bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projeto de Turismo de Base Comunitária Tartaruga Imbricata, Brasil / Guiana Francesa
Authors: Kornijezuk Nádia Bandeira Sacenco
Published: March 2012

Em novembro de 2009, participei, durante nove dias, de uma experimentação de turismo chamada Projeto de Turismo de Base Comunitária Tartaruga Imbricata, numa rota de integração do Parque Nacional do Cabo Orange, no Brasil, com a Guiana Francesa. Essa viagem foi o primeiro trabalho de campo para a minha tese em Geografia e Gestão Ambiental (em andamento). Essa edição da experimentação visava propiciar a um grupo de gestores franceses, participantes de um seminário de cunho terapêutico chamado “Descobrir-se em terras desconhecidas”, a oportunidade de viver alguns dias em condições materiais rudimentares em uma natureza inóspita, convivendo com comunidades locais. A experiência incluiu: travessias em catraias, trechos em botes infláveis, viagens de camionete em rodovias perigosas, e o melhor: longos trechos de rio a bordo do barco Peixe – Boi, que se tornaria nosso hotel, meio de transporte, refeitório e palco de intensas sessões do seminário Se découvrir en terres inconnues. De forma geral a experimentação mostrou resultado positivo. Concluí que o turismo de base comunitária, da forma como foi realizado no Parque Nacional do Cabo Orange, teve dois efeitos principais: a experiência singular de conviver com comunidades ribeirinhas e o  aprofundamento das relações entre o parque nacional e o seu entorno. Ao final, anexei trechos de entrevistas realizadas com moradores de comunidades ribeirinhas vizinhas do parque nacional e também de um documento raro encontrado nesta viagem: um levantamento sócio-cultural de uma das comunidades, realizado por professores de História e alunos da escola da Vila Velha do Cassiporé.
Inhibitory Receptors on Lymphocytes: Insights from Infections
Authors: Odorizzi Pamela M. , Wherry E. John
Published: March 2012

Costimulatory and inhibitory receptors are critical regulators of adaptive immune cell function. These pathways regulate the initiation and termination of effective immune responses to infections while limiting autoimmunity and/or immunopathology. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding of inhibitory receptor pathways and their roles in different diseases and/or infections, emphasizing potential clinical applications and important unanswered mechanistic questions. Although significant progress has been made in defining the influence of inhibitory receptors at the cellular level, relatively little is known about the underlying molecular pathways. We discuss our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms for key inhibitory receptor pathways, highlight major gaps in knowledge, and explore current and future clinical applications.
IL-15 Can Signal via IL-15Rα, JNK, and NF-κB To Drive RANTES Production by Myeloid Cells
Authors: Chenoweth Meghan J. , Mian M. Firoz , Barra Nicole G. , Alain Tommy , Sonenberg Nahum , Bramson Jonathan , Lichty Brian D. , Richards Carl D. , Ma Averil , Ashkar Ali A.
Published: March 2012

IL-15 plays many important roles within the immune system. IL-15 signals in lymphocytes via trans presentation, where accessory cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells present IL-15 bound to IL-15Rα in trans to NK cells and CD8+ memory T cells expressing IL-15/IL-2Rβ and common γ chain (γc). Previously, we showed that the prophylactic delivery of IL-15 to Rag2−/−γc−/− mice (mature T, B, and NK cell negative) afforded protection against a lethal HSV-2 challenge and metastasis of B16/F10 melanoma cells. In this study, we demonstrated that in vivo delivery of an adenoviral construct optimized for the secretion of human IL-15 to Rag2−/−γc−/− mice resulted in significant increases in spleen size and cell number, leading us to hypothesize that IL-15 signals differently in myeloid immune cells compared with lymphocytes, for which IL-15/IL-2Rβ and γc expression are essential. Furthermore, treatment with IL-15 induced RANTES production by Rag2−/−γc−/− bone marrow cells, but the presence of γc did not increase bone marrow cell sensitivity to IL-15. This IL-15–mediated RANTES production by Rag2−/−γc−/− bone marrow cells occurred independently of the IL-15/IL-2Rβ and Jak/STAT pathways and instead required IL-15Rα signaling as well as activation of JNK and NF-κB. Importantly, we also showed that the trans presentation of IL-15 by IL-15Rα boosts IL-15–mediated IFN-γ production by NK cells but reduces IL-15–mediated RANTES production by Rag2−/−γc−/− myeloid bone marrow cells. Our data clearly show that IL-15 signaling in NK cells is different from that of myeloid immune cells. Additional insights into IL-15 biology may lead to novel therapies aimed at bolstering targeted immune responses against cancer and infectious disease.
Minimal Change Disease as a Paraneoplastic Manifestation of Solid Malignant Tumors
Authors: Yong Tuck Y. , Khow Kareeann S.F. , Li Jordan Y.Z.
Published: March 2012

Solid malignant tumors are associated with a wide range of paraneoplastic manifestations including glomerular diseases. Membranous nephropathy is commonly associated with solid malignancies but minimal change disease (MCD) has predominantly been reported in association with Hodgkin's lymphoma. The association between MCD and solid malignant tumors has not previously been well described. All case reports and series in the English medical literature of patients with MCD and solid malignant tumors, including malignant thymoma, were systematically reviewed. Thirty-one patients with non-thymoma solid malignant tumors and 26 patients with malignant thymoma associated with MCD were identified. Nephrotic syndrome was present in 91% (52 of 57) of cases. Among those with malignant thymoma and MCD, 16 of 25 (64%) patients whose renal function were reported had impaired renal function, defined as serum creatinine over 120 mmol/L, at the time of presentation. In the solid malignancy group, 15 of 25 (60%) had renal impairment. In the malignant thymoma group, complete, partial or no remission of MCD was observed in 11, 5 and 8 cases, respectively, within the follow-up interval of each report. In the non-thymoma group, 12 of 31 went into complete remission and 10 were in partial remission. Nine cases showed no response to the treatment. There is an association between the activity of MCD and the malignancy status. Death was reported in 15 of 23 patients with solid non-thymoma malignancies and 6 of 13 with malignant thymoma. MCD is associated with solid malignant tumors infrequently as a paraneoplastic manifestation. The response of MCD to treatment and survival of this group of patients can be variable depending on the disease stage of the associated malignancy.
Constructing a systems psychodynamic wellness model
Authors: Henning Sanchen , Cilliers Frans
Published: March 2012

Orientation: The researchers constructed a Systems Psychodynamic Wellness Model (SPWM) by merging theory and concepts from systems psychodynamics and positive psychology. They then refined the model for application in organisations during a Listening Post (LP) that comprised experienced subject experts.Research purpose: The purpose of the research was to construct and refine the SPWM in order to understand psychological wellness at the individual, group and organisational levels.Motivation for the study: There is no psychological wellness model that integrates the principles of systems psychodynamics and positive psychology. Systems psychodynamics traditionally focuses on so-called negative behaviour whilst positive psychology tends to idealise positive behaviour. This research tried to merge these views in order to apply them to individual, group and organisational behaviour.Research design, approach and method: The researchers used qualitative, descriptive and conceptual research. They conducted an in-depth literature study to construct the model. They then refined it using the LP.Main findings: The researchers identified 39 themes. They categorised them into three different levels. Three first-level themes emerged as the highest level of integration: identity, hope and love. The nine second-level themes each consisted of three more themes. They were less complex and abstract than the first-level themes. The least complex 27 third-level themes followed.Practical/managerial implications: One can apply the SPWM as a qualitative diagnostic tool for understanding individual, group and organisational wellness and for consulting on systemic wellness.Contribution/value-add: The SPWM offers a model for understanding individual, group and organisational wellness and for consulting on systemic wellness.
The impact of silo mentality on team identity: An organisational case study
Authors: Cilliers Frans , Greyvenstein Henk
Published: March 2012

Orientation: Organisational silos do not only refer to conscious structures, but also to an unconscious state of mind and mentality that takes on a life of its own. Silos result in the splitting of organisational artefacts and relationships, and impact negatively on relationship forming between individuals and within teams.Research purpose: The purpose of this research was to describe how the silo mentality impacts on team identity.Motivation for the study: During a recent organisational consultation the researchers realised that a so-called silo phenomenon had much more unexplained unconscious behaviour than was traditionally realised in terms of organisational development. It is hoped that findings from this qualitative study could give consultants entry into what happens below the surface in the silos’ unconscious.Research design, approach and method: A qualitative and descriptive research design using a case study strategy was used. Data gathering consisted of 25 narrative interviews. Using discourse analysis four themes manifested, integrated into four working hypotheses and a research hypothesis. Trustworthiness and ethical standards were ensured.Main findings: Themes that emerged were the physical environment and structure, intra-group relations, experiences of management, and intergroup relations.Practical/managerial implications: Consulting on silo behaviour as physical structures only may not be successful in changing organisational behaviour. The silo resembles an iceberg – the largest part is below the surface.Contribution/value-add: The findings evidenced silo behaviour to be an unconscious phenomenon influencing team identity negatively. Consultants are urged to study these manifestations towards understanding silos and their effect on team identity better.
Long-Term Use of Atazanavir in the Treament of HIV-Infected patients
Authors: Martín-Carbonero Luz , Soriano Vicente
Published: March 2012

Atazanavir (ATV) is an HIV protease inhibitor (PI) that was approved as antiretroviral agent in year 2003. Ritonavir (RTV) enhances ATV plasma exposure and increases its barrier to resistance. Antiretroviral therapy with ATV plus RTV (ATV/r) has demonstrated high potency for achieving virological suppression in antiretroviral-naive patients and in simplification strategies. In rescue interventions, ATV/r-based combinations have shown to be equivalent in terms of viral response to other PI/r-containing regimens. In contrast with all other PIs, ATV has also demonstrated efficacy when given unboosted with RTV, an option attractive in special situations. Other benefits of the drug are its good metabolic and gastrointestinal profile. Its main adverse event is hyperbilirubinemia, since ATV inhibits the hepatic uridin-glucoronyl-transferase. A signature mutation at the protease gene, I50L, confers loss of susceptibility to the drug whereas it may confer hypersusceptibility to other PIs. Many ATV studies have provided data until or beyond week 96, supporting the efficacy and safety of the drug in the long-term.
Unsteady hydromagnetic Couette flow within a porous channel with Hall effects
Authors: Seth GS , Singh JK , Mahato GK
Published: March 2012

Unsteady hydromagnetic Couette flow of a viscous, incompressible and electrically conducting fluid between two infinitely long parallel porous plates, taking Hall current into account, in the presence of a transverse magnetic field is studied. Fluid flow within the channel is induced due to impulsive movement of the lower plate of the channel. Magnetic lines of force are assumed to be fixed relative to the moving plate. Solution of the governing equations is obtained by Laplace transform technique. The expression for the shear stress at the moving plate due to primary and secondary flows is also derived. Asymptotic behavior of the solution valid for small and large values of time t is analyzed to gain some physical insight into the flow pattern. Numerical values of the primary and secondary velocities are displayed graphically versus non-dimensional channel width variable η for various values of Hall current parameter m, magnetic parameter M2 , suction/injection parameter S and time t whereas the numerical values of shear stress at the moving plate due to primary and secondary flows are presented in tabular form for different values of m, M2 , S and t.
Some multiple generating functions involving Mittag-Leffler’s functions
Authors: Kamarujjama M , Khan NU , Khan WA
Published: March 2012

In the paper it will be shown that generating functions of hyper Bessel functions due to Humbert and Delerue can be extended to a new class of generating relations for generalized Mittag-Leffler’s functions. A number of new and known double and multiple generating functions involving the product of classical polynomials and functions are considered as special cases.
A study on the machining parameters optimization of micro-end milling process
Authors: Periyanan PR , Natarajan U , Yang SH
Published: March 2012

Micro-machining is the basic technology of micro-engineering for the production of micro-sized parts and components. Microend milling is the most important micromachining process, widely used for the manufacturing industries due to its capability of producing tedious geometric surfaces with good accuracy and surface finish. In micro end milling material removal rate is one of the important aspects, which require attention both from industry personnel as well as in Research and development. In modern industry one of the trends is to manufacture low cost product in short time. MRR which indicates processing time of the work piece and it is an important factor that greatly influences production rate and cost. MRR greatly vary with the change of cutting process parameters. This paper focuses the taguchi technique for the optimization in micro-end milling operation to achieve maximum metal removal rate (MRR) considering the spindle speed, feed rate and depth of cut as the cutting parameters. An orthogonal array, signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and Pareto analysis of variance (ANOVA) are employed to analyze the effect of these milling parameters. The analysis of the result shows that the optimal combination for higher metal removal rate (MRR) is medium cutting speed, high feed rate and high depth of cut. Using Taguchi method for design of experiment (DOE), other significant effects such as the interaction among milling parameters are also investigated. The study shows that the Taguchi method is suitable to solve the stated problem. Based on the verification experiment it is concluded that the percentage of error of response was less.
Quasi-stationary planetary waves in late winter Antarctic stratosphere temperature as a possible indicator of spring total ozone
Authors: Kravchenko V. O. , Evtushevsky O. M. , Grytsai A. V. , Klekociuk A. R. , Milinevsky G. P. , Grytsai Z. I.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Stratospheric preconditions for the annual Antarctic ozone hole are analyzed using the amplitude of quasi-stationary planetary waves in temperature as a predictor of total ozone column behaviour. It is found that the quasi-stationary wave amplitude in August is highly correlated with September–November total ozone over Antarctica with correlation coefficient (r) as high as 0.83 indicating that quasi-stationary wave effects in late winter have a persisting influence on the evolution of the ozone hole during the following three months. Correlation maxima are found in both the lower and middle stratosphere. These likely result from the influence of wave activity on ozone depletion due to chemical processes, and ozone accumulation due to large-scale ozone transport, respectively. Both correlation maxima indicate that spring total ozone tends to increase in the case of amplified activity of quasi-stationary waves in late winter. Since the stationary wave number one dominates the planetary waves that propagate into the Antarctic stratosphere in late austral winter, it is largely responsible for the stationary zonal asymmetry of the ozone hole relative to the South Pole. Processes associated with zonally asymmetric ozone and temperature which possibly contribute to differences in the persistence and location of the correlation maxima are discussed.
Satellite constraint for emissions of nitrogen oxides from anthropogenic, lightning and soil sources over East China on a high-resolution grid
Authors: Lin J.-T.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Vertical column densities (VCDs) of tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) retrieved from space provide valuable information to estimate emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) inversely. Accurate emission attribution to individual sources, important both for understanding the global biogeochemical cycling of nitrogen and for emission control, remains difficult. This study presents a regression-based multi-step inversion approach to estimate emissions of NOx from anthropogenic, lightning and soil sources individually for 2006 over East China on a 0.25° long × 0.25° lat grid, employing the DOMINO product version 2 retrieved from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument. The inversion is done gridbox by gridbox to derive the respective emissions, taking advantage of differences in seasonality between anthropogenic and natural sources. Lightning and soil emissions are combined together for any given gridbox due to their similar seasonality; and their different spatial distributions are used implicitly for source separation to some extent. The nested GEOS-Chem model for East Asia is used to simulate the seasonal variations of different emission sources and impacts on VCDs of NO2 for the inversion purpose. Sensitivity tests are conducted to evaluate key assumptions embedded in the inversion process. The inverse estimate suggests annual budgets of about 7.1 TgN (±39%), 0.21 TgN (±61%), and 0.38 TgN (±65%) for the a posteriori anthropogenic, lightning and soil emissions, respectively, about 18–23% higher than the respective a priori values. The enhancements in anthropogenic emissions are largest in cities and areas with extensive use of coal, particularly in the north in winter, as evident on the high-resolution grid. Derived soil emissions are consistent with recent bottom-up estimates. They are less than 6% of anthropogenic emissions annually, increasing to about 13% for July. Derived lightning emissions are about 3% of anthropogenic emissions annually and about 10% in July. Overall, anthropogenic emissions are found to be the dominant source of NOx over East China with important implications for nitrogen control.
Improved instrumental line shape monitoring for the ground-based, high-resolution FTIR spectrometers of the Network for the Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change
Authors: Hase F.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. We propose an improved monitoring scheme for the instrumental line shape (ILS) of high-resolution, ground-based FTIR (Fourier Transform InfraRed) spectrometers used for chemical monitoring of the atmosphere by the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). Good ILS knowledge is required for the analysis of the recorded mid-infrared spectra. The new method applies a sequence of measurements using different gas cells instead of a single calibration cell. Three cells are used: cell C1 is a refillable cell offering 200 mm path length and equipped with a pressure gauge (filled with 100 Pa N2O), cells C2 and C3 are sealed cells offering 75 mm path length. C2 is filled with 5 Pa of pure N2O. Cell C3 is filled with 16 Pa N2O in 200 hPa technical air, so provides pressure-broadened N2O lines. We demonstrate that an ILS retrieval using C1 improves significantly the sensitivity of the ILS retrieval over the current calibration cells used in the network, because this cell provides narrow fully saturated N2O lines. The N2O columns derived from C2 and C3 allow the performance of a highly valuable closure experiment: adopting the ILS retrieved from C1, the N2O columns of C2 and C3 are derived. Because N2O is an inert gas, both columns should be constant on long timescales. Apparent changes in the columns would immediately attract attention and indicate either inconsistent ILS results or instrumental problems of other origin. Two different cells are applied for the closure experiment, because the NDACC spectrometers observe both stratospheric and tropospheric gases: C2 mimics signatures of stratospheric gases, whereas C3 mimics signatures of tropospheric gases.
The quantitative reconstruction of the palaeoclimate between 5200 and 4300 cal yr BP in the Tianshui Basin, NW China
Authors: Sun N. , Li X. Q.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The quantitative reconstruction of the palaeoclimate is a prerequisite for understanding climate processes at time scales of centuries and millennia. Here, the coexistence approach (CA) was applied to reconstruct climatic factors quantitatively based on the fossil charcoal records between 5200 and 4300 cal yr BP in the Tianshui Basin, NW China. The CA analysis showed that the climate of the Tianshui Basin belonged to the northern subtropical zone between 5200 and 4300 cal yr BP. The mean annual temperature (MAT) was approximately 13.2 °C, and the mean annual precipitation (MAP) was approximately 778 mm between 5200 and 4900 cal yr BP. The MAT was approximately 13.2 °C, and the MAP was approximately 688 mm between 4800 and 4300 cal yr BP. The MAT was approximately 2.2 °C higher than today, and the MAP was approximately 280 mm higher than today from 5200 to 4900 cal yr BP. The MAT was also approximately 2.2 °C higher than today from 4800 to 4300 cal yr BP, while the MAP was approximately 196 mm higher than today. No abrupt cold event occurred between 5200 and 4300 cal yr BP; however, a drought tendency appeared after around 4800 cal yr BP.
Development of the high-order decoupled direct method in three dimensions for particulate matter: enabling advanced sensitivity analysis in air quality models
Authors: Zhang W. , Capps S. L. , Hu Y. , Nenes A. , Napelenok S. L. , Russell A. G.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The high-order decoupled direct method in three dimensions for particulate matter (HDDM-3D/PM) has been implemented in the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model to enable advanced sensitivity analysis. The major effort of this work is to develop high-order DDM sensitivity analysis of ISORROPIA, the inorganic aerosol module of CMAQ. A case-specific approach has been applied, and the sensitivities of activity coefficients and water content are explicitly computed. Stand-alone tests are performed for ISORROPIA by comparing the sensitivities (first- and second-order) computed by HDDM and the brute force (BF) approximations. Similar comparison has also been carried out for CMAQ sensitivities simulated using a week-long winter episode for a continental US domain. Second-order sensitivities of aerosol species (e.g., sulfate, nitrate, and ammonium) with respect to domain-wide SO2, NOx, and NH3 emissions show agreement with BF results, yet exhibit less noise in locations where BF results are demonstrably inaccurate. Second-order sensitivity analysis elucidates poorly understood nonlinear responses of secondary inorganic aerosols to their precursors and competing species. Adding second-order sensitivity terms to the Taylor series projection of the nitrate concentrations with a 50% reduction in domain-wide NOx or SO2 emissions rates improves the prediction with statistical significance.
Discharge simulation in the sub-basins of the Amazon using ORCHIDEE forced by new datasets
Authors: Guimberteau M. , Drapeau G. , Ronchail J. , Sultan B. , Polcher J. , Martinez J.-M. , Prigent C. , Guyot J.-L. , Cochonneau G. , Espinoza J. C. , Filizola N. , Fraizy P. , Lavado W. , De Oliveira E. , Pombosa R. , Noriega L. , Vauchel P.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The aim of this study is to evaluate the ability of the ORCHIDEE land surface model to simulate streamflows over each sub-basin of the Amazon River basin. For this purpose, simulations are performed with a routing module including the influence of floodplains and swamps on river discharge and validated against on-site hydrological measurements collected within the HYBAM observatory over the 1980–2000 period. When forced by the NCC global meteorological dataset, the initial version of ORCHIDEE shows discrepancies with ORE HYBAM measurements with underestimation by 15% of the annual mean streamflow at Óbidos hydrological station. Consequently, several improvements are incrementally added to the initial simulation in order to reduce those discrepancies. First, values of NCC precipitation are substituted by ORE HYBAM daily in-situ rainfall observations from the meteorological services of Amazonian countries, interpolated over the basin. It highly improves the simulated streamflow over the northern and western parts of the basin, whereas streamflow over southern regions becomes overestimated, probably due to the extension of rainy spots that may be exaggerated by our interpolation method, or to an underestimation of simulated evapotranspiration when compared to flux tower measurements. Second, the initial map of maximal fractions of floodplains and swamps which largely underestimates floodplains areas over the main stem of the Amazon River and over the region of Llanos de Moxos in Bolivia, is substituted by a new one with a better agreement with different estimates over the basin. Simulated monthly water height is consequently better represented in ORCHIDEE when compared to Topex/Poseidon measurements over the main stem of the Amazon. Finally, a calibration of the time constant of the floodplain reservoir is performed to adjust the mean simulated seasonal peak flow at Óbidos in agreement with the observations.
Use of the 3-D scanner in mapping and monitoring the dynamic degradation of soils: case study of the Cucuteni-Baiceni Gully on the Moldavian Plateau (Romania)
Authors: Romanescu G. , Cotiuga V. , Asandulesei A. , Stoleriu C.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The 3-D scanner, a rapid and precise means of monitoring the dynamics of erosive processes, was first used nationally (Romania) as a new technique of cartography and monitoring the dynamics of soil degradation processes in the Moldavian Plateau. Three sets of measurements took place: in 2008, in 2009 and in 2010, at intervals of exactly one year for the first and six months for the second part. Qualitative and quantitative differences were highlighted. The data obtained were corroborated with precipitation in the area studied. The 3-D scanner has a measurement accuracy of 6 mm. The map highlights the dynamics of gullies developed and may form the basis for the prediction of soil degradation phenomena. The dynamics of the gully and the type of land use show that the phenomenon of erosion of the Moldova Plateau will continue to accelerate. In this case, the gully attacked and destroyed an archaeological site of national importance. The rate of advance of the Cucuteni-Baiceni gully is extremely high (10 m/1.6 years). There are no measures at all to reduce or fight the process of the gully advance. Maximum erosion occurred at the beginning of spring after a winter rich in rainfall, which made the terrain subject to the process of subsidence.
Safety and Efficacy of StarClose SE Vascular Closure System in High-Risk Liver Interventional Oncology Patients
Authors: Gaba Ron C. , Parvinian Ahmad , Trinos Estrellita M. , Padayao Suzanne V. , Francisco Rechel M. , Yap Felix Y. , Knuttinen M. Grace , Owens Charles A. , Bui James T.
Published: March 2012

Purpose

To assess the safety and efficacy of the StarClose SE Vascular Closure System (Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park IL, USA) in high-risk thrombocytopenic and coagulopathic interventional oncology (IO) patients.

Methods

In this single institution retrospective study, 63 high-risk thrombocytopenic or coagulopathic IO patients (M:F=51:12, mean age 58 years, range 31–88 years) who underwent 83 common femoral arteriotomy closures using the StarClose device were identified among all IO patients (n=131) undergoing StarClose closure (n=177) between 2008–2011. High-risk thrombocytopenia and coagulopathy were defined as platelet count ≤100 103/mL and international normalized ratio (INR) ≥1.5. Procedures included chemoembolization (n=67), radioembolization (n=8), and hepatic arterial mapping with technetium-99m macroaggrated albumin administration (n=8) for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (n=79) or liver metastases (n=4). Measured outcomes included technical success of arterial closure and closure-related adverse events, graded according to the Society of Interventional Radiology classification.

Results

In all cases, 5 French common femoral arterial access was used. Platelet count was ≤100 103/mL in 80/83 (96.4%) cases and INR was ≥1.5 in 35/83 (42.2%) cases. Mean pre-procedure platelet count was 71 (range 26–347) 103/mL and mean INR was 1.4 (range 1.0–2.1). The StarClose device effectively sealed the arteriotomy in 83/83 (100%) cases, 60/83 (72.3%) cases were first-time closures, and 20/83 (24.1%) cases were repeat closures. Small groin hematomas, graded as class A minor complications, developed in 3/83 (3.6%) cases. No other complications were encountered.

Conclusions

The StarClose SE Vascular Closure System confers high technical success and safety in common femoral arteriotomy closure in high-risk IO patients.
Local Convexity Shape-Preserving Data Visualization by Spline Function
Authors: Abbas Muhammad , Abd Majid Ahmad , Hj Awang Mohd Nain , Ali Jamaludin Md
Published: March 2012

The main purpose of this paper is the visualization of convex data that results in a smooth, pleasant, and interactive convexity-preserving curve. The rational cubic function with three free parameters is constructed to preserve the shape of convex data. The free parameters are arranged in a way that two of them are left free for user choice to refine the convex curve as desired, and the remaining one free parameter is constrained to preserve the convexity everywhere. Simple data-dependent constraints are derived on one free parameter, which guarantee to preserve the convexity of curve. Moreover, the scheme under discussion is, C1 flexible, simple, local, and economical as compared to existing schemes. The error bound for the rational cubic function is O(h3).
Optical Detection of Preneoplastic Lesions of the Central Airways
Authors: van der Leest C. , Amelink A. , van Klaveren R. J. , Hoogsteden H. C. , Sterenborg H. J. C. M. , Aerts J. G. J. V.
Published: March 2012

Current routine diagnosis of premalignant lesions of the central airways is hampered due to a limited sensitivity (white light bronchoscopy) and resolution (computer tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET)) of currently used techniques. To improve the detection of these subtle mucosal abnormalities, novel optical imaging bronchoscopic techniques have been developed over the past decade. In this review we highlight the technological developments in the field of endoscopic imaging, and describe their advantages and disadvantages in clinical use.
Don't Fence Me In!
Authors: Reiter Harold , Holshouser Arthur , Vennebush Patrick
Published: March 2012

This method for counting lattice octagons strengthens students' counting skills and geometrical thinking.
Enhancing Understanding of Transformation Matrices
Authors: Dick Jonathan , Childrey Maria
Published: March 2012

With the Common Core State Standards' emphasis on transformations, teachers need a variety of approaches to increase student understanding.
Partially constrained recovery of (meth)acrylate shape‐memory polymer networks
Authors: Lakhera Nishant , Yakacki Christopher M. , Nguyen Thao. D. , Frick Carl P.
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to characterize the partial strain recovery of a thermoset shape‐memory polymer under a constraining stress. Three polymer networks were synthesized from tert‐butyl acrylate and poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) solutions. The molecular weight and the weight fraction of the PEGDMA crosslinking monomer was altered systematically to maintain a constant glass transition temperature (Tg = 54°C) but tailorable rubbery moduli, which varied by almost an order of magnitude for the three polymer networks (E = 1.8–11.3°MPa). The shape‐recovery behavior of the polymers under a constraining stress was characterized for programming temperature below (20°C) and above (70°C) the Tg. The experiments revealed a peak in the recovered strain for samples programmed at 20°C. Recovered strain scaled linearly with the constraining stress by the rubbery modulus. The work performed by the shape‐memory polymer networks was observed to be primarily a function of constraining stress and crosslinking density, while programming temperature had a relatively mild influence; however, the efficiency of the shape‐memory effect was shown to be a function of constraining stress and programming temperature, but was independent of crosslinking density. Maximum work efficiencies (up to 45%) were observed for programming temperature of 70°C. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Design Rules for Nanogap‐Based Hydrogen Gas Sensors
Authors: Lee Junmin , Shim Wooyoung , Noh Jin‐Seo , Lee Wooyoung
Published: March 2012

Nanoscale gaps, which enable many research applications in fields such as chemical sensors, single‐electron transistors, and molecular switching devices, have been extensively investigated over the past decade and have witnessed the evolution of related technologies. Importantly, nanoscale gaps employed in hydrogen‐gas (H2) sensors have been used to reversibly detect H2 in an On–Off manner, and function as platforms for enhancing sensing performance. Herein, we review recent advances in nanogap design for H2 sensors and deal with various strategies to create these gaps, including fracture generation by H2 exposure, deposition onto prestructured patterns, island formation on a surface, artificial manipulation methods, methods using hybrid materials, and recent approaches using elastomeric substrates. Furthermore, this review discusses a new nanogap design that advances sensing capabilities in order to meet the diverse needs of academia and industry.
Effect of tin and lead chlorotriphenyl analogues on fruit fly Drosophila hydei and liposomes membrane
Authors: Mitrus Slawomir , Man Dariusz
Published: March 2012

This article presents the results of a study investigating the biological activity of triphenyltin chloride (TPhT) and two metalloorganic compounds, triphenyllead chloride (TPhL) and triphenylmethane chloride (TPhC), in their interaction with model membranes and the living organisms of fruit flies Drosophila hydei. The study of model membranes (sonicated liposomes) was conducted using the electron spin resonance (ESR) spin probe technique, whereas the experiment on fruit flies involved investigating their viability on media containing the studied compounds. The test results clearly demonstrate that TPhT affects fruit flies more actively than TPhL (complete lethality after 7 days of culture with a TPhT‐containing medium). No toxic effect of TPhC on fruit flies was shown. The results of the biological experiment were reflected in the physical experiment involving an ESR study of liposomes: TPhT activity manifested itself as a considerable increase in fluidity of the central region of the liposome lipid bilayer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 26:162–167 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.21403
Serum interleukin‐16 levels in patients with nasal polyposis
Authors: Keseroğlu Kemal , Banoğlu Erden , Kizil Yusuf , Aydil Utku , Gönül Ipek Işil , Yilmaz Metin , Ceylan Alper
Published: March 2012

Objective/Hypothesis:

Several inflammatory and allergic disorders have been reported to correlate with interleukin‐16 (IL‐16). IL‐16 is a highly potent chemotactic and chemoattractant molecule for eosinophils. Nasal polyposis (NP) has an inflammatory basis, and eosinophilia is a common finding in polyp tissue. In this study, we aimed to determine serum IL‐16 levels in NP patients.

Study Design:

Prospective controlled study in a tertiary academic hospital.

Methods:

Peripheral blood samples were obtained and used for serologic studies with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits to determine IL‐16 levels.

Results:

The study and the control groups consisted of 17 and 10 patients, respectively. Mean serum IL‐16 levels were significantly higher in the study group when compared to the control group (447.9 pg/mL vs. 260.2 pg/mL) (P < .001).

Conclusions:

Serum IL‐16 levels are significantly elevated in NP patients. This finding may represent identification of a valuable serum biomarker and potential therapeutic target in NP patients.
Synthesis and characterization of pyrene bearing amphiphilic miktoarm star polymer and its noncovalent interactions with multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Durmaz Hakan , Dag Aydan , Tunca Umit , Hizal Gurkan
Published: March 2012

A novel amphiphilic miktoarm star polymer, polystyrene‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐poly(methyl methacrylate), bearing a pyrene group at the end of PS arm (Pyrene‐PS‐PEG‐PMMA) was successfully synthesized via combination of atom transfer radical polymerization and click chemistry. The structure and composition of the amphiphilic miktoarm star polymer were characterized by gel permeation chromatography and 1H NMR. The functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via “π–π” stacking interactions with pyrene‐PS‐PEG‐PMMA miktoarm star polymer was accomplished and the resulting polymer‐MWCNTs hybrid was analyzed by using 1H NMR, UV–vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy and analytical techniques aforementioned confirmed that the noncovalent functionalization of MWCNT's with the amphiphilic miktoarm star polymer was successfully achieved. The MWCNT/pyrene‐PS‐PEG‐PMMA exhibited significant dispersion stability in common organic solvents such as dimethyl formamide, chloroform, and tetrahydrofuran. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
On the redox reactions of radicals with AlIII(phthalocyaninate) pendants covalently bonded to poly(ethyleneamide). Mechanistic alterations when radicals are formed inside pockets of micelle‐like polymer aggregates
Authors: Ruiz G. T. , Lappin A. G. , Ferraudi G.
Published: March 2012

The mechanisms of the redox reactions between a polymer containing Al(III) sulfonated phthalocyanine pendants, (AlIII(⌊NHS(O2)trspc)2−)2, and radicals have been investigated in this work. Pulse radiolysis and photochemical methods were used for these studies. Oxidizing radicals, OH•, HCO3•, (CH3)2COHCH2•, and N3•, as well as reducing radicals, eaq−, CO2•−, and (CH3)2C•OH, respectively accept or donate one electron forming pendent phthalocyanine radicals, AlIII(⌊NHS(O2)trspc •)− or 3−. The kinetics of the redox processes is consistent with a mechanism where the pendants react with radicals formed inside aggregates of five to six polymer strands. Electron donating radicals, that is, CO2•− and (CH3)2C•OH, produce one‐electron reduced phthalocyanine pendants that, even though they were stable under anaerobic conditions, donated charge to a Pt catalyst. While the polymer was regenerated in the Pt catalyzed processes, 2‐propanol and CO2 were respectively reduced to propane and CO. The reaction of SO3•− radicals with the polymer stood in contrast with the reactions of the radicals mentioned above. A first step of the mechanism, the coordination of the SO3•− radical to the Al(III), was subsequently followed by the formation of a SO3•−‐phthalocyanine ligand adduct. The decay of the SO3•−‐phthalocyanine ligand adduct in a ∼102 ms time domain regenerates the polymer, and it was attributed to the dimerization/disproportionation of SO3•− radicals escaping from the aggregates of polymer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Electromagnetic and microwave absorption properties of magnetic stainless steel powder in 2–18 GHz
Authors: Yang R. B. , Liang W. F. , Lou C. W. , Lin J. H.
Published: March 2012

Ferritic stainless steel (FSS) powder exhibits magnetic loss, dielectric loss, and excellent resistance to corrosion and oxidation. In this study, four types of ferritic grades 409L, 410L, 430L, and 434L powders are used as magnetic fillers of microwave absorbers. Using the transmission/reflection method, the complex permittivity and permeability of the FSS-epoxy composites can be measured in 2-18 GHz. The real part of complex permittivity ɛ′ does not exhibit significant variation (∼4.0 to 6.0%) while the corresponding imaginary part ɛ″, however, exhibits relatively large variation. The magnetic susceptibility (μ′−1) of FSS-epoxy absorber is negative above 10 GHz due to the natural magnetic resonance. For FSS 430L with 40 wt.% for a thickness of 3 mm, the calculated reflection loss at 9.7 GHz reaches −11.4 dB and the corresponding 409L absorber has minimum reflection loss −5.2 dB at 11.1 GHz.
Sameness in Biology
Authors: Ramsey Grant , Siebels Peterson Anne
Published: March 2012

Homology is a biological sameness relation that is purported to hold in the face of changes in form, composition, and function. In spite of the centrality and importance of homology, there is no consensus on how we should understand this concept. The two leading views of homology, the genealogical and developmental accounts, have significant shortcomings. We propose a new account, the hierarchical-dependency account of homology, which avoids these shortcomings. Furthermore, our account provides for continuity between special, general, and serial homology.
The Varieties of Molecular Explanation
Authors: Nathan Marco J.
Published: March 2012

Reductionists in biology claim that all biological events can be explained in terms of genes and macromolecules alone, while antireductionists argue that some biological events must be explained at a higher level. The literature, however, does not distinguish between different kinds of molecular explanation. The goal of this article is to identify and analyze three such kinds. The analysis of molecular explanations herein carries an important philosophical implication; in shunning crude reductionism and extreme versions of holism, we can combine the insights of thoughtful reductionists with sophisticated antireductionism. When this is done, the question of explanatory reductionism becomes less substantial than often supposed.
Coding exons function as tissue-specific enhancers of nearby genes
Authors: Birnbaum Ramon Y. , Clowney E. Josephine , Agamy Orly , Kim Mee J. , Zhao Jingjing , Yamanaka Takayuki , Pappalardo Zachary , Clarke Shoa L. , Wenger Aaron M. , Nguyen Loan , Gurrieri Fiorella , Everman David B. , Schwartz Charles E. , Birk Ohad S. , Bejerano Gill , Lomvardas Stavros , Ahituv Nadav
Published: March 2012

Enhancers are essential gene regulatory elements whose alteration can lead to morphological differences between species, developmental abnormalities, and human disease. Current strategies to identify enhancers focus primarily on noncoding sequences and tend to exclude protein coding sequences. Here, we analyzed 25 available ChIP-seq data sets that identify enhancers in an unbiased manner (H3K4me1, H3K27ac, and EP300) for peaks that overlap exons. We find that, on average, 7% of all ChIP-seq peaks overlap coding exons (after excluding for peaks that overlap with first exons). By using mouse and zebrafish enhancer assays, we demonstrate that several of these exonic enhancer (eExons) candidates can function as enhancers of their neighboring genes and that the exonic sequence is necessary for enhancer activity. Using ChIP, 3C, and DNA FISH, we further show that one of these exonic limb enhancers,Dync1i1exon 15, has active enhancer marks and physically interacts withDlx5/6promoter regions 900 kb away. In addition, its removal by chromosomal abnormalities in humans could cause split hand and foot malformation 1 (SHFM1), a disorder associated withDLX5/6. These results demonstrate that DNA sequences can have a dual function, operating as coding exons in one tissue and enhancers of nearby gene(s) in another tissue, suggesting that phenotypes resulting from coding mutations could be caused not only by protein alteration but also by disrupting the regulation of another gene.
The synbiotic effects of konjac glucomannan hydrolysates (GMH) and lactobacilli on the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Al‐Ghazzewi Farage H. , Tester Richard F. , Alvani Kamran
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how synbiotic combinations of lactobacilli with konjac glucomannan hydrolysate (GMH) may be used to reduce Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhimurium) growth in vitro.

Design/methodology/approach

Growth of S. aureus and S. typhimurium was assessed individually and when mixed with L. acidophilus in modified media supplemented with two per cent GMH. The effect of the GMH and the Lactobacillus strain on S. aureus growth was also investigated using the well diffusion test on Muller‐Hinton agar medium.

Findings

The results showed that L. acidophilus “out grew” the pathogens S. aureus and S. typhimurium in the presence of konjac glucomannan in the mixed cultures.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that konjac glucomannan hydrolysates combined with probiotic bacteria, may be used to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as S. aureus and S. typhimurium. These data support the development of an alternative approach to reduce infections and promote consumer health.
Alternative relationships among integrative beliefs, time‐based manufacturing and performance
Authors: Narasimhan Ram , Kull Thomas J. , Nahm Abraham
Published: March 2012

Purpose

Globalization and accelerating product life cycles require use of time‐based manufacturing practices (TBMP) accompanied by organizational integration. Evidence has suggested that cultural integrative beliefs (IB) influence the presence of TBMP but research has not investigated two alternative theory‐based views: TBMP influences the formation of integrative beliefs; and TBMP and integrative beliefs interact to enhance performance. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between espoused values, TBMP and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors empirically re‐analyze work carried out in 2004 by Nahm et al., using structural equations modeling and factor scores regression.

Findings

Support is found for the competing model that implies IB is a consequent of TBMP rather than an antecedent. This new theoretical perspective is not reconciled via the interaction model.

Practical implications

The authors' re‐examination suggests TBMP and IB are mutually reinforcing, implying that resources can be devoted to simultaneously implementing TBMP and IB, rather than a time‐consuming sequential strategy.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to empirically test three perspectives on how organizational culture and operations management practices interrelate. Conventional conceptions of cultural beliefs' role are questioned and a new perspective is offered. Additionally, the FSR method gives a structured approach to latent variable interaction modeling.