bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Live migration of direct-access devices
Authors: Kadav Asim , Swift Michael M.
Published: September 2009

Virtual machine migration greatly aids management by allowing flexible provisioning of resources and decommissioning of hardware for maintenance. However, efforts to improve network performance by granting virtual machines direct access to hardware currently prevent migration. This occurs because (1) theVMMcannot migrate the state of the device, and (2) the source and destination machines may have different network devices, requiring different drivers to run in the migrated virtual machine.

In this paper, we describe a lightweight software mechanism for migrating virtual machines with direct hardware access. We base our solution on shadow drivers, an agent in the guest OS kernel that efficiently captures and restores the state of a device driver. On the source machine, the shadow driver monitors the state of the driver and device. After migration, the shadow driver uses this information to configure a driver for the corresponding device on the destination machine. We implement shadow driver migration for Linux network drivers running on the Xen hypervisor. Shadow driver migration requires a migration downtime similar to the driver initialization time, short enough to avoid disrupting active TCP connections. We find that the performance overhead, compared to direct hardware access, is negligible and is much lower than using a virtual NIC.
Don't change a thing
Authors: DiBernardo Michael
Published: September 2009

As a student of computer science, there's a significant chance you will end up working in software development after graduation. Despite whether your career path takes you into industry or academia, you're likely to have some kind of interaction with software development companies or organizations, if only in trying to get the most out of a project or collaboration.
On the Numerical Solution of Fractional Hyperbolic Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Ashyralyev Allaberen , Dal Fadime , Pinar Zehra
Published: September 2009

The stable difference scheme for the numerical solution of the mixed problem for the
multidimensional fractional hyperbolic equation is presented. Stability estimates for the solution of this
difference scheme and for the first and second orders difference derivatives are obtained. A procedure
of modified Gauss elimination method is used for solving this difference scheme in the case of one‐dimensional
fractional hyperbolic partial differential equations.
Chromatin Flow Cytometry Identifies Changes in Epigenetic Cell States
Authors: Obier Nadine , Müller Albrecht M.
Published: September 2009

We report flow cytometric protocols that quantitatively display the levels of different histone modifications on the single cell level. This method allows the rapid and simultaneous analysis of the global levels of chromatin marks in combination with other flow cytometric features. We show that chromatin flow cytometry identifies changes in epigenetic marks, such as histone acetylation and methylation, in drug-treated and differentiated mouse embryonic stem cell populations.
Precursor Processing of Human Defensin-5 Is Essential to the Multiple Functions in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Ishikawa Chisato , Tanabe Hiroki , Maemoto Atsuo , Ito Takahiro , Watari Jiro , Kono Toru , Fujiya Mikihiro , Ashida Toshifumi , Ayabe Tokiyoshi , Kohgo Yutaka
Published: September 2009

Human defensin-5 (HD-5) is one of the major antimicrobial peptides secreted by Paneth cells in the human small intestine. HD-5 is produced and stored as a propeptide in Paneth cell granules, secreted in response to stimulation by cholinergic reagents or bacterial antigens. The activation process by trypsin occurs in the intestinal lumen to produce mature HD-5. This study evaluated the difference between proHD-5 and mature HD-5 in bactericidal activity and induction of chemokine secretion in vitro. Mature HD-5 showed bactericidal activities against all bacterial strains. Though, proHD-5 without enzymatic cleavage possessed less antimicrobial ability against Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli but not against Staphylococcus aureus. Mature HD-5 also induced intestinal epithelial cells to increase the protein and mRNA levels of interleukin-8. Furthermore, the peptides were applied to dextran sulfate sodium-induced mouse colitis. The expression of endogenous mouse defensins was not changed in the small intestine, and the additional injection of exogenous HD-5 improved mortality (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated the multifunctional roles of the activation process in human defensin and the possibility of using antimicrobial peptides for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases in future applications.
Regulatory T Cells Modulate Postischemic Neovascularization
Authors: Zouggari Yasmine , Ait-Oufella Hafid , Waeckel Ludovic , Vilar José , Loinard Céline , Cochain Clément , Récalde Alice , Duriez Micheline , Levy Bernard I. , Lutgens Esther , Mallat Ziad , Silvestre Jean-Sébastien
Published: September 2009

Background—

CD4
+
and CD8
+
T lymphocytes are key regulators of postischemic neovascularization. T-cell activation is promoted by 2 major costimulatory signalings, the B7/CD28 and CD40–CD40 ligand pathways. Interestingly, CD28 interactions with the structurally related ligands B7-1 and B7-2 are also required for the generation and homeostasis of CD4
+
CD25
+
regulatory T cells (Treg cells), which play a critical role in the suppression of immune responses and the control of T-cell homeostasis. We hypothesized that Treg cell activation may modulate the immunoinflammatory response to ischemic injury, leading to alteration of postischemic vessel growth.

Methods and Results—

Ischemia was induced by right femoral artery ligation in CD28-, B7-1/2–, or CD40-deficient mice (n=10 per group). CD40 deficiency led to a significant reduction in the postischemic inflammatory response and vessel growth. In contrast, at day 21 after ischemia, angiographic score, foot perfusion, and capillary density were increased by 2.0-, 1.2-, and 1.8-fold, respectively, in CD28-deficient mice, which showed a profound reduction in the number of Treg cells compared with controls. Similarly, disruption of B7-1/2 signaling or anti-CD25 treatment and subsequent Treg deletion significantly enhanced postischemic neovascularization. These effects were associated with enhanced accumulation of CD3-positive T cells and Mac-3–positive macrophages in the ischemic leg. Conversely, treatment of CD28
−/−
mice with the nonmitogenic anti-CD3 monoclonal antibody enhanced the number of endogenous Treg cells and led to a significant reduction of the postischemic inflammatory response and neovascularization. Finally, coadministration of Treg cells and CD28
−/−
splenocytes in Rag1
−/−
mice with hindlimb ischemia abrogated the CD28
−/−
splenocyte-induced activation of the inflammatory response and neovascularization.

Conclusion—

Treg cell response modulates postischemic neovascularization.
Gender Distrust and Intimate Unions Among Low-Income Hispanic and African American Women
Authors: Estacion Angela , Cherlin Andrew
Published: September 2009

This article investigates levels of generalized distrust of men among low-income non-Hispanic African American, Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican and non-Hispanic White women in a three-city survey. The results reveal substantial variation. Hispanics’ overall levels of distrust are found to be higher than levels for either African Americans or Whites. Among Hispanics, however, Dominicans are the most distrusting group followed by Puerto Ricans, whereas Mexicans report levels of distrust that are comparable to those of non-Hispanic African Americans and non-Hispanic Whites. Married women are less distrusting than cohabiting women, who in turn are less distrusting than noncohabiting women. Nevertheless, distrust is not a significant predictor of a woman’s total number of lifetime marital and cohabiting relationships, and distrust only marginally predicts a woman’s desire to be in a steady relationship. We suggest that studies of trust in this population should focus more on attitudes displayed in specific encounters than on overall, generalized attitudes about gender distrust.
Regional Opportunities and Policy Initiatives for New Venture Creation
Authors: Verheul Ingrid , Carree Martin , Santarelli Enrico
Published: September 2009

This article investigates the determinants of new venture creation across industries and locations for 103 Italian provinces between 1997 and 2003. Allowing for differences in regional opportunities across industries, we investigate the impact of a range of factors, including policy initiatives, on new firm formation in manufacturing, retailing and wholesaling, hotels and restaurants. Our results show that regions with industrial districts are characterized by higher start-up rates in manufacturing and that wage costs deter entry in this industry. Firm entry in commercial sectors appears to be higher in large cities and areas with strong economic progress. For hotels and restaurants we find that tourism positively influences new firm formation. We do not find a significant effect of recently introduced regional laws promoting new firm formation in Italy.
Gender Dynamics and Role Adjustment During the Transition to Parenthood: Current Perspectives
Authors: Koivunen Julie M. , Rothaupt Jeanne W. , Wolfgram Susan M.
Published: September 2009

This review of recent literature addresses the issues of marital change across the transition to parenthood, the process of redefining gender roles, the division of labor in the family, striving for equally shared parenting, and the struggle to maintain egalitarianism after the birth of a child. Furthermore, this article also provides practice-related implications for practitioners, an inclusive term that includes family life educators, couple and family counselors and therapists, social workers, family service agency personnel, home health aides, and others working with couples and families.
Professional identity in the global sports entertainment industry
Authors: Kelly Peter , Hickey Christopher
Published: September 2009

In this article we discuss the ways in which the professional identity of Australian Football League (AFL) footballers — in a physical, high body contact sport — is shaped by concerns to develop different aspects of the body, mind and soul of the young men who want to become AFL footballers. Drawing on Michel Foucault’s later work on the care of the self we argue that narratives of identity necessarily involve a struggle for the body, mind and soul of these young men. Foucault’s work enables us to identify and analyse how relations of power, forms of regulation and arts of governing interact in ongoing attempts to develop the professional footballer. The article explores these issues via an analysis of the rationalities and techniques that inform talent identification and player management practices; and risk management in relation to these practices and processes in the AFL.
The impact of an international health study abroad program on university students from the United States
Authors: Fennell Reginald
Published: September 2009

Objective: International experience is paramount in society today. However, many US citizens have little understanding of the world beyond US borders. The purpose of this qualitative study was to (i) assess the impact of a study abroad program on students and (ii) the impact on the career goals of students who completed the program. Participants and Methods: Fall 2005 alumni ( N = 68) of an international health study abroad program were sent a mail survey. Results: Twenty-seven of the students who responded to the survey (61%) were currently in medical school, nursing school, or a master’s program. Conclusions: All students indicated the program influenced their global view of the world. Participants indicated the experience continues to have an impact on how they critically think about the world, including US politics. (Global Health Promotion, 2009; 16(3): pp. 17—23)
Pedagogical competence and value clarification among health educators
Authors: Wistoft Karen
Published: September 2009

Individual and social values are increasingly important in health education. This article examines how health educators in Greenland and Denmark engage in value clarification as part of their educational practices. It presents the results of a study of health professionals in a variety of settings, focusing in particular on how development work and experimentation can strengthen their pedagogical competences. The study focuses on belief, reasoning, interpretation and reflection, rather than routines, skills, or ethical rules, and takes a participatory approach that oscillates between dialogical and qualitative empirical methodologies. It observes pedagogical practice in selected settings in Greenland and the municipality of Copenhagen. Within the framework provided by four discourses that appear to organize communication about health, it shows how values became important to the progress of two research-based development projects. On this basis, the article argues that health education can be effectively grounde d in the values, perceptions, and experiences of a given population, while being guided by the health educators’ biomedical knowledge and educational values. (Global Health Promotion, 2009; 16(3): pp. 24—34)
Flow and sense of coherence: two aspects of the same dynamic?
Authors: Lutz Jonathan
Published: September 2009

Antonovsky’s sense of coherence (SOC) and Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of flow appeared approximately 20 years ago and have received widespread recognition as resource-oriented approaches within the fields of health and psychology, respectively. Both focus on the dynamics of engagement with life, flow on one’s level of engagement in the present and SOC on one’s global orientation — one’s self-perceived capacity for engagement over time. While the two constructs are very similar, even collinear, no attempt seems to have been made to integrate them. This article proposes that flow and sense of coherence are not only complementary but actually two aspects of the same dynamic: flow is sense of coherence made visible in the present, while sense of coherence is a product of flow over time. It is suggested that this hypothesis could be tested using existing or new empirical methods. If evidence is found to support the hypothesis, this could lead to a more useful, integrated model of the dynamics of engagement.
Rencontre francophone internationale sur les inégalités sociales de santé: État de situation, moyens entrevus et référentiels pour l’action en santé publique visant à réduire les inégalités sociales de santé
Authors: De Koninck Maria , Hébert Catherine
Published: September 2009

Les 17 et 18 novembre 2008, se tenait à Québec la Rencontre francophone internationale sur les inégalités sociales de santé . Nous présentons ici un bref état de la situation élaboré sur la base de constats dégagés des différentes activités de la Rencontre. Après un détour par l’histoire des luttes sociales, l’accent a été mis sur l’urgence d’agir pour réduire les inégalités sociales de santé. Plusieurs illustrations de l’existence de ces inégalités qui s’observent selon un gradient plus ou moins prononcé entre groupes sociaux étaient présentées. Le caractère multifactoriel des inégalités sociales de santé est apparu comme un défi, mais un défi qui n’est pas insurmontable. Des moyens et repères d’action proposés par les experts invités à Québec sont ici rapportés, soit des approches adaptées en recherche et des moyens qui font appel aux communautés et à l’engagement citoyen sans négliger la mobilisation des acteurs de santé publique pour l’équité en santé. (Global Health Promotion, 2009; 16(3): pp. 85—88)
Enhancement of thermal cracking and mechanical properties of H13 tool steel by shot peening treatment
Authors: Chang S-H , Tang T-P , Tai F-C
Published: September 2009

Shot peening treatment uses special steel shot media to impact the surface material at a high speed, thus resulting in a compressed and dense surface. The compressive stress provides higher resistance to thermal fatigue and stress corrosion cracking. To evaluate the effects of shot peening on thermal cracking and the mechanical properties of H13 tool steel, this study conducted impact, thermal fatigue and wear tests, as well as SEM microstructure and microhardness inspections. Experimental results showed that steel shot peening treatment, conducted for 30 min at 0·5 MPa on H13 tool steel reached the optimum for improving the microstructure and fatigue properties. The process can enhance the surface hardness to HV 561 and extend the limit of fatigue strength on H13 tool steel by two to three times. This technology can be successfully applied to die casting moulds to notably improve and extend tool life.
Effect of feedstock particle size on microstructure of APS coatings prepared from mechanically alloyed nickel–titanium powders
Authors: Verdian M. M. , Salehi M. , Raeissi K.
Published: September 2009

Ni–Ti coatings were deposited using APS process. In this regard, mechanically activated Ni–Ti powders with amorphous/nanocrystalline structure were used. Two different sieved powders, one of nominal size range of (–63 to +20 μm) and the other of nominal size of (–125 to +63 μm), were employed in the experiments. The phase composition and microstructure of the coatings were examined by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated that for coating produced using finer powder, increasing plasma power has caused severe cracking of the coatings whereas using the minimum power a coating with better quality can be deposited. In contrast, for coating produced using coarser powder, by selecting the medium power a coating with better quality can be deposited. Based on results of X-ray diffraction, the phase composition of coatings consists of NiTi, Ni4Ti3, Ni and some oxides.
Formation of bioactive titania films under specific anodisation conditions
Authors: Zhao Y , Xiong T-Y
Published: September 2009

Porous oxide films consisting of rutile titania and anatase titania were formed on the surfaces of Ti6Al4V via an anodic oxidation technique at a constant anodizing voltage of 30 V, using a special power supply in H2SO4 solution. During the anodic oxidation process, anodising current showed unusually high, inducing the formation of bioactive titania films at low anodising voltage. As electrical parameters, anodising voltage and current were equally important for the crystallisation of titania. The in vitro bioacitivity study showed that apatite began to appear on the anodically oxidised Ti6Al4V after 1 day immersion in 1·5 SBF. Results of SEM, EDS, FTIR and XRD confirmed the formation of poorly crystalline apatite containing carbonate. In addition, the formation mechanism of the apatite on the anodically oxidised Ti6Al4V was investigated. It is shown that the formation of Ti–OH groups with negative charges is the key to induce the apatite nucleation in simulated body fluid.
Recombinant canine B-domain–deleted FVIII exhibits high specific activity and is safe in the canine hemophilia A model
Authors: Sabatino Denise E. , Freguia Christian Furlan , Toso Raffaella , Santos Andrey , Merricks Elizabeth P. , Kazazian Haig H. , Nichols Timothy C. , Camire Rodney M. , Arruda Valder R.
Published: September 2009

Production of recombinant B-domain–deleted canine factor VIII (cFVIII-BDD) unexpectedly revealed superior protein yields with 3-fold increased specific activity relative to human FVIII-BDD (hFVIII-BDD). We also determined that activated cFVIII-BDD is more stable than activated hFVIII-BDD. Furthermore, cFVIII-BDD is efficient at inducing hemostasis in human plasma containing FVIII inhibitors. Infusion of cFVIII-BDD in hemophilia A dogs resulted in correction of the disease phenotype with a pharmacokinetic profile similar to clinical experience with hFVIII-BDD. Notably, immune tolerance challenges with cFVIII-BDD in young and adult hemophilia A dogs did not induce the formation of neutralizing or nonneutralizing antibodies to cFVIII. These data establish the framework to quantitatively investigate the efficacy and safety in preclinical studies of novel therapies for hemophilia A.
Development of a high-throughput method for the systematic identification of human proteins nuclear translocation potential
Authors: Hoat Trinh Xuan , Bertin Nicolas , Ninomiya Noriko , Fukuda Shiro , Usui Kengo , Kawai Jun , Hayashizaki Yoshihide , Suzuki Harukazu
Published: September 2009

Background

Important clues to the function of novel and uncharacterized proteins can be obtained by identifying their ability to translocate in the nucleus. In addition, a comprehensive definition of the nuclear proteome undoubtedly represents a key step toward a better understanding of the biology of this organelle. Although several high-throughput experimental methods have been developed to explore the sub-cellular localization of proteins, these methods tend to focus on the predominant localizations of gene products and may fail to provide a complete catalog of proteins that are able to transiently locate into the nucleus.

Results

We have developed a method for examining the nuclear localization potential of human gene products at the proteome scale by adapting a mammalian two-hybrid system we have previously developed. Our system is composed of three constructs co-transfected into a mammalian cell line. First, it contains a PCR construct encoding a fusion protein composed of a tested protein, the PDZ-protein TIP-1, and the transactivation domain of TNNC2 (referred to as ACT construct). Second, our system contains a PCR construct encoding a fusion protein composed of the DNA binding domain of GAL4 and the PDZ binding domain of rhotekin (referred to as the BIND construct). Third, a GAL4-responsive luciferase reporter is used to detect the reconstitution of a transcriptionally active BIND-ACT complex through the interaction of TIP-1 and rhotekin, which indicates the ability of the tested protein to translocate into the nucleus. We validated our method in a small-scale feasibility study by comparing it to green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion-based sub-cellular localization assays, sequence-based computational prediction of protein sub-cellular localization, and current sub-cellular localization data available from the literature for 22 gene products.

Conclusion

Our reporter-based system can rapidly screen gene products for their ability to be translocated to the nucleus. Large-scale applications of the system presented herein should provide invaluable information for a more complete biological atlas.
Imaging short- and long-term training success in chronic aphasia
Authors: Menke Ricarda , Meinzer Marcus , Kugel Harald , Deppe Michael , Baumgärtner Annette , Schiffbauer Hagen , Thomas Marion , Kramer Kira , Lohmann Hubertus , Flöel Agnes , Knecht Stefan , Breitenstein Caterina
Published: September 2009

Background

To date, functional imaging studies of treatment-induced recovery from chronic aphasia only assessed short-term treatment effects after intensive language training. In the present study, we show with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), that different brain regions may be involved in immediate versus long-term success of intensive language training in chronic post-stroke aphasia patients.

Results

Eight patients were trained daily for three hours over a period of two weeks in naming of concrete objects. Prior to, immediately after, and eight months after training, patients overtly named trained and untrained objects during event-related fMRI. On average the patients improved from zero (at baseline) to 64.4% correct naming responses immediately after training, and treatment success remained highly stable at follow-up. Regression analyses showed that the degree of short-term treatment success was predicted by increased activity (compared to the pretraining scan) bilaterally in the hippocampal formation, the right precuneus and cingulate gyrus, and bilaterally in the fusiform gyri. A different picture emerged for long-term training success, which was best predicted by activity increases in the right-sided Wernicke's homologue and to a lesser degree in perilesional temporal areas.

Conclusion

The results show for the first time that treatment-induced language recovery in the chronic stage after stroke is a dynamic process. Initially, brain regions involved in memory encoding, attention, and multimodal integration mediated treatment success. In contrast, long-term treatment success was predicted mainly by activity increases in the so-called 'classical' language regions. The results suggest that besides perilesional and homologue language-associated regions, functional integrity of domain-unspecific memory structures may be a prerequisite for successful (intensive) language interventions.
Two-stage case-control association study of dopamine-related genes and migraine
Authors: Corominas Roser , Ribases Marta , Camiña Montserrat , Cuenca-León Ester , Pardo Julio , Boronat Susana , Sobrido María-Jesús , Cormand Bru , Macaya Alfons
Published: September 2009

Background

We previously reported risk haplotypes for two genes related with serotonin and dopamine metabolism:MAOAin migraine without aura andDDCin migraine with aura. Herein we investigate the contribution to migraine susceptibility of eight additional genes involved in dopamine neurotransmission.

Methods

We performed a two-stage case-control association study of 50 tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), selected according to genetic coverage parameters. The first analysis consisted of 263 patients and 274 controls and the replication study was composed by 259 cases and 287 controls. All cases were diagnosed according to ICHD-II criteria, were Spanish Caucasian, and were sex-matched with control subjects.

Results

Single-marker analysis of the first population identified nominal associations of five genes with migraine. After applying a false discovery rate correction of 10%, the differences remained significant only forDRD2(rs2283265) andTH(rs2070762). Multiple-marker analysis identified a five-marker T-C-G-C-G (rs12363125-rs2283265-rs2242592-rs1554929-rs2234689) risk haplotype inDRD2and a two-marker A-C (rs6356-rs2070762) risk haplotype inTHthat remained significant after correction by permutations. These results, however, were not replicated in the second independent cohort.

Conclusion

The present study does not support the involvement of theDRD1,DRD2,DRD3,DRD5,DBH,COMT,SLC6A3andTHgenes in the genetic predisposition to migraine in the Spanish population.
Genomewide association study for onset age in Parkinson disease
Authors: Latourelle Jeanne C , Pankratz Nathan , Dumitriu Alexandra , Wilk Jemma B , Goldwurm Stefano , Pezzoli Gianni , Mariani Claudio B , DeStefano Anita L , Halter Cheryl , Gusella James F , Nichols William C , Myers Richard H , Foroud Tatiana ,   the PSG -PROGENI and GenePD Investigators, Coordinators and Molecular Genetic Laboratories
Published: September 2009

Background

Age at onset in Parkinson disease (PD) is a highly heritable quantitative trait for which a significant genetic influence is supported by multiple segregation analyses. Because genes associated with onset age may represent invaluable therapeutic targets to delay the disease, we sought to identify such genetic modifiers using a genomewide association study in familial PD. There have been previous genomewide association studies (GWAS) to identify genes influencing PD susceptibility, but this is the first to identify genes contributing to the variation in onset age.

Methods

Initial analyses were performed using genotypes generated with the Illumina HumanCNV370Duo array in a sample of 857 unrelated, familial PD cases. Subsequently, a meta-analysis of imputed SNPs was performed combining the familial PD data with that from a previous GWAS of 440 idiopathic PD cases. The SNPs from the meta-analysis with the lowest p-values and consistency in the direction of effect for onset age were then genotyped in a replication sample of 747 idiopathic PD cases from the Parkinson Institute Biobank of Milan, Italy.

Results

Meta-analysis across the three studies detected consistent association (p < 1 × 10-5) with five SNPs, none of which reached genomewide significance. On chromosome 11, the SNP with the lowest p-value (rs10767971; p = 5.4 × 10-7) lies between the genes QSER1 and PRRG4. Near the PARK3 linkage region on chromosome 2p13, association was observed with a SNP (rs7577851; p = 8.7 × 10-6) which lies in an intron of the AAK1 gene. This gene is closely related to GAK, identified as a possible PD susceptibility gene in the GWAS of the familial PD cases.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results suggest an influence of genes involved in endocytosis and lysosomal sorting in PD pathogenesis.
Augmentation of tibial plateau fractures with Trabecular Metal™: a biomechanical study
Authors: Benoit Benoit , Fouad Zhim , Laflamme George-Henri , Rouleau Dominique , Laflamme G Yves
Published: September 2009

Background

Restoration and maintenance of the plateau surface are the key points in the treatment of tibial plateau fractures. Any deformity of the articular surface jeopardizes the future of the knee by causing osteoarthritis and axis deviation. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of Trabecular Metal (porous tantalum metal) on stability and strength of fracture repair in the central depression tibial plateau fracture.

Method

Six matched pairs of fresh frozen human cadaveric tibias were fractured and randomly assigned to be treated with either the standard of treatment (impacted cancellous bone graft stabilized by two 4.5 mm screws under the comminuted articular surface) or the experimental method (the same screws supporting a 2 cm diameter Trabecular Metal (TM) disc placed under the comminuted articular surface). Each tibia was tested on a MTS machine simulating immediate postoperative load transmission with 500 Newton for 10,000 cycles and then loaded to failure to determine the ultimate strength of the construct.

Results

The trabecular metal construct showed 40% less caudad displacement of the articular surface (1, 32 ± 0.1 mm vs. 0, 80 ± 0.1 mm) in cyclic loading (p < 0.05). Its mechanical failure occurred at a mean of 3275 N compared to 2650 N for the standard of care construct (p < 0, 05).

Conclusion

The current study shows the biomechanical superiority of the trabecular metal construct compared to the current standard of treatment with regards to both its resistance to caudad displacement of the articular surface in cyclic loading and its strength at load to failure.
Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Aerobic Exercise on Physical Functioning and Quality of Life in Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Courneya Kerry S. , Sellar Christopher M. , Stevinson Clare , McNeely Margaret L. , Peddle Carolyn J. , Friedenreich Christine M. , Tankel Keith , Basi Sanraj , Chua Neil , Mazurek Alex , Reiman Tony
Published: September 2009

Purpose

Lymphoma patients commonly experience declines in physical functioning and quality of life (QoL) that may be reversed with exercise training.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled trial in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, between 2005 and 2008 that stratified 122 lymphoma patients by major disease type and current treatment status and randomly assigned them to usual care (UC; n = 62) or 12 weeks of supervised aerobic exercise training (AET; n = 60). Our primary end point was patient-rated physical functioning assessed by the Trial Outcome Index-Anemia. Secondary end points were overall QoL, psychosocial functioning, cardiovascular fitness, and body composition.

Results

Follow-up assessment for our primary end point was 96% (117 of 122) at postintervention and 90% (110 of 122) at 6-month follow-up. Median adherence to the supervised exercise program was 92%. At postintervention, AET was superior to UC for patient-rated physical functioning (mean group difference, +9.0; 95% CI, 2.0 to 16.0; P = .012), overall QoL (P = .021), fatigue (P = .013), happiness (P = .004), depression (P = .005), general health (P < .001), cardiovascular fitness (P < .001), and lean body mass (P = .008). Change in peak cardiovascular fitness mediated the change in patient-rated physical functioning. AET did not interfere with chemotherapy completion rate or treatment response. At 6-month follow-up, AET was still borderline or significantly superior to UC for overall QoL (P = .054), happiness (P = .034), and depression (P = .009) without an increased risk of disease recurrence/progression.

Conclusion

AET significantly improved important patient-rated outcomes and objective physical functioning in lymphoma patients without interfering with medical treatments or response. Exercise training to improve cardiovascular fitness should be considered in the management of lymphoma patients.
Underuse of Breast Cancer Adjuvant Treatment: Patient Knowledge, Beliefs, and Medical Mistrust
Authors: Bickell Nina A. , Weidmann Jessica , Fei Kezhen , Lin Jenny J. , Leventhal Howard
Published: September 2009

Purpose

Little is known about why women with breast cancer who have surgery do not receive proven effective postsurgical adjuvant treatments.

Methods

We surveyed 258 women who recently underwent surgical treatment at six New York City hospitals for early-stage breast cancer about their care, knowledge, and beliefs about breast cancer and its treatment. As per national guidelines, all women should have received adjuvant treatment. Adjuvant treatment data were obtained from inpatient and outpatient charts. Factor analysis was used to create scales scored to 100 of treatment beliefs and knowledge, medical mistrust, and physician communication about treatment. Bivariate and multivariate analyses assessed differences between treated and untreated women.

Results

Compared with treated women, untreated women were less likely to know that adjuvant therapies increase survival (on a 100-point scale; 66 v 75; P < .0001), had greater mistrust (64 v 53; P = .001), and had less self-efficacy (92 v 97; P < .05); physician communication about treatment did not affect patient knowledge of treatment benefits (r = 0.8; P = .21). Multivariate analysis found that untreated women were more likely to be 70 years or older (adjusted relative risk [aRR], 1.11; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.13), to have comorbidities (aRR, 1.10; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.12), and to express mistrust in the medical delivery system (aRR, 1.003; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.007), even though they were more likely to believe adjuvant treatments were beneficial (aRR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.98 to 0.99; model c, 0.84; P ≤ .0001).

Conclusion

Patient knowledge and beliefs about treatment and medical mistrust are mutable factors associated with underuse of effective adjuvant therapies. Physicians may improve cancer care by ensuring that discussions about adjuvant therapy include a clear presentation of the benefits, not just the risks of treatment, and by addressing patient trust in and concerns about the medical system.
The Uncapacitated Time-Space Fixed-Charge Network Flow Problem: An Empirical Investigation of Procedures for Arc Capacity Assignment
Authors: Kennington Jeffery L. , Nicholson Charles D.
Published: September 2009

The nodes and arcs of a network configuration replicated over time is a common structure found in many applications, particularly in the area of logistics. A common cost structure for flows in arcs for such problems involves both a fixed and variable cost. Combining the two concepts results in the uncapacitated time-space fixed-charge network flow problem. These problems can be modeled as mixed binary linear programs and can be solved with commercial software. To create these models for uncapacitated arcs requires determining artificial arc capacities that are sufficiently large so that the solution space has not been altered but are small enough that the linear programming relaxations are tight. In this investigation, we present a strategy for determining these artificial arc capacities for any time-space fixed-charge network flow problem. In extensive empirical tests, we provide statistical evidence that the strategy is superior to the usual techniques applied to this class of problem. Many of the most difficult problems were solved in only 5% of the computational time required by standard techniques.
Laboratory Evaluation of Geogrid Base Reinforcement and Corresponding Instrumentation Program
Authors: Chen Qiming , Abu-Farsakh Murad , Tao Mingjiang
Published: September 2009

The performance of geogrid base reinforcement in pavement on weak subgrade under cyclic plate load testing was studied. The performance of instrumentation sensors was also evaluated to improve future instrumentation programs. The tests were conducted inside a test box of dimensions of 2.0×2.0×1.7 m3 using a servo-hydraulic actuator. A 40-kN load at a frequency of 0.77 Hz was applied through a 305-mm-diameter steel plate. The sensors used included linear variable displacement transducers, pressure cells, bondable foil strain gages, and piezometers. The test results showed that the inclusion of geogrid at the subgrade/base course layer interface can significantly improve the performance of flexible pavement on weak subgrade (California bearing ratio=0.5 %) and that the traffic benefit ratio can be increased up to 3.5 for a rutting depth of 25 mm. The test results also showed that the reinforcement can redistribute the applied load to a wider area, thus achieving an improved stress distribution on the subgrade, which will eventually reduce the permanent deformation of subgrade. The bondable foil strain gages are unsuitable for long-time continuous monitoring of strain development within geogrid under high number of cyclic loading.
How Does Solute-Polarization Affect the Hydrophobic Hydration of Methane?
Authors: Paschek Dietmar
Published: September 2009

We simulate the solubility and solvation free energy of methane dissolved in water at infinite dilution. Molecular dynamics simulations of TIP4P-Ew model water are carried out at ambient pressure conditions over a large temperature interval, ranging from 250 K to 370 K. Solvation free energies are determined using the Widom particle insertion method. The fitted temperature dependent data is used to calculate solvation enthalpies, entropies, as well as the heat capacity of solvation. In particular we study the effect of polarizability of methane on those thermodynamic parameters. Solute polarization leads to a lowering of the solvation free energy at 298 K to 8.3 kJ mol−1, almost exactly matching the experimental value. A close inspection of the enthalpic and entropic contributions, however, reveals that this coincidence is a consequence of a compensation of enthalpic and entropic contributions, each of them deviating even larger from their respective experimental values. Surprisingly, the solute polarizability is apparently affecting the solvation entropy more strongly than the solvation enthalpy, leading to an about 5 J K−1 mol−1 smaller (less negative) solvation entropy compared to the non-polarizable model. The solute-water radial distribution functions of the polarizable particle reveals significant modifications, favoring small distances, as well as structural changes, very similar to those caused by a temperature increase. This is suggesting that the reduced negative solvation entropy of a polarizable methane particle is related to a more disordered, "high-temperature"-like hydration shell.
Rigid Molecule Approximation in Memory Function-based Models for Molecular Liquids: Application to Liquid Water
Authors: Calandrini V. , Sutmann G. , Deriu Antonio , Kneller G. R.
Published: September 2009

In the present article we show how models for simple liquids can be used to describe the dynamics of atoms in molecular liquids within the rigid molecule approximation. We show in particular that the atomic masses are to be replaced by the corresponding Sachs-Teller masses and we derive a formal expression for the so-called Einstein frequency. The approach is illustrated for a model which has been originally developed for simple liquids and which has been used in the past to analyze quasielastic neutron scattering data from pure water and dilute aqueous solutions of apolar molecules. We obtain a remarkable agreement with results from molecular dynamics simulations not only in the quasielastic, diffusive regime, but also in the inelastic regime corresponding to intermolecular vibrations and fast molecular librations.
Requirement for the ERI/DICER Complex in Endogenous RNA Interference and Sperm Development in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Pavelec Derek M , Lachowiec Jennifer , Duchaine Thomas F , Smith Harold E , Kennedy Scott
Published: September 2009

Small regulatory RNAs are key regulators of gene expression. One class of small regulatory RNAs, termed the endogenous small interfering RNAs (endo siRNAs), is thought to negatively regulate cellular transcripts via an RNA interference (RNAi)-like mechanism termed endogenous RNAi (endo RNAi). A complex of proteins composed of ERI-1/3/5, RRF-3, and DICER (the ERI/DICER complex) mediates endo RNAi processes in Caenorhabditis elegans. We conducted a genetic screen to identify additional components of the endo RNAi machinery. Our screen recovered alleles of eri-9, which encodes a novel DICER-interacting protein, and a missense mutation within the helicase domain of DICER [DCR-1(G492R)]. ERI-9(−) and DCR-1(G492) animals exhibit defects in endo siRNA expression and a concomitant failure to regulate mRNAs that exhibit sequence homology to these endo siRNAs, indicating that ERI-9 and the DCR-1 helicase domain function in the C. elegans endo RNAi pathway. We define a subset of Eri mutant animals (including eri-1, rrf-3, eri-3, and dcr-1, but not eri-9 or ergo-1) that exhibit temperature-sensitive, sperm-specific sterility and defects in X chromosome segregation. Among these mutants we find multiple aberrations in sperm development beginning with cytokinesis and extending through terminal differentiation. These results identify novel components of the endo RNAi machinery, demonstrate differential requirements for the Eri factors in the sperm-producing germline, and begin to delineate the functional requirement for the ERI/DICER complex in sperm development.
Effect of mineral fertilization on poppy ( Papaver somniferum L.) grown on calcareous sandy soil
Authors: Kádár Imre
Published: September 2009

Duna–Tisza közi karbonátos homoktalajon, az MTA TAKI Őrbottyáni Kísérleti Telepén beállított NPK-műtrágyázási tartamkísérlet 28. évében, 1998-ban vizsgáltuk a műtrágyázás hatását a mák fejlődésére, termésére és elemfelvételére, valamint a talaj AL-oldható PK-tartalmának változására. A termőhely talaja a főbb tápelemekben (N, P, K) gyengén ellátott, a szántott réteg 1% körüli CaCO3-ot és 1% humuszt tartalmaz. Az altalaj erősen meszes, az agyagos rész 5–10%. A talajvíz 8–10 m mélyen található, a terület aszályérzékeny. A műtrágyákat pétisó, szuperfoszfát és kálisó formájában alkalmaztuk. A N-adagot megosztva, felét ősszel, a másik felét tavasszal fejtrágyaként, a PK-műtrágyát ősszel, szántás előtt szórtuk ki. A levonható főbb tanulságok: – A kontrollon mért 0,22 t/ha magtermést az NP-trágyázás átlagosan megkétszerezte, míg a kiegészítő K-trágyázással közel 3-szorosára emelkedett. Hasonló módon és arányban nőtt a tok és a szalma tömege az NPK-trágyázással. A mák igényelte a talaj AL-oldható P2O5- és K2O-tartalmának 150–200 mg/kg értékre való növelését a szántott rétegben. – Az NP-szinteken megemelkedett a szárban és részben a tokban a N-, S-, P- és Sr-, valamint visszaesett a Zn-tartalom. A K-trágyázással nőtt a K- és mérséklődött a Sr-koncentráció. Az NP-trágyázás serkentette a N, P, Sr, Zn és Cu elemek beépülését a magban, gátolta viszont a Zn és B felvételét. A K–Sr antagonizmus helyett K–Sr szinergizmus volt ugyanitt megfigyelhető. – A mag N, P, Mn, Zn és Cu, a tok K, S, B és Na, a szár Ca és Sr elemekben volt a leggazdagabb. A kis termés elemfelvétele is kicsi maradt. Az ún. fajlagos elemtartalma 73 kg N, 23 kg P (53 kg P2O5), 92 kg K (110 kg K2O), 92 kg Ca (129 kg CaO), 15 kg Mg (25 kg MgO) mennyiséget tett ki a kísérlet átlagában. – A szaktanácsadásban, a tervezett termés elemszükségletének számításakor továbbra is mérvadónak tekintjük az általunk korábban közölt 100–40–120 = N–P2O5–K2O kg/t mag + melléktermésre javasolt fajlagos irányszámokat.
Top-Down Approach to the Fabrication of GaN-based Photonic Crystal Biosensor
Authors: Hamza B. M. , Yalamanchili H. , Andagana H. , Cao X. , Hornak L. A. , Dawson J. M. , Korakakis D.
Published: September 2009

Combining optics and microfluidics to create a portable optofluidic photonic crystal (PhC) biosensor is an approach with promising applications in the fields of counter-terrorism, agricultural sciences, and health sciences. Presented here are fabrication processes of a gallium nitride (GaN)-based PhC biosensor with a resonance-enhanced fluorescence detection mechanism that shows potential for meeting the single molecule detection requirements of these application areas. GaN is being targeted as the photonic crystal slab material for two main reasons: its transparency in the visible spectral range, within which the excitation and emission wavelengths of the commercial fluorescent-labeling dyes fall, and its intrinsic thermal stability which provides an increased flexibility of operating in different environments. Optical modeling efforts indicate a 25-fold enhancement of the fluorescent emission in this portable fluorescentbased PhC biosensor.
Material Properties, Thermal Stabilities and Electrical Characteristics of Ge MOS Devices, Depending on Oxidation States of Ge Oxide: Monoxide [GeO(II)] and Dioxide [GeO2(IV)]
Authors: Kamata Yoshiki , Takashima Akira , Tezuka Tsutomu
Published: September 2009

Ge monoxide [GeO(II)] and dioxide [GeO2(IV)], which are selectively formed on Ge substrate by controlling pH and redox potential in pretreatment solution, are confirmed by XPS. ΔEC in GeO(II)/Ge and GeO2(IV)/Ge are almost the same, whereas ΔEV in GeO(II)/Ge is smaller than that in GeO2(IV)/Ge, resulting in smaller Eg of GeO(II). GeO(g) desorption is suppressed in LaAlO3/Ge gate stack, whereas GeO(g) desorbs through LaAlO3 layer when there is an intentional interfacial GeO(II) layer, leading to a large increase in Jg. GeO(g) desorption temperature in Ge oxide/Ge gate stacks decreases with the increase in the ratio of GeO(II) in Ge oxide and is independent of the oxidation techniques. Since GeO(g) desorption is accompanied by H2O(g) desorption, a new model to explain the GeO(g) desorption phenomena is proposed, in which Ge(OH)2 decomposes into GeO(g) and H2O(g). Highly effective etching methods of Ge oxide, using HCl solution and HCl vapor at higher temperature than boiling point of Ge (hydro-)chloride are demonstrated.
XPS Method to Study the Effect of Heat Treatments and Environment on the Electric Dipole Formation at Metal/High-κ Dielectric Interface
Authors: Zenkevich Andrei , Lebedinski Yuri , Matveyev Yuri , Tronin Vladimir
Published: September 2009

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique is employed in situ to quantify changes in the electric dipole formed at the metal/dielectric interface. The proposed method is valid in the particular case of discontinuous metal overlayer in contact with dielectric, and allows one to model metal gate effective work function evolution of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) stack following its treatments in different environments. The obtained results on Au / dielectric (dielectric=HfO2, LaAlO3) corroborate the model that the oxygen vacancies generated in dielectric contribute to the effective work function changes.