bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple sclerosis rehabilitation outcomes: analysis of a national casemix data set from Australia
Authors: Khan F , Turner-Stokes L , Stevermuer T , Simmonds F
Published: May 2009

Objective

To examine the outcomes of inpatient rehabilitation for persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS), using the Australian Rehabilitation Outcomes Centre (AROC) database.

Method

Deidentified data from the AROC database were analyzed for all rehabilitation admissions during 2003–2007, using four classes for functional level. The outcomes included Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores and efficiency, hospital length of stay (LOS), and discharge destination.

Results

Of 1010 case episodes, 70% were women, admitted from home ( n = 851) and discharged into the community ( n = 890), and 97% ( n = 986) were in the higher three classes for functional level (classes 216, 217, and 218). Majority of the more disabled pwMS were treated in the public hospital system, with a longer LOS compared with private facilities ( P < 0.001). The FIM for classes 216–218 showed significant functional improvement during the admission ( P < 0.001), and those in higher classes showed less change (likely due to higher FIM admission scores). FIM efficiency was significantly higher in class 217 than other classes ( P < 0.001). The year-on-year trend was toward reducing hospital LOS and FIM efficiency, but these did not reach significance ( P = 0.107, P = 0.634).

Conclusion

The AROC data set is useful for describing rehabilitation outcomes for pwMS. However, additional information needs to be collected to evaluate nature of services provided and service implications.
Fatigued patients with multiple sclerosis have impaired central muscle activation
Authors: Andreasen AK , Jakobsen J , Petersen T , Andersen H
Published: May 2009

Background

The pathogenesis of fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) is poorly understood.

Objective

To elucidate the role of central motor activation we hypothesized that patients with primary fatigue have impaired central motor function and increased fatigability as compared to secondary fatigued and non-fatigued patients.

Methods

Sixty patients with relapsing remitting MS and an Expanded Disability Status Scale score ≤ 3.5 were recruited and grouped as fatigued (Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) ≥ 5.0) or non-fatigued (FSS ≤ 4.0). Nineteen patients were primary fatigued, 20 secondary fatigued and 21 non-fatigued. Maximal voluntary contraction, central activation and peripheral activation were determined by percutaneous twitch interpolation of the right quadriceps muscle.

Results

Maximal voluntary contraction was similar between groups but did relate to scores of fatigue. Peripheral activation was similar in all groups. Central activation was impaired in both groups of fatigued patients compared to non-fatigued patients being 0.96(0.05) in primary fatigued and 0.96(0.04) in secondary fatigued versus 0.99(0.1) in non-fatigued patients. The impairment of central motor activation was related to degree of fatigue in all patients. During fatiguing exercise there was a similar loss of strength, without any time differences between the three groups.

Conclusion

We conclude that impaired central motor activation is involved in MS-fatigue.
High-dose intravenous interferon beta in patients with neutralizing antibodies (HINABS): a pilot study
Authors: Millonig A , Rudzki D , Hölzl M , Ehling R , Gneiss C , Künz B , Berger T , Reindl M , Deisenhammer F
Published: May 2009

Background

Neutralizing antibodies (NABs) against interferon beta (IFNβ) are associated with a loss of IFNβ bioactivity and clinical effectiveness. To date, there are no anti-NAB strategies available. The primary objective of this trial was to investigate whether intravenous IFNβ-1b can restore bioactivity in NAB-positive patients with MS.

Methods

NAB-positive patients with MS were treated with 8 MIU IFNβ-1b s.c., 8 MIU i.v., and 16 MIU i.v. Each application was preceded by a wash-out period of 1 week. Blood samples were collected before, 3, 12, and 24 h after each administration. Myxovirus protein A (MxA) RNA and protein levels were determined. The study has been approved by the local ethics committee.

Results

Five patients completed the study. NAB titers ranged from 42 to 4482 neutralizing units. Median MxA protein (1821, range 12–3234) and RNA (2186, range 114–7525) area under the curve levels for the four measurements at each IFNβ injection were significantly higher after i.v. application of 16 MIU as compared with both 8-MIU dosages, which were 743 (0–2709) for MxA protein after 8 MIU i.v. and 254 (0–1200) after s.c., and 1763 (25–7188) for MxA RNA after 8 MIU i.v., and 557 (5–2265) after s.c. applications. NAB titers decreased significantly and transiently after infusion of 16 MIU IFNβ-1b but not after both forms of 8 MIU applications. Typical side effects could be controlled by paracetamol. No allergic reaction was observed.

Discussion

The results indicate that i.v. administration of IFNβ can restore bioavailability of IFNβ in patients with NABs.
Clinical trials of multiple sclerosis therapies: improvements to demonstrate long-term patient benefit
Authors: Carroll WM
Published: May 2009

Background

The therapeutic goal for multiple sclerosis (MS) is to achieve a better long-term outcome. However, since available data come from short-term studies, it is important to review the evidence that current therapies provide long-term benefit.

Method and results

Long-term data from both registry studies and long-term follow-up studies, and efficacy treatment data were reviewed. Registry data show that the course of MS is predictable after a certain level of disability is reached, indicating that short-term efficacy data from randomized, controlled trials provide evidence of long-term benefit. Long-term studies of patients originally enrolled in pivotal randomized, controlled trials consistently show that delayed or discontinued treatment provides less benefit than continuous therapy. The 16-Year Long-Term Follow-Up Study of interferon beta-1b (IFNβ-1b; Betaferon®/Betaseron®) therapy had the highest ascertainment of long-term follow-up efforts of the pivotal trials, which led to the currently approved therapies. Disability scores at the start of treatment were predictive of their current disability scores. In addition, this 16-year study showed an excellent safety profile with no unexpected side effects to IFNβ-1b and a lower mortality rate after 16 years compared with those receiving placebo treatment during the pivotal study (6 deaths vs 20 deaths).

Conclusion

This article reviews the key data and provides recommendations for optimizing clinical studies in MS to demonstrate long-term patient benefit.
Mirror Therapy in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1 of the Upper Limb in Stroke Patients
Authors: Cacchio Angelo , De Blasis Elisabetta , De Blasis Vincenzo , Santilli Valter , Spacca Giorgio
Published: May 2009

Background. Complex regional pain syndrome type 1 (CRPSt1) of the upper limb is a painful and debilitating condition, frequent after stroke, and interferes with the rehabilitative process and outcome. However, treatments used for CRPSt1 of the upper limb are limited. Objective. This randomized controlled study was conducted to compare the effectiveness on pain and upper limb function of mirror therapy on CRPSt1 of upper limb in patients with acute stroke. Methods. Of 208 patients with first episode of unilateral stroke admitted to the authors’ rehabilitation center, 48 patients with CRPSt1 of the affected upper limb were enrolled in a randomized controlled study, with a 6-month follow-up, and assigned to either a mirror therapy group or placebo control group. The primary end points were a reduction in the visual analogue scale score of pain at rest, on movement, and brush-induced tactile allodynia. The secondary end points were improvement in motor function as assessed by the Wolf Motor Function Test and Motor Activity Log. Results. The mean scores of both the primary and secondary end points significantly improved in the mirror group ( P < .001). No statistically significant improvement was observed in any of the control group values ( P > .001). Moreover, statistically significant differences after treatment ( P < .001) and at the 6-month follow-up were found between the 2 groups. Conclusions. The results indicate that mirror therapy effectively reduces pain and enhances upper limb motor function in stroke patients with upper limb CRPSt1.
Is Visuospatial Hemineglect Longitudinally Associated with Postural Imbalance in the Postacute Phase of Stroke?
Authors: van Nes Ilse J. W. , van Kessel Marlies E. , Schils Fanny , Fasotti Luciano , Geurts Alexander C. H. , Kwakkel Gert
Published: May 2009

Introduction. The purpose of this study was to determine the longitudinal association of visuospatial hemineglect with postural imbalance in postacute stroke patients and to establish whether this relationship is confounded by other determinants. Methods. A prospective cohort study of 53 postacute stroke patients consecutively admitted for inpatient rehabilitation was conducted. Transfers and standing balance were assessed with the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and walking balance with the Functional Ambulation Categories (FAC). Repeated measurements took place at baseline (36.6 ± 10.4 days after stroke) and after 6 and 12 weeks. Visuospatial hemineglect was assessed by an asymmetry index, derived from the Letter and Star Cancellation Tests. Random coefficient analysis was used to analyze the longitudinal impact of visuospatial hemineglect on the BBS and FAC. The association between hemineglect and outcome was corrected for the following potential confounders: age, severity of paresis of the lower leg, sensory deficits, and presence of hypertonia. A covariate was considered to be a confounder if the regression coefficient of hemineglect on outcome changed by >15%. Results. Visuospatial hemineglect was significantly associated with BBS and FAC. The relation between hemineglect and both BBS and FAC was confounded by severity of paresis of the lower limb. After controlling for severity of paresis, hemineglect remained independently associated with BBS, whereas the association with FAC lost significance. Conclusion. Visuospatial hemineglect is an independent covariate that is longitudinally associated with postural imbalance after stroke. These findings suggest that hemineglect is an important factor for controlling static and dynamic standing balance during the first months poststroke.
The effects of inhaled and oral corticosteroids on serum inflammatory biomarkers in COPD: an exploratory study
Authors: Man S.F. Paul , Xuekui Zhang  , Vessey Rupert , Walker Terry , Lee Kwan , Park Dan , Sin Don D.
Published: May 2009

Background: Several studies suggest that inhaled and oral corticosteroids repress systemic inflammation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the cytokines that may respond to these medications are unclear.

Method: We used data from 41 patients with a history of stable moderate COPD (average age 64 years) who were randomised to inhaled fluticasone (500 μg twice daily from a Diskus inhaler), oral prednisone (30 mg daily) or placebo for 2 weeks. Using a multiplexed array system, different serum cytokines that have been implicated in COPD pathogenesis were measured.

Results: We found that compared with placebo, inhaled fluticasone significantly reduced levels of soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor-2 (sTNF-R2) by 24% (95% CI, 7—38%; p = 0.01), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 by 20% (95% CI, 5—32%; p = 0.01), interferon gamma inducible CXCL10 (IP-10) by 43% (95% CI, 3—66%; p = 0.04), and soluble L-selectin levels by 15% (95% CI, 1—28%; p = 0.04). Compared with placebo, oral prednisone reduced levels of sTNF-R2 by 26% (95% CI, 15—36%; p < 0.001), L-selectin by 22% (95% CI, 8—34%; p = 0.004), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 by 31% (95% CI, 9—48%; p = 0.01), pulmonary and activation-regulated chemokine (PARC) by 18% (95% CI, 2—32%; p = 0.03) and IP-10 by 40% (95% CI, 0—64%; p = 0.05). sTNF-R2, L-selectin and IP-10 were significantly reduced by both oral and inhaled corticosteroids. The other cytokines were not significantly repressed by either oral or inhaled corticosteroids.

Conclusions: In summary, inhaled and oral corticosteroids significantly repressed a selected number of systemic cytokines in patients with stable, moderate COPD; most of the steroid-responsive cytokines appear to be chemoattractants.
The concerted action of GM-CSF and Flt3-ligand on in vivo dendritic cell homeostasis
Authors: Kingston Dior , Schmid Michael A. , Onai Nobuyuki , Obata-Onai Aya , Baumjohann Dirk , Manz Markus G.
Published: May 2009

Dendritic cell (DC) development is efficiently supported by Flt3-ligand or GM-CSF in vitro, and lymphoid-organ DC maintenance in vivo is critically dependent on Flt3-ligand. However, the relevance of GM-CSF for lymphoid-tissue DC maintenance and the importance of both cytokines for nonlymphoid organ DC homeostasis are not defined. Here, we show that, although Gm-csfr and Flt3 are both expressed in DC progenitors, Gm-csfr is expressed predominantly in monocytes, classical DCs (cDCs), and skin DCs, whereas Flt3 is expressed in both cDCs and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs). In accordance with the respective cytokine receptor expression, DC progenitor and pDC numbers are primarily affected by Flt3-ligand deficiency, whereas both splenic and lymph node cDCs and dermal DCs are reduced in the absence of either GM-CSF or Flt3-ligand. Combined lack of GM-CSF and Flt3-ligand in newly generated double-deficient mice leads to further significant reductions of DC progenitors and dermal DCs. In line with the decrease of respective DC subsets, T-cell and antigen-specific IgG responses decline progressively, from wild-type to GM-CSF– to Flt3-ligand– to double-deficient mice, upon subcutaneous antigen delivery. These data thus show the concerted action of GM-CSF and Flt3-ligand on DC homeostasis in vivo.
The low-frequency isoform of platelet glycoprotein VIb attenuates ligand-mediated signal transduction but not receptor expression or ligand binding
Authors: Trifiro Elisabetta , Williams Shirley A. , Cheli Yann , Furihata Kenichi , Pulcinelli Fabio M. , Nugent Diane J. , Kunicki Thomas J.
Published: May 2009

The 2 most common haplotypes of human GP6, GP6a and GP6b, generate the allelic isoforms glycoprotein VI (GPVI)a and GPVIb that differ by 5 amino acids: S219P, K237E, and T249A in the ectodomains, and Q317L and H322N in the cytoplasmic domain. By quantitative Western blot, we found no association between GP6 genotype and total platelet GPVI content among 132 normal subjects. When expressed as soluble products or as membrane-associated receptors, GPVIa and GPVIb have identical affinities for type I collagen, collagen-related peptide, or convulxin. However, the cytoplasmic domain substitutions in GPVIb have a significant effect on GPVI-dependent subcellular associations and ligand-induced signal transduction. L317 increases binding to calmodulin, whereas N322 attenuates binding to Fyn/Lyn. Consistent with the latter finding, convulxin-induced Syk phosphorylation is significantly attenuated in Dami cells stably transfected with GPVIb, relative to GPVIa. This represents direct evidence that haplotype-related GPVI functional differences are inherent in the cytoplasmic domain substitutions, whereby GPVIb binds less strongly to Fyn/Lyn and attenuates the rate and extent of Syk phosphorylation. These allelic differences in GP6a and GP6b explain functional differences in the respective isoforms, but the molecular basis for the several-fold range in GPVI levels of human platelets remains to be determined.
Orymold: ontology based gene expression data integration and analysis tool applied to rice
Authors: Mercadé Jaume , Espinosa Antonio , Adsuara José-Enrique , Adrados Rosa , Segura Jordi , Maes Tamara
Published: May 2009

Background

Integration and exploration of data obtained from genome wide monitoring technologies has become a major challenge for many bioinformaticists and biologists due to its heterogeneity and high dimensionality. A widely accepted approach to solve these issues has been the creation and use of controlled vocabularies (ontologies). Ontologies allow for the formalization of domain knowledge, which in turn enables generalization in the creation of querying interfaces as well as in the integration of heterogeneous data, providing both human and machine readable interfaces.

Results

We designed and implemented a software tool that allows investigators to create their own semantic model of an organism and to use it to dynamically integrate expression data obtained from DNA microarrays and other probe based technologies. The software provides tools to use the semantic model to postulate and validate of hypotheses on the spatial and temporal expression and function of genes. In order to illustrate the software's use and features, we used it to build a semantic model of rice (Oryza sativa) and integrated experimental data into it.

Conclusion

In this paper we describe the development and features of a flexible software application for dynamic gene expression data annotation, integration, and exploration called Orymold. Orymold is freely available for non-commercial users from http://www.oryzon.com/media/orymold.html
T cells cooperate with palmitic acid in induction of beta cell apoptosis
Authors: Cvjetićanin Tamara , Stojanović Ivana , Timotijević Gordana , Stošić-Grujičić Stanislava , Miljković Djordje
Published: May 2009

Background

Diabetes is characterized by progressive failure of insulin producing beta cells. It is well known that both saturated fatty acids and various products of immune cells can contribute to the reduction of beta cell viability and functionality during diabetes pathogenesis. However, their joint action on beta cells has not been investigated, so far. Therefore, we explored the possibility that leukocytes and saturated fatty acids cooperate in beta cell destruction.

Results

Rat pancreatic islets or insulinoma cells (RIN) were co-cultivated with concanavalin A (ConA)-stimulated rat lymph node cells (LNC), or they were treated with cell-free supernatants (Sn) obtained from ConA-stimulated spleen cells or from activated CD3+ cells, in the absence or presence of palmitic acid (PA). ConA-stimulated LNC or Sn and PA cooperated in inducing caspase-3-dependent RIN cell apoptosis. The observed effect of PA and Sn on RIN cell viability was mediated by p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-signaling and was achieved through auto-destructive nitric oxide (NO) production. The cooperative effect of Sn was mimicked with the combination of interleukin-1β, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-17, interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α.

Conclusion

These results imply that stimulated T cells produce cytokines that cooperate with saturated free fatty acids in beta cell destruction during diabetes pathogenesis.
Polymorphism in COX-2 modifies the inverse association between Helicobacter pyloriseropositivity and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma risk in Taiwan: a case control study
Authors: Hu Huang-Ming , Kuo Chao-Hung , Lee Chien-Hung , Wu I-Chen , Lee Ka-Wo , Lee Jang-Ming , Goan Yih-Gang , Chou Shah-Hwa , Kao Ein-Long , Wu Ming-Tsang , Wu Deng-Chyang
Published: May 2009

Background

Overexpression of Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) was observed in many types of cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). One functional SNP, COX-2 -1195G/A, has been reported to mediate susceptibility of ESCC in Chinese populations. In our previous study, the presence of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) was found to play a protective role in development of ESCC. The interaction of COX-2 and H. pylori in gastric cancer was well investigated. However, literature on their interaction in ESCC risk is scarce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association and interaction between COX-2 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), H. pylori infection and the risk of developing ESCC.

Methods

One hundred and eighty patients with ESCC and 194 controls were enrolled in this study. Personal data regarding related risk factors, including alcohol consumption, smoking habits and betel quid chewing, were collected via questionnaire. Genotypes of the COX-2 -1195 polymorphism were determined by PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism. H. pylori seropositivity was defined by immunochromatographic screening test. Data was analyzed by chi-squared tests and polytomous logistics regression.

Results

In analysis adjusting for the covariates and confounders, H. pylori seropositivity was found to be inversely association with the ESCC development (adjusted OR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3 – 0.9). COX-2 -1195 AA homozygous was associated with an increased risk of contracting ESCC in comparison with the non-AA group, especially among patients with H. pylori seronegative (adjusted OR ratio: 2.9, 95% CI: 1.2 – 7.3). The effect was strengthened among patients with lower third ESCC (adjusted OR ratio: 6.9, 95% CI 2.1 – 22.5). Besides, H. pylori seropositivity conveyed a notably inverse effect among patients with COX-2 AA polymorphism (AOR ratio: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1 – 0.9), and the effect was observed to be enhanced for the lower third ESCC patients (AOR ratio: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.02 – 0.47, p for multiplicative interaction 0.008)

Conclusion

H. pylori seropositivity is inversely associated with the risk of ESCC in Taiwan, and COX-2 -1195 polymorphism plays a role in modifying the influence between H. pylori and ESCC, especially in lower third esophagus.
The Locomotor Capabilities Index; validity and reliability of the Swedish version in adults with lower limb amputation
Authors: Larsson Brita , Johannesson Anton , Andersson Ingemar H , Atroshi Isam
Published: May 2009

Background

The Locomotor Capabilities Index (LCI) is a validated measure of lower-limb amputees' ability to perform activities with prosthesis. We have developed the LCI Swedish version and evaluated its validity and reliability.

Methods

Cross-cultural adaptation to Swedish included forward/backward translations and field testing. The Swedish LCI was then administered to 144 amputees (55 women), mean age 74 (40–93) years, attending post-rehabilitation prosthetic training. Construct validity was assessed by examining the relationship between the LCI and Timed "Up-and-Go" (TUG) test and between the LCI and EQ-5D health utility index in 2 subgroups of 40 and 20 amputees, respectively. Discriminative validity was assessed by comparing scores in different age groups and in unilateral and bilateral amputees. Test-retest reliability (1–2 weeks) was evaluated in 20 amputees (14 unilateral).

Results

The Swedish LCI showed good construct convergent validity, with high correlation with the TUG (r = -0.75) and the EQ-5D (r = 0.84), and discriminative validity, with significantly worse mean scores for older than younger and for bilateral than unilateral amputees (p < 0.01), and high internal consistency (Cronbach alpha 0.95). In test-retest reliability the intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.91 (95% CI 0.79–0.96) but for the unilateral amputees was 0.83 (95% CI 0.56–0.94). Ceiling effect occurred in 23%.

Conclusion

The Swedish version of the LCI demonstrated good validity and internal consistency in adult amputees. Test-retest reliability in a small subsample appears to be acceptable. The high ceiling effect of the LCI may imply that it would be most useful in assessing amputees with low to moderate functional abilities.
Semaphorin 5B mediates synapse elimination in hippocampal neurons
Authors: O'Connor Timothy P , Cockburn Katie , Wang Wenyan , Tapia Lucia , Currie Erin , Bamji Shernaz X
Published: May 2009

Background

Semaphorins are known to play an important role in axon guidance and growth by triggering dynamic rearrangements of the actin cytoskeleton in the neuronal growth cone. Intriguingly, some of these guidance molecules are persistently expressed after axonal pathfinding and target recognition are completed. Although their function at these later stages is poorly understood, recent findings suggest a role for these proteins in regulating synaptic connections.

Results

Here we demonstrate that semaphorin 5B (Sema5B) regulates the elimination of synaptic connections in cultured hippocampal neurons. We show that Sema5B is proteolytically processed in neonatal brains and primary hippocampal cultures, resulting in the secretion of Sema5B fragments that include the biologically active semaphorin domain. Overexpression of full-length Sema5B in hippocampal neurons reduces synapse number while expression of a Sema5B construct lacking the semaphorin domain has no effect. Moreover, bath application with the proteolytically processed, secreted fragments containing the semaphorin domain of Sema5B, results in a rapid elimination of synaptic connections as demonstrated by time-lapse imaging. Conversely, depletion of endogenous Sema5B using RNA interference results in a significant increase in synapse number as well as a significant increase in the size of presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that in addition to its role as a guidance cue, Sema5B regulates the development and maintenance of synapse size and number in hippocampal neurons. In addition, proteolytic cleavage of Sema5B results in the release of a potentially diffusible semaphorin domain that is a necessary component for its biological function in the regulation of synapse morphology.
Human NKT cells promote monocyte differentiation into suppressive myeloid antigen-presenting cells
Authors: Hegde Subramanya , Jankowska-Gan Ewa , Roenneburg Drew A , Torrealba Jose , Burlingham William J , Gumperz Jenny E
Published: May 2009

A novel pathway by which human NKT cells may promote T cell tolerance.

NKT cells have been shown to promote peripheral tolerance in a number of model systems, yet the processes by which they exert their regulatory effects remain poorly understood. Here, we show that soluble factors secreted by human NKT cells instruct human peripheral blood monocytes to differentiate into myeloid APCs that have suppressive properties. NKT-instructed monocytes acquired a cell surface phenotype resembling myeloid DCs. However, whereas control DCs that were generated by culturing monocytes with recombinant GM-CSF and IL-4 had a proinflammatory phenotype characterized by the production of IL-12 with little IL-10, NKT-instructed APCs showed the opposite cytokine production profile of high IL-10 with little or no IL-12. The control DCs efficiently stimulated peripheral blood T cell IFN-γ secretion and proliferation, whereas NKT-instructed APCs silenced these T cell responses. Exposure to NKT cell factors had a dominant effect on the functional properties of the DCs, since DCs differentiated by recombinant GM-CSF and IL-4 in the presence of NKT cell factors inhibited T cell responses. To confirm their noninflammatory effects, NKT-instructed APCs were tested in an in vivo assay that depends on the activation of antigen-specific human T cells. Control DCs promoted substantial tissue inflammation; however, despite a marked neutrophilic infiltrate, there was little edema in the presence of NKT-instructed APCs, suggesting the inflammatory cascade was held in check. These results point to a novel pathway initiated by NKT cells that can contribute to the regulation of human antigen-specific Th1 responses.
Characterization of the interaction between serum mannan-binding protein and nucleic acid ligands
Authors: Nakamura Natsuko , Nonaka Motohiro , Ma Bruce Yong , Matsumoto Shogo , Kawasaki Nobuko , Asano Shinji , Kawasaki Toshisuke
Published: May 2009

Serum C-type lectin MBP is shown to bind DNA and RNA from bacteria, plasmids, synthetic oligonucleotides, and fragmented DNA of apoptotic cells via its carbohydrate recognition domain.

Serum MBP, also known as MBL, is a C-type lectin that is known to be a soluble host defense factor involved in innate immunity. It has been well established that dying microbes and apoptotic cells release highly viscous DNA that induces inflammation and septic shock, and apoptotic cells display fragmented DNA on their surfaces. However, PRRs that mediate the recognition and clearance of free DNA and fragmented DNA in apoptotic cells have not been characterized clearly. Although MBP was reported recently to bind DNA as a novel ligand, binding characterization and the recognition implications have not been addressed yet. In this study, we show that MBP can bind DNA and RNA in a calcium-dependent manner from a variety of origins, including bacteria, plasmids, synthetic oligonucleotides, and fragmented DNA of apoptotic cells. Direct binding and competition studies indicate that MBP binds nucleic acids via its CRD to varying degrees and that MBP binds dsDNA more effectively than ssDNA and ssRNA. Furthermore, we reveal that the MBP-DNA complex does not trigger complement activation via the MBP lectin pathway, and the lectin pathway of complement activation is required for MBP-mediated enhancement of phagocytosis of targets bearing MBP ligands and that MBP can recognize the fragmented DNA presented on apoptotic cells. Therefore, we propose that the MBP lectin pathway may support effective recognition and clearance of cellular debris by facilitating phagocytosis, possibly through immunomodulatory mechanisms, thus preventing autoimmunity.
Important issues in tolerance design of mechanical assemblies. Part 2: Tolerance synthesis
Authors: Singh P K , Jain P K , Jain S C
Published: May 2009

Tolerance design has become a very sensitive and important issue in product and process development because of increasing demand for quality products and the growing requirements for automation in manufacturing. It is an interactive process between design and manufacturing decision making. A systematic approach to tolerance design involves repeated computation following two alternate approaches, tolerance analysis and tolerance synthesis. A detailed discussion on tolerance analysis has been presented in Part 1 of this paper. The focus of this part of the paper is on tolerance synthesis, i.e. the allocation of assembly tolerance among the individual dimensions. A brief discussion on the relevant background terminology has been presented. Details of research carried out and theories developed over the decades on different aspects of tolerance synthesis have been discussed.
Scheme for real-time process planning under process deterioration
Authors: Jeang A , Tsai C-C , Chung C-P
Published: May 2009

Conventional approaches for process planning of manufacturing operations preset fixed process means and process tolerances for all operations and permit outputs to be distributed around these fixed values, provided that the final outputs meet acceptable specifications. These approaches are inappropriate for high-value and precision manufacturing processes, especially those where a complex part may suffer from process deterioration. The problem is that in these approaches, process means and process tolerances are considered to be independent decision variables, whereby the resultant process means are equal to or close to the design targets of the blueprint dimensions. In addition, they do not consider the phenomena of process shifting or deterioration as factors of manufacturing operations, but assume that process variability is small in comparison to the quality requirements. Therefore, in this study a process optimization model is introduced that simultaneously takes process means and process tolerances into account. Furthermore, it reduces process variability and offsets process deterioration by means of sequential operation adjustment. With the scheme developed in this study built into the control system, a real-time system for integrated process control and modification for making adaptive process planning can be realized.
Measurements of laminar premixed methane—air flame thickness at ambient conditions
Authors: Clarke A , Hargrave G K
Published: May 2009

A new experimental data set for the flame thickness of laminar premixed methane—air flames at ambient conditions is presented. Prior to combustion the temperature and pressure of the premixed mixture were 298 K>5 K and 100 kPa>5 kPa, respectively. The fuel—air equivalence ratio was varied from 0.8 to 1.4 in 0.05 steps. The data were obtained using simultaneous imaging of the visible and Schlieren cones on the central axis of the symmetrical flame front of a non-cooled burner configuration. The data were analysed and the plane obtained from the Schlieren image corrected using a one-dimensional energy balance to obtain the position of the cold surface of the flame and hence allow determination of the flame thickness. The data presented agree within experimental errors with the limited existing published data.

For the range of equivalence ratios studied, a second-order equation was fitted and presented for methane—air flames at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperatures.
A study of the characteristics of a one-degree-of-freedom positioning device using spring-mounted piezoelectric actuators
Authors: Liu Y-T , Wang C-K
Published: May 2009

This article presents the actuating performance of a one-degree-of-freedom (DOF) positioning device using spring-mounted piezoelectric (PZT) actuators. To employ a spring with a preset compression, the operational range of a PZT actuator could be simply enlarged, and a sliding table actuated by PZT impact force might feature long stroke and high-precision positioning ability. An experimental set-up consisting of two spring-mounted PZT actuators was configured to examine the actuating characteristics. According to experimental results, a sliding table with a heavy mass of 172 g could be actuated to move with a step motion ranging from 15 nm to 81 μm by only one single actuation of the PZT actuator, and with a maximum travelling speed of 3.47 mm/s by continuous actuation. In addition to experimental examinations, a dynamic model was established and verified as effective in describing the actuating behaviours through numerical examinations.
Numerical study of a positive displacement blower
Authors: Huang Z F , Liu Z X
Published: May 2009

The evolutionary characteristics of flow for the positive displacement blower were identified and visually analysed by performing numerical simulation of unsteady compressible flow in an involute-type three-lobe positive discharge blower using computational fluid dynamics. The two exhaust rate curves obtained by the semi-empirical method and the simulation were compared, and the differences were analysed by showing pressure contours and velocity vectors at different moments in one working period. The simulation results showed the exhaust rate having two V-type fluctuations, whereas the semi-empirical method shows the exhaust rate having only one V-type fluctuation. These differences are due to pressure fluctuations and the existence of a vortex in the mixing zone.
Climate change and the railway industry: A review
Authors: Baker C J , Chapman L , Quinn A , Dobney K
Published: May 2009

This article considers the issues surrounding climate change and the rail industry in two ways. First, it discusses the role that railways could play in reducing overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and thus help to reduce and mitigate the global temperature increase that will occur over the coming decades. It is argued that, while railways in general have lower emissions than other modes, if a significant decrease in emissions is to be attained, then the capacity of the current rail network needs to be greatly increased to encourage a significant modal shift from road and domestic air travel. Electrification and the provision of high-speed lines can also play a role in this regard, but only if the power that is drawn from the grid is supplied by low carbon sources. Second, the article considers the effect of climate change on the operation of the railway in the next few decades and the adaptations that will be required. The main effects of such changes are likely to be an increase in the track buckling problem, severe strain on railway drainage systems, and the increased likelihood of disruption because of extreme weather events. Ongoing work in this field, aimed at making the railways more resilient, is discussed. It is concluded that, for each of the two areas considered, there is a need for overall system modelling, both to fully evaluate possible mechanisms to reduce GHG emissions, taking account of transfer between modes, capacity limitations, and the national energy mix; and to properly evaluate the major climate change risks to railway operation and to prioritize the use of resources in tackling these issues.
A novel type of precision cropping machinery using rotary striking action
Authors: Tang Y , Zhao S D , Wang Z W
Published: May 2009

In this article, novel precision bar cropping machinery, with a modified rotary swaging machine, which has been extended by the addition of a stroke adjuster, was designed and built. By adjusting the strike frequency and the radial displacement, a crack can be made to propagate quickly and regularly, leading to a final regular separation of the bar. Precision cropping experiments on several metal bars were conducted, which can be directly used in the subsequent process, such as cold-extrusion and cold-forging and so on because of the high-quality cross-section, high geometric and weight precision using this cropping device.
Residence time study of a hydrodynamic vortex separator applied to predicting disinfection performance
Authors: O'Doherty T , Egarr D A , Faram M G , Guymer I , Syred N
Published: May 2009

The fluid residence time characterization of a 3.4 m diameter hydrodynamic vortex separator (HDVS) has been carried out under laboratory conditions. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling has then been undertaken for the same conditions at which the experimental data were collected and validated against the experimental results, for which reasonable correspondence has been found. Using the results from the CFD modelling and batch inactivation results from the disinfection of secondary treated wastewater, it is shown that the theoretical performance of an HDVS as a contact vessel for disinfection can be determined and the practical applicability of an HDVS for disinfection is confirmed.
Suppression of vertical bending and rigid-body-mode vibration in railway vehicle car body by primary and secondary suspension control: Results of simulations and running tests using Shinkansen vehicle
Authors: Sugahara Y , Kazato A , Koganei R , Sampei M , Nakaura S
Published: May 2009

To improve ride comfort in railway vehicles, the suppression of vertical bending vibration and rigid-body-mode vibration in the car body is essential. In this paper, a system is proposed that aims to reduce bending and rigid-body-mode vibration simultaneously by introducing damping control devices in the primary and secondary suspensions. The technique involves a control system of primary vertical dampers and air springs; the former are used to suppress the first bending mode vibration; the latter, to suppress the rigid-body-mode vibration. The results of both simulations and vehicle running tests on the Sanyo—Shinkansen line demonstrate that this system reduced vertical vibrations in the bogies and the car body using the sky-hook control theory. In the running tests in particular, the system reduced the vertical vibration acceleration PSD peak value in the first bending mode to almost 20 per cent and in the rigid body mode to almost 50 per cent compared with the case when the system was not used. As a result, the ride quality level LT (a widely used index of ride comfort in Japan) decreased by at least 3 dB, indicating greater ride comfort.
Artificial neural network as a support of platform track assignment within simulation models reflecting passenger railway stations
Authors: Bažant M , Kavička A
Published: May 2009

Simulation models reflecting the operation of transportation systems are supposed to utilize an appropriate realization of decision-making procedures. The formation or selection of adequate modelling approaches and methodologies has to be done in this context. Attention is paid to a specific operational problem related to the assignment of platform tracks to delayed arriving trains within simulation models of passenger railway stations. The application of a two-layered artificial neural network as a decision-making support associated with the mentioned assignment problem was investigated. The neural network reached very encouraging results with regard to the studied problem, which enables its profitable utilization. It means, in fact, that the quality of relevant simulation models rises and the consequent credibility of corresponding simulation studies for railway companies should be increased.
Structural integrity monitoring index (SIMdex): A methodology for assessing structural health monitoring technologies
Authors: de Leeuw B , Brennan F P
Published: May 2009

Recent years have seen enormous activity in the development of structural integrity monitoring/structural health monitoring equipment and systems. Systems based on technology that could in the past have only been used under laboratory conditions are now frequently deployed in the field very often claiming accuracy and reliability commensurate with laboratory measurements. Monitoring is certainly an exciting prospect and has many advantages over traditional NDT; there are, however, some very fundamental issues that must be resolved to benefit fully from these new technologies. Not least of these is the development of objective measures to quantitatively assess the performance characteristics of monitoring technologies. This article presents the background and development of such a measure of performance based on fatigue and fracture mechanics failure models of the host structure. This new measure, the structural integrity monitoring index or SIMdex, can be similarly applied using any failure model and criterion and means that structural integrity monitoring technologies can be objectively judged solely on their suitability for specific applications.
Aerodynamic shape optimization of a modern transport wing using only planform variations
Authors: Morris A M , Allen C B , Rendall T C S
Published: May 2009

Generic aerodynamic shape optimization technology is presented, based on a domain element approach linked with global interpolation functions. This allows an efficient shape parameterization from which both the design surface geometry and corresponding computational fluid dynamics volume mesh can be deformed directly, in a high quality and robust fashion. The technique also provides a method that allows geometries to be parameterized at various levels, ranging from general planform alterations to detailed local surface changes. The global interpolation developed is totally independent of mesh type (structured or unstructured), and optimization independence from the flow solver is achieved by obtaining sensitivity information for an advanced gradient-based optimizer (feasible sequential quadratic programming) by finite differences. Results have been presented recently for two-dimensional aerofoil cases, and drag reductions of up to 45 per cent were demonstrated. Hence, this article presents initial extension of the method to three dimensions. Results are presented for highly constrained optimization of a modern aircraft wing in transonic cruise, using only planform parameters (design variables), i.e. wing sections can move but may not deform locally. This is done to test and validate the method before moving on to higher fidelity optimizations, and more computationally expensive applications. Even with this fidelity of parameterization, only 30 parameters are used, optimization produces an 8 per cent reduction in drag.
Vibro-acoustic diagnostics of low-energy stage of failures evolution
Authors: Radkowski S
Published: May 2009

The work concerns diagnosis of the origins and development of early stages of defects based on information found in vibroacoustic signal. At the beginning the necessity of selection of diagnostic parameters dependent upon the amount of dissipated energy and related defect development is proven. Emphasizing the fact that defect development does not always lead to a significant growth of the vibroacoustic signal's power, the author has shown importance of analysis and modelling of low-energy defects.
Negotiation schemes for multi-agent cooperative search
Authors: Sujit P B , Ghose D
Published: May 2009

Because of limited sensor and communication ranges, designing efficient mechanisms for cooperative tasks is difficult. In this article, several negotiation schemes for multiple agents performing a cooperative task are presented. The negotiation schemes provide suboptimal solutions, but have attractive features of fast decision-making, and scalability to large number of agents without increasing the complexity of the algorithm. A software agent architecture of the decision-making process is also presented. The effect of the magnitude of information flow during the negotiation process is studied by using different models of the negotiation scheme. The performance of the various negotiation schemes, using different information structures, is studied based on the uncertainty reduction achieved for a specified number of search steps. The negotiation schemes perform comparable to that of optimal strategy in terms of uncertainty reduction and also require very low computational time, ∼7 per cent to that of optimal strategy. Finally, analysis on computational and communication requirement for the negotiation schemes is carried out.
Photovoltaic stratospheric isle for conversion in hydrogen as energy vector
Authors: Dumas A , Anzillotti S , Zumbo F L , Trancossi M
Published: May 2009

In a previous work it has been demonstrated that solar radiation intercepted by an unconventional airship is sufficient for all energetic needs for civil uses, namely broadcasting and telecommunications. This article analyses the energetic feasibility of an airship, named PSICHE (acronym for ‘photovoltaic stratospheric isle for conversion in hydrogen as energy vector’). It demonstrates the economic and industrial feasibility of high altitude production of electrolytic hydrogen fed by a photovoltaic plant. The most important aspects connected with high quote and hydrogen and oxygen production are discussed. The advantages of this kind of hydrogen production are presented together with the environmental benefits of the system.
Non-linear displacement control of prestressed cable structures
Authors: Xu X , Luo Y
Published: May 2009

The shapes of the prestressed cable structures are sensitive to external errors/stimuli due to their lightweight and high flexibility. When the shape distortion is deemed unacceptable, adjustment of the nodal positions is needed. For structures of linear behaviour, the displacement control problem can be converted to an optimization question. Simulated annealing algorithm combined with a technique derived from linear force method is implemented to solve this optimization question. And then, based on the linear displacement control technique and the non-linear force method, an iteration procedure is proposed to achieve the non-linear displacement control of prestressed cable structures. Two numerical examples are conducted which show that the computational results of the non-linear control method are in well agreement with the target values, while there are considerable errors for the corresponding results of the linear control method.