bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Grain Boundaries Affect Microwave Dielectric Loss in Oxides?
Authors: Breeze Jonathan D. , Perkins James M. , McComb David W. , Alford Neil McN.
Published: March 2009

Reducing loss in microwave dielectrics is critical to improving performance in wireless communications systems. Grain boundaries in polycrystalline microwave dielectric ceramics have long been suspected of increasing dielectric loss. They are often cited as the main contributor to the observed difference in dielectric losses between single crystals and polycrystalline ceramics. The exact configuration of grain boundaries is problematic to quantify in practice and their influence on the dielectric loss difficult to distinguish from other defects such as porosity, oxygen vacancies, impurities, and dislocations. Here we measure the sensitivity of a single grain boundary in a magnesium oxide bi‐crystal to the polarization of an applied microwave field as a function of temperature.
A Cannabis sativa STR Genotype Database for Australian Seizures: Forensic Applications and Limitations*
Authors: Howard Christopher , Gilmore Simon , Robertson James , Peakall Rod
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  A genetic database was established with the aim of documenting the genetic diversity of Cannabis sativa in Australia for future utilization in forensic investigations. The database consisted of genotypes at 10 validated short tandem repeat loci for 510 plants representing drug seizures from across Australia and 57 fiber samples. A total of 106 alleles and 314 different genotypes were detected. All fiber samples exhibited unique genotypes while 55% of the drug samples shared a genotype with one or more samples. Shared genotypes were mostly found within seizures; however, some genotypes were found among seizures. Statistical analysis indicated that genotype sharing was a consequence of clonal propagation rather than a lack of genetic resolution. Thus, the finding of shared genotypes among seizures is likely due to either a common supplier, or direct links among seizures. Notwithstanding the potential intelligence information provided by genetic analysis of C. sativa, our database analysis also reveals some present limitations.
Individual Camera Identification Using Correlation of Fixed Pattern Noise in Image Sensors
Authors: Kurosawa Kenji , Kuroki Kenro , Akiba Norimitsu
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  This paper presents results of experiments related to individual video camera identification using a correlation coefficient of fixed pattern noise (FPN) in image sensors. Five color charge‐coupled device (CCD) modules of the same brand were examined. Images were captured using a 12‐bit monochrome video capture board and stored in a personal computer. For each module, 100 frames were captured. They were integrated to obtain FPN. The results show that a specific CCD module was distinguished among the five modules by analyzing the normalized correlation coefficient. The temporal change of the correlation coefficient during several days had only a negligible effect on identifying the modules. Furthermore, a positive relation was found between the correlation coefficient of the same modules and the number of frames that were used for image integration. Consequently, precise individual camera identification is enhanced by acquisition of as many frames as possible.
Further evidence for the involvement ofMYH9in the etiology of non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate
Authors: Birnbaum Stefanie , Reutter Heiko , Mende Meinhard , De Assis Nilma A. , Diaz‐Lacava Amalia , Herms Stefan , Scheer Martin , Lauster Carola , Braumann Bert , Schmidt Gül , Martini Markus , Hemprich Alexander , Pötzsch Simone , Knapp Michael , Nöthen Markus M. , Kramer Franz‐Josef , Mangold Elisabeth
Published: March 2009

Non‐syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCL/P) is one of the most common birth defects and has a multifactorial etiology that includes both genetic and environmental components.MYH9, the gene coding for the heavy chain of non‐muscle myosin II, has been considered as a good candidate gene in NSCL/P on the basis of its expression profile during craniofacial morphogenesis. Reports in an Italian sample, as well as in an ethnically mixed North American sample, of a positive association between single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in theMYH9gene and NSCL/P have provided further support for the role ofMYH9in the development of NSCL/P. In the present study, we aimed to replicate these findings by conducting a family‐based association study with seven single nucleotide polymorphisms inMYH9using a sample of 248 NSCL/P patients and their parents. Single marker analysis resulted in a highly significant association for rs7078. In haplotype analysis, the most significant result was obtained for the SNP combination (rs7078; rs2071731; rs739097; rs5995288). Our results thus confirm the potential involvement ofMYH9in the etiology of NSCL/P in our patients of Central European origin, although further studies are warranted to determine its exact pathogenetic role.
Effects of 1,4‐butanediol dimethacrylate and urethane dimethacrylate on HL‐60 cell metabolism
Authors: Nocca Giuseppina , Martorana Giuseppe E. , De Sole Pasquale , De Palma Francesco , Callà Cinzia , Corsale Pasquale , Antenucci Mirca , Gambarini Gianluca , Chimenti Claudio , Giardina Bruno , Lupi Alessandro
Published: March 2009

The polymerization of methacrylic monomers present in dental composite resins never reaches completion and therefore the leakage of residual monomers into the oral cavity and into biological fluids can cause local and systemic adverse effects. This work was carried out to study thein vitrobiochemical interactions of urethane dimethacrylate and 1,4‐butanediol dimethacrylate monomers with HL‐60 cells, a cell line assumed as an experimental model for simulating granulocyte behaviour. Our main finding was that both monomers induce cell differentiation at toxic concentrations and that cytotoxicity seems to be caused by alterations of glucose metabolism arising from mitochondrial dysfunction rather than from oxidative stress, which could not be altogether verified under our experimental conditions. Our study could be considered as a useful approach to investigate the biochemical mechanisms that contribute to the cytotoxicity of methacrylate compounds and it underlines the importance of assessing such parameters for testing biocompatibility in order to promote the development of better and safer dental materials.
Micro‐shear bond strengths and etching efficacy of a two‐step self‐etching adhesive system to fluorosed and non‐fluorosed enamel
Authors: Shida Kanako , Kitasako Yuichi , Burrow Michael F. , Tagami Junji
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the micro‐shear bond strengths and the etching efficacy of a two‐step self‐etching adhesive system to fluorosed and non‐fluorosed enamel. The extracted teeth, obtained from Australian and Japanese patients, were classified according to the severity of fluorosis, using the Thylstrup & Fejerskov index (TFI). Australian teeth were classified as mildly fluorosed (TFI = 1–3), whereas Japanese teeth were classified as non‐fluorosed (TFI = 0). Resin composite was bonded to 20 enamel samples using Clearfil SE bond. The bonded samples were stressed at a crosshead speed of 1 mm min−1 to determine the micro‐shear bond strength. To examine the etching efficacy of primer on fluorosed and non‐fluorosed enamel, the enamel‐surface pH values were directly measured using a micro pH sensor. The non‐fluorosed enamel showed significantly higher bond strengths compared with the fluorosed enamel. There was a statistical difference between fluorosed and non‐fluorosed enamel regarding the surface pH change before and after application of the Clearfil SE bond primer. The results from this study suggest that water fluoridation has an effect on the acid resistance of enamel surfaces when treated with a two‐step self‐etching adhesive system and that this effect leads to reduced bond strengths.
Efficient killing of SW480 colon carcinoma cells by a signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 hairpin decoy oligodeoxynucleotide – interference with interferon‐γ‐STAT1‐mediated killing
Authors: Tadlaoui Hbibi Ali , Laguillier Christelle , Souissi Inès , Lesage Denis , Le Coquil Stéphanie , Cao An , Metelev Valeri , Baran‐Marszak Fanny , Fagard Remi
Published: March 2009

The signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) convey signals from the membrane to the nucleus in response to cytokines or growth factors. STAT3 is activated in response to cytokines involved mostly in cell proliferation; STAT1 is activated by cytokines, including interferon‐γ, involved in defence against pathogens and the inhibition of cell proliferation. STAT3, which is frequently activated in tumour cells, is a valuable target with respect to achieving inhibition of tumour cell proliferation. Indeed, its inhibition results in cell death. We previously observed that inhibition of the transcription factor nuclear factor‐κB, a key regulator of cell proliferation, with decoy oligodeoxynucleotides results in cell death. We used a similar approach for STAT3. A hairpin STAT3 oligodeoxynucleotide was added to a colon carcinoma cell line in which it induced cell death as efficiently as the STAT3 inhibitor stattic. The hairpin STAT3 oligodeoxynucleotide co‐localized with STAT3 within the cytoplasm, prevented STAT3 localization to the nucleus, blocked a cyclin D1 reporter promoter and associated with STAT3 in pull‐down assays. However, the same cells were efficiently killed by interferon‐γ. This effect was counteracted by the STAT3 oligodeoxynucleotide, which was found to efficiently inhibit STAT1. Thus, although it can inhibit STAT3, the hairpin STAT3 oligodeoxynucleotide appears also to inhibit STAT1‐mediated interferon‐γ cell killing, highlighting the need to optimize STAT3‐targeting oligodeoxynucleotides.
A Compilation of Statistics for VOCs from Post‐1990 Indoor Air Concentration Studies in North American Residences Unaffected by Subsurface Vapor Intrusion
Authors: Dawson Helen E. , McAlary Todd
Published: March 2009

This paper provides a summary of a number of indoor air quality studies reporting concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air samples collected from residential properties in North America and provides average values for certain statistics (percentiles, detection frequency, maximum). This compilation includes several VOCs that are commonly assessed in studies of subsurface vapor intrusion to indoor air, but may also be attributable to consumer products, building materials, or even outdoor air (ambient) sources, specifically benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, 1,1‐dichloroethane, 1,1‐dichloroethene, 1,2‐dichloroethane, cis and trans‐1,2‐dichloroethene, ethylbenzene, methyl tert‐butyl ether, methylene chloride, tetrachloroethene, trichloroethene, toluene, trichloro‐1,2,2‐trifluoroethane, 1,1,1‐trichloroethane, vinyl chloride, and meta, para, and ortho‐xylene. In studies spanning 1990 through 2005, eleven of these compounds were detected in more than 50% of samples collected, and for several compounds (benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, ethylbenzene, and tetrachloroethene) the lower and upper quintiles of the indoor air concentrations are within the range of typical risk‐based target levels. These summary statistics may help interpret data collected during a vapor intrusion investigation and communicate the findings of indoor air quality studies to building occupants and other stakeholders. Similar studies have been published in the past, but there has been a gradual change in indoor air quality over time and a large amount of new data has been collected, so this paper provides more relevant information for current use than previous compilations.
Simulated Soil Vapor Intrusion Attenuation Factors Including Biodegradation for Petroleum Hydrocarbons
Authors: Abreu Lilian D.V. , Ettinger Robert , McAlary Todd
Published: March 2009

Aerobic biodegradation can contribute significantly to the attenuation of petroleum hydrocarbons vapors in the unsaturated zone; however, most regulatory guidance for assessing potential human health risks via vapor intrusion to indoor air either neglect biodegradation in developing generic screening levels or allow for only one order of magnitude additional attenuation for aerobically degradable compounds, which may be overly conservative in some cases. This paper describes results from three‐dimensional numerical model simulations of vapor intrusion for petroleum hydrocarbons to assess the influence of aerobic biodegradation on the attenuation factor for a variety of source concentrations and depths for residential buildings with basements and slab‐on‐grade construction. The simulations conducted in this study provide a framework for understanding the degree to which bioattenuation will occur under a variety of scenarios and provide insight into site conditions that will result in significant biodegradation. This improved understanding may be used to improve the conceptual model of contaminant transport, guide field data collection and interpretation, and estimate semi‐site‐specific attenuation factors for combinations of source concentrations, source depth, oxygen distribution, and building characteristics where site conditions reasonably match the scenarios simulated herein.
Observed Spatial and Temporal Distributions of CVOCs at Colorado and New York Vapor Intrusion Sites
Authors: Folkes David , Wertz William , Kurtz Jeffrey , Kuehster Theodore
Published: March 2009

The vapor intrusion impacts associated with the presence of chlorinated volatile organic contaminant plumes in the ground water beneath residential areas in Colorado and New York have been the subject of extensive site investigations and structure sampling efforts. Large data sets of ground water and indoor air monitoring data collected over a decade‐long monitoring program at the Redfield, Colorado, site and monthly ground water and structure monitoring data collected over a 19‐month period from structures in New York State are analyzed to illustrate the temporal and spatial distributions in the concentration of volatile organic compounds that one may encounter when evaluating the potential for exposures due to vapor intrusion. The analysis of these data demonstrates that although the areal extent of structures impacted by vapor intrusion mirrors the areal extent of chlorinated volatile organic compounds in the ground water, not all structures above the plume will be impacted. It also highlights the fact that measured concentrations of volatile organic compounds in the indoor air and subslab vapor can vary considerably from month to month and season to season. Sampling results from any one location at any given point in time cannot be expected to represent the range of conditions that may exist at neighboring locations or at other times. Recognition of this variability is important when designing sampling plans and risk management programs to address the vapor intrusion pathway.
A Case Study of Soil‐Gas Sampling in Silt and Clay‐Rich (Low‐Permeability) Soils
Authors: McAlary Todd A. , Nicholson Paul , Groenevelt Hester , Bertrand David
Published: March 2009

Soil‐gas sampling and analysis is a common tool used in vapor intrusion assessments; however, sample collection becomes more difficult in fine‐grained, low‐permeability soils because of limitations on the flow rate that can be sustained during purging and sampling. This affects the time required to extract sufficient volume to satisfy purging and sampling requirements. The soil‐gas probe tubing or pipe and sandpack around the probe screen should generally be purged prior to sampling. After purging, additional soil gas must be extracted for chemical analysis, which may include field screening, laboratory analysis, occasional duplicate samples, or analysis for more than one analytical method (e.g., volatile organic compounds and semivolatile organic compounds). At present, most regulatory guidance documents do not distinguish between soil‐gas sampling methods that are appropriate for high‐ or low‐permeability soils. This paper discusses permeability influences on soil‐gas sample collection and reports data from a case study involving soil‐gas sampling from silt and clay‐rich soils with moderate to extremely low gas permeability to identify a sampling approach that yields reproducible samples with data quality appropriate for vapor intrusion investigations for a wide range of gas‐permeability conditions.
Retrospective analysis of the relationship between time of thoracostomy drain removal and discharge time
Authors: Marques A. I. D. C. , Tattersall J. , Shaw D. J. , Welsh E.
Published: March 2009

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the volume of fluid being produced at the time of thoracostomy drain removal and the time to hospital discharge in dogs and cats.

Methods: Records of 101 dogs and 26 cats with thoracostomy drains were reviewed. Three subgroups were created according to the reason for thoracostomy drain placement: P (postsurgical), A (air) and F (fluid). A generalised linear model with Poisson Errors was performed to test the relationship between the volume of fluid produced at the time of thoracostomy drain removal and the time to discharge. The volume of fluid produced and the time to discharge were compared between species and subgroups.

Results: No significant relationship was found between the volume of fluid produced at the time of thoracostomy drain removal and the time to discharge in either species or between the time to discharge and the reason for thoracostomy drain placement. Animals with a volume of fluid higher than 2 ml/kg/day at the time of thoracostomy drain removal did not have increased hospitalisation times.

Clinical Significance: Thoracostomy drain can be removed, without clinical compromise, when the volume of fluid produced exceeds 2 ml/kg/day. However, other clinical parameters must be taken into consideration.
Haemaphysalis concinna(Acari: Ixodida): Persistent efficacy of doramectin in rabbits under laboratory conditions
Authors: BIAN Yao , YANG Guangyou , WANG Tao , YAN Huijuan , WANG Shuai , SUN Jiagang , LI Kaijun
Published: March 2009

In the present study, the persistent efficacy of doramectin (DOR) in rabbits infested byHaemaphysalis concinnawas observed. DOR (200 µg/kg) was administered once to infested rabbits by subcutaneous injection. A total of 15 rabbits were allocated to three groups, which were observed for efficacy. On days 1–7, 8–14, 15–21 and 22–28 post‐inoculation, the percent reduction of tick larvae in DOR treated rabbits was 100.0, 100.0, 86.7 and 61.7%, respectively; the percent reduction of nymphs was 100.0, 90.0, 75.0 and 65.0%, respectively; and the percent reduction of adults was 85.0, 65.0, 55.0 and 55.0%, respectively. In comparison, in untreated rabbits at the same time points (control group), the percent reduction of larvae was 5.0, 3.3, 5.0 and 5.0%, respectively, and there was no reduction of nymphs and adults in the untreated rabbits.
Foraging ecology of a local wild bee community in an abandoned Satoyama system in Kanazawa, Central Japan
Authors: PUTRA Ramadhani Eka , NAKAMURA Koji
Published: March 2009

Satoyama is a traditional land management system in Japan that emphasizes the importance of a harmonious relationship between humans and their environment. It has been in a state of abandonment and destruction since the late 1960s. In 2000, the Japanese government initiated a new environment policy encouraging the use of Satoyama in biodiversity reservation areas. Before the initiation of active restoration works, an assessment of the potential of the Satoyama system is needed. To assess this potential, a study that focused on the foraging ecology of wild bees in a small abandoned Satoyama terraced paddy was carried out from June to October 2003. A total of 372 foraging bees belonging to 35 species in nine families was collected: two species of social bee (Apis ceranaandBombus diversus) and two of solitary bee (Lasioglossum japonicumandLasioglossum ohei) dominated. The foraging activities of wild bees were highly influenced by the requirement of food for the colony and the active time of solitary bees. In the study, most wild bees showed a strong preference for abundant flowering plant species that produced a large number of flowers (Achyranthes japonicaandPolygonum thunbergii). The results showed that an abandoned Satoyama system was an agricultural system that benefited pollinating bees. Careful and planned restoration practices to increase the diversity of foraging resources, microenvironment diversity and potential nesting areas for wild bees are needed to improve the ability of the Satoyama system to support more diverse and abundant wild bee populations.
Expression profile of Notch‐related genes in multidrug resistant K562/A02 cells compared with parental K562 cells
Authors: YAN S. , MA D. , JI M. , GUO D. , DAI J. , ZHAO P. , JI C.
Published: March 2009

Drug resistance is the major setback of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) therapy. Notch proteins have demonstrated functional regulation in cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis and thus may affect drug resistance. Our study aimed to identify the Notch‐related gene profile in drug‐resistant AML cells and provide potential strategies for resistant AML therapy. 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was conducted to detect the cytotoxicity of adriamycin toward K562 and drug‐resistant K562/A02. Intracellular mean fluorescence intensity was monitored to reflect the intake of adriamycin by confocal microscopy. cDNA microarray was used to test the expression of 113 Notch signaling pathway‐related genes in K562/A02 and K562. Real‐time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and western blot were used to validate the results from microarray. K562/A02 cells showed a 65‐fold higher IC50 to adriamycin and less intracellular accumulation of adriamycin than K562. cDNA microarray showed marked increases in binding of collagen and cell proliferation‐related genes (CD44, DLL3, IL17B, NUMB, and NUMBL) and decreases in signal transduction and transcription factor activity related genes (FZD9, GBP2, GLI1, GLI2, IFNG, KRT5, Notch2, and Notch3). The change of gene expression was further validated by real‐time RT‐PCR and western blot. Notch signaling pathway‐related genes may contribute to the drug resistance of AML.
Onobrychis oshnaviyehensis sp. nov. (sect. Hymenobrychis, Fabaceae) from Iran
Authors: Ranjbar M.
Published: March 2009

Onobrychis oshnaviyehensis (Fabaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species. This species, which belongs to the section Hymenobrychis, is confined to northwest Iran (Azarbaijan Province) and is only known from a single population close to the Turkish border.
Dynamic manipulation of a laser beam using a liquid crystal spatial light modulator
Authors: Boruah B. R.
Published: March 2009

This article describes a graduate level optics laboratory experiment on the manipulation of the wavefront of a laser beam using a spatial light modulator. A computer generated holography technique is employed to generate a custom defined wavefront, realized in the +1 diffraction order when a collimated laser beam is diffracted by a binary transmission hologram. The hologram is written on a liquid crystal spatial light modulator and can be updated at a video rate using a personal computer interface.
The swingby mechanism analyzed with a new graphical formalism for three-dimensional elastic collisions
Authors: Müller Rainer
Published: March 2009

We introduce a simple graphical formalism for analyzing three-dimensional elastic collisions using energy and momentum conservation. We use the formalism to elucidate the physics of the swingby mechanism. As an example we treat the encounter of Pioneer 10 with Jupiter in 1973.
The second law of classical thermodynamics stated in terms of twin systems
Authors: Morales Alejandro
Published: March 2009

An alternative formulation of the second law of thermodynamics is presented in terms of twin systems in thermal equilibrium. This formulation allows a direct derivation of the thermodynamic variables of absolute temperature and entropy. The efficiency of Carnot cycles is also derived. Irreversible processes are defined in part two of the second law and the Kelvin-Planck and Clausius statements of the second law are derived.
Magnetism and Simultaneity
Authors: Adler Charles L.
Published: March 2009

Consider the following problem: Imagine a charged particle with charge q moving with velocity v parallel to a long, current-carrying wire with current I moving in the same direction as the charge. What is the force on the charge? The answer will look something like this:
A Simple Apparatus for Demonstrating How Light Rays Emanate From a Point Source
Authors: Kaewkhong Kreetha , Emarat Narumon , Arayathanitkul Kwan , Mazzolini Alex
Published: March 2009

A point source of light sends out light rays in all directions and in straight lines. This is an important concept for all students who study elementary optics at the high school level. Most physics textbooks discuss this topic only briefly.1–6 They usually explain the concept by using two-dimensional diagrams even though a three-dimensional discussion may be more instructive. Much of the commercial demonstration equipment that can be used to explain this concept is very expensive (e.g., the optics kit from Suksapan Panit Company7 in Thailand costs approximately $70 U.S.). This and similar optics kits show that light propagates in straight lines but do not represent where the light beams come from. Because it is an abstract idea, most students still have considerable misunderstanding about this concept.8–14 This paper describes an effective but inexpensive (approximately $20 U.S.) apparatus to illustrate the behavior of light rays emitted isotropically from a point source of light. The apparatus is simple and is intelligible to students.
The paroxysmal dyskinesias
Authors: van Rootselaar A-F , van Westrum S Schade , Tijssen M A J , Velis Demetrios N
Published: March 2009

The paroxysmal dyskinesias are a challenging group of movement disorders characterised by painless dystonic and/or choreiform movements. Lack of familiarity with their features and a normal neurological examination between attacks frequently cause diagnostic delays, or even the diagnosis of a non-organic disorder. They are classified by their mode of triggering, and also by the duration and frequency of attacks, effectiveness of medication, and any associated syndromes. Four subtypes are recognised: paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia induced by sudden movement; paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesia precipitated by for instance alcohol or caffeine; paroxysmal exercise-induced dyskinesia triggered by longer lasting activity; and paroxysmal hypnogenic dyskinesia occurring during sleep. Here we will summarise the characteristics of the subtypes, discuss the differential diagnosis, genetic aspects and pathophysiology, and give practical advice on the diagnostic work-up and treatment.
A SEMI-AUTOMATIC APPROACH FOR CONFOUNDING-AWARE SUBGROUP DISCOVERY
Authors: ATZMUELLER MARTIN , PUPPE FRANK , BUSCHER HANS-PETER
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a semi-automatic approach for confounding-aware subgroup discovery: Confounding essentially disturbs the measured effect of an association between variables due to the influence of other parameters that were not considered. The proposed method is embedded into a general subgroup discovery approach, and provides the means for detecting potentially confounded subgroup patterns, other unconfounded relations, and/or patterns that are affected by effect-modification. Since there is no purely automatic test for confounding, the discovered relations are presented to the user in a semi-automatic approach. Furthermore, we utilize (causal) domain knowledge for improving the results of the algorithm, since confounding is itself a causal concept. The applicability and benefit of the presented technique is illustrated by real-world examples from a case-study in the medical domain.
HIERARCHICAL COOPERATIVE CoEVOLUTION: PRESENTATION AND ASSESSMENT STUDY
Authors: MANIADAKIS MICHAIL , TRAHANIAS PANOS
Published: March 2009

The current paper addresses the design of complex distributed systems consisting of many components by using Hierarchical Cooperative CoEvolution (HCCE), an optimization mechanism that also follows a distributed organization. The proposed coevolutionary scheme is capable of optimizing complex distributed systems, taking also into account the specialized roles of substructures. Here, we present HCCE and we compare it with ordinary Unimodal evolution and Enforced SubPopulation coevolution. The current study aims at highlighting the internal dynamics of HCCE that give rise to its effectiveness in addressing difficult distributed design problems. The results obtained attest to the validity and effectiveness of HCCE, showing that it outperforms both other schemes.
Hybrid Iterative Methods for Convex Feasibility Problems and Fixed Point Problems of Relatively Nonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Plubtieng Somyot , Ungchittrakool Kasamsuk
Published: March 2009

The convex feasibility problem (CFP) of finding a point in the nonempty intersection "Equation missing" is considered, where "Equation missing" is an integer and the "Equation missing"'s are assumed to be convex closed subsets of a Banach space "Equation missing". By using hybrid iterative methods, we prove theorems on the strong convergence to a common fixed point for a finite family of relatively nonexpansive mappings. Then, we apply our results for solving convex feasibility problems in Banach spaces.
CMB Temperature Polarization Correlation and Primordial Gravitational Waves: WMAP5
Authors: Miller N. J. , Keating B. G. , Polnarev A. G.
Published: March 2009

we continue our study of the CMB temperature polarization (TE) cross‐correlation as a source of
information about primordial gravitational waves (PGWs). In a previous paper, we considered two
methods for detecting PGWs using the TE cross‐correlation. The first method is the zero multipole
method, where we find the multipole, ℓ0, where the TE cross‐correlation power spectrum, , first changes sign. The second method Wiener filters the CMB TE data to remove the density
perturbation contribution to the TE power spectrum. We then use statistical tests to determine
if there is a detection of negative residual TE correlation and hence a detection of primordial
gravitational waves, the only source of negative TE correlation at these superhorizon scales. In this
paper, we will apply these tests to the WMAP 5‐year data. We find that the TE power spectrum
consistent with r < 2.0 at 95% confidence with no additional assumptions about the PGWs. If we
assume that the PGWs are generated by inflation, then we get r < 1.0 at 95% confidence.
Electrical Switching in Thin Films of Nandi Flame Seed Cuticles
Authors: Kipnusu Wycliffe K. , Katana Gabriel , Migwi Charles M. , Rathore I. V. S. , Sangoro Joshua R.
Published: March 2009

Current-voltage () characteristics of Nandi flame seed cuticles (NFSCs) have been studied as a function of irradiation, annealing, and poling temperature. The cuticles showed memory and threshold switching. Threshold voltage was about 5 V which is almost five times higher than observed in synthetic polymers. The threshold voltage increased to 6–8 V after irradiation and annealing depending on the duration of annealing or irradiation. After switching, conductivity increased by an order of . In reverse bias, increase of current was observed and the memory hysteresis loop was at higher conductivity than at the time of switching. Switching effect was minimized at a poling temperature of 370 K. Formation of semiquinones and quinoid radicals from phenolic compounds may have contributed to electrical switching and hysteresis effect.
Metastatic Crohn's Disease of the Ear
Authors: Chuah J. H. , Kim D. S. , Allen C. , Hollis L.
Published: March 2009

Objective. We reported a very rare case of metastatic Crohn's disease involving the retro-auricular region.Method. A case report and a review of literature concerning metastatic Crohn's disease.Results. Metastatic Crohn's disease is an uncommon extraintestinal cutaneous manifestation of Crohn's disease and a very rare case involving the retro-auricular region is reported here. Given the limited existing literature little is known about this condition. The skin lesions appear to have a predilection for the lower trunk and genitalia regions. There is no clear association with the severity of Crohn's disease and in some cases, the cutaneous lesions predate the onset of gastrointestinal Crohn's disease. Treatment with immune-modulating medications together with the antitumour necrosis factor monoclonal antibody therapy appears to offer the best chance of remission.Conclusion. By reporting this interesting and rare condition we also hope to highlight the importance of considering underlying chronic systemic disorders, such as Crohn's disease, when presented with skin lesions resistant to simple local treatments.
Stored erythrocytes have less capacity than normal erythrocytes to support primary haemostasis
Authors: Zehnder Linda , Schulzki Thomas , Reinhart Walter
Published: March 2009

Primary haemostasis is mediated by platelet aggregation. Red blood cells (RBCs) are involved in this process. We hypothesised that stored RBCs could have less capacity to support primary haemostasis. This was tested with RBC units from 17 healthy volunteers stored for 45 days. Fresh citrated blood was taken again from the same donors and platelet-rich plasma was prepared, in which RBCs were resuspended with a constant haematocrit (40%), but changing fractions of stored versus fresh auto-logous RBCs (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%, respectively). A platelet function analyser PFA-100® was used. In this instrument blood is aspirated through a membrane pore coated with collagen and either epinephrine (EPI) or ADP, which causes platelets to adhere, aggregate, and form an occluding plug, which stops blood flow and is measured as closure time (CT). We found that the CT increased with increasing fractions of stored blood. CT-EPI was 121 ± 17 seconds [s], 129 ± 32 s, 164 ± 45 s (p< 0.000, ANOVA), 214 ± 54 s (p< 0.0001), and 273 ± 36 s (p< 0.0001) for 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% stored RBCs. For CT-ADP the values were 91 ± 22 s, 95 ± 12 s, 101 ± 13 s, 124 ± 44 s (p= 0.004), and 191 ± 72 s (p< 0.0001), respectively. We conclude that stored RBCs have less capacity than normal RBCs to support primary haemostasis by platelet aggregation in vitro, suggesting a decreased capacity of stored RBCs to bring platelets into close contact with the wall, which may contribute to sustained bleeding seen after mass transfusion.
Venous thromboembolism and bleeding in a community setting
Authors: Gore Joel , Reed George , Lessard Darleen , Pacifico Luigi , Emery Cathy , Crowther Mark , Goldberg Robert , Spencer Frederick
Published: March 2009

Bleeding is the most frequent complication of antithrombotic therapy for venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, little attention has been paid to the impact of bleeding after VTE in the community setting. The purpose of this investigation was to describe the incidence rate of bleeding after VTE, to characterize patients most at risk for bleeding, and to assess the impact of bleeding on rates of recurrent VTE and all-cause mortality. The medical records of residents of the Worcester (MA, USA) metropolitan area diagnosed with ICD-9 codes consistent with potential VTE during 1999, 2001, and 2003 were individually validated and reviewed by trained data abstracters. Clinical characteristics, acute treatment, and outcomes (including VTE recurrence rates, bleeding rates, and mortality) over follow-up (up to 3 years maximum) were evaluated. Bleeding occurred in 228 (12%) of 1,897 patients with VTE during our follow-up. Of these, 115 (58.8%) had evidence of early bleeding occurring within 30 days of VTE diagnosis. Patient characteristics associated with bleeding included impaired renal function and recent trauma. Other than a history of prior VTE, the occurrence of bleeding was the strongest predictor of recurrent VTE (hazard ratio [HR] 2.18; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.54–3.09) and was also a predictor of total mortality (HR 1.97; 95%CI 1.57–2.47). The occur-rence of bleeding following VTE is associated with an increased risk of recurrent VTE and mortality. Future study of antithrombotic strategies for VTE should be informed by this finding. Advances that result in decreased bleeding rates may paradoxically decrease the risk of VTE recurrence.
Immuno-inflammatory activation in acute cardio-embolic strokes in comparison with other subtypes of ischaemic stroke
Authors: Raimondo Domenico Di , Corrao Salvatore , Sciacca Riccardo Di , Licata Giuseppe , Tuttolomondo Antonino , Pinto Antonio
Published: March 2009

Few studies have examined the relationship between inflammatory biomarker blood levels, cardioembolic stroke subtype and neurological deficit. So the aim of our study is to evaluate plasma levels of immuno-inflammatory variables in patients with cardio-embolic acute ischaemic stroke compared to other diagnostic subtypes and to evaluate the relationship between immuno-inflammatory variables, acute neurological deficit and brain infarct volume. One hundred twenty patients with acute ischaemic stroke and 123 controls without a diagnosis of acute ischaemic stroke were evaluated. The type of acute ischaemic stroke was classified according to the TOAST classification. We evaluated plasma levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10, E-selectin, P-selectin, sICAM-1,sVCAM-1, vWF, TPA and PAI-1. Patients with ischaemic stroke classified as cardio-embolic (CEI) showed, compared to other subtypes, significantly higher median plasma levels of TNF-α , IL-6 and IL-1β. Furthermore stroke patients classified as lacunar showed, compared to other subtypes, significantly lower median plasma levels of TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β. Multiple linear regression showed a significant association between the Scandinavian Stroke Scale (SSS) score at admission and diagnostic subtype, infarct volume of cardio-embolic strokes and some inflammatory variables. Our findings confirm that cardio-embolic strokes have a worse clinical presentation and produce larger and more disabling strokes than other ischaemic stroke subtypes reporting a possible explanation of higher immuno-inflammatory activation of the acute phase.
Microparticle-linked tissue factor activity and increased thrombin activity play a potential role in fibrinolysis failure in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Ajzenberg Nadine , Feldman Laurent , Guillin Marie-Claude , Steg Philippe Gabriel , Huisse Marie-Geneviève
Published: March 2009

Fibrinolysis for acute ST-segment elevation MI achieves early recanalisation of the infarct artery in approximately 60% of cases. The aim of the study was to determine whether failure to achieve recanalisation was associated with differences in haemostasis biomarkers compared to patients with successful fibrinolysis. Fourty-three patients were prospectively enrolled in a case-control study. All patients had received tenecteplase (TNKtPA) together with aspirin (500 mg) and heparin (5,000 IU). Emergency angiography within 90 minutes of bolus TNK-tPA identified 13 TIMI 0–2 patients (cases) and 30 TIMI 3 patients (controls). Blood samples were collected before angiography to determine tissue factor activity associated with microparticles (TF-MP); soluble platelet glycoprotein V (sGPV) and thrombinantithrombin complexes (TAT) as markers of thrombin generation; tissue plasminogen activator (endogenous tPA+ TNKtPA), plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI-1) and plasmin-anti-plasmin complexes (PAP) as markers of plasmin generation. The baseline characteristics of the two patients’ groups were similar with respect to sex, age, and risks factors. Cases differed from controls by higher TF-MP levels (1.9 [1–13] vs. 1 [0.6–1.3] pM), sGPV (67 [51–126] vs. (48 [39–72] ng/ml), p=0.039 and TAT (10 [4–37.5] vs. 4 [2.9–7.2] ng/ml), p=0.035. TAT correlated with TF-MP (r=0.51, p=0.0064) and sGPV (r=0.51, p=0.0018). No significant difference was observed in tPA or PAI-1 levels. PAP were lower in cases (18.83 [14.83–40.43] μg/ml) than in controls (35.83 [27.9–43.94] μg/ml), p=0.045. In conclusion, fibrinolysis failure in AMI is characterised by a higher procoagulant state associated with TF-MP and a lower plasmin generation.
Non-overt disseminated intravascular coagulation scoring for critically ill patients: The impact of antithrombin levels
Authors: Morimatsu Hiroshi , Wiedermann Christian , Tani Makiko , Kanazawa Tomoyuki , Suzuki Satoshi , Matsusaki Takashi , Shimizu Kazuyoshi , Toda Yuichiro , Iwasaki Tatsuo , Morita Kiyoshi , Egi Moritoki
Published: March 2009

Validation of a scoring algorithm for non-overt disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) proposed by the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) is still incomplete. It was the objective of this study to assess the impact of including AT to non-overt DIC scoring on the predictability for intensive care unit (ICU) death and the later development of overt-DIC defined by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare (JMHW) or the ISTH. We performed a retrospective observational study conducted in 364 patients in critical care. Coagulation parameters obtained daily for DIC screening were utilised for scoring. There were 194 and 196 patients scored as positive non-overt DIC with and without AT, respectively; diagnostic agreement between the two was 78%. As compared with patients without non-overt DIC, these non-overt DIC patients had significantly higher mortality. In 37 ICU non-survivors, positive non-overt DIC scoring with AT preceded ICU death by a median of 6.8 days, which was significantly earlier as compared with a median of 5.4 days for non-overt DIC without AT (p=0.022). In patients who developed overt-DIC after admission, the time period from positive non-overt DIC to positive overt-DIC was significantly longer when AT was utilised (overt-DIC ISTH; 1.3 days vs. 0.1 days, p=0.004, overt-DIC JMHW; 2.5 days vs. 2.0 days, p=0.04, with AT vs. without AT, respectively). Non-overt DIC scoring predicted a high risk of death in critically ill patients. When information on AT levels was included, non-overt DIC scoring was found to predict development of overt-DIC significantly earlier than non-overt DIC scoring without AT.
Clinical significance of kallikrein-related peptidase 7 (KLK7) in colorectal cancer
Authors: Mathioudaki Konstantina , Prezas Panagiotis , Alexopoulou Dimitra , Diamandis Eleftherios , Xynopoulos Dimitris , Ardavanis Alexandros , Arnogiannaki Niki , Scorilas Andreas , Talieri Maroulio
Published: March 2009

Human tissue kallikrein-related peptidases are a family of 15 secreted serine proteases, located at chromosome 19q13.4. Most of them have been reported to be potential biomarkers for several carcinomas and other diseases. Human tissue kallikrein-related peptidase 7 (KLK7) has been purified from human stratum corneum and resembles a chymotryptic endopeptidase originally called stratum corneum chymotryptic enzyme (SCCE). In this study, we examined for the first time, the prognostic value of KLK7 mRNA expression, using a semi-quantitative RT-PCR method, in 105 colorectal cancer tissues for 54 of which, paired normal colonic mucosa were available. Furthermore, we analysed the expression of KLK7 in 10 adenomas, in 18 biopsies of inflamed colon mucosa, as well as in 22 human cancer cell lines of various origin, four of them being of colon. A defined number of colon cancer samples were also examined by immunohisto-chemistry. KLK7 expression was higher in cancerous than in normal tissues. Less differentiated tumors of more advanced stage showed higher KLK7 expression. Follow-up analysis revealed that KLK7 was significantly associated with shorter overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). In addition, selected colon cancer samples highly expressing KLK7 gene, showed intense immunohistochemical staining for KLK7, enhancing RTPCR results. Present data suggest that KLK7 gene is up-regulated in colon cancer and its expression predicts poor prognosis for colon cancer patients.
Treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer: Subgroup analysis of the Matisse clinical trials
Authors: Raskob Gary , Davidson Bruce , Decousus Hervé , Gallus Alexander , Lensing Anthie , Piovella Franco , Prins Martin , Büller Harry , van Doormaal Frederiek
Published: March 2009

In the initial treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) fondaparinux, a pentasaccharide, is a good alternative to heparin. Whether this is also true for cancer patients is unknown. We performed two post-hoc analyses of two randomized studies to compare efficacy, safety and overall survival of fondaparinux to standard initial (low-molecular-weight) heparin (LMWH) treatment in cancer patients with venous thromboembolism. Two hundred thirty-seven cancer patients with deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were initially treated with fondaparinux or enoxaparin. Two hundred forty cancer patients with pulmonary embolism (PE) received fondaparinux or unfractionated heparin. The initial treatment was followed by vitamin K antagonists. In DVT patients, the three-month recurrence rate was 5.4% in the enoxaparin recipients compared to 12.7% in those treated with fondaparinux [absolute difference 7.3%, 95% CI 0.1, 14.5]. A recurrence was observed in 8.9% of the PE patients treated with fondaparinux compared to 17.2% in the unfractionated heparin recipients [absolute difference –8.3, 95% CI –16.7, 0.1]. In both studies no difference in bleeding and overall survival was observed. Regarding overall survival and bleeding fondaparinux is comparable to enoxaparin and unfractionated heparin in cancer patients. No significant differences in recurrent VTE were observed when comparing fondaparinux with unfractionated or LMWH. Because of study limitations these results should be considered hypothesis-generating.
Protection of vascular barrier integrity by activated protein C in murine models depends on protease-activated receptor-1
Authors: Fernández José , Griffin John , Schuepbach Reto , Feistritzer Clemens , Riewald Matthias
Published: March 2009

Protease activated receptor-1 (PAR1) mediates barrier protective signalling of activated protein C (APC) in human endothelial cells in vitro and may contribute to APC’s beneficial effects in patients with severe sepsis. Mouse models are of key importance for translational research but species differences may limit conclusions for the human system. We analysed whether mouse APC can cleave, activate and induce signalling through murine PAR1 and tested in newly established mouse models if long-term infusion of APC prevents from vascular leakage. Cell surface immunoassays demonstrated efficient cleavage of endogenous murine endothelial PAR1 by either murine or human APC. Pharmacological concentrations of APC of either species had powerful barrier protective effects on cultured murine endothelial cells that required PAR1 cleavage. Vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated hyperpermeability in the skin was reduced by either endogenously generated as well as directly infused recombinant mouse APC in wild-type mice. However APC did not significantly alter the vascular barrier function in PAR1-deficient mice. In endotoxin-challenged mice, infused APC significantly prevented from pulmonary fluid accumulation in the wild-type mice but not in mice lacking PAR1. Our results directly show that murine APC cleaves and signals through PAR1 in mouse endothelial cells. APC reduces vascular permeability in mouse models and PAR1 plays a major role in mediating these effects. Our data in vitro and in vivo support the paradigm that PAR1 contributes to protective effects of APC on vascular barrier integrity in sepsis.