bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ENU-induced mutation in the Ankrd11 gene results in an osteopenia-like phenotype in the mouse mutant Yoda
Authors: Barbaric Ivana , Perry Mark J. , Dear T. Neil , Rodrigues Da Costa Alexandra , Salopek Daniela , Marusic Ana , Hough Tertius , Wells Sara , Hunter A. Jackie , Cheeseman Michael , Brown Steve D. M.
Published: November 2007

The mechanisms that regulate bone mass are important in a variety of complex diseases such as osteopenia and osteoporosis. Regulation of bone mass is a polygenic trait and is also influenced by various environmental and lifestyle factors, making analysis of the genetic basis difficult. As an effort toward identifying novel genes involved in regulation of bone mass, N-ethyl- N-nitrosourea (ENU) mutagenesis in mice has been utilized. Here we describe a mouse mutant termed Yoda that was identified in an ENU mutagenesis screen for dominantly acting mutations. Mice heterozygous for the Yoda mutation exhibit craniofacial abnormalities: shortened snouts, wider skulls, and deformed nasal bones, underlined by altered morphology of frontonasal sutures and failure of interfrontal suture to close. A major feature of the mutant is reduced bone mineral density. Homozygosity for the mutation results in embryonic lethality. Positional cloning of the locus identified a missense mutation in a highly conserved region of the ankyrin repeat domain 11 gene ( Ankrd11). This gene has not been previously associated with bone metabolism and, thus, identifies a novel genetic regulator of bone homeostasis.
Evaluation of Doppler USG and CSF Flow Wave Patterns in the Diagnosis of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Obstructions
Authors: Kaplan Metin , Yakar Huseyin , Orhan Hacı , Erol Fatih S.
Published: November 2007

Objective: In the present study, our aim was to designate standards for Doppler USG images correlating with dysfunctions in each segment of the ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. Materials and Methods: For this mechanical study, a platform was formed with pools filled with SF on both sides. Low-, intermediate- and high-pressure shunt mechanisms were placed on this platform. For each shunt system, flow wave pattern was evaluated. Doppler USG was performed when the shunt functioned normally, the peritoneal, ventricular ends and the exit of the valve were obstructed. The results were recorded. Results: When the distal end of the peritoneal catheter was obstructed, no flow wave pattern was observed in Doppler USG. When the exit of the valve was obstructed, no flow pattern was taken from the peritoneal end, either. When the valve was pressed on the ventricular catheter, a second wave pattern with lower amplitude and a wider base was observed, in addition to the wave pattern that was observed when the pressure on the valve was removed. Conclusion: Doppler USG is an effective method for the diagnosis of shunt obstruction. The evaluation of flow wave patterns using this method instead of measuring flow rates creates a different standard for each situation.
Audits Can Improve Neurosurgical Practice – Illustrated by Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy
Authors: Meling Torstein R. , Tiller Christian , Due-Tønnessen Bernt J. , Egge Arild , Eide Per Kristian , Frey Frøslie Kathrine , Lundar Tryggve , Helseth Eirik
Published: November 2007

Objective: A single-center, retrospective study was performed to evaluate the effect of audit on the patient selection for endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV). Materials and Methods: Between 01.01.99 and 07.31.01, 134 patients underwent ETV (group 1). During this period, there was no consensus within the neurosurgical community as to patient selection criteria for ETV. A review of our clinical practice in August 2001 demonstrated significantly lower ETV success rates for patients <6 months of age, patients with communicating hydrocephalus (HC) and for patients with prior shunt surgery. Thus, stricter patient selection criteria were established. Between 08.01.01 and 12.31.02, 54 patients were operated (group 2). The two groups were compared with respect to age, type of HC, previous shunt surgeries and ETV success rates. The primary outcome event was ETV malfunction, defined as symptoms and/or signs of increased intracranial pressure leading to repeat ETV or shunt implantation. Follow-up was done through outpatient clinics and telephone interviews. Average follow-up time was 12 months (range 0–44 months). No patient was lost to follow-up. Results: The overall 1-year ETV success rate in group 2 (65%) was significantly higher than in group 1 (53%) (p < 0.04). Group 2 had a significantly higher proportion of patients >6 months of age (p = 0.013) and with obstructive HC (p = 0.001). Conclusion: Patient selection criteria critically affect the overall ETV success rate. An audit of our results led to a significant change in clinical practice, thereby improving the ETV success rates and patient care.
Ossified Cephalhematoma
Authors: Gupta P.K. , Sara Mathew G. , Malik A.K. , Al Derazi T.
Published: November 2007

Ossified cephalhematoma is a rare clinical entity and a pathological curiosity. Even though cephalhematoma is frequently encountered, ossified cephalhematoma is seen only sporadically and is restricted to only few case reports in the literature. Its pathogenesis is unclear, and the clinical course is different in neonates and juveniles. The risk factors are known, but why it gets ossified in some cases is not understood. We report a case of ossified cephalhematoma which developed in a 10-week-old male child in the right parietal region and discuss its possible pathogenesis.
Transorbital Orbitocranial Penetrating Injury due to Bicycle Brake Handle in a Child
Authors: Agrawal Amit , Pratap Akshay , Agrawal C.S. , Kumar Anand , Rupakheti Shail
Published: November 2007

Transorbital orbitocranial penetrating injuries (TOPI) are relatively rare and can be caused by a variety of unusual objects. Diagnosis of TOPI should be based on a detailed history and evaluation of available investigations as the penetrating injury may be overlooked. In the present case, a child sustained a penetrating injury with the brake handle of a bicycle due to the accidental fall of the bicycle on him and was managed conservatively.
Hepatic Pseudocyst as a Result of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kaplan Metin , Ozel S. Kerem , Akgun Bekir , Kazez Ahmet , Kaplan Serpil
Published: November 2007

Hepatic pseudocyst formation is a rare intra-abdominal complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts. The presence of an intracranial tumor and a history of central nervous system infection are major risk factors for the development of this complication. Hepatic pseudocysts secondary to ventriculoperitoneal shunts can be classified as intra- and extra-axially growing cysts. On abdominal computed tomography images, extra-axially growing pseudocysts are typically surrounded by a fine annulus that shows continuity to hepatic parenchyma. For treatment of extra-axially growing hepatic pseudocysts, surgical unroofing of the cyst and repositioning of the catheter is an effective method if there is no shunt infection and/or dysfunction.
Congenital Aneurysm Presenting as Peripheral Facial Paresis
Authors: Iglesias S. , Hinojosa J. , Esparza J. , Muñoz A. , Otero A.
Published: November 2007

The incidence of intracranial aneurysms in infancy is relatively rare. They are infrequent in children less than 1 year old, and are an exception in the neonatal period. They usually originate in the internal carotid artery bifurcation, posterior circulation and seldom in the territory of the distal middle cerebral artery distribution. Infants often present with nonspecific symptoms: irritability, lethargy, vomiting, seizures and coma. Sometimes, they may present with unexpected clinical symptoms such as peripheral facial palsy. Subarachnoid hemorrhage is the most frequent presentation in this kind of aneurysms. Intracerebral hematoma is unusual. We present the case of a 10-week-old child harboring a middle cerebral artery aneurysm. To our knowledge, this is the first case of an aneurysm presenting as a peripheral facial paresis in a pediatric patient.
Salvage of a Complicated Myelomeningocele Using Collagen (Duragen) and Dermal (Alloderm) Matrix Substitutes
Authors: Grigoryants Vladimir , Jane Jr John A. , Lin Kant Y.
Published: November 2007

We present a report of a boy born with a myelomeningocele who underwent several attempts at closure of the defect, each complicated by wound dehiscence and/or cerebrospinal fluid leak. Successful closure was ultimately achieved using a combination of collagen matrix (Duragen) and dermal matrix (Alloderm) substitutes as covering of the defect beneath the adjacent skin flaps. The literature on the use of collagen and dermal matrix substitutes for myelomeningocele is also reviewed.
Primary Cerebral ALK-1-Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma in a Child
Authors: Karikari Isaac O. , Thomas Keyne K. , Lagoo Anand , Cummings Thomas J. , George Timothy M.
Published: November 2007

A 4-year-old African American male was referred to the Pediatric Neurosurgery Service for evaluation of new onset seizures and worsening mental status. An MRI of the brain revealed a pineal region mass with diffuse leptomeningeal enhancement and compression of the basilar cisterns. A biopsy of the brain revealed histologic and immunophenotypic findings characteristic of ALK-1+ anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). ALCL rarely occurs in the central nervous system and poses a significant diagnostic challenge often leading to a delay in the initiation of appropriate treatment. We describe a case of a rapidly deteriorating clinical course in a child with central nervous system ALCL and review the current literature on ALCL occurring in the central nervous system.
Posterior Fossa Dermoid Cyst in a Patient with Goldenhar Syndrome
Authors: Dange N. , Bonde V. , Goel A. , Muzumdar D.
Published: November 2007

A 7-year-old boy with Goldenhar syndrome was diagnosed to have a posterior cranial fossa dermoid cyst. The presence of such a combination of clinical entities has not been reported earlier. The embryonic dysgenesis causing midline posterior fossa dermoid and other anomalies observed in Goldenhar syndrome occur between the third and fifth week of intrauterine life and are probably interrelated. This report emphasizes the need for a high index of suspicion and the value of cranial imaging in a case with Goldenhar syndrome.
Subdural Empyema in a Case of Gaucher Disease: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Garg Anil , Agrawal Deepak , Suri Ashish , Mahapatra A.K.
Published: November 2007

Subdural empyema is a surgical emergency; if not recognized and managed early, it may prove fatal. In most of the cases, condition is preceded by paranasal sinusitis, otitis media or trauma. The authors report a previously undescribed case of spontaneous subdural empyema associated with Gaucher disease that had a good outcome following burr hole evacuation of subdural empyema and parenteral antibiotics. Patients with Gaucher disease may be vulnerable to severe bacterial infections, due to defective function of phagocytic cells and hypersplenism.
Open-Access Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy a Decade after the Introduction of Proton Pump Inhibitors and Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Shift in Endoscopic Findings
Authors: van Kerkhoven Lieke A.S. , van Rijswijck Sally J. , van Rossum Leo G.M. , Laheij Robert J.F. , Witteman Ellen M. , Tan Adriaan C.I.T.L. , Jansen Jan B.M.J.
Published: November 2007

Background/Aim: Over the past 15 years, there were considerable changes in factors associated with the development and treatment of upper gastrointestinal symptoms, of which the introduction of proton pump inhibitors and Helicobacter pylori eradication in guidelines for treatment of patients with dyspepsia are the most prominent: findings at open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy have not been evaluated properly ever since. This study aims to compare the current prevalence of upper gastrointestinal endoscopic findings to the prevalence 15 years ago. Methods: Data about endoscopic findings of consecutive patients for the first time referred for open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy between January 2002 and December 2004 was collected from medical files. The prevalence of each specific finding was compared with data described in three historical populations about 15 years ago. Results: The current and historical study population consisted of 1,286 and 3,062 subjects, respectively. The prevalence of peptic ulcer disease and duodenitis significantly decreased by 12.6% (95% CI: 14.5–10.7) and 2.9% (95% CI: 4.5–1.3), respectively. On the other hand, the prevalence of reflux esophagitis and Barrett’s esophagus both significantly increased by 6.9% (95% CI: 4.2–9.6) and 2.1% (95% CI: 0.8–4.4), respectively. Conclusions: Compared to 15 years ago, the prevalence of specific findings at open-access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy has changed considerably.
A One-Year Randomized Controlled Psychosocial Intervention Study among Family Carers of Dementia Patients – Effects on Patients and Carers
Authors: Ulstein Ingun D. , Sandvik Leiv , Bruun Wyller Torgeir , Engedal Knut
Published: November 2007

Objective: To test the effect of a short-term psychosocial intervention programme for family carers of patients with dementia and identify characteristics of carers and patients that responded positively. Methods: The study was a multi-centre randomized controlled trial. Carers of 180 patients suffering from dementia recruited at 7 memory clinics at geriatric or psychiatric departments participated in the study. Carers of the intervention group were educated about dementia and in 6 group meetings taught how to use structured problem-solving. The control group received treatment as usual. The effect on patients was measured with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory and on carers with the Relatives’ Stress Scale (RSS). Results: The intention-to-treat efficacy analysis included 171 carer/patient dyads. The intervention did not have any effect on the primary outcome variables. The burden measured by the RSS increased in both groups; however, more carers of the control group converted from a low-burden group to a medium- or high-burden group after 4.5 months. In a subgroup analysis we found a statistically significant difference in the Neuropsychiatric Inventory score in favour of the intervention group among female patients. Conclusion: The predominately negative result of this study emphasizes the need of individually tailored interventions for carers and the use of narrow inclusion criteria when performing group-based interventions, such as the extent of burden as well as gender and kinship.
Effect of Cyclooxygenase and Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibitors on Streptozotocin-Induced Hyperalgesia in Rats
Authors: Bujalska Magdalena , Tatarkiewicz Jan , de Cordé Anna , Gumułka Stanisław Witold
Published: November 2007

We examined a possible involvement of cyclooxygenase (COX) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) products in hyperalgesia occurring during streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Indomethacin and celecoxib were used as relatively selective inhibitors of COX-1 and COX-2, respectively. NOS inhibitors included: non-specific inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine and L-N6-(1-iminoethyl)lysine preferentially acting on inducible NOS (iNOS) as well as 7-nitroindazole relatively specific inhibitor neuronal NOS (nNOS). The above-mentioned agents, except 7-nitroindazole, suppressed hyperalgesia occurring after administration of STZ. The results of the study suggest participation of COX-1, COX-2 and iNOS, but not nNOS, in transmission of pain stimuli in STZ-induced diabetic hyperalgesia.
Abnormal Bone and Mineral Metabolism in Kidney Transplant Patients – A Review
Authors: Sprague Stuart M. , Belozeroff Vasily , Danese Mark D. , Martin Lynn P. , Olgaard Klaus
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: Abnormal bone and mineral metabolism is common in patients with kidney failure and often persists after successful kidney transplant. Methods: To better understand the natural history of this disease in transplant patients, we reviewed the literature by searching MEDLINE for English language articles published between January 1990 and October 2006 that contained Medical Subject Headings and key words related to secondary or persistent hyperparathyroidism and kidney transplant. Results: Parathyroid hormone levels decreased significantly during the first 3 months after transplant but typically stabilized at elevated values after 1 year. Calcium tended to increase after transplant and then stabilize at the higher end of the normal range within 2 months. Phosphorus decreased rapidly to within or below normal levels after surgery and hypophosphatemia, if present, resolved within 2 months. Low levels of 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D typically did not reach normal values until almost 18 months after transplant. Conclusion: This review provides evidence demonstrating that abnormal bone and mineral metabolism exists in patients after kidney transplant and suggests the need for treatment of this condition. However, better observational and interventional research is needed before advocating such a treatment guideline.
Long-Term Noninvasive Ventilation in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Fauroux Brigitte , Le Roux Evelyne , Ravilly Sophie , Bellis Gil , Clément Annick
Published: November 2007

Background: The benefits of long-termnoninvasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) have not yet been evaluated in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Objectives: To evaluate the effect of 1 year of NPPV on lung function in patients with advanced CF. Methods: Data were obtained from the French CF Registry. Patients who started NPPV (ventilated group, n = 41) were compared to matched controls (control group, n = 41). Each ventilated patient was matched to a control 1 year before the start of NPPV (year –1) for gender, CFTR genotype, age ± 5 years and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) ± 10%. The ventilated group was compared to the control group at year –1, during the year of NPPV initiation (year 0) and 1 year after NPPV (year +1). Results: At year –1, the two groups were comparable with regard to forced vital capacity (FVC; 43.7 vs. 49.1% in the ventilated group and the control group, respectively) and FEV1 (28.2 vs. 28.5%). At year 0, the ventilated group had significantly greater declines in FVC (–3.6 ± 9.2 vs. +0.8 ± 8.9%, p = 0.03) and in FEV1 (–3.0 ± 6.7 vs. +2.6 ± 4.4, p < 0.0001). At year +1, the decreases in FVC (–2.1 ± 10.0 vs. –2.2 ± 9.9%) and in FEV1 (–2.2 ± 6.7 vs. –2.3 ± 6.2%) were similar in both groups. Conclusions: These data show that NPPV is associated with stabilization of the decrease in lung function in patients with advanced CF.
Carotid Atherosclerosis and Endothelial Cell Adhesion Molecules as Predictors of Long-Term Outcome in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Papagianni Aikaterini , Dovas Spyros , Bantis Christos , Belechri Anna-Maria , Kalovoulos Michalis , Dimitriadis Chrysostomos , Efstratiadis Georgios , Alexopoulos Efstathios , Memmos Dimitrios
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of increased morbidity and mortality for hemodialysis (HD) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive values of carotid artery atherosclerotic lesions and endothelial adhesion molecule levels for long-term outcome in non-diabetic HD patients. Methods: 112 HD patients (60 male, mean age 59 years) consecutively entered the study. Atherosclerotic disease was assessed by measuring the mean and maximum intima-media thickness (IMT and IMTmax respectively) of the common carotid arteries using an ultrasound scanner. Circulating intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) levels were measured by ELISA. Patients were followed for the next 5 years and primary end points on follow-up were all-cause death, death from CVD causes and incidence of a CVD event. Results: Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that survival curves for all-cause mortality, CVD mortality and morbidity differed significantly between the upper and lower tertiles of baseline IMT (p = 0.002, p = 0.01 and p = 0.001 respectively) and IMTmax values (p = 0.0007, p = 0.006 and p = 0.0003 respectively), as well as ICAM-1 (p = 0.008, p = 0.003 and p = 0.02 respectively) and VCAM-1 levels (p = 0.004, p = 0.012 and p = 0.025 respectively). In non-adjusted analysis all-cause mortality and CVD mortality and morbidity were significantly associated with IMT (p = 0.003, p = 0.01 and p = 0.001 respectively) and IMTmax values (p = 0.001, p = 0.007 and p = 0.0007 respectively). After adjusting for other significant covariates, IMT values remained associated only with CVD morbidity (p = 0.03), while IMTmax were associated with both CVD mortality and morbidity (p = 0.03 and p = 0.01 respectively). All-cause mortality and CVD mortality and morbidity were also significantly associated with serum ICAM-1 (p = 0.004, p = 0.005 and p = 0.01 respectively) and VCAM-1 levels (p = 0.008, p = 0.02 and p = 0.03 respectively). After adjusting for the same covariates, the associations between ICAM-1 and all-cause mortality and CVD mortality and morbidity remained significant (p = 0.02, p = 0.01 and p = 0.02 respectively), while serum VCAM-1 levels were independently associated only with all-cause mortality (p = 0.02). Conclusions: In non-diabetic HD patients, carotid atherosclerosis and adhesion molecule levels are independent predictors of long-term clinical outcomes and may be useful surrogate markers for risk stratification in these patients.
Representation, Corruption, and Subjective Well-Being
Authors: Tavits Margit
Published: November 2007

This study examines the effect of corruption and representation on people's subjective well-being. Using cross-national data from 68 countries and survey data from 16 European democracies, the analysis demonstrates that people report higher levels of subjective well-being when (a) their governments perform well (i.e., are clean rather than corrupt) and (b) the party of their choice is in power. The effect of corruption overshadows that of macro-economic variables and conditions the effect of representation—having one's party of choice in power increases well-being when governments are clean but not when they are corrupt. These findings provide strong and systematic evidence that governments can have a significant impact on people's well-being.
Economic Judgments, Party Choice, and Voter Abstention in Cross-National Perspective
Authors: Tillman Erik R.
Published: November 2007

This article proposes and applies a unified model of economic voting. The central claim of this article is that economic judgments affect the decision of whether to vote as well as how to vote. An analysis of cross-national survey data supports this claim, demonstrating that previous studies of economic voting have failed to identify the full relationship by omitting abstention. In addition, the analyses support a refined version of the clarity of responsibility hypothesis, showing that institutional clarity moderates the strength and nature of economic voting, with little evidence of vote-switching among parties in low-clarity settings. These findings suggest that students of voting behavior should give greater attention to the relationship between the decisions of whether and how to vote.
Big Brother, Africa is watching
Authors: Jacobs Sean
Published: November 2007

This article discusses the interrelation between the reality television genre, as represented by the Big Brother Africa series, and broader social, economic and political developments on the African continent. The article argues that the series has had profound impacts and consequences on the African continent and its people, particularly, though not exclusively, in those countries where it was broadcast. These effects were unpredictable and sometimes contradictory. They shed light on a range of complex issues all too often cast aside or altogether ignored in discussions of cultural phenomena south of the Sahara: economic relations between countries, issues of race and class, and perceptions of self and other, among others. At the same time, they significantly complicate mainstream, primarily US- and Western Europe-centered, analyses of the reality television phenomenon. Most importantly, they bring into focus debates within Africa concerning processes of globalization.
`The pillar of fire by night, to shew them light': Israeli broadcasting, the Supreme Court and the Zionist narrative
Authors: Schejter Amit M.
Published: November 2007

This article discusses cases in which the Israeli Supreme Court was asked to block the broadcasting of television programs produced by the national broadcaster – the Israel Broadcasting Authority (IBA) – on the grounds that they purportedly misrepresented historical truths. The article shows, through various examples, how the court uses its ideological biases in order to serve the dominant interpretation of the history of Zionism and to perpetuate this interpretation by providing it with a judicial stamp of approval. Providing relevant background to the events portrayed in these television programs and the ideological controversies surrounding them, the article describes how the court’s traditional interpretation of Zionism, as well as its long-established view of the role of media in society, contribute to its decisions, and, consequently, how the court has joined the media in creating the ‘mediated/imagined’ Israeli community.
UNESCO, ICT corporations and the passion of ICT for development: modernization resurrected
Authors: Leye Veva
Published: November 2007

This article critically examines the partnerships between ICT (information and communication technology) corporations, focusing on Microsoft, and UNESCO. These partnerships are situated within the information society discourse and within the trend of increased private sector cooperation in the United Nations system. The ‘ICT for development’ paradigm, which is seen as the conceptual linchpin of these cooperative activities, is considered to be a new version of the modernization paradigm. It is argued that, in many ways, UNESCO’s partnerships with ICT corporations and its ethical approach of the information society/knowledge societies, turn a blind eye to structural political, economic and political economic inequalities. This ignorance is then related to UNESCO’s turbulent history regarding the questioning of inequities in communication, media and information.
Order versus access: news search engines and the challenge to traditional journalistic roles
Authors: Carlson Matt
Published: November 2007

This article examines tensions between new media forms and traditional journalistic practice through the rise of news search engines that index news stories from across the web. Specifically, Google News is taken up as a case study because of its popularity and its insistence on not using human editors. Conflicting normative articulations of journalism arise between traditional news and news search engines: the former promotes an interpretive order through purposefully structuring the news product to create a meaningful map of what is important, while the latter promotes diversity through creating easy access to different viewpoints and multiple versions of a story without legitimating one view over another. As a result, tensions form around questions of what journalism does and what it should do.
Performance-Based Contracting in Social Welfare Programs
Authors: Heinrich Carolyn J. , Choi Youseok
Published: November 2007

The Wisconsin Works (W-2) program changed the administrative structure for social welfare services delivery from county government administration to one that includes performance-based contracting and private sector management of programs. We present a theoretical discussion of government contracting and the implications of alternative contract structures for service provider behavior and performance. We then analyze W-2 contract design and management across four contract periods (1997-2005) as the state transitioned to a performance-based contracting regime. We find that the state made rational changes in the W-2 contract specifications and performance measures that should have improved contract efficiency and effectiveness over time, and service providers responded to these changes in allocating effort toward the achievement of priority performance goals. At the same time, deficiencies in program administration and contract management contributed to some contract and performance failures and setbacks.
The Electronic Mountain
Authors: Peled Alon
Published: November 2007

Federal computer projects frequently fail because federal organizations are mandated to follow an erroneous Enterprise Architecture (EA) metaphor. The article promotes an alternative metaphor that highlights the principles of incremental evolution, learning, exploration and slow adaptation, experimentation, and minimal architecture. To advance this approach, the archaeological history of excavating the oldest man-made mountain ( Tel Gezer where 28 ancient civilizations are layered one on top of the other) is compared with the history of modernizing the latest man-made mountain (the Internal Revenue Service's main computer systems where numerous generations of computer programs are layered one on top of the other). Through this most unusual “comparative tale,” the article also exposes the human characteristics of successful federal information technology project leaders: humility, curiosity, and patience.
Implementing Judicial Management Systems Within an Integrated Justice Information Framework
Authors: Rottman Joseph W. , Smith L. Douglas , Long David A. , Crofts Chuck
Published: November 2007

For three decades, federal, state, and local agencies have recognized the potential value of integrated information systems for law enforcement and administration of justice. Despite legislative directives, and efforts from associations of government officials to develop common standards for interchange of information, the realization of a truly integrated justice information system (IJIS) has been an elusive target. We describe an in-depth study of alternative approaches to the development of a judicial management system in a large U.S. city and use the case to illustrate the conflicting forces at play in effecting an efficient, comprehensive, and statewide solution.
Posterolateral Elbow Impingement in Professional Boxers
Authors: Valkering Kars P. , van der Hoeven Henk , Pijnenburg Bas C. M.
Published: November 2007

Background

Elbow injury is common in boxing, but it has not been reported in the literature. The onset is often a hyperextension trauma caused by a missed hit. Clinically the boxers complain of pain, stiffness, and an extension deficit.

Purpose

To evaluate the pathogenesis, diagnostic approach, and arthroscopic treatment of elbow injury in boxers, and to compare these with other sports-related elbow injuries.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2005, a group of 5 professional boxers received a diagnosis of posterior elbow impingement. An arthroscopic debridement was performed. All patients were evaluated preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively with the Hospital for Special Surgery Elbow Assessment Scale.

Results

An arthroscopic partial resection of the posterior olecranon tip was performed, and osteophytes and fibrous tissue were removed in this area. Loose bodies were removed from the elbow in 3 patients. They were present in the posterior compartment in 2 patients and the anterior compartment in 1. The Hospital for Special Surgery score showed satisfactory to good improvement after 1 year in all 5 cases. They all showed a normal function at follow-up and had a full return to their sports activities. In contrast with the valgus extension overload syndrome, our patients did not show any signs of concomitant ulnar collateral ligament injury.

Conclusion

Posterolateral elbow impingement in boxers is caused by hyperextension trauma. Concomitant medial elbow instability was not present. Standard arthroscopic debridement showed good results.
Kidney Injuries in Professional American Football
Authors: Brophy Robert H. , Gamradt Seth C. , Barnes Ronnie P. , Powell John W. , DelPizzo Joseph J. , Rodeo Scott A. , Warren Russell F.
Published: November 2007

Background

The frequency and severity of kidney injuries and their impact on return to play in American football has not been described in the literature.

Purpose

Our objective is to identify the number of kidney injuries in the National Football League (NFL) and the effect of these injuries.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

All kidney injuries in the NFL from 1986 to 2004 were reviewed, including the type and mechanism of injury, treatment, and time to return to play. In addition, NFL physicians and athletic trainers were asked if they were aware of any football player at the professional, collegiate, or high school levels who had lost a kidney and how they would advise a football player with only 1 functioning kidney.

Results

A total of 52 cases of renal injuries were identified, an average of 2.7 cases per season. The rate of kidney injury was 10 times greater during games (0.000055 per exposure) than practices (0.000005 per exposure) ( P < .0001). The most common injury was kidney contusion (42), followed by kidney laceration (6) and kidney stones and dysfunction (2 each). Almost all the injuries were contact related (49). More than a third of the players required hospitalization for their injury (18), although none required surgery. All the athletes returned to play. The most days missed were after a kidney laceration (mean, 59.8), followed by kidney contusion (15.1) and dysfunction (14.0). While 61% of respondents would allow a professional athlete with only 1 kidney to play, approximately 50% would advise a college athlete with only 1 functioning kidney not to play football, and 60% would advise a similar high school athlete not to play.

Conclusion

Renal trauma is a rare but potentially debilitating injury in the NFL, with players at greater risk during games. Most players recover to play, but it may take some time, especially with a kidney laceration. It may be safe for players with only 1 functioning kidney to play in the NFL.
Evaluation of Compressive Nonlinear Response of Unidirectional Carbon Fiber Reinforced Composites using a Modified Sandwich Beam Specimen in Flexure
Authors: Yokozeki Tomohiro , Ogasawara Toshio , Ishikawa Takashi
Published: November 2007

Nonlinear mechanical behaviors of unidirectional composites were evaluated under compressive loading up to high-strain ranges using a sandwich beam specimen with the emphasis on the elastic material nonlinearity in the fiber direction. Specimen configuration and evaluation method, including material nonlinear effects, were proposed, and the compressive nonlinear behavior and strength of unidirectional carbon fiber reinforced composites were experimentally obtained. The measured compressive behaviors were compared with those from coupon-type compression tests of unidirectional and quasi-isotropic laminates. The compressive strength of unidirectional laminates evaluated, using the present sandwich method, was much higher than that of coupon specimens, whereas the failure strain of the former was almost identical to that of coupon-type quasi-isotropic laminates. The proposed method is expected to contribute to the accurate evaluation technology of compression behaviors of unidirectional laminates up to high-strain ranges.
Dynamic Analysis of A Symmetric Laminated Composite Beam Subjected to a Moving Load with Constant Velocity
Authors: Kiral Zeki , Kiral Binnur Goren
Published: November 2007

This study deals with the dynamic behavior of a symmetric laminated composite beam subjected to a concentrated force traveling at a constant velocity. The dynamic analyses for a fixed-fixed composite beam under the action of a moving load are carried out by the finite element method. A three-dimensional finite element model based on the classical lamination theory is used. The Newmark integration method is employed in order to calculate the dynamic response. A computer code is developed using MATLAB to perform the finite element vibration analysis. The dynamic magnification, which is defined as the ratio between the dynamic and static displacements is obtained for different load velocities and ply orientations. The results reported in this paper show that load velocity and ply orientation have significant effect on the dynamic response, especially for those with [90]2s lay-up. For a fixed-fixed beam, the maximum mid-point deflection is observed when the total traveling time is equal to the first natural period of the beam.
Magnetoelastic Transient Stress and Perturbation of Magnetic Field Vector in a Laminated Hollow Cylinder
Authors: Dai H.L. , Fu Y.M. , Wang X.
Published: November 2007

An analytical method is presented to solve magnetoelastic wave propagation and perturbation of magnetic field vector in a laminated hollow cylinder with arbitrary thickness. The magnetoelastodynamic equation for each separate orthotropic hollow cylinder is solved by means of finite Hankel transforms and Laplace transforms. The unknown constants involved in the solution for each separate layer are determined by using the interface continuity conditions between layers and the boundary conditions at the internal and external boundaries of the laminated hollow cylinder. Thus an exact solution for magnetoelastic transient stresses and perturbation of magnetic field vector in the laminated hollow cylinder is obtained. From sample numerical calculations, it is seen that the present method is suitable to solve magnetoelastic transient problems of laminated hollow cylinders placed in an axial magnetic field, subjected to a radial shock load.
The Effect of Thermal Environment on Axial Crushing Load of Sandwich Tubes
Authors: Tian Q.L. , Wang X.
Published: November 2007

According to the classical Alexander solution for the axial collapse of bare metal tubes, a theoretical model is presented to predict the effect of thermal environment on the axial crushing load of a sandwich tubes with an arbitrarily fiber-reinforced layer between the two metal walls, based on a ring collapse mode. The mechanical property of metal walls is considered as a linear function of temperature change. A simple comparison, not considering thermal effect with the experiment previously obtained, is used to prove that the derived mean crushing load and length of the local folding mode are reasonable. The effects of wrapping direction of the reinforcing fibers in sandwich tubes and different thermal environments on the axial crushing load are investigated. The results show that the mean crushing load of a sandwich tubes gradually decreases as the temperature change increases, which must be considered in engineering designs.
Spatial Weighting of Smart Materials for Real-time Measurement of Aerodynamic Forces
Authors: Keats-Pullen David , Hubbard James E. , Guerreiro Nelson M.
Published: November 2007

Spatial weighting techniques are used to determine the apertures of a conformal smart material sensor required to measure aerodynamic forces on an aircraft wing section. Aperture shading with a linear weighting allows for the compilation of an aerodynamic center of pressure sensor. A technique is presented that allows the extraction of sectional aerodynamic forces, such as lift and drag, from appropriately shaped sensor electrodes. An example of the implementation of this sensor aperture weighting technique is given for a wing section with a NACA 0010 airfoil cross-section. It is shown that, given any airfoil cross-section, a unique lift and drag sensor aperture can be derived. Preliminary data from the testing of a prototype center of pressure sensor is presented. This sensor technology enables real-time measurement of aerodynamic forces in a free-flight testing environment.
In Vitro Atherosclerotic Plaque Characterization by Acoustic Impedance Monitoring, Part II: Experimentation and Validation
Authors: Dugnani R. , Chang F.K.
Published: November 2007

Although coronary atherosclerosis is the leading cause of hospitalization and death in the United States, at present no effective diagnostic technique is available to effectively characterize atherosclerotic plaque in vivo and in real-time. In `Introduction' of this article, we propose the use of an impedance-based technique to diagnose the presence of atherosclerotic plaque. Both analytical and finite element methods are developed to study the effect of a multi-layer substrate in contact with a sensor on the sensor's electro-mechanical impedance. Also a modified version of the Krimholtz, Leedom, and Matthaei (KLM) model is introduced to design the sensor dimension based on a sensor/plaque configuration. An appropriate fabrication technique for manufacturing a small-scale PZT sensor is also proposed for possible use in small arteries. In section `Analytical Model' of the article, we show that the presence of plaque can be accurately predicted by using the proposed impedance-probing technique on samples of human, atherosclerotic tissues. The presence of atherosclerotic plaque in the samples — as predicted by our technique — is confirmed by a histological examination carried out at the Stanford Histology Research Core Lab. The plaque mechanical properties are approximated based on a modified KLM model describing the sensor-artery system. The properties predicted are found to be consistent with the values reported in the literature. A brief study pertaining to the pressure necessary to achieve an acceptable contact between the PZT sensors and the probed artery is presented in the last section of the article. This work suggests that it is possible to characterize atherosclerotic plaque in real-time using the described impedance-based monitoring technique. One future possible application for this technique could be — for instance — the detection of unstable plaque in arteries prior to percutaneous transmural angioplasty (PTA).
Vibration Control of Smart Composite Laminated Spherical Shell using Neural Network
Authors: Kumar Rajeev , Mishra Bhanu , Jain Satish
Published: November 2007

This study presents a neural network approach for the identification and control of a smart composite laminated spherical shell. The spherical shell is in the form of a layered composite shell having a sensor and an actuator layer. The vibratory response of the shell is modeled using FEM. A degenerate shell element is implemented to model composite laminated spherical shell. Modeling is based on the first-order shear deformation theory and linear piezoelectricity theory. The mode superposition method has been used to transform the coupled finite element equations of motion in the physical coordinates into a set of reduced uncoupled equations in the modal coordinates. The reduced uncoupled equations are transformed into discrete state space form. An identifier neural network has been trained using the results of the FEM program to predict the future response of the structure from the immediate history of the system's response. Then a controller neural network has been trained with the aid of the identifier neural network so that the overall behavior of the controlled system can be described by a prescribed reference model. Numerical results have been presented for the vibratory response of the laminated composite spherical shell. The controlled response of the shell is found to exactly follow the reference model.
A Two-stage Floating Raft Isolation System Featuring Electrorheological Damper with Semi-Active Fuzzy Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Cheng Zhao  , Dayue Chen
Published: November 2007

In this article, a semi-active fuzzy sliding mode control (FSMC) strategy for the vibration attenuation is presented based on the fact that for two-stage electrorheological (ER) damper floating raft isolation system, the upper bounds for uncertainty external disturbance and the parameters perturbation are hard to estimate in advance, and the damping force of ER damper is controlled continuously. The parameters of sliding surface are selected based on Hurwitz stable judgement of sliding mode motion equation. Fuzzy controller is designed in terms of the sliding mode reaching condition and the maximal damping force of ER damper. The optimal vibration attenuation of the intermediate mass is guaranteed due to the control rule that damping force only dissipates the vibration energy of the main object. The robustness of the proposed semi-active FSMC method with respect to parameter variations and the effectiveness of the controller designed in this study are demonstrated by numerical simulation. It showed that the proposed semi-active FSMC strategy realized by the ER damper can achieve better performance than those of optimally passive damping and maximum damping variety even if system parameter variations exist. In addition, the experiment was carried out to demonstrate the practical effectiveness of the presented control scheme in this study. The experimental results are satisfied.
Introducing the Latent Congruence Model for Improving the Assessment of Similarity, Agreement, and Fit in Organizational Research
Authors: Cheung Gordon W.
Published: November 2007

A structural equation modeling—based latent congruence model (LCM) is developed for studying congruence in organizational research. Numerical examples are used to demonstrate that the LCM offers many advantages over the current approaches (difference scores, profile similarity indices, and polynomial regression) to studying congruence. The LCM can (a) control for measurement errors by specifying the congruence of latent variables, (b) examine measurement equivalence across the component measures, (c) examine the antecedents and consequences of both the mean (absolute level) and difference (congruence) of two component measures simultaneously, (d) study both congruence and components by decomposing the congruence measures into component measures, and (e) examine complex congruence models that include multiple congruence measures as antecedents and/or consequences.
Review: PCR for bacterial 16S ribosomal DNA in multiple sclerosis cerebrospinal fluid
Authors: Lindsey JW , Patel S.
Published: November 2007

The cause of multiple sclerosis (MS) is currently unknown. The hypothesis of this study is that MS is caused by a chronic bacterial infection of the central nervous system (CNS) and the ensuing immune response. We developed a sensitive two-stage polymerase chain reaction method using nested or semi-nested primers specific for the bacterial 16S ribosomal DNA to test for the presence of bacterial DNA in cerebrospinal fluid. We designed seven sets of primers to amplify DNA from spirochetes , Campylobacter, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, Bartonella , Mycobacteria and Streptococcus and tested cerebrospinal fluid from patients with relapsing—remitting MS, primary progressive MS, transverse myelitis and controls. We did not detect DNA from any of the groups of bacteria in patients or controls. We conclude that we were unable to find evidence for CNS infection with any of these seven groups of bacteria in MS. Multiple Sclerosis 2008; 14: 147—152. http://msj.sagepub.com