Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Carriage'
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Seymour, David. "The carriage of understanding." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp01/MQ30024.pdf.
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Gritzfeld, Jenna. "Experimental human pneumococcal carriage." Thesis, University of Liverpool, 2015. http://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/2013340/.
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Pneumococcal disease is preceded by nasopharyngeal colonization, which is also the source of transmission. Current pneumococcal conjugate vaccines protect against invasive disease and reduce carriage in children, but are less effective against mucosal disease and have limited serotype coverage. There is an urgent need for new vaccines and colonization has been suggested as an alternative endpoint in vaccine licensure. Experimental human pneumococcal carriage, although potentially risky, offers a way to examine colonization in the context of vaccination. Experimental carriage also allows the investigation of the impact of a pathogen on the immunological complexity and normal microbiota of humans, both of which cannot be done using animal models. We developed a safe and reproducible method of experimental human pneumococcal carriage, described bacteriological and immune factors associated with carriage, and examined the density and duration of experimental carriage. The data presented in this thesis show that experimental human pneumococcal carriage was safe and reproducible. There were important bacteriological differences between pneumococcal strains that affected carriage. Asymptomatic upper respiratory tract viral infection increased both the risk of pneumococcal colonization and the levels of mucosal Factor H, leading to increased colonization density. This model will be useful in further studies of pneumococcal pathogenicity and host protection against carriage and disease. The model may also be used to select vaccine candidates by protective efficacy in blocking experimental carriage.
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Jones, Gary R. "Human load carriage : the ergonomic assessment and development of military load carriage systems." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2005. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/7858.
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There were two main aims to the thesis: (1) to develop a mobile 'in-field' pressure measurement system to assess pressure at Body-Load Carriage System (LCS) interfaces (shoulders and hips). (2) To evaluate and compare prototype LCS designs in-field and to provide human factor requirements for design improvement. To satisfy the aims of the thesis in-field trials were carried out in a realistic military context. The purposes of these trials were to: (1) compare the standard issue British military LCS against a prototype LCS design in terms of pressure and subjective comfort; (2) increase the understanding of the properties of the shoulder and hip interfaces; (3) assess the relationship between loading at the shoulder and hip; and (4) identify whether other ergonomic issues are also important to consider. By assessing these areas human factors requirements for design were then determined. An additional (minor) aim was to develop a new prototype LCS with a greater degree of compatibility between the components of a military LCS (backpack and webbing), incorporation of material advances, and with a greater consideration for fit and posture. Four main experimental trials were performed the first (n = 11) assessedth e affect of clothing layers at the body-LCS interface on transmitted pressure. Results showed that clothing layers even worn in multiple have no effect on pressure transmission. Thus, no relief from pressure exists for the user. This highlighted the importance of the materials in the shoulder and hip straps. The second trial (n = 10) was a laboratory based comparison of two backpacks, the first the standard issue British military pack, the second a new prototype. Results found significant difference in subjective comfort and also peak pressure at the shoulder interface. The prototype backpack being associated with reduced peak pressure and increased comfort. The third trial (n = 10) assessed whole LCSs (backpack + webbing) in field with civilian participants. The standard issue LCS was compared against a prototype LCS. No significant difference in pressure was identified between the two LCSs, although differences in subjective comfort ratings were still significant indicating a preference for the prototype LCS. The final trial (n = 30) was military in-field trial. Military personnel and loadings were utilised. Again no significant difference in pressure data was identified although differences in subjective ratings remained significant with the prototype LCS design being preferred. Research findings highlighted the continued need for subjective assessment. The relationship between pressure loading at the shoulder and hip interfaces, along with locations of peak pressure within each interface were found to be important factors affecting comfort. Increased pressure distribution at the interfaces via new materials and design was also associated with increased comfort. Other areas which appeared important were the effect of posture and other physical forces not measured (i.e. shear and friction). Human factors guidelines were created for finiher LCS designs and future research ideas were presented.
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Bourgeois, Michel 1954. "The carriage of goods in space /." Thesis, McGill University, 1985. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=65371.
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Tzanakaki, Georgina. "Meningococcal disease and carriage in Greece." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/21580.
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The objectives of the thesis were to answer the following questions: 1. Are genetic and environmental factors associated with carriage among Greek children and young adults similar to those found in northwest Europe? 2. Are strains with serogroups, serotypes and subtypes associated with disease in northwest Europe isolated from patients and carriers in Greece? 3. Are the antibiotic sensitivities of meningococci isolated from patients and carriers in Greece similar to those observed in northwest Europe? 4. Are the genetic clones associated with disease in northwest Europe present among meningococcal strains in Greece and other Balkan countries? Among military recruits and primary and secondary school children active smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke were significantly associated with carriage of meningococci. In both populations the rate of carriage was higher among the 15-19 year age range; similar results were reported for studies in Britain and the Faroe islands. The results obtained from the epidemiological studies (recruits and schoolchildren) showed that viral upper respiratory tract infection in general is not a predisposing factor for colonisation and that specific viral infections (e.g., RSV and influenza) need to be investigated. Lower socio-economic group was not associated with carriage in Greek school children but with smoking habits of members of the house closely involved in child care. While the subtype reagents were able to differentiate strains from both patients and carriers, the serotype antibodies did not react with the majority of strains. The serogroup, serotype and subtype combinations associated with outbreaks in northwest Europe were not found among over 500 isolates examined. The studies on meningococcal strains isolated from patients in Greece and Romania were the first to identify significant phenotypic and genetic differences between meningococcal strains isolated in northwest and southeast European countries.
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Chewapreecha, Kamolchanok. "Evolution of Streptococcus pneumoniae during carriage." Thesis, University of Cambridge, 2015. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.708595.
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Kříž, Jakub. "Analýza carriage Top Drivu vrtné věže." Master's thesis, Vysoké učení technické v Brně. Fakulta strojního inženýrství, 2017. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-318643.
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The subject of this diploma thesis is determination of the cause of crack formation at the carriage Top drive for MND Drilling & Services company. The aim of the diploma thesis is to analyze the load states of the component. Furthermore, the aim is to create a computational model and boundary conditions and to create suggestions of improvements leading to the elimination of cracks. And finally, to evaluate the results of construction improvements..
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Attwells, Renee Louise. "Military load carriage: the effect of increased load, gender and load carriage duration on gait and posture." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2008. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.493698.
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The work presented in this thesis is concerned with the measurement of gait and posture parameters and their variation due to load weight, gender and load carriage duration when carrying military loads. In particular it examines the load carriage system as a whole rather than the backpack alone, which has been the concentration of previous biomechanical load carriage research.
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Martin, Jennifer Leila. "Military load carriage : an innovative method of interface pressure measurement and evaluation of novel load carriage designs." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2001. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/34144.
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This thesis is concerned with the measurement and effects of pressure on the body as a result of military load carriage. High skin pressures are associated with impaired blood flow, brachial plexus disorders and user pain and discomfort. Load carriage research has largely overlooked this issue, mainly due to the lack of an appropriate methodology. The thesis consists of two parts. The aim of part I was to develop and validate a novel method of measuring on-body interface pressures underneath military load carriage equipment. The Tekscan system was used, which provides 954 individual sensing elements over a total sensing area of 238.5cm2. A number of small experiments were undertaken to establish appropriate calibration and measurement error. A five-point rating scale was developed, and included within the experimental procedure; to measure user discomfort at the shoulder area where was 'no discomfort' and 5 was 'unbearably uncomfortable'. Following a pilot study the method was shown to produce reliable data that was sensitive to differences in design of load carriage systems within a comparative experimental design.
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Blacker, Sam David. "Physiological responses to load carriage by backpack." Thesis, University of Chichester, 2009. http://eprints.chi.ac.uk/820/.
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Load carriage (19.3 Jan, 280 min, 31 kg load) in the field elicited a cardiovascular strain of 72 ± 5 %HRmax and caused neuromuscular impairment (7 ± 8% decrease in jump height (P0.05). The differences between conditions appeared to relate to changes in substrate oxidation, neuromuscular impairment and reduced mechanical efficiency. Neuromuscular function was measured in study 5 at 0, 24, 48 and 72 hours after the treadmill walking conditions described in study 4. L W caused no changes in neuromuscular function. Isometric knee extension force decreased immediately after LWLC (15 ± II %, P<0.05) and DWLC (16 ± 17 %, P<0.05), recovering by 72 hours for DWLC only. VA decreased after LWLC only, douhlet half relaxation time and 20:50Hz decreased after LWLC and DWLC (P<0.05). LWLC and DWLC were associated with decreases in isokinetic peak torque of knee, trunk extensors and flexors and shoulder flexors (P<0.05) with complete recovery by 72 hours. Regression models developed in study 6 indicated that participants with the most efficient metaholic and neuromuscular performance during 120 minutes of load carriage (25 kg backpack) on a level gradient had high body mass and high absolute V O, max with strong trunk, shoulder and knee flexors. To examine nutritional interventions to reduce the metabolic cost during, and neuromuscular impairment following, load carriage, participants consumed Placebo [PLA], Carbohydrate [CRO] or Whey Protein [PRO] beverages during 120 minutes ofload carriage and for three days of recovery. During load carriage (study 7), there were no differences in V 0,. RER, or EMG RMS between conditions at minute 5 (P>0.05). The increase in V 0, between 5 and 120 minutes was less during CRO (8 ± 5 %) than PLA (14 ± 6 %, P<0.05) or PRO (17 ± 4 %, P<0.05). RER decreased between minutes 5 and 120 during PLA and PRO only. Peak RMS did not change over time in In. rectus femoris, m. vastus latera/is, m. semitendinosus, and m. biceps femoris. Attenuation in V 02 drift during CRO could not entirely be accounted for by higher carbohydrate oxidation rates. During recovery, neuromuscular function was measured 0, 24, 48 and 72 hours after load carriage (study 8). There was no difference between PLA, CRO or PRO in the decrease in peak torque of knee and trunk extensors and flexors at 0 h. Peak torque of the knee extensors and flexors returned to pre-exercise values at 24 h during PRO followed by CHO at 48 hand PLA at 72 h (P>0.05). Trunk flexors returned to pre exercise value at 24 h for CHO and PRO but 48 h for PLA (P>0.05). Faster recovery of neuromuscular function was probably due to CRO and PRO improving protein balance, thus enhancing repair of muscle tissue damaged during exercise. In conclusion, load carriage increases V 0, and V O, drift whilst walking and causes neuromuscular impairment, which can last for up to 72 hours following exercise. Nutritional supplements can reduce V O,drift and improve the time course of recovery of neuromuscular function.
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Ren, Lei. "Load carriage biomechanics: modelling, simulation and measurement." Thesis, University of Salford, 2005. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.491796.
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The objective of this thesis is to develop and validate a computational methodology for load carriage biomechanics studies, which can lead to better understanding of the biomechanical interactions between pack and human body, and thus to improve load carriage system design.
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Thomas, Justin M. "EFFECT OF LOAD CARRIAGE ON TACTICAL PERFORMANCE." UKnowledge, 2015. http://uknowledge.uky.edu/khp_etds/22.
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Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) operators are specially trained personnel that are required to carry equipment to perform high risk tasks. Given the need to carry this equipment, it is important to understand the potentially deleterious effect that the additional load may have on tactical performance. Furthermore, it is important to identify physical fitness characteristics that are associated with the potential decrement in performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of load carriage on tactical performance and identify fitness characteristics associated with any decrement in performance. Twelve male operators performed a simulated tactical test (STT) on a live firing range with (loaded condition) and without external equipment (unloaded condition) and completed a battery of physical fitness assessments. Time to complete the STT in the loaded condition increased by 7.8% compared to the unloaded condition. Nine of the 13 STT tasks were performed significantly slower in the loaded condition. VO2peak was negatively associated and fatigue index was positively associated with the overall STT delta time. These findings indicate that a higher aerobic capacity and lower anaerobic fatigability are related to a greater resilience to carrying a load while performing tactical tasks.
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McMurray, Claire Louise. "Factors influencing the nasal carriage by staphylococci." Thesis, University of Birmingham, 2016. http://etheses.bham.ac.uk//id/eprint/6943/.
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Nasal carriage of \(Staphylococcus\) \(aureus\) is a major risk factor for surgical infection. An observational longitudinal clinical study was carried out to determine the impact of antibiotic surgical prophylaxis (ASP) on the nasal microbial community, and carriage of staphylococci. Daily nasal samples were taken from 79 study patients, 63 patients received ASP regimens and 16 patients received no antibiotics. Samples were analysed using a culture dependent technique, and a novel culture independent technique using the \(tuf\) gene developed in this thesis. The composition of each individual patient’s own nasal microbial community influenced the observed effect of ASP administration. The overall effect of ASP was a reduction in total aerobic bacterial load and altered the nasal bacterial composition. Both culture and \(tuf\) gene analysis of staphylococcal carriage was comparable, showing an increase in CNS and reduction in \(S\). \(aureus\) after administration of ASP. Analysis of \(tuf\) gene revealed greater staphylococcal species diversity in the nose than by culture, and demonstrated that \(S\). \(aureus\) carriage was not eradicated by ASP. Administration of ASP increased nasal carriage of antibiotic resistant staphylococci. This thesis has demonstrated that ASP impacts on nasal carriage of staphylococci in surgical patients.
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Blandford, Lucy Emily. "Sequelae of Bacteroides fragilis infection and carriage." Thesis, King's College London (University of London), 2018. https://kclpure.kcl.ac.uk/portal/en/theses/sequelae-of-bacteroides-fragilis-infection-and-carriage(bb202025-6e89-451f-876c-bc4c2d1ae1bc).html.
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B. fragilis is considered an opportunistic pathogen, often isolated from abdominal abscesses, bloodstream infections and peritonitis. B. fragilis can produce multiple capsular polysaccharides including an immunomodulatory, zwitterionic, polysaccharide A (PSA) capable of stimulating anti-inflammatory interleukin-10 (IL-10) production. Conversely, some strains can produce a putative carcinogenic toxin, the metalloprotease Bacteroides fragilis toxin (BFT). BFT has been demonstrated to promote colonic cell proliferation and DNA damage in mammalian cell culture and animal models. An additional putative B. fragilis virulence factor present in select strains is a eukaryotic-like ubiquitin protein (BfUbb). BfUbb is capable of interfering with the host ubiquitination cascade this protein but the consequence of this on host health in unknown. This study describes the robust design and validation of PCR-based assay to target specific bacterial taxa and putative virulence genes. The PCR assay was subsequently used to determine prevalence in a collection of gastrointestinal tissue samples from individuals with and without disease. The bft gene was found to have a significantly higher prevalence in individuals newly diagnosed with polyps/cancer compared with a healthy patient group. This finding further points towards the importance of BFT in colonic tumorigenesis. Contrary to previous CRC literature the prevalence of Fusobacterium and fadA were not significant in the cohorts investigated in this study. Colonic location and histological type of Fusobacterium-positive tumours did not result in any significant associations, but the trends observed support previous suggestions of an association between Fusobacterium species and right-sided colon cancer. Presented here is the first reported determination of B. fragilis capsular PSA promoter orientation in vivo. Furthermore, individuals with IBD had a significantly lower percentage of the B. fragilis population PSA orientated on in comparison with a healthy cohort. Similarly, bft-positivity was significantly associated with a lower proportion of the PSA promoter orientated on. In conclusion, overall the results presented indicate that the common gastrointestinal species, B. fragilis, can have wide ranging effects on gastrointestinal health. Between-strain differences and within-strain antigenic variation were shown to have significant associations with patient populations and argue for a gene-centric, and not taxonomic-centric, approach to microbiome research.
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Olsen, Sigb. "Modelling of articular cartilage load-carriage biomechanics." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2003.
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Jounio, U. (Ulla). "Oropharyngeal carriage of respiratory bacteria among military conscripts." Doctoral thesis, Oulun yliopisto, 2012. http://urn.fi/urn:isbn:9789514299179.
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Abstract The aims of this work were to study the carriage of respiratory bacteria and to identify risk factors affecting pharyngeal colonisation by these pathogens among young Finnish men during military service, and also to investigate the role of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) concentrations and MBL2 gene polymorphisms in the carriage of respiratory bacteria. A total of 892 military recruits entering the Kainuu Brigade, including 224 men with asthma, were followed up prospectively to the end of their military service. Carriage of Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and beta-haemolytic streptococci appeared to be higher during and at the end of military service than at the beginning. Smoking was found to be a significant risk factor for colonisation by these bacteria. S.pneumoniae was more common in the asthmatic than military conscripts in the non-asthmatic ones at the beginning of military service. A low MBL level increased the risk of carrying N. meningitidis and beta-haemolytic streptococci during military service among non-smokers but not among smokers. Low MBL levels producing MBL2 haplotypes seemed to be associated with the carriage of N. meningitidis and S. pneumoniae. Characterisation of all the oropharyngeal N.meningitidis isolates obtained (n=215) by phenotypic and genotypic methods showed that most of them belonged to the carriage-associated ST-60 clonal complex. Clonal complexes ST-41/44, ST-32, and ST-23, which have previously been associated with disease, also accounted for a third of the carriage strains. Furthermore, a significant association was indicated between an acute upper respiratory infection and oropharyngeal carriage of the virulent meningococcal ST-23 clone. In conclusion, the results reported here show a significant increase in bacterial carriage during military service and provide new information on the association between MBL and carriage of respiratory bacteria. These findings also highlight the importance of smoking cessation, especially among military conscripts, who have been found to be a risk group for invasive bacterial diseases, and they also point to the importance of meningococcal vaccination for military recruits and the need for an efficacious vaccine against serogroup B meningococciTiivistelmä Hengitystieinfektiot ovat yleisiä varusmiespalvelun aikana. Myös oireeton bakteerien nielukantajuus on lisääntynyt. Useimmiten infektiot ovat lieviä virusinfektioita, mutta bakteerien nielukantajuus voi johtaa myös vaikeisiin bakteeritulehduksiin. Tämän väitöskirjatyön tarkoituksena oli tutkia bakteerien nielukantajuutta varusmiespalveluksen alkaessa ja päättyessä sekä mahdollisten hengitystieinfektioiden aikana ja näin saada uutta tietoa bakteerien nielukantajuuteen vaikuttavista tekijöistä. Lisäksi tavoitteena oli selvittää mannoosia sitovan lektiinin (MBL) sekä MBL2-geenin polymorfismien yhteyttä bakteerien nielukantajuuteen. Työn tarkoituksena oli myös feno- ja genotyypittää varusmiehiltä palveluksen aikana eristetyt meningokokkikannat ja verrata niitä vastaavana ajankohtana invasiivista tautia sairastaneista henkilöistä eristettyihin meningokokkikantoihin. Tutkimuksessa seurattiin prospektiivisesti 892 varusmiestä, jotka suorittivat asepalveluksen Kainuun Prikaatissa vuosina 2004–2006. Tutkimukseen osallistuneista varusmiehistä 224:llä oli astma. Tutkimuksessa havaittiin, että oireeton bakteerien nielukantajuus lisääntyy merkitsevästi varusmiespalveluksen aikana. Lisäksi havaittiin, että tupakointi oli merkittävä itsenäinen riskitekijä pneumokokin, meningokokin sekä beta-hemolyyttisten streptokokkien nielukantajuudelle varusmiespalveluksen aikana. Astmaatikkojen pneumokokin nielukantajuus varusmiespalveluksen alussa oli yleisempi kuin terveiden varusmiesten. Tutkimuksessa osoitettiin myös pienen seerumin MBL-pitoisuuden sekä MBL2-geenin polymorfismin eksoni 1:n alueella ja geenin säätelyalueella olevan riskitekijöitä meningokokin, pneumokokin sekä beta-hemolyyttisten streptokokkien nielukantajuudelle tupakoimattomilla varusmiehillä. Meningokokin nielukannoista jopa kolmasosa kuului genotyyppiryhmään, jonka on aiemmissa tutkimuksissa havaittu liittyvän invasiiviseen tautiin. Tutkimuksessa osoitettiin myös tietyn hyperinvasiivisen meningokokin genotyypin (ST-23) liittyvän hengitystieinfektioepisodeihin. Tässä väitöskirjatyössä osoitettiin, että bakteerien nielukantajuus lisääntyy merkitsevästi varusmiespalveluksen aikana ja että oireettomilla varusmiehillä tavataan myös hyperinvasiivisia meningokokkikantoja. Tutkimus antoi myös uutta tietoa hyperinvasiivisten meningokokin genotyyppien liittymisestä hengitystieinfektioihin sekä MBL:n vaikutuksesta bakteerien nielukantajuuteen. Tutkimushavainnot tukevat tupakoimattomuuden edistämisen tärkeyttä myös varusmiespalveluksen aikana
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Sjöström, Karin. "Molecular epidemiology of pneumococcal carriage and invasive disease /." Stockholm : Karolinska institutet, 2007. http://diss.kib.ki.se/2007/978-91-7357-094-7/.
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Melles, Damian Christian. "Natural population dynamics and carriage of staphylococcus aureus." [S.l.] : Rotterdam : [The Author] ; Erasmus University [Host], 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/1765/11126.
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Radwan, Sally. "Effect of antibiotics for eradication of MRSA-carriage." Thesis, Örebro universitet, Institutionen för läkarutbildning, 2014. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:oru:diva-37002.
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Barbour, Marina Louise. "Conjugate vaccine and carriage of Haemophilus influenzae type b." Thesis, University of Oxford, 1993. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.358581.
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Birrell, Stewart A. "The biomechanics of military load carriage and injury potential." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2007. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/8055.
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This thesis consisted of two main research themes: 1) The biomechanics of military load carriage, and 2) injuries and discomfort caused by load carriage. Although different in their methodological approaches, the two sections are linked and integral to each other. Harman et al (2000) suggest that the biomechanical analysis of military load carriage, and in particular the study of ground reaction forces (GRF), is relevant to the understanding and prevention oflower extremity injuries. The general aims of the biomechanical analysis of load carriage were to determine the effect that heavy load carriage, rifle carriage and load distribution has on GRF parameters. In addition to determining the mechanisms behind these potential changes, base-line data for British military load carriage systems (LCS) were also established. An important factor for the thesis was to consider the LCS as a single unit (where possible) and not its individual components, for example the backpack alone. The final biomechanical study involved a 3D, bi-Iateral gait analysis of load carriage; with this type of analysis being rare in the published literature. Results from the biomechanical studies showed that GRF parameters increased proportionally to applied load, even when heavy loads of up to 40 kg were carried. Also seen was an increase in mediolateral impulse and stance time with greater carried load. Another area which has received little or no attention in the literature is the effect of rifle carriage on gait. This thesis showed that rifle carriage changed basal gait patterns as observed in the GRF parameters. The most noteworthy results were an increase in impact peak and mediolateral impulse. The mechanism behind these changes is most likely to be a restriction of natural arm swing induced by rifle carriage. Distributing load more evenly around the body had limited effect on the GRF parameters measured. However, some important changes were observed. These were an increase in force minimum and a decrease in maximum braking force at the heaviest load. The latter effect has been strongly linked to an increase in the incidence of foot blisters within the literature. Finally, the gait analysis study showed significant increases in joint moments and torques with carried load. Also observed was a decrease in stride length and increase in percentage double support and stance. The main kinematic differences were a decrease in range of motion at the knee and pelvis rotation, and an increase in pelvis tilt as load is added. Four further studies were conducted in an effort to determine the discomfort and injury caused by load carriage. The first 3 studies collected sUbjective discomfort data via interviews, questionnaires and the use of comfort ratings. All of which were collected either during or after a prolonged period of load carriage by military personnel. Results gleaned from these studies showed that the upper limb is susceptible to short term discomfort following load carriage, whereas the lower limb is not. The lower limb may be at an increased risk of developing medium to long term injuries such as joint degradation and stress fractures. However, foot pain was rated as the most uncomfortable skeletal region of the body following a 1 hour field march with load, and blisters were experienced by around 60% of participants. Shoulder discomfort commences almost as soon as load is added and increases steadily with time. However, foot discomfort seems to increase more rapidly once the discomfort first materialises. This early development of shoulder or foot pain may be a risk factor for severe pain or non-completion of a period of prolonged load carriage. Finally, females experienced more discomfort in the hip joint and feet compared to males. (Continues...).
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Fkhir, Moustafa Ahmad. "The carriage of liquefiable cargo : regulations, rights and liabilities." Thesis, University of Southampton, 2017. https://eprints.soton.ac.uk/420769/.
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Solid bulk liquefaction has contributed to the occurrence of many major disasters in the bulk shipping industry. Albeit not being a recent phenomenon, the world was ale1ted to its dangers following the loss of three vessels within three months in 2010, claiming a death toll of 44 crewmembers. Some types of solid bulk materials, i.e. iron ore fine and nickel ore, have a tendency to liquefy after being loaded aboard ships, due to their unique character in rapidly transforming from solid to semi-liquid state. This abnormal behaviour is resulted from an increase in the moisture content present in the cargo, which may have been developed by reason of the vessel's motion or vibrations coming from the engine room. Consequently, the cargo shifts within the vessel's holds and drastically endangers her stability which may result in capsize. Therefore, liquefiable solid bulk materials were described as 'a wet wolf in a d1y sheep's clothing', as they appear dry and safe at loading, but later liquefy jeopardising the safety of life and property at sea. The relevant regulation, namely the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargo (IMSBC) Code, has been criticised for failing to tackle the occurrence of liquefaction incidents. The shipping industry has been mostly dealing with the liquefaction issue from a technical perspective, either recommending the use ofdifferent test methods on the cargo to be loaded or altering vessels' hull structure to accommodate any liquefaction that may occur. As a result, there is no legal research being carried out that outlines the legal implications of the issue of solid bulk liquefaction on chatterparties, and thus shippers, charterers and catTiers are often left in dilemma as to the question of liability once liquefaction occurs and causes the loss of the ship, or when the safety of the cargo cannot be ascertained at the load port resulting in substantial delay. Therefore, this thesis undertakes a thorough assessment of the IMSBC Code's effectiveness, identifying its flaws and reviewing why parties fall short of compliance with its provisions, in Chapter 2. The thesis establishes that miss-categorisation of cargoes within the Code, unreliable test methods delivering inaccurate results and improper enforcement by port authorities are the main factors undermining the effectiveness of the Code. In addition, this thesis examines the application of well-established legal principles under English law to detem1ine the allocation of risk problems that may arise, following liquefaction of the cargo onboard. In particular, it outlines the circumstances when the carrier can rely on the inherent vice defence to exclude his liability for the liquefied damaged cargo in Chapter 3 and, in Chapter 4, it addresses when solid bulk materials can be regarded as dangerous goods, and the consequences on the liabilities of the parties resulting therefrom.
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Lamb, Karen E. "Modelling genetic effects in the transmission of pneumococcal carriage." Thesis, University of Strathclyde, 2010. http://oleg.lib.strath.ac.uk:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=12828.
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Muslim, Khoirul. "Traditional Posterior Load Carriage: Ergonomic Assessment and Intervention Efficacy." Diss., Virginia Tech, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/23726.
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There is a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS) among manual material handling (MMH) workers. However, limited investigations have been undertaken among one large group of workers using a particular MMH method called traditional posterior load carriage (PLC). Such load carriage is typically done without the use of an assistive device (e.g., backpack) in developing countries, and involves exposure to known risk factors for MSS such as heavy loads, non-neutral postures, and high levels of repetition. The current work was completed to investigate the characteristics of the PLC task and physical effects on workers, and to evaluate a practical intervention that may help improve the task. The first study investigated, through structured interviews with 108 workers, the types, prevalence, and impacts of MSS. PLC workers incur a relatively high MSS burden, primarily in the lower back, but also in the feet, knees, shoulders, and neck. These MSS were reported to interfere with daily activity, but only few workers sought medical treatment. Workers suggested several task improvements including the use of a belt, hook, or backpack/frame, and changes in the carriage method. The second and third study investigated, in a laboratory setting involving nine healthy males, the effects of load mass and size, and the use of a simple intervention, respectively, on factors related to low back pain risks during PLC. Increasing load mass caused increased torso flexion, lumbosacral flexion moment, abdominal muscle activity, and torso movement stability in the frontal plane. Increasing load size also caused higher torso flexion, peak torso angular velocity and acceleration, and abdominal muscle activity. Complex interactive effects of load mass and size were found on paraspinal muscle activity and slip risk. The intervention, involving a simple frame to support a load, and use with a higher load placement was found to be potentially beneficial as indicated by reduced lumbosacral moment and ratings of perceived discomfort in several anatomical regions compared to the traditional PLC. Outcomes of this research can facilitate future ergonomic guidelines and interventions to improve working conditions and occupational health and safety for PLC workers.Ph. D.
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Кириленко, Оксана Миколаївна, Катерина Миколаївна Разумова, Валентина Олексіївна Новак, Valentyna Novak, Oksana Kyrylenko, and Kateryna Mykolayvna Razumova. "Marketing approach to differentiation of fare for passenger carriage." Thesis, Національний авіаційний університет, 2017. http://er.nau.edu.ua/handle/NAU/30929.
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Crawford, Robert William. "Chronic Carriage of Salmonella: Biofilms and Gallstones." The Ohio State University, 2009. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1243956689.
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Gonzalez-Escobedo, Geoffrey. "Salmonella spp. Interactions with the Gallbladder during Chronic Carriage." The Ohio State University, 2013. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1374146434.
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Fergenbaum, Mitchell Alan. "Development of safety limits for load carriage in adults." Thesis, Kingston, Ont. : [s.n.], 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/1974/855.
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Lombardi, Marco. "Optimization of composite carriage for a coordinate measurement machine." Thesis, This resource online, 1994. http://scholar.lib.vt.edu/theses/available/etd-06112009-063037/.
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Lankinen, K. S. (Kari S. ). "Catching the pneumococcus:studies focusing on carriage, epidemiology and microbiological methods." Doctoral thesis, University of Oulu, 2003. http://urn.fi/urn:isbn:9514270630.
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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to develop sensitive and specific laboratory diagnostic methods for the demonstration of pneumococcal surface antigens or pneumococcus-specific antibodies in clinical samples. The work took account of epidemiological aspects of both pneumococcal disease and nasopharyngeal carriage of pneumococcus.
We first compared the sensitivity of pneumococcal culture and antigen detection methods in nasopharyngeal samples in a developing country setting and then investigated the possibility of improving the sensitivity of the antigen detection by introducing an enrichment step in the procedure. — Further investigations were designed to determine the validity of pneumolysin-specific immune complex bound antibody assay as a tool for diagnosing pneumococcal ALRI in a developing country setting. Finally, we developed an enzyme immunoassay for the detection of pneumococcal capsular polysaccharide antigens, using type-specific antibodies produced in-house in rabbits through immunisation with an in-house-produced pneumococcal whole cell vaccine. The method was tested in nasopharyngeal and middle ear fluid samples.
The first results indicated that antigen detection might be more sensitive than culture in demonstrating pneumococci in URT, particularly in children with prior antimicrobial therapy. Antigen detection is a feasible method for studies on pneumococci in developing countries. For type-specific demonstration of S. pneumoniae, detection of pneumococcal antigen after an enrichment step proved a sensitive method that can be applied for epidemiologic study purposes, e.g., in vaccine trials, in areas without ready access to a good microbiology laboratory.
Determination of IC-bound pneumolysin IgG antibodies appears to be a useful method for species-specific diagnosis of pneumococcal infections. The results indicating pneumococcal aetiology in ALRI patients in this study compare well with the best results obtained by the use of lung aspirates. Increasing the number of serial samples improves the sensitivity of the assay, but even two samples provide more positive findings than other methods currently in routine use. Criteria of positivity need to be confirmed in subsequent larger studies with both healthy controls and patients with confirmed pneumococcal disease. It is also important to control the findings in patients with pneumonia of non-pneumococcal origin.
The novel enzyme immunoassay was shown to work well with enrichment culture samples, with an almost 100% sensitivity compared with the culture. Middle ear fluid samples were too diluted for the enzyme immunoassay method used, and only 74% sensitivity compared with culture was achieved. Provided that adequate samples can be obtained, the method will be a useful complement to the current laboratory methods used to diagnose pneumococcal disease.
With the existence of a broad spectrum of microbiological and immunological methods, it is imperative to seek international consensus for standard methods to demonstrate pneumococcus. Otherwise it is very difficult to compare results from different clinical studies. A WHO Working Group recently proposed a standard method for detecting upper respiratory carriage of pneumococcus, but a lot of work remains to be done in other areas of research on pneumococcal infections.
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Boost, Maureen Valerie. "Carriage and antibiotic resistance of 'Streptococcus pneumoniae' in Hong Kong." Thesis, University of Ulster, 2003. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.413291.
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Song, Lijie. "The third parties protection in carriage of goods by sea." Thesis, University of Southampton, 2018. https://eprints.soton.ac.uk/427155/.
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The Himalaya clause is a contractual device developed under common law to protect third parties employed by the carriers by extending benefits under the bill of lading to them. Since the invention of the clause, disputes have arisen in terms of their scope,interpretation and validity. These disputes largely impaired the efficiency of the clause. Although the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 (the "1999 Act") reforms the common law doctrine of privity of contract, the Act has always been regarded as inapplicable to the enforcement of terms other than the exclusion or limitation of liability clauses under the bill of lading by those third parties. Therefore, the Act does not appear to resolve all the difficulties left by the common law Himalaya clause approach. In response to the difficulties with the application of the Himalaya clauses, a new Himalaya clause revised by the International Group of P & I Clubs and BIMCO was incorporated into BIMCO's 2016 standard form of bills of lading, replacing the Himalaya clauses used in previous versions. Although the new clause was thought to have been widely used in bills of lading, charter parties and other marine contracts, the whole clause has not been fully incorporated into any shipping companies' own term sof carriage. Furthermore, the changes made by this new clause and the difficulties resolved by these modifications have not been examined. The aim of this thesis is to evaluate the effectiveness of the new clause under English law from the perspective of both the common law Himalaya clause approach and the 1999 Act and to suggest whether the shipping companies should adopt it or not. This thesis starts with the identification of difficulties regarding the satisfaction of requirements set out under the common law Himalaya clause approach. It then focuses on the conditions for a third party to enforce a term under the 1999 Act. More importantly, it will discuss whether the Act applies to other terms under the bill of lading, beyond just its exclusions and limitations. Subsequently, the thesis specifically discusses how the new clause makes sure that third parties could enforce the promise not to sue clause, arbitration clause and exclusive jurisdiction clause by virtue of both the 1999 Act and the common law Himalaya clause approach. Should the new clause fail in the end, the principle of sub-bailment on terms as an alternative approach will be discussed.
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Furney, Sheena Elizabeth. "Laboratory investigation of a load carriage task observed in forestry." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1008188.
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The objective of the present study was to investigate and compare the human responses to two load carriage tasks performed with three different load masses and on three different gradients. The task of carrying hydrogel in one hand was observed in a silviculture industry and crude physiological and perceptual responses were measured. This task was simulated in a laboratory setting together with a suggested intervention of backpack carriage. Eighteen conditions were established which consisted of the two modes of carriage and a combination of three load masses (9kg, 12kg and 15kg) and three gradients (5%, 10% and 15%). Twenty eight Rhodes University female students comprised the sample and the experimental procedures were conducted on a Quinton treadmill. Each participant was required to complete nine of the eighteen conditions which were each four minutes in duration. Postural changes were assessed using lateral and posterior digital images taken at the second and fourth minute and compression and shearing forces were estimated with the ErgolmagerTM Physiological responses (heart rate, ventilation and metabolic responses) were measured continuously with the Quark b² and perceptual responses ('central' and 'local' RPE) were measured every minute during the experimentation and body discomfort was rated at the completion of each condition. Overall responses revealed that hand carriage (146 bt.min⁻¹ , 25.09 mIO₂. kg-l.min⁻¹) was generally found to be more physiologically stressful than backpack carriage (130 bt.min⁻¹, 22.15 mIO₂.kg⁻¹ .min⁻¹) independent of load mass and gradient. Physiological responses were higher (113 bt.min-1 to 174 bt.min⁻¹ ) in responses to increasing gradient as opposed to increasing load mass (104 bt.min-1 to 153 bt.min⁻¹ ) for both backpack and hand carriage. Categorisation using the guidelines of Sanders and McCormick (1993) allowed for classification of conditions, with respect to physiological responses, into 'moderate', 'heavy' and 'very heavy' stress. For almost all of the physiological responses the majority of conditions which were classified as 'moderate' were backpack carriage conditions and the conditions classified as 'very heavy' were mostly hand carriage conditions. In terms of postural responses hand carriage resulted in more strain and greater compression and shearing forces on the spine. In terms of the compression forces increasing gradient had a greater affect on backpack carriage (681 N to 935 N) compared to hand carriage (570N to 793N). In contrast, increasing load mass had a larger affect on hand carriage postures and compression forces (751 N to 935N) in comparison to backpack carriage (723N to 780N). Shearing forces were found to be worse in hand carriage conditions overall. Although participants generally underrated perceived exertion in relation to cardiorespiratory responses, these perceptions revealed that backpack carriage, with a mean 'central' RPE of 12 compared to 11 for hand carriage, was somewhat preferred to hand carriage and that increasing gradient was perceived to be marginally more straining than increasing load mass.
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Kottler, Stephanie J. "Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA carriage in three populations." Diss., Columbia, Mo. : University of Missouri-Columbia, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10355/6066.
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Thesis (M.S.)--University of Missouri-Columbia, 2008.The entire dissertation/thesis text is included in the research.pdf file; the official abstract appears in the short.pdf file (which also appears in the research.pdf); a non-technical general description, or public abstract, appears in the public.pdf file. "December 2008" Includes bibliographical references.
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Metuge, Denning N. "Carriage of goods by sea - from Hague to Rotterdam: safer waters." Thesis, Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10948/d1011561.
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The back bone of international trade has always been international transport. Without good transport networks, the movement of goods and services from one frontier to another would be an uphill task, and would greatly hinder development in international trade. The impact of such poor transport networks would reflect negatively on economies that rely on international trade for the growth of their nations. Nevertheless, perfect transport networks would be useless if the performance of the business of carriage was not regulated by a law developed to meet the standards established by time, and that would regulate the relationship of the parties under contracts of carriage, mainly the carrier, consignor and consignee, so as to ensure certainty and equality in the allocation of risks between the parties thereunder. This research focuses on the carriage of goods by sea. Like most other modes of transport, one of the major issues that arises in the business of carriage of goods by sea is the conflict between the carrier, consignor and consignee, with regards to the allocation of risk in the carriage. Over the years, early rules that were developed to regulate the relationship of the parties under contracts of carriage of goods by sea placed the carrier in a dominant position over the consignor. The carrier issued a standard bill of lading which exempted him from almost all liability for damage or loss of the goods in his care. The consignors and bona fide third parties, not satisfied with the terms of carriage contracts brought a lot of pressure to bear on their governments to enact legislation protecting their interests in the transaction. The United States of America were the first to pass such national law revising the position of the parties under contracts of carriage. In 1893 the United States of America passed the Harter Act. This Act aimed at imposing limits of liability on the carrier to which no derogation could be brought. However, this was a dangerous precedence which was going to hinder international trade rather than improve on it, as different nations developing local legislation on carriage meant conflict of laws. In order to avoid the extensive nationalisation of carriage laws, the international maritime community set to develop rules that would regulate carriage by sea. Over the years convention has succeeded convention such that today four international regimes (The Hague Rules, Hague-Visby Rules, Hamburg Rules and Rotterdam Rules), exist regulating carriage of goods by sea. This research takes an in-depth look at these regimes that were developed to regulate carriage by sea, and the author aims to identify a particular regime that meets the standards of modern day practice of carriage of goods, and advocate for the ratification of this regime, to the exclusion of all others so as to foster uniformity, certainty and equality in the business of carriage of goods by sea.
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Doan, Jonathan E. B. "Development of a performance-based ranking method for load carriage systems." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1998. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/tape17/PQDD_0007/MQ31198.pdf.
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O'Neill, M. "Carriage with compassion : an ethnographic study of a Welsh ambulance service." Thesis, Swansea University, 2000. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.638352.
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The ambulance service through one of the most visible areas of health care provision is also one of the least researched. This study presents an analysis to how members of this particular group manage their occupational identity in the wider social milieu. By an examination of the cultural rules of the organisation and the implications of both history and occupational relations, this study provides a holistic examination of how such identity is managed and maintained on the various stages that ambulance workers perform their daily working activities. As will be explained in the study, during the past ten years there have been many developments in ambulance provision in the UK, a central one of which has been the organisation now not only provides transport for the sick and injured but also active medical care. One consequences of this changing role is a nascent "professional" occupational identity, which has to negotiate its position in relation to other "professional" groups. The main findings of the research were that the organisation was characterised by its large spatially spread out nature, which had implications for the development of multi organisational sub-cultures, which, in turn, had ramifications for occupational identity. In order for ambulance workers to manage such identity in the wider milieu they need to draw on occupational classifications that exist in society. The study also presents an analysis of the classificatory systems that staff utilise to address the contingencies of their working environment, which it is argued other studies in this field have failed to analyse sufficiently.
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Randle, I. P. M. "The development of a model of human responses to load carriage." Thesis, University of Surrey, 1988. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.233178.
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Papachristopoulou-Araujo, Chryssi. "Impact of paperless transactions in the carriage of goods by sea." Thesis, University of Bristol, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.297884.
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Sarkisyan, Inna. "Přeprava nebezpečného nákladu v podmínkách společnosti Schenker." Master's thesis, Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze, 2009. http://www.nusl.cz/ntk/nusl-18641.
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The diploma thesis deals with carriage of dangerous goods by road, defines and describes main activities connected with this kind of transportation as they are presented in European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road. The theoretical findings are then applied to the activities of company SCHENKER spol. s r.o. concerning the carriage of dangerous goods by road.
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Usuf, Effua Abigail. "The introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine into the Gambia : carriage and costs." Thesis, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (University of London), 2012. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.590562.
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Othman, Che Puan. "A simulation study of speed and capacity of rural single carriage roads." Thesis, Cardiff University, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.735545.
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Naji, Alaa A. "Islamic Fiqh and the contract of international carriage of passengers by air." Thesis, McGill University, 2001. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=33056.
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GOD says in the Holy Qur'aan "O' people, I have created you from a single pair of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes that ye may know each other. Verily the most honored of you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous of you..." (Holy Qur'aan, 49:13).This thesis is laid down in accordance with GOD's order to connect civilizations with each other and to benefit from each other's experience and knowledge toward a much better future for humanity.
The thesis tries to reflect upon the opinions of Islamic Fiqh with regard to the contract of international carriage of passengers by air and e-ticketing in a manner that is understandable to both Fiqh oriented and Western Law oriented readers. Therefore, it has been designed to include three major Parts where the first introduces the Western Law oriented reader to Islamic Fiqh. The Second Part introduces the Fiqh Oriented reader to the world of tickets and travel documents. Finally, the third chapter concentrates on the issue of electronic ticketing. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
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Hill, Dorothea M. C. "The genomic epidemiology of hyperinvasive and carriage-associated lineages of neisseria meningitidis." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2015. https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:0ba44c7d-200b-4075-aba3-0cd7eb2ad53d.
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Neisseria meningitidis is the bacterial pathogen responsible for meningococcal disease: 10% of cases result in death. Endemic disease is sporadic, with fewer than three cases per 100,000 population, but elevated incidence also occurs during hyperendemic and epidemic periods. Successful control of meningococcal disease is achieved via immunisation against capsular polysaccharides, however, no vaccine exists against serogroup B polysaccharide due to poor immunogenicity and safety concerns. Recently, 'serogroup B-substitute vaccines' containing sub-capsular antigens have been developed: one such vaccine is to be introduced to UK infant immunization schedules from September 2015. Meningococcal populations are genetically diverse and arranged into clonal complexes that fluctuate in geotemporal prevalence. It is therefore essential to survey meningococcal populations in given locations to understand molecular evolution following vaccine introduction. The advent of whole-genome sequencing presents an opportunity to investigate meningococcal populations at high genetic resolution. This thesis introduces the MRF Meningococcus Genome Library, a comprehensive collection of WGS data from national surveillance of meningococcal disease in England and Wales between the 2010/11-2012/13 epidemiological years. The utility of WGS data in routine surveillance was investigated. Structuring of genomic variation revealed population-level lineages analogous to clonal complexes. Prevalent hyperinvasive lineages were composed of immunologically distinct sub-lineages that, when linked with patient data, were age-group associated: vaccines may affect age-groups differently. Sub-lineage specific core-genome and epigenetic DNA methylation variation was primarily in metabolic loci. Finally, genomic variation of an epidemic clone, generated by recombination, was great, and epidemiological data remains indispensible for investigating transmission. These findings provide insight into meningococcal evolution and are of importance in understanding the effects of new vaccines.
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Distiller, G. B. "Nonlinear mixed effects modeling of gametocyte carriage in patients with uncomplicated malaria." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/4378.
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Hamaluba, Mainga. "Streptococcus pneumoniae : nasopharyngeal carriage and vaccine studies in the UK and Nepal." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 2015. http://digitool.abdn.ac.uk:80/webclient/DeliveryManager?pid=230502.
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Streptococcus pneumoniae is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in children under 5. Low-income countries are disproportionally affected and data in these settings are lacking. Effective strategies to control disease include infant immunisation with pneumococcal protein-polysaccharide conjugate vaccines. However, ongoing surveillance of carriage and disease are important to understand the impact of vaccination within communities. This thesis evaluated nasopharyngeal (NP) carriage in 3 generations, following introduction of the 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) in the UK. NP carriage was also compared between rural and urban Nepalese children and a novel method of delayed culture and transport was assessed. Finally, the immunogenicity of a 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine administered in a 2-dose priming schedule without a booster was compared to a 3-dose priming schedule with a booster in Nepalese infants. Key findings include carriage rates in UK children being similar to pre-PCV7 (7 valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) carriage rates at 47% with low carriage rates in seen in adults. PCV7 serotypes accounted for 1.5% of carriage isolates in children, 0% in parents and 15.4% in older adults. In Nepalese children carriage was higher in a rural (69.2%) compared to an urban setting (40.9%) and delayed culture and transport using silica desiccant packets (SDP) provided a reliable, albeit underestimated, estimate of carriage. Finally this author demonstrated that following primary immunisation and boosting, there was no difference in immune responses to serotypes 1, 5 and 14 with a 2 dose priming schedule compared to a 3-dose schedule. At 2-4 years of age a significantly higher proportion of vaccinees in the 2+1 group had ≥0·2µg/mL IgG for serotypes 1, 5, 6B and 18C compared to vaccinees in the 3+0 group.
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Scales, J. "Physiological and biomechanical analysis of prolonged and repeated bouts of load carriage." Thesis, Canterbury Christ Church University, 2017. http://create.canterbury.ac.uk/16942/.
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Previous work has attempted to define the physiological determinants of load carriage over a single day of load carriage, primary aims of this thesis were to determine the physiological and biomechanical changes as a result of load carriage and to explore the causes of these changes during load carriage and to explore these changes over multiple days of activity. A secondary aim was to explore individual differences in performance and possible mechanisms for this. Chapter 4 observed acute changes in vertical ground reaction force, supported by effect sizes which suggests individual differences in performances (loading peak dCohens=1.66 and dGlass 4.49). These findings were supported by no change in first negative rate which suggests increased knee flexion is occurring to mitigate the effect of the load. Differences in anteroposterior ground reaction force variables suggest that changes in gait may affect movement economy. Energy expenditure was shown to be correlated to a number of strength variables, such as ankle plantarflexion (r=-0.47) and knee extensors(r=-0.46). Similar variables were studied as a result of 2 hours treadmill load carriage in chapter 5. An additional variable was the study of torque at specific joint angles in addition to peak torque. Drift was observed for V̇O2 (68.93%). The torque curves showed significant reduction for load carriage, around the optimum muscle lengths for force (Knee extension at 180°s-1: 95°-125°, knee flexion at 180°s-1: 95°-125°) with findings supported by the peak torque values, suggesting there is no shift in muscle function. These findings were supported by associations between knee extension neuromuscular function scores, ankle plantarflexion neuromuscular function scores and energy cost variables which suggest that reductions in neuromuscular function may account for the increased energy cost. Chapter 6 observed load carriage on repeated days. The chapter observed that energy cost did not recover to baseline 24 hours post day one (4.41%). Further increases in energy cost and V̇O2 were observed post day two for energy expenditure and V̇O2 which suggest that a cumulative increase in energy cost as a result of load carriage occurred. Knee extension at 60°s-1 and 0°s-1 was shown to not recover 24 hours post day one, these variables were shown to show increased reduction for post day two and day three. Similar findings were observed within the ankle plantarflexors but no significant changes were observed for knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion. Variables were also studied in a field setting during a >12hour load carriage task by Greek Special Forces soldiers. This study observed increased Medial and lateral deviations of the centre of pressure which suggests ankle instability even during unloaded walking as a result of load carriage. Large reductions were observed in vertical jump height and power as a result of the task, however this did not correlate to any biomechanical findings.
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Kandasamy, Rama. "Pneumococcal carriage and disease amongst children from the United Kingdom and Nepal." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2017. https://ora.ox.ac.uk/objects/uuid:482815f4-7c50-4077-8c62-de40dfc7b88a.
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Pneumococcal disease continues to be responsible for an extraordinary amount of human death and disability around the world. In particular, the burden of disease weighs greatest upon those children who reside in low and low-middle income countries of the world. It must also be recognised however, that the continued emergence of disease due to pneumococcal serotypes not covered by pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, due to serotype replacement, is an unfolding issue which is increasingly impacting upon the health of children in middle and high income countries. In the short and medium term work needs to be focused on achieving the greatest benefits from the intelligent use of currently available pneumococcal conjugate vaccines. Whilst the long term vision towards combating pneumococcal disease needs to focus on better understanding the underlying biology, particularly through the use of contemporary technologies. As an insight into the above mentioned issues faced by resource-rich countries, this thesis aims to describe the dynamics of pneumococcal carriage and disease in the United Kingdom following the introduction of the thirteen-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) to the infant immunisation schedule. From the perspective of a resource limited setting, this thesis also aims to utilise the population of pneumococci collected from amongst Nepalese children prior to PCV introduction to; determine the pneumococcal serotype distribution, determine the utility of a molecular diagnostic tool for identifying pneumococcal pneumonia, determine the molecular epidemiology of pneumococci in this population, and determine the antibiotic resistance patterns of pneumococci in this population. Finally, with the intention of exploring the overall diversity of pneumococcus and how this may be influenced by PCV introduction, this thesis aims to also describe the global population structure of pneumococci prior to PCV introduction. Key findings of this thesis include; the differential effect of PCV13 on serotypes 3 and 19A, and the rise of non-vaccine type disease amongst children from the United Kingdom, the characterisation of carriage prior to PCV10 introduction and the high rate of multiple serotype carriage amongst Nepalese children, the identification of host immune and antibiotic selective pressures on pneumococcal surface protein A (pspA), pneumococcal surface protein C (pspC), and penicillin binding proteins, the almost unchecked rise of antimicrobial resistance amongst pneumococci in Nepal, and the description of the global pneumococcal population prior to PCV introduction, which shows that some strains have characteristics which facilitate spread across geographic regions. These findings highlight the need for further studies investigating how PCVs could be better applied in United Kingdom infants and children in order to try and minimise the observed differential effects. The identification of the pneumococcal surface proteins which are under selective pressure (pspA and pspC) highlights these proteins as promising antigens for inclusion in a novel vaccine that would provide an avenue for preventing pneumococcal disease using a non-serotype specific approach. The resistance patterns of pneumococci in Nepal indicate that further steps both from a surveillance and policy stand point need to be taken to monitor and curb pneumococcal antimicrobial resistance in Nepal. Finally, it is clear that ongoing surveillance of pneumococcal carriage and disease is needed both in the United Kingdom and Nepal. Of most interest will be the post-PCV effect on the pneumococcal population in Nepal.
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Krikler, S. J. "Carriage and attempted eradication of Staphylococcus aureus in an isolated community in Antarctica." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 1985. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.384403.
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This study was conducted on twenty-eight men at Halley Base, Antarctica, in total physical isolation from all other human contact from beginning March to end December 1983. Aims of study: observe S. aureus carriage in this community; monitor effects on carriage of topical antibacterials. Initially, weekly nasal, axillary and perineal swabs taken. From week 24 throat swabs taken from known nasal carriers. Two courses of antibacterials given to all subjects, regardless of carrier status. Two further courses given to known carriers. Eight subjects consistently carried own phage type throughout study, despite application of antibacterials. Eradication appeared successful in two, possibly three individuals, but after significant interval (39 weeks in one) S. aureus found of phage type either not isolated before in study, or not found for prolonged period. May reflect inadequacy of conventional sampling methods. S. aureus in throat of nine of twelve nasal carriers. No consistent skin carriers. Seven subjects intermittent nasal carriers. Four probably acquired strain from consistent carriers. Approximately 90% of stored isolates revived for phage on return to UK. Two consistent carriers and one intermittent carrier yielded non-typable strains. Alternative typing method developed. All phage types indistinguishable by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) of whole cell extracts. Insufficient protein in supernatants for PAGE. Western Blotting of supernatants using normal human plasma as anti-staphylococcal antibody source distinguished between different phage types, but non-typable strains still indistinguishable. Conclusions: 1) Individuals' carrier status stable over many months. Living in proximity to persistent carriers, some individuals never gave positive swab. 2) Throat may be significant carriage site. 3) Topical antibacterial application unlikely to eradicate S. aureus from nose, particularly in persistent carriers. 4) Apparent eradication may represent suppression. 5) Western Blotting of culture supernatants may provide alternative typing method, also information on strains of direct clinical significance.
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Lamont, Richard John. "Antigenic, taxonomic and epidemiological studies on Listeria monocytogenes and related species." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 1985. http://digitool.abdn.ac.uk/R?func=search-advanced-go&find_code1=WSN&request1=AAIU363074.
Full textAbstract:
Listeria monocytogenes and the closely related species L ivanovii, L innocua, L welshimeri and L seeligeri are Gram-positive diphtheroid-like bacteria widespread in nature. L monocytogenes causes human infections infrequently, usually during the perinatal period and in immunocompromised adults. L innocua, L welshimeri and L seeligeri are non pathogenic and L ivanovii is usually associated with ovine abortions. Serological diagnosis of infection with L monocytogenes is at present unsatisfactory, mainly because of extensive serological cross-reactions with other bacterial pathogens. As a first step in the development of a specific serological assay, monoclonal antibodies directed against L monocytogenes were produced by fusion of a myeloma cell line with splenic lymphocytes from mice immunized with an ultrasound/EDTA extract of the organism. Eighteen hybridoma clones were selected all of which secreted antibody strongly reactive with all Listeria species, except L denitrificans, but not with Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus faecalis, Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. These putative Listeria-specific antibodies, which show at least 4 different antigen specificities in an immunoblot, should prove helpful in the identification and purification of diagnostically useful reagents. The taxonomic relationships of L monocytogenes, L ivanovii, L innocua, L welshimeri and L seeligeri are not fully understood. To investigate their relationships, whole-cell proteins of these species were examined by SDS-PAGE. The polypeptide profiles of L monocytogenes (40 strains), L ivanovii (5 strains), L innocua (4 strains), L welshimeri (1 strain) and L seeligeri (4 strains) were all very similar. Although some differences between the species were observed, they were not greater than the level of intraspecies variation. The classification of these 5 species may, therefore, require further examination. Foetal infection with L monocytogenes may originate from carriage of the organism in the GI tract, the lower genital tract and the pharynx. To investigate the effect of pregnancy on listerial carriage, faecal samples along with cervico-vaginal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected from 54 healthy pregnant women and 60 healthy non-pregnant women, and examined for listeriae by cold-enrichment and repeated subculture on selective media containing acriflavin, nalidixic acid and potassium thiocyanate. L monocytogenes was isolated from the faeces of 1 pregnant woman (2%) and 2 non-pregnant women (3.4%). L innocua was isolated from the faeces of 1 pregnant woman (2%) and 1 non-pregnant woman (1.7%). L seeligeri was isolated from the faeces of 1 non-pregnant woman (1.7%). No listeriae were isolated from cervico-vaginal or oropharyngeal samples. The results indicate that pregnancy does not predispose to colonization, and thus infection, with L monocytogenes, and that faecal, but not cervico-vaginal or oropharyngeal, carriage of pathogenic and non-pathogenic Listeria species occurs in a small percentage of healthy women.