Efficient computation of the joint sample frequency spectra for multiple populations

PubMed Central

Kamm, John A.; Terhorst, Jonathan; Song, Yun S.

2016-01-01

A wide range of studies in population genetics have employed the sample frequency spectrum (SFS), a summary statistic which describes the distribution of mutant alleles at a polymorphic site in a sample of DNA sequences and provides a highly efficient dimensional reduction of large-scale population genomic variation data. Recently, there has been much interest in analyzing the joint SFS data from multiple populations to infer parameters of complex demographic histories, including variable population sizes, population split times, migration rates, admixture proportions, and so on. SFS-based inference methods require accurate computation of the expected SFS under a given demographic model. Although much methodological progress has been made, existing methods suffer from numerical instability and high computational complexity when multiple populations are involved and the sample size is large. In this paper, we present new analytic formulas and algorithms that enable accurate, efficient computation of the expected joint SFS for thousands of individuals sampled from hundreds of populations related by a complex demographic model with arbitrary population size histories (including piecewise-exponential growth). Our results are implemented in a new software package called momi (MOran Models for Inference). Through an empirical study we demonstrate our improvements to numerical stability and computational complexity. PMID:28239248

Relative efficiency of joint-model and full-conditional-specification multiple imputation when conditional models are compatible: The general location model.

PubMed

Seaman, Shaun R; Hughes, Rachael A

2018-06-01

Estimating the parameters of a regression model of interest is complicated by missing data on the variables in that model. Multiple imputation is commonly used to handle these missing data. Joint model multiple imputation and full-conditional specification multiple imputation are known to yield imputed data with the same asymptotic distribution when the conditional models of full-conditional specification are compatible with that joint model. We show that this asymptotic equivalence of imputation distributions does not imply that joint model multiple imputation and full-conditional specification multiple imputation will also yield asymptotically equally efficient inference about the parameters of the model of interest, nor that they will be equally robust to misspecification of the joint model. When the conditional models used by full-conditional specification multiple imputation are linear, logistic and multinomial regressions, these are compatible with a restricted general location joint model. We show that multiple imputation using the restricted general location joint model can be substantially more asymptotically efficient than full-conditional specification multiple imputation, but this typically requires very strong associations between variables. When associations are weaker, the efficiency gain is small. Moreover, full-conditional specification multiple imputation is shown to be potentially much more robust than joint model multiple imputation using the restricted general location model to mispecification of that model when there is substantial missingness in the outcome variable.

Multifocal Tubercular Dactylitis: A Rare Presentation of Skeletal Tuberculosis in an Adult.

PubMed

Thatoi, Pravat; Parida, Manoj; Barik, Rakesh; Das, Bidyut

2017-06-01

Tubercular dactylitis is an uncommon form of osteo-articular tuberculosis seen in children. Multifocal involvement, simultaneously involving hands and feet is extremely uncommon. Here we report an adult patient with tubercular dactylitis involving multiple digits of both hands and second digit of right foot in absence of any risk factors like immunodeficiency or any debilitating condition. The patient was successfully treated with anti-tubercular drugs for six months. Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection of bones and joints can present in an unusual way but early diagnosis and treatment caries a good prognosis.

Joint and fascial chronic graft-vs-host disease: correlations with clinical and laboratory parameters

PubMed Central

Vukić, Tamara; Smith, Sean Robinson; Ljubas Kelečić, Dina; Desnica, Lana; Prenc, Ema; Pulanić, Dražen; Vrhovac, Radovan; Nemet, Damir; Pavletic, Steven Z.

2016-01-01

Aim To determine if there are correlations between joint and fascial chronic graft-vs-host disease (cGVHD) with clinical findings, laboratory parameters, and measures of functional capacity. Methods 29 patients were diagnosed with cGVHD based on National Institutes of Health (NIH) Consensus Criteria at the University Hospital Centre Zagreb from October 2013 to October 2015. Physical examination, including functional measures such as 2-minute walk test and hand grip strength, as well as laboratory tests were performed. The relationship between these evaluations and the severity of joint and fascial cGVHD was tested by logistical regression analysis. Results 12 of 29 patients (41.3%) had joint and fascial cGVHD diagnosed according to NIH Consensus Criteria. There was a significant positive correlation of joint and fascial cGVHD and skin cGVHD (P < 0.001), serum C3 complement level (P = 0.045), and leukocytes (P = 0.032). There was a significant negative correlation between 2-minute walk test (P = 0.016), percentage of cytotoxic T cells CD3+/CD8+ (P = 0.022), serum albumin (P = 0.047), and Karnofsky score (P < 0.001). Binary logistic regression model found that a significant predictor for joint and fascial cGVHD was cGVHD skin involvement (odds ratio, 7.79; 95 confidence interval 1.87-32.56; P = 0.005). Conclusion Joint and fascial cGVHD manifestations correlated with multiple laboratory measurements, clinical features, and cGVHD skin involvement, which was a significant predictor for joint and fascial cGVHD. PMID:27374828

Biomechanical loading on the upper extremity increases from single key tapping to directional tapping.

PubMed

Qin, Jin; Trudeau, Matthieu; Katz, Jeffrey N; Buchholz, Bryan; Dennerlein, Jack T

2011-08-01

Musculoskeletal disorders associated with computer use span the joints of the upper extremity. Computing typically involves tapping in multiple directions. Thus, we sought to describe the loading on the finger, wrist, elbow and shoulder joints in terms of kinematic and kinetic difference across single key switch tapping to directional tapping on multiple keys. An experiment with repeated measures design was conducted. Six subjects tapped with their right index finger on a stand-alone number keypad placed horizontally in three conditions: (1) on single key switch (the number key 5); (2) left and right on number key 4 and 6; (3) top and bottom on number key 8 and 2. A force-torque transducer underneath the keypad measured the fingertip force. An active-marker infrared motion analysis system measured the kinematics of the fingertip, hand, forearm, upper arm and torso. Joint moments for the metacarpophalangeal, wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints were estimated using inverse dynamics. Tapping in the top-bottom orientation introduced the largest biomechanical loading on the upper extremity especially for the proximal joint, followed by tapping in the left-right orientation, and the lowest loading was observed during single key switch tapping. Directional tapping on average increased the fingertip force, joint excursion, and peak-to-peak joint torque by 45%, 190% and 55%, respectively. Identifying the biomechanical loading patterns associated with these fundamental movements of keying improves the understanding of the risks of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders for computer keyboard users. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Progressive Damage Analysis of Bonded Composite Joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leone, Frank A., Jr.; Girolamo, Donato; Davila, Carlos G.

2012-01-01

The present work is related to the development and application of progressive damage modeling techniques to bonded joint technology. The joint designs studied in this work include a conventional composite splice joint and a NASA-patented durable redundant joint. Both designs involve honeycomb sandwich structures with carbon/epoxy facesheets joined using adhesively bonded doublers.Progressive damage modeling allows for the prediction of the initiation and evolution of damage within a structure. For structures that include multiple material systems, such as the joint designs under consideration, the number of potential failure mechanisms that must be accounted for drastically increases the complexity of the analyses. Potential failure mechanisms include fiber fracture, intraply matrix cracking, delamination, core crushing, adhesive failure, and their interactions. The bonded joints were modeled using highly parametric, explicitly solved finite element models, with damage modeling implemented via custom user-written subroutines. Each ply was discretely meshed using three-dimensional solid elements. Layers of cohesive elements were included between each ply to account for the possibility of delaminations and were used to model the adhesive layers forming the joint. Good correlation with experimental results was achieved both in terms of load-displacement history and the predicted failure mechanism(s).

Empirical evaluation of the inter-relationship of articular elements involved in the pathoanatomy of knee osteoarthritis using magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Meredith, Dennis S; Losina, Elena; Neumann, Gesa; Yoshioka, Hiroshi; Lang, Philipp K; Katz, Jeffrey N

2009-10-29

In this cross-sectional study, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of all articular elements that could be measured using knee MRI. We assessed the association of pathological change in multiple articular structures involved in the pathoanatomy of osteoarthritis. Knee MRI scans from patients over 45 years old were assessed using a semi-quantitative knee MRI assessment form. The form included six distinct elements: cartilage, bone marrow lesions, osteophytes, subchondral sclerosis, joint effusion and synovitis. Each type of pathology was graded using an ordinal scale with a value of zero indicating no pathology and higher values indicating increasingly severe levels of pathology. The principal dependent variable for comparison was the mean cartilage disease score (CDS), which captured the aggregate extent of involvement of articular cartilage. The distribution of CDS was compared to the individual and cumulative distributions of each articular element using the Chi-squared test. The correlations between pathological change in the various articular structures were assessed in a Spearman correlation table. Data from 140 patients were available for review. The cohort had a median age of 61 years (range 45-89) and was 61% female. The cohort included a wide spectrum of OA severity. Our analysis showed a statistically significant trend towards pathological change involving more articular elements as CDS worsened (p-value for trend < 0.0001). Comparison of CDS to change in the severity of pathology of individual articular elements showed statistically significant trends towards more severe pathology as CDS worsened for osteophytes (p-value for trend < 0.0001), bone marrow lesions (p = 0.0003), and subchondral sclerosis (p = 0.009), but not joint effusion or synovitis. There was a moderate correlation between cartilage damage, osteophytes and BMLs as well as a moderate correlation between joint effusion and synovitis. However, cartilage damage and osteophytes were only weakly associated with synovitis or joint effusion. Our results support an inter-relationship of multiple articular elements in the pathoanatomy of knee OA. Prospective studies of OA pathogenesis in humans are needed to correlate these findings to clinically relevant outcomes such as pain and function.

XML Encoding of Features Describing Rule-Based Modeling of Reaction Networks with Multi-Component Molecular Complexes

PubMed Central

Blinov, Michael L.; Moraru, Ion I.

2011-01-01

Multi-state molecules and multi-component complexes are commonly involved in cellular signaling. Accounting for molecules that have multiple potential states, such as a protein that may be phosphorylated on multiple residues, and molecules that combine to form heterogeneous complexes located among multiple compartments, generates an effect of combinatorial complexity. Models involving relatively few signaling molecules can include thousands of distinct chemical species. Several software tools (StochSim, BioNetGen) are already available to deal with combinatorial complexity. Such tools need information standards if models are to be shared, jointly evaluated and developed. Here we discuss XML conventions that can be adopted for modeling biochemical reaction networks described by user-specified reaction rules. These could form a basis for possible future extensions of the Systems Biology Markup Language (SBML). PMID:21464833

Sarcoidosis-lymphoma syndrome.

PubMed

Brandy-García, Anahy M; Caminal-Montero, Luis; Fernández-García, María Soledad; Saiz Ayala, Angel; Cabezas-Rodríguez, Ivan; Morante-Bolado, Isla

A 65 year-old female with a history of sarcoidosis with pulmonary and joint involvement, who after 5 years of diagnosis begins with central nervous system involvement manifesting as diplopia. She presents normal analysis results. In imaging results, a mass is identified in the right intraconal space; it depends of right optic nerve, and shows multiple lymph node involvement. Biopsy was performed diagnosed with large B-cell lymphoma, an atypical form of tumor associated with sarcoidosis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Progressive Damage Modeling of Durable Bonded Joint Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leone, Frank A.; Davila, Carlos G.; Lin, Shih-Yung; Smeltzer, Stan; Girolamo, Donato; Ghose, Sayata; Guzman, Juan C.; McCarville, Duglas A.

2013-01-01

The development of durable bonded joint technology for assembling composite structures for launch vehicles is being pursued for the U.S. Space Launch System. The present work is related to the development and application of progressive damage modeling techniques to bonded joint technology applicable to a wide range of sandwich structures for a Heavy Lift Launch Vehicle. The joint designs studied in this work include a conventional composite splice joint and a NASA-patented Durable Redundant Joint. Both designs involve a honeycomb sandwich with carbon/epoxy facesheets joined with adhesively bonded doublers. Progressive damage modeling allows for the prediction of the initiation and evolution of damage. For structures that include multiple materials, the number of potential failure mechanisms that must be considered increases the complexity of the analyses. Potential failure mechanisms include fiber fracture, matrix cracking, delamination, core crushing, adhesive failure, and their interactions. The joints were modeled using Abaqus parametric finite element models, in which damage was modeled with user-written subroutines. Each ply was meshed discretely, and layers of cohesive elements were used to account for delaminations and to model the adhesive layers. Good correlation with experimental results was achieved both in terms of load-displacement history and predicted failure mechanisms.

Collagenase Treatment in Dupuytren Contractures: A Review of the Current State Versus Future Needs.

PubMed

Degreef, Ilse

2016-06-01

Dupuytren disease is highly prevalent and the finger contractures can be very extensile, compromising the patients' hand function. To restore full function, contractures have been addressed by cutting the causative strands for nearly 200 years, ever since Baron Guillaume Dupuytren demonstrated his technique at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Surgery can be minimal (fasciotomy) or quite invasive (fasciectomy and even skin replacement). However, in the last decade translational research has introduced the non-surgical technique of enzymatic fasciotomy with collagenase injections. Now, finger contractures can be released with single injections on monthly intervals, to address one joint contracture at a time. However, in hands affected with Dupuytren contractures to the extent that the patient calls for treatment, most often more than one joint is involved. In surgical treatment options all contracted joints are addressed in a single procedure. Nevertheless, extensile surgery withholds inherent risks of complications and intense rehabilitation. Today, the minimally-invasive method with enzymatic fasciotomy by collagenase injection has demonstrated reliable outcomes with few morbidities and early recovery. However, single-site injection is todays' standard procedure and multiple joints are addressed in several sessions with monthly intervals. This triggers a longer recovery and treatment burden in severely affected hands even though surgery is avoided. Therefore, further treatment modalities of collagenase use are explored. Adjustments in the treatment regimes' flexibility and collagenase injections addressing more than one joint contracture simultaneously will improve the burden of multiple sessions and, therefore, enzymatic fasciotomy may become the preferred method in more extensile Dupuytren contractures. In this independent review, the challenge of Dupuytren disease affecting a single versus multiple joints is presented. The pros and cons of collagenase use are weighed, founded by the available scientific background. The demands and options for collagenase in future treatment regimens for extensile Dupuytren contractures are discussed.

Lithological and Surface Geometry Joint Inversions Using Multi-Objective Global Optimization Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lelièvre, Peter; Bijani, Rodrigo; Farquharson, Colin

2016-04-01

Geologists' interpretations about the Earth typically involve distinct rock units with contacts (interfaces) between them. In contrast, standard minimum-structure geophysical inversions are performed on meshes of space-filling cells (typically prisms or tetrahedra) and recover smoothly varying physical property distributions that are inconsistent with typical geological interpretations. There are several approaches through which mesh-based minimum-structure geophysical inversion can help recover models with some of the desired characteristics. However, a more effective strategy may be to consider two fundamentally different types of inversions: lithological and surface geometry inversions. A major advantage of these two inversion approaches is that joint inversion of multiple types of geophysical data is greatly simplified. In a lithological inversion, the subsurface is discretized into a mesh and each cell contains a particular rock type. A lithological model must be translated to a physical property model before geophysical data simulation. Each lithology may map to discrete property values or there may be some a priori probability density function associated with the mapping. Through this mapping, lithological inverse problems limit the parameter domain and consequently reduce the non-uniqueness from that presented by standard mesh-based inversions that allow physical property values on continuous ranges. Furthermore, joint inversion is greatly simplified because no additional mathematical coupling measure is required in the objective function to link multiple physical property models. In a surface geometry inversion, the model comprises wireframe surfaces representing contacts between rock units. This parameterization is then fully consistent with Earth models built by geologists, which in 3D typically comprise wireframe contact surfaces of tessellated triangles. As for the lithological case, the physical properties of the units lying between the contact surfaces are set to a priori values. The inversion is tasked with calculating the geometry of the contact surfaces instead of some piecewise distribution of properties in a mesh. Again, no coupling measure is required and joint inversion is simplified. Both of these inverse problems involve high nonlinearity and discontinuous or non-obtainable derivatives. They can also involve the existence of multiple minima. Hence, one can not apply the standard descent-based local minimization methods used to solve typical minimum-structure inversions. Instead, we are applying Pareto multi-objective global optimization (PMOGO) methods, which generate a suite of solutions that minimize multiple objectives (e.g. data misfits and regularization terms) in a Pareto-optimal sense. Providing a suite of models, as opposed to a single model that minimizes a weighted sum of objectives, allows a more complete assessment of the possibilities and avoids the often difficult choice of how to weight each objective. While there are definite advantages to PMOGO joint inversion approaches, the methods come with significantly increased computational requirements. We are researching various strategies to ameliorate these computational issues including parallelization and problem dimension reduction.

Inflammatory arthritis mimicking Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in a child: A case report.

PubMed

Egilmez, Zeliha; Turgut, Selin Turan; Icagasioglu, Afitap; Bicakci, Irem

2016-01-01

Joint complaints in childhood are seen frequently and differential diagnosis can be difficult. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatological disease of childhood. It involves peripheral joint arthritis, chronic synovitis, and extra-articular manifestations. Accurate diagnosis can take a long time and sometimes multiple diagnoses are used while following the patient until a final diagnosis can be reached. Arthritis may be triggered by trauma and confused with other diseases like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), in which trauma plays a role in the etiology. In the present case, ankle pain in an 8-year-old girl was misdiagnosed as CRPS.

Multiple pass and multiple layer friction stir welding and material enhancement processes

DOEpatents

Feng, Zhili [Knoxville, TN; David, Stan A [Knoxville, TN; Frederick, David Alan [Harriman, TN

2010-07-27

Processes for friction stir welding, typically for comparatively thick plate materials using multiple passes and multiple layers of a friction stir welding tool. In some embodiments a first portion of a fabrication preform and a second portion of the fabrication preform are placed adjacent to each other to form a joint, and there may be a groove adjacent the joint. The joint is welded and then, where a groove exists, a filler may be disposed in the groove, and the seams between the filler and the first and second portions of the fabrication preform may be friction stir welded. In some embodiments two portions of a fabrication preform are abutted to form a joint, where the joint may, for example, be a lap joint, a bevel joint or a butt joint. In some embodiments a plurality of passes of a friction stir welding tool may be used, with some passes welding from one side of a fabrication preform and other passes welding from the other side of the fabrication preform.

Improving joint pain and function in osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Owens, Claire; Conaghan, Philip G

2016-12-01

Osteoarthritis has become a major chronic pain condition. It affects more than 10% of adults and accounts for almost 10% of health service resources. The impact of osteoarthritis is amplified by underuse of effective muscle strengthening exercises and a focus on often less effective and poorly tolerated analgesic therapies. Although traditionally considered to be primarily a disease of cartilage, there is now ample evidence that typical clinical osteoarthritis involves multiple tissue pathologies. Increased BMI is associated with a higher incidence of knee osteoarthritis. Anatomical abnormalities such as valgus alignment or previous joint trauma including meniscectomy, anterior cruciate ligament rupture and fracture through the joint are also associated with increased incidence of osteoarthritis. Pain is the main presenting symptom. However, we still have a poor understanding of the causes of pain in osteoarthritis. In patients aged 45 or over the diagnosis should be made clinically without investigations if the patient has activity-related joint pain in addition to early morning joint stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes. Muscle strengthening and aerobic exercise have been shown to improve joint pain and function. Weight loss not only improves joint pain and function but has a myriad of other health benefits, reducing the incidence of lifestyle associated diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, and mechanical stress on the joints.

Active Joint Mechanism Driven by Multiple Actuators Made of Flexible Bags: A Proposal of Dual Structural Actuator

PubMed Central

Inou, Norio

2013-01-01

An actuator is required to change its speed and force depending on the situation. Using multiple actuators for one driving axis is one of the possible solutions; however, there is an associated problem of output power matching. This study proposes a new active joint mechanism using multiple actuators. Because the actuator is made of a flexible bag, it does not interfere with other actuators when it is depressurized. The proposed joint achieved coordinated motion of multiple actuators. This report also discusses a new actuator which has dual cylindrical structure. The cylinders are composed of flexible bags with different diameters. The joint torque is estimated based on the following factors: empirical formula for the flexible actuator torque, geometric relationship between the joint and the actuator, and the principle of virtual work. The prototype joint mechanism achieves coordinated motion of multiple actuators for one axis. With this motion, small inner actuator contributes high speed motion, whereas large outer actuator generates high torque. The performance of the prototype joint is examined by speed and torque measurements. The joint showed about 30% efficiency at 2.0 Nm load torque under 0.15 MPa air input. PMID:24385868

Active joint mechanism driven by multiple actuators made of flexible bags: a proposal of dual structural actuator.

PubMed

Kimura, Hitoshi; Matsuzaki, Takuya; Kataoka, Mokutaro; Inou, Norio

2013-01-01

An actuator is required to change its speed and force depending on the situation. Using multiple actuators for one driving axis is one of the possible solutions; however, there is an associated problem of output power matching. This study proposes a new active joint mechanism using multiple actuators. Because the actuator is made of a flexible bag, it does not interfere with other actuators when it is depressurized. The proposed joint achieved coordinated motion of multiple actuators. This report also discusses a new actuator which has dual cylindrical structure. The cylinders are composed of flexible bags with different diameters. The joint torque is estimated based on the following factors: empirical formula for the flexible actuator torque, geometric relationship between the joint and the actuator, and the principle of virtual work. The prototype joint mechanism achieves coordinated motion of multiple actuators for one axis. With this motion, small inner actuator contributes high speed motion, whereas large outer actuator generates high torque. The performance of the prototype joint is examined by speed and torque measurements. The joint showed about 30% efficiency at 2.0 Nm load torque under 0.15 MPa air input.

Causal mediation analysis with multiple causally non-ordered mediators.

PubMed

Taguri, Masataka; Featherstone, John; Cheng, Jing

2018-01-01

In many health studies, researchers are interested in estimating the treatment effects on the outcome around and through an intermediate variable. Such causal mediation analyses aim to understand the mechanisms that explain the treatment effect. Although multiple mediators are often involved in real studies, most of the literature considered mediation analyses with one mediator at a time. In this article, we consider mediation analyses when there are causally non-ordered multiple mediators. Even if the mediators do not affect each other, the sum of two indirect effects through the two mediators considered separately may diverge from the joint natural indirect effect when there are additive interactions between the effects of the two mediators on the outcome. Therefore, we derive an equation for the joint natural indirect effect based on the individual mediation effects and their interactive effect, which helps us understand how the mediation effect works through the two mediators and relative contributions of the mediators and their interaction. We also discuss an extension for three mediators. The proposed method is illustrated using data from a randomized trial on the prevention of dental caries.

Internalization, Trafficking, Intracellular Processing and Actions of Antibody-Drug Conjugates.

PubMed

Xu, Shi

2015-11-01

This review discusses the molecular mechanism involved in the targeting and delivery of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), the new class of biopharmaceuticals mainly designed for targeted cancer therapy. this review goes over major progress in preclinical and clinical studies of ADCs, in the past 5 years. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of ADCs involve multiple mechanisms, including internalization of ADCs by target cells, intracellular trafficking, release of conjugated drugs, and payload. These mechanisms actually jointly determine the efficacy of ADCs. Therefore, the optimization of ADCs should take them as necessary rationales.

Joint Models of Longitudinal and Time-to-Event Data with More Than One Event Time Outcome: A Review.

PubMed

Hickey, Graeme L; Philipson, Pete; Jorgensen, Andrea; Kolamunnage-Dona, Ruwanthi

2018-01-31

Methodological development and clinical application of joint models of longitudinal and time-to-event outcomes have grown substantially over the past two decades. However, much of this research has concentrated on a single longitudinal outcome and a single event time outcome. In clinical and public health research, patients who are followed up over time may often experience multiple, recurrent, or a succession of clinical events. Models that utilise such multivariate event time outcomes are quite valuable in clinical decision-making. We comprehensively review the literature for implementation of joint models involving more than a single event time per subject. We consider the distributional and modelling assumptions, including the association structure, estimation approaches, software implementations, and clinical applications. Research into this area is proving highly promising, but to-date remains in its infancy.

Temporomandibular joint involvement as a positive clinical prognostic factor in necrotising external otitis.

PubMed

Yeheskeli, E; Eta, R Abu; Gavriel, H; Kleid, S; Eviatar, E

2016-05-01

Necrotising otitis externa is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. This study investigated whether temporomandibular joint involvement had any prognostic effect on the course of necrotising otitis externa in patients who had undergone hyperbaric oxygen therapy after failed medical and sometimes surgical therapy. A retrospective case series was conducted of patients in whom antibiotic treatment and surgery had failed, who had been hospitalised for further treatment and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Twenty-three patients with necrotising otitis externa were identified. The temporomandibular joint was involved in four patients (17 per cent); these patients showed a constant gradual improvement in C-reactive protein and were eventually discharged free of disease, except one patient who was lost to follow up. Four patients (16 per cent) without temporomandibular joint involvement died within 90 days of discharge, while all patients with temporomandibular joint involvement were alive. Three patients (13 per cent) without temporomandibular joint involvement needed recurrent hospitalisation including further hyperbaric oxygen therapy; no patients with temporomandibular joint involvement required such treatment. Patients with temporomandibular joint involvement had lower rates of recurrent disease and no mortality. Therefore, we suggest considering temporomandibular joint involvement as a positive prognostic factor in necrotising otitis externa management.

Interprofessional approach for teaching functional knee joint anatomy.

PubMed

Meyer, Jakob J; Obmann, Markus M; Gießler, Marianne; Schuldis, Dominik; Brückner, Ann-Kathrin; Strohm, Peter C; Sandeck, Florian; Spittau, Björn

2017-03-01

Profound knowledge in functional and clinical anatomy is a prerequisite for efficient diagnosis in medical practice. However, anatomy teaching does not always consider functional and clinical aspects. Here we introduce a new interprofessional approach to effectively teach the anatomy of the knee joint. The presented teaching approach involves anatomists, orthopaedists and physical therapists to teach anatomy of the knee joint in small groups under functional and clinical aspects. The knee joint courses were implemented during early stages of the medical curriculum and medical students were grouped with students of physical therapy to sensitize students to the importance of interprofessional work. Evaluation results clearly demonstrate that medical students and physical therapy students appreciated this teaching approach. First evaluations of following curricular anatomy exams suggest a benefit of course participants in knee-related multiple choice questions. Together, the interprofessional approach presented here proves to be a suitable approach to teach functional and clinical anatomy of the knee joint and further trains interprofessional work between prospective physicians and physical therapists as a basis for successful healthcare management. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.

Computer-aided classification of rheumatoid arthritis in finger joints using frequency domain optical tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klose, C. D.; Kim, H. K.; Netz, U.; Blaschke, S.; Zwaka, P. A.; Mueller, G. A.; Beuthan, J.; Hielscher, A. H.

2009-02-01

Novel methods that can help in the diagnosis and monitoring of joint disease are essential for efficient use of novel arthritis therapies that are currently emerging. Building on previous studies that involved continuous wave imaging systems we present here first clinical data obtained with a new frequency-domain imaging system. Three-dimensional tomographic data sets of absorption and scattering coefficients were generated for 107 fingers. The data were analyzed using ANOVA, MANOVA, Discriminant Analysis DA, and a machine-learning algorithm that is based on self-organizing mapping (SOM) for clustering data in 2-dimensional parameter spaces. Overall we found that the SOM algorithm outperforms the more traditional analysis methods in terms of correctly classifying finger joints. Using SOM, healthy and affected joints can now be separated with a sensitivity of 0.97 and specificity of 0.91. Furthermore, preliminary results suggest that if a combination of multiple image properties is used, statistical significant differences can be found between RA-affected finger joints that show different clinical features (e.g. effusion, synovitis or erosion).

Root Cause Investigation of Lead-Free Solder Joint Interfacial Failures After Multiple Reflows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yan; Hatch, Olen; Liu, Pilin; Goyal, Deepak

2017-03-01

Solder joint interconnects in three-dimensional (3D) packages with package stacking configurations typically must undergo multiple reflow cycles during the assembly process. In this work, interfacial open joint failures between the bulk solder and the intermetallic compound (IMC) layer were found in Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) solder joints connecting a small package to a large package after multiple reflow reliability tests. Systematic progressive 3D x-ray computed tomography experiments were performed on both incoming and assembled parts to reveal the initiation and evolution of the open failures in the same solder joints before and after the reliability tests. Characterization studies, including focused ion beam cross-sections, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, were conducted to determine the correlation between IMC phase transformation and failure initiation in the solder joints. A comprehensive failure mechanism, along with solution paths for the solder joint interfacial failures after multiple reflow cycles, is discussed in detail.

An algorithm for continuum modeling of rocks with multiple embedded nonlinearly-compliant joints [Continuum modeling of elasto-plastic media with multiple embedded nonlinearly-compliant joints

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hurley, R. C.; Vorobiev, O. Y.; Ezzedine, S. M.

Here, we present a numerical method for modeling the mechanical effects of nonlinearly-compliant joints in elasto-plastic media. The method uses a series of strain-rate and stress update algorithms to determine joint closure, slip, and solid stress within computational cells containing multiple “embedded” joints. This work facilitates efficient modeling of nonlinear wave propagation in large spatial domains containing a large number of joints that affect bulk mechanical properties. We implement the method within the massively parallel Lagrangian code GEODYN-L and provide verification and examples. We highlight the ability of our algorithms to capture joint interactions and multiple weakness planes within individualmore » computational cells, as well as its computational efficiency. We also discuss the motivation for developing the proposed technique: to simulate large-scale wave propagation during the Source Physics Experiments (SPE), a series of underground explosions conducted at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS).« less

An algorithm for continuum modeling of rocks with multiple embedded nonlinearly-compliant joints [Continuum modeling of elasto-plastic media with multiple embedded nonlinearly-compliant joints

DOE PAGES

Hurley, R. C.; Vorobiev, O. Y.; Ezzedine, S. M.

2017-04-06

Here, we present a numerical method for modeling the mechanical effects of nonlinearly-compliant joints in elasto-plastic media. The method uses a series of strain-rate and stress update algorithms to determine joint closure, slip, and solid stress within computational cells containing multiple “embedded” joints. This work facilitates efficient modeling of nonlinear wave propagation in large spatial domains containing a large number of joints that affect bulk mechanical properties. We implement the method within the massively parallel Lagrangian code GEODYN-L and provide verification and examples. We highlight the ability of our algorithms to capture joint interactions and multiple weakness planes within individualmore » computational cells, as well as its computational efficiency. We also discuss the motivation for developing the proposed technique: to simulate large-scale wave propagation during the Source Physics Experiments (SPE), a series of underground explosions conducted at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS).« less

Evaluating Suit Fit Using Performance Degradation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Margerum, Sarah E.; Cowley, Matthew; Harvill, Lauren; Benson, Elizabeth; Rajulu, Sudhakar

2011-01-01

The Mark III suit has multiple sizes of suit components (arm, leg, and gloves) as well as sizing inserts to tailor the fit of the suit to an individual. This study sought to determine a way to identify the point an ideal suit fit transforms into a bad fit and how to quantify this breakdown using mobility-based physical performance data. This study examined the changes in human physical performance via degradation of the elbow and wrist range of motion of the planetary suit prototype (Mark III) with respect to changes in sizing and as well as how to apply that knowledge to suit sizing options and improvements in suit fit. The methods implemented in this study focused on changes in elbow and wrist mobility due to incremental suit sizing modifications. This incremental sizing was within a range that included both optimum and poor fit. Suited range of motion data was collected using a motion analysis system for nine isolated and functional tasks encompassing the elbow and wrist joints. A total of four subjects were tested with motions involving both arms simultaneously as well as the right arm only. The results were then compared across sizing configurations. The results of this study indicate that range of motion may be used as a viable parameter to quantify at what stage suit sizing causes a detriment in performance; however the human performance decrement appeared to be based on the interaction of multiple joints along a limb, not a single joint angle. The study was able to identify a preliminary method to quantify the impact of size on performance and to develop a means to gauge tolerances around optimal size. More work is needed to improve the assessment of optimal fit and to compensate for multiple joint interactions.

Joint FACET: the Canada-Netherlands initiative to study multisensor data fusion systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosse, Eloi; Theil, Arne; Roy, Jean; Huizing, Albert G.; van Aartsen, Simon

1998-09-01

This paper presents the progress of a collaborative effort between Canada and The Netherlands in analyzing multi-sensor data fusion systems, e.g. for potential application to their respective frigates. In view of the overlapping interest in studying and comparing applicability and performance and advanced state-of-the-art Multi-Sensor Data FUsion (MSDF) techniques, the two research establishments involved have decided to join their efforts in the development of MSDF testbeds. This resulted in the so-called Joint-FACET, a highly modular and flexible series of applications that is capable of processing both real and synthetic input data. Joint-FACET allows the user to create and edit test scenarios with multiple ships, sensor and targets, generate realistic sensor outputs, and to process these outputs with a variety of MSDF algorithms. These MSDF algorithms can also be tested using typical experimental data collected during live military exercises.

Arthroscopic Synovectomy of Wrist in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

PubMed

Shim, Jae Woo; Park, Min Jong

2017-11-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disorder affecting multiple joints. Wrist involvement is common. Patients with persistent symptoms despite medical management are candidates for surgery. Synovectomy can provide pain relief and functional improvement for rheumatoid wrist. Arthroscopic synovectomy is a safe and reliable method, with minimal postoperative morbidity. This article reviews the role, technique, and results of arthroscopic synovectomy in the rheumatoid wrist. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Parameter Estimation of Multiple Frequency-Hopping Signals with Two Sensors

PubMed Central

Pan, Jin; Ma, Boyuan

2018-01-01

This paper essentially focuses on parameter estimation of multiple wideband emitting sources with time-varying frequencies, such as two-dimensional (2-D) direction of arrival (DOA) and signal sorting, with a low-cost circular synthetic array (CSA) consisting of only two rotating sensors. Our basic idea is to decompose the received data, which is a superimposition of phase measurements from multiple sources into separated groups and separately estimate the DOA associated with each source. Motivated by joint parameter estimation, we propose to adopt the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm in this paper; our method involves two steps, namely, the expectation-step (E-step) and the maximization (M-step). In the E-step, the correspondence of each signal with its emitting source is found. Then, in the M-step, the maximum-likelihood (ML) estimates of the DOA parameters are obtained. These two steps are iteratively and alternatively executed to jointly determine the DOAs and sort multiple signals. Closed-form DOA estimation formulae are developed by ML estimation based on phase data, which also realize an optimal estimation. Directional ambiguity is also addressed by another ML estimation method based on received complex responses. The Cramer-Rao lower bound is derived for understanding the estimation accuracy and performance comparison. The verification of the proposed method is demonstrated with simulations. PMID:29617323

Multiple myxoid cysts secondary to occupation.

PubMed

Connolly, M; de Berker, D A R

2006-05-01

We report the case of a 50-year-old woman who presented with eight digital myxoid cysts (DMCs) involving the fingers of both hands. They developed within 12 months of the patient starting a job that involved pushing a garment into an embroidery mould, thus exerting a downward force on the fingertips. The pressure exerted from this force could have potentially damaged the joint synovial capsule, leading to rupture and loss of synovial gel, thus inducing myxoid cysts. This case suggests that DMCs may be related to occupation, and to our knowledge, this is only the second reported case of occupationally induced DMCs.

Physical exam of the adolescent shoulder: tips for evaluating and diagnosing common shoulder disorders in the adolescent athlete.

PubMed

Lazaro, Lionel E; Cordasco, Frank A

2017-02-01

In the young athlete, the shoulder is one of the most frequently injured joints during sports activities. The injuries are either from an acute traumatic event or overuse. Shoulder examination can present some challenges; given the multiple joints involved, the difficulty palpating the underlying structures, and the potential to have both intra- and/or extra-articular problems. Many of the shoulder examination tests can be positive in multiple problems. They usually have high sensitivity but low specificity and therefore low predictive value. The medical history coupled with a detailed physical exam can usually provide the information necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis. A proficient shoulder examination and the development of an adequate differential diagnosis are important before considering advanced imaging. The shoulder complex relies upon the integrity of multiple structures for normal function. A detailed history is of paramount importance when evaluating young athletes with shoulder problems. A systematic physical examination is extremely important to guiding an accurate diagnosis. The patient's age and activity level are very important when considering the differential diagnosis. Findings obtain through history and physical examination should dictate the decision to obtain advanced imaging of the shoulder.

Characterisation of weld zone reactions in dissimilar glass-to-aluminium pulsed picosecond laser welds

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ciuca, Octav P., E-mail: octav.ciuca@manchester.ac

Precision welded joints, produced between fused silica glass and aluminium by a newly-developed picosecond-pulse laser technique, have been analysed for the first time using a full range of electron microscopy methods. The welds were produced as lap joints by focusing a 1.2 μm diameter laser beam through the transparent glass top sheet, slightly below the surface of the metal bottom sheet. Despite the extremely short interaction time, extensive reaction was observed in the weld zone, which involved the formation of nanocrystalline silicon and at least two transitional alumina phases, γ- and δ-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3}. The weld formation process was foundmore » to be complex and involved: the formation of a constrained plasma cavity at the joint interface, non-linear absorption in the glass, and the creation of multiple secondary keyholes in the metal substrate by beam scattering. The joint area was found to expand outside of the main interaction volume, as the energy absorbed into the low conductivity and higher melting point silica glass sheet melted the aluminium surface across a wider contact area. The reasons for the appearance of nanocrystalline Si and transitional alumina reaction products within the welds are discussed. - Highlights: •Pulsed laser welding of dissimilar materials causes extensive chemical reactivity. •Metastable Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} phases form due to laser-induced highly-transient thermal regime. •Fused silica is reduced by Al to form nanocrystalline Si. •Mechanism of joint formation is discussed.« less

Effects of multiple vein microjoints on the mechanical behaviour of dragonfly wings: numerical modelling

PubMed Central

Rajabi, H.; Ghoroubi, N.; Darvizeh, A.; Appel, E.; Gorb, S. N.

2016-01-01

Dragonfly wings are known as biological composites with high morphological complexity. They mainly consist of a network of rigid veins and flexible membranes, and enable insects to perform various flight manoeuvres. Although several studies have been done on the aerodynamic performance of Odonata wings and the mechanisms involved in their deformations, little is known about the influence of vein joints on the passive deformability of the wings in flight. In this article, we present the first three-dimensional finite-element models of five different vein joint combinations observed in Odonata wings. The results from the analysis of the models subjected to uniform pressures on their dorsal and ventral surfaces indicate the influence of spike-associated vein joints on the dorsoventral asymmetry of wing deformation. Our study also supports the idea that a single vein joint may result in different angular deformations when it is surrounded by different joint types. The developed numerical models also enabled us to simulate the camber formation and stress distribution in the models. The computational data further provide deeper insights into the functional role of resilin patches and spikes in vein joint structures. This study might help to more realistically model the complex structure of insect wings in order to design more efficient bioinspired micro-air vehicles in future. PMID:27069649

Joint Smoothed l₀-Norm DOA Estimation Algorithm for Multiple Measurement Vectors in MIMO Radar.

PubMed

Liu, Jing; Zhou, Weidong; Juwono, Filbert H

2017-05-08

Direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation is usually confronted with a multiple measurement vector (MMV) case. In this paper, a novel fast sparse DOA estimation algorithm, named the joint smoothed l 0 -norm algorithm, is proposed for multiple measurement vectors in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar. To eliminate the white or colored Gaussian noises, the new method first obtains a low-complexity high-order cumulants based data matrix. Then, the proposed algorithm designs a joint smoothed function tailored for the MMV case, based on which joint smoothed l 0 -norm sparse representation framework is constructed. Finally, for the MMV-based joint smoothed function, the corresponding gradient-based sparse signal reconstruction is designed, thus the DOA estimation can be achieved. The proposed method is a fast sparse representation algorithm, which can solve the MMV problem and perform well for both white and colored Gaussian noises. The proposed joint algorithm is about two orders of magnitude faster than the l 1 -norm minimization based methods, such as l 1 -SVD (singular value decomposition), RV (real-valued) l 1 -SVD and RV l 1 -SRACV (sparse representation array covariance vectors), and achieves better DOA estimation performance.

Sailing The Calm And Rough Seas: The Influence Of Wealth And Sovereignty In Southeast Asian Maritime Disputes

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

joint-development in the Gulf of Thailand; the Pedra Branca dispute between Singapore and Malaysia ; and recurring violence in the South China Sea...Singapore and Malaysia ; and recurring violence in the South China Sea, involving multiple states in the region. After analyzing the case studies...31  1.  Burma-India Agreement in the Andaman Sea ..........................31  2.  Indonesia- Malaysia Agreement in the

Influence of micro-oxidation on joints of C/C composites and GH3044 for large-size aerospace parts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shi, Xiaohong; Jin, Xiuxiu; Yan, Ningning; Yang, Li

2017-11-01

To improve the bonding strength of carbon/carbon (C/C) composites and GH3044 nickel-based superalloy, the bonding interlayer with Ti/Ni/Cu/Ni multiple foils were prepared by a two-step technique involving micro-oxidation and partial transient liquid phase (PTLP) process. Interface characteristics and mechanical behavior of joints were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), laser scanning confocal microscope (LSCM) and energy X-ray dispersive spectrometer (EDS). Results show that a porous layer on C/C composites is formed by micro-oxidation for more than 2 min at 1073 K in air, which provides a diffusion path for liquid phase to infiltrate into C/C substrate and generate a wedge interlocking interface. After micro-oxidation for 4 min, the shear strength of joints reaches 32.09 ± 1.98 MPa what is 36.73% higher than that of joints without micro-oxidation (23.47 ± 1.15 MPa). The increase of shear strength remarkably depends on physical interlocking and chemical bonding at porous interface.

Spinal circuits can accommodate interaction torques during multijoint limb movements.

PubMed

Buhrmann, Thomas; Di Paolo, Ezequiel A

2014-01-01

The dynamic interaction of limb segments during movements that involve multiple joints creates torques in one joint due to motion about another. Evidence shows that such interaction torques are taken into account during the planning or control of movement in humans. Two alternative hypotheses could explain the compensation of these dynamic torques. One involves the use of internal models to centrally compute predicted interaction torques and their explicit compensation through anticipatory adjustment of descending motor commands. The alternative, based on the equilibrium-point hypothesis, claims that descending signals can be simple and related to the desired movement kinematics only, while spinal feedback mechanisms are responsible for the appropriate creation and coordination of dynamic muscle forces. Partial supporting evidence exists in each case. However, until now no model has explicitly shown, in the case of the second hypothesis, whether peripheral feedback is really sufficient on its own for coordinating the motion of several joints while at the same time accommodating intersegmental interaction torques. Here we propose a minimal computational model to examine this question. Using a biomechanics simulation of a two-joint arm controlled by spinal neural circuitry, we show for the first time that it is indeed possible for the neuromusculoskeletal system to transform simple descending control signals into muscle activation patterns that accommodate interaction forces depending on their direction and magnitude. This is achieved without the aid of any central predictive signal. Even though the model makes various simplifications and abstractions compared to the complexities involved in the control of human arm movements, the finding lends plausibility to the hypothesis that some multijoint movements can in principle be controlled even in the absence of internal models of intersegmental dynamics or learned compensatory motor signals.

Mechanisms of Osteoarthritic Pain. Studies in Humans and Experimental Models

PubMed Central

Eitner, Annett; Hofmann, Gunther O.; Schaible, Hans-Georg

2017-01-01

Pain due to osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most frequent causes of chronic pain. However, the mechanisms of OA pain are poorly understood. This review addresses the mechanisms which are thought to be involved in OA pain, derived from studies on pain mechanisms in humans and in experimental models of OA. Three areas will be considered, namely local processes in the joint associated with OA pain, neuronal mechanisms involved in OA pain, and general factors which influence OA pain. Except the cartilage all structures of the joints are innervated by nociceptors. Although the hallmark of OA is the degradation of the cartilage, OA joints show multiple structural alterations of cartilage, bone and synovial tissue. In particular synovitis and bone marrow lesions have been proposed to determine OA pain whereas the contribution of the other pathologies to pain generation has been studied less. Concerning the peripheral neuronal mechanisms of OA pain, peripheral nociceptive sensitization was shown, and neuropathic mechanisms may be involved at some stages. Structural changes of joint innervation such as local loss and/or sprouting of nerve fibers were shown. In addition, central sensitization, reduction of descending inhibition, descending excitation and cortical atrophies were observed in OA. The combination of different neuronal mechanisms may define the particular pain phenotype in an OA patient. Among mediators involved in OA pain, nerve growth factor (NGF) is in the focus because antibodies against NGF significantly reduce OA pain. Several studies show that neutralization of interleukin-1β and TNF may reduce OA pain. Many patients with OA exhibit comorbidities such as obesity, low grade systemic inflammation and diabetes mellitus. These comorbidities can significantly influence the course of OA, and pain research just began to study the significance of such factors in pain generation. In addition, psychologic and socioeconomic factors may aggravate OA pain, and in some cases genetic factors influencing OA pain were found. Considering the local factors in the joint, the neuronal processes and the comorbidities, a better definition of OA pain phenotypes may become possible. Studies are under way in order to improve OA and OA pain monitoring. PMID:29163027

Reinforcement Learning of Two-Joint Virtual Arm Reaching in a Computer Model of Sensorimotor Cortex

PubMed Central

Neymotin, Samuel A.; Chadderdon, George L.; Kerr, Cliff C.; Francis, Joseph T.; Lytton, William W.

2014-01-01

Neocortical mechanisms of learning sensorimotor control involve a complex series of interactions at multiple levels, from synaptic mechanisms to cellular dynamics to network connectomics. We developed a model of sensory and motor neocortex consisting of 704 spiking model neurons. Sensory and motor populations included excitatory cells and two types of interneurons. Neurons were interconnected with AMPA/NMDA and GABAA synapses. We trained our model using spike-timing-dependent reinforcement learning to control a two-joint virtual arm to reach to a fixed target. For each of 125 trained networks, we used 200 training sessions, each involving 15 s reaches to the target from 16 starting positions. Learning altered network dynamics, with enhancements to neuronal synchrony and behaviorally relevant information flow between neurons. After learning, networks demonstrated retention of behaviorally relevant memories by using proprioceptive information to perform reach-to-target from multiple starting positions. Networks dynamically controlled which joint rotations to use to reach a target, depending on current arm position. Learning-dependent network reorganization was evident in both sensory and motor populations: learned synaptic weights showed target-specific patterning optimized for particular reach movements. Our model embodies an integrative hypothesis of sensorimotor cortical learning that could be used to interpret future electrophysiological data recorded in vivo from sensorimotor learning experiments. We used our model to make the following predictions: learning enhances synchrony in neuronal populations and behaviorally relevant information flow across neuronal populations, enhanced sensory processing aids task-relevant motor performance and the relative ease of a particular movement in vivo depends on the amount of sensory information required to complete the movement. PMID:24047323

45 CFR 1614.2 - General policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... the joint venture plan must meet the following conditions: (1) The recipients involved in the joint... § 1614.6; (2) Each recipient in the joint venture must be a bona fide participant in the activities undertaken by the joint venture; and (3) The joint PAI venture must provide an opportunity for involving...

Periprosthetic joint infection: are patients with multiple prosthetic joints at risk?

PubMed

Jafari, S Mehdi; Casper, David S; Restrepo, Camilo; Zmistowski, Benjamin; Parvizi, Javad; Sharkey, Peter F

2012-06-01

Patients who present with a periprosthetic joint infection in a single joint may have multiple prosthetic joints. The risk of these patients developing a subsequent infection in another prosthetic joint is unknown. Our purposes were (1) to identify the risk of developing a subsequent infection in another prosthetic joint and (2) to describe the time span and organism profile to the second prosthetic infection. We retrospectively identified 55 patients with periprosthetic joint infection who had another prosthetic joint in place at the time of presentation. Of the 55 patients, 11 (20%) developed a periprosthetic joint infection in a second joint. The type of organism was the same as the first infection in 4 (36%) of 11 patients. The time to developing a second infection averaged 2.0 years (range, 0-6.9 years). Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multi-hazard Assessment and Scenario Toolbox (MhAST): A Framework for Analyzing Compounding Effects of Multiple Hazards

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadegh, M.; Moftakhari, H.; AghaKouchak, A.

2017-12-01

Many natural hazards are driven by multiple forcing variables, and concurrence/consecutive extreme events significantly increases risk of infrastructure/system failure. It is a common practice to use univariate analysis based upon a perceived ruling driver to estimate design quantiles and/or return periods of extreme events. A multivariate analysis, however, permits modeling simultaneous occurrence of multiple forcing variables. In this presentation, we introduce the Multi-hazard Assessment and Scenario Toolbox (MhAST) that comprehensively analyzes marginal and joint probability distributions of natural hazards. MhAST also offers a wide range of scenarios of return period and design levels and their likelihoods. Contribution of this study is four-fold: 1. comprehensive analysis of marginal and joint probability of multiple drivers through 17 continuous distributions and 26 copulas, 2. multiple scenario analysis of concurrent extremes based upon the most likely joint occurrence, one ruling variable, and weighted random sampling of joint occurrences with similar exceedance probabilities, 3. weighted average scenario analysis based on a expected event, and 4. uncertainty analysis of the most likely joint occurrence scenario using a Bayesian framework.

Severe brachial plexopathy after an ultrasound-guided single-injection nerve block for total shoulder arthroplasty in a patient with multiple sclerosis.

PubMed

Koff, Matthew D; Cohen, Jeffrey A; McIntyre, John J; Carr, Charles F; Sites, Brian D

2008-02-01

DESPITE the known benefits of regional anesthesia for patients undergoing joint arthroplasty, the performance of peripheral nerve blocks in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) remains controversial. MS has traditionally been described as an isolated disease of the central nervous system, without involvement of the peripheral nerves, and peripheral nerve blockade has been suggested to be safe. However, careful review of the literature suggests that MS may also be associated with involvement of the peripheral nervous system, challenging traditional teachings. There is a paucity of evidence with regard to safety in using peripheral nerve regional anesthesia in these patients. This makes it difficult to provide adequate "informed consent" to these patients. This case report describes a patient with MS who sustained a severe brachial plexopathy after a total shoulder arthroplasty during combined general anesthesia and interscalene nerve block.

A novel multi-item joint replenishment problem considering multiple type discounts.

PubMed

Cui, Ligang; Zhang, Yajun; Deng, Jie; Xu, Maozeng

2018-01-01

In business replenishment, discount offers of multi-item may either provide different discount schedules with a single discount type, or provide schedules with multiple discount types. The paper investigates the joint effects of multiple discount schemes on the decisions of multi-item joint replenishment. In this paper, a joint replenishment problem (JRP) model, considering three discount (all-unit discount, incremental discount, total volume discount) offers simultaneously, is constructed to determine the basic cycle time and joint replenishment frequencies of multi-item. To solve the proposed problem, a heuristic algorithm is proposed to find the optimal solutions and the corresponding total cost of the JRP model. Numerical experiment is performed to test the algorithm and the computational results of JRPs under different discount combinations show different significance in the replenishment cost reduction.

Rheumatoid pseudocyst (geode) of the femoral neck without apparent joint involvement.

PubMed

Morrey, B F

1987-05-01

Typically, rheumatoid cysts are associated with obvious joint involvement and are located in the subchondral portion of the adjacent joint. Giant pseudocysts (geodes) are uncommon and are characteristically associated with extensive joint destruction. The patient described in this report had a giant pseudocyst of the femoral neck but no joint involvement. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first report of such a manifestation of a giant pseudocyst. As such, it posed a somewhat difficult diagnostic problem.

Defense AT and L. Volume 44, Number 6, November-December 2015: Where Have All the Nunn-McCurdys Gone

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-01

must integrate with complex communications and information networks that involve specialized technical expertise in order to be effective. These...and control system programs that had to integrate into multiple networks and required interoperability with joint and coalition partners, some with...Selection Brian Schultz and David Dotson Competition is a key element in acquisition, but greater value is not always tied to lower prices or cost

The Need for a Permanent Gun System On the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-04-01

subject material . Finally, I would like to thank my wife, Niki, for her love, support and understanding. iv Abstract Historically, the United...concept that showed the most promise involved building upon the Gatlin gun technology of the nineteenth century.20 By using a multiple barrel design...one form or another, has been present since military pilots first took to the air. From simply using their own handguns to shoot at enemy aircraft

Predictive value of bone scintigraphy for the detection of joint involvement in Behçet's disease: Dermatologists' perspectives.

PubMed

Seo, Jimyung; Lee, Minseok; Choi, Min Ju; Zheng, Zhenlong; Cho, Arthur; Bang, Dongsik; Kim, Do Young

2015-01-01

Behçet's disease (BD) is a multisystemic inflammatory disease with articular involvement. Non-specific arthralgia without objective signs of arthritis, such as swelling or effusion, is common in such patients. Thus, an accurate diagnosis of joint involvement may be challenging for dermatologists. To evaluate the validity of (99m)Tc-methylene diphosphonate (Tc-99m-MDP) bone scintigraphy for joint involvement assessment in patients with BD. In 211 patients with BD who had scintigraphic evaluations due to joint symptoms, agreement between bone scintigraphy findings and clinically evaluated joint complaints was retrospectively assessed using Cohen's kappa (κ) statistic. A patient subset (n = 104) showing agreement between joint complaints and scintigraphy results was re-evaluated by a rheumatologist to determine the level of diagnostic specificity attained by combining bone scintigraphy with clinical examinations of dermatologists. The total kappa value (211 patients) was 0.604, indicating fair agreement between joint complaints and scintigraphy results. Individual analysis of eleven joint categories revealed statistically significant correlations for wrist (κ = 0.677), shoulder (κ = 0.661), and foot joints (κ = 0.618). Of the 104 referrals to a rheumatologist, 95 (91.34%) were confirmed as having BD-associated articular involvement. Joint acral areas (e.g., foot, hand, wrist and shoulder) that had the highest kappa value correlations also ranked highest in diagnostic specificity. Bone scintigraphy presents a simple and useful option for dermatologists to assess joint involvement in BD patients, especially for specific anatomic sites.

Early rheumatoid disease. II. Patterns of joint involvement.

PubMed Central

Fleming, A; Benn, R T; Corbett, M; Wood, P H

1976-01-01

Data from the first research clinic visit (Fleming and others, 1976) have been subjected to factor analysis to identify early patterns of joint involvement. Nine patterns emerged. Two patterns, if present early, were found to have prognostic significance. An eventually more severe disease was associated with a pattern of large joint involvement (shoulder, elbow, wrist, knee) and a pattern based on metatarsophalangeal joints I and III. PMID:970995

Data representation for joint kinematics simulation of the lower limb within an educational context.

PubMed

Van Sint Jan, Serge; Hilal, Isam; Salvia, Patrick; Sholukha, Victor; Poulet, Pascal; Kirokoya, Ibrahim; Rooze, Marcel

2003-04-01

Three-dimensional (3D) visualization is becoming increasingly frequent in both qualitative and quantitative biomechanical studies of anatomical structures involving multiple data sources (e.g. morphological data and kinematics data). For many years, this kind of experiment was limited to the use of bi-dimensional images due to a lack of accurate 3D data. However, recent progress in medical imaging and computer graphics has forged new perspectives. Indeed, new techniques allow the development of an interactive interface for the simulation of human motions combining data from both medical imaging (i.e., morphology) and biomechanical studies (i.e., kinematics). Fields of application include medical education, biomechanical research and clinical research. This paper presents an experimental protocol for the development of anatomically realistic joint simulation within a pedagogical context. Results are shown for the lower limb. Extension to other joints is straightforward. This work is part of the Virtual Animation of the Kinematics of the Human project (VAKHUM) (http://www.ulb.ac.be/project/vakhum).

Diagnosis of Ehrlichia ewingii infection by PCR in a puppy from Ohio.

PubMed

Gieg, Jennifer; Rikihisa, Yasuko; Wellman, Maxey

2009-09-01

An 8-week-old, male, German Shepherd-cross puppy found in southeastern Ohio was presented to The Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital for evaluation of lameness and lethargy. Fever and joint effusion involving multiple joints were identified on physical examination. Results of a CBC included mild anemia, mature neutrophilia, monocytosis, and hyperglobulinemia. Rickettsial morulae were identified within neutrophils in joint fluid and peripheral blood. Both initial and convalescent serum titers were negative for Ehrlichia sp.; however, PCR analysis was strongly positive for Ehrlichia ewingii. The patient's clinical signs resolved within several days of beginning doxycycline treatment. Resolution of infection was confirmed by negative PCR results after 18 days of treatment and again after 3 years. This is the first reported case of E. ewingii in Ohio. More importantly, this case demonstrates the importance of PCR in making a definitive diagnosis of tick-borne disease and the potential pitfalls of relying on serologic testing alone in making a diagnosis.

Using speech for mode selection in control of multifunctional myoelectric prostheses.

PubMed

Fang, Peng; Wei, Zheng; Geng, Yanjuan; Yao, Fuan; Li, Guanglin

2013-01-01

Electromyogram (EMG) recorded from residual muscles of limbs is considered as suitable control information for motorized prostheses. However, in case of high-level amputations, the residual muscles are usually limited, which may not provide enough EMG for flexible control of myoelectric prostheses with multiple degrees of freedom of movements. Here, we proposed a control strategy, where the speech signals were used as additional information and combined with the EMG signals to realize more flexible control of multifunctional prostheses. By replacing the traditional "sequential mode-switching (joint-switching)", the speech signals were used to select a mode (joint) of the prosthetic arm, and then the EMG signals were applied to determine a motion class involved in the selected joint and to execute the motion. Preliminary results from three able-bodied subjects and one transhumeral amputee demonstrated the proposed strategy could achieve a high mode-selection rate and enhance the operation efficiency, suggesting the strategy may improve the control performance of commercial myoelectric prostheses.

Arthritis as presenting manifestation of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in children.

PubMed

Brix, Ninna; Rosthøj, Steen; Herlin, Troels; Hasle, Henrik

2015-09-01

At disease onset, children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) may present with arthralgia or even signs of arthritis. This might cause misdiagnosis and thereby lead to prolonged diagnostic delay. The present study aimed to identify children with ALL with joint involvement and to compare their characteristics and outcome with children with ALL without joint involvement. Case records of 286 children diagnosed with ALL between 1992 and 2013 were reviewed and analysed in this retrospective, descriptive study. Fifty-three (18.5%) children with ALL presented with localised joint pain, and half of them had objective signs of arthritis. The mean number of joints involved was 2.5, most frequently presenting as asymmetric oligoarthritis. The suspected misdiagnosis were reactive arthritis (19/53), osteomyelitis (9/53) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (8/53). Children with joint involvement had less objective signs of haematological disease. Cytopenia was absent in 24% in children with joint involvement (vs 8% without, p=0.001), 50% had only one cell line affected (vs 21%, p=0.0005) and 44% had no organomegaly (vs 29%, p=0.05). Median diagnostic delay was 4 vs 2 weeks. The 5-year event-free and overall survival was superior for children with joint involvement: 94% vs 87% (p=0.049), and 96% vs 83% (p=0.044). ALL with joint involvement is a frequent finding (18.5%). The clinical signs of leukaemia are less prominent, but non-articular pain should alert the clinician of a possible diagnosis of leukaemia. The overall and event-free survivals were superior compared with the children without joint involvement. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Intra- and inter-brain synchronization during musical improvisation on the guitar.

PubMed

Müller, Viktor; Sänger, Johanna; Lindenberger, Ulman

2013-01-01

Humans interact with the environment through sensory and motor acts. Some of these interactions require synchronization among two or more individuals. Multiple-trial designs, which we have used in past work to study interbrain synchronization in the course of joint action, constrain the range of observable interactions. To overcome the limitations of multiple-trial designs, we conducted single-trial analyses of electroencephalography (EEG) signals recorded from eight pairs of guitarists engaged in musical improvisation. We identified hyper-brain networks based on a complex interplay of different frequencies. The intra-brain connections primarily involved higher frequencies (e.g., beta), whereas inter-brain connections primarily operated at lower frequencies (e.g., delta and theta). The topology of hyper-brain networks was frequency-dependent, with a tendency to become more regular at higher frequencies. We also found hyper-brain modules that included nodes (i.e., EEG electrodes) from both brains. Some of the observed network properties were related to musical roles during improvisation. Our findings replicate and extend earlier work and point to mechanisms that enable individuals to engage in temporally coordinated joint action.

Intra- and Inter-Brain Synchronization during Musical Improvisation on the Guitar

PubMed Central

Müller, Viktor; Sänger, Johanna; Lindenberger, Ulman

2013-01-01

Humans interact with the environment through sensory and motor acts. Some of these interactions require synchronization among two or more individuals. Multiple-trial designs, which we have used in past work to study interbrain synchronization in the course of joint action, constrain the range of observable interactions. To overcome the limitations of multiple-trial designs, we conducted single-trial analyses of electroencephalography (EEG) signals recorded from eight pairs of guitarists engaged in musical improvisation. We identified hyper-brain networks based on a complex interplay of different frequencies. The intra-brain connections primarily involved higher frequencies (e.g., beta), whereas inter-brain connections primarily operated at lower frequencies (e.g., delta and theta). The topology of hyper-brain networks was frequency-dependent, with a tendency to become more regular at higher frequencies. We also found hyper-brain modules that included nodes (i.e., EEG electrodes) from both brains. Some of the observed network properties were related to musical roles during improvisation. Our findings replicate and extend earlier work and point to mechanisms that enable individuals to engage in temporally coordinated joint action. PMID:24040094

Hand kinematics of piano playing

PubMed Central

Flanders, Martha; Soechting, John F.

2011-01-01

Dexterous use of the hand represents a sophisticated sensorimotor function. In behaviors such as playing the piano, it can involve strong temporal and spatial constraints. The purpose of this study was to determine fundamental patterns of covariation of motion across joints and digits of the human hand. Joint motion was recorded while 5 expert pianists played 30 excerpts from musical pieces, which featured ∼50 different tone sequences and fingering. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis using an expectation-maximization algorithm revealed that joint velocities could be categorized into several patterns, which help to simplify the description of the movements of the multiple degrees of freedom of the hand. For the thumb keystroke, two distinct patterns of joint movement covariation emerged and they depended on the spatiotemporal patterns of the task. For example, the thumb-under maneuver was clearly separated into two clusters based on the direction of hand translation along the keyboard. While the pattern of the thumb joint velocities differed between these clusters, the motions at the metacarpo-phalangeal and proximal-phalangeal joints of the four fingers were more consistent. For a keystroke executed with one of the fingers, there were three distinct patterns of joint rotations, across which motion at the striking finger was fairly consistent, but motion of the other fingers was more variable. Furthermore, the amount of movement spillover of the striking finger to the adjacent fingers was small irrespective of the finger used for the keystroke. These findings describe an unparalleled amount of independent motion of the fingers. PMID:21880938

Validity of an ankle joint motion and position sense measurement system and its application in healthy subjects and patients with ankle sprain.

PubMed

Lin, Chueh-Ho; Chiang, Shang-Lin; Lu, Liang-Hsuan; Wei, Shun-Hwa; Sung, Wen-Hsu

2016-07-01

Ankle motion and proprioception in multiple axis movements are crucial for daily activities. However, few studies have developed and used a multiple axis system for measuring ankle motion and proprioception. This study was designed to validate a novel ankle haptic interface system that measures the ankle range of motion (ROM) and joint position sense in multiple plane movements, investigating the proprioception deficits during joint position sense tasks for patients with ankle instability. Eleven healthy adults (mean ± standard deviation; age, 24.7 ± 1.9 years) and thirteen patients with ankle instability were recruited in this study. All subjects were asked to perform tests to evaluate the validity of the ankle ROM measurements and underwent tests for validating the joint position sense measurements conducted during multiple axis movements of the ankle joint. Pearson correlation was used for validating the angular position measurements obtained using the developed system; the independent t test was used to investigate the differences in joint position sense task performance for people with or without ankle instability. The ROM measurements of the device were linearly correlated with the criterion standards (r = 0.99). The ankle instability and healthy groups were significantly different in direction, absolute, and variable errors of plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, inversion, and eversion (p < 0.05). The results demonstrate that the novel ankle joint motion and position sense measurement system is valid and can be used for measuring the ankle ROM and joint position sense in multiple planes and indicate proprioception deficits for people with ankle instability. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple Sensory-Motor Pathways Lead to Coordinated Visual Attention

PubMed Central

Yu, Chen; Smith, Linda B.

2016-01-01

Joint attention has been extensively studied in the developmental literature because of overwhelming evidence that the ability to socially coordinate visual attention to an object is essential to healthy developmental outcomes, including language learning. The goal of the present study is to understand the complex system of sensory-motor behaviors that may underlie the establishment of joint attention between parents and toddlers. In an experimental task, parents and toddlers played together with multiple toys. We objectively measured joint attention – and the sensory-motor behaviors that underlie it – using a dual head-mounted eye-tracking system and frame-by-frame coding of manual actions. By tracking the momentary visual fixations and hand actions of each participant, we precisely determined just how often they fixated on the same object at the same time, the visual behaviors that preceded joint attention, and manual behaviors that preceded and co-occurred with joint attention. We found that multiple sequential sensory-motor patterns lead to joint attention. In addition, there are developmental changes in this multi-pathway system evidenced as variations in strength among multiple routes. We propose that coordinated visual attention between parents and toddlers is primarily a sensory-motor behavior. Skill in achieving coordinated visual attention in social settings – like skills in other sensory-motor domains – emerges from multiple pathways to the same functional end. PMID:27016038

Multiple Sensory-Motor Pathways Lead to Coordinated Visual Attention.

PubMed

Yu, Chen; Smith, Linda B

2017-02-01

Joint attention has been extensively studied in the developmental literature because of overwhelming evidence that the ability to socially coordinate visual attention to an object is essential to healthy developmental outcomes, including language learning. The goal of this study was to understand the complex system of sensory-motor behaviors that may underlie the establishment of joint attention between parents and toddlers. In an experimental task, parents and toddlers played together with multiple toys. We objectively measured joint attention-and the sensory-motor behaviors that underlie it-using a dual head-mounted eye-tracking system and frame-by-frame coding of manual actions. By tracking the momentary visual fixations and hand actions of each participant, we precisely determined just how often they fixated on the same object at the same time, the visual behaviors that preceded joint attention and manual behaviors that preceded and co-occurred with joint attention. We found that multiple sequential sensory-motor patterns lead to joint attention. In addition, there are developmental changes in this multi-pathway system evidenced as variations in strength among multiple routes. We propose that coordinated visual attention between parents and toddlers is primarily a sensory-motor behavior. Skill in achieving coordinated visual attention in social settings-like skills in other sensory-motor domains-emerges from multiple pathways to the same functional end. Copyright © 2016 Cognitive Science Society, Inc.

The Use of Residual Collagenase for Single Digits With Multiple-Joint Dupuytren Contractures.

PubMed

Grandizio, Louis C; Akoon, Anil; Heimbach, Janice; Graham, Jove; Klena, Joel C

2017-06-01

Standard 0.58 mg (0.25 mL) collagenase Clostridium histolyticum (CCH) preparations result in unused CCH that is often discarded. Our purpose was to assess the results on Dupuytren contractures affecting both the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints in the same digit utilizing an injection containing the maximum CCH volume that can be withdrawn from a single vial. A consecutive series of patients with MCP and PIP cords in the same digit received a single treatment with 2 injections totaling 0.30 mL distributed between the MCP and the PIP cords and underwent manipulation approximately 24 hours later. Reduction in contracture, clinical success, and complications were assessed 30 days after manipulation. Thirty-one patients (34 digits) had a mean preinjection flexion contracture of 50° at the MCP joint and 53° at the PIP joint. Clinical success (reduction in joint contracture to 0°-5° of full extension 30-days postmanipulation) was noted in 65% of MCP cords and 38% of PIP joint cords. We had a 24% incidence of skin tears, which correlated with the degree of preinjection contracture. For Dupuytren contractures involving the MCP and PIP joints in the same digit, distributing the maximum amount of CCH that can be withdrawn from a single vial provides efficacy at both joints that is similar to that reported in previously published series, with a comparable complication rate. Utilizing excess CCH typically discarded may provide cost savings. Therapeutic IV. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Noninflammatory Joint Contractures Arising from Immobility: Animal Models to Future Treatments

PubMed Central

Wong, Kayleigh; Trudel, Guy; Laneuville, Odette

2015-01-01

Joint contractures, defined as the limitation in the passive range of motion of a mobile joint, can be classified as noninflammatory diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The pathophysiology is not well understood; limited information is available on causal factors, progression, the pathophysiology involved, and prediction of response to treatment. The clinical heterogeneity of joint contractures combined with the heterogeneous contribution of joint connective tissues to joint mobility presents challenges to the study of joint contractures. Furthermore, contractures are often a symptom of a wide variety of heterogeneous disorders that are in many cases multifactorial. Extended immobility has been identified as a causal factor and evidence is provided from both experimental and epidemiology studies. Of interest is the involvement of the joint capsule in the pathophysiology of joint contractures and lack of response to remobilization. While molecular pathways involved in the development of joint contractures are being investigated, current treatments focus on physiotherapy, which is ineffective on irreversible contractures. Future treatments may include early diagnosis and prevention. PMID:26247029

26 CFR 1.72-5 - Expected return.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... the joint and survivor annuity element 110.40 Multiple from Table I (male, age 60) 18.2 Number of... anticipatable with respect to the joint and survivor annuity element 124.80 Multiple from Table V (age 60) 24.2... annuity payments to be received annually by the multiple shown in Table I or V (whichever is applicable...

26 CFR 1.72-5 - Expected return.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... the joint and survivor annuity element 110.40 Multiple from Table I (male, age 60) 18.2 Number of... anticipatable with respect to the joint and survivor annuity element 124.80 Multiple from Table V (age 60) 24.2... annuity payments to be received annually by the multiple shown in Table I or V (whichever is applicable...

26 CFR 1.72-5 - Expected return.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... the joint and survivor annuity element 110.40 Multiple from Table I (male, age 60) 18.2 Number of... anticipatable with respect to the joint and survivor annuity element 124.80 Multiple from Table V (age 60) 24.2... annuity payments to be received annually by the multiple shown in Table I or V (whichever is applicable...

26 CFR 1.72-5 - Expected return.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... the joint and survivor annuity element 110.40 Multiple from Table I (male, age 60) 18.2 Number of... anticipatable with respect to the joint and survivor annuity element 124.80 Multiple from Table V (age 60) 24.2... annuity payments to be received annually by the multiple shown in Table I or V (whichever is applicable...

Potential of (18)F-FDG-PET as a valuable adjunct to clinical and response assessment in rheumatoid arthritis and seronegative spondyloarthropathies.

PubMed

Vijayant, Vishu; Sarma, Manjit; Aurangabadkar, Hrushikesh; Bichile, Lata; Basu, Sandip

2012-12-28

To evaluate the role of fluorine-18-labeled fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ((18)F-FDG PET) in various rheumatic diseases and its potential in the early assessment of treatment response in a limited number of patients. This study involved 28 newly diagnosed patients, of these 17 had rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and 11 had seronegative spondyloarthropathy (SSA). In the SSA group, 7 patients had ankylosing spondylitis, 3 had psoriatic arthritis, and one had non-specific SSA. Patients with RA were selected as per the American College of Rheumatology criteria. One hour after FDG injection, a whole body PET scan was performed from the skull vertex to below the knee joints using a GE Advance dedicated PET scanner. Separate scans were acquired for both upper and lower limbs. Post-treatment scans were performed in 9 patients in the RA group (at 6-9 wk from baseline) and in 1 patient with psoriatic arthropathy. The pattern of FDG uptake was analysed visually and quantified as maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) in a standard region of interest. Metabolic response on the scan was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively and was correlated with clinical assessment. The qualitative FDG uptake was in agreement with the clinically involved joints, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein values and the clinical assessment by the rheumatologist. All 17 patients in the RA group showed the highest FDG avidity in painful/swollen/tender joints. The uptake pattern was homogeneous, intense and poly-articular in distribution. Hypermetabolism in the regional nodes (axillary nodes in the case of upper limb joint involvement and inguinal nodes in lower limb joints) was a constant feature in patients with RA. Multiple other extra-articular lesions were also observed including thyroid glands (in associated thyroiditis) and in the subcutaneous nodules. Treatment response was better appreciated using SUVmax values than visual interpretation, when compared with clinical evaluation. Four patients showed a favourable response, while 3 had stable disease and 2 showed disease progression. The resolution of regional nodal uptake (axillary or inguinal nodes based on site of joint involvement) in RA following disease modifying anti-rheumatoid drugs was noteworthy, which could be regarded as an additional parameter for identifying responding patients. In the SSA group, uptake in the affected joint was heterogeneous, low grade and non-symmetrical. In particular, there was intense tendon and muscular uptake corresponding to symptomatic joints. The patients with psoriatic arthritis showed intense FDG uptake in the joints and soft tissue. (18)F-FDG PET accurately delineates the ongoing inflammatory activity in various rheumatic diseases (both at articular and extra-articular sites) and relates well to clinical symptoms. Different metabolic patterns on FDG-PET scanning in RA and SSA can have important implications for their diagnosis and management in the future with the support of larger studies. FDG-PET molecular imaging is also a sensitive tool in the early assessment of treatment response, especially when using quantitative information. With these benefits, FDG-PET could play a pivotal clinical role in the management of inflammatory joint disorders in the future.

Controlling the joint local false discovery rate is more powerful than meta-analysis methods in joint analysis of summary statistics from multiple genome-wide association studies.

PubMed

Jiang, Wei; Yu, Weichuan

2017-02-15

In genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of common diseases/traits, we often analyze multiple GWASs with the same phenotype together to discover associated genetic variants with higher power. Since it is difficult to access data with detailed individual measurements, summary-statistics-based meta-analysis methods have become popular to jointly analyze datasets from multiple GWASs. In this paper, we propose a novel summary-statistics-based joint analysis method based on controlling the joint local false discovery rate (Jlfdr). We prove that our method is the most powerful summary-statistics-based joint analysis method when controlling the false discovery rate at a certain level. In particular, the Jlfdr-based method achieves higher power than commonly used meta-analysis methods when analyzing heterogeneous datasets from multiple GWASs. Simulation experiments demonstrate the superior power of our method over meta-analysis methods. Also, our method discovers more associations than meta-analysis methods from empirical datasets of four phenotypes. The R-package is available at: http://bioinformatics.ust.hk/Jlfdr.html . eeyu@ust.hk. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

Estimation of Finger Joint Angles Based on Electromechanical Sensing of Wrist Shape.

PubMed

Kawaguchi, Junki; Yoshimoto, Shunsuke; Kuroda, Yoshihiro; Oshiro, Osamu

2017-09-01

An approach to finger motion capture that places fewer restrictions on the usage environment and actions of the user is an important research topic in biomechanics and human-computer interaction. We proposed a system that electrically detects finger motion from the associated deformation of the wrist and estimates the finger joint angles using multiple regression models. A wrist-mounted sensing device with 16 electrodes detects deformation of the wrist from changes in electrical contact resistance at the skin. In this study, we experimentally investigated the accuracy of finger joint angle estimation, the adequacy of two multiple regression models, and the resolution of the estimation of total finger joint angles. In experiments, both the finger joint angles and the system output voltage were recorded as subjects performed flexion/extension of the fingers. These data were used for calibration using the least-squares method. The system was found to be capable of estimating the total finger joint angle with a root-mean-square error of 29-34 degrees. A multiple regression model with a second-order polynomial basis function was shown to be suitable for the estimation of all total finger joint angles, but not those of the thumb.

Service user involvement enhanced the research quality in a study using interpretative phenomenological analysis - the power of multiple perspectives.

PubMed

Mjøsund, Nina Helen; Eriksson, Monica; Espnes, Geir Arild; Haaland-Øverby, Mette; Jensen, Sven Liang; Norheim, Irene; Kjus, Solveig Helene Høymork; Portaasen, Inger-Lill; Vinje, Hege Forbech

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to examine how service user involvement can contribute to the development of interpretative phenomenological analysis methodology and enhance research quality. Interpretative phenomenological analysis is a qualitative methodology used in nursing research internationally to understand human experiences that are essential to the participants. Service user involvement is requested in nursing research. We share experiences from 4 years of collaboration (2012-2015) on a mental health promotion project, which involved an advisory team. Five research advisors either with a diagnosis or related to a person with severe mental illness constituted the team. They collaborated with the research fellow throughout the entire research process and have co-authored this article. We examined the joint process of analysing the empirical data from interviews. Our analytical discussions were audiotaped, transcribed and subsequently interpreted following the guidelines for good qualitative analysis in interpretative phenomenological analysis studies. The advisory team became 'the researcher's helping hand'. Multiple perspectives influenced the qualitative analysis, which gave more insightful interpretations of nuances, complexity, richness or ambiguity in the interviewed participants' accounts. The outcome of the service user involvement was increased breadth and depth in findings. Service user involvement improved the research quality in a nursing research project on mental health promotion. The interpretative element of interpretative phenomenological analysis was enhanced by the emergence of multiple perspectives in the qualitative analysis of the empirical data. We argue that service user involvement and interpretative phenomenological analysis methodology can mutually reinforce each other and strengthen qualitative methodology. © 2016 The Authors. Journal of Advanced Nursing Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Managing Recurrence in Intraarticular Melorheostosis Involving the Knee Joint: A Case Report.

PubMed

John, Bobby; Sharma, Anirudh; Pandey, Ritesh A

2017-01-01

Melorheostosis is a rare benign sclerosing dysplasia affecting bone, which causes significant morbidity in the form of pain and restriction of joint movement. Treatment options are varied, and recurrence is common after surgical treatment. Choosing the most appropriate treatment option in the management of a recurrent case is challenging, with very little supporting evidence in literature owing to the rarity of the disease. We hereby present a case of recurrent melorheostosis involving the knee; discuss treatment options and the rationale of our treatment. We present the case of a 42-year-old female who was operated at our institution previously 7 years ago for melorheostosis of her left knee and had undergone excision of intrarticular hyperostotic masses. However, pain and limitation of motion recurred in the operated knee 4 years later, and radiographs and computed tomography revealed a mineralized mass situated behind the patella in the patellofemoral joint. She was treated with repeat open excision of the mass and put on a regimen of physiotherapy and bisphosphonates. Open excision of symptomatic hyperostotic or mineralized soft tissue masses is perhaps the favored treatment option in such cases, the other options being arthroscopic excision and total knee arthroplasty. Limited knee motion and size of the mass often make arthroscopy an unfeasible option. Total knee arthroplasty should be reserved for cases with significant flexion contractures of the knee, or where multiple excisions have failed.

Toward the identification of causal genes in complex diseases: a gene-centric joint test of significance combining genomic and transcriptomic data.

PubMed

Charlesworth, Jac C; Peralta, Juan M; Drigalenko, Eugene; Göring, Harald Hh; Almasy, Laura; Dyer, Thomas D; Blangero, John

2009-12-15

Gene identification using linkage, association, or genome-wide expression is often underpowered. We propose that formal combination of information from multiple gene-identification approaches may lead to the identification of novel loci that are missed when only one form of information is available. Firstly, we analyze the Genetic Analysis Workshop 16 Framingham Heart Study Problem 2 genome-wide association data for HDL-cholesterol using a "gene-centric" approach. Then we formally combine the association test results with genome-wide transcriptional profiling data for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), from the San Antonio Family Heart Study, using a Z-transform test (Stouffer's method). We identified 39 genes by the joint test at a conservative 1% false-discovery rate, including 9 from the significant gene-based association test and 23 whose expression was significantly correlated with HDL-C. Seven genes identified as significant in the joint test were not independently identified by either the association or expression tests. This combined approach has increased power and leads to the direct nomination of novel candidate genes likely to be involved in the determination of HDL-C levels. Such information can then be used as justification for a more exhaustive search for functional sequence variation within the nominated genes. We anticipate that this type of analysis will improve our speed of identification of regulatory genes causally involved in disease risk.

Nonoperative Management of Craniocervical Ligamentous Distraction Injury: Literature Review.

PubMed

Kaplan, Nathan B; Molinari, Christine; Molinari, Robert W

2015-12-01

Study Design Literature review and case report. Objective Review the existing literature and report the successful nonoperative management of a two-level craniocervical ligamentous distraction injury. Methods A PubMed and Medline review revealed only three limited reports involving the nonoperative management of patients with craniocervical distraction injury. This article reviews the existing literature and reports the case of a 27-year-old man who was involved in a motorcycle accident and sustained multiple systemic injuries and ligamentous distraction injuries to both occipitocervical joints and both C1-C2 joints. The patient's traumatic brain injury and bilateral pulmonary contusions precluded safe operative management of the two-level craniocervical distraction injury. Therefore, the patient was placed in a halo immobilization device. Results The literature remains unclear as to the specific indications for nonoperative management of ligamentous craniocervical injuries. Nonoperative management was associated with poor outcomes in the majority of reported patients. We report a patient who was managed for 6 months in a halo device. Posttreatment computed tomography and flexion-extension radiographs demonstrated stable occipitocervical and C1-C2 joints bilaterally. The patient reported minimal neck pain and had excellent functional outcome with a Neck Disability Index score of 2 points at 41 months postoperatively. He returned to preinjury level of employment without restriction. Conclusions Further study is needed to determine which craniocervical injuries may be managed successfully with nonoperative measures.

Nonoperative Management of Craniocervical Ligamentous Distraction Injury: Literature Review

PubMed Central

Kaplan, Nathan B.; Molinari, Christine; Molinari, Robert W.

2015-01-01

Study Design Literature review and case report. Objective Review the existing literature and report the successful nonoperative management of a two-level craniocervical ligamentous distraction injury. Methods A PubMed and Medline review revealed only three limited reports involving the nonoperative management of patients with craniocervical distraction injury. This article reviews the existing literature and reports the case of a 27-year-old man who was involved in a motorcycle accident and sustained multiple systemic injuries and ligamentous distraction injuries to both occipitocervical joints and both C1–C2 joints. The patient's traumatic brain injury and bilateral pulmonary contusions precluded safe operative management of the two-level craniocervical distraction injury. Therefore, the patient was placed in a halo immobilization device. Results The literature remains unclear as to the specific indications for nonoperative management of ligamentous craniocervical injuries. Nonoperative management was associated with poor outcomes in the majority of reported patients. We report a patient who was managed for 6 months in a halo device. Posttreatment computed tomography and flexion–extension radiographs demonstrated stable occipitocervical and C1–C2 joints bilaterally. The patient reported minimal neck pain and had excellent functional outcome with a Neck Disability Index score of 2 points at 41 months postoperatively. He returned to preinjury level of employment without restriction. Conclusions Further study is needed to determine which craniocervical injuries may be managed successfully with nonoperative measures. PMID:26682101

Characterization of an acoustic actuation mechanism for robotic propulsion in low Reynolds number environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

House, Christopher; Armstrong, Jenelle; Burkhardt, John; Firebaugh, Samara

2014-06-01

With the end goal of medical applications such as non-invasive surgery and targeted drug delivery, an acoustically driven resonant structure is proposed for microrobotic propulsion. At the proposed scale, the low Reynolds number environment requires non-reciprocal motion from the robotic structure for propulsion; thus, a "flapper" with multiple, flexible joints, has been designed to produce excitation modes that involve the necessary flagella-like bending for non-reciprocal motion. The key design aspect of the flapper structure involves a very thin joint that allows bending in one (vertical) direction, but not the opposing direction. This allows for the second mass and joint to bend in a manner similar to a dolphin's "kick" at the bottom of their stroke, resulting in forward thrust. A 130 mm x 50 mm x 0.2 mm prototype of a swimming robot that utilizes the flapper was fabricated out of acrylic using a laser cutter. The robot was tested in water and in a water-glycerine solution designed to mimic microscale fluid conditions. The robot exhibited forward propulsion when excited by an underwater speaker at its resonance mode, with velocities up to 2.5 mm/s. The robot also displayed frequency selectivity, leading to the possibility of exploring a steering mechanism with alternatively tuned flappers. Additional tests were conducted with a robot at a reduced size scale.

Evaluating carbon storage, timber harvest, and habitat possibilities for a Western Cascades (USA) forest landscape.

PubMed

Kline, Jeffrey D; Harmon, Mark E; Spies, Thomas A; Morzillo, Anita T; Pabst, Robert J; McComb, Brenda C; Schnekenburger, Frank; Olsen, Keith A; Csuti, Blair; Vogeler, Jody C

2016-10-01

Forest policymakers and managers have long sought ways to evaluate the capability of forest landscapes to jointly produce timber, habitat, and other ecosystem services in response to forest management. Currently, carbon is of particular interest as policies for increasing carbon storage on federal lands are being proposed. However, a challenge in joint production analysis of forest management is adequately representing ecological conditions and processes that influence joint production relationships. We used simulation models of vegetation structure, forest sector carbon, and potential wildlife habitat to characterize landscape-level joint production possibilities for carbon storage, timber harvest, and habitat for seven wildlife species across a range of forest management regimes. We sought to (1) characterize the general relationships of production possibilities for combinations of carbon storage, timber, and habitat, and (2) identify management variables that most influence joint production relationships. Our 160 000-ha study landscape featured environmental conditions typical of forests in the Western Cascade Mountains of Oregon (USA). Our results indicate that managing forests for carbon storage involves trade-offs among timber harvest and habitat for focal wildlife species, depending on the disturbance interval and utilization intensity followed. Joint production possibilities for wildlife species varied in shape, ranging from competitive to complementary to compound, reflecting niche breadth and habitat component needs of species examined. Managing Pacific Northwest forests to store forest sector carbon can be roughly complementary with habitat for Northern Spotted Owl, Olive-sided Flycatcher, and red tree vole. However, managing forests to increase carbon storage potentially can be competitive with timber production and habitat for Pacific marten, Pileated Woodpecker, and Western Bluebird, depending on the disturbance interval and harvest intensity chosen. Our analysis suggests that joint production possibilities under forest management regimes currently typical on industrial forest lands (e.g., 40- to 80-yr rotations with some tree retention for wildlife) represent but a small fraction of joint production outcomes possible in the region. Although the theoretical boundaries of the production possibilities sets we developed are probably unachievable in the current management environment, they arguably define the long-term potential of managing forests to produce multiple ecosystem services within and across multiple forest ownerships. © 2016 by the Ecological Society of America.

Workspace location influences joint coordination during reaching in post-stroke hemiparesis

PubMed Central

Reisman, Darcy S.; Scholz, John P.

2006-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of workspace location on joint coordination in persons with post-stroke hemiparesis when trunk motion was required to complete reaches beyond the arm’s functional reach length. Seven subjects with mild right hemiparesis following a stroke and seven age and gender matched control subjects participated. Joint motions and characteristics of hand and trunk movement were measured over multiple repetitions. The variance (across trials) of joint combinations was partitioned into two components at every point in the hand’s trajectory using the uncontrolled manifold approach; the first component is a measure of the extent to which equivalent joint combinations are used to control a given hand path, and reflects performance flexibility. The second component of joint variance reflects the use of non-equivalent joint combinations, which lead to hand path error. Compared to the control subjects, persons with hemiparesis demonstrated a significantly greater amount of non-equivalent joint variability related to control of the hand’s path and of the hand’s position relative to the trunk when reaching toward the hemiparetic side (ipsilaterally), but not when reaching to the less involved side. The relative timing of the hand and trunk was also altered when reaching ipsilaterally. The current findings support the idea that the previously proposed “arm compensatory synergy” may be deficient in subjects with hemiparesis. This deficiency may be due to one or a combination of factors: changes in central commands that are thought to set the gain of the arm compensatory synergy; a limited ability to combine shoulder abduction and elbow extension that limits the expression of an appropriately set arm compensatory synergy; or a reduction of the necessary degrees-of-freedom needed to adequately compensate for poor trunk control when reaching ipsilaterally. PMID:16328275

Effects of load proportioning on the capacity of multiple-hole composite joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyer, M. W.; Chastain, P. A.

1985-01-01

This study addresses the issue of adjusting the proportion of load transmitted by each hole in a multiple-hole joint so that the joint capacity is a maximum. Specifically two-hole-in-series joints are examined. The results indicate that when each hole reacts 50% of the total load, the joint capacity is not a maximum. One hole generally is understressed at joint failure. The algorithm developed to determine the load proportion at each hole which results in maximum capacity is discussed. The algorithm includes two-dimensional finite-element stress analysis and failure criteria. The algorithm is used to study the effects of joint width, hole spacing, and hole to joint-end distance on load proportioning and capacity. To study hole size effects, two hole diameters are considered. Three laminates are considered: a quasi-isotropic laminate; a cross-ply laminate; and a 45 degree angle-ply laminate. By proportioning the load, capacity can be increased generally from 5 to 10%. In some cases a greater increase is possible.

Joint measurement of multiple noncommuting parameters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jiamin; Liu, Yuhong; Cui, Liang; Huo, Nan; Assad, Syed M.; Li, Xiaoying; Ou, Z. Y.

2018-05-01

Although quantum metrology allows us to make precision measurements beyond the standard quantum limit, it mostly works on the measurement of only one observable due to the Heisenberg uncertainty relation on the measurement precision of noncommuting observables for one system. In this paper, we study the schemes of joint measurement of multiple observables which do not commute with each other using the quantum entanglement between two systems. We focus on analyzing the performance of a SU(1,1) nonlinear interferometer on fulfilling the task of joint measurement. The results show that the information encoded in multiple noncommuting observables on an optical field can be simultaneously measured with a signal-to-noise ratio higher than the standard quantum limit, and the ultimate limit of each observable is still the Heisenberg limit. Moreover, we find a resource conservation rule for the joint measurement.

Comment Period for Proposed Remedy Selection Plan for Multiple Training Areas located at Joint Base Cape Cod

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is seeking public comment on the EPA’s proposal indicating no further action is needed for multiple Training Areas on the Camp Edwards portion of Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC).

Outcome and predicting factors of single and multiple intra-articular corticosteroid injections in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

PubMed

Lanni, Stefano; Bertamino, Marta; Consolaro, Alessandro; Pistorio, Angela; Magni-Manzoni, Silvia; Galasso, Roberta; Lattanzi, Bianca; Calvo-Aranda, Enrique; Martini, Alberto; Ravelli, Angelo

2011-09-01

To investigate the efficacy of IA CS (IAC) therapy in single and multiple joints in children with JIA and to seek for predictors of synovitis flare. The clinical charts of patients who received their first IAC injection between January 2002 and December 2008 were reviewed. The CS used was triamcinolone hexacetonide for large joints and methylprednisolone acetate for small or difficult to access joints. Patients were stratified as follows: one joint injected; two joints injected; and three or more joints injected. Predictors included sex, age at disease onset, JIA category, age and disease duration, ANA status, iridocyclitis, general anaesthesia, number and type of injected joints, acute-phase reactants and concomitant MTX therapy. The cumulative probability of survival without synovitis flare for patients injected in one, two, or three or more joints was 70, 45 and 44%, respectively, at 1 year; 61, 32 and 30%, respectively, at 2 years; and 37, 22 and 19%, respectively, at 3 years. On Cox regression analysis, positive CRP, negative ANA and injection in the ankle were the strongest predictors for synovitis flare. The only significant side effect was skin hypopigmentation or s.c. atrophy, which occurred in <2% of patients. IAC therapy-induced sustained remission of synovitis in a substantial proportion of patients injected either in single or multiple joints, with a good safety profile. The risk of synovitis flare was higher in patients who had positive CRP, negative ANA and were injected in the ankle.

Continuous fetal head flexion as a marker for prenatal diagnosis of lethal multiple pterygium syndrome: a case report.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Akihiro; Hanaoka, Mieko; Murakoshi, Takeshi

2017-07-01

Lethal multiple pterygium syndrome (LMPS) is a fatal hereditary disease associated with abnormalities such as pterygium-induced congenital contractures. Fetal hydrops is present in more than half of all patients with LMPS, and all patients with LMPS are either stillborn or die in the early neonatal period. Ultrasonography findings for the prenatal diagnosis of LMPS include the detection of cutaneous webbing at multiple joints, multiple joint contractures, absent limb movement, and increased nuchal translucency. Here, we describe a patient who was diagnosed as having LMPS due to continuous fetal head flexion, despite the absence of the usual characteristics of the condition, including pterygium at the joints. Thus, continuous fetal head flexion can be a useful marker for prenatally diagnosing LMPS.

Fractional optical cryptographic protocol for data containers in a noise-free multiuser environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaramillo, Alexis; Barrera, John Fredy; Zea, Alejandro Vélez; Torroba, Roberto

2018-03-01

Optical encryption systems have great potential for flexible and high-performance data protection, making them an area of rapid development. However, most approaches present two main issues, namely, the presence of speckle noise, and the degree of security they offer. Here we introduce an experimental implementation of an optical encrypting protocol that tackles these issues by taking advantage of recent developments in the field. These developments include the introduction of information containers for noise free information retrieval, the use of multiplexing to allow for a multiple user environment and an architecture based on the Joint fractional Fourier transform that allows increased degrees of freedom and simplifies the experimental requirements. Thus, data handling via QR code containers involving multiple users processed in a fractional joint transform correlator produce coded information with increased security and ease of use. In this way, we can guarantee that only the user with the correct combination of encryption key and security parameters can achieve noise free information after deciphering. We analyze the performance of the system when the order of the fractional Fourier transform is changed during decryption. We show experimental results that confirm the validity of our proposal.

The joint venture alternative to mergers.

PubMed

Enders, R J

1995-02-01

However, while a joint venture may be "safe" from antitrust challenge, it is not without some practical difficulties, especially with respect to consolidating services at one location or jointly offering services provided at multiple facilities. These practical concerns include: 1. Who will exercise operational management of the joint venture? 2. How will the joint venture deal with different pricing for services that will be provided at multiple locations? 3. What criteria will be used to decide the location at which consolidated tertiary services will be offered? 4. In what circumstances can the joint venture be unwound, either in its entirety or as to discrete functions? When clinical services have been consolidated at one location, there is an appropriate concern by the other hospital that it will be unable to provide or re-enter the market for those services if the joint venture dissolves. These operational concerns, of course, are not addressed in the Consent Decree. Thus, even if a joint venture relationship survives antitrust scrutiny, the parties must still negotiate and resolve these operational issues in order for the joint venture to be viable.

Prosthetic joint infection caused by Granulicatella adiacens: a case series and review of literature.

PubMed

Quénard, Fanny; Seng, Piseth; Lagier, Jean-Christophe; Fenollar, Florence; Stein, Andreas

2017-06-23

Bone and joint infection involving Granulicatella adiacens is rare, and mainly involved in cases of bacteremia and infectious endocarditis. Here we report three cases of prosthetic joint infection involving G. adiacens that were successfully treated with surgery and prolonged antimicrobial treatment. We also review the two cases of prosthetic joint infection involving G. adiacens that are reported in the literature. Not all five cases of prosthetic joint infection caused by G. adiacens were associated with bacteremia or infectious endocarditis. Dental care before the onset of infection was observed in two cases. The median time delay between arthroplasty implantation and the onset of infection was of 4 years (ranging between 2 and 10 years). One of our cases was identified with 16srRNA gene sequencing, one case with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and one case with both techniques. Two literature cases were diagnosed by 16srRNA gene sequencing. All five cases were cured after surgery including a two-stage prosthesis exchange in three cases, a one-stage prosthesis exchange in one case, and debridement, antibiotics, irrigation, and retention of the prosthesis in one case, and prolonged antimicrobial treatment. Prosthetic joint infection involving G. adiacens is probably often dismissed due to difficult culture or misdiagnosis, in particular in the cases of polymicrobial infection. Debridement, antibiotics, irrigation, and retention of the prosthesis associated with prolonged antimicrobial treatment (≥ 8 weeks) should be considered as a treatment strategy for prosthetic joint infection involving G. adiacens.

37 CFR 1.45 - Joint inventors.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... joint application under 35 U.S.C. 116. If multiple inventors are named in a provisional application... disclosed in the provisional application and the provisional application will be considered to be a joint... 37 Patents, Trademarks, and Copyrights 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Joint inventors. 1.45 Section...

Neural correlates of learning and trajectory planning in the posterior parietal cortex

PubMed Central

Torres, Elizabeth B.; Quian Quiroga, Rodrigo; Cui, He; Buneo, Christopher A.

2013-01-01

The posterior parietal cortex (PPC) is thought to play an important role in the planning of visually-guided reaching movements. However, the relative roles of the various subdivisions of the PPC in this function are still poorly understood. For example, studies of dorsal area 5 point to a representation of reaches in both extrinsic (endpoint) and intrinsic (joint or muscle) coordinates, as evidenced by partial changes in preferred directions and positional discharge with changes in arm posture. In contrast, recent findings suggest that the adjacent medial intraparietal area (MIP) is involved in more abstract representations, e.g., encoding reach target in visual coordinates. Such a representation is suitable for planning reach trajectories involving shortest distance paths to targets straight ahead. However, it is currently unclear how MIP contributes to the planning of other types of trajectories, including those with various degrees of curvature. Such curved trajectories recruit different joint excursions and might help us address whether their representation in the PPC is purely in extrinsic coordinates or in intrinsic ones as well. Here we investigated the role of the PPC in these processes during an obstacle avoidance task for which the animals had not been explicitly trained. We found that PPC planning activity was predictive of both the spatial and temporal aspects of upcoming trajectories. The same PPC neurons predicted the upcoming trajectory in both endpoint and joint coordinates. The predictive power of these neurons remained stable and accurate despite concomitant motor learning across task conditions. These findings suggest the role of the PPC can be extended from specifying abstract movement goals to expressing these plans as corresponding trajectories in both endpoint and joint coordinates. Thus, the PPC appears to contribute to reach planning and approach-avoidance arm motions at multiple levels of representation. PMID:23730275

A novel methodology to reproduce previously recorded six-degree of freedom kinematics on the same diarthrodial joint.

PubMed

Moore, Susan M; Thomas, Maribeth; Woo, Savio L-Y; Gabriel, Mary T; Kilger, Robert; Debski, Richard E

2006-01-01

The objective of this study was to develop a novel method to more accurately reproduce previously recorded 6-DOF kinematics of the tibia with respect to the femur using robotic technology. Furthermore, the effect of performing only a single or multiple registrations and the effect of robot joint configuration were investigated. A single registration consisted of registering the tibia and femur with respect to the robot at full extension and reproducing all kinematics while multiple registrations consisted of registering the bones at each flexion angle and reproducing only the kinematics of the corresponding flexion angle. Kinematics of the knee in response to an anterior (134 N) and combined internal/external (+/-10 N m) and varus/valgus (+/-5 N m) loads were collected at 0 degrees , 15 degrees , 30 degrees , 60 degrees , and 90 degrees of flexion. A six axes, serial-articulated robotic manipulator (PUMA Model 762) was calibrated and the working volume was reduced to improve the robot's accuracy. The effect of the robot joint configuration was determined by performing single and multiple registrations for three selected configurations. For each robot joint configuration, the accuracy in position of the reproduced kinematics improved after multiple registrations (0.7+/-0.3, 1.2+/-0.5, and 0.9+/-0.2 mm, respectively) when compared to only a single registration (1.3+/-0.9, 2.0+/-1.0, and 1.5+/-0.7 mm, respectively) (p<0.05). The accuracy in position of each robot joint configuration was unique as significant differences were detected between each of the configurations. These data demonstrate that the number of registrations and the robot joint configuration both affect the accuracy of the reproduced kinematics. Therefore, when using robotic technology to reproduce previously recorded kinematics, it may be necessary to perform these analyses for each individual robotic system and for each diarthrodial joint, as different joints will require the robot to be placed in different robot joint configurations.

Operator based integration of information in multimodal radiological search mission with applications to anomaly detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Benedetto, J.; Cloninger, A.; Czaja, W.; Doster, T.; Kochersberger, K.; Manning, B.; McCullough, T.; McLane, M.

2014-05-01

Successful performance of radiological search mission is dependent on effective utilization of mixture of signals. Examples of modalities include, e.g., EO imagery and gamma radiation data, or radiation data collected during multiple events. In addition, elevation data or spatial proximity can be used to enhance the performance of acquisition systems. State of the art techniques in processing and exploitation of complex information manifolds rely on diffusion operators. Our approach involves machine learning techniques based on analysis of joint data- dependent graphs and their associated diffusion kernels. Then, the significant eigenvectors of the derived fused graph Laplace and Schroedinger operators form the new representation, which provides integrated features from the heterogeneous input data. The families of data-dependent Laplace and Schroedinger operators on joint data graphs, shall be integrated by means of appropriately designed fusion metrics. These fused representations are used for target and anomaly detection.

Multiple Periprosthetic Joint Infections: Evidence for Decreasing Prevalence.

PubMed

Haverstock, John P; Somerville, Lyndsa E; Naudie, Douglas D; Howard, James L

2016-12-01

Multiple periprosthetic joint infections (MPJIs) are uncommon. We determine the prevalence of developing a second-site periprosthetic joint infection. Our institutional arthroplasty database was reviewed. Those who developed a second-site infection had a retrospective chart review to determine the pathogen, timing of infection, comorbidities, and results of treatment. Thirteen of 206 (6.3%) patients at-risk for MPJI experienced a second periprosthetic joint infection. Mode of the second infection was hematogenous in 6, all of whom were being treated for the index periprosthetic joint infection. Seven secondary infections did not relate to the index infection. Two patients were lost to follow-up, 5 continued on suppressive antibiotics, and 6 successfully cleared infection. The prevalence of MPJI has decreased compared with previous reports. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Joint models for longitudinal and time-to-event data: a review of reporting quality with a view to meta-analysis.

PubMed

Sudell, Maria; Kolamunnage-Dona, Ruwanthi; Tudur-Smith, Catrin

2016-12-05

Joint models for longitudinal and time-to-event data are commonly used to simultaneously analyse correlated data in single study cases. Synthesis of evidence from multiple studies using meta-analysis is a natural next step but its feasibility depends heavily on the standard of reporting of joint models in the medical literature. During this review we aim to assess the current standard of reporting of joint models applied in the literature, and to determine whether current reporting standards would allow or hinder future aggregate data meta-analyses of model results. We undertook a literature review of non-methodological studies that involved joint modelling of longitudinal and time-to-event medical data. Study characteristics were extracted and an assessment of whether separate meta-analyses for longitudinal, time-to-event and association parameters were possible was made. The 65 studies identified used a wide range of joint modelling methods in a selection of software. Identified studies concerned a variety of disease areas. The majority of studies reported adequate information to conduct a meta-analysis (67.7% for longitudinal parameter aggregate data meta-analysis, 69.2% for time-to-event parameter aggregate data meta-analysis, 76.9% for association parameter aggregate data meta-analysis). In some cases model structure was difficult to ascertain from the published reports. Whilst extraction of sufficient information to permit meta-analyses was possible in a majority of cases, the standard of reporting of joint models should be maintained and improved. Recommendations for future practice include clear statement of model structure, of values of estimated parameters, of software used and of statistical methods applied.

Estimation of Causal Mediation Effects for a Dichotomous Outcome in Multiple-Mediator Models using the Mediation Formula

PubMed Central

Nelson, Suchitra; Albert, Jeffrey M.

2013-01-01

Mediators are intermediate variables in the causal pathway between an exposure and an outcome. Mediation analysis investigates the extent to which exposure effects occur through these variables, thus revealing causal mechanisms. In this paper, we consider the estimation of the mediation effect when the outcome is binary and multiple mediators of different types exist. We give a precise definition of the total mediation effect as well as decomposed mediation effects through individual or sets of mediators using the potential outcomes framework. We formulate a model of joint distribution (probit-normal) using continuous latent variables for any binary mediators to account for correlations among multiple mediators. A mediation formula approach is proposed to estimate the total mediation effect and decomposed mediation effects based on this parametric model. Estimation of mediation effects through individual or subsets of mediators requires an assumption involving the joint distribution of multiple counterfactuals. We conduct a simulation study that demonstrates low bias of mediation effect estimators for two-mediator models with various combinations of mediator types. The results also show that the power to detect a non-zero total mediation effect increases as the correlation coefficient between two mediators increases, while power for individual mediation effects reaches a maximum when the mediators are uncorrelated. We illustrate our approach by applying it to a retrospective cohort study of dental caries in adolescents with low and high socioeconomic status. Sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the robustness of conclusions regarding mediation effects when the assumption of no unmeasured mediator-outcome confounders is violated. PMID:23650048

Estimation of causal mediation effects for a dichotomous outcome in multiple-mediator models using the mediation formula.

PubMed

Wang, Wei; Nelson, Suchitra; Albert, Jeffrey M

2013-10-30

Mediators are intermediate variables in the causal pathway between an exposure and an outcome. Mediation analysis investigates the extent to which exposure effects occur through these variables, thus revealing causal mechanisms. In this paper, we consider the estimation of the mediation effect when the outcome is binary and multiple mediators of different types exist. We give a precise definition of the total mediation effect as well as decomposed mediation effects through individual or sets of mediators using the potential outcomes framework. We formulate a model of joint distribution (probit-normal) using continuous latent variables for any binary mediators to account for correlations among multiple mediators. A mediation formula approach is proposed to estimate the total mediation effect and decomposed mediation effects based on this parametric model. Estimation of mediation effects through individual or subsets of mediators requires an assumption involving the joint distribution of multiple counterfactuals. We conduct a simulation study that demonstrates low bias of mediation effect estimators for two-mediator models with various combinations of mediator types. The results also show that the power to detect a nonzero total mediation effect increases as the correlation coefficient between two mediators increases, whereas power for individual mediation effects reaches a maximum when the mediators are uncorrelated. We illustrate our approach by applying it to a retrospective cohort study of dental caries in adolescents with low and high socioeconomic status. Sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the robustness of conclusions regarding mediation effects when the assumption of no unmeasured mediator-outcome confounders is violated. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Wide field of view CT and acromioclavicular joint instability: A technical innovation.

PubMed

Dyer, David R; Troupis, John M; Kamali Moaveni, Afshin

2015-06-01

A 21-year-old female with a traumatic shoulder injury is investigated and managed for symptoms relating to this injury. Pathology at the acromioclavicular joint is detected clinically; however, clinical examination and multiple imaging modalities do not reach a unified diagnosis on the grading of this acromioclavicular joint injury. When management appropriate to that suggested injury grading fail to help the patient's symptoms, further investigation methods were utilised. Wide field of view, dynamic CT (4D CT) is conducted on the patient's affected shoulder using a 320 × 0.5 mm detector multislice CT. Scans were conducted with a static table as the patient completed three movements of the affected shoulder. Capturing multiple data sets per second over a z-axis of 16 cm, measurements of the acromioclavicular joint were made, to show dynamic changes at the joint. Acromioclavicular (AC) joint translations were witnessed in three planes (a previously unrecognised pathology in the grading of acromioclavicular joint injuries). Translation in multiple planes was also not evident on careful clinical examination of this patient. AC joint width, anterior-posterior translation, superior-inferior translation and coracoclavicular width were measured with planar reconstructions while volume-rendered images and dynamic sequences aiding visual understanding of the pathology. Wide field of view dynamic CT (4D CT) is an accurate and quick modality to diagnose complex acromioclavicular joint injury. It provides dynamic information that no other modality can; 4D CT shows future benefits for clinical approach to diagnosis and management of acromioclavicular joint injury, and other musculoskeletal pathologies. © 2015 The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists.

Managing Recurrence in Intraarticular Melorheostosis Involving the Knee Joint: A Case Report

PubMed Central

John, Bobby; Sharma, Anirudh; Pandey, Ritesh A

2017-01-01

Introduction: Melorheostosis is a rare benign sclerosing dysplasia affecting bone, which causes significant morbidity in the form of pain and restriction of joint movement. Treatment options are varied, and recurrence is common after surgical treatment. Choosing the most appropriate treatment option in the management of a recurrent case is challenging, with very little supporting evidence in literature owing to the rarity of the disease. We hereby present a case of recurrent melorheostosis involving the knee; discuss treatment options and the rationale of our treatment. Case Report: We present the case of a 42-year-old female who was operated at our institution previously 7 years ago for melorheostosis of her left knee and had undergone excision of intrarticular hyperostotic masses. However, pain and limitation of motion recurred in the operated knee 4 years later, and radiographs and computed tomography revealed a mineralized mass situated behind the patella in the patellofemoral joint. She was treated with repeat open excision of the mass and put on a regimen of physiotherapy and bisphosphonates. Conclusion: Open excision of symptomatic hyperostotic or mineralized soft tissue masses is perhaps the favored treatment option in such cases, the other options being arthroscopic excision and total knee arthroplasty. Limited knee motion and size of the mass often make arthroscopy an unfeasible option. Total knee arthroplasty should be reserved for cases with significant flexion contractures of the knee, or where multiple excisions have failed. PMID:29242791

Neural mechanisms and models underlying joint action.

PubMed

Chersi, Fabian

2011-06-01

Humans, in particular, and to a lesser extent also other species of animals, possess the impressive capability of smoothly coordinating their actions with those of others. The great amount of work done in recent years in neuroscience has provided new insights into the processes involved in joint action, intention understanding, and task sharing. In particular, the discovery of mirror neurons, which fire both when animals execute actions and when they observe the same actions done by other individuals, has shed light on the intimate relationship between perception and action elucidating the direct contribution of motor knowledge to action understanding. Up to date, however, a detailed description of the neural processes involved in these phenomena is still mostly lacking. Building upon data from single neuron recordings in monkeys observing the actions of a demonstrator and then executing the same or a complementary action, this paper describes the functioning of a biologically constraint neural network model of the motor and mirror systems during joint action. In this model, motor sequences are encoded as independent neuronal chains that represent concatenations of elementary motor acts leading to a specific goal. Action execution and recognition are achieved through the propagation of activity within specific chains. Due to the dual property of mirror neurons, the same architecture is capable of smoothly integrating and switching between observed and self-generated action sequences, thus allowing to evaluate multiple hypotheses simultaneously, understand actions done by others, and to respond in an appropriate way.

Musculoskeletal disease burden of hereditary hemochromatosis.

PubMed

Sahinbegovic, Enijad; Dallos, Tomáš; Aigner, Elmar; Axmann, Roland; Manger, Bernhard; Englbrecht, Matthias; Schöniger-Hekele, Maximilian; Karonitsch, Thomas; Stamm, Tanja; Farkas, Martin; Karger, Thomas; Stölzel, Ulrich; Keysser, Gernot; Datz, Christian; Schett, Georg; Zwerina, Jochen

2010-12-01

To determine the prevalence, clinical picture, and disease burden of arthritis in patients with hereditary hemochromatosis. In this cross-sectional observational study of 199 patients with hemochromatosis and iron overload, demographic and disease-specific variables, genotype, and organ involvement were recorded. The prevalence, intensity, and localization of joint pain were assessed, and a complete rheumatologic investigation was performed. Radiographs of the hands, knees, and ankles were scored for joint space narrowing, erosions, osteophytes, and chondrocalcinosis. In addition, the number and type of joint replacement surgeries were recorded. Joint pain was reported by 72.4% of the patients. Their mean ± SD age at the time of the initial joint symptoms was 45.8 ± 13.2 years. If joint pain was present, it preceded the diagnosis of hemochromatosis by a mean ± SD of 9.0 ± 10.7 years. Bony enlargement was observed in 65.8% of the patients, whereas synovitis was less common (13.6%). Joint space narrowing and osteophytes as well as chondrocalcinosis of the wrist and knee joints were frequent radiographic features of hemochromatosis. Joint replacement surgery was common, with 32 patients (16.1%) undergoing total joint replacement surgery due to severe OA. The mean ± SD age of these patients was 58.3 ± 10.4 years at time of joint replacement surgery. Female sex, metacarpophalangeal joint involvement, and the presence of chondrocalcinosis were associated with a higher risk of early joint failure (i.e., the need for joint replacement surgery). Arthritis is a frequent, early, and severe symptom of hemochromatosis. Disease is not confined to involvement of the metacarpophalangeal joints and often leads to severe damage requiring the replacement of joints. Copyright © 2010 by the American College of Rheumatology.

Identification of the contribution of the ankle and hip joints to multi-segmental balance control

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Human stance involves multiple segments, including the legs and trunk, and requires coordinated actions of both. A novel method was developed that reliably estimates the contribution of the left and right leg (i.e., the ankle and hip joints) to the balance control of individual subjects. Methods The method was evaluated using simulations of a double-inverted pendulum model and the applicability was demonstrated with an experiment with seven healthy and one Parkinsonian participant. Model simulations indicated that two perturbations are required to reliably estimate the dynamics of a double-inverted pendulum balance control system. In the experiment, two multisine perturbation signals were applied simultaneously. The balance control system dynamic behaviour of the participants was estimated by Frequency Response Functions (FRFs), which relate ankle and hip joint angles to joint torques, using a multivariate closed-loop system identification technique. Results In the model simulations, the FRFs were reliably estimated, also in the presence of realistic levels of noise. In the experiment, the participants responded consistently to the perturbations, indicated by low noise-to-signal ratios of the ankle angle (0.24), hip angle (0.28), ankle torque (0.07), and hip torque (0.33). The developed method could detect that the Parkinson patient controlled his balance asymmetrically, that is, the right ankle and hip joints produced more corrective torque. Conclusion The method allows for a reliable estimate of the multisegmental feedback mechanism that stabilizes stance, of individual participants and of separate legs. PMID:23433148

Methods for the Joint Meta-Analysis of Multiple Tests

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trikalinos, Thomas A.; Hoaglin, David C.; Small, Kevin M.; Terrin, Norma; Schmid, Christopher H.

2014-01-01

Existing methods for meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy focus primarily on a single index test. We propose models for the joint meta-analysis of studies comparing multiple index tests on the same participants in paired designs. These models respect the grouping of data by studies, account for the within-study correlation between the tests'…

Second-site prosthetic joint infection in patients with multiple prosthetic joints.

PubMed

Clesham, Kevin; Hughes, Andrew J; O' hEireamhoin, Sven; Fleming, Catherine; Murphy, Colin G

2018-04-10

Prosthetic joint infections (PJIs) are among the most serious complications in arthroplasty. A second-site PJI in patients with multiple prosthetic joints increases morbidity, with many requiring further revision procedures. We aimed to establish why some patients with multiple joints develop second-site infections. Our institution's arthroplasty database was reviewed from 2004 to 2017. All PJIs were identified, and all patients with more than one prosthetic joint in situ were included. We recorded risk factors, causative organisms, number of procedures and length of stay. Forty-four patients meeting the criteria were identified. Four patients (9.1%) developed second-site infection. Eight patients (18.2%) developed re-infection of the primary PJI. Positive MRSA carrier status and PJI of a total knee replacement were associated with an increased risk of a second episode of infection. Patients who developed further infection had more frequent admission and longer lengths of stay than isolated PJIs. Higher morbidity and use of hospital resources are associated with this cohort of patients. PJIs in total knee replacements and positive MRSA status are associated with higher rates of second infection. Identifying this vulnerable cohort of patients at an early stage is critical to ensure measures are taken to reduce the risks of further infection.

Joint ventures: to pursue or not to pursue?

PubMed

Blaszyk, Michael D; Hill-Mischel, Jody

2007-11-01

Hospitals should carefully select joint venture partners. The joint venture evaluation process should involve a high-level screen of strategic opportunities. Hospitals should develop a full business plan for the joint venture.

BIOMECHANICS AND PATHOMECHANICS OF THE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

The patellofemoral joint is a joint that can be an area of concern for athletes of various sports and ages. The joint is somewhat complex with multiple contact points and numerous tissues that attach to the patella. Joint forces are variable and depend on the degree of knee flexion and whether the foot is in contact with the ground. The sports medicine specialist must have a good working knowledge of the anatomy and biomechanics of the patellofemoral joint in order to treat it effectively. PMID:27904787

Joint-specific risk of impaired function in fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP).

PubMed

Pignolo, Robert J; Durbin-Johnson, Blythe P; Rocke, David M; Kaplan, Frederick S

2018-04-01

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) causes progressive disability due to heterotopic ossification from episodic flare-ups. Using data from 500 FOP patients (representing 63% of all known patients world-wide), age- and joint-specific risks of new joint involvement were estimated using parametric and nonparametric statistical methods. Compared to data from a 1994 survey of 44 individuals with FOP, our current estimates of age- and joint-specific risks of new joint involvement are more accurate (narrower confidence limits), based on a wider range of ages, and have less bias due to its greater comprehensiveness (captures over three-fifths of the known FOP patients worldwide). For the neck, chest, abdomen, and upper back, the estimated hazard decreases over time. For the jaw, lower back, shoulder, elbow, wrist, fingers, hip, knee, ankle, and foot, the estimated hazard increases initially then either plateaus or decreases. At any given time and for any anatomic site, the data indicate which joints are at risk. This study of approximately 63% of the world's known population of FOP patients provides a refined estimate of risk for new involvement at any joint at any age, as well as the proportion of patients with uninvolved joints at any age. Importantly, these joint-specific survival curves can be used to facilitate clinical trial design and to determine if potential treatments can modify the predicted trajectory of progressive joint dysfunction. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Multivariate meta-analysis using individual participant data

PubMed Central

Riley, R. D.; Price, M. J.; Jackson, D.; Wardle, M.; Gueyffier, F.; Wang, J.; Staessen, J. A.; White, I. R.

2016-01-01

When combining results across related studies, a multivariate meta-analysis allows the joint synthesis of correlated effect estimates from multiple outcomes. Joint synthesis can improve efficiency over separate univariate syntheses, may reduce selective outcome reporting biases, and enables joint inferences across the outcomes. A common issue is that within-study correlations needed to fit the multivariate model are unknown from published reports. However, provision of individual participant data (IPD) allows them to be calculated directly. Here, we illustrate how to use IPD to estimate within-study correlations, using a joint linear regression for multiple continuous outcomes and bootstrapping methods for binary, survival and mixed outcomes. In a meta-analysis of 10 hypertension trials, we then show how these methods enable multivariate meta-analysis to address novel clinical questions about continuous, survival and binary outcomes; treatment–covariate interactions; adjusted risk/prognostic factor effects; longitudinal data; prognostic and multiparameter models; and multiple treatment comparisons. Both frequentist and Bayesian approaches are applied, with example software code provided to derive within-study correlations and to fit the models. PMID:26099484

Joint Disorders - Multiple Languages

MedlinePlus

... a new window. Arabic (العربية) Expand Section Home Care After Total Joint Replacement - العربية (Arabic) Bilingual PDF Health Information Translations Bosnian (bosanski) Expand Section Home Care After Total Joint Replacement - bosanski (Bosnian) Bilingual PDF Health Information ...

Effect of Multiple Local Repairs on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of T24 Steel Welded Joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaus, Alexander S.; Kuhajdová, Andrea; Marônek, Milan; Dománková, Mária

2018-05-01

The effect of multiple local repairs on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the T24 steel welded joints was studied. T24 steel tubes were butt-welded by the GTAW method. Peripheral welded joints were made in four locations of the tube. In order to simulate the repair procedure, the welds were cut off from the root and the first local repair was performed. Other two local repairs were carried out in the same way. After each local repair, the microstructure and mechanical properties of the joints were evaluated. The results of the mechanical tests demonstrate that only two local repairs can be performed on the T24 steel peripheral welded joint. After the third local repair, impact energy of the welded joint was lower than required value, which is attributed to the coarser martensite and the coarser carbide precipitates formed in the heat-affected zone, compared with the weld metal.

Joint Blind Source Separation by Multi-set Canonical Correlation Analysis

PubMed Central

Li, Yi-Ou; Adalı, Tülay; Wang, Wei; Calhoun, Vince D

2009-01-01

In this work, we introduce a simple and effective scheme to achieve joint blind source separation (BSS) of multiple datasets using multi-set canonical correlation analysis (M-CCA) [1]. We first propose a generative model of joint BSS based on the correlation of latent sources within and between datasets. We specify source separability conditions, and show that, when the conditions are satisfied, the group of corresponding sources from each dataset can be jointly extracted by M-CCA through maximization of correlation among the extracted sources. We compare source separation performance of the M-CCA scheme with other joint BSS methods and demonstrate the superior performance of the M-CCA scheme in achieving joint BSS for a large number of datasets, group of corresponding sources with heterogeneous correlation values, and complex-valued sources with circular and non-circular distributions. We apply M-CCA to analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data from multiple subjects and show its utility in estimating meaningful brain activations from a visuomotor task. PMID:20221319

Tensile and Fatigue Properties of Single and Multiple Dissimilar Welded Joints of DP980 and HSLA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, Q. L.; Parkes, D.; Westerbaan, D.; Nayak, S. S.; Zhou, Y.; Saha, D. C.; Liu, D.; Goodwin, F.; Bhole, S.; Chen, D. L.

2017-02-01

The present study focused on single and multiple dissimilar joints between DP980 and high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) galvanized steels. The tensile properties of the dissimilar joint between the strong DP980 and the relatively soft HSLA reflected only the properties of HSLA with plastic deformation, and final fracture took place entirely in HSLA. The fatigue properties of the dissimilar joints were more intriguing, with the strong DP980 outperforming at high stress amplitude and the ductile HSLA outperforming at low stress amplitude. For different load amplitudes, fatigue failure occurred in different materials and at different locations. The fatigue strength of DP980 was more negatively impaired by weld defects than that of HSLA.

Temporomandibular joint involvement caused by Borrelia Burgdorferi.

PubMed

Lesnicar, Gorazd; Zerdoner, Danijel

2007-12-01

Lyme borreliosis is an endemic disease in Slovenia with an incidence of around 150 patients per 100,000 inhabitants. Although the large joints are most typically affected in Lyme borreliosis, there are also periods of disease activity with arthritis or arthralgias involving smaller joints, including the temporo-mandibular joint. During the years between 2000 and 2003, two patients with Lyme borreliosis affecting the temporo-mandibular joints were treated. The patients presented with fatigue and pain in diverse muscle groups accompanied by arthralgia, which was most pronounced in the temporomandibular joint area. None of the patients were febrile or had joint effusions. Both patients were examined by means of biochemical and serological examinations for Borrelia burgdorferi using ELISA assay and Western blot test (both for IgM and IgG), plain radiographs, MR and CT scans, and scinti-scan of the temporo-mandibular joints They both had positive serum markers for an acute B. burgdorferi infection and were treated with intravenous ceftriaxone. None of the patients had clinical or laboratory signs of chronic Lyme disease activity two and four years following therapy, respectively. Roentgenographic and nuclear magnetic resonance imaging of the temporo-mandibular joints had not shown any persistent sign of acute inflammation. There are only few reports of patients with manifest temporo-mandibular joint involvement of Lyme borreliosis in the literature. This report emphasizes the importance of differential diagnosis of acute temporo-mandibular joint arthralgia, of early diagnosis of Lyme borreliosis, and of the necessity for prompt antibiotic treatment.

Asymmetric interjoint feedback contributes to postural control of redundant multi-link systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bunderson, Nathan E.; Ting, Lena H.; Burkholder, Thomas J.

2007-09-01

Maintaining the postural configuration of a limb such as an arm or leg is a fundamental neural control task that involves the coordination of multiple linked body segments. Biological systems are known to use a complex network of inter- and intra-joint feedback mechanisms arising from muscles, spinal reflexes and higher neuronal structures to stabilize the limbs. While previous work has shown that a small amount of asymmetric heterogenic feedback contributes to the behavior of these systems, a satisfactory functional explanation for this non-conservative feedback structure has not been put forth. We hypothesized that an asymmetric multi-joint control strategy would confer both an energetic and stability advantage in maintaining endpoint position of a kinematically redundant system. We tested this hypothesis by using optimal control models incorporating symmetric versus asymmetric feedback with the goal of maintaining the endpoint location of a kinematically redundant, planar limb. Asymmetric feedback improved endpoint control performance of the limb by 16%, reduced energetic cost by 21% and increased interjoint coordination by 40% compared to the symmetric feedback system. The overall effect of the asymmetry was that proximal joint motion resulted in greater torque generation at distal joints than vice versa. The asymmetric organization is consistent with heterogenic stretch reflex gains measured experimentally. We conclude that asymmetric feedback has a functionally relevant role in coordinating redundant degrees of freedom to maintain the position of the hand or foot.

Asymmetric interjoint feedback contributes to postural control of redundant multi-link systems

PubMed Central

Bunderson, Nathan E.; Ting, Lena H.; Burkholder, Thomas J.

2008-01-01

Maintaining the postural configuration of a limb such as an arm or leg is a fundamental neural control task that involves the coordination of multiple linked body segments. Biological systems are known to use a complex network of inter- and intra-joint feedback mechanisms arising from muscles, spinal reflexes, and higher neuronal structures to stabilize the limbs. While previous work has shown that a small amount of asymmetric heterogenic feedback contributes to the behavior of these systems, a satisfactory functional explanation for this nonconservative feedback structure has not been put forth. We hypothesized that an asymmetric multi-joint control strategy would confer both an energetic and stability advantage in maintaining endpoint position of a kinematically redundant system. We tested this hypothesis by using optimal control models incorporating symmetric versus asymmetric feedback with the goal of maintaining the endpoint location of a kinematically redundant, planar limb. Asymmetric feedback improved endpoint control performance of the limb by 16%, reduced energetic cost by 21% and increased interjoint coordination by 40% compared to the symmetric feedback system. The overall effect of the asymmetry was that proximal joint motion resulted in greater torque generation at distal joints than vice versa. The asymmetric organization is consistent with heterogenic stretch reflex gains measured experimentally. We conclude that asymmetric feedback has a functionally relevant role in coordinating redundant degrees of freedom to maintain the position of the hand or foot. PMID:17873426

Multivariate Meta-Analysis Using Individual Participant Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Riley, R. D.; Price, M. J.; Jackson, D.; Wardle, M.; Gueyffier, F.; Wang, J.; Staessen, J. A.; White, I. R.

2015-01-01

When combining results across related studies, a multivariate meta-analysis allows the joint synthesis of correlated effect estimates from multiple outcomes. Joint synthesis can improve efficiency over separate univariate syntheses, may reduce selective outcome reporting biases, and enables joint inferences across the outcomes. A common issue is…

Effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises with respect to deep muscle changes.

PubMed

Zhou, Bin; Huang, QiuChen; Zheng, Tao; Huo, Ming; Maruyama, Hitoshi

2015-05-01

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of neuromuscular joint facilitation on bridging exercises by assessing the cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis. [Subjects] Twelve healthy men. [Methods] Four exercises were evaluated: (a) supine resting, (b) bridging resistance exercise involving posterior pelvic tilting, (c) bridging resistance exercise involving anterior pelvic tilting, and (d) bridging resistance exercise involving neuromuscular joint facilitation. The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were measured during each exercise. [Results] The cross-sectional area of the multifidus muscle and thickness of the musculus transversus abdominis were significantly greater in the neuromuscular joint facilitation group than the others. [Conclusion] Neuromuscular joint facilitation intervention improves the function of deep muscles such as the multifidus muscle and musculus transversus abdominis. Therefore, it can be recommended for application in clinical treatments such as that for back pain.

Deployment Surveillance Summary, U.S. Army Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn/Operation Enduring Freedom, 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-10

and pain (overuse) (38 percent), joint derangement with neurological involvement (30 percent), sprain/strain/rupture of muscle or tendons (15...musculoskeletal conditions were joint derangement with neurological involvement of the lumbar spine (22 percent), inflammation and pain (overuse...musculoskeletal conditions leading to in-theater hospitalization were inflammation and pain (overuse) (63 percent), joint derangement with neurological

The Effects of Multiple-Joint Isokinetic Resistance Training on Maximal Isokinetic and Dynamic Muscle Strength and Local Muscular Endurance.

PubMed

Ratamess, Nicholas A; Beller, Noah A; Gonzalez, Adam M; Spatz, Gregory E; Hoffman, Jay R; Ross, Ryan E; Faigenbaum, Avery D; Kang, Jie

2016-03-01

The transfer of training effects of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training to dynamic exercise performance remain poorly understood. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the magnitude of isokinetic and dynamic one repetition-maximum (1RM) strength and local muscular endurance increases after 6 weeks of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training. Seventeen women were randomly assigned to either an isokinetic resistance training group (IRT) or a non-exercising control group (CTL). The IRT group underwent 6 weeks of training (2 days per week) consisting of 5 sets of 6-10 repetitions at 75-85% of subjects' peak strength for the isokinetic chest press and seated row exercises at an average linear velocity of 0.15 m s(-1) [3-sec concentric (CON) and 3-sec eccentric (ECC) phases]. Peak CON and ECC force during the chest press and row, 1RM bench press and bent-over row, and maximum number of modified push-ups were assessed pre and post training. A 2 x 2 analysis of variance with repeated measures and Tukey's post hoc tests were used for data analysis. The results showed that 1RM bench press (from 38.6 ± 6.7 to 43.0 ± 5.9 kg), 1RM bent-over row (from 40.4 ± 7.7 to 45.5 ± 7.5 kg), and the maximal number of modified push-ups (from 39.5 ± 13.6 to 55.3 ± 13.1 repetitions) increased significantly only in the IRT group. Peak isokinetic CON and ECC force in the chest press and row significantly increased in the IRT group. No differences were shown in the CTL group for any measure. These data indicate 6 weeks of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increases dynamic muscle strength and local muscular endurance performance in addition to specific isokinetic strength gains in women. Key pointsMultiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increases dynamic maximal muscular strength, local muscular endurance, and maximal isokinetic strength in women.Multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increased 1RM strength in the bench press (by 10.2%), bent-over barbell row (by 11.2%), and maximal modified push-up performance (by 28.6%) indicating a carryover of training effects to dynamic exercise performance.The carryover effects may be attractive to strength training and conditioning professionals seeking to include alternative modalities such as multiple-joint isokinetic dynamometers to resistance training programs.

The Effects of Multiple-Joint Isokinetic Resistance Training on Maximal Isokinetic and Dynamic Muscle Strength and Local Muscular Endurance

PubMed Central

Ratamess, Nicholas A.; Beller, Noah A.; Gonzalez, Adam M.; Spatz, Gregory E.; Hoffman, Jay R.; Ross, Ryan E.; Faigenbaum, Avery D.; Kang, Jie

2016-01-01

The transfer of training effects of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training to dynamic exercise performance remain poorly understood. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the magnitude of isokinetic and dynamic one repetition-maximum (1RM) strength and local muscular endurance increases after 6 weeks of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training. Seventeen women were randomly assigned to either an isokinetic resistance training group (IRT) or a non-exercising control group (CTL). The IRT group underwent 6 weeks of training (2 days per week) consisting of 5 sets of 6-10 repetitions at 75-85% of subjects’ peak strength for the isokinetic chest press and seated row exercises at an average linear velocity of 0.15 m s-1 [3-sec concentric (CON) and 3-sec eccentric (ECC) phases]. Peak CON and ECC force during the chest press and row, 1RM bench press and bent-over row, and maximum number of modified push-ups were assessed pre and post training. A 2 x 2 analysis of variance with repeated measures and Tukey’s post hoc tests were used for data analysis. The results showed that 1RM bench press (from 38.6 ± 6.7 to 43.0 ± 5.9 kg), 1RM bent-over row (from 40.4 ± 7.7 to 45.5 ± 7.5 kg), and the maximal number of modified push-ups (from 39.5 ± 13.6 to 55.3 ± 13.1 repetitions) increased significantly only in the IRT group. Peak isokinetic CON and ECC force in the chest press and row significantly increased in the IRT group. No differences were shown in the CTL group for any measure. These data indicate 6 weeks of multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increases dynamic muscle strength and local muscular endurance performance in addition to specific isokinetic strength gains in women. Key points Multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increases dynamic maximal muscular strength, local muscular endurance, and maximal isokinetic strength in women. Multiple-joint isokinetic resistance training increased 1RM strength in the bench press (by 10.2%), bent-over barbell row (by 11.2%), and maximal modified push-up performance (by 28.6%) indicating a carryover of training effects to dynamic exercise performance. The carryover effects may be attractive to strength training and conditioning professionals seeking to include alternative modalities such as multiple-joint isokinetic dynamometers to resistance training programs. PMID:26957924

Rheumatological manifestations in inflammatory bowel disease

PubMed Central

Voulgari, Paraskevi V.

2011-01-01

Rheumatological manifestations in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are frequent and include peripheral arthritis, axial involvement and peripheral enthesitis. Secondary osteoporosis and hypertrophic osteoarthropathy may also occur. Complications of IBD (e.g. septic arthritis) must be distinguished from sterile inflammation. Adverse effects of corticosteroid treatment, such as osteonecrosis, may also affect joints. Axial involvement ranges from low back pain to true ankylosing spondylitis. Human leukocyte antigen B27 is associated with axial involvement of IBD. Peripheral arthritis has been classified into two types. Type I is a pauciarticular, asymmetric usually non destructive arthritis affecting large joints and is usually associated with active bowel disease. Type II is a polyarthritis affecting small joints and tends to run a course independent of the bowel disease. Treatment of joint symptoms in IBD include sulphasalazine, azathioprine, methotrexate and glucocorticoids. Anti-tumor necrosis factor antibodies are effective in treating resistant or complicated Crohn’s disease as well as peripheral arthritis and axial involvement. PMID:24713717

Case Report: The casting motion to mobilize stiffness technique for rehabilitation after a crush and degloving injury of the hand.

PubMed

Midgley, Robyn

2016-01-01

Case report. This case report describes the use of the casting motion to mobilize stiffness (CMMS) technique in the management of a crush and degloving injury of the hand. The patient was unable to attend multiple hand therapy sessions due to geographic constraints. The CMMS technique involved the application of a nonremovable plaster of paris cast that selectively immobilizes proximal joints in an ideal position while constraining distal joints to direct desired motion over a long period. This uses active motion only. Traditional hand therapy techniques or modalities are not used. This treatment approach was beneficial to the patient as a minimum of 2 appointments per month were needed to regain functional hand use. To document the use of the CMMS technique as an effective treatment approach in the management of a crush and degloving injury of the hand. The CMMS technique was applied to the patient's left (nondominant) hand 8 weeks after injury. The technique's aim was to improve the 30° flexion deformity of the left wrist and flexion contractures of the index, middle, and ring fingers with a total active motion of 0°. Orthotic devices and traditional therapy were applied once joint stiffness was resolved, and a normal pattern of motion was reinstated. At 6 months, substantial improvement was noted in wrist as well as metacarpophalangeal and interphalangeal joints. Total active motion exceeded 170° in all fingers excellent functional outcome resulted as measured with the upper limb functional index short form-10. The upper limb functional index increased from 0% to 55% of preinjury status (or capacity) over the 18 months of therapy. Brief immobilization through casting causes certain functional losses, but these are temporary and reversible. Finger stiffness, edema, and tissue fibrosis were successfully managed with the CMMS technique without the need for attendance at multiple hand therapy sessions. Level V. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Joint Effects of Ambient Air Pollutants on Pediatric Asthma Emergency Department Visits in Atlanta, 1998–2004

EPA Science Inventory

Background: Because ambient air pollution exposure occurs in the form of mixtures, consideration of joint effects of multiple pollutants may advance our understanding of air pollution health effects. Methods: We assessed the joint effect of selected ambient air pollutant com...

Erdheim-Chester Disease Involving the Central Nervous System with the Unique Appearance of a Coated Vertebral Artery.

PubMed

Suzuki, Hime; Wanibuchi, Masahiko; Komatsu, Katsuya; Akiyama, Yukinori; Mikami, Takeshi; Sugita, Shintaro; Hasegawa, Tadashi; Kaya, Mitsunori; Takada, Kohichi; Mikuni, Nobuhiro

2016-10-01

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis. It is characterized by multiple xanthogranulomatous masses throughout the body, predominantly in the tibia. One of the characteristic radiological findings of the lesions associated with ECD is a "coated artery," which is often observed in the aorta. Although approximately one-fourth of ECD cases involve the central nervous system (CNS), an intracranial-coated artery has only been reported in four cases. We report a case of ECD that involves the CNS and has the unique appearance of a coated vertebral artery (VA). These tumors entirely encase the bilateral VAs without stenosis and are attached to the dura. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging also showed multiple extra-axial tumors in the cavernous sinus, the frontal convexity, and the orbital cavity. Further investigation revealed additional extracranial lesions around the cervical carotid artery, at the bilateral tibia, and at the elbow joint. A biopsy of the cervical and tibial lesions confirmed ECD. Steroid therapy resulted in a month-long improvement of preoperative symptoms. However, the patient's condition gradually progressed and he died of pneumonia 1 year after ECD diagnosis. The encasement of the intracranial artery by the tumor without stenosis and the dural attachment suggest ECD, which requires whole body investigation.

Erdheim-Chester Disease Involving the Central Nervous System with the Unique Appearance of a Coated Vertebral Artery

PubMed Central

Suzuki, Hime; Wanibuchi, Masahiko; Komatsu, Katsuya; Akiyama, Yukinori; Mikami, Takeshi; Sugita, Shintaro; Hasegawa, Tadashi; Kaya, Mitsunori; Takada, Kohichi; Mikuni, Nobuhiro

2016-01-01

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis. It is characterized by multiple xanthogranulomatous masses throughout the body, predominantly in the tibia. One of the characteristic radiological findings of the lesions associated with ECD is a “coated artery,” which is often observed in the aorta. Although approximately one-fourth of ECD cases involve the central nervous system (CNS), an intracranial-coated artery has only been reported in four cases. We report a case of ECD that involves the CNS and has the unique appearance of a coated vertebral artery (VA). These tumors entirely encase the bilateral VAs without stenosis and are attached to the dura. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging also showed multiple extra-axial tumors in the cavernous sinus, the frontal convexity, and the orbital cavity. Further investigation revealed additional extracranial lesions around the cervical carotid artery, at the bilateral tibia, and at the elbow joint. A biopsy of the cervical and tibial lesions confirmed ECD. Steroid therapy resulted in a month-long improvement of preoperative symptoms. However, the patient’s condition gradually progressed and he died of pneumonia 1 year after ECD diagnosis. The encasement of the intracranial artery by the tumor without stenosis and the dural attachment suggest ECD, which requires whole body investigation. PMID:28664013

Delineating the role of multiple intraarticular corticosteroid injections in the management of juvenile idiopathic arthritis in the biologic era.

PubMed

Papadopoulou, Charalampia; Kostik, Mikhail; Gonzalez-Fernandez, Maria Isabel; Bohm, Marek; Nieto-Gonzalez, Juan Carlos; Pistorio, Angela; Lanni, Stefano; Consolaro, Alessandro; Martini, Alberto; Ravelli, Angelo

2013-07-01

To investigate the outcome and predicting factors of multiple intraarticular corticosteroid (IAC) injections in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The clinical charts of patients who received their first IAC injection in ≥3 joints between January 2002 and December 2011 were reviewed. The corticosteroid used was triamcinolone hexacetonide for large joints and methylprednisolone acetate for small or difficult to access joints. In each patient, the followup period after IAC injection was censored in case of synovitis flare or at the last visit with continued remission. Predictors included sex, age at disease onset, JIA category, antinuclear antibody (ANA) status, age and disease duration, disease course, general anesthesia, number and type of injected joints, acute-phase reactants, and concomitant systemic medications. A total of 220 patients who had 1,096 joints injected were included. Following IAC therapy, 66.4% of patients had synovitis flare after a median of 0.5 years, whereas 33.6% of patients had sustained remission after a median of 0.9 years. The cumulative probability of survival without synovitis flare was 50.0%, 31.5%, and 19.5% at 1, 2, and 3 years, respectively. On Cox regression analysis, positive C-reactive protein value, negative ANA, lack of concomitant methotrexate administration, and a polyarticular (versus an oligoarticular) disease course were the strongest predictors for synovitis flare. Multiple IAC injection therapy induced sustained remission of joint synovitis in a substantial proportion of patients. A controlled trial comparing multiple IAC injection therapy and methotrexate versus methotrexate and a tumor necrosis factor antagonist is worthy of consideration. Copyright © 2013 by the American College of Rheumatology.

The Influence of the Heat-Affected Zone Mechanical Properties on the Behaviour of the Welding in Transverse Plate-to-Tube Joints.

PubMed

Lozano, Miguel; Serrano, Miguel A; López-Colina, Carlos; Gayarre, Fernando L; Suárez, Jesús

2018-02-09

Eurocode 3 establishes the component method to analytically characterize the structural joints between beam and columns. When one of the members involved in the joint is a hollow section (i.e., a tube) there is a lack of information for the specific components present in the joint. There are two different ways to bridge the gap: experimental testing on the actual beam column joints involving tubular sections; or numerical modelization, typically by means of finite element analysis. For this second option, it is necessary to know the actual mechanical properties of the material. As long as the joint implies a welding process, there is a concern related to how the mechanical properties in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) influence the behavior of the joint. In this work, some coupons were extracted from the HAZ of the beam-column joint. The coupons were tested and the results were implemented in the numerical model of the joint, in an attempt to bring it closer to the experimental results of the tested joints.

Computer-Based Radiographic Quantification of Joint Space Narrowing Progression Using Sequential Hand Radiographs: Validation Study in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients from Multiple Institutions.

PubMed

Ichikawa, Shota; Kamishima, Tamotsu; Sutherland, Kenneth; Fukae, Jun; Katayama, Kou; Aoki, Yuko; Okubo, Takanobu; Okino, Taichi; Kaneda, Takahiko; Takagi, Satoshi; Tanimura, Kazuhide

2017-10-01

We have developed a refined computer-based method to detect joint space narrowing (JSN) progression with the joint space narrowing progression index (JSNPI) by superimposing sequential hand radiographs. The purpose of this study is to assess the validity of a computer-based method using images obtained from multiple institutions in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Sequential hand radiographs of 42 patients (37 females and 5 males) with RA from two institutions were analyzed by a computer-based method and visual scoring systems as a standard of reference. The JSNPI above the smallest detectable difference (SDD) defined JSN progression on the joint level. The sensitivity and specificity of the computer-based method for JSN progression was calculated using the SDD and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Out of 314 metacarpophalangeal joints, 34 joints progressed based on the SDD, while 11 joints widened. Twenty-one joints progressed in the computer-based method, 11 joints in the scoring systems, and 13 joints in both methods. Based on the SDD, we found lower sensitivity and higher specificity with 54.2 and 92.8%, respectively. At the most discriminant cutoff point according to the ROC curve, the sensitivity and specificity was 70.8 and 81.7%, respectively. The proposed computer-based method provides quantitative measurement of JSN progression using sequential hand radiographs and may be a useful tool in follow-up assessment of joint damage in RA patients.

Joint swelling

MedlinePlus

... of arthritis caused by buildup of uric acid crystals in a joint ( gout ) Arthritis caused by wear ... osteoarthritis ) Arthritis caused by buildup of calcium-type crystals in joints ( pseudogout ) Disorder that involves arthritis and ...

FGF2 High Molecular Weight Isoforms Contribute to Osteoarthropathy in Male Mice

PubMed Central

Meo Burt, Patience; Xiao, Liping; Dealy, Caroline; Fisher, Melanie C.

2016-01-01

Humans with X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) and Hyp mice, the murine homolog of the disease, develop severe osteoarthropathy and the precise factors that contribute to this joint degeneration remain largely unknown. Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) is a key regulatory growth factor in osteoarthritis. Although there are multiple FGF2 isoforms the potential involvement of specific FGF2 isoforms in joint degradation has not been investigated. Mice that overexpress the high molecular weight FGF2 isoforms in bone (HMWTg mice) phenocopy Hyp mice and XLH subjects and Hyp mice overexpress the HMWFGF2 isoforms in osteoblasts and osteocytes. Given that Hyp mice and XLH subjects develop osteoarthropathies we examined whether HMWTg mice also develop knee joint degeneration at 2, 8, and 18 mo compared with VectorTg (control) mice. HMWTg mice developed spontaneous osteoarthropathy as early as age 2 mo with thinning of subchondral bone, osteophyte formation, decreased articular cartilage thickness, abnormal mineralization within the joint, increased cartilage degradative enzymes, hypertrophic markers, and angiogenesis. FGF receptors 1 and 3 and fibroblast growth factor 23 were significantly altered compared with VectorTg mice. In addition, gene expression of growth factors and cytokines including bone morphogenetic proteins, Insulin like growth factor 1, Interleukin 1 beta, as well as transcription factors Sex determining region Y box 9, hypoxia inducible factor 1, and nuclear factor kappa B subunit 1 were differentially modulated in HMWTg compared with VectorTg. This study demonstrates that overexpression of the HMW isoforms of FGF2 in bone results in catabolic activity in joint cartilage and bone that leads to osteoarthropathy. PMID:27732085

Multisite EPR oximetry from multiple quadrature harmonics.

PubMed

Ahmad, R; Som, S; Johnson, D H; Zweier, J L; Kuppusamy, P; Potter, L C

2012-01-01

Multisite continuous wave (CW) electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) oximetry using multiple quadrature field modulation harmonics is presented. First, a recently developed digital receiver is used to extract multiple harmonics of field modulated projection data. Second, a forward model is presented that relates the projection data to unknown parameters, including linewidth at each site. Third, a maximum likelihood estimator of unknown parameters is reported using an iterative algorithm capable of jointly processing multiple quadrature harmonics. The data modeling and processing are applicable for parametric lineshapes under nonsaturating conditions. Joint processing of multiple harmonics leads to 2-3-fold acceleration of EPR data acquisition. For demonstration in two spatial dimensions, both simulations and phantom studies on an L-band system are reported. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Extensor Tendon Injuries and Repairs in the Hand

PubMed Central

Kontor, J. A.

1982-01-01

Due to their superficial course, the extensor tendons are frequently lacerated over the dorsum of the hand and fingers. Excellent functional results are obtained in repairs of simple tendon lacerations. ‘Open’ mallet lacerations over the distal IP joint or involving the central extensor slip over the proximal IP joint require more precise suturing methods. More proximal extensor tendon divisions near the wrist involve dissection of the retracted finger extensors or long thumb extensor in the distal forearm and more formal tendon repairs, including a possible tendon transfer to the thumb. ‘Closed injuries’, with varying degrees of extensor tendon disruption, occur at three main sites. The mallet injury at the DIP joint and the boutonnière deformity over the PIP joint are sometimes recognized late, but respond to conservative splinting for a minimum of four weeks with guarded motion avoiding secondary stiffening of the remaining small joints of the hand. Surgery of closed injuries most frequently involves the intra-articular traction fracture type of mallet deformities in which the DIP joint has taken the brunt of the injury. PMID:21286174

Joint estimation over multiple individuals improves behavioural state inference from animal movement data.

PubMed

Jonsen, Ian

2016-02-08

State-space models provide a powerful way to scale up inference of movement behaviours from individuals to populations when the inference is made across multiple individuals. Here, I show how a joint estimation approach that assumes individuals share identical movement parameters can lead to improved inference of behavioural states associated with different movement processes. I use simulated movement paths with known behavioural states to compare estimation error between nonhierarchical and joint estimation formulations of an otherwise identical state-space model. Behavioural state estimation error was strongly affected by the degree of similarity between movement patterns characterising the behavioural states, with less error when movements were strongly dissimilar between states. The joint estimation model improved behavioural state estimation relative to the nonhierarchical model for simulated data with heavy-tailed Argos location errors. When applied to Argos telemetry datasets from 10 Weddell seals, the nonhierarchical model estimated highly uncertain behavioural state switching probabilities for most individuals whereas the joint estimation model yielded substantially less uncertainty. The joint estimation model better resolved the behavioural state sequences across all seals. Hierarchical or joint estimation models should be the preferred choice for estimating behavioural states from animal movement data, especially when location data are error-prone.

[Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the temporo mandibular joint. Differential diagnosis and therapy].

PubMed

Kunz, C; Leiggener, C S; Fridrich, K; Schmuziger, N; Hammer, B

2003-07-01

For the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), functional disorders are common but tumors and tumor like lesions are rare, although these are often mistaken for functional ailments. Early examination by computed tomography or, as a method of choice, magnetic resonance imaging is recommended in case of persisting TMJ problems. Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS) is a rare benign but locally destructive fibrohistiocytic lesion originating in synovial tissue. Involvement of the temporomandibular joint is extremely rare, with the average age of patients being 44.6 years. This paper reports on a 13-year-old patient with diffuse PVNS involving the middle ear and middle cranial fossa. The treatment of choice involves wide local excision and reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint with long-term follow-up. Pathogenesis and differential diagnosis are discussed.

Intervening on risk factors for coronary heart disease: an application of the parametric g-formula.

PubMed

Taubman, Sarah L; Robins, James M; Mittleman, Murray A; Hernán, Miguel A

2009-12-01

Estimating the population risk of disease under hypothetical interventions--such as the population risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) were everyone to quit smoking and start exercising or to start exercising if diagnosed with diabetes--may not be possible using standard analytic techniques. The parametric g-formula, which appropriately adjusts for time-varying confounders affected by prior exposures, is especially well suited to estimating effects when the intervention involves multiple factors (joint interventions) or when the intervention involves decisions that depend on the value of evolving time-dependent factors (dynamic interventions). We describe the parametric g-formula, and use it to estimate the effect of various hypothetical lifestyle interventions on the risk of CHD using data from the Nurses' Health Study. Over the period 1982-2002, the 20-year risk of CHD in this cohort was 3.50%. Under a joint intervention of no smoking, increased exercise, improved diet, moderate alcohol consumption and reduced body mass index, the estimated risk was 1.89% (95% confidence interval: 1.46-2.41). We discuss whether the assumptions required for the validity of the parametric g-formula hold in the Nurses' Health Study data. This work represents the first large-scale application of the parametric g-formula in an epidemiologic cohort study.

Reconstruction of the elbow and forearm for Ewing sarcoma of ulna: A new biological technique

PubMed Central

Puri, Ajay; Gulia, Ashish; Byregowda, Suman; Ramanujan, Vishnu

2016-01-01

Primary bone tumors around the elbow represent <1% of all the skeletal tumors. Surgery with or without adjuvant therapy (radiotherapy, chemotherapy) is the treatment of choice for malignant tumors. Reconstruction of the elbow and forearm in malignant tumors is challenging as it involves a complex interplay between multiple joints which need to be stabilized for the optimal functional outcome. We describe a new technique for the reconstruction of the elbow after resection of a proximal ulna tumor with articular radio-ulnar synostosis with the creation of a single bone forearm. We attempted to achieve a mobile elbow and stable wrist joint with the radio-ulnar union at the proximal articular surface of the ulna resulting in a single bone forearm. The procedure involves an oblique osteotomy preserving the olecranon process (after taking adequate margins based on oncological principles) and its articular cartilage along with the attachment of the triceps tendon. Then the radial head was partially denuded of its cartilage using a burr, leaving cartilage only on the volar side, and then fused to the remnant olecranon. Osteosynthesis was done using compression screw and tension band wiring. The advantages of this procedure are that the mobility at wrist and elbow are retained, it requires minimal hardware and allows for primary closure of the wound. PMID:27186061

An under-actuated origami gripper with adjustable stiffness joints for multiple grasp modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Firouzeh, Amir; Paik, Jamie

2017-05-01

Under-actuated robots offer multiple degrees of freedom without much added complexity to the actuation and control. Utilizing adjustable stiffness joints in these robots allows us to control their stable configurations and their mode of interaction with the environment. In this paper, we present the design of tendon-driven robotic origami (robogami) joints with adjustable stiffness. The proposed designs allow us to place joints along any direction in the plane of the robot and in the normal direction to the plane. The layer-by-layer manufacturing of robogamis facilitates the design and manufacturing of robots with different arrangement of joints for different applications. We use thermally activated shape memory polymer to control the joint stiffness. The manufacturing of the polymer layer is compatible with the layer-by-layer manufacturing process of the robogamis which results in scalable and customizable robots. To demonstrate, we prototyped an under-actuated gripper with three fingers and only one input actuation. The grasp mode of the gripper is set by adjusting the configuration of the locked joints and modulating the stiffness of the active joints. We present a model to estimate the configuration and the contact forces of the gripper at different settings that will assist us in design and control of future generation of under-actuated robogamis.

On measures of association among genetic variables

PubMed Central

Gianola, Daniel; Manfredi, Eduardo; Simianer, Henner

2012-01-01

Summary Systems involving many variables are important in population and quantitative genetics, for example, in multi-trait prediction of breeding values and in exploration of multi-locus associations. We studied departures of the joint distribution of sets of genetic variables from independence. New measures of association based on notions of statistical distance between distributions are presented. These are more general than correlations, which are pairwise measures, and lack a clear interpretation beyond the bivariate normal distribution. Our measures are based on logarithmic (Kullback-Leibler) and on relative ‘distances’ between distributions. Indexes of association are developed and illustrated for quantitative genetics settings in which the joint distribution of the variables is either multivariate normal or multivariate-t, and we show how the indexes can be used to study linkage disequilibrium in a two-locus system with multiple alleles and present applications to systems of correlated beta distributions. Two multivariate beta and multivariate beta-binomial processes are examined, and new distributions are introduced: the GMS-Sarmanov multivariate beta and its beta-binomial counterpart. PMID:22742500

Child Health Partnerships: a review of program characteristics, outcomes and their relationship.

PubMed

Jayaratne, Kapila; Kelaher, Margaret; Dunt, David

2010-06-17

Novel approaches are increasingly employed to address the social determinants of health of children world-wide. Such approaches have included complex social programs involving multiple stakeholders from different sectors jointly working together (hereafter Child Health Partnerships). Previous reviews have questioned whether these programs have led to significant improvements in child health and related outcomes. We aim to provide definitive answers to this question as well as identifying the characteristics of successful partnerships. A comprehensive literature search identified 11 major Child Health Partnerships in four comparable developed countries. A critical review is focused on various aspects of these including their target groups, program mechanics and outcomes. There was evidence of success in several major areas from the formation of effective joint operations of partners in different partnership models to improvement in both child wellbeing and parenting. There is emerging evidence that Child Health Partnerships are cost-effective. Population characteristics and local contexts need to be taken into account in the introduction and implementation of these programs.

Decoding complete reach and grasp actions from local primary motor cortex populations.

PubMed

Vargas-Irwin, Carlos E; Shakhnarovich, Gregory; Yadollahpour, Payman; Mislow, John M K; Black, Michael J; Donoghue, John P

2010-07-21

How the activity of populations of cortical neurons generates coordinated multijoint actions of the arm, wrist, and hand is poorly understood. This study combined multielectrode recording techniques with full arm motion capture to relate neural activity in primary motor cortex (M1) of macaques (Macaca mulatta) to arm, wrist, and hand postures during movement. We find that the firing rate of individual M1 neurons is typically modulated by the kinematics of multiple joints and that small, local ensembles of M1 neurons contain sufficient information to reconstruct 25 measured joint angles (representing an estimated 10 functionally independent degrees of freedom). Beyond showing that the spiking patterns of local M1 ensembles represent a rich set of naturalistic movements involving the entire upper limb, the results also suggest that achieving high-dimensional reach and grasp actions with neuroprosthetic devices may be possible using small intracortical arrays like those already being tested in human pilot clinical trials.

Burden of Restraint, Disablement and Ethnic Identity: A Case Study of Total Joint Replacement for Osteoarthritis

PubMed Central

Harrison, Tracie

2010-01-01

Health disparities in total joint replacement have been documented based on gender and ethnicity in multiple countries. Absent are studies exploring the meaning of the procedures among diverse women, which is necessary to fully understand the impact of the disparity. Drawing on ethnographic data from a life course exploration of disablement among Mexican American women with mobility impairments, one woman’s reasons for forgoing a joint replacement are considered. It is suggested that inequalities in disablement cannot be understood without considering the mulitple cultural conflicts and loyalties that push and pull women in multiple directions. PMID:21767094

Distributed Joint Source-Channel Coding in Wireless Sensor Networks

PubMed Central

Zhu, Xuqi; Liu, Yu; Zhang, Lin

2009-01-01

Considering the fact that sensors are energy-limited and the wireless channel conditions in wireless sensor networks, there is an urgent need for a low-complexity coding method with high compression ratio and noise-resisted features. This paper reviews the progress made in distributed joint source-channel coding which can address this issue. The main existing deployments, from the theory to practice, of distributed joint source-channel coding over the independent channels, the multiple access channels and the broadcast channels are introduced, respectively. To this end, we also present a practical scheme for compressing multiple correlated sources over the independent channels. The simulation results demonstrate the desired efficiency. PMID:22408560

Multivariate meta-analysis using individual participant data.

PubMed

Riley, R D; Price, M J; Jackson, D; Wardle, M; Gueyffier, F; Wang, J; Staessen, J A; White, I R

2015-06-01

When combining results across related studies, a multivariate meta-analysis allows the joint synthesis of correlated effect estimates from multiple outcomes. Joint synthesis can improve efficiency over separate univariate syntheses, may reduce selective outcome reporting biases, and enables joint inferences across the outcomes. A common issue is that within-study correlations needed to fit the multivariate model are unknown from published reports. However, provision of individual participant data (IPD) allows them to be calculated directly. Here, we illustrate how to use IPD to estimate within-study correlations, using a joint linear regression for multiple continuous outcomes and bootstrapping methods for binary, survival and mixed outcomes. In a meta-analysis of 10 hypertension trials, we then show how these methods enable multivariate meta-analysis to address novel clinical questions about continuous, survival and binary outcomes; treatment-covariate interactions; adjusted risk/prognostic factor effects; longitudinal data; prognostic and multiparameter models; and multiple treatment comparisons. Both frequentist and Bayesian approaches are applied, with example software code provided to derive within-study correlations and to fit the models. © 2014 The Authors. Research Synthesis Methods published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A review on interleukins: The key manipulators in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Sharma, Jatin; Bhar, Sutonuka; Devi, C Subathra

2017-09-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease associated with weakening of bones and joint pain. It primarily involves autoimmunity, matrix destruction, osteoclastogenesis, inflammation, and angiogenesis. Numerous cellular and humoral components of the immune system are involved in the etiology of diseases; however, the cardinal part is played by the inter-cellular signaling messengers called cytokines. Interleukins is a vaguely defined sub-class of cytokines that are abundantly found in the RA patients. The multifariousness and diversity in the function of the interleukins make them very likely to be associated with the pathogenesis in multiple ways. Nonetheless, the variety in opinions of researchers globally has led to contentious inferences. Ergo, in this review we have amalgamated the views of researchers from the past two decades till date to provide a comprehensive report about the role of interleukins in rheumatoid arthritis.

The lung may play a role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis

PubMed Central

Demoruelle, M Kristen; Solomon, Joshua J; Fischer, Aryeh; Deane, Kevin D

2015-01-01

Multiple studies have identified strong associations between the lung and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Such studies identify a high prevalence of lung disease, both airways and parenchymal disease, in subjects with clinically classifiable RA. It has been suggested that lung disease in RA results from targeting of the lung from circulating autoimmunity or other factors such as medications. However, findings that lung disease, specifically inflammatory airways disease, and lung generation of autoimmunity can be present before the onset of joint symptoms suggest that immune reactions in the lung may be involved in the initial development of RA-related autoimmunity. Herein we review these issues in detail, as well as outline a potential research agenda to understand the natural history of lung involvement in RA and its relation to the overall pathogenesis of RA. PMID:26089988

A Comprehensive Specimen-Specific Multiscale Data Set for Anatomical and Mechanical Characterization of the Tibiofemoral Joint

PubMed Central

Chokhandre, Snehal; Colbrunn, Robb; Bennetts, Craig; Erdemir, Ahmet

2015-01-01

Understanding of tibiofemoral joint mechanics at multiple spatial scales is essential for developing effective preventive measures and treatments for both pathology and injury management. Currently, there is a distinct lack of specimen-specific biomechanical data at multiple spatial scales, e.g., joint, tissue, and cell scales. Comprehensive multiscale data may improve the understanding of the relationship between biomechanical and anatomical markers across various scales. Furthermore, specimen-specific multiscale data for the tibiofemoral joint may assist development and validation of specimen-specific computational models that may be useful for more thorough analyses of the biomechanical behavior of the joint. This study describes an aggregation of procedures for acquisition of multiscale anatomical and biomechanical data for the tibiofemoral joint. Magnetic resonance imaging was used to acquire anatomical morphology at the joint scale. A robotic testing system was used to quantify joint level biomechanical response under various loading scenarios. Tissue level material properties were obtained from the same specimen for the femoral and tibial articular cartilage, medial and lateral menisci, anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments, and medial and lateral collateral ligaments. Histology data were also obtained for all tissue types to measure specimen-specific cell scale information, e.g., cellular distribution. This study is the first of its kind to establish a comprehensive multiscale data set for a musculoskeletal joint and the presented data collection approach can be used as a general template to guide acquisition of specimen-specific comprehensive multiscale data for musculoskeletal joints. PMID:26381404

D-002 (beeswax alcohols): concurrent joint health benefits and gastroprotection.

PubMed

Molina, Vivian; Mas, R; Carbajal, D

2015-01-01

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs include the traditional drugs and more selective COX-2 inhibitors. Traditional nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug use is hampered by their gastrotoxicity, while COX-2-inhibitors increase the cardiovascular risk. The search of safer substances for managing inflammatory conditions is updated, a challenge wherein dual COX/5-LOX inhibitors have a place. This review summarizes the benefits of D-002, a mixture of higher aliphatic beeswax alcohols, on joint health and gastric mucosa. D-002 elicits gastroprotection through a multiple mechanism that involves the increased secretion and improved quality of the gastric mucus, the reduction of hydroxyl radical, lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, neutrophil infiltration and the increase of antioxidant enzymes on the gastric mucosa. Consistently, D-002 inhibits NSAIDs, ethanol, pylorus-ligation and acetic acid-induced gastric ulceration in rats, and has reduced gastrointestinal symptoms in clinical studies. Early results found that D-002 was effective in the cotton pellet-induced granuloma and carrageenan-induced pleurisy model in rats, lowering pleural leukotriene B4 levels without causing gastrointestinal ulceration. However, D-002 effects on inflammation received little attention for years. Recent data have shown that D-002 inhibited both COX and 5-LOX activities with a greater affinity for 5-LOX and could act as a dual COX/5-LOX inhibitor. This mechanism might explain efficacy in experimental inflammatory and osteoarthritic models as well as clinical efficacy in osteoarthritic patients while supporting the lack of D-002 gastrotoxicity, but not the gastroprotective effects, which appear to be due to multiple mechanisms. In summary oral D-002 intake could help manage inflammatory conditions that impair joint health, while offering gastroprotection.

Management of chronic unstable acromioclavicular joint injuries.

PubMed

Cisneros, Luis Natera; Reiriz, Juan Sarasquete

2017-12-01

The acromioclavicular joint represents the link between the clavicle and the scapula, which is responsible for the synchronized dynamic of the shoulder girdle. Chronic acromioclavicular joint instability involves changes in the orientation of the scapula, which provokes cinematic alterations that might result in chronic pain. Several surgical strategies for the management of patients with chronic and symptomatic acromioclavicular joint instability have been described. The range of possibilities includes anatomical and non-anatomical techniques, open and arthroscopy-assisted procedures, and biological and synthetic grafts. Surgical management of chronic acromioclavicular joint instability should involve the reconstruction of the torn ligaments because it is accepted that from three weeks after the injury, these structures may lack healing potential. Here, we provide a review of the literature regarding the management of chronic acromioclavicular joint instability. Expert opinion, Level V.

Multiplicity counting from fission detector signals with time delay effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nagy, L.; Pázsit, I.; Pál, L.

2018-03-01

In recent work, we have developed the theory of using the first three auto- and joint central moments of the currents of up to three fission chambers to extract the singles, doubles and triples count rates of traditional multiplicity counting (Pázsit and Pál, 2016; Pázsit et al., 2016). The objective is to elaborate a method for determining the fissile mass, neutron multiplication, and (α, n) neutron emission rate of an unknown assembly of fissile material from the statistics of the fission chamber signals, analogous to the traditional multiplicity counting methods with detectors in the pulse mode. Such a method would be an alternative to He-3 detector systems, which would be free from the dead time problems that would be encountered in high counting rate applications, for example the assay of spent nuclear fuel. A significant restriction of our previous work was that all neutrons born in a source event (spontaneous fission) were assumed to be detected simultaneously, which is not fulfilled in reality. In the present work, this restriction is eliminated, by assuming an independent, identically distributed random time delay for all neutrons arising from one source event. Expressions are derived for the same auto- and joint central moments of the detector current(s) as in the previous case, expressed with the singles, doubles, and triples (S, D and T) count rates. It is shown that if the time-dispersion of neutron detections is of the same order of magnitude as the detector pulse width, as they typically are in measurements of fast neutrons, the multiplicity rates can still be extracted from the moments of the detector current, although with more involved calibration factors. The presented formulae, and hence also the performance of the proposed method, are tested by both analytical models of the time delay as well as with numerical simulations. Methods are suggested also for the modification of the method for large time delay effects (for thermalised neutrons).

Ultrasonography and detection of subclinical joints and tendons involvements in Systemic Lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients: A cross-sectional multicenter study.

PubMed

Salliot, Carine; Denis, Amélie; Dernis, Emmanuelle; Andre, Vincent; Perdriger, Aleth; Albert, Jean-David; Mammou Mraghni, Saloua; Griffoul-Espitalier, Isabelle; Hamidou, Mohamed; Le Goff, Benoit; Joulin, Sandrine Jousse; Marhadour, Thierry; Richez, Christophe; Poursac, Nicolas; Lazaro, Estebaliz; Rist, Stéphanie; Corondan, Anca; Quinten, Clara; Martaillé, Virginie; Valéry, Antoine; Ducourau, Emilie

2018-02-15

The aims of this study in SLE population were (1) to describe ultrasonography (US) joint abnormalities, (2) to estimate the reliability of clinical swollen joint count (C-SJC) and SLEDAI (C-SLEDAI) versus US-SJC and US-SLEDAI scores, (3) to highlight specific patterns of lupus patients with Power Doppler (PD) abnormalities. For this cross-sectional multicenter study, 151 consecutive adult SLE patients were recruited. Evaluation included a clinical standardized joint assessment, B-mode and PD US of 40 joints and 26 tendons blinded for clinical examination. Reliability and agreement between clinical and B-mode US were calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC [95% Confidence Interval]). We found a very high frequency of subclinical US abnormalities in asymptomatic patients: 85% of patients without joint symptoms had at least 1 US abnormality. Among them 46 patients (87%) had a history of joint involvement. The most frequent abnormalities were joint effusmaions (108 patients), synovial hypertrophy (SH, 109 patients) and synovitis (61 patients). Joint or tendon PD signal (grade>1) was found in 44% of patients (67/151). Synovitis were mainly located especially on MCPs and wrists. Even if reliability between clinical and grey-scale US SJC assessments was poor, reliability between clinical and US SLEDAI was good. Comparison between SLE patients with and without PD signal did not show any specific SLE pattern. US may be useful to assess joint involvement in SLE patients but did not significantly change SLEDAI score. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier SAS.

Modeling joint restoration strategies for interdependent infrastructure systems.

PubMed

Zhang, Chao; Kong, Jingjing; Simonovic, Slobodan P

2018-01-01

Life in the modern world depends on multiple critical services provided by infrastructure systems which are interdependent at multiple levels. To effectively respond to infrastructure failures, this paper proposes a model for developing optimal joint restoration strategy for interdependent infrastructure systems following a disruptive event. First, models for (i) describing structure of interdependent infrastructure system and (ii) their interaction process, are presented. Both models are considering the failure types, infrastructure operating rules and interdependencies among systems. Second, an optimization model for determining an optimal joint restoration strategy at infrastructure component level by minimizing the economic loss from the infrastructure failures, is proposed. The utility of the model is illustrated using a case study of electric-water systems. Results show that a small number of failed infrastructure components can trigger high level failures in interdependent systems; the optimal joint restoration strategy varies with failure occurrence time. The proposed models can help decision makers to understand the mechanisms of infrastructure interactions and search for optimal joint restoration strategy, which can significantly enhance safety of infrastructure systems.

Joint source based analysis of multiple brain structures in studying major depressive disorder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramezani, Mahdi; Rasoulian, Abtin; Hollenstein, Tom; Harkness, Kate; Johnsrude, Ingrid; Abolmaesumi, Purang

2014-03-01

We propose a joint Source-Based Analysis (jSBA) framework to identify brain structural variations in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). In this framework, features representing position, orientation and size (i.e. pose), shape, and local tissue composition are extracted. Subsequently, simultaneous analysis of these features within a joint analysis method is performed to generate the basis sources that show signi cant di erences between subjects with MDD and those in healthy control. Moreover, in a cross-validation leave- one-out experiment, we use a Fisher Linear Discriminant (FLD) classi er to identify individuals within the MDD group. Results show that we can classify the MDD subjects with an accuracy of 76% solely based on the information gathered from the joint analysis of pose, shape, and tissue composition in multiple brain structures.

Elbow joint angle and elbow movement velocity estimation using NARX-multiple layer perceptron neural network model with surface EMG time domain parameters.

PubMed

Raj, Retheep; Sivanandan, K S

2017-01-01

Estimation of elbow dynamics has been the object of numerous investigations. In this work a solution is proposed for estimating elbow movement velocity and elbow joint angle from Surface Electromyography (SEMG) signals. Here the Surface Electromyography signals are acquired from the biceps brachii muscle of human hand. Two time-domain parameters, Integrated EMG (IEMG) and Zero Crossing (ZC), are extracted from the Surface Electromyography signal. The relationship between the time domain parameters, IEMG and ZC with elbow angular displacement and elbow angular velocity during extension and flexion of the elbow are studied. A multiple input-multiple output model is derived for identifying the kinematics of elbow. A Nonlinear Auto Regressive with eXogenous inputs (NARX) structure based multiple layer perceptron neural network (MLPNN) model is proposed for the estimation of elbow joint angle and elbow angular velocity. The proposed NARX MLPNN model is trained using Levenberg-marquardt based algorithm. The proposed model is estimating the elbow joint angle and elbow movement angular velocity with appreciable accuracy. The model is validated using regression coefficient value (R). The average regression coefficient value (R) obtained for elbow angular displacement prediction is 0.9641 and for the elbow anglular velocity prediction is 0.9347. The Nonlinear Auto Regressive with eXogenous inputs (NARX) structure based multiple layer perceptron neural networks (MLPNN) model can be used for the estimation of angular displacement and movement angular velocity of the elbow with good accuracy.

Evaluation of the joint distribution at disease presentation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a large study across continents.

PubMed

Bergstra, Sytske Anne; Chopra, Arvind; Saluja, Manjit; Vega-Morales, David; Govind, Nimmisha; Huizinga, Tom W J; van der Helm-van Mil, Annette

2017-01-01

Genetic and environmental risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are population dependent and may affect disease expression. Therefore, we studied tender and swollen joint involvement in patients newly diagnosed with RA in four countries and performed a subanalysis within countries to assess whether the influence of autoantibody positivity affected disease expression. Patients with symptom duration <2 years fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism 2010 RA classification criteria were selected from METEOR (Measurement of Efficacy of Treatment in the Era of Outcome in Rheumatology), an international observational database, and the Dutch Leiden Early Arthritis Clinic. Indian (n=947), Mexican (n=141), South African (n=164) and Dutch (n=947) autoantibody-positive and negative patients with RA, matched by symptom duration, were studied for swollen and tender joint distribution. Between countries, the reported distribution of swollen joint distribution differed, with more knee synovitis in Mexico, South Africa and India compared with the Netherlands (37%, 36%, 30% and 13%) and more elbow (29%, 23%, 7%, 7%) and shoulder synovitis (21%, 11%, 0%, 1%) in Mexico and South Africa compared with India and the Netherlands.Since the number of autoantibody-negative patients in Mexico and South Africa was limited, Indian and Dutch autoantibody-positive and negative patients with RA were compared. The number of swollen and tender joints was higher in autoantibody-negative patients, but the overall distribution of involved joints was similar. Joint involvement at diagnosis does not differ between autoantibody-positive and negative patients with RA in India and the Netherlands. However, joint involvement is reported differently across countries. More research is needed whether these differences are cultural and/or pathogenetic.

Orthopaedic management of haemophilia arthropathy of the ankle.

PubMed

Pasta, G; Forsyth, A; Merchan, C R; Mortazavi, S M J; Silva, M; Mulder, K; Mancuso, E; Perfetto, O; Heim, M; Caviglia, H; Solimeno, L

2008-07-01

Joint bleeding, or haemarthrosis, is the most common type of bleeding episode experienced by individuals with haemophilia A and B. This leads to changes within the joints, including synovial proliferation, which results in further bleeding and chronic synovitis. Blood in the joint can also directly damage the cartilage, and with repeated bleeding, there is progressive destruction of both cartilage and bone. The end result is known as haemophilic arthropathy. The joints most commonly affected are the knees, elbows and ankles, although any synovial joint may be involved. In the ankle, both the tibiotalar and subtalar joints may be affected and joint bleeding and arthropathy can lead to a number of deformities. Haemophilic arthropathy can be prevented through regular factor replacement prophylaxis and implementing physiotherapy. However, when necessary, there are multiple surgical and non-surgical options available. In early ankle arthropathy with absent or minimal joint changes, both radioisotopic and chemical synoviorthesis can be used to reduce the hypertrophied synovium. These procedures can decrease the frequency of bleeding episodes, minimizing the risk of articular cartilage damage. Achilles tendon lengthening can be performed, in isolation or in combination with other surgical measures, to correct Achilles tendon contractures. Both arthroscopic and open synovectomies are available as a means to remove the friable villous layer of the synovium and are often indicated when bleeding episodes cannot be properly controlled by factor replacement therapy or synoviorthesis. In the later stages of ankle arthropathy, other surgical options may be considered. Debridement may be indicated when there are loose pieces of cartilage or anterior osteophytes, and can help to improve the joint function, even in the presence of articular cartilage damage. Supramalleolar tibial osteotomy may be indicated in patients with a valgus deformity of the hindfoot without degenerative radiographic findings. Joint fusion, or arthrodesis, is the treatment of choice in the advanced stages of ankle arthropathy although total ankle replacement is currently available. Early ankle replacement components were associated with a poor outcome, but as implant designs have improved, there have been successful outcomes achieved. As the ankle is a commonly affected joint in many individuals with haemophilia, it is important to add to the knowledge base to validate indications and timing of surgical and non-surgical interventions in ankle arthropathy.

The Cultural Context of Learning in International Joint Ventures.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Shimin; Vince, Russ

1999-01-01

A study of Chinese-Western joint business ventures showed that cultural context and different modes of managing and organizing must be considered. Successful joint ventures involve a process of collective, two-way learning. (SK)

Multiple joint muscle function with ageing: the force-velocity and power-velocity relationships in young and older men.

PubMed

Allison, Sarah J; Brooke-Wavell, Katherine; Folland, Jonathan P

2013-05-01

Whilst extensive research has detailed the loss of muscle strength with ageing for isolated single joint actions, there has been little attention to power production during more functionally relevant multiple joint movements. The extent to which force or velocity are responsible for the loss in power with ageing is also equivocal. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of force and velocity to the differences in power with age by comparing the force-velocity and power-velocity relationships in young and older men during a multiple joint leg press movement. Twenty-one older men (66 ± 3 years) and twenty-three young men (24 ± 2 years) completed a series of isometric (maximum and explosive) and dynamic contractions on a leg press dynamometer instrumented to record force and displacement. The force-velocity relationship was lower for the older men as reflected by their 19 % lower maximum isometric strength (p < 0.001). Explosive isometric strength (peak rate of force development) was 21 % lower for the older men (p < 0.05) but was similar between groups when normalised to maximum strength (p = 0.58). The power-velocity relationship was lower for the older men as shown by reduced maximum power (-28 %, p < 0.001) and lower force (-20 %, p < 0.001) and velocity (-11 %, p < 0.05). Whilst force and velocity were lower in older men, the decrement in force was greater and therefore the major explanation for the attenuation of power during a functionally relevant multiple joint movement.

A Functional Model of the Digital Extensor Mechanism: Demonstrating Biomechanics with Hair Bands

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cloud, Beth A.; Youdas, James W.; Hellyer, Nathan J.; Krause, David A.

2010-01-01

The action of muscles about joints can be explained through analysis of their spatial relationship. A functional model of these relationships can be valuable in learning and understanding the muscular action about a joint. A model can be particularly helpful when examining complex actions across multiple joints such as in the digital extensor…

Effects of Neoprene Wrist/Hand Splints on Handwriting for Students with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome: A Single System Design Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frohlich, Lauren; Wesley, Alison; Wallen, Margaret; Bundy, Anita

2012-01-01

Purpose: Pain associated with hypermobility of wrist and hand joints can contribute to decreased handwriting output. This study examined the effectiveness of a neoprene wrist/hand splint in reducing pain and increasing handwriting speed and endurance for students with joint hypermobility syndrome. Methods: Multiple baseline, single system design…

Joint representation of translational and rotational components of optic flow in parietal cortex

PubMed Central

Sunkara, Adhira; DeAngelis, Gregory C.; Angelaki, Dora E.

2016-01-01

Terrestrial navigation naturally involves translations within the horizontal plane and eye rotations about a vertical (yaw) axis to track and fixate targets of interest. Neurons in the macaque ventral intraparietal (VIP) area are known to represent heading (the direction of self-translation) from optic flow in a manner that is tolerant to rotational visual cues generated during pursuit eye movements. Previous studies have also reported that eye rotations modulate the response gain of heading tuning curves in VIP neurons. We tested the hypothesis that VIP neurons simultaneously represent both heading and horizontal (yaw) eye rotation velocity by measuring heading tuning curves for a range of rotational velocities of either real or simulated eye movements. Three findings support the hypothesis of a joint representation. First, we show that rotation velocity selectivity based on gain modulations of visual heading tuning is similar to that measured during pure rotations. Second, gain modulations of heading tuning are similar for self-generated eye rotations and visually simulated rotations, indicating that the representation of rotation velocity in VIP is multimodal, driven by both visual and extraretinal signals. Third, we show that roughly one-half of VIP neurons jointly represent heading and rotation velocity in a multiplicatively separable manner. These results provide the first evidence, to our knowledge, for a joint representation of translation direction and rotation velocity in parietal cortex and show that rotation velocity can be represented based on visual cues, even in the absence of efference copy signals. PMID:27095846

Joint analysis of multiple high-dimensional data types using sparse matrix approximations of rank-1 with applications to ovarian and liver cancer.

PubMed

Okimoto, Gordon; Zeinalzadeh, Ashkan; Wenska, Tom; Loomis, Michael; Nation, James B; Fabre, Tiphaine; Tiirikainen, Maarit; Hernandez, Brenda; Chan, Owen; Wong, Linda; Kwee, Sandi

2016-01-01

Technological advances enable the cost-effective acquisition of Multi-Modal Data Sets (MMDS) composed of measurements for multiple, high-dimensional data types obtained from a common set of bio-samples. The joint analysis of the data matrices associated with the different data types of a MMDS should provide a more focused view of the biology underlying complex diseases such as cancer that would not be apparent from the analysis of a single data type alone. As multi-modal data rapidly accumulate in research laboratories and public databases such as The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the translation of such data into clinically actionable knowledge has been slowed by the lack of computational tools capable of analyzing MMDSs. Here, we describe the Joint Analysis of Many Matrices by ITeration (JAMMIT) algorithm that jointly analyzes the data matrices of a MMDS using sparse matrix approximations of rank-1. The JAMMIT algorithm jointly approximates an arbitrary number of data matrices by rank-1 outer-products composed of "sparse" left-singular vectors (eigen-arrays) that are unique to each matrix and a right-singular vector (eigen-signal) that is common to all the matrices. The non-zero coefficients of the eigen-arrays identify small subsets of variables for each data type (i.e., signatures) that in aggregate, or individually, best explain a dominant eigen-signal defined on the columns of the data matrices. The approximation is specified by a single "sparsity" parameter that is selected based on false discovery rate estimated by permutation testing. Multiple signals of interest in a given MDDS are sequentially detected and modeled by iterating JAMMIT on "residual" data matrices that result from a given sparse approximation. We show that JAMMIT outperforms other joint analysis algorithms in the detection of multiple signatures embedded in simulated MDDS. On real multimodal data for ovarian and liver cancer we show that JAMMIT identified multi-modal signatures that were clinically informative and enriched for cancer-related biology. Sparse matrix approximations of rank-1 provide a simple yet effective means of jointly reducing multiple, big data types to a small subset of variables that characterize important clinical and/or biological attributes of the bio-samples from which the data were acquired.

Two-locus maximum lod score analysis of a multifactorial trait: joint consideration of IDDM2 and IDDM4 with IDDM1 in type 1 diabetes.

PubMed

Cordell, H J; Todd, J A; Bennett, S T; Kawaguchi, Y; Farrall, M

1995-10-01

To investigate the genetic component of multifactorial diseases such as type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus (IDDM), models involving the joint action of several disease loci are important. These models can give increased power to detect an effect and a greater understanding of etiological mechanisms. Here, we present an extension of the maximum lod score method of N. Risch, which allows the simultaneous detection and modeling of two unlinked disease loci. Genetic constraints on the identical-by-descent sharing probabilities, analogous to the "triangle" restrictions in the single-locus method, are derived, and the size and power of the test statistics are investigated. The method is applied to affected-sib-pair data, and the joint effects of IDDM1 (HLA) and IDDM2 (the INS VNTR) and of IDDM1 and IDDM4 (FGF3-linked) are assessed with relation to the development of IDDM. In the presence of genetic heterogeneity, there is seen to be a significant advantage in analyzing more than one locus simultaneously. Analysis of these families indicates that the effects at IDDM1 and IDDM2 are well described by a multiplicative genetic model, while those at IDDM1 and IDDM4 follow a heterogeneity model.

Two-locus maximum lod score analysis of a multifactorial trait: joint consideration of IDDM2 and IDDM4 with IDDM1 in type 1 diabetes.

PubMed Central

Cordell, H J; Todd, J A; Bennett, S T; Kawaguchi, Y; Farrall, M

1995-01-01

To investigate the genetic component of multifactorial diseases such as type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes mellitus (IDDM), models involving the joint action of several disease loci are important. These models can give increased power to detect an effect and a greater understanding of etiological mechanisms. Here, we present an extension of the maximum lod score method of N. Risch, which allows the simultaneous detection and modeling of two unlinked disease loci. Genetic constraints on the identical-by-descent sharing probabilities, analogous to the "triangle" restrictions in the single-locus method, are derived, and the size and power of the test statistics are investigated. The method is applied to affected-sib-pair data, and the joint effects of IDDM1 (HLA) and IDDM2 (the INS VNTR) and of IDDM1 and IDDM4 (FGF3-linked) are assessed with relation to the development of IDDM. In the presence of genetic heterogeneity, there is seen to be a significant advantage in analyzing more than one locus simultaneously. Analysis of these families indicates that the effects at IDDM1 and IDDM2 are well described by a multiplicative genetic model, while those at IDDM1 and IDDM4 follow a heterogeneity model. PMID:7573054

Efficacy of Periarticular Injection With a Long-Acting Local Analgesic in Joint Arthroplasty.

PubMed

Barrington, John W

2015-10-01

Attention to patient satisfaction is critical in today's health care environment-satisfaction surveys inform the development of hospital performance standards and can influence an institution's rankings and reimbursement. The effectiveness of postoperative pain management can affect clinical outcomes and also influence the patient's perception of the overall surgical experience. Ample clinical- trial data now exist that demonstrate the benefits of periarticular injections as part of a multimodal regimen in patients undergoing joint arthroplasty. One option that surgeons now use widely is bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension (EXPAREL®, Pacira Pharmaceuticals, Inc), a long-acting local analgesic that the orthopedic surgeon can administer intraoperatively. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved liposomal bupivacaine for injection into the surgical site to produce postsurgical analgesia. The safety and efficacy of liposomal bupivacaine has been demonstrated in clinical studies in multiple types of surgical procedure, including double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trials that involved over 1300 patients. In a case-control study comparing clinical and economic parameters before and after the introduction of liposomal bupivacaine as a component of the multimodal perioperative pain regimen for total joint arthroplasty, liposomal bupivacaine provided improved overall pain scores, an increase in patients reporting a pain score of 0, increased patient satisfaction, decreased length of stay, and a decrease in overall costs.

Chronic bowel inflammation and inflammatory joint disease: Pathophysiology.

PubMed

Speca, Silvia; Dubuquoy, Laurent

2017-07-01

Bowel inflammation is closely linked to chronic joint inflammation. Research reported in the 1980s demonstrated bowel inflammation with gross and microscopic pathological features identical to those of Crohn's disease in over 60% of patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA). Numerous prospective studies have evidenced joint involvement in patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and bowel inflammation in patients with SpA. Nevertheless, the interactions of joint disease and chronic bowel inflammation remain incompletely elucidated. Two main hypotheses have been suggested to explain potential links between inflammation of the mucosal immune system and peripheral arthritis: one identifies gut bacteria as potentially implicated in the development of joint inflammation and the other involves the recruitment of gut lymphocytes or activated macrophages to the joints. Pathophysiological investigations have established that HLA-B27 is a pivotal pathogenic factor. Here, we review current data on links between chronic bowel inflammation and inflammatory joint disease. Copyright © 2017 Société française de rhumatologie. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Multidisciplinary approaches to managing osteoarthritis in multiple joint sites: a systematic review.

PubMed

Finney, Andrew; Healey, Emma; Jordan, Joanne L; Ryan, Sarah; Dziedzic, Krysia S

2016-07-08

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence's Osteoarthritis (OA) guidelines recommended that future research should consider the benefits of combination therapies in people with OA across multiple joint sites. However, the clinical effectiveness of such approaches to OA management is unknown. This systematic review therefore aimed to identify the clinical and cost effectiveness of multidisciplinary approaches targeting multiple joint sites for OA in primary care. A systematic review of randomised controlled trials. Computerised bibliographic databases were searched (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsychINFO, BNI, HBE, HMIC, AMED, Web of Science and Cochrane). Studies were included if they met the following criteria; a randomised controlled trial (RCT), a primary care population with OA across at least two different peripheral joint sites (multiple joint sites), and interventions undertaken by at least two different health disciplines (multidisciplinary). The Cochrane 'Risk of Bias' tool and PEDro were used for quality assessment of eligible studies. Clinical and cost effectiveness was determined by extracting and examining self-reported outcomes for pain, function, quality of life (QoL) and health care utilisation. The date range for the search was from database inception until August 2015. The search identified 1148 individual titles of which four were included in the review. A narrative review was conducted due to the heterogeneity of the included trials. Each of the four trials used either educational or exercise interventions facilitated by a range of different health disciplines. Moderate clinical benefits on pain, function and QoL were reported across the studies. The beneficial effects of exercise generally decreased over time within all studies. Two studies were able to show a reduction in healthcare utilisation due to a reduction in visits to a physiotherapist or a reduction in x-rays and orthopaedic referrals. The intervention that showed the most promise used educational interventions delivered by GPs with reinforcement by practice nurses. There are currently very few studies that target multidisciplinary approaches suitable for OA across multiple joint sites, in primary care. A more consistent approach to outcome measurement in future studies of this nature should be considered to allow for better comparison.

Contribution of tibiofemoral joint contact to net loads at the knee in gait.

PubMed

Walter, Jonathan P; Korkmaz, Nuray; Fregly, Benjamin J; Pandy, Marcus G

2015-07-01

Inverse dynamics analysis is commonly used to estimate the net loads at a joint during human motion. Most lower-limb models of movement represent the knee as a simple hinge joint when calculating muscle forces. This approach is limited because it neglects the contributions from tibiofemoral joint contact forces and may therefore lead to errors in estimated muscle forces. The aim of this study was to quantify the contributions of tibiofemoral joint contact loads to the net knee loads calculated from inverse dynamics for multiple subjects and multiple gait patterns. Tibiofemoral joint contact loads were measured in four subjects with instrumented implants as each subject walked at their preferred speed (normal gait) and performed prescribed gait modifications designed to treat medial knee osteoarthritis. Tibiofemoral contact loads contributed substantially to the net knee extension and knee adduction moments in normal gait with mean values of 16% and 54%, respectively. These findings suggest that knee-contact kinematics and loads should be included in lower-limb models of movement for more accurate determination of muscle forces. The results of this study may be used to guide the development of more realistic lower-limb models that account for the effects of tibiofemoral joint contact at the knee. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Biomechanical Evaluation of a Prototype Foot/Ankle Prosthesis

PubMed Central

Quesada, P. M.; Pitkin, M.; Colvin, J.

2016-01-01

In this paper, we report on our pilot evaluation of a prototype foot/ankle prosthesis. This prototype has been designed and fabricated with the intention of providing decreased ankle joint stiffness during the middle portion of the stance phase of gait, and increased (i.e., more normal) knee range of motion during stance. Our evaluation involved fitting the existing prototype foot/ankle prosthesis, as well as a traditional solid ankle cushioned heel (SACH) foot, to an otherwise healthy volunteer with a below-knee (BK) amputation. We measured this individual’s lower extremity joint kinematics and kinetics during walking using a video motion analysis system and force platform. These measurements permitted direct comparison of prosthetic ankle joint stiffness and involved side knee joint motion, as well as prosthetic ankle joint moment and power. PMID:10779119

2D data-space cross-gradient joint inversion of MT, gravity and magnetic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pak, Yong-Chol; Li, Tonglin; Kim, Gang-Sop

2017-08-01

We have developed a data-space multiple cross-gradient joint inversion algorithm, and validated it through synthetic tests and applied it to magnetotelluric (MT), gravity and magnetic datasets acquired along a 95 km profile in Benxi-Ji'an area of northeastern China. To begin, we discuss a generalized cross-gradient joint inversion for multiple datasets and model parameters sets, and formulate it in data space. The Lagrange multiplier required for the structural coupling in the data-space method is determined using an iterative solver to avoid calculation of the inverse matrix in solving the large system of equations. Next, using model-space and data-space methods, we inverted the synthetic data and field data. Based on our result, the joint inversion in data-space not only delineates geological bodies more clearly than the separate inversion, but also yields nearly equal results with the one in model-space while consuming much less memory.

An efficient approach for inverse kinematics and redundancy resolution scheme of hyper-redundant manipulators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chembuly, V. V. M. J. Satish; Voruganti, Hari Kumar

2018-04-01

Hyper redundant manipulators have a large number of degrees of freedom (DOF) than the required to perform a given task. Additional DOF of manipulators provide the flexibility to work in highly cluttered environment and in constrained workspaces. Inverse kinematics (IK) of hyper-redundant manipulators is complicated due to large number of DOF and these manipulators have multiple IK solutions. The redundancy gives a choice of selecting best solution out of multiple solutions based on certain criteria such as obstacle avoidance, singularity avoidance, joint limit avoidance and joint torque minimization. This paper focuses on IK solution and redundancy resolution of hyper-redundant manipulator using classical optimization approach. Joint positions are computed by optimizing various criteria for a serial hyper redundant manipulators while traversing different paths in the workspace. Several cases are addressed using this scheme to obtain the inverse kinematic solution while optimizing the criteria like obstacle avoidance, joint limit avoidance.

A Fast EM Algorithm for Fitting Joint Models of a Binary Response and Multiple Longitudinal Covariates Subject to Detection Limits

PubMed Central

Bernhardt, Paul W.; Zhang, Daowen; Wang, Huixia Judy

2014-01-01

Joint modeling techniques have become a popular strategy for studying the association between a response and one or more longitudinal covariates. Motivated by the GenIMS study, where it is of interest to model the event of survival using censored longitudinal biomarkers, a joint model is proposed for describing the relationship between a binary outcome and multiple longitudinal covariates subject to detection limits. A fast, approximate EM algorithm is developed that reduces the dimension of integration in the E-step of the algorithm to one, regardless of the number of random effects in the joint model. Numerical studies demonstrate that the proposed approximate EM algorithm leads to satisfactory parameter and variance estimates in situations with and without censoring on the longitudinal covariates. The approximate EM algorithm is applied to analyze the GenIMS data set. PMID:25598564

Bird Habitat Conservation at Various Scales in the Atlantic Coast Joint Venture

Treesearch

Andrew Milliken; Craig Watson; Chuck Hayes

2005-01-01

The Atlantic Coast Joint Venture is a partnership focused on the conservation of habitats for migratory birds within the Atlantic Flyway/Atlantic Coast Region from Maine south to Puerto Rico. In order to be effective in planning and implementing conservation in this large and diverse area, the joint venture must work at multiple spatial scales, from the largest ?...

Morphogen-based simulation model of ray growth and joint patterning during fin development and regeneration.

PubMed

Rolland-Lagan, Anne-Gaëlle; Paquette, Mathieu; Tweedle, Valerie; Akimenko, Marie-Andrée

2012-03-01

The fact that some organisms are able to regenerate organs of the correct shape and size following amputation is particularly fascinating, but the mechanism by which this occurs remains poorly understood. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) caudal fin has emerged as a model system for the study of bone development and regeneration. The fin comprises 16 to 18 bony rays, each containing multiple joints along its proximodistal axis that give rise to segments. Experimental observations on fin ray growth, regeneration and joint formation have been described, but no unified theory has yet been put forward to explain how growth and joint patterns are controlled. We present a model for the control of fin ray growth during development and regeneration, integrated with a model for joint pattern formation, which is in agreement with published, as well as new, experimental data. We propose that fin ray growth and joint patterning are coordinated through the interaction of three morphogens. When the model is extended to incorporate multiple rays across the fin, it also accounts for how the caudal fin acquires its shape during development, and regains its correct size and shape following amputation.

Motion and force control of multiple robotic manipulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wen, John T.; Kreutz-Delgado, Kenneth

1992-01-01

This paper addresses the motion and force control problem of multiple robot arms manipulating a cooperatively held object. A general control paradigm is introduced which decouples the motion and force control problems. For motion control, different control strategies are constructed based on the variables used as the control input in the controller design. There are three natural choices; acceleration of a generalized coordinate, arm tip force vectors, and the joint torques. The first two choices require full model information but produce simple models for the control design problem. The last choice results in a class of relatively model independent control laws by exploiting the Hamiltonian structure of the open loop system. The motion control only determines the joint torque to within a manifold, due to the multiple-arm kinematic constraint. To resolve the nonuniqueness of the joint torques, two methods are introduced. If the arm and object models are available, an optimization can be performed to best allocate the desired and effector control force to the joint actuators. The other possibility is to control the internal force about some set point. It is shown that effective force regulation can be achieved even if little model information is available.

Characterizing the Joint Effect of Diverse Test-Statistic Correlation Structures and Effect Size on False Discovery Rates in a Multiple-Comparison Study of Many Outcome Measures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feiveson, Alan H.; Ploutz-Snyder, Robert; Fiedler, James

2011-01-01

In their 2009 Annals of Statistics paper, Gavrilov, Benjamini, and Sarkar report the results of a simulation assessing the robustness of their adaptive step-down procedure (GBS) for controlling the false discovery rate (FDR) when normally distributed test statistics are serially correlated. In this study we extend the investigation to the case of multiple comparisons involving correlated non-central t-statistics, in particular when several treatments or time periods are being compared to a control in a repeated-measures design with many dependent outcome measures. In addition, we consider several dependence structures other than serial correlation and illustrate how the FDR depends on the interaction between effect size and the type of correlation structure as indexed by Foerstner s distance metric from an identity. The relationship between the correlation matrix R of the original dependent variables and R, the correlation matrix of associated t-statistics is also studied. In general R depends not only on R, but also on sample size and the signed effect sizes for the multiple comparisons.

JOINT AND INDIVIDUAL VARIATION EXPLAINED (JIVE) FOR INTEGRATED ANALYSIS OF MULTIPLE DATA TYPES.

PubMed

Lock, Eric F; Hoadley, Katherine A; Marron, J S; Nobel, Andrew B

2013-03-01

Research in several fields now requires the analysis of datasets in which multiple high-dimensional types of data are available for a common set of objects. In particular, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) includes data from several diverse genomic technologies on the same cancerous tumor samples. In this paper we introduce Joint and Individual Variation Explained (JIVE), a general decomposition of variation for the integrated analysis of such datasets. The decomposition consists of three terms: a low-rank approximation capturing joint variation across data types, low-rank approximations for structured variation individual to each data type, and residual noise. JIVE quantifies the amount of joint variation between data types, reduces the dimensionality of the data, and provides new directions for the visual exploration of joint and individual structure. The proposed method represents an extension of Principal Component Analysis and has clear advantages over popular two-block methods such as Canonical Correlation Analysis and Partial Least Squares. A JIVE analysis of gene expression and miRNA data on Glioblastoma Multiforme tumor samples reveals gene-miRNA associations and provides better characterization of tumor types.

Modeling joint restoration strategies for interdependent infrastructure systems

PubMed Central

Simonovic, Slobodan P.

2018-01-01

Life in the modern world depends on multiple critical services provided by infrastructure systems which are interdependent at multiple levels. To effectively respond to infrastructure failures, this paper proposes a model for developing optimal joint restoration strategy for interdependent infrastructure systems following a disruptive event. First, models for (i) describing structure of interdependent infrastructure system and (ii) their interaction process, are presented. Both models are considering the failure types, infrastructure operating rules and interdependencies among systems. Second, an optimization model for determining an optimal joint restoration strategy at infrastructure component level by minimizing the economic loss from the infrastructure failures, is proposed. The utility of the model is illustrated using a case study of electric-water systems. Results show that a small number of failed infrastructure components can trigger high level failures in interdependent systems; the optimal joint restoration strategy varies with failure occurrence time. The proposed models can help decision makers to understand the mechanisms of infrastructure interactions and search for optimal joint restoration strategy, which can significantly enhance safety of infrastructure systems. PMID:29649300

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Syracuse, Ellen Marie; Maceira, Monica; Phillips, William Scott

These are slides which show many graphs and datasets for the above-mentioned topic and then concludes with the following: Joint inversion of multiple geophysical datasets improves recovery of velocity structures, particularly in Vs and in shallow parts of the model, in comparison to travel-time only models. Resulting fits to travel time data are minimally degraded by joint inversions. Correspondingly, fits to independent estimates of ground-truth locations are minimally affected by joint inversions.

A retrospective likelihood approach for efficient integration of multiple omics factors in case-control association studies.

PubMed

Balliu, Brunilda; Tsonaka, Roula; Boehringer, Stefan; Houwing-Duistermaat, Jeanine

2015-03-01

Integrative omics, the joint analysis of outcome and multiple types of omics data, such as genomics, epigenomics, and transcriptomics data, constitute a promising approach for powerful and biologically relevant association studies. These studies often employ a case-control design, and often include nonomics covariates, such as age and gender, that may modify the underlying omics risk factors. An open question is how to best integrate multiple omics and nonomics information to maximize statistical power in case-control studies that ascertain individuals based on the phenotype. Recent work on integrative omics have used prospective approaches, modeling case-control status conditional on omics, and nonomics risk factors. Compared to univariate approaches, jointly analyzing multiple risk factors with a prospective approach increases power in nonascertained cohorts. However, these prospective approaches often lose power in case-control studies. In this article, we propose a novel statistical method for integrating multiple omics and nonomics factors in case-control association studies. Our method is based on a retrospective likelihood function that models the joint distribution of omics and nonomics factors conditional on case-control status. The new method provides accurate control of Type I error rate and has increased efficiency over prospective approaches in both simulated and real data. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Variation in Treatment Recommendations for Dupuytren Disease.

PubMed

McMillan, Catherine; Yeung, Celine; Binhammer, Paul

2017-12-01

To examine agreement on Dupuytren disease (DD) treatment recommendations in an international sample of hand surgeons. A survey was developed to determine expertise in needle aponeurotomy, surgery, and collagenase injection to treat DD and to examine treatment recommendations for 16 case scenarios. Case scenarios were predeveloped using expert input. Each case represented a unique combination of 4 dichotomous variables including cord thickness, contracture severity, patient age, and joint involvement. Interrater reliability statistics were calculated and multinomial logistic regression modeling and analysis of variance were used to examine the impact of surgeon- and case-related variables on treatment recommendations. A total of 36 hand surgeons from 9 countries (mean experience, 17 years) participated. Average pairwise percent agreement and Krippendorff's alpha were 26% and .012, respectively. Predictors of a recommendation for surgery over multiple options were a total contracture of greater than 70°, a thick precentral cord, involvement of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints, and greater years in practice. A greater number of years in practice predicted recommendation for collagenase injection and the presence of a thick precentral cord predicted a recommendation for needle aponeurotomy. Little agreement exists on treatment recommendations for common presentations of DD in this sample. Further investigation into the sources of potential widespread discrepancies in the management of DD may improve the capacity to make evidence-based recommendations. Copyright © 2017 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluating Suit Fit Using Performance Degradation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Margerum, Sarah E.; Cowley, Matthew; Harvill, Lauren; Benson, Elizabeth; Rajulu, Sudhakar

2012-01-01

The Mark III planetary technology demonstrator space suit can be tailored to an individual by swapping the modular components of the suit, such as the arms, legs, and gloves, as well as adding or removing sizing inserts in key areas. A method was sought to identify the transition from an ideal suit fit to a bad fit and how to quantify this breakdown using a metric of mobility-based human performance data. To this end, the degradation of the range of motion of the elbow and wrist of the suit as a function of suit sizing modifications was investigated to attempt to improve suit fit. The sizing range tested spanned optimal and poor fit and was adjusted incrementally in order to compare each joint angle across five different sizing configurations. Suited range of motion data were collected using a motion capture system for nine isolated and functional tasks utilizing the elbow and wrist joints. A total of four subjects were tested with motions involving both arms simultaneously as well as the right arm by itself. Findings indicated that no single joint drives the performance of the arm as a function of suit size; instead it is based on the interaction of multiple joints along a limb. To determine a size adjustment range where an individual can operate the suit at an acceptable level, a performance detriment limit was set. This user-selected limit reveals the task-dependent tolerance of the suit fit around optimal size. For example, the isolated joint motion indicated that the suit can deviate from optimal by as little as -0.6 in to -2.6 in before experiencing a 10% performance drop in the wrist or elbow joint. The study identified a preliminary method to quantify the impact of size on performance and developed a new way to gauge tolerances around optimal size.

Treatment for Multiple Aspergillus Spondylitis Including a Hip Joint

PubMed Central

Oh, In-Soo; Seo, Jun-Yeong; Kim, Yoon-Chung

2009-01-01

Multiple aspergillus spondylitis (AS) is a life threatening infection that occurs more commonly in immunocompromised patients, and is commonly treated with antifungal agents. However, there is relatively little information available on the treatment of multiple AS. The authors encountered a 46-year-old man suffering from low back and neck pain with radiculomyelopathy after a liver transplant. The patient had concomitant multiple AS in the cervico-thoraco-lumbar spine and right hip joint, as confirmed by radiologic imaging studies. The pathological examination of a biopsy specimen revealed fungal hyphae at the cervical and lumbar spine. Anterior decompression and interbody fusion were performed for the cervical and lumbar lesions, which showed instability and related neurological symptoms. Additional antifungal therapy was also performed. The patient was treated successfully with remission of his symptoms. PMID:20404956

Treatment for multiple Aspergillus spondylitis including a hip joint.

PubMed

Oh, In-Soo; Seo, Jun-Yeong; Ha, Kee-Yong; Kim, Yoon-Chung

2009-12-01

Multiple aspergillus spondylitis (AS) is a life threatening infection that occurs more commonly in immunocompromised patients, and is commonly treated with antifungal agents. However, there is relatively little information available on the treatment of multiple AS. The authors encountered a 46-year-old man suffering from low back and neck pain with radiculomyelopathy after a liver transplant. The patient had concomitant multiple AS in the cervico-thoraco-lumbar spine and right hip joint, as confirmed by radiologic imaging studies. The pathological examination of a biopsy specimen revealed fungal hyphae at the cervical and lumbar spine. Anterior decompression and interbody fusion were performed for the cervical and lumbar lesions, which showed instability and related neurological symptoms. Additional antifungal therapy was also performed. The patient was treated successfully with remission of his symptoms.

Erosive osteoarthritis: a more severe form of radiographic hand osteoarthritis rather than a distinct entity?

PubMed Central

Marshall, Michelle; Nicholls, Elaine; Kwok, Wing-Yee; Peat, George; Kloppenburg, Margreet; van der Windt, Danielle; Myers, Helen; Dziedzic, Krysia

2015-01-01

Objectives To determine whether erosive osteoarthritis shares the same pattern of joint involvement and risk profile as increasing grades of non-erosive hand osteoarthritis. Methods Participants were from two population-based cohorts, aged ≥50 years, reporting hand symptoms in the previous month. Interphalangeal joints were assessed for erosive osteoarthritis (Verbruggen–Veys erosive or remodelled phase) and radiographic osteoarthritis (sliding cut-offs of K&L≥2, K&L≥3 and K&L=4). At the joint level, similarities in the frequency and pattern of erosive and non-erosive osteoarthritis were assessed by Spearman's rank correlation coefficients and generalised estimating equations. At the person level, individuals with erosive osteoarthritis were compared to those with non-erosive osteoarthritis using logistic regression, adjusted for age and gender (aOR), for the following exposures: family history, previous injury, overuse and metabolic factors (BMI, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, diabetes). Results In 1076 symptomatic participants the ranked frequency of involvement for erosive joints was comparable to joints with K&L≥3 and K&L=4 (r>0.95). Patterns of joint involvement in erosive osteoarthritis were strongest for symmetry (aOR=6.5; 95% CI 3.0 to 14.1), followed by row (2.0; 0.8 to 5.0) and ray (0.3; 0.0 to 2.5), which was similar to joints with K&L≥3 and K&L=4. Individuals with erosive osteoarthritis (n=80) had an increased risk of metabolic syndrome (2.7; 1.0 to 7.1), notably dyslipidaemia (4.7; 2.1 to 10.6) compared with non-erosive osteoarthritis classed K&L≥3 (n=193). Conclusions The similar frequency of radiographic joint involvement and patterning in erosive osteoarthritis and more severe non-erosive osteoarthritis is consistent with prevalent erosive osteoarthritis being a severe form of hand osteoarthritis rather than a distinct entity. Metabolic exposures, dyslipidaemia in particular, may be implicated in erosive osteoarthritis. PMID:24095935

Robust THP Transceiver Designs for Multiuser MIMO Downlink with Imperfect CSIT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ubaidulla, P.; Chockalingam, A.

2009-12-01

We present robust joint nonlinear transceiver designs for multiuser multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) downlink in the presence of imperfections in the channel state information at the transmitter (CSIT). The base station (BS) is equipped with multiple transmit antennas, and each user terminal is equipped with one or more receive antennas. The BS employs Tomlinson-Harashima precoding (THP) for interuser interference precancellation at the transmitter. We consider robust transceiver designs that jointly optimize the transmit THP filters and receive filter for two models of CSIT errors. The first model is a stochastic error (SE) model, where the CSIT error is Gaussian-distributed. This model is applicable when the CSIT error is dominated by channel estimation error. In this case, the proposed robust transceiver design seeks to minimize a stochastic function of the sum mean square error (SMSE) under a constraint on the total BS transmit power. We propose an iterative algorithm to solve this problem. The other model we consider is a norm-bounded error (NBE) model, where the CSIT error can be specified by an uncertainty set. This model is applicable when the CSIT error is dominated by quantization errors. In this case, we consider a worst-case design. For this model, we consider robust (i) minimum SMSE, (ii) MSE-constrained, and (iii) MSE-balancing transceiver designs. We propose iterative algorithms to solve these problems, wherein each iteration involves a pair of semidefinite programs (SDPs). Further, we consider an extension of the proposed algorithm to the case with per-antenna power constraints. We evaluate the robustness of the proposed algorithms to imperfections in CSIT through simulation, and show that the proposed robust designs outperform nonrobust designs as well as robust linear transceiver designs reported in the recent literature.

Infant Joint Attention, Neural Networks and Social Cognition

PubMed Central

Mundy, Peter; Jarrold, William

2010-01-01

Neural network models of attention can provide a unifying approach to the study of human cognitive and emotional development (Posner & Rothbart, 2007). This paper we argue that a neural networks approach to the infant development of joint attention can inform our understanding of the nature of human social learning, symbolic thought process and social cognition. At its most basic, joint attention involves the capacity to coordinate one’s own visual attention with that of another person. We propose that joint attention development involves increments in the capacity to engage in simultaneous or parallel processing of information about one’s own attention and the attention of other people. Infant practice with joint attention is both a consequence and organizer of the development of a distributed and integrated brain network involving frontal and parietal cortical systems. This executive distributed network first serves to regulate the capacity of infants to respond to and direct the overt behavior of other people in order to share experience with others through the social coordination of visual attention. In this paper we describe this parallel and distributed neural network model of joint attention development and discuss two hypotheses that stem from this model. One is that activation of this distributed network during coordinated attention enhances to depth of information processing and encoding beginning in the first year of life. We also propose that with development joint attention becomes internalized as the capacity to socially coordinate mental attention to internal representations. As this occurs the executive joint attention network makes vital contributions to the development of human symbolic thinking and social cognition. PMID:20884172

The future role of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) products in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Camussi, G; Lupia, E

1998-05-01

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha) is a pleiotropic cytokine which is overproduced in rheumatoid joints primarily by macrophages. This cytokine has a potential pathogenic role in the establishment of rheumatoid synovitis, in the formation of pannus tissue and in the process of joint destruction, as it increases synoviocyte proliferation and triggers a cascade of secondary mediators involved in the recruitment of inflammatory cells, in neo-angiogenesis and in the process of joint destruction. These findings made TNF alpha a potential target for anticytokine therapy. Experimental studies have shown that TNF alpha blockade by monoclonal antibodies or by soluble TNF receptor reduced the extent and severity of arthritis both in collagen-induced arthritis in mice and in transgenic mice overexpressing TNF alpha, which develop a rheumatoid-like destructive arthritis. Clinical studies based on the use of anti-TNF alpha antibodies or soluble receptors have suggested a potential beneficial effect of TNF alpha-blocking therapy in inducing amelioration of inflammatory parameters in patients with long-standing active disease. In these patients anti-TNF alpha therapy induces a rapid improvement in multiple clinical assessment of disease activity, including morning stiffness, pain score, Ritchie articular index and swollen joint count. The clinical benefits are associated with an improvement in some serological parameters, such as C-reactive protein and serum amyloid-A, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, blood cytokine levels, haemoglobin, white cells and platelet counts, rheumatoid factor titre and histological features of the synovium. However, it remains to be determined whether anti-TNF alpha therapy may be useful in the long term management of rheumatoid patients and in the achievement of better outcomes of disease. Because TNF alpha production also serves a specific function in host defence against infections and tumours, the adverse effects of long term anti-TNF alpha therapy must be carefully evaluated. In addition, targeting a single mediator may be not sufficient to block the complex inflammatory response in rheumatoid arthritis. For these reasons therapeutic strategies aimed at concomitantly interfering with multiple pathogenic pathways are currently under investigation.

Mirror neuron system as the joint from action to language.

PubMed

Chen, Wei; Yuan, Ti-Fei

2008-08-01

Mirror neuron system (MNS) represents one of the most important discoveries of cognitive neuroscience in the past decade, and it has been found to involve in multiple aspects of brain functions including action understanding, imitation, language understanding, empathy, action prediction and speech evolution. This manuscript reviewed the function of MNS in action understanding as well as language evolution, and specifically assessed its roles as the bridge from body language to fluent speeches. Then we discussed the speech defects of autism patients due to the disruption of MNS. Finally, given that MNS is plastic in adult brain, we proposed MNS targeted therapy provides an efficient rehabilitation approach for brain damages conditions as well as autism patients.

A Grammatical Approach to RNA-RNA Interaction Prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kato, Yuki; Akutsu, Tatsuya; Seki, Hiroyuki

2007-11-01

Much attention has been paid to two interacting RNA molecules involved in post-transcriptional control of gene expression. Although there have been a few studies on RNA-RNA interaction prediction based on dynamic programming algorithm, no grammar-based approach has been proposed. The purpose of this paper is to provide a new modeling for RNA-RNA interaction based on multiple context-free grammar (MCFG). We present a polynomial time parsing algorithm for finding the most likely derivation tree for the stochastic version of MCFG, which is applicable to RNA joint secondary structure prediction including kissing hairpin loops. Also, elementary tests on RNA-RNA interaction prediction have shown that the proposed method is comparable to Alkan et al.'s method.

Interphalangeal joint involvement of the big toe in gout: a rare presentation.

PubMed

Dobson, Michael; Alwahab, Yasir; Fazal, Muhammad A

2012-01-01

Atypical presentation of gout can cause diagnostic dilemmas. We report a case of gout that presented with an expansile lytic lesion involving the interphalangeal joint of the hallux, lack of a history of gout, and an associated solitary lung nodule. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an expansile destructive bony lesion with soft-tissue involvement suggestive of a possible bony metastasis. A needle biopsy was performed, and histopathologic features were diagnostic of chronic tophaceous gout.

Multilevel joint competing risk models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karunarathna, G. H. S.; Sooriyarachchi, M. R.

2017-09-01

Joint modeling approaches are often encountered for different outcomes of competing risk time to event and count in many biomedical and epidemiology studies in the presence of cluster effect. Hospital length of stay (LOS) has been the widely used outcome measure in hospital utilization due to the benchmark measurement for measuring multiple terminations such as discharge, transferred, dead and patients who have not completed the event of interest at the follow up period (censored) during hospitalizations. Competing risk models provide a method of addressing such multiple destinations since classical time to event models yield biased results when there are multiple events. In this study, the concept of joint modeling has been applied to the dengue epidemiology in Sri Lanka, 2006-2008 to assess the relationship between different outcomes of LOS and platelet count of dengue patients with the district cluster effect. Two key approaches have been applied to build up the joint scenario. In the first approach, modeling each competing risk separately using the binary logistic model, treating all other events as censored under the multilevel discrete time to event model, while the platelet counts are assumed to follow a lognormal regression model. The second approach is based on the endogeneity effect in the multilevel competing risks and count model. Model parameters were estimated using maximum likelihood based on the Laplace approximation. Moreover, the study reveals that joint modeling approach yield more precise results compared to fitting two separate univariate models, in terms of AIC (Akaike Information Criterion).

Effect of Multiple Reflow Cycles and Al2O3 Nanoparticles Reinforcement on Performance of SAC305 Lead-Free Solder Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tikale, Sanjay; Prabhu, K. Narayan

2018-05-01

The effect of Al2O3 nanoparticles reinforcement on melting behavior, microstructure evolution at the interface and joint shear strength of 96.5Sn3Ag0.5Cu (SAC305) lead-free solder alloy subjected to multiple reflow cycles was investigated. The reinforced SAC305 solder alloy compositions were prepared by adding Al2O3 nanoparticles in different weight fractions (0.05, 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 wt.%) through mechanical dispersion. Cu/solder/Cu micro-lap-shear solder joint specimens were used to assess the shear strength of the solder joint. Differential scanning calorimetry was used to investigate the melting behavior of SAC305 solder nanocomposites. The solder joint interfacial microstructure was studied using scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the increase in melting temperature (T L) and melting temperature range of the SAC305 solder alloy by addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles were not significant. In comparison with unreinforced SAC305 solder alloy, the reinforcement of 0.05-0.5 wt.% of Al2O3 nanoparticles improved the solder wettability. The addition of nanoparticles in minor quantity effectively suppressed the Cu6Sn5 IMC growth, improved the solder joint shear strength and ductility under multiple reflow cycles. However, the improvement in solder properties was less pronounced on increasing the nanoparticle content above 0.1 wt.% of the solder alloy.

Evaluation of patient characteristics as predictors of health status in knee osteoarthritis patients referred for physical therapy.

PubMed

Gonçalves, Rui Soles; Cabri, Jan; Pinheiro, J P

2011-01-01

The purpose of this cross sectional study was to estimate the contributions of patient characteristics to variation in joint-specific and generic health status in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients referred for physical therapy. The Portuguese Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and Medical Outcomes Study - 36 item Short Form (SF-36) questionnaires, and a form for the patient characteristics (gender, age, body mass index, profession, professional situation, educational level, marital status, duration of knee OA, involved knee and walking aids) were self-administered to 377 subjects with symptomatic knee OA (282 females, 95 males; age: 67.8 ± 8.2 years). Multiple stepwise regression analyses revealed that patient characteristics explained only 9.4% to 19.7% of the variance in KOOS subscales scores, and only 1.0% to 17.2% of the variance in SF-36 subscales scores. Therefore, it can be concluded that the patient characteristics studied were limited predictors of joint-specific and generic health status in knee OA patients referred for physical therapy.

Pigmented villonodular synovitis of the knee joint in a 5-year-old girl treated with combined open and arthroscopic surgery: a case report.

PubMed

Jha, Subash Chandra; Nishisho, Toshihiko; Matsuura, Tetsuya; Takeuchi, Makoto; Miyagi, Ryo; Takao, Shoichiro; Suzue, Naoto; Toki, Shunichi; Nagamachi, Akihiro; Sairyo, Koichi

2016-11-01

Pigmented villonodular synovitis is an extremely rare disease in skeletally immature patients. Erosive destruction of the involved joint leads to early arthritis, and its high recurrence rate makes treatment challenging. Multiple surgical approaches exist, but it is unclear as to which among them achieves the lowest possible recurrence rate and morbidity. We report the case of a 5-year-old girl with left knee pain and swelling who was diagnosed with diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis of the left knee based on MRI findings. Combined open and arthroscopic surgery was performed to completely remove the tumor. Postoperative histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse pigmented villonodular synovitis. The postoperative course was uneventful, with a gradual improvement in symptoms. There were no signs of recurrence on postoperative MRI performed at the 8-month follow-up, with neither knee pain nor limitation of range of motion. The favorable outcome in this case suggests that combined open and arthroscopic surgery may be an effective method for treating pigmented villonodular synovitis in skeletally immature patients.

Retrograde nail for tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis as a limb salvage procedure for open distal tibia and talus fractures with severe bone loss.

PubMed

Ochman, Sabine; Evers, Julia; Raschke, Michael J; Vordemvenne, Thomas

2012-01-01

The treatment of complex fractures of the distal tibia, ankle, and talus with soft tissue damage, bone loss, and nonreconstructable joints for which the optimal timing for reduction and fixation has been missed is challenging. In such cases primary arthrodesis might be a treatment option. We report a series of multi-injured patients with severe soft tissue damage and bone loss, who were treated with a retrograde tibiotalocalcaneal arthrodesis nail as a minimally invasive treatment option for limb salvage. After a median follow-up of 5.4 years, all patients returned to their former profession. The ankle and bone fusion was complete, with moderate functional results and quality of life. Calcaneotibial arthrodesis using a retrograde nail is a good treatment option for nonreconstructable fractures of the ankle joint with severe bone loss and poor soft tissue quality in selected patients with multiple injuries, in particular, those involving both lower extremities, as a salvage procedure. Copyright © 2012 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of Plasma Surface Finish on Wettability and Mechanical Properties of SAC305 Solder Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Kyoung-Ho; Koike, Junichi; Yoon, Jeong-Won; Yoo, Sehoon

2016-12-01

The wetting behavior, interfacial reactions, and mechanical reliability of Sn-Ag-Cu solder on a plasma-coated printed circuit board (PCB) substrate were evaluated under multiple heat-treatments. Conventional organic solderability preservative (OSP) finished PCBs were used as a reference. The plasma process created a dense and highly cross-linked polymer coating on the Cu substrates. The plasma finished samples had higher wetting forces and shorter zero-cross times than those with OSP surface finish. The OSP sample was degraded after sequential multiple heat treatments and reflow processes, whereas the solderability of the plasma finished sample was retained after multiple heat treatments. After the soldering process, similar microstructures were observed at the interfaces of the two solder joints, where the development of intermetallic compounds was observed. From ball shear tests, it was found that the shear force for the plasma substrate was consistently higher than that for the OSP substrate. Deterioration of the OSP surface finish was observed after multiple heat treatments. Overall, the plasma surface finish was superior to the conventional OSP finish with respect to wettability and joint reliability, indicating that it is a suitable material for the fabrication of complex electronic devices.

A Model for a Single Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program Office Managing Joint ISR Capabilities

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

reduction in manning from the multiple program office structure to the new single program management model. Additional information regarding this...OFFICE MANAGING JOINT ISR CAPABILITIES by Angela E. Burris A Research Report Submitted to the Faculty In Partial Fulfillment of...research paper is to answer how a single management office could provide greater agility for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS); supporting Joint concepts

Historical and future drought in Bangladesh using copula-based bivariate regional frequency analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mortuza, Md Rubayet; Moges, Edom; Demissie, Yonas; Li, Hong-Yi

2018-02-01

The study aims at regional and probabilistic evaluation of bivariate drought characteristics to assess both the past and future drought duration and severity in Bangladesh. The procedures involve applying (1) standardized precipitation index to identify drought duration and severity, (2) regional frequency analysis to determine the appropriate marginal distributions for both duration and severity, (3) copula model to estimate the joint probability distribution of drought duration and severity, and (4) precipitation projections from multiple climate models to assess future drought trends. Since drought duration and severity in Bangladesh are often strongly correlated and do not follow same marginal distributions, the joint and conditional return periods of droughts are characterized using the copula-based joint distribution. The country is divided into three homogeneous regions using Fuzzy clustering and multivariate discordancy and homogeneity measures. For given severity and duration values, the joint return periods for a drought to exceed both values are on average 45% larger, while to exceed either value are 40% less than the return periods from the univariate frequency analysis, which treats drought duration and severity independently. These suggest that compared to the bivariate drought frequency analysis, the standard univariate frequency analysis under/overestimate the frequency and severity of droughts depending on how their duration and severity are related. Overall, more frequent and severe droughts are observed in the west side of the country. Future drought trend based on four climate models and two scenarios showed the possibility of less frequent drought in the future (2020-2100) than in the past (1961-2010).

Helical Axis Data Visualization and Analysis of the Knee Joint Articulation.

PubMed

Millán Vaquero, Ricardo Manuel; Vais, Alexander; Dean Lynch, Sean; Rzepecki, Jan; Friese, Karl-Ingo; Hurschler, Christof; Wolter, Franz-Erich

2016-09-01

We present processing methods and visualization techniques for accurately characterizing and interpreting kinematical data of flexion-extension motion of the knee joint based on helical axes. We make use of the Lie group of rigid body motions and particularly its Lie algebra for a natural representation of motion sequences. This allows to analyze and compute the finite helical axis (FHA) and instantaneous helical axis (IHA) in a unified way without redundant degrees of freedom or singularities. A polynomial fitting based on Legendre polynomials within the Lie algebra is applied to provide a smooth description of a given discrete knee motion sequence which is essential for obtaining stable instantaneous helical axes for further analysis. Moreover, this allows for an efficient overall similarity comparison across several motion sequences in order to differentiate among several cases. Our approach combines a specifically designed patient-specific three-dimensional visualization basing on the processed helical axes information and incorporating computed tomography (CT) scans for an intuitive interpretation of the axes and their geometrical relation with respect to the knee joint anatomy. In addition, in the context of the study of diseases affecting the musculoskeletal articulation, we propose to integrate the above tools into a multiscale framework for exploring related data sets distributed across multiple spatial scales. We demonstrate the utility of our methods, exemplarily processing a collection of motion sequences acquired from experimental data involving several surgery techniques. Our approach enables an accurate analysis, visualization and comparison of knee joint articulation, contributing to the evaluation and diagnosis in medical applications.

On the damping effect due to bolted junctions in space structures subjected to pyro-shock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Benedetti, M.; Garofalo, G.; Zumpano, M.; Barboni, R.

2007-06-01

The damping due to bolted or riveted joints in the dynamics of assembled structures subjected to pyro-shock has been studied. A relevant effect in this phenomenon is the micro-slip between the jointed surfaces. In order to verify the feasibility and the reliability of the numerical analyses performed on structures with junctions, the numerical results obtained by the finite elements method have been compared with those obtained experimentally. Several numerical analyses, in which friction forces have been represented as nonlinear loads, have been carried out for the FE models of two application cases: an electronic unit mounted within the Radarsat-2 satellite, and the complete Cosmo-Skymed spacecraft. Considering the load type, involving a typical high frequency response spectrum between 100 and 10 000 Hz, both numerical and experimental data have been reduced to the shock response spectrum form. After the comparative evaluation, taking into account also the damping effect, the agreement between numerical results and experimental data has been evaluated. The proposed numerical approach yields an effective and less expensive instrument, able to provide indications in the design phase, to allow the prevision of the dynamic behaviour of the structure for the prevention of failures in units or systems mounted within the spacecraft or launch vehicle. With the proposed model, it is possible to determine in a simple and direct way the characteristics of the damping due to the single bolted and riveted joints, and use them in similar multiple joints in the complete structure assembling or substructuring.

Joint involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus: From pathogenesis to clinical assessment.

PubMed

Ceccarelli, Fulvia; Perricone, Carlo; Cipriano, Enrica; Massaro, Laura; Natalucci, Francesco; Capalbo, Giuseppe; Leccese, Ilaria; Bogdanos, Dimitrios; Spinelli, Francesca Romana; Alessandri, Cristiano; Valesini, Guido; Conti, Fabrizio

2017-08-01

In the present review, the different phenotypes, clinimetric and imaging tools able to assess joint involvement in patients affected by Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) have been described and summarized. Furthermore, the current knowledge about the pathogenic mechanism and the potential biomarkers of this feature is reported. A literature search was done in PubMed, accessed via the National Library of Medicine PubMed interface (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed). Firstly, PubMed was searched using the term "systemic lupus erythematosus" OR "lupus" in combination with (AND) "joint" OR "articular".Secondly, the same PubMed research was combined with other terms, such as "pathogenesis" OR "genetic" OR "antibodies" OR "biomarkers" OR "cytokines" OR "imaging" OR "ultrasonography" OR "magnetic resonance" OR "clinimetry". After a stringent selection, we evaluated in the present review 13 papers concerning clinical phenotypes of SLE joint involvement, 14 concerning clinimetric assessment, 20 concerning imaging, and finally, 28 concerning pathogenesis and biomarkers. Further relevant data were obtained from the reference lists of articles returned using these search terms and from authors own experience and knowledge of the literature. Despite the prevalence and severity of SLE joint involvement, more awareness and a deeper evaluation of the clinical heterogeneity of this manifestation are mandatory. Moreover, longitudinal studies are needed to assess the progression of this manifestation and to provide standard definitions and examination/recording protocols. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Simplified Design Method for Tension Fasteners

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olmstead, Jim; Barker, Paul; Vandersluis, Jonathan

2012-07-01

Tension fastened joints design has traditionally been an iterative tradeoff between separation and strength requirements. This paper presents equations for the maximum external load that a fastened joint can support and the optimal preload to achieve this load. The equations, based on linear joint theory, account for separation and strength safety factors and variations in joint geometry, materials, preload, load-plane factor and thermal loading. The strength-normalized versions of the equations are applicable to any fastener and can be plotted to create a "Fastener Design Space", FDS. Any combination of preload and tension that falls within the FDS represents a safe joint design. The equation for the FDS apex represents the optimal preload and load capacity of a set of joints. The method can be used for preliminary design or to evaluate multiple pre-existing joints.

A Bayesian joint probability modeling approach for seasonal forecasting of streamflows at multiple sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Q. J.; Robertson, D. E.; Chiew, F. H. S.

2009-05-01

Seasonal forecasting of streamflows can be highly valuable for water resources management. In this paper, a Bayesian joint probability (BJP) modeling approach for seasonal forecasting of streamflows at multiple sites is presented. A Box-Cox transformed multivariate normal distribution is proposed to model the joint distribution of future streamflows and their predictors such as antecedent streamflows and El Niño-Southern Oscillation indices and other climate indicators. Bayesian inference of model parameters and uncertainties is implemented using Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling, leading to joint probabilistic forecasts of streamflows at multiple sites. The model provides a parametric structure for quantifying relationships between variables, including intersite correlations. The Box-Cox transformed multivariate normal distribution has considerable flexibility for modeling a wide range of predictors and predictands. The Bayesian inference formulated allows the use of data that contain nonconcurrent and missing records. The model flexibility and data-handling ability means that the BJP modeling approach is potentially of wide practical application. The paper also presents a number of statistical measures and graphical methods for verification of probabilistic forecasts of continuous variables. Results for streamflows at three river gauges in the Murrumbidgee River catchment in southeast Australia show that the BJP modeling approach has good forecast quality and that the fitted model is consistent with observed data.

Simultaneous Calibration: A Joint Optimization Approach for Multiple Kinect and External Cameras.

PubMed

Liao, Yajie; Sun, Ying; Li, Gongfa; Kong, Jianyi; Jiang, Guozhang; Jiang, Du; Cai, Haibin; Ju, Zhaojie; Yu, Hui; Liu, Honghai

2017-06-24

Camera calibration is a crucial problem in many applications, such as 3D reconstruction, structure from motion, object tracking and face alignment. Numerous methods have been proposed to solve the above problem with good performance in the last few decades. However, few methods are targeted at joint calibration of multi-sensors (more than four devices), which normally is a practical issue in the real-time systems. In this paper, we propose a novel method and a corresponding workflow framework to simultaneously calibrate relative poses of a Kinect and three external cameras. By optimizing the final cost function and adding corresponding weights to the external cameras in different locations, an effective joint calibration of multiple devices is constructed. Furthermore, the method is tested in a practical platform, and experiment results show that the proposed joint calibration method can achieve a satisfactory performance in a project real-time system and its accuracy is higher than the manufacturer's calibration.

Simultaneous Calibration: A Joint Optimization Approach for Multiple Kinect and External Cameras

PubMed Central

Liao, Yajie; Sun, Ying; Li, Gongfa; Kong, Jianyi; Jiang, Guozhang; Jiang, Du; Cai, Haibin; Ju, Zhaojie; Yu, Hui; Liu, Honghai

2017-01-01

Camera calibration is a crucial problem in many applications, such as 3D reconstruction, structure from motion, object tracking and face alignment. Numerous methods have been proposed to solve the above problem with good performance in the last few decades. However, few methods are targeted at joint calibration of multi-sensors (more than four devices), which normally is a practical issue in the real-time systems. In this paper, we propose a novel method and a corresponding workflow framework to simultaneously calibrate relative poses of a Kinect and three external cameras. By optimizing the final cost function and adding corresponding weights to the external cameras in different locations, an effective joint calibration of multiple devices is constructed. Furthermore, the method is tested in a practical platform, and experiment results show that the proposed joint calibration method can achieve a satisfactory performance in a project real-time system and its accuracy is higher than the manufacturer’s calibration. PMID:28672823

Motion control of the rabbit ankle joint with a flat interface nerve electrode.

PubMed

Park, Hyun-Joo; Durand, Dominique M

2015-12-01

A flat interface nerve electrode (FINE) has been shown to improve fascicular and subfascicular selectivity. A recently developed novel control algorithm for FINE was applied to motion control of the rabbit ankle. A 14-contact FINE was placed on the rabbit sciatic nerve (n = 8), and ankle joint motion was controlled for sinusoidal trajectories and filtered random trajectories. To this end, a real-time controller was implemented with a multiple-channel current stimulus isolator. The performance test results showed good tracking performance of rabbit ankle joint motion for filtered random trajectories and sinusoidal trajectories (0.5 Hz and 1.0 Hz) with <10% average root-mean-square (RMS) tracking error, whereas the average range of ankle joint motion was between -20.0 ± 9.3° and 18.1 ± 8.8°. The proposed control algorithm enables the use of a multiple-contact nerve electrode for motion trajectory tracking control of musculoskeletal systems. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimization of laser butt welding parameters with multiple performance characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sathiya, P.; Abdul Jaleel, M. Y.; Katherasan, D.; Shanmugarajan, B.

2011-04-01

This paper presents a study carried out on 3.5 kW cooled slab laser welding of 904 L super austenitic stainless steel. The joints have butts welded with different shielding gases, namely argon, helium and nitrogen, at a constant flow rate. Super austenitic stainless steel (SASS) normally contains high amount of Mo, Cr, Ni, N and Mn. The mechanical properties are controlled to obtain good welded joints. The quality of the joint is evaluated by studying the features of weld bead geometry, such as bead width (BW) and depth of penetration (DOP). In this paper, the tensile strength and bead profiles (BW and DOP) of laser welded butt joints made of AISI 904 L SASS are investigated. The Taguchi approach is used as a statistical design of experiment (DOE) technique for optimizing the selected welding parameters. Grey relational analysis and the desirability approach are applied to optimize the input parameters by considering multiple output variables simultaneously. Confirmation experiments have also been conducted for both of the analyses to validate the optimized parameters.

Competition-interaction landscapes for the joint response of forests to climate change.

PubMed

Clark, James S; Bell, David M; Kwit, Matthew C; Zhu, Kai

2014-06-01

The recent global increase in forest mortality episodes could not have been predicted from current vegetation models that are calibrated to regional climate data. Physiological studies show that mortality results from interactions between climate and competition at the individual scale. Models of forest response to climate do not include interactions because they are hard to estimate and require long-term observations on individual trees obtained at frequent (annual) intervals. Interactions involve multiple tree responses that can only be quantified if these responses are estimated as a joint distribution. A new approach provides estimates of climate–competition interactions in two critical ways, (i) among individuals, as a joint distribution of responses to combinations of inputs, such as resources and climate, and (ii) within individuals, due to allocation requirements that control outputs, such as demographic rates. Application to 20 years of data from climate and competition gradients shows that interactions control forest responses, and their omission from models leads to inaccurate predictions. Species most vulnerable to increasing aridity are not those that show the largest growth response to precipitation, but rather depend on interactions with the local resource environment. This first assessment of regional species vulnerability that is based on the scale at which climate operates, individual trees competing for carbon and water, supports predictions of potential savannification in the southeastern US.

The Value of Phenotypes in Knee Osteoarthritis Research.

PubMed

Nelson, Fred R T

2018-01-01

Over the past decade, phenotypes have been used to help categorize knee osteoarthritis patients relative to being subject to disease, disease progression, and treatment response. A review of potential phenotype selection is now appropriate. The appeal of using phenotypes is that they most rely on simple physical examination, clinically routine imaging, and demographics. The purpose of this review is to describe the panoply of phenotypes that can be potentially used in osteoarthritis research. A search of PubMed was used singularly to review the literature on knee osteoarthritis phenotypes. Four phenotype assembly groups were based on physical features and noninvasive imaging. Demographics included metabolic syndrome (dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, and diabetes). Mechanical characteristics included joint morphology, alignment, the effect of injury, and past and present history. Associated musculoskeletal disorder characteristics included multiple joint involvement, spine disorders, neuromuscular diseases, and osteoporosis. With the knee as an organ, tissue characteristics were used to focus on synovium, meniscus, articular cartilage, patella fat pad, bone sclerosis, bone cysts, and location of pain. Many of these phenotype clusters require further validation studies. There is special emphasis on knee osteoarthritis phenotypes due to its predominance in osteoarthritic disorders and the variety of tissues in that joint. More research will be required to determine the most productive phenotypes for future studies. The selection and assignment of phenotypes will take on an increasing role in osteoarthritis research in the future.

Multidigit movement synergies of the human hand in an unconstrained haptic exploration task.

PubMed

Thakur, Pramodsingh H; Bastian, Amy J; Hsiao, Steven S

2008-02-06

Although the human hand has a complex structure with many individual degrees of freedom, joint movements are correlated. Studies involving simple tasks (grasping) or skilled tasks (typing or finger spelling) have shown that a small number of combined joint motions (i.e., synergies) can account for most of the variance in observed hand postures. However, those paradigms evoked a limited set of hand postures and as such the reported correlation patterns of joint motions may be task-specific. Here, we used an unconstrained haptic exploration task to evoke a set of hand postures that is representative of most naturalistic postures during object manipulation. Principal component analysis on this set revealed that the first seven principal components capture >90% of the observed variance in hand postures. Further, we identified nine eigenvectors (or synergies) that are remarkably similar across multiple subjects and across manipulations of different sets of objects within a subject. We then determined that these synergies are used broadly by showing that they account for the changes in hand postures during other tasks. These include hand motions such as reach and grasp of objects that vary in width, curvature and angle, and skilled motions such as precision pinch. Our results demonstrate that the synergies reported here generalize across tasks, and suggest that they represent basic building blocks underlying natural human hand motions.

Maintaining the Dialogue: Joint Involvement in a Stand-Alone CD-Rom Chinese Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Orton, Jane

2003-01-01

Presents a stand-alone CD-Rom version of a Web-based course in Modern Standard Chinese and addresses the problem of losing opportunities for negotiation in joint involvement episodes with teachers and peers in the CD-ROM course. Demonstrates trials of a mode of self-assessment in tasks using annotated sample texts generated by other students. (VWL)

Design of a knee joint mechanism that adapts to individual physiology.

PubMed

Jiun-Yih Kuan; Pasch, Kenneth A; Herr, Hugh M

2014-01-01

This paper describes the design of a new knee joint mechanism, called the Adaptive Coupling Joint (ACJ). The new mechanism has an adaptive trajectory of the center of rotations (COR) that automatically matches those of the attached biological joint. The detailed design is presented as well as characterization results of the ACJ. Conventional exoskeleton and assistive devices usually consider limb joints as a one to three degrees of freedom (DOFs) joint synthesized by multiple one-DOF hinge joints in a single plane. However, the biological joints are complex and usually rotate with respect to a changing COR. As a result, the mismatch between limb joint motion and mechanical interface motion can lead to forces that cause undesired ligament and muscle length changes and internal mechanical changes. These undesired changes contribute to discomfort, as well as to the slippage and sluggish interaction between humans and devices. It is shown that the ACJ can transmit planetary torques from either active or passive devices to the limbs without altering the normal biological joint motion.

JRmGRN: Joint reconstruction of multiple gene regulatory networks with common hub genes using data from multiple tissues or conditions.

PubMed

Deng, Wenping; Zhang, Kui; Liu, Sanzhen; Zhao, Patrick; Xu, Shizhong; Wei, Hairong

2018-04-30

Joint reconstruction of multiple gene regulatory networks (GRNs) using gene expression data from multiple tissues/conditions is very important for understanding common and tissue/condition-specific regulation. However, there are currently no computational models and methods available for directly constructing such multiple GRNs that not only share some common hub genes but also possess tissue/condition-specific regulatory edges. In this paper, we proposed a new graphic Gaussian model for joint reconstruction of multiple gene regulatory networks (JRmGRN), which highlighted hub genes, using gene expression data from several tissues/conditions. Under the framework of Gaussian graphical model, JRmGRN method constructs the GRNs through maximizing a penalized log likelihood function. We formulated it as a convex optimization problem, and then solved it with an alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) algorithm. The performance of JRmGRN was first evaluated with synthetic data and the results showed that JRmGRN outperformed several other methods for reconstruction of GRNs. We also applied our method to real Arabidopsis thaliana RNA-seq data from two light regime conditions in comparison with other methods, and both common hub genes and some conditions-specific hub genes were identified with higher accuracy and precision. JRmGRN is available as a R program from: https://github.com/wenpingd. hairong@mtu.edu. Proof of theorem, derivation of algorithm and supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.

[A primary application and evaluation of temporomandibular joint replacement with stock prosthesis].

PubMed

Zhang, Xiao-hu; Chen, Min-jie; Qiu, Ya-ting; Yang, Chi

2012-06-01

To evaluate the effect of total joint replacement in treatment of temporomandibular joint(TMJ) osteoarthropathy with stock prostheses. Six female patients involving 10 joints (2 unilateral and 4 bilateral), with an average age of 59 years old, were involved in this study. Three patients (5 joints) were diagnosed as internal derangement in V stage depending on MRI, 3D-CT findings and clinical characteristics. The other 3 patients (5 joints) had histories of failed temporomandibular joint operation using costochondral graft or temporalis fascial flap. The maximal mouth opening was 1.9 cm on average (range, 1.0 to 2.9cm). All the joints were replaced with Biomet standard prosthesis under general anesthesia. The follow-up period was from 7 to 49 months (average, 17.5 months). All the operations were successfully performed. Heterotopic ossification happened in a bilateral case 1 year postoperatively. One patient with bilateral joint disease complained of severe uncomfortable feeling in the region of the ears and the temples, although there was no significant positive signs according to an ENT examination. Pain relief of the joint and mouth opening improvement were significant in 4 patients. No failure was noted secondary to infection or loosening of the prostheses. The occlusal relationship kept stable postoperatively in all cases. Total TMJ joint replacement with standard prosthesis is a good choice for TMJ reconstruction. It can significantly reduce joint pain and the mouth opening limitation resulted from osteoarthritis. Long-term result remains to be evaluated based on a long-term follow-up.

Infant joint attention, neural networks and social cognition.

PubMed

Mundy, Peter; Jarrold, William

2010-01-01

Neural network models of attention can provide a unifying approach to the study of human cognitive and emotional development (Posner & Rothbart, 2007). In this paper we argue that a neural network approach to the infant development of joint attention can inform our understanding of the nature of human social learning, symbolic thought process and social cognition. At its most basic, joint attention involves the capacity to coordinate one's own visual attention with that of another person. We propose that joint attention development involves increments in the capacity to engage in simultaneous or parallel processing of information about one's own attention and the attention of other people. Infant practice with joint attention is both a consequence and an organizer of the development of a distributed and integrated brain network involving frontal and parietal cortical systems. This executive distributed network first serves to regulate the capacity of infants to respond to and direct the overt behavior of other people in order to share experience with others through the social coordination of visual attention. In this paper we describe this parallel and distributed neural network model of joint attention development and discuss two hypotheses that stem from this model. One is that activation of this distributed network during coordinated attention enhances the depth of information processing and encoding beginning in the first year of life. We also propose that with development, joint attention becomes internalized as the capacity to socially coordinate mental attention to internal representations. As this occurs the executive joint attention network makes vital contributions to the development of human symbolic thinking and social cognition. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

MULTIPLE NONSPECIFIC SITES OF JOINT PAIN OUTSIDE THE KNEES DEVELOP IN PERSONS WITH KNEE PAIN

PubMed Central

Felson, David T.; Niu, Jingbo; Quinn, Emily K; Neogi, Tuhina; Lewis, Cara; Lewis, Cora E.; Law, Laura Frey; McCulloch, Chuck; Nevitt, Michael; LaValley, Michael

2017-01-01

Objective Many persons with knee pain have joint pain outside the knee but despite the impact and high frequency of this pain, its distribution and causes have not been studied. Those studying gait abnormalities have suggested that knee pain causes pain in adjacent joints but pain adaptation strategies are highly individualized. Methods We studied persons age 50-79 years with or at high risk of knee osteoarthritis drawn from two community-based cohorts, the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study and the Osteoarthritis Initiative and followed for 5-7 years. We excluded those with knee pain at baseline and compared those who developed and did not develop knee pain at the first follow-up examination (the index visit). We examined pain on most days at joint regions outside the knee in examinations after the index visit. Logistic regression analyses examined the risk of joint specific pain adjusted for age, sex, BMI, depression with sensitivity analyses excluding those with widespread pain. Results In the combined cohorts, there were 693 persons with index visit knee pain vs. 2793 without it. 79.6% of those with bilateral and 63.8% of those with unilateral knee pain had pain during follow-up in a joint region outside the knee vs. 49.9% of those without knee pain. An increased risk of pain was present in most extremity joint sites without a predilection for specific sites. Results were unchanged when those with widespread pain were excluded. Conclusions Persons with chronic knee pain are at increased risk of pain in multiple joints in no specific pattern. PMID:27589036

Identification of Nonlinear Micron-Level Mechanics for a Precision Deployable Joint

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bullock, S. J.; Peterson, L. D.

1994-01-01

The experimental identification of micron-level nonlinear joint mechanics and dynamics for a pin-clevis joint used in a precision, adaptive, deployable space structure are investigated. The force-state mapping method is used to identify the behavior of the joint under a preload. The results of applying a single tension-compression cycle to the joint under a tensile preload are presented. The observed micron-level behavior is highly nonlinear and involves all six rigid body motion degrees-of-freedom of the joint. it is also suggests that at micron levels of motion modelling of the joint mechanics and dynamics must include the interactions between all internal components, such as the pin, bushings, and the joint node.

Analyzing multicomponent receptive fields from neural responses to natural stimuli

PubMed Central

Rowekamp, Ryan; Sharpee, Tatyana O

2011-01-01

The challenge of building increasingly better models of neural responses to natural stimuli is to accurately estimate the multiple stimulus features that may jointly affect the neural spike probability. The selectivity for combinations of features is thought to be crucial for achieving classical properties of neural responses such as contrast invariance. The joint search for these multiple stimulus features is difficult because estimating spike probability as a multidimensional function of stimulus projections onto candidate relevant dimensions is subject to the curse of dimensionality. An attractive alternative is to search for relevant dimensions sequentially, as in projection pursuit regression. Here we demonstrate using analytic arguments and simulations of model cells that different types of sequential search strategies exhibit systematic biases when used with natural stimuli. Simulations show that joint optimization is feasible for up to three dimensions with current algorithms. When applied to the responses of V1 neurons to natural scenes, models based on three jointly optimized dimensions had better predictive power in a majority of cases compared to dimensions optimized sequentially, with different sequential methods yielding comparable results. Thus, although the curse of dimensionality remains, at least several relevant dimensions can be estimated by joint information maximization. PMID:21780916

Ipsilateral Closed Clavicle and Scapular spine Fracture with Acromioclavicular Joint Disruption.

PubMed

Kembhavi, Raghavendra S; James, Boblee

2015-01-01

Injuries around shoulder and clavicle are quite common. Injuries involving lateral end of clavicle involving acromioclavicular joints are commoner injuries. In this rare injury, we report about a case involving clavicle and scapular spine fracture with acromioclavicular disruption which has never been described in English literature as per our knowledge. A patient with closed clavicle and scapular spine fracture with acromioclavicular joint disruption was treated with open reduction and internal fixation of clavicle and scapular spine as a staged procedures. Six months post operatively, patient had excellent functional recovery with near full range of movements. Though rare complex injury, clavicle fracture with scapular spine fracture with acromioclavicular disruption, when managed properly with good physiotherapy protocol post operatively will result in good clinical and functional outcome.

Percutaneous CT-Guided Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Sacroiliac Joint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Becce, Fabio, E-mail: fabio.becce@chuv.ch; Mouhsine, Elyazid; Mosimann, Pascal John

2012-08-15

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a joint disorder that affects the articular cartilage and subchondral bone, most commonly at the knee. OCD of the sacroiliac joint is extremely rare. Management of OCD remains controversial, and surgery is often needed, especially when conservative treatment fails. We present a rare case of OCD involving the left sacroiliac joint successfully treated by percutaneous computed tomography-guided retrograde drilling and debridement.

CLINICAL AND TREATMENT FEATURES OF OPEN INFECTED FRACTURES IN THE KNEE JOINT REGION IN CONJUNCTION WITH RADIATION SICKNESS (EXPERIMENTAL STUDY)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sakharov, B.V.

1963-08-01

Clinical aspects and the course of treatment of open infected fractures in the knee joint region against a background of moderate and severe radiation sickness are discussed. The experiment involved 35 healthy dogs of both sexes. In all, three experiments were involved: on open infected fractures in the knee joint region in conjunction with radiation sickness; open infected fractures in the knee joint region without radiation sickness; radiation sickness without trauma. Infected open injury to the knee joint against a radiation sickness background is a severe affection. The use of delayed surgical and drug treatment (antibiotics, vitamins, antihistamine preparations) affordedmore » survival of at least one-half of the animals. Oral use of phenoxymethyl-penicillin in large doses established in the blood and synovial fluid of the damaged knee joint a therapeutic concentration of antibiotic of long duration (not less than a day). In radiation damage to knee joint accompanied by fracture of the bone fragment, the best method of surgical treatment is osteosynthesis using metal parts. In open infection of a damaged knee joint against a radiation sickness background, even with proper treatment a tendency toward formation of deforming arthrosis was observed. (OTS)« less

FLARE (Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiments): A Major Next-Step for Laboratory Studies of Magnetic Reconnection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, H.; Bhattacharjee, A.; Prager, S.; Daughton, W. S.; Bale, S. D.; Carter, T. A.; Crocker, N.; Drake, J. F.; Egedal, J.; Sarff, J.; Wallace, J.; Belova, E.; Ellis, R.; Fox, W. R., II; Heitzenroeder, P.; Kalish, M.; Jara-Almonte, J.; Myers, C. E.; Que, W.; Ren, Y.; Titus, P.; Yamada, M.; Yoo, J.

2014-12-01

A new intermediate-scale plasma experiment, called the Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiments or FLARE, is under construction at Princeton as a joint project by five universities and two national labs to study magnetic reconnection in regimes directly relevant to space, solar and astrophysical plasmas. The currently existing small-scale experiments have been focusing on the single X-line reconnection process in plasmas either with small effective sizes or at low Lundquist numbers, both of which are typically very large in natural plasmas. These new regimes involve multiple X-lines as guided by a reconnection "phase diagram", in which different coupling mechanisms from the global system scale to the local dissipation scale are classified into different reconnection phases [H. Ji & W. Daughton, Phys. Plasmas 18, 111207 (2011)]. The design of the FLARE device is based on the existing Magnetic Reconnection Experiment (MRX) at Princeton (http://mrx.pppl.gov) and is to provide experimental access to the new phases involving multiple X-lines at large effective sizes and high Lundquist numbers, directly relevant to space and solar plasmas. The motivating major physics questions, the construction status, and the planned collaborative research especially with space and solar research communities will be discussed.

FLARE (Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiments): A Major Next-Step for Laboratory Studies of Magnetic Reconnection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ji, Hantao; Bhattacharjee, A.; Prager, S.; Daughton, W.; Bale, Stuart D.; Carter, T.; Crocker, N.; Drake, J.; Egedal, J.; Sarff, J.; Fox, W.; Jara-Almonte, J.; Myers, C.; Ren, Y.; Yamada, M.; Yoo, J.

2015-04-01

A new intermediate-scale plasma experiment, called the Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiments or FLARE (flare.pppl.gov), is under construction at Princeton as a joint project by five universities and two national labs to study magnetic reconnection in regimes directly relevant to heliophysical and astrophysical plasmas. The currently existing small-scale experiments have been focusing on the single X-line reconnection process in plasmas either with small effective sizes or at low Lundquist numbers, both of which are typically very large in natural plasmas. These new regimes involve multiple X-lines as guided by a reconnection "phase diagram", in which different coupling mechanisms from the global system scale to the local dissipation scale are classified into different reconnection phases [H. Ji & W. Daughton, Phys. Plasmas 18, 111207 (2011)]. The design of the FLARE device is based on the existing Magnetic Reconnection Experiment (MRX) (mrx.pppl.gov) and is to provide experimental access to the new phases involving multiple X-lines at large effective sizes and high Lundquist numbers, directly relevant to magnetospheric, solar wind, and solar coronal plasmas. After a brief summary of recent laboratory results on the topic of magnetic reconnection, the motivating major physics questions, the construction status, and the planned collaborative research especially with heliophysics communities will be discussed.

Keep meaning in conversational coordination

PubMed Central

Cuffari, Elena C.

2014-01-01

Coordination is a widely employed term across recent quantitative and qualitative approaches to intersubjectivity, particularly approaches that give embodiment and enaction central explanatory roles. With a focus on linguistic and bodily coordination in conversational contexts, I review the operational meaning of coordination in recent empirical research and related theorizing of embodied intersubjectivity. This discussion articulates what must be involved in treating linguistic meaning as dynamic processes of coordination. The coordination approach presents languaging as a set of dynamic self-organizing processes and actions on multiple timescales and across multiple modalities that come about and work in certain domains (those jointly constructed in social, interactive, high-order sense-making). These processes go beyond meaning at the level that is available to first-person experience. I take one crucial consequence of this to be the ubiquitously moral nature of languaging with others. Languaging coordinates experience, among other levels of behavior and event. Ethical effort is called for by the automatic autonomy-influencing forces of languaging as coordination. PMID:25520693

Joint inversion of multiple geophysical and petrophysical data using generalized fuzzy clustering algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Jiajia; Li, Yaoguo

2017-02-01

Joint inversion that simultaneously inverts multiple geophysical data sets to recover a common Earth model is increasingly being applied to exploration problems. Petrophysical data can serve as an effective constraint to link different physical property models in such inversions. There are two challenges, among others, associated with the petrophysical approach to joint inversion. One is related to the multimodality of petrophysical data because there often exist more than one relationship between different physical properties in a region of study. The other challenge arises from the fact that petrophysical relationships have different characteristics and can exhibit point, linear, quadratic, or exponential forms in a crossplot. The fuzzy c-means (FCM) clustering technique is effective in tackling the first challenge and has been applied successfully. We focus on the second challenge in this paper and develop a joint inversion method based on variations of the FCM clustering technique. To account for the specific shapes of petrophysical relationships, we introduce several different fuzzy clustering algorithms that are capable of handling different shapes of petrophysical relationships. We present two synthetic and one field data examples and demonstrate that, by choosing appropriate distance measures for the clustering component in the joint inversion algorithm, the proposed joint inversion method provides an effective means of handling common petrophysical situations we encounter in practice. The jointly inverted models have both enhanced structural similarity and increased petrophysical correlation, and better represent the subsurface in the spatial domain and the parameter domain of physical properties.

Whole-body patterns of the range of joint motion in young adults: masculine type and feminine type.

PubMed

Moromizato, Keiichi; Kimura, Ryosuke; Fukase, Hitoshi; Yamaguchi, Kyoko; Ishida, Hajime

2016-10-01

Understanding the whole-body patterns of joint flexibility and their related biological and physical factors contributes not only to clinical assessments but also to the fields of human factors and ergonomics. In this study, ranges of motion (ROMs) at limb and trunk joints of young adults were analysed to understand covariation patterns of different joint motions and to identify factors associated with the variation in ROM. Seventy-eight healthy volunteers (42 males and 36 females) living on Okinawa Island, Japan, were recruited. Passive ROM was measured at multiple joints through the whole body (31 measurements) including the left and right side limbs and trunk. Comparisons between males and females, dominant and non-dominant sides, and antagonistic motions indicated that body structures influence ROMs. In principal component analysis (PCA) on the ROM data, the first principal component (PC1) represented the sex difference and a similar covariation pattern appeared in the analysis within each sex. Multiple regression analysis showed that this component was associated with sex, age, body fat %, iliospinale height, and leg extension strength. The present study identified that there is a spectrum of "masculine" and "feminine" types in the whole-body patterns of joint flexibility. This study also suggested that body proportion and composition, muscle mass and strength, and possibly skeletal structures partly explain such patterns. These results would be important to understand individual variation in susceptibility to joint injuries and diseases and in one's suitable and effective postures and motions.

Reduced complexity of multi-track joint 2-D Viterbi detectors for bit-patterned media recording channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Myint, L. M. M.; Warisarn, C.

2017-05-01

Two-dimensional (2-D) interference is one of the prominent challenges in ultra-high density recording system such as bit patterned media recording (BPMR). The multi-track joint 2-D detection technique with the help of the array-head reading can tackle this problem effectively by jointly processing the multiple readback signals from the adjacent tracks. Moreover, it can robustly alleviate the impairments due to track mis-registration (TMR) and media noise. However, the computational complexity of such detectors is normally too high and hard to implement in a reality, even for a few multiple tracks. Therefore, in this paper, we mainly focus on reducing the complexity of multi-track joint 2-D Viterbi detector without paying a large penalty in terms of the performance. We propose a simplified multi-track joint 2-D Viterbi detector with a manageable complexity level for the BPMR's multi-track multi-head (MTMH) system. In the proposed method, the complexity of detector's trellis is reduced with the help of the joint-track equalization method which employs 1-D equalizers and 2-D generalized partial response (GPR) target. Moreover, we also examine the performance of a full-fledged multi-track joint 2-D detector and the conventional 2-D detection. The results show that the simplified detector can perform close to the full-fledge detector, especially when the system faces high media noise, with the significant low complexity.

Factors associated with sustained remission in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Martire, María Victoria; Marino Claverie, Lucila; Duarte, Vanesa; Secco, Anastasia; Mammani, Marta

2015-01-01

To find out the factors that are associated with sustained remission measured by DAS28 and boolean ACR EULAR 2011 criteria at the time of diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Medical records of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in sustained remission according to DAS28 were reviewed. They were compared with patients who did not achieved values of DAS28<2.6 in any visit during the first 3 years after diagnosis. We also evaluated if patients achieved the boolean ACR/EULAR criteria. Variables analyzed: sex, age, smoking, comorbidities, rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, ESR, CRP, erosions, HAQ, DAS28, extra-articular manifestations, time to initiation of treatment, involvement of large joints, number of tender joints, number of swollen joints, pharmacological treatment. Forty five patients that achieved sustained remission were compared with 44 controls. The variables present at diagnosis that significantly were associated with remission by DAS28 were: lower values of DAS28, HAQ, ESR, NTJ, NSJ, negative CRP, absence of erosions, male sex and absence of involvement of large joints. Only 24.71% achieved the boolean criteria. The variables associated with sustained remission by these criteria were: lower values of DAS28, HAQ, ESR, number of tender joints and number of swollen joints, negative CRP and absence of erosions. The factors associated with sustained remission were the lower baseline disease activity, the low degree of functional disability and lower joint involvement. We consider it important to recognize these factors to optimize treatment. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Joint surface modeling with thin-plate splines.

PubMed

Boyd, S K; Ronsky, J L; Lichti, D D; Salkauskas, K; Chapman, M A; Salkauskas, D

1999-10-01

Mathematical joint surface models based on experimentally determined data points can be used to investigate joint characteristics such as curvature, congruency, cartilage thickness, joint contact areas, as well as to provide geometric information well suited for finite element analysis. Commonly, surface modeling methods are based on B-splines, which involve tensor products. These methods have had success; however, they are limited due to the complex organizational aspect of working with surface patches, and modeling unordered, scattered experimental data points. An alternative method for mathematical joint surface modeling is presented based on the thin-plate spline (TPS). It has the advantage that it does not involve surface patches, and can model scattered data points without experimental data preparation. An analytical surface was developed and modeled with the TPS to quantify its interpolating and smoothing characteristics. Some limitations of the TPS include discontinuity of curvature at exactly the experimental surface data points, and numerical problems dealing with data sets in excess of 2000 points. However, suggestions for overcoming these limitations are presented. Testing the TPS with real experimental data, the patellofemoral joint of a cat was measured with multistation digital photogrammetry and modeled using the TPS to determine cartilage thicknesses and surface curvature. The cartilage thickness distribution ranged between 100 to 550 microns on the patella, and 100 to 300 microns on the femur. It was found that the TPS was an effective tool for modeling joint surfaces because no preparation of the experimental data points was necessary, and the resulting unique function representing the entire surface does not involve surface patches. A detailed algorithm is presented for implementation of the TPS.

Smartphone versus knee ligament arthrometer when size does not matter.

PubMed

Ferretti, Andrea; Andrea, Ferretti; Valeo, Luigi; Luigi, Valeo; Mazza, Daniele; Daniele, Mazza; Muliere, Luca; Luca, Muliere; Iorio, Paolo; Paolo, Iorio; Giovannetti, Giovanni; Giovanni, Giovannetti; Conteduca, Fabio; Fabio, Conteduca; Iorio, Raffaele; Raffaele, Iorio

2014-10-01

The use of available mechanical methods to measure anterior tibial translation (ATT) in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-deficient knees are limited by size and costs. This study evaluated the performance of a portable device based on a downloadable electronic smartphone application to measure ATT in ACL-deficient knees. A specific smartphone application (SmartJoint) was developed for this purpose. Two independent observers nonsequentially measured the amount of ATT during execution of a maximum manual Lachman test in 35 patients with an ACL-deficient knee using KT 1000 and SmartJoint on both involved and uninvolved knees. As each examiner performed the test three times on each knee, a total of 840 measurements were collected. Statistical analysis compared intertest, interobserver and intra-observer reliability using the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). An ICC > 0.75 indicates excellent reproducibility among measurements. Mean amount of ATT on uninvolved knees was 6.1 mm [standard deviation (SD = 2)] with the KT 1000 and 6.4 mm (SD = 2) with SmartJoint. Mean side-to-side difference was 8.1 mm. (SD = 4) with KT 1000 and 8.3 mm (SD = 3) with SmartJoint. Intertest reliability between the two methods yielded an ICC 0.797 [95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.717-0.857] for the uninvolved knee and of 0.987 (CI 0.981-0.991) for the involved knee. Interobserver ICC for SmartJoint and KT 1000 was 0.957 (CI 0.927-0.976) for the uninvolved knee and 0.992 (CI 0.986-0.996) for the involved knee and 0.973 (CI 0.954-0.985) for the uninvolved knee and 0.989 (CI 0.981-0.994) for involved knee, respectively. The performance of SmartJoint is comparable and highly correlated with measurements obtained from KT 1000. SmartJoint may provide a truly portable, noninvasive, accurate, reliable, inexpensive and widely accessible method to characterize ATT in ACL-deficient knee.

Bone marrow derived stem cells in joint and bone diseases: a concise review.

PubMed

Marmotti, Antonio; de Girolamo, Laura; Bonasia, Davide Edoardo; Bruzzone, Matteo; Mattia, Silvia; Rossi, Roberto; Montaruli, Angela; Dettoni, Federico; Castoldi, Filippo; Peretti, Giuseppe

2014-09-01

Stem cells have huge applications in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Their use is currently not restricted to the life-threatening diseases but also extended to disorders involving the structural tissues, which may not jeopardize the patients' life, but certainly influence their quality of life. In fact, a particularly popular line of research is represented by the regeneration of bone and cartilage tissues to treat various orthopaedic disorders. Most of these pioneering research lines that aim to create new treatments for diseases that currently have limited therapies are still in the bench of the researchers. However, in recent years, several clinical trials have been started with satisfactory and encouraging results. This article aims to review the concept of stem cells and their characterization in terms of site of residence, differentiation potential and therapeutic prospective. In fact, while only the bone marrow was initially considered as a "reservoir" of this cell population, later, adipose tissue and muscle tissue have provided a considerable amount of cells available for multiple differentiation. In reality, recently, the so-called "stem cell niche" was identified as the perivascular space, recognizing these cells as almost ubiquitous. In the field of bone and joint diseases, their potential to differentiate into multiple cell lines makes their application ideally immediate through three main modalities: (1) cells selected by withdrawal from bone marrow, subsequent culture in the laboratory, and ultimately transplant at the site of injury; (2) bone marrow aspirate, concentrated and directly implanted into the injury site; (3) systemic mobilization of stem cells and other bone marrow precursors by the use of growth factors. The use of this cell population in joint and bone disease will be addressed and discussed, analysing both the clinical outcomes but also the basic research background, which has justified their use for the treatment of bone, cartilage and meniscus tissues.

Functional joint regeneration is achieved using reintegration mechanism in Xenopus laevis

PubMed Central

Yamada, Shigehito

2016-01-01

Abstract A functional joint requires integration of multiple tissues: the apposing skeletal elements should form an interlocking structure, and muscles should insert into skeletal tissues via tendons across the joint. Whereas newts can regenerate functional joints after amputation, Xenopus laevis regenerates a cartilaginous rod without joints, a “spike.” Previously we reported that the reintegration mechanism between the remaining and regenerated tissues has a significant effect on regenerating joint morphogenesis during elbow joint regeneration in newt. Based on this insight into the importance of reintegration, we amputated frogs’ limbs at the elbow joint and found that frogs could regenerate a functional elbow joint between the remaining tissues and regenerated spike. During regeneration, the regenerating cartilage was partially connected to the remaining articular cartilage to reform the interlocking structure of the elbow joint at the proximal end of the spike. Furthermore, the muscles of the remaining part inserted into the regenerated spike cartilage via tendons. This study might open up an avenue for analyzing molecular and cellular mechanisms of joint regeneration using Xenopus. PMID:27499877

Adaptations in single-leg hop biomechanics following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Orishimo, Karl F; Kremenic, Ian J; Mullaney, Michael J; McHugh, Malachy P; Nicholas, Stephen J

2010-11-01

When a patient performs a clinically normal hop test based on distance, it cannot be assumed that the biomechanics are similar between limbs. The objective was to compare takeoff and landing biomechanics between legs in patients who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. Kinematics and ground reaction forces were recorded as 13 patients performed the single-leg hop on each leg. Distance hopped, joint range of motion, peak joint kinetics and the peak total extensor moment were compared between legs during both takeoff and landing. Average hop distance ratio (involved/noninvolved) was 93 ± 4%. Compared to the noninvolved side, knee motion during takeoff on the involved side was significantly reduced (P = 0.008). Peak moments and powers on the involved side were lower at the knee and higher at the ankle and hip compared with the noninvolved side (Side by Joint P = 0.011; P = 0.003, respectively). The peak total extensor moment was not different between legs (P = 0.305) despite a decrease in knee moment and increases in ankle and hip moments (Side by Joint P = 0.015). During landing, knee motion was reduced (P = 0.043), and peak power absorbed was decreased at the knee and hip and increased at the ankle on the involved side compared to the noninvolved side (P = 0.003). The compensations by other joints may indicate protective adaptations to avoid overloading the reconstructed knee.

Surgery in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Ankylosing Spondylitis

PubMed Central

Law, W. Alexander

1948-01-01

The pain, deformities and disabilities resulting from rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis must be treated by a team composed of physician, physical medicine expert, orthopædic surgeon, and, in certain cases, deep X-ray therapist working simultaneously. The principle of “rest” in order to relieve pain has to be combined with methods designed to preserve and restore function. The multiple joint deformities in these cases may necessitate a long programme of reconstructive or functional treatment, which entails whole-hearted co-operation on the part of the patient in intensive post-operative exercise regime. Procedures advocated for the upper limb include excision of the acromion process together with the subacromial bursa to allow free movement between the central tendon of the deltoid and the tendinous shoulder cuff: arthrodesis of the shoulder in cases where there is more severe joint destruction: in certain cases of elbow-joint arthritis, excision of the radial head and sub-total synovectomy may preserve joint function and avoid or delay the necessity for arthroplasty which can be carried out in two ways: (a) similar to the formal joint excision, or (b) re-shaping the lower end of the humerus and upper end of the ulna lining these surfaces with fascia. The former method is preferable in cases of rheumatoid arthritis. To overcome wrist-joint deformity and restore pronation and supination excision of the lower end of the ulna together with radiocarpal fusion in position for optimum function is advocated. Finger and toe joints may be corrected by resection of the bone ends and capsulectomy. In the lower limbs bilateral involvement of the hip-joint is best treated by vitallium mould arthroplasty which may be carried out in four ways: (1) Routine arthroplasty; (2) Modified Whitman procedure; (3) Modified Colonna operation; and (4) The proximal shaft or intertrochanteric arthroplasty. It is essential in these operations to have knowledge of the operative technique, the use of special hip gouges and reamers, and detailed post-operative supervision. For dorsal kyphosis of the spine, spinal osteotomy at the lumbar level provides excellent correction but is an operation demanding care and skill in its execution. The author's remarks are based on experience gained when working with Dr. M. N. Smith-Petersen at the Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, U.S.A. PMID:18914877

Joint Base Contracting: A Comparative Analysis of Joint Base Contracting Activities between Services

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-01

INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK 1 I. INTRODUCTION A. OVERVIEW The idea of consolidating functions is not new in the corporate world, nor is it new in...combining the experience and skill of multiple organizations to improve corporate knowledge. The automobile industry has several examples of joint...objective process, no more than half of the Commission’s professional staff members could have worked for the DoD during the same year that they were a

Combined Dynamic Time Warping with Multiple Sensors for 3D Gesture Recognition

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Cyber-physical systems, which closely integrate physical systems and humans, can be applied to a wider range of applications through user movement analysis. In three-dimensional (3D) gesture recognition, multiple sensors are required to recognize various natural gestures. Several studies have been undertaken in the field of gesture recognition; however, gesture recognition was conducted based on data captured from various independent sensors, which rendered the capture and combination of real-time data complicated. In this study, a 3D gesture recognition method using combined information obtained from multiple sensors is proposed. The proposed method can robustly perform gesture recognition regardless of a user’s location and movement directions by providing viewpoint-weighted values and/or motion-weighted values. In the proposed method, the viewpoint-weighted dynamic time warping with multiple sensors has enhanced performance by preventing joint measurement errors and noise due to sensor measurement tolerance, which has resulted in the enhancement of recognition performance by comparing multiple joint sequences effectively. PMID:28817094

Combined Dynamic Time Warping with Multiple Sensors for 3D Gesture Recognition.

PubMed

Choi, Hyo-Rim; Kim, TaeYong

2017-08-17

Cyber-physical systems, which closely integrate physical systems and humans, can be applied to a wider range of applications through user movement analysis. In three-dimensional (3D) gesture recognition, multiple sensors are required to recognize various natural gestures. Several studies have been undertaken in the field of gesture recognition; however, gesture recognition was conducted based on data captured from various independent sensors, which rendered the capture and combination of real-time data complicated. In this study, a 3D gesture recognition method using combined information obtained from multiple sensors is proposed. The proposed method can robustly perform gesture recognition regardless of a user's location and movement directions by providing viewpoint-weighted values and/or motion-weighted values. In the proposed method, the viewpoint-weighted dynamic time warping with multiple sensors has enhanced performance by preventing joint measurement errors and noise due to sensor measurement tolerance, which has resulted in the enhancement of recognition performance by comparing multiple joint sequences effectively.

Analysis of Genome-Wide Association Studies with Multiple Outcomes Using Penalization

PubMed Central

Liu, Jin; Huang, Jian; Ma, Shuangge

2012-01-01

Genome-wide association studies have been extensively conducted, searching for markers for biologically meaningful outcomes and phenotypes. Penalization methods have been adopted in the analysis of the joint effects of a large number of SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) and marker identification. This study is partly motivated by the analysis of heterogeneous stock mice dataset, in which multiple correlated phenotypes and a large number of SNPs are available. Existing penalization methods designed to analyze a single response variable cannot accommodate the correlation among multiple response variables. With multiple response variables sharing the same set of markers, joint modeling is first employed to accommodate the correlation. The group Lasso approach is adopted to select markers associated with all the outcome variables. An efficient computational algorithm is developed. Simulation study and analysis of the heterogeneous stock mice dataset show that the proposed method can outperform existing penalization methods. PMID:23272092

Optimal Resource Allocation for NOMA-TDMA Scheme with α-Fairness in Industrial Internet of Things.

PubMed

Sun, Yanjing; Guo, Yiyu; Li, Song; Wu, Dapeng; Wang, Bin

2018-05-15

In this paper, a joint non-orthogonal multiple access and time division multiple access (NOMA-TDMA) scheme is proposed in Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), which allowed multiple sensors to transmit in the same time-frequency resource block using NOMA. The user scheduling, time slot allocation, and power control are jointly optimized in order to maximize the system α -fair utility under transmit power constraint and minimum rate constraint. The optimization problem is nonconvex because of the fractional objective function and the nonconvex constraints. To deal with the original problem, we firstly convert the objective function in the optimization problem into a difference of two convex functions (D.C.) form, and then propose a NOMA-TDMA-DC algorithm to exploit the global optimum. Numerical results show that the NOMA-TDMA scheme significantly outperforms the traditional orthogonal multiple access scheme in terms of both spectral efficiency and user fairness.

An optimal control strategy for hybrid actuator systems: Application to an artificial muscle with electric motor assist.

PubMed

Ishihara, Koji; Morimoto, Jun

2018-03-01

Humans use multiple muscles to generate such joint movements as an elbow motion. With multiple lightweight and compliant actuators, joint movements can also be efficiently generated. Similarly, robots can use multiple actuators to efficiently generate a one degree of freedom movement. For this movement, the desired joint torque must be properly distributed to each actuator. One approach to cope with this torque distribution problem is an optimal control method. However, solving the optimal control problem at each control time step has not been deemed a practical approach due to its large computational burden. In this paper, we propose a computationally efficient method to derive an optimal control strategy for a hybrid actuation system composed of multiple actuators, where each actuator has different dynamical properties. We investigated a singularly perturbed system of the hybrid actuator model that subdivided the original large-scale control problem into smaller subproblems so that the optimal control outputs for each actuator can be derived at each control time step and applied our proposed method to our pneumatic-electric hybrid actuator system. Our method derived a torque distribution strategy for the hybrid actuator by dealing with the difficulty of solving real-time optimal control problems. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Rheumatoid arthritis (image)

MedlinePlus

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks itself. The pattern of joints ... other joints and is worse in the morning. Rheumatoid arthritis is also a systemic disease, involving other body ...

VLT/I Instrumentation: Lessons Learned FORUM

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monnet, G.; Bacon, R.

2003-09-01

This paper is the result of a joint effort by ESO and its Scientific and Technical Committee (STC) to extract the main lessons from last April's 'VLT/VLTI Instrumentation: Lessons learned' Forum and start applying them, in particular in the framework of the development of second generation VLT -and soon VLTI- instruments. This is but one step in a continuing effort to optimize these complex and challenging developments which involve a significant fraction of Europe's astronomical instrument builders in the near-UV to mid-IR range. With a major effort in the European radio community to build multiple receiver systems for ALMA now being pursued at an accelerated pace, it was also vital to revisit very quickly our whole procurement strategy in this area.

Talar Fractures in Children: A Possible Injury After Go-Karting Accidents.

PubMed

Kamphuis, Saskia J M; Meijs, Claartje M E M; Kleinveld, Sanne; Diekerhof, Carel H; van der Heijden, Frank H W M

2015-01-01

Go-karting is an increasingly popular high-energy sport enjoyed by both children and adults. Because of the speeds involved, accidents involving go-karts can lead to serious injury. We describe 6 talar fractures in 4 patients that resulted from go-karting accidents. Talar fractures can cause severe damage to the tibiotalar joint, talocalcaneal or subtalar joint, and the talonavicular joint. This damage can, in turn, lead to complications such as avascular necrosis, arthritis, nonunion, delayed union, and neuropraxia, which have the potential to cause long-term disability in a child. Copyright © 2015 American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Sample size determination for equivalence assessment with multiple endpoints.

PubMed

Sun, Anna; Dong, Xiaoyu; Tsong, Yi

2014-01-01

Equivalence assessment between a reference and test treatment is often conducted by two one-sided tests (TOST). The corresponding power function and sample size determination can be derived from a joint distribution of the sample mean and sample variance. When an equivalence trial is designed with multiple endpoints, it often involves several sets of two one-sided tests. A naive approach for sample size determination in this case would select the largest sample size required for each endpoint. However, such a method ignores the correlation among endpoints. With the objective to reject all endpoints and when the endpoints are uncorrelated, the power function is the production of all power functions for individual endpoints. With correlated endpoints, the sample size and power should be adjusted for such a correlation. In this article, we propose the exact power function for the equivalence test with multiple endpoints adjusted for correlation under both crossover and parallel designs. We further discuss the differences in sample size for the naive method without and with correlation adjusted methods and illustrate with an in vivo bioequivalence crossover study with area under the curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) as the two endpoints.

[The temporomandibular joint in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: what radiologists need to look for on magnetic resonance imaging].

PubMed

De La Hoz Polo, M; Navallas, M

2014-01-01

The term "juvenile idiopathic arthritis" (JIA) encompasses a group of arthritis of unknown cause with onset before the age of 16 years that last for at least 6 weeks. The prevalence of temporomandibular joint involvement in published series ranges from 17% to 87%. Temporomandibular joint involvement is difficult to detect clinically, so imaging plays a key role in diagnosis and monitoring treatment. MRI is the technique of choice for the study of arthritis of the temporomandibular joint because it is the most sensitive technique for detecting acute synovitis and bone edema. Power Doppler ultrasonography can also detect active synovitis by showing the hypervascularization of the inflamed synovial membrane, but it cannot identify bone edema. This article describes the MRI technique for evaluating the temporomandibular joint in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, defines the parameters to look for, and illustrates the main findings. Copyright © 2013 SERAM. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Chinese herbs as immunomodulators and potential disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in autoimmune disorders.

PubMed

Ho, Ling-Jun; Lai, Jenn-Haung

2004-04-01

Autoimmune diseases are a group of illnesses with multiple organ involvement. The prototype of this group of disorders is rheumatoid arthritis (RA) that aside from systemic organ involvement mainly presents with progressive destruction of many joints. Both activation and defective apoptosis of immune effector cells like T and B lymphocytes and macrophages play critical roles in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. Current therapy for autoimmune diseases recommends a combination of several disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) that preserve different immunomodulatory mechanisms. Because of limited success in prevention of RA joint destruction for currently available DMARDs, the development of more effective and less toxic DMARDs has been one of the major goals for pharmaceutical companies. The introduction of leflunomide and anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha therapies to the market recently serves as examples. In this context, the experience from ancient Chinese medicine gives an alternative consideration looking for potential DMARDs. Two commonly prescribed Chinese antirheumatic herbs are Tripterygium wilfordii hook f (TWHf) and tetrandrine (Tet) that preserve both anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. Importantly, the TWHf- or Tet-mediated immunomodulatory mechanisms are evidently different from the known DMARDs. The synergistic effects have also been demonstrated between these two Chinese antirheumatic herbs and DMARDs like FK506, cyclosporin and possibly chloroquine. Another potential Chinese herb for this consideration is Ginkgo biloba. This review summarizes evidence-based in vivo and in vitro studies on Chinese herbs as immunomodulators and potential DMARDs.

Religious factors associated with alcohol involvement: results from the Mauritian Joint Child Health Project.

PubMed

Luczak, Susan E; Prescott, Carol A; Dalais, Cyril; Raine, Adrian; Venables, Peter H; Mednick, Sarnoff A

2014-02-01

The purpose of this study was to examine religious factors associated with alcohol involvement in Mauritius. The three main religions on the island, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Islam, promote different views of the appropriate use of alcohol. Based on reference group theory, we hypothesized that both the content of a religion's alcohol norms and an individual's religious commitment would relate to alcohol use behavior. Participants were from the Joint Child Health Project, a longitudinal study that has followed a birth cohort of 1.795 individuals since 1972 when they were 3 years old. All available participants (67%; 55% male) were assessed in mid-adulthood on religious variables, lifetime drinking, and lifetime alcohol use disorders. Across religions, individuals who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence were less likely to be drinkers. Religious commitment was associated with reduced probability of drinking only in those who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence. Among drinkers, abstention norms and religious commitment were not associated with lower likelihood of alcohol use disorders. In Catholics who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence and still were drinkers, high religious commitment was associated with increased risk for alcohol use disorders. Predictions based on reference group theory were largely supported, with religious norms and commitment differentially related to alcohol use and problems both across religions and among individuals within religions. Findings highlight the importance of examining multiple aspects of religion to better understand the relationship of religion with alcohol behaviors. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Religious Factors Associated with Alcohol Involvement: Results from the Mauritian Joint Child Health Project

PubMed Central

Luczak, Susan E.; Prescott, Carol A.; Dalais, Cyril; Raine, Adrian; Venables, Peter H.; Mednick, Sarnoff A.

2014-01-01

Background The purpose of this study was to examine religious factors associated with alcohol involvement in Mauritius. The three main religions on the island, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Islam, promote different views of the appropriate use of alcohol. Based on reference group theory, we hypothesized that both the content of a religion’s alcohol norms and an individual’s religious commitment would relate to alcohol use behavior. Methods Participants were from the Joint Child Health Project, a longitudinal study that has followed a birth cohort of 1,795 individuals since 1972 when they were 3 years old. All available participants (67%; 55% male) were assessed in mid-adulthood on religious variables, lifetime drinking, and lifetime alcohol use disorders. Results Across religions, individuals who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence were less likely to be drinkers. Religious commitment was associated with reduced probability of drinking only in those who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence. Among drinkers, abstention norms and religious commitment were not associated with lower likelihood of alcohol use disorders. In Catholics who viewed their religion as promoting abstinence and still were drinkers, high religious commitment was associated with increased risk for alcohol use disorders. Conclusions Predictions based on reference group theory were largely supported, with religious norms and commitment differentially related to alcohol use and problems both across religions and among individuals within religions. Findings highlight the importance of examining multiple aspects of religion to better understand the relationship of religion with alcohol behaviors. PMID:24332801

Multiple Intelligences, Educational Reform, and a Successful Career

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wu, Wu-Tien

2004-01-01

This article addresses the meaning and application of multiple intelligences theory in Taiwan in the light of educational reform. Specifically, a 4-year joint research project (1999-2003) titled The Development of Multiple Talents (DMT), sponsored by the National Science Council, R.O.C. (Taiwan), will be introduced. A 3-dimensional construct is…

The Unified Classification System (UCS): improving our understanding of periprosthetic fractures.

PubMed

Duncan, C P; Haddad, F S

2014-06-01

Periprosthetic fractures are an increasingly common complication following joint replacement. The principles which underpin their evaluation and treatment are common across the musculoskeletal system. The Unified Classification System proposes a rational approach to treatment, regardless of the bone that is broken or the joint involved. ©2014 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Reexamining Joint Chiefs of Staff Involvement in the Bay of Pigs

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-21

judged the guerilla plan to be unsound and had recommended improvements. Short of further assurances, the JCS had no way to confirm that the CIA had...Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited Reexamining Joint Chiefs of Staff Involvement in the Bay of Pigs A Monograph by LTC...average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data

From intricate to integrated: Biofabrication of articulating joints.

PubMed

Groen, Wilhelmina Margaretha; Diloksumpan, Paweena; van Weeren, Paul René; Levato, Riccardo; Malda, Jos

2017-10-01

Articulating joints owe their function to the specialized architecture and the complex interplay between multiple tissues including cartilage, bone and synovium. Especially the cartilage component has limited self-healing capacity and damage often leads to the onset of osteoarthritis, eventually resulting in failure of the joint as an organ. Although in its infancy, biofabrication has emerged as a promising technology to reproduce the intricate organization of the joint, thus enabling the introduction of novel surgical treatments, regenerative therapies, and new sets of tools to enhance our understanding of joint physiology and pathology. Herein, we address the current challenges to recapitulate the complexity of articulating joints and how biofabrication could overcome them. The combination of multiple materials, biological cues and cells in a layer-by-layer fashion, can assist in reproducing both the zonal organization of cartilage and the gradual transition from resilient cartilage toward the subchondral bone in biofabricated osteochondral grafts. In this way, optimal integration of engineered constructs with the natural surrounding tissues can be obtained. Mechanical characteristics, including the smoothness and low friction that are hallmarks of the articular surface, can be tuned with multi-head or hybrid printers by controlling the spatial patterning of printed structures. Moreover, biofabrication can use digital medical images as blueprints for printing patient-specific implants. Finally, the current rapid advances in biofabrication hold significant potential for developing joint-on-a-chip models for personalized medicine and drug testing or even for the creation of implants that may be used to treat larger parts of the articulating joint. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 35:2089-2097, 2017. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Multiple linear regression approach for the analysis of the relationships between joints mobility and regional pressure-based parameters in the normal-arched foot.

PubMed

Caravaggi, Paolo; Leardini, Alberto; Giacomozzi, Claudia

2016-10-03

Plantar load can be considered as a measure of the foot ability to transmit forces at the foot/ground, or foot/footwear interface during ambulatory activities via the lower limb kinematic chain. While morphological and functional measures have been shown to be correlated with plantar load, no exhaustive data are currently available on the possible relationships between range of motion of foot joints and plantar load regional parameters. Joints' kinematics from a validated multi-segmental foot model were recorded together with plantar pressure parameters in 21 normal-arched healthy subjects during three barefoot walking trials. Plantar pressure maps were divided into six anatomically-based regions of interest associated to corresponding foot segments. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the relationships between pressure-based parameters, joints range of motion and normalized walking speed (speed/subject height). Sagittal- and frontal-plane joint motion were those most correlated to plantar load. Foot joints' range of motion and normalized walking speed explained between 6% and 43% of the model variance (adjusted R 2 ) for pressure-based parameters. In general, those joints' presenting lower mobility during stance were associated to lower vertical force at forefoot and to larger mean and peak pressure at hindfoot and forefoot. Normalized walking speed was always positively correlated to mean and peak pressure at hindfoot and forefoot. While a large variance in plantar pressure data is still not accounted for by the present models, this study provides statistical corroboration of the close relationship between joint mobility and plantar pressure during stance in the normal healthy foot. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple Nonspecific Sites of Joint Pain Outside the Knees Develop in Persons With Knee Pain.

PubMed

Felson, David T; Niu, Jingbo; Quinn, Emily K; Neogi, Tuhina; Lewis, Cara L; Lewis, Cora E; Frey Law, Laura; McCulloch, Chuck; Nevitt, Michael; LaValley, Michael

2017-02-01

Many persons with knee pain have joint pain outside the knee, but despite the impact and high frequency of this pain, its distribution and causes have not been studied. We undertook this study to test the hypothesis of those studying gait abnormalities who have suggested that knee pain causes pain in adjacent joints but that pain adaptation strategies are highly individualized. We studied persons ages 50-79 years with or at high risk of knee osteoarthritis who were recruited from 2 community-based cohorts, the Multicenter Osteoarthritis Study and the Osteoarthritis Initiative, and we followed them up for 5-7 years. We excluded those with knee pain at baseline and compared those who had developed knee pain at the first follow-up examination (the index visit) with those who had not. We examined pain on most days at joint regions outside the knee in examinations after the index visit. Logistic regression analyses examined the risk of joint-specific pain adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and symptoms of depression, and we performed sensitivity analyses excluding those with widespread pain. In the combined cohorts, 693 persons had knee pain at the index visit and 2,793 did not. A total of 79.6% of those with bilateral knee pain and 63.8% of those with unilateral knee pain had pain during follow-up in a joint region outside the knee, compared with 49.9% of those without knee pain. There was an increased risk of pain at most extremity joint sites, without a predilection for specific sites. Results were unchanged when those with widespread pain were excluded. Persons with chronic knee pain are at increased risk of pain in multiple joints in no specific pattern. © 2016, American College of Rheumatology.

Joint inversion of NMR and SIP data to estimate pore size distribution of geomaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niu, Qifei; Zhang, Chi

2018-03-01

There are growing interests in using geophysical tools to characterize the microstructure of geomaterials because of the non-invasive nature and the applicability in field. In these applications, multiple types of geophysical data sets are usually processed separately, which may be inadequate to constrain the key feature of target variables. Therefore, simultaneous processing of multiple data sets could potentially improve the resolution. In this study, we propose a method to estimate pore size distribution by joint inversion of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) T2 relaxation and spectral induced polarization (SIP) spectra. The petrophysical relation between NMR T2 relaxation time and SIP relaxation time is incorporated in a nonlinear least squares problem formulation, which is solved using Gauss-Newton method. The joint inversion scheme is applied to a synthetic sample and a Berea sandstone sample. The jointly estimated pore size distributions are very close to the true model and results from other experimental method. Even when the knowledge of the petrophysical models of the sample is incomplete, the joint inversion can still capture the main features of the pore size distribution of the samples, including the general shape and relative peak positions of the distribution curves. It is also found from the numerical example that the surface relaxivity of the sample could be extracted with the joint inversion of NMR and SIP data if the diffusion coefficient of the ions in the electrical double layer is known. Comparing to individual inversions, the joint inversion could improve the resolution of the estimated pore size distribution because of the addition of extra data sets. The proposed approach might constitute a first step towards a comprehensive joint inversion that can extract the full pore geometry information of a geomaterial from NMR and SIP data.

Taking two to tango: fMRI analysis of improvised joint action with physical contact

PubMed Central

Belyk, Michel; Brown, Steven

2018-01-01

Many forms of joint action involve physical coupling between the participants, such as when moving a sofa together or dancing a tango. We report the results of a novel two-person functional MRI study in which trained couple dancers engaged in bimanual contact with an experimenter standing next to the bore of the magnet, and in which the two alternated between being the leader and the follower of joint improvised movements. Leading showed a general pattern of self-orientation, being associated with brain areas involved in motor planning, navigation, sequencing, action monitoring, and error correction. In contrast, following showed a far more sensory, externally-oriented pattern, revealing areas involved in somatosensation, proprioception, motion tracking, social cognition, and outcome monitoring. We also had participants perform a “mutual” condition in which the movement patterns were pre-learned and the roles were symmetric, thereby minimizing any tendency toward either leading or following. The mutual condition showed greater activity in brain areas involved in mentalizing and social reward than did leading or following. Finally, the analysis of improvisation revealed the dual importance of motor-planning and working-memory areas. We discuss these results in terms of theories of both joint action and improvisation. PMID:29324862

Separation/extraction, detection, and interpretation of DNA mixtures in forensic science (review).

PubMed

Tao, Ruiyang; Wang, Shouyu; Zhang, Jiashuo; Zhang, Jingyi; Yang, Zihao; Sheng, Xiang; Hou, Yiping; Zhang, Suhua; Li, Chengtao

2018-05-25

Interpreting mixed DNA samples containing material from multiple contributors has long been considered a major challenge in forensic casework, especially when encountering low-template DNA (LT-DNA) or high-order mixtures that may involve missing alleles (dropout) and unrelated alleles (drop-in), among others. In the last decades, extraordinary progress has been made in the analysis of mixed DNA samples, which has led to increasing attention to this research field. The advent of new methods for the separation and extraction of DNA from mixtures, novel or jointly applied genetic markers for detection and reliable interpretation approaches for estimating the weight of evidence, as well as the powerful massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technology, has greatly extended the range of mixed samples that can be correctly analyzed. Here, we summarized the investigative approaches and progress in the field of forensic DNA mixture analysis, hoping to provide some assistance to forensic practitioners and to promote further development involving this issue.

Toward Multimodal Human-Robot Interaction to Enhance Active Participation of Users in Gait Rehabilitation.

PubMed

Gui, Kai; Liu, Honghai; Zhang, Dingguo

2017-11-01

Robotic exoskeletons for physical rehabilitation have been utilized for retraining patients suffering from paraplegia and enhancing motor recovery in recent years. However, users are not voluntarily involved in most systems. This paper aims to develop a locomotion trainer with multiple gait patterns, which can be controlled by the active motion intention of users. A multimodal human-robot interaction (HRI) system is established to enhance subject's active participation during gait rehabilitation, which includes cognitive HRI (cHRI) and physical HRI (pHRI). The cHRI adopts brain-computer interface based on steady-state visual evoked potential. The pHRI is realized via admittance control based on electromyography. A central pattern generator is utilized to produce rhythmic and continuous lower joint trajectories, and its state variables are regulated by cHRI and pHRI. A custom-made leg exoskeleton prototype with the proposed multimodal HRI is tested on healthy subjects and stroke patients. The results show that voluntary and active participation can be effectively involved to achieve various assistive gait patterns.

Complex index of refraction estimation from degree of polarization with diffuse scattering consideration.

PubMed

Zhan, Hanyu; Voelz, David G; Cho, Sang-Yeon; Xiao, Xifeng

2015-11-20

The estimation of the refractive index from optical scattering off a target's surface is an important task for remote sensing applications. Optical polarimetry is an approach that shows promise for refractive index estimation. However, this estimation often relies on polarimetric models that are limited to specular targets involving single surface scattering. Here, an analytic model is developed for the degree of polarization (DOP) associated with reflection from a rough surface that includes the effect of diffuse scattering. A multiplicative factor is derived to account for the diffuse component and evaluation of the model indicates that diffuse scattering can significantly affect the DOP values. The scattering model is used in a new approach for refractive index estimation from a series of DOP values that involves jointly estimating n, k, and ρ(d)with a nonlinear equation solver. The approach is shown to work well with simulation data and additive noise. When applied to laboratory-measured DOP values, the approach produces significantly improved index estimation results relative to reference values.

SAPHO Syndrome – A Pictorial Assay

PubMed Central

Khanna, Lokesh; El-khoury, Georges Y.

2012-01-01

SAPHO (synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis and osteitis) syndrome is a distinct clinical entity representing involvement of the musculoskeletal and dermatologic systems. It is well known to rheumatologists because of characteristic skin manifestations and polyarthropathy. However, few reports exist in the orthopaedic literature. It is important to be aware of sAPHO syndrome as it can mimic some of the more common disease entities such as infection, tumor, and other inflammatory arthropathies. Anterior chest wall pain centered at sternoclavicular and sternocostal joints is an important and characteristic clinical finding which can point to its diagnosis. A patient may undergo different diagnostic tests and invasive procedures such as biopsies before a diagnosis is made. Imaging can be helpful by offering a detailed evaluation of the abnormalities. More importantly it helps in revealing subclinical foci of involvement due to the polyostotic nature of the disease. The treatment is mostly nonsurgical. NSAIDS are the first line agents. However multiple new agents are being used for refractory cases. Surgery is reserved to treat complications. PMID:23576940

Transcriptome-Wide Expression Profiling in Skin Fibroblasts of Patients with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Hypermobility Type.

PubMed

Chiarelli, Nicola; Carini, Giulia; Zoppi, Nicoletta; Dordoni, Chiara; Ritelli, Marco; Venturini, Marina; Castori, Marco; Colombi, Marina

2016-01-01

Joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type (JHS/EDS-HT), is likely the most common systemic heritable connective tissue disorder, and is mostly recognized by generalized joint hypermobility, joint instability complications, minor skin changes and a wide range of satellite features. JHS/EDS-HT is considered an autosomal dominant trait but is still without a defined molecular basis. The absence of (a) causative gene(s) for JHS/EDS-HT is likely attributable to marked genetic heterogeneity and/or interaction of multiple loci. In order to help in deciphering such a complex molecular background, we carried out a comprehensive immunofluorescence analysis and gene expression profiling in cultured skin fibroblasts from five women affected with JHS/EDS-HT. Protein study revealed disarray of several matrix structural components such as fibrillins, tenascins, elastin, collagens, fibronectin, and their integrin receptors. Transcriptome analysis indicated perturbation of different signaling cascades that are required for homeostatic regulation either during development or in adult tissues as well as altered expression of several genes involved in maintenance of extracellular matrix architecture and homeostasis (e.g., SPON2, TGM2, MMP16, GPC4, SULF1), cell-cell adhesion (e.g., CDH2, CHD10, PCDH9, CLDN11, FLG, DSP), immune/inflammatory/pain responses (e.g., CFD, AQP9, COLEC12, KCNQ5, PRLR), and essential for redox balance (e.g., ADH1C, AKR1C2, AKR1C3, MAOB, GSTM5). Our findings provide a picture of the gene expression profile and dysregulated pathways in JHS/EDS-HT skin fibroblasts that correlate well with the systemic phenotype of the patients.

A Comparison of Joint Model and Fully Conditional Specification Imputation for Multilevel Missing Data

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mistler, Stephen A.; Enders, Craig K.

2017-01-01

Multiple imputation methods can generally be divided into two broad frameworks: joint model (JM) imputation and fully conditional specification (FCS) imputation. JM draws missing values simultaneously for all incomplete variables using a multivariate distribution, whereas FCS imputes variables one at a time from a series of univariate conditional…

Declarative Joint Attention as a Foundation of Theory of Mind

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sodian, Beate; Kristen-Antonow, Susanne

2015-01-01

Theories of social-cognitive development have attributed a foundational role to declarative joint attention. The present longitudinal study of 83 children, who were assessed on a battery of social-cognitive tasks at multiple measurement points from the age of 12 to 50 months, tested a predictive model of theory of mind (false-belief…

Functional impacts of exoskeleton-based rehabilitation in chronic stroke: multi-joint versus single-joint robotic training

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Stroke is a major cause of disability in the world. The activities of upper limb segments are often compromised following a stroke, impairing most daily tasks. Robotic training is now considered amongst the rehabilitation methods applied to promote functional recovery. However, the implementation of robotic devices remains a major challenge for the bioengineering and clinical community. Latest exoskeletons with multiple degrees of freedom (DOF) may become particularly attractive, because of their low apparent inertia, the multiple actuators generating large torques, and the fact that patients can move the arm in the normal wide workspace. A recent study published in JNER by Milot and colleagues underlines that training with a 6-DOF exoskeleton impacts positively on motor function in patients being in stable phase of recovery after a stroke. Also, multi-joint robotic training was not found to be superior to single-joint robotic training. Although it is often considered that rehabilitation should start from simple movements to complex functional movements as the recovery evolves, this study challenges this widespread notion whose scientific basis has remained uncertain. PMID:24354518

Combined medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, subtalar joint arthrodesis, and ankle arthrodiastasis for end-stage posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

PubMed

Stapleton, John J; Belczyk, Ronald; Zgonis, Thomas; Polyzois, Vasilios D

2009-04-01

Combining an ankle arthrodiastasis with a medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy and a subtalar joint arthrodesis offers surgeons a joint-sparing procedure for young and active patients who have end-stage posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and ankle joint involvement. An isolated subtalar joint arthrodesis or triple arthrodesis combined with an ankle arthrodiastasis is an option that can be used in certain case scenarios. Delaying the need for a joint destructive procedure through an ankle arthrodiastasis, however, may have a great impact in the near future, as advancements are underway to improve the use of ankle endoprosthesis.

Real-time ultrasound image classification for spine anesthesia using local directional Hadamard features.

PubMed

Pesteie, Mehran; Abolmaesumi, Purang; Ashab, Hussam Al-Deen; Lessoway, Victoria A; Massey, Simon; Gunka, Vit; Rohling, Robert N

2015-06-01

Injection therapy is a commonly used solution for back pain management. This procedure typically involves percutaneous insertion of a needle between or around the vertebrae, to deliver anesthetics near nerve bundles. Most frequently, spinal injections are performed either blindly using palpation or under the guidance of fluoroscopy or computed tomography. Recently, due to the drawbacks of the ionizing radiation of such imaging modalities, there has been a growing interest in using ultrasound imaging as an alternative. However, the complex spinal anatomy with different wave-like structures, affected by speckle noise, makes the accurate identification of the appropriate injection plane difficult. The aim of this study was to propose an automated system that can identify the optimal plane for epidural steroid injections and facet joint injections. A multi-scale and multi-directional feature extraction system to provide automated identification of the appropriate plane is proposed. Local Hadamard coefficients are obtained using the sequency-ordered Hadamard transform at multiple scales. Directional features are extracted from local coefficients which correspond to different regions in the ultrasound images. An artificial neural network is trained based on the local directional Hadamard features for classification. The proposed method yields distinctive features for classification which successfully classified 1032 images out of 1090 for epidural steroid injection and 990 images out of 1052 for facet joint injection. In order to validate the proposed method, a leave-one-out cross-validation was performed. The average classification accuracy for leave-one-out validation was 94 % for epidural and 90 % for facet joint targets. Also, the feature extraction time for the proposed method was 20 ms for a native 2D ultrasound image. A real-time machine learning system based on the local directional Hadamard features extracted by the sequency-ordered Hadamard transform for detecting the laminae and facet joints in ultrasound images has been proposed. The system has the potential to assist the anesthesiologists in quickly finding the target plane for epidural steroid injections and facet joint injections.

Delayed diagnosis of a pseudoaneurysm with recurrent hemarthrosis of the knee joint.

PubMed

Becher, Christoph; Burger, Ulrike L; Allenberg, Jens R; Kaufmann, Guenter W; Thermann, Hajo

2008-06-01

This is a case report of recurrent hemarthrosis of the knee joint over 3 months. The patient, a 47-year-old male had three arthroscopic procedures with multiple joint punctures over a 3-month-period prior to our initial consultation. The first procedure (arthroscopic synovectomy) was done for suspected infection following a series of hyaluronic acid injections. Recurrent hemarthrosis developed subsequent to this. Upon further evaluation, a pseudoaneurysm of the superior middle genicular artery was detected and successfully treated with selective angiographic embolization.

Joint Precision Approach and Landing System Nunn-McCurdy Breach Root Cause Analysis and Portfolio Assessment Metrics for DoD Weapons Systems. Volume 8

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

system that would help in adverse weather conditions. U.S. operations in Bosnia, which were run from a relatively austere airfield with limited air... operations beginning in 2013 (CVN21, Joint Strike Fighter, Joint Unmanned Combat Air System ). cAccording to multiple FAA ofcial planning documents...Positioning System Next Generation Operational Control System HMS Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Fit HUD Head up Display IAMD Integrated Air and

Multiple joint metastasis of a transitional cell carcinoma in a dog.

PubMed

Colledge, Sarah L; Raskin, Rose E; Messick, Joanne B; Tiffany Reed, L; Wigle, William L; Balog, Kelley A

2013-06-01

An 8-year-old castrated male hound mix was referred to the Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital for severe lameness, pollakiuria, and dyschezia. On presentation, the dog was nonweight bearing on the right rear limb and the right carpus was diffusely swollen. Synovial fluid analysis from the right carpus revealed a population of epithelial cells displaying marked anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, multinucleation, and prominent, variably sized nucleoli. A metastatic carcinoma with presumed prostatic or urothelial origin was diagnosed based on cytomorphology. Subsequent cytologic evaluation of peripheral lymph nodes revealed the presence of a similar neoplastic population. The dog was euthanized and synovial fluid from both stifle joints, as well as impression smears of the prostate gland, were collected. Carcinoma cells were identified in each stifle joint and in the prostate gland. Immunocytochemistry was performed on synovial fluid smears from 2 of the joints (right stifle and right carpus) and on impression smears of the prostate gland. The neoplastic population in the joints and prostate gland showed strong immunoreactivity to uroplakin III, a urothelial marker, indicating metastasis of a transitional cell carcinoma to multiple joints. In addition, evidence for epithelial to mesenchymal transition was identified using cytokeratin, an epithelial marker, and vimentin, a mesenchymal marker. A necropsy was performed and histopathology confirmed the presence of metastatic transitional cell carcinoma in various tissues. This case illustrates the importance of considering metastatic disease when a patient is presented with severe lameness and joint pain, and the clinical utility of synovial fluid cytology for diagnosis of metastasis in these cases. © 2013 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

A Probabilistic Approach to Predict Thermal Fatigue Life for Ball Grid Array Solder Joints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Helin; Wang, Kuisheng

2011-11-01

Numerous studies of the reliability of solder joints have been performed. Most life prediction models are limited to a deterministic approach. However, manufacturing induces uncertainty in the geometry parameters of solder joints, and the environmental temperature varies widely due to end-user diversity, creating uncertainties in the reliability of solder joints. In this study, a methodology for accounting for variation in the lifetime prediction for lead-free solder joints of ball grid array packages (PBGA) is demonstrated. The key aspects of the solder joint parameters and the cyclic temperature range related to reliability are involved. Probabilistic solutions of the inelastic strain range and thermal fatigue life based on the Engelmaier model are developed to determine the probability of solder joint failure. The results indicate that the standard deviation increases significantly when more random variations are involved. Using the probabilistic method, the influence of each variable on the thermal fatigue life is quantified. This information can be used to optimize product design and process validation acceptance criteria. The probabilistic approach creates the opportunity to identify the root causes of failed samples from product fatigue tests and field returns. The method can be applied to better understand how variation affects parameters of interest in an electronic package design with area array interconnections.

Forelimb muscle and joint actions in Archosauria: insights from Crocodylus johnstoni (Pseudosuchia) and Mussaurus patagonicus (Sauropodomorpha)

PubMed Central

Allen, Vivian

2017-01-01

Many of the major locomotor transitions during the evolution of Archosauria, the lineage including crocodiles and birds as well as extinct Dinosauria, were shifts from quadrupedalism to bipedalism (and vice versa). Those occurred within a continuum between more sprawling and erect modes of locomotion and involved drastic changes of limb anatomy and function in several lineages, including sauropodomorph dinosaurs. We present biomechanical computer models of two locomotor extremes within Archosauria in an analysis of joint ranges of motion and the moment arms of the major forelimb muscles in order to quantify biomechanical differences between more sprawling, pseudosuchian (represented the crocodile Crocodylus johnstoni) and more erect, dinosaurian (represented by the sauropodomorph Mussaurus patagonicus) modes of forelimb function. We compare these two locomotor extremes in terms of the reconstructed musculoskeletal anatomy, ranges of motion of the forelimb joints and the moment arm patterns of muscles across those ranges of joint motion. We reconstructed the three-dimensional paths of 30 muscles acting around the shoulder, elbow and wrist joints. We explicitly evaluate how forelimb joint mobility and muscle actions may have changed with postural and anatomical alterations from basal archosaurs to early sauropodomorphs. We thus evaluate in which ways forelimb posture was correlated with muscle leverage, and how such differences fit into a broader evolutionary context (i.e. transition from sprawling quadrupedalism to erect bipedalism and then shifting to graviportal quadrupedalism). Our analysis reveals major differences of muscle actions between the more sprawling and erect models at the shoulder joint. These differences are related not only to the articular surfaces but also to the orientation of the scapula, in which extension/flexion movements in Crocodylus (e.g. protraction of the humerus) correspond to elevation/depression in Mussaurus. Muscle action is highly influenced by limb posture, more so than morphology. Habitual quadrupedalism in Mussaurus is not supported by our analysis of joint range of motion, which indicates that glenohumeral protraction was severely restricted. Additionally, some active pronation of the manus may have been possible in Mussaurus, allowing semi-pronation by a rearranging of the whole antebrachium (not the radius against the ulna, as previously thought) via long-axis rotation at the elbow joint. However, the muscles acting around this joint to actively pronate it may have been too weak to drive or maintain such orientations as opposed to a neutral position in between pronation and supination. Regardless, the origin of quadrupedalism in Sauropoda is not only linked to manus pronation but also to multiple shifts of forelimb morphology, allowing greater flexion movements of the glenohumeral joint and a more columnar forelimb posture. PMID:29188140

Mildly disabled persons with multiple sclerosis use similar net joint power strategies as healthy controls when walking speed increases.

PubMed

Brincks, John; Christensen, Lars Ejsing; Rehnquist, Mette Voigt; Petersen, Jesper; Sørensen, Henrik; Dalgas, Ulrik

2018-01-01

To improve walking in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), it is essential to understand the underlying mechanisms of walking. This study examined strategies in net joint power generated or absorbed by hip flexors, hip extensors, hip abductors, knee extensors, and plantar flexors in mildly disabled persons with MS and healthy controls at different walking speeds. Thirteen persons with MS and thirteen healthy controls participated and peak net joint power was calculated using 3D motion analysis. In general, no differences were found between speed-matched healthy controls and persons with MS, but the fastest walking speed was significantly higher in healthy controls (2.42 m/s vs. 1.70 m/s). The net joint power increased in hip flexors, hip extensors, hip abductors, knee extensors and plantar flexors in both groups, when walking speed increased. Significant correlations between changes in walking speed and changes in net joint power of plantar flexors, hip extensors and hip flexors existed in healthy controls and persons with MS, and in net knee extensor absorption power of persons with MS only. In contrast to previous studies, these findings suggest that mildly disabled persons with MS used similar kinetic strategies as healthy controls to increase walking speed.

Dermal fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition sustained by αvß3 integrin-ILK-Snail1/Slug signaling is a common feature for hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and hypermobility spectrum disorders.

PubMed

Zoppi, Nicoletta; Chiarelli, Nicola; Binetti, Silvia; Ritelli, Marco; Colombi, Marina

2018-04-01

Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) is a heritable connective tissue disorder with unknown molecular basis mainly characterized by generalized joint hypermobility, joint instability complications, and minor skin changes. The phenotypic spectrum is broad and includes multiple associated symptoms shared with chronic inflammatory systemic diseases. The stricter criteria defined in the 2017 EDS nosology leave without an identity many individuals with symptomatic joint hypermobility and/or features of hEDS; for these patients, the term Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) was introduced. We previously reported that in vitro cultured hEDS and HSD patients' skin fibroblasts show a disarray of several extracellular matrix (ECM) components and dysregulated expression of genes involved in connective tissue homeostasis and inflammatory/pain/immune responses. Herein, we report that hEDS and HSD skin fibroblasts exhibit in vitro a similar myofibroblast-like phenotype characterized by the organization of α-smooth muscle actin cytoskeleton, expression of OB-cadherin/cadherin-11, enhanced migratory capability associated with augmented levels of the ECM-degrading metalloproteinase-9, and altered expression of the inflammation mediators CCN1/CYR61 and CCN2/CTGF. We demonstrate that in hEDS and HSD cells this fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition is triggered by a signal transduction pathway that involves αvβ3 integrin-ILK complexes, organized in focal adhesions, and the Snail1/Slug transcription factor, thus providing insights into the molecular mechanisms related to the pathophysiology of these protean disorders. The indistinguishable phenotype identified in hEDS and HSD cells resembles an inflammatory-like condition, which correlates well with the systemic phenotype of patients, and suggests that these multisystemic disorders might be part of a phenotypic continuum rather than representing distinct clinical entities. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Lower extremity kinematics during walking and elliptical training in individuals with and without traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Buster, Thad; Burnfield, Judith; Taylor, Adam P; Stergiou, Nicholas

2013-12-01

Elliptical training may be an option for practicing walking-like activity for individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Understanding similarities and differences between participants with TBI and neurologically healthy individuals during elliptical trainer use and walking may help guide clinical applications incorporating elliptical trainers. Ten participants with TBI and a comparison group of 10 neurologically healthy participants underwent 2 familiarization sessions and 1 data collection session. Kinematic data were collected as participants walked on a treadmill or on an elliptical trainer. Gait-related measures, including coefficient of multiple correlations (a measure of similarity between ensemble joint movement profiles; coefficient of multiple correlations [CMCs]), critical event joint angles, variability of peak critical event joint angles (standard deviations [SDs]) of peak critical event joint angles, and maximum Lyapunov exponents (a measure of the organization of the variability [LyEs]) were compared between groups and conditions. Coefficient of multiple correlations values comparing the similarity in ensemble motion profiles between the TBI and comparison participants exceeded 0.85 for the hip, knee, and ankle joints. The only critical event joint angle that differed significantly between participants with TBI and comparison participants was the ankle during terminal stance. Variability was higher for the TBI group (6 of 11 comparisons significant) compared with comparison participants. Hip and knee joint movement patterns of both participants with TBI and comparison participants on the elliptical trainer were similar to walking (CMCs ≥ 0.87). Variability was higher during elliptical trainer usage compared with walking (5 of 11 comparisons significant). Hip LyEs were higher during treadmill walking. Ankle LyEs were greater during elliptical trainer usage. Movement patterns of participants with TBI were similar to, but more variable than, those of comparison participants while using both the treadmill and the elliptical trainer. If incorporation of complex movements similar to walking is a goal of rehabilitation, elliptical training is a reasonable alternative to treadmill-based training.Video Abstract available (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A65) for more insights from the authors.

A Novel Joint Problem of Routing, Scheduling, and Variable-Width Channel Allocation in WMNs

PubMed Central

Liu, Wan-Yu; Chou, Chun-Hung

2014-01-01

This paper investigates a novel joint problem of routing, scheduling, and channel allocation for single-radio multichannel wireless mesh networks in which multiple channel widths can be adjusted dynamically through a new software technology so that more concurrent transmissions and suppressed overlapping channel interference can be achieved. Although the previous works have studied this joint problem, their linear programming models for the problem were not incorporated with some delicate constraints. As a result, this paper first constructs a linear programming model with more practical concerns and then proposes a simulated annealing approach with a novel encoding mechanism, in which the configurations of multiple time slots are devised to characterize the dynamic transmission process. Experimental results show that our approach can find the same or similar solutions as the optimal solutions for smaller-scale problems and can efficiently find good-quality solutions for a variety of larger-scale problems. PMID:24982990

Joint channel estimation and multi-user detection for multipath fading channels in DS-CDMA systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Sau-Hsuan; Kuo, C.-C. Jay

2002-11-01

The technique of joint blind channel estimation and multiple access interference (MAI) suppression for an asynchronous code-division multiple-access (CDMA) system is investigated in this research. To identify and track dispersive time-varying fading channels and to avoid the phase ambiguity that come with the second-order statistic approaches, a sliding-window scheme using the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm is proposed. The complexity of joint channel equalization and symbol detection for all users increases exponentially with system loading and the channel memory. The situation is exacerbated if strong inter-symbol interference (ISI) exists. To reduce the complexity and the number of samples required for channel estimation, a blind multiuser detector is developed. Together with multi-stage interference cancellation using soft outputs provided by this detector, our algorithm can track fading channels with no phase ambiguity even when channel gains attenuate close to zero.

Motion and force control for multiple cooperative manipulators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wen, John T.; Kreutz, Kenneth

1989-01-01

The motion and force control of multiple robot arms manipulating a commonly held object is addressed. A general control paradigm that decouples the motion and force control problems is introduced. For motion control, there are three natural choices: (1) joint torques, (2) arm-tip force vectors, and (3) the acceleration of a generalized coordinate. Choice (1) allows a class of relatively model-independent control laws by exploiting the Hamiltonian structure of the open-loop system; (2) and (3) require the full model information but produce simpler problems. To resolve the nonuniqueness of the joint torques, two methods are introduced. If the arm and object models are available, the allocation of the desired end-effector control force to the joint actuators can be optimized; otherwise the internal force can be controlled about some set point. It is shown that effective force regulation can be achieved even if little model information is available.

Argumentation Based Joint Learning: A Novel Ensemble Learning Approach

PubMed Central

Xu, Junyi; Yao, Li; Li, Le

2015-01-01

Recently, ensemble learning methods have been widely used to improve classification performance in machine learning. In this paper, we present a novel ensemble learning method: argumentation based multi-agent joint learning (AMAJL), which integrates ideas from multi-agent argumentation, ensemble learning, and association rule mining. In AMAJL, argumentation technology is introduced as an ensemble strategy to integrate multiple base classifiers and generate a high performance ensemble classifier. We design an argumentation framework named Arena as a communication platform for knowledge integration. Through argumentation based joint learning, high quality individual knowledge can be extracted, and thus a refined global knowledge base can be generated and used independently for classification. We perform numerous experiments on multiple public datasets using AMAJL and other benchmark methods. The results demonstrate that our method can effectively extract high quality knowledge for ensemble classifier and improve the performance of classification. PMID:25966359

Scavenger receptor class A type I/II determines matrix metalloproteinase-mediated cartilage destruction and chondrocyte death in antigen-induced arthritis.

PubMed

van Lent, P L E M; Hofkens, W; Blom, A B; Grevers, L; Sloetjes, A; Takahashi, N; van Tits, L J; Vogl, T; Roth, J; de Winther, M P; van den Berg, W B

2009-10-01

Scavenger receptor class A type I (SR-AI) and SR-AII are expressed by macrophages in particular and bind and internalize a broad range of molecules (including endotoxins, apoptotic bodies, and oxidized low-density lipoprotein). This study was undertaken to investigate the role of SR-AI/II in mediating severe cartilage destruction in antigen-induced arthritis (AIA). AIA was induced in the knee joints of SR-AI/II(-/-) mice and wild-type (WT) controls. Joint inflammation and cartilage destruction (chondrocyte death) were measured by examining the histology of total knee joints. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-mediated neoepitopes were measured by immunolocalization using anti-VDIPEN antibodies and chondrocyte activation with anti-S100A8 antibodies. Messenger RNA (mRNA) levels were determined in inflamed synovium using microarray analysis and quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. In synovial washouts, cytokines (interleukin-1beta [IL-1beta], IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor alpha) and S100A8/S100A9 were measured using Luminex and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Levels of SR-AI/II mRNA were strongly elevated in inflamed synovium in AIA. On days 2, 8, and 14 after AIA induction, joint inflammation (exudates/infiltrate) was similar between the 2 groups. In WT mice, severe cartilage destruction was found in multiple cartilage surfaces of the inflamed knee joint on day 14 after AIA induction. MMP-mediated matrix destruction ranged between 40% and 60%, and chondrocyte death was prominent in 40-75% of the cartilage surfaces. In striking contrast, in SR-AI/II(-/-) mice, despite comparable joint inflammation, pronounced cartilage destruction was almost completely absent. Levels of IL-1beta and S100A8/S100A9 were significantly lower on days 7 and 14 after AIA induction, but levels of mRNA for various MMPs (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13) were comparable. Our findings indicate that SR-AI and SR-AII are crucial receptors involved in mediating severe cartilage destruction in AIA.

Waste generated in high-rise buildings construction: a quantification model based on statistical multiple regression.

PubMed

Parisi Kern, Andrea; Ferreira Dias, Michele; Piva Kulakowski, Marlova; Paulo Gomes, Luciana

2015-05-01

Reducing construction waste is becoming a key environmental issue in the construction industry. The quantification of waste generation rates in the construction sector is an invaluable management tool in supporting mitigation actions. However, the quantification of waste can be a difficult process because of the specific characteristics and the wide range of materials used in different construction projects. Large variations are observed in the methods used to predict the amount of waste generated because of the range of variables involved in construction processes and the different contexts in which these methods are employed. This paper proposes a statistical model to determine the amount of waste generated in the construction of high-rise buildings by assessing the influence of design process and production system, often mentioned as the major culprits behind the generation of waste in construction. Multiple regression was used to conduct a case study based on multiple sources of data of eighteen residential buildings. The resulting statistical model produced dependent (i.e. amount of waste generated) and independent variables associated with the design and the production system used. The best regression model obtained from the sample data resulted in an adjusted R(2) value of 0.694, which means that it predicts approximately 69% of the factors involved in the generation of waste in similar constructions. Most independent variables showed a low determination coefficient when assessed in isolation, which emphasizes the importance of assessing their joint influence on the response (dependent) variable. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Analysis of Knee Joint Line Obliquity after High Tibial Osteotomy.

PubMed

Oh, Kwang-Jun; Ko, Young Bong; Bae, Ji Hoon; Yoon, Suk Tae; Kim, Jae Gyoon

2016-11-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate which lower extremity alignment (knee and ankle joint) parameters affect knee joint line obliquity (KJLO) in the coronal plane after open wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO). Overall, 69 knees of patients that underwent OWHTO were evaluated using radiographs obtained preoperatively and from 6 weeks to 3 months postoperatively. We measured multiple parameters of knee and ankle joint alignment (hip-knee-ankle angle [HKA], joint line height [JLH], posterior tibial slope [PS], femoral condyle-tibial plateau angle [FCTP], medial proximal tibial angle [MPTA], mechanical lateral distal femoral angle [mLDFA], KJLO, talar tilt angle [TTA], ankle joint obliquity [AJO], and the lateral distal tibial ground surface angle [LDTGA]; preoperative [-pre], postoperative [-post], and the difference between -pre and -post values [-Δ]). We categorized patients into two groups according to the KJLO-post value (the normal group [within ± 4 degrees, 56 knees] and the abnormal group [greater than ± 4 degrees, 13 knees]), and compared their -pre parameters. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the contribution of the -pre parameters to abnormal KJLO-post. The mean HKA-Δ (-9.4 ± 4.7 degrees) was larger than the mean KJLO-Δ (-2.1 ± 3.2 degrees). The knee joint alignment parameters (the HKA-pre, FCTP-pre) differed significantly between the two groups ( p  < 0.05). In addition, the HKA-pre (odds ratio [OR] = 1.27, p  = 0.006) and FCTP-pre (OR = 2.13, p  = 0.006) were significant predictors of abnormal KJLO-post. However, -pre ankle joint parameters (TTA, AJO, and LDTGA) did not differ significantly between the two groups and were not significantly associated with the abnormal KJLO-post. The -pre knee joint alignment and knee joint convergence angle evaluated by HKA-pre and FCTP-pre angle, respectively, were significant predictors of abnormal KJLO after OWHTO. However, -pre ankle joint parameters were not significantly associated with abnormal KJLO after OWHTO. Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Efficacy and safety of concurrent collagenase clostridium histolyticum injections for multiple Dupuytren contractures.

PubMed

Coleman, Stephen; Gilpin, David; Kaplan, F Thomas D; Houston, Anthony; Kaufman, Gregory J; Cohen, Brian M; Jones, Nigel; Tursi, James P

2014-01-01

To assess the safety and efficacy of 2 concurrent injections of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) in the same hand to treat multiple Dupuytren flexion contractures. In a multicenter, open-label phase IIIb study, 60 patients received two 0.58-mg CCH doses injected into cords affecting 2 joints in the same hand during 1 visit, followed by finger extension approximately 24 hours later. Efficacy at postinjection day 30 (change in flexion contracture and active range of motion, patient satisfaction, physician-rated improvement, and rates of clinical success [flexion contracture 5° or less]) and adverse events were summarized. The concurrent injections were most commonly administered in cords affecting metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints on the same finger (47%) or 2 MCP joints on different fingers of the same hand (37%). Mean total (sum of the 2 treated joints) flexion contracture decreased 76%, from 87° to 24° (MCP joints: 86%; PIP joints: 66%). Mean total range of motion increased from 100° to 161°. Clinical success was 76% for MCP joints and 33% for PIP joints. Most patients were very satisfied (60%) or quite satisfied (28%) with treatment. Most investigators rated treated joints as very much improved (55%) or much improved (37%). The most common treatment-related adverse events (> 75% of patients) were contusion, pain in extremity, and edema peripheral (local edema). Most adverse events were mild to moderate in severity. Serious complications included 1 pulley rupture related to study medication and 1 flexor tendon rupture (following conclusion of the study). There were no systemic complications. Results suggest that 2 affected joints can be effectively and safely treated with concurrent CCH injections. There was an increased incidence of some adverse events with concurrent treatment (pruritus, lymphadenopathy, blood blister, and skin laceration) compared with treatment of a single joint. High degrees of patient satisfaction and physician-rated improvement were reported. Therapeutic IV. Copyright © 2014 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Compensating for intersegmental dynamics across the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints during feedforward and feedback control.

PubMed

Maeda, Rodrigo S; Cluff, Tyler; Gribble, Paul L; Pruszynski, J Andrew

2017-10-01

Moving the arm is complicated by mechanical interactions that arise between limb segments. Such intersegmental dynamics cause torques applied at one joint to produce movement at multiple joints, and in turn, the only way to create single joint movement is by applying torques at multiple joints. We investigated whether the nervous system accounts for intersegmental limb dynamics across the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints during self-initiated planar reaching and when countering external mechanical perturbations. Our first experiment tested whether the timing and amplitude of shoulder muscle activity account for interaction torques produced during single-joint elbow movements from different elbow initial orientations and over a range of movement speeds. We found that shoulder muscle activity reliably preceded movement onset and elbow agonist activity, and was scaled to compensate for the magnitude of interaction torques arising because of forearm rotation. Our second experiment tested whether elbow muscles compensate for interaction torques introduced by single-joint wrist movements. We found that elbow muscle activity preceded movement onset and wrist agonist muscle activity, and thus the nervous system predicted interaction torques arising because of hand rotation. Our third and fourth experiments tested whether shoulder muscles compensate for interaction torques introduced by different hand orientations during self-initiated elbow movements and to counter mechanical perturbations that caused pure elbow motion. We found that the nervous system predicted the amplitude and direction of interaction torques, appropriately scaling the amplitude of shoulder muscle activity during self-initiated elbow movements and rapid feedback control. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the nervous system robustly accounts for intersegmental dynamics and that the process is similar across the proximal to distal musculature of the arm as well as between feedforward (i.e., self-initiated) and feedback (i.e., reflexive) control. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Intersegmental dynamics complicate the mapping between applied joint torques and the resulting joint motions. We provide evidence that the nervous system robustly predicts these intersegmental limb dynamics across the shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints during reaching and when countering external perturbations. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Ambulatory surgery center joint ventures involving tax-exempt entities.

PubMed

Becker, S; Pristave, R J; McConnell, W

1999-01-01

This article provides an overview of the tax-exempt related issues for ambulatory surgery center joint ventures involving tax-exempt entities. The article analyzes the key points of analysis of the guidance released by the IRS, in particular General Counsel Memorandum 39862, Revenue Ruling 98-15, and Redlands Surgical Services v. Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service. These key points include whether the venture results in private inurement to insiders and whether the venture furthers the charitable purposes of the tax-exempt entity. The article also provides practical guidance to analyze the documents and structure of the joint venture to ensure compliance with the IRS guidance. These practical considerations include, among other things, whether the charitable purposes of the tax-exempt entity are clearly expressed in the documents and whether the tax-exempt entity has sufficient control over the joint venture to ensure the charitable purposes are being adhered to.

Does the nervous system use equilibrium-point control to guide single and multiple joint movements?

PubMed

Bizzi, E; Hogan, N; Mussa-Ivaldi, F A; Giszter, S

1992-12-01

The hypothesis that the central nervous system (CNS) generates movement as a shift of the limb's equilibrium posture has been corroborated experimentally in studies involving single- and multijoint motions. Posture may be controlled through the choice of muscle length-tension curve that set agonist-antagonist torque-angle curves determining an equilibrium position for the limb and the stiffness about the joints. Arm trajectories seem to be generated through a control signal defining a series of equilibrium postures. The equilibrium-point hypothesis drastically simplifies the requisite computations for multijoint movements and mechanical interactions with complex dynamic objects in the environment. Because the neuromuscular system is springlike, the instantaneous difference between the arm's actual position and the equilibrium position specified by the neural activity can generate the requisite torques, avoiding the complex "inverse dynamic" problem of computing the torques at the joints. The hypothesis provides a simple, unified description of posture and movement as well as contact control task performance, in which the limb must exert force stably and do work on objects in the environment. The latter is a surprisingly difficult problem, as robotic experience has shown. The prior evidence for the hypothesis came mainly from psychophysical and behavioral experiments. Our recent work has shown that microstimulation of the frog spinal cord's premotoneural network produces leg movements to various positions in the frog's motor space. The hypothesis can now be investigated in the neurophysiological machinery of the spinal cord.

A Kinematic Calibration Process for Flight Robotic Arms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collins, Curtis L.; Robinson, Matthew L.

2013-01-01

The Mars Science Laboratory (MSL) robotic arm is ten times more massive than any Mars robotic arm before it, yet with similar accuracy and repeatability positioning requirements. In order to assess and validate these requirements, a higher-fidelity model and calibration processes were needed. Kinematic calibration of robotic arms is a common and necessary process to ensure good positioning performance. Most methodologies assume a rigid arm, high-accuracy data collection, and some kind of optimization of kinematic parameters. A new detailed kinematic and deflection model of the MSL robotic arm was formulated in the design phase and used to update the initial positioning and orientation accuracy and repeatability requirements. This model included a higher-fidelity link stiffness matrix representation, as well as a link level thermal expansion model. In addition, it included an actuator backlash model. Analytical results highlighted the sensitivity of the arm accuracy to its joint initialization methodology. Because of this, a new technique for initializing the arm joint encoders through hardstop calibration was developed. This involved selecting arm configurations to use in Earth-based hardstop calibration that had corresponding configurations on Mars with the same joint torque to ensure repeatability in the different gravity environment. The process used to collect calibration data for the arm included the use of multiple weight stand-in turrets with enough metrology targets to reconstruct the full six-degree-of-freedom location of the rover and tool frames. The follow-on data processing of the metrology data utilized a standard differential formulation and linear parameter optimization technique.

[Rheumatoid arthritis as a connective tissue disease].

PubMed

Targońska-Stępniak, Bożena

2018-01-01

The available data indicate that seropositive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) develops as a result of systemic, autoimmune reaction directed against a range of "self" peptides/proteins that have undergone specific forms of post-translational modification. The development and progress of autoimmunity may be triggered by non-specific, local inflammatory processes outside the joints, for example in the oral or respiratory mucous membrane. The disease occurs in genetically susceptible individuals under the influence of environmental risk factors that promote autoimmunity and consequently the inflammatory process. Smoking is particularly linked with RA pathogenesis. Synovitis of multiple, symmetrical, peripheral joints is the most typical feature of RA which results in irreversible damage to joints structure and as a consequence in disability of patients. However, the inflammatory process in the course of RA has a systemic, constitutional nature. Therefore, extra-articular symptoms with internal organ involvement may occur additionally to synovitis, what is an unfavorable prognostic factor. Extra-articular manifestations of RA are associated with the high disease activity both inflammatory and immunological. They occur in patients with severe form of the disease and contribute to a significant lifespan reduction. This is usually associated with progressive atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. The systemic inhibition of an abnormal immune system activity is the mainstay of the effective RA treatment. The currently used disease modifying antirheumatic drugs affect the activity and function of different constituents of the immune system, including B and T lymphocytes and the main pro-inflammatory cytokines, and contribute to autoimmune and inflammatory processes.

Operational space weather product development and validation at the joint SMC-AFRL Rapid Prototyping Center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quigley, S.

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/VSB) and Detachment 11, Space &Missile Systems Center (SMC, Det 11/CIT) have combined efforts to design, develop, test, and implement graphical products for the Air Force's space weather operations center. These products are generated to analyze, specify, and forecast the effects of the near-earth space environment on Department of Defense systems and communications. Jointly-developed products that have been, or will soon be added to real-time operations include: 1) the Operational Space Environment Network Display (OpSEND) suit - a set of four products that address HF communication, UHF satellite communication scintillation, radar auroral clutter, and GP S single- frequency errors; 2) a solar radio background and burst effects (SoRBE) product suite; and C) a meteor effects (ME) product suite. The RPC is also involved in a rather substantial "V&V" effort to produce multiple operational product verifications and validations, with an added end goal of a generalized validation software package. The presentation will provide a general overview of the RPC and each of the products mentioned above, to include background science, operational history, inputs, outputs, dissemination, and customer uses for each.

Determining Underground Mining Work Postures Using Motion Capture and Digital Human Modeling

PubMed Central

Lutz, Timothy J.; DuCarme, Joseph P.; Smith, Adam K.; Ambrose, Dean

2017-01-01

According to Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) data, during 2008–2012 in the U.S., there were, on average, 65 lost-time accidents per year during routine mining and maintenance activities involving remote-controlled continuous mining machines (CMMs). To address this problem, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is currently investigating the implementation and integration of existing and emerging technologies in underground mines to provide automated, intelligent proximity detection (iPD) devices on CMMs. One research goal of NIOSH is to enhance the proximity detection system by improving its capability to track and determine identity, position, and posture of multiple workers, and to selectively disable machine functions to keep workers and machine operators safe. Posture of the miner can determine the safe working distance from a CMM by way of the variation in the proximity detection magnetic field. NIOSH collected and analyzed motion capture data and calculated joint angles of the back, hips, and knees from various postures on 12 human subjects. The results of the analysis suggests that lower body postures can be identified by observing the changes in joint angles of the right hip, left hip, right knee, and left knee. PMID:28626796

Joint modeling and registration of cell populations in cohorts of high-dimensional flow cytometric data.

PubMed

Pyne, Saumyadipta; Lee, Sharon X; Wang, Kui; Irish, Jonathan; Tamayo, Pablo; Nazaire, Marc-Danie; Duong, Tarn; Ng, Shu-Kay; Hafler, David; Levy, Ronald; Nolan, Garry P; Mesirov, Jill; McLachlan, Geoffrey J

2014-01-01

In biomedical applications, an experimenter encounters different potential sources of variation in data such as individual samples, multiple experimental conditions, and multivariate responses of a panel of markers such as from a signaling network. In multiparametric cytometry, which is often used for analyzing patient samples, such issues are critical. While computational methods can identify cell populations in individual samples, without the ability to automatically match them across samples, it is difficult to compare and characterize the populations in typical experiments, such as those responding to various stimulations or distinctive of particular patients or time-points, especially when there are many samples. Joint Clustering and Matching (JCM) is a multi-level framework for simultaneous modeling and registration of populations across a cohort. JCM models every population with a robust multivariate probability distribution. Simultaneously, JCM fits a random-effects model to construct an overall batch template--used for registering populations across samples, and classifying new samples. By tackling systems-level variation, JCM supports practical biomedical applications involving large cohorts. Software for fitting the JCM models have been implemented in an R package EMMIX-JCM, available from http://www.maths.uq.edu.au/~gjm/mix_soft/EMMIX-JCM/.

Compressive hyperspectral and multispectral imaging fusion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espitia, Óscar; Castillo, Sergio; Arguello, Henry

2016-05-01

Image fusion is a valuable framework which combines two or more images of the same scene from one or multiple sensors, allowing to improve the resolution of the images and increase the interpretable content. In remote sensing a common fusion problem consists of merging hyperspectral (HS) and multispectral (MS) images that involve large amount of redundant data, which ignores the highly correlated structure of the datacube along the spatial and spectral dimensions. Compressive HS and MS systems compress the spectral data in the acquisition step allowing to reduce the data redundancy by using different sampling patterns. This work presents a compressed HS and MS image fusion approach, which uses a high dimensional joint sparse model. The joint sparse model is formulated by combining HS and MS compressive acquisition models. The high spectral and spatial resolution image is reconstructed by using sparse optimization algorithms. Different fusion spectral image scenarios are used to explore the performance of the proposed scheme. Several simulations with synthetic and real datacubes show promising results as the reliable reconstruction of a high spectral and spatial resolution image can be achieved by using as few as just the 50% of the datacube.

Consensus Report by the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators and Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Consortium Joint Working Committees on Supportive Care Guidelines for Management of Veno-Occlusive Disease in Children and Adolescents, Part 3: Focus on Cardiorespiratory Dysfunction, Infections, Liver Dysfunction, and Delirium.

PubMed

Ovchinsky, Nadia; Frazier, Warren; Auletta, Jeffery J; Dvorak, Christopher C; Ardura, Monica; Song, Enkyung; McArthur, Jennifer; Jeyapalan, Asumthia; Tamburro, Robert; Mahadeo, Kris M; Traube, Chani; Duncan, Christine N; Bajwa, Rajinder P S

2018-02-01

Some patients with veno-occlusive disease (VOD) have multiorgan dysfunction, and multiple teams are involved in their daily care in the pediatric intensive care unit. Cardiorespiratory dysfunction is critical in these patients, requiring immediate action. The decision of whether to use a noninvasive or an invasive ventilation strategy may be difficult in the setting of mucositis or other comorbidities in patients with VOD. Similarly, monitoring of organ functions may be very challenging in these patients, who may have fulminant hepatic failure with or without hepatic encephalopathy complicated by delirium and/or infections. In this final guideline of our series on supportive care in patients with VOD, we address some of these questions and provide evidence-based recommendations on behalf of the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury and Sepsis Investigators and Pediatric Blood and Marrow Transplantation Consortium Joint Working Committees. Copyright © 2017 The American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Concurrent validation of Xsens MVN measurement of lower limb joint angular kinematics.

PubMed

Zhang, Jun-Tian; Novak, Alison C; Brouwer, Brenda; Li, Qingguo

2013-08-01

This study aims to validate a commercially available inertial sensor based motion capture system, Xsens MVN BIOMECH using its native protocols, against a camera-based motion capture system for the measurement of joint angular kinematics. Performance was evaluated by comparing waveform similarity using range of motion, mean error and a new formulation of the coefficient of multiple correlation (CMC). Three dimensional joint angles of the lower limbs were determined for ten healthy subjects while they performed three daily activities: level walking, stair ascent, and stair descent. Under all three walking conditions, the Xsens system most accurately determined the flexion/extension joint angle (CMC > 0.96) for all joints. The joint angle measurements associated with the other two joint axes had lower correlation including complex CMC values. The poor correlation in the other two joint axes is most likely due to differences in the anatomical frame definition of limb segments used by the Xsens and Optotrak systems. Implementation of a protocol to align these two systems is necessary when comparing joint angle waveforms measured by the Xsens and other motion capture systems.

17 CFR 162.5 - Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Affiliate Marketing Rules § 162.5 Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices. (a... conspicuous, as well as concise, and must accurately disclose the following: (i) (A) The name of the affiliate... notice; or (B) If jointly provided jointly by multiple affiliates and each affiliate shares a common name...

17 CFR 162.5 - Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Affiliate Marketing Rules § 162.5 Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices. (a... conspicuous, as well as concise, and must accurately disclose the following: (i) (A) The name of the affiliate... notice; or (B) If jointly provided jointly by multiple affiliates and each affiliate shares a common name...

17 CFR 162.5 - Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Business Affiliate Marketing Rules § 162.5 Contents of opt-out notice; consolidated and equivalent notices... conspicuous, as well as concise, and must accurately disclose the following: (i) (A) The name of the affiliate... notice; or (B) If jointly provided jointly by multiple affiliates and each affiliate shares a common name...

"Bill Is Now Singing": Joint Engagement and the Emergence of Social Communication of Three Young Children with Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vaiouli, Potheini; Grimmet, Kharon; Ruich, Lawrence J.

2015-01-01

Young children with autism spectrum disorder meet significant challenges in joint attention skills and in social communication. A child-centered, improvisational, music therapy intervention model was implemented to promote engagement in three young children with autism in a kindergarten classroom. A multiple baseline design compared the children's…

Robust, Globally Consistent, and Fully-automatic Multi-image Registration and Montage Synthesis for 3-D Multi-channel Images

PubMed Central

Tsai, Chia-Ling; Lister, James P.; Bjornsson, Christopher J; Smith, Karen; Shain, William; Barnes, Carol A.; Roysam, Badrinath

2013-01-01

The need to map regions of brain tissue that are much wider than the field of view of the microscope arises frequently. One common approach is to collect a series of overlapping partial views, and align them to synthesize a montage covering the entire region of interest. We present a method that advances this approach in multiple ways. Our method (1) produces a globally consistent joint registration of an unorganized collection of 3-D multi-channel images with or without stage micrometer data; (2) produces accurate registrations withstanding changes in scale, rotation, translation and shear by using a 3-D affine transformation model; (3) achieves complete automation, and does not require any parameter settings; (4) handles low and variable overlaps (5 – 15%) between adjacent images, minimizing the number of images required to cover a tissue region; (5) has the self-diagnostic ability to recognize registration failures instead of delivering incorrect results; (6) can handle a broad range of biological images by exploiting generic alignment cues from multiple fluorescence channels without requiring segmentation; and (7) is computationally efficient enough to run on desktop computers regardless of the number of images. The algorithm was tested with several tissue samples of at least 50 image tiles, involving over 5,000 image pairs. It correctly registered all image pairs with an overlap greater than 7%, correctly recognized all failures, and successfully joint-registered all images for all tissue samples studied. This algorithm is disseminated freely to the community as included with the FARSIGHT toolkit for microscopy (www.farsight-toolkit.org). PMID:21361958

A Space-Time Signal Decomposition Algorithm for Downlink MIMO DS-CDMA Receivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yung-Yi; Fang, Wen-Hsien; Chen, Jiunn-Tsair

We propose a dimension reduction algorithm for the receiver of the downlink of direct-sequence code-division multiple access (DS-CDMA) systems in which both the transmitters and the receivers employ antenna arrays of multiple elements. To estimate the high order channel parameters, we develop a layered architecture using dimension-reduced parameter estimation algorithms to estimate the frequency-selective multipath channels. In the proposed architecture, to exploit the space-time geometric characteristics of multipath channels, spatial beamformers and constrained (or unconstrained) temporal filters are adopted for clustered-multipath grouping and path isolation. In conjunction with the multiple access interference (MAI) suppression techniques, the proposed architecture jointly estimates the direction of arrivals, propagation delays, and fading amplitudes of the downlink fading multipaths. With the outputs of the proposed architecture, the signals of interest can then be naturally detected by using path-wise maximum ratio combining. Compared to the traditional techniques, such as the Joint-Angle-and-Delay-Estimation (JADE) algorithm for DOA-delay joint estimation and the space-time minimum mean square error (ST-MMSE) algorithm for signal detection, computer simulations show that the proposed algorithm substantially mitigate the computational complexity at the expense of only slight performance degradation.

Information security using multiple reference-based optical joint transform correlation and orthogonal code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazrul Islam, Mohammed; Karim, Mohammad A.; Vijayan Asari, K.

2013-09-01

Protecting and processing of confidential information, such as personal identification, biometrics, remains a challenging task for further research and development. A new methodology to ensure enhanced security of information in images through the use of encryption and multiplexing is proposed in this paper. We use orthogonal encoding scheme to encode multiple information independently and then combine them together to save storage space and transmission bandwidth. The encoded and multiplexed image is encrypted employing multiple reference-based joint transform correlation. The encryption key is fed into four channels which are relatively phase shifted by different amounts. The input image is introduced to all the channels and then Fourier transformed to obtain joint power spectra (JPS) signals. The resultant JPS signals are again phase-shifted and then combined to form a modified JPS signal which yields the encrypted image after having performed an inverse Fourier transformation. The proposed cryptographic system makes the confidential information absolutely inaccessible to any unauthorized intruder, while allows for the retrieval of the information to the respective authorized recipient without any distortion. The proposed technique is investigated through computer simulations under different practical conditions in order to verify its overall robustness.

Uplink transmit beamforming design for SINR maximization with full multiuser channel state information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xi, Songnan; Zoltowski, Michael D.

2008-04-01

Multiuser multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems are considered in this paper. We continue our research on uplink transmit beamforming design for multiple users under the assumption that the full multiuser channel state information, which is the collection of the channel state information between each of the users and the base station, is known not only to the receiver but also to all the transmitters. We propose an algorithm for designing optimal beamforming weights in terms of maximizing the signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR). Through statistical modeling, we decouple the original mathematically intractable optimization problem and achieved a closed-form solution. As in our previous work, the minimum mean-squared error (MMSE) receiver with successive interference cancellation (SIC) is adopted for multiuser detection. The proposed scheme is compared with an existing jointly optimized transceiver design, referred to as the joint transceiver in this paper, and our previously proposed eigen-beamforming algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate that our algorithm, with much less computational burden, accomplishes almost the same performance as the joint transceiver for spatially independent MIMO channel and even better performance for spatially correlated MIMO channels. And it always works better than our previously proposed eigen beamforming algorithm.

A descriptive analysis of 14 cases of progressive-psuedorheumatoid-arthropathy of childhood from south India: review of literature in comparison with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

PubMed

Ekbote, Alka V; Danda, Debashish; Kumar, Sathish; Danda, Sumita; Madhuri, Vrisha; Gibikote, Sridhar

2013-06-01

Progressive-psuedorheumatoid-arthropathy of childhood (PPAC) is an autosomal recessive single gene skeletal dysplasia involving joints. The gene attributed to its cause is WNT1-inducible-signaling pathway protein3 (WISP3). To study the clinical and radiographic presentation of PPAC in Indian patients and to compare with described features of PPAC and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) from published literature. All cases (n = 14) of PPAC seen in the Rheumatology and Clinical Genetics outpatient clinic between 2008 and 2011 with classical, clinical, and radiological features were studied. The demographic and clinical data were obtained from medical records of the outpatient visits. Slight female preponderance (57%) and history of consanguinity in parents (43%) was observed in this group. The median age at onset was 4.5 years (range from birth to 9 years of age). Early presentation below the age of 3 years was seen in 3/14 patients (21%) in this group. The growth of all the patients fell below the 3rd percentile for the age. Historically, hip joint involvement was the most common presenting feature; however, elbow, wrist, knees, feet, spine, shoulder joints and small joints, namely proximal interphalangeal (PIP), distal interphalangeal (DIP), metacarpophalangeal (MCP), metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP), and interphalangeal joints (IP) of the feet, were also involved, either clinically or radiologically in varying proportions. Platyspondyly was noted in all. Molecular analysis of the WISP3 gene identified mutations in all the 5 individuals in whom it was done. This descriptive case series of PPAC from India reports distinctly differentiating clinical, radiological, and molecular markers in contrast with classically described features of JIA, its mimic. Early presentation (age of onset below 3 years) with involvement of interphalangeal joints seen in three patients (21%) was a unique finding, with missense WISP3 gene mutations in all of them. Timely diagnosis of this entity can spare the patient from unnecessary investigations and toxic medications. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Systems Biology Approach to Synovial Joint Lubrication in Health, Injury, and Disease

PubMed Central

Hui, Alexander Y.; McCarty, William J.; Masuda, Koichi; Firestein, Gary S.; Sah, Robert L.

2013-01-01

The synovial joint contains synovial fluid (SF) within a cavity bounded by articular cartilage and synovium. SF is a viscous fluid that has lubrication, metabolic, and regulatory functions within synovial joints. SF contains lubricant molecules, including proteoglycan-4 and hyaluronan. SF is an ultrafiltrate of plasma with secreted contributions from cell populations lining and within the synovial joint space, including chondrocytes and synoviocytes. Maintenance of normal SF lubricant composition and function are important for joint homeostasis. In osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and joint injury, changes in lubricant composition and function accompany alterations in the cytokine and growth factor environment and increased fluid and molecular transport through joint tissues. Thus, understanding the synovial joint lubrication system requires a multi-faceted study of the various parts of the synovial joint and their interactions. Systems biology approaches at multiple scales are being used to describe the molecular, cellular, and tissue components and their interactions that comprise the functioning synovial joint. Analyses of the transcriptome and proteome of SF, cartilage, and synovium suggest that particular molecules and pathways play important roles in joint homeostasis and disease. Such information may be integrated with physicochemical tissue descriptions to construct integrative models of the synovial joint that ultimately may explain maintenance of health, recovery from injury, or development and progression of arthritis. PMID:21826801

Upper extremity interaction with a helicopter side airbag: injury criteria for dynamic hyperextension of the female elbow joint.

PubMed

Duma, Stefan M; Hansen, Gail A; Kennedy, Eric A; Rath, Amber L; McNally, Craig; Kemper, Andrew R; Smith, Eric P; Brolinson, P Gunnar; Stitzel, Joel D; Davis, Martin B; Bass, Cameron R; Brozoski, Frederick T; McEntire, B Joseph; Alem, Nabih M; Crowley, John S

2004-11-01

This paper describes a three part analysis to characterize the interaction between the female upper extremity and a helicopter cockpit side airbag system and to develop dynamic hyperextension injury criteria for the female elbow joint. Part I involved a series of 10 experiments with an original Army Black Hawk helicopter side airbag. A 5(th) percentile female Hybrid III instrumented upper extremity was used to demonstrate side airbag upper extremity loading. Two out of the 10 tests resulted in high elbow bending moments of 128 Nm and 144 Nm. Part II included dynamic hyperextension tests on 24 female cadaver elbow joints. The energy source was a drop tower utilizing a three-point bending configuration to apply elbow bending moments matching the previously conducted side airbag tests. Post-test necropsy showed that 16 of the 24 elbow joint tests resulted in injuries. Injury severity ranged from minor cartilage damage to more moderate joint dislocations and severe transverse fractures of the distal humerus. Peak elbow bending moments ranged from 42.4 Nm to 146.3 Nm. Peak bending moment proved to be a significant indicator of any elbow injury (p = 0.02) as well as elbow joint dislocation (p = 0.01). Logistic regression analyses were used to develop single and multiple variate injury risk functions. Using peak moment data for the entire test population, a 50% risk of obtaining any elbow injury was found at 56 Nm while a 50% risk of sustaining an elbow joint dislocation was found at 93 Nm for the female population. These results indicate that the peak elbow bending moments achieved in Part I are associated with a greater than 90% risk for elbow injury. Subsequently, the airbag was re-designed in an effort to mitigate this as well as the other upper extremity injury risks. Part III assessed the redesigned side airbag module to ensure injury risks had been reduced prior to implementing the new system. To facilitate this, 12 redesigned side airbag deployments were conducted using the same procedures as Part I. Results indicate that the re-designed side airbag has effectively mitigated elbow injury risks induced by the original side airbag design. It is anticipated that this study will provide researchers with additional injury criteria for assessing upper extremity injury risk caused by both military and automotive side airbag deployments.

The research of laryngeal joints to reconstruction and modeling.

PubMed

Zhang, Yi; Shi, Tingchun

2014-01-01

Larynx has a complex structure with joints and multiple functions. In order to study the artificial larynx and artificial auricle scaffold, a three-dimensional digital model of laryngeal joint is established in this paper using MIMICS with its biomechanical properties analyzed and calculated by using the finite element method. This model is based on the CT scanned images of 281 layers with an interlamellar spacing of 1.25 mm. The obtained data are denoised, segmented and smoothed before being loaded into MIMICS. By further optimizations, an accurate and complete 3D model can be obtained. Subsequently, a 3D FEM of the normal larynx joint is performed which allows observations from any dimensions and angles. Compared with natural laryngeal joint, this model has good geometric similarity and mechanically similar throat voicing functions.

Lumbar joint torque estimation based on simplified motion measurement using multiple inertial sensors.

PubMed

Miyajima, Saori; Tanaka, Takayuki; Imamura, Yumeko; Kusaka, Takashi

2015-01-01

We estimate lumbar torque based on motion measurement using only three inertial sensors. First, human motion is measured by a 6-axis motion tracking device that combines a 3-axis accelerometer and a 3-axis gyroscope placed on the shank, thigh, and back. Next, the lumbar joint torque during the motion is estimated by kinematic musculoskeletal simulation. The conventional method for estimating joint torque uses full body motion data measured by an optical motion capture system. However, in this research, joint torque is estimated by using only three link angles of the body, thigh, and shank. The utility of our method was verified by experiments. We measured motion of bendung knee and waist simultaneously. As the result, we were able to estimate the lumbar joint torque from measured motion.

Self-referenced processing, neurodevelopment and joint attention in autism.

PubMed

Mundy, Peter; Gwaltney, Mary; Henderson, Heather

2010-09-01

This article describes a parallel and distributed processing model (PDPM) of joint attention, self-referenced processing and autism. According to this model, autism involves early impairments in the capacity for rapid, integrated processing of self-referenced (proprioceptive and interoceptive) and other-referenced (exteroceptive) information. Measures of joint attention have proven useful in research on autism because they are sensitive to the early development of the 'parallel' and integrated processing of self- and other-referenced stimuli. Moreover, joint attention behaviors are a consequence, but also an organizer of the functional development of a distal distributed cortical system involving anterior networks including the prefrontal and insula cortices, as well as posterior neural networks including the temporal and parietal cortices. Measures of joint attention provide early behavioral indicators of atypical development in this parallel and distributed processing system in autism. In addition it is proposed that an early, chronic disturbance in the capacity for integrating self- and other-referenced information may have cascading effects on the development of self awareness in autism. The assumptions, empirical support and future research implications of this model are discussed.

Can physical joint simulators be used to anticipate clinical wear problems of new joint replacement implants prior to market release?

PubMed

Medley, John B

2016-05-01

One of the most important mandates of physical joint simulators is to provide test results that allow the implant manufacturer to anticipate and perhaps avoid clinical wear problems with their new products. This is best done before market release. This study gives four steps to follow in conducting such wear simulator testing. Two major examples involving hip wear simulators are discussed in which attempts had been made to predict clinical wear performance prior to market release. The second one, involving the DePuy ASR implant systems, is chosen for more extensive treatment by making it an illustrative example to explore whether wear simulator testing can anticipate clinical wear problems. It is concluded that hip wear simulator testing did provide data in the academic literature that indicated some risk of clinical wear problems prior to market release of the ASR implant systems. This supports the idea that physical joint simulators have an important role in the pre-market testing of new joint replacement implants. © IMechE 2016.

What It Takes. Air Force Command of Joint Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-01-01

Iraq Assistance Group IDE intermediate developmental education IO international organization ISAF International Security and Assistance Force ISR...Operations Table A.1—Continued Joint Task Force Mission/Operation Start End Service Command Rank JTF–Joint Area Support Group (JASG) Iraqi Freedom...be of interest to a wide group of Air Force personnel involved in the development and func- tion of the service’s command organizations, including

Femoroacetabular Impingement

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-04-01

the abnormal morphology of the femoral head indicative of FAI. Prominent osteophyte formation can be seen bilaterally at the femoral head-neck...marked joint space loss of the left hip which predominantly involves the superolateral aspect of the joint (Figs. 1B and 2). Subchondral sclerosis...B). Close up view of the left hip from Fig. 1A. Superolateral joint space loss, subchondral sclerosis, cystic changes of the anterolateral femoral

Composite Testing

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

characterising the behaviour and ultimate load capacity of adhesively bonded joints for both composite-to-composite and composite-to-metal hybrid systems...novel hybrid joint details one of which involved perforations in the steel. The second detail employed bonding and bolting. The detail performed well...will be fabricated by four teams (3TEX, Space Micro, Tech Partnership, and Beltran) as part of the STTR Hybrid Joints Test Articles Program. Each

Planning Paths Through Singularities in the Center of Mass Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doggett, William R.; Messner, William C.; Juang, Jer-Nan

1998-01-01

The center of mass space is a convenient space for planning motions that minimize reaction forces at the robot's base or optimize the stability of a mechanism. A unique problem associated with path planning in the center of mass space is the potential existence of multiple center of mass images for a single Cartesian obstacle, since a single center of mass location can correspond to multiple robot joint configurations. The existence of multiple images results in a need to either maintain multiple center of mass obstacle maps or to update obstacle locations when the robot passes through a singularity, such as when it moves from an elbow-up to an elbow-down configuration. To illustrate the concepts presented in this paper, a path is planned for an example task requiring motion through multiple center of mass space maps. The object of the path planning algorithm is to locate the bang- bang acceleration profile that minimizes the robot's base reactions in the presence of a single Cartesian obstacle. To simplify the presentation, only non-redundant robots are considered and joint non-linearities are neglected.

Associations between yoga practice and joint problems: a cross-sectional survey among 9151 Australian women.

PubMed

Lauche, Romy; Schumann, Dania; Sibbritt, David; Adams, Jon; Cramer, Holger

2017-07-01

Yoga exercises have been associated with joint problems recently, indicating that yoga practice might be potentially dangerous for joint health. This study aimed to analyse whether regular yoga practice is associated with the frequency of joint problems in upper middle-aged Australian women. Women aged 62-67 years from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH) were questioned in 2013 whether they experienced regular joint pain or problems in the past 12 months and whether they regularly practiced yoga. Associations of joint problems with yoga practice were analysed using Chi-squared tests and multiple logistic regression modelling. Of 9151 women, 29.8% reported regular problems with stiff or painful joints, and 15.2, 11.9, 18.1 and 15.9% reported regular problems with shoulders, hips, knees and feet, respectively, in the past 12 months. Yoga was practiced sometimes by 10.1% and often by 8.4% of women. Practicing yoga was not associated with upper or lower limb joint problems. No association between yoga practice and joint problems has been identified. Further studies are warranted for conclusive judgement of benefits and safety of yoga in relation to joint problems.

Novel angle estimation for bistatic MIMO radar using an improved MUSIC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jianfeng; Zhang, Xiaofei; Chen, Han

2014-09-01

In this article, we study the problem of angle estimation for bistatic multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar and propose an improved multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm for joint direction of departure (DOD) and direction of arrival (DOA) estimation. The proposed algorithm obtains initial estimations of angles obtained from the signal subspace and uses the local one-dimensional peak searches to achieve the joint estimations of DOD and DOA. The angle estimation performance of the proposed algorithm is better than that of estimation of signal parameters via rotational invariance techniques (ESPRIT) algorithm, and is almost the same as that of two-dimensional MUSIC. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm can be suitable for irregular array geometry, obtain automatically paired DOD and DOA estimations, and avoid two-dimensional peak searching. The simulation results verify the effectiveness and improvement of the algorithm.

Developmental patterns and parental correlates of youth leisure-time physical activity.

PubMed

Lam, Chun Bun; McHale, Susan M

2015-02-01

This study examined the developmental patterns and parental correlates of youth leisure-time physical activity from middle childhood through adolescence. On 5 occasions across 7 years, fathers, mothers, and children who were first- and second born from 201 European American, working- and middle-class families participated in home and multiple nightly phone interviews. Multilevel modeling revealed that, controlling for family socioeconomic status, neighborhood characteristics, and youth overweight status and physical health, leisure-time physical activity increased during middle childhood and declined across adolescence, and the decline was more pronounced for girls than for boys. Moreover, controlling for time-varying, parental work hours and youth interest in sports and outdoor activities, on occasions when fathers and mothers spent proportionally more time on these activities with youth than usual, youth also spent more total time on these activities than usual. The within-person association between mother-youth joint involvement and youth's total involvement in leisure-time physical activity reached statistical significance at the transition to adolescence, and became stronger over time. Findings highlight the importance of maintaining adolescents', especially girls', physical activity levels and targeting both fathers' and mothers' involvement to promote youth's physical activity. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved.

Assembly, Annotation, and Analysis of Multiple Mycorrhizal Fungal Genomes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Initiative Consortium, Mycorrhizal Genomics; Kuo, Alan; Grigoriev, Igor

Mycorrhizal fungi play critical roles in host plant health, soil community structure and chemistry, and carbon and nutrient cycling, all areas of intense interest to the US Dept. of Energy (DOE) Joint Genome Institute (JGI). To this end we are building on our earlier sequencing of the Laccaria bicolor genome by partnering with INRA-Nancy and the mycorrhizal research community in the MGI to sequence and analyze dozens of mycorrhizal genomes of all Basidiomycota and Ascomycota orders and multiple ecological types (ericoid, orchid, and ectomycorrhizal). JGI has developed and deployed high-throughput sequencing techniques, and Assembly, RNASeq, and Annotation Pipelines. In 2012more » alone we sequenced, assembled, and annotated 12 draft or improved genomes of mycorrhizae, and predicted ~;;232831 genes and ~;;15011 multigene families, All of this data is publicly available on JGI MycoCosm (http://jgi.doe.gov/fungi/), which provides access to both the genome data and tools with which to analyze the data. Preliminary comparisons of the current total of 14 public mycorrhizal genomes suggest that 1) short secreted proteins potentially involved in symbiosis are more enriched in some orders than in others amongst the mycorrhizal Agaricomycetes, 2) there are wide ranges of numbers of genes involved in certain functional categories, such as signal transduction and post-translational modification, and 3) novel gene families are specific to some ecological types.« less

Simulating the Structural Response of a Preloaded Bolted Joint

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, Norman F., Jr.; Phillips, Dawn R.; Raju, Ivatury S.

2008-01-01

The present paper describes the structural analyses performed on a preloaded bolted-joint configuration. The joint modeled was comprised of two L-shaped structures connected together using a single bolt. Each L-shaped structure involved a vertical flat segment (or shell wall) welded to a horizontal segment (or flange). Parametric studies were performed using elasto-plastic, large-deformation nonlinear finite element analyses to determine the influence of several factors on the bolted-joint response. The factors considered included bolt preload, washer-surface-bearing size, edge boundary conditions, joint segment length, and loading history. Joint response is reported in terms of displacements, gap opening, and surface strains. Most of the factors studied were determined to have minimal effect on the bolted-joint response; however, the washer-bearing-surface size affected the response significantly.

Experimental Investigation of Solder Joint Defect Formation and Mitigation in Reduced-Gravity Environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watson, J. Kevin; Struk, Peter M.; Pettegrew, RIchard D.; Downs, Robert S.

2006-01-01

This paper documents a research effort on reduced gravity soldering of plated through hole joints which was conducted jointly by the National Center for Space Exploration Research, NASA Glenn Research Center, and NASA Johnson Space Center. Significant increases in joint porosity and changes in external geometry were observed in joints produced in reduced gravity as compared to normal gravity. Multiple techniques for mitigating the observed increase in porosity were tried, including several combinations of flux and solder application techniques, and demoisturizing the circuit board prior to soldering. Results were consistent with the hypothesis that the source of the porosity is a combination of both trapped moisture in the circuit board itself, as well as vaporized flux that is trapped in the molten solder. Other topics investigated include correlation of visual inspection results with joint porosity, pore size measurements, limited pressure effects (0.08 MPa - 0.1 MPa) on the size and number of pores, and joint cooling rate.

Design of Revolute Joints for In-Mold Assembly Using Insert Molding.

PubMed

Ananthanarayanan, Arvind; Ehrlich, Leicester; Desai, Jaydev P; Gupta, Satyandra K

2011-12-01

Creating highly articulated miniature structures requires assembling a large number of small parts. This is a very challenging task and increases cost of mechanical assemblies. Insert molding presents the possibility of creating a highly articulated structure in a single molding step. This can be accomplished by placing multiple metallic bearings in the mold and injecting plastic on top of them. In theory, this idea can generate a multi degree of freedom structures in just one processing step without requiring any post molding assembly operations. However, the polymer material has a tendency to shrink on top of the metal bearings and hence jam the joints. Hence, until now insert molding has not been used to create articulated structures. This paper presents a theoretical model for estimating the extent of joint jamming that occurs due to the shrinkage of the polymer on top of the metal bearings. The level of joint jamming is seen as the effective torque needed to overcome the friction in the revolute joints formed by insert molding. We then use this model to select the optimum design parameters which can be used to fabricate functional, highly articulating assemblies while meeting manufacturing constraints. Our analysis shows that the strength of weld-lines formed during the in-mold assembly process play a significant role in determining the minimum joint dimensions necessary for fabricating functional revolute joints. We have used the models and methods described in this paper to successfully fabricate the structure for a minimally invasive medical robot prototype with potential applications in neurosurgery. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of building an articulated structure with multiple degrees of freedom using insert molding.

Use of the azimuthal resistivity technique for determination of regional azimuth of transmissivity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Carlson, D.

2010-01-01

Many bedrock units contain joint sets that commonly act as preferred paths for the movement of water, electrical charge, and possible contaminants associated with production or transit of crude oil or refined products. To facilitate the development of remediation programs, a need exists to reliably determine regional-scale properties of these joint sets: azimuth of transmissivity ellipse, dominant set, and trend(s). The surface azimuthal electrical resistivity survey method used for local in situ studies can be a noninvasive, reliable, efficient, and relatively cost-effective method for regional studies. The azimuthal resistivity survey method combines the use of standard resistivity equipment with a Wenner array rotated about a fixed center point, at selected degree intervals, which yields an apparent resistivity ellipse from which joint-set orientation can be determined. Regional application of the azimuthal survey method was tested at 17 sites in an approximately 500 km2 (193 mi2) area around Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with less than 15m (50 ft) overburden above the dolomite. Results of 26 azimuthal surveys were compared and determined to be consistent with the results of two other methods: direct observation of joint-set orientation and transmissivity ellipses from multiple-well-aquifer tests. The average of joint-set trend determined by azimuthal surveys is within 2.5?? of the average of joint-set trend determined by direct observation of major joint sets at 24 sites. The average of maximum of transmissivity trend determined by azimuthal surveys is within 5.7?? of the average of maximum of transmissivity trend determined for 14 multiple-well-aquifer tests. Copyright ?? 2010 The American Association of Petroleum Geologists/Division of Environmental Geosciences. All rights reserved.

Thermal conductance measurements of bolted copper joints for SuperCDMS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schmitt, R.; Tatkowski, Greg; Ruschman, M.

2015-09-01

Joint thermal conductance testing has been undertaken for bolted copper to copper connections from 60 mK to 26 K. This testing was performed to validate an initial design basis for the SuperCDMS experiment, where a dilution refrigerator will be coupled to a cryostat via multiple bolted connections. Copper used during testing was either gold plated or passivated with citric acid to prevent surface oxidation. Results obtained are well fit by a power law regression of joint thermal conductance to temperature and match well with data collected during a literature review.

Factors Affecting Student Burnout and Academic Achievement in Multiple Enrollment Programs in Taiwan's Technical-Vocational Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yang, Hui-Jen

2004-01-01

Instead of the 44-year joint entrance examination held so far in Taiwan, multiple enrollment programs are a more recent policy of the Ministry of Education to reform the deficiencies of the above mentioned examination. However, the results of multiple enrollment programs in reducing student pressure are not clear. Therefore, the main purpose of…

Experimental creation of quantum Zeno subspaces by repeated multi-spin projections in diamond

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalb, N.; Cramer, J.; Twitchen, D. J.; Markham, M.; Hanson, R.; Taminiau, T. H.

2016-10-01

Repeated observations inhibit the coherent evolution of quantum states through the quantum Zeno effect. In multi-qubit systems this effect provides opportunities to control complex quantum states. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that repeatedly projecting joint observables of multiple spins creates quantum Zeno subspaces and simultaneously suppresses the dephasing caused by a quasi-static environment. We encode up to two logical qubits in these subspaces and show that the enhancement of the dephasing time with increasing number of projections follows a scaling law that is independent of the number of spins involved. These results provide experimental insight into the interplay between frequent multi-spin measurements and slowly varying noise and pave the way for tailoring the dynamics of multi-qubit systems through repeated projections.

Joint Soviet-American experiment on hypokinesia: Experimental results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burovskiy, N. N.

1979-01-01

Comprehensive results are reported from the Soviet portion of a joint Soviet-American experiment involving hypokinesia. The main emphases are on chemical analyses of blood and urine, functional tests, and examination of the cardiovascular system by electrocardiography, echocardiography, and plethysmography.

Optimum design of bolted composite lap joints under mechanical and thermal loading

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kradinov, Vladimir Yurievich

A new approach is developed for the analysis and design of mechanically fastened composite lap joints under mechanical and thermal loading. Based on the combined complex potential and variational formulation, the solution method satisfies the equilibrium equations exactly while the boundary conditions are satisfied by minimizing the total potential. This approach is capable of modeling finite laminate planform dimensions, uniform and variable laminate thickness, laminate lay-up, interaction among bolts, bolt torque, bolt flexibility, bolt size, bolt-hole clearance and interference, insert dimensions and insert material properties. Comparing to the finite element analysis, the robustness of the method does not decrease when modeling the interaction of many bolts; also, the method is more suitable for parametric study and design optimization. The Genetic Algorithm (GA), a powerful optimization technique for multiple extrema functions in multiple dimensions search spaces, is applied in conjunction with the complex potential and variational formulation to achieve optimum designs of bolted composite lap joints. The objective of the optimization is to acquire such a design that ensures the highest strength of the joint. The fitness function for the GA optimization is based on the average stress failure criterion predicting net-section, shear-out, and bearing failure modes in bolted lap joints. The criterion accounts for the stress distribution in the thickness direction at the bolt location by applying an approach utilizing a beam on an elastic foundation formulation.

On the generation of tangential ground motion by underground explosions in jointed rocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vorobiev, Oleg; Ezzedine, Souheil; Antoun, Tarabay; Glenn, Lewis

2015-03-01

This paper describes computational studies of tangential ground motions generated by spherical explosions in a heavily jointed granite formation. Various factors affecting the shear wave generation are considered, including joint spacing, orientation and frictional properties. Simulations are performed both in 2-D for a single joint set to elucidate the basic response mechanisms, and in 3-D for multiple joint sets to realistically represent in situ conditions in a realistic geological setting. The joints are modelled explicitly using both contact elements and weakness planes in the material. Simulations are performed both deterministically and stochastically to quantify the effects of geological uncertainties on near field ground motions. The mechanical properties of the rock and the joints as well as the joint spacing and orientation are taken from experimental test data and geophysical logs corresponding to the Climax Stock granitic outcrop, which is the geological setting of the source physics experiment (SPE). Agreement between simulation results and near field wave motion data from SPE enables newfound understanding of the origin and extent of non-spherical motions associated with underground explosions in fractured geological media.

Influence of the Gap Width on the Geometry of the Welded Joint in Hybrid Laser-Arc Welding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turichin, G.; Tsibulskiy, I.; Kuznetsov, M.; Akhmetov, A.; Mildebrath, M.; Hassel, T.

The aim of this research was the experimental investigation of the influence of the gap width and speed of the welding wire on the changes of the geometry in the welded joint in the hybrid laser-arc welding of shipbuilding steel RS E36. The research was divided into three parts. First, in order to understand the influence of the gap width on the welded joint geometry, experimental research was done using continuous wave fiber laser IPG YLS-15000 with arc rectifier VDU-1500DC. The second part involved study of the geometry of the welded joint and hardness test results. Three macrosections from each welded joint were obtained. Influence of the gap width and welding wire speed on the welded joint geometry was researched in the three lines: in the right side of the plates, middle welded joint and in the root welded joint.

Thermal regulation in multiple-source arc welding involving material transformations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Doumanidis, C.C.

1995-06-01

This article addresses regulation of the thermal field generated during arc welding, as the cause of solidification, heat-affected zone and cooling rate related metallurgical transformations affecting the final microstructure and mechanical properties of various welded materials. This temperature field is described by a dynamic real-time process model, consisting of an analytical composite conduction expression for the solid region, and a lumped-state, double-stream circulation model in the weld pool, integrated with a Gaussian heat input and calibrated experimentally through butt joint GMAW tests on plain steel plates. This model serves as the basis of an in-process thermal control system employing feedbackmore » of part surface temperatures measured by infrared pyrometry; and real-time identification of the model parameters with a multivariable adaptive control strategy. Multiple heat inputs and continuous power distributions are implemented by a single time-multiplexed torch, scanning the weld surface to ensure independent, decoupled control of several thermal characteristics. Their regulation is experimentally obtained in longitudinal GTAW of stainless steel pipes, despite the presence of several geometrical, thermal and process condition disturbances of arc welding.« less

Ability of finger-jointed lumber to maintain load at elevated temperatures

Treesearch

Douglas R. Rammer; Samuel L. Zelinka; Laura E Hasburgh; Steven T. Craft

2018-01-01

This article presents a test method that was developed to screen adhesive formulations for finger-jointed lumber. The goal was to develop a small-scale test that could be used to predict whether an adhesive would pass a full-scale ASTM E119 wall assembly test. The method involved loading a 38-mm square finger-jointed sample in a four-point bending test inside of an...

Joint Rhythmic Movement Increases 4-Year-Old Children's Prosocial Sharing and Fairness Toward Peers.

PubMed

Rabinowitch, Tal-Chen; Meltzoff, Andrew N

2017-01-01

The allocation of resources to a peer partner is a prosocial act that is of fundamental importance. Joint rhythmic movement, such as occurs during musical interaction, can induce positive social experiences, which may play a role in developing and enhancing young children's prosocial skills. Here, we investigated whether joint rhythmic movement, free of musical context, increases 4-year-olds' sharing and sense of fairness in a resource allocation task involving peers. We developed a precise procedure for administering joint synchronous experience, joint asynchronous experience, and a baseline control involving no treatment. Then we tested how participants allocated resources between self and peer. We found an increase in the generous allocation of resources to peers following both synchronous and asynchronous movement compared to no treatment. At a more theoretical level, this result is considered in relation to previous work testing other aspects of child prosociality, for example, peer cooperation, which can be distinguished from judgments of fairness in resource allocation tasks. We draw a conceptual distinction between two types of prosocial behavior: resource allocation (an other-directed individual behavior) and cooperation (a goal-directed collaborative endeavor). Our results highlight how rhythmic interactions, which are prominent in joint musical engagements and synchronized activity, influence prosocial behavior between preschool peers.

Joint Rhythmic Movement Increases 4-Year-Old Children’s Prosocial Sharing and Fairness Toward Peers

PubMed Central

Rabinowitch, Tal-Chen; Meltzoff, Andrew N.

2017-01-01

The allocation of resources to a peer partner is a prosocial act that is of fundamental importance. Joint rhythmic movement, such as occurs during musical interaction, can induce positive social experiences, which may play a role in developing and enhancing young children’s prosocial skills. Here, we investigated whether joint rhythmic movement, free of musical context, increases 4-year-olds’ sharing and sense of fairness in a resource allocation task involving peers. We developed a precise procedure for administering joint synchronous experience, joint asynchronous experience, and a baseline control involving no treatment. Then we tested how participants allocated resources between self and peer. We found an increase in the generous allocation of resources to peers following both synchronous and asynchronous movement compared to no treatment. At a more theoretical level, this result is considered in relation to previous work testing other aspects of child prosociality, for example, peer cooperation, which can be distinguished from judgments of fairness in resource allocation tasks. We draw a conceptual distinction between two types of prosocial behavior: resource allocation (an other-directed individual behavior) and cooperation (a goal-directed collaborative endeavor). Our results highlight how rhythmic interactions, which are prominent in joint musical engagements and synchronized activity, influence prosocial behavior between preschool peers. PMID:28694786

Youth, alcohol, and speeding : their joint contribution to highway accidents

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-09-01

The objective of the project was to obtain empirical data on the joint influence of slightly excessive speed and low-to-moderate blood-alcohol concentration upon accident-involvement as a function of age and driving experience, and to determine if th...

Nonlinear structural joint model updating based on instantaneous characteristics of dynamic responses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zuo-Cai; Xin, Yu; Ren, Wei-Xin

2016-08-01

This paper proposes a new nonlinear joint model updating method for shear type structures based on the instantaneous characteristics of the decomposed structural dynamic responses. To obtain an accurate representation of a nonlinear system's dynamics, the nonlinear joint model is described as the nonlinear spring element with bilinear stiffness. The instantaneous frequencies and amplitudes of the decomposed mono-component are first extracted by the analytical mode decomposition (AMD) method. Then, an objective function based on the residuals of the instantaneous frequencies and amplitudes between the experimental structure and the nonlinear model is created for the nonlinear joint model updating. The optimal values of the nonlinear joint model parameters are obtained by minimizing the objective function using the simulated annealing global optimization method. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a single-story shear type structure subjected to earthquake and harmonic excitations is simulated as a numerical example. Then, a beam structure with multiple local nonlinear elements subjected to earthquake excitation is also simulated. The nonlinear beam structure is updated based on the global and local model using the proposed method. The results show that the proposed local nonlinear model updating method is more effective for structures with multiple local nonlinear elements. Finally, the proposed method is verified by the shake table test of a real high voltage switch structure. The accuracy of the proposed method is quantified both in numerical and experimental applications using the defined error indices. Both the numerical and experimental results have shown that the proposed method can effectively update the nonlinear joint model.

Service Users' Involvement and Engagement in Interprofessional Care.

PubMed

Kaini, B K

2016-01-01

Interprofessional care is joint working between health care professionals by pooling their skills, knowledge and expertise, to make joint decisions and learn from each other for the benefits of service users and healthcare professionals. Service users involvement is considered as one of the important aspects of planning, management and decision making process in the delivery of health care to service users. Service users' involvement is not the same as public involvement and partnership arrangements in health care. The active involvement and engagement of service users in health care positively contributes to improve quality of care, to promote better health and to shape the future of health services. Service users are always at the centre of health care professionals' values, work ethics and roles. Moreover, service users centred interprofessional team collaboration is very important to deliver effective health services.

An fMRI study of joint action–varying levels of cooperation correlates with activity in control networks

PubMed Central

Chaminade, Thierry; Marchant, Jennifer L.; Kilner, James; Frith, Christopher D.

2012-01-01

As social agents, humans continually interact with the people around them. Here, motor cooperation was investigated using a paradigm in which pairs of participants, one being scanned with fMRI, jointly controlled a visually presented object with joystick movements. The object oscillated dynamically along two dimensions, color and width of gratings, corresponding to the two cardinal directions of joystick movements. While the overall control of each participant on the object was kept constant, the amount of cooperation along the two dimensions varied along four levels, from no (each participant controlled one dimension exclusively) to full (each participant controlled half of each dimension) cooperation. Increasing cooperation correlated with BOLD signal in the left parietal operculum and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), while decreasing cooperation correlated with activity in the right inferior frontal and superior temporal gyri, the intraparietal sulci and inferior temporal gyri bilaterally, and the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex. As joint performance improved with the level of cooperation, we assessed the brain responses correlating with behavior, and found that activity in most of the areas associated with levels of cooperation also correlated with the joint performance. The only brain area found exclusively in the negative correlation with cooperation was in the dorso medial frontal cortex, involved in monitoring action outcome. Given the cluster location and condition-related signal change, we propose that this region monitored actions to extract the level of cooperation in order to optimize the joint response. Our results, therefore, indicate that, in the current experimental paradigm involving joint control of a visually presented object with joystick movements, the level of cooperation affected brain networks involved in action control, but not mentalizing. PMID:22715326

Better Informing Decision Making with Multiple Outcomes Cost-Effectiveness Analysis under Uncertainty in Cost-Disutility Space

PubMed Central

McCaffrey, Nikki; Agar, Meera; Harlum, Janeane; Karnon, Jonathon; Currow, David; Eckermann, Simon

2015-01-01

Introduction Comparing multiple, diverse outcomes with cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) is important, yet challenging in areas like palliative care where domains are unamenable to integration with survival. Generic multi-attribute utility values exclude important domains and non-health outcomes, while partial analyses—where outcomes are considered separately, with their joint relationship under uncertainty ignored—lead to incorrect inference regarding preferred strategies. Objective The objective of this paper is to consider whether such decision making can be better informed with alternative presentation and summary measures, extending methods previously shown to have advantages in multiple strategy comparison. Methods Multiple outcomes CEA of a home-based palliative care model (PEACH) relative to usual care is undertaken in cost disutility (CDU) space and compared with analysis on the cost-effectiveness plane. Summary measures developed for comparing strategies across potential threshold values for multiple outcomes include: expected net loss (ENL) planes quantifying differences in expected net benefit; the ENL contour identifying preferred strategies minimising ENL and their expected value of perfect information; and cost-effectiveness acceptability planes showing probability of strategies minimising ENL. Results Conventional analysis suggests PEACH is cost-effective when the threshold value per additional day at home ( 1) exceeds $1,068 or dominated by usual care when only the proportion of home deaths is considered. In contrast, neither alternative dominate in CDU space where cost and outcomes are jointly considered, with the optimal strategy depending on threshold values. For example, PEACH minimises ENL when 1=$2,000 and 2=$2,000 (threshold value for dying at home), with a 51.6% chance of PEACH being cost-effective. Conclusion Comparison in CDU space and associated summary measures have distinct advantages to multiple domain comparisons, aiding transparent and robust joint comparison of costs and multiple effects under uncertainty across potential threshold values for effect, better informing net benefit assessment and related reimbursement and research decisions. PMID:25751629

The Genetic Basis of Upland/Lowland Ecotype Divergence in Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

PubMed Central

Milano, Elizabeth R.; Lowry, David B.; Juenger, Thomas E.

2016-01-01

The evolution of locally adapted ecotypes is a common phenomenon that generates diversity within plant species. However, we know surprisingly little about the genetic mechanisms underlying the locally adapted traits involved in ecotype formation. The genetic architecture underlying locally adapted traits dictates how an organism will respond to environmental selection pressures, and has major implications for evolutionary ecology, conservation, and crop breeding. To understand the genetic architecture underlying the divergence of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) ecotypes, we constructed a genetic mapping population through a four-way outbred cross between two northern upland and two southern lowland accessions. Trait segregation in this mapping population was largely consistent with multiple independent loci controlling the suite of traits that characterizes ecotype divergence. We assembled a joint linkage map using ddRADseq, and mapped quantitative trait loci (QTL) for traits that are divergent between ecotypes, including flowering time, plant size, physiological processes, and disease resistance. Overall, we found that most QTL had small to intermediate effects. While we identified colocalizing QTL for multiple traits, we did not find any large-effect QTL that clearly controlled multiple traits through pleiotropy or tight physical linkage. These results indicate that ecologically important traits in switchgrass have a complex genetic basis, and that similar loci may underlie divergence across the geographic range of the ecotypes. PMID:27613751

The effects of adding single-joint exercises to a multi-joint exercise resistance training program on upper body muscle strength and size in trained men.

PubMed

de França, Henrique Silvestre; Branco, Paulo Alexandre Nordeste; Guedes Junior, Dilmar Pinto; Gentil, Paulo; Steele, James; Teixeira, Cauê Vazquez La Scala

2015-08-01

The aim of this study was compare changes in upper body muscle strength and size in trained men performing resistance training (RT) programs involving multi-joint plus single-joint (MJ+SJ) or only multi-joint (MJ) exercises. Twenty young men with at least 2 years of experience in RT were randomized in 2 groups: MJ+SJ (n = 10; age, 27.7 ± 6.6 years) and MJ (n = 10; age, 29.4 ± 4.6 years). Both groups trained for 8 weeks following a linear periodization model. Measures of elbow flexors and extensors 1-repetition maximum (1RM), flexed arm circumference (FAC), and arm muscle circumference (AMC) were taken pre- and post-training period. Both groups significantly increased 1RM for elbow flexion (4.99% and 6.42% for MJ and MJ+SJ, respectively), extension (10.60% vs 9.79%, for MJ and MJ+SJ, respectively), FAC (1.72% vs 1.45%, for MJ and MJ+SJ, respectively), and AMC (1.33% vs 3.17% for MJ and MJ+SJ, respectively). Comparison between groups revealed no significant difference in any variable. In conclusion, 8 weeks of RT involving MJ or MJ+SJ resulted in similar alterations in muscle strength and size in trained participants. Therefore, the addition of SJ exercises to a RT program involving MJ exercises does not seem to promote additional benefits to trained men, suggesting MJ-only RT to be a time-efficient approach.

Embedded diagnostic, prognostic, and health management system and method for a humanoid robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barajas, Leandro G. (Inventor); Strawser, Philip A (Inventor); Sanders, Adam M (Inventor); Reiland, Matthew J (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A robotic system includes a humanoid robot with multiple compliant joints, each moveable using one or more of the actuators, and having sensors for measuring control and feedback data. A distributed controller controls the joints and other integrated system components over multiple high-speed communication networks. Diagnostic, prognostic, and health management (DPHM) modules are embedded within the robot at the various control levels. Each DPHM module measures, controls, and records DPHM data for the respective control level/connected device in a location that is accessible over the networks or via an external device. A method of controlling the robot includes embedding a plurality of the DPHM modules within multiple control levels of the distributed controller, using the DPHM modules to measure DPHM data within each of the control levels, and recording the DPHM data in a location that is accessible over at least one of the high-speed communication networks.

Physical therapy intervention for an adolescent with a knee flexion contracture and diagnosis of multiple pterygium syndrome.

PubMed

Bellamy, Sandra Gail; Gibbs, Karen; Lazaro, Rolando

2007-01-01

The purpose of this case report is to describe a course of physical therapy for a client with a rare genetic condition, multiple pterygium syndrome (MPS). MPS is a rare genetic disorder characterized by connective tissue webbing across multiple joints, dysmorphic facies, and various visceral and skeletal deformities. Before the patient commenced physical therapy, surgical amputation was recommended for the client's knee flexion contracture. The client's treatment plan included stretching, manual therapy, and resisted exercise. Long-term outcomes were decreased back and knee pain and improved range of motion, strength, and ambulation. Therapists using techniques to improve joint range of motion in clients with MPS should be aware that pterygia may include contractile tissue, nerves, and blood vessels and there may be underlying skeletal deformity or weakness in these areas. Children with MPS are at high risk of developing scoliosis and should be appropriately assessed in early childhood.

Failure modes of single and multi-bolted joint in the pultruded fiber reinforced polymer composite members

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, S. Y.; Yoo, J. H.; Kim, H. K.; Shin, K. Y.; Yoon, S. J.

2018-06-01

In this paper, we discussed the structural behavior of bolted lap-joint connections in pultruded FRP structural members. Especially, bolted connections in pultruded FRP members are investigated for their failure modes and strength. Specimens with single and multiple bolt-holes are tested in tension under bolt-loading conditions. All of the specimens are instrumented with strain gages and the load-strain responses are monitored. The failed specimens are examined for the cracks and failure patterns. The purpose of this paper is to predict the failure strength by using the ratio of the results obtained by the experiment and the finite element analysis. In the study, several tests are conducted to determine the mechanical properties of pultruded FRP materials before the main experiment. The results are used in the finite element analysis for single and multiple bolted lap-joint specimens. The results obtained by the experiment are compared with the results obtained by the finite element analysis.

Three-Dimensional Geometric Nonlinear Contact Stress Analysis of Riveted Joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shivakumar, Kunigal N.; Ramanujapuram, Vivek

1998-01-01

The problems associated with fatigue were brought into the forefront of research by the explosive decompression and structural failure of the Aloha Airlines Flight 243 in 1988. The structural failure of this airplane has been attributed to debonding and multiple cracking along the longitudinal lap splice riveted joint in the fuselage. This crash created what may be termed as a minor "Structural Integrity Revolution" in the commercial transport industry. Major steps have been taken by the manufacturers, operators and authorities to improve the structural airworthiness of the aging fleet of airplanes. Notwithstanding, this considerable effort there are still outstanding issues and concerns related to the formulation of Widespread Fatigue Damage which is believed to have been a contributing factor in the probable cause of the Aloha accident. The lesson from this accident was that Multiple-Site Damage (MSD) in "aging" aircraft can lead to extensive aircraft damage. A strong candidate in which MSD is highly probable to occur is the riveted lap joint.

Reading Aloud: On the Determinants of the Joint Effects of Stimulus Quality and Word Frequency

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Darcy; Besner, Derek

2017-01-01

There are multiple reports, in the context of the time taken to read aloud, that the joint effects of stimulus quality and word frequency (a) interact when only words appear in the list but (b) are additive when nonwords are intermixed with words (O'Malley & Besner, 2008). This triple interaction has been explained in terms of the idea that…

Classical system boundaries cannot be determined within quantum Darwinism

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fields, Chris

Multiple observers who interact with environmental encodings of the states of a macroscopic quantum system S as required by quantum Darwinism cannot demonstrate that they are jointly observing S without a joint a priori assumption of a classical boundary separating S from its environment E. Quantum Darwinism cannot, therefore, be regarded as providing a purely quantum-mechanical explanation of the "emergence" of classicality.

High-Level Vision and Planning Workshop Proceedings

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-08-01

Correspondence in Line Drawings of Multiple View-. In Proc. of 8th Intern. Joint Conf. on Artificial intellignece . 1983. [63] Tomiyasu, K. Tutorial...joint U.S.-Israeli workshop on artificial intelligence are provided in this Institute for Defense Analyses document. This document is based on a broad...participants is provided along with applicable references for individual papers. 14. SUBJECT TERMS 15. NUMBER OF PAGES Artificial Intelligence; Machine Vision

Is There a Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Fluoroscopy Time During Sacroiliac Joint Injection? A Multicenter Cohort Study.

PubMed

McCormick, Zachary L; Cushman, Daniel; Lee, David T; Scholten, Paul; Chu, Samuel K; Babu, Ashwin N; Caldwell, Mary; Ziegler, Craig; Ashraf, Humaira; Sundar, Bindu; Clark, Ryan; Gross, Claire; Cara, Jeffrey; McCormick, Kristen; Ross, Brendon; Smith, Clark C; Press, Joel; Smuck, Matthew; Walega, David R

2016-07-01

To determine the relationship between BMI and fluoroscopy time during intra-articular sacroiliac joint (SIJ) injections performed for a pain indication. Multicenter retrospective cohort study. Three academic, outpatient pain treatment centers. Patients who underwent fluoroscopy guided SIJ injection with encounter data regarding fluoroscopy time during the procedure and body mass index (BMI). Median and 25-75% Interquartile Range (IQR) fluoroscopy time. 459 SIJ injections (350 patients) were included in this study. Patients had a median age of 57 (IQR 44, 70) years, and 72% were female. The median BMI in the normal weight, overweight, and obese groups were 23 (IQR 21, 24), 27 (IQR 26, 29), and 35 (IQR 32, 40), respectively. There was no significant difference in the median fluoroscopy time recorded between these BMI classes (p = 0.45). First-time SIJ injection (p = 0.53), bilateral injection (p = 0.30), trainee involvement (p = 0.47), and new trainee involvement (trainee participation during the first 2 months of the academic year) (p = 0.85) were not associated with increased fluoroscopy time for any of the three BMI categories. Fluoroscopy time during sacroiliac joint injection is not increased in patients who are overweight or obese, regardless of whether a first-time sacroiliac joint injection was performed, bilateral injections were performed, a trainee was involved, or a new trainee was involved. © 2015 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

U.S. Army Deployment Injury Surveillance Summary, CY 2007 1 January 2007 - 31 December 2007

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-12-31

8217lim C>o ::::IJ:j Total Vertebral Column (VCI) Upper Lower Other, Unspecified InflammatIon and PaIn (Overuse) Joint IJoint Derangement...inflammation and pain (overuse) (51 percent), joint derangement (22 percent), and joint derangement with nerve pain (13 percent). • The spine/back (49 percent...13 percent). • The leading specific injury-related musculoskeletal conditions were inflammation and pain (overuse) involving the lumbar spine (16

Formation of a physiological reverse shoulder joint.

PubMed

Lerner, Markus; Turkmen, Ismail; Bernd, Ludger

2016-01-20

Congenital shoulder deformities are rarely seen in orthopaedic practice. Proximal humeral defects and glenoid hypoplasia have been reported separately in the literature. We present a case involving a 31-year-old woman having a cosmetic problem with her upper arm who was diagnosed with reverse shoulder joint deformity. This article presents the clinical, radiological and biomechanical findings of a physiological reverse shoulder joint. This is the first such reported case. 2016 BMJ Publishing Group Ltd.

Rupture history of the 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan, China, earthquake: Evaluation of separate and joint inversions of geodetic, teleseismic, and strong-motion data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hartzell, Stephen; Mendoza, Carlos; Ramírez-Guzmán, Leonardo; Zeng, Yuesha; Mooney, Walter

2013-01-01

An extensive data set of teleseismic and strong-motion waveforms and geodetic offsets is used to study the rupture history of the 2008 Wenchuan, China, earthquake. A linear multiple-time-window approach is used to parameterize the rupture. Because of the complexity of the Wenchuan faulting, three separate planes are used to represent the rupturing surfaces. This earthquake clearly demonstrates the strengths and limitations of geodetic, teleseismic, and strong-motion data sets. Geodetic data (static offsets) are valuable for determining the distribution of shallower slip but are insensitive to deeper faulting and reveal nothing about the timing of slip. Teleseismic data in the distance range 30°–90° generally involve no modeling difficulties because of simple ray paths and can distinguish shallow from deep slip. Teleseismic data, however, cannot distinguish between different slip scenarios when multiple fault planes are involved because steep takeoff angles lead to ambiguity in timing. Local strong-motion data, on the other hand, are ideal for determining the direction of rupture from directivity but can easily be over modeled with inaccurate Green’s functions, leading to misinterpretation of the slip distribution. We show that all three data sets are required to give an accurate description of the Wenchuan rupture. The moment is estimated to be approximately 1.0 × 1021 N · m with the slip characterized by multiple large patches with slips up to 10 m. Rupture initiates on the southern end of the Pengguan fault and proceeds unilaterally to the northeast. Upon reaching the cross-cutting Xiaoyudong fault, rupture of the adjacent Beichuan fault starts at this juncture and proceeds bilaterally to the northeast and southwest.

Thermal conductance measurements of bolted copper joints for SuperCDMS

DOE PAGES

Schmitt, R. L.; Tatkowski, G.; Ruschman, M.; ...

2015-04-28

Joint thermal conductance testing has been undertaken for bolted copper to copper connections from 60 mK to 26 K. This testing was performed to validate an initial design basis for the SuperCDMS experiment, where a dilution refrigerator will be coupled to a cryostat via multiple bolted connections. Copper used during testing was either gold plated or passivated with citric acid to prevent surface oxidation. Finally, the results we obtained are well fit by a power law regression of joint thermal conductance to temperature and match well with data collected during a literature review.

Gouty involvement of the patella and extensor mechanism of the knee mimicking aggressive neoplasm. A case series.

PubMed

Kester, Christopher; Wallace, Matthew T; Jelinek, James; Aboulafia, Albert

2018-06-01

Gout is a common inflammatory crystal deposition disease that occurs in many joints throughout the body. Active gout is most often associated with painful synovitis causing searing joint pains, but gout can also produce large masses of space-occupying deposits called tophi. Tophi are most frequently seen in juxta-articular locations with or without bony erosion and are often misdiagnosed as degenerative joint disease. Soft tissue deposits and tendon involvement are also known manifestations of gout, but can present with indeterminate and alarming findings on imaging. We present three cases of tophaceous gout mimicking aggressive neoplasms in the extensor mechanism of the knee. All cases presented as extensor tendon masses eroding into the patella, with imaging findings initially concerning for primary musculoskeletal malignancy.

[Function and structure of the Federal Joint Committee and the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care in consideration of patient involvement].

PubMed

Mühlbauer, V; Teupen, S

2014-01-01

The Federal Joint Committee and the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care have become important players in the German health care system, not only since the benefit assessment of pharmaceuticals and the Act on the Reform of the Market for Medicinal Products (AMNOG) were established. However, the manifold tasks and duties these institutions have besides the benefit assessment of pharmaceuticals is less known, just as the role the patient's representatives play. The function and structure of the Federal Joint Committee and the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care as well as their collaboration in consideration of patient involvement will be explained in this article. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Developing the fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm based on maximum entropy for multitarget tracking in a cluttered environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xiao; Li, Yaan; Yu, Jing; Li, Yuxing

2018-01-01

For fast and more effective implementation of tracking multiple targets in a cluttered environment, we propose a multiple targets tracking (MTT) algorithm called maximum entropy fuzzy c-means clustering joint probabilistic data association that combines fuzzy c-means clustering and the joint probabilistic data association (PDA) algorithm. The algorithm uses the membership value to express the probability of the target originating from measurement. The membership value is obtained through fuzzy c-means clustering objective function optimized by the maximum entropy principle. When considering the effect of the public measurement, we use a correction factor to adjust the association probability matrix to estimate the state of the target. As this algorithm avoids confirmation matrix splitting, it can solve the high computational load problem of the joint PDA algorithm. The results of simulations and analysis conducted for tracking neighbor parallel targets and cross targets in a different density cluttered environment show that the proposed algorithm can realize MTT quickly and efficiently in a cluttered environment. Further, the performance of the proposed algorithm remains constant with increasing process noise variance. The proposed algorithm has the advantages of efficiency and low computational load, which can ensure optimum performance when tracking multiple targets in a dense cluttered environment.

META-ANALYSIS OF GENOME-WIDE STUDIES IDENTIFIES WNT16 AND ESR1 SNPS ASSOCIATED WITH BONE MINERAL DENSITY IN PREMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

PubMed Central

Koller, Daniel L.; Zheng, Hou-Feng; Karasik, David; Yerges-Armstrong, Laura; Liu, Ching-Ti; McGuigan, Fiona; Kemp, John P.; Giroux, Sylvie; Lai, Dongbing; Edenberg, Howard J.; Peacock, Munro; Czerwinski, Stefan A.; Choh, Audrey C.; McMahon, George; St Pourcain, Beate; Timpson, Nicholas J.; Lawlor, Debbie A; Evans, David M; Towne, Bradford; Blangero, John; Carless, Melanie A.; Kammerer, Candace; Goltzman, David; Kovacs, Christopher S.; Prior, Jerilynn C.; Spector, Tim D.; Rousseau, Francois; Tobias, Jon H.; Akesson, Kristina; Econs, Michael J.; Mitchell, Braxton D.; Richards, J. Brent; Kiel, Douglas P.; Foroud, Tatiana

2013-01-01

Previous genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified common variants in genes associated with variation in bone mineral density (BMD), although most have been carried out in combined samples of older women and men. Meta-analyses of these results have identified numerous SNPs of modest effect at genome-wide significance levels in genes involved in both bone formation and resorption, as well as other pathways. We performed a meta-analysis restricted to premenopausal white women from four cohorts (n= 4,061 women, ages 20 to 45) to identify genes influencing peak bone mass at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Following imputation, age- and weight-adjusted BMD values were tested for association with each SNP. Association of a SNP in the WNT16 gene (rs3801387; p=1.7 × 10−9) and multiple SNPs in the ESR1/C6orf97 (rs4870044; p=1.3 × 10−8) achieved genome-wide significance levels for lumbar spine BMD. These SNPs, along with others demonstrating suggestive evidence of association, were then tested for association in seven Replication cohorts that included premenopausal women of European, Hispanic-American, and African-American descent (combined n=5,597 for femoral neck; 4,744 for lumbar spine). When the data from the Discovery and Replication cohorts were analyzed jointly, the evidence was more significant (WNT16 joint p=1.3 × 10−11; ESR1/C6orf97 joint p= 1.4 × 10−10). Multiple independent association signals were observed with spine BMD at the ESR1 region after conditioning on the primary signal. Analyses of femoral neck BMD also supported association with SNPs in WNT16 and ESR1/C6orf97 (p< 1 × 10−5). Our results confirm that several of the genes contributing to BMD variation across a broad age range in both sexes have effects of similar magnitude on BMD of the spine in premenopausal women. These data support the hypothesis that variants in these genes of known skeletal function also affect BMD during the premenopausal period. PMID:23074152

Self-Referenced Processing, Neurodevelopment and Joint Attention in Autism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mundy, Peter; Gwaltney, Mary; Henderson, Heather

2010-01-01

This article describes a parallel and distributed processing model (PDPM) of joint attention, self-referenced processing and autism. According to this model, autism involves early impairments in the capacity for rapid, integrated processing of self-referenced (proprioceptive and interoceptive) and other-referenced (exteroceptive) information.…

Information Retrieval (SPIRES) and Library Automation (BALLOTS) at Stanford University.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferguson, Douglas, Ed.

At Stanford University, two major projects have been involved jointly in library automation and information retrieval since 1968: BALLOTS (Bibliographic Automation of Large Library Operations) and SPIRES (Stanford Physics Information Retrieval System). In early 1969, two prototype applications were activated using the jointly developed systems…

76 FR 42573 - Radio Broadcasting Services; Oklahoma and Texas

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-19

...: Final rule; application for review. SUMMARY: This document denies the Application for Review filed by... Texas Licenses, L.P. (``Joint Petitioners'') of the dismissal of a second alternative proposal to their...). In response to the NPRM, the Joint Petitioners filed a mutually exclusive Counterproposal involving...

Development of macromolecular prodrug for rheumatoid arthritis☆

PubMed Central

Yuan, Fang; Quan, Ling-dong; Cui, Liao; Goldring, Steven R.; Wang, Dong

2012-01-01

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that is considered to be one of the major public health problems worldwide. The development of therapies that target tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and co-stimulatory pathways that regulate the immune system have revolutionized the care of patients with RA. Despite these advances, many patients continue to experience symptomatic and functional impairment. To address this issue, more recent therapies that have been developed are designed to target intracellular signaling pathways involved in immunoregulation. Though this approach has been encouraging, there have been major challenges with respect to off-target organ side effects and systemic toxicities related to the widespread distribution of these signaling pathways in multiple cell types and tissues. These limitations have led to an increasing interest in the development of strategies for the macromolecularization of anti-rheumatic drugs, which could target them to the inflamed joints. This approach enhances the efficacy of the therapeutic agent with respect to synovial inflammation, while markedly reducing non-target organ adverse side effects. In this manuscript, we provide a comprehensive overview of the rational design and optimization of macromolecular prodrugs for treatment of RA. The superior and the sustained efficacy of the prodrug may be partially attributed to their Extravasation through Leaky Vasculature and subsequent Inflammatory cell-mediated Sequestration (ELVIS) in the arthritic joints. This biologic process provides a plausible mechanism, by which macromolecular prodrugs preferentially target arthritic joints and illustrates the potential benefits of applying this therapeutic strategy to the treatment of other inflammatory diseases. PMID:22433784

Determination of Pain Phenotypes in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Latent Class Analysis using Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative Study

PubMed Central

Kittelson, Andrew J.; Stevens-Lapsley, Jennifer E.; Schmiege, Sarah J.

2017-01-01

Objective Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a broadly applied diagnosis that may encompass multiple subtypes of pain. The purpose of this study was to identify phenotypes of knee OA, using measures from the following pain-related domains: 1) knee OA pathology, 2) psychological distress, and 3) altered pain neurophysiology. Methods Data were selected from a total of 3494 participants at Visit #6 of the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI) study. Latent Class Analysis was applied to the following variables: radiographic OA severity, quadriceps strength, Body Mass Index (BMI), Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression subscale (CES-D), Coping Strategies Questionnaire-Catastrophizing subscale (CSQ-Cat), number of bodily pain sites, and knee joint tenderness at 4 sites. Resulting classes were compared on the following demographic and clinical factors: age, sex, pain severity, disability, walking speed, and use of arthritis-related healthcare. Results A four-class model was identified. Class 1 (4% of the study population) had higher CCI scores. Class 2 (24%) had higher knee joint sensitivity. Class 3 (10%) had greater psychological distress. Class 4 (62%) had lesser radiographic OA, little psychological involvement, greater strength, and less pain sensitivity. Additionally, Class 1 was the oldest, on average. Class 4 was the youngest, had the lowest disability, and least pain. Class 3 had the worst disability and most pain. Conclusions Four distinct pain phenotypes of knee OA were identified. Psychological factors, comorbidity status, and joint sensitivity appear to be important in defining phenotypes of knee OA-related pain. PMID:26414884

Antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery: advisory statement 2008.

PubMed

Wright, Tina I; Baddour, Larry M; Berbari, Elie F; Roenigk, Randall K; Phillips, P Kim; Jacobs, M Amanda; Otley, Clark C

2008-09-01

Antibiotic prophylaxis is an important component of dermatologic surgery, and recommendations in this area should reflect the updated 2007 guidelines of the American Heart Association, the American Dental Association with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons guidelines, and recent prospective studies on surgical site infection. To provide an update on the indications for antibiotic prophylaxis in dermatologic surgery for the prevention of infective endocarditis, hematogenous total joint infection, and surgical site infection. A literature review was performed, expert consensus was obtained, and updated recommendations were created, consistent with the most current authoritative guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American Dental Association with the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. For patients with high-risk cardiac conditions, and a defined group of patients with prosthetic joints at high risk for hematogenous total joint infection, prophylactic antibiotics are recommended when the surgical site is infected or when the procedure involves breach of the oral mucosa. For the prevention of surgical site infections, antibiotics may be indicated for procedures on the lower extremities or groin, for wedge excisions of the lip and ear, skin flaps on the nose, skin grafts, and for patients with extensive inflammatory skin disease. These recommendations are not based on multiple, large-scale, prospective trials. There is a strong shift away from administration of prophylactic antibiotics in many dermatologic surgery settings, based on updated authoritative guidelines. These recommendations provide guidance to comply with the most current guidelines, modified to address dermatology-specific considerations. Managing physicians may utilize these guidelines while individualizing their approach based on all clinical considerations.

Determination of Pain Phenotypes in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Latent Class Analysis Using Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

PubMed

Kittelson, Andrew J; Stevens-Lapsley, Jennifer E; Schmiege, Sarah J

2016-05-01

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a broadly applied diagnosis that may describe multiple subtypes of pain. The purpose of this study was to identify phenotypes of knee OA, using measures from the following pain-related domains: 1) knee OA pathology, 2) psychological distress, and 3) altered pain neurophysiology. Data were selected from a total of 3,494 participants at visit 6 of the Osteoarthritis Initiative study. Latent class analysis was applied to the following variables: radiographic OA severity, quadriceps strength, body mass index, the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Coping Strategies Questionnaire-Catastrophizing subscale, number of bodily pain sites, and knee joint tenderness at 4 sites. The resulting classes were compared on the following demographic and clinical factors: age, sex, pain severity, disability, walking speed, and use of arthritis-related health care. A 4-class model was identified. Class 1 (4% of the study population) had higher CCI scores. Class 2 (24%) had higher knee joint sensitivity. Class 3 (10%) had greater psychological distress. Class 4 (62%) had lesser radiographic OA, little psychological involvement, greater strength, and less pain sensitivity. Additionally, class 1 was the oldest, on average. Class 4 was the youngest, had the lowest disability, and least pain. Class 3 had the worst disability and most pain. Four distinct pain phenotypes of knee OA were identified. Psychological factors, comorbidity status, and joint sensitivity appear to be important in defining phenotypes of knee OA-related pain. © 2016, American College of Rheumatology.

Atlantoaxial joint distraction for treatment of basilar invagination secondary to rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Goel, A; Pareikh, S; Sharma, P

2005-06-01

We present our experience of treating two cases of rheumatoid arthritis involving the craniovertebral junction and having marked basilar invagination by an alternative treatment method. In both the cases, the facets were osteoporotic and were not suitable for screw implantation. The patients were 66 and 72 years of age and both patients were females. Both the patients presented with complaints of progressively increasing spastic quadriparesis. Surgery involved attempts to reduce the basilar invagination and restore the height of the 'collapsed' lateral mass by manual distraction of the facets of the atlas and axis and forced impaction of titanium spacers in the joint in addition to bone graft harvested from the iliac crest. The procedure also provided stabilization of the region. No other fixation procedure involving wires, screws, plate and rods was carried out simultaneously. Following surgery both the patients showed symptomatic improvement and partial restoration of craniovertebral alignments. Follow-up is of 2 and 24 months. Distraction of the facets of atlas and axis and impaction of metal implant and bone graft in the facet joint can assist in reduction of basilar invagination and fixation of the region in selected cases of rheumatoid arthritis involving the craniovertebral junction.

Sacroiliac joint involvement in systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Arslan Tas, Didem; Yıldız, Fatih; Sakallı, Hakan; Kelle, Bayram; Ballı, Tuğsan; Erken, Eren

2015-01-01

One of the major problems for systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients is suggested to be articular involvement. Mostly involved joints in SSc were reported as wrist, carpometacarpal-interphalangeal, foot, knee, hip and shoulder; however, there has been little knowledge on the sacroiliac joint. Our aim was to evaluate sacroiliac joint involvement in SSc. Fifty-seven SSc patients, 54 rheumatoid arthritis patients and 64 healthy subjects were included. Anteroposterior pelvic radiographs were obtained and graded twice by three blinded rheumatologists. One competent radiologist has re-evaluated the X-ray results. The ASAS (Assessment of Spondylo Arthritis International Society) scoring method was applied for grading sacroiliac involvement. Inflammatory back pain was also evaluated. Other clinical and laboratory data were collected as proposed by the European Study Group. In the SSc group sacroiliitis was found in 13 patients (23%) and was significantly different from RA patients (two patients, 4%), P = 0.003; and the healthy control group (one participant, 2%), P < 0.001. The frequency of inflammatory back pain in SSc patients with sacroiliitis (8/13 patients, 62%) was significantly higher in SSc patients without sacroiliitis (4/44 patients, 9%), P < 0.001. The SSc patients with sacroiliitis and with inflammatory back pain (8/57 patients, 14%) were regarded as axial spondyloarthritis overlap. Male gender, diffuse subtype, inflammatory back pain and high C-reactive protein levels (odds ratio: 1.069, 1.059, 1.059 and 3.698, respectively) were found to be the significant risk factors for sacroiliitis. We suggest that, sacroiliitis may be a concern to be considered in SSc practice. © 2014 Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.

LOGISMOS—Layered Optimal Graph Image Segmentation of Multiple Objects and Surfaces: Cartilage Segmentation in the Knee Joint

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiangmin; Williams, Rachel; Wu, Xiaodong; Anderson, Donald D.; Sonka, Milan

2011-01-01

A novel method for simultaneous segmentation of multiple interacting surfaces belonging to multiple interacting objects, called LOGISMOS (layered optimal graph image segmentation of multiple objects and surfaces), is reported. The approach is based on the algorithmic incorporation of multiple spatial inter-relationships in a single n-dimensional graph, followed by graph optimization that yields a globally optimal solution. The LOGISMOS method’s utility and performance are demonstrated on a bone and cartilage segmentation task in the human knee joint. Although trained on only a relatively small number of nine example images, this system achieved good performance. Judged by dice similarity coefficients (DSC) using a leave-one-out test, DSC values of 0.84 ± 0.04, 0.80 ± 0.04 and 0.80 ± 0.04 were obtained for the femoral, tibial, and patellar cartilage regions, respectively. These are excellent DSC values, considering the narrow-sheet character of the cartilage regions. Similarly, low signed mean cartilage thickness errors were obtained when compared to a manually-traced independent standard in 60 randomly selected 3-D MR image datasets from the Osteoarthritis Initiative database—0.11 ± 0.24, 0.05 ± 0.23, and 0.03 ± 0.17 mm for the femoral, tibial, and patellar cartilage thickness, respectively. The average signed surface positioning errors for the six detected surfaces ranged from 0.04 ± 0.12 mm to 0.16 ± 0.22 mm. The reported LOGISMOS framework provides robust and accurate segmentation of the knee joint bone and cartilage surfaces of the femur, tibia, and patella. As a general segmentation tool, the developed framework can be applied to a broad range of multiobject multisurface segmentation problems. PMID:20643602

An integrative model of auditory phantom perception: tinnitus as a unified percept of interacting separable subnetworks.

PubMed

De Ridder, Dirk; Vanneste, Sven; Weisz, Nathan; Londero, Alain; Schlee, Winnie; Elgoyhen, Ana Belen; Langguth, Berthold

2014-07-01

Tinnitus is a considered to be an auditory phantom phenomenon, a persistent conscious percept of a salient memory trace, externally attributed, in the absence of a sound source. It is perceived as a phenomenological unified coherent percept, binding multiple separable clinical characteristics, such as its loudness, the sidedness, the type (pure tone, noise), the associated distress and so on. A theoretical pathophysiological framework capable of explaining all these aspects in one model is highly needed. The model must incorporate both the deafferentation based neurophysiological models and the dysfunctional noise canceling model, and propose a 'tinnitus core' subnetwork. The tinnitus core can be defined as the minimal set of brain areas that needs to be jointly activated (=subnetwork) for tinnitus to be consciously perceived, devoid of its affective components. The brain areas involved in the other separable characteristics of tinnitus can be retrieved by studies on spontaneous resting state magnetic and electrical activity in people with tinnitus, evaluated for the specific aspect investigated and controlled for other factors. By combining these functional imaging studies with neuromodulation techniques some of the correlations are turned into causal relationships. Thereof, a heuristic pathophysiological framework is constructed, integrating the tinnitus perceptual core with the other tinnitus related aspects. This phenomenological unified percept of tinnitus can be considered an emergent property of multiple, parallel, dynamically changing and partially overlapping subnetworks, each with a specific spontaneous oscillatory pattern and functional connectivity signature. Communication between these different subnetworks is proposed to occur at hubs, brain areas that are involved in multiple subnetworks simultaneously. These hubs can take part in each separable subnetwork at different frequencies. Communication between the subnetworks is proposed to occur at discrete oscillatory frequencies. As such, the brain uses multiple nonspecific networks in parallel, each with their own oscillatory signature, that adapt to the context to construct a unified percept possibly by synchronized activation integrated at hubs at discrete oscillatory frequencies. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Multiple Phenotype Association Tests Using Summary Statistics in Genome-Wide Association Studies

PubMed Central

Liu, Zhonghua; Lin, Xihong

2017-01-01

Summary We study in this paper jointly testing the associations of a genetic variant with correlated multiple phenotypes using the summary statistics of individual phenotype analysis from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWASs). We estimated the between-phenotype correlation matrix using the summary statistics of individual phenotype GWAS analyses, and developed genetic association tests for multiple phenotypes by accounting for between-phenotype correlation without the need to access individual-level data. Since genetic variants often affect multiple phenotypes differently across the genome and the between-phenotype correlation can be arbitrary, we proposed robust and powerful multiple phenotype testing procedures by jointly testing a common mean and a variance component in linear mixed models for summary statistics. We computed the p-values of the proposed tests analytically. This computational advantage makes our methods practically appealing in large-scale GWASs. We performed simulation studies to show that the proposed tests maintained correct type I error rates, and to compare their powers in various settings with the existing methods. We applied the proposed tests to a GWAS Global Lipids Genetics Consortium summary statistics data set and identified additional genetic variants that were missed by the original single-trait analysis. PMID:28653391

Multiple phenotype association tests using summary statistics in genome-wide association studies.

PubMed

Liu, Zhonghua; Lin, Xihong

2018-03-01

We study in this article jointly testing the associations of a genetic variant with correlated multiple phenotypes using the summary statistics of individual phenotype analysis from Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWASs). We estimated the between-phenotype correlation matrix using the summary statistics of individual phenotype GWAS analyses, and developed genetic association tests for multiple phenotypes by accounting for between-phenotype correlation without the need to access individual-level data. Since genetic variants often affect multiple phenotypes differently across the genome and the between-phenotype correlation can be arbitrary, we proposed robust and powerful multiple phenotype testing procedures by jointly testing a common mean and a variance component in linear mixed models for summary statistics. We computed the p-values of the proposed tests analytically. This computational advantage makes our methods practically appealing in large-scale GWASs. We performed simulation studies to show that the proposed tests maintained correct type I error rates, and to compare their powers in various settings with the existing methods. We applied the proposed tests to a GWAS Global Lipids Genetics Consortium summary statistics data set and identified additional genetic variants that were missed by the original single-trait analysis. © 2017, The International Biometric Society.

Survival in extreme environment by "preserve-expand-specialize" strategy: lessons from comparative genomics of an anhydrobiotic midge.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gusev, Oleg; Sugimoto, Manabu; Novikova, Nataliya; Sychev, Vladimir; Okuda, Takashi; Kikawada, Takahiro

2012-07-01

Anhydrobiotic chironomid larvae of Polypedilum vanderplanki (Diptera) can withstand prolonged complete desiccation as well as other external stresses including ionizing radiation. Recent experiments showed that this insect is able to survive long-tern exposure to real outer space. At the same time, we found that dehydration causes alterations in chromatin structure and a severe fragmentation of nuclear DNA in the cells of the larvae despite successful anhydrobiosis. Analysis of several remote populations of the chironomid in Africa that desiccation-related DNA damage might be a driving genetic force for rapid radiation within the species. First results of ongoing genome project suggest that origin and evolution of anhydrobiosis in this single insect species related to rapid duplication of the genes, coding late embryogenesis abundant proteins (LEA) and other molecular agents directly involved in desiccation resistance in the cells. Analysis of genome-wide mRNA expression profiles in the larvae subjected to desiccation shows that joint-activity of large multiple-genes coding regions in the genome involved in control of anhydrobiosis-related molecular adaptations in the chironomid.

Effect of total shoulder replacements on airport security screening in the post-9/11 era.

PubMed

Dines, Joshua S; Elkousy, Hussein; Edwards, T Bradley; Gartsman, Gary M; Dines, David M

2007-01-01

There are few reports in the literature on the effect of orthopaedic implants on airport security devices and none on shoulder arthroplasty implants after September 11, 2001. Since 9/11, airport security screening devices have become more sensitive in response to the increasing threat of terrorism. Often, patients with joint implants activate the metal detectors and are subsequently subjected to more intensive screening. We assess the effects of shoulder joint implants on different airport security devices and what effect the results had on passenger travel. In this study, 154 patients who had previously undergone shoulder replacement responded to a questionnaire regarding their travel experiences after 9/11. Of these, 85 had flown during the time period studied (47 men and 38 women; mean age, 67.8 years); 79 had traveled domestically (mean, 7 flights), and 22 had taken international flights (mean, 6.1 flights). The questionnaire addressed each patient's height/weight, the number of flight segments flown (domestic and international), the number of times that a patient activated the doorway alarm/wand alarm, and the effect of a card stating that the patient had joint replacement (when applicable). On average, patients with shoulder replacement traveling domestically activated the security gate 52% of the time. The average for international travel was 42%. Of the patients who flew both domestically and internationally, there was a high correlation of activation (R = 0.54). Twenty-six patients had multiple joint implants (mean, 2.8). Multiple joint implants caused increased alarm activation (P < .001). All patients reported that their travel was delayed during the instances of security activation. There was no statistically significant effect of body mass index, height, weight, age, or sex on security device activation. Of the patients, 71% were told by their doctor that the shoulder replacement may activate security devices. Of these, 46 were given a card by their doctor indicating the presence of a total joint implant. In only 30% of the security encounters of these patients did the card expedite the screening process. This is the largest study on the effects of joint implants, and shoulder implants in particular, on airport security devices and the only one that has analyzed the data of post-9/11 travel. Patients traveling after total shoulder replacement are often delayed and subjected to more rigorous screening when traveling, especially in the post-9/11 environment. Doctors often warn their patients of potential problems and may try to avert this by giving them cards documenting the presence of a joint implant. The acceptance of these cards is sporadic. This study raises the importance of notifying patients of potential security delays, especially those with multiple joint implants, as they may directly affect travel plans. In addition, these patients may benefit from the establishment of an international joint registry.

Pulsed Laser Beam Welding of Pd43Cu27Ni10P20 Bulk Metallic Glass.

PubMed

Shao, Ling; Datye, Amit; Huang, Jiankang; Ketkaew, Jittisa; Woo Sohn, Sung; Zhao, Shaofan; Wu, Sujun; Zhang, Yuming; Schwarz, Udo D; Schroers, Jan

2017-08-11

We used pulsed laser beam welding method to join Pd 43 Cu 27 Ni 10 P 20 (at.%) bulk metallic glass and characterized the properties of the joint. Fusion zone and heat-affected zone in the weld joint can be maintained completely amorphous as confirmed by X-ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry. No visible defects were observed in the weld joint. Nanoindentation and bend tests were carried out to determine the mechanical properties of the weld joint. Fusion zone and heat-affected zone exhibit very similar elastic moduli and hardness when compared to the base material, and the weld joint shows high ductility in bending which is accomplished through the operation of multiple shear bands. Our results reveal that pulsed laser beam welding under appropriate processing parameters provides a practical viable method to join bulk metallic glasses.

Grinding assembly, grinding apparatus, weld joint defect repair system, and methods

DOEpatents

Larsen, Eric D.; Watkins, Arthur D.; Bitsoi, Rodney J.; Pace, David P.

2005-09-27

A grinding assembly for grinding a weld joint of a workpiece includes a grinder apparatus, a grinder apparatus includes a grinding wheel configured to grind the weld joint, a member configured to receive the grinding wheel, the member being configured to be removably attached to the grinder apparatus, and a sensor assembly configured to detect a contact between the grinding wheel and the workpiece. The grinding assembly also includes a processing circuitry in communication with the grinder apparatus and configured to control operations of the grinder apparatus, the processing circuitry configured to receive weld defect information of the weld joint from an inspection assembly to create a contour grinding profile to grind the weld joint in a predetermined shape based on the received weld defect information, and a manipulator having an end configured to carry the grinder apparatus, the manipulator further configured to operate in multiple dimensions.

Mixed-effects location and scale Tobit joint models for heterogeneous longitudinal data with skewness, detection limits, and measurement errors.

PubMed

Lu, Tao

2017-01-01

The joint modeling of mean and variance for longitudinal data is an active research area. This type of model has the advantage of accounting for heteroscedasticity commonly observed in between and within subject variations. Most of researches focus on improving the estimating efficiency but ignore many data features frequently encountered in practice. In this article, we develop a mixed-effects location scale joint model that concurrently accounts for longitudinal data with multiple features. Specifically, our joint model handles heterogeneity, skewness, limit of detection, measurement errors in covariates which are typically observed in the collection of longitudinal data from many studies. We employ a Bayesian approach for making inference on the joint model. The proposed model and method are applied to an AIDS study. Simulation studies are performed to assess the performance of the proposed method. Alternative models under different conditions are compared.

"Bill is now singing": joint engagement and the emergence of social communication of three young children with autism.

PubMed

Vaiouli, Potheini; Grimmet, Kharon; Ruich, Lawrence J

2015-01-01

Young children with autism spectrum disorder meet significant challenges in joint attention skills and in social communication. A child-centered, improvisational, music therapy intervention model was implemented to promote engagement in three young children with autism in a kindergarten classroom. A multiple baseline design compared the children's performance through three phases of intervention: focus on faces, response to joint attention, and initiation of joint attention. A complimentary qualitative analysis of teacher and parent experiences allowed for an in-depth understanding of the role of social environment in supporting emerging social communication skills among three children. As all children showed improvement in joint attention and actions of social engagement, this study bears evidence on the potential of music therapy as a promising intervention for promoting social skills of young children with autism spectrum disorder. © The Author(s) 2013.

Effects of neoprene wrist/hand splints on handwriting for students with joint hypermobility syndrome: a single system design study.

PubMed

Frohlich, Lauren; Wesley, Alison; Wallen, Margaret; Bundy, Anita

2012-08-01

Pain associated with hypermobility of wrist and hand joints can contribute to decreased handwriting output. This study examined the effectiveness of a neoprene wrist/hand splint in reducing pain and increasing handwriting speed and endurance for students with joint hypermobility syndrome. Multiple baseline, single system design (SSD) methodology was used. Four ninth grade students with handwriting difficulties because of joint hypermobility syndrome participated in this study. Visual and statistical (two standard deviation band method) analyses indicated a significant decrease in handwriting speed when using the splint for three out of four participants. No significant change in pain or endurance was noted during intervention. There was a significant decrease in pain following withdrawal of the splint for three participants. Evidence from this study does not support use of this particular splint for decreasing pain and increasing handwriting speed and endurance for ninth grade students with joint hypermobility syndrome.

On the generation of horizontal shear waves by underground explosions in jointed rocks

DOE PAGES

Vorobiev, Oleg; Ezzedine, Souheil; Antoun, Tarabay; ...

2015-02-04

This paper describes computational studies of non-spherical ground motions generated by spherical explosions in a heavily jointed granite formation. Various factors affecting the shear wave generation are considered, including joint spacing, orientation, persistence and properties. Simulations are performed both in 2D for a single joint set to elucidate the basic response mechanisms, and in 3D for multiple joint sets to realistically represent in situ conditions in a realistic geologic setting. The joints are modeled explicitly using both contact elements and weakness planes in the material. Simulations are performed both deterministically and stochastically to quantify the effects of geologic uncertainties onmore » near field ground motions. The mechanical properties of the rock and the joints as well as the joint spacing and orientation are taken from experimental test data and geophysical logs corresponding to the Climax Stock granitic outcrop, which is the geologic setting of the Source Physics Experiment (SPE). Agreement between simulation results and near field wave motion data from SPE enables newfound understanding of the origin and extent of non-spherical motions associated with underground explosions in fractured geologic media.« less

A Comprehensive Histological Assessment of Osteoarthritis Lesions in Mice

PubMed Central

McNulty, Margaret A.; Loeser, Richard F.; Davey, Cynthia; Callahan, Michael F.; Ferguson, Cristin M.; Carlson, Cathy S.

2011-01-01

Objective: Accurate histological assessment of osteoarthritis (OA) is critical in studies evaluating the effects of interventions on disease severity. The purpose of the present study was to develop a histological grading scheme that comprehensively and quantitatively assesses changes in multiple tissues that are associated with OA of the stifle joint in mice. Design: Two representative midcoronal sections from 158 stifle joints, including naturally occurring and surgically induced OA, were stained with H&E and Safranin-O stains. All slides were evaluated to characterize the changes present. A grading scheme that includes both measurements and semiquantitative scores was developed, and principal components analysis (PCA) was applied to the resulting data from the medial tibial plateaus. A subset of 30 tibial plateaus representing a wide range of severity was then evaluated by 4 observers. Reliability of the results was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: Five factors were retained by PCA, accounting for 74% of the total variance. Interobserver and intraobserver reproducibilities for evaluations of articular cartilage and subchondral bone were acceptable. The articular cartilage integrity and chondrocyte viability factor scores were able to distinguish severe OA from normal, minimal, mild, and moderate disease. Conclusion: This newly developed grading scheme and resulting factors characterize a range of joint changes in mouse stifle joints that are associated with OA. Overall, the newly developed scheme is reliable and reproducible, characterizes changes in multiple tissues, and provides comprehensive information regarding a specific site in the stifle joint. PMID:26069594

The Association of Health Risk Behaviors and Training-Related Injury Among U.S. Army Basic Trainees

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-04-01

717.7 Chondromalacia Of Patella; Degeneration of articular cartilage of patella 17-MAY-2003 1 719.46 Pain In Joint Involving Lower Leg 19-MAY-2003 I...Thera 7 I Example of diagnoses progression from pain to chondromalacia 18-APR-2003 I 0 1 719.46 Pain In Joint Involving Lower Leg 30-APR-2003· I 717.7... Chondromalacia of Patella; Degeneration of cartilage of patella 30-APR-2003 I V57.1 Other Physical Therapy 28 USACHPPM General Medical Service Study

The Joint NASA/Goddard-University of Maryland Research Program in Charged Particle and High Energy Photon Detector Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

Having recognized at an early stage the critical importance of maintaining detector capabilities which utilize state of the art techniques, a joint program was formulated. This program has involved coordination of a broad range of efforts and activities including joint experiments, collaboration in theoretical studies, instrument design, calibrations, and data analysis. Summaries of the progress made to date are presented. A representative bibliography is also included.

[Juvenile rheumatoid diseases: Endoprosthetic care of destroyed hip joints].

PubMed

Rehart, S; Henniger, M

2015-07-01

Patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) often suffer from involvement of the hip joints, with joint destruction and related functional limitations, making hip replacement necessary. To discover what special features are to be expected in patients with JIA and hip arthroplasty and what impact they have on surgical indication, choice of implant, and technique. Selective literature review and evaluation of our patient population. Compared with osteoarthritis patients, JIA patients are on average much younger at the time of hip replacement. Owing to the onset of the disease in childhood or adolescence and the frequent glucocorticoid therapy, growth disorders or abnormal anatomical findings are common in these patients. Bone density is often reduced at an early age. The perioperative management of medication has to be planned. Special implants for patients with rheumatic diseases do not exist, but the above peculiarities of this group of patients should be considered for surgical procedure and choice of implant and material. Overall, the results of hip arthroplasty in juvenile rheumatic diseases, in terms of pain relief and functional improvement, are good. The limited life of the arthroplasty is problematic. By relieving pain, improvement of the range of motion and activity level very high patient satisfaction is usually achieved by hip arthroplasty in JIA patients. In the case of involvement of the contralateral hip or the ipsilateral knee joint it may be useful to perform a simultaneous, single-stage joint replacement of both joints.

The Joint Convention - Its Structure, the Articles and its Administration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Metcalf, P.; Louvat, D.

The objective of the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management (The Joint Convention) is to achieve a high level of safety worldwide in the management of spent nuclear and fuel and radioactive waste. [1] It is an incentive convention designed to encourage and assist countries to achieve the objective. Contracting Parties to the Joint Convention are required to compile and submit a national report on how they meet the articles of the Joint Convention. The reports are peer reviewed by other Contracting Parties to the Joint Convention and thenmore » countries have to defend the report at a review meeting of all the Contracting Parties. The process entails both a self appraisal in compiling the report and independent international peer review. Summaries are compiled of the various reviews and these are presented in plenary, with a view to identifying generic issues and areas in which countries are improving safety or have identified for further development. The process also presents an opportunity for countries involved to benchmark their national spent fuel and radioactive waste safety programmes against prevailing international practice. The paper elaborates the detailed elements involved and discusses the experience from the first review meeting of Contracting Parties, and issues envisaged for consideration at the second review meeting scheduled for May 2006. (authors)« less

Coasts under multiple stresses: lessons learned from ARSTISTICC's eight coastal study sites.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vanderlinden, J. P.; Berman, M.; Chouinard, O.; Kane, A.; Nikulkina, I.; Ragueneau, O.; Thomson, T. K.; Baztan, J.; Cordier, M.; Curry, T.; Da Cunha, C.; Gaye, N.; Huctin, J. M.; Kennedy, G.; Kofinas, G.; Maze, C.; Quensiere, J.; Raimonet, M.; Remvikos, Y.; Seck, A.; Surette, C.; Zhu, Z.

2016-12-01

The "Adaptation Research a Transdisciplinary community and policy centered approach" (ARTisticc) project has as goal to apply innovative standardized transdisciplinary art and science integrative approaches to foster robust, socially, culturally and scientifically, community centered adaptation to climate change. Fieldwork has been implemented in coastal communities in France (Brest, Britany), Senegal (Mbour, Petite Côte), India (Kochi, Kerala and Kanyakumari, Tamil nadu), Russia (Tiksi, Yakutia), Greenland (Uummannaq), the United States (Wainwright, Alaska), and Canada (Cocagne and Grande Digue, New Bunswick). It involved transdisciplinary teams of scientists, community members and artists. Preliminary results of the project will be presented. These pertain to two dimensions: a substantive dimension, i.e. better understanding of the role of knowledge and knowledge systems in adaptation, and a procedural dimension, i.e. better understanding of the implementation of transdisciplinary approaches to adaptation science. On the substantive front we will focus on presenting how, within such a high diversity of contexts, regularities were identifiable and why these are relevant to policy making. We are focusing this analysis on: scale, agents involved in the adaptation dynamics, dominant paradigm that are being mobilized and the drivers and enablers of local actions - all in relationship with knowledge use. These specifics are engaged in an interplay that calls for attention before any local level actions can be implemented. On the procedural front we will highlight the challenges, discovered along the way, of dovetailing science and art as a way to better apprehend and share the knowledge base on adaptation to climate change. What is the role of science, as perceived by local communities? What is the role of art? Can the joint implementation of both facilitate or hinder an adaptation process? The answer to these questions is again conditional to the nature of the teams that are involved and to local narratives and historical dimension that may allow for the joint practice of art and science.

Preparing for Organisational Learning by HK Infrastructure Project Joint Ventures Organizations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walker, Derek H. T.; Johannes, Derick S.

2003-01-01

Interviews with nine Hong Kong managers involved in joint ventures with other organizations focused on the organizational learning aspects of collaboration: attitudes toward interorganizational learning, acquisition of knowledge assets, and learning motivation. An important motivation for developing alliances was to learn from each other, fill…

Capillary flow weld-bonding

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaughan, R. W.; Jones, R. J. (Inventor)

1976-01-01

The invention of a weld-bonding technique for titanium plates was described. This involves fastening at least two plates of titanium together using spot-welding and applying a bead of adhesive along the edge of the resistance spot-welded joint which upon heating, flows and fills the separation between the joint components.

78 FR 47486 - Joint Failure on Continuous Welded Rail Track

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-08-05

... hazardous materials are involved. Recent accidents highlight the need for track owners, railroads, and their... dollars. At the accident, a pair of broken compromise joint bars was found. The National Transportation... accident. On March 18, 2013, an empty Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) passenger train derailed in Forest Hill...

Strategies of Supporting Chinese Students in an International Joint Degree Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arshakian, Arakssi; Wang, Vivian

2017-01-01

The international joint degree program is one of the recent ways of international collaborations in Higher Education. Those programs involve intensive academic collaborations as well as institutional alliance.?Such programs could provide a supportive environment for international students through international partnerships. The article provides a…

Higher Education Value Added Using Multiple Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milla, Joniada; Martín, Ernesto San; Van Bellegem, Sébastien

2016-01-01

In this article we develop a methodology for the joint value added analysis of multiple outcomes that takes into account the inherent correlation between them. This is especially crucial in the analysis of higher education institutions. We use a unique Colombian database on universities, which contains scores in five domains tested in a…

Multiple-bolted joints in wood members : a literature review

Treesearch

Peter James Moss

1997-01-01

This study reviewed the literature on experimental and analytical research for the connection of wood members using multiple laterally loaded bolts. From this, the influence of geometric factors were ascertained, such as staggered and aligned fasteners, optimum fastener configurations, row factors and length-to-diameter bolt ratios, spacing, end and edge distances, and...

12 CFR 717.27 - Renewal of opt-out.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... applies. (2) Renewal period. Each opt-out renewal must be effective for a period of at least five years as... companies, or their successors, that jointly provided the previous opt-out notice. (b) Contents of renewal... provided by multiple companies with the ABC name or multiple companies in the ABC group or family of...

Neuroborreliosis with extrapyramidal symptoms: a case report.

PubMed

Biesiada, Grazyna; Czapiel, Jacek; Sobczyk-Krupiarz, Iwona; Garlicki, Aleksander; Mach, Tomasz

2008-05-01

The disease of Lyme is a tick-borne infection. It involves skin, the nervous system, joints and the heart. Spirochaeta Borrelia burgdorferi is the etiologic agent of the disease. In the majority of cases, clinical symptoms, like migrating erythema, occur from 3 to 30 days, sometimes to 3 months after a bite from a tick. The early disseminated infection involves multiple migrating erythema, neuroborreliosis, arthritis, myocarditis and other organ-related symptoms. The late stage of chronic infection involves chronic atrophic leg dermatitis, neurological and rheumatological symptoms, and other organ-related symptoms which persist for above 12 months. The diagnosis of the disease of Lyme is based upon specific clinical symptoms confirmed by serologic tests. The two-step diagnostic protocol including the ELISA method, confirmed by the Western-blot test, is optimal. The present article describes a case of a 59-year-old man, a computer specialist, who often spends his free time walking in woods for recreation, and who was bitten by a tick 3 years before hospitalization. The bite resulted in migrating erythema that subsided without antimicrobial treatment. In spite of this, the man had not changed his hobby exposing himself to bites from ticks. One year later, multiple migrating erythema and extrapyramidalis symptoms appeared without any other organ malfunctions. In the current year, the patient was admitted to the Infectious Diseases Hospital, and received antibiotics (ceftriaxon) with following neurological improvement. Several months later, extrapyramidal symptoms increased. On the day of admission to the hospital, the neurologic examination showed abnormalities of upper and lower limbs movements (propulsive walking and the right lower leg traction), the right hand tremor, pouts of the face, and sleepiness.

Localization Performance of Multiple Vibrotactile Cues on Both Arms.

PubMed

Wang, Dangxiao; Peng, Cong; Afzal, Naqash; Li, Weiang; Wu, Dong; Zhang, Yuru

2018-01-01

To present information using vibrotactile stimuli in wearable devices, it is fundamental to understand human performance of localizing vibrotactile cues across the skin surface. In this paper, we studied human ability to identify locations of multiple vibrotactile cues activated simultaneously on both arms. Two haptic bands were mounted in proximity to the elbow and shoulder joints on each arm, and two vibrotactile motors were mounted on each band to provide vibration cues to the dorsal and palmar side of the arm. The localization performance under four conditions were compared, with the number of the simultaneously activated cues varying from one to four in each condition. Experimental results illustrate that the rate of correct localization decreases linearly with the increase in the number of activated cues. It was 27.8 percent for three activated cues, and became even lower for four activated cues. An analysis of the correct rate and error patterns show that the layout of vibrotactile cues can have significant effects on the localization performance of multiple vibrotactile cues. These findings might provide guidelines for using vibrotactile cues to guide the simultaneous motion of multiple joints on both arms.

Traumatic ipsilateral multiple open metatarsal and calcaneal fractures with first metatarsophalangeal joint dislocation: a case report.

PubMed

Ozkan, Namik Kemal; Unay, Koray; Cift, Hakan; Eceviz, Engin; Ozkan, Korhan

2010-06-01

A 17-year-old man fell from a height of 10 m onto his right forefoot and sustained ipsilateral calcaneal, comminuted cuboid, and second, third, and fourth metatarsal neck fractures and first metatarsophalangeal joint open dislocation. This report discusses this rare injury. The authors believe that initial debridement with immediate surgical fixation and reduction with appropriate antibiotic treatment saved the patient's extremity.

Cooperative Control of Multiple Space Manipulators

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-09-01

are configured to grasp the payload once the vehicle moves within range. After the manipulators are in position, their joints are locked while the...spacecraft maneuvers to a location and attitude near the payload. Next, the vehicle approaches the payload in a straight line until the end effectors can...grasp the payload. While the manipulator joints remain locked, the vehicle repositions the entire rigid body system to the desired payload destination

Autofeedback from ultrasound images provides rapid improvement in palpation skills for identifying joint swelling in rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Ogasawara, Michihiro; Murayama, Go; Yamada, Yusuke; Nemoto, Takuya; Kageyama, Michiaki; Toyama, Shoko; Kusaoi, Makio; Onuma, Shin; Kon, Takayuki; Sekiya, Fumio; Sugimoto, Kaoru; Matsudaira, Ran; Matsushita, Masakazu; Tada, Kurisu; Kempe, Kazuo; Yamaji, Ken; Tamura, Naoto; Takasaki, Yoshinari

2012-06-01

Joint swelling, an important factor in the classification criteria and disease activity assessment in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), renders joint palpation a necessary skill for physicians. Ultrasound (US) examination that visualizes soft tissue abnormalities is now used to assess musculoskeletal disease. We assessed the usefulness of US assessments in enhancing physical joint examination skills. We examined 1944 joints (bilateral shoulder, elbow, wrist, metacarpophalangeal joints 1-5, and knee joints) in 108 patients with RA during April-July 2011. We first physically examined and confirmed joint swelling; subsequently, the same rheumatologist conducted US examinations and multiple assessors graded the joint swelling. When the 2 results differed, we received autofeedback from the US results to improve the physical examination skills. The sensitivities and specificities of physical examination for US-detected swollen joint, the correlation coefficient (CC) of the swollen joint counts, and the concordance rate in each patient for joint swelling sites and power Doppler (PD)-positive sites with the κ coefficients between the physical and US examinations were compared over time. We found that the sensitivity of physical examination increased by 42 percentage points (pp), while the specificity decreased by 18 pp. The average CC in June-July was greater than that in April-May. The percentage of κ coefficients > 0.8 increased from 8.8% to 17% for joint swelling and from 8.3% to 14% for PD-positive sites. Our results suggest that autofeedback from US assessment provides quick improvement in palpation skills for identifying joint swelling in patients with RA.

Detection of social group instability among captive rhesus macaques using joint network modeling

PubMed Central

Beisner, Brianne A.; Jin, Jian; Fushing, Hsieh; Mccowan, Brenda

2015-01-01

Social stability in group-living animals is an emergent property which arises from the interaction amongst multiple behavioral networks. However, pinpointing when a social group is at risk of collapse is difficult. We used a joint network modeling approach to examine the interdependencies between two behavioral networks, aggression and status signaling, from four stable and three unstable groups of rhesus macaques in order to identify characteristic patterns of network interdependence in stable groups that are readily distinguishable from unstable groups. Our results showed that the most prominent source of aggression-status network interdependence in stable social groups came from more frequent dyads than expected with opposite direction status-aggression (i.e. A threatens B and B signals acceptance of subordinate status). In contrast, unstable groups showed a decrease in opposite direction aggression-status dyads (but remained higher than expected) as well as more frequent than expected dyads with bidirectional aggression. These results demonstrate that not only was the stable joint relationship between aggression and status networks readily distinguishable from unstable time points, social instability manifested in at least two different ways. In sum, our joint modeling approach may prove useful in quantifying and monitoring the complex social dynamics of any wild or captive social system, as all social systems are composed of multiple interconnected networks PMID:26052339

Improving M-SBL for Joint Sparse Recovery Using a Subspace Penalty

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Jong Chul; Kim, Jong Min; Bresler, Yoram

2015-12-01

The multiple measurement vector problem (MMV) is a generalization of the compressed sensing problem that addresses the recovery of a set of jointly sparse signal vectors. One of the important contributions of this paper is to reveal that the seemingly least related state-of-art MMV joint sparse recovery algorithms - M-SBL (multiple sparse Bayesian learning) and subspace-based hybrid greedy algorithms - have a very important link. More specifically, we show that replacing the $\\log\\det(\\cdot)$ term in M-SBL by a rank proxy that exploits the spark reduction property discovered in subspace-based joint sparse recovery algorithms, provides significant improvements. In particular, if we use the Schatten-$p$ quasi-norm as the corresponding rank proxy, the global minimiser of the proposed algorithm becomes identical to the true solution as $p \\rightarrow 0$. Furthermore, under the same regularity conditions, we show that the convergence to a local minimiser is guaranteed using an alternating minimization algorithm that has closed form expressions for each of the minimization steps, which are convex. Numerical simulations under a variety of scenarios in terms of SNR, and condition number of the signal amplitude matrix demonstrate that the proposed algorithm consistently outperforms M-SBL and other state-of-the art algorithms.

A Multiple Degree of Freedom Lower Extremity Isometric Device to Simultaneously Quantify Hip, Knee and Ankle Torques

PubMed Central

Sánchez, Natalia; Acosta, Ana Maria; Stienen, Arno H.A.

2015-01-01

Characterization of the joint torque coupling strategies used in the lower extremity to generate maximal and submaximal levels of torque at either the hip, knee or ankle is lacking. Currently, there are no available isometric devices that quantify all concurrent joint torques in the hip, knee and ankle of a single leg during maximum voluntary torque generation. Thus, joint-torque coupling strategies in the hip, knee and concurrent torques at ankle and/or coupling patterns at the hip and knee driven by the ankle have yet to be quantified. This manuscript describes the design, implementation and validation of a multiple degree of freedom, lower extremity isometric device (the MultiLEIT) that accurately quantifies simultaneous torques at the hip, knee and ankle. The system was mechanically validated and then implemented with two healthy control individuals and two post-stroke individuals to test usability and patient acceptance. Data indicated different joint torque coupling strategies used by both healthy individuals. In contrast, data showed the same torque coupling patterns in both post-stroke individuals, comparable to those described in the clinic. Successful implementation of the MultiLEIT can contribute to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for abnormal movement patterns and aid in the design of therapeutic interventions. PMID:25163064

Refining patterns of joint hypermobility, habitus, and orthopedic traits in joint hypermobility syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type.

PubMed

Morlino, Silvia; Dordoni, Chiara; Sperduti, Isabella; Venturini, Marina; Celletti, Claudia; Camerota, Filippo; Colombi, Marina; Castori, Marco

2017-04-01

Joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS) and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type (EDS-HT) are two overlapping heritable disorders (JHS/EDS-HT) recognized by separated sets of diagnostic criteria and still lack a confirmatory test. This descriptive research was aimed at better characterizing the clinical phenotype of JHS/EDS-HT with focus on available diagnostic criteria, and in order to propose novel features and assessment strategies. One hundred and eighty-nine (163 females, 26 males; age: 2-73 years) patients from two Italian reference centers were investigated for Beighton score, range of motion in 21 additional joints, rate and sites of dislocations and sprains, recurrent soft-tissue injuries, tendon and muscle ruptures, body mass index, arm span/height ratio, wrist and thumb signs, and 12 additional orthopedic features. Rough rates were compared by age, sex, and handedness with a series of parametric and non-parametric tools. Multiple correspondence analysis was carried out for possible co-segregations of features. Beighton score and hypermobility at other joints were influenced by age at diagnosis. Rate and sites of joint instability complications did not vary according to age at diagnosis except for soft-tissue injuries. No major difference was registered by sex and dominant versus non-dominant body side. At multiple correspondence analysis, selected features tend to co-segregate in a dichotomous distribution. Dolichostenomelia and arachnodactyly segregated independently. This study pointed out a more protean musculoskeletal phenotype than previously considered according to available diagnostic criteria for JHS/EDS-HT. Our findings corroborated the need for a re-thinking of JHS/EDS-HT on clinical grounds in order to find better therapeutic and research strategies. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Efficient inference for genetic association studies with multiple outcomes.

PubMed

Ruffieux, Helene; Davison, Anthony C; Hager, Jorg; Irincheeva, Irina

2017-10-01

Combined inference for heterogeneous high-dimensional data is critical in modern biology, where clinical and various kinds of molecular data may be available from a single study. Classical genetic association studies regress a single clinical outcome on many genetic variants one by one, but there is an increasing demand for joint analysis of many molecular outcomes and genetic variants in order to unravel functional interactions. Unfortunately, most existing approaches to joint modeling are either too simplistic to be powerful or are impracticable for computational reasons. Inspired by Richardson and others (2010, Bayesian Statistics 9), we consider a sparse multivariate regression model that allows simultaneous selection of predictors and associated responses. As Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) inference on such models can be prohibitively slow when the number of genetic variants exceeds a few thousand, we propose a variational inference approach which produces posterior information very close to that of MCMC inference, at a much reduced computational cost. Extensive numerical experiments show that our approach outperforms popular variable selection methods and tailored Bayesian procedures, dealing within hours with problems involving hundreds of thousands of genetic variants and tens to hundreds of clinical or molecular outcomes. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

The relationship between independent transfer skills and upper limb kinetics in wheelchair users.

PubMed

Tsai, Chung-Ying; Hogaboom, Nathan S; Boninger, Michael L; Koontz, Alicia M

2014-01-01

Transfers are one of the most physically demanding wheelchair activities. The purpose of this study was to determine if using proper transfer skills as measured by the Transfer Assessment Instrument (TAI) is associated with reduced loading on the upper extremities. Twenty-three wheelchair users performed transfers to a level-height bench while a series of forces plates, load cells, and a motion capture system recorded the biomechanics of their natural transferring techniques. Their transfer skills were simultaneously evaluated by two study clinicians using the TAI. Logistic regression and multiple linear regression models were used to determine the relationships between TAI scores and the kinetic variables on both arms across all joints. The results showed that the TAI measured transfer skills were closely associated with the magnitude and timing of joint moments (P < .02, model R(2) values ranged from 0.27 to 0.79). Proper completion of the skills which targeted the trailing arm was associated with lower average resultant moments and rates of rise of resultant moments at the trailing shoulder and/or elbow. Some skills involving the leading side had the effect of increasing the magnitude or rate loading on the leading side. Knowledge of the kinetic outcomes associated with each skill may help users to achieve the best load-relieving effects for their upper extremities.

Macrophages – Key Cells in the Response to Wear Debris from Joint Replacements

PubMed Central

Nich, Christophe; Takakubo, Yuya; Pajarinen, Jukka; Ainola, Mari; Salem, Abdelhakim; Sillat, Tarvo; Rao, Allison J.; Raska, Milan; Tamaki, Yasunobu; Takagi, Michiaki; Konttinen, Yrjö T.; Goodman, Stuart B.; Gallo, Jiri

2013-01-01

The generation of wear debris is an inevitable result of normal usage of joint replacements. Wear debris particles stimulate local and systemic biological reactions resulting in chronic inflammation, periprosthetic bone destruction, and eventually, implant loosening and revision surgery. The latter may be indicated in up to 15% patients in the decade following the arthroplasty using conventional polyethylene. Macrophages play multiple roles in both inflammation and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. As sentinels of the innate immune system, they are central to the initiation of this inflammatory cascade, characterized by the release of pro-inflammatory and pro-osteoclastic factors. Similar to the response to pathogens, wear particles elicit a macrophage response, based on the unique properties of the cells belonging to this lineage, including sensing, chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and adaptive stimulation. The biological processes involved are complex, redundant, both local and systemic, and highly adaptive. Cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage are implicated in this phenomenon, ultimately resulting in differentiation and activation of bone resorbing osteoclasts. Simultaneously, other distinct macrophage populations inhibit inflammation and protect the bone-implant interface from osteolysis. Here, the current knowledge about the physiology of monocyte/macrophage lineage cells is reviewed. In addition, the pattern and consequences of their interaction with wear debris and the recent developments in this field are presented. PMID:23568608

Sustaining the edge: factors influencing strategy selection in academic health centers.

PubMed

Walsh, Anne M; Szabat, Kathryn

2002-01-01

Competition within the acute care sector as well as increased penetration by managed care organizations has influenced the structure and role of academic health centers during the past decade. The market factors confronting academic health centers are not dissimilar from conditions that confront other organizations competing in mature industries characterized by declining profitability and intense rivalry for market share. When confronted with intense competition or adverse external events, organizations in other industries have responded to potential threats by forming alliances, developing joint ventures, or merging with another firm to maintain their competitive advantage. Although mergers and acquisitions dominated the strategic landscape in the healthcare industry during the past decade, recent evidence suggests that other types of strategic ventures may offer similar economic and contracting benefits to member organizations. Academic health centers have traditionally been involved in network relationships with multiple partners via their shared technology, collaborative research, and joint educational endeavors. These quasi-organizational relationships appear to have provided a framework for strategic decisions and allowed executives of academic health centers to select strategies that were competitive yet closely aligned with their organizational mission. The analysis of factors that influenced strategy selection by executives of academic health centers suggests a deliberate and methodical approach to achieving market share objectives, expanding managed care contracts, and developing physician networks.

Improving Kinematic Accuracy of Soft Wearable Data Gloves by Optimizing Sensor Locations

PubMed Central

Kim, Dong Hyun; Lee, Sang Wook; Park, Hyung-Soon

2016-01-01

Bending sensors enable compact, wearable designs when used for measuring hand configurations in data gloves. While existing data gloves can accurately measure angular displacement of the finger and distal thumb joints, accurate measurement of thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint movements remains challenging due to crosstalk between the multi-sensor outputs required to measure the degrees of freedom (DOF). To properly measure CMC-joint configurations, sensor locations that minimize sensor crosstalk must be identified. This paper presents a novel approach to identifying optimal sensor locations. Three-dimensional hand surface data from ten subjects was collected in multiple thumb postures with varied CMC-joint flexion and abduction angles. For each posture, scanned CMC-joint contours were used to estimate CMC-joint flexion and abduction angles by varying the positions and orientations of two bending sensors. Optimal sensor locations were estimated by the least squares method, which minimized the difference between the true CMC-joint angles and the joint angle estimates. Finally, the resultant optimal sensor locations were experimentally validated. Placing sensors at the optimal locations, CMC-joint angle measurement accuracies improved (flexion, 2.8° ± 1.9°; abduction, 1.9° ± 1.2°). The proposed method for improving the accuracy of the sensing system can be extended to other types of soft wearable measurement devices. PMID:27240364

Automatic Quantification of Radiographic Wrist Joint Space Width of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis.

PubMed

Huo, Yinghe; Vincken, Koen L; van der Heijde, Desiree; de Hair, Maria J H; Lafeber, Floris P; Viergever, Max A

2017-11-01

Objective: Wrist joint space narrowing is a main radiographic outcome of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Yet, automatic radiographic wrist joint space width (JSW) quantification for RA patients has not been widely investigated. The aim of this paper is to present an automatic method to quantify the JSW of three wrist joints that are least affected by bone overlapping and are frequently involved in RA. These joints are located around the scaphoid bone, viz. the multangular-navicular, capitate-navicular-lunate, and radiocarpal joints. Methods: The joint space around the scaphoid bone is detected by using consecutive searches of separate path segments, where each segment location aids in constraining the subsequent one. For joint margin delineation, first the boundary not affected by X-ray projection is extracted, followed by a backtrace process to obtain the actual joint margin. The accuracy of the quantified JSW is evaluated by comparison with the manually obtained ground truth. Results: Two of the 50 radiographs used for evaluation of the method did not yield a correct path through all three wrist joints. The delineated joint margins of the remaining 48 radiographs were used for JSW quantification. It was found that 90% of the joints had a JSW deviating less than 20% from the mean JSW of manual indications, with the mean JSW error less than 10%. Conclusion: The proposed method is able to automatically quantify the JSW of radiographic wrist joints reliably. The proposed method may aid clinical researchers to study the progression of wrist joint damage in RA studies. Objective: Wrist joint space narrowing is a main radiographic outcome of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Yet, automatic radiographic wrist joint space width (JSW) quantification for RA patients has not been widely investigated. The aim of this paper is to present an automatic method to quantify the JSW of three wrist joints that are least affected by bone overlapping and are frequently involved in RA. These joints are located around the scaphoid bone, viz. the multangular-navicular, capitate-navicular-lunate, and radiocarpal joints. Methods: The joint space around the scaphoid bone is detected by using consecutive searches of separate path segments, where each segment location aids in constraining the subsequent one. For joint margin delineation, first the boundary not affected by X-ray projection is extracted, followed by a backtrace process to obtain the actual joint margin. The accuracy of the quantified JSW is evaluated by comparison with the manually obtained ground truth. Results: Two of the 50 radiographs used for evaluation of the method did not yield a correct path through all three wrist joints. The delineated joint margins of the remaining 48 radiographs were used for JSW quantification. It was found that 90% of the joints had a JSW deviating less than 20% from the mean JSW of manual indications, with the mean JSW error less than 10%. Conclusion: The proposed method is able to automatically quantify the JSW of radiographic wrist joints reliably. The proposed method may aid clinical researchers to study the progression of wrist joint damage in RA studies.

Inference and representations of hand actions through grasping synergies. Comment on "Grasping synergies: A motor-control approach to the mirror neuron mechanism" by D'Ausilio, Bartoli, and Maffongelli

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santello, Marco

2015-03-01

The concept of synergy, denoting the coordination of multiple elements working together toward a common goal, has been extensively studied to understand how the central nervous system (CNS) controls movement (for review see [5,9]). Although this definition is appealing in its simplicity, 'multiple elements', 'working together', and 'common goal' each take different meanings depending on the scale at which a given sensorimotor system is studied, whether the 'working together' is defined in spatial and/or temporal domains, and the hypothesized synergy's 'common goal'. For example, the elements involved in a synergy can be defined as single motor units, muscles, or joints. Similarly, the goal of a synergy may be defined as a means available to the CNS to 'simplify' the control of multiple elements, or to minimize a given cost function or movement feature - all of which may differ across tasks and tasks conditions. These considerations underscore the fact that a universally accepted definition of synergies and their functional role remains to be established (for review see [6]). Thus, the nature and functional role(s) of synergies is still debated in the literature. Nevertheless, it is generally agreed that the reduction in the number of independent degrees of freedom that is manifested through synergies emerges from the interaction of biomechanical and neural factors constraining the spatial and temporal coordination of multiple muscles.

Entangling measurements for multiparameter estimation with two qubits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roccia, Emanuele; Gianani, Ilaria; Mancino, Luca; Sbroscia, Marco; Somma, Fabrizia; Genoni, Marco G.; Barbieri, Marco

2018-01-01

Careful tailoring the quantum state of probes offers the capability of investigating matter at unprecedented precisions. Rarely, however, the interaction with the sample is fully encompassed by a single parameter, and the information contained in the probe needs to be partitioned on multiple parameters. There exist, then, practical bounds on the ultimate joint-estimation precision set by the unavailability of a single optimal measurement for all parameters. Here, we discuss how these considerations are modified for two-level quantum probes — qubits — by the use of two copies and entangling measurements. We find that the joint estimation of phase and phase diffusion benefits from such collective measurement, while for multiple phases no enhancement can be observed. We demonstrate this in a proof-of-principle photonics setup.

Multiple trapping on a comb structure as a model of electron transport in disordered nanostructured semiconductors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sibatov, R. T., E-mail: ren-sib@bk.ru; Morozova, E. V., E-mail: kat-valezhanina@yandex.ru

2015-05-15

A model of dispersive transport in disordered nanostructured semiconductors has been proposed taking into account the percolation structure of a sample and joint action of several mechanisms. Topological and energy disorders have been simultaneously taken into account within the multiple trapping model on a comb structure modeling the percolation character of trajectories. The joint action of several mechanisms has been described within random walks with a mixture of waiting time distributions. Integral transport equations with fractional derivatives have been obtained for an arbitrary density of localized states. The kinetics of the transient current has been calculated within the proposed newmore » model in order to analyze time-of-flight experiments for nanostructured semiconductors.« less

Anterior fracture dislocation of the sacroiliac joint: A case report and literature review.

PubMed

Xiao, Jianlin; Wang, Yang; Zhang, Minglei; Jiang, Rui; Zhu, Tongtong; Liu, Guangyao; Zuo, Jianlin

2017-08-09

Publications describing the diagnosis and treatment of anterior dislocation of the sacroiliac joint are scarce. We report the case a 19-year-old female at 8 weeks' gestation who presented with anterior fracture dislocation of the right sacroiliac joint, posterior fracture dislocation of the left sacroiliac joint (crescent fracture), and incomplete abortion resulting from high energy trauma. Orthopedic surgery involved standard anterior sacroiliac joint plating using an ilioinguinal approach combined with a modified Stoppa approach. Three attempts at complete abortion failed. Complete abortion was eventually achieved by dilatation and curettage two weeks after orthopedic surgery. Our findings reveal a need to improve techniques for diagnosis and treatment of anterior fracture dislocation of the sacroiliac joint, so greater attention can be paid to the rapid and effective management of associated comorbidities, and those resulting from the initial trauma.

Immunoserological parameters in SLE: high-avidity anti-dsDNA detected by ELISA are the most closely associated with the disease activity.

PubMed

Andrejevic, Sladjana; Jeremic, Ivica; Sefik-Bukilica, Mirjana; Nikolic, Milos; Stojimirovic, Biljana; Bonaci-Nikolic, Branka

2013-11-01

We assessed the relationship between the serum levels of antibodies against double-stranded DNA (dsDNA), C1q, nucleosomes, histones, C3 and C4 complement components with one another, with organ involvement and overall disease activity in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). One hundred seventy-five sera from 99 patients with SLE, 31 sera of patients with other connective tissue diseases, and 20 sera from healthy blood donors were tested. SLE disease activity was assessed by modified SLEDAI-2K (M-SLEDAI-2K), not including complement and anti-dsDNA descriptors. Anti-dsDNA antibodies were measured by indirect immunofluorescence on Crithidia luciliae (CLIFT), standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and ELISA for high-avidity antibodies. The most significant risk factor for renal involvement were anti-C1q antibodies (OR = 3.88, p < 0.05), high-avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies for polyserositis (OR = 7.99, p < 0.01), anti-histone antibodies for joint involvement (OR = 2.75, p < 0.05), and low C3 for cytopenia (OR = 11.96, p < 0.001) and mucocutaneous lesions (OR = 3.32, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that disease activity in SLE could be predicted by the levels of antibodies against dsDNA determined by standard (p < 0.05) and high-avidity (p < 0.001) ELISA, and inversely associated with concentration of C3 (p < 0.001). Using stepwise method, high-avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies were found to be in the closest association to M-SLEDAI-2K. Moreover, positive test for high-avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies appeared as an independent risk factor for moderately to severely active disease (M-SLEDAI-2K>5) (OR = 5.5, p < 0.01). The presence of high-avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies represented a risk for renal, joint, and most importantly for serosal involvement. Our results suggest that simple and reliable ELISA for high-avidity anti-dsDNA antibodies is the test of good clinical utility for the assessment of global SLE activity.

Functional Regression Models for Epistasis Analysis of Multiple Quantitative Traits.

PubMed

Zhang, Futao; Xie, Dan; Liang, Meimei; Xiong, Momiao

2016-04-01

To date, most genetic analyses of phenotypes have focused on analyzing single traits or analyzing each phenotype independently. However, joint epistasis analysis of multiple complementary traits will increase statistical power and improve our understanding of the complicated genetic structure of the complex diseases. Despite their importance in uncovering the genetic structure of complex traits, the statistical methods for identifying epistasis in multiple phenotypes remains fundamentally unexplored. To fill this gap, we formulate a test for interaction between two genes in multiple quantitative trait analysis as a multiple functional regression (MFRG) in which the genotype functions (genetic variant profiles) are defined as a function of the genomic position of the genetic variants. We use large-scale simulations to calculate Type I error rates for testing interaction between two genes with multiple phenotypes and to compare the power with multivariate pairwise interaction analysis and single trait interaction analysis by a single variate functional regression model. To further evaluate performance, the MFRG for epistasis analysis is applied to five phenotypes of exome sequence data from the NHLBI's Exome Sequencing Project (ESP) to detect pleiotropic epistasis. A total of 267 pairs of genes that formed a genetic interaction network showed significant evidence of epistasis influencing five traits. The results demonstrate that the joint interaction analysis of multiple phenotypes has a much higher power to detect interaction than the interaction analysis of a single trait and may open a new direction to fully uncovering the genetic structure of multiple phenotypes.

Iterative algorithm for joint zero diagonalization with application in blind source separation.

PubMed

Zhang, Wei-Tao; Lou, Shun-Tian

2011-07-01

A new iterative algorithm for the nonunitary joint zero diagonalization of a set of matrices is proposed for blind source separation applications. On one hand, since the zero diagonalizer of the proposed algorithm is constructed iteratively by successive multiplications of an invertible matrix, the singular solutions that occur in the existing nonunitary iterative algorithms are naturally avoided. On the other hand, compared to the algebraic method for joint zero diagonalization, the proposed algorithm requires fewer matrices to be zero diagonalized to yield even better performance. The extension of the algorithm to the complex and nonsquare mixing cases is also addressed. Numerical simulations on both synthetic data and blind source separation using time-frequency distributions illustrate the performance of the algorithm and provide a comparison to the leading joint zero diagonalization schemes.

Performance Evaluation of a Lower Limb Exoskeleton for Stair Ascent and Descent with Paraplegia*

PubMed Central

Farris, Ryan J.; Quintero, Hugo A.; Goldfarb, Michael

2013-01-01

This paper describes the application of a powered lower limb exoskeleton to aid paraplegic individuals in stair ascent and descent. A brief description of the exoskeleton hardware is provided along with an explanation of the control methodology implemented to allow stair ascent and descent. Tests were performed with a paraplegic individual (T10 complete injury level) and data is presented from multiple trials, including the hip and knee joint torque and power required to perform this functionality. Joint torque and power requirements are summarized, including peak hip and knee joint torque requirements of 0.75 Nm/kg and 0.87 Nm/kg, respectively, and peak hip and knee joint power requirements of approximately 0.65 W/kg and 0.85 W/kg, respectively. PMID:23366287

Design of a Virtual Player for Joint Improvisation with Humans in the Mirror Game

PubMed Central

Zhai, Chao; Alderisio, Francesco; Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira; di Bernardo, Mario

2016-01-01

Joint improvisation is often observed among humans performing joint action tasks. Exploring the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms behind the emergence of joint improvisation is an open research challenge. This paper investigates jointly improvised movements between two participants in the mirror game, a paradigmatic joint task example. First, experiments involving movement coordination of different dyads of human players are performed in order to build a human benchmark. No designation of leader and follower is given beforehand. We find that joint improvisation is characterized by the lack of a leader and high levels of movement synchronization. Then, a theoretical model is proposed to capture some features of their interaction, and a set of experiments is carried out to test and validate the model ability to reproduce the experimental observations. Furthermore, the model is used to drive a computer avatar able to successfully improvise joint motion with a human participant in real time. Finally, a convergence analysis of the proposed model is carried out to confirm its ability to reproduce joint movements between the participants. PMID:27123927

Design of a Virtual Player for Joint Improvisation with Humans in the Mirror Game.

PubMed

Zhai, Chao; Alderisio, Francesco; Słowiński, Piotr; Tsaneva-Atanasova, Krasimira; di Bernardo, Mario

2016-01-01

Joint improvisation is often observed among humans performing joint action tasks. Exploring the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms behind the emergence of joint improvisation is an open research challenge. This paper investigates jointly improvised movements between two participants in the mirror game, a paradigmatic joint task example. First, experiments involving movement coordination of different dyads of human players are performed in order to build a human benchmark. No designation of leader and follower is given beforehand. We find that joint improvisation is characterized by the lack of a leader and high levels of movement synchronization. Then, a theoretical model is proposed to capture some features of their interaction, and a set of experiments is carried out to test and validate the model ability to reproduce the experimental observations. Furthermore, the model is used to drive a computer avatar able to successfully improvise joint motion with a human participant in real time. Finally, a convergence analysis of the proposed model is carried out to confirm its ability to reproduce joint movements between the participants.

Investigation of 2‐stage meta‐analysis methods for joint longitudinal and time‐to‐event data through simulation and real data application

PubMed Central

Tudur Smith, Catrin; Gueyffier, François; Kolamunnage‐Dona, Ruwanthi

2017-01-01

Background Joint modelling of longitudinal and time‐to‐event data is often preferred over separate longitudinal or time‐to‐event analyses as it can account for study dropout, error in longitudinally measured covariates, and correlation between longitudinal and time‐to‐event outcomes. The joint modelling literature focuses mainly on the analysis of single studies with no methods currently available for the meta‐analysis of joint model estimates from multiple studies. Methods We propose a 2‐stage method for meta‐analysis of joint model estimates. These methods are applied to the INDANA dataset to combine joint model estimates of systolic blood pressure with time to death, time to myocardial infarction, and time to stroke. Results are compared to meta‐analyses of separate longitudinal or time‐to‐event models. A simulation study is conducted to contrast separate versus joint analyses over a range of scenarios. Results Using the real dataset, similar results were obtained by using the separate and joint analyses. However, the simulation study indicated a benefit of use of joint rather than separate methods in a meta‐analytic setting where association exists between the longitudinal and time‐to‐event outcomes. Conclusions Where evidence of association between longitudinal and time‐to‐event outcomes exists, results from joint models over standalone analyses should be pooled in 2‐stage meta‐analyses. PMID:29250814

Clinical synovitis in a particular joint is associated with progression of erosions and joint space narrowing in that same joint, but not in patients initially treated with infliximab.

PubMed

Klarenbeek, N B; Güler-Yüksel, M; van der Heijde, D M F M; Hulsmans, H M J; Kerstens, P J S M; Molenaar, T H E; de Sonnaville, P B J; Huizinga, T W J; Dijkmans, B A C; Allaart, C F

2010-12-01

To assess the relationship between joint tenderness, swelling and joint damage progression in individual joints and to evaluate the influence of treatment on these relationships. First-year data of the Behandel Strategieën (BeSt) study were used, in which patients recently diagnosed as having rheumatoid arthritis (RA) were randomly assigned into four different treatment strategies. Baseline and 1-year x-rays of the hands and feet were assessed using the Sharp-van der Heijde score (SHS). With generalised estimating equations, 3-monthly assessments of tender and swollen joints of year 1 were related to erosion progression, joint space narrowing (JSN) progression and total SHS progression at the individual joint level (definition > 0.5 SHS units) in year 1, corrected for potential confounders and within-patient correlation for multiple joints per patient. During year 1, 59% of all 13 959 joints analysed were ever tender and 45% ever swollen, 2.1% showed erosion progression, 1.9% JSN progression and 3.6% SHS progression. Swelling and tenderness were both independently associated with erosion and JSN progression with comparable OR, although with higher OR in the hands than in the feet. Local swelling and tenderness were not associated with local damage progression in patients initially treated with infliximab. Clinical signs of synovitis are associated with erosion and JSN progression in individual joints after 1 year in RA. A disconnect between synovitis and joint damage progression was observed at joint level in patients who were treated with methotrexate and infliximab as initial treatment, confirming the disconnect between synovitis and the development of joint damage in tumour necrosis factor blockers seen at patient level.

Joint venture versus outreach: a financial analysis of case studies.

PubMed

Forsman, R W

2001-01-01

Medical centers across the country are facing cost challenges, and national commercial laboratories are experiencing financial declines that necessitate their capturing market share in any way possible. Many laboratories are turning to joint ventures or partnerships for financial relief. However, it often is in the best interest of the patient and the medical center to integrate laboratory services across the continuum of care. This article analyzes two hypothetical joint ventures involving a laboratory management agreement and full laboratory outsourcing.

Adaptive Postural Control for Joint Immobilization during Multitask Performance

PubMed Central

Hsu, Wei-Li

2014-01-01

Motor abundance is an essential feature of adaptive control. The range of joint combinations enabled by motor abundance provides the body with the necessary freedom to adopt different positions, configurations, and movements that allow for exploratory postural behavior. This study investigated the adaptation of postural control to joint immobilization during multi-task performance. Twelve healthy volunteers (6 males and 6 females; 21–29 yr) without any known neurological deficits, musculoskeletal conditions, or balance disorders participated in this study. The participants executed a targeting task, alone or combined with a ball-balancing task, while standing with free or restricted joint motions. The effects of joint configuration variability on center of mass (COM) stability were examined using uncontrolled manifold (UCM) analysis. The UCM method separates joint variability into two components: the first is consistent with the use of motor abundance, which does not affect COM position (VUCM); the second leads to COM position variability (VORT). The analysis showed that joints were coordinated such that their variability had a minimal effect on COM position. However, the component of joint variability that reflects the use of motor abundance to stabilize COM (VUCM) was significant decreased when the participants performed the combined task with immobilized joints. The component of joint variability that leads to COM variability (VORT) tended to increase with a reduction in joint degrees of freedom. The results suggested that joint immobilization increases the difficulty of stabilizing COM when multiple tasks are performed simultaneously. These findings are important for developing rehabilitation approaches for patients with limited joint movements. PMID:25329477

Robot Position Sensor Fault Tolerance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aldridge, Hal A.

1997-01-01

Robot systems in critical applications, such as those in space and nuclear environments, must be able to operate during component failure to complete important tasks. One failure mode that has received little attention is the failure of joint position sensors. Current fault tolerant designs require the addition of directly redundant position sensors which can affect joint design. A new method is proposed that utilizes analytical redundancy to allow for continued operation during joint position sensor failure. Joint torque sensors are used with a virtual passive torque controller to make the robot joint stable without position feedback and improve position tracking performance in the presence of unknown link dynamics and end-effector loading. Two Cartesian accelerometer based methods are proposed to determine the position of the joint. The joint specific position determination method utilizes two triaxial accelerometers attached to the link driven by the joint with the failed position sensor. The joint specific method is not computationally complex and the position error is bounded. The system wide position determination method utilizes accelerometers distributed on different robot links and the end-effector to determine the position of sets of multiple joints. The system wide method requires fewer accelerometers than the joint specific method to make all joint position sensors fault tolerant but is more computationally complex and has lower convergence properties. Experiments were conducted on a laboratory manipulator. Both position determination methods were shown to track the actual position satisfactorily. A controller using the position determination methods and the virtual passive torque controller was able to servo the joints to a desired position during position sensor failure.

Spherical Coordinate Systems for Streamlining Suited Mobility Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benson, Elizabeth; Cowley, Matthew; Harvill, Lauren; Rajulu. Sudhakar

2015-01-01

Introduction: When describing human motion, biomechanists generally report joint angles in terms of Euler angle rotation sequences. However, there are known limitations in using this method to describe complex motions such as the shoulder joint during a baseball pitch. Euler angle notation uses a series of three rotations about an axis where each rotation is dependent upon the preceding rotation. As such, the Euler angles need to be regarded as a set to get accurate angle information. Unfortunately, it is often difficult to visualize and understand these complex motion representations. It has been shown that using a spherical coordinate system allows Anthropometry and Biomechanics Facility (ABF) personnel to increase their ability to transmit important human mobility data to engineers, in a format that is readily understandable and directly translatable to their design efforts. Objectives: The goal of this project was to use innovative analysis and visualization techniques to aid in the examination and comprehension of complex motions. Methods: This project consisted of a series of small sub-projects, meant to validate and verify a new method before it was implemented in the ABF's data analysis practices. A mechanical test rig was built and tracked in 3D using an optical motion capture system. Its position and orientation were reported in both Euler and spherical reference systems. In the second phase of the project, the ABF estimated the error inherent in a spherical coordinate system, and evaluated how this error would vary within the reference frame. This stage also involved expanding a kinematic model of the shoulder to include the rest of the joints of the body. The third stage of the project involved creating visualization methods to assist in interpreting motion in a spherical frame. These visualization methods will be incorporated in a tool to evaluate a database of suited mobility data, which is currently in development. Results: Initial results demonstrated that a spherical coordinate system is helpful in describing and visualizing the motion of a space suit. The system is particularly useful in describing the motion of the shoulder, where multiple degrees of freedom can lead to very complex motion paths.

Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis: a case report and review of literature.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Sandra Lúcia; Guedes, Erilane L; Botan, Valeria; Barbosa, Alessandra; Freitas, Ernani J

2009-01-01

Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis (JHF) is a rare disease with autosomal recessive inheritance that occurs mainly in childhood and is characterized by the deposition of amorphous hyaline material in the skin and other organs. There are approximately 70 cases reported in the literature. Herein we describe the case of a 14-month-old boy with multiple cutaneous nodules around small and large joints, papulous skin lesions, hyperpigmented plaques and nodules in the perianal region, flexion contractures and stiffness of joints and diffuse osteoporosis. Symptoms were present since the second month of life. Histopathologic studies of joint nodulations demonstrated the presence of hyaline material, confirming the diagnosis of juvenile hyaline fibromatosis.

Sacroiliac Joint Interventions.

PubMed

Soto Quijano, David A; Otero Loperena, Eduardo

2018-02-01

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain is an important cause of lower back problems. Multiple SIJ injection techniques have been proposed over the years to help in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. However, the SIJ innervation is complex and variable, and truly intra-articular injections are sometimes difficult to obtain. Different sacroiliac joint injections have shown to provide pain relief in patients suffering this ailment. Various techniques for intraarticular injections, sacral branch blocks and radiofrequency ablation, both fluoroscopy guided and ultrasound guided are discussed in this paper. Less common techniques like prolotherapy, platelet rich plasma injections and botulism toxin injections are also discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The joint in psoriatic arthritis.

PubMed

Mortezavi, Mahta; Thiele, Ralph; Ritchlin, Christopher

2015-01-01

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a chronic inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis, is notable for diversity in disease presentation, course and response to treatment. Equally varied are the types of musculoskeletal involvement which include peripheral and axial joint disease, dactylitis and enthesitis. In this review, we focus on the psoriatic joint and discuss pathways that underlie synovial, cartilage and bone inflammation and highlight key histopathologic features. The pivotal inflammatory mechanisms and pathobiology of PsA parallel findings in other forms of spondyloarthritis but are distinct from disease pathways described in rheumatoid synovitis and bone disease. The diagnosis of PsA from both a clinical and imaging perspective is also discussed.

Global-Local Finite Element Analysis of Bonded Single-Lap Joints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kilic, Bahattin; Madenci, Erdogan; Ambur, Damodar R.

2004-01-01

Adhesively bonded lap joints involve dissimilar material junctions and sharp changes in geometry, possibly leading to premature failure. Although the finite element method is well suited to model the bonded lap joints, traditional finite elements are incapable of correctly resolving the stress state at junctions of dissimilar materials because of the unbounded nature of the stresses. In order to facilitate the use of bonded lap joints in future structures, this study presents a finite element technique utilizing a global (special) element coupled with traditional elements. The global element includes the singular behavior at the junction of dissimilar materials with or without traction-free surfaces.

[Non vascularized toe phalangeal transfers for symbrachydactyly. Active range of motion without joint reconstruction].

PubMed

Leca, J-B; Auquit Auckbur, I; Bachy, B; Milliez, P-Y

2008-12-01

Symbrachydactyly is a rare congenital malformation of the hand and its treatment is controversial. Non vascularized toe phalangeal transfers have been used for management of short digits for three children. Six phalanges have been harvested complete with their periosteum. No joint reconstruction has been performed and all children have undergone surgery at a young age. Four of six digits involved have an active range of motion (range 30 to 105 degrees ). All authors who have reported active range of motion of toe phalangeal transfers have performed joint reconstruction. Here, we report obtaining active range of motion of phalangeal transfers without necessity of joint reconstruction.

Temporal gene expression profiling of the rat knee joint capsule during immobilization-induced joint contractures.

PubMed

Wong, Kayleigh; Sun, Fangui; Trudel, Guy; Sebastiani, Paola; Laneuville, Odette

2015-05-26

Contractures of the knee joint cause disability and handicap. Recovering range of motion is recognized by arthritic patients as their preference for improved health outcome secondary only to pain management. Clinical and experimental studies provide evidence that the posterior knee capsule prevents the knee from achieving full extension. This study was undertaken to investigate the dynamic changes of the joint capsule transcriptome during the progression of knee joint contractures induced by immobilization. We performed a microarray analysis of genes expressed in the posterior knee joint capsule following induction of a flexion contracture by rigidly immobilizing the rat knee joint over a time-course of 16 weeks. Fold changes of expression values were measured and co-expressed genes were identified by clustering based on time-series analysis. Genes associated with immobilization were further analyzed to reveal pathways and biological significance and validated by immunohistochemistry on sagittal sections of knee joints. Changes in expression with a minimum of 1.5 fold changes were dominated by a decrease in expression for 7732 probe sets occurring at week 8 while the expression of 2251 probe sets increased. Clusters of genes with similar profiles of expression included a total of 162 genes displaying at least a 2 fold change compared to week 1. Functional analysis revealed ontology categories corresponding to triglyceride metabolism, extracellular matrix and muscle contraction. The altered expression of selected genes involved in the triglyceride biosynthesis pathway; AGPAT-9, and of the genes P4HB and HSP47, both involved in collagen synthesis, was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Gene expression in the knee joint capsule was sensitive to joint immobility and provided insights into molecular mechanisms relevant to the pathophysiology of knee flexion contractures. Capsule responses to immobilization was dynamic and characterized by modulation of at least three reaction pathways; down regulation of triglyceride biosynthesis, alteration of extracellular matrix degradation and muscle contraction gene expression. The posterior knee capsule may deploy tissue-specific patterns of mRNA regulatory responses to immobilization. The identification of altered expression of genes and biochemical pathways in the joint capsule provides potential targets for the therapy of knee flexion contractures.

Clinical Presentation, Risk Factors, and Outcomes of Hematogenous Prosthetic Joint Infection in Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia.

PubMed

Tande, Aaron J; Palraj, Bharath Raj; Osmon, Douglas R; Berbari, Elie F; Baddour, Larry M; Lohse, Christine M; Steckelberg, James M; Wilson, Walter R; Sohail, M Rizwan

2016-02-01

Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia is a life-threatening condition that may lead to metastatic infection, including prosthetic joint infection. To assess clinical factors associated with hematogenous prosthetic joint infection, we retrospectively reviewed all patients with a joint arthroplasty in place at the time of a first episode of S. aureus bacteremia over a 5-year period at our institution. Patients with postsurgical prosthetic joint infection without hematogenous prosthetic joint infection were excluded. There were 85 patients (143 arthroplasties) with either no prosthetic joint infection (n = 50; 58.8%) or hematogenous prosthetic joint infection in at least one arthroplasty (n = 35; 41.2%). The odds of hematogenous prosthetic joint infection was significantly increased among patients with community-acquired S. aureus bacteremia (odds ratio [OR] 18.07; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.64-infinity; P = .001), as compared with nosocomial S. aureus bacteremia, in which there were no patients with hematogenous prosthetic joint infection. After adjusting for S. aureus bacteremia classification, the presence of ≥3 joint arthroplasties in place was associated with a nearly ninefold increased odds of hematogenous prosthetic joint infection as compared with those with 1-2 joint arthroplasties in place (OR 8.55; 95% CI 1.44-95.71; P = .012). All but one joint with prosthetic joint infection demonstrated at least one clinical feature suggestive of infection. There were 4 additional S. aureus prosthetic joint infections diagnosed during a median of 3.4 years of follow-up post hospitalization for S. aureus bacteremia. Prosthetic joint infection is frequent in patients with existing arthroplasties and concomitant S. aureus bacteremia, particularly with community-acquired S. aureus bacteremia and multiple prostheses. In contrast, occult S. aureus prosthetic joint infection without clinical features suggestive of prosthetic joint infection at the time of S. aureus bacteremia is rare. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Computers as Media for Communication: Learning and Development in a Whole Earth Context.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Levin, James A.

Educationally successful electronic network activities involving microcomputers and long-distance networks include a student newswire, joint social science projects, and joint science projects. A newswire activity, such as "The Computer Chronicles," can provide a wide range of audiences for writing, a functional environment for reading, and a…

Joint Attention, Self-Recognition, and Neurocognitive Function in Toddlers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nichols, Kate E.; Fox, Nathan; Mundy, Peter

2005-01-01

Recent studies have attempted to understand the processes involved in joint attention because of its relevance to both atypical and normal development. Data from a recent study of young children with autism suggests that performance on a delay nonmatch to sample (DNMS) task associated with ventromedial prefrontal functions, but not an…

Do You Have a Child with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis in Your Class?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferris, Jean; Fujishige, Carole

The booklet provides information to help teachers understand juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA). JRA is a chronic disease involving one or more joint(s); its cause is unknown. The five types of JRA are monarticular, pauciarticular of young girls, pauciarticular of boys, polyarticular, and systemic. Aspirin is the main treatment medication and…

Student International Research Project on Employees' Involvement in Innovation: Experience and Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bondarev, Maxim; Zashchitina, Elena; Andreassen, John-Erik

2016-01-01

This paper represents the experience and outcomes of a joint education and research project of Østfold University College and Southern Federal University. The project goal is to evolve and strengthen the academic cooperation between the universities by developing joint courses and improving the quality of education via mutual exchange of…

Heads, Shoulders, Elbows, Knees, and Toes: Modular Gdf5 Enhancers Control Different Joints in the Vertebrate Skeleton

PubMed Central

Schoor, Michael; Mortlock, Doug P.; Reddi, A. Hari; Kingsley, David M.

2016-01-01

Synovial joints are crucial for support and locomotion in vertebrates, and are the frequent site of serious skeletal defects and degenerative diseases in humans. Growth and differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5) is one of the earliest markers of joint formation, is required for normal joint development in both mice and humans, and has been genetically linked to risk of common osteoarthritis in Eurasian populations. Here, we systematically survey the mouse Gdf5 gene for regulatory elements controlling expression in synovial joints. We identify separate regions of the locus that control expression in axial tissues, in proximal versus distal joints in the limbs, and in remarkably specific sub-sets of composite joints like the elbow. Predicted transcription factor binding sites within Gdf5 regulatory enhancers are required for expression in particular joints. The multiple enhancers that control Gdf5 expression in different joints are distributed over a hundred kilobases of DNA, including regions both upstream and downstream of Gdf5 coding exons. Functional rescue tests in mice confirm that the large flanking regions are required to restore normal joint formation and patterning. Orthologs of these enhancers are located throughout the large genomic region previously associated with common osteoarthritis risk in humans. The large array of modular enhancers for Gdf5 provide a new foundation for studying the spatial specificity of joint patterning in vertebrates, as well as new candidates for regulatory regions that may also influence osteoarthritis risk in human populations. PMID:27902701

Kinematic control of redundant robots and the motion optimizability measure.

PubMed

Li, L; Gruver, W A; Zhang, Q; Yang, Z

2001-01-01

This paper treats the kinematic control of manipulators with redundant degrees of freedom. We derive an analytical solution for the inverse kinematics that provides a means for accommodating joint velocity constraints in real time. We define the motion optimizability measure and use it to develop an efficient method for the optimization of joint trajectories subject to multiple criteria. An implementation of the method for a 7-dof experimental redundant robot is present.

CMC Arthroplasty of the Thumb: A Review

PubMed Central

Ilyas, Asif; Thoder, Joseph J.

2007-01-01

Arthritis of the first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the hand is a common and often debilitating disease. Diagnosis can be readily made with history, physical exam, and radiographic evaluation. Patients with advanced disease who have failed conservative treatment modalities have multiple surgical options including ligament reconstruction, resection arthroplasty, silicone implantation, tendon interposition, or total joint arthroplasty. This article will describe the variety of approaches to treatment as well as the author’s preferred method. PMID:18780059

Orthopaedic Application Of Spatio Temporal Analysis Of Body Form And Function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tauber, C.; Au, J.; Bernstein, S.; Grant, A.; Pugh, J.

1983-07-01

Spatial and temporal analysis of walking provides the orthopaedist with objective evidence of functional ability and improvement in a patient. Patients with orthopaedic problems experiencing extreme pain and, consequently, irregularities in joint motions on weightbearing are videorecorded before, during and after a course of rehabilitative treatment and/or surgical correction of their disability. A specially-programmed computer analyzes these tapes for the parameters of walking by locating reflective spots which indicate the centers of the lower limb joints. The following parameters of gait are then generated: dynamic hip, knee and foot angles at various intervals during walking; vertical, horizontal and lateral displacements of each joint at various time intervals; linear and angular velocities of each joint; and the relationships between the joints during various phases of the gait cycle. The systematic sampling and analysis of the videorecordings by computer enable such information to be converted into and presented as computer graphics, as well as organized into tables of gait variables. This format of presentation of the skeletal adjustments involved in normal human motion provides the clinician with a visual format of gait information which objectively illuminates the multifaceted and complex factors involved. This system provides the clinician a method by which to evaluate the success of the regimen in terms of patient comfort and function.

Microbiological Aetiology, Epidemiology, and Clinical Profile of Prosthetic Joint Infections: Are Current Antibiotic Prophylaxis Guidelines Effective?

PubMed Central

Cheng, Allen C.; Buising, Kirsty L.; Choong, Peter F. M.

2012-01-01

Prosthetic joint infections remain a major complication of arthroplasty. At present, local and international guidelines recommend cefazolin as a surgical antibiotic prophylaxis at the time of arthroplasty. This retrospective cohort study conducted across 10 hospitals over a 3-year period (January 2006 to December 2008) investigated the epidemiology and microbiological etiology of prosthetic joint infections. There were 163 cases of prosthetic joint infection identified. From a review of the microbiological culture results, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and coagulase-negative staphylococci were isolated in 45% of infections. In addition, polymicrobial infections, particularly those involving Gram-negative bacilli and enterococcal species, were common (36%). The majority (88%) of patients received cefazolin as an antibiotic prophylaxis at the time of arthroplasty. In 63% of patients in this cohort, the microorganisms subsequently obtained were not susceptible to the antibiotic prophylaxis administered. The results of this study highlight the importance of ongoing reviews of the local ecology of prosthetic joint infection, demonstrating that the spectrum of pathogens involved is broad. The results should inform empirical antibiotic therapy. This report also provokes discussion about infection control strategies, including changing surgical antibiotic prophylaxis to a combination of glycopeptide and cefazolin, to reduce the incidence of infections due to methicillin-resistant staphylococci. PMID:22314530

Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome—Hypermobility Type: A Much Neglected Multisystemic Disorder

PubMed Central

Gazit, Yael; Jacob, Giris; Grahame, Rodney

2016-01-01

Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS)—hypermobility type (HT) is considered to be the most common subtype of EDS and the least severe one; EDS-HT is considered to be identical to the joint hypermobility syndrome and manifests with musculoskeletal complaints, joint instability, and soft tissue overuse injury. Musculoskeletal complaints manifest with joint pain of non-inflammatory origin and/or spinal pain. Joint instability leads to dislocation or subluxation and involves peripheral joints as well as central joints, including the temporomandibular joints, sacroiliac joints, and hip joints. Soft tissue overuse injury may lead to tendonitis and bursitis without joint inflammation in most cases. Ehlers–Danlos syndrome-HT carries a high potential for disability due to recurrent dislocations and subluxations and chronic pain. Throughout the years, extra-articular manifestations have been described, including cardiovascular, autonomic nervous system, gastrointestinal, hematologic, ocular, gynecologic, neurologic, and psychiatric manifestations, emphasizing the multisystemic nature of EDS-HT. Unfortunately, EDS-HT is under-recognized and inadequately managed, leading to neglect of these patients, which may lead to severe disability that almost certainly could have been avoided. In this review article we will describe the known manifestations of the extra-articular systems. PMID:27824552

The Multiple Control of Verbal Behavior

PubMed Central

Michael, Jack; Palmer, David C; Sundberg, Mark L

2011-01-01

Amid the novel terms and original analyses in Skinner's Verbal Behavior, the importance of his discussion of multiple control is easily missed, but multiple control of verbal responses is the rule rather than the exception. In this paper we summarize and illustrate Skinner's analysis of multiple control and introduce the terms convergent multiple control and divergent multiple control. We point out some implications for applied work and discuss examples of the role of multiple control in humor, poetry, problem solving, and recall. Joint control and conditional discrimination are discussed as special cases of multiple control. We suggest that multiple control is a useful analytic tool for interpreting virtually all complex behavior, and we consider the concepts of derived relations and naming as cases in point. PMID:22532752

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences: In Support of Montessori.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kahn, David

1996-01-01

Discusses the theory of multiple intelligences and Montessori practice as interpreted by Torff, Dubovoy, Baker, Hilliard, Zener, and Sillick (PS 524 854-859). Claims that Gardner and Montessori both look beyond the notion of fixed IQ, and their joint perception of human potential tends toward the boundless, and the belief that each child can make…

12 CFR 571.27 - Renewal of opt-out.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... period. Each opt-out renewal must be effective for a period of at least five years as provided in § 571... (ii) As part of a joint renewal notice from two or more members of an affiliated group of companies... provided by multiple companies with the ABC name or multiple companies in the ABC group or family of...

Attentional Processes in Interactions between People with Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities and Direct Support Staff

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ine, Hostyn; Heleen, Neerinckx; Bea, Maes

2011-01-01

Few studies have examined joint attention in interactions with persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD), despite its important role in high-quality interaction. The purpose of this study is to describe the attention-directing behaviours of persons with PIMD and their direct support staff and the attention episodes…

The relationship between hamstring length and gluteal muscle strength in individuals with sacroiliac joint dysfunction

PubMed Central

Massoud Arab, Amir; Reza Nourbakhsh, Mohammad; Mohammadifar, Ali

2011-01-01

It has been suggested that tight hamstring muscle, due to its anatomical connections, could be a compensatory mechanism for providing sacroiliac (SI) joint stability in patients with gluteal muscle weakness and SIJ dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between hamstring muscle length and gluteal muscle strength in subjects with sacroiliac joint dysfunction. A total of 159 subjects with and without low back pain (LBP) between the ages of 20 and 65 years participate in the study. Subjects were categorized into three groups: LBP without SIJ involvement (n = 53); back pain with SIJ dysfunction (n = 53); and no low back pain (n = 53). Hamstring muscle length and gluteal muscle strength were measured in all subjects. The number of individuals with gluteal weakness was significantly (P = 0.02) higher in subjects with SI joint dysfunction (66%) compared to those with LBP without SI joint dysfunctions (34%). In pooled data, there was no significant difference (P = 0.31) in hamstring muscle length between subjects with SI joint dysfunction and those with back pain without SI involvement. In subjects with SI joint dysfunction, however, those with gluteal muscle weakness had significantly (P = 0.02) shorter hamstring muscle length (mean = 158±11°) compared to individuals without gluteal weakness (mean = 165±10°). There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in hamstring muscle length between individuals with and without gluteal muscle weakness in other groups. In conclusion, hamstring tightness in subjects with SI joint dysfunction could be related to gluteal muscle weakness. The slight difference in hamstring muscle length found in this study, although statistically significant, was not sufficient for making any definite conclusions. Further studies are needed to establish the role of hamstring muscle in SI joint stability. PMID:22294848

The relationship between hamstring length and gluteal muscle strength in individuals with sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

PubMed

Massoud Arab, Amir; Reza Nourbakhsh, Mohammad; Mohammadifar, Ali

2011-02-01

It has been suggested that tight hamstring muscle, due to its anatomical connections, could be a compensatory mechanism for providing sacroiliac (SI) joint stability in patients with gluteal muscle weakness and SIJ dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between hamstring muscle length and gluteal muscle strength in subjects with sacroiliac joint dysfunction. A total of 159 subjects with and without low back pain (LBP) between the ages of 20 and 65 years participate in the study. Subjects were categorized into three groups: LBP without SIJ involvement (n = 53); back pain with SIJ dysfunction (n = 53); and no low back pain (n = 53). Hamstring muscle length and gluteal muscle strength were measured in all subjects. The number of individuals with gluteal weakness was significantly (P = 0.02) higher in subjects with SI joint dysfunction (66%) compared to those with LBP without SI joint dysfunctions (34%). In pooled data, there was no significant difference (P = 0.31) in hamstring muscle length between subjects with SI joint dysfunction and those with back pain without SI involvement. In subjects with SI joint dysfunction, however, those with gluteal muscle weakness had significantly (P = 0.02) shorter hamstring muscle length (mean = 158±11°) compared to individuals without gluteal weakness (mean = 165±10°). There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in hamstring muscle length between individuals with and without gluteal muscle weakness in other groups. In conclusion, hamstring tightness in subjects with SI joint dysfunction could be related to gluteal muscle weakness. The slight difference in hamstring muscle length found in this study, although statistically significant, was not sufficient for making any definite conclusions. Further studies are needed to establish the role of hamstring muscle in SI joint stability.

Side-to-side asymmetries in landing mechanics from a drop vertical jump test are not related to asymmetries in knee joint laxity following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

PubMed

Meyer, Christophe A G; Gette, Paul; Mouton, Caroline; Seil, Romain; Theisen, Daniel

2018-02-01

Asymmetries in knee joint biomechanics and increased knee joint laxity in patients following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) are considered risk factors for re-tear or early onset of osteoarthritis. Nevertheless, the relationship between these factors has not been established. The aim of the study was to compare knee mechanics during landing from a bilateral drop vertical jump in patients following ACLR and control participants and to study the relationship between side-to-side asymmetries in landing mechanics and knee joint laxity. Seventeen patients following ACLR were evaluated and compared to 28 healthy controls. Knee sagittal and frontal plane kinematics and kinetics were evaluated using three-dimensional motion capture (200 Hz) and two synchronized force platforms (1000 Hz). Static anterior and internal rotation knee laxities were measured for both groups and legs using dedicated arthrometers. Group and leg differences were investigated using a mixed model analysis of variance. The relationship between side-to-side differences in sagittal knee power/energy absorption and knee joint laxities was evaluated using univariate linear regression. A significant group-by-leg interaction (p = 0.010) was found for knee sagittal plane energy absorption, with patients having 25% lower values in their involved compared to their non-involved leg (1.22 ± 0.39 vs. 1.62 ± 0.40 J kg -1 ). Furthermore, knee sagittal plane energy absorption was 18% lower at their involved leg compared to controls (p = 0.018). Concomitantly, patients demonstrated a 27% higher anterior laxity of the involved knee compared to the non-involved knee, with an average side-to-side difference of 1.2 mm (p < 0.001). Laxity of the involved knee was also 30% higher than that of controls (p < 0.001) (leg-by-group interaction: p = 0.002). No relationship was found between sagittal plane energy absorption and knee laxity. Nine months following surgery, ACLR patients were shown to employ a knee unloading strategy of their involved leg during bilateral landing. However, this strategy was unrelated to their increased anterior knee laxity. Side-to-side asymmetries during simple bilateral landing tasks may put ACLR patients at increased risk of second ACL injury or early-onset osteoarthritis development. Detecting and correcting asymmetric landing strategies is highly relevant in the framework of personalized rehabilitation, which calls for complex biomechanical analyses to be applied in clinical routine. III.

Centralized Multi-Sensor Square Root Cubature Joint Probabilistic Data Association

PubMed Central

Liu, Jun; Li, Gang; Qi, Lin; Li, Yaowen; He, You

2017-01-01

This paper focuses on the tracking problem of multiple targets with multiple sensors in a nonlinear cluttered environment. To avoid Jacobian matrix computation and scaling parameter adjustment, improve numerical stability, and acquire more accurate estimated results for centralized nonlinear tracking, a novel centralized multi-sensor square root cubature joint probabilistic data association algorithm (CMSCJPDA) is proposed. Firstly, the multi-sensor tracking problem is decomposed into several single-sensor multi-target tracking problems, which are sequentially processed during the estimation. Then, in each sensor, the assignment of its measurements to target tracks is accomplished on the basis of joint probabilistic data association (JPDA), and a weighted probability fusion method with square root version of a cubature Kalman filter (SRCKF) is utilized to estimate the targets’ state. With the measurements in all sensors processed CMSCJPDA is derived and the global estimated state is achieved. Experimental results show that CMSCJPDA is superior to the state-of-the-art algorithms in the aspects of tracking accuracy, numerical stability, and computational cost, which provides a new idea to solve multi-sensor tracking problems. PMID:29113085

Centralized Multi-Sensor Square Root Cubature Joint Probabilistic Data Association.

PubMed

Liu, Yu; Liu, Jun; Li, Gang; Qi, Lin; Li, Yaowen; He, You

2017-11-05

This paper focuses on the tracking problem of multiple targets with multiple sensors in a nonlinear cluttered environment. To avoid Jacobian matrix computation and scaling parameter adjustment, improve numerical stability, and acquire more accurate estimated results for centralized nonlinear tracking, a novel centralized multi-sensor square root cubature joint probabilistic data association algorithm (CMSCJPDA) is proposed. Firstly, the multi-sensor tracking problem is decomposed into several single-sensor multi-target tracking problems, which are sequentially processed during the estimation. Then, in each sensor, the assignment of its measurements to target tracks is accomplished on the basis of joint probabilistic data association (JPDA), and a weighted probability fusion method with square root version of a cubature Kalman filter (SRCKF) is utilized to estimate the targets' state. With the measurements in all sensors processed CMSCJPDA is derived and the global estimated state is achieved. Experimental results show that CMSCJPDA is superior to the state-of-the-art algorithms in the aspects of tracking accuracy, numerical stability, and computational cost, which provides a new idea to solve multi-sensor tracking problems.

Risk factors for degenerative spondylolisthesis: a systematic review

PubMed Central

DeVine, John G.; Schenk-Kisser, Jeannette M.; Skelly, Andrea C.

2012-01-01

Study design: Systematic literature review. Rationale: Many authors have postulated on various risk factors associated with the pathogenesis of degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS), yet controversies regarding those risk factors still exist. Objective: To critically appraise and summarize evidence on risk factors for DS. Methods: Articles published before October 15, 2011, were systematically reviewed using PubMed and bibliographies of key articles. Each article was subject to quality rating and was analyzed by two independent reviewers. Results: From 382 citations, 30 underwent full-text review. Fourteen studies met inclusion criteria. All but two were considered poor quality. Female gender and higher facet joint angle were consistently associated with an increased risk of DS across multiple studies. Multiple studies also consistently reported no association between back pain and prolonged occupational sitting. Associations between age, parity, lumbosacral angle, lumbar lordosis, facet joint tropism, and pelvic inclination angles were inconsistent. Conclusions: There appears to be consistent evidence to suggest that the risk of DS increases with increasing age and is greater for females and people with a greater facet joint angle. PMID:23230415

Anesthetic Management of a Patient With Multiple Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Ohshita, Naohiro; Gamoh, Shoko; Kanazumi, Masahiko; Nakajima, Masahiro; Momota, Yoshihiro; Tsutsumi, Yasuo M.

2017-01-01

A 54-year-old woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 19 years was scheduled to undergo temporomandibular joint mobilization. She was currently in a remission phase from her MS but with persistent sequelae, including impaired eyesight and muscle weakness of the limbs. In addition, the blood vessels in her upper limbs were compromised by the formation of internal shunts secondary to vascular prosthesis replacements for plasma exchange therapy in MS. After a previous joint mobilization surgery, her temporomandibular joint developed adhesions with resultant trismus. One of the adverse effects of general anesthesia can be exacerbations of MS symptoms. Minimizing mental and physical stress caused by surgical and anesthetic procedures and maintenance of stable body temperature are important considerations. Awake intubation was performed under sedation with midazolam and fentanyl. After intubation, anesthesia was induced with propofol, remifentanil, and rocuronium. Maintenance of anesthesia was achieved with oxygen-N2O-sevoflurane, remifentanil, fentanyl, and rocuronium. In this case, no adverse events occurred intraoperatively. However, the patient experienced lingering weakness of the limbs in the postoperative period, and activities of daily living of the patient were affected. PMID:28604090

Cross-Population Joint Analysis of eQTLs: Fine Mapping and Functional Annotation

PubMed Central

Wen, Xiaoquan; Luca, Francesca; Pique-Regi, Roger

2015-01-01

Mapping expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) has been shown as a powerful tool to uncover the genetic underpinnings of many complex traits at molecular level. In this paper, we present an integrative analysis approach that leverages eQTL data collected from multiple population groups. In particular, our approach effectively identifies multiple independent cis-eQTL signals that are consistent across populations, accounting for population heterogeneity in allele frequencies and linkage disequilibrium patterns. Furthermore, by integrating genomic annotations, our analysis framework enables high-resolution functional analysis of eQTLs. We applied our statistical approach to analyze the GEUVADIS data consisting of samples from five population groups. From this analysis, we concluded that i) jointly analysis across population groups greatly improves the power of eQTL discovery and the resolution of fine mapping of causal eQTL ii) many genes harbor multiple independent eQTLs in their cis regions iii) genetic variants that disrupt transcription factor binding are significantly enriched in eQTLs (p-value = 4.93 × 10-22). PMID:25906321

Joint Identification of Genetic Variants for Physical Activity in Korean Population

PubMed Central

Kim, Jayoun; Kim, Jaehee; Min, Haesook; Oh, Sohee; Kim, Yeonjung; Lee, Andy H.; Park, Taesung

2014-01-01

There has been limited research on genome-wide association with physical activity (PA). This study ascertained genetic associations between PA and 344,893 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers in 8842 Korean samples. PA data were obtained from a validated questionnaire that included information on PA intensity and duration. Metabolic equivalent of tasks were calculated to estimate the total daily PA level for each individual. In addition to single- and multiple-SNP association tests, a pathway enrichment analysis was performed to identify the biological significance of SNP markers. Although no significant SNP was found at genome-wide significance level via single-SNP association tests, 59 genetic variants mapped to 76 genes were identified via a multiple SNP approach using a bootstrap selection stability measure. Pathway analysis for these 59 variants showed that maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) was enriched. Joint identification of SNPs could enable the identification of multiple SNPs with good predictive power for PA and a pathway enriched for PA. PMID:25026172

Joint Channel and Phase Noise Estimation in MIMO-OFDM Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ngebani, I. M.; Chuma, J. M.; Zibani, I.; Matlotse, E.; Tsamaase, K.

2017-05-01

The combination of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) techniques with orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), MIMO-OFDM, is a promising way of achieving high spectral efficiency in wireless communication systems. However, the performance of MIMO-ODFM systems is highly degraded by radio frequency (RF) impairments such as phase noise. Similar to the single-input single-output (SISO) case, phase noise in MIMO-OFDM systems results in a common phase error (CPE) and inter carrier interference (ICI). In this paper the problem of joint channel and phase noise estimation in a system with multiple transmit and receive antennas where each antenna is equipped with its own independent oscillator is tackled. The technique employed makes use of a novel placement of pilot carriers in the preamble and data portion of the MIMO-OFDM frame. Numerical results using a 16 and 64 quadrature amplitude modulation QAM schemes are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme for MIMO-OFDM systems.

The role of proprioception and neuromuscular stability in carpal instabilities.

PubMed

Hagert, E; Lluch, A; Rein, S

2016-01-01

Carpal stability has traditionally been defined as dependent on the articular congruity of joint surfaces, the static stability maintained by intact ligaments, and the dynamic stability caused by muscle contractions resulting in a compression of joint surfaces. In the past decade, a fourth factor in carpal stability has been proposed, involving the neuromuscular and proprioceptive control of joints. The proprioception of the wrist originates from afferent signals elicited by sensory end organs (mechanoreceptors) in ligaments and joint capsules that elicit spinal reflexes for immediate joint stability, as well as higher order neuromuscular influx to the cerebellum and sensorimotor cortices for planning and executing joint control. The aim of this review is to provide an understanding of the role of proprioception and neuromuscular control in carpal instabilities by delineating the sensory innervation and the neuromuscular control of the carpus, as well as descriptions of clinical applications of proprioception in carpal instabilities. © The Author(s) 2015.

Craniovertebral realignment for basilar invagination and atlantoaxial dislocation secondary to rheumatoid arthritis.

PubMed

Goel, Atul; Sharma, Praveen

2004-09-01

We present our experience of treating nine consecutive cases of rheumatoid arthritis involving the craniovertebral junction by atlantoaxial joint manipulation and attempts towards restoration of craniovertebral region alignments. Between November 2001 and March 2004, nine cases of rheumatoid arthritis involving the craniovertebral junction were treated in our department of neurosurgery. Six patients had basilar invagination and 'fixed' atlantoaxial dislocation and three patients had a retroodontoid process pannus and mobile and incompletely reducible atlantoaxial dislocation. The patients ranged from 24 to 74 years in age. Six patients were males and three were females. Neck pain and spastic quadriparesis were the most prominent symptoms. Surgery involved attempts to reduce the atlantoaxial dislocation and basilar invagination by manual distraction of the facets of the atlas and axis. Reduction of the atlantoaxial dislocation and of basilar invagination and stabilization of the region was achieved by placement of bone graft and metal spacers within the joint and direct inter-articular plate and screw method of atlantoaxial fixation. Following surgery all the patients showed symptomatic improvement and restoration of craniovertebral alignments. Follow-up ranged from four to 48 months (average 28 months). Manipulation of the atlantoaxial joints and restoring the anatomical craniovertebral alignments in selected cases of rheumatoid arthritis involving the craniovertebral junction leads to remarkable and sustained clinical recovery.

Actinobaculum schaalii, a new cause of knee prosthetic joint infection in elderly.

PubMed

Jacquier, H; Benmansour, H; Zadegan, F; Hannouche, D; Micaelo, M; Mongiat-Artus, P; Salomon, E; Cambau, E; Berçot, B

2016-08-01

Actinobaculum schaalii is an emerging pathogen particularly involved in urinary tract infection of elderly people and/or patient with urological risk factors of urinary tract infection. This microorganism is a difficult-to-diagnose pathogen and is rarely involved in systemic or deep infections. Here, we report the first case of prosthetic joint infection due to A. schaalii in an 84-year-old man with a benign prostatic hyperplasia associated with chronic retention of urine. This case underlines the importance to optimize the diagnosis of emerging uropathogens as A. schaalii, to prevent systemic infections, particularly in patients with orthopaedic implants.

Gender differences in joint biomechanics during walking: normative study in young adults.

PubMed

Kerrigan, D C; Todd, M K; Della Croce, U

1998-01-01

The effect of gender on specific joint biomechanics during gait has been largely unexplored. Given the perceived, subjective, and temporal differences in walking between genders, we hypothesized that quantitative analysis would reveal specific gender differences in joint biomechanics as well. Sagittal kinematic (joint motion) and kinetic (joint torque and power) data from the lower limbs during walking were collected and analyzed in 99 young adult subjects (49 females), aged 20 to 40 years, using an optoelectronic motion analysis and force platform system. Kinetic data were normalized for both height and weight. Female and male data were compared graphically and statistically to assess differences in all major peak joint kinematic and kinetic values. Females had significantly greater hip flexion and less knee extension before initial contact, greater knee flexion moment in pre-swing, and greater peak mechanical joint power absorption at the knee in pre-swing (P < 0.0019 for each parameter). Other differences were noted (P < 0.05) that were not statistically significant when accounting for multiple comparisons. These gender differences may provide new insights into walking dynamics and may be important for both clinical and research studies in motivating the development of separate biomechanical reference databases for males and females.

Management of the patient with a total joint replacement: the primary care practitioner's role.

PubMed

Palmer, L M

1999-01-01

The primary care practitioner assumes chief responsibility for patients with arthritis. More than 40 million Americans experience some form of arthritis. Management of the patient with arthritis may include a referral to an orthopedic surgeon for surgical intervention. As estimated, up to 500,000 total joint replacement procedures are performed by orthopedic surgeons each year in the United States. Presurgical evaluation for a total joint replacement is imperative to ensure that the patient can safely undergo this surgical procedure. Postsurgical care of a patient with total joint replacement involves coordinating care with the physical therapist and orthopedic surgeon to ensure adequate follow-through with the recommended rehabilitation program, prophylactic antibiotic coverage, and observation for any complications including infection, deep-vein thrombosis, or loosening of the total-joint prosthesis.

Thermomechanical treatment of welded joints of aluminum-lithium alloys modified by scandium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malikov, A. G.

2017-12-01

At present, the aeronautical equipment manufacture involves up-to-date high-strength aluminum alloys of decreased density resulting from the lithium admixture. Various technologies of fusible welding of these alloys are being developed. The paper presents experimental investigations of the optimization of the laser welding of aluminum alloys with the scandium-modified welded joint after thermomechanical treatment. The effect of scandium on the micro- and macrostructure is studied along with strength characteristics of the welded joint. It is found that thermomechanical treatment allows us to obtain the strength of the welded joint 0.89 for the Al-Mg-Li system and 0.99 for the Al-Cu-Li system with the welded joint modified by scandium in comparison with the base alloy after treatment.

Review on failure prediction techniques of composite single lap joint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ab Ghani, A.F., E-mail: ahmadfuad@utem.edu.my; Rivai, Ahmad, E-mail: ahmadrivai@utem.edu.my

2016-03-29

Adhesive bonding is the most appropriate joining method in construction of composite structures. The use of reliable design and prediction technique will produce better performance of bonded joints. Several papers from recent papers and journals have been reviewed and synthesized to understand the current state of the art in this area. It is done by studying the most relevant analytical solutions for composite adherends with start of reviewing the most fundamental ones involving beam/plate theory. It is then extended to review single lap joint non linearity and failure prediction and finally on the failure prediction on composite single lap joint.more » The review also encompasses the finite element modelling part as tool to predict the elastic response of composite single lap joint and failure prediction numerically.« less

Extrinsic and intrinsic index finger muscle attachments in an OpenSim upper-extremity model.

PubMed

Lee, Jong Hwa; Asakawa, Deanna S; Dennerlein, Jack T; Jindrich, Devin L

2015-04-01

Musculoskeletal models allow estimation of muscle function during complex tasks. We used objective methods to determine possible attachment locations for index finger muscles in an OpenSim upper-extremity model. Data-driven optimization algorithms, Simulated Annealing and Hook-Jeeves, estimated tendon locations crossing the metacarpophalangeal (MCP), proximal interphalangeal (PIP) and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints by minimizing the difference between model-estimated and experimentally-measured moment arms. Sensitivity analysis revealed that multiple sets of muscle attachments with similar optimized moment arms are possible, requiring additional assumptions or data to select a single set of values. The most smooth muscle paths were assumed to be biologically reasonable. Estimated tendon attachments resulted in variance accounted for (VAF) between calculated moment arms and measured values of 78% for flex/extension and 81% for ab/adduction at the MCP joint. VAF averaged 67% at the PIP joint and 54% at the DIP joint. VAF values at PIP and DIP joints partially reflected the constant moment arms reported for muscles about these joints. However, all moment arm values found through optimization were non-linear and non-constant. Relationships between moment arms and joint angles were best described with quadratic equations for tendons at the PIP and DIP joints.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of rat knee joint using episcopic fluorescence image capture.

PubMed

Takaishi, R; Aoyama, T; Zhang, X; Higuchi, S; Yamada, S; Takakuwa, T

2014-10-01

Development of the knee joint was morphologically investigated, and the process of cavitation was analyzed by using episcopic fluorescence image capture (EFIC) to create spatial and temporal three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions. Knee joints of Wister rat embryos between embryonic day (E)14 and E20 were investigated. Samples were sectioned and visualized using an EFIC. Then, two-dimensional image stacks were reconstructed using OsiriX software, and 3D reconstructions were generated using Amira software. Cavitations of the knee joint were constructed from five divided portions. Cavity formation initiated at multiple sites at E17; among them, the femoropatellar cavity (FPC) was the first. Cavitations of the medial side preceded those of the lateral side. Each cavity connected at E20 when cavitations around the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) were completed. Cavity formation initiated from six portions. In each portion, development proceeded asymmetrically. These results concerning anatomical development of the knee joint using EFIC contribute to a better understanding of the structural feature of the knee joint. Copyright © 2014 Osteoarthritis Research Society International. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Features that exacerbate fatigue severity in joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - hypermobility type.

PubMed

Krahe, Anne Maree; Adams, Roger David; Nicholson, Leslie Lorenda

2018-08-01

To assess the prevalence, severity and impact of fatigue on individuals with joint hypermobility syndrome (JHS)/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - hypermobility type (EDS-HT) and establish potential determinants of fatigue severity in this population. Questionnaires on symptoms and signs related to fatigue, quality of life, mental health, physical activity participation and sleep quality were completed by people with JHS/EDS-HT recruited through two social media sites. Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of fatigue in this population. Significant fatigue was reported by 79.5% of the 117 participants. Multiple regression analysis identified five predictors of fatigue severity, four being potentially modifiable, accounting for 52.3% of the variance in reported fatigue scores. Predictors of fatigue severity were: the self-perceived extent of joint hypermobility, orthostatic dizziness related to heat and exercise, levels of participation in personal relationships and community, current levels of physical activity and dissatisfaction with the diagnostic process and management options provided for their condition. Fatigue is a significant symptom associated with JHS/EDS-HT. Assessment of individuals with this condition should include measures of fatigue severity to enable targeted management of potentially modifiable factors associated with fatigue severity. Implications for rehabilitation Fatigue is a significant symptom reported by individuals affected by joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - hypermobility type. Potentially modifiable features that contribute to fatigue severity in this population have been identified. Targeted management of these features may decrease the severity and impact of fatigue in joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome - hypermobility type.

The Genetic Basis of Upland/Lowland Ecotype Divergence in Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

DOE PAGES

Milano, E. R.; Lowry, D. B.; Juenger, T. E.

2016-09-09

The evolution of locally adapted ecotypes is a common phenomenon that generates diversity within plant species. However, we know surprisingly little about the genetic mechanisms underlying the locally adapted traits involved in ecotype formation. The genetic architecture underlying locally adapted traits dictates how an organism will respond to environmental selection pressures, and has major implications for evolutionary ecology, conservation, and crop breeding. To understand the genetic architecture underlying the divergence of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) ecotypes, we constructed a genetic mapping population through a four-way outbred cross between two northern upland and two southern lowland accessions. Trait segregation in this mappingmore » population was largely consistent with multiple independent loci controlling the suite of traits that characterizes ecotype divergence. We assembled a joint linkage map using ddRADseq, and mapped quantitative trait loci (QTL) for traits that are divergent between ecotypes, including flowering time, plant size, physiological processes, and disease resistance. Overall, we found that most QTL had small to intermediate effects. While we identified colocalizing QTL for multiple traits, we did not find any large-effect QTL that clearly controlled multiple traits through pleiotropy or tight physical linkage. These results indicate that ecologically important traits in switchgrass have a complex genetic basis, and that similar loci may underlie divergence across the geographic range of the ecotypes.« less

Etiology in psychiatry: embracing the reality of poly‐gene‐environmental causation of mental illness

PubMed Central

Uher, Rudolf; Zwicker, Alyson

2017-01-01

Intriguing findings on genetic and environmental causation suggest a need to reframe the etiology of mental disorders. Molecular genetics shows that thousands of common and rare genetic variants contribute to mental illness. Epidemiological studies have identified dozens of environmental exposures that are associated with psychopathology. The effect of environment is likely conditional on genetic factors, resulting in gene‐environment interactions. The impact of environmental factors also depends on previous exposures, resulting in environment‐environment interactions. Most known genetic and environmental factors are shared across multiple mental disorders. Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, in particular, are closely causally linked. Synthesis of findings from twin studies, molecular genetics and epidemiological research suggests that joint consideration of multiple genetic and environmental factors has much greater explanatory power than separate studies of genetic or environmental causation. Multi‐factorial gene‐environment interactions are likely to be a generic mechanism involved in the majority of cases of mental illness, which is only partially tapped by existing gene‐environment studies. Future research may cut across psychiatric disorders and address poly‐causation by considering multiple genetic and environmental measures across the life course with a specific focus on the first two decades of life. Integrative analyses of poly‐causation including gene‐environment and environment‐environment interactions can realize the potential for discovering causal types and mechanisms that are likely to generate new preventive and therapeutic tools. PMID:28498595

The Genetic Basis of Upland/Lowland Ecotype Divergence in Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Milano, E. R.; Lowry, D. B.; Juenger, T. E.

The evolution of locally adapted ecotypes is a common phenomenon that generates diversity within plant species. However, we know surprisingly little about the genetic mechanisms underlying the locally adapted traits involved in ecotype formation. The genetic architecture underlying locally adapted traits dictates how an organism will respond to environmental selection pressures, and has major implications for evolutionary ecology, conservation, and crop breeding. To understand the genetic architecture underlying the divergence of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) ecotypes, we constructed a genetic mapping population through a four-way outbred cross between two northern upland and two southern lowland accessions. Trait segregation in this mappingmore » population was largely consistent with multiple independent loci controlling the suite of traits that characterizes ecotype divergence. We assembled a joint linkage map using ddRADseq, and mapped quantitative trait loci (QTL) for traits that are divergent between ecotypes, including flowering time, plant size, physiological processes, and disease resistance. Overall, we found that most QTL had small to intermediate effects. While we identified colocalizing QTL for multiple traits, we did not find any large-effect QTL that clearly controlled multiple traits through pleiotropy or tight physical linkage. These results indicate that ecologically important traits in switchgrass have a complex genetic basis, and that similar loci may underlie divergence across the geographic range of the ecotypes.« less

Study for Updated Gout Classification Criteria (SUGAR): identification of features to classify gout

PubMed Central

Taylor, William J.; Fransen, Jaap; Jansen, Tim L.; Dalbeth, Nicola; Schumacher, H. Ralph; Brown, Melanie; Louthrenoo, Worawit; Vazquez-Mellado, Janitzia; Eliseev, Maxim; McCarthy, Geraldine; Stamp, Lisa K.; Perez-Ruiz, Fernando; Sivera, Francisca; Ea, Hang-Korng; Gerritsen, Martijn; Scire, Carlo; Cavagna, Lorenzo; Lin, Chingtsai; Chou, Yin-Yi; Tausche, Anne-Kathrin; Vargas-Santos, Ana Beatriz; Janssen, Matthijs; Chen, Jiunn-Horng; Slot, Ole; Cimmino, Marco A.; Uhlig, Till; Neogi, Tuhina

2015-01-01

Objective To determine which clinical, laboratory and imaging features most accurately distinguished gout from non-gout. Methods A cross-sectional study of consecutive rheumatology clinic patients with at least one swollen joint or subcutaneous tophus. Gout was defined by synovial fluid or tophus aspirate microscopy by certified examiners in all patients. The sample was randomly divided into a model development (2/3) and test sample (1/3). Univariate and multivariate association between clinical features and MSU-defined gout was determined using logistic regression modelling. Shrinkage of regression weights was performed to prevent over-fitting of the final model. Latent class analysis was conducted to identify patterns of joint involvement. Results In total, 983 patients were included. Gout was present in 509 (52%). In the development sample (n=653), these features were selected for the final model (multivariate OR) joint erythema (2.13), difficulty walking (7.34), time to maximal pain < 24 hours (1.32), resolution by 2 weeks (3.58), tophus (7.29), MTP1 ever involved (2.30), location of currently tender joints: Other foot/ankle (2.28), MTP1 (2.82), serum urate level > 6 mg/dl (0.36 mmol/l) (3.35), ultrasound double contour sign (7.23), Xray erosion or cyst (2.49). The final model performed adequately in the test set with no evidence of misfit, high discrimination and predictive ability. MTP1 involvement was the most common joint pattern (39.4%) in gout cases. Conclusion Ten key discriminating features have been identified for further evaluation for new gout classification criteria. Ultrasound findings and degree of uricemia add discriminating value, and will significantly contribute to more accurate classification criteria. PMID:25777045

Use of commercially available foam pipe insulation as a protective device for wounds over the elbow joint area in five dogs.

PubMed

Pavletic, Michael M

2011-11-01

4 large-breed dogs were referred because of nonhealing skin wounds involving the elbow joint area of several weeks to months in duration. One additional large-breed dog was evaluated because of a draining abscess with overlying skin necrosis. Previous attempts at closing each wound over the elbow joint area had been unsuccessful. At the time of hospital admission, open wounds had variable degrees of bacterial contamination and infection. Open wounds over the elbow joint area were closed by use of bipedicle advancement flaps or direct suture apposition of opposing sides of the wound. Lengths of pipe insulation were applied to the forelimb in a fashion to prevent contact pressure to the olecranon for a prolonged period (4 to 13 weeks) after surgery. All wounds healed completely. Release incisions (donor areas) healed by second intention within 3 weeks after surgery. One dog developed periostitis of the olecranon, which responded to antimicrobial administration. A second dog developed a skin bacterial infection below the surgical area that was markedly resistant to antimicrobials. The layered application of commercially available foam pipe insulation provided a simple and economical protective device after closure of problematic skin wounds involving the elbow joint area. Prolonged protection of the olecranon area helped to assure healing was complete and skin coverage was sufficiently stable to reduce the risk of reinjury after removal of the device. Each patient was able to use the involved forelimb during the treatment period. Paired bipedicle advancement flaps (release incisions) were particularly useful for closing small to moderate defects overlying the olecranon in which simple apposition was not feasible.

Photoisomerization and photoionization of the photoactive yellow protein chromophore in solution.

PubMed

Larsen, Delmar S; Vengris, Mikas; van Stokkum, Ivo H M; van der Horst, Michael A; de Weerd, Frank L; Hellingwerf, Klaas J; van Grondelle, Rienk

2004-04-01

Dispersed pump-dump-probe spectroscopy has the ability to characterize and identify the underlying ultrafast dynamical processes in complicated chemical and biological systems. This technique builds on traditional pump-probe techniques by exploring both ground- and excited-state dynamics and characterizing the connectivity between constituent transient states. We have used the dispersed pump-dump-probe technique to investigate the ground-state dynamics and competing excited-state processes in the excitation-induced ultrafast dynamics of thiomethyl p-coumaric acid, a model chromophore for the photoreceptor photoactive yellow protein. Our results demonstrate the parallel formation of two relaxation pathways (with multiple transient states) that jointly lead to two different types of photochemistry: cis-trans isomerization and detachment of a hydrated electron. The relative transition rates and quantum yields of both pathways have been determined. We find that the relaxation of the photoexcited chromophores involves multiple, transient ground-state intermediates and the chromophore in solution does not generate persistent photoisomerized products, but instead undergoes photoionization resulting in the generation of detached electrons and radicals. These results are of great value in interpreting the more complex dynamical changes in the optical properties of the photoactive yellow protein.

Photoisomerization and Photoionization of the Photoactive Yellow Protein Chromophore in Solution

PubMed Central

Larsen, Delmar S.; Vengris, Mikas; van Stokkum, Ivo H. M.; van der Horst, Michael A.; de Weerd, Frank L.; Hellingwerf, Klaas J.; van Grondelle, Rienk

2004-01-01

Dispersed pump-dump-probe spectroscopy has the ability to characterize and identify the underlying ultrafast dynamical processes in complicated chemical and biological systems. This technique builds on traditional pump-probe techniques by exploring both ground- and excited-state dynamics and characterizing the connectivity between constituent transient states. We have used the dispersed pump-dump-probe technique to investigate the ground-state dynamics and competing excited-state processes in the excitation-induced ultrafast dynamics of thiomethyl p-coumaric acid, a model chromophore for the photoreceptor photoactive yellow protein. Our results demonstrate the parallel formation of two relaxation pathways (with multiple transient states) that jointly lead to two different types of photochemistry: cis-trans isomerization and detachment of a hydrated electron. The relative transition rates and quantum yields of both pathways have been determined. We find that the relaxation of the photoexcited chromophores involves multiple, transient ground-state intermediates and the chromophore in solution does not generate persistent photoisomerized products, but instead undergoes photoionization resulting in the generation of detached electrons and radicals. These results are of great value in interpreting the more complex dynamical changes in the optical properties of the photoactive yellow protein. PMID:15041690

Multiple imputation by chained equations for systematically and sporadically missing multilevel data.

PubMed

Resche-Rigon, Matthieu; White, Ian R

2018-06-01

In multilevel settings such as individual participant data meta-analysis, a variable is 'systematically missing' if it is wholly missing in some clusters and 'sporadically missing' if it is partly missing in some clusters. Previously proposed methods to impute incomplete multilevel data handle either systematically or sporadically missing data, but frequently both patterns are observed. We describe a new multiple imputation by chained equations (MICE) algorithm for multilevel data with arbitrary patterns of systematically and sporadically missing variables. The algorithm is described for multilevel normal data but can easily be extended for other variable types. We first propose two methods for imputing a single incomplete variable: an extension of an existing method and a new two-stage method which conveniently allows for heteroscedastic data. We then discuss the difficulties of imputing missing values in several variables in multilevel data using MICE, and show that even the simplest joint multilevel model implies conditional models which involve cluster means and heteroscedasticity. However, a simulation study finds that the proposed methods can be successfully combined in a multilevel MICE procedure, even when cluster means are not included in the imputation models.

An Illustrative Guide to the Minerva Framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Flom, Erik; Leonard, Patrick; Hoeffel, Udo; Kwak, Sehyun; Pavone, Andrea; Svensson, Jakob; Krychowiak, Maciej; Wendelstein 7-X Team Collaboration

2017-10-01

Modern phsyics experiments require tracking and modelling data and their associated uncertainties on a large scale, as well as the combined implementation of multiple independent data streams for sophisticated modelling and analysis. The Minerva Framework offers a centralized, user-friendly method of large-scale physics modelling and scientific inference. Currently used by teams at multiple large-scale fusion experiments including the Joint European Torus (JET) and Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X), the Minerva framework provides a forward-model friendly architecture for developing and implementing models for large-scale experiments. One aspect of the framework involves so-called data sources, which are nodes in the graphical model. These nodes are supplied with engineering and physics parameters. When end-user level code calls a node, it is checked network-wide against its dependent nodes for changes since its last implementation and returns version-specific data. Here, a filterscope data node is used as an illustrative example of the Minerva Framework's data management structure and its further application to Bayesian modelling of complex systems. This work has been carried out within the framework of the EUROfusion Consortium and has received funding from the Euratom research and training programme 2014-2018 under Grant Agreement No. 633053.

Challenges of Implementing a Communication-and-Resolution Program Where Multiple Organizations Must Cooperate.

PubMed

Mello, Michelle M; Armstrong, Sarah J; Greenberg, Yelena; McCotter, Patricia I; Gallagher, Thomas H

2016-12-01

To implement a communication-and-resolution program (CRP) in a setting in which liability insurers and health care facilities must collaborate to resolve incidents involving a facility and separately insured clinicians. Six hospitals and clinics and a liability insurer in Washington State. Sites designed and implemented CRPs and contributed information about cases and operational challenges over 20 months. Data were qualitatively analyzed. Data from interviews with personnel responsible for CRP implementation were triangulated with data on program cases collected by sites and notes recorded during meetings with sites and among project team members. Sites experienced small victories in resolving particular cases and streamlining some working relationships, but they were unable to successfully implement a collaborative CRP. Barriers included the insurer's distance from the point of care, passive rather than active support from top leaders, coordinating across departments and organizations, workload, nonparticipation by some physicians, and overcoming distrust. Operating CRPs where multiple organizations must collaborate can be highly challenging. Success likely requires several preconditions, including preexisting trust among organizations, active leadership engagement, physicians' commitment to participate, mechanisms for quickly transmitting information to insurers, tolerance for missteps, and clear protocols for joint investigations and resolutions. © Health Research and Educational Trust.

[Surgery of ipsilateral Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and ankle joint fractures via internal and lateral approaches with Herbert screws].

PubMed

Zhang, P; Dong, Q R; Wang, Z Y; Chen, B; Wan, J H; Wang, L

2016-11-08

Objective: To explore the manual operation skills of operative treatment of ipsilateral Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and ankle joint fractures via internal and lateral approaches with Herbert screws, and to study the clinical results. Method: From Jan 2009 to Dec 2014, the clinical data of 13 patients with ipsilateral Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and ankle joint fractres via internal and lateral approaches with Herbert screws were retrospectively analyzed in our department.There were 10 males and 3 female, ranging in age from 20 to 60 years with an average age of 31.5 years.The fractures occurred on the right side in 9 patients and on the left side in 4 patients.Three cases had the complication of medial malleolar fracture.Ten cases had the complication of medial and lateral malleolar fracture. Totally 11 cases were made calcaneal skeletal traction, and all the were made CT with three-dimensional image reconstruction.Two cases were treated with emergency operation.Eleven cases were treated with selective operation.The operation time was 5 hours-10 days after injury. The functional results were evaluated by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS). Result: The average duration of follow-up was 22.6 months (range, 14-65 months). There was skin necrosis in one cases, no incision infection, malunion and nonunion of the fractures and loss of reduction. At final follow-up, AOFAS ankle score was 75.2 (range, 42 to 93), higher than preoperative 39.2 (range, 23 to 60), the difference was statistically significant ( P =0.023). The result was excellent in 4 cases, good in 5 cases, fair in 3 cases and 1 cases in poor, and the overall excellent or good rate was 69.2%. Avascular necrosis occurred in 3 cases (23.1%, 3/13). Traumatic arthritis was found in 5 cases (38.5%, 5/13), involved tibial astragaloid joint in 2 cases, involved subtalar joint in 1 case, involved tibial astragaloid joint and subtalar joint in 2 cases. Conclusion: The effect of surgical treatment for ipsilateral Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and ankle joint fractures via internal and lateral approaches with Herbert screws is satisfactory.Correct operative approach and pay more attention to protect blood circulation of intraoperative, anatomical precision and strong reduction and fixation are the key to achieve and gain better long-term results for the surgical treatment of ipsilateral Hawkins Ⅲ talus neck and ankle joint fractures.

Efficient methods for joint estimation of multiple fundamental frequencies in music signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pertusa, Antonio; Iñesta, José M.

2012-12-01

This study presents efficient techniques for multiple fundamental frequency estimation in music signals. The proposed methodology can infer harmonic patterns from a mixture considering interactions with other sources and evaluate them in a joint estimation scheme. For this purpose, a set of fundamental frequency candidates are first selected at each frame, and several hypothetical combinations of them are generated. Combinations are independently evaluated, and the most likely is selected taking into account the intensity and spectral smoothness of its inferred patterns. The method is extended considering adjacent frames in order to smooth the detection in time, and a pitch tracking stage is finally performed to increase the temporal coherence. The proposed algorithms were evaluated in MIREX contests yielding state of the art results with a very low computational burden.

Concurrent Path Planning with One or More Humanoid Robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reiland, Matthew J. (Inventor); Sanders, Adam M. (Inventor)

2014-01-01

A robotic system includes a controller and one or more robots each having a plurality of robotic joints. Each of the robotic joints is independently controllable to thereby execute a cooperative work task having at least one task execution fork, leading to multiple independent subtasks. The controller coordinates motion of the robot(s) during execution of the cooperative work task. The controller groups the robotic joints into task-specific robotic subsystems, and synchronizes motion of different subsystems during execution of the various subtasks of the cooperative work task. A method for executing the cooperative work task using the robotic system includes automatically grouping the robotic joints into task-specific subsystems, and assigning subtasks of the cooperative work task to the subsystems upon reaching a task execution fork. The method further includes coordinating execution of the subtasks after reaching the task execution fork.

Implementation of Joint Multi-Segment Training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reagan, Marc; Smith, Wyatt; Bugrova, Skella; Silkov, Sergei

2000-01-01

The highest level of training for ISS flight is Joint Multi-Segment Training (JMST) simulations. These simulations allow two or more partners to conduct multi-segment training for their respective Mission Control Centers (MCC), include actual crew members, and usually include training facilities in each of the participating International Partner (IP) locations. It is the dress rehearsal for those events that exercise the interface between different IP modules and/or the decision making process between the different MCCs involved. This presentation will describe the challenge of successfully implementing JMST. It will start with a brief overview of who is involved, where they are located, and when JMSTs are required. Finally, it will illustrate many of the complications involved in just running a JMST between MCC-M and MCC-H. The viewer will leave with a much better appreciation for the complexities involved in successfully conducting a JMST of this nature, as well as an idea of how the picture will change as the other partners and payloads become involved.

ICG-enhanced imaging of arthritis with an integrated Optical Imaging/X-ray System

PubMed Central

Meier, Reinhard; Krug, Christian; Golovko, Daniel; Boddington, Sophie; Piontek, Guido; Rudelius, Martina; Sutton, Elizabeth J.; Baur-Melnyk, Andrea; Jones, Ella F.; Daldrup-Link, Heike E.

2010-01-01

Background Optical Imaging (OI) is a promising technique that is quick, inexpensive and, in combination with Indocyanine Green (ICG), an FDA-approved fluorescent dye, could provide early detection of rheumatoid arthritis. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate a combined X-ray/OI imaging system for ICG-enhanced detection of arthritic joints in a rat model of antigen induced arthritis. Methods Arthritis of the knee and ankle joints was induced in six Harlan rats with peptidoglycan polysaccharide polymers (PGPS). Three rats served as non-treated controls. Optical imaging of the knee and ankle joints was done with an integrated OI/X-ray system before and up to 24h post intravenous injection (p.i.) of 10mg/kg ICG. The fluorescence signal intensities of arthritic and normal joints were compared for significant differences using generalized estimation equation models. Specimen of knee and ankle joints were further processed and evaluated by histology. Results ICG provided a significant increase in fluorescence signal of arthritic joints compared to baseline values immediately after administration (p<0.05). The fluorescence signal of arthritic joints was significantly higher compared to the non-arthritic control joints at 1 - 720 min p.i. (p<0.05). Fusion of ICG-enhanced OI and X-rays allowed for anatomical co-registration of the inflamed tissue with the associated joint. H&E stains confirmed marked synovial inflammation of arthritic joints and absence of inflammation in control joints. Conclusion ICG-enhanced OI is a clinically applicable tool for detection of arthritic tissue. Using relatively high doses of ICG, a long term fluorescence enhancement of arthritic joints can be achieved. This may facilitate simultaneous evaluations of multiple joints in a clinical setting. Fusion of ICG-OI scans with X-ray imaging increases anatomical resolution. PMID:20506388

[The temporomandibular joint and inflammatory rheumatic diseases].

PubMed

Marotte, H

2016-09-01

Some inflammatory rheumatic diseases can involve the temporomandibular joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis and spondylarthritis. The aim of our work was to evaluate the current prevalence of these inflammatory TMJ diseases, to indicate the new therapeutics and to describe the collaboration between rheumatologist and maxillofacial surgeon in these pathologies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

In Peer Matters, Teachers Matter: Peer Group Influences on Students' Engagement Depend on Teacher Involvement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vollet, Justin W.; Kindermann, Thomas A.; Skinner, Ellen A.

2017-01-01

This study focused on the joint effects of teachers and peer groups as predictors of change in students' engagement during the first year of middle school, when the importance of peer relationships normatively increases and the quality of teacher-student relationships typically declines. To explore cumulative and contextualized joint effects, the…

Supporting Parents to Facilitate Communication and Joint Attention in Their Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Two Pilot Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prelock, Patricia A.; Calhoun, James; Morris, Hope; Platt, Gretchen

2011-01-01

This article describes 2 pilot studies partnering early interventionists and families in targeting social communication and joint attention abilities for young children with autism spectrum disorders. Both parent-intervention trainings involved opportunities for interventionists to partner with families. One pilot utilized "More than Words" (MTW;…

A Test Method for Monitoring Modulus Changes during Durability Tests on Building Joint Sealants

Treesearch

Christopher C. White; Donald L. Hunston; Kar Tean Tan; Gregory T. Schueneman

2012-01-01

The durability of building joint sealants is generally assessed using a descriptive methodology involving visual inspection of exposed specimens for defects. It is widely known that this methodology has inherent limitations, including that the results are qualitative. A new test method is proposed that provides more fundamental and quantitative information about...

A Joint Learning Activity in Process Control and Distance Collaboration between Future Engineers and Technicians

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Deschênes, Jean-Sebastien; Barka, Noureddine; Michaud, Mario; Paradis, Denis; Brousseau, Jean

2013-01-01

A joint learning activity in process control is presented, in the context of a distance collaboration between engineering and technical-level students, in a similar fashion as current practices in the industry involving distance coordination and troubleshooting. The necessary infrastructure and the setup used are first detailed, followed by a…

Program Validation: Four Case Studies. A Brief Report on Four Projects and Their Experiences Before the Joint Dissemination Review Panel.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, Nancy, Ed.

In an effort to clearly illustrate the most effective approach when seeking Joint Dissemination Review Panel (JDRP) validation, this report describes four different educational programs. A program involving prekindergarten special students, and a project entailing a systems approach for disadvantaged elementary school students, were awarded…

Using a Polytope to Estimate Efficient Production Functions of Joint Product Processes.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simpson, William A.

In the last decade, a modeling technique has been developed to handle complex input/output analyses where outputs involve joint products and there are no known mathematical relationships linking the outputs or inputs. The technique uses the geometrical concept of a six-dimensional shape called a polytope to analyze the efficiency of each…

[Benign tumors and pseudotumors of temporo-mandibular joint: radiologic aspects].

PubMed

Izzo, L; Caputo, M; Buffone, A; Casullo, A; Perrone, A; Sassi, S; Impara, L; Luppi, G; Mazza, D; Marini, Marina

2005-01-01

Benign tumors and tumor-like lesions that involve temporo mandibular joint are very rare. Those more frequent are osteochondroma, chondroma, osteoma, pigmented villonodular synovitis and synovial chondromatosis. The Authors report six cases of patients affected by these pathologies in which imaging, such as TC, MRI and/or ortopantomography have been useful to have a diagnosis.

Individual Differences in Children's Corepresentation of Self and Other in Joint Action

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milward, Sophie J.; Kita, Sotaro; Apperly, Ian A.

2017-01-01

Previous research has shown that children aged 4-5 years, but not 2-3 years, show adult-like interference from a partner when performing a joint task (Milward, Kita, & Apperly, 2014). This raises questions about the cognitive skills involved in the development of such "corepresentation (CR)" of a partner (Sebanz, Knoblich, &…