bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Need for Modeling and Simulation to Design Clinical Investigations in Children
Authors: Jadhav Pravin R. , Kern Steven E.
Published: September 2010

Recent legislation in the United States and Europe has resulted in an increased number of clinical trials of pharmaceutical agents in children. Creating a well‐designed clinical trial that can be successfully completed is a challenging task, particularly as the study population includes younger and smaller children. Although there are some established principles for initially estimating appropriate doses of pharmaceutical agents in children based on known effective doses in adults, these rules are inadequate as the sole basis for designing a clinical trial in children. Factors such as maturation of metabolizing enzymes, relative physical maturation of the child, and altered absorption because of physiological differences in adults and children may contribute to alterations in the dose‐exposure relationship. To account for the impact of these potential factors on a clinical trial, the use of modeling and simulation is necessary to anticipate the influence these variables can have on the desired clinical question to be addressed. The examples presented in this article highlight the principle that modeling and simulation is critical for adequately designing pediatrics trials.
Pharmacometrics 2020
Authors: Gobburu Jogarao V. S.
Published: September 2010

This special issue of the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology is dedicated to pharmacometrics, covering topics related to methodological research, application to decisions, standardization, PhRMA survey, and growth strategy. Innovative methodological and technological advances in analyzing disease, drug, and trial data have equipped pharmacometricians with the know‐how to influence high‐level decisions, which in turn creates more pharmacometric opportunities. Pharmacometrics is revolutionizing drug development and regulatory decision making. To sustain the success and growth of this field, we need to up the ante. Strategic goals for pharmacometric groups in industry, regulatory agencies, and academia are proposed in this report. These goals should be of significance to all stakeholders who have a vested interest in drug development and therapeutics. The future of pharmacometrics depends on how well we all can deliver on the strategic goals.
Model‐Based Drug Development Survey Finds Pharmacometrics Impacting Decision Making in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Stone Julie A. , Banfield Christopher , Pfister Marc , Tannenbaum Stacey , Allerheiligen Sandy , Wetherington Jeffrey D. , Krishna Rajesh , Grasela Dennis M.
Published: September 2010

During the past decade, the pharmaceutical industry has seen the increasing application of pharmacometrics approaches in drug development. However, the full potential of incorporating model‐based approaches in drug development and its impact on decision making has not been fully realized to date. In 2009, a survey on model‐based drug development (MBDD) was conducted (1) to further understand the current state of MBDD in the pharmaceutical industry and (2) to identify opportunities to realize the full potential of MBDD. Ten large and mid‐sized pharmaceutical companies provided responses to this survey. The results indicate that MBDD is achieving broad application in early and late development and is positively affecting both internal and regulatory decisions. Senior leadership (vice president and higher) within the companies indicated widely accepted utility for dose selection and gaining acceptance for study design and regulatory interactions but limited acceptance in discovery and commercial/pipeline decisions. Mounting appreciation for the impact of MBDD on internal and regulatory decision‐making bodes well for the future of the pharmacometric discipline and the growth of opportunities to realize the full potential of MBDD.
Attitudes Toward Online Social Connection and Self-Disclosure as Predictors of Facebook Communication and Relational Closeness
Authors: Ledbetter Andrew M. , Mazer Joseph P. , DeGroot Jocelyn M. , Meyer Kevin R. , Yuping Mao  , Swafford Brian
Published: September 2010

This investigation tested a theoretical model of communication behavior with specific Facebook friends, such that attitudes toward (a) online self-disclosure, and (b) online social connection, predict Facebook communication frequency and, in turn, relational closeness. Participants included both undergraduates and older adults. Results generally supported the model, with the interaction effect between self-disclosure and social connection directly predicting Facebook communication and indirectly predicting relational closeness. For both dependent variables, online social connection was a positive predictor at low and moderate levels of online self-disclosure, but high levels reduced the association to nonsignificance. One implication of these results was that high-warrant information may discourage those with social anxiety from social network site communication.
“There Is No Such Thing as an Accident,” Especially When People Are Drunk
Authors: Bègue Laurent , Bushman Brad J. , Giancola Peter R. , Subra Baptiste , Rosset Evelyn
Published: September 2010

The intentionality bias is the tendency for people to view the behavior of others as intentional. This study tests the hypothesis that alcohol magnifies the intentionality bias by disrupting effortful cognitive abilities. Using a 2 × 2 balanced placebo design in a natural field experiment disguised as a food-tasting session, participants received either a high dose of alcohol (target BAC = .10%) or no alcohol, with half of each group believing they had or had not consumed alcohol. Participants then read a series of sentences describing simple actions (e.g., “She cut him off in traffic”) and indicated whether the actions were done intentionally or accidentally. As expected, intoxicated people interpreted more acts as intentional than did sober people. This finding helps explain why alcohol increases aggression. For example, intoxicated people may interpret a harmless bump in a crowded bar as a provocation.
‘‘At least with cheating there is an attempt at monogamy’’: Cheating and monogamism among undergraduate heterosexual men
Authors: Anderson Eric
Published: September 2010

In this qualitative research, I first use hegemony theory to describe the cultural forces that position monogamy as the only privileged form of committed sexual relationship coupling available to undergraduate heterosexual men. I then interview 40 heterosexual male students for their experience with monogamy and cheating, finding that the hegemonic mechanisms of subordination and stratification that stigmatize nonmonogamy consequently result in an absence of consideration of the problems associated with monogamy. I use cognitive dissonance theory to explain participants’ desires for simultaneously wanting monogamy and nonmonogamy, calling this dissonance ‘the monogamy gap.’ Data suggest that participants who cheat do so not because of lost love, but instead cheating represents an attempt to rectify conflicting desires for monogamy and recreational sex.
Relational efficacy beliefs and relationship quality within coach-athlete dyads
Authors: Jackson Ben , Grove J. Robert , Beauchamp Mark R.
Published: September 2010

The primary purpose of this study was to examine the role of efficacy beliefs in predicting perceptions of relationship quality (i.e., closeness, commitment, and complementarity) within coach—athlete dyads. Data from 63 youth athletes and their coaches were analyzed using actor—partner interdependence models and revealed actor effects for self-efficacy on complementarity (for both dyad members) and closeness (for coaches only). A number of actor and partner effects emerged for other-efficacy and relation-inferred self-efficacy. However, the magnitude, and in some cases the direction, of these relationships were moderated by the person’s dyadic role. The findings are discussed with respect to interdependence in coach—athlete relationships.
Hanging out: Features of urban children’s peer social networks
Authors: Neal Jennifer W.
Published: September 2010

This paper explores associations between two demographic characteristics (i.e., sex and grade level) and the peer network features (i.e., size, density, and demographic homophily) of 144 third through eighth grade students (ages 8—15) in an urban, US elementary school with considerable diversity in race and socioeconomic status. The results offer only partial support for the two cultures theory, as sex differences in network size attenuated with increasing grade levels. The findings also highlight developmental trends, including a curvilinear effect of grade on network density and grade-level increases in cross-sex and same-race relationships. Finally, the paper includes a discussion of the importance of opportunity structures for, and the joint consideration of sex and developmental influences on, children’s peer social networks.
Rational actors: Channel selection and rational choices in romantic conflict episodes
Authors: Frisby Brandi N. , Westerman David
Published: September 2010

The proliferation of communication technologies creates many questions about these tools’ relational uses and effects. Rational Actor Theory posits that individuals consider the benefits and costs of using a channel for communicating a particular message. This study applied Rational Actor Theory to individuals’ ( N = 129) channel choices during conflict episodes in their romantic relationships. Results indicated that partners using both integrating and avoiding conflict styles prefer face-to-face channels, while people using dominating styles prefer computer-mediated channels. Channel choice for conflict was not predicted by relationship length, type, or satisfaction. Only integrating and obliging conflict styles predicted relationship satisfaction.
Implicit priming of embodied cognition on human motor intention understanding in dyads in love
Authors: Ortigue Stephanie , Patel Nisa , Bianchi-Demicheli Francesco , Grafton Scott T.
Published: September 2010

Recent theories of embodied cognition suggest that congruence between observed actions and integrated templates of self-related motor experiences facilitates intention understanding of significant others. We tested this hypothesis in 60 participants using response latency measures and a motor intention inference task, which involved video clips of actions performed either by themselves, their beloved partner, or by acquaintances or strangers (as controls). Results show significantly faster reaction times when participants had to understand the intentions of themselves and their significant others, especially if they reported being passionately in love with their significant others. These findings provide an account for facilitation effects of embodied cognition on intention understanding among dyads in love.
Long-Term Survival of High Tibial Osteotomy for Medial Compartment Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Authors: Hui Catherine , Salmon Lucy J. , Kok Alison , Williams Heidi A. , Hockers Niels , van der Tempel Willem M. , Chana Rishi , Pinczewski Leo A.
Published: September 2010

Background: The management of degenerative arthritis of the knee in the younger, active patient presents a challenge to the orthopaedic surgeon. Surgical treatment options include high tibial osteotomy (HTO), unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, and total knee arthroplasty.

Purpose: To examine the long-term survival of closing wedge HTO in a large series of patients up to 19 years after surgery.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Four hundred fifty-five consecutive patients underwent lateral closing wedge HTO for medial compartment osteoarthritis between 1990 and 2001. Between 2008 and 2009, patients were contacted via telephone, and assessment included incidence of further surgery, current body mass index (BMI), Oxford Knee Score, and British Orthopaedic Association Patient Satisfaction Scale. Failure was defined as the need for revision HTO or conversion to unicompartmental knee arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty. Survival analysis was completed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results: High tibial osteotomy survival was determined in 413 patients (91%). Of the 397 remaining living patients at the time of final review, 394 (99%) were contacted for follow-up via telephone interview. The probability of survival for HTO at 5, 10, and 15 years was 95%, 79%, and 56%, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis showed that age under 50 years ( P = .001), BMI less than 25 ( P = .006), and ACL deficiency ( P = .03) were associated with better odds of survival. Mean Oxford Knee Score was 40 of 48 (range, 17-48). Overall, 85% of patients were enthusiastic or satisfied, and 84% would undergo HTO again at a mean 12 years of follow-up.

Conclusion: High tibial osteotomy can be effective for periods longer than 15 years; however, results do deteriorate over time. Age less than 50 years, normal BMI, and ACL deficiency were independent factors associated with improved long-term survival of HTO.
NSM CFRP composites for effective tension zone of reinforced concrete members subjected to wet-dry cycling
Authors: Kim Yail J , Rahman Arifur
Published: September 2010

This article presents an experimental study concerning near-surface mounted (NSM) carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites for the effective tension zone of a reinforced concrete beam. The test specimen consists of a concrete prism with one No. 3 reinforcing steel bar, representing the effective tension zone, and is preloaded to 50% of the cracking load of the specimens to simulate existing concrete structures in service conditions. A total of 16 specimens, 11 of which are retrofitted with NSM CFRP strips, are monotonically loaded in axial tension until failure takes place. Of particular interest is the interaction between the concrete and the reinforcement at service load levels when exposed to wet—dry environment. Test parameters include the effect of wet—dry cycles, the type of bonding agents (epoxy adhesive and cement-grout), the number of CFRP strips, and the size of groove for the composite. The specimens with epoxy adhesive show better performance than those with cement-grout, while the contribution of the geometrical properties (e.g., groove size and number of CFRP strips) to the behavior of the retrofitted specimens is not significant. The variation of a tension stiffening index and the effective axial stiffness is studied to examine the effects of wet—dry cycles on the serviceability of the retrofitted specimens.
Mechanical properties of PTFE coated fabrics
Authors: Yingying Zhang  , Qilin Zhang  , Chuanzhi Zhou  , Ying Zhou
Published: September 2010

This article presents the mechanical properties of PTFE coated fabrics used in Central axis roof of Shanghai Expo. First, groups of off-axial and biaxial tensile tests are carried out, and the failure mechanism and strength criterion are studied. Then, on-axial samples are tested under different strain rates, and the relationship between strain rates, tensile strength, and strain at break are determined. Finally, the effects of temperature on mechanical properties are studied. Results show that PTFE coated fabrics are typically orthotropic and its strength can be predicted by the Tsai—Hill strength criterion. The tensile strength and strain at break show linear with the strain rate’s logarithm. The temperature has little effect on the mechanical properties and the temperature reduction factor is proposed for the design and analysis.
Wood-plastic composites: influence of wood flour chemical modification on the mechanical performance
Authors: Farsi Mohammad
Published: September 2010

This study deals with the effect of chemical modification of wood flour by components including alkaline, silane, acrylic acid and benzoyl chloride, and PP-g-MA coupling agent concentration (0 and 3 wt%) on the mechanical performance of WPCs. The samples were fabricated by melt compounding in an internal mixer and then injection molding. Tensile, flexural, and Izod impact test of modified composites were performed and compared by net polypropylene and unmodified samples. The results showed that the highest tensile and flexural resistance was observed in composites modified with alkaline and including coupling agent. Modified composites had lower impact strength than unmodified ones. Simultaneous use of chemical modification and coupling agent on mechanical properties had synergic effect. Therefore, chemical modification of wood flour improved interfacial adhesion and so increased the mechanical performance of these composites.
Study on mechanical properties and thermal stability of polypropylene/hemp fiber composites
Authors: Pengfei Niu  , Baoying Liu  , Xiaoming Wei  , Xiaojun Wang  , Jie Yang
Published: September 2010

Polypropylene and hemp fiber composites were prepared by melt compounding, followed by injection molding. Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (PP—MAH), maleic anhydride grafted styrene—(ethylene-co-butylene)—styrene copolymer (SEBS—MAH) and maleic anhydride grafted Poly(ethylene octane) (POE—MAH) were used as compatilizer to improve the fiber/matrix interactions. The composites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), mechanical testing and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The mechanical properties of polypropylene/hemp fiber composites (fiber loading 30 wt%) at different compatilizer content were analyzed. In comparison to unmodified system, the incorporation of compatilizer (PP—MAH, SEBS—MAH, POE—MAH) can significantly enhance the fiber/matrix adhesion which resulted in higher stiffness and mechanical properties of the composites. The combination of PP—MAH and SEBS—MAH (or POE—MAH) elastomer can be used to optimize the mechanical properties of the composites. The tensile strength, flexural strength, notched and unnotched impact strengths of the composite comprising PP—MAH (5 phr) and POE—MAH (6 phr) were 22%, 8%, 24%, and 82% higher, respectively, than that of unmodified system. Furthermore, the addition of hemp fiber shifted the start of the degradation process and the maximum decomposition temperatures of the components to higher temperatures.
Prospective Study of the Modified Atkins Diet in Combination With a Ketogenic Liquid Supplement During the Initial Month
Authors: Kossoff Eric H. , Dorward Jennifer L. , Turner Zahava , Pyzik Paula L.
Published: September 2010

The modified Atkins diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate treatment for intractable childhood epilepsy. As data suggest that a stricter diet onset can be more effective, we added a ketogenic supplement to the modified Atkins diet during its initial month. Thirty children with intractable epilepsy were prospectively started on the modified Atkins diet in combination with a daily 400-calorie KetoCal ® shake. At 1 month, 24 (80%) children had >50% seizure reduction, of which 11 (37%) had >90% seizure reduction. There was no significant loss of efficacy during the second month after KetoCal® was discontinued. The use of this ketogenic supplement increased daily fat intake and thus the ketogenic ratio (1.8:1 versus 1.0:1 in the modified Atkins diet alone, P = .0002), but did not change urinary or serum ketosis. The addition of a ketogenic supplement to the modified Atkins diet during its initial month appears to be beneficial.
Cryopreservation of Cell/Hydrogel Constructs Based on a New Cell-assembling Technique
Authors: Xiaohong Wang  , Paloheimo Kaija-Stiina , Huirong Xu  , Chang Liu
Published: September 2010

Organ manufacturing is a promising method to replace failing complex organs. In this study, a new cell cryopreservation technique was developed with cryoprotectants being directly incorporated into the cell/hydrogel construct according to predesigned structures and then subjected to a special freezing/thaw process. The hydration of the gelatin/alginate hydrogel was greatly increased while the eutectic temperature was decreased by the adding glycerol. The addition of dextran-40 was found to also effectively improve the cell survival when incorporated with glycerol. The most favorable cryoprotectant concentration was 2.5% glycerol with 5% dextran-40 in a gelatin/alginate hydrogel. Under these conditions, the cell viability in the construct was >95%. Microscopic observations, MTT analysis, hematoxylin and eosin staining indicated that the cells proliferated immediately after thawing. The cells in the gelatin/alginate hydrogel with both glycerol and dextran-40 had proliferated more than with only glycerol or dextran-40 alone. This approach can be adapted for use in cell assembly in high-throughput drug screening and complex organ manufacturing areas.
Service-Learning Experiences of College Freshmen, Community Partners, and Consumers With Disabilities
Authors: Muwana Florence C. , Gaffney Janet S.
Published: September 2010

A service-learning component was embedded as the centerpiece in the Culture of Disability Across the Lifespan course, designed for students’ exploration of issues related to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society. Participants included 19 university freshmen, 6 representatives of community agencies, and 3 consumers with disabilities. Data from focus-group discussions and interviews were triangulated with knowledge surveys, satisfaction questionnaires, reflections, and project artifacts of students. The four projects varied in their quality of implementation along four dominant themes: expectations, communication, impact, and logistics. Comparison of the students’ perceptions to those of the community partners was particularly robust. The results are illustrated by descriptions of the four projects along the dominant themes. Specific implications for future implementation of service learning in special education course work and research are outlined.
Using Enhanced Podcasts to Augment Limited Instructional Time in Teacher Preparation
Authors: Kennedy Michael J. , Hart Juliet E. , Kellems Ryan O.
Published: September 2010

Teacher education programs are limited in terms of available face-to-face instructional time for preparing general education teacher candidates to work with students with exceptionalities. Given this constraint, developing innovative use of technologies may assist in meeting the demand for highly qualified teachers for such students. In this research study, enhanced podcasts (images displayed in time with audio) were produced using Mayer’s cognitive theory of multimedia learning to deliver selected uncovered course content. Two randomly assigned groups of undergraduate teacher education candidates interacted with either audio podcasts or enhanced podcasts across two experiments. Researchers measured recall and higher order application ability of students to determine which podcast method resulted in higher scores. Participants interacting with the enhanced podcasts outperformed their audio-only counterparts on three of four measures of recall and application. Implications for teacher education programming regarding how to better prepare general education teachers to meet the needs of students with disabilities by utilizing this type of technology will be described.
A Comparison of On-Campus and Distance Teacher Education Programs in Severe Disabilities
Authors: McDonnell John , Jameson J. Matt , Riesen Tim , Polychronis Shamby , Crockett Margaret A. , Brown Brigid E.
Published: September 2010

Distance teacher education programs employing videoconferencing technology and other online teaching tools are increasingly being used to prepare teachers of students with disabilities in rural and remote communities. This evaluation study compared the effectiveness of a distance and an on-campus teacher education program for teachers of students with severe disabilities. Teacher candidates in the distance cohort received the same program of study as candidates in the on-campus program except that the coursework was delivered through videoconferencing technology instead of traditional, face-to-face instruction. Instructional activities for candidates in both cohorts were supported through online instructional tools (i.e., Web CT) and on-site field supervision from university clinical faculty members and cooperating professionals from the local school districts. A variety of measures were used to assess candidates’ acquisition of content and their ability to apply the knowledge and skills acquired through the program of study. The results indicate that there were no significant differences between students in the distance and on-campus teacher education cohorts on the measures of learning. The implications of the findings for further research are discussed.
A Literature Review of Empirical Studies of Philanthropy
Authors: Bekkers René , Wiepking Pamala
Published: September 2010

The authors present an overview of the academic literature on charitable giving based on a literature review of more than 500 articles. They structure their review around the central question of why people donate money to charitable organizations. They identify eight mechanisms as the most important forces that drive charitable giving: (a) awareness of need; (b) solicitation; (c) costs and benefits; (d) altruism; (e) reputation; (f) psychological benefits; (g) values; (h) efficacy. These mechanisms can provide a basic theoretical framework for future research explaining charitable giving.
Sport and the fight against HIV/AIDS in Zambia: A ‘partnership approach’?
Authors: Lindsey Iain , Banda Davies
Published: September 2010

Sport is being increasingly recognized for the contribution it can make to the Millennium Development Goals and, in particular, the response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. In both sport-for-development and HIV/AIDS sectors, partnerships are advocated as an effective approach to achieving policy goals. This exploratory study examined the nature of partnerships involving non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that use sport as a tool for HIV/AIDS prevention in Zambia. Sensitized by development literature, the study utilized an inductive, qualitative research approach primarily centred on interviews with key stakeholders from a variety of governmental and non-governmental agencies both based in Zambia and supporting sport-for-development programmes from overseas. A large number of different partnerships were identified by interviewees that varied significantly in terms of their purpose and form. Within the Zambian sport-for-development sector, organizational fragmentation and competition for resources provided by overseas agencies inhibited the development of partnerships aimed at policy co-ordination across the whole sector. Productive bilateral partnerships existed between sport-for-development NGOs and between these organizations and health-based NGOs. However, the sport-development sector lacked integration into more strategic partnerships that addressed HIV/AIDS policy issues. Incremental progress is identified as the key to future improvements in partnerships involving sport-for-development NGOs. Further research that examines how partnerships influence the delivery of programmes within specific communities would also enhance understanding of the contribution of sport to development efforts.
Piezoceramic Composite Actuators for Flow Control in Low Reynolds Number Airflow
Authors: Bilgen Onur , De Marqui Carlos , Kochersberger Kevin B. , Inman Daniel J.
Published: September 2010

The research presented here employs solid-state actuators for flow separation delay or for forced attachment of separated flow seen in airfoils at low Reynolds numbers. To reduce separation, periodic excitation to the flow around the leading edge of the airfoil is induced by Macro-Fiber Composite actuated clamped-free unimorph benders. An electromechanical model of the unimorph is briefly presented and parametric study is conducted to aid the design of a unimorph to output high deformation at a desired frequency. The optimum frequency and amplitude for lift improvement at post-stall angles are identified experimentally. Along with aerodynamic force and structural displacement measurements, helium bubble flow visualization is used to verify existing separated flow, and the attached flow induced by flow control. The lift enhancement induced by several flow control techniques is compared. A symmetric and non-uniform (3D) flow excitation results in the maximum lift enhancement at post-stall region at the lowest power consumption level. A maximum lift coefficient increase of 27.5% (in the post-stall region) is achieved at 125 Hz periodic excitation, with the 3D symmetric actuation mode at 5 m/s and the reduced frequency of 3.78. Cl, max is increased 7.6% from the baseline.
Lightweight High Voltage Electronic Circuits for Piezoelectric Composite Actuators
Authors: Bilgen Onur , Kochersberger Kevin B. , Inman Daniel J. , Ohanian Osgar J.
Published: September 2010

The purpose here is to enable peak-to-peak actuation of piezocomposite devices to perform shape control of structures, specifically bimorph variable-camber control surfaces on small aircraft. One of the major drawbacks in implementing control with piezocomposite actuation is its asymmetry in the positive and negative voltage directions. To remedy this situation, a novel, solid-state electrical circuit employing diodes and resistors is proposed. The circuit allows a single bipolar amplifier to control a bimorph composed of two piezoceramic composite actuators known as Macro-Fiber Composite (MFC). The MFCs have an asymmetric actuation range of -500 to 1500 V; hence an MFC bimorph with conventional serial or parallel electrical connection limits the actuation to the -500 to 500 V range. The proposed circuit allows the division of the input voltage so that: (1) The MFC that is in extension receives 1500 V, and (2) The MFC that is in compression receives -500 V. The circuit also allows the actuation in the opposite direction without any physical changes (i.e., not using any electromechanical switches) The input-output relationship of the circuit is characterized experimentally. An MFC bimorph is used to further demonstrate the capability of the circuit.
Optimization Criteria for Optimal Placement of Piezoelectric Sensors and Actuators on a Smart Structure: A Technical Review
Authors: Gupta Vivek , Sharma Manu , Thakur Nagesh
Published: September 2010

This article presents in a unified way, the various optimization criteria used by researchers for optimal placement of piezoelectric sensors and actuators on a smart structure. The article discusses optimal placement of piezoelectric sensors and actuators based upon six criteria: (i) maximizing modal forces/moments applied by piezoelectric actuators, (ii) maximizing deflection of the host structure, (iii) minimizing control effort/maximizing energy dissipated, (iv) maximizing degree of controllability, (v) maximizing degree of observability, and (vi) minimizing spill-over effects. Optimal piezoelectric sensor and actuator locations on beam and plate structures for each criterion and modes of interest are presented in a tabular form. This technical review has two objectives: (i) practicing engineers can pick the most suitable philosophy for their end application and (ii) researchers can come to know about potential gaps in this area.
Analysis of Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Systems with Non-linear Circuits Using the Harmonic Balance Method
Authors: Rupp Cory J. , Dunn Martin L. , Maute Kurt
Published: September 2010

There is substantial promise in the use of piezoelectric energy harvesting systems to power electronics and devices through the conversion of ambient vibrations into electrical energy. Accurately predicting the energy harvesting capability in these systems is of paramount importance as the harvesting structure and the associated circuit must be ‘tuned’ in concert to the signature of the ambient vibrations. Here, we develop a numerical simulation methodology for piezoelectric harvesting systems that allows for high-fidelity finite element models of the harvester electromechanics as well as realistic non-linear circuits models. Our approach synthesizes conventional harmonic finite element analysis and a harmonic balance approach that accounts efficiently for the non-linear circuit behavior, bypassing the need for computationally expensive time marching schemes. The proposed methodology solves, via an iterative residual reduction scheme, for the coupled electrical output and structural dynamics of the piezoelectric harvesting structure. The proposed method is well suited for integration into model-predictive design methods. By numerical examples we illustrate the capability of the proposed approach to predict previously unreported coupling phenomena between the non-linear circuit response and piezoelectric structural behavior. The increased accuracy in the circuit model and flexibility of this method over current models outweighs the increased numerical costs.
Structural Health Monitoring of Immersed Structures by Means of Guided Ultrasonic Waves
Authors: Rizzo Piervincenzo , Han Jian-Gang , Ni Xiang-Lei
Published: September 2010

Guided ultrasonic waves (GUWs) are increasingly considered in the nondestructive evaluation and structural health monitoring of engineering systems that benefit from built-in transduction, moderately large inspection ranges, and high sensitivity to small flaws. Sometimes, owing to the kind of system being inspected, a non-contact approach for the generation and detection of GUWs is desired. This article presents an initial study of the feasibility of using a hybrid laser/immersion transducer system for the detection of damage in submerged structures. A pulsed laser was used for the generation of stress waves in an aluminum plate immersed in water, which were detected by a pair of conventional immersion transducers. The detected time waveforms were processed using the joint time-frequency analysis of the Gabor wavelet transform to extract information about the velocity and the attenuation of the propagating modes. Damage was simulated by devising a rectangular notch and a small circle on the face of the plate exposed to the probing system. The study shows promising results and may pave the road toward an innovative approach to the non-contact inspection/monitoring of underwater structures.
Ugly Music
Authors: Schmidt Margaret
Published: September 2010

Listening to music from a variety of national, ethnic, and historical traditions may help adolescents develop respect for individual differences, particularly when they are challenged to confront music that has little immediate musical appeal for them. This article outlines strategies for two sample listening lessons, using Serbo-Croatian gusle epics as an example of seemingly “ugly” music. Information about the gusle tradition is given, along with suggested resources for teaching these lessons. One lesson helps students evaluate music using descriptive rather than judgmental words, whereas the other promotes discussion of music’s cultural and personal meanings by comparing and contrasting very familiar and very unfamiliar music. In addition, suggestions are provided for legally downloading Internet videos for classroom use.
The Lived Experiences of Children and Adolescents With End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Nicholas David B. , Picone Gail , Selkirk Enid K.
Published: September 2010

Relatively little is known about how children perceive and manage end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in daily life. To address this gap in the literature, the experiences and perceptions of children with ESRD were examined in this study. Study design comprised ethnographic interviews with 25 children and adolescents ages 7 to 18 years. Semistructured interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and subjected to content analysis. Participants received a range of ESRD treatments including transplantation and dialysis. Findings indicate that ESRD has a profound impact on children. They described a range of challenges and experiences including not feeling “normal”; developing ESRD knowledge; frequent absence from school; gaining responsibility for ESRD care; relying on family, friends, and health care providers; and adjusting despite adversity. These findings depict a multifaceted, dynamic perspective engendered in tensions as children and adolescents grapple with adversity yet experience personal growth and resiliency. Implications and recommendations for clinical practice and research are discussed.
Phenolic Acids and Antioxidant Activities in Husk of Different Thai Rice Varieties
Authors: Butsat S. , Siriamornpun S.
Published: September 2010

This study was designed to investigate the free and bound phenolic acids as well as their antioxidant activities in husk of 12 Thai rice varieties consisting of pigmented rice and normal rice. The pigmented rice husk gave higher free total phenolic contents than normal rice husk. However, there was no significant difference in bound total phenolic contents between pigmented rice and normal rice husks. Ferulic and p-coumaric acids were the major phenolic acids in the free fraction of pigmented rice husks, whereas vanillic acid was the dominant phenolic acid in the free fraction of normal rice husks. On the other hand, p-coumaric acid was highly found in bound form of both pigmented and normal rice husks. The antioxidant activity of husk extracts was positively correlated with the total free phenolics content and individual of phenolic acids especially ferulic acid. On the basis of this study, it is suggested that the rice husk could be a potential phenolic acid source and may therefore offer an effective source of natural antioxidant. Our findings provide valuable information on phenolic acids composition and antioxidant activity of husk for further food application.
Summer Pruning: An Ecological Alternative to Postharvest Calcium Treatment to Improve Storability of High Quality Apple cv. ‘Reinette du Canada’
Authors: Guerra M. , Casquero P.A.
Published: September 2010

Two strategies, summer pruning and postharvest Ca treatment, were studied in apple (Malus domestica Borkh) cv. ‘Reinette du Canada’ in order to analyze its effect on the fruit quality during storage. Summer pruning and Ca treatment reduced external and internal bitter-pits; so after 180 days of storage, both treatments decreased external bitter-pit by 10.0% and 16.7%, respectively. Summer pruning influenced color, firmness, total soluble solids and titratable acidity (TA) of fruit during storage, whereas Ca treatment only affected firmness and TA. Fruit from pruned trees had significant lower K and Mg than those from unpruned trees and Ca treatment increased Ca content. Orchard management, by means of summer pruning, combined with Ca postharvest application would be useful to prevent losses due to bitter-pit during storage in commercial orchards. However, in organic orchards, summer pruning would be the ecological alternative to decrease bitter-pit incidence during storage in high quality apple cv. ‘Reinette du Canada’. K/Ca ratio, on the peel at harvest, turned out to be the best parameter to correlate with external and internal bitter-pits during storage; so this ratio would be useful to predict bitter-pit on long-term storage.
Optimization of the Griddling Process of Kpejigaou (a Traditional Low Fat Nutritious Cowpea Food) Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Amonsou E. , Sakyi-Dawson E. , Saalia F. , Sefa-Dedeh S. , Abbey L.D.
Published: September 2010

Kpejigaou is a griddled cowpea paste product eaten mainly in West Africa. As its processing does not involve the use of fat, it has the potential of meeting consumers’ demand for healthy, low fat nutritious foods. Product texture is considered an important quality index by kpejigaou consumers. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum processing conditions of kpejigaou with respect to its textural properties. The study followed a 2 × 3 design with two processing variables each at three levels as follows: griddling temperature (130, 200, 270 °C) and time (5, 7.5 and 10 min). Texture Profile Analysis (TPA) was done on freshly processed samples. The data were fitted into multiple regression models from which the optimum griddling conditions for kpejigaou were determined. Kpejigaou processed at the optimum conditions was evaluated by untrained consumers for acceptability. Traditionally processed kpejigaou served as the control. The TPA results showed that hardness, chewiness and modulus of deformability were significantly affected by griddling conditions. Adjusted R2 for the models for hardness, chewiness and modulus of deformability were 96%, 97% and 78%, respectively. Using response surface methodology, the optimum griddling conditions for kpejigaou (for acceptable textural properties) were determined to be 170 °C for 5-6 min. The texture of optimized kpejigaou was very much liked for its higher degree of sponginess as compared to the control. It also had acceptable sensory attributes of color, taste and flavor. These findings provide the basis for the development of a process for mass production and quality assurance of kpejigaou.
Nutritional and Antioxidant Properties of Different Brown and Red Spanish Edible Seaweeds
Authors: Cofrades S. , López-Lopez I. , Bravo L. , Ruiz-Capillas C. , Bastida S. , Larrea M.T. , Jiménez-Colmenero F.
Published: September 2010

This article reports a study of the nutritional composition, total dietary fiber (TDF), mineral contents, fatty acid and amino acid profiles, polyphenolic concentration and antioxidant activity of three Spanish seaweeds: two brown seaweeds (Himanthalia elongata and Undaria pinnatifida) and one red (Porphyra umbilicalis). TDF and ash were the most abundant components in the brown seaweeds, while TDF and protein were the main components in the red one. In all seaweeds, the lipid contents were very low but the polyunsaturated fatty acid contents were high. Although the red seaweed contained significantly (p < 0.05) more protein content than the brown ones, all three contained all the essential amino acids at levels comparable to FAO/WHO requirements. The brown seaweeds contained significantly more minerals than the red one; they are a rich source of K, Na, Ca and Mg and present a beneficial Na/K ratio. Himanthalia elongata displayed remarkably high polyphenolic content, endowing it with appreciable antioxidant activity. These seaweeds offer considerable potential as functional food ingredients due to components like dietary fiber, minerals and trace elements, protein and lipids, which produce many different kinds of biological activities, and also to their high antioxidant capacity.
The prevalence of multiple sclerosis in central Italy
Authors: Millefiorini Enrico , Cortese Antonio , Di Rezze Simone , Barletta Giovanna , Bellantonio Paolo , Batocchi Anna P , Di Battista Giancarlo , Fiore Stefania , Gasperini Claudio , Grasso Maria Grazia , Koudriatseva Tatiana , Totaro Rocco , Durastanti Valentina
Published: September 2010

Background: The prevalence of multiple sclerosis varies considerably throughout the world.

Objective: To better define the prevalence of MS in central Italy.

Methods: This is a population-based study conducted in the province of Frosinone, which is situated in the Lazio region, central Italy. The selected prevalence day was 1 January 2007. A total of 467 patients, with a definite diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, were considered for crude, age- and sex-specific prevalence estimation.

Results: The overall crude prevalence rate was 95.0 cases per 100,000 (95% confidence interval (CI) 86.6—104.0). A significantly higher prevalence rate was recorded in females (134.9, 95% CI 121.0—150.1) than in males (53.3, 95% CI 44.4—63.3) ( p = 0.001). Age-specific prevalence peaked in the 25—34 year, 35—44 year and 45—54 year age groups; moreover, it was found to increase up to the 35—44 year age group in males and the 45—54 year age group in females, decreasing thereafter. The female to male ratio was 2.6.

Conclusions: The results confirm that MS occurs more frequently in central Italy than might be expected on the basis of the geographic-related distribution model, thus supporting the view that this is a high-risk area for the disease.
Oral laquinimod in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: 36-week double-blind active extension of the multi-centre, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group placebo-controlled study
Authors: Comi G. , Abramsky O , Arbizu T , Boyko A , Gold R , Havrdová E , Komoly S , Selmaj K , Sharrack B , Filippi M ,   for the LAQ/5063 Study Group
Published: September 2010

Background: Laquinimod, an oral novel immunomodulator, was shown to reduce MRI-measured disease activity in relapsing—remitting MS (RRMS) patients.

Objectives: To determine whether the safety and efficacy profile of laquinimod, as shown in a placebo-controlled 36-week trial (LAQ/5062), is sustained and reproducible.

Methods: Two hundred and fifty seven patients entered the extension phase in which MRI was performed at the beginning and at the end of the active extension phase. Clinical assessments were performed at weeks 4, 12 and every 12 weeks thereafter.

Results: Two hundred and thirty nine (93%) patients completed the extension phase and 222 (86.3%) had a final scan available. Gadolinium-enhanced (GdE) T1 lesions were significantly reduced for patients switching from placebo to 0.3/ 0.6 mg doses (52%, p = 0.0006). In patients initially randomized to 0.6 mg in LAQ/5062 the reduction of MRI activity observed in the placebo-controlled phase was maintained in the extension. The proportion of GdE-free patients for those who switched from placebo increased from a baseline of 31% to 47% at the end of the extension phase ( p = 0.01). The most prominent safety signal was elevations of liver enzymes, reversible in all cases.

Conclusions: The good efficacy and the excellent safety and tolerability profiles of laquinimod 0.6 mg/day are confirmed in this extension study.
Risk perception in natalizumab-treated multiple sclerosis patients and their neurologists
Authors: Heesen Christoph , Kleiter Ingo , Nguyen Franziska , Schäffler Nina , Kasper Jürgen , Köpke Sascha , Gaissmaier Wolfgang
Published: September 2010

Background: Natalizumab is associated with the potentially life-threatening side-effect progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). Little is known about patients’ and physicians’ risk estimates and attitudes towards natalizumab treatment.

Methods: Consecutive natalizumab-treated patients ( n = 69) and neurologists ( n = 66) in two centres and cooperating private practices received an evidence-based three-page information leaflet about natalizumab-associated PML and an evaluation sheet.

Results: After reading the information, patients were significantly more likely than physicians to intend continuation of natalizumab treatment and willing to accept higher risks of PML: 49% of physicians would stop treatment at a PML risk of 2 : 10,000 or lower, while only 17% of patients would do so ( p < 0.001). This difference could not be explained by risk calculation abilities or lack of understanding. Both groups overestimated natalizumab treatment effects.

Conclusion: Patients had a significantly worse perception of multiple sclerosis as a malignant disease. We conclude that patients were willing to accept a higher risk of PML than neurologists. Coherent with their perception of risks and benefits, patients were also more willing to continue treatment. Open information about treatment-related risks is appreciated and might support shared decision making.