bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
History of Allergy and Reduced Incidence of Colorectal Cancer, Iowa Women's Health Study
Authors: Prizment Anna E. , Folsom Aaron R. , Cerhan James R. , Flood Andrew , Ross Julie A. , Anderson Kristin E.
Published: November 2007

Previous epidemiologic studies have reported that a history of allergy is associated with reduced risk of colorectal cancer and other malignancies. We studied the association between allergy history and incident colorectal cancer (n = 410) prospectively in 21,292 Iowa women followed for 8 years. Allergy was defined from four self-reported questions about physician-diagnosed asthma (a), hay fever (b), eczema or allergy of the skin (c), and other allergic conditions (d). A history of any allergy was inversely associated with incident colorectal cancer: after multivariate adjustment, the hazard ratio (HR) was 0.74 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.59-0.94]. Compared with women with no allergy, women reporting only one of the four types of allergy and women reporting two or more types had HRs of 0.75 (95% CI, 0.56-1.01) and 0.58 (95% CI, 0.37-0.90), respectively (P trend = 0.02). The inverse association persisted in analyses restricted to any type of nonasthmatic allergy (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.56-0.95). HRs were similar for rectal and colon cancers as well as for colon subsites: proximal and distal (HRs for any allergy ranged from 0.63 to 0.78 across these end points). Allergy history, which may reflect enhanced immunosurveillance, is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2357–62)
Sequence Variation in Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 Serine Protease Gene, Low LDL Cholesterol, and Cancer Incidence
Authors: Folsom Aaron R. , Peacock James M. , Boerwinkle Eric
Published: November 2007

Some prospective epidemiologic studies have suggested that a low plasma cholesterol level may be associated with increased risk of cancer. Certain sequence variants in the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 serine protease gene (PCSK9) are associated with lifelong low total and LDL cholesterol. We therefore analyzed the association of PCSK9 variation with incidence of cancer between 1987 and 2000 in a prospective study (n = 13,250). The frequency of the PCSK9 variants studied was 2.4% in blacks and 3.2% in whites. Neither was associated with increased cancer incidence: age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratios were 0.66 [95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.31-1.39] in blacks and 0.77 (95% CI, 0.54-1.09) in whites. Low baseline total or LDL cholesterol levels in 1987 to 1989 were also not statistically significantly associated with incident cancer: multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios for the lowest compared with the highest quartiles of LDL cholesterol were 1.05 (95% CI, 0.78-1.40) in blacks and 1.16 (95% CI, 0.99-1.36) in whites. These data suggest that a lifelong low cholesterol concentration, as reflected by these PCSK9 variants, does not increase risk of cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2455–8)
Urinary 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin and Mammographic Density in Japanese Women
Authors: Nagata Chisato , Matsubara Tomoko , Hara Takeshi , Fujita Hiroshi , Nagao Yasuko , Yamamoto Satoru , Shibuya Chiken , Kashiki Yoshitomo , Shimizu Hiroyuki
Published: November 2007

A protective role of melatonin in the etiology of breast cancer has been suggested. The down-regulation of estrogen secretion by melatonin is thought to be a main cause of the link between melatonin and breast cancer risk. The present cross-sectional study examined whether the urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMT6-s) level is inversely associated with mammographic density, which is regarded as a marker of breast cancer risk. The study subjects were 289 Japanese women (175 premenopausal and 123 postmenopausal women) who were recruited from participants in a mammographic breast cancer screening. The size of the total breast area and that of the dense area were measured quantitatively using an automated mammographic mass detection method. The concentration of aMT6-s was measured using first-void morning urine. In premenopausal women, the urinary aMT6-s level was significantly positively associated with percent density after controlling for covariates (P for trend = 0.02). There was no significant association between urinary aMT6-s level and the percent density in postmenopausal women. We found no evidence that the melatonin level is inversely associated with mammographic density. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2509–12)
Recreational Physical Activity and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: A Case-Control Study, Systematic Review, and Meta-analysis
Authors: Olsen Catherine M. , Bain Christopher J. , Jordan Susan J. , Nagle Christina M. , Green Adèle C. , Whiteman David C. , Webb Penelope M. ,   Australian Cancer Study (Ovarian Cancer) and Australian Ovarian Cancer Study Group
Published: November 2007

It remains unclear whether physical activity is associated with epithelial ovarian cancer risk. We therefore examined the association between recreational physical activity and risk of ovarian cancer in a national population-based case-control study in Australia. We also systematically reviewed all the available evidence linking physical activity with ovarian cancer to provide the best summary estimate of the association. The case-control study included women ages 18 to 79 years with a new diagnosis of invasive (n = 1,269) or borderline (n = 311) epithelial ovarian cancer identified through a network of clinics, physicians, and state cancer registries throughout Australia. Controls (n = 1,509) were randomly selected from the national electoral roll and were frequency matched to cases by age and state. For the systematic review, we identified eligible studies using Medline, the ISI Science Citation Index, and manual review of retrieved references, and included all case-control or cohort studies that permitted assessment of an association between physical activity (recreational/occupational/sedentary behavior) and histologically confirmed ovarian cancer. Meta-analysis was restricted to the subset of these studies that reported on recreational physical activity. In our case-control study, we observed weakly inverse or null associations between recreational physical activity and risk of epithelial ovarian cancer overall. There was no evidence that the effects varied by tumor behavior or histologic subtype. Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis, which gave summary estimates of 0.79 (95% confidence interval, 0.70-0.85) for case-control studies and 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.57-1.17) for cohort studies for the risk of ovarian cancer associated with highest versus lowest levels of recreational physical activity. Thus, pooled results from observational studies suggest that a modest inverse association exists between level of recreational physical activity and the risk of ovarian cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2321–30)
Aggregation of Cancer in First-Degree Relatives of Patients with Glioma
Authors: Scheurer Michael E. , Etzel Carol J. , Liu Mei , El-Zein Randa , Airewele Gladstone E. , Malmer Beatrice , Aldape Kenneth D. , Weinberg Jeffrey S. , Yung W.K. Alfred , Bondy Melissa L.
Published: November 2007

Background: Previous studies have been inconclusive in estimating the risk of different cancer sites among close relatives of glioma patients; however, malignant melanoma has consistently been described.

Methods: We obtained family history information from 1,476 glioma patients under age 75 years who registered at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center between June 1992 and June 2006. The number of observed cancers (N = 1,001) among 8,746 first-degree relatives (FDR) was compared with the number expected from age-, sex-, and calendar year–specific rates from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program using standardized incidence ratios (SIR).

Results: The overall SIR for any cancer was 1.21 (95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.29). Among FDRs under 45 years the overall SIR was 5.08, and for relatives >45 years the overall SIR was 0.95. The SIRs were significantly elevated for brain tumors (2.14), melanoma (2.02), and sarcoma (3.83). We observed an excess of pancreatic cancer, which was significantly higher only among mothers.

Conclusion: We observed an overall 21% increase in cancer among the FDRs of glioma patients including excess cases of brain tumors and melanoma, which could point to similar genetic contributions to these two malignancies. A large international linkage study is under way to examine potential genomic regions important for familial glioma. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2491–5)
Gender of Offspring and Maternal Risk of Invasive Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Baik Inkyung , Lambe Mats , Liu Qin , Cnattingius Sven , Mucci Lorelei A. , Riman Tomas , Ekbom Anders , Adami Hans-Olov , Hsieh Chung-Cheng
Published: November 2007

Gender of a fetus is associated with maternal hormonal milieu and may therefore modify maternal risk of ovarian cancer following a birth. We evaluated the relation between gender of offspring and maternal risk of epithelial ovarian cancer in a large case-control study nested within a nationwide cohort. Cohort members were identified in the Swedish Fertility Register. Cases of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer were identified in the Swedish National Cancer Register from 1961 to 2001. Five controls were matched by age to each case. A total of 7,407 cases and 37,658 controls with only singleton births were included in the analysis. We fit logistic regression models to study the association between gender of offspring and ovarian cancer risk, controlling for covariates. Maternal risk of ovarian cancer was reduced with increasing numbers of male offspring and increased with number of female offspring. Compared with women who gave birth to only girls, multivariate odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer were 0.92 (0.87-0.98) for those who gave birth to one boy, 0.87 (0.80-0.94) for two boys, and 0.82 (0.73-0.94) for three or more boys (P value test for trend < 0.001). There was a positive but nonsignificant association with number of girls. Similar results were observed when restricting the analysis to women born before 1935. Our findings suggest that hormonal and physiologic conditions in pregnancy with male, but not with female, offspring are associated with a lowered maternal risk of invasive epithelial ovarian cancer. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2314–20)
Gastric Cancer Risk and Erythrocyte Composition of Docosahexaenoic Acid with Anti-inflammatory Effects
Authors: Kuriki Kiyonori , Wakai Kenji , Matsuo Keitaro , Hiraki Akio , Suzuki Takeshi , Yamamura Yoshitaka , Yamao Kenji , Nakamura Tsuneya , Tatematsu Masae , Tajima Kazuo
Published: November 2007

Infection with Helicobacter pylori is linked to inflammation and is the main cause of peptic ulcer, gastritis, and gastric malignancies. To examine associations between gastric cancer risk and the erythrocyte composition of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and apoptosis-inducing effects, here we conducted a case-control study of 179 incident gastric cancer cases and 357 noncancer controls (matched by age, sex, and season of sample collection). Dietary information and blood samples were collected from all subjects, and erythrocyte fatty acid levels were measured using accelerated solvent extraction and gas-liquid chromatography. Gastric cancer risk did not seem to be directly associated with dietary intake of fish and n-3 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs), such as DHA, derived from fish. However, risk was inversely associated with erythrocyte compositions of n-3 HUFAs [the highest to the lowest tertile, odds ratio (OR), 0.39; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.23-0.68; Ptrend < 0.005] and DHA (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.28-0.79; Ptrend < 0.01). Particularly strong associations were noted for well-differentiated type lesions and n-3 HUFAs (OR, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.03-0.35; Ptrend = 0.0005) as well as DHA (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.07-0.58; Ptrend < 0.01) values. In conclusion, the erythrocyte composition of DHA was found to be negatively linked to risk of gastric cancer, especially of well-differentiated adenocarcinoma. Further studies are needed to investigate mechanisms of action of DHA relevant to antitumor effects in the stomach. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2007;16(11):2406–15)
Acute Liver Failure in Two Patients with Regular Alcohol Consumption Ingesting Paracetamol at Therapeutic Dosage
Authors: Krähenbühl Stephan , Brauchli Yolanda , Kummer Oliver , Bodmer Michael , Trendelenburg Marten , Drewe Jürgen , Haschke Manuel
Published: November 2007

Background: The possible role of alcohol in the development of hepatotoxicity associated with therapeutic doses of paracetamol (acetaminophen) is currently debated. Case Report: We describe 2 patients who were regular consumers of alcohol and who developed liver failure within 3–5 days after hospitalization and stopping alcohol consumption while being treated with 4 g paracetamol/day. A paracetamol serum level obtained in one of these patients was not in the toxic range. Possible risk factors for the development of hepatotoxicity in patients treated with therapeutic doses of paracetamol are discussed. Conclusion: In patients with risk factors, e.g. regular consumption of alcohol, liver failure is possible when therapeutic doses are ingested. We propose that the paracetamol dose should not exceed 2 g/day in such patients and that their liver function should be monitored closely while being treated with paracetamol.
Spatial and Temporal Expression Patterns of the Epithelial Cell Adhesion Molecule (EpCAM/EGP-2) in Developing and Adult Kidneys
Authors: Trzpis Monika , Popa Eliane R. , McLaughlin Pamela M.J. , van Goor Harry , Timmer Albertus , Bosman Gerrit W. , de Leij Lou M.F.H. , Harmsen Martin C.
Published: November 2007

Background: The epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) is expressed by most epithelia and is involved in processes fundamental for morphogenesis, including cell-cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Previously, a role for EpCAM in pancreatic morphogenesis was confirmed in vitro. Furthermore, changes in the EpCAM expression pattern were found in developing lung and thymus and in the regenerating liver. Therefore, EpCAM was proposed to be a morphoregulatory molecule. Methods: Using immunohistochemistry, the expression pattern of human and murine homologues of EpCAM was characterized in adult and embryonic kidneys from humans and human-EpCAM (hEpCAM)-transgenic mice. Results: EpCAM expression was found in the ureteric bud throughout nephrogenesis. EpCAM was not expressed in the metanephric mesenchyme. In comma- and S-shaped bodies, both metanephric mesenchyme derived structures, EpCAM expression appeared by E13.5. In adult kidneys, most epithelia expressed varying levels of EpCAM, as confirmed by double staining for human EpCAM and segment-specific nephron markers. Podocytes were EpCAM negative. At the cellular level, the EpCAM expression shifted from apical in embryonic to basolateral in adult kidneys. Conclusions: The spatiotemporal expression pattern of EpCAM changes during nephrogenesis. In the adult kidney, the expression varies markedly along the nephron. These data provide a basis for further studies on EpCAM in developing and adult kidneys.
Giant Brunner’s Hamartomas of the Duodenum and Obstructive Jaundice
Authors: Hol J.W. , Stuifbergen W.N.H.M. , Teepen J.L.J.M. , van Laarhoven C.J.H.M.
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: 150 cases of Brunner’s gland hamartoma (BGH) have been reported in the literature. BGHs are benign and are thought not to cause bile obstruction. Methods: In this case report, a 60-year-old male is presented with unexplained obstructive jaundice who was also known for over 17 years with diffuse adenomatous hyperplasia of Brunner’s glands in the duodenum. Despite the benign preoperative diagnosis, the choice of treatment was Whipple’s procedure due to suspicion of a coexisting malignancy. Results: Pathological analysis of the resection specimen revealed multiple BGHs and an adenocarcinoma of the papilla of Vater (PoV). Molecular pathology using loss of heterogeneity analysis was used to confirm that both were different entities. Conclusion: It is likely that previous reports of malignant degeneration of BGHs may actually have been cases involving the coexistence of a PoV adenocarcinoma. Physicians need to be alert when a patient presents with BGH accompanied with obstructive jaundice for simultaneously occurring PoV adenocarcinoma.
Mode of Delivery – Effects on Gut Microbiota and Humoral Immunity
Authors: Huurre Anu , Kalliomäki Marko , Rautava Samuli , Rinne Minna , Salminen Seppo , Isolauri Erika
Published: November 2007

Background: The rate of caesarean deliveries has increased 10-fold worldwide during the past decades. Objective: To evaluate differences in the establishment of gut microbiota in infants born by vaginal or caesarean delivery and its impact on mucosal immunity. Methods: Altogether, 165 consecutive children, prospectively followed from birth at our clinic in Turku, Finland, were gathered; 141 (85%) were born by vaginal delivery and 24 (15%) by caesarean section. Blood was drawn at physician visits for indirect evaluation of mucosal immunity by ELISPOT assay. Faecal samples were obtained for determination of the gut microbiota by fluorescence in situ hybridization of bacterial cells. Results: Infants delivered by caesarean section harboured fewer bifidobacteria at an early age and were shown to mount a stronger humoral immune response. At 1 month of age, the total gut bacterial cell counts per 1 g faeces were higher in vaginally delivered infants (9.9 × 109, 95% CI 7.9 × 109–1.2 × 1010) as compared to caesarean section delivered (3.1 × 109, 95% CI 1.1 × 109–8.6 × 109) (p = 0.001). This distinction was mainly due to the greater number of bifidobacteria in vaginally delivered infants (1.9 × 109, 95% CI 6.3 × 108–5.6 × 109 vs. 1.5 × 106, 95% CI 4.1 × 102–5.7 × 109, respectively) (p = 0.001). During the first year of life, the total number of IgA-, IgG- and IgM-secreting cells was lower (p = 0.03, p = 0.02, p = 0.11, respectively) in infants born by vaginal delivery than in those born by caesarean section, possibly reflecting excessive antigen exposure across the vulnerable gut barrier. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that the mode of delivery may have, possibly via gut microbiota development, significant effects on immunological functions in the infant (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct/gui/show/NCT00167700).
First Trimester Fetal Echocardiography
Authors: Marques Carvalho Sandra Regina , Mendes Maria Célia , Neto Omero Benedito Poli , Berezowski Aderson Tadeu
Published: November 2007

Objective: The aims of this study were to assess the feasibility of performing a complete fetal echocardiographic study during the first trimester of pregnancy, to establish the best week to accomplish a complete evaluation, and to find a relationship between the diameters of the cardiac valves and gestational age. Methods: 46 fetuses with normal nuchal translucency and venous duct Doppler velocimetry were submitted to echocardiographic studies by the transvaginal approach between the 11 + 0 and 14 + 6 weeks of gestation. A complete echocardiographic evaluation was defined as an examination in which the three basic planes, four-chamber, longitudinal and short-axis views, were obtained. Results: The rates of complete echocardiography evaluation were 37, 85 and 100% at 11, 12 and 13–14 weeks, respectively. The longitudinal view was the easiest to obtain and the short-axis view was the most difficult one. The diameter of the cardiac valves was compared with the crown-rump length (CRL) and there was no statistically significant difference between either the diameters of the mitral and tricuspid or the aortic and pulmonary valves. A linear growth curve was constructed to demonstrate the diameter correlations. Conclusions: The study demonstrated the feasibility of a complete fetal echocardiographic evaluation by the transvaginal approach during the first trimester of gestation. The rate of a complete evaluation increased along the period and reached100% when the CRL was 64 mm or 13 weeks of gestational age. There was a linear correlation between the cardiac valve diameters and the CRL revealing a relationship between the cardiac and fetal development. The absence of a statistically significant difference between the left and right valve dimensions possibly means that there is no predominance of right or left chambers during this period of evaluation.
Renal Function and Cardiovascular Response to Mental Stress
Authors: Seliger Stephen L. , Katzel Leslie I. , Fink Jeffrey C. , Weir Matthew R. , Waldstein Shari R.
Published: November 2007

Background/Aims: Cardiovascular reactivity (CVR), defined as an exaggerated hemodynamic response to mental stress, is a putative vascular risk factor and may reflect sympathetic hyperactivity. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is also associated with sympathetic hyperactivity and vascular risk, but its relationship with CVR is unknown. Methods: CVR was assessed in 107 individuals without overt cardiovascular disease or diabetes. Blood pressure and heart rate responses were elicited by three experimental tasks designed to evoke mental stress. Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was estimated using the MDRD formula. General linear models estimated the association between renal function and CVR, adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Mean age was 66 years and 11% had eGFR of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. After multivariate adjustment, a low eGFR was associated with a greater stress response of systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and pulse pressure. Associations were only partially attenuated after adjustment for lipids and glucose tolerance. When considered as a continuous variable, lower eGFR was associated with a greater blood pressure response after adjustment for glycemia. Conclusion: Although there were relatively few participants with CKD, these results suggest a relationship between CKD and greater CVR. Further investigation is warranted into factors that mediate this relationship and potential clinical consequences of this exaggerated response to stress in CKD.
Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Is a Molecular Target for the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor δ
Authors: Kim Hyo Jung , Ham Sun Ah , Kim Sung Uk , Hwang Jin-Yong , Kim Jae-Hwan , Chang Ki Churl , Yabe-Nishimura Chihiro , Kim Jin-Hoi , Seo Han Geuk
Published: November 2007

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)δ has been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherogenic disorders. However, its physiological roles and functions in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) remain relatively unclear. In the present study, we show that the gene encoding transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 is a PPARδ target in VSMCs. The PPARδ activator GW501516 upregulates TGF-β1 expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner. This induction is attenuated significantly by the presence of small interfering RNA against PPARδ or GW9662, an inhibitor of PPARδ. Furthermore, activated PPARδ induces TGF-β1 promoter activity by binding to the direct repeat-1 response element TGF-β1–direct repeat-1. Mutations in the 5′ or 3′ half-sites of the response element totally abrogate transcriptional activation and PPARδ binding, which suggests that this site is a novel type of PPARδ response element. In addition, ligand-activated PPARδ attenuated the promoter activity and expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 induced by interleukin-1β. These effects were significantly reduced in the presence of small interfering RNA against PPARδ, anti–TGF-β1 antibody, or a TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor. Decreased monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 expression induced by PPARδ was mediated by the effector of TGF-β1, Smad3. Finally, administration of GW501516 to mice upregulated TGF-β1, whereas the expression of proinflammatory genes including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 was significantly attenuated in the thoracic aorta. Taken together, these results demonstrate the presence of a novel TGF-β1–mediated pathway in the antiinflammatory activities of PPARδ.
Rush Pep Box
Authors: Toop David
Published: November 2007

The author relates his experiences, going back 3 decades, with the WEM Rush Pep Box, as well as the origin of the device.
The Vocal Memnon and Solar Thermal Automata
Authors: Duffey M.R.
Published: November 2007

A memnonium is a self-actuating system that generates music using solar energy. The name comes from the statue of Memnon, a famous tourist attraction in the Greco-Roman world that was said to emit sound when warmed by the morning sun. The Memnon statue inspired the design of musical automata in later periods, to which there are many historical references. Several intriguing technologies and engineering methods may be well suited for modern memnonium design efforts. However, full realization of solar thermoacoustic and thermokinetic sculpture would likely require deep collaboration between physics, music and other disciplines. In modern times, only a few simple proof-of-concept memnonia have been constructed.
Electronic Musical Instruments: Experiences of a New Luthier
Authors: Bongers Bert
Published: November 2007

The author reflects on his experiences as a designer of new electronic musical instruments, which have led to further insights and applications in other domains such as video performance, architectural design and knowledge applied in the general field of human-computer interaction.
Intercomparison of Integrated Water Vapor Estimates from Multisensors in the Amazonian Region
Authors: Sapucci Luiz F. , Machado Luiz A. T. , Monico João F. G. , Plana-Fattori Artemio
Published: November 2007

Water vapor is an atmospheric component of major interest in atmospheric science because it affects the energy budget and plays a key role in several atmospheric processes. The Amazonian region is one of the most humid on the planet, and land use change is able to affect the hydrologic cycle in several areas and consequently to generate severe modifications in the global climate. Within this context, accessing the error associated with atmospheric humidity measurement and the validation of the integrated water vapor (IWV) quantification from different techniques is very important in this region. Using data collected during the Radiation, Cloud, and Climate Interactions in Amazonia during the Dry-to-Wet Transition Season (RACCI/DRY-TO-WET), an experiment carried out in southwestern Amazonia in 2002, this paper presents quality analysis of IWV measurements from RS80 radiosondes, a suite of GPS receivers, an Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) solar radiometer, and humidity sounding from the Humidity Sounder for Brazil (HSB) aboard the Aqua satellite. When compared to RS80 IWV values, the root-mean-square (RMS) from the AERONET and GPS results are of the order of 2.7 and 3.8 kg m−2, respectively. The difference generated between IWV from the GPS receiver and RS80 during the daytime was larger than that of the nighttime period because of the combination of the influence of high ionospheric activity during the RACCI experiment and a daytime drier bias from the RS80.
Velocity Comparisons from Upward and Downward Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers on the West Florida Shelf
Authors: Mayer Dennis A. , Virmani Jyotika I. , Weisberg Robert H.
Published: November 2007

Current observations are compared from upward- and downward-looking acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCPs) deployed on the West Florida Shelf (WFS). Despite regional differences, statistical analyses show good agreement between all sets of observations throughout the water column except in the upper few meters where all downward-looking ADCPs exhibit small, but significant, reduction in rms speed values. Evidence suggests that this reduction is mooring related. It is possible that the presence of near-surface bubbles caused by wave activity could bias the near-surface observations. Otherwise, either the upward- or downward-looking mooring systems produce equivalent observations with differences due to spatial variations.
Evaluation of General-Purpose Construction Simulation and Visualization tools for Modeling and Animating AirSide Airport Operations
Authors: Khoury Hiam M. , Kamat Vineet R. , Ioannou Photios G.
Published: November 2007

This paper illustrates how simulation modeling and visualization can be of substantial help in studying airside airport operations, and can greatly contribute in planning and designing construction operations at airports in a way that has the least impact on airside operations. The characteristic that distinguishes the current work is the capability to model and animate airside airport operations with high fidelity using general purpose discrete event simulation and visualization tools typically used to model and animate construction operations. The focus of the presented work is on evaluating the capabilities of state-of-the-art construction simulation and visualization tools in being able to accurately model and animate airside airport operations. The paper presents the simulation model and 3D animation of the airside operations at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) in Romulus, Michigan. It also presents simultaneous modeling and visualization of operations in two different domains (i.e. airside operations and construction). The solution to the problem is described in detail using a simulation model developed in STROBOSCOPE and a 3D animation created using VITASCOPE. The obtained results highlight and prove that general-purpose tools, even if originally designed for specific domains, can be effective in studying operations involving the interaction of entities in multiple domains such as construction and airport operations.
A New Method of Measurement of the Inter-fiber Force
Authors: Nowrouzieh Shahram , Sinoimeri Artan , Drean Jean-Yves , Frydrych Richard
Published: November 2007

The friction and cohesion forces are some of the most important parameters that affect the yarn spinnability and tenacity. A new and simple device was carried out in order to quantify the friction and cohesion forces during a quasi-static fiber slippage in a sliver. This device was composed of two identical small carriages. One of them was fixed, whereas the second was moving on a linear guide. A piece of sliver was put down in the carriage channel in zero-gage position. The sliver was compressed with the upper carriage sides, where two identical weights were loaded. This apparatus was tested under different loads, sliver counts and speeds. The results were analyzed in order to check out the parameters which characterized the friction force during inter-fiber slippage.
Surface Modification of Non-woven Textiles using a Dielectric Barrier Discharge Operating in Air, Helium and Argon at Medium Pressure
Authors: Morent Rino , De Geyter Nathalie , Leys Christophe , Gengembre Léon , Payen Edmond
Published: November 2007

In this paper, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) non-wovens were modified by a dielectric barrier discharge in air, helium and argon at medium pressure (5.0 kPa). The helium and argon discharges contained a fraction of air smaller than 0.1 %. Surface analysis and characterization were performed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, liquid absorptive capacity measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The non-wovens, modified in air, helium and argon, showed a significant increase in liquid absorptive capacity due to the incorporation of oxygen-containing groups, such as C—O, O—C=O and C=O. It was shown that an air plasma was more efficient in incorporating oxygen functionalities than an argon plasma, which was more efficient than a helium plasma. SEM pictures of the plasma-treated nonwovens showed that the hydrophilicity of the nonwovens could be increased to a saturation value without causing physical degradation of the surface. The ageing behavior of the plasma-treated textiles after storage in air was also studied. It was shown that during the ageing process, the induced oxygen-containing groups re-orientated into the bulk of the material. This ageing effect was the smallest for the argon-plasma treated non-wovens, followed by the helium-plasma treated non-wovens, while the air-plasma treated non-wovens showed the largest ageing effect.
Modeling Biased Fineness and Maturity Results
Authors: Montalvo Joseph G. , Von Hoven Terri M.
Published: November 2007

In an earlier paper, our classical models study included simulations to explain the variability in coefficients of determination (R2) between fineness and maturity, micronaire and fineness, and micronaire and maturity of cotton. Subsequently, we emphasized the derivation and testing of three diagnostic models to enhance the R2 and provide information about the analytical quality (accuracy) of the results. In this paper, the theory of biased fineness and maturity measures is introduced and effects on the relationships with micronaire are simulated. Error functions based on Lord's micronaire model are derived to express biased results relative to the unbiased values. The simulations include three case studies in order of increasing complexity: bias varies linearly with micronaire, bias is nonlinear with micronaire, and random error is added to the bias. Classical and diagnostic model plots of the simulated unbiased and biased data are presented in detail to readily determine differences in the relationships.
Development of a Tool to Measure the Pressure Comfort of a Cap (II) — by the Analysis of Correlation Between Objective Pressure and Subjective Wearing Sensation
Authors: Hee Park Chung , Jun Youngmin , Jin Kang Tae , Hyun Kim Ju
Published: November 2007

A tool to evaluate the subjective wearing comfort of baseball caps from the objective measurement of pressure was developed. Comfortable fittability index (CFI) and holding power (HP) were defined to represent the subjective wearing comfort of caps. In order to define the CFI, average pressure and pressure distribution of cap pressure were obtained and subjective sensations were evaluated by wearing test. Two sets of caps were evaluated, one set made of elastic fabric (F-caps) and the other set made of non-elastic fabric (S-caps). F-caps exerted lower average pressure and smaller pressure distribution. In wearing test results, F-caps were comfortable within the wide rage of the cap size. From the results obtained, we tried to find the statistical relationship between the objective pressure and HP or CFI values. HP values increased with the increase of average pressure and also with pressure distribution, regardless of the textile properties. We analyzed the regression equation to estimate HP and pressure sensation utilizing average pressure and pressure distribution, and constructed the regression equation to estimate CFI using the calculated pressure sensation. We programed such estimated data in an algorithm and connected the measuring equipment of a cap pressure. Finally, a tool was developed to measure comfort and HP of a baseball cap from measuring the pressure inside caps.
Characterizing the Value of Actuarial Violence Risk Assessments
Authors: Harris Grant T. , Rice Marnie E.
Published: November 2007

Using the Violence Risk Appraisal Guide, relative operating characteristic (ROC) statistics are exemplified. Criticisms of actuarials and ROCs as measures of accuracy are discussed—ROC statistics are independent of base rates, but optimal decisions are not. Using sex offenders, the importance of accurate base rate information in the relevant population is examined. Although Bayes affords estimates of posterior probabilities for any base rate, Bayesian corrections can be too extreme in practice. This article illustrates that undesirable posterior probabilities are improved by superior selection ratios and refutes the criticism that “confidence intervals around individual scores” are so large as to make actuarial assessment meaningless. Personal values play a role in forensic decision making, and actuarial methods sharpen the focus on such values.
Gender Differences in Lower Extremity Landing Mechanics Caused by Neuromuscular Fatigue
Authors: Kernozek Thomas W. , Torry Michael R. , Iwasaki Mark
Published: November 2007

Background

Neuromuscular fatigue has been suggested as an extrinsic factor in the mechanism of noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury in both genders.

Purpose

To determine and describe the lower extremity kinematic and kinetic differences caused by neuromuscular fatigue during drop landings and compare changes between age- and skill-matched male and female athletes.

Methods

Inverse dynamic solutions estimated lower extremity flexion-extension and varus-valgus kinematics and kinetics for 14 female and 16 male athletes performing a single-legged 50-cm drop landing. Subjects performed landings prefatigue and postfatigue with fatigue induced via a parallel squat exercise (60% of 1 repetition maximum) until failure. A mixed-model, repeated-measures analysis of variance (fatigue * gender) was performed on select kinematic and kinetic variables.

Results

Neuromuscular fatigue caused men and women to land with more hip flexion (main effect fatigue, P = .012; main effect gender, P = .001). Men exhibited greater peak knee flexion angles postfatigue; women did not alter knee flexion (fatigue * gender, P =.028). Men exhibited larger peak knee varus angles irrespective of fatigue (main effect gender, P = .039; main effect fatigue, P = .127; fatigue * gender, P = .153); women demonstrated larger peak valgus angles overall (main effects gender, P = .009). There were no changes with fatigue (main effect fatigue, P = .127) or a different response due to fatigue with gender (fatigue * gender, P = .091). Women exhibited greater knee anterior shear force postfatigue (fatigue * gender, P = .010). Men and women exhibited lower knee extension moments (main effect fatigue, P = .000; main effect gender, P = .927; fatigue * gender, P = .309) and abduction moments (main effect fatigue, P = .014; main effect gender, P = .670; fatigue * gender, P = .191).

Conclusion

Neuromuscular fatigue caused significant alterations in women that may be indicative of the noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury mechanisms.

Clinical Relevance

Current noncontact anterior cruciate ligament prevention programs should incorporate a fatigue component to help minimize the deleterious effects of neuromuscular fatigue on landing mechanics.
Anterior Translation at the Glenohumeral Joint
Authors: Stapleton Claire H. , Herrington Lee , George Keith
Published: November 2007

Background

Lesions to the axillary artery are reported in overhead athletes. One speculated cause is repeated transient compression by the humeral head due to excessive laxity at the glenohumeral joint.

Hypotheses

(1) Anterior translation of the glenohumeral joint alters axillary artery diameter and blood flow characteristics, and (2) individuals demonstrating inducible axillary artery compression with the arm in an overhead position (as indicated by diameter and blood flow characteristics) will demonstrate greater magnitudes of anterior translation.

Study Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods

After receiving ethical approval and screening for problematic conditions/injuries, 26 subjects were tested (10 men and 16 women; mean age [standard deviation], 25 years [4]). Axillary artery diameter and peak systolic velocity were measured with B-mode and Doppler ultrasound before, during, and after glenohumeral anterior translation at 90° of abduction, 60° of external rotation, and 30° of horizontal flexion, and at baseline and a simulated overhead throwing position (120° of abduction, 90° of external rotation, and 30° of horizontal extension). The magnitude of anterior translation was captured with B-mode ultrasound using a posterior transverse approach.

Results

Application of the glide resulted in a significant (F2,21 = 9.965, P = .001) reduction in axillary artery diameter and a significant increase in peak systolic velocity (F2,21 = 5.286, P = .014). Subjects demonstrating clinically significant levels of axillary artery compression (>50% reduction in vessel diameter with the arm in the overhead throwing position) exhibited significantly (t = −2.260, P = .040) greater ranges of anterior translation at the glenohumeral joint than the 9 subjects who exhibited <10% reduction in arterial diameter.

Conclusions

This investigation provides the first empirical support for the clinical opinion that glenohumeral anterior translation could be a mechanism for inducible axillary artery compression.

Clinical Relevance

The response of axillary artery hemodynamics in normal, healthy individuals is the first step in the process of determining whether the finding of inducible axillary artery compression in overhead athletes with arterial pathology is related to glenohumeral translation.
The J-Bone Graft for Anatomical Glenoid Reconstruction in Recurrent Posttraumatic Anterior Shoulder Dislocation
Authors: Auffarth Alexander , Schauer Josef , Matis Nicholas , Kofier Barbara , Hitzl Wolfgang , Resch Herbert
Published: November 2007

Background

Posttraumatic shoulder dislocations with glenoid rim fractures show high rates of dislocation recurrence. For glenoid rim defects exceeding a certain size, several investigators recommend bone grafting. Few reports on anatomical glenoid reconstruction addressing this problem are published.

Hypothesis

Anatomical glenoid reconstruction by the J-bone graft creates permanent joint stability without a clinically relevant loss of motion.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

Forty-seven shoulders with glenoid rim fractures after recurrent anterior dislocation were stabilized by a J-bone graft. For clinical outcome, motion and strength compared with the uninjured shoulder, as well as sports activity, were recorded. The Rowe score and the Constant-Murley score were used for scoring. In cases of follow-up exceeding 6 years, computed tomography scans were obtained and compared to preoperative radiographs.

Results

The mean Rowe score was 94.3 for the affected shoulder and 96.8 for the uninjured side. The Constant score reached 93.5 and 95 points, respectively. Loss of external rotation was 4.36° in adduction and 3.19° at 90° of abduction. The computed tomography evaluation included 24 shoulders at a mean follow-up of 106.2 months. There were no recurrences of instability and 1 traumatic graft fracture. Of the 19 patients in whom arthropathy was present at follow-up, 11 had arthrosis before surgery.

Conclusion

The J-bone graft is capable of creating a stable shoulder joint without causing extensive loss of motion on the long term in patients with traumatic glenoid rim fractures after shoulder dislocation. In some patients, mild to moderate arthropathy develops despite anatomical glenoid reconstruction.
Visualization Study of the Vortex Behavior and Fluid Layer Formation of a Periodically Pulsating Jet under a Ceiling
Authors: Shik Han Yong , Dong Shin Hyun
Published: November 2007

The vortex behavior and thickness of the nozzle fluid layer of pulsating jets under a ceiling are studied using the laser-assisted visualization technique. The vortex formation characteristics of jets pulsating at different frequencies are compared with those of continuously issuing jets to investigate the effects of the pulsating frequency on the thicknesses of the nozzle fluid layers under a ceiling. To identify similarities between the features of pulsating isothermal jets and periodically pulsating pool fires, the frequencies of the pulsating jets are determined using the results obtained from previous pool fire studies. The formation and propagation characteristics of vortices in pulsating jets are investigated, along with the effects of the pulsation frequency on the thickness of the nozzle fluid layer. The size of the first primary vortex generated decreases as the pulsation frequency of the jet increases. The thickness of the nozzle fluid layer of pulsating jets is larger than that of continuously issuing jet, although the first primary vortex is smaller. The thickness of the nozzle fluid layer increases with decreasing pulsation frequency in jets with the same Reynolds number. The results of this study show the possibility that the ceiling jet behavior including the thickness of the smoke layer induced by a pulsating real fire plume can be strongly related to the pulsation frequency of the plume.
Flammability Properties of γ-irradiated Intumescent Flame-retardant HDPE/EVA Composites
Authors: Lu Hongdian , Zhang Quanzheng , Hu Yuanu
Published: November 2007

The influence of γ-irradiation on high density polyethylene/ ethylene—vinyl acetate copolymer composites consisting of ammonium polyphosphate and nylon 6 as intumescent flame-retardant additives is investigated. Cone calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared have been performed to characterize their flammability and thermal properties. The irradiated samples show slight reduction in peak heat release rate at suitable irradiation dose levels but exhibit less efficiency in fire protection in comparison with the non-irradiated sample. Thermogravimetric analysis results indicate that the irradiated samples have a higher thermal-oxidative stability than that of the non-irradiated sample. The intermolecular cross-links of the composites induced by γ-rays are suggested to be responsible for these behaviors.
A Novel PANK2 Gene Mutation: Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Patients—Short Communication
Authors: Kazek Beata , Jamroz Ewa , Gencik Martin , Jezela Stanek Aleksandra , Marszal Elzbieta , Wojaczynska-Stanek Katarzyna
Published: November 2007

Pantothenate kinase—associated neurodegeneration (PKAN) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with autosomal recessive inheritance. The major symptoms of PKAN include the onset before the age of 20 years, progressive pyramidal and extrapyramidal signs, retinitis pigmentosa, optic atrophy, dementia, and iron depositions in the globus pallidus. The authors present 3 patients with proven molecular diagnosis of PKAN, in whom 2 novel mutations of PANK2 gene have been identified.
Anophthalmia-Waardenburg Syndrome With Expanding Phenotype: Does Neural Crest Play a Role?
Authors: Galasso Cinzia , Bombardieri Roberta , Cerminara Caterina , Stranci Giuseppe , Curatolo Paolo
Published: November 2007

We describe a child with bilateral anophthalmia, limb anomalies, skin lesions, cerebral malformations, epilepsy, and mental retardation. This patient, according to eponymous classification, should fit into the Anophthalmia-Waardenburg syndrome, although he also presents cutaneous and cerebral manifestations never reported in this syndrome until now. These clinical findings could be explained by the new classification of brain malformations, which takes into account the role of neural crest in Waardenburg syndrome.
Blood Levels of Mercury Are Related to Diagnosis of Autism: A Reanalysis of an Important Data Set
Authors: DeSoto M. Catherine , Hitlan Robert T.
Published: November 2007

The question of what is leading to the apparent increase in autism is of great importance. Like the link between aspirin and heart attack, even a small effect can have major health implications. If there is any link between autism and mercury, it is absolutely crucial that the first reports of the question are not falsely stating that no link occurs. We have reanalyzed the data set originally reported by Ip et al. in 2004 and have found that the original p value was in error and that a significant relation does exist between the blood levels of mercury and diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder. Moreover, the hair sample analysis results offer some support for the idea that persons with autism may be less efficient and more variable at eliminating mercury from the blood.