bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TMD FACTORIZATION AND EVOLUTION FOR TMD CORRELATION FUNCTIONS
Authors: MERT AYBAT S. , ROGERS TED C.
Published: November 2011

We discuss the application of transverse momentum dependent (TMD) factorization theorems to phenomenology. Our treatment relies on recent extensions of the Collins-Soper-Sterman (CSS) formalism. Emphasis is placed on the importance of using well-defined TMD parton distribution functions (PDFs) and fragmentation functions (FFs) in calculating the evolution of these objects. We explain how parametrizations of unpolarized TMDs can be obtained from currently existing fixed-scale Gaussian fits and previous implementations of the CSS formalism in the Drell-Yan process, and provide some examples. We also emphasize the importance of agreed-upon definitions for having an unambiguous prescription for calculating higher orders in the hard part, and provide examples of higher order calculations. We end with a discussion of strategies for extending the phenomenological applications of TMD factorization to situations beyond the unpolarized case.
TRANSVERSE MOMENTUM DISTRIBUTIONS FROM EFFECTIVE FIELD THEORY
Authors: MANTRY SONNY , PETRIELLO FRANK
Published: November 2011

We present a factorization theorem for the low transverse momentum (pT) and rapidity (Y) distribution of the Higgs and electroweak gauge bosons using the Soft-Collinear Effective Theory. In the region M ≫ pT ≫ ΛQCD, where M denotes the mass of the electroweak object, the factorization formula is given in terms of perturbatively calculable functions and the standard PDFs. For pT ~ ΛQCD, the factorization theorem is given in terms of non-perturbative Impact-parameter Beam Functions (iBFs) and an Inverse Soft Function (iSF). The iBFs correspond to completely unintegrated PDFs and can be interesting probes of momentum distributions in the nucleon. The iBFs and the iSF are grouped together and written as a product of a gauge invariant and non-perturbative Transverse Momentum Function (TMF) with the standard PDFs. We present results of NLL resummation for the Higgs and Z-boson distributions and give a comparison with Tevatron data.
EVOLUTION EQUATIONS OF TWIST-THREE PARTON DISTRIBUTIONS
Authors: PIRNAY BJÖRN
Published: November 2011

We report on a recent work concerning the scale dependence of twist-three correlation functions relevant for the single transverse spin asymmetry in the framework of collinear factorization. Evolution equations are presented for both the flavor–nonsinglet and flavor–singlet distributions. Our results do not agree with previous calculations of the evolution in the limit of vanishing gluon momentum. Possible sources for this discrepancy are identified.
SHAPE OF PION DISTRIBUTION AMPLITUDE AND TRANSVERSE MOMENTUM IN HARD EXCLUSIVE PROCESSES
Authors: RADYUSHKIN A. V.
Published: November 2011

Inclusion of transverse momentum effects into the description of the pion-photon transition form factor is discussed. At low k⊥, a consistent description may be obtained within the light-front formalism. On the other hand, the large-k⊥ limit is most conveniently treated within the Sudakov parameterization framework. The third way of introducing k⊥ is based on the "local duality" approach motivated by QCD sum rules. It is shown that, while the local duality gives a correct (coinciding with the axial anomaly based prediction) result for the real photon point, a straightforward extension of the formulas of the modified factorization approach into the small virtualities domain produces a divergent result. It is pointed out that such lessons should be taken into account while constructing transverse-momentum-dependent schemes for inclusive processes.
On Certain Subclasses of Analytic Functions Defined by Differential Subordination
Authors: Mahzoon Hesam
Published: November 2011

We introduce and study certain subclasses of analytic functions which are defined by differential subordination. Coefficient inequalities, some properties of neighborhoods, distortion and covering theorems, radius of starlikeness, and convexity for these subclasses are given.
Application of Thermal Network Model to Transient Thermal Analysis of Power Electronic Package Substrate
Authors: Ishizuka Masaru , Hatakeyama Tomoyuki , Funawatashi Yuichi , Koizumi katsuhiro
Published: November 2011

In recent years, there is a growing demand to have smaller and lighter electronic circuits which have greater complexity, multifunctionality, and reliability. High-density multichip packaging technology has been used in order to meet these requirements. The higher the density scale is, the larger the power dissipation per unit area becomes. Therefore, in the designing process, it has become very important to carry out the thermal analysis. However, the heat transport model in multichip modules is very complex, and its treatment is tedious and time consuming. This paper describes an application of the thermal network method to the transient thermal analysis of multichip modules and proposes a simple model for the thermal analysis of multichip modules as a preliminary thermal design tool. On the basis of the result of transient thermal analysis, the validity of the thermal network method and the simple thermal analysis model is confirmed.
Protein Surface Characterization Using an Invariant Descriptor
Authors: Abu Deeb Zainab , Adjeroh Donald A. , Jiang Bing-Hua
Published: November 2011

Aim. To develop a new invariant descriptor for the characterization of protein surfaces, suitable for various analysis tasks, such as protein functional classification, and search and retrieval of protein surfaces over a large database.Methods. We start with a local descriptor of selected circular patches on the protein surface. The descriptor records the distance distribution between the central residue and the residues within the patch, keeping track of the number of particular pairwise residue cooccurrences in the patch. A global descriptor for the entire protein surface is then constructed by combining information from the local descriptors. Our method is novel in its focus on residue-specific distance distributions, and the use of residue-distance co-occurrences as the basis for the proposed protein surface descriptors.Results. Results are presented for protein classification and for retrieval for three protein families. For the three families, we obtained an area under the curve for precision and recall ranging from 0.6494 (without residue co-occurrences) to 0.6683 (with residue co-occurrences). Large-scale screening using two other protein families placed related family members at the top of the rank, with a number of uncharacterized proteins also retrieved. Comparative results with other proposed methods are included.
Shining a Light on Intestinal Traffic
Authors: Murphy Carola T. , Nally Kenneth , Shanahan Fergus , Melgar Silvia
Published: November 2011

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is associated with enhanced leukocyte infiltration to the gut, which is directly linked to the clinical aspects of these disorders. Thus, leukocyte trafficking is a major target for IBD therapy. Past and emerging techniques to study leukocyte trafficking bothin vitroandin vivohave expanded our knowledge of the leukocyte migration process and the role of inhibitors. Various strategies have been employed to target chemokine- and integrin-ligand interactions within the multistep adhesion cascade and the S1P/S1PR1 axis in leukocyte migration. Though there is an abundance of preclinical data demonstrating efficacy of leukocyte trafficking inhibitors, many have yet to be confirmed in clinical studies. Vigilance for toxicity and further research is required into this complex and emerging area of IBD therapy.
The Role of Surgery, Radiosurgery and Whole Brain Radiation Therapy in the Management of Patients with Metastatic Brain Tumors
Authors: Ellis Thomas L. , Neal Matthew T. , Chan Michael D.
Published: November 2011

Brain tumors constitute the most common intracranial tumor. Management of brain metastases has become increasingly complex as patients with brain metastases are living longer and more treatment options develop. The goal of this paper is to review the role of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT), and surgery, in isolation and in combination, in the contemporary treatment of brain metastases. Surgery and SRS both offer management options that may help to optimize therapy in selected patients. WBRT is another option but can lead to late toxicity and suboptimal local control in longer term survivors. Improved prognostic indices will be critical for selecting the best therapies. Further prospective trials are necessary to continue to elucidate factors that will help triage patients to the proper brain-directed therapy for their cancer.
Different Moderators of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy on Subjective and Objective Binge Eating in Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder: A Three-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Castellini Giovanni , Mannucci Edoardo , Lo Sauro Carolina , Benni Laura , Lazzeretti Lisa , Ravaldi Claudia , Rotella Carlo M. , Faravelli Carlo , Ricca Valdo
Published: November 2011

Background: Different studies considered the mechanisms involved in the maintenance of binge eating in bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED), suggesting different pathways. The present 3-year follow-up study evaluated the relationships between psychopathological variables, and objective and subjective binge eating episodes in the two syndromes. Methods: 85 BN and 133 BED patients were studied. Objective and subjective binge eating, and psychopathological data were collected in a face-to-face interview, and by means of different self-reported questionnaires. The same assessment was repeated at baseline (T0), at the end of an individual cognitive-behavioral treatment (T1), and 3 years after the end of treatment (T2). Results: At baseline, BN and BED patients showed different emotions associated with binge eating: anger/frustration for BN and depression for BED patients. Objective binge eating frequency reduction across time was associated with lower impulsivity and shape concern in BN patients, and with lower emotional eating and depressive symptoms in BED patients. Lower subjective binge eating frequency at baseline predicted recovery, in both BN and BED patients. Recovery was associated with lower impulsivity and body shape concern at baseline for BN patients, and lower depression and emotional eating for BED patients. Conclusions: Eating psychopathology, psychiatric comorbidity, impulsivity and emotional eating have a different pattern of association with objective and subjective binge eating in BN and BED patients, and they act as different moderators of treatment. A different target of intervention for these two syndromes might be taken into account, and subjective binge eating deserves an accurate assessment.
Erdheim-Chester Disease Presenting with Pneumothorax
Authors: Yamaguchi Masafumi , Shiota Tetsuhiro , Kobashi Yoichiro
Published: November 2011

Erdheim-Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis most commonly characterized by symmetrical skeletal involvement and may present with pulmonary involvement leading to chronically progressive pulmonary symptoms. Characteristics on chest radiography include non-specific findings of diffuse interstitial and pleural thickening, micronodules, ground-glass opacities and parenchymal condensation as a result of infiltration by lipid-laden histiocytes. We present the case of a 50-year-old man with ECD presenting with acute pulmonary symptoms due to rupture of a large cystic lesion with resultant pneumothorax. He was brought by ambulance to our hospital, complaining of acute anterior chest pain and severe dyspnea. Chest radiography showed right-sided pneumothorax with a collapsed lung, a large, left-sided cystic lesion in the upper lung field and accentuated interstitial markings. Bullectomy and surgical biopsy were performed, demonstrating histologically histiocytic infiltrates that were strongly positive for CD68, but negative for S-100 protein and CD1a. Subsequent systemic examinations indicated widespread symmetrical skeletal involvement, leading to a definitive diagnosis of ECD.
Mendelian Randomization Study of Interleukin-6 in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: van Durme Yannick M.T.A. , Lahousse Lies , Verhamme Katia M.C. , Stolk Lisette , Eijgelsheim Mark , Loth Daan W. , Uitterlinden Andre G. , Breteler Monique M.B. , Joos Guy F. , Hofman Albert , Stricker Bruno H.C. , Brusselle Guy G.
Published: November 2011

Background: Cross-sectional studies have demonstrated that increased levels of interleukin-6 (IL6) are present in the airways and blood samples of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Objectives: To investigate the association between IL6 and the risk of COPD using a Mendelian randomization approach. Methods: Eight common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the region of the IL6 gene were genotyped using both TaqMan and Illumina in the Rotterdam Study, a prospective population-based cohort study consisting of 7,983 participants aged 55 years or older, including 928 COPD patients. At baseline, blood was drawn in a random sample of 714 subjects to measure the IL6 plasma level. Analysis of variance, logistic regression, and Cox proportional hazard models – adjusted for age, gender, pack years, and BMI – were used for analyses. Results: High levels of IL6 (>2.4 pg/ml, the highest tertile) were associated with a three-fold increased risk of developing COPD, in comparison to low levels (<1.4 pg/ml, the lowest tertile). The rs2056576 SNP was associated with a 10% increase in the risk of COPD per additional T allele. However, the association was no longer significant after adjustment. No association was found with other common SNPs in the IL6 gene and COPD. Conclusions: Although increased IL6 plasma levels at baseline are associated with the risk of developing COPD during follow-up, there was no strong evidence for an association between common variation in the IL6 gene and the risk of COPD.
The 22q13.3 Deletion Syndrome (Phelan-McDermid Syndrome)
Authors: Phelan K. , McDermid H.E.
Published: November 2011

The 22q13.3 deletion syndrome, also known as Phelan-McDermid syndrome, is a contiguous gene disorder resulting from deletion of the distal long arm of chromosome 22. In addition to normal growth and a constellation of minor dysmorphic features, this syndrome is characterized by neurological deficits which include global developmental delay, moderate to severe intellectual impairment, absent or severely delayed speech, and neonatal hypotonia. In addition, more than 50% of patients show autism or autistic-like behavior, and therefore it can be classified as a syndromic form of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The differential diagnosis includes Angelman syndrome, velocardiofacial syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and FG syndrome. Over 600 cases of 22q13.3 deletion syndrome have been documented. Most are terminal deletions of ∼100 kb to >9 Mb, resulting from simple deletions, ring chromosomes, and unbalanced translocations. Almost all of these deletions include the gene SHANK3 which encodes a scaffold protein in the postsynaptic densities of excitatory synapses, connecting membrane-bound receptors to the actin cytoskeleton. Two mouse knockout models and cell culture experiments show that SHANK3 is involved in the structure and function of synapses and support the hypothesis that the majority of 22q13.3 deletion syndrome neurological defects are due to haploinsufficiency of SHANK3, although other genes in the region may also play a role in the syndrome. The molecular connection to ASD suggests that potential future treatments may involve modulation of metabotropic glutamate receptors.
Improved Left Ventricular Mass Quantification With Partial Voxel Interpolation
Authors: Codella Noel C.F. , Lee Hae Yeoun , Fieno David S. , Chen Debbie W. , Hurtado-Rua Sandra , Kochar Minisha , Finn John Paul , Judd Robert , Goyal Parag , Schenendorf Jesse , Cham Matthew D. , Devereux Richard B. , Prince Martin , Wang Yi , Weinsaft Jonathan W.
Published: November 2011

Background—

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) typically quantifies LV mass (LVM) by means of manual planimetry (MP), but this approach is time-consuming and does not account for partial voxel components— myocardium admixed with blood in a single voxel. Automated segmentation (AS) can account for partial voxels, but this has not been used for LVM quantification. This study used automated CMR segmentation to test the influence of partial voxels on quantification of LVM.

Methods and Results—

LVM was quantified by AS and MP in 126 consecutive patients and 10 laboratory animals undergoing CMR. AS yielded both partial voxel (AS
PV
) and full voxel (AS
FV
) measurements. Methods were independently compared with LVM quantified on echocardiography (echo) and an ex vivo standard of LVM at necropsy. AS quantified LVM in all patients, yielding a 12-fold decrease in processing time versus MP (0:21±0:04 versus 4:18±1:02 minutes;
P
<0.001). AS
FV
mass (136±35 g) was slightly lower than MP (139±35; Δ=3±9 g,
P
<0.001). Both methods yielded similar proportions of patients with LV remodeling (
P
=0.73) and hypertrophy (
P
=1.00). Regarding partial voxel segmentation, AS
PV
yielded higher LVM (159±38 g) than MP (Δ=20±10 g) and AS
FV
(Δ=23±6 g, both
P
<0.001), corresponding to relative increases of 14% and 17%. In multivariable analysis, magnitude of difference between AS
PV
and AS
FV
correlated with larger voxel size (partial
r
=0.37,
P
<0.001) even after controlling for LV chamber volume (
r
=0.28,
P
=0.002) and total LVM (
r
=0.19,
P
=0.03). Among patients, AS
PV
yielded better agreement with echo (Δ=20±25 g) than did AS
FV
(Δ=43±24 g) or MP (Δ=40±22 g, both
P
<0.001). Among laboratory animals, AS
PV
and ex vivo results were similar (Δ=1±3 g,
P
=0.3), whereas AS
FV
(6±3 g,
P
<0.001) and MP (4±5 g,
P
=0.02) yielded small but significant differences with LVM at necropsy.

Conclusions—

Automated segmentation of myocardial partial voxels yields a 14–17% increase in LVM versus full voxel segmentation, with increased differences correlated with lower spatial resolution. Partial voxel segmentation yields improved CMR agreement with echo and necropsy-verified LVM.
The Diagnostic Value of Physical Examination and Additional Testing in Primary Care Patients With Suspected Heart Failure
Authors: Kelder Johannes C. , Cramer Maarten J. , van Wijngaarden Jan , van Tooren Rob , Mosterd Arend , Moons Karel G.M. , Lammers Jan W. , Cowie Martin R. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Hoes Arno W.
Published: November 2011

Background—

Early diagnosis of nonacute heart failure is crucial because prompt initiation of evidence-based treatment can prevent or slow down further progression. To diagnose new-onset heart failure in primary care is challenging.

Methods and Results—

This is a cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study with external validation. Seven hundred twenty-one consecutive patients suspected of new-onset heart failure underwent standardized diagnostic work-up including chest x-ray, spirometry, ECG, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) measurement, and echocardiography in specially equipped outpatient diagnostic heart failure clinics. The presence of heart failure was determined by an outcome panel using the initial clinical data and 6-month follow-up data, blinded to biomarker data. Of the 721 patients, 207 (28.7%) had heart failure. The combination of 3 items from history (age, coronary artery disease, and loop diuretic use) plus 6 from physical examination (pulse rate and regularity, displaced apex beat, rales, heart murmur, and increased jugular vein pressure) showed independent diagnostic value (c-statistic 0.83). NT-proBNP was the most powerful supplementary diagnostic test, increasing the c-statistic to 0.86 and resulting in net reclassification improvement of 69% (
P
<0.0001). A simplified diagnostic rule was applied to 2 external validation datasets, resulting in c- statistics of 0.95 and 0.88, confirming the results.

Conclusions—

In this study, we estimated the quantitative diagnostic contribution of elements of the history and physical examination in the diagnosis of heart failure in primary care outpatients, which may help to improve clinical decision making. The largest additional quantitative diagnostic contribution to those elements was provided by measurement of NT-proBNP. For daily practice, a diagnostic rule was derived that may be useful to quantify the probability of heart failure in patients with new symptoms suggestive of heart failure.
Survival After Open Versus Endovascular Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm Repair in an Observational Study of the Medicare Population
Authors: Goodney Philip P. , Travis Lori , Lucas F. Lee , Fillinger Mark F. , Goodman David C. , Cronenwett Jack L. , Stone David H.
Published: November 2011

Background—

The goal of this study was to describe short- and long-term survival of patients with descending thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs) after open and endovascular repair (TEVAR).

Methods and Results—

Using Medicare claims from 1998 to 2007, we analyzed patients who underwent repair of intact and ruptured TAA, identified from a combination of procedural and diagnostic
International Classification of Disease
, ninth revision, codes. Our main outcome measure was mortality, defined as perioperative mortality (death occurring before hospital discharge or within 30 days), and 5-year survival, from life-table analysis. We examined outcomes across repair type (open repair or TEVAR) in crude, adjusted (for age, sex, race, procedure year, and Charlson comorbidity score), and propensity-matched cohorts. Overall, we studied 12 573 Medicare patients who underwent open repair and 2732 patients who underwent TEVAR. Perioperative mortality was lower in patients undergoing TEVAR compared with open repair for both intact (6.1% versus 7.1%;
P
=0.07) and ruptured (28% versus 46%;
P
<0.0001) TAA. However, patients with intact TAA selected for TEVAR had significantly worse survival than open patients at 1 year (87% for open, 82% for TEVAR;
P
=0.001) and 5 years (72% for open; 62% for TEVAR;
P
=0.001). Furthermore, in adjusted and propensity-matched cohorts, patients selected for TEVAR had worse 5-year survival than patients selected for open repair.

Conclusions—

Although perioperative mortality is lower with TEVAR, Medicare patients selected for TEVAR have worse long-term survival than patients selected for open repair. The results of this observational study suggest that higher-risk patients are being offered TEVAR and that some do not benefit on the basis of long-term survival. Future work is needed to identify TEVAR candidates unlikely to benefit from repair.
Immune Activation Resulting From NKG2D/Ligand Interaction Promotes Atherosclerosis
Authors: Xia Mingcan , Guerra Nadia , Sukhova Galina K. , Yang Kangkang , Miller Carla K. , Shi Guo-Ping , Raulet David H. , Xiong Na
Published: November 2011

Background—

The interplay between the immune system and abnormal metabolic conditions sustains and propagates a vicious feedback cycle of chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction that is critical for atherosclerotic progression. It is well established that abnormal metabolic conditions, such as dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia, cause various cellular stress responses that induce tissue inflammation and immune cell activation, which in turn exacerbate the metabolic dysfunction. However, molecular events linking these processes are not well understood.

Methods and Results—

Tissues and organs of humans and mice with hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia were examined for expression of ligands for NKG2D, a potent immune-activating receptor expressed by several types of immune cells, and the role of NKG2D in atherosclerosis and metabolic diseases was probed with the use of mice lacking NKG2D or by blocking NKG2D with monoclonal antibodies. NKG2D ligands were upregulated in multiple organs, particularly atherosclerotic aortas and inflamed livers. Ligand upregulation was induced in vitro by abnormal metabolites associated with metabolic dysfunctions. Using apolipoprotein E–deficient mouse models, we demonstrated that preventing NKG2D functions resulted in a dramatic reduction in plaque formation, suppressed systemic and organ inflammation mediated by multiple immune cell types, and alleviated abnormal metabolic conditions.

Conclusions—

The NKG2D/ligand interaction is a critical molecular link in the vicious cycle of chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction that promotes atherosclerosis and might be a useful target for therapeutic intervention in the disease.
Pacific Shallow Meridional Overturning Circulation in a Warming Climate
Authors: Wang Daiwei , Cane Mark A.
Published: November 2011

By analyzing a set of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 3 (CMIP3) climate model projections of the twenty-first century, it is found that the shallow meridional overturning of the Pacific subtropical cells (STCs) show contrasting trends between two hemispheres in a warming climate. The strength of STCs and equivalently the STC surface-layer transport tend to be weakening (strengthening) in the Northern (Southern) Hemisphere as a response to large-scale surface wind changes over the tropical Pacific. The STC pycnocline transport convergence into the equatorial Pacific Ocean from higher latitudes shows a robust weakening in the twenty-first century. This weakening is mainly through interior pathways consistent with the relaxation of the zonal pycnocline tilt, whereas the transport change through western boundary pathways is small and not consistent across models. It is found that the change of the western boundary pycnocline transport is strongly affected by the shoaling of the pycnocline base. In addition, there is a robust weakening of the Indonesian Throughflow (ITF) transport in a warming climate. In the multimodel ensemble mean, the response to greenhouse warming of the upper-ocean mass balance associated with the STCs is such that the weakening of the equatorward pycnocline transport convergence is balanced by a weakening of the poleward surface-layer transport divergence and the ITF transport of similar amounts.
The Professionalization of Political Communication? A Longitudinal Analysis of Dutch Election Campaign Posters
Authors: Vliegenthart Rens
Published: November 2011

This article provides an analysis of Dutch election posters in the period from 1946 to 2006. Based on the literature on the professionalization of political communication, several hypotheses are formulated regarding changes in textual and visual elements of those posters. These hypotheses focus on over-time changes in the presence and prominence of the party leader and party logo’s as well as references to specific political issues and ideology in these posters. In total, 225 posters for 23 parties in 19 elections are analyzed. Results reveal that changes in visual elements are in line with the hypotheses, with an increased use of party logo, an increasing presence and prominence of the party leader, and a decreasing focus on ideology. The textual parts of the posters, however, show no or opposite trends. The results call for a more nuanced scientific treatment of the consequences of the professionalization of political communication and demonstrate the necessity to analyze both visual and textual elements of political parties’ communication.
Comparison of N‐Acetyltransferase‐2 Enzyme Genotype‐Phenotype and Xanthine Oxidase Enzyme Activity Between Swedes and Koreans
Authors: Djordjevic Natasa , Carrillo Juan Antonio , Roh Hyung‐Keun , Karlsson Sara , Ueda Nobuhisa , Bertilsson Leif , Aklillu Eleni
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to compare xanthine oxidase (XO) and N‐acetyltransferase‐2 (NAT2) genotype and phenotype between Swedes (n = 113) and Koreans (n = 150), as well as to investigate the effect of sex, smoking, age, and oral contraceptive (OC) use on enzyme activities, using caffeine as a probe. XO and NAT2 activities were estimated by 1U/(1U+1X) and AFMU/(AFMU+1X+1U) urinary ratios, respectively. Participants were genotyped for 191G>A, 341T>C, 590G>A, and 857G>A NAT2 polymorphisms. There was no significant difference in XO activity between Swedes and Koreans. In Swedes, higher XO activity was observed in women (P < .003). There were significant differences in NAT2 genotype and phenotype between Swedes and Koreans. Koreans display significantly higher frequency of NAT2 fast acetylator genotype (89%), whereas the slow acetylator genotype is predominant (62%) in Swedes (P < .0001). Significantly higher NAT2 activity was observed in Koreans compared to Swedes (P < .0001). Having the same NAT2 fast acetylator genotype, Koreans display higher enzyme activity than Swedes (P < .004). OC use significantly increased NAT2 activity in Swedish women. In conclusion, Koreans display higher NAT2 activity than Swedes regardless of NAT2 genotype. Ethnicity, OC use, and genotype determine NAT2 activity, whereas sex is the only determinant of XO activity.
Hygrothermoelastic free vibration response of laminated composite plates resting on elastic foundations with random system properties
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Patil HS , Lal A
Published: November 2011

This article presents the hygrothermal effects on the free vibration of laminated composite plates resting on a two-parameter Winkler and Pasternak elastic foundations with random system properties using micromechanical model. System properties such as material properties, hygroscopic expansion coefficients, thermal expansion coefficients and foundation stiffness parameters are modeled as independent basic random variables which are affected by the variation in temperature and moisture based on a micromechanical model of a laminate for accurate prediction of system behavior. A C0 finite element method based on higher-order shear deformation theory has been used for deriving the standard eigenvalue problem. A Taylor series-based mean-centered first-order perturbation technique is used to find mean and standard deviation of the natural frequency subjected to uniform moisture concentration and temperature rise, plate aspect ratio, total number of plies, fiber orientations and elastic foundation parameters with different boundary support under hygrothermal environmental conditions. Typical numerical results have been validated with those available in the literature and independent Monte Carlo simulation.
Organic–inorganic nanocomposites for shape memory effects
Authors: Bae Cha Young , Park Hong Chae , Kim Byung Kyu
Published: November 2011

Polyurethane (PU)–silica nanocomposites were synthesized by sol–gel reactions between the surface silanol groups of fumed silica and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) terminated PU with a broad range of silica contents (1–5%) with two different molecular weights of PU. It was found that the silica particles that were incorporated into the polymer chains were well dispersed in the PU matrix and acted as multifunctional cross-links and reinforcing fillers; in addition, the silica particles augmented the initial and rubbery moduli, yield, and break strengths, as well as the glass transition temperature. Moreover, 98–99% shape fixity and shape recovery with minimum cyclic hysteresis were obtained with only 1% silica particle loading.
Theoretical analysis of a special purpose miniature machine tool with parallel kinematics architecture: free-leg hexapod
Authors: Allen J M , Axinte D A , Pringle T
Published: November 2011

This paper introduces a unique hexapod-type miniature machine tool. This machine, referred to as Free-leg Hexapod (FreeHex), is intended for in-situ maintenance of large mechanical systems. In the investigated machine design, the positions of the joints at the lower ends of the extensible actuators can be varied in order to fit the machine onto different workpieces. The high flexibility of this machine design greatly enhances its versatility, but also increases the variability of its kinematics. A theoretical analysis of this machine design is presented including a full inverse kinematics model which can overcome the immense flexibility of this design. The paper goes on to present a method for work volume calculation based on the inverse kinematics model, motion limits of the machine, and collision detection. The variability of the work volume of the FreeHex, depending on its arrangement on a workpiece, is illustrated by a range of work volume plots for different machine set-ups. The impact of machine collisions on the working envelope is also demonstrated by example.
Quantification of press elasticity in the forging of three-dimensional complex shapes
Authors: Lu B , Ou H
Published: November 2011

This paper presents an improved approach to characterize press elastic behaviour and to quantify the effect of press elasticity in the forging of three-dimensional (3D) complex shapes. Using a stiffness matrix formulation, the overall press elasticity is characterized by press elastic deformation and initial clearances of the press guideway. The effect of press elasticity in forging is evaluated by implementing the press stiffness matrix formulation into the 3D forging simulation using a user subroutine. An industrial-based 3D blade forging case study was carried out to assess the robustness and efficiency of this approach in the forging of 3D complex shapes. Compared with cases without press elasticity, the results show that the press elasticity has less effect on forging force requirements, material deformation, and stress and strain distributions. However, the effect of press elasticity is more apparent on the dimensional and shape accuracy of the forged blade with the initial guideway clearance as a major source for dimensional errors compared with the press elastic deformation. The case study also shows that this approach can be easily implemented for evaluating press tool-related effects in forging simulation and design.
On–off and proportional–integral controller for a morphing wing. Part 1: Actuation mechanism and control design
Authors: Grigorie T L , Popov A V , Botez R M , Mamou M , Mébarki Y
Published: November 2011

The main objective of this research work is the development of an actuation control concept for a new morphing actuation mechanism made of smart materials, which is built from a shape memory alloy (SMA). Two lines of smart actuators were incorporated to a rectangular wing to modify the upper wing surface, made of a flexible skin, with the intention to move the laminar-to-turbulent transition point closer to the wing trailing edge.

After a brief introduction of the morphing wing system architecture and requirements, the actuation lines' design and instrumentation are presented. The integrated controller controls the SMA actuators via an electrical current supply, so that the transducer position can be used to eliminate the deviation between the required values for vertical displacements (corresponding to the optimized airfoils) and their physical values. The final configuration of the integrated controller is a combination of a bi-positional (on–off) controller and a PI (proportional–integral) controller, due to the two heating and cooling phases of the SMA wires' interconnection. This controller must behave like a switch between the cooling and the heating phases, situations where the output current is 0 A, or is controlled by a PI type law. The PI controller for the heating phase is optimally tuned using integral and surface minimum error criteria (Ziegler–Nichols). The controller is numerically tested on the linear identified system in terms of time response, Bode diagram, amplitude and phase stability margins, and root-locus.
Minsky’s financial instability hypothesis, accounting information and the 2007–9 financial crisis in the UK and US
Authors: Barnes Paul
Published: November 2011

This paper examines the financial crisis of 2007–9 in the UK and US in terms of the financial instability hypothesis (FIH), a theory of boom, bust and financial crises. It is shown that in a similar way to the crises of 1866 and 1987 (Barnes, 2007) the FIH provides an important depiction of the 2007–9 crisis and how it came about. However, it does not recognize: (1) the role of accounting information and how it may contribute to boom and bust and be used to change perceptions and mislead; and (2) the likelihood of fraud and financial swindles, all features of the 2007–9 crisis.
A survey on diagnostic methods for automotive engines
Authors: Mohammadpour J , Franchek M , Grigoriadis K
Published: November 2011

Faults affecting automotive engines can potentially lead to increased emissions, increased fuel consumption, or engine damage. These negative impacts may be prevented or at least alleviated if faults can be detected and isolated in advance of a failure. United States Federal and State regulations dictate that automotive engines operate with high-precision onboard diagnosis (OBD) systems that enable the detection of faults, resulting in higher emissions that exceed standard thresholds. In this paper, we survey and discuss the different aspects of fault detection and diagnosis in automotive engine systems. The paper collects some of the efforts made in academia and industry on fault detection and isolation for a variety of component faults, actuator faults, and sensor faults using various data-driven and model-based methods.
A ‘fighting chance’ or fighting dirty? Irregular warfare, Michael Gross and the Spartans
Authors: O’Driscoll Cian
Published: November 2011

Among the most vexed moral issues in contemporary conflict is the matter of whether irregular forces waging wars of national liberation should be expected to abide by the same jus in bello rules as state actors, even though these rules may prejudice their cause. Is it, in other words, reasonable to demand that irregular forces, including guerrilla groups and national liberation movements, should comport themselves like state armies, even in cases where this would stymie their capacity to effectively pursue their military goals? This article examines Michael Gross’s recent provocative response to this question. Taking Article 44 of the 1977 Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions as his point of departure, Gross contends that the laws governing battlefield conduct should be revised to allow irregular forces waging an otherwise just war greater leeway to pursue their cause. Controversially, he extends this concession to the use of qualified terrorist tactics. Focusing on Gross’s use of the notion of a ‘right to a fighting chance’ as a normative grounding for this far-reaching proposition, this article draws on specific historical cases that arose in the context of Ancient Greek warfare to challenge Gross’s position. On a broader note, this article concludes with some remarks to the effect that this foray into the world of Ancient Greek warfare is demonstrative of the critical potential of a historical approach to the ethics of war.
Condom Use During Last Sexual Contact and Last 30 Days in Two Samples of Caribbean Military Personnel
Authors: Hallum-Montes Rachel , D’Souza Rohan , Tavarez Maria Isabel , Manzanero Russell , Dann Grace E. , Chun Helen M. , Anastario Michael P.
Published: November 2011

Condom use during last sexual contact is a survey measure that may be used to inform monitoring and evaluation indicators of recent condom use in populations at risk for HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections, such as the uniformed services. The authors tested for differences in condom use measures that were fielded within separate Biological and Behavioral Surveillance Surveys conducted in the armed forces of two separate nations: the Dominican Republic and Belize. Both surveys included measures of condom use during last sexual contact with specified partners and both surveys included the Risk Behavior Assessment (RBA), which measures specific sexual acts and condom use frequency during a specified time period. In both samples, more than 40% of respondents who reported condom use during last sexual contact with a regular partner also reported engaging in unprotected sex when screened with the RBA. Furthermore, more than 60% of respondents who reported condom use during last sexual encounter with a commercial sex worker also reported engaging in unprotected sex when screened with the RBA. The results carry implications for monitoring and evaluation indicators of large-scale HIV prevention programs. The authors recommend that, when feasible, more in-depth instruments such as the RBA be considered to measure recent condom use in populations of uniformed services personnel.
Depression Over the Adult Life Course for African American Men
Authors: Watkins Daphne C.
Published: November 2011

Rarely are within-group differences among African American men explored in the context of mental health and well-being. Though current conceptual and empirical studies on depression among African American men exists, these studies do not offer a framework that considers how this disorder manifests over the adult life course for African American men. The purpose of this article is to examine the use of an adult life course perspective in understanding the complexity of depression for African American men. The proposed framework underscores six social determinants of depression (socioeconomic status, stressors, racial and masculine identity, kinship and social support, self-esteem and mastery, and access to quality health care) to initiate dialogue about the risk and protective factors that initiate, prolong, and exacerbate depression for African American men. The framework presented here is meant to stimulate discussion about the social determinants that influence depression for African American men to and through adulthood. Implications for the utility and applicability of the framework for researchers and health professionals who work with African American men are discussed.
Innovative Practices in the Spanish Hotel Industry
Authors: Vila Mar , Enz Cathy , Costa Gerard
Published: November 2011

A survey of corporate-level senior research and development managers in twenty-seven of Spain’s largest hotel chains found a general bias toward innovation, as the majority have formal R&D departments and offer rewards for innovative concepts. Considering a framework that includes four types of innovation (i.e., product innovations, process innovations, enhanced knowledge of market, and management innovations), the survey found that the chains focused the greatest innovation efforts on improving management. However, the innovations most frequently mentioned involve enhanced knowledge of the market, including the use of new sales channels and communication improvements. Case studies of four hotel concepts depict innovations intended to be singular, that is, hard to duplicate. NH Hoteles uses its customer data center to segment customers and create targeted communications and special offers; Hoteles Hesperia has allied with Michelin-rated chefs to upgrade its hotel restaurants both in terms of menu and image; Chic&Basic has installed modest-price but high-quality inns in center-city locations that usually host luxury hotels or poor quality guest accommodations; and Marqués de Riscal has developed City of Wine, in the Rioja region of Spain, complete with a Frank Gehry–designed hotel operated by the Starwood Luxury Collection.
Verifying a questionnaire diagnosis of asthma in children using health claims data
Authors: Yang Connie L , To Teresa , Foty Richard G , Stieb David M , Dell Sharon D
Published: November 2011

Background

Childhood asthma prevalence is widely measured by parental proxy report of physician-diagnosed asthma in questionnaires. Our objective was to validate this measure in a North American population.

Methods

The 2884 study participants were a subsample of 5619 school children aged 5 to 9 years from 231 schools participating in the Toronto Child Health Evaluation Questionnaire study in 2006. We compared agreement between "questionnaire diagnosis" and a previously validated "health claims data diagnosis". Sensitivity, specificity and kappa were calculated for the questionnaire diagnosis using the health claims diagnosis as the reference standard.

Results

Prevalence of asthma was 15.7% by questionnaire and 21.4% by health claims data. Questionnaire diagnosis was insensitive (59.0%) but specific (95.9%) for asthma. When children with asthma-related symptoms were excluded, the sensitivity increased (83.6%), and specificity remained high (93.6%).

Conclusions

Our results show that parental report of asthma by questionnaire has low sensitivity but high specificity as an asthma prevalence measure. In addition, children with "asthma-related symptoms" may represent a large fraction of under-diagnosed asthma and they should be excluded from the inception cohort for risk factor studies.
Dysglycemia induces abnormal circadian blood pressure variability
Authors: Kumarasamy Sivarajan , Gopalakrishnan Kathirvel , Kim Dong Hyun , Abraham Nader G , Johnson William D , Joe Bina , Gupta Alok K
Published: November 2011

Background

Prediabetes (PreDM) in asymptomatic adults is associated with abnormal circadian blood pressure variability (abnormal CBPV).

Hypothesis

Systemic inflammation and glycemia influence circadian blood pressure variability.

Methods

Dahl salt-sensitive (S) rats (n = 19) after weaning were fed either an American (AD) or a standard (SD) diet. The AD (high-glycemic-index, high-fat) simulated customary human diet, provided daily overabundant calories which over time lead to body weight gain. The SD (low-glycemic-index, low-fat) mirrored desirable balanced human diet for maintaining body weight. Body weight and serum concentrations for fasting glucose (FG), adipokines (leptin and adiponectin), and proinflammatory cytokines [monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)] were measured. Rats were surgically implanted with C40 transmitters and blood pressure (BP-both systolic; SBP and diastolic; DBP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded by telemetry every 5 minutes during both sleep (day) and active (night) periods. Pulse pressure (PP) was calculated (PP = SBP-DBP).

Results

[mean(SEM)]: The AD fed group displayed significant increase in body weight (after 90 days; p < 0.01). Fasting glucose, adipokine (leptin and adiponectin) concentrations significantly increased (at 90 and 172 days; all p < 0.05), along with a trend for increased concentrations of systemic pro-inflammatory cytokines (MCP-1 and TNF-α) on day 90. The AD fed group, with significantly higher FG, also exhibited significantly elevated circadian (24-hour) overall mean SBP, DBP, PP and HR (all p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These data validate our stated hypothesis that systemic inflammation and glycemia influence circadian blood pressure variability. This study, for the first time, demonstrates a cause and effect relationship between caloric excess, enhanced systemic inflammation, dysglycemia, loss of blood pressure control and abnormal CBPV. Our results provide the fundamental basis for examining the relationship between dysglycemia and perturbation of the underlying mechanisms (adipose tissue dysfunction induced local and systemic inflammation, insulin resistance and alteration of adipose tissue precursors for the renin-aldosterone-angiotensin system) which generate abnormal CBPV.