bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Architecture for Coastal Inundation and Flood Warning Prediction
Authors: Pietrafesa L.J. , Kelleher K. , Karl T. , Davidson M. , Peng M. , Bao S. , Dickey D. , Xie L. , Liu H. , Xia M.
Published: December 2011

The marine atmosphere, coastal ocean, estuary, harbor and river water systems constitute a physically coupled system. While these systems have always been heavily impacted by coastal storms, increases in population density, infrastructure, and personal and business merchandise have
exacerbated the economic and personal impacts of these events over the past half century. As such there has been increased focus on the need for more timely and accurate forecasts of impending events. Traditionally model forecast architectures for coastal storm surge, flooding and inundation
of coastal and inland areas have taken the approach of dealing with each system separately: rivers, estuaries, harbors and offshore facing areas. However, given advances in coupled modeling and the availability of real-time data, the ability to accurately predict and project coastal, estuary
and inland flooding related to the passage of high energy and wet atmospheric events is rapidly emerging and requires a new paradigm in system architecture. No longer do monthly averaged winds or river discharge or water levels have to be invoked in developing hindcasts for planning purposes
or for real-time forecasts. In 1999 a hurricane associated flood on the North Carolina coast took 56 lives and caused more than $6 billion in economic impacts. None of the models existing at that time were able to properly forecast the massive flooding and clearly called for a new model
paradigm. Here we propose a model system that couples atmospheric information to fully three dimensional, non-linear time dependent ocean basin, coastal and estuary hydrodynamic models coupled to interactive river models with input of real or modeled winds, observed or modeled precipitation,
measured and modeled water levels, and streamflow. The river and estuarine components must both be capable of going into modes of storage or accelerated discharge. Spatial scales must downscale in the horizontal from thousands to tens meters and in the vertical from hundreds to several centimeters.
Topography and elevation data should be of the highest resolution available, necessary for highly accurate predictions of the timing and location of the inundation and retreat of flood waters. Precipitation information must be derived from the optimal mix of direct radar, satellite and ground-based
observations. Creating the capability described above will advance the modernization of hydrologic services provided by the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration and provide more accurate and timely forecasts and climatologies of coastal and estuary flooding. The goal of these
climatologies and improved forecasts is to provide better information to local and regional planners, emergency managers, highway patrols and to improve the capacity of coastal communities to mitigate against the impacts of coastal flooding.
Development of a Coastal Ocean Observing System for the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Jochens Ann E. , Nowlin Worth D.
Published: December 2011

The Gulf of Mexico Coastal Ocean Observing System (GCOOS) is being developed as one of the regional coastal ocean observing systems under the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS), which is a contribution to the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS). GCOOS will be a sustained
ocean observing system that provides data, information, and products on marine and estuarine systems to a wide range of users. A GCOOS Regional Association (GCOOS-RA) has been established to develop GCOOS. Activities to build GCOOS have included development of an inventory of extant observing
systems, connection of real-time physical data from extant systems into the National Data Buoy Center via the Internet, and establishment and implementation of mechanisms for ongoing identification of (1) stakeholder requirements and priorities and (2) priority pilot projects to meet regional
needs. A storm surge and inundation workshop is being held to identify the measurements and products needed by emergency managers and responders to better predict and mitigate effects of storm surge and inundation in the southeastern U.S. and Gulf of Mexico. Funding for enhancements to the
GCOOS is being sought from governmental and private sources. For GCOOS to evolve to its full potential, new federal resources targeted to regional coastal ocean observing systems must be committed.
Krüppel-like Factors in Lymphocyte Biology
Authors: Hart Geoffrey T. , Hogquist Kristin A. , Jameson Stephen C.
Published: January 2012

The Krüppel-like factor family of transcription factors plays an important role in differentiation, function, and homeostasis of many cell types. While their role in lymphocytes is still being determined, it is clear that these factors influence processes as varied as lymphocyte quiescence, trafficking, differentiation, and function. This review will present an overview of how these factors operate and coordinate with each other in lymphocyte regulation.
Local Activation of Dendritic Cells Alters the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Disease in the Retina
Authors: Heuss Neal D. , Lehmann Ute , Norbury Christopher C. , McPherson Scott W. , Gregerson Dale S.
Published: January 2012

Interest in the identities, properties, functions, and origins of local APC in CNS tissues is growing. We recently reported that dendritic cells (DC) distinct from microglia were present in quiescent retina and rapidly responded to injured neurons. In this study, the disease-promoting and regulatory contributions of these APC in experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU) were examined. Local delivery of purified, exogenous DC or monocytes from bone marrow substantially increased the incidence and severity of EAU induced by adoptive transfer of activated, autoreactive CD4 or CD8 T cells that was limited to the manipulated eye. In vitro assays of APC activity of DC from quiescent retina showed that they promoted generation of Foxp3+ T cells and inhibited activation of naive T cells by splenic DC and Ag. Conversely, in vitro assays of DC purified from injured retina demonstrated an enhanced ability to activate T cells and reduced induction of Foxp3+ T cells. These findings were supported by the observation that in situ activation of DC before adoptive transfer of β-galactosidase–specific T cells dramatically increased severity and incidence of EAU. Recruitment of T cells into retina by local delivery of Ag in vivo showed that quiescent retina promoted development of parenchymal Foxp3+ T cells, but assays of preinjured retina did not. Together, these results demonstrated that local conditions in the retina determined APC function and affected the pathogenesis of EAU by both CD4 and CD8 T cells.
Difference in Th1 and Th17 Lymphocyte Adhesion to Endothelium
Authors: Alcaide Pilar , Maganto-Garcia Elena , Newton Gail , Travers Richard , Croce Kevin J. , Bu De-xiu , Luscinskas Francis W. , Lichtman Andrew H.
Published: January 2012

T cell subset-specific migration to inflammatory sites is tightly regulated and involves interaction of the T cells with the endothelium. Th17 cells often appear at different inflammatory sites than Th1 cells, or both subsets appear at the same sites but at different times. Differences in T cell subset adhesion to endothelium may contribute to subset-specific migratory behavior, but this possibility has not been well studied. We examined the adhesion of mouse Th17 cells to endothelial adhesion molecules and endothelium under flow in vitro and to microvessels in vivo and we characterized their migratory phenotype by flow cytometry and quantitative RT-PCR. More Th17 than Th1 cells interacted with E-selectin. Fewer Th17 than Th1 cells bound to TNF-α–activated E-selectin–deficient endothelial cells, and intravital microscopy studies demonstrated that Th17 cells engage in more rolling interactions with TNF-α–treated microvessels than Th1 cells in wild-type mice but not in E-selectin–deficient mice. Th17 adhesion to ICAM-1 was dependent on integrin activation by CCL20, the ligand for CCR6, which is highly expressed by Th17 cells. In an air pouch model of inflammation, CCL20 triggered recruitment of Th17 but not Th1 cells. These data provide evidence that E-selectin– and ICAM-1–dependent adhesion of Th17 and Th1 cells with endothelium are quantitatively different.
Downregulation of PCAF by miR-181a/b Provides Feedback Regulation to TNF-α–Induced Transcription of Proinflammatory Genes in Liver Epithelial Cells
Authors: Zhao Jian , Gong Ai-Yu , Zhou Rui , Liu Jun , Eischeid Alex N. , Chen Xian-Ming
Published: January 2012

Aberrant cellular responses to proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, are pathogenic features in most chronic inflammatory diseases. A variety of extracellular and intracellular feedback pathways has evolved to prevent an inappropriate cellular reaction to these proinflammatory cytokines. In this study, we report that TNF-α treatment of human and mouse cholangiocytes and hepatocytes downregulated expression of p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF), a coactivator and an acetyltransferase that promotes histone acetylation and gene transcription. Of these upregulated microRNAs in TNF-α–treated cells, miR-181a/b (miR-181a and miR-181b) suppressed translation of PCAF mRNA. Functional manipulation of miR-181a/b caused reciprocal alterations in PCAF protein expression in cultured cholangiocytes and hepatocytes. Inhibition of miR-181a/b function with anti-miRs blocked TNF-α–induced suppression of PCAF expression. Promoter recruitment of PCAF was shown to be associated with TNF-α–induced transcription of inflammatory genes. Intriguingly, pretreatment of cells with TNF-α inhibited transcription of inflammatory genes in response to subsequent TNF-α stimulation. Overexpression of PCAF or inhibition of miR-181a/b function with anti-miRs attenuated the inhibitory effects of TNF-α pretreatment on epithelial inflammatory response to subsequent TNF-α stimulation. Downregulation of PCAF and the inhibitory effects of TNF-α pretreatment on liver epithelial inflammatory response were further confirmed in a mouse model of TNF-α i.p. injection. These data suggest that PCAF is a target for miR-181a/b, and downregulation of PCAF by TNF-α provides negative feedback regulation to inflammatory reactions in liver epithelial cells, a process that may be relevant to the epigenetic fine-tuning of epithelial inflammatory processes in general.
Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation in Children with Supraventricular Tachycardias: Intermediate Term Follow up Results
Authors: Hafez Mm. , Abu-Elkheir Mm. , Shokier M. , Al-Marsafawy Hf. , Abo-Haded Hm. , El-Maaty M. Abo
Published: January 2012

The Purpose of the Study

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation represents an important advance in the management of children with cardiac arrhythmias and has rapidly become the standard and effective line of therapy for supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs) in pediatrics. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intermediate term follow up results of radiofrequency catheter ablation in treatment of SVT in pediatric age group.

Methods

A total of 60 pediatric patients (mean age = 12.4 ± 5.3 years, ranged from 3 years to 18 years; male: female = 37:23; mean body weight was 32.02 ± 12.3 kg, ranged from 14 kg to 60 kg) with clinically documented SVT underwent an electrophysiologic study (EPS) and RF catheter ablation at Children's Hospital Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt during the period from January 2008 to December 2009 and they were followed up until October 2011.

Results

The arrhythmias included atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT; n = 45, 75%), atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT; n = 6, 10%), and atrial tachycardia (AT; n = 9, 15%). The success rate of the RF catheter ablation was 93.3% for AVRT, 66.7% for AVNRT, and 77.8% for AT, respectively. Procedure-related complications were infrequent (7/60, 11.7%), (atrial flutter during RF catheter ablation (4/60, 6.6%); ventricular fibrillation during RF catheter ablation (1/60, 1.6%); transient complete heart block during RF catheter ablation (2/60, 3.3%)). The recurrence rate was 8.3% (5/60) during a follow-up period of 34 ± 12 months.

Conclusion

RF catheter ablation is an effective and safe method to manage children with SVT.
Novel Treatments for Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma and the Management of Emergent Toxicities
Authors: Lemech Charlotte , Arkenau Hendrik-Tobias
Published: January 2012

The last 12 months have seen the beginning of a new era in the treatment options available for patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma, a disease previously characterised by its poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Two mechanistically diverse agents have now demonstrated an overall survival benefit in different patient subgroups and further clinical trials are ongoing with emerging single agents and novel combinations. The first agent to demonstrate an overall survival benefit was the CTLA-4 antibody, ipilimumab, illustrating the importance of the immune system and immunomodulation in melanoma tumorigenesis. The second group of agents to show a survival benefit were the selective BRAF inhibitors, vemurafenib and GSK2118436, in patients who are BRAF V600 mutation positive. In addition, in the same BRAF mutant patient population, MEK inhibitors also show promising results and are currently under investigation in later stage trials. Although ipilimumab, BRAF and MEK inhibitors are just passing through the clinical trials arena, their use will rapidly become more widespread. Along with their significant clinical benefits, there are also unique adverse events related to these agents. Although the majority are mild and can be managed with supportive treatment, some toxicities require special management strategies. We outline up-to-date clinical development and management guidelines for ipilimumab, as well as the BRAF and MEK inhibitors.
The maximum rewards at the minimum price: Reinforcement rates and payback percentages in multi-line slot machines
Authors: Harrigan Kevin , Dixon Michael , MacLaren Vance , Collins Karen , Fugelsang Jonathan
Published: December 2011

Past research has shown that gamblers frequently use the mini-max strategy in multi-line slot machines, whereby the player places the minimum bet on the maximum number of lines. Through a detailed analysis and explanation of the design of multi-line slot machine games, we show that when using the mini-max strategy, the payback percentage remains unchanged, yet the reinforcement rate is significantly increased. This increase in reinforcement rate is mainly due to spins in which the amount won is less than the amount wagered, which we call losses disguised as wins. We have verified these conclusions by playing an actual slot machine game for 10,000 spins and recording the results. We believe that the high reinforcement rate that results from playing multiple lines on games of this type contributes to their potential addictiveness. We provide three theories for why players use the mini-max strategy and suggest further areas of research.
Gambling problems as a political framing-Safeguarding the monopolies in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Örnberg Jenny Cisneros , Tammi Tuukka
Published: December 2011

Many EU member states are currently rethinking their gambling laws and policies to adapt to European law and to take into account increased technological possibilities for the gambling industry and increased competition on national gambling markets. Some of the countries have responded to the new situation by giving up or remarkably weakening their monopolies, but other countries have, on the contrary, reformed their monopoly systems to strengthen them to meet the new challenges. This article analyses gambling policy reforms in Finland and Sweden, where the liberalisation trend has been contested to safeguard the monopoly systems. The main means have been an increased focus on gambling-related problems and emphasis on the responsible nature and particular capability of monopoly-based systems to tackle these problems. This has made it possible not only to keep the monopoly system intact but also to expand its field of activities to the Internet as a responsible measure.
Evaluation of the Light Energy Transmission and Bottom/Top Rate in Silorane and Methacrylate-based Composites with Different Photoactivation Protocols
Authors: Sinhoreti Mário Alexandre Coelho , Guiraldo Ricardo Danil , Consani Simonides , Consani Rafael Leonardo Xediek , de Camargo Bataglia Maysa Penteado , Fugolin Ana Paula Piovezan , Berger Sandrine Bittencourt , Lopes Murilo Baena , Moura Sandra Kiss
Published: January 2012

Aim

This study investigated the influence of different composite resin organic matrix (methacrylate – Filtek Z350 XT and silorane – Filtek P90) on light energy transmission through the composite and bottom/top rate.

Materials and methods

A light-emitting diode (New Blue Phase), light-curing unit was used with different photoactivation protocols (high-continuous mode – HCM, 1400 mW/cm2 for 20 seconds; low-continuous mode – LCM, 700 mW/cm2 for 40 seconds; and soft-start mode – SSM, 140 mW/cm2 for 5s followed by 39 seconds for 700 mW/cm2). Twenty specimens were prepared for each composite. The light energy transmission through the composite was calculated (n=10). The bottom/top rate of the same specimen was calculated (n=10). The data were compared by Tukey's test in different tests (light energy transmission through the composite and bottom/top rate).

Results

The light energy transmission through the Filtek Z350 XT composite (HCM – 576 mW/cm2, LCM – 238 mW/cm2, SSM – 232 mW/cm2) did not show statistical difference when compared with Filtek P90 composite (HCM – 572 mW/cm2, LCM – 233 mW/cm2, SSM – 230 mW/cm2). The bottom/top rate of the Filtek Z350 XT composite (HCM – 88.98%, LCM – 90.94%, SSM – 89.92%) was statistically higher than that of the Filtek P90 composite (HCM–77.29%, LCM–77.51%, SSM– 77.79%).

Conclusion

Light energy transmission through the composite was not influenced by the use of different dental composite restoratives. However, the bottom/top rate of the composites was influenced by the use of different dental composite restoratives.

Clinical significance

Insufficiently polymerized composite resin may present a large number of problems. For this reason, dental composite resins should have the similar deep surface polymerization as the top surface in dental restorations.

How to cite this article

Guiraldo RD, Consani S, Consani RLX, de Camargo Bataglia MP, Fugolin APP, Berger SB, Lopes MB, Moura SK, Sinhoreti MAC. Evaluation of the Light Energy Transmission and Bottom/Top Rate in Silorane and Methacrylate-based Composites with Different Photoactivation Protocols. J Contemp Dent Pract 2011;12(5):361-367.
Predictive Ability of 2-Day Measurement of Active Range of Motion on 3-Mo Upper-Extremity Motor Function in People With Poststroke Hemiparesis
Authors: Prager Eliza M. , Lang Catherine E.
Published: December 2011

OBJECTIVE. We determined (1) whether active range of motion (AROM) of shoulder flexion and wrist extension measured at the initial therapy evaluation in the acute hospital predicted upper-extremity (UE) motor function 3 mo after stroke and (2) whether the presence of nonmotor impairments influenced this prediction.

METHOD. We collected AROM data from 50 people with stroke during their initial acute hospital therapy evaluation and UE motor function data 3 mo later. Multiple regression techniques determined the predictive ability of initial AROM on later UE motor function.

RESULTS. Initial AROM explained 28% of the variance in UE motor function 3 mo poststroke. Nonmotor deficits did not contribute to the variance.

CONCLUSION. Compared with later AROM measurements, initial values did not adequately predict UE motor function 3 mo after stroke. Clinicians should use caution when informing clients of UE functional prognosis in the early days after stroke.
Immersion mode heterogeneous ice nucleation by an illite rich powder representative of atmospheric mineral dust
Authors: Broadley S. L. , Murray B. J. , Herbert R. J. , Atkinson J. D. , Dobbie S. , Malkin T. L. , Condliffe E. , Neve L.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Atmospheric dust rich in illite is transported globally from arid regions and impacts cloud properties through the nucleation of ice. We present measurements of ice nucleation in water droplets containing known quantities of an illite rich powder under atmospherically relevant conditions. The illite rich powder used here, NX illite, has a similar mineralogical composition to atmospheric mineral dust sampled in remote locations, i.e. dust which has been subject to long range transport, cloud processing and sedimentation. Arizona Test Dust, which is used in other ice nucleation studies as a model atmospheric dust, has a significantly different mineralogical composition and we suggest that NX illite is a better surrogate of natural atmospheric dust. Using optical microscopy, heterogeneous nucleation in the immersion mode by NX illite was observed to occur dominantly between 246 K and the homogeneous freezing limit. In general, higher freezing temperatures were observed when larger surface areas of NX illite were present within the drops. Homogenous nucleation was observed to occur in droplets containing low surface areas of NX illite. We show that NX illite exhibits strong particle to particle variability in terms of ice nucleating ability, with ~1 in 105 particles dominating ice nucleation when high surface areas were present. In fact, this work suggests that the bulk of atmospheric mineral dust particles may be less efficient at nucleating ice than assumed in current model parameterisations. For droplets containing ≤2 × 10−6 cm2 of NX illite, freezing temperatures did not noticeably change when the cooling rate was varied by an order of magnitude. The data obtained during cooling experiments (surface area ≤2 × 10−6 cm2) is shown to be inconsistent with the single component stochastic model, but is well described by the singular model (ns(236.2 K ≤ T ≤ 247.5 K) = exp(6.53043 × 104− 8.2153088 × 102T + 3.446885376T2 − 4.822268 × 10−3T3). However, droplets continued to freeze when the temperature was held constant, which is inconsistent with the time independent singular model. We show that this apparent discrepancy can be resolved using a multiple component stochastic model in which it is assumed that there are many types of nucleation sites, each with a unique temperature dependent nucleation coefficient. Cooling rate independence can be achieved with this time dependent model if the nucleation rate coefficients increase very rapidly with decreasing temperature, thus reconciling our measurement of nucleation at constant temperature with the cooling rate independence.
Reformulating the full-Stokes ice sheet model for a more efficient computational solution
Authors: Dukowicz J. K.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. The first-order or Blatter-Pattyn ice sheet model, in spite of its approximate nature, is an attractive alternative to the full Stokes model in many applications because of its reduced computational demands. In contrast, the unapproximated Stokes ice sheet model is more difficult to solve and computationally more expensive. This is primarily due to the fact that the Stokes model is indefinite and involves all three velocity components, as well as the pressure, while the Blatter-Pattyn discrete model is positive-definite and involves just the horizontal velocity components. The Stokes model is indefinite because it arises from a constrained minimization principle where the pressure acts as a Lagrange multiplier to enforce incompressibility. To alleviate these problems we reformulate the full Stokes problem into an unconstrained, positive-definite minimization problem, similar to the Blatter-Pattyn model but without any of the approximations. This is accomplished by introducing a divergence-free velocity field that satisfies appropriate boundary conditions as a trial function in the variational formulation, thus dispensing with the need for a pressure. Such a velocity field is obtained by vertically integrating the continuity equation to give the vertical velocity as a function of the horizontal velocity components, as is in fact done in the Blatter-Pattyn model. This leads to a reduced system for just the horizontal velocity components, again just as in the Blatter-Pattyn model, but now without approximation. In the process we obtain a new, reformulated Stokes action principle as well as a novel set of Euler-Lagrange partial differential equations and boundary conditions. The model is also generalized from the common case of an ice sheet in contact with and sliding along the bed to other situations, such as to a floating ice shelf. These results are illustrated and validated using a simple but nontrivial Stokes flow problem involving a sliding ice sheet.
Synergistic Cytotoxic Stress and DNA Damage in Clover (Trifolium repens) Exposed to Heavy Metal Soil from Automobile Refining Shops in Kashmir-Himalaya
Authors: Mohsin Bhat Towseef , Ansari M. Y. K. , Choudhary Sana , Aslam Rumana , Alka
Published: January 2012

Coexposure to heavy metals occurs in many occupational settings, such as automobile refining shops, pigment, and batteries production. Heavy metals around automobile refining shops were tested for their ability to induce synergistic cytogenetic effects in Trifolium repens L. by using the chromosomal aberrasions (CAs), micronucleus (MN) and comet assay. A significant increase in micronucleus (MN), chromosomal abrations (CAs), percentage of nuclei with comet tails (NCTs), the relative comet tail length (CTL), comet tail DNA (CT, DNA), and tail moment (TM) were observed with increased concentration of three heavy metals, like Cd, Pb, Hg. The present result indicate that exposure of T. repens to soils contaminated by heavy metals around automobile refining shops shows clastogenicity, cytotoxicity, and DNA damage at higher concentrations.
Heisenberg Model with Added Dzyaloshinskii-Moria Interaction
Authors: Soltani M. R. , Vahedi J. , Abolhassani M. R. , Masoudi A. A.
Published: January 2012

We have considered the 1D spin-(1/2) Heisenberg model with added Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction. The effect of a uniform magnetic field on the ground state phase diagram of the model is studied. We have mapped the model to an effective model which is known as the 1D XXZ in both uniform and staggered magnetic fields. By selecting a block of two or three spins, we have solved the Hamiltonian exactly. Our results show that the quantum phase transitions can be obtained from the block of pair or three spins.
Assessing Treatment Effect in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Hartman Douglas J , Krasinskas Alyssa M
Published: December 2011

Context.—Pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly forms of cancer (43 140 new cases per year; 36 800 deaths), and most people with pancreatic cancer do not survive past 5 years. New therapeutic regimens are constantly being evaluated in an attempt to reduce the rapid progression of this disease. Although some patients receive neoadjuvant therapy in an attempt to make a nonresectable or borderline-resectable tumor resectable, more patients with resectable disease are being enrolled in clinical trials that provide neoadjuvant therapy. This means more pancreatic resections must be evaluated for therapy effect. Histologic grading schemes for the assessment of posttherapy response have been described, but difficulties associated with determining the histologic features of treatment effect in pancreatic cancer have not been addressed.

Objectives.—To critically review the diagnostic criteria for proposed grading schemes for pancreatic cancer treated with neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy and to provide guidance to surgical pathologists who encounter treated pancreatic cancer resections.

Data Sources.—Published peer-reviewed literature and the personal experience of the authors.

Conclusions.—Assessment of treatment effect in pancreatic cancer is difficult. Pathologists need to be aware that some histologic features of treatment effect overlap with histologic features seen in untreated pancreatic cancer, such as tumor cell anaplasia, necrosis, and fibrosis. Careful assessment of pancreatic resections, including detailed gross examination and thorough histologic sampling, is important in accurately assessing treatment effect and improving patient outcomes.
The Practice of Pathology in Canada: Decreasing Pathologist Supply and Uncertain Outcomes
Authors: Colgan Terence J , Geldenhuys Laurette
Published: December 2011

Context.—Pathology organizations in the United States are preparing for a new era of health care reform. Trends in the supply of pathologists in Canada's managed care system may provide some useful insights in any analysis and projection of future pathologist needs in the United States.

Objective.—In this study, population-based Canadian databases were used to devise a parameter for physician supply, cancer cases per physician. The trend in this supply parameter for pathologists was compared to that for radiation oncologists.

Design.—The number of Canadian pathologists and radiation oncologists and the annual number of new cancer cases in each of 2 years, 1999 and 2009, were extracted from reliable databases. Cancer cases per pathologist and oncologist were calculated, and relative trends in supply of physicians in both specialties were identified.

Results.—The annual number of new cancer cases increased from 129 300 to 171 000 from 1999 to 2009. The absolute numbers of both pathologists and oncologists also increased in this time period. However, while the increase in the number of radiation oncologists led to an 8.2% decrease in cancer cases per radiation oncologist, the modest increase in the number of pathologists led to an increase of 17.1% in cancer cases per pathologist.

Conclusions.—There is a trend toward a decreasing supply of Canadian pathologists relative to that of cancer demands. This finding confirms an earlier population-based study showing a decreased supply relative to population and number of clinical physicians. It is uncertain whether this decreased supply is a result of appropriate application of new, efficient methods or whether health care has been rationed or adversely impacted. Outcome measures to monitor Canadian pathology practice quality are clearly needed.
Test Verification and Validation for Molecular Diagnostic Assays
Authors: Halling Kevin C , Schrijver Iris , Persons Diane L
Published: December 2011

With our ever-increasing understanding of the molecular basis of disease, clinical laboratories are implementing a variety of molecular diagnostic tests to aid in the diagnosis of hereditary disorders, detection and monitoring of cancer, determination of prognosis and guidance for cancer therapy, and detection and monitoring of infectious diseases. Before introducing any new test into the clinical laboratory, the performance characteristics of the assay must be “verified,” if it is a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved or FDA-cleared test, or “validated,” if it is a laboratory-developed test. Although guidelines exist for how validation and verification studies may be addressed for molecular assays, the specific details of the approach used by individual laboratories is rarely published. Many laboratories, especially those introducing new types of molecular assays, would welcome additional guidance, especially in the form of specific examples, on the process of preparing a new molecular assay for clinical use.
Vitamin A, Nutrition, and Health Values of Algae: Spirulina, Chlorella, and Dunaliella
Authors: Tang Guangwen , Suter Paolo M.
Published: January 2012

Spirulina, chlorella, and dunalliella are unicellular algae that are commercially produced worldwide. These algae are concentrated sources of carotenoids (especially provitamin A carotenoids) and other nutrients, such as vitamin B12. Their health benefits as a complementary dietary source for macro and micro nutrients have been studied and confirmed in various populations. The safety of human consuming these algae and products derived from these algae by humans has been widely studied. It is generally concluded that these algae and its products are safe if cultivated properly in a non-contaminated environment, and if consumed in moderation.
Nutritional Genomic: A Multi-Directional Approach to Address Complex Diseases with Multi-Functional Nutrition
Authors: Marta González-Castejón  , Arantxa Rodriguez-Casado Madrid
Published: January 2012

Nutritional genomics describes the biological interactions between genes and diet, their effects on the metabolism, and susceptibility to develop diseases. This approach covers both nutrigenomics that explores the effects of nutrients on the genome; and nutrigenetics that explores the effects of genetic polymorphisms on diet/disease interactions. These interactions vary because individuals have unique combinations of common genetic polymorphisms that are differentially affected by diet. Diseases causality is associated to certain genetic polymorphisms providing predictive biomarkers for diagnostic accuracy. Specific nutrient can modify the expression of genes through the interaction with receptors that activate the transcription of target genes and affect signal pathways. Nutritional genomics is aimed to prevent onset of diseases and maintain human health, identify individuals who are responders and can benefit from specific dietary interventions, and identify how genetic variation affects human nutritional requirements. Nutritional genomics has many potential therapeutic and preventive applications: in individuals with a genetic predisposition to complex diseases including cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders; in those already suffering from these diseases; and in those with memory impairment during aging. This review describes nutritional facts linked to genomic aspects to manage multigenic diseases. It presents some notable example of nutrients with proven modulating gene activity, and the role of nutrition associated with nutritional genomics. Hereafter we briefly review the health-promoting properties of two well-known edible plants, i.e. dandelion and artichoke whose presence in the diet could simultaneously exert positive influence on molecular genomic mechanisms related to risk factors for chronic diseases.
Genus Allium: The Potential Nutritive and Therapeutic Source
Authors: Ghazala H. Rizwani  , Huma Shareef
Published: January 2012

The two Allium species, Onion (Allium cepa L.) and garlic (Allium sativum L.) are the most edible and oldest cultivated plants. These two species have not only beneficial effects against disease also they have nutritive potential. They are very rich sources of several phytonutrients, electrolytes, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins and documented to have a significant identical pharmacological characteristic including hypocholestremic, hypotensive, hypoglycecmic, antithrombotic and anti allergic as well as wide range of biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal and antioxidants. This review article will scan the nature with understanding, thinking, realizing and utilization of these two herbs for their therapeutic source in adding together their nutritive potential. In this review we focused on the nutritional attributes along with their curative potential of species of Allium genus (onion and garlic) belonging to the family Alliaceae.
Dietary Calcium Intake Assessment by Short Food Frequency Questionniare in Thais Adults Living in Chiang Mai, Thailand
Authors: Chuleegone Sornsuvit  , Pennapa Saowapichart  , Suchavadee Meechai  , Apiradee Longlaloeng
Published: January 2012

The aims of this study were to develop and validate the short food frequency questionnaire (sFFQ) to assess calcium intake from food in Thais person for use in clinical practice or community pharmacy.
Data collection was performed during November 2009 to January 2010. The sFFQ consisted of 33 item of food. The frequency of food intake in sFFQ food list was interviewed by investigator. Seven day after subject were interviewed by sFFQ, subjects were asked to fill out the Three Day Dietary Record (3DR) for 3 day. Daily calcium intake assessed by both methods was calculated by using INMUCAL software, which was developed by the Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University.
The 131 subjects who completed sFFQ and 3DR had mean age of 24.4 years, 71.3% were female. The mean daily calcium intake assessed by sFFQ and 3DR were 692.0 + 524.9 mg and 477.4 + 261.9 mg, respectively. The mean daily calcium intakes assessed by sFFQ were significantly higher than 3DR (p < 0.05). The Spearman’s correlation coefficient between calcium intakes assessed by the two methods was 0.18 (p <0.05).
In conclusion, the newly developed sFFQ was a suitable tool for the determination of calcium intakes in Thais adults. The next step in assessing the validity of this sFFQ will be its use in clinical setting such as community pharmacy or out-patient clinic.
Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, Membrane Stabilizing and Antimicrobial Activities of Bark and Seed of Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr.: A Medicinal Plant from Chittagong Hill Tracts
Authors: Fahima Aktar  , Md. Ruhul  , Sk. Omar Faruque  , Farhana Rumi  , Mohiuddin Abdul  , Mohammad A. Rashid
Published: January 2012

The methanolic crude extract of the bark and seed of Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr. and its different organic soluble partitionates were screened for antioxidant, cytotoxic, membrane stabilizing and antimicrobial activities. The crude extract and carbon tetrachloride and aqueous soluble fractionsof both bark and seed showed higher level of total phenolic content (TPC, 245.59, 240.22, 240.03 & 117.0 mg of GAE/gm of dried extract). In the DPPH assay, the crude extract of bark and its chloroform and aqueous soluble fractions demonstrated strong antioxidant property with the IC50 of 3.24, 1.55 and 3.6 μg/ml, respectively whereas all the fractions of seed extract revealed mild antioxidant activity. The petroleum ether soluble fraction of both seed and bark exhibited significant cytotoxicity (LC50 = 1.54 & 5.4 μg/ml) which confers the presence of bioactive metabolites in this plant. On the other hand, the crude extract of seed and petroleum ether soluble fraction of bark inhibited the hemolysis of RBC of rat’s blood by 78.89 and 57.43%, respectively as compared to 84.44% exerted by acetyl salicylic acid (0.10 mg/ml). In antimicrobial screening, the carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction of bark showed significant antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (zone of inhibition = 17.0 mm) with MIC and MBC values of 7.81 μg/ml and 125 μg/ml, respectively
In Situ Characterization of Lifetime and Morphology in Operating Bulk Heterojunction Organic Photovoltaic Devices by Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Leever Benjamin J. , Bailey Christopher A. , Marks Tobin J. , Hersam Mark C. , Durstock Michael F.
Published: December 2011

Time‐dependent charge transport in operating poly(3‐hexylthiophene):[6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic (OPV) devices has been characterized with impedance spectroscopy. Devices with varied composition and morphology were measured over a range of illumination intensities ranging from dark conditions to 1 sun and applied bias voltages ranging from 0.0 V to 0.75 V. Using an equivalent circuit model, materials properties such as dielectric constant and conductivity were determined and found to be in agreement with values measured by other methods. Average carrier lifetimes were also extracted from the model and found to correlate with measured power conversion efficiencies. At the short circuit condition and ∼1 sun illumination, the average electron lifetime was found to vary from 7.8 to 22 μs for devices with power conversion efficiencies ranging from 2.0 to 2.5%. These results suggest that impedance spectroscopy is an effective tool for predicting how processing parameters can impact device performance in organic bulk heterojunction photovoltaic devices.
Multivariate carbon and nitrogen stable isotope model for the reconstruction of prehistoric human diet
Authors: Froehle A.W. , Kellner C.M. , Schoeninger M.J.
Published: December 2011

Using a sample of published archaeological data, we expand on an earlier bivariate carbon model for diet reconstruction by adding bone collagen nitrogen stable isotope values (δ15N), which provide information on trophic level and consumption of terrestrial vs. marine protein. The bivariate carbon model (δ13Capatite vs. δ13Ccollagen) provides detailed information on the isotopic signatures of whole diet and dietary protein, but is limited in its ability to distinguish between C4 and marine protein. Here, using cluster analysis and discriminant function analysis, we generate a multivariate diet reconstruction model that incorporates δ13Capatite, δ13Ccollagen, and δ15N holistically. Inclusion of the δ15N data proves useful in resolving protein‐related limitations of the bivariate carbon model, and splits the sample into five distinct dietary clusters. Two significant discriminant functions account for 98.8% of the sample variance, providing a multivariate model for diet reconstruction. Both carbon variables dominate the first function, while δ15N most strongly influences the second. Independent support for the functions' ability to accurately classify individuals according to diet comes from a small sample of experimental rats, which cluster as expected from their diets. The new model also provides a statistical basis for distinguishing between food sources with similar isotopic signatures, as in a previously analyzed archaeological population from Saipan (see Ambrose et al.: AJPA 104(1997) 343‐361). Our model suggests that the Saipan islanders' 13C‐enriched signal derives mainly from sugarcane, not seaweed. Further development and application of this model can similarly improve dietary reconstructions in archaeological, paleontological, and primatological contexts. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nucleic Acid and Peptide Aptamers: Fundamentals and Bioanalytical Aspects
Authors: Mascini Marco , Palchetti Ilaria , Tombelli Sara
Published: December 2011

In recent years new nucleic acid and protein‐based combinatorial molecules have attracted the attention of researchers working in various areas of science, ranging from medicine to analytical chemistry. These molecules, called aptamers, have been proposed as alternatives to antibodies in many different applications. The aim of this Review is to illustrate the peculiarities of these combinatorial molecules which have initially been explored for their importance in molecular medicine, but have enormous potential in other biotechnological fields historically dominated by antibodies, such as bioassays. A description of these molecules is given, and the methods for their selection and production are also summarized. Moreover, critical aspects related to these molecules are discussed.
Synthesis and characterization of activated carbon‐platinum composites and effect on hydrogen storage rate
Authors: Chuang, Haw‐Yeu , Tseng, Huan‐Hsiung , Chung Tsui‐Yun , Yu Ming‐Sheng
Published: December 2011

A novel, facile and low temperature process for activated carbon‐platinum (AC‐Pt) composites has been developed in the absence of additive reducing agents. By varying the pH value and heating approach, the size and amounts of loading Pt nanoparticles could be tuned. According to the results of nitrogen adsorption analysis, small angle X‐ray scattering profiles, X‐ray diffractometer spectrometer patterns, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and field emission scanning electron microscope images, it was indicated that lower pH value and higher reaction temperature would conduce to larger Pt nanoparticles as well as greater amounts. Attributing to the results of nitrogen adsorption analysis, the impregnating condition of Pt nanocrystals also obviously influenced the specific surface area and the pore structure of AC‐Pt composites, which evidently resulted in dissimilar hydrogen adsorption behavior. In this research, the hydrogen storage rate was measured using high pressure thermo‐gravimetric analyzer under flow condition. It was discovered that small Pt nanoparticles uniformly distributed in pores might aid gas diffusion of hydrogen molecules and surface diffusion of atomic hydrogen in pores of AC via the so‐called hydrogen spillover phenomenon and enhance higher adsorption rate, even at lower Pt contents. © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved car‐following model for railway traffic
Authors: Li KePing , Gao ZiYou
Published: December 2011

In this paper, we propose an improved traffic model for simulating train movement in railway traffic. The proposed model is based on optimal velocity car‐following model. In order to test the proposed model, we use it to simulate the train movement with fixed‐block system. In simulations, we analyze and discuss the space–time diagram of railway traffic flow and the trajectories of train movement. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed model can be successfully used for simulating the train movement in railway traffic. From the space–time diagram, we find some complex phenomena of train flow, which are observed in real railway traffic, such as train delays. By analyzing the trajectories of train movement, some dynamic characteristics of trains can be reproduced. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Practical approach for travel time estimation from point traffic detector data
Authors: Shen Luou , Hadi Mohammed
Published: December 2011

Accurate estimation of travel time is critical to the success of advanced traffic management systems and advanced traveler information systems. Travel time estimation also provides basic data support for travel time reliability research, which is being recognized as an important performance measure of the transportation system. This paper investigates a number of methods to address the three major issues associated with travel time estimation from point traffic detector data: data filling for missing or error data, speed transformation from time‐mean speed to space‐mean speed, and travel time estimation that converts the speeds recorded at detector locations to travel time along the highway segment. The case study results show that the spatial and temporal interpolation of missing data and the transformation to space‐mean speed improve the accuracy of the estimates of travel time. The results also indicate that the piecewise constant‐acceleration‐based method developed in this study and the average speed method produce better results than the other three methods proposed in previous studies. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.