bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPRESSIBLE 1D EULER EQUATIONS WITH LARGE DATA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: ENDRES ERIK E. , JENSSEN HELGE KRISTIAN
Published: July 2009

Consider 1D flow of a compressible, ideal, and polytropic gas on a bounded interval in Lagrangian variables. We study the Cauchy problem when the initial data consist of four constant states that yield two contact waves bounding an interval of lower density, together with an admissible shock between them. To render the solution tractable for direct calculations, we also impose absorbing boundary conditions, at fixed locations (in Lagrangian coordinates) to the left and to the right of the two contacts. By estimating the wave strengths in shock–contact interactions, we show that the resulting flow is defined for all times. In particular, the pressure, density, particle velocities, and shock speeds are all uniformly bounded in time. We also record a scaling invariance of the system and comment on its relevance to large data solutions of the Euler system.
A PRIORI ESTIMATES FOR THE MOTION OF A SELF-GRAVITATING INCOMPRESSIBLE LIQUID WITH FREE SURFACE BOUNDARY
Authors: LINDBLAD HANS , NORDGREN KARL HÅKAN
Published: July 2009

In this paper, we prove a priori estimates in Lagrangian coordinates for the equations of motion of an incompressible, inviscid, self-gravitating fluid with free-boundary. The estimates show that on a finite time interval we control five derivatives of the fluid-velocity and five and a half derivatives of the coordinates of the moving domain.
Microengineered Platforms for Cell Mechanobiology
Authors: Kim Deok-Ho , Wong Pak Kin , Park Jungyul , Levchenko Andre , Sun Yu
Published: July 2009

Mechanical forces play important roles in the regulation of various biological processes at the molecular and cellular level, such as gene expression, adhesion, migration, and cell fate, which are essential to the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. In this review, we discuss emerging bioengineered tools enabled by microscale technologies for studying the roles of mechanical forces in cell biology. In addition to traditional mechanobiology experimental techniques, we review recent advances of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based approaches for cell mechanobiology and discuss how microengineered platforms can be used to generate in vivo–like micromechanical environment in in vitro settings for investigating cellular processes in normal and pathophysiological contexts. These capabilities also have significant implications for mechanical control of cell and tissue development and cell-based regenerative therapies.
Chronic intermittent hypoxia increases left ventricular contractility in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Naghshin Jahan , McGaffin Kenneth R. , Witham William G. , Mathier Michael A. , Romano Lia C. , Smith Steven H. , Janczewski Andrejz M. , Kirk Jonathan A. , Shroff Sanjeev G. , O'Donnell Christopher P.
Published: July 2009

Intermittent hypoxia (IH) commonly occurs in patients with obstructive sleep apnea and can cause a wide range of pathology, including reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction in rats as determined by echocardiography, in rodent models. We utilized echocardiography and pressure-volume (PV) loop analyses to determine whether LV contractility was decreased in inbred C57BL/6J mice exposed to IH and whether blockade of β-adrenergic receptors modified the response to hypoxia. Adult male 9- to 10-wk-old mice were exposed to 4 wk of IH (nadir inspired O2 5–6% at 60 cycles/h for 12 h during the light period) or intermittent air (IA) as control. A second group of animals were exposed to the same regimen of IH or IA, but in the presence of nonspecific β-blockade with propranolol. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and PV loop analyses, and mRNA and protein expression in ventricular homogenates was determined. Contrary to our expectations, we found with PV loop analyses that LV ejection fraction (63.4 ± 3.5 vs. 50.5 ± 2.6%, P = 0.015) and other measures of LV contractility were increased in IH-exposed animals compared with IA controls. There were no changes in contractile proteins, atrial natriuretic peptide levels, LV posterior wall thickness, or heart weight with IH exposure. However, cAMP levels were elevated after IH, and propranolol administration attenuated the increase in LV contractility induced by IH exposure. We conclude that, contrary to our hypothesis, 4 wk of IH exposure in C57BL/6J mice causes an increase in LV contractility that occurs independent of ventricular hypertrophy and is, in part, mediated by activation of cardiac β-adrenergic pathways.
Evaluation of the Effects of Deep Brain Stimulation of the Subthalamic Nucleus and Levodopa Treatment on Parkinsonian Voice Using Perturbation, Nonlinear Dynamic, and Perceptual Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xiao Ping , Lee Victoria S. , Wang Emily Q. , Jiang Jack J.
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: To quantify aperiodic phonation, nonlinear dynamic methods of acoustic voice analysis, such as correlation dimension, have been shown to be useful. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the validity of nonlinear dynamic analysis as a voice analysis tool for the effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) and levodopa on patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: In this study, the effects of DBS and levodopa treatment on patients with PD were measured using perturbation, nonlinear dynamic, and perceptual analysis. Nineteen PD patients that received bilateral (n = 9), left (n = 7), or right (n = 3) DBS performed sustained vowel phonations, which were recorded before and after medication with the stimulator off and on. Recordings were also taken of 10 PD patients who did not receive DBS surgery before and after medication to provide a baseline. Results: A mixed two-way ANOVA (surgery, medication) generated significant positive treatment effects of DBS only in mean log-transformed D2, which was supported by mean log-transformed shimmer, vF₀ (variability in fundamental frequency), and vAm (peak-to-peak amplitude variation). Conclusion: These findings may indicate the validity of nonlinear dynamic analysis as a complement to perceptual analysis in clinical PD voice studies.
Perturbation Measures of Voice: A Comparative Study between Multi-Dimensional Voice Program and Praat
Authors: Maryn Youri , Corthals Paul , De Bodt Marc , Van Cauwenberge Paul , Deliyski Dimitar
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: Frequency and amplitude perturbations are inherent in voice acoustic signals. The assessment of voice perturbation is influenced by several factors, including the type of recording equipment used and the measurement extraction algorithm applied. In the present study, perturbation measures provided by two computer systems (a purpose-built professional voice analysis apparatus and a personal computer-based system for acoustic voice assessment) and two computer programs (Multi-Dimensional Voice Program and Praat) were compared. Methods: Correlations and inferential statistics for seven perturbation measures (absolute jitter, percent jitter, relative average perturbation, pitch perturbation quotient, shimmer in decibels, percent shimmer, and amplitude perturbation quotient) in 50 subjects with various voice disorders are presented. Results: Results indicate statistically significant differences between the two systems and programs, with the Multi-Dimensional Voice Program yielding consistently higher measures than Praat. Furthermore, correlation analyses show weak to moderate proportional relationships between the two systems and weak to strong proportional relationships between the two programs. Conclusion: Based on the literature and the proportional relationships and differences between the two systems and programs under consideration in this study, one can state that one can hardly compare frequency perturbation outcomes across systems and programs and amplitude perturbation outcomes across systems.
Expression of the Chemokine Fractalkine (FKN/CX3CL1) by Podocytes in Normal and Proteinuric Rat Kidney Glomerulus
Authors: Katsuyama Koichi , Fujinaka Hidehiko , Yamamoto Keiko , Nameta Masaaki , Yaoita Eishin , Yoshida Yutaka , Tomizawa Shuichi , Uchiyama Makoto , Yamamoto Tadashi
Published: July 2009

Background/Aims: A chemokine fractalkine (FKN/CX3CL1) is induced primarily by endothelial cells and accumulates inflammatory cells via its receptor CX3CR1. Since glomerular preferential expression of FKN/CX3CL1 gene was reported in normal human kidney, we presumed FKN/CX3CL1 might play some roles in glomerular physiology. The purpose of this study is to examine the expression and localization of FKN/CX3CL1 in normal and proteinuric glomeruli. Methods: Normal and proteinuric rat kidneys were studied. The gene and protein expressions of FKN/CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 were examined by real-time RT-PCR, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, Western blotting. Results: By real-time RT-PCR, glomerular preferential expression of FKN/CX3CL1 was confirmed, whereas CX3CR1 was detected in glomeruli and cortices. The localization of FKN/CX3CL1 gene and protein were demonstrated in glomerular cells including podocytes. In nephrotic puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) nephrosis glomeruli, increased expression of FKN/CX3CL1 in podocyte was shown by immunohistochemistry. Western blotting showed that in nephrotic glomeruli, the membrane-anchored form of FKN/CX3CL1 was increased while the soluble form was decreased. Conclusion: The expression of FKN/CX3CL1 in normal podocytes and the increased expression of the membrane-anchored form in nephrotic glomeruli strongly suggest that FKN/CX3CL1 may play roles in glomerular physiology such as maintaining glomerular filtration barrier.
Not without my Permission: Parents’ Willingness to Permit Use of Newborn Screening Samples for Research
Authors: Tarini B.A. , Goldenberg A. , Singer D. , Clark S.J. , Butchart A. , Davis M.M.
Published: July 2009

Background: State newborn screening (NBS) programs are considering the storage and use of NBS blood samples for research. However, no systematic assessment of parents’ attitudes exists. Methods: We conducted an Internet-based survey of a nationally representative parent sample. We examined parents’ willingness (1) to permit use of their children’s NBS samples for research with/without their permission and (2) to allow NBS sample storage. Using bivariate and multinomial logistic regression, we examined the association of parent and child characteristics with parents’ willingness to permit NBS sample storage and use for research, respectively. Results: The response rate was 49.5%. If permission is obtained, 76.2% of parents were ‘very or somewhat willing’ to permit use of the NBS sample for research. If permission is not obtained, only 28.2% of parents were ‘very or somewhat willing’. Of parents surveyed, 78% would permit storage of their children’s NBS sample. Parents who refused NBS sample storage were also less willing to permit use of the NBS sample for research. Conclusions: Three-quarters of parents would permit use of their children’s NBS samples for research – if their permission is obtained. Parents not in favor of storing NBS samples often opposed the use of NBS samples for research.
Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay and Ubiquitin–Proteasome System Regulate Cardiac Myosin-Binding Protein C Mutant Levels in Cardiomyopathic Mice
Authors: Vignier Nicolas , Schlossarek Saskia , Fraysse Bodvael , Mearini Giulia , Krämer Elisabeth , Pointu Hervé , Mougenot Nathalie , Guiard Josiane , Reimer Rudolph , Hohenberg Heinrich , Schwartz Ketty , Vernet Muriel , Eschenhagen Thomas , Carrier Lucie
Published: July 2009

Rationale:

Mutations in the
MYBPC3
gene encoding cardiac myosin-binding protein (cMyBP)-C are frequent causes of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, but the mechanisms leading from mutations to disease remain elusive.

Objective:

The goal of the present study was therefore to gain insights into the mechanisms controlling the expression of
MYBPC3
mutations.

Methods and Results:

We developed a cMyBP-C knock-in mouse carrying a point mutation. The level of total cMyBP-C mRNAs was 50% and 80% lower in heterozygotes and homozygotes, respectively. Surprisingly, the single G>A transition on the last nucleotide of exon 6 resulted in 3 different mutant mRNAs: missense (exchange of G for A), nonsense (exon skipping, frameshift, and premature stop codon) and deletion/insertion (as nonsense but with additional partial retention of downstream intron, restoring of the reading frame, and almost full-length protein). Inhibition of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay in cultured cardiac myocytes or in vivo with emetine or cycloheximide increased the level of nonsense mRNAs severalfold but not of the other mRNAs. By using sequential protein fractionation and a new antibody directed against novel amino acids produced by the frameshift, we showed that inhibition of the proteasome with epoxomicin via osmotic minipumps increased the level of (near) full-length mutants but not of truncated proteins. Homozygotes exhibited myocyte and left ventricular hypertrophy, reduced fractional shortening, and interstitial fibrosis; heterozygotes had no major phenotype.

Conclusions:

These data reveal (1) an unanticipated complexity of the expression of a single point mutation in the whole animal and (2) the involvement of both nonsense-mediated mRNA decay and the ubiquitin–proteasome system in lowering the level of mutant proteins.
Presupposition and Anaphora: Remarks on the Formulation of the Projection Problem
Authors: Kripke Saul A.
Published: July 2009

Writers on presupposition, and on the “projection problem” of determining the presuppositions of compound sentences from their component clauses, traditionally assign presuppositions to each clause in isolation. I argue that many presuppositional elements are anaphoric to previous discourse or contextual elements. In compound sentences, these can be other clauses of the sentence. We thus need a theory of presuppositional anaphora, analogous to the corresponding pronominal theory.
Classifiers ≠ Determiners
Authors: Wu Yicheng , Bodomo Adams
Published: July 2009

Cheng and Sybesma (1999, 2005) argue that classifiers in Chinese are equivalent to a definite article. We argue against this position on empirical grounds, drawing attention to the fact that semantically, syntactically, and functionally, Chinese classifiers are not on the same footing as definite determiners. We also show that compared with Cheng and Sybesma's ClP analysis of Chinese NPs (in particular, Cantonese NPs, on which their proposal crucially relies), a consistent DP analysis is not only fully justified but strongly supported.
Preparation and Selective Laser Sintering of Nylon-12-Coated Aluminum Powders
Authors: Chun-Ze Yan  , Yu-Sheng Shi  , Jing-Song Yang  , Lin Xu
Published: July 2009

The dissolution—precipitation process was developed to prepare nylon-12-coated aluminum powders, and functional parts were directly made using selective laser sintering (SLS) process from the composite powders. The microcosmic appearances of the composite powders and fractured surfaces of the SLS parts were observed by scanning electron microscope. The effect of the aluminum powder on the thermal properties of nylon-12 resin was studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The influences of the contents and particle sizes of the aluminum powders on the mechanical properties and dimensional accuracy of the SLS parts were investigated. The results show that: the aluminum particles are well coated with nylon-12 in the composite powders; the aluminum particles have good interfacial adhesion with nylon-12 and are homogeneously dispersed in the SLS parts; the aluminum particles can increase the melting and crystalline temperatures and crystalline rate of nylon-12; dimensional accuracy of the SLS parts can be improved by increasing the mass fraction of the aluminum powder; the tensile strength, flexural strength, and flexural modulus increase by about 10.4%, 62.1%, and 122.3% respectively when the mass fraction of the aluminum powder increases from 0 to 50%, while elongation at break and impact strength decrease by about 65.0 and 74.4% respectively; the tensile strength, elongation at break and impact strength all increase with decreasing particle sizes of the aluminum powders.
Experimental Study of Dynamic Crack Growth in Unidirectional Graphite/Epoxy Composites using Digital Image Correlation Method and High-speed Photography
Authors: Lee Dongyeon , Tippur Hareesh , Kirugulige Madhu , Bogert Phillip
Published: July 2009

In this work, fracture behavior of multilayered unidirectional graphite/epoxy composite (T800/3900-2) materials is investigated. Rectangular coupons with a single-edged notch are studied under geometrically symmetric loading configurations and impact loading conditions. The notch orientation parallel to or at an angle to the fiber orientation is considered to produce mode-I or mixed-mode (mode-I and -II) fracture. Feasibility of studying stress-wave induced crack initiation and rapid crack growth in fiber-reinforced composites using the digital image correlation method and high-speed photography is demonstrated. Analysis of photographed random speckles on specimen surface provides information pertaining to crack growth history as well as surface deformations in the crack-tip vicinity. Measured deformation fields are used to estimate mixed-mode fracture parameters and examine the effect of fiber orientation (β) on crack initiation and growth behaviors. The samples show differences in fracture responses depending upon the orientation of fibers. The maximum crack speed observed is the highest for mode-I dominant conditions and it decreases with fiber orientation angle. With increasing fiber orientation angle, crack takes longer to attain the maximum speed upon initiation. Continuous reduction of dynamic stress intensity factors after crack initiation under mode-I conditions is attributed to crack bridging. The crack initiation toughness values decrease with the degree-of-anisotropy or increase with fiber orientation angle. A rather good agreement between crack initiation toughness values and the ones from previous investigations is observed. There is also a good experimental correlation between dynamic stress intensity factor and crack-tip velocity histories for shallow fiber orientations of β = 0, 15, and 30°.
Rollo May on Existential Psychotherapy
Authors: Schneider Kirk J. , Galvin John , Serlin Ilene
Published: July 2009

This article is a lightly edited transcription of an interview conducted by Kirk Schneider, John Galvin, and Ilene Serlin with Rollo May at his retreat home in Holderness, New Hampshire, in the summer of 1987. Drawing from the influence of his forefathers, Freud, Jung, Fromm, Adler, Sullivan, and Rank as well as classical mythology, philosophy, and literature, May gives a passionate explanation of existential psychotherapy and why it is so urgent in today’s “quick fix,” “gimmick-oriented” society.
Care research and disability studies: Nothing in common?
Authors: Kröger Teppo
Published: July 2009

Disability researchers have voiced the criticism that the concept of care, together with research based on it, consists of the view that disabled people are dependent non-autonomous second-class citizens. The perspectives of disability studies and care research certainly are different from each other. Disability studies analyse the oppression and exclusion of disabled people and emphasize that disabled people need human rights and control over their own lives. Care research focuses rather on care relationships, informal and formal care, care-giving work and `an ethics of care'. Nevertheless, it is suggested here that the two perspectives are not mutually exclusive and that the two groups could learn from each other's approaches. For example, the relationship between disabled people and their personal assistants has much the same characteristics as the care relationship and requires a balancing of the needs and interests of the two parties. On the other hand, access to adequate care could be perceived as a basic civil and human right.
Post-Foucauldian governmentality: What does it offer critical social policy analysis?
Authors: Mckee Kim
Published: July 2009

This article considers the theoretical perspective of post-Foucauldian governmentality, especially the insights and challenges it poses for applied researchers within the critical social policy tradition. The article firstly examines the analytical strengths of this approach to understanding power and rule in contemporary society, before moving on to consider its limitations for social policy. It concludes by arguing that these insights can be retained, and some of the weaknesses overcome, by adopting Stenson's realist governmentality approach. This advocates combining traditional discursive analysis with more ethnographic methods in order to render visible the concrete activity of governing, and unravel the messiness, complexity and unintended consequences involved in the struggles around subjectivity.
Changing Lives: Critical reflections on the social work change programme for Scotland
Authors: Ritchie Anne , Woodward Rona
Published: July 2009

In 2004 the Scottish Executive commissioned an independent review of social work. Changing Lives, the Review Report, was published in February 2006 and described as the basis for `the biggest overhaul of social work in Scotland for 40 years'. This paper examines the background to the Changing Lives Report, discusses its main findings and considers what has happened to social work in Scotland in the two years since its publication. It is argued that the Report reflects the problems that beset social work and offers ways forward that merit consideration. It is also argued that both the Report, and the ensuing change programme, fail to critically appraise the political and social forces that have undermined the status of welfare professionals and marginalized service users in recent times. The authors suggest that, as a result, the Changing Lives agenda is, as yet, unlikely to find full resonance with either practitioners or service users.
The case of `Baby P': Opening up spaces for debate on the `transformation' of Children's Services?
Authors: Garrett Paul Michael
Published: July 2009

`Baby P', a 17 month old boy, died in August 2007 from severe injuries inflicted whilst he was in the care of his mother, her `boyfriend' and a lodger in the household. In November 2008 two men were found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child or vulnerable person. The mother had already pleaded guilty to the same charge. Importantly, for Children's Services, `Baby P' had been subject to a child protection plan following concerns that he had been abused and neglected. Following the convictions, the death of `Baby P', and the inadequate responses of child welfare professionals, began to dominate political and media discourses. This critical commentary initially focuses on media, particularly newspaper, reports on the case and identifies a number of key themes. It is then maintained, despite the largely pernicious newspaper accounts of the tragedy, there may now be room, following the publication of the joint area review (JAR) of Haringey Children's Services, to prompt more informed debates about `reform' within the sector.
The potential of including the UK in comparisons with other European countries in research on teenage pregnancy
Authors: Franz Anke , Worrell Marcia , Gilvarry Catherine , Vögele Claus
Published: July 2009

This article is a response to Arai (2003) `British policy on teenage pregnancy and childbearing: The limitations of comparisons with other European countries' ( Critical Social Policy 23: 89—102). It discusses the arguments put forward by Arai there that cross-cultural comparisons in the area of teenage pregnancy are often problematic due to the unique demographics of the UK. While Arai's considerations are important for cross-cultural research, they need to be more sensitive to the differences between countries included in these comparisons. Our article illustrates the potential value of cross-cultural research, using Germany as an example, and concludes that, as long as countries for such comparisons are chosen carefully, the merit of cross-cultural research on topics such as teenage pregnancy far exceeds its limitations.
Sovereign-less Subject and the Possibility of Resistance
Authors: Zevnik Andreja
Published: July 2009

This article explores exclusionary practices of contemporary politics and alternative forms of resistance. It starts off explaining how Giorgio Agamben's theory can be understood in the context of resistance. In so doing, it turns to the arguments put forward by Edkins and Pin-Fat. In their article `Through the Wire', they identify two forms of resistance. Drawing on Agamben's thought: refusal and the assumption of bare life. This article argues that these two forms are not sufficient for thinking resistance. This is so because of a gap in Agamben's thought and the way Edkins and Pin-Fat read him. In order to explore resistance in a more fruitful way, the article critiques Edkins and Pin-Fat's conclusions on the understanding bare life as a form of resistance; it amends Agamben's account by explaining the move from bare life to whatever being, and ultimately, the article finds whatever being as a fruitful way of understanding resistance on the example of Tiananmen. At the end I conclude that the Tiananmen protest successfully challenged the sovereign power from the position of in-between.
'A Fresh Crop of Human Misery': Representations of Bosnian 'War Babies' in the Global Print Media, 1991—2006
Authors: Carpenter R. Charli
Published: July 2009

During the war in the former Yugoslavia, women of all ethnic backgrounds were raped and many gave birth to children as a result of this violence. Although numerous journalists wrote about the pregnancies and the babies during the war, almost no attention has been paid to these children as such by human rights organisations during or since. Given the purported agenda-setting role of the global media in drawing attention to new human rights problems, this case represents an interesting puzzle and a site for exploring the interrelationship between gendered, nationalist and rights-based frames in the global media's representations of atrocity. This article explores how these representations both figured in gendered constructions of genocide and negatively affected the prospects of human rights attention to the children in their own right.
'Sorry for the Genocide': How Public Apologies Can Help Promote National Reconciliation
Authors: Andrieu Kora
Published: July 2009

The aim of this article is to defend the politics of official apologies as part of a liberal conception of state and society. To acknowledge this is to defend a subjective conception of state legitimacy, not solely based on its objective efficiency but also on the meaning that citizens give to it and their belief in its legitimacy. I will argue that official apologies for past wrongs can be an essential component of this belief, and help building or rebuilding civic trust in the aftermath of mass atrocity. The acknowledgment of a wrongdoing, the acceptance of one's responsibility, and the expression of sorrow and regret for it can therefore appear as a reliable way to promote national reconciliation. I will show that in order to understand how pure words can provoke such an important shift, we need to `unfold' the meaning of an apology and to review our conception of reconciliation itself. Only if we consider reconciliation as the achievement of trust can apologies become part of the reconstruction process of post-conflict societies. I will draw upon a Habermassian conception of discursive solidarity to show that, rightly understood and formulated, apologies, as a form of dialogue, could become an essential norm-affirming and community-binding measure in the aftermath of mass atrocities, one compatible with a liberal project of transitional justice.
How Isometric Are the Medial Patellofemoral, Superficial Medial Collateral, and Lateral Collateral Ligaments of the Knee?
Authors: Victor Jan , Wong Pius , Witvrouw Eric , Sloten Jos Vander , Bellemans Johan
Published: July 2009

Background

Ligament isometry is a cornerstone in the description of normal knee function and thorough knowledge is mandatory for successful repair of torn ligaments.

Purpose

This study was undertaken to validate a novel experimental model for the study of ligament strains and to determine the length changes in the superficial medial collateral, lateral collateral, and medial patellofemoral ligaments.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

Passive motions and loaded squats of 12 cadaveric specimens were performed while controlling ankle load and optically tracking the motion of the bones. Preexperiment and postexperiment computed axial tomography scans allow the transformation of rigid body motion to relative motion of relevant anatomic landmarks on the femur, tibia, and patella.

Results

The superficial medial collateral ligament is a near-isometric ligament with a strain of less than 2%. The ligament is a little more slack in midflexion (30° to 50°) and in deep flexion, but length changes are not significant ( P > .05). The lateral collateral ligament behaves near isometric (<2% strain) from 0° to 70° of knee flexion. Cartilage compression in a loaded environment relieves tension from the collateral ligaments ( P < .05). The medial patellofemoral ligament is nonisometric. The cranial part of the medial patellofemoral ligament is most taut at full extension, while the caudal part is most taut at 30° of knee flexion.

Conclusion

Ligament insertion sites on the femur, patella, and fibula can be derived from computed axial tomography scans. The described model allows the study of dynamic ligament behavior. The superficial medial collateral ligament is a near-isometric ligament with no significant length changes. The medial patellofemoral ligament behaves differently in its cranial and caudal parts.

Clinical Relevance

In knees with chronic medial collateral ligament insufficiency, isometric repair of the superficial medial collateral ligament can be attempted. A medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with a double fixation on the medial patellar border is supported. The cranial bundle should be tightened at full extension and the caudal bundle at 30° of knee flexion.
Concordance of the Children’s Executive Functions Scale With Established Tests and Parent Rating Scales
Authors: Goulden Laura G. , Silver Cheryl H.
Published: July 2009

An increase can be seen in the number of tests designed to assess executive dysfunction in children, but few address ecological validity by attempting to measure functioning in the natural environment. This study examined the utility of the Children’s Executive Functions Scale (CEFS), a 99-item parent-report measure. The CEFS was designed to measure a variety of behaviors related to executive functioning, including social appropriateness, inhibition, problem solving, initiative, and motor planning. A sample of 59 children was evaluated with the CEFS, established tests of executive functioning, Child Behavior Checklist, and Conners’ Rating Scale. Correlations between the CEFS and the test variables were modest and produced a pattern slightly different from correlations obtained for the other parent report measures. The CEFS was significantly correlated with the other parent report measures; however, the magnitude of the coefficients suggests that the CEFS is providing unique information.
MRSA as a Cause of Postpartum Breast Abscess in Infant and Mother
Authors: Montalto Michael , Lui Benjamin
Published: July 2009

This report describes the unusual occurrence of mastitis and breast abscess in both mother and infant, both caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Mother and child were both immunocompetent, and their only risk factor was routine confinement. The case highlights the importance of considering MRSA as a cause for mastitis in mothers and infants. MRSA is increasingly common, and failure to consider it as a cause for mastitis will lead to delays in treatment (as it did in this case). The case also demonstrates the role of Hospital in the Home in the treatment of postnatal infections, where hospitalization can be extremely disruptive.
Dwelling With the Fourfold
Authors: Harman Graham
Published: July 2009

This article explains Martin Heidegger's notorious fourfold (Geviert) as the intersection of two distinct dualisms in Heidegger's philosophy. The role of the fourfold in Heidegger's concept of “the thing” is discussed in especial detail.
Rationales, design and recruitment of the Taizhou Longitudinal Study
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Lu Ming , Qian Ji , Yang Yajun , Li Shilin , Lu Daru , Yu Shunzhang , Meng Wei , Ye Weimin , Jin Li
Published: July 2009

Background

Rapid economic growth in China in the past decades has been accompanied by dramatic changes in lifestyle and environmental exposures. The burdens of non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer, have also increased substantially.

Methods/design

We initiated a large prospective cohort–the Taizhou Longitudinal Study–in Taizhou (a medium-size city in China) to explore the environmental and genetic risk factors for common non-communicable diseases. The sample size of the cohort will be at least 100,000 adults aged 30–80 years drawn from the general residents of the districts of Hailin, Gaogang, and Taixing (sample frame, 1.8 million) of Taizhou. A three-stage stratified sampling method will be applied. Baseline investigations include interviewer-administered questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and collection of buccal mucosal cells and blood specimens. DNA will be extracted for genetic studies and serum samples will be used for biochemical examinations. A follow-up survey will be conducted every three years to obtain information on disease occurrence and information on selected lifestyle exposures. Study participants will be followed-up indefinitely by using a chronic disease register system for morbidity and cause-specific mortality. Information on non-fatal events will be obtained for certain major categories of disease (e.g., cancer, stroke, myocardial infarction) through established registry systems.

Discussion

The Taizhou Longitudinal Study will provide a good basis for exploring the roles of many important environmental factors (especially those concomitant with the economic transformation in China) for common chronic diseases, solely or via interaction with genetic factors.
Resistin Regulates Pituitary Somatotrope Cell Function through the Activation of Multiple Signaling Pathways
Authors: Rodríguez-Pacheco Francisca , Vázquez-Martínez Rafael , Martínez-Fuentes Antonio J. , Pulido Marina R. , Gahete Manuel D. , Vaudry Hubert , Gracia-Navarro Francisco , Diéguez Carlos , Castaño Justo P. , Malagón Maria M.
Published: July 2009

The adipokine resistin is an insulin-antagonizing factor that also plays a regulatory role in inflammation, immunity, food intake, and gonadal function. Although adipose tissue is the primary source of resistin, it is also expressed in other tissues and organs, including the pituitary. However, there is no information on whether resistin, as described previously for other adipokines such as leptin and adiponectin, could regulate this gland. Likewise, the molecular basis of resistin actions remains largely unexplored. Here we show that administration of resistin to dispersed rat anterior pituitary cells increased GH release in both the short (4 h) and long (24 h) term, decreased mRNA levels of the receptor of the somatotrope regulator ghrelin, and increased free cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in single somatotropes. By means of a pharmacological approach, we found that the stimulatory action of resistin occurs through a Gs protein-dependent mechanism and that the adenylate cyclase/cAMP/protein kinase A pathway, the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway, protein kinase C, and extracellular Ca2+ entry through L-type voltage-sensitive Ca2+ channels are essential players in mediating the effects of resistin on somatotropes. Taken together, our results demonstrate for the first time a regulatory role for resistin on somatotrope function and provide novel insights on the intracellular mechanisms activated by this protein.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Regulates Lipolysis in White Adipose Tissue But Is Not Required for Ketogenesis and Triglyceride Clearance in Liver
Authors: Hotta Yuhei , Nakamura Hirotoshi , Konishi Morichika , Murata Yusuke , Takagi Hiroyuki , Matsumura Shigenobu , Inoue Kazuo , Fushiki Tohru , Itoh Nobuyuki
Published: July 2009

Fibroblast growth factors (Fgfs) are polypeptide growth factors with diverse functions. Fgf21, a unique member of the Fgf family, is expected to function as a metabolic regulator in an endocrine manner. Hepatic Fgf21 expression was increased by fasting. The phenotypes of hepatic Fgf21 transgenic or knockdown mice and high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet-fed mice suggests that Fgf21 stimulates lipolysis in the white adipose tissue during normal feeding and is required for ketogenesis and triglyceride clearance in the liver during fasting. However, the physiological roles of Fgf21 remain unclear. To elucidate the physiological roles of Fgf21, we generated Fgf21 knockout (KO) mice by targeted disruption. Fgf21 KO mice were viable, fertile, and seemingly normal. Food intake, oxygen consumption, and energy expenditure were also essentially unchanged in Fgf21 KO mice. However, hypertrophy of adipocytes, decreased lipolysis in adipocytes, and decreased blood nonesterified fatty acid levels were observed when Fgf21 KO mice were fed normally. In contrast, increased lipolysis in adipocytes and increased blood nonesterified fatty acid levels were observed in Fgf21 KO mice by fasting for 24 h, indicating that Fgf21 stimulates lipolysis in the white adipose tissue during feeding but inhibits it during fasting. In contrast, unexpectedly, hepatic triglyceride levels were essentially unchanged in Fgf21 KO mice. In addition, ketogenesis in Fgf21 KO mice was not impaired by fasting for 24 h. The present results indicate that Fgf21 regulates lipolysis in adipocytes in response to the metabolic state but is not required for ketogenesis and triglyceride clearance in the liver.
Fetal and Neonatal Exposure to the Endocrine Disruptor Methoxychlor Causes Epigenetic Alterations in Adult Ovarian Genes
Authors: Zama Aparna Mahakali , Uzumcu Mehmet
Published: July 2009

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during development could alter the epigenetic programming of the genome and result in adult-onset disease. Methoxychlor (MXC) and its metabolites possess estrogenic, antiestrogenic, and antiandrogenic activities. Previous studies showed that fetal/neonatal exposure to MXC caused adult ovarian dysfunction due to altered expression of key ovarian genes including estrogen receptor (ER)-β, which was down-regulated, whereas ERα was unaffected. The objective of the current study was to evaluate changes in global and gene-specific methylation patterns in adult ovaries associated with the observed defects. Rats were exposed to MXC (20 μg/kg·d or 100 mg/kg·d) between embryonic d 19 and postnatal d 7. We performed DNA methylation analysis of the known promoters of ERα and ERβ genes in postnatal d 50–60 ovaries using bisulfite sequencing and methylation-specific PCRs. Developmental exposure to MXC led to significant hypermethylation in the ERβ promoter regions (P < 0.05), whereas the ERα promoter was unaffected. We assessed global DNA methylation changes using methylation-sensitive arbitrarily primed PCR and identified 10 genes that were hypermethylated in ovaries from exposed rats. To determine whether the MXC-induced methylation changes were associated with increased DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) levels, we measured the expression levels of Dnmt3a, Dnmt3b, and Dnmt3l using semiquantitative RT-PCR. Whereas Dnmt3a and Dnmt3l were unchanged, Dnmt3b expression was stimulated in ovaries of the 100 mg/kg MXC group (P < 0.05), suggesting that increased DNMT3B may cause DNA hypermethylation in the ovary. Overall, these data suggest that transient exposure to MXC during fetal and neonatal development affects adult ovarian function via altered methylation patterns.
Impact of Melatonin and Molecular Clockwork Components on the Expression of Thyrotropin β-Chain (Tshb) and the Tsh Receptor in the Mouse Pars Tuberalis
Authors: Unfried Claudia , Ansari Nariman , Yasuo Shinobu , Korf Horst-Werner , von Gall Charlotte
Published: July 2009

Photoperiodic regulation of reproduction in birds and mammals involves thyrotropin β-chain (TSHb), which is secreted from the pars tuberalis (PT) and controls the expression of deiodinase type 2 and 3 in the ependymal cell layer of the infundibular recess (EC) via TSH receptors (TSHRs). To analyze the impact of melatonin and the molecular clockwork on the expression of Tshb and Tshr, we investigated melatonin-proficient C3H wild-type (WT), melatonin receptor 1-deficient (MT1-/-) or clockprotein PERIOD1-deficient (mPER1-/-) mice. Expression of Tshb and TSHb immunoreactivity in PT were low during day and high during the night in WT, high during the day and low during the night in mPER1-deficient, and equally high during the day and night in MT1-deficient mice. Melatonin injections into WT acutely suppressed Tshb expression. Transcription assays showed that the 5′ upstream region of the Tshb gene could be controlled by clockproteins. Tshr levels in PT were low during the day and high during the night in WT and mPER1-deficient mice and equally low in MT1-deficient mice. Tshr expression in the EC did not show a day/night variation. Melatonin injections into WT acutely induced Tshr expression in PT but not in EC. TSH stimulation of hypothalamic slice cultures of WT induced phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein in PT and EC and deiodinase type 2 in the EC. Our data suggest that Tshb expression in PT is controlled by melatonin and the molecular clockwork and that melatonin activates Tshr expression in PT but not in EC. They also confirm the functional importance of TSHR in the PT and EC.
Shape meets polarity in Japan
Authors: Goldstein Bob , Hamada Hiroshi
Published: July 2009

A diverse group of developmental biologists who study cell polarity gathered in late March 2009 at the RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology in Kobe, Japan, for a symposium entitled `Shape and Polarity'. The organizers,Masatoshi Takeichi, Fumio Matsuzaki, Hitoshi Sawa [RIKEN Center for Developmental Biology (CDB), Kobe, Japan] and Carl-Philipp Heisenberg (Max Planck Institute, Dresden, Germany), put together an engaging program that highlighted recent progress towards understanding the mechanisms of cell polarization during development, and the functions of cell polarity in shaping development.
Manufacturing and assembly automation by integrated metrology systems for aircraft wing fabrication
Authors: Jamshidi J , Kayani A , Iravani P , Maropoulos P G , Summers M D
Published: July 2009

Discrepancies of materials, tools, and factory environments, as well as human intervention, make variation an integral part of the manufacturing process of any component. In particular, the assembly of large volume, aerospace parts is an area where significant levels of form and dimensional variation are encountered. Corrective actions can usually be taken to reduce the defects, when the sources and levels of variation are known. For the unknown dimensional and form variations, a tolerancing strategy is typically put in place in order to minimize the effects of production inconsistencies related to geometric dimensions. This generates a challenging problem for the automation of the corresponding manufacturing and assembly processes. Metrology is becoming a major contributor to being able to predict, in real time, the automated assembly problems related to the dimensional variation of parts and assemblies. This is done by continuously measuring dimensions and coordinate points, focusing on the product's key characteristics. In this paper, a number of metrology focused activities for large-volume aerospace products, including their implementation and application in the automation of manufacturing and assembly processes, are reviewed. This is done by using a case study approach within the assembly of large-volume aircraft wing structures.
The influence of alumina powder on the rheological properties of zircon/silica slurries for investment casting of moulds
Authors: Ferenc J , Michalski J , Matysiak H , Sikorski K , Kurzydlowski K J
Published: July 2009

Investment casting is an effective method for fabricating dimensionally accurate metal components of complex shape. In the process of casting nickel superalloys, slurries based on Ludox® SK and zircon silicate (ZrSiO4) are widely used in casting shops. Ceramic moulds based on Ludox SK and ZrSiO4 alone have a major disadvantage, as they interact with the molten metal. This interaction significantly reduces the production yield. In the present study causes of the most common blade defects are explained, based on extensive examinations of slurry components by scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution electron microscope, and zeta potential analyser. Slurry rheology via changes of pH and addition of alumina or aluminium oxide (Al2O3) powders is presented. It is found that Al2O3 powder as a rheology modifier allows ceramic slurries based on Ludox SK and ZrSiO4 to be modified deliberately.
Modelling and optimization of process parameters of wire electrical discharge machining
Authors: Rao R V , Pawar P J
Published: July 2009

The optimum selection of process parameters is essential for advanced machining processes as these processes incur high initial investment, tooling cost, operating cost, and maintenance cost. Wire electrical discharge machining (WEDM) is a widely accepted advanced material removal process used to manufacture components with intricate shapes and profiles. The present work highlights the development of mathematical models using response surface modelling (RSM) for correlating the inter-relationships of various WEDM parameters such as pulse-on time, pulse-off time, peak current, and servo feed setting on the machining speed and surface roughness. A recently developed advanced optimization technique, known as artificial bee colony (ABC), is then applied to find the optimal combination of process parameters with an objective of achieving maximum machining speed for a desired value of surface finish.
Development of the displacement measuring system for a dual mass flywheel in a vehicle
Authors: Kang T-S , Kauh S K , Ha K-P
Published: July 2009

Dual mass flywheel (DMF) systems are used in many modern vehicles, owing to the well-known positive effects on vehicle drivability and fuel consumption. It is very important to measure the angular displacement of the DMF for the understanding of the characteristics of the DMF. This paper will discuss the development of the displacement measuring system for the DMF based on the principle of the linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), which can be installed in a real vehicle. It consists of a sensor node, power node, and BluetoothTM node, and transmits the displacement data by Bluetooth technology. A resistance temperature detector (RTD) was used to check the temperature of the DMF, and transmits the temperature data using Bluetooth technology. The developed displacement measuring system for the DMF shows good linearity and temperature compensation was conducted. It is installed in an in-line four-cylinder engine vehicle, and is successfully used to measure the displacement of DMF.