bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the consequences associated with diffuse vascular disease history in patients diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease: estimates from Saskatchewan health data
Authors: Migliaccio-Walle Kristen , Stokes Michael , Proskorovsky Irina , Popovici-Toma Dan , El-Hadi Wissam
Published: September 2010

Background

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is caused by narrowing of the arteries in the lower extremities. Limited data exist concerning the impact of diffuse vascular disease (DVD) on prognosis and costs. Thus, the objective of this study is to estimate the impact of DVD on morbidity, mortality and costs.

Methods

PAD was identified between 1985 and 1995 and classified by extent of DVD at diagnosis: none (PAD only, reference group), prior myocardial infarction (MI), prior stroke, prior MI and stroke (MI + stroke), prior transient ischemic attack (TIA). Deaths and hospitalizations were identified through December 2000. Hospitalization costs were estimated from the Ontario Case Cost Project, reported in 2002 $CAD. Proportional hazards analyses measured the impact of vascular involvement on mortality while controlling for risk factors (e.g., age, cardiovascular history).

Results

Overall, 16,439 patients with PAD were included; 14.8% had a prior MI, 10.2% a prior stroke, 2.6% prior MI + stroke, 6.4% prior TIA, two-thirds had PAD only. Median survival was shorter for patients with prior MI (9.3 yrs), TIA (6.3), stroke (4.7), and MI+stroke (4.1) versus the reference group (9.9, p < 0.05, all comparisons). Analyses revealed that the death risk was 60% higher in patients with prior stroke and 84% higher for MI + stroke. Atherothrombotic and bleeding event-related costs were $712, $337, $268, and $170 higher per patient/year of follow-up in patients with a history of MI+stroke, MI, stroke, and TIA, respectively.

Conclusion

Patients diagnosed with PAD with DVD have higher risk of poor outcomes and increased costs.
Intracellular molecular effects of insulin resistance in patients with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Pasini Evasio , Flati Vincenzo , Paiardi Silvia , Rizzoni Damiano , Porteri Enzo , Aquilani Roberto , Assanelli Deodato , Corsetti Giovanni , Speca Silvia , Rezzani Rita , De Ciuceis Carolina , Agabiti-Rosei Enrico
Published: September 2010

Aim of the study

Patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS) have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Data obtained from muscle biopsies have demonstrated altered insulin signaling (IS) in patients with MetS. The IS regulates critical cell functions including molecular-regulated cellular metabolite fluxes, protein and energetic metabolism, cell proliferation and apoptosis with consequent regulation of cell life including endothelial homeostasis and blood coagulation. However, little is known about blood cell IS in MetS patients. The aim of this study was to develop a method to evaluate IS in peripheral lymphocytes to identify altered intracellular molecules in patients with MetS to use as risk biomarkers of vascular thrombosis.

Patients and Methods

We investigated 40 patients with MetS and 20 controls. MetS was defined according to guidelines from the US National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. Blood samples were taken from all participants. Total mononuclear cells were isolated from peripheral blood using density gradient centrifugation. IS molecules were evaluated using Western blot analysis followed by computer-assisted densitometer evaluation.

Results

Lymphocytes of MetS patients showed a reduced mTOR expression (the mammalian target of rapamycin) which is a fundamental molecule of IS. Major impairment of IS was confirmed by reduced upstream and downstream mTOR molecules which regulate fundamental cells metabolic functions.

Conclusions

In patients with MetS, we found a reduction of mTOR and other mTOR-related molecules involved in insulin resistance, cell repair, coagulation and vasculogenesis. A reduced expression of mTOR may reflect an increased risk of vascular thrombosis.
Uniform comparison of several drugs which provide protection from noise induced hearing loss
Authors: Tamir Sharon , Adelman Cahtia , Weinberger Jeffrey M , Sohmer Haim
Published: September 2010

Background

The ability of drugs to reduce noise induced hearing loss (NIHL) has been evaluated in diverse experimental conditions (animal species, noise intensities, durations, assessment techniques, etc), making it difficult to assess their relative efficacy. The present study was designed to provide more uniform comparisons and to allow to a better understanding of the mechanism of the NIHL. Methods: The drugs studied included furosemide (loop diuretic) and the antioxidants N Acetyl-L-Cysteine, vitamins A, C, E with the vasodilator magnesium. Mice were exposed to a continuous broadband noise (113 dB SPL for 3.5 hours) and the NIHL was assessed in all animals before noise exposure and 1 week after with auditory nerve brainstem evoked responses (ABR) to broadband clicks and to 8 kHz tone bursts.

Results

Each of the drugs alone and in combination led to similar reductions in NIHL.

Conclusions

The loop diuretic furosemide, by reducing the magnitude of the endocochlear potential in scala media, probably depressed active vibrations of the outer hair cells and basilar membrane, resulting in reduction of free radical formation during the noise exposure. The antioxidants N Acetyl-L-Cysteine and vitamins A, C, E with the vasodilator magnesium presumably counteract the free radicals. Thus, the administration of the antioxidants to animals in which free radical formation had already been reduced by previous injection of furosemide did not have an additional protective effect on the NIHL.
Accurate, rapid and high-throughput detection of strain-specific polymorphisms in Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis by next-generation sequencing
Authors: Cummings Craig A , Bormann Chung Christina A , Fang Rixun , Barker Melissa , Brzoska Pius , Williamson Phillip C , Beaudry Jodi , Matthews Molly , Schupp James , Wagner David M , Birdsell Dawn , Vogler Amy J , Furtado Manohar R , Keim Paul , Budowle Bruce
Published: September 2010

Background

In the event of biocrimes or infectious disease outbreaks, high-resolution genetic characterization for identifying the agent and attributing it to a specific source can be crucial for an effective response. Until recently, in-depth genetic characterization required expensive and time-consuming Sanger sequencing of a few strains, followed by genotyping of a small number of marker loci in a panel of isolates at or by gel-based approaches such as pulsed field gel electrophoresis, which by necessity ignores most of the genome. Next-generation, massively parallel sequencing (MPS) technology (specifically the Applied Biosystems sequencing by oligonucleotide ligation and detection (SOLiD™) system) is a powerful investigative tool for rapid, cost-effective and parallel microbial whole-genome characterization.

Results

To demonstrate the utility of MPS for whole-genome typing of monomorphic pathogens, four Bacillus anthracis and four Yersinia pestis strains were sequenced in parallel. Reads were aligned to complete reference genomes, and genomic variations were identified. Resequencing of the B. anthracis Ames ancestor strain detected no false-positive single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and mapping of reads to the Sterne strain correctly identified 98% of the 133 SNPs that are not clustered or associated with repeats. Three geographically distinct B. anthracis strains from the A branch lineage were found to have between 352 and 471 SNPs each, relative to the Ames genome, and one strain harbored a genomic amplification. Sequencing of four Y. pestis strains from the Orientalis lineage identified between 20 and 54 SNPs per strain relative to the CO92 genome, with the single Bolivian isolate having approximately twice as many SNPs as the three more closely related North American strains. Coverage plotting also revealed a common deletion in two strains and an amplification in the Bolivian strain that appear to be due to insertion element-mediated recombination events. Most private SNPs (that is, a, variant found in only one strain in this set) selected for validation by Sanger sequencing were confirmed, although rare false-positive SNPs were associated with variable nucleotide tandem repeats.

Conclusions

The high-throughput, multiplexing capability, and accuracy of this system make it suitable for rapid whole-genome typing of microbial pathogens during a forensic or epidemiological investigation. By interrogating nearly every base of the genome, rare polymorphisms can be reliably discovered, thus facilitating high-resolution strain tracking and strengthening forensic attribution.
A Transformative Model for Undergraduate Quantitative Biology Education
Authors: Usher David C. , Driscoll Tobin A. , Dhurjati Prasad , Pelesko John A. , Rossi Louis F. , Schleiniger Gilberto , Pusecker Kathleen , White Harold B.
Published: September 2010

The BIO2010 report recommended that students in the life sciences receive a more rigorous education in mathematics and physical sciences. The University of Delaware approached this problem by (1) developing a bio-calculus section of a standard calculus course, (2) embedding quantitative activities into existing biology courses, and (3) creating a new interdisciplinary major, quantitative biology, designed for students interested in solving complex biological problems using advanced mathematical approaches. To develop the bio-calculus sections, the Department of Mathematical Sciences revised its three-semester calculus sequence to include differential equations in the first semester and, rather than using examples traditionally drawn from application domains that are most relevant to engineers, drew models and examples heavily from the life sciences. The curriculum of the B.S. degree in Quantitative Biology was designed to provide students with a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, with an emphasis on preparation for research careers in life sciences. Students in the program take core courses from biology, chemistry, and physics, though mathematics, as the cornerstone of all quantitative sciences, is given particular prominence. Seminars and a capstone course stress how the interplay of mathematics and biology can be used to explain complex biological systems. To initiate these academic changes required the identification of barriers and the implementation of solutions.
Evaluating a Modeling Curriculum by Using Heuristics for Productive Disciplinary Engagement
Authors: Svoboda Julia , Passmore Cynthia
Published: September 2010

The BIO2010 report provided a compelling argument for the need to create learning experiences for undergraduate biology students that are more authentic to modern science. The report acknowledged the need for research that could help practitioners successfully create and reform biology curricula with this goal in mind. Our objective in this article was to explore how a set of six design heuristics could be used to evaluate the potential of curricula to support productive learning experiences for science students. We drew on data collected during a long-term study of an undergraduate traineeship that introduced students to mathematical modeling in the context of modern biological problems. We present illustrative examples from this curriculum that highlight the ways in which three heuristics—instructor role-modeling, holding students to scientific norms, and providing students with opportunities to practice these norms—consistently supported learning across the curriculum. We present a more detailed comparison of two different curricular modules and explain how differences in student authority, problem structure, and access to resources contributed to differences in productive engagement by students in these modules. We hope that our analysis will help practitioners think in more concrete terms about how to achieve the goals set forth by BIO2010.
An Initiative to Broaden Diversity in Undergraduate Biomathematics Training
Authors: Goins Gregory , Chen Mingxiang , White Catherine , Clemence Dominic , Redd Thomas , Kelkar Vinaya
Published: September 2010

At North Carolina A&T State University (NCATSU), there was a critical need to better coordinate genuine research and classroom experiences for undergraduates early in their academic career. We describe the development and implementation of a faculty alliance across academic departments to increase biomathematics research opportunities for underrepresented minorities. Our faculty alliance is called the Integrative Biomathematical Learning and Empowerment Network for Diversity (iBLEND). The fundamental purpose of the iBLEND alliance was to inspire underrepresented minorities to pursue research careers by increasing the visibility of research conducted at the interface of mathematics and biology at NCATSU. Because of the many positive impacts, iBLEND gained significant buy-in from administration, faculty, and students by 1) working from the ground up with administration to promote campus-wide biomathematics research and training, 2) fostering associations between research and regular undergraduate academic courses, 3) creating and disseminating biomathematics teaching and learning modules, and 4) enhancing learning community support at the interface of mathematics and biology. Currently, iBLEND is viewed as a productive site for graduate schools to recruit underrepresented minority students having specific competencies related to mathematical biology.
Toward Integration: From Quantitative Biology to Mathbio-Biomath?
Authors: Marsteller Pat , de Pillis Lisette , Findley Ann , Joplin Karl , Pelesko John , Nelson Karen , Thompson Katerina , Usher David , Watkins Joseph
Published: September 2010

In response to the call of BIO2010 for integrating quantitative skills into undergraduate biology education, 30 Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Program Directors at the 2006 HHMI Program Directors Meeting established a consortium to investigate, implement, develop, and disseminate best practices resulting from the integration of math and biology. With the assistance of an HHMI-funded mini-grant, led by Karl Joplin of East Tennessee State University, and support in institutional HHMI grants at Emory and University of Delaware, these institutions held a series of summer institutes and workshops to document progress toward and address the challenges of implementing a more quantitative approach to undergraduate biology education. This report summarizes the results of the four summer institutes (2007–2010). The group developed four draft white papers, a wiki site, and a listserv. One major outcome of these meetings is this issue of CBE—Life Sciences Education, which resulted from proposals at our 2008 meeting and a January 2009 planning session. Many of the papers in this issue emerged from or were influenced by these meetings.
SYMBIOSIS: Development, Implementation, and Assessment of a Model Curriculum across Biology and Mathematics at the Introductory Level
Authors: Depelteau Audrey M. , Joplin Karl H. , Govett Aimee , Miller Hugh A. , Seier Edith
Published: September 2010

“It takes a lot of courage to release the familiar and seemingly secure, to embrace the new. But there is no real security in what is no longer meaningful. There is more security in the adventurous and exciting, for in movement there is life, and in change there is power.” Alan Cohen (Used by permission. All rights reserved. For more information on Alan Cohen's books and programs, see ( www.alancohen.com .)

With the support of the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) administration and a grant from Howard Hughes Medical Institute, the departments of Biological Sciences, Mathematics and Statistics, and Curriculum and Instruction have developed a biology–math integrated curriculum. An interdisciplinary faculty team, charged with teaching the 18 curriculum modules, designed this three-semester curriculum, known as SYMBIOSIS. This curriculum was piloted to two student cohorts during the developmental stage. The positive feedback and assessment results of this project have given us the foundation to implement the SYMBIOSIS curriculum as a replacement for the standard biology majors curriculum at the introductory level. This article addresses the history and development of the curriculum, previous assessment results and current assessment protocol, and the future of ETSU's approach to implementing the SYMBIOSIS curriculum.
TRAIL-expressing CD8+ T cells mediate tolerance following soluble peptide-induced peripheral T cell deletion
Authors: Gurung Prajwal , Kucaba Tamara A , Schoenberger Stephen P , Ferguson Thomas A , Griffith Thomas S
Published: September 2010

Mechanism behind transient peripheral tolerance induced after T cell deletion is identified as dependent on the cytotoxic activity of TRAIL-expressing CD8+ Treg.

Peripheral tolerance controls the action of self-reactive T cells that escape thymic deletion. We showed previously that deletion of Ag-specific CD4+ T cells induced a CD8+ Treg population that maintained tolerance by deleting T cells with the same Ag specificity. The present study explored the mechanism of action of these CD8+ Treg. Following OT-II T cell deletion by soluble OVA323–339, B6 mice were unresponsive to challenge after CFA/OVA immunization, and Trail−/− or Dr5−/− mice were immune, although all strains displayed similar OT-II peripheral deletion. Interestingly, B6 mice remained tolerant to OVA even after a second infusion of OT-II T cells. Tolerance could be transferred to naïve recipients using CD8+ T cells from B6 or Dr5−/− mice that experienced peptide-induced peripheral OT-II deletion but not from Trail−/− mice. Subsequent investigation found that the mechanism of action of the CD8+ Treg was TRAIL-mediated OT-II T cell deletion in a TCR-specific manner. Furthermore, the tolerance was transient, as it was established by 14 days after peptide injection but lost by Day 56. Together, these data provide evidence to suggest that the mechanism behind transient peripheral tolerance induced following T cell deletion is the cytotoxic activity of TRAIL-expressing CD8+ Treg.
Estrogen Receptor-β Prevents Cardiac Fibrosis
Authors: Pedram Ali , Razandi Mahnaz , O'Mahony Fiona , Lubahn Dennis , Levin Ellis R.
Published: September 2010

Development of cardiac fibrosis portends the transition and deterioration from hypertrophy to dilation and heart failure. Here we examined how estrogen blocks this important development. Angiotensin II (AngII) and endothelin-1 induce cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in humans. and we find that these agents directly stimulate the transition of the cardiac fibroblast to a myofibroblast. AngII and endothelin-1 stimulated TGFβ1 synthesis in the fibroblast, an inducer of fibrosis that signaled via c-jun kinase to Sma- and Mad-related protein 3 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation in myofibroblasts. As a result, mesenchymal proteins fibronectin and vimentin were produced, as were collagens I and III, the major forms found in fibrotic hearts. 17β-Estradiol (E2) or dipropylnitrile, an estrogen receptor (ER)β agonist, comparably blocked all these events, reversed by estrogen receptor (ER)β small interfering RNA. E2 and dipropylnitrile signaling through cAMP and protein kinase A prevented myofibroblast formation and blocked activation of c-jun kinase and important events of fibrosis. In the hearts of ovariectomized female mice, cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis were induced by AngII infusion and prevented by E2 administration to wild type but not ERβ knockout rodents. Our results establish the cardiac fibroblast as an important target for hypertrophic/fibrosis-inducing peptides the actions of which were mitigated by E2/ERβ acting in these stromal cells.
Introduction: Vanishing into Things
Authors: Allen Barry , Faure Bernard , Raz Jacob , Magee Glenn Alexander , Verbin N. , Ofer Dalia , Pryce Elaine , King Amy M.
Published: September 2010

Introducing the sixth and final installment of the Common Knowledge symposium “Apology for Quietism,” Allen looks at the symposium retrospectively and concludes that it has mainly concerned “sage knowledge,” defined as foresight into the development of situations. The sagacious knower sees the disposition of things in an early, incipient form and knows how to intervene with nearly effortless and undetectable (quiet) effectiveness. Whatever the circumstance, the sage handles it with finesse, never doing too much but also never leaving anything undone that must be accomplished. Quiet, when it is knowingly and effectively quiet (not pusillanimous or poor in spirit), is about what not to do, how not to approach a problem, what not to decide, what is not known, what will not work. Allen explains these principles in terms of traditional Chinese thought, Daoist and Confucian: wei we wei, or “doing-not-doing,” means effective inaction. What makes such wisdom possible is not mystical insight, he argues, but discipline in a certain kind of art. The sage has no need of reasons (let alone doctrines), only effectiveness; and he does not need truth or justice, only subtlety. The detachment of a quietist has little, if anything, to do with transcending perspectives. Detachment is good as a means to flexibility, and instead of transcending perspectives, a sage is skilled in the quiet art of never getting stuck in one. To be effectively quiet is not so much to be silent as to be inaudible, invisible; the sage “vanishes into things.”
In the Quiet of the Monastery
Authors: Faure Bernard
Published: September 2010

A contribution to the sixth installment of the Common Knowledge symposium “Apology for Quietism,” this article addresses a) the extent to which the familiar term “Buddhist quietism” is legitimate, b) the use of the term by Jesuit missionaries in Asia at the time that Catholic quietism was briefly flourishing in Europe, and c) the use of the term in the European philosophical controversy over Spinozism. Faure argues that, in most cases, the European critique of Buddhism was aimed at European enemies. Chan Buddhism in China and Zen in Japan came to be associated with nihilism as well as quietism, and the association proved resilient down into the twentieth century, but the Jesuit critique has a peculiar provenance. The Jesuits in China borrowed arguments against Buddhism from neo-Confucianist allies, yet the Confucian critique of Buddhism was itself indebted to arguments that had been directed by Buddhist schools against one another. Certain Chan schools had accused other Chan schools of quietism and nihilism, and Western scholars even in the later twentieth century have taken sides in these disputes as well. However, Faure argues, the “no-thought” of Chan is not the “blank slate” of Christian quietism, on which God engraves his will and blessings. Nor does Buddhist quietism lead to the extasis of mystical union. Moreover, Buddhism was perceived by East Asian rulers mainly as an ideological weapon and only secondarily as a soteriological doctrine. Indeed “warrior monks” in Japan formed bands that attacked all who threatened their interests, and the country could not be unified under Tokugawa rule until this activist Buddhism was quelled. The article concludes with an expression of admiration for quietism and a wish that there might be more of it in Buddhism now.
Low Reynolds Number Vertical Axis Wind Turbine for Mars
Authors: Kumar Vimal , Paraschivoiu Marius , Paraschivoiu Ion
Published: September 2010

A low Reynolds number wind turbine is designed to extract the power from wind energy on Mars. As compared to solar cells, wind turbine systems have an advantage on Mars, as they can continuously produce power during dust storms and at night. The present work specifically addresses the design of a 500 W Darrieus-type straight-bladed vertical-axis wind turbine (S-VAWT) considering the atmospheric conditions on Mars. The thin atmosphere and wind speed on Mars result in low Reynolds numbers (2000–80000) representing either laminar or transitional flow over airfoils, and influences the aerodynamic loads and performance of the airfoils. Therefore a transitional model is used to predict the lift and drag coefficients for transitional flows over airfoils. The transitional models used in the present work combine existing methods for predicting the onset and extent of transition, which are compatible with the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model. The model is first validated with the experimental predictions reported in the literature for an NACA 0018 airfoil. The wind turbine is designed and optimized by iteratively stepping through the following tasks: rotor height, rotor diameter, chord length, and aerodynamic loads. The CARDAAV code, based on the “Double-Multiple Streamtube” model, is used to determine the performances and optimize the various parameters of the straight-bladed vertical-axis wind turbine.
Enhanced Fault Ride-through Scheme for Mitigating Rotor Speed Instability of Doubly Fed Induction Generator Based Wind Farms
Authors: Vinothkumar K , Selvan M P
Published: September 2010

This paper analyzes and proposes a novel scheme with suitable control strategy to increase the probability of successful fault ride-through (FRT) as well as to enhance the rotor speed stability of doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) based wind farms. The proposed FRT scheme consists of an uncontrolled rectifier, two sets of IGBT switches, a diode and an inductor connected between the rotor circuit and dc link capacitor, in parallel with the rotor side converter of DFIG. In the proposed scheme, during a fault event, the input mechanical energy of the wind turbine is stored as electromagnetic energy in the inductor. Consequently, torque balance between the electrical and mechanical quantities is maintained and the rotor speed deviation is thereby reduced. This results in reduced reactive power requirement and rapid reestablishment of terminal voltage on fault clearance. Moreover, the stored electromagnetic energy in the inductor is transferred into the dc link capacitor on fault clearance; thereby relieving the grid side converter from charging the dc link capacitor. The proposed FRT scheme is validated through an extensive time domain simulation study employing PSCAD/EMTDC software. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed FRT scheme in achieving successful fault ride-through and rotor speed stability of DFIG based wind farms.
Critique of Drought Models in the Australian Drought Exceptional Circumstances Report (DECR)
Authors: Stockwell David R.B.
Published: September 2010

This paper1 evaluates the reliability of modeling in the Drought Exceptional Circumstances Report (DECR) where global circulation (or climate) simulations were used to forecast future extremes of temperatures, rainfall and soil moisture. The DECR provided the Australian government with an assessment of the likely future change in the extent and frequency of drought resulting from anthropogenic global warming. Three specific and different statistical techniques show that the simulation of the occurrence of extreme high temperatures last century was adequate, but the simulation of the occurrence of extreme low rainfall was unacceptably poor. In particular, the simulations indicate that the measure of hydrological drought increased significantly last century, while the observations indicate a significant decrease. The main conclusion and purpose of the paper is to provide a case study showing the need for more rigorous and explicit validation of climate models if they are to advise government policy.
A Handbook on the Management of Acoustic Issues during the Building Process
Authors: Hagberg Klas G. , Simmons Christian
Published: September 2010

A new handbook has been published by the Swedish National Board of Housing, Building and Planning. This handbook describes the building process from an acoustical point of view. It focuses on the conversion of functional requirements on the performance of the building to appropriate designs of a building. This type of requirement allows all kinds of solutions to be applied, but is also requires coordination of acoustic issues between the parties involved during the entire building process. Hence, the handbook addresses detailed information to each party. Functional requirements and acoustic issues are complex by nature, because they affect many building elements, they are handled by several parties and they must be considered during several phases of the building process. Typical errors come from building designs (floor plans), product designs (input data of elements), calculation models, quality of workmanship (during the construction phase) and uncertainties in field measurements. The aim is to help the commissioner manage the responsibility for these issues. The handbook also covers a large field of practical applications to support the acoustic expertise. It is expected that this handbook will encourage developers and contractors to deal with acoustic issues more efficiently. If the noise environment is not considered in the design process for new residential areas and other building facilities, the satisfaction of tenants, the health costs for the society and the building values will be affected. If verifications are made only at a late stage of the building process, errors are normally discovered too late. They are then expensive to correct for and it is difficult to find out who is responsible. When the verifications are made effectively during the process, costs are minimized.
External and Internal Noise in School Classrooms in Tropical Climates
Authors: Mohan G. Muthu Shoba , Rajagopal K.
Published: September 2010

The paper presents the evaluation of classrooms for young children in India, to assess their acoustical environments. The schools under consideration are located in an educationally advanced locality in India – a district in the southern part of India, namely Kanyakumari. Situated in a tropical climate, the classrooms have open windows and doors with the possibility of noise intrusion from outside. Schools are located in different regions to suit the conditions of education administrators and other factors, and not necessarily the best location for a learning environment. In this study, depending on the location of the schools and their external surroundings, the schools are classified into three categories: a) schools located near roads with heavy traffic (Noisy-sites), b) schools located within Housing sites, c) schools located in zones far from public roads and away from residences (Quiet sites). External and internal noise surveys have been conducted to evaluate the background noise within the classrooms. About 120 classrooms in 25 schools were selected for the study of the acoustic quality within the classrooms, based on measurements. The external noise has a very great influence on the background noise in empty classrooms with open windows. It may not be practicable for schools in tropical climates, where rooms with open windows and doors are realities, to conform to the guidelines of standards such as ANSI S12.60 or BB 93.
Data Acquisition and Complex Systems Analysis in Critical Care: Developing the Intensive Care Unit of the Future
Authors: Jacono Frank J. , De Georgia Michael A. , Wilson Christopher G. , Dick Thomas E. , Loparo Kenneth A.
Published: September 2010

Modern hospitals are equipped with sophisticated monitoring equipment that displays enormous volumes of raw data about the cardiopulmonary and neural functions of patients. The latest generation of bedside monitors attempts to present these data to the clinician in an integrated fashion to better represent the overall physiological condition of the patient. However, none of these systems are capable of extracting potentially important indices of pattern variability inherent within biological signals. This review has three main objectives. (1) To summarize the current state of data acquisition in the intensive care unit and identify limitations that must be overcome to achieve the goal of real‐time processing of biological signals to capture subtleties identifying “early warning signals” hidden in physiologic patterns that may reflect current severity of the disease process and, more importantly, predict the likelihood of adverse progression and death or improvement and resolution. (2) To outline our approach to analyzing biological waveform data based on work in animal models of human disease. (3) To propose guidelines for the development, testing and implementation of integrated software and hardware solutions that will facilitate the novel application of complex systems approaches to biological waveform data with the goal of risk assessment.
Graph Analysis and Visualization for Brain Function Characterization Using EEG Data
Authors: Sakkalis Vangelis , Tsiaras Vasilis , Tollis Ioannis G.
Published: September 2010

Over the past few years, there has been an increased interest in studying the underlying neural mechanism of cognitive brain activity as well as in diagnosing certain pathologies. Noninvasive imaging modalities such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and dynamic signal acquisition techniques such as quantitative electroencephalography (EEG) have been vastly used to estimate cortical connectivity and identify functional interdependencies among synchronized brain lobes. In this area, graph‐theoretic concepts and tools are used to describe large scale brain networks while performing cognitive tasks or to characterize certain neuropathologies. Such tools can be of particular value in basic neuroscience and can be potential candidates for future inclusion in a clinical setting. This paper discusses the application of the high time resolution EEG to resolve interdependence patterns using both linear and nonlinear techniques. The network formed by the statistical dependencies between the activations of distinct and often well separated neuronal populations is further analyzed using a number of graph theoretic measures capable of capturing and quantifying its structure and summarizing the information that it contains. Finally, graph visualization reveals the hidden structure of the networks and amplifies human understanding. A number of possible applications of the graph theoretic approach are also listed. A freely available standalone brain visualization tool to benefit the healthcare engineering community is also provided (http://www.ics.forth.gr/bmi/tools.html).
Rotigotine: Restless Legs Syndrome
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: September 2010

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@kumc.edu .
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; Significant Labeling Changes or “Dear Health Professional” Letters Related to Safety
Authors: Baker Danial E.
Published: September 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 .
Striving for Diligence in the Quest for the Computerized Provider Order Entry Meaningful Use Requirement
Authors: Fox Brent I. , Felkey Bill G.
Published: September 2010

We continue to look at the rapidly evolving topic of the meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs). Last month, we addressed preliminary meaningful use requirements; in this column, we call for a continued, concerted effort from pharmacy personnel to ensure that the health information technologies that we implement to improve patient safety do indeed positively impact the health care provided to our patients.
Recent Publications on Medications and Pharmacy
Authors: Russett Flint
Published: September 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.
Role of Intrathecal Rituximab and Trastuzumab in the Management of Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis
Authors: Perissinotti Anthony J , Reeves David J
Published: September 2010

Objective:

To review evidence for the use of intrathecal rituximab and trastuzumab in the management of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis.

Data Sources:

A search of MEDLINE (1966–July 2010) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970–July 2010) was performed using search terms intrathecal, trastuzumab, rituximab, and monoclonal antibody. Additionally, American Society of Clinical Oncology, San Antonio Breast Conference, American Association for Cancer Research, and American Society of Hematology meeting abstracts were searched.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Publications were reviewed for inclusion. Those reporting use of rituximab and trastuzumab intrathecally are reviewed and include 1 Phase 1 trial, 2 small prospective studies, 1 case series, and 15 case reports.

Data Synthesis:

The treatment of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is challenging due to the presence of the blood–brain barrier. Numerous systemically administered therapies do not readily penetrate into the site of leptomeningeal disease and have been ineffective. Intrathecal administration of 2 monoclonal antibodies (trastuzumab and rituximab) has been investigated in case reports and case series. Additionally, intrathecal rituximab has been investigated in a Phase 1 study. Survival after intrathecal trastuzumab ranged from 39 days to greater than 72 months and the drug was well tolerated, with no adverse events attributed to it. Doses used in these reports ranged from 5 to 100 mg. Survival after intrathecal rituximab ranged from 1.1 weeks to greater than 3.5 years. In the Phase 1 trial, the maximum tolerated rituximab dose was 25 mg and 60% of patients responded. Four of the 6 responding patients experienced a complete response. Intrathecal rituximab exhibited minor toxicities that resolved quickly without long-term effects.

Conclusions:

Reports suggest that both trastuzumab and rituximab may be utilized intrathecally. Patients with refractory leptomeningeal carcinomatosis may benefit from a trial of intrathecal trastuzumab or rituximab; however, their use remains investigational, as more data and experience are necessary before intrathecal administration can be considered standard.
On the long-term visco-elastic behaviour of polyethylene glycol (PEG) impregnated archaeological oak wood
Authors: Hoffmann Per
Published: September 2010

No abstract available
Bidirectional Connectivity between Hemispheres Occurs at Multiple Levels in Language Processing But Depends on Sex
Authors: Bitan Tali , Lifshitz Adi , Breznitz Zvia , Booth James R.
Published: September 2010

Our aim was to determine the direction of interhemispheric communication in a phonological task in regions involved in different levels of processing. Effective connectivity analysis was conducted on functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 39 children (ages 9–15 years) performing rhyming judgment on spoken words. The results show interaction between hemispheres at multiple levels. First, there is unidirectional transfer of information from right to left at the sensory level of primary auditory cortex. Second, bidirectional connections between superior temporal gyri (STGs) suggest a reciprocal cooperation between hemispheres at the level of phonological and prosodic processing. Third, a direct connection from right STG to left inferior frontal gyrus suggest that information processed in the right STG is integrated into the final stages of phonological segmentation required for the rhyming decision. Intrahemispheric connectivity from primary auditory cortex to STG was stronger in the left compared to the right hemisphere. These results support a model of cooperation between hemispheres, with asymmetric interhemispheric and intrahemispheric connectivity consistent with the left hemisphere specialization for phonological processing. Finally, we found greater interhemispheric connectivity in girls compared to boys, consistent with the hypothesis of a more bilateral representation of language in females than males. However, interhemispheric communication was associated with slow performance and low verbal intelligent quotient within girls. We suggest that females may have the potential for greater interhemispheric cooperation, which may be an advantage in certain tasks. However, in other tasks too much communication between hemispheres may interfere with task performance.
Coupled Activity-Dependent Trafficking of Synaptic SK2 Channels and AMPA Receptors
Authors: Lin Mike T. , Luján Rafael , Watanabe Masahiko , Frerking Matthew , Maylie James , Adelman John P.
Published: September 2010

Small conductance Ca2+-activated K+type 2 (SK2) channels are expressed in the postsynaptic density of CA1 neurons where they are activated by synaptically evoked Ca2+influx to limit the size of EPSPs and spine Ca2+transients. At Schaffer collateral synapses, the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) increases the α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate receptor (AMPAR)-mediated contribution to synaptic transmission and decreases the synaptic SK2 channel contribution through protein kinase A-dependent channel endocytosis. Using a combination of electrophysiology and immunoelectron microscopy in mice, the relationship between the dynamics of spine SK2 channels and AMPARs was investigated. Unlike AMPARs, synaptic SK2 channels under basal conditions do not rapidly recycle. Furthermore, SK2 channels occupy a distinct population of endosomes separate from AMPARs. However, blocking vesicular exocytosis or the delivery of synaptic GluA1-containing AMPARs during the induction of LTP blocks SK2 channel endocytosis. By ∼2 h after the induction of LTP, synaptic SK2 channel expression and function are restored. Thus, LTP-dependent endocytosis of SK2 is coupled to LTP-dependent AMPA exocytosis, and the ∼2 h window after the induction of LTP during which synaptic SK2 activity is absent may be important for consolidating the later phases of LTP.
Generalization Lags behind Learning on an Auditory Perceptual Task
Authors: Wright Beverly A. , Wilson Roselyn M. , Sabin Andrew T.
Published: September 2010

The generalization of learning from trained to untrained conditions is of great potential value because it markedly increases the efficacy of practice. In principle, generalization and the learning itself could arise from either the same or distinct neural changes. Here, we assessed these two possibilities in the realm of human perceptual learning by comparing the time course of improvement on a trained condition (learning) to that on an untrained condition (generalization) for an auditory temporal-interval discrimination task. While significant improvement on the trained condition occurred within 2 d, generalization to the untrained condition lagged behind, only emerging after 4 d. The different time courses for learning and generalization suggest that these two types of perceptual improvement can arise from at least partially distinct neural changes. The notably longer time course for generalization than learning demonstrates that increasing the duration of training can be an effective means to increase the number of conditions to which learning generalizes on perceptual tasks.
Cocaine-Induced Chromatin Remodeling Increases Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Transcription in the Rat Medial Prefrontal Cortex, Which Alters the Reinforcing Efficacy of Cocaine
Authors: Sadri-Vakili Ghazaleh , Kumaresan Vidhya , Schmidt Heath D. , Famous Katie R. , Chawla Prianka , Vassoler Fair M. , Overland Ryan P. , Xia Eva , Bass Caroline E. , Terwilliger Ernest F. , Pierce R. Christopher , Cha Jang-Ho J.
Published: September 2010

Cocaine self-administration alters patterns of gene expression in the brain that may underlie cocaine-induced neuronal plasticity. In the present study, male Sprague Dawley rats were allowed to self-administer cocaine (0.25 mg/infusion) 2 h/d for 14 d, followed by 7 d of forced abstinence. Compared with yoked saline control rats, cocaine self-administration resulted in increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein levels in the rat medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). To examine the functional relevance of this finding, cocaine self-administration maintained under a progressive ratio schedule of reinforcement was assessed after short hairpin RNA-induced suppression of BDNF expression in the mPFC. Decreased BDNF expression in the mPFC increased the cocaine self-administration breakpoint. Next, the effect of cocaine self-administration on specific BDNF exons was assessed; results revealed selectively increased BDNF exon IV-containing transcripts in the mPFC. Moreover, there were significant cocaine-induced increases in acetylated histone H3 (AcH3) and phospho-cAMP response element binding protein (pCREB) association with BDNF promoter IV. In contrast, there was decreased methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) association with BDNF promoter IV in the mPFC of rats that previously self-administered cocaine. Together, these results indicate that cocaine-induced increases in BDNF promoter IV transcript in the mPFC are driven by increased binding of AcH3 and pCREB as well as decreased MeCP2 binding at this BDNF promoter. Collectively, these results indicate that cocaine self-administration remodels chromatin in the mPFC, resulting in increased expression of BDNF, which appears to represent a compensatory neuroadaptation that reduces the reinforcing efficacy of cocaine.
Government Waste in China: Situation, Causes, and Countermeasures
Authors: Fan Bonai , Zhang Ming , Fang Chen , Wang Jing
Published: September 2010

The administrative expenditure of China has been growing rapidly in the past decades. This paper examines the forms and causes of government waste hidden in the high levels of administrative expenditure. Based on the findings, several specific policy suggestions are made.
Tongue Tie and Frenotomy in the Breastfeeding Newborn
Authors: Knox Isabella
Published: September 2010

Tongue tie or ankyloglossia has been the subject of much controversy. As defined in this review, tongue tie occurs when a common minor embryologic tissue remnant—persistence of midline sublingual tissue that usually undergoes apoptosis during embryonic development—causes restriction of normal tongue movement. Effective breastfeeding requires newborns to fine-tune their tongue movements to adapt to their mothers' particular nipple and breast anatomy and physiology. In the presence of tongue tie, two categories of signs/symptoms arise: those related to nipple trauma and those related to ineffective breast emptying and low infant intake. Untreated tongue tie can lead to untimely weaning and its attendant health risks. Frenotomy is a safe and effective procedure to release tongue tie and improve tongue function and breastfeeding outcomes.