scores, valgus and sagittal stability, anteromedial rotatory stability, range of motion, and complications were assessed both preoperatively and postoperatively.

Results:

At follow-up, valgus and sagittal laxity were not observed in any of the patients. The mean medial knee opening was significantly reduced to 0.80 ± 0.96 mm (range, –1.2 to 2.6 mm) postoperatively compared with 8.0 ± 1.3 mm (range, 6.1 to 10.7 mm) preoperatively ( P < .01). The mean postoperative side-to-side difference measured with the KT-1000 arthrometer was reduced to 0.8 ± 0.9 mm (range, –1.2 to 2.3 mm) compared with 8.4 ± 1.6 mm (range, 6.2 to 13.2 mm) preoperatively ( P < .01). Preoperative anteromedial instability was seen in 71% of patients (15/21), whereas none of the patients had anteromedial rotatory instability at the last follow-up. The mean IKDC subjective score improved overall from 45.3 ± 12.0 (range, 28.7-69.0) preoperatively to 87.7 ± 8.2 (range, 65.5-100.0) at the last follow-up ( P < .01). Most patients (20/21) had normal or nearly normal range of motion of the knee joint; only 1 patient (5%) had a limitation of flexion of 15° compared with the contralateral knee at the last follow-up.

Conclusion:

In patients with chronic ACL-MCL lesions, simultaneous reconstruction of the ACL and MCL can significantly improve the medial, sagittal, and rotatory stability of the knee at short-term follow-up.
Becoming and Belonging in Gay Men’s Life Stories
Authors: Rowe Matthew
Published: April 2014

This article contributes to sociological studies of identity by shedding light on concrete social identification practices and placing these practices in cultural context. Gay men’s autobiographical accounts, gathered in 28 in-depth interviews, show consistent use of a long-held feature of American culture: a voluntaristic trope of personal striving through social attachments. Citing examples from stories about friendship, love, role models, city life, identity politics, and religion, the analysis shows how gay men frame their life stories using a voluntaristic model of identity. The study also provides evidence of change over time in the practices through which gay men construct social identities. Younger men report greater ease in finding gay role models, especially in professional settings, than do older men. Their accounts also support the notion that a therapeutic ethos is becoming ever more pervasive in American life.
A Measurement Invariance Analysis of the General Self-Efficacy Scale on Two Different Cultures
Authors: Teo Timothy , Kam Chester
Published: April 2014

The 10-item General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) was developed to assess an individual’s beliefs to cope with a variety of situations in life. Despite the GSES being used in numerous research from researchers in different countries and presented in different languages, little is known about the use of its validity in an Asian culture. The aim of the present study is to assess the measurement invariance of the GSES across two countries with distinctly different cultures. Results revealed that although there was full metric invariance in the two samples, only partial scalar invariance was achieved as the intercepts of 4 out of 10 items were non-invariant.
Functional Impairment in Mild Cognitive Impairment Evidenced Using Performance-Based Measurement
Authors: Puente Antonio Nicolas , Terry Douglas P. , Faraco Carlos C. , Brown Courtney L. , Miller L. Stephen
Published: April 2014

Older adults (OAs) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) are traditionally thought to have preservation of activities of daily living (ADLs). However, recent evidence suggests OAs with MCI may have difficulty completing ADLs and specifically instrumental ADLs (IADLs). The ADLs are frequently evaluated through self- or collateral report questionnaires, while performance-based measures are infrequently utilized, despite the decreased bias and increased accuracy and sensitivity associated with these instruments. This investigation compared ADLs between community-dwelling OAs with (n = 20) and without MCI (n = 30) using a self-report questionnaire (Older American Resources and Services Activities of Daily Living Scale; OARS), a collateral report questionnaire (OARS), and a performance-based measure (the Direct Assessment of Functional Status–Revised). Consistent with our hypothesis, OAs with MCI had decreased ADLs and IADLs on the performance-based measure compared to cognitively intact OAs, while there were no differences in ADLs or IADLs on self-report questionnaires or collateral report questionnaires. Our results suggest OAs with MCI have decreased ability to complete IADLs. However, this investigation suggests these deficits may not be detected by questionnaires and are more likely to be found with performance-based testing.
Validity and Reliability of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire Version in Patients With Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack Having Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Wong Adrian , Cheng Sheung-Tak , Lo Eugene S. K. , Kwan Pauline W. L. , Law Lorraine S. N. , Chan Anne Y. Y. , Wong Lawrence Ka-Sing , Mok Vincent
Published: April 2014

This study examined the validity and reliability of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire version (NPI-Q), a proxy-reported format of the interview-based NPI, in assessing neuropsychiatric symptoms in 173 patients with stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) having cognitive impairment. The NPI-Q was validated against the NPI as a gold standard. Informants took approximately 7 minutes to complete the NPI-Q. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a bias of 0.7 points, with 95% limits of agreement between −8.6 and 10.0 between the total symptom scores of the NPI and NPI-Q. The NPI-Q correlated significantly with the NPI in individual and total symptom scores and caregiver distress scores. In predicting presence of symptoms on the NPI, the NPI-Q yielded, on average, sensitivity of 74.1% and specificity of 79.5%. On the NPI-Q, informants tended to overreport symptoms in patients with less severe symptoms but underreport with increasing symptom severity. Internal consistency of the NPI-Q was acceptable (Cronbach's α = 0.756). One-week test–retest reliability of the NPI-Q was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient = .990). The NPI-Q is a valid and reliable instrument for screening neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients with stroke and TIA.
Validation of the 10/66 Dementia Research Group Diagnostic Assessment for Dementia in Arabic
Authors: Phung Kieu T. T. , Chaaya Monique , Waldemar Gunhild , Atweh Samir , Asmar Khalil , Ghusn Husam , Karam Georges , Sawaya Raja , Khoury Rose Mary , Zeinaty Ibrahim , Salman Sandrine , Hammoud Salem , Radwan Wael , Bassil Nazem , Prince Martin
Published: April 2014

Objectives:

In the North Africa and Middle East region, the illiteracy rates among older people are high, posing a great challenge to cognitive assessment. Validated diagnostic instruments for dementia in Arabic are lacking, hampering the development of dementia research in the region. The study aimed at validating the Arabic version of the 10/66 Dementia Research Group (DRG) diagnostic assessment for dementia to determine whether it is suitable for case ascertainment in epidemiological research.

Methods:

A total of 244 participants older than 65 years were included, 100 with normal cognition and 144 with mild to moderate dementia. Dementia was diagnosed by clinicians according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fourth Edition) criteria. Depression was diagnosed using the Geriatric Mental State. Trained interviewers blind to the cognitive status of the participants administered the 10/66 DRG diagnostic assessment to the participants and interviewed the caregivers. The discriminatory ability of the 10/66 DRG assessment and its subcomponents were evaluated against the clinical diagnoses.

Results:

Half of the participants had no formal education and 49% of them were depressed. The 10/66 DRG diagnostic assessment showed excellent sensitivity (92.0%), specificity (95.1%), positive predictive value (PPV, 92.9%), and low false-positive rates among controls with no formal education (8.1%) and depression (5.6%). Each subcomponent of the 10/66 DRG diagnostic assessment independently predicted dementia diagnosis. The predictive ability of the 10/66 DRG assessment was superior to that of its subcomponents.

Conclusion:

The 10/66 DRG diagnostic assessment for dementia is well suited for case ascertainment in epidemiological studies among Arabic-speaking older population with high prevalence of illiteracy.
Strategies to Support Spirituality in Health Care Communication
Authors: Reblin Maija , Otis-Green Shirley , Ellington Lee , Clayton Margaret F.
Published: April 2014

Background: Although there is growing recognition of the importance of integrating spirituality within health care, there is little evidence to guide clinicians in how to best communicate with patients and family about their spiritual or existential concerns. Methods: Using an audio-recorded home hospice nurse visit immediately following the death of a patient as a case-study, we identify spiritually-sensitive communication strategies. Results: The nurse incorporates spirituality in her support of the family by 1) creating space to allow for the expression of emotions and spiritual beliefs and 2) encouraging meaning-based coping, including emphasizing the caregivers’ strengths and reframing negative experiences. Discussion: Hospice provides an excellent venue for modeling successful examples of spiritual communication. Health care professionals can learn these techniques to support patients and families in their own holistic practice. Implications for Practice: All health care professionals benefit from proficiency in spiritual communication skills. Attention to spiritual concerns ultimately improves care.
Self-Transcendence in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Vitale Susan Ann , Shaffer Cheryl M. , Acosta Fenton Holly R.
Published: April 2014

The middle-range nursing theory of self-transcendence may be applicable to individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Full cognitive ability may not be necessary for the essential principles of this theory to be implemented. The theory can offer guidance to families and health care providers in attempting to facilitate a meaningful aging process. A case scenario of an elderly woman with Alzheimer’s disease demonstrates how family and caregivers can initiate interventions based on the theoretical concepts.
Improved flame retardancy and thermal stability of polymer/clay nanocomposites, with the incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotube as secondary filler
Authors: Pandey Priyanka , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: April 2014

In the present study, the combined effect of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) and organoclay in improving the flame retardancy and thermal stability was evaluated. A novel ternary nanocomposite (polymer/organoclay/MWNT) material based on polypropylene, organoclay and MWNTs has been developed. Higher degree of delamination of clay layers in ternary nanocomposites as compared to polymer/clay nanocomposites via x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses was evident, and also the network structure of MWNT and clay was evident. In ternary nanocomposites, the more intact network structure was also evident from the rheological assessment. Improved thermal stability and flame-retardancy characteristics were evident from thermogravimetric and cone calorimeter analyses. Also the scanning electron microscopic micrographs of char residue revealed a correlation with the cone calorimeter. The role of degree of graphitization of MWNTs on the flammability of nanocomposites was also confirmed from the analysis.
Identification of vibration level in metal cutting using undecimated wavelet transform and gray-level co-occurrence matrix texture features
Authors: Khalili Khalil , Danesh Mahdi
Published: April 2014

Vibrations are one of the obstacles to productivity of machining process since their presence reduces surface quality, dimensional accuracy and tool life. This article proposes a vision-based approach for determining vibration level in metal cutting. Vibration level of cutting tool is controlled by changing the tool overhang, and the resulting irregularity of surface texture is used as a criterion for determining the cutting tool vibration. Undecimated wavelet transform is used to decompose the surface image of the workpiece into sub-images in which the cutting tool vibration can be indicated. The texture of the preferred sub-image is analyzed using gray-level co-occurrence matrix texture features. In order to validate the proposed vision-based method, an accelerometer was attached to the shank of the cutting tool to measure vibrations in tangential direction. The experimental results showed that the combination of undecimated wavelet decomposition and gray-level co-occurrence matrix texture features can be used as a robust method for determining vibration level in the turning process.
The calculation of gear pump porting areas by mathematical means
Authors: Yates Martin K
Published: April 2014

Twin pinion gear pumps are used widely in industrial hydraulics and as fuel-delivery pumps for aero engines. The kinematics of the pumping action leads to high-flow rates into and out of the meshing gears, and at the high speeds used with aerospace fuel pumps cavitation can occur. One-dimensional ‘lumped parameter’ models are often used to analyse this type of pump. These methods rely on an accurate description of the volume trapped by the meshing teeth and the flow areas during the meshing cycle. Typically, multiple computer-aided design models have to be created to calculate these values during the meshing cycle. This paper presents a mathematical method for calculating these parameters based on a parametric definition of the gear and inlet and outlet porting. Green's theorem is used to allow line integrals around the periphery of the tooth spaces to be used to calculate the volumes and flow areas. Winding numbers are used to calculate the inflow and outflow areas that are formed by the intersection of the trapped volume and the side area porting. The method is validated against computer-aided design model data. This method is well suited for incorporation in an optimisation algorithm since the geometry is defined parametrically.
Determination method of the structure size interval of dynamically similar models for predicting vibration characteristics of the coated thin plates
Authors: Zhu Yunpeng , Luo Zhong , Zhao Xueyan , Han Qingkai
Published: April 2014

This study investigates the applicability of distorted models in predicting the frequencies and responses of coated thin plates. The significance of this study is that it provides the necessary scaling laws and structure size applicable intervals, which guide the design of distorted models. By comparing the effect of different coating thickness and different coating forms (single-sided coating and double-sided coatings), the direct use of a governing equation is employed to establish the scaling laws between the model and the prototype. Both complete and partial similarity is discussed. Then an aluminum-coated steel plate, which is commonly used, is analyzed as an example. Establishment of the structure size applicable interval is discussed, which should keep the same first-order natural characteristics (natural frequency and vibration mode). Applicable intervals of the distorted model under different orders are also obtained by using a numerical method. The applicability of the scaling laws and applicable intervals of coated thin plates are verified. The analytical results indicate that distorted models which satisfied the structure size applicable intervals can predict the characteristics of the prototype with good accuracy. This study provides a theoretical foundation for the design of scaled-down models of coated structures.
An experimental study of buffet detection on supercritical airfoils in transonic regime
Authors: Golestani Ali , Bonab Mir Biuk Ehghaghi , Soltani Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2014

Conventional buffet onset methods for a 2D supercritical airfoil, SC0410, in transonic regime for various Mach number and various angles of attack have been surveyed. The existing methods give good results for high subsonic and transonic regimes, but demand a computational procedure to detect the buffet onset. One of these methods, trailing edge pressure divergence, that have been recognized inappropriate in other studies for supercritical airfoils, shows acceptable result at least for the present supercritical airfoil. A new method has been proposed by the authors for transonic regime that is based on the physical definition of the buffet onset from the surface pressure distribution diagram. This method does not require any special calculations. The data scrutiny shows good agreement by this method in comparison with the conventional schemes.
Dynamic simulation of producer gas-engine operation
Authors: Jain Arpit , Sridhar G
Published: April 2014

In the recent times, there has been a proliferation of a producer gas-engine-based power generation systems, particularly in market segments such as small enterprises and village electrification in countries such as India. The electrical load for such application is largely of inductive type, the major ones being water pumps, appliances and industrial loads. As the demand side load varies, the gas-engine generator is expected to match the demand within the shortest possible time and without large fluctuations in speed or frequency. Unlike a natural gas-fuelled engine, where fuel gas is available at the required pressure and flow rate at all times, the producer gas-engine is coupled to a biomass gasifier, and the fuel gas, i.e. producer gas, is generated on demand. Therefore, the gasifier and gas-engine form a coupled system with one mutually driving the other. The study of the coupled or integrated system becomes intriguing, particularly during transient conditions. But at the same time, the study of the coupled system is complicated, and therefore, to simplify the study, an attempt is made in this paper to model the gas-engine generator part along with the gas-fuelling system but without considering the upstream effects of the gasifier system. The behavior of the engine during steady-state and transient conditions is predicted by assuming producer gas to be available at the required pressure upstream of the engine. The results are validated against a few experimental results, and an attempt is made to explain the mismatch in a scientific manner. The need for an integrated model of the gasifier and gas-engine system has been brought out.
Multi-objective optimization of groove casing treatment in a transonic compressor
Authors: Zhao Qingjun , Zhou Xiaoyong , Xiang Xiaorong
Published: April 2014

The paper presents a multi-objective optimization of circumferential casing grooves geometries for the NASA Rotor 37 transonic compressor. The depth normalized by the tip clearance and the width normalized by the tip chord are selected as the design variables. The stall margin and peak efficiency are used as the objective functions. The Latin Hypercube Sampling technique was used to select the sample points in the design space. Based on the numerical results of the sample points, the radial basis function network model of the artificial neural network was constructed. The NSGA-II multi-objective evolutionary algorithm is then employed to search for Pareto-optimal solutions. The leave-one-out cross validation method was also used to evaluate the precision of the radial basis function network model. The results of the optimization show the present method can be effectively used for the design of circumferential casing grooves to take account of the stall margin and efficiency. From the Pareto-optimal solutions, two groove configurations are selected and the internal flow fields are compared with the smooth casing. The effect mechanism of the circumferential casing grooves on the performance of the transonic compressor is discussed by the analysis of the flow in the blade tip region.
Nachträglichkeit: A Freudian perspective on delayed traumatic reactions
Authors: Bistoen Gregory , Vanheule Stijn , Craps Stef
Published: April 2014

The Freudian concept of Nachträglichkeit is central to the psychoanalytical understanding of trauma. However, it has not received much attention within the contemporary field of trauma studies. This paper attempts to reconstruct the logic inherent to this concept by examining Freud’s remarks on the case of Emma. Furthermore, it is argued that Nachträglichkeit offers an interesting perspective on both (a) the well-established yet controversial finding that traumatic reactions sometimes follow in the wake of non-Criterion A events (so-called minor stressors or life events) and (b) the often-neglected phenomenon of delayed-onset PTSD. These two phenomena will appear to be related in some instances. Nachträglichkeit clarifies one way in which traumatic encounters are mediated by subjective dimensions above and beyond the objective particularities of both the event and the person. It demonstrates that the subjective impact of an event is not given once and for all but is malleable by subsequent experiences.
Bounded influence function based inference in joint modelling of ordinal partial linear model and accelerated failure time model
Authors: Chakraborty Arindom
Published: April 2014

A common objective in longitudinal studies is to characterize the relationship between a longitudinal response process and a time-to-event data. Ordinal nature of the response and possible missing information on covariates add complications to the joint model. In such circumstances, some influential observations often present in the data may upset the analysis. In this paper, a joint model based on ordinal partial mixed model and an accelerated failure time model is used, to account for the repeated ordered response and time-to-event data, respectively. Here, we propose an influence function-based robust estimation method. Monte Carlo expectation maximization method-based algorithm is used for parameter estimation. A detailed simulation study has been done to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. As an application, a data on muscular dystrophy among children is used. Robust estimates are then compared with classical maximum likelihood estimates.
Mapping the hinterland: Data issues in open science
Authors: Grand Ann , Wilkinson Clare , Bultitude Karen , Winfield Alan F. T.
Published: April 2014

Open science is a practice in which the scientific process is shared completely and in real time. It offers the potential to support information flow, collaboration and dialogue among professional and non-professional participants. Using semi-structured interviews and case studies, this research investigated the relationship between open science and public engagement. This article concentrates on three particular areas of concern that emerged: first, how to effectively contextualise and narrate information to render it accessible, as opposed to simply available; second, concerns about data quantity and quality; and third, concerns about the skills required for effective contextualisation, mapping and interpretation of information.
Culture-led regeneration through the young generation: Košice as the European Capital of Culture
Authors: Hudec Oto , Džupka Peter
Published: April 2014

The European Capital of Culture (ECoC) initiative, which is aimed at highlighting the diversity of European urban cultures, has brought positive effects in many of the supported cities over the past 30 years. These include the dissemination of positive features from other ECoC models, such as city regeneration, an improved urban image, a boost to tourism and an increase in the influence of the creative sector in the city economy and culture. There are several areas of consideration (which we call “dilemmas”) within the ECoC programme, which can be summarised under the headings of cultural, economic and spatial dilemmas. Through an analysis of the Košice 2013 ECoC in this way, we identify a shift to the concept of culture-led regeneration, which is stimulated by the young organisers and entrepreneurs, who are bringing in knowledge from other European cultural centres.
Anisotropic unilateral damage with initial orthotropy: A micromechanics-based approach
Authors: Goidescu C , Welemane H , Pantalé O , Karama M , Kondo D
Published: April 2014

A micromechanics-based damage model able to describe the brittle response of initially anisotropic materials is presented. A special emphasis is put on the account of damage-induced anisotropy and unilateral behaviour related to microcracks closure effects. These both features clearly influence the inelastic deformation of microcracked materials and lead to even more complex consequences in the context of initial anisotropy. The aim of this work is then to derive a new strain-based formulation which allows representing the related interactions between all these phenomena. This is achieved through a recent two-dimensional energy-based micromechanical analysis that accounts for the fully anisotropic multilinear response of orthotropic materials weakened by arbitrarily oriented microcracks. On the other hand, the thermodynamics framework gives a standard procedure for the development of the damage evolution law. Throughout the paper, attention is put on the mathematical and thermodynamical consistency of the model to avoid difficulties usually associated to the simultaneous description of damage-induced anisotropy and unilateral effects. In addition to elastic constants, the model requires the identification of only two parameters related to damage evolution. The model has been implemented within the commercial finite-element code ABAQUS, and various numerical simulations are presented to illustrate its capabilities. Especially, evolution of the material symmetry and influence of opening-closure states of microcracks on the damage process are illustrated in the case of brittle matrix composites subjected to different loading cases (axis and off-axis loads, tension and compression, tension followed by compression).
Preservice Music Teachers’ Experiences With and Attitudes Toward Music Genres
Authors: Kruse Adam J.
Published: April 2014

With the intent of informing music teacher education this study aimed to better understand American preservice music teachers’ experiences with and attitudes toward different music genres. The researcher developed and administered a 17-question survey to undergraduate music education majors ( N = 124) at eight American universities in the Midwest and Northeast. These music education majors had predominantly classical music performing experiences, and listening activities, and they found Western art music (e.g., classical, jazz) to be most appropriate for use in school music programs. Implications for postsecondary music education curricula and acceptance requirements of programs are offered.
Pediatric Plasmablastic Lymphoma
Authors: Vaubell Jalaludin I. , Sing Yetish , Ramburan Amsha , Sewram Vikash , Thejpal Rajendra , Rapiti Nadine , Ramdial Pratistadevi K.
Published: April 2014

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is reported rarely in children. To date, 10 cases are documented in the English-language literature. This study, based on 13 biopsies from 11 HIV-positive children (9 males, 2 females), documents the clinicopathologic features of PBL. The CD4 count ranged from 9 to 800 cells/mm3. All biopsies demonstrated exclusive plasmablastic morphology; CD20 immunonegativity; and VS38c, EMA, CD31, MUM-1, CD45, and CD79a immunopositivity. B-cell monoclonality was confirmed in all biopsies. Of 3 biopsies subjected to FISH investigation, 2 had a t(8,14) translocation. Nine patients with follow-up details were treated exclusively with HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy) or with combinations of HAART, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Seven patients died. PBL histomorphology, disease stage, and treatment modalities employed were not predictive of outcome. The survival of 2 stage 4 patients for 3 and 8 years each, managed on HAART, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, however, may justify a role for combined therapeutic modalities for PBL.
Gestational Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ceauşu Mihai , Hostiuc Sorin , Sajin Maria , Roman Gheorghe , Nicodin Ovidiu , Dermengiu Dan
Published: April 2014

Gestational cancer is a dramatic situation, with a deep impact on the patient and family, with an overall incidence of 1 per 100 pregnancies. Lung cancers are extremely rare during pregnancy but have become more frequent in past years, as the mean age of pregnancy has increased. The purpose of this case report is to present a gestational lung adenocarcinoma, with metastasis in the liver and ovaries, diagnosed in the third trimester, with a fatal outcome in days after birth through cesarean section.
Cardiac Tissue Vascularization
Authors: Montgomery Miles , Zhang Boyang , Radisic Milica
Published: April 2014

Myocardial infarction results from a blockage of a major coronary artery that shuts the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to a region of the myocardium, leading to massive cardiomyocytes death and regression of microvasculature. Growth factor and cell delivery methods have been attempted to revascularize the ischemic myocardium and prevent further cell death. Implantable cardiac tissue patches were engineered to directly revascularize as well as remuscularize the affected muscle. However, inadequate vascularization in vitro and in vivo limits the efficacy of these new treatment options. Breakthroughs in cardiac tissue vascularization will profoundly impact ischemic heart therapies. In this review, we discuss the full spectrum of vascularization approaches ranging from biological angiogenesis to microfluidic blood vessels as related to cardiac tissue engineering.
Addressing Statin Adverse Effects in the Clinic
Authors: Katz Daniel H. , Intwala Sunny S. , Stone Neil J.
Published: April 2014

With the release of the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults, emphasis has been placed on using evidence-based intensity of therapy to reduce atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk, rather than focusing on goal cholesterol levels. Before initiating therapy, however, it is critical that physicians and patients discuss 4 key topics: (1) the benefit of ASCVD risk reduction, (2) medication adverse effects, (3) drug–drug interactions, and (4) patient preferences. To facilitate discussion of statin adverse effects, we present here an evidence-based review of the 5 Ms of statin adverse effects: metabolism, muscle, medication interactions, major organ effects, and memory. “Metabolism” represents the small risk of new-onset diabetes that comes with statins, which is highest in those with diabetes risk factors. “Muscle” requires discussion of the wide range of muscle symptoms that occur with statins but emphasizes that these have been no more prevalent than those experienced with placebo in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). “Medication interactions” emphasize that statins interact with numerous medications. Interaction profiles vary widely between statins, and patients should be made aware of the most common interactions with their prescription. “Major organ effects” prompt the physician to review the possibility of a transient transaminitis as well as the recent observation of rare acute kidney injury with statin use. Both are rare and do not require routine monitoring. Finally, “memory” references the recent observational data suggesting statins may contribute to memory loss and confusion, both of which have not been observed in RCTs and resolve with drug cessation. Reviewing these common effects has the possibility to strengthen the doctor–patient relationship and boost both medication adherence and patient satisfaction.
White Blood Cell Counts, Leukocyte Ratios, and Eosinophils as Inflammatory Markers in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kounis Nicholas G. , Soufras George D. , Tsigkas Grigorios , Hahalis George
Published: April 2014

Inflammation is a key feature of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations. The leukocyte count has emerged as a marker of inflammation that is widely available in clinical practice. Since inflammation plays a key role in atherosclerosis and its end results, discovering new biomarkers of inflammation becomes important in order to help diagnostic accuracy and provide prognostic information about coronary cardiac disease. In acute coronary syndromes and percutaneous coronary intervention, elevated levels of almost all subtypes of white blood cell counts, including eosinophils, monocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes, and neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and eosinophil–leukocyte ratio constitute independent predictors of adverse outcomes. Eosinophil count and eosinophil–leukocyte ratio, in particular, emerge as novel biomarkers for risk stratification in patients with coronary artery disease. Since the presence of eosinophils denotes hypersensitivity inflammation and hypersensitivity associated with Kounis syndrome, this reality is essential for elucidating the etiology of inflammation in order to consider predictive and preventive measures and to apply the appropriate therapeutic methods.
Plasma Levels of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor Type 1 and Vitronectin in Children With Cancer
Authors: Tugcu D. , Devecioglu O. , Unuvar A. , Ekmekci H. , Ekmekci O. B. , Anak S. , Ozturk G. , Akcay A. , Aydogan G.
Published: April 2014

Background:

The plasminogen activator system controls intravascular fibrin deposition; besides, it also participates in a wide variety of physiologic and pathologic processes, including cancer.

Procedure:

In this study, we examined the levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) and vitronectin in 32 newly diagnosed pediatric patients with malignancies, determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay between January 2009 and January 2010 and compared them to 35 age-matched healthy children, using SPSS 16.0 software.

Results:

The mean level of PAI-1 was 23.02 ± 15 (8.2-71.19) ng/mL and vitronectin was 83.10% ± 23.77% (12%-126%) in the tumor group. Thirty-five healthy children in the same age range were enrolled in the control group. The levels of PAI-1 and vitronectin were 23.63 ± 10.44 (11.67-58.85) ng/mL and 85% ± 20.85% (39%-126%), respectively. No significant difference was found between the 2 groups by independent sample t-test ( P = .86 and P = .69).

Conclusions:

This is a preliminary study done in children with malignancies, investigating PAI-1 and vitronectin. Further study is needed, including larger trials and tumor tissue with histopathological examination as in adults.
Cities and Sustainability
Authors: Homsy George C. , Warner Mildred E.
Published: April 2014

Polycentric theory, as applied to sustainability policy adoption, contends that municipalities will act independently to provide public services that protect the environment. Our multilevel regression analysis of survey responses from 1,497 municipalities across the United States challenges that notion. We find that internal drivers of municipal action are insufficient. Lower policy adoption is explained by capacity constraints. More policy making occurs in states with a multilevel governance framework supportive of local sustainability action. Contrary to Fischel’s homevoter hypothesis, we find large cities and rural areas show higher levels of adoption than suburbs (possibly due to free riding within a metropolitan region).
The effects of a palliative care program on antidepressant use and continuing maintenance medications in near end-of-life oncology patients (the HEALED study)
Authors: Thomas Hilary , Randolph Monica , Pruemer Jane
Published: April 2014

Rational

The use of antidepressants and maintenance medications for cancer patients in a palliative care setting is controversial. The effectiveness of antidepressants and consequences of discontinuing maintenance medications are unknown in this population.

Objective

Compare the quality of life of patients taking and not taking antidepressants at entry to a palliative care clinic, and to observe maintenance medication use in this population, along with consequences of stopping them.

Methods

Prospective, monthly review of medications, quality of life, and hospitalizations were recorded from oncology patients that attended a palliative care clinic. In addition, a retrospective chart review of medications and hospitalizations of oncology patients that did and did not attend a palliative care clinic was performed.

Results

Forty-three prospective patients were enrolled. Patients had similar quality of life whether or not they were taking antidepressants ( p = 0.52). Number of maintenance medications at entry and at final evaluation did not change ( p = 0.45). No hospitalizations were caused by discontinuation of maintenance medications. QOL of patients did not decline after coming to the clinic based on the baseline and second FACT-G questionnaires ( p = 0.84). Fifty-six patients were included in the retrospective portion of this study. The non-palliative care patients had higher proportions of maintenance medications and rates of hospitalizations when compared to the palliative care patients.

Conclusion

Quality of life is essentially the same between palliative care patients, whether they are receiving antidepressants or not.
Galectin-3 and matrix metalloproteinase-9: Perspective in management of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Eisa Nada H , Ebrahim Mohamed A , Ragab Maha , Eissa Laila A , El-gayar Amal M
Published: April 2014

Aim

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer in men and the seventh in women. HCC varies widely in incidence through the world, with rising incidence in Egypt. This study aimed to estimate the serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and its substrate galectin-3 in order to evaluate their diagnostic accuracy and their relation to HCC-related clinical features.

Methods

For this purpose, serum levels of these biochemical markers were assessed in 50 HCC patients, 30 cirrhotic patients in addition to 10 healthy subjects as a control group using enzyme linked immune-sorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

In the present study, circulating level of galectin-3, MMP-9 increased significantly in HCC as compared to the control group ( P = 0.044 and 0.04, respectively). However, no significant difference was observed between cirrhotic and HCC patients ( P = 0.231 and 0.193, respectively). Our study found that HCC patients with metastatic spread had a significant elevation of both serum galectin-3 and MMP-9 levels ( P = 0.028 and <0.0001, respectively). In addition, galectin-3 level significantly increased in HCC patients with poor prognosis suffering from portal vein invasion ( P = 0.014). Moreover, MMP-9 increased significantly with increasing stage of Barcelona-Clinic Liver Cancer Group diagnostic and treatment strategy ( P = 0.01).

Conclusion

MMP-9 and galectin-3 could be used as a guide for prognosis of HCC since they may play a role in HCC progression and metastasis. However, they are not useful markers for HCC diagnosis.