bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient Occlusion of Bilateral Internal Iliac Arteries Facilitates Bloodless Operative Field in Subcapsular Prostatectomy
Authors: Takeuchi Takumi , Zaitsu Masayoshi , Mikami Koji , Yui Shunsuke , Takeshima Yuta , Okamoto Naohiko , Imao Sadao
Published: February 2012

Transurethral resection of the prostate is the gold standard of surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Nevertheless, open subcapsular prostatectomy is still performed for large BPH. While enucleation of prostatic adenoma is being performed, unneglectable bleeding can occur and surgeons need to rush to remove adenomas, often using fingers and in a blinded fashion. The blood supply to the prostatic capsule and adenoma can be reduced to a marked extent in subcapsular prostatectomy if the bilateral internal iliac arteries are transiently occluded. Thus, a bloodless operative field is reasonably acquired during enucleation of adenoma, which would, otherwise, be a cause for concern to surgeons due to bleeding. It is not always applicable, but it could be an option if the estimated volume of BPH is more than 100 mL. In two cases, bilateral internal iliac arteries were occluded with Bulldog clamps, and then adenomas of 159 and 97 g were enucleated.
Effect of N,C-ITO on Composite N,C-Ti/N,C-ITO/ITO Electrode Used for Photoelectrochemical Degradation of Aqueous Pollutant with Simultaneous Hydrogen Production
Authors: Wu Kee-Rong , Hung Chung-Hsuang , Yeh Chung-Wei , Wang Chien-Chung , Wu Jiing-Kae
Published: February 2012

This study reports the effect of N,C-ITO (indium tin oxide) layer on composite N,C-TiO2/N,C-ITO/ITO (Ti/TO) electrode used for efficient photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) degradation of aqueous pollutant with simultaneous hydrogen production. The structural properties of the composite Ti/TO electrode that determined by X-ray diffraction and Raman scattering, show primarily the crystallized anatase TiO2phase and distinct diffraction patterns of polycrystalline In2O3phase. Under solar light illumination, the composite Ti/TO electrode yields simultaneously a hydrogen production rate of 12.0 μmol cm−2 h−1and degradation rate constant of  cm−2 h−1in organic pollutant. It implies that the overlaid N,C-TiO2layer enhances not only the photocurrent response of the composite Ti/TO electrode at entire applied potentials, but also the flat band potential; a shift of about 0.1 V toward cathode, which is desperately beneficial in the PEC process. In light of the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy findings, these results are attributable partly to the synergetic effect of N,C-codoping into the TiO2and ITO lattices on their band gap narrowing and photosensitizing as well. Thus, the Ti/TO electrode can potentially serve an efficient PEC electrode for simultaneous pollutant degradation and hydrogen production.
FDK-Type Algorithms with No Backprojection Weight for Circular and Helical Scan CT
Authors: Narasimhadhan A. V. , Rajgopal Kasi
Published: February 2012

We develop two Feldkamp-type reconstruction algorithms with no backprojection weight for circular and helical trajectory with planar detector geometry. Advances in solid-state electronic detector technologies lend importance to CT systems with the equispaced linear array, the planar (flat panel) detectors, and the corresponding algorithms. We derive two exact Hilbert filtered backprojection (FBP) reconstruction algorithms with no backprojection weight for 2D fan-beam equispace linear array detector geometry (complement of the equi-angular curved array detector). Based on these algorithms, the Feldkamp-type algorithms with no backprojection weight for 3D reconstruction are developed using the standard heuristic extension of the divergent beam FBP algorithm. The simulation results show that the axial intensity drop in the reconstructed image using the FDK algorithms with no backprojection weight with circular trajectory is similar to that obtained by using Hu's and T-FDK, algorithms. Further, we present efficient algorithms to reduce the axial intensity drop encountered in the standard FDK reconstructions in circular cone-beam CT. The proposed algorithms consist of mainly two steps: reconstruction of the object using FDK algorithm with no backprojection weight and estimation of the missing term. The efficient algorithms are compared with the FDK algorithm, Hu's algorithm, T-FDK, and Zhu et al.'s algorithm in terms of axial intensity drop and noise. Simulation shows that the efficient algorithms give similar performance in axial intensity drop as that of Zhu et al.'s algorithm while one of the efficient algorithms outperforms Zhu et al.'s algorithm in terms of computational complexity.
Preclinical Evaluation of TriMix and Antigen mRNA-Based Antitumor Therapy
Authors: Van Lint Sandra , Goyvaerts Cleo , Maenhout Sarah , Goethals Lode , Disy Aurélie , Benteyn Daphné , Pen Joeri , Bonehill Aude , Heirman Carlo , Breckpot Karine , Thielemans Kris
Published: February 2012

The use of tumor-associated antigen (TAA) mRNA for therapeutic purposes is under active investigation. To be effective, mRNA vaccines need to deliver activation stimuli in addition to TAAs to dendritic cells (DC). In this study, we evaluated whether intranodal delivery of TAA mRNA together with TriMix, a mix of mRNA encoding CD40 ligand, constitutive active Toll-like receptor 4 and CD70, results in the in situ modification and maturation of DCs, hence, priming of TAA-specific T cells. We showed selective uptake and translation of mRNA in vivo by lymph node resident CD11c+ cells. This process was hampered by codelivery of classical maturation stimuli but not by TriMix mRNA. Importantly, TriMix mRNA induced a T-cell–attracting and stimulatory environment, including recruitment of antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and CTLs against various TAAs. In several mouse tumor models, mRNA vaccination was as efficient in CTL induction and therapy response as vaccination with mRNA-electroporated DCs. Together, our findings suggest that intranodal administration of TAA mRNA together with mRNA encoding immunomodulating molecules is a promising vaccination strategy. Cancer Res; 72(7); 1661–71. ©2012 AACR.
18F-FDG-PET/CT Imaging as an Early Survival Predictor in Patients with Primary High-Grade Soft Tissue Sarcomas Undergoing Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Herrmann Ken , Benz Matthias R. , Czernin Johannes , Allen-Auerbach Martin S. , Tap William D. , Dry Sarah M. , Schuster Tibor , Eckardt Jeff J. , Phelps Michael E. , Weber Wolfgang A. , Eilber Fritz C.
Published: February 2012

Purpose: Neoadjuvant therapy is associated with considerable toxicity and limited survival benefits in patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS). We prospectively evaluated whether 2[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (18F-FDG)-PET/computed tomographic (CT) imaging after the initial cycle of neoadjuvant therapy could predict overall survival in these patients.

Experimental Design: Thirty-nine patients underwent 18F-FDG-PET/CT before and after one cycle of neoadjuvant therapy. Fifty-six patients underwent end-of-treatment PET. Overall survival was, among others, correlated with changes of SUVpeak and histopathology.

Results: One-, two-, and five-year survival rates were 95% ± 3.0%, 86% ± 4.6%, and 68% ± 6.6%, respectively. Median time to death was 30.9 months (mean, 27.7; range, 6.9–50.1). Optimal cutoff values for early and late decreases in SUVpeak (26% and 57%, respectively) were significant predictors of survival in univariate survival analysis [P = 0.041; HR, 0.27; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.08–0.95 and P = 0.045; HR, 0.31; 95% CI, 0.10–0.98]. Seven of 15 early PET nonresponders but only four of 24 early PET responders died during follow-up (P = 0.068). The only other significant survival predictor was surgical margin positivity (P = 0.041; HR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.05–10.42). By multivariable analysis, early metabolic response (P = 0.016) and positivity of surgical margins (P = 0.036) remained significant survival predictors.

Conclusion: 18F-FDG-PET predicted survival after the initial cycle of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with STS and can potentially serve as an intermediate endpoint biomarker in clinical research and patient care. Clin Cancer Res; 18(7); 2024–31. ©2012 AACR.
Copy Number Gain of 1q25 Predicts Poor Progression-Free Survival for Pediatric Intracranial Ependymomas and Enables Patient Risk Stratification: A Prospective European Clinical Trial Cohort Analysis on Behalf of the Children's Cancer Leukaemia Group (CCLG), Société Française d'Oncologie Pédiatrique (SFOP), and International Society for Pediatric Oncology (SIOP)
Authors: Kilday John-Paul , Mitra Biswaroop , Domerg Caroline , Ward Jennifer , Andreiuolo Felipe , Osteso-Ibanez Teresa , Mauguen Audrey , Varlet Pascale , Le Deley Marie-Cecile , Lowe James , Ellison David W. , Gilbertson Richard J. , Coyle Beth , Grill Jacques , Grundy Richard G.
Published: February 2012

Purpose: The high incidence of recurrence and unpredictable clinical outcome for pediatric ependymoma reflect the imprecision of current therapeutic staging and need for novel risk stratification markers. We therefore evaluated 1q25 gain across three age- and treatment-defined European clinical trial cohorts of pediatric intracranial ependymoma.

Experimental Design: Frequency of 1q gain was assessed across 48 ependymomas (42 primary, 6 recurrent) using Affymetrix 500K single-nucleotide polymorphism arrays. Gain of 1q25 was then evaluated by interphase FISH across 189 tumors treated on the Children's Cancer Leukaemia Group/International Society for Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) CNS9204 (n = 60) and BBSFOP (n = 65) adjuvant chemotherapy trials, or with primary postoperative radiotherapy (SIOP CNS9904/RT, n = 64). Results were correlated with clinical, histologic, and survival data.

Results: Gain of 1q was the most frequent imbalance in primary (7/42, 17%) and recurrent ependymomas (2/6, 33%). Gain of 1q25 was an independent predictor of tumor progression across the pooled trial cohort [HR = 2.55; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56–4.16; P = 0.0002] and both CNS9204 (HR = 4.03; 95% CI: 1.88–8.63) and BBSFOP (HR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.22–7.86) groups. The only clinical variable associated with adverse outcome was incomplete tumor resection. Integrating tumor resectability with 1q25 status enabled stratification of cases into disease progression risk groups for all three trial cohorts.

Conclusions: This is the first study to validate a prognostic genomic marker for childhood ependymoma across independent trial groups. 1q25 gain predicts disease progression and can contribute to patient risk stratification. We advocate the prospective evaluation of 1q25 gain as an adverse marker in future international clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 18(7); 2001–11. ©2012 AACR.
Phase I Study of Rigosertib, an Inhibitor of the Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase and Polo-like Kinase 1 Pathways, Combined with Gemcitabine in Patients with Solid Tumors and Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ma Wen Wee , Messersmith Wells A. , Dy Grace K. , Weekes Colin D. , Whitworth Amy , Ren Chen , Maniar Manoj , Wilhelm Francois , Eckhardt S. Gail , Adjei Alex A. , Jimeno Antonio
Published: February 2012

Purpose: Rigosertib, a dual non-ATP inhibitor of polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) and phosphoinositide 3-kinase pathways (PI3K), and gemcitabine have synergistic antitumor activity when combined in preclinical studies. This phase I study aimed to determine the recommended phase II dose (RPTD) of the combination of rigosertib and gemcitabine in patients with cancer.

Experimental Design: Patients with solid tumors who failed standard therapy or were candidates for gemcitabine-based therapy were eligible. Gemcitabine was administered on days 1, 8, and 15 on a 28-day cycle and rigosertib on days 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, and 18. Pharmacokinetic studies were conducted during an expansion cohort of patients with advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA).

Results: Forty patients were treated, 19 in the dose-escalation phase and 21 in the expansion cohort. Dose levels evaluated were (gemcitabine/rigosertib mg/m2): 750/600 (n = 4), 750/1,200 (n = 3), 1,000/600 (n = 3), 1,000/1,200 (n = 3), and 1,000/1,800 (n = 6 + 21). One dose-limiting toxicity (death) occurred at the highest dose level (1,000/1,800) tested. Non–dose-limiting ≥grade II/III toxicities included neutropenia, lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, fatigue, and nausea. Grade III/IV neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and fatigue were seen in two, one, and two patients in the expansion cohort. Partial responses were observed in PDA, thymic cancer, and Hodgkin lymphoma, including gemcitabine-pretreated PDA. The pharmacokinetic profile of rigosertib was not affected by gemcitabine.

Conclusion: The RPTD established in this study is rigosertib 1,800 mg/m2 and gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2. This regimen is well tolerated with a toxicity profile of the combination similar to the profile of gemcitabine alone. Antitumor efficacy was observed in patients who previously progressed on gemcitabine-based therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 18(7); 2048–55. ©2012 AACR.
Passive Immunization against Pyroglutamate-3 Amyloid-β Reduces Plaque Burden in Alzheimer-Like Transgenic Mice: A Pilot Study
Authors: Frost Jeffrey L. , Liu Bin , Kleinschmidt Martin , Schilling Stephan , Demuth Hans-Ulrich , Lemere Cynthia A.
Published: February 2012

Background: N-terminally truncated and modified pyroglutamate-3 amyloid-β protein (pE3-Aβ) is present in most, if not all, cerebral plaque and vascular amyloid deposits in human Alzheimer’s disease (AD). pE3-Aβ deposition is also found in AD-like transgenic (tg) mouse brain, albeit in lesser quantities than general Aβ. pE3-Aβ resists degradation, is neurotoxic, and may act as a seed for Aβ aggregation. Objective: We sought to determine if pE3-Aβ removal by passive immunization with a highly specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) impacts pathogenesis in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s amyloidosis. Methods: APPswe/PS1ΔE9 tg mice were given weekly intraperitoneal injections of a new anti-pE3-Aβ mAb (mAb07/1) or PBS from 5.8 to 13.8 months of age (prevention) or from 23 to 24.7 months of age (therapeutic). Multiple forms of cerebral Aβ were quantified pathologically and biochemically. Gliosis and microhemorrhage were examined. Results: Chronic passive immunization with an anti-pE3-Aβ mAb significantly reduced total plaque deposition and appeared to lower gliosis in the hippocampus and cerebellum in both the prevention and therapeutic studies. Insoluble Aβ levels in hemibrain homogenates were not significantly different between immunized and control mice. Microhemorrhage was not observed with anti-pE3-Aβ immunotherapy. Conclusions: Selective removal of pE3-Aβ lowered general Aβ plaque deposition suggesting a pro-aggregation or seeding role for pE3-Aβ.
Olfactory Deficits and Cognitive Dysfunction in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Parrao Teresa , Chana Pedro , Venegas Pablo , Behrens MarÍa Isabel , Aylwin MarÍa Luz
Published: February 2012

Background: Olfactory deficits and executive dysfunction have been reported in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the association between these deficits has not been thoroughly examined. Methods: We studied 44 PD subjects and 17 age-matched controls. In PD subjects, symptoms were assessed with the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale and the Hoehn and Yahr scale. Cognition in both groups was assessed by a neuropsychological battery. Olfactory identification and sensitivity was evaluated with the Sniffin’ Sticks® test and olfactory detection threshold, respectively. Results: PD subjects showed significant deficits in olfactory function and working memory, executive function, speed of information processing, visuospatial skills and phonological verbal fluency tests when compared with the control group. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between olfactory sensory deficits and executive dysfunction. In PD patients with up to 12 months of motor symptoms, results were equivalent. Conclusion: Our preliminary results suggest a significant association between olfactory deficits and impairments of executive functions in PD.
Exome Analysis of a Family With Pleiotropic Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Arrington Cammon B. , Bleyl Steven B. , Matsunami Norisada , Bonnell Gabriel D. , Otterud Brith E.M. , Nielsen Douglas C. , Stevens Jeffrey , Levy Shawn , Leppert Mark F. , Bowles Neil E.
Published: February 2012

Background—

A number of single gene defects have been identified in patients with isolated or nonsyndromic congenital heart defects (CHDs). However, due to significant genetic heterogeneity, candidate gene approaches have had limited success in finding high-risk alleles in most cases. The purpose of this study was to use exome sequencing to identify high-risk gene variants in a family with highly penetrant pleiotropic CHD.

Methods and Results—

DNA samples from 2 members of a family with diverse CHD were analyzed by exome sequencing. Variants were filtered to eliminate common variants and sequencing artifacts and then prioritized based on the predicted effect of the variant and on gene function. The remainder of the family was screened using polymerase chain reaction, high-resolution melting analysis, and DNA sequencing to evaluate variant segregation. After filtering, >2000 rare variants (including single nucleotide substitutions and indels) were shared by the 2 individuals. Of these, 46 were nonsynonymous, 3 were predicted to alter splicing, and 6 resulted in a frameshift. Prioritization reduced the number of variants potentially involved in CHD to 18. None of the variants completely segregated with CHD in the kindred. However, 1 variant, Myh6 Ala290Pro, was identified in all but 1 affected individual. This variant was previously identified in a patient with tricuspid atresia and large secundum atrial septal defect.

Conclusions—

It is likely that next-generation sequencing will become the method of choice for unraveling the complex genetics of CHD, but information gained by analysis of transmission through families will be crucial.
The Impact of Emotion Displays in Embodied Agents on Emergence of Cooperation with People
Authors: de Melo Celso M. , Carnevale Peter , Gratch Jonathan
Published: February 2012

Acknowledging the social functions of emotion in people, there has been growing interest in the interpersonal effect of emotion on cooperation in social dilemmas. This paper explores whether and how facial displays of emotion in embodied agents impact cooperation with human users. The paper describes an experiment where participants play the iterated prisoner's dilemma against two different agents that play the same strategy (tit-for-tat), but communicate different goal orientations (cooperative vs. individualistic) through their patterns of facial displays. The results show that participants are sensitive to differences in the displays of emotion and cooperate significantly more with the cooperative agent. The results also reveal that cooperation rates are only significantly different when people play first with the individualistic agent. This is in line with the well-known black-hat/white-hat effect from the negotiation literature. However, this study emphasizes that people can discern a cooperator (white-hat) from a noncooperator (black-hat) based only on emotion displays. We propose that people are able to identify the cooperator by inferring, from the emotion displays, the agent's goals. We refer to this as reverse appraisal, as it reverses the usual process in which appraising relevant events with respect to one's goals leads to specific emotion displays. We discuss implications for designing human–computer interfaces and understanding human–human interaction.
How Is Believability of a Virtual Agent Related to Warmth, Competence, Personification, and Embodiment?
Authors: Demeure Virginie , Niewiadomski Radosław , Pelachaud Catherine
Published: February 2012

The term “believability” is often used to describe expectations concerning virtual agents. In this paper, we analyze which factors influence the believability of the agent acting as the software assistant. We consider several factors such as embodiment, communicative behavior, and emotional capabilities. We conduct a perceptive study where we analyze the role of plausible and/or appropriate emotional displays in relation to believability. We also investigate how people judge the believability of the agent, and whether it provokes social reactions of humans toward it. Finally, we evaluate the respective impact of embodiment and emotion over believability judgments. The results of our study show that (a) appropriate emotions lead to higher perceived believability, (b) the notion of believability is closely correlated with the two major socio-cognitive variables, namely competence and warmth, and (c) considering an agent as believable can be different from having a human-like attitude toward it. Finally, a primacy of emotion behavior over embodiment while judging believability is also hypothesized from free responses given by the participants of this experiment.
An Estimate of Structural Uncertainty in QuikSCAT Wind Vector Retrievals
Authors: Fangohr Susanne , Kent Elizabeth C.
Published: February 2012

Differences between Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) level-2b wind vectors from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory [JPL; the Direction Interval Retrieval with Thresholded Nudging (DIRTH) product] and from the Remote Sensing Systems Co. (RSS; smoothed versions 3.0 and 4.0) for one sample month are presented. Each dataset is derived from the same observations, but processing methods result in differences between wind vectors. These differences originate from 1) uncertainty in the geophysical model functions that relate backscatter to wind, 2) noise in the backscatter measurements, and 3) spatial filtering. Statistics of wind vector differences from RSS and JPL are used as an indication of structural uncertainty in QuikSCAT wind retrievals. When grouped by 1 m s−1bins, systematic differences are largest beyond 20 m s−1, where wind speeds from version 3.0 (version 4.0) of RSS can be more than 15 (10) m s−1higher (lower) than JPL wind speeds. Below 20 m s−1, systematic differences on the order of tenths of a meter per second are attributed to differences in the retrieval methods, rain and ice contamination, and cross-swath position. Even once the recommended data flags are applied, differences in individual wind speed retrievals exceed 10 m s−1in a few cases but are much smaller in regions of the swath for which the viewing geometry allows more reliable retrievals. In all parts of the swath, the standard deviations of the differences are smaller than 1.0 m s−1. The analyses provide a measure of the structural uncertainty in QuikSCAT wind velocity that is due to the retrieval process, although such comparisons are not able to determine which dataset is closest to the actual wind.
Measurement and Statistical Modeling of the Urban Heat Island of the City of Utrecht (the Netherlands)
Authors: Brandsma Theo , Wolters Dirk
Published: February 2012

Mobile temperature and humidity measurements have been performed along a 14-km transect through the city of Utrecht, in the Netherlands (311 000 inhabitants), during the period March 2006–January 2009. The measurements took place on a bicycle during commuter traffic and resulted in 106 nighttime profiles (before sunrise) and 77 daytime (afternoon) profiles. It is shown how the intensity of the urban heat island depends on wind direction, cloudiness, and wind speed. Statistical models are constructed that relate the mean and maximum nighttime urban heat island intensity profiles to area-averaged sky-view factors and land use combined at both the micro- and local scales. Sky-view factors are estimated from a 0.5 m × 0.5 m surface elevation database, and land use is obtained from a 25 m × 25 m land-use database. The models are calibrated using the mobile measurements and provide estimates of the spatial distribution of the mean and maximum nighttime urban heat island intensity in Utrecht. Both models explain more than 75% of the variance. A separate nonlinear model is introduced that relates the temperature differences between the warmest part and coolest part of the transects to wind speed and cloudiness.
Test of the Fixed Anvil Temperature Hypothesis
Authors: Li Yue , Yang Ping , North Gerald R. , Dessler Andrew
Published: February 2012

The fixed anvil temperature (FAT) hypothesis is examined based on the Aqua Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)-based cloud-top temperature (CTT) in conjunction with the tropical atmospheric profiles and sea surface temperature (SST) from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) Interim Reanalysis. Consistent with the physical governing mechanism of the FAT hypothesis, the peak clear-sky diabatic subsidence and convergence profiles are located at roughly the same level (200 hPa) as the peak in the cloud profile, which is fundamentally determined by the rapid decrease of water vapor concentration above this level. The geographical maxima of cloud fraction agree well with those of water vapor, clear-sky cooling rates, and diabatic convergence at 200 hPa. The use of direct CTT measurements suggests the CTT in specific Pacific basins exhibit different characteristics as the frequency distribution of the tropical SST varies from boreal winter to summer. When averaging over the tropics as a whole, the CTT distributions are approximately unchanged primarily because of cancellation by the variations associated with individual regions. An analysis of the response of the tropical mean CTT anomaly time series to the SST indicates that a possible negative relationship is present, whereas the relationship tends to be positive over the tropical western Pacific and Indian Oceans. In addition, it is suggested to interpret the FAT hypothesis, and the more recent proportionately higher anvil temperature (PHAT) hypothesis, by using the temperature at the maximum cloud detrainment level instead of the CTT.
Quantifying Dispersal and Connectivity of Surface Waters Using Observational Lagrangian Measurements
Authors: Piecuch Christopher G. , Rynearson Tatiana A.
Published: February 2012

Probability distribution functions of displacement are central to Lagrangian statistics and the study of fluid dispersal. A method for computing marginal probability distributions of passive tracer dispersal from Lagrangian observations is developed. Using a pseudotrack approach, probability distributions for the domain of occupation and transit time are developed, complimenting more frequently used bulk statistics for average transit time and overall crossing probability. To demonstrate application of this technique to observations, likelihoods and time scales of dispersal from the Gulf Stream to the Azores are quantified using World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE) Surface Velocity Program (SVP) near-surface drifter data for the years 1992–2008. Over observable time scales, the transit of a particle in the near-surface ocean from the Gulf Stream to the Azores occurs across a spectrum of time scales, from tens to hundreds of days, with an overall likelihood of 42% ± 4% and a mean time scale of 321 ± 41 days. The exclusion of measurements from drifters released after 1 January 2004 (which have been shown to potentially exhibit bias) slightly increases the overall likelihood of connection (49% ± 6%), consistent with recent surface current shifts in the northern North Atlantic, and increases the mean connection time scale (371 ± 52 days), potentially reflecting spurious acceleration of drifters in recent years. The method presented is general and applicable to a wide range of applications in physical and ecological oceanography.
Race, Ethnicity, and Socioeconomic Inequality Among Minority Middle Classes
Authors: Wilson George , Shelton Jason
Published: February 2012

Offered is a discussion of major trends in sociological research on stratification among minority middle classes and a review/synopsis of pieces in this volume of The American Behavioral Scientist.
Influence of fillers content on the viscosity of unsaturated polyester resin/calcium carbonate blends
Authors: Kiehl Julien , Huser Julien , Bistac Sophie , Delaite Christelle
Published: February 2012

The objective of this experimental work was to study the rheological behavior of blends composed of unsaturated polyester resin and calcium carbonate. The influence of calcium carbonate content on the viscosity of the resin has been first investigated for calcium carbonate contents ranging from 0 to 60 wt%. Furthermore, the influences of shear rate and standing time have also been analyzed for different resin/fillers blends. The experimental results show a complex rheological behavior, and allow us to better control the composite formulation as a function of the required molding characteristics and properties of the final composite.
Microlevel manufacturing process simulation of carbon fiber/epoxy composites to analyze the effect of chemical and thermal induced residual stresses
Authors: Brauner Christian , Block Tim B , Purol Holger , Herrmann Axel S
Published: February 2012

A micromechanical implicit finite element analysis using Samcef/Mecano was performed to analyze the effect of process-induced deformations and stresses on a unidirectional carbon fiber–epoxy composite material (G1157/RTM6). During the manufacturing process, chemical and thermal shrinkage deformations occur and lead to internal stresses. In this article, several effects on the level of stress on the microscale will be discussed, which address the nonlinear behavior of the polymer matrix material. A parametric study was done on the influence of these effects on residual stresses including temperature dependency of the young’s modulus, thermal expansion coefficient, nonlinear thermomechanical stress–strain behavior, microyielding, microdegradation, and viscoelasticity. Several experiments have been carried out to investigate the thermomechanical behavior of the matrix material and to derivate constitutive equations. The derived equations and the discussed effects are integrated into an analysis model of a squared unit cell and used to perform a coupled curing thermomechanical simulation. As a result, the development of process-induced stresses is presented with the integration of nonlinear local material effects. Assessment of these effects is one of the key aspects for interpretation of process-induced stresses on the macroscale.
Degradation of carbon/vinyl ester composites under cathodic polarization in seawater
Authors: Tang Yuming , Hartt William , Granata Richard , Yu Hui , Farooq Muhammad U
Published: February 2012

The flexural properties of carbon/vinylester composites under free corrosion and varying degrees of cathodic polarization in seawater were investigated at three different temperatures. It was determined that both the flexural modulus and flexural strength decreased with the increase in cathodic polarization. Also, flexural properties were slightly higher at 40°C than at either 20°C or 60°C. Scanning electron micrographs showed that the polymer matrix was locally removed and some carbon fibers released from the specimens under cathodic potential.
Effects of seawater immersion on water absorption and mechanical properties of GFRP composites
Authors: Bian Liping , Xiao Jiayu , Zeng Jingcheng , Xing Suli
Published: February 2012

Water absorption behavior and mechanical properties of specimens of an epoxy resin casting and the glass fiber reinforced epoxy matrix composites (GFRP) with two fiber volume fractions ( Vf) immersed into artificial seawater were investigated. The composite specimens absorbed less water than the resin casting because water absorption by the matrices was the main way in the composites. The composites with a Vf of 44% absorbed more water than the composites with a Vf of 34% because there were more micropores inside the fiber bundles and capillary paths in the higher fiber volume fractions. Due to the reversible and irreversible changes in the resin casting and the failure of the fiber/matrix interface, the tensile strength, the flexural strength, and the ILSS of the composite specimens after 42 days’ immersion decreased 13%, 43%, 50%, respectively. And the tensile strength, the flexural strength and the ILSS of the specimens after desorption were 97%, 38%, and 43% of the original state, respectively.
Effects of nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of rice straw/polypropylene composites
Authors: Ashori Alireza
Published: February 2012

Rice straw is an abundantly available and potentially valuable biomass that is currently underexploited. In the present work, the reinforcing effects of nanoparticles (silica and clay) on the rice straw / polypropylene composites have been studied. In the sample preparation, four levels of loading (0–3 wt%) were used for nanoparticles. In order to increase the interphase adhesion, polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride was added as coupling agent to all the composites studied. The mechanical properties, namely, the tensile modulus, flexural modulus, notched Izod impact strength, and elongation at break of the composites were determined. The results showed that while tensile and flexural moduli and elongation were moderately improved by the increase in the amount of nanoparticles in the matrix, Izod impact strengths decreased dramatically. The flexural and tensile moduli increased with increase of nanoclay up to 2 wt%. However, beyond this amount, mentioned properties decreased. Generally, high amount (3 wt%) of nano‐size particles in the composites can lead to the reduction of interfacial adhesion between matrix polymer and filler, and it limits their applications. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the existence of uniform intercalated nanoclay dispersed throughout the matrix at 1 and 2 wt% loading. The mechanical properties of composites filled with nanoclay are generally greater than nanosilica composites.
Tensile properties of a carbon fiber 2D woven reinforced polymer matrix composite in through-thickness direction
Authors: Chen Dingding , Lu Fangyun , Jiang Banghai
Published: February 2012

A 2D woven reinforced composite is a typical engineering material used in aerospace applications. For the thickness of these laminated composites is no longer thin, the stress state cannot be considered planar. Therefore, it is necessary to focus on the material’s mechanical properties in the through-thickness (abbreviated TT) direction to fully evaluate their mechanical properties. This article considers the tensile properties of a carbon fiber 2D woven reinforced polymer matrix composite in the TT direction under quasi-static and impact loadings. The quasi-static and impact tensile experiments were performed using a material testing machine and split Hopkinson tensile bars, respectively. The micrographs of the fracture surfaces were examined using scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis. The results show that, before fracture, the material deforms in the linear elastic mode; the TT tensile strength and ultimate strain are very low; the tensile strength increases significantly with increasing loading rates, and the breakage mode changes. An interpretation on the different breakage modes observed is proposed from the point of view of crack propagation. A simple numerical simulation based on ABAQUS is performed to prove that the mesostructure and layer displacements are the two key factors that affect the TT tensile properties. Additionally, an unexpected result, a two-peak stress–strain curve, was found in one of our experiments. By combining the results with the SEM images, a reasonable explanation is proposed.
Gum Containing Calcium Fluoride Reinforces Enamel Subsurface Lesions in situ
Authors: Kitasako Y. , Sadr A. , Hamba H. , Ikeda M. , Tagami J.
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of chewing gum containing phosphoryl oligosaccharides of calcium (POs-Ca) and a low concentration of fluoride (F) on the hardness of enamel subsurface lesions, utilizing a double-blind, randomized, and controlled in situ model. Fifteen individuals wore removable lingual appliances with 3 bovine-enamel insets containing subsurface demineralized lesions. Three times a day for 14 days, they chewed one of the 3 chewing gums (placebo, POs-Ca, POs-Ca+F). After the treatment period, cross-sectional mineral content, nanoindentation hardness, and fluoride ion mapping by time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) were evaluated. Although there were no statistical differences in overall mineral content and hardness recovery rates between POs-Ca and POs-Ca+F subsurface lesions (p > 0.05), nanoindentation at 1-μm distance increments from the surface showed statistical differences in hardness recovery rate between POs-Ca and POs-Ca+F in the superficial 20-μm region (p < 0.05). Fluoride mapping revealed distribution of the ion up to 20 μm from the surface in the POs-Ca+F group. Nanoindentation and TOF-SIMS results highlighted the benefits of bioavailability of fluoride ion on reinforcement of the superficial zone of subsurface lesions in situ (NCT01377493).
Sixty Years Later
Authors: Hocoy Dan
Published: February 2012

This year marks the 60th anniversary of Jung’s (1952) concept of synchronicity; a survey of popular books and academic publications indicates that the idea has never been more popular. The unique longevity and cultural impact of synchronicity, compared with other notions of its era, is worthy of discussion. This article explores the multiple factors that seem to have synergistically converged to maintain its relevance. Human existential needs for meaning, connection, and agency appear to make up the “fertile ground,” while personal experiences of meaningful coincidences, especially profound and numinous ones, seem to constitute the “seed” of belief in synchronicity. The New Age Movement may provide the favorable environmental conditions for the idea to flourish, and the association with physics and explicit support by celebrated scientists serve to enhance its credibility and ensure its survival. If the past is any indication of the future, a coincidence of the necessary conditions will persist synchronistically, and the meme will continue to thrive for some time to come.
The Effects of a Positive Mindset Trigger Word Pre-Performance Routine on the Expressive Performance of Junior High Age Singers
Authors: Broomhead Paul , Skidmore Jon B. , Eggett Dennis L. , Mills Melissa M.
Published: February 2012

The effects of a positive mindset trigger word intervention on the expressive performance of individual junior high singers were tested in this study. Participants ( N = 155) were assigned randomly to a control group or an experimental group. Members of the experimental group participated in a 40-min intervention while members of the control group participated in normal rehearsal. The intervention involved a pre-performance routine of breathing and silently repeating the words bold, confident, and free. It also involved practice activities for applying the technique to performance. Participants were tested individually directly before and after the intervention and 2 weeks later. Results indicated a significant positive effect on Overall Expressive Performance ( p < .001) and on the subcategories Dynamics ( p < .001), Performance Factors ( p < .001), and Timing ( p < .001). There was no significant effect on subcategories Articulation ( p = .195) and Tone ( p = .035). Implications were that (1) use of positive mindset trigger words in a pre-performance routine may bring immediate improvement in expressive performance for junior high age singers, (2) junior high age singers may possess higher levels of expressive performance skill than they or teachers recognize, and (3) review and repetition likely are needed for junior high age students to retain the intervention benefits.
The Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Zaleplon Delivered as a Thermally Generated Aerosol in a Single Breath to Volunteers
Authors: Avram Michael J. , Spyker Daniel A. , Kehne John H. , Cassella James V.
Published: February 2012

Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety, and tolerability of inhaled zaleplon were assessed in healthy volunteers. Forty participants received 0.5, 1, 2, or 4 mg zaleplon or placebo as a thermally generated aerosol in a randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group, dose escalation study. Blood was collected up to 24 hours after dosing, and sedation was assessed up to 8 hours. Following inhalation, the observed median time to maximum plasma concentrations (25%, 75%) was 1.89 (1.45, 3.08) minutes and the mean (SD) elimination half‐life was 1.24 (0.24) hours. The equilibration half‐life for sedation (t1/2ke0) was 1.16 (0.62, 2.17) minutes. The zaleplon AUC was dose proportional across doses, with a slope (90% confidence interval) of log‐AUC versus log‐dose of 0.92 (0.82, 1.02). No clinically significant changes were noted in laboratory values, vital signs, or spirometry. The most common adverse events were dizziness, somnolence, euphoria, headache, and visual disturbance. Zaleplon inhalation represents a safe, well‐tolerated means of rapidly achieving effective plasma concentrations.
Exposure‐Exposure Relationship of Tocilizumab, an Anti–IL‐6 Receptor Monoclonal Antibody, in a Large Population of Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Levi Micha , Grange Susan , Frey Nicolas
Published: February 2012

Relationships between tocilizumab exposure and response were evaluated using data from 4 phase III studies. Increased tocilizumab exposure was associated with improvements in Disease Activity Score using 28 joints (DAS28) and American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and with a decrease in inflammation markers. A population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PKPD) model was developed to describe data from 2 studies. An indirect‐response model with a sigmoid Emax (maximal drug effect) inhibitory drug effect on DAS28 “production” rate adequately described the relationship between tocilizumab concentration and DAS28. Mean minimum serum tocilizumab concentration at steady state was greater than the EC50 (concentration at which 50% of Emax on DAS28 is reached) with the 8‐mg/kg dose but not with the 4‐mg/kgdose. Simulations within a large rheumatoid arthritis (RA) population showed that DAS remission rates were 38% for 8 mg/kg and 24% for 4 mg/kg. Tocilizumab was more potent in RA patients with higher baseline interleukin‐6 levels, but this effect was not clinically significant. Other covariates (eg, presence of neutralizing antitocilizumab antibodies) did not demonstrate a clinically meaningful effect on tocilizumab DAS28 dose‐response relationships. These data support clinical observations that tocilizumab 8 mg/kg is more effective than 4 mg/kg in reducing disease activity.
The Utility of the HCR-20 and PCL:SV in the Prediction of Diversion Noncompliance and Reincarceration in Diversion Programs
Authors: Barber-Rioja Virginia , Dewey Lauren , Kopelovich Sarah , Kucharski L. Thomas
Published: February 2012

Diversion programs were developed to decrease the number of incarcerated mentally ill individuals. The number of diversion programs and mental health courts is rapidly growing, and an increased number of diversion programs are willing to accept defendants charged with violent felonies, stressing the need for thorough risk assessments as part of diversion eligibility evaluations. This study was designed to examine the utility of the Historical–Clinical–Risk Management–20 (HCR-20) and Psychopathy Checklist Screening Version (PCL:SV) in predicting diversion noncompliance and reincarceration in a sample of 131 defendants participating in different diversion programs in New York. Results provided support for the use of the HCR-20 and PCL:SV in the context of diversion, although the HCR-20 proved to be superior to the PCL:SV in predicting diversion noncompliance and reincarceration.
Protecting Mobile Livelihoods
Authors: Zhang Heather Xiaoquan
Published: February 2012

Drawing on extensive fieldwork in Beijing and Tianjin, and applying a livelihood framework combined with a well-being perspective, this article examines an important aspect of rural–urban migrants’ social protection in China, namely migrants’ health, in particular work safety and occupational health. It argues that migrant workers’ social rights to health and livelihoods are a fiercely contested domain of citizenship entailing aspects of exclusion, inclusion, and control and allocation of economic, social, and political resources. The article shows that in spite of the accelerated pace of legislation and consolidated efforts to reconstruct the welfare system in China in recent years, the new social security schemes have thus far, by and large, failed to protect migrant workers in a systematic manner. The issues raised in the article therefore call for greater academic attention and more effective public policy responses.
Rhetorical Reckoning
Authors: Vancouver Jeffrey B.
Published: February 2012

This comment is a response to Bandura’s guest editorial (Journal of Management, Vol. 38, no. 1, January 2012) on the functional properties of perceived self-efficacy. The focus of this comment is on the limitations inherent in natural language (i.e., verbal) theories and critiques, which the research regarding self-efficacy has highlighted and Bandura’s editorial underscores. Specifically, it is argued that Bandura’s comment is replete with rhetorical fallacies and theoretical contradictions. Several examples are described to both provide a tutorial on rhetorical sleight of hand and to set the record straight. Computational modeling and logical reasoning are presented as an alternative approach to better scientific theorizing and critique.
A 7‐Year Review of the Safety of Tonsillectomy during Short‐Term Medical Mission Trips
Authors: Sykes Kevin J. , Le Phong T. , Sale Keith A. , Nicklaus Pamela J.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To evaluate the safety of tonsillectomy in a short‐term medical mission setting.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Catholic mission hospital in Guatemala.

Subjects and Methods

During 7 consecutive annual mission trips from 2004 to 2010, patients received tonsillectomy and adenotonsillectomy. Established safety protocol requires candidates for tonsillectomy to agree to stay within 1 hour of the hospital for 10 days following the operation. This study includes all tonsillectomy patients regardless of age or indication for tonsillectomy. The primary outcome measures include posttonsillectomy hemorrhage, nasopharyngeal reflux, readmission for dehydration, and mortality. This is a novel study as the work performed by most short‐term medical missions is unregulated and unevaluated.

Results

Medical charts were available for 197 (96.6%) of the 204 patients receiving tonsillectomy in the 7‐year period; this was the only inclusion criterion. Ninety‐nine (50.3%) patients had tonsillectomy concomitantly with adenoidectomy. Patients ranged in age from 3 to 66 years. The mean (SD) age was 17.2 (14.0) years. The study team found documentation of postoperative complications in 3 (1.5%) patients; 2 experienced postoperative hemorrhage, 1 within the first postoperative hour and 1 at 96 hours. The final patient returned to the hospital within 24 hours symptomatic for dehydration.

Conclusions

The authors have evaluated a protocol for tonsillectomy patients in a specific setting and believe their data represent satisfactory outcomes for the reviewed patients. The generalizability of this information is uncertain, but safety protocols should be established on all short‐term medical missions to prevent untoward complications.