bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crescendo in Depolarization and Repolarization Heterogeneity Heralds Development of Ventricular Tachycardia in Hospitalized Patients With Decompensated Heart Failure
Authors: Nearing Bruce D. , Wellenius Gregory A. , Mittleman Murray A. , Josephson Mark E. , Burger Andrew J. , Verrier Richard L.
Published: December 2011

Background—

A critical need exists for reliable warning markers of in-hospital life-threatening arrhythmias. We used a new quantitative method to track interlead heterogeneity of depolarization and repolarization to detect premonitory changes before ventricular tachycardia (VT) in hospitalized patients with acute decompensated heart failure.

Methods and Results—

Ambulatory ECGs (leads V
1
, V
5
, and aVF) recorded before initiation of drug therapy from patients enrolled in the PRECEDENT (Prospective Randomized Evaluation of Cardiac Ectopy with Dobutamine or Nesiritide Therapy) trial were analyzed. R-wave heterogeneity (RWH) and T-wave heterogeneity (TWH) were assessed by second central moment analysis and T-wave alternans (TWA) by modified moving average analysis. Of 44 patients studied, 22 had experienced episodes of VT (≥4 beats at heart rates >100 beats/min) following ≥120 minutes of stable sinus rhythm, and 22 were age- and sex-matched patients without VT. TWA increased from 18.6±2.1 μV (baseline, mean±SEM) to 27.9±4.6 μV in lead V
5
at 15 to 30 minutes before VT (
P
<0.05) and remained elevated until the arrhythmia occurred. TWA results in leads V
1
and aVF were similar. RWH and TWH were elevated from 164.1±33.1 and 134.5±20.6 μV (baseline) to 299.8±54.5 and 239.2±37.0 μV at 30 to 45 minutes before VT (
P
<0.05), respectively, preceding the crescendo in TWA by 15 minutes. Matched patients without VT did not display elevated RWH (185.5±29.4 μV) or TWH (157.1±27.2 μV) during the 24-hour period.

Conclusions—

This investigation is the first clinical demonstration of the potential utility of tracking depolarization and repolarization heterogeneity to detect crescendos in electrical instability that could forewarn of impending nonsustained VT.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00270400.
H
2
O
2
-Induced Dilation in Human Coronary Arterioles: Role of Protein Kinase G Dimerization and Large-Conductance Ca
2+
-Activated K
+
Channel Activation
Authors: Zhang David X. , Borbouse Lena , Gebremedhin Debebe , Mendoza Suelhem A. , Zinkevich Natalya S. , Li Rongshan , Gutterman David D.
Published: December 2011

Rationale:

Hydrogen peroxide (H
2
O
2
) serves as a key endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor mediating flow-induced dilation in human coronary arterioles (HCAs). The precise mechanisms by which H
2
O
2
elicits smooth muscle hyperpolarization are not well understood. An important mode of action of H
2
O
2
involves the oxidation of cysteine residues in its target proteins, including protein kinase G (PKG)-Iα, thereby modulating their activities.

Objective:

Here we hypothesize that H
2
O
2
dilates HCAs through direct oxidation and activation of PKG-Iα leading to the opening of the large-conductance Ca
2+
-activated K
+
(BK
Ca
) channel and subsequent smooth muscle hyperpolarization.

Methods and Results:

Flow and H
2
O
2
induced pressure gradient/concentration-dependent vasodilation in isolated endothelium-intact and -denuded HCAs, respectively. The dilation was largely abolished by iberiotoxin, a BK
Ca
channel blocker. The PKG inhibitor Rp-8-Br-PET-cGMP also markedly inhibited flow- and H
2
O
2
-induced dilation, whereas the soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor ODQ had no effect. Treatment of coronary smooth muscle cells (SMCs) with H
2
O
2
elicited dose-dependent, reversible dimerization of PKG-Iα, and induced its translocation to the plasma membrane. Patch-clamp analysis identified a paxilline-sensitive single-channel K
+
current with a unitary conductance of 246-pS in freshly isolated coronary SMCs. Addition of H
2
O
2
into the bath solution significantly increased the probability of BK
Ca
single-channel openings recorded from cell-attached patches, an effect that was blocked by the PKG-Iα inhibitor DT-2. H
2
O
2
exhibited an attenuated stimulatory effect on BK
Ca
channel open probability in inside-out membrane patches.

Conclusions:

H
2
O
2
dilates HCAs through a novel mechanism involving protein dimerization and activation of PKG-Iα and subsequent opening of smooth muscle BK
Ca
channels.
Patients With Transient Ischemic Attack With ABCD
2
<4 Can Have Similar 90-Day Stroke Risk as Patients With Transient Ischemic Attack With ABCD
2
≥4
Authors: Amarenco Pierre , Labreuche Julien , Lavallée Philippa C.
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

It is unclear whether patients with transient ischemic attack with an ABCD
2
score <4 can be safely evaluated within the following week as recommended by some national guidelines rather than in emergency.

Methods—

A total of 1679 patients in the SOS-TIA prospective cohort had a definite or possible transient ischemic attack and had complete information on ABCD
2
score components. They were evaluated and treated as soon as possible in a transient ischemic attack clinic with round-the-clock access, 87% of them within 24 hours of the first call to medical attention. Criteria for emergency treatment were internal carotid or intracranial artery stenosis ≥50% or major cardiac source of embolism.

Results—

Primary end point was stroke at 90 days. The 90-day stroke rate (number of events/number of patients) was 3.4% (24/701) in patients with ABCD
2
score ≥4, 3.9% (7/180) in patients with ABCD
2
score <4 and criteria for emergency treatment, and 0.4% (3/798) in patients with ABCD
2
score <4 and no criteria for emergency treatment (
P
for between-group comparison <0.0001).

Conclusions—

When possible, patients with transient ischemic attack should be evaluated without delay regardless of ABCD
2
score because some with lower scores have treatable causes associated with higher short-term risks of stroke.
Nanoerythropoietin Is 10-Times More Effective Than Regular Erythropoietin in Neuroprotection in a Neonatal Rat Model of Hypoxia and Ischemia
Authors: Chen Han , Spagnoli Frédéric , Burris Michael , Rolland William B. , Fajilan Adriel , Dou Huanyu , Tang Jiping , Zhang John H.
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

Erythropoietin (EPO) has been demonstrated to possess significant neuroprotective effects in stroke. We determined if the nano-drug form of human recombinant EPO (PLGA-EPO nanoparticles [PLGA-EPO-NP]) can enhance neuroprotection at lower dosages versus human recombinant EPO (r-EPO).

Methods—

Established neonatal rat model of unilateral ischemic stroke was used to compare r-EPO, PLGA-EPO-NP and phosphate-buffered saline, given by daily intraperitoneal injections, followed by infarction volume and Rotarod Performance Test assessment.

Results—

PLGA-EPO-NP significantly reduced infarction volumes 72 hours after injury compared with the same concentrations of r-EPO. Functional deficits were significantly reduced by 300 U/kg PLGA-EPO-NP versus controls, with deficit attenuation apparent at significantly lower dosages of PLGA-EPO-NP versus r-EPO.

Conclusions—

PLGA-EPO-NP is neuroprotective and beneficial against deficits after brain ischemia, at significantly reduced dosages versus r-EPO.
Public Awareness of Stroke in Korea
Authors: Kim Young Seo , Park Sang-Soon , Bae Hee-Joon , Heo Ji Hoe , Kwon Sun U. , Lee Byung-Chul , Lee Seung-Hoon , Oh Chang Wan , Yoon Byung-Woo
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

To date, no large study has been conducted to investigate baseline stroke awareness within a nationally representative sample of the Korean population.

Methods—

A total of 1000 residents were randomly sampled according to regional demographic characteristics and were interviewed in person by trained interviewers. Structured, open-ended and close-ended questions were asked to assess stroke awareness.

Results—

Among the respondents, 62% reported at least 1 stroke symptom and 56% reported at least 1 risk factor for stroke in open-ended questioning. Multivariate analysis revealed that completion of ≥12 years of education was independently associated with knowledge of symptoms (OR, 1.527; 95% CI, 1.146–2.034) and risk factors (OR, 1.577; 95% CI, 1.175–2.115). Approximately 31% and 33% of respondents, respectively, had some knowledge of thrombolysis and the proper action (call emergency medical services). Compared with subjects aged 20 to 39 years, those aged 40 to 59 years were more knowledgeable about thrombolysis (OR, 1.433; 95% CI, 1.045–1.964) and proper action (OR, 2.291; 95% CI, 1.646–3.188). The major source of information about stroke was television (59%), and the most reliable source was the respondents' physicians (55%). Among respondents 20 to 39 years of age, the Internet (37%) was the second greatest source of information.

Conclusions—

Stroke awareness was suboptimal in Korea, especially among younger citizens and those with less education. To improve their knowledge, physicians should exert greater efforts to educate the public about stroke using mass media and the Internet.
Dehydration in Hospital-Admitted Stroke Patients
Authors: Rowat Anne , Graham Catriona , Dennis Martin
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to determine the frequency of dehydration, risk factors, and associations with outcomes at hospital discharge after stroke.

Methods—

We linked clinical data from stroke patients in 2 prospective hospital registers with routine blood urea and creatinine results. Dehydration was defined by a blood urea-to-creatinine ratio >80.

Results—

Of 2591 patients registered, 1606 (62%) were dehydrated at some point during their admission. Independent risk factors for dehydration included older age, female gender, total anterior circulation syndrome, and prescribed diuretics (all
P
<0.001). Patients with dehydration were significantly more likely be dead or dependent at hospital discharge than those without (χ
2
=170.5; degrees of freedom=2;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

Dehydration is common and associated with poor outcomes. Further work is required to establish if these associations are causal and if preventing or treating dehydration improves outcomes.
Does Helicopter Emergency Medical Service Transfer Offer Benefit to Patients With Stroke?
Authors: Olson Michael D. , Rabinstein Alejandro A.
Published: December 2011

Background and Purpose—

Helicopter transportation of patients with acute stroke who have received recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator is commonly considered the best option. We evaluated if transportation by helicopter can reduce complications and improve clinical outcomes in patients with acute stroke.

Methods—

We conducted a review of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke transferred to our hospital after intravenous thrombolysis initiated at a referral center.

Results—

A total of 122 patient transportations were analyzed, 94 by air and 28 by ground. Time from activation of the transport system to arrival at our hospital was significantly shorter with air transportation (53 versus 68 minutes,
P
=0.04). Two complications were noted in the air group and no complications were noted in the ground group (
P
=1.0). All other outcome measures were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions—

Air transfer of patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with thrombolysis does not seem to impart any benefit to patient outcomes when compared with ground transport. Therefore, ground transport should be considered for these patients unless they are being considered for emergency endovascular rescue therapy.
Quantification of the Impact of Nauru Island on ARM Measurements
Authors: Long Charles N. , McFarlane Sally A.
Published: December 2011

Nauru Island at times generates low clouds that impact low-level cloud statistics and downwelling shortwave radiation measurements made at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM) site. This study uses five years of Nauru data to quantify the island impact on the site measurements. The results indicate that the solar-heating-produced Nauru island effect occurs about 11% of the time during daylight hours. The island effect increases the 500–1000-m cloud base occurrence by 15%–20% when clouds occur, but because the island effect only occurs 11% of the time the overall increase in daylight low-cloud statistics is 2%, or 1% for 24-h statistics. In a similar way, the island effect produces a reduction of about 17% in the downwelling shortwave (SW) radiation across the daylight hours during the 11% of the time it occurs, an overall 2% daylight (or 1% for 24 h) average reduction. The island effect produces frequent positive downwelling SW cloud effects, in particular during the morning, which tend to somewhat mitigate the overall decrease in downwelling SW radiation that is due to clouds. This produces 17 W m−2 less daylight average SW cloud effect relative to non-island-effect times, in particular for the convectively suppressed regime that typifies island-effect-producing conditions. For long-term overall statistical studies such as model and satellite comparisons, the 2% daylight (or 1% per 24 h) average increase in low-level cloud occurrence and decrease in downwelling SW are not of large concern as long as researchers are aware of them. For shorter-term studies, however, or those that separate data by conditions such as convectively active/suppressed regimes, the Nauru island effect can have significant impacts.
Convective Momentum Transport by Rainbands within a Madden–Julian Oscillation in a Global Nonhydrostatic Model with Explicit Deep Convective Processes. Part I: Methodology and General Results
Authors: Miyakawa Tomoki , Takayabu Yukari N. , Nasuno Tomoe , Miura Hiroaki , Satoh Masaki , Moncrieff Mitchell W.
Published: December 2011

The convective momentum transport (CMT) properties of 13 215 rainbands within a Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) event simulated by a global nonhydrostatic model are examined. CMT vectors, which represent horizontal accelerations to the mean winds due to momentum flux convergences of deviation winds, are derived for each rainband. The CMT vectors are composited according to their locations relative to the MJO center.

While a similar number of rainbands are detected in the eastern and western halves of the MJO convective envelope, CMT vectors with large zonal components are most plentiful between 0° and 20° to the west of the MJO center. The zonal components of the CMT vectors exhibit a coherent directionality and have a well-organized three-layer structure: positive near the surface, negative in the low to midtroposphere, and positive in the upper troposphere. In the low to midtroposphere, where the longitudinal difference in the mean zonal wind across the MJO is 10 m s−1 on average, the net acceleration due to CMT contributes about −16 m s−1.

Possible roles of the CMT are proposed. First, the CMT delays the eastward progress of the low- to midtroposphere westerly wind, hence delaying the eastward migration of the convectively favorable region and reducing the propagation speed of the entire MJO. Second, the CMT tilts the MJO flow structure westward with height. Furthermore, the CMT counteracts the momentum transport due to large-scale flows that result from the tilted structure.
A Cloud-Resolving Simulation Study on the Merging Processes and Effects of Topography and Environmental Winds
Authors: Fu Danhong , Guo Xueliang
Published: December 2011

The cloud-resolving fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research Mesoscale Model (MM5) was used to study the cloud interactions and merging processes in the real case that generated a mesoscale convective system (MCS) on 23 August 2001 in the Beijing region. The merging processes can be grouped into three classes for the studied case: isolated nonprecipitating and precipitating cell merging, cloud cluster merging, and echo core or updraft core merging within cloud systems.

The mechanisms responsible for the multiscale merging processes were investigated. The merging process between nonprecipitating cells and precipitating cells and that between clusters is initiated by forming an upper-level cloud bridge between two adjacent clouds due to upper-level radial outflows in one vigorous cloud. The cloud bridge is further enhanced by a favorable middle- and upper-level pressure gradient force directed from one cloud to its adjacent cloud by accelerating cloud particles being horizontally transported from the cloud to its adjacent cloud and induce the redistribution of condensational heating, which destabilizes the air at and below the cloud bridge and forms a favorable low-level pressure structure for low-level water vapor convergence and merging process. The merging of echo cores within the mesoscale cloud happens because of the interactions between low-level cold outflows associated with the downdrafts formed by these cores.

Further sensitivity studies on the effects of topography and large-scale environmental winds suggest that the favorable pressure gradient force from one cloud to its adjacent cloud and stronger low-level water vapor convergence produced by the topographic lifting of large-scale low-level airflow determine further cloud merging processes over the mountain region.
Size and Strength of Tropical Cyclones as Inferred from QuikSCAT Data
Authors: Chan Kelvin T. F. , Chan Johnny C. L.
Published: December 2011

A comprehensive statistical climatology of the size and strength of the tropical cyclones (TCs) occurring over the western North Pacific (WNP; including the South China Sea) and the North Atlantic (NA; including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea) between 1999 and 2009 is constructed based on Quick Scatterometer (QuikSCAT) data. The size and strength of a TC are defined, respectively, as the azimuthally averaged radius of 17 m s−1 of ocean-surface winds (R17) and the azimuthally averaged tangential wind within 1°–2.5°-latitude radius from the TC center (outer-core wind strength, OCS).

The mean TC size and strength are found to be 2.13° latitude and 19.6 m s−1, respectively, in the WNP, and 1.83° latitude and 18.7 m s−1 in the NA. While the correlation between size and strength is strong (r ≈ 0.9), that between intensity and either size or strength is weak.

Seasonally, midsummer (July) and late-season (October) TCs are significantly larger in the WNP, while the mean size is largest in September in the NA. The percentage frequency of TCs having large size or high strength is also found to vary spatially and seasonally. In addition, the interannual variation of TC size and strength in the WNP correlate significantly with the TC lifetimes and the effect of El Niño over the WNP. TC lifetime and seasonal subtropical ridge activities are shown to be potential factors that affect TC size and strength.
Effect of Routine Mental Health Screening in a Low-Resource Pediatric Primary Care Population
Authors: Berger-Jenkins Evelyn , McCord Mary , Gallagher Trish , Olfson Mark
Published: December 2011

Objective. Despite evidence for its feasibility, the usage of mental health screening in primary care practices with overburdened providers and few referral options remains unclear. This study explores the effects of routine screening on mental health problem identification and management in a low-resource setting. Methods. Medical records of 5 to 12 year-old children presenting for well visits before and after screening was implemented were reviewed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore associations between study period and identification/management practices. Changes in the number of visits and wait times for a co-located referral service were assessed post hoc. Results. Parents disclosed more mental health problems, and providers initiated more workups but referred fewer patients after screening was implemented. The proportion of new visits and wait times for the referral service did not change. Conclusions. Even in low-resource settings, screening may facilitate parental disclosure and increase clinical attention to mental health problems without overburdening referral services.
Validation of a Modified Pediatric Early Warning System Score
Authors: Skaletzky Sharon M. , Raszynski Andre , Totapally Balagangadhar R.
Published: December 2011

The Pediatric Early Warning System (PEWS) score may be useful for detection of deterioration in clinical condition. In this retrospective study, the cases were patients transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), and controls were those not transferred to the PICU. The maximum PEWS score in both groups were analyzed using Mann–Whitney U test and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). The study population included 100 cases and 250 controls. There was no difference in the age of cases and controls (6.3 vs 6.3 years). The length of hospital stay (18.09 ± 32 vs 3.93 ± 2.9 days; P < .001) and the maximum PEWS score (2.95 ± 1.5 vs 1.4 ± 0.8) were significantly higher for the cases ( P < .0001). The PEWS score area under the ROC was 0.81 (95% confidence interval = 0.75-0.86). The sensitivity and specificity for a score 2.5 were 62% and 89%, respectively. The use of the modified PEWS score can help identify patients on wards who are at risk for deterioration.
Henry Noel Brailsford’s Radical International Relations Theory
Authors: Lamb Peter
Published: December 2011

Compared with some of his contemporaries Brailsford is relatively neglected today. He offered incisive analysis of the international relations of his times, discussing political and economic aspects together. He grounded his contributions upon a view of human nature that drew on the ideas of Godwin, Shelley and Condorcet. A cosmopolitan, socialist political philosophy also underpinned his work. Brailsford was sharply critical of balance-of-power theory, which served to veil the actual intentions of statesman and the capitalist entrepreneurs whose policies they benefited. He was also critical, like Laski, of sovereignty theory which masked the dominance of capitalist interests in the modern state and international system. Over several decades these aspects of his work contributed to his proposals for a radical league of nations. His work will be of interest to IR scholars today.
Alternative diagnostic method applied on marine diesel engines having limited monitoring susceptibility
Authors: Korczewski Zbigniew , Zacharewicz Marcin
Published: December 2011

The paper presents a method of technical state evaluation of working spaces of a marine diesel engine at the limited control susceptibility. The method foresees making a diagnosis of the engine’s working spaces on the basis of measurements of the exhaust gas pressure in the channels connecting engine cylinders with the turbocharger’s turbine. Diagnostic measurements are carried out at representative (comparative) steady loads depending on floating conditions. In the beginning of the article, the research objects are characterized, i.e. a Zviezda marine main engine M401 type and Detroit Diesel marine auxiliary engine DDA149TI type. Then, diagnostic measures used to identify the condition of the considered engines are defined. Moreover, selected results of diagnostic tests carried out on the engines in current operation on warships in the Polish Navy are demonstrated. The tested diagnostic classifiers confirmed that the elaborated method could be successfully applied for the engines not equipped with indicator valves.
Managing records as a strategic resource in the government ministries of Tanzania
Authors: Ndenje-Sichalwe Esther , Ngulube Patrick , Stilwell Christine
Published: December 2011

In Tanzania, the Records and Archives Management Act of 2002 established the Records and Archives Management Department (RAMD) to provide for the proper administration and better management of public records and archives throughout their life cycle. This article is based on findings from an ongoing study of the government ministries of Tanzania which examines the current state of records management practices in fostering accountability in the implementation of the Public Service Reform Programme (PSRP) in Tanzania. A total of 120 registry personnel, 24 senior ministerial officials and National Archives personnel were involved in the study. The study established that although the introduction of the PSRP had resulted in some efforts in reforming the records management practices in the government ministries, records in the government ministries were not managed a strategic resource. The findings of the study revealed that current records management practices in the government ministries were accorded low priority. The absence of specific budgets allocated to registry sections, lack of support from senior officers, lack of records management policies and low levels of training for registry personnel were among the records management problems in the government ministries. Further, records surveys were conducted irregularly and the majority of government registries lacked records retention and disposition schedules which led to the congestion of records which were also disorganized and poorly managed. In order to manage records as a strategic resource, the article recommends the restructuring of existing records management systems.
Disaster preparedness and the strategic management of public records in South Africa: guarding against collective cultural amnesia
Authors: Ngulube Patrick , Modisane Cynthia Kefilwe , Mnkeni-Saurombe Nampombe
Published: December 2011

Archives collect and manage traces of the memory of nations. All their efforts will come to naught if all those memories are lost due to disasters. As other archivists in the world, South African archivists and records managers as temporary guardians of the national heritage owe it to the future generations that the heritage is preserved. Disaster management should be part and parcel of the strategy to preserve archives for the present and future generations because emergency preparedness has the possibility of reducing the effects of disaster and ensuring business continuity. This article presents the findings of an assessment of disaster management activities in public archives of South Africa. A quantitative approach with a triangulation of data collection methods was used for the study. The findings revealed that disaster management did not feature prominently on their agenda as evidenced by a lack of written disaster management plans and strategies. It was concluded that without disaster plans public archival institutions are unable to preserve the South African heritage and guard against collective cultural amnesia. Among the recommendations is that South African archivists should ensure that the national documentary heritage is preserved through initiating disaster management activities nationwide.
Diffusion and adoption of ICTs in selected government departments in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Mbatha Blessing T. , Ocholla Dennis N. , Roux Jerry Le
Published: December 2011

This study reports on the use, types, and availability of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in four government departments in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, in the context of work productivity and creativity. Roger’s Diffusion of Innovations Theory was used to inform the study in an attempt to understand the diffusion and use of modern ICTs in the government departments under investigation. Through a survey, government departments that are considered to be central to service delivery were targeted. Due to the dispersed nature of the public sector in South Africa, the study was confined to government departments in KwaZulu-Natal. The study used multistage probability sampling to select the elements for the survey method. The sample size for the study was 260 managers. One hundred and fifty-two questionnaires were completed and returned. The data collected was analyzed using thematic categorization and tabulation and the findings presented descriptively. The results indicate that a variety of ICTs have been adopted in the sector for interaction and communication. The respondents' level of interaction with some of the ICTs was very high, while the use of ICTs such as video conferencing, television and radio was very poor. The most common obstacles to the effective use of ICTs in government departments were found to be lack of skills or competence, the lack of an ICT policy, and the lack of proper planning for the adoption and diffusion of ICTs in the sector. Recommendations for the way forward are provided.
The investment project pipeline: cost escalation, lead time, success, failure and speed
Authors: Clements Kenneth W , Si Jiawei
Published: December 2011

As they involve expectations about the future and long lead times for planning and construction, the evolution of investment projects is usually complex and volatile. This paper analyses an important aspect of this volatility by studying the nature of the investment process, from the initial bright idea to the final construction and operational phase of a project. We refer to this process as the ‘project pipeline’. Using a rich source of information on recent Australian resource development projects, an index-number approach is employed to measure the escalation of costs of projects in the pipeline and the time spent there (the lead time). The determinants of the probability of ultimate success of projects is analysed with a binary choice model. Finally, a Markov chain approach is used to model the transitions of projects from one stage in the pipeline to the next, and to examine the implications of regulatory reform that have the effect of speeding up the flow of projects.
Genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of storax in vitro
Authors: Karadeniz Bulent , Ulker Zeynep , Alpsoy Lokman
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the storax balsam, which is a kind of sweet gum obtained from the Liquidambar orientalis Mill trees, on cell viability, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity in human lymphocyte in vitro. We studied the genotoxic effects of the extract of storax balsam (SE) using sister chromatid exchange (SCE) test system. Also the cytotoxic and inhibitory effects on cell proliferation of SE were evaluated using lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay and cell proliferation (WST-1) assay. The SCE frequency was increased when the cells were treated with 1.6 and 4.0 µg/mL SE concentrations ( p < 0.05). Moreover, treatment of the cells with the same concentrations significantly depleted the cell number at 24th and 48th hours and elevated the LDH levels ( p < 0.05) at 48th hour. These results suggest that SE can be used as an alternative antibacterial and antipathogenic agent due to its cytotoxic and genotoxic effects.
Older Women’s Clothing Fit and Style Concerns and Their Attitudes Toward the Use of 3D Body Scanning
Authors: Lee Young-A , Damhorst Mary Lynn , Lee Min-Sun , Kozar Joy M. , Martin Peter
Published: December 2011

The research explores older women's clothing fit and style concerns and their attitudes toward 3D body scanning. A film of the 3D body scanning process was developed as an information source and shown to groups of older women prior to collecting survey and focus group data in 10 different community centers and living facilities in four Midwestern U.S. states. Clothing fit was the most important consideration to participants in making apparel purchasing decisions. Participants addressed the difficulty in finding clothing that fits their body shapes and styles that are appropriate for the aging body. Participants' preferences for using 3D body scanning in the future were also examined. Focus group participants expressed greatest willingness to use 3D body scanning for pattern development services. Future research needs to address older consumer acceptance of emerging technology applications for clothing customization and selection.
Adaptive wavelet filtering for bearing monitoring based on block bootstrapping and white noise test
Authors: Wenliao Du , Jin Yuan , Yanming Li , Chengliang Liu
Published: December 2011

This study describes a novel scheme of adaptive wavelet filtering for bearing monitoring based on block bootstrapping and white noise test. The scheme consists of three main steps. First, the vibration signal is decomposed into wavelet domain, and the correlations between the wavelet coefficients are measured by lag autocorrelations. Second, according to the intensity of correlation at each level, either the block bootstrapping or general bootstrapping procedure is adopted to produce new pseudo-samples from the original wavelet coefficient series. Finally, as actual signal and noise have different translating characters along the levels in wavelet domain, the optimal decomposition level is achieved through whitening test on the wavelet coefficients, and the accuracy of the test is also obtained by the pseudo-samples. The simulation and experimental results show that the proposed procedure can be used to adaptively determine the optimal decomposition level and obtain superior filtering capability.
Attributes of two-dimensional magnetic self-assembly
Authors: Miyashita Shuhei , Pfeifer Rolf
Published: December 2011

Self-assembly is a phenomenon broadly observed in nature where a vast number of various molecules spontaneously synthesize complex structures. In this article, prompted by the need for the realization of highly autonomous self-assembly systems that employ magnetism as a driving force, we discuss fundamental issues associated with magnetically driven self-assembly systems. We first introduce some examples from our case studies, in which the models all subscribe to a distributed approach, and thus lack central control. Then we categorize them by their type of magnetic attachment. The issues discussed include several fundamental properties, such as the effect of morphology, stochasticity, the difference between two-dimensional models and three-dimensional models, emergence, allostericity, and parallelism. The conclusions obtained support our stance that the appropriate morphology lightens the control cost for the assembly, providing primal but engaging instances of magnetic self-assembly systems that warrant further study.
Parasitic accountability
Authors: Neyland Daniel
Published: December 2011

This article investigates what generates and sustains the centrality of accountability as an enduring motif of organizations and contemporary forms of organizing. The article uses a study of malaria interventions to explore the means through which accountability endures. First, the article engages with the burgeoning literature on accountability to explore the ways in which the continuing prominence of accountability is explained. Second, the article turns attention to interventions in malaria and specifically the production of accounts and distributions of accountability in this field. It will be argued that one means through which accountability has endured is through a heretofore un-discussed parasitism. Third, the contribution that parasitism can make to the academic literature on accounts and accountability will be considered. The article will suggest that it is the very features of accounts and distributions of accountability that enable such parasitism and that accountability becomes parasitic upon the organizational form.
From aesthetes to reporters: The paradigm shift in arts journalism in Finland
Authors: Hellman Heikki , Jaakkola Maarit
Published: December 2011

The crisis of cultural journalism has recently been a topical issue in many countries. In Finland, too, it has been claimed that arts pages, previously dominated by aesthetically oriented critics, have been shrinking and become more news oriented and entertaining. In this article, we explore the change of structures, values and ideals of arts reporting as friction between two opposing paradigms, the aesthetic and the journalistic, and analyse how the changes are reflected in the contents of the cultural pages and in the self-image of arts journalists. The research data of this case study consist of the arts pages of the biggest national newspaper, Helsingin Sanomat, and of various internal planning documents related to its management. In addition to a longitudinal content analysis, we also employed theme interviews with and observation of cultural journalists. The results show a change of paradigm in arts journalism, with the consequence that the previously autonomous department has become an inseparable part of the news organization, increasingly adapted to meet the challenges of news journalism.
Storytelling as a Model of Conversation for People With Dementia and Caregivers
Authors: Fels Deborah I. , Astell Arlene J.
Published: December 2011

Storytelling is an important method of communication at all stages of life. Sharing narratives about lived events and experiences provides topics of conversation and opportunities for connecting with other people. In this article, we apply a conventional model of storytelling to the verbal reminiscences of older people with a dementia diagnosis. Their stories retain the conventional structure, suggesting that storytelling, which is an enjoyable and engaging social activity, can provide a conversation model for people with dementia.
Fenestrated Endograft Repair of Suprarenal Aortic Patch Aneurysm in a Patient With Marfan Syndrome
Authors: Boersma Doeke , Kloppenburg Geoffrey T. L. , Vos Jan Albert , Heuvel Danyel van den , Vries Jean-Paul P. M. de
Published: December 2011

We present a case of a 4-fenestrated endograft repair of a suprarenal aortic patch aneurysm as useful alternative for complex open reoperation in a patient with Marfan syndrome.
P53 Gene Therapy Modulates Signal Transduction in the Apoptotic and Cell Cycle Pathways Downregulating Neointimal Hyperplasia
Authors: Jacob Theresa , Hingorani Anil , Ascher Enrico
Published: December 2011

Purpose: To investigate the molecular mechanisms that lead to inhibition of intimal hyperplasia (IH) following p53 gene therapy. Methods: In vivo p53 gene transfer to balloon injured rat carotid arteries was performed by utilizing adenovirus. The relationship between p53, p21, retinoblastoma protein (Rb), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bax, and Bcl-x was examined by immunohistochemistry. Expression of cyclin D1, Fas/CD95, and poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase (PARP) was determined. Results: Our data indicate increased expression of p53 in the nuclei of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in the media ( P < .01) compared with the controls. In the treated animals, Bax and Bcl-x, p21, and Rb were significantly upregulated ( P < .01). Immunoreactivity to Bcl-2 was observed only in the neointima of untreated groups at 14 days. An increased presence of Fas and decreased expression of PARP was observed in the cytoplasm of the VSMCs of p53-treated animals. Conclusions: P53 gene transfer activated a battery of downstream effector genes whose products are directly involved in cell cycle arrest, DNA repair, and apoptosis.
Repositioning of Surgically Placed Peritoneovenous Shunt Catheter by Forming “In Situ” Loop Snare
Authors: Aal Ahmed Kamel Abdel , Soni Jayesh , Saddekni Souheil , Hamed Maysoon F. , Dubay Derek A.
Published: December 2011

We describe a technique that allows repositioning of malfunctioning peritoneovenous shunt (PVS) catheters. We report a 67-year-old female with refractory ascites, who presented with malfunctioning PVS. The catheter tip was outside the superior vena cava (SVC), possibly in a small mediastinal vein, which makes its tip inaccessible to regular snares and retrieval devices. We used “in situ” loop snare technique to reposition the tip of the catheter into the inferior vena cava (IVC). In situ loop snare technique can be used to reposition malfunctioning PVS catheters caused by a kink or by malposition of its tip. The technique avoids surgical or interventional replacement of these catheters. This technique can be also used for retrieval of foreign body fragments that have no free ends and, therefore, cannot be captured by a snare or other retrieval devices.
Successful Extra-Anatomical Recanalization of Occluded Superficial Femoral Arteries Using the Outback Device—A Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Kirk James , Wilson Richard , Kovacs Flora , Tennant William , Braithwaite Bruce , Habib Said
Published: December 2011

Introduction: We report 2 cases where the Outback catheter facilitated extra-anatomical bypass after vessel perforation during attempted subintimal vessel dissection. Report: Attempted subintimal angioplasty of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) resulted in vessel perforation in 2 patients with chronic SFA occlusion and limb ischemia. Due to the lack of other endovascular or surgical options, the Outback catheter was used to reenter the patent lumen distal to the perforation. A stent graft was then deployed from proximal to the perforation to beyond the reentry point with successful outcomes. Discussion: Although the reentry devices are typically used to enter the lumen from the subintimal plane, this novel technique involves using the Outback catheter to enter from the extravascular compartment and facilitate bypass of the SFA occlusion via an extra-anatomical route. This novel technique can be used to restore in-line blood flow when attempted endovascular revascularization failed due to vessel perforation.
Occlusion of the Internal Iliac Artery Prior EVAR
Authors: Libicher Martin , Pavlidis Daphne , Bangard Christopher , Gawenda Michael
Published: December 2011

Purpose: We compared occlusion of the internal iliac artery (IIA) using coils or the Amplatzer vascular plug (AVP) II prior to endovascular aortic aneurysm repair. Materials and Methods: Occlusion of the IIA was performed in 32 patients (aged 74 ± 8 years) using coils (N = 17) or the AVP II (N = 15). We retrospectively compared procedural data, initial success, and clinical outcome in a 12-month follow-up. Results: Occlusion was successful in all patients without detection of an endoleak after 12 months. Procedure time and fluoroscopy time for coils versus plugs were 77 ± 35 versus 43 ± 13 minutes and 36 ± 19 versus 18 ± 8 minutes, respectively ( P < .003). Incidence of initial buttock claudication (BC) for coils versus plugs was 47% versus 27% and was significantly more severe after coil occlusion ( P = .03). After a 12-month follow-up, 2 patients of each group reported of mild BC. Conclusion: Occlusion of the IIA is safe and effective using coils or plugs. Initial BC is significantly more severe when coils are used, but after a 12-month follow-up, there is no significant difference. Using a plug is associated with a significant reduction of procedure time and radiation exposure.
Simulation and Analysis of Mission Capability Degrades Due to Supply for the B-1 Bomber
Authors: Parson Carl R , Miller John O , Weir Jeffery D
Published: December 2011

This research develops a discrete event simulation to investigate factors that affect key Air Force (AF) metrics for gauging the health of the AF spares supply chain and the impact on maintaining the mission capability of individual weapon systems. We focus on the unscheduled maintenance actions at a single air base for a single weapon system – the B-1 Bomber. A notional fleet of 16 aircraft at a single air base is modeled based on historical supply and maintenance data. To identify and quantify the effects of various factors, an experimental design is used for analyzing the output of our high-level discrete event simulation. This exploration shows we successfully capture several factors that significantly impact the key metrics used for the B-1 and have the potential to significantly increase mission capability for this weapon system.
Receptor mechanisms of antipsychotic drug action in bipolar disorder – focus on asenapine
Authors: Reynolds Gavin P
Published: December 2011

The atypical antipsychotic drugs are considered a first-line treatment for mania in bipolar disorder with many having a proven superiority to the classical mood stabilisers. This review addresses the pharmacological mechanisms underlying this therapeutic efficacy, as well as those mechanisms considered responsible for the adverse effects of antipsychotic drugs, with a particular focus on the recently introduced asenapine.

The high efficacy in bipolar mania of haloperidol, a relatively selective dopamine D2-like receptor antagonist, indicates that the one common receptor mechanism underlying antipsychotic effects on mania is antagonism at the D2 receptor. Serotonin receptors are implicated in antidepressant response, and relief of depressed mood in mixed states is likely to involve drug effects at one, or more likely several interacting, serotonin receptors. Asenapine shows a unique breadth of action at these sites, with potential effects at clinical doses at 5HT1A, 1B, 2A, 2C, 6 and 7 receptors. Antagonism at alpha2 adrenoceptors may also be involved.

Adverse effects include those classically associated with dopamine D2 receptor blockade, the extrapyramidal side effects (EPS), and which are relatively diminished in the atypical (in comparison with the conventional) antipsychotics. A variety of protective mechanisms against EPS associated with different drugs include low D2 affinity, D2 partial agonism, high 5-HT2A and 2C antagonism. Similar effects at the D2 and 5-HT2C receptors may underlie the low propensity for hyperprolactinaemia of the atypicals, although the strong prolactin-elevating effect of risperidone reflects its relatively high blood/brain concentration ratio, a consequence of it being a substrate for the p-glycoprotein pump. Weight gain is a further concern of antipsychotic treatment of bipolar disorder which is particularly severe with olanzapine. Histamine H1, alpha1 adrenergic and particularly 5-HT2C receptors are implicated in this effect, although the lower propensity for weight gain shown by asenapine which, like olanzapine, binds to these receptors, indicates that other protective receptor mechanisms, or subtle differences in the 5-HT2C receptor-mediated effects, may be important. Of other peripheral and central effects, the pharmacological basis of sedation (H1 receptors) and postural hypotension (alpha1 adrenoceptors) are rather better understood.

The relative benefits of atypical antipsychotics like asenapine can be understood from their receptor pharmacology, and this understanding is key to the future development of improved treatment for bipolar disorder.
Effects of tetrahydrouridine on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oral decitabine
Authors: Lavelle Donald , Vaitkus Kestis , Ling Yonghua , Ruiz Maria A. , Mahfouz Reda , Ng Kwok Peng , Negrotto Soledad , Smith Nicola , Terse Pramod , Engelke Kory J. , Covey Joseph , Chan Kenneth K. , DeSimone Joseph , Saunthararajah Yogen
Published: December 2011

The deoxycytidine analog decitabine (DAC) can deplete DNA methyl-transferase 1 (DNMT1) and thereby modify cellular epigenetics, gene expression, and differentiation. However, a barrier to efficacious and accessible DNMT1-targeted therapy is cytidine deaminase, an enzyme highly expressed in the intestine and liver that rapidly metabolizes DAC into inactive uridine counterparts, severely limiting exposure time and oral bioavailability. In the present study, the effects of tetrahydrouridine (THU), a competitive inhibitor of cytidine deaminase, on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oral DAC were evaluated in mice and nonhuman primates. Oral administration of THU before oral DAC extended DAC absorption time and widened the concentration-time profile, increasing the exposure time for S-phase–specific depletion of DNMT1 without the high peak DAC levels that can cause DNA damage and cytotoxicity. THU also decreased interindividual variability in pharmacokinetics seen with DAC alone. One potential clinical application of DNMT1-targeted therapy is to increase fetal hemoglobin and treat hemoglobinopathy. Oral THU-DAC at a dose that would produce peak DAC concentrations of less than 0.2μM administered 2×/wk for 8 weeks to nonhuman primates was not myelotoxic, hypomethylated DNA in the γ-globin gene promoter, and produced large cumulative increases in fetal hemoglobin. Combining oral THU with oral DAC changes DAC pharmacology in a manner that may facilitate accessible noncytotoxic DNMT1-targeted therapy.