bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficiency of Annexin A1 in CD4+ T Cells Exacerbates T Cell–Dependent Inflammation
Authors: Yang Yuan H. , Song Wuqi , Deane James A. , Kao Wenping , Ooi Joshua D. , Ngo Devi , Kitching A. Richard , Morand Eric F. , Hickey Michael J.
Published: December 2012

Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is recognized as an endogenous anti-inflammatory molecule. However, its effects on the adaptive immune response and, in particular, on T cells remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the actions of AnxA1 in three distinct models of T cell–mediated inflammation. In contact hypersensitivity, collagen-induced arthritis, and inflammation induced by OT-II TCR transgenic T cells responding to OVA, AnxA1 deficiency significantly increased Ag-induced T cell proliferation and the resultant level of inflammation. In the contact hypersensitivity model, this was associated with increased adhesion of CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, and neutrophils in the dermal microvasculature, as well as increased T cell expression of RORγt and IL-17A. In collagen-induced arthritis, deficiency of endogenous AnxA1 increased susceptibility to arthritis and Ag-specific T cell activation. Deficiency of AnxA1 also increased OVA-induced cutaneous delayed-type hypersensitivity and IFN-γ and IL-17 release. Transfer experiments using CD4+ T cells from AnxA1−/− mice demonstrated that the absence of AnxA1 solely in T cells resulted in increased inflammatory responses in wild-type recipients. Similarly, experiments using AnxA1−/− OT-II CD4+ T cells demonstrated that the absence of AnxA1 in T cells was sufficient to induce increased Ag-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation in vivo, augment T cell production of IFN-γ, IL-17, TNF, and IL-6, and increase Akt, ERK, and p38 activation. Together, these findings indicate that T cell–expressed AnxA1 functions to attenuate T cell–driven inflammatory responses via T cell–intrinsic effects on intracellular signaling, proliferation, and Th1/Th17 cytokine release.
Neutrophil Extracellular Trap–Associated Protein Activation of the NLRP3 Inflammasome Is Enhanced in Lupus Macrophages
Authors: Kahlenberg J. Michelle , Carmona-Rivera Carmelo , Smith Carolyne K. , Kaplan Mariana J.
Published: December 2012

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) represent an important defense mechanism against microorganisms. Clearance of NETs is impaired in a subset of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, and NETosis is increased in neutrophils and, particularly, in low-density granulocytes derived from lupus patients. NETs are toxic to the endothelium, expose immunostimulatory molecules, activate plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and may participate in organ damage through incompletely characterized pathways. To better understand the role of NETs in fostering dysregulated inflammation, we examined inflammasome activation in response to NETs or to LL-37, an antibacterial protein externalized on NETs. Both NETs and LL-37 activate caspase-1, the central enzyme of the inflammasome, in both human and murine macrophages, resulting in release of active IL-1β and IL-18. LL-37 activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome utilizes P2X7 receptor–mediated potassium efflux. NET and LL-37-mediated activation of the inflammasome is enhanced in macrophages derived from lupus patients. In turn, IL-18 is able to stimulate NETosis in human neutrophils. These results suggest that enhanced formation of NETs in lupus patients can lead to increased inflammasome activation in adjacent macrophages. This leads to release of inflammatory cytokines that further stimulate NETosis, resulting in a feed-forward inflammatory loop that could potentially lead to disease flares and/or organ damage.
CD8+ TCR Repertoire Formation Is Guided Primarily by the Peptide Component of the Antigenic Complex
Authors: Koning Dan , Costa Ana I. , Hoof Ilka , Miles John J. , Nanlohy Nening M. , Ladell Kristin , Matthews Katherine K. , Venturi Vanessa , Schellens Ingrid M. M. , Borghans Jose A. M. , Keşmir Can , Price David A. , van Baarle Debbie
Published: December 2012

CD8+ T cells recognize infected or dysregulated cells via the clonotypically expressed αβ TCR, which engages Ag in the form of peptide bound to MHC class I (MHC I) on the target cell surface. Previous studies have indicated that a diverse Ag-specific TCR repertoire can be beneficial to the host, yet the determinants of clonotypic diversity are poorly defined. To better understand the factors that govern TCR repertoire formation, we conducted a comprehensive clonotypic analysis of CD8+ T cell populations directed against epitopes derived from EBV and CMV. Neither pathogen source nor the restricting MHC I molecule were linked with TCR diversity; indeed, both HLA-A and HLA-B molecules were observed to interact with an overlapping repertoire of expressed TRBV genes. Peptide specificity, however, markedly impacted TCR diversity. In addition, distinct peptides sharing HLA restriction and viral origin mobilized TCR repertoires with distinct patterns of TRBV gene usage. Notably, no relationship was observed between immunodominance and TCR diversity. These findings provide new insights into the forces that shape the Ag-specific TCR repertoire in vivo and highlight a determinative role for the peptide component of the peptide–MHC I complex on the molecular frontline of CD8+ T cell–mediated immune surveillance.
Cutting Edge: IL-6–Dependent Autoimmune Disease: Dendritic Cells as a Sufficient, but Transient, Source
Authors: Leech Melanie D. , Barr Tom A. , Turner Darryl G. , Brown Sheila , O’Connor Richard A. , Gray David , Mellanby Richard J. , Anderton Stephen M.
Published: December 2012

Mice lacking IL-6 are resistant to autoimmune diseases, such as experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is driven by CNS-reactive CD4+ T cells. There are multiple cellular sources of IL-6, but the critical source in EAE has been uncertain. Using cell-specific IL-6 deficiency in models of EAE induced by active immunization, passive transfer, T cell transfer, and dendritic cell transfer, we show that neither the pathogenic T cells nor CNS-resident cells are required to produce IL-6. Instead, the requirement for IL-6 was restricted to the early stages of T cell activation and was entirely controlled by dendritic cell–derived IL-6. This reflected the loss of IL-6R expression by T cells over time. These data explain why blockade of IL-6R only achieves protection against EAE if used at the time of T cell priming. The implications for therapeutic manipulation of IL-6 signaling in human T cell–driven autoimmune conditions are considered.
Brownout Cloud Characterization Using the Modulation Transfer Function
Authors: Tritschler John , Celi Roberto
Published: December 2012

The paper describes how to extract the modulation transfer function (MTF) of a brownout cloud from video recordings of specific optical patterns. The MTF is a measure of the loss of contrast and resolution caused by the cloud and can be used as the basis for a quantitative metric of
brownout severity. The application of two MTF calculation methods to actual flight test data is described. One requires the use of specially designed targets, such as a Siemens star, the other relies on simple dark/light visual edges. The results show that MTF extraction can be successfully
performed with a standard consumer-level video equipment and appropriate postprocessing. Also, MTF extraction can be automated using suitable image-processing techniques. The results rigorously quantify the intuitively known facts that the visual degradation caused by brownout is a space-
and time-dependent phenomenon and that high spatial frequency features, i.e., fine-grained detail, are obscured before low spatial frequency features, i.e., large objects.
Thyroid Agenesis: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Sthapak Eti , Gajbe Ujjwal L , Wanjari SP , Upadhyaya Vijai Datta , Kumar Basant
Published: December 2012

The thyroid gland, a highly vascular endocrine gland, is composed of two lateral lobes connected by a narrow median isthmus thus giving an ‘H’-shaped appearance to the gland. Congenital thyroid abnormalities mostly include unilateral lobar agenesis, with or without involving the isthmus. We are reporting a case rudimentary right lobe with absence of isthmus. The knowledge of various developmental anomalies of the gland and variations in neurovascular relations will help the surgeon in better planning of a safe and effective surgery.

How to cite this article

Sthapak E, Gajbe UL, Wanjari SP, Upadhyaya VD, Kumar B. Thyroid Agenesis: A Case Report with Review of Literature. World J Endoc Surg 2012;4(3): 99-101.
Recurrent Primary Pituitary Abscess
Authors: Singh Prakash , Gill Maneet , Pathak Harish Chandra , Garg MK
Published: December 2012

Pituitary abscesses are rare and potentially life-threatening. Recurrent pituitary abscesses are rarer still. We present a case of primary pituitary abscess with recurrence 11 years after drainage of the initial abscess. We could trace only five previously reported cases of recurrent pituitary abscesses and, in these, the duration for recurrence varied from 2 days to 4 years.

How to cite this article

Gill M, Pathak HC, Singh P, Garg MK. Recurrent Primary Pituitary Abscess. World J Endoc Surg 2012;4(3):108-111.
Team Learning in SMEs: Learning the Lessons
Authors: McKeown Ian
Published: December 2012

This research identifies and explores the factors that influence team learning in the context of an SME management team. It examines the difficulties the team members face in attempting to share and combine their experiences to co-construct knowledge and understanding of their environment and future opportunities. The paper reveals a connection between three core themes: the opportunity and nature of team participation; the forms of shared practice exercised; and the influence of situated power on team learning. The role of leadership is found to be critical in creating the right environment for learning. The implications of the findings for appropriate support initiatives, learning infrastructure and leadership development are discussed in the conclusions.
Consultant–Client Relationships in UK SMEs
Authors: Malone Stephen A.
Published: December 2012

This article reports on research into the role and value of a particular type of business consultant: a UK government-sponsored Personal Business Adviser (PBA). While it is an occupation that is now defunct in the UK, the author argues that its abolition may have been premature. The roles of the PBA are identified and are found to be in line with emerging views of the consultant–client relationship that are more moderate than popular extremes. This finding has implications for consultancy practice: various elements of the PBA job have wider applicability and usefulness for small business support.
Higher Education Engagement in Leadership Development
Authors: Jones Karen , Sambrook Sally , Henley Andrew , Norbury Heather
Published: December 2012

This paper explores the lived experience of leadership learning and development in a single case study of an entrepreneur participating in a major leadership development programme for owner–managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Based on autobiographical research, it provides a rich contextual account of the nature and underlying influences of leadership learning throughout the life-course and as a consequence of participation in the programme. Whilst the paper should interest scholars, policy makers and those concerned with programme development, it may also resonate with entrepreneurs and help them make sense of their experience of leadership development.
The Future of Entrepreneurship Education in the UK's ‘Big Society’
Authors: Matlay Harry , Hussain Javed
Published: December 2012

Over the last three decades in the UK, successive Conservative and Labour governments have implemented policies and initiatives aimed at widening access to higher education. During the same period, entrepreneurship education has emerged as an important aspect of higher education provision, as it has in other industrially developed and developing nations. The authors set out to conceptualize entrepreneurship education in the context of the rhetoric and reality of the present UK coalition government's ‘Big Society’ flagship initiative. This research builds on prior work on stakeholder impact on the provision of entrepreneurship education in UK HEIs. The results indicate that the inception and development of the Big Society has been remote, erratic and controversial. This appears to reflect both the attraction and the scepticism exhibited by various stakeholders, who tend to misinterpret the vagueness of the Big Society concept and apportion to it unrealistic ideological roots, expectations and possible outcomes. As a result, the Big Society rhetoric appears to have failed to alter radically the stakeholder balance of influence. The authors found no significant change in the perceptions or impact of various interest groups on the design, delivery and assessment of entrepreneurship education in UK HEIs. They suggest that the next few years are likely to prove crucial not only to the future of higher education in the UK but also to the growth and evolution of entrepreneurship education as well as the development of enterprising graduates. They call for further research to chart the direction, strength and overall impact of the Big Society, as it relates to changes in stakeholders' balance of influence on the development of entrepreneurship education.
Preconditioning for Sparse Linear Systems at the Dawn of the 21st Century: History, Current Developments, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ferronato Massimiliano
Published: December 2012

Iterative methods are currently the solvers of choice for large sparse linear systems of equations. However, it is well known that the key factor for accelerating, or even allowing for, convergence is the preconditioner. The research on preconditioning techniques has characterized the last two decades. Nowadays, there are a number of different options to be considered when choosing the most appropriate preconditioner for the specific problem at hand. The present work provides an overview of the most popular algorithms available today, emphasizing the respective merits and limitations. The overview is restricted to algebraic preconditioners, that is, general-purpose algorithms requiring the knowledge of the system matrix only, independently of the specific problem it arises from. Along with the traditional distinction between incomplete factorizations and approximate inverses, the most recent developments are considered, including the scalable multigrid and parallel approaches which represent the current frontier of research. A separate section devoted to saddle-point problems, which arise in many different applications, closes the paper.
A Simple Anisotropic Mesh-Refinement Strategy for Triangular Elements in 2D
Authors: Larsson Fredrik
Published: December 2012

A novel approach to anisotropic mesh-refinement of linear triangular elements in the finite element method is proposed. Using the method of solving a hierarchically refined dual problem in the a posteriori error analysis, indicators for edge refinement, rather than element refinement, can be obtained. A complete adaptive strategy is presented and illustrated by some numerical examples.
Race and Socioeconomic Status Differences in Study Abroad Participation: The Role of Habitus, Social Networks, and Cultural Capital
Authors: Simon Jennifer , Ainsworth James W.
Published: December 2012

This study examines how race and socioeconomic status contribute to disparities in study abroad participation. Our mixed methods approach provides a broad overview of the selection process into study abroad using national data. It also provides a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms that perpetuate inequality among Black and lower class students. Both quantitative and qualitative results show that students’ habitus, social networks, and cultural capital shape their study abroad experiences. We find that students with a positive predisposition toward internationalization (having foreign-born parents and/or experiencing different cultures overseas) were more likely to study abroad. Whites and high socioeconomic status students were also more likely to have family and friends who valued study abroad than were lower socioeconomic status and Black students. These advantaged students were better able to acquire and use cultural capital when accessing information from institutional agents. They were also more likely to possess the knowledge and background that complied with institutional standards. These factors contributed significantly to the race and class disparities in study abroad participation. This study contributes to the scant literature on study abroad by revealing mechanisms through which the reproduction of inequality is shaped in the university setting. We argue that patterns found to apply to this process are likely to take place in other processes in higher education as well.
Improvement in Corrosion Inhibition Efficiency of Molybdate-Based Inhibitors via Addition of Nitroethane and Zinc in Stimulated Cooling Water
Authors: Mohammadi Saeed , Baghaei Ravari Fatemeh , Dadgarinezhad Athareh
Published: December 2012

An investigation was conducted to improve the corrosion inhibition efficiency of molybdate-based inhibitors for mild steel which is the main construction material of cooling water systems, using nitroethane as an organic compound beside zinc. In this study a new molybdate-based inhibitor was introduced with the composition of 60 ppm molybdate, 20 ppm nitrite, 20 ppm nitroethane, and 10 ppm zinc. Inhibition efficiency of molybdate alone and with nitrite, nitroethane, and zinc on the uniform corrosion of mild steel in stimulated cooling water (SCW) was assessed by electrochemical techniques such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance (AC impedance) measurements. Weight loss measurements were made with coupon testing specimens in the room temperature for 48 h. Studies of electron microscopy, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) photograph and X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) microanalysis, were used. The results obtained from the polarization and AC impedance curves were in agreement with those from the corrosion weight loss results. The results indicate that the new inhibitor is as effective as molybdate alone, though at one-ninth of the concentration range of molybdate, which is economically favorable.
Trends in Kaposi’s Sarcoma in Miami Beach from 1987 to 2007
Authors: Zeichner Simon B. , Ruiz Ana L. , Suciu Gabriel P. , Zeichner Rachel Lerner , Rodriguez Estelamari
Published: December 2012

Purpose.Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a rare low-grade vascular tumor associated with the human herpes virus 8. By analyzing the epidemiology, staging, and treatment of KS, we hoped to improve the quality of care at our institution.Methods. Review of the Mount Sinai Medical Center tumor registry database in Miami Beach, FL, USA, identified 143 cases of KS between January 1, 1987 and December 31, 2007.Results.The majority of patients were non-Hispanic whites, non smoking males diagnosed between 1987 and 1996. Most of the patients were HIV positive, with an equal percentage diagnosed with local or distant disease. Most patients received no chemotherapy or radiation. There were no significant differences in patient survival based on sex, HIV status, or radiation received. There was a trend toward improved survival among older patients who smoked, received no chemotherapy, and had localized stage at diagnosis. Multivariate analysis revealed that non-Hispanic whites had a significant worse survival than Hispanic whites (HR = 0.55, 95% CI (0.33, 0.90), ). Patients diagnosed between 1987 and 1996 had a worse survival than those between 1997 and 2007 (HR = 0.33 (95% CI 0.19, 0.55), ).Conclusion.This large retrospective study provides further insight into KS. Ethnicity and date of diagnosis are important predictors of long-term survival.
Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Pediatric Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Descriptive Review
Authors: Searight H. Russell , Robertson Kayla , Smith Todd , Perkins Scott , Searight Barbara K.
Published: December 2012

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD), characterized by impulsivity, distractibility, and inattention, has an estimated pediatric population prevalence of 6–8%. Family physicians and pediatricians evaluate and treat the majority of children with this condition. The evidence-based treatment of choice for ADHD, stimulant medication, continues to be a source of public controversy. Surveys suggest that among parents of children with ADHD, there is considerable interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). These therapies include herbal preparations, mineral supplements, sugar restriction, and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Other AD/HD therapies include neuro-feedback, cognitive training, mindfulness meditation, and exposure to “green space.” In order to assist physicians and mental health professionals in responding to patient and parent queries, this paper briefly describes these CAM therapies and current research regarding their effectiveness. While investigations in this area are hampered by research design issues such as sample size and the absence of double-blind placebo-controlled trials, there is some evidence that omega three fatty acids, zinc supplements, and neuro-feedback may have some efficacy.
A Review on Some Chemical Engineering and Microbiological Aspects Considered in the Production of Highly Concentrated Probiotic Cultures and Bacteriocins by Lactococci and Lactobacilli
Authors: Guerra Nelson Pérez
Published: December 2012

The main purpose of this work is to give an overview on the chemical engineering aspects related with the production of probiotic cultures and bacteriocins. Firstly, some evidence of the potential of different Lactococci and Lactobacilli strains for prevention or treatment of different human diseases, or as growth promoters in farm animals is given. In addition, examples of different commercial dietary supplements containing probiotic lactoccocci and lactobacilli in combination or not with other probiotic bacteria are presented. Secondly, the main factors (cultivation method, culture media, and media composition) affecting the production of bacteriocins by lactoccocci and lactobacilli strains are showed. Examples of modelling procedures developed to describe the production of higher concentrations of biomass and bacteriocins in fed-batch cultures subjected or not to successive alkalizations are summarized. Finally, the corresponding mass balance equations performed in the latter cultures are presented to calculate the volumes of feeding substrates and the concentrations of nutrients (lactose, glucose, proteins, nitrogen, and phosphorous) added to the fermentation medium, as well as the concentrations of biomass and products in the fermentor just after each feeding.
On the Conharmonic Curvature Tensor of Generalized Sasakian-Space-Forms
Authors: De U. C. , Singh R. N. , Pandey Shravan K.
Published: December 2012

The object of the present paper is to characterize generalized Sasakian-space-forms satisfying certain curvature conditions on conharmonic curvature tensor. In this paper we study conharmonically semisymmetric, conharmonically flat, -conharmonically flat, and conharmonically recurrent generalized Sasakian-space-forms. Also generalized Sasakian-space-forms satisfying and have been studied.
Sweet Corrosion Inhibition on API 5L-B Pipeline Steel
Authors: Ibraheem Mahmoud Abbas , El Sayed Fouda Abd El Aziz , Rashad Mohamed Talaat , Nagy Sabbahy Fawzy
Published: December 2012

Corrosion inhibition and adsorption behavior of two triazole derivatives on API 5L-B carbon steel in CO2-saturated 3.5% NaCl solutions was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization, EIS, and EFM techniques. Specimen surfaces were characterized using SEM, EDX, and XRD. Results show that the two compounds are mixed-type inhibitors and inhibition efficiency increases with increasing concentrations. Adsorption of the two compounds chemisorption and obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Activation energy and thermodynamic parameters were calculated. Surface analyses confirm the formation of iron nitrides on the metal surface which supports results obtained from previous techniques.
Decreasing Inpatient Falls: A Retrospective Analysis with CNS-Led Interventions
Authors: Cioffi Cheryl , Plumadore Jennifer , Clark Karen
Published: December 2012

Inpatient falls are considered 'never events' that may result in increased costs and adversely affect quality of care.  This study describes and analyzes characteristics of inpatient falls collected on a ‘Post Fall Huddle/Event Report’ form used by nursing and Risk Management. Data from a convenience sample of 182 falls were collected over a six month period. Analyses included descriptive and regression models on outcomes of injury and length of stay. Incontinence/elimination, antihypertensive medications, higher census, and any medication change, suggested associations with injury or length of stay. Based on the results several strategies were implemented by CNSs to include in-depth review of circumstances surrounding the fall; education of staff for consistency in the fall protocol; reinforcement of purposeful hourly rounding; and the need for increased objectivity on the Post Fall Huddle/Event Report form. Post implementation the average annual number of inpatient falls decreased by 50%.
Efeito Prolongado das Estratégias de Comunicação de Marketing e dos Indicadores Setoriais no Faturamento de Bares
Authors: Lima Maria Izabella Cunha , Porto Rafael Barreiros
Published: December 2012

Os bares esto submetidos a ciclos de faturamento de curto prazo e so altamente dependentes da situao econmica do pas. No Brasil, a causa da alta mortalidade das empresas desse setor est relacionada com o discernimento do que funciona ou no para o melhor desempenho de seu crescimento. O impacto das estratgias de comunicao de marketing no faturamento pode ser positivo, negativo ou inexpressivo, sendo que algumas tm melhores resultados que outras tanto em tempo corrente quanto em tempo posterior. Contudo, h igualmente variveis externas empresa que o influencia: a inflao do setor, os feriados e as chuvas. Para investigar melhor os fatores influentes no faturamento dos bares, uma pesquisa com modelagem economtrica foi conduzida a partir de dados longitudinais de 13 meses consecutivos de cada bar. Foi utilizada a Estimativa de Equaes Generalizadas para gerar dois modelos: um apenas com os efeitos correntes das variveis e outro com efeitos correntes e defasados em at dois meses aps a implementao das estratgias e indicadores setoriais. O resultado apontou que o efeito negativo da inflao do setor no faturamento quase to forte quanto soma de todas as estratgias de comunicao significativas no ms corrente e que quando se considera a defasagem das variveis, a panfletagem tem efeito nefasto sobre o faturamento. Conclui-se que as melhores formas de aumentar o faturamento em bares dentro de trs meses so publicaes em redes sociais, promoo de venda e eventos. DOI: 10.5585/remark.v11i3.2390
The Perception and Endogenous Modulation of Pain
Authors: Ossipov Michael H.
Published: December 2012

Pain is often perceived an unpleasant experience that includes sensory and emotional/motivational responses. Accordingly, pain serves as a powerful teaching signal enabling an organism to avoid injury, and is critical to survival. However, maladaptive pain, such as neuropathic or idiopathic pain, serves no survival function. Genomic studies of individuals with congenital insensitivity to pain or paroxysmal pain syndromes considerable increased our understanding of the function of peripheral nociceptors, and especially of the roles of voltage-gated sodium channels and of nerve growth factor (NGF)/TrkA receptors in nociceptive transduction and transmission. Brain imaging studies revealed a “pain matrix,” consisting of cortical and subcortical regions that respond to noxious inputs and can positively or negatively modulate pain through activation of descending pain modulatory systems. Projections from the periaqueductal grey (PAG) and the rostroventromedial medulla (RVM) to the trigeminal and spinal dorsal horns can inhibit or promote further nociceptive inputs. The “pain matrix” can explain such varied phenomena as stress-induced analgesia, placebo effect and the role of expectation on pain perception. Disruptions in these systems may account for the existence idiopathic pan states such as fibromyalgia. Increased understanding of pain modulatory systems will lead to development of more effective therapeutics for chronic pain.
The Combined Effect of Nursing Support and Adverse Event Mitigation on Adherence to Interferon Beta-1b Therapy in Early Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Dhib-Jalbut Suhayl , Markowitz Clyde , Patel Payal , Boateng Francis , Rametta Mark ,   for the START Study Group
Published: December 2012

There is limited clinical evidence on the impact of nurse support and adverse event (AE) mitigation techniques on adherence to interferon beta-1b (IFNβ-1b) therapy in multiple sclerosis (MS) in a real-world setting. The aim of the Success of Titration, analgesics, and BETA nurse support on Acceptance Rates in MS Treatment (START) trial was to assess the combined effect of titration, analgesics, and BETA (Betaseron Education, Training, Assistance) nurse support on adherence to IFNβ-1b therapy in patients with early-onset MS and to evaluate safety. Participants were instructed to titrate IFNβ-1b and use analgesics to minimize flu-like symptoms. All received BETA nurse follow-up at frequent intervals: live training, two telephone calls during the first month of therapy, and monthly calls thereafter. Participants were considered adherent if they took at least 75% of the total prescribed doses over 12 months (≥75% compliance). Safety was monitored via reported AEs and laboratory test results. Participants who took at least one IFNβ-1b dose over 12 months were analyzed (N = 104); 73.8% of participants completed the study. The mean age of participants was 37.2 years; 72.1% were women and 78.8% were white. Ninety participants had relapsing-remitting MS and 14 had clinically isolated syndrome. The mean compliance rate, reported for 96 participants with complete dose interruption records, was 84.4%. At 12 months, 78.1% of participants were considered adherent. The serious adverse event rate was 9.6%; most events were unrelated to therapy. Thus in the START study, in which participants received nursing support combined with dose titration and use of analgesics, the majority of participants were adherent to therapy.
DEVELOPMENT OF COASTAL PROTECTION MEASURES FOR SMALL ISLANDS IN THE WADDEN SEA USING A RISK-BASED APPROACH
Authors: Wöffler Theide , Schuttrumpf Holger , Arns Arne , Von Eynatten Hilmar , Häußling Roger , Jensen Jurgen , Schindler Malte
Published: December 2012

The Halligen in the Northfrisian part of the UNESCO - World Natural Heritage Wadden Sea are exposed to extreme storm surges due to climate change and sea level rise. Existing coastal protection measures in this area do not consider the future sea state and are mainly based on tradition and expert knowledge. The presented work is part of the project ZukunftHallig (supported by the German Coastal Engineering Research Council) and has the main objective to design and evaluate new coastal protection techniques and management strategies for the Halligen. With numerical simulations hydrological parameters are investigated. Furthermore sensitivity analyses expose possible variations in future storm surges and illustrate the difference in significant wave heights for varying wind climates. This risk based approach of the project is a suitable way to ensure life for future generations on these islands under sustainable ecological und economic conditions.
RELIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF A COASTAL DIKE AND DUNE SYSTEM AT THE SOUTH OF FALSTER, DENMARK
Authors: Kortenhaus Andreas , Schurenkamp David , Piontkowitz Thorsten , Oumeraci Hocine
Published: December 2012

The 'Falster dike' is a system of a coastal vegetated dunes with a grass-covered sand dike protecting a low-lying area of about 7,000 summer houses, many of which being inhabited during winter, and therefore in danger of any storm surge induced flooding. The paper discusses (i) the assessment and uncertainties of relevant data such as bathymetry, topography, wind and wave data, water levels; (ii) deterministic calculations of wave run-up and overtopping of the dike without dunes; (iii) the calculations of dune erosion; and (iv) a reliability assessment of a dune and dike system. Results suggest that the dunes in front of the dikes lead to a significantly increased safety of the flood defences and will therefore withstand present and future conditions, including climate change scenarios.
SEABED INSTABILITY AROUND CAISSON BREAKWATERS
Authors: Duran Gerardo , Mayoral Juan Manuel , Mendoza Edgar , Silva Rodolfo
Published: December 2012

A sensibility numerical study, considering the soil conditions found at Frontera Port in Tabasco, Mexico was conducted to identify the variables that govern the response of a seabed-foundation-structure system subject to wave loading. Among all the possible causes of instability, this study deals only with those associated with liquefaction failure of silty-sands due to cyclic shear stresses generated by regular waves. This research was prompted by the accidents that have occurred near Frontera Port, the most serious of which took place in October 2007 when the Usumacinta oil platform settled, causing 21 fatalities. Previous analysis of this accident (Leis, et al, 2007) suggested that the platform did not present any structural failure and that the accident was a result of an unexpected behavior of the seabed; probably liquefaction. In order to offer results regarding coastal protection activities in the study area, the analysis presented here was developed simulating a vertical breakwater similar to that constructed in 2001 at Barcelona instead of the oil platform. Puzrin, et al, 2009 report that in November 2001 four caissons of this breakwater failed due to seabed liquefaction. The adaptation of the design of the vertical breakwater to the study area conditions was estimated by means of the Goda, 1985 formula.
DEVELOPMENT OF A FINITE-AMPLITUDE MORPHODYNAMIC MODEL FOR TIDAL SAND WAVES BASED ON SWASH
Authors: Van Oyen Tomas , Suzuki T. , Zijlema M. , Rauwoens P. , Troch P.
Published: December 2012

Tidal sand waves are prominent bed forms occurring in coastal seas characterized by non-cohesive sediment deposits and relatively strong tidal currents (0.3 - 1.0 m/s). These bed features have a crest-to-crest distance between 100 and 500 m and are oriented approximately orthogonal to the main direction of the tidal current. Typical amplitudes are of the order of 1 to 10 m. Due to the ability of the bed forms to migrate, tidal sand waves pose serious hazards to many coastal structures such as pipe lines, monopiles and shipping lanes. Insight in the dynamics of these bed forms therefore is crucial for the long-term management of the coastal zone. In this work, we describe the development of a new generic numerical morphodynamic model to simulate the finite amplitude of tidal sand waves based on the hydrodynamic code SWASH.
SPREADING OF BRINE DISCHARGED INTO THE PUCK BAY (SOUTH BALTIC SEA): THEORETICAL STUDY VERSUS FIELD OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Robakiewicz Malgorzata
Published: December 2012

Increasing demands for gas storage capacity encouraged Polish Gas and Oil Company (PGNiG) to make use of salt deposits located in the north-eastern part of Poland, in the area bordering on the Gulf of GdaÅ,,sk (South Baltic Sea), and create underground gas stores. A complex of 10 chambers (250x106 m3) was designed to be built at a depth of 800-1600 m. The construction site is located about 4 km away from the sea coast. The drilling of boreholes and diluting of salt rock was proposed as a method of creating the chambers. Owing to ecological reasons, maximum discharge of brine is limited to 300 m3/h with the max. saturation of 250 kg/m3. The Puck Bay is a shallow water body with wind-driven currents and negligible tides. The main difficulty of the investment lay in the effective spreading of brine in the Puck Bay in accordance with all requirements that apply to regions protected by NATURA 2000. The most important restriction was the permitted excess salinity, defined as 0.5 PSU over the natural salinity in the Puck Bay. The location of brine discharge, number and diameters of nozzles, as well as consequences of brine discharge on the Puck Bay water, had been analyzed before the permission to install the system of diffusers was granted by the regional administration.

The installation consists of a system of 16 heads spaced every 45 m, each of them equipped with 3 nozzles of 8 mm diameter.
IMPROVEMENT OF SEDIMENT TRANSPORT BY OPEN CUT OF CAUSEWAY IN FUNAFUTI ATOLL, TUVALU
Authors: Sato Daisaku , Yokoki Hiromune , Kayanne Hajime
Published: December 2012

This study focused on the improvement of sediment transport by excavation of the causeway located in the northern part of Fongafale Islet, in order to increase the lagoonal sediment transport. Then, accretion due to excavation was evaluated numerically. Consideration of effective excavation width indicated that the most desirable width is around 30m. Even if the excavation width is increased more than 30m, the longshore sediment transport didn't increase. Excavation of the causeway increased lagoonal sediment transportation and it accelerated lagoonal accumulation. Calculated results indicated that the excavation of causeway is effective for improvement of longshore sediment transport, and it connects to sustainable conservation of lagoonal coast in Fongafale Islet.
CONTROL OF THE SIX DEGREES OF FREEDOM OF A FLOATING BODY USING VIDEO IMAGING TECHNIQUES: MONITORING THE OPERATION OF FLOATING GATE OPENING AND CLOSING AT CAMPAMENTO'S DRY DOCK (ALGECIRAS BAY)
Authors: Molina Sánchez Rafael , Cabrerizo Morales Miguel ngel , De los Santos Ramos Francisco , Camarero Orive Alberto , Matutano Molina Clara
Published: December 2012

The activity of floating structures within the harbours is influenced by physical and exploitation agents. Therefore, the study of operational thresholds overcoming is crucial to limit the risk in port operations.

In order to achieve this objective it is necessary, a deep knowledge of use, exploitation and environmental agents, as well as the response of the system. To study the response of such systems it is necessary to measure, besides the forces that coerce the free float, the displacements, rotations and accelerations in all six degrees of freedom of rigid bodies. With this aim up to now, gyroscopes (Stahl et al.1983 B.), accelerometers (LJWeyers et al. 1985), load cells, RTK-GPS systems infrared (Johanning et al.2007), laser, etc., have been used to carry out the monitoring of floating elements, on both model and prototype. However, these instrumental techniques are associated with large investments, setting up and calibration procedures, and equipment maintenance.

Since 2008, the Laboratory of Ports at UPM ( Chair Pablo Bueno), is developing new instrumental techniques, for field and laboratory application, in the framework of following two strategic lines, part of the agreement reached with the Public Entity Puertos del Estado: "Development of non-intrusive instrumentation oriented monitoring of port infrastructure" and "Study of reliability in the areas of design, optimization and exploitation of maritime infrastructure". The use of video imaging techniques offers advantages, such as low maintenance, non intrusive and low implementation costs. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the practical application of video imaging techniques for monitoring floating structures, as a tool to support harbour operations. Precisely in this work we develop a monitoring example of the floating gate of Campamento's dry dock, in Algeciras' Bay.
A FEMDEM NUMERICAL MODEL STUDY OF RUBBLE-MOUND STRUCTURES ARMOURED WITH CONCRETE ARMOUR UNITS
Authors: Latham John-Paul , Anastasaki Eleni , Xiang Jiansheng
Published: December 2012

A new method for the numerical creation of random single-layer systems of concrete armour units is illustrated. The armour layer pack is created by a FEMDEM solver that ensures mechanical equilibrium between all concrete units and rocks of the underlayer. The local and average packing density together with geometric constraints indicative of randomness and interlocking are assessed using analysis tools and shown to be in accordance with unit designer requirements. This solids modelling research is an essential pre-requisite to future simulation of the armour layer response to wave loading and more realistic modelling of wave run-up and overtopping on rubble-mound structures.
SEDIMENT DYNAMICS IN LAGOS HARBOUR - RECONNAISSANCE ON EFFECTS OF DREDGING
Authors: Vijverberg Thomas , Reneerkens Michiel , Winterwerp Han , Scholl Olaf , Haruna Y.
Published: December 2012

Due to economic growth, Lagos Harbour is expanding. Capital dredging is needed to allow larger vessels to call the port. As harbour siltation is already a problem, increase of maintenance dredging is a worry. In the past no data was available to understand the hydraulics and sediment transport to estimate maintenance dredging volumes. This paper presents the reconnaissance of the sediment dynamics in the harbour, based on field data and MIKE21 model simulations. Measurements of sediment concentration, salinity and flow velocity show that estuarine circulation occurs, transporting sediment from the ocean into the port. However, more upstream in the Commodore channel, at the location where dredging will be carried out, this circulation is small. Model simulations show that at that location, bed shear stresses are large, also after dredging. Therefore, fine sediment can not accumulate in the deepened areas and this will not result in large dredging volumes. Sand transport however can cause sedimentation, as bed forms can migrate. These mechanisms are also observed in initial sand transport simulations, but need to be studied further to fully understand the sediment dynamics in the harbour.
STABILITY OF INTERLOCKED PATTERN PLACED BLOCK REVETMENTS
Authors: Gier Fabian , Schuttrumpf Holger , Mönnich Jens , Van der Meer Jentsje , Kudella Matthias , Rubin Hillel
Published: December 2012

Revetments protect the shorelines of coasts, estuaries and rivers against wind waves, ship waves, currents and ice attacks. The resistance of revetments basically depends on the properties of the cover layer. In the case of an interlocked pattern placed revetment the resistance essentially depends on the weight of the individual blocks, the friction forces and the interlocking force. In this study, extensive large scale model tests have been performed to assess the hydraulic stability of interlocked pattern placed revetments. The study shows test results due to deformations, wave loading and pull-out tests. Overall, the experimental results show a significant increase in the structural stability of the revetment against wave attack due to the interlocking system compared to traditional revetment elements.
USE OF SINGLE LAYER CONCRETE ARMOUR UNITS AS TOE REINFORCEMENT
Authors: Young Martin , Hayman-Joyce John , Kim Seok Hyeon
Published: December 2012

Detailing and optimization of the toe reinforcement is presented as a case study from the construction of the 5.2km long main breakwater for the new Colombo South Harbour in 18m water depth. During the breakwater design the environmental constraints on supply of large rock armour were recognized, and CORE-LOC™ single layer concrete armour units were selected for the primary armour protection. During construction, supply of relatively small quantities of 8-12t rock for use in the toe reinforcement became an issue, and use of CORE-LOC™ units placed on the flat rock armour apron as an alternative to rock armour toe reinforcement was investigated and implemented. This use is unusual as there is no in-plane compression between units as found when they are placed on the slope. A site based prototype scale trial was conducted to evaluate placing method and criteria, and an "alternate opposing cannon† pattern placement, in rows going seaward from the primary armour, was successful. Packing density and unit spacing is the same as for the primary armour. Hydraulic stability of this alternative toe reinforcement was verified in 2D physical hydraulic model testing.
OPTIMIZATION OF OPERATIONALITY THRESHOLDS USING A MANEUVER SIMULATOR. CASE STUDY: FLOATING GATE AT CAMPAMENTO SHIPYARD
Authors: Cabrerizo-Morales Miguel , Molina RAFAEL , De los Santos Francisco , Camarero Alberto
Published: December 2012

Floating structures elements are part of complex systems in which climatic agents, those derived from human interaction during use and exploitation and freedom constraints are applied. Such complexity requires different analysis techniques for its comprehension This paper presents a methodology to define and optimize operationality thresholds of floating structures using a global scaled simulator in which all agents and system's responses are modeled during a complete operational process.
Long‐Term Care
Authors: Tong Rosemarie
Published: December 2012

Long‐term care for the elderly exists in the region between medical services and social services. As people grow older, they need more medical care for acute and chronic conditions and/or more help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting, getting in and out of bed, shopping, meal preparation, housecleaning, money management and so forth. Global aging – that is, the likelihood that by the year 2050, the population of adults over the age of 65 will be larger than the population of children under 5 years of age for the first time in human history (Department of State and the Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health 2007: 6) – is a transformative phenomenon that will necessitate much in the way of social, political, and economic adaptation.
Autonomy of Ethics
Authors: Jackson Frank
Published: December 2012

One question is how things are. Another question is how they ought to be, including what ought to be done. But the two questions are intimately connected.
Incest
Authors: Steutel Jan W.
Published: December 2012

Incest, if restrictively defined as heterosexual intercourse between consanguineous members of the same nuclear family (father–daughter, mother–son, brother–sister), is prohibited in almost all societies. Anthropologists seek to explain this nearly universal prohibition (ortaboo, as they prefer to call it), while ethicists focus on its justification.
Academic Freedom
Authors: Brecher Bob
Published: December 2012

Academic freedom is, more often than not, invoked merely as a slogan, generally by academics and almost always in self‐defense. But vague though it is, the notion encompasses some important considerations about the nature of academic work.
Animal Cognition
Authors: Andrews Kristin , Radenovic Ljiljana
Published: December 2012

Debates in applied ethics about the proper treatment of animals often refer to empirical data about animal cognition, emotion, and behavior. In addition, there is increasing interest in the question of whether any nonhuman animal could be something like a moral agent.
Freud, Sigmund
Authors: Neu Jerome
Published: December 2012

Sigmund Freud (1856–1939) was the father of psychoanalysis, which is both a technique for exploring the mind and a method of psychological therapy. While some of his views remain controversial, many of his central concepts have become part of our common self‐understanding. Whether talking about obsessive‐compulsive and other neuroses, anal character traits, narcissism, transference and displaced feelings, sublimated instincts, the ego and the id, slips of the tongue, and on indefinitely, we use his language and his theories to describe and explain our lives. Whatever the controversies, as W. H. Auden noted in his poem “In Memory of Sigmund Freud”: “to us he is no more a person / now but a whole climate of opinion / under whom we conduct our different lives” – and there remains much to be learned from him about our moral experience in particular.