bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpolation Between the Acoustic Mismatch Model and the Diffuse Mismatch Model for the Interface Thermal Conductance: Application to InN/GaN Superlattice
Authors: Kazan M.
Published: September 2011

A model for the thermal conductance of an interface is developed. It interpolates between the widely used acoustic mismatch model and diffuse mismatch model and accounts for the phonon dispersion curves of the materials in contact as calculated from first principles technique. In the present model, the interface morphology is modeled by assuming for the height a Gaussian probability density and a two-dimensional tangential autocorrelation function. The temperature as well as the interface conditions weight the probabilities for the diffuse scattering and the specular behavior of the phonon at the interface. The features of the developed expression for the transmission probability are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental results. The model is applied to predict the phonon events at the interfaces in the InN/GaN superlattice as functions of interface conditions. The results showed that in order to increase the thermal conductance of the InN/GaN superlattice one should decrease the interfaces’ tangential correlation and/or the interfaces’ root mean square roughness. The proposed model can be an efficient tool for engineering high thermal conductivity optoelectronic systems or efficient thermoelectric devices.
Thermal Assessment of Forced Convection Through Metal Foam Heat Exchangers
Authors: Tamayol A. , Hooman K.
Published: September 2011

Using a thermal resistance approach, forced convection heat transfer through metal foam heat exchangers is studied theoretically. The complex microstructure of metal foams is modeled as a matrix of interconnected solid ligaments forming simple cubic arrays of cylinders. The geometrical parameters are evaluated from existing correlations in the literature with the exception of ligament diameter which is calculated from a compact relationship offered in the present study. The proposed, simple but accurate, thermal resistance model considers: the conduction inside the solid ligaments, the interfacial convection heat transfer, and convection heat transfer to (or from) the solid bounding walls. The present model makes it possible to conduct a parametric study. Based on the generated results, it is observed that the heat transfer rate from the heated plate has a direct relationship with the foam pore per inch (PPI) and solidity. Furthermore, it is noted that increasing the height of the metal foam layer augments the overall heat transfer rate; however, the increment is not linear. Results obtained from the proposed model were successfully compared with experimental data found in the literature for rectangular and tubular metal foam heat exchangers.
Flow Structure in the Near-Wall Region of a Submerged Impinging Jet
Authors: Hammad Khaled J. , Milanovic Ivana
Published: September 2011

An experimental investigation was performed to study the flow structure of a submerged water jet impinging normally on a smooth and flat surface using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The jet issued from a 112 diameter long pipe which ensured fully developed turbulent flow conditions at the outlet. A semiconfined setting provided properly characterized flow boundary conditions. The Reynolds number based on jet mean exit velocity was Re = 15,895. The pipe-to-plate separation was varied between 1 and 8 pipe diameters. The current study focused on characterizing the flow structure close to the pipe outlet, in the impingement and wall-jet regions. Statistically averaged mean and RMS velocities are reported for a 6D wide and 1D high, near-plate, rectangular region.
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement of the Schottky barrier at the SiC(N)/Cu interface
Authors: King Sean W. , French Marc , Jaehnig Milt , Kuhn Markus , Boyanov Boyan , French Benjamin
Published: September 2011

Electrical leakage in low-k dielectric/Cu interconnects is a continuing reliability concern for advanced <22 nm technologies. One leakage mechanism deserving increased attention is electron transport across the Cu/dielectric capping layer interface. The Schottky barrier formed at this interface is an important parameter for understanding charge transport across this interface. In this report, we have utilized x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to investigate the Schottky barrier formed at the interface between polished Cu substrates and standard low-k a-SiC(N):H dielectric capping layers deposited by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition. The authors find the Schottky Barrier at this interface to range from 1.45 to 2.15 eV depending on a-SiC(N):H composition and to be largely independent of various in situ plasma pretreatments.
Faking Giants: The Evolution of High Prey Clearance Rates in Jellyfishes
Authors: Acuña José Luis , López-Urrutia Ángel , Colin Sean
Published: September 2011

Jellyfish process prey at the same rates as fish, suggesting that a shift to jellyfish-dominated systems is possible.
Soil Nitrites Influence Atmospheric Chemistry
Authors: Kulmala Markku , Petäjä Tuukka
Published: September 2011

Soil nitrite is a source of nitrous acid emissions that contribute to hydroxyl radical production.
Electrically Driven Insulation in the Central Nervous System
Authors: Araque Alfonso , Navarrete Marta
Published: September 2011

Electrically active axons drive local myelination.
Accuracy and bias on the estimation of aboveground biomass in the woody vegetation of the Sonoran Desert
Authors: Búrquez Alberto , Martínez-Yrízar Angelina
Published: September 2011

We developed allometric regressions for predicting aboveground biomass (AGB) in the Sonoran Desert. Information on canopy cover and height was collected and used to predict AGB from plant dimensions in twenty 25 m2plots that were also fully harvested. The comparison of these two methods showed that allometric equations without correction for bias led to gross AGB underestimation (four times lower than the true values for uncorrected logarithmic allometric equations). Among the tested correction factors, the ratio estimator highly reduced bias and increased accuracy. Validation of allometric estimates with whole-plot harvesting defined the best equation and the least biased correction factor. However, simple nonlinear power functions also gave accurate and unbiased estimates of AGB. We recommend the use of nonlinear models in lieu of traditional logarithm-transformed models. Correction for bias and field verification should be considered in allometric regressions used to predict AGB. In the absence of validation by direct biomass measurements, allometric predictions derived from linearization of ln-transformed data should be taken with care.
Inflorescence and floral ontogeny inOsteospermum ecklonis(Asteraceae)
Authors: Dadpour Mohammad Reza , Naghiloo Somayeh , Gohari Gholamreza
Published: September 2011

Development of the capitulum inflorescence with different types of florets in Asteraceae is an interesting issue in the field of plant evolution and development. In this study, ontogeny of the inflorescence and florets of Osteospermum ecklonis (DC.) Norl., an ornamental and evergreen subshrub, was investigated using epi-illumination light microscopy. The initiation and subsequent development of florets on the highly convex inflorescence apex occurred acropetally, except for the ray florets, which showed a lag in initiation. Organogenesis in disc florets started with unidirectional initiation of corolla lobes from the adaxial side and then proceeded by simultaneous appearance of five stamen and finally two median carpel primordia. Significant developmental features included the lack of pappus differentiation, formation of nonsyngenesious stamens, and formation of the ovule-less ovary. Ray florets showed significant differences from disc florets as reflected by the zygomorphic shape of floral apex and shift of floral merosithy from pentamery to tetramery. Also, expansion of corolla lobes to form the ligule and the formation of staminodia were observed. It is hypothesized that the actinomorphic pentamerous disc florets are most primitive among the family from which the tetramerous ray florets are derived. Accordingly, ray florets evolved from disc florets under long-term selective pressure and play a crucial role in enhancing reproductive success.
Expression patterns of nitrate, phosphate, and sulfate transporters in Arabidopsis roots exposed to different nutritional regimes
Authors: Bao Shengjie , An Lijun , Su Sha , Zhou Zhongjing , Gan Yinbo
Published: September 2011

Nitrate transporter AtNRT2.1 is the key component of the inducible high-affinity nitrate transport system in Arabidopsis thaliana . AtNRT2.1 is primarily expressed in roots and known to be mainly involved under fluctuating nitrogen supply conditions. It is still unknown whether AtNRT2.1 is involved in plant responses to other nutrient fluctuations. In this study, we found that the expression of AtNRT2.1 was also upregulated by phosphate and sulfate resupply, which may indicate a novel role in regulating phosphate and sulfate responses. Our study also demonstrated that expression of the major Pi transporter (Pht1) family member, AtPHT1;2, was suppressed by nitrate starvation and induced by nitrate resupply and sulfate starvation in comparison to the continuous nutrient treatment. Moreover, this study also showed that expression of sulfur transporter SULTR1;1 and AtNRT2.1 was suppressed by complete nutrient starvation and induced by complete nutrient resupply. These novel results provide strong evidence that there is crosstalk among the nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate transporters in regulating different nutrient fluctuations in Arabidopsis roots.
A review of the efficacy and safety of nanoparticle-based oral insulin delivery systems
Authors: Card Jeffrey W. , Magnuson Bernadene A.
Published: September 2011

Nanotechnology is providing new and innovative means to detect, diagnose, and treat disease. In this regard, numerous nanoparticle-based approaches have been taken in an effort to develop an effective oral insulin therapy for the treatment of diabetes. This review summarizes efficacy data from studies that have evaluated oral insulin therapies in experimental models. Also provided here is an overview of the limited safety data that have been reported in these studies. To date, the most promising approaches for nanoparticle-based oral insulin therapy appear to involve the incorporation of insulin into complex multilayered nanoparticles that are mucoadhesive, biodegradable, biocompatible, and acid protected and into nanoparticles that are designed to take advantage of the vitamin B12 uptake pathway. It is anticipated that the continued investigation and optimization of nanoparticle-based formulations for oral delivery of insulin will lead to a much sought-after noninvasive treatment for diabetes. Such investigations also may provide insight into the use of nanoparticle-based formulations for peptide- and protein-based oral treatment of other diseases and for various food-related purposes.
Chemokine stimulation promotes enterocyte migration through laminin-specific integrins
Authors: Agle Kimberle A. , Vongsa Rebecca A. , Dwinell Michael B.
Published: September 2011

Intestinal homeostasis is regulated in part by the single cell layer of the mucosal epithelium. This physical barrier is a prominent part of the innate immune system and possesses an intrinsic ability to heal damage and limit infection. The restitutive epithelial migration phase of healing requires dynamic integrin adhesion to the extracellular matrix. Previously, we have shown that the homeostatic chemokine CXCL12 utilizes intracellular calcium to increase enterocyte migration on laminin. The aim of these studies was to investigate integrin specificity and, in turn, functional responses elicited by CXCL12 stimulation. Analysis of cellular adhesion and spreading revealed CXCL12 preferentially activated laminin-specific integrins compared with collagen IV-binding integrins. Laminin-specific cell adhesion and spreading elicited by CXCL12 was dependent on intracellular calcium. CXCL12 increased activated β1-integrins on the surface of epithelial cells compared with untreated cells. RT-PCR confirmed expression of the laminin-binding integrins-α3β1, -α6β1, and -α6β4. Interestingly, shRNA-mediated depletion of laminin-specific α3- or α6-integrin subunits revealed differential functions. α3-Integrin knockdown reduced basal as well as inducible restitution. Depletion of α6-integrin specifically abolished CXCL12-stimulated, but not TGF-β1 or basal, migration. Depletion with either shα3-integrin or shα6-integrin prevented CXCL12-evoked cell spreading. Our data indicate that CXCL12 stimulates the inside-out activation of laminin-specific integrins to promote cell migratory functions. Together, our findings support the notion that extracellular mediators within the gastrointestinal mucosa coordinate cell-matrix interactions during epithelial restitution.
Interaction between vestibulo-cardiovascular reflex and arterial baroreflex during postural change in rats
Authors: Abe Chikara , Kawada Toru , Sugimachi Masaru , Morita Hironobu
Published: September 2011

To examine a cooperative role for the baroreflex and the vestibular system in controlling arterial pressure (AP) during voluntary postural change, AP was measured in freely moving conscious rats, with or without sinoaortic baroreceptor denervation (SAD) and/or peripheral vestibular lesion (VL). Voluntary rear-up induced a slight decrease in AP (−5.6 ± 0.8 mmHg), which was significantly augmented by SAD (−14.7 ± 1.0 mmHg) and further augmented by a combination of VL and SAD (−21 ± 1.0 mmHg). Thus we hypothesized that the vestibular system sensitizes the baroreflex during postural change. To test this hypothesis, open-loop baroreflex analysis was conducted on anesthetized sham-treated and VL rats. The isolated carotid sinus pressure was increased stepwise from 60 to 180 mmHg while rats were placed horizontal prone or in a 60° head-up tilt (HUT) position. HUT shifted the carotid sinus pressure-sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) relationship (neural arc) to a higher SNA, shifted the SNA-AP relationship (peripheral arc) to a lower AP, and, consequently, moved the operating point to a higher SNA while maintaining AP (from 113 ± 5 to 114 ± 5 mmHg). The HUT-induced neural arc shift was completely abolished in VL rats, whereas the peripheral arc shifted to a lower AP and the operating point moved to a lower AP (from 116 ± 3 to 84 ± 5 mmHg). These results indicate that the vestibular system elicits sympathoexcitation, shifting the baroreflex neural arc to a higher SNA and maintaining AP during HUT.
Revisiting Shimoda's “Shuuchaku-Kishitsu” (Statothymia): A Japanese View of Manic-Depressive Patients
Authors: Tsuda Hitoshi
Published: September 2011

Although the empiric paradigm is now dominant in academic research, in Japan quite a few psychiatric clinicians still take phenomenological-anthropological approaches into consideration, especially when they address manic-depressive illness with typical endogenous features. This is because Shimoda's concept of “shuuchaku-kishitsu” (statothymia) has been widely accepted, together with other phenomenological views of continental origin. In the present paper the author first delineates Shimoda's concept which is based on observations of patients' personality features and the characteristics of their emotionality. He then attempts to refine this concept in spatiotemporal terms, presenting the view that in patients the past self tends to adhere to the present self (the term “shuuchaku” means “adhering to” or “preoccupied with”). He also considers that patients tend to incorporate “soto” (outer space) into “uchi” (inner space), where they believe that symbiotic relations are preserved. Finally, he argues the clinical significance of the presented views in the cultural milieu in which Japanese psychiatric practices are situated.
Ghrelin O-Acyl Transferase: Bridging Ghrelin and Energy Homeostasis
Authors: Shlimun Andrew , Unniappan Suraj
Published: September 2011

Ghrelin O-acyl transferase (GOAT) is a recently identified enzyme responsible for the unique n-acyl modification of ghrelin, a multifunctional metabolic hormone. GOAT structure and activity appears to be conserved from fish to man. Since the acyl modification is critical for most of the biological actions of ghrelin, especially metabolic functions, GOAT emerged as a very important molecule of interest. The research on GOAT is on the rise, and several important results reiterating its significance have been reported. Notable among these discoveries are the identification of GOAT tissue expression patterns, effects on insulin secretion, blood glucose levels, feeding, body weight, and metabolism. Several attempts have been made to design and test synthetic compounds that can modulate endogenous GOAT, which could turn beneficial in favorably regulating whole body energy homeostasis. This paper will focus to provide an update on recent advances in GOAT research and its broader implications in the regulation of energy balance.
Rapidly Growing Chondroid Syringoma of the External Auditory Canal: Report of a Rare Case
Authors: Vasileiadis Ioannis , Kapetanakis Stylianos , Petousis Aristotelis , Karakostas Euthimios , Simantirakis Christos
Published: September 2011

Introduction. Chondroid syrinoma of the external auditory canal is an extremely rare benign neoplasm representing the cutaneous counterpart of pleomorphic adenoma of salivary glands. Less than 35 cases have been reported in the international literature.Case Presentation. We report a case of a 34-year-old male in whom a rapidly growing, well-circumscribed tumor arising from the external auditory canal was presented. Otoscopy revealed a smooth, nontender lesion covered by normal skin that almost obstructs the external auditory meatus. MRI was performed to define the extension of the lesion. It confirmed the presence of a1.5×0.8 cm T2 high-signal intensity lesion in the superior and posterior wall of EAC without signs of bone erosion. The patient underwent complete resection of the tumor. The diagnosis was confirmed by histopathologic examination.Conclusion. Although chondroid syringoma is extremely rare, it should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of an aural polyp. Chondroid syringomas are usually asymptomatic, slow-growing, single benign tumors in subcutaneous or intradermal location. In our case, the new information is that this benign tumor could present also as a rapidly growing lesion, arising the suspicion for malignancy.
A Novel Ranking Method Based on Subjective Probability Theory for Evolutionary Multiobjective Optimization
Authors: Wei Shuang , Leung Henry
Published: September 2011

Most of the engineering problems are modeled as evolutionary multiobjective optimization problems, but they always ask for only one best solution, not a set of Pareto optimal solutions. The decision maker′s subjective information plays an important role in choosing the best solution from several Pareto optimal solutions. Generally, the decision‐making processing is implemented after Pareto optimality. In this paper, we attempted to incorporate the decider′s subjective sense with Pareto optimality for chromosomes ranking. A new ranking method based on subjective probability theory was thus proposed in order to explore and comprehend the true nature of the chromosomes on the Pareto optimal front. The properties of the ranking rule were proven, and its transitivity was presented as well. Simulation results compared the performance of the proposed ranking approach with the Pareto‐based ranking method for two multiobjective optimization cases, which demonstrated the effectiveness of the new ranking approach.
Gear Defect Modeling of a Multiple‐Stage Gear Train
Authors: Sommer Andrew , Meagher Jim , Wu Xi
Published: September 2011

This study demonstrates the transient and steady state dynamic loading on teeth within a two‐stage gear transmission arising from backlash and geometric manufacturing errors by utilizing a nonlinear multibody dynamics software model. Backlash between gear teeth which is essential to provide better lubrication on tooth surfaces and to eliminate interference is included as a defect and a necessary part of transmission design. Torsional vibration is shown to cause teeth separation and double‐sided impacts in unloaded and lightly loaded gearing drives. Vibration and impact force distinctions between backlash and combinations of transmission errors are demonstrated under different initial velocities and load conditions. The backlash and manufacturing errors in the first stage of the gear train are distinct from those of the second stage. By analyzing the signal at a location between the two stages, the mutually affected impact forces are observed from different gear pairs, a phenomenon not observed from single pair of gears. Frequency analysis shows the appearance of side band modulations as well as harmonics of the gear mesh frequency. A joint time‐frequency response analysis during startup illustrates the manner in which contact forces increase during acceleration.
Existence Conditions for Bounded Solutions of Weakly Perturbed Linear Impulsive Systems
Authors: Boichuk Alexander , Langerová Martina , Škoríková Jaroslava
Published: September 2011

The weakly perturbed linear nonhomogeneous impulsive systems in the form , and i ∈ ℤ are considered. Under the assumption that the generating system (for ε = 0) does not have solutions bounded on the entire real axis for some nonhomogeneities and using the Vishik‐Lyusternik method, we establish conditions for the existence of solutions of these systems bounded on the entire real axis in the form of a Laurent series in powers of small parameter ε with finitely many terms with negative powers of ε, and we suggest an algorithm of construction of these solutions.
Control of Dams Using Pλ,τM Policies When the Input Process Is a Nonnegative Lévy Process
Authors: Abdel-Hameed Mohamed
Published: September 2011

We consider Pλ,τM policy of a dam in which the water input is an increasing Lévy process. The release rate of the water is changed from 0 to M and from
M to 0 (M>0) at the moments when the water level upcrosses level λ and downcrosses level τ   (τ<λ), respectively. We determine the potential of the dam content and compute the total discounted as well as the long-run average cost. We also find the stationary distribution of the dam content. Our results extend the results in the literature when the water input is assumed to be a Poisson process.
BRIT1/MCPH1 Expression in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia and Its Regulation of the G2/M Checkpoint
Authors: Giallongo C. , Tibullo D. , La Cava P. , Branca A. , Parrinello N. , Spina P. , Stagno F. , Conticello C. , Chiarenza A. , Vigneri P. , Palumbo G.A. , Di Raimondo F.
Published: September 2011

BRIT1 (BRCT-repeat inhibitor of hTERT expression), also known as microcephalin (MCPH1), is a crucial gene in the complex cellular machine that is devoted to DNA repair and acts as a regulator of both the intra-S and G2/M checkpoints. The most important role of BRIT1/MCPH1 in the regulation of cell cycle progression appears to be the G2/M checkpoint. The K562 and peripheral blood cells of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients at diagnosis were found to downregulate BRIT1/MCPH1. However, we could not find any correlation between bcr/abl activity and the BRIT1/MCPH1 level. In order to study the genomic instability of CML cells, we evaluated the ability of these cells to arrest mitotic division after exposure to hydroxyurea, a known genotoxic agent. We showed that CML cells continue to proliferate without the activation of the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint arrest or of the apoptotic mechanism. This behavior may predispose the cells to accumulate genomic defects. In conclusion, we found that CML cells have a low BRIT1/MCPH1 level and show a defective G2/M arrest, confirming that these cells have a constitutive genomic instability.
Clot Architecture Is Altered in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms and Correlates With Aneurysm Size
Authors: Scott D. Julian A. , Prasad Priya , Philippou Helen , Rashid Sheikh Tawqeer , Sohrabi Soroush , Whalley Daniel , Kordowicz Andy , Tang Quen , West Robert M. , Johnson Anne , Woods Janet , Ajjan Ramzi A. , Ariëns Robert A.S.
Published: September 2011

Objective—

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is characterized by widening of the aorta. Once the aneurysm exceeds 5.5 cm, there is a 10% risk of death due to rupture. AAA is also associated with mortality due to other cardiovascular disease. Our aim was to investigate clot structure in AAA and its relationship to aneurysm size.

Methods and Results—

Plasma was obtained from 49 controls, 40 patients with small AAA, and 42 patients with large AAA. Clot formation was studied by turbidity, fibrin pore structure by permeation, and time to half lysis by turbidity with tissue plasminogen activator. Plasma clot pore size showed a stepwise reduction from controls to small to large AAA. Lag phase for plasma clot formation and time to half lysis were prolonged, with smaller AAA samples showing intermediate response. Clot structure was normal in clots made with fibrinogen purified from patients compared with controls, suggesting a role for other plasma factors. Endogenous thrombin potential and turbidity using tissue factor indicated that the effects were independent of changes in thrombin generation.

Conclusion—

Patients with AAA form denser, smaller pored plasma clots that are more resistant to fibrinolysis, and these characteristics correlate with aneurysm size. Clot structure may play a role in AAA development and concomitant cardiovascular disease.
Self-Reported Stroke Symptoms Without a Prior Diagnosis of Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Kleindorfer Dawn , Judd Suzanne , Howard Virginia J. , McClure Leslie , Safford Monika M. , Cushman Mary , Rhodes David , Howard George
Published: September 2011

Background and Purpose—

Previously in the REasons for Geographic And Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) cohort, we found 18% of the stroke/transient ischemic attack-free study population reported ≥1 stroke symptom at baseline. We sought to evaluate the additional impact of these stroke symptoms on risk for subsequent stroke.

Methods—

REGARDS recruited 30,239 US blacks and whites, aged 45+ years in 2003 to 2007 who are being followed every 6 months for events. All stroke events are physician-verified; those with prior diagnosed stroke or transient ischemic attack are excluded from this analysis. At baseline, participants were asked 6 questions regarding stroke symptoms. Measured stroke risk factors were components of the Framingham Stroke Risk Score.

Results—

After excluding those with prior stroke or missing data, there were 24 412 participants in this analysis with a median follow-up of 4.4 years. Participants were 39% black, 55% female, and had median age of 64 years. There were 381 physician-verified stroke events. The Framingham Stroke Risk Score explained 72.0% of stroke risk; individual components explained between 0.2% (left ventricular hypertrophy) and 5.7% (age+race) of stroke risk. After adjustment for Framingham Stroke Risk Score factors, stroke symptoms were significantly related to stroke risk: for each stroke symptom reported, the risk of stroke increased by 21% per symptom.

Conclusions—

Among participants without self-reported stroke or transient ischemic attack, prior stroke symptoms are highly predictive of future stroke events. Compared with Framingham Stroke Risk Score factors, the impact of stroke symptom on the prediction of future stroke was almost as large as the impact of smoking and hypertension and larger than the impact of diabetes and heart disease.
Risk Factors for Tracheostomy and Effect of Tracheostomy Timing on Outcome in the Elderly Critically Ill Surgical Patient
Authors: Savel Richard H. , Shiloh Ariel L.
Published: September 2011

Background: Controversy remains regarding optimal timing of tracheostomy (T). We performed a retrospective cohort study to determine if there was any benefit to early T; independent risk factors for T were also to be determined. Methods: ICU patients on mechanical ventilation (MV) from March 2004 - 2006 (n = 651) were extracted from our ICU database, with 114 patients undergoing a T. Outcomes for early (E) (≤ 10 d) T vs. late (L) (> 10 d) T were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed with the presence or absence of T being the dichotomous dependent variable. Data are presented as median (25th, 75th percentile). Results: Compared with patients who did not require a T, those who did were older and had higher APACHE II scores; they also had an increased incidence of CHF, vasopressor dependence, and being on the neurosurgical service. Both ICU LOS and hospital LOS were significantly lower in group E vs. group L. Conclusions: In our cohort of elderly, critically ill, surgical patients, benefits associated with early T included decreases in ICU and hospital length of stay. Risk factors for T included a history of CHF, being a NSG, and MV > 5 days.
Implementation of Therapeutic Hypothermia After Cardiac Arrest in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Jamin Catherine , Hamilton Sarah E.
Published: September 2011

Sudden cardiac death is the most common cause of death in the United States. Despite aggressive resuscitation, only one tenth to one third of successfully resuscitated patients survive to lead an independent life. Although evidence clearly supports the use of induced therapeutic hypothermia post–cardiac arrest, the precise data on how to best implement this process is still forthcoming. Protocol-based treatment regimens have been shown to improve morbidity and mortality of patients with common ICU illnesses. This article discusses the multiple elements compromising therapeutic hypothermia and presents recommendations for a protocol-driven regimen that can be implemented across varied critical care settings.
Coagulation Issues with Massive Transfusions
Authors: Turnbull John H. , Liu Linda L.
Published: September 2011

Intensivists frequently encounter coagulation abnormalities in critically ill patients. One of the more common etiologies is from massive blood loss. Current management strategies include higher transfusion ratios and new drugs that either increase clotting or decrease fibrinolysis. This article will review the pathophysiology and treatment options for the patient with a coagulopathy from massive transfusions.
Regularization proximal point algorithm for finding a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces
Authors: Kim Jong Kyu , Tuyen Truong Minh
Published: September 2011

We study the strong convergence of a regularization proximal point algorithm for finding a common fixed point of a finite family of nonexpansive mappings in a uniformly convex and uniformly smooth Banach space.

2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 47H09; 47J25; 47J30.
Leaching Behavior of Fluorine from Soil Stabilized with Recycled Gypsum from Plaster Board
Authors: Sakanakura Hirofumi , Endo Kazuto , Inoue Yuzo
Published: September 2011

In the present study, fluorine in recycled gypsum was focused on with regard to the morphology in gypsum as well as the leaching behavior when gypsum is mixed with soil as a recycling measure of soil improvement. The analytical results using an electron probe micro analyzer indicated that the chemical form of fluorine in recycled gypsum is calcium fluoride and fluoride apatite, and the form does not change after a leaching test on the soils according to the Japanese Leaching Test No.46 (JLT-46). JLT-46 was adopted for not only recycled gypsum but for mixtures of recycled gypsum and decomposed granite soil, exceeding the environmental standard limit value of 0.8 mg/L for both, by 6.8 and 2.4 mg/L, respectively. This means that countermeasures are prerequisite in the utilization of recycled gypsum as a soil improvement material. A pH-dependence test indicated that leaching of fluorine increases along with the decrease of pH in acidic conditions. A parallel batch leaching test using water indicated that release of fluorine occurs relatively slowly compared with calcium sulfate which reaches chemical equilibrium in less than 0.5 h. Decomposed granite soil has the effect of holding fluorine from leaching.
Adiós, El Cucuy
Authors: Casillas Dolores Inés
Published: September 2011

In 2008, famed radio host El Cucuy de la Mañana (The Morning Bogeyman) bid farewell to listeners of Spanish-language radio. For over two decades, El Cucuy’s trademark wit, cunning humor, and relentless use of laugh tracks boomed over the morning airwaves. Los Angelenos tuned in historic numbers to chuckle Monday through Friday to El Cucuy’s radio show where matters of immigration, both personally and politically, were laced with humorous fanfare. As opposed to anger, laughter as a response to injustices can suppress, trivialize, and “laugh off” the matter at hand. Despite El Cucuy’s departure, the lucrative pairing of immigration as fodder and laughter as its chief sentiment continues to reign on Spanish-language morning radio.
Combined pallidal and subthalamic nucleus stimulation in sporadic dystonia-parkinsonism
Authors: Wöhrle Johannes C. , Blahak Christian , Capelle Hans-Holger , Fogel Wolfgang , Bäzner Hansjoerg , Krauss Joachim K.
Published: September 2011

Multifocal deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a new technique that has been introduced recently. A 39-year-old man with dystonia-parkinsonism underwent the simultaneous implantation of subthalamic nucleus (STN) and globus pallidus internus (GPi) DBS electrodes.

While bilateral STN DBS controlled the parkinsonian symptoms well and allowed for a reduction in levodopa, the improvement of dystonia was only temporary. Additional GPi DBS also alleviated dystonic symptoms. Formal assessment at the 1-year follow-up showed that both the parkinsonian symptoms and the dystonia were markedly improved via continuous bilateral combined STN and GPi stimulation. Sustained benefit was achieved at 3 years postoperatively.
Detection of blood blister–like aneurysm and intramural hematoma with high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Horie Nobutaka , Morikawa Minoru , Fukuda Shuji , Hayashi Kentaro , Suyama Kazuhiko , Nagata Izumi
Published: September 2011

Blood blister–like aneurysms (BBAs) tend to have a more precipitous clinical course, enlarging rapidly and rebleeding frequently. Nevertheless, they often present a diagnostic challenge because of the characteristic morphological features of a wide neck and shallow outpouching of the medial wall. The authors present the case of a 34-year-old woman who suffered a subarachnoid hemorrhage whose cause could not be determined on the initial imaging with digital subtraction (DS) angiography and CT angiography. Interestingly, MR imaging studies obtained on the 7th day revealed an intramural hematoma on the dorsal wall of the left internal carotid artery, which helped in the diagnosis of BBA on the third DS angiography study obtained on the 8th day, and in the surgical intervention on the 10th day. This case supports the hypothesis that focal dissection contributes to the formation of BBAs. Use of MR imaging in the subacute stage, in addition to DS and CT angiography, might be helpful in the diagnosis of BBAs.
Applied Sciences—Connecting Theories with Practice
Authors: Kobayashi Takayoshi
Published: September 2011

Applied sciences cover many interdisciplinary fields that put basic sciences to application and make big changes by taking the one not-so-small step from “knowing how” to “knowing how-to”, the serendipity of which is often intriguing. Applied sciences are so deeply entrenched in almost all aspects of our daily lives. To provide an advanced forum for scholars all over the world to discuss and communicate the cutting-edge development in this field, on behalf of the Editorial Board members, I am honored to introduce Applied Sciences, a scholarly, peer-reviewed open access journal. [...]
Exploiting the Nucleotide Substrate Specificity of Repair DNA Polymerases To Develop Novel Anticancer Agents
Authors: Crespan Emmanuele , Garbelli Anna , Amoroso Alessandra , Maga Giovanni
Published: September 2011

The genome is constantly exposed to mutations that can originate during replication or as a result of the action of both endogenous and/or exogenous damaging agents [such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), UV light, genotoxic environmental compounds, etc.]. Cells have developed a set of specialized mechanisms to counteract this mutational burden. Many cancer cells have defects in one or more DNA repair pathways, hence they rely on a narrower set of specialized DNA repair mechanisms than normal cells. Inhibiting one of these pathways in the context of an already DNA repair-deficient genetic background, will be more toxic to cancer cells than to normal cells, a concept recently exploited in cancer chemotherapy by the synthetic lethality approach. Essential to all DNA repair pathways are the DNA pols. Thus, these enzymes are being regarded as attractive targets for the development of specific inhibitors of DNA repair in cancer cells. In this review we examine the current state-of-the-art in the development of nucleotide analogs as inhibitors of repair DNA polymerases.
Symmetry and Evidential Support
Authors: Titelbaum Michael G.
Published: September 2011

This article proves that formal theories of evidential favoring must fail because they are inevitably language dependent. I begin by describing Carnap’s early confirmation theories to show how language dependence problems (like Goodman’s grue problem) arise. I then generalize to showthat any formal favoring theory satisfying minimal plausible conditions will yield different judgments about the same evidence and hypothesis when they are expressed in alternate languages. This does not just indict formal theories of favoring; it also shows that something beyond our evidence must be invoked to substantively favor one hypothesis over another.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Disease Severity Indices in Administrative Databases: A Systematic Review
Authors: VINET ÉVELYNE , KURIYA BINDEE , WIDDIFIELD JESSICA , BERNATSKY SASHA
Published: September 2011

Objective.

We aimed to systematically review rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease severity indices for use in administrative healthcare databases. We also provide an overview of alternative methods to control for RA disease severity in administrative database research.

Methods.

We conducted a systematic review of studies that developed/validated an index for RA disease severity using variables in administrative databases, and compared the convergent validity/reliability of the index with a standard measure of RA severity.

Results.

After reviewing 539 articles, 2 studies were included. The claims-based index for RA severity (CIRAS) was developed in one study. Components of the CIRAS included tests for inflammatory markers, number of chemistry panels/platelet counts ordered, rheumatoid factor test, number of rehabilitation and rheumatology visits, and Felty’s syndrome. The CIRAS correlated moderately well with a previously validated RA medical records-based index of severity. The second study assessed whether current and lifetime treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and/or biologics accurately predicted RA severity, as measured by the patient-reported Patient Activity Scale (PAS). Treatment variables did not fully distinguish patients in the highest and lowest quartiles of PAS scores (67.2% correctly classified).

Conclusion.

Two claims-based indices of RA severity were identified but have some limitations for routine use. A concerted effort from experts in the field is needed to define, develop, and validate a widely applicable measure of RA disease severity for administrative database research.
Les taxis-motos zemijan à Porto-Novo et Cotonou
Authors: Agossou Noukpo
Published: September 2011

Résumé Cet article se penche sur l’étude des lieux de transports générés par les zemijan , les taxis-motos de Porto-Novo et Cotonou. Après une présentation de ce mode de transport et du contexte général dans lequel il se développe, seront étudiées les transformations qu’a contribué à induire le zemijan en réponse à un besoin de mobilité. Seront enfin abordées les interactions avec les politiques urbaines pour envisager quelques solutions globales au problème de la mobilité urbaine.
Entre « Nord » et « Sud » : le dynamisme international des transporteurs turcs
Authors: de Tapia Stéphane
Published: September 2011

Résumé Comme nombre de pays « intermédiaires », la Turquie offre de grands contrastes entre sous-développement et intégration à l’économie mondiale, entre tradition et modernité. Le secteur des transports, intérieurs et internationaux, donne un bon exemple de ces évolutions rapides, parfois chaotiques, qui transforment profondément la société et l’économie. Plusieurs moments historiques rythment ces évolutions : 1923, création de la République, 1950, passage au multipartisme et première libéralisation, 1980, libéralisation et déréglementation pour une pleine entrée dans la mondialisation. Après avoir passé en revue les structures générales du secteur des transports, l’article se penche sur un acteur précis, l’Association des Transporteurs Internationaux ( Uluslararasi Nakliyeciler Derne ﬁ i ). Ce rassemblement de plus en plus puissant et efficace de professionnels de la route, cherche à peser dans la nouvelle approche turque du concept de société civile.
Héritage reconnu, patrimoine menacé : la maison traditionnelle à Tananarive
Authors: Fournet-Guérin Catherine
Published: September 2011

Résumé Les maisons traditionnelles de Tananarive constituent un patrimoine architectural original, fruit du métissage entre des apports merina et européens. Ces maisons font aujourd’hui l’objet d’enjeux symboliques et identitaires forts car elles sont à la fois considérées comme la maison des ancêtres, ce qui nécessite leur maintien au sein de la famille, et comme le support du statut des « hautes castes » qui s’efforcent aujourd’hui de les protéger pour affirmer une identité menacée. Toutefois, le processus de dégradation de ces maisons du xix e siècle est très avancé, parfois irréversible, tant les facteurs d’altération sont nombreux et tant les politiques de préservation apparaissent dérisoires dans un contexte économique fragile. Néanmoins, certains facteurs, variables selon les quartiers, permettent une évolution différenciée de l’état des maisons.
Individus et collectifs dans l'appropriation des ressources : le cas d'une communauté andine péruvienne
Authors: Aubron Claire
Published: September 2011

Résumé Dans un contexte de communauté paysanne où les rapports fonciers sont des combinaisons complexes de droits individuels et collectifs, les modalités d’appropriation des ressources et leurs évolutions conditionnent la durabilité des systèmes de production. Cet article se propose de les analyser dans le cas de Sinto, communauté andine péruvienne issue d’une coopérative formée par la réforme agraire et aujour-d’hui sur la voie de l’intensification laitière. Pour cela, nous traçons l’évolution historique de l’appropriation des ressources, puis utilisons la matrice des maîtrises foncières conçue par E. Le Roy, qui distingue plusieurs niveaux de contrôle des ressources (droits fonciers) et de collectifs s’appropriant les ressources. Ces analyses permettent de repérer les adaptations en cours concernant l’appropriation des ressources ainsi que les situations de crise.
Transcription Factor Lbx1 Expression in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Phenotypes
Authors: Schmitteckert Stefanie , Ziegler Cornelia , Kartes Liane , Rolletschek Alexandra
Published: September 2011

Transcription factor Lbx1 is known to play a role in the migration of muscle progenitor cells in limb buds and also in neuronal determination processes. In addition, involvement of Lbx1 in cardiac neural crest-related cardiogenesis was postulated. Here, we used mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells which have the capacity to develop into cells of all three primary germ layers. Duringin vitrodifferentiation, ES cells recapitulate cellular developmental processes and gene expression patterns of early embryogenesis. Transcript analysis revealed a significant upregulation ofLbx1at the progenitor cell stage. Immunofluorescence staining confirmed the expression of Lbx1 in skeletal muscle cell progenitors and GABAergic neurons. To verify the presence of Lbx1 in cardiac cells, triple immunocytochemistry of ES cell-derived cardiomyocytes and a quantification assay were performed at different developmental stages. Colabeling of Lbx1 and cardiac specific markers troponin T, α-actinin, GATA4, and Nkx2.5 suggested a potential role in early myocardial development.
The global middle-atmosphere aerosol model MAECHAM5-SAM2: comparison with satellite and in-situ observations
Authors: Hommel R. , Timmreck C. , Graf H. F.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. In this paper we investigate results from a three-dimensional middle-atmosphere aerosol-climate model which has been developed to study the evolution of stratospheric aerosols. Here we focus on the stratospheric background period and evaluate several key quantities of the global distribution of stratospheric aerosols and their precursors with observations and other model studies. It is shown that the model fairly well reproduces in situ observations of the aerosol size and number concentrations in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UT/LS). Compared to measurements from the limb-sounding SAGE II satellite instrument, modelled integrated aerosol quantities are more biased the lower the moment of the aerosol population is. Both findings are consistent with earlier work analysing the quality of SAGE II retrieved e.g. aerosol surface area densities in the volcanically unperturbed stratosphere (SPARC/ASAP, 2006; Thomason et al., 2008; Wurl et al., 2010). The model suggests that new particles are formed over large areas of the LS, albeit nucleation rates in the upper troposphere are at least one order of magnitude larger than those in the stratosphere. Hence, we suggest that both, tropospheric sulphate aerosols and particles formed in situ in the LS are maintaining the stability of the stratospheric aerosol layer in the absence of direct stratospheric emissions from volcanoes. Particle size distributions are clearly bimodal, except in the upper branches of the stratospheric aerosol layer where aerosols evaporate. Modelled concentrations of condensation nuclei (CN) are smaller than measured in regions of the aerosol layer where aerosol mixing ratios are largest. This points to an overestimated particle growth by coagulation. Transport regimes of tropical stratospheric aerosol have been identified from modelled aerosol mixing ratios and correspond to those deduced from satellite extinction measurements. We found that convective updraft in the Asian Monsoon region significantly contributes to both stratospheric aerosol load and size. The timing of formation and descend of layers of fine mode particles in the winter and spring polar stratosphere (CN layer) are well reproduced by the model. Where temperatures in the stratosphere increase with altitude, nucleation is unlikely to occur. Nevertheless, in these regions we find a significant concentration of fine mode aerosols. The place of origin of these particles is in the polar stratosphere. They are mixed into the mid-latitudes by planetary waves. There enhanced condensation rates of sulphuric acid vapour counteract evaporation and extend aerosol lifetime in the upper branches of the stratospheric aerosol layer. Measured aerosol precursors concentrations, SO2 and sulphuric acid vapour, are fairly well reproduced by the model throughout the stratosphere.