bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
UK stroke incidence, mortality and cardiovascular risk management 1999–2008: time-trend analysis from the General Practice Research Database
Authors: Lee Sally , Shafe Anna C E , Cowie Martin R
Published: October 2011

Objectives

Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to investigate secular trends in stroke across the UK.

Design

This study aimed to investigate recent trends in the epidemiology of stroke in the UK. The study was a time-trend analysis from 1999 to 2008 within the UK General Practice Research Database. Outcome measures were incidence and prevalence of stroke, stroke mortality, rate of secondary cardiovascular events, and prescribing of pharmacological therapy for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.

Results

The study cohort included 32 151 patients with a first stroke. Stroke incidence fell by 30%, from 1.48/1000 person-years in 1999 to 1.04/1000 person-years in 2008 (p<0.001). Stroke prevalence increased by 12.5%, from 6.40/1000 in 1999 to 7.20/1000 in 2008 (p<0.001). 56-day mortality after first stroke reduced from 21% in 1999 to 12% in 2008 (p<0.0001). Prescribing of drugs to control cardiovascular risk factors increased consistently over the study period, particularly for lipid lowering agents and antihypertensive agents. In patients with atrial fibrillation, use of anticoagulants prior to first stroke did not increase with increasing stroke risk.

Conclusion

Stroke incidence in the UK has decreased and survival after stroke has improved in the past 10 years. Improved drug treatment in primary care is likely to be a major contributor to this, with better control of risk factors both before and after incident stroke. There is, however, scope for further improvement in risk factor reduction in high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation.
Analysis of maxillofacial injuries caused by the 2010 Yushu earthquake in China
Authors: Guo Lijuan , Guo Weihua , Li Rui , Sheng Lei , Yang Bo , Tang Wei , Liu Lei , Jing Wei , Wang Hang , Tian Weidong
Published: October 2011

Background

The condition of maxillofacial injuries after a major earthquake is not well understood because of limited data. The purpose of this study was to describe the maxillofacial injuries caused by the 2010 Yushu earthquake in China.

Methods

A total of 126 patients treated for seismic-related injuries at hospitals in the Chengdu area were investigated. Of the 126 patients, 46 (36.5%) had maxillofacial injuries. Gender, age, nationality and injury condition were recorded by talking with the patients and their families. The data were analysed using Microsoft Access 2003 and SPSS software programs.

Results

For the 46 patients, the female to male ratio was 1.3:1 and the mean age was 36.7 years. Most patients (41, 89.1%) were Tibetan. The most frequent cause of maxillofacial injury was pressing/burying (34 patients, 73.9%). All patients with maxillofacial injuries sustained soft-tissue injuries, 13.0% had facial fractures and 4.3% had dentoalveolar injuries. The soft-tissue injuries were largely combined injuries; 84.8% were bruises and 80.4% were lacerations. The most common injury site was the zygomatic region (54.3%), followed by the forehead (43.5%) and the orbital region (34.8%). Of the six facial fractures, four involved nasal–orbital–ethmoidal region fractures. Most of the maxillofacial injuries (78.3%) were associated with other injuries, of which extremity injuries (55.6%) were the most common.

Conclusion

An analysis of the maxillofacial injuries sustained during the Yushu earthquake revealed some of the features of seismic-related maxillofacial injuries. The results from this study may help physicians provide better medical services during future disasters.
The illusion of plenty: hyperstability masks collapses in two recreational fisheries that target fish spawning aggregations
Authors: Erisman Brad E. , Allen Larry G. , Claisse Jeremy T. , Pondella Daniel J. , Miller Eric F. , Murray Jason H.
Published: October 2011

Fisheries that target fish spawning aggregations can exhibit hyperstability, in which catch per unit effort (CPUE) remains elevated as stock abundance declines, but empirical support is limited. We compiled several fishery-dependent and fishery-independent data sets to assess stock trends in the barred sand bass ( Paralabrax nebulifer ) and the kelp bass ( Paralabrax clathratus ) in southern California, USA, evaluate the interaction between spawning aggregations and fishing activities, and test for hyperstability. Annual and seasonal trends from fisheries and population data indicate that regional stocks of both species have collapsed in response to overfishing of spawning aggregations and changes in environmental conditions. The aggregating behavior of fish and persistent targeting of spawning aggregations by recreational fisheries combined to produce a hyperstable relationship between CPUE and stock abundance in both species, which created the illusion that population levels were stable and masked fishery collapses. Differences in the rate of decline between the two species may be related to the size, duration, and spatial distribution of their spawning aggregations. Results of this study provide empirical evidence of hyperstability in aggregation-based fisheries and demonstrate that CPUE data be used with caution and given low weight when fishery-independent data are available.
Factors associated with bone turnover and speed of sound in early and late-pubertal females
Authors: Klentrou Panagiota , Ludwa Izabella A. , Falk Bareket
Published: October 2011

This cross-sectional study examines whether maturity, body composition, physical activity, dietary intake, and hormonal concentrations are related to markers of bone turnover and tibial speed of sound (tSOS) in premenarcheal (n = 20, 10.1 ± 1.1 years) and postmenarcheal girls (n = 28, aged 15.0 ± 1.4 years). Somatic maturity was evaluated using years from age of peak height velocity (aPHV). Daily dietary intake was assessed with a 24-h recall interview, and moderate to very vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was measured using accelerometry. Plasma levels of 25-OH vitamin D, serum levels of insulin-like growth-factor 1 (IGF-1) and leptin, and serum levels of bone turnover markers including osteocalcin (OC), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and cross-linked N-teleopeptide of type I collagen (NTX) were measured using ELISA. OC, BAP, and NTX were significantly higher while IGF-1 and tSOS were lower in the premenarcheal group. The premenarcheal girls were more active and had higher daily energy intake relative to their body mass but there were no group differences in body mass index percentile. Maturity predicted 40%–57% of the variance in bone turnover markers. Additionally, daily energy intake was a significant predictor of OC, especially in the postmenarcheal group. IGF-1 and MVPA were significant predictors of BAP in the group as a whole. However, examined separately, IGF-1 was a predictor of BAP in the premenarcheal group while MVPA was a predictor in the postmenarcheal group. Adiposity and leptin were both negative predictors of tSOS, with leptin being specifically predictive in the postmenarcheal group. In conclusion, while maturity was the strongest predictor of bone markers and tSOS, dietary intake, physical activity, body composition, and hormonal factors further contribute to the variance in bone turnover and bone SOS in young Caucasian females. Further, the predicting factors of bone turnover and tSOS were different within each maturity group.
TRPM5 is critical for linoleic acid-induced CCK secretion from the enteroendocrine cell line, STC-1
Authors: Shah Bhavik P. , Liu Pin , Yu Tian , Hansen Dane R. , Gilbertson Timothy A.
Published: October 2011

Fatty acid-induced stimulation of enteroendocrine cells leads to release of the hormones such as cholecystokinin (CCK) that contribute to satiety. Recently, the fatty acid activated G protein-coupled receptor GPR120 has been shown to mediate long-chain unsaturated free fatty acid-induced CCK release from the enteroendocrine cell line, STC-1, yet the downstream signaling pathway remains unclear. Here we show that linoleic acid (LA) elicits membrane depolarization and an intracellular calcium rise in STC-1 cells and that these responses are significantly reduced when activity of G proteins or phospholipase C is blocked. LA leads to activation of monovalent cation-specific transient receptor potential channel type M5 (TRPM5) in STC-1 cells. LA-induced TRPM5 currents are significantly reduced when expression of TRPM5 or GPR120 is reduced using RNA interference. Furthermore, the LA-induced rise in intracellular calcium and CCK secretion is greatly diminished when expression of TRPM5 channels is reduced using RNA interference, consistent with a role of TRPM5 in LA-induced CCK secretion in STC-1 cells.
Glutamine modulates lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of NF-κB via the Akt/mTOR pathway in lung epithelial cells
Authors: Hou Yu-Chen , Chiu Wan-Chun , Yeh Chiu-Li , Yeh Sung-Ling
Published: October 2011

Lung epithelial cells are important barriers in the respiratory system that provoke inflammatory responses through nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation to prevent pathogens from invading the body. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a common pathogen-associated stimulus that activates IκB kinase (IKK) to regulate NF-κB-mediated inflammation through modulating nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of NF-κB. Previously, it was shown that Akt and the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) are involved in the phosphorylation of IKK to activate NF-κB. Herein, we demonstrate that glutamine (GLN) modulated LPS-induced activation of NF-κB through the Akt/mTOR/IKK pathway in BEAS-2B cells. BEAS-2B cells in submerged culture were placed in medium containing different concentrations of GLN (0, 0.5, 1, and 2.5 mM) with 1 μg/ml LPS. Results showed that GLN deprivation induced phosphorylation of Akt/mTOR/IKK signaling, increased levels of NF-κB nuclear translocation and phosphorylated NF-κB, and upregulated NF-κB-dependent transcriptional activity, which was suppressed by GLN administration. Expressions of NF-κB-targeted genes were also reduced by supplemental GLN. GLN administration improved cell viability, whereas 0.5 mM GLN had a greater extent of inhibition on the Akt/mTOR/IKK/NF-κB signaling cascade. The inhibitory effects of GLN on NF-κB activation were also observed in cells cultured under air-liquid interface condition. These results indicate that GLN deprivation increased LPS-induced NF-κB activation and transcriptional activity, which was reversed by GLN administration. The findings provide potential mechanisms of GLN's modulation of LPS-induced NF-κB activation in lung epithelial cells and imply that maintaining a physiological concentration of GLN is essential in preventing LPS-induced lung inflammation.
Changes in H reflex and V wave following short-term endurance and strength training
Authors: Vila-Chã Carolina , Falla Deborah , Correia Miguel Velhote , Farina Dario
Published: October 2011

This study examined the effects of 3 wk of either endurance or strength training on plasticity of the neural mechanisms involved in the soleus H reflex and V wave. Twenty-five sedentary healthy subjects were randomized into an endurance group ( n = 13) or strength group ( n = 12). Evoked V-wave, H-reflex, and M-wave recruitment curves, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), and time-to-task-failure (isometric contraction at 40% MVC) of the plantar flexors were recorded before and after training. Following strength training, MVC of the plantar flexors increased by 14.4 ± 5.2% in the strength group ( P < 0.001), whereas time-to-task-failure was prolonged in the endurance group (22.7 ± 17.1%; P < 0.05). The V wave-to-maximal M wave (V/Mmax) ratio increased significantly (55.1 ± 28.3%; P < 0.001) following strength training, but the maximal H wave-to-maximal M wave (Hmax/Mmax) ratio remained unchanged. Conversely, in the endurance group the V/Mmax ratio was not altered, whereas the Hmax/Mmax ratio increased by 30.8 ± 21.7% ( P < 0.05). The endurance training group also displayed a reduction in the H-reflex excitability threshold while the H-reflex amplitude on the ascending limb of the recruitment curve increased. Strength training only elicited a significant decrease in H-reflex excitability threshold, while H-reflex amplitudes over the ascending limb remained unchanged. These observations indicate that the H-reflex pathway is strongly involved in the enhanced endurance resistance that occurs following endurance training. On the contrary, the improvements in MVC following strength training are likely attributed to increased descending drive and/or modulation in afferents other than Ia afferents.
Measuring Outcome after Arterial Ischemic Stroke in Childhood with Two Different Instruments
Authors: Bulder M.M.M. , Hellmann P.M. , van Nieuwenhuizen O. , Kappelle L.J. , Klijn C.J.M. , Braun K.P.J.
Published: October 2011

Background: Assessment of outcome after childhood stroke is important both for clinical practice and for research purposes. The objective of this study was to compare two frequently used outcome measures. Methods: In 40 children with arterial ischemic stroke (AIS), dichotomized outcome obtained from the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure (PSOM) was compared with a dichotomized modified Rankin Scale (mRS) combined with information on type of school attendance. In addition, we compared dichotomized outcome, obtained from the PSOM and the mRS combined with school attendance, with the results of pediatric quality of life (PedsQL) questionnaires and the impressions of the child’s general functioning on a visual analogue scale (VAS) that was filled out by parents and investigators. Results: In 35 children (88%), outcome classification was concordant between the two outcome measures. Five children had a poor outcome according to the PSOM and good outcome with the mRS including school performance. In these patients, mRS outcome classification agreed better with the impression of the investigators, as reflected by VAS scores ≧7.5. For both the PSOM and mRS in combination with school performance, patients with a good outcome had significantly higher PedsQL and VAS scores than those with a poor outcome (p values <0.01 for all comparisons). VAS scores of investigators and parents correlated significantly with PedsQL. Conclusions: In children with AIS, both PSOM and mRS combined with school type correlated significantly with quality of life and VAS scores of general functioning. The mRS combined with school type is easier to obtain than the PSOM, reflects function rather than deficits, includes an important measure of cognitive outcome, and corresponds better with the doctor’s impression of outcome.
Binding of CD40L to Mac-1's I-Domain Involves the EQLKKSKTL Motif and Mediates Leukocyte Recruitment and Atherosclerosis—But Does Not Affect Immunity and Thrombosis in Mice
Authors: Wolf Dennis , Hohmann Jan-David , Wiedemann Ansgar , Bledzka Kamila , Blankenbach Hermann , Marchini Timoteo , Gutte Katharina , Zeschky Katharina , Bassler Nicole , Hoppe Natalie , Rodriguez Alexandra Ortiz , Herr Nadine , Hilgendorf Ingo , Stachon Peter , Willecke Florian , Duerschmied Daniel , von zur Muhlen Constantin , Soloviev Dmitry A. , Zhang Li , Bode Christoph , Plow Edward F. , Libby Peter , Peter Karlheinz , Zirlik Andreas
Published: October 2011

Rationale:

CD40L figures prominently in chronic inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis. However, since CD40L potently regulates immune function and hemostasis by interaction with CD40 receptor and the platelet integrin GPIIb/IIIa, its global inhibition compromises host defense and generated thromboembolic complications in clinical trials. We recently reported that CD40L mediates atherogenesis independently of CD40 and proposed Mac-1 as an alternate receptor.

Objective:

Here, we molecularly characterized the CD40L-Mac-1 interaction and tested whether its selective inhibition by a small peptide modulates inflammation and atherogenesis in vivo.

Methods and Results:

CD40L concentration-dependently bound to Mac-1 I-domain in solid phase binding assays, and a high-affinity interaction was revealed by surface-plasmon-resonance analysis. We identified the motif EQLKKSKTL, an exposed loop between the α1 helix and the β-sheet B, on Mac-1 as binding site for CD40L. A linear peptide mimicking this sequence, M7, specifically inhibited the interaction of CD40L and Mac-1. A cyclisized version optimized for in vivo use, cM7, decreased peritoneal inflammation and inflammatory cell recruitment in vivo. Finally, LDLr
−/−
mice treated with intraperitoneal injections of cM7 developed smaller, less inflamed atherosclerotic lesions featuring characteristics of stability. However, cM7 did not interfere with CD40L-CD40 binding in vitro and CD40L-GPIIb/IIIa-mediated thrombus formation in vivo.

Conclusions:

We present the novel finding that CD40L binds to the EQLKKSKTL motif on Mac-1 mediating leukocyte recruitment and atherogenesis. Specific inhibition of CD40L-Mac-1 binding may represent an attractive anti-inflammatory treatment strategy for atherosclerosis and other inflammatory conditions, potentially avoiding the unwanted immunologic and thrombotic effects of global inhibition of CD40L.
A Novel Preclinical Strategy for Identifying Cardiotoxic Kinase Inhibitors and Mechanisms of Cardiotoxicity
Authors: Cheng Hui , Kari Gabor , Dicker Adam P. , Rodeck Ulrich , Koch Walter J. , Force Thomas
Published: October 2011

Rationale:

Despite intense interest in strategies to predict which kinase inhibitor (KI) cancer therapeutics may be associated with cardiotoxicity, current approaches are inadequate. Sorafenib is a KI of concern because it inhibits growth factor receptors and Raf-1/B-Raf, kinases that are upstream of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) and signal cardiomyocyte survival in the setting of stress.

Objectives:

To explore the potential use of zebrafish as a preclinical model to predict cardiotoxicity and to determine whether sorafenib has associated cardiotoxicity, and, if so, define the mechanisms.

Methods and Results:

We find that the zebrafish model is readily able to discriminate a KI with little or no cardiotoxicity (gefitinib) from one with demonstrated cardiotoxicity (sunitinib). Sorafenib, like sunitinib, leads to cardiomyocyte apoptosis, a reduction in total myocyte number per heart, contractile dysfunction, and ventricular dilatation in zebrafish. In cultured rat cardiomyocytes, sorafenib induces cell death. This can be rescued by adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of constitutively active MEK1, which restores ERK activity even in the presence of sorafenib. Whereas growth factor–induced activation of ERKs requires Raf, α-adrenergic agonist-induced activation of ERKs does not require it. Consequently, activation of α-adrenergic signaling markedly decreases sorafenib-induced cell death. Consistent with these in vitro data, inhibition of α-adrenergic signaling with the receptor antagonist prazosin worsens sorafenib-induced cardiomyopathy in zebrafish.

Conclusions:

Zebrafish may be a valuable preclinical tool to predict cardiotoxicity. The α-adrenergic signaling pathway is an important modulator of sorafenib cardiotoxicity in vitro and in vivo and appears to act through a here-to-fore unrecognized signaling pathway downstream of α-adrenergic activation that bypasses Raf to activate ERKs.
Minocycline-Induced Attenuation of Iron Overload and Brain Injury After Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Zhao Fan , Hua Ya , He Yangdong , Keep Richard F. , Xi Guohua
Published: October 2011

Background and Purpose—

Brain iron overload plays a detrimental role in brain injury after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). A recent study found that minocycline acts as an iron chelator and reduces iron-induced neuronal death in vitro. The present study investigated if minocycline reduces iron overload after ICH and iron-induced brain injury in vivo.

Methods—

This study was divided into 4 parts: (1) rats with different sizes of ICH were euthanized 3 days later for serum total iron and brain edema determination; (2) rats had an ICH treated with minocycline or vehicle. Serum iron, brain iron, and brain iron handling proteins were measured; (3) rats had an intracaudate injection of saline, iron, iron+minocycline, or iron+macrophage/microglia inhibitory factor and were used for brain edema and neuronal death measurements; and (4) rats had an intracaudate injection of iron and were treated with minocycline. The brains were used for edema measurement.

Results—

After ICH, serum total iron and brain nonheme iron increased and these changes were reduced by minocycline treatment. Minocycline also reduced ICH-induced upregulation of brain iron handling proteins and neuronal death. Intracaudate injection of iron caused brain edema, blood–brain barrier leakage, and brain cell death, all of which were significantly reduced by coinjection with minocycline.

Conclusions—

The current study found that minocycline reduces iron overload after ICH and iron-induced brain injury. It is also well known minocycline is an inhibitor of microglial activation. Minocycline may be very useful for patients with ICH because both iron accumulation and microglia activation contribute to brain damage after ICH.
Probabilistic Forecast Guidance for Severe Thunderstorms Based on the Identification of Extreme Phenomena in Convection-Allowing Model Forecasts
Authors: Sobash Ryan A. , Kain John S. , Bright David R. , Dean Andrew R. , Coniglio Michael C. , Weiss Steven J.
Published: October 2011

With the advent of convection-allowing NWP models (CAMs) comes the potential for new forms of forecast guidance. While CAMs lack the required resolution to simulate many severe phenomena associated with convection (e.g., large hail, downburst winds, and tornadoes), they can still provide unique guidance for the occurrence of these phenomena if “extreme” patterns of behavior in simulated storms are strongly correlated with observed severe phenomena. This concept is explored using output from a series of CAM forecasts generated on a daily basis during the spring of 2008. This output is mined for the presence of extreme values of updraft helicity (UH), a diagnostic field used to identify supercellular storms. Extreme values of the UH field are flagged as simulated “surrogate” severe weather reports and the spatial correspondence between these surrogate reports and actual observed severe reports is determined. In addition, probabilistic forecasts [surrogate severe probabilistic forecasts (SSPFs)] are created from each field’s simulated surrogate severe reports using a Gaussian smoother. The simulated surrogate reports are capable of reproducing the seasonal climatology observed within the field of actual reports. The SSPFs created from the surrogates are verified using ROC curves and reliability diagrams and the sensitivity of the verification metrics to the smoothing parameter in the Gaussian distribution is tested. The SSPFs produce reliable forecast probabilities with minimal calibration. These results demonstrate that a relatively straightforward postprocessing procedure, which focuses on the characteristics of explicitly predicted convective entities, can provide reliable severe weather forecast guidance. It is anticipated that this technique will be even more valuable when implemented within a convection-allowing ensemble forecasting system.
Examining Relationships and Effects in Gifted Education Research
Authors: Adelson Jill L.
Published: October 2011

The aim of this Methodological Brief to structural equation modeling (SEM) is to help readers become more aware of its uses and how to understand research using it. SEM provides many benefits over traditional multiple regression, including the ability to model multiple outcomes simultaneously and to account for measurement error. This Brief provides a general overview of the purposes of SEM and reviews how SEM can estimate models with both observed variables as well as their underlying constructs and how the adequacy of models is assessed in SEM. Finally, this Brief introduces path diagrams and latent variable models with an illustration of how to understand diagrams and standardized estimates.
Lessons from the 2004 Asian tsunami: Epidemiological and nosological debates in the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder in non-Western post-disaster communities
Authors: Rajkumar A. P. , Mohan T. S. P. , Tharyan P.
Published: October 2011

Background:

The nosological validity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains controversial in non-Western communities. After natural disasters, epidemiological studies often overlook these conceptual debates and assess post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) by short screening instruments. Such PTSS estimates are reported as inflated prevalence rates of PTSD in post-disaster settings.

Aims:

To discuss the prevalence and determinants of PTSS within the context of pertinent epidemiological and nosological debates.

Methods:

We assessed PTSS and grief symptoms of 643 survivors from five Indian villages struck by the Asian tsunami using the Impact of Events Scale – Revised and Complicated Grief Assessment Scale. We adopted a case control design and employed complex sample multiple logistic regression statistics to study the determinants of PTSS.

Results:

The prevalence of PTSS was 15.1% (95% CI 12.3%–17.9%). PTSS was significantly associated with traumatic grief, female gender, physical injury, death of children and financial losses, but not with functional disability ( p = .91).

Conclusions:

Although PTSS were common in this population, elevating them to a psychiatric construct of PTSD is questionable, when functional impairment and avoidance behaviours were absent. Grief reactions, socio-economic burden, and poor support systems contribute towards PTSS. We highlight the important issues regarding the nosological validity and epidemiology of PTSD in non-Western communities.
Gender Difference or Parallel Publics? The Dynamics of Defense Spending Opinions in the United States, 1965–2007
Authors: Eichenberg Richard C. , Stoll Richard J.
Published: October 2011

Gender is now recognized as an important dividing line in American political life, and scholars have accumulated evidence that national security issues are an important reason for gender differences in policy preferences. We therefore expect that the dynamics of support for defense spending among men and women will differ. In contrast, several scholars have shown that population subgroups exhibit a “parallel” dynamic in which the evolution of their preferences over time is very similar, despite differences in the average level of support. Unfortunately, there is little time series evidence on gendered reactions to policy, including defense spending, that would allow one to arbitrate between these competing perspectives. In this research note, we assemble a time series of support for defense spending among men and women and model the determinants of that support for the period 1967–2007. We find that women are on average less supportive of defense spending than are men. However, we also find that the over time variation of support for defense spending among men and women is very similar—each is conditioned principally by the past year’s change in defense spending and occasionally by war casualties and a trade-off between defense and civilian spending.
On robust controllability of uncertain non-linear jump systems with respect to the finite-time interval
Authors: He Shuping , Liu Fei
Published: October 2011

In this paper we study the robust control problems with respect to the finite-time interval of uncertain non-linear Markov jump systems. By means of Takagi–Sugeno fuzzy models, the overall closed-loop fuzzy dynamics are constructed through selected membership functions. By using the stochastic Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional approach, a sufficient condition is firstly established on the stochastic robust finite-time stabilization. Then, in terms of linear matrix inequalities techniques, the sufficient conditions on the existence of the stochastic finite-time controller are presented and proved. Finally, the design problem is formulated as an optimization one. The simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
The Dialectical Sense of Humour: Routine Joking in a Taylorized Factory
Authors: Korczynski Marek
Published: October 2011

Starting from the premise that context is central to understanding humour, the paper examines humour in three key contexts of the workplace – the labour process, control relations and peer relations. The paper argues that there have been important studies which have shown humour embedded in control relations and peer relations, but the way in which humour may be embedded in the labour process has not received the same sustained attention. The paper reports on a participant-observation ethnography in a Taylorized blinds factory in which humour embedded in the labour process was the central form of humour. Particularly important were forms of humour categorized as ‘routine humour’ and ‘routine absurdity’ in which workers played with the routine labour process. Overall, the humour in this factory primarily had resistive meanings, and contributed to an autonomous shopfloor culture which informed acts of informal collective resistance. At the same time, much of the humour lubricated the enactment of the labour process. The paper contributes to knowledge by drawing on Bergson to offer a theoretical framing for, and extending our understanding of, humour embedded in the labour process. Specifically, it suggests the importance of the dialectical sense of humour – humour which enacts the labour process, while having implicitly resistive meanings.
Tumour necrosis factor gene polymorphisms and migraine: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Schürks Markus , Rist Pamela M , Zee Robert YL , Chasman Daniel I , Kurth Tobias
Published: October 2011

Background: Data on the association between TNFα and TNFβ gene polymorphisms and migraine are conflicting.

Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published until January 2011. We used data from published papers and as provided after contact with the authors. We calculated study specific odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) assuming additive, dominant, and recessive genetic models as well as pooled effect estimates.

Results: Among the ten studies identified, the best evidence is available for the TNFα −308G>A and TNFβ 252A > G polymorphisms indicating no overall association with migraine. Subgroup analyses suggested that the A allele of the TNFα −308G > A variant more than doubles the risk for migraine among populations with a heterogeneous ethnic background, which was driven by associations for migraine without aura (additive model: pooled OR = 2.87, 95% CI 1.86–4.43). Further, the risk for migraine with aura was increased among Asian populations (additive model: pooled OR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.07–2.71). Both observed effects were stronger among females than males.

Conclusions: Our results indicate no overall association between TNFα and TNFβ gene variants and migraine. However, associations differed among specific populations. Our findings need to be treated with caution and further targeted research is warranted to evaluate population-specific effects including population stratification.
Comparison of All-Inside Meniscal Repair Devices With Matched Inside-Out Suture Repair
Authors: Rosso Claudio , Kovtun Konstantin , Dow William , McKenzie Brett , Nazarian Ara , DeAngelis Joseph P. , Ramappa Arun J.
Published: October 2011

Background: All-inside meniscal repairs are performed with increasing frequency because of the availability of newly developed devices. A comparison of their biomechanical characteristics may aid physicians in selecting a method of meniscal repair.

Hypothesis: All-inside meniscal repairs will be superior to their inside-out controls in response to cyclic loading and load-to-failure testing.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Sixty-six bucket-handle tears in matched porcine menisci were repaired using the Ultra FasT-Fix, Meniscal Cinch, Ultrabraid No. 0, and FiberWire 2-0 sutures. Initial displacement, cyclic loading (100, 300, and 500 cycles), and load-to-failure testing were performed. The displacement, response to cyclic loading, and mode of failure were recorded. The stiffness was calculated.

Results: The Meniscal Cinch demonstrated a significantly higher initial displacement than the other methods tested ( P = .04). No significant difference was found among the methods in response to cyclic loading. The inside-out FiberWire repair demonstrated the highest load to failure (120.8 ± 23.5 N) and was significantly higher than both the Meniscal Cinch (64.8 ± 24.1 N, P < .001) and the Ultra FasT-Fix (88.3 ± 14.3 N, P = .002). It was not significantly higher than the inside-out Ultrabraid suture repair (98.8 ± 29.2 N). The inside-out FiberWire repair had the highest stiffness (28.7 ± 7.8 N/mm). It was significantly higher than the Meniscal Cinch (18.0 ± 8.8 N/mm, P = .01). The most common mode of failure in all methods was suture failure.

Conclusion: An inside-out suture repair affords surgeons the best overall biomechanical characteristics of the devices tested (initial displacement, response to cyclic loading, and load to failure). For an all-inside repair, the Ultra FasT-Fix reproduces the characteristics of its matched inside-out suture repair more closely than the Meniscal Cinch.

Clinical Relevance: Inside-out sutures and all-inside devices have similar responses to cyclic loading.
Social Correlates of Bullying in Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Timmermanis Victoria , Wiener Judith
Published: October 2011

The present study examines the levels and social correlates of bullying in adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Sixty-four male and female participants (40 ADHD) and their parents and teachers complete standardized questionnaires. Compared to adolescents without ADHD, adolescents with ADHD are more likely to report experiencing victimization by peers and participating in bullying others. Among adolescents with ADHD, those who had experienced victimization by peers perceive lower levels of social support and have higher levels of parent-reported peer relations problems. Bullying others is not associated with perceptions of social support or parent-reported peer relations problems. Implications for future research and clinical assessment are discussed.
Thermoforming process simulation for the manufacture of deep-draw plastic food packaging
Authors: McCool R , Martin P J
Published: October 2011

The development of an effective and representative finite element-based simulation of the deep-draw plug-assisted thermoforming process is presented. It has been clearly demonstrated that the frictional and thermal effects of plug contact are of critical importance and appropriate relationships for these have been developed and included in the simulation. A constitutive material model based on the van der Waals strain energy function has been used to represent the deformation response of the high-impact polystyrene polymer sheet and the model parameters have been closely fitted to biaxial test data. The prototype simulation is stable and its output is generally in good agreement with experimental measurements. It is recognized that model accuracy could be improved further through additional experimental investigation of the process. The working simulation provides a powerful platform for in-depth analysis of the thermoforming process.
Linear fractional transformation gain-scheduling flight control preserving robust performance
Authors: Aouf N , Boulet B
Published: October 2011

In this article, a gain-scheduling flight controller design based on a blending/interpolating methodology and an optimal linear fractional transformation (LFT)-based control technique is proposed to achieve robust performances over a wide range of aircraft operating conditions. Representing the non-linear system dynamics into an uncertain LFT system form, our gain-scheduling strategy designs a limited number of robust linear controllers covering the whole range of operating conditions. Using these fixed controllers in a robust performance control set-up, we derive a blending/interpolating scheduling controller, which achieves the desired performance for the entire flight envelope. Our approach offers the benefit of facilitating controller design and provides proofs of robust stability and performance through an uncertain LFT robust performance formulation. In addition, tools analysing the robustness of the closed-loop gain-scheduling system are also provided. Non-linear simulations based on our proposed approach for a B1 flexible aircraft for a limited flight but reasonable flight envelope show very good performance results in both time and frequency domain responses.
Three-dimensional design and numerical simulation of magnetohydrodynamic controlled hypersonic inlets
Authors: Lu H , Cao D
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this study is to perform numerical simulation for the design and optimization of three-dimensional magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) controlled hypersonic inlets. An airframe/propulsion integrated module was first established for a waverider-based hypersonic vehicle at design Mach number of 6. Using this generic configuration, an MHD-based technique for large-scale inlet flow control is studied at the off-designed Mach value of 8.5. The results indicate that the inlet mass flowrate can act as an optimization criterion. Using a proper value of mass flowrate, an MHD generator possessing reasonable design parameters can effectively restore the flow field shock structure, i.e. shock-on-lip condition and improves the flow field characteristics at the combustor entrance at higher Mach number than the design value. The results further reveal that the MHD effect on the flow with higher load factor helps to extract more electric power from the external MHD generator and also helps in improving the performance of the combustor entrance.
Effect of interlayer slip on the damping of layered and welded aluminium beams
Authors: Singh B , Nanda B K
Published: October 2011

Damping is a complex phenomenon, which acts in the form of absorption and dissipation of energy in the vibrating systems. Joints are inherently present in all most all assembled structures that contribute significantly to the slip damping. The joints fabricated by welding contribute to the damping mechanism in assembled structures. In this study, the relationship between the dynamic slip and damping capacity has been theoretically investigated considering the higher modes of vibration of the welded aluminium cantilever beams. The damping ratios of these structures are determined using forced vibration test method. It has been confirmed through the comparison of theoretical and experimental results that the damping capacity of a jointed cantilever beams can be well estimated using the proposed method.
Automated conflict resolution, arrival management, and weather avoidance for air traffic management
Authors: Erzberger H , Lauderdale T A , Chu Y-C
Published: October 2011

This article describes a unified solution to three types of separation-assurance problems that occur in en-route airspace: separation conflicts, arrival sequencing, and weather-cell avoidance. Algorithms for solving these problems play a key role in the design of future air traffic management systems such as the US's NextGen. Because these problems can arise simultaneously in any combination, it is necessary to develop integrated algorithms for solving them. A unified and comprehensive solution to these problems provides the foundation for a future air traffic management system that requires a high level of automation in separation assurance. This article describes the three algorithms developed for solving each problem and then shows how they are used sequentially to solve any combination of these problems. The first set of algorithms resolves loss-of-separation conflicts. It generates multiple resolutions for each conflict and then selects the one giving the least delay. Two new algorithms, one for sequencing and merging of arrival traffic, referred to as the arrival manager, and the other for weather-cell avoidance are presented. Because these three problems constitute a substantial fraction of the workload of en-route controllers, integrated algorithms to solve them is a basic requirement for automated separation assurance. This article also reviews the advanced airspace concept, a proposed design for a ground-based system that postulates redundant systems for automated separation assurance in order to achieve both high levels of safety and airspace capacity. It is proposed that automated separation assurance be introduced operationally in several steps, each step reducing controller workload further while increasing airspace capacity. A fast time simulation was used to determine performance statistics of the algorithm at up to 3× current traffic levels.
Management of Symptomatic Ascites in Hospice Patients With Paracentesis
Authors: Zama Ivan N. , Edgar Millicent
Published: October 2011

Refractory ascites causes significant distress to patients and can be managed in various ways. In hospice patients where the goal of care is to preserve comfort and foster better quality of life, diuretics should be tried first; however, in resistant cases, home-based paracentesis should be entertained. Home-based paracentesis is a safe and simple procedure that can be done blindly, if done under standard precautions there is minimal associated risk of bleeding, infection or perforation and no need for pre or post-laboratory testing or the correction of high international normalization ratio or thrombocytopenia. Home-based paracentesis is cost effective, provides immediate symptomatic relief, good patient and caregiver satisfaction and obviates the associated distress to the patient and family of transporting the patient for either outpatient or inpatient paracentesis.
Score Reliability and Validity of the Student Risk Screening Scale
Authors: Ennis Robin Parks , Lane Kathleen Lynne , Oakes Wendy Peia
Published: October 2011

In this article we examine the psychometric properties of the Student Risk Screening Scale (SRSS) for use in diverse, urban elementary schools. Results of two studies suggest strong internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Both studies also suggest strong convergent validity with other psychometrically sound, systematic screeners including the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (Study 1) and the Systematic Screening for Behavior Disorders (Study 2). In addition, both studies suggest initial SRSS scores predict (a) suspension rates for students in kindergarten through fourth grades and (b) performance on state achievement tests for third grade students. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
Governing “Democratic” Equality
Authors: Baum Bruce
Published: October 2011

This article examines tensions in the egalitarianism of J. S. Mill and R. H. Tawney alongside national education systems to develop a critical theory of democratic equality. Mill and Tawney advanced strong conceptions of democratic equality but with meritocratic elements that foreshadowed liberal governmental practices that have reconciled substantial inequalities in modern capitalist democracies with official commitments to the moral equality of persons. These practices include IQ testing, educational tracking, Taylorism, and the deployment by social scientists of the “underclass” category. While Mill and Tawney partly prefigured liberal governmentality, they also offered the basis for a compelling democratic egalitarian response.
Homeless Youth Managing Relationships
Authors: Farrugia David
Published: October 2011

This article details the ways in which young people experiencing homelessness are managing their relationships. Beck’s individualization thesis is used to relate young people’s relationships to social structures and to discourses of homelessness, addressing a tendency in the literature to focus on micro social encounters at the expense of structural processes. Data from qualitative interviews with 20 young people experiencing homelessness in Melbourne, Australia, are analyzed to describe the process of reflexive intersubjectivity as part of the active negotiation of structural inequality. This approach provides insight into the diversity of strat-egies used by young people experiencing homelessness. Three patterns of reflexive intersubjectivity are described: choosing independence, making family, and the process of making home. These are analyzed in terms of the way they reflect the struc-tural and discursive environment of youth homelessness. The article concludes with theoretical reflections on the relationship between homelessness, intersubjectivity and inequality.
Disaggregating Student Resistances
Authors: Lanas Maija , Corbett Michael
Published: October 2011

In this article, we look into student agency which challenges the existing structures and find that students assume such agency for a purpose: there is something they pursue instead of just resisting something. We raise some critical questions about the concept of resistance in educational thought based upon findings from two dif-ferent qualitative research projects: one in Arctic Finland; and the other in coastal Atlantic Canada. In our research contexts, we have found that students pursue re-storation as a means of self-regulation, relevant knowledge and trust in their own terms, and also pursue dialogue in which they are considered to be relevant actors. We conclude that the concept of resistance should only be used for intentional resistance, and that when there is such resistance, it should be considered to be a sign of seriously dysfunctional school environment which we conclude can best be addressed by place-sensitive, dialogical approaches to pedagogy and curriculum.
Prevention and treatment of MS: studying the effects of vitamin D
Authors: Munger Kassandra L , Ascherio Alberto
Published: October 2011

Observational studies suggest that adequate vitamin D nutrition may reduce the risk of MS and affect the course of the disease. Inherent limitations in these studies, however, preclude a causal interpretation. Randomized controlled clinical trials are the next step to addressing whether vitamin D prevents MS or can favorably affect the course and progression of MS. Here we briefly review the current literature on vitamin D and MS, both as a risk factor and potential treatment for MS with a focus on the issues and challenges in designing prevention and treatment clinical trials.
A study of hotel frequent-guest programs: Benefits and costs
Authors: Shanshan Ni , Wilco Chan , Eric Shum
Published: October 2011

Currently, frequent-guest programs have been widespread among most of the major hotel groups around the world. However, despite the fact that hotels annually spend millions of dollars to deliver free membership benefits as a means to acquire and retain hotel guests, a number of criticisms persist on too much sameness within these programs. Since it is expensive to maintain frequent-guest programs, the benefits should be carefully designed in order to control their relative costs. Thus, this study draws on in-depth interviews of 18 hotel professionals to investigate the benefit and cost structures of six mainstream frequent-guest programs worldwide. The key elements of membership benefits were structurally compared and developed into a benefit taxonomy with three levels: core benefits, partially common benefits, and individual benefits. The dichotomous analysis on program costs has found that major tangible and intangible costs exist at the property level. Findings have likewise revealed the current performance monitoring mechanisms and administrative logistics of frequent-guest programs, as well as their operational implications to hotel management.