bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic Conditions and Health Problems in Rheumatic Diseases: Comparisons with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Noninflammatory Rheumatic Disorders, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Fibromyalgia
Authors: WOLFE FREDERICK , MICHAUD KALEB , LI TRACY , KATZ ROBERT S.
Published: January 2010

Objectives.

To describe and compare the prevalence of lifetime and current self-reported comorbidity and associated quality of life in 4 rheumatic diseases, and to investigate comorbid conditions in light of the overlap between the index condition and comorbid conditions (CC), and in the context of symptom-type diagnoses.

Methods.

We studied comorbidity in 11,704 patients with fibromyalgia (FM), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and noninflammatory rheumatic disorders (NIRD). Patients completed semiannual self-reports relating to 22 present and past illnesses and completed the EuroQol (EQ-5D) utility index.

Results.

CC were most common in FM, followed by SLE. FM comorbidity was dominated by depression, mental illness, and symptom-type comorbidity (e.g., gastrointestinal and genitourinary disorders). In SLE, there were substantial increases in hypertension, depression, cataract, fractures, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular, neurologic, lung, gall bladder and endocrine disorders compared with RA. Any current CC reduced the EQ-5D utility by 0.08 to 0.16 units. The lowest EQ-5D score was noted for current psychiatric illness (0.55) and current depression (0.60).

Conclusion.

Four patterns of comorbidity emerged: that associated with aging; that associated with aging but enhanced by the index condition, as in SLE and cardiovascular disease; comorbidity that is part of the symptoms complex of the index condition; and CC that represent lifetime traits or manifestations of the underlying illness. Depression was the most strongly associated correlate of EQ-5D quality of life, and current depression was present in about 15% of patients with RA or NIRD and 34% to 39% of those with SLE and FM.
Vitamin D and the Immune System: Table 1.
Authors: MARUOTTI NICOLA , CANTATORE FRANCESCO PAOLO
Published: January 2010

Evidence of the role of vitamin D in the regulation of T and B cells, macrophages, dendritic cells, and keratinocytes continues to accumulate and provides a link between vitamin D and many autoimmune diseases, including Crohn’s disease, juvenile diabetes mellitus, multiple sclerosis, asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. Considering the influence of vitamin D on the immune system, it may have potential as a treatment for immune-mediated diseases, even if additional research is required to better quantify dosage. But the biggest obstacle to its clinical use is its potent hypercalcemic effect. The calcium status of the host may influence the effect of vitamin D on immunity.
Abatacept for Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cochrane Systematic Review
Authors: MAXWELL LARA J. , SINGH JASVINDER A.
Published: January 2010

Objective.

To perform a systematic review of efficacy and safety of abatacept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods.

We searched the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ACP Journal Club, and Biosis Previews for randomized controlled trials (RCT) comparing abatacept alone or in combination with disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD)/biologics to placebo or other DMARD/biologics in patients with RA. Two reviewers independently assessed search results, risk of bias, and extracted data.

Results.

Seven trials with 2908 patients were included. Compared with placebo, patients with RA treated with abatacept were 2.2 times more likely to achieve an American College of Rheumatology 50% response (ACR50) at one year (relative risk 2.21, 95% CI 1.73, 2.82) with a 21% (95% CI 16%, 27%) absolute risk difference between groups. The number needed to treat to achieve an ACR50 response was 5 (95% CI 4, 7). Significantly greater improvements in physical function, disease activity, pain, and radiographic progression were noted in abatacept-treated patients compared to placebo. Total adverse events (AE) were greater in the abatacept group (RR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01, 1.08). Other harm outcomes were not significant, with the exception of serious infections at 12 months, which were more common in the abatacept group versus control group (Peto odds ratio 1.91, 95% CI 1.07, 3.42). Serious AE were more numerous in the abatacept + etanercept group versus the placebo + etanercept group (RR 2.30, 95% CI 1.15, 4.62).

Conclusion.

Abatacept seems to be efficacious and safe in the treatment of RA. Abatacept should not be used in combination with other biologics to treat RA. Further longterm studies and postmarketing surveillance are required to assess for longer-term harms and sustained efficacy.
Avant-garde Pedagogical Practise Utilizing Virtual Environments and Machinima in Systems Development
Authors: Dreher Naomi , Dreher Heinz
Published: January 2010

Inspired by the success of the Students @ Work project [1] run at Hamburg University, Curtin University (Perth, Western Australia) has recently concluded the running of a pilot course in Second Life with their Information Systems Project (ISP) students. The need for a change was evident as student motivation and engagement in the Final Year ISP course was strikingly low. Left with such a tall order for improvement, the ISP teaching staff looked to find suitable options for change. Staff combined new and interesting tools in an effort to boost and maintain student interest, specifically the Second Life virtual environment and a screen capturing technique known as Machinima.
Personal Learning Environment – A Conceptual Study
Authors: Taraghi Behnam , Ebner Martin , Till Gerald , Mühlburger Herbert
Published: January 2010

The influence of digital technologies as well as the World Wide Web on education rises dramatically. In former years Learning Management Systems (LMS) were introduced on educational institutes to address the needs both their institutions and their lecturers. Nowadays a shift from an institution-centered approach to a learner-centered one becomes necessary to allow individuality through the learning process and to think about learning strategies in general. In this paper a first approach of a Personal Learning Environment (PLE) is described. The technological concept is pointed out as well as a study about the graphical user-interface done at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz). It can be concluded that PLEs are the next generation environments, which help to improve the learning and teaching behavior
Biology and Seasonal History of Pleurotropis utahensis Crawford, a Parasite of the Wheat Stem Sawfly
Authors: Neilson C. L.
Published: January 2010

Pleurotropis utahensis Crawford was first reported as a parasite of the wheat stem sawfly, Cephus cinctus Nort., by Crawford (2) prior to 1913. It has been recorded by Crawford (2) from Kimball and Salt Lake City, Utah; by Ainslie (1) from North Dakota; and by Gahan (5) from Missoula, Montana. It is one of several parasites of the wheat stem sawfly in the Prairie Provinces of Canada, where it has been recorded (7) (8) as far west as Sylvan Lake, Alberta. Criddle (3) (4), and in his original notes, records it from as far east as Boissevain, Manitoba. During the present study this parasite has been collected from sufficient locations that one might assume that it occurs throughout the area where wheat stem sawfly is found (6) in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Peroxynitrite-Dependent Killing of Cancer Cells and Presentation of Released Tumor Antigens by Activated Dendritic Cells
Authors: Fraszczak Jennifer , Trad Malika , Janikashvili Nona , Cathelin Dominique , Lakomy Daniela , Granci Virginie , Morizot Alexandre , Audia Sylvain , Micheau Olivier , Lagrost Laurent , Katsanis Emmanuel , Solary Eric , Larmonier Nicolas , Bonnotte Bernard
Published: January 2010

Dendritic cells (DCs), essential for the initiation and regulation of adaptive immune responses, have been used as anticancer vaccines. DCs may also directly trigger tumor cell death. In the current study, we have investigated the tumoricidal and immunostimulatory activities of mouse bone marrow-derived DCs. Our results indicate that these cells acquire killing capabilities toward tumor cells only when activated with LPS or Pam3Cys-SK4. Using different transgenic mouse models including inducible NO synthase or GP91 knockout mice, we have further established that LPS- or Pam3Cys-SK4–activated DC killing activity involves peroxynitrites. Importantly, after killing of cancer cells, DCs are capable of engulfing dead tumor cell fragments and of presenting tumor Ags to specific T lymphocytes. Thus, upon specific stimulation, mouse bone marrow-derived DCs can directly kill tumor cells through a novel peroxynitrite-dependent mechanism and participate at virtually all levels of antitumor immune responses, which reinforces their interest in immunotherapy.
Th17 Cells Are the Dominant T Cell Subtype Primed by Shigella flexneri Mediating Protective Immunity
Authors: Sellge Gernot , Magalhaes Joao G. , Konradt Christoph , Fritz Jörg H. , Salgado-Pabon Wilmara , Eberl Gérard , Bandeira Antonio , Di Santo James P. , Sansonetti Phillippe J. , Phalipon Armelle
Published: January 2010

The T cell response to Shigella, the causative agent of bacillary dysentery, remains poorly understood. Using a murine model of infection, we report that Shigella flexneri primes predominately IL-17A– and IL-22–producing Th17 cells. Shigella-specific Th1 cells are only significantly induced on secondary infection, whereas specific Th2 and CD8+ T cells are undetectable. Apart from Th17 cells that are primed in a MHC class II- and IL-6–dependent, but IL12/23p40-independent manner, we identified γδ T cells as an additional but minor source of IL-17A. Priming of IL-17A+ γδ T cells is dependent on IL12/23p40, but independent of MHC-class II and IL-6. Th17 cells have emerged as important players in inflammatory, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. Among the yet unresolved questions is their role in long-term immunity to pathogens. In this study, we show that the elicited S. flexneri-specific Th17 pool gives rise to an enhanced recall response up to 12 mo after priming, suggesting the presence of a long-term memory state. The clearance of primary infection is impaired in the absence of T cells, but independently of IL-17A. However, after reinfection, IL-17A produced by S. flexneri-specific Th17 cells becomes important to ultimately restrict bacterial growth. These findings bring new insights into the adaptive immune response to Shigella infection and highlight the importance of pathogen-specific Th17 cell immunity for secondary immune protection.
Natural Expression of the CD19 Antigen Impacts the Long-Term Engraftment but Not Antitumor Activity of CD19-Specific Engineered T Cells
Authors: Cheadle Eleanor J. , Hawkins Robert E. , Batha Hayley , O’Neill Allison L. , Dovedi Simon J. , Gilham David E.
Published: January 2010

T cells gene-modified to express chimeric Ag receptors (CARs) have shown potent antitumor activity in vivo and are in clinical trials at locations worldwide. However, CAR activity has been investigated in mouse models in which Ag expression is restricted to the tumor. To explore the impact of normal tissue expression of the target Ag, we developed a mouse CD19-specific CAR to investigate antitumor efficacy against a syngeneic B cell lymphoma cell line within a background of normal CD19+ host B cells. Mouse T cells engrafted with the amCD19CD3ζ CAR specifically lysed A20 lymphoma targets and B cells in vitro. These T cells also eradicated a 12-d established disseminated A20 lymphoma in mice preconditioned with 6 Gy total body irradiation. In the short-term (7 d after adoptive transfer), amCD19z T cells underwent Ag-dependent proliferation in vivo with a concomitant depletion in host B cell levels. However, the levels of amCD19z CAR+ T cells decreased significantly at later time points, at which point host B cells returned, eventually reaching normal levels. In contrast, CAR+ T cells lacking a signaling domain or specificity for mCD19 persisted over extended periods in blood and spleen. Importantly, no overt clinical signs of autotoxicity were observed in tumor-free or tumor-bearing mice treated with amCD19z T cells over an extended period of time. These observations highlight the importance of studying the activity of CAR+ T cells in autologous models that have the normal range of tissue expression of Ag.
Enteric Flora Expands Gut Lamina Propria CX3CR1+ Dendritic Cells Supporting Inflammatory Immune Responses under Normal and Inflammatory Conditions
Authors: Niess Jan Hendrik , Adler Guido
Published: January 2010

CD103 or CX3CR1 surface expression defines distinct dendritic cells (DCs) and macrophages in the murine lamina propria of the colon (cLP). We investigated the surface marker and functional phenotype of CD103+ and CX3CR1+ cLP DCs and their role in transfer colitis. cLP CD11c+ cells were isolated from specific pathogen-free or germ-free mice to elucidate the role of the commensal flora in their development. The cLP CD11c+ cells are a heterogeneous cell population that includes 16% CX3CR1+, 34% CD103+, 30% CD103−CX3CR1− DCs, and 17% CD68+/F4/80+CX3CR1+CD11c+ macrophages. All DCs expressed high levels of MHC II but low levels of costimulatory (CD40, CD86, and CD80) and coinhibitory (programmed death ligand-1) molecules. Ex vivo confocal microscopy demonstrated that CX3CR1+CD11c+ cells, but not CD103+ DCs, were reduced in the cLP of germ-free (CX3CR1-GFP) mice. The absence of the enteric flora prevents the formation of transepithelial processes by the CX3CR1+ DCs. CX3CR1+ DCs preferentially supported Th1/Th17 CD4 T cell differentiation. CD103+ DCs preferentially induced the differentiation of Foxp3-expressing regulatory T cells. The stimulation of cLP DCs with fractalkine/CX3CL1 increased the release of IL-6 and TNF-α. In the absence of CX3CR1, the CD45RBhigh CD4 transfer colitis was suppressed and associated with reduced numbers of DCs in the mesenteric lymph nodes and a reduction in serum IFN-γ and IL-17. The local bacteria-driven accumulation of CX3CR1+ DCs seems to support inflammatory immune responses.
Ro60-Associated Single-Stranded RNA Links Inflammation with Fetal Cardiac Fibrosis via Ligation of TLRs: A Novel Pathway to Autoimmune-Associated Heart Block
Authors: Clancy Robert M. , Alvarez David , Komissarova Elena , Barrat Franck J. , Swartz Jordan , Buyon Jill P.
Published: January 2010

Activation of TLR by ssRNA after FcγR-mediated phagocytosis of immune complexes (IC) may be relevant in autoimmune-associated congenital heart block (CHB) where the obligate factor is a maternal anti-SSA/Ro Ab and the fetal factors, protein/RNA on an apoptotic cardiocyte and infiltrating macrophages. This study addressed the hypothesis that Ro60-associated ssRNAs link macrophage activation to fibrosis via TLR engagement. Both macrophage transfection with noncoding ssRNA that bind Ro60 and an IC generated by incubation of Ro60-ssRNA with an IgG fraction from a CHB mother or affinity purified anti-Ro60 significantly increased TNF-α secretion, an effect not observed using control RNAs or normal IgG. Dependence on TLR was supported by the significant inhibition of TNF-α release by IRS661 and chloroquine. The requirement for FcγRIIIa-mediated delivery was provided by inhibition with an anti-CD16a Ab. Fibrosis markers were noticeably increased in fetal cardiac fibroblasts after incubation with supernatants generated from macrophages transfected with ssRNA or incubated with the IC. Supernatants generated from macrophages with ssRNA in the presence of IRS661 or chloroquine did not cause fibrosis. In a CHB heart, but not a healthy heart, TLR7 immunostaining was localized to a region near the atrioventricular groove at a site enriched in mononuclear cells and fibrosis. These data support a novel injury model in CHB, whereby endogenous ligand, Ro60-associated ssRNA, forges a nexus between TLR ligation and fibrosis instigated by binding of anti-Ro Abs to the target protein likely accessible via apoptosis.
Stress-Induced Glucocorticoids at the Earliest Stages of Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Infection Suppress Subsequent Antiviral Immunity, Implicating Impaired Dendritic Cell Function
Authors: Elftman Michael D. , Hunzeker John T. , Mellinger Jennifer C. , Bonneau Robert H. , Norbury Christopher C. , Truckenmiller Mary E.
Published: January 2010

The systemic elevation of psychological stress-induced glucocorticoids strongly suppresses CD8+ T cell immune responses resulting in diminished antiviral immunity. However, the specific cellular targets of stress/glucocorticoids, the timing of exposure, the chronology of immunological events, and the underlying mechanisms of this impairment are incompletely understood. In this study, we address each of these questions in the context of a murine cutaneous HSV infection. We show that exposure to stress or corticosterone in only the earliest stages of an HSV-1 infection is sufficient to suppress, in a glucocorticoid receptor-dependent manner, the subsequent antiviral immune response after stress/corticosterone has been terminated. This suppression resulted in early onset and delayed resolution of herpetic lesions, reduced viral clearance at the site of infection and draining popliteal lymph nodes (PLNs), and impaired functions of HSV-specific CD8+ T cells in PLNs, including granzyme B and IFN-γ production and the ability to degranulate. In knockout mice lacking glucocorticoid receptors only in T cells, we show that these impaired CD8+ T cell functions are not due to direct effects of stress/corticosterone on the T cells, but the ability of PLN-derived dendritic cells to prime HSV-1–specific CD8+ T cells is functionally impaired. These findings highlight the susceptibility of critical early events in the generation of an antiviral immune response to neuroendocrine modulation and implicate dendritic cells as targets of stress/glucocorticoids in vivo. These findings also provide insight into the mechanisms by which the clinical use of glucocorticoids contributes to altered immune responses in patients with viral infections or tumors.
TLR9 Regulates TLR7- and MyD88-Dependent Autoantibody Production and Disease in a Murine Model of Lupus
Authors: Nickerson Kevin M. , Christensen Sean R. , Shupe Jonathan , Kashgarian Michael , Kim Daniel , Elkon Keith , Shlomchik Mark J.
Published: January 2010

Systemic lupus erythematosus is characterized by the production of autoantibodies against nucleic acid-associated Ags. We previously found that Tlr7 was required for anti-Sm and Tlr9 for anti-chromatin autoantibodies. Yet, although Tlr7 deficiency ameliorated disease, Tlr9 deficiency exacerbated it. Despite the mechanistic and clinical implications of this finding, it has yet to be elucidated. In this study, we characterize MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice genetically deficient in Tlr7, Tlr9, both Tlr7 and Tlr9, or Myd88 to test whether Tlr7 and Tlr9 function independently or instead regulate each other. We find that disease that is regulated by Tlr9 (and hence is worse in its absence) depends on Tlr7 for its manifestation. In addition, although Tlr7 and Tlr9 act in parallel pathways on different subsets of autoantibodies, Tlr9 also suppresses the production of Tlr7-dependent RNA-associated autoantibodies, suggesting previously unrecognized cross-regulation of autoantibody production as well. By comparing disease in mice deficient for Tlr7 and/or Tlr9 to those lacking Myd88, we also identify aspects of disease that have Tlr- and Myd88-independent components. These results suggest new models for how Tlr9 regulates and Tlr7 enhances disease and provide insight into aspects of autoimmune disease that are, and are not, influenced by TLR signals.
Inraoperative and Histological Visualization of Disrupted Vulnerable Plaques following Diagnostic Angiography of Moderate Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Mutoh Tatsushi , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Suzuki Akifumi , Yasui Nobuyuki
Published: January 2010

Background. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) remains an important tool for diagnosis of carotid stenosis but is associated with risk for periprocedural complications. This is the first report of direct intraoperative and histolopathologic visualization of DSA-related carotid plaque disruption.Case. A 64-year-old man diagnosed to have a 60% right carotid stenosis received diagnostic DSA for therapeutic decision-making. He developed transient left hand numbness and weakness immediately after the procedure. Intraoperative imaging during carotid endarterectomy revealed a fragile plaque with sharp surface laceration and intraplaque hemorrhage at the bifurcation. Microscopy of the specimen demonstrated a large atheromatous plaque with fibrous hypertrophy and intraplaque hemorrhage filled with recent hemorrhagic debris.Conclusion. The visualized carotid lesion was more serious than expected, warning the danger of embolization or occlusion associated with the catheter maneuvers. Thus the highest level of practitioner training and technical expertise that ensures precise assessment of plaque characteristics should be encouraged.
Method to describe curing in large epoxy samples
Authors: Kasza Krzysztof , Matysiak Lukasz , Malinowski Lukasz
Published: January 2010

Curing kinetics models used in numerical simulations describe the exothermic chemical reaction of thermosetting materials. The mathematical formula known as Kamal's model is discussed in the following paper. Traditionally, the coefficients of Kamal's equations are estimated based on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements and results from an experimental verification of such created curing kinetics model are presented. Furthermore, an inverse analysis is proposed for additional adjustment of the model. The new coefficients thus found provide better accuracy in the computer simulations. The methodology of development of the curing kinetics model is proposed as an alternative solution to the standard DSC measurements. Particularly, it could be useful for materials with a complex structure, such as composites. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 28:267–275, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/adv.20162
Polarization curves for an alkaline water electrolysis at a small pin vertical electrode to produce hydrogen
Authors: Mandin Ph. , Wüthrich R. , Roustan H.
Published: January 2010

During two‐phase electrolysis for hydrogen production, according with alkaline–water electrolysis process, there are bubbles which are created at electrodes which imply a great hydrodynamic acceleration in the normal earth gravity field and then a quite important electrical properties and electrochemical processes disturbance, for both transport and reaction. This disturbance can lead to the modification of the local current density and to anode effects for example. In this work, a model experimental set‐up is studied. The vertical pine electrode of small electro active surface area is surrounded with a large surface counter electrode. The hydrogen production is performed at the working electrode and effort is focused here upon the global electrochemical cell electrical performances. The polarization curves intensity vs. applied voltage are experimentally measured and presented for different factors such as: the electro active species concentration, nature and counter electrode diameter factors. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Characterization and use of acid‐activated montmorillonite‐illite type of clay for lead(II) removal
Authors: Kennedy Oubagaranadin John U. , Murthy Z. V. P.
Published: January 2010

The natural local deposits of montmorillonite‐illite type of clay (MIC) were susceptible for acid activation. Raw clay was taken for experimentation, disintegrated on acid activation with sulfuric acid, which showed a particle size distribution. The montmorillonite and illite phases in the raw clay disappeared on acid activation and the activated clay, MIC(AA), showed with sodium‐aluminum‐silicate and beidellite phases apart from quartz (low) phase. The raw and acid‐activated clays were characterized using X‐ray powder diffractometry, X‐ray fluorescence, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and energy dispersive X‐ray, and their adsorption capacities were compared. When tested for adsorption of Pb(II) in aqueous solutions, the acid‐activated clay showed about 50% increased adsorption than raw clay. Sips adsorption isotherm and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models were found to be best for the batch adsorption data. Kinetic studies showed the existence of film diffusion and intraparticle diffusion. A two‐stage batch adsorber was designed for the removal of Pb(II) from aqueous solutions. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Analysis of fluidization quality of a fluidized bed with staged gas feed for reactions involving gas‐volume reduction
Authors: Kai Takami , Furukawa Mitsunobu , Nakazato Tsutomu , Tsutsui Toshio , Mizuta Kei , Nakajima Mitsuyuki
Published: January 2010

A significant defluidization occurs when carrying out reactions involving a decrease in gas volume in a fluidized catalyst bed. The cause of this phenomenon is a decrease in the gas velocity in the emulsion phase below the minimum fluidization velocity. Fluidization quality is improved by a staged gas feed when hydrogenation of CO2 is carried out. To evaluate the experimental results, two parameters are introduced; gas‐volume reduction rate and gas‐volume ratio. Fluidization quality and defluidization zone are indicated as a map using these parameters. The vertical distributions of these parameters are calculated using a reactor model to obtain operating lines. The calculation shows that fluidization quality can be improved by operating the reactor by avoiding the operating lines of the defluidization zone in the map. For this purpose, it is required to control the gas‐volume ratio at a level near unity and maintain the gas‐volume reduction rate below 0.01/s. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Support‐dependent activity of noble metal substituted oxide catalysts for the water gas shift reaction
Authors: Deshpande Parag A. , Madras Giridhar
Published: January 2010

The water gas shift reaction was carried out over noble metal ion substituted nanocrystalline oxide catalysts with different supports. Spectroscopic studies of the catalysts before and after the reaction showed different surface phenomena occurring over the catalysts. Reaction mechanisms were proposed based upon the surface processes and intermediates formed. The dual site mechanism utilizing the oxide ion vacancies for water dissociation and metal ions for CO adsorption was proposed to describe the kinetics of the reaction over the reducible oxides like CeO2. A mechanism based on the interaction of adsorbed CO and the hydroxyl group was proposed for the reaction over ZrO2. A hybrid mechanism based on oxide ion vacancies and surface hydroxyl groups was proposed for the reaction over TiO2. The deactivation of the catalysts was also found to be support dependent. Kinetic models for both activation and deactivation were proposed. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2010
Technical note: A new method for measuring long bone curvature using 3D landmarks and semi‐landmarks
Authors: De Groote Isabelle , Lockwood Charles A. , Aiello Leslie C.
Published: January 2010

Here we describe and evaluate a new method for quantifying long bone curvature using geometric morphometric and semi‐landmark analysis of the human femur. The technique is compared with traditional ways of measuring subtense and point of maximum curvature using either coordinate calipers or projection onto graph paper. Of the traditional methods the graph paper method is more reliable than using coordinate calipers. Measurement error is consistently lower for measuring point of maximum curvature than for measuring subtense. The results warrant caution when comparing data collected by the different traditional methods. Landmark data collection proves reliable and has a low measurement error. However, measurement error increases with the number of semi‐landmarks included in the analysis of curvature. Measurements of subtense can be estimated more reliably using 3D landmarks along the curve than using traditional techniques. We use equidistant semi‐landmarks to quantify the curve because sliding the semi‐landmarks masks the curvature signal. Principal components analysis of these equidistant semi‐landmarks provides the added benefit of describing the shape of the curve. These results are promising for functional and forensic analysis of long bone curvature in modern human populations and in the fossil record. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphology and function of the lumbar spine of the Kebara 2 Neandertal
Authors: Been Ella , Peleg Smadar , Marom Assaf , Barash Alon
Published: January 2010

The morphology of the lumbar spine is crucial for upright posture and bipedal walking in hominids. The excellent preservation of the lumbar spine of Kebara 2 provides us a rare opportunity to observe a complete spine and explore its functionally relevant morphology. The lumbar spine of Kebara 2 is analyzed and compared with the lumbar spines of modern humans and late Pleistocene hominids. Although no size differences between the vertebral bodies and pedicles of Kebara 2 and modern humans are found, significant differences in the size and orientation of the transverse processes (L1‐L4), and the laminae (L5, S1) are demonstrated. The similarity in the size of the vertebral bodies and pedicles of Kebara 2 and modern humans suggests similarity in axial load transmission along the lumbar spine. The laterally projected (L2‐L4) and the cranially oriented (L1, L3) transverse processes of Kebara 2 show an advantage for lateral flexion of the lumbar spine compared with modern humans. The characteristic morphology of the lumbar spine of Kebara 2 might be related to the wide span of its pelvic bones. Am J Phys Anthropol 142:549–557, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of hyperbranched poly(3‐methyl‐3‐hydroxymethyloxetane) and their application to separate basic proteins by adsorption coated column
Authors: Shou Chongqi , Song Nanjing , Zhang Zhiliang
Published: January 2010

A series of hyperbranched poly(3‐methyl‐3‐hydroxymethyloxetane)s with different degree of branching were synthesized using BF3·OEt2 as initiator and coated on the inner surface of the fused‐silica capillaries. In the pH range of 3–9, the coated capillaries reduced electro‐osmotic flow by about four times lower than the bare fused‐silica capillary. The coated capillaries also displayed good resistance to adsorption of cationic proteins, providing clean separations of a mixture of Lysozyme, Cytochrome c, and Ribonuclease A around pH 3–6 in phosphate buffer. The separation efficiency in terms of peak shape was excellent compared with bare fuse‐silica capillary. The separation efficiency of hyperbranched poly(3‐methyl‐3‐hydroxymethyloxetane) with degree of branching of 0.43‐coated capillary column for Lysozyme reached 106 plates/m with a resolution of 7.1, and the coated capillary column had good migration time reproducibility. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Simulation of polyester melt spinning with axial quench for increasing productivity
Authors: Sumesh P.T. , Mathur T.P. , Agarwal U.S.
Published: January 2010

Production of polyester filament involves melt spinning into partially oriented yarn (POY), followed by drawing to enhance the bulk and mechanical properties. The industrial demand of increasing productivity is generally met by increasing POY melt spinning speeds, which is limited by increasing polymer chain orientation (and reducing residual drawability) in the POY produced at higher spinning speeds. Modification of the quench geometry during melt spinning is claimed to allow reduction of air drag and polymer chain orientation, permitting an increase in productivity during melt spinning into POY. We present a simple way for modeling the quenching of molten filaments under the modified (axial) air flow. Numerical simulations of the melt spinning are developed to demonstrate the influence of the quench geometry modification as we compare the process with the conventional cross‐flow quench and the modified axial quench. We find that increasing quench air flow reduces the polymer chain orientation, in contrast to the well known effect in cross‐flow quench. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Ecto‐5′‐Nucleotidase‐Positive Cells in the Choroid and Ciliary Body of the Rat Eye
Authors: Braun Johann Sebastian
Published: January 2010

Adenosine is known to exert multiple functions within the eye. The aim of this report was to find out if adenosine can be produced locally in the choroid and ciliary body. Therefore, I investigated the distribution of ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase (5′‐NT), the key enzyme for the production of extracellular adenosine. This report provides evidence that 5′‐NT is expressed in the choroid and in the ciliary body (and its processes) of the rat eye, predominantly in endothelial cells. These locations of 5′‐NT indicate strategically important production sites of adenosine regulating choroid and ciliary body functions (e.g., blood flow, aqueous fluid production, and immune response). Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A model of stoppings on urban bus routes
Authors: Banks James H.
Published: January 2010

The amount of time required to pick up and discharge passengers is an important issue in the planning and modeling of urban bus systems. Several past studies have employed models of this component of bus travel time which are based, in part, on a model of the number of stoppings the bus makes to pick up or discharge passengers. Most past versions of this model have assumed that expected demand does not vary from stop to stop or from trip to trip, but that the number of passengers demanding service at any given stop during any given trip follows a Poisson distribution. An alternative model is derived, based on the assumption that expected demand varies among stops and times of day but is fixed from day to day at any given stop and time of day. Boarding and alighting survey data are used to verify that the “average‐demand” Poisson model consistently overestimates the number of stoppings and to calibrate an approximate version of the alternative model. A stop‐spacing optimization model previously developed by Kikuchi and Vuchic is reevaluated using the alternative stopping model in place of the average demand model used in the original version. The results are found to be considerably different, thus indicating that transit route optimization models are sensitive to the way in which stopping processes are modeled.
Normative framework for transit fare policy‐making
Authors: Cervero Robert
Published: January 2010

This paper presents a normative model for transit fare policy‐making. Key elements of the model are: establishing service policy and ridership objectives, developing an overall financial philosophy, making fare level decisions, making structural pricing decisions, and designing implementation strategies. In general, the overall objectives of a transit agency regarding service quality and ridership levels should be the main impetus behind any fare program. Identifying where transit lies on the continuum of being a public versus a private service should frame the overall financial philosophy of a transit agency. From this the specification of farebox recovery targets should follow. Deciding upon structural aspects of a fare program perhaps represents one of the most important and most frequently overlooked steps of the process. Specific cost‐based and value‐based fare strategies should be considered. Implementation involves making the adopted fare strategy work. Key implementation issues are: fare payment and collection techniques, necessary service changes, marketing and promotional programs, and consensus‐building. The model presented calls for feedback among these steps to allow an iterative, yet comprehensive, approach to fare policy‐setting.
Local public support for an innovative transit system
Authors: Trent Roger B. , Bernard H. Russell
Published: January 2010

Little is known about the sources of public support for transit systems even though the perceptions of transit users and potential users have been extensively documented. Research reported here examines dimensions of public support for the first U.S. downtown people mover during three critical phases in the system's life: construction, shakedown, and operations. The method employed was a community sample survey with home interviews. Data analysis showed that the public—who were virtually all nonusers—were largely favorable toward the system during the construction phase. During the shakedown phase, when system reliability was extremely low, many attitudes toward the system became less favorable, especially perceptions of performance and direct community impacts. Later, reliability improved, and attitudes which had become less favorable tended to grow more favorable once again. It is suggested that a system's performance can influence many aspects of public support for a transit system, even among nonusers. This pattern has implications for system planners who must depend on public good will for continuing support of transit systems. In particular, extensive pretesting of new systems should occur before the fare gates are opened to patrons.
Location of bus garages
Authors: Waters N. M. , Wirasinghe S. C. , Babalola A. , Marion K. E. D.
Published: January 2010

The location of bus garages is a complex issue that has received recent attention in the literature. Given a bus system, the number of bus garages and their locations depend on garage cost, deadheading cost and environmental impacts. An approximate analytical model is used to determine the number of bus garages that minimizes the above costs. The concept of a slowly varying density of bus‐route origins (hence deadheads) per unit area is used to model deadheading costs. The increased deadheading caused by breakdowns and accidents is also considered. The garage cost is modeled as a function of the number of buses stored. A closed‐form solution is obtained for the optimal density of garages, when the garage cost function is linear. The actual locations of garages and the allocations of buses to the garages are found using a discrete space location‐allocation model formulated so as to consider the environmental impact associated with buses deadheading through populated neighborhoods.
Rail freight transportation: A review of recent optimization models for train routing and empty car distribution
Authors: Haghani Ali E.
Published: January 2010

This paper describes two types of rail transportation problems in detail. These are train routing and makeup, and empty car distribution problems. Some of the recent optimization models which address these problems are reviewed and the areas for potential improvements in rail transportation literature are identified. The type of interactions which exist between routing, makeup, and empty car distribution decisions are highlighted and potential areas for future research are identified.
Facing the challenge of the future by strategic planning for public transport in Germany
Authors: Nickel Bernhard E.
Published: January 2010

Dramatic deteriorations in the future development of demographic and socio‐economic factors having a decisive impact on public transport demand in 2000 ‐ 2030 are predicted.

How can a reasonable public transport service be maintained under these changing conditions? Depending on the entrepreneurial objectives defined individually by each public transport company a range of strategic actions must be taken in the field of offer and performance: Advancing strategies, consolidation strategies and defensive strategies are discussed with the stress laid on improving service in order to attract more ridership.
How reliable is the bureau of motor carrier safety truck accident data?
Authors: Alassar Louai A. , Waters Robert C.
Published: January 2010

This paper examines the degree of compliance with the accident reporting requirements imposed by the Bureau of Motor Carrier Safety (BMCS) of the U.S. Department of Transportation on motor carriers involved in interstate and foreign transport. It also examines the reliability and validity of the accident information reported by these carriers to the BMCS. The study shows that there is a high degree of accident underreporting, especially by the private and exempt carriers, and that the information reported on variables such as cargo weight, gross vehicle weights, and usage of seat belts at the time of accident, is biased toward the interests of the reporters of the accidents.
Improved customs inspection at a small international airport: Case study: Colombo
Authors: Wirasinghe S. C. , Perera M.
Published: January 2010

The present procedures for processing arriving passengers at the Colombo International Airport cause inordinte waiting times. An alternate plan, which is based on state of the art customs procedures, and which can reduce waiting times significantly while maintaining a high level of enforcement, is proposed. The present and proposed procedures are analyzed and compared with respect to passenger waiting times, using deterministic queueing theory. An optimal inspection rate of passengers by the customs service is proposed taking into account the fraction of inspected passengers, the waiting time of passengers and the cost of customs processing.
The development of high speed in Spanish railways
Authors: Pita A. López
Published: January 2010

In December 1988, the Spanish government decided to build a new line from Madrid to the French border (via Barcelona). A line that would link up with the new Madrid‐Seville line, having a total length (Seville‐French border) of approximately 1200 km.

This paper succinctly describes the path followed by Spanish railways for the purpose of being able to offer a high speed service. The main features of the Madrid‐Seville line are described, and the plans currently envisaged for linking this line up with the French high‐speed network via the new Madrid‐Barcelona‐Perpignan line are presented.
The development of low‐floor trams
Authors: Hondius Harry
Published: January 2010

The gradual development of trams, i.e., streetcars or trolley cars, from 1950 till 1980 was abruptly interrupted in the early eighties by the arrival of the low‐floor car. Six factories in FRG and Austria, one in Switzerland and one in Belgium virtually covered the market based on what roughly could be defined as three designs. Today each of these makers has its own design(s) complemented by those of four italian, one swiss and one french builder. This article aims to give a synthesis of the development. Which designs have so far emerged as leading in volume, what are the technological tendencies that can be traced. What are the price consequences of the development.
VAL automated guided transit characteristics and evolutions
Authors: Lardennois Regis
Published: January 2010

VAL (Light Automated Vehicle) is a medium capacity driverless automated guideway transit system. It has demonstrated both technical feasibility and economical performance of driverless operation applied to a metro line.

It includes several advanced well proven technologies. Since the first line design, the product has been adapted to various operating requirements and enhanced by application of further technological evolutions in several areas: Automatic Train Control, Rolling Stock, Track.
Tackling traffic congestion in Accra, Ghana: A road user's perspective
Authors: Abane A. M.
Published: January 2010

A fast emerging component of the urban transportation problem in cities of the Third World is the problem of traffic congestion. Rapid increases in car ownership coupled with poor land use planning, inadequate road space, lack of regulated parking systems, uneducated use of the road by pedestrians, and bad driving behavior of motorists have all combined to produce congestions comparable to those experienced in cities in the advanced parts of the world. Traffic management measures have been tried in some of the major cities such as road expansion and redistribution of land uses in city centers, but most have produced minimal results. It is recommended in this paper that city authorities adopt an integrated approach to congestion with emphasis on influencing the behavior of the road users.
Integrated land use transportation planning in facilitating and guiding the industrialization process in developing countries: The case of the Johor Bahru metropolitan area
Authors: Siong Ho Chin , Konno Akira
Published: January 2010

The developing countries in their effort in promoting and guiding their industrialization program require effective land use and transportation planning to facilitate the urbanization process and optimize the use of resources. The recent rapid industrialization process in the Johor Bahru metropolitan area due to overspill development from Singapore, the Johor (Malaysia) and Batam Island (Indonesia), the Singapore development triangle proposal and policy deregulation of the Johor State government needreexamination of the existing Structure Plan policy (1984) framework for this region. The authors made observations on the current development and land use and transport policy framework of Johor Bahru‐Pasir Gudang Structure Plan (1984), Malaysia with a view towards improving the land use and transportation planning approach.
Connections: Bringing Florida together
Authors: Kane Karen Bryant
Published: January 2010

During the summer of 1994 the Florida Department of Transportation hit the road seeking ideas and opinions from the state's citizens, businesses and visitors for developing a plan for Florida's future transportation system. Making a break from the past, the department decided to forego long‐winded speeches, draft plans and maps too small to read in favor of more innovative approaches to public involvement. This paper details the development and implementation of the 2020 Florida Transportation Plan public outreach program, continued public involvement efforts and the lessons learned.
Transportania as gulliver might have seen it
Authors: Allsop Richard E.
Published: January 2010

It is an honour to be asked to speak at this, the Silver Jubilee of the International Symposia in 1984, in the presence of a number who, unlike myself, were present at the first symposium at the General Motors Research Laboratories in 1959 ‐ Gordon Newell, Martin Beckmann and, foremost of all, Robert Herman, whose work is to be recognized next week by the award of an Honorary Degree at the University of Karlsruhe.

Because it is such an honour to be asked, I had no hesitation in accepting Professor Volmuller's invitation, several months ago ‐ to address you with a causerie on a subject of my choice.
When should carpool lanes be introduced in a multi‐lane highway?
Authors: Yang Hai
Published: January 2010

High‐occupancy‐vehicle (HOV) lanes are often suggested as a cost‐effective alternative to address growing traffic congestion problems by providing priority treatment for buses and carpools. As a consequence of introduction of HOV lanes, some auto drivers would switch to buses and carpools, thereby reducing total vehicle demand, whereas there would be fewer lanes available for the remaining vehicles, thus possibly increasing the time cost of solo drivers. It is therefore an important issue to evaluate the efficiency of HOV lanes based on some system‐wide cost‐effectiveness measures. This short note presents a simple demand‐supply equilibrium model to evaluate the benefit resulting from HOV lanes, and therefore determine whether and how many HOV lanes should be introduced in a multilane highway.