bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Branch‐and‐Bound Algorithm Embedded with DCA for DC Programming
Authors: Wang Meihua , Xu Fengmin , Xu Chengxian
Published: July 2012

The special importance of Difference of Convex (DC) functions programming has been recognized in recent studies on nonconvex optimization problems. In this work, a class of DC programming derived from the portfolio selection problems is studied. The most popular method applied to solve the problem is the Branch‐and‐Bound (B&B) algorithm. However, “the curse of dimensionality” will affect the performance of the B&B algorithm. DC Algorithm (DCA) is an efficient method to get a local optimal solution. It has been applied to many practical problems, especially for large‐scale problems. A B&B‐DCA algorithm is proposed by embedding DCA into the B&B algorithms, the new algorithm improves the computational performance and obtains a global optimal solution. Computational results show that the proposed B&B‐DCA algorithm has the superiority of the branch number and computational time than general B&B. The nice features of DCA (inexpensiveness, reliability, robustness, globality of computed solutions, etc.) provide crucial support to the combined B&B‐DCA for accelerating the convergence of B&B.
Diagnostic Testing for Degenerative Disc Disease
Authors: Hasz Michael W.
Published: July 2012

The diagnostic of degenerative disc disease should be reached with the help of various diagnostic studies. This article briefly review the information gained by the following tests: radiographs, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and discography. The article explains how each modality provides a piece of the diagnostic puzzle and how discography confirms the origin of the patient’s pain.
The Role of Reticulate Evolution in Creating Innovation and Complexity
Authors: Swithers Kristen S. , Soucy Shannon M. , Gogarten J. Peter
Published: July 2012

Reticulate evolution encompasses processes that conflict with traditional Tree of Life efforts. These processes, horizontal gene transfer (HGT), gene and whole-genome duplications through allopolyploidization, are some of the main driving forces for generating innovation and complexity. HGT has a profound impact on prokaryotic and eukaryotic evolution. HGTs can lead to the invention of new metabolic pathways and the expansion and enhancement of previously existing pathways. It allows for organismal adaptation into new ecological niches and new host ranges. Although many HGTs appear to be selected for because they provide some benefit to their recipient lineage, other HGTs may be maintained by chance through random genetic drift. Moreover, some HGTs that may initially seem parasitic in nature can cause complexity to arise through pathways of neutral evolution. Another mechanism for generating innovation and complexity, occurring more frequently in eukaryotes than in prokaryotes, is gene and genome duplications, which often occur through allopolyploidizations. We discuss how these different evolutionary processes contribute to generating innovation and complexity.
Responses ofJatropha curcasto Salt and Drought Stresses
Authors: Niu Genhua , Rodriguez Denise , Mendoza Mike , Jifon John , Ganjegunte Girisha
Published: July 2012

Two greenhouse experiments were conducted to quantify growth responses ofJatropha curcasto a range of salt and drought stresses. Typical symptoms of salinity stress such as leaf edge yellowing were observed in all elevated salinity treatments and the degree of the foliar salt damage increased with the salinity of irrigation water. Total dry weight (DW) of Jatropha plants was reduced by 30%, 30%, and 50%, respectively, when irrigated with saline solutions at electrical conductivity of 3.0, 6.0, and 9.0 dSm−1compared to that in the control. LeafNa+concentration was much higher than that observed in most glycophytes. LeafCl−concentrations were also high. In the drought stress experiment, plants were irrigated daily with nutrient solution at 100%, 70%, 50%, or 30% daily water use (DWU). Deficit irrigation reduced plant growth and leaf development. The DW of leaves, roots, and total were reduced in the 70%, 50%, and 30% DWU compared to the 100% DWU control treatment. In summary, salinity stress and deficit irrigation significantly reduced the growth and leaf development of greenhouse-grown Jatropha plants.
Dynamic Analysis of Stockbridge Damper
Authors: Barbieri Nilson , Barbieri Renato
Published: July 2012

In this work a machine cam with five different profiles was used to investigate the linear and nonlinear dynamical behavior of asymmetric Stockbridge damper with excitation frequencies in the range of 5≤f≤17 Hz. The experimental vibration signals were acquired through accelerometers placed along the sample. The loss factor and the Young's modulus were estimated through approximation of the experimental and numerical results using Genetic Algorithms (GAs). Linear and nonlinear mathematical models were used to adjust the data. The two parameters are dependent on the excitation frequency and the amplitude of the base displacement. The results are validated comparing typical impedance curves obtained in conventional testing using an electromechanical shaker.
Distributed Containment Control of Networked Fractional‐Order Systems with Delay‐Dependent Communications
Authors: Liu Xueliang , Xu Bugong , Xie Lihua
Published: July 2012

This paper is concerned with a containment problem of networked fractional‐order system with multiple leaders under a fixed directed interaction graph. Based on the neighbor rule, a distributed protocol is proposed in delayed communication channels. By employing the algebraic graph theory, matrix theory, Nyquist stability theorem, and frequency domain method, it is analytically proved that the whole follower agents will flock to the convex hull which is formed by the leaders. Furthermore, a tight upper bound on the communication time‐delay that can be tolerated in the dynamic network is obtained. As a special case, the interconnection topology under the undirected case is also discussed. Finally, some numerical examples with simulations are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and correctness of the theoretical results.
Emerging Glycolysis Targeting and Drug Discovery from Chinese Medicine in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Wang Zhiyu , Wang Neng , Chen Jianping , Shen Jiangang
Published: July 2012

Molecular-targeted therapy has been developed for cancer chemoprevention and treatment. Cancer cells have different metabolic properties from normal cells. Normal cells mostly rely upon the process of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation to produce energy whereas cancer cells have developed an altered metabolism that allows them to sustain higher proliferation rates. Cancer cells could predominantly produce energy by glycolysis even in the presence of oxygen. This alternative metabolic characteristic is known as the “Warburg Effect.” Although the exact mechanisms underlying the Warburg effect are unclear, recent progress indicates that glycolytic pathway of cancer cells could be a critical target for drug discovery. With a long history in cancer treatment, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is recognized as a valuable source for seeking bioactive anticancer compounds. A great progress has been made to identify active compounds from herbal medicine targeting on glycolysis for cancer treatment. Herein, we provide an overall picture of the current understanding of the molecular targets in the cancer glycolytic pathway and reviewed active compounds from Chinese herbal medicine with the potentials to inhibit the metabolic targets for cancer treatment. Combination of TCM with conventional therapies will provide an attractive strategy for improving clinical outcome in cancer treatment.
Regularity of Global Attractor for the Reaction‐Diffusion Equation
Authors: Luo Hong
Published: July 2012

By using an iteration procedure, regularity estimates for
the linear semigroups, and a classical existence theorem of global attractor, we prove
that the reaction‐diffusion equation possesses a global attractor in Sobolev space
Hk for all k > 0, which attracts any bounded subset of Hk(Ω) in the Hk‐norm.
In SilicoModelling of Treatment-Induced Tumour Cell Kill: Developments and Advances
Authors: Marcu Loredana G. , Harriss-Phillips Wendy M.
Published: July 2012

Mathematical and stochastic computer (in silico) models of tumour growth and treatment response of the past and current eras are presented, outlining the aims of the models, model methodology, the key parameters used to describe the tumour system, and treatment modality applied, as well as reported outcomes from simulations. Fractionated radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and combined therapies are reviewed, providing a comprehensive overview of the modelling literature for current modellers and radiobiologists to ignite the interest of other computational scientists and health professionals of the ever evolving and clinically relevant field of tumour modelling.
Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Adolph Timon-Eric , Niederreiter Lukas , Blumberg Richard S. , Kaser Arthur
Published: July 2012

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress due to the presence of misfolded or unfolded proteins in the ER invokes a fundamental biological response, termed the unfolded protein response (UPR). The UPR is orchestrated by three main proximal effectors, of which the IRE1/XBP1 pathway represents the evolutionarily most conserved one. Due to its high secretory burden, the intestinal epithelium is highly susceptible to perturbations in the UPR as has been revealed by functional investigations such as in mice that lack Xbp1 expression, specifically in the intestinal epithelial cells. Genetic studies have revealed several ER stress/UPR-associated genes, including XBP1, ORMDL3, AGR2 and MUC19 as risk factors for IBD, and specific functional, rare variants have been described for XBP1. Xbp1ΔIEC mice spontaneously develop small intestinal enteritis with crypt abscesses reminiscent of human IBD, while Agr2–/– mice develop granulomatous ileocolitis. Mechanistic studies into Xbp1ΔIEC mice revealed a major effect on Paneth cells associated with alterations in host-microbe interactions in the intestine, and the activation of key proinflammatory pathways in the host directly associated with unresolved ER stress and hypomorphic Xbp1 function. Remarkably, the intestinal epithelium of IBD patients commonly exhibits evidence of marked ER stress, which cannot easily be attributed to these genetic risk factors alone and indicates that the paradigm of ER stress-related inflammation might be both a primary originator as well as a potent perpetuator of intestinal inflammation in IBD.
Bacteriology in the Etiopathogenesis of Pouchitis
Authors: Shen Bo
Published: July 2012

Background: Pouchitis is the most common long-term complication in ulcerative colitis that follows restorative proctocolectomy. Clinical evidence suggests that dysbiosis plays a key role in its pathogenesis. Methods: Current literature on the topic was reviewed. A therapeutic approach was proposed based on the literature along with personal experience from the subspecialty Pouchitis Clinic. Results: Pouchitis represents a disease spectrum in the reservoir, with ranging etiopathogenesis, clinical phenotypes, disease courses and prognoses. Dysbiosis plays a critical role in disease initiation and progress, with antibiotic therapy as the mainstay for treatment. On the other hand, superimposed infection from pathogens contributes to flare-up of the disease. Pouchitis can progress into an ‘IBD-like’ condition, requiring anti-inflammatory, immunomodulator or even biological therapy. Conclusion: Pouchitis represents a unique form of IBD. Investigation on the evolution from an antibiotic-responsive phenotype to chronic antibiotic-refractory pouchitis may shed some light on the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of IBD.
Biologic Therapies: Lessons from Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Ghosh Subrata
Published: July 2012

New evidence points to a possible association of multiple sclerosis (MS) with IBD. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is involved in the pathogenesis of MS. Paradoxically, administration of anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies to IBD patients has led to exacerbation of MS or triggered demyelination. TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) mediates demyelination and TNFR2 mediates remyelination, suggesting that a more selective approach to TNF antagonism may be required for an anti-TNF strategy to be effective in MS. Conversely, interferon treatment for MS may worsen IBD. Anti-lymphocyte trafficking strategies such as alpha4 integrin blockers are effective in both these diseases. Recent advances in small molecule development in this area may provide further effective therapies. Common inflammatory cytokine and signaling pathways may be shared between MS and IBD, such as TNF, interleukin (IL)-12/23, IL-17, CD40 and STAT3. However, in contrast to Crohn’s disease, ustekinumab has not shown efficacy in MS. Vitamin D deficiency is a hot topic in both diseases. Several drugs developed for MS, e.g. glatiramer acetate, are also being studied in IBDs. As in rheumatoid arthritis, MS also serves as an example of a chronic relapsing inflammatory disease where disease modification is the goal of treatment based on objective evidence derived from imaging, in turn providing examples of how to conduct IBD studies in future.
Reprogramming the Immune System in IBD
Authors: MacDonald Thomas T. , Vossenkaemper Anna , Fantini Massimo , Monteleone Giovanni
Published: July 2012

Immune function in the gut mucosa is tightly regulated to prevent deleterious tissue damaging responses to the indigenous microbiota. In animal models, negative regulatory molecules such as transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) and interleukin (IL)-10 seem to be particularly important. Although IL-10 is made by macrophages, T cells and B cells, TGFβ1 is made by many non-lymphoid/myeloid cells, especially epithelial cells. We have been able to show that in the human gut, neutralization of TGFβ1 increases Th1 and Th17 responses. In IBD, however, especially Crohn’s disease, exogenous TGFβ1 cannot inhibit inflammation because of a block in intracellular signalling mediated by Smad7. Knockdown of Smad7 allows endogenous TGFβ1 to dampen inflammation in mucosal tissues from Crohn’s patients. We have also generated a mouse which over-expresses Smad7 in T cells. This animal develops more severe colitis in a number of different models, but the inflammation helps protect against colon cancer.
Deep Brain Stimulation Hardware Complications in Patients with Movement Disorders: Risk Factors and Clinical Correlations
Authors: Baizabal Carvallo José Fidel , Mostile Giovanni , Almaguer Mike , Davidson Anthony , Simpson Richard , Jankovic Joseph
Published: July 2012

Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has proven to be an effective treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other movement disorders, but its usefulness is limited by complications related to the hardware. Methods: We reviewed the records of all our patients treated with DBS from January 1996 to August 2010 and analyzed those with hardware complications and reasons for surgical revision. Results: A total of 512 patients underwent 856 electrode implantations during the study period. A total of 297 (58%) patients had PD, 127 (24.8%) had essential tremor (ET), 40 (7.8%) had dystonia, and 48 (9.37%) had another movement disorder. The mean age at the first electrode implantation was 57.6 ± 14 years and patients were followed for a mean of 3.9 ± 2.8 years. A total of 44 patients (8.6%) had a hardware complication or system revision. Lead fracture was the most common complication and occurred in 13 (2.5%) patients, followed by infections (n = 10, 1.9%), electrode misplacement (n = 10, 1.9%), electrode migration (n = 9, 1.75%), and other complications (n = 2 , 0.39%). Patients with ET had a higher risk of hardware complications compared to those with PD, 13 vs. 7% (OR 2.03; p = 0.042). Conclusions: DBS is a safe intervention with a relatively low rate of hardware complications.
Novel Pathways in the Pathobiology of Human Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Hinterseher Irene , Erdman Robert , Elmore James R. , Stahl Elizabeth , Pahl Matthew C. , Derr Kimberly , Golden Alicia , Lillvis John H. , Cindric Matthew C. , Jackson Kathryn , Bowen William D. , Schworer Charles M. , Chernousov Michael A. , Franklin David P. , Gray John L. , Garvin Robert P. , Gatalica Zoran , Carey David J. , Tromp Gerard , Kuivaniemi Helena
Published: July 2012

Objectives: Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), a dilatation of the infrarenal aorta, typically affects males >65 years. The pathobiological mechanisms of human AAA are poorly understood. The goal of this study was to identify novel pathways involved in the development of AAAs. Methods: A custom-designed ‘AAA-chip’ was used to assay 43 of the differentially expressed genes identified in a previously published microarray study between AAA (n = 15) and control (n = 15) infrarenal abdominal aorta. Protein analyses were performed on selected genes. Results: Altogether 38 of the 43 genes on the ‘AAA-chip’ showed significantly different expression. Novel validated genes in AAA pathobiology included ADCY7, ARL4C, BLNK, FOSB, GATM, LYZ, MFGE8, PRUNE2, PTPRC, SMTN, TMODI and TPM2. These genes represent a wide range of biological functions, such as calcium signaling, development and differentiation, as well as cell adhesion not previously implicated in AAA pathobiology. Protein analyses for GATM, CD4, CXCR4, BLNK, PLEK, LYZ, FOSB, DUSP6, ITGA5 and PTPRC confirmed the mRNA findings. Conclusion: The results provide new directions for future research into AAA pathogenesis to study the role of novel genes confirmed here. New treatments and diagnostic tools for AAA could potentially be identified by studying these novel pathways.
Amplitude-Integrated Electroencephalography in Newborns with Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Authors: Olischar Monika , Shany Eilon , Aygün Canan , Azzopardi Denis , Hunt Rod W. , Toet Mona C. , Hamosh Ada , de Vries Linda S. , Hellström-Westas Lena , Theda Christiane
Published: July 2012

Background: The utility of amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) monitoring has been established for patients with neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Objective: To evaluate the role of aEEG in the diagnostic process and treatment of patients with encephalopathy due to inborn errors of metabolism. Methods: Cases collected through an international registry were divided into 5 groups of metabolic disorders. Common aEEG features were sought for each group. Results: In total, 21/30 (70%) cases had abnormal aEEG background patterns, 18/30 (60%) showed seizure activity. Patients with disorders of energy metabolism, hyperammonemia, and organic/amino acidopathies often showed marked aEEG depression with seizure activity. In contrast, aEEGs of patients with peroxisomal disorders did not show major background abnormalities but seizures were present in 5/6 subjects. We report two features of interest: firstly, two tracings displayed an unusual upward shift of the lower aEEG amplitude margin. Secondly, aEEGs of infants with non-ketotic hyperglycinemia showed a pattern we refer to as ‘high-frequency burst-suppression pattern’. Conclusions: aEEG in patients with inborn errors of metabolism frequently reveals abnormalities and assists clinicians in the clinical assessment, management and monitoring of these patients.
Pre-Existing Arteriosclerotic Intimal Thickening in Living-Donor Kidneys Reflects Allograft Function
Authors: Sofue Tadashi , Inui Masashi , Kiyomoto Hideyasu , Moritoki Masahiro , Nishioka Satoshi , Nishijima Yoko , Moriwaki Kumiko , Hara Taiga , Kushida Yoshio , Haba Reiji , Yoda Takeshi , Hirao Tomohiro , Kakehi Yoshiyuki , Nishiyama Akira , Kohno Masakazu
Published: July 2012

Background: Donor shortage is a serious problem worldwide and it is now debated whether kidneys from marginal donors are suitable for renal transplantation. Recent studies have shown that the findings of preimplantation kidney biopsy are useful to evaluate vasculopathy in the donated kidney, and may predict transplant outcomes in deceased- donor kidney transplantation. However, few studies have focused on the pathological findings of preimplantation biopsy in living-donor kidney transplantation. Therefore, we investigated whether arteriosclerotic vasculopathy in living-donor kidneys at the time of transplantation predicts the recipient’s kidney function (allograft function) later in life. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 75 consecutive adult living-donor kidney transplants performed at Kagawa University Hospital. Renal arteriosclerotic vasculopathy was defined according to the presence of fibrous intimal thickening in the interlobular artery. Results: Forty-one kidneys exhibited mild arteriosclerotic vasculopathy on preimplantation kidney biopsies. The decreases in estimated glomerular filtration rate after donation were similar in donors with or without renal arteriosclerotic vasculopathy. Pre-existing arteriosclerotic vasculopathy did not affect graft survival rate, patient survival rate or the incidence of complications. Recipients of kidneys with arteriosclerotic vasculopathy had lower allograft function at 1 and 3 years after transplantation than the recipients of arteriosclerosis-free kidneys with or without donor hypertension. In multivariate analysis, fibrous intimal thickening on preimplantation biopsy was predictive of reduced allograft function at 1 year after transplantation. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that mild arteriosclerotic vasculopathy in the donated kidney is an important pathological factor that reflects future impaired function of renal allografts from marginal donors.
Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions
Editors' Picks
Authors:   The Editors
Published: July 2012

The following articles are being highlighted as part of
Circulation's
Topic Review series. This series summarizes the most important manuscripts, as selected by the editors, published in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
subspecialty journals. The studies included in this article represent the Editors' Picks for each
Circulation: Cardiovascular Interventions'
issue published in 2011.
Attenuation of Wave Reflection by Wave Entrapment Creates a “Horizon Effect” in the Human Aorta
Authors: Davies Justin E. , Alastruey Jordi , Francis Darrel P. , Hadjiloizou Nearchos , Whinnett Zachary I. , Manisty Charlotte H. , Aguado-Sierra Jazmin , Willson Keith , Foale Rodney A. , Malik Iqbal S. , Hughes Alun D. , Parker Kim H. , Mayet Jamil
Published: July 2012

Wave reflection is thought to be important in the augmentation of blood pressure. However, identification of distal reflections sites remains unclear. One possible explanation for this is that wave reflection is predominately determined by an amalgamation of multiple proximal small reflections rather than large discrete reflections originating from the distal peripheries. In 19 subjects (age, 35–73 years), sensor-tipped intra-arterial wires were used to measure pressure and Doppler velocity at 10-cm intervals along the aorta, starting at the aortic root. Incident and reflected waves were identified and timings and magnitudes quantified using wave intensity analysis. Mean wave speed increased along the length of the aorta (proximal, 6.8±0.9 m/s; distal, 10.7±1.5 m/s). The incident wave was tracked moving along the aorta, taking 55±4 ms to travel from the aortic root to the distal aorta. However, the timing to the refection site distance did not differ between proximal and distal aortic measurement sites (proximal aorta, 48±5 ms versus distal aorta, 42±4 ms;
P
=0.3). We performed a second analysis using aortic waveforms in a nonlinear model of pulse-wave propagation. This demonstrated very similar results to those observed in vivo and also an exponential attenuation in reflection magnitude. There is no single dominant refection site in or near the distal aorta. Rather, there are multiple reflection sites along the aorta, for which the contributions are attenuated with distance. We hypothesize that rereflection of reflected waves leads to wave entrapment, preventing distal waves being seen in the proximal aorta.
The Search for Habitable Worlds: Planetary Exploration in the 21st Century
Authors: Bell James F.
Published: July 2012

The search for and detailed characterization of habitable environments on other worlds – places where liquid water, heat/energy sources, and biologically important organic molecules exist or could have once existed – is a major twenty-first-century goal for space exploration by NASA and other space agencies, motivated by intense public interest and highly ranked science objectives identified in recent National Academy decadal surveys. Through telescopic observations, terrestrial laboratory and field studies, and a “flyby, orbit, land, rove, and return” strategy for robotic exploration, particular emphasis will be placed on specific worlds already identified as potentially habitable: Mars, Jupiter's ocean moon Europa, and Saturn's icy and organic-bearing moons Titan and Enceladus. However, the potential abounds for surprising discoveries at many of our solar system's other planetary, satellite, and asteroidal destinations, as well as within newly discovered planetary systems around other stars.
AMIP Simulation with the CAM4 Spectral Element Dynamical Core
Authors: Evans K. J. , Lauritzen P. H. , Mishra S. K. , Neale R. B. , Taylor M. A. , Tribbia J. J.
Published: July 2012

The authors evaluate the climate produced by the Community Climate System Model, version 4, running with the new spectral element atmospheric dynamical core option. The spectral element method is configured to use a cubed-sphere grid, providing quasi-uniform resolution over the sphere and increased parallel scalability and removing the need for polar filters. It uses a fourth-order accurate spatial discretization that locally conserves mass and total energy. Using the Atmosphere Model Intercomparison Project protocol, the results from the spectral element dynamical core are compared with those produced by the default finite-volume dynamical core and with observations. Even though the two dynamical cores are quite different, their simulated climates are remarkably similar. When compared with observations, both models have strengths and weaknesses but have nearly identical root-mean-square errors and the largest biases show little sensitivity to the dynamical core. The spectral element core does an excellent job reproducing the atmospheric kinetic energy spectra, including fully capturing the observed Nastrom–Gage transition when running at 0.125° resolution.
The Role of Vortex and Environment Errors in Genesis Forecasts of Hurricanes Danielle and Karl (2010)
Authors: Torn Ryan D. , Cook David
Published: July 2012

An ensemble of Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) forecasts initialized from a cycling ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) system is used to evaluate the sensitivity of Hurricanes Danielle and Karl’s (2010) genesis forecasts to vortex and environmental initial conditions via ensemble sensitivity analysis. Both the Danielle and Karl forecasts are sensitive to the 0-h circulation associated with the pregenesis system over a deep layer and to the temperature and water vapor mixing ratio within the vortex over a comparatively shallow layer. Empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) of the 0-h ensemble kinematic and thermodynamic fields within the vortex indicate that the 0-h circulation and moisture fields covary with one another, such that a stronger vortex is associated with higher moisture through the column. Forecasts of the pregenesis system intensity are only sensitive to the leading mode of variability in the vortex fields, suggesting that only specific initial condition perturbations associated with the vortex will amplify with time. Multivariate regressions of the vortex EOFs and environmental parameters believed to impact genesis suggest that the Karl forecast is most sensitive to the vortex structure, with smaller sensitivity to the upwind integrated water vapor and 200–850-hPa vertical wind shear magnitude. By contrast, the Danielle forecast is most sensitive to the vortex structure during the first 24 h, but is more sensitive to the 200-hPa divergence and vertical wind shear magnitude at longer forecast hours.
Discontinuous Galerkin Transport on the Spherical Yin–Yang Overset Mesh
Authors: Hall David M. , Nair Ramachandran D.
Published: July 2012

A discontinuous Galerkin (DG) transport scheme is presented that employs the Yin–Yang grid on the sphere. The Yin–Yang grid is a quasi-uniform overset mesh comprising two notched latitude–longitude meshes placed at right angles to each other. Surface fluxes of conserved scalars are obtained at the overset boundaries by interpolation from the interior of the elements on the complimentary grid, using high-order polynomial interpolation intrinsic to the DG technique. A series of standard tests are applied to evaluate its performance, revealing it to be robust and its accuracy to be competitive with other global advection schemes at equivalent resolutions. Under p-type grid refinement, the DG Yin–Yang method exhibits spectral error convergence for smooth initial conditions and third-order geometric convergence for C1 continuous functions. In comparison with finite-volume implementations of the Yin–Yang mesh, the DG implementation is less complex, as it does not require a wide halo region of elements for accurate boundary value interpolation. With respect to DG cubed-sphere implementations, the Yin–Yang grid exhibits similar accuracy and appears to be a viable alternative suitable for global advective transport. A variant called the Yin–Yang polar (YY-P) mesh is also examined and is shown to have properties similar to the original Yin–Yang mesh while performing better on tests with strictly zonal flow.
Identifying Nonwords: Effects of Lexical Neighborhoods, Phonotactic Probability, and Listener Characteristics
Authors: Janse Esther , Newman Rochelle S.
Published: July 2012

Listeners find it relatively difficult to recognize words that are similar-sounding to other known words. In contrast, when asked to identify spoken nonwords, listeners perform better when the nonwords are similar to many words in their language. These effects of sound similarity have been assessed in multiple ways, and both sublexical (phonotactic probability) and lexical (neighborhood) effects have been reported, leading to models that incorporate multiple stages of processing. One prediction that can be derived from these models is that there may be differences among individuals in the size of these similarity effects as a function of working memory abilities. This study investigates how item-individual characteristics of nonwords (both phonotactic probability and neighborhood density) interact with listener-individual characteristics (such as cognitive abilities and hearing sensitivity) in the perceptual identification of nonwords. A set of nonwords was used in which neighborhood density and phonotactic probability were not correlated. In our data, neighborhood density affected identification more reliably than did phonotactic probability. The first study, with young adults, showed that higher neighborhood density particularly benefits nonword identification for those with poorer attention-switching control. This suggests that it may be easier to focus attention on a novel item if it activates and receives support from more similar-sounding neighbors. A similar study on nonword identification with older adults showed increased neighborhood density effects for those with poorer hearing, suggesting that activation of long-term linguistic knowledge is particularly important to back up auditory representations that are degraded as a result of hearing loss.
Strategies for revitalizing labour movements: Union organizing and building alliances with community in Argentina
Authors: Serdar Ayşe
Published: July 2012

This article examines the labour renewal strategies implemented by Central de Los Trabajadores de la Argentina. It argues that union organizing is conditioned by historical legacies and structural constraints, while social movement unionism, which for the most part promotes building alliances with community groups, can be achieved by taking advantage of political opportunities and mobilizing resources. To maintain these alliances, trade unions and social movement organizations need to build institutionalized partnerships and compensate for their individual weaknesses. The article also argues that organizing the unorganized and building alliances with the community are not a substitute for each other. It is also argued that labour’s power derived from its location in the economic system still stands as an essential source of labour renewal.
Effects of intensity of arm training on hemiplegic upper extremity motor recovery in stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Han Chao , Wang Qiang , Meng Ping-ping , Qi Ming-zhu
Published: July 2012

Objective:

To investigate the effects of different intensities of arm rehabilitation training on the functional recovery of hemiplegic upper extremity.

Design:

A randomized controlled trial.

Interventions:

Thirty-two stroke patients meeting the enrolment criteria were randomly divided into three groups: group A ( n = 11), group B ( n = 10) and group C ( n = 11). Each group received arm training for 1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours a day respectively, 5 days per week, for a period of six weeks.

Main measures:

Motor function was assessed by Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Action Research Arm Test and Barthel Index, carried out before treatment, two weeks, four weeks and six weeks after treatment.

Results:

When comparing the three groups, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment improvement was more significant in group C (20.50 ± 7.84) than that in group A (11.90 ± 6.52 ) and group B (13.80 ± 6.41) after four weeks of treatment ( P < 0.05). The Action Research Arm Test score improvement was more significant in group C (7.30 ± 2.95) than in group A (3.30 ± 2.91 ) ( P < 0.05). After six weeks of treatment, the Fugl-Meyer Assessment and Action Research Arm Test score improvements were more significant in group C (24.50 ± 7.96, 10.90 ± 3.60) and group B (19.70 ± 7.09, 8.70 ± 4.62) than in group A (13.00 ± 6.38, 5.30 ± 3.40) ( P < 0.05). There were no significant differences of Barthel Index among the three groups ( P > 0.05). In each group, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Action Research Arm Test and Barthel Index scores increased significantly after six weeks of treatment ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

An increase in the intensity of arm training might improve the motor function of the arm after stroke.
Do theories tell us what to see? The 19th-century observations of Darwin, Ramsay and Bonney on glacial features
Authors: Trudgill Stephen
Published: July 2012

Theories can lead us to omit or minimize certain observations when making an argument, or they may provide insights leading us to alternative arguments. Darwin did not see glacial features on his first visit to North Wales, UK, but on his second visit when he knew about glaciation he then saw it all around him. Glacial theorists such as Ramsay and Bonney discussed the relationship between glacial erosion and lake formation, arguing by analogy and comparison, but Bonney refused to be swayed by Ramsay’s theories, arguing the need for greater evidence and proof.
Therapeutic Developments in Friedreich Ataxia
Authors: Wilson Robert B.
Published: July 2012

Friedreich ataxia is an inherited, severe, progressive neuro- and cardiodegenerative disorder for which there currently is no approved therapy. Friedreich ataxia is caused by the decreased expression and/or function of frataxin, a mitochondrial matrix protein that binds iron and is involved in the formation of iron-sulfur clusters. Decreased frataxin function leads to decreased iron-sulfur cluster formation, mitochondrial iron accumulation, cytosolic iron depletion, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Cloning of the disease gene for Friedreich ataxia and elucidation of many aspects of the biochemical defects underlying the disorder have led to several major therapeutic initiatives aimed at increasing frataxin expression, reversing mitochondrial iron accumulation, and alleviating oxidative stress. These initiatives are in preclinical and clinical development and are reviewed herein.
Methylphenidate-Induced Acute Orofacial and Extremity Dyskinesia
Authors: Yilmaz Ayse Esra , Donmez Ahsen , Orun Emel , Tas Tugba , Isık Bunyamin , Sonmez Fatma Mujgan
Published: July 2012

Methylphenidate is a short-acting stimulant. In this article, the authors report a 7-year-old male patient who presented with orofacial and limb dyskinesia after his first dose of methylphenidate treatment for a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; he was also receiving sodium valproate treatment for epilepsy. Orofacial dyskinesia appeared 5 hours after methylphenidate administration, persisted for 10 hours, and had completely resolved within 2 days. Although limb dyskinesia after methylphenidate is a commonly reported side effect, to the authors’ knowledge this is only the second reported case to develop both orofacial and limb dyskinesia in the acute period after the first dose of methylphenidate. This case is reported to emphasize the potential side effects of methylphenidate, individual differences in drug sensitivities, and drug–receptor interactions via different mechanisms.
Diaphragmatic Weakness With Progressive Sensory and Motor Polyneuropathy
Authors: Gitiaux Cyril , Bergounioux Jean , Magen Maryse , Quijano-Roy Susana , Blanc Thierry , Bonnefont Jean Paul , Desguerre Isabelle
Published: July 2012

The authors present a child affected with diaphragmatic paralysis in the early neonatal period. Although no electroneuromyographic abnormalities were reported, the patient developed dramatic motor and respiratory impairment with impossibility to wean from mechanical ventilation. Repeated electroneuromyographic study at age 4 months revealed severe neurogenic changes and sensory nerve abnormalities with more preserved nerve conduction velocities. Genetic studies identified 2 mutations in the gene IGHMBP2. These results support the consideration of this entity as a form of sensory-motor rapidly progressive polyneuropathy rather than a primary anterior horn disease ( IGHMBP2-related neuropathy). A review of the series of mutated patients in the French National Database gives new insights of the incidence of this disease in France.
Delivering reform in English healthcare: An ideational perspective
Authors: Millar Ross , Mulla Abeda , Powell Martin
Published: July 2012

A variety of perspectives has been put forward to understand reform across healthcare systems. Recently, some have called for these perspectives to give greater recognition to the role of ideational processes. The purpose of this article is to present an ideational approach to understanding the delivery of healthcare reform. It draws on a case of English healthcare reform – the Next Stage Review led by Lord Darzi – to show how the delivery of its reform proposals was associated with four ideational frames. These frames built on the idea of ‘progress’ in responding to existing problems; the idea of ‘prevailing policy’ in forming part of a bricolage of ideas within institutional contexts; the idea of ‘prescription’ as top-down structural change at odds with local contexts; and the idea of ‘professional disputes’ in challenging the notion of clinical engagement across professional groups. The article discusses the implications of these ideas in furthering our understanding of policy change, conflict and continuity across healthcare settings.
Logo-Autobiography and Its Effectiveness on Depressed Korean Immigrant Women
Authors: Cho Sunhee , Bernstein Kunsook S. , Roh Soonhee , Chen Daniel C.
Published: July 2012

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of logo-autobiography (LA) as a therapeutic modality for Korean immigrant women suffering from depression and perceiving their lives as meaningless. A nonrandomized quasi-experimental study was conducted with pretest, posttest, and a 4-week follow-up test. Forty subjects—20 with antidepressants and 20 without—were divided quarterly and assigned to the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group reported a significant lower score on depressive symptoms ( F = 6.832, p = .013; F = 19.800, p ≤ .001) and a higher score on meaning of life ( F = 12.294, p = .001; F = 12.232, p = .001) than did the control group immediately after completing the LA and a 4-week follow-up. The LA was more effective for the subjects in the nonmedication group than in the medication group. In conclusion, LA is effective in reducing depressive symptoms and increasing a sense of meaning in life among Korean immigrant women suffering from depression.
Acoustic Cue Integration in Speech Intonation Recognition With Cochlear Implants
Authors: Peng Shu-Chen , Chatterjee Monita , Lu Nelson
Published: July 2012

The present article reports on the perceptual weighting of prosodic cues in question-statement identification by adult cochlear implant (CI) listeners. Acoustic analyses of normal-hearing (NH) listeners’ production of sentences spoken as questions or statements confirmed that in English the last bisyllabic word in a sentence carries the dominant cues (F0, duration, and intensity patterns) for the contrast. Furthermore, these analyses showed that the F0 contour is the primary cue for the question-statement contrast, with intensity and duration changes conveying important but less reliable information. On the basis of these acoustic findings, the authors examined adult CI listeners’ performance in two question-statement identification tasks. In Task 1, 13 CI listeners’ question-statement identification accuracy was measured using naturally uttered sentences matched for their syntactic structures. In Task 2, the same listeners’ perceptual cue weighting in question-statement identification was assessed using resynthesized single-word stimuli, within which fundamental frequency (F0), intensity, and duration properties were systematically manipulated. Both tasks were also conducted with four NH listeners with full-spectrum and noise-band-vocoded stimuli. Perceptual cue weighting was assessed by comparing the estimated coefficients in logistic models fitted to the data. Of the 13 CI listeners, 7 achieved high performance levels in Task 1. The results of Task 2 indicated that multiple sources of acoustic cues for question-statement identification were utilized to different extents depending on the listening conditions (e.g., full spectrum vs. spectrally degraded) or the listeners’ hearing and amplification status (e.g., CI vs. NH).
Selective eating in a 9-year-old boy: Family therapy as a first-line treatment
Authors: Murray Stuart Benjamin , Thornton Chris , Wallis Andrew
Published: July 2012

Whilst empirical studies continue to demonstrate the efficacy of family-based therapy in the treatment of adolescent anorexia nervosa, less comprehensive evidence exists in guiding the treatment of pre-adolescent eating disorders, which are typically characterised by a greater variety of symptom presentation. We present the case of a pre-adolescent male who met criteria for selective eating who was treated into full remission with eating-disorder-focused family therapy. This family-based intervention deviated significantly from recently manualised family-based therapy interventions, and we suggest continued exploration of family therapy techniques in the treatment of pre-adolescent eating disorders.
Delayed diagnosis of primary aldosteronism in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney diseases
Authors: Kao Chih-Chin , Wu Vin-Cent , Kuo Chin-Chi , Lin Yen-Hung , Hu Ya-Hui , Tsai Yao-Chou , Wu Che-Hsiung , Wu Kwan-Dun ,   TAIPAI study group
Published: July 2012

Hypertension is a frequent early manifestation of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Several mechanisms can cause hypertension in ADPKD patients, although, primary aldosteronism (PA) as a possible manifestation of hypertension in ADPKD is extremely rare. We retrospectively reviewed the Taiwan Primary Aldosteronism Investigation (TAIPAI) database, which listed a total of 346 patients diagnosed with PA. Of these 346 patients, only three cases of concurrent PA and ADPKD were identified. These patients presented with hypertensive crisis and hypokalemia, and subsequent testing revealed aldosterone-producing adenomas (APAs) that were removed by laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Postoperatively, aldosterone-renin ratios (ARRs) and potassium levels normalized, and blood pressure improved. The diagnosis of PA in ADPKD is extremely challenging because multiple renal cysts can obscure the identification of adrenal adenomas, and ADPKD is associated with hypertension in almost all cases.1 Because of frequent delays in the diagnosis of PA in ADPKD patients, future prospective studies to screen PA in hypertensive ADPKD patients may be necessary to evaluate the exact prevalence of coexistence of PA and ADPKD.
Dementia nurses’ experience of the Mental Capacity Act 2005: A follow-up study
Authors: Manthorpe Jill , Samsi Kritika , Rapaport Joan
Published: July 2012

Specialist community dementia nurses are an appropriate sample to investigate longer-term decision-making and end-of-life care planning. Implemented in 2007, the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) provides opportunities for assisting with planning and making decisions on others' behalf, and may be expected to be entrenched within clinical practice. We conducted follow-up qualitative interviews with 15 community-based dementia nurses to detect changes and developments in views and practices of the MCA. Thematic analysis identified recurrent themes and developed into a coding framework. At Time2, there was greater awareness of general and specific principles of MCA and greater confidence in using it. There was greater involvement in discussing planning finances, less so in end-of-life-care. Some participants were concerned about lack of understanding amongst other professionals and felt more public awareness was required. Supplementary training, opportunities for mentoring and supervision may develop greater confidence among dementia practitioners and support their roles in informing and advising people with dementia and carers.
Europe in crisis? Testing the stability and explanatory factors of the Europeanization of national public spheres
Authors: Königslöw Katharina Kleinen-von
Published: July 2012

Presenting new data for a large-scale longitudinal content analysis of newspapers in six European countries between 1982 and 2008, the article explores what has previously been described as the process of ‘segmented Europeanization’ of national public spheres. Expanding on the theoretical concept of political discourse cultures, the article tests the explanatory power of national and editorial political discourse cultures on the degree of Europeanization of national public spheres. The analysis reveals the persistent stability of the pattern of ‘segmented Europeanization’ in which national public spheres increase their monitoring of Brussels but not their efforts to connect with other European countries. Still, the revealed national differences pale compared to the transnational gulf existing between quality and tabloid newspapers which may ultimately represent a far greater threat to the legitimacy of the European Union than the persistent lack of discursive exchange among the European community of nations.
Carbogen gas and radiotherapy outcomes in prostate cancer
Authors: Yip Kent , Alonzi Roberto
Published: July 2012

Prostate cancer hypoxia is associated with inferior prognosis and resistance to treatment. The use of androgen deprivation therapy, both prior to and during radiotherapy, may exacerbate underlying hypoxia. Whilst larger radiation doses per fraction may achieve therapeutic gain, this is balanced by the reduced opportunity for re-oxygenation to take place during the course of treatment. Improving the underlying hypoxic tumour environment may therefore improve the treatment outcomes. Strategies to combat tumour hypoxia, with particular focus on the use of carbogen gas breathing concurrently with radiotherapy, is the subject of this review.