bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonic excitation of a bubble inside a deformable tube: Implications for ultrasonically induced hemorrhage
Authors: Miao Hongyu , Gracewski Sheryl M. , Dalecki Diane
Published: October 2008

Various independent investigations indicate that the presence of microbubbles within blood vessels may increase the likelihood of ultrasound-induced hemorrhage. To explore potential damage mechanisms, an axisymmetric coupled finite element and boundary element code was developed and employed to simulate the response of an acoustically excited bubble centered within a deformable tube. As expected, the tube mitigates the expansion of the bubble. The maximum tube dilation and maximum hoop stress were found to occur well before the bubble reached its maximum radius. Therefore, it is not likely that the expanding low pressure bubble pushes the tube wall outward. Instead, simulation results indicate that the tensile portion of the acoustic excitation plays a major role in tube dilation and thus tube rupture. The effects of tube dimensions (tube wall thickness 1–5μm), material properties (Young’s modulus 1–10MPa), ultrasound frequency (1–10MHz), and pressure amplitude (0.2–1.0MPa) on bubble response and tube dilation were investigated. As the tube thickness, tube radius, and acoustic frequency decreased, the maximum hoop stress increased, indicating a higher potential for tube rupture and hemorrhage.
A 50Year comparison of ambient ocean noise near San Clemente Island: A bathymetrically complex coastal region off Southern California
Authors: McDonald Mark A. , Hildebrand John A. , Wiggins Sean M. , Ross Donald
Published: October 2008

Repeated ocean ambient noise measurements at a shallow water (110m) site near San Clemente Island reveal little increase in noise levels in the absence of local ships. Navy reports document ambient noise levels at this site in 1958–1959 and 1963–1964 and a seafloor recorder documents noise during 2005–2006. When noise from local ships was excluded from the 2005–2006 recordings, median sound levels were essentially the same as were observed in 1958 and 1963. Local ship noise, however, was present in 31% of the recordings in 1963 but was present in 89% of the recordings in 2005–2006. Median levels including local ships are 6–9dB higher than median levels chosen from times when local ship noise was absent. Biological sounds and the sound of wind driven waves controlled ambient noise levels in the absence of local ships. The median noise levels at this site are low for an open water site due to the poor acoustic propagation and low average wind speeds. The quiet nature of this site in the absence of local ships allows correlation of wind speed to wave noise across the 10–220Hz spectral band of this study.
Three-dimensional transient and harmonic shear-wave scattering by a soft cylinder for dynamic vascular elastography
Authors: Henni Anis Hadj , Schmitt Cédric , Cloutier Guy
Published: October 2008

With the objective of characterizing biological soft tissues with dynamic elastography, a three-dimensional (3D) analytical model is proposed to simulate the scattering of plane shear waves by a soft cylinder embedded in an infinite soft medium. The 3D problem of harmonic plane shear-wave scattering is first formulated and solved, and the monochromatic solution is employed to simulate transient wave scattering. Both harmonic and transient simulations are compared with experimental 3D acquisitions. The good agreements obtained between measured and calculated displacement fields allowed to conclude on the validity of the proposed 3D harmonic and transient models. The spatial distribution of displacements (diffraction lobes, displacement oscillations, wave diffraction angles, etc.) and their relative amplitudes in both inclusion and surrounding materials depended on the contrast between the viscoelastic properties of the different media. The possibility of solving an inverse problem to assess soft heterogeneous medium viscoelasticity is discussed and some future theoretical and experimental developments are proposed.
Shock-induced collapse of a gas bubble in shockwave lithotripsy
Authors: Johnsen Eric , Colonius Tim
Published: October 2008

The shock-induced collapse of a pre-existing nucleus near a solid surface in the focal region of a lithotripter is investigated. The entire flow field of the collapse of a single gas bubble subjected to a lithotripter pulse is simulated using a high-order accurate shock- and interface-capturing scheme, and the wall pressure is considered as an indication of potential damage. Results from the computations show the same qualitative behavior as that observed in experiments: a re-entrant jet forms in the direction of propagation of the pulse and penetrates the bubble during collapse, ultimately hitting the distal side and generating a water-hammer shock. As a result of the propagation of this wave, wall pressures on the order of 1 GPa may be achieved for bubbles collapsing close to the wall. The wall pressure decreases with initial stand-off distance and pulse width and increases with pulse amplitude. For the stand-off distances considered in the present work, the wall pressure due to bubble collapse is larger than that due to the incoming shockwave; the region over which this holds may extend to ten initial radii. The present results indicate that shock-induced collapse is a mechanism with high potential for damage in shockwave lithotripsy.
The use of ventilation frequency as an accurate indicator of metabolic rate in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)
Authors: Millidine K. J. , Metcalfe N. B. , Armstrong J. D.
Published: October 2008

Bioenergetics studies of free-living animals have long been hampered by limitations on our abilities to measure the energy costs of different activities. Here we evaluate whether it is possible to use the opercular ventilatory beat rate of a fish to estimate its rate of energy expenditure. Changes in metabolic rate (MR) and ventilation rate (VR) were recorded in yearling Atlantic salmon ( Salmo salar , weight range 1.8–12.64 g) engaged in different activities at different temperatures while within a respirometer. MR was found to correlate strongly with VR in all fish. The relationship was linear, and both the slope and corresponding intercept of the regression equation were strongly dependent on the fish’s body weight and the test temperature. From these relationships, a general equation was generated to predict MR at a range of temperatures from knowledge of a fish’s weight and its VR; this proved to be highly accurate (correlation between predicted and observed MRs: r = 0.95), although calibration of individual fish is recommended in studies that compare performance of individuals. Visual measurements of VR may therefore provide a highly accurate, cheap, and noninvasive method of measuring the energy consumption of fish engaged in natural behaviours in more natural settings.
Escapement goal analysis and stock reconstruction of sockeye salmon populations (Oncorhynchus nerka) using life-history models
Authors: Lessard Robert B. , Hilborn Ray , Chasco Brandon E.
Published: October 2008

We compare life-history models with the Beverton–Holt approach of escapement goal analysis. We model the life history of a sockeye salmon ( Onchorhynchus nerka ) population from a spawning stage, through juvenile and adult stages, and ending with adults that return to spawn. We fit models to data by statistically comparing predicted and observed numbers of four dominant adult ages. Posterior estimates of parameters from Markov chain Monte Carlo simulations are then used to assess optimal harvest policies. We search for policies that produce the highest average yield. We find that it is possible to detect density dependence with a life-history model where analysis of Beverton–Holt stock–recruitment relationship fails to do so. We find that Beverton–Holt relationships produce policies and long-term yield estimates that are inconsistent with empirical trends. Conversely, we find that optimal spawning stock sizes and maximum sustained yield estimates using the life-history model estimate are consistent with the historical behavior of fisheries examined. Adding smolt data to the analysis does not substantially change predicted optimal spawning stock size, but decreases the variance in estimated posterior parameter distributions and policy variable distributions.
Design–information technology and performances in building and industrial projects
Authors: Thomas Stephen R. , Lee Sang-Hoon , Park Hee-Sung
Published: October 2008

This paper describes a collaborative effort by industry, government, and academia to evaluate the use of design-information technology (D/IT) in building and industrial projects and to relate the degree of use to project performance. A detailed statistical analysis of 566 projects in the Construction Industry Institute (CII) database is used to produce baseline measures of performance and D/IT use. The relationship between these measures is used to assess the economic value of using the technologies. The results of this study establish that projects benefit from D/IT use. Owners experienced project cost savings of 2.1% and contractors experienced cost savings of 1.8% as D/IT use increased. Construction schedule growth was reduced by 5.6% for owners and by 6.4% for contractors with increased D/IT use. Impacts on safety performance are less clear: owners obtain quantifiable safety benefits, whereas for contractors, the impact was minimal. The statistical analyses also confirm that reductions in project development, scope changes, and field rework are associated with increased D/IT use.
ON THE POSSIBLE STABILITY OF TETRANEUTRONS AND HEXANEUTRONS
Authors: ANAGNOSTATOS G. S.
Published: October 2008

A specific cluster approach, in the framework of the Isomorphic Shell Model, is employed to examine the possible stability of 2n, 4n, and 6n. According to this study 2n is definitely unstable, while 4n and 6n could be stable or, at least, exhibit a low-lying resonance. Better knowledge of the strength of the neutron–neutron force will lead to more definite results.
Muscle as an Endocrine Organ: Focus on Muscle-Derived Interleukin-6
Authors: Pedersen Bente K. , Febbraio Mark A.
Published: October 2008

Skeletal muscle has recently been identified as an endocrine organ. It has, therefore, been suggested that cytokines and other peptides that are produced, expressed, and released by muscle fibers and exert paracrine, autocrine, or endocrine effects should be classified as “myokines.” Recent research demonstrates that skeletal muscles can produce and express cytokines belonging to distinctly different families. However, the first identified and most studied myokine is the gp130 receptor cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6). IL-6 was discovered as a myokine because of the observation that it increases up to 100-fold in the circulation during physical exercise. Identification of IL-6 production by skeletal muscle during physical activity generated renewed interest in the metabolic role of IL-6 because it created a paradox. On one hand, IL-6 is markedly produced and released in the postexercise period when insulin action is enhanced but, on the other hand, IL-6 has been associated with obesity and reduced insulin action. This review focuses on the myokine IL-6, its regulation by exercise, its signaling pathways in skeletal muscle, and its role in metabolism in both health and disease.
Insulin-like Growth Factor–Binding Protein-2 Is a Target for the Immunomodulation of Breast Cancer
Authors: Park Kyong Hwa , Gad Ekram , Goodell Vivian , Dang Yushe , Wild Thayer , Higgins Doreen , Fintak Patty , Childs Jennifer , dela Rosa Corazon , Disis Mary L.
Published: October 2008

Breast cancer is immunogenic and well suited to treatment via immunomodulation. The disease is often treated to remission and time to relapse is generally measured in years in many cases. Immune-based therapeutics, such as cancer vaccines, may be able to affect the clinical progression of micrometastatic disease. Immune targets must be identified that have the potential to inhibit tumor growth. Insulin-like growth factor–binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) has direct effects on breast cancer proliferation via stimulation of critical signaling pathways. We questioned whether IGFBP-2 was an immune target in breast cancer. IGFBP-2–specific IgG antibody immunity was preferentially detected in breast cancer patients compared with controls (P = 0.0008). To evaluate for the presence of T-cell immunity, we identified potential pan-HLA-DR binding epitopes derived from IGFBP-2 and tested the peptides for immunogenicity. The majority of epitopes elicited peptide-specific T cells in both patients and controls and had high sequence homology to bacterial pathogens. IGFBP-2 peptide-specific T cells could respond to naturally processed and presented IGFBP-2 protein, indicating that these peptides were native epitopes of IGFBP-2. Finally, both immunization with IGFBP-2 peptides as well as adoptive transfer of IGFBP-2–competent T cells mediated an antitumor effect in a transgenic mouse model of breast cancer. This is the first report of IGFBP-2 as a human tumor antigen that may be a functional therapeutic target in breast cancer. [Cancer Res 2008;68(20):8400–9]
Nicotine Promotes Mammary Tumor Migration via a Signaling Cascade Involving Protein Kinase C and cdc42
Authors: Guo Jinjin , Ibaragi Soichiro , Zhu Tongbo , Luo Ling-Yu , Hu Guo-Fu , Huppi Petra S. , Chen Chang Yan
Published: October 2008

Nicotine, one of the major components in tobacco, is at high concentrations in the bloodstream of cigarette smokers. However, the mechanisms of how nicotine affects tumor development and whether nicotine is a potential carcinogen for malignancies induced by secondhand smoking are not fully understood yet. Here, we investigate the signaling pathways by which nicotine potentiates tumorigenesis in human mammary epithelial-like MCF10A or cancerous MCF7 cells. We show that human MCF10A and MCF7 cells both express four subunits of nicotine acetylcholine receptor (nAChR). The treatment of these cells with nicotine enhances the activity of protein kinase C (PKC) α without altering the expression level of this kinase. Nicotine also stimulates [3H]thymidine incorporation into the genome of these cells as well as forces serum-starved cells to enter S phase of the cell cycle, resulting in growth promotion. Importantly, on nicotine treatment, the mobility of MCF10A and MCF7 cells is enhanced, which can be blocked by the addition of nAChR or PKC inhibitor. Experiments using small interfering RNA knockdown or ectopic expression of cdc42 showed that cdc42 functions as a downstream effector of PKC and is crucial in the regulation of nicotine-mediated migratory activity in the cells. Together, our findings suggest that nicotine, through interacting with its receptor, initiates a signaling cascade that involves PKC and cdc42 and consequently promotes migration in mammary epithelial or tumor cells. [Cancer Res 2008;68(20):8473–81]
Emerging Role of miR-106b-25/miR-17-92 Clusters in the Control of Transforming Growth Factor β Signaling
Authors: Petrocca Fabio , Vecchione Andrea , Croce Carlo M.
Published: October 2008

Inactivation of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) tumor suppressor pathway is a main step in the development of a variety of human tumors. The miR-106b-25 and miR-17-92 clusters are emerging as key modulators of TGFβ signaling in gastrointestinal and other tumors, interfering with cell cycle arrest and apoptosis when overexpressed in cancer cells. Genetic ablation of these microRNAs (miRNAs) reveals their physiologic role in the control of liver and central nervous system apoptosis, supporting the notion that miRNA-based homeostatic mechanisms can be usurped by cancer cells to resist TGFβ tumor suppression. [Cancer Res 2008;68(20):8191–4]
Construction, characterization and FISH mapping of a bacterial artificial chromosome library of Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla)
Authors: Che J. , Wang J. , Su W. , Ye J. , Wang Y. , Nie W. , Yang F.
Published: October 2008

Chinese pangolins as a representative species in the order Pholidota have highly specified morphological characters and occupy an important place in the mammalian phylogenetic tree. To obtain genomic data for this species, we have constructed a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library of Chinese pangolin. The library contains 208,272 clones with an average insert size of 122.1 kb and represents approximately eight times the Chinese pangolin haploid genome (if we assume that the Chinese pangolins have a genome size similar to human). One hundred and twenty randomly-selected BAC clones were mapped onto Chinese pangolin chromosomes by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), showing a largely unbiased chromosomal distribution. Several clones containing repetitive DNA and ribosomal DNA genes were also found. The BAC library and FISH mapped BAC clones are useful resources for comparative genomics and cytogenetics of mammals and in particular, the ongoing genome sequencing project of Chinese pangolins.
Colocalization of repetitive DNAs and silencing of major rRNA genes. A case report of the fish Astyanax janeiroensis
Authors: Vicari M.R. , Artoni R.F. , Moreira-Filho O. , Bertollo L.A.C.
Published: October 2008

The heterochromatin composition and loca- tion in the genome of the fish Astyanax janeiroensis was investigated using Chromomycin A3 and DAPI fluorochromes and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with 18S rDNA and As51 satellite DNA probes, respectively. Distinct repetitive DNA classes were found, namely: (1) C-positive centromeric/telomeric heterochromatin, (2) NOR-associated GC-rich heterochromatin (18S+/GC+) and (3) As51+/18S+ heterochromatin colocalized on 14 distinct heterochromatic domains with attenuated fluorescence of DAPI staining (As51+/18S+/DAPI attenuated signal).Besides these fourteen associated repetitive DNAs, another eight sites with only 18S rDNA were also found, comprising altogether 22 18S rDNA sites in the genome of the species under study. Up to seven 18S rDNA sites were found to be active, i.e., were characterized as positive after silver staining (Ag-NORs). It was noteworthy that in all As51+/18S+ domains the 18S rDNA were not found to be active sites due to the silencing of these genes when associated with the As51 satellite DNA in the same heterochromatic domain. The dispersion of the As51 sites in the genome of the species is hypothesized to probably originate from a transposable element. Several chromosomal and karyotype markers are similar between A. janeiroensis and A. scabripinnis, indicating a close relationship between these species.
The Use of Propensity Score Methods in Psychotherapy Research
Authors: Bartak Anna , Spreeuwenberg Marieke D. , Andrea Helene , Busschbach Jan J.V. , Croon Marcel A. , Verheul Roel , Emmelkamp Paul M.G. , Stijnen Theo
Published: October 2008

Background: Randomized controlled trials are considered the best scientific proof of effectiveness. There is increasing concern, though, about their feasibility in psychotherapy research. We discuss a quasi-experimental study design for situations in which a randomized controlled trial is not feasible. Here, as an alternative strategy, the propensity score (PS) method is used to correct for selection bias. Methods: We used data from a Dutch research project, SCEPTRE (Study on Cost-Effectiveness of Personality Disorder Treatment). The sample consisted of 749 psychotherapy patients with personality pathology. We tested whether the PS method was useful and applicable. We examined differences between 2 treatment groups (short vs. long treatment duration) in pretreatment characteristics before and after PS correction. This revealed the impact of the PS on outcome differences. Results: The PS offered statistical control over observed pretreatment differences between patients in a non-randomized study. Conclusions: When a randomized controlled trial is not possible, this quasi-experimental design using the PS could be a feasible alternative. Its advantages and limitations are discussed. Implemented carefully, this method is promising for future effectiveness research.
The Social Phobia Psychotherapy Research Network
Authors: Leichsenring F. , Hoyer J. , Beutel M. , Herpertz S. , Hiller W. , Irle E. , Joraschky P. , König H.H. , de Liz T.M. , Nolting B. , Pöhlmann K. , Salzer S. , Schauenburg H. , Stangier U. , Strauss B. , Subic-Wrana C. , Vormfelde S. , Weniger G. , Willutzki U. , Wiltink J. , Leibing E.
Published: October 2008

This paper presents the Social Phobia Psychotherapy Research Network. The research program encompasses a coordinated group of studies adopting a standard protocol and an agreed-on set of standardized measures for the assessment and treatment of social phobia (SP). In the central project (study A), a multicenter randomized controlled trial, refined models of manualized cognitive-behavioral therapy and manualized short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy are compared in the treatment of SP. A sample of 512 outpatients will be randomized to either cognitive-behavioral therapy, short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy or waiting list. Assessments will be made at baseline, at the end of treatment and 6 and 12 months after the end of treatment. For quality assurance and treatment integrity, a specific project using highly elaborated measures has been established (project Q). Study A is complemented by 4 interrelated add-on projects focusing on attachment style (study B1), on cost-effectiveness (study B2), on variation in the serotonin transporter gene in SP (study C1) and on structural and functional deviations of the hippocampus and amygdala (study C2). Thus, the Social Phobia Psychotherapy Research Network program enables a highly interdisciplinary research into SP. The unique sample size achieved by the multicenter approach allows for studies of subgroups (e.g. comorbid disorders, isolated vs. generalized SP), of responders and nonresponders of each treatment approach, for generalization of results and for a sufficient power to detect differences between treatments. Psychological and biological parameters will be related to treatment outcome, and variables for differential treatment indication will be gained. Thus, the results provided by the network may have an important impact on the treatment of SP and on the development of treatment guidelines for SP.
PET Amyloid Ligand [11C]PIB Uptake and Cerebrospinal Fluid β-Amyloid in Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Koivunen J. , Pirttilä T. , Kemppainen N. , Aalto S. , Herukka S.-K. , Jauhianen A.M. , Hänninen T. , Hallikainen M. , Någren K. , Rinne J.O. , Soininen H.
Published: October 2008

Background: In mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-type cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker profiles predict rapid progression and conversion to AD. An increased brain amyloid burden in AD and MCI has been demonstrated with PET using [11C]PIB (Pittsburgh compound B). Little is known about the relationship between these biomarkers in MCI. Methods: We studied 15 patients with amnestic MCI and 22 controls with PET using [11C]PIB. In MCI patients, CSF levels of Aβ42, pTAU, totalTAU and the Aβ42/pTAU ratio were measured. Results: In MCI patients, CSF Aβ42 was abnormal in 53% of patients, totalTAU in 67%, pTAU in 64% and the Aβ42/pTAU ratio in 64%. A composite neocortical [11C]PIB uptake score was increased in 87% of the MCI patients. Only 54% of [11C]PIB-positive subjects showed AD-type Aβ42 values. During a 2-year follow-up, 6 MCI patients converted to AD, all of them had increased neocortical PIB scores at the MCI stage. Abnormal CSF Aβ42 was found in 3 patients, pTAU in 3 patients and Aβ42/pTAU ratio in 4 patients. Conclusion: Follow-up studies are needed to confirm whether [11C]PIB uptake might be more sensitive than CSF Aβ42 concentration in detecting increased amyloid burden in MCI, as suggested by the results of this study.
Drug-Eluting Stents in Preclinical Studies
Authors: Schwartz Robert S. , Edelman Elazer , Virmani Renu , Carter Andrew , Granada Juan F. , Kaluza Greg L. , Chronos Nicolas A.F. , Robinson Keith A. , Waksman Ron , Weinberger Judah , Wilson Gregory J. , Wilensky Robert L.
Published: October 2008

Coronary drug-eluting stents are commonplace in clinical practice with acceptable safety and efficacy. Preclinical evaluation of novel drug-eluting stent technologies has great importance for understanding safety and possibly efficacy of these technologies, and well-defined preclinical testing methods clearly benefit multiple communities within the developmental, testing, and clinical evaluation chain. An earlier consensus publication enjoyed widespread adoption but is in need of updating. This publication is an update, presenting an integrated view for testing drug-eluting technologies in preclinical models, including novel devices such as bioabsorbable coatings, totally bioabsorbable stents, bifurcation stents, and stent-free balloon-based drug delivery. This consensus document was produced by preclinical and translational scientists and investigators engaged in interventional technology community. The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recently issued a Draft Guidance for Industry Document for Drug-Eluting Stents. This expert consensus document is consistent with the Food and Drug Administration guidance. The dynamic nature of this field mandates future modifications and additions that will be added over time.
Health Law in Europe: From the Present to the Future
Authors: Gevers Sjef
Published: October 2008

This article deals with the development of health law in Europe, and in particular with its future: what challenges are waiting us and are we able to cope with them? After identifying what makes health law different from other disciplines, the first part discusses how it has developed and where we stand now, both at the national and at the European level. The second part focuses on the future. After touching upon a number of societal developments and the increasing ‘Europeanisation’ and globalisation of health issues, it addresses the question how we should anticipate the challenges ahead.
Downstream Development Associated with the Extratropical Transition of Tropical Cyclones over the Western North Pacific
Authors: Harr Patrick A. , Dea Jonathan M.
Published: October 2008

The movement of a tropical cyclone into the midlatitudes involves interactions among many complex physical processes over a variety of space and time scales. Furthermore, the extratropical transition (ET) of a tropical cyclone may also result in a high-amplitude Rossby wave response that can extend to near-hemispheric scales. After an ET event occurs over the western portion of a Northern Hemisphere ocean basin, the high-amplitude downstream response often forces anomalous midlatitude circulations for periods of days to a week. These circulations may then be related to high-impact weather events far downstream of the forcing by the ET event. In this study, downstream development following ET events over the western North Pacific Ocean is examined. Local eddy kinetic energy analyses are conducted on four cases of North Pacific tropical cyclones of varying characteristics during ET into varying midlatitude flow characteristics during 15 July–30 September 2005. The goal is to examine the impact of each case on downstream development across the North Pacific during a period in which these events might increase the midlatitude cyclogenesis across the North Pacific during a season in which cyclogenesis is typically weak. Four typhoon (TY) cases from the summer of 2005 are chosen to represent the wide spectrum of variability in ET. This includes a case (TY Nabi 14W) that directly resulted in an intense midlatitude cyclone, a case in which a weak midlatitude cyclone resulted (TY Banyan 07W), a case in which the decaying tropical cyclone was absorbed into the midlatitude flow (TY Guchol 12W), and a case (TY Saola 17W) in which the tropical cyclone decayed under the influence of strong vertical wind shear. The variability in downstream response to each ET case is related to specific physical characteristics associated with the evolution of the ET process and the phasing between the poleward-moving tropical cyclone and the midlatitude circulation into which it is moving. A case of downstream development that occurred during September 2005 without an ET event is compared with the four ET cases.
Using a Scale-Selective Filter for Dynamical Downscaling with the Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model
Authors: Thatcher Marcus , McGregor John L.
Published: October 2008

This article examines dynamical downscaling with a scale-selective filter in the Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM). In this study, 1D and 2D scale-selective filters have been implemented using a convolution-based scheme, since a convolution can be readily evaluated in terms of CCAM’s native conformal cubic coordinates. The downscaling accuracy of 1D and 2D scale-selective filters is evaluated after downscaling NCEP Global Forecast System analyses for 2006 from 200-km resolution to 60-km resolution over Australia. The 1D scale-selective filter scheme was found to downscale the analyses with similar accuracy to a 2D filter but required significantly fewer computations. The 1D and 2D scale-selective filters were also found to downscale the analyses more accurately than a far-field nudging scheme (i.e., analogous to a boundary-value nudging approach). It is concluded that when the model is required to reproduce the host model behavior above a specified length scale then the use of an appropriately designed 1D scale-selective filter can be a computationally efficient approach to dynamical downscaling for models having a cube-based geometry.
Success Attained, Deterred, and Denied: Divergent Pathways to Social Mobility in Los Angeles's New Second Generation
Authors: Min Zhou  , Lee Jennifer , Vallejo Jody Agius , Tafoya-Estrada Rosaura , Yang Sao Xiong
Published: October 2008

This article highlights divergent pathways to mobility among members of the new second generation, identifies key mechanisms affecting the choices they make in their pursuit of success, and explains how specific choices were pivotal in determining outcomes of segmented assimilation. First, the authors evaluate definitions of success and pathways to social mobility, advancing a subject-centered approach to study second-generation mobility. Second, the article turns to the results from the authors' ongoing qualitative study of the new second generation in Los Angeles to examine cases that exemplify predictable and anomalous outcomes. Third, the authors zoom in on patterns that emerge from real-life histories to clarify key mechanisms affecting the decisions made by members of the second generation that are consequential in shaping their paths to mobility. The study dispels some enduring myths about group-based cultures, stereotypes, and processes of assimilation. It also advances theoretical debates about intergenerational mobility and immigrant incorporation.
Transnational Environmentalism at Europe's Boundaries
Authors: Ignatow Gabriel
Published: October 2008

This article discusses the environmental activism of the Aukuras and Romuva movements in Lithuania, and of several organizations opposed to a dam project in the Tunceli region of Turkey. Since the late 1980s, these movements have combined celebration of cultural traditions and identities with environmental protests, lobbying and education projects. Implicit in these movements is a response to criticisms that environmentalism has become overly bureaucratized and perhaps hegemonic, and a challenge to theories that view global environmentalism as a homogeneous movement. The author argues that although these movements are similarly shaped by globalizing forces — including economic liberalization, migration and international institutions — globalization has, paradoxically perhaps, given rise to social movements blending traditional, local identities with global concerns such as the environment. These movements suggest that environmental activism in developing nations subject to forces of globalization may bear little resemblance to past movements.
Extending the Emotion-in-Relationships Model to Conversation
Authors: Knobloch Leanne K.
Published: October 2008

This article extends the Emotion-in-Relationships Model (ERM; Berscheid, 1983, 1991) to conversation. It begins by theorizing about how interference and facilitation from partners may predict features of message production and message processing. Then, it reports the method and findings of a study in which 125 married couples engaged in two videotaped conversations. Multilevel modeling results revealed that interference from partners corresponded with uncoordinated conversation, disaffiliative messages, unfavorable cognitive appraisals, and negative emotional reactions. With a few exceptions, facilitation from partners shared the opposite associations with the dependent variables. The article concludes by assessing the value of ERM as a theory of interpersonal communication.
The Contentious Fans
Authors: Braun Robert , Vliegenthart Rens
Published: October 2008

This article poses the question of which macro-sociological explanations best predict the level of soccer supporters' violence. By conceptualizing supporters' violence as a form of contentious violence, four possible explanations are proposed: repression, media attention, unemployment and aggressive play on the pitch. These explanations are tested for the occurrence of violence around soccer matches in the Netherlands during the period 2001—5. The authors employ a Generalized Event Count model and multi-level logistic regression analysis and demonstrate that media attention, unemployment and aggressive play on the pitch are significant explanatory factors for the occurrence of violence. Police repression does not have a significant impact.
(De)facing the Self
Authors: de Freitas Elizabeth , Paton Jillian
Published: October 2008

This article draws on Lacanian theories of subjectivity to examine notions of the self in autoethnography. The authors discuss philosophical differences between Humanist and post-Humanist notions of the self and show how these notions are correlated to particular self-study genres, such as confession and testimony. The authors argue that autoethnographic narratives exhibit contradictory tendencies toward both Humanist and post-Humanist conceptions of subjectivity. Questionnaire responses from four participants are analyzed for evidence of this contradiction. The article concludes by suggesting that resolving the contradiction is neither possible nor desirable.
Switching first-line disease-modifying therapy after failure: impact on the course of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gajofatto A , Bacchetti P , Grimes B , High A , Waubant E
Published: October 2008

Background

Options for non-responders to relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) first-line disease-modifying therapies (DMT) are limited. We explored whether switching first-line DMT is effective.

Methods

Patients with RRMS who first received interferon-beta (IFNB) or glatiramer acetate (GA) were classified in three categories: DMT change because of suboptimal response, DMT change because of other reasons, and no DMT change during follow-up. Outcomes included annualized relapse rate (ARR) and relapse-free proportions.

Results

We identified 597 patients who initiated first-line DMT. For patients who did not change DMT ( n = 240), pre-DMT and on-DMT median ARR were 0.50 and 0 ( P < 0.0001). At 24 months, 76% (95%CI = 69–81%) of patients who did not change DMT were relapse-free. Of the 155 who switched because of suboptimal response, 101 switched to another first-line DMT. Median ARR pre-DMT, on first DMT and second DMT were: 0.50, 0.55, and 0.25 for switchers from IFNB to GA (IFNB/GA, n = 12) (pre-DMT versus first DMT: P = 0.92; first versus second DMT: P = 0.31); 0.90, 0.50, and 0 for switchers from GA to IFNB (GA/IFNB, n = 18; P = 0.19; P = 0.01); 0.50, 0.68, and 0 for switchers from an IFNB to another IFNB (IFNB/IFNB’, n = 71; P = 0.34; P = 0.02). Estimated relapse-free proportion after 24 months of treatment was 42% (95%CI=15–66%) during the period on IFNB versus 53% (95%CI = 17–80%) on GA for IFNB/GA ( P = 0.21); 12% (95%CI = 0–40%) on GA versus 87% (95%CI = 59–97%) on IFNB for GA/IFNB ( P = 0.001); and 41% (95%CI = 29–52%) on initial IFNB versus 67% (95%CI = 53–79%) on subsequent IFNB for IFNB/IFNB’ ( P = 0.0001).

Conclusions

Switching first-line DMT in patients with RRMS failing initial therapy may be effective in many cases.
Children's Attitudes Toward Singing and Song Recordings Related to Gender, Ethnicity, and Age
Authors: Siebenaler Dennis
Published: October 2008

This study examines students' attitudes toward singing and choir participation related to gender, age, and ethnic background. It also looks at attitudes toward recordings from basal music series that are designed to provide an appropriate model and to encourage singing. Participants ( N = 249) were third to fifth graders enrolled in two public schools in Texas. After completing a brief survey concerning their attitudes toward singing and choir, participants listened to nine recordings of various songs selected from two music textbook series. For each song, participants indicated their preference for the singers and the song. Results indicate few significant differences between boys and girls in their attitudes toward singing, but less positive attitudes for singing from the Hispanic participants, particularly the males. African American participants did not differ by gender and were more positive toward singing and all types of song recordings. The decline of positive attitudes toward school music was found primarily with the fifth graders.
ICF components of corresponding outcome measures in flexor tendon rehabilitation – a systematic review
Authors: Oltman Renée , Neises Gudrun , Scheible Daniel , Mehrtens Gerhard , Grüneberg Christian
Published: October 2008

Background

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) delivers a holistic approach to health conditions. The objective of the present study is to provide an overview of flexor tendon rehabilitation outcome measures with respect to ICF components. Furthermore, it aims to investigate to which extent current assessments measure aspects of health according to these components primarily focussing onactivityandparticipation.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify all studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Studies were only included if they assessed more thanbody function and body structureand referred to the ICF componentsactivityandparticipation. The outcome measures were analysed and their linkage to the ICF components were investigated to examine to which degree aspects of health outcome as defined by the ICF were considered.

Results

As anticipated, the application of outcome measures after flexor tendon repair is non conform. In many studies the emphasis still lies on physical impairment neglecting activity limitations and participation restrictions.

Aspects of health after flexor tendon repair could be assessed more adequately and cover patients' needs more sufficiently by choosing outcome measures which refer to all aspects of functioning.

Conclusion

The ICF can help to identify aspects of health which are not being considered. The ICF can help promote further development of adequate outcome measures including activity limitation and participation restrictions by targeting patient centred goals and respecting patients' needs.
beta1-integrin mediates myelin-associated glycoprotein signaling in neuronal growth cones
Authors: Goh Eyleen LK , Young Ju Kim , Kuwako Kenichiro , Tessier-Lavigne Marc , He Zhigang , Griffin John W , Ming Guo-li
Published: October 2008

Several myelin-associated factors that inhibit axon growth of mature neurons, including Nogo66, myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) and oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein (OMgp), can associate with a common GPI-linked protein Nogo-66 receptor (NgR). Accumulating evidence suggests that myelin inhibitors also signal through unknown NgR-independent mechanisms. Here we show that MAG, a RGD tri-peptide containing protein, forms a complex with β1-integrin to mediate axonal growth cone turning responses of several neuronal types. Mutations that alter the RGD motif in MAG or inhibition of β1-integrin function, but not removal of NgRs, abolish these MAG-dependent events. In contrast, OMgp-induced repulsion is not affected by inhibition of b1-integrin function. We further show that MAG stimulates tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which in turn is required for MAG-induced growth cone turning. These studies identify β1-integrin as a specific mediator for MAG in growth cone turning responses, acting through FAK activation.
A Longitudinal Study of Psychological and Social Factors Affecting Recovery from Psychiatric Breakdowns
Authors: Oatley Keith , Perring Christina
Published: October 2008

Thirty-five people who had suffered a recent onset of symptoms of depression and/or anxiety were interviewed soon after being seen by a clinician, and again six months later. Symptom scores at the second interview were predicted by whether any plans subjects had formed by the first interview had gone wrong, by major non-health difficulties, and by internal, stable and global attributions made at the first interview about the event or difficulty that was most distressing before symptoms became severe.
The Motor Disorders of Mental Handicap
Authors: Rogers D. , Karki C. , Bartlett C. , Pocock P.
Published: October 2008

Among 236 in-patients in one hospital for the mentally handicapped, there was a significant relationship between the amount of motor disorder (rated using a comprehensive check-list) and the severity of mental handicap, the presence of associated psychiatric disorder and the use of neuroleptic medication. The population was fairly evenly divided between those currently, previously and never having received neuroleptic medication. All categories of motor disorder, including abnormal movements, were present in all three subgroups. Neuroleptic medication appeared to modify the expression of motor disorder rather than producing it de novo. The range and frequency of motor disorders was comparable with that in patients with severe psychiatric illness. A common cerebral basis for the motor disorders of patients with mental handicap and severe psychiatric illness is suggested.
The Neuropsychiatric Evolution of a Case of Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Lee Sing
Published: October 2008

The neuropsychiatric changes in a Chinese patient suffering from progressive supranuclear palsy led to a difficult diagnosis. Polysomnography revealed sleep fragmentation and central apnoea.
Encephalopathy Resembling Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease Following Oral, Prescribed Doses of Bismuth Nitrate
Authors: Von Bose Michael J. , Zaudig Michael
Published: October 2008

A patient given bismuth nitrate in the recommended dose range over 16 months developed panic attacks and a major depressive syndrome and, after 15 months, a myoclonic encephalopathy resembling Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease. He recovered four months after bismuth had been discontinued. Bismuth preparations are becoming popular in the treatment of gastritis; close attention to neurological and psychiatric symptoms seems mandatory.
Commentary on the Modified Rogers Scale and the ‘Conflict of Paradigms' Hypothesis
Authors: Liddle Peter F.
Published: October 2008

The variety and complexity of schizophrenic movement disorders renders them difficult to assess. In particular, the complex disorders of motility that appear to reflect disturbance of the will demand an evaluation of the purpose of the movement. The difficulties of assessment are compounded by the fact that the antipsychotic drugs used to treat the illness can produce motor disorders that resemble the disorders intrinsic to the illness. In advancing his ‘conflict of paradigms' hypothesis, Rogers (1985) implied that emphasis on the distinction between intrinsic and drug-induced movement disorders might be misplaced because of overlap not only in the observable characteristics of these disorders, but also in the underlying neuropathology.
The Estimated Density of D2 Striatal Receptors in Schizophrenia
Authors: Martinot J. L. , Paillère-Martinot M. L. , Loc'h C. , Hardy P. , Poirier M. F. , Mazoyer B. , Beaufils B. , Mazière B. , Allilaire J. F. , Syrota A.
Published: October 2008

The striatal D2 receptors of 19 untreated schizophrenics and 14 normal control subjects were investigated with PET and 76Br-bromolisuride. The ratio of radioactivity in the striatum to that in the cerebellum was taken as an index of the striatal D2 receptor density. There was no significant difference between the control and the schizophrenic groups, nor any difference between subgroups of patients defined by clinical type or course of illness, and no relationship between the striatum:cerebellum activity ratio and SANS or SAPS ratings of symptoms. Unlike in the controls, this ratio was not correlated with age in schizophrenics. This study suggests that there is no quantitative abnormality of striatal D2 dopamine receptors in schizophrenia.
An In-patient Behavioural Psychotherapy Unit
Authors: Thornicroft Graham , Colson Louise , Marks Isaac
Published: October 2008

An in-patient behavioural psychotherapy unit is described that emphasises self-treatment, teaching relatives to become cotherapists while resident in the unit, routine collection of outcome data, minimising use of medication, and absence of night nurses. Patients are referred from all over the UK, mostly with chronic disabling OCD. Treatment includes self-exposure and self-imposed response prevention. A year's cohort (52 patients) showed substantial improvement that consolidated during six-month follow-up (83% decrease in total ritual time per day, 58% fall in target ritual scores, better social adjustment), and families noted relief of burden; eight patients dropped out. Further such units are needed in the UK, perhaps on a regional basis; they could be run as specialist hostels.
Early Cortical Tactile-Evoked Potentials, Laterality and Schizophrenia
Authors: Allen Jane E. , Jenner Alec , Stevens John C.
Published: October 2008

No significant difference in the lateralisation of tactile-evoked potentials was found when a tactile stimulus was applied to the index finger of 14 schizophrenic patients and 14 age- and sex-matched controls. The early tactile responses, recorded from contralateral and ipsilateral parietal scalp electrodes, were compared. Our results differ from previously reported results.
Molecular Genetics of the Major Psychoses: The Role of the Medical Research Council
Authors: Rees D. A. , Levy Katherine
Published: October 2008

Research supported by the Medical Research Council (MRC) is in part initiated in response to proposals from research workers and in part identified by the Council undertaking regular reviews of its portfolio, to identify areas of particular promise, and to ensure that they are adequately supported. One such review, carried out by a group chaired by Professor J. K. Wing, on research in schizophrenia has been published (Schizophrenia and Allied Conditions Committee, 1987), and in the intervening years has been influential in shaping the Council's policy in the field. The report highlighted the molecular genetics of schizophrenia as an example of the ever-increasing number of areas in which an interdisciplinary approach is essential and in which advances in one field can be exploited in another.