bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negative Feedback for Endothelial Apoptosis: A Potential Physiological Role for Fibroblast Growth Factor
Authors: Bolitho Christine , Xu Wei , Zoellner Hans
Published: November 2007

Although most physiologically important processes are regulated through negative feedback loops and numerous factors regulating endothelial apoptosis are identified, little is known about negative feedback mechanisms for endothelial apoptosis. Here we describe the release of soluble anti-apoptotic activity by endothelial cells undergoing apoptosis, and identify fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) as contributing to this. In brief, apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells was induced by serum deprivation and confirmed by transmission electron microscopy, DNA gel electrophoresis and a sub-diploid population seen by fluorescence-activated cell scanning analysis. Apoptosis was most rapid early during culture, and this was demonstrated to be due to the accumulation of soluble anti-apoptotic activity in experiments replacing culture medium with fresh medium, or alternatively returning conditioned medium to cells. FGF-2 antigen was detected in both conditioned medium and cell lysates, while neutralizing antibodies reduced the protective effect of medium conditioned by apoptotic endothelium. Experiments with the highly specific FGF-2 receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU5402 indicated that FGF-2 accounted for the protective activity. We propose FGF-2 negative feedback as potentially important in microvascular remodelling. This is consistent with the absence of a secretory signal sequence in FGF-2, as well as canalicular fragmentation, which is unique to endothelial apoptosis and appears to result in minor cytoplasmic leakage.
Safety of Deep Hypothermia in Treating Neonatal Asphyxia
Authors: Compagnoni Gilberto , Bottura Chiara , Cavallaro Giacomo , Cristofori Gloria , Lista Gianluca , Mosca Fabio
Published: November 2007

Background: Several studies have demonstrated the efficiency and safety of mild hypothermia (33°C) used for treating moderate encephalopathy. In animal models, deep hypothermia proved to be neuroprotective. Objectives: To determine the safety of whole-body deep hypothermia between 30 and 33°C in moderate-severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in newborn term infants. Methods: Mortality rates, incidence of brain damage detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and neurological outcomes of 39 term asphyxiated infants were retrospectively compared. A first group of patients (control group C) was treated with routine standard methods, a second group (MH) was treated with mild whole-body hypothermia (32–34°C) and a third group (DH) was treated with deep whole-body hypothermia (30–33°C), for 72 h. Mean arterial pH, basic excess (BE) and lactic acid in the blood were measured. Laboratory and clinical side effects of hypothermia were investigated. A conventional brain MRI was performed after the second week of life. Results: 39 term asphyxiated newborns were enrolled in the study: 11 in group C, 10 in group MH, and 18 in group DH. During the first 72 h, disseminated intravascular coagulation was recorded in 2 cases (18%) in group C, pulmonary hypertension in 2 patients (20%) in group MH, and pneumonia in 3 cases (16%) in group DH. Severe cerebral lesions and poor neurological outcome were observed in 4 cases (36%) in group C, 1 case (10%) in group MH, and 1 case (5%) in group DH. A statistically significant difference in brain damage and major clinical neurological abnormalities was observed between group C and groups MH and DH, whereas no differences were demonstrated between asphyxiated infants treated with mild or deep hypothermia. Conclusions: The results support the safety of deep hypothermia. Further studies are needed to confirm these results and the neuroprotective effect of this approach.
Preliminary Observations of Urinary Calcium and Osteopontin Excretion in Premature Infants, Term Infants and Adults
Authors: Rockwell Gary F. , Morgan Marielle J. , Braden Gregory , Campfield Thomas J.
Published: November 2007

Osteopontin is an acidic glycoprotein which may prevent nephrocalcinosis and nephrolithiasis by inhibiting the growth and retention of calcium oxalate crystals within the tubular lumen. The purpose of this study was to obtain preliminary data regarding urinary osteopontin in premature infants at risk for nephrocalcinosis. We examined urinary osteopontin concentration in premature infants, term infants and adults, and examined the relationship between urinary calcium and osteopontin concentration in these groups. The urinary osteopontin concentration of 17 premature infants of 3.7 ± 1.2 µg/ml was not significantly different from the urinary osteopontin concentration of 12 term infants of 6 ± 6 µg/ml, while the urinary osteopontin concentration in 23 urine specimens from adults of 27 ± 15 µg/ml was significantly higher than premature infants and term infants (p < 0.05). Urinary osteopontin concentration did not correlate with urinary calcium concentration in premature infants, while there was a correlation between the osteopontin/creatinine ratio and calcium/creatinine ratios in premature infants. Diminished urinary concentration of osteopontin may enhance the risk for nephrocalcinosis in premature infants.
Protein Expression of Osteopontin in Tumor Tissues Is an Independent Prognostic Indicator in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Dai Ni , Bao Quan , Lu Aiping , Li Jiyou
Published: November 2007

Objective: Osteopontin has been shown to facilitate the progression and metastasis of malignancies and to be of prognostic value in several human cancers. In gastric cancer, the protein expression of osteopontin has been found to be correlated with tumor invasion and metastasis, but data on its prognostic value are lacking. The aim of this study was to classify the prognostic significance of osteopontin in gastric cancer. Method: In this retrospective study, 306 tumor tissue samples resected from patients with gastric cancer were investigated by staining with a commercial polyclonal antibody against osteopontin. Results: Positive osteopontin expression (>5% of the cancer cell cytoplasm positive) was found in 132 (43.1%) of 306 stained tumors. High osteopontin expression correlated with deep invasion, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis and higher TNM stage. Patients with osteopontin-positive expression had poorer overall and disease-free survivals than those with negative expression (p < 0.001 for both). Multivariate analysis revealed osteopontin expression as an independent prognostic indicator of poor disease-free and overall survival in patients with gastric cancer, particularly for survival in TNM stages II (p < 0.05) and III (p < 0.01) patients. Conclusion: Osteopontin protein expression was confirmed as a new independent predictor of tumor recurrence and poor prognosis in patients with gastric cancer.
Cerebral Glucose Metabolism in Dizygotic Twin Pairs Discordant for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Virta Jyri J. , Karrasch Mira , Kaprio Jaakko , Koskenvuo Markku , Räihä Ismo , Viljanen Tapio , Rinne Juha O.
Published: November 2007

Positron emission tomography (PET) with 2-deoxy-2[18F]-fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) can be used to estimate regional cerebral glucose metabolism (rCMRgluc). FDG-PET studies have shown rCMRgluc to be reduced especially in temporal and parietal cortices in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). A previous study on monozygotic twins discordant for AD showed that the rCMRgluc of the non-demented twins is reduced significantly in the lateral temporal and parietal cortices compared to unrelated controls. In this study we examined 9 pairs of dizygotic twins discordant for AD with FDG-PET. The rCMRgluc of the demented twins was 16% lower in the prefrontal cortex (p = 0.04), 20% lower in the hippocampus (p = 0.002) and 15% lower in the lateral temporal cortex (p = 0.003) compared to controls. The non-demented twins showed no such reductions on any cortical region compared to unrelated control subjects. This implies that both genes and environment, and not genes alone, are causative in the pathogenesis of AD.
Expression of Nuclear Factor-kappaB Family Proteins in Hepatocellular Carcinomas
Authors: O’Neil Bert H. , Bůžková Petra , Farrah Hillary , Kashatus David , Sanoff Hanna , Goldberg Richard M. , Baldwin Albert S. , Funkhouser William K.
Published: November 2007

Purpose: Nuclear factor-ĸB (NF-ĸB) has been shown to be abnormally activated in some human hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), but most studies of NF-ĸB in patient samples have focused on the p65 subunit. Recent information has implicated IĸB family members (e.g. Bcl-3) as possible mediators of NF-ĸB activation. Therefore, we examined the expression of all NF-ĸB family members and downstream targets in HCC. Study Design: Archived HCCs from 30 patients were evaluated by immunohistochemistry for NF-ĸB family proteins, Bcl-3 and targets of NF-ĸB/IĸB function. Results were validated by Western blotting in frozen paired HCC and adjacent normal tissue in a subset of cases. Results: NF-ĸB p50 and p52 subunits were frequently localized to tumor cell nuclei (40 and 48%), whereas p65 positivity was infrequent. Bcl-3 was overexpressed in 90% of tumor cell nuclei compared with 26% of adjacent non-neoplastic liver (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Aberrant Bcl-3 nuclear expression occurs in the vast majority of HCCs compared with adjacent normal or cirrhotic liver tissue. Bcl-3 is known to interact with NF-ĸB p50 and p52 homodimers, and our study demonstrates very frequent nuclear colocalization of Bcl-3 and p50/p52, suggesting that the Bcl-3/p50 or Bcl-3/p52 interactions are important in HCC pathogenesis.
Significance of Genetic Polymorphisms at Multiple Loci of CYP2E1 in the Risk of Development of Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Ulusoy Gulen , Adali Orhan , Tumer Tugba Boyunegmez , Sahin Gurses , Gozdasoglu Sevgi , Arinç Emel
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: The molecular etiology of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is likely to involve interactions between environmental factors and genetic make up. Understanding these interactions between various predisposing genes for the risk of developing childhood leukemia is of considerable importance. CYP2E1 is a susceptible gene in this respect, especially for its capacity to bioactivate many procarcinogens including benzene and N-nitrosodimethylamine. The CYP2E1 gene possesses several polymorphisms in humans, and among them, CYP2E1*5B and *6 have been shown to be associated with increased risks of several chemical-induced diseases. There are limited and contradictory data on the association between the CYP2E1*5B variant allele and childhood ALL, and none on such associations of CYP2E1*6 and*7B variant alleles. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible association of CYP2E1*5B, *6 and *7B alleles, alone or in combination, with the risk of incidence of childhood ALL in a Turkish population. Methods: The genotypes for both polymorphisms were determined by polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques on 207 healthy controls and 168 patients. Results: Neither locus was associated with the occurrence of childhood ALL. On the other hand, when both CYP2E1*5B and *6 alleles were considered together, the risk of childhood ALL increased significantly (2.9-fold; OR = 2.9, 95% CI 1.0–8.5; p < 0.05). Moreover, the presence of at least 2 variant alleles of any combination increased the risk significantly 3.9 times, suggesting a combined effect (OR = 3.9, 95% CI 1.4–11.0). Conclusion: Individuals carrying combinations of CYP2E1*5B, *6 and *7B variants together are likely associated with the risk of developing childhood ALL.
Gain of 5p15.33 Is Associated with Progression of Bladder Cancer
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshiaki , Chochi Yasuyo , Matsuyama Hideyasu , Eguchi Satoshi , Kawauchi Shigeto , Furuya Tomoko , Oga Atsunori , Kang Jason J. , Naito Katsusuke , Sasaki Kohsuke
Published: November 2007

Objective: To search for a biological marker to distinguish low-risk from high-risk bladder cancer indicating disease progression. Methods: The whole genome-wide copy numbers were screened in 18 patients with bladder cancer using array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) consisting of 4,030 bacterial artificial chromosome clones. Results: Gain of 5p15.33, including TPPP (tubulin polymerization-promoting protein)and ZDHHC11 (zinc finger DHHC domain-containing protein 11) genes, was detected in 5 of 9 (55.6%) high-grade bladder cancers and no (0%; n = 9) low-grade bladder cancer. To confirm the preliminary data, 5p15.33 gain was studied by fluorescence in situhybridization (FISH) in 100 patients, and the results were compared with biological characteristics. In FISH analysis, gain of 5p15.33 was significantly correlated with higher histological grade (p < 0.0001) and advanced pathological stage (p = 0.0284). Tumors with a gain of 5p15.33 had a significantly higher progression-free survival rate than those without (p = 0.0006, log-rank test). Multivariate analysis revealed that gain of 5p15.33 was a predictor for disease progression in bladder cancer (hazard ratio: 1.887, 95% confidence interval: 1.215–2.968, p = 0.0050). Conclusion: These data suggest that gain of 5p15.33 (TPPP and ZDHHC11) may become a potential biomarker identifying high-risk patients with disease progression in bladder cancer.
Synchronous Endometrial Carcinoma and a Macroprolactinoma: Exploring a Causal Relationship
Authors: Sharma Anuradha , Sharma Manish S. , De Padua Michelle , Jha Urvashi P. , Jha Ajaya N.
Published: November 2007

Background: While unopposed estrogen hormone secretion is most commonly implicated in the pathogenesis of endometrial carcinoma, the role of prolactin has only recently been highlighted. The authors present a case of a synchronous endometrial carcinoma in a patient with a prolactin-secreting macroadenoma. Methods: A 29-year-old woman presented with a 4-year history of primary infertility, irregular periods and intermittent galactorrhea. Hormonal evaluation revealed elevated prolactin and subnormal luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) serum concentrations. An ultrasound of the pelvis revealed endometrial thickening. The MRI of the brain confirmed a pituitary macroadenoma. The patient underwent a resectoscopic polypectomy and dilation and curettage followed by transnasal transsphenoidal excision of the pituitary macroadenoma. Results: The biopsy of the endometrium revealed a well-differentiated endometrioid carcinoma while that of the pituitary tumor confirmed a prolactinoma. Conclusion: An indirect causal mechanism can be postulated to explain this association. Hyperprolactinemia inhibits gonadotropin-releasing hormone leading to subnormal FSH and luteinizing hormone levels. Though the patient is hypoestrogenic, chronic anovulation with unopposed estrogen secretion can increase the risk of endometrial carcinoma. Patients with prolactinomas and irregular menstrual bleeding should undergo endometrial sampling to rule out this possibility.
HFE Genotype Influences Erythropoiesis Support Requirement in Hemodialysis Patients: A Prospective Study
Authors: Valenti Luca , Valenti Giovanni , Como Giovanna , Santorelli Gennaro , Dongiovanni Paola , Rametta Raffaela , Fracanzani Anna Ludovica , Tavazzi Dario , Messa Pier Giorgio , Fargion Silvia
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: HFE protein controls iron absorption and cycling, and HFE mutations influence iron status. The aim was to evaluate the effect of the HFE genotype on the need for iron and erythropoietin in Italian hemodialysis patients. Methods: Ninety-six prevalent patients were evaluated at the time of enrolment and prospectively followed for 3 years. Patients were given r-HuEPO and Fe3+-gluconate according to guidelines. The HFE genotype was determined by restriction analysis. Results: Three patients (3%) carried the C282Y mutation, 4 (4%) were homozygous and 18 (19%) heterozygous for the H63D mutation, and 71 (74%) were negative for both. At enrolment, subjects positive for HFE mutations had higher iron stores (ferritin 617 ± 663 vs. 423 ± 386 ng/ml, p = 0.05), were receiving less iron (82.5 ± 66 vs. 110 ± 154 mg/month, p = 0.05) and a lower r-HuEPO dosage (98 ± 83 vs. 142 ± 138 U/kg/week, p = 0.03). Consistently during the study period, patients positive for HFE mutations received a lower amount of r-HuEPO (94.5 ± 63 vs. 186 ± 344 U/kg/week, p = 0.01) and iron (97 ± 63 vs. 121 ± 68 mg/month, p = 0.07). Upon Cox regression analysis, after adjustment for confounding variables, the presence of HFE mutations was associated with a reduced risk of death (HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.34–1.03, p = 0.06). Conclusion:HFE mutations reduce the amount of r-HuEPO and iron necessary to support erythropoiesis in hemodialysis.
Chronic Kidney Disease as a Risk Factor for Coronary Artery Disease in Chinese with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Chia , Hsiao Jeng-Yueh , Tien Kai-Jen , Chang Shun-Jen , Hsu Shih-Chieh , Liang Hui-Ting , Chen Hung-Chun , Lin Shiu-Ru , Tu Shih-Te
Published: November 2007

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the general population. We investigated the effects of renal function on coronary artery disease (CAD) in Chinese with type 2 diabetes who have a high risk of developing diabetic nephropathy but who may have a low risk of developing CAD. Methods: We recruited a total of 2,434 Chinese with type 2 diabetes (1,078 men and 1,356 women) and diagnosed CAD by history or with an abnormal electrocardiogram (coronary probable or possible by Minnesota codes). Renal function was evaluated by serum creatinine (SCr) levels, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (calculated by the abbreviated Modification of Diet in Renal Disease Study Croup formula) and urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR). Results: We found that patients with CAD were older, had higher SCr levels and body mass index (BMI), and had lower serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels. After adjusting for age, BMI, blood pressure, glycosylated hemoglobin, cholesterol, LDL-c, HDL-c, and triglycerides, we found that SCr levels >1.5 mg/dl, eGFR <60 ml/min, and urinary ACR >30 mg/g were independent risk factors for CAD in diabetic men, and that SCr levels >1.4 mg/dl and eGFR <60 ml/min were independently associated with CAD in women. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that Chinese with type 2 diabetes and CKD are likely to have had CAD previously and CKD is ‘CVD risk state’ in diabetic Chinese.
Octreotide and the mTOR Inhibitor RAD001 (Everolimus) Block Proliferation and Interact with the Akt-mTOR-p70S6K Pathway in a Neuro-Endocrine Tumour Cell Line
Authors: Grozinsky-Glasberg Simona , Franchi Giulia , Teng Mabel , Leontiou Chrysanthia A. , Ribeiro de Oliveira Jr. Antônio , Dalino Paolo , Salahuddin Nabila , Korbonits Márta , Grossman Ashley B.
Published: November 2007

Background/Aim: The mode of action of the somatostatin analog octreotide on neuro-endocrine tumour proliferation is largely unknown. Overexpression of the proto-oncogene Akt/PKB (protein kinase B) has been demonstrated in certain neuro-endocrine tumours: Akt activates downstream proteins including mTOR and p70S6K, which play an important role in cell proliferation. RAD001 (everolimus) is a novel agent that is being trialled in the treatment of neuro-endocrine tumours, and is known to interact with mTOR. We explored the mechanism of action of octreotide, RAD001, and their combination on cell proliferation and kinase activation in a neuro-endocrine tumour cell line (rat insulinoma cell line, INS1). Methods: Proliferation assays were used to determine the effects of octreotide, RAD001, and their combination on cell proliferation. Western blotting was used to characterize the expression of phosphorylated Akt, phosphorylated TSC2, phosphorylated mTOR, and phosphorylated 70S6K. Results: Treatment with octreotide and RAD001 inhibited proliferation and attenuated phosphorylation of all downstream targets of Akt: TSC2, mTOR, and p70S6K. Conclusions: In this cell model, octreotide and RAD001 appear to act through a similar pathway and inhibit the Akt-mTOR-p70S6 kinase pathway downstream of Akt. There may be some overlapping effects of the two inhibitors on the mTOR pathway, although it is likely that other additional effects may differentiate the two agents.
The Springboard: The Joy of Piezo Disk Pickups for Amplified Coil Springs
Authors: Leonardson Eric
Published: November 2007

The Springboard is a do-it-yourself instrument made from readily available materials: An amplified soundboard makes the vibrations of coil springs and a variety of other small and nonprecious objects audible. Thanks to a simple piezo contact microphone, the Springboard's humble constitution belies the richness of its sounds, a signature of the author's activities in live and recorded works across many art disciplines.
From Stethoscopes to Headphones: An Acoustic Spatialization of Subjectivity
Authors: Stankievech Charles
Published: November 2007

Working from a phenomenological position, the author investigates “in-head” acoustic localization in the context of the historical development of modern listening. Starting from the development of the stethoscope in the early 19th century, he traces novel techniques for generating space within the body and extrapolates from them into contemporary uses of headphones in sound art. The first half of the essay explores the history, techniques and technology of “in-head” acoustics; the second half presents three sound artists who creatively generate headphone spatializations. The essay ends with reflections on how these sound “imaging” techniques topologically shape our subjectivities.
Cyberinstruments via Physical Modeling Synthesis: Compositional Applications
Authors: Kojs Juraj , Serafin Stefania , Chafe Chris
Published: November 2007

This paper details compositional approaches in music for cyberinstruments by means of physical modeling synthesis. Although the focus is on compositions written with the models simulated by the digital waveguides, modal synthesis and mass-spring-damper algorithms, music written with other modeling techniques is also reviewed.
Effects of Radar Beam Shielding on Rainfall Estimation for the Polarimetric C-Band Radar
Authors: Friedrich Katja , Germann Urs , Gourley Jonathan J. , Tabary Pierre
Published: November 2007

Radar reflectivity (Zh), differential reflectivity (Zdr), and specific differential phase (Kdp) measured from the operational, polarimetric weather radar located in Trappes, France, were used to examine the effects of radar beam shielding on rainfall estimation. The objective of this study is to investigate the degree of immunity of Kdp-based rainfall estimates to beam shielding for C-band radar data during four typical rain events encountered in Europe. The rain events include two cold frontal rainbands with average rainfall rates of 7 and 17 mm h−1, respectively, and two summertime convective rain events with average rainfall rates of 11 and 22 mm h−1.

The large effects of beam shielding on rainfall accumulation were observed for algorithms using Zh and Zdr with differences of up to ∼2 dB (40%) compared to a Kdp-based algorithm over a power loss range of 0–8 dB. This analysis reveals that Zdr and Kdp are not affected by partial beam shielding. Standard reflectivity corrections based on the degree of beam shielding would have overestimated rainfall rates by up to 1.5 dB for less than 40% beam shielding and up to 3 dB for beam shielding less than 75%. The investigation also examined the sensitivity of beam shielding effects on rainfall rate estimation to (i) axis–ratio parameterization and drop size distribution, (ii) methods used to smooth profiles of differential propagation phase (ϕdp) and estimate Kdp, and (iii) event-to-event variability. Although rainfall estimates were sensitive to drop size distribution and axis–ratio parameterization, differences between Zh- and Kdp-based rainfall rates increased independently from those parameters with amount of shielding. Different approaches to smoothing ϕdp profiles and estimating Kdp were examined and showed little impact on results.
In Situ Calibration of the SeaBird 9plus CTD Thermometer
Authors: Uchida Hiroshi , Ohyama Kentaro , Ozawa Satoshi , Fukasawa Masao
Published: November 2007

A Sea-Bird Electronics (SBE 35) deep ocean reference thermometer is used with the SBE 9plus CTD system to calibrate the SBE 3 ocean thermometers of the CTD. The SBE 35 is standardized in water-triple-point and gallium-melting-point cells. The SBE 3 is calibrated with the SBE 35 under the assumption that discrepancies between SBE 3 and SBE 35 data are due to pressure sensitivity, the viscous heating effect, and time drift of the SBE 3. Based on the results of an in situ calibration, the pressure sensitivity and the viscous heating effect were evaluated for 11 SBE 3 thermometers. Three SBE 3s showed little pressure sensitivity, and eight had pressure sensitivities of 1–2 mK at 6000 dbar. The average viscous heating effect on the standard SBE 3 measurements was 0.5 mK. Both the accuracy and precision of the in situ calibrated SBE 3 data at depths greater than 2000 dbar were 0.4 mK relative to the SBE 35 reference.
Calibration of the Cloud Particle Imager Probes Using Calibration Beads and Ice Crystal Analogs: The Depth of Field
Authors: Connolly Paul J. , Flynn Michael J. , Ulanowski Z. , Choularton T. W. , Gallagher M. W. , Bower K. N.
Published: November 2007

This paper explains and develops a correction algorithm for measurement of cloud particle size distributions with the Stratton Park Engineering Company, Inc., Cloud Particle Imager (CPI). Cloud particle sizes, when inferred from images taken with the CPI, will be oversized relative to their “true” size. Furthermore, particles will cease to be “accepted” in the image frame if they lie a distance greater than the depth of field from the object plane.

By considering elements of the scalar theory for diffraction of light by an opaque circular disc, a calibration method is devised to overcome these two problems. The method reduces the error in inferring particle size from the CPI data and also enables the determination of the particles distance from the object plane and hence their depth of field. These two quantities are vital to enable quantitative measurements of cloud particle size distributions (histograms of particle size that are scaled to the total number concentration of particles) in the atmosphere with the CPI. By using both glass calibration beads and novel ice crystal analogs, these two problems for liquid drops and ice particles can be quantified.

Analysis of the calibration method shows that 1) it reduces the oversizing of 15-μm beads (from 24.3 to 14.9 μm for the sample mean), 40-μm beads (from 50.0 to 41.4 μm for the sample mean), and 99.4-μm beads (from 103.7 to 99.8 μm for the sample mean); and 2) it accurately predicts the particles distance from the object plane (the relationship between measured and predicted distance shows strong positive correlation and gives an almost one-to-one relationship). Realistic ice crystal analogs were also used to assess the errors in sampling ice clouds and found that size and distance from the object plane could be accurately predicted for ice crystals by use of the particle roundness parameter (defined as the ratio of the projected area of the particle to the area of a circle with the same maximum length). While the results here are not directly applicable to every CPI, the methods are, as data taken from three separate CPIs fit the calibration model well (not shown).
The Underway Conductivity–Temperature–Depth Instrument
Authors: Rudnick Daniel L. , Klinke Jochen
Published: November 2007

The development of the Underway Conductivity–Temperature–Depth (UCTD) instrument is motivated by the desire for inexpensive profiles of temperature and salinity from underway vessels, including volunteer observing ships (VOSs) and research vessels. The UCTD operates under the same principle as an expendable probe. By spooling tether line both the probe and a winch aboard ship, the velocity of the line through the water is zero, the line drag is negligible, and the probe can get arbitrarily deep. Recovery is accomplished by reeling the line back in. Recovering the UCTD has some advantages: 1) the cost per profile decreases with increasing use, 2) sensors can be calibrated postdeployment, 3) the UCTD carries a pressure sensor so depth is measured directly, and 4) no hazardous materials are left behind. The design goal for the UCTD was to obtain profiles deeper than 100 m at 20 kt (typical of a VOS). This goal has been surpassed, as it is able to profile to over 150 m at 20 kt and to over 400 m at 10 kt. The first operational use of the UCTD occurred during a May–June 2004 cruise, the purpose of which was to examine the effect of internal waves and spice on long-range acoustic propagation. Over 160 UCTD casts were completed, resulting in a hydrographic section with resolutions of 10 km horizontally and 5 m vertically.
A Study of a Bi-symmetric Electro-mechanical System through Umbra-Lagrangian Generated by Bondgraphs, and Noether's Theorem
Authors: Mukherjee Amalendu , Rastogi Vikas , Dasgupta Anirvan
Published: November 2007

This paper presents a dynamic analysis of an electro-mechanical system through the umbra-Lagrange's equation proposed in a previous paper, which includes dissipative and non-potential fields in a compact Lagrangian form. An eXtended Noether's theorem along with an umbra-Hamiltonian is employed to get invariants of motion, or possible invariant trajectories. The umbra-Lagrangian of this electro-mechanical system is obtained through an eXtended Karnopp's algorithm. The major contribution of this paper is the dynamic analysis eXploiting the symmetries of an electromechanical system comprising an eXternally and internally damped, symmetric, elastic rotor driven by a two-phase induction motor. For such a system the umbra-Lagrangian remains unchanged under two families of continuous transformations. The behavior of the limiting dynamics is obtained and validated through simulations. The stability issue of this system is also eXamined. Similar analysis is also eXtended to an identical rotor driven by a three-phase induction motor. As SO (2) symmetries are not obvious in this case due to the presence of three stator inertances, the three-phase induction motor is reduced to an equivalent SO (2) symmetric two-phase induction motor, to which the analysis is applied.
Odor Intensity in Apparel Fabrics and the Link with Bacterial Populations
Authors: McQueen Rachel H. , Laing Raechel M. , Brooks Heather J. L. , Niven Brian E.
Published: November 2007

Nine apparel fabrics varying in fiber (cotton, wool, polyester) and knit structure (1 × 1 rib, interlock, single jersey) were investigated for their retention of axillary odor following wear. As axillary odor results from bacterial metabolism of apocrine and sebaceous secretions, counts of total aerobic bacteria and corynebacteria on the fabrics were carried out. Odor intensity was strongly associated with the fiber type, with polyester fabrics rating high in odor intensity and cotton and wool mid-low odor intensity. A structure effect was apparent for polyester fabrics, with the lightweight single jersey fabric rated less odorous than the heavier-weight interlock and 1 × 1 rib structures. The relationship between fiber type and odor was not influenced by bacterial numbers present, with counts after one day similar for all fabrics. However, the number of bacteria declined more rapidly on polyester fabrics than on either the cotton or wool fabrics. Counts of odor-associated corynebacteria subgroup (A) remained largely unchanged on wool fabrics for 28 days.
Mechano-acoustical Discrimination of Hairy Fabrics from Neurosensorial Criteria
Authors: Praëne Jean-Maurice , Breugnot Cécile , Bueno Marie-Ange , Roll Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2007

The touch of fabric is a very complex subject. In this study, the human being was considered as a touch sensor. The tactile afferent messages elicited by the mechanoreceptors of the skin in response to textile stimuli were studied. These messages were recorded on non-sleeping human subjects, by a method named microneurography. In a previous paper, it was shown that a unitary activity of fast adapting or slowly adapting cutaneous receptors can make the difference between the same fabric with different hairiness i.e. before and after emerizing process with different intensities.
Internal Damage of Crimped Lyocell Fiber
Authors: Dadashian F. , Yaghoobi Z. , Wilding M.A.
Published: November 2007

The majority of synthetic and regenerated cellulose fibers are crimped after spinning in order to possess natural appearance and texture, warmth and handle. Depending on the circumstances in processing, fibers may experience complex combinations of tensile, compression, flexural and torsional, deformation, abrasion, etc. that may cause a variety of fiber damages. One of the most important applications of microscopy of textile fibers is in the study of damage. In this study optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the surface characteristic of lyocell fibers. More importantly, kink bands with sharp ridges and transverse lines in crimped lyocell fibers were observed. The angles between the kink band and the fiber axis were measured. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was applied, in combination with measurements of strength, fluidity and moisture regain to detect microstructural changes in lyocell fibers produced during crimping processing.
Textiles' Properties in the Infrared Irradiation
Authors: Xu Weilin , Shyr Teinwei , Yao Mu
Published: November 2007

When textiles are placed in the sunlight or infrared irradiation, they will undoubtedly absorb the energy and, thus, their temperature will increase. Behavior of the infrared or the sunlight in the textiles was analyzed in this paper. Transmission of the infrared in the textile decreased according to Lambert-Beer's law. Theoretical analyzed results showed that the textile temperature decreased according to Lambert-Beer's law from the front surface to the backside when the textile was placed in the infrared irradiation. A special index (β) was defined to express the textile's ability of infrared absorbing and temperature increasing properties. The results of some normal textiles tested showed that there were some differences in the infrared absorbing ability among different textiles. Textiles of silk could absorb the irradiation energy more effectively than textiles of cotton and wool. Polyester textiles absorbed less infrared irradiation energy than the aforenamed textiles. However, some ceramic coated textiles showed especially high absorbing efficiency in the infrared irradiation.
Development of Textile Electrode for Microbial Inactivation with Pulsed Electric Field
Authors: Kitajima Nobuyoshi , Ueda Kana , Ohshima Takayuki , Sato Masayuki
Published: November 2007

We have been studying pulsed electric field (PEF) inactivation of various bacteria, which is based on the destruction of biological membrane due to applying pulsed electric field. In this study, we report a novel treatment system based on the textile electrode, combination of polyester fiber and 0.2 mmφ metal wire. The efficiency of PEF inactivation of Escherichia coli cells depended on the peak voltage and the conductivity of the target solutions. Higher efficiency of PEF sterilization could be achieved with 7 kV of peak voltage and lower solution conductivity. When the solution conductivity was lower, some materials, which seemed to be bacterial residue, were sedimented on high voltage electrode.
Influencing the “People Who Count”
Authors: Gendreau Paul , Smith Paula
Published: November 2007

How is it possible to get influential policy makers and practitioners to attend to the importance of the findings from meta-analyses? Several approaches that will help to ensure that meta-analytic results will have maximum impact are prescribed. It is recommended that easily understandable metrics such as Pearson's r be employed. Furthermore, it is suggested that null-hypothesis significance testing be abandoned and replaced by confidence intervals and common language statistics that clearly describe the preciseness and magnitude of results. Finally, brief comments on some meta-analytic issues are offered.
Using Structural Equation Modeling With Forensic Samples
Authors: Meehan Jeffrey C. , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: November 2007

Because of its many advantages, structural equation modeling (SEM) has been used with increasing frequency in behavioral science, and it is a set of techniques that can be useful in analyzing forensic research data. Issues in SEM, including theory, estimation method, sample size and data requirements, identification, and fit indices are discussed. Using a sample of data from men arrested for domestic violence perpetration and court referred to treatment, examples of path analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and full structural models with latent variables are presented.
Taxometric Analysis
Authors: Ruscio John
Published: November 2007

Whether individual differences are treated as categorical or continuous has consequences for theory, assessment, classification, and research in criminal justice. Paul Meehl's (1995) taxometric method allows investigators to test between these two competing structural models. This article provides an overview of the method's inferential framework and data-analytic procedures. Because guidelines for implementing taxometric analyses and interpreting their results have received little research attention, investigators are encouraged to adopt an empirically grounded approach to taxometric analysis rather than following conventions or relying on personal opinion. The guidance afforded by Monte Carlo studies, including the two reported here, can be supplemented by simulating comparison data. This empirically grounded approach, described and illustrated below, helps to implement the taxometric method effectively and to draw valid conclusions.
The Latent Structure of the Criminal Lifestyle
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: November 2007

Three taxometric procedures, mean above minus below a cut (MAMBAC), maximum eigenvalue (MAXEIG), and latent mode factor analysis (L-Mode), were applied to the Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form (LCSF), the Psychological Inventory of Criminal Thinking Styles (PICTS), and a combination of the two in a group of 771 male federal prisoners. It was hypothesized that the rating scale (LCSF) would demonstrate taxonic structure and the self-report measure (PICTS) would demonstrate dimensional structure. The PICTS—dimensional relationship was found but the LCSF—taxon relationship failed to surface. When the four most valid and factorially meaningful PICTS scales were combined with the four LCSF sub-scales, there was clear and consistent evidence of dimensional structure in the criminal lifestyle.
Using Poisson Class Regression To Analyze Count Data in Correctional and Forensic Psychology
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: November 2007

The benchmark model for count data is the Poisson distribution, and the standard statistical procedure for analyzing count data is Poisson regression. However, highly restrictive assumptions lead to frequent misspecification of the Poisson model. Alternate approaches, such as negative binomial regression, zero modified procedures, and truncated and censored models are consequently required to handle count data in many social science contexts. Empirical examples from correctional and forensic psychology are provided to illustrate the importance of replacing ordinary least squares regression with Poisson class procedures in situations when count data are analyzed.
Histologic and Immunohistochemical Characteristics of Failed Articular Cartilage Resurfacing Procedures for Osteochondritis of the Knee
Authors: LaPrade Robert F. , Bursch Laura S. , Olson Erik J. , Havlas Vojtech , Carlson Cathy S.
Published: November 2007

Background

The histologic appearance of the repair tissue after articular cartilage resurfacing procedures in humans is not well documented.

Hypothesis

The histologic and immunohistochemical appearance of the repair tissues in failed articular cartilage resurfacing procedures will be similar, regardless of the procedure that was done, and will not resemble normal articular cartilage.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Graft tissue from 10 patients who underwent an autologous chondrocyte implantation (n = 6), microfracture (n = 3), or periosteal transplantation (n = 1) procedure to treat symptomatic osteochondritis dissecans of the medial femoral condyle was processed for histologic examination after failure of the articular cartilage resurfacing procedure. Serial sections from all slabs were stained with hematoxylin and eosin and toluidine blue and were immunostained using antibodies directed against types I, II, and X collagen.

Results

Specimens from all 3 types of repair procedures were composed primarily of fibrous connective tissue and fibrocartilage. None of the sections stained positively for type X collagen. All 10 cases stained positively for type I collagen (range, 7%–97% of tissue area). Staining for type II collagen was positive in 4 of 6 autologous chondrocyte implantation cases, 3 of 3 microfracture cases, and the periosteal transplant case (range, 2%–65% of tissue area). In 8 of 10 cases, the percentage of the section area exhibiting positive staining for type I collagen was higher than for type II collagen (6 of 6 autologous chondrocyte implantation; 1 of 3 microfracture; 1 periosteal transplant).

Conclusion

The histologic appearance of the repair tissue of 3 different failed articular cartilage resurfacing procedures was similar and did not resemble normal articular cartilage.
The Evaluation of Various Physical Examinations for the Diagnosis of Type II Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior Lesion
Authors: Oh Joo Han , Kim Jae Yoon , Kim Woo Sung , Gong Hyun Sik , Lee Ji Ho
Published: November 2007

Background

Many types of physical examinations have been used to diagnose superior labrum anterior and posterior lesions; no decisive clinical test is available for confirming the diagnosis.

Hypothesis

A selection from 10 well-established physical tests, alone or in combination, can be used to differentiate lesions with biceps anchor detachment from those with an intact biceps anchor with arthroscopic correlation.

Study Design

Case control study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Among 297 patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy between January 2004 and July 2005, 146 patients were enrolled in the study as a type II superior labrum anterior and posterior lesion group and an age-matched control group. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of each test and all possible combinations of 2 and 3 tests were analyzed. The same procedures were repeated in patients younger than and older than 40 years.

Results

The sensitivities of the Whipple, O'Brien, apprehension, and compression-rotation tests and the specificities of the Yergason, biceps load II, and Kibler tests were relatively high. No single physical examination was found to be simultaneously highly sensitive and specific for the diagnosis of a type II superior labrum anterior and posterior lesion. When 2 of the 3 relatively sensitive tests (O'Brien, apprehension, or compression-rotation test) were combined with 1 of the 3 relatively specific tests (Speed, Yergason, or biceps load II test), sensitivity and specificity reached approximately 70% and 95%, respectively. Similar trends were noted in the younger and older patient groups and in the isolated type II superior labrum anterior and posterior lesion group.

Conclusion

The data suggest that some combinations of 2 relatively sensitive clinical tests and 1 relatively specific clinical test increase the diagnostic efficacy of superior labrum anterior and posterior lesions. Requiring 1 of the 3 chosen tests to be positive will result in a sensitivity of about 75%, whereas requiring all 3 to be positive will result in a specificity of about 90%.
High-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy as a Treatment for Chronic Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Furia John P.
Published: November 2007

Background

High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic insertions Achilles tendinopathy. The results of high-energy shock wave therapy for chronic noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy have not been determined.

Hypothesis

Shock wave therapy is an effective treatment for noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy.

Study Design

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Thirty-four patients with chronic noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy were treated with a single dose of high-energy shock wave therapy (shock wave therapy group; 3000 shocks; 0.21 mJ/mm2; total energy flux density, 604 mJ/mm2). Thirty-four patients with chronic noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy were treated not with shock wave therapy but with additional forms of nonoperative therapy (control group). All shock wave therapy procedures were performed using regional anesthesia. Evaluation was by change in visual analog score and by Roles and Maudsley score.

Results

One month, 3 months, and 12 months after treatment, the mean visual analog scores for the control and shock wave therapy groups were 8.4 and 4.4 ( P < .001), 6.5 and 2.9 ( P < .001), and 5.6 and 2.2 ( P < .001), respectively. At final follow-up, the number of excellent, good, fair, and poor results for the shock wave therapy and control groups were 12 and 0 ( P < .001), 17 and 9 ( P < .001), 5 and 17 ( P < .001), and 0 and 8 ( P < .001), respectively. A χ2 analysis revealed that the percentage of patients with excellent (“1”) or good (“2”) Roles and Maudsley scores, that is, successful results, 12 months after treatment was statistically greater in the shock wave therapy group than in the control group ( P < .001).

Conclusion

Shock wave therapy is an effective treatment for chronic noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy.
The Potential for Volatile Phosphorus-containing Flame Retardants in Textile Back-coatings
Authors: Horrocks A.R. , Davies P.J. , Kandola B.K. , Alderson A.
Published: November 2007

A number of volatile phosphorus-containing flame retardant species has been identified as possible replacements for bromine-containing formulations used in textile back-coatings because of the need for vapor-phase activity. The selected retardants include tributyl phosphate (TBP), a monomeric cyclic phosphonate Antiblaze CU (Rhodia Specialites) and the oligomeric phosphate-phosphonate Fyrol 51 (Akzo). When combined with an intumescent char-forming pentaerythritol derivative (NH1197, Chemtura) and applied as a back-coating on to cotton and polypropylene substrates, significant improvements in overall flame retardancy are observed. One sample applied to cotton and comprising both TBP and intumescent passed the simulated match-ignition test, BS5852:1979:Part1 after a water soak at 40°C for 30 min. Determination of residual phosphorus within chars shows that there is significant volatile activity present in these formulations. Addition of volatile nitrogen as melamine also demonstrated improved flame retardancy in similar formulations.