bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Focused Deterrence Strategies on Crime
Authors: Braga Anthony A. , Weisburd David L.
Published: September 2011

Objective. Focused deterrence strategies are increasingly being applied to prevent and control gang and group-involved violence, overt drug markets, and individual repeat offenders. Given the growing popularity of this approach, a systematic review and meta-analysis of the extant evaluation evidence is needed to determine the crime reduction benefits of the approach. Methods. Our examination of the effects of focused deterrence strategies on crime followed the systematic review protocols and conventions of the Campbell Collaboration. As a preliminary examination of the effects of focused deterrence strategies on crime, the authors used a vote counting procedure. In our closer examination of program effects, meta-analyses were used to determine the size, direction, and statistical significance of the overall impact of focused deterrence strategies on crime. Results. We identified 10 quasi-experimental evaluations and 1 randomized controlled trial. Our meta-analysis suggests that focused deterrence strategies are associated with an overall statistically significant, medium-sized crime reduction effect. However, the strongest program effect sizes were generated by evaluations that used the weakest research designs. Conclusion. The authors conclude that this approach seems very promising in reducing crime but a more rigorous body of evaluation research needs to be developed. While the results of this review are very supportive of deterrence principles, the authors believe that other complementary crime control mechanisms are at work in the focused deterrence strategies described here that need to be highlighted and better understood.
Establishment of quantification methods for novel polypropylene/polyamide 6-based bicomponent fibre in textile binary mixtures
Authors: Piccinini Paola , Alvarez-Sarandés Rafael , Trantallidi Marilena , de Sertorio Maria
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was the establishment of quantification methods for binary mixtures containing a novel polypropylene/polyamide 6-based bicomponent fibre, for which a new generic fibre name has been requested to the European Commission. Application of such methods is requested by EU legislation to enable market surveillance of the compulsorycomposition labelling of textile products. Evaluating the key parameters for quantification, results showed that the b coefficient for the novel fibre (mass loss due to normal pre-treatment) is equal to 0%. In agreement with the members of the European Network of National Experts on Textile Labelling, the value of 1.00% was established as its agreed allowance (moisture regain in standard atmosphere), on the basis of the experimental value of 0.54%. Among the dissolution methods described in Directive 96/73/EC, the new fibre was insoluble in ten, for which the d correction factors (mass loss of the insoluble component) were evaluated. Three of them were additionally validated through an EU collaborative trial according to ISO 5725:1994. The ten established d correction factors were in the range of 1.00–1.01, revealing complete insolubility or up to 1% solubility of the novel fibre in the dissolution reagents. Based on this study, laboratories now have at their disposal methods to quantify the new fibre in binary mixtures with polyester, elastomultiester, polyamide, chlorofibres, certain acrylic and modacrylic fibres, acetate, triacetate, polylactide, certain cellulose fibres and certain protein fibres.
Using a mathematical model of human temperature regulation to evaluate the impact of protective clothing on wearer thermal balance
Authors: Pavlinic Daniela Zavec , Wissler Eugene H , Mekjavic Igor B
Published: September 2011

Thermal factors are often important in determining whether a given clothing ensemble is suitable for use under specified conditions. Although final approval of a particular ensemble often involves field trials, the need for such trials can be minimized by measuring the thermal properties of the garment using a heated manikin and then predicting human behavior using a mathematical human thermal model. While many laboratories are capable of measuring the properties of garments using manikins and several mathematical models exist, there have been very few published comparisons of actual human behavior with model predictions. The purpose of this paper is to present such a comparison for soldiers wearing a Slovene Armed Forces summer clothing ensemble during a three-hour hike across a 160 m high ridge. Values measured during the trial were: oxygen consumption; skin and core temperatures; regional thermal fluxes; clothing temperature; and environmental conditions. Subjective assessments of thermal comfort were made at regular intervals during the hike. Agreement between predicted and actual behavior was reasonable, although there were significant differences which could be attributed both to deficiencies in the model and to difficulties inherent in conducting field trials of this kind.
Specific language or working memory impairments: A small scale observational study
Authors: Archibald Lisa MD , Joanisse Marc , Edmunds Alan
Published: September 2011

Study of the developmental relationship between language and working memory skills has only just begun, despite the prominent role of their interdependency in some theoretical accounts of developmental language impairments. Recently, Archibald and Joanisse (2009) identified children with specific language impairment (SLI), or specific working memory impairment (SWMI), or mixed language and working memory impairment (Mixed) based on standardized testing. In the present study, we report a first effort to provide clinical verification of these profiles by describing the social, behavioral, and academic characteristics of individual group members. Two each of children with SLI, SWMI, or Mixed impairments, individually paired with six typically developing classmates, were observed in their classroom, and their teachers completed questionnaires related to communication, working memory, and attention. Children with impairments were distinguished from typically developing children; however, relatively few patterns further distinguished the children with SLI, SWMI, and Mixed impairments. Interestingly, the children with memory impairments were found to have some language-related difficulties, and the children with language impairments, some memory-related difficulties. The limitations of these preliminary findings and future directions are discussed.
Degeneration of the Knee Joint in Skeletally Immature Patients With a Diagnosis of an Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear
Authors: Lawrence J. Todd R. , Argawal Nina , Ganley Theodore J.
Published: September 2011

Background: In skeletally immature patients with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and significant growth remaining, the risk of inducing a growth disturbance with early reconstruction must be balanced against the risk of further intra-articular damage by delaying treatment until closer to skeletal maturity.

Hypothesis: Increased time from injury to ACL reconstruction in children ≤14 years of age will be associated with increased meniscal and chondral injuries at the time of reconstruction.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: With institutional review board approval, the records of a consecutive series of patients 14 years of age and younger who underwent ACL reconstruction between 1991 and 2005 were reviewed. Demographic, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and intraoperative findings were analyzed. Meniscal and articular cartilage injuries were graded. Logistic regression models using both univariable and multivariable regression procedures were used to identify factors independently associated with intra-articular lesions. Fisher exact test and Kaplan-Meier analysis were used to test for differences in intra-articular injuries by time from injury to surgery.

Results: Seventy patients were identified. Twenty-nine patients (41%) underwent reconstruction more than 12 weeks from the time of injury. Logistic regression analysis revealed time to surgical reconstruction (odds ratio, 4.1) and a history of a sense of knee instability (odds ratio, 11.4) to be independently associated with medial meniscal tears. Time to surgical reconstruction was also independently associated with medial and lateral compartment chondral injuries (odds ratios, 5.6 and 11.3, respectively). Testing time as a continuous variable, survivorship analysis also confirmed a significant association of time to reconstruction with medial meniscal injury as well as lateral and patellotrochlear cartilage injuries. When present, a delay in treatment of over 12 weeks (29 patients) was associated with an increase in the severity of medial meniscal tears ( P = .011) and higher grade lateral and patellotrochlear chondral injuries ( P = .0014 and P = .038, respectively).

Conclusion: Young patients who underwent surgical reconstruction of an acute ACL tear >12 weeks after the injury were noted to have a significant increase in irreparable medial meniscal tears and lateral compartment chondral injuries at the time of reconstruction. When a subjective sense of knee instability was present, this association was even stronger.
Examining Neuromuscular Control During Landings on a Supinating Platform in Persons With and Without Ankle Instability
Authors: Gutierrez Gregory M. , Knight Christopher A. , Swanik Charles B. , Royer Todd , Manal Kurt , Caulfield Brian , Kaminski Thomas W.
Published: September 2011

Background: Ankle instability is a costly public health concern because of the associated recurrent sprains. It is evident there are neuromuscular control deficits predisposing these individuals to their ankle “giving way.” Individuals with a history of lateral ankle sprain, who did not develop instability, may hold the key to understanding proper neuromuscular control after injury.

Hypotheses: On the basis of previous research, the authors hypothesized that individuals with ankle instability would demonstrate reduced peroneal activation, causing a more inverted position of the ankle, before and after landing.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: This study aimed to evaluate preparatory and reactive neuromuscular control when landing on a custom-designed ankle supinating device in individuals with ankle instability (AI), individuals with a history of lateral ankle sprains without instability (LAS), and uninjured controls (CON). Forty-five participants (15 per group) were asked to land on a device built to simulate the mechanism of a lateral ankle sprain (supination) while kinematics and muscle activity of the lower extremity were monitored.

Results: Contrary to our hypotheses, the AI group displayed significantly increased preparatory ( P = .01) and reactive ( P = .02) peroneal activation, while the LAS group demonstrated a trend toward increased preparatory tibialis anterior muscle activation ( P = .07), leading to a decreased plantar flexion of the ankle at landing.

Conclusion: The AI group was likely acting in a protective fashion to a potentially injurious situation, indicating these individuals can activate the peroneals if needed. The LAS group’s strategy may be a safer strategy in that a less plantar-flexed position of the ankle is more close-packed and stable. Further, it appears the long-latency response of the peroneals may be enhanced in these individuals, which indicates motor learning at the supraspinal level to promote dynamic restraint.

Clinical Relevance: Individuals with AI can increase peroneal activation when necessary to dynamically stabilize the ankle, indicating the potential for training/rehabilitation. Further, the LAS group may deploy a different control strategy after injury to protect the ankle from subsequent sprains, which deserves investigation during activities of daily living. A greater understanding of these strategies will lead to the development of more appropriate treatment paradigms after injury to minimize the incidence of instability.
Investigating the stress distribution of single walled carbon nanotubes embedded in polyimide nanocomposites
Authors: Tzeng Shi-Hua , Tsai Jia-Lin
Published: September 2011

The stress distribution of CNTs embedded within polyimide matrix subjected to applied loading was investigated using molecular dynamics simulation. The purpose of evaluating the stress distribution of CNTs is to characterize the loading transfer efficiency between the nano-reinforcement and surrounding polyimide matrix, which basically is an essential factor controlling the mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Three different interfacial adhesions between the CNTs and polyimide molecular were considered, that is, vdW interaction, CNTs with surface modification, and covalent bond. The stress distribution of the CNTs was calculated by using the Lutsko atomistic stress formulation1,2 and by taking the derivative of the potential functions as well. Results revealed that when the CNTs surface was modified, the higher load transfer efficiency from the polyimide to the CNTs was observed resulting in the higher modulus of the nanocomposites. It is noted that, if no surface modification on CNTs, the load transfer efficiency which basically depends on the intensities of the vdW interaction is relatively low. As a result, the surface modification on CNTs is an effective manner to improve the load transfer efficiency as well as the modulus of nanocomposite, which should be suggested in the fabrication of CNTs nanocomposites.
Gender Symmetry in the Self-Reporting of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Chan Ko Ling
Published: September 2011

Research has not conclusively determined whether men and women are equally likely to commit intimate partner violence (IPV). One explanation for the disparity in previous findings may be gender-based differences in reporting styles. The present study investigated whether there was any gender difference in self-reported IPV prevalence. A total of 3,740 Chinese couples from a representative population in Hong Kong were interviewed. Self-reports of men-to-women and women-to-men IPV between spouses were compared. Gender was controlled for to evaluate whether age, education, the Chinese concept of face, and other violence-related characteristics would affect the self-reporting of IPV. Findings supported gender symmetry in self-reported IPV prevalence as well as a moderate interspousal agreement in the self-reports. After adjustment for covariates, face was a significant factor predicting the interspousal differences in both men-to-women and women-to-men physical IPV.
Can Theories of Empire Explain the American Political Response to the Financial Crisis?
Authors: Tozzo Brandon
Published: September 2011

The repercussions of the 2008 financial crisis, which began in the USA, were felt around the world: credit markets froze, consumer demand collapsed, and major banks and industries required government money to avoid bankruptcy. Given the severity of the crisis and the American Government’s unprecedented intervention in the economy, the financial crisis presents an ideal case for a critical reassessment of major theories of empire. There are three prominent, yet distinct, views of empire that will be examined in this article. The first is the Empire offered by Michael Hardt and Antonio Negri. The second theory of empire is that of Leo Panitch and Sam Gindin. Finally, there is David Harvey’s ‘new imperialism’. The purpose of this article is to challenge several limitations in each theory of empire, and to conclude that Harvey’s ‘new imperialism’ provides the greatest insight into the USA’s immediate responses to the economic crisis.
Piston ring–cylinder liner lubrication analysis in a CO2 refrigeration reciprocating compressor
Authors: Yang B , Zhao Y
Published: September 2011

A simulation model is developed for the piston ring–cylinder liner lubrication problem in a CO2 refrigeration reciprocating compressor. Patir and Cheng’s modified Reynolds equation including pressure flow factors, shear flow factors, and shear stress factors is used to consider the effect of surface roughness on lubrication. The piston ring is assumed to be fully flooded at the leading edge, and both the cavitation case and fully flooded case are considered at the trailing edge. Modified Reynolds boundary condition is employed. The simulation results show that, the minimum oil film thickness has a maximum magnitude in the middle stroke region for downward stroke and upward stroke. In the vicinity of the dead centres, the magnitude of the friction force is much higher than that in the middle stroke region. The oil film pressure distribution along the piston ring thickness at different specified crank angles is indicated. The effects of ring thickness, crown height on minimum oil film thickness, and friction force are also investigated.
Time-optimal trajectory planning of robot manipulators in point-to-point motion using an indirect method
Authors: Ghasemi M H , Kashiri N , Dardel M
Published: September 2011

In this study, an iterative method for computing the time-optimal point-to-point control of robot manipulators is studied, subject to limits on the actuator torques and actuator jerks. This method uses the indirect solution of an open-loop optimal control problem so that the optimal control problem is translated to a non-linear two-point boundary value problem (TPBVP). Since there are many difficulties in finding the switching points and solving the TPBVP, a simple iterative method is proposed. This method is based on solving the minimum-energy problem without the necessity of finding the switching point. So, the resultant TPBVP can be solved using the usual algorithms. In addition, since the solution of the TPBVPs is sensitive to the initial guess, a simple procedure for making proper initial guesses is introduced. Furthermore, since the inverse kinematic of redundant manipulators is an ill-posed problem, the general form for boundary conditions corresponding to the final time is considered. In addition, it is shown that the proposed method has no sensitivity for specifying the time-optimal trajectory of manipulators that may contain singular arcs.
Approximate analytical model for fluid film force of finite length plain journal bearing
Authors: Wang Y L , Liu Z S , Kang W J , Yan J J
Published: September 2011

Non-linear dynamic performance of rotor–bearing systems supported by plain journal bearings strongly depends on the mathematical oil film force model. In this article, the analytical solution of oil film pressure for finite length plain journal bearing is obtained by employing the separation of variables method to analytically solve the Reynolds equation based on dynamic Gümbel boundary conditions. The analytical expression of oil film force is then derived by applying the integral method. The expression of the pressure is analysed to investigate the pressure distribution. The oil film force of the analytical model is compared with the results from other methods, namely, long bearing approximation, short bearing approximation, as well as the finite difference method. The results clearly validate the current model. The proposed model also proved to be efficient for analysing the dynamic characteristics of a rigid rotor supported by plain journal bearings.
‘It's kind of me taking responsibility for these things’: Men, vasectomy and ‘contraceptive economies’
Authors: Terry Gareth , Braun Virginia
Published: September 2011

This article examines vasectomy as a gendered practice of (non)reproductive masculinity. Reporting on interview-based data, in which a number of New Zealand men made sense of the operation, this article used critical thematic analysis to extract themes from semi-structured interviews with participants who had vasectomies in ‘typical’ circumstances. Primary themes of ‘taking responsibility’ and ‘vasectomy as an act of minor heroism’ were extracted from the data. We will argue that men constructed their ‘new found’ responsibility (and the heroic slant they added to it) within an ‘economy of gratitude’, meaning any involvement by men in the reproductive/contraceptive sphere is worthy of particular praise and value. While there may be some strategic value in these ideas, they draw upon existing discourses of orthodox masculinities and in this way may perpetuate (rather than challenge) the notion that men are doing something ‘special’ by having a vasectomy. This ‘specialness’ has the potential to ratify ongoing male privilege within heterosexual relationships, rather than the disruption that (at face value) it appears to be generating.
Electrorheology Improves E85 Engine Efficiency and Performance
Authors: Huang K. , Du Enpeng , Tang H. , Tao R.
Published: September 2011

E85 is an alternative fuel with 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. However, it is widely reported that E85 vehicles have difficulties to start in winter and have poor performance. Here, the authors report that with proper application of electrorheology, the authors can solve these issues. E85 vehicles all have port-injected engines. The fuel is injected into cylinders as droplets. Before the ignition, the fuel evaporates. Because E85 is more viscous than gasoline, the injected E85 droplet size is not small. Especially, in winter the cold weather makes the viscosity even higher, leading to the E85 droplets being even bigger. Since evaporation starts from the droplet surfaces, large droplets are difficult to be evaporated before the ignition comes. When there are no enough fuel vapors, the engine cannot start. To solve this problem, the authors introduce a small device just before the fuel injection, which produces a strong electric field to reduce the fuel viscosity, leading to much smaller fuel droplets in atomization. The evaporation is much faster and the engine is easier to start. As the small fuel droplets produced by our device make the combustion fast and timely, engine efficiency and performance are also expected to be improved.
Notes on a simplified two-degree-of-freedom car suspension model of chassis heave and pitch-plane dynamics
Authors: Martin J K , Parkins D W
Published: September 2011

This article considers the derivation of a common two-degree-of-freedom automotive suspension heave and pitch design model involving the front and rear axle coupled and uncoupled spring stiffnesses. Many rules of thumb are used in automotive design regarding this model perhaps without full appreciation of the mathematical analysis and assumptions invoked in their formulation. With the widespread use of computer-aided suspension simulation models, it is perhaps timely to note the derivations of the model equations and the limiting assumptions for which they can be applied with confidence. In particular, the derivations and numerical examples show that the concept of a stationary pitch centre for chassis-coupled dynamic normal-mode vibration analysis is questionable.
The role of the bilingual/bicultural worker in dementia education, support and care
Authors: Boughtwood Desiree , Shanley Christopher , Adams Jon , Santalucia Yvonne , Kyriazopoulos Helena , Rowland Jeffrey , Pond Dimity
Published: September 2011

Members of minority populations often have difficulty knowing about and accessing dementia services. One of the strategies used to promote access is the employment of bilingual/bicultural workers (sometimes referred to as multicultural, link or outreach workers). This study involved interviews with 24 bilingual/bicultural workers in south western Sydney, Australia to gain a better understanding of their role within the dementia field. Seven themes emerged: importance of working with family; process of building trust when moving between two cultures; importance of understanding the culture; self-care and culture; flexibility of their role; linking community members; and linking communities to mainstream services. Bilingual/bicultural workers play a significant and complex role in supporting individuals and families within their community who are affected by dementia. The significance of their role needs to be more clearly acknowledged in the development of policy, further research and service provision within the dementia field.
Implementing the National Dementia Strategy in England: Evaluating innovative practices using a case study methodology
Authors: Koch Tamar , Iliffe Steve
Published: September 2011

With dementia ever-increasing in prevalence and cost on society, and with recent reports emphasizing the need for improved and standardized diagnosis and care for patients with dementia, the National Dementia Strategy (NDS) has been published by the English Department of Health. The NDS encourages the identification of successful innovations to implement on a wider scale. This paper uses case studies to describe some examples of innovative practice in the diagnosis and management of patients with dementia in primary care. It goes on to discuss methodological problems in the evaluation and comparison of innovations in practice, focusing on the potential to compare complex with simple interventions, and recognizing the role that commissioners play in making decisions about the choice and implementation of innovation.
What Predicts Trends in the White House Mail?
Authors: Rottinghaus Brandon
Published: September 2011

There is voluminous survey evidence identifying which, when, and how individuals contact elected officials, but there is less evidence by way of external validation. The goal in this exploratory article is to investigate and extend the empirical trends in letter writing to the chief executive to validate the causes of political letter writing. Using a longitudinal series of heretofore unutilized data spanning 1953 to 1984 collected at individual presidential archives from President Eisenhower to President Reagan, the author tests competing theories about the causes of political letter writing during the modern presidential era. The findings reveal that exogenous events have the strongest effect, followed by presidential mobilization through speeches. Public approval has mixed effects but is strongest when those individuals most likely to participate approve of the president. These findings can help inform us about trends in participation and the evolving role of the public presidency.
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition in pulmonary carcinosarcoma: case report and literature review
Authors: Thomas Vibha T. , Hinson Stacy , Konduri Kartik
Published: September 2011

Pulmonary carcinosarcoma is a rare and aggressive neoplasm that has both epithelial and mesenchymal components. We report on a 63-year-old woman who was found to have a right upper-lobe pulmonary carcinosarcoma with metastases to the liver and gastric fundus. There are currently no published guidelines on the treatment of pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinomas. However, with our expanding knowledge of cancer metastasis, cases of carcinosarcoma illustrate our current understanding of epithelial–mesenchymal transition in action. Here, we discuss the development and treatment of these biphasic tumors and the possible role of epithelial–mesenchymal transition.
Buddy Wire Technique to Facilitate Fractional Flow Reserve of an Ostial Right Coronary Artery Lesion
Authors: McDivitt Jonathan D. , Graning Rolf E. , Ferguson Michael A.
Published: September 2011

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a well-established method to assess the hemodynamic and clinical significance of intermediate coronary artery stenoses. Ostial coronary lesions present a particular challenge to FFR measurements, as the guide needs to be positioned outside the artery during normalization and hyperemia measurements. Utilization of a “buddy wire” can help maintain stability of the coronary guide to facilitate FFR measurements of ostial coronary lesions.
Molecular evolution under increasing transposable element burden in Drosophila: A speed limit on the evolutionary arms race
Authors: Castillo Dean M , Mell Joshua Chang , Box Kimberly S , Blumenstiel Justin P
Published: September 2011

Background

Genome architecture is profoundly influenced by transposable elements (TEs), and natural selection against their harmful effects is a critical factor limiting their spread. Genome defense by the piRNA silencing pathway also plays a crucial role in limiting TE proliferation. How these two forces jointly determine TE abundance is not well understood. To shed light on the nature of factors that predict TE success, we test three distinct hypotheses in the Drosophila genus. First, we determine whether TE abundance and relaxed genome-wide purifying selection on protein sequences are positively correlated. This serves to test the hypothesis that variation in TE abundance in the Drosophila genus can be explained by the strength of natural selection, relative to drift, acting in parallel against mildly deleterious non-synonymous mutations. Second, we test whether increasing TE abundance is correlated with an increased rate of amino-acid evolution in genes encoding the piRNA machinery, as might be predicted by an evolutionary arms race model. Third, we test whether increasing TE abundance is correlated with greater codon bias in genes of the piRNA machinery. This is predicted if increasing TE abundance selects for increased efficiency in the machinery of genome defense.

Results

Surprisingly, we find neither of the first two hypotheses to be true. Specifically, we found that genome-wide levels of purifying selection, measured by the ratio of non-synonymous to synonymous substitution rates (ω), were greater in species with greater TE abundance. In addition, species with greater TE abundance have greater levels of purifying selection in the piRNA machinery. In contrast, it appears that increasing TE abundance has primarily driven adaptation in the piRNA machinery by increasing codon bias.

Conclusions

These results indicate that within the Drosophila genus, a historically reduced strength of selection relative to drift is unlikely to explain patterns of increased TE success across species. Other factors, such as ecological exposure, are likely to contribute to variation in TE abundances within species. Furthermore, constraints on the piRNA machinery may temper the evolutionary arms race that would drive increasing rates of evolution at the amino acid level. In the face of these constraints, selection may act primarily by improving the translational efficiency of the machinery of genome defense through efficient codon usage.
Prospective evaluation of indirect costs due to acute rotavirus gastroenteritis in Spain: the ROTACOST study
Authors: Bouzón-Alejandro Marta , Redondo-Collazo Lorenzo , Sánchez-Lastres Juan Manuel , Martinón-Torres Nazareth , Martinón-Sánchez José María , Martinón-Torres Federico ,   the ROTACOST research team
Published: September 2011

Background

The effect of rotavirus in developed countries is mainly economic. This study aimed to assess the indirect costs induced by rotavirus acute gastroenteritis (RVAGE) in Spain.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted from October 2008 to June 2009. It included 682 children up to 5 years of age with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) who attended primary care (n = 18) and emergency room/hospital settings (n = 10), covering the regions of Galicia and Asturias (North-west Spain). All non-medical expenses incurred throughout the episode were recorded in detail using personal interviews and telephone contact.

Results

Among the 682 enrolled children, 207 (30.4%) were rotavirus positive and 170 (25%) had received at least one dose of rotavirus vaccine. The mean (standard deviation) indirect cost caused by an episode of AGE was estimated at 135.17 (182.70) Euros. Costs were 1.74-fold higher when AGE was caused by rotavirus compared with other etiologies: 192.7 (219.8) Euros vs. 111.6 (163.5) Euros (p < .001). The costs for absenteeism were the most substantial with a mean of 91.41 (134.76) Euros per family, resulting in a loss of 2.45 (3.17) days of work. In RVAGE patients, the absenteeism cost was 120.4 (154) Euros compared with 75.8 (123) for the other etiologies (p = .002), because of loss of 3.5 (3.6) vs 1.9 (2.9) days of work (p < .001). Meals costs were 2-fold-higher (48.5 (55) vs 24.3 (46) Euros, p < .001) and travel costs were 2.6-fold-higher (32 (92) vs 12.5 (21.1) Euros, p = .005) in RVAGE patients compared with those with other etiologies. There were no differences between RVAGE and other etiologies groups regarding costs of hiring of caregivers or purchase of material. Patients with RVAGE were admitted to hospital more frequently than those with other etiologies (47.8% vs 14%, p < .001).

Conclusions

Rotavirus generates a significant indirect economic burden. Our data should be considered in the decision-making process of the eventual inclusion of rotavirus vaccine in the national immunization schedule of well developed countries.
Side population rather than CD133+ cells distinguishes enriched tumorigenicity in hTERT-immortalized primary prostate cancer cells
Authors: Zhou Jianjun , Wang Honghe , Cannon Virginetta , Wolcott Karen Marie , Song Hongbin , Yates Clayton
Published: September 2011

Background

Subpopulations of cancer cells with the capacity of generating solid tumors have been characterized. In various cancer types, including prostate cancer cells, a side population (SP) and CD133-expressing cells have been proposed as containing a population cancer cells with stem-like ability. Therefore the aim of this work was to determine, in prostate cancer cell lines, the frequency and tumorigenic potential of SP and CD133+ cells.

Results

In vitro 2D colony-forming assay and sphere-forming assay, Flow cytometry analysis and magnetic cell sorting were utilized to sort CD133+, CD133- and Side population (SP) cells. Our findings indicate that CD44 and integrin α-6 are uniformly expressed in the hTERT cell lines; however, CD133 is expressed only in a small population (< 0.1%). FACS-sorted CD133+ and CD133- cells exhibited similar tumorigenicity in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, for the hTERT cells, SP rather than CD133 expression showed an 8-fold enhanced tumorigenic potential. The data suggest that SP cells, rather than those with CD133 marker, contain the rare population of CSC capable of producing prostate tumors.

Conclusion

Collectively, our data suggest that although CD133 is expressed only in a small population of hTERT-immortalized prostate cancer cells, it is not likely to be associated with stem cells, as CD133- and CD133+ cells exhibited similar tumorigenicity. However, SP isolated cells, appear to be enriched with tumorigenic stem-like cells capable of generating palpable tumors.
Upregulated expression of indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase in CHO cells induces apoptosis of competent T cells and increases proportion of Treg cells
Authors: Sun Jingyan , Yu Jinpu , Li Hui , Yang Lili , Wei Feng , Yu Wenwen , Liu Juntian , Ren Xiubao
Published: September 2011

Introduction

The inflammatory enzyme indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase (IDO) participates in immune tolerance and promotes immune escape of IDO+ tumors. A recent hypothesis suggested that IDO may contribute to the differentiation of new T regulatory cells (Tregs) from naive CD4+ T cells. In this study we investigated the role of IDO in induction of immunosuppression in breast cancer by increasing the apoptosis of T cells and the proportion of Tregs.

Methods

An IDO expression plasmid was constructed and Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells were stably transfected with human IDO. Purified CD3+ T cells were isolated from the peripheral blood monouclear cells of breast cancer patients. After co-culturing IDO expressing or untransfected (control) CHO cells with T cells, T cells apoptosis were determined by flow cytometry analysis and annexin-V and PI staining. The proportion of the regulatory T cell (Tregs [CD4 + CD25 + CD127-]) subset was measured by flow cytometry analysis. T cells total RNA and cellular protein samples were isolated for detecting Foxp3 gene and protein expression.

Results

IDO transgenic CHO cells yielded high levels of IDO enzymatic activity, resulting in complete depletion of tryptophan from the culture medium. We found that apoptosis occurred in 79.07 ± 8.13% of CD3+T cells after co-cultured with IDO+ CHO cells for 3 days and the proportion of CD4 + CD25 + CD127- T cells increased from 3.43 ± 1.07% to 8.98 ± 1.88% (P < 0.05) as well. The specific inhibitor of IDO,1-MT efficiently reversed enhancement of T cells apoptosis and amplification of Tregs in vitro. Increased expression of Foxp3, a key molecular marker of Tregs, was confirmed by RT-PCR, real-time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis at the same time.

Conclusions

These results suggest that IDO helps to create a tolerogenic milieu in breast tumors by directly inducing T cell apoptosis and enhancing Treg-mediated immunosuppression.
Expanding whole exome resequencing into non-human primates
Authors: Vallender Eric J
Published: September 2011

Background

Complete exome resequencing has the power to greatly expand our understanding of non-human primate genomes. This includes both a better appreciation of the variation that exists in non-human primate model species, but also an improved annotation of their genomes. By developing an understanding of the variation between individuals, non-human primate models of human disease can be better developed. This effort is hindered largely by the lack of comprehensive information on specific non-human primate genetic variation and the costs of generating these data. If the tools that have been developed in humans for complete exome resequencing can be applied to closely related non-human primate species, then these difficulties can be circumvented.

Results

Using a human whole exome enrichment technique, chimpanzee and rhesus macaque samples were captured alongside a human sample and sequenced using standard next-generation methodologies. The results from the three species were then compared for efficacy. The chimpanzee sample showed similar coverage levels and distributions following exome capture based on the human genome as the human sample. The rhesus macaque sample showed significant coverage in protein-coding sequence but significantly less in untranslated regions. Both chimpanzee and rhesus macaque showed significant numbers of frameshift mutations compared to self-genomes and suggest a need for further annotation.

Conclusions

Current whole exome resequencing technologies can successfully be used to identify coding-region variation in non-human primates extending into old world monkeys. In addition to identifying variation, whole exome resequencing can aid in better annotation of non-human primate genomes.
The Black Swan
Authors: Moon Michael
Published: September 2011

Lesbian and gay studies was still in its academic infancy when Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick wrote her long-unpublished essay on James Merrill's long poem “The Book of Ephraim” (1976). Sedgwick's essay focuses on what she sees as the poem's fascinated concern with the administration of punishment and pain by one man on another. Written at least partly as a bid for recognition from a major American poet of the time, the essay can also be understood as an early act of engagement on Sedgwick's part with some of the most enduring of her critical and theoretical interests, such as abjected sexualities, nonoedipal psychologies, and the analysis of virtuosic performances (including, eventually, her own) of cultural authority.
Space Frames: The Space Within—A Guided Tour
Authors: Gabriel J. François
Published: September 2011

New configurations as well as new applications are constantly discovered for space structures. There is every indication that this trend will continue for a very longtime.

This paper describes four configurations developed in the last ten years to provide architects with a framework for the accommodation of any building program.

These configurations have their origin in a multi-layer, three-way space frame. They are, however, very different from each other. Although these have been the subjects of separate publications, they are discussed here together for the first time.

The author feels that the discussion of topological aspects of space frames which relate to architectural considerations will make a positive contribution towards a more generalized use of space structures.
Design and Behaviour of Reticulated Spatial Structural Systems
Authors: Hanaor Ariel
Published: September 2011

The paper presents a concise overview of the main features of design and behaviour of reticulated spatial structures, and specifically double layer grids (DLGs) and single layer braced domes. Emphasis is laid on behavioural aspects which are peculiar to these structural systems and which require special attention in design. Some of these features: A susceptibility to progressive collapse; An important role played by joint rigidity, even in stiff systems like DLGs; Sensitivity to imperfections such as member lack of fit in DLGs, and geometrical distortions in shallow domes. Design strategies to deal with these problems and enhance structural efficiency are proposed.
Geodesic Domes: Natural and Man-Made
Authors: Tarnai Tibor
Published: September 2011

In this paper a brief account is devoted to structural forms related to geodesic domes appearance in nature. It is shown how geodesic domes helped researchers outside engineering, in various branches of science, to develope new ideas. The influence of geodesic domes on different fields like biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and golf ball design is also mentioned.
Experimental Investigations on Two and Three Stage Modified Savonius Rotor
Authors: Kamoji M.A. , Kedare S.B. , Prabhu S.V.
Published: September 2011

Single stage modified Savonius rotor (without shaft) is having higher coefficient of power (0.21) compared to single stage conventional Savonius rotor (0.17). Coefficient of static torque is negative for a 1/6th of a cycle from rotor angle 135° to 165° and from 315° to 345°. There is a large variation in the coefficient of static torque in a cycle of 180° from a peak of 0.44 at 30° to a lowest value of −0.21 at 165°. Multi-staging provides positive coefficient of static torque at all rotor angles and reduces large variations in a cycle. Wind tunnel tests were conducted to assess the aerodynamic performance of two and three stage modified Savonius rotors without shaft in between the end plates at different rotor aspect ratios and stage aspect ratios. The coefficient of static torque variations decrease with the increase in the number of stages. However, the coefficient of power decreases with the increase in the number of stages. The effect of intermediate plates on the performance of rotors is also studied. Correlations are developed for all the modified Savonius rotors tested for a range of Reynolds numbers.
Physical and geotechnical characteristics of stabilized and unstabilized tropical peat soil
Authors: Kolay P. , Aminur M.
Published: September 2011

This paper presents physical and geotechnical characteristics of unstabilized (original) and stabilized peat soil samples from Sarawak, Malaysia. Peat soil is heterogeneous, with high compressibility, high water content, low specific gravity and has medium to low permeability. As a result, evaluation of physical and geotechnical properties are very important for any types of construction on it. Different physical and geotechnical properties e.g. organic content, loss on ignition, liquid limit, specific gravity, fiber content, compaction and Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) tests have been carried out on peat soil sample. Locally available fly ash (FA) from coal fired thermal power plant and commercially available quick lime (QL) were used as stabilizers. The amount of FA and QL added to the peat soil sample, is 5 to 25% and 2 to 8%; respectively, for curing periods of 7 to 120 days. The standard Proctor compaction test and UCS test were carried out on original and stabilized peat soil samples with the above mentioned percentages of stabilizer and results show that the UCS value increases significantly with the increase of FA and QL percentage and also with curing periods. But, with 15 to 20 % FA and 6 % QL added with peat soil, the UCS values slightly decreases up to 28 days and again increases after 120 days curing periods. Furthermore, liquid limit and specific gravity tests have been carried out with only for the FA stabilized peat soil samples, in order to comprehend their stabilized behavior.
Axial capacity of circular concrete-filled steel tube columns
Authors: Mimoune Mostefa , Mimoune Fatima , Youcef Mourad
Published: September 2011

In this article, we present an analysis of the axial compression behavior of thin circular tube columns filled with concrete. Experimental study was conducted by using one concrete composition and two lengths of columns. Thirteen columns were tested in axial compression. A comparison of experimental results with Algerian design codes DTR-DC, AIJ, DL/T and the empirical equations from the literature was performed. The analysis results for the thin tube show that the axial capacity in compression is underestimated by the DTR-DC. However, DL/T and AIJ codes are in agreement with test results. The results of empirical equations give different results depending on the length columns and section type.
Influence of Interfacial Pressure Term on the Hyperbolicity of a General Multifluid Model
Authors: Kumbaro Anela , Ndjinga Michaël
Published: September 2011

The multifield model like its counterpart, the two-fluid model, generally fails to be hyperbolic in its basic formulation. However, interfacial forces such as the interfacial pressure term and the virtual mass force, bringing new differential terms to the system, can change the analysis and make the problem hyperbolic. The aim of this paper is to define how the interfacial pressure default force affects the hyperbolicity of a general multifield model, and consequently, its inherent numerical stability. We characterize the location of the non hyperbolic regions and propose a closure for the interfacial pressure that makes the system hyperbolic in physically relevant regions.
Synaptic and Intrinsic Balancing during Postnatal Development in Rat Pups Exposed to Valproic Acidin Utero
Authors: Walcott Elisabeth C. , Higgins Emily A. , Desai Niraj S.
Published: September 2011

Valproic acid (VPA) is among the most teratogenic of commonly prescribed anticonvulsants, increasing the risk in humans of major malformations and impaired cognitive development. Likewise, rats exposed prenatally to VPA exhibit a variety of neuroanatomical and behavioral abnormalities. Previous work has shown that pyramidal neuron physiology in young VPA-exposed animals is marked by two strong abnormalities: an impairment in intrinsic neuronal excitability and an increase in NMDA synaptic currents. In this study, we investigated these abnormalities across postnatal development using whole-cell patch recordings from layer 2/3 neurons of medial prefrontal cortex. We found that both abnormalities were at a peak soon after birth but were gradually corrected as animals matured, to the extent that normal excitability and NMDA currents had been restored by early adolescence. The manner in which this correction happened suggested coordination between the two processes. Using computational models fitted to the physiological data, we argue that the two abnormalities trade off against each other, with the effects on network activity of the one balancing the effects of the other. This may constitute part of the nervous system's homeostatic response to teratogenic insult: an attempt to maintain stability despite a strong challenge.