bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Les débats sur les fondements de la perspective linéaire de Piero della Francesca à Egnatio Danti: un cas de mathématisation à rebours
Authors: Raynaud Dominique
Published: August 2010

In the Quattrocento and Cinquecento the rise of linear perspective caused many polemics which opposed the supporters of an artificial geometrisation of sight to those who were praising the qualities of the drawing according to nature, or were invoking some arguments on a physiological basis. These debates can be grouped according to the four alternatives that form their central concerns: restricted vs. broad field of vision; ocular immobility vs. mobility; curvilinear vs. planar picture; monocular vs. binocular vision. By retaining the first terms of these four alternatives, the history of perspective eliminated many heterodox constructions. From the viewpoint of mathematisation the interest of these debates is that they succeeded, rather than preceded, the adoption of a perspective system defined by the intersection of the visual pyramid. Thus the history of linear perspective constitutes a genuine case of a posteriori justification, or, put differently, it gives us a case of upside down mathematisation.
Mathématiser l’anatomie: la myologie de Stensen (1667)
Authors: Andrault Raphaële
Published: August 2010

In his Elementorum Myologiae Specimen, Steno geometrizes “the new fabric of muscles” and their movement of contraction, so as to refute the main contemporary hypothesis about the functioning of the muscles. This physiological refutation relies on an abstract representation of the muscular fibre as a parallelepiped of flesh transversally linked to the tendons. Those two features have been comprehensively studied. But the method used by Steno, as well as the way he has chosen to present his physiological results, have so far been neglected. Yet, Steno’s work follows a true synthetic order, which he conceives as a tool to separate uncertain anatomical “elements” from the certain ones. We will show that the true understanding of this “more geometrico” order is the only way to avoid frequent misconceptions of the scientific aim pursued by Steno, which is neither to give a mathematical explanation of the functioning of the muscles, nor to reduce the muscles to some mathematical shapes.
Pascal versus Descartes on Solution of Geometrical Problems and the Sluse-Pascal Correspondence
Authors: Maronne Sébastien
Published: August 2010

In this article, I examine the respective role of equations and construction in geometrical problem solving according to Descartes and Pascal. I argue that whereas Descartes claims that an equation provides a solution to a geometrical problem even if it leads to an entangled construction, Pascal dismisses this claim and gives priority to construction. To this end, I deal with prototypical problems like Apollonius’ problem of the three cir cles or Pappus’ problem, both of which were tackled by Descartes and Pascal in their work or correspondence. I also pay close attention to the cor respondence between Pascal and Sluse of October-December 1657 and compare Sluse’s conception of algebraic analysis in geometrical problem solving with Descartes’. These let ters, not thoroughly studied until now, supply an interesting discussion about what it is to provide a solution to a geomet rical problem. Finally, I consider Descartes’ algebraization of geometry as a kind of mathematization.
Status Quo Camouflaged: Economic and Social Transformation of Egypt and Jordan
Authors: Saif Ibrahim , Choucair Farah
Published: August 2010

Examining reforms in Egypt and Jordan, this article calls for rethinking the relationship between economic reform and governance. Conventional analyses of economic and governance reforms overlook the complex relationships between social, political and economic factors within a country that affect reform success. This is quite evident by contrasting the extensive literature praising the "successful" reform progress achieved by countries such as Jordan and Egypt with the failure to achieve significant institutional and legislative reforms that would lead to more effective governance, as well as persistent inequality. Both countries have achieved high GDP growth over the last decade; however, no new social or political forces have been drawn into a new social contract. Instead of reforms being transformative, a complex interplay between political and economic agents has sustained a status quo based on weak governance institutions. The paper suggests that this is the outcome of the international community's unwillingness to press real reforms, as well as cautious domestic elites. Consequently they maintain a Pareto Efficient balance, proclaiming reform while seeking to maintain political stability. The article aims not merely to provide evidence of a contradictory scenario of unsuccessful reforms, but rather to advocate for a more careful reading into governance indicators and deeper understanding of the context for governance reform in the Middle East.
Religion, Religiosity and the Place of Islam in Political Life: Insights from the Arab Barometer Surveys
Authors: Tessler Mark
Published: August 2010

This paper explores the nature and determinants of attitudes toward the political role of Islam held by ordinary citizens in the Arab world. Based on results from nationally representative surveys carried out in seven Arab states during 2006-2007, it engages the pervasive debate about Islam and democracy—showing that the significant divide is not between those who favor democracy and those who favor Islam, but between those who favor secular democracy and those who favor a political system that is both democratic and Islamic in some meaningful way. Furthermore, this analysis finds that the civic values and predispositions of individuals who favor a political role for Islam are overwhelmingly similar to those of individuals who favor a separation of religion and politics. The paper also finds little consistency in the factors that incline individuals towards support for political Islam in the different countries surveyed. Most importantly, this analysis concludes that there is little or no incompatibility between Islam and democracy in the public mind and that a proper understanding of the reasons and ways that Muslim Arab publics think about governance and the political role of Islam is possible only if attention is paid to the particular political and societal contexts within which attitudes are formed.
States and Social Rights: Women's Economic Citizenship in the Maghreb
Authors: Moghadam Valentine
Published: August 2010

How has economic reform transformed states, societies, and state-society relations in the countries of the Maghreb (North Africa)? With a focus on Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, the paper identifies new actors, opportunities, and challenges observed in the Maghreb. Specifically, it examines how—in an era of globalization characterized by neoliberal economic policy but also the worldwide diffusion of norms of women's rights—state strategies for integration into the global economy have been affecting women's economic participation and social rights and have, in turn, led to women's collective action for legal equality and social-economic rights. As such, state-society relations are being renegotiated in terms of both new social and new gender contracts. In examining recent reforms of family codes and labor laws, the paper elucidates the contradictory effects of globalization on women and the complicated relations between states and feminist organizations in the region. The argument is informed conceptually by world-systems theory, feminist political economy, theories of citizenship, and the social movements literature.
3D body scan analysis of dimensional change in lower body measurements for active body positions
Authors: Choi Sunyoon , Ashdown Susan P
Published: August 2010

In this study we use 3D scans to measure and analyze lower body measurement change for various active body positions, comparing a standing posture, a 120° knee bend posture, a one pace stepping posture, and a sitting posture with 90° knee bend. Small hemispherical markers identified body landmarks for reliable measurement of the 3D scans. Study participants were 25 females, aged 18 to 24, with hip measurements from 93 cm to 103 cm. We compared the measurements from each posture to a standing posture with feet apart and arms abducted (a modified anthropometric stance commonly used for body scanning). We also tested the reliability of the 3D measurements on active postures. Two types of measurements were compared, 3D scan measurements using virtual tools on the computer screen and traditional manual anthropometric measurements. No significant differences between the two types of measurements were found except for knee height. Selected scan measurements were also repeated three times and found to be reliable. A comparison of scan measurements in the active postures showed significant changes from the standard standing scan posture. The sitting posture showed the most change in measurements. Back center leg length, front center leg length, front waist to hip line depth, front crotch length, back crotch length, knee girth, and hip girth were the items that exhibited the most change in the sitting posture. The measurement of 3D scans provided a reliable and convenient method for comparative measurements between active body positions, which would be impractical to measure using standard anthropometric methods.
Is It Better Not to Talk? Group Polarization, Extended Contact, and Perspective Taking in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Paluck Elizabeth Levy
Published: August 2010

Mass media are often used to generate discussion for the purpose of conflict reduction. A yearlong field experiment in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) tested the impact of one such media program, a talk show designed to promote listener discussion about intergroup conflict and cooperation. A stratified random half of all nonoverlapping broadcast regions in eastern DRC aired the talk show, which encouraged listeners to consider tolerant opinions and outgroup perspectives, and promoted extended intergroup contact using a related soap opera. The other regions aired the soap opera only. Compared to individuals exposed to the soap opera only, talk show listeners discussed more but were more intolerant, more mindful of grievances, and less likely to aid disliked community members. These results point to some of the limits of discussion and suggest further research on ideas connecting theoretical recommendations for discussion and conflict reduction.
Residential Property Tax Abatements and Rebuilding in Cleveland, Ohio
Authors: Rosentraub Mark S. , Mikelbank Brian , Post Charlie
Published: August 2010

In the late 1980s the city of Cleveland began offering residential property tax abatements in an effort to (1) reduce blight, (2) attract home owners, and (3) build upon the momentum established by the construction of several downtown attractions. When Cleveland’s legislation authorizing part of the abatement program was to be renewed in 2005, a new mayor asked for an assessment of the program’s status and its fiscal effects. Utilizing property tax and assessment files and a survey of individuals who had purchased a home that received the property tax abatement, this study finds that Cleveland’s investment through forgone property taxes will likely result in overall fiscal gains for the city. Despite this success, property tax abatements, even coupled with the building of an impressive set of cultural amenities, have yet to reverse the demographic and economic trends that have plagued Cleveland for more than fifty years.
A Bridge Too Far? Maryland’s BRACStat as a Regional Network Governance and Performance Management Tool
Authors: Gibson Ed , Julnes Patria de Lancer
Published: August 2010

The challenge of governing an intergovernmental network and managing its performance is examined using the example of the state of Maryland’s preparations in the wake of base realignment and closure (BRAC) decisions. BRACStat is patterned after other data modes currently in use in urban areas but that are not used in environments lacking strong executive control. As such, BRACStat serves as an experiment in managing actions in intergovernmental settings in which all governments can affect the decisions made and actions taken. This essay describes the use of BRACStat and describes how it may be applied in managing in other intergovernmental settings.
A Qualitative Exploration of Young Women’s Attitudes towards the Thin Ideal
Authors: Ahern Amy L. , Bennett Kate M. , Kelly Michelle , Hetherington Marion M.
Published: August 2010

The thin ideal has been identified as playing a central role in female body dissatisfaction. However, research into idealization of thinness in young women tends to focus on quantitative measures that can mask the complexity of attitudes and experiences. This article describes a series of focus groups with 41 females aged 16—26 and explores the multifaceted relationship young women have with the thin ideal. Thematic qualitative analysis revealed differences between individuals in the construct of the thin ideal and explored the conflict and ambivalence experienced by young women who are confronted by these ideals on a daily basis.
Are low back pain and low physical capacity risk indicators for dropout among recently qualified eldercare workers? A follow-up study
Authors: Faber Anne , Giver Hanne , Strøyer Jesper , Hannerz Harald
Published: August 2010

Background: A high job turnover and dropout among eldercare workers has led to a significant shortage of qualified manpower in the Danish eldercare sector. Objectives: The predictive effect of some non-work-related causes for leaving the eldercare sector 2 years after qualification, physical capacity, duration, and severity of previous low back pain, was investigated. Design and setting: A 2-year prospective cohort study of all the Danish eldercare workers, who finished their education during 2004 (n = 6347). Questionnaire data from 2004 were followed up by register data on attachment to labour market, educational status, and association to trade from Statistics Denmark in 2006. Methods: Data on physical capacity, duration, and severity of low back pain the last 12 months among the female participants were analysed by multinomial logistic regression to estimate odds-ratios for being either in the eldercare sector, in other health- and welfare sectors, in all other sectors, under education, or outside labour market, 2 years after qualification. Results: Disability due to and duration of low back pain were significant predictors for dropout from the eldercare sector 2 years after qualification. Low physical capacity was not. Data on duration of low back pain suggest a trend towards a dose—response relationship: The longer the duration of low back pain, the higher odds for dropout. Conclusions: Low back pain and disability due to low back pain during the last year of education were independent predictors for dropout from the eldercare sector 2 years after qualification. However, low self-rated physical capacity did not predict job dropout or turnover.
Catheter associated urinary tract infection within care of the elderly facilities: results from a Scottish pilot study
Authors: Mullings Abigail , Murdoch Fiona , Reilly Jacqui
Published: August 2010

Following a review of the current methodology for catheter associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI) surveillance in Scotland a protocol was developed by Health Protection Scotland incorporating infection definitions based on clinical signs and symptoms rather than microbiology criteria. These definitions are recommended by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control for use in care of the elderly facilities as they hope to reduce the overestimation of urinary tract infections by excluding asymptomatic bacteriuria.

In 2009, a pilot study of the protocol was carried out in volunteer care of the elderly facilities across Scotland. A total of 659 patients admitted to the care of the elderly facilities participated in CAUTI surveillance in six pilot hospitals and a total of 122 catheters were inserted. During the study period a total of 19 urinary tract infections were identified of which 15 met the criteria for CAUTI.

The CAUTI surveillance protocol and data definitions appeared to be robust. The study was therefore able to provide valuable data about catheter use and CAUTI incidence rates.

The surveillance protocol and collection tool can be easily adapted for use in care home settings thus providing a valuable surveillance tool for these resident populations.
The Mini-Wright Peak Flow Meter
Authors: Zimmermann Nina A.
Published: August 2010

Peak flow meters are portable devices used for measuring peak expiratory flow and monitoring asthma symptoms. The Mini-Wright Peak Flow Meter, first developed in the 1950s, is widely accepted because of its accuracy, affordability, and portability.
Allogeneic virus-specific T cells with HLA alloreactivity do not produce GVHD in human subjects
Authors: Melenhorst J. Joseph , Leen Ann M. , Bollard Catherine M. , Quigley Máire F. , Price David A. , Rooney Cliona M. , Brenner Malcolm K. , Barrett A. John , Heslop Helen E.
Published: August 2010

Adoptive transfer of viral antigen-specific memory T cells can reconstitute antiviral immunity, but in a recent report a majority of virus-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) lines showed in vitro cross-reactivity against allo-human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules as measured by interferon-γ secretion. We therefore reviewed our clinical experience with adoptive transfer of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation donor-derived virus-specific CTLs in 153 recipients, including 73 instances where there was an HLA mismatch. There was no de novo acute graft-versus-host disease after infusion, and incidence of graft-versus-host disease reactivation was low and not significantly different in recipients of matched or mismatched CTL. However, we found that virus-specific T cell lines recognized up to 10% of a panel of 44 HLA disparate targets, indicating that virus-specific T cells can have cross-reactivity with HLA-mismatched targets in vitro. These data indicate that the adoptive transfer of partially HLA-mismatched virus-specific CTL is safe despite in vitro recognition of recipient HLA molecules.
Matrix metalloproteinase-3 promoter polymorphisms but not dupA-H. pylori correlate to duodenal ulcers in H. pylori-infected females
Authors: Yeh Yi-Chun , Cheng Hsiu-Chi , Chang Wei-Lun , Yang Hsiao-Bai , Sheu Bor-Shyang
Published: August 2010

Background

This study investigated if the H. pylori dupA genotype and certain host single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs), including MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, might correlate with ulcer risk of H. pylori- infected Taiwanese patients.

Results

Of the 549 H. pylori- infected patients enrolled, 470 patients (265 with gastritis, 118 with duodenal ulcer, and 87 with gastric ulcer) received SNPs analysis of MMP-3-1612 6A > 5A, MMP-7-181 A > G, MMP-9exon 6 A > G, TIMP-1372 T > C and TIMP-2-418 G > C by PCR-RFLP. The 181 collected H. pylori isolates were detected for the dupA genotype by PCR. The rates of dupA-positive H. pylori infection were similar among patients with duodenal ulcer (22.8%), gastric ulcer (20.0%), and gastritis (25.5%) (p > 0.05). Males had higher rates of duodenal ulcer and gastric ulcer than females (p < 0.01). Of H. pylori-infected patients, the MMP-3 6A6A genotype were more common in patients with duodenal ulcers than in those with gastritis (87.7% vs. 74.9%, p < 0.05) in females. This genotype had a 2.4-fold (95% CI: 1.02-5.66) increased risk of duodenal ulcer, compared to those with the 5A carrier. Combining the MMP-3/TIMP-1 genotype as 6A6A/CC, the risk of duodenal ulcer increased up to 3.6 fold (p < 0.05) in H. pylori- infected females.

Conclusions

The MMP-3 promoter polymorphism, but not the dupA-status, may correlate with susceptibility to duodenal ulcer after H. pylori infection in Taiwanese females.
Endotoxin tolerance and cross-tolerance in mast cells involves TLR4, TLR2 and FcεR1 interactions and SOCS expression: perspectives on immunomodulation in infectious and allergic diseases
Authors: Saturnino Saulo F , Prado Roberta O , Cunha-Melo José R , Andrade Marcus V
Published: August 2010

Background

The study of the endotoxin tolerance phenomenon in light of the recently defined roles of mast cells and toll-like receptors as essential components of the innate immune response and as orchestrators of acquired immunity may reveal potentially useful mechanisms of immunomodulation of infectious and allergic inflammatory responses, such as sepsis or asthma. Here we evaluated the phenomenon of direct tolerance of endotoxins, as well as the induction of cross-tolerance and synergism by stimulation with toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2) and FcεR1 agonists, in murine mast cells prestimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, we evaluated some stimulatory and inhibitory signaling molecules potentially involved in these phenomena.

Methods

MC/9 cells and primary bone marrow-derived mast cells obtained from C57BL/6 and TLR4-/- knock-out mice were sensitized to DNP-HSA (antigen) by incubation with DNP-IgE and were prestimulated with LPS for 18 hr prior to stimulation. Cultures were stimulated with LPS or Pam3Cys-Ser-(Lys)4 3HCl (P3C), a TLR2 agonist, individually or in combination with antigen. The production of IL-6 and TNFα, the phosphorylation of NFκB and p38 MAPK, and the expression of TLR4 and SOCS-1 and -3 were analyzed.

Results

We found that production of TNFα and IL-6 in murine mast cells that have been pretreated with LPS and challenged with TLR4 (LPS) or -2 (P3C) agonists was reduced, phenomena described as endotoxin tolerance (LPS) and cross-tolerance (P3C), respectively. The expression of TLR4 was not affected by LPS pretreatment. Our results show that the FcεR1 agonist DNP-HSA (antigen) interacts synergistically with LPS or P3C to markedly enhance production of cytokines (TNFα and IL-6). This synergistic effect with LPS and P3C was also attenuated by LPS pretreatment and was mediated by TLR4. These results may be attributed to the reduction in phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), p38, and the transcription factor NFκB, as well as to an increase in the expression of the suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS)-1 and -3 proteins in LPS-pretreated mast cells.

Conclusions

These findings can be explored with respect to the modulation of inflammatory responses associated with infectious and allergic processes in future studies.
Comparative cost assessment of the Kato-Katz and FLOTAC techniques for soil-transmitted helminth diagnosis in epidemiological surveys
Authors: Speich Benjamin , Knopp Stefanie , Mohammed Khalfan A , Khamis I Simba , Rinaldi Laura , Cringoli Giuseppe , Rollinson David , Utzinger Jürg
Published: August 2010

Background

The Kato-Katz technique is widely used for the diagnosis of soil-transmitted helminthiasis in epidemiological surveys and is believed to be an inexpensive method. The FLOTAC technique shows a higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of light-intensity soil-transmitted helminth infections but is reported to be more complex and expensive. We assessed the costs related to the collection, processing and microscopic examination of stool samples using the Kato-Katz and FLOTAC techniques in an epidemiological survey carried out in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Methods

We measured the time for the collection of a single stool specimen in the field, transfer to a laboratory, preparation and microscopic examination using standard protocols for the Kato-Katz and FLOTAC techniques. Salaries of health workers, life expectancy and asset costs of materials, and infrastructure costs were determined. The average cost for a single or duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears and the FLOTAC dual or double technique were calculated.

Results

The average time needed to collect a stool specimen and perform a single or duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears or the FLOTAC dual or double technique was 20 min and 34 sec (20:34 min), 27:21 min, 28:14 min and 36:44 min, respectively. The total costs for a single and duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears were US$ 1.73 and US$ 2.06, respectively, and for the FLOTAC double and dual technique US$ 2.35 and US$ 2.83, respectively. Salaries impacted most on the total costs of either method.

Conclusions

The time and cost for soil-transmitted helminth diagnosis using either the Kato-Katz or FLOTAC method in epidemiological surveys are considerable. Our results can help to guide healthcare decision makers and scientists in budget planning and funding for epidemiological surveys, anthelminthic drug efficacy trials and monitoring of control interventions.
B cell receptor triggering sensitizes human B cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis
Authors: Guerreiro-Cacais Andre Ortlieb , Levitskaya Jelena , Levitsky Victor
Published: August 2010

BCR-triggering shown as the first known B-cell-specific signal enhancing cellular sensitivity to TRAIL.

TRAIL is known to cause death in tumor cells, but physiological regulation of its activity remains poorly characterized. We demonstrate that BCR triggering sensitizes transformed centroblast-like BL cells and peripheral blood memory B cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. The sensitization correlated with surface down-regulation and intracellular retention of TRAIL-R4, along with changes in the expression of several Bcl-2 protein family members. Although enhancing FAS-mediated cell death, CD40 activation protected B cells from TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Combination of Ig cross-linking with CD40 ligation did not prevent TRAIL-R4 down-regulation but induced changes in the mitochondria-regulated pathway of apoptosis that are known to be associated with resistance to TRAIL. Human CD5+ B cells, presumably stimulated by reactivity to self without immunological help, exhibited very high ex vivo sensitivity to TRAIL. Our results define the first B-lymphocyte-specific physiological signal that increases cellular sensitivity to TRAIL. This may be important for our understanding of TRAIL involvement in the control of B cell responses and aid in designing TRAIL-based therapies for B cell lymphomas.
Whole-body vibration influences on sound localization in the median plane
Authors: Tajadura-Jiménez A , Väljamäe A , Kitagawa N , Ho H-N
Published: August 2010

The present study investigates human multisensory perception of sound and vibration, highlighting its potential impact in the design of novel user interfaces, including those used in the automobile industry. Specifically, the present study investigates whether front—back sound localization could be altered by concurrent whole-body vibration. Previous research has shown that, when auditory and tactile stimuli are presented synchronously but from different positions, the perceived location of the auditory event is mislocalized to the location of the tactile stimulus. Here, sounds were presented at the front or the back of participants, in isolation, or together with vibrations. Participants made a three-alternative forced choice regarding their perceived location of the sounds. Results indicate that front—back sound localization was affected by the presence of concurrent vibrations, which biased the localization of front sounds towards the participants' rear space. Since the perceived location of events modulates the perceivers' understanding and involvement in these events, the possibility of manipulating the location of sound events using vibrations has a potential for the design of multisensory interfaces such as those included in automotive applications, where it is strongly needed to capture the attention of drivers, to provide navigational information, and to reduce sensory load.
Terminal Guidance of Autonomous Parafoils in High Wind-To-Airspeed Ratios
Authors: Slegers N , Yakimenko O A
Published: August 2010

Autonomous precision placement of parafoils is challenging because of their limited control authority and sensitivity to winds. In particular, when wind speed is near the airspeed, guidance is further complicated by the parafoils inability to penetrate the wind. This article speci-fically addresses the terminal phase and develops an approach for generating optimal trajectories in real-time based on the inverse dynamics in the virtual domain. The method results in efficient solution of a two-point boundary-value problem using only a single optimization parameter allowing the trajectory to be generated at a high rate, mitigating effects of the unknown winds. It is shown through simulation and experimental results that the proposed algorithm works well even in strong winds and is robust to sensor errors and wind uncertainty.
Automated Design Optimization of a U-Shaped Diffuser
Authors: Cefarin M , Poloni C , Knight D
Published: August 2010

An automatic computational optimization of a U-shaped diffuser with a 180° turn is performed with the objective of reducing the flow distortion at the outflow. Both laminar and turbulent flow conditions are examined using uniform velocity and fully developed inflow conditions. The design variables are the semimajor and semiminor axes of the diffuser cross-section at the midpoint of the 180° turn. The optimal designs are compared with the baseline design which used a circular cross-section throughout. The optimal designs show uniform improvement (reduction) in distortion at the exit by reshaping of the cross-section at the midpoint of the 180° turn. The principal characteristic of all optimal designs is an over-expansion of the flow (i.e. the cross-sectional area at the midpoint of the 180° turn is greater than the cross-sectional area at the exit).
Strength Analysis Methods for High Stress Gradient Parts in Composite Structures Ensuring Design Office Requirements
Authors: Laurin F , Carrère N , Maire J-F
Published: August 2010

Composite structures can be considerably weakened by the introduction of geometrical singularities such as holes or notches, and the strength analysis of these composite parts is thus a major aspect in the design of aeronautical structures. This article proposes to evaluate the maturity of different strength analysis methods dedicated to the prediction of the final failure of open-hole plates. To evaluate the predictive capabilities of the studied failure approaches, tensile tests have been performed on multi-perforated laminated plates with different configurations of perforation, stacking sequences, and two different carbon/epoxy materials. Three different fast computational methods, used in post-treatment of finite-element simulations, are studied: the classical point stress method, the fracture characteristic volume method, and the critical damage area method. Their predictions are compared with the available test results on multi-perforated plates. The limitations of the point stress method are highlighted and the advantages of the two other alternative strength methods are discussed.
Amelioration of the tribological behaviour of carbon/Ti–6Al–4V and graphite/Ti–6Al–4V couples by plasma nitriding of the titanium alloy
Authors: Sylvestre M , Zaidi H , Rivière J P , Eyidi D , Doyen F
Published: August 2010

This article reports on the influence of nitriding treatment of titanium alloy on the tribological behaviour of amorphous carbon or graphite/Ti–6Al–4V couples. This contact was investigated in pin-on-disc geometry in an ambient atmosphere. The pins were made of amorphous carbon or graphite and the discs were made of Ti–6Al–4V, nitrided or not.

The treatment of nitriding for this study was an N2–H2 plasma nitriding at a low temperature (700 °C) for 12 h. In these conditions, the top surface hardness was improved by a factor of 3.

In this study, the mechanism of transfer and wear of carbon against Ti–6Al–4V, nitrided or not, has been studied with a scanning electron microscope, an optical microscope, etc.

The analyses show that the nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V improves the tribological behaviour of the couples investigated. In fact, with the disc made of Ti–6Al–4V, the wear of carbon is very high and the disc is worn down at the end of the test. In contrast, after nitriding of the disc, the wear of carbon decreases, and there is a carbon film transfer on the disc. Moreover, with the nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V, the friction coefficient is stabilized, whereas without the nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V, the curve of the friction coefficient is marked by a very important increase during a short time. With the pin in graphite, the nitriding decreases the friction and increases the adhesion on the disc.

Furthermore, the tests have shown that the contact temperature increases with the nitriding of Ti–6Al–4V.
Dynamic modelling and verification of a flexible clustered launch vehicle
Authors: Jafari A A , Khoshnood A M , Roshanian J
Published: August 2010

Conceptual design of aerospace devices with low weight and high performance has currently been the aim of many researches and this has led to appearance of the flexibility in structures of these devices. These flexible behaviours have considerable effects on the flight dynamic and this problem in launch vehicles with cluster bodies is more important. Nonetheless, in the previous works, this aerospace device is only modelled as a single flexible body which is not enough for complete vibrational analysis. Hence, in this article, a non-linear dynamic model of a flexible clustered launch vehicle with one central core and two symmetrical clusters is extracted in the vector matrix format via the quasi-coordinate Lagrange method. Continuously, in order to verify the extracted dynamic model, the system is also modelled as a flexible multi-body in ADAMS software. Finally, parameters of the equation-based model and the ADAMS model are compared. Investigation on the results of this comparison shows satisfactory validation of the equations of motion.
Sildenafil: Raynaud Phenomenon
Authors: Generali Joyce , Cada Dennis J.
Published: August 2010

Off-Label Drug Uses

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label DrugFacts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label DrugFacts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific FDA-unapproved drug uses. This new guide to the literature will enable the health care professional/clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and to determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. The most relevant data are provided in tabular form, so the reader can easily identify the scope of information available. A summary of the data—including background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations—precedes each table of published studies. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information prior to patient care decisions. Direct questions or comments regarding “Off-Label Drug Uses” to hospital pharmacy@drugfacts.com .
Sterile Preparation Evolves: A USP <797> Implementation Story
Authors: Stein Susan M.
Published: August 2010

The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) revised and renumbered the chapter describing sterile product preparation. Renumbering the document resulted in enforceable requirements for sterile preparation. This document, the infamous Chapter <797>, will improve sterile preparation in many institutions. The regulation change was a result of contaminated preparations following attempts to standardize sterile guidelines.

The process to understand, review, plan, and implement change and improvement in sterile preparation process is an initially vast, but ongoing task. The journey of USP <797> implementation at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) involved education, gap analysis, reorganization, and training. Sections of Chapter <797> posed particular challenges and issues in areas including environmental and equipment, product preparation, storage, and dating, as well as, personnel training and testing.

Financial implications of fully implementing the recommendations can be overwhelming. Regardless, institutions must start the process by working in their current environment, while maintaining focus on a vision of a fully compliant sterile product preparation system.
Medication Orders are Written Clearly and Transcribed Accurately – Implementing Medication Management Standard 3.20 and National Patient Safety Goal 2b
Authors: Laselle Travis J. , May Sondra K.
Published: August 2010

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) Medication Management Standards and certain National Patient Safety Goals contain specific requirements aimed at promoting medication safety. Medication Management Standard 3.20 states, “Orders are written clearly and transcribed accurately.” National Patient Safety Goal 2b states, “Standardize a list of abbreviations, acronyms, and symbols that are not to be used throughout the organization.” After minimal success with educational interventions aimed at eliminating unacceptable abbreviations and obtaining indications for PRN (as needed) orders, Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU) instituted a hard stop; no orders containing an unacceptable abbreviation or PRN order without an indication were processed by pharmacy, and the prescriber was required to rewrite the order. After instituting the hard stop, the frequency of unacceptable orders decreased from 25% of all processed orders to 3%. Although the hard stop was very successful in terms of outcome, it caused workflow interruptions, and increased workload for pharmacy, nursing, and prescribers. Because of staff feedback, the hard stop has been modified to eliminate pages to physicians—unless the order is unclear. As a result, there has been an increase in the number of orders containing unacceptable abbreviations or PRN orders without an indication. Maintaining consistency in order writing is a process that requires continual attention.
Recent Publications on Medications and Pharmacy
Authors: Generali Joyce
Published: August 2010

Hospital Pharmacy presents this new feature to keep pharmacists abreast of new publications in the medical/pharmacy literature. Articles of interest will be abstracted monthly regarding a broad scope of topics. Suggestions or comments may be addressed to Joyce Generali, Director of Drug Information at Kansas University Medical Center, 3901 Rainbow Blvd, Kansas City, KS 66160 or jgeneral@kumc.edu .
Vasculitis after Flu Shot; Pulmonary Toxicity Associated with Amiodarone may be Difficult to Assess; Capecitabine-Induced Severe Hypertriglyceridemia; Infliximab-Induced Lupus Erythematosus Tumidus; Ifosfamide-Induced Nonconvulsive Status Epilepticus; Seizure Activity Due to an Antiseizure Drug - Especially When Used Off-Label; Two Interesting Reviews concerning Adverse Events
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: August 2010

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the FDA's medWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting preventable ADR to medWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Retrospective Evaluation of Delayed Administration of Fondaparinux in Providing Comparable Safety and Efficacy Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Elective-Arthroplasty Procedures
Authors: Ottinger Joseph G.
Published: August 2010

Purpose

To evaluate the selected outcome measures of venous thromboembolic (VTE) events and major bleeding in patients undergoing a major-elective arthroplasty procedure. Comparing fondaparinux initiated 18 to 24 hours after the procedure with alternative regimens recommended by the Seventh ACCP Conference on Antithrombotic and Thrombolytic Therapy consensus guidelines for prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism.

Background

The Lehigh Valley Hospital, Cedar Crest campus has three large orthopedic groups providing services at this site. Each group has successfully managed post-surgical bleeding and prophylaxis of VTE occurrences using individually managed anticoagulation regimens. In house monitoring has shown equivalency. Recently, a new agent was FDA-approved that might provide a further reduction in venous embolic events, but potentially at the cost of increased major bleeding. Some data suggest that the ‘timing’ of an anticoagulant's dose may impact both bleeding and thrombotic event rates. However, the exact ‘optimum’ time and regimen to maximize these two divergent outcomes is still elusive. This paper is meant to provide some insight into these issues.

Methods

The records of all elective major orthopedic procedures involving hip or knee replacement were identified for the period of January 1 to June 30, 2004. Patients (n = 185) receiving fondaparinux 18 to 24 hours after their surgical intervention were compared with all other patients (n = 550) who received any VTE prophylaxis regimen. Electronic chart review was performed by pharmacists to collect preselected outcome data related to these procedures. Patients were evaluated for all cause 30-day readmissions related to bleeding or VTE events and any in- hospital mortality or in-hospital VTE events.

Results

Of 735 patients, 185 patients received fondaparinux post-operatively in the selected time frame. The remaining 550 patients received either warfarin or enoxaparin. The patients had similar demographic characteristics, and the ratios of procedural events were equivalent. Length of stay (LOS) data were also comparable. Outcome measures as assessed by a 30-day readmission rates for any morbidity, symptomatic venous embolic event, bleeding, or in-hospital VTE event were also statistically equivalent during the analyzed period. No major bleeds were seen in any of the evaluated patients.

Conclusions

The possibility of using fondaparinux for VTE prophylaxis and initiating therapy at the 18- to 24-hour mark post-operatively appears to provide equivalent levels of safety and efficacy compared to regimens using warfarin or enoxaparin.
Deferasirox
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: August 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent to you in print and CD ROM forms and are available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of your facility. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The April 2006 monograph topics are ranolazine extended release tablets, insulin human (rDNA origin) inhalation powder, sunitinib malate capsules, ibandronate intravenous, and immune globulin subcutaneous. The DUE is on ranolazine entended release tablets.
Internally-Developed Online Adverse Drug Reaction and Medication Error Reporting Systems
Authors: Smith Kelly M. , Trapskin Philip J. , Empey Philip E. , Hecht Keith A , Armitstead John A.
Published: August 2010

Online reporting systems for adverse drug reaction (ADR) and medication error (ME) reporting were developed at the University of Kentucky Chandler Medical Center. Collaboration between Pharmacy Services, Information Services, and the Drug Information Center resulted in the creation of two stand-alone systems that input data directly into centrally-stored databases. Web forms were designed using Web-authoring tools, as well as javascript and server-side scripting. Medication error reporting incorporated an E-mail notification process for hospital personnel based upon patient location, medical service, and severity of the error. Adverse drug reaction reporting increased initially following implementation, but leveled out soon thereafter. Conversely, ME reporting greatly increased, and also captured a greater number of type A MEs (eg, situations with a capacity for error). A number of system changes and patient safety initiatives have been implemented in response to data obtained from the reporting systems. Internally developed systems have supported customized forms that meet the institution's reporting needs and support a safer patient care environment.
Conivaptan
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri , Baker Danial E.
Published: August 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to your Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee. Subscribers also receive monthly one-page summary monographs on the agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent to you in print and CD ROM forms and are available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of your facility. Subscribers to the The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. If you would like information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The May 2006 monograph topics are anidulafungin, selegiline transdermal system, lubiprostone, mecasermin rinfabate injection, and rotavirus vaccine. The DUE is on anidulafungin.
Nimodipine Alert; Benzocaine Public Health Advisory; Lithium in mg or mEq; Can't Touch This!
Authors: Cohen Michael R.
Published: August 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them in your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the USP Medication Errors Reporting Program (MERP), which is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices. If you have encountered medication errors and would like to report them, you may call USP toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 800-233-7767 (800-23-ERROR).

Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported through the ISMP ( www.ismp.org ) or USP ( www.usp.org ) Web sites or communicated directly to ISMP by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE or via E-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.