bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress in the collection of Geogas in China
Authors: Wang Ming-qi , Gao Yu-yan , Liu Ying-han
Published: April 2008

Geogas surveys have been carried out in China for more than 15 years. Although much valuable experience has been obtained from these studies, little progress (until recently) has been made in understanding the mechanisms involved and in testing procedures. One of the major challenges is to design a collector for the metals in Geogas effectively, using the right medium for complete sorption, without knowing their actual forms. Several absorbers have been tested in China. Almost all solid collectors used in Geogas testing contain variable quantities of metals which are difficult to remove chemically or physically. Thus some of the published data related to Geogas surveys should be re-evaluated. Newly developed liquid collectors, used since 1999, improve the accuracy of the Geogas data because they are low in blank levels, and their use negates the need for time-consuming digestion, the aqueous medium being easily analysed by inductively coupled plasma -mass spectrometry. With this refinement in collectors, the recent Geogas anomalies obtained in soils over buried mineralization attest to the presence of metals within soil gas and confirm the validity of this technique.
Coordinated phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 by glycogen synthase kinase-3 and protein kinase CβII in the diabetic fat tissue
Authors: Liberman Ziva , Plotkin Batya , Tennenbaum Tamar , Eldar-Finkelman Hagit
Published: April 2008

Serine/threonine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) is an important negative modulator of insulin signaling. Previously, we showed that glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) phosphorylates IRS-1 at Ser332. However, the fact that GSK-3 requires prephosphorylation of its substrates suggested that Ser336on IRS-1 was the “priming” site phosphorylated by an as yet unknown protein kinase. Here, we sought to identify this “priming kinase” and to examine the phosphorylation of IRS-1 at Ser336and Ser332in physiologically relevant animal models. Of several stimulators, only the PKC activator phorbol ester PMA enhanced IRS-1 phosphorylation at Ser336. Treatment with selective PKC inhibitors prevented this PMA effect and suggested that a conventional PKC was the priming kinase. Overexpression of PKCα or PKCβII isoforms in cells enhanced IRS-1 phosphorylation at Ser336and Ser332, and in vitro kinase assays verified that these two kinases directly phosphorylated IRS-1 at Ser336. The expression level and activation state of PKCβII, but not PKCα, were remarkably elevated in the fat tissues of diabetic ob/ob mice and in high-fat diet-fed mice compared with that from lean animals. Elevated levels of PKCβII were also associated with enhanced phosphorylation of IRS-1 at Ser336/332and elevated activity of GSK-3β. Finally, adenoviral mediated expression of PKCβII in adipocytes enhancedphosphorylation of IRS-1 at Ser336. Taken together, our results suggest that IRS-1 is sequentially phosphorylated by PKCβII and GSK-3 at Ser336and Ser332. Furthermore, these data provide evidence for the physiological relevance of these phosphorylation events in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance in fat tissue.
Protein coingestion stimulates muscle protein synthesis during resistance-type exercise
Authors: Beelen Milou , Koopman René , Gijsen Annemie P. , Vandereyt Hanne , Kies Arie K. , Kuipers Harm , Saris Wim H. M. , van Loon Luc J. C.
Published: April 2008

In contrast to the effect of nutritional intervention on postexercise muscle protein synthesis, little is known about the potential to modulate protein synthesis during exercise. This study investigates the effect of protein coingestion with carbohydrate on muscle protein synthesis during resistance-type exercise. Ten healthy males were studied in the evening after they consumed a standardized diet throughout the day. Subjects participated in two experiments in which they ingested either carbohydrate or carbohydrate with protein during a 2-h resistance exercise session. Subjects received a bolus of test drink before and every 15 min during exercise, providing 0.15 g·kg−1·h−1 carbohydrate with (CHO + PRO) or without (CHO) 0.15 g·kg−1·h−1 protein hydrolysate. Continuous intravenous infusions with l-[ ring-13C6]phenylalanine and l-[ ring-2H2]tyrosine were applied, and blood and muscle biopsies were collected to assess whole body and muscle protein synthesis rates during exercise. Protein coingestion lowered whole body protein breakdown rates by 8.4 ± 3.6% ( P = 0.066), compared with the ingestion of carbohydrate only, and augmented protein oxidation and synthesis rates by 77 ± 17 and 33 ± 3%, respectively ( P < 0.01). As a consequence, whole body net protein balance was negative in CHO, whereas a positive net balance was achieved after the CHO + PRO treatment (−4.4 ± 0.3 vs. 16.3 ± 0.4 μmol phenylalanine·kg−1·h−1, respectively; P < 0.01). In accordance, mixed muscle protein fractional synthetic rate was 49 ± 22% higher after protein coingestion (0.088 ± 0.012 and 0.060 ± 0.004%/h in CHO + PRO vs. CHO treatment, respectively; P < 0.05). We conclude that, even in a fed state, protein coingestion stimulates whole body and muscle protein synthesis rates during resistance-type exercise.
Adipose tissue inflammation and liver fat in patients with highly active antiretroviral therapy-associated lipodystrophy
Authors: Sevastianova Ksenia , Sutinen Jussi , Kannisto Katja , Hamsten Anders , Ristola Matti , Yki-Järvinen Hannele
Published: April 2008

In this cross-sectional study, we sought to determine whether gene expression of macrophage markers and inflammatory chemokines in lipoatrophic subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue and liver fat content are increased and interrelated in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1-positive, highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)-treated patients with lipodystrophy (HAART+LD+; n = 27) compared with those without (HAART+LD−; n = 13). The study groups were comparable with respect to age, gender, and body mass index. The HAART+LD+ group had twofold more intra-abdominal ( P = 0.01) and 1.5-fold less subcutaneous ( P = 0.091) fat than the HAART+LD− group. As we have reported previously, liver fat was 10-fold higher in the HAART+LD+ compared with the HAART+LD− group ( P = 0.00003). Inflammatory gene expression was increased in HAART-lipodystrophy: CD68 4.5-fold ( P = 0.000013), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α 2-fold ( P = 0.0094), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand (CCL) 2 2.5-fold ( P = 0.0024), CCL3 7-fold ( P = 0.0000017), integrin αM (ITGAM) 3-fold ( P = 0.00067), epidermal growth factor-like module containing, mucin-like, hormone receptor-like (EMR)1 2.5-fold ( P = 0.0038), and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain (ADAM)8 3.5-fold ( P = 0.00057) higher in the HAART+LD+ compared with the HAART+LD− group. mRNA concentration of CD68 ( r = 0.37, P = 0.019), ITGAM ( r = 0.35, P = 0.025), CCL2 ( r = 0.39, P = 0.012), and CCL3 ( r = 0.54, P = 0.0003) correlated with liver fat content. In conclusion, gene expression of markers of macrophage infiltration and adipose tissue inflammation is increased in lipoatrophic subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue of patients with HAART-associated lipodystrophy compared with those without. CD68, ITGAM, CCL2, and CCL3 expression is significantly associated with accumulation of liver fat.
Targeted enhancement of oleoylethanolamide production in proximal small intestine induces across-meal satiety in rats
Authors: Fu Jin , Kim Janet , Oveisi Fariba , Astarita Giuseppe , Piomelli Daniele
Published: April 2008

Pharmacological administration of the natural lipid amide, oleoylethanolamide (OEA), inhibits food intake in free-feeding rodents by prolonging latency to feed and postmeal interval. This anorexic effect is mediated by activation of type-α peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR-α). Food intake stimulates mucosal cells in duodenum and jejunum to generate OEA, suggesting that this lipid-derived messenger may act as a local satiety hormone. As a test of this hypothesis, here, we examined whether targeted enhancement of OEA production in the small intestine affects feeding behavior in rats. We constructed an adenoviral vector (Ad-NPLD) that directs overexpression of the enzyme N-acylphosphatidylethanolamine (NAPE)-phospholipase D (PLD), which catalyzes the hydrolysis of NAPE to generate OEA. Intraduodenal injection of the Ad-NPLD vector resulted in a time-dependent increase in NAPE-PLD expression and OEA production, which was restricted to the proximal small intestine. No such effect was observed after administration of a control adenoviral vector. Enhanced OEA production in Ad-NPLD-injected animals was temporally associated with increased expression of two PPAR-α target genes (PPAR-α and CD36) and with decreased food intake. The hypophagic phenotype of Ad-NPLD-injected rats was attributable to increase feeding latency and postmeal interval, rather than decreased meal size. The results suggest that localized changes in OEA production in the small intestine, such as those produced by food intake, are sufficient to induce in rats a state of across-meal satiety similar to that elicited by systemic administration of exogenous OEA.
Dynamic transcriptomic response to acute hypertension in the nucleus tractus solitarius
Authors: Khan Rishi L. , Vadigepalli Rajanikanth , McDonald Mary K. , Rogers Robert F. , Gao Guang R. , Schwaber James S.
Published: April 2008

Baroreceptor afferents project to the cardiovascular region of the nucleus tractus solitarius (cvNTS), and their cvNTS target neurons may play a role in governing the sensitivity and operating range of the arterial baroreceptor reflex (baroreflexes). Recent studies have shown differential gene and protein expression in the cvNTS in response to changed arterial pressure. However, the extent of these responses is unknown. Therefore, we collected differential global gene expression data in a time series following acute hypertension in awake, freely moving rats. To acquire statistically significant results and place them in functional context, we overcame several quality control requirements and developed novel analytical approaches. The physiologically new findings from the study are that acute hypertension causes very extensive, time-varying gene regulatory changes, many involving neuronal function-specific genes and systems of genes. We use standard genomic analysis methods to manage the large data sets and to develop results such as heat maps to examine patterns and clusters in the gene regulation. We used the Gene Ontology categories to provide functional context. To place our findings in the context of the relevant literature, we developed two graphical representations of the networks implicated, linking receptors and channels to signaling pathways. The results point to the multivariate complexity of the response and implicate a group of receptors as candidates for mediating nucleus tractus solitarius baroreflex function in hypertension by identifying concurrent upregulation of receptor genes. We were able to make transcription factor binding predictions and record dysregulation of heart rate correlated with the transcriptional response.
Molecular networks in Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension based on transcriptome analysis of a panel of consomic rats
Authors: Liang Mingyu , Lee Norman H. , Wang Hongying , Greene Andrew S. , Kwitek Anne E. , Kaldunski Mary L. , Luu Truong V. , Frank Bryan C. , Bugenhagen Scott , Jacob Howard J. , Cowley Allen W.
Published: April 2008

The Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) rat is a widely used model of human salt-sensitive hypertension and renal injury. We studied the molecular networks that underlie the complex disease phenotypes in the SS model, using a design that involved two consomic rat strains that were protected from salt-induced hypertension and one that was not protected. Substitution of Brown Norway (BN) chromosome 13 or 18, but not 20, into the SS genome was found to significantly attenuate salt-induced hypertension and albuminuria. Gene expression profiles were examined in the kidneys of SS and consomic SS-13BN, SS-18BN, and SS-20BN rats with a total of 240 cDNA microarrays. The substituted chromosome was overrepresented in genes differentially expressed between a consomic strain and SS rats on a 0.4% salt diet. F5, Serpinc1, Slc19a2, and genes represented by three other expressed sequence tags (ESTs), which are located on chromosome 13, were found to be differentially expressed between SS-13BN and all other strains examined. Likewise, Acaa2, B4galt6, Colec12, Hsd17b4, and five other ESTs located on chromosome 18 exhibited expression patterns unique to SS-18BN. On exposure to a 4% salt diet, there were 184 ESTs in the renal cortex and 346 in the renal medulla for which SS-13BN and SS-18BN shared one expression pattern, while SS and SS-20BN shared another, mirroring the phenotypic segregation among the four strains. Molecular networks that might contribute to the development of Dahl salt-sensitive hypertension and albuminuria were constructed with an approach that merged biological knowledge-driven analysis and data-driven Bayesian probabilistic analysis.
Transcriptional profile of right ventricular tissue during acute pulmonary embolism in rats
Authors: Zagorski John , Sanapareddy Nina , Gellar Michael A. , Kline Jeffrey A. , Watts John A.
Published: April 2008

Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death in the United States. Moderate to severe PE can cause pulmonary arterial hypertension (PH) with resultant right ventricular (RV) heart damage. The mechanisms leading to RV failure after PE are not well defined, although it is becoming clear that PH-induced inflammatory responses are involved. We previously demonstrated profound neutrophil-mediated inflammation and RV dysfunction during PE that was associated with increased expression of several chemokine genes. However, a complete assessment of transcriptional changes in RVs during PE is still lacking. We have now used DNA microarrays to assess the alterations in gene expression in RV tissue during acute PE/PH in rats. Key results were confirmed with real-time RT-PCR. Nine CC-chemokine genes (CCL-2, -3, -4, -6, -7, -9, -17, -20, -27), five CXC-chemokine genes (CXCL-1, -2, -9, -10, -16), and the receptors CCR1 and CXCR4 were upregulated after 18 h of moderate PE, while one C-chemokine (XCL-1) and one CXC-chemokine (CXCL-12) were downregulated. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses indicated increased expression of many inflammatory genes. There was also a major shift in the expression of components of metabolic pathways, including downregulation of fatty acid transporters and oxidative enzymes, a change in glucose transporters, and upregulation of stretch-sensing and hypoxia-inducible transcription factors. This pattern suggests an extensive shift in cardiac physiology favoring the expression of the “fetal gene program.”
Utility of Double-Balloon Enteroscopy for the Evaluation of Malabsorption
Authors: Fry Lucia C. , Bellutti Michael , Neumann Helmut , Malfertheiner Peter , Mönkemüller Klaus
Published: April 2008

Introduction: Occasionally, patients with malabsorption represent a diagnostic challenge. Double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) allows deep and detailed examination of the small bowel. Aim: To determine the diagnostic value of DBE in patients with malabsorption of unclear origin. Methods: DBE was performed in a total of 12 patients with clinical malabsorption. Biopsy specimens were taken from macroscopic lesions or from examined small bowel at three different levels of scope insertion depth. Tissue specimens were evaluated with standard hematoxylin and eosin, the modified Marsh classification and, when indicated, special stains for amyloidosis. Results: Fifteen DBEs were successfully performed in 12 patients without complications. DBE with small bowel biopsies yielded a diagnosis in 8 patients (67%). A new diagnosis was reached in 4 patients (33%). The new diagnoses included: Crohn’s disease, primary intestinal lymphangiectasia and jejunal amyloidosis. In none of these 4 patients did the duodenal biopsies yield a diagnosis. Also, DBE excluded enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma (EATL) and/or ulcerative jejunitis in symptomatic celiac disease patients. Conclusions: DBE had a diagnostic value of 42% in patients with malabsorption of unclear origin. In addition, DBE was useful to rule out complications of long-standing celiac disease such as ulcerative jejunitis or EATL. DBE should be reserved for patients with unexplained malabsorption. DBE with jejunal and ileal biopsies appears to have a diagnostic value in patients with malabsorption, even when duodenal biopsies are histologically normal.
Intestinal Malabsorption and Skin Diseases
Authors: Abenavoli Ludovico , Proietti Ilaria , Vonghia Luisa , Leggio Lorenzo , Ferrulli Anna , Capizzi Rodolfo , Mirijello Antonio , Cardone Silvia , Malandrino Noemi , Leso Veruska , Rotoli Maurizio , Amerio Pier Luigi , Gasbarrini Giovanni , Addolorato Giovanni
Published: April 2008

Several skin manifestations were described in patients affected by intestinal disorders. The development of skin diseases in these patients could be related to the impairment of intestinal absorption and motility, other than to immunological and hormonal changes. The growing evidence of the association between skin disorders and intestinal diseases suggests that the skin could be considered the ‘mirror of the gut’.
Fecal Calprotectin Concentrations in Patients with Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
Authors: Montalto Massimo , Santoro Luca , Dalvai Sara , Curigliano Valentina , D’Onofrio Ferruccio , Scarpellini Emidio , Cammarota Giovanni , Panunzi Simona , Gallo Antonella , Gasbarrini Antonio , Gasbarrini Giovanni
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined by any condition in which the proximal part of the small bowel harbors for a long time >105 bacteria/ml of the intestinal juice. No data are currently available about direct or indirect parameters indicating the presence of leukocytes in the gut wall and mucosal neutrophil turnover in patients with SIBO. In our pilot study we evaluate fecal calprotectin concentrations (FCC) in patients with SIBO in order to identify a possible presence of subclinical intestinal inflammation. Methods: 40 consecutive patients with SIBO resulting positive to hydrogen glucose breath test, and 40 adult healthy volunteers were included in the study. FCC were determined by ELISA. Mean FCC were compared by means of the t-test for independent samples. Results: FCC in patients with SIBO were not significantly different compared to controls (p = 0.907). Conclusion: Our study shows for the first time that FCC in patients with SIBO do not significantly differ from controls, suggesting that in SIBO there are no intestinal subclinical inflammatory changes involving principally the neutrophils.
Effects of Sevelamer on the Progression of Vascular Calcification in Patients on Chronic Haemodialysis
Authors: Takei Takashi , Otsubo Shigeru , Uchida Keiko , Matsugami Keiko , Mimuro Tomoko , Kabaya Takashi , Akiba Takashi , Nitta Kosaku
Published: April 2008

Background/Aim: Vascular calcification is thought to be associated with a high cardiovascular mortality rate in patients with end-stage renal disease. Control of hyperphosphataemia is important for the treatment of the vascular calcification. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of sevelamer hydrochloride on the progression of aortic calcification in haemodialysis (HD) patients. Methods: 42 HD patients were studied in this study and divided into two groups (sevelamer vs. calcium). Sevelamer was added and titrated up to achieve serum P control for 6 months. The estimations of aortic calcification index (ACI) by abdominal computed tomography scans were performed twice in each patient. We compared the changes in serum calcium, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, and lipids in two groups. Results: Serum phosphorus levels decreased significantly from 6.7 ± 0.7 to 6.2 ± 0.5 mg/dl with no changes in serum intact parathyroid hormone levels in the sevelamer group (p < 0.01), and increased from 6.5 ± 1.0 to 6.7 ± 1.1 mg/dl in the calcium group (p < 0.05). Serum calcium levels did not change in the sevelamer group and calcium group. The serum levels of total cholesterol decreased significantly from 158.5 ± 20.7 to 146.2 ± 24.1 mg/dl (p = 0.024) and the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level from 65.3 ± 14.4 to 54.7 ± 11.6 mg/dl (p = 0.014) in the sevelamer group. Serum C-reactive protein decreased significantly from 0.14 ± 0.13 to 0.08 ± 0.11 mg/dl in the sevelamer group (p = 0.038) and significantly increased (0.18 ± 0.09 vs. 0.22 ± 0.12 mg/dl) in the calcium group (p = 0.042). The mean changes in ACI (ΔACI) were 3.6 ± 1.5% in the sevelamer group and 8.2 ± 3.1% in the calcium group. Conclusions: Sevelamer allows a better serum phosphorus control compared with calcium-based phosphate binder and suppresses the progression of aortic calcification in HD patients.
Lipoleiomyoma of the Uterus: Imaging Features
Authors: Loffroy Romaric , Nezzal Nassima , Mejean Nathalie , Sagot Paul , Krausé Denis
Published: April 2008

Background: Lipoleiomyoma is an extremely rare, benign, uterine tumor that requires no treatment when asymptomatic. It is important to differentiate it from malignant conditions requiring surgery. Methods: A uterine lipoleiomyoma in a 68-year-old asymptomatic woman exhibited highly suggestive features by ultrasound, multislice spiral computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results: The ultrasound findings were non-specific. CT scan showed an 8 × 7 cm well-defined fatty mass of the uterine body. On T2-weighted MR images, fat content within the tumor was confirmed because of evident chemical shift artifact.To our knowledge, the findings provided by these three modalities used in combination have not been reported previously in the gynecologic literature. Conclusion:The data yielded by CT and MRI on the fatty nature of the lesion are valuable in diagnosing this entity.The final pathological examination results confirmed the diagnosis of lipoleiomyoma.
Hepatitis A in Korea: Epidemiological Shift and Call for Vaccine Strategy
Authors: Lee Donghun , Cho Young-Ae , Park Youngsoo , Hwang Jin-Hyuk , Kim Jin Wook , Kim Na Young , Lee Dong Ho , Lee Wonwoo , Jeong Sook-Hyang
Published: April 2008

Objective: The number of adult hepatitis A cases has progressively been increasing during the last several years in Korea. The aim of the present study was to describe the recent clinical features of hepatitis A and the seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus (HAV), and to discuss HAV vaccine strategy in Korea. Methods: Retrospective analysis of clinical characteristics of hepatitis A from 109 patients consecutively enrolled at a community hospital between 2003 and 2006 as well as cross-sectional study of seroprevalence of HAV from 307 patients of hospital population group during the same period were performed. Results: Most hepatitis A cases were young adults in their twenties or thirties, and the severity of the disease was related to the age of patients. The seroprevalence of HAV was 62%, which was dependent on the age of patients. HAV seroepidemiology in Korea is rapidly changing and a growing number of young adults are susceptible to HAV infection. Conclusions: The clinical features and the epidemiological shift of HAV urge Korea, as well as other countries which are experiencing similar issues, to promote childhood vaccination and consider catch-up vaccination for adolescents and young adults.
Expression of TLR4 and TLR9 mRNA in Lewis Rats with Experimental Allergic Neuritis
Authors: Deng Yong-Ning , Zhou Wen-Bin
Published: April 2008

Objective: Experimental autoimmune neuritis (EAN) is a T cell-mediated animal model of the Guillain-Barré syndrome characterized by inflammation and demyelination of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The key pathogenesis of EAN is the imbalance between Th1- and Th2-type immune response. Toll-like receptor (TLR) is a receptor of the innate immune system. It can recognize the antigen by pathogen-associated molecular patterns, and activate the antigen-presenting cells, producing costimulating molecules to activate T cells. In this study, we observed the expression of mRNA of TLR4 and TLR9 in EAN rats. Methods: Male Lewis rats were immunized with the component of PNS myelin sheath protein P0 180–199 (100 µg) and Freund’s complete adjuvant (CFA). The clinical signs of rats and the pathological changes in the sciatic nerves were observed. The rats in the immunized group and the control group were sacrificed on day 7, 16, 24 and 33 after immunization. To observe the histopathological changes, sciatic nerve was embedded in paraffin, sectioned and stained with HE and Weil’s stain. The mRNA expression of TLR4 and TLR9 in spleen, sciatic nerve, peripheral blood monocytes and lymph nodes was detected by reverse transcriptase PCR dynamically. Results: The EAN group reached the peak of the clinical score at day 16 after the immunization, and the clinical manifestation obviously improved at day 33 after the immunization. The mRNA expression of TLR4 peaked at day 16, then decreased gradually, but at day 33, it was still higher than that of the CFA control group (p < 0.05); there were significant differences among the four time points (p < 0.05). The mRNA expression of TLR9 was upregulated during the entire course of EAN compared to the CFA and the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: TLR4 and TLR9 may play a role in the pathogenesis of EAN by taking part in the activation phage and effector phage.
High Altitude Arrhythmias
Authors: Woods D.R. , Allen S. , Betts T.R. , Gardiner D. , Montgomery H. , Morgan J.M. , Roberts P.R.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To investigate the cause and nature of palpitations occurring at high altitude. Methods: Implantable loop recorders were inserted subcutaneously in the left pectoral region of 9 healthy male volunteers. Subjects flew to Kathmandu (1,250 m) and then Lukla (2,800 m) before immediately commencing an identical ascent and descent profile to high altitude. The loop recorders were activated with any episode of palpitations and during exercise, rest and sleep. Arterial oxygen saturation was assessed concomitant with device activation. Results: Above 5,000 m all subjects reported palpitations during exercise. All subjects demonstrated sinus tachycardia and marked sinus arrhythmia; one subject demonstrated atrial flutter; one subject had non-conducted p waves, and a further subject had marked ST segment depression. Conclusions: Significant arrhythmias occur at high altitude. In view of the increased risk of sudden cardiac death at high altitude, and considering that the elderly account for 15% of the 100 million visitors to altitude annually, further investigation is required.
DNAI1 Mutations Explain Only 2% of Primary Ciliary Dykinesia
Authors: Failly Mike , Saitta Alexandra , Muñoz Analia , Falconnet Emilie , Rossier Colette , Santamaria Francesca , de Santi Maria Margherita , Lazor Romain , DeLozier-Blanchet Celia D. , Bartoloni Lucia , Blouin Jean-Louis
Published: April 2008

Background: Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare recessive hereditary disorder characterized by dysmotility to immotility of ciliated and flagellated structures. Its main symptoms are respiratory, caused by defective ciliary beating in the epithelium of the upper airways (nose, bronchi and paranasal sinuses). Impairing the drainage of inhaled microorganisms and particles leads to recurrent infections and pulmonary complications. To date, 5 genes encoding 3 dynein protein arm subunits (DNAI1, DNAH5 and DNAH11), the kinase TXNDC3 and the X-linked RPGR have been found to be mutated in PCD. Objectives: We proposed to determine the impact of the DNAI1 gene on a cohort of unrelated PCD patients (n = 104) recruited without any phenotypic preselection. Methods: We used denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography and sequencing to screen for mutations in the coding and splicing site sequences of the gene DNAI1. Results: Three mutations were identified: a novel missense variant (p.Glu174Lys) was found in 1 patient and 2 previously reported variants were identified (p.Trp568Ser in 1 patient and IVS1+2_3insT in 3 patients). Overall, mutations on both alleles of gene DNAI1 were identified in only 2% of our clinically heterogeneous cohort of patients. Conclusion: We conclude that DNAI1 gene mutation is not a common cause of PCD, and that major or several additional disease gene(s) still remain to be identified before a sensitive molecular diagnostic test can be developed for PCD.
Cloud Liquid Water Path from Satellite-Based Passive Microwave Observations: A New Climatology over the Global Oceans
Authors: O’Dell Christopher W. , Wentz Frank J. , Bennartz Ralf
Published: April 2008

This work describes a new climatology of cloud liquid water path (LWP), termed the University of Wisconsin (UWisc) climatology, derived from 18 yr of satellite-based passive microwave observations over the global oceans. The climatology is based on a modern retrieval methodology applied consistently to the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I), the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI), and the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer (AMSR) for Earth Observing System (EOS) (AMSR-E) microwave sensors on eight different satellite platforms, beginning in 1988 and continuing through 2005. It goes beyond previously published climatologies by explicitly solving for the diurnal cycle of cloud liquid water by providing statistical error estimates, and includes a detailed discussion of possible systematic errors.

A novel methodology for constructing the climatology is used in which a mean monthly diurnal cycle as well as monthly means of the liquid water path are derived simultaneously from the data on a 1° grid; the methodology also produces statistical errors for these quantities, which decrease toward the end of the time record as the number of observations increases. The derived diurnal cycles are consistent with previous findings in the tropics, but are also derived for higher latitudes and contain more information than in previous studies. The new climatology exhibits differences with previous observationally based climatologies and is found to be more consistent with the 40-yr ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-40) than are the previous climatologies.

Potential systematic errors of the order of 15%–30% or higher exist in the LWP climatology. A previously unexplored source of systematic error is caused by the assumption that all microwave-based retrievals of LWP must make regarding the partitioning of cloud water and rainwater, which cannot be determined using microwave observations alone. The potentially large systematic errors that result may hamper the usefulness of microwave-based climatologies of both cloud liquid water and especially rain rate, particularly in certain regions of the tropics and midlatitudes where the separation of rain from liquid cloud water is most critical.
Interdecadal Changes in the Major Modes of Asian–Australian Monsoon Variability: Strengthening Relationship with ENSO since the Late 1970s*
Authors: Wang Bin , Yang Jing , Zhou Tianjun , Wang Bin
Published: April 2008

The present paper develops an integral view of the year-to-year variability across the entire Asian–Australian monsoon (A–AM) system, which covers one-third of the global tropics between 40° and 160°E. Using season-reliant empirical orthogonal function (S-EOF) analysis, the authors identified two major modes of variability for the period 1956–2004. The first exhibits a prominent biennial tendency and concurs with the turnabout of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), providing a new perspective of the seasonally evolving spatiotemporal structure for tropospheric biennial oscillation. The second mode leads ENSO by one year. The remote El Niño forcing, the monsoon–warm pool ocean interaction, and the influence of the annual cycle are three fundamental factors for understanding the behavior of the first mode. The monsoon–ocean interaction is characterized by a positive feedback between the off-equatorial convectively coupled Rossby waves and the underlying sea surface temperature (SST) “dipole” anomalies.

Since the late 1970s the overall coupling between the A–AM system and ENSO has become strengthened. The relationships between ENSO and the western North Pacific, East Asian, and Indonesian monsoons have all become enhanced during ENSO’s developing, mature, and decaying phases, overriding the weakening of the Indian monsoon–ENSO anticorrelation during the developing phase. Prior to the late 1970s (1956–79), the first mode shows a strong biennial tendency, and the second mode does not lead ENSO. After 1980, the first mode shows a weakening biennial tendency, and the second mode provides a strong precursory signal for ENSO. These interdecadal changes are attributed to increased magnitude and periodicity of ENSO and the strengthened monsoon–ocean interaction.
On the Use of Cool Materials as a Heat Island Mitigation Strategy
Authors: Synnefa A. , Dandou A. , Santamouris M. , Tombrou M. , Soulakellis N.
Published: April 2008

The mitigation of the heat island effect can be achieved by the use of cool materials that are characterized by high solar reflectance and infrared emittance values. Several types of cool materials have been tested and their optical and thermal properties reveal that these materials can be classified as “cool” with the ability to maintain lower surface temperatures. Cool materials can be used on buildings and other surfaces of the urban environment. Based on these results, a modeling study was undertaken to assess the urban heat island effect over Athens, Greece, a densely populated city, by trying to analyze the impacts of large-scale increases in surface albedo on ambient temperature. Numerical simulations were performed by the “urbanized” version of the nonhydrostatic fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5, version 3-6-1). Two scenarios of modified albedo were studied: a moderate and an extreme increase in albedo scenario. It was found that large-scale increases in albedo could lower ambient air temperatures by 2°C. Furthermore, the impact of high albedo measures on heat island magnitude was estimated by creating a spatial representation of the urban heat island effect over the modeled area. The results of this study can help to promote the adoption of high albedo measures in building energy codes and urban planning regulations.
Decadal Modulation of ENSO in a Hybrid Coupled Model
Authors: Burgman Robert J. , Schopf Paul S. , Kirtman Ben P.
Published: April 2008

Decadal variations in the amplitude of El Niño and the Southern Oscillation have been the subject of great interest in the literature for the past decade. One theory suggests that ENSO is best described as a stable system driven by linear dynamics and that stochastic atmospheric forcing is responsible for the development and modulation of ENSO on interannual as well as decadal time scales. Another theory suggests that ENSO is driven by strong nonlinear coupled feedbacks between the ocean and atmosphere and low frequency changes in ENSO amplitude are driven by decadal changes in the tropical Pacific mean state. Unfortunately, the observed record is too short to collect reliable statistics for such low frequency behavior. A hybrid coupled model composed of a simple statistical atmosphere coupled to the Poseidon isopycnal ocean model has been developed for the study of ENSO decadal variability. The model simulates realistic ENSO variability on interannual and decadal time scales with negligible climate drift over 1000 years. Through analysis and experimentation the authors show that low frequency changes in the atmospheric “weather noise” drive changes in the tropical Pacific mean state leading to changes in the amplitude of ENSO on decadal time scales. Additional model simulations suggest that, while predictability is limited by the presence of atmospheric noise, there are extended periods when the coupled instability, strengthened by changes in the mean state, is insensitive to noise on interannual time scales.

The relationship between decadal modulation of ENSO and mean state changes resides somewhere between the linear damped stochastically forced theory and the strongly unstable theory. Unlike the strongly unstable system, changes in ENSO amplitude on longer time scales are determined by the stochastic forcing. The stochastic forcing is not necessary in this model to sustain ENSO; however, its presence is crucial for low frequency changes in the mean state of the tropical Pacific. The strong relationship between the mean state and ENSO amplitude modulation in the model is in opposition to the linear damped stochastically forced theory. The fact that changes in the tropical Pacific mean state lead directly to changes in ENSO amplitude and predictability has positive implications for predictability.
On Multidecadal Variability of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation in the Community Climate System Model Version 3
Authors: Danabasoglu Gokhan
Published: April 2008

Multidecadal variability of the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC) is investigated diagnostically in the NCAR Community Climate System Model version 3 (CCSM3) present-day simulations, using the highest (T85 × 1) resolution version. This variability has a 21-yr period and is present in many other ocean fields in the North Atlantic. In MOC, the oscillation amplitude is about 4.5 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), corresponding to 20% of the mean maximum MOC transport. The northward heat transport (NHT) variability has an amplitude of about 0.12 PW, representing 10% of the mean maximum NHT. In sea surface temperature (SST) and sea surface salinity (SSS), the peak-to-peak changes can be as large as 6°–7°C and 3 psu, respectively. The Labrador Sea region is identified as the deep-water formation (DWF) site associated with the MOC oscillations. In contrast with some previous studies, temperature and salinity contributions to the total density in this DWF region are almost equal and in phase. The heat and freshwater budget analyses performed for the DWF site indicate a complex relationship between the DWF, MOC, North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), and subpolar gyre circulation anomalies. Their complicated interactions appear to be responsible for the maintenance of this multidecadal oscillation. In these interactions, the atmospheric variability associated with the model’s NAO plays a prominent role. In particular, the NAO modulates the subpolar gyre strength and contributes to the formation of the temperature and salinity anomalies that lead to positive/negative density anomalies at the DWF site. In addition, the wind stress curl anomalies occurring during the transition phase between the positive and negative NAO states produce fluctuations of the subtropical–subpolar gyre boundary, thus creating midlatitude SST and SSS anomalies. Comparisons with observations show that neither the pattern nor the magnitude of this dominant SST variability is realistic.
On the Steadiness of Separating Meandering Currents
Authors: van Leeuwen Peter Jan , de Ruijter Will P. M.
Published: April 2008

The existence of inertial steady currents that separate from a coast and meander afterward is investigated. By integrating the zonal momentum equation over a suitable area, it is shown that retroflecting currents cannot be steady in a reduced gravity or in a barotropic model of the ocean. Even friction cannot negate this conclusion. Previous literature on this subject, notably the discrepancy between several articles by Nof and Pichevin on the unsteadiness of retroflecting currents and steady solutions presented in other papers, is critically discussed. For more general separating current systems, a local analysis of the zonal momentum balance shows that given a coastal current with a specific zonal momentum structure, an inertial, steady, separating current is unlikely, and the only analytical solution provided in the literature is shown to be inconsistent. In a basin-wide view of these separating current systems, a scaling analysis reveals that steady separation is impossible when the interior flow is nondissipative (e.g., linear Sverdrup-like). These findings point to the possibility that a large part of the variability in the world’s oceans is due to the separation process rather than to instability of a free jet.
The Effects of Complex Terrain on Severe Landfalling Tropical Cyclone Larry (2006) over Northeast Australia
Authors: Ramsay Hamish A. , Leslie Lance M.
Published: April 2008

The interaction between complex terrain and a landfalling tropical cyclone (TC) over northeastern Australia is investigated using the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–National Center for Atmospheric Research (PSU–NCAR) Mesoscale Model (MM5). Severe TC Larry (in March 2006) made landfall over an area of steep coastal orography and caused extensive damage. The damage pattern suggested that the mountainous terrain had a large influence on the TC wind field, with highly variable damage across relatively small distances. The major aims in this study were to reproduce the observed features of TC Larry, including track, intensity, speed of movement, size, decay rate, and the three-dimensional wind field using realistic high-resolution terrain data and a nested grid with a horizontal spacing of 1 km for the finest domain (referred to as CTRL), and to assess how the above parameters change when the terrain height is set to zero (NOTOPOG). The TC track for CTRL, including the timing and location of landfall, was in close agreement with observation, with the model eye overlapping the location of the observed eye at landfall. Setting the terrain height to zero resulted in a more southerly track and a more intense storm at landfall. The orography in CTRL had a large impact on the TC’s 3D wind field, particularly in the boundary layer where locally very high wind speeds, up to 68 m s−1, coincided with topographic slopes and ridges. The orography also affected precipitation, with localized maxima in elevated regions matching observed rainfall rates. In contrast, the precipitation pattern for the NOTOPOG TC was more symmetric and rainfall totals decreased rapidly with distance from the storm’s center. Parameterized maximum surface wind gusts were located beneath strong boundary layer jets. Finally, small-scale banding features were evident in the surface wind field over land for the NOTOPOG TC, owing to the interaction between the TC boundary layer flow and land surface characteristics.
Understanding Distress
Authors: Mak Winnie W. S. , Chen Sylvia Xiaohua , Lam Amy G. , Yiu Venus F. L.
Published: April 2008

To explore the cultural mechanisms underlying the distress experience among Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese, Chinese Americans, and European Americans, this investigation examined the role of face concern in psychological distress through a series of studies in both college students and community samples. Face concern refers to one's concern over maintaining or enhancing one's social position and worth that are earned through the fulfillment of specific social roles. Study 1 confirmed the single-factor structure of face concern among Chinese Americans and European Americans. Face concern was significantly and positively related to distress above and beyond age, gender, and ethnicity. Study 2 deconstructed face concern into a two-factor model among Hong Kong Chinese and Mainland Chinese university students (self-face and other-face) with discriminant predictive power. In Study 3, the two-factor model of face concern was further supported in the community samples of Hong Kong Chinese and Mainland Chinese. Self-face was found to be positively associated with distress. These findings highlighted the importance of attending to specific cultural dynamic of face concern in counseling services.
Process and Bullet-resistant Buffer Effect of an Elastic Cushioning Structure Made of Polyamide Non-woven Fabric and Chloroprene Rubber
Authors: Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Ching-Wen , Hsu Chan-Hung , Chen Jin-Mao , Lin Jia-Horng , Meng Hsien-Hui
Published: April 2008

High-performance material is typically used as bullet-resisting material. Although high-performance resists bullet penetration, it does not guarantee against non-penetrating damage. Design of a structure for reducing the non-penetrating damage would be useful. An elastic cushion structure has been used extensively for impact resistance. In this study, chloroprene rubber material was utilized to decay and transmit energy after being hit with a bullet. The cushion effect was examined based on the deformation of oil clay during a shooting test. The form of the elastic cushion structure and sequence of laminates were changed to determine the influence of these parameters on the cushion effect of a Kevlar laminated compound fabric. The reduction of non-penetrating damage and increase in safety use were achieved by designing a structure that reduced bullet impact.
Mechanical Properties of Cashmere Single Jersey Knitted Fabrics Blended with High and Low Crimp Superfine Merino Wool
Authors: McGregor B.A. , Postle R.
Published: April 2008

In this replicated experiment, we investigated the impact of cashmere in blends with superfine wools on the mechanical properties of single jersey knitted fabrics. We also investigated the relative performance of soft, low crimp/low fiber curvature superfine wool when compared with cashmere and also when compared with traditional high crimp/high fiber curvature superfine wool in pure and blended knitted fabrics. The results indicate both the cashmere blend ratio and fiber curvature/crimp of wool affected fabric properties. Pure cashmere fabrics were softer than pure wool fabrics. Adding cashmere to wool increased knitted fabric softness, smoothness, flexibility, and suppleness. The physical properties of pure low crimp wool fabrics were closer to the properties of pure cashmere fabrics than were knitted fabrics made from pure standard wool.
Surface Reconstruction from Two-view Body Scanner Data
Authors: Wurong Yu  , Bugao Xu
Published: April 2008

We propose an effective algorithm based on subdivision surface representation for reconstruction of the human body from the data of a two-view body scanner. In the case that the scan data can be grouped into front and back views, we firstly rearrange the data by resampling in the frontal projection plane, and triangulate each set of data points followed by zippering the front and back contours with an Add—Delete method to create an initial mesh. Then the initial mesh is simplified to produce a control mesh as the base of a subdivision surface. Finally, the control mesh is optimized by fitting its subdivision surface to the original data, and, accordingly, a piecewise smooth body model is reconstructed. Experimental results show that the algorithm is capable of gap and hole filling, is robust to noise, and is computationally efficient.
Preparation of Polyethylene Oxide/Chitosan Fiber Membranes by Electrospinning and the Evaluation of Biocompatibility
Authors: Lou Ching-Wen , Lin Jia-Horng , Yen Ko-Chung , Lu Chao-Tsang , Lee Chia-Yi
Published: April 2008

Chitosan is an excellent material for medical use because it is nontoxic, has good biocompatibility, exhibits antimicrobial activity, supports the healing of wounds, etc. Electrospinning yields nanofibers which have wide applications, such as high-performance filters, biomaterial scaffolds for vascular grafts or wound dressings, etc. In this investigation, electrospinning was performed in an electric field of 0.6 kV/cm with a polyethylene oxide to chitosan ratio of 60:40. The polymer nanofibers had diameters that ranged from a few nanometers to several micrometers (approximately 30 nm).