bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-delay feedback control of lathe cutting tools
Authors: Nayfeh Ali H , Nayfeh Nader A
Published: September 2011

For some machining operations, tool vibrations decay with time, the trivial solution is a stable equilibrium solution, and hence the machined surface is smooth. For other operating conditions, the trivial solution is unstable and the tool undergoes large oscillations called chatter, which might be periodic, quasiperiodic, or chaotic, and hence the surface finish will not be smooth. Therefore, chatter must be avoided or mitigated to maintain machining tolerances, preserve surface finish, and prevent tool breakage. Therefore, extensive research has been devoted to the understanding of the mechanisms of, modeling of, and methods of controlling machine–tool chatter. In this paper, we show that the region of linearly stable trivial solution can be widened considerably using time-delay acceleration feedback.
Prediction of Discomfort Glares from Windows: Influence of the Subjective Evaluation of Window Views
Authors: Kim Jeong Tai , Shin Ju Young , Yun Geun Young
Published: September 2011

Lighting in buildings can exert a large influence on the comfort, well-being, and health of occupants. A window plays a major role in providing both natural lighting in buildings and a view out, so that occupants can keep in touch with the external environment. Thus, it is essential to understand what the visual requirements are to meet occupants’ needs and how window views could affect those requirements. This study aims to reveal occupant perception on window views and to identify its effects on the assessment of glare from windows. This paper presents the results from the experiment conducted in a chamber with a simulated window, which can render various window views and luminance conditions. Forty-eight subjects participated in the experiment. The results show the evidence that the glare sensation of occupants could vary with the occupant’s perception on window views under the same luminous conditions. A discomfort glare index that predicts a subjective discomfort glare as a function of background and window luminances, position index, and perception on window views, has been developed by this study. A comparison between the developed and existing glare prediction models was discussed in this paper.
Dementia skills for all: A core competency framework for the workforce in the United Kingdom
Authors: Tsaroucha Anna , Benbow Susan Mary , Kingston Paul , Mesurier Nick Le
Published: September 2011

One of the biggest challenges facing health and social care in the United Kingdom is the projected increase in the number of older people who require dementia care. The National Dementia Strategy ( Department of Health, 2009 ) emphasizes the critical need for a skilled workforce in all aspects of dementia care. In the West Midlands, the Strategic Health Authority commissioned a project to develop a set of generic core competencies that would guide a competency based curriculum to meet the demands for improved dementia training and education. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant frameworks to assist with this work. The core competency framework produced and the methods used for the development of the framework are presented and discussed.
Relatedness among people diagnosed with dementia: Social cognition and the possibility of friendship
Authors: Sabat Steven R. , Lee Joanna M.
Published: September 2011

In this study, we examined the social relatedness of people in the moderate stage of dementia as defined by their performance on standard tests and clinical examination. The individuals herein were observed in the natural social environment of an adult day center that they attended on weekdays. A number of important aspects of mutually desired, independently initiated, supportive social relationships were observed to exist, through which the principals revealed semiotic, or meaning-driven, behavior that would not be predicted by their meeting the criteria that contributed to their diagnosis. Losses in social functioning described in the DSM and associated with the clinical diagnosis of dementia appear to be caused more by social dynamics involving healthy others than by brain injury alone. Implications for the non-pharmacological treatment of people with dementia are explored and discussed within the context of Kitwood's idea of positive person work.
Life cycle comparison of a wave and tidal energy device
Authors: Walker S , Howell R
Published: September 2011

Tidal and wave energy devices are often discussed as a future contributor to the UK’s energy mix. Indeed, marine energy resources are said to have the potential to supply up to 20 per cent of the nation’s electricity demand. However, these technologies are currently at the development stage and make no meaningful contribution to the national grid. A number of devices have been developed, but no single method has emerged as the leading technology. This paper aims to compare two promising devices, one wave device and one tidal device, and assess the life cycle properties of each. A life cycle assessment of the Oyster wave energy device was conducted as part of this study, and a comparison of this and the SeaGen marine current turbine was undertaken. In both cases a ‘cradle-to-grave’ assessment was carried out, calculating emissions from materials, fabrication, transport, installation, lifetime maintenance, and decommissioning (including recycling). The SeaGen tidal device was calculated to have an energy payback period of 14 months, and a CO2 payback period of 8 months. The equivalent figures for the Oyster device were 12 and 8 months, respectively. The respective energy and carbon intensities for the two devices were 214 kJ/kWh and 15 gCO2/kWh for the SeaGen and 236 kJ/kWh and 25 gCO2/kWh for the Oyster. The calculated intensities and payback periods are close to those of established wind turbine technologies, and low relative to the 400–1000 g CO2/kWh of typical fossil fuel generation. With further developments in construction and deployment efficiency these intensities are expected to fall, so the devices appear to have the potential to offer a viable contribution to the UK’s future energy mix.
Toward Understanding the Direct and Indirect Effects of Transformational Leadership on Well-Being
Authors: Tafvelin Susanne , Armelius Kerstin , Westerberg Kristina
Published: September 2011

In this two-wave longitudinal panel study, the authors strived to advance understanding of how transformational leadership affects employee well-being over time. The authors proposed a model that included both direct and indirect effects, which was tested in a sample of social service employees. Results of structural equation modeling revealed that transformational leadership had no direct effect on well-being over time. Instead, both the short-term and long-term effects of transformational leadership on well-being were mediated by a positive climate for innovation. The study contributes to knowledge about the complicated processes by which leaders influence well-being of employees.
Osseous Integration after Fresh Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation to the Distal Femur
Authors: Brown Dawson , Shirzad Khalid , Lavigne Stephanie A. , Crawford Dennis C.
Published: September 2011

Objective:

Fresh osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) is an increasingly available option for patients with damage to the bone-cartilage complex of the distal femur. This study prospectively assesses osseous integration and early clinical results following fresh OCA with single or multiple cylindrical grafts to the femoral condyle.

Design:

Patients with grade 4 International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) defects of the distal femur were treated with OCA. Outcome measures were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 6, 12, and 24 months. Computed tomography (CT) scans obtained at 6 months were used to assess degree of osseous incorporation regionally.

Results:

Thirty-four patients, with a mean age of 34.5 years (range, 15-61), with a mean femoral osteochondral lesion of 5.7 cm2 (range, 1.5-15.0) due to focal osteoarthritis, osteochondritis dissecans, and avascular necrosis, are reported. Statistically significant ( P < 0.05) mean improvement in outcome scores at 2 years included Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcomes Score (KOOS) pain, sports and recreation, quality of life, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC). CT imaging indicated grafts implanted to direct weightbearing regions had >75% incorporation (20/26 grafts) compared to <50% incorporation in the indirect weightbearing regions (8/14 grafts). A greater degree of incorporation and earlier outcome improvement were found after single ( n = 23) compared to multiple ( n = 11) grafts.

Conclusion:

CT scans were used to assess osseous incorporation of fresh osteochondral allografts in a cohort that showed significant improvements after 2 years. Single-graft implantation is associated with stable incorporation of a greater percentage of the graft. Lesser incorporation appears more frequently with grafts in posterior indirect weightbearing regions of the condyle and multiple contiguous grafts.
Determination of the Interday and Intraday Reliability of Serum Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein in a Physically Active Population
Authors: Hoch Johanna M. , Mattacola Carl G. , Medina-McKeon Jennifer M. , Shah Jay N. , Lattermann Christian
Published: September 2011

Objective:

To determine the intraday and interday reliability of serum cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (sCOMP) in a physically active population with no history of lower extremity surgery.

Design:

A repeated-measures reliability study was employed to determine the intraday and interday reliability of sCOMP in a physically active cohort. A total of 23 subjects were recruited to the laboratory on 3 separate occasions for nonfasting serum collection. Subjects had no history of lower extremity surgery and were free from acute injury within the last 3 months.

Results:

Our results indicate strong reliability for both intraday intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (0.76) and interday ICC (0.74) sCOMP values.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that following 30 minutes of inactivity, nonfasting serum samples remain stable over the course of 1 day and between 2 consecutive days in a healthy population with no history of lower extremity surgery. Future research studies are needed to further investigate the magnitude of change in this biomarker for patients with acute articular cartilage damage to determine its appropriateness for use in this population and for varying degrees of articular cartilage severity.
CD147 (Basigin/Emmprin) identifies FoxP3+CD45RO+CTLA4+-activated human regulatory T cells
Authors: Solstad Therese , Bains Simer Jit , Landskron Johannes , Aandahl Einar Martin , Thiede Bernd , Taskén Kjetil , Torgersen Knut Martin
Published: September 2011

Human CD4+FoxP3+ T cells are functionally and phenotypically heterogeneous providing plasticity to immune activation and regulation. To better understand the functional dynamics within this subset, we first used a combined strategy of subcellular fractionation and proteomics to describe differences at the protein level between highly purified human CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25− T-cell populations. This identified a set of membrane proteins highly expressed on the cell surface of human regulatory T cells (Tregs), including CD71, CD95, CD147, and CD148. CD147 (Basigin or Emmprin) divided CD4+CD25+ cells into distinct subsets. Furthermore, CD147, CD25, FoxP3, and in particular CTLA-4 expression correlated. Phenotypical and functional analyses suggested that CD147 marks the switch between resting (CD45RA+) and activated (CD45RO+) subsets within the FoxP3+ T-cell population. Sorting of regulatory T cells into CD147− and CD147+ populations demonstrated that CD147 identifies an activated and highly suppressive CD45RO+ Treg subset. When analyzing CD4+ T cells for their cytokine producing potential, CD147 levels grouped the FoxP3+ subset into 3 categories with different ability to produce IL-2, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-17. Together, this suggests that CD147 is a direct marker for activated Tregs within the CD4+FoxP3+ subset and may provide means to manipulate cells important for immune homeostasis.
Intensive strategy to prevent CMV disease in seropositive umbilical cord blood transplant recipients
Authors: Milano Filippo , Pergam Steven A. , Xie Hu , Leisenring Wendy M. , Gutman Jonathan A. , Riffkin Ivy , Chow Victor , Boeckh Michael J. , Delaney Colleen
Published: September 2011

Seropositive umbilical cord blood transplant (UCBT) recipients are at increased risk for CMV complications. To reduce CMV complications, we adopted an intensive strategy that consisted of ganciclovir administered before transplantation (5 mg/kg intravenously daily from day −8 to day −2), high-dose acyclovir (2 g, 3 times daily) after transplanta-tion, and biweekly monitoring with a serum CMV PCR for preemptive therapy. Hazard rates and cumulative incidence of CMV complications along with days treated were compared in high-risk CMV-seropositive UCBT recipients who received the intensive strategy and a historical cohort who received a standard strategy. Of 72 seropositive patients, 29 (40%) received standard prophylaxis and 43 (60%) the new intensive approach. The hazard rate (HR) for CMV reactivation was lower for patients receiving the intensive strategy (HR 0.27, 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.48; P < .001) and led to fewer cases of CMV disease by 1 year (HR 0.11, 95% confidence interval 0.02-0.53; P = .006). In patients who reactivated, the intensive strategy also led to fewer days on CMV-specific antiviral therapy (median 42% [interquartile range 21-63] vs 70% [interquartile range 54-83], P < .001). Use of an intensive CMV prevention strategy in high-risk CMVseropositive UCBT recipients results in a significant decrease in CMV reactivation and disease.
A phase 2 multicenter study of lenalidomide in relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Fehniger Todd A. , Larson Sarah , Trinkaus Kathryn , Siegel Marilyn J. , Cashen Amanda F. , Blum Kristie A. , Fenske Timothy S. , Hurd David D. , Goy Andre , Schneider Stephanie E. , Keppel Catherine R. , Wagner-Johnston Nina D. , Carson Kenneth R. , Bartlett Nancy L.
Published: September 2011

Relapsed or refractory (rel/ref) classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) remains a clinical challenge, with limited effective treatment options available after stem cell transplantation. In a multicenter phase 2 study, the efficacy of lenalidomide in rel/ref cHL patients was evaluated at a dose of 25 mg/d on days 1-21 of a 28-day cycle. Patients remained on lenalidomide until disease progression or an unacceptable adverse event (AE) occurred. Thirty-eight cHL patients were enrolled with a median of 4 (range, 2-9) prior therapies; 87% had undergone prior stem cell transplantation and 55% of patients did not respond to their last prior therapy. Of 36 evaluable patients, responses were 1 complete remission (CR), 6 partial remissions (PRs), and 5 patients with stable disease (SD) for ≥ 6 months resulting in an International Working Committee (IWC) objective overall response rate (ORR) of 19% and a cytostatic ORR of 33%. Decreased chemokine (CCL17 and CCL22) plasma levels at 2 weeks were associated with a subsequent response. The treatment was well tolerated, and the most common grade 3/4 AEs were neutropenia (47%), anemia (29%), and thrombocytopenia (18%). Four patients discontinued lenalidomide because of rash, elevated transaminases/bilirubin, and cytopenias. We provide preliminary evidence of lenalidomide's activity in patients with rel/ref cHL, and therefore exploration of lenalidomide in combination with other active agents is warranted. This trial is registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT00540007.
Mechanism of catheter thrombosis: comparison of the antithrombotic activities of fondaparinux, enoxaparin, and heparin in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Yau Jonathan W. , Stafford Alan R. , Liao Peng , Fredenburgh James C. , Roberts Robin , Weitz Jeffrey I.
Published: September 2011

In patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, catheter thrombosis is more frequent with fondaparinux than heparin. This study was undertaken to identify the responsible mechanism and to develop strategies for its prevention. Percutaneous coronary intervention catheter segments shortened plasma clotting times from 971 ± 92 to 352 ± 22 seconds. This activity is factor XII (fXII) dependent because it was attenuated with corn trypsin inhibitor and was abolished in fXII-deficient plasma. Heparin and enoxaparin blocked catheter-induced clotting at 0.5 and 2 anti-Xa U/mL, respectively, whereas fondaparinux had no effect. Addition of fondaparinux to bivalirudin or low-dose heparin attenuated catheter-induced clotting more than either agent alone. In a rabbit model of catheter thrombosis, a 70 anti-Xa U/kg intravenous bolus of heparin or enoxaparin prolonged the time to catheter occlusion by 4.6- and 2.5-fold, respectively, compared with saline, whereas the same dose of fondaparinux had no effect. Although 15 anti-Xa U/kg heparin had no effect on its own, when given in conjunction with 70 anti-Xa U/kg fondaparinux, the time to catheter occlusion was prolonged 2.9-fold. These findings indicate that (1) catheters are prothrombotic because they trigger fXII activation, and (2) fondaparinux does not prevent catheter-induced clotting unless supplemented with low-dose heparin or bivalirudin.
High endothelial venules as traffic control points maintaining lymphocyte population homeostasis in lymph nodes
Authors: Mionnet Cyril , Sanos Stéphanie L. , Mondor Isabelle , Jorquera Audrey , Laugier Jean-Pierre , Germain Ronald N. , Bajénoff Marc
Published: September 2011

Millions of lymphocytes enter and exit mammal lymph nodes (LNs) each day, accessing the parenchyma via high endothelial venules (HEVs) and egressing via lymphatics. Despite this high rate of cellular flux and the many entry and exit sites within a given LN, the number of lymphocytes present in a resting LN is extraordinary stable over time, raising the question of how this steady-state is maintained. Here we have examined the anatomic details of lymphocyte movement in HEVs, finding that HEVs create pockets within which lymphocytes reside for several minutes before entering the LN proper. The function of these pockets was revealed in experiments performed under conditions in which lymphocyte egress from the LN was compromised by any of several approaches. Under such conditions, the HEVs pockets behaved as “waiting areas” in which lymphocytes were held until space was made available to them for entry into the parenchyma. Thus, rather than being simple entry ports, HEVs act as gatekeepers able to stack, hold and grant lymphocytes access to LN parenchyma in proportion to the rate of lymphocyte egress from the LN, enabling the LN to maintain a constant steady-state cellularity while supporting the extensive cellular trafficking necessary for repertoire scanning.
Antiretroviral treatment-induced dyslipidemia in HIV-infected patients is influenced by the APOC3-related rs10892151 polymorphism
Authors: Aragonès Gerard , Alonso-Villaverde Carlos , Pardo-Reche Pedro , Rull Anna , Beltrán-Debón Raúl , Rodríguez-Gallego Esther , Fernández-Sender Laura , Camps Jordi , Joven Jorge
Published: September 2011

Background

The recently observed association between the APOC3-related rs10892151 polymorphism and serum triglyceride levels has prompted us the possibility to explore whether this genetic variant may play a major role in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/antiretroviral therapy-induced dyslipidemia.

Methods

We determined the rs10892151 genotype distribution and serum apolipoprotein (apo) C-III concentration in a group of HIV-infected patients (n= 208) and in a group of age and sex-matched healthy volunteers (n= 200). Circulating lipid and lipoprotein levels were followed for 12 months after antiretroviral treatment initiation in the HIV-infected group.

Results

There were no significant variations in the frequency of the A allele between the healthy and HIV-infected groups (7.5 vs. 8.6%, respectively; p = 0.7); additionally, the A allele was not related to serum apo C-III concentration. However, among patients receiving protease inhibitor (PI) treatment, carriers of the A allele had significantly increased serum triglyceride (5.76 ± 2.54 mmol/L) and total cholesterol (6.63 ± 2.85 mmol/L) concentrations together with depressed levels of HDL-cholesterol (0.75 ± 0.3 mmol/L) when compared with patients not carrying the allele (2.43 ± 1.32, 5.2 ± 2.17 and 1.24 ± 0.4 mmol/L, respectively) at the end of the study. This effect was only evident for HDL-cholesterol concentration when patients were treated with non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (1.05 ± 0.4 vs. 1.28 ± 0.4 mmol/L).

Conclusions

The A allelic variant of the rs10892151 polymorphism is not associated with serum apo C-III concentration, but predisposes HIV-infected patients to less favorable lipid profile, particularly in those patients treated with PIs.
Assessing the impact of a food supplement on the nutritional status and body composition of HIV-infected Zambian women on ARVs
Authors: Zulu Rodah M , Byrne Nuala M , Munthali Grace K , Chipeta James , Handema Ray , Musonda Mofu , Hills Andrew P
Published: September 2011

Background

Zambia is a sub-Saharan country with one of the highest prevalence rates of HIV, currently estimated at 14%. Poor nutritional status due to both protein-energy and micronutrient malnutrition has worsened this situation. In an attempt to address this combined problem, the government has instigated a number of strategies, including the provision of antiretroviral (ARV) treatment coupled with the promotion of good nutrition. High-energy protein supplement (HEPS) is particularly promoted; however, the impact of this food supplement on the nutritional status of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) beyond weight gain has not been assessed. Techniques for the assessment of nutritional status utilising objective measures of body composition are not commonly available in Zambia. The aim of this study is therefore to assess the impact of a food supplement on nutritional status using a comprehensive anthropometric protocol including measures of skinfold thickness and circumferences, plus the criterion deuterium dilution technique to assess total body water (TBW) and derive fat-free mass (FFM) and fat mass (FM).

Methods/Design

This community-based controlled and longitudinal study aims to recruit 200 HIV-infected females commencing ARV treatment at two clinics in Lusaka, Zambia. Data will be collected at four time points: baseline, 4-month, 8-month and 12-month follow-up visits. Outcome measures to be assessed include body height and weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, CD4, viral load and micronutrient status.

Discussion

This protocol describes a study that will provide a longitudinal assessment of the impact of a food supplement on the nutritional status of HIV-infected females initiating ARVs using a range of anthropometric and body composition assessment techniques.

Trial Registration

Pan African Clinical Trial Registry PACTR201108000303396.
Geographic distribution of need and access to health care in rural population: an ecological study in Iran
Authors: Ahmad Kiadaliri Aliasghar , Najafi Behzad , Haghparast-Bidgoli Hassan
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Equity in access to and utilization of health services is a common goal of policy-makers in most countries. The current study aimed to evaluate the distribution of need and access to health care services among Iran's rural population between 2006 and 2009.

Methods

Census data on population's characteristics in each province were obtained from the Statistical Centre of Iran and National Organization for civil registration. Data about the Rural Health Houses (RHHs) were obtained from the Ministry of Health. The Health Houses-to-rural population ratio (RHP), crude birth rate (CBR) and crude mortality rate (CMR) in rural population were calculated in order to compare their distribution among the provinces. Lorenz curves of RHHs, CMR and CBR were plotted and their decile ratio, Gini Index and Index of Dissimilarity were calculated. Moreover, Spearman rank-order correlation was used to examine the relation between RHHs and CMR and CBR.

Results

There were substantial differences in RHHs, CMR and CBR across the provinces. CMR and CBR experienced changes toward more equal distributions between 2006 and 2009, while inverse trend was seen for RHHs. Excluding three provinces with markedly changes in data between 2006 and 2009 as outliers, did not change observed trends. Moreover; there was a significant positive relationship between CMR and RHP in 2009 and a significant negative association between CBR and RHP in 2006 and 2009. When three provinces with outliers were excluded, these significant associations were disappeared.

Conclusion

Results showed that there were significant variations in the distribution of RHHs, CMR and CBR across the country. Moreover, the distribution of RHHs did not reflect the needs for health care in terms of CMR and CBR in the study period.
Calcium signaling around Mitochondria Associated Membranes (MAMs)
Authors: Patergnani Simone , Suski Jan M , Agnoletto Chiara , Bononi Angela , Bonora Massimo , De Marchi Elena , Giorgi Carlotta , Marchi Saverio , Missiroli Sonia , Poletti Federica , Rimessi Alessandro , Duszynski Jerzy , Wieckowski Mariusz R , Pinton Paolo
Published: September 2011

Calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis is fundamental for cell metabolism, proliferation, differentiation, and cell death. Elevation in intracellular Ca2+concentration is dependent either on Ca2+influx from the extracellular space through the plasma membrane, or on Ca2+release from intracellular Ca2+stores, such as the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR). Mitochondria are also major components of calcium signalling, capable of modulating both the amplitude and the spatio-temporal patterns of Ca2+signals. Recent studies revealed zones of close contact between the ER and mitochondria called MAMs (Mitochondria Associated Membranes) crucial for a correct communication between the two organelles, including the selective transmission of physiological and pathological Ca2+signals from the ER to mitochondria. In this review, we summarize the most up-to-date findings on the modulation of intracellular Ca2+release and Ca2+uptake mechanisms. We also explore the tight interplay between ER- and mitochondria-mediated Ca2+signalling, covering the structural and molecular properties of the zones of close contact between these two networks.
Serial increase of IL-12 response and human leukocyte antigen-DR expression in severe sepsis survivors
Authors: Wu Huang-Pin , Shih Chi-Chung , Lin Chun-Yao , Hua Chung-Ching , Chuang Duen-Yau
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Sepsis-induced immunosuppression may result in death. The mechanisms of immune suppression include loss of macrophage and monocyte expression of the major histocompatibility complex, increased anti-inflammatory cytokine expression and decreased expression of proinflammatory cytokines. In this study, we sought to determine the mechanisms of immune suppression in severe sepsis by repeated detection.

Methods

We designed this prospective observational study to measure monocyte human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR expression, plasma cytokine levels and cytokine responses on days 1 and 7 in stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of healthy controls and patients with severe sepsis.

Results

Of the 35 enrolled patients, 23 survived for 28 days and 12 died, 6 of whom died within 7 days. Plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and TNF-α were higher, but plasma IL-12 level was lower in septic patients than those in controls. Day 1 plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TGF-β1 in nonsurvivors were higher than those in survivors. Day 7 plasma IL-10 levels in nonsurvivors were higher than in survivors. IL-1β response was higher, but IL-12 and TNF-α responses were lower in septic patients than in controls. Day 1 IL-6 response was lower, but day 1 TGF-β1 response was higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors. Plasma IL-6 and IL-10 levels were decreased in survivors after 6 days. IL-6 response was decreased in survivors after 6 days, but IL-12 response was increased. Monocyte percentage was higher, but positive HLA-DR percentage in monocytes and mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of HLA-DR were lower in septic patients than in controls. MFI of HLA-DR was increased in survivors after 6 days.

Conclusions

Monocyte HLA-DR expression and IL-12 response from PBMCs are restored in patients who survive severe sepsis.
Origins of Global Turmoil and Greek Economic Distress
Authors: Stavrou Nikolaos A.
Published: September 2011

This essay traces the factors, personalities, and issues that contributed to the transformation of the American political landscape and links post – World War II changes, the prevailing world turmoil, and the erosion of American ideals to the growth of the military-industrial complex and the privatization of war.
Does venous insufficiency impair the exercise-induced rise in arterial leg blood flow?
Authors: Nådland I H , Wesche J , Sheriff D D , Toska K
Published: September 2011

Objectives

It has been shown that the leg muscle pump increases the immediate rise in arterial leg blood flow during upright exercise in healthy subjects. The present study is the first to investigate the muscle pump effect in exercise hyperaemia in patients with venous insufficiency, who should be lacking an optimally functioning muscle pump.

Methods

Any muscle pump effect is more pronounced in an upright position because of gravitation. The exercise-induced rise in femoral artery flow (FF) (ultrasound Doppler) was thus compared in the supine and 30° head-up tilted position in 10 patients.

Results

Neither the transient nor the steady-state rise in FF showed any difference between positions. This is in contrast to the previous findings in healthy subjects, where the transient rise in FF was larger in the tilted position.

Conclusion

The muscle pump effect in exercise hyperaemia seems to be reduced or lacking in these patients.
Characterizations of Creep-fatigue Crack Initiation and Growth Life for P92 using Circular Notched Round Bar Specimen
Authors: Sugiura R. , Yokobori A.T. , Nakagawa T. , Adachi T. , Nonaka I. , Tabuchi M. , Hasegawa Y. , Matsuzaki T.
Published: September 2011

A testing method under creep-fatigue interaction conditions has been proposed as the ASTM standard E2714-09. In accordance with the ASTM standard, round bar smooth specimens have been recommended as a testing specimen. Additionally, creep-fatigue crack initiation and growth life are usually defined as the attainment of a specific rate of decrease in the maximum tensile stress or the modulus of elasticity ratios. However, these criterions of crack initiation and growth life on ASTM standard are not characterized in terms of physical crack size. In this study, the creep-fatigue crack initiation and growth tests for P92 were conducted using circular notched round bar specimens. An attempt is made to measure the crack length during the tests by the direct current potential drop method, which results in the establishment of a high accuracy crack length measurement. Additionally, the life of creep-fatigue crack growth was characterized by linear cumulative damage law combined with the Q*concept which has been proposed as fracture parameter to describe the life of creep crack growth.
High Manganese Advanced High Strength TWIP Steel for Automotive Applications
Authors: De Cooman Bruno C.
Published: September 2011

High Mn TWinning-Induced Plasticity (TWIP) steels have mechanical properties which make them suitable for effective vehicle mass containment and an enhanced passenger safety in automotive applications. High Mn TWIP steels with additions of C and Al are fully austenitic at room temperature and have a stacking fault energy (SFE) within the narrow range of 20-30 mJ/m2 required for mechanical twin formation. The present contribution reviews the state-of-the-science on TWIP steels, and highlights those areas where there is still a lack of fundamental understanding of their properties, such as the effect of the anti-ferromagnetic transition, the influence of interstitial C, the twinning mechanism, the effect of slip and twinning on the crystallographic texture evolution and the delayed fracture phenomenon.
Constructing 'The Day After'
Authors: Driscoll Christopher
Published: September 2011

Based out of Atlanta, GA, rap group Goodie Mob emerged in 1995 and gained critical and commercial success in large part through their ability to maintain a lyrical and musical balance between prophetically biting social commentaries concerning racism, poverty, violence, and sexism with an overtly theistic (and often Christian) metaphysical program responsive to these concerns. One way Goodie Mob maintains this balance is through the heuristic of death. Often, the group suggests death - the fear or exaggeration of it - is responsible for the individual and social sufferings that offer a starting platform for their prophetic critiques. At other times, death is deemed the only real solution to suffering. During these moments, death offers an end to suffering and the discovery of a response to the absurdity and arbitrariness of death and suffering. Using Goodie Mob's lyrics, this essay explores the relationship between metaphysical constructions and social injustices like white supremacy, and ultimately concludes that white supremacy might be thought of as a metaphysical system.
Interactions among lignin, cellulose, and nitrogen drive litter chemistry–decay relationships
Authors: Talbot Jennifer M. , Treseder Kathleen K.
Published: September 2011

Litter decay rates often correlate with the initial ratios of lignin : nitrogen (N) or lignin : cellulose in litter. However, the chemical and microbial mechanisms that give rise to these patterns are still unclear. To identify these mechanisms, we studied the decomposition of a model plant system, Arabidopsis thaliana, in which plants were manipulated to have low levels of lignin, cellulose, or litter N. Nitrogen fertilizer often increases the loss of cellulose, but it suppresses the breakdown of lignin in plant litter. To understand the mechanisms driving these patterns, we decomposed plants in litterbags for one year in control and N‐fertilized plots in an Alaskan boreal forest. We found that litter N had a positive effect on total mass loss because it increased the loss of lignin, N, and soluble C. Lignin had a negative effect on rates of total litter mass loss due to decreases in the loss of cellulose and hemicellulose. Cellulose had a positive effect on lignin loss, supporting the concept of a “priming effect” for lignin breakdown. However, the low‐cellulose plants also lost more of their original cellulose compared to the other plant types, indicating that decomposers mined the litter for cellulose despite the presence of lignin.

Low‐lignin litter had higher fungal biomass and N‐acetyl glucosaminidase (NAG, a chitinase) activity, suggesting that lignin restricted fungal growth and may have influenced competitive interactions between decomposers. Nitrogen fertilization increased NAG activity in the early stages of decay. In the later stages, N fertilization led to increased cellulase activity on the litters and tended to reduce lignin losses. The transition over time from competition among decomposers to high cellulase activity and suppressed lignin loss under N fertilization suggests that, in N‐limited systems, N fertilization may alter decomposer community structure by favoring a shift toward cellulose‐ and mineral‐N users.
An integrated approach for urban water quality assessment
Authors: Beenen A. S. , Langeveld J. G. , Liefting H. J. , Aalderink R. H. , Velthorst H.
Published: September 2011

This paper introduces an integrated approach for the assessment of receiving water quality and the relative contribution of the urban drainage system to perceived receiving water quality problems. The approach combines mass balances with relatively simple receiving water impact models. The research project has learned that the urban drainage system is only one of the determining factors with respect to receiving urban water quality problems. The morphology of the receiving waters and the non-sewer sources of pollution, such as waterbirds, dogs, or inflow of external surface water might be equally important. This conclusion underlines the necessity to changes today's emission based approach and adopt an integral and immission based approach. The integrated approach is illustrated on a case study in Arnhem, where the receiving water quality remained unsatisfactory even after retrofitting a combined sewer system into a separated sewer system.
Efficiency of a turbidity-based, real-time control strategy applied to a retention tank: a simulation study
Authors: Lacour C. , Joannis C. , Schuetze M. , Chebbo G.
Published: September 2011

This paper compares several real-time control (RTC) strategies for a generic configuration consisting of a storage tank with two overflow facilities. Two of the strategies only make use of flow rate data, while the third also introduces turbidity data in order to exercise dynamic control between two overflow locations. The efficiency of each strategy is compared over a wide range of system setups, described by two parameters. This assessment is performed by simulating the application of control strategies to actual measurements time series recorded on two sites. Adding turbidity measurements into an RTC strategy leads to a significant reduction in the annual overflow pollutant load. The pollutant spills spared by such a control strategy strongly depend on the site and on the flow rate based strategy considered as a reference. With the datasets used in this study, values ranging from 5 to 50% were obtained.
Calibration of a simple model for waste stabilisation pond performance in seasonal climates
Authors: Heaven S. , Salter A. M. , Clarke D.
Published: September 2011

The paper describes the calibration of a model for waste stabilisation pond (WSP) performance in seasonal climates, based on the use of readily available climate data sets. Calibration data were taken from a wide geographical area of Canada and the USA, including coastal and moderately seasonal sites. Good agreement with measured values was shown using a biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) decay constant of 0.3 day−1 for facultative ponds and 0.07–0.1 day−1 for storage/maturation ponds with a temperature-related Arrhenius constant of 1.05, and a fixed BOD decay constant of 0.007 day−1 at water temperatures below 0 °C. The results suggested that such models could potentially be used as the basis for WSP design guidelines tailored to a wide range of climatic conditions.
Development and validation of a FISH-based method for the detection and quantification of E. coli and coliform bacteria in water samples
Authors: Hügler Michael , Böckle Karin , Eberhagen Ingrid , Thelen Karin , Beimfohr Claudia , Hambsch Beate
Published: September 2011

Monitoring of microbiological contaminants in water supplies requires fast and sensitive methods for the specific detection of indicator organisms or pathogens. We developed a protocol for the simultaneous detection of E. coli and coliform bacteria based on the Fluorescence in situ Hybridization (FISH) technology. This protocol consists of two approaches. The first allows the direct detection of single E. coli and coliform bacterial cells on the filter membranes. The second approach includes incubation of the filter membranes on a nutrient agar plate and subsequent detection of the grown micro-colonies. Both approaches were validated using drinking water samples spiked with pure cultures and naturally contaminated water samples. The effects of heat, chlorine and UV disinfection were also investigated. The micro-colony approach yielded very good results for all samples and conditions tested, and thus can be thoroughly recommended for usage as an alternative method to detect E. coli and coliform bacteria in water samples. However, during this study, some limitations became visible for the single cell approach. The method cannot be applied for water samples which have been disinfected by UV irradiation. In addition, our results indicated that green fluorescent dyes are not suitable to be used with chlorine disinfected samples.
Influence of the land use pattern on the concentrations and fluxes of priority pollutants in urban stormwater
Authors: Zgheib S. , Moilleron R. , Chebbo G.
Published: September 2011

This paper presents the results of the concentrations (μg/L) and fluxes (g/ha) of priority substances in stormwater from three watersheds with different land use patterns (namely, residential, urban dense, high urban density). Samples were collected at the outlet of these watersheds. Thirteen chemical groups were investigated corresponding to 88 individual substances before treatment. Results showed that stormwater discharges contained 55 substances, among them some metals, organotins, PAHs, PCBs, alkylphenols, pesticides, phthalates, cholorophenols and volatile organic compounds. Therefore, stormwater was highly contaminated. However, this contamination was often comparable from site to site, since no significant difference of the pollutant load was observed between the land use patterns.
Resistance of nerve cells to oxidative injury
Authors: Jovanovic Zorica , Jovanovic Svetlana
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Reactive oxygen species are particularly active in the brain
and neuronal tissue, and they are involved in numerous cellular functions,
including cell death and survival. Brain and oxidative stress. A high
metabolic rate and an abundant supply of the transition metals make the brain
an ideal target for a free radical attack. In addition, the brain has a high
susceptibility to oxidative stress due to the high lipid content and
relatively lower regenerative capacity in comparison with other tissues.
Vulnerability of nerve cells to oxidative stress. The neurons are more
vulnerable to oxidative stress than other brain cell types. In addition to
the two conventional enzymes, catalase and glutathione peroxidase,
peroxiredoxins remove intracellular hydrogen peroxide by reducing it to
water. The recent work increasingly supports the hypothesis that
peroxiredoxins are not only antioxidant proteins, but they also play a role
in cell signaling by controlling hydrogen peroxide and alkyl hydroperoxide
levels. The accumulating evidence demonstrates that microglia can become
deleterious and damage neurons. The overactivated microglia release reactive
oxygen species that cause neuronal damage in neurodegenerative diseases.
Conclusion. The defense of nerve cells against reactive oxygen species -
mediated oxidative damage is essential for maintaining the functionality of
nerve cells. The ongoing studies show that neuron-glial compartmentalization
of antioxidants is critical for the neuronal signaling by hydrogen peroxide
as well as the neuronal protection.
Diagnosis and outcome of cervical artery dissection
Authors: Divjak Ivana , Slankamenac Petar , Jovicevic Mirjana , Rabi-Zikic Tamara , Jesic Aleksandar
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Spontaneous dissection of the cervical artery is a rare
non-atherosclerotic vascular disease of unknown aetiology and unclear
pathogenesis that may be a cause of ischemic stroke in young adults.
Diagnosis. Precise diagnosis of dissection of the cervical artery - carotid
or vertebral - is possible with cervical axial magnetic resonance imaging and
magnetic resonance angiography. Treatment. The recommended treatment in the
acute phase of cervical artery dissection is anticoagulant or antithrombotic
therapy, aimed at preventing a primary or recurrent ischemic event. There
have been as yet no results of randomized controlled studies comparing
efficacy of both treatments. An ongoing randomized multicentre study is
expected to provide answers about the effects of these treatments in cervical
artery dissection. Outcome. Complete resolution of arterial abnormalities is
achieved in around 46% of stenoses, 33% of occlusions, and 12% of dissecting
aneurysms. Recurrent events. Recurrence of cerebral ischemia and cervical
artery dissection seems to be rare, although some data suggest that early
ischemic and late cervical artery dissection recurrences could be
underestimated. Mortality and functional outcome. In comparison with other
causes of stroke in young adults, the functional outcome of cervical artery
dissection is good in contrast to its socio-professional effects, which may
be unsatisfactory. The mortality rate of cervical artery dissection is low,
although it may be underestimated since some patients with malignant
infarction die before the diagnosis is established. Conclusion. Further
research is warranted to improve our understanding of the underlying
pathophysiology, to assess the long-term outcome, and ultimately to provide
treatment and prevention strategies.
Pulse generation at 1.5-μm wavelength in new EAT14 glasses doped with Er3+ and Yb3+ ions
Authors: Młyńczak J. , Kopczyński K. , Mierczyk Z. , Malinowska M. , Osiwiański P.
Published: September 2011

The paper describes investigation of pulse laser generation in newly developed EAT14 glasses with the use of MALO saturable absorber. Different initial transmission of the saturable absorbers and different transmission of the output coupler were investigated. The laser generation was carried out using 976-nm pump wavelength. Comparison of peak powers, slop efficiencies and thresholds was made with a view to choose the best set of glass and saturable absorber for “eye-safe” microchip laser range-finder. The generated wavelengths by each sample were measured.
Band diagram determination of MOS structures with different gate materials on 3C-SiC substrate
Authors: Piskorski K. , Przewlocki H. , Esteve R. , Bakowski M.
Published: September 2011

MOS capacitors were fabricated on 3C-SiC n-type substrate (001) with a 10-μm N-type epitaxial layer. An SiO2 layer of the thickness tOX ≈55 nm was deposited by PECVD. Circular Al, Ni, and Au gate contacts 0.7 mm in diameter were formed by ion beam sputtering and lift-off. Energy band diagrams of the MOS capacitors were determined using the photoelectric, electric, and optical measurement methods. Optical method (ellipsometry) was used to determine the gate and dielectric layer thicknesses and their optical indices: the refraction n and the extinction k coefficients. Electrical method of C = f(VG) characteristic measurements allowed to determine the doping density ND and the flat band voltage VFB in the semiconductor. Most of the parameters which were necessary for the construction of the band diagrams and for determination of the basic physical properties of the structures (e.g. the effective contact potential difference ϕMS) were measured by several photoelectric methods and calculated using the measurement data. As a result, complete energy band diagrams have been determined for MOS capacitors with three different gate materials and they are demonstrated for two different gate voltages VG: for the flat-band in the semiconductor (VG = VFB) and for the flat-band in the dielectric (VG = VG0).