bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal investment in egg production: environmental and population-specific effects on offspring performance in the snapping shrimp Alpheus nuttingi (Schmitt, 1924) (Decapoda, Alpheidae)
Authors: Pavanelli Caio , Mossolin Emerson , Mantelatto Fernando
Published: August 2010

Among marine invertebrates, the overall biomass invested in egg production varies widely within populations, which can result from the interaction of endogenous and exogenous factors. Species that have constant reproduction throughout the year can be good models to study the influence of environmental factors on reproductive processes. We conducted a seasonal comparison of egg production in the intertidal snapping shrimp Alpheus nuttingi, which shows a continuous reproductive pattern, to examine the hypothesis that differences in egg production are driven by environmental conditions and population features. This population showed an uncommon strategy, characterized by females that produce eggs of varying sizes within their clutches, with reduced egg volume when the number of eggs is higher (Spring-Summer). In these seasons, higher temperatures and greater food availability may allow the production of more eggs compared to the Autumn-Winter seasons. Compared to other alpheid shrimps, this population produces small eggs, but in larger numbers. Despite the higher fecundity, the reproductive output is relatively low, this production being supported by the large size of females from the southern Atlantic region. Our findings showed that the egg production of A. nuttingi was greatly influenced by environmental factors. Therefore, this shrimp, and probably other decapods that possess continuous reproduction, adopt different reproductive strategies during the year.
Oocyte and ovary morphological observation of gray wolf (Canis lupus)
Authors: Li Feng-Yin , Tao Yong , Fang Fu-Gui , Li Yun-Sheng , Zhang Yun-Hai , Zhang Zhi-Zhong , Liu Xu-Guang
Published: August 2010

The present study was carried out to describe the reproductive system of a single adult female wolf, including the uterine horns, cervix, ovaries and follicles. The cumulus oocytes complexes (COCs) and oocytes were also examined. The results showed that the size of each ovary was about 9 × 6 mm with an average of weight of 461.3 mg. The uterus was Y-shaped, and the length of each uterine horn was 14 cm. The distance from the cervix to the bifurcation of the uterine horns was also 14 cm. The left ovary had two large follicles on the surface with a diameter more than 4 mm, while the right ovary had no protuberant follicles. The ovaries were covered with a lot of fat, and were well developed. The COCs derived from the antral follicles were dark, and the nuded oocytes had a dark cytoplasm. The diameter of the oocytes removed from the antral follicles was 116.8 μm on average. The ovaries had a smooth surface and all the follicles were under the surface except for two big follicles on the left ovary. Histological examination of the ovaries by haematoxylin and eosin staining demonstrated that the primordial, primary, preantral and antral follicles were scattered in the cortex, the medulla was abundant with blood vessels. This study preliminarily reveals the features of the wolf reproductive system and the structure of its oocytes and ovaries, which might be indicative for further study and the protection of the species.
Annual cycle of reproductive organs in a Tibetan frog, Nanorana parkeri
Authors: Ma Xiaoyan , Lu Xin
Published: August 2010

The annual cycle of reproductive organs in a wild population of a Tibetan frog, Nanorana parkeri, was studied. For females we used the pigmentation and size of the ovarian follicles to designate the reproductive conditions. Males were analyzed according to their spermatogenic stages using histological sections of their testes. The results showed that each sex had a seasonal reproductive cycle. However, females reproduced biennially or more, while males bred annually. We presumed that the sexual differences in reproductive investment contributed to the annual reproductive cycle difference between the sexes of N. parkeri. Moreover, this species did not have the post-breeding resting period, which was confirmed by the fact of reinitiation of spermatogenesis shortly after breeding.
Albinistic common seals (Phoca vitulina) and melanistic grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) rehabilitated in the Netherlands
Authors: Osinga Nynke , Hart Pieter 't , van Voorst Vader Pieter
Published: August 2010

The Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre (SRRC) in Pieterburen, The Netherlands, rehabilitates seals from the waters of the Wadden Sea, North Sea and Southwest Delta area. Incidental observations of albinism and melanism in common and grey seals are known from countries surrounding the North Sea. However, observations on colour aberrations have not been systematically recorded. To obtain the frequency of occurrence of these colour aberrations, we analysed data of all seals admitted to our centre over the past 38 years. In the period 1971-2008, 3000 common seals (Phoca vitulina) were rehabilitated, as well as 1200 grey seals (Halichoerus grypus). A total of five albinistic common seals and four melanistic grey seals were identified. This results in an estimated incidence of albinism in common seals of approximately 1/600, and of melanism in grey seals of approximately 1/300. The seals displayed normal behaviour, although in the albinistic animals, a photophobic reaction was observed in daylight.
UV-B radiation severely affects embryo development in the Mexican axolotl
Authors: Frías-Alvarez Patricia , Zúñiga-Vega J. Jaime , Parra-Olea Gabriela
Published: August 2010

Amphibians are greatly affected by diversity loss and recent declines in amphibian populations are well documented. One of the proposed causes of such declines, UV-B radiation, has been reported to induce lethal and sub-lethal effects on different ontogenetic phases of development. Of these phases, the embryo stage is likely the most vulnerable. We used an experimental approach to test for the effects of UV-B radiation on embryo development of the Mexican axolotl, Ambystoma mexicanum. Recently, its natural populations experienced a 60% decline. We conducted experimental trials over the course of a year in which we exposed A. mexicanum eggs to 3 different treatments of varying UV-B ray intensities. Our results indicate that environmental UV-B radiation in Mexico City adversely affects the embryos of the Mexican axolotl at particular times of the year. The embryos exposed to 100% UV-B radiation had strikingly more deformities (mostly blisters and edemas), shorter periods of embryonic development, smaller hatchling size, and experienced increased mortality in comparison with embryos that were partially or totally protected from UV-B rays. The breeding season of A. mexicanum coincides with the time of the year in which the effects of UV-B radiation are most harmful (February through April). The observed negative effects of UV-B rays could act synergistically with chemical pollutants, exotic species, and pathogens to yield the negative population trends currently observed in this endemic Mexican amphibian.
Changes in nestling diet composition of the red-breasted flycatcher Ficedula parva in relation to chick age and parental sex
Authors: Mitrus Cezary , Mitrus Joanna , Sikora Magdalena
Published: August 2010

The composition of nestling diet in the red-breasted flycatcher Ficedula parva was studied by videotaping 14 broods, in natural stands of the Białowieża Forest, in relation to nestling age and the sex of the parents. On average 51.5% of the prey items were flying insects, 25.9 % spiders and 22.8% caterpillars. Amongst flying insects, Diptera dominated (84.8%), then Lepidoptera (7.6%) and Orthoptera (6.6%). The composition of the diet changed significantly in relation to the age of the nestlings. The proportion of caterpillars decreased with nestling age from 36% to 13%, whilst that of flying insects increased from 42% to 64% and spiders achieved their highest representation in the middle stages of nestling development. Within the group of flying insects, composition of prey types also changed significantly: the proportion of Orthoptera increased from 7% to 11%, and Lepidoptera decreased from 9% to 3%, while the proportion of Diptera was almost unchanged. No differences were found in general in the proportions of prey types provided by males and females, although they differed in respect to nestling age. In the first five days of nestling life, males provided more caterpillars and fewer flying insects than when nestlings were older.
Effects of temperature and food availability on selected body temperature and locomotor performance of Plestiodon (Eumeces) chinensis (Scincidae)
Authors: Shu Lin , Sun Bao-Jun , Du Wei-Guo
Published: August 2010

Remarkable temporal and spatial variations occur on selected body temperature (Tsel) and locomotor performance for Plestiodon (Eumeces) chinensis, commonly known as Chinese skinks. However, the significance of these variations remains elusive. This study focuses on the effects of thermal environment and food availability on P. chinensis's Tsel and locomotor performance. The duration of thermal treatment (4h and 8h) displayed significant effects on Tsel, additionally the effects of thermal treatment were also dependent on food-availability. There was no significant variation in skink's Tsel under diverse thermal treatments when sufficient food was available. However, with insufficient food source, the Tsel decreased with decrease in the duration of thermal treatment. Thermal acclimation also affected locomotor performance of P. chinensis, as the 8h thermal treatment enhanced their locomotor performance. However, food availability alone had no significant impact on the locomotor performance. Therefore, the combination of thermal acclimation and food availability could cause variations in Tsel and locomotor performance of skinks, suggesting that thermal environment and food condition in nature are important factors involved in temporal and spatial variations for Tsel and locomotor performance.
The Geometrization of Motion: Galileo’s Triangle of Speed and its Various Transformations
Authors: Palmerino Carla Rita
Published: August 2010

This article analyzes Galileo’s mathematization of motion, focusing in particular on his use of geometrical diagrams. It argues that Galileo regarded his diagrams of acceleration not just as a complement to his mathematical demonstrations, but as a powerful heuristic tool. Galileo probably abandoned the wrong assumption of the proportionality between the degree of velocity and the space traversed in accelerated motion when he realized that it was impossible, on the basis of that hypothesis, to build a diagram of the law of fall. The article also shows how Galileo’s discussion of the paradoxes of infinity in the First Day of the Two New Sciences is meant to provide a visual solution to problems linked to the theory of acceleration presented in Day Three of the work. Finally, it explores the reasons why Cavalieri and Gassendi, although endorsing Galileo’s law of free fall, replaced Galileo’s diagrams of acceleration with alternative ones.
Preference and subjective evaluation of washed fabric hand using conjoint analysis
Authors: Ryu Hyo-Seon , Eui Kyung Roh
Published: August 2010

The hand of washed fabrics can be changed by varying the laundry detergent ingredients and the properties of washing liquid. The ingredients brought by changes to the hand of fabrics can be considered by subjective assessment. Three types of cotton fabrics were washed in a drum-type washer with 16 different laundry detergents, which are based on profiles derived from a fractional factorial design. A questionnaire method was used to evaluate fabrics washed by 16 different detergent combinations. Zeolite was the most important ingredient for the preference of the washed fabrics in a dry state, followed by hardness, pH, LA-7, LAS, and soap. Each ingredient affected the subjective hands in a different way. Surfactants such as LA-7 and LAS, zeolite and soap affected the subjective hand more, while pH and hardness affected the subjective hand less. An increase in the surface-friction related slippery feeling and the fullness/softness resulted in an increase in the preference for the hand of the washed fabric.
Scenario Planning for Effective Regional Governance: Promises and Limitations
Authors: Chakraborty Arnab
Published: August 2010

Regional governance has improved efficiencies in various common goods such as transportation. Attempts to take advantage of such regional economies through regulation of land use run into the problems of existing local government controls and lack of existing alternative authority. One way to help promote regional solutions is to foster coordination among land use entities in local government. Scenario planning provides a participatory process, allows for thinking systematically about the future, and has been tested for its potential in furthering regional governance. An ongoing effort called the Maryland Scenarios Project is leveraged. The process of scenario building is assessed, and four scenarios are compared. The outcomes show different local and regional impacts under different possible futures. The analysis helps identify strategies for local governments including reacting to or collaborating with neighboring jurisdictions. The findings suggest that scenario planning encourages rational decision making on a regional level and can be an important policy instrument for local and state governments.
Is it possible to determine use of hospice palliative care services by matching hospice and cancer registry data?
Authors: Coupland VH , Lee W. , Madden P. , Sykes N. , Heal R. , Møller H. , Davies EA
Published: August 2010

Population-based studies investigating access to palliative care often use death in a hospice as a proxy for service use. We linked data from a large South London hospice to Thames Cancer Registry (TCR) data to determine whether patients who received hospice services differed from those who did not. We matched hospice data for 2474 cancer patients dying between 2000 and 2006, while resident within a restricted catchment area, to TCR data for residents in this area. During matching 14.2% ( n = 352) of hospice patients were excluded due to differing key dates or addresses. In addition, 5.6% ( n= 175) of residents initially defined as not receiving hospice services were recorded as dying in a hospice in the TCR dataset. The problems of overlapping catchment areas and of defining patients receiving services meant we could not adequately determine use of hospice services. This method might be applied more successfully to non-urban hospices, primary care trusts or larger regions.
Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Kamath Ganesh V. , Redfern John C. , Greis Patrick E. , Burks Robert T.
Published: August 2010

Revision reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) introduces several diagnostic and technical challenges in comparison with primary ACL reconstruction. With the increasing numbers of original reconstructions combined with the continued expectation of high-level athletic participation, revision ACL reconstruction is likely to become more frequent. The purpose of this article was to summarize the causes of failure and the evaluation of the patient with recurrent instability. A review of the literature regarding results after revision ACL reconstruction was performed to assist in the decision-making process and patient counseling. Good results can be obtained in terms of functional stability after revision reconstruction, but chondral and meniscal injury as well as unrecognized associated pathologic instability may play a role in diminished outcomes. In addition, a wide variety of surgical techniques are reviewed to address problems associated with tunnel malposition, widening, and pre-existing hardware.
Prevalence Comparison of Accompanying Lesions between Primary and Recurrent Anterior Dislocation in the Shoulder
Authors: Kim Doo-Sup , Yoon Yeo-Seung , Yi Chang Ho
Published: August 2010

Background

Many authors have reported the presence of intra-articular lesions after primary dislocation of the shoulder joint. However, few studies have focused on their prevalence or the differences in accompanying lesions between primary and recurrent dislocations of the shoulder joint.

Purpose

This study was undertaken to investigate and analyze accompanying lesions, including types of anteroinferior labrum injuries, using diagnostic arthroscopy and magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) in 144 patients with traumatic anterior dislocation of the shoulder joint.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

There were 33 patients with 33 dislocations in the primary dislocation group and 111 patients with 111 dislocations in the recurrent dislocation group. Preoperative magnetic resonance arthrography and diagnostic arthroscopy were performed on all patients.

Results

In the primary dislocation group, 8 Bankart lesions, 9 free anterior labrum periosteal sleeve avulsion (ALPSA) lesions, 4 bony Bankart lesions, and 1 adhesive ALPSA lesion were observed. In the recurrent dislocation group, 68 Bankart lesions, 11 free ALPSA lesions, 13 bony Bankart lesions, 16 adhesive ALPSA lesions, and 1 glenoid articular rim disruption lesion were found. There were 22 (66.6%) and 109 (98.1%) patients with lesions in the anteroinferior labrum in the primary and recurrent groups, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the 2 groups (P = .002). Also, there was a significant difference between the 2 groups in the prevalence of the Hill-Sachs lesion and inverted pear-shaped glenoid lesion (P = .008/P = .047). Inverted pear-shaped glenoids were observed in 15 patients in the recurrent group. In 139 of 144 patients, surgical findings of accompanying lesions coincided with magnetic resonance arthrography findings (96.5%).

Conclusion

Various forms of anteroinferior labral lesions were seen in patients with traumatic anterior dislocation of shoulder. The recurrent dislocation group showed a significantly higher prevalence of anteroinferior labral lesions and bony lesions in comparison with the primary group. In our study, magnetic resonance arthrography was an accurate method to assess accompanying lesions in first-time and recurrent anterior dislocation of the shoulder, suggesting that this may be a useful tool for determining a treatment method.
Feeling the way: Notes toward a haptic phenomenology of distance running and scuba diving
Authors: Allen-Collinson Jacquelyn , Hockey John
Published: August 2010

Along with a resurgence of interest in ‘the body’ within the social sciences generally over the last two decades, in recent years a corpus of sociological research specifically on sporting embodiment has started to develop. Calls have been made to analyse more fully and deeply the sensory dimension of the lived sporting body, including via phenomenological perspectives. This article contributes to this developing literature by bringing to bear insights derived from existential phenomenology on two distinct sporting milieux: middle/long-distance running and scuba diving. As the social sciences in general have been accused of a high degree of ocularcentrism, here we focus upon touch, and specifically upon heat and pressure as two key structures of haptic lived experience.
Applying Cellular Automata and DEVS Methodologies to Digital Games: A Survey
Authors: Wainer Gabriel , Qi Liu  , Dalle Olivier , Zeigler Bernard P.
Published: August 2010

Cellular automata were designed by John von Neumann in the 1940s, as a mathematical abstraction for modeling self-replicating algorithms. Since then, cellular automata have been widely studied theoretically and evolved into multiple variants. In the 1970s, Bernard P. Zeigler proposed a formalism rooted on systems theory principles, named DEVS (discrete-event systems specifications), which paved the way for component-based modeling and simulation and related methodologies. The purpose of this article is to survey how cellular automata and its variant, called cell-DEVS, may be used to implement computer simulations that can be used as digital serious games. The authors illustrate that implementation through some of the practical applications of such cellular automata. They show various serious game applications using real case studies: first, a simple bouncing ball and pinball game, a particle collision model, another on gossip propagation, and an application on human behavior at a metro station.Then, they show an application to social simulation using a voters game, a theoretical application (a model called Daisy World, which is derived from Gaia theory), and applications to physical phenomena such as a sandpile formation model or, finally, a three-dimensional model of a “virtual clay” that changes its shape when it is subject to pressure effects.
In Vitro Comparisons of Two Antimicrobial Intravenous Connectors
Authors: Chernecky Cynthia , Waller Jennifer
Published: August 2010

Fifty percent of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CR-BSI) caused by organism migration through the fluid pathway (intraluminal) via a connector can be colonized within 24 hr. With a mean hospital stay of 4.8 days, intraluminal contamination is a primary source of CR-BSI. Purpose of this research was to determine which antimicrobial needleless connector produced the least bacterial colony-forming units (CFUs) in vitro and to compare these CFUs to the leading nonantimicrobial connector shown in previous research to have the lowest CFUs. Independent laboratory tested 2 antimicrobial (Baxter V-Link™, RyMed-7001 Nano®) and 1 nonantimicrobial (RyMed-5001) connector, 20 connectors each, 3 controls, each of 4 days, 4 organisms, under the same laboratory conditions. Baxter V-Link™ produced 2.0 to 8.8 times more bacteria than the RYM-5001 ® and RYM-7001® connectors, regardless of bacteria type. The antimicrobial connector with the most and consistent bacteria (13, 675 CFUs) over 4 days was the V-Link™ and the connector with no consistent bacteria was the RyMed-7001®. Nurses and researchers must include technological design, connector types, and methods of coating/ impregnating connectors as factors in evaluation.
Similarities and Differences in Caring Burden of Home Dwellers With Partners Suffering From Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or Dementia
Authors: Nordtug Bente , Holen Are
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to explore caring burden of cohabitants ( N = 206) having partners with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or dementia in relation to aspects of social support. Caring burden was measured by the Relative Stress Scale and was found to be lower and to change less with severity in the COPD group. In multiple regression analyses, characteristics of the ill partners such as aggressive behaviors, degree of self-reliance, hours they could adequately be alone, in addition to public services, social support or withdrawal from family and friends, and gender of the caregiver were overriding the type of illness. Different factors added to the caring burden of females and males. In the total sample, those factors explained 62.9% of the caring burden, while for females 58% was explained, and 77% for males.
Psychological Adjustment among Women Living with Genital Herpes
Authors: Barnack-Tavlaris Jessica L. , Reddy Diane M. , Ports Katie
Published: August 2010

This study investigated the psychosocial factors that influence psychological adjustment among women with genital herpes, while taking into account the physical factors. Women with herpes ( N = 105, age 18—30) completed an on-line survey about factors related to their diagnosis and herpes-related quality of life. Perceived stigma, acceptance coping, denial coping, support from the Internet, and support from religious/spiritual figures accounted for 65.9 percent of the variance in quality of life scores. The findings reveal the importance of specific coping strategies and sources of support on psychological adjustment to herpes. Furthermore, a significant interaction between stigma and acceptance coping suggests a complex relationship between these two psychosocial factors that warrants future research.
Making Sense of the Cleft
Authors: Havstam Christina , Laakso Katja , Ringsberg Karin C.
Published: August 2010

Individuals born with a cleft lip and palate risk developing a deviant appearance and speech during childhood and sometimes also as adults. In this study, 13 young adults born with a cleft (lip and) palate, who had had deviant speech in adolescence, participated in semi-structured interviews. The core category Making sense of the cleft, comprising the two categories Shaping one’s attitude to the cleft and Dealing with being different with seven subcategories, describes the processes of developing self-image in relation to the cleft. The findings are believed to be relevant for individuals born with a cleft, their parents and caregivers.
Leisure and Depression in Midlife: A Taiwanese National Survey of Middle-aged Adults
Authors: Luo Lu
Published: August 2010

We aimed to explore middle-aged people’s leisure experiences and their associations with depression in a national representative sample of Taiwanese people ( N = 1143, aged 45—65). We found that: (1) being female and low family income were demographic risk factors of depressive symptoms; (2) poor physical health and disability were positively related to depressive symptoms; (3) social support was negatively related to depressive symptoms; and (4) having controlled for effects of demographics, physical health and social support, positive leisure experiences were negatively related to depressive symptoms. The benefits of leisure pursuits for successful midlife transition and prospective ageing were discussed.
The Southampton Initiative for Health
Authors: Barker Mary , Baird Janis , Lawrence Wendy , Jarman Megan , Black Christina , Barnard Katharine , Cradock Sue , Davies Jenny , Margetts Barrie , Inskip Hazel , Cooper Cyrus
Published: August 2010

The Southampton Initiative for Health is a training intervention with Sure Start Children’s Centre staff designed to improve the diets and physical activity levels of women of childbearing age. Training aims to help staff to support women in making changes to their lifestyles by improving three skills: reflection on current practice; asking ‘open discovery’ questions; and goal-setting. The impact of the training on staff practice is being assessed. A before and after non-randomized controlled trial is being used to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention in improving women’s diets and increasing their physical activity levels.
Reporting Guidelines for Music-based Interventions
Authors: Robb Sheri L. , Carpenter Janet S. , Burns Debra S.
Published: August 2010

Music-based interventions are used to address a variety of problems experienced by individuals across the developmental lifespan (infants to elderly adults). In order to improve the transparency and specificity of reporting music-based interventions, a set of specific reporting guidelines is recommended. Recommendations pertain to seven different components of music-based interventions, including theory, content, delivery schedule, interventionist, treatment fidelity, setting, and unit of delivery. Recommendations are intended to support Consolidated Standards for Reporting Trials (CONSORT) and Transparent Reporting of Evaluations with Non-randomized Designs (TREND) statements for transparent reporting of interventions while taking into account the variety, complexity, and uniqueness of music-based interventions.
Men and Depression: Current Perspectives for Health Care Professionals
Authors: Fields Andrew J. , Cochran Sam V.
Published: August 2010

Epidemiological and health care utilization rates document potential underidentification and under-treatment of men who may suffer from major depression. Limitations in diagnostic criteria may prevent health care professionals from clearly recognizing depression in the men they treat. Societal norms related to masculine gender role socialization may create barriers to help seeking for men who could benefit from treatment for depression. This review integrates up-to-date research with clinical reports and offers recommendations for health care professionals. The primary goals of the recommendations are to increase sensitivity to male patients who may suffer from depression and to equip professionals with scientifically informed strategies for recognizing and responding to men who are identified with depression.
WNT pathways and upper limb anomalies
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: August 2010

The various Wnt pathways that are related to upper limb anomalies are reviewed. Abnormalities in the Wnt7a pathway (located in the dorsal ectoderm) produce several clinically relevant conditions such as the palmar duplication syndrome, nail patella syndrome, ulnar ray deficiency, limb hypoplasia, polysyndactyly and the palmar nail syndrome. Abnormalities of the Wnt3/3a pathway (located in the apical ectodermal ridge) include tetra-amelia and loss of the distal phalanges/nails. Abnormalities of the Wnt5/5a pathway (located in the apical ectodermal ridge as well as in the mesoderm) will affect chondrogenesis of the developing limb and experimental Wnt5a−/− limbs have terminal adactyly. Chondrogenesis and limb muscle differentiation are both affected by several Wnt pathways and these will be reviewed in details. Abnormalities in LRP 5/6 (a co-receptor for Wnts) lead to congenital bone disease and Wnt4 is specifically involved in joint development. Finally, the relationship between the Wnt pathway and SALL4 (mutations of which cause Okihiro/Duane-radial ray deficiency in humans) are discussed.
DASH and sollerman test scores after hand injury from powered wood splitters
Authors: Lindqvist A. , Hjalmarsson M. , Nilsson O.
Published: August 2010

The purpose of the study was to describe the outcome after hand injury from powered wood splitters, and to investigate the relation between injury severity and outcome. Injury severity was rated according to the Hand Injury Severity Scoring System (HISS system) and the Injury Severity Score method. The patients were evaluated with the Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand outcome questionnaire (DASH), and 26 of the most severely injured patients were evaluated with the Sollerman test. The mean DASH score was moderately elevated at 15, indicating that many of these patients have sequelae. A statistically significant correlation between HISS and DASH scores was found, implying that initial injury severity is of importance for outcome. The mean Sollerman score in the injured hand was 66, which amounts to a significantly impaired hand function.
Controlling legionella risk in a newly commissioned hospital building
Authors: Srivastava Sumati , Colville Alaric , Odgers Mike , Laskey Lee , Mann Trevor
Published: August 2010

We describe the risk assessment and interventions used for Legionella spp. in potable water in a new building commissioned in 2007. Water systems were designed to be compliant with Health Technical Memoranda 04-01 and the approved Code of Practice and Guidance for the control of legionella bacteria in water systems, known as L8. Monitoring of cold-water outlets showed temperature greater than 20°C. Water samples were cultured for legionella. Control measures used increased flushing and a copper—silver ionization system. Nocturnal heat gain was noticed in the cold-water system. Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 was cultured from one representative outlet. The copper— silver ionization system reduced legionella colony counts. Water consumption was 71% of the original design estimate. No clinical cases due to Legionella spp. were detected. Reduced water consumption may lead to heat gain even in well-insulated systems, thus breaching control guidance. Additional control methods will then be required.
Negative Campaigning across Different Communication Channels: Different Ball Games?
Authors: Walter Annemarie S. , Vliegenthart Rens
Published: August 2010

In this article, the authors address the question of to what extent negative political campaigning differs when looking at different communication channels. They compare paid publicity, election debates, and newspaper coverage for the 2006 Dutch parliamentary elections and conduct an elaborate content analysis. Results show that the level of negative campaigning does not differ greatly across these channels, although election debates clearly show the highest amount of this type of campaigning. Notably, negative campaigning takes a different form in newspaper coverage, where appeals are more personal, focusing on character traits as opposed to being directed to political parties and dealing with political issues. The authors explain those results by pointing to the different levels of control politicians exert over communication channels. They also make a plea to other researchers investigating negative campaigning, asking them to fully consider that their results might be seriously biased by the communication channel they investigate.
microRNA miR-144 modulates oxidative stress tolerance and associates with anemia severity in sickle cell disease
Authors: Sangokoya Carolyn , Telen Marilyn J. , Chi Jen-Tsan
Published: August 2010

Although individuals with homozygous sickle cell disease (HbSS) share the same genetic mutation, the severity and manifestations of this disease are extremely heterogeneous. We have previously shown that the microRNA expression in normal and HbSS erythrocytes exhibit dramatic differences. In this study, we identify a subset of HbSS patients with higher erythrocytic miR-144 expression and more severe anemia. HbSS erythrocytes are known to have reduced tolerance for oxidative stress, yet the basis for this phenotype remains unknown. This study reveals that miR-144 directly regulates nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2, a central regulator of cellular response to oxidative stress, and modulates the oxidative stress response in K562 cell line and primary erythroid progenitor cells. We further demonstrate that increased miR-144 is associated with reduced NRF2 levels in HbSS reticulocytes and with decreased glutathione regeneration and attenuated antioxidant capacity in HbSS erythrocytes, thereby providing a possible mechanism for the reduced oxidative stress tolerance and increased anemia severity seen in HbSS patients. Taken together, our findings suggest that erythroid microRNAs can serve as genetic modifiers of HbS-related anemia and can provide novel insights into the clinical heterogeneity and pathobiology of sickle cell disease.
Efficient osteoclast differentiation requires local complement activation
Authors: Tu Zhidan , Bu Hong , Dennis James E. , Lin Feng
Published: August 2010

Previous studies using blocking antibodies suggested that bone marrow (BM)–derived C3 is required for efficient osteoclast (OC) differentiation, and that C3 receptors are involved in this process. However, the detailed underlying mechanism and the possible involvement of other complement receptors remain unclear. In this report, we found that C3−/− BM cells exhibited lower RANKL/OPG expression ratios, produced smaller amounts of macrophage colony-stimulating factor and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and generated significantly fewer OCs than wild-type (WT) BM cells. During differentiation, in addition to C3, WT BM cells locally produced all other complement components required to activate C3 and to generate C3a/C5a through the alter-native pathway, which is required for efficient OC differentiation. Abrogating C3aR/C5aR activity either genetically or pharmaceutically suppressed OC generation, while stimulating WT or C3−/− BM cells with exogenous C3a and/or C5a augmented OC differentiation. Furthermore, supplementation with IL-6 rescued OC generation from C3−/− BM cells, and neutralizing antibodies to IL-6 abolished the stimulatory effects of C3a/C5a on OC differentiation. These data indicate that during OC differentiation, BM cells locally produce components, which are activated through the alternative pathway to regulate OC differentiation. In addition to C3 receptors, C3aR/C5aR also regulate OC differentiation, at least in part, by modulating local IL-6 production.
Central odontogenic fibroma: a case report with long-term follow-up
Authors: Brazão-Silva Marco T , Fernandes Alexandre V , Durighetto-Júnior Antônio F , Cardoso Sérgio V , Loyola Adriano M
Published: August 2010

An osteolytic tumour of the mandible with prominent expansive growth on the alveolar ridge and displacement of the involved teeth is described in a 28-year-old man. The lesion was diagnosed as a central odontogenic fibroma, an uncommon benign neoplasm derived from dental apparatus, and was removed by curettage. The patient remains asymptomatic after thirteen years of follow-up, which supports the claimed indolent behavior of this poorly documented disease and the adequacy of a conservative surgical treatment.
Effect of Hydrogen-Enriched Gas as a Reductant on the Performance of a Lean NOx Trap Catalyst for a Light-Duty Diesel Engine
Authors: Park C-W , Kim C-G , Choi Y , Kang K-Y , Moriyoshi Y
Published: August 2010

Direct-injection diesel engines have become prime candidates for future transportation needs owing to their high thermal efficiency. However, the increase in nitrogen oxides (NO x) within local high-temperature regions and the increase in particulate matter within the diffusion flame region during diesel combustion are problematic and must be resolved. The utilization of NO x-absorbing catalysts, based on the concept of NO x storage and release, is one of the most promising techniques able to reduce NO x emissions within net oxidizing gas conditions. This type of NO x removal system, called the lean NO x trap (LNT) catalyst, absorbs NO x under lean exhaust gas conditions and releases NO x under rich conditions. This technology provides the advantage of high NO x conversion efficiency; however, the correct amount of reducing agent must be supplied within the catalytic converter under appropriate conditions in order to guarantee a high NO x reduction efficiency.

In this research, the performance characteristics of an LNT, using a hydrogen-enriched gas as a reductant, were examined via various injection strategies and rich exhaust gas conditions. Although the hydrogen concentration of hydrogen-enriched gas also affects the LNT performance, the composition of hydrogen-enriched gas was fixed as a similar composition to that for the ideal re-forming of diesel fuel. The NO x reduction efficiency is closely connected to the injection timing and duration of reductant flow. When the injection was introduced 1.5 s after throttling, the LNT NO x conversion was maximized. However, the LNT NO x conversion decreased when the injection timing was earlier or later than 1.5 s. Because the actual rich duration of the exhaust gas is limited at a specific point during the rich operation for 3 s, the LNT NO x conversion was maximized when the hydrogen-enriched gas was injected at the minimum air-to-fuel ratio observed at the LNT inlet. By optimizing the control of this flow, the system encounters only a 1.9 per cent fuel penalty while maintaining a 90 per cent NO x reduction efficiency.
Innovative concept design of an independent front suspension and steering system
Authors: Zhao J-S , Jin H-Z , Zhao S , Chu F , Feng Z-J
Published: August 2010

This paper investigates the innovative design of an independent suspension that has invariable orientation parameters when the wheel is jumping up and down and a steering system that satisfies the Ackermann law in turning. With group theory, it first discusses the synthesis of kinematic chains of a rigid body guidance mechanism which can realize straight-line translation. Then, it synthesizes a symmetrical redundant suspension mechanism with constant orientation parameters. This kind of independent suspension should not only eliminate the shambling shocks induced by the jumping of wheels but also decrease the wear of tyres. A new steering mechanism that satisfies the Ackermann law during turning is also proposed to satisfy the straight-line motion of the suspension. Therefore, these kinds of independent suspension can be used as both front and rear suspensions. The steering system accompanying the rectilinear moving suspensions should greatly improve the ride and handling properties of advanced automobiles.
Optimization of bonnet thickness with respect to pedestrian safety
Authors: Teng T-L , Ngo V-L
Published: August 2010

Head and face injuries in car–pedestrian accidents account for 60 per cent of all pedestrian fatal injuries, whereas 17.3 per cent of head injuries were due to the bonnet. The above values demonstrate the necessity to consider more carefully the role of the bonnet in pedestrian head safety. Redesigning the bonnet structure to improve pedestrian protection has recently received considerable attention by automobile manufacturers and industry institutes. However, there is a lack of research that considers methods of choosing the most effective thicknesses of bonnet skin and bonnet reinforcement with respect to pedestrian safety. This study analyses the effects of the bonnet skin and bonnet reinforcement thicknesses on pedestrian head injury by performing simulations of headform-impactor-to-bonnet tests according to the European Enhanced Vehicle-safety Committee Working Group 17 regulations for different thicknesses. An optimization method of selecting the most effective thicknesses of bonnet skin and bonnet reinforcement will be introduced. Many positions on the bonnet surface are considered to enhance pedestrian friendliness by using this method. Moreover, a bonnet with the optimal thicknesses is not only pedestrian friendly but also as stiff as possible. Based on the proposed method, this study presents steps for optimizing the bonnet skin and bonnet reinforcement thicknesses using a particular automobile model.
Computational fluid dynamics integrated development of gerotor pump inlet components for engine lubrication
Authors: Suresh Kumar M , Manonmani K
Published: August 2010

Generated rotor (gerotor) pumps are widely used in the automotive industry for engine oil lubrication. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) can be utilized as a useful design tool not only to optimize the flow performance of gerotor pumps but also to develop and finalize specifications for the gerotor pump inlet components. In this paper, a CFD integrated development process for the gerotor pump inlet components such as the suction pipe, strainer, and ports has been executed using a three-dimensional transient mathematical model. The effects of the rotor speed, strainer porosity, and number of ports on the pump performance have been investigated. The results showed that the inlet pipe size, the free area ratio of the strainer, and the sizing of the ports have vital roles in the suction capacity, flow velocity, and volumetric efficiency of the gerotor pump. The selected pump components based on CFD simulation were validated using physical test data, and good agreement was found.
Shock-Wave/Boundary-Layer Interaction in a Transonic Turbine Cascade
Authors: Hou W T , Qiao W Y , Luo H L
Published: August 2010

Shock-wave/boundary-layer interaction (SWBLI) in a transonic turbine cascade was researched numerically using large eddy simulation (LES) and the results were compared with experimental data to verify the method. The investigation indicated that, the LES reproduced the SWBLI process accurately. The flow details in the SWBLI region appeared highly three-dimensional characteristic. The contours of span-wise vorticity on suction surface in the separation bubble were presented to indicate the transient flow development. The surface limiting streamlines turned out to be two counter-rotating vortices. The SWBLI caused a pressure fluctuation on the suction side downstream of this region. The maximum value was about 2 per cent of the local mean pressure.
Use of Ground-Based Signals of Opportunity for Smart Projectile Navigation
Authors: Wright J , Costello M
Published: August 2010

Global positioning system (GPS) is a widely accepted means of navigation, whether it is for civilian or military means. With the implementation of GPS on smart projectiles, these weapons have been able to achieve remarkable accuracy. Even though the improvements in accuracy are impressive, GPS signals are susceptible to jamming and spoofing by a sufficiently motivated enemy. The work reported here examines the viability of constructing a navigation solution using ground-based signals of opportunity that provide range and range rate information. Using a generalized sensor model encompassing the key error terms, a variety of physical devices are included in the analysis. For a typical indirect fire trajectory, navigation solutions are computed as a function of the number and density of signal sources, terrain type, and sensor errors. Results indicate that navigation solutions can be computed with the same accuracy as current GPS systems with a moderate number of signal sources. Generally, more accurate solutions are obtained when the projectile is directly over the signal sources and there is a variation of signal source location in all three axes.
Near-Earth Object Interception Using Nuclear Thermal Rocket Propulsion
Authors: Zhang X-L , Ball E , Granier C , Kochmanski L , Howe S D
Published: August 2010

Planetary defense has drawn wide study: despite the low probability of a large-scale impact, its consequences would be disastrous. The study presented here evaluates available protection strategies to identify bottlenecks limiting the scale of near-Earth object that could be deflected, using cutting-edge and near-future technologies. It discusses the use of a nuclear thermal rocket (NTR) as a propulsion device for delivery of thermonuclear payloads to deflect or destroy a long-period comet on a collision course with Earth. A ‘worst plausible scenario’ for the available warning time (10 months) and comet approach trajectory are determined, and empirical data are used to make an estimate of the payload necessary to deflect such a comet. Optimizing the tradeoff between early interception and large deflection payload establishes the ideal trajectory for an interception mission to follow. The study also examines the potential for multiple rocket launch dates. Comparison of propulsion technologies for this mission shows that NTR outperforms other options substantially. The discussion concludes with an estimate of the comet size (5km) that could be deflected using NTR propulsion, given current launch capabilities.