bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assisted injection in outdoor venues: an observational study of risks and implications for service delivery and harm reduction programming
Authors: Lloyd-Smith Elisa , Rachlis Beth S , Tobin Diane , Stone Dave , Li Kathy , Small Will , Wood Evan , Kerr Thomas 
Published: March 2010

Abstract

Background
Assisted injection and public injection have both been associated with a variety of individual harms including an increased risk of HIV infection. As a means of informing local IDU-driven interventions that target or seek to address assisted injection, we examined the correlates of receiving assistance with injecting in outdoor settings among a cohort of persons who inject drugs (IDU).

Methods
Using data from the Vancouver Injection Drug Users Study (VIDUS), an observational cohort study of IDU, generalized estimating equations (GEE) were performed to examine socio-demographic and behavioural factors associated with reports of receiving assistance with injecting in outdoor settings.

Results
From January 2004 to December 2005, a total of 620 participants were eligible for the present analysis. Our study included 251 (40.5%) women and 203 (32.7%) self-identified Aboriginal participants. The proportion of participants who reported assisted injection outdoors ranged over time between 8% and 15%. Assisted injection outdoors was independently and positively associated with being female (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 1.74, 95% Confidence Intervals (CI): 1.21-2.50), daily cocaine injection (AOR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.29-2.24), and sex trade involvement (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.00-2.06) and was negatively associated with Aboriginal ethnicity (AOR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.41-0.82).

Conclusions
Our findings indicate that a substantial proportion of local IDU engage in assisted injecting in outdoor settings and that the practice is associated with other markers of drug-related harm, including being female, daily cocaine injecting and sex trade involvement. These findings suggest that novel interventions are needed to address the needs of this subpopulation of IDU.
Small ruminant feed systems: perceptions and practices in the transitional zone of Ghana
Authors: Duku Stephanie , van der Zijpp Akke J , Howard Patricia 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Background
Adequate feeding is essential to realizing the potential of small ruminants to alleviate poverty among smallholder farmers. This study was conducted in two villages in the Ejura-Sekyedumase District of Ghana and was motivated by farmers' non-adoption of modern feed technologies, but more importantly by the need to understand the small ruminant feed system considering farmers' different socio-economic backgrounds and how these relate to small ruminant performance. In this study, the feed system was defined as the type, source and seasonality of feeds and how small ruminants access them.

Methods
Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to allow for triangulation. Data were collected in seven stages comprising key informant interviews, a census, a cultural domain study, botanical specimen collection and identification, focus group discussions, a household survey, and a small ruminant performance study.

Results
Farmers listed 175 items that are used as small ruminant feed and salience indexes were calculated. There was high consensus about the domain of small ruminant feeds, with 15 items comprising the consensus model. Respondent agreement scores correlated positively with age and negatively with list length. Respondents from matrilineal lineages had higher agreement scores than those from patrilineal lineages. Natural pasture and wild browse scored high in pair wise ranking by village and sex groups. Of the 33 feeds that farmers fed to goats, maize grains, cassava peels and Margaritaria discoidea were the most salient. Six major feed system groups based on access were identified at household level, which regrouped into three at village level based on feed type and source. Patrilineal households were more likely to tether their livestock. Significant differences were found between some socio-economic groups for pre-weaning average daily gain (ADG) of kids, but not for prolificacy of does.

Conclusions
The need for nutritive and agronomic investigations into major feeds, the creation of non-cropping zones around village fringes and studies on labour demands of different feed systems are proposed. The insight gained in this study on farmers' perceptions and practices relating to small ruminant feeds could guide in the selection and introduction of feed innovations that fit into current feed systems to enhance adoption.
Uses, traditional management, perception of variation and preferences in ackee (Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig) fruit traits in Benin: implications for domestication and conservation
Authors: Ekué Marius RM , Sinsin Brice , Eyog-Matig Oscar , Finkeldey Reiner 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Background
Blighia sapida is a woody perennial multipurpose fruit tree species native to the Guinean forests of West Africa. The fleshy arils of the ripened fruits are edible. Seeds and capsules of the fruits are used for soap-making and all parts of the tree have medicinal properties. Although so far overlooked by researchers in the region, the tree is highly valued by farmers and is an important component of traditional agroforestry systems in Benin. Fresh arils, dried arils and soap are traded in local and regional markets in Benin providing substantial revenues for farmers, especially women. Recently, ackee has emerged as high-priority species for domestication in Benin but information necessary to elaborate a clear domestication strategy is still very sketchy. This study addresses farmers' indigenous knowledge on uses, management and perception of variation of the species among different ethnic groups taking into account also gender differences.

Methods
240 randomly selected persons (50% women) belonging to five different ethnic groups, 5 women active in the processing of ackee fruits and 6 traditional healers were surveyed with semi-structured interviews. Information collected refer mainly to the motivation of the respondents to conserve ackee trees in their land, the local uses, the perception of variation, the preference in fruits traits, the management practices to improve the production and regenerate ackee.

Results
People have different interests on using ackee, variable knowledge on uses and management practices, and have reported nine differentiation criteria mainly related to the fruits. Ackee phenotypes with preferred fruit traits are perceived by local people to be more abundant in managed in-situ and cultivated stands than in unmanaged wild stands, suggesting that traditional management has initiated a domestication process. As many as 22 diseases have been reported to be healed with ackee. In general, indigenous knowledge about ackee varies among ethnic and gender groups.

Conclusions
With the variation observed among ethnic groups and gender groups for indigenous knowledge and preference in fruits traits, a multiple breeding sampling strategy is recommended during germplasm collection and multiplication. This approach will promote sustainable use and conservation of ackee genetic resources.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis induces IL-17A responses through TLR4 and dectin-1 and is critically dependent on endogenous IL-1
Authors: van de Veerdonk Frank L , Teirlinck Anne C , Kleinnijenhuis Johanneke , Kullberg Bart Jan , van Crevel Reinout , van der Meer Jos W M , Joosten Leo A B , Netea Mihai G 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
IL-17A production induced by Mycobacterium tuberculosis through TLR4 and dectin-1 is dependent on the steps necessary for the induction of endogenous IL-1β.
In the present study, we dissected the pathways that trigger the IL-17A responses by MTB. Dectin-1 and TLR4 were shown to be involved in MTB-induced IL-17A production, and blockade of the NOD2, TLR2, or MR had no effect on IL-17A. The MAPK Erk, known to mediate transcription of IL-1β mRNA, was strongly involved in the IL-17A production induced by MTB. The intracellular enzymes caspase-1 and serine proteases, which process pro-IL-1β into the active IL-1β, were also crucial for the induction of IL-17A. Lastly, the MTB-induced IL-17A response was strongly dependent on signaling through the IL-1R but not the IL-6R pathway. In conclusion, the MTB-induced IL-17A response relies strongly on the endogenous IL-1 pathway and IL-1R signaling. TLR4 and dectin-1 are the main receptors responsible for mediating the signals responsible for IL-17A production by MTB. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the host response to mycobacteria and provide the opportunity to explore potential, novel, therapeutic strategies against TB.
Hair dye poisoning – an emerging problem in the tropics: an experience from a tertiary care hospital in South India
Authors: Chrispal Anugrah , Begum Anisa , Ramya I , Zachariah Anand 
Published: March 2010

Super-Vasmol, a cheap, freely-available hair dye is emerging as a major cause of suicidal poisoning in India. It contains potential toxins including paraphenylene diamine, resorcinol, sodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and propylene glycol which can result in multiorgan dysfunction. A retrospective study was conducted over 3.5 years (January 2006 – July 2009) of 13 consecutive patients with Super-Vasmol poisoning admitted to a tertiary care, referral hospital in South India. A chart review including records of clinical presentations, laboratory findings and treatment details was carried out. Eleven of the patients were women and the mean age was 27.2 years. The predominant clinical features were cervico-facial oedema and pain, cola-coloured urine and oliguria. Laboratory investigations revealed elevated hepatic transaminases (100%), leucocytosis (92.3%), elevated creatinine phosphokinase (92.3%), metabolic acidosis (84.6%), hypocalcaemia (61.5%), hyperphosphataemia (46.2%) and renal failure (38.5%). Eight of the patients were discharged with complete recovery. Trends towards a poor outcome were evident among the following patients: late presentation at our centre; when no gastric lavage was done at the primary-care centre; those requiring tracheostomy/intubation at the primary centre; presentation with a low Glasgow Coma Score or seizures; established renal failure; and those who subsequently require dialysis, mechanical ventilation or intensive care. Hair dye poisoning classically presents with cervico-facial oedema, severe rhabdomyolysis and renal failure. Early therapy with tracheostomy and aggressive forced diuresis are essential in order to prevent the high mortality associated with this toxin. It is imperative to raise public awareness of the potential toxicity of the dye as well as to educate physicians about the need for aggressive and early treatment.
MRSA – too many hurdles to overcome: a study from Central India
Authors: Mallick Sanjay Kumar , Basak Silpi 
Published: March 2010

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are commonly associated with nosocomial infections and are usually resistant to many antibiotics. This study describes the prevalence of MRSA strains and their antibiogram in a tertiary care hospital in Central India. The detection of MRSA was done by a cefoxitin (30 µg) disc diffusion test. Antibiotic sensitivity tests were done as per the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines 2006. Of the 280 S. aureus strains studied: 145 (51.8%) strains were MRSA; 51 (35.2%) MRSA strains were inducible clindamycin resistant; and all (100%) MRSA strains were resistant to penicillin and sensitive to vancomycin and linezolid. In order to detect the MRSA strains, cefoxitin disc diffusion tests should be used routinely in any microbiology laboratory to enable prompt treatment for the patient.
Gender Angle to the Climate Change Negotiations
Authors: Wamukonya Njeri , Skutsch Margaret 
Published: March 2010

The South is likely to suffer more from climate change than the North due to its already vulnerable situation and lack of the necessary resources to adapt to change. But do the interests of men and of women differ as regards climate change and does this have a South-North dimension? This paper attempts to establish whether gender issues need to be addressed in the climate change debate. Towards this goal, a number of different issues within the climate change debate, in particular the instruments proposed, are analysed. These include responsibility for emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs), studies on vulnerability to the effects of climate change, mitigation of emissions, capacity building for participation in flexible mechanisms and adaptation to climate change. We conclude that while there are many gender angles related to the climate change convention and the instruments therein, some are more strategic than others. There is little to be gained by looking at the responsibility for emissions on a gendered basis. But in mitigation activities, Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), capacity building, technology transfer, vulnerability studies and projects for adaptation, the poor, the majority of who are women, should be targeted and active participants in decision-making.
Computer-Based Form Generation in Architectural Design — A Critical Review
Authors: Grobman Yasha Jacob , Yezioro Abraham , Capeluto Isaac Guedi 
Published: March 2010

The idea of using computers for form generation and evaluation in the architectural design process has been put forward already in the early days of computers. However, as opposed to computer aided drafting, the generation of form, its optimization and manufacturing has not been widely accepted and implemented by practitioners. The paper critically reviews the research and state of the practice experiments that has been done in this field and develops an argument regarding the possibilities and limitations of computer-based form generation in the architectural design process.
Simulations of Evaporating Spray Jet in a Uniform Co-Flowing Turbulent Air Stream
Authors: De Santanu , Lakshmisha K.N. 
Published: March 2010

Numerical simulations are performed on the flow of fine, polydisperse droplets of acetone ejected from a round jet of air into an ambient turbulent, uniform co-flowing air stream. The objective is to validate the numerical model by comparing the predictions with experimental measurements of a well defined evaporating spray configuration (Chen et al., Int. J. Multiphase Flow 32(2006), 389–412). The carrier-phase is considered in the Eulerian context, while the dispersed phase is tracked in the Lagrangian framework. Various interactions between the two phases are taken into account by means of a two-way coupling. The stochastic separated flow (SSF) model is adopted for the spray calculations. The gas-phase turbulence terms are closed using the standard k-ε model. The spray evaporation is described using a thermal model with an infinite-conductivity. Overall, very good agreement is observed in the comparisons of the computational predictions and experimental measurements. The predicted droplet number-mean axial velocity, r.m.s. of fluctuating velocity for the various droplet classes at different downstream locations exhibit a self-similarity downstream of the nozzle exit. Near the nozzle-exit (around z/djet = 5), the r.m.s. of droplet number mean axial fluctuating velocity attains a maximum within the shear layer near r/djet = 0.4–0.6 for different droplet classes. Further downstream, the peak shifts towards the axis. A similar variation is noticed in the Sauter mean diameter (SMD) distribution of the droplets. It is concluded that, a higher level of turbulence leads to a faster depletion of the smaller droplets, resulting in an increase in the local droplet-SMD in those regions.
Design Overview of a Resonant Wing Actuation Mechanism for Application in Flapping Wing MAVs
Authors: Bolsman C.T. , Goosen J.F.L. , van Keulen F. 
Published: March 2010

This paper shows the design and analysis of the actuation mechanism for a four winged flapping wing MAV. The design is set up to exploit resonant properties, as exhibited by flying insects, to reduce the energy expenditure and to provide amplitude amplification. In order to achieve resonance a significantly flexible structure has to be incorporated into the design. The elastic structure used for the body of the MAV is a ring type structure. The ring is coupled to the wings by a compliant amplification mechanism which transforms and amplifies the ring deflection into the large wing root rotation. After initial sizing, the structures are analyzed by finite elements (eigenvalue and transient analysis). Based on the initial analysis, the structures are realized to be tested later. The wings are first analyzed independent of the structure in order to tune wing hinge stiffness to efficiently generate lift, exploiting passive wing pitching. The wings are tuned by using a quasi-steady aerodynamic model. The tuned wings are tested to judge if manufactured wings reflect the predicted performance. The ring-shaped thorax structure is combined with the wings to test resonant performance of the assembled structure. A test setup is built to quantify lift production. Lift is tested by suspending the prototype on a flexible beam and measuring changes in deflection when the model is actuated. Significant lift is produced using the current prototype. Kinematic patterns present during resonant actuation show correct timing of wing rotation.
Effect of Elevated Temperatures on Flexural Behaviour of Hybrid Fibre Reinforced High Strength Concrete
Authors: Watanabe Kazuo , Bangi Mugume , Horiguchi Takashi 
Published: March 2010

The structural properties of concrete have been studied most widely as a function of compressive strength at elevated temperature. However, only a limited number of studies have been conducted on the flexural behaviour of High Strength Concrete (HSC) at elevated temperature.In this paper, an investigation of the flexural behaviour (bending strength and fracture energy) of HSC and Hybrid-Fibre-Reinforced High Strength Concrete (HFRHSC) was carried out. Physical properties and fracture energy were evaluated during heat exposure (hot test) and after heat exposure (residual test).The results show maximum load decreased suddenly at 200 °C under the hot test environment. For specimens containing steel fibres, the maximum load did not drop suddenly in the hot test condition. It was verified from the Load-Crack Mouth Opening Displacement (CMOD) curve.In the hot tests, the HFRHSC mixture was very effective in preventing brittle fracture.
Liquid Chromatography–Isotope Dilution–Mass Spectrometry as a New Basis for the Reference Measurement Procedure for Hemoglobin A1c Determination
Authors: Kaiser Patricia , Akerboom Theodorus , Ohlendorf Rüdiger , Reinauer Hans 
Published: March 2010

AbstractBackground: Standardization of hemoglobin (Hb)A1c measurements is a process of considerable interest for quality assurance in diabetes management. To contribute to continuous quality improvement and fulfillment of the requirements for reference measurement procedures according to the standards of the International Organization for Standardization, we developed a calibration system of highest metrological order using isotope dilution–mass spectrometry with a reference material.Method: Samples were prepared by enzymatic cleavage based on the IFCC reference measurement procedure for LC-MS analysis. After digestion the samples were spiked with [D7]-labeled glycated and nonglycated hexapeptides as internal standards for quantification. LC-MS analysis was performed by using a C12 reversed-phase column and a gradient of acetonitrile/H2O containing 0.1% formic acid.Results: Calibration systems for HbA1c determination based on liquid chromatography–isotope dilution–mass spectrometry (LC-ID-MS) and on the IFCC reference measurement procedure were compared. A linear regression analysis demonstrated a correlation of r2 = 1.00 between the 2 different calibration systems. Mean deviation was 5.5% for the calibration and 3.3% for hemolysate samples, with a mean expanded uncertainty of 4.9%.Conclusions: This LC-ID-MS procedure allows the current IFCC reference measurement procedure for HbA1c to be raised to a higher order of accuracy.
Reproducibility in Serial C-Reactive Protein and Interleukin-6 Measurements in Post–Myocardial Infarction Patients: Results from the AIRGENE Study
Authors: Karakas Mahir , Baumert Jens , Greven Sonja , Rückerl Regina , Peters Annette , Koenig Wolfgang 
Published: March 2010

Abstract
Background: Among the numerous emerging biomarkers, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) have received widespread interest, and a large database has been accumulated on their potential role as predictors of cardiovascular risk. The concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers, however, are influenced, among other things, by physiological variation, which is the natural within-individual variation occurring over time. Implementation of hsCRP and IL-6 measurement into clinical practice requires data on the reliability of such measurements.
Methods: We serially measured hsCRP and IL-6 concentrations in up to 6 blood samples taken at monthly intervals from 200 post–myocardial infarction patients who participated in the AIRGENE study.
Results: The mean (SD) of the ln-transformed plasma concentrations (in milligrams per liter for hsCRP and nanograms per liter for IL-6) for all participants over all samples was 0.16 (1.04) for hsCRP and 0.76 (0.57) for IL-6, with no significant differences between men and women. The within-individual and analytical variance component for the ln-transformed hsCRP data was 0.37, and the between-individual variance component was 0.73. For the ln-transformed IL-6 data, these values were 0.11 and 0.22, respectively. A substantial part of the total variation in plasma hsCRP and IL-6 concentrations was explained by the between-individual variation (as a percentage of the total variance, 66.1% for the ln-transformed hsCRP data and 66.2% for the ln-transformed IL-6 data). For both markers, 2 measurements were needed to reach a sufficient reliability.
Conclusions: Our results demonstrate considerable stability and good reproducibility for serial hsCRP and IL-6 measurements. Thus, there should be no major concern about misclassification in clinical practice if at least 2 subsequent measurements are taken.