bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Program behavior prediction using a statistical metric model
Authors: Sarikaya Ruhi , Isci Canturk , Buyuktosunoglu Alper
Published: June 2010

Adaptive computing systems rely on predictions of program behavior to understand and respond to the dynamically varying application characteristics. This study describes an accurate statistical workload metric modeling scheme for predicting program phases. Our evaluations demonstrate the superior performance of this predictor over existing predictors on a wide range of benchmarks. This prediction accuracy lends itself to improved power-performance trade-offs when applied to dynamic power management.
Distributed user profiling via spectral methods
Authors: Tomozei Dan-Cristian , Massoulié Laurent
Published: June 2010

User profiling is a useful primitive for constructing personalized services, such as content recommendation. In the present work we investigate the feasibility of user profiling in a distributed setting, with no central authority and only local information exchanges between users. Our main contributions are: (i)~We propose a spectral clustering technique, and prove its ability to recover unknown user profiles with only few measures of affinity between users. (ii)~We develop distributed algorithms which achieve an embedding of users into a low-dimensional space, based on spectral transformation. These involve simple message passing among users, and provably converge to the desired embedding.
Typically-correct derandomization
Authors: Shaltiel Ronen
Published: June 2010

A fundamental question in complexity theory is whether every randomized polynomial time algorithm can be simulated by a deterministic polynomial time algorithm (that is, whether BPP=P). A beautiful theory of derandomization was developed in recent years in attempt to solve this problem.

In this article we survey some recent work on relaxed notions of derandomization that allow the deterministic simulation to err on some inputs. We use this opportunity to also provide a brief overview to some results and research directions in "classical derandomization".
Structure and algorithms in the SINR wireless model
Authors: Lotker Zvi , Peleg David
Published: June 2010

The signal-to-interference & noise ratio (SINR) model is one of the most commonly studied physical (or fading channel) models for wireless networks. We survey some recent studies aiming at achieving a better understanding of the SINR model and its structural properties and developing efficient design algorithms and communication protocols for it.
PPAR Modulation of Kinase-Linked Receptor Signaling in Physiology and Disease
Authors: Rotman Nicolas , Wahli Walter
Published: June 2010

Kinase-linked receptors and nuclear receptors connect external cues to gene transcription. Among nuclear receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are of special interest in relation to widespread human diseases. Mapping out connections between PPARs and kinase-linked receptor signaling is central to better understand physiological and pathophysiological processes and to better define therapeutic strategies. This is the aim of the present review.
Exploring Transmembrane Diffusion Pathways With Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Wang Yi , Shaikh Saher A. , Tajkhorshid Emad
Published: June 2010

Transmembrane exchange of materials is a fundamental process in biology. Molecular dynamics provides a powerful method to investigate in great detail various aspects of the phenomenon, particularly the permeation of small uncharged molecules, which continues to pose a challenge to experimental studies. We will discuss some of the recent simulation studies investigating the role of lipid-mediated and protein-mediated mechanisms in permeation of water and gas molecules across the membrane.
Synthesis and Supramolecular Structure of a (5‐(3‐(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)phenyl)‐1H‐tetrazole) Cobalt Complex
Authors: Kostakis George E. , Anson Christopher E. , Powell Annie K.
Published: June 2010

The reaction of CoCl2·6H2O with m‐BDTH2 (1,3‐benzeneditetrazol‐5‐yl) leads to (1). Both tetrazolic groups remain protonated existing in a 1H tautomeric form. A trifurcated chlorine atom and stacking interactions assemble compound 1 into a three‐dimensional network.
Influence of Asymmetric Mesh Stiffness on Dynamics of Spiral Bevel Gear Transmission System
Authors: Yinong Li , Guiyan Li , Ling Zheng
Published: June 2010

An 8‐DOF (degrees‐of‐freedom) nonlinear dynamic model of a spiral bevel gear pair which involves time‐varying mesh stiffness, transmission error, backlash, and asymmetric mesh stiffness is established. The effect of the asymmetric mesh stiffness on vibration of spiral bevel gear transmission system is studied deliberately with numerical method. The results show that the mesh stiffness of drive side has more effect on dynamic response than those of the coast side. Only double‐sided impact region is affected considerably by mesh stiffness of coast side while single‐sided impact and no‐impact regions are unchanged. In addition, the increase in the mesh stiffness of drive side tends to worsen the dynamic response of the transmission system especially for light‐load case.
Immunologic Characterization of Posthepatitis Cirrhosis Caused by HBV and HCV Infection
Authors: Li Wan-Yu , Jiang Yan-Fang , Jin Qing-Long , Zhang Hong , Feng Xiang-Wei , Niu Jun-Qi
Published: June 2010

No specific treatment can reverse the liver injury in cirrhosis. This study aims to characterize immune status and correlations between cirrhosis induced by HBV and HCV. Phenotypes of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets (T, NK, regulatory T cells) and Th cytokine secretion were analyzed using flow cytometry in 42 HBV-cirrhotic and 40 HCV-cirrhotic patients. Cirrhotic patients had a lower proportion of CD3+CD8+T cells and NK cells, while the proportion of CD3+CD4+T cells and Treg cells were higher than those of healthy controls. The levels of Th2 cytokine (IL-6) in cirrhotic patients were increased, while only the Th1 cytokine (IFN-γ) increased in HBV-cirrhotic patients. These findings show that there is no difference between the cirrhotic groups except in the IFN-γlevel. In cirrhosis, defects in innate, adaptive immune cells are likely regardless of which virus is involved. A cytokine imbalance may play a role in the development of posthepatitic cirrhosis.
Treatment of Complicated Henoch-Schönlein Purpura with Mycophenolate Mofetil: A Retrospective Case Series Report
Authors: Nikibakhsh A. A. , Mahmoodzadeh H. , Karamyyar M. , Hejazi S. , Noroozi M. , Macooie A. A. , Gholizadeh A. , Gholizadeh L.
Published: June 2010

Background. Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common childhood vasculitis with an incidence of approximately 10 per 100 000 children. There is some evidence to support steroid therapy in the treatment of severe abdominal pain, severe nephritis, and central nervous system involvement. However, the routine use of corticosteroids is controversial. Frequent relapses, lack of response to steroid, steroid dependency, and steroid side effects may occur in some patients. Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) gains increasing popularity in the treatment of autoimmune disorders, but hitherto, the available evidence to support the use of MMF in HSP is limited to some case study reports.Case Presentation. We report six children with HSP who failed to respond to systemic steroid therapy, whereas MMF successfully treated the manifestations of the disease.Conclusion. The manifestations of HSP disappeared mainly during the first week of treatment with MMF and all the patients were in a complete remission at the end and after discontinuation of the therapy. In our experience, MMF appeared to be safe and effective for the maintenance of remission in the HSP patients.
An Effective Method of Monitoring the Large‐Scale Traffic Pattern Based on RMT and PCA
Authors: Liu Jia , Gao Peng , Yuan Jian , Du Xuetao
Published: June 2010

Mechanisms to extract the characteristics of network traffic play a significant role in traffic monitoring, offering helpful information for network management and control. In this paper, a method based on Random Matrix Theory (RMT) and Principal Components Analysis (PCA) is proposed for monitoring and analyzing large‐scale traffic patterns in the Internet. Besides the analysis of the largest eigenvalue in RMT, useful information is also extracted from small eigenvalues by a method based on PCA. And then an appropriate approach is put forward to select some observation points on the base of the eigen analysis. Finally, some experiments about peer‐to‐peer traffic pattern recognition and backbone aggregate flow estimation are constructed. The simulation results show that using about 10% of nodes as observation points, our method can monitor and extract key information about Internet traffic patterns.
Apoptotic Pathways in Pemphigus
Authors: Bektas Meryem , Jolly Puneet , Rubenstein David S.
Published: June 2010

Pemphigus is a group of human autoimmune blistering diseases of the skin in which autoantibodies to desmosome cadherins induce loss of cell‐cell adhesion (acantholysis). In addition to steric hindrance and activation of intracellular signaling, apoptosis has been suggested to contribute to the mechanism by which pathogenic IgG induces acantholysis. We review the current literature examining the role of apoptosis in pemphigus. Current data suggest that apoptosis is not required for blister induction, but that activation of proapoptotic proteins, including caspase cysteine proteinases, may sensitize cells to the acantholytic effects of pemphigus IgG.
Seasonal and Spatial Changes of Microorganism Communities in Constructed Wetlands: A Community Level Physiological Profiling Analysis
Authors: Chazarenc Florent , Brisson Jacques , Merlin Gérard
Published: June 2010

In constructed wetlands, microorganisms associated with plants are assumed to play a major role. A one-year survey was conducted in five vertical flow constructed wetland systems that had been operating from 2 months to 8 years in small French villages (100–500 People Equivalent) to provide a better understanding of microbiological activity. The objective of our study was to highlight the most important factor generating variability between microorganisms communities compared to treatment performances. Results of community level physiological profiling using Biolog Ecoplates were analyzed using principal component analysis. The greatest microbial activity was observed in the oldest wetland during summer. Profiles of fed and rest bed were differentiated by the nature of the main carbon source metabolized. Whereas carbohydrates and carboxylic acids appeared to be better assimilated with fed beds, it seemed that phosphate compounds as well as amines allowed better growth in the plates inoculated with samples of rest beds. In all fed beds, the most important parameters affecting the diversity were the season and the age of the wetlands. There were only slight profile differences between surface and subsurface samples and between the first and second stage samples.
Endothelial Dysfunction, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: van den Oever Inge A. M. , Raterman Hennie G. , Nurmohamed Mike T. , Simsek Suat
Published: June 2010

Endothelial dysfunction is regarded as an important factor in the pathogenesis of vascular disease in obesity-related type 2 diabetes. The imbalance in repair and injury (hyperglycemia, hypertension, dyslipidemia) results in microvascular changes, including apoptosis of microvascular cells, ultimately leading to diabetes related complications. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which the interplay between endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and apoptosis may cause (micro)vascular damage in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Algorithm for Solving a Generalized Mixed Equilibrium Problem with Perturbation in a Banach Space
Authors: Ceng Lu-Chuan , Kum Sangho , Yao Jen-Chih
Published: June 2010

Let "Equation missing" be a real Banach space with the dual space "Equation missing". Let "Equation missing" be a proper functional and let "Equation missing" be a bifunction. In this paper, a new concept of "Equation missing"-proximal mapping of "Equation missing" with respect to "Equation missing" is introduced. The existence and Lipschitz continuity of the "Equation missing"-proximal mapping of "Equation missing" with respect to "Equation missing" are proved. By using properties of the "Equation missing"-proximal mapping of "Equation missing" with respect to "Equation missing", a generalized mixed equilibrium problem with perturbation (for short, GMEPP) is introduced and studied in Banach space "Equation missing". An existence theorem of solutions of the GMEPP is established and a new iterative algorithm for computing approximate solutions of the GMEPP is suggested. The strong convergence criteria of the iterative sequence generated by the new algorithm are established in a uniformly smooth Banach space "Equation missing", and the weak convergence criteria of the iterative sequence generated by this new algorithm are also derived in "Equation missing" a Hilbert space.
Analysis of Large‐Amplitude Pulses in Short Time Intervals: Application to Neuron Interactions
Authors: Mattioli Gianni , Scalia Massimo , Cattani Carlo
Published: June 2010

This paper deals with the analysis of a nonlinear dynamical system which characterizes the axons interaction and is based on a generalization of FitzHugh‐Nagumo system. The parametric domain of stability is investigated for both the linear and third‐order approximation. A further generalization is studied in presence of high‐amplitude (time‐dependent) pulse. The corresponding numerical solution for some given values of parameters are analyzed through the wavelet coefficients, showing both the sensitivity to local jumps and some unexpected inertia of neuron′s as response to the high‐amplitude spike.
New Automated and High-Throughput Quantitative Analysis of Urinary Ketones by Multifiber Exchange-Solid Phase Microextraction Coupled to Fast Gas Chromatography/Negative Chemical-Electron Ionization/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Pacenti Marco , Dugheri Stefano , Traldi Pietro , Degli Esposti Filippo , Perchiazzi Nicola , Franchi Elena , Calamante Massimo , Kikic Ireneo , Alessi Paolo , Bonacchi Alice , Salvadori Edoardo , Arcangeli Giulio , Cupelli Vincenzo
Published: June 2010

The present research is focused on automation, miniaturization, and system interaction with high throughput for multiple and specific Direct Immersion-Solid Phase Microextraction/Fast Gas Chromatography analysis of the urinary ketones. The specific Mass Spectrometry instrumentation, capable of supporting such the automated changeover from Negative Chemical to Electron Ionization mode, as well as the automation of the preparation procedure by new device called MultiFiber Exchange, through change of the fibers, allowed a friendly use of mass spectrometry apparatus with a number of advantages including reduced analyst time and greater reproducibility (2.01–5.32%). The detection limits for the seven ketones were less than 0.004 mg/L. For an innovative powerful meaning in high-throughput routine, the generality of the structurally informative Mass Spectrometry fragmentation patterns together with the chromatographic separation and software automation are also investigated.
Oncogenic Partnerships: EWS-FLI1 Protein Interactions Initiate Key Pathways of Ewing's Sarcoma
Authors: Erkizan Hayriye V. , Uversky Vladimir N. , Toretsky Jeffrey A.
Published: June 2010

Targeted therapy for cancer, which is specifically directed toward the cancer without any potential for effects outside of controlling the tumor, is a gold standard for treatment. Ewing's sarcoma contains the potential target EWS-FLI1, as a result of a pathognomonic chromosomal translocation. The EWS-FLI1 fusion protein includes the EWS domain, a potent transcriptional activator alongside the highly conserved FLI1 ets DNA-binding domain. Because of the combination of these domains, the EWS-FLI1 fusion protein acts as an aberrant transcription factor whose expression results in cellular transformation. EWS-FLI1 functions by binding to normal cellular protein partners in transcription and splicing, similar to how a virus would corrupt normal cellular machinery for virion production. Therefore, understanding the protein-protein interactions of EWS-FLI1 and the pathways that are regulated by these partnerships will inform both oncogenesis and therapeutics. This review describes the known protein partners and transcriptional targets of EWS-FLI1, while proposing strategies for exploiting these partnerships with targeted therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 16(16); 4077–83. ©2010 AACR.
Impact of Collateral Flow to the Occluded Infarct-Related Artery on Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Recent Myocardial Infarction: A Report From the Randomized Occluded Artery Trial
Authors: Steg Ph. Gabriel , Kerner Arthur , Mancini G. B. John , Reynolds Harmony R. , Carvalho Antonio C. , Fridrich Viliam , White Harvey D. , Forman Sandra A. , Lamas Gervasio A. , Hochman Judith S. , Buller Christopher E.
Published: June 2010

Background—

Collateral flow to the infarct artery territory after acute myocardial infarction may be associated with improved clinical outcomes and may also impact the benefit of subsequent recanalization of an occluded infarct-related artery.

Methods and Results—

To understand the association between baseline collateral flow to the infarct territory on clinical outcomes and its interaction with percutaneous coronary intervention of an occluded infarct artery, long-term outcomes in 2173 patients with total occlusion of the infarct artery 3 to 28 days after myocardial infarction from the randomized Occluded Artery Trial were analyzed according to angiographic collaterals documented at study entry. There were important differences in baseline clinical and angiographic characteristics as a function of collateral grade, with generally lower-risk characteristics associated with higher collateral grade. Higher collateral grade was associated with lower rates of death (
P
=0.009), class III and IV heart failure (
P
<0.0001) or either (
P
=0.0002) but had no association with the risk of reinfarction. However, by multivariate analysis, collateral flow was neither an independent predictor of death nor of the primary end point of the trial (composite of death, reinfarction, or class IV heart failure). There was no interaction between angiographic collateral grade and the results of randomized treatment assignment (percutaneous coronary intervention or medical therapy alone) on clinical outcomes.

Conclusions—

In recent myocardial infarction, angiographic collaterals to the occluded infarct artery are correlates but not independent predictors of major clinical outcomes. Late recanalization of the infarct artery in addition to medical therapy shows no benefit compared with medical therapy alone, regardless of the presence or absence of collaterals. Therefore, revascularization decisions in patients with recent myocardial infarction should not be based on the presence or grade of angiographic collaterals.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT00004562.
Progression of Normotensive Adolescents to Hypertensive Adults
Authors: Tirosh Amir , Afek Arnon , Rudich Assaf , Percik Ruth , Gordon Barak , Ayalon Nir , Derazne Estela , Tzur Dorit , Gershnabel Daphna , Grossman Ehud , Karasik Avraham , Shamiss Ari , Shai Iris
Published: June 2010

Although prehypertension at adolescence is accepted to indicate increased future risk of hypertension, large-scale/long follow-up studies are required to better understand how adolescent blood pressure (BP) tracks into young adulthood. We studied 23 191 male and 3789 female adolescents from the Metabolic Lifestyle and Nutrition Assessment in Young Adults cohort (mean age: 17.4 years) with BP <140/90 mm Hg at enrollment or categorized by current criteria for pediatric BP and body mass index (BMI) values. Participants were prospectively followed up with repeated BP measurements between ages 25 and 42 years and retrospectively between ages 17 and 25 years for the incidence of hypertension. We identified 3810 new cases of hypertension between ages 17 and 42 years. In survival analyses, the cumulative risk of hypertension between ages 17 and 42 years was 3 to 4 times higher in men than in women. Using Cox regression models adjusted for age, BMI, and stratified by baseline BP, the hazard ratio of hypertension increased gradually across BP groups within the normotensive range at age 17 years, without a discernible threshold effect, reaching a hazard ratio of 2.50 (95% CI: 1.75 to 3.57) for boys and 2.31 (95% CI: 0.71 to 7.60) for girls in the group with BP at 130 to 139/85 to 89 mm Hg. BMI at age 17 years was strongly associated with future risk of hypertension even when adjusted to BP at age 17 years, particularly in boys. Yet, BMI at age 30 years attenuated this association, more evidently in girls. In conclusion, BP at adolescence, even in the low-normotensive range, linearly predicts progression to hypertension in young adulthood. This progression and the apparent interaction between BP at age 17 years and BMI at adolescence and at adulthood are sex dependent.
Cerebrovascular Regulation During Transient Hypotension and Hypertension in Humans
Authors: Tzeng Yu-Chieh , Willie Chris K. , Atkinson Greg , Lucas Samuel J.E. , Wong Aaron , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: June 2010

The cerebrovasculature dilates or constricts in response to acute blood pressure changes to stabilize cerebral blood flow across a range of blood pressures. It is unclear, however, whether such dynamic cerebral autoregulation (dCA) is equally effective in responding to falling versus rising blood pressure. In this study we applied a pharmacological approach to evaluate dCA gain to transient hypotension and hypertension and compared this method with 2 established indices of dCA that do not explicitly differentiate between dCA efficacy and falling versus rising blood pressure. Middle cerebral arterial velocity and blood pressure recordings were made in 26 healthy volunteers randomized to 2 protocols. In 10 subjects, dCA gain to transient hypotension induced with intravenous nitroprusside was compared with dCA gain to transient hypertension induced with intravenous phenylephrine. In 16 subjects, dCA gain to transient hypotension induced with intravenous nitroprusside was compared with the rate of regulation and autoregulatory index derived from transient hypotension induced with the thigh cuff deflation technique. dCA gain to transient hypotension induced with intravenous nitroprusside was unrelated to dCA gain to transient hypertension induced with intravenous phenylephrine (
r
=0.06;
P
=0.87) and was consistently greater than dCA gain to transient hypertension induced with intravenous phenylephrine (0.57±0.16 versus 0.31±0.20 cm/s per millimeter of mercury;
P
<0.01). However, dCA gain to transient hypotension induced with intravenous nitroprusside was inversely related to the rate of regulation (
r
=−0.52;
P
=0.037) and autoregulatory index (
r
=−0.66;
P
=0.005). These data indicate that, under our laboratory conditions, dCA appears to be inherently nonlinear with disparate efficacy against rising and falling blood pressure, and dCA gain derived from pharmacologically induced transient hypotension correlates with established nonpharmacological indices of dCA.
Extracting Unique Information from High-Resolution Forecast Models: Monitoring Selected Fields and Phenomena Every Time Step
Authors: Kain John S. , Dembek Scott R. , Weiss Steven J. , Case Jonathan L. , Levit Jason J. , Sobash Ryan A.
Published: June 2010

A new strategy for generating and presenting model diagnostic fields from convection-allowing forecast models is introduced. The fields are produced by computing temporal-maximum values for selected diagnostics at each horizontal grid point between scheduled output times. The two-dimensional arrays containing these maximum values are saved at the scheduled output times. The additional fields have minimal impacts on the size of the output files and the computation of most diagnostic quantities can be done very efficiently during integration of the Weather Research and Forecasting Model. Results show that these unique output fields facilitate the examination of features associated with convective storms, which can change dramatically within typical output intervals of 1–3 h.
Interorganizational Collaboration and the Transition to the Department of Homeland Security
Authors: Garrett Terence M.
Published: June 2010

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) transition has shown problems between executive political leadership, management associations, and labor unions, despite “collaborative efforts,” resulting in bureaucratic inertia. This means slower incremental changes for proposed personnel reforms based on private business models advocated by presidential administrations in recent years. The author submits that collaborati©ve organizational reforms advocated by those at the top of the pyramid have been stymied by differences in knowledges between executives, managers, and workers in the DHS. The executive level of knowledge continues dominating public organizations at the continued expense of workers through management initiatives such as the new public management and collaborative public management movements.
The Relationship Between Intervention by Central/Federal or Local Levels of Government and Local Emergency Preparedness Training
Authors: Maor Moshe
Published: June 2010

What impact do interventions by central/federal or local levels of government in local emergency preparedness training have on the focus of training, comprehensiveness, and quality control? An analysis of two cases of intervention by central/federal levels of government reveals that training is likely to be (a) skill oriented and competence framed, (b) comprehensive, and (c) quality controlled in a relatively rigorous manner. An analysis of two additional cases of intervention by local levels of government reveals that training is likely to be (a) skill oriented and competence framed with a focus on people and emergency-related organizational issues, (b) noncomprehensive, and (c) weakly controlled for quality.
The Organ of Experience
Authors: Cook Brian J.
Published: June 2010

Building on Wilsonian foundations, this article present the normative case for a special, central role for public servants in the design and redesign of public law, including constitutions. Central to the author’s argument are Wilson’s characterization of public administration as “the State’s experiencing organ” and his contention that public administration is the primary institution engaged day to day in negotiating the dynamic tension between public and private in a liberal democracy. The author identifies and counters three probable objections to public administrators fulfilling this distinctive role. He concludes with a defense of this role conception for public administration, stressing the obstacles to full realization, and the obligations it imposes on future scholars and public servants.
An Exemplar-Based Approach to Risk Assessment: Validating the Risk Management Systems Instrument
Authors: Koetzle Shaffer Deborah , Kelly Bridget , Lieberman Joel D.
Published: June 2010

This study examines the predictive validity of Risk Management Systems (RMS), a fifth-generation risk/needs assessment. In contrast to traditional risk assessments, the RMS uses exemplar-based modeling to classify offenders as high or low risk. Using a sample ( N = 830) of offenders on supervised release by the U.S. Probation Office, the current study explores the relationship between the RMS scores and recidivism. The results indicate that RMS recidivism and violence scores are predictive of arrests, technical violations, and unsuccessful terminations from supervision. However, only a limited number of offenders were assigned to the high-risk category, which may limit the utility of the instrument. Policy implications are discussed.
Cutaneous challenge with chemical warfare agents in the SKH-1 hairless mouse. (I) Development of a model for screening studies in skin decontamination and protection
Authors: Dorandeu F. , Taysse L. , Boudry I. , Foquin A. , Hérodin F. , Mathieu J. , Daulon S. , Cruz C. , Lallement G.
Published: June 2010

Exposure to lethal chemical warfare agents (CWAs) is no longer only a military issue due to the terrorist threat. Among the CWAs of concern are the organophosphorus nerve agent O-ethyl-S-(2[di-isopropylamino]ethyl)methyl-phosphonothioate (VX) and the vesicant sulfur mustard (SM). Although efficient means of decontamination are available, most of them lose their efficacy when decontamination is delayed after exposure of the bare skin. Alternatively, CWA skin penetration can be prevented by topical skin protectants. Active research in skin protection and decontamination is thus paramount. In vivo screening of decontaminants or skin protectants is usually time consuming and may be expensive depending on the animal species used. We were thus looking for a suitable, scientifically sound and cost-effective model, which is easy to handle. The euthymic hairless mouse Crl: SKH-1 (hr/hr) BR is widely used in some skin studies and has previously been described to be suitable for some experiments involving SM or SM analogs. To evaluate the response of this species, we studied the consequences of exposing male anaesthetized SKH-1 mice to either liquid VX or to SM, the latter being used in liquid form or as saturated vapours. Long-term effects of SM burn were also evaluated. The model was then used in the companion paper (Taysse et al.1).
On Gaussian Markov random fields and Bayesian disease mapping
Authors: MacNab Ying C
Published: June 2010

We discuss the nature of Gaussian Markov random fields (GMRFs) as they are typically formulated via full conditionals, also named conditional autoregressive or CAR formulations, to represent small area relative risks ensemble priors within a Bayesian hierarchical model framework for statistical inference in disease mapping and spatial regression. We present a partial review on GMRF/CAR and multivariate GMRF prior formulations in univariate and multivariate disease mapping models and communicate insights into various prior characteristics for representing disease risks variability and ‘spatial interaction.’ We also propose convolution prior modifications to the well known BYM model for attainment of identifiability and Bayesian robustness in univariate and multivariate disease mapping and spatial regression. Several illustrative examples of disease mapping and spatial regression are presented.
Efficiency in Wholesale, Retail and Village Markets
Authors: Basu Jyotish Prakash
Published: June 2010

The article attempts to examine the marketing efficiency of potato markets in West Bengal’s Hooghly district. The analysis was made at three levels, namely wholesale markets, retail markets and the village market. The analysis using the Johansen and Juselius (1990) cointegration test revealed that the potato markets were integrated and efficient. Turning to the village level, primary data were collected from primary sources in the Arambagh block of Hooghly for the period of July 2000–December 2001. The study simultaneously covered two regions—the cold storage concentration zone and the non-concentration zone. We conclude that ‘efficiency’, as revealed by integration of wholesale and retail markets, cannot coexist with a complex and non-competitive market structure at the village level. This means that the village findings support the inefficiency of potato marketing. There is a need to intervene the private corporate sectors in the potato market to enhance the efficiency at the village level.
Prolonged Thromboprophylaxis With Enoxaparin in Early Neurological Rehabilitation
Authors: Lang Alexandra , Kienitz Carsten , Wetzel Petra , Rollnik Jens D.
Published: June 2010

Prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is essential in neurological patients. Little is known about the optimal duration, efficacy, and safety of prolonged off-label use of low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). We enrolled n = 1176 early neurological rehabilitation cases in a retrospective study. In most cases (n = 1151, 97.9%), 4000 anti-Xa (activated coagulation factor X [factor Xa]) units enoxaparin were administered, only 25 received 2000 units for approximately 2 months (mean of 57.5 days). In 969 cases, enoxaparin was administered for more than 2 weeks. Incidence of symptomatic deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were 0.43% (n = 5) and 1.11% (n = 13), respectively. Hemorrhages during enoxaparin therapy were more frequent. Bleeding occurred in 1.96% (n = 23) of cases, mainly gastrointestinal, urinary tract, and vitreous body bleeding. In short-term (up to 2 weeks) treatment, bleeding and VTE were more frequent than in long-term treatment. Results from this study suggest that prolonged enoxaparin thromboprophylaxis in neurological rehabilitation is safe and effective.
An Exploratory Study of Postpartum Depression and Vitamin D
Authors: Murphy Pamela K. , Mueller Martina , Hulsey Thomas C. , Ebeling Myla D. , Wagner Carol L.
Published: June 2010

BACKGROUND: Low levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), a reliable measurement of vitamin D, have been implicated in several mood disorders. To date, studies exploring the relationship between vitamin D and postpartum depression are absent from the literature. OBJECTIVES: To determine whether a relationship exists between symptoms associated with postpartum depression and vitamin D levels and to determine if serum 25(OH) D levels can predict the incidence of symptoms associated with postpartum depression. STUDY DESIGN: An exploratory, descriptive study using a convenience sample of 97 postpartum women attending seven monthly visits. Women provided serum 25(OH)D samples and completed the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) at each visit. RESULTS: A significant relationship over time was found between low 25(OH)D levels and high EPDS scores, indicative of postpartum depression. CONCLUSIONS: Future rigorous studies investigating vitamin D and postpartum depression are warranted with larger sample sizes using confirmatory methods to diagnose postpartum depression.
From ‘a box in the theater of the world’ to ‘the world as your living room’: cellular phones, television and mobile privatization
Authors: Groening Stephen
Published: June 2010

The ability to receive and view television programs (and other moving image material) on the cellular phone should be seen as part of a larger system of asserting private space in an environment that is crowded with both people and technology. I begin with Walter Benjamin’s notion that the rise of the private individual can be indexed to the set of practices that transform the dwelling place into an interiorization of the external world through the collection of images and objects while at the same time acting as a place of refuge from the external world. Linking those observations to Raymond Williams’ notion of mobile privatization, I argue that the contradictory impulses of moving through the world while retreating from it are the product of economic and social structures which act to isolate individuals from each other while connecting them to the products of corporate media, and do not arise from any inherent traits within cellular phone technology.
Compressive sampling for accelerometer signals in structural health monitoring
Authors: Yuequan Bao  , Beck James L , Hui Li
Published: June 2010

In structural health monitoring (SHM) of civil structures, data compression is often needed to reduce the cost of data transfer and storage, because of the large volumes of sensor data generated from the monitoring system. The traditional framework for data compression is to first sample the full signal and, then to compress it. Recently, a new data compression method named compressive sampling (CS) that can acquire the data directly in compressed form by using special sensors has been presented. In this article, the potential of CS for data compression of vibration data is investigated using simulation of the CS sensor algorithm. For reconstruction of the signal, both wavelet and Fourier orthogonal bases are examined. The acceleration data collected from the SHM system of Shandong Binzhou Yellow River Highway Bridge is used to analyze the data compression ability of CS. For comparison, both the wavelet-based and Huffman coding methods are employed to compress the data. The results show that the values of compression ratios achieved using CS are not high, because the vibration data used in SHM of civil structures are not naturally sparse in the chosen bases.
Smart film for crack monitoring of concrete bridges
Authors: Zhixiang Zhou  , Benniu Zhang  , Kaiwen Xia  , Xingxing Li  , Guo Yan  , Kaihong Zhang
Published: June 2010

In the field of structural health monitoring of concrete bridges, one of the most challenging problems is the crack identification. In our previous study, we proposed a crack-sensitive skin to monitor the crack initiation and development in a structure and to visualize them remotely using computer. However, the material used in the sensitive skin is not suitable for large-scale structural monitoring. In this article, magnetic wire smart film is proposed for crack monitoring of large-scale concrete structures. Fabrication of the smart film, the working principle of the film, and the application of the film on a real bridge will be presented and discussed. The results show that the smart film is a good technique for crack monitoring of large-scale concrete structures.
Enhancing the defect localization capability of a guided wave SHM system applied to a complex structure
Authors: Clarke T. , Cawley P.
Published: June 2010

Sparse-array structural health monitoring systems based on guided waves have been proposed by many authors, current signals being compared with a baseline obtained when the structure was known to be defect free. An image of the structure in the form of a ‘C-scan’ map showing likely defect locations can be produced by combining information from different sensor pairs in the array. It is generally recognized that temperature compensation is essential for the method to work and various compensation methods have been proposed with good results. However, artifacts are commonly seen in the images, making reliable defect location difficult. This is because, as well as the first reflection from the defect that maps to the correct defect location in the image, shadowing effects occur later in the signal and these combine to produce artifacts. This effect can be reduced by appropriate gating of signals, although at a cost in area coverage. If images are formed with multiple different gate locations, the artifact positions and intensities change, but the defect always produces a strong indication. Therefore by combining multiple images, the artifacts can be suppressed and the defect is located more reliably. This strategy has been successfully demonstrated for defects both within the transducer array and close to an edge of both a simple plate and a shipping container door.
Damage identification in beams using empirical mode decomposition
Authors: Rezaei Davood , Taheri Farid
Published: June 2010

Damage detection of beam-type components, which are often vital elements in many structures, is crucial for the prevention of failure of the entire structure and potential catastrophic consequences. In this article, the effectiveness of a damage index, referred to as the EMD energy damage index, for damage detection of beams is demonstrated through a set of numerical and experimental investigations. The proposed damage index utilizes the empirical mode decomposition for health assessment of the system based on its vibrational data. In the numerical study, finite element simulation of a cantilevered steel beam with a transverse notch was analyzed and various notch sizes, located at different locations along the beam, were investigated. In the experimental investigation, which used the same beam as in the numerical study, five notch sizes at the mid-span of the beam were examined. In both the numerical and experimental studies, the free vibration of the beam was acquired via piezoceramic sensors adjacent to the notch and then processed by the proposed methodology for evaluating the EMD energy damage index. This was motivated as the preliminary stage of our investigation with the notion of detecting the presence of a crack in a welded joint. The results were encouraging and proved the capability of the EMD energy damage index for detection and quantification of notches in beams and therefore can be regarded as an effective tool for structural health monitoring purposes. The results were also compared with a method based on changes in the beam natural frequencies. The effect of the boundary conditions on the EMD energy damage index was also experimentally studied.
Participatory photography: A tool for empowerment or surveillance?
Authors: Prins Esther
Published: June 2010

Based on a case study of a participatory photography project with a Salvadoran adult literacy program, this article explores some of the challenges and risks that arise when people use cameras to document their lives. The article examines the unanticipated problems the author and participants encountered (i.e. suspicion, timidity, and ridicule), and elucidates how historical and sociocultural factors structured learners’ and community residents’ responses to photography. Additionally, the article identifies how participants benefited from the project and discusses implications for the use of participatory photography. Drawing on Foucault’s analysis of surveillance and power, the author argues that photography is a technology with contradictory potential for social control and surveillance, and for the recovery of marginalized groups’ subjugated knowledge. Although participatory photography has many potential benefits, researchers and educators must also anticipate its unintended consequences, attend to ethical considerations, and recognize how this tool is mediated by the sociocultural setting.
Long-term outcome of patients in the LNH-98.5 trial, the first randomized study comparing rituximab-CHOP to standard CHOP chemotherapy in DLBCL patients: a study by the Groupe d'Etudes des Lymphomes de l'Adulte
Authors: Coiffier Bertrand , Thieblemont Catherine , Van Den Neste Eric , Lepeu Gérard , Plantier Isabelle , Castaigne Sylvie , Lefort Sophie , Marit Gérald , Macro Margaret , Sebban Catherine , Belhadj Karim , Bordessoule Dominique , Fermé Christophe , Tilly Hervé
Published: June 2010

We report the outcome of patients included in the LNH-98.5 study, which compared cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) to rituximab plus CHOP (R-CHOP) therapy in 399 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) aged 60 to 80 years, with a median follow-up time of 10 years. Clinical event information was updated in all living patients (with the exception of 3 patients) in 2009. Survival end points were improved in patients treated with R-CHOP: the 10-year progression-free survival was 36.5%, compared with 20% with CHOP alone, and the 10-year overall survival was 43.5% compared with 27.6%. The same risk of death due to other diseases, secondary cancers, and late relapses was observed in both study arms. Relapses occurring after 5 years represented 7% of all disease progressions. The results from the 10-year analysis confirm the benefits and tolerability of the addition of rituximab to CHOP. Our findings underscore the need to treat elderly patients as young patients, with the use of curative chemotherapy.
Biochemical characterization of the maltokinase from Mycobacterium bovis BCG
Authors: Mendes Vítor , Maranha Ana , Lamosa Pedro , da Costa Milton S , Empadinhas Nuno
Published: June 2010

Background

Maltose-1-phosphate was detected in Mycobacterium bovis BCG extracts in the 1960's but a maltose-1-phosphate synthetase (maltokinase, Mak) was only much later purified from Actinoplanes missouriensis, allowing the identification of the mak gene. Recently, this metabolite was proposed to be the intermediate in a pathway linking trehalose with the synthesis of glycogen in M. smegmatis. Although the M. tuberculosis H37Rv mak gene (Rv0127) was considered essential for growth, no mycobacterial Mak has, to date, been characterized.

Results

The sequence of the Mak from M. bovis BCG was identical to that from M. tuberculosis strains (99-100% amino acid identity). The enzyme was dependent on maltose and ATP, although GTP and UTP could be used to produce maltose-1-phosphate, which we identified by TLC and characterized by NMR. The K
m
for maltose was 2.52 ± 0.40 mM and 0.74 ± 0.12 mM for ATP; the V
max was 21.05 ± 0.89 μmol/min.mg-1. Divalent cations were required for activity and Mg2+ was the best activator. The enzyme was a monomer in solution, had maximal activity at 60°C, between pH 7 and 9 (at 37°C) and was unstable on ice and upon freeze/thawing. The addition of 50 mM NaCl markedly enhanced Mak stability.

Conclusions

The unknown role of maltokinases in mycobacterial metabolism and the lack of biochemical data led us to express the mak gene from M. bovis BCG for biochemical characterization. This is the first mycobacterial Mak to be characterized and its properties represent essential knowledge towards deeper understanding of mycobacterial physiology. Since Mak may be a potential drug target in M. tuberculosis, its high-level production and purification in bioactive form provide important tools for further functional and structural studies.
CONAN: copy number variation analysis software for genome-wide association studies
Authors: Forer Lukas , Schönherr Sebastian , Weissensteiner Hansi , Haider Florian , Kluckner Thomas , Gieger Christian , Wichmann Heinz-Erich , Specht Günther , Kronenberg Florian , Kloss-Brandstätter Anita
Published: June 2010

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) based on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) revolutionized our perception of the genetic regulation of complex traits and diseases. Copy number variations (CNVs) promise to shed additional light on the genetic basis of monogenic as well as complex diseases and phenotypes. Indeed, the number of detected associations between CNVs and certain phenotypes are constantly increasing. However, while several software packages support the determination of CNVs from SNP chip data, the downstream statistical inference of CNV-phenotype associations is still subject to complicated and inefficient in-house solutions, thus strongly limiting the performance of GWAS based on CNVs.

Results

CONAN is a freely available client-server software solution which provides an intuitive graphical user interface for categorizing, analyzing and associating CNVs with phenotypes. Moreover, CONAN assists the evaluation process by visualizing detected associations via Manhattan plots in order to enable a rapid identification of genome-wide significant CNV regions. Various file formats including the information on CNVs in population samples are supported as input data.

Conclusions

CONAN facilitates the performance of GWAS based on CNVs and the visual analysis of calculated results. CONAN provides a rapid, valid and straightforward software solution to identify genetic variation underlying the 'missing' heritability for complex traits that remains unexplained by recent GWAS. The freely available software can be downloaded at http://genepi-conan.i-med.ac.at.