bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASSOCIATED PHOTONS AND NEW PHYSICS SIGNALS AT LINEAR COLLIDERS
Authors: RAI SANTOSH KUMAR
Published: February 2008

We study signals for beyond standard model physics and consider the virtues of single photon signals or associated photons in the final states in identifying different scenarios of new physics models in a very efficient and novel way.
A NON-GEODESIC MOTION IN THE R-1 THEORY OF GRAVITY TUNED WITH OBSERVATIONS
Authors: CORDA CHRISTIAN
Published: February 2008

In the general picture of high order theories of gravity, recently, the R-1 theory has been analyzed in two different frameworks. In this letter a third context is added, considering an explicit coupling between the R-1 function of the Ricci scalar and the matter Lagrangian. The result is a non-geodesic motion of test particles which, in principle, could be connected with Dark Matter and Pioneer anomaly problems.
FINGERPRINT FEATURE EXTRACTION VIA CNN WITH VON NEUMANN NEIGHBORHOOD
Authors: LOU YIJUN , CHEN FANGYUE , GUAN JUNBIAO
Published: February 2008

In this paper, we study fingerprint feature extraction via CNN with Von Neumann neighborhood. The extraction was implemented by using CNN with nine input variables, and we find that the process could also be implemented with only five variables, and an easier algorithm without compromising the effectiveness. According to the CNN model with five input variables and the corresponding CNN gene bank done by Chen et al. [2006, Http1], we can determine the CNN gene easily. Simultaneously, we also find some results in one of the references are incorrect.
EXISTENCE AND STABILITY OF MULTIBUMP SOLUTIONS OF AN INTEGRAL-DIFFERENTIAL EQUATION
Authors: CHAN WHEI-CHING C. , LIN SU-SHING
Published: February 2008

We consider the existence and stability of multibump solutions of a class of integral-differential equations modeling a single layer of homogeneous neural network with both excitatory and inhibitory neurons. The existence results are obtained by combining several shifts of a one-bump solution. Dynamical properties are obtained by considering the equation as an infinite-dimensional dynamical system and the spectrum of multibump solutions in terms of the weight functions. The center manifold theory and its foliation are used to show exponential stability with asymptotic phase for multibump solutions. Numerical results for some possible bifurcation phenomena are also presented.
AN APPROACH TO GROUP DECISION MAKING BASED ON INCOMPLETE FUZZY PREFERENCE RELATIONS
Authors: JIANG YAN-PING , FAN ZHI-PING
Published: February 2008

In this paper, a new approach is proposed to solve group decision making (GDM) problems where the preference information on alternatives provided by decision makers (DMs) is represented in incomplete fuzzy preference relations. In order to make the collective opinion close each decision maker's opinion as near as possible, an optimization model is constructed to integrate the incomplete fuzzy preference relations and to compute the collective ranking values of alternatives. The ranking of alternatives or selection of the most desirable alternative(s) is directly obtained from the derived collective ranking values. A numerical example is also used to illustrate the applicability of the proposed approach.
INTERPOLATION OF FUZZY DATA BY USING FUZZY SPLINES
Authors: ABBASBANDY S. , EZZATI R. , BEHFOROOZ H.
Published: February 2008

In this paper we define a new set of spline functions called “Fuzzy Splines” to interpolate fuzzy data. Numerical examples will be presented to illustrate the differences between of using our spline and other interpolations that have been studied before.
INTERVAL METHODS IN KNOWLEDGE REPRESENTATION
Authors: Kreinovich Vladik
Published: February 2008

This section is maintained by Vladik Kreinovich. Please send your abstracts (or copies of papers that you want to see reviewed here) to vladik@utep.edu, or by regular mail to: V. Kreinovich, Department of Computer Science, University of Texas, El Paso, TX 79968, USA.
DOUBLE HOPF BIFURCATION FOR STUART–LANDAU SYSTEM WITH NONLINEAR DELAY FEEDBACK AND DELAY-DEPENDENT PARAMETERS
Authors: MA SUQI , LU QISHAO , HOGAN S. JOHN
Published: February 2008

A Stuart–Landau system under delay feedback control with the nonlinear delay-dependent parameter e-pτ is investigated. A geometrical demonstration method combined with theoretical analysis is developed so as to effectively solve the characteristic equation. Multi-stable regions are separated from unstable regions by allocations of Hopf bifurcation curves in (p,τ) plane. Some weak resonant and non-resonant oscillation phenomena induced by double Hopf bifurcation are discovered. The normal form for double Hopf bifurcation is deduced. The local dynamical behavior near double Hopf bifurcation points are also clarified in detail by using the center manifold method. Some states of two coexisting stable periodic solutions are verified, and some torus-broken procedures are also traced.
GLOBAL ATTRACTIVITY AND PERMANENCE OF A STAGE-STRUCTURED PEST MANAGEMENT SI MODEL WITH TIME DELAY AND DISEASED PESTS IMPULSIVE TRANSMISSION
Authors: JIAO JIANJUN , CHEN LANSUN
Published: February 2008

In this work, we consider a stage-structured pest management SI model with time delay and diseased pests impulsive transmission. Sufficient conditions which guarantee the global attractivity of pest-extinction periodic solution and permanence of the system are obtained. We also prove that all solutions of the system are uniformly ultimately bounded. Our results provide reliable tactic basis for the practical pest management.
WHAT CONNECTION TOPOLOGY PROHIBIT CHAOS IN CONTINUOUS TIME NETWORKS?
Authors: YANG XIAO-SONG , YUAN QUAN , WANG LIN
Published: February 2008

In this paper, we are concerned with two interesting problems in the dynamics of neural networks. What connection topology will prohibit chaotic behavior in a continuous time neural network (NN). To what extent is a continuous time neural network (NN) described by continuous ordinary differential equations simple enough yet still able to exhibit chaos? We study these problems in the context of the classical neural networks with three neurons, which can be described by three-dimensional autonomous ordinary differential equations. We first consider the case where there is no direct interconnection between the first neuron and the third neuron. We then discuss the case where each pair of neurons has a direct connection. We show that the existence of the directed loop in connection topology is necessary for chaos to occur.
FUZZY LINEAR PROGRAMMING APPROACH TO MULTI-ATTRIBUTE DECISION-MAKING WITH LINGUISTIC VARIABLES AND INCOMPLETE INFORMATION
Authors: LI DENG-FENG , SUN TAO
Published: February 2008

The aim of this paper is to develop a new fuzzy linear programming technique for solving multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) problems with incomplete weight preference information under fuzzy environments. In this methodology, linguistic variables are used to capture fuzziness in decision information and decision-making processes by means of a fuzzy decision matrix. Consistency and inconsistency indices are defined on the basis of preference relations between alternatives given by the decision maker under uncertain environments. Each alternative is assessed on the basis of its distance to a fuzzy ideal solution (FIS) which is unknown a priori. Then the FIS and the weights of attributes are estimated using a new linear programming model based upon the consistency and inconsistency indices defined. The fuzzy distance of each alternative to the FIS can be calculated to determine the ranking order of all alternatives. An extended illustrative example on the selection of air-fighters is presented to demonstrate the implementation process of this methodology. The methodology proposed in this paper can deal with MADM problems under not only fuzzy environments but also crisp environments. Also it has been proven that different weight information structures may result in different final decision results.
CONGRUENCES FOR MODULAR FORMS OF NON-POSITIVE WEIGHT
Authors: COOPER YAIM , WAGE NICHOLAS , WANG IRENA
Published: February 2008

In this paper, we consider modular forms f(z) whose q-series expansions ∑b(n)qn have coefficients in a localized ring of algebraic integers [Formula: see text]. Extending results of Serre and Ono, we show that if f has non-positive weight, a congruence of the form b(ℓn + a) ≡ 0 (mod ν), where ν is a place over ℓ in [Formula: see text], can hold for only finitely many primes ℓ ≥ 5. To obtain this, we establish an effective bound on ℓ in terms of the weight and the structure of f(z).
EFFECTIVE LOWER BOUND FOR THE VARIANCE OF DISTRIBUTION OF PRIMES IN ARITHMETIC PROGRESSIONS
Authors: KNAFO EMMANUEL
Published: February 2008

Through a refinement for the estimation of the effect of Siegel zeros, we show how to avoid the use of Siegel's theorem in order to obtain the first effective lower bound for the variance of distribution of primes in arithmetic progressions.
A POLYNOMIAL VARIANT OF A PROBLEM OF DIOPHANTUS FOR PURE POWERS
Authors: DUJELLA ANDREJ , FUCHS CLEMENS , LUCA FLORIAN
Published: February 2008

In this paper, we prove that there does not exist a set of 11 polynomials with coefficients in a field of characteristic 0, not all constant, with the property that the product of any two distinct elements plus 1 is a perfect square. Moreover, we prove that there does not exist a set of 5 polynomials with the property that the product of any two distinct elements plus 1 is a perfect kth power with k ≥ 7. Combining these results, we get an absolute upper bound for the size of a set with the property that the product of any two elements plus 1 is a pure power.
ON SOME CLASSES OF PERMUTATION POLYNOMIALS
Authors: AKBARY AMIR , ALARIC SEAN , WANG QIANG
Published: February 2008

Let p be a prime and q = pm. We investigate permutation properties of polynomials P(x) = xr + xr+s + ⋯ + xr+ks (0 < r < q - 1, 0 < s < q - 1, and k ≥ 0) over a finite field 𝔽q. More specifically, we construct several classes of permutation polynomials of this form over 𝔽q. We also count the number of permutation polynomials in each class.
Rheology of the Lower Crust and Upper Mantle: Evidence from Rock Mechanics, Geodesy, and Field Observations
Authors: Bürgmann Roland , Dresen Georg
Published: February 2008

Rock-mechanics experiments, geodetic observations of postloading strain transients, and micro- and macrostructural studies of exhumed ductile shear zones provide complementary views of the style and rheology of deformation deep in Earth's crust and upper mantle. Overall, results obtained in small-scale laboratory experiments provide robust constraints on deformation mechanisms and viscosities at the natural laboratory conditions. Geodetic inferences of the viscous strength of the upper mantle are consistent with flow of mantle rocks at temperatures and water contents determined from surface heat-flow, seismic, and mantle xenolith studies. Laboratory results show that deformation mechanisms and rheology strongly vary as a function of stress, grain size, and fluids. Field studies reveal a strong tendency for deformation in the lower crust and uppermost mantle in and adjacent to fault zones to localize into systems of discrete shear zones with strongly reduced grain size and strength. Deformation mechanisms and rheology may vary over short spatial (shear zone) and temporal (earthquake cycle) scales.
The Cordilleran Ribbon Continent of North America
Authors: Johnston Stephen T.
Published: February 2008

The North American Cordilleran Orogen is the result of a two-stage process: (a) Triassic-Jurassic accretion within Panthalassa forming SAYBIA, a composite ribbon continent, and (b) Late Cretaceous collision of SAYBIA with North America. This model requires that a large portion of the continental foreland of the orogen is exotic. The exotic continental component of SAYBIA, Cassiar Platform, is distinguished from the autochthon on the basis of its (a) Triassic Eurasian fauna; (b) involvement in a major Late Triassic-Early Jurassic orogenic event; and (c) young, in part Grenvillian basement and mantle. A mid-Cretaceous magmatic arc records west-dipping subduction beneath the east-margin of SAYBIA. The related accretionary prism consists of imbricated shale, chert, and deep-water limestones (the Medial Basin) and overlies an isotopically juvenile mantle domain. Carbonatite complexes delineate the cryptic suture separating SAYBIA and the autochthon. Paleomagnetic and paleobotanical data place SAYBIA 2000 km to the south relative to the autochthon at 80 Ma. Late Cretaceous thrust belt development records transpression between the north-moving ribbon continent and the autochthon. Pinning against the Okhotsk-Chukotka arc in Siberia buckled SAYBIA, giving rise to the Alaskan promontory.
Mice with chronically increased circulating ghrelin develop age-related glucose intolerance
Authors: Reed Jacquelyn A. , Benoit Stephen C. , Pfluger Paul T. , Tschöp Matthias H. , D'Alessio David A. , Seeley Randy J.
Published: February 2008

Ghrelin is a gut peptide that stimulates food intake and increases body fat mass when administered centrally or peripherally. In this study, ghrelin was overexpressed in neurons using the neuron-specific enolase (NSE) promoter sequences and mouse ghrelin cDNA (NSE-Ghr). Ghrelin expression in NSE-Ghr brain tissues was increased compared with wild-type mice. Ghrelin expression was also increased to a much smaller extent in liver of these mice, but mRNA levels in stomach or duodenum did not differ from wild-type mice. Body weight and composition was analyzed in two lines of NSE-Ghr mice, one line with increased circulating bioactive ghrelin (L43) and one line without (L73). No increases in body weight, food intake, or fat mass were found. Energy expenditure was measured in L43 mice and did not differ from wild-type controls, whereas locomotor activity was increased in NSE-Ghr mice. Young NSE-Ghr mice had normal glucose tolerance; however, L43 NSE-Ghr mice, but not L73 mice, developed glucose intolerance at 32 wk of age. Despite the impaired glucose tolerance in L43 mice, insulin levels did not differ from those of wild-type mice. These findings suggest a role for ghrelin in age-associated impairments of glucose homeostasis.
Calciotropic and Magnesiotropic TRP Channels
Authors: Hoenderop Joost G. J. , Bindels René J. M.
Published: February 2008

Significant progress has been made into our understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for Ca2+and Mg2+homeostasis. Members of the transient receptor potential channel (TRP) superfamily proved essential to the maintenance of divalent cation levels by regulating their absorption from renal and intestinal lumina. This review highlights the molecular and functional aspects of these new calciotropic and magnesiotropic TRPs in health and disease.
β-Arrestins: Multifunctional Cellular Mediators
Authors: Barki-Harrington Liza , Rockman Howard A.
Published: February 2008

Initially thought to play a role only in G-protein-coupled receptor desensitization, β-arrestins are ascribed with new roles such as scaffolding and signaling proteins by their own right. This review explores the many functions of β-arrestins, with an emphasis on their recently identified role as regulators of receptor signaling.
Tumor Formation in Nude Mice Inoculated with Cultured Human Epithelial Cells Co-Expressing Epstein-Barr Virus Latent Membrane Protein 1 and Bcl-2
Authors: Lu John Jenn-Yenn , Lay Jong-Ding
Published: February 2008

Aims: To examine the tumor-forming in nude mice of human epithelial cells co-expressed Bcl-2 and EBV LMP-1 ability, the phenotype of tumor cells and their expression of oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes. Methods: Following an in vivo tumorigenesis test in nude mice, the phenotype and growth properties of tumor cells were observed. Levels of expression of Bcl-2, and EBV LMP-1, and of onco- and tumor-suppressor proteins were detected by Western blot assay. Results: Human epithelial cells co-expressing Bcl-2 and EBV LMP-1 can form tumors in nude mice. Tumors appeared 48–65 days postinoculation in 6 of 10 nude mice tested but not in mice given Bcl-2-positive (0/5), LMP-1-positive (0/5) and RHEK-1 control (0/5) cells. Levels of c-myc protein were upregulated by LMP-1 but were not affected by Bcl-2 in this cell background; screening for other cellular oncogene and tumor suppressor gene products showed no change. Conclusion: The complementary effects of EBV LMP-1 and Bcl-2 in human epithelial cells resulted in tumor formation in nude mice but did not affect the expression of onco- and tumor suppressor proteins except for elevated c-myc. These findings suggest that LMP-1 and Bcl-2 can contribute together to the formation of EBV-associated epithelial cell tumors.
The Noncompetitive Antagonism of Histamine H1 Receptors Expressed in Chinese Hamster Ovary Cells by Olopatadine Hydrochloride: Its Potency and Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Matsumoto Yuichi , Funahashi Jun , Mori Kiyotoshi , Hayashi Kozue , Yano Hiroshi
Published: February 2008

Calcium responses to various concentrations of histamine were monitored in Chinese hamster ovary cells stably expressing the human histamine H1 receptor. The effects of various histamine H1 receptor antagonists on the dose-response curve for histamine were evaluated. Olopatadine hydrochloride (olopatadine) inhibited the histamine-induced maximum response (pD2’: 7.5) but had insignificant effects on histamine EC50 values. This noncompetitive property exhibited by olopatadine, which was also observed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, was the most striking among the antihistamines tested in this study. The geometrical isomer of olopatadine (E-isomer), which had a similar binding affinity to the histamine H1 receptor as olopatadine, showed a mixed antagonistic profile (competitive and noncompetitive). These results indicate that the geometry around the double bond in the dimethylaminopropylidene group is critical for the potent noncompetitive property of olopatadine. Furthermore, binding mode analyses suggest that the protonated amine group in the dimethylaminopropylidene moiety of olopatadine forms an ionic bond with Glu 181 that is present in the second extracellular loop of the histamine H1 receptor, whereas the amine group of the E-isomer does not. The second extracellular loop in aminergic G-protein-coupled receptors contributes to ligand binding and therefore the noncompetitive property of olopatadine may be explained by the interaction with Glu 181.
Memory Decline and Depressive Symptoms in a Nationally Representative Sample of Older Adults: The Health and Retirement Study (1998–2004)
Authors: González Hector M. , Bowen Mary E. , Fisher Gwenith G.
Published: February 2008

Background/Aims: Inconsistencies in the relationship between depression and cognitive decline may exist because the expected cognitive domains at risk have not been specified in previous study designs. We aimed to examine the relationship between depressive symptoms and verbal episodic memory functioning over time. Methods: Data from a prospective cohort study (Health and Retirement Study; 1998–2004; n = 18,465), a multistage national probability sample of older adults in the United States, were analyzed. Verbal learning and memory of a 10-word list learning task were the main outcomes. Depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression Scale) constituted the main predictor. Results: Depressive symptoms were associated with significantly lower immediate (–0.05; p < 0.001) and delayed (–0.06; p < 0.001) word list recall scores after controlling for demographics and baseline and time-varying cardiovascular disease risks and diseases. Conclusions: In this US national study of older adults, elevated depressive symptoms were associated with declines in episodic learning and memory over time. These associations were little affected by the demographic or medical conditions considered in this study. The results suggest that learning and memory decline may be a long-term feature associated with depressive symptoms among the nation’s older adult population.
Human Embryonic Stem Cells: The Real Challenge for Research as well as for Bioethics Is Still ahead of Us
Authors: Denker Hans-Werner
Published: February 2008

Research on human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) has aroused a lot of controversy for years. Stimulated by recent work on mammalian embryology and new developments in stem cell research, an International Symposium entitled ‘Stem Cell Research: A Challenge for Embryology, Regenerative Medicine and Bioethics’ was held in Bonn (Germany) in 2006, bringing together embryologists, stem cell researchers and ethicists interested in human ESC research and the ensuing ethical debate. Two contributions to this Symposium are being published in Cells Tissues Organs, and the present paper aims to provide an introduction to these as well as personal impressions of the author about the perspectives that surfaced at the meeting, confronting them with relevant reports about stem cell research published recently. This paper highlights discussions about the mechanisms of specification of the main body axes during development, the role of extrinsic or intrinsic signals, and about the remarkable potential of ESCs to develop a basic body plan (individuation capacity) resembling properties of early embryonic cells (as shown by the formation of embryoid bodies and entire embryos if tetraploid complementation is performed). Another topic is ‘alternative sources for human ESCs’ recently proposed by the US President’s Council on Bioethics (‘organismically dead embryos’, biopsied blastomeres or ‘biological artifacts’, e.g. created by ‘altered nuclear transfer’ and reprogramming of somatic cells). The possibility to rescue such (epi)genetically handicapped cells shows that this is not a way leading out of the ethical cul-de-sac. Recent reports about reprogramming somatic cells (fibroblasts) to gain ES-like potential highlight again the importance of focusing on the developmental potentiality as the major challenge for ethical considerations. Such a change of focus may be the only way out of the ethical impasse.
Genetic and Pharmacological Targeting of Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase-γ Reduces Atherosclerosis and Favors Plaque Stability by Modulating Inflammatory Processes
Authors: Fougerat Anne , Gayral Stéphanie , Gourdy Pierre , Schambourg Alexia , Rückle Thomas , Schwarz Matthias K. , Rommel Christian , Hirsch Emilio , Arnal Jean-François , Salles Jean-Pierre , Perret Bertrand , Breton-Douillon Monique , Wymann Matthias P. , Laffargue Muriel
Published: February 2008

Background—

The role of inflammation at all stages of the atherosclerotic process has become an active area of investigation, and there is a notable quest for novel and innovative drugs for the treatment of atherosclerosis. The lipid kinase phosphoinositide 3-kinase-γ (PI3Kγ) is thought to be a key player in various inflammatory, autoimmune, and allergic processes. These properties and the expression of PI3Kγ in the cardiovascular system suggest that PI3Kγ plays a role in atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Here, we demonstrate that a specific PI3Kγ inhibitor (AS605240) is effective in murine models of established atherosclerosis. Intraperitoneal administration of AS605240 (10 mg/kg daily) significantly decreased early atherosclerotic lesions in apolipoprotein E–deficient mice and attenuated advanced atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient mice. Furthermore, PI3Kγ levels were elevated in both human and murine atherosclerotic lesions. Comparison of low-density lipoprotein receptor–deficient mice transplanted with wild-type or PI3Kγ-deficient bone marrow demonstrated that functional PI3Kγ in the hematopoietic lineage is required for atherosclerotic progression. Alleviation of atherosclerosis by targeting of PI3Kγ activity was accompanied by decreased macrophage and T-cell infiltration, as well as increased plaque stabilization.

Conclusions—

These data identify PI3Kγ as a new target in atherosclerosis with the potential to modulate multiple stages of atherosclerotic lesion formation, such as fatty streak constitution, cellular composition, and final fibrous cap establishment.
Rural Interhospital Transfer of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients for Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization
Authors: Aguirre Frank V. , Varghese Joji J. , Kelley Michael P. , Lam Wilfred , Lucore Charles L. , Gill John B. , Page Lisa , Turner Leah , Davis Conrad , Mikell Frank L.
Published: February 2008

Background—

In Europe, interhospital transfer of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from non–PCI-capable (STEMI-referral) to PCI-capable (STEMI-accepting) facilities has been shown to be a superior reperfusion strategy compared with on-site fibrinolysis. The feasibility of such programs in the United States remains poorly defined.

Methods and Results—

We describe an observational cohort of 230 consecutive presumed STEMI patients who underwent interhospital transfer between January 2005 and March 2007 among 6 STEMI-referral and 2 STEMI-accepting hospitals in rural central Illinois. A standard treatment protocol using rapid interhospital transfer for primary PCI or rescue PCI after full-dose intravenous fibrinolysis (in event of unanticipated transfer delays) was initiated by the STEMI-referral emergency department physician. Three time intervals were evaluated: STEMI-referral care (door 1 to departure), transport time (door 1 departure to STEMI-accepting hospital arrival [door 2]), and STEMI-accepting hospital care (door 2 to balloon). Primary PCI was performed in 165 STEMI-confirmed patients (87.7%), whereas fibrinolysis was required in 16 patients (8.5%), with 56% undergoing rescue PCI. The median door 1–to-departure time was 46 minutes (25th and 75th percentiles, 32 and 62 minutes); approximately two thirds of this delay was attributable to the wait for transport arrival and departure. The transport and door 2–to-balloon times were 29 minutes (25th and 75th percentiles, 25 and 35 minutes) and 35 minutes (25th and 75th percentiles, 32 and 46 minutes), respectively. The door 1–to-balloon time was 117 minutes (25th and 75th percentiles, 98 and 137 minutes), with 12.2% and 58% of patients achieving a time of ≤90 and ≤120 minutes, respectively. No adverse clinical events occurred during interhospital transport.

Conclusion—

In rural US communities, emergency department physician–initiated interhospital transfer of STEMI patients for primary or rescue PCI is feasible and was safely executed with achievement of timely reperfusion when performed within coordinated healthcare networks.
Long-Term Benefit of Postconditioning
Authors: Thibault Hélène , Piot Christophe , Staat Patrick , Bontemps Laurence , Sportouch Catherine , Rioufol Gilles , Cung Thien Tri , Bonnefoy Eric , Angoulvant Denis , Aupetit Jean-François , Finet Gérard , André-Fouët Xavier , Macia Jean Christophe , Raczka Franck , Rossi Rolland , Itti Rolland , Kirkorian Gilbert , Derumeaux Geneviève , Ovize Michel
Published: February 2008

Background—

We previously demonstrated that ischemic postconditioning decreases creatine kinase release, a surrogate marker for infarct size, in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Our objective was to determine whether ischemic postconditioning could afford (1) a persistent infarct size limitation and (2) an improved recovery of myocardial contractile function several months after infarction.

Methods and Results—

Patients presenting within 6 hours of the onset of chest pain, with suspicion for a first ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction, and for whom the clinical decision was made to treat with percutaneous coronary intervention, were eligible for enrollment. After reperfusion by direct stenting, 38 patients were randomly assigned to a control (no intervention; n=21) or postconditioned group (repeated inflation and deflation of the angioplasty balloon; n=17). Infarct size was assessed both by cardiac enzyme release during early reperfusion and by
201
thallium single photon emission computed tomography at 6 months after acute myocardial infarction. At 1 year, global and regional contractile function was evaluated by echocardiography. At 6 months after acute myocardial infarction, single photon emission computed tomography rest-redistribution index (a surrogate for infarct size) averaged 11.8±10.3% versus 19.5±13.3% in the postconditioned versus control group (
P
=0.04), in agreement with the significant reduction in creatine kinase and troponin I release observed in the postconditioned versus control group (−40% and −47%, respectively). At 1 year, the postconditioned group exhibited a 7% increase in left ventricular ejection fraction compared with control (
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

Postconditioning affords persistent infarct size reduction and improves long-term functional recovery in patients with acute myocardial infarction.
Trends and Cardiovascular Mortality Effects of State-Level Blood Pressure and Uncontrolled Hypertension in the United States
Authors: Ezzati Majid , Oza Shefali , Danaei Goodarz , Murray Christopher J.L.
Published: February 2008

Background—

Blood pressure is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and mortality and has lifestyle and healthcare determinants that vary across states. Only self-reported hypertension status is measured at the state level in the United States. Our aim was to estimate levels and trends in state-level mean systolic blood pressure (SBP), the prevalence of uncontrolled systolic hypertension, and cardiovascular mortality attributable to all levels of higher-than-optimal SBP.

Methods and Results—

We estimated the relationship between actual SBP/uncontrolled hypertension and self-reported hypertension, use of blood pressure medication, and a set of health system and sociodemographic variables in the nationally representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We applied this relationship to identical variables from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to estimate state-specific mean SBP and uncontrolled hypertension. We used the comparative risk assessment methods to estimate cardiovascular mortality attributable to higher-than-optimal SBP. In 2001–2003, age-standardized uncontrolled hypertension prevalence was highest in the District of Columbia, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina (18% to 21% for men and 24% to 26% for women) and lowest in Vermont, Minnesota, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Iowa, and Colorado (15% to 16% for men and ≈21% for women). Women had a higher prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension than men in every state by 4 (Arizona) to 7 (Kansas) percentage points. In the 1990s, uncontrolled hypertension in women increased the most in Idaho and Oregon (by 6 percentage points) and the least in the District of Columbia and Mississippi (by 3 percentage points). For men, the worst-performing states were New Mexico and Louisiana (decrease of 0.6 and 1.3 percentage points), and the best-performing states were Vermont and Indiana (decrease of 4 and 3 percentage points). Age-standardized cardiovascular mortality attributable to higher-than-optimal SBP ranged from 200 to 220 per 100 000 (Minnesota and Massachusetts) to 360 to 370 per 100 000 (District of Columbia and Mississippi) for women and from 210 per 100 000 (Colorado and Utah) to 370 per 100 000 (Mississippi) and 410 per 100 000 (District of Columbia) for men.

Conclusions—

Lifestyle and pharmacological interventions for lowering blood pressure are particularly needed in the South and Appalachia, and with emphasis on control among women. Self-reported data on hypertension diagnosis from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System can be used to obtain unbiased state-level estimates of blood pressure and uncontrolled hypertension as benchmarks for priority setting and for designing and evaluating intervention programs.
Glucometrics in Patients Hospitalized With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Kosiborod Mikhail , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Xiao Lan , Jones Philip G. , Fiske Suzanne , Masoudi Frederick A. , Marso Steven P. , Spertus John A.
Published: February 2008

Background—

Hyperglycemia on admission is associated with an increased mortality rate in patients with acute myocardial infarction. Whether metrics that incorporate multiple glucose assessments during acute myocardial infarction hospitalization are better predictors of mortality than admission glucose alone is not well defined.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated 16 871 acute myocardial infarction patients hospitalized from January 2000 to December 2005. Using logistic regression models and C indexes, 3 metrics of glucose control (mean glucose, time-averaged glucose, hyperglycemic index), each evaluated over 3 time windows (first 24 hours, 48 hours, entire hospitalization), were compared with admission glucose for their ability to discriminate hospitalization survivors from nonsurvivors. Models were then used to evaluate the relationship between mean glucose and in-hospital mortality. All average glucose metrics performed better than admission glucose. The ability of models to predict mortality improved as the time window increased (C indexes for admission, mean 24 hours, 48 hours, and hospitalization glucose were 0.62, 0.64, 0.66, 0.70;
P
<0.0001). Statistically significant but small differences in C indexes of mean glucose, time-averaged glucose, and hyperglycemic index were seen. Mortality rates increased with each 10-mg/dL rise in mean glucose ≥120 mg/dL (odds ratio, 1.8;
P
=0.003 for glucose 120 to <130 mg/dL) and with incremental decline <70 mg/dL (odds ratio, 6.4;
P
=0.01 versus glucose 100 to <110 mg/dL). The slope of these relationships was steeper in patients without diabetes.

Conclusions—

Measures of persistent hyperglycemia during acute myocardial infarction are better predictors of mortality than admission glucose. Mean hospitalization glucose appears to be the most practical metric of hyperglycemia-associated risk. A J-shaped relationship exists between average glucose and mortality, with both persistent hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia associated with adverse prognosis.
Downregulation of Renal TRPM7 and Increased Inflammation and Fibrosis in Aldosterone-Infused Mice
Authors: Sontia Bruno , Montezano Augusto C.I. , Paravicini Tamara , Tabet Fatiha , Touyz Rhian M.
Published: February 2008

Hyperaldosteronism is associated with hypertension, cardiovascular fibrosis, and electrolyte disturbances, including hypomagnesemia. Mechanisms underlying aldosterone-mediated Mg
2+
changes are unclear, but the novel Mg
2+
transporters TRPM6 and TRPM7 may be important. We examined whether aldosterone influences renal TRPM6/7 and the TRPM7 downstream target annexin-1 and tested the hypothesis that Mg
2+
administration ameliorates aldosterone-induced cardiovascular and renal injury and prevents aldosterone-associated hypertension. C57B6 mice were studied (12 weeks, n=8 to 9/group); (1) control group (0.2% dietary Mg
2+
), (2) Mg
2+
group (0.75% dietary Mg
2+
), (3) aldosterone group (Aldo, 400 μg/kg/min and 0.9% NaCl drinking water), and (4) Aldo+Mg
2+
group. Blood pressure was unaltered by aldosterone and was similar in all groups throughout the experiment. Serum Na
+
was increased and serum K
+
and Mg
2+
decreased in the Aldo group. Aldo mice had hypomagnesuria and proteinuria, and renal, cardiac, and aortic fibrosis, which were normalized by Mg
2+
supplementation. Renal and cardiovascular expression of interleukin-6, VCAM1 and COX2 was increased in the Aldo group. Magnesium attenuated renal and cardiac interleukin-6 content and decreased renal VCAM1 and cardiac COX2 expression (
P
<0.05). Aldosterone decreased expression of renal TRPM7 and the downstream target annexin-1 (
P
<0.05) without effect on TRPM6. Whereas Mg
2+
increased mRNA expression of TRPM6 and TRPM7, it had no effect on TRPM7 and annexin-1 protein content. Our data demonstrate that aldosterone mediates blood pressure–independent renal and cardiovascular fibrosis and inflammation through Mg
2+
-sensitive pathways. We suggest that altered Mg
2+
metabolism in hyperaldosteronism may relate to TRPM7 downregulation and that Mg
2+
protects against cardiovascular and renal damaging actions of aldosterone.
Levels of Renal and Extrarenal Sympathetic Drive in Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension
Authors: Burke Sandra L. , Evans Roger G. , Moretti John-Luis , Head Geoffrey A.
Published: February 2008

We examined the contribution of the renal nerves to mean arterial pressure (MAP) during 5-week chronic infusion of angiotensin II (Ang II; 50 ng/kg per minute SC) in conscious rabbits. Basal MAP was 68±1 mm Hg, and the maximum depressor response to ganglion blockade was −20±2 mm Hg. MAP increased by 25±2 mm Hg after 1 week and remained stable over the next 4 weeks. Depressor responses to pentolinium (6 mg/kg IV) were similar to control during the first week of hypertension but thereafter became increasingly greater in Ang II–treated rabbits but not vehicle-treated rabbits. After 5 weeks, the fall in MAP was 54% greater in Ang II- than in vehicle-treated rabbits (−34±2 versus −22±2 mm Hg), but renal sympathetic nerve activity was similar in both groups. Renal denervation produced a small fall in MAP in all of the vehicle-treated rabbits after 4 days (−6±2 mm Hg;
P
=0.01), but there was no consistent effect in hypertensive rabbits. The depressor response to ganglion blockade was enhanced in vehicle-treated but not Ang II–treated rabbits. The finding that renal sympathetic nerve activity is not altered by Ang II hypertension nor is the hypertension altered by renal denervation suggests that renal sympathetic nerves do not contribute to the hypertension. The greater depressor effect of acute ganglion blockade in hypertensive rabbits suggests that the sympathetic nervous system exerts increased vasoconstriction in the peripheral vasculature in Ang II–induced hypertension.
Low Birthweight Is Associated With Narrower Arterioles in Adults
Authors: Liew Gerald , Wang Jie Jin , Duncan Bruce B. , Klein Ronald , Sharrett A. Richey , Brancati Frederick , Yeh Hsin-Chieh , Mitchell Paul , Wong Tien Y.
Published: February 2008

Low birthweight is associated with increased risk of hypertension, but underlying mechanisms are obscure. We hypothesized structural microvascular alterations may be one such mechanism. We examined the association of birthweight and retinal arteriolar caliber in 3800 persons aged 51 to 72 years participating in a population-based study in 4 US communities (the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study). Participants reported full-term birth and their birthweight and had retinal photography. Retinal arteriolar and venular calibers were measured from digitized retinal photographs using a validated computer-assisted method. Lower birthweight was associated with narrower retinal arteriolar caliber, with each kg lower birthweight associated with 2.4 μm (95% confidence intervals, 1.3 to 3.5,
P
<0.001) narrower retinal arteriolar caliber, after controlling for age, gender, race, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, adult body mass index, and height. Additional adjustment for blood pressure averaged over the past 6 years and fasting glucose did not alter these findings, with each kg lower birthweight associated with a 1.7 μm (95% confidence intervals, 0.7 to 2.8,
P
<0.001) narrower retinal arteriolar caliber. This association was also present in persons without hypertension or diabetes. Lower birthweight was not associated with retinal venular caliber. These findings provide evidence that structural alterations in the arteriolar microcirculation may be a potential mechanism linking restricted fetal growth with subsequent risk of hypertension.
What Should Be Considered When Simulating Doppler Velocities Measured by Ground-Based Weather Radars?
Authors: Caumont Olivier , Ducrocq Véronique
Published: February 2008

A sophisticated and flexible simulator of Doppler velocities measured by ground-based weather radars is appended to a high-resolution nonhydrostatic atmospheric model. Sensitivity experiments are conducted by using different configurations for each of the physical processes that is modeled by the simulator. It is concluded that neglecting the vertical beam broadening effect or the weighting by reflectivities yields errors of the same order on the simulated reflectivities. Neglecting hydrometeor fall speeds has a much smaller impact. It is also shown that neglecting both the beam broadening effect and the weighting by reflectivities yields errors of the same order as occur when only one of these effects is neglected.
Drag of the Water Surface at Very Short Fetches: Observations and Modeling
Authors: Caulliez Guillemette , Makin Vladimir , Kudryavtsev Vladimir
Published: February 2008

The specific properties of the turbulent wind stress and the related wind wave field are investigated in a dedicated laboratory experiment for a wide range of wind speeds and fetches, and the results are analyzed using the wind-over-waves coupling model. Compared to long-fetch ocean wave fields, wind wave fields observed at very short fetches are characterized by higher significant dominant wave steepness but a much smaller macroscale wave breaking rate. The surface drag dependence on fetch and wind then closely follows the dominant wave steepness dependence. It is found that the dimensionless roughness length z*0 varies not only with wind forcing (or inverse wave age) but also with fetch. At a fixed fetch, when gravity waves develop, z*0 decreases with wind forcing according to a −1/2 power law. Taking into account the peculiarities of laboratory wave fields, the WOWC model predicts the measured wind stress values rather well. The relative contributions to surface drag of the equilibrium-range wave-induced stress and the airflow separation stress due to wave breaking remain small, even at high wind speeds. At moderate to strong winds, the form drag resulting from dominant waves represents the major wind stress component.
Measurements of the Transmission Loss of a Radome at Different Rain Intensities
Authors: Kurri Mikko , Huuskonen Asko
Published: February 2008

Results on the transmission loss of a dry and a wet C-band weather radar radome at different rain intensities are presented. Two methods were used in the study, both carried out under laboratory conditions. In the first method, the complex permittivity of a dry radome is measured and the transmission loss calculated. To analyze the transmission loss of a wet radome, the thickness of a continuous water layer on the surface of a radome at different rain intensities and the complex permittivity of water are calculated. In the second method, the transmission loss is measured as a free space transmission measurement with a 1.3-m2 piece of a radome panel. The piece is measured as dry and as doused by a rain system designed for the measurements. The measurements are performed with a dirty, cleaned, and waxed radome to examine the effects of maintenance measures with an old radome on the transmission loss. Because the transmission loss as a function of rain intensity is measured with a small piece of radome, a method is developed to scale the free space measurements for a complete 6.7-m-diameter radome with equal dielectric properties. Results of the one-way transmission loss of a dry radome with the permittivity and free space measurements are in a good agreement (0.34 and 0.35 dB, respectively). According to the analysis, a continuous water layer on a radome has a significant influence on the transmission loss. A 3-dB two-way transmission loss caused by a dirty radome is observed at a rain intensity of 15.1 mm h−1. Waxing gives promising results in reducing the wet radome loss because the waxing prevents the formation of a continuous water layer on the surface of the radome.
A Revised Hurricane Pressure–Wind Model
Authors: Holland Greg
Published: February 2008

A new technique for relating central pressure and maximum winds in tropical cyclones is presented, together with a method of objectively determining a derivative of the Holland b parameter, bs, which relates directly to surface winds and varies with the pressure drop into the cyclone center, intensification rate, latitude, and translation speed. By allowing this bs parameter to vary, a realistic scatter in maximum winds for a given central pressure is obtained. This provides an improvement over traditional approaches that provide a unique wind for each central pressure. It is further recommended that application of the Dvorak satellite-interpretation technique be changed to enable a direct derivation of central pressure. The pressure–wind model derived here can then provide the maximum wind estimates. The recent North Atlantic data archive is shown to be largely derived from the use of the Dvorak technique, even when hurricane reconnaissance data are available and Dvorak overestimates maximum winds in this region for the more intense hurricanes. Application to the full North Atlantic hurricane archive confirms the findings by Landsea (1993) of a substantial overestimation of maximum winds between 1950 and 1980; the Landsea corrections do not completely remove this bias.
Recent Currents in Research on the Prophetic Literature
Authors: Tiemeyer Lena-Sofia
Published: February 2008

This article outlines the main directions that scholarly research on the biblical prophetic literature has taken in the last twenty years. First, it provides an overview of current studies that, benefiting from the insights of sociology, anthropology and Ancient Near Eastern studies, enhance our understanding of the prophetic roles in Ancient Israel. Secondly, it gives examples of recent developments in the areas of rhetorical criticism, source criticism and redaction criticism pertaining to the prophetic literature. Lastly, it offers a glimpse of some of the currently hotly debated issues arising from the prophetic literature.
Ask, Seek and Knock? A Reconsideration of Matthew 7:7—12
Authors: Yang Jayhoon
Published: February 2008

The `Answering Father' (7:7—12) is to exhort the reader to place their trust in God the Father's goodness and faithfulness rather than to pray persistently. Matthew, after establishing this divine relationship, directs the reader to expand it to a human one by concluding the teaching with the Golden Rule. The reader is asked to show the same goodness to neighbours that God the Father has given to them.
Studies of the Psalms: Retrospect and Prospect
Authors: Gillingham Susan
Published: February 2008

The paper highlights the enduring influence of Gunkel and Mowinckel throughout the twentieth century, but its main focus is from the 1980s when there was a notable change of emphasis from historically orientated works to studies of a more literary nature (noting here the roles of Wilson, Westermann and Brueggemann). Edited works from SBL in America (1993) and in Germany (1994) are seen as landmark publications. The paper also notes more collaborative works involving Jews and Christians — in the poetry of the psalms, in Qumran studies, and in the reception history of psalmody. The paper concludes by assessing the prospects of psalm studies in these relatively new areas.
Minimum Cross-entropy Methods for Rare-event Simulation
Authors: Ridder Ad , Rubinstein Reuven
Published: February 2008

We apply the minimum cross-entropy method (MinXEnt) for estimating rare-event probabilities for the sum of i.i.d. random variables. MinXEnt is an analogy of the MaXimum Entropy Principle in the sense that the objective is to minimize a relative (or cross) entropy of a target density h from an unknown density f under suitable constraints. The main idea is to use the solution to this optimization program as the simulation density in importance sampling. We shall see that some eXisting importance sampling methods can be cast in a MinXEnt program, such as the large deviations approach for light tails and the hazard rate twisting for heavy tails. As an eXtension, we shall consider a correlated version of this hazard rate twisted solution which gives better simulation results. The sample generation is based on a Gibbs sampler algorithm.