bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards sub-100-nm X-ray microscopy for tomographic applications
Authors: Bruyndonckx P. , Sasov A. , Pauwels B.
Published: May 2010

We have demonstrated that structures down to 150 nm can be visualized in X-ray projection images using nanofocus X-ray sources. Due to their unlimited depth of focus, they do not possess a limit on the specimen size. This is essential for three-dimensional tomographic imaging of samples with a diameter larger than a few microns. Further simulation studies have shown that optimization of the detector response curve and switching from a reflective X-ray target to a transmission target should allow us to reach sub-100-nm resolutions.
Characterization of aging behavior of precipitates and dislocations in copper-based alloys
Authors: Sato Shigeo , Takahashi Yohei , Wagatsuma Kazuaki , Suzuki Shigeru
Published: May 2010

The growth of precipitates in a deformed Cu–Ni–Si alloy with an aging treatment and the rearrangement of dislocations were investigated using small-angle X-ray scattering method and XRD line-profile analysis. The small-angle X-ray scattering method was used for characterizing the growth behavior of the precipitates. The results showed that the precipitates grew gradually to a few nanometers in radius when aged under the condition that the alloy exhibited a maximum of the hardness due to precipitation hardening. The growth rate rose from the onset of the overaging, where the hardness started to decrease. The line-profile analysis of copper-based alloy diffraction peaks using modified Williamson–Hall and modified Warren–Averbach procedures yielded a variation in the dislocation densities of the alloy as a function of the aging time. The dislocation density of the alloy before the aging treatment was estimated to be 1.7×1015 m−2 and its high value was held up to the peak-aging time. With the onset of the overaging, however, the dislocation density distinctly decreased by about 1 order of magnitude indicating that a large amount of the dislocations rearranged to release the alloy from the high dislocation-density state. The results suggest that the massive rearrangement of dislocations was accompanied with coarsening of the precipitates.
On the Singular Spectrum for Adiabatic Quasiperiodic Schrödinger Operators
Authors: Marx Magali , Najar Hatem
Published: May 2010

We study spectral properties of a family of quasiperiodic Schrödinger operators on the real line in the adiabatic limit. We assume that the adiabatic iso‐energetic curve has a real branch that is extended along the momentum direction. In the energy intervals where this happens, we obtain an asymptotic formula for the Lyapunov exponent and show that the spectrum is purely singular. This result was conjectured and proved in a particular case by Fedotov and Klopp (2005).
Characteristics of Tetanic Force Produced by the Sternomastoid Muscle of the Rat
Authors: Sobotka Stanislaw , Mu Liancai
Published: May 2010

The sternomastoid (SM) muscle plays an important role in supporting breathing. It also has unique anatomical advantages that allow its wide use in head and neck tissue reconstruction and muscle reinnervation. However, little is known about its contractile properties. The experiments were run on rats and designed to determine in vivo the relationship between muscle force (active muscle contraction to electrical stimulation) with passive tension (passive force changing muscle length) and two parameters (intensity and frequency) of electrical stimulation. The threshold current for initiating noticeable muscle contraction was 0.03 mA. Maximal muscle force (0.94 N) was produced by using moderate muscle length/tension (28 mm/0.08 N), 0.2 mA stimulation current, and 150 Hz stimulation frequency. These data are important not only to better understand the contractile properties of the rat SM muscle, but also to provide normative values which are critical to reliably assess the extent of functional recovery following muscle reinnervation.
Quantum Damped Mechanical Oscillator
Authors: Ikot Akpan N. , Akpabio Louis E. , Akpan Ita O. , Umo Michael I. , Ituen Eno E.
Published: May 2010

The exact solutions of the Schrödinger equation for quantum damped oscillator with modified Caldirola-Kanai Hamiltonian are evaluated. We also investigate the cases of under-, over-, and critical damping.
The New Evolution for SIA Rotorcraft UAV Project
Authors: Qi Juntong , Song Dalei , Dai Lei , Han Jianda , Wang Yuechao
Published: May 2010

This paper describes recent research on the design, implement, and testing of a new small-scaled rotorcraft Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (RUAV) system—ServoHeli-40. A turbine-powered UAV weighted less than 15 kg was designed, and its major components were tested at the Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Shenyang, China. The aircraft was designed to reach a top speed of more than 20 mps, flying a distance of more than 10 kilometers, and it is going to be used as a test-bed for experimentally evaluating advanced control methodologies dedicated on improving the maneuverability, reliability, as well as autonomy of RUAV. Sensors and controller are all onboard. The full system has been tested successfully in the autonomous mode using the multichannel active modeling controller. The results show that in a real windy environment the rotorcraft UAV can follow the trajectory which was assigned by the ground control station exactly, and the new control method is obviously more effective than the one in the past year's research.
Augmentation of Radiation Response by Motesanib, a Multikinase Inhibitor that Targets Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors
Authors: Kruser Tim J. , Wheeler Deric L. , Armstrong Eric A. , Iida Mari , Kozak Kevin R. , van der Kogel Albert J. , Bussink Johan , Coxon Angela , Polverino Anthony , Harari Paul M.
Published: May 2010

Background: Motesanib is a potent inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR) 1, 2, and 3, platelet-derived growth factor receptor, and Kit receptors. In this report we examine the interaction between motesanib and radiation in vitro and in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) xenograft models.

Experimental Design: In vitro assays were done to assess the impact of motesanib on VEGFR2 signaling pathways in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). HNSCC lines grown as tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice were utilized to assess the in vivo activity of motesanib alone and in combination with radiation.

Results: Motesanib inhibited VEGF-stimulated HUVEC proliferation in vitro, as well as VEGFR2 kinase activity. Additionally, motesanib and fractionated radiation showed additive inhibitory effects on HUVEC proliferation. In vivo combination therapy with motesanib and radiation showed increased response compared with drug or radiation alone in UM-SCC1 (P < 0.002) and SCC-1483 xenografts (P = 0.001); however, the combination was not significantly more efficacious than radiation alone in UM-SCC6 xenografts. Xenografts treated with motesanib showed a reduction of vessel penetration into tumor parenchyma, compared with control tumors. Furthermore, triple immunohistochemical staining for vasculature, proliferation, and hypoxia showed well-defined spatial relationships among these parameters in HNSCC xenografts. Motesanib significantly enhanced intratumoral hypoxia in the presence and absence of fractionated radiation.

Conclusions: These studies identify a favorable interaction when combining radiation and motesanib in HNSCC models. The data presented suggest that motesanib reduces blood vessel penetration into tumors and thereby increases intratumoral hypoxia. These findings suggest that clinical investigations examining combinations of radiation and motesanib are warranted in HNSCC. Clin Cancer Res; 16(14); 3639–47. ©2010 AACR.
A Review of the Benefits of Nutrient Supplements during Pregnancy: From Iron-Folic-Acid to Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids to Probiotics
Authors: Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: May 2010

This review summarizes current knowledge on the effectiveness of prenatal nutrient supplements ranging from iron-folic-acid (IFA), which is standard of care in many parts of the world, to more novel ones such as ω–3 fatty acids and probiotics in improving maternal and child health outcomes. Randomized controlled trials have shown that prenatal IFA supplements reduce the risk of anemia and iron deficiency during pregnancy and at term, but the evidence of risk reductions in low birth weight (LBW) and preterm delivery (PTD) is weak. Recent studies, however, suggest that prenatal IFA supplements may reduce child mortality. On the other hand, there is convincing evidence that multiple micronutrient supplements containing 1–2 recommended daily allowances of several vitamins and minerals are safe and reduce the risk of LBW by 19 and 17% when compared to a placebo or routine IFA. Prenatal calcium supplements (>1 g/day) have also been shown to significantly reduce the risk of preeclampsia and maternal death or serious morbidity by 52 and 20%, respectively. Zinc and fish oil supplements containing ω–3 fatty acids may also increase gestational age and reduce the risk of PTD, but not of LBW, in selected populations. There is, however, limited evidence to support the provision of supplements containing only vitamin A, D or antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. Although the protective effect of folic acid during the periconceptual period in reducing neural tube defects is well established, very few or no intervention trials have evaluated the independent effects of specific B vitamins (vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid), docosahexanoic acid and probiotics during pregnancy. The effects of prenatal iodine supplements in areas with mild to moderate iodine deficiency have not been examined either. Some of these nutrients may not affect outcomes such as PTD or LBW but may have long-term benefits for offspring health and development.
Contribution of 30 Biomarkers to 10-Year Cardiovascular Risk Estimation in 2 Population Cohorts
Authors: Blankenberg Stefan , Zeller Tanja , Saarela Olli , Havulinna Aki S. , Kee Frank , Tunstall-Pedoe Hugh , Kuulasmaa Kari , Yarnell John , Schnabel Renate B. , Wild Philipp S. , Münzel Thomas F. , Lackner Karl J. , Tiret Laurence , Evans Alun , Salomaa Veikko
Published: May 2010

Background—

Cardiovascular risk estimation by novel biomarkers needs assessment in disease-free population cohorts, followed up for incident cardiovascular events, assaying the serum and plasma archived at baseline. We report results from 2 cohorts in such a continuing study.

Methods and Results—

Thirty novel biomarkers from different pathophysiological pathways were evaluated in 7915 men and women of the FINRISK97 population cohort with 538 incident cardiovascular events at 10 years (fatal or nonfatal coronary or stroke events), from which a biomarker score was developed and then validated in the 2551 men of the Belfast Prospective Epidemiological Study of Myocardial Infarction (PRIME) cohort (260 events). No single biomarker consistently improved risk estimation in FINRISK97 men and FINRISK97 women and the Belfast PRIME Men cohort after allowing for confounding factors; however, the strongest associations (with hazard ratio per SD in FINRISK97 men) were found for N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (1.23), C-reactive protein (1.23), B-type natriuretic peptide (1.19), and sensitive troponin I (1.18). A biomarker score was developed from the FINRISK97 cohort with the use of regression coefficients and lasso methods, with selection of troponin I, C-reactive protein, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide. Adding this score to a conventional risk factor model in the Belfast PRIME Men cohort validated it by improved c-statistics (
P
=0.004) and integrated discrimination (
P
<0.0001) and led to significant reclassification of individuals into risk categories (
P
=0.0008).

Conclusions—

The addition of a biomarker score including N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, C-reactive protein, and sensitive troponin I to a conventional risk model improved 10-year risk estimation for cardiovascular events in 2 middle-aged European populations. Further validation is needed in other populations and age groups.
Complications Associated With Revision of Sprint Fidelis Leads
Authors: Parkash Ratika , Crystal Eugene , Bashir Jamil , Simpson Christopher , Birnie David , Sterns Laurence , Exner Derek , Thibault Bernard , Connors Sean , Healey Jeffrey S. , Champagne Jean , Cameron Doug , Mangat Iqwal , Verma Atul , Wolfe Kevin , Essebag Vidal , Kus Teresa , Ayala-Paredes Felix , Davies Ted , Sanatani Shubhayan , Gow Robert , Coutu Benoit , Sivakumaran Soori , Stephenson Elizabeth , Krahn Andrew
Published: May 2010

Background—

It has been observed that replacement of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator generator in response to a device advisory may be associated with a substantial rate of complications, including death. The risk of lead revision in response to a lead advisory has not been determined previously.

Methods and Results—

Twenty-five implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation and follow-up centers from the Canadian Heart Rhythm Society Device Advisory Committee were surveyed to assess complication rates as a result of lead revisions due to the Sprint Fidelis advisory issued in October 2007. As of June 1, 2009, there had been 310 lead failures found in 6237 Sprint Fidelis leads in Canada (4.97%) over a follow-up of 40 months. There were 469 leads to be revised, 66% for confirmed fracture. Of the patients who underwent revision, 95% had a new lead inserted, whereas 4% had a pace/sense lead added. The lead was removed in 248 cases (53%), by simple traction in 61% and by laser lead extraction in 33%. Complications were encountered in 14.5% of the lead revisions; 7.25% of these were major, whereas 7.25% were minor. There were 2 deaths (0.43%). The overall risk of complications (19.8%) was greater in those who underwent lead removal at the time of revision than in those whose leads were abandoned (8.6%;
P
=0.0008).

Conclusions—

The overall rate of major complications that arose from lead revision due to the Sprint Fidelis advisory was significant. This must be taken into account when lead revision is planned in those patients who have not yet demonstrated an abnormality in lead performance.
Encounter Frequency and Blood Pressure in Hypertensive Patients With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Turchin Alexander , Goldberg Saveli I. , Shubina Maria , Einbinder Jonathan S. , Conlin Paul R.
Published: May 2010

The relationship between encounter frequency (average number of provider-patient encounters over a period of time) and blood pressure for hypertensive patients is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that shorter encounter intervals are associated with faster blood pressure normalization. We performed a retrospective cohort study of 5042 hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus treated at primary care practices affiliated with 2 academic hospitals between 2000 and 2005. Distinct periods of continuously elevated blood pressure (≥130/85 mm Hg) were studied. We evaluated the association of the average encounter interval with time to blood pressure normalization and rate of blood pressure decrease. Blood pressure of the patients with the average interval between encounters ≤1 month normalized after a median of 1.5 months at the rate of 28.7 mm Hg/month compared with 12.2 months at 2.6 mm Hg/month for the encounter interval >1 month (
P
<0.0001 for all). Median time to blood pressure normalization was 0.7 versus 1.9 months for the average encounter interval ≤2 weeks versus between 2 weeks and 1 month, respectively (
P
<0.0001). In proportional hazards analysis adjusted for patient demographics, initial blood pressure, and treatment intensification rate, a 1 month increase in the average encounter interval was associated with a hazard ratio of 0.764 for blood pressure normalization (
P
<0.0001). Shorter encounter intervals are associated with faster decrease in blood pressure and earlier blood pressure normalization. Greatest benefits were observed at encounter intervals (≤2 weeks) shorter than what is currently recommended.
Auto-Titrating Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for Patients With Acute Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Bravata Dawn M. , Concato John , Fried Terri , Ranjbar Noshene , Sadarangani Tanesh , McClain Vincent , Struve Frederick , Zygmunt Lawrence , Knight Herbert J. , Lo Albert , Richerson George B. , Gorman Mark , Williams Linda S. , Brass Lawrence M. , Agostini Joseph , Mohsenin Vahid , Roux Francoise , Yaggi H. Klar
Published: May 2010

Background and Purpose—

Transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients are at risk of recurrent vascular events. The primary objectives were to evaluate among TIA patients the prevalence of sleep apnea and among patients with sleep apnea auto-titrating continuous positive airway pressure (auto-CPAP) adherence. The secondary objective was to describe among TIA patients with sleep apnea the recurrent vascular event rate by auto-CPAP use category.

Methods—

All intervention patients received auto-CPAP for 2 nights, but only intervention patients with evidence of sleep apnea received auto-CPAP for the remainder of the 90-day period. Intervention patients received polysomnography at 90 days after TIA. Control patients received polysomnography at baseline and at 90 days. Acceptable auto-CPAP adherence was defined as ≥4 hours per night for ≥75% of nights. Vascular events included recurrent TIA, stroke, hospitalization for congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, or death.

Results—

We enrolled 70 acute TIA patients: 45 intervention and 25 control. The majority of patients had sleep apnea: 57% at baseline and 59% at 90 days. Among the 30 intervention patients with airflow obstruction, 12 (40%) had acceptable auto-CPAP adherence, 18 (60%) had some use, and none had no use. Three intervention patients (12%) had recurrent events compared with 1 (2%;
P
=0.13) control patient. The vascular event rate was highest among sleep apnea patients with no CPAP use: none, 16%; some, 5%; acceptable adherence 0% (
P
=0.08).

Conclusions—

Sleep apnea is common among acute TIA patients. It appears feasible to provide auto-CPAP in the acute TIA period. Larger studies should evaluate whether a strategy of diagnosing and treating sleep apnea can reduce recurrent vascular events after TIA.
Watershed Infarcts in Transient Ischemic Attack/Minor Stroke With ≥50% Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Moustafa Ramez R. , Izquierdo-Garcia David , Jones P. Simon , Graves Martin J. , Fryer Tim D. , Gillard Jonathan H. , Warburton Elizabeth A. , Baron Jean-Claude
Published: May 2010

Background and Purpose—

Watershed ischemia is a significant cause of stroke in severe carotid disease, but its pathophysiology is unsettled. Although hemodynamic compromise has long been regarded as the main mechanism—particularly with deep watershed infarction—there is some contradictory evidence from clinical and pathological studies for a role of microembolism, thought to result from plaque inflammation. However, no study so far has directly addressed these conflicting scenarios.

Methods—

In 16 consecutive patients with recent transient ischemic attack/minor stroke and ipsilateral 50% to 99% carotid stenosis, we prospectively obtained (1) plaque inflammation mapping with
18
F fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography; (2) brain MRI and perfusion MR; and (3) transcranial Doppler detection of microembolic signals (MES). Patients were excluded if on dual antiplatelets or with a potential cardiac source of emboli or contralateral MES.

Results—

We found the expected significant relationship between (1) degree of stenosis and severity of distal hemodynamic impairment in the watershed areas; and (2) degree of in vivo plaque inflammation and rate of MES/hr. Deep watershed infarcts were present in 8 patients and MES in 8 (3 with both). There was no systematic association between the presence of deep watershed infarcts and either hemodynamic impairment or MES, but deep watershed infarcts were present only when either hemodynamic impairment or MES was present (
P
=0.01).

Conclusion—

This pilot study supports the idea that in symptomatic carotid disease, deep watershed infarcts result either from hemodynamic impairment secondary to severe lumen stenosis or from microembolism secondary to plaque inflammation. There was no direct evidence that both mechanisms act in synergy.
Effects of Aerosol Solubility and Regeneration on Warm-Phase Orographic Clouds and Precipitation Simulated by a Detailed Bin Microphysical Scheme
Authors: Xue Lulin , Teller Amit , Rasmussen Roy , Geresdi Istvan , Pan Zaitao
Published: May 2010

This study evaluates the possible impact of aerosol solubility and regeneration on warm-phase orographic clouds and precipitation. The sensitivity evaluation is performed by simulating cloud formation over two identical 2D idealized mountains using a detailed bin microphysical scheme implemented into the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) version 3. The dynamics, thermodynamics, topography, and microphysical pathways were designed to produce precipitating clouds in a linear hydrostatic mountain wave regime. The cloud over the second mountain is affected by regenerated aerosols advected from the cloud over the first mountain. Effects of aerosol solubility and regeneration were investigated with surface relative humidity of 95% and 85% for both clean and polluted background aerosol concentrations.

Among the findings are the following: 1) The total number of cloud drops decreases as the aerosol solubility decreases, and the impacts of aerosol solubility on cloud drops and precipitation are more significant in polluted clouds than in clean clouds. 2) Aerosol regeneration increases cloud drops and reduces the precipitation by 2%–80% in clouds over the second mountain. Regenerated aerosol particles replenish one-third to two-thirds of the missing particles when regeneration is not considered. 3) Different size distributions of regenerated aerosol particles have negligible effect on clouds and precipitation except for polluted clouds with high aerosol solubility. 4) When the solubility of initial aerosol particles decreases with an increasing size of aerosol particles, the modified solubility of regenerated aerosol particles increases precipitation over the second mountain.
Evaluation of the NASA GISS Single-Column Model Simulated Clouds Using Combined Surface and Satellite Observations
Authors: Kennedy Aaron D. , Dong Xiquan , Xi Baike , Minnis Patrick , Del Genio Anthony D. , Wolf Audrey B. , Khaiyer Mandana M.
Published: May 2010

Three years of surface and Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) data from the Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) Southern Great Plains (SGP) site are used to evaluate the NASA GISS Single Column Model (SCM) simulated clouds from January 1999 to December 2001. The GOES-derived total cloud fractions for both 0.5° and 2.5° grid boxes are in excellent agreement with surface observations, suggesting that ARM point observations can represent large areal observations. Low (<2 km), middle (2–6 km), and high (>6 km) levels of cloud fractions, however, have negative biases as compared to the ARM results due to multilayer cloud scenes that can either mask lower cloud layers or cause misidentifications of cloud tops. Compared to the ARM observations, the SCM simulated most midlevel clouds, overestimated low clouds (4%), and underestimated total and high clouds by 7% and 15%, respectively. To examine the dependence of the modeled high and low clouds on the large-scale synoptic patterns, variables such as relative humidity (RH) and vertical pressure velocity (omega) from North American Regional Reanalysis (NARR) data are included. The successfully modeled and missed high clouds are primarily associated with a trough and ridge upstream of the ARM SGP, respectively. The PDFs of observed high and low occurrence as a function of RH reveal that high clouds have a Gaussian-like distribution with mode RH values of ∼40%–50%, whereas low clouds have a gammalike distribution with the highest cloud probability occurring at RH ∼75%–85%. The PDFs of modeled low clouds are similar to those observed; however, for high clouds the PDFs are shifted toward higher values of RH. This results in a negative bias for the modeled high clouds because many of the observed clouds occur at RH values below the SCM-specified stratiform parameterization threshold RH of 60%. Despite many similarities between PDFs derived from the NARR and ARM forcing datasets for RH and omega, differences do exist. This warrants further investigation of the forcing and reanalysis datasets.
A Demonstration of Long-Term Memory and Climate Predictability
Authors: Zhu Xiuhua , Fraedrich Klaus , Liu Zhengyu , Blender Richard
Published: May 2010

Climate forecast skills are evaluated for surface temperature time series at grid points of a millennium control simulation from a state-of-the-art global circulation model [ECHAM5–Max Planck Institute Ocean Model (MPI-OM)]. First, climate predictability is diagnosed in terms of potentially predictable variance fractions and the fluctuation power-law exponent (using detrended fluctuation analysis). Long-term memory (LTM) with a fluctuation exponent (or Hurst exponent) close to 0.9 occurs mainly in high-latitude oceans, which are also characterized by high potential predictability. Next, explicit prediction experiments for various time steps are conducted on a gridpoint basis using an autocorrelation predictor. In regions with LTM, prediction skills are beyond that expected from red noise persistence—exceptions occur in some areas in the southern oceans and over the Northern Hemisphere continents. Extending the predictability analysis to the fully forced simulation shows a large improvement in prediction skills.
Mechanisms of Meridional Teleconnection Observed between a Summer Monsoon System and a Subtropical Anticyclone. Part I: The Pacific–Japan Pattern
Authors: Kosaka Yu , Nakamura Hisashi
Published: May 2010

Summertime atmospheric circulation over the midlatitude western North Pacific (WNP) is influenced by anomalous convective activity near the Philippines. This meridional teleconnection, observed in monthly anomalies and known as the Pacific–Japan (PJ) pattern, is characterized by zonally elongated cyclonic and anticyclonic anomalies around the enhanced convection center and to its northeast, respectively, in the lower troposphere, with an apparent poleward phase tilt with height. The authors’ idealized two-layer linear model, whose basic state consists of a zonal subtropical jet and a pair of a monsoon system and a subtropical anticyclone, can simulate a PJ-like response against diabatic heating located between the pair. Each of the observed and simulated patterns can gain energy through barotropic and baroclinic conversions from the zonally varying baroclinic mean flow, in an efficiency comparable with that of energy generation due to the anomalous diabatic heating, indicating a characteristic of the pattern as a dry dynamical mode. In fact, the conversion efficiency is sensitive to the location of the anomaly pattern relative to the climatological-mean flow. Furthermore, the second-least damped mode identified in the idealized model bears certain resemblance with the observed PJ pattern, indicating its modal characteristics as well as a critical importance of these features in the mean field for the pattern. In addition to the PJ pattern, another meridional teleconnection pattern with high efficiency for its energy conversion is identified observationally in association with anomalous convection near the Bonin Islands.

The anomalous circulation of the PJ pattern, in turn, can intensify the anomalous convective activity near the Philippines through enhancing evaporation and moisture convergence and dynamically inducing anomalous ascent. It is thus hypothesized that the PJ pattern can be regarded as a moist dynamical mode that sustains itself both via dry energy conversion and interaction with moist processes.
Implementation of a Nonlinear Subfilter Turbulence Stress Model for Large-Eddy Simulation in the Advanced Research WRF Model
Authors: Mirocha J. D. , Lundquist J. K. , Kosović B.
Published: May 2010

Two formulations of a nonlinear turbulence subfilter-scale (SFS) stress model were implemented into the Advanced Research Weather Research and Forecasting model (ARW-WRF) version 3.0 for improved large-eddy simulation performance. The new models were evaluated against the WRF model’s standard Smagorinsky and 1.5-order turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) linear eddy-viscosity SFS stress models in simulations of geostrophically forced, neutral boundary layer flow over both flat terrain and a shallow, symmetric transverse ridge. Comparisons of simulation results with similarity profiles indicate that the nonlinear models significantly improve agreement with the expected profiles near the surface, reducing the overprediction of near-surface stress characteristic of linear eddy-viscosity models with no near-wall damping. Comparisons of simulations conducted using different mesh sizes indicate that the nonlinear model simulations at coarser resolutions agree more closely with the higher-resolution results than corresponding lower-resolution simulations using the standard WRF SFS stress models. The nonlinear models produced flows featuring a broader range of eddy sizes, with less spectral power at lower frequencies and more spectral power at higher frequencies. In simulated flow over the transverse ridge, distributions of flow separation and reversal near the surface simulated at higher resolution were likewise better depicted in coarser-resolution simulations using the nonlinear models.
Mathematical Modeling of Tensile Properties of Fancy Loop Yarns. Theoretical: Part I
Authors: Grabowska Katarzyna Ewa
Published: May 2010

To date, the structure and properties of loop fancy yarns with an extended structure have not been sufficiently explored. The aim of this paper is to develop a mathematical model describing the tensile load converted to one unit of linear density for a given yarn strain of a multiplied loop yarn that is the function of density of staple fiber length distribution, degree of fiber migration, slipping length, basic twist of component yarns, yarn twist, tensions stretching single component yarns and friction forces generated in component yarns. The derived mathematical relationships make it possible to objectively control the usable properties of yarns with extended surfaces.
A New Look at Established Therapies
Authors: Gavin James R. , Peragallo-Dittko Virginia , Rodgers Philip T.
Published: May 2010

Purpose

Current evidence shows early initiation of insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) improves glycemic control, responsiveness to subsequent oral antidiabetic therapies, β-cell function, and possible cardiovascular outcomes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA)/ European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) 2008 algorithm introduces insulin therapy earlier in the treatment of T2DM with prompt intensification to achieve therapeutic goals. Agent selection and insulin regimens are based on patient A1C levels and willingness to monitor blood glucose, use of previous medications, blood glucose patterns, diet, and lifestyle. Practical considerations offered for diabetes educators and clinicians include creating strategies for early initiation of insulin, addressing patients’ psychosocial barriers and quality of life concerns, understanding pharmacokinetic properties of insulin formulations, selecting appropriate therapy and patient-based regimens, and intensifying therapy to achieve glycemic control.

Conclusions

Diabetes education, including intentional curriculum design, for patients with T2DM who are initiating or intensifying insulin therapy, addresses patient barriers to care, reduces the burden of treatment, improves adherence to treatment protocols, and helps optimize clinical outcomes.
Mechanical Properties of the Achilles Tendon Aponeurosis Are Altered in Athletes With Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Child Sally , Bryant Adam L. , Clark Ross A. , Crossley Kay M.
Published: May 2010

Background: Achilles tendinopathy is a considerable problem for active people. The degenerative processes associated with tendinopathy may be associated with changes in the inherent mechanical properties of the musculotendinous unit.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare Achilles tendon–aponeurosis strain between male athletes with and without Achilles tendinopathy.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: Fifteen healthy men (age, 35 ± 9 years; height, 1.78 ± 0.05 m; mass, 79 ± 11 kg) and 14 men with midportion Achilles tendinopathy (age, 40 ± 8 years; height, 1.77 ± 0.06 m; mass, 80 ± 9 kg) who were all running over 20 km per week participated in the study. Each participant was tested in a single session that involved maximal isometric plantar flexion efforts being performed on a calf-raise apparatus while synchronous real-time ultrasonography of the triceps surae aponeurosis was recorded. Achilles tendon–aponeurosis strain (%) was calculated by dividing tendon displacement during plantar flexion by resting tendon length (intrarater reliability: intraclass correlation coefficient = .92).

Results: Participants in the Achilles tendinopathy group (5.2% ± 2.6%) had significantly ( P = .039) higher Achilles tendon–aponeurosis strain compared with the control group (3.4% ± 1.8%). In contrast, there were no significant between-group differences for maximal isometric plantar flexion force.

Conclusion: Achilles tendon–aponeurosis strain is higher in male athletes with tendinopathy than those without. The results of this study provide a rationale for current clinical approaches to management of Achilles tendinopathy, whereby repetitive mechanical loading may impart a positive benefit through reduced compliance of the musculotendinous unit.
Secret spookery still under wraps
Authors: Leigh David
Published: May 2010

The vetting of BBC journalists by MI5 is missing from the agency’s official history. So will the paperback edition rectify the omission?
Proposal for a University-Community-Hospice Partnership to Address Organizational Barriers to Cultural Competence
Authors: Reese Dona J.
Published: May 2010

Models of culturally competent hospice services have been developed, but they are not generally being used. This article describes a participatory action research project which is addressing organizational barriers to cultural competence through a university-community-hospice partnership. The intervention plan is to develop a connection with the African American community, increasing community knowledge, and hospice staff cultural competence through a social work student field placement. It is hoped that, if successful, this model will be replicated to address the problem of African American utilization and access to hospice.
The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus: Institution Building in a Political Fragmented Metropolitan Region
Authors: Lindstrom Bonnie
Published: May 2010

The Mayors Caucus began as a forum to foster cooperation among the municipalities in the Chicago metropolitan region. After its establishment, the Mayors Caucus became a regional stakeholder, representing the mayors in coalitions with the region’s civic organizations, developing a legislative action team to pass legislation in the Illinois General Assembly, and serving as a forum for regional consensus building. This research is a case study of the development of the Mayors Caucus as a new institution established to overcome the region’s extreme government fragmentation and decades of city—suburban hostility.
Principles for a Cultural Psychology of Creativity
Authors: Glăveanu Vlad-Petre
Published: May 2010

This article focuses on a novel theoretical paradigm emerging in the study of human creativity: the cultural-psychological approach. It starts by differentiating between the long past of individualistic accounts of creativity (the lonely genius) and the short history of psychological understandings (the creative individual). The social and the cross-cultural psychology of creativity are both considered, together with their advantages and current limitations. Creativity is generally conceptualized as a process of artifact generation and five broad principles for a cultural psychology of creativity are presented. In clarifying the nature of creativity, a special consideration is given to the relationship between individuals, creativity, and culture. Finally, the role of the community in fostering and assessing creativity is suggested as a more realistic solution to the individual—society debate.
Effects of angiotensin receptor blockade on atrial electrical remodelling and the ‘second factor’ in a goat burst-paced model of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Hall Mark CS , Kirubakaran Senthil , Choudhury Rasheda , Abidin Nik , Peters Nicholas S , Garratt Clifford J
Published: May 2010

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is self-perpetuating, via mechanisms of acute electrical remodelling and ‘second factors’ acting over a longer time course. Renin—angiotensin system (RAS) blockade may inhibit AF self-perpetuation. We evaluated the effects of RAS blockade with candesartan in a burst-paced goat model of lone AF in which both mechanisms are known to operate. Bioactivity of oral candesartan was demonstrated in 10 goats by inhibition of the pressor effect of angiotensin II. The effects of candesartan on electrical remodelling were assessed in 12 placebo and 12 candesartan-treated goats in a 28-day burst pacing protocol. To assess the effects of candesartan on second factors (structural remodelling), 16 goats underwent further 28-day periods of burst pacing (two periods in 16 goats, three periods in eight goats) each separated by periods of sinus rhythm sufficient for electrical remodelling to reverse. There was a progressive rise in angiotensin levels in both groups. Candesartan (0.5 mg/kg/day) achieved a 76% blunting of the pressor effect of angiotensin II and had no effect on electrical remodelling; the half time for fall of atrial effective refractory period (AERP) was 22.3 ± 4.9 h (placebo) and 22.0 ± 3.2 h (candesartan) ( p = ns). Candesartan had no effect on AF stability, which progressively increased over successive 28-day periods (ANOVA p < 0.05). Candesartan had no effect on atrial electrical remodelling or the operation of ‘second factors’ in a goat model of lone AF. These findings suggest that any benefits of RAS blockade in patients with AF are unlikely to be due to direct effects on atrial remodelling.
“Integral to the Plot, and in No Way Gratuitous”? Constructing Creative Freedom in the Liberalization of Canadian Content Regulation
Authors: Heuman Josh
Published: May 2010

This article analyzes proceedings of the Canadian Broadcast Standards Council as a discourse on tensions between creative freedom and social responsibility. While scholarship on censorship emphasizes the productive and constructive dimensions of prohibitive regulation, this article explores the imbrications of a more permissive style of regulation and its targets. The council’s administration of various self-regulatory codes tends to limit the potential overreach of social responsibility provisions. In particular, its reading practices allow remarkable authority to the coherence and integrity of screen realities. Ultimately, this weight on the “realistic” suggests the discursive and institutional complexity of liberalization. Rather than a simple movement from active intervention to passive permission, or a simple recognition of an already-formed creative freedom, the council follows a particular construction of creative freedom— produced in readings that actively exclude specters of regulable irresponsibility, and that resonate provocatively with the “realism” mobilized in producers’ claims to creative status.
Effects of Mn and Ti on microstructure and inclusions in weld metal of high strength low alloy steel
Authors: Jiang Q L , Li Y J , Wang J , Zhang L
Published: May 2010

The influences of alloying elements on chemical composition of non-metallic inclusions, impact toughness and microstructure in weld metals of high strength low alloy steels have been studied. Results indicated that microstructure had changed from a mixture of acicular ferrite, proeutectoid ferrite, ferrite side plates and microphases to a mixture of acicular ferrite, bainite and microphases due to the addition of Mn and Ti. The impact toughness of weld metal was improved correspondingly. The volume fraction and composition of inclusions both influenced the proportion of acicular ferrite. Mn and Si based oxide globular inclusions located at the boundary of acicular ferrite plates in the weld metal produced using C–Mn–Si–Cu wire. When Mn and Ti were added to welding wires, the inclusions within acicular ferrite plates permitted fewer primary acicular ferrite plates to grow into relatively larger dimensions. Secondary acicular ferrites nucleating on pre-existing ferrite plates refined microstructure effectively.
Combinatorial gene therapy renders increased survival in cirrhotic rats
Authors: Gálvez-Gastélum Francisco J , Segura-Flores Aida A , Senties-Gomez María D , Muñoz-Valle Jose F , Armendáriz-Borunda Juan S
Published: May 2010

Background

Liver fibrosis ranks as the second cause of death in México's productive-age population. This pathology is characterized by acummulation of fibrillar proteins in hepatic parenchyma causing synthetic and metabolic disfunction. Remotion of excessive fibrous proteins might result in benefit for subjects increasing survival index. The goal of this work was to find whether the already known therapeutical effect of human urokinase Plasminogen Activator and human Matrix Metalloprotease 8 extends survival index in cirrhotic animals.

Methods

Wistar rats (80 g) underwent chronic intoxication with CCl4: mineral oil for 8 weeks. Cirrhotic animals were injected with a combined dose of Ad-delta-huPA plus Ad-MMP8 (3 × 1011 and 1.5 × 1011 vp/Kg, respectively) or with Ad-beta-Gal (4.5 × 1011) and were killed after 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days. Then, liver and serum were collected. An additional set of cirrhotic animals injected with combined gene therapy was also monitored for their probability of survival.

Results

Only the cirrhotic animals treated with therapeutical genes (Ad-delta-huPA+Ad-MMP-8) showed improvement in liver fibrosis. These results correlated with hydroxyproline determinations. A significant decrement in alpha-SMA and TGF-beta1 gene expression was also observed. Cirrhotic rats treated with Ad-delta-huPA plus Ad-MMP8 had a higher probability of survival at 60 days with respect to Ad-beta-Gal-injected animals.

Conclusion

A single administration of Ad-delta-huPA plus Ad-MMP-8 is efficient to induce fibrosis regression and increase survival in experimental liver fibrosis.
Gene expression changes in mononuclear cells in patients with metabolic syndrome after acute intake of phenol-rich virgin olive oil
Authors: Camargo Antonio , Ruano Juan , Fernandez Juan M , Parnell Laurence D , Jimenez Anabel , Santos-Gonzalez Monica , Marin Carmen , Perez-Martinez Pablo , Uceda Marino , Lopez-Miranda Jose , Perez-Jimenez Francisco
Published: May 2010

Background

Previous studies have shown that acute intake of high-phenol virgin olive oil reduces pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidant and pro-thrombotic markers compared with low phenols virgin olive oil, but it still remains unclear whether effects attributed to its phenolic fraction are exerted at transcriptional level in vivo. To achieve this goal, we aimed at identifying expression changes in genes which could be mediated by virgin olive oil phenol compounds in the human.

Results

Postprandial gene expression microarray analysis was performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells during postprandial period. Two virgin olive oil-based breakfasts with high (398 ppm) and low (70 ppm) content of phenolic compounds were administered to 20 patients suffering from metabolic syndrome following a double-blinded, randomized, crossover design. To eliminate the potential effect that might exist in their usual dietary habits, all subjects followed a similar low-fat, carbohydrate rich diet during the study period. Microarray analysis identified 98 differentially expressed genes (79 underexpressed and 19 overexpressed) when comparing the intake of phenol-rich olive oil with low-phenol olive oil. Many of these genes seem linked to obesity, dyslipemia and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Among these, several genes seem involved in inflammatory processes mediated by transcription factor NF-κB, activator protein-1 transcription factor complex AP-1, cytokines, mitogen-activated protein kinases MAPKs or arachidonic acid pathways.

Conclusion

This study shows that intake of virgin olive oil based breakfast, which is rich in phenol compounds is able to repress in vivo expression of several pro-inflammatory genes, thereby switching activity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to a less deleterious inflammatory profile. These results provide at least a partial molecular basis for reduced risk of cardiovascular disease observed in Mediterranean countries, where virgin olive oil represents a main source of dietary fat. Admittedly, other lifestyle factors are also likely to contribute to lowered risk of cardiovascular disease in this region.
In silico identification of the sea squirt selenoproteome
Authors: Jiang Liang , Liu Qiong , Ni Jiazuan
Published: May 2010

Background

Computational methods for identifying selenoproteins have been developed rapidly in recent years. However, it is still difficult to identify the open reading frame (ORF) of eukaryotic selenoprotein gene, because the TGA codon for a selenocysteine (Sec) residue in the active centre of selenoprotein is traditionally a terminal signal of protein translation. Although the identification of selenoproteins from genomes through bioinformatics methods has been conducted in bacteria, unicellular eukaryotes, insects and several vertebrates, only a few results have been reported on the ancient chordate selenoproteins.

Results

A gene assembly algorithm SelGenAmic has been constructed and presented in this study for identifying selenoprotein genes from eukaryotic genomes. A method based on this algorithm was developed to build an optimal TGA-containing-ORF for each TGA in a genome, followed by protein similarity analysis through conserved sequence alignments to screen out selenoprotein genes form these ORFs. This method improved the sensitivity of detecting selenoproteins from a genome due to the design that all TGAs in the genome were investigated for its possibility of decoding as a Sec residue. Using this method, eighteen selenoprotein genes were identified from the genome of Ciona intestinalis, leading to its member of selenoproteome up to 19. Among them a selenoprotein W gene was found to have two SECIS elements in the 3'-untranslated region. Additionally, the disulfide bond formation protein A (DsbA) was firstly identified as a selenoprotein in the ancient chordates of Ciona intestinalis, Ciona savignyi and Branchiostoma floridae, while selenoprotein DsbAs had only been found in bacteria and green algae before.

Conclusion

The method based on SelGenAmic algorithm is capable of identifying eukaryotic selenoprotein genes from their genomes. Application of this method to Ciona intestinalis proves its successes in finding Sec-decoding TGA from large-scale eukaryotic genome sequences, which fills the gap in our knowledge on the ancient chordate selenoproteins.