bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
It's Not Just Competitors: Acknowledging and Accommodating “Interfering Busybodies” and their Challenges to Patent Validity*
Authors: Weatherall Kimberlee
Published: April 2009

In patent, institutional design matters, and goals matter to institutional design. This article concerns the institutional design of mechanisms that can be used by third parties to challenge the validity of proposed or granted patents in the patent office—oppositions, revocations and similar processes. This article traces the various goals of these mechanisms, and how those goals have changed over time. It argues that recent economic and legal literature, which has influenced proposals for reforming these systems, is altogether too neat and tidy, treating public interest participants as interfering busybodies. It is better to acknowledge and embrace groups like Peer to Patent and the Public Patent Foundation, and think about how, in the long term, we can adjust aspects of the patent system to incorporate public input without too much sacrifice to politics and uncertainty.
Investigation of the distribution of lymphocyte subsets and zinc levels in multitransfused β‐thalassemia major patients
Authors: AL‐AWADHI A. M. , AlFADHLI S. M. , AL‐KHALDI D. , BORHAMA M. , BORUSLY M.
Published: April 2009

Homozygous β‐thalassemia is a common genetic disorder in the Arabian Peninsula and an important cause of morbidity in Kuwait. The anemia is so severe that chronic blood transfusions, and the resulting iron overload, cause a shift in immunoregulatory balances and a deficiency in zinc. It was reported that individual immunological profile of CD8+ T‐lymphocytes may have a modifying effect on the severity of iron overload in HFE homozygous hemochromatosis patients, with low numbers being negatively correlated with the total amount of body iron stores. This has not been tested in thalassemia major patients. This study was designed to utilize flow cytometric immunophenotyping to characterize effects of regular blood transfusion, and high serum ferritin levels because of irregular use of iron chelation therapy on T lymphocytes (CD2, CD3, CD4 and CD8), B lymphocytes (CD19) and natural killer cells (CD56) and zinc levels in the blood of patients with thalassemia major (n = 49) and healthy normal controls (n = 60) in Kuwait. None of the patients had active infections. T‐cell markers’ percentage levels were comparable between patients and controls (P > 0.05), while B cell marker (CD19) was significantly higher in patients (P = 0.007). Patients had lower percentage levels of CD56 cells (P = 0.007) and normal serum zinc. All patients had high serum ferritin levels with no significant correlation to CD8+ T lymphocytes (P > 0.05). High iron stores did not have an effect on T lymphocytes’ profile, with normal zinc levels perhaps related to non compliance with chelation therapy. The high B cell marker may be indicative of stimulation of antibody producing cells as a result of regular blood transfusions.
Effects of AT1 Receptor Antagonism With Candesartan on Endothelial Function in Patients With Hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Perrone‐Filardi Pasquale , Corrado Luigi , Brevetti Gregorio , Silvestro Antonio , Dellegrottaglie Santo , Cafiero Maria , Caiazzo Gianluca , Petretta Andrea , Maglione Antonio , Monda Cinzia , Guerra Giuseppina , Marzano Antonio , Cesarano Paolo , Gargiulo Paola , Chiariello Massimo
Published: April 2009

Endothelial dysfunction is a major determinant of atherosclerosis and a negative prognostic factor in patients with coronary artery disease and hypertension. Recovery of endothelial dysfunction has been associated with improved prognosis in these patients. The aim of the present study was to verify whether antagonism of angiotensin II AT1 receptors with an angiotensin receptor blocker, candesartan, improved endothelial function in patients with hypertension, stable coronary artery disease, and endothelial dysfunction. We studied 26 patients who were receiving β‐blockers with optimal blood pressure control, in a randomized, double blind study. Patients were randomized to placebo (n=13) or to candesartan 16 mg/d (n=13) for 2 months. Endothelial function was assessed by ultrasound using hyperemic flow‐mediated dilation of the brachial artery. Mean arterial blood pressure was unchanged in both groups (from 93.3±9.2 to 93.2±17.3 mm Hg in the candesartan group and from 101.3±14.2 to 102.3±13.9 mm Hg in the placebo group; both P=ns). Maximal blood flow was similar between placebo and candesartan groups at baseline and at the end of the study, whereas flow‐mediated dilation significantly increased in the candesartan group (from 5.27%±1.69% to 7.15%±2.67%; P=0.01) but remained unchanged in the placebo group (from 4.49%±1.97% to 5.88%±2.30%; P=ns). AT1 receptor antagonism with candesartan, in addition to β‐blocker therapy, improves endothelial function in high‐risk hypertensive patients.
The Risks and Benefits of Initial Irbesartan/Hydrochlorothiazide Combination Therapy in Patients With Severe Hypertension
Authors: Lapuerta Pablo , Franklin Stanley
Published: April 2009

The impact of delays in blood pressure (BP) reduction is particularly relevant for patients with severe hypertension who are at risk for hypertensive emergencies. Combination therapies may hold promise as initial treatment for these patients. The safety and efficacy of initial irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide (angiotensin receptor blocker/thiazide) treatment was compared with that of irbesartan as monotherapy in a multicenter, double‐blind, parallel‐group study in patients with severe hypertension. After 5 weeks, 47% of patients receiving combination therapy achieved a target diastolic BP <90 mm Hg compared with 33% with monotherapy (P=.0005). Similarly, systolic BP/diastolic BP <140/90 mm Hg targets were reached by more subjects treated with combination therapy than subjects receiving monotherapy (34.6% vs 19.2%, P<.0001). Initial use of combination therapy instead of monotherapy is estimated to prevent between 250 and 4500 cardiovascular events in every 100,000 severely hypertensive patients over 5 years, without significantly increasing serious adverse event rates.
Aldosterone Excess or Escape: Treating Resistant Hypertension
Authors: Ubaid‐Girioli Samira , De Souza Leoní Adriana , Yugar‐Toledo Juan Carlos , Cláudio Martins Luiz , Ferreira‐Melo Sílvia , Rizzi Coelho Otávio , Sierra Cristina , Coca Antonio , Pimenta Eduardo , Moreno Heitor
Published: April 2009

Aldosterone excess or “escape” can occur after treatment with medications that block the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system or in undiagnosed primary aldosteronism. Spironolactone is thought to be an important addition to resistant hypertension (RH) treatment. In this study, resistant (RH) and controlled (CH) hypertensives and normotensive patients were submitted to echocardiography, flow‐mediated vasodilation, carotid intima‐media wall thickness studies, renin plasma activity, and aldosterone plasma levels and plasma and urinary sodium and potassium concentrations at baseline (pre‐spironolactone phase). Subsequently, for only RH and CH groups, 25 mg/d spironolactone was added to preexisting treatments over 6 months. Afterwards, these parameters were reassessed (post‐spironolactone phase). The RH and CH groups achieved reductions in blood pressure (P<.001), decreases in left ventricular hypertrophy (P<.001), improved diastolic function (Kappa index RH: 0.219 and Kappa index CH: 0.392) and increases in aldosterone concentrations (P<.05). The RH group attained improved endothelium‐dependent (P<.001) and independent (P=.007) function. Optimized RH treatment with spironolactone reduces blood pressure and improves endothelial and diastolic function and left ventricular hypertrophy despite the presence of aldosterone excess or escape.
Identification of single copy nuclear DNA markers for North American pit vipers
Authors: GIBBS H. LISLE , DIAZ JOSE
Published: April 2009

We describe 18 single copy nuclear DNA loci (10 loci cloned from a Sistrurus catenatus catenatus genomic library and eight intron‐based loci amplified using conserved primers) that detect sequence variation in species from all genera (Sistrurus, Agkistrodon and Crotalus) of North American pit viper snakes. These loci (mean size in bp ± SE: 433 ± 51) show large numbers of phylogenetically informative sites across species (mean + SE: 10.2 ± 1.5), but limited variation within subspecies suggesting that they will be most useful for multilocus species‐level phylogenetic analyses in these snakes.
Rarebit perimetry and fovea test before and after cataract surgery
Authors: Nilsson Maria , Abdiu Oran , Laurell Carl‐Gustaf , Martin Lene
Published: April 2009

Purpose:  To evaluate the effect of cataract on rarebit perimetry and the fovea test.

Methods:  Twenty‐five consecutive patients scheduled for cataract surgery (mean age 63.0 ± 7.9 years) were examined prior to and after cataract surgery with a complete ophthalmological examination. In addition, the rarebit perimetry (RBP) and the rarebit fovea test (RFT) were performed.

Results:  Best‐corrected visual acuity [BCVA, expressed in minimum angle of resolution (MAR)], RBP and RFT mean hit rate (MHR) improved significantly after cataract surgery. The relative pre–postsurgery difference was larger in the RFT [2.1 standard deviations (SDs)] compared to in BCVA (0.78 SDs). Seven patients had good BCVA (≤ 1.25) and RBP (83–99%) but low RFT (0–66%) before surgery. One patient with low preoperative BCVA (2.5) had a normal RFT (94%).

Conclusion:  Cataract influenced both the RFT and RBP test, albeit the former more than the latter. The influence of cataract on RFT results, even when visual acuity is decreased only moderately, has to be taken into account when evaluating foveal function in patients with cataract. The larger relative change in RFT compared to BCVA values is thought to indicate that RFT is more sensitive for the effect of cataract. Therefore, RFT appears to be a sensitive test for visual disturbance and can presumably provide additional information at the preoperative evaluation of the patient.
Cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 expression in photon‐radiated and non‐radiated uveal melanomas
Authors: Suesskind Daniela , Paulsen Frank , Buchgeister Markus , Spitzer Bernhard , Rohrbach Jens M. , Bartz‐Schmidt Karl U. , Spitzer Martin S.
Published: April 2009

Purpose:  To determine and compare cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression in photon‐radiated and non‐radiated malignant uveal melanomas and to analyse the correlation between COX‐2 expression and prognosis.

Methods:  Immunohistochemical staining for COX‐2 was performed on 21 uveal melanomas that were endoresected after prior stereotactic radiotherapy with photons and on 22 tumours that were treated by endoresection without prior radiotherapy. COX‐2 staining was further analysed in respect to cell type, maximal prominence, time interval between radiotherapy and surgery, apoptotic index (AI), proliferative index (PI) and the development of metastatic disease.

Results:  There was no difference in COX‐2 expression between radiated and non‐radiated melanomas (P > 0.15). COX‐2 staining correlated with neither the tumour prominence (P > 0.40) nor the AI or the PI (both P > 0.35). Tumours with high COX‐2 expression were significantly more likely to develop metastasis (P = 0.022).

Conclusion:  Radiotherapy with photons does not induce COX‐2 expression in malignant melanomas of the uvea. But high COX‐2 expression may be a marker for poor prognosis.
Anatomical and functional outcome in brilliant blue G assisted chromovitrectomy
Authors: Henrich Paul B. , Haritoglou Christos , Meyer Peter , Ferreira Paulo R. , Schötzau Andreas , Katamay Robert , Josifova Tatjana , Schneider Ulrike , Flammer Josef , Priglinger Siegfried
Published: April 2009

Purpose:  To evaluate the potential of brilliant blue G (BBG) for intraoperative staining of the inner limiting membrane (ILM) with respect to staining properties and surgical outcome.

Methods:  In a retrospective, non‐comparative clinical case series, we analysed 17 consecutive chromovitrectomy interventions for surgery of macular holes, ERMs, vitreoretinal traction syndromes and cystoid macular oedema. Following complete posterior vitreous detachment, BBG was injected into the vitreous cavity at a concentration of 0.25 mg/ml, followed by immediate washout. Main outcome measures were staining properties, visual acuity, central visual field testing and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements over a mean follow‐up period of 3 months.

Results:  ILM staining was somewhat less intensive for BBG than for average indocyanine green (ICG) chromovitrectomy. However, the ILM was removed successfully without additional ICG in 15/17 patients. Postoperative visual acuity was improved in 16/17 patients and remained unchanged in one patient. Central retinal OCT thickness showed a postoperative reduction, with values ranging from +7 to −295 μm (median −89 μm). Neither visual field defects nor any other adverse events were recorded.

Conclusion:  BBG permits sufficient staining for safe ILM removal. In this short‐term study, good anatomical and functional results were achieved and no adverse events were observed.
Vibration Characteristics of a Box-Type Structure
Authors: Lin Tian Ran , Pan Jie
Published: April 2009

This paper is concerned with the understanding of vibration characteristics of a box-type structure using the finite element method as a tool. We found that mode shapes of the box structure can be classified according to their symmetrical properties, which are defined by the relative motion between the six plate panels constituting the box. The infinite number of modes of the box-type structure is divided into six groups. Each group has common features of symmetry and similar coupling mechanisms between component panels and distribution of out-of-plane and in-plane components of vibration. Local and net-volume displacements associated with each mode can be correlated with the characteristics of the box as sound sources. Large volume displacement modes resembling the simple sound sources (e.g., monopole and dipole) are identified among the low frequency modes. The distributions of in-plane and out-of-plane (including translational and rotational vibrations at the box edges) vibration components in the modes of the box are also investigated to illustrate the energy transmission mechanism between the box panels.
Tire Damping Effect on Ride Quality of Vehicles With Active Control Suspensions
Authors: Lieh Junghsen
Published: April 2009

This paper studies the tire damping effect on the ride performance of a vehicle equipped with active suspension. Instead of first-order equation, a second-order approach is used for controller design. Both full-state and velocity-feedback concepts are considered in the system. Although a different control algorithm is used, however, simulation results are found similar to those obtained by previous research, which verifies the positive effect of tire damping on improving ride quality.
An Improvement to Holospectrum Based Field Balancing Method by Reselection of Balancing Object
Authors: Liao Yuhe , Lang Genfeng , Wu Fangji , Qu Liangsheng
Published: April 2009

In this paper, the holospectrum technique based balancing method has been improved by reselection of the balancing object. Current holospectrum based balancing technique uses the initial phase vector (IPV) as the balancing object. Theoretical analysis of the precession behavior of an unbalanced rotor with anisotropic stiffness shows that, compared with the IPV, its forward precession component vector is much better in describing the rotor balance state and is more suitable to be used as the measurement of unbalance response. After the backward precession component is removed, the impact of probe orientation on the balancing analysis and calculation is completely eliminated and the computational procedure is greatly simplified without sacrificing the balancing precision. The experiments and field application cases verify the accuracy and effectiveness of this method.
Prediction of Pressure Pulsation for the Reciprocating Compressor System Using Finite Disturbance Theory
Authors: Xu Bin , Feng Quanke , Yu Xiaoling
Published: April 2009

Pressure pulsations in the piping system of the reciprocating compressor produce excessive noise and even lead to damage in piping and machinery. Therefore, it is very important to predict precisely the pressure pulsation with large amplitude in the piping system. In this paper, the finite disturbance theory is used to solve the nonlinear partial differential equations that describe the unsteady one-dimensional compressible flow in the complex piping system. The solution is then compared with experimental results. The comparison shows that the finite theory fits the large pressure disturbance more precisely than the acoustic theory.
Vibration Control and Unbalance Estimation of a Nonlinear Rotor System Using Disturbance Observer
Authors: Inoue Tsuyoshi , Liu Jun , Ishida Yukio , Yoshimura Yusuke
Published: April 2009

In rotating machinery, rotor unbalance causes many resonances at critical speeds corresponding to different modes. In this paper, a vibration control method for rotor systems utilizing disturbance observer is proposed. The nonlinear terms, unbalance, parameter variations, and uncertain terms of a rotor system are lumped into a disturbance term, and this term is canceled by using disturbance observer. As a result, the vibrations are suppressed to small amplitudes all over the rotational speed range. Simultaneously, unbalance of the first mode is estimated from the information of control force of disturbance observer. Moreover, the effects of parameter errors of the control system are also investigated. The validity of the proposed method is verified through numerical simulations and experiments.
Vibration of the Rigid Rotor Supported by a Repulsive Magnetic Bearing (Influences of Magnetic Anisotropies of Magnets)
Authors: Inoue Tsuyoshi , Ishida Yukio , Tsumura Takeshi
Published: April 2009

This study focuses on the vibration of the rotor supported by a repulsive-type passive magnetic bearing. It evaluates the restoring force of a repulsive magnetic bearing numerically by considering the effects of magnetic anisotropies of the inner and the outer magnets. The study mainly investigates the occurrences of linear and nonlinear parametric characteristics, and the excitation forces for each pattern of magnetic anisotropies. Moreover, it clarifies the effects of each magnetic anisotropy pattern on the occurrences of various resonance phenomena theoretically and experimentally.
On the Attachment Location of Dynamic Vibration Absorbers
Authors: Petit Frits , Loccufier Mia , Aeyels Dirk
Published: April 2009

In mechanical engineering a commonly used approach to attenuate vibration amplitudes in resonant conditions is the attachment of a dynamic vibration absorber. The optimal parameters for this damped spring-mass system are well known for single-degree-of-freedom undamped main systems (Den Hartog, J. P., 1956, Mechanical Vibrations, McGraw-Hill, New York). An important parameter when designing absorbers for multi-degree-of-freedom systems is the location of the absorber, i.e., where to physically attach it. This parameter has a large influence on the possible vibration reduction. Often, however, antinodal locations of a single mode are a priori taken as best attachment locations. This single mode approach loses accuracy when dealing with a large absorber mass or systems with closely spaced eigenfrequencies. To analyze the influence of the neighboring modes, the effect the absorber has on the eigenfrequencies of the undamped main system is studied. Given the absorber mass, we determine the absorber locations that provide eigenfrequencies shifted as far as possible from the resonance frequency as this improves the vibration attenuation. It is shown that for increasing absorber mass, the new eigenfrequencies cannot shift further than the neighboring antiresonances due to interlacing properties. Since these antiresonances depend on the attachment location, an optimal location can be found. A procedure that yields the optimal absorber location is described. This procedure combines information about the eigenvector of the mode to be controlled with knowledge about the neighboring antiresonances. As the neighboring antiresonances are a representation of the activity of the neighboring modes, the proposed method extends the commonly used single mode approach to a multimode approach. It seems that in resonance, a high activity of the neighboring modes has a negative effect on the vibration reduction.
Performance and Radial Loading of a Mixed-Flow Pump Under Non-Uniform Suction Flow
Authors: van Esch B. P. M.
Published: April 2009

Many centrifugal pumps have a suction velocity profile, which is nonuniform, either by design like in double-suction pumps, sump pumps, and in-line pumps, or as a result of an installation close to an upstream disturbance like a pipe bend. This paper presents an experimental study on the effect of a nonuniform suction velocity profile on performance of a mixed-flow pump and hydrodynamic forces on the impeller. In the experiments, a newly designed dynamometer is used, equipped with six full Wheatstone bridges of strain gauges to measure the six generalized force components. It is placed in between the shaft of the pump and the impeller and corotates with the rotor system. A high accuracy is obtained due to the orthogonality of bridge positioning and the signal conditioning electronics embedded within the dynamometer. The suction flow distribution to the pump is adapted using a pipe bundle situated in the suction pipe. Results of measurements show the influence of the suction flow profile and blade interaction on pump performance and forces. Among the most important observations are a backward whirling motion of the rotor system and a considerable steady radial force.
Experimental and Computational Study of Oscillating Turbine Cascade and Influence of Part-Span Shrouds
Authors: Huang X. Q. , He L. , Bell David L.
Published: April 2009

This paper presents a combined experimental and computational study of unsteady flows in a linear turbine cascade oscillating in a three-dimensional bending/flapping mode. Detailed experimental data are obtained on a seven-bladed turbine cascade rig. The middle blade is driven to oscillate and oscillating cascade data are obtained using an influence coefficient method. The numerical simulations are performed by using a 3D nonlinear time-marching Navier–Stokes flow solver. Single-passage domain computations for arbitrary interblade phase angles are achieved by using the Fourier shape correction method. Both measurements and predictions demonstrate a fully 3D behavior of the unsteady flows. The influence of the aerodynamic blockage introduced by part-span shrouds on turbine flutter has been investigated by introducing flat plate shaped shrouds at 75% span. In contrast to practical applications, in the present test configuration, the mode of vibration of the blades remains unchanged by the introduction of the part-span shroud. This allows the influence of the aerodynamic blockage introduced by the part-span shroud to be assessed in isolation from the change in mode shape. A simple shroud model has been developed in the computational solver. The computed unsteady pressures around the shrouds are in good agreement with the experimental data, demonstrating the validity of the simple shroud model. Despite of notable variations in local unsteady pressures around the shrouds, the present results show that the blade aerodynamic damping is largely unaffected by the aerodynamic blockage introduced by part-span shrouds.
Vortex Dynamics and Shedding of a Low Aspect Ratio, Flat Wing at Low Reynolds Numbers and High Angles of Attack
Authors: Morse Daniel R. , Liburdy James A.
Published: April 2009

This study focuses on the detection and characterization of vortices in low Reynolds number separated flow over the elliptical leading edge of a low aspect ratio, flat plate wing. Velocity fields were obtained using the time-resolved particle image velocimetry. Experiments were performed on a wing with aspect ratio of 0.5 for velocities of 1.1 m/s, 2.0 m/s, and 5.0 m/s corresponding to chord length Reynolds numbers of 1.47×104, 2.67×104, and 6.67×104, respectively, and angles of attack of 14 deg, 16 deg, 18 deg, and 20 deg. A local swirl calculation was used on proper orthogonal decomposition filtered data for vortex identification and corresponding vortex centers were tracked to determine convective velocities. The swirl function was also analyzed for its temporal frequency response at several discrete points in both the shear layer and in the separated recirculation region. A peak frequency was detected in the shear layer with a corresponding Strouhal number of approximately 3.4 based on the flow direction projected length scale. The Strouhal number increases with both angle of attack and Reynolds number. The shear layer convective length scale, based on the vortex convection velocity, is found to be consistent with the mean separation distance between vortices within the shear layer. This length scale decreases with increasing Rec.
Unsteady Wall Shear Stress in Transient Flow Using Electrochemical Method
Authors: Zidouh H. , Labraga L. , William-Louis M.
Published: April 2009

Experimental measurements of the wall shear stress combined with those of the velocity profiles via the electrochemical technique and ultrasonic pulsed Doppler velocimetry are used to analyze the flow behavior in transient flows caused by a downstream short pipe valve closure. The Reynolds number of the steady flow based on the pipe diameter is Re=148,600. The results show that the quasisteady approach of representing unsteady friction is valid during the initial phase for relatively large decelerations. For higher decelerations, the unsteady wall shear stress is consistently higher than the quasisteady values obtained from the velocity profiles. Attention has been focused on the friction acceleration model. The results obtained from this study show the ability of the electrochemical method in determining the local unsteady wall shear stress even in severe decelerating transient flows.
Pre-Stall Instability Distribution Over a Transonic Compressor Rotor
Authors: Gannon A. J. , Hobson G. V.
Published: April 2009

An investigation of the behavior of a transonic compressor rotor when operating close to stall is presented. The specific areas of interest are the behavior and location of low-frequency instabilities close to stall. In running close to stall, compressors can begin to exhibit nonperiodic flow between the blade passages even when appearing to be operating in a stable steady-state condition. The data from the current rotor clearly show that low-frequency instabilities were present during steady-state operation when stall was approached. These frequencies are not geometrically fixed to the rotor and typically appear at 0.3–0.8 of the rotor speed. The presence of these low-frequency instabilities is known and detection is reasonably commonplace; however, attempts to quantify the location and strength of these instabilities as stall is approached have proved difficult. In the current test fast response pressure sensors were positioned in the case-wall; upstream, downstream, and over the rotor blade tips. Simultaneous data from the sensors were taken at successive steady-state settings with each being closer to stall. A time domain analysis of the data investigates the magnitude of the instabilities and their transient effect on the relative inlet flow angle. The data are also presented in the frequency domain to show the development and distribution of the instabilities over the rotor as stall was approached. Initially the instabilities appeared within the rotor row and extended downstream but at operation closer to stall they began to protrude upstream as well. The greatest amplitude of the instabilities was within the blade row in the complex flow region that contains phenomena such as the tip-vortex/normal-shock interaction and the shock/boundary-layer interaction. In addition as stall is approached the growth of the instabilities is nonlinear and not confined to one frequency.
Inviscid Flow Past Two Cylinders
Authors: Alassar R. S. , El-Gebeily M. A.
Published: April 2009

A simple solution of the problem of inviscid flow past two circular cylinders is presented. The two cylinders may be of different diameters and located at any distance from each other. The solutions of the two main cases, namely, when the flow is perpendicular to the center-to-center line and when the flow is parallel to it (tandem cylinders), lead to a solution of the problem when the flow is in an arbitrary direction.
Fire in the Earth System
Authors: Bowman David M. J. S. , Balch Jennifer K. , Artaxo Paulo , Bond William J. , Carlson Jean M. , Cochrane Mark A. , D’Antonio Carla M. , DeFries Ruth S. , Doyle John C. , Harrison Sandy P. , Johnston Fay H. , Keeley Jon E. , Krawchuk Meg A. , Kull Christian A. , Marston J. Brad , Moritz Max A. , Prentice I. Colin , Roos Christopher I. , Scott Andrew C. , Swetnam Thomas W. , van der Werf Guido R. , Pyne Stephen J.
Published: April 2009

Burn, Baby, Burn

Wildfires can have dramatic and devastating effects on landscapes and human structures and are important agents in environmental transformation. Their impacts on nonanthropocentric aspects of the environment, such as ecosystems, biodiversity, carbon reserves, and climate, are often overlooked.

Bowman
et al.

(p.
481
) review what is known and what is needed to develop a holistic understanding of the role of fire in the Earth system, particularly in view of the pervasive impact of fires and the likelihood that they will become increasingly difficult to control as climate changes.
Intuition and Deliberation: Two Systems for Strategizing in the Brain
Authors: Kuo Wen-Jui , Sjöström Tomas , Chen Yu-Ping , Wang Yen-Hsiang , Huang Chen-Ying
Published: April 2009

Optimal gaming requires matching the type of neural circuitry (intuitive versus deliberative) to the type of game.
Genome-Wide Survey of SNP Variation Uncovers the Genetic Structure of Cattle Breeds
Authors:   The Bovine HapMap Consortium, Gibbs Richard A. , Taylor Jeremy F. , Van Tassell Curtis P. , Barendse William , Eversole Kellye A. , Gill Clare A. , Green Ronnie D. , Hamernik Debora L. , Kappes Steven M. , Lien Sigbjørn , Matukumalli Lakshmi K. , McEwan John C. , Nazareth Lynne V. , Schnabel Robert D. , Weinstock George M. , Wheeler David A. , Ajmone-Marsan Paolo , Boettcher Paul J. , Caetano Alexandre R. , Garcia Jose Fernando , Hanotte Olivier , Mariani Paola , Skow Loren C. , Sonstegard Tad S. , Williams John L. , Diallo Boubacar , Hailemariam Lemecha , Martinez Mario L. , Morris Chris A. , Silva Luiz O. C. , Spelman Richard J. , Mulatu Woudyalew , Zhao Keyan , Abbey Colette A. , Agaba Morris , Araujo Flábio R. , Bunch Rowan J. , Burton James , Gorni Chiara , Olivier Hanotte , Harrison Blair E. , Luff Bill , Machado Marco A. , Mwakaya Joel , Plastow Graham , Sim Warren , Smith Timothy , Thomas Merle B. , Valentini Alessio , Williams Paul , Womack James , Woolliams John A. , Liu Yue , Qin Xiang , Worley Kim C. , Gao Chuan , Jiang Huaiyang , Moore Stephen S. , Ren Yanru , Song Xing-Zhi , Bustamante Carlos D. , Hernandez Ryan D. , Muzny Donna M. , Patil Shobha , San Lucas Anthony , Fu Qing , Kent Matthew P. , Vega Richard , Matukumalli Aruna , McWilliam Sean , Sclep Gert , Bryc Katarzyna , Choi Jungwoo , Gao Hong , Grefenstette John J. , Murdoch Brenda , Stella Alessandra , Villa-Angulo Rafael , Wright Mark , Aerts Jan , Jann Oliver , Negrini Riccardo , Goddard Mike E. , Hayes Ben J. , Bradley Daniel G. , Barbosa da Silva Marcos , Lau Lilian P. L. , Liu George E. , Lynn David J. , Panzitta Francesca , Dodds Ken G.
Published: April 2009

A survey of genetic diversity of cattle suggests two domestication events in Asia and selection by husbandry.
Farm Animal Research in Crisis
Authors: Roberts R. M. , Smith G. W. , Bazer F. W. , Cibelli J. , Seidel G. E. , Bauman D. E. , Reynolds L. P. , Ireland J. J.
Published: April 2009

Inadequate funding threatens vital agricultural and biomedical research with farm animals.
Comment on “Colossal Ionic Conductivity at Interfaces of Epitaxial ZrO
2
:Y
2
O
3
/SrTiO
3
Heterostructures”
Authors: Guo Xin
Published: April 2009

García-Barriocanal
et al
. (Reports, 1 August 2008, p. 676) reported colossal conductivity enhancements in yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ)/strontium titanate (STO) epitaxial heterostructures and claimed that the conductivity was ionic. I argue that the claimed ionic conductivity lacks experimental support and that the observed conductivity enhancement is most probably due to the p-type conductivity of STO.
Response to Comment on “Colossal Ionic Conductivity at Interfaces of Epitaxial ZrO
2
:Y
2
O
3
/SrTiO
3
Heterostructures”
Authors: García-Barriocanal J. , Rivera-Calzada A. , Varela M. , Sefrioui Z. , Iborra E. , Leon C. , Pennycook S. J. , Santamaría J.
Published: April 2009

Guo suggests that the reported ionic conductivity of ZrO
2
:Y
2
O
3
/SrTiO
3
heterostructures might be due to the electronic conductivity from the SrTiO
3
. We point out shortcomings in his reasoning and underscore that our results show that any electronic contribution to the conductance is at least three orders of magnitude lower than the ionic contribution determined by ac methods.
A Global View of the Lithosphere-Asthenosphere Boundary
Authors: Rychert Catherine A. , Shearer Peter M.
Published: April 2009

Seismic imaging reveals a global velocity anomaly at depths of 70 to 100 kilometers that may be from some melt or a strong fabric in Earth’s mantle.
Summer Institute to Improve University Science Teaching
Authors: Pfund Christine , Miller Sarah , Brenner Kerry , Bruns Peter , Chang Amy , Ebert-May Diane , Fagen Adam P. , Gentile Jim , Gossens Sandra , Khan Ishrat M. , Labov Jay B. , Pribbenow Christine Maidl , Susman Millard , Tong Lillian , Wright Robin , Yuan Robert T. , Wood William B. , Handelsman Jo
Published: April 2009

The goal of the National Academies Summer Institute is to change teaching practices in introductory, undergraduate biology courses.
Hows and Whys of Coming Together
The Social Amoebae
The Biology of Cellular Slime Molds

by John Tyler Bonner

Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ, 2009. 156 pp. $19.95, £11.95. ISBN 9780691139395.
Authors: Chisholm Rex L.
Published: April 2009

Bonner's brief but wide-ranging introduction to the biology of cellular slime mold (an organism he has studied for over six decades) covers such topics as life cycle, evolution, ecology, behavior, development, and differentiation.
How to Keep Science Moving
Authors: Cicerone Ralph J.
Published: April 2009

Recent enthusiam for science in the United States is cause for celebration, but it's also food for thought: What can scientists do to build on this new excitement and support? If the U.S. Congress and administration are to continue to advance science research and education and to rely on science in policy-making, then scientists must do much more to show how science works and how scientific research contributes to the nation.
Genome Scans: Impatient for the Payoff
Authors: Koenig Robert
Published: April 2009

A simmering debate in the genomics community about the likely value of genomewide association studies to gauge inherited risks of developing common diseases went public last week in commentaries published online by the
New England Journal of Medicine
.
Science
Retracts Discredited Paper; Bitter Patent Dispute Continues
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: April 2009

In an unusual decision,
Science
this week retracted a 2005 report without the agreement of all the authors (see p.
463
). The report describes a method, dubbed MAGIC, to identify drug targets by tracking protein movements in live cells.
Leverage: The Root of All Financial Turmoil
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: April 2009

According to a new analysis reported at the German Physical Society meeting, leverage--the practice by hedge funds and other investors of borrowing money to buy investments--is the root of many nettlesome properties of financial markets that classical economics cannot explain, including a propensity to crash.
Snapshots from the Meeting
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: April 2009

Snapshots from the German Physical Society meeting include a method for piping in nanotubes, a surprisingly squishy virus, and an analysis showing that as many German university students ended up in their desired program before reforms were made in the system as after.
A Quest for Compassion
Authors: Miller Greg
Published: April 2009

Guided by a passionate leader, a new research institute hopes to draw lessons from Buddhism to study altruism and make the world a better place
Stars in Dusty Filing Cabinets
Authors: Bhattacharjee Yudhijit
Published: April 2009

A campaign to digitize old sky photographs is squeezing new discoveries out of observations dating back to the mid-19th century.
Reversal of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Protein-Induced Inhibition of Natural Killer Cell Activity by Alpha Interferon and Interleukin-2
Authors: Nair Madhavan P. N. , Schwartz Stanley A.
Published: April 2009

A recombinant fusion peptide, Env-Gag, derived from the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) genome corresponding to a defined portion of the envelope (Env) and internal core (Gag) proteins was examined for immunoregulatory effects on the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cell-enriched, large granular lymphocytes (LGL) from healthy donors. Percoll-separated, NK cell-enriched LGL precultured for 24 h with Env-Gag at 10- and 50-ng/ml concentrations, which significantly stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, caused significant suppression of NK cell activity. Denatured Env-Gag did not cause any effect on the NK cell activity of LGL. Two other control peptides, one derived from theEscherichia colivector used to clone the HIV Env-Gag fusion peptide and the other derived from a non-HIV-1 viral antigen (rubeola virus), did not produce any observable effect on the NK cell activity of LGL, demonstrating the specificity of the effect produced by Env-Gag. Subsequent treatment of LGL with alpha interferon (IFN-α) or interleukin 2 (IL-2) alone partially reversed the Env-Gag-induced suppression of NK cell activity. However, LGL treated with both IFN-α and IL-2 completely reversed the suppression of NK cell cytotoxicity by Env-Gag. The combined effect of IFN-α and IL-2 in enhancing NK cell activity may provide a novel therapeutic approach to the restoration of depressed NK cell activity observed in HIV-infected patients.
Sex-Associated Differences in the Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity Antibody Response to Measles Vaccines
Authors: Atabani Sowsan , Landucci Gary , Steward Michael W. , Whittle Hilton , Tilles Jeremiah G. , Forthal Donald N.
Published: April 2009

In some countries, excessive non-measles-related mortality has been observed among female recipients of high-titer measles vaccines. We determined if differences in the immune response to measles vaccines underlie the excessive female mortality by measuring the measles virus (MV)-specific antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) antibody response in 65 3-year-old Gambian children immunized with Edmonston-Zagreb medium-titer (EZ) or Schwarz standard vaccines during infancy. Among the 20 females and 22 males with undetectable anti-MV antibodies at the time of immunization, females had significantly lower ADCC than males (median cytotoxicities of 1/100 serum dilutions = 8.4 and 12%, respectively;
P
= 0.04). This sex-associated difference was present only among the six female and seven male recipients of EZ vaccine (median cytotoxicities = 5.1 and 19.0%, respectively;
P
= 0.02). There were no significant sex-associated differences in neutralizing antibody activity. Decreased ADCC antibody activity may contribute to the lower survival rate observed in females receiving high-titer measles vaccination.
Characterization of Specific Immune Responses of Mice Inoculated with Recombinant Vaccinia Virus Expressing an 18-Kilodalton Outer Membrane Protein ofBrucella abortus
Authors: Vemulapalli Ramesh , Cravero Silvio , Calvert Christine L. , Toth Thomas E. , Sriranganathan Nammalwar , Boyle Stephen M. , Rossetti Osvaldo L. , Schurig Gerhardt G.
Published: April 2009

Using the shuttle vector pMCO2 and the vaccinia virus wild-type WR strain, we constructed a recombinant virus expressing an 18-kDa outer membrane protein ofBrucella abortus. BALB/c mice inoculated with this virus produced 18-kDa protein-specific antibodies, mostly of immunoglobulin G2a isotype, and in vitro stimulation of splenocytes from these mice with purified maltose binding protein–18-kDa protein fusion resulted in lymphocyte proliferation and gamma interferon production. However, these mice were not protected against a challenge with the virulent strainB. abortus2308. Disruption of the 18-kDa protein's gene in vaccine strainB. abortusRB51 did not affect either the strain's protective capabilities or its in vivo attenuation characteristics. These observations suggest that the 18-kDa protein plays no role in protective immunity.
Homocysteine and Laminin Are Not Prognostic Markers in Patients with Septic Inflammatory Response Syndrome
Authors: Stoiser B. , Thalhammer F. , El-Menyawi I. , Wilfing A. , Daxböck F. , Locker G. J. , Burgmann H.
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study was to measure plasma homocysteine and laminin concentrations in patients with nonbacteremic systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and to compare them with those of a healthy control group. Concerning laminin, significant increased concentrations could be observed in the SIRS group compared to the control group, but for homocysteine, no significance could be observed. In summary, homocysteine and laminin levels are not useful in the prediction of a patient's outcome.
Antibody Responses in Patients with Staphylococcal Septicemia against Two
Staphylococcus aureus
Fibrinogen Binding Proteins: Clumping Factor and an Extracellular Fibrinogen Binding Protein
Authors: Colque-Navarro Patricia , Palma Marco , Söderquist Bo , Flock Jan-Ingmar , Möllby Roland
Published: April 2009

We analyzed the serum antibody responses against two
Staphylococcus aureus
fibrinogen binding proteins, the cell-bound clumping factor (Clf) and an extracellular fibrinogen binding protein (Efb). The material consisted of 105 consecutive serum samples from 41 patients suffering from
S. aureus
septicemia and 72 serum samples from healthy individuals. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed. Healthy individuals showed variable levels of antibodies against the studied antigens, and cutoff levels (upper 95th percentile) against these antigens were determined. No correlation was seen between serum antibody levels against Clf and Efb. In acute-phase samples 27% of patients showed positive antibody levels against Clf and 10% showed positive levels against Efb, while in convalescent-phase samples 63% (26 of 41) showed a positive serology against Clf and 49% (20 of 41) showed a positive serology against Efb. Antibody levels against Efb were significantly lower in the acute-phase sera than in sera from healthy individuals (
P
= 0.002). An antibody response against Clf was most frequent in patients suffering from osteitis plus septic arthritis and from endocarditis (80% positive). The antibody response against Efb appeared to develop later in the course of disease. A possible biological effect of measured antibodies was demonstrated with the help of an inhibition ELISA, in which both high-titer and low-titer sera inhibited the binding of bacteria to fibrinogen. In conclusion, we have demonstrated in vivo production of
S. aureus
fibrinogen binding proteins during deep
S. aureus
infections and a possible diagnostic and prophylactic role of the corresponding serum antibodies in such infections.
Immune Response to
Haemophilus parainfluenzae
in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease
Authors: Mitchell Joanne L. , Hill Susan L.
Published: April 2009

Haemophilus parainfluenzae
is often isolated from the sputa of patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. We have investigated the immune response to this organism in patients with chronic bronchitis (
n
= 3) and bronchiectasis (
n
= 10) and in healthy controls (
n
= 9). Outer membrane proteins (OMPs) of
H. parainfluenzae
were purified for use in enzyme-linked immunosorbent and immunoblot assays. Whole-cell
H. parainfluenzae
preparations were used to adsorb antibodies from serum samples, which were subsequently immunoblot assayed to investigate the antibody response to surface-exposed epitopes. Levels of
H. parainfluenzae
-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG), but not IgA or IgM, were increased in the sera of patients with chronic obstructive lung disease compared to levels in control subjects. The species specificity of the antibody response was confirmed, although a degree of cross-reactivity with
H. influenzae
antigens was observed. IgA and IgG specific for OMPs of
H. parainfluenzae
were demonstrated to be present in the sputa and sera of five patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. Variation in the pattern and intensity of antigen recognition was observed among patients and among immunoglobulin classes. OMPs of approximately 36, 22, and 15 kDa were confirmed to possess epitopes exposed on the surface of intact
H. parainfluenzae
. We have demonstrated the presence of a species-specific systemic immune response to
H. parainfluenzae
in colonized patients. A specific antibody response was also observed in sputum, and the antigen specificity of these responses in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease was investigated for the first time. The presence of a specific immune response suggests that
H. parainfluenzae
may have a pathogenic role in patients with chronic obstructive lung disease.