bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Reacted Acidic Monomer with Calcium on Bonding Performance
Authors: Fujita K. , Ma S. , Aida M. , Maeda T. , Ikemi T. , Hirata M. , Nishiyama N.
Published: February 2011

We determined the number of reacted and unreacted 10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate (10-MDP) molecules with calcium during the demineralization process of hydroxyapatite or dentin by 10-MDP-based one-step (Clearfil Tri-S Bond, TS) or two-step self-etch adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond Primer, SE). We then examined the effects of the number of reacted and/or unreacted 10-MDP molecules on the initial bond strength and bond durability of the resultant adhesive layer. The null hypotheses were that (1) the etching efficacy of tooth apatite by 10-MDP used in TS was the same as that in SE, and (2) the unreacted 10-MDP polymer included within the adhesive layer does not affect bond durability. Addition of hydroxyapatite or dentin to the TS and SE resulted in decreases in the NMR peak intensities for 10-MDP. The peak intensity for 10-MDP showed a greater reduction in SE than in TS, consistent with the observation that SE provided significantly higher initial mean bond strengths than TS. Further, the unreacted 10-MDP polymer within the adhesive layer did not decrease the mean bond strength, despite the application of 20,000x thermo-cycling.
DMP1 Processing is Essential to Dentin and Jaw Formation
Authors: Sun Y. , Lu Y. , Chen L. , Gao T. , D’Souza R. , Feng J.Q. , Qin C.
Published: February 2011

Dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), an acidic protein that is essential to the mineralization of bone and dentin, exists as proteolytically processed fragments in the mineralized tissues. In this study, we characterized the tooth and jaw phenotypes in transgenic mice containing no wild-type DMP1, but expressing a mutant DMP1 in which Asp213, a residue at one cleavage site, was replaced by Ala213 (named “ Dmp1-KO/ D213A-Tg” mice). The teeth and mandible of Dmp1-KO/ D213A-Tg mice were compared with those of wild-type, Dmp1-knockout ( Dmp1-KO), and Dmp1-KO mice expressing the normal Dmp1 transgene. The results showed that D213A-DMP1 was not cleaved in dentin, and the expression of D213A-DMP1 failed to rescue the defects in the dentin, cementum, and alveolar bones in the Dmp1-KO mice. These findings indicate that the proteolytic processing of DMP1 is essential to the formation and mineralization of dentin, cementum, and jaw bones.
Quantitative Immunogold Localization of Protein Phosphatase 2B (Calcineurin) in Paramecium Cells
Authors: Momayezi M. , Kissmehl R. , Plattner H.
Published: February 2011

For immunogold EM labeling analysis, we fixed Paramecium cells in 4% formaldehyde and 0.125% glutaraldehyde, followed by low-temperature embedding in unicryl and UV polymerization. We first quantified some obvious but thus far neglected side effects of section staining on immunogold labeling, using mono- or polyclonal antibodies (Abs) against defined secretory and cell surface components, followed by F(ab)2– or protein A–gold conjugates. Use of alkaline lead staining resulted in considerable rearrangement and loss of label unless sections were postfixed by glutaraldehyde after gold labeling. This artifact is specific for section staining with lead. It can be avoided by staining sections with aqueous uranyl acetate only to achieve high-resolution immunogold localization of a protein phosphatase on unicryl sections. In general, phosphatases are assumed to be closely, although loosely, associated with their targets. Because the occurrence of protein phosphatase 2B (calcineurin) in Paramecium has been previously established by biochemical and immunological work, as well as by molecular biology, we have used Abs against mammalian CaN or its subunits, CaN-A and CaN-B, for antigen mapping in these cells by quantitative immunogold labeling analysis. Using ABs against whole CaN, four structures are selectively labeled (with slightly decreasing intensity), i.e., infraciliary lattice (centrin-containing contractile cortical filament network), parasomal sacs (coated pits), and outlines of alveolar sacs (subplasmalemmal calcium stores, tightly attached to the cell membrane), as well as rims of chromatin-containing nuclear domains. In other subcellular regions, gold granules reached densities three to four times above background outside the cell but there was no selective enrichment, e.g., in cilia, ciliary basal bodies, cytosol, mitochondria, trichocysts (dense-core secretory organelles), and non-chromatin nuclear domains. Their labeling density was 4- to 8.5-fold (average 6.5-fold) less than that on selectively labeled structures. Labeling tendency was about the same with Abs against either subunit. Our findings may facilitate the examination of molecular targets contained in the selectively labeled structures.
Scripture in Christian formation: Pedagogy, reading practice and scriptural exemplars
Authors: Briggs Richard S.
Published: February 2011

Dale Martin’s Pedagogy of the Bible sets out a vision for a revised approach to Christian formation that is focused around some traditional modes of Bible reading. The loss of such traditional modes of reading is traced via Hans Frei’s analysis of Scripture as a literal and ascriptive text, an understanding ‘eclipsed’ in modern times, including in the seminary. It is suggested that seminary teachers might consider turning to scriptural exemplars of reading Scripture to develop their approach. Sample studies are Psalm 1, Daniel 9 and Luke 24.
Developmental changes in using nominal number inflections in Kuwaiti Arabic
Authors: Aljenaie Khawla , Abdalla Fauzia , Farghal Mohammad
Published: February 2011

The acquisition of dual and plural nominal marking was examined. Forty-four Kuwaiti Arabic-speaking children aged 4–9 years were presented with a set of pictured stimuli of real and nonsense words and were asked to provide the plural and dual form. The results showed that Feminine Sound Plural (FSP) was used early on and more frequently than the Masculine Sound Plural (MSP) and the Broken Plural (BP). FSP was noticeably employed as the default form by younger children before differentiation gained ground, and it was often overgeneralized to MSP and BP. The children showed higher accuracy in using the dual than the plural forms. Finally, young children tended to use non-conventional ways to express number marking before acquiring target forms.
A comparative and dynamic approach to the development of determiner use in three children acquiring different languages
Authors: Bassano Dominique , Maillochon Isabelle , Korecky-Kröll Katharina , van Dijk Marijn , Laaha Sabine , Dressler Wolfgang U. , van Geert Paul
Published: February 2011

The study investigates the development of determiner use in three children acquiring French, Austrian German and Dutch, from the onset of language until age 3;0. Noun constructions (determiner omission, correct bare nouns, filler and determiner uses) in the children and in their inputs are analysed, providing evidence of similarities in developmental shape as well as differences in frequencies and timing. As expected, determiner use was delayed in the Germanic languages as compared to French. Differences between the Austrian and the Dutch child were explained by language properties and by child characteristics. Modelling dynamic input–output relations provided evidence of styles of long-term parental adaptation (accommodation for the French and complementarity for the Dutch and Austrian children).
Parental explanations of vocabulary during shared book reading: A missed opportunity
Authors: Evans Mary Ann , Reynolds Kailey , Shaw Debora , Pursoo Tiffany
Published: February 2011

Two studies investigated discussions of the meaning of unusual vocabulary encountered during shared book reading. In Study 1 parent–child dyads were observed longitudinally in senior kindergarten through grade 2 reading short storybooks below, at and just above the child’s reading level. Here children did most of the reading. In Study 2 a second sample of parents of children in grade 1 all read the same book to their child. This book had numerous unfamiliar words, allowing an investigation of the characteristics of the words themselves that might influence whether parents and children discuss their meaning. In both studies a striking percentage of novel words encountered were not explained. Unusual words appearing last on a page’s text were more likely to be discussed than were words appearing earlier on the page.
I Feel Like I Know You: Sharing Negative Attitudes of Others Promotes Feelings of Familiarity
Authors: Weaver Jonathan R. , Bosson Jennifer K.
Published: February 2011

Holding similar negative—versus positive—attitudes toward a third party has been shown to predict increased closeness to a stranger. Here, the authors examined whether this effect is mediated by the heightened feelings of familiarity engendered by shared negative attitudes. In Study 1, participants who shared with a (bogus) stranger a negative attitude of a professor subsequently reported knowing more about the stranger than those who shared a positive attitude, but only when they did not feel strongly about the attitude. In Study 2, a familiarity manipulation produced high levels of closeness among participants who believed they had a lot of information about a stranger. Among those who believed they knew little about the stranger, closeness was facilitated by sharing a weakly held, negative attitude of a professor. Discussion considers the relevance of these findings to the interpersonal attraction literature.
He Says, She Says: Gender and Cohabitation
Authors: Huang Penelope M. , Smock Pamela J. , Manning Wendy D. , Bergstrom-Lynch Cara A.
Published: February 2011

Cohabitation has become the modal path to marriage in the United States. However, little is known about what cohabitation means to young adults today. Drawing on data from 18 focus groups ( N = 138) and 54 in-depth interviews with young adults, this exploratory study investigates motivations to cohabit and examines potential gender differences in those motivations and the meanings attached to them. The authors find that primary motives to cohabit include spending time together, sharing expenses, and evaluating compatibility. Strong gender differences emerge in how respondents discuss these themes and how they characterize the drawbacks of cohabitation, with men more concerned about loss of freedom and women with delays in marriage. Overall, the findings of this study suggest that gendered cultural norms governing intimate relationships extend to cohabiting unions and point to gender differences in the perceived role of cohabitation in union formation processes.
Z‐Palatopharyngoplasty Plus Genioglossus Advancement and Hyoid Suspension for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome
Authors: Yi Hong Liang , Sun Xiao Qiang , Chen Bin , Zhang Yu Jun , Guan Jian , Wu Hong Min , Meng Li Li , Yin Shan Kai
Published: February 2011

Objective

To explore the feasibility and efficiency of Z‐palato‐pharyngoplasty (ZPPP) plus genioglossus advancement and hyoid suspension (GAHM) for severe obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

A university medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Twenty‐six patients who had OSAHS with Friedman obstructive sleep apnea stage II/III and posterior airway space <11 mm received GAHM and ZPPP. All patients were reevaluated 6 months after surgery using the preoperative methods.

Results

Based on success criteria, defined as an apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) of <20 and a decrease >50%, the success rate was 46.2% at 6 months postoperatively. The AHI showed a significant reduction from 65.6 ± 17.6 preoperatively to 30.1 ± 23.1 postoperatively. The percentage of time with oxyhemoglobin saturation below 90% (CT90) decreased from 30.9% ± 28.1% preoperatively to 15.5% ± 25.6% postoperatively (P <. 01). Sleep architecture was effectively changed. The S3 + S4 percentage of total sleep time increased from 3.6% ± 4.4% to 8.7% ± 5.0% (P <. 05). The success rates were 100% (8/8) and 22.2% (4/18) in patients with Friedman obstructive sleep apnea stage II and III, respectively.

Conclusion

The success rate of ZPPP plus GAHM for patients with severe OSAHS who suffer from oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal obstruction was limited. Friedman stage was a predictor of ZPPP plus GAHM surgical success.
Injection Laryngoplasty for Type 1 Laryngeal Cleft in Children
Authors: Cohen Michael S. , Zhuang Lei , Simons Jeffrey P. , Chi David H. , Maguire Raymond C. , Mehta Deepak K.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To review the 2‐year, single‐institution experience with injection laryngoplasty for diagnosis and treatment of type 1 laryngeal clefts (LC‐1).

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Patients at our institution who underwent injection laryngoplasty for LC‐1 from January 2008 to December 2009. Outcome measures included patient demographics, surgical and anesthetic technique, effect on swallowing, and complications. Preoperative and postoperative swallowing evaluations were compared, and quality and duration of effects were calculated.

Results

Sixteen children, 9 male and 7 female, underwent injection laryngoplasty for LC‐1. Mean gestational age was 36.4 weeks (SD, 4.0 weeks; range, 27‐41 weeks). Six patients had a major congenital anomaly (37.5%). Mean age at injection was 11.8 months (SD, 8.9 months; range, 2.9‐33.5 months). Nine patients (56%) demonstrated complete resolution of penetration and aspiration on postoperative modified barium swallow (MBS), 4 patients (25%) had some improvement, and 3 patients (19%) showed no change. There were no complications. Mean duration of symptom improvement was 3.3 months (SD, 3.0 months; range, 0‐11 months). Five patients went on to have definitive surgical LC‐1 repair.

Conclusion

Injection laryngoplasty was found to have favorable results in this group of patients with LC‐1. Most patients experienced complete resolution of aspiration on MBS, and no patients experienced complications. These findings support the further study of injection laryngoplasty for LC‐1 as both a diagnostic and therapeutic technique. Longer follow‐up intervals are necessary to elucidate the predictive value with regard to success of formal cleft repair.
Inhaled Cidofovir as an Adjuvant Therapy for Recurrent Respiratory Papillomatosis
Authors: Ksiazek Jeffrey , Prager Jeremy D. , Sun Gordon H. , Wood Robert E. , Arjmand Ellis M.
Published: February 2011

A previously healthy, full‐term, 4‐month‐old boy presented with progressively weakening cry, hoarseness, and increased work of breathing. Flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy revealed glottic papillomas, which were endoscopically removed with a microdebrider in the operating room (Derkay score 23). The patient was diagnosed with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis that disseminated throughout his airway. Despite biweekly serial microdebridements, intralesional cidofovir, and systemic interferon‐α, the patient’s health declined substantially (Derkay score 40), culminating in a 47‐day hospitalization due to complications of his disease. Inhaled cidofovir was initiated after all conventional treatments had failed. Within 6 weeks of therapy (40 mg daily per treatment, 12 days on and 2 days off), the papillomatous disease improved substantially (Derkay score 23). While inhaled cidofovir appeared to significantly reduce papillomatous disease burden in this patient, further investigation into its long‐term effectiveness and safety profile is necessary.
Extent of Resection of the Lamina Papyracea in Medial Subperiosteal Abscess
Authors: Khalifa Badawy C.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To compare the surgical outcomes of minimal and wide resections of the lamina papyracea in cases with medial subperiosteal abscess.

Setting

University hospital.

Study Design

Case series and planned collection.

Materials and Methods

Thirteen patients with medial subperiosteal abscess as a complication of sinusitis were included in this study. All patients had reduced visual acuity and ophthalmoplegia. Each patient underwent endoscopic sinus surgery to treat the abscess. Age, sex, extent of lamina resection, postoperative vision status, ophthalmoplegia, and the return of orbit to its normal position were recorded.

Results

Eight (62%) and 5 (38%) patients underwent minimal and wide endoscopic lamina papyracea resection, respectively. Proptosis, visual acuity, and ophthalmoplegia returned to normal within 24 to 48 hours. All patients received medical treatment in the form of intravenous antibiotics and steroids. Neither technique required revision surgery.

Conclusion

Medial subperiosteal abscess is a serious medical condition that can lead to blindness. Endoscopic evacuation of the abscess is currently the treatment of choice. Minimal lamina papyracea resection may be sufficient to drain the abscess. It should be further evaluated as it may have the same result as wide lamina papyracea resection and wide exposure of the periorbit. The aim of the operation is to liberate the pus regardless of the extent of the resection. Revision surgery was not needed with either technique.
Craniofacial Injuries Due to Golf Cart Trauma
Authors: Miller Brandon L. , Waller Jennifer L. , McKinnon Brian J.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To characterize craniofacial injuries due to golf cart trauma.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Level 1 trauma center.

Subjects and Methods

A tertiary academic medical center’s trauma database was queried for golf cart–related trauma from 2000 to 2009 and returned 68 patients. Data were obtained from the trauma database and by individually reviewing patient charts.

Results

Of the 68 patients identified, 55% were male, with a median age of 13.4 years. Sixty‐nine percent had head injuries, with 32% sustaining skull or facial fracture and 20.6% intracranial hemorrhage. The highest Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) by region was the head and neck. The average Glasgow Coma Scale score was 14.2, Injury Severity Score (ISS) 9.0, hospital stay 4.5 days, and intensive care unit (ICU) stay 2.8 days; 36.8% were admitted to the ICU. Ejection and rollover were the most common mechanisms of injury, with ejection having a significantly higher head and neck AIS compared with rollover and hitting a stationary object (P =. 0055). Alcohol was detected in 59.2% of patients older than 16 years; the average blood alcohol concentration was 182.6 mg/dL. Children were involved 60.3% of the time, with an average age of 9.2 years, and children were passengers in the golf cart 69.2% of the time.

Conclusions

Golf cart trauma can cause significant craniofacial injuries, particularly in the pediatric population and in adults who consume alcohol.
Applications and Outcomes of Orbital and Transorbital Endoscopic Surgery
Authors: Balakrishnan Karthik , Moe Kris S.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To prospectively evaluate the safety, effectiveness, and utility of orbital and transorbital endoscopic surgery.

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

Level 1 trauma center and tertiary academic hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Consecutive sample of 107 patients undergoing orbital or transorbital endoscopic operations.

Main Outcome Measures

Ability to achieve intraoperative goals using endoscopic approach; occurrence of predetermined intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Results

One hundred seven patients (aged 6‐83 years) underwent orbital or transorbital endoscopic surgery for 6 different indications. Seven incisions were used. Endoscopic orbitotomies were made through all 4 orbital walls to access surrounding structures. Intraoperative goals were achieved endoscopically in 106 patients. Mean follow‐up was 3 months (mean ± SD, 3.0 ± 3.5). No complication was directly related to surgical approach or use of endoscopy. Seventeen complications were detected in 2 categories: persistent diplopia and persistent vision change. No patient had vision loss. No nonfracture patient suffered a complication. Subgroup analysis demonstrated no difference in surgical success rates when compared with transnasal and transantral medial orbital wall and orbital floor repair and cerebrospinal fluid leak repair. Endoscopic visualization was advantageous in several respects: superior visualization and lighting, particularly posterior to the equator of the globe; image magnification; and video monitoring for education and operating room staff involvement. It also facilitated surgical navigation and computer‐aided reconstruction.

Conclusion

Orbital and transorbital endoscopy are versatile, effective, and safe approaches useful for addressing diverse urgent and elective problems. In appropriate clinical situations, these procedures may offer better access and visualization than open or transnasal approaches.
Complications in Pediatric Osseointegrated Implantation
Authors: Ida Jonathan B. , Mansfield Sara , Meinzen‐Derr Jareen K. , Choo Daniel I.
Published: February 2011

Objective

To report an accurate complication rate in pediatric osseointegrated implants in a large cohort of patients from a major center and to characterize the complications observed.

Setting

Tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Study Design

Case series with chart review of all consecutive patients receiving otologic osseointegrated implants at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital since 2001.

Subjects and Methods

All patients undergoing osseointegrated implant placement were identified at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, and complication rates were tabulated and stratified to major and minor based on the need for surgical revision. Evaluations of syndromic and body mass index associations were performed, along with evaluation of length of follow‐up.

Results

Forty‐three patients were identified with 88 implants placed. Eighteen (42%) children had a diagnosis of a craniofacial syndrome. Overall, 19 (41.9%) returned to the operating suite, with a complication rate of 46.1%. A long duration of follow‐up was obtained, and with this was identified an increasing risk of complications over time. Also identified was a significantly increased complication risk associated with a craniofacial syndrome. Body mass index was not found to be associated with complications.

Conclusion

Osseointegrated implants require frequent maintenance care from the surgeon. Complication rates are higher for children with a diagnosis of a craniofacial syndrome, and the risk of a complication increases significantly over a prolonged period of time.
Prospective Long-Term Outcomes of the Medial Collagen Meniscus Implant Versus Partial Medial Meniscectomy
Authors: Zaffagnini Stefano , Marcheggiani Muccioli Giulio Maria , Lopomo Nicola , Bruni Danilo , Giordano Giovanni , Ravazzolo Giovanni , Molinari Massimo , Marcacci Maurilio
Published: February 2011

Background: Loss of meniscal tissue can be responsible for increased pain and decreased function.

Hypothesis: At a minimum 10-year follow-up, patients receiving a medial collagen meniscus implant (MCMI) would show better clinical, radiological, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes than patients treated with partial medial meniscectomy (PMM).

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence 2.

Methods: Thirty-three nonconsecutive patients (men; mean age, 40 years) with meniscal injuries were enrolled in the study to receive MCMI or to serve as a control patient treated with PMM. The choice of treatment was decided by the patient. All patients were clinically evaluated at time 0 and at 5 years and a minimum of 10 years after surgery (mean follow-up, 133 months) by Lysholm, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, objective International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) knee form, and Tegner activity level scores. The SF-36 score was performed preoperatively and at final follow-up. Bilateral weightbearing radiographs were completed before the index surgery and at final follow-up. Minimum 10-year follow-up MRI images were compared with preoperative MRI images by means of the Yulish score. The Genovese score was also used to evalute MCMI MRI survivorship.

Results: The MCMI group, compared with the PMM one, showed significantly lower VAS for pain (1.2 ± 0.9 vs 3.3 ± 1.8; P = .004) and higher objective IKDC (7A and 10B for MCMI, 4B and 12C for PMM; P = .0001), Teger index (75 ± 27.5 vs 50 ± 11.67; P = .026), and SF-36 (53.9 ± 4.0 vs 44.1 ± 9.2; P = .026 for Physical Health Index; 54.7 ± 3.8 vs 43.8 ± 6.5; P = .004 for Mental Health Index) scores. Radiographic evaluation showed significantly less medial joint space narrowing in the MCMI group than in the PMM group (0.48 ± 0.63 mm vs 2.13 ± 0.79 mm; P = .0003). No significant differences between groups were reported regarding Lysholm ( P = .062) and Yulish ( P = .122) scores. Genovese score remained constant between 5 and 10 years after surgery ( P = .5). The MRI evaluation of the MCMI patients revealed 11 cases of myxoid degeneration signal: 4 had a normal signal with reduced size, and 2 had no recognizable implant.

Conclusion: Pain, activity level, and radiological outcomes are significantly improved with use of the MCMI at a minimum 10-year follow-up compared with PMM alone. Randomized controlled trials on a larger population are necessary to confirm MCMI benefits at long term.
Knee Injuries and the Use of Prophylactic Knee Bracing in Off-road Motorcycling
Authors: Sanders Mark S. , Cates Robert A. , Baker Michael D. , Barber-Westin Sue D. , Gladin Wesley M. , Levy Martin S.
Published: February 2011

Background: The effectiveness of prophylactic knee bracing in preventing knee injuries during sports has been evaluated; however, because of the variability in study conclusions, the topic remains controversial. Despite a paucity of data, the authors believe that prophylactic knee bracing is frequently used in off-road motorcycling.

Hypothesis: No statistically significant difference exists in the frequency and types of knee injuries incurred between braced and nonbraced riders using commercially available knee braces in off-road motorcycling.

Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods: Data from 2115 off-road motorcycle riders was obtained using an Internet-based survey over a 1-year period. Participants were grouped by use or nonuse of prophylactic knee bracing, and an incidence rate ratio was used for injury rate comparison.

Results: Participants recorded 39 611 riding hours over the study period. A total of 57 riders (2.7%) sustained at least 1 knee injury, for a total of 89 injuries. The most common injuries involved the anterior cruciate ligament, menisci, and medial collateral ligament. There was a significantly higher rate of overall injuries in the nonbraced group versus the braced group (3.675 vs 1.587 per 1000 rider hours, P < .001). Significantly higher incidence rates of anterior cruciate ligament rupture (1.518 vs 0.701 per 1000 rider hours, P = .0274) and medial collateral ligament injury (0.799 vs 0.111 per 1000 rider hours, P = .002) were found among nonbraced riders compared with braced riders.

Conclusion: The most common knee injuries in off-road motorcycling involve the anterior cruciate ligament, menisci, and medial collateral ligament. The use of prophylactic knee bracing appears to have a beneficial effect in preventing medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament injuries as well as overall knee injury occurrence. These findings may be applicable to other sports that involve similar forces and mechanics.
Contribution of Base, Crib, and Shoulder Ballast to the Lateral Sliding Resistance of Railway Track: A Geotechnical Perspective
Authors: Le Pen L M , Powrie W
Published: February 2011

The sleeper to ballast interface plays a crucial role in the stability of ballasted railway track, transferring both vertical and lateral loads safely from the superstructure to the sub-base. However, current conceptual models for the behaviour of the interface are incomplete and too simplistic to assess the response of the track system to the loads exerted by modern trains. For example, the increased curving speeds associated with tilting trains introduce potentially significant combinations of vertical, lateral, and moment loading which are not explicitly considered in current assessment procedures. Also, the relative contributions of the base, crib, and shoulder ballast to lateral sliding resistance are at present poorly quantified. The behaviour of the sleeper to ballast interface was investigated in a series of tests in an apparatus capable of applying combinations of load representative of real trains. This article presents test data quantifying the relative contributions to total sliding resistance of the base, crib, and shoulder. New calculations are presented, which enable the resistance from the crib and various sizes of shoulder ballast to be quantified. The results of the experiments and calculations are compared with each other and with the literature, and reasonably consistent patterns of behaviour are identified.
Ground Vibration from Trains: Experimental Parameter Characterization and Validation of a Numerical Model
Authors: Triepaischajonsak N , Thompson D J , Jones C J C , Ryue J , Priest J A
Published: February 2011

Trains running on railway tracks on the surface of the ground or in tunnels induce vibrations in the ground which propagate away from the track. These may be experienced as feelable vibration or as audible rumbling noise in the buildings nearby, both of which are difficult to control. As the properties of the ground differ widely between locations they must be characterized for a particular site in order to make reliable predictions. This article describes field measurements of the vibration at two sites with soft clay soil in Southern England. The properties of the ground material, including its layered structure, have been identified from comparisons between results of a layered ground model and measurements obtained using impact excitation. Presentation in the wavenumber-frequency domain is particularly helpful for this purpose. Measurements of vibrations from passing trains are then compared with predictions using a semianalytical model for ground vibration from trains and good agreement is found.
The Effect of Driving Strategy on Hybrid Regional Diesel Trains
Authors: Read M G , Griffiths C , Smith R A
Published: February 2011

Vehicle braking in non-electrified rail systems wastes energy. This article considers two approaches to reducing braking losses in regional diesel trains: efficient driving strategies and regenerative braking. The interaction of these two approaches is critical in specifying the requirements of a hybrid train and assessing the relative fuel saving. Computational models of conventional and hybrid diesel-hydrodynamic regional trains have been developed using real route data to generate a simple control algorithm and investigate the effect of driving strategy on fuel consumption and journey time. The current modelling predicts fuel savings of up to 40 per cent for the hybrid train when an aggressive control strategy is used. This fuel saving is halved when an efficient driving strategy is employed, which also reduces the required energy storage capacity. The model provides a tool for identifying effective control strategies which should be implemented to reduce fuel consumption for both conventional and hybrid trains.
The Impact of Automation in Rail Signalling Operations
Authors: Sharples S , Millen L , Golightly D , Balfe N
Published: February 2011

Rail signalling in the UK has seen a move from mechanical lever frame boxes to entry and exit signalling, and on through to situating signallers within a visual display unit-based workstation environment. These developments have taken place in tandem with changes such as making the signallers more remote from their area of control and the introduction of automation. These changes have implications not only at a cognitive level for factors such as workload and situation awareness, but also at an organizational level, such as the shift away from traditional career progression, and the resulting implications for training and the development of expertise. Understanding the implications of the signalling interface and the design implementation of automation is critical in facilitating more effective performance, safety, and signaller well-being, as well as informing the design of future rail control systems. Bainbridge articulated a set of ironies of automation — unintended consequences of introducing automation that may not be beneficial to the overall system effectiveness. The work presented in this article uses a structured observation approach to examine behavioural indicators of the impact of automation, either as a successful tool to support signalling or as a source of some or all of the ironies noted by Bainbridge. The work was conducted over a period of 2 years, to investigate the effect of levels of automation on rail signallers’ activity and workload as part of the EPSRC Rail Research UK B6 programme.
Introducing New Technology to the Railway Industry: System-Wide Incentives and Impacts
Authors: Lovell K , Bouch C , Smith A , Nash C , Roberts C , Wheat P , Griffiths C , Smith R
Published: February 2011

This article is concerned with the role of innovation in cost reduction and the mechanisms for bringing it about. In the first section, it investigates the efficiency of UK's railways through the medium of cost benchmarking of both UK and continental European costs. It finds that Britain's rail infrastructure manager faces an efficiency gap of 40 per cent against European best practice and that train operating costs have also risen substantially, both because of rising factor prices (wages and fuel) and because of deteriorating productivity. It then explores the situation surrounding incentives for shaping technological innovation through a series of semistructured interviews with senior managers representing a wide range of railway interests. This section highlights the presence and successful functioning of the commercial mechanism for technology development in the industry both through natural commercial factors and through mechanisms such as track access charges. Finally, it studies the feasibility of modelling systems subject to technological change, with the aim of creating a methodology to assess, at an early stage in the development cycle, the physical impact innovation might have on the existing system. It finds that the objective data needed to construct such models can be extracted from existing technical standards and that systems engineering techniques provide a suitable framework for structuring and linking that data.
An Assessment of Transition Zone Performance
Authors: Coelho B , Hölscher P , Priest J , Powrie W , Barends F
Published: February 2011

Transition zones between railway tracks on embankments or natural ground, and fixed substructures such as bridges and culverts, typically require extensive maintenance to retain acceptable track geometry. These high maintenance costs and the potential to cause delays to train services are of major concern for railway infrastructure managers. In view of the importance of the problem, surprisingly little research has been carried out to identify the fundamental causes of the poor performance of transition zones. To better understand the physical mechanisms involved, an extensive monitoring and investigation programme was undertaken on a typical transition zone in the Netherlands, comprising reinforced concrete approach slabs linking the normal track onto a concrete culvert. Accelerations and velocities of the track, soil, and approach slabs in response to passenger trains were measured, from which displacements were calculated. In addition, track settlements and pore water pressures were monitored over a 1-year period. This article presents and discusses the measurements made. The results highlight the problems associated with track quality at a transition zone, including the large dynamic displacements induced during train passage and the tendency for ongoing long-term movement. The implications of these for design and maintenance are discussed.
Condition Monitoring Opportunities Using Vehicle-Based Sensors
Authors: Ward C P , Weston P F , Stewart E J C , Li H , Goodall R M , Roberts C , Mei T X , Charles G , Dixon R
Published: February 2011

Recent increases in railway patronage worldwide have created pressure on rolling stock and railway infrastructure through the demand to improve the capacity and punctuality of the whole system, and this demand must also be balanced with reducing life-cycle costs. Condition monitoring is seen as a significant contributor in achieving this. The emphasis of this article is on the use of sensors mounted on rolling stock to monitor the condition of infrastructure and the rolling stock itself. This is set in the context of modern rolling stock being fitted with high-capacity communication buses and multiple sensors, resulting in the potential for advanced processing of collected data. This article brings together linked research that uses a similar set of rolling stock sensors, and discusses: general usage and benefits, a track defect detection method, running gear condition monitoring, and absolute train speed detection.
Decreased paraoxonase 1 activity and increased oxidative stress in low lead−exposed workers
Authors: Permpongpaiboon Thinnakorn , Nagila Amar , Pidetcha Phannee , Tuangmungsakulchai Kulwadee , Tantrarongroj Soontharee , Porntadavity Sureerut
Published: February 2011

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has been proposed as an antioxidant enzyme. Although lead-inhibited PON1 activity has been demonstrated mostly based on in vitro experiments, it is uncertain whether this phenomenon is relevant in pathogenesis of lead-induced oxidative stress in the lead exposure. We examined associations of blood lead levels (BLL) and PON1 activity along with oxidative stress parameters in lead exposure workers. We determined malondialdehyde (MDA), conjugated diene (CD), total peroxides (TP), total antioxidant status (TAS), the oxidative stress index (OSI), and PON1 activity in earthenware factory workers ( n = 60) and control subjects ( n = 65). The lead-exposed group significantly increased lipid peroxidation parameters and OSI compared to the control group ( p < 0.001). The lead-exposed group had significantly decreased PON1 activity and TAS levels compared to the control group ( p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that BLL were significantly correlated with decreased TAS ( r = −0.496) and PON1 activity ( r = −0.434), but with increased CD ( r = 0.694), TP ( r = 0.614), MDA ( r = 0.788), and OSI ( r = 0.722). Interestingly, BLL at 10 µg/dL significantly decreased PON1 activity and increased oxidative stress parameters with insignificant changes in other biochemical and hematological parameters. Altogether, the reduction of PON1 activity may associate in an imbalance in pro-oxidants and antioxidants, leading to oxidative damage in lead-exposed workers even at low BLL.
Effects of selected South African plant extracts on haemolysis and coagulation
Authors: Cordier Werner , Cromarty Allan D , Botha Elsabie , Steenkamp Vanessa
Published: February 2011

The use of herbal preparations for staunching blood flow and reducing the risk of vascular thrombosis is common worldwide. In this study, aqueous and methanolic extracts of plants used to treat blood-associated complaints were investigated to determine their effects on red blood cell haemolysis and coagulation. The extent of haemolysis was determined spectrophotometrically. Prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) as indicators of coagulation rate were determined using a coagulatometer. All of the plant extracts tested had a significant effect on coagulation time, prolonging the aPTT. Cassia petersiana had the greatest prolonging effect on PT compared to the control, phosphate buffered saline (PBS). As all of the herbal extracts tested had a delaying effect on coagulation, patients using herbal/plant therapies should be cautioned to stop their medication before surgery.
Reality Therapy and Choice Theory: An Interview With Robert Wubbolding
Authors: Robey Patricia A.
Published: February 2011

This article presents an interview with Dr. Robert Wubbolding, Director of Training for the William Glasser Institute. Wubbolding provides a short background of Glasser’s Choice Theory and Reality Therapy and answers some frequently asked questions about this theory and practice. Wubbolding discusses the application of these ideas in work with couples and families, in work with systems, and in the field of mental health.
Fiscal Rules and Federalism as Determinants of Budget Performance
Authors: Argimón Isabel , Cos Pablo Hernández de
Published: February 2011

This article analyses the role of different potential determinants on the fiscal results of the Spanish regions (RGs). The empirical analysis suggests several conclusions. First, the fiscal rule in force between 1992 and 1998 does not appear to have had a significant effect on the fiscal balances of the autonomous regions. With regard to the degree of fiscal autonomy, a higher level in this variable is associated with a more disciplined behavior by RGs. The results also show that the greater transfer of tax revenues to the RGs, associated with a greater devolution of power, has generated greater dependency of fiscal performance on the economic cycle. There is also a strong inertial component in the implementation of fiscal policy in RGs.
Scripture, structure and the formation of Catholic parties: The case of Venezuela
Authors: Mantilla Luis Felipe
Published: February 2011

What accounts for the virtual absence of new Catholic parties in Latin America over the past four decades? From the late nineteenth to the mid-twentieth centuries, Catholic activists organized a variety of political parties in the region. Yet since the 1970s, despite the dramatic expansion of political opportunities in Catholic-majority countries, Catholicism has played only a marginal role in the formation of new parties. This article develops a novel interpretation of this phenomenon, arguing that changes in the structure of religious communities and church–society relations resulting from the reforms of the Second Vatican Council account for the absence of new Catholic parties. Empirically, it explores this topic through the structured, focused comparison of two periods of social and political upheaval in Venezuela.
Policy-seeking parties in multiparty systems: Influence or purity?
Authors: Pedersen Helene Helboe
Published: February 2011

According to the standard policy-seeking model of party behaviour, a party should always want to join a coalition if its inclusion would decrease the policy distance between the party and the winning coalition. However, in multiparty systems where no party has a majority, policy influence always comes at a cost to the party’s preferred policy. A party has to moderate its own policy principles in order to join winning coalitions and influence public policy. Based on data from 14 Danish parties from 1971 to 2005, this article shows that the policy-seeking behaviour of political parties is affected by the organizational constraints a party poses on its representatives in parliament. Parties strongly constrained by the party organization tend to ask more questions and raise more interpellations in parliament than parties with weaker organizational constraints. These latter parties, on the other hand, tend to participate more frequently in winning legislative coalitions.
Hotel Occupancy: Is the Three-Year Stabilization Assumption Justified?
Authors: O'Neill John W.
Published: February 2011

Corporate and private hotel developers, appraisers, and consultants must make an assumption regarding the period of time it will take a new hotel to reach a stabilized occupancy level. Historically, most developers of future hotel occupancy estimates have assumed a three-year build-up period, although empirical research has not tested this assumption. This research project tests that assumption by analyzing the actual occupancy rates of 3,699 hotels that opened during the previous economic cycle. In addition, this project evaluates the stabilization period based on hotel type, location, size, and service level. This exploratory study develops guidance for analysts of hotel occupancies by evaluating the absolute level of stabilized occupancy by hotel type in an effort to assist with refining the accuracy of prospective financial analyses for new hotels. While this project finds support for the use of a three-year occupancy build-up, it concludes that certain hotel types and locations stabilize more slowly or more quickly, whereas hotel size and service level are not significant determinants of stabilization period. Also, this project finds that certain hotel types stabilize at significantly higher occupancy rates than others.
Visualization and Modelling to Understand Rail Rolling Contact Fatigue Cracks in Three Dimensions
Authors: Garnham J E , Fletcher D I , Davis C L , Franklin F J
Published: February 2011

The article presents an extensive survey of experimental data on rolling contact fatigue (RCF) crack shape and propagation characteristics in rails removed from service, where such cracks are angled to the rail axis. The data include re-analysis of previously published experimental data to extract crack shape information and new experimental work on crack shapes at different stages in the early RCF life. Periods from initiation (ratcheted ‘flake cracks’) have been considered through very early growth to the limit of one prior austenite (PA) grain and on to rail-head visual cracks. Techniques included multi-sectioning through single cracks and crack zones, on used rail and test discs, to build up real three-dimensional (3D) data on crack shapes and propagation characteristics. This data have been compared with the UK rail system guidance charts relating to visual crack length and respective vertical depth; all data fell within the indicated guidance zones. The configuration of such angled cracks, typically found in curves, so aligned due to the vector of both lateral and longitudinal traction, rather than just axially, was identified as an important case for modelling. A fracture mechanics-based model has been developed to predict modes I and II stress intensity factors for such cracks covering multiple PA grains. An important geometry effect is revealed by which a contact approaching a crack angled to the rail axis is effectively ‘offset’ from the approach direction considered in 2D models, thereby resulting in lower predicted peak stress intensity factor values, compared with 2D, for the prediction of crack growth rates.
Digital Nomenclature Code for Topology and Kinematics of Finite Elements Based on the Absolute Nodal Co-Ordinate Formulation
Authors: Dmitrochenko O , Mikkola A
Published: February 2011

The role of the absolute nodal co-ordinate formulation (ANCF) within the finite-element method is studied. To this end, the topological and kinematic structure of an arbitrary finite element is represented by a multi-digit code that reflects the topological structure of the element. The multi-digit code of an element is based on dimension d, the number of nodes n, the number of scalar co-ordinates per node c, and a multiplier m. The multiplier is needed in the nomenclature to describe a vectorization procedure that allows transforming a conventional finite element to an ANCF element. The introduced classification procedure enables the description of previously undefined finite elements. The code allows for a systematic enumeration of finite elements and reflects interrelations and transformations between them. A universal procedure can be proposed to construct the geometrical and structural matrices of a finite element by its code dncm. The elements of such a procedure are discussed in the article.