bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clock Drawing in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment: Recommendations for Dementia Assessment
Authors: Price Catherine C. , Cunningham Holly , Coronado Nicole , Freedland Alana , Cosentino Stephanie , Penney Dana L. , Penisi Alfio , Bowers Dawn , Okun Michael S. , Libon David J.
Published: March 2011

Background: Clock drawing is part of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test but may have administration and scoring limitations. We assessed (1) the reliability of the MoCA clock criteria relative to a published error scoring approach, (2) whether command-only administration could distinguish dementia from cognitively intact individuals and (3) the value of adding a clock copy condition to the MoCA. Methods: Three novice raters and clocks from dementia and control participants were used to assess the 3 aims. Results: MoCA interrater and intrarater reliability were low (i.e. intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.12–0.31) and required repeat training. Clocks drawn to command classified dementia at chance. Inclusion of a copy condition demonstrated expected dementia subgroup patterns. Conclusion: Reliable clock scoring with MoCA criteria requires practice. Supplementing a clock copy to the standard MoCA test (takes <1 min) will improve dementia assessment.
Word Learning in 6-Month-Olds: Fast Encoding–Weak Retention
Authors: Friedrich Manuela , Friederici Angela D.
Published: March 2011

There has been general consensus that initial word learning during early infancy is a slow and time-consuming process that requires very frequent exposure, whereas later in development, infants are able to quickly learn a novel word for a novel meaning. From the perspective of memory maturation, this shift in behavioral development might represent a shift from slow procedural to fast declarative memory formation. Alternatively, it might be caused by the maturation of specific brain structures within the declarative memory system that may support lexical mapping from the very first. Here, we used the neurophysiological method of ERPs to watch the brain activity of 6-month-old infants, when repeatedly presented with object–word pairs in a cross-modal learning paradigm. We report first evidence that infants as young as 6 months are able to associate objects and words after only very few exposures. A memory test 1 day later showed that infants did not fully forget this newly acquired knowledge, although the ERP effects indicated it to be less stable than immediately after encoding. The combined results suggest that already at 6 months the encoding process of word learning is based on fast declarative memory formation, but limitations in the consolidation of declarative memory diminish the long lasting effect in lexical-semantic memory at that age.
Fronto-parietal Areas Necessary for a Multisensory Representation of Peripersonal Space in Humans: An rTMS Study
Authors: Serino Andrea , Canzoneri Elisa , Avenanti Alessio
Published: March 2011

A network of brain regions including the ventral premotor cortex (vPMc) and the posterior parietal cortex (PPc) is consistently recruited during processing of multisensory stimuli within peripersonal space (PPS). However, to date, information on the causal role of these fronto-parietal areas in multisensory PPS representation is lacking. Using low-frequency repetitive TMS (rTMS; 1 Hz), we induced transient virtual lesions to the left vPMc, PPc, and visual cortex (V1, control site) and tested whether rTMS affected audio–tactile interaction in the PPS around the hand. Subjects performed a timed response task to a tactile stimulus on their right (contralateral to rTMS) hand while concurrent task-irrelevant sounds were presented either close to the hand or 1 m far from the hand. When no rTMS was delivered, a sound close to the hand reduced RT-to-tactile targets as compared with when a far sound was presented. This space-dependent, auditory modulation of tactile perception was specific to a hand-centered reference frame. Such a specific form of multisensory interaction near the hand can be taken as a behavioral hallmark of PPS representation. Crucially, virtual lesions to vPMc and PPc, but not to V1, eliminated the speeding effect due to near sounds, showing a disruption of audio–tactile interactions around the hand. These findings indicate that multisensory interaction around the hand depends on the functions of vPMc and PPc, thus pointing to the necessity of this human fronto-parietal network in multisensory representation of PPS.
Differential Contributions of Bilateral Ventral Anterior Temporal Lobe and Left Anterior Superior Temporal Gyrus to Semantic Processes
Authors: Visser M. , Lambon Ralph M. A.
Published: March 2011

Studies of semantic dementia and repetitive TMS have suggested that the bilateral anterior temporal lobes (ATLs) underpin a modality-invariant representational hub within the semantic system. However, it is not clear whether all ATL subregions contribute in the same way. We utilized distortion-corrected fMRI to investigate the pattern of activation in the left and right ATL when participants performed a semantic decision task on auditory words, environmental sounds, or pictures. This showed that the ATL is not functionally homogeneous but is more graded. Both left and right ventral ATL (vATL) responded to all modalities in keeping with the notion that this region underpins multimodality semantic processing. In addition, there were graded differences across the hemispheres. Semantic processing of both picture and environmental sound stimuli was associated with equivalent bilateral vATL activation, whereas auditory words generated greater activation in left than right vATL. This graded specialization for auditory stimuli would appear to reflect the input from the left superior ATL, which responded solely to semantic decisions on the basis of spoken words and environmental sounds, suggesting that this region is specialized to auditory stimuli. A final noteworthy result was that these regions were activated for domain level decisions to singly presented stimuli, which appears to be incompatible with the hypotheses that the ATL is dedicated (a) to the representation of specific entities or (b) for combinatorial semantic processes.
Interactions within and between Corticostriatal Loops during Component Processes of Category Learning
Authors: Lopez-Paniagua Dan , Seger Carol A.
Published: March 2011

We examined dynamic interactions between cortex and BG during stimulus–response and feedback processing phases of categorization. First, we dissociated stimulus–response processing from feedback processing using “jittered” intervals of time between response and feedback to examine how each recruits the four primary corticostriatal loops (motor, executive, visual, and motivational). Second, we examined dynamic interactions within and between corticostriatal loops using Granger causality mapping. On each trial, subjects viewed one of six abstract visual stimuli, pressed a button indicating category membership, and then received feedback as to whether the decision was right or wrong. Stimulus–response processing was associated with greater activity in the visual loop, whereas feedback processing resulted in activity in the executive loop that was sensitive to feedback valence. Granger causality mapping showed patterns of directed influence within corticostriatal loops and between loops from the motor to the executive, to the visual, and finally to the motivational loop. These patterns of interaction are consistent with functional integration of motor processing in the motor loop with feedback processing in the executive loop and maintenance of stimulus–response history for future responses in the motivational loop.
The Default Network Distinguishes Construals of Proximal versus Distal Events
Authors: Tamir Diana I. , Mitchell Jason P.
Published: March 2011

Humans enjoy a singular capacity to imagine events that differ from the “here-and-now.” Recent cognitive neuroscience research has linked such simulation processes to the brain's “default network.” However, extant cognitive theories suggest that perceivers reliably simulate only relatively proximal experiences—those that seem nearby, soon, likely to happen, or relevant to a close other. Here, we test these claims by examining spontaneous engagement of the default network while perceivers consider experiencing events from proximal and distal perspectives. Across manipulations of perspective in four dimensions, two regions of the default network—medial prefrontal cortex and retrosplenial cortex—were more active for proximal than distal events, supporting cognitive accounts that perceivers only richly simulate experiences that seem immediate and that perceivers represent different dimensions of distance similarly. Moreover, stable individual differences in default activity when thinking about distal events correlated with individual variability in an implicit measure of psychological distance, suggesting that perceivers naturally vary in their tendency to simulate far-off or unlikely experiences.
Sanctioning Violence
Authors: Peterson Timothy M. , Drury A. Cooper
Published: March 2011

While economic sanctions are commonly regarded as nonviolent coercive diplomacy, scholars show that senders—particularly democratic senders—are actually more likely to use military force against the targets of their sanctions. In this article, the authors extend this connection between sanctions and military action by arguing that countries targeted with third-party economic coercion are more likely to be targets of dyadic militarized violence from states not involved in the sanctions. The act of sanctioning, the authors argue, lowers the prohibitions to use violence against the sanctioned state by others. Empirical analysis of dyadic data from 1914 to 2000 shows that, within directed dyads, militarized interstate dispute (MID) initiation is more likely when the potential target of conflict is sanctioned by third-party states, particularly when the sanctioning state is a large democracy.
Virtual subjective pilling evaluation: an alternative
Authors: de Oliveira Mendes António , Torrão Fiadeiro Paulo , Lopes Miguel Rui Alberto
Published: March 2011

This paper reports an alternative approach for the evaluation of fabric pilling. On this approach, orthogonal projections of the three-dimensional (3D) fabric images are used directly to virtually evaluate the pilling formation of the fabrics. The 3D images of the fabrics are obtained through the reconstruction of the topography of the real textile fabrics. For that, a dual-scanning optical system (triangulation system) was used, which was developed and implemented by our research team.

This evaluation approach is performed by comparing the appearance of the orthogonal projections of the 3D fabric images with the same photographic standard sets used in the conventional subjective method.

For the validation of the obtained results with this methodology, a comparison was carried out relative to a reference subjective evaluation. This reference evaluation corresponds to a subjective evaluation of the fabrics originally performed by a panel of experts. A comparison was also performed between the results obtained with this methodology and those obtained by an objective evaluation. This objective evaluation corresponds to the automatic attribution of the equivalent pilling grade to the fabrics, based on the calculation of the total volume of pilling formed in their surfaces.

The final results obtained with the described methodology were showed to be globally in agreement with both the reference subjective and the objective evaluations. Subsequently, this method shows potential as an alternative approach for the virtual subjective evaluation of fabric pilling.
A novel approach to reduce fibrillation of PVA fibres using cellulose whiskers
Authors: Uddin Ahmed Jalal , Araki Jun , Gotoh Yasuo , Takatera Masayuki
Published: March 2011

The present study explored, for the first time, the potential for using cellulose whiskers (CWs) for reducing the fibrillation properties of highly oriented and crystalline fibres such as poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The CWs were prepared from native cotton, and their aqueous suspension was homogeneously mixed with the PVA solution. The PVA-CW suspensions were gel-spun and hot-drawn up to their maximum possible draw ratio. The PVA-CW fibres, even when containing a small amount of CWs (5 wt% of PVA), showed a drastic reduction in fibrillation under a severe beating action. Upon incorporating CWs, a dramatic reduction in inter-fibrillar voids, which are responsible for the fibrillation, in highly drawn PVA fibres was observed. The oriented CWs were assumed to be embedded in the inter-fibrillar regions and formed lateral interlinks between fibrils by hydrogen bonding that resist the PVA fibrils from being pushed apart.
Estimating a Noncompensatory IRT Model Using Metropolis Within Gibbs Sampling
Authors: Babcock Ben
Published: March 2011

Relatively little research has been conducted with the noncompensatory class of multidimensional item response theory (MIRT) models. A Monte Carlo simulation study was conducted exploring the estimation of a two-parameter noncompensatory item response theory (IRT) model. The estimation method used was a Metropolis-Hastings within Gibbs algorithm that accepted or rejected new parameters in a bivariate fashion. Results showed that acceptable estimation of the noncompensatory model required a sample size of 4,000 people, six unidimensional items per dimension, and latent traits that are not highly correlated. Although the data requirements to estimate this model are a bit daunting, future advances in methodology could make this model valuable for modeling multidimensional data where the latent traits are not expected to be highly correlated.
A Latent Class Approach to Estimating Test-Score Reliability
Authors: van der Ark L. Andries , van der Palm Daniël W. , Sijtsma Klaas
Published: March 2011

This study presents a general framework for single-administration reliability methods, such as Cronbach’s alpha, Guttman’s lambda-2, and method MS. This general framework was used to derive a new approach to estimating test-score reliability by means of the unrestricted latent class model. This new approach is the latent class reliability coefficient (LCRC). Unlike other single-administration reliability methods, LCRC places few restrictions on the item scores. A simulation study showed that if data are multidimensional or if double monotonicity does not hold, then LCRC is less biased relative to the true reliability than Cronbach’s alpha, Guttman’s lambda-2, method MS, and the split-half reliability coefficient.
An Economic Evaluation of a Laboratory Monitoring Program for Renin-Angiotensin System Agents
Authors: Smith David H. , Raebel Marsha A. , Chan K. Arnold , Johnson Eric S. , Petrik Amanda F. , Weiss Jessica R. , Yang Xiuhai , Feldstein Adrianne
Published: March 2011

Background. The efficiency of patient safety interventions is not well studied, especially laboratory monitoring for drug therapy. More than one-third of preventable adverse drug events are associated with inadequate monitoring. Current knowledge of decreasing adverse drug events through expanded monitoring programs is lacking. Design. The authors focused on a laboratory monitoring program (above usual practice) of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) agents to prevent adverse events of hyperkalemia and acute renal failure. They used a probabilistic decision model to estimate cost savings and cost effectiveness (at $30,000 and $10,000 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY)). Costs included the monitoring program, and offsets from reduced care in 3 populations (overall, chronic kidney disease [CKD], and diabetes). Main results. Adverse events were most common in those with CKD. Intervening on all new users or the subset with diabetes was almost never expected to be cost saving (probability <1%). But a monitoring program restricted to patients with CKD was expected to be cost saving (probability = 95%). A strategy that intervened on all patients, or those with diabetes, was never cost effective, (probability <1%). But intervening on patients with CKD was estimated to be cost effective (at either cost-effectiveness threshold) at least 95% of the time in the base case. Conclusions. The authors’ findings illustrate that for laboratory monitoring to be cost effective, the patient population must be at high enough risk of adverse events. Further inquiry into the willingness to pay for patient safety interventions is needed.
Network Diversity and the Ability of Public Managers to Influence Performance
Authors: Owens Chris T. , Kukla-Acevedo Sharon
Published: March 2011

Much research has focused on characterizing network management in recent years, yet very few studies have addressed how changes in the organization’s demographic composition might influence public managers’ networking activities. This study uses data from over 500 school districts in Texas to explore the effects of student body diversity on the time superintendents spend networking outside of the organization and the joint effect of diversity and networking on aggregate student performance. Using a series of regression models, the authors find that organizational (district) diversity has a positive influence on the amount of time a public manager (superintendent) spends on networking. They also find that organizational diversity has a negative effect on the performance outcome for Latino/a and Low Income students, but this influence can be mitigated by increased networking activities.
Finite-element-based parametric study on welding-induced distortion of TIG-welded stainless steel 304 sheets
Authors: Deshpande A A , Xu L , Sun W , McCartney D G , Hyde T H
Published: March 2011

Finite element (FE) simulation of welding processes enables the prediction of component distortions which significantly reduces the need for physical trials. This facilitates reduction in lead time and costs associated with process planning. In this paper, FE modelling of tungsten inert gas welding is performed using SYSWELD for a butt joint between 2 mm thick stainless steel 304 (SS304) sheets. A three-dimensional double ellipsoid (Goldak) heat source is used to model the heat flow during welding. The heat source definition as validated against an experimentally obtained grain structure (macrograph) and thermal history. The isotropic hardening material behaviour model is used in the mechanical analysis and the annealing is considered at 1300 °C. FE-predicted distortion for an unclamped situation is compared with an experimental trial. The FE-predicted fusion zone, thermal histories, and residual distortion are found to be in reasonably good agreement with experimental results. The validated FE methodology is further used to perform a parametric study on the effect of natural and forced cooling, clamp release times, and welding sequence on distortion.
A Prospective Study of Snowkiting Injuries
Authors: Moroder Philipp , Runer Armin , Hoffelner Thomas , Frick Nora , Resch Herbert , Tauber Mark
Published: March 2011

Background: Snowkiting is becoming an increasingly popular extreme sport; however, its injury rates and patterns are unknown to date.

Purpose: The authors surveyed the injuries in a group of snowkiters over 1 season.

Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods: The study was conducted over the course of 1 winter season ranging from November 2009 until March 2010; 80 snowkiters were surveyed prospectively. All participants were recruited through contacts with snowkite schools, snowkiting-related web portals, or Internet-based social networks.

Results: During 3929 hours of snowkiting recorded, 33 injuries occurred, of which 60.6% were mild; 21.2%, moderate; and 18.2%, severe. The calculated injury rate was 8.4 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure. Most frequently injured body sites were the back (30.3%), knee (24.2%), shoulder (21.2%), and head (21.2%). Upper extremity injuries included 2 shoulder dislocations, a clavicle fracture, and a dislocation fracture of the radial head. Injuries to the lower extremity included 3 knee sprains and 1 anterior cruciate ligament rupture. The most common injury causes were riding errors (75.8%), wind gusts (36.4%), and poor snow conditions (27.3%). When compared with experts (5.1 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure), beginners (20.8 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure) had a significantly increased risk of getting injured (odds ratio [OR] 4.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34-12.64; P = .008). Athletes who used snowboards for snowkiting purposes were injured almost 3 times more frequently than their colleagues using skis (11.7 vs 4.1 injuries per 1000 hours of exposure; OR 2.85; 95% CI, 1.23-6.57; P = .010). The quick-release system (97.5%), helmet (92.5%), kite leash (83.8%), spine protector (51.3%), and shoulder protectors (20.0%) were the most commonly used protective/safety equipment.

Conclusion: Snowkiting can be considered a sport carrying a high risk of injury. More caution in assessing local snow conditions and wind gust occurrences is recommended as well as considering using the help and advice of a professional instructor when beginning this action-packed sport. Injury prevention strategies should also include the further improvement of currently available safety equipment.
Etanercept Enhances Preservation of Osteochondral Allograft Viability
Authors: Linn Michael S. , Chase Derek C. , Healey Robert M. , Harwood Frederick L. , Bugbee William D. , Amiel David
Published: March 2011

Background: Osteochondral allografts are an increasingly popular treatment for the repair of articular cartilage lesions. Current tissue bank protocols require bacteriological testing that takes from 21 to 28 days to process. During this time, tumor necrosis factor–alpha (TNF-α, a proapoptotic cytokine) is upregulated, resulting in loss of chondrocyte viability. To date, etanercept (a cytokine inhibitor) has not been studied in the current storage paradigm with the intention of preserving cell viability.

Purpose: This study was undertaken to assess whether the addition of etanercept can improve the chondrocyte viability ofosteochondral allograft during storage.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Osteochondral allografts were harvested from 8 Boer goat femurs and placed into storage media and stored at 4°C for 28 days. The experimental group was supplemented with 10 µg/mL of etanercept. After storage, cell viability was assessed by live/dead staining and confocal microscopy. Specimens were also analyzed histologically and underwent histomorphologic analysis. TNF-α expression was measured with semiquantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results: At 28 days, the percentage viability of the superficial zone in etanercept-treated allografts was maintained at significantly higher levels than those measured in the untreated group (69.3 ± 9.4 compared with 47.8 ± 19.1, P = .01). No difference was found histologically between the etanercept and the untreated group (ie, safranin O staining for glycosaminoglycan expression). Histomorphologic assessment showed no difference in indentation stiffness or roughness between groups. TNF-α expression was significantly decreased in the etanercept group compared to the untreated group.

Conclusion: Etanercept was able to maintain cell viability of osteochondral allografts significantly better than the current storage paradigm after 28 days of storage.

Clinical Relevance: Maintaining the viability of the superficial zone will benefit outcomes by facilitating joint articulation via improved lubrication. Additionally, maintaining the cellular viability for increased periods of time may allow a greater window of time in which a suitable recipient may be found.
Tough shape-memory polymer—fiber composites
Authors: Ware Taylor , Ellson Greg , Kwasnik Agatha , Drewicz Stephanie , Gall Ken , Voit Walter
Published: March 2011

This study describes a multi-faceted materials selection problem that ultimately produces a new class of polymer—fiber composites with failure strains of near 400% and ultimate tensile strengths (UTS’s) up to 20 MPa. Independent control of the rubbery modulus (proportional to the compressive force the composite can apply) is demonstrated by altering the crosslinker density of the polymer matrix and the fiber weave. The stress the composite can withstand can be modified with changing fiber material and weave geometry. The resulting SMP—fiber composites can be designed with glass transition temperatures (Tg’s) ranging from 0°C to 75°C, and specific multi-layer combinations of these systems provide a promising candidate for orthopedic casts: specifically, a woven anteres nylon lycra mesh rigidized with a polymer synthesized from methyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, isobornyl acrylate, and trimethylol propane triacrylate. The results of this study are intended to enable future orthopedic applications where the ability to accurately and independently position Tg and the ability to tune recoverable force in toughened, fiber-reinforced SMPs are required.
Effect of chemical surface treatment on the mechanical properties of reinforced plasticized poly(lactic acid) biodegradable composites
Authors: Nor Azowa Ibrahim  , Yunus Wan Md Zin Wan , Othman Maizatul , Abdan Khalina
Published: March 2011

Biodegradable composites were prepared by melt-blending technique using 30 wt% kenaf bast fiber (KBF) to reinforce 70 wt% plasticized poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The KBF was treated with various percentages of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), whereas 5% triacetin was used as plasticizer. The effects of the KBF surface treatments on the tensile, flexural, impact strength, and DMA of the biocomposites were investigated. Tensile, flexural, and impact testing results reveal that 4% of NaOH-treated KBF produced composites with optimum tensile strength (62 MPa), flexural strength (67 MPa), and the impact strength (42 kJ/m2). The removal of the lignin from the fiber during the surface treatment caused the increment in the modulus result. This finding is also supported by the dynamic mechanical analysis. The storage modulus of plasticized PLA/treated KBF is higher than the storage modulus of plasticized PLA/untreated KBF which is attributed to the enhancement of the fiber—matrix adhesion. The loss modulus results showed that the Tg of the plasticized composites was shifting to higher temperature, from 55°C for plasticized PLA/untreated KBF to 65°C for plasticized PLA/treated KBF. The increase in Tg shows that the plasticized PLA has low chain mobility when reinforced with treated KBF, indicating better interaction.
Bracing FRP I-section beams to avoid lateral-torsional buckling
Authors: Razzaq Zia , Sirjani Mojtaba B.
Published: March 2011

This article explains as to how lateral-torsional buckling can be avoided in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) beams having an I-shaped cross section and subjected to major-axis bending. To enable a FRP beam to be able to develop its maximum bending moment capacity corresponding to material cracking of the extreme fibers, a number of lateral braces need to be provided. Herein, a procedure is outlined for determining the required number of lateral braces for a FRP I-section beam. It is shown that a FRP beam loaded about its major cross-sectional axis can experience a drastic reduction in its bending moment capacity if such lateral bracing is not provided, whereas it can develop its maximum load-carrying capacity up to the cracking of the extreme fibers if a sufficient number of lateral braces are provided.
Stress intensity factor for repaired crack with bonded composite patch under thermo-mechanical loading
Authors: Mhamdia R. , Bouadjra B. Bachir , Serier B. , Ouddad W. , Feaugas X. , Touzain S.
Published: March 2011

In this study, the finite element method is used to analyze the effect of the thermal residual stresses resulting from adhesive curing on the performances of the bonded composite repair in aircraft structures. The stress intensity factor at the crack tip is chosen as the fracture criterion in order to estimate the repair performances. The effects of the curing temperature, the geometrical properties of the patch, and the adhesive properties on the variation of the stress intensity factor are analyzed. The obtained results show a significant negative effect of the thermal residual stresses on the repair efficiency and this effect can be reduced if the different repair parameters are optimized.
Advanced treatment of the output-stream of biological leachate treatment by appropriate combination of coagulation/flocculation and oxidation
Authors: Haiying Zhang , Hongtao Hu , Yi Zheng , Donghui Chen , Jingyu Qi
Published: March 2011

An integrated technique consisting of oxidation and coagulation–flocculation processes was investigated in order to provide an effective method for the treatment of biologically pre-treated leachate and to reduce pollutants to values under the limit required for discharging to the receiving waters. Leachate containing 985 mg L−1 chemical oxygen demand (COD) was treated by using oxidation with NaClO, coagulation/flocculation with aluminium sulfate (alum) or poly-ferric sulfate (PFS) as well as combined pre-oxidation followed by coagulation/flocculation. Oxidation resulted in the removal of COD and colour up to 78.9 and 88.4%, respectively, however residual COD values were over 200 mg L−1 even under intensive experimental conditions (high dosage of NaClO and prolonged oxidation time). Coagulation with PFS was found to be more efficient in comparison with alum, and it yielded a residual COD of 184 mg L−1 the optimum coagulation conditions (polyacrylamide (PAM) 5 mg L−1, PFS 30 mg L−1, pH 6, reaction time 20 min). The combined process involving oxidation followed by coagulation/flocculation with PFS resulted in residual COD values lower than 100 mg L−1 the following conditions: 40–60 min pre-oxidation with 30 mg L−1 NaClO followed by coagulation with 200–250 mg L−1. Hence, pre-oxidation with NaClO followed by coagulation with PFS was recommended for removal of biologically-treated substances from the biologically-treated or stabilized leachate.
Time-dependent Nonlinear Behavior of Recycled Polypropylene in High Tensile Stress Loading
Authors: Szpieg M. , Giannadakis K. , Varna J.
Published: March 2011

Inelastic mechanical behavior in tension of a recycled polypropylene (rPP and a rPP with addition of 10% of maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (rPP + MAPP) was characterized and compared. The time-dependent response was decomposed into nonlinear viscoelastic and viscoplastic parts and each of them quantified. It was found that the elastic properties did not degrade during loading. The addition of MAPP did not change the mechanical properties of the rPP. A nonlinear material model was developed and the involved parameters (stress-dependent functions) were identified. The model was then validated in a stress controlled test at a constant stress rate.
A Practical Approach to Understanding Acid–Base Abnormalities in Critical Illness
Authors: Dzierba Amy L. , Abraham Prasad
Published: March 2011

Acid−base disorders are common in the critically ill. Arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis is frequently used to identify and manage acid−base disturbances. Using a systematic problem-solving approach to acid−base disturbances will facilitate the identification and assess the progression and severity of the metabolic and respiratory abnormality. The intent of this review is to examine acid−base physiology and regulation, provide a method to evaluate a patient’s acid−base disorder, and provide therapeutic interventions.
Deep Vein Thrombosis and Stress Ulcer Prophylaxis in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Goodwin Corey M. , Hoffman Jason A.
Published: March 2011

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and stress gastric ulcers can be serious complications in patients admitted to the intensive care unit. This review discusses the risk factors associated with the development of DVT and stress-related mucosal disease (SRMD), evaluates the available literature on current options for DVT and stress ulcer prophylaxis, and examines the associated adverse effects and optimal duration of therapy.
Reduced Sensitivity to Visual Looming Inflates the Risk Posed by Speeding Vehicles When Children Try to Cross the Road
Authors: Wann John P. , Poulter Damian R. , Purcell Catherine
Published: March 2011

Almost all locomotor animals respond to visual looming or to discrete changes in optical size. The need to detect and process looming remains critically important for humans in everyday life. Road traffic statistics confirm that children up to 15 years old are overrepresented in pedestrian casualties. We demonstrate that, for a given pedestrian crossing time, vehicles traveling faster loom less than slower vehicles, which creates a dangerous illusion in which faster vehicles may be perceived as not approaching. Our results from perceptual tests of looming thresholds show strong developmental trends in sensitivity, such that children may not be able to detect vehicles approaching at speeds in excess of 20 mph. This creates a risk of injudicious road crossing in urban settings when traffic speeds are higher than 20 mph. The risk is exacerbated because vehicles moving faster than this speed are more likely to result in pedestrian fatalities.
When Left Is “Right”
Authors: Casasanto Daniel , Chrysikou Evangelia G.
Published: March 2011

Right- and left-handers implicitly associate positive ideas like “goodness” and “honesty” more strongly with their dominant side of space, the side on which they can act more fluently, and negative ideas more strongly with their nondominant side. Here we show that right-handers’ tendency to associate “good” with “right” and “bad” with “left” can be reversed as a result of both long- and short-term changes in motor fluency. Among patients who were right-handed prior to unilateral stroke, those with disabled left hands associated “good” with “right,” but those with disabled right hands associated “good” with “left,” as natural left-handers do. A similar pattern was found in healthy right-handers whose right or left hand was temporarily handicapped in the laboratory. Even a few minutes of acting more fluently with the left hand can change right-handers’ implicit associations between space and emotional valence, causing a reversal of their usual judgments. Motor experience plays a causal role in shaping abstract thought.
Using causal diagrams to guide analysis in missing data problems
Authors: Daniel Rhian M , Kenward Michael G , Cousens Simon N , De Stavola Bianca L
Published: March 2011

Estimating causal effects from incomplete data requires additional and inherently untestable assumptions regarding the mechanism giving rise to the missing data. We show that using causal diagrams to represent these additional assumptions both complements and clarifies some of the central issues in missing data theory, such as Rubin's classification of missingness mechanisms (as missing completely at random (MCAR), missing at random (MAR) or missing not at random (MNAR)) and the circumstances in which causal effects can be estimated without bias by analysing only the subjects with complete data. In doing so, we formally extend the back-door criterion of Pearl and others for use in incomplete data examples. These ideas are illustrated with an example drawn from an occupational cohort study of the effect of cosmic radiation on skin cancer incidence.
Verbal Interaction Sequences and Group Mood
Authors: Lehmann-Willenbrock Nale , Meyers Renee A. , Kauffeld Simone , Neininger Alexandra , Henschel Angela
Published: March 2011

Employing the framework of emotional contagion, this study investigated the link between group interaction sequences (specifically complaining and interest-in-change messages) and group mood. Fifty-two work group discussions from two German industrial enterprises were coded with the act4teams category system (e.g., Lehmann-Willenbrock & Kauffeld). Lag sequential analysis revealed complaining as well as interest-in-change cycles in the discussion flow. A two-dimension (arousal and pleasure) rating instrument was developed to assess group mood. Results showed that complaining cycles were linked to a passive group mood, and interest-in-change cycles were correlated with an active group mood. Neither complaining nor interest-in-change cycles were correlated with the pleasure dimension. We discuss theoretical, methodological, and practical implications of our findings as well as prospects for future research on interaction cycles and group mood.
Musically mapped: Czech popular music as a second ‘world sound’
Authors: Elavsky C. Michael
Published: March 2011

This article broadly considers the developments and contemporary dynamics within Czech popular music culture since that country’s post-communist transition, specifically exploring the relationships between local musicians, the local music culture industries and the dimensions and operations of the global music industry. The interests and objectives of these entities and the complexities of their interconnectivity is explored, especially as it relates to integrating Czech popular music culture into the global realm, the transnational articulation of cultural identity through popular music and the musical geopolitics surrounding transnational distribution policies and practices. Utilizing ethnographic insights, it seeks to contribute to the understanding of global corporate music production processes and the complexities present at the intersections of corporate and music cultures in historically specific contexts.
Effects of ambient temperature, humidity, and other meteorological variables on hospital admissions for angina pectoris
Authors: Abrignani Maurizio G , Corrao Salvatore , Biondo Giovan B , Lombardo Renzo M , Di Girolamo Paola , Braschi Annabella , Di Girolamo Alberto , Novo Salvatore
Published: March 2011

Background: Seasonal peaks in cardiovascular disease incidence have been widely reported, suggesting weather has a role.

Design The aim of our study was to determine the influence of climatic variables on angina pectoris hospital admissions.

Methods: We correlated the daily number of angina cases admitted to a western Sicilian hospital over a period of 12 years and local weather conditions (temperature, humidity, wind force and direction, precipitation, sunny hours and atmospheric pressure) on a day-to-day basis. A total of 2459 consecutive patients were admitted over the period 1987–1998 (1562 men, 867 women; M/F – 1:8).

Results: A seasonal variation was found with a noticeable winter peak. The results of Multivariate Poisson analysis showed a significant association between the daily number of angina hospital admission, temperature, and humidity. Significant incidence relative ratios (95% confidence intervals/measure unit) were, in males, 0.988 (0.980–0.996) ( p = 0.004) for minimal temperature, 0.990 (0.984–0.996) ( p = 0.001) for maximal humidity, and 1.002 (1.000–1.004) ( p = 0.045) for minimal humidity. The corresponding values in females were 0.973 (0.951–0.995) ( p < 0.017) for maximal temperature and 1.024 (1.001–1.048) ( p = 0.037) for minimal temperature.

Conclusions: Environmental temperature and humidity may play an important role in the pathogenesis of angina, although it seems different according to the gender. These data may help to understand the mechanisms that trigger ischemic events and to better organize hospital assistance throughout the year.
Does School Nursing Matter?
Authors: Dewey Bergren Martha
Published: March 2011

The acute nursing community has made great strides in identifying measures that are sensitive to the quantity and quality of nursing care in the hospital. Comparable nurse-sensitive outcome measures must be identified for nursing in the school setting.
Sonographic Evaluation of Aortic Endografts
Authors: Neumyer Marsha M. , Kidd Jenifer , Hodge Megan , Naveh Uzi , Rapoport Sigalit , Goh Elaine Y.
Published: March 2011

The selective use of endovascular devices to repair abdominal aortic aneurysms was introduced in the early 1990s. Although placement of an aortic endograft offers patients a less morbid alternative to surgical repair, this procedure is not without complications. Persistent perfusion of the residual aneurysmal sac via endoleaks may place the patient at risk for aneurysmal enlargement and subsequent rupture. Historically, serial computed tomographic angiography has been used as the primary modality for assessment of aortic endografts. In recent years, sonography has been shown to provide a valued tool for ongoing surveillance of aortic endografts and identification of endoleaks, increasing aneurysmal size, hemodynamic disorders, and graft migration and/or kinking. Standardization of the sonographic evaluation yields accurate information vital to the long-term patency of these conduits.
Activin A skews macrophage polarization by promoting a proinflammatory phenotype and inhibiting the acquisition of anti-inflammatory macrophage markers
Authors: Sierra-Filardi Elena , Puig-Kröger Amaya , Blanco Francisco J. , Nieto Concha , Bragado Rafael , Palomero M. Isabel , Bernabéu Carmelo , Vega Miguel A. , Corbí Angel L.
Published: March 2011

M-CSF favors the generation of folate receptor β–positive (FRβ+), IL-10–producing, immunosuppressive, M2-polarized macrophages [M2 (M-CSF)], whereas GM-CSF promotes a proinflammatory, M1-polarized phenotype [M1 (GM-CSF)]. In the present study, we found that activin A was preferentially released by M1 (GM-CSF) macrophages, impaired the acquisition of FRβ and other M2 (M-CSF)–specific markers, down-modulated the LPS-induced release of IL-10, and mediated the tumor cell growth–inhibitory activity of M1 (GM-CSF) macrophages, in which Smad2/3 is constitutively phosphorylated. The contribution of activin A to M1 (GM-CSF) macrophage polarization was evidenced by the capacity of a blocking anti–activin A antibody to reduce M1 (GM-CSF) polarization markers expression while enhancing FRβ and other M2 (M-CSF) markers mRNA levels. Moreover, an inhibitor of activin receptor-like kinase 4/5/7 (ALK4/5/7 or SB431542) promoted M2 (M-CSF) marker expression but limited the acquisition of M1 (GM-CSF) polarization markers, suggesting a role for Smad2/3 activation in macrophage polarization. In agreement with these results, expression of activin A and M2 (M-CSF)–specific markers was oppositely regulated by tumor ascites. Therefore, activin A contributes to the proinflammatory macrophage polarization triggered by GM-CSF and limits the acquisition of the anti-inflammatory phenotype in a Smad2-dependent manner. Our results demonstrate that activin A–initiated Smad signaling skews macrophage polarization toward the acquisition of a proinflammatory phenotype.
Structural insights into the extracellular assembly of the hematopoietic Flt3 signaling complex
Authors: Verstraete Kenneth , Vandriessche Gonzalez , Januar Mariska , Elegheert Jonathan , Shkumatov Alexander V. , Desfosses Ambroise , Van Craenenbroeck Kathleen , Svergun Dmitri I. , Gutsche Irina , Vergauwen Bjorn , Savvides Savvas N.
Published: March 2011

The class III receptor tyrosine kinase (RTKIII) Fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor 3 (Flt3) and its cytokine ligand (FL) play central roles in hematopoiesis and the immune system, by establishing signaling cascades crucial for the development and homeostasis of hematopoietic progenitors and antigen-presenting dendritic cells. However, Flt3 is also one of the most frequently mutated receptors in hematologic malignancies and is currently a major prognostic factor and clinical target for acute myeloid leukemia. Here, we report the structural basis for the Flt3 ligand-receptor complex and unveil an unanticipated extracellular assembly unlike any other RTKIII/V complex characterized to date. FL induces dimerization of Flt3 via a remarkably compact binding epitope localized at the tip of extracellular domain 3 of Flt3, and it invokes a ternary complex devoid of homotypic receptor interactions. Comparisons of Flt3 with homologous receptors and available mutagenesis data for FL have allowed us to rationalize the unique features of the Flt3 extracellular assembly. Furthermore, thermodynamic dissection of complex formation points to a pronounced enthalpically driven binding event coupled to an entropic penalty. Together, our data suggest that the high-affinity Flt3:FL complex is driven in part by a single preformed binding epitope on FL reminiscent of a “lock-and-key” binding mode, thereby setting the stage for antagonist design.
Mitogenomic phylogenetic analyses of the Delphinidae with an emphasis on the Globicephalinae
Authors: Vilstrup Julia T , Ho Simon YW , Foote Andrew D , Morin Phillip A , Kreb Danielle , Krützen Michael , Parra Guido J , Robertson Kelly M , de Stephanis Renaud , Verborgh Philippe , Willerslev Eske , Orlando Ludovic , Gilbert M Thomas P
Published: March 2011

Background

Previous DNA-based phylogenetic studies of the Delphinidae family suggest it has undergone rapid diversification, as characterised by unresolved and poorly supported taxonomic relationships (polytomies) for some of the species within this group. Using an increased amount of sequence data we test between alternative hypotheses of soft polytomies caused by rapid speciation, slow evolutionary rate and/or insufficient sequence data, and hard polytomies caused by simultaneous speciation within this family. Combining the mitogenome sequences of five new and 12 previously published species within the Delphinidae, we used Bayesian and maximum-likelihood methods to estimate the phylogeny from partitioned and unpartitioned mitogenome sequences. Further ad hoc tests were then conducted to estimate the support for alternative topologies.

Results

We found high support for all the relationships within our reconstructed phylogenies, and topologies were consistent between the Bayesian and maximum-likelihood trees inferred from partitioned and unpartitioned data. Resolved relationships included the placement of the killer whale (Orcinus orca) as sister taxon to the rest of the Globicephalinae subfamily, placement of the Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus) within the Globicephalinae subfamily, removal of the white-beaked dolphin (Lagenorhynchus albirostris) from the Delphininae subfamily and the placement of the rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis) as sister taxon to the rest of the Delphininae subfamily rather than within the Globicephalinae subfamily. The additional testing of alternative topologies allowed us to reject all other putative relationships, with the exception that we were unable to reject the hypothesis that the relationship between L. albirostris and the Globicephalinae and Delphininae subfamilies was polytomic.

Conclusion

Despite their rapid diversification, the increased sequence data yielded by mitogenomes enables the resolution of a strongly supported, bifurcating phylogeny, and a chronology of the divergences within the Delphinidae family. This highlights the benefits and potential application of large mitogenome datasets to resolve long-standing phylogenetic uncertainties.