bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Osteochondral Allograft Preservation Using Serum-Free Media at Body Temperature
Authors: Garrity Joseph T. , Stoker Aaron M. , Sims Hannah J. , Cook James L.
Published: September 2012

Background:

Osteochondral allografts (OCAs) are currently preserved at 4°C and used within 28 days of donor harvest. The window of opportunity for implantation is limited to 14 days due to a 2-week disease testing protocol.

Hypothesis:

Osteochondral allograft tissues stored at 37°C will have significantly higher chondrocyte viability, as well as superior biochemical and biomechanical properties, than those stored at 4°C.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Osteochondral allografts from 15 adult canine cadavers were aseptically harvested within 4 hours of death. Medial and lateral femoral condyles were stored in Media 1, similar to the current standard, or Media 2, an anti-inflammatory and chondrogenic media containing dexamethasone and transforming growth factor−β3, at 4°C or 37°C for up to 56 days. Chondrocyte viability, glycosaminoglycan (GAG) and collagen (hydroxyproline [HP]) content, biomechanical properties, and collagen II and aggrecan content were assessed at days 28 and 56. Five femoral condyles were stored overnight and assessed the next day to serve as controls.

Results:

Storage in Media 1 at 37°C maintained chondrocyte viability at significantly higher levels than in any other media-temperature combination and at levels not significantly different from controls. Osteochondral allografts stored in either media at 4°C showed a significant decrease in chondrocyte viability throughout storage. Glycosaminoglycan and HP content were maintained through 56 days of storage in OCAs in Media 1 at 37°C. There were no significant differences in elastic or dynamic moduli among groups at day 56. Qualitative immunohistochemistry demonstrated the presence of collagen II and aggrecan throughout all layers of cartilage.

Conclusion:

Osteochondral allograft viability, matrix content and composition, and biomechanical properties were maintained at “fresh” levels through 56 days of storage in Media 1 at 37°C. Osteochondral allografts stored at 4°C were unable to maintain viability or matrix integrity through 28 days of storage. These findings suggest that storage of OCAs in a defined media at 37°C is superior to current protocols (4°C) for tissue preservation prior to transplantation.

Clinical Relevance:

Storage of OCAs in serum-free chemically defined media at 37°C can increase the “window of opportunity” for implantation of optimal tissue from 14 days to 42 days after disease testing clearance.
Correlation of a Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) Rating With Modified Cincinnati Knee Rating System and IKDC Subjective Total Scores for Patients After ACL Reconstruction or Knee Arthroscopy
Authors: Shelbourne K. Donald , Barnes Adam F. , Gray Tinker
Published: September 2012

Background:

Limited studies exist regarding how well a single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) rating correlates with validated knee surveys.

Purpose:

To determine whether a SANE rating correlates positively with the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and the modified Cincinnati Knee Rating System (CKRS) total scores after knee surgery.

Study Design:

Cohort study (Diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Patients undergoing either anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction or knee arthroscopy were prospectively given subjective evaluations yearly after surgery between January 2000 and June 2011. Subjective evaluations were obtained using modified CKRS and IKDC subjective knee surveys and a SANE rating. Interclass correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation of the SANE rating to the survey total scores. Bland-Altman method was used to access precision and limits of agreement between scores. In addition, the data were analyzed according to sex and age categories (<18, 18-24, 25-40, >40 years).

Results:

A total of 11,939 surveys were collected from 3209 patients (mean, 3.7 surveys/person; range, 1-22) after ACL reconstruction with a mean survey age of 35.2 ± 11.9 years (range, 13-72). A total of 4615 surveys were collected from 1813 patients (mean, 2.6 surveys/person; range, 1-17) after knee arthroscopy with a mean survey age of 47.4 ± 14.6 years (range, 11-88). For patients who underwent ACL reconstruction, the SANE rating had a moderate positive correlation of 0.66 to the total survey scores. For patients who underwent knee arthroscopies, the SANE rating had a strong positive correlation of 0.74 to total scores. There was minimal difference in correlations based on age group or sex. Bland-Altman analysis showed that the limits of agreement between the SANE score and the 2 surveys were met for at least 94% of patients in both patient groups.

Conclusion:

The SANE ratings exhibited moderate to strong positive correlations with the modified CKRS and IKDC subjective surveys after ACL reconstruction and knee arthroscopy for patients of all ages and both sexes.
An Analysis of Specific Lower Extremity Injury Rates on Grass and FieldTurf Playing Surfaces in National Football League Games
Authors: Hershman Elliott B. , Anderson Robert , Bergfeld John A. , Bradley James P. , Coughlin Michael J. , Johnson Robert J. , Spindler Kurt P. , Wojtys Edward , Powell John W. ,   for the National Football League Injury and Safety Panel, Collins James T. , Casolaro M. Anthony , Mayer Thom , Pellman Elliot , Tessendorf William , Tucker Andrew
Published: September 2012

Background:

Players in the National Football League (NFL) sustain injuries every season as the result of their participation. One factor associated with the rate of injury is the type of playing surface on which the players participate.

Hypothesis:

There is no difference in the rate of knee sprains and ankle sprains during NFL games when comparing rates of those injuries during games played on natural grass surfaces with rates of those injuries during games played on the artificial surface FieldTurf.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

The NFL records injury and exposure (ie, game) data as part of its injury surveillance system. During the 2000-2009 NFL seasons, there were 2680 games (5360 team games) played on grass or artificial surfaces. Specifically, 1356 team games were played on FieldTurf and 4004 team games were played on grass. We examined the 2000-2009 game-related injury data from those games as recorded by the injury surveillance system. The data included the injury diagnosis, the date of injury, and the surface at the time of injury. The injury data showed that 1528 knee sprains and 1503 ankle sprains occurred during those games. We calculated injury rates for knee sprains and ankle sprains—specifically, medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprains, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprains, eversion ankle sprains, and inversion ankle sprains—using incidence density ratios (IDRs). We used a Poisson model and logistic regression odds ratios to validate the IDR analysis. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to adjust the odds ratio for weather conditions.

Results:

The observed injury rate of knee sprains on FieldTurf was 22% (IDR = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-1.36) higher than on grass, and the injury rate of ankle sprains on FieldTurf was 22% (IDR = 1.22, 95% CI, 1.09-1.36) higher than on grass. These differences are statistically significant. Specifically, the observed injury rates of ACL sprains and eversion ankle sprains on FieldTurf surfaces were 67% ( P < .001) and 31% ( P < .001) higher than on grass surfaces and were statistically significant. The observed injury rates of MCL sprains and inversion ankle sprains were also not significantly higher on FieldTurf surfaces ( P = .689 and .390, respectively).

Conclusion:

Injury rates for ACL sprains and eversion ankle sprains for NFL games played on FieldTurf were higher than rates for those injuries in games played on grass, and the differences were statistically significant.
Christian Heroism and the Reconstruction of America
Authors: Aho James
Published: September 2012

This is a critical phenomenology of the latest iteration of the Christian Right: Dominionism. A brief history of the movement first situates Dominionism in the American religious landscape. The article then details eight of its political-economic objectives, followed by an account of its heroic action orientation. The article concludes with a critique of Dominionism, coupled with observations on its likely fate.
Optimization of a light guide plate injection molding stability process by integrating Taguchi quality engineering and the gray sequencing method
Authors: Lin Wen-Tsann , Wang Shen-Tsu , Li Meng-Hua , Cheng Yu-Sheng , Li An-Hua
Published: September 2012

The light guide plate is an essential key component in the development of the panel industry. In pursuit of lighter and thinner computer, communication, consumer (3C) electronics products, the panel industry continuously introduces new types of products to meet contemporary needs. Applications of a thinner light guide plate have become increasingly important. However, in the thin injection molding process, the control of geometric size and surface quality may be difficult to achieve owing to variations in conditions, such as injection pressure and temperature. Under the pressure of pursuing higher injection molding speed and lower cost, the injection industry strives to improve injection process capabilities to achieve higher quality yield, reduced production costs and processing time, and enhanced processing quality to maintain profits. Regarding the control of the Y-axis size of injection molding, this study proposed an experimental design method for injection quality improvement and injection process performance enhancement. The relevant injection parameters included temperature, back pressure, holding (dwell) pressure, and length measurement. The purpose of this study is to identify the best light guiding injection parameters to establish stable injection conditions and improve process capability. By employing the five stages of define, measure, analyze, improve, and control, this study conducted empirical research on the injection molding size stability processes of a photoelectric light guide plate, in a specific injection molding plant in Taiwan, in order to establish a process optimization model for injection molding Y-axis size stability. The research methodology integrated the parameter design method of Taguchi quality engineering and the gray sequencing method to identify the combinations of optimization parameters and experimental levels in injection molding. The experimental results suggested that C pk has been improved from 0.6 to 1.44, with a significant increase in process capability. The prediction result error rate meets accuracy requirements, which can help improve the control of capability, stability, and quality of the light guide plate injection molding size process. The research findings can provide Taiwan’s injection molding precision processing industry with a reference in quality.
Numerical investigation on the cyclic behavior of smart recentering clip-angle connections with superelastic shape memory alloy fasteners
Authors: Hu Jong Wan , Kim Dong Keon , Choi Eunsoo
Published: September 2012

Superelastic shape memory alloy materials have become increasingly prevalent for recentering devices that have the ability to recover their plastic deformation automatically. For this reason, this study proposed new clip-angle connections incorporating superelastic shape memory alloy bolts. Including component spring models, mechanical joint models of steel bolted connections and shape memory alloy bolted connections are created for numerically simulating their cyclic behavior. The numerical analysis results are then compared to each other in terms of ultimate strength, energy dissipation, and permanent deformation. In particular, over 60% of the total displacement was recovered during unloads in case of shape memory alloy bolted connections, indicating that the proposed smart connections display obvious recentering features in their behaviors.
CAFE modeling, neural network modeling, and experimental investigation of friction stir welding
Authors: Patel C , Das Sumitesh , Narayanan R Ganesh
Published: September 2012

The main aim of the present work is to develop a cellular automata finite element –artificial neural network (CAFE-ANN) hybrid model to predict the evolution of grain size and yield strength during friction stir welding. The CAFE model was developed by linking CA cells with elements in ABAQUS, a finite element code. Then a neural network was developed and trained appropriately by using the data obtained from the validated CAFE model that predicts the grain size and yield strength. The ANN results are validated. Finally it has been demonstrated that ANN can be used as a ‘virtual machine’ to examine the effect of rotational speed, welding speed, axial force and shoulder diameter on the variation in grain size and yield strength. The temperature and strain-rate distribution predicted by the thermal and strain-rate models are consistent with the existing results. The CAFE model grain size predictions are also accurate as compared to experiments. The grain size and yield strength predictions from ANN coincide well with the experimental values and CAFE model predictions. It has been demonstrated that CAFE-ANN hybrid model can be used as a ‘virtual machine’ to predict and analyze the effect of above said parameters on the grain size and yield strength evolution. The predicted influence is found to agree with some of the available results. In few cases, a slight deviation in the trend is witnessed as compared to literature results.
Turbo-discharging turbocharged internal combustion engines
Authors: Williams AM , Baker AT , Garner CP , Vijayakumar R
Published: September 2012

Turbo-discharging is a novel approach that can better utilize the energy recoverable by a turbine (or series of turbines) mounted in the exhaust flow of internal combustion engines. The recovery of blowdown pulse energy in isolation of displacement pulse energy allows the discharging (depressurization) of the exhaust system to reduce engine pumping work and improve engine fuel economy. This is a novel approach to air system optimization that has previously been studied for naturally aspirated engines. However, to be successful, turbo-discharging should be applicable to turbocharged engines, as downsizing is a promising direction for future powertrain systems.

This study uses one-dimensional gas dynamics modelling to explore the effect of turbo-discharging on a turbocharged gasoline engine, particularly focusing on the interaction with the turbocharging system. The results show that the peak engine torque is increased at low to mid speeds with high speed torque slightly reduced due to restrictions in engine breathing with low lift exhaust valves. The engine peak torque as a function of speed with a larger turbocharger and turbo-discharging was comparable to that of the smaller turbocharger without turbo-discharging. Fuel economy improvements were evident over most part-load regions of the engine map, with peak values varying from 2 to 7% depending on the baseline engine air system strategy. Hot trapped residual mass was consistently reduced across a large fraction of the engine map, with the exception of high power conditions, where the valve pressure drop effect dominated. This is expected to enable spark advance and further fuel economy benefit.

The results from this study are promising and show that the use of some of the available exhaust gas energy for turbo-discharging in preference to turbocharging can have a positive effect on both part-load and full-load engine performance. There remains significant potential for further optimization with application of variable valve actuation and turbocharger control systems (for example, variable geometry turbines).
Peacebuilding With Games and Simulations
Authors: Brynen Rex , Milante Gary
Published: September 2012

Simulations and games can offer valuable insight into the management of conflict and the achievement of peace. This special symposium issue of Simulation & Gaming examines several such approaches, used in both educational settings and to prepare practitioners to deal with the concrete challenges of peacebuilding. In the introduction, the authors offer some brief thoughts on the how and why of simulations and games-based approaches, scenario choices (abstract, fictional, and real world), intended audiences, and design approaches. They also address the question of how games might (or might not) contribute to policy making in this field.
Generalized predictive control algorithm of a simplified ground vehicle suspension system
Authors: Brown Ross , Pusey Jason , Murugan Muthuvel , Le Dy
Published: September 2012

This paper discusses research conducted by the Army Research Laboratory (ARL) - Vehicle Technology Directorate (VTD) on advanced suspension control. ARL-VTD has conducted research on advanced suspension systems that will reduce the chassis vibration of ground vehicles while maintaining tire contact with the road surface. The purpose of this research is to reduce vibration-induced fatigue to the Warfighter as well as to improve the target aiming precision in-theater. The objective of this paper was to explore the performance effectiveness of various formulations of the generalized predictive control algorithm in a simulation environment. Each version of the control algorithm was applied to an identical model subjected to the same ground disturbance input and compared to a baseline passive suspension system. The control algorithms considered include a generalized predictive controller (GPC) with implicit disturbances, GPC with explicit disturbances, and GPC with preview control. The suspension model used was a two-degree-of-freedom dof quarter-car model with a given set of vehicle parameters. The performance of the control algorithms were compared based on their effectiveness in controlling peak acceleration and overall average acceleration over a range of vehicle speeds. The algorithms demonstrated significant reductions in the chassis acceleration of the quarter-car model.
Seismic performance evaluation of unreinforced masonry school buildings in Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Salih , Tama Yavuz Selim , Bilgin Hüseyin
Published: September 2012

In this study a seismic performance assessment of school buildings, which have been built in accordance with template unreinforced masonry school projects in Turkey, has been conducted. For this purpose, the most widely used three template projects have been selected. The seismic performances of these buildings have been evaluated for various earthquake levels. This evaluation has been carried out in compliance with the Turkish earthquake code entered into force in 2007. The effects of material strength and plan features on the performance of masonry school structures have been investigated within the scope of this study. It has been concluded that school buildings with template design are far from satisfying the required performance criteria. For spectral acceleration of 0.80 g, which is expected in a 475 year period in the seismic Zone 1, the average exceedance ratio for life safety performance limit is more than 80% considering different material strengths. Upon evaluation of the results a building capacity index is proposed for rapid seismic assessment of masonry school buildings.
Morphological awareness in biliteracy acquisition: A study of young Chinese EFL readers
Authors: Zhang Dongbo , Koda Keiko , Sun Xiaoxi
Published: September 2012

This study examined contribution of morphological awareness to reading comprehension in two typologically diverse languages, focusing on young Chinese EFL (English as a Foreign Language) readers in China. It was particularly interested in how cross-linguistic similarities and variations in morphological awareness affected its transfer in Chinese–English biliteracy acquisition. Grades 5 and 6 children were measured in compound awareness and reading comprehension in English, and compound awareness, radical awareness, and reading comprehension in Chinese. Hierarchical regression analyses revealed that compound awareness contributed to reading comprehension within both Chinese and English. In addition, over and above English compound awareness and Chinese reading comprehension, Chinese compound awareness, but not radical awareness, explained a unique amount of variance in English reading comprehension. After Chinese compound awareness was controlled for, English compound awareness, however, did not make a significant contribution to Chinese reading comprehension. These findings were discussed in light of the common and language/script-dependent aspects of morphological awareness in Chinese and English and the context of biliteracy acquisition.
Indoor and Outdoor Particulate Matter Variability in Athens, Greece
Authors: Nastos P. T. , Larissi I. K. , Grigoropoulos K. N. , Antoniou A. , Paliatsos A. G.
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study is to present and analyse the indoor and outdoor temporal variability of the particulate matters of different sizes (namely: PM10, with diameter less than 10 µm; PM7, with diameter less than 7 µm; PM2.5, with diameter less than 2.5 µm and PM1, with diameter less than 1 µm) found in Athens, Greece. Four detectors were used for indoor and outdoor recordings. More specifically, the indoor recordings were performed in seminar rooms, full of students attending lectures, at the University of Athens and the Technological Education Institute of Piraeus. Findings of this research show that on one hand, the indoor particulate matter concentrations remained at lower levels than the thresholds set by the European Council Directives, but on the other hand, the outdoor particulate matter concentrations exceeded the thresholds many times.
How Do Different Locations, Floors and Aspects Influence Indoor Radon Concentrations? An Empirical Study Using Neural Networks for a University Campus in Northwestern Turkey
Authors: Atik S. , Yetis H. , Denizli H. , Evrendilek F.
Published: September 2012

Indoor radon (222Rn) concentrations were measured at a 10-min interval during October 2011 and January 2012. The monitoring followed a randomised and repeated pattern of experimental design, and was carried out at six faculty buildings of the Abant Izzet Baysal University, on five floor levels and two aspect directions (south vs. north) using an AlphaGUARD P30 Radon Monitor. The University campus area located in northwestern Turkey is near the North Anatolian Fault, a major active right lateral-moving strike-slip fault which runs along the transform boundary between the Eurasian Plate and the Anatolian Plate. Best artificial neural networks (ANNs) emulating indoor 222Rn levels were selected as a function of air temperature ( Ta), air pressure ( Pa), relative humidity (RH), Ta by RH interaction, local time, location, floor and aspect. Elevated levels of indoor 222Rn concentrations were measured at the south-facing offices and on the first floor levels of the building. Lower concentrations were found on the upper floor levels. Out of 27 ANNs, GFF-1-B-L and MLP-2-B-L performed best and could be contributing to the 35.6% and 87.2% of variations in spatio-temporal dynamics of indoor 222Rn levels as a function of location or floor level and aspect, respectively, in addition to Ta, Pa, RH, Ta by RH interaction and time.
Long-Term Trend of Indoor Volatile Organic Compounds – a 15-Year Follow-Up Considering Real Living Conditions
Authors: Herbarth Olf , Matysik Silke
Published: September 2012

Indoor volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may be associated with adverse health effects. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the indoor VOCs exposure burden has undergone changes during a past 15-year period, exemplarily in a German city. The study was limited to homes with families. To avoid possible regional-specific confounder effects, this assessment was conducted for this urban centre with a sufficiently long and continuous time series (1994–2008).

VOCs were determined using passive sampling over 4 weeks followed by liquid extraction and analysis with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. All measurement periods were equally distributed over the seasons and years.

A substantial reduction in the total sum of VOCs and aromatics could be demonstrated as well as a trend of decrease concentrations for alkanes. No such changes could be observed for cycloalkanes, chlorinated hydrocarbons and terpenes group.

Possible reasons for the reduction of indoor VOCs exposure are most likely due to the applied regulations/guidelines for the VOCs reduction in indoor-relevant products. Problems are, however, regarding the slight increase in terpene exposure. These chemicals have been found to be associated with quite specific health effects. Therefore, future emphasis should be directed not only towards the general reduction of anthropogenically generated VOC exposures in the outdoor environment but also on the reduction of health-relevant VOCs, especially indoors.
Social and political influences on environmentalism in Australia
Authors: Tranter Bruce
Published: September 2012

Multivariate analyses of national survey data show that social background has an important influence upon environmental attitudes and behaviour in Australia. The tertiary educated consistently adopt a pro-environmental stance across a range of behaviours, including reducing their consumption, initiating lifestyle changes and voting for the Australian Greens. Men are less likely than women to see global warming as a serious threat and less likely to change their behaviour to protect the environment. However, men are far more likely than women to favour nuclear over coal-fired power, even after controlling for a range of other social background effects. While younger people claim they are willing to pay extra taxes or higher prices to reduce global warming, it is older people who are consuming less and changing their lifestyles because of their environmental concerns. A partisan divide over environmental issues and (in)action on climate change is demonstrated empirically, while conservative political leaders are shown to have an influence upon Green voting.
On the mechanism of exhaust gas recirculation valve sticking in diesel engines
Authors: Furukawa N , Goto S , Sunaoka M
Published: September 2012

Research was conducted on a means of responding to the issue of sticking of exhaust gas recirculation valves resulting from the occurrence of high concentrations of hydrocarbons when the exhaust gas recirculation operating range is expanded. The chemical components responsible for the phenomenon were identified, and exhaust gas and deposits were analyzed. From the tendency of deposition and the results of analyses of deposits, it was conjectured that the type of hydrocarbons present, and their dew points, were the major factors in the sticking of exhaust gas recirculation valves. In order to confirm that the dew points of the hydrocarbons were the major factor, tests were conducted to synthesize deposits in a batch furnace. When the hydrocarbons involved in deposit-forming reactions reached their dew points and did liquefy, the chemical reactions were checked. The conditions in which valve sticking occurs in engines were determined to correlate with the dew points of the hydrocarbons in question. The relationship between the dew points of the hydrocarbons and exhaust gas recirculation valve wall temperature was studied, and a method of avoiding valve sticking by applying control to maintain the temperature of the valve walls above the dew points was proposed.
Renal function in a large cohort of metformin treated patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sterner Gunnar , Elmståhl Sölve , Frid Anders
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To survey renal function in a defined population on metformin treatment.

Methods

All patients in the city of Malmö who collected at least three prescriptions of metformin during two years were identified from a central registry at the National Board of Health and Welfare in Sweden. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), from the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) formula, of 5,408 patients were compared with a control population (n=2,815) from the same town. All cases of severe lactic acidosis leading to intensive care unit admission were also sought.

Results

In patients >79 years of age, 38% and 12% of patients had a best recorded eGFR registered below 60 and 45 ml/min/1.73 m2 respectively. In the age group 70–79 years the corresponding figures were 16% and 3% respectively. The eGFR was significantly higher in metformin treated patients than in control subjects in each age group. Three cases of lactic acidosis were recorded during the 2-year period studied. No patient with lactic acidosis was found in the highest age group.

Conclusions

In spite of reduced and fluctuating GFR in elderly patients, treatment with metformin is feasible. Adjusting the dose of metformin to renal function and adequately informing the patient could enable continuous treatment in moderately reduced GFR.
Comparative study on the histomorphology and molecular biology of radial artery conduits in patients with diabetes mellitus who underwent coronary bypass surgery
Authors: Zou Liang , Chen Xujun , Chen Wen , Li Li , Huang Fuhua , Xiang Fei , Chen Xin
Published: September 2012

We studied the impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on the radial artery (RA) in 30 patients with DM and 30 non-diabetic patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting with autologous RA. RAs were recorded as normal if there was no cellular or stromal tissue between the endothelium and the internal elastic lamina. The RA was normal in 26.7% of diabetic and 76.7% of non-diabetic patients ( p = 0.000298). Intimal thickness index and intima:media ratio were higher in the former than in the latter ( p < 0.05; p < 0.05), with no significant difference in luminal narrowing ( p > 0.05). Electron microscopy scores were lower in the non-diabetic group ( p < 0.001); endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein expression and optical density were higher ( p < 0.001). Von Willebrand factor and endothelin-1 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels were higher in the DM patients ( p < 0.001). The quality of the RA in patients with DM was thus inferior to that in non-diabetic patients. Care should be taken when selecting RA as a conduit in patients with DM.
Wikipedia
Authors: Firer-Blaess Sylvain , Fuchs Christian
Published: September 2012

The task of this article is to analyze the political economy of Wikipedia. We discuss the specifics of Wikipedia’s mode of production. The basic principles of what we call the info-communist mode of production will be presented. Our analysis is grounded in Marxist philosophy and Marxist political economy, and is connected to the current discourse about the renewal and reloading of the idea of communism that is undertaken by thinkers like Slavoj Žižek and Alain Badiou. We explore to which extent Wikipedia encompasses principles that go beyond the capitalist mode of production and represent the info-communist mode of production. We present the subjective dimension of the mode of production (cooperative labor), the objective dimension of the mode of production (common ownership of the means of production), and the subject–object dimension of the mode of production (the effects and products of the mode of production).
Preface to the Special Issue on Exploring Cognitive Readiness in Complex Operational Environments
Authors: Mason Patrick A. , McQuade Jill S.
Published: September 2012

The capabilities enabled by cognitive readiness underlie successful human performance in any complex environment. Cognitive readiness can be viewed as encompassing individuals’ inherent traits, their training and experience, and their current dynamic state. Because of this, collaboration across the physiological and cognitive research communities is critical. Incorporating the latest advances in cognitive readiness research that are documented in this three-part special issue into the design, development, deployment, selection, and training of human-machine systems will enable the operational community to enhance human performance and effectiveness.
Numerical analysis in field emission characteristics of carbon nanotube field emitters and arrays
Authors: Liu Chang , Zheng Yu , Ding Guifu , Wu Jing , Zang Faheng
Published: September 2012

In this study, the field emission characteristics of carbon nanotube field emitters and arrays fabricated by carbon nanotube implantation process are analyzed by the combination of the finite-difference time-domain and particle-in-cell methods. Carbon nanotubes with different shapes are simulated and their electron trajectory properties are compared. A spacing optimized carbon nanotube field emission array is developed and the impact of random distribution in carbon nanotube length and tilt angle is also investigated. These results are useful to develop an optimized carbon nanotube field emission array that fits current fabrication capabilities.
Ai Weiwei, Oscar Wilde, and the Art of Posing
Authors: Wan Marco
Published: September 2012

In April 2011, the Chinese artist Ai Weiwei was arrested at the airport in Beijing. To mark the first-year anniversary of his arrest, the artist decided to turn his own life into a form of performance art by installing cameras in his studio; in doing so he both reassures his supporters of his safety and allows the Chinese authorities to monitor his movements. This article examines Ai’s encounters with the government and the law by juxtaposing his experience with that of another controversial figure in art history, Oscar Wilde. It demonstrates the parallels between the two figures, in particular their use of the act of posing as a mode of subversion and resistance. It asks whether Wilde’s experience in the late-Victorian period can shed any light on Ai’s controversies in our own time.
Transdermal patches: the emerging mode of drug delivery system in psychiatry
Authors: Isaac Miriam , Holvey Carl
Published: September 2012

Adherence to prescribed psychiatric and nonpsychiatric medication is a serious issue in people with mental illness that can contribute to poor health outcomes. Some of the factors influencing adherence include side effects of medication and the ease of use. With mental healthcare provision increasingly focusing on a community model of health delivery, there seems to be a renewed interest in addressing complex dilemmas of safety and adherence to treatment. The use of alternative methods of safely delivering medication in innovative ways may resolve some of these difficulties. There has been little discussion about the wider use of transdermal patches in the field of psychiatry in published literature. This article describes the findings from the literature on key principles underlying transdermal delivery strategies, the scope of clinical use in psychiatric illness and explores its challenges and advantages.
Chitosan/heparin surface modified polyacrylic acid grafted polyurethane film by two step plasma treatment
Authors: Ayati Najafabadi S A , Keshvari H , Ganji Y , Tahriri M , Ashuri M
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study is to design an artificial skin dress. A multilayer skin dressing included synthesised castor oil based polyurethane (PU) as the outer layer and two biopolymeric layers of heparin and chitosan as the inner layers were prepared. The surface of PU film was activated using two steps oxygen radio frequency plasma treatment. The surface of the modified PU films characterised by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and water drop contact angle measurements. Scanning electron microscopy observations confirmed the presence of grafted poly acrylic acid on the surface of PU films. Also, heparin and chitosan were immobilised on PU films. In vitro cell culture showed that the samples have an excellent biocompatibility with L929 fibroblast cells. Cell adhesion and proliferation of cells on the chitosan/heparin immobilised surfaces showed better behaviours compared with poly (acrylic acid) grafted PU film.
IFNγR signaling mediates alloreactive T-cell trafficking and GVHD
Authors: Choi Jaebok , Ziga Edward D. , Ritchey Julie , Collins Lynne , Prior Julie L. , Cooper Matthew L. , Piwnica-Worms David , DiPersio John F.
Published: September 2012

The clinical goal of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is to minimize GVHD while maintaining GvL. Here, we show that interferon γ receptor-deficient (IFNγR−/−) allogeneic Tconv, which possess normal alloreactivity and cytotoxicity, induce significantly less GVHD than wild-type (WT) Tconv. This effect is mediated by altered trafficking of IFNγR−/− Tconv to GVHD target organs, especially the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We show that the chemokine receptor CXCR3 is induced via IFNγR-mediated signaling and partially contributes to the trafficking of WT Tconv to GVHD target organs. Indeed, CXCR3−/− Tconv recapitulate the reduced GVHD potential of IFNγR−/− Tconv in a minor-mismatched GVHD model. Most importantly, IFNγR−/− (and CXCR3−/−) Tconv mediate a robust and beneficial GvL effect. In addition, we show that IFNγR−/− regulatory T cells (Tregs) are fully suppressive in vitro although defective in suppressor function in vivo and that WT Tregs suppress GVHD in vivo only when allogeneic Tconv produce interferon γ (IFNγ), suggesting that the IFNγR signaling pathway is the major mechanism for both Tregs and Tconv to migrate to GVHD target organs. Finally, pharmacologic inhibition of IFNγR signaling with inhibitors of JAK1/JAK2, which are mediators of IFNγR signaling, results in the decreased expression of CXCR3 and reduced GVHD and improved survival after allo-HSCT and this effect is mediated by altered trafficking of Tconv to GVHD target organs.
TAK1 kinase signaling regulates embryonic angiogenesis by modulating endothelial cell survival and migration
Authors: Morioka Sho , Inagaki Maiko , Komatsu Yoshihiro , Mishina Yuji , Matsumoto Kunihiro , Ninomiya-Tsuji Jun
Published: September 2012

TGF-β activated kinase 1 (TAK1) is a mediator of various cytokine signaling pathways. Germline deficiency of Tak1 causes multiple abnormalities, including dilated blood vessels at midgestation. However, the mechanisms by which TAK1 regulates vessel formation have not been elucidated. TAK1 binding proteins 1 and 2 (TAB1 and TAB2) are activators of TAK1, but their roles in embryonic TAK1 signaling have not been determined. In the present study, we characterized mouse embryos harboring endothelial-specific deletions of Tak1, Tab1, or Tab2 and found that endothelial TAK1 and TAB2, but not TAB1, were critically involved in vascular formation. TAK1 deficiency in endothelial cells caused increased cell death and vessel regression at embryonic day 10.5 (E10.5). Deletion of TNF signaling largely rescued endothelial cell death in TAK1-deficient embryos at E10.5. However, embryos deficient in both TAK1 and TNF signaling still exhibited dilated capillary networks at E12.5. TAB2 deficiency caused reduced TAK1 activity, resulting in abnormal capillary blood vessels, similar to the compound deficiency of TAK1 and TNF signaling. Ablation of either TAK1 or TAB2 impaired cell migration and tube formation. Our results show that endothelial TAK1 signaling is important for 2 biologic processes in angiogenesis: inhibiting TNF-dependent endothelial cell death and promoting TNF-independent angiogenic cell migration.
Excess F-actin mechanically impedes mitosis leading to cytokinesis failure in X-linked neutropenia by exceeding Aurora B kinase error correction capacity
Authors: Moulding Dale A. , Moeendarbary Emad , Valon Leo , Record Julien , Charras Guillaume T. , Thrasher Adrian J.
Published: September 2012

The constitutively active mutant of the Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome protein (CA-WASp) is the cause of X-linked neutropenia and is linked with genomic instability and myelodysplasia. CA-WASp generates abnormally high levels of cytoplasmic F-actin through dysregulated activation of the Arp2/3 complex leading to defects in cell division. As WASp has no reported role in cell division, we hypothesized that alteration of cell mechanics because of increased F-actin may indirectly disrupt dynamic events during mitosis. Inhibition of the Arp2/3 complex revealed that excess cytoplasmic F-actin caused increased cellular viscosity, slowed all phases of mitosis, and perturbed mitotic mechanics. Comparison of chromosome velocity to the cytoplasmic viscosity revealed that cells compensated for increased viscosity by up-regulating force applied to chromosomes and increased the density of microtubules at kinetochores. Mitotic abnormalities were because of overload of the aurora signaling pathway as subcritical inhibition of Aurora in CA-WASp cells caused increased cytokinesis failure, while overexpression reduced defects. These findings demonstrate that changes in cell mechanics can cause significant mitotic abnormalities leading to genomic instability, and highlight the importance of mechanical sensors such as Aurora B in maintaining the fidelity of hematopoietic cell division.
Prothrombin activation in blood coagulation: the erythrocyte contribution to thrombin generation
Authors: Whelihan Matthew F. , Zachary Vicentios , Orfeo Thomas , Mann Kenneth G.
Published: September 2012

Prothrombin activation can proceed through the intermediates meizothrombin or prethrombin-2. To assess the contributions that these 2 intermediates make to prothrombin activation in tissue factor (Tf)–activated blood, immunoassays were developed that measure the meizothrombin antithrombin (mTAT) and α-thrombin antithrombin (αTAT) complexes. We determined that Tf-activated blood produced both αTAT and mTAT. The presence of mTAT suggested that nonplatelet surfaces were contributing to approximately 35% of prothrombin activation. Corn trypsin inhibitor–treated blood was fractionated to yield red blood cells (RBCs), platelet-rich plasma (PRP), platelet-poor plasma (PPP), and buffy coat. Compared with blood, PRP reconstituted with PPP to a physiologic platelet concentration showed a 2-fold prolongation in the initiation phase and a marked decrease in the rate and extent of αTAT formation. Only the addition of RBCs to PRP was capable of normalizing αTAT generation. FACS on glycophorin A–positive cells showed that approximately 0.6% of the RBC population expresses phosphatidylserine and binds prothrombinase (FITC Xa·factor Va). These data indicate that RBCs participate in thrombin generation in Tf-activated blood, producing a membrane that supports prothrombin activation through the meizothrombin pathway.
IL-36 signaling amplifies Th1 responses by enhancing proliferation and Th1 polarization of naive CD4+ T cells
Authors: Vigne Solenne , Palmer Gaby , Martin Praxedis , Lamacchia Céline , Strebel Deborah , Rodriguez Emiliana , Olleros Maria L. , Vesin Dominique , Garcia Irene , Ronchi Francesca , Sallusto Federica , Sims John E. , Gabay Cem
Published: September 2012

The interleukin-1 (IL-1) superfamily of cytokines comprises a set of pivotal mediators of inflammation. Among them, the action of IL-36 cytokines in immune responses has remained elusive. In a recent study, we demonstrated a direct effect of IL-36 on immune cells. Here we show that, among T cells, the IL-36 receptor is predominantly expressed on naive CD4+ T cells and that IL-36 cytokines act directly on naive T cells by enhancing both cell proliferation and IL-2 secretion. IL-36β acts in synergy with IL-12 to promote Th1 polarization and IL-36 signaling is also involved in mediating Th1 immune responses to Bacillus Calmette-Guerin infection in vivo. Our findings point toward a critical function of IL-36 in the priming of Th1 cell responses in vitro, and in adaptive immunity in a model of mycobacterial infection in vivo.
Inhibition of polyphosphate as a novel strategy for preventing thrombosis and inflammation
Authors: Smith Stephanie A. , Choi Sharon H. , Collins Julie N. R. , Travers Richard J. , Cooley Brian C. , Morrissey James H.
Published: September 2012

Inorganic polyphosphates are linear polymers of orthophosphate that modulate blood clotting and inflammation. Polyphosphate accumulates in infectious microorganisms and is secreted by activated platelets; long-chain polyphosphate in particular is an extremely potent initiator of the contact pathway, a limb of the clotting cascade important for thrombosis but dispensable for hemostasis. Polyphosphate inhibitors therefore might act as novel antithrombotic/anti-inflammatory agents with reduced bleeding side effects. Antipolyphosphate antibodies are unlikely because of polyphosphate's ubiquity and simple structure; and although phosphatases such as alkaline phosphatase can digest polyphosphate, they take time and may degrade other biologically active molecules. We now identify a panel of polyphosphate inhibitors, including cationic proteins, polymers, and small molecules, and report their effectiveness in vitro and in vivo. We also compare their effectiveness against the procoagulant activity of RNA. Polyphosphate inhibitors were antithrombotic in mouse models of venous and arterial thrombosis and blocked the inflammatory effect of polyphosphate injected intradermally in mice. This study provides proof of principle for polyphosphate inhibitors as antithrombotic/anti-inflammatory agents in vitro and in vivo, with a novel mode of action compared with conventional anticoagulants.
A tissue-specific chromatin loop activates the erythroid ankyrin-1 promoter
Authors: Yocum Ashley O. , Steiner Laurie A. , Seidel Nancy E. , Cline Amanda P. , Rout Emily D. , Lin Jolinta Y. , Wong Clara , Garrett Lisa J. , Gallagher Patrick G. , Bodine David M.
Published: September 2012

The human ankyrin-1 gene (ANK1) contains 3 tissue-specific alternative promoters. We have shown previously that the erythroid-specific ankyrin 1 (ANK1E) core promoter contains a 5′ DNase I hypersensitive site (HS) with barrier insulator function that prevents gene silencing in vitro and in vivo. Mutations in the ANK1E barrier region lead to decreased ANK1 mRNA levels and hereditary spherocytosis. In this report, we demonstrate a second ANK1E regulatory element located in an adjacent pair of DNase I HS located 5.6 kb 3′ of the ANK1E promoter at the 3′ boundary of an erythroid-specific DNase I–sensitive chromatin domain. The 3′ regulatory element exhibits enhancer activity in vitro and in transgenic mice, and it has the histone modifications associated with an enhancer element. One of the ANK1E 3′HS contains an NF-E2 binding site that is required for enhancer function. We show that a chromatin loop brings the 3′ enhancer and NF-E2 into proximity with the 5′ barrier region including the ANK1E core promoter. These observations demonstrate a model for the tissue-specific activation of alternative promoters that may be applicable to the ∼ 30% of mammalian genes with alternative promoters that exhibit distinct expression patterns.