bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An effective modelling and control strategy for linear switched reluctance motors
Authors: Zhao S W , Cheung N C , Gan W C , Yang J M
Published: November 2008

Trajectory control is an essential element in advanced manufacturing processes. For demanding direct-drive applications, a linear switched reluctance motor (LSRM) has become a potential candidate because of its low cost and simple structure. However, the inherent non-linearities of the LSRM cause difficulties in its controller design. Recently, a few complicated control approaches and schemes have been proposed to overcome the non-linear characteristics, but they need precise modelling, and their algorithms are hard to realize. This article describes a simple and effective design of the feedback control for the trajectory control of the LSRM driving system, and some of its practical aspects. In the proposed control algorithm, the whole driving system is decomposed into two subsystems with different time scales by using the two-time-scale analysis. On the basis of this method, the position controller and current controllers are designed for the two subsystems, respectively. In this way, the controller structure is simplified and the whole tracking system can be designed tractable. Furthermore, a modified proportional-differential controller is proposed for tracking the sinusoid wave. This article includes modelling analysis, simulation results, and detailed experimental implementation as well.
Multi-disciplinary robust coordination for algebraic and differential constraints and its application to parameter design of bogies
Authors: Hu J , Peng Y H , Xiong G L
Published: November 2008

This article presents a new multi-disciplinary parameter design method. In the proposed method, the multi-disciplinary design process includes constraints modelling, parameter coordination, and parameter optimization. First, the multi-disciplinary constraints model for robust coordination is studied. Second, an approach of multi-disciplinary robust coordination for algebraic and differential constraints is presented to support multi-disciplinary collaborative design. A general algorithm is designed to predict conflict and refine the consistent intervals for parameter coordination. Finally, a multi-disciplinary optimization method is presented. The proposed method is applied to parameter design of bogies, considering design constraints from different disciplines, such as mechanics, cybernetics, dynamics, and so on.
A bistable structural element
Authors: Schioler T , Pellegrino S
Published: November 2008

This article presents a novel bistable structural element that has high stiffness in stable configurations, but requires only a small amount of energy to be switched from one configuration to the other. The element is based on a planar linkage of four bars connected by revolute joints, braced by tape-spring diagonals. A description of the concept is presented, along with a detailed theoretical analysis of its mechanical behaviour. Experimental measurements obtained from a prototype structure are found to be in very good agreement with the predictions from this analytical model.
How does the general practitioner understand the patient? A qualitative study about psychological interventions in general practice
Authors: Davidsen Annette Sofie
Published: November 2008

Objectives General practitioners (GPs) treat more than 90% of common mental disorders. However, the content of their interventions remains undefined. The present study aimed to explore GPs' processes of understanding the patients with emotional problems.

Design The study was qualitative using semi‐structured interviews with 14 general practitioners sampled purposively. Observation was done in the surgeries of four of the GPs.

Methods Analysis of the interviews was made by Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Observation notes were analysed from a hermeneutic‐phenomenological perspective, inspired by IPA.

Results GPs had very different approaches to patients with emotional problems. Physical symptoms were the usual reason for consulting the GP. Understanding patients' perception of the meaning of their bodily symptoms in their complex life‐situation was considered important by some of the participants. Arriving at this understanding often occurred through the narrative delivered in different narrative styles mirroring the patients' mental state. Awareness of relational factors and self‐awareness and self‐reflexivity on the part of the GP influenced this process. Other participants did not enter this process of understanding patients' emotional problems.

Conclusions The concept of mentalization could be used to describe GPs' processes of understanding their patients when making psychosocial interventions and could form an important ingredient in a general practice theory in this field. Only some participants had a mentalizing approach. The study calls attention to the advantage of training this capacity for promoting professional treatment of patients and a professional dialogue across sector borders.
Hunger Strike or Medical Disorder? Is Anorexia Caught in Our Flawed Dichotomy Between Body and Mind?
Authors: Churven Peter
Published: November 2008

From a philosophic perspective on clinical practice, anorexic women and their therapists are at risk of being caught in the dichotomy between mind and body that has characterised Western thought, at least since Descartes. If doctors and patients collude in an obsession over weight and refeeding, arising from this flawed dichotomy, it may lead to flawed treatment. Patients describe eating restriction/going on hunger strike as a desperate attempt to achieve a sense of self that can develop into an addiction to the starving state. The extent to which contemporary treatments address these issues is examined.
The Paths Not Taken: The Use of Cybernetic Explanation to Describe the Process of a First Interview
Authors: Sanders Catherine
Published: November 2008

Ideally, therapeutic practice and the underpinning theories which guide our activity are closely linked, yet in everyday work it is sometimes difficult to directly connect one to the other. The following transcript and commentary aim to closely align the systemic, cybernetic ideas drawn from the work of Gregory Bateson with the practical activity of the therapist. It draws on ideas of therapeutic system, negative explanation and restraint to provide a micro‐analysis of a segment of an interview with a woman and her two children who have shared horrific experiences.
An Attention-based System Approach for Scene Analysis in Driver Assistance Ein aufmerksamkeitsbasierter Systemansatz zur Szenenanalyse in der Fahrerassistenz
Authors: Michalke Thomas , Kastner Robert , Adamy Jürgen , Bone Sven , Waibel Falko , Kleinehagenbrock Marcus , Gayko Jens , Gepperth Alexander , Fritsch Jannik , Goerick Christian
Published: November 2008

Research on computer vision systems for driver assistance resulted in a variety of isolated approaches mainly performing very specialized tasks like, e. g., lane keeping or traffic sign detection. However, for a full understanding of generic traffic situations, integrated and flexible approaches are needed. We here present a highly integrated vision architecture for an advanced driver assistance system inspired by human cognitive principles. The system uses an attention system as the flexible and generic front-end for all visual processing, allowing a task-specific scene decomposition and search for known objects (based on a short term memory) as well as generic object classes (based on a long term memory). Knowledge fusion, e. g., between an internal 3D representation and a reliable road detection module improves the system performance. The system heavily relies on top-down links to modulate lower processing levels, resulting in a high system robustness.
The Politics of Economic Nationalism in Japan: Backlash against Inward Foreign Direct Investment?
Authors: Suginohara Masako
Published: November 2008

This paper examines whether increased presence of foreign capital has led to the spread of economic nationalism in Japan and whether such nationalism has affected economic policymaking. The study finds the general public has not embraced nationalistic assertions, while some policymakers had attempted to use nationalism to realize their favored policies.
Progressive Loss of DNA Methylation Releases Epigenetic Gene Silencing From a Tandemly Repeated Maize Myb Gene
Authors: Sekhon Rajandeep S , Chopra Surinder
Published: November 2008

Maize pericarp color1 (p1) gene, which regulates phlobaphene biosynthesis in kernel pericarp and cob glumes, offers an excellent genetic system to study tissue-specific gene regulation. A multicopy p1 allele, P1-wr (white pericarp/red cob) is epigenetically regulated. Hypomethylation of P1-wr in the presence of Unstable factor for orange1 (Ufo1), leads to ectopic pigmentation of pericarp and other organs. The Ufo1-induced phenotypes show incomplete penetrance and poor expressivity: gain of pigmentation is observed only in a subset of plants carrying Ufo1 mutation, and the extent of pigmentation is highly variable. We show that Ufo1 induces progressive hypomethylation of P1-wr repeats over generations. After five generations of exposure to Ufo1, a 30–40% decrease in CG and CNG methylation was observed in an upstream enhancer and an intron region of P1-wr. Interestingly, such hypomethylation correlated with an increase in penetrance of the Ufo1-induced pigmentation phenotype from ∼27 to 61%. Expressivity of the Ufo1-induced phenotype also improved markedly as indicated by increased uniformity of pericarp pigmentation in the later generations. Furthermore, the poor expressivity of the Uo1 is associated with mosaic methylation patterns of the P1-wr upstream enhancer in individual cells and distinct P1-wr gene copies. Finally, comparison of methylation among different tissues indicated that Ufo1 induces rapid CG and CNG hypomethylation of P1-wr repeats during plant development. Together, these data indicate that the poor penetrance and expressivity of Ufo1-induced phenotypes is caused by mosaicism of methylation, and progressive mitotic hypomethylation leads to improved meiotic heritability of the mutant phenotype. In duplicated genomes like maize, loss of an epigenetic regulator may produce mosaic patterns due to redundancy of epigenetic regulators and their target sequences. We show here that multiple developmental cycles may be required for complete disruption of suppressed epigenetic states and appearance of heritable phenotypes.
Effects of a Patent Ductus Arteriosus on Postprandial Mesenteric Perfusion in Premature Baboons
Authors: McCurnin Donald , Clyman Ronald I.
Published: November 2008

BACKGROUND. Superior mesenteric artery flow increases after a feeding to meet the intestines' increased metabolic demands. Although a patent ductus arteriosus can affect superior mesenteric artery perfusion in nonfeeding infants, there is no information about its effects on the hyperemic response that follows a feeding.

OBJECTIVE. Our goal was to study the effects of a patent ductus arteriosus on superior mesenteric artery perfusion in preterm baboons.

DESIGN. Preterm baboons were delivered at 67% gestation and ventilated for 14 days. Enteral feedings were begun and advanced per protocol. Feeding studies were performed between days 10 and 14. Thirty-one studies were performed in animals with a closed ductus; 21 studies in those with a moderate patent ductus arteriosus shunt (pulmonary-to-systemic blood flow ratio ≥ 2:1). Two-dimensional echocardiographic and Doppler examinations were performed before and 10 and 30 minutes after a feeding. The groups were similar in birth weights, feeding volumes, and age at time of study.

RESULTS. During the preprandial period, baboons with a moderate patent ductus arteriosus had significantly lower blood pressures and systemic blood flows than animals with a closed ductus. Preprandial superior mesenteric artery-blood flow velocities did not differ between the open and closed ductus groups. Animals with a closed ductus increased their superior mesenteric artery-velocities (diastolic and mean) and decreased their superior mesenteric artery relative-vascular-resistance (mean blood pressure/mean superior mesenteric artery-velocity) by 10 minutes after the feeding. By 30 minutes after the feeding, the values were returning to their preprandial values. In contrast, in baboons in the patent ductus arteriosus group, there were no significant changes in superior mesenteric artery-velocity or resistance after the feeding, and superior mesenteric artery-velocities were significantly lower than those in the closed ductus group.

CONCLUSIONS. A moderate patent ductus arteriosus shunt limits the ability of the preterm newborn baboon to increase its postprandial mesenteric blood flow velocity. We speculate that this may interfere with its ability to meet increased intestinal metabolic demands and may contribute to feeding difficulties.
Briefing: Wind turbines and ground sourced energy at AMRC
Authors: Gardner Jason
Published: November 2008

This briefing describes the advanced manufacturing research centre (AMRC) at the University of Sheffield, UK, an environmentally innovative facility designed to be the UK's first carbon-neutral building of its type. At the heart of the AMRC's energy strategy are ground source heat pumps and on-site renewable electricity generation. This is designed to be a financially viable, repeatable solution.
Development of the Kirklees renewable energy toolkit, UK
Authors: Deacon K.
Published: November 2008

In today's modern built environment, the introduction of renewable energy technologies as part of new builds or refurbishments is increasing. Although national building regulations are starting to drive this through legislation, some local authorities are pushing boundaries further and championing renewable energy projects within their districts. Kirklees Council in Huddersfield, UK, is one such authority. Its policy for sustainable buildings encourages renewable energy technologies to be incorporated in non-domestic new builds and refurbishment projects once energy efficiency and energy conservation measures have been incorporated into the design. The key for successful implementation of such policies relating to renewables lies with the building designers. Therefore, a user-friendly renewable energy toolkit has been created to assist engineers and architects in the successful implementation of renewable energy technologies and, in turn, Kirklees policy within non-domestic building projects. The renewable energy toolkit consists of seven elements including a whole-life costing and carbon dioxide saving calculation tool, guidance checklists and a case study library to encourage the sharing of experience and best practice. An overview of the results of the testing phase of the toolkit provides an insight into the development process of the resource; brief examples utilising actual project data indicate the potential success of such a tool.
Embodied energy and carbon in construction materials
Authors: Hammond G. P. , Jones C. I.
Published: November 2008

The development of an open-access, reliable database for embodied energy and carbon (dioxide) emissions associated with the construction industry is described. The University of Bath's inventory of carbon and energy database lists almost 200 different materials. The data were extracted from peer-reviewed literature on the basis of a defined methodology and a set of five criteria. The database was made publicly available via an online website and has attracted significant interest from industry, academia, government departments and agencies, among others. Feedback from such professional users has played an important part in the choice of ‘best values’ for ‘cradleto-site’ embodied energy and carbon from the range found in the literature. The variation in published data stems from differences in boundary definitions (including geographic origin), age of the data sources and rigour of the original life-cycle assessments. Although principally directed towards UK construction, the material set included in the database is of quite wide application across the industrial sector. The use of the inventory is illustrated with the aid of 14 case studies of real-world new-build dwellings. It was observed that there was little difference between embodied energy and carbon for houses and apartments until external works were taken into account (energy inputs for roads, connecting pathways, etc.).
Use of Manure, Compost, and Cover Crops to Supplant Crop Residue Carbon in Corn Stover Removed Cropping Systems
Authors: Fronning Bradley E. , Thelen Kurt D. , Min Doo‐Hong
Published: November 2008

The emerging cellulosic‐based ethanol industry will likely use corn (Zea mays L.) stover as a feedstock source. Growers wishing to maintain, or increase soil C levels for agronomic and environmental benefit will need to use C amendments such as manure, compost, or cover crops, to replace C removed with the corn stover. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of cover crops, manure, and compost on short‐term C sequestration rates and net global warming potential (GWP) in a corn–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation with complete corn stover removal. Field experiments consisting of a corn–soybean–corn rotation with whole‐plant corn harvest, were conducted near East Lansing, MI over a 3‐yr period beginning in the fall of 2001. Carbon amendments were: compost, manure, and a winter cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) cover crop. Compost and manure amendments raised soil C levels in the 0 to 5 and 0 to 25 cm soil profile but not in the 5 to 25 cm soil profile over the relatively short‐term duration of the study. Total soil organic C (SOC) (kg ha−1) in the 0 to 25 cm profile increased by 41 and 25% for the compost and manure treatments, respectively, and decreased by 3% for the untreated check. Compost and manure soil amendments resulted in a net GWP of −1811 and −1060 g CO2 m−2 yr−1, respectively, compared to 12 g CO2 m−2 yr−1 for untreated.
Influence of Nonoptimal Ripener Applications and Postharvest Residue Retention on Sugarcane Second Ratoon Yields
Authors: Viator Ryan P. , Johnson Richard M. , Richard Edward P. , Waguespack Herman L. , Jackson Windell
Published: November 2008

Retention of sugarcane (interspecific hybrids of Saccharum spp.) postharvest residue and certain glyphosate ripener application regimes may independently reduce yields of the subsequent ratoon crop in wet climates. The objective of this experiment was to determine the effects of ripener application and ripener treatment to harvest intervals (THI) on yields of the treated first ratoon, and the combined effects of these treatments and postharvest residue retention on the subsequent second ratoon. Whole plots consisted of either a nontreated control or 0.21 kg a.e. ha−1 glyphosate applied to the first ratoon of cultivar LCP 85–384. Split‐plots consisted of THI of 40, 50, and 60 d for all plots. Split‐split plot treatments consisted of partial removal of postharvest residue or complete retention for second ratoon. Averaged across all THIs for the first ratoon, glyphosate increased sucrose yield by 300 kg ha−1 compared with the control. The 60 d THI reduced second ratoon cane and sucrose yields by 5.4 Mg ha−1 and 900 kg ha−1, respectively, compared with the means of the 40 and 50 THI and sucrose yields by 300 kg ha−1 compared with the control. Full residue retention reduced second ratoon cane and sucrose yield by 2.3 Mg ha−1 and 300 kg ha−1, respectively, compared with partial removal. Residue retention and glyphosate application were not negatively synergistic. Producers should remove postharvest residue from the row top and harvest ripener‐treated cane at a THI of 40 to 50 d to maximize sucrose yields in the first ratoon while also preventing yield losses in the subsequent second ratoon.
Continuous Corn Response to Residue Management and Nitrogen Fertilization
Authors: Coulter Jeffrey A. , Nafziger Emerson D.
Published: November 2008

Harvesting corn (Zea maysL.) residue in continuous corn (CC) may require changes in crop management for increased efficiency. Experiments were conducted in Illinois to determine how residue removal and tillage affect surface residue after planting and the response of CC to N fertilization. Partial removal of residue left 21 to 26% surface residue coverage with a chisel plow system, compared with 53 to 65% with no‐till. Across 2 yr with 92 to 128 mm rainfall during June and July, grain yield only responded to N fertilization with no‐till. When compared with full removal of residue in no‐till, no removal increased the economically optimum N fertilizer rate (EONR) by 58% and yield at the EONR from 8.6 to 10.3 Mg ha−1. Across five environments with 201 to 264 mm rainfall during June and July, yields with full removal of residue were 13.1 Mg ha−1with no‐till and 13.4 Mg ha−1with tillage. With partial and no residue removal, yields were 5 and 12% greater with the chisel plow than with the no‐tillage system, respectively. Across tillage systems in these environments, retaining all residue increased the EONR by 13% and decreased yield at the EONR by 4% when compared to full or partial removal of residue. On productive soils with adequate rainfall, removal of residue has the potential to raise yields and to lower N fertilizer requirements in the short term. This advantage, however, needs to be balanced against the need to retain adequate soil cover to maintain soil productivity.
Forage Yield and Competition Indices of Berseem Clover Intercropped with Barley
Authors: Vasilakoglou Ioannis , Dhima Kico
Published: November 2008

Berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.) should be intercropped with cereals for forage quality improvement, livestock bloat avoidance, and fertilizer requirements reduction. A 2‐yr field study was conducted using a cultivar of berseem clover and two barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars as sole crops compared to six berseem clover–barley intercrops planted at three seeding rates (250–338, 500–225, or 750–113 seeds m−2). The objective of the study was to compare forage and protein yield productivity for sole crops with crop mixtures. Land equivalent ratio (LER), relative crowding coefficient (RCC), aggressivity (A) which indicates the relative yield increase of legume in comparison with that of cereal in an intercropping system, and competition ratio (CR) were also assessed. Barley was cut once, while berseem clover was cut four times. Total dry matter (DM) yield produced by most intercrops was similar with that of berseem clover sole crop averaged 24.9 Mg ha−1, but greater than that of barley sole crops averaged 12.7 Mg ha−1. Berseem clover sole crop and its intercrop with barley at 750–113 seeds m−2 provided the greatest total protein yield. Total LER or RCC did not exceed unity for the intercrop, which indicated that there was no advantage of the intercrops over sole cropping systems. The results of this study indicated that intercropping of berseem clover with barley at the seeding rate of 750–113 seeds m−2 could be used as alternative practice of berseem clover sole crop for high forage and protein production.
The Politics of Health Care Reforms in U.S. Presidential Elections
Authors: Navarro Vicente
Published: November 2008

This article analyzes why people in the United States have major problems in accessing medical care that are due to financial constraints. The author suggests that the cause of these problems is the way in which medical care and elections are funded in the United States, with private sources being the largest component in the funding of both activities. The article includes a comparison of funding of the electoral process in the United States with similar electoral processes in the countries of the European Union, and postulates that privatization of the funding of U.S. elections (primary and general) is responsible for privatization of the funding of medical care—the root of people's problem in paying for their medical care. Privatization of election funding gives undue power to the economic, financial, and professional groups that dominate medicine in the United States.
The Benefits and Savings from Publicly Funded Clinical Trials of Prescription Drugs
Authors: Baker Dean
Published: November 2008

The current system of financing for clinical drug trials creates numerous perverse incentives. Since the trials are typically performed or controlled by the company who owns the patent, it has enormous incentives to report positive findings and conceal results that indicate the drug might be ineffective or even harmful. In addition, the large patent rents earned by drug companies are justified by the need to recoup research costs, approximately half of which are attributable to clinical trials. This article outlines a system of publicly financed clinical trials under which all results are fully available to the public. The system would be financed by paying lower drug prices under the Medicare drug program and other public health care programs.
Community Involvement in Hospital Governance in Britain: Evidence from before the National Health Service
Authors: Gorsky Martin
Published: November 2008

An important goal of policy in the British National Health Service (NHS) is to increase public involvement in health care governance. In the hospital sector this led in 2003 to the establishment of foundation trusts with “membership communities,” which aim to give local citizens a say in management. This is not the first attempt to introduce greater community participation in the running of British hospitals. Prior to the inception of the NHS in 1948, the hospital contributory scheme movement provided ordinary members of the public with the opportunity to sit on hospital management boards. The article examines the nature and extent of this earlier experiment with local democracy in hospital governance. It argues that historical precedent is not particularly encouraging, either for the prospect of broadening popular participation or for making services more responsive to local needs. Although today's context is very different, the tendency for managerial and professional interests to dominate the policy arena is a feature of both periods.
Nuclear Energy and Health
Authors: Cuttler Jerry M. , Pollycove Myron
Published: November 2008

Energy needs worldwide are expected to increase for the foreseeable future, but fuel supplies are limited. Nuclear reactors could supply much of the energy demand in a safe, sustainable manner were it not for fear of potential releases of radioactivity. Such releases would likely deliver a low dose or dose rate of radiation, within the range of naturally occurring radiation, to which life is already accustomed. The key areas of concern are discussed. Studies of actual health effects, especially thyroid cancers, following exposures are assessed. Radiation hormesis is explained, pointing out that beneficial effects are expected following a low dose or dose rate because protective responses against stresses are stimulated. The notions that no amount of radiation is small enough to be harmless and that a nuclear accident could kill hundreds of thousands are challenged in light of experience: more than a century with radiation and six decades with reactors. If nuclear energy is to play a significant role in meeting future needs, regulatory authorities must examine the scientific evidence and communicate the real health effects of nuclear radiation. Negative images and implications of health risks derived by unscientific extrapolations of harmful effects of high doses must be dispelled.
Rage against the Machine? Symbolic Violence in E-Learning Supported Tertiary Education
Authors: Johnson Nicola F. , Macdonald David , Brabazon Tara
Published: November 2008

The move toward online course facilitation in tertiary education has the intent of providing education at any time in any place to any person. However, the advent of blended learning and e-learning innovations has ostracised, marginalised or ignored those who cannot afford or who are unable to access the latest hardware and software to take advantage of these opportunities. The Web 2.0 age is an era of assumptions: assumptions of participation, literacy and democracy. Yet such inferences are based on the need for high-speed Internet connections, and the latest computers are standard requirements. Those without the ability to access these necessities are being indirectly marginalised by the universities, which is particularly ironic in an era of ‘widening participation’. This article reveals a few tears in the fabric of wiki-enabled democratic education. The authors argue that there is a community of students that are subjected to what Bourdieu termed symbolic violence. Digitisation in tertiary education is reinforcing what it has always been through its history – a haven of the wealthy and the advantaged.
Chronicles of Change: The Narrative Turn and E-Learning Research
Authors: Friesen Norm
Published: November 2008

Narrative case research has been widely utilized in educational inquiry to investigate different and changing positions and perspectives on questions of identity, curriculum and classroom practice. Despite the fact that case-study research of this kind is well suited to the investigation of changing technologies and their interpretation in different classroom settings, narrative methods have been little utilized in e-learning research. This article addresses this situation first of all by presenting psychologist Jerome Bruner's understanding of narrative as both a pervasive mode of cognition and a formal mode of inquiry – a dual emphasis that is central to understanding narrative as a research method. It then describes the elicitation of an individual teacher's narrative in an ‘active interview’ context, and presents her account of the adaptation of blog technology in a writing class. The article examines the ways in which teacher and technology are presented as agents of change in this narrative, and compares this to other, more common but less explicitly ‘narrative’ accounts in e-learning research. In doing so, the article makes significant reference to Jean-Francois Lyotard's notion of ‘meta-narratives’, arguing that that the overarching meta-narrative of technological progress still informs a great deal of research in e-learning. It concludes by making the case that the influence of this particular meta-narrative should be balanced by attention to multiple ‘micro-narratives’, which tend to tell rather different stories.
Amylase α-2A Autoantibodies
Authors: Endo Toyoshi , Takizawa Soichi , Tanaka Shoichiro , Takahashi Masashi , Fujii Hideki , Kamisawa Terumi , Kobayashi Tetsuro
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE— The pathogenesis of autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) and fulminant type 1 diabetes remains unclear, although it is known that immune-mediated processes severely compromise the endocrine and exocrine functions in both diseases.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS— We have screened a λTriplEx2 human pancreas cDNA library with serum from a patient with AIP and obtained positive clones. Sequence analysis revealed that 7 of 10 clones were identical to human amylase α-2A. Using a recombinant COOH-terminal amylase α-2A protein, we developed an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay system to detect autoantibodies against human amylase α-2A.

RESULTS— All 15 serum samples from patients with AIP recognized the recombinant protein, whereas sera from 25 patients with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis and sera from 25 patients with a pancreas tumor did not. Interestingly, 88% (15/17) of patients with fulminant type 1 diabetes were positive for an autoantibody against amylase α-2A. These antibodies were detected in 21% of patients with acute-onset type 1 diabetes (9 of 42) and 6% of type 2 diabetic patients (4 of 67).

CONCLUSIONS— These results suggest that an autoantibody against amylase α-2A is a novel diagnostic marker for both AIP and fulminant type 1 diabetes and that, clinically and immunologically, AIP and fulminant type 1 diabetes are closely related.
The New Zealand Mental Health Strategy: Is it Making Any Difference?
Authors: Wilson Janice
Published: November 2008

In June 1994, Government announced i the National Mental Health Strategy entitled ‘Looking Forward’ [1] outlining the goals and strategic directions for the development of mental health services in New Zealand for the next ten years, and which would underpin the on-going development and delivery of mental health services in this country. This strategy not only gave Government's policy directions for mental health, but provided the framework for resourcing mental health service (Table 1). In simple terms the strategy was about more and better services within Government's resources.
Managed Care—A Personal View
Authors: Morris Philip
Published: November 2008

In the last few months our College has begun a serious debate about funding methods for psychiatric services. One of the funding models being considered is that of ‘managed care’. I practised in the United States from 1987 to late 1992 at a time when US style managed care reached its apogee as a form of financing for medical care, including psychiatric services. With this experience I am in a position to make some observations about the nature of managed care and the likely implications if it is introduced into Australian psychiatric practice.
Symposium on Money and Psychiatry: An Introduction
Authors: Boyce Philip
Published: November 2008

Psychiatry, like all other branches of medicine, is presently undergoing substantial self-analysis and change. Health expenditure is escalating (perhaps not so much in psychiatry as in the more“high tech” disciplines), the population is increasing and the prevalence and impact of the common disorders is on the rise. At the same time, with Government funding increasingly under pressure, the proportion of the Budget allocated to health spending is declining—in fact, it is now significantly less than what is needed to achieve real health outcomes in the community. This is becoming commonplace in all industrialised societies but is particularly true in the Australian context, where a decrease in the number of people taking out private insurance has placed increasing demands on the public health system. A range of strategies has recently been put forward to look at ways of using the health dollar more efficiently as well as developing funding models for mental health services.
Socioeconomic Context of Mental Health Funding
Authors: Whiteford Harvey
Published: November 2008

In the context of microeconomic reform there are now clear distinctions being made between the funders, purchasers and providers of health services. This is leading to a blurring of the traditional distinction between providers in the public, non profit (NGO) and private sectors.
Resource Allocation and Moral Theory: Easy and Hard Problems
Authors: Meadows Graham
Published: November 2008

This paper is intended as a constructive response to“Managing Scarcity: a worked example using Burden and Efficacy”, from Professor Gavin Andrews. Professor Andrews” paper is helpful in proposing an approach to allocating resources which has some claims to being rational. However the presentation begs many questions. In this commentary, I set out to critique Professor Andrews” model of resource allocation from a moral theoretical perspective.
An Overview of Indigenous Suicide
Authors: Hunter Ernest
Published: November 2008

The public understanding of Aboriginal suicide has been shaped by specific events, in particular the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. The publicity surrounding the Commission contributed to a widespread view that Aboriginal suicide is common, most often occurring in custody, with indigenous prisoners being at much greater risk than non-indigenous inmates. While the Royal Commission demonstrated that these perceptions are incorrect, the images are tenacious and persistent. In fact, overall, indigenous Australians die by suicide at a rate very similar to that of the wider Australian population, the ratio of age-adjusted rates for deaths attributed to suicide for indigenous versus non-indigenous populations for the period 1990-1992 (excluding Queensland which did not, at that time, identify Aboriginality on death certificates) being 0.9 (Moller, 1996).
Making Sense and Learning Lessons from the Port Arthur Killings
Authors: Valent Paul
Published: November 2008

It is now a year since the Port Arthur massacre. But the lessons of the event have progressed little since the killer's answer to the question“Why?” when he said,“S'pose it happens, doesn't it?”

Yet we need to know what motivated the killer to give us hope to be able to prevent similar tragedies. If such knowledge can prevent future deaths, die deaths of the victims and the sufferings of the survivors may not have been totally in vain. Even if adding but little, it is in this spirit that this paper is written.
The Limited Resources Debate: Changing the Rules of the Game to a Win—Win Scenario
Authors: Harding Courtenay M
Published: November 2008

On 21 August 1997, during the THEMHS annual meeting in Sydney, Australia, a lively debate ensued about the differential uses of limited funding for mental health care
Themhs Debate: Who Should be Treated? Burden vs Health Gain
Authors: McGorry Patrick D
Published: November 2008

Once again the mental health profession should be grateful to Gavin Andrews for raising a fundamental question regarding the provision of services for people experiencing mental disorders and mental health problems. The introduction of the notion of health gain as an additional parameter influencing the distribution of resources is clearly attractive and logical. My purpose in this brief contribution is to point to some of the inevitable oversimplifications which seem to creep in when reform is strongly advocated. I will do this from a sympathetic standpoint but also from a safety-first perspective.
The Interface of Psychoanalysis and Hospital Psychiatry
Authors: Muir Brian
Published: November 2008

There is a saying that a house divided cannot stand. Covert and unacknowledged splits within an institution, whether the latter be a family, a business, a political party or a college like our own, make that institution vulnerable to external attacks. I wonder if Dr Wooldridge's torpedo would have had the devastating effect it did if our Fellows had been more tolerantly united in diversity, and in the knowledge that ours is a multidimensional practice with roots in biology, sociology, psychology and anthropology? United that is, in some acknowledgement that we need and are able to respect each other's differing perspectives. Since none of us can entirely escape the confines of our personal perspective, our view of truth is necessarily partial, but conversation can increase our access to the whole.
Cultural variability among nine isolates of Urocystis agropyri on wheat
Authors: Karwasra SS , Beniwal MS , Chhabra ML
Published: November 2008

Four temperatures and five different media were tested for cultural variability of nine geographical isolates of Urocystis agropyri (Preuss.) Schroet causing flag smut of wheat. Urocystis agropyri is extremely slow growing pathogen and each isolate responded differently at different temperatures. All the isolates/ collections grew well at 20Â°C after 45, 60, and 70 days after incubation. Ambala isolate was fast growing. PDA medium was found to be most suitable for the growth of all the nine isolates/collections. The average mycelial growth was also maximum on Potato Dextrose Agar Medium followed by Corn Meal Dextrose Agar, Oat Meal Dextrose Agar, Grain Meal Dextrose Agar and minimum on Wheat Meal Dextrose Agar. Key Words: Variability, media, isolates, wheat. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1593 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 347-351, September 2008
Yield and N use efficiency of wheat as influenced by bed planting and N application
Authors: Khaleque MA , Paul NK , Meisner Craig A
Published: November 2008

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was planted as winter crop using raised bed and conventional planting system with four N levels at Regional Wheat Research Station, Rajshahi (latitude 28Â°75â² N and longitude 92Â°58â² E), during November to March in 2002 and 2003 to study N content in grain and straw, uptake of total nitrogen, N use efficiency, fertilizer recovery percentage and grain yield. The highest N content in grain and straw were obtained from bed planting system with Shatabdi at 150% N treatment. Maximum total N uptake by the plants was found in bed elevation as compared to conventional planting system. The highest N use efficiency was observed at N zero treatment as compared to applied N levels. Shatabdi noticed highest N use efficiency among the crop varieties. The maximum fertilizer recovery percentage was noted in Shatabdi under bed planting system. The highest grain yield (2,555 kg/ha) was produced from bed planting system. Significantly the highest grain yield (2,929 kg/ha) was found in Shatabdi. The highest grain yield (3,746 kg/ha) was found when 150% N was applied. In bed planting system, the highest grain yield (3,323 kg/ha) was produced when 150% N was applied. The lowest grain yield (1,177 kg/ha) was obtained in zero N treatment. Among the varieties, Shatabdi was the best performer in bed planting system due to maximum nitrogen and protein content in grain and straw, maximum N use efficiency and fertilizer recovery percentage. Key Words: Bed planting, N content, N use efficiency and fertilizer recovery percentage. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1603 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 439-448, September 2008
Effect of storage containers and time on seed quality of wheat
Authors: Malaker PK , Mian IH , Bhuiyan KA , Akanda AM , Reza MMA
Published: November 2008

A study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of black point and percentages of germination, moisture content and different fungi associated with wheat seeds during storage in different types of container. Seeds of a widely cultivated variety Kanchan were stored in five types of containers viz., âdole'(bamboo made), earthen pitcher, tin container, polyethylene bag and refrigerator (10Â°C) for ten months at room temperature. Samples were taken at monthly interval beginning from the month of April (prior to storage). The seed moisture content and black point severity were found highest in dole resulting in the lowest percentage of seed germination. The highest germination percentage was observed under storage in refrigerator followed by polyethylene bag, tin container and earthen pitcher. The moisture content and black point infection increased and seed germination decreased with the increase of storage period. Prior to storage in April, the seed germination was 95%, which decreased to about 75% at the end often months of storage (in January). Various fungal flora associated with wheat seeds differed in their prevalence depending on the length of storage period and types of container used for storage. The population of field fungi viz., Alternaria alternata, Aiternaria triticina, Bipolaris sorokiniana, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Curvularia lunata, Epicoccum purpurascens and Fusarium spp. decreased while that of storage fungi viz., Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Nigrospora, Penicillium and Rhizopus increased with the progress of storage period. Key Words: Storage, seed quality, wheat. doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1606 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 469-477, September 2008
Efficacy of three trap crops against whitefly to manage tomato yellow leaf curl virus
Authors: Muqit Abdul , Akanda Abdul Mannan , Alam Mohammed Zinnatul
Published: November 2008

doi:10.3329/bjar.v33i3.1610 Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 33(3) : 515-517, September 2008
DIAGNOSTICS OF FLY-BY-WIRE CONTROL SYSTEM/KOMPIUTERIU REGULIUOJAMOS VALDYMO SISTEMOS DIAGNOSTIKA
Authors: Dołęga Boguslaw , Rogalski Tomasz
Published: November 2008

The paper describes the diagnostics of a fly‐by‐wire control system taken during the creation of this system. Special attention is paid to laboratory tests, which should prove the system could be tested in‐flight. An important kind of verification of the system is testing and reconfiguring fault detection and localization methods. The human factor is also taken into consideration.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje apibūdinama kompiuteriu reguliuojamos valdymo sistemos diagnostika šios sistemos kūrimo metu. Ypatingas dėmesys skirtas laboratoriniams bandymams, kurių rezultatai turi būti patikrinti skrydžio metu. Vienas svarbiausių sistemos verifikavimo būdų yra gedimų nustatymo ir lokalizavimo metodų bandymas. Taip pat įvertinamas ir žmogiškasis faktorius.
Absolute lymphocyte count at the time of first relapse predicts survival in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Porrata Luis F. , Ristow Kay , Habermann Thomas M. , Witzig Thomas E. , Inwards David J. , Markovic Svetomir N.
Published: November 2008

Peripheral blood absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) is a survival prognostic factor in hematological malignancies. No reports have addressed whether ALC at the time of first relapse (ALC‐R) predicts survival. Thus, we assessed the prognostic significance of ALC‐R in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Patients were required to have been diagnosed with first relapsed DLBCL, have ALC‐R values, and to be followed at Mayo Clinic, Rochester. From Feb 1987 until March 2006, 97 first relapsed DLBCL patients qualified for the study. The overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) were measured from the time of first relapse. The value of ALC‐R≥ 1.0 × 109/L was used for the analysis. Both groups (ALC‐R ≥ 1 or < 1 × 109/L) were balanced for the international prognostic index at relapse (IPI‐R) (P= 0.3), and for autologous stem cell transplantation (P= 0.4). Superior OS and PFS were observed with an ALC‐R ≥ 1.0 × 109/L (N= 60) versus ALC‐R < 1.0 × 109/L (N= 37) [median OS: 28.7 months, 5 years OS rates of 39% versus median OS: 10.2 months, 5 years OS rates of 14%,P< 0.002; and median PFS: 14.8 months, 5 years PFS rates of 21% versus median PFS: 6.5 months, 5 years PFS rates of 8%,P< 0.004, respectively]. ALC‐R was an independent prognostic factor for OS [RR = 0.4,P< 0.01] and PFS [RR = 0.5,P< 0.005]. ALC‐R predicts survival suggesting that host immunity is an important variable predicting survival in first relapsed DLBCL. Am. J. Hematol. 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved learning efficiency and increased student collaboration through use of virtual microscopy in the teaching of human pathology
Authors: Braun Mark W. , Kearns Katherine D.
Published: November 2008

The implementation of virtual microscopy in the teaching of pathology at the Bloomington, Indiana extension of the Indiana University School of Medicine permitted the assessment of student attitudes, use and academic performance with respect to this new technology. A gradual and integrated approach allowed the parallel assessment with respect to both the virtual and optical microscopes. Student survey data indicated that the virtual imaging technology was enthusiastically received, and aggregate grade comparisons with the previous classes showed no decrease in content mastery. Survey questions assessing a variety of parameters reveal improved time and resource utilization, as well as increased student collaboration. Even so, 50% of the respondents indicated having both optical and virtual microscopes available was preferable. Anat Sci Ed 1:240–246, 2008. © 2008 American Association of Anatomists.