bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Molecular-Weight and Total Adiponectin Levels and Incident Symptomatic Peripheral Artery Disease in Women
Authors: Ho Deborah Y. , Cook Nancy R. , Britton Kathryn A. , Kim Eunjung , Creager Mark A. , Ridker Paul M , Pradhan Aruna D.
Published: October 2011

Background—

Adiponectin is linked to reduced diabetes risk and may be antiatherogenic, yet clinical data show no consistent relationship with incident cardiovascular events, especially among women. To our knowledge, no prior prospective studies have evaluated adiponectin, including high-molecular-weight (HMW) adiponectin, and incident peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Methods and Results—

We evaluated the relationship of total adiponectin, HMW adiponectin, and the HMW-to-total adiponectin ratio with incident symptomatic PAD in a prospective, nested case-control study conducted within the Women's Health Study (n=110 cases, n=230 controls, frequency matched in strata defined by 5-year age categories, smoking, fasting status, and follow-up time; median cohort follow-up=13.2 years). Baseline median levels of HMW and total adiponectin were significantly lower in women developing PAD than in those remaining event free (HMW: 3.3 versus 3.8 μg/mL,
P
=0.0005; total: 5.6 versus 7.4 μg/mL,
P
<0.0001). The ratio did not differ significantly between groups. Age-adjusted PAD odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) across tertiles were 1.0, 0.66 (0.39–1.13), and 0.40 (0.22–0.74) for HMW and 1.0, 0.74 (0.43–1.25), and 0.35 (0.18–0.65) for total adiponectin (
P
trend
=0.004 and 0.001, respectively). Results were similar after adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors, use of postmenopausal hormone therapy, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1, leptin, hemoglobin A
1c
, and fasting insulin (adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for HMW: 1.0, 0.62 [0.29–1.34], 0.30 [0.12–0.74]; total: 1.0, 0.46 [0.22–1.00], 0.30 [0.12–0.76];
P
trend
=0.01 for both).

Conclusions—

Total and HMW adiponectin are inversely associated with incident PAD among initially healthy women. These prospective data support a protective role for this adipokine in peripheral atherosclerosis development.
Principles of Discrete Event System Specification model verification
Authors: Saadawi Hesham , Wainer Gabriel
Published: October 2011

Real-time systems modeling and verification is a complex task. In many cases, formal methods have been employed to deal with the complexity of these systems, but checking those models is usually unfeasible. Modeling and simulation methods introduce a means of validating these model’s specifications. In particular, Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) models can be used for this purpose. Here, we introduce a new extension to the DEVS formalism, called the Rational Time-Advance DEVS (RTA-DEVS), which permits modeling the behavior of real-time systems that can be modeled by the classical DEVS; however, RTA-DEVS models can be formally checked with standard model-checking algorithms and tools. In order to do so, we introduce a procedure to create timed automata (TA) models that are behaviorally equivalent to the original RTA-DEVS models. This enables the use of the available TA tools and theories for formal model checking. Further, we introduce a methodology to transform classic DEVS models to RTA-DEVS models, thus enabling formal verification of classic DEVS with an acceptable accuracy.
Design and simulation of a hierarchical priority fairness scheduler in an uplink Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access system
Authors: Nie Wei , Wang Houjun , Du Wenfeng , Xiong Naixue , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: October 2011

The IEEE 802.16 specification supports guarantees about quality of service (QoS) for transmitted packets, but does not describe a scheduling algorithm that can achieve them. This paper presents a packet scheduling scheme that both guarantees QoS as required, and ensures fairness among the subscriber stations. Our scheme uses a novel hierarchical scheduling algorithm for the uplink of a Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) system. We first schedule the real-time service according to the QoS requirement. This meets maximum delay and packet loss requirements of a subscriber station in WiMAX communication networks. In addition to satisfying the QoS requirements, we modify and extend the Proportional Fairness scheduling algorithm to what we call the Subscriber Stations Based Proportional Fairness algorithm, which allocates remaining bandwidth fairly amongst subscriber stations. The algorithm has been implemented and evaluated in a WiMAX simulation platform developed in OPNET. From the simulation results, we can see not only the QoS requirement is satisfied, but also it is fair to all subscriber stations in the WiMAX network.
The Biopolitical Economy of Time
Authors: Sharma Sarah
Published: October 2011

This article considers the political limitations of Hardt and Negri’s treatment of time in Empire and offers the concepts of “The Biopolitical Economy of Time” and “Recalibration” as a means to enliven the possibility to demand a social wage for all.
Predictors of upper limb recovery after stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Coupar Fiona , Pollock Alex , Rowe Phil , Weir Christopher , Langhorne Peter
Published: October 2011

Objective: To systematically review and summarize the current available literature on prognostic variables relating to upper limb recovery following stroke. To identify which, if any variables predict upper limb recovery following stroke.

Data sources: We completed searches in MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL and Cochrane CENTRAL databases. Searches were completed in November 2010.

Review methods: Studies were included if predictor variables were measured at baseline and linked to an outcome of upper limb recovery at a future time point. Exclusion criteria included predictor variables relating to response to treatment and outcome measurements of very specific upper limb impairments such as spasticity or pain. Two independent reviewers completed data extraction and assessed study quality.

Results: Fifty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Predictor variables which have been considered within these studies include; age, sex, lesion site, initial motor impairment, motor-evoked potentials andsomatosensory-evoked potentials. Initial measures of upper limb impairment and function were found to be the most significant predictors of upper limb recovery; odds ratio 14.84 (95% confidence intervals (CI) 9.08–24.25) and 38.62 (95% CI 8.40–177.53), respectively.

Conclusions: Interpretation of these results is complicated by methodological factors including variations in study populations, upper limb motor outcome scales, timing of baseline and outcome assessments and predictors selected. The most important predictive factors for upper limb recovery following stroke appears to the initial severity of motor impairment or function.
Literature Reviews on Wind Turbines and Health
Authors: Horner Brett , Jeffery Roy D. , Krogh Carmen M. E.
Published: October 2011

Industrial wind turbines (IWTs) are a new source of community noise to which relatively few people have yet been exposed. IWTs are being erected at a rapid pace in proximity to human habitation. Some people report experiencing adverse health effects as a result of living in the environs of IWTs. In order to address public concerns and assess the plausibility of reported adverse health effects, a number of literature reviews have been commissioned by various organizations. This article explores some of the recent literature reviews on IWTs and adverse health effects. It considers the completeness, accuracy, and objectivity of their contents and conclusions. While some of the literature reviews provide a balanced assessment and draw reasonable scientific conclusions, others should not be relied on to make informed decisions. The article concludes that human health research is required to develop authoritative guidelines for the siting of IWTs in order to protect the health and welfare of exposed individuals.
Use of Creative Arts as a Complementary Therapy by Rural Women Coping With Chronic Illness
Authors: Kelly Catherine G. , Cudney Shirley , Weinert Clarann
Published: October 2011

Purpose: To investigate the spontaneous use of creative arts as a complementary therapy by rural women in the Western United States who are coping with chronic illness. Design: Women to Women Project was an 11-week research-based computer intervention that provided health education and support to rural women with chronic illnesses in an effort to help them better adapt to living with chronic conditions. Method: Through the use of text queries, messages posted to an unprompted, online support and health education forum were examined for references to the spontaneous use of creative arts and their influence as a complementary therapy for dealing with chronic illness. Findings: In three identified themes—coping with pain, relaxation/quality of life, and giving back to others—participants strongly suggested that creative activity was an important strategy for coping with chronic illness and that it contributed to reduced pain and increased overall well-being, regardless of whether it was the expression of a previously learned skill or a practice established after the onset of chronic illness. Conclusion: The use of creative arts and developing art-making interventions could significantly benefit rural individuals coping with chronic illness. Discovering methods of implementing creative arts interventions in rural populations warrants further study.
Optimizing tool-path generation for three-axis machining of a sculptured impeller blade surface
Authors: Fan H-Z , Xi G
Published: October 2011

This paper presents an algorithm to optimize the tool-path generation for three-axis machining of a sculptured impeller blade surface. Owing to the specific character of the sculptured compressor impeller blade surface, four sub-surfaces are obtained by combining the steepest-ascent tool-path generation method with the specialty of the fluid flow in the duct composed by the blade surfaces. Slighter curvature and more efficient calculations are achieved on the four sub-surfaces compared with that on the entire sculptured blade surface. An optimizing algorithm is proposed to calculate the four tool sub-paths on the sub-surfaces, and efficient machining is achieved by using the efficient bull-nose-end mill. The global–local machining strategy is advanced by connecting the tool paths on the sub-surfaces and the different feed direction is proposed due to the up-milling method. The proposed three-axis machining optimizing algorithm achieves consummate equilibrium between the efficiency and aerodynamics, and significantly reduces the machining time and the machine cost compared with conventional five-axis machining. An example test mould and its practical machining are also presented in the paper.
Structural analysis by bond graph approach: duality between causal and bicausal procedures
Authors: El Feki M , Jardin A , Marquis-Favre W , Krähenbühl L , Thomasset D
Published: October 2011

The infinite structure of linear time-invariant systems has been principally used to solve control problems. Nevertheless, this system characterization appears interesting in the design and sizing of mechatronic systems as well. Indeed, based on the bond graph language and inverse modelling, a methodology has already been developed for sizing mechatronic systems according to energy and dynamic criteria. One of the novelties of this methodology is its structural analysis step. This step enables structural properties to be deduced and helps in the formulation of the specifications. The aim of this paper is to add new graphical procedures to the structural analysis step to determine some structural properties (infinite pole orders and relative orders) from the inverse model (bicausal bond graph model). The structural analysis of the inverse model remains interesting since the essential orders are immediately obtained on the bicausal model. A discussion is carried out regarding the duality between the causal and bicausal procedures.
Variation in daily shedding patterns of Staphylococcus aureus in naturally occurring intramammary infections
Authors: Walker Jennifer B. , Rajala-Schultz Päivi J. , Walker William L. , Mathews Jennifer L. , Gebreyes Wondwossen A. , DeGraves Fred J.
Published: October 2011

The goal of the current prospective field study was to examine the shedding patterns of naturally occurring Staphylococcus aureus intramammary infections and the association of pulsed field gel electrophoresis pulsotype with shedding. Milk samples from 5 multiparous and 2 primiparous cows identified with S. aureus intramammary infections were collected for 21 consecutive days, 3 times throughout the lactation (63 days total). Cyclicity of each quarter was evaluated using a locally weighted regression. Pulsed field gel electrophoresis was used for genotypic cluster comparisons to evaluate the association of strain type and shedding patterns. Although the amount of shedding varied greatly, 97.5% of the samples were culture positive. There were notable differences in S. aureus shedding patterns among cows as well as within cows; however, no consistent cyclic pattern was identified. Quarters infected with S. aureus isolates grouped in genotypic cluster 1 appeared to shed at consistently higher levels with a median cfu/0.01 ml of 154 (ln[cfu] = 5.0). In comparing ln(cfu)/0.01 ml between genotypic clusters over the first 21-day sample period, accounting for the effect of sample day, samples collected from quarters infected with S. aureus in genotypic cluster 1 had a 1.5 times greater ln(cfu) than those collected from quarters infected with strains in genotypic cluster 2. The ability to detect S. aureus from day to day was very consistent. The current study examining naturally occurring intramammary infections would support the conclusions of other studies suggesting that a single quarter sample would be adequate in determining S. aureus intramammary infections status.
I do what I’m told, sort of: Reformed subjects, unruly citizens, and parole
Authors: Werth Robert
Published: October 2011

Although parole and the processes of prisoner reentry have received considerable attention, how individuals on parole respond to the State’s efforts to regulate their conduct and govern their personhood remains under theorized. Drawing from ethnographic research with individuals on parole, this article examines how parolees navigate the social control inherent in this penal practice. Parole entails both productive and repressive power; responsibilizing and de-responsibilizing elements. The parole agency’s efforts to govern up-close—through supervision and regulation of everyday conduct—are frequently met with subversion, resistance, and hostility, while efforts to govern-at-a-distance are more productive. In general paroled subjects reproduce the injunction to transform their lives, becoming committed to ‘going straight’, ethical reformation, and responsible citizenship. This ‘reformed subjectivity’ guides how individuals enact parole, but does not reflect subjection or their full acquiescence to penal power. Rather, by engaging selectively with the rules, they render their conditions of parole malleable. These individuals on parole are committed to going straight but doing so, as much as possible, on their own terms. In this way, the reformed subjectivities they display both reflect and resist penal power.
Representations of (new) Black masculinity: A news-making case study
Authors: Tyree Tia CM , Byerly Carolyn M , Hamilton Kerry-Ann
Published: October 2011

Representations of Black masculinity in popular culture remain a focal point of social science and cultural studies research. Yet, research shows that Black men are negatively portrayed in news stories. Therefore, when a series on Black men, conceived and carried out primarily by a Black journalistic team, was published in a national agenda-setting newspaper, The Washington Post, it was important to question if Black masculinity was represented in this same light or represented in other, more positive ways. The purpose of this research was to investigate whether the series succeeded in reshaping the image of Black men and to what extent it exhibited Jackson and Dangerfield’s five factors of Black masculine positionality. The study found that slightly more than 50 percent of the stories presented a counter-stereotype, showing complexity in Black men’s lives. However, some stories left Black men ‘voiceless on the sidelines’. The study illustrates the difficulties even a well-planned series can face when trying to break out of conventional reporting tendencies.
Soft journalism, politics and environmental risk: An Australian story
Authors: Lester Libby , Hutchins Brett
Published: October 2011

Complex environmental science issues are regularly reported by the news media in highly personalized and symbolic terms in order to make the consequences of environmental degradation and risk comprehensible to the public. This article presents a case study showing how the tension between political statements, human-interest narratives and scientific credibility in this style of reporting can undercut citizen-led claims about environmental risk factors. This tension creates discursive openings that government and industry use to deny the existence of these factors or contest their consequences. The evidence presented in support of this argument relates to episodes of Australian Story, a popular ‘soft journalism’ programme, shown on the national public service broadcaster during the 2010 Tasmanian state election campaign. The timing and content of this programme produced extensive debate across multiple mediums about environmental risks, providing insight into the relationship between politics, journalism and the contested status of environmental science knowledge claims in the news.
Treme for Tourists
Authors: Rathke Wade
Published: October 2011

As enjoyable as it is for New Orleans to get some of the glitz and get of all star attention, sadly HBO’s Treme is a sanitized tourist version of the city and its people with an appealing soundtrack. The heart of the citizen struggle to rebuild and recover by creating enough power to save their communities, create livelihoods, protect their families, and advance centuries of unique culture is largely lost and missing in the caricature of Treme.
What information should a sponsor of a randomized trial receive during its conduct?
Authors: Anand Sonia S , Wittes Janet , Yusuf Salim
Published: October 2011

Background The relationship and roles among the steering committee, the Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), and the sponsor of a randomized clinical trial (RCT) must be carefully defined to ensure the integrity of the trial.

Purpose We present an unusual scenario that arose during the conduct of a large RCT in Canada that involved the relationship of the steering committee and the DSMB with the peer review sponsor.

Methods Case study of a large RCT conducted in Canada and a commentary on the roles and responsibilities of the steering committee, DSMB, and sponsor.

Conclusions This case illustrates the need for funding agencies to understand the importance of respecting the independence of the DSMB and the need to keep confidential emerging trends regarding study results, including the conditional probability, during the conduct of a trial.
Identifying the long-term needs of stroke survivors using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health
Authors: Sumathipala Kethakie , Radcliffe Eloise , Sadler Euan , Wolfe Charles DA , McKevitt Christopher
Published: October 2011

Objectives: To investigate how contextual factors, as described by the World Health Organisation’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), impact on stroke survivors’ functioning and how needs are perceived in the long term after stroke.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 35 participants between 1 and 11 years after stroke. Data were analysed thematically using the ICF conceptual framework.

Results: Long-term needs related to activities of daily living, social participation, mobility aids, home adaptations, housing, financial support, rehabilitation, information and transport. Participants identified a range of ICF environmental and personal factors including ‘support and relationships,’ ‘products and technology,’ ‘services, systems and policies,’ ‘attitudes,’ life experiences, social position and personal attitudes. Interactions between these contextual factors shaped functioning and how long-term needs were perceived. Social support from family and friends was a key facilitator of functioning for most participants, buffering the impact of disabilities and mediating perceived needs. Needs were not always stroke specific as many participants experienced other health problems.

Discussion: The ICF framework was useful to investigate how contextual factors shaped functioning and mediated perceived long-term needs. Development of services to meet long-term needs among stroke survivors should consider the range of environmental and personal factors affecting how needs are perceived.
Six year outcome excision of the trapezium for trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis: is it improved by ligament reconstruction and temporary Kirschner wire insertion?
Authors: Salem H. , Davis T. R. C.
Published: October 2011

This randomized prospective study compared the treatment of trapeziometacarpal joint osteoarthritis with a) trapeziectomy with no ligament reconstruction, no soft tissue interposition and no temporary Kirschner wire stabilization (Group T); b) trapeziectomy with flexor carpi radialis ligament reconstruction and interposition and temporary K-wire stabilization (Group T+LRTI). We followed 99 patients with 114 thumbs (59 T and 55 T+LRTI) for a mean of 6.2 (range, 4.2–8.1) years. There were no significant differences between the two treatments in any subjective or objective outcome measure at 6 year follow-up. Eighty-two percent of the thumbs were painless or only ached after use. The DASH (Group T mean, 31; 95% CI, 26–42: Group T+LRTI mean 30; 95% CI, 22–35) and Patient Evaluation Measure (Group T mean, 35; 95% CI, 29–41: Group T+LRTI mean 34; 95% CI, 27–39) scores were significantly better than preoperatively. Thumb key pinch strength did not differ significantly between the two treatment groups (Group T mean 3.7 kg: 95% CI, 3.3–4.2: Group T+LRTI mean 4.1 kg, 95% CI, 3.7–4.7) and was not significantly different from the preoperative key pinch strength. This study does not provide evidence to support the use of LRTI and temporary K-wire stabilization after trapeziectomy.
Neuropathogenesis of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (H7N1) in experimentally infected chickens
Authors: Chaves Aida J , Busquets Núria , Valle Rosa , Rivas Raquel , Vergara-Alert Júlia , Dolz Roser , Ramis Antonio , Darji Ayub , Majó Natàlia
Published: October 2011

In order to understand the mechanism of neuroinvasion of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) into the central nervous system (CNS) of chickens, specific pathogen free chickens were inoculated with a H7N1 HPAIV. Blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), nasal cavity and brain tissue samples were obtained from 1 to 4 days post-inoculation (dpi) of infected and control chickens. Viral antigen topographical distribution, presence of influenza A virus receptors in the brain, as well as, the role of the olfactory route in virus CNS invasion were studied using different immunohistochemistry techniques. Besides, viral RNA load in CSF and blood was quantified by means of a quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Viral antigen was observed widely distributed in the CNS, showing bilateral and symmetrical distribution in the nuclei of the diencephalon, mesencephalon and rhombencephalon. Viral RNA was detected in blood and CSF at one dpi, indicating that the virus crosses the blood-CSF-barrier early during infection. This early dissemination is possibly favoured by the presence of Siaα2,3 Gal and Siaα2,6 Gal receptors in brain vascular endothelial cells, and Siaα2,3 Gal receptors in ependymal and choroid plexus cells. No viral antigen was observed in olfactory sensory neurons, while the olfactory bulb showed only weak staining, suggesting that the virus did not use this pathway to enter into the brain. The sequence of virus appearance and the topographical distribution of this H7N1 HPAIV indicate that the viral entry occurs via the haematogenous route, with early and generalized spreading through the CSF.
Constructing a robust protein-protein interaction network by integrating multiple public databases
Authors: Martha Venkata-Swamy , Liu Zhichao , Guo Li , Su Zhenqiang , Ye Yanbin , Fang Hong , Ding Don , Tong Weida , Xu Xiaowei
Published: October 2011

Background

Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are a critical component for many underlying biological processes. A PPI network can provide insight into the mechanisms of these processes, as well as the relationships among different proteins and toxicants that are potentially involved in the processes. There are many PPI databases publicly available, each with a specific focus. The challenge is how to effectively combine their contents to generate a robust and biologically relevant PPI network.

Methods

In this study, seven public PPI databases, BioGRID, DIP, HPRD, IntAct, MINT, REACTOME, and SPIKE, were used to explore a powerful approach to combine multiple PPI databases for an integrated PPI network. We developed a novel method called k-votes to create seven different integrated networks by using values of k ranging from 1-7. Functional modules were mined by using SCAN, a Structural Clustering Algorithm for Networks. Overall module qualities were evaluated for each integrated network using the following statistical and biological measures: (1) modularity, (2) similarity-based modularity, (3) clustering score, and (4) enrichment.

Results

Each integrated human PPI network was constructed based on the number of votes (k) for a particular interaction from the committee of the original seven PPI databases. The performance of functional modules obtained by SCAN from each integrated network was evaluated. The optimal value for k was determined by the functional module analysis. Our results demonstrate that the k-votes method outperforms the traditional union approach in terms of both statistical significance and biological meaning. The best network is achieved at k=2, which is composed of interactions that are confirmed in at least two PPI databases. In contrast, the traditional union approach yields an integrated network that consists of all interactions of seven PPI databases, which might be subject to high false positives.

Conclusions

We determined that the k-votes method for constructing a robust PPI network by integrating multiple public databases outperforms previously reported approaches and that a value of k=2 provides the best results. The developed strategies for combining databases show promise in the advancement of network construction and modeling.
Calcium-stores mediate adaptation in axon terminals of Olfactory Receptor Neurons in Drosophila
Authors: Murmu Meena S , Stinnakre Jacques , Réal Eléonore , Martin Jean-René
Published: October 2011

Background

In vertebrates and invertebrates, sensory neurons adapt to variable ambient conditions, such as the duration or repetition of a stimulus, a physiological mechanism considered as a simple form of non-associative learning and neuronal plasticity. Although various signaling pathways, as cAMP, cGMP, and the inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptor (InsP3R) play a role in adaptation, their precise mechanisms of action at the cellular level remain incompletely understood. Recently, in Drosophila, we reported that odor-induced Ca2+-response in axon terminals of olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) is related to odor duration. In particular, a relatively long odor stimulus (such as 5 s) triggers the induction of a second component involving intracellular Ca2+-stores.

Results

We used a recently developed in-vivo bioluminescence imaging approach to quantify the odor-induced Ca2+-activity in the axon terminals of ORNs. Using either a genetic approach to target specific RNAs, or a pharmacological approach, we show that the second component, relying on the intracellular Ca2+-stores, is responsible for the adaptation to repetitive stimuli. In the antennal lobes (a region analogous to the vertebrate olfactory bulb) ORNs make synaptic contacts with second-order neurons, the projection neurons (PNs). These synapses are modulated by GABA, through either GABAergic local interneurons (LNs) and/or some GABAergic PNs. Application of GABAergic receptor antagonists, both GABAA or GABAB, abolishes the adaptation, while RNAi targeting the GABABR (a metabotropic receptor) within the ORNs, blocks the Ca2+-store dependent component, and consequently disrupts the adaptation. These results indicate that GABA exerts a feedback control. Finally, at the behavioral level, using an olfactory test, genetically impairing the GABABR or its signaling pathway specifically in the ORNs disrupts olfactory adapted behavior.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results indicate that a relatively long lasting form of adaptation occurs within the axon terminals of the ORNs in the antennal lobes, which depends on intracellular Ca2+-stores, attributable to a positive feedback through the GABAergic synapses.
The effect of testosterone and a nutritional supplement on hospital admissions in under-nourished, older people
Authors: Piantadosi Cynthia , Visvanathan Renuka , Naganathan Vasi , Hunter Peter , Cameron Ian D , Lange Kylie , Karnon Jonathan , Chapman Ian M
Published: October 2011

Background

Weight loss and under-nutrition are relatively common in older people, and are associated with poor outcomes including increased rates of hospital admissions and death. In a pilot study of 49 undernourished older, community dwelling people we found that daily treatment for one year with a combination of testosterone tablets and a nutritional supplement produced a significant reduction in hospitalizations. We propose a larger, multicentre study to explore and hopefully confirm this exciting, potentially important finding (NHMRC project grant number 627178).

Methods/Design

One year randomized control trial where subjects are allocated to either oral testosterone undecanoate and high calorie oral nutritional supplement or placebo medication and low calorie oral nutritional supplementation. 200 older community-dwelling, undernourished people [Mini Nutritional Assessment score <24 and either: a) low body weight (body mass index, in kg/m2: <22) or b) recent weight loss (>7.5% over 3 months)]. Hospital admissions, quality-adjusted life years, functional status, nutritional health, muscle strength, body composition and other variables will be assessed.

Discussion

The pilot study showed that combined treatment with an oral testosterone and a supplement drink was well tolerated and safe, and reduced the number of people hospitalised and duration of hospital admissions in undernourished, community dwelling older people. This is an exciting finding, as it identifies a treatment which may be of substantial benefit to many older people in our community. We now propose to conduct a multi-centre study to test these findings in a substantially larger subject group, and to determine the cost effectiveness of this treatment.

Trial registration

Australian Clinical Trial Registry: ACTRN 12610000356066
Lhx2 differentially regulates Sox9, Tcf4 and Lgr5 in hair follicle stem cells to promote epidermal regeneration after injury
Authors: Mardaryev Andrei N. , Meier Natalia , Poterlowicz Krzysztof , Sharov Andrey A. , Sharova Tatyana Y. , Ahmed Mohammed I. , Rapisarda Valentina , Lewis Christopher , Fessing Michael Y. , Ruenger Thomas M. , Bhawan Jag , Werner Sabine , Paus Ralf , Botchkarev Vladimir A.
Published: October 2011

The Lhx2 transcription factor plays essential roles in morphogenesis and patterning of ectodermal derivatives as well as in controlling stem cell activity. Here, we show that during murine skin morphogenesis, Lhx2 is expressed in the hair follicle (HF) buds, whereas in postnatal telogen HFs Lhx2+ cells reside in the stem cell-enriched epithelial compartments (bulge, secondary hair germ) and co-express selected stem cell markers (Sox9, Tcf4 and Lgr5). Remarkably, Lhx2+ cells represent the vast majority of cells in the bulge and secondary hair germ that proliferate in response to skin injury. This is functionally important, as wound re-epithelization is significantly retarded in heterozygous Lhx2 knockout (+/–) mice, whereas anagen onset in the HFs located closely to the wound is accelerated compared with wild-type mice. Cell proliferation in the bulge and the number of Sox9+ and Tcf4+ cells in the HFs closely adjacent to the wound in Lhx2+/– mice are decreased in comparison with wild-type controls, whereas expression of Lgr5 and cell proliferation in the secondary hair germ are increased. Furthermore, acceleration of wound-induced anagen development in Lhx2+/– mice is inhibited by administration of Lgr5 siRNA. Finally, Chip-on-chip/ChIP-qPCR and reporter assay analyses identified Sox9, Tcf4 and Lgr5 as direct Lhx2 targets in keratinocytes. These data strongly suggest that Lhx2 positively regulates Sox9 and Tcf4 in the bulge cells, and promotes wound re-epithelization, whereas it simultaneously negatively regulates Lgr5 in the secondary hair germ and inhibits HF cycling. Thus, Lhx2 operates as an important regulator of epithelial stem cell activity in the skin response to injury.
Subjective Probabilities on a State Space
Authors: Karni Edi
Published: October 2011

This paper extends the analytical framework of Karni (2011) to include a state space and advances a choice-based definition of subjective probabilities on this space. These probabilities represent the beliefs of Bayesian decision makers regarding the likelihoods of events, thus resolving a long-standing, fundamental difficulty with the definition of subjective probabilities. (JEL D81, D83)
How do 401(k)s Affect Saving? Evidence from Changes in 401(k) Eligibility
Authors: Gelber Alexander M
Published: October 2011

This paper investigates the effect of 401(k) eligibility on saving. To address the possibility that eligibility correlates across individuals with their unobserved tastes for saving, I examine a change in eligibility: some individuals are initially ineligible for their 401(k) but become eligible when they have worked at their firm long enough. I find that eligibility raises 401(k) balances. Other financial assets and net worth respond insignificantly to eligibility, but the confidence intervals do not rule out substantial responses. In response to eligibility, IRA assets increase, consistent with a “crowd-in” hypothesis, and accumulation of cars decreases.(JEL D14, E21, J26)
Medicare Part D and the Financial Protection of the Elderly
Authors: Engelhardt Gary V , Gruber Jonathan
Published: October 2011

We examine the impact of the expansion of public prescription-drug insurance coverage from Medicare Part D and find evidence of substantial crowd-out. Using the 2002–2007 waves of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey, we estimate the extension of Part D benefits resulted in 75 percent crowd-out of both prescription-drug insurance coverage and expenditures of those 65 and older. Part D is associated with sizeable reductions in out-of-pocket spending, much of which has accrued to a small proportion of the elderly. On average, we estimate a welfare gain from Part D comparable to the deadweight cost of program financing. (JEL H51, I18, J14)
Ground/Wall Effects on a Tilting Ducted Fan
Authors: Hosseini Zahra , Ramirez-Serrano Alejandro , Martinuzzi Robert J.
Published: October 2011

Mini-vertical take-off and landing aircraft have a wide range of potential applications in urban areas. In flights in confined spaces, however, the aerodynamics of the lifting devices (e.g., tilted ducted fans) change which significantly affects the flight performance. Therefore, for a successful flight, a model is required to provide the control system with the environmental effects on the lifting devices in real time. This paper presents the study performed on a tilted ducted fan to characterize ground/wall effects and develop a practical model for online flight control. For this, computational fluid dynamic simulations were performed in Fluent, for a ducted fan at different distances from ground/wall and with different tilt angles. The incompressible Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) equations, with the standard k-ε model and the non-equilibrium wall function, were solved. To reduce the complexity of meshing, the fan was represented by Virtual Blade Model (VBM). A comprehensive study was performed to show that, by using the method of images and representing the fan as a single potential dipole, the fan performance can be predicted accurately on a practical range of operation. The developed potential flow model highly reduces the computational requirements and is practical to use for online semi-autonomous or autonomous navigation of ducted fan aerial vehicles.
The Evaluation of a Biologically Inspired Engineered MAV Wing Compared to the Manduca Sexta Wing under Simulated Flapping Conditions
Authors: DeLeón Nathanial E. , Palazotto Anthony
Published: October 2011

In recent years, researchers have expressed a vested interest in the concepts surrounding flapping wing micro air vehicles (FWMAVs) that are capable of both range and complex maneuvering. Most research in this arena has found itself concentrated on topics such as flapping dynamics and the associated fluid-structure interactions inherent in the motion; however there still remain a myriad of questions concerning the structural qualities intrinsic to the wings themselves. Using nature as the template for design, FWMAV wings were constructed using carbon fiber and Kapton and tested under simplified flapping conditions by analyzing ‘frozen’ digital images of the deformed wing by methods of photogrammetry. This flapping motion was achieved via the design and construction of a flapper that emulates several of the kinematic features that can be seen in naturally occurring flyers. The response to this motion was then compared to the inspiring specimen's wings, the North American Hawkmoth ( Manduca Sexta), under the same flapping conditions in order to identify some of the key features that nature has deemed necessary for successful flight. Results showed that though the engineered wing emulated several of the structural characteristics of the biological wing; it still required some design modifications to compare more closely to the biological wing in the flapping motion. Additionally, this research also speaks to the effects of air on the biological wing.
Plant-type mitochondrial RNA editing in the protist Naegleria gruberi: FIGURE 1.
Authors: Rüdinger Mareike , Fritz-Laylin Lillian , Polsakiewicz Monika , Knoop Volker
Published: October 2011

RNA editing converts hundreds of cytidines into uridines in plant mitochondrial and chloroplast transcripts. Recognition of the RNA editing sites in the organelle transcriptomes requires numerous specific, nuclear-encoded RNA-binding pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins with characteristic carboxy-terminal protein domain extensions (E/DYW) previously thought to be unique to plants. However, a small gene family of such plant-like PPR proteins of the DYW-type was recently discovered in the genome of the protist Naegleria gruberi. This raised the possibility that plant-like RNA editing may occur in this amoeboflagellate. Accordingly, we have investigated the mitochondrial transcriptome of Naegleria gruberi and here report on identification of two sites of C-to-U RNA editing in the cox1 gene and in the cox3 gene, both of which reconstitute amino acid codon identities highly conserved in evolution. An estimated 1.5 billion years of evolution separate the heterolobosean protist Naegleria from the plant lineage. The new findings either suggest horizontal gene transfer of RNA editing factors or that plant-type RNA editing is evolutionarily much more ancestral than previously thought and yet to be discovered in many other ancient eukaryotic lineages.
Individual Differences in Brand Schematicity
Authors: Puligadda Sanjay , Ross William T. , Grewal Rajdeep
Published: October 2011

Brand schematicity refers to a generalized consumer predisposition to process information using brand schema. This research uses schema theory to build the theoretical groundwork for brand schematicity and reports seven studies conducted to measure, validate, and establish the nature of the construct. Studies 1 and 2 pertain to a scale developed to measure brand schematicity, Study 3 measures the construct using response times, and Study 4 situates the construct in a nomological network of associated constructs. Studies 5 and 6 test the predictive validity of the brand schematicity construct, and Study 7 uses memory clustering to provide evidence of the schematic nature of the construct that represents an inherent difference in the way consumers organize and utilize brand information. These investigations establish the validity of brand schematicity and its associated scale, as well as reveal that brand schematicity influences the role of brand concept consistency in brand extension evaluations, suggesting the possible moderating role of the construct in a wide variety of brand-related relationships.
Modality and negation in the history of Low German
Authors: Breitbarth Anne
Published: October 2011

The aim of the present paper is to study and account for the scopal interaction between modal verbs and sentential negation in historical Low German. A number of proposals concerning the scope of negation in clauses with modal verbs for other languages (mainly English) will be evaluated against the empirical findings from historical Low German. It will be argued that syntactic accounts of this interaction are not empirically adequate, and that a lexical account will have to be complemented by a pragmatic one in order to account for the behaviour and development of some modal verbs.
Capital, Corporations, and Their Discontents in Making California's Constitutions, 1849–1911
Authors: Rolston Arthur
Published: October 2011

This article traces California's constitutional development from 1849 through 1911, examining how and why California's constitution developed into a quasi-legislative document that constitutionalized policies involving corporations, banks, railroads, taxes, and other economic relationships, thereby limiting the power of the legislature. I argue that drafters of California's constitutions deliberately curtailed legislative power and transformed class issues into constitutional ones. California's experience was consistent with state constitutional developments throughout the United States, especially in the West. Advocates of constitutional reform saw state legislatures as corrupt captives of "capitalists" and other "special interests" that could not to be trusted to serve the people's interests. These issues permeated debates over constitutional reform in California and other states from the 1840s through the initial decades of the twentieth century, leading to the adoption of the initiative and referendum.
Fighting the Peace at Home: Mexican American Veterans and the 1944 GI Bill of Rights
Authors: Rosales Steven
Published: October 2011

The Serviceman's Readjustment Act of 1944 has become the focus of increased scrutiny. Many of the bill's limitations in terms of race, gender, and sexuality have recently been explored. This article examines the postwar construction of veteran identity by Mexican American veterans and the GI Bill's ultimate impact on that process. I place particular emphasis on economic mobility, political activism, and the psychiatric and medical services provided by the Veterans Administration to illustrate how public policy influenced that emerging identity. Moreover, I challenge conclusions that adopt an either/or binary by illustrating how the matrix of military service, the GI Bill, and citizenship influenced postwar civic engagement and varying degrees of socioeconomic advancement for Mexican American veterans.
Estimating the Probability of Neonatal Early-Onset Infection on the Basis of Maternal Risk Factors
Authors: Puopolo Karen M. , Draper David , Wi Soora , Newman Thomas B. , Zupancic John , Lieberman Ellice , Smith Myesha , Escobar Gabriel J.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To develop a quantitative model to estimate the probability of neonatal early-onset bacterial infection on the basis of maternal intrapartum risk factors.

METHODS:

This was a nested case-control study of infants born at ≥34 weeks' gestation at 14 California and Massachusetts hospitals from 1993 to 2007. Case-subjects had culture-confirmed bacterial infection at <72 hours; controls were randomly selected, frequency-matched 3:1 according to year and birth hospital. We performed multivariate analyses and split validation to define a predictive model based only on information available in the immediate perinatal period.

RESULTS:

We identified 350 case-subjects from a cohort of 608 014 live births. Highest intrapartum maternal temperature revealed a linear relationship with risk of infection below 100.5°F, above which the risk rose rapidly. Duration of rupture of membranes revealed a steadily increasing relationship with infection risk. Increased risk was associated with both late-preterm and postterm delivery. Risk associated with maternal group B Streptococcus colonization is diminished in the era of group B Streptococcus prophylaxis. Any form of intrapartum antibiotic given >4 hours before delivery was associated with decreased risk. Our model showed good discrimination and calibration (c statistic = 0.800 and Hosmer-Lemeshow P = .142 in the entire data set).

CONCLUSIONS:

A predictive model based on information available in the immediate perinatal period performs better than algorithms based on risk-factor threshold values. This model establishes a prior probability for newborn sepsis, which could be combined with neonatal physical examination and laboratory values to establish a posterior probability to guide treatment decisions.