bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capturability-based analysis and control of legged locomotion, Part 2: Application to M2V2, a lower-body humanoid
Authors: Pratt Jerry , Koolen Twan , de Boer Tomas , Rebula John , Cotton Sebastien , Carff John , Johnson Matthew , Neuhaus Peter
Published: August 2012

This two-part paper discusses the analysis and control of legged locomotion in terms of N-step capturability: the ability of a legged system to come to a stop without falling by taking N or fewer steps. We consider this ability to be crucial to legged locomotion and a useful, yet not overly restrictive criterion for stability. Part 1 introduced the N-step capturability framework and showed how to obtain capture regions and control sequences for simplified gait models. In Part 2, we describe an algorithm that uses these results as approximations to control a humanoid robot. The main contributions of this part are (1) step location adjustment using the 1-step capture region, (2) novel instantaneous capture point control strategies, and 3) an experimental evaluation of the 1-step capturability margin. The presented algorithm was tested using M2V2, a 3D force-controlled bipedal robot with 12 actuated degrees of freedom in the legs, both in simulation and in physical experiments. The physical robot was able to recover from forward and sideways pushes of up to 21 Ns while balancing on one leg and stepping to regain balance. The simulated robot was able to recover from sideways pushes of up to 15 Ns while walking, and walked across randomly placed stepping stones.
Survival of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft and the Contralateral ACL at a Minimum of 15 Years
Authors: Bourke Henry E. , Salmon Lucy J. , Waller Alison , Patterson Victoria , Pinczewski Leo A.
Published: August 2012

Background:

The risks for primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture have been established. What is less well known is the risk of graft rupture after reconstruction and also the risk of a primary ACL rupture in the contralateral knee.

Purpose:

To determine the long-term survival of the ACL graft and the contralateral ACL (CACL) after reconstruction and to identify factors that increase the odds of subsequent ACL injury.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

All patients having undergone primary ACL reconstruction in 1993 or 1994 by a single surgeon in a single unit were considered. Patients were contacted to complete a subjective interview by telephone or e-mail questionnaire at a minimum of 15 years after surgery.

Results:

A total of 755 patients met the inclusion criteria, and ACL reconstruction was performed using a single-incision endoscopic technique with either autologous bone–patellar tendon–bone graft (BPTB; n = 314) or hamstring tendon graft (HT; n = 359) and metal interference screw fixation. Of these patients, 673 (89%) completed the questionnaire; 23% had sustained either a graft rupture or CACL rupture. Expected survival of the ACL graft was 95%, 93%, 91%, and 89% at a respective 2, 5, 10, and 15 years after reconstruction. Expected survival of the CACL was 97%, 93%, 90%, and 87%, respectively. Survival of the ACL graft was less favorable in men than in women ( P = .007); ACL graft survival was not significantly different between the HT (88%) or BPTB (91%) groups ( P = .149). Rupture of the CACL occurred twice as frequently as graft rupture in the BPTB group (graft survival, 84% vs 89%; P = .003). A positive family history of ACL rupture doubled the odds of both ACL graft and CACL rupture. The mean International Knee Documentation Committee subjective score at 15 years was 85. Return to preinjury sport levels was reported in 73% of patients, and 51% were still participating in strenuous or very strenuous activities at 15 years.

Conclusion:

Fifteen years after ACL reconstruction, expected survival of the ACL graft was 89% and expected survival of the CACL was 86%. Graft choice did not affect ACL graft rupture, but using BPTB increased the risk of CACL rupture compared with HT. Men had a less favorable survival rate of the ACL graft than did women, and a family history of ACL rupture increased the risk of both ACL graft and CACL rupture.
Quantifying Acromiohumeral Distance in Overhead Athletes With Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Loss and the Influence of a Stretching Program
Authors: Maenhout Annelies , Van Eessel Valerie , Van Dyck Lieselot , Vanraes Aagje , Cools Ann
Published: August 2012

Background:

Loss of internal rotation range of motion (ROM) on the dominant side is well documented in athletes performing overhead sports activity. This altered motion pattern has been shown to change glenohumeral and scapular kinematics. This could compromise the subacromial space and explain the association between glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) and subacromial impingement.

Purpose:

First, to quantify acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and compare between the dominant and nondominant side in overhead athletes with GIRD of more than 15°. Second, to investigate the effect of a sleeper stretch program on ROM and AHD.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Range of motion was measured with a digital inclinometer and AHD was measured with ultrasound in 62 overhead athletes with GIRD (>15°) at baseline. Differences between sides were analyzed. Athletes were randomly allocated to the stretch (n = 30) or control group (n = 32). The stretch group performed a 6-week sleeper stretch program on the dominant side. Change of range of motion and AHD were measured and analyzed in both groups after 6 weeks.

Results:

The dominant side showed a significant internal rotation deficit (−24.7° ± 6.3°) and horizontal adduction deficit (−11.8° ± 7.4°) and the dominant side AHD was significantly smaller with the arm at neutral (−0.4 ± 0.6 mm) and at 45° (−0.5 ± 0.8 mm) and 60° (−0.6 ± 0.7 mm) of active abduction compared with the nondominant side. After stretching, significant increase of internal rotation (+13.5° ± 0.8°), horizontal adduction (+10.6° ± 0.9°) ROM and AHD (+0.5 to +0.6mm) was observed at the dominant side of the stretch group compared with prestretching measurements. No significant change of AHD was seen in the nondominant side of the stretch group and in both sides of the control group.

Conclusion:

The AHD, a 2-dimensional measure for subacromial space, was found to be smaller on the dominant side in athletes with GIRD and was found to increase after a 6-week sleeper stretch program.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings might provide insight into the relation between GIRD and subacromial impingement but future studies are needed to determine clinical implications.
Higher Plasma Homocysteine Is Associated With Lower Vitamin B6 Status in Critically Ill Surgical Patients
Authors: Hou Chen‐Tai , Wu Ying‐Hsun , Cheng Chien‐Hsiang , Huang Pei‐Ning , Huang Yi‐Chia
Published: August 2012

Background: Hyperhomocysteinemia might be at least partially due to compromised B vitamin status in critically ill patients and has been linked with critical illness. This study was conducted to examine the association between plasma homocysteine with B vitamins and clinical outcomes in critically ill surgical patients. Methods: Thirty‐two patients in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) were enrolled. Disease severity (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score), hematological values, serum and erythrocyte folate, serum vitamin B12, plasma, and erythrocyte pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP) were determined within 24 hours of admission and again after 7 days. Results: The prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in the patients was either 46.9% (plasma homocysteine ≥12 µmol/L) or 31.3% (plasma homocysteine ≥15 µmol/L) on day 1 in the SICU and increased to 62.5% (plasma homocysteine ≥12 µmol/L) and 37.5% (plasma homocysteine ≥15 µmol/L) on day 7 after admission to the SICU. Plasma homocysteine, serum folate, and vitamin B12 significantly increased by day 7, whereas plasma and erythrocyte PLP remained constant throughout the study. Plasma homocysteine was not correlated with serum folate and vitamin B12. However, plasma and erythrocyte PLP on day 1 were adversely associated with day 1 levels of plasma homocysteine after adjusting for potential confounders. Plasma homocysteine on day 1 or changes (Δ day 7 – day 1) did not show any association with clinical outcomes. Conclusions: Lower plasma PLP might be a significant factor for increased plasma homocysteine in critically ill surgical patients. The association between plasma homocysteine and clinical outcomes was not found.
The Microbiota and Its Metabolites in Colonic Mucosal Health and Cancer Risk
Authors: Vipperla Kishore , O'Keefe Stephen J.
Published: August 2012

Recent advances in our ability to identify and characterize the human microbiota have transformed our appreciation of the function of the colon from an organ principally involved in the reabsorption of secretory fluids to a metabolic organ on a par with the liver. High‐throughput technology has been applied to the identification of specific differences in microbial DNA, allowing the identification of trillions of microbes belonging to more than 1000 different species, with a metabolic mass of approximately 1.5 kg. The close proximity of these microbes with the mucosa and gut lymphoid tissue helps explain why a balanced microbiota is likely to preserve mucosal health, whereas an unbalanced composition, as seen in dysbiosis, may increase the prevalence of diseases not only of the mucosa but also within the body due to the strong interactions with the gut immune system, the largest immune organ of the body. Such abnormalities have been pinpointed as etiological factors in a wide range of diseases, including autoimmune disorders, allergy, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, and colon cancer. Recognition of the strong potential for food to manipulate microbiota composition has opened up new therapeutic strategies against these diseases based on dietary intervention.
Prospective Randomized Comparative Study of Low‐Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Tubes in Children
Authors: Al‐Zubeidi Dina , Rahhal Riad M.
Published: August 2012

Background: Supplemental enteral nutrition through gastrostomy tubes is well established in children, but prospective studies comparing different tubes remain lacking in this population. The study aimed at comparing different aspects related to the use of low‐profile balloon gastrostomy tubes in children. Materials and Methods: The authors prospectively studied the use of 2 tube types—tube A (MIC‐Key gastrostomy tube; Ballard Medical Products, Draper, UT) and tube B (MINI One gastrostomy tube; Applied Medical Technology, Brecksville, OH)—in a cohort of children in a crossover study design. Children were randomly assigned to 1 tube type for 4 months, followed by the other tube type for the next 4 months. Patients were evaluated at enrollment and at 4 and 8 months, with monitoring phone calls at 2 and 6 months. Variables measured included caregiver satisfaction, tube‐related complications, and device durability. Results: Twenty‐one patients were included in the study. Infection rate (range, 4.8%–5.0%) and overall leakage rate (range, 42.9%–50.0%) were similar in both groups. Trends were noted with other variables measured but without statistical significance. These included lower rates of formula leakage and granulation tissue growth and higher satisfaction scores with tube B and more favorable device durability with tube A. Conclusion: Both low‐profile balloon gastrostomy tubes performed well and had comparable caregiver satisfaction, complications, and overall device durability.
CEO Compensation in Private Family Firms
Authors: Michiels Anneleen , Voordeckers Wim , Lybaert Nadine , Steijvers Tensie
Published: August 2012

Although classical agency theorists claim that pay-for-performance is not relevant in the context of private family firms, the authors provide empirical evidence of the opposite, using a sample of 529 privately held U.S. family firms. The results suggest that objective performance-based measures play a significant role in CEO compensation. Additionally, the authors find that in private family firms CEO compensation is more responsive to firm performance in firms with low ownership dispersion and in the controlling-owner stage. Furthermore, the positive pay-for-performance relation is slightly stronger for nonfamily CEOs than for family CEOs.
Bovine Hemoglobin
Authors: Jordan Shane D. , Alexander Earnest
Published: August 2012

Introduction: Management of severe symptomatic anemia in critically ill Jehovah’s Witness patients remains a challenge. The paucity of therapeutic alternatives to human red blood cells has prompted the use of blood substitutes. Case Report: A 19-year-old female Jehovah’s Witness patient presented to the emergency department following several episodes of syncope. She was found to have a positive Coombs test and was diagnosed with warm-bodied autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Upon admission, her hemoglobin was 8.4 g/dL, then dropped to a nadir of 2.8 g/dL 4 days later. She received traditional management with corticosteroids, intravenous immune globulin, rituximab, and partial splenic artery embolization. Despite these therapies, hemoglobin levels failed to respond, and she experienced signs of marked ischemia. A decision was made to give 2 units of Hemopure, a bovine hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier, and the hemoglobin levels increased to 8.7 g/dL 10 days later. The patient’s overall clinical condition improved leading to subsequent hospital discharge. Conclusion: This case exemplifies the ingenuity that health care practitioners must use in critical situations involving the medical management of anemic Jehovah’s Witness patients who refuse blood products. Hemopure was used as “bridging treatment” to help save a patient from the devastating effects of ischemia resulting from severe anemia.
Satisfaction With Care
Authors: Phillips Karon L. , Chiriboga David A. , Jang Yuri
Published: August 2012

Objectives: This study examined how patients’ satisfaction with their care is affected by racial/ethnic concordance and patients’ perceived interpersonal sensitivity of their providers. The sample consisted of non-Hispanic Whites, African Americans/Blacks, Hispanics/Latinos, and Asian Americans age 50 and older. Method: Data came from the population-based Commonwealth Fund 2001 Health Care Quality Survey ( n = 2,075). A hierarchical regression model of satisfaction was estimated for each racial/ethnic group with a sequential entry of variables: demographic and health-related variables, racial/ethnic concordance between patient and provider, and interpersonal sensitivity. Results: The influence of patient-provider racial/ethnic concordance on satisfaction with care was negligible, but the influence of interpersonal sensitivity was substantial ( p < .001) in all racial/ethnic groups. Discussion: Findings suggest that racial/ethnic concordance may not be universally effective for diverse older populations, but perceived interpersonal sensitivity of the provider has a strong influence on older adults’ satisfaction with care regardless of their racial/ethnic background.
Depression and Self-Reported Disability Among Older People in Western Europe
Authors: Pagán-Rodríguez Ricardo , Pérez Salvador
Published: August 2012

Objective: To analyze the existing levels of depression among older people (aged 50 or older) with and without disabilities at a European level. Methods: We analyse and compare the levels of depression among people with and without disabilities in 11 Western European countries through the use of the indicator EURO-D. We employ a logistic model for each country to estimate the effects of self-reported disability on the likelihood of being depressed. Results: Older people with disabilities suffer higher levels of depression as compared with their nondisabled counterparts, especially among women. Furthermore, significant regional differences in the levels of depression are found. Discussion: The high prevalence of depression among disabled older individuals is a phenomenon of especial interest and medical, social, and economic relevance within Europe and has important effects on the levels of well-being, employment and income reported by all older people in general, and disabled older people in particular.
Design of a novel tensile testing device and its application in tensile testing experiments on copper micro wires
Authors: Bai Qing-Shun , Cheng Kai , He Bin , Liang Ying-Chun
Published: August 2012

A tensile testing device is a crucial device for the assessment of mechanics behavior of micro structures. This article presents a tensile testing device based on a piezoelectric actuator. The mechanical structures of the device, including flexible hinge and flexure driving connector, are designed and analyzed by using a finite element method. After careful analysis and determination for the key structural parameters, the tensile device was set up and tested so as to obtain the desired accuracy. Tensile tests on copper micro wires with φ50 µm diameter were conducted, and stress–strain curves and tensile patterns of the wires have been presented by using the device developed. It is shown that the resolution for tensile movement can be 10 nm, with the scattering position accuracy of ±0.01 µm in a stroke of 37.1 µm. The results from both simulation and experiments reveal that the tensile testing device developed is effective and reliable, and meets the design specifications.
Life cycle analysis of grinding: a case study of non-cylindrical computer numerical control grinding via a unit-process life cycle inventory approach
Authors: Murray Vance R , Zhao Fu , Sutherland John W
Published: August 2012

It is estimated that the industrial sector is responsible for 29% of the United States’ greenhouse gas emissions. Recent efforts have sought to reduce the carbon footprint of manufacturing activities. Research suggests that a key to further reducing industrial-based greenhouse gas emissions is to more accurately characterize the carbon footprint of manufacturing processes. Life cycle assessment is a powerful tool that can be utilized to characterize the life cycle environmental impacts of a process. Current life cycle inventory databases that are used in life cycle assessments only have limited coverage on manufacturing operations. This article develops a parameterized process model for computer numerical control grinding, which enables the calculation of life cycle inventory data in a relatively rapid fashion and has some substantial characteristics, such as transparency, engineering quality, and the ability to reflect changes when new information is secured. Surface grinding of cobalt–chromium alloy knee implants is used as a case study to demonstrate the approach.
Integrated simulation of photovoltaic micro-generation and domestic electricity demand: a one-minute resolution open-source model
Authors: Richardson Ian , Thomson Murray
Published: August 2012

Domestic photovoltaic generation can partially offset the electricity demand within an individual dwelling. The net demand may be readily estimated on an annual basis, but modelling its import and export with respect to time, is more complex. A key issue is that domestic electricity demand, particularly lighting, is significantly influenced by the outdoor light level, which of course also has a direct effect on photovoltaic generation. Thus, realistic time-step simulation of the net demand requires that the two components are modelled with respect to a common representation of the solar irradiance. This article presents the construction of an integrated model that provides data at a one-minute time resolution, built upon a fully validated high-resolution electricity demand model. An open-source software implementation of the integrated model in VBA within Microsoft Excel is described and is available for free download.
Discouraged Entrepreneurship and Inhibited Innovation in Times of Crisis and Recession: Empirical Observations in Doing Business in a Rural Area in Central Italy
Authors: Cannarella Carmelo , Piccioni Valeria
Published: August 2012

Conventional analyses tend to explain impediments to local development as results of conjunctural or structural problems in particular during recession or crisis conditions. Areas showing huge bundles of territorial resources in theory should have positive preconditions to better cope with these adverse conditions. Nonetheless, inertial behaviours in local agents are the symptoms of the presence of blocking and discouraging mechanisms in the business context eroding the possibilities to efficiently react to recessive environment. What may concretely encourage/discourage entrepreneurs in starting up new activities in these contexts and what is determining these inertial conditions? The present study, based on some empirical observations, aims to evidence the multidimensional nature and effects of these blocking factors capable to generate long-lasting difficulties towards business initiatives and innovation, weakening the business environment and amplifying the consequences of crisis and recession conditions.
Maintaining Employment Among Caregivers of Individuals on a Medicaid Waitlist for Services
Authors: Hall Allyson G. , Bouldin Erin D. , Andresen Elena M. , Ali Ayad K.
Published: August 2012

Many individuals with developmental or intellectual and other disabilities are on waitlists to receive supportive services through state Medicaid waiver programs. Being waitlisted can place considerable burden on the ability of a caregiver to maintain employment outside the home. This article reports on results of a survey of 442 caregivers of individuals waitlisted for services within the Florida Medicaid program. Logistic regression was used to model characteristics of caregiver and clients that are associated with the need for additional supports in order for the caregiver to maintain employment. Male caregivers and caregivers in fair or poor health were more likely to report needing support. Caregivers of clients who had behavior problems or problems with self-care were also more likely to need support to maintain employment. Policy responses to these findings include a call for increased supports or prioritization of services for caregivers who are in poor health or those who care for individuals with particularly problematic behaviors.
Compromise, Well-Being, and Action Behaviors in Young Adults in Career Transition
Authors: Creed Peter A. , Blume Kellie
Published: August 2012

The authors surveyed 186 first-year university students and assessed their level of career compromise associated with making the transition to university. Compromise was operationalized as the discrepancy between the job characteristics of ideal and expected occupations. The authors also assessed career well-being (satisfaction, distress), action behaviors (planning, exploration), and goal adjustment (disengagement, reengagement). The authors expected compromise to be negatively associated with well-being and positively associated with action behaviors, and the relationship between compromise and the outcome variables (well-being, action behaviors) to be moderated by goal adjustment. Compromise was negatively associated with well-being, but not associated with planning or exploration, although the Compromise × Goal Adjustment interaction was significant. Disengagement and reengagement were not associated with well-being, although the Disengagement × Reengagement interaction was significant. Disengagement was associated with planning and exploration, reengagement was associated with exploration, and both interaction terms were significant.
Career Indecision Versus Indecisiveness
Authors: Fabio Annamaria Di , Palazzeschi Letizia , Asulin-Peretz Lisa , Gati Itamar
Published: August 2012

The goal of the present study was to investigate the distinctions between career indecision and indecisiveness. The different patterns of the associations between career indecision and indecisiveness, on one hand, and personality traits, career decision-making self-efficacy, perceived social support, and emotional intelligence, on the other, were studied in a sample of 361 university students. The results showed that career indecision, as measured by the Career Decision-making Difficulties Questionnaire, is most highly associated with emotional intelligence, whereas career indecisiveness, as measured by the Indecisiveness scale, is most highly associated with personality traits, and in particular with emotional stability. This pattern of results was obtained for both women and men; however, the prediction was stronger for indecision ( R2 = .76 and .55, for women and men, respectively) than indecisiveness ( R2 = .35 and .28, for women than for men, respectively). Possible explanations of these differences are discussed.
From “Publish or Perish” to “Grant or Perish”
Authors: Musambira George , Collins Steven , Brown Tim , Voss Kimberly
Published: August 2012

Although communication program faculty have traditionally not enjoyed large grants for research, administrators are pressuring them to garner external funding. This article examines the success rate of securing external funding that communication administrators reported for their units. Results show that while the pressure has increased on most communication programs, the success rate for getting those grants has not. In addition, support for seeking grants is not growing with the pressure, and there seems to be little difference in support between high research-oriented programs and those in lower Carnegie classifications, with the exception of help from graduate students.
Business pedagogy for social justice? An exploratory investigation of business faculty perspectives of social justice in business education
Authors: Toubiana Madeline
Published: August 2012

What needs to happen in business schools to create a space for social justice? In this article I explore business faculty members’ perspectives on social justice as a means of illuminating the ideological and institutional forces affecting pedagogy and examining the future for social justice within business schools. Participants identified three hegemonic forces driving business programs: profit-driven business ideologies, the particular character of MBA programs, and bias toward quantitative research in business programs. These forces negated the ways in which faculty engaged with social justice concepts and the ways in which they could teach and research within their respective business schools. I review these hegemonic forces and suggest that in order for social justice to be realized within business schools there has to be institutional redesign which could, potentially, be triggered by disruptive institutional work.
Late-onset smokers: How many, and associations with health behaviours and socioeconomic status
Authors: Tjora Tore , Hetland Jørn , Aarø Leif Edvard , Wold Bente , Øverland Simon
Published: August 2012

Aims: Adolescence is considered a critical phase for smoking initiation, while smoking initiation in adulthood has received less attention. In the present study, we investigated smoking initiation in early adulthood, with an additional focus on how socioeconomic status (SES) relates to late-onset smoking. Methods: The Norwegian Longitudinal Health Behaviour Study followed a representative sample of adolescents ( n=530) from age 13 (7th grade) to age 30 (years 1990–2007) through 9 waves of data collection. Information was collected on the adolescents’ gender, smoking, alcohol use, cannabis use, physical activity, and SES. Those reporting to be smokers at age 30, but not at age 18, were defined as “late-onset smokers”. Results: At age 30, 21% were daily smokers, of which 45% met our definition of late-onset smoking. Participants with a low SES had a higher odds ratio for late-onset smoking (OR=3.42) and a lower odds ratio for quitting smoking (OR=0.40) after adjusting for confounders. Conclusions: Early adulthood is an additional critical phase for daily smoking initiation. The clear and consistent negative association between SES and late-onset smoking, as well as the positive association between SES and smoking cessation, contribute to the association between SES and smoking in the general adult population.
Comparison of different methods to measure the transverse wicking behaviour of fabrics
Authors: Raja D , Ramakrishnan G , Babu V Ramesh , Senthilkumar M , Sampath MB
Published: August 2012

In this article, three test methods are described to measure the water spreading behaviour of textiles such as rate of absorbency and total absorbent capacity. The methods described are manual method, commercial image analysis method using Photoshop and embedded image analysis method using digital signal processor through MATLAB software (EIAS). With these methods the rate of absorbency and total water absorbent capacity were analysed in 12 different knitted/woven fabrics. In order to compare the three test methods, the correlation among the methods were analysed. A very good correlation (more than 0.9) was found between the manual water spreading tests and commercial image analysis method using Photoshop when compared to manual versus EIAS method. Also Photoshop versus EIAS method correlation was found better than manual versus EIAS method.
Ulnar nerve transposition using a mini-invasive approach: case series of 30 patients
Authors: Lequint T. , Naito K. , Awada T. , Facca S. , Liverneaux P.
Published: August 2012

The treatment of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow remains controversial. No single technique has yet proven its superiority. We describe a technique combining the advantages of the mini-invasive approach with those of transposition. We present the results of 30 patients, of mean age 52 years, who underwent anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve using a mini-invasive approach with a follow-up of more than six months. The incision measures 3 cm. The results were evaluated by measuring pain intensity, quick disabilities of the arm shoulder and hand (DASH), grip strength and pinch, and McGowan score, pre- and post-operatively. All parameters were improved post-operative. The mean pain score went from 5.5 to 4, the quick DASH from 48 to 38, mean grip strength from 28 to 31 kg, and mean pinch strength from 4.7 to 6.4 kg. The McGowan score was also improved; pre-operatively, there were 16 patients at stage III, seven patients stage II, seven patients stage I, and post-operatively there was one patient stage III, three patients stage II, 16 patients stage I, and 10 patients stage 0. Analysis of our series shows that a 3 cm incision without endoscopy allows subcutanous transposition, with results at least as good as those with other techniques. The advantages of our technique are that it is easy, has a limited approach, preserves blood supply, allows placement of the nerve in a favourable environment, and decreases nerve stretching during elbow flexion.
Management of the Potential Organ Donor in the ICU
Authors: Lansdale Meagan , Gropper Michael A.
Published: August 2012

There is a major gap between supply and demand of organs for transplantation. Organ donation after neurological death is increasing in the United States, and there is potential for this gap to be minimized by focused medical management of the potential donor in the ICU. Increasing organ yield requires early potential donor identification and early referral to organ procurement organizations, and understanding the medical issues specific to the brain-dead patient, such as hemodynamic instability requiring vasopressors, coagulopathy, diabetes insipidus, renal failure, and acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. Intensive care with treatment focused on these issues has the potential to increase both the number of potential donors and the number of organs transplanted per donor.
Applying National Critical Care Pharmacy Recommendations to Practice
Authors: Horner Deanna , Li Fanny , Loffler Cindy , Thompson Ashley , Gross A. Kendall
Published: August 2012

The aim of the article is to share how a pharmacist with postgraduate pharmacy residency training in critical care and work-related experience can be incorporated into an academic medical center intensive care unit. In the model described herein, a pharmacist working in the interdisciplinary environment can participate in roles far beyond that of the traditional dispensing pharmacist. The practice model is compared with the critical care pharmacy recommendations from a national pharmacy task force.
Dicer is selectively important for the earliest stages of erythroid development
Authors: Buza-Vidas Natalija , Cismasiu Valeriu B. , Moore Susan , Mead Adam J. , Woll Petter S. , Lutteropp Michael , Melchiori Luca , Luc Sidinh , Bouriez-Jones Tiphaine , Atkinson Deborah , O'Carroll Donal , Jacobsen Sten Eirik W. , Nerlov Claus
Published: August 2012

MicroRNAs (miRs) are involved in many aspects of normal and malignant hematopoiesis, including hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) self-renewal, proliferation, and terminal differentiation. However, a role for miRs in the generation of the earliest stages of lineage committed progenitors from HSCs has not been identified. Using Dicer inactivation, we show that the miR complex is not only essential for HSC maintenance but is specifically required for their erythroid programming and subsequent generation of committed erythroid progenitors. In bipotent pre-MegEs, loss of Dicer up-regulated transcription factors preferentially expressed in megakaryocyte progenitors (Gata2 and Zfpm1) and decreased expression of the erythroid-specific Klf1 transcription factor. These results show a specific requirement for Dicer in acquisition of erythroid lineage programming and potential in HSCs and their subsequent erythroid lineage differentiation, and in particular indicate a role for the miR complex in achieving proper balance of lineage-specific transcriptional regulators necessary for HSC multilineage potential to be maintained.
The first comprehensive and quantitative analysis of human platelet protein composition allows the comparative analysis of structural and functional pathways
Authors: Burkhart Julia M. , Vaudel Marc , Gambaryan Stepan , Radau Sonja , Walter Ulrich , Martens Lennart , Geiger Jörg , Sickmann Albert , Zahedi René P.
Published: August 2012

Antiplatelet treatment is of fundamental importance in combatting functions/dysfunction of platelets in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. Dysfunction of anucleate platelets is likely to be completely attributable to alterations in posttranslational modifications and protein expression. We therefore examined the proteome of platelets highly purified from fresh blood donations, using elaborate protocols to ensure negligible contamination by leukocytes, erythrocytes, and plasma. Using quantitative mass spectrometry, we created the first comprehensive and quantitative human platelet proteome, comprising almost 4000 unique proteins, estimated copy numbers for ∼ 3700 of those, and assessed intersubject (4 donors) as well as intrasubject (3 different blood samples from 1 donor) variations of the proteome. For the first time, our data allow for a systematic and weighted appraisal of protein networks and pathways in human platelets, and indicate the feasibility of differential and comprehensive proteome analyses from small blood donations. Because 85% of the platelet proteome shows no variation between healthy donors, this study represents the starting point for disease-oriented platelet proteomics. In the near future, comprehensive and quantitative comparisons between normal and well-defined dysfunctional platelets, or between platelets obtained from donors at various stages of chronic cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases will be feasible.
The evolving contribution of hematopoietic progenitor cells to lymphomagenesis
Authors: Weigert Oliver , Weinstock David M.
Published: August 2012

Recent genomic studies have outlined a landscape of recurrent alterations within some subtypes of lymphoid cancer. Yet, the timing and cellular contexts during which these alterations occur (ie, the molecular ontogeny) remain poorly understood. Lymphoid malignancies offer an exceptional opportunity to delineate the ontogeny of somatic alterations, as lymphocyte differentiation absolutely requires the introduction of indelible genetic rearrangements at antigen receptor loci during specific stages of maturation. We review competing models of lymphomagenesis and highlight evolving evidence that somatic alterations in uncommitted hematopoietic progenitors contribute to some mature lymphoid neoplasms. These progenitors could serve as reservoirs for further clonal evolution and thereby contribute to therapeutic resistance, tumor relapse, and the development of second hematologic malignancies. Defining the pathways that are dysregulated within early progenitors and the ontogeny of subsequent alterations that contribute to lymphoid transformation could establish novel therapeutic targets across a variety of hematologic malignancies and even guide avenues for future preventive strategies.
The mammalian PYHIN gene family: Phylogeny, evolution and expression
Authors: Cridland Jasmyn A , Curley Eva Z , Wykes Michelle N , Schroder Kate , Sweet Matthew J , Roberts Tara L , Ragan Mark A , Kassahn Karin S , Stacey Katryn J
Published: August 2012

Background

Proteins of the mammalian PYHIN (IFI200/HIN-200) family are involved in defence against infection through recognition of foreign DNA. The family member absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) binds cytosolic DNA via its HIN domain and initiates inflammasome formation via its pyrin domain. AIM2 lies within a cluster of related genes, many of which are uncharacterised in mouse. To better understand the evolution, orthology and function of these genes, we have documented the range of PYHIN genes present in representative mammalian species, and undertaken phylogenetic and expression analyses.

Results

No PYHIN genes are evident in non-mammals or monotremes, with a single member found in each of three marsupial genomes. Placental mammals show variable family expansions, from one gene in cow to four in human and 14 in mouse. A single HIN domain appears to have evolved in the common ancestor of marsupials and placental mammals, and duplicated to give rise to three distinct forms (HIN-A, -B and -C) in the placental mammal ancestor. Phylogenetic analyses showed that AIM2 HIN-C and pyrin domains clearly diverge from the rest of the family, and it is the only PYHIN protein with orthology across many species. Interestingly, although AIM2 is important in defence against some bacteria and viruses in mice, AIM2 is a pseudogene in cow, sheep, llama, dolphin, dog and elephant. The other 13 mouse genes have arisen by duplication and rearrangement within the lineage, which has allowed some diversification in expression patterns.

Conclusions

The role of AIM2 in forming the inflammasome is relatively well understood, but molecular interactions of other PYHIN proteins involved in defence against foreign DNA remain to be defined. The non-AIM2 PYHIN protein sequences are very distinct from AIM2, suggesting they vary in effector mechanism in response to foreign DNA, and may bind different DNA structures. The PYHIN family has highly varied gene composition between mammalian species due to lineage-specific duplication and loss, which probably indicates different adaptations for fighting infectious disease. Non-genomic DNA can indicate infection, or a mutagenic threat. We hypothesise that defence of the genome against endogenous retroelements has been an additional evolutionary driver for PYHIN proteins.
CrMPK3, a mitogen activated protein kinase from Catharanthus roseusand its possible role in stress induced biosynthesis of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids
Authors: Raina Susheel Kumar , Wankhede Dhammaprakash Pandhari , Jaggi Monika , Singh Pallavi , Jalmi Siddhi Kashinath , Raghuram Badmi , Sheikh Arsheed Hussain , Sinha Alok Krishna
Published: August 2012

Background

Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade is an important signaling cascade that operates in stress signal transduction in plants. The biologically active monoterpenoid indole alkaloids (MIA) produced in Catharanthus roseus are known to be induced under several abiotic stress conditions such as wounding, UV-B etc. However involvement of any signaling component in the accumulation of MIAs remains poorly investigated so far. Here we report isolation of a novel abiotic stress inducible Catharanthus roseus MAPK, CrMPK3 that may have role in accumulation of MIAs in response to abiotic stress.

Results

CrMPK3 expressed in bacterial system is an active kinase as it showed auto-phosphorylation and phosphorylation of Myelin Basic Protein. CrMPK3 though localized in cytoplasm, moves to nucleus upon wounding. Wounding, UV treatment and MeJA application on C. roseus leaves resulted in the transcript accumulation of CrMPK3 as well as activation of MAPK in C. roseus leaves. Immuno-precipitation followed by immunoblot analysis revealed that wounding, UV treatment and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) activate CrMPK3. Transient over-expression of CrMPK3 in C. roseus leaf tissue showed enhanced expression of key MIA biosynthesis pathway genes and also accumulation of specific MIAs.

Conclusion

Results from our study suggest a possible involvement of CrMPK3 in abiotic stress signal transduction towards regulation of transcripts of key MIA biosynthetic pathway genes, regulators and accumulation of major MIAs.
Diagnostic accuracy of the STRATIFY clinical prediction rule for falls: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Billington Jennifer , Fahey Tom , Galvin Rose
Published: August 2012

Background

The STRATIFY score is a clinical prediction rule (CPR) derived to assist clinicians to identify patients at risk of falling. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the overall diagnostic accuracy of the STRATIFY rule across a variety of clinical settings.

Methods

A literature search was performed to identify all studies that validated the STRATIFY rule. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies tool. A STRATIFY score of ≥2 points was used to identify individuals at higher risk of falling. All included studies were combined using a bivariate random effects model to generate pooled sensitivity and specificity of STRATIFY at ≥2 points. Heterogeneity was assessed using the variance of logit transformed sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Seventeen studies were included in our meta-analysis, incorporating 11,378 patients. At a score ≥2 points, the STRATIFY rule is more useful at ruling out falls in those classified as low risk, with a greater pooled sensitivity estimate (0.67, 95% CI 0.52–0.80) than specificity (0.57, 95% CI 0.45 – 0.69). The sensitivity analysis which examined the performance of the rule in different settings and subgroups also showed broadly comparable results, indicating that the STRATIFY rule performs in a similar manner across a variety of different ‘at risk’ patient groups in different clinical settings.

Conclusion

This systematic review shows that the diagnostic accuracy of the STRATIFY rule is limited and should not be used in isolation for identifying individuals at high risk of falls in clinical practice.
Exploring psychotic symptoms: a comparison of motor related neuronal activation during and after acute psychosis
Authors: Sheridan Rains Luke , Fallica Gregory , O’Daly Owen , Gilleen James , Giampetro Vincent , Morley Lucy , Shergill Sukhi
Published: August 2012

Background

Delusions and hallucinations are classic positive symptoms of schizophrenia. A contemporary cognitive theory called the ‘forward output model’ suggests that the misattribution of self-generated actions may underlie some of these types of symptoms, such as delusions of control – the experience of self-generated action being controlled by an external agency. In order to examine the validity of this suggestion, we performed a longitudinal functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study examining neuronal activation associated with motor movement during acute psychosis.

Methods

We studied brain activation using fMRI during a motor task in 11 patients with schizophrenia and 9 healthy controls. The patient group was tested at two time points separated by 6–8 weeks.

Results

At initial testing, the patient group had a mean Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale score of 56.3, and showed significantly increased activation within the left inferior parietal lobe (IPL) compared to controls. Patients reported significantly decreased positive symptoms at 6–8 week followup and IPL activation had returned to normal. Our results demonstrate that first-rank positive symptoms are associated with hyperactivation in the secondary somatosensory cortex (IPL).

Conclusions

These findings lend further credence to the theory that a dysfunction in the sensory feedback system located in the IPL, and which is thought to underlie our sense of agency, may contribute to the aetiology of delusions of control.
Legionella on board trains: effectiveness of environmental surveillance and decontamination
Authors: Quaranta Gianluigi , Vincenti Sara , Ferriero Anna Maria , Boninti Federica , Sezzatini Romina , Turnaturi Cinzia , Gliubizzi Maria Daniela , Munafò Elio , Ceccarelli Gianluca , Causarano Carmelo , Accorsi Massimo , Del Nord Pasquale , Ricciardi Walter , Laurenti Patrizia
Published: August 2012

Background

Legionella pneumophila is increasingly recognised as a significant cause of sporadic and epidemic community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia. Many studies describe the frequency and severity of Legionella spp. contamination in spa pools, natural pools, hotels and ships, but there is no study analysing the environmental monitoring of Legionella on board trains. The aims of the present study were to conduct periodic and precise environmental surveillance of Legionella spp. in water systems and water tanks that supply the toilet systems on trains, to assess the degree of contamination of such structures and to determine the effectiveness of decontamination.

Methods

A comparative pre-post ecological study was conducted from September 2006 to January 2011. A total of 1,245 water samples were collected from plumbing and toilet water tanks on passenger trains. The prevalence proportion of all positive samples was calculated. The unpaired t-test was performed to evaluate statistically significant differences between the mean load values before and after the decontamination procedures; statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

In the pre-decontamination period, 58% of the water samples were positive for Legionella. Only Legionella pneumophila was identified: 55.84% were serogroup 1, 19.03% were serogroups 2–14 and 25.13% contained both serogroups. The mean bacterial load value was 2.14 × 103 CFU/L. During the post-decontamination period, 42.75% of water samples were positive for Legionella spp.; 98.76% were positive for Legionella pneumophila: 74.06% contained serogroup 1, 16.32% contained serogroups 2–14 and 9.62% contained both. The mean bacterial load in the post-decontamination period was 1.72 × 103 CFU/L. According to the t-test, there was a statistically significant decrease in total bacterial load until approximately one and a half year after beginning the decontamination programme (p = 0.0097).

Conclusions

This study indicates that systematic environmental surveillance could be a useful approach for assessing the risk of exposure to Legionella bacteria, which still represents a public health threat. According to the study results, an environmental surveillance programme, followed by decontamination procedures where necessary, would decrease the total bacterial count, protecting the health of travellers and workers.