bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Czech Balneotherapy
Authors: Speier Amy
Published: June 2010

This essay exemplifies a particular approach to the field of health tourism, whereby the anthropology of tourism and medical anthropology can be used in conjunction. The serious business of healing is not usually associated with the pleasures of relaxation; however, Czech spas have historically been sites of both healing and leisure for visitors. Building on the suggestion of Veijola and Jokinen (1994), the body of the tourist is made the centre of this study. The bodies of patient-tourists at Czech health spas undergo various healing regimens, and their bodies signify a negotiation of national and cultural identities. Just as Bunzl (2000) considers bodies as constituting European cultural landscapes, this essay considers the ways in which German patient bodies at Czech health spas constitute a changing national, political and cultural relationship at a 'border' of Europe.
Across, Along and Around the Öresund Region
Authors: Idvall Markus
Published: June 2010

The article deals with the question of how people as individuals live and simultaneously direct a border region in different ways. How are ordinary inhabitants' tactical choices and manoeuvring movements related to the organised space of two nation states and their mutual borderland? What is the analytical gain, if the borderland is a seascape with dwellers that are more maritime than territorial in their practices and views? Using Ingold's perspective of seafaring versus shipping and aspects of Deleuze/Guattari's nomadology, a cultural analysis is performed on a number of interviews with pleasure boaters in the Swedish-Danish Öresund Region. The striated and linear space of the nation state was found to be fundamental for how people live the border region. However, by its stress on heterogeneity and unpredictability the smooth space of wayfaring inhabitants is also a crucial factor for understanding how border regions come into being and change.
Historical Memory, International Conflict, and Japanese Textbook Controversies in Three Epochs
Authors: Nozaki Yoshiko , Selden Mark
Published: June 2010

Japan's right-wing nationalists have launched three major attacks on school textbooks over the second half of the twentieth century. Centered on the treatment of colonialism and war, the attacks surfaced in 1955, the late 1970s, and the mid-1990s. This article examines three moments in light of Japanese domestic as well as regional and global political contexts to gain insight into the persistent problem of the Pacific War in historical memory and its refraction in textbook treatments. There are striking similarities as well as critical di erences in the ways the attacks on textbooks recurred and in the conditions of political instability.
Myths and Maps of Europe
Authors: Bottici Chiara , Challand Benoît
Published: June 2010

Both the name Europe and the political entity Europe are relatively recent inventions. Although the name can be traced back as far as 700 BCE, the term in its contemporary meaning only became widespread after 1700 CE. The political entity is an even more recent construct. It was only with the first steps toward European construction in the second half of the twentieth century that the contours of a political community bearing this name emerged, even if its borders were still far from clearly defined. Yet even with the existence of today’s European Union (EU) the meaning of the term remains highly contested. Does Europe mean only the EU? Is it a geographical or a political entity? Where are its boundaries? How did these boundaries come about?
A New Collaborative Knowledge-Based Approach for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Canada-Bago Joaquin , Fernandez-Prieto Jose Angel , Gadeo-Martos Manuel Angel , Velasco Juan Ramón
Published: June 2010

This work presents a new approach for collaboration among sensors in Wireless Sensor Networks. These networks are composed of a large number of sensor nodes with constrained resources: limited computational capability, memory, power sources, etc. Nowadays, there is a growing interest in the integration of Soft Computing technologies into Wireless Sensor Networks. However, little attention has been paid to integrating Fuzzy Rule-Based Systems into collaborative Wireless Sensor Networks. The objective of this work is to design a collaborative knowledge-based network, in which each sensor executes an adapted Fuzzy Rule-Based System, which presents significant advantages such as: experts can define interpretable knowledge with uncertainty and imprecision, collaborative knowledge can be separated from control or modeling knowledge and the collaborative approach may support neighbor sensor failures and communication errors. As a real-world application of this approach, we demonstrate a collaborative modeling system for pests, in which an alarm about the development of olive tree fly is inferred. The results show that knowledge-based sensors are suitable for a wide range of applications and that the behavior of a knowledge-based sensor may be modified by inferences and knowledge of neighbor sensors in order to obtain a more accurate and reliable output.
Arrhythmia ECG Noise Reduction by Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Chang Kang-Ming
Published: June 2010

A novel noise filtering algorithm based on ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) is proposed to remove artifacts in electrocardiogram (ECG) traces. Three noise patterns with different power—50 Hz, EMG, and base line wander – were embedded into simulated and real ECG signals. Traditional IIR filter, Wiener filter, empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and EEMD were used to compare filtering performance. Mean square error between clean and filtered ECGs was used as filtering performance indexes. Results showed that high noise reduction is the major advantage of the EEMD based filter, especially on arrhythmia ECGs.
Polystichum munitum (Dryopteridaceae) varies geographically in its capacity to absorb fog water by foliar uptake within the redwood forest ecosystem
Authors: Limm Emily B. , Dawson Todd E.
Published: June 2010

• Premise of the study: Fog provides a critical water resource to plants around the world. In the redwood forest ecosystem of northern California, plants depend on fog absorbed through foliar uptake to stay hydrated during the rainless summer. In this study, we identified regions within the redwood ecosystem where the fern Polystichum munitum canopy most effectively absorbs fog drip that reaches the forest floor.

• Methods: We measured the foliar uptake capacity of P. munitum fronds at seven sites along 700 km of the redwood forest ecosystem. We quantified the canopy cover of P. munitum at each site and estimated how much water the fern canopy can acquire aboveground through fog interception and absorption.

• Key results: Throughout the ecosystem, nocturnal foliar uptake increased the leaf water content of P. munitum by 7.2%, and we estimated that the P. munitum canopy can absorb 5 ± 3% (mean ± SE) of intercepted fog precipitation. Strikingly, P. munitum had the highest foliar uptake capacity in the center of the ecosystem and may absorb 10% more of the fog its canopy intercepts in this region relative to other regions studied. Conversely, P. munitum had no foliar uptake capacity in the southern end of the ecosystem.

• Conclusions: This study shows the first evidence that foliar uptake varies within species at the landscape scale. Our findings suggest that the P. munitum at the southern tip of the redwood ecosystem may suffer most from low summertime water availability because it had no potential to acquire fog as an aboveground water subsidy.
Modelación empírica de flotación en columna a escala piloto
Authors: Simpson J. , Jordán D. , Cifuentes G. , Morales A. , Briones L.
Published: June 2010

El área Procemin I, del Centro Minero Metalúrgico Tecnología y Servicio (CIMM T&S), ubicado en Santiago de Chile, cuenta con una completa planta piloto de molienda y flotación en la cual se desarrollan experiencias de optimización de circuitos, diseño de plantas, obtención de parámetros de operación, entre otras cosas. Uno de los equipos que posee la planta piloto es una columna de flotación piloto, con un alto nivel de automatización. Una de las problemáticas presentadas para la operación de la columna de flotación es no lograr tomar decisiones de operación sobre la base de los resultados metalúrgicos que se puedan obtener. El desarrollo de modelos matemáticos que permitan estimar los resultados metalúrgicos (ley de concentrado, ley de relaves, razón de enriquecimiento y recuperación) en función de las variables operacionales que sean manipulables busca entregarle mayor libertad al operador y al ingeniero de procesos para lograr la sintonización operacional de la columna. El método empleado para el desarrollo de los modelos fue Stepwise Regression (Regresión por Pasos) considerando relaciones empíricas entre variables operacionales y los resultados experimentales. Todos los modelos presentaron sobre un 90 % de exactitud, salvo uno de ellos que fue sobre 70 %.
Criterios de predicción de inestabilidades plásticas en procesos de conformado en caliente. (Parte II. Caracterización de la fluencia plástica de un acero microaleado de medio carbono usando criterios continuos y fenomenológicos)
Authors: Al Omar A. , Alcelay I. , Prado J. M.
Published: June 2010

En el estudio de los procesos de conformado en caliente es muy importante conocer la interacción entre el comportamiento microestructural y los parámetros de control del proceso de deformación, tales como temperatura, velocidad de deformación, deformación, etc. En las últimas décadas, los mapas de procesado han sido elaborados para diseñar, controlar y optimizar la deformación en caliente de varios materiales metálicos. En el presente trabajo, con el fin de estudiar la conformabilidad en caliente de un acero microaleado de medio carbono, durante ensayos de compresión en caliente, se presenta un estudio comparativo entre dos tipos de mapas de procesado construidos usando criterios termodinámicos continuos y criterios fenomenológicos. El análisis de los mapas de procesado indica que el acero estudiado no sufre ningún tipo de inestabilidad plástica. Sin embargo, los mapas correspondientes a la deformación ε = 0,6 revelan la existencia de un dominio de recristalización dinámica, considerado como el dominio más eficiente dentro de la región segura de procesado. Este dominio está centrado a 1.150 °C y 10 s–1. El estudio comparativo de los resultados obtenidos muestra la diferencia entre las posiciones de los distintos dominios de deformación plástica según el criterio de inestabilidad usado.
Future Challenges of Mobile Learning in Web-Based Instruction
Authors: Jones Rochelle , Butler Chandre , McCauley-Bush Pamela
Published: June 2010

Mobile learning is becoming an extension of distance learning, providing a channel for students to learn, communicate, and access educational material outside of the traditional classroom environment. Because students are becoming more digitally mobile, understanding how mobile devices can be integrated into existing learning environments is advantageous however, the lack of social cues between professors and students may be an issue. Understanding metrics of usability that address the concern of student connectedness as well as defining and measuring human engagement in mobile learning students is needed to promote the use of mobile devices in educational environments.
IL-17 Is Necessary for Host Protection against Acute-Phase Trypanosoma cruzi Infection
Authors: Miyazaki Yoshiyuki , Hamano Shinjiro , Wang Seng , Shimanoe Yohei , Iwakura Yoichiro , Yoshida Hiroki
Published: June 2010

IL-17A is a key cytokine that induces inflammatory responses through the organized production of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, TNF-α, and GM-CSF, and induces neutrophil migration. The roles of IL-17A in infection of intracellular protozoan parasites have not been elucidated, although augmented immune responses by IL-17A are important for the resolution of some bacterial and fungal infections. Therefore, we experimentally infected IL-17A–deficient (IL-17A−/−) mice with Trypanosoma cruzi. IL-17A−/− mice had a lower survival rate and prolonged worse parasitemia compared with control C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) mice postinfection. In the infected IL-17A−/− mice, multiple organ failure was observed compared with WT mice, as reflected by the marked increase in serologic markers of tissue injury, such as aspartate aminotransferase, which resulted in increased mortality of IL-17A−/− mice. Expression of cytokines, such as IFN-γ, IL-6, and TNF-α, was lower in liver-infiltrating cells from the IL-17A−/− mice compared with WT mice. A similar defect was observed in the expression of neutrophil enzymes, such as myeloperoxidase and lipoxygenase, whereas cellular infiltration into the infected tissues was not affected by IL-17A deficiency. These results suggested that the efficient activation of immune-related cells critical for the killing of T. cruzi was impaired in the absence of IL-17A, resulting in the greater susceptibility of those mice to T. cruzi infection. From these results, we conclude that IL-17A is important for the resolution of T. cruzi infection.
T Cell Epitope Specificity and Pathogenesis of Mouse Hepatitis Virus-1–Induced Disease in Susceptible and Resistant Hosts
Authors: Khanolkar Aaruni , Fulton Ross B. , Epping Lecia L. , Pham Nhat-Long , Tifrea Dilea , Varga Steven M. , Harty John T.
Published: June 2010

Intranasal mouse hepatitis virus-1 (MHV-1) infection of susceptible mouse strains mimics some important pathologic features observed in the lungs of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronavirus–infected humans. The pathogenesis of SARS remains poorly understood, although increasing evidence suggests that immunopathology could play an important role. We previously reported that the adaptive immune response plays an important protective role in MHV-1–infected resistant B6 mice and that both CD4 and CD8 T cells play a significant role in the development of morbidity and lung pathology following intranasal MHV-1 infection of susceptible C3H/HeJ and A/J mice. In this study, we have identified novel CD4 and CD8 epitopes in MHV-1–infected susceptible and resistant strains of mice. Susceptible C3H/HeJ mice mount robust and broad MHV-1–specific CD4 T cell responses, whereas in resistant B6 mice, Ag-specific CD8 T cell responses dominate. We also show that previously immunized susceptible C3H/HeJ mice do not develop any morbidity and are completely protected following a lethal-dose MHV-1 challenge despite mounting only a modest secondary T cell response. Finally, we demonstrate that the resistance displayed by B6 mice is not solely accounted for by the elaboration of a broad and vigorous MHV-1–specific CD8 T cell response, as MHV-1 infection of C3.SW-H2b/SnJ mice, which mount an equally robust CD8 T cell response of the same specificity, is still associated with significant morbidity. Thus, identification of novel CD4 and CD8 T cell epitopes for MHV-1 permitted high-resolution analyses of pulmonary T cell responses in a mouse model of SARS.
Posttranscriptional Silencing of VβDJβCβ Genes Contributes to TCRβ Allelic Exclusion in Mammalian Lymphocytes
Authors: Steinel Natalie C. , Brady Brenna L. , Carpenter Andrea C. , Yang-Iott Katherine S. , Bassing Craig H.
Published: June 2010

Feedback inhibition of V(D)J recombination enforces Ag receptor allelic exclusion in mammalian lymphocytes. Yet, in-frame VβDJβ exons can assemble on both alleles in human and mouse αβ T lineage cells. To elucidate mechanisms that enforce TCRβ allelic exclusion in such cells, we analyzed Vβ expression and rearrangement in mice containing a functional Vβ14DJβ1.5Cβ1 gene (Vβ14NT) and/or Vβ8.2DJβ1.1Cβ1 transgene (Vβ8Tg). The majority of Vβ14NT and Vβ8Tg αβ T lineage cells expressed only Vβ14+ or Vβ8+ TCRβ-chains, respectively, and lacked Vβ rearrangements on wild-type TCRβ loci. However, endogenous Vβ rearrangements and αβ T lineage cells expressing endogenous Vβs from wild-type alleles alone or with the prerearranged Vβ in cell surface TCRβ-chains were observed in Vβ14NT and Vβ8Tg mice. Although nearly all Vβ8Tg:Vβ14NT thymocytes and splenic αβ T cells expressed Vβ8+ TCRβ-chains, only half of these lymphocytes expressed Vβ14+ TCRβ-chains, even though similar steady-state levels of Vβ14NT mRNA were expressed in Vβ8+Vβ14+ and Vβ8+Vβ14− populations. Our data demonstrated that posttranscriptional silencing of functionally assembled endogenous VβDJβCβ genes can enforce TCRβ allelic exclusion and reveal another mechanism that contributes to the development of lymphocytes with monospecific Ag receptors.
Regulation of Th2 Responses and Allergic Inflammation through Bystander Activation of CD8+ T Lymphocytes in Early Life
Authors: Dubois Aurore , Deruytter Nathalie , Adams Brigitte , Kanda Akira , Delbauve Sandrine , Fleury Sebastien , Torres David , François Angélique , Pétein Michel , Goldman Michel , Dombrowicz David , Flamand Véronique
Published: June 2010

Th2-biased immune responses characterizing neonates may influence the later onset of allergic disease. The contribution of regulatory T cell populations in the prevention of Th2-driven pathologies in early life is poorly documented. We investigated the potential of CD8+ T cells stimulated at birth with alloantigens to modulate the development of allergic airway inflammation. Newborn mice were immunized with semiallogeneic splenocytes or dendritic cells (DCs) and exposed at the adult stage to OVA aeroallergens. DC-immunized animals displayed a strong Th1 and Tc1/Tc2 alloantigen-specific response and were protected against the development of the allergic reaction with reduced airway hyperresponsiveness, mucus production, eosinophilia, allergen-specific IgE and IgG1, and reduction of lung IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 mRNA levels. By contrast, splenocyte-immunized mice displayed a Th2 and a weak Tc2 alloantigen-specific response and were more sensitive to the development of the allergen-specific inflammation compared with mice unexposed at birth to alloantigens. DC-immunized animals displayed an important increase in the percentage of IFN-γ–producing CD8+CD44high, CD8+CD62Lhigh, and CD8+CD25+ subsets. Adoptive transfers of CD8+ T cells from semiallogeneic DC-immunized animals to adult β2m-deficient animals prevented the development of allergic response, in particular IgE, IL-4, and IL-13 mRNA production in an IFN-γ–dependent manner, whereas transfers of CD8+ T cells from semiallogeneic splenocyte-immunized mice intensified the lung IL-4 and IL-10 mRNA level and the allergen-specific IgE. These findings demonstrated that neonatal induction of regulatory CD8+ T cells was able to modulate key parameters of later allergic sensitization in a bystander manner, without recognition of MHC class I molecules.
IFN-γ Inhibits IL-4–Induced Type 2 Cytokine Expression by CD8 T Cells In Vivo and Modulates the Anti-Tumor Response
Authors: Apte Simon H. , Groves Penny , Olver Stuart , Baz Adriana , Doolan Denise L. , Kelso Anne , Kienzle Norbert
Published: June 2010

Activation of naive CD8 T cells in vitro in the presence of IL-4 induces type 2 cytokine expression, loss of CD8 expression, and reduced cytolytic potential. This represents a major shift from the canonical phenotype of effector CD8 T cells. It has not been established, however, whether IL-4 can induce comprehensive type 2 cytokine expression by CD8 T cells in vivo, nor whether the effects of IL-4 on type 2 cytokine production by CD8 T cells can be inhibited by IFN-γ. Furthermore, disparate results have been reported regarding the anti-tumor ability of type 2 polarized effector CD8 T cells, and the effects of IFN-γ in this respect remain unknown. To address these questions, wild-type or IFN-γ–deficient OVA-specific CD8+ T cells were activated in RAG-2−/− γc−/− recipients with control or IL-4–expressing OVA+ tumor cells, and then transferred to secondary recipients for tumor challenge. Tumor-derived IL-4 induced the expression of type 2 cytokines and the transcription factor GATA-3 by responding CD8 T cells while reducing their CD8 coreceptor expression and ability to eliminate a secondary tumor challenge. Each of these effects of IL-4 was exaggerated in IFN-γ–deficient, compared with wild-type, CD8 T cells. The results demonstrate that endogenous IFN-γ counteracts the induction of type 2 cytokines and the downregulation of both CD8 coreceptor levels and the anti-tumor response in CD8 T cells exposed to IL-4 during activation in vivo. These findings may explain the anomalies in the reported functional phenotype of type 2 polarized CD8 T cells.
Understanding Latent Tuberculosis: A Moving Target
Authors: Lin Philana Ling , Flynn JoAnne L.
Published: June 2010

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a threat to the health of people worldwide. Infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis can result in active TB or, more commonly, latent infection. Latently infected persons, of which there are estimated to be ~2 billion in the world, represent an enormous reservoir of potential reactivation TB, which can spread to other people. The immunology of TB is complex and multifaceted. Identifying the immune mechanisms that lead to control of initial infection and prevent reactivation of latent infection is crucial to combating this disease.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor Increases Leukocyte–Endothelial Interactions in Human Endothelial Cells via Promotion of Expression of Adhesion Molecules
Authors: Cheng Qiang , McKeown Sonja J. , Santos Leilani , Santiago Fernando S. , Khachigian Levon M. , Morand Eric F. , Hickey Michael J.
Published: June 2010

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been shown to promote leukocyte–endothelial cell interactions, although whether this occurs via an effect on endothelial cell function remains unclear. Therefore, the aims of this study were to examine the ability of MIF expressed by endothelial cells to promote leukocyte adhesion and to investigate the effect of exogenous MIF on leukocyte–endothelial interactions. Using small interfering RNA to inhibit HUVEC MIF production, we found that MIF deficiency reduced the ability of TNF-stimulated HUVECs to support leukocyte rolling and adhesion under flow conditions. These reductions were associated with decreased expression of E-selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, IL-8, and MCP-1. Inhibition of p38 MAPK had a similar effect on adhesion molecule expression, and p38 MAPK activation was reduced in MIF-deficient HUVECs, suggesting that MIF mediated these effects via promotion of p38 MAPK activation. In experiments examining the effect of exogenous MIF, application of MIF to resting HUVECs failed to induce leukocyte rolling and adhesion, whereas addition of MIF to TNF-treated HUVECs increased these interactions. This increase was independent of alterations in TNF-induced expression of E-selectin, VCAM-1, and ICAM-1. However, combined treatment with MIF and TNF induced de novo expression of P-selectin, which contributed to leukocyte rolling. In summary, these experiments reveal that endothelial cell-expressed MIF and exogenous MIF promote endothelial adhesive function via different pathways. Endogenous MIF promotes leukocyte recruitment via effects on endothelial expression of several adhesion molecules and chemokines, whereas exogenous MIF facilitates leukocyte recruitment induced by TNF by promoting endothelial P-selectin expression.
Cutting Edge: Type I IFN Reverses Human Th2 Commitment and Stability by Suppressing GATA3
Authors: Huber Jonathan P. , Ramos Hilario J. , Gill Michelle A. , Farrar J. David
Published: June 2010

T helper 2 cells regulate inflammatory responses to helminth infections while also mediating pathological processes of asthma and allergy. IL-4 promotes Th2 development by inducing the expression of the GATA3 transcription factor, and the Th2 phenotype is stabilized by a GATA3-dependent autoregulatory loop. In this study, we found that type I IFN (IFN-α/β) blocked human Th2 development and inhibited cytokine secretion from committed Th2 cells. This negative regulatory pathway was operative in human but not mouse CD4+ T cells and was selective to type I IFN, as neither IFN-γ nor IL-12 mediated such inhibition. IFN-α/β blocked Th2 cytokine secretion through the inhibition of GATA3 during Th2 development and in fully committed Th2 cells. Ectopic expression of GATA3 via retrovirus did not overcome IFN-α/β–mediated inhibition of Th2 commitment. Thus, we demonstrate a novel role for IFN-α/β in blocking Th2 cells, suggesting its potential as a promising therapy for atopy and asthma.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis Activates Human Macrophage Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor γ Linking Mannose Receptor Recognition to Regulation of Immune Responses
Authors: Rajaram Murugesan V. S. , Brooks Michelle N. , Morris Jessica D. , Torrelles Jordi B. , Azad Abul K. , Schlesinger Larry S.
Published: June 2010

Mycobacterium tuberculosis enhances its survival in macrophages by suppressing immune responses in part through its complex cell wall structures. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a nuclear receptor superfamily member, is a transcriptional factor that regulates inflammation and has high expression in alternatively activated alveolar macrophages and macrophage-derived foam cells, both cell types relevant to tuberculosis pathogenesis. In this study, we show that virulent M. tuberculosis and its cell wall mannose-capped lipoarabinomannan induce PPARγ expression through a macrophage mannose receptor-dependent pathway. When activated, PPARγ promotes IL-8 and cyclooxygenase 2 expression, a process modulated by a PPARγ agonist or antagonist. Upstream, MAPK-p38 mediates cytosolic phospholipase A2 activation, which is required for PPARγ ligand production. The induced IL-8 response mediated by mannose-capped lipoarabinomannan and the mannose receptor is independent of TLR2 and NF-κB activation. In contrast, the attenuated Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin induces less PPARγ and preferentially uses the NF-κB–mediated pathway to induce IL-8 production. Finally, PPARγ knockdown in human macrophages enhances TNF production and controls the intracellular growth of M. tuberculosis. These data identify a new molecular pathway that links engagement of the mannose receptor, an important pattern recognition receptor for M. tuberculosis, with PPARγ activation, which regulates the macrophage inflammatory response, thereby playing a role in tuberculosis pathogenesis.
Free Pre-Lie Algebras are Free as Lie Algebras
Authors: Chapoton Frédéric
Published: June 2010

We prove that the -module PreLie is a free Lie algebra in the category of -modules and can therefore be written as the composition of the -module Lie with a new -module X. This implies that free pre-Lie algebras in the category of vector spaces, when considered as Lie algebras, are free on generators that can be described using X. Furthermore, we define a natural filtration on the -module X. We also obtain a relationship between X and the -module coming from the anticyclic structure of the PreLie operad.
Implications of warming temperatures for population outbreaks of a nonindigenous species (Membranipora membranacea, Bryozoa) in rocky subtidal ecosystems
Authors: Saunders Megan I. , Metaxas Anna , Filgueira Ramón
Published: June 2010

To quantify and explore the role of temperature on population outbreaks of a nonindigenous bryozoan (Membranipora membranacea) in kelp beds in the western North Atlantic (Nova Scotia, Canada), we constructed an individual‐based model using field‐derived estimates for temperature‐dependent colony settlement and growth. Using temperature as the single input variable, the model successfully simulated the timing of onset of settlement, colony abundance, colony size, and coverage on kelps. We used the model to examine the relative effect on the population of varying temperature by ‐2°C to +2°C each day. The timing of onset of settlement varied by 18°C−1 with changes in temperature from January to August. Variations in temperature had nonlinear effects on the population, with an increase in daily temperature of 1°C and 2°C causing the cover of colonies on kelps to increase by factors of 9 and 62, respectively. Changes in winter and spring temperature had the most pronounced effects on the timing and abundance of colonies, while changes in summer temperature had the most pronounced effect on colony size and coverage on kelp blades. Outbreaks of this species will increase in frequency and intensity if temperatures warm as a result of climate change, causing defoliation of kelp beds and, thus, facilitating the invasion of other nonindigenous benthic species.
Consistent DNA Hypermethylation Patterns in Laryngeal Papillomas
Authors: Stephen Josena K , Chen Kang Mei , Shah Veena , Schweitzer Vanessa G , Gardner Glendon , Benninger Michael S , Worsham Maria J
Published: June 2010

Introduction

This study examined the contribution of promoter hypermethylation to the pathogenesis of respiratory papillomatosis (RP), including recurrences (RRP) and progression to squamous cell carcinoma (SSC).

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort of 25 laryngeal papilloma cases included 21 RRP, two of which progressed to SCC. Aberrant methylation status was determined using the multigene (22 tumor suppressor genes) methylation-specific multiplex ligationdependent probe amplification assay and confirmed using methylation specific PCR.

Results

Twenty genes had altered DNA methylation in 22 of 25 cases. Aberrant methylation ofCDKN2BandTIMP3was most frequent. Promoter hypermethylation ofBRCA2, APC, CDKN2AandCDKN2Bwas detected in 2 RRP cases with subsequent progression to SCC. Of the 25 cases, 22 were positive for HPV-6, 2 for HPV-11 and 1 for HPV-16 and 33.

Conclusion

Consistent aberrant methylation of multiple tumor suppressor genes contributes to the pathogenesis of laryngeal papillomas. Persistent aberrant DNA methylation events in 2 RRP cases that progressed to cancer indicate an epigenetic monoclonal progression continuum to SCC.
An Attempt to Introduce Neurological Test for Fetus Based on 3D and 4D Sonography
Authors: Miskovic Berivoj , Ahmed Badreldeen , Younis Moayyad , Abo-Yaquab Salwa , Saleh Huda , Shaddad Afaf Naim , Bahar Awatif Juma Al , Khenyab Najat
Published: June 2010

Fetal neurology is a new challenging field. Brain damage often originates in fetal life. Early identification of this damage has implications for perinatal management; moreover documentation of such lesions is essential in case of litigation. In the last two decades, fetal imaging with 2-dimensional ultrasounds and conventional magnetic resonance imaging have made a major contribution in the identification of classic brain lesions and malformations. However, it is only recently with diffusion weight imaging that the whole spectrum of perinatal white matter injuries has been described in the neonate. The recent advances of 3DUS and 4DUS in exploring fetal motor behavior should support a better clinical description of the full spectrum of fetal damage. New neurological test (KANET) of the fetus recently suggested by us (Kurjak et al 2008) might be helpful in the assessment of fetal neurobehavior.
Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Murotsuki Jun
Published: June 2010

Ultrasonography is a well-established imaging modality for evaluation of gynecologic tumors. In recent years, more sophisticated technologies like the use of intravascular contrast agents led to an improvement in the ability of the practitioner to differentiate benign from malignant masses. When we consider the safety of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography in obstetrics and gynecology, we must discuss about the effect of ultrasound contrast media on embryo and fetus. The use of ultrasound contrast media in pregnant women always concerns in the obstetricians because of the principle of not exposing a fetus to any drug. Therefore, the literature was reviewed for information about those safety and efficacy because of the uncertainty about the use of contrast media during pregnancy. Based on the limited information available, mutagenic and teratogenic effects have not been described after administration of ultrasound contrast media. No effect on the fetus has been seen after contrast media. The small potential risk associated with the nonthermal bioeffects via acoustic cavitation may be considered to prohibit the use in first trimester pregnant women. In previous studies including human trials, no evidence of adverse effect was reported. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography could prove a useful adjunct in multiple gestations and in evaluation of uteroplacental circulation. It appears to be very promising potential in obstetrics.
Ultrasound Evaluation of Pregnancy in the First Trimester
Authors: Graham George M
Published: June 2010

Improvements in ultrasound technology, including transvaginal sonography and higher frequency probes, have led to a better understanding of early pregnancy development. These advances and the increasing availability of ultrasound allow women to have an earlier and more accurate assessment of their pregnancy. First trimester sonographic signs have been identified that can be used to reassure women that their pregnancy is progressing normally or counsel them that their pregnancy will fail. In addition, first trimester ultrasound can accurately predict the type of twinning in multiple gestations, allowing for appropriate counseling and management.

Objectives

Know the first trimester ultrasound findings of a normal intrauterine pregnancy

Understand the ultrasound findings that diagnose an early pregnancy failure

Know the ultrasound criteria used to diagnose a multifetal gestation
Further Experience in the Clinical Assessment of Fetal Neurobehavior
Authors: Zalud Ivica , Perva Sejfulah , Honemeyer Ulrich , Al-Noobi Madeeha , Luetic Ana Tikvica , Talic Amira , Tomasovic Sanja , Zaputovic Sanja
Published: June 2010

Recent development of three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional ultrasound (4D) provided us with new possibilities to study fetal movements and behavior. Many studies have been conducted in order to provide information on specific movement pattern appearance in normal and high-risk fetus. This was the base for multicenter study on use of new scoring system for fetal neurobehavior which purpose is to recognize fetuses with increased risk for poor neurological outcome. The purpose of this paper is to give brief review on the use of 3D and 4D ultrasound in the assessment of fetal behavior.

Objectives

Define possibilities to study fetal movements and behavior by 3D and 4D ultrasound

Decribe new scoring system for neurobehavior in fetuses with increased risk for poor neurological outcome

Summarize behavioral perinatology research and potential clinical applications
Anatomical Analysis of the Frontal Recess Cells in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery-An Indian Perspective
Authors: Agarwal AK , Passey JC , Kaul JM
Published: June 2010

Surgery of the frontal sinus has gone a full circle from intranasal procedures to destructive and disfiguring external operations and now back to intranasal procedures but with endoscopes. Endoscopic surgery of the frontal sinus has always been a challenging experience because of the narrowness of the area, poor visibility, variable anatomy and encroachment by accessory cells such as agger nasi, frontal, intersinus septal cells on the drainage pathway. With the developments in optical aids such as endoscopes, which provide an angled view, better and brighter illumination, sophistication in the designs of instrumentation and development of imaging techniques, a renewed interest has been created in this area, but the knowledge of anatomy of this area is poor and does not meet the demands of the present day endoscopic surgeon. Moreover, no studies are available on Indian subjects.

Our main interest in the present study was to study the various air cells which encroach the area of frontal recess and would need surgical removal to provide a good drainage and ventilation.
Towards the Understanding of Sinonasal Anatomical Variations - A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Sahni Daisy , Mehta Rupa , Aggarwal Anjali
Published: June 2010

A thorough understanding of the sinonasal anatomy is required for the performance of a safe and successful surgery. With the aim to identify the variations in sinonasal anatomy in north Indian population twenty fresh cadaveric heads were dissected by messerklinger technique to identify various sinonasal anatomic variations in north Indian population. The variations in the key landmarks of nose and paranasal sinuses during endoscopic sinus surgery were noted and compared with other studies. Identification and differentiation of the normal and the abnormal sinonasal anatomic variations helps in preventing complications and giving optimum surgical results.
Giant Esthesioneuroblastoma: Is There Any Scope of Endoscopic Approach?
Authors: Grover Mohnish , Mehta Rupa , Gupta Ashok K , Virk Ramandeep S , Grover Gogia
Published: June 2010

Esthesioneuroblastoma is a rare neoplasm of nose & paranasal sinuses and anterior skullbase. Management includes either radiotherapy or surgery or both. Surgical management can be done by external neurosurgical approach (i.e. craniofacial resection) or endoscopic approach. In the present case report we present our experience of the management of an extensive esthesioneuroblastoma kadish stage C treated by endoscopic excision and postoperative radiotherapy.
Varied Presentations of Inverted Papilloma
Authors: Mallina S , Vivekanandan Anitha
Published: June 2010

Inverted papillomas form about 0.4 to 5% of nasal tumors. They usually present as unilateral firm, bulky, red and vascular masses. We present three cases which were initially diagnosed as a maxillary mucocele, pansinusitis and antrochoanal polyp based on clinical and radiological findings. It is important to keep the diagnosis of inverted papilloma in mind in unilateral diseases of the paranasal sinuses as a more radical approach is required.
Extramedullary Plasmacytoma of Nasal Cavity: A Rare Entity
Authors: Verma PC , Rawat Digvijay Singh , Grover Mohnish
Published: June 2010

Extramedullary plasmacytoma is a rare plasma cell proliferative disorder arising outside the bone marrow. It shows a predilection for the head and neck region. They commonly involve the mucosa associated lymphoid tissues of upper airways. Common sites are nasal cavities and paranasal sinuses followed by nasopharynx, tonsils and oropharynx. We report a case of an isolated lesion in the right nasal cavity in an elderly male in which surgical excision is followed by postoperative radiotherapy.
Determination of particulate lead using aerosol mass spectrometry: MILAGRO/MCMA-2006 observations
Authors: Salcedo D. , Onasch T. B. , Aiken A. C. , Williams L. R. , de Foy B. , Cubison M. J. , Worsnop D. R. , Molina L. T. , Jimenez J. L.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. We report the first measurements of particulate lead (Pb) from Aerodyne Aerosol Mass Spectrometers, which were deployed in and around Mexico City during the Megacity Initiative: Local and Global Research Observations (MILAGRO)/Mexico City Metropolitan Area 2006 (MCMA-2006) field campaigns. The high resolution mass spectrometer of one of the AMS instruments (HR-AMS) and the measured isotopic ratios unequivocally prove the detection of Pb in ambient particles. A substantial fraction of the lead evaporated slowly from the vaporizer of the instruments, which is indicative of species with low volatility at 600 °C. A model was developed in order to estimate the ambient particulate Pb entering the AMS from the signals in the "open" and the "closed" (or "background") mass spectrum modes of the AMS. The model suggests the presence of at least two lead fractions with ~25% of the Pb signal exhibiting rapid evaporation (1/e decay constant, τ<0.1 s) and ~75% exhibiting slow evaporation (τ~2.4 min) at the T0 urban supersite and a different fraction (70% prompt and 30% slow evaporation) at a site northwest from the metropolitan area (PEMEX site). From laboratory experiments with pure Pb(NO3)2 particles, we estimated that the Pb ionization efficiency relative to nitrate (RIEPb) is 0.5. Comparison of time series of AMS Pb with other measurements carried out at the T0 supersite during MILAGRO (using Proton Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE), Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) and single-particle counts from an Aerosol Time-of-Fight Mass Spectrometer (ATOFMS)) shows similar levels (for PIXE and ICP-MS) and substantial correlation. During part of the campaign, sampling at T0 was alternated every 10 min with an Aerosol Concentrator, which enabled the detection of signals for PbCl+ and PbS+ ions. PbS+ displays the signature of a slowly evaporating species, while PbCl+ appears to arise only from fast evaporation, which is likely due to the higher vapor pressure of the compounds generating PbCl+. This is consistent with the evaporation model results. Levels of particulate Pb measured at T0 were similar to previous studies in Mexico City. Pb shows a diurnal cycle with a maximum in the early morning, which is typical of primary urban pollutants. Pb shows correlation with Zn, consistent with previous studies, while the sources of Pb appear to be at least partially disjoint from those of particulate chloride. Back trajectory analysis of the T0 Pb data suggests the presence of sources inside the urban area SSW and N of T0, with different chemical forms of Pb being associated with different source locations. High signals due to particulate lead were also detected in the PEMEX site; again, no correlation between Pb and chloride plumes was observed, suggesting mostly different sources for both species.
The role of the particle size distribution in assessing aerosol composition effects on simulated droplet activation
Authors: Ward D. S. , Eidhammer T. , Cotton W. R. , Kreidenweis S. M.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Variations in the chemical composition of atmospheric aerosols alter their hygroscopicity and can lead to changes in the cloud-active fraction of the aerosols, or cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) number concentration. To investigate the importance of this effect under different atmospheric conditions, cloud droplet formation was simulated with a Lagrangian parcel model. Initial values of updraft speed and temperature were systematically varied along with aerosol number concentration, size and hygroscopicity (represented by the hygroscopicity parameter, κ). A previous study classifies the sensitivity of CCN activity to compositional changes based on the supersaturation reached in the parcel model. We found that these classifications could not be generalized to a range of aerosol size distribution median radii. Instead, variations in sensitivity with size depend on the location of the dry critical radius for droplet activation relative to the size distribution median radius. The parcel model output was used to construct droplet activation lookup tables based on κ that were implemented in the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) microphysical scheme. As a first application of this system, aerosol hygroscopicity and size were varied in a series of RAMS mesoscale simulations designed to investigate the sensitivity of a mixed-phase orographic cloud case to the parameter variations. Observations from a recent field campaign in northwestern Colorado provided the basis for the aerosol field initializations. Model results show moderate sensitivity in the distribution of total case precipitation to extreme changes in κ, and minimal sensitivity to observed changes in estimated κ. The impact of varying aerosol hygroscopicity diminished with increasing median radius, as expected from the parcel model results. The conclusions drawn from these simulations could simplify similar research in other cloud regimes by defining the need, or lack of need, for detailed knowledge of aerosol composition.
Cirrus clouds in a global climate model with a statistical cirrus cloud scheme
Authors: Wang M. , Penner J. E.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. A statistical cirrus cloud scheme that accounts for mesoscale temperature perturbations is implemented in a coupled aerosol and atmospheric circulation model to better represent both subgrid-scale supersaturation and cloud formation. This new scheme treats the effects of aerosol on cloud formation and ice freezing in an improved manner, and both homogeneous freezing and heterogeneous freezing are included. The scheme is able to better simulate the observed probability distribution of relative humidity compared to the scheme that was implemented in an older version of the model. Heterogeneous ice nuclei (IN) are shown to decrease the frequency of occurrence of supersaturation, and improve the comparison with observations at 192 hPa. Homogeneous freezing alone can not reproduce observed ice crystal number concentrations at low temperatures (<205 K), but the addition of heterogeneous IN improves the comparison somewhat. Increases in heterogeneous IN affect both high level cirrus clouds and low level liquid clouds. Increases in cirrus clouds lead to a more cloudy and moist lower troposphere with less precipitation, effects which we associate with the decreased convective activity. The change in the net cloud forcing is not very sensitive to the change in ice crystal concentrations, but the change in the net radiative flux at the top of the atmosphere is still large because of changes in water vapor. Changes in the magnitude of the assumed mesoscale temperature perturbations by 25% alter the ice crystal number concentrations and the net radiative fluxes by an amount that is comparable to that from a factor of 10 change in the heterogeneous IN number concentrations. Further improvements on the representation of mesoscale temperature perturbations, heterogeneous IN and the competition between homogeneous freezing and heterogeneous freezing are needed.
Organic particulate matter formation at varying relative humidity using surrogate secondary and primary organic compounds with activity corrections in the condensed phase obtained using a method based on the Wilson equation
Authors: Chang E. I. , Pankow J. F.
Published: June 2010

Abstract. Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation in the atmosphere is currently often modeled using a multiple lumped "two-product" (N·2p) approach. The N·2p approach neglects: 1) variation of activity coefficient (ζi) values and mean molecular weight MW in the particulate matter (PM) phase; 2) water uptake into the PM; and 3) the possibility of phase separation in the PM. This study considers these effects by adopting an (N·2p)ζpMW,ζ approach (θ is a phase index). Specific chemical structures are assigned to 25 lumped SOA compounds and to 15 representative primary organic aerosol (POA) compounds to allow calculation of ζi and MW values. The SOA structure assignments are based on chamber-derived 2p gas/particle partition coefficient values coupled with known effects of structure on vapor pressure pL,io (atm). To facilitate adoption of the (N·2p)ζpMW,θ approach in large-scale models, this study also develops CP-Wilson.1 (Chang-Pankow-Wilson.1), a group-contribution ζi-prediction method that is more computationally economical than the UNIFAC model of Fredenslund et al. (1975). Group parameter values required by CP-Wilson.1 are obtained by fitting ζi values to predictions from UNIFAC. The (N·2p)ζpMW,θ approach is applied (using CP-Wilson.1) to several real α-pinene/O3 chamber cases for high reacted hydrocarbon levels (ΔHC≈400 to 1000 μg m−3) when relative humidity (RH) ≈50%. Good agreement between the chamber and predicted results is obtained using both the (N·2p)ζpMW,θ and N·2p approaches, indicating relatively small water effects under these conditions. However, for a hypothetical α-pinene/O3 case at ΔHC=30 μg m−3 and RH=50%, the (N·2p)ζpMW,θ approach predicts that water uptake will lead to an organic PM level that is more double that predicted by the N·2p approach. Adoption of the (N·2p)ζpMW,θ approach using reasonable lumped structures for SOA and POA compounds is recommended for ambient PM modeling.