bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision force and position control of an ionic polymer metal composite
Authors: Bhat N , Kim W-J
Published: March 2014

In this paper, model-based precision force and position control of an ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) is presented. A 23.8 mm × 3.4 mm × 0.16 mm IPMC strip was used as an actuator in a cantilever configuration. Open-loop force and position responses of an IPMC are not repeatable, and hence closed-loop precision control is of critical importance to ensure proper functioning, repeat-ability and reliability. After feedback controllers were designed and implemented with empirically obtained fourth-order plant transfer functions, the overshoot decreased from 460 to 2.8 per cent and the settling time was reduced from 37.5 to 3.22 s in force control. In position control the overshoot decreased from 333 to 20.3 per cent and the settling time was reduced from 21.5 to 2.56 s. Microscale precision force and position control capabilities of the IPMC actuator were also demonstrated experimentally. An 8 μN force resolution was achieved with a force noise of 0.5μN r.m.s., and the position resolution was 6 μm with a position noise of 2.5 μm r.m.s. The maximum force and tip displacement achieved with the IPMC actuator under closed-loop control were 2 mN and 5 mm respectively. The IPMC actuator could follow various commanded force and position trajectories such as sinusoidal and trapezoidal position profiles, and a velocity profile with a 3 mm/s maximum velocity. A novel hybrid force and position control strategy demonstrated its utility in practical micromanipulalion applications where the actuator force must be limited to prevent damaging micro-objects. High-precision control of the IPMC at low force level proved its potential for micromanufacturing and micromanipulation applications such as robotic and biomedical microgrippers.
Dynamic modelling and open-loop control of a two-degree-of-freedom twin-rotor multi-input multi-output system
Authors: Ahmad S M , Chipperfield A J , Tokhi M O
Published: March 2014

A dynamic model for the characterization of a two-degree-of-freedom (2DOF) twin-rotor multi-input multi-output system (TRMS) in hover is extracted using a black box system identification technique. Its behaviour in certain aspects resembles that of a helicopter, with a significant crosscoupling between longitudinal and lateral directional motions. Hence, it is an interesting identification and control problem. The extracted model is employed for designing and implementing a feedforward/open-loop control. Open-loop control is often the preliminary step for development of more complex feedback control laws. Hence, this paper also investigates open-loop control strategies using shaped command inputs for resonance suppression in the TRMS. Digital low-pass and band-stop shaped inputs are used on the TRMS test bed, based on the identified vibrational modes. A comparative performance study is carried out and the results presented. The low-pass filter is shown to exhibit better vibration reduction. When modal coupling exists, decoupled feedback controllers are incapable of eliminating vibration. In such cases, generating motion by shaped reference inputs is clearly advantageous.
Hybrid models for hardware-in-the-loop simulation of hydraulic systems Part 2: Experiments
Authors: Ferreira J A , Almeida F Gomes , Quintas M R , Estima de Oliveira J P
Published: March 2014

The use of new control schemes for hydraulic systems has been the object of study during the last few years. A simulated environment is the cheapest and fastest way of evaluating the relative merits of different control schemes for a given application. Real-time simulation allows parametrization and test of the performance of real controllers. This paper describes the set-up of a real-time simulation platform to perform hardware-in-the-loop simulation experiments with the hydraulic models proposed in the companion paper (Part 1). A set of parametrization techniques are proposed for the semi-empirical models of a valve-controlled hydraulic cylinder. Manufacturer's data sheets and/or experimental measurements were used to adjust the model parameters. Some of these were directly calculated and others were estimated through the use of optimization techniques. Closed-loop control experiments were then performed on the real-time simulation platform and on the real system, in order to evaluate the real-time performance of the developed models.
Experimental examination of non-stationary robust vibration control for an elevator rope
Authors: Otsuki M , Yoshida K , Nakagaki S , Nakagawa T , Fujimoto S , Kimura H
Published: March 2014

In this paper, a method to suppress the transverse vibrations of an elevator rope is verified through an experimental approach and its feasibility for practical use is explored. Since the elevator rope has time-varying characteristics and flexibility, it is difficult to reduce its vibrations caused by the resonance due to building sway using conventional active control methods. Therefore, the vibration control problem of elevator rope is resolved using a non-stationary robust control method in this research. The proposed method positively considers the time-varying parameters due to the change in length of the elevator rope and the uncertainties due to modelling errors. The suppression device for the vibrations of the elevator rope is deployed by the traction sheave located at its boundary to control movements through the experiments. Furthermore, time-varying output feedback control is performed with a few sensors using an estimator. In addition, solutions are developed to resolve practical problems such as the packaging of the time-varying controller and the compensation for frictions in an actuator system.
Design of a robust force control system for an automatic live-line maintenance robot using a force disturbance observer
Authors: Ahn K K , Yokota S
Published: March 2014

Uninterrupted power supply has become indispensable during the maintenance task of high-voltage live lines as a result of today's highly information-oriented society and increasing demand of electric utilities. This maintenance task has the risk of electric shock and needs skilled workers. Therefore it is necessary to realize an autonomous robot system using an electrohydraulic manipulator because hydraulic manipulators have the advantage of electric insulation and high power/mass density. Meanwhile an electrohydraulic manipulator using hydraulic actuators has many non-linear elements, and its parameter fluctuations are greater than those of an electrically driven manipulator. Therefore it is relatively difficult to realize not only stable contact work but also accurate force control for the autonomous assembly tasks using hydraulic manipulators.

In this paper, the robust force control of an automatic live-line maintenance robot used in the real maintenance task of an active electric line is examined in detail. A nominal model for the system is obtained from experimental frequency responses of the system, and the deviation of the manipulator system from the nominal model is derived by a multiplicative uncertainty. Robust force disturbance observer is designed using this information in an H∞ framework and implemented on two different set-ups. Experimental results show that highly robust force tracking by the automatic live-line maintenance robot could be achieved even if the stiffness of environment and the shape of wall change.
Model parameter identification for vehicle vibration control with magnetorheological dampers using computational intelligence methods
Authors: Giuclea M , Sireteanu T , Stancioiu D , Stammers C W
Published: March 2014

The parameter identification of magnetorheological dampers by an inverse method is proposed. A modified Bouc-Wen modified dynamic model is considered and its parameters are obtained by using genetic algorithms. The experimental data consist of time histories of current, displacement, velocity, and force measured for both constant and variable current. The model parameters are determined using a set of experimental measurements corresponding to different constant current values and the resulting model is validated on the data measured for variable current. Based on this model a semi-active control of vehicle suspension is studied and a fuzzy controller is developed to reduce the chattering effect.
Torque-based aerial posture control of a two-link acrobat robot
Authors: Hattori K , Yamaura H , Ono K
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with an aerial posture control problem of a two-link acrobat robot with non-zero initial angular momentum. Firstly, a strict feedback system is derived from the equations of motion and the law of conservation of angular momentum of a two-link aerial acrobat robot. The torque acting on the joint of the robot is chosen as the control input of the strict-feedback system. Secondly, a control law based on the backstepping technique is developed. Finally, simulation results show the validity of the proposed control scheme. A trade-off relation between the maximum driving torque and the final posture error and two different motions of the serial robot are discussed.
Modelling and adaptive control of the wire transport system in wire electrical discharge machining
Authors: Yan M-T
Published: March 2014

Accurate control of the tension of a wire electrode is a requirement of a machine for wire electrical discharge machining. In this paper, a closed-loop wire feed and wire tension control system is presented to guarantee smooth wire transport and a constant tension value. The dynamic model and system identification of the wire transport system is derived to analyse and design the control system. A one-step-ahead adaptive controller is proposed to investigate the dynamic performance of the closed-loop wire tension control system. This control scheme can ensure a stable closed-loop system. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed adaptive controller can obtain a faster transient response and a smaller steady state error than a PI (proportional-integral) controller.
Resistive field bond graph models for hydrodynamically lubricated bearings
Authors: Bryant M D , Lee S
Published: March 2014

A lumped parameter model was developed for hydrodynamically lubricated bearings: elements that feature fully lubricated contact between surfaces in relative motion. The bearing models were represented as bond graphs. Currently, bond graphers view bearings as single-port resistance elements, which only account for losses associated with relative tangential motions between surfaces. Machine designers view bearings as devices that generate forces normal to surfaces in relative motion, to maintain position and alignment of shafts or surfaces. Both effects occur in real bearings, coupled together via physics. A lumped parameter model for hydrodynamically lubricated bearings is developed in this paper. The model includes the physical coupling between rotational degrees of freedom and orthogonal degrees of freedom associated with maintaining alignments. These lumped parameter models were synthesized from solutions of the Reynolds equation for various bearing geometries, and include normal motion and squeeze film effects. Since the forces, velocities and displacements pertaining to these orthogonal motions are physically coupled via viscous and constriction effects in the bearing's lubricant flow, the bond graph models involve resistive fields. Examples apply these concepts to thrust and journal bearings.
Poppet-type brake pressure control valve for the hydraulic brake system of railway rolling stock
Authors: Chenvisuwat T , Park S-H , Kitagawa A
Published: March 2014

In this study, a novel hydraulic brake system is proposed in order to increase the reliability of railway brake systems. The hydraulic brake system has not been used as a practical railway brake system until now because the brake pressure control (BPC) valve inherently has internal leakage, which causes an insufficient fail-safe function. Accordingly, the development of an hydraulic BPC valve is focused on in this paper. By adopting poppet elements in the valve, it is possible to maintain the braking force without internal leakage, even when the electric power supply fails. The developed BPC valve includes a built-in pressure feedback mechanism that enables the pressure control function to be maintained when the pressure transducer is broken. The operating principle and wear compensation methods for poppet elements are also examined in this paper. Moreover, a simplified transfer function and a non-linear model are developed to design and analyse the behaviour of the BPC valve. The experimental results verify the linearity of static behaviour, the stability and the performance of the valve to maintain the output pressure. In the final stage, the performance of a practical system using this valve is confirmed with the actual brake device of the Shinkansen railway.
A proportional-derivative-sliding mode hybrid control scheme for a robot manipulator
Authors: Lee K J , Choi J J , Kim J S
Published: March 2014

A hybrid proportional-derivative-sliding mode control scheme is proposed for robot manipulators. This hybrid controller is composed of a proportional-derivative controller and a semi-continuous sliding mode controller. The hybrid controller has a robust performance in the reaching phase, which does not possess the invariance property of the sliding mode, and it has chattering-free characteristics in the sliding mode. Thus, the proportional-derivative-sliding mode hybrid controller has a robust performance in the whole control region. The controller was applied to a two-link SCARA (selective compliant articulated robot for assembly) robot manipulator. It was shown that the proposed control has a good transient response and trajectory tracking performance in the presence of model uncertainties.
Modelling and non-linear feedback stabilization of a two-wheel vehicle
Authors: Karkoub M A , Parent M
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with the modelling and control of a two-wheel vehicle (B2). The wheels of the B2 are connected to the side of the chassis via gearboxes and motors, and rotate around the same axis. This arrangement is different from that of a bicycle where the wheels rotate around parallel axes and are aligned with the chassis. The B2 has many advantages, namely zero pollution since the motors are electrical, high manoeuvrability given its size and relatively low cost. A non-linear dynamic model is derived and used in the control design process. The control techniques used in this work are based on energy and angular momentum zeroing. In the case of energy zeroing, a non-linear control law is used to bring the states near the desired position, where a second linear controller takes over to make the states converge towards the desired position. The second controller is based on momentum zeroing and is able to bring the states to their desired position without switching. The simulation results presented in this paper show the success of both control schemes in stabilizing the B2 vehicle.
Nordic labour market institutions and new migrant workers: Polish migrants in Oslo, Copenhagen and Reykjavik
Authors: Friberg Jon H , Arnholtz Jens , Eldring Line , Hansen Nana W , Thorarins Frida
Published: March 2014

Large-scale migration of workers from new EU member states to the Nordic countries, mostly to fill relatively low-skilled jobs in construction, manufacturing and services, has raised concerns of low-wage competition and the ability of the Nordic social model to uphold labour standards. This article explores variations in wages and working conditions among Polish migrant workers in Oslo, Copenhagen and Reykjavik. The analysis highlights how different institutional configurations within the Nordic labour markets shape the outcomes for migrant workers, and raises questions regarding the ability of the different variations of the Nordic labour market regime to protect workers in an open, unequal and mobile European labour market.
How to improve your PubMed/MEDLINE searches: 3. advanced searching, MeSH and My NCBI
Authors: Fatehi Farhad , Gray Leonard C , Wootton Richard
Published: March 2014

Summary

Although the basic PubMed search is often helpful, the results may sometimes be non-specific. For more control over the search process you can use the Advanced Search Builder interface. This allows a targeted search in specific fields, with the convenience of being able to select the intended search field from a list. It also provides a history of your previous searches. The search history is useful to develop a complex search query by combining several previous searches using Boolean operators. For indexing the articles in MEDLINE, the NLM uses a controlled vocabulary system called MeSH. This standardised vocabulary solves the problem of authors, researchers and librarians who may use different terms for the same concept. To be efficient in a PubMed search, you should start by identifying the most appropriate MeSH terms and use them in your search where possible. My NCBI is a personal workspace facility available through PubMed and makes it possible to customise the PubMed interface. It provides various capabilities that can enhance your search performance.
Target enrichment using parallel nanoliter quantitative PCR amplification
Authors: De Wilde Bram , Lefever Steve , Dong Wes , Dunne Jude , Husain Syed , Derveaux Stefaan , Hellemans Jan , Vandesompele Jo
Published: March 2014

Background

Next generation targeted resequencing is replacing Sanger sequencing at high pace in routine genetic diagnosis. The need for well validated, high quality enrichment platforms to complement the bench-top next generation sequencing devices is high.

Results

We used the WaferGen Smartchip platform to perform highly parallelized PCR based target enrichment for a set of known cancer genes in a well characterized set of cancer cell lines from the NCI60 panel. Optimization of PCR assay design and cycling conditions resulted in a high enrichment efficiency. We provide proof of a high mutation rediscovery rate and have included technical replicates to enable SNP calling validation demonstrating the high reproducibility of our enrichment platform.

Conclusions

Here we present our custom developed quantitative PCR based target enrichment platform. Using highly parallel nanoliter singleplex PCR reactions makes this a flexible and efficient platform. The high mutation validation rate shows this platform’s promise as a targeted resequencing method for multi-gene routine sequencing diagnostics.
Patient and health system delays in the diagnosis and treatment of new and retreatment pulmonary tuberculosis cases in Malawi
Authors: Makwakwa Lumbani , Sheu Mei-ling , Chiang Chen-Yuan , Lin Shoei-Loong , Chang Peter W
Published: March 2014

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) control remains a challenge in Malawi despite the National TB Control Program since 1984. This study aimed at measuring patient and health system delays and identifying factors associated with these delays.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 588 pulmonary TB patients was conducted in three TB centres in Blantyre, Lilongwe, and Mzuzu, between July and December 2011 using a semi-structured questionnaire. Patient delay was defined as the time interval between the onset of TB symptom(s) (a common symptom being coughing) to the first visit to any health provider. Health system delay was the interval from the first care-seeking visit at any health provider to the initiation of anti-tuberculosis treatment. Participants were invited to participate in the study during intensive phase of treatment. The characteristics associated with patient and health system delays were analyzed.

Results

The median patient delay was 14 days for both new and retreatment TB cases (interquartile range [IQR] 14 – 28 and 7 – 21, respectively). The median health system delay was 59 days (IQR 26 – 108) for new and 40.5 days (IQR 21–90) for retreatment cases. Factors associated with longer patient delay in new cases included primary education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.2, 95% CI 1.3 – 3.9) and knowledge that more than three weeks of coughing is a sign of TB (AOR 1.9, 1.1 – 3.3). In retreatment cases, distance >10 Km (AOR 3.3, 1.1 – 9.6) and knowledge that more than three weeks of coughing is a sign of TB (AOR 3.7, 1.3 – 10.7; p < 0.05) were significant factors. Making the first visit to a health centre (OR 1.9, 0.9 – 3.8) or a drug store/ traditional healer (OR 5.1, 1.1 – 21.7) in new TB cases were associated with a longer health system delay (p < 0.05) while smear negative (OR 6.4, 1.5 – 28.3), and smear unknown or not done (OR 6.1, 1.3 – 26.9) among retreatment cases were associated with a longer health system delay (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Effective management and new diagnostic techniques are needed especially among retreatment cases. It is also needed to address geographic barriers to accessing care and increasing TB awareness in the community.
Physical activity in subjects with multiple sclerosis with focus on gender differences: a survey
Authors: Anens Elisabeth , Emtner Margareta , Zetterberg Lena , Hellström Karin
Published: March 2014

Background

There is increasing research that examines gender-issues in multiple sclerosis (MS), but little focus has been placed on gender-issues regarding physical activity. The aim of the present study was to describe levels of physical activity, self-efficacy for physical activity, fall-related self-efficacy, social support for physical activity, fatigue levels and the impact of MS on daily life, in addition to investigating gender differences.

Methods

The sample for this cross-sectional cohort study consisted of 287 (84 men; 29.3%) adults with MS recruited from the Swedish Multiple Sclerosis Registry. A questionnaire was sent to the subjects consisting of the self-administrated measurements: Physical Activity Disability Survey – Revised, Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale, Falls- Efficacy Scale (Swedish version), Social Influences on Physical Activity, Fatigue Severity Scale and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale. Response rate was 58.2%.

Results

Men were less physically active, had lower self-efficacy for physical activity and lower fall-related self-efficacy than women. This was explained by men being more physically affected by the disease. Men also received less social support for physical activity from family members. The level of fatigue and psychological consequences of the disease were similar between the genders in the total sample, but subgroups of women with moderate MS and relapsing remitting MS experienced more fatigue than men.

Conclusions

Men were less physically active, probably a result of being more physically affected by the disease. Men being more physically affected explained most of the gender differences found in this study. However, the number of men in the subgroup analyses was small and more research is needed. A gender perspective should be considered in strategies for promoting physical activity in subjects with MS, e.g. men may need more support to be physically active.
Zoledronic acid inhibits pulmonary metastasis dissemination in a preclinical model of Ewing’s sarcoma via inhibition of cell migration
Authors: Odri Guillaume , Kim Pui-Pui , Lamoureux François , Charrier Céline , Battaglia Séverine , Amiaud Jérôme , Heymann Dominique , Gouin François , Redini Françoise
Published: March 2014

Background

Ewing’s sarcoma (ES) is the second most frequent primitive malignant bone tumor in adolescents with a very poor prognosis for high risk patients, mainly when lung metastases are detected (overall survival <15% at 5 years). Zoledronic acid (ZA) is a potent inhibitor of bone resorption which induces osteoclast apoptosis. Our previous studies showed a strong therapeutic potential of ZA as it inhibits ES cell growth in vitro and ES primary tumor growth in vivo in a mouse model developed in bone site. However, no data are available on lung metastasis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of ZA on ES cell invasion and metastatic properties.

Methods

Invasion assays were performed in vitro in Boyden’s chambers covered with Matrigel. Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP) activity was analyzed by zymography in ES cell culture supernatant. In vivo, a relevant model of spontaneous lung metastases which disseminate from primary ES tumor was induced by the orthotopic injection of 106 human ES cells in the tibia medullar cavity of nude mice. The effect of ZA (50 μg/kg, 3x/week) was studied over a 4-week period. Lung metastases were observed macroscopically at autopsy and analysed by histology.

Results

ZA induced a strong inhibition of ES cell invasion, probably due to down regulation of MMP-2 and −9 activities as analyzed by zymography. In vivo, ZA inhibits the dissemination of spontaneous lung metastases from a primary ES tumor but had no effect on the growth of established lung metastases.

Conclusion

These results suggest that ZA could be used early in the treatment of ES to inhibit bone tumor growth but also to prevent the early metastatic events to the lungs.
Alleviation of Behavioral Hypersensitivity in Mouse Models of Inflammatory Pain with Two Structurally Different Casein Kinase 1 (CK1) Inhibitors
Authors: Kurihara Takashi , Sakurai Eri , Toyomoto Masayasu , Kii Isao , Kawamoto Daisuke , Asada Toshihide , Tanabe Tsutomu , Yoshimura Megumu , Hagiwara Masatoshi , Miyata Atsuro
Published: March 2014

Background:

The phylogenetically highly conserved CK1 protein kinases consisting of at least seven isoforms form a distinct family within the eukaryotic protein kinases. CK1 family members play crucial roles in a wide range of signaling activities. However, the functional role of CK1 in somatosensory pain signaling has not yet been fully understood. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of CK1 in the regulation of inflammatory pain in mouse carrageenan and complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) models.

Results:

We have used two structurally different CK1 inhibitors, TG003 and IC261. TG003, which was originally identified as a cdc2-like kinase inhibitor, had potent inhibitory effects on CK1 isoforms in vitro and in cultured cells. Intrathecal injection of either TG003 (1–100 pmol) or IC261 (0.1–1 nmol) dose-dependently decreased mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by carrageenan or CFA. Bath-application of either TG003 (1 μM) or IC261 (1 μM) had only marginal effects on spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) recorded in the substantia gelatinosa neurons of control mice. However, both compounds decreased the frequency of sEPSCs in both inflammatory pain models.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that CK1 plays an important pathophysiological role in spinal inflammatory pain transmission, and that inhibition of the CK1 activity may provide a novel strategy for the treatment of inflammatory pain.
Global health impacts of policies: lessons from the UK
Authors: Mwatsama Modi K , Wong Sidney , Ettehad Dena , Watt Nicola F
Published: March 2014

Background

The UK government committed to undertaking impact assessments of its policies on the health of populations in low and middle-income countries in its cross-government strategy “Health is Global”. To facilitate this process, the Department of Health, in collaboration with the National Heart Forum, initiated a project to pilot the use of a global health impact assessment guidance framework and toolkit for policy-makers. This paper aims to stimulate debate about the desirability and feasibility of global health impact assessments by describing and drawing lessons from the first stage of the project.

Discussion

Despite the attraction of being able to assess and address potential global health impacts of policies, there is a dearth of existing information and experience. A literature review was followed by discussions with policy-makers and an online survey about potential barriers, preferred support mechanisms and potential policies on which to pilot the toolkit. Although policy-makers were willing to engage in hypothetical discussions about the methodology, difficulties in identifying potential pilots suggest a wider problem in encouraging take up without legislative imperatives. This is reinforced by the findings of the survey that barriers to uptake included lack of time, resources and expertise. We identified three lessons for future efforts to mainstream global health impact assessments: 1) Identify a lead government department and champion – to some extent, this role was fulfilled by the Department of Health, however, it lacked a high-level cross-government mechanism to support implementation. 2) Ensure adequate resources and consider embedding the goals and principles of global health impact assessments into existing processes to maximise those resources. 3) Develop an effective delivery mechanism involving both state actors, and non-state actors who can ensure a “voice” for constituencies who are affected by government policies and also provide the “demand” for the assessments.

This paper uses the initial stages of a study on global health impact assessments to pose the wider question of incentives for policy-makers to improve global health. It highlights three lessons for successful development and implementation of global health impact assessments in relation to stewardship, resources, and delivery mechanisms.
Procalcitonin for diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia in critically ill patients during 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic: a prospective cohort study, systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis
Authors: Pfister Roman , Kochanek Matthias , Leygeber Timo , Brun-Buisson Christian , Cuquemelle Elise , Machado MarianaBenevides Paiva , Piacentini Enrique , Hammond Naomi E , Ingram Paul R , Michels Guido
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Procalcitonin (PCT) is helpful for diagnosing bacterial infections. The diagnostic utility of PCT has not been examined thoroughly in critically ill patients with suspected H1N1 influenza.

Methods

Clinical characteristics and PCT were prospectively assessed in 46 patients with pneumonia admitted to medical ICUs during the 2009 and 2010 influenza seasons. An individual patient data meta-analysis was performed by combining our data with data from five other studies on the diagnostic utility of PCT in ICU patients with suspected 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1) virus infection identified by performing a systematic literature search.

Results

PCT levels, measured within 24 hours of ICU admission, were significantly elevated in patients with bacterial pneumonia (isolated or coinfection with H1N1; n = 77) (median = 6.2 μg/L, interquartile range (IQR) = 0.9 to 20) than in patients with isolated H1N1 influenza pneumonia (n = 84; median = 0.56 μg/L, IQR = 0.18 to 3.33). The area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic curve of PCT was 0.72 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.64 to 0.80; P < 0.0001) for diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia, but increased to 0.76 (95% CI = 0.68 to 0.85; P < 0.0001) when patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia and immune-compromising disorders were excluded. PCT at a cut-off of 0.5 μg/L had a sensitivity (95% CI) and a negative predictive value of 80.5% (69.9 to 88.7) and 73.2% (59.7 to 84.2) for diagnosis of bacterial pneumonia, respectively, which increased to 85.5% (73.3 to 93.5) and 82.2% (68.0 to 92.0) in patients without hospital acquired pneumonia or immune-compromising disorder.

Conclusions

In critically ill patients with pneumonia during the influenza season, PCT is a reasonably accurate marker for detection of bacterial pneumonia, particularly in patients with community-acquired disease and without immune-compromising disorders, but it might not be sufficient as a stand-alone marker for withholding antibiotic treatment.
Hyperplasia and Cellularity Changes in IGF-1-Overexpressing Skeletal Muscle of Crucian Carp
Authors: Li Dongliang , Lou Qiyong , Zhai Gang , Peng Xuyan , Cheng Xiaoxia , Dai Xiangyan , Zhuo Zijian , Shang Guohui , Jin Xia , Chen Xiaowen , Han Dong , He Jiangyan , Yin Zhan
Published: March 2014

The zebrafish skeletal muscle-specific promoter mylz2 was used to cause crucian carp overexpression of the zebrafish IGF-1 cDNA. In stable transgenic germline F1 progenies, a 5-fold increase in the level of IGF-1 in skeletal muscle was observed. Evident skeletal muscle hyperplasia was observed in the transgenic fish through histologic analysis. By analyzing the RNA sequencing transcriptome of the skeletal muscle of IGF-1 transgenic fish and nontransgenic control fish at 15 months of age, 10 966 transcripts with significant expression levels were identified with definite gene descriptions based on the corresponding zebrafish genome information. Based on the results of our RNA sequencing transcriptome profiling analysis and the results of the real-time quantitative PCR analysis performed to confirm the skeletal muscle transcriptomics analysis, several pathways, including IGF-1 signaling, aerobic metabolism, and protein degradation, were found to be activated in the IGF-1-overexpressing transgenic fish. Intriguingly, our transcriptional expression and protein assays indicated that the overexpression of IGF-1 stimulated a significant shift in the myofiber type toward a more oxidative slow muscle type. Although the body weight was surprisingly decreased by IGF-1 transgenic expression, significantly higher oxygen consumption rates were measured in IGF-1-overexpressing transgenic fish compared with their nontransgenic control fish. These results indicate that the sustained overexpression of IGF-1 in crucian carp skeletal muscle promotes myofiber hyperplasia and cellularity changes, which elicit alterations in the body energy metabolism and skeletal muscle growth.
Vitamin D Increases Serum Levels of the Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products in Women With PCOS
Authors: Irani Mohamad , Minkoff Howard , Seifer David B. , Merhi Zaher
Published: March 2014

Context:

Elevation of serum proinflammatory advanced glycation end products (AGEs) is involved in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The soluble receptor for AGEs (sRAGE) acts as a decoy by binding circulating AGEs. Vitamin D supplementation attenuates the deposition of AGEs in the vascular system of diabetic animals and improves some metabolic aspects of vitamin D-deficient women with PCOS. Additionally, serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is elevated in women with PCOS, reflecting abnormal ovarian folliculogenesis.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (vit D3) supplementation on serum sRAGE and AMH in vitamin D-deficient women with PCOS.

Design, Settings, Participants, and Intervention:

Sixty-seven women with (n = 22) or without (control; n = 45) PCOS who were diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency were enrolled. Fifty-one women were replaced with oral vit D3 for 8 weeks (16 with PCOS and 35 controls) and 16 women were not treated (six with PCOS and 10 controls). Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25 OH-D), sRAGE, and AMH concentrations were measured at baseline and after vit D3 supplementation in the treated group and 8 weeks apart in the nontreated group.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Changes in serum sRAGE and AMH concentrations after vit D3 replacement were measured.

Results:

In all participants, there was a negative correlation between body mass index and serum sRAGE levels (r = −0.3, P = .01). In women with PCOS, but not in controls, vit D3 increased serum sRAGE (P = .03) and decreased serum AMH levels (P < .001). The increase in serum sRAGE positively correlated with the increase in serum 25 OH-D after supplementation in women with PCOS (r = 0.6, P = .01).

Conclusion:

In women with PCOS, vit D3 might exert a protective effect against the inflammatory action of AGEs by increasing circulating sRAGE. The normalization in serum AMH induced by vit D3 replacement suggests an improvement in folliculogenesis.
Constitutive Somatostatin Receptor Subtype-3 Signaling Suppresses Growth Hormone Synthesis
Authors: Eigler Tamar , Ben-Shlomo Anat , Zhou Cuiqi , Khalafi Ramtin , Ren Song-Guang , Melmed Shlomo
Published: March 2014

Somatostatin signals through somatostatin receptor subtypes (SSTR) 2 and 5 to attenuate GH secretion. Although expressed in normal pituitary glands and in GH-secreting pituitary tumors, SSTR3 function was unclear, and we have now determined the role of SSTR3 in somatotroph function. Stable rat pituitary tumor cell (GC) transfectants of human SSTR3 (GpSSTR3WT) showed suppression of rat (r) GH promoter activity, GH mRNA expression, and secreted GH concordant with suppressed cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signaling. In contrast, cAMP levels and GH expression were unchanged in cells expressing a mutant SSTR3 DRY motif (GpSSTR3R141A). GH expression was rescued by treatment of GpSSTR3WT with forskolin and 8-bromo-cAMP. GpSSTR3WT exhibited activation of glycogen synthase kinase3-β (GSK3-β), a PKA substrate, which was also reversed by 8-Bromo-cAMP treatment. Moreover, SSTR3-dependent GH transcriptional inhibition was rescued by inhibition of GSK3-β. GpSSTR3WT exhibited elevated Pit-1 serine phosphorylation and decreased Pit-1 occupancy of the rGH promoter with sustained Pit-1 expression. GSK3-β and Pit-1 physically interacted with each other, indicating that Pit-1 may be a GSK3-β phosphorylation substrate. In conclusion, constitutive SSTR3 activity mediates transcriptional repression of GH through cAMP/PKA, leading to subsequent activation of GSK3-β and increased Pit-1 phosphorylation and ultimately attenuating Pit-1 binding to the rGH promoter.
Disability, Losers, and Narrative Remediation
Authors: Minich Julie Avril
Published: March 2014

This essay considers the role of literature in helping us navigate entrenched social conflicts that do not find resolution in simple notions of resistance. It examines the depiction of disability in one contemporary text as a means of considering the broader capacity of politically engaged literature and literary criticism to remediate (to rectify, to correct inequities) the circumstances that produce loss. The argument unfolds in two parts. The first examines the relationship of literature to two meanings of to remediate: 1) to solve problems; and 2) to cure. Engaging with disability studies and its critique of privileging the cure, this portion of the essay examines the potential of literature to help us think about political engagement in the absence of organized social movements. The second part of the essay analyzes Peruvian writer Daniel Alarcón's 2007 novel Lost City Radio, which depicts the demise of the Marxist resistance movements active throughout Latin America during the twentieth century. This novel highlights diverse meanings of the word remediation by addressing the relationship between literary and non-literary media, interrogating post-conflict remediation efforts, and challenging the impulse to cure non-normative bodies. My reading of this novel suggests that we might understand narrative literature as a site where we become more critical readers of our world. In this way, we might come to re-evaluate our most devastating political losses — such as the apparent end of revolutionary resistance movements — so that we can continue to act in their aftermath. The essay does not relinquish the possibility of political commitment in an uncertain political moment but makes a claim for the value of reading well in order to adjudicate among the conflicting and competing narratives that make up our contemporary social world. It suggests that literature's most important remedial function lies in the kind of interpretive work it forces its readers to perform. This interpretive work can lead us to act politically even after enduring political loss.
AFL Community Unionism: The Des Moines Department Store Strike of 1939
Authors: Mettler Matthew M.
Published: March 2014

Matthew M. Mettler examines a 1939 strike of building service workers against Des Moines's largest and most popular department store, Younkers, and its allies in the city's nascent retailers' association that lasted for five weeks. Although the strike failed to achieve the workers' principal demand for a closed union shop, it marked the first time that the city's labor movement and civil rights movement began to reinforce one another. The Building Service Employees International Union local at the center of the strike was affiliated with the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and consisted of thirty-six janitors, porters, and workmen — twenty of whom were African American. This strike was the first majority African American picket line in the city's history, and the black community watched to see if the white labor movement would move beyond its history of racial exclusion. Leading the charge to break away from this history was the city's insurgent and militant Teamsters union, Local 90. The Des Moines Teamsters quickly transformed a dying local into the city's largest and most influential union in the city. Local 90 took over the city's venerated AFL Trades and Labor Assembly from craft unionists and first used it to revitalize Des Moines's working-class community and then extended it to include the city's African American workers. The Younkers strike illustrates an overlooked dynamism at the heart of AFL labor organization in the 1930s and shows how community-based unionism could provide the foundation for progress in race relations.
Influence of Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) on the Three-dimensional Distribution and Alignment of Solvent Molecules in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Doi Hideo , Watanabe Yudai , Aida Misako
Published: March 2014

By means of Monte Carlo simulations together with an ab initio molecular orbital method, we present the influence of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which is a highly polarized spherical-polyhedron, on the distribution and the alignment of surrounding water molecules. The specific alignment of the average dipole moments of solvent water around TMAO is observed in the MC simulation. The number of water molecules in the first hydration shell from MC simulation was in good agreement with the experimental value. A cluster model of TMAO with 12 water molecules was presented as a representative hydration structure of TMAO.
Coordination Oligomers and Polymers of an Oxazole-appended Zinc Chlorophyll Derivative
Authors: Shinozaki Yoshinao , Yoshikawa Isao , Araki Koji , Ohara Kazuaki , Yamaguchi Kentaro , Kawano Shin-ichiro , Tanaka Kentaro , Araki Yasuyuki , Wada Takehiko , Otsuki Joe
Published: March 2014

The self-assembled structures of an oxazole-appended zinc chlorophyll derivative in solution and in a crystal are reported. Cyclic oligomers formed in chloroform, while staircase-like coordination polymers formed in the crystal, both mediated by intermolecular axial coordination of the nitrogen atom in the oxazole moiety to the zinc center in another chlorophyll molecule.
Effect of fall-applied nitrogen on growth, nitrogen storage and frost hardiness of bareroot Larix olgensis seedlings
Authors: Li Guolei , Liu Yong , Zhu Yan , Li Qing , Dumroese R.
Published: March 2014

Nursery response of evergreen trees to fall fertilization has been studied widely, but little attention has been given to deciduous trees. Bareroot Olga Bay larch (Larix olgensis Henry) seedlings were fertilized in the nursery with urea at four rates (0, 30, 60, 90 kg N ha), with half of each rate applied on two dates (September 16 and October 1, 2009). The seedlings were excavated for evaluation on October 15. In the unfertilized (control) treatment, root and shoot dry mass increased by 100% and 57% respectively, while N concentration in the roots and shoots increased by 43% and 40% during the 30 day period. This indicated that substantial biomass growth during this period did not lead to internal nutrient dilution. Root dry mass increased when fall fertilization rates were â¥ 60 kg N ha. Fall fertilization increased N concentrations in root tissue by 48â73%. Compared with the control, shoot tissues of fall fertilized seedlings had slightly higher N concentration and content and significantly higher frost hardiness.â1â1
Biomass and nutrition of naturally regenerated and coppiced birch on cutaway peatland during 37 years
Authors: Hytönen Jyrki , Aro Lasse
Published: March 2014

Biomass production and nutrient use of birch thickets with a mixture of willow on a cut away peatland in southern Finland over a period of 37 years was studied. Dense, naturally regenerated 16-year-old birch stands were cut down, fertilized with either wood ash (P 108 and K 339 kg ha) or PK fertilizer (P 50 and K 95 kg ha) or left unfertilized. The biomass production of the coppiced stands and one uncut stand was monitored for a period of 21 years. Soil nutrient and foliar nutrient concentrations were analyzed several times during the study period. Ash fertilization supplied more nutrients than PK fertilization and increased the soil nutrient amounts more. The foliar phosphorus concentration of birch on control plots indicated a severe phosphorus deficiency which was removed by PK and ash fertilization. Fertilization did not increase nutrient concentrations of the stem (wood + bark) nor the amount of nutrients bound in the biomass. Two energy wood rotations (16+21 years) produced 124â158 Mg ha of leafless, above-ground biomass altogether corresponding to 61â78 Mg ha of carbon. The highest biomass yield was achieved with a rotation of 37 years in the uncut stand (211 Mg ha). Corresponding values for mean annual increment (MAI) were 3.4â4.3 Mg ha and 5.7 Mg ha. This study shows that the length of the rotation for birch in energy wood production should be longer than 21 years. PK and ash fertilization increased the biomass of coppiced 21-year-old birch by 23 Mg ha and 33 Mg ha, respectively.â1â1â1â1â1â1â1â1â1
The operational efficiency of waterway transport of forest chips on Finland’s Lake Saimaa
Authors: Karttunen Kalle , Väätäinen Kari , Asikainen Antti , Ranta Tapio
Published: March 2014

New and cost-efficient methods for use in supply chains for energy wood should be found, to reach the targets of the renewable energy utilisation set by the European Union. The long-distance waterway transportation of forest fuels should be thoroughly investigated, especially in areas where the transport distance is long and waterways could provide a feasible method of conveying forest fuel. In comparison to transport of forest chips by truck, barge-based waterway transport shows a competitive advantage due to the larger loads and higher bulk density of chips it allows. The cost-efficiency of waterway transportation operations related to forest chips in Finlandâs Lake Saimaa region was studied using practical demonstrations and discrete-event simulation. The varying demand for fuel wood in three separate bio-power plants on the Saimaa lakeside (near the cities of Varkaus, Mikkeli, and Savonlinna) was addressed in several barge transportation scenarios. Finally, the economy of barge transportation was compared to the economy of truck transportation as a function of transportation distance and in terms of the annual performance of the transportation methods examined. The waterway supply chain of forest chips was cost-competitive to road transport by truck after 100â150 km. According to the simulation study, the most economical waterway transport options were based on fixed barge system and shift-independent harbor logistics where loading and unloading of barges were carried-out with a wheeled loader and a belt conveyor. Total supply chain costs including the best waterway logistics from road side storage to power plant ranged from 10.75 euros to 11.64 euros/MWh in distances of 100â150 km by waterways. The energy-density of forest chips in the barge load was found to be, on average, 25% higher than that in truck hauling, because of the better compaction of chips. Waterway transport is a viable option for long-distance transportation of forest chips in Eastern Finland.