bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Existence, Uniqueness, and Basis Properties of Radial Eigenfunctions of a Semilinear Second‐Order Elliptic Equation in a Ball
Authors: Zhidkov Peter
Published: November 2009

We consider the following eigenvalue problem: −Δu + f(u) = λu, u = u(x), x ∈ B = {x ∈ ℝ3 : |x| < 1}, u(0) = p > 0, u||x|=1 = 0, where p is an arbitrary fixed parameter and f is an odd smooth function. First, we prove that for each integer n ≥ 0 there exists a radially symmetric eigenfunction un which possesses precisely n zeros being regarded as a function of r = |x| ∈ [0, 1). For p > 0 sufficiently small, such an eigenfunction is unique for each n. Then, we prove that if p > 0 is sufficiently small, then an arbitrary sequence of radial eigenfunctions , where for each n the nth eigenfunction un possesses precisely n zeros in [0, 1), is a basis in ( is the subspace of L2(B) that
consists of radial functions from L2(B). In addition, in the latter case, the sequence is a Bari basis in the same space.
Congenital Epulis: A Case Report and Estimation of Incidence
Authors: Bosanquet David , Roblin Graham
Published: November 2009

Congenital Epulis, also known as Neumann's tumour, is a rare congenital growth affecting the gingival mucosa of neonates. It is benign condition, seen more frequently in females, with multiple Epuli occurring in only 10% of cases. The cause and origin of Congenital Epulis remains unclear. In this article we present a case report of an otherwise healthy female neonate with two Congenital Epuli arising from the upper and lower gingival margin, which were successfully treated with surgical excision. We also present a review of the literature and an estimation of the incidence of Congenital Epulis based on our institutions figures, of 0.0006% (upper 95% confidence interval: 0.0035%).
Rad As a Novel Regulator of Excitation–Contraction Coupling and β-Adrenergic Signaling in Heart
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhu Xiaojun , Xie Wenjun , Han Peidong , Li Kaitao , Sun Zhongcui , Wang Yanru , Chen Chunlei , Song Ruisheng , Cao Chunmei , Zhang Jifeng , Wu Caihong , Liu Jie , Cheng Heping
Published: November 2009

Rationale
:

Rad (Ras associated with diabetes) GTPase, a monomeric small G protein, binds to Ca
v
β subunit of the L-type Ca
2+
channel (LCC) and thereby regulates LCC trafficking and activity. Emerging evidence suggests that Rad is an important player in cardiac arrhythmogenesis and hypertrophic remodeling. However, whether and how Rad involves in the regulation of excitation–contraction (EC) coupling is unknown.

Objective
:

This study aimed to investigate possible role of Rad in cardiac EC coupling and β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) inotropic mechanism.

Methods and Results
:

Adenoviral overexpression of Rad by 3-fold in rat cardiomyocytes suppressed LCC current (
I
Ca
), [Ca
2+
]
i
transients, and contractility by 60%, 42%, and 38%, respectively, whereas the “gain” function of EC coupling was significantly increased, due perhaps to reduced “redundancy” of LCC in triggering sarcoplasmic reticulum release. Conversely, ≈70% Rad knockdown by RNA interference increased
I
Ca
(50%), [Ca
2+
]
i
transients (52%) and contractility (58%) without altering EC coupling efficiency; and the dominant negative mutant RadS105N exerted a similar effect on
I
Ca
. Rad upregulation caused depolarizing shift of LCC activation and hastened time-dependent LCC inactivation; Rad downregulation, however, failed to alter these attributes. The Na
+
/Ca
2+
exchange activity, sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
content, properties of Ca
2+
sparks and propensity for Ca
2+
waves all remained unperturbed regardless of Rad manipulation. Rad overexpression, but not knockdown, negated βAR effects on
I
Ca
and Ca
2+
transients.

Conclusion
:

These results establish Rad as a novel endogenous regulator of cardiac EC coupling and βAR signaling and support a parsimonious model in which Rad buffers Ca
v
β to modulate LCC activity, EC coupling, and βAR responsiveness.
Brain-Selective Overexpression of Human Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Type 2 Attenuates Neurogenic Hypertension
Authors: Feng Yumei , Xia Huijing , Cai Yanhui , Halabi Carmen M. , Becker Lenice K. , Santos Robson A.S. , Speth Robert C. , Sigmund Curt D. , Lazartigues Eric
Published: November 2009

Rationale
:

Angiotensin converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2) is a new member of the brain renin-angiotensin system, that might be activated by an overactive renin-angiotensin system.

Objective
:

To clarify the role of central ACE2 using a new transgenic mouse model with human (h)ACE2 under the control of a synapsin promoter, allowing neuron-targeted expression in the central nervous system.

Methods and Results
:

Syn-hACE2 (SA) transgenic mice exhibit high hACE2 protein expression and activity throughout the brain. Baseline hemodynamic parameters (telemetry), autonomic function, and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (SBRS) were not significantly different between SA mice and nontransgenic littermates. Brain-targeted ACE2 overexpression attenuated the development of neurogenic hypertension (Ang II infusion: 600 ng/kg per minute for 14 days) and the associated reduction of both SBRS and parasympathetic tone. This prevention of hypertension by ACE2 overexpression was reversed by blockade of the Ang-(1-7) receptor (
d
-Ala7-Ang-[1-7]; 600 ng/kg per minute). Brain angiotensin II type 2 (AT
2
)/AT
1
and Mas/AT
1
receptor ratios were significantly increased in SA mice. They remained higher following Ang II infusion but were dramatically reduced after Ang-(1-7) receptor blockade. ACE2 overexpression resulted in increased NOS and NO levels in the brain, and prevented the Ang II–mediated decrease in NOS expression in regions modulating blood pressure regulation.

Conclusions
:

ACE2 overexpression attenuates the development of neurogenic hypertension partially by preventing the decrease in both SBRS and parasympathetic tone. These protective effects might be mediated by enhanced NO release in the brain resulting from Mas and AT
2
receptor upregulation. Taken together, our data highlight the compensatory role of central ACE2 and its potential benefits as a therapeutic target for neurogenic hypertension.
Diastolic Intracellular Calcium-Membrane Voltage Coupling Gain and Postshock Arrhythmias
Authors: Maruyama Mitsunori , Joung Boyoung , Tang Liang , Shinohara Tetsuji , On Young-Keun , Han Seongwook , Choi Eue-Keun , Kim Dae-Hyeok , Shen Mark J. , Weiss James N. , Lin Shien-Fong , Chen Peng-Sheng
Published: November 2009

Rationale
:

Recurrent ventricular arrhythmias after initial successful defibrillation are associated with poor clinical outcome.

Objective
:

We tested the hypothesis that postshock arrhythmias occur because of spontaneous sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca release, delayed afterdepolarization (DAD), and triggered activity (TA) from tissues with high sensitivity of resting membrane voltage (
V
m
) to elevated intracellular calcium (Ca
i
) (high diastolic Ca
i
–voltage coupling gains).

Methods and Results
:

We simultaneously mapped Ca
i
and
V
m
on epicardial (n=14) or endocardial (n=14) surfaces of Langendorff-perfused rabbit ventricles. Spontaneous Ca
i
elevation (SCaE) was noted after defibrillation in 32% of ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation at baseline and in 81% during isoproterenol infusion (0.01 to 1 μmol/L). SCaE was reproducibly induced by rapid ventricular pacing and inhibited by 3 μmol/L of ryanodine. The SCaE amplitude and slope increased with increasing pacing rate, duration, and dose of isoproterenol. We found TAs originating from 6 of 14 endocardial surfaces but none from epicardial surfaces, despite similar amplitudes and slopes of SCaEs between epicardial and endocardial surfaces. This was because DADs were larger on endocardial surfaces as a result of higher diastolic Ca
i
–voltage coupling gain, compared to those of epicardial surfaces. Purkinje-like potentials preceded TAs in all hearts studied (n=7).
I
K1
suppression with CsCl (5 mmol/L, n=3), BaCl
2
(3 μmol/L, n=3), and low extracellular potassium (1 mmol/L, n=2) enhanced diastolic Ca
i
–voltage coupling gain and enabled epicardium to also generate TAs.

Conclusions
:

Higher diastolic Ca
i
–voltage coupling gain is essential for genesis of TAs and may underlie postshock arrhythmias arising from Purkinje fibers.
I
K
1
is a major factor that determines the diastolic Ca
i
–voltage coupling gain.
Semantic Congruence Enhances Memory of Episodic Associations: Role of Theta Oscillations
Authors: Atienza Mercedes , Crespo-Garcia Maite , Cantero Jose L.
Published: November 2009

Growing evidence suggests that theta oscillations play a crucial role in episodic encoding. The present study evaluates whether changes in electroencephalographic theta source dynamics mediate the positive influence of semantic congruence on incidental associative learning. Here we show that memory for episodic associations (face–location) is more accurate when studied under semantically congruent contexts. However, only participants showing RT priming effect in a conceptual priming test (priming group) also gave faster responses when recollecting source information of semantically congruent faces as compared with semantically incongruent faces. This improved episodic retrieval was positively correlated with increases in theta power during the study phase mainly in the bilateral parahippocampal gyrus, left superior temporal gyrus, and left lateral posterior parietal lobe. Reconstructed signals from the estimated sources showed higher theta power for congruent than incongruent faces and also for the priming than the nonpriming group. These results are in agreement with the attention to memory model. Besides directing top–down attention to goal-relevant semantic information during encoding, the dorsal parietal lobe may also be involved in redirecting attention to bottom–up-driven memories thanks to connections between the medial-temporal and the left ventral parietal lobe. The latter function can either facilitate or interfere with encoding of face–location associations depending on whether they are preceded by semantically congruent or incongruent contexts, respectively, because only in the former condition retrieved representations related to the cue and the face are both coherent with the person identity and are both associated with the same location.
Human Brain Dynamics Accompanying Use of Egocentric and Allocentric Reference Frames during Navigation
Authors: Gramann Klaus , Onton Julie , Riccobon Davide , Mueller Hermann J. , Bardins Stanislav , Makeig Scott
Published: November 2009

Maintaining spatial orientation while travelling requires integrating spatial information encountered from an egocentric viewpoint with accumulated information represented within egocentric and/or allocentric reference frames. Here, we report changes in high-density EEG activity during a virtual tunnel passage task in which subjects respond to a postnavigation homing challenge in distinctly different ways—either compatible with a continued experience of the virtual environment from a solely egocentric perspective or as if also maintaining their original entrance orientation, indicating use of a parallel allocentric reference frame. By spatially filtering the EEG data using independent component analysis, we found that these two equal subject subgroups exhibited differences in EEG power spectral modulation during tunnel passages in only a few cortical areas. During tunnel turns, stronger alpha blocking occurred only in or near right primary visual cortex of subjects whose homing responses were compatible with continued use of an egocentric reference frame. In contrast, approaching and during tunnel turns, subjects who responded in a way compatible with use of an allocentric reference frame exhibited stronger alpha blocking of occipito-temporal, bilateral inferior parietal, and retrosplenial cortical areas, all areas implicated by hemodynamic imaging and neuropsychological observation in construction and maintenance of an allocentric reference frame. We conclude that in these subjects, stronger activation of retrosplenial and related cortical areas during turns support a continuous translation of egocentrically experienced visual flow into an allocentric model of their virtual position and movement.
A Single Brief Burst Induces GluR1-dependent Associative Short-term Potentiation: A Potential Mechanism for Short-term Memory
Authors: Erickson Martha A. , Maramara Lauren A. , Lisman John
Published: November 2009

Recent work showed that short-term memory (STM) is selectively reduced in GluR1 knockout mice. This raises the possibility that a form of synaptic modification dependent on GluR1 might underlie STM. Studies of synaptic plasticity have shown that stimuli too weak to induce long-term potentiation induce short-term potentiation (STP), a phenomenon that has received little attention. Here we examined several properties of STP and tested the dependence of STP on GluR1. The minimal requirement for inducing STP was examined using a test pathway and a conditioning pathway. Several closely spaced stimuli in the test pathway, forming a single brief burst, were sufficient to induce STP. Thus, STP is likely to be induced by the similar bursts that occur in vivo. STP induction is associative in nature and dependent on the NMDAR. STP decays with two components, a fast component (1.6 ± 0.26 min) and a slower one (19 ± 6.6 min). To test the role of GluR1 in STP, experiments were conducted on GluR1 knockout mice. We found that STP was greatly reduced. These results, taken together with the behavioral work of D. Sanderson et al. [Sanderson, D., Good, M. A., Skelton, K., Sprengel, R., Seeburg, P. H., Nicholas, J., et al. Enhanced long-term and impaired short-term spatial memory in GluA1 AMPA receptor subunit knockout mice: Evidence for a dual-process memory model. Learning and Memory, 2009], provide genetic evidence that STP is a likely mechanism of STM.
Neural Mechanisms of the Testosterone–Aggression Relation: The Role of Orbitofrontal Cortex
Authors: Mehta Pranjal H. , Beer Jennifer
Published: November 2009

Testosterone plays a role in aggressive behavior, but the mechanisms remain unclear. The present study tested the hypothesis that testosterone influences aggression through the OFC, a region implicated in self-regulation and impulse control. In a decision-making paradigm in which people chose between aggression and monetary reward (the ultimatum game), testosterone was associated with increased aggression following social provocation (rejecting unfair offers). The effect of testosterone on aggression was explained by reduced activity in the medial OFC. The findings suggest that testosterone increases the propensity toward aggression because of reduced activation of the neural circuitry of impulse control and self-regulation.
The Critical Value of Focus Group Discussions in Research With Women Living With HIV in Malawi
Authors: Mkandawire-Valhmu Lucy , Stevens Patricia E.
Published: November 2009

This article is based on a critical ethnography about HIV and gender-based issues of power and violence conducted in Malawi in 2008. In all, 72 women living with HIV were recruited from four antiretroviral treatment clinics, three rural and one urban, to participate in 12 focus groups. Informed by a postcolonial feminist perspective, we analyze the process and products of these focus groups to interrogate their capacity to facilitate collective engagement with the social and structural realities confronting women in a resource-limited, highly AIDS-affected country. We present exemplars to show how women together created collective narratives to mobilize individuals to action. Findings indicate that focus groups can be used innovatively to benefit both the research and the participants, not only as a critical method of inquiry with marginalized groups but also as a forum in which validating dialogue, mutual support, and exchange of strategic information can generate transformative change to improve women’s lives.
Zoledronic acid for the treatment and prevention of primary and secondary osteoporosis
Authors: Rizzoli René
Published: November 2009

There is increasing interest in therapies that can be administered less frequently and/or avoid gastrointestinal irritation. The efficacy of once-yearly zoledronic acid (5 mg) in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis has been evaluated in different patient populations. In the 3-year HORIZON-Pivotal Fracture Trial in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis, zoledronic acid reduced the risk of vertebral and hip fracture by 70% and 41%, respectively, versus placebo. The efficacy of zoledronic acid in preventing subsequent fracture in patients with a hip fracture was evaluated in the HORIZON-Recurrent Fracture Trial. New vertebral and nonvertebral fractures were significantly reduced by treatment initiated within 90 days of incident hip fracture, without evidence of delayed fracture healing. Data from a 1-year study show that a single zoledronic acid 5-mg infusion is superior to oral risedronate 5 mg/day for treatment and prevention of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. Increases in bone mineral density and decreases in bone turnover markers were significantly greater with zoledronic acid than with risedronate. Two different treatment regimens of zoledronic acid were found to be more effective than placebo for prevention of bone loss in postmenopausal women and reducing markers of bone turnover after 2 years. In conclusion, zoledronic acid 5 mg once-yearly infusion has demonstrated marked efficacy in the treatment and prevention of primary and secondary osteoporosis, with a combination of fracture risk reduction and prevention of bone loss at key sites. It is the only agent shown to reduce the incidence of fracture and mortality in patients with a previous low-trauma hip fracture.
Mineralogy and geochemical affinities of bentonites from Kapıkaya (Eskişehir, western Turkey)
Authors: Yildiz A. , Dumlupunar İ.
Published: November 2009

There are numerous bentonite deposits, formed by the alteration of volcanic rocks, in the Kapıkaya area (Eskişehir, western Turkey). These deposits can be classified into three groups according to their stratigraphical levels. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), major, rare-earth and trace-element analyses of bentonites and their parent rocks from the Kapıkaya area were used to evaluate the mineralogical and geochemical properties of bentonites and their parental affinities. Mineral assemblages resulting from bentonite deposits consist mostly of clay minerals, gypsum, cristobalite/opal-CT, quartz, feldspar, calcite and dolomite. The clay minerals are represented mainly by dioctahedral smectite and lesser amounts of illite and chlorite. The enrichment and depletion of the elements indicates open-system alteration conditions. The enrichments in MgO, Fe2O3, TiO2, Co, Pb, Zn, and Ni are related to the precipitation of hydrothermal solutions channelled throughout ultramafic sources. The main differences in mineralogy and geochemistry of bentonites from the Kapıkaya area are in the smectite composition and the contents of major, rare-earth and other trace elements. The data obtained show that the types of parent rock the influenced the mineralogical and geochemical compositions of the bentonites.
Cathodoluminescence microcharacterization of point defects in α-quartz
Authors: Stevens-Kalceff M. A.
Published: November 2009

Cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy in an SEM has been used to investigate
the point defect structure of clear natural α-quartz at 295 K. Cathodoluminescence
processes and experimental factors that influence the CL spectra from α-quartz are
investigated. Electron irradiation may induce changes in the average local crystal
micro structure of quartz, locally transforming it to a less dense, amorphized
state. The observed CL emissions are identified with a range of native and
impurity defect centres including: interstitial molecular O at 0.968 eV; a
charge-compensated substitutional Fe3+ impurity centre at
—1.65 eV; a non-bridging oxygen hole centre (NBOHC) at 1.9 eV; an NBOHC with OH~
precursor at 1.95 eV; an NBOHC with a non-bridging impurity (e.g.
Li+, Na+ or K+)
precursor at — 1.9 eV; a radiative recombination of the self-trapped exciton (STE)
associated with an E' centre in electron-irradiation-amorphized quartz at 2.3 eV;
a radiative recombination of the STE associated with the E1'
centre in α-quartz at 2.7 eV; a charge-compensated-substitutional Al3+ impurity
centre at 3.3 eV; and a neutral relaxed O vacancy at 4.3 eV. In addition,
unresolved contributions from O-deficient defects in
electron-irradiation-amorphized SiO2 are likely at —2.7 and
4.3 eV.
Results of a phase 2 study of bortezomib in patients with relapsed or refractory indolent lymphoma
Authors: Di Bella Nicholas , Taetle Raymond , Kolibaba Kathryn , Boyd Thomas , Raju Robert , Barrera David , Cochran Ernest W. , Dien Philip Y. , Lyons Roger , Schlegel Peter J. , Vukelja Svetislava J. , Boston Julie , Boehm Kristi A. , Wang Yunfei , Asmar Lina
Published: November 2009

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of single-agent bortezomib in indolent B-cell lymphoma that had relapsed from or was refractory to rituximab. Sixty patients enrolled: 59 were treated with bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 on days 1, 4, 8, and 11 for up to eight 21-day cycles; responders could receive 4 additional cycles; maintenance was optional. Fifty-three evaluable patients completed more than 2 cycles. The median age was 70 years, 53% female, Ann Arbor stage III-IIIE (28%) and IV (65%); 43 patients (72%) had more than 2 prior regimens; and 6 patients went on to maintenance. Overall responses are as follows: 1 complete response (1.9%), 3 unconfirmed complete response (5.7%), 3 partial response (5.7%), 34 stable disease (64.2%), and 12 progressive disease (22.6%). Median time to response = 2.2 months (range, 1.2-5.3 months); duration of response = 7.9 months (2.8-21.3 months); 1-year survival was 73% and 2-year survival was 58%; median survival = 27.7 months (range, 1.4-30.9 months); median progression-free survival = 5.1 months (range, 0.2-27.7 months), median time to progression = 5.1 months (range, 0.2-27.7 months), and median event-free survival = 1.8 months (range, 0.2-27.7 months). Treatment-related grade 3 or 4 adverse events included: thrombocytopenia (20%), fatigue (10%), neutropenia (8.5%), and neuropathy and diarrhea (6.8% each). This study demonstrates that bortezomib has modest activity against marginal zone and follicular lymphoma; it has the potential for combination with other agents in low-grade lymphomas. Maintenance therapy should be explored further.
Home and workplace smoking bans in Italy, Ireland, Sweden, France and the Czech Republic
Authors: Heck J. E. , Stücker I. , Allwright S. , Gritz E. R. , Haglund M. , Healton C. G. , Kralikova E. , Sanchez Del Mazo S. , Tamang E. , Dresler C. M. , Hashibe M.
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this study was to report predictors and prevalence of home and workplace smoking bans in five European countries.

We conducted a population-based telephone survey of 4,977 females, ascertaining factors associated with smoking bans. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were derived using unconditional logistic regression.

A complete home smoking ban was reported by 59.5% of French, 63.5% of Irish, 61.3% of Italian, 74.4% of Czech and 87.0% of Swedish females. Home smoking bans were associated with younger age and being bothered by secondhand smoke, and among smokers, inversely associated with greater tobacco dependence. Among nonsmokers, bans were also related to believing smoking is harmful (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.11–1.30) and having parents who smoke (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.52–0.73). Workplace bans were reported by 92.6% of French, 96.5% of Irish, 77.9% of Italian, 79.1% of Czech and 88.1% of Swedish females. Workplace smoking bans were reported less often among those in technical positions (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.50–0.82) and among skilled workers (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32–0.88) than among professional workers.

Workplace smoking bans are in place for most workers in these countries. Having a home smoking ban was based on smoking behaviour, demographics, beliefs and personal preference.
Platelet-activating factor reduces endothelial nitric oxide production: role of acid sphingomyelinase
Authors: Yang Y. , Yin J. , Baumgartner W. , Samapati R. , Solymosi E.A. , Reppien E. , Kuebler W.M. , Uhlig S.
Published: November 2009

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a mediator of pulmonary oedema in acute lung injury that increases vascular permeability within minutes, partly through activation of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM). Since caveolae are rich in sphingomyelin and caveolin-1, which block endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) by direct binding, we examined the relationship between ASM, caveolin-1 and eNOS activity in the regulation of vascular permeability by PAF.

In caveolar fractions from pulmonary vascular endothelial cells (isolated from perfused rat lungs) the abundance of caveolin-1 and eNOS increased rapidly after PAF perfusion. PAF treatment decreased endothelial NO (eNO) formation as assessed byin situfluorescence microscopy. Restoration of eNO levels with PAPA-NONOate ((Z)-1-[N-(3-ammoniopropyl)-N-(n-propyl)amino]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate)mitigated the PAF-induced oedema.

PAF treatment increased the ASM activity in caveolar fractions and perfusion with ASM decreased eNO production. Pharmacological inhibition of the ASM pathway with imipramine, D609 or dexamethasone blocked the PAF-induced increase of caveolin-1 and eNOS in caveolae, and the decrease in eNO production and oedema formation.

We conclude that PAF causes ASM-dependent enrichment of caveolin-1 in caveolae of endothelial cells, leading to decreased eNO production which contributes to pulmonary oedema formation. These findings suggest rapid reduction in eNO production as a novel mechanism in the regulation of vascular permeability.
Comparison of storage phosphor computed radiography with conventional film-screen radiography in the recognition of pneumoconiosis
Authors: Laney A.S. , Petsonk E.L. , Wolfe A.L. , Attfield M.D.
Published: November 2009

Traditional film-screen radiography (FSR) has been useful in the recognition and evaluation of interstitial lung diseases, but is becoming increasingly obsolete. To evaluate the applicability of storage phosphor digital computed radiography (CR) images in the recognition of small lung opacities, we compared image quality and the profusion of small opacities between FSR and CR radiographs.

We screened 1,388 working coal miners during the course of the study with FSR and CR images obtained on the same day from all participants. Each traditional chest film was independently interpreted by two of eight experienced readers using the International Labour Office (ILO) classification of radiographs of pneumoconiosis, as were CR images displayed on medical-grade computer monitors.

The prevalence of small opacities (ILO category 1/0 or greater) did not differ between the two imaging modalities (5.2% for FSR and 4.8% for soft copy CR; p>0.50). Inter-reader agreement was also similar between FSR and CR. Significant differences between image modalities were observed in the shape of small opacities, and in the proportion of miners demonstrating high opacity profusion (category 2/1 and above).

Our results indicate that, with appropriate attention to image acquisition and soft copy display, CR digital radiography can be equivalent to FSR in the identification of small interstitial lung opacities.
Tuberculosis treatment effect on T-cell interferon-γ responses toMycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens
Authors: Chee C.B.E. , Khinmar K.W. , Gan S.H. , Barkham T.M. , Koh C.K. , Shen L. , Wang Y.T.
Published: November 2009

The hypothesis that T-cell interferon-γ responses toMycobacterium tuberculosis-specific antigens decline as disease activity diminishes with tuberculosis (TB) treatment has generated interest in the interferon-γ release assays (IGRAs) as treatment-monitoring tools. We studied the effect of TB treatment on these responses as measured by the QuantiFERON-TB® Gold In-tube (QFT-IT) and T-SPOT.TB® assays.

275 sputum culture-positive, HIV-uninfected pulmonary TB patients were tested with QFT-IT and T-SPOT.TB® at baseline, treatment completion and 6 months thereafter. The QFT-IT was also performed at the end of the intensive phase. The time-treatment effect on the qualitative and quantitative IGRA results was determined.

There were significant declines in the positivity rates and quantitative results of both IGRAs with treatment. The QFT-IT positivity rate was significantly lower than the T-SPOT.TB®. The test reversion rate was significantly different for the two assays (13.9% for T-SPOT.TB®versus39.2% for QFT-IT). 79% and 46% tested positive with T-SPOT.TB® and QFT-IT respectively at 6 months post-treatment completion. The kinetics of the quantitative responses was not significantly different between subjects with and without risk factors for disease relapse.

That a substantial proportion of patients remained test-positive after TB treatment would suggest a limited role of IGRAs as treatment monitoring tools.
Incidence of bacteraemia following endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration
Authors: Steinfort D.P. , Johnson D.F. , Irving L.B.
Published: November 2009

Few data exist concerning possible infectious complications associated with endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). The present prospective evaluation was undertaken in order to determine the incidence of bacteraemia and infectious complications associated with EBUS-TBNA.

Consecutive patients undergoing EBUS-TBNA for evaluation of mediastinal or hilar lymph node lesions were studied. Venesection was performed within 60 s of TBNA for aerobic and anaerobic blood culture. Sterile saline washing of TBNA needles was also performed. Patients with positive blood cultures were reviewed immediately, and all patients underwent clinical review within 1 week of EBUS-TBNA.

A total of 43 patients underwent EBUS-TBNA, with bacteraemia demonstrated in three (7%). All bacterial isolates were typical oropharyngeal commensal organisms. The TBNA needle washing culture was positive in 15 (35%) patients. None of the three bacteraemic patients had clinical features suggestive of infection, and no complications were seen among the cohort.

The incidence of bacteraemia following EBUS-TBNA is comparable to that following routine flexible bronchoscopy. Performance of TBNA does not appear to measurably increase the risk of bacteraemia over that associated with insertion of the bronchoscope into the airway. Contamination of the TBNA needle with oropharyngeal commensal bacteria is common; however, clinically significant infection following EBUS-TBNA appears rare.
Optimal and Heuristic Echelon (r, nQ, T) Policies in Serial Inventory Systems with Fixed Costs
Authors: Shang Kevin H. , Zhou Sean X.
Published: November 2009

This paper studies a periodic-review, serial inventory system in which echelon (r, nQ, T) policies are implemented. Under such a policy, each stage reviews its inventory in every T period and orders according to an echelon (r, nQ) policy. Two types of fixed costs are considered: one is associated with each order batch Q, and the other is incurred for each inventory review. The objective is to find the policy parameters such that the average total cost per period is minimized. This paper provides a method for obtaining heuristic and optimal policy parameters. The heuristic is based on minimizing lower and upper bounds on the total cost function. These total cost bounds, which are separable functions of the policy parameters, are obtained in two steps: First, we decompose the total cost into costs associated with each stage, which include a penalty cost for holding inadequate stock. Second, we construct lower and upper bounds for the penalty cost by regulating downstream policy parameters. To find the optimal solution, we further construct cost bounds for each echelon (a subsystem that includes a stage and all of its downstream stages) by regulating holding and backorder cost parameters. The echelon lower-bound cost functions, as well as the stage cost bounds, generate bounds for the optimal solution. In a numerical study, we find that the heuristic is near optimal when the ratio of the fixed cost to the holding cost at the most downstream stage is large. We also find that changing the optimal batch sizes may not affect the optimal reorder intervals or, equivalently, the delivery schedules under some conditions.
Pay attention to the footnotes
Authors: Cocker Emma
Published: November 2009

Drawing on my experience of working in collaboration with the project Open City, in this article I reflect on how this close encounter with a performance practice has enabled a critical shift within my own approach, from a mode of writing about to one of writing in dialogue with or alongside performance. Open City is an investigation-led artistic project that explores how public space is conceptualized and organized by interrogating the ways in which our daily actions and behaviours are conditioned and controlled. Their research activity involves inviting, instructing or working with members of the public to create discrete interventions and performances, which put into question or destabilize habitual patterns or conventions of public behaviour. In 2007, I was invited by Open City to produce a piece of writing in response to their work for a series of publicly distributed postcards, and have since worked more collaboratively with the project on a phase of research investigating how the different temporalities within the public realm might be harnessed or activated creatively; how movement and mobility affect the way in which place and locality are encountered or understood. In this article, I reflect on how different forms of writing specifically the postcard texts haveperformedin response to the work of Open City, focusing in particular on the use offootnotesand the different concepts conjured up by the word. Footnotes are one of the ways in which the different temporal possibilities of writing have been explored and exploited within the project, where they have been used as a creative and critical device for producing points of slowness and blockage within the act of reading, or as a form of performative invitation that encourages both textual and physical wandering.
Dramaturge as midwife: the writing process within a New Zealand community theatre project
Authors: Graham Fiona
Published: November 2009

This article examines the different writing processes within a New Zealand intra-cultural community theatre project. Drawing on a practitioner perspective I explore how marginalized minority community groups were able to write their own stories and discover a collective identity. In
analysing this process I develop the metaphor of the midwife to conceptualize and theorize the role of the dramaturge. I use this case study to interrogate Barthes's notion (1977) of the death of the author and Bhabha's argument (1994) about how some forms of multiculturalism can lead to political
empowerment. In conclusion, I suggest that this multi-authored community project exemplifies the kind of empowerment that Bhabha describes.
Something to glance off: Writing Space
Authors: Turner Cathy
Published: November 2009

This article describes the first Writing Space project, held in the Department of Performing Arts, University of Winchester. The purpose of this project was to test a structure that would engage diverse writers in an inclusive, non-hierarchical conceptual dialogue, leading to the production
of a series of short, experimental texts. The article considers the relationships produced between participating writers/artists and performers, as well as the dialogues that took place within and between the performed texts themselves. The article is presented as a series of linked speculations
about the range of relationships taking place between texts, writers and performances. Commenting on some of the more conventional thinking within the UK theatre, I argue that greater awareness or interest in the collaborative and dialogic element within theatre and performance writing practices
could lead to a transformation of dramaturgical strategies among and between writers and other artists.
Reviews
Authors: Edwards Harriet
Published: November 2009

Inspiring Writing in Art and Design: Taking a Line for a Write, Pat Francis (2009) Bristol: Intellect, 256 pp., ISBN-10 1841502561, ISBN-13 9781841502564 (pbk), 20.50
Hallux Valgus and the First Metatarsal Arch Segment: A Theoretical Biomechanical Perspective
Authors: Glasoe Ward M. , Nuckley David J. , Ludewig Paula M.
Published: November 2009

Hallux valgus is a progressive foot deformity characterized by a lateral deviation of the hallux with corresponding medial deviation of the first metatarsal. Late-stage changes may render the hallux painful and without functional utility, leading to impaired gait. Various environmental, genetic, and anatomical predispositions have been suggested, but the exact cause of hallux valgus is unknown. Evidence indicates that conservative intervention for hallux valgus provides relief from symptoms but does not reverse deformity. Part 1 of this perspective article reviews the literature describing the anatomy, pathomechanics, and etiology of hallux valgus. Part 2 expands on the biomechanical initiators of hallux valgus attributed to the first metatarsal. Theory is advanced that collapse of the arch with vertical orientation (tilt) of the first metatarsal axis initiates deformity. To counteract the progression of hallux valgus, we use theory to discuss a possible mechanism by which foot orthoses can bolster the arch and reorient the first metatarsal axis horizontally.
Endoscopic endonasal resection of Rathke cleft cysts: clinical outcomes and surgical nuances
Authors: Madhok Ricky , Prevedello Daniel M. , Gardner Paul , Carrau Ricardo L. , Snyderman Carl H. , Kassam Amin B.
Published: November 2009

Object

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign lesions that can be diagnosed as an incidental finding associated with headaches, pituitary dysfunction, or vision deterioration. Typically, they occur in a sellar or suprasellar location. The aim of this study was to review the clinical presentation and outcomes associated with endoscopic endonasal resection of these lesions.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed a series of 35 patients with a diagnosis of RCC after endoscopic endonasal resection at the University of Pittsburgh between January 1998 and July 2008.

Results

All 35 patients underwent a purely endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA). The average patient age was 34 years (range 12–67 years), and the average follow-up was 19 months (range 1–60 months). Clinical follow-up data were available for 32 patients, and radiographic follow-up data were accessible for 33 patients. All of the patients underwent complete removal of the cyst contents, and according to radiography studies 2 patients had a recurrence, neither of which required reoperation. The mean cyst volume was 1052.7 mm3 (range 114–6044 mm3). Headache was a presenting symptom in 26 (81.2%) of 32 patients, with 25 (96.1%) of 26 having postoperative improvement in their headaches. Fifteen (57.7%) of the 26 patients had complete pain resolution, and 10 (38.5%) had a > 50% reduction in their pain scores. Six (18.8%) of 32 patients initially presented with pituitary dysfunction, although 2 (33.3%) had postoperative improvement. Three (9.4%) of 32 patients had temporary pituitary dysfunction postoperatively, although there was no permanent pituitary dysfunction. Neither were there any intraoperative complications, postoperative CSF leaks, or new neurological deficits. The average hospital stay was 1.8 days (range 1–5 days).

Conclusions

The EEA is a safe and effective approach in the treatment of RCCs. None of the patients in this study experienced any worsening of their preoperative symptoms or pituitary function, and 96% of the patients who had presented with headache experienced complete or significant pain relief following treatment.
Clival chordomas: clinical management, results, and complications in 71 patients
Authors: Sen Chandranath , Triana Aymara I. , Berglind Niklas , Godbold James , Shrivastava Raj K.
Published: November 2009

Object

Chordomas are rare malignant neoplasms arising predominantly at the sacrum and skull base. They are uniformly lethal unless treated with aggressive resection and proton beam irradiation. The authors present results of the surgical management of a large number of patients with clivus chordomas. Factors that influence the surgeon's ability to achieve radical tumor resection are also evaluated.

Methods

Between 1991 and 2005, 71 patients with clivus chordomas underwent surgery. The average follow-up was 66 months (median 60 months, range 3–189 months). Sixty-five patients had complete records that were analyzed in the present report. Thirty-five percent of them had undergone surgery before being treated by the authors. They were evaluated with MR imaging and CT scanning and underwent surgery utilizing a variety of skull base techniques aimed at achieving radical excision. Many also underwent postoperative radiation, usually in the form of proton beam therapy. The patients were followed up with serial imaging at regular intervals as well as with neurological evaluation.

Results

Radical tumor resection was achieved in 58% of the group. The overall 5-year survival rate was 75%. Radical resection had a positive impact on survival. The ability to achieve radical resection was dependent on the preoperative tumor volume and the number of anatomical areas involved by the tumor. Cranial nerve impairment and CSF leakage were the most frequent postoperative complications.

Conclusions

Radical excision is the ideal surgical goal in the treatment of clival chordomas and can be achieved with reasonable risks. Several different surgical approaches may be necessary to accomplish this.
Porous Ba Ferrite Prepared from Wood Template
Authors: Adachi Nobuyasu , Kuwahara Masayuki , Sia Chee Kiong , Ota Toshitaka
Published: November 2009

Ba ferrite materials with porous microstructures were prepared from a natural cedar wood template in order to investigate new electromagnetic shielding materials. The wood templates were infiltrated with barium nitrate and iron nitrate solutions (molar ratio = 1:12) and dried to form ferrite gel, then, they were sintered in air at a temperature between 800 °C and 1400 °C. The 1-dimensional porous structures were retained after sintering and the pore size was approximately 10–20 μm. These ferrites show large coercive force and anisotropy field. The largest coercive force was obtained for the specimen sintered at 800 °C.
Improving Security for SCADA Sensor Networks with Reputation Systems and Self-Organizing Maps
Authors: Moya José M. , Araujo Álvaro , Banković Zorana , De Goyeneche Juan-Mariano , Vallejo Juan Carlos , Malagón Pedro , Villanueva Daniel , Fraga David , Romero Elena , Blesa Javier
Published: November 2009

The reliable operation of modern infrastructures depends on computerized systems and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, which are also based on the data obtained from sensor networks. The inherent limitations of the sensor devices make them extremely vulnerable to cyberwarfare/cyberterrorism attacks. In this paper, we propose a reputation system enhanced with distributed agents, based on unsupervised learning algorithms (self-organizing maps), in order to achieve fault tolerance and enhanced resistance to previously unknown attacks. This approach has been extensively simulated and compared with previous proposals.
A Model for Sustainable Humanitarian Engineering Projects
Authors: Amadei Bernard , Sandekian Robyn , Thomas Evan
Published: November 2009

The engineering profession should embrace a new mission statement—to contribute to the building of a more sustainable, stable, and equitable world. Recently, engineering students and professionals in the United States have shown strong interest in directly addressing the needs of developing communities worldwide. That interest has taken the form of short-and medium-term international trips through Engineers Without Borders—USA and similar organizations. There are also several instances where this kind of outreach work has been integrated into engineering education at various US institutions such as the University of Colorado at Boulder. This paper addresses the challenges and opportunities associated with balancing two goals in engineering for humanitarian development projects: (i) effective sustainable community development, and (ii) meaningful education of engineers. Guiding principles necessary to meet those two goals are proposed.
Exciton–Exciton Annihilation in Mixed‐Phase Polyfluorene Films
Authors: Shaw Paul E. , Ruseckas Arvydas , Peet Jeffrey , Bazan Guillermo C. , Samuel Ifor D. W.
Published: November 2009

Singlet–singlet annihilation is studied in polyfluorene (PFO) films containing different fractions ofβ‐phase chains using time‐resolved fluorescence. On a timescale of >15 ps after excitation, the results are fitted well by a time‐independent annihilation rate, which indicates that annihilation is controlled by 3D exciton diffusion. A time‐dependent annihilation rate is observed during the first 15 ps in the glassy phase and in theβ‐phase rich films, which can be explained by the slowdown of exciton diffusion after excitons reach low‐energy sites. The annihilation rate in the mixed‐phase films increases with increasing fraction ofβ‐phase present, indicating enhanced exciton diffusion. The observed trend agrees well with a model of fully dispersedβ‐phase chromophores in the surrounding glassy phase with the exciton diffusion described using the line‐dipole approximation for an exciton wavefunction extending over 2.5 nm. The results indicate that glassy andβ‐phase chromophores are intimately mixed rather than clustered or phase‐separated.
Stem Cells: Current Approach and Future Prospects in Spinal Cord Injury Repair
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wimmer Johannes , Qian Sheng‐Jun , Chen Wei‐Shan
Published: November 2009

Spinal cord injury (SCI) invariably results in the loss of neurons and axonal degeneration at the lesion site, leading to permanent paralysis and loss of sensation. There has been no successful treatment for severe spinal cord injuries to recover back to normal function yet. Studies have shown that the transplantation of stem cells may provide an effective treatment for SCI because of the self‐renewing and multipotential nature of these cells. Stem cells have the capability to repair injured nervous tissue through replacement of damaged cells, neuroprotection, or the creation of an environment conducive to regeneration by endogenous cells. Up to today several types of stem cells have been transplanted into the injured spinal cord. However, the question of which cell type is most beneficial for SCI treatment is still unresolved. There are still several limitations to the current data sets which require further investigation. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.