bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic Performance Analysis of A Smart Base-isolation System Considering Dynamics of MR Elastomers
Authors: Jung Hyung-Jo , Eem Seung-Hyun , Jang Dong-Doo , Koo Jeong-Hoi
Published: July 2011

This article investigates a smart base-isolation system using magnetorheological (MR) elastomers, which are a new class of smart materials whose elastic modulus or stiffness can be adjusted depending on the magnitude of the applied magnetic field. The primary goals of this study are to develop a smart base-isolation model that represents the field-dependent dynamic behaviors of MR elastomers, to design and construct a scaled smart isolation system and a scaled building structure for a proof of concept study and to investigate the dynamic performance of the smart base-isolation in mitigating excessive vibrations of the scaled building structure under earthquake loadings. To this end, a dynamic model of an MR elastomer was first obtained based on characteristic test results of MR elastomers in shear mode. The dynamic model was then incorporated in a shear building model. Its effectiveness was validated by comparing the test results of a small-scale, single-story building structure coupled with the MR elastomer under harmonic excitations. After validating the MR elastomer-based base-isolation system, a further numerical study was performed to evaluate its effectiveness under seismic excitations. The results show that the proposed MR elastomer base-isolation system with the fuzzy logic control algorithm outperforms the conventional passive-type base isolation system in reducing the responses of the building structure for the seismic excitations considered in this study. The results further suggest that the feasibility of using MR elastomers as variable stiffness elements for enhancing the performance of conventional base-isolation systems.
Oral Ketamine in the Palliative Care Setting
Authors: Soto Eliezer , Stewart Douglas R. , Mannes Andrew J. , Ruppert Sarah L. , Baker Karen , Zlott Daniel , Handel Daniel , Berger Ann M.
Published: July 2011

Ketamine, an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, has been shown to be effective not only for its anesthetic properties but also for the analgesic and opiate-sparing effects. However, data on efficacy and safety of oral ketamine for the treatment of neuropathic or cancer pain syndromes is limited with most of the evidence based on small clinical trials and anecdotal experiences. In this review, we will analyze the clinical data on oral ketamine in the palliative care setting. After an extensive search using five major databases, a total of 19 relevant articles were included. No official clinical guidelines for the use of oral ketamine in this patient population were found. Studies on oral ketamine for cancer and neuropathic pain have shown mixed results which could be partially due to significant differences in hepatic metabolism. In addition, we will include a case report of a 38-year-old female with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) with history of chronic, severe pain in her fingertips secondary to multiple glomus tumors which evolved into CRPS resistant to multiple therapies but responsive to oral ketamine. Based on our experience with oral ketamine, this drug should be administered after an intravenous trial to monitor response and side effects in patients with an adequate functional status. However, patients in the palliative care and hospice setting, especially the one at the end of their lives, may also benefit from oral ketamine even if an intravenous trial is not feasible.
A Study on Caregiver Burden
Authors: Bialon Laura Nelson , Coke Sallie
Published: July 2011

Purpose: The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore factors impacting caregiver burden and to explore possible solutions for family caregivers of terminally ill patients. Results: The majority of caregivers reported experiencing role conflict and inadequate stress management. Caregivers who worked outside the home, those who cared for two parents concurrently, those with the least amount of outside assistance, and caregivers who spent a longer period of time caregiving reported the highest levels of health problems and overall burden. Caregivers stated a need for more support from Hospice agencies, more education on caregiver training, and more public education about Hospice services. Faith played a positive role in alleviating caregiver burden. Conclusion: Early identification, intervention, education and coordination of services may help to alleviate caregiver burden, which will improve quality of life for both patient and caregiver.
A Cross-National Comparison of Gangs in the United States and Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Katz Charles M. , Maguire Edward R. , Choate David
Published: July 2011

This study compares the scope and nature of the gang problem in two communities: one in the United States and one in Trinidad and Tobago, a small-island developing state in the eastern Caribbean that has experienced a serious outbreak of violence over the past decade. Data drawn from surveys of adult arrestees reveal that among respondents, 3.2% of those in the U.S. sample and 5.1% of those in the Trinidad sample reported being a member of a gang. While there were a number of similarities between the two samples, significant differences were found between gang members in both countries. Most notably, gang members in Trinidad reported substantially more violence than gang members in the United States.
Shaky Foundations and Sustainable Exploiters
Authors: Oleson Kirsten L. L.
Published: July 2011

Macroeconomic sustainability indicators are often applied at the national level. This national-level focus is problematic given the importance of trade in the global economy. This article uses one measure of economic weak sustainability, Genuine Savings, to highlight three issues: (a) the national-level measure is empirically unsound because it does not provide a reliable indicator of weak sustainability for any trade-dependent nation; (b) it is normatively suspect because a nation can be labeled weakly sustainable even when its sustainability derives from the unsustainability of its trade partners; and (c) purported “sustainable” signals can encourage exploitative national policies. This article illustrates these conceptual problems, provides empirical case studies to establish their real-world relevance and importance, and discusses the implications for the indicator’s application.
Prevalence of Maltreatment Among Youths in Public Sectors of Care
Authors: Miller Elizabeth A. , Green Amy E. , Fettes Danielle L. , Aarons Gregory A.
Published: July 2011

Few studies have investigated the prevalence of maltreatment among youths in public sectors of care despite the critical public health concern and the burden of suffering on such youths. The current study examined the prevalence of multiple types of maltreatment across five public sectors of care. Youths aged 11–18 ( n = 1,135) enrolled in one of five public sectors of care reported on their maltreatment history using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. Across all sectors, 78% of youth reported experiencing at least moderate levels of maltreatment with the majority (58%) reporting multiple types of maltreatment. The prevalence of maltreatment was highest for youths involved in the alcohol/drug (86%) and child welfare (85%) sectors, and lowest in the serious emotional disturbance sector (72%). Logistic regressions were conducted to examine differences in the likelihood of multiple types of maltreatment by sector affiliation, controlling for the effects of gender, race/ethnicity, and age. The results indicate that rates of maltreatment across sectors do not differ greatly from those in child welfare. The high incidence of maltreatment across all sectors, not solely child welfare, indicates that all youth in public sectors of care should be screened for a history of maltreatment when they enter into care.
Gender practices in the construction of academic excellence: Sheep with five legs
Authors: van den Brink Marieke , Benschop Yvonne
Published: July 2011

Academic excellence is allegedly a universal and gender neutral standard of merit. This article examines exactly what is constructed as academic excellence at the micro-level, how evaluators operationalize this construct in the criteria they apply in academic evaluation, and how gender inequalities are imbued in the construction and evaluation of excellence. We challenge the view that the academic world is governed by the normative principle of meritocracy in its allocation of rewards and resources. Based on an empirical study of professorial appointments in the Netherlands, we argue that academic excellence is an evasive social construct that is inherently gendered. We show how gender is practiced in the evaluation of professorial candidates, resulting in disadvantages for women and privileges for men that accumulate to produce substantial inequalities in the construction of excellence.
Grey matter damage and overall cognitive impairment in primary progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tur C , Penny S , Khaleeli Z , Altmann DR , Cipolotti L , Ron M , Thompson AJ , Ciccarelli O
Published: July 2011

Objectives: To identify associations between cognitive impairment and imaging measures in a cross-sectional study of patients with primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS).

Methods: Neuropsychological tests were administered to 27 patients with PPMS and 31 controls. Patients underwent brain conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, volumetric scans and magnetization transfer (MT) imaging; MT ratio (MTR) parameters, grey matter (GM) and normal-appearing white matter (NAWM) volumes, and WM T2 lesion load (T2LL) were obtained. In patients, multiple linear regression models identified the imaging measure associated with the abnormal cognitive tests independently from the other imaging variables. Partial correlation coefficients (PCC) were reported.

Results: Patients performed worse on tests of attention/speed of visual information processing, delayed verbal memory, and executive function, and had a worse overall cognitive performance index, when compared with controls. In patients, a lower GM peak location MTR was associated with worse overall cognitive performance ( p < 0.001, PCC = 0.77). GM mean and peak height MTR showed the strongest association with the estimated verbal intelligence quotient (IQ) decline ( p < 0.001, PCC = -0.62), and executive function ( p < 0.001, PCC = 0.79). NAWM volume was associated with attention/speed of visual information processing ( p < 0.001, PCC = 0.74), while T2LL was associated with delayed verbal memory ( p = 0.007, PCC = -0.55).

Conclusions: The finding of strong associations between GM MTR, NAWM volume and T2LL and specific cognitive impairments suggests that models that predict cognitive impairment in PPMS should include comprehensive MRI assessments of both GM and WM. However, GM MTR appears to be the main correlate of overall cognitive dysfunction, underlining the role of abnormal GM integrity in determining cognitive impairment in PPMS.
American ginseng does not improve fatigue in multiple sclerosis: a single center randomized double-blind placebo-controlled crossover pilot study
Authors: Kim E , Cameron M , Lovera J , Schaben L , Bourdette D , Whitham R
Published: July 2011

This study examined the safety and efficacy of an escalating dose (100 mg, 200 mg, 400 mg/day) of American ginseng over 6 weeks in a single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial with 56 subjects with multiple sclerosis and fatigue. There were no serious adverse events but fatigue on ginseng, as assessed by the Fatigue Severity Scale, was not significantly different from fatigue on placebo.
Lesions by tissue specific imaging characterize multiple sclerosis patients with more advanced disease
Authors: Bagnato Francesca , Ikonomidou Vasiliki N , van Gelderen Peter , Auh Sungyoung , Hanafy Jailan , Cantor Fredric K , Ohayon Joan , Richert Nancy , Duyn Jeff
Published: July 2011

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid tissue specific imaging (CSF-TSI), a newly implemented magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique, allows visualization of a subset of chronic black holes (cBHs) with MRI characteristics suggestive of the presence of CSF-like fluid, and representing lesions with extensive tissue destruction.

Objective: To investigate the relationship between lesions in CSF-TSI and disease measures in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods: Twenty-six patients with MS were imaged at 3.0 T, obtaining T1-weighted (T1-w) and T2-w spin echo (SE), T1 volumetric images and CSF-TSI images. We measured: (i) lesion volume (LV) in T1-w (cBH-LV) and T2-w SE images, and in CSF-TSI; (ii) brain parenchyma fraction (BPF). Differences between patients with and without CSF-TSI lesions were analyzed and association between clinical and MRI metrics were investigated.

Results: cBHs were seen in 92% of the patients while lesions in CSF-TSI were seen in 40%. Patients with CSF-TSI lesions were older, with longer disease duration, higher disability scores, larger cBH-LV and T2-LV, and lower BPF than patients without CSF-TSI lesions (≤0.047). Partial correlation analysis correcting for T2-LV, cBH-LV and BPF showed an association ( p < 0.0001, r = 0.753) between CSF-TSI LV and disability score.

Conclusions: CSF-TSI lesions characterize patients with more advanced disease and probably contribute to the progress of disability.
Measuring vertical integration in parties with multi-level systems data
Authors: Thorlakson Lori
Published: July 2011

Vertical integration is an important concept for political parties. In multi-level or federal contexts, it is said to affect party strength, national integration and federal stability. Despite this, difficulties with the conceptualization and operationalization of vertical integration and a lack of cross-national data impede research. This article clarifies the concept of vertical integration, distinguishing it from related concepts of strength, centralization and autonomy and distinguishing the indicators of integration from the effects of integration. It introduces the measures of vertical integration and autonomy used in the Party Organization in Multi-Level Systems (POMLS) dataset comprising data from survey responses from 204 state-level parties in eight countries. The data confirm the theoretical distinctions among forms of vertical integration and between vertical integration and autonomy and show that not all forms of vertical integration are mutually reinforcing.
Can Clean-Room Particle Counters be Used as an Infection Control Tool in Hospital Operating Theatres?
Authors: Pankhurst L.J. , Taylor J. , Cloutman-Green E.A. , Hartley J.C. , Lai K.M.
Published: July 2011

Current UK guidelines for the commissioning of hospital operating theatres rely on air-flow checks, identification of “short-circuits” and measurement of airborne microbiological levels under design conditions when the theatre is idle. There is currently no guideline for infection control teams to investigate theatres when an increased infection risk is suspected. This study aims to examine the use of clean-room particle counters as an infection control tool by monitoring particle profiles in air as a surrogate for infectious particles. Particle counters (three- and six-channel) were used to simultaneously measure particle concentrations at the theatre inlet area, two outlets and bed area, under design and working conditions. A significant increase in particles of all size ranges (0.3 to >10 µm diameter) was observed when people were introduced. Particle distribution was uneven, with response to environmental changes different at the two outlets. Removal efficiency varied from 52–100%, due to the introduction of particles to the theatre. Within the bed area, significantly different concentrations were measured under design and working conditions; corresponding microbiological samples indicated an associated increase in airborne bacteria. We concluded that particle counters can be used in some aspects of infection control, although more studies are required to fully explore their potential.
Thermal Performance Analysis for Ventilated and Unventilated Glazed Rooms in Malaysia (Comparing Simulated and Field Data)
Authors: Al-Tamimi Nedhal Ahmed M. , Syed Fadzil Sharifah Fairuz
Published: July 2011

Glazed windows can cause intensive overheating due to solar radiation within buildings in hot climates. These glazed windows, according to their apertures, can also provide cross-ventilation which is necessary for cooling and improving thermal comfort of occupants. Many computerized environmental simulation tools are available to help designers to predict the environmental performance of their design at the early stage. The thermal comfort study presented in this paper involved the use of field measurement and computer simulation tool, i.e. Ecotect. Validation of Ecotect was carried out by comparing the computer simulation results with the field measurements of the east-facing room at Fajar Harapan Hostel, University Science Malaysia, which has a 50% glazed area-to-wall ratio. Output data from Ecotect were compared to the fieldwork data in terms of indoor/outdoor air temperatures and indoor air velocity. The impact of reducing the glazed area from window wall ratio = 50% in the base case to 25% and 00% (i.e. window less) was investigated. The results showed that the simulation compared well with the field data with a difference of less than 0.9°C, indicating that rooms with a large glazed window area would be relatively cool during night-time only, and a smaller glazed window area would perform well during daytime as well as night-time.
Treaty reform and the Commission’s appointment and policy-making role in the European Union
Authors: Crombez Christophe , Hix Simon
Published: July 2011

This article analyses the role of the Commission in the European Union (EU). We present a game-theoretical model of two EU processes — Commission appointment and the adoption of legislation — and apply this model to the appointment of recent Commissions and their legislative programmes. Institutional reforms of the EU have led to more involvement of the European Parliament and majority voting in the Council in both processes. We find that the introduction of majority voting in the legislative process in the mid-1980s let the Commission move policy further from the status quo. Yet unanimity for appointing the Commission still allowed the member states to commit to a legislative programme that was preferred by all of them. More recently, the move to majority voting for appointing the Commission, combined with the ability of the European Parliament to amend Commission proposals, has moved the EU towards a more majoritarian political system. However, the potential policy consequences of these changes have been limited thus far because of the particular configuration of policy preferences of the governments and the European Parliament.
Hmong women, marital factors and mental health status
Authors: Vang Pa Der , Bogenschutz Matthew
Published: July 2011

• Summary: An online survey was completed by Hmong women in the United States ( n = 186). The survey was distributed via listserves and websites frequently used by Hmong women, and solicited information about marital factors, presence and intensity of depressive symptoms, and socio-demographic circumstances.

• Findings: The findings of this article indicate a significant relationship between marital abuse and depression among women married as teenagers when compared to non-abused women who married in adulthood. Excessive worry and feeling like everything takes great effort were the two most frequently reported indicators of depression reported by Hmong women in this sample. Additional marital and socio-demographic factors are explored in their relationship with depressive presentation.

• Applications: These findings suggest that mental health practitioners working with Hmong women may need to be particularly attuned to issues of marital stressors related to traditional marriage practices and cultural stressors.
Testing a model of delinquency with Samoan adolescents
Authors: Godinet Meripa T
Published: July 2011

• Summary: This study uses an integrative framework that includes various theories on delinquency to explain the relative contribution of factors on delinquency among Samoan adolescents and their overrepresentation in the Juvenile Justice System. Some 275 Samoan adolescents were recruited for the study from the states of Hawaii and Washington. Structural equation modeling was employed for the analysis.

• Findings: Two models were analyzed. One model tested all the factors regardless of economic status. The full model fits the data well. The other model utilized economic conditions as a moderating factor (multigroup model). The multigroup invariance shows that the measurement model appears to fit better with the higher income group rather than the lower income group. The results suggest that while acculturative stress has a direct impact on delinquency, family cohesion can be a deterrent to high acculturative stress on delinquency particularly for the higher income group. The major hypothesis was confirmed by the data to show that there was a predictive relationship between involvement with antisocial peers and delinquency, and prosocial peers and no delinquency. However, it varied by income group. The higher income group showed a stronger predictive relationship of the involvement with prosocial peers and low delinquency.

• Applications: Given the results, it is imperative for social workers to understand the impact of acculturation on family members and their family functioning. A better understanding of culture and how it operates within a family as well as an understanding of cultural identity is an important part of service to Samoan families.
Dementia in the family: Two Norwegian case studies
Authors: Egset Anne Sofie , Myklebust Jon Olav
Published: July 2011

With increasing longevity the numbers of people suffering from dementia are rising. This development creates problems and dilemmas for public health care agencies as well as close relatives who are expected to provide care. This article is based on two Norwegian case studies of spouses and adult children who give care to elderly people – both males and females – with dementia. Nine families were included in these studies, and a total of 27 persons were interviewed (husbands, wives, sons and daughters). Central topics discussed in this article are the initial phases of the illness, the heavy demands of home care, and dilemmas associated with multiple caregiving roles. The analyses demonstrate the many challenges encountered by people with family members who suffer from dementia.
Collaborative visualization: Definition, challenges, and research agenda
Authors: Isenberg Petra , Elmqvist Niklas , Scholtz Jean , Cernea Daniel , Kwan-Liu Ma  , Hagen Hans
Published: July 2011

The conflux of two growing areas of technology – collaboration and visualization – into a new research direction, collaborative visualization, provides new research challenges. Technology now allows us to easily connect and collaborate with one another – in settings as diverse as over networked computers, across mobile devices, or using shared displays such as interactive walls and tabletop surfaces. Digital information is now regularly accessed by multiple people in order to share information, to view it together, to analyze it, or to form decisions. Visualizations are used to deal more effectively with large amounts of information while interactive visualizations allow users to explore the underlying data. While researchers face many challenges in collaboration and in visualization, the emergence of collaborative visualization poses additional challenges, but it is also an exciting opportunity to reach new audiences and applications for visualization tools and techniques.

The purpose of this article is (1) to provide a definition, clear scope, and overview of the evolving field of collaborative visualization, (2) to help pinpoint the unique focus of collaborative visualization with its specific aspects, challenges, and requirements within the intersection of general computer-supported cooperative work and visualization research, and (3) to draw attention to important future research questions to be addressed by the community. We conclude by discussing a research agenda for future work on collaborative visualization and urge for a new generation of visualization tools that are designed with collaboration in mind from their very inception.
Many roads lead to Rome: Mapping users’ problem-solving strategies
Authors: Mayr Eva , Smuc Michael , Risku Hanna
Published: July 2011

There is more than one path to a solution, especially when it comes to ill-defined problems like complex, real-world tasks. Until now, the evaluation of information visualizations has often been restricted simply to a measuring of outcomes (time and error) or insights into the data set. A more detailed look into the processes that facilitate or hinder task completion is provided by analysing user problem-solving strategies. The study presented in this paper illustrates how such processes can be assessed and how the resulting knowledge can be used in participatory design to improve a visual analytics tool. For users to be equipped with a problem-solving scaffold, the tools used should allow them to choose their own path to the solution – their own route to Rome. We also discuss how the evaluation of problem-solving strategies can shed more light on the ‘exploratory minds’ of users.
Enriching the context of lifelong learning: The challenge of accessing the authentic self by developing self-knowledge using strengths-based positive psychology measures through teaching pre-service art education
Authors: Haines Gina
Published: July 2011

This article focuses on self-study action research that looks at how I teach and how my teaching is perceived by my students and colleagues. I am a teacher educator of visual arts and prepare my students to work in New Zealand primary schools. To teach future teachers through the medium of visual arts to, in their turn, inspire and encourage their students is my challenge and inspiration. In order to teach in a meaningful way, I believe it is essential to be true to your authentic self and use your own strengths. Developing self-knowledge enhances the abilities of these generalist pre-service education students and enables them to offer their future students their very best. My active engagement in identifying my strengths and developing self-knowledge and reflection informs and encourages my lifelong learning. It provides me with an opportunity to examine my own teaching practice and make changes as necessary. This article presents my rationale, theoretical perspectives that have informed my research (including links to self-study, action research, positive psychology and art education theories), the process followed, data gathered, subsequent reflections, and the impact this study has had on my work.
Upstream Dysfunction of Somatomotor Functional Connectivity After Corticospinal Damage in Stroke
Authors: Carter Alex R. , Patel Kevin R. , Astafiev Serguei V. , Snyder Abraham Z. , Rengachary Jennifer , Strube Michael J. , Pope Anna , Shimony Joshua S. , Lang Catherine E. , Shulman Gordon L. , Corbetta Maurizio
Published: July 2011

Background. Recent studies have shown that focal injuries can have remote effects on network function that affect behavior, but these network-wide repercussions are poorly understood. Objective. This study tested the hypothesis that lesions specifically to the outflow tract of a distributed network can result in upstream dysfunction in structurally intact portions of the network. In the somatomotor system, this upstream dysfunction hypothesis predicted that lesions of the corticospinal tract might be associated with functional disruption within the system. Motor impairment might then reflect the dual contribution of corticospinal damage and altered network functional connectivity. Methods. A total of 23 subacute stroke patients and 13 healthy controls participated in the study. Corticospinal tract damage was quantified using a template of the tract generated from diffusion tensor imaging in healthy controls. Somatomotor network functional integrity was determined by resting state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging. Results. The extent of corticospinal damage was negatively correlated with interhemispheric resting functional connectivity, in particular with connectivity between the left and right central sulcus. Although corticospinal damage accounted for much of the variance in motor performance, the behavioral impact of resting connectivity was greater in subjects with mild or moderate corticospinal damage and less in those with severe corticospinal damage. Conclusions. Our results demonstrated that dysfunction of cortical functional connectivity can occur after interruption of corticospinal outflow tracts and can contribute to impaired motor performance. Recognition of these secondary effects from a focal lesion is essential for understanding brain–behavior relationships after injury, and they may have important implications for neurorehabilitation.
Length scale effects in finite strain micromorphic linear isotropic elasticity: finite element analysis of three-dimensional cubical microindentation
Authors: Regueiro R A , Isbuga V
Published: July 2011

A three-dimensional finite strain micromorphic materially linear isotropic elastic model is formulated in two ways for finite element implementation: (i) direct finite strain elasticity; and (ii) rate form with semi-implicit time integration. The model is based upon the finite strain isotropic micromorphic elasticity model proposed by Eringen and Suhubi in 1964. For (i), the direct formulation, the constitutive equations are calculated in the reference configuration, and the resulting stresses are mapped to the current configuration. For (ii), the rate formulation, the constitutive equations are integrated in time in the current configuration using the Truesdell objective stress rates. After formulating the coupled weak form, the balance of linear momentum and the balance of first moment of momentum are linearized to construct the consistent tangent for solution by the Newton–Raphson method. Three-dimensional numerical examples are analysed to compare the two formulations (i) and (ii) for standard finite strain isotropic elasticity, and the formulation (i) is used to demonstrate the elastic length scale effects that come through the higher-order couple stress in the micromorphic theory.
Variable (intrinsic) material length scale for face-centred cubic metals using nano-indentation
Authors: Voyiadjis G Z , Faghihi D
Published: July 2011

The objective of this work is to formulate a micromechanics-based model with a variable (intrinsic) material length scale for face-centred cubic (f.c.c.) metals. The length scale allows for variations in the temperature and the rate indentation size effects (TRISEs) encountered in nano-indentation experiments. In addition, its dependence on the grain size effect and accumulated plastic strain is also incorporated into this model. Two models are proposed here in order to capture the TRISEs in single-crystal and polycrystalline materials through considering different expressions for the density of the geometrically necessary dislocations. Material length scales used in conjunction with gradient theories are also obtained in this work from experimental observations of f.c.c. metals. The results of indentation experiments performed on nickel, gold, copper, and single-crystal platinum and aluminium are used here in order to check the validity of the proposed model as well as the concept assumed with reference to local hardening in nano-indentation. Numerical analysis is performed using ABAQUS/VUMAT software and a physics-based viscoplastic constitutive model.
A new experimental murine model for lipopolysaccharide-mediated lethal shock with lung injury
Authors: Yokochi Takashi
Published: July 2011

We have recently established a new experimental murine model for lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated lethal shock with lung-specific injury. Severe lung injury is induced by administration of LPS into α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer)-sensitized mice; the mice died with acute lung injury and respiratory distress within 24 h. α-GalCer activates natural killer T (NKT) cells in the lungs and liver, and induces the production of interferon (IFN)-γ. However, IFN-γ signaling is only triggered in the lungs and makes them susceptible to LPS. On the other hand, IFN-γ signaling is inhibited in liver and results in few hepatic lesions. Unlike liver NKT cells, lung NKT cells fail to produce interleukin (IL)-4, which down-regulates the IFN-γ signaling, in response to α-GalCer. The differential cytokine profile between lung and liver NKT cells may lead to organ-specific lung lesions. The experimental system using α-GalCer sensitization could be a useful experimental model for clinical endotoxic or septic shock as it presents respiratory failure, a typical manifestation in severe septic patients. In this review, key evidence and the introducuction of the detailed mechanism of LPS-mediated lung-specific injury in α-GalCer-sensitized mice is provided. In particular, the molecular background of organ-specific development of lung injury in the model is focused on.
The New “Media Affect” and the Crisis of Representation for Political Communication
Authors: Barnhurst Kevin G.
Published: July 2011

Political communication research in the United States, despite two decades of change in how the public receives information, follows theories that rely on definitions of citizenship from a century ago and on metaphors growing out of communication techniques and practices of five decades ago. A review of the state of news media, facing technical, labor, and economic crises, and the state of political science, illustrated through research methods, leads to a reexamination of communication at the intersection of media and politics. Political communication theory has come to rely on functional metaphors, economic background assumptions, an emphasis on method, and a legacy of structuralism. The crisis presents current theories with challenges for the representation of citizens and the press in democracy. Especially as young adults reject older forms of information, political communication can renew itself by deepening existing theory and shifting from old effects rationality to a new “media affect” sensibility.
Influence of the Hip on Patients With Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Authors: Meira Erik P. , Brumitt Jason
Published: July 2011

Context: Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is one of the most common conditions limiting athletes. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that dysfunction at the hip may be a contributing factor in PFPS.

Data Sources: MEDLINE (1950–September 2010), CINAHL (1982–September 2010), and SPORTDiscus (1830–September 2010) were searched to identify relevant research to this report.

Study Selection: Studies were included assessing hip strength, lower extremity kinematics, or both in relation to PFPS were included.

Data Extraction: Studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental designs, prospective epidemiology, case-control epidemiology, and cross-sectional descriptive epidemiology in a scientific peer-reviewed journal.

Results: PFPS is associated with decreased hip strength, specifically at the abductors and external rotators. There is a correlation between PFPS and faulty hip mechanics (adduction and internal rotation).

Conclusions: There is a link between the strength and position of the hip and PFPS. These patients have a common deficit once symptomatic. Hip strengthening and a coordination program may be useful in a conservative treatment plan for PFPS.
Performance Enhancement in the Terminal Phases of Rehabilitation
Authors: Lorenz Daniel S. , Reiman Michael P.
Published: July 2011

Context: There is a dearth of literature on the performance enhancement in the recovering athlete in the terminal phases of rehabilitation. There are established training methods that target strength, power, speed, endurance, and metabolic capacity that all lead to performance enhancement.

Evidence Acquisition: A PubMed search from 1980 to 2010 was undertaken for articles in English. Additional references were accrued from reference lists of research articles.

Results: Multiple options are available to improve strength, power, speed, endurance, and metabolic capacity during rehabilitation.

Conclusion: Sports clinicians have several components to address in the rehabilitation of a recovering athlete in addition to performance enhancement. Sports clinicians should focus their efforts on increasing power, a product of maximum force and speed of performance.
Lack of Awareness of Fluid Needs Among Participants at a Midwest Marathon
Authors: Brown Sara , Chiampas George , Jaworski Carrie , Passe Dennis
Published: July 2011

Background: Marathon running has become popular, particularly among inexperienced runners.

Hypothesis: Many marathoners are inexperienced and lack concern for potential complications of marathon running.

Study Design: Cross-sectional survey.

Methods: In sum, 419 runners completed a survey on a variety of topics regarding training for a marathon and hydration strategies.

Results: Overall, 211 females (38.3 ± 9.1 years old) and 208 males (41.6 ± 11.0 years old) participated. They trained for 6.8 ± 4.3 months and had run for 9.8 ± 9.1 years; 33.5% had no marathon experience and 16.9% had run 1 marathon. Of the injuries reported, 77.6% and 72.9% were minor musculoskeletal injuries during the current and previous running seasons, respectively. Of the 278 runners who had run a marathon, 54 (19.0%) had been treated in the medical tent, 31.5% of whom for dehydration. Furthermore, 54.9% and 64.3% of the survey participants were “not at all” concerned with musculoskeletal injury and hyponatremia, respectively. Also, 88.7% did not know their sweat rate; 67.8% did not weigh themselves; and 81.3% had no other method of hydration assessment. No significant correlations were found between concern for hyponatremia and age, sex, or experience.

Conclusions: Most participants were inexperienced, lacked concern for injury or hyponatremia, and were not using methods of hydration assessment.
Physical Activity After Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Vogel Laura A. , Carotenuto Giuseppe , Basti John J. , Levine William N.
Published: July 2011

Context: Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is a common surgical option to treat painful degenerative joint disease. However, there is currently no consensus on the appropriate intensity of physical activity after TJA or how physical activity level affects the rate of revision surgery.

Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the literature regarding physical or athletic activity after TJA was performed to determine current clinical opinion and recommendations regarding appropriate activity levels after TJA, as well as variables affecting successful surgery and improved outcomes.

Results: Many studies in the literature regarding athletic activity after TJA focus on total hip arthroplasty and total knee arthroplasty. The literature reports contradictory results regarding rates of physical activity after TJA as well as the relationship between physical activity and rates of revision surgery. The current trend in expert opinion shows more liberal recommendations for patients to engage in athletic activity after TJA.

Conclusions: Individual characteristics, lifestyle, and patient preferences must be taken into account when one considers appropriate recommendations for athletic activity after TJA. Current trends in clinical opinion favor a higher level of athletic activity after TJA, but clinicians should caution patients not to participate in contact sports or sports that create high joint loads in the replaced joint.
Low Vitamin D Impairs Strength Recovery After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery
Authors: Barker Tyler , Martins Thomas B. , Hill Harry R. , Kjeldsberg Carl R. , Trawick Roy H. , Weaver Lindell K. , Traber Maret G.
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study was to identify strength gains after an anterior cruciate ligament injury and surgery and during inflammatory challenge in participants with disparate vitamin D levels. Plasma samples were obtained from those who had not previously experienced an anterior cruciate ligament injury and from injured patients 2 weeks before and 3 months after anterior cruciate ligament surgery. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D and cytokine concentrations were measured in each blood sample. Single-leg peak isometric forces were measured 2 weeks presurgery and 3 months postsurgery. Compared with noninjured participants, inflammatory cytokines were elevated prior to and following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. During this inflammatory challenge, the peak isometric force increases after surgery were significantly lower in those with plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations <30 ng/mL compared with those with concentrations ≥30 ng/mL. The authors conclude that low vitamin D appears to hinder strength recovery after anterior cruciate ligament surgery and during inflammatory insult.
CD63 is an essential cofactor to leukocyte recruitment by endothelial P-selectin
Authors: Doyle Emily L. , Ridger Victoria , Ferraro Francesco , Turmaine Mark , Saftig Paul , Cutler Daniel F.
Published: July 2011

The activation of endothelial cells is critical to initiating an inflammatory response. Activation induces the fusion of Weibel-Palade Bodies (WPB) with the plasma membrane, thus transferring P-selectin and VWF to the cell surface, where they act in the recruitment of leukocytes and platelets, respectively. CD63 has long been an established component of WPB, but the functional significance of its presence within an organelle that acts in inflammation and hemostasis was unknown. We find that ablating CD63 expression leads to a loss of P-selectin–dependent function: CD63-deficient HUVECs fail to recruit leukocytes, CD63-deficient mice exhibit a significant reduction in both leukocyte rolling and recruitment and we show a failure of leukocyte extravasation in a peritonitis model. Loss of CD63 has a similar phenotype to loss of P-selectin itself, thus CD63 is an essential cofactor to P-selectin.
Deletion of Tet2 in mice leads to dysregulated hematopoietic stem cells and subsequent development of myeloid malignancies
Authors: Li Zhe , Cai Xiaoqiang , Cai Chen-Leng , Wang Jiapeng , Zhang Wenyong , Petersen Bruce E. , Yang Feng-Chun , Xu Mingjiang
Published: July 2011

TET2 is mutated/deleted with high frequencies in multiple forms of myeloid malignancies including MDS, CMML, MPN, and AML. However, little is known regarding the biological function of TET2 and its role in the pathogenesis of myeloid malignancies. To study the function of TET2 in vivo, we generated a Tet2 knock out mouse model. Deletion of Tet2 in mice led to dramatic reduction in the 5-hydroxymethylcytosine levels and concomitant increase in the 5-methylcytosine levels in the genomic DNA of BM cells. The Tet2−/− mice contained an increased Lin−Sca-1+c-Kit+ (LSK) cell pool before the development of myeloid malignancies. A competitive reconstitution assay revealed that Tet2−/− LSK cells had an increased hematopoietic repopulating capacity with an altered cell differentiation skewing toward monocytic/granulocytic lineages. Approximately 1/3 of Tet2−/− and 8% of Tet2+/− mice died within 1 year of age because of the development of myeloid malignancies resembling characteristics of CMML, MPD-like myeloid leukemia, and MDS. Furthermore, transplantation of Tet2−/−, but not wild-type (WT) or Tet2+/− BM cells, led to increased WBC counts, monocytosis, and splenomegaly in WT recipient mice. These data indicate that Tet2-deficient mice recapitulate patients with myeloid malignancies, implying that Tet2 functions as a tumor suppressor to maintain hematopoietic cell homeostasis.
Human mesenchymal stem cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells down-regulate NK-cell cytolytic machinery
Authors: Giuliani Massimo , Oudrhiri Noufissa , Noman Zaeem M. , Vernochet Amelia , Chouaib Salem , Azzarone Bruno , Durrbach Antoine , Bennaceur-Griscelli Annelise
Published: July 2011

A major issue in immunosuppressive biotherapy is the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that harbor regulatory capacity. However, currently used bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) are short-lived and cannot assure long lasting immunoregulatory function both in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, we have generated MSCs from human induced pluripotent stem (IPS-MSCs) cells that share similar properties with embryonic stem cells (ES-MSCs). Herein, we compared the immunoregulatory properties of ES/IPS-MSCs with those of BM-MSCs and showed, for the first time, that IPS-derived MSCs display remarkable inhibition of NK-cell proliferation and cytolytic function in a similar way to ES-MSCs. Both MSCs disrupt NK-cell cytolytic machinery in the same fashion that BM-MSCs, by down-regulating the expression of different activation markers and ERK1/2 signaling, leading to an impairment to form immunologic synapses with target cells and, therefore, secretion of cytotoxic granules. In addition, they are more resistant than adult BM-MSCs to preactivated NK cells. IPS-MSCs could represent an attractive alternative source of immunoregulatory cells, and their capacity to impair NK-cell cytotoxicity constitutes a complex mechanism to prevent allograft rejection.
SuperSAGE evidence for CD14++CD16+ monocytes as a third monocyte subset
Authors: Zawada Adam M. , Rogacev Kyrill S. , Rotter Björn , Winter Peter , Marell Rolf-R. , Fliser Danilo , Heine Gunnar H.
Published: July 2011

Monocytes are a heterogeneous cell population with subset-specific functions and phenotypes. The differential expression of CD14 and CD16 distinguishes classical CD14++CD16−, intermediate CD14++CD16+, and nonclassical CD14+CD16++ monocytes. Current knowledge on human monocyte heterogeneity is still incomplete: while it is increasingly acknowledged that CD14++CD16+ monocytes are of outstanding significance in 2 global health issues, namely HIV-1 infection and atherosclerosis, CD14++CD16+ monocytes remain the most poorly characterized subset so far. We therefore developed a method to purify the 3 monocyte subsets from human blood and analyzed their transcriptomes using SuperSAGE in combination with high-throughput sequencing. Analysis of 5 487 603 tags revealed unique identifiers of CD14++CD16+ monocytes, delineating these cells from the 2 other monocyte subsets. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis suggests diverse immunologic functions, linking CD14++CD16+ monocytes to Ag processing and presentation (eg, CD74, HLA-DR, IFI30, CTSB), to inflammation and monocyte activation (eg, TGFB1, AIF1, PTPN6), and to angiogenesis (eg, TIE2, CD105). In conclusion, we provide genetic evidence for a distinct role of CD14++CD16+ monocytes in human immunity. After CD14++CD16+ monocytes have earlier been discussed as a potential therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases, we are hopeful that our data will spur further research in the field of monocyte heterogeneity.