bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of semidefinite programming for solving the LQR problem subject to rectangular descriptor systems
Authors:   Muhafzan
Published: December 2010

Use of semidefinite programming for solving the LQR problem subject to rectangular descriptor systems

This paper deals with the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) problem subject to descriptor systems for which the semidefinite programming approach is used as a solution. We propose a new sufficient condition in terms of primal dual semidefinite programming for the existence of the optimal state-control pair of the problem considered. The results show that semidefinite programming is an elegant method to solve the problem under consideration. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the results.
Ultra regular covering space and its automorphism group
Authors: Han Sang-Eon
Published: December 2010

Ultra regular covering space and its automorphism group

In order to classify digital spaces in terms of digital-homotopic theoretical tools, a recent paper by Han (2006b) (see also the works of Boxer and Karaca (2008) as well as Han (2007b)) established the notion of regular covering space from the viewpoint of digital covering theory and studied an automorphism group (or Deck's discrete transformation group) of a digital covering. By using these tools, we can calculate digital fundamental groups of some digital spaces and classify digital covering spaces satisfying a radius 2 local isomorphism (Boxer and Karaca, 2008; Han, 2006b; 2008b; 2008d; 2009b). However, for a digital covering which does not satisfy a radius 2 local isomorphism, the study of a digital fundamental group of a digital space and its automorphism group remains open. In order to examine this problem, the present paper establishes the notion of an ultra regular covering space, studies its various properties and calculates an automorphism group of the ultra regular covering space. In particular, the paper develops the notion of compatible adjacency of a digital wedge. By comparing an ultra regular covering space with a regular covering space, we can propose strong merits of the former.
Improving energy compaction of a wavelet transform using genetic algorithm and fast neural network
Authors: Stolarek Jan
Published: December 2010

Improving energy compaction of a wavelet transform using genetic algorithm and fast neural network

In this paper a new method for adaptive synthesis of a smooth orthogonal wavelet, using fast neural network and genetic algorithm, is introduced. Orthogonal lattice structure is presented. A new method of supervised training of fast neural network is introduced to synthesize a wavelet with desired energy distribution between output signals from low-pass and high-pass filters on subsequent levels of a Discrete Wavelet Transform. Genetic algorithm is proposed as a global optimization method for defined objective function, while neural network is used as a local optimization method to further improve the result. Proposed approach is tested by synthesizing wavelets with expected energy distribution between low- and high-pass filters. Energy compaction of proposed method and Daubechies wavelets is compared. Tests are performed using image signals.
Influence of Metallic Die Temperature in the Solidification of Cu-10%Al-2%Fe Alloy
Authors: Cenoz I.
Published: December 2010

Influence of Metallic Die Temperature in the Solidification of Cu-10%Al-2%Fe Alloy

The phases obtained in copper aluminium bronze alloy (Cu-Al10-Fe2) cast into a permanent die were investigated. The parameters examined were the pre-heating temperatures of the die and the graphite coating thickness. The phases α and γ2were detected as well as the metastable phases β' and γ'. The intermetallics of the system Fe-Al were obtained in various stoichiometric compositions. The different cooling rates of the casting resulted in two mechanisms of transformation to α grains out of the unstable β phase, one being nucleation and growth producing needle shaped α grains, the other exhibiting a massive transformation to spherical α grains. These two mechanisms determine the changes in the size of the α grains as a result of changes in the cooling rate in its various ranges.
Use of Industrially Produced Synthetic Slag at Třinecké Železárny, A.S.
Authors: Michalek K. , Čamek L. , Piegza Z. , Pilka V. , Morávka J.
Published: December 2010

Use of Industrially Produced Synthetic Slag at Třinecké Železárny, A.S.

The paper summarises experience with using synthetic slags on the CaO - Al2O3 oxide basis in the technological flow of the oxygen converter steelworks in TŘINECKÉ ŽELEZÁRNY, a.s. These slags are used as an alternative to slags containing fluorspar which unfavourably affects both the service life of ladle linings and the steelwork's working environment. The content gives the first knowledge of using the Refraflux type synthetic slag to desulphurize steel, and it also provides a basic statistical evaluation of the heat produced.
Options to Prevent Dicalcium Silicate-Driven Disintegration of Stainless Steel Slags
Authors: Pontikes Y. , Jones P. , Geysen D. , Blanpain B.
Published: December 2010

Options to Prevent Dicalcium Silicate-Driven Disintegration of Stainless Steel Slags

In this paper, a short overview is given on the strategy for high dicalcium silicate stainless steel slags stabilisation along with some results from work done and currently being performed at the K.U. Leuven.
Alternative Automatic Vehicle Classification Method
Authors: Burnos Piotr
Published: December 2010

Alternative Automatic Vehicle Classification Method

The paper deals with the new method of automatic vehicle classification called ALT (ALTernative). Its characteristic feature is versatility resulting from its open structure, moreover a user can adjust the number of vehicles and their category according to individual requirements. It uses an algorithm for automatic vehicle recognition employing data fusion methods and fuzzy sets. High effectiveness of classification while retaining high selectivity of division was proved by test results. The effectiveness of classification of all vehicles at the level of 95% and goods trucks of 100% is more than satisfactory.
Accuracy Assessment of Shape Mapping Using Computer Tomography
Authors: Ryniewicz Andrzej
Published: December 2010

Accuracy Assessment of Shape Mapping Using Computer Tomography

Diagnosis and therapy of human diseases is often associated with an analysis of the geometry of internal organs or their pathological conditions. That is why the problem of accuracy assessment of shape mapping using computer tomography and the latest imaging techniques became very important. Therefore, in the paper the accuracy assessment of mapping was proposed using the real shape of the synthetic indices. Two test cases were presented - a reference sphere and the cartilage surface of the knee condyle. The results of tomography research and analysis of accuracy of shape mapping using the "best fit" method and the program Reshaper, in the form of synthetic indicators are presented.
Transcriptional pattern of TGF-β1 inhibitory effect on mouse C2C12 myoblasts differentiation
Authors: Wicik Z. , Sadkowski T. , Jank M. , Motyl T.
Published: December 2010

Transcriptional pattern of TGF-β1 inhibitory effect on mouse C2C12 myoblasts differentiation

The aim of the present study was to define the effect of TGF-β1 on C2C12 myoblasts myogenesis. TGF-β1 together with its receptor is a negative auto-paracrine regulator of myogenesis, which influences the proliferation, differentiation, and functions of muscle cells. TGF-β1 exerts highly significant inhibitory effect on differentiation of C2C12 mouse myoblasts manifested by the impairment of cell fusion and very low expression of myosin heavy chain. The study of differentiating C2C12 mouse myoblasts treated with TGF-β1 revealed 502 genes (436 down-regulated and 66 up-regulated) with statistically different expression. TGF-β1-regulated genes were identified to be involved in 29 biological processes, 29 molecular functions groups and 59 pathways. The strongest inhibiting effect of TGF-β1 was observed in the cadherin and Wnt pathways. The key-genes that could play the role of TGF-β1 targets during myoblasts differentiation was identified such as: Max, Creb1, Ccna2, Bax, MdfI, Tef, Tubg1, Cxcl5, Rho, Calca and Lgals4.
Universally Particular: The Garneau Sisterhood's Challenge to the Rape Script
Authors: Mazurok Katherine
Published: December 2010

Durant l'été de 2008, un groupe populaire féministe s'appelant « Garneau Sisterhood » s'est formé pour faire une campagne d'affichage dans le quartier, en réaction à une série très publicisée d'agressions sexuelles par un inconnu que l'on croyait l'oeuvre d'un individu en particulier. Les messages affichés allaient à l'encontre des méthodes classiques de prévention du viol en cherchant aussi à promouvoir l'autonomie et la sécurité des femmes dans l'espoir de faciliter l'arrestation du violeur du quartier Garneau. Les affiches de la Sisterhood ont attiré l'attention des médias et le violeur du quartier Garneau ainsi que le militantisme de la Sisterhood contre le viol ont fait l'objet d'un dialogue au sujet de l'agression sexuelle dans de nombreux journaux d'Edmonton. Pendant toute la durée de cette présence publique, les membres individuels de la Sisterhood ont choisi de demeurer anonymes pour des fins politiques. Cette stratégie concordait avec leur prise de position, soit que la violence sexuelle est un problème social collectif et ne peut être individualisée. De cette manière, la Sisterhood a invoqué une forme de discours universalisant. Le présent article porte sur le militantisme de la Garneau Sisterhood, en réfléchissant sur la contestation de la Sisterhood des récits classiques de viols et sur les interventions théoriques concernant les scénarios de viols—tels qu'élaborés par Sharon Marcus—et l'universalisme—décrit par Ernesto Laclau. En effet, l'auteure soutient que l'universalisme de la Garneau Sisterhood peut se lire comme perturbant le scénario de viol de la manière que prône Marcus. L'auteure conclut que même si le militantisme de la Sisterhood fournit un précieux exemple du militantisme anti-viol de la troisième vague, son intervention demeure limitée parce qu'elle n'a pas activement remis en cause les fondements racialisés du scénario de viol contesté.
Burning Speed and Entropy Production Calculation of a Transient Expanding Spherical Laminar Flame Using a Thermodynamic Model
Authors: Eisazadeh-Far Kian , Moghaddas Ali , Rahim Faranak , Metghalchi Hameed
Published: December 2010

A thermodynamic model has been developed to calculate burning speed and entropy production of transient expending spherical laminar flame in an enclosed vessel. The model also predicts the particle trajectories of both unburned and burned gases in the vessel. The input to this model is the dynamic pressure rise due to combustion process. The unburned gases are divided into three regions: The core unburned gases which are compressed isentropically, the vessel walls and electrodes boundary layer gases, and gases in the preheat zone of the flames. The burned gases are in many shells having the same pressure but different temperatures. The model also includes radiation losses from the burned gases to vessel walls. Entropy production due to irreversibility has been calculated by applying entropy balance to the gas mixtures. Burning speed of premixed n-decane air mixture has been reported for temperatures and pressures along an isentrope.
Tsallis Entropy, Escort Probability and the Incomplete Information Theory
Authors: Darooneh Amir Hossein , Naeimi Ghassem , Mehri Ali , Sadeghi Parvin
Published: December 2010

Non-extensive statistical mechanics appears as a powerful way to describe complex systems. Tsallis entropy, the main core of this theory has been remained as an unproven assumption. Many people have tried to derive the Tsallis entropy axiomatically. Here we follow the work of Wang (EPJB, 2002) and use the incomplete information theory to retrieve the Tsallis entropy. We change the incomplete information axioms to consider the escort probability and obtain a correct form of Tsallis entropy in comparison with Wang’s work.
Gene Conversion in Human Genetic Disease
Authors: Chen Jian-Min , Férec Claude , Cooper David N.
Published: December 2010

Gene conversion is a specific type of homologous recombination that involves the unidirectional transfer of genetic material from a ‘donor’ sequence to a highly homologous ‘acceptor’. We have recently reviewed the molecular mechanisms underlying gene conversion, explored the key part that this process has played in fashioning extant human genes, and performed a meta-analysis of gene-conversion events known to have caused human genetic disease. Here we shall briefly summarize some of the latest developments in the study of pathogenic gene conversion events, including (i) the emerging idea of minimal efficient sequence homology (MESH) for homologous recombination, (ii) the local DNA sequence features that appear to predispose to gene conversion, (iii) a mechanistic comparison of gene conversion and transient hypermutability, and (iv) recently reported examples of pathogenic gene conversion events.
Chronic Mild Stress Induces Fluoxetine-Reversible Decreases in Hippocampal and Cerebrospinal Fluid Levels of the Neurotrophic Factor S100B and Its Specific Receptor
Authors: Rong Han , Wang Gaohua , Liu Tiebang , Wang Huiling , Wan Qirong , Weng Senghong
Published: December 2010

Chronic mild stress (CMS) affects the hippocampal structure and function in the rat. S100B, a calcium-binding protein secreted by astrocytes, has been shown to be increased in serum of patients with depression and associated with good therapeutic response and clinical outcome. This work aimed to study the impact of CMS and fluoxetine on depressive-like behaviors in rats, as well as the concomitant expression of the astroglial protein S100B and of its receptor RAGE (receptor for advanced glycation end products) in the hippocampus and Cerebrospinal fluid of the same group of animals. S100B and sRAGE (circulating soluble form of RAGE) were measured in CSF by ELISA, and S100B and RAGE were measured in hippocampal slices by Western blot. Our study has demonstrated that stress and depression decrease S100B and RAGE/SRAGE expression and antidepressant treatment reverses or blocks these effects. This result suggested that S100B/RAGE interactions may be involved in the development and maintenance of depression and may play an important role in the mechanism of antidepressants’ therapeutic action.
Role of Alloying Additions in Glass Formation and Properties of Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Chen Na , Martin Laura , Luzguine-Luzgin Dmitri V. , Inoue Akihisa
Published: December 2010

Alloying addition, as a means of improving mechanical properties and saving on costs of materials, has been applied to a broad range of uses and products in the metallurgical fields. In the field of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs), alloying additions have also proven to play effective and important roles in promoting glass formation, enhancing thermal stability and improving plasticity of the materials. Here, we review the work on the role of alloying additions in glass formation and performance improvement of BMGs, with focus on our recent results of alloying additions in Pd-based BMGs.
Botulinum Neurotoxin for Pain Management: Insights from Animal Models
Authors: Pavone Flaminia , Luvisetto Siro
Published: December 2010

The action of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) at the neuromuscular junction has been extensively investigated and knowledge gained in this field laid the foundation for the use of BoNTs in human pathologies characterized by excessive muscle contractions. Although much more is known about the action of BoNTs on the peripheral system, growing evidence has demonstrated several effects also at the central level. Pain conditions, with special regard to neuropathic and intractable pain, are some of the pathological states that have been recently treated with BoNTs with beneficial effects. The knowledge of the action and potentiality of BoNTs utilization against pain, with emphasis for its possible use in modulation and alleviation of chronic pain, still represents an outstanding challenge for experimental research. This review highlights recent findings on the effects of BoNTs in animal pain models.
NOISE LEVEL STUDY AND ASSESSMENT IN THE SOUTHERN PART OF PANEVEŽYS
Authors: Baltrėnas Pranas , Petraitis Egidijus , Januševičius Tomas
Published: December 2010

Noise is a relevant problem faced not only by Lithuania but across the world. With motor traffic flow increase, the noise caused by them is also growing and in particular noisy are heavy vehicles and motorcycles. Noise measurements were taken near the main streets in the southern part of Panevežys. Measurements were made during three time periods of the day: in the daytime (from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.), in the evening (from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.) and at night (from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.). In this part of the city noise is mainly generated by cars. The measured noise levels were compared with the noise level limit (NLL) in the measurement places where the NLL is most often exceeded. Noise level analysis and traffic flows are presented in the work. As the performed measurements show, the NLL in the daytime was exceeded by 65%, in the evening by 88%, and at night by 71% of all the total measurements made. The equivalent NLL was exceeded by up to 14 dBA and the maximum NLL – by up to 17 dBA. The highest excess of the NLL was recorded by streets with the heaviest traffic. Santrauka Triukšmas – ne tik Lietuvoje, bet ir visame pasaulyje aktuali problema. Automobiliu srautams vis labiau didejant, dideja ir ju keliamas triukšmas, ypač triukšmingi yra sunkvežimiai ir motociklai. Triukšmo tyrimai atlikti Panevežio pietineje dalyje prie pagrindiniu gatviu. Matavimai vyko skirtingu paros laiku: diena 6–18 val., vakare 18–22 val. ir nakti 22–6 valandomis. Šioje miesto dalyje pagrindine triukšmo priežastis – automobiliai. Triukšmo lygis, išmatuotas vietose, kuriose dažniausiai viršijamas, lyginamas su leidžiamosiomis normomis. Atlikta triukšmo lygiu ir transporto srautu analize. Iš duomenu matyti, kad leidžiamasis triukšmo lygis diena viršytas 65 %, vakare 88 %, o nakti – 71 % atliktu matavimu. Ekvivalentinis triukšmo lygis viršytas iki 14 dBA, o maksimalusis leidžiamasis – iki 17 dB. Labiausiai triukšmo lygis viršijamas prie gatviu, kuriose pravažiuoja daugiausia automobiliu. Резюме Шум является актуальной проблемой не только в Литве, но и во всем мире. С увеличением автомобильных потоков неизбежно увеличивается и вызываемый ими (особенно грузовиками и мотоциклами) шум. Исследования шума проводились в южной части города Паневежиса, вблизи основных улиц в разное время суток: днем с 6 до 18 часов, вечером с 18 до 22 часов и ночью с 22 до 6 часов утра. В этой части города основным источником шума являются автомобили. Измеренные уровни шума были сравнены с допустимыми уровнями для мест, в которых он чаще всего превышен. Произведен анализ уровней шума и транспортных потоков. Из данных измерений видно, что допустимый уровень шума в дневное время был превышен в 65%, вечером – в 88%, а ночью – в 71% проведенных измерений. Эквивалентный уровень шума превышен до 14 дБа, а максимально допустимый – до 17 дБа. Уровни шума особенно увеличены вблизи улиц, по которым проезжает больше всего автомобилей.
Increased Intracranial Pressure in Patients With Cystinosis
Authors: Rogers David L. , McGregor Mary Lou
Published: December 2010

Patients with cystinosis have risk factors known to be associated with secondary increased intracranial pressure. The authors report a series of patients with cystinosis and describe their experience in the diagnosis and management of increased intracranial pressure in this population. The ophthalmologist should be aware of this vision-threatening association.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2010;47:e1–e3.]
Development of the Edmonson Psychiatric Fall Risk Assessment Tool
Authors: Edmonson Deborah , Robinson Sherry , Hughes Larry
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to develop a fall risk assessment instrument for the inpatient psychiatric population. Nine risk factors were identified through a review of the literature. The instrument was applied retrospectively to patient records, and the percentage of those who fell who triggered each of the items in each domain was calculated. The expected value of the population and weighting system were established. The Morse Fall Scale and Edmonson Psychiatric Fall Risk Assessment Tool (EPFRAT) were administered simultaneously to inpatient psychiatric patients. Sensitivity of the EPFRAT was 0.63, compared with 0.49 for the Morse Fall Scale; specificity of the EPFRAT was 0.86, compared with 0.85 for the Morse Fall Scale. Initial psychometric testing of the EPFRAT indicates the instrument is more sensitive in assessing fall risk in the acutely ill psychiatric population than those currently available. Additional psychometric testing is needed to determine the reliability and validity of the EPFRAT.
Chronological Reorganization of Microtubules, Actin Microfilaments, and Chromatin during the First Cell Cycle in Swamp Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Embryos
Authors: Chankitisakul Vibuntita , Tharasanit Theerawat , Tasripoo Kriengsak , Techakumphu Mongkol
Published: December 2010

This paper aimed to study the dynamics of early embryonic development, in terms of redistribution of cytoskeleton (microtubules, actin microfilaments) and chromatin configurations during the first cell cycle in swamp buffalo embryos. Oocytes were matured and fertilizedin vitro, and they were fixed at various time points after IVF. At 6 h after IVF, 44.4% matured oocytes were penetrated by spermatozoa. Partial ZP digestion, however, did not improve fertilization rate compared to control (P>.05). At 12 h after IVF, the fertilized oocytes progressed to the second meiotic division and formed the female pronucleus simultaneously with the paternal chromatin continued to decondense. A sperm aster was observed radiating from the base of the decondensing sperm head. At 18 h after IVF, most presumptive zygotes had reached the pronuclear stage. The sperm aster was concurrently enlarged to assist the migration and apposition of pronuclei. Cell cleavage was facilitated by microfilaments and firstly observed by 30 h after IVF. In conclusion, the cytoskeleton actively involves with the process of fertilization and cleavage in swamp buffalo oocytes. The centrosomal material is paternally inherited. Fertilization failure is predominantly caused by poor sperm penetration. However, partial digestion of ZP did not improve fertilization rate.
Investigation into the Prevalence of Cryptosporidium Infection in Calves among Small-Holder Dairy and Traditional Herds in Tanzania
Authors: Swai Emanuel S. , Schoonman Luuk
Published: December 2010

A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine prevalence and risk factors of cryptosporidiosis in bovine from two contrasting production system in and around Tanga municipality between May 2003 and January 2004. The study populations comprised 117 calves aged ≤3 months, randomly selected from 44 smallholders dairy and traditional managed herds, respectively. Individual calf and herd-level information was collected using a structured questionnaire and feacal samples were screened forCryptosporidiumspp oocysts using the modified Ziehl-Neelsen method. Overall, 35% of the calves in the study were sheddingCryptosporidiumspp oocysts, with at least one positive calf detected in 54.5% of herds. Independent risk factors for cryptosporidiosis were: age ≥1 to ≤2 months and level of cleanness of calf house floor categorized as dirty (). Similarly an increases risk ofCryptosporidiumspp infection was found in calves from smallholder dairy units compared to traditional herds (). The finding highlights thatCryptosporidiumspp is prevalent among calves in the area under study. The high prevalence of cryptosporidiosis detected in this study suggests that it may have a significant impact on livestock industry and that the close interaction between cattle and human may play a role in zoonotic transmission to humans.
QT Measurement and Heart Rate Correction during Hypoglycemia: Is There a Bias?
Authors: Christensen Toke Folke , Randløv Jette , Kristensen Leif Engmann , Eldrup Ebbe , Hejlesen Ole Kristian , Struijk Johannes Jan
Published: December 2010

Introduction. Several studies show that hypoglycemia causes QT interval prolongation. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of QT measurement methodology, heart rate correction, and insulin types during hypoglycemia.Methods. Ten adult subjects with type 1 diabetes had hypoglycemia induced by intravenous injection of two insulin types in a cross-over design. QT measurements were done using the slope-intersect (SI) and manual annotation (MA) methods. Heart rate correction was done using Bazett’s (QTcB) and Fridericia’s (QTcF) formulas.Results. The SI method showed significant prolongation at hypoglycemia for QTcB (42(6) ms;P<.001) and QTcF (35(6) ms;P<.001). The MA method showed prolongation at hypoglycemia for QTcB (7(2) ms,P<.05) but not QTcF. No difference in ECG variables between the types of insulin was observed.Discussion. The method for measuring the QT interval has a significant impact on the prolongation of QT during hypoglycemia. Heart rate correction may also influence the QT during hypoglycemia while the type of insulin is insignificant. Prolongation of QTc in this study did not reach pathologic values suggesting that QTc prolongation cannot fully explain the dead-in-bed syndrome.
Association between Depression and C-Reactive Protein
Authors: Ma Yunsheng , Chiriboga David E. , Pagoto Sherry L. , Rosal Milagros C. , Li Wenjun , Merriam Philip A. , Hébert James R. , Whited Matthew C. , Ockene Ira S.
Published: December 2010

Objective. Depression has been associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk, and a depression-related elevation of high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) has been proposed as a possible mechanism. The objective of this paper is to examine association between depression and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP).Methods. Subjects consisted of 508 healthy adults (mean age 48.5 years; 49% women, 88% white) residing in central Massachusetts. Data were collected at baseline and at quarterly intervals over a one-year period per individual. Multivariable linear mixed models were used to assess the association for the entire sample and by gender.Results. The mean Beck Depression Inventory score was 5.8 (standard deviation (SD) 5.4; median 4.3), and average serum hs-CRP was 1.8 mg/L (SD 1.7; median 1.2). Results from the multivariable linear mixed models show that individuals with higher depression scores have higher levels of hs-CRP. Analyses by gender show persistence of an independent association among women, but not among men. Body mass index (BMI = weight(kg)/height(m)2) appears to be a partial mediator of this relationship.Conclusion. Depression score was correlated to hs-CRP levels in women. Further studies are required to elucidate the biological mechanisms underlying these associations and their implications.
Increased mRNA Levels of TCF7L2 and MYC of the Wnt Pathway in Tg‐ArcSwe Mice and Alzheimer′s Disease Brain
Authors: Blom Elin S. , Wang Yijing , Skoglund Lena , Hansson Anita C. , Ubaldi Massimo , Lourdusamy Anbarasu , Sommer Wolfgang H. , Mielke Matthew , Hyman Bradley T. , Heilig Markus , Lannfelt Lars , Nilsson Lars N. G. , Ingelsson Martin
Published: December 2010

Several components in the Wnt pathway, including β‐catenin and glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta, have been implied in AD pathogenesis. Here, mRNA brain levels from five‐month‐old tg‐ArcSwe and nontransgenic mice were compared using Affymetrix microarray analysis. With surprisingly small overall changes, Wnt signaling was the most affected pathway with altered expression of nine genes in tg‐ArcSwe mice. When analyzing mRNA levels of these genes in human brain, transcription factor 7‐like 2 (TCF7L2) and v‐myc myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (MYC), were increased in Alzheimer′s disease (AD) (P < .05). Furthermore, no clear differences in TCF7L2 and MYC mRNA were found in brains with frontotemporal lobar degeneration, suggesting that altered regulation of these Wnt‐related genes could be specific to AD. Finally, mRNA levels of three neurogenesis markers were analyzed. Increased mRNA levels of dihydropyrimidinase‐like 3 were observed in AD brain, suggesting that altered Wnt pathway regulation may signify synaptic rearrangement or neurogenesis.
Toxin-Induced and Genetic Animal Models of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Hisahara Shin , Shimohama Shun
Published: December 2010

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The major pathological hallmarks of PD are the selective loss of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons and the presence of intraneuronal aggregates termed Lewy bodies (LBs), but the pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. Epidemiologically, environmental neurotoxins such as pesticides are promising candidates for causative factors of PD. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by these toxins could contribute to the progression of PD. While most cases of PD are sporadic, specific mutations in genes that cause familial forms of PD have led to provide new insights into its pathogenesis. This paper focuses on animal models of both toxin-induced and genetically determined PD that have provided significant insight for understanding this disease. We also discuss the validity, benefits, and limitations of representative models.
Establishment of Prognostic Models for Astrocytic and Oligodendroglial Brain Tumors with Standardized Quantification of Marker Gene Expression and Clinical Variables
Authors: Zhou Yi-Hong , Hess Kenneth R. , Raj Vinay R. , Yu Liping , Liu Longjian , Yung Alfred W.K. , Linskey Mark E.
Published: December 2010

Background

Prognosis models established using multiple molecular markers in cancer along with clinical variables should enable prediction of natural disease progression and residual risk faced by patients. In this study, multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses were done based on overall survival (OS) of 100 glioblastoma multiformes (GBMs, 92 events), 49 anaplastic astrocytomas (AAs, 33 events), 45 gliomas with oligodendroglial features, including anaplastic oligodendroglioma (AO, 13 events) and oligodendraglioma (O, 9 events). The modeling included two clinical variables (patient age and recurrence at the time of sample collection) and the expression variables of 13 genes selected based on their proven biological and/or prognosis functions in gliomas ( ABCG2, BMI1, MELK, MSI1, PROM1, CDK4, EGFR, MMP2, VEGFA, PAX6, PTEN, RPS9, and IGFBP2). Gene expression data was a log-transformed ratio of marker and reference ( ACTB) mRNA levels quantified using absolute real-time qRT-PCR.

Results

Age is positively associated with overall grade (4 for GBM, 3 for AA, 2_1 for AO_O), but lacks significant prognostic value in each grade. Recurrence is an unfavorable prognostic factor for AA, but lacks significant prognostic values for GBM and AO_O. Univariate models revealed opposing prognostic effects of ABCG2, MELK, BMI1, PROM1, IGFBP2, PAX6, RPS9, and MSI1 expressions for astrocytic (GBM and AA) and oligodendroglial tumors (AO_O). Multivariate models revealed independent prognostic values for the expressions of MSI1 (unfavorable) in GBM, CDK4 (unfavorable) and MMP2 (favorable) in AA, while IGFBP2 and MELK (unfavorable) in AO_O. With all 13 genes and 2 clinical variables, the model R 2 was 14.2% ( P= 0.358) for GBM, 45.2% ( P= 0.029) for AA, and 62.2% ( P= 0.008) for AO_O.

Conclusion

The study signifies the challenge in establishing a significant prognosis model for GBM. Our success in establishing prognosis models for AA and AO_O was largely based on identification of a set of genes with independent prognostic values and application of standardized gene expression quantification to allow formation of a large cohort in analysis.
Duloxetine: A Review of its Safety and Efficacy in the Management of Fibromyalgia Syndrome
Authors: Smith Howard S. , Bracken Donna , Smith Joshua M.
Published: December 2010

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain and other associated symptoms including fatigue, insomnia, cognitive/memory problems, and even psychological distress. Duloxetine is one of three FDA approved medications (the other two being milnacipran and pregabalin) for the treatment of FM. It has been demonstrated that FM patients possess low central nervous system levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. Duloxetine, which is classified pharmacologically as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), may be beneficial for FM patients by increasing these levels. This review will touch briefly upon the pathophysiology of FM, diagnostic tools, currently available therapeutic options (both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic), as well as the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic properties of duloxetine. In addition, the efficacy and safety/tolerability of duloxetine exclusively in FM will be assessed through examination of 5 randomized controlled trials, as well as pooled analyses of current data. Suggestions for a therapeutic niche for duloxetine in FM are discussed based on a presentation of the characteristics of duloxetine.
Predictors of Discharge to Home after Thrombolytic Treatment in Right Hemisphere Infarct Patients
Authors: Ruuskanen E-I. , Laihosalo M. , Kettunen Je. , Losoi H. , Nurmi L. , Koivisto A-M. , Dastidar P. , Ollikainen J. , Jehkonen M.
Published: December 2010

Background

The aim of the study was to assess the association between thrombolysis and length of hospital stay after right hemisphere (RH) infarct, and to identify which cognitive functions were predictive of discharge.

Methods

The study group consisted of 75 acute RH patients. Thirty-three patients had thrombolysis. Neuropsychologicalexaminations were performed within 11 days of stroke onset. The cognitive predictors were visual neglect, visual memory, visual search and reasoning and visuoconstructive abilities. The outcome variable was time from stroke to discharge to home.

Results

Thrombolysis emerged as a statistically significant predictor of discharge time in patients with moderate/severe stroke (NIHSS ≥5). In the total series of patients and in patients with mild stroke (NIHSS <5), thrombolysiswas not significantly associated with discharge time. Milder visuoconstructive defects shortened the hospital stay of the whole patient group and of patients with moderate/severe stroke. In all patient groups, independence in activitiesof daily living (ADL) was a significant single predictor of a shorter hospital stay. The best combination of predictors for discharge was independence in ADL in the total series of patients and in patients with mild stroke, and thrombolysis and independence in ADL in patients with moderate/severe stroke.

Conclusions

Thrombolytic treatment was a significant predictor of earlier discharge to home in patients with moderate/severe RH infarct, while cognitive functions had less predictive power.
Immigrant Success Stories in ESL Textbooks
Authors: GULLIVER TREVOR
Published: December 2010

Immigrant success stories found in English as a second language (ESL) textbooks used in government‐funded language instruction in Canada imagine Canada as a redeemer of immigrant newcomers. Through a critical discourse analysis of ESL textbooks used in Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada classes in Ontario, I identify two primary strategies of legitimation: positive self‐representation/negative other‐representation (van Dijk, 2000) and the maintenance of a low orientation to difference (Fairclough, 2003), despite a feigning of dialogicality. The stories of these immigrant newcomers follow a very similar narrative pattern that legitimates periods of economic hardship, social exclusion, and personal struggle. However, they overwhelmingly represent hard‐working immigrant newcomers as successful and appreciative of the opportunities provided to them by Canada. I conclude by arguing that ESL teachers should recognize that the diverse experiences of newcomers may not align with these repetitive imaginings of Canada as a redeemer of immigrant others.
Native Speaker Norms and China English: From the Perspective of Learners and Teachers in China
Authors: HE DEYUAN , ZHANG QUNYING
Published: December 2010

This article explores the question of whether the norms based on native speakers of English should be kept in English teaching in an era when English has become World Englishes. This is an issue that has been keenly debated in recent years, not least in the pages of TESOL Quarterly. However, China English in such debates has been given lesser attention, and the voices of English learners and teachers in China have not been adequately reported. This article serves as such an attempt in the context of China having the largest English‐learning population in the world. The present study drew comprehensive data from 984 college students and their teachers at 4 universities in different parts of China. With three cross‐validated research methods (questionnaire survey, matched‐guise technique, and focused interview), this article argues that native speaker‐based norms and models are the most desirable in China's English classroom at the tertiary level, but they could be supplemented by the well‐codified and successfully promoted features of China English.
L1 Influence on the Acquisition of L2 Collocations: Japanese ESL Users and EFL Learners Acquiring English Collocations
Authors: YAMASHITA JUNKO , JIANG NAN
Published: December 2010

This study investigated first language (L1) influence on the acquisition of second language (L2) collocations using a framework based on Kroll and Stewart (1994) and Jiang (2000), by comparing the performance on a phrase‐acceptability judgment task among native speakers of English, Japanese English as a second language (ESL) users, and Japanese English as a foreign language (EFL) learners. The test materials included both congruent collocations, whose lexical components were similar in L1 and L2, and incongruent collocations, whose lexical components differed in the two languages. EFL learners made more errors with and reacted more slowly to incongruent collocations than congruent collocations. ESL users generally performed better than EFL learners (lower error rate and faster speed), but they still made more errors on incongruent collocations than on congruent collocations. Interestingly, however, the L1 effect was not apparent on the ESL users' reaction time. The results suggested that (a) both L1 congruency and L2 exposure affect the acquisition of L2 collocations with the availability of both maximizing this acquisition; (b) it is difficult to acquire incongruent collocations even with a considerable amount of exposure to L2; and (c) once stored in memory, L2 collocations are processed independently of L1. Possible differences in acquiring congruent and incongruent collocations are discussed.
SOA from limonene: role of NO3 in its generation and degradation
Authors: Fry J. L. , Kiendler-Scharr A. , Rollins A. W. , Brauers T. , Brown S. S. , Dorn H.-P. , Dubé W. P. , Fuchs H. , Mensah A. , Rohrer F. , Tillmann R. , Wahner A. , Wooldridge P. J. , Cohen R. C.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. The formation of organic nitrates and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) were monitored during the NO3 + limonene reaction in the atmosphere simulation chamber SAPHIR at Research Center Jülich. The 24-h run began in a purged, dry, particle-free chamber and comprised two injections of limonene and oxidants, such that the first experiment measured SOA yield in the absence of seed aerosol, and the second experiment yields in the presence of 10 μg m−3 seed organic aerosol. After each injection, two separate increases in aerosol mass were observed, corresponding to sequential oxidation of the two limonene double bonds. Analysis of the measured NO3, limonene, product nitrate concentrations, and aerosol properties provides mechanistic insight and constrains rate constants, branching ratios and vapor pressures of the products. The organic nitrate yield from NO3 + limonene is ≈30%. The SOA mass yield was observed to be 25–40%. The first injection is reproduced by a kinetic model. PMF analysis of the aerosol composition suggests that much of the aerosol mass results from combined oxidation by both O3 and NO3, e.g., oxidation of NO3 + limonene products by O3. Further, later aerosol nitrate mass seems to derive from heterogeneous uptake of NO3 onto unreacted aerosol alkene.
Thin and subvisible cirrus and contrails in a subsaturated environment
Authors: Kübbeler M. , Hildebrandt M. , Meyer J. , Schiller C. , Hamburger T. , Jurkat T. , Minikin A. , Petzold A. , Rautenhaus M. , Schlager H. , Schumann U. , Voigt C. , Spichtinger P. , Gayet J.-F. , Gourbeyre C. , Krämer M.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. The frequency of occurrence of cirrus clouds and contrails, their life time, ice crystal size spectra and thus their radiative properties depend strongly on the ambient distribution of the relative humidity with respect to ice (RHice). Ice clouds do not form below a certain supersaturation and both cirrus and contrails need at least saturation conditions to persist over a longer period. Under subsaturated conditions, cirrus and contrails should dissipate. During the mid-latitude aircraft experiment CONCERT 2008 (CONtrail and Cirrus ExpeRimenT), RHice and ice crystals were measured in cirrus and contrails. Here, we present results from 2.3/1.7 h of observation in cirrus/contrails during 6 flights. Thin and subvisible cirrus with contrails embedded therein have been detected frequently in a subsaturated environment. Nevertheless, ice crystals up to radii of 50 μm and larger, but with low number densities were often observed inside the contrails as well as in the cirrus. Analysis of the meteorological situation indicates that the crystals in the contrails were entrained from the thin/subvisible cirrus clouds, which emerged in frontal systems with low updrafts. From model simulations of cirrus evaporation times it follows that such thin/subvisible cirrus can exist for time periods of a couple of hours and longer in a subsaturated environment and thus may represent a considerable part of the cirrus coverage.
A consistent data set of Antarctic ice sheet topography, cavity geometry, and global bathymetry
Authors: Timmermann R. , Le Brocq A. , Deen T. , Domack E. , Dutrieux P. , Galton-Fenzi B. , Hellmer H. , Humbert A. , Jansen D. , Jenkins A. , Lambrecht A. , Makinson K. , Niederjasper F. , Nitsche F. , Nøst O. A. , Smedsrud L. H. , Smith W. H. F.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. Sub-ice shelf circulation and freezing/melting rates in ocean general circulation models depend critically on an accurate and consistent representation of cavity geometry. Existing global or pan-Antarctic topography data sets have turned out to contain various inconsistencies and inaccuracies. The goal of this work is to compile independent regional surveys and maps into a global data set. We use the S-2004 global 1-min bathymetry as the backbone and add an improved version of the BEDMAP topography (ALBMAP bedrock topography) for an area that roughly coincides with the Antarctic continental shelf. The position of the merging line is individually chosen in different sectors in order to capture the best of both data sets. High-resolution gridded data for ice shelf topography and cavity geometry of the Amery, Fimbul, Filchner-Ronne, Larsen C and George VI Ice Shelves, and for Pine Island Glacier are carefully merged into the ambient ice and ocean topographies. Multibeam survey data for bathymetry in the former Larsen B cavity and the southeastern Bellingshausen Sea have been obtained from the data centers of Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI), British Antarctic Survey (BAS) and Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory (LDEO), gridded, and blended into the existing bathymetry map. The resulting global 1-min Refined Topography data set (RTopo-1) contains self-consistent maps for upper and lower ice surface heights, bedrock topography, and surface type (open ocean, grounded ice, floating ice, bare land surface). The data set is available in NetCDF format from the PANGAEA database at doi:10.1594/pangaea.741917.
Development cycle 2 of the Modular Earth Submodel System (MESSy2)
Authors: Jöckel P. , Kerkweg A. , Pozzer A. , Sander R. , Tost H. , Riede H. , Baumgaertner A. , Gromov S. , Kern B.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. The Modular Earth Submodel System (MESSy) is an open, multi-institutional project providing a strategy for developing comprehensive Earth System Models (ESMs) with highly flexible complexity. The first version of the MESSy infrastructure and process submodels, mainly focusing on atmospheric chemistry, has been successfully coupled to an atmospheric General Circulation Model (GCM) expanding it into an Atmospheric Chemistry GCM (AC-GCM) for nudged simulations and into a Chemistry Climate Model (CCM) for climate simulations. Here, we present the second development cycle of MESSy, which comprises (1) an improved and extended infrastructure for the basemodel independent coupling of process-submodels, (2) new, highly valuable diagnostic capabilities for the evaluation with observational data and (3) an improved atmospheric chemistry setup. With the infrastructural changes, we place the headstone for further model extensions from a CCM towards a comprehensive ESM. The new diagnostic submodels will be used for regular re-evaluations of the continuously further developing model system. The updates of the chemistry setup are briefly evaluated.
Aerodynamic roughness length estimation from very high-resolution imaging LIDAR observations over the Heihe basin in China
Authors: Colin J. , Faivre R.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. Roughness length of land surfaces is an essential variable for the parameterisation of momentum and heat exchanges. The growing interest in the estimation of the surface turbulent flux parameterisation from passive remote sensing leads to an increasing development of models, and the common use of simple semi-empirical formulations to estimate surface roughness. Over complex surface land cover, these approaches would benefit from the combined use of passive remote sensing and land surface structure measurements from Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) techniques. Following early studies based on LIDAR profile data, this paper explores the use of imaging LIDAR measurements for the estimation of the aerodynamic roughness length over a heterogeneous landscape of the Heihe river basin, a typical inland river basin in the northwest of China. The point cloud obtained from multiple flight passes over an irrigated farmland area were used to separate the land surface topography and the vegetation canopy into a Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and a Digital Surface Model (DSM) respectively. These two models were then incorporated in two approaches: (i) a strictly geometrical approach based on the calculation of the plan surface density and the frontal surface density to derive a geometrical surface roughness; (ii) a more aerodynamic approach where both the DEM and DSM are introduced in a Computational Fluid Dynamics model (CFD). The inversion of the resulting 3-D wind field leads to a fine representation of the aerodynamic surface roughness. Examples of the use of these three approaches are presented for various wind directions together with a cross-comparison of results on heterogeneous land cover and complex roughness element structures.