This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of mental imagery supplemented with video-modeling on self-efficacy and front squat strength (three repetition maximum; 3RM). Subjects (13 male, 7 female) who had at least 6 months of front squat experience were assigned to either an experimental (n = 10) or a control (n = 10) group. Subjects′ 3RM and self-efficacy for the 3RM were measured at baseline. Following this, subjects in the experimental group followed a structured imagery protocol, incorporating video recordings of both their own 3RM performance and a model lifter with excellent technique, twice a day for three days. Subjects in the control group spent the same amount of time viewing a placebo video. Following three days with no physical training, measurements of front squat 3RM and self-efficacy for the 3RM were repeated. Subjects in the experimental group increased in self-efficacy following the intervention, and showed greater 3RM improvement than those in the control group. Self-efficacy was found to significantly mediate the relationship between imagery and front squat 3RM. These findings point to the importance of mental skills training for the enhancement of self-efficacy and front squat performance.
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Πέμπτη 14 Απριλίου 2016
Sports, Vol. 4, Pages 23: The Effects of Mental Imagery with Video-Modeling on Self-Efficacy and Maximal Front Squat Ability
Atmosphere, Vol. 7, Pages 57: Effect of Pollution Controls on Atmospheric PM2.5 Composition during Universiade in Shenzhen, China
The 16th Universiade, an international multi-sport event, was hosted in Shenzhen, China from 12 to 23 August 2011. During this time, officials instituted the Pearl River Delta action plan in order to enhance the air quality of Shenzhen. To determine the effect of these controls, the current study examined the trace elements, water-soluble ions, and stable lead isotopic ratios in atmospheric particulate matter (PM) collected during the controlled (when the restrictions were in place) and uncontrolled periods. Fine particles (PM2.5) were collected at two sampling sites in Shenzhen: "LG"—a residential building in the Longgang District, with significant point sources around it and "PU"—Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School in the Nanshan District, with no significant point sources. Results from this study showed a significant increase in the concentrations of elements during the uncontrolled periods. For instance, samples at the LG site showed (controlled to uncontrolled periods) concentrations (in ng·m−3) of: Fe (152 to 290), As (3.65 to 8.38), Pb (9.52 to 70.8), and Zn (98.6 to 286). Similarly, samples at the PU site showed elemental concentrations (in ng·m−3) of: Fe (114 to 301), As (0.634 to 8.36), Pb (4.86 to 58.1), and Zn (29.5 to 259). Soluble Fe ranged from 7%–15% for the total measured Fe, indicating an urban source of Fe. Ambient PM2.5 collected at the PU site has an average 206Pb/204Pb ratio of 18.257 and 18.260 during controlled and uncontrolled periods, respectively. The LG site has an average 206Pb/204Pb ratio of 18.183 and 18.030 during controlled and uncontrolled periods, respectively. The 206Pb/204Pb ratios at the PU and the LG sites during the controlled and uncontrolled periods were similar, indicating a common Pb source. To characterize the sources of trace elements, principal component analysis was applied to the elements and ions. Although the relative importance of each component varied, the major sources for both sites were identified as residual oil combustion, secondary inorganic aerosols, sea spray, and combustion. The PM2.5 levels were severely decreased during the controlled period, but it is unclear if this was a result of the controls or change in meteorology.
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Nutrients, Vol. 8, Pages 222: Wine Resveratrol: From the Ground Up
The ability of the grapevine to activate defense mechanisms against some pathogens has been shown to be linked to the synthesis of resveratrol and other stilbenes by the plant (inducible viniferins). Metabolized viniferins may also be produced or modified by extracellular enzymes released by the pathogen in an attempt to eliminate undesirable toxic compounds. Because of the important properties of resveratrol, there is increasing interest in producing wines with higher contents of this compound and a higher nutritional value. Many biotic and abiotic elicitors can trigger the resveratrol synthesis in the berries, and some examples are reported. Under the same elicitation pressure, viticultural and enological factors can substantially affect the resveratrol concentration in the wine. The production of high resveratrol-containing grapes and wines relies on quality-oriented viticulture (suitable terroirs and sustainable cultural practices) and winemaking technologies that avoid degradation of the compound. In general, the oenological practices commonly used to stabilize wine after fermentation do not affect resveratrol concentration, which shows considerable stability. Finally the paper reports on two sirtuin genes (SIRT) expressed in grapevine leaves and berries and the role of resveratrol on the deacetylation activity of the encoded enzymes.
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Harm reduction interventions in HIV care: a qualitative exploration of patient and provider perspectives
Background. A culture of stringent drug policy, one-size-fits-all treatment approaches, and drug-related stigma has clouded clinical HIV practice in the United States. The result is a series of missed opportunities in the HIV care environment. An approach which may address the broken relationship between patient and provider is harm reduction—which removes judgment and operates at the patient's stage of readiness. Harm reduction is not a routine part of care; rather, it exists outside clinic walls, exacerbating the divide between compassionate, stigma-free services and the medical system. Methods. Qualitative, phenomenological, semi-structured, individual interviews with patients and providers were conducted in three publicly-funded clinics in Chicago, located in areas of high HIV prevalence and drug use and serving African-American patients (N = 38). A deductive thematic analysis guided the process, including: the creation of an index code list, transcription and verification of interviews, manual coding, notation of emerging themes and refinement of code definitions, two more rounds of coding within AtlasTi, calculation of Cohen's Kappa for interrater reliability, queries of major codes and analysis of additional common themes. Results. Thematic analysis of findings indicated that the majority of patients felt receptive to harm reduction interventions (safer injection counseling, safer stimulant use counseling, overdose prevention information, supply provision) from their provider, and expressed anticipated gratitude for harm reduction information and/or supplies within the HIV care visit, although some were reluctant to talk openly about their drug use. Provider results were mixed, with more receptivity reported by advanced practice nurses, and more barriers cited by physicians. Notable barriers included: role-perceptions, limited time, inadequate training, and the patients themselves. Discussion. Patients are willing to receive harm reduction interventions from their HIV care providers, while provider receptiveness is mixed. The findings reveal critical implications for diffusion of harm reduction into HIV care, including the need to address cited barriers for both patients and providers to ensure feasibility of implementation. Strategies to address these barriers are discussed, and recommendations for further research are also shared.
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Translation and validation of the Child and the Adolescent HARDSHIP (Headache-attributed restriction, disability, social handicap and impaired participation) questionnaire into Danish language
Background. The prevalence of headaches among children and adolescents varies considerably between countries. This may be due to a lack of appropriate instruments to capture the prevalence. The purpose of this study was to translate the Child and Adolescent HARDSHIP questionnaires from English into Danish language, conduct cross-cultural adaptation, face validation by cognitive interviewing and conduct a pilot study exploring time requirements. Methods. The questionnaire was translated using the guidelines proposed by "The Global Campaign to Reduce the Burden of Headache." A total of 25 children from 6 to 12 years of age completed the questionnaire with 24 h between test and retest to assess reliability. A total of 169 children and adolescents from 6 to 17 years of age completed the translated questionnaire to assess time requirements for completing it. Results. Only minor discrepancies were observed in the translation process. Test-retest reliability of the translated questionnaire showed substantial agreement (kappa: 0.65–0.78). The questionnaires were completed within 30 min (age 6–11 years of age) and within 15 min (age 12–17 years of age) respectively. Discussion. No major problems were observed in the forward translations of the questionnaires. The face validation prompted no major changes in the questionnaire. The face-to-face interviews showed that pupils of different ethnic backgrounds than Danish and pupils in the age group of 6–11 had more difficulty in understanding a minority of the questions. The Danish Child and Adolescent HARDSHIP questionnaire therefore complies with the intentions of the originators, aiming at a maximal completion time of 45 min and in comparison with actual completion time. The test-retest study showed substantial agreement between test and retest in the headache, migraine and MOH domains and questions referring to time.The Child and Adolescent HARDSHIP questionnaire, includes a section specifically recording a four-week period.The Child and Adolescent HARDSHIP questionnaire is intended to measure burden of headache in large populations and there is therefore no need to reflect the states of individuals. We therefore find the substantial reliability of the Danish version of the Child and Adolescent HARDSHIP questionnaire to be adequate, without supplementing with a diary. The pilot study indicates that headache is a major problem among children and adolescents in Denmark. A total of 95.3% of the pupils have experienced headache in their life, 76.6% during the last year. A total of 14% left school early because of their headache and 14.9% missed school during the last four weeks, due to headache. 49.2% have experienced headaches during the last week and 47% describe the headache as "quite bad." A total of 24.1% have taken pills or medicine during the last week due to headache. This pilot study clearly demonstrates the need to investigate the burden of headache among Danish schoolchildren as it seems to have a profound effect on their lives.
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The role of Rnf in ion gradient formation in Desulfovibrio alaskensis
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The macroevolution of size and complexity in insect male genitalia
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Preliminary study on non-viral transfection of F9 (factor IX) gene by nucleofection in human adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells
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Natural selection drives chemical resistance of Datura stramonium
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Laminectomy plus Fusion versus Laminectomy Alone for Lumbar Spondylolisthesis
The increased use of the lumbar spinal fusion procedure in the United States, along with the wide variation in practice, is attracting interest from multiple stakeholders, including patients, physicians, payers, and policymakers. In a report published in 2014, spinal fusion (465,000 hospital-based…
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A Randomized, Controlled Trial of Fusion Surgery for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Lumbar spinal stenosis is caused by a gradual narrowing of the spinal canal. Patients with lumbar spinal stenosis typically present with low back pain and leg pain, which occur especially when they are walking. This degenerative condition severely restricts function, walking ability, and quality of…
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Longitudinal association between gross motor capacity and neuromusculoskeletal function in children and youth with cerebral palsy
Publication date: Available online 13 April 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Rimke C. Vos, Jules G. Becher, Jeanine M. Voorman, Jan Willem Gorter, Mirjam van Eck, Jetty van Meeteren, Dirk-Wouter Smits, Jos WR. Twisk, Annet J. Dallmeijer
ObjectiveTo examine associations over longitudinal measurements between neuromusculoskeletal function and gross motor capacity in children and youth with Cerebral Palsy (CP).DesignA prospective cohort studySettingRehabilitation departments of university medical centers and rehabilitations centers in The NetherlandsParticipants148 children (5-9 years) and 179 youth (11-20 years) with CP, GMFCS I(n=180), II(n=44), III(n=36), IV(n=34) and V(n=33).Interventionsnot applicableOutcome measuresGross motor capacity was assessed with the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-66) over a period of 2-4 years in different age cohorts. Neuromusculoskeletal function included selective motor control (SMC), muscle strength, spasticity and range of motion (ROM) of the lower extremities.ResultsMulti-level analyses showed that SMC was significantly associated with gross motor capacity in children and youth with CP, showing higher values and a more favourable course in those with better SMC. Strength was only associated to gross motor capacity in youth. Reduced ROM of hip (children) and knee extension (youth) and spasticity of the hip adductors (youth) were additionally - but more weakly- associated with lower values and a less favourable course of gross motor capacity.ConclusionsResults indicate that children and youth with more severely impaired SMC and youth with reduced muscle strength have a less favourable course of gross motor capacity, while spasticity and reduced ROM are less determinative.
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Thalamic Functional Connectivity in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Longitudinal Associations with Patient-Reported Outcomes and Neuropsychological Tests
Publication date: Available online 13 April 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Sarah D. Banks, Rogelio A. Coronado, Lori R. Clemons, Christine M. Abraham, Sumit Pruthi, Benjamin N. Conrad, Victoria L. Morgan, Oscar D. Guillamondegui, Kristin R. Archer
ObjectiveTo examine: (1) differences in patient-reported outcomes, neuropsychological tests, and thalamic functional connectivity (FC) between patients with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and healthy controls; (2) the longitudinal association between changes in these measures.DesignProspective observational case-control study.SettingAcademic medical center.ParticipantsThirteen patients with mTBI (mean age = 39.3 years, 4 female) and 11 healthy, age and sex-matched control subjects (mean age = 37.6, 4 female) were enrolled.InterventionsNot applicable.Main Outcome Measure(s)Resting-state FC (3T MRI scanner) was examined between the thalamus and the Default Mode Network (THAL-DMN), Dorsal Attention Network (THAL-DAN), and Frontoparietal Control Network (THAL-FPC). Patient-reported outcomes included pain (Brief Pain Inventory), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD Checklist), and post-concussive (Rivermead Post-Concussion Questionnaire) symptoms. Neuropsychological tests included the D-KEFS Tower test, Trails B, and Hotel task. Assessments occurred at 6 weeks and 4 months after hospitalization for patients with mTBI and at a single visit for controls.ResultsStudent's t-tests found increased pain and depressive, PTSD, and post-concussive symptoms, decreased performance on Trails B, increased THAL-DMN FC, and decreased THAL-DAN and THAL-FPC FC in patients with mTBI compared to healthy controls. Spearman correlation coefficient indicated that increased THAL-DAN FC from baseline to 4 months was associated with decreased pain and post-concussive symptoms (corrected p < 0.05).ConclusionsFindings suggest that alterations in thalamic FC occur after mTBI and improvements in pain and post-concussive symptoms are correlated with normalization of thalamic FC over time.
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A Comparison of Rates of Hospitalization and Emergency Department Visits Using Self-report and South Carolina Administrative Billing Data Among a Population-based Cohort with Spinal Cord Injury
Publication date: Available online 12 April 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Lee L. Saunders, David Murday, Beth Corley, Yue Cao, James S. Krause
ObjectiveTo compare self-report and South Carolina (SC) administrative billing data documentation of emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations in the past 12 months among a population-based cohort of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).DesignCross-sectionalSettingSCI Surveillance System in SCParticipantsPersons sustaining a traumatic SCI between 1998 and 2011 in SC who, at the time of study assessment, were adults, were 1+ years post-injury, and had not made a complete recovery. 605 participants were included in the analysis.InterventionsN/AMain Outcome Measure(s)Hospitalizations and ED visits in the past 12 months.ResultsThere was significantly higher rate of reporting 1+ hospitalization in the past year for self-report (36%) compared to SC administrative billing data (26%) (p<.001), but not for 1+ ED visits (48% vs. 45%, p=.11). Decreased physical health and increased injury severity were associated with higher reporting rates of hospitalization. Physical health and injury severity were predictive of both self-report and SC administrative billing data of hospitalizations, while years post-injury and race were also predictors of SC administrative billing data hospitalizations.ConclusionsOur comparison of self-report and SC administrative billing data hospitalizations and ED visits showed a significantly higher rate of reporting of hospitalizations using self-report, specifically among those with poor physical health and higher injury severity. Future work should look at different ways of asking about health care utilization and compare with SC administrative billing data documentation to identify the best ways to assess through self-report.
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The Immediate Biomechanical Implications of Transfer Component Skills Training on Independent Wheelchair Transfers
Publication date: Available online 12 April 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Chung-Ying Tsai, Michael L. Boninger, Jennifer Hastings, Rory A. Cooper, Laura Rice, Alicia M. Koontz
ObjectiveTo evaluate the immediate effects of transfer training based on the Transfer Assessment Instrument (TAI) on the UL biomechanics during transfers.DesignPre-post interventionSettingBiomechanics laboratoryParticipantsTwenty-four full-time manual wheelchair users (MWUs) performed up to five transfers to a level height bench while their natural transfer skills were scored using the TAI and their biomechanical data were recorded.InterventionParticipants with two or more component skill deficits were invited to return back to receive personalized transfer training.Main Outcome MeasuresTAI part 1 summary scores and biomechanical variables calculated at the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints were compared before and immediately after transfer training.ResultsSixteen of the 24 MWUs met the criteria for training and 11 MWUs came back for the re-visit. Their TAI part 1 summary scores improved from 6.31(±0.98) to 9.92(±0.25). They had significantly smaller elbow range of motion, shoulder resultant moment and rates of rise of elbow and wrist resultant forces on their trailing side during transfers after training (p < 0.05). On the leading side, shoulder maximum internal rotation and elevation angles, and shoulder resultant moments and rates of rise of shoulder resultant force and moment decreased after training (p < 0.04).ConclusionsThe TAI-based training showed short-term beneficial biomechanical effects on wheelchair users' ULs, such as better shoulder positioning and lower joint loadings. If the skills are practiced longer term, they may help protect the ULs from developing pain and injuries.
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Comorbid traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury: Screening validity and effect on outcomes
Publication date: Available online 12 April 2016
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Charles H. Bombardier, Darren C. Lee, Debbie L. Tan, Jason Barber, Jeanne M. Hoffman
ObjectiveTo determine the diagnostic accuracy of a self-report measure of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) and to assess the potential effect of TBI on acute and post-acute outcomes.DesignWe compared incident TBI as determined by self-report versus systematic medical records review by physicians blinded to self-reported TBI.SettingInpatient rehabilitation unitParticipants105 of 155 consecutive admissions met inclusion criteria, were admitted on the day of injury, and were assessed.Intervention(s)not applicableMain outcome measure(s)Step 2 of the TBI-4 interview was used to estimate the presence and severity of TBI.ResultsThe sample was 73% male, 45.9 years old on average, 73% Caucasian, and 58% had tetraplegia. Estimated incidence of TBI was 33% by chart review and 60% based on Step 2 of the TBI-4. 91% of those with TBI based on chart review sustained mild injuries. At the optimal cutoff of "possible TBI", the TBI-4 had a sensitivity of 83% (95% confidence interval (CI), 66-93%), specificity of 51% (95%CI, 39-64%), and Youden's index of 0.3 (95% CI, 0.2-0.5). Compared to those without TBI, those with chart review determined TBI had non-significant trends toward longer acute care length of stay and higher functional status at rehabilitation discharge, but equivalent one-year outcomes.ConclusionsStep 2 of theTBI-4 did not meet Youden's criteria (0.8 or higher) for good diagnostic accuracy in the context of recent SCI. Comorbid TBIs were almost exclusively mild and not associated with poorer outcomes one year after SCI.
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Prevalence of Diabetic Foot Disease in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus under Renal Replacement Therapy in Lleida, Spain
Aim. To assess the prevalence of diabetic foot and other associated conditions in patients with diabetes mellitus under renal replacement in the region of Lleida, Spain. Methods. This was an observational, cross-sectional study of 92 dialysis-treated diabetic patients. Besides a podiatric examination, we explored the presence of cardiovascular risk factors, late diabetes complications, including peripheral neuropathy, atherosclerotic disease, and peripheral artery disease. We assessed risk factors for foot ulceration and amputation by logistic regression. Results. Prevalent diabetic foot was found in 17.4% of patients, foot deformities were found in 54.3%, previous ulcer was found in 19.6%, and amputations were found in 16.3%; and 87% of them had some risk of suffering diabetic foot in the future. We observed a high prevalence of patients with peripheral neuropathy and peripheral artery disease (89.1% and 64.2%, resp.). Multivariable analysis identified diabetic retinopathy and advanced atherosclerotic disease (stenosing carotid plaques) as independent risk factors for foot ulceration ( and , resp.) and diabetic retinopathy also as an independent risk factor for lower-limb amputations (). Moreover, there was a temporal association between the initiation of dialysis and the incidence of amputations. Conclusion. Diabetic patients receiving dialysis therapy are at high risk of foot complications and should receive appropriate and intensive foot care.
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Nanomaterials, Vol. 6, Pages 71: Gold Nanoparticles: An Efficient Antimicrobial Agent against Enteric Bacterial Human Pathogen
Enteric bacterial human pathogens, i.e., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae, are the major cause of diarrheal infections in children and adults. Their structure badly affects the human immune system. It is important to explore new antibacterial agents instead of antibiotics for treatment. This project is an attempt to explain how gold nanoparticles affect these bacteria. We investigated the important role of the mean particle size, and the inhibition of a bacterium is dose-dependent. Ultra Violet (UV)-visible spectroscopy revealed the size of chemically synthesized gold nanoparticle as 6–40 nm. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis confirmed the size and X-ray diffractometry (XRD) analysis determined the polycrystalline nature of gold nanoparticles. The present findings explained how gold nanoparticles lyse Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
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Polymers, Vol. 8, Pages 128: Transparent Blend of Poly(Methylmethacrylate)/Cellulose Acetate Butyrate for the Protection from Ultraviolet
The use of transparent polymers as an alternative to glass has become widespread. However, the direct exposure of these materials to climatic conditions of sunlight and heat decrease the lifetime cost of these products. The aim of this study was to minimize the harm caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure to transparent poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA), which usually leads to changes in the physical and chemical properties of these materials and reduced performance. This was achieved using environmentally friendly cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB). The optical, morphological, and thermal properties of CAB blended with transparent PMMA was studied using UV-VIS spectrophotometry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, dynamic mechanical analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The results show that CAB was able to reduce the effects of UV radiation by making PMMA more transparent to UV light, thereby preventing the negative effects of trapped radiation within the compositional structure, while maintaining the amorphous structure of the blend. The results also show that CAB blended with PMMA led to some properties commensurate with the requirements of research in terms of a slight increase in the value of the modulus and the glass transition temperature for the PMMA/CAB blend.
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Challenges, Vol. 7, Pages 10: Flaws and Drawbacks in Present Regulation and the Need to Take Action and Support the Renewable Energies Policies in Italy
Renewable energies is an important sector that needs to be sustained and increased by the action of policies and economic support.[...]
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JFB, Vol. 7, Pages 9: Evaluating the Surface Topography of Pyrolytic Carbon Finger Prostheses through Measurement of Various Roughness Parameters
The articulating surfaces of four different sizes of unused pyrolytic carbon proximal interphalangeal prostheses (PIP) were evaluated though measuring several topographical parameters using a white light interferometer: average roughness (Sa); root mean-square roughness (Sq); skewness (Ssk); and kurtosis (Sku). The radii of the articulating surfaces were measured using a coordinate measuring machine, and were found to be: 2.5, 3.3, 4.2 and 4.7 mm for proximal, and 4.0, 5.1, 5.6 and 6.3 mm for medial components. ANOVA was used to assess the relationship between the component radii and each roughness parameter. Sa, Sq and Ssk correlated negatively with radius (p = 0.001, 0.001, 0.023), whilst Sku correlated positively with radius (p = 0.03). Ergo, the surfaces with the largest radii possessed the better topographical characteristics: low roughness, negative skewness, high kurtosis. Conversely, the surfaces with the smallest radii had poorer topographical characteristics.
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Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 540: Acute Sleep Deprivation Induces a Local Brain Transfer Information Increase in the Frontal Cortex in a Widespread Decrease Context
Sleep deprivation (SD) has adverse effects on mental and physical health, affecting the cognitive abilities and emotional states. Specifically, cognitive functions and alertness are known to decrease after SD. The aim of this work was to identify the directional information transfer after SD on scalp EEG signals using transfer entropy (TE). Using a robust methodology based on EEG recordings of 18 volunteers deprived from sleep for 36 h, TE and spectral analysis were performed to characterize EEG data acquired every 2 h. Correlation between connectivity measures and subjective somnolence was assessed. In general, TE showed medium- and long-range significant decreases originated at the occipital areas and directed towards different regions, which could be interpreted as the transfer of predictive information from parieto-occipital activity to the rest of the head. Simultaneously, short-range increases were obtained for the frontal areas, following a consistent and robust time course with significant maps after 20 h of sleep deprivation. Changes during sleep deprivation in brain network were measured effectively by TE, which showed increased local connectivity and diminished global integration. TE is an objective measure that could be used as a potential measure of sleep pressure and somnolence with the additional property of directed relationships.
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Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 539: Sparsity-Aware DOA Estimation Scheme for Noncircular Source in MIMO Radar
In this paper, a novel sparsity-aware direction of arrival (DOA) estimation scheme for a noncircular source is proposed in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar. In the proposed method, the reduced-dimensional transformation technique is adopted to eliminate the redundant elements. Then, exploiting the noncircularity of signals, a joint sparsity-aware scheme based on the reweighted <> l 1 norm penalty is formulated for DOA estimation, in which the diagonal elements of the weight matrix are the coefficients of the noncircular MUSIC-like (NC MUSIC-like) spectrum. Compared to the existing <> l 1 norm penalty-based methods, the proposed scheme provides higher angular resolution and better DOA estimation performance. Results from numerical experiments are used to show the effectiveness of our proposed method.
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Viruses, Vol. 8, Pages 100: Purification and Biochemical Characterisation of Rabbit Calicivirus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerases and Identification of Non-Nucleoside Inhibitors
Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is a calicivirus that causes acute infections in both domestic and wild European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The virus causes significant economic losses in rabbit farming and reduces wild rabbit populations. The recent emergence of RHDV variants capable of overcoming immunity to other strains emphasises the need to develop universally effective antivirals to enable quick responses during outbreaks until new vaccines become available. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is a primary target for the development of such antiviral drugs. In this study, we used cell-free in vitro assays to examine the biochemical characteristics of two rabbit calicivirus RdRps and the effects of several antivirals that were previously identified as human norovirus RdRp inhibitors. The non-nucleoside inhibitor NIC02 was identified as a potential scaffold for further drug development against rabbit caliciviruses. Our experiments revealed an unusually high temperature optimum (between 40 and 45 °C) for RdRps derived from both a pathogenic and a non-pathogenic rabbit calicivirus, possibly demonstrating an adaptation to a host with a physiological body temperature of more than 38 °C. Interestingly, the in vitro polymerase activity of the non-pathogenic calicivirus RdRp was at least two times higher than that of the RdRp of the highly virulent RHDV.
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Author response: 'Does cadmium exposure contribute to depressive symptoms in the elderly population?
We thank Dr Tomoyuki Kawada1 for his interest in our manuscript entitled 'Does cadmium exposure contribute to depressive symptoms in the elderly population?'2 In the letter, Dr Kawada depicted three possible reasons for the inconsistent results of our study: limited statistical power, use of blood cadmium as marker of cadmium exposure and the presence of other potential confounding variables.
First, we agree with Dr Kawada's opinion on the limited statistical power of the study regarding the small number of depression patients in the second and the third visit data. In our study, the point estimates for the association between blood cadmium levels and elderly depressive symptoms were not consistent across the three visits. The direction of the point estimate at the second and the third visit should be consistent as long as depression patients are similarly distributed across the quartile group as their distribution at...
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Blood cadmium level in the elderly population: perspective for the cause of inconsistent results
Han et al1 investigated the association between blood cadmium levels (B-Cd) and depression in 395 people, aged 60 years or older. Survey was conducted three times, and positive association between B-Cd and depression was only observed in the first visit. The authors used the Korean version of the Short Form Generic Depression Scale test (SGDS-K) for screening depression and logistic regression model was used for the analysis. I present my speculation on their statistical inconsistency.
First, the authors well recognised the relatively small number of participants and depression cases, especially in the second and the third visit data. Even in the first visit data, the number of depression cases was only 50. In their tables 3–5, wide ranges of 95% CIs were observed. There is a limitation in the total number of events for logistic regression analysis.2 Peduzzi et al3 simulated the effect of...
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Interventions to increase the reporting of occupational diseases by physicians: a Cochrane systematic review
Introduction
Under-reporting of occupational diseases is an important issue in many countries. Timely and complete reporting is fundamental to a successful physician-based public health surveillance system and to plan intervention programmes and allocation of resources.
For physicians, the main reasons for under-reporting consist of lack of awareness regarding reporting requirements, time and effort involved in reporting and lack of benefit from reporting.
There are no systematic reviews of the effects of interventions for increasing the reporting (or reducing the under-reporting) of occupational diseases. Therefore, we conducted a Cochrane systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at increasing the reporting of occupational diseases by physicians.1
MethodsWe searched the Cochrane Occupational Safety and Health Group Specialised Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, OSH UPDATE, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), Open-SIGLE and Health Evidence, up...
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Associations of short-term exposure to traffic-related air pollution with cardiovascular and respiratory hospital admissions in London, UK
Objectives
There is evidence of adverse associations between short-term exposure to traffic-related pollution and health, but little is known about the relative contribution of the various sources and particulate constituents.
MethodsFor each day for 2011–2012 in London, UK over 100 air pollutant metrics were assembled using monitors, modelling and chemical analyses. We selected a priori metrics indicative of traffic sources: general traffic, petrol exhaust, diesel exhaust and non-exhaust (mineral dust, brake and tyre wear). Using Poisson regression models, controlling for time-varying confounders, we derived effect estimates for cardiovascular and respiratory hospital admissions at prespecified lags and evaluated the sensitivity of estimates to multipollutant modelling and effect modification by season.
ResultsFor single day exposure, we found consistent associations between adult (15–64 years) cardiovascular and paediatric (0–14 years) respiratory admissions with elemental and black carbon (EC/BC), ranging from 0.56% to 1.65% increase per IQR change, and to a lesser degree with carbon monoxide (CO) and aluminium (Al). The average of past 7 days EC/BC exposure was associated with elderly (65+ years) cardiovascular admissions. Indicated associations were higher during the warm period of the year. Although effect estimates were sensitive to the adjustment for other pollutants they remained consistent in direction, indicating independence of associations from different sources, especially between diesel and petrol engines, as well as mineral dust.
ConclusionsOur results suggest that exhaust related pollutants are associated with increased numbers of adult cardiovascular and paediatric respiratory hospitalisations. More extensive monitoring in urban centres is required to further elucidate the associations.
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Expected number of asbestos-related lung cancers in the Netherlands in the next two decades: a comparison of methods
Objectives
Exposure to asbestos fibres increases the risk of mesothelioma and lung cancer. Although the vast majority of mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure, the number of asbestos-related lung cancers is less clear. This number cannot be determined directly as lung cancer causes are not clinically distinguishable but may be estimated using varying modelling methods.
MethodsWe applied three different modelling methods to the Dutch population supplemented with uncertainty ranges (UR) due to uncertainty in model input values. The first method estimated asbestos-related lung cancer cases directly from observed and predicted mesothelioma cases in an age-period-cohort analysis. The second method used evidence on the fraction of lung cancer cases attributable (population attributable risk (PAR)) to asbestos exposure. The third method incorporated risk estimates and population exposure estimates to perform a life table analysis.
ResultsThe three methods varied substantially in incorporated evidence. Moreover, the estimated number of asbestos-related lung cancer cases in the Netherlands between 2011 and 2030 depended crucially on the actual method applied, as the mesothelioma method predicts 17 500 expected cases (UR 7000–57 000), the PAR method predicts 12 150 cases (UR 6700–19 000), and the life table analysis predicts 6800 cases (UR 6800–33 850).
ConclusionsThe three different methods described resulted in absolute estimates varying by a factor of ~2.5. These results show that accurate estimation of the impact of asbestos exposure on the lung cancer burden remains a challenge.
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A cost-benefit analysis of peer coaching for overhead lift use in the long-term care sector in Canada
Objectives
To evaluate whether a peer-coaching programme for patient lift use in British Columbia, Canada, was effective and cost-beneficial.
MethodsWe used monthly panel data from 15 long-term care facilities from 2004 to 2011 to estimate the number of patient-handling injuries averted by the peer-coaching programme using a generalised estimating equation model. Facilities that had not yet introduced the programme served as concurrent controls. Accepted lost-time claim counts related to patient handling were the outcome of interest with a denominator of full-time equivalents of nursing staff. A cost-benefit approach was used to estimate the net monetary gains at the system level.
ResultsThe coaching programme was found to be associated with a reduction in the injury rate of 34% during the programme and 56% after the programme concluded with an estimated 62 lost-time injury claims averted. 2 other factors were associated with changes in injury rates: larger facilities had a lower injury rate, and the more care hours per bed the lower the injury rate. We calculated monetary benefits to the system of $748 431 and costs of $894 000 (both in 2006 Canadian dollars) with a benefit-to-cost ratio of 0.84. The benefit-to-cost ratio was –0.05 in the worst case scenario and 2.31 in the best case scenario. The largest cost item was peer coaches' time. A simulation of the programme continuing for 5 years with the same coaching intensity would result in a benefit-to-cost ratio of 0.63.
ConclusionsA peer-coaching programme to increase effective use of overhead lifts prevented additional patient-handling injuries but added modest incremental cost to the system.
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Self-guided internet-based and mobile-based stress management for employees: results of a randomised controlled trial
Objective
This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a self-guided internet-based stress management intervention (iSMI) for employees compared to a 6-month wait-list control group (WLC) with full access for both groups to treatment as usual.
MethodA sample of 264 employees with elevated symptoms of perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale, PSS-10 ≥22) was randomly assigned to either the iSMI or to the WLC. The iSMI consisted of seven sessions and one booster session including problem-solving and emotion regulation techniques. Self-report data were assessed at baseline, at 7 weeks and at 6 months following randomisation. The primary outcome was perceived stress (PSS-10). The secondary outcomes included other relevant mental-related and work-related health outcomes. Data were analysed based on intention-to-treat principles.
ResultsThe iSMI participants showed a significantly higher reduction in perceived stress from baseline to post-treatment at 7 weeks (d=0.96, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.21) and to the 6-month follow-up (d=0.65, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.89) compared to the WLC. Significant differences with small to moderate effect sizes were also found for depression, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, sleeping problems, worrying, mental health-related quality of life, psychological detachment, emotion regulation skills and presenteeism, in favour of the experimental group. At the 6 -month follow-up, all outcomes remained significantly better for the experimental group with the exception of work engagement, physical health-related quality of life and absenteeism, which were not found to significantly differ between the iSMI and WLC groups.
ConclusionsThe iSMI investigated in this study was found to be effective in reducing typical mental-related and work-related health symptoms of stressed employees. Internet-based self-guided interventions could be an acceptable, effective and potentially cost-effective approach to reduce the negative consequences associated with work-related stress.
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Statutory prevention of work injuries in Italy: an effectiveness evaluation with interrupted time series analysis in a sample of 5000 manufacturing plants from the Veneto region
Objectives
According to Italian law, prevention of injuries in the workplace falls under the National Health System Service of Prevention, Health and Safety at Work (SPISAL). In a sample of about 5000 industrial firms in the Veneto region (North-Eastern Italy), the study examines the impact of SPISAL safety programmes on injuries.
MethodsThe study is based on the before-and-after comparison of injury rates in 795 industrial settings that were subject to SPISAL interventions and 4186 reference firms, which were all manufacturing industries with >10 employees; construction companies were excluded. The time window (2001–2007) was chosen in order to have 8 quarters of observation before and 8 after the intervention. The National Institute for Workers' Compensation provided data on injuries and plants, while SPISAL gave information on interventions carried out. The preintervention and postintervention rates of injuries were compared by means of interrupted time series analyses, estimating the rate ratio (RR) with a 95% CI.
ResultsInspection after injury reduced by 24% (RR=0.76; 95% CI 0.65 to 0.90; p=0.001) all injuries, and by 36% (RR=0.64; 95% CI 0.50 to 0.83; p=0.001) severe injuries (fatalities, lost workdays >30, degree of permanent disability >0). These changes occurred immediately and persisted for 2 years. The effects of programmed inspections were never significant.
ConclusionsIt can be presumed that, after a severe injury, the employees raised their standard of what they considered good work safety and, at the same time, the employers were pushed to improve the work environment as a result of the sudden attention from the workplace hygiene and safety authority and court authority. Inspection after injury was an effective strategy; however, confirmatory evidence is needed.
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Pleural mesothelioma and lung cancer risks in relation to occupational history and asbestos lung burden
Background
We have conducted a population-based study of pleural mesothelioma patients with occupational histories and measured asbestos lung burdens in occupationally exposed workers and in the general population. The relationship between lung burden and risk, particularly at environmental exposure levels, will enable future mesothelioma rates in people born after 1965 who never installed asbestos to be predicted from their asbestos lung burdens.
MethodsFollowing personal interview asbestos fibres longer than 5 µm were counted by transmission electron microscopy in lung samples obtained from 133 patients with mesothelioma and 262 patients with lung cancer. ORs for mesothelioma were converted to lifetime risks.
ResultsLifetime mesothelioma risk is approximately 0.02% per 1000 amphibole fibres per gram of dry lung tissue over a more than 100-fold range, from 1 to 4 in the most heavily exposed building workers to less than 1 in 500 in most of the population. The asbestos fibres counted were amosite (75%), crocidolite (18%), other amphiboles (5%) and chrysotile (2%).
ConclusionsThe approximate linearity of the dose–response together with lung burden measurements in younger people will provide reasonably reliable predictions of future mesothelioma rates in those born since 1965 whose risks cannot yet be seen in national rates. Burdens in those born more recently will indicate the continuing occupational and environmental hazards under current asbestos control regulations. Our results confirm the major contribution of amosite to UK mesothelioma incidence and the substantial contribution of non-occupational exposure, particularly in women.
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Incidence rates of occupational diseases in the Dutch construction sector, 2010-2014
Objective
To estimate incidence and trends in incidence of occupational diseases (ODs) in the Dutch construction sector.
MethodsIn a dynamic prospective cohort over a 5-year period (2010–2014), ODs assessed by occupational physicians (OPs) participating in a voluntary construction workers health surveillance (WHS) were reported to the Netherlands Centre for Occupational Diseases (NCOD). ODs were defined as a disease with a specific clinical diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases) that was predominantly caused by work-related factors as assessed by an OP. Annual incidences were determined for the total number of ODs and six frequently occurring OD groups. Trends in incidence were estimated using a multilevel negative binominal regression model.
ResultsIn 2014 the incidence of all OD was 12 964 per 100 000 workers and there was no significant change in incidence between 2010 and 2014 (3%; 95% CI –2% to +9%). Hearing loss (8125 per 100 000 workers) and musculoskeletal disorders (2081 per 100 000 workers) were the most frequently occurring ODs. Noise-induced hearing loss (+7%; 95% CI 1% to 13%) and contact dermatitis (+19%; 95% CI 6% to 33%) showed increasing trends. There was no statistically significant change in the incidence of low back pain, arthrosis, repetitive strain injuries, distress/burnout and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease/asthma.
ConclusionsIn total, 13% of workers participating in WHS in the Dutch construction industry during 2014 had an OD diagnosed and reported by an OP. Over a 5-year period the annual incidence of reported ODs showed a statistically non-significant increase. Incidences in noise-induced hearing loss and contact dermatitis showed statistically significant increasing trends, 7% and 19%, respectively.
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Setting new standards for epidemiological research on mesothelioma
The paper by Gilham et al1 is important for a number of methodological and substantive reasons, and contributes novel information on the body of epidemiology evidence on the association between asbestos exposure and subsequent risk of pleural mesothelioma.
The use of lung fibre burden as a method to estimate past asbestos exposure has been advocated for a long time,2 and these authors have, for the first time, applied this approach to their large-scale population study, which has already provided important results on the association between asbestos and mesothelioma, based on conventional epidemiological indicators of exposure, that is, occupational categories and time-related factors.3 The method is not free from possible bias, in particular resulting from the difficulty in obtaining lung tissue samples from unbiased groups of mesothelioma cases and controls. In the study by Gilham et al, samples were analysed for 134 cases, which...
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Heat effects among migrant and seasonal farmworkers: a case study in Colorado
Background
Although migrant and seasonal farmworkers are highly vulnerable to ambient heat because of their working conditions, heat effects in this population have been rarely studied.
ObjectivesWe estimated effects of heat on mean daily counts of clinic visits among migrant and seasonal farmworkers by taking advantage of a unique longitudinal medical records database in the USA.
MethodsWe compiled a daily weather and clinic visit data set based on data from a health centre in Colorado for the summer of 2013. A total of 14 481 patients were included in our analysis, including 150 migrant farmworkers and 231 seasonal farmworkers with an average of 3 and 4 visits per day. We used Poisson regression to estimate the associations between heat and daily all-cause or cardiovascular-specific clinic visits among migrant or seasonal farmworkers or other stratified patients. We defined heat effects as the percentage difference in average daily counts of clinic visits, comparing 90–50th centiles of daily mean apparent temperature, a composite index accounting for both temperature and humidity. We conducted a sensitivity analysis to evaluate the impact of adjustment for ozone levels and different heat definitions.
ResultsEstimates of heat effects on average daily clinic visits among migrant farmworkers were positive (88.0%, 95% CI: 26.2% to 180.0%). We did not observe statistically significant associations between heat and clinic visits among other stratified groups.
ConclusionsOur study appears to be the first to link heat effects with clinic data among migrant and seasonal farmworkers. This research suggests possible significant impact of heat on migrant farmworkers and provides justifications for further studies.
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Mortality rates by occupation in Korea: a nationwide, 13-year follow-up study
Objective
The present study sought to identify inequalities in cause-specific mortality across different occupational groups in Korea.
MethodsThe cohort included Korean workers enrolled in the national employment insurance programme between 1995 and 2000. Mortality was determined by matching death between 1995 and 2008 according to a nationwide registry of the Korea National Statistical Office. The cohort was divided into nine occupational groups according to the Korean Standard Occupational Classification (KSOC). Age-standardised mortality rates of each subcohort were calculated.
ResultsThe highest age-standardised mortality rate was identified in KSOC 6 (agricultural, forestry and fishery workers; male (M): 563.0 per 100 000, female (F): 206.0 per 100 000), followed by KSOC 9 (elementary occupations; M: 499.0, F: 163.4) and KSOC 8 (plant, machine operators and assemblers; M: 380.3, F: 157.8). The lowest rate occurred in KSOC 2 (professionals and related workers; M: 209.1, F: 93.3). Differences in mortality rates between KSOC 2 and KSOC 9 (M: 289.9, F: 70.1) and the rate ratio of KSCO9 to KSCO2 (M: 2.39, F: 1.75) were higher in men. The most prominent mortality rate difference was observed in external causes of death (M: 96.9, F: 21.6) and liver disease in men (38.3 per 100 000). Mental disease showed the highest rate ratio (M: 6.31, F: 13.00).
ConclusionsSubstantial differences in mortality rates by occupation were identified. Main causes of death were injury, suicide and male liver disease. Development of policies to support occupations linked with a lower socioeconomic position should be prioritised.
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J. Imaging, Vol. 2, Pages 13: The Herschel Heritage to Medical Thermography
The discovery of infrared radiation by William Herschel in 1800 led to John Herschel's study of solar radiation that he imaged by evaporography. This he termed a thermogram. The measurement of temperature in medicine advanced with Dr Carl Wunderlich, who showed the significance of the use of temperature measurements for diagnosis of fever and for monitoring the course of temperature in relation to disease. It was William and John Herschel's discovery of infrared radiation that has ultimately opened up many applications for thermal imaging. Radiometric determination of human body (skin) temperature is now achievable. Remote sensing of infrared radiation first developed in the 1940s and has continued to develop steadily since 1960. Modern high speed and high resolution camera systems have now reached a dramatic level of performance at more modest costs, which medicine can now employ for non-invasive and quantifiable imaging. This has applications in many areas of medicine both for diagnostics and monitoring treatment. In recent years the acute threat of pandemic infection has increased, heightened by today's ever expanding world travel. Special interest has been shown in the potential of thermal imaging for airport and travel screening. This is in effect where Dr Wunderlich's studies began, and it has yet to be proven that the technique can be responsibly employed for efficient screening of large numbers of the travelling public.
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Processes, Vol. 4, Pages 14: An Experimental Investigation to Facilitate an Improvement in the Design of an Electromagnetic Continuous Casting Mould
An electromagnetic continuous casting mould designed is proposed with a non-uniform slit distribution structure. This design has aimed to reduce the number of slits so that the mould's strength is enhanced, whilst maintaining a similar metallurgy effect. In this paper, the metallurgy effect for the designed mould is investigated through the magnetic field distribution along the casting direction, the uniformity feature in the vicinity of the meniscus region, the temperature variation of the molten alloy pool and the mould wall. The results show that the designed mould achieved a similar effect as compared to the original mould; however, the configuration is simplified. This research highlights the topic of mould structure optimization, which would enable the Electromagnetic continuous casting (EMCC) technique to be utilized with greater ease by industry.
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Materials, Vol. 9, Pages 287: A Novel MgO-CaO-SiO2 System for Fabricating Bone Scaffolds with Improved Overall Performance
Although forsterite (Mg2SiO4) possesses good biocompatibility and suitable mechanical properties, the insufficient bioactivity and degradability hinders its further application. In this study, a novel MgO-CaO-SiO2 system was developed by adding wollastonite (CaSiO3) into Mg2SiO4 to fabricate bone scaffolds via selective laser sintering (SLS). The apatite-forming ability and degradability of the scaffolds were enhanced because the degradation of CaSiO3 could form silanol groups, which could offer nucleation sites for apatite. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of the scaffolds grew with increasing CaSiO3 to 20 wt %. It was explained that the liquid phase of CaSiO3 promoted the densification during sintering due to its low melting point. With the further increase in CaSiO3, the mechanical properties decreased due to the formation of the continuous filling phase. Furthermore, the scaffolds possessed a well-interconnected porous structure and exhibited an ability to support cell adhesion and proliferation.
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Processes, Vol. 4, Pages 11: Correction: Sarah Jasper and Mahmoud M. El-Halwagi A Techno-Economic Comparison between Two Methanol-to-Propylene Processes Processes 2015, 3, 684–698
The authors wish to correct Table A1 of the published paper in Processes [1].[...]
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Effective protein inhibition in intact mouse oocytes through peptide nanoparticle-mediated antibody transfection
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The myogenic electric organ of Sternopygus macrurus: a non-contractile tissue with a skeletal muscle transcriptome
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Anatomy and osteohistology of the basal hadrosaurid dinosaur Eotrachodon from the uppermost Santonian (Cretaceous) of southern Appalachia
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Effect of kinesio tape application on hemiplegic shoulder pain and motor ability: a pilot study.
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Insects, Vol. 7, Pages 14: Daily Rhythms in Mosquitoes and Their Consequences for Malaria Transmission
The 24-h day involves cycles in environmental factors that impact organismal fitness. This is thought to select for organisms to regulate their temporal biology accordingly, through circadian and diel rhythms. In addition to rhythms in abiotic factors (such as light and temperature), biotic factors, including ecological interactions, also follow daily cycles. How daily rhythms shape, and are shaped by, interactions between organisms is poorly understood. Here, we review an emerging area, namely the causes and consequences of daily rhythms in the interactions between vectors, their hosts and the parasites they transmit. We focus on mosquitoes, malaria parasites and vertebrate hosts, because this system offers the opportunity to integrate from genetic and molecular mechanisms to population dynamics and because disrupting rhythms offers a novel avenue for disease control.
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Processes, Vol. 4, Pages 13: Mechanism of Acetyl Salicylic Acid (Aspirin) Degradation under Solar Light in Presence of a TiO2-Polymeric Film Photocatalyst
Application of titanium dioxide (TiO2) as a photocatalyst has presented a promising avenue for the safe photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. Increasing levels of the release of pharmaceuticals in the environment and formation of the intermediates during their degradation may impose health and environmental risks and therefore require more attention. Photocatalytic degradation of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) was carried out in the presence of the TiO2-filled polymeric film as a photocatalyst under solar light irradiation. The polymeric film incorporates TiO2 in the matrix, which acts as a photocatalyst under solar illumination and degrades the acetyl salicylic acid (ASA) into a range of organic compounds before complete demineralization (formation of carbon dioxide and water as final products). Among the intermediates, acetic acid was found to be present in a larger amount compared to other organic acids. The qualitative/quantitative analyses of the intermediates resulted in the determination of the most probable reaction's mechanism in the degradation process. The mechanism of degradation of acetylsalicylic acid and its reaction pathway were developed from liquid chromatography/mass spectroscopy (LC/MS), Fourier Transform Infra Red (FTIR) and UV spectrophotometric analysis. It was found that hydroxyl groups were dominant in the degradation process compared to electrons and holes generated by TiO2. The total organic carbon (TOC) analysis was also carried out to analyze the organic carbon content of the intermediates formed during the course of degradation.
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Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 536: An Alignment Method for the Integration of Underwater 3D Data Captured by a Stereovision System and an Acoustic Camera
The integration of underwater 3D data captured by acoustic and optical systems is a promising technique in various applications such as mapping or vehicle navigation. It allows for compensating the drawbacks of the low resolution of acoustic sensors and the limitations of optical sensors in bad visibility conditions. Aligning these data is a challenging problem, as it is hard to make a point-to-point correspondence. This paper presents a multi-sensor registration for the automatic integration of 3D data acquired from a stereovision system and a 3D acoustic camera in close-range acquisition. An appropriate rig has been used in the laboratory tests to determine the relative position between the two sensor frames. The experimental results show that our alignment approach, based on the acquisition of a rig in several poses, can be adopted to estimate the rigid transformation between the two heterogeneous sensors. A first estimation of the unknown geometric transformation is obtained by a registration of the two 3D point clouds, but it ends up to be strongly affected by noise and data dispersion. A robust and optimal estimation is obtained by a statistical processing of the transformations computed for each pose. The effectiveness of the method has been demonstrated in this first experimentation of the proposed 3D opto-acoustic camera.
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Challenges, Vol. 7, Pages 9: Modeling Autonomous Decision-Making on Energy and Environmental Management Using Petri-Net: The Case Study of a Community in Bandung, Indonesia
Autonomous decision-making in this study is defined as the process where decision-makers have the freedom and ability to find problems, select goals, and make decisions for achieving the selected problems/goals by themselves. Autonomous behavior is considered significant for achieving decision implementation, especially in the context of energy and environmental management, where multiple stakeholders are involved and each stakeholder holds valuable local information for making decisions. This paper aims to build a structured process in modeling the autonomous decision-making. A practical decision-making process in waste-to-energy conversion activities in a community in Bandung, Indonesia, is selected as a case study. The decision-making process here is considered as a discrete event system, which is then represented as a Petri-net model. First, the decision-making process in the case study is decomposed into discrete events or decision-making stages, and the stakeholders' properties in each stage are extracted from the case study. Second, several stakeholder properties that indicate autonomous behavior are identified as autonomous properties. Third, presented is a method to develop the decision-making process as a Petri-net model. The model is utilized for identifying the critical points for verifying the performance of the derived Petri-net.
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Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 287: Load Concentration Factor Based Analytical Method for Optimal Placement of Multiple Distribution Generators for Loss Minimization and Voltage Profile Improvement
This paper presents novel separate methods for finding optimal locations, sizes of multiple distributed generators (DGs) simultaneously and operational power factor in order to minimize power loss and improve the voltage profile in the distribution system. A load concentration factor (LCF) is introduced to select the optimal location(s) for DG placement. Exact loss formula based analytical expressions are derived for calculating the optimal sizes of any number of DGs simultaneously. Since neither optimizing the location nor optimizing the size is done iteratively, like existing methods do, the simulation time is reduced considerably. The exhaustive method is used to find the operational power factor, and it is shown with the results that the losses are further reduced and voltage profile is improved by operating the DGs at operational power factor. Results for power loss reduction and voltage profile improvement in IEEE 37 and 119 node radial distribution systems are presented and compared with the the loss sensitivity factor (LSF) method, improved analytical (IA) and exhaustive load flow method (ELF). The comparison for operational power factor and other power factors is also presented.
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Αλέξανδρος Γ. Σφακιανάκης Medicine by Alexandros G. Sfakianakis,Anapafseos 5 Agios Nikolaos 72100 Crete Greece,00302841026182,0030693260717...
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heory of COVID-19 pathogenesis Publication date: November 2020Source: Medical Hypotheses, Volume 144Author(s): Yuichiro J. Suzuki ScienceD...
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