bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Age and 17β-Estradiol on Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, and Prodynorphin Gene Expression in the Arcuate-Median Eminence of Female Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Eghlidi Dominique H. , Haley Gwendolen E. , Noriega Nigel C. , Kohama Steven G. , Urbanski Henryk F.
Published: June 2010

The neuropeptides kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin A (collectively abbreviated as KNDy) are, respectively, encoded by KiSS-1, NKB, and PDYN and are coexpressed by neurons of the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC). Here, using quantitative real-time PCR, we examined age-related changes in the expression of genes encoding KNDy and associated receptors G protein-coupled receptor 54 (encoded by GPR54), neurokinin 3 receptor (encoded by NK3), and κ-opioid receptor (encoded by KOR), in the female rhesus macaque ARC-median eminence (ARC-ME). Expression of KiSS-1 and NKB was highly elevated in old perimenopausal compared with young or middle-aged premenopausal animals. To test whether these age-related changes could be attributed to perimenopausal loss of sex steroids, we then examined KNDy, GPR54, NK3, and KOR expression changes in response to ovariectomy (OVX) and exposure to 17β-estradiol (E2). Short-term (7 months) OVX (with or without 1 month of estrogen replacement) failed to modulate the expression of any of the KNDy-related genes. In contrast, long-term (∼4 yr) OVX significantly increased KiSS-1 and NKB expression, and this was reversed by E2 administration. Finally, we examined the expression of KNDy-related genes in young adult females during the early follicular, late follicular, or midluteal phases of their menstrual cycle but found no difference. Together, the results suggest that short-term alterations in circulating E2 levels, such as those occurring during the menstrual cycle, may have little effect on the ARC-ME expression of KNDy and associated receptors. Nevertheless, they clearly demonstrate that loss of ovarian steroid negative feedback that occurs during perimenopause plays a major role in modulating the activity of KNDy circuits of the aging primate ARC-ME.
Embryonic germ cells from mice and rats exhibit properties consistent with a generic pluripotent ground state
Authors: Leitch Harry G. , Blair Kate , Mansfield William , Ayetey Harold , Humphreys Peter , Nichols Jennifer , Surani M. Azim , Smith Austin
Published: June 2010

Mouse and rat embryonic stem cells can be sustained in defined medium by dual inhibition (2i) of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (Erk1/2) cascade and of glycogen synthase kinase 3. The inhibitors suppress differentiation and enable self-renewal of pluripotent cells that are ex vivo counterparts of naïve epiblast cells in the mature blastocyst. Pluripotent stem cell lines can also be derived from unipotent primordial germ cells via a poorly understood process of epigenetic reprogramming. These are termed embryonic germ (EG) cells to denote their distinct origin. Here we investigate whether EG cell self-renewal and derivation are supported by 2i. We report that mouse EG cells can be established with high efficiency using 2i in combination with the cytokine leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF). Furthermore, addition of fibroblast growth factor or stem cell factor is unnecessary using 2i-LIF. The derived EG cells contribute extensively to healthy chimaeric mice, including to the germline. Using the same conditions, we describe the first derivations of EG cells from the rat. Rat EG cells express a similar marker profile to rat and mouse ES cells. They have a diploid karyotype, can be clonally expanded and genetically manipulated, and are competent for multilineage colonisation of chimaeras. These findings lend support to the postulate of a conserved molecular ground state in pluripotent rodent cells. Future research will determine the extent to which this is maintained in other mammals and whether, in some species, primordial germ cells might be a more tractable source than epiblast for the capture of naïve pluripotent stem cells.
UDP-galactose 4′ epimerase (GALE) is essential for development ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Sanders Rebecca D. , Sefton Jennifer M. I. , Moberg Kenneth H. , Fridovich-Keil Judith L.
Published: June 2010

UDP-galactose 4′ epimerase (GALE) catalyzes the interconversion of UDP-galactose and UDP-glucose in the final step of the Leloir pathway; human GALE (hGALE) also interconverts UDP-N-acetylgalactosamine and UDP-N-acetylglucosamine. GALE therefore plays key roles in the metabolism of dietary galactose, in the production of endogenous galactose, and in maintaining the ratios of key substrates for glycoprotein and glycolipid biosynthesis. Partial impairment of hGALE results in the potentially lethal disorder epimerase-deficiency galactosemia. We report here the generation and initial characterization of a first whole-animal model of GALE deficiency using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Our results confirm that GALE function is essential in developing animals; Drosophila lacking GALE die as embryos but are rescued by the expression of a human GALE transgene. Larvae in which GALE has been conditionally knocked down die within days of GALE loss. Conditional knockdown and transgene expression studies further demonstrate that GALE expression in the gut primordium and Malpighian tubules is both necessary and sufficient for survival. Finally, like patients with generalized epimerase deficiency galactosemia, Drosophila with partial GALE loss survive in the absence of galactose but succumb in development if exposed to dietary galactose. These data establish the utility of the fly model of GALE deficiency and set the stage for future studies to define the mechanism(s) and modifiers of outcome in epimerase deficiency galactosemia.
Distinct Catalytic Effect of Micellar Solution of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) for One-Pot Conversion of Alkyl Halides to Disulfides via an Odourless Process Using Thiourea and MnO2
Authors: Firouzabadi Habib , Iranpoor Nasser , Abbasi Mohammad
Published: June 2010

A novel one-pot odourless synthesis of symmetrical disulfides from their corresponding halides in aqueous media using thiourea and MnO2 in the presence of NaHCO3 or Na2CO3 catalyzed by micellar solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is described. By this method, primary, allylic and benzylic halides were converted into their corresponding disulfides in high yields.
Pregnancy in pancreas–kidney transplant recipients: report of three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Bramham Kate , Lightstone Liz , Taylor John , Hakim Nadey S , Harding Kate , McCarthy Andrew , Chowdhury Paramit , Duncan Neil , Nelson-Piercy Catherine
Published: June 2010

Seventy-three pregnancies in 43 women with SPK have now been described by the US National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry (NTPR) (established in 1991), which contains self-reported data from questionnaires and hospital records. These women have high rates of complications despite normoglycaemia and restoration of renal function. We describe the pregnancies of three SPK recipients in the UK managed in joint renal obstetric clinics and discuss the antenatal and postnatal complications specific to SPK transplants.
Obstetric outcomes in women with end-stage renal disease on chronic dialysis: a review
Authors: Yang L Y , Thia E W H , Tan L K
Published: June 2010

Pregnancies in women on chronic dialysis for end-stage renal disease are high risk, but outcomes appear to have improved with increasing experience and advances in dialysis care. This paper reviews the existing data on outcomes in such pregnancies to enable evidence-based preconception counselling and anticipation of antenatal complications.
Distribute Instructions for Oral Dispenser; Seasonal Vaccine “H1N1” is Not 2009 Pandemic Strain; Same Name, Different Drug; Confusion between Organ Preservation Solutions and IV Containers; Enteral Nutrition Safety; LQ? LAR? DSC? Drug Name Suffixes and Their Meanings
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: June 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Tocilizumab
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: June 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive five to six well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing inservices. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The June 2010 monograph topics are on rifaximin in hepatic encephalopathy, ticagrelor, fingolimod, doxepin hydrochloride tablets, and carglumic acid tablets. The DUE/MUE is on rifaximin.
New Drugs Approved by the FDA; New Dosage Forms and Indications Approved by the FDA; Agents Pending FDA Approval; New Drug/Biologics License Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Supplemental Applications Filed by Manufacturer; Significant Labeling Changes or “Dear Health Professional” Letters Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: June 2010

This monthly feature will help readers keep current on new drugs, new indications, dosage forms, and safety-related changes in labeling or use. Efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, if there are any questions, please let us know at bakerdan@wsu.edu .
Recent Publications on Medications and Pharmacy
Authors: Sterling Jacyntha A.
Published: June 2010

Hospital Pharmacy presents this feature to keep pharmacists abreast of new publications in the medical/pharmacy literature. Articles of interest regarding a broad scope of topics are abstracted monthly.
To Bundle or Not to Bundle: Determinants of the Profitability of Multi-Item Auctions
Authors: Leszczyc Peter T.L. Popkowski , Häubl Gerald
Published: June 2010

This article introduces and empirically tests a conceptual model of the key determinants of the profitability of bundling in auction markets. The model encapsulates hypotheses about how seller revenue from the combined (i.e., bundle) auction of component products relative to that from separate auctions of the components is influenced by the heterogeneity in bidders’ product valuations, the degree of complementarity between component products, the particular multi-item selling strategy, and the outside availability of the products. The results of three field experiments show that though bundle auctions tend to be less profitable for noncomplementary and substitute products, they are on average 50% more profitable than separate auctions when there is (even only moderate) complementarity between the component products. The latter effect is greater when the bundle and the separate components are offered at different times, and it is more pronounced for services than for tangible goods. The findings also identify conditions under which each of the essential multi-item selling strategies for fixed-price settings (pure components, pure bundling, and mixed bundling) tends to maximize seller revenue in auctions.
The Analysis of Fracture Mechanisms of Ferritic Steel 13HMF at Low Temperatures
Authors: Neimitz A. , Galkiewicz J.
Published: June 2010

In this paper, the transition from a ductile fracture mechanism to a cleavage fracture mechanism is analyzed. Microscopic observations of the domains in front of a crack were followed by numerical analysis. The microscopic observations were accompanied by analysis of the fracture surfaces. Both the influences of temperature and an in-plane constraint on the mechanism transition were taken into account. The numerical analyses were carried out using two different models of a crack: Stationary and propagating. The direct, simultaneous influence of the level of the opening stress maximum, the characteristic distance in front of the crack tip, and the level of plastic strain on the ductile-cleavage transition have been confirmed.
Performance of Olive Waste Ash Concrete Exposed to Thermal Cycling
Authors: Al-Akhras Nabil M. , Attom Mousa F. , Al-Akhras Khaled M.
Published: June 2010

This paper explores the influence of olive waste ash (OWA) on the performance of concrete to thermal cycling. The performance of concrete to thermal cycling was evaluated by measuring the compressive strength, electrical conductance, and visual inspection of cracks in concrete specimens. Three OWA replacements were utilized in the study: 7, 15, and 22 % by weight of sand. The other experimental parameters investigated in the study were aggregate type (crushed limestone and volcanic pumice), water to cement (w/c) ratio (0.4 and 0.6), and curing type (moist and autoclaving curing). After the initial moist curing, concrete specimens were exposed to thermal cycling regime in the range from 30 to 150°C during a period of 24 h using an electric furnace. The results of the study showed that thermal cycling of OWA concrete resulted in significant cracks and damage in concrete specimens. The OWA concrete was found more resistant to thermal cycling compared to plain concrete. Additionally, the resistance of OWA concrete to thermal cycling increased with increasing the OWA content. The OWA concrete containing pumice aggregate showed more resistance to thermal cycling than OWA concrete containing limestone aggregate. The resistance of OWA concrete at w/c ratio of 0.4 to thermal cycling was observed higher compared to OWA concrete at w/c ratio of 0.6. The autoclaved OWA concrete showed higher improvement to thermal cycling than the moist cured OWA concrete.
Wetting Behavior of Solders
Authors: Kumar Girish , Prabhu K. Narayan
Published: June 2010

Lead bearing solders have been used extensively in the assembly of modern electronic circuits. However, increasing environmental and health concerns about the toxicity of lead has led to the development of lead-free solders. Wetting of solders on surfaces is a complex and important phenomenon that affects the interfacial microstructure and hence the reliability of a solder joint. The solder material reacts with a small amount of the base metal and wets the metal by intermetallic compound (IMC) formation. The degree and rate of wetting are the two important parameters that characterize the wetting phenomenon. Contact angle is a measure of the degree of wetting or wettability of a surface by a liquid. Spreading kinetics in a given system is strongly affected by the experimental conditions. In reactive systems like soldering, wetting and chemical interfacial reactions are interrelated, and hence for successful modeling, it is essential to assess the effect of interfacial reactions on kinetics of wetting. Solder wetting necessarily involves the metallurgical reactions between the filler metal and the base metal. This interaction at the solder/base metal interface results in the formation of IMCs. During soldering an additional driving force besides the imbalance in interfacial energies originates from the interfacial reactions. The formation of IMC has significant influence on contact angle. The presence of IMCs (thin, continuous, and uniform layer) between solders and substrate metals is an essential requirement for good bonding. Optimum thickness of an IMC layer offers better wettability and an excellent solder joint reliability. However, due to their inherent brittle nature and tendency to generate structural defects, a too thick IMC layer at the interface may degrade the joint. In this paper, the factors affecting the wetting behavior of solders and evolution of interfacial microstructure are reviewed and discussed.
Deletion of a Novel F-Box Protein, MUS-10, in Neurospora crassa Leads to Altered Mitochondrial Morphology, Instability of mtDNA and Senescence
Authors: Kato Akihiro , Kurashima Kiminori , Chae Michael , Sawada Satoshi , Hatakeyama Shin , Tanaka Shuuitsu , Inoue Hirokazu
Published: June 2010

While mitochondria are renowned for their role in energy production, they also perform several other integral functions within the cell. Thus, it is not surprising that mitochondrial dysfunction can negatively impact cell viability. Although mitochondria have received an increasing amount of attention in recent years, there is still relatively little information about how proper maintenance of mitochondria and its genomes is achieved. The Neurospora crassa mus-10 mutant was first identified through its increased sensitivity to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and was thus believed to be defective in some aspect of DNA repair. Here, we report that mus-10 harbors fragmented mitochondria and that it accumulates deletions in its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), suggesting that the mus-10 gene product is involved in mitochondrial maintenance. Interestingly, mus-10 begins to senesce shortly after deletions are visualized in its mtDNA. To uncover the function of MUS-10, we used a gene rescue approach to clone the mus-10 gene and discovered that it encodes a novel F-box protein. We show that MUS-10 interacts with a core component of the Skp, Cullin, F-box containing (SCF) complex, SCON-3, and that its F-box domain is essential for its function in vivo. Thus, we provide evidence that MUS-10 is part of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex involved in maintaining the integrity of mitochondria and may function to prevent cellular senescence.
Estimating the Parameters of Selection on Nonsynonymous Mutations inDrosophila pseudoobscuraandD. miranda
Authors: Haddrill Penelope R , Loewe Laurence , Charlesworth Brian
Published: June 2010

We present the results of surveys of diversity in sets of >40 X-linked and autosomal loci in samples from natural populations of Drosophila miranda and D. pseudoobscura, together with their sequence divergence from D. affinis. Mean silent site diversity in D. miranda is approximately one-quarter of that in D. pseudoobscura; mean X-linked silent diversity is about three-quarters of that for the autosomes in both species. Estimates of the distribution of selection coefficients against heterozygous, deleterious nonsynonymous mutations from two different methods suggest a wide distribution, with coefficients of variation greater than one, and with the average segregating amino acid mutation being subject to only very weak selection. Only a small fraction of new amino acid mutations behave as effectively neutral, however. A large fraction of amino acid differences between D. pseudoobscura and D. affinis appear to have been fixed by positive natural selection, using three different methods of estimation; estimates between D. miranda and D. affinis are more equivocal. Sources of bias in the estimates, especially those arising from selection on synonymous mutations and from the choice of genes, are discussed and corrections for these applied. Overall, the results show that both purifying selection and positive selection on nonsynonymous mutations are pervasive.
Long-Term Results of Immediately Loaded Fast Bone Regeneration–Coated Implants Placed in Fresh Extraction Sites in the Upper Jaw
Authors: Malchiodi Luciano , Corrocher Giovanni , Cucchi Alessandro , Ghensi Paolo , Bissolotti Guido , Nocini Pier Francesco
Published: June 2010

Recently, many authors have investigated the results of immediately loaded implants in fresh extraction sites, reporting favorable success rates, but only a few studies have included a long-term follow-up in the maxilla with analysis of clinical and radiographic data. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictability of the immediate loading protocol with fast bone regeneration (FBR)-coated implants placed in postextractive sites in the maxilla, considering the success rate after at least 5 years of follow-up. Moreover, the clinical and radiographic results are evaluated in terms of soft tissue conditions and crestal bone loss values. One hundred fifty-eight implants were inserted following dental extraction in 70 consecutively operated patients. Each implant was immediately prosthesized. The data were collected before surgical planning, at the time of insertion, and after 3 and 5 years of occlusal loading. Specific success criteria were used to assess the success rate of immediately loaded postextraction implants. Clinical and radiographic examinations were used to determine long-term results. After a 5-year follow-up, 2 implants were lost, with a cumulative success rate of 98.7%. The radiographic and clinical data revealed well-maintained hard and soft tissues, with acceptable long-term results. The use of immediately loaded FBR-coated implants in fresh extraction sockets is shown to be a predictable technique if implants are inserted in selected cases and positioned with great care, following thorough preoperative analysis.
Risk analysis for tunnelling ground movement assessments
Authors: Devriendt M.
Published: June 2010

Ground movements arising from tunnelling projects in urban areas have the potential to cause damage to overlying structures. Clients of tunnelling projects are therefore required to consult with owners of structures to demonstrate that the construction techniques proposed for the works will limit damage to an acceptable level. Displacements arising from tunnelled excavations are often calculated using a semi-empirical approach by considering the ground movement profile to be modelled by a Gaussian or normal distribution. A staged approach is then conventionally used for appraising the level of damage that structures will be subjected to as a consequence of these ground movements. This paper describes a quantitative risk analysis processes that can be used alongside a staged approach to damage assessment. The approach described in the paper allows project participants to make informed decisions for selecting cost-effective mitigation measures that may be required for tunnelling in urban areas. The process outlined demonstrates benefits for insurers, clients, and consulting and contracting engineers in understanding the level of risk of damage to structures. The process can also be integrated into an appropriate risk management strategy.
Optical fibre strain measurement for tunnel lining monitoring
Authors: Cheung L. L. K. , Soga K. , Bennett P. J. , Kobayashi Y. , Amatya B. , Wright P.
Published: June 2010

A trial strain-monitoring system using Brillouin optical time-domain reflectometry (BOTDR) technology was set up to monitor joint movements in the concrete tunnel lining in an existing London Underground tunnel. The BOTDR strain sensor system allows the measurement of strain distribution along an optical fibre using the reflective technique, requiring access to only one end of the fibre. Measurements were obtained by a strain-sensing optical fibre installed along the tunnel lining. The joint movements were captured by measuring the strain along the fibre across the segment joints. The results show that there is good agreement between the joint movements evaluated by the BOTDR strain sensor system and those by conventional vibrating-wire strain gauges. Whereas conventional strain measurement gauges monitor the strain variations at discrete locations, a BOTDR strain sensor can provide a continuous strain distribution of the tunnel lining. The results demonstrate the practicality of using the BOTDR strain-sensing system to monitor the movement of tunnel linings.
Displacement of tunnels from a basement excavation in London
Authors: Devriendt M. , Doughty L. , Morrison P. , Pillai A.
Published: June 2010

A site in central London called One New Change is currently being redeveloped. The new development has a basement that extends to approximately 14 m below ground level. Demolition of the building that formerly occupied the site, excavation of the new basement and construction of the new development have caused unloading and subsequent reloading of the ground. This change of loading has resulted in displacements occurring to the nearby London Underground Central Line tunnels that run parallel to the northern boundary of the site. The crowns of the tunnels vary from approximately 20 to 25 m below ground level. The piles and retaining wall for the proposed works are located at least 7 m clear distance to the south of the tunnel closer to the site boundary. The results of analyses carried out to assess the effects on the tunnels indicated that the imposed distortions caused by the proposed works were within tolerable limits. Monitoring was proposed to check that ground and structural movements were within the range of calculated values, and contingencies were identified in the event of agreed trigger levels being exceeded. Displacements measured during the demolition, excavation and construction phase of the project are presented. Conclusions are drawn from comparing the measured displacements with the tunnel deformation calculations.
Wireless sensor network for monitoring transport tunnels
Authors: Bennett P. J. , Kobayashi Y. , Soga K. , Wright P.
Published: June 2010

A hybrid wireless sensor network has been developed for structural monitoring of transport tunnels. The system combines the advantages of wired and wireless sensing to simplify and speed up installation. The wireless modules are based on low-cost sensors for inclination or displacement, and temperature and humidity. These are combined with a commercial radio module to eliminate the need to install cables around the tunnel. The modules report readings back to a gateway installed on the wall of the tunnel, automatically relaying the readings from other modules as required. The readings are transmitted to the surface along cables that can be quickly and easily installed in the cable trays running along the walls of the tunnel and up the closest vent shaft. From the surface the readings are sent to a server via the mobile phone network and made available in real time on a web page. The results of a trial installation on the London Underground Jubilee line are reported.
Using tunnel boring data to augment the geological model
Authors: Newman T. G. , Yuan L. F. V. , O'Keeffe L. C.
Published: June 2010

A detailed borehole investigation has recently been undertaken for an extension to the Thames Water ring main in north London. Results of this were presented in a preconstruction geological model. This formed the basis for tunnel designers to assess ground conditions prior to construction and implement mitigation design and/or contingency plans in the event of adverse geological conditions being encountered. Previous sections of the ring main were constructed using open-faced tunnelling techniques. These allowed for inspection and continuous record of ground conditions at the tunnel face, enabling an identification of the geology and prediction of potentially adverse ground ahead. In facilitating such close geological supervision, tunnelling benefited from significant programme savings – in particular, a reduction of risk to the health and safety of underground personnel. In constructing the tunnel extension, a closed-face tunnel boring machine was opted for; this largely concealed the exposure of geology in situ during the excavation cycle. Apart from a limited number of tunnel face inspections, an indication of the geology was formed from observation and logging the spoil arising from the tunnelling machine, aided by an assessment of the performance of the machine itself in response to changes in geology over the alignment. These activities were necessary in validating the preconstruction geological model and in providing assurances to the on-site design and construction teams.
Low-volume-loss tunnelling for London ring main extension
Authors: Jones B. D.
Published: June 2010

The Thames Water ring main extension is a 4·5 km long tunnel from Stoke Newington, in the London borough of Hackney, to New River Head in Finsbury, in the London borough of Islington. The 2·85 m i.d. tunnel was excavated by an earth pressure balance tunnel-boring machine (TBM) at depths between 40 and 60 m below the surface. Surface settlements along the route were measured by precise levelling, and were found to be small. It was therefore even more important to measure these settlements as accurately as possible, in order to provide informed estimates of subsurface movements induced in third-party underground structures much closer to the tunnel horizon. Because of the relatively large magnitude of the background movements measured, when compared with the small tunnel-induced settlements, it was necessary to adopt a rigorous statistical method to fit a Gaussian curve to the data. This exploited the analogy of the ‘error function' to define the Gaussian curve parameters i and Vl. In all, 13 tunnels were underpassed successfully by the TBM, all within the ‘conservative expected value' predictions, and without incident. The predictions and structural monitoring schemes undertaken for the High Speed 1 tunnels near Corsica Street and the Northern line tunnels near Angel station are described in the paper. It was found that the surface and subsurface trough width parameter K did not vary with depth as predicted: therefore a new relationship is proposed.
Investigation of Mixing in Field-Scale Miscible Displacements Using Particle-Tracking Simulations of Tracer Floods With Flow Reversal
Authors: John Abraham K. , Lake Larry W. , Bryant Steven L. , Jennings James W.
Published: June 2010

Dispersivity data compiled over many lengths show that values at typical interwell distances are approximately two to four factors of 10 larger than those measured on cores. Such large dispersivities may represent significant mixing in the reservoir, or they may be a result of convective spreading driven by permeability heterogeneity. The work in this paper uses the idea of flow reversal to resolve the ambiguity between convective spreading and mixing. We simulate flow-reversal tests for tracer transport in several permeability realizations using particle-tracking simulations (free from numerical dispersion) on 3D, high-resolution models at the field scale.

We show that convective spreading, even without local mixing, can result in dispersion-like mixing-zone growth with large disper- sivities because of permeability heterogeneity. But, for such cases, the dispersivity estimated on flow reversal is zero. With local mixing (diffusion or core-scale dispersion), the dispersivity value on flow reversal is nonzero and much larger than typical core values. Layering in permeability, while increasing the convective contribution to transport, also enhances mixing by providing larger area in the transverse direction for diffusion to act. This suggests that in-situ mixing is an important phenomenon affecting the transport of solutes in permeable media even at large scales. Dispersivity values increase with scale mainly because of the increase in the correlation in the permeability field, but they could also apparently appear to do so because the Fickian model fails to capture the mixing-zone growth correctly at early times.

The results and approach shown here could be used to differentiate between displacement and sweep efficiency in field-scale displacements, to ensure accurate representation of dispersive mixing in reservoir simulation, and to guide upscaling workflows. The flow-reversal concept motivates a new line of inquiry for laboratory- and field-scale experiments.
Nexus Work: Brokerage on Creative Projects
Authors: Lingo Elizabeth Long , O'Mahony Siobhán
Published: June 2010

This study examined how brokers on creative projects integrate the ideas of others. We use the term “nexus work” to refer to brokerage requiring synthesis or integration, rather than just communication or transference of ideas. With an ethnographic investigation of 23 independent music producers in the Nashville country music industry, we examined how producers in the brokerage role fostered the integration of others' contributions throughout four phases of the creative process. We discovered that ambiguity was an inherent part of the collective creative process and identified three types: (1) an ambiguous quality metric (What makes a hit or constitutes success?); (2) ambiguous occupational jurisdictions (Whose claim of expertise entitles them to control the process?); and (3) an ambiguous transformation process (How should the work be done?). We show when each type of ambiguity became acute in the creative process and identify the practices producers used to leverage their brokerage role depending on the type of ambiguity confronted. In doing so, producers moved between two ideal conceptions of brokerage—as strategic actors extracting advantage from their position and as relational experts connecting others to foster creativity and innovation—to foster a collective creative outcome.
The Meaningful Activity Participation Assessment: A Measure of Engagement in Personally Valued Activities
Authors: Eakman Aaron M. , Carlson Mike E. , Clark Florence A.
Published: June 2010

The Meaningful Activity Participation Assessment (MAPA), a recently developed 28-item tool designed to measure the meaningfulness of activity, was tested in a sample of 154 older adults. The MAPA evidenced a sufficient level of internal consistency and test-retest reliability and correlated as theoretically predicted with the Life Satisfaction Index-Z, the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Engagement in Meaningful Activities Survey, the Purpose in Life Test, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Inventory and the Rand SF-36v2 Health Survey subscales. Zero-order correlations consistently demonstrated meaningful relationships between the MAPA and scales of psychosocial well-being and health-related quality of life. Results from multiple regression analyses further substantiated these findings, as greater meaningful activity participation was associated with better psychological well-being and health-related quality of life. The MAPA appears to be a reliable and valid measure of meaningful activity, incorporating both subjective and objective indicators of activity engagement.
Incidence and Trend of a Metabolic Syndrome Phenotype Among Tehranian Adolescents
Authors: Afkhami-Ardekani Mohammad , Zahedi-Asl Saleh , Rashidi Maryam , Atifah Mitra , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence and trend of the metabolic syndrome phenotype in adolescents from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study during 3.6 years of follow-up.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 932 adolescents, aged 10–19 years, who had complete data and returned for reassessment 3.6 years later were investigated.

RESULTS

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome at baseline and after 3.6 years was 7.4 and 6.7%, respectively, based on the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III definitions; 3.5 and 8.0%, respectively, based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definitions; 4.1 and 9.4%, respectively, based on the American Heart Association (AHA) definitions; and 13.6 and 13.4%, respectively, based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) definitions. Incidence rates were 5.2% (95% CI 3–6) based on ATP III, 6.8% (5–8) based on IDF, 8.3% (6–10) based on AHA, and 8.8% (6–10) based on NHANES definitions.

CONCLUSIONS

Incidence of metabolic syndrome is high in Tehranian adolescents.
Type 2 Diabetes and Cognitive Decline in Middle-Aged Men and Women
Authors: Nooyens Astrid C.J. , Baan Caroline A. , Spijkerman Annemieke M.W. , Verschuren W.M. Monique
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that type 2 diabetes is associated with greater decline in cognitive function in middle-aged individuals.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In the Dutch prospective Doetinchem Cohort Study, cognitive functioning was measured twice within a 5-year time interval in 2,613 men and women. Participants were aged 43–70 years at baseline (1995–2002), and no one had a history of stroke. Change in scores on global cognitive function as well as on specific cognitive function domains (memory, speed of cognitive processes, and cognitive flexibility) were compared for respondents with and without type 2 diabetes (verified by the general practitioner or random plasma glucose levels ≥11.1 mmol/l).

RESULTS

At the 5-year follow-up, the decline in global cognitive function in diabetic patients was 2.6 times greater than that in individuals without diabetes. For individuals aged ≥60 years, patients with incident and prevalent diabetes showed a 2.5 and 3.6 times greater decline, respectively, in cognitive flexibility than individuals without diabetes. For most cognitive domains, the magnitude of cognitive decline in patients with incident diabetes was intermediate between that of individuals without diabetes and that of patients with diabetes at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Middle-aged individuals with type 2 diabetes showed a greater decline in cognitive function than middle-aged individuals without diabetes.
Evolution of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Rana Jamal S. , Venkitachalam Lakshmi , Selzer Faith , Mulukutla Suresh R. , Marroquin Oscar C. , Laskey Warren K. , Holper Elizabeth M. , Srinivas Vankeepuram S. , Kip Kevin E. , Kelsey Sheryl F. , Nesto Richard W. ,   for the NHLBI-sponsored PTCA and Dynamic Registries Investigators
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association of successive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) modalities with balloon angioplasty (BA), bare-metal stent (BMS), drug-eluting stents (DES), and pharmacotherapy over the last 3 decades with outcomes among patients with diabetes in routine clinical practice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We examined outcomes in 1,846 patients with diabetes undergoing de novo PCI in the multicenter, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute–sponsored 1985–1986 Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA) Registry and 1997–2006 Dynamic Registry. Multivariable Cox regression models were used to estimate the adjusted risk of events (death/myocardial infarction [MI], repeat revascularization) over 1 year.

RESULTS

Cumulative event rates for postdischarge (31–365 days) death/MI were 8% by BA, 7% by BMS, and 7% by DES use (P = 0.76) and for repeat revascularization were 19, 13, and 9% (P < 0.001), respectively. Multivariable analysis showed a significantly lower risk of repeat revascularization with DES use when compared with the use of BA (hazard ratio [HR] 0.41 [95% CI 0.29–0.58]) and BMS (HR 0.55 [95% CI 0.39–0.76]). After further adjustment for discharge medications, the lower risk for death/MI was not statistically significant for DES when compared with BA.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with diabetes undergoing PCI, the use of DES is associated with a reduced need for repeat revascularization when compared with BA or BMS use. The associated death/MI benefit observed with the DES versus the BA group may well be due to greater use of pharmacotherapy.
Lung Function and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Fatal and Nonfatal Major Coronary Heart Disease Events: Possible Associations With Inflammation
Authors: Wannamethee S. Goya , Shaper A. Gerald , Rumley Ann , Sattar Naveed , Whincup Peter H. , Thomas Mary C. , Lowe Gordon D.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

We prospectively examined the relationship between lung function and risk of type-2 diabetes and fatal and nonfatal coronary heart disease (CHD) events and investigated the hypothesis that inflammation may underlie these associations.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A prospective study of 4,434 men aged 40–59 years with no history of cardiovascular disease (CHD or stroke) or diabetes drawn from general practices in 24 British towns and followed up for 20 years.

RESULTS

There were 680 major CHD events (276 fatal, 404 nonfatal) and 256 incident type 2 diabetes during the 20 years follow-up. Forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) but not FEV1-to-FVC ratio were significantly and inversely associated with incident type 2 diabetes and fatal CHD events (not nonfatal events) after adjustment for age, potential confounders, and metabolic risk factors. The adjusted relative risk (RR) for type 2 diabetes (Quartile 1 vs. Quartile 4) were 1.59 (1.07–2.56) and 1.74 (1.16–2.61) for FVC and FEV1, respectively (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04 for trend). The corresponding RR for fatal CHD were 1.48 (1.00–2.21) and 1.81 (1.19–2.76) (P = 0.002 and P = 0.0003 for trend). Lung function was significantly and inversely associated with C-reactive protein and interleukin-6; the inverse associations with type 2 diabetes for FVC and FEV1 were attenuated after further adjustment for these factors (P = 0.14 and P = 0.11 for trend) but remained significant for fatal CHD (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Restrictive rather than obstructive impairment of lung function is associated with incident type 2 diabetes (and fatal CHD) with both associations partially explained by traditional and metabolic risk factors and inflammation.
The Presence of GAD and IA-2 Antibodies in Youth With a Type 2 Diabetes Phenotype
Authors: Klingensmith Georgeanna J. , Pyle Laura , Arslanian Silva , Copeland Kenneth C. , Cuttler Leona , Kaufman Francine , Laffel Lori , Marcovina Santica , Tollefsen Sherida E. , Weinstock Ruth S. , Linder Barbara ,   for the TODAY Study Group
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency of islet cell autoimmunity in youth clinically diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and describe associated clinical and laboratory findings.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Children (10–17 years) diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were screened for participation in the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY) study. Measurements included GAD-65 and insulinoma-associated protein 2 autoantibodies using the new National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases/National Institutes of Health (NIDDK/NIH) standardized assays, a physical examination, and fasting lipid, C-peptide, and A1C determinations.

RESULTS

Of the 1,206 subjects screened and considered clinically to have type 2 diabetes, 118 (9.8%) were antibody positive; of these, 71 (5.9%) were positive for a single antibody, and 47 were positive (3.9%) for both antibodies. Diabetes autoantibody (DAA) positivity was significantly associated with race (P < 0.0001), with positive subjects more likely to be white (40.7 vs. 19%) (P < 0.0001) and male (51.7 vs. 35.7%) (P = 0.0007). BMI, BMI z score, C-peptide, A1C, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and blood pressure were significantly different by antibody status. The antibody-positive subjects were less likely to display characteristics clinically associated with type 2 diabetes and a metabolic syndrome phenotype, although the range for BMI z score, blood pressure, fasting C-peptide, and serum lipids overlapped between antibody-positive and antibody-negative subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Obese youth with a clinical diagnosis of type 2 diabetes may have evidence of islet autoimmunity contributing to insulin deficiency. As a group, patients with DAA have clinical characteristics significantly different from those without DAA. However, without islet autoantibody analysis, these characteristics cannot reliably distinguish between obese young individuals with type 2 diabetes and those with autoimmune diabetes.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor and Clinical Diabetes in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Rajpathak Swapnil N. , Wassertheil-Smoller Sylvia , Crandall Jill , Liu Simin , Ho Gloria Y.F.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between circulating levels of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a mesenchymal-derived pleiotrophic factor that is elevated in obesity, and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis among 892 postmenopausal women within the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study (WHI-OS).

RESULTS

HGF levels positively correlated with BMI and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance. In the multivariable analysis comparing the highest tertile with the lowest tertile of HGF, the odds ratio for prevalent diabetes was 2.47 (95% CI [1.12–5.47], P for trend = 0.014) after accounting for age, race, BMI, and other risk factors for diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

HGF levels are associated with the presence of type 2 diabetes in postmenopausal women. Future studies should consider the prospective evaluation of the association of HGF with the development of type 2 diabetes.
Evaluation of Distribution Network Customer Outage Costs
Authors: Zemīte Laila , Gerhards Jānis
Published: June 2010

Evaluation of Distribution Network Customer Outage Costs

Customer outage cost criteria are considered, collected and analyzed outage costs in Latvia distribution network, as well as distribution network outage elimination structure, the most common outage causes, are proposed outage costs estimation model. Finally the discussion of results of expected customer outage costs and interrupted energy assessment rate calculation results in Latvia distribution network in 2007 are presented, based on customers' mean value of incomes, outcomes and profitability.
Single Phase Earth Fault Location in the Medium Voltage Distribution Networks
Authors: Linčiks Jevgēnijs , Baranovskis Dzintars
Published: June 2010

Single Phase Earth Fault Location in the Medium Voltage Distribution Networks

This paper gives a description of the single phase earth fault location methods in the medium voltage networks. The single phase earth fault location in the medium voltage distribution networks is problematic now. The technical devices which are using in Latvia now do not allow to detect the single phase earth faults fast and high accuracy. Fast earth fault location should be possible by using the equipments which are calculating distance to earth faults. But precisely calculate the distance to the single phase earth faults in the medium voltage networks is very difficult. The paper presents the single earth fault location methods including the calculation methods for fault distance.
Selection of schemes of switchgears for new 110 kV substations
Authors: Ļvovs Aleksandrs , Staltmanis Armands
Published: June 2010

Selection of schemes of switchgears for new 110 kV substations

Rapid growth of Latvian economy before crisis resulted in rapid growth of electricity demand and reliability requirements are also increased. It's well known that object's influence on reliability of power supply increases growing nearer to power producing centre. This article gives analysis of reliability of switchgears for 110kV substations.