bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variance-constrained control of maneuvering helicopters with sensor failure
Authors: Oktay Tugrul , Sultan Cornel
Published: October 2012

This article presents the novel results obtained using variance-constrained controllers and maneuvering helicopters also when some helicopter sensors fail. For this purpose, complex, control oriented, and physics-based helicopter models are used. A nonlinear model of the helicopter, which includes blade flexibility, is first linearized around specific maneuvering flight conditions (i.e. level banked turn and helical turn). The resulting linearized models are used for the design of variance-constrained controllers (i.e. output and input variance-constrained controllers). Then, the robustness of the closed-loop systems with respect to modeling uncertainties (i.e. flight conditions and helicopter inertial parameters variations) is studied. Next, variance-constrained controllers are designed for these maneuvering helicopter models when some helicopter sensors fail. Several sensor failure cases are examined and robustness properties of the closed-loop systems with respect to modeling uncertainties are also examined. Limitations of the control design process due to the number and type of failed sensors are investigated as well. Finally, the possibility to adaptively switch between controllers in order to mitigate sensor failure is studied.
Experimental validation of numerically predicted strain and micromotion in intact and implanted composite hemi-pelvises
Authors: Ghosh Rajesh , Gupta Sanjay , Dickinson Alexander , Browne Martin
Published: October 2012

The failure mechanisms of acetabular prostheses may be investigated by understanding the changes in load transfer due to implantation and using the analysis of the implant–bone micromotion. Computational finite element (FE) models allow detailed mechanical analysis of the implant–bone structure, but their validity must be assessed as a first step, before they can be employed in preclinical investigations. In this study, FE models of composite hemi-pelvises, intact and implanted with an acetabular cup, were experimentally validated. Strains and implant–bone micromotions in the hemi-pelvises were compared with those predicted by the equivalent FE models. Regression analysis indicated close agreement between the measured and FE strains, with a high correlation coefficient (0.95–0.98), a low standard error (SE) (36–53 µε) and a low error in regression slope (7%–11%). Measured micromotions along three orthogonal directions were small, less than 30 µm, whereas the FE-predicted values were found to be less than 85 µm. Although the trends were similar, the deviations are due to artefacts in experimental measurement and additional imperfections in recreating experimental loading and boundary conditions in the FE model. This supports the FE model as a valid predictor of the measured strain in the composite pelvis models, confirming its suitability for further computational investigations on acetabular prostheses.
A finite element investigation on plaque vulnerability in realistic healthy and atherosclerotic human coronary arteries
Authors: Karimi Alireza , Navidbakhsh Mahdi , Faghihi Shahab , Shojaei Ahmad , Hassani Kamran
Published: October 2012

Atherosclerosis is the most common arterial disease. It has been shown that stresses that are induced during blood circulation can cause plaque rupture and, in turn, lead to thrombosis and stroke. In this study, finite element method is used to predict plaque vulnerability based on peak plaque stress using human samples. A total of 23 healthy and atherosclerotic human coronary arteries of 14 healthy and 9 atherosclerotic patients are excised within 5 h postmortem. The samples are mounted on an uniaxial tensile test machine, and the obtained mechanical properties are used in two-dimensional and three-dimensional finite element models. The results including the Neo–Hookean hyperelastic coefficients of the samples as well as peak plaque stresses are analyzed. The results indicate that the atherosclerotic human coronary arteries have significantly ( p < 0.05) higher stiffness compared with the healthy ones. The hypocellular plaque also has the highest stress values and, as a result, is most likely (vulnerable) to rupture, while the calcified type has the lowest stress values and, consequently, is expected to remain stable. The results could be used in the plaque vulnerability anticipation and have clinical implications in interventions and surgeries, including balloon angioplasty, bypass, and stenting.
Characterization of 5C11-positive activated interferon-producing cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ohshima M , Kanda H , Kubo K , Yonezumi-Hayashi A , Tateishi S , Yamamoto K
Published: October 2012

Objective

5C11 antibody is a novel monoclonal antibody against human BST2 and can be used to detect activation of interferon-producing cells (IPCs). Activated IPCs, which produce large amounts of interferon-α (IFNα), are considered to play an important role in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We investigated the characterization of 5C11-positive cells in patients with SLE.

Methods

The proportions of 5C11-positive cells among blood dendritic cell antigen 2 (BDCA-2)-, CD3-, CD19- and CD14-positive cells in peripheral blood from SLE patients (SLE-PBMCs) and healthy controls (control-PBMCs) were analyzed by flow cytometry. The effect of 5C11 antibody on IFNα production from SLE-PBMCs under stimulation with cytosine-phosphate-guanosine (CpG2216, bacterial oligonucleotide motif) was also examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The proportions of 5C11-positive cells among BDCA-2-, CD3- and CD19-, but not CD14-positive cells in SLE-PBMCs were significantly increased compared to those in control-PBMCs ( p < 0.0001, all). Especially, the number of 5C11-positive cells among BDCA-2-positive cells was significantly increased in SLE-PBMCs by about six-fold compared to that in control-PBMCs ( p < 0.0001). 5C11 antibody inhibited IFNα production by SLE-PBMCs induced by CpG and the inhibition rates was 27% ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion

SLE patients had a significantly higher proportion of 5C11-positive cells among CD3 and CD19 cells, and especially BDCA-2 positive cells. The ability of 5C11 antibody to inhibit IFNα production from SLE-PBMCs warrants further investigation for its possible clinical application for the treatment of SLE.
Designing an intervention for women with systemic lupus erythematosus from medically underserved areas to improve care: a qualitative study
Authors: Feldman CH , Bermas BL , Zibit M , Fraser P , Todd DJ , Fortin PR , Massarotti E , Costenbader KH
Published: October 2012

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus) disproportionately affects women, racial/ethnic minorities and low-income populations. We held focus groups for women from medically underserved communities to discuss interventions to improve care.

Methods

From our Lupus Registry, we invited 282 women, ≥18 years, residing in urban, medically underserved areas. Hospital-based clinics and support groups also recruited participants. Women were randomly assigned to three focus groups. Seventy-five-minute sessions were recorded, transcribed and coded thematically using interpretative phenomenologic analysis and single counting methods. We categorized interventions by benefits, limitations, target populations and implementation questions.

Results

Twenty-nine women with lupus participated in three focus groups, ( n = 9, 9, 11). 80% were African American and 83% were from medically underserved zip codes. Themes included the desire for lupus education, isolation at the time of diagnosis, emotional and physical barriers to care, and the need for assistance navigating the healthcare system. Twenty of 29 participants (69%) favored a peer support intervention; 17 (59%) also supported a lupus health passport. Newly diagnosed women were optimal intervention targets. Improvements in quality of life and mental health were proposed outcome measures.

Conclusion

Women with lupus from medically underserved areas have unique needs best addressed with an intervention designed through collaboration between community members and researchers.
Risk, communication and trust: Towards an emotional understanding of trust
Authors: Engdahl Emma , Lidskog Rolf
Published: October 2012

Current discussions on public trust, as well as on risk communication, have a restricted rationalistic bias in which the cognitive-reflexive aspect of trust is emphasized at the expense of its emotional aspect. This article contributes to a substantive theory of trust by exploring its emotional character. Drawing on recent discussions in science and technology studies, social psychology, and general social theory, it argues that trust is a modality of action that is relational, emotional, asymmetrical, and anticipatory. Hence, trust does not develop through information and the uptake of knowledge but through emotional involvement and sense-making. The implications of this conception of trust for public understandings of science and for risk communication are discussed.
Design and implementation of a portable amagnetic shape memory rotary actuator
Authors: Viscuso Stefano , Pittaccio Simone
Published: October 2012

Actuators based on standard technologies often do not comply with environmental constraints on electromagnetic noise. Even though shape memory actuators are not ferromagnetic, activation by Joule’s effect poses a question about magnetic compatibility. This article presents a new concept design of a rotary actuator based on a double coil of NiTi wire, which permits to abate dramatically the electromagnetic fields generated. A particular implementation of the idea was devised as a case study to investigate feasibility. The desired torque and stroke were 83 N cm and 40°, respectively, and mechanical tests confirmed that a maximal stroke of 38° can be achieved for resisting torques ranging from 33 to 122 N cm. The built prototype proved appropriate to respond to the needs of a neuroscience study requiring mobilization of the ankle. So, this device was tested during measurement of brain activity in healthy subjects with both magnetoencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging, that is, diagnostic equipment with very demanding constraints on electromagnetic noise. Neither magnetoencephalography signals nor the functional magnetic resonance imaging images were affected by any electromagnetic noise or artifacts, allowing for further analysis and extraction of neurological features. Besides the discussed uses, this type of actuator could find an application in several fields, such as biomedical, robotic, aerospace, or automotive.
Once Is Not Enough
Authors: Buranosky Raquel , Hess Rachel , McNeil Melissa A. , Aiken Allison M. , Chang Judy C.
Published: October 2012

Training in intimate partner violence (IPV) improves health professionals’ knowledge and comfort regarding IPV; the optimal training frequency and format is unknown. We assessed how various types and amounts of IPV education for medical students affected knowledge and attitudes. Medical students at a large, urban university completed a survey concerning IPV-related knowledge and attitudes and participation in didactic and experiential IPV training activities. This was a one-time assessment. Of 586 students, 279 (48%) completed the survey. IPV-related knowledge increased with increased number of training activities. Knowledge and attitude scores were higher ( p < .001) for respondents with experiential, versus only didactic, activities.
Sex Differences in Attentional Performance in a Clinical Sample With ADHD of the Combined Subtype
Authors: Günther Thomas , Knospe Eva Lotte , Herpertz-Dahlmann Beate , Konrad Kerstin
Published: October 2012

Objective: The goal of the present study was to assess whether girls with ADHD express similar deficits in various attention tasks to those described in boys. Method: A total of 175 children with the combined subtype of ADHD (89 females) and 132 normal controls (60 females) aged 8 to 14 years participated. Five different tests were conducted: alertness, sustained attention, focused attention, divided attention, and a set-shifting task. Results: The children with ADHD performed worse on all aspects of attention compared with healthy control participants. Several overall general sex differences could be detected, with boys exhibiting faster reaction times and greater response variability. Controlling for ADHD symptom severity and psychiatric comorbidities, no Sex × Diagnosis interaction was found, suggesting that males and females with ADHD experience comparable attentional deficits. Conclusion: These results indicate that deficits in various attentional domains are a robust component of ADHD in males and females.
Carotid artery pseudoaneurysm in a cat
Authors: Townsell Marlene Y , Biller David S , Grauer Gregory F
Published: October 2012

Clinical summary:

A 4-month-old female intact domestic shorthair cat presented to Kansas State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for investigation of a large, firmly adhered mass in the left mid-cervical region that developed after phlebotomy performed at the referring veterinarian’s clinic. Ultrasound examination of the mass revealed a cystic structure in communication with the left carotid artery, with bidirectional blood flow through the area. A diagnosis of pseudoaneurysm secondary to accidental needle penetration of the carotid artery during jugular venepuncture was made.

Outcome:

Strict cage rest and pain management resulted in complete resolution of clinical and ultrasonographic signs in this cat.
Feline acute Kidney injury
Authors: Monaghan Kelly , Nolan Benjamin , Labato Mary
Published: October 2012

Practical relevance:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequently recognized disease process in cats that requires immediate and aggressive intervention. A thorough understanding of the pathophysiologic processes underlying AKI and familiarity with the most common etiologies are essential for providing the most effective and timely therapy. Possessing this knowledge will also allow a more accurate prognosis to be given, and afford the best chance of a favorable outcome.

Clinical challenges:

Feline patients often present with vague signs of AKI, which may delay treatment and adversely affect the prognosis. Their response to injury and treatment is often different to that of other species.

Audience:

This two-part review article is directed at small animal practitioners as well as specialists. Part 1 reviews mechanisms underlying AKI in the cat, as well as etiologies and treatments related to some specific causes of AKI.

Evidence base:

The veterinary literature is limited with regards to the pathophysiology of AKI unique to the cat. However, there are numerous feline studies evaluating causes of AKI.
Feline acute kidney injury
Authors: Monaghan Kelly , Nolan Benjamin , Labato Mary
Published: October 2012

Practical relevance:

Feline acute kidney injury (AKI) is a commonly recognized problem in small animal practice that requires prompt diagnosis and directed therapy. There are many treatment methods with which practitioners should be familiar, including medical options, surgical interventions and renal replacement therapy (dialysis). It is important to know which option is most appropriate for each cause and stage of AKI to deliver the most effective therapy.

Clinical challenges:

AKI can cause vague clinical signs, but a vast array of life-threatening sequelae. Rapid recognition of potential complications and knowledge of treatment options is imperative for successful management. Feline patients also require an understanding of their unique physiology as it relates to the therapeutic plan.

Audience:

This two-part review article is directed at small animal practitioners as well as specialists. Part 2 discusses the diagnosis of AKI in cats using physical examination findings, clinicopathologic results and imaging modalities. The treatment of AKI and its sequelae is also reviewed, with information on recent advances in this area.

Evidence base:

While there is very limited data comparing the outcomes of various treatment options, there is literature addressing the use of several medications, as well as renal replacement therapy, in cats.
Stop ‘helping’ me! Identity, recognition and agency in the nexus of work and care
Authors: Tomkins Leah , Eatough Virginia
Published: October 2012

This article explores what it is like to be a ‘working carer’—that increasingly common category of employee who combines paid work with unpaid care.1 We draw on phenomenology for our initial motivation, epistemological assumptions and method of data analysis, and on critical sensemaking as a template for interpretation and theorization. In line with critical sensemaking, we see identity as a central feature of personhood, and we examine our participants’ identity work through the specific refractions of plausibility, context and agency. These highlight the inconsistencies and oscillations of identity work, and the ways in which it is influenced by competing discourses of the right kind of employee and the right kind of woman. We foreground the existential aspects of sensemaking, as participants struggle to come to terms with the impact of care on their own life-projects and search for meaning. This reflects our belief that experiential approaches to work-related issues have a vital part to play in a ‘turn to meaning’ in critical organizational research. Key implications for practitioners and campaigners are discussed, and policy makers urged to address the issue of working carer identification, recognition and support with greater sensitivity to the label’s psychological and existential implications.
Computing hydrodynamic pressure in mixed lubrication by modified Reynolds equation
Authors: Fatu Aurelian , Bonneau Dominique , Fatu Ramona
Published: October 2012

Nowadays, even with the available computing power, complete deterministic solutions of large or dynamically loaded bearings are not possible in acceptable amounts of computing time. Therefore, in order to model mixed lubrication conditions, the Reynolds equation is modified by the introduction of flow factors that take into account the roughness effects. Patir and Cheng proposed the most known model. In their model, flow factors are obtained from the statistical parameters of the surface roughness. The flow factors can also be computed from deterministic calculation on a sample of the studied surface or by using the homogenization technique on the same surface sample. In this article, three approaches are compared. Moreover, the influence of the surface deformation due to asperity contact over the flow factors is investigated.
Frictional and adhesive wear performance of natural fibre reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Bajpai Pramendra K , Singh Inderdeep , Madaan Jitendra
Published: October 2012

The potential of natural fibre reinforcement in the thermoplastic polymer matrix is being explored for enhancing the wear performance of neat polymer. In this study, sliding wear and frictional characteristics of natural fibre reinforced polypropylene thermoplastic composites are being investigated. Three types of natural fibres namely nettle, grewia optiva and sisal fibres have been used in mat form. The composites have been developed using compression moulding method through film stacking. The dry sliding wear test of developed composites is being performed against a steel counterface using pin-on-disc test apparatus under dry sliding condition. The tests have been conducted at different sliding speeds (1–3 m/s), applied loads (10–30 N) and sliding distances (1000–3000 m). Results show that incorporation of different natural fibre mats to polypropylene has improved the wear resistance of neat polymer. Scanning electron microscopic observations show different wear mechanisms such as debonding, cracks, fibre fracture and debris formation.
A validated biomarker panel to identify peripheral artery disease
Authors: Hiatt William R , Zakharyan Armen , Fung Eric T , Crutcher Gillian , Smith Alan , Stanford Chriss , Cooke John
Published: October 2012

Current guidelines recommend obtaining an ankle–brachial index (ABI) to screen for peripheral artery disease (PAD) in subjects at risk. Previous work demonstrated that a combination of β2-microglobulin, cystatin C, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and glucose was associated with PAD. This study evaluated the ability of these biomarkers combined with clinical parameters to predict PAD in at-risk subjects. This study enrolled 1025 subjects from 99 primary care clinics who were smokers and/or diabetics ≥ 50 years or any individual ≥ 70 years. Consented subjects underwent a clinical assessment, fasting blood draw, and an ABI measurement with PAD defined as an ABI < 0.90 in either leg. The biomarkers and their interactions were evaluated using logistic regression and performance was evaluated at a cut point of the biomarker panel selected to maximize sensitivity while minimizing the false positive rate of the test. Of the 1025 subjects enrolled, 46 did not meet the ABI or other criteria for inclusion in the analysis. Among the evaluable subjects ( n = 979), PAD was detected in 83 (8.5%). The model had a C-statistic of 0.73 (95% CI 0.67–0.79). There were 20 patients with PAD who were judged to be at low to moderate risk for cardiovascular events by clinical assessment; the model correctly identified 17 of these 20 patients. The model also performed well in subjects with no prior history of PAD. Thus, a biomarker panel may have a role for identifying PAD.
Validation of a COPD diagnosis from the Swedish Inpatient Registry
Authors: Inghammar Malin , Engström Gunnar , Löfdahl Claes-Göran , Egesten Arne
Published: October 2012

Aims: The Swedish National Inpatient Registry is an important source of data for numerous epidemiological studies, amongst them studies on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). General validation studies indicate that in general 85–95% of diagnoses reported are correct, but this is not true for all groups of diseases, why specific validation studies are of great importance. Methods: Charts from 374 individuals discharged with a COPD diagnosis between 2000–07 from two central hospitals and two university hospitals in the county of Skåne were validated against the original medical files. Criteria for the degree of certainty of the COPD diagnosis were predefined and the association between predictors of diagnostic probability and the level of certainty was assessed using an ordinal logistic regression model. Results: According to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease criteria, 21.7% of the diagnosis were classified as proven COPD, 35.5% were classified as probable, another 34.0% as possible COPD, 2.1% were classified as having an uncertain diagnosis, and 7.0% as an unlikely COPD diagnosis. Age category (adjusted ORs: 60–79 years, 2.6, 95% CI 1.2–5.4; ≥80 years, 1.6, 95% CI 0.7–3.3) and discharge from a non-surgical department (adjusted OR: 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.8) were significantly associated with higher level of diagnostic certainty. Conclusions: A COPD diagnoses from the Swedish Inpatient Registry is of acceptable validity for epidemiological research. The degree of certainty of the diagnosis varies but less than 10% were considered as misclassified or having an uncertain COPD diagnosis.
Sources of Franco-German corporate support for the euro: The effects of business network centrality and political connections
Authors: Jäger Kai
Published: October 2012

During the euro crisis of June 2011, 51 representatives of major French and German corporations launched a political campaign in support of the euro. This study shows that firm size facilitated high-quality business contacts but that variables of economic interest were not associated with a higher probability of campaign participation when controlling for relational variables. Instead, the empirical analysis suggests that Franco-German business leaders joined the campaign because (1) their central network position provided them with informational resources to transcend the interest of their firm, and (2) their social and political embeddedness either led to an internalization of pro-euro values or gave them an incentive to improve their long-term reputation with political decision makers who strongly support the euro as part of the European integration project. Thus, the directors’ corporate and political ties facilitated and motivated corporate political action in support of the euro.
Rights rhetoric or rights realization: Victim empowerment NGOs in South Africa
Authors: Rupcic Sonia
Published: October 2012

Concerns among international donors about aid effectiveness have led to important structural changes in how development assistance is delivered. Drawing its inspiration from rights-based approaches to development, the 2005 Paris Declaration lays out a blueprint for a new aid architecture that directs funds through two channels: 1) budget support for governments to deliver public goods and services; and 2) project awards for advocacy NGOs to promote political reform. Excluded from this aid regime are service-oriented NGOs, which continue to offer services, but are compelled to appeal to local government for funding. This article explores these structural changes and their discursive origins, arguing that new aid policies disadvantage service-oriented NGOs. It presents ethnographic research conducted at the Isipho Victim Empowerment Programme, a South African NGO, to illustrate how new aid policy has important consequences for the quality of social services and local governance.
Changes in microRNAs associated with podocytic adhesion damage under mechanical stress
Authors: Li Dong , Lu Zhenyu , Jia Junya , Zheng Zhenfeng , Lin Shan
Published: October 2012

Introduction:

Podocytes can respond to various injuries, including mechanical stress secondary to diabetic nephropathy (DN), which may cause deleterious adhesive effects on podocytes. Integrin α3β1 is the major podocyte adhesion molecule. In this study, we aim to investigate α3β1 expression and identify differentially expressed microRNAs in podocytes under mechanical stress compared with normal cells and podocytes under mechanical stress treated with spironolactone, respectively.

Materials and methods:

Serum and glucocorticoid induced kinase 1 (SGK1), mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and integrin α3β1 were detected by Western blotting. The miRNA analyses were performed by TaqMan MicroRNA Array v2.0. Genes Itga3 and Itgb1 were analyzed for miRNA binding sites within 3’UTRs using TargetScan and PicTar.

Results:

Protein SGK1 and MR expression were significantly increased under mechanical stress and decreased after spironolactone treatment. Podocyte α3 and β1 expression were significantly decreased under mechanical stress and increased after spironolactone treatment. MiR-124, miR-190, miR-217 and miR-188 were the overlapped miRNAs that were upregulated under mechanical stress and downregulated after spironolactone treatment. MiR-124 was found to be a predicted miRNA target site in both Itga3 and Itgb1 3’UTRs.

Conclusion:

These results provide a novel idea that miR-124 might play an important role in podocytic adhesion damage under mechanical stress.
Neuropathic pain-attenuating potential of aliskiren in chronic constriction injury model in rats
Authors: Kukkar Ankesh , Singh Nirmal , Jaggi Amteshwar S
Published: October 2012

The present study was designed to investigate the potential of aliskiren, a direct renin inhibitor, in chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain in rats. Neuropathic pain was induced by placing four loose ligatures around the sciatic nerve. Acetone drop, von Frey hair, pin-prick and hot plate tests were performed to assess cold allodynia, mechanical allodynia, mechanical and heat hyperalgesia, respectively. The levels of Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured in the sciatic nerve as an inflammatory marker. CCI was associated with the development of cold allodynia, mechanical allodynia, mechanical and heat hyperalgesia along with a rise in the levels of Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Administration of aliskiren (25 or 50 mg/kg intraperitoneal (i.p.)) for 14 days in CCI-subjected rats significantly attenuated CCI-induced pain-related behavior and rise in TNF-α level. It may be concluded that aliskiren-mediated anti-inflammatory actions may be responsible for its beneficial effects in neuropathic pain in rats.
Blacks, Hispanics, and Whites
Authors: Herron Michael C.
Published: October 2012

This study inquires as to the nature of racial regularities in residual voting that exist under post–Help America Vote Act conditions. Even with modern, optical scan voting machines, there were significant differences among black, Hispanic, and white residual vote rates in the city of Chicago during the Municipal Election of 2011 and the Illinois General Election of 2010. Moreover, these residual vote rates varied with the availability of, respectively, black, Hispanic, and white candidates for office. Hispanics often had the highest residual vote rates among the three major race groups in Chicago, and there were instances in the aforementioned 2011 and 2010 Chicago elections in which a group of voters chose not to vote for anyone rather than vote for a dominant candidate of a different race than the voters themselves. Thus, even holding constant electoral administration and voting technology, the role of race in residual voting remains prominent.
Simulating the integration of photovoltaic technology on the modern infantry soldier using modelling and simulation: scenarios and guidelines
Authors: Paraskevopoulos Ioannis , Tsekleves Emmanuel
Published: October 2012

The operational range and manoeuvrability of the modern infantry soldier is restricted by the overall load and bulk of equipment ranging from 50 to 75 kg. Today’s soldiers rely heavily on batteries to meet their power requirements, which make up 25% of the overall load. This results in a significant increase on soldier’s physical stress and cognitive burden. Recent developments in renewable energy, and more particularly the evolution of very thin and flexible wearable photovoltaic devices, provide promising solutions for the application of such technologies on the infantry soldier. However, since these flexible substrate devices are still under development or produced at a very small scale, their application and use has to be simulated prior to integrating to the infantry soldier. Such simulations need to take into account the specific requirements and different fields of operation of the infantry soldier, in the context of weather, date and time, global location and for different military mission environments. This paper presents a number of simulations performed for a wide range of scenarios in the context of the Solar Soldier project. It discusses the key results, offering a set of guidelines for the positioning and integration of such renewable energy technology on the modern infantry soldier. Moreover, this paper suggests future improvements on the methodology and optimisation of the procedures.
Surgical site infection surveillance: a Scottish perspective (2003–2010)
Authors: Sullivan Christopher , McNeish Jane , Mullings Abigail , Reilly Jacqui
Published: October 2012

Health Protection Scotland facilitates national surveillance of surgical site infection (SSI) in Scotland with all hospitals participating in the SSI programme. For the period January 2003 to December 2010, there were 1883 inpatient SSIs, resulting from 192,007 procedures in the selected surgical categories. The inpatient SSI incidence density rates in Scotland over the duration of the SSI surveillance programme (2003–2010) showed a reduction over the eight years of surveillance for all procedures, with a significant reduction in caesarean section, hip arthroplasty, knee arthroplasty, and open reduction of long bone fracture. For all procedures, the highest proportion of SSIs detected were superficial. Data from Scotland includes information on infections occurring post-discharge from hospitals, which is an increasingly important aspect of monitoring, as length of stay in hospital is reducing over time. The introduction of readmission surveillance until day 30 post-operatively for hip arthroplasty in 2007 and post-discharge surveillance (PDS) to day 10 for caesarean section in 2009 has resulted in a higher proportion of SSIs being detected following discharge from hospital.
Bone-Induced Chondroinduction in Sheep Jamshidi Biopsy Defects with and without Treatment by Subchondral Chitosan-Blood Implant
Authors: Bell Angela D. , Lascau-Coman Viorica , Sun Jun , Chen Gaoping , Lowerison Mark W. , Hurtig Mark B. , Hoemann Caroline D.
Published: October 2012

Objective:

Delivery of chitosan to subchondral bone is a novel approach for augmented marrow stimulation. We evaluated the effect of 3 presolidified chitosan-blood implant formulations on osteochondral repair progression compared with untreated defects.

Design:

In N = 5 adult sheep, six 2-mm diameter Jamshidi biopsy holes were created bilaterally in the medial femoral condyle and treated with presolidified chitosan-blood implant with fluorescent chitosan tracer (10 kDa, 40 kDa, or 150k Da chitosan, left knee) or left to bleed (untreated, right knee). Implant residency and osteochondral repair were assessed at 1 day ( N = 1), 3 weeks ( N = 2), or 3 months ( N = 2) postoperative using fluorescence microscopy, histomorphometry, stereology, and micro–computed tomography.

Results:

Chitosan implants were retained in 89% of treated Jamshidi holes up to 3 weeks postoperative. At 3 weeks, biopsy sites were variably covered by cartilage flow, and most bone holes contained cartilage flow fragments and heterogeneous granulation tissues with sparse leukocytes, stromal cells, and occasional adipocytes (volume density 1% to 3%). After 3 months of repair, most Jamshidi bone holes were deeper, remodeling at the edges, filled with angiogenic granulation tissue, and lined with variably sized chondrogenic foci fused to bone trabeculae or actively repairing bone plate. The 150-kDa chitosan implant elicited more subchondral cartilage formation compared with 40-kDa chitosan-treated and control defects ( P < 0.05, N = 4). Treated defects contained more mineralized repair tissue than control defects at 3 months ( P < 0.05, N = 12).

Conclusion:

Bone plate–induced chondroinduction is an articular cartilage repair mechanism. Jamshidi biopsy repair takes longer than 3 months and can be influenced by subchondral chitosan-blood implant.
Clofarabine in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia in older adults
Authors: Tiley Stephen , Claxton David
Published: October 2012

Objective:

To review the literature evaluating the efficacy and tolerability of clofarabine as a single agent and in combination therapy for older patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Method:

A literature search of the PubMed database (1996–April 2012) using the search terms clofarabine and acute myeloid leukemia was performed. All relevant English language articles were reviewed. Clinical trials with patients aged 50 years or older diagnosed with AML were included.

Results:

Two studies evaluating clofarabine as monotherapy and five studies evaluating clofarabine in combination with cytarabine were reviewed. Clofarabine demonstrated activity in older adults with AML. Response rates and median overall survival (OS) for patients receiving clofarabine were similar to those for patients receiving conventional induction chemotherapy. The induction mortality rate with clofarabine was lower than that seen with intensive chemotherapy. However, clofarabine was associated with a significant risk of severe complications including myelosuppression and sepsis.

Conclusion:

Clofarabine is an active agent for the treatment of older patients with AML as a single agent or in combination therapy. Based on published data and side-effect profiles, clofarabine may be an appropriate alternative to intensive chemotherapy for older patients with AML, offering similar response rates to traditional 7+3 chemotherapy with potentially decreased induction mortality. The use of clofarabine in combination with newer agents including DNA methyltransferase inhibitors like decitabine is a promising approach for older patients who are not eligible for intensive chemotherapy. Additional randomized controlled trials are needed to directly compare the efficacy of clofarabine as a single agent and in combination therapy compared with intensive chemotherapy regimens.
How perceptions of fairness can change
Authors: Jones David A. , Skarlicki Daniel P.
Published: October 2012

Research on organizational justice has focused almost exclusively on fairness at one point in time. This perspective severely limits our understanding because fairness perceptions can continually evolve as individuals encounter new information. We present a dynamic model of organizational justice in which we integrate current justice theories with research on sense-making and social cognition to describe the processes through which perceptions of fairness change. The model describes a cyclical process whereby individuals' cognitive processing and judgments about the fairness of an event are guided by their perceptions about the entity involved. In turn, event judgments alter the knowledge structure that underlies entity perceptions, which has implications for perception change. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Effects of salt stress on ion balance and nitrogen metabolism of old and young leaves in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Wang Huan , Zhang Meishan , Guo Rui , Shi Decheng , Liu Bao , Lin Xiuyun , Yang Chunwu
Published: October 2012

Background

It is well known that salt stress has different effects on old and young tissues. However, it remains largely unexplored whether old and young tissues have different regulatory mechanism during adaptation of plants to salt stress. The aim of this study was to investigate whether salt stress has different effects on the ion balance and nitrogen metabolism in the old and young leaves of rice, and to compare functions of both organs in rice salt tolerance.

Results

Rice protected young leaves from ion harm via the large accumulation of Na+and Cl−in old leaves. The up-regulation ofOsHKT1;1,OsHAK10andOsHAK16might contribute to accumulation of Na+in old leaves under salt stress. In addition, lower expression ofOsHKT1;5andOsSOS1in old leaves may decrease frequency of retrieving Na+from old leaf cells. Under salt stress, old leaves showed higher concentration of NO3−content than young leaves. Up-regulation ofOsNRT1;2, a gene coding nitrate transporter, might contribute to the accumulation of NO3−in the old leaves of salt stressed-rice. Salt stress clearly up-regulated the expression ofOsGDH2andOsGDH3in old leaves, while strongly down-regulated expression ofOsGS2andOsFd-GOGATin old leaves.

Conclusions

The down-regulation ofOsGS2andOsFd-GOGATin old leaves might be a harmful response to excesses of Na+and Cl−. Under salt stress, rice might accumulate Na+and Cl−to toxic levels in old leaves. This might influence photorespiration process, reduce NH4+production from photorespiration, and immediately down-regulate the expression ofOsGS2andOsFd-GOGATin old leaves of salt stressed rice. Excesses of Na+and Cl−also might change the pathway of NH4+assimilation in old leaves of salt stressed rice plants, weaken GOGAT/GS pathway and elevate GDH pathway.
Tenotomy versus Tenodesis in the treatment of the long head of biceps brachii tendon lesions
Authors: Galasso Olimpio , Gasparini Giorgio , De Benedetto Massimo , Familiari Filippo , Castricini Roberto
Published: October 2012

Background

The superiority of tenotomy vs. tenodesis for surgery on lesions of the long head of the biceps brachii tendon is still under debate. Indeed, high-quality evidence is lacking, mainly because of methodological problems, such as retrospective design, population sample size or lack of patient randomization.

Methods/Design

The study will be a two-center, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial to compare patients treated with biceps tenotomy or tenodesis for lesions of the long head of the biceps brachii tendon over a 2-year follow-up period. The study participants will be 128 adults with biceps brachii tendinopathy and supraspinatus tendon tears. The primary end point will be the postoperative difference in the Constant-Murley score (CMS) between the 2 groups at the two-year follow-up. A comparison of the mean improvement with standard age- and gender-related CMS will be performed. The secondary end point will be evaluation of the postoperative general health of patients, as evaluated with Short Form 36 (SF-36) scores. The number and severity of complications associated with use of the different surgical techniques will be assessed.

Discussion

This study will be the first randomized and appropriately powered clinical trial to directly compare tenotomy and biceps tenodesis. The results of this study will help to establish clinical practice guidelines for patients suffering from lesions of the long head of the biceps brachii tendon, providing important information to patients and health care providers about the possible complications, outcome predictors and effectiveness of the targeted interventions.

Trial Registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN38839558
Cloning, sequence analysis, expression of Cyathus bulleri laccase in Pichia pastoris and characterization of recombinant laccase
Authors: Garg Neha , Bieler Nora , Kenzom Tenzin , Chhabra Meenu , Ansorge-Schumacher Marion , Mishra Saroj
Published: October 2012

Background

Laccases are blue multi-copper oxidases and catalyze the oxidation of phenolic and non-phenolic compounds. There is considerable interest in using these enzymes for dye degradation as well as for synthesis of aromatic compounds. Laccases are produced at relatively low levels and, sometimes, as isozymes in the native fungi. The investigation of properties of individual enzymes therefore becomes difficult. The goal of this study was to over-produce a previously reported laccase from Cyathus bulleri using the well-established expression system of Pichia pastoris and examine and compare the properties of the recombinant enzyme with that of the native laccase.

Results

In this study, complete cDNA encoding laccase (Lac) from white rot fungus Cyathus bulleri was amplified by RACE-PCR, cloned and expressed in the culture supernatant of Pichia pastoris under the control of the alcohol oxidase (AOX)1 promoter. The coding region consisted of 1,542 bp and encodes a protein of 513 amino acids with a signal peptide of 16 amino acids. The deduced amino acid sequence of the matured protein displayed high homology with laccases from Trametes versicolor and Coprinus cinereus. The sequence analysis indicated the presence of Glu 460 and Ser 113 and LEL tripeptide at the position known to influence redox potential of laccases placing this enzyme as a high redox enzyme. Addition of copper sulfate to the production medium enhanced the level of laccase by about 12-fold to a final activity of 7200 U L-1. The recombinant laccase (rLac) was purified by ~4-fold to a specific activity of ~85 U mg-1 protein. A detailed study of thermostability, chloride and solvent tolerance of the rLac indicated improvement in the first two properties when compared to the native laccase (nLac). Altered glycosylation pattern, identified by peptide mass finger printing, was proposed to contribute to altered properties of the rLac.

Conclusion

Laccase of C. bulleri was successfully produced extra-cellularly to a high level of 7200 U L-1 in P. pastoris under the control of the AOX1 promoter and purified by a simple three-step procedure to homogeneity. The kinetic parameters against ABTS, Guaiacol and Pyrogallol were similar with the nLac and the rLac. Tryptic finger print analysis of the nLac and the rLac indicated altered glycosylation patterns. Increased thermo-stability and salt tolerance of the rLac was attributed to this changed pattern of glycosylation.
No effect modification of serum bilirubin or coffee consumption on the association of gamma-glutamyltransferase with glycated hemoglobin in a cross-sectional study of Japanese men and women
Authors: Wang Zhenjie , McMonagle Christopher , Yoshimitsu Shinichiro , Budhathoki Sanjeev , Morita Makiko , Toyomura Kengo , Ohnaka Keizo , Takayanagi Ryoichi , Kono Suminori
Published: October 2012

Background

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Bilirubin is a potent endogenous antioxidant, and coffee is a major source of exogenous antioxidants. Serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), a marker of oxidative stress, is a strong predictor of the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study evaluated the effect modification of bilirubin and coffee consumption on the association of serum GGT with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the combined effect of bilirubin and coffee on HbA1c concentrations.

Methods

The subjects were 4492 men and 6242 women aged 49–76 years who participated in the baseline survey of an on-going cohort study on lifestyle-related diseases in Fukuoka, Japan. Geometric means of HbA1c were examined according to quartile categories of GGT, with stratification by serum total bilirubin (≥ 0.6 mg/dL versus less in men and ≥ 0.5 mg/dL versus less in women) and coffee consumption (< 1, 1–3 and ≥ 4 cups of per day). Statistical adjustment was made for age, smoking, alcohol use and body mass index by using analysis of covariance.

Results

HbA1 concentrations increased progressively with increasing levels of GGT in both men and women. The increasing trend of HbA1c concentrations associated with GGT did not differ by either bilirubin status or coffee consumption. Both men and women with high bilirubin had consistently lower concentrations of HbA1c across the GGT quartiles. Higher coffee consumption was associated with lower concentrations of HbA1c in women with low bilirubin (trend P = 0.04), but not with high bilirubin (trend P = 0.37). There was no such association between coffee and HbA1c in men with either low or high bilirubin levels.

Conclusions

Bilirubin is possibly protective against deterioration of glucose metabolism. Further studies are needed regarding the combined effect of bilirubin and coffee on glucose metabolism.