bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ion-Cut Transfer of InP-Based High Electron Mobility Transistors
Authors: Chen Wayne , Kuech T. F. , Lau S. S.
Published: May 2011

The ion-cut transfer of InP-based transistors onto sapphire via adhesive bonding was successfully demonstrated. In this study, high-speed modulation-doped field effect transistor layers, or MODFETs, were first epitaxially grown on InP bulk substrates. The MODFET layers were then transferred onto sapphire using one of three methods: (A) substrate removal through polishing and etching, (B) conventional ion-cutting, and (C) patterned ion-cutting or masked ion-cutting. Following layer transfer, transistors were fabricated at low temperatures (<150°C) and characterized using I-V and C-V measurements. Transistors transferred by conventional ion-cutting method were proven to be unsuitable for device fabrication. We found, however, that transistors could be successfully fabricated using the substrate removal or masked ion-cutting methods, both of which avoid ion-implantation related damage directly in the device region. The transferred transistors were well-behaved with a high field-effect mobility (μ
average > 4000 cm2/V-s). The advantages of patterned ion-cutting over conventional substrate removal method include less variation between fabricated devices, slightly higher mobility likely due to lower etch pit density, and the potential recycling of the original donor substrate.
Field Emission from One-Dimensional Submicron Diamond Rods
Authors: Lin Jian-You , Wang Shin-Hong , Chen Ting-Ting , Chen Chih-Yen , Chou Li-Jen , Hwang Jenn-Chang , Kou Chwung-Shan
Published: May 2011

One-dimensional boron-doped submicron diamond rods (SDRs) were fabricated on diamond/Si substrates by oxygen plasma etching. The SDRs are ∼4.5 µm in height and ∼383 nm in diameter. Iron oxide coated on SDRs is essential in the formation of one-dimensional SDRs. However, the as-etched SDRs suffer with high turn-on field (ETO) and low field emission current density (JFE) due to the iron oxide. A huge improvement in the field emission characteristics can be achieved by removing iron oxide using a wet-etch process in a diluted HCl (37%). After the wet-etch, the SDRs exhibit a low ETO value of4.5 V/µm (at 10 µA/cm2) and a high JFE value of 30 mA/cm2 (at 8.5 V/µm). The FE emitter is only stable for a short period of time at high current stress owing to the rounding of the tips of SDRs.
Feasibility of Imaging Esophageal Cancer with Labeled Somatostatin Analogue
Authors: Herlin Gunnar , Ideström Lars , Lundell Lars , Aspelin Peter , Axelsson Rimma
Published: May 2011

Background. While the surface of a cell normally has some amount of somatostatin receptors, these receptors are overexpressed to a very high degree in multiple neoplastic diseases. No data exist for esophageal carcinoma.
Purpose. To find out whether esophageal carcinoma could be imaged using somatostatin receptor scintigraphy.
Material and Methods. 34 patients with esophageal lesions were prospectively examined by 99mTc-depreotide scintigraphy 2 and 4 hours after injection. Quantitative evaluation of 99mTc-depreotide uptake was performed around the lesion (T) and in healthy lung parenchyma (B). The relative uptake was calculated as T−B/B. Scintigraphy results were compared with histopathology from surgery or biopsy specimens from endoscopic ultrasonography.
Results. 21 patients had esophageal cancer, and 13 lesions were benign. Visual assessment revealed positive 99mTc-depreotide uptake in 16 of the 21 cancers. The 13 patients without cancer had no depreotide uptake. The Mann-Whitney U test showed a statistically significant difference () between 99mTc-depreotide uptake in malignant and benign lesions, for both the 2-hour and the 4-hour measurements.
Conclusion. Scintigraphic examination with 99mTc-depreotide is feasible for imaging esophageal cancer, but the method is not suitable neither for screening or primary diagnosis, because of methods modest sensitivity. Our first results showed high specificity which should be used with caution, as the number of patients was relatively low. Further studies are needed to determine the role of the method.
Relationship between Anti-European Brown Hare Syndrome Serological Titers and Brown Hare (Lepus europaeusPallas) Densities
Authors: Paci Gisella , Lavazza Antonio , Ferretti Marco , Santilli Francesco , Bagliacca Marco
Published: May 2011

Thirty-three protected wild game reproduction areas, located in the province of Florence (Central Italy), were monitored for habitat characteristics and hare census over a period of 2 years. A total of 172 hares was captured, checked for sex, and age, and blood samples were taken. Serum samples were analyzed by competitive ELISA test for detection and titration of anti-European brown hare syndrome virus (EBHSV) antibodies. Results showed that EBHSV seropositive hares from areas with high and medium population densities had higher antibody titers than those coming from low-density areas and that adults showed lower values than young animals. Anti-EBHSV antibody levels were inversely related to the distances between protected areas and private hunting areas while a high density of protected areas was not associated with any similarity in the values or prevalence of EBHSV.
Determination of Diethyl Phthalate and Polyhexamethylene Guanidine in Surrogate Alcohol from Russia
Authors: Monakhova Yulia B. , Kuballa Thomas , Leitz Jenny , Lachenmeier Dirk W.
Published: May 2011

Analytical methods based on spectroscopic techniques were developed and validated for the determination of diethyl phthalate (DEP) and polyhexamethylene guanidine (PHMG), which may occur in unrecorded alcohol. Analysis for PHMG was based on UV-VIS spectrophotometry after derivatization with Eosin Y and1H NMR spectroscopy of the DMSO extract. Analysis of DEP was performed with direct UV-VIS and1H NMR methods. Multivariate curve resolution and spectra computation methods were used to confirm the presence of PHMG and DEP in the investigated beverages. Of 22 analysed alcohol samples, two contained DEP or PHMG.1H NMR analysis also revealed the presence of signals of hawthorn extract in three medicinal alcohols used as surrogate alcohol. The simple and cheap UV-VIS methods can be used for rapid screening of surrogate alcohol samples for impurities, while1H NMR is recommended for specific confirmatory analysis if required.
When to Initiate Disease-Modifying Drugs for Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in Adults?
Authors: Alkhawajah Mona , Oger Joel
Published: May 2011

For patients with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Scierosis Beta Interfaerons and Glatiramer Acetate were the first to be licensed for treatment. This review deals with one major question: when to initiate therapy? Through exploring the unique characteristics of the disease and treatement we suggest an approach that should be helpful in the process of decision-making.
The Over‐expression of the β2 Catalytic Subunit of the Proteasome Decreases Homologous Recombination and Impairs DNA Double‐Strand Break Repair in Human Cells
Authors: Collavoli Anita , Comelli Laura , Cervelli Tiziana , Galli Alvaro
Published: May 2011

By a human cDNA library screening, we have previously identified two sequences coding two different catalytic subunits of the proteasome which increase homologous recombination (HR) when overexpressed in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Here, we investigated the effect of proteasome on spontaneous HR and DNA repair in human cells. To determine if the proteasome has a role in the occurrence of spontaneous HR in human cells, we overexpressed the β2 subunit of the proteasome in HeLa cells and determined the effect on intrachromosomal HR. Results showed that the overexpression of β2 subunit decreased HR in human cells without altering the cell proteasome activity and the Rad51p level. Moreover, exposure to MG132 that inhibits the proteasome activity reduced HR in human cells. We also found that the expression of the β2 subunit increases the sensitivity to the camptothecin that induces DNA double‐strand break (DSB). This suggests that the β2 subunit has an active role in HR and DSB repair but does not alter the intracellular level of the Rad51p.
Justification of the NLS Approximation for the KdV Equation Using the Miura Transformation
Authors: Schneider Guido
Published: May 2011

It is the purpose of this paper to give a simple proof of the fact
that solutions of the KdV equation can be approximated via solutions of the NLS equation. The proof is based on an elimination of the quadratic terms of the KdV equation via the Miura transformation.
Antenatal Ultrasonographic Anteroposterior Renal Pelvis Diameter Measurement: Is It a Reliable Way of Defining Fetal Hydronephrosis?
Authors: Pereira Alamanda Kfoury , Reis Zilma Silveira Nogueira , Bouzada Maria Cândida Ferrarez , de Oliveira Eduardo Araújo , Osanan Gabriel , Cabral Antônio Carlos Vieira
Published: May 2011

Purpose. It was to quantify the intraobserver and interobserver variability of the sonographic measurements of renal pelvis and classify hydronephrosis severity.Methods. Two ultrasonographers evaluated 17 fetuses from 23 to 39 weeks of gestation. Renal pelvis APD were taken in 50 renal units. For intraobserver error, one of them performed three sequential measurements. The mean and standard deviation from the absolute and percentage differences between measurements were calculated. Bland-Altman plots were used to visually assess the relationship between the precision of repeated measurements. Hydronephrosis was classified as mild (5.0 to 9.9 mm), moderate (10.0 to 14.9 mm), or severe (≥15.0 mm). Interrater agreement were obtained using the Kappa index.Results. Absolute intraobserver variation in APD measurements was %. Interobserver variation of ultrasonographers was %. Neither intraobserver or interobserver error increased with increasing APD size. The overall percentage of agreement with the antenatal hydronephrosis diagnosis was 64%. Cohen's Kappa to hydronephrosis severity was 0.51 (95% CI, 0.33 to 0.69).Conclusion. Inter and intraobserver APD measurement errors were low in these group, but the agreement to hydronephrosis diagnosis and classification was fair. We suggest that standard and serial APD measurement can better define and evaluate fetal hydronephrosis.
Robust Admissibilization of Descriptor Systems by Static Output‐Feedback: An LMI Approach
Authors: Chaabane M. , Tadeo F. , Mehdi D. , Souissi M.
Published: May 2011

The problem of the stabilization of descriptor systems in continuous‐time via
static output‐feedback is studied in this paper and an approach to solve it is proposed. For this, sufficient conditions are derived for the closed‐loop system to be admissible (i.e., stable, regular, and impulse‐free). These conditions are expressed in terms of a strict Linear Matrix Inequality (LMI); so they are tractable using numerical computations. The proposed controller design methodology is based on two steps: the first is dedicated to synthesizing a classical state‐feedback controller, which is used as the initial value for the second step, which uses an LMI problem to obtain static output‐feedback controllers that give admissibility. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the results.
New Strategies in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer: Improving Outcomes in Chemoradiotherapy for Locally Advanced Disease
Authors: Rengan Ramesh , Maity Amit M. , Stevenson James P. , Hahn Stephen M.
Published: May 2011

The past decade has seen significant breakthroughs in our knowledge of the tumor biology of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Signaling pathways that are vital for tumor growth have been identified and have been effectively targeted for pharmacologic intervention. Furthermore, advances in imaging and treatment delivery have allowed radiation oncologists to deliver therapy more precisely to mobile tumors, while minimizing the dose to surrounding critical structures. This article summarizes the implications of these advances for the patient with unresectable locally advanced NSCLC and highlights ongoing work to improve clinical outcomes in this disease. Clin Cancer Res; 17(13); 4192–9. ©2011 AACR.
‘Oh, Baby, Please Don’t Cry!’: In Infants Suffering from Infantile Colic Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenocortical Axis Activity Is Related to Poor Sleep and Increased Crying Intensity
Authors: Brand Serge , Furlano Raoul , Sidler Marc , Schulz Juergen , Holsboer-Trachsler Edith
Published: May 2011

Background/Aim: Infantile colic (IC) is considered to represent the upper end of the spectrum of early developmental crying behavior. Little is known about hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis activity and sleep in relation to infants’ crying. The aim of the present study was to assess cortisol secretion in infants in relation to their sleep and crying patterns. Method: Sixteen infants (mean age: 8 weeks; SD = 1.5 weeks) were enrolled. Their mothers completed a series of questionnaires regarding the infants’ crying and sleeping patterns. The infants’ sleep was objectively assessed with actigraphs. After 4 weeks, the infants were assessed once again. Cortisol secretion was measured by means of saliva samples in the mornings after awakening. Results: Morning saliva cortisol levels were related to more frequent awakening and to increased crying intensity, but not to sleep or crying duration. Over 4 weeks, both crying behavior and sleep duration decreased, but there was no association between them. Cortisol secretion did not significantly change. Conclusions: In infants suffering from IC, fragmented sleep patterns and increased saliva cortisol levels were related. Cortisol secretion seems to be related to crying intensity, but not to crying duration. Crying intensity may reflect greater physiological or psychological stress rather than mere duration of crying.
Agonist Activation of F-Actin-Mediated Eosinophil Shape Change and Mediator Release Is Dependent on Rac2
Authors: Lacy Paige , Willetts Lian , Kim John D. , Lo Andrea N. , Lam Bon , MacLean Emily I. , Moqbel Redwan , Rothenberg Marc E. , Zimmermann Nives
Published: May 2011

Background: Tissue recruitment and activation of eosinophils contribute to allergic symptoms by causing airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation. Shape changes and mediator release in eosinophils may be regulated by mammalian Rho-related guanosine triphosphatases. Of these, Rac2 is essential for F-actin formation as a central process underlying cell motility, exocytosis, and respiratory burst in neutrophils, while the role of Rac2 in eosinophils is unknown.We set out to determine the role of Rac2 in eosinophil mediator release and F-actin-dependent shape change in response to chemotactic stimuli. Methods: Rac2-deficient eosinophils from CD2-IL-5 transgenic mice crossed with rac2 gene knockout animals were examined for their ability to release superoxide through respiratory burst or eosinophil peroxidase by degranulation. Eosinophil shape change and actin polymerization were also assessed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy following stimulation with eotaxin-2 or platelet-activating factor. Results: Eosinophils from wild-type mice displayed inducible superoxide release, but at a small fraction (4–5%) of human eosinophils. Rac2-deficient eosinophils showed significantly less superoxide release (p < 0.05, 26% less than wild type). Eosinophils lacking Rac2 had diminished degranulation (p < 0.05, 62% less eosinophil peroxidase) and shape changes in response to eotaxin-2 or platelet-activating factor (with 68 and 49% less F-actin formation, respectively; p < 0.02) compared with wild-type cells. Conclusion: These results demonstrate that Rac2 is an important regulator of eosinophil function by contributing to superoxide production, granule protein release, and eosinophil shape change. Our findings suggest that Rho guanosine triphosphatases are key regulators of cellular inflammation in allergy and asthma.
Immunomodulation of Skin Cytokine Secretion by House Dust Mite Extracts
Authors: Arlian Larry G. , Morgan Marjorie S.
Published: May 2011

Background: Skin contact with house dust mites may contribute to atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases. We sought to determine if molecules from house dust mites could influence the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines from epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts grown in a human skin equivalent (HSE) model. Methods: HSEs consisting of an epidermis of keratinocytes with stratum corneum over a dermis of fibroblasts in a collagen matrix were challenged with Dermatophagoides farinae, D. pteronyssinus and Euroglyphus maynei mite extracts. Results: HSEs secreted interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1 receptor antagonist, IL-6, IL-8, cutaneous T cell-attracting chemokine, transforming growth factor-α, granulocyte/macrophage and macrophage colony-stimulating factors and vascular endothelial cell growth factor in response to at least 1 mite extract. Extracts of different mite species stimulated HSEs to release different cytokines. Therefore, extracts of different species contained different molecules or different concentrations of similar molecules. The cytokine release profiles of cells in the HSEs were not the same as for monocultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Conclusions: Molecules from house dust mites are capable of inducing the release of multiple proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines from epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts. Avoiding skin contact with house dust mites would reduce the possibility of mite-induced inflammation in the skin. Therefore, measures to reduce contact with mite molecules such as frequent vacuuming of upholstered furniture and carpets and laundering of clothing and bedding to remove mite molecules and allergens could reduce skin contact with mite molecules and diminish exacerbations of skin inflammation in patients with atopic dermatitis and other skin diseases.
Long-Term Controlled-Release Oxycodone and Pregabalin in the Treatment of Non-Cancer Pain: An Observational Study
Authors: Gatti A. , Longo G. , Sabato E. , Sabato A.F.
Published: May 2011

Aims: This study evaluates the efficacy and tolerability of long-term controlled-release (CR) oxycodone + pregabalin in patients with non-cancer pain, in a real-life setting. Methods: Patients (n = 1,051) with chronic uncontrolled non-cancer pain received CR oxycodone + pregabalin for 1 year. Pain intensity was rated on an 11-point numerical rating scale (NRS) at months 1, 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12. Results: Throughout the study period, the NRS score decreased significantly (baseline: 7.02 ± 1.26; 12 months: 1.45 ± 0.92; p = 0.00001). Following an initial increase in the mean daily doses of CR oxycodone (starting dose: 12.5 ± 8.4 mg) and pregabalin (starting dose: 121.7 ± 97.2 mg), dose reductions were seen for both drugs with the trend particularly evident for CR oxycodone. 23% of patients withdrew from the study, mainly due to adverse events (67.9% of withdrawn subjects). However, 19.7% of withdrawn patients were removed from the study due to complete relief from chronic pain. The combination was generally well tolerated and there were no reports of addiction. Conclusion: The combination of CR oxycodone + pregabalin could represent a valuable long-term therapeutic addition to existing pharmacological options for the treatment of non-cancer pain.
A Nonsynonymous Polymorphism of IRAK4 Associated with Increased Prevalence of Gram-Positive Infection and Decreased Response to Toll-Like Receptor Ligands
Authors: Sutherland Ainsley M. , Walley Keith R. , Nakada Taka-aki , Sham Andy H.P. , Wurfel Mark M. , Russell James A.
Published: May 2011

Mutations in IRAK4 have been associated with recurrent Gram-positive infections in children. Given the central role of IRAK4 in innate immunity signaling, we hypothesized that common genetic variants of IRAK4 may be associated with prevalence of Gram-positive infection in critically ill adults. Haplotype clade tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the IRAK4 gene were selected and genotyped in a cohort of 1,029 critically ill patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). We found that a haplotype clade tagged by the A allele of the htSNP G29429A (Ala428Thr) was associated with increased relative risk of Gram-positive infection at admission to ICU (RR = 1.2, p < 0.05). Furthermore, the 29429A allele was associated with decreased lymphoblastoid cell response to CpG (as measured by IL-6 production) (raw values ± 95% CI 40.3 ± 32.3 vs. 85.8 ± 29.4 pg/ml; log-transformed values ± 95% CI 1.13 ± 0.37 vs. 1.55 ± 0.18, p < 0.04). We also found that IRAK4-deficient fibroblasts transfected with an IRAK4 expression plasmid containing the 29429A allele produced less IL-6 in response to lipopolysaccharide (p = 0.07). Our data suggest that the IRAK4 haplotype clade marked by 29429A (428Thr) alters susceptibility to Gram-positive bacteria, by decreasing cellular response to TLR ligands.
Contribution of the Pedunculopontine Nucleus on Walking in Stroke Patients
Authors: Yeo Sang Seok , Ahn Sang Ho , Choi Byung Yeon , Chang Chul Hoon , Lee Jun , Jang Sung Ho
Published: May 2011

Objectives: We attempted to investigate changes of the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) according to walking ability in chronic stroke patients, using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Methods: 55 consecutive chronic stroke patients who were not able to walk due to injury of the corticospinal tract (CST) at stroke onset and 22 age-matched normal control subjects were recruited. We measured the values of fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of the PPN and assessed the walking ability of each patient. Results: In patients who were able to walk independently, the FA value of the PPN in the affected hemisphere was increased without change of the ADC value (p < 0.05). Increase of the FA value was positively correlated with the degree of walking ability (p < 0.05). In contrast, the ADC value was increased in the affected hemisphere of patients who could not walk, without change of the FA value (p < 0.05). This increase of the ADC value was negatively correlated with the degree of walking ability (p < 0.05). Conclusion: We found that the neuronal activity of the PPN in the affected hemisphere was increased in stroke patients who were able to walk independently. Therefore, we think that the PPN in the affected hemisphere contributed to walking ability in stroke patients with CST injury.
Hypothalamic Control of Lipid Metabolism: Focus on Leptin, Ghrelin and Melanocortins
Authors: Diéguez Carlos , Vazquez María J. , Romero Amparo , López Miguel , Nogueiras Ruben
Published: May 2011

The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in the regulation of food intake and energy expenditure. One of the main regulatory factors within the hypothalamus is AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is involved in a large number of biological actions including the modulation of energy balance. Leptin and ghrelin-induced changes in hypothalamic AMPK lead to important alterations in hypothalamic fatty acid metabolism. Furthermore, it is well known that the hypothalamus controls peripheral lipid metabolism through the sympathetic nervous system, and those actions are independent of food intake. In this short review, we highlight the main molecular pathways triggered by leptin and ghrelin altering both central and peripheral lipid metabolism and, therefore, controlling feeding behavior and energy expenditure.
Application of an Exercise Intervention on the Evolution of Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Hare James L. , Hordern Matthew D. , Leano Rodel , Stanton Tony , Prins Johannes B. , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: May 2011

Background—

Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We studied the impact of an exercise-based lifestyle intervention on the evolution of DD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prospectively investigated the clinical correlates of DD progression.

Methods and Results—

A total of 223 outpatients with T2DM were randomized to supervised exercise-based lifestyle intervention (initial gym-based program and lifestyle and diet advice followed by telephone-guided supervision) or usual care. Patients underwent echocardiographic assessment of diastolic function and metabolic and clinical evaluation at baseline and 3 years. Changes in prevalence and evolution of DD were assessed and correlations sought with clinical and metabolic variables. DD was present in 50% of patients at baseline and 54% at 3 years, with no difference between the usual care and intervention groups (60% versus 48%,
P
=0.10). Abnormal DD at the final visit was independently associated with older age and a decrease in peak oxygen consumption over time (
P
<0.05). There was no impact on glycemic control or exercise capacity. In a subanalysis restricted to patients who finished the full 3-year follow-up, control subjects were independently associated with DD at 3 years (β=0.90; odds ratio, 2.46;
P
=0.034), with the only other independent correlate being older age (β=0.05; odds ratio, 1.06;
P
=0.019).

Conclusions—

Despite being efficacious in the subgroup who completed 3 years of exercise-based lifestyle intervention, randomization to this program was not effective in reducing progression of subclinical DD in patients with T2DM, which may reflect the recognized difficulty of adherence to prolonged exercise intervention.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.anzctr.org.au
. Unique identifier: ACTRN12607000060448.
Impact of Angiographic Complete Revascularization After Drug-Eluting Stent Implantation or Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery for Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Kim Young-Hak , Park Duk-Woo , Lee Jong-Young , Kim Won-Jang , Yun Sung-Cheol , Ahn Jung-Min , Song Hae Geun , Oh Jun-Hyok , Park Jong Seon , Kang Soo-Jin , Lee Seung-Whan , Lee Cheol Whan , Park Seong-Wook , Park Seung-Jung
Published: May 2011

Background—

This study sought to evaluate the clinical impact of angiographic complete revascularization (CR) after drug-eluting stent implantation or coronary artery bypass graft surgery for multivessel coronary disease.

Methods and Results—

A total of 1914 consecutive patients with multivessel coronary disease undergoing drug-eluting stent implantation (1400 patients) or coronary artery bypass graft surgery (514 patients) were enrolled. Angiographic CR was defined as revascularization in all diseased segments according to the Synergy Between PCI With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery classification. The outcomes of patients undergoing CR were compared with those undergoing incomplete revascularization (IR) after adjustments with the inverse-probability-of-treatment weighting method. Angiographic CR was performed in 917 patients (47.9%) including 573 percutaneous coronary intervention (40.9%) and 344 coronary artery bypass graft (66.9%) patients. CR patients were younger and had more extensive coronary disease than IR patients. Over 5 years, CR patients had comparable incidences of death (8.9% versus 8.9%; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.76 to 1.43;
P
=0.81), the composite of death, myocardial infarction, and stroke (12.1% versus 11.9%; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 0.79 to 1.36;
P
=0.80), and the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and repeat revascularization (22.4% versus 24.9%; adjusted hazard ratio, 0.91; 95% confidence interval, 0.75 to 1.10;
P
=0.32) compared with IR patients. However, 368 patients (19.2%) with multivessel IR had a greater tendency toward higher risk of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, or repeat revascularization (30.3% versus 22.1%; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.97 to 1.66;
P
=0.079) than those without multivessel IR.

Conclusions—

Angiographic CR with drug-eluting stent implantation or coronary artery bypass grafting did not improve long-term clinical outcomes in patients with multivessel disease. This finding supports the strategy of ischemia-guided revascularization.
Total Arch Repair for Acute Type A Aortic Dissection With 2 Modified Techniques: Open Single-Branched Stent Graft Placement and Reinforcement of the Dissected Arch Vessel Stump With Stent Graft
Authors: Chen Liang-Wan , Wu Xi-Jie , Lu Lin , Zhang Gui-Can , Yang Guo-Feng , Yang Zhao-Wei , Dong Yi , Cao Hua , Chen Qiang
Published: May 2011

Background—

In total arch replacement for patients with acute type A aortic dissection, anastomoses of the graft to the left subclavian artery and descending aorta are often difficult, and the arch vessel anastomosis is frequently performed at the site of dissection. To make this procedure easier and safer, we developed 2 modified techniques: open single-branched stent graft placement into the left subclavian artery and the descending aorta and reinforcement of the dissected arch vessel stump with a stent graft neointima. The feasibility and initial clinical results of these 2 new techniques are reported.

Methods and Results—

Total arch repair with the 2 new techniques was performed in 26 patients with acute Stanford type A aortic dissection. Most patients had an uneventful postoperative course, and there were no surgical deaths. All implanted stent grafts were fully opened and not kinked, and there was no space or blood flow surrounding any of the stent grafts. The false lumen of the descending thoracic aorta closed with thrombus formation in 22 of 26 patients. Disappearance of the false lumen and recovery of the true lumen was observed in all of the dissected arch vessels.

Conclusions—

Open single-branched stent graft placement into the left subclavian artery and the descending aorta and reinforcement of the dissected arch vessel stump with a stent graft neointima are 2 simple and effective techniques that should make total arch repair an easier and safer procedure for acute type A aortic dissection.
Physical Symptoms and Psychosocial Correlates of Somatization in Pediatric Primary Care
Authors: Andresen Jennifer M. , Woolfolk Robert L. , Allen Lesley A. , Fragoso Michael A. , Youngerman Neil L. , Patrick-Miller Timothy J. , Gara Michael A.
Published: May 2011

A group of children, aged 8 to 13 years, presenting to their pediatricians with multiple medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) were compared with a control group of children from the identical age range who were, according to their pediatricians, free of unexplained physical symptoms. The groups were compared on both self-reported and parented-rated scales assessing physical symptoms and psychosocial functioning. The multiple MUPS group, relative to controls, exhibited significantly higher levels of parent-reported emotional/behavioral symptoms and a trend toward higher patient-reported anxiety than controls. Parents’ and child’s reports of symptomatology were modestly correlated. Symptom patterns characteristic of pediatric somatization differed as a function of whether child or parent reports were analyzed. Methodological issues in research on pediatric somatization were addressed and some directions for future research emerged.
Juvenile Polyps and Juvenile Polyp Syndromes in Children
Authors: Hood Brandy , Bigler Steven , Bishop Phyllis , Liu Hua , Ahmad Naveed , Renault Macey , Nowicki Michael
Published: May 2011

In children, most colonic polyps are juvenile polyps with negligible risk for malignant transformation. The exception is juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) where there is a risk for developing colon cancer. The authors studied differences in clinical features and colonoscopic findings in children with solitary juvenile polyps (SJP), multiple juvenile polyps (MJP), and JPS. Methods. Children were identified as SJP (1 polyp), MJP (2-4 polyps), or JPS (>5 polyps). Demographic data, laboratory values, family history, and colonoscopic findings were recorded. Results. Children having polypectomy had juvenile polyps (93%), adenomatous polyps (5%), and Peutz–Jegher syndrome (3%). Juvenile polyps were classified as SJP (67%), MJP (16%), and JPS (17%). Children with SJP were younger, were more likely to have polyps limited to the rectosigmoid colon, and had larger polyps than children with MJP and JPS. Anemia was more common in JPS than MJP and SJP. Conclusion. Clinical and endoscopic findings differ between SJP, MJP, and JPS.
A study of interdisciplinarity in information science: using direct citation and co-authorship analysis
Authors: Huang Mu-Hsuan , Chang Yu-Wei
Published: May 2011

This study uses two bibliometric methods, direct citation and co-authorship, to investigate the interdisciplinary changes in information sciences during 1978—2007. The disciplines of references and co-authors from five information science journals were analysed. Furthermore, Brillouin’s Index was adopted to measure the degree of interdisciplinarity. The study revealed that information science researchers have cited the publications of library and information science (LIS) most frequently. The co-authors of information science articles are also primarily from the discipline of LIS, but the percentage of references to LIS is much higher. This indicates that information science researchers mainly rely on publications in LIS, and they often produce scientific papers with researchers from LIS. The discipline rankings generated by direct citation and co-authorship show a significant consistency via Spearman’s correlation coefficient test. The interdisciplinary degree of information science has displayed growth. In particular, the degree of interdisciplinarity for co-authors has grown.
Does Development Exist outside Representation?
Authors: Tripathy Jyotirmaya , Mohapatra Dharmabrata
Published: May 2011

Drawing from the insights of post-structuralism, the essay questions the ontology of underdevelopment existing prior to its representation and locates the idea of development within discourse. Since language constructs reality within a signifying system, the problem of underdevelopment is a product of particular cultural experiences and is not innocent of power. By weaving objective narratives of evolution and progress, development discourse successfully masquerades its relativism and creates a universal system of scientific knowledge. The essay also engages with postcolonial theory and argues that like the Orient and its savagery, the Third World and its poverty were invented to exercise discipline and control in non-Western territories. Understood thus, development can be a synonym for a civilizing mission. The development expert here appears not as a disinterested change agent but an ideologically driven disciplinarian, and it is for this reason that the emancipatory promise of development is highly suspect.
Numerical simulation of non-buoyant pollutants dispersion in a turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Shin M S , Kang S K , Byun S J , Yoon J Y
Published: May 2011

A pollutant-laden transport in fully developed turbulent boundary-layer flow has been investigated using the k–ω turbulence model. The scalar transport equation of the pollutants concentration, which is based on the continuous-phase approach, is adopted. The pollutant settling process is taken into account with a modified settling velocity appearing in the pollutant concentration equation. A new eddy viscosity model is proposed in the turbulence modelled equations to couple the velocity field and the concentration field. The numerical results are compared with the experimental data, and good general agreement is achieved.
Bernstein polynomials in element-free Galerkin method
Authors: Valencia O F , Gómez-Escalonilla F J , Garijo D , Díez J L
Published: May 2011

In the recent decades, meshless methods (MMs), like the element-free Galerkin method (EFGM), have been widely studied and interesting results have been reached when solving partial differential equations. However, such solutions show a problem around boundary conditions, where the accuracy is not adequately achieved. This is caused by the use of moving least squares or residual kernel particle method methods to obtain the shape functions needed in MM, since such methods are good enough in the inner of the integration domains, but not so accurate in boundaries. This way, Bernstein curves, which are a partition of unity themselves, can solve this problem with the same accuracy in the inner area of the domain and at their boundaries.
Magnetic damping and stiffness effects on rod translation by active magnetic bearing
Authors: Tsai N-C , Li H-Y , Lin C-C , Chiang C-W , Wang P-L
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this article is to apply the wavelet transform algorithm to identify the magnetic damping and magnetic stiffness coefficients of the drive rod with which a set of 4-pole active magnetic bearing (AMB) is equipped. By taking advantage of time–frequency analysis feature, the ridge curve of rod free response after wavelet transformation can be extracted to find the natural frequency of the rod/AMB system. In other words, due to the influence of magnetized field by AMB, the stiffness of the rod dynamics is not linear any more and can be estimated from the curve of the amplitude versus frequency by wavelet transformation. On the other hand, the non-linear damping coefficients can be estimated from the derivative of amplitude versus amplitude by wavelet transformation of rod free vibration. It is found that the non-linear magnetic damping coefficients are up to second order in polynomial and the stiffness coefficient is mainly of third order, respectively. In addition, the identified second-order damping coefficient is negative and hence implies that under specific rod displacement and speed, the dynamic of rod/AMB system in axial direction is unstable.
The Rodewisch (1963) and Brandenburg (1974) propositions
Authors: Hess Volker
Published: May 2011

The Classic Text presents two documents of the development of modern social psychiatry. Both show the early beginnings of the reform movement in the GDR — in contrast to the FRG where the reform did not take place until the late 1970s. Adopted in 1963, the Rodewisch propositions formulate for the first time the central issues of the German reform debate in psychiatry. The Brandenburg propositions (1974) document how the reform movement was shifting from a political to a more individual perspective in the GDR.
Pollen-inferred climate changes and vertical shifts of alpine vegetation belts on the northern slope of the Nyainqentanglha Mountains (central Tibetan Plateau) since 8.4 kyr BP
Authors: Li Quan , Lu Houyuan , Zhu Liping , Wu Naiqin , Wang Junbo , Lu Xinmiao
Published: May 2011

Fossil pollen from Nam Co and modern pollen from altitudinal vegetation belts around the lake are investigated to reveal alpine vegetation succession in response to climate changes during the Holocene in the central Tibetan Plateau. The discriminant analysis on 37 topsoil samples shows that pollen samples from alpine steppe at lower elevations (<4800 m) and alpine meadow on upper slopes (4800–5200 m) can be distinguished by their pollen assemblages. Samples from alpine steppe contain more Artemisia (25.1%) and Poaceae pollen (11.5%), whereas those from alpine meadow are dominated by Cyperaceae pollen (>60%). Our result indicates that the pollen ratio of Artemisia to Cyperaceae (A/Cy) can be used as an indicator of the vertical shift of vegetation belts and temperature changes in the central Tibetan Plateau as suggested by previous studies. A history of the vertical shift of vegetation belts on the northern slope of Nyainqentanglha Mountains and climate changes since 8.4 kyr BP are thus recovered by 198 fossil pollen assemblages from a 332 cm core of Nam Co. Paleovegetation reconstructed from fossil pollen assemblages through discriminant analysis shows a general downward shift of altitudinal vegetation belts, suggesting a decline in the temperature trend since 8.4 kyr BP. This result is consistent with the reduction of A/Cy ratios. The fossil pollen record also reveals warm and wet climate during the early to mid Holocene, and cold and dry conditions during the late Holocene in the Nam Co area. A comparison of Holocene climatic reconstructions across the Plateau indicates that termination of maximum moisture at around 6–5.5 kyr BP in our record is associated with the southeastward retreat of the Southwest Monsoon.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplant for systemic lupus erythematosus: Interferon regulatory factor 7 activation correlates with the IFN signature and recurrent disease
Authors: Sweeney SE
Published: May 2011

The expression and activation of regulatory factors (IRF) and rinterferon (IFN) response genes were evaluated in a patient treated with autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) for refractory systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In SLE patients, genetic variants of IRF5 and IRF7 have been associated with increased serum IFNα levels, suggesting a pathogenic role in the type I IFN response. Clinical and molecular analyses of an SLE patient treated with high-dose immunosuppressive therapy and autologous stem cell transplant was performed. Western blot analysis showed that induction of IRF7 protein expression correlated with recurrent lupus disease activity. In addition, phosphorylation of IRF3 and activation of 4 E-BP1, a translational repressor of IRF7, preceded the disease flare. In SLE post-transplant, recurrent disease activity and induction of IRF7 protein expression correlated with activation of the IFN signature. This unique trend in regulation of IRF warrants further mechanistic investigation and confirmation with increased numbers of SLE patients.
Elevated production of serum B-cell-attracting chemokine-1 (BCA-1/CXCL13) is correlated with childhood-onset lupus disease activity, severity, and renal involvement
Authors: Ezzat MHM , EL-Gammasy TMA , Shaheen KYA , Shokr ESM
Published: May 2011

Abstract: Objectives. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototype of systemic autoimmune disease in which cytokines such as B lymphocyte chemoattractant (BLC) or CXC motif ligand 13 (CXCL13) play an important role as major regulators of B1 and B2 cell trafficking for activation of autoreactive T helper cells. CXCL13 can induce trafficking of the CXCR5+ T lymphocyte subset designated as follicular helper T lymphocytes which are specifically involved in autoantibody production during the development of lupus. Here, we ask whether serum levels of CXCL13 correlate with disease activity and severity and renal involvement in children with SLE. Methods. Serum samples from 40 children with SLE and 32 healthy controls were analyzed by ELISA for the concentrations of CXCL13. Results. Median (interquartile range (IQR) serum CXCL13 concentrations (pg/ml) were increasingly higher across the following groups: healthy controls (71.6 (66.6–81.8), SLE patients with inactive disease (140.8 (99.7–198.8), p = 0.0005 versus controls) and active disease (293.0 (105.5–489.8), p = 0.0001 versus controls) (inactive versus active; p < 0.0001). Concentrations of circulating CXCL13 correlated with SLEDAI ( r = 0.499, p = 0.029) and double-stranded DNA titers ( r = 0.71, p < 0.001). Moreover, median CXCL13 concentrations were higher in patients with renal involvement (270.6 (150.4–430.7) compared with those without renal involvement (120.6 (70.5–208.9). According to WHO pathological classification of lupus nephritis, median CXCL13 concentrations were higher in children with class III, IV and V nephritis compared with those with class I and II nephritis (333.9 (169.4–491.5) versus (180.4 (107.9–209.7). Conclusions. Our data indicate that an increased level of CXCL13 is a feature of SLE that correlates with disease activity and severity. CXCL13 expression in lupus nephritis represents a new pathogenetic mechanism of diagnostic and prognostic significance. The pharmacological regulation of CXCL13 and its receptor, CXCR5, expression may be a useful tool in the therapy of lupus nephritis.
Skin ‘Fairness’—Culturally Embedded Meaning and Branding Implications
Authors: Verma Harsh V.
Published: May 2011

Fairness of skin objectively refers to a certain level of pigmentation of skin. But in the culturally constructed world it is embedded with socially defined meaning. The pull for developing skin fairness stems from culturally held meaning and its role in negotiation of life roles and goals. Brand builders in the skin fairness market require cultivation of a deeper knowledge of psycho-social significance of fairness. The premium attached to fair skin is only a manifestation of some below the surface reality which must be accessed and understood. Brands must appropriate meaning beyond product functionality to develop higher order relevance for consumers. This study attempted to explore the culturally defined meaning of fairness employing the critical incident technique as method of inquiry. The socio-cultural conditioning in India places skin fairness on a higher altar of desirability and even godliness. The desirability of fairness stems from the hidden meaning. The study reveals fairness is both an end state itself and also instrumental. It is a personally desirable state for being ‘perfect’, ‘Godly’ and ‘treasure’. At the same time it is coveted for its instrumentality in achieving the desired end states of existence. The fairer people feel psychological ‘high’ by feeling ‘confident’, ‘attractive’, ‘admired’ and ‘envied’.
Non Linearity and Heteroskedasticity Effect on Stock Returns Volatility
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Dhankar Raj S.
Published: May 2011

This article investigates the asymmetric nature of US stock market return and effect of heteroskedasticity on stock return volatility. Further, this study also analyzes the relationship between stock returns and conditional volatility, and standard residuals. The monthly opening and closing prices of S & P 500 are used for the period from January 1950 to December 2007. The study applies Ljung-Box statistics to examine the autocorrelation in stock returns and GARCH (1, 1) and TAR-GARCH (1, 1) to test the heteroscedasticy, and asymmetric nature of stock returns respectively. The results of the study suggest the presence of non linearity, heteroskedasticity effect and asymmetric nature of stock returns. It also finds no correlation between stock returns and conditional volatility, however, the relationship between stock returns and standardized residuals is found positively significant. These findings bring out the essential elements of the modern investment theory that investors adjust their investment decisions with respect to expected volatility, however, they tend to earn extra risk premium for unexpected volatility. This study provides a robustness test of the conditional volatility and asymmetric impact of good and bad news.
Documentation of Advance Directives Among Home Health and Hospice Patients: United States, 2007
Authors: Resnick Helaine E. , Hickman Susan , Foster Gregory L.
Published: May 2011

This report provides nationally representative data on documentation of advance directives (ADs) among home health (HH) and hospice patients. Advance directives were recorded for 29% of HH patients and 90% of hospice discharges. Among HH patients, increasing age and use of assistive devices were associated with greater odds of having an AD, while being Hispanic or black (relative to white) and enrolled in Medicaid decreased the odds of having ADs. Among hospice discharges, being enrolled in Medicare and having 4 or 5 activities of daily living (ADL) limitations were associated with higher odds of ADs while depression, use of emergency services, and being black (relative to White) were associated with lower odds. Even after adjustment for potentially confounding factors, racial differences persist in AD documentation in both care settings.