bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durability of FRP-confined concrete
Authors: Micelli F. , Myers J. J.
Published: October 2008

In the last decade fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been successfully used for confinement of reinforced concrete (RC) and masonry columns. Their high mechanical properties, light weight and low installation costs have contributed to making the wet layup wrapping one of the most affordable techniques for column confinement. Although previous studies have demonstrated the high performance of FRP strengthening systems, there are several concerns related to the long-term behaviour of wrapped columns which have limited full implementation. It is well known that after cracking of the concrete core, the development of an elastic pressure produced by the FRP jacket increases the strength and ductility of the unconfined column. Nevertheless, environmental effects, such as freeze–thaw cycles, wet–dry cycles, ultraviolet radiation exposure and de-icing salt solutions may affect the material properties, and therefore the structural response of the wrapped elements. In this study an experimental investigation was performed in order to study the long-term behaviour of FRP-confined columns. Glass and carbon FRP systems were used to wrap small-scale concrete cylinders that were subjected to environmental cycles and immersion in aggressive aqueous solutions. Durability effects, due to environmental cycles or immersion in solutions, were found to affect the mechanical properties of FRPconfined concrete.
Superposition Principle and Reciprocity for Pressure Transient Analysis of Data from Interfering Wells
Authors: von Schroeter Thomas , Gringarten Alain C.
Published: October 2008

Based on a linearized model for the isothermal flow of a single, compressible phase through a reservoir of arbitrary shape with impermeable or constant-pressure boundaries and spatially varying, anisotropic rock properties, we develop a multi-well extension of the superposition principle and re-examine the question of reciprocity between wells which may be modelled as point sinks or as extended sinks. In the latter case, we find that the answer depends on the wellbore boundary conditions: Reciprocity holds for infinite conductivity wells, but fails to hold for spatially uniform sink strength. We also derive a multi-well generalization of the fractional transform in the Laplace domain which adds skin and wellbore storage to a reservoir model and find that its impact on reciprocity is neutral: It preserves reciprocity if it holds for the reservoir model.
Semistationary and stationary reflection
Authors: Sakai Hiroshi
Published: October 2008

We study the relationship between the semistationary reflection principle and stationary reflection principles. We show that for all regular cardinals λ ≥ ω2 the semistationary reflection principle in the space [λ]ω implies that every stationary subset of ≔ {α ∈ λ ∣ cf(α) = ω} reflects. We also show that for all cardinals λ ≥ ω3 the semistationary reflection principle in [λ]ω does not imply the stationary reflection principle in [λ]ω.
Nondiversity in substructures
Authors: Schmerl James H.
Published: October 2008

For a model of Peano Arithmetic, let Lt() be the lattice of its elementary substructures, and let Lt+ () be the equivalenced lattice (Lt(),≅), where ≅ is the equivalence relation of isomorphism on Lt(). It is known that Lt+() is always a reasonable equivalenced lattice.

Theorem. Let L be a finite distributive lattice and let (L, E) be reasonable. If 0 is a nonstandard prime model of PA, then 0 has a cofinal extension such that Lt+() ≅ (L,E).

A general method for proving such theorems is developed which, hopefully, will be able to be applied to some nondistributive lattices.
On LP-models of arithmetic
Authors: Paris J. B. , Sirokofskich A.
Published: October 2008

We answer some problems set by Priest in [11] and [12], in particular refuting Priest's Conjecture that all LP-models of Th(ℕ) essentially arise via congruence relations on classical models of Th(ℕ). We also show that the analogue of Priest's Conjecture for IΔ0 + Exp implies the existence of truth definitions for intervals [0, a] ⊂eM ⊨ IΔ0 + Exp in any cut [0, a] ⊂eK ⊆eM closed under successor and multiplication.
κ-stationary subsets of , infinitary games, and distributive laws in Boolean algebras
Authors: Dobrinen Natasha
Published: October 2008

We characterize the (κ, λ, < μ)-distributive law in Boolean algebras in terms of cut and choose games , when μ ≤ κ ≤ λ and κ<κ = κ. This builds on previous work to yield game-theoretic characterizations of distributive laws for almost all triples of cardinals κ, λ, μ with μ ≤ λ, under GCH. In the case when μ ≤ κ ≤ λ and κ<κ = κ, we show that it is necessary to consider whether the κ-stationarity of in the ground model is preserved by . In this vein, we develop the theory of κ-club and κ-stationary subsets of . We also construct Boolean algebras in which Player I wins but the (κ, ∞, κ)-d.1. holds, and, assuming GCH, construct Boolean algebras in which many games are undetermined.
On very high degrees
Authors: Ng Keng Meng
Published: October 2008

In this paper we show that there is a pair of superhigh r.e. degree that forms a minimal pair. An analysis of the proof shows that a critical ingredient is the growth rates of certain order functions. This leads us to investigate certain high r.e. degrees, which resemble ∅′ very closely in terms of ∅′-jump traceability. In particular, we will construct an ultrahigh degree which is cappable.
Weakly pointed trees and partial injections
Authors: Clemens John D.
Published: October 2008

We define the notion of a weakly pointed tree, and characterize the amount of genericity necessary to prevent a uniformly branching tree being weakly pointed. We use these ideas to show there is no topological analogue of a measure-theoretic selection theorem of Graf and Mauldin.
Diabetic Patients’ Medication Underuse, Illness Outcomes, and Beliefs About Antihyperglycemic and Antihypertensive Treatments
Authors: Aikens James E. , Piette John D.
Published: October 2008

OBJECTIVE—The purpose of this study was to determine how patients’ beliefs about antihyperglycemic and antihypertensive medications relate to medication underuse and health status.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In diabetic patients from an economically distressed region, we assessed perceived necessity and harmfulness for antihyperglycemic (n = 803) and antihypertensive (n = 573) medications, past year's medication underuse, A1C, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).

RESULTS—After correction for multiple analyses, multivariate models indicated that perceived need for antihyperglycemic medication was associated with being younger, being prescribed insulin, and being prescribed multiple medications. Concern about antihyperglycemic medications was associated with being younger, African American, dissatisfied with information received about medication, and of low health literacy. For antihypertensives, perceived necessity was associated with having numerous medical comorbidities and being dissatisfied with medication information; concern was associated with being younger, dissatisfied with information received about medication, and of low health literacy. Up to one-half of patients underused at least one of the types of medication; many of these patients attributed this underuse to cost. For both types of medications, concern was significantly associated with both cost-related and non–cost-related underuse, and antihypertensive concern was associated with higher SBP and DBP.

CONCLUSIONS—Even after adjustment for economic factors, patients who are younger, African American, or of low health literacy are especially concerned about medication harmfulness, which is in turn associated with medication underuse and higher blood pressure. To enhance adherence and outcomes, interventions should address patients’ underlying concerns about potential adverse treatment effects and focus on both cultural factors and health literacy.
Intimate social behavior in infant interactions in Cebus apella
Authors: Byrne Gayle , Suomi Stephen J.
Published: October 2008

The development and individual stability of three intimate social behaviors (Lipsmacking, Carrying Attempts, and Facial Inspection) were examined for 43 group‐housed Cebus apella infants from birth to 2 years of age. Occurrence of these behaviors was scored from 10‐min videotape samples recorded three times a week over that time. Frequency of Lipsmacking and Carrying Attempts by adult males, adult females, and juveniles were all highest in early months and decreased to low levels by the end of the first year. Facial Inspection of partners by infants, in contrast, first began at 3–4 months and increased over time, at least to adult males and juveniles. Correlational analyses indicated stable individual differences in these interactions with infants and outlined a relationship between these intimate behaviors and more general social patterns reported previously for these animals. Results suggest that adult males may play a special role in affording juveniles opportunities for social learning of foraging and manipulative skills. Am. J. Primatol. 71:77–85, 2009. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In situ surfactant generation as a means of miniemulsification?
Authors: Saygı‐Arslan Öznur , Sudol E. David , Daniels Eric S. , El‐Aasser Mohamed S. , Klein Andrew
Published: October 2008

In situ emulsification, where the surfactant is synthesized spontaneously at the oil/water interface, has been put forth as a simpler method for the preparation of miniemulsions‐like systems. Miniemulsions are relatively stable oil‐(e.g., monomer)‐in‐water emulsions having droplet sizes anywhere in the range of 50–500 nm, and are typically created with high shear and stabilized by the combination a surfactant and a costabilizer. Using the in situ method of preparation, emulsion stability and droplet and particle sizes were monitored and compared with conventional emulsions and miniemulsions. Styrene emulsions prepared by the in situ method do not demonstrate the stability of a comparable miniemulsion. Upon polymerization, the final particle size generated from the in situ emulsion did not differ significantly from the comparable conventional emulsion polymerization; the reaction mechanism for in situ emulsions is more like conventional emulsion polymerization rather than miniemulsion polymerization. Similar results were found when the in situ method was applied to controlled free radical polymerizations (CFRP), which have been advanced as a potential application of the method. Molecular weight control was found to be achieved via diffusion of the CFRP agents through the aqueous phase owing to limited water solubilities. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Microencapsulation of Zanthoxylum limonella oil (ZLO) in genipin crosslinked chitosan–gelatin complex for mosquito repellent application
Authors: Maji Tarun K. , Hussain Md R.
Published: October 2008

Essential oil containing chitosan gelatin complex microcapsules crosslinked with genipin were prepared by complex coacervation process. The effects of various parameters such as oil loading, ratio of chitosan to gelatin, degree of crosslinking on oil content, encapsulation efficiency, and the release rate of the essential oil were studied. Scanning electron microscopy study indicated that the surface of the microcapsules were more irregular as the amount of oil loading increased. Thermal stability of microcapsules improved with the increase in the amount of chitosan in chitosan–gelatin matrix as revealed by thermogravimetric analysis. FT‐IR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry study indicated that there was no significant interaction between chitosan–gelatin complex and oil. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Study on the thermal conductive polyoxymethylene/graphite composites
Authors: Zhao Xiaowen , Ye Lin
Published: October 2008

The thermal conductive composites of polyoxymethylene (POM)/graphite were prepared through four intercalation methods, including melt (MI), solution (SM), pan milling (SMI), and in situ intercalation (IM). For the purpose of improving the interfacial compatibility of POM/graphite, realizing the exfoliation and nano‐dispersion of graphite in POM matrix, the effect of the type and the content of the graphite, the nature of the coupling agents used in graphite modification on the properties of the composites was studied. The results showed that the thermal conductive properties of POM were improved remarkably from the value of 0.36 W/(m K) for neat POM to the value of 1.15 W/(m K) in presence of 30 wt % graphite, and the composites filled with the coupling agent T‐1 or T‐2 surface‐modified colloidal graphite displayed better thermal conductivity. The degree of layers exfoliation of the graphite was enhanced in the order of MI, SM, SMI, and IM. And the composites prepared by SM, SMI, and IM methods presented much more decreased size, more narrow size distribution, thinner overlapped sheets, and better dispersion of the graphite than that prepared by MI method. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis and characterization of excellent transparency poly(urethane‐methacrylate)
Authors: Fang Shaoming , Gao Lijun , Zhou Liming , Zheng Zexin , Guo Baosong , Zhang Chenggui
Published: October 2008

A series of novel crosslinked poly(urethane–methacrylate) (PUA) was synthesized. PUA was polymerized in a three‐step process: The low number average molecular weight unsaturated polyester (UPE) containing hydroxyl groups was synthesized by 1,2‐propanediol (PG), 2‐butyl‐2‐ethyl‐1,3‐propanediol (BEPD) and maleic anhydride (MA). A series of prepolymers, which had double bonds at the end of the chain, was prepared from isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), UPE, and β‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in the presence of dibutytin dilaurate (DBTL) as catalyst. The novel functional prepolymer was initiated by 2,2‐azobis‐isobutyronitrile(AIBN) to form thermosetting materials. The structure of the thermosetting materials was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). Mechanical, thermal, and optical properties were tested. The results showed that the advanced PUA had good thermal and mechanical properties and high transparence. The throughput of PUA was above 90%, thus the PUA was possible to be used as excellent optical material. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Morphological distribution of polymeric nucleating agents in injection‐molded isotactic polypropylene plates and its influence on nucleating efficiency
Authors: Su Zhi‐Qiang , Chen Xiao‐Nong , Yu Zhong‐Zhen , Zhang Liang
Published: October 2008

The morphological development of a special polymeric nucleating agent [acrylonitrile–styrene copolymer (SAN)] in the isotactic polypropylene (iPP) matrix in the process of injection molding has been investigated by means of wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope. The current experimental results indicate that the shear field, in combination with the temperature gradient, has great influence on the morphological distribution of SAN in the process of injection molding. For injection‐molded SAN/iPP specimens with higher SAN concentration (≥4%), SAN assembles to many microspheres and disperses uniformly in the isotropic core region; while from isotropic core region to oriented skin region, these SAN microspheres are gradually stretched into fibrils as a result of shear effect. On the contrary, for the specimens with lower SAN concentration (<4%), only microspheres can be observed in the core region and the skin region. At the same time, SAN has been proved to be a kind of special β‐nucleating agent. The addition of SAN into iPP helps enhances the crystallinity and the content of β crystal form of injection‐molded specimen. The morphology and the distribution of SAN in iPP matrix have great influence on the SAN's nucleating activity, which will ultimately affect the final crystalline structures of injection‐molded specimens. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Synthesis of hyperbranched organo‐montmorillonite and its application into high‐temperature vulcanizated silicone rubber systems
Authors: Wang Jincheng , Chen Yuehui , Wang Jihu
Published: October 2008

N,N‐Di(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐N‐dodecyl‐N‐methyl ammonium chloride was used as intercalation agent to treat Na+‐montmorillonite and form a type of organic montmorillonite (OMMT). Hyperbranched OMMT (HOMMT) was prepared by condensation reaction between OMMT and the monomer we synthesized. It was then used in the preparation of high‐temperature vulcanizated silicone rubber (HTV‐SR)/HOMMT nanocomposite. Different types of HTV‐SR/HOMMT nanocomposites were prepared with different amounts of HOMMT and compared with the composites directly incorporated with OMMT. Tensile properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, permanent distortion, and shore A hardness were researched and compared. A combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, wide angle X‐ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy studies showed that HTV‐SR/HOMMT composites were on the nanometer scale, and the structure of HTV‐SR was not interfered by the presence of HOMMT. Results showed that the tensile properties of HTV‐SR/HOMMT systems were better than that of the HTV‐SR/HOMMT and HTV‐SR. This was probably due to the surface effect of the exfoliated silicate layers and anchor effect of HOMMT in the SR matrix. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
In situ compatibilization of polypropylene/polystyrene blend by controlled degradation and reactive extrusion
Authors: Li Rongbo , Zhang Xiuqin , Zhou Lijuan , Dong Jinyong , Wang Dujin
Published: October 2008

In situ compatibilization of polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) was achieved by combinative application of tetraethyl thiuram disulfide (TETD) as degradation inhibitor and di‐tert‐butyl peroxide as degradation initiator in the process of reactive extrusion. The PP/PS blends obtained were systematically investigated by rheological measurement, scanning electron microscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry. The results indicate that peroxide‐induced degradation of PP can be effectively depressed by adding TETD, which may favor the formation of PP‐g‐PS copolymer during melt processing. The PP‐g‐PS copolymer formed may act as an in situ compatibilizer for PP/PS blends, and subsequently decreases the size of dispersed PS phase and changes both rheological and thermal properties of the blends. Based on the present experimental results, the mechanisms for the controlled degradation of PP and in situ formation of PP‐g‐PS copolymer in the PP/PS blends have been proposed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Understanding the properties of aerobic sludge granules as hydrogels
Authors: Seviour Thomas , Pijuan Maite , Nicholson Timothy , Keller Jürg , Yuan Zhiguo
Published: October 2008

Aerobic sludge granules are larger, denser microbial aggregates than activated sludge flocs with a smoother and more regular surface, which facilitates greater wastewater treatment intensity. Factors important in their growth are still poorly understood, which is an impediment to the construction and operation of full‐scale aerobic sludge granule processes. Data in this article obtained with granules treating an abattoir wastewater provide evidence that aerobic sludge granules are hydrogels. The results also demonstrate a method for characterizing macromolecular associations. The rheological profile of these granules was found to be analogous with that of typical polymer gels. Water uptake or swelling reflects an equilibrium between granule elastic modulus and osmotic pressure, whereby uptake is increased by reducing solute concentration or the elastic modulus. A weakening of the extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) matrix as demonstrated with mechanical spectroscopy was induced by several environmental factors including temperature, pH and ionic strength. Uniform and elastic deformation was observed at low strain. Enzymatic degradation studies indicate that proteins and α‐polysaccharides were the major granule structural materials. The aerobic sludge granules in the current study were therefore protein–polysaccharide composite physical hydrogels. While aerobic sludge granules treating an abattoir wastewater are used as a case study, many of the fundamental principles detailed here are relevant to other granulation processes. The paradigm established in this study can potentially be applied to better understand the formation of aerobic sludge granules and thus overcome a hurdle in the acceptance of aerobic sludge granulation as an alternative to more traditional wastewater treatment processes. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 1483–1493. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mechanistic studies of displacer–protein binding in chemically selective displacement systems using NMR and MD simulations
Authors: Morrison Christopher J. , Godawat Rahul , McCallum Scott A. , Garde Shekhar , Cramer Steven M.
Published: October 2008

A parallel batch screening technique was employed to identify chemically selective displacers which exhibited exclusive separation behavior for the protein pair α‐chymotrypsin/ribonuclease A on a strong cation exchange resin. Two selective displacers, 1‐(4‐chlorobenzyl)piperidin‐3‐aminesulfate and N′1′‐(4‐methyl‐quinolin‐2‐yl)‐ethane‐1,2‐diamine dinitrate, and one non‐selective displacer, spermidine, were selected as model systems to investigate the mechanism of chemically selective displacement chromatography. Saturation transfer difference (STD) NMR was used to directly evaluate displacer–protein binding. The results indicated that while binding occurred between the two chemically selective displacers and the more hydrophobic protein, α‐chymotrypsin, no binding was observed with ribonuclease A. Further, the non‐selective displacer, spermidine, was not observed to bind to either protein. Importantly, the binding event was observed to occur primarily on the aromatic portion of the selective displacers. Extensive molecular dynamic simulations of protein–displacer–water solution were also carried out. The MD results corroborated the NMR findings demonstrating that the binding of selective displacers occurred primarily on hydrophobic surface patches of α‐chymotrypsin, while no significant long term binding to ribonuclease A was observed. The non‐selective displacer did not show significant binding to either of the proteins. MD simulations also indicated that the charged amine group of the selective displacers in the bound state was primarily oriented towards the solvent, potentially facilitating their interaction with a resin surface. These results directly confirm that selective binding between a protein and displacer is the mechanism by which chemically selective displacement occurs. This opens up many possibilities for future molecular design of selective displacers for a range of applications. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 1428–1437. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Protein instability during HIC: Evidence of unfolding reversibility, and apparent adsorption strength of disulfide bond‐reduced α‐lactalbumin variants
Authors: Deitcher R.W. , Xiao Y. , O'Connell J.P. , Fernandez E.J.
Published: October 2008

A two‐conformation, four‐state model has been proposed to describe protein adsorption and unfolding behavior on hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) resins. In this work, we build upon previous study and application of a four‐state model to the effect of salt concentration on the adsorption and unfolding of the model protein α‐lactalbumin in HIC. Contributions to the apparent adsorption strength of the wild‐type protein from native and unfolded conformations, obtained using a deuterium labeling technique, reveal the free energy change and kinetics of unfolding on the resin, and demonstrate that surface unfolding is reversible. Additionally, variants of α‐lactalbumin in which one of the disulfide bonds is reduced were synthesized to examine the effects of conformational stability on apparent retention. Below the melting temperatures of the wild‐type protein and variants, reduction of a single disulfide bond significantly increases the apparent adsorption strength (∼6–8 kJ/mol) due to increased instability of the protein. Finally, the four‐state model is used to accurately predict the apparent adsorption strength of a disulfide bond‐reduced variant. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;102: 1416–1427. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Attachment of Different Donor Groups to a Cryptand for Modulation of Two‐Photon Absorption Cross‐Section
Authors: Jana Atanu , Jang So Young , Shin Jae‐Yoon , Kumar De Arijit , Goswami Debabrata , Kim Dongho , Bharadwaj Parimal K.
Published: October 2008

Two‐photon absorption (TPA) properties of a laterally nonsymmetric aza cryptand with attached side arms have been investigated. This series of Schiff base derivatives supports the mechanistic approach for enhancing the TPA process, which is usually dictated by molecular geometry, π‐bridging, delocalization length, and corresponding charge‐transfer possibilities. The results described here suggest that on increasing the branching units, the TPA cross‐section, σ(2), can be tuned to a larger value. The TPA activity is “switched on” when a metal atom enters the cavity and serves as a conduit of electronic delocalization. The σ(2) value increases as the donor strength increases. The maximum value is obtained on moving from the single‐branched system to the nearly threefold symmetry. This serves as a useful synthetic strategy for designing novel octupolar molecules with high σ(2) values. Theoretical calculations at the B3LYP functional with the 6–31G* basis set under DFT formalism provide supporting evidence that the communication between the side arms through the metal d orbital and more ordered geometry of chromophores leads to a smaller HOMO–LUMO gap, which has a great influence upon the electronic properties of the molecules.
Highly selective single nucleotide polymorphism recogniton by a chiral (5S) PNA beacon
Authors: Totsingan Filbert , Tedeschi Tullia , Sforza Stefano , Corradini Roberto , Marchelli Rosangela
Published: October 2008

A chiral peptide nucleic acid (PNA) beacon containing a C‐5 modified monomer based on L‐lysine was synthesized. The terminal amino group of the lysine side chain was linked to a spacer for future applications on surfaces. The PNA beacon bears a carboxyfluorescein fluorophore and a dabcyl quencher at opposite ends. The DNA binding properties were compared with those of a homologous PNA beacon containing only achiral monomers. Both beacons underwent a fluorescence increase in the presence of complementary DNA, with higher efficiency and higher selectivity (evaluated using single mismatched DNA sequences) observed for the chiral monomer containing PNA. Ion exchange (IE) HPLC with fluorimetric detection was used in combination with the beacon for the selective detection of complementary DNA. A fluorescent peak corresponding to the PNA beacon:DNA duplex was observed at a very low detection limit (1 nM). The discriminating capacity of the chiral PNA beacon for a single mismatch was found to be superior to those observed with the unmodified one, thus confirming the potency of chirality for increasing the affinity and specificity of DNA recognition. Chirality, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atorvastatin Therapy Is Associated with Reduced Levels of N‐terminal Prohormone Brain Natriuretic Peptide and Improved Cardiac Function in Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Stypmann Jörg , Schubert Aurelien , Welp Henryk , Schulte Helmut , Assmann Gerd , Breithardt Günter , Nofer Jerzy‐Roch
Published: October 2008

Background

Statins have been suggested to improve cardiac function, but the evidence underlying beneficial effects of statins in heart failure (HF) is insufficient. We analyzed plasma N‐terminal prohormone brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) levels and cardiac function in patients with HF of various etiologies, and who were treated with or without statins.

Hypothesis

Statin treatment is associated with improved cardiac function in HF.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of 139 consecutive male patients receiving atorvastatin (n = 44), simvastatin (n = 29), pravastatin (n = 19), or no statin (n = 47). The NT‐proBNP levels were measured using electroluminescence immunoassay. Left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD), fractional shortening (FS), and ejection fraction (EF) were determined by echocardiography.

Results

Patients receiving atorvastatin presented with reduced NT‐proBNP levels (1,552 ± 3,416 versus 3,771 ± 6,763 pg/mL; p < 0.01), and improved values of LVEDD (65.2 ± 8.9 versus 70.7 ± 10.9 mm; p < 0.05) and EF (33.2 ± 12.6 versus 28.2 ± 9.6%; p < 0.05). By contrast, plasma NT‐proBNP and cardiac parameters in patients treated with statins other than atorvastatin did not significantly differ from control. Atorvastatin treatment was equally effective in patients with ischemic and nonischemic HF.

Conclusions

Atorvastatin treatment is associated with improved cardiac function in HF, and may represent an additional option for patients with this disease. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relationship Between Alcohol Habits and Hemorheology by a Micro Channel Method in a General Population
Authors: Kotani Kazuhiko , Adachi Seiji , Osaki Yoneatsu , Kurozawa Youichi , Araga Shigeru
Published: October 2008

Background

Hemorheology plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease. The Micro Channel array Flow Analyzer (MC‐FAN) (Hitachi Haramachi Electronics Co., Ltd., Bentencho, Japan) is currently considered a useful new device to analyze hemorheology. However, the relationships between various lifestyle habits and hemorheology, especially using MC‐FAN, have still not been thoroughly investigated.

Hypothesis

The study was undertaken to determine whether there could be some correlations of lifestyle factors to hemorheology by MC‐FAN.

Methods

A total of 250 asymptomatic Japanese subjects (male:female = 100:150; mean age = 49.7 y) without any medication were enrolled in the present study. Hemorheology was assessed by the whole blood passage time (WBPT) and was corrected by the saline passage time using MC‐FAN. Subjects' lifestyle factors, such as smoking habits, alcohol habits, and physical activity, were self‐reported.

Results

Partial correlation analysis for WBPT, after controlling for age, gender, hematocrit, white blood cell count, body mass index, blood pressure, blood biochemical measures, and all lifestyle habits, revealed a significant and inverse correlation between alcohol habits of 1–3 go (amount of alcohol intake) and WBPT (r = − 0.191, p = 0.003), in addition to a significant positive correlation between serum low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and WBPT.

Conclusions

These data suggest that alcohol habits may beneficially affect hemorheology by MC‐FAN, expanding the protective effect of light‐to‐moderate alcohol consumption against cardiovascular disease. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Should We Revascularize Before Implanting a Pacemaker?
Authors: Yesil Murat , Bayata Serdar , Arikan Erdinc , Yilmaz Rustem , Postaci Nursen
Published: October 2008

Background

The effect of coronary revascularization on disappearance of the severe conduction disturbances is still unclear.

Hypothesis

We sought to determine whether revascularization may induce recovery of sinus rhythm in patients with significant coronary artery disease and complete atrioventricular block (AVB).

Methods

Fifty‐three patients who had third‐degree AVB and significant coronary artery disease were enrolled. Patients with acute coronary syndromes were excluded. Thirty‐three (62%) patients were men and the mean age was 65 ± 10 y. All patients received a permanent dual‐mode, dual‐pacing, dual‐sensing (DDD) pacemaker. Coronary disease was treated medically in 16 (30%) patients due to patient preference or ineligibility. Thirty‐seven (70%) patients underwent a revascularization procedure (coronary artery bypass grafting [CABG]: 16, percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]: 21 pts). Mean follow‐up was 36 ± 6 mo and patients were evaluated every 3 mo according to their resting electrocardiograms (ECGs) at each visit.

Results

In the medically treated group, 13 (81%) patients still had third‐degree AVBs at the end of the follow‐up period, while 3 (19%) patients returned to normal sinus rhythm. On the other hand, 27 out of 37 patients (73%) who were revascularized were still in complete AVB, and 10 patients from this group (27%) had returned to normal sinus rhythm. There was no statistically significant difference between the revascularized and medically treated groups in terms of need for a pacemaker.

Conclusions

Patients who have concomitant severe conduction disturbances and significant coronary disease may well receive a pacemaker before a revascularization procedure. Our data shows that coronary revascularization has little, if any, impact on returning to normal AV conduction. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Predictors of Very Late Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation After Circumferential Pulmonary Vein Ablation
Authors: Ma Changsheng , Liu Xingpeng , Dong Jianzeng , Long Deyong , Tang Ribo , Zheng Bin , Kang Junping , Yu Ronghui , Tian Ying , Ma Changsheng
Published: October 2008

Background

Early recurrence of atrial fibrillation (ERAF) after catheter ablation is common and has been thoroughly studied. However, very late recurrence of atrial fibrillation (VLRAF) is rarely researched, and its characteristics have not been determined.

Hypothesis

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of VLRAF after circumferential pulmonary vein ablation (CPVA), and to identify the risk factors for VLRAF.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 259 consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who were referred for CPVA. Clinical variables were investigated and predictors of VLRAF were identified.

Results

A total of 249 patients were enrolled in this study. After a mean follow‐up of 18.2 ± 4.4 mo, 14 patients (5.6%) had VLRAF. Patients with VLRAF were more likely than those without recurrence to have ERAF (78.6% versus 17.8%, p = 0.000) and persistent AF (50.0% versus 13.0%, p = 0.000), but were less likely to achieve pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (78.6% versus 97.6%, p = 0.000). Bivariate analysis demonstrated that ERAF (odds ratio [OR] 8.148, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.197–30.222; p = 0.002), persistent AF (OR 8.853, 95% CI 1.773–16.155; p = 0.003), and lack of PV isolation (OR 7.530, 95% CI 1.792–33.122; p = 0.006) were related to VLRAF. Multivariate logistic regression analysis only identified ERAF as a predictor of VLRAF after CPVA (OR 7.461, 95% CI 1.696–24.836; p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Very late recurrence of AF is uncommon after CPVA. That occurs more commonly in patients with ERAF. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cardiac Transplantation and Survival
Authors: Richard Conti C.
Published: October 2008

I don't make any claims to be an expert in managing patients after cardiac transplantation, but I do recall 2 patients which I believe make the point that times have changed since the beginning of cardiac transplantation. In 1968, a patient of mine underwent cardiac transplantation. This was the first transplantation done at Johns Hopkins, and I believe it was 99th in the world. This patient survived the surgery very well, left the hospital, and in 4 wk he was dead. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Symmetry‐aware placement algorithm using transitive closure graph representation for analog integrated circuits
Authors: Zhang Lihong , Zhang Yuping , Jiang Yingtao , Shi C.‐J.Richard
Published: October 2008

Recently several topological representations have been explored as alternatives to the conventional absolute‐coordinate representation for integrated circuit layout automation. Those topological representations, however, lack one or more aspects in capturing the solution space subject to symmetry constraints, which are abundant in analog layouts.

In this paper, we explore the use of transitive closure graphs (TCGs) to represent analog placements, i.e. placements with symmetry constraints. We define a set of conditions so that a TCG satisfying these conditions, referred to as asymmetric‐feasible TCG, will correspond to a valid symmetric placement and vice versa. We then present anO(n2) algorithm, wherenis the number of cells to be placed, to build a symmetric placement from a symmetric‐feasible TCG, a problem known as packing.

We further describe a set of random perturbation operations on existing symmetric‐feasible TCGs to generate new symmetric‐feasible TCGs with time complexity ofO(n) . This allows our TCG‐based symmetry‐aware analog placer to search only the symmetric‐feasible TCG solution space, leading to a substantial reduction of the search space and solution time. Experimental results on several analog circuits have confirmed the superiority of the TCG representation to the conventional absolute‐coordinate representation as well as several other topological representations in analog layout design. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transcription expression and clinical significance of TTF‐1 mRNA in pleural effusion of patients with lung cancer
Authors: Jiang Bing , Wu Guang‐Ping , Zhao Yu‐Jie , Wang Shao‐Cheng
Published: October 2008

The aim of this study was to evaluate diagnostic utility of thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF‐1) mRNA in pleural effusions (PEs) of patients with lung cancer, especially primary pulmonary adenocarcinoma (PPA). Transcription levels of TTF‐1 were detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in PEs of patients with lung cancer (56 cases) and with lung benign diseases (44 cases). The expression rate of TTF‐1 mRNA was significantly higher in PEs of patients with lung cancer (73.2%) than with benign lung diseases (0%). In subclasses, the expression rate of TTF‐1 mRNA was obviously higher in PEs of patients with PPA (93.0%) than with metastatic pulmonary adenocarcnoma (0%) and with primary pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma (12.5%). When compared with immunocytochemistry and cytology, TTF‐1 mRNA gave the best diagnostic performance in diagnosing PPA: sensitivity of 93.0%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 96.6%, respectively. As a molecular marker of detecting pleural micrometastasis, TTF‐1 mRNA may be helpful to diagnose the cancer cells in PEs of patients with lung caner, especially with PPA. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of Castleman disease: Case report with review of the literature
Authors: Deschênes Majorie , Michel René P. , Tabah Roger , Auger Manon
Published: October 2008

Organs involved by Castleman disease (CD) may be investigated by fine‐needle aspiration cytology. No specific cytomorphological criteria are currently described for a definitive diagnosis. The cytological features of three fine‐needle aspirations from three different lymph nodes of a patient with histologically confirmed CD of the hyaline‐vascular type are herein reported, with a review of the literature. The fine‐needle aspirations showed branching capillaries associated with fragments of germinal center. Review of the literature yielded 12 other case reports with over half describing similar findings. Because branching hyalinized small blood vessels penetrating follicular germinal center are characteristic of CD of the hyaline‐vascular type on histology, this finding in fine‐needle aspirates should raise that diagnostic possibility. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary soft tissue hydatidosis: Aspiration cytological diagnosis in two cases
Authors: Gupta Ruchika , Mathur Sandeep R. , Agarwala Sandeep , Kaushal Seema , Srivastav Anurag
Published: October 2008

The most common sites of cysts caused by hydatid disease are liver and lung. In the absence of visceral involvement, the disease rarely affects musculoskeletal and soft tissues. In such locations, hydatid cyst mimics commoner soft tissue tumors.

A 12‐year‐old girl presented with a gradually increasing painless right shoulder swelling. With a clinical diagnosis of lipoma, fine needle aspiration cytology was performed, which showed cytomorphological features of a hydatid cyst. Another patient, a 20‐year‐old man, presented with a right paravertebral soft tissue swelling. Radiological investigations did not reveal any bony abnormality or features of intervertebral disc prolapse and thus, a clinical diagnosis of a paravertebral soft tissue tumor was considered. Fine needle aspiration from the soft tissue swelling showed laminated membrane, compatible with hydatid cyst. No visceral involvement was detected in either of the cases.

Parasitic cysts, although rare, should be kept in the list of cytological differential diagnosis of soft tissue lesions. Occurrence of hydatid cyst in a soft tissue location is extremely rare. Aspiration cytology can be used efficiently in the diagnosis without the risk of spillage of contents. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A meta‐analysis of comparing fine‐needle aspiration and frozen section for evaluating thyroid nodules
Authors: Peng Yan , Wang Helen H.
Published: October 2008

The literature on comparing fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and frozen section for evaluating thyroid nodules was reviewed. Publications on this subject were divided into three groups (follicular lesions, non‐follicular lesions and thyroid lesions, not otherwise specified). A meta‐analysis was done to compare sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values between FNA and frozen section diagnoses. For follicular lesions, FNA was much more sensitive but less specific, with lower positive predictive value than frozen section. FNA and frozen section are virtually identical in all parameters of accuracy in evaluating thyroid nodules that are not follicular lesions. The third group of publications that did not separate/specify follicular lesions from non‐follicular lesions was non‐contributory. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
BAL in the diagnosis of smoking‐related interstitial lung diseases: Review of literature and analysis of our experience
Authors: Domagała‐Kulawik Joanna
Published: October 2008

The group of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) is formed by respiratory tract disorders, whose aetiology is unknown in the majority of cases, the clinical course differs and the prognosis is generally serious. Some of the ILDs have a potential relation to tobacco smoking and are known as smoking‐related ILDs (sr‐ILD). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) examination is one of the initial procedures in the diagnosis of ILD. Despite the fact that histological confirmation is the gold standard in ILD diagnosis in many studies, the number of reported biopsies was low. In this review we present the results of BALF examinations of patients with sr‐ILD and discuss their value in the differential diagnosis with other types of ILD.

An extremely high total cell count (about 50 × 106 cells) with significant predominance of pigmented alveolar macrophages is a characteristic pattern of BALF in sr‐ILD. The greatest challenge in BALF cytology interpretation is to distinguish sr‐ILD and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). IPF is characterised by an elevated proportion and absolute count of lymphocytes and neutrophils; in addition, BALF lymphocytosis is higher in non‐specific interstitial pneumonia than in usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP). The population of alveolar macrophage of patients with sr‐ILD differs markedly from the foamy and vacuolated cells that predominate in IPF/UIP. Thus, the absence of pigmented cells rather excludes sr‐ILD and indicates other types of ILD. To summarise, the place of BALF in the diagnosis of sr‐ILD seems to be established. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytologic imprints of giant atypical bronchopulmonary carcinoid tumor of the lung with extensive oncocytic component
Authors: McIntire Maria , Shah Neha D. , Kim Anthony W. , Gattuso Paolo , Liptay Michael J.
Published: October 2008

Bronchopulmonary carcinoid tumors are found in less than 2 of 100,000 people yearly and comprise approximately 1–2% of all lung neoplasms. They are usually diagnosed in the fifth decade of life and occur more frequently in women. Most are central and endobronchial in location. The symptoms presented are those associated with bronchial obstruction, such as coughing, wheezing, and dyspnea. Over one‐third of patients are asymptomatic and have an incidentally detected peripheral pulmonary nodule. Diagnosis is usually made by bronchoscopy with bronchial brushings or biopsy. We present the cytologic imprint findings of a case of a 66‐year‐old man with an atypical giantbronchopulmonary carcinoid with extensive oncocytic component, who underwent a total right pneumonectomy. Diagn. Cytopathol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
End‐on imaging: A new perspective on dorsoventral development in Drosophila embryos
Authors: Witzberger Melissa M. , Fitzpatrick James A.J. , Crowley Justin C. , Minden Jonathan S.
Published: October 2008

Drosophila ventral furrow formation has frequently been used as a model to study developmentally‐regulated cell‐shape changes. However, a technique to follow all cellular changes during this process within a single living embryo has been lacking. We describe a novel technique, called “end‐on imaging”, to collect time‐lapse images of transversely mounted living embryos. End‐on imaging revealed several new features of dorsoventral development. First, we observed a wave of syncytial nuclear divisions predicting the location of the ventral furrow. Second, we determined that there is a 5‐min gap between the end of cellularization and the start of ventral furrow formation, suggesting that the two processes may share the same pool of cytoskeletal components. Lastly, we show that apical‐membrane flattening, the first step in ventral furrow formation, is due to the ventral cells pushing against the vitelline membrane, rather than flattening the dome‐shaped, apical surfaces of these cells by a pulling or constriction motion. Developmental Dynamics 237:3252–3259, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.